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U.S. Secret Service agent robbed at gunpoint during Biden's California trip

Xinhua) 09:20, June 19, 2024

LOS ANGELES, June 18 (Xinhua) -- A Secret Service agent was robbed at gunpoint during U.S. President Joe Biden's trip to Southern California over the weekend, local police said on Monday.

The Tustin Police Department reported that officers responded to a robbery call at a residential community in Tustin at around 9:36 p.m. (0436 GMT) on Saturday. Tustin is in Orange County, about 55 km southeast of Los Angeles.

"On arrival, officers discovered the victim was a member of the U.S. Secret Service and his bag was stolen at gunpoint. During the incident an officer (agent) involved shooting occurred," said the press release, adding that "The suspect(s) were not located and it is unknown at this time whether the suspect(s) were injured as a result of the incident."

The police department said while the incident is under investigation, officers have located some of the victim's belongings in the area.

Officials said that a 2004-2006 silver Infiniti FX35 or a similar vehicle was seen leaving the scene and the police department is looking for help from the public in identifying the subject.

Local news outlets reported the robbery occurred on the same night that Biden was in downtown Los Angeles for a gala fundraiser that raised around 30 million U.S. dollars for his reelection campaign.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Bookselling giant Barnes & Noble is set to become the next owner of iconic Denver bookstore Tattered Cover, ending its 53-year run as an independent business.

On Monday, June 17, the 53-year-old Denver company decided to accept Barnes & Noble's offer of up to $1.83 million in cash. The parent company of the bookstore, Bended Page, supports the agreement, which applies to Tattered Cover's four stores.

Tattered Cover has encountered financial difficulties in recent years. Under two different owners, the local bookshop chain has avoided bankruptcy for many years. It filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October last year, closing three stores and laying off around 30 workers.

"In addition to the best purchase price, the Purchaser's offer provided the best continuity of operations for our customers, staff, landlords, and community," a Tattered Cover spokesperson said in an email. "Other bids did not contemplate the continuation of our operations at all existing locations."

The agreement allows Tattered Cover to maintain its name, carry on with shop events, and employ nearly all its current staff. The 53-year-old company's current store leases will transfer ownership and continue operations.

The US Bankruptcy Court must approve Barnes & Noble's proposed acquisition, and that approval must happen by the end of July. According to a Tattered Cover representative, while it is quite unlikely, the company might receive higher bids.

Furthermore, Barnes & Noble's presence in Denver would be reinstated with the purchase of Tattered Cover. It once had a store at the 16th Street Mall but closed in 2015. Since then, the Barnes & Noble nearest location to Denver has been located on Colorado Boulevard in Glendale.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A river in the foothills of the Himalayas separates tigers and farmers and nurtures both wildlife and agriculture. But now that the river is drying up, conflicts between the two are increasing, endangering the habitat of both. River scientist Kshitiz Gautam is looking for ways to restore the balance between man and nature.

For weeks, Ph.D.-candidate Kshitiz Gautam steered his motorbike over the stony surface along the clear blue waters of the Karnali River in Nepal. Armed with a bright green digital measuring rod, he was scouring walls, trees and stones for signs of earlier water level markings left there by the floods.

The Karnali River splits into two branches, one of them dividing a national park from the farm lands. Gautam collects data about the river to understand why this particular river inlet is drying out while another, outside the park, is expanding. The falling water level is posing a serious threat to the local population and animals alike. Gautam's research is part of a project called "Save the tiger, the grasslands, the water."

Dissolving barrier

The riverbank soil is packed with nutrients and is particularly suitable for growing crops. During the dry season, the water is so low that tigers can easily make their way across from the national park towards the crop fields. Confrontations with tigers are becoming a growing concern, as Gautam himself witnessed.

"I had a close encounter with one when I was doing fieldwork in 2022. I was going about my business when suddenly people started shouting. A tiger had attacked a cow and killed it not far from where I was standing," he said. The tigers are not just targeting cows; attacks on people are also becoming more common.

The river also plays an important role in nature conservation. It carries nutrients from the Himalayas which boost grass growth along its banks. The grasses are eaten by deer, which in turn feature on the tigers' menu. Without the river to sustain it, the food chain is in danger of collapsing. There are some 4,000 tigers left in the world, and Bardiya National Park in Nepal is one of their most important habitats.

The river in numbers

To find out what makes the water level drop, Gautam is devising a computer model of the river. He uses the model to investigate possible causes, such as huge boulders transported from the Himalayas blocking the flow, climate change and human intervention.

"At the nearby Koshi River, for instance, we found that dams for hydroelectric power stations are blocking sediment transport and that means habitat downstream is being deprived of important nutrients," Gautam said.

The research is first and foremost practical. Gautam said, "I am not doing fundamental research. This is about practical solutions for the local population to work with."

Gautam was able to advise the local park rangers, for example. "They wanted to dredge the drying inlet to one meter, but this would not have been enough. With my data I could advise them how much dredging was necessary so water would flow again in the branch," he explained.

To create his model, Gautam needed data on water levels and sediment types. As historical records were unavailable, Gautam turned to the river itself to get the information.

This wasn't Gautam's first time in Nepal. He grew up not fifty kilometers from the river.

"That Ph.D. vacancy felt tailor-made for me," he laughs. Apart from knowledge about the area, Gautam also had the requisite academic credentials. He did his master's in hydroinformatics and studied the effect of river morphology on ecology.

"Human interventions, such as hydroelectric power stations, must co-exist with nature with the least disturbance to the natural balance," he said. That is what he tries to achieve on the Nepalese river.

On his return to Nepal, Gautam found that the river had changed considerably: "Years ago we used a ferry to get across, but now you can just wade through."

While preparing for the research from his desk in the Netherlands, Gautam had decided he would take depth measurements and river sediment samples every five kilometers. However, the big boulders made sampling the river bed a challenge. Photographs proved to be the solution, but how to estimate the size of the boulders from the pictures? A quick rummage through his pockets produced the perfect measuring tool.

"I used my OV chip card for scale," Gautam said.

Convincing the locals

The reception of the GPS signal was not as straightforward as it had seemed either. To precisely measure the water level marking, the GPS on top of the green rod requires a strong communication signal with the antenna, which needed a high vantage point. The bridge over the river turned out to be too low.

"The tallest place we could find was a four-story house," Gautam said. He set out to persuade the owners to let him place his antenna on the roof.

"In Nepal, the best way to get this done is first making a friendly relationship. If you gain trust first, it makes it easier to request," he said. Gautam visited the family a few times, and in the end, permission was granted.

Gautam's knowledge of the Nepalese language, nature and culture proved to be invaluable during his fieldwork. "Studying and working in Nepal, I learned to use limited resources and equipment that are at hand. This, in combination with measuring equipment at TU Delft, made the fieldwork a success."

And now, the installed radar water level sensor allows him to gauge the local water distribution from his desk in the Netherlands as it happens.

"I'm proud to have this knowledge and can use it to help my community and make it better," Gautam said.
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Chad Cogburn, of the Nashville Zoo, holds a Nashville crayfish during an annual census of the endangered species on Wednesday, June 11, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list, but some biologists argue it still needs protection because its range is so limited. Credit: AP photo by Kristin M. Hall

Dale McGinnity has been turning over rocks in Mill Creek to study the endangered Nashville crayfish for a decade. He hopes to learn whether this little crustacean that makes its home mainly in the urbanized area around its namesake city is being harmed by all the development surrounding it. The results are encouraging.

"Things are looking good so far," said McGinnity, who works at the Nashville Zoo as curator of ectotherms, or cold-blooded creatures. "It's been a really nice, maybe steady or slightly increasing population over those 10 years."

But that good news is also potentially bad news. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list in 2019, and that proposal is still being considered. A healthy and robust population could add to the pressure to remove it. But some biologists argue the Nashville crayfish still needs protection because species with very small ranges are more vulnerable to extinction, for a variety of reasons.

McGinnity credits the current healthy population to recent changes to stormwater regulations. Runoff from parking lots, buildings and other hard surfaces now drains to bioretention areas, where it is slowly reabsorbed into the ground.

"The old guidelines, it was just all a whole bunch of impervious surfaces that ran to the storm drains that went right to the creek. So that means there's huge flooding. There's huge amounts of oil and other toxins that get into the water."

Chad Cogburn, of the Nashville Zoo, measures and records a crayfish during an annual census of the Nashville crayfish, an endangered species, on Wednesday, June 11, 2024 in Nashville, Tenn. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list, but some biologists argue it still needs protection because its range is so limited. Credit: AP photo/Travis Loller

On Tuesday, McGinnity and a crew from the zoo were at Mill Creek for their annual population survey. Sycamores and maple trees shaded the shallow, rippling water filled with the flat limestone rocks that crayfish love to hide under. It did not take long before the group began spotting them.

One of the things that makes the Nashville crayfish unique, McGinnity said, is that they will hang out in open areas in broad daylight during the summer months. Most crayfishalso called crawfish or crawdads, depending on the regionare primarily active at night. The behavior seems as though it would make them vulnerable to predators, and why they do it is one of many mysteries scientists have yet to study, he said.

The Nashville crayfish are also unusually sociable, he said, noting that he has found upwards of 60 together under a single rock.

Chad Cogburn, of the Nashville Zoo, holds a Nashville crayfish during an annual census of the endangered species on Wednesday, June 11, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list, but some biologists argue it still needs protection because its range is so limited. Credit: AP photo/Travis Loller

Several crayfish are captured in the bottom of a bucket during an annual census of the Nashville crayfish, an endangered species, on Wednesday, June 11, 2024 in Nashville, Tenn. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list, but some biologists argue it still needs protection because its range is so limited. Credit: AP photo/Travis Loller

"There's still a lot to be learned about Nashville crayfish, and actually all crayfish," McGinnity said. There's no better place to study them than Tennessee, or possibly Alabama. The two states vie for the title of the most crayfish diversity in the world. Both states have more than 100 species, with new ones still being discovered and described, he said.

Parker Hildreth, a biologist with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, has recently been using genetic testing to help map that diversity. Hildreth said he grew up playing with crayfish in a Tennessee creek and recently discovered that those same crayfish he played with may be an undescribed species.

Asked why the public should care about crayfish, Hildreth offered two thoughts.

"Aquatic organisms are the canary in the coal mine for water quality. So if you're seeing impacts to our native species, then the same things that are affecting aquatic life can easily affect human life," he said. The second reason is cultural and goes back to his childhood.

"I think that's intrinsic to most Tennesseans, that we grew up playing in a creek," he said. "And I wouldn't like to live in a world where I wasn't able to do that."

 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Monastery of Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil, which is often overlooked by pilgrims on a nearby route. Credit: JanCeuleers/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

European tourism is getting a makeover to strengthen remote communities with the help of EU-funded researchers.

The monastery of San Estevo de Ribas de Sil in northwestern Spain is located within 20 kilometers of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, but for Martin Lopez Nores the two places felt worlds apart. And that gave him an idea.

In 2019 Lopez Nores, a professor in the Department of Telematics Engineering of the University of Vigo in Spain, attended an event at the 800-year-old monastery with researchers and local representatives. The participants discussed how best to revitalize rural economies.

Slow down

While the Camino de Santiago has long been a popular pilgrim route to the holy site where St James the Apostle is believed to be buried, the monasterydeemed one of the most spectacular heritage spots in the Galicia region of Spainwas often overlooked by tourists.

"We were meeting in a jewel of a locationa remarkable place that goes unnoticed by thousands of pilgrims walking nearby," said Lopez Nores. "We realized we needed to make it more visible, to draw people to it, to encourage people on the pilgrim route to get to know the area they are passing through, not just focus on getting to the next point in their guide."

He led a project that received EU funding to help spearhead a new form of tourism across Europea kind that moves away from the hordes of international visitors who fill countless European cities and towns for most of the year.

In doing so, Lopez Nores took to heart a sentiment expressed by one of the 20th century's greatest wanderers, the late British writer and Philhellene Patrick Leigh Fermor. In 1966, Leigh Fermor commented on the emergence in Greece of mass tourism by writing that it "destroys the object of its love."

Lopez Nores championed a different approach called "slow tourism," which encourages visitors to take time to immerse themselves in their surroundings.

"Mass tourism consumes places, whereas cultural tourism is about creating meaningful connections with people and places," he said. "It's a non-destructive way of tourism that gives benefits to everyone and somehow makes your mind a little bit richer, more interesting."

Spread the wealth

The many people who travel the Camino de Santiago spend considerable amounts of moneymore than 300 million in 2019. But with few tourists straying from the path itself, the economic benefits are relatively narrow.

The phenomenon occurs across culturally rich Europe and inspired a group of Spanish and Portuguese researchersincluding Lopez Noresto join forces in an effort to spread the benefits of pilgrimages. Called rurALLURE, their project ran for three years until the end of 2023.

The team's goal was to enhance the appeal of "cultural tourism" in countries ranging from Spain to Norway and ensure that tourism revenue goes beyond the main trails.

For the Camino de Santiago, the researchers created a web portal and an app to highlight cultural points of interest close to the route. These include museums, places of natural beauty and bars and restaurants with local foods and drinks such as Ribeira wines. A total of 7 362 such sites were mapped in this way by the project.

Also available are written and audio guide material, local voices and histories, as well as thematically grouped information on, for example, nature spots and regional traditions.

Other pilgrimages covered by rurALLURE included routes to Italy's capital Rome, paths known as the Saint Olav Ways leading to Trondheim in Norway and the Way of Mary, which traverses central Europe to Csiksomlyo in Romania.

New mindset

The researchers went beyond technology in a bid to foster a change in the mindset of businesses, cultural institutions and other organizations linked to the various routes.

A sense of competition, which at one time in some places in Europe even led to road signs to rival tourist spots being destroyed, has been replaced with a spirit of collaboration, according to Lopez Nores.

A network of more than 100 members around Europe now coordinates efforts, believing they can attract visitors by working together and in turn raising the popularity of pilgrim routes as a whole. Best practicesplus insights into what hasn't worked so wellare freely available.

For instance, the northern Portuguese town of Vila do Conde, long accustomed to being shunned by tourists who flew to nearby Porto to make their way north to Santiago de Compostellathe culmination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routehas reaped the benefits, according to Lopez Nores.

The rurALLURE portal and app now feature the towncomplete with multi-media contentin a guide to the literary heritage of the Camino de Santiago. As a result, the area has flourished as a destination for pilgrims and literature lovers alike.

"This cooperation strengthens our cultural community and promotes the exchange of knowledge and resources, benefitting everyone," said Ivone Teixeira, coordinator of the Vila do Conde Museum.

Although the impact of the rurALLURE app is difficult to measure in terms of overall tourist numbers, it is clearly making a difference for specific sites.

The Otero Pedrayo Foundation in the Galician village of Amoeiro, for instance, has seen a remarkable increase in visitor numbers as a result of featuring in rurALLURE's sites around the Silver Waythe longest but least traveled of the Caminos de Santiago.

Drop-in visitors to the house of this major personality of Galician culture have increased from just a few to nearly 200 per year.

Peripheral appeals

Peripheral communities in Europe were at the heart of another EU-funded tourism project called INCULTUM. An acronym for innovative cultural tourism, the project wrapped up in April 2024 after three years.

The researchers chose 10 pilot sites in nine countries ranging from Ireland to Slovakia. The sites are in remote areas that don't feature in traditional tourist guides.

"We wanted to highlight the values and potential of cultural heritage that has been denied or hidden," said Jose Maria Martin Civantos, professor in the Department of Medieval History at the University of Granada in Spain and the project coordinator. "We are using tourism as a tool, not an objective."

In Ireland, the pilot featured a grassroots heritage initiative in which local groups carry out field surveys of historic graveyards and record oral histories.

The initiative, called Historic Graves, expanded under INCULTUM to include the deaths that resulted from the Great Famine of 18451852, when around 1 million people died.

At this time, more than 1 million people also emigrated from Ireland. Many of their descendants in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are tracing their ancestry through Historic Graves, with some traveling to Ireland as part of the process.

In Slovakia, INCULTUM included an abandoned mining district in the central area of Banska Bystrica. The site is a source of industrial heritage as local schools and other groups work together to recover community memories.

In the works is an interactive digital map featuring "mining treasures" that tourists will be able to visit.

As it happens, this area also features in the rurALLURE digital maps because it lies on the Slovak section of the Way of Mary.

Better balance

Both projects offer a roadmap for Europe as it seeks to spread the economic benefits and ease the environmental costs of tourism.

For Martin Civantos, Europe must seek to revive rural areas in a way that is true to their past while reimagining their future. He said such an approach serves both tourists and local communities over the long run.

"It means you are visiting a place, but you're not having a negative impact on the environment or community," said Martin Civantos. "In fact, you are helping the community to maintain its values and heritage and giving something positive back."
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The only howl I heard on a recent walk across the Garron plateau in the Glens of Antrim, Northern Ireland, was from a bitter, biting wind. But 300 years ago, the howls would most definitely have been lupine: This place was home to one of the last wolves in what is now the UK. The species clung on in other parts of Ireland until the late 18th century.

Lynx and bears probably disappeared from both islands much earlier, despite debates over the potential presence of lynx in early modern Scottish texts.

In Ireland, the evidence for lynx rests on a single bone from almost 9,000 years ago. But much more recently than this, wolves did not simply vanish from our landswe got rid of them. We did so less because our ancestors read too many fairy tales, and more because of a confluence of political and economic factors.

As a political ecologist, I'm fascinated by how environmental change is strongly shaped by power dynamics and economic forces. This political ecology helps us understand our relationships with large carnivores across these islandspast, present and, potentially, future.

To investigate what's really behind the controversy that surrounds large carnivore reintroductions to Britain and Ireland, I spoke to people on the frontline of this debatethe farmers and conservationistsfor my new report. Their answers were illuminating.

An easy assumption to make is that farmers think lynx and wolves would pose a threat to their livestock, especially sheepbut the conflict of interests is more nuanced. There are issues about everything from who might pay for the upkeep of any guard dogs or electric fencing, to which rural landscapes are considered wild enough for large carnivore reintroductions.

To explore different perspectives on this, including options for successfully managing the reintroduction process to minimize the risks to livestock, I interviewed all of the five main farming unions across both nations, as well as two key livestock organizations. For balance, I asked the same questions of three rewilding organizations too.

Several farmers outlined why the biggest issue in predator-proofing their farming system would be the additional labor involved. Another rewilding expert emphasized the potential of tourism, provided there were mechanisms in place to ensure these benefits were shared with livestock owners.

A confluence of political and economic factors are key to understanding the controversies surrounding the potential return of wolves to Britain and Ireland, alongside that smaller, solitary and less polarizing candidate for reintroduction, the lynx.

Ecological reasons may be cited as the main rationale for reintroducing either species, especially to control deer and encourage nature restoration. But it is issues of power and money that will largely dictate whether these proposals become reality, including current consultations on lynx reintroductions in England and Scotland.

Hanson explains why the return of wolves to Switzerland has caused conflict, and reflects on other reintroduction projects from the Netherlands to the US.

Three steps towards compromise

First, get perspective. The political and economic uncertainty of post-Brexit Britain and Europe, including priorities and funding of agri-environmental schemes, occupied much of the discussions for my report. So too did a wariness among farmers of the roles of both governments and conservation charities in any reintroduction process. As National Farmers' Union Cymru's Hedd Pugh noted, "Whoever wants to reintroduce these species will promise the world but  down the line  the people who made the promises will have moved on, and the politicians will have changed too."

Second, management. There is a suite of tools available to manage coexistence between large carnivore conservation and livestock farming, including deterrence (such as fences, livestock guarding animals or shepherding), finance (compensation and insurance schemes), force (including removing or culling problem animals), and enterprise (including tourism and certification) options.

My report's five cases studies, from western Europe and North America, explore these approaches in detail. These methods can work, but their implementation is often complex, contested and costly. Unsurprisingly, there was limited enthusiasm for them among British and Irish farmers. Logistical, ethical and economic concerns were all discussed.

The need for governance was the third element of our discussions, and the only one where a sliver of common ground between farmers and rewilders emerged. This included the desire for guidelines that outline best practice for reintroductions, as well as for consultations with farmers and landowners.

Multi-perspective working groups, such as Lynx to Scotland's lynx focus group, were cited as examples of effective governance. However, as Alastair Driver, director of the conservation charity Rewilding Britain, pointed out: "If we are to restore nature and tackle climate change at the level we need to, we can't please everyone."

In Ireland, wolves were once seen as barriers to the Cromwellian settlement of parts of the island. Earlier in Britain, they were definitely perceived as threats to royal hunting, and probably to monastic wool interests. Either way, wolves were political animalscontested symbols of contested visions for the land. They still are.

The wolves may be long gone from the Glens of Antrim and similar places across Britain and Ireland. But political animalsof the human varietyremain, as do the incessant push and pull of economic forces. Much more than ecology alone, this will define whether wolves and lynx return to such places in the coming decades, just as it defined their departure from them.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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This NASA Hubble Space Telescope features the galaxy NGC 1546. Credit: NASA, ESA, STScI, David Thilker (JHU)

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has taken its first new images since changing to an alternate operating mode that uses one gyro.

The spacecraft returned to science operations June 14 after being offline for several weeks due to an issue with one of its gyroscopes (gyros), which help control and orient the telescope.

This new image features NGC 1546, a nearby galaxy in the constellation Dorado. The galaxy's orientation gives us a good view of dust lanes from slightly above and backlit by the galaxy's core. This dust absorbs light from the core, reddening it and making the dust appear rusty-brown.

The core itself glows brightly in a yellowish light indicating an older population of stars. Brilliant-blue regions of active star formation sparkle through the dust. Several background galaxies also are visible, including an edge-on spiral just to the left of NGC 1546.

Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3 captured the image as part of a joint observing program between Hubble and NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. The program also uses data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array, allowing scientists to obtain a highly detailed, multiwavelength view of how stars form and evolve.

The image represents one of the first observations taken with Hubble since transitioning to the new pointing mode, enabling more consistent science operations. The NASA team expects that Hubble can do most of its science observations in this new mode, continuing its groundbreaking observations of the cosmos.

"Hubble's new image of a spectacular galaxy demonstrates the full success of our new, more stable pointing mode for the telescope," said Dr. Jennifer Wiseman, senior project scientist for Hubble at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.

"We're poised now for many years of discovery ahead, and we'll be looking at everything from our solar system to exoplanets to distant galaxies. Hubble plays a powerful role in NASA's astronomical toolkit."

Launched in 1990, Hubble has been observing the universe for more than three decades, recently celebrating its 34th anniversary.

Provided by NASA
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

For roughly 80 years, the United States has managed the threat of nuclear terrorism through nonproliferation treaties, agency programs, intelligence activities, international monitoring support and more, withstanding the Cold War, the fall of the Soviet Union, and 9/11.

A National Academies committee led by Northeastern University's Stephen Flynn wants to ensure the U.S. remains prepared.

"The issue of nuclear terrorism remains very much a real one, there are enormous stakes involved and the risks are high, but the issue has been falling off the radar screen of the American public over the last 15 years, and the skill set of people involved in managing it is aging out," says Flynn, professor of political science and founding director of the Global Resilience Institute at Northeastern.

"We really need to keep our eye on the ball. It was quite timely for Congress to call for an assessment of this risk and provide recommendations for staying on top of this issue."

In the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, Congress mandated the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Agency to work with the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine to assess the current state of nuclear terrorism and nuclear weapons and materials and advise the government on how to handle such issues.

Flynn, an expert on national and homeland security, was appointed chair of the committee in 2022. The committee released its final report on Tuesday.

The report finds that a lot has changed since the issue of nuclear terrorism was forefront in Americans' minds following 9/11 and the buildup to the Iraq War.

"We had a war on terror after 9/11, but that didn't succeed in eliminating the terrorism threat," Flynn says. "Terrorism continues to morph."

The outbreak of the Israel-Hamas War, which occurred as the committee finalized its report, demonstrates this morphing of terrorism.

The involvement of Hezbollah as a proxy of Iran, and the involvement of Hamasboth groups are designated terrorist groups by the U.S. State Departmenthighlight a world where non-states and nuclear-seeking states collaborate in warfare, Flynn says.

"The designation between non-state vs. state actors is blurry," Flynn says. "The assessment reveals we have to be focused on where those two things may overlap."

Also "blurring" is the line between domestic terrorism and international terrorism, Flynn says.

"Particularly when you look on the far right, international terror groups are recruiting Americans into these organizations, and Americans are reaching out to extremist organizations that have terrorism elements," Flynn says.

The nuclear world continues to morph as well.

There are now eight countries that have announced successful nuclear detonations: The United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, China, India, Pakistan and North Korea. Israel is also generally considered to have nuclear weapons but has never announced it.

But as opposed to the two rival nuclear superpowersRussia and the United Statesthat existed during the Cold War, a "triad" now exists, with China added to the rivalry.

"It's hard to reach arms control agreements as a two-way relationship," Flynn says. "It's almost impossible to do as a triad."

Moreover, although Russia and the United States were rivals throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Flynn says they shared the goal of limiting the supply of nuclear weapons. The demand for nuclear weapons, however, and nuclear material for civil purposes, has continued to grow. Simultaneously, there are far fewer means for managing that growth.

"We're in a world right now where most of the control of the programs in place to manage supply and control of nuclear weapons are basically unraveling," Flynn says.

Again, recent events highlight this changing dynamic.

In May 2018, President Donald Trump withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, Flynn notes. Then there is Russia: Flynn called the country's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine a "seismic event."

"A nuclear power (Russia) invading a former nuclear power (Ukraine) who gave up its weapons with the promise that not having nuclear weapons would not put them at the mercy of another nuclear power," Flynn says.

He further notes that Russian President Vladimir Putin is targeting civilian nuclear infrastructure and "is really pushing the envelope of the idea that nukes are something you leverage to advance your interests."

It's also not just the supply of and demand for nuclear weapons that concerned the committee. The civilian nuclear sector is enjoying a "revolution," Flynn says, as an alternative to fossil fuel-based power generation.

But that's not happening with the United States providing most of the oversight.

"Many new nuclear plants are going to places they've not gone before and this is not happening with the US setting and enforcing the rules, but being led by the Chinese and Russians with fewer security controls in place," Flynn says. "Most of the materials that can be used to produce a 'dirty bomb' have always been challenging to control, and now there are more available. Even without state actor complicity, there is more risk that terrorist groups can get their hands on these materials."

Finally, there is the question of how the United States would react to a nuclear explosion or if a so-called "dirty bomb" were detonated on the US homeland.

In an era of "fake news" and general distrust of government, would anyone even listen to local or national leaders should they warn about and try to direct civilians on what to do during a nuclear event?

"In the current context, post-COVID, there is so little trust in federal government messaging that there is the concern that managing the incident and getting life-saving information to the public is going to be enormously challenging," Flynn says.

Moreover, it is the local municipality that will be providing the first responders to a nuclear incident. How many of them are prepared?

"The country relies on local capability to manage response to emergencies, and if it's a nuclear terrorist attack there's a lot to worry about," Flynn says.

So for all these reasonseach of which has a chapter in the reportthe United States has a lot of challenges.

But Flynn notes there is some hope.

"One of the big messages is as a nation we have invested a lot of effort into managing this risk over the years, and that has beenknock on wood herea reason a nuclear incident hasn't happened," Flynn says. "Let's not throw the baby out with the bathwaterwe've got a lot of capability, let's stay on top of it."

How can we do so?

The committee does not provide a specific budget figure, but recommends that Congress provide continued and increased funding for nuclear-deterrent activities.

The report also recommends better coordination among the various government agenciesfor example, beyond the Department of Defense, Flynn mentions the Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Energy, and morethat each contribute to protecting the United States from a nuclear incident.

Finally, the report recommends that these agencies adopt new technology and tools to mitigate the nuclear terrorism threat.

"We're not saying to the government that this is something they've neglected," Flynn says. But Congress has to continue its support for it, and we have to continue to do our due diligence."

"There is a lot of knowledge we have about managing the nuclear risk, as we have been doing it for decades, but there are also new tools and there's a lot of ways to update our response from the Cold War days," Flynn continues.

"This is something we should be worried about.  But take a deep breath, we have been managing this risk since the dawn of the nuclear age, so let's draw on that experience, and there are new technologies and ways we can deal with this risk that are better aligned to the world we are living in."

This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu.
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East Palestine Train Accident. Credit: IOP Publishing

A new study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters reveals that the environmental impact of the February 3, 2023, Norfolk Southern train accident in East Palestine, Ohio covered a very large geographical area. Inorganic pollutants released due to the accident were found in wet weather downfall (wet deposition) from the Midwest through the Northeast, reaching as far as southern Canada and North Carolina.

The findings are significant as many inorganic pollutants in rain and snow have chemical effects on aquatic flora and fauna. According to the paper, these pollutants spread over at least portions of 16 states and an area of 1.4 million square kilometers.

Researchers from the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison were able to estimate the spatial extent and chemical elements deposited resulting from the incident by using precipitation chemistry measurements routinely collected by the National Atmospheric Deposition Programs (NADP) National Trends Network (NTN), which makes routine wet weather measurements at 260 sites across North America.

The train accident and the subsequent fire resulted in the release of many different pollutants into the atmosphere over several days, which the NADP researchers were able to track in precipitation.

David Gay, lead researcher and coordinator of the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP), which has been monitoring pollution deposited across North America in precipitation for over 40 years, says, "Our measurements not only show the expected high chloride concentrations, but also the vast geographical area they covered.

"However, even more surprising are the unexpectedly high pH levels (more basic) and exceptionally elevated alkali and alkaline earth metals, exceeding the 99th percentiles of the last ten years of measurements. All of these pollutants are important in the environment because their accumulation has an impact on the Earth's aquatic and terrestrial environments in many ways."

"This study demonstrates the important role of a nationwide network for routine precipitation monitoring," says Dr. Gay. "Our observations allowed us to determine the regional atmospheric impact from the accident and subsequent response activities."

While the current NADP networks do not quantify organic compounds that might be more specific tracers of the train cargo, the documented widespread impacts on precipitation suggest a significant amount of chemical pollution falling to Earth's surface as a result of the accident.
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This satellite image of Alma Bridge Road is overalid with newt roadkill observation and death hot spots between 2018-2019. The map shows a proposed plan to elevate roads to increase survivorship. Blue tones represent lower rates of death, while pink represents highest rates of death. Credit: UC Davis Road Ecology Center

More than 48,000 deer, thousands of Pacific newts, close to 100 mountain lions and many thousands of other animals are killed each year by vehicles on California roads, according to the 2024 "roadkill report" from the University of California, Davis' Road Ecology Center.

The 11th annual report, "Roadkill, A Preventable Disaster," notes that about more than twice as many deer die from vehicle collisions each year in California than from hunting. Collisions are responsible for more than 10% of deer deaths each year, as the state's total deer population has been dropping for decades. The report said roadkill may be partly responsible for their overall decline.

Roadkill is also expensive. Wildlife-vehicle collisions, or WVCs, cost California more than $200 million every year. Yet those costs are slightly lower in recent years than previous yearsin part because of the decline in mule deer, the most frequently hit large animal.

"Anytime you get a reduction in roadkill, people think it's a good thing," said Fraser Shilling, director of the UC Davis Road Ecology Center, a program of the Institute of Transportation Studies. "But it's often not. In this case, it's because there are fewer deer and other animals to hit."

Another dramatic loss is occurring among California newts and rough-skinned newts on Alma Bridge Road in Santa Clara County. There, the largest known population of these newts is being killed by the thousands every winter as they attempt to cross the road from their forest floor home to Lexington Reservoir to reproduce. About 5,000 newts are killed each year on this road.

"Roadkill is a preventable natural disaster," said Shilling. "When a road is flooded, or there's a landslide, state and local agencies act immediately to get the road fixed and reopened. That shows transportation agencies can move fast in a natural disaster. The crashing newt population is a natural disaster and deserves the same kind of rapid response."

The Road Ecology Center has worked in the past with scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey and Santa Clara County to find ways to prevent further decline of the newt populations.

The report describes a potential solution proposed by the county that could elevate Alma Bridge Road in three sections to prevent about 70% of the newt deaths. Additional approaches could include reducing traffic spilling over from Highway 17, moving traffic away from hot spots, or closing the road to nonresidential traffic during newt-crossing times (typically when it rains).

This map reflects the annual density of wildlife-vehicle collisions involving large mammals on California highways. Credit: UC Davis Road Ecology Center

"Our worst fears that this delicate newt population is spiraling toward extinction are sadly becoming a reality," said Sofia Prado-Irwin, a staff scientist at the Center for Biological Diversity.

"Newts, pumas and other wildlife desperately need more crossings and wildlife-friendly development before it's too late. Improving wildlife connectivity will lead to safe coexistence, increased climate resilience and a world where California's wonderful biodiversity can continue to thrive."

Roadkill hot spots

Drawing from nearly 53,000 traffic incidents involving wildlife, 162,000 carcass observations reported to the California Roadkill Observation System, or CROS, and other roadkill reporting systems between 2009 and 2023, the report identified 627 roadkill hot spots that could benefit from wildlife crossings and fencing.

The state's top hot spots for roadkillwhere the rate and costs of wildlife-vehicle collisions are highestconsistently include:

I-680 in Contra Costa and Alameda counties

I-280 on the San Francisco Peninsula

U.S. 101 in Marin County

U.S. 50 in El Dorado County

S.R. 17 in Santa Cruz County

S.R. 49 in Placer and Nevada counties

Mountain lions and momentum

A minimum of 613 mountain lions were reported killed by vehicles between 2016 and 2023. Actual figures are likely higher, as there is no requirement to report vehicle collisions involving mountain lions.

Mountain lions in Southern California are expected to benefit from the world's biggest wildlife crossing, the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, when it opens in 2026.

Shilling said such efforts have opened the door to broader public and state support for wildlife crossings. He applauded recent state efforts, such as the Safe Roads and Wildlife Protection Act, for restoring wildlife movement.

"We highlight and give kudos for the dramatic increase in wildlife fencing and crossing planning that the state has engaged in the last two years," the report states. "Fencing remains the only way to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions at the state scale."

More information: Hotspots Report 2024: Roadkill, a Preventable Natural Disaster. roadecology.ucdavis.edu/resour  ble-natural-disaster
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Waves topping over the sea wall in Blackpool. Credit: Sally Brown

Researchers at the University of Southampton have conducted the most detailed spatial analysis to date of storm surges along the coast of the UK and Ireland.

The oceanographers found coastlines in the north of the Irish Sea experience the longest and largest surges, while those occurring around the southwest coast of England have the smallest geographical footprint and last the shortest amount of time.

Across all coastlines investigated, and over a period stretching four decades, the winter seasons of 1989/90 and 2013/14 stood out as having the highest number and most severe storm surge events.

The study findings are published in the June edition of the journal Weather and Climate Extremes.

A storm surge is an abnormal rise in seawater level during a storm, measured as above that of the normal tide height for the area. The surge is caused by wind pushing water onshore and is influenced by a storm's size, speed and where it tracks in relation to the coast.

The storm surge footprint is the extent of simultaneous flooding along a stretch of coastline, and influences the damage associated with coastal flooding.

"Storm surges are the most important driver of flooding in many coastal areas," explains Ivan Haigh a Professor at the University of Southampton and co-author of the study.

"If we can understand how the differing characteristics of storms affect surges in many different coastal locations, we can more accurately predict the impact they will have on those localities, how best to counter the effects and how they may increase with climate change. Our research will help improve the accuracy of statistical models used to make these predictions."

The research, which also involved scientists in Spain, the U.S. and The Netherlands, examines data on storm surges recorded between 1980 and 2017.

The team identified 270 extreme storm surge events over the study period, based on their duration, footprint size, severity and how frequently a similar event may reoccur. From this they classified eight distinct surge footprint types and linked them to the characteristics of the storms which caused them.

In the course of their research, they found the most extreme surge event was in the winter of 1989/90caused by a storm on 26 February 1990 which affected sea levels along the north, east and west coasts. Remembered for extreme flooding in the towns of Towyn and Clwyd in Wales, the event forced five thousand people to be evacuated from their homes and businesses.

The stormiest season in the study period was the winter of 2013/14, which contained the most frequent severe flooding events. In total there were 13 flooding episodes, compared with five in 1989/90. This includes the storm surge of 5 December 2013, which saw some 36 flood warnings in East Anglia and resulted in the loss of properties along the coasts of Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex.

Lead author of the study, Dr. Paula Camus of the University of Southampton and Universidad de Cantabria (Spain), said, "It is crucial we learn lessons from past storm surges in order to help inform our response to future coastal flood risk. Changes to our climate will likely mean more frequent and extreme events, so having accurate data on which to base decisions about infrastructure and emergency response is crucial. We hope our study can better inform the assessment of risk and impacts."

The researchers acknowledge that their study doesn't take into account astronomical influence on the height of tides, but say this can be incorporated in the future. They also say their method could be adapted and applied to any coastal region globally.

A timeline of historic coastal flooding events in the UK and other data can be found here.

More information: Paula Camus et al, Tracking the spatial footprints of extreme storm surges around the coastline of the UK and Ireland, Weather and Climate Extremes (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.wace.2024.100662
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The Acropolis of Athens, the rocky hill in the Greek capital that is home to the iconic Parthenon temple, is one of the world's most visited and well-known archaeological sitesbut new insights about it are still emerging.

A new publication in the American Journal of Archaeology , by Merle Langdon (University of Tennessee) and me, tells a historical detective story of a lost temple on the site of the Parthenon. It all began with the discovery of ancient graffiti. The shepherd's graffiti The tiny work was found on a marble rock outcrop at Vari, 20km southeast of Athens. It is part of a larger group of more than 2,000 graffiti made by shepherds and goatherds, discovered and studied by Merle Langdon in recent years. They feature text as well as drawings that include ships, horses, and erotic scenes. They all date to the sixth century BCE. The newly discovered work is a rough rock-cut drawing of a building. Though the details of the drawing are not fully understood, it can be identified as a temple due to the columns and steps. Snaking around the building there is a Greek inscription reading To Hekatompedon  Mikonos (The 100-foot building  of Mikon). Mikon is not otherwise known, but he was most likely a shepherd who made the graffito while grazing his flocks. The version of the Greek alphabet used is very ancient, making it clear that the drawing was made as early as the 6th century BCE. Of great archaeological significance is the inscription's word Hekatompedon, a Greek name meaning "100-footer," referring to a structure of enormous size. The term is known to be the official ancient name of the famous temple dedicated to the Greek goddess Athenalater known as the Parthenon.

It is likely that Mikon wanted to depict a building on the Acropolis of Athens. However, because the alphabet he used can be firmly dated to the 6th century BCE, the drawing must be at least 50 years older than the Parthenon, which was begun around 450 BCE.

A lost Greek temple

The Parthenon may be a very ancient temple, but it was not the first. It has long been thought that even older temples formerly stood on the Acropolisthough archaeologists have fiercely debated their dates, appearance, and exact locations on the hill. There is also a historical calamity that impedes our understanding: in 480 BCE, during the Greek-Persian wars, a Persian army arrived in Athens and destroyed all the buildings that then stood on the Acropolis.

In fact, the Acropolis Museum in Athens is home to large broken sculptures portraying scenes of Greek myth, as well as bulls being devoured by lions. They were once part of temple decorations but were badly damaged, perhaps in the Persian attack of 480 BCE, if not before. Could one of the lost temples be the Hekatompedon drawn by Mikon?

A temple for storing treasure

A crucial part of the puzzle is an Ancient Greek democratic decree dating from the time before the Persian attack and the building of the Parthenon. This decree also mentions a Hekatompedon on the Acropolis, which was used for the somewhat ambiguous purpose of "treasure storage." The decree has been known for a long time, but archaeologists had debated what the Hekatompedon mentioned in it could have been.

Some think the Hekatompedon mentioned in the decree was a temple, as Greek temples normally served as the storage of treasures offered to the gods. But many others argue that the word Hekatompedon cannot refer to a temple at all, and must have been an open courtyard on the Acropolis.

The newly published graffito of Mikon's drawing is significant. If Mikon called his drawn temple a Hekatompedon, then it is likely that the term Hekatompedon in the decree referred to a temple too. Indeed, the Parthenon that stands on the hill today was once called the Hekatompedon.

Even though the Hekatompedon drawn by Mikon has disappeared, it is likely that some of the temple sculptures in the museum belong to it, as it once stood on the site where the Parthenon stands today.

Graffiti shows shepherds' literacy

The inscription is also significant because it shows that, contrary to what is normally thought, shepherds could read and write, even at this early date when literacy in the Greek world was still spreading. Why the shepherds produced so many graffiti is not knownit may have simply been a form of escapism during the dull moments of their job.

However, the graffito made by Mikon shows how a small scribble may be the key to tackling the historical riddles behind one the world's most iconic archaeological sites.

More information: Merle K. Langdon et al, Mikon's Hekatompedon: An Architectural Graffito from Attica, American Journal of Archaeology (2024). DOI: 10.1086/729771

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Aerial view of the Golden Pass LNG export terminal project that San Antonio's Zachry Holdings Inc. is exiting. Court documents

San Antonios Zachry Holdings Inc. is holding the engineering and construction contract on the massive Golden Pass LNG export terminal hostage instead of transferring it so work can proceed, the projects owner alleges.

In Zachrys bankruptcy case in Houston, Golden Pass LNG Terminal LLC filed an emergency motion Tuesday asking a judge to order Zachry to reject the contract for construction of the $10 billion-plus liquefied natural gas export terminal in Southeast Texas. In the alternative, Golden Pass seeks relief from an automatic stay imposed by the bankruptcy filing so work can proceed.

Zachry refuses to work and refuses to get out of the way so everyone else can, Golden Pass said in the court filing.

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Last month, Zachry and 20 subsidiaries sought bankruptcy protection saying that costs on the Golden Pass project had spiraled out of control. It simultaneously terminated more than 4,000 workers and indicated it would exit the project.

Zachrys abandonment has turned large segments of the Project dark, and continued delay risks a near complete shut-down at the project site, Golden Pass said. A project of this size and complexity cannot be shuttered for any amount of time without substantial negative consequences.

It added large portions of the facility are now eerily vacant.

QatarEnergy owns 70% of Golden Pass, while Exxon Mobil Corp. holds the remaining 30%.

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Work started in 2019, but Zachry has alleged in a lawsuit in the bankruptcy that by mid-2022, it required an additional $2.4 billion to complete. It largely blamed the pandemics effect on labor and the global supply chain, as well as supply chain disruptions caused by the Russia-Ukraine war.

It also alleged that Golden Pass induced it and the other contractors to front the increased cost with promises that Golden Pass or its owners would reimburse them once the project was complete.

Never walked away

In Zachrys 100-year history, we have never walked away from completing a job, and we have no intention of doing so at Golden Pass, the international engineering and construction firm said in a statement Wednesday. We have always intended to finish the Golden Pass project, and in doing so we expected to receive fair and appropriate compensation in light of unforeseen global events. However, Golden Pass and its shareholders have failed to act in good faith or follow through on their commitments to adequately fund the project, forcing Zachry  to file for Chapter 11.

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Golden Pass and its shareholders have left a trail of others harmed in their wake, including thousands of employees who lost their jobs and local vendors and suppliers not paid for their work, Zachry added. As we seek to resolve this matter through the legal process, our work is continuing, fully funded and fully staffed, across our other projects nationwide.

After the bankruptcy filing, Golden Pass said it continued to work on the project with Zachrys joint venture partners, Houstons McDermott International and Japans Chiyoda International Corp. About 75% of the work has been completed.

The work entails construction of three processing units  known as trains  for an LNG export facility that spans 750 acres in Sabine Pass. It was part of plans by Exxon Mobils to invest more than $50 billion to build and expand U.S. manufacturing facilities and QatarEnergy to invest $20 billion in the U.S. energy sector, Zachry said in its lawsuit.

In Tuesdays filing, Golden Pass said it delayed asking the court to issue an order for Zachry to reject the contract as part of a standstill agreement requested by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez to attempt to mediate the dispute.

Unfortunately, those efforts were unsuccessful, Golden Pass said. Zachry has had more than three weeks since the bankruptcy filing to resume performance under the contract or explain its reasons for delaying a rejection decision, it added.

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Vindictive steps

Golden Pass is now accusing Zachry of taking purposeful and vindictive steps to harm the Project and interfere with many others who are trying to fulfill their obligations and do their work by refusing to reject the contract.

Golden Pass cited numerous instances of alleged harmful actions by Zachry including firing more than 4,000 its own workers and preventing the joint-venture parties from hiring the workers; stopping pay for fuel, portable toilets and water; and preventing the maintenance and upkeep of a massive amount of important equipment that could cause it to fall into disrepair.

Under prior stipulations in the bankruptcy case, Golden Pass said, the only work currently permitted is limited to basic maintenance and is insufficient to prevent further long-term deterioration of the LNG facility.

Zachry was the lead contractor on the project.

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At its peak construction capacity, the facility employed more than 9,000 workers by Zachry, McDermott and Chiyoda in addition to some 400 contractors, vendors and suppliers.

The $9.25 billion contract called for the trains to be completed by certain dates, otherwise Zachry could be obligated to pay damages, Golden Pass said.

Zachrys exit

The parties entered into three amendments to the contract that provided Zachry more than $1.4 billion in additional consideration, plus an additional 17 months to complete the work, Golden Pass said. The deadline is now: April 2025 for the first train; November 2025 for the second train; and April 2026 for the third train.

Zachry now seeks to avoid the amendments without any legitimate basis, Golden Pass said.

Golden Pass also said it has advanced Zachry over $270 million last summer for work that has yet been performed and therefore not earned.

In an April 12 letter to Golden Pass, Zachry said the only way for the Project to be successfully completed is for Zachry to exit its role.

Obviously, this is a clear admission by Zachry of the reality of its own failures and the harm it has caused, Golden Pass said in its court filing.

On May 8, Zachry allegedly instructed most, if not all, of its hourly employees and subcontractors to leave the project and stay home indefinitely.

Golden Pass responded by issuing multiple notices of default to Zachry, which didnt address and instead sought refuge in bankruptcy, Golden Pass said.

Despite not seeking to reject the  Contract, Zachry has effectively demobilized the LNG Facility, Golden Pass added. Only a skeleton crew of approximately 140 workers remain on site, essentially working on demobilizing rather than progressing work required under the contract.

Zachrys breaches have resulted in total damages of more than $2 billion, Golden Pass said.
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The location of red spruce restoration sites and the seed sources selected for planting sites in Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia. The dark red outlines on the map show the known range extent of red spruce (Little Jr., 1971). Credit: Applications in Plant Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1002/aps3.11600

A research paper from University of Vermont's Keller Laboratory examining the impacts of genomically-diverse seedlings on the resilience of red spruce forests in a changing climate was published in Applications in Plant Sciences.

The paper represents a multi-year, hands-on research partnership between University of Vermont (UVM), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), Central Appalachian Spruce Restoration Initiative (CASRI), Appalachian Forest Restoration, and United States Forest Service (USFS).

The research looks at how integrating knowledge of genetic variation into restoration practices may help to mitigate the threats that global anthropogenic change pose to our forest ecosystems, and develops methods of sourcing tree seeds to ensure the highest diversity and future adaptability of at-risk species.

The roots of the project formed during a CASRI conference in 2018 when experts from various organizations learned about red spruce genetic research being conducted by Keller's lab and collaborators at University of Maryland. The group saw an opportunity to join forces to take an on-the-ground approach to utilizing the genetic data for red spruce restoration. In 2019, funding enabled this group to pursue science-informed restoration at scale.

"Science-informed restoration requires intentional collaboration across restoration practice, conservation strategy, and science," says Katy Shallows, remarking on the critical importance of this collaboration.

"Folks who work in each realm need to be together at the table to work through the negotiations of what's possible and what moves the needle on improved forest management. We had a 'dream team' of collaborators who were game to take on the give-and-take to get from genetic research outcomes to collecting red spruce cones in new locations and planting in places with conservation value."

Beginning in 2019, the team analyzed genome sequencing data from 65 populations of red spruce to determine different locations where seed could be collected to generate a genetically-diverse stock for restoration. From there, researchers designed a method for monitoring the seedlings after planting so their survival and growth could be tracked and studied.

In 2021, after genetically-diverse red spruce seed sources were identified, collected, and grown up in a nursery, CASRI and TNC planted 58,000 red spruce seedlings across 255 acres in Maryland, West Virginia, and Virginia. Data on these seedlings' growth were collected and analyzed in 2022 to determine the validity of the seed source selection strategies.

The benefits of the study's strategy to seed selection based on genetic diversity are to increase the current establishment success of new trees while also boosting forests' future evolutionary potential to respond to climate change stressors.

The project was a model of stakeholder involvement across diverse sectors: governmental science funding, academic researcher expertise, non-profit conservation organizations leadership, and commercial company project execution. The study's approach of pooling multiple sources of seed in optimized combinations results in restoration stock that has higher genetic diversity and evolvability while also minimizing the load of deleterious mutations that can lead to inbreeding depression.

This approach provides new insights into how genetic data can inform tree restoration and conservation, making it more successful and, hopefully, more resource-efficient by increasing establishment success and building resiliency to future changes.

"The scientific community has made major strides in understanding species' adaptability to climate change over the past decade" says Anoob Prakash, a Ph.D. candidate in the Keller Lab at UVM and the study's lead author.

"But these efforts are not always adopted in management settings for a myriad of reasons. Our study outlines how to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world applications. Hopefully, such collaborations become the norm rather than the exception."

According to Stephen Keller, "This study gives me a lot of optimism that people from different professional backgrounds, each bringing their unique expertise and passion for conservation, can come together to co-develop unique solutions to aid the future resiliency of our forests. There is tremendous potential for translating basic research findings into 'boots on the ground' conservation practices. We just need to keep finding ways to work together."

More information: Bringing genomics to the field: An integrative approach to seed sourcing for forest restoration, Applications in Plant Sciences (2024). bsapubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.co  i/10.1002/aps3.11600 Journal information: Applications in Plant Sciences
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The map showing soil moisture conditions at the root zonean estimate of how much water is available for cropsin southern Africa for March 2024. Orange and red areas depict deficits in soil moisture. Data for the map is from the FEWS NET Land Data Assimilation System, which uses observational datasets and seasonal climate forecasts to provide monthly forecasts of hydrological conditions relevant to food security in Africa and the Middle East. Credit: The Earth Observatory/NASA

Innovative solutions and emergency funding are critical to help the more than 30 million people in Southern Africa affected by drought who now face severe food insecurity and humanitarian challenges, UN agencies and governments warn.

The El Nino climate pattern, which started globally in July 2023, has led to a severe rainfall deficit across the region, with temperatures five degrees above average.

February was the driest in 100 years, with just a fifth of the usual rainfall for the month, in a region where 70% of people depend on rain-fed agriculture to survive, according to the World Food Program (WFP).

Now, the window of opportunity is rapidly closing to prevent a large-scale humanitarian crisis, UN agencies warned at a briefing in Pretoria, South Africa, on June 5, with widespread harvest failures imminent.

Affected communities say it is the worst drought they have ever experienced.

Wikala Kaideni, a smallholder farmer from Lekerenji village in the Chikwawa district of southern Malawi, told SciDev.Net that he and his family were facing starvation after their entire crop wilted.

"During a normal season, we harvest at least 30 bags of maize, but this season the dry spell scotched the maize at the flowering stage," said Kaideni, standing with his wife and 7-month-old baby.

"The maize dried up and we did not harvest anything."

Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe have declared national disasters after crop failures triggered widespread food insecurity and displacement of people.

In Malawi, one of the hardest-hit countries, the government and UN partners say innovative strategies are needed to increase food production and build resilience.

Irrigation is critical

The WFP says expanding irrigation across the region is critical, yet funding shortfalls have hampered these efforts.

Moses Chimphepo, director of preparedness and response at Malawi's department of disaster management affairs, says irrigation farming is one solution the country is exploring.

"We are also mindful of the fact that a lot of people don't have food and therefore we have another component of humanitarian assistance," Chimphepo told SciDev.Net.

"We are looking at two aspects: providing some food to some families or providing some cash transfers."

The El Nino impact is exacerbating the devastating effects of the climate crisis in Malawi and compounding the impacts of tropical storms and cyclones in 2022 and 2023, according to the WFP.

Rebecca Adda-Dontoh, UN resident coordinator for Malawi, told SciDev.Net that communities in the country had been involved in watershed management activities, including construction of dams, eyebrow basins, trenches and community access roads, as well as tree regeneration.

She said the UN was committed to supporting Malawi and other countries affected by the fallout from El Nino, to build resilience to future shocks.

Long-term solutions

"In the long term, we're looking at re-growing trees and positioning communities to access carbon credits, addressing climate change impacts," Adda-Dontoh said.

"This approach will help communities adapt to climate change and reduce their vulnerability to future disasters."

Reena Ghelani, UN assistant secretary-general and climate crisis coordinator for the El Nino Response, told SciDev.Net during a visit to affected families in Malawi last month that immediate action was needed.

"We're seeing a horrendous drought, but we're also seeing opportunities for innovation," she said.

"We must act now to address the escalating disaster."

She highlighted the importance of supporting smallholder farmers, particularly women, who are critical to food production.

"We must empower them with climate-resilient agricultural practices and access to markets," she added.

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To create nHz frequency signals, the vacuum transitions must be supercooled. These slow transitions struggle to complete due to the cosmic expansion of the universe. Even if the transition is complete, the wave frequencies may shift away from nHz. Therefore, while nanohertz gravitational waves are cool, their origin is likely not supercooled. Credit: Andrew Fowlie

A new study published in Physical Review Letters explores the possibility that a strongly supercooled, first-order phase transition in the early universe could explain gravitational wave signals observed by pulsar timing arrays (PTAs).

Gravitational waves, first proposed by Albert Einstein in his general theory of relativity, are ripples in the fabric of spacetime caused by violent processes like the merging of black holes.

They were first detected by LIGO in 2016, confirming Einstein's predictions nearly a century later. The most common sources of gravitational black holes are merging black holes, spinning neutron stars, and supernovae.

Recently, the NANOGrav, or the North American Nanohertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves, detected the presence of stochastic gravitational wave background (SGWB) from pulsar timing arrays (PTAs).

SGWB are different because they are isotropic, meaning they spread equally in all directions, indicating that the source of these are distributed uniformly throughout the universe.

This finding prompted the scientists in the PRL study to explore the origin of these waves, which could be from first-order phase transitions (FOPT) in the early universe.

Phys.org spoke to co-authors of the study, Prof. Yongcheng Wu, Prof. Chih-Ting Lu, Prof. Peter Athron, and Prof. Lei W from Nanjing Normal University, to learn more about their work.

"Our probe into the early universe is limited to the period after the formation of CMB [cosmic microwave background]. Although we have some indirect hints about what happened before CMB, gravitational waves are currently the only method to probe the very early universe," said Yongcheng.

Prof. Lei added, "In the past few years, the supercooled FOPT has been widely considered a possible source of the SGWB."

"A new signal seen by PTAs may be evidence of this happeninga very exciting possibility," said Prof. Athron.

Prof. Chih-Ting said that he wanted to understand the connection between the Higgs field and the Higgs boson and its connection to the mechanism of electroweak symmetry breaking. "Linking gravitational wave signals of different frequencies with cosmic phase transitions has opened another window for me to study this," he said.

First-order phase transitions

FOPT are phase transitions in which a system transitions between different phases abruptly or discontinuously. One such example we see in our daily life is the freezing of water.

"The water can stay in a liquid state even if the temperature is below the frozen point. Then, with a small perturbation [change], it suddenly turns into ice. The key signature is that the system stays in the phase for a long time below the transition temperature," explained Prof. Yongcheng.

The electroweak force is a unified description of two of the four fundamental forces of nature: the electromagnetic force and the weak nuclear force.

"We know that in our universe, one drastic changethe breaking of the electroweak symmetry that predicts all weak nuclear interactionsgenerates the masses of all fundamental particles we have observed today," said Prof. Athron.

This led to the electroweak force splitting into the electromagnetic and weak forces via the Higgs field (which gives all particles their mass). The process by which this happens is the strong first-order electroweak phase transition.

A supercooled FOPT is one where the temperature drop during the phase transition is sudden. The researchers wanted to understand if such a FOPT could be the source of the SGWB observed by the NANOGrav collaboration.

Potential mechanism for generation of SGWB

The idea behind the theory is that the early universe was in a high-temperature state known as a false vacuum state, meaning that its energy is not the lowest possible energy.

As the universe expands and cools, the potential energy decreases. Below a critical temperature, the false vacuum state becomes unstable.

At this temperature, quantum fluctuations (random motions) can initiate the formation of true vacuum states, which are the lowest energy states. This happens through the process of nucleation (formation) of bubbles.

Bubbles represent regions where the FOPT of false vacuum to true vacuum has happened.

Once nucleated, these bubbles of true vacuum grow and expand. They can collide and merge, eventually percolating through space. Percolation refers to the formation of a connected network of true vacuum regions.

The phase transition is completed when a sufficient fraction of the universe is in the true vacuum state. This completion typically requires that bubbles percolate across a significant portion of the universe.

During this process, the collisions and dynamics of expanding bubbles generate SGWB, which the NANOGrav collaboration has observed.

Modifying the Higgs potential

The researchers' work started by building a theoretical model to study the supercooled FOPTs and the possibility of SGWB generation.

Prof. Lei explained, "In the case of supercooled FOPTs, models can predict the conditions under which such transitions might occur, including the temperature at which the phase transition happens and the characteristics of the transition process."

The researchers began by modifying the Higgs potential, which explains how the Higgs field interacts with itself and with other fundamental particles.

They added a cubic term to facilitate the dynamics of the supercooled FOPT in the early universe.

Here, they define four key parameters to study the challenges of fitting the nano Hz (nHz) signal (detected by the NANOGrav collaboration) with this cubic potential:

Percolation temperature is the temperature at which bubbles of the true vacuum state nucleate and grow sufficiently to form a connected network throughout the universe. Completion temperature is the temperature by which the phase transition has fully completed, with the entire universe transitioning to the true vacuum state. Benchmark point 1 represents a scenario with a significant degree of supercooling while satisfying both percolation and completion criteria. Benchmark point 2 represents a scenario where stronger supercooling has been achieved with a nominal percolation temperature of around 100 MeV but fails to meet realistic percolation criteria and does not complete the transition.

The two temperature measures are essential for understanding the dynamics and timing of the phase transition. They ensure that the transition is comprehensive and complete, which is necessary for generating a gravitational wave signal.

The benchmark points, on the other hand, bring to light the challenges for a supercooled FOPT to generate SGWB.

Limitations of the model

The researchers identified two main challenges that rule out the supercooled FOPT model as an explanation for the nHz signal detected by the NANOGrav collaboration.

The first challenge is the percolation and completion of the supercooled FOPT. When the temperature of the universe drops below a critical value, the phase transition will not happen.

This is because the energy needed for bubbles of the new phase (true vacuum) to nucleate and grow is low.

"Only a few bubbles form and don't grow quickly enough to fill the universe," explained Prof. Athron.

Therefore, the completion of the phase transition, where the entire universe transitions to the new phase, becomes less likely.

The second challenge is that of reheating. Even if a scenario is considered where somehow completion is achieved, the energy released during the phase transition releases heat in the universe. This process increases the temperature of the universe, a process known as reheating.

"This makes it difficult to maintain the conditions necessary for the SGWB to be produced," added Prof. Lei.

The gravitational waves produced in this scenario will not have the same frequency as the ones observed by PTAs, typically in the nHz range.

Conclusion and future work

Supercooled FOPT as explanations for SGWB can help evade constraints on modifications to the standard model and connect the nHz signal to higher-scale new physics, such as those involved in the electroweak phase transition or beyond.

However, as the researchers have shown, challenges suggest that supercooled FOPT may not be the source of the observed SGWB.

The researchers have plans to explore other FOPTs that could explain the observed signal.

"If the unknown dark sector is capable of generating chiral phase transitions similar to those in quantum chromodynamics, thereby further producing nHz gravitational wave signals, it could naturally account for such low-frequency gravitational wave signals," explained Prof. Chih-Ting.

Prof. Yongcheng added, "The supercooled phase transition can trigger the formation of primordial black holes, which can be part of the dark matter component of our universe. The violent process of supercooled FOPT and much higher energy released during the procedure can also provide an environment for particle production, which is much more important if we are considering dark matter production."

Prof. Lei also mentioned exploring broader cosmological implications like supermassive black hole binaries.

The researchers also plan on releasing the software and calculations they have developed in this work.

"We are planning to release public software with a full calculation from the particle physics model to the gravitational wave spectra that is fully state of the art and as precise as can be achieved today so that other teams can easily apply the same level of rigor as we have," concluded Prof. Athron.

More information: Peter Athron et al, Can Supercooled Phase Transitions Explain the Gravitational Wave Background Observed by Pulsar Timing Arrays? Physical Review Letters (2024). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.132.221001 Journal information: Physical Review Letters

 2024 Science X Network
Le Sauce & Co.'s recipe for Roasted Poblano & Garlic Crab Mac and Cheese takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Paul Stephen/Staff

For the Kirl family, the sauce isn't so secret. All their recipes are right there for you to try, in convenient pouches on the shelves at your friendly neighborhood grocery store.

Fair Oaks Ranch couple Lori and Kyle Kirl, their daughter, Maya Kirl, and their son-in-law, Matt Rettinger, are the quartet behind Le Sauce & Co. The San Antonio-based business specializes in finishing sauces designed to simplify everyday cooking without sacrificing flavor. What started as a small brand on amazon.com in 2018 has blossomed into a robust business with products now available in about 2,000 grocery stores across the country.

Le Sauce & Co. was launched in 2018 by Kyle and Lori Kirl. Le Sauce & Co.

The Le Sauce concept is deceptively simple. A home cook doesn't have to posses much kitchen prowess beyond boiling a pot of water or switching on an oven to get a solid meal on the table, often in less than 15 minutes. Just prep a few ingredients, squeeze in a pouch of Le Sauce, and chow down on dishes such as White Wine Lemon Garlic Whole Roasted Chicken, Roasted Poblano & Garlic Crab Mac and Cheese or Deconstructed Chicken Mole Tamales.

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"What I really hope we do for everybody is provide everyday access to delicious food in a convenient format," Kyle Kirl said. "I look forward to dinner every day. Whether you're alone or with one or more people, its a time to slow down and savor the moment. We want to make that possible for everybody."

While Le Sauce & Co. now produces its sauces 2,000 quarts at a time, every one of its products began life in a small saucepan on Kyle Kirl's stove. He's a veteran of both the restaurant and food sales industries, but stirring a pot for his family is his first passion.

Roasted chicken with Le Sauce & Co.'s Green Peppercorn sauce is a favorite of the Kirl family. Le Sauce & Co.

"For a decade I was hearing, 'Kyle, why don't you put this in a jar and sell it?' " he said. "Over and over and over again we got encouragement to give it a shot."

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And the Kirls took that shot. The brand got its big break in 2019. At the time, the family was selling its sauces in glass jars. The brand caught the eye of H-E-B during the grocer's Quest for Texas Best contest that year. While Le Sauce didn't win, the brand did earn a spot on H-E-B shelves across the state.

Today, Le Sauce is packaged in the same kind of flexible, space-saving pouches that contain tuna, yogurt and baby food. Five flavors  Demi Glace, Green Peppercorn, White Wine Lemon Garlic, Roasted Poblano & Garlic and Mole de Puebla  form the core of the brand's offerings. A line of tomato-based sauces was added a couple months ago, and Le Sauce plans to roll out a selection of savory gravies later this year.

Le Sauce & Co. currently offers five types of finishing sauces, five tomato-based sauces and will add a line of savory gravies later this year. Le Sauce & Co.

A key breakthrough moment for the brand, said Maya Kirl, who handles marketing for Le Sauce, was figuring out how to satisfy the demands of the modern household.

"We talked to over 1,000 people and the No. 1 thing people asked is, 'What do we do with our leftovers?' " Maya said. "A large jar of sauce is too big. Thats why we launched our two-serving packages."

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That less-is-more approach helped push up sales about 75%. The smaller format has been a hit with young working families who may not all want to eat the same thing for dinner, empty nesters cooking for two, and solo diners who don't want to be locked into repeatedly chowing on seemingly endless leftovers from one large-format dish.

Le Sauce & Co. distinguishes itself from many other products on store shelves through its commitment to using only quality ingredients. Where many nutrition labels rattle off a list of preservatives, stabilizers and emulsifiers, it doesn't get much more complicated than cream, mustard, white wine or veal stock on the back of a Le Sauce pouch. The most offensive ingredient may be a pinch of citric acid to make the sauces shelf-stable.

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"Nobody's doing what were doing," Kyle Kirl said. "Were using real food. When you read the ingredients, youll find were using chicken stock made from chicken and mirepoix. Were sauteing shallots and onions and garlic. I dont want to put anything in a package I wouldnt cook in my house."

The Kirl family shared five recipes using their sauces in a variety of ways. Each and every one of these dishes  particularly the White Wine Lemon Garlic Whole Roasted Chicken  started out as a family dinner in their home. Now, you can bring those dishes to your table with a quick trip to the grocery store and a few minutes of labor in the kitchen.

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Le Sauce & Co.'s Mole de Puebla transforms a few ingredients into an elegant dish of Deconstructed Chicken Mole Tamales. Le Sauce & Co.

Deconstructed Chicken Mole Tamales

8 ounces shredded chicken (boiled chicken breast or thigh or rotisserie chicken is fine)

2 servings instant polenta

16 ounces chicken broth

Dash of salt and pepper

1 pouch Le Sauce & Co. Mole de Puebla Gourmet Finishing Sauce

1/2 cup peas (canned or frozen)

1/2 cup corn (canned or frozen)

1/2 cup Cotija Cheese

1/4 cup Mexican crema (or sour cream)

Instructions: Place the shredded chicken in a bowl and set aside.

Prepare two servings of instant polenta according to the instructions on the package. Mash the polenta with a fork and add a splash of chicken broth. Mix polenta and chicken broth, adding more chicken broth and mixing as needed until a smooth consistency is formed.

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Season the polenta with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the Le Sauce & Co. Mole de Puebla sauce over the shredded chicken and heat in microwave for 45-60 seconds. Mix to thoroughly coat chicken.

Heat the peas and corn or prepare according to package. Plate the polenta on two plates and use a spoon to smooth and flatten it out into a large circle. Place the shredded chicken on top of polenta, then top the chicken with the peas and corn. Pour any remaining mole sauce over top of peas and corn. Top with crumbled Cotija cheese, drizzle with crema and serve.

Makes 2 servings

Le Sauce & Co.'s Green Peppercorn sauce pairs well with steak. Le Sauce & Co.

Green Peppercorn Steak

1 sweet potato

 pound steak of your choice (Le Sauce & Co. recommends skirt steak)

Salt and pepper

1 teaspoon butter

1 pouch Le Sauce & Co. Classic Green Peppercorn Gourmet Finishing sauce

Olive oil

One big handful of fresh spinach

6 cherry tomatoes (optional)

Instructions: Wash the sweet potato, poke holes in the potato with a knife or fork and microwave on each side for 3 minutes (6 minutes total) and set aside.

Season the steak with salt and pepper. Warm a heavy skillet pan on the stovetop on high heat. While the pan is warming, cut the potato into 2-inch cubes.

When the pan is hot (not scorching hot) add butter and steak. Cook for 3 minutes each side for medium-rare. Take the steak out of the pan and place it on a plate to rest for 7 minutes.

Warm Classic Green Peppercorn finishing sauce in a small pan on low or microwave per directions.

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In the still-hot pan, add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the potatoes, stirring for about 4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper and take out of the pan and place on the same plate as the resting steak.

In the same hot pan, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the spinach. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, toss with tongs for 60 seconds until wilted. If you desire tomatoes, add them to the pan 10 seconds before the spinach. Plate, sauce and enjoy.

Makes 2 servings

Le Sauce & Cos recipe for Roasted Poblano & Garlic Crab Mac and Cheese takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Le Sauce & Co.

Roasted Poblano & Garlic Crab Mac and Cheese

4 ounces macaroni noodles

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 pouch Le Sauce Roasted Poblano & Garlic Gourmet Finishing Sauce

1/2 cup grated Mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Jack cheese (or any white melting cheese)

1 (6-ounce) can of crab, drained

1/2 cup milk or reserved pasta water

Fresh cracked black pepper

Instructions: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil; season pasta water with kosher salt. Cook pasta to al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta, and return the pot to the stovetop over low heat.

Stir the cooked pasta, Le Sauce Roasted Poblano & Garlic sauce, cheeses and drained crab together in the pot. Stir in milk or water as needed. Stir often until all cheese is melted. Season with fresh cracked pepper and serve.

Makes 2 servings

Le Sauce & Co.'s line of tomato-based sauces are portioned for a serving of two. Le Sauce & Co.

Tomato Basil Ravioli with Crab and Green Peas

4 ounces fresh or frozen green peas

1 package Le Sauce & Co. Tomato Basil Gourmet Pasta Sauce

2 servings of ravioli of choice (about 2 cups)

8 ounces lump crab meat

2 medium basil leaves, chopped

Instructions: Bring a pot of water to a boil. While waiting for water to boil, take your frozen peas out of the freezer or drain your peas. In a large saucepan, warm your Tomato Basil pasta sauce, then add your green peas.

Once your pasta sauce is warm, add your ravioli to the pot of boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes or according to the package instructions.

When the ravioli is done, or has floated to the surface of the pot, take a slotted spoon to scoop out the ravioli and put in the large saucepan with the pasta sauce and green peas. Plate your ravioli and then add the crab on top. Then sprinkle your chopped up basil all over your plate.

Makes 2 servings

White Wine Lemon Garlic Whole Roasted Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)

3/4 pound small red or fingerling potatoes (about 3 per person)

 pound of carrots, peeled and chopped

Olive oil

Salt and pepper

8 ounces mushrooms (optional)

1 pouch Le Sauce & Co. White Wine Lemon Garlic Sauce

Dijon mustard (optional)

Herbs de Provence (optional)

Instructions: Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Add the potatoes and carrots to a large skillet, dutch oven or roasting pan and drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. If desired, add mushrooms to the pan.

Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Rub the chicken with Dijon mustard and sprinkle on herbs de Provence, if desired. Add the chicken to the cooking dish with the vegetables.

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If you are using a heavy cast iron pan or dutch oven, place the pan with chicken and veggies on the stovetop and turn it on high for 3 minutes. This helps with total cook time. Place pan/dutch oven/sheet pan in the oven and set the timer for one hour. Cook times will vary based on the size of the chicken.

When the timer is done, take the chicken out of the oven and check the temperature at the thigh. When the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165 degrees at the thigh, let it rest on the stovetop for 10 minutes.

While your meal is resting, add White Wine Lemon Garlic finishing sauce to a small pan and warm on low stirring occasionally. Slice the chicken and plate it with the vegetables and sauce, then serve.

Makes 4 servings
The Davenport man accused of taking part in the murders of Brian L. Goodwin and Amy M. Smith has asked the court for a new attorney.

Meanwhile, his wife says he needs mental health supports while in jail.

Devon Braet wrote a letter to 7th District Court Judge Mark Fowler last week requesting the replacement of his attorney, Amy Kepes of the Des Moines-based Public Defender's Special Defense Unit. He asked for a "more local attorney."

Braet, 34, and Adriana Blake, 27, were arrested in the days after the killings Goodwin and Smith. Each face two first-degree murder charges.

Investigators believe Goodwin and Smith were shot and killed between 4:30 a.m. and 7 a.m. Jan. 15 in the home Goodwin rented at 5210 N. Division St. The bodies of the 44-year-olds were discovered just before 4 a.m. Jan. 16 after the Davenport Fire Department responded to the report of a blaze at the residence.

In his letter to Fowler, Braet wrote: "I've been in jail at total of five months and have talked to (Kepes) a total of one hour tops. I have never got her law firm to answer the phone. She showed up a few weeks ago to inform me that she drove two and one-half hours to see me, but would only be able to see me for five minutes because the jail won't allow you to see your lawyer after 5 o'clock."

Braet asked Fowler to replace Kepes with attorneys Eric Tindal and Andrea Jaeger of the Iowa City and Davenport-based law firm of Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger. Braet wrote in the letter that Tindal and Jaeger were originally appointed to represent him.

The law firm had previously represented him, though Jaeger had not, according to court records. Tindal and Jeffrey L. Powell, also of Keegan, Tindal and Jaeger, were appointed to represent Braet in January, but that was short-lived. On Feb. 16, one month after the discovery of the bodies of Goodwin and Smith, Assistant State Public Defender Miguel Puentes requested the Public Defender's Special Defense Unit. Tindal and Powell withdrew from the case days later.

Seventh Judicial District Court Judge Henry Latham scheduled a Zoom hearing on Braet's change-of-attorney request for 8:30 a.m. July 1.

'I do love him'

Aleecia Braet has been married to Devon Braet for just over four years.

She said her life with Devon Braet is the story of addiction and trying to convince him to live a life with her. Both had done stints in prison and met in June or July of 2020 at the 7th District Court's Work Release Center  known on the street as "605" because of its address at 605 Main St. in Davenport.

Aleecia Braet was 23 years old in November of 2020  and her last name in the arrest record was listed as "Blasdell"  when she and Devon Braet were arrested. Agents of the Scott County Sheriff's Department Special Operations Unit searched their residence and seized 3.7 grams of crack cocaine, 3.9 grams of methamphetamine, and 6.9 grams of marijuana. Also seized was a digital scale and packaging materials, as well as a .22-caliber Springfield Savage Arms rifle with a sawed-off barrel.

In a testament to the insular world of Davenport's drug scene, Aleecia Braet said she met Adriana Blake, who was known as "Audi" and had the last name "Prieto," while in jail after the November 2020 arrest.

"I was a drug addict for years. Been sober for four this year. I was also in jail with (Adriana Blake) when I was fighting my case with Devon and was her cell mate at one point during that time," Aleecia Braet said. "But I don't know how Audi met Devon, I honestly don't."

Aleecia Braet said she left Devon Braet long before he started spending time with Blake and staying in Goodwin's house in the days before the killings. She said she does visit Devon Braet, but only to offer him emotional support.

"Obviously, Im still married to Devon after all this. I do love him," she said. "Ive been through it so many times. I truly dont care. Like I said, I left Devon cause I had different plans for my life, but I also understand the difference between love and desperation."

Aleecia Braet's last name and support for her husband may have made her a target, she said.

"It was hard. I had numerous threats sent my way, and I felt a lot of guilt for not trying harder to save our marriage," she said. "I did try, but our views on marriage and life were just too different after I was sober for a couple years. I still tried to steer him in the correct direction."

Tiffany Sisco, who said she had a relationship with Devon Braet before he started associating with Blake, said she thinks he was manipulated to take part in the crimes.

Aleecia Braet confirmed she knew of her husband's relationship with Sisco. She echoed Sisco's sentiments.

"I had left him," Aleecia Braet said. "He could be with whoever he wanted. But I don't think my husband could ever carry out a murder."

Letters and lawyers

Devon Braet has now written to a pair of 7th Judicial District judges.

He wrote his first letter  to Judge Michael Motto  at the end of April asking to be "seen by mental health providers to help me cope or maybe get on medication, so that I can be better to deal with this hard time in my life."

In the letter, Devon Braet claimed he has been denied requests to be seen by behavioral health professionals. He also claimed that Scott County Jail staff "searched and destroyed" his belongings.

Before the first letter was sent, Sisco said she thought Devon Braet was struggling with mental health issues.

Interviewed in early June, Aleecia Braet said she thought her husband "seems to be more positive than in previous cases Ive known him to be in. I do agree he needs mental health services."

While Devon Braet is seeking a new attorney, Blake is settling in to a new jail.

She was moved to the Marshall County Jail following an order signed May 17 by 7th District Court Judge Stuart Werling. Blake's attorney, Alex Gilmore, requested the transfer because he works out of the West Des Moines-based law firm F.M. Brown.

The Marshall County Jail is located at 2369 Jessup Ave. in Marshalltown, a drive of between two hours and 20 minutes and three hours from Davenport. It is about 50 minutes from West Des Moines.

The move marks the second time Blake has been transferred. She was moved from the Scott County Jail to the Muscatine County Jail at the end of April.

Blake and Braet face a host of charges beyond two counts each of first-degree murder. They each face the following charges:

Two counts of first-degree robbery.

Two counts of assault while participating in a felony - serious injury.

Two counts of going armed with intent.

Two counts of use of dangerous weapon in commission of a crime.

Two counts of abuse of a corpse.

One count of first-degree arson.

One count of dominion/control of firearm/offensive weapon by a felon.

One count of possession of methamphetamine. In Blakes case, it is listed as her second such offense. For Braet it was listed as his third or subsequent offense.

Another woman also was arrested in connection with the case. Melisa Marie Weber, 49, is charged with two counts of abuse of a corpse and one count each of accessory after the fact and second-degree arson.

Weber was granted a new attorney Monday. Lanny Van Daele will represent her, marking her third attorney.

On May 31, Beau Bergmann had to withdraw as her attorney, citing a conflict. Andrea Jaeger was appointed as Weber's new attorney. That appointment didn't last long, as Jaeger filed to withdraw as Weber's attorney on June 6.

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Air Force Maj. Gen. Phillip Stewart arrives at Fort Sam Houston for jury selection in his court-martial. He's charged with raping a female subordinate. Eight fellow generals will decide his guilt or innocence. Ethan Rocke/Ethan E. Rocke/Contributor

Lawyers and a military judge had nearly finished selecting a jury for the trial of an Air Force general charged with rape when they hit a snag on Wednesday: They ran out of potential jurors.

Under military law, Maj. Gen. Phillip Stewart must be tried by a jury of eight officers of his rank or higher. By late Wednesday afternoon, seven generals had been seated as jurors. But six had been removed from consideration for various reasons, leaving the court one general short of a jury and exhausting the pool of 13 who had been summoned to Fort Sam Houston.

The judge presiding over the court martial, Col. Matthew Stoffel, said the Air Education and Training Command, in which Stewart serves, would have to produce more generals to help fill out the jury. The prospective jurors will have to complete a questionnaire by 5 p.m. Thursday and be in the courtroom at Fort Sam at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, the judge said.

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Opening arguments in the trial, which had been scheduled to begin Monday, likely will have to be delayed.

Stewart is only the second Air Force general ever to face a court-martial. He is accused of sexually assaulting a female subordinate at or near Altus AFB in southwestern Oklahoma in April 2023. At the time, he was commander of the 19th Air Force, the services pilot training arm based at Randolph AFB in San Antonio. He was stripped of his command a month later due to a loss of confidence in his ability to lead.

Stewart contends that he and the female officer were in a consensual relationship. The prosecution asserts that the woman had no choice but to submit to his advances given his rank and power over her.

Stewart could be sentenced to as many as 63 years in prison if found guilty of four violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice: sexual assault, conduct unbecoming an officer, dereliction of duty and extramarital sexual conduct.

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Efforts to assemble a jury began last week with an original group of 16 generals, three of whom were ruled ineligible. The remaining 13 traveled to Fort Sam Houston this week for questioning to determine whether they could weigh the evidence in the case impartially, a process know as voir dire.

On Tuesday, prosecution and defense lawyers sparred over whether one of the 13, Lt. Gen. Stacey T. Hawkins, should be seated on the jury. Hawkins is commander of the Air Force Sustainment Center at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma.

The dispute centered on an exchange of emails between Hawkins and Col. Naomi Porterfield Dennis, the lead prosecutor in the case. In one of the emails, Hawkins congratulated Dennis on being named deputy lead counsel in the Air Force's Office of Special Trial Counsel (OSTC). Hawkins testified that he had helped Dennis enter an Air Force program nine years earlier but that the two had never met.

Prosecutors wanted Hawkins on the jury, but defense lawyer Sherry Bunn asked Stoffel to remove him. Bunn contended that Hawkins' email created the appearance of an implied bias that could taint the verdict  especially since Congress created OSTC in hopes of strengthening sexual assault prosecutions.

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Stoffel ultimately allowed Hawkins to serve on the jury. He said the congratulatory message did not imply bias. He noted that Hawkins sent the email as the special counsel's office was being established late last year, and that it was during the holiday season, a time when people catch up on correspondence.

Congress created OSTC as part of an overhaul of the military justice system. The office began operating in December. It is an independent organization within the Pentagon that prosecutes 14 major crimes including murder, sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, kidnapping and child pornography.

Previously, decisions on whether to prosecute were made by an accused service member's commanding officer. Sexual assault victims in the military campaigned for years to have those decisions removed from the chain of command and placed in the hands of independent prosecutors. They contended that commanders, even after consulting with legal experts, couldn't be trusted to do the job and that the new system would secure more convictions.

Stewart's case is one of the last to be referred for prosecution under the old system. The evidence against him was aired at an Article 32 hearing at Randolph in October. The proceeding was held to determine whether there was sufficient evidence of a crime to warrant a trial.

During that hearing, defense lawyers said the female officer joked with Stewart during their encounters and kissed and hugged him. Prosecutors, however, said the evidence showed he forced his will on her and that comments she made before, during and after the encounters suggested she was uncomfortable.

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After reviewing the evidence, the hearing examiner, Col. Brian Thompson, recommended against a court-martial, saying the case was so weak that prosecutors would never obtain a conviction.

But Lt. Gen. Brian S. Robinson, Stewarts commanding officer, overruled Thompson and ordered Stewart to stand trial. To obtain a conviction, prosecutors will have to persuade six of the eight jurors of Stewart's guilt.

Stewart is a veteran command pilot with more than 2,600 hours in the air, including 600-plus in combat zones. He flew the F-15C fighter-bomber and the U-2 spy plane and held command positions in Iraq and Afghanistan.

At the 19th Air Force, he oversaw 32,000 employees. The 19th leads cadet flight orientation at the U.S. Air Force Academy and trains entry-level and advanced fighter pilots, as well as drone pilots, combat systems officers, and air mobility and special operations combat crews.

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The future of a Montana law that defines sex as binary based on chromosome and reproductive organs could soon be decided by a Missoula judge.

Lawyers from the ACLU of Montana and the state Attorney Generals Office gave oral arguments in front of Judge Shane Vannatta of Missoula County District Court on Tuesday. Vannatta said the court would make a ruling as soon as possible. A ruling in favor of the plaintiffs, the ACLU, would void the law without going to trial. If Vannatta does not grant the summary judgment, the case goes to trial.

Senate Bill 458, sponsored by Sen. Carl Glimm, R-Kila, during the 2023 session, modified more than three dozen sections of state code that reference sex to explicitly define the term as male or female. Under the legislation, a female must produce eggs, and a male must produce sperm.

Opponents during the session voiced concern that the bill essentially wrote transgender and intersex people out of state law. They cautioned that it would result in discrimination and legally incorrectly define people by limiting their choices for "sex" to two options.

Gender refers to internal and social identity. It can correspond with sex, but it is not the same. Gender is based on social constructs that change over time and vary by society. Sex refers to biological characteristics like chromosomes as well as hormones or reproductive anatomy that can be medically altered.

SB 458 includes no mention of gender other than to say that sex is determined without regard to an individuals subjective experience of gender.

The ACLU of Montana filed a lawsuit challenging the law on the grounds that it violates the Montana Constitution. It also filed a motion for summary judgment, which would allow the court to declare the law void without going to trial.

Kyle Gray from Holland & Hart argued on behalf of the plaintiffs. The crux of the case is that SB 458 violates something known as the single subject rule. Montanas Constitution requires that all bills, with few exceptions, only deal with one main issue. That issue must be clearly stated in the title of a bill so that members of the public and legislators can reasonably know what it does.

You have to be specific in what concept youre dealing with, and that just did not happen in this bill, Gray said. Its a poster boy for violating the single subject clearly expressed in the title rule.

Plaintiffs said the bills title  an act generally revising the laws to provide a common definition for the word sex when referring to a human  does not specify what the legislation goes on to discuss.

"Sex" could mean sexual intercourse. It could also mean reproductive body parts that determine male or female, but its not intrinsically limited to those two categories, Gray asserted.

SB 458 goes on to impact a slew of state codes with potentially significant implications with its new definition  things like building codes, discrimination rules, certain medical tests and more  but the average person cant be expected to know that from the title, according to the plaintiffs.

I dont think you would know from reading this that it has something to do with transgender people or intersex people, for example, Gray said. If you are going to be talking about this issue, if you are adopting a new or different or nuanced definition of sex as a common definition for what the law is going to require, you have to define what it is.

According to the state, represented on Tuesday by Thane Johnson and Alwyn Lansing from the Attorney Generals Office, SB 458 clears the legal threshold for the single statute rule because "sex" is already written into Montana code and case law as referring to male and female, and this law simply updates the definition more robustly in other codes to reflect modern times.

Theres no way a title can rule out all other exceptions, Johnson said, asserting that the title as written adequately signals to the public what the bill is about. Plaintiffs' argument would lead to absurd results because it would fill up pages if it has to rule out all other subjects.

One way around the single subject rule would be for SB 458 to qualify as one of the few exemptions.

Johnson says the law should qualify for the general revision exemption, asserting that by including the phrase an act generally revising the laws in the title, the state gives itself an out, not having to include all the particulars of the bill that follow in the title.

He said that all the statutes impacted by SB 458s definition of sex were written long ago, and that the legislation simply seeks to provide a general revision to existing code.

Plaintiffs countered that if it were as easy as adding a single phrase to laws, everyone would do it to escape legal scrutiny. That would make vast amounts of legislation considered as exceptions to the single subject requirement, and the rule would carry no weight.

You cant draft out, with a few words, any responsibility, Gray said.
An audit of the Montana Board of Housing found flaws in the way the board awards housing tax credits across the state, according to a report issued earlier this month. However, the Board disputes many of the assertions in the report.

The Legislative Audit Division, a taxpayer-funded state agency, found that projects targeting the lowest income and areas of greatest need were not consistently prioritized by the Board.

The report found that Montana compares poorly with other states in how often it serves the lowest income populations when awarding housing tax credits. The audit also found the boards annual awarding of federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits is not transparent and decisions are not based on set criteria, as is industry standard. The audit also found that the boards knowledge of statewide affordable housing need is not data-informed.

Montana has an estimated shortage of over 17,000 affordable rental homes for extremely low-income renters (generally meaning households earning up to 80% of Area Median Income), the audit reports authors found.

The Montana Board of Housings award of federal tax credits to address this shortage is not in line with standard practice, the report states. To improve how awards are made in Montana, the board needs a more data-informed understanding of the statewide need for affordable housing, stronger policy incentives for developers and outreach to specific populations. Additionally, instituting a transparent, structured evaluation of projects when making awards is crucial. Given the significant shortage of affordable rental homes compared to the number of units created by the LIHTC, it is crucial the board focus on addressing the most urgent needs in Montana.

The seven-member, governor-appointed Montana Board of Housing is the state agency that decides which projects across the state get federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. Every year, somewhere between 9 and 17 developers of affordable housing projects across the state apply for the competitive 9% tax credits that are allocated to Montana by the federal government. Only about five developers are awarded every fall.

Since the program started in 1987, about 10,000 affordable rental units have been created or preserved using the tax credits. However, because so many projects have been denied the tax credits over the years because there are only so many to give out, developers have often complained when an affordable housing project in a place like Billings, for example, gets the award over Missoula.

For example, in 2018, a Missoula developer said he was extremely shocked and disappointed that the Board of Housing denied his request for $7.6 million in tax credits for a 102-unit project for seniors on limited incomes. In that instance, the Montana Board of Housing instead chose to give $8 million in tax credits for a 50-unit project in Billings.

They funded a project that is half as many units for the same number of dollars, actually more dollars, developer Alex Burkhalter of Housing Solutions in Missoula told the Missoulian at the time. Stuff like that makes it hard to swallow. Wed have been able to deliver twice the units for less money.

But the director of the Board of Housing at that time, Bruce Brensdal, said the board had to make hard choices because theres never enough tax credits to fulfill all requests.

On Monday, Amber Robbins of the Legislative Audit Division presented the report and its findings to the Legislative Audit Committee, made up of state lawmakers.

Robbins and her colleagues looked at data from all 50 states and interviewed housing officials in five other states.

We learned that the Board does not distinguish where affordable housing is most needed in Montana and the boards approach is primarily to evenly distribute tax credits across the state, she said. In contrast, some states use wide-ranging statewide data to understand statewide need. And some states such as Wyoming and North Dakota even pay to have a statewide housing needs assessment conducted.

From 2018 to 2022, a map of places where the auditors found affordable housing was most needed did not exactly match up with places where the tax credits were awarded. For example, Great Falls was listed as a higher area of need than Helena, but Great Falls had two projects funded and two not funded while Helena had three projects funded and one not funded.

We found that the board funded projects in some of the more needy areas in Montana but not consistently, she said, adding that the board prioritized geographic distribution. She also noted that many needy areas, such as from Native reservations or areas in eastern Montana, did not submit applications.

While we recognize there are factors outside the Boards control in terms of where developers choose to site projects, the Board could set more formal priorities and policy incentives that better incentivize developers to target areas of greatest need, Robbins said.

Montana ranked in the bottom third of all 50 states on the average percentage of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits serving low or extremely low-income households between 2018 and 2021.

In their sometimes fiery response letter to the report, the Montana Board of Housing used the term "strongly disagrees" several times. Montana was one of only six states that had no additional set-asides that would mean the tax credits would specifically serve Indigenous communities, for example.

The Board said they "disagree with the assertion that the Board's knowledge of the need for affordable housing is lacking or that its approach to identifying the most urgent needs for affordable housing in Montana is not adequately data informed."

"By determining areas of 'greatest need' and dictating project type or location based upon a Board study or determination, the Board would risk incentivizing less feasible, lower quality, more expensive and lower-unit capacity projects," the Board's response said. "This would undermine obtaining the maximum leverage from the Housing Credit. While needy households would be served, there is no basis from which to conclude that more needy individuals or families would be served or even served as well as under the Board's current approach."

The Board also maintains that it uses more real-time data, rather than historical data, to make informed decisions.

The Board's response said they will "consider" implementing some of the five recommendations presented by the auditors. The full report can be found online at leg.mt.gov/lad/ or attached online to this story at Missoulian.com.
A proposal by the state of Montana to capture and haul grizzly bears from northwestern Montana to the Yellowstone region will be challenged by a conservation group.

A 60-day notice of intent to sue has been sent to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service from the Flathead-Lolo-Bitterroot Citizen Task Force. The suit won't be filed if the group's grievances are addressed.

The idea of capturing, drugging and trucking grizzly bears to an unfamiliar and already occupied habitat instead of fostering natural movements is absurd, said Patty Ames, president of the Task Force, in a news release.

The group contends the translocation plan violates the Endangered Species Act's prohibitions on "taking," which includes capture and trapping. In addition, the Task Force said the agencies should have prepared an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment before undertaking any such action.

"No alternatives to the proposed action were discussed or considered nor were potential impacts to the source population analyzed and revealed," the group's attorney, Timothy Bechtold, argued.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks planned to trap and translocate grizzlies this summer, sometime between now and August, to increase the genetic diversity of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem's grizzly bear population. To help out, the agency hired two people to identify and trap the grizzlies.

"No authority for this action has been cited at all," Bechtold wrote.

The translocation was outlined in FWP's draft grizzly bear management plan. It's also one of several items contained in a tri-state agreement between Montana, Idaho and Wyoming. Under the agreement, translocation of two grizzlies was set no later than the end of 2025. Ideally, the animals would be young females.

"If effective migration is not detected, the Parties will continue to make additional translocations from outside the GYE," the agreement stated.

This plan is purely political and there has been no scientific analysis in support of it, nor disclosure of potential impacts on the NCDE source population or the likelihood of success versus natural connectivity," Ames said. "Its a cop-out on habitat connectivity and true grizzly bear recovery.

The group also argued FWP's proposal to consider translocated bears as "experimental" denies them protection under the Endangered Species Act they would have if left in place.

It's estimated the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem has a population of more than 1,000 grizzly bears. Genetic isolation for more than a century has resulted in low levels of genetic variability.

A species' decline is often based on factors such as loss of habitat or human-caused mortality, according to National Science Foundation research.

"We argue that management should therefore focus on maintaining the (Yellowstone) and (Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem) populations at or above their current sizes and encouraging range expansion through natural dispersal and/or reintroduction," the researchers concluded.

So far, there's been no confirmed instance of a grizzly bear ambling from northwestern Montana to the Yellowstone region, although more bears have been dispersing from both populations in recent years.

Montana's translocation proposal comes as officials argue grizzlies in the three-state region are no longer in need of federal protection under the ESA. Delisting the animals could lead to hunting with mortality limits based on each state's percentage of the grizzly bear population. The agreement calls for maintaining a population of 800 to 950 animals in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The United Nations said on Tuesday it has been unable to distribute aid in the Gaza Strip from the Israel-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing because of lawlessness and panic among hungry people in the area, despite Israel's daytime pause in military activity.





Israel's military said on Sunday there would be a daily pause in its attacks from 0500 GMT until 1600 GMT until further notice along the road that leads from Israel via the Kerem Shalom crossing to the Salah al-Din Road and northwards in Gaza.





The U.N. welcomed the move, U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq said on Tuesday, but added that "this has yet to translate into more aid reaching people in need." He said the area between Kerem Shalom and the Salah al-Din road was very dangerous.





"Fighting is not the only reason for being unable to pick up aid ... The lack of any police or rule of law in the area makes it very dangerous to move goods there," he said.





"But we are ready to engage with all parties to ensure that aid reaches people in Gaza, and we'll continue to work with the authorities and with security forces, trying to see what can be done to have security conditions," Haq said.





"When aid gets to a place, people are starving, and they're worried that this may be the last food that they see," he said. "They have to be assured that there's going to be a regular flow of goods so that there's not a panic when we get to the area."





The United Nations and aid groups have long complained of the dangers and obstacles to getting aid in and distributing it throughout Gaza, where the U.N. had warned a famine is looming.





Since the Israel-Hamas war began more than eight months ago, aid for 2.3 million Palestinians has primarily entered through two crossings into southern Gaza - the Rafah crossing from Egypt and the Kerem Shalom crossing from Israel.





But deliveries were disrupted when Israel stepped up its military operations in Rafah last month with the stated aim of routing remaining units of Hamas fighters. Egypt closed the Rafah crossing due to the threat posed to humanitarian work and has routed a backlog of aid and fuel via Kerem Shalom.








Kathmandu, Nepal, June 19, 2024: Second China higher education exhibition 2024 held here in Kathmandu on Tuesday.





In the exhibition, organized by China Scholarship Council and the Chinese Embassy in Nepal, a total of 31 Chinese universities participated. The exhibition was first held in Nepal in 2003.





The exhibition was held to attract the Nepalese students to pursue higher level education in China. The representatives of different universities in China held interactions with students and parents.





It is estimated that there are as many as 2,500 Nepali students are studying in China now.





"Cultural exchange and educational cooperation between the two countries have become an important cornerstone of China-Nepal relations, injecting inexhaustible impetus to building a closer China-Nepal community with a shared future," Chinese Ambassador to Nepal Chen Song said during the inauguration session of the exhibition.





"I believe that this higher education exhibition will definitely open a window of information and build a bridge for Nepali students wishing to study in China," he added.




Virginia Commonwealth University is launching a minor in practical artificial intelligence as part of its latest effort to adapt to AIs sweeping emergence, the school said this week.

The curriculum focuses on the uses and ethical considerations of AI, and students can begin taking classes this fall.

At VCU, we are committed to future-proofing our students by swiftly adapting our curriculum to meet the demands of the AI era, said Fotis Sotiropoulos, the universitys provost.

An interdisciplinary minor, the academic portfolio includes classes called Essentials of Artificial Intelligence in the computer science department, Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the philosophy department and AI in Mass Media. To earn the minor, a student has to take about six classes.

The minor benefits students in a wide variety of academic backgrounds, from future journalists to future hospital administrators, the school said. It is relevant to virtually any students path of study at VCU, said Zach Hilpert, director of the Interdisciplinary Studies Program.

Similar to its minor in AI, VCU also added a minor in mixed and immersive reality, which encompasses computer science, engineering and communication arts. It attempts to answer questions such as What happens when a crime occurs virtually? and How can video games help with chronic pain?

Students can take either minor and build them into their own customized major through interdisciplinary studies.

Every student, regardless of technological skill, has a right and responsibility to learn about AI, said Mariah Crilley, associate director of the Interdisciplinary Studies Program.

PHOTOS: Primary voting in the Richmond area
A judge rejected the City of Richmonds request to dismiss a lawsuit from two advocates who are trying to to force the release of documents related to issues Richmond restaurants are having with meals tax enforcement.

Josh Stanfield, an advocate, and Paul Goldman, a political strategist, filed a lawsuit in January in Richmond Circuit Court against Mayor Levar Stoney, Chief Administrative Officer Lincoln Saunders, Inspector General James Osuna and Director of Finance Sheila White for refusing to respond to multiple FOIA requests.

'It's a mess:' Richmond restaurants struggle with city meals tax woes Some restaurants are signing NDAs to come to an agreement with the city, others are being hit with unexpected high bills.

Richmond Circuit Court Judge Richard B. Campbell overruled Richmonds motion to dismiss the case.

Stanfield and Goldman are requesting any and all documents and communications mentioning or concerning meals tax enforcement in the City of Richmond from Jan. 1, 2017, until the present.

They also asked the finance department to provide any and all documents and communications within the Department of Finance mentioning or concerning: (1) Meals tax enforcement; (2) Penalties, fees, fines or interest as it pertains to meals, property, or admissions taxes that were ultimately reduced from the initial bill or eliminated entirely.

Without receiving a response from any party after five days earlier this year, Stanfield and Goldman decided to file suit.

My reason (for the lawsuit) is that the city didnt reply to my FOIA request. Theyre not taking the law seriously. Theyre repeat offenders, Stanfield said.
Bexar County Commissioners Court approves burn ban to prevent outdoor burning in unincorporated dry areas of the county. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News

The Bexar County Commissioners Court this week approved a burn ban that prevents outdoor burning in unincorporated areas of the county.

According to the Bexar County Office of the Fire Marshal, extremely dry conditions and heavy fuel loads prompted the ban, which went into effect immediately. It will remain in effect until the Commissioners Court or fire marshals office determines that the public safety hazard no longer exists.

According to the Keetch-Byram Drought Index, a fire potential indicator that measures the driest conditions on a scale of zero to 800, Bexar County is measuring at 445 in certain unincorporated areas as of Friday, according to the fire marshals website.

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The combination of extremely dry conditions and heavy fuel loads, along with constantly changing high wind conditions, are risk factors that can create a public safety hazard that would be exacerbated by outdoor burning, Bexar County Fire Marshal Chris Lopez said in a news release.

The ban only allows residents to burn household waste in burn barrels with metal wire mesh screens to prevent the spread of sparks and flames. It also prohibits all other outdoor burning that isnt approved by the Bexar County Fire Marshal.

A violation of the ban is a class C misdemeanor which is punishable by a fine less than $500. The burn ban doesnt prevent the use of fireworks.

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The term has become a cypher for almost any noxious political movement deemed right wing. But what is it really? And is it really a threat to American democracy?

Controversy erupted late last month when the New York Times reported that Supreme Court justice Samuel Alito once flew an Appeal to Heaven flag at his New Jersey vacation home. The paper alleged it was a symbol for a push to remake American government in Christian terms. After the story broke, a number of government bodies worked to strip the symbol from public spaces. For instance, the city of San Francisco announced that it has removed its own version of the flag from a municipal building.

The flag was originally adopted by New Englanders to show support for the American Revolution. The men who fought and died at Bunker Hill proudly flew it in defiance of British tyranny. The flag is even the official maritime ensign of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Until last week, it had nothing to do with imposing Christianity on government. But that matters little to the mediathe outrage at Alito for his choice of patriotic imagery is part of a larger moral panic about Christian nationalism.

In his new book, Whos Afraid of Christian Nationalism?, Mark David Hall contends that these liberal fears of theocracy are ill-founded. While there certainly are noxious elements o the right advocating for some kind of Christian nationalism, he convincingly argues that they remain very much in the minority. Populist authoritarianism poses real challenges to American constitutional order, but Hall demonstrates that the building threats to religious liberty should be far more concerning to the body politic.

This panic over Christian nationalism predates the rise of Donald Trump by at least a decade. Some on the left were expressing their concerns as early as 2006, when President George W. Bush and his evangelical supporters were tarred as religious extremists. Now most of the establishment media hold up Bush as a kind of elder statesman, a palatable alternative to Trump. But this only shows how far the goalposts have shifted regarding the definition of Christian nationalism.

It is true that the concept is infamously difficult to define. Is a Christian nationalist narrowly a Calvinist dedicated to theonomy or a Roman Catholic attracted to integralism? Or is a Christian nationalist simply anyone who thinks their religion should have some sort of influence on public policy, even in a benign way? Because of how politically charged the question is, Hall argues it is difficult to come to an authoritative definition of Christian nationalism.

But even with all the media attention Christian nationalism has received, few Americans actually identify with the label. Hall cites one Pew study that suggests only 5% of the American public even has a positive view of the ideology. Yet two sociologists influential in this debate, Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry, have gone so far as to assert that more than half of all Americans are Christian nationalists. Hall shows, however, that their criteria reveal more about their implicit biases against conservatives than the actual views of the public. They wind up exaggerating the toxicity of Christian nationalism and overstating the percentage of Americans who fully or partially embrace this phenomenon.

The sad fact is that much of the recent commentary and scholarship on Christian nationalism aims more at driving a political agenda than identifying what conservatism really means today. In the book, Hall takes many critics to task for flawed research and an overreliance on polemical authors. Some, for instance, overstate the influence of theonomist Rousas Rushdoonywho is, in fact, a fairly niche figure even in Calvinist circles. Very rarely do even self-consciously scholarly treatments of Christian nationalism make a serious effort to explore the origins of the conservative movement or, for that matter, religious trends through even recent history. Most of the work being done on the concept simply aims to make religious conservatives look as bad as possible.

Hall also refutes unfair claims that racism is one of the dark forces motivating religious conservatives. Although the notion is commonly asserted by critics of Christian nationalists, Hall traces it back to a disgruntled evangelical historian named Randall Balmer. His work has a number of major historical errors that Hall ably dispels, but nonetheless remains widely cited. The only conclusion one can make is that many of Christian nationalisms most polemical critics are merely arguing in bad faith.

Nonetheless, Hall remains cognizant that there really are would-be-autocrats in public life deploying Christian nationalism to justify their hunger for power. Around 2022, several public figures and writers openly embraced the label to describe their views. Among the more serious of these is political scientist Stephen Wolfe, author of The Case for Christian Nationalism. Wolfe and others in the small group of self-admitted Christian nationalists support, according to Hall, official government recognition of the truths of Christianity, as well as various coercive measures to impose their political vision on society.

One of the stranger aspects of Wolfes book is his focus on ethnicity. He seems to believe that due to some principle of similarity, no true nation can consist of multiple ethnicities. Even if Wolfe is not engaged in the most noxious kinds of white nationalism, his radical particularism concerningly mirrors the ideas of Russian theorist Aleksandr Dugin, one of the major proponents of Vladimir Putins invasion of Ukraine. The similarities between the way Dugin uses the phrase ethnos in his Fourth Political Theory and the way Wolfe uses the term ethnicity raise interesting questions about just how internationalist Christian nationalism may be. Hall unfortunately does not ask them himself, but perhaps an enterprising scholar or reporter will in the future.

Admirably, Hall does not avoid the painful fact that there are virulent racists, misogynists, and other authoritarians active on the American right. But he correctly recognizes that these factions are more diverse than you would think. Some may identify as Christian, yes, but many are better categorized as neo-pagan or even progressive. The far right is a many-headed hydra, and liberal narratives about it are often far, far too simplistic.

Toward the end of the book, Hall ventures his own definition of Christian nationalism. Limiting the scope of the term, he defines adherents as those who seek to privilege Christianity above other faiths in law and policy. This may constitute a threat to religious liberty, but it is by no means as toxic as the worst segments of the alt-right, such as those who staged the August 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. And it is clear by the end of Whos Afraid of Christian Nationalism that, wrongheaded as these genuine Christian nationalists may be, they by no means pose an existential threat to the constitutional order.

Still, Hall offers a variety of theological and prudential reasons to reject the ideology of Christian nationalism. As a scholar of American religion, and author of several impressive works on the relationship between Christianity and the Founding, Hall is well suited to offer an alternative path forward. He stresses the Foundings vision for human flourishing, a hope for a people set free to worship God and live according to conscience.

As such, Hall is defending the rightand even the dutyof religious Americans to play a role in the public square. He believes that the heart of a truly Christian politics must be the notion that all human beings are created in the image of God and deserve to have this dignity respected. Christians in America can and should advance a robust sense of freedom, including religious liberty, not just because they are Americans but also because they are Christians. The constitutional order can be legitimately interpreted as a political application of Christs Golden Rule teaching in Matthew 7:12: Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

It is disappointing, therefore, that progressive activists and their allies in the mainstream media are so eager to dismiss displays of traditional patriotism as Christian nationalism. The heritage Hall outlines toward the end of this book, and in his other scholarship, is in fact one of the greatest rebukes of tyranny and bigotry in human history. As heroic statesmen and citizens from the Founding up through the civil rights movement and beyond have shown, this country is a better place when it recognizes that every American deserves the right to an appeal to Heaven.
Blacksburg is moving forward with the renovation of a former dry cleaning business into a retail business incubator.

The town council has hired Building Specialists Inc. of Roanoke to provide design and construction services for $104,553. The project should be done by the end of 2025, said Bob Fetzer of Building Specialists.

The Blacksburg Retail Incubator is planned at 414 N. Main St., a 5,000-square-foot building that housed Cooks Clean Center, which closed. The town bought the building for $900,000 in 2015.

After the building has been improved, Downtown Blacksburg Inc. will locate there and operate an incubator to house entrepreneurs seeking to create or expand a business and provide products to the community. Officials hope to attract merchants that serve a new or underserved market. There will be room for events and receptions as well.

Incubator programs accelerate the development of successful retail businesses by providing low-cost space, exposure to mentors and consultants, technical support services, supportive marketing and events, and access to capital during the early years of the business, the town said.

There is expected to be room for from five to 12 retail establishments, according to town council member Susan Mattingly, a former president of DBI and former executive director of The Lyric Theatre who was part of group that conceived of the project going back about about eight years ago.

The town of Blacksburg has this space in the middle of our downtown and we were looking for ways to use it to benefit the community. We know that our local retailers are struggling and keeping our retail diversity is a challenge and this is something that we think will help improve that retail diversity and make Blacksburg more of a destination, Mattingly said.

It is being funded with a portion of the towns pandemic relief money under the American Rescue Plan Act. Abatement of pollutants from the property has made it safe for use, Mattingly said.

RV park proposal converted to housing

The proponents of a Montgomery County RV park near Interstate 81 plan to instead build homes, according to town records.

A year ago, automotive dealer Gary Duncan discussed a proposal to create an RV parking off Brammer Lane working with Ernie Woods. A new filing states that high development costs and lower than previously estimated revenue didnt add up to make the project viable.

The new plan is for 14 homes on lots averaging 3 acres each across a 47-acre parcel accessed by a gated, private road, a filing showed.
Pedestrians stroll along the River Walk near the Pearl on Sept. 29, 2023. Josie Norris/San Antonio Express-News

A duck was brutalized downtown in front of San Antonio Park Police, who are now pursuing harsher penalties for the man accused of strangling it.

Park police were alerted around 5 p.m. Monday that a 24-year-old man, who has not been identified publicly, was injuring a feral fowl outside of the Rainforest Cafe at 110 E. Crockett St.

Officers arrived to find the man wringing the ducks neck. They then watched him slam it down on the sidewalk, a San Antonio police report states.

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Park police apprehended the man and checked on the duck. It was lifeless, the report states. Animal Care Services later confirmed the animal died at the scene.

ALSO READ: San Antonio police say teen fatally shot his mother in the back of the head

The man was taken into custody under an emergency detention and driven to an area hospital. Emergency detention is used when police believe someone is mentally unwell, a danger to themselves or others, or cannot meet basic needs.

ACS spokeswoman Lisa Norwood said Tuesday that police may move forward with cruelty to wildlife charges.

The aftermath, however, caused some friction between Henry Bassuk, president of the San Antonio Park Police Officers Association, and the Bexar County District Attorneys Office.

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On Tuesday, Bassuk issued a statement that the district attorneys office directed the police officer to write a ticket or let the suspect go. Bassuk said he is calling on the district attorney to revisit his teams actions and prosecute this crime to the fullest extent of the law.

Our District Attorneys Office needs to hold criminals accountable and not write tickets or ignore crime thinking it will just go away, Bassuk said. We have encountered the brutal killing of ducks on the Riverwalk in the past, and our community has loudly voiced their outrage at this violent and disgusting behavior.

Bassuk said the duck experienced a horrific death after its neck was wrung, its body was slammed against the concrete, and it was stomped on. The police report, however, does not mention the stomping.

Crimes of this nature, where helpless animals are brutally killed, often are warning signs of a potential escalation of criminal behavior in the future, he wrote. This person must be prosecuted!

In response, Pete P. Gallego, assistant criminal district attorney, said no formal case involving the death of a Maccabi duck had been filed with the Bexar County District Attorneys Office.

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In conversation with the San Antonio Park Police, our office was solely asked for an opinion on which provision of law applied to the killing of the duck, Gallego wrote.

He said the office referred park police to an applicable San Antonio city ordinance, the violation of which is a Class C misdemeanor.

The Texas Penal Code section regarding cruelty to livestock animals applies to native or nonnative fowl commonly raised under agricultural practices, Gallego wrote.

He continued that the penal code provisions dealing with cruelty to non-livestock animals are expressly inapplicable to any uncaptured wild living creature.

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FILE PHOTO: FILE PIX: Exterior of wine and beer shop in New Delhi, India

By Arpan Chaturvedi and Tanvi Mehta

NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Indian authorities said on Wednesday they were impounding a Som Group distillery and temporarily suspending the plant's manufacturing licences after the federal child rights agency found 59 children working at the site illegally.

Police launched an investigation into Som after the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) last week found 39 boys and 20 girls working at the factory. The agency also released photos of children's hands it said showed burns due to contact with chemicals.

"We have sent the police force to ensure there are no issues during the sealing process," Vikas Kumar Shahwal, a senior Madhya Pradesh police official, told Reuters.

The state government said in a separate order it was temporarily suspending the plant's manufacturing licences and had asked the labour department to investigate the matter.

Som did not respond to a request for comment.

In a statement to the stock exchange earlier this week, Som Distilleries and Breweries Ltd said the issue was related to a plant run by its "associate private limited company" which used labour supplied by contractors, who may not have carried out proper age checks.

Their services have been terminated, Som said, adding it was cooperating with the authorities. The company's shares have fallen 7% this week.

Some of the children found working at the distillery were transported to the factory in school buses, NCPCR Chief Priyank Kanoongo told Reuters on Wednesday.

"They were enrolled in a school and would come in school buses. So people thought they were going to the school, but they worked in the liquor factory," Kanoongo said.

Som is one of the smaller distilleries in India's thriving alcohol industry, where both foreign and domestic players operate. Its website describes it as an "internationally acclaimed brand" available in over 20 markets including the United States, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

Child labour is a concern in India. In 2021, Reuters reported that an external audit of two Carlsberg warehouses had found underage labourers at a location in the eastern Indian state of Jharkhand.

Carlsberg at the time said "the third-party provider was terminated immediately in 2018 following the findings in the internal report."

(Reporting by Arpan Chaturvedi; Additional reproting Jatindra Dash and Indranil Sarkar; Editing by Aditya Kalra, Miral Fahmy and Mark Potter)
SHELDON, Iowa -- Two men have been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a woman in a Sheldon hotel room.

Said Tanai, 31, of Sergeant Bluff, and Hazrat Khafir, 30, of San Antonio, Texas, were arrested Saturday and booked into the O'Brien County Jail on charges of second-degree sexual abuse and false imprisonment. Bond was set at $26,000 for each.

According to court documents, at about 8:23 a.m. Saturday, Tanai and Khafir threatened the woman, held her against her will and prevented her from leaving the hotel room, where they performed a sex act with her without her consent.
Emmanuel Mora, 37, died while being booked into the Bexar County jail on Aug 27, 2023. Bexar County Sheriff's Office

The family of a 37-year-old man who died in police custody filed a federal lawsuit against two Bexar County deputies for using lethal force.

On Friday, attorney Daniel Packard filed a civil lawsuit against deputies Joseph Hernandez and Bobby Santo-Domingo in the death of Emmanuel Mora. Moras family members, including his mother and two kids, are seeking damages like financial loss and mental anguish.

The family also wants punitive damages for gross negligence/malice.

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Mora was arrested by the Balcones Heights Police Department on Aug. 27, 2023, and charged with drug possession. During the intake process, the Bexar County Sheriffs Office said he began acting agitated and refused to be searched.

deputies used a stun gun on Mora twice while attempting to put him in handcuffs. The footage shows Mora shouting several times as the deputies try to calm him down. Courtesy Bexar County Sheriff s Office

According to the custodial death report, booking staff asked for help, and Mora was placed in handcuffs and leg restraints. Shortly after, a nurse attempted to obtain his vitals, but Mora was unresponsive. Staff administered two doses of Narcan, but it appeared to have no effect.

Mora later died at the Bexar County jail.

ALSO READ: Air Force summons 13 generals to San Antonio as possible jurors in rape trial

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While the report states that Mora died from cocaine and methamphetamine intoxication, Packard believes the deputies actions were a contributing factor to his death.

The lawsuit alleges that Hernandez and Santo-Domingos actions while Mora was in custody were completely unnecessary and excessive because he was not a danger to anyone. It states that both deputies put him in a hog-tied position while he was experiencing a drug-induced delirium.

In a video obtained by KSAT, deputies used a stun gun on Mora twice while attempting to put him in handcuffs. The footage shows Mora shouting several times as the deputies try to calm him down.

During the back-and-forth, one of the deputies said,  If he keeps it up, were going to put him prone and sit on him. Once the deputies have Mora on the ground, one of the deputies sits on top of Moras legs while holding his cuffed wrists. The other deputy continues to instruct his colleague.

Mora was in that position for more than three minutes before he went limp and unresponsive.

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Packard said that placing Mora in the hog-tied position while the deputy applied a large amount of his weight on Moras chest made it extremely hard for him to breathe. He believes Hernandez and Santo-Domingo knew that putting Mora in that position while he was experiencing an episode constituted as lethal force.
Thanks to the efforts of Black Lives Matter protesters, and to Americas ongoing reckoning with police brutality and entrenched racism, more Americans who arent black are hearing about Juneteenth this year. (No, President Donald Trump, its not all about you.) Gov. Ralph Northam introduced legislation to make June 19 a paid state holiday in Virginia; companies like Twitter and Square (and Slate!) gave their employees the day off; Google added it to its calendar of U.S. holidays.

The story of emancipation contains within itself a story of white failure.

Juneteenth, our former colleague Jamelle Bouie wrote in a 2014 argument for the addition of the day to the calendar of federal holidays, is a celebration of emancipation but also a celebration of the commitment to liberty and equality. This ideathat the days significance lies in our stated commitment, not necessarily our accomplishmentsshould be key to our celebration. As Bouie pointed out, the concept of Juneteenth resonates in part because the day fell in 1865, two-and-a-half years after the date of the Emancipation Proclamation, showing how gradual and patchwork enslaved peoples wartime achievement of freedom was. Emancipation, Juneteenth tells us, was a process.

In 2020, in the middle of a pandemic and recession that have been way worse for black people, Im thinking on Juneteenth about how the fable of emancipation contains within itself a story of white failure. Take a closer look at this Circular that Union Gen. Gordon Granger ordered placed in the Galveston Daily News on July 7, 1865, to notify Texans that all slaves are free. It was Grangers arrival in Galveston on June 19, 1865, that brought formal emancipation to Texasthe last former slave state to hold people in captivity. (Speaking of the patchwork nature of liberation, some people from other parts of the South even brought those they held in bondage to Texas, to be able to retain their property for longer.)

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As a document of Juneteenth, Grangers Circular foreshadows how reluctant the North was going to be to support the freedpeople in their freedom. The first paragraph of the notice speaks of absolute equality between former masters and slaves, and tells the newly minted employers that cruel treatment or improper use of authority would not be tolerated. (That last part feels like a near-criminal misreading of the nature of this interpersonal situation.) But the bulk of the text is aimed not at former masters, but at freedpeople.

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No persons formerly slaves will be permitted to travel on the public thoroughfares without passes or permits from their employers.  They will not be subsisted in idleness, or in any way except as employees of the Government, or in cases of extreme destitution or sickness.  Idleness is sure to be productive of vice.  No person, white or black  able to labor, will be subsisted by the Government in idleness, and thus hang as a dead weight upon those who are disposed to bear their full share of the public burdens.

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This is part of the story of emancipation, too: the way that white Northerners extended a provisional vision of freedom, while requiring hard labor, under whatever terms possible. In the 19th century, the brutal folk adage root, hog, or diea reference to the practice of turning pigs into the forest and letting them fend for themselvesreminded Americans that they must be self-reliant or perish. Approaching Reconstruction, mixing the ideology of free labor with a dose of racism, the federal government made it clear that Northern whites would not make an exception to this rule of self-reliance for the formerly enslaved.

The reluctance to assist was an artifact of cultural belief about individual responsibility, but it was a function of Northern whites racism. In her Beyond Redemption: Race, Violence, and the American South After the Civil War, historian Carole Emberton writes that a protective impulse among Northerners who wanted to shield freedpeople from abuse and intimidation in their relationships with their former masters brushed up against an equally strong impulse to discipline ex-slaves, to reform their degraded spirits and control their laboring bodies. Northerners, even some of those who were working for the Freedmens Bureau and were ostensibly on the freedpeoples side, were wary of offering material support for people who were going through a great upheaval. Even under these most extreme circumstances, they feared the strings-free fulfilling of basic needs like food and shelter would lead to dependency.

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Northerners, Emberton argued, also had limited sympathy for freedpeople because they had the idea that black suffering would be a condition of freedomthat the formerly enslaved must also pay a price for their liberation, which came at the cost of so much Union blood. Emberton cites words from Capt. Charles Soule, a Freedmens Bureau agent in Orangeburg, South Carolina, who spoke to freedpeople in June 1865, the same month that Granger showed up in Galveston. He thought the people he was charged with caring for were asking too muchshelter, food, medical careand told them that suffering was their lot. You are now free, but you must know that the only difference you can feel yet, between slavery and freedom, is that neither you nor your children can be bought or sold, Soule said. You may have a harder time this year than you have ever had before; it will be the price you pay for your freedom.

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Because the Freedmens Bureau believed that the quickest way to get freedpeople supporting themselves would be to incorporate them into the workforce as soon as possible, they tried everything they could to match people with jobs, including moving them from state to state, writes historian Jim Downs in Sick From Freedom: African-American Illness and Suffering During the Civil War and Reconstruction. Accustomed to a model of social order that regarded a male laborer as a support for a family, officials from the North thought of the formerly enslaved as healthy, unencumbered men, who could work in the fields for their daily bread. This left many people who didnt fit this description, or werent supported by anyone fitting this description, without any subsistence at all. As a consequence, elderly, young, sick, or disabled freedpeople, not to mention mothers caring for young children, struggled. While some Northerners involved in Reconstruction, especially those working for benevolent associations, recognized this problem and tried to help, most didnt.

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Frederick Douglass said in a speech in Elmira, New York, in 1880, after Reconstruction had ended, that the old master class is today triumphant, and the newly-enfranchised class in a condition but little above that in which they were found after the rebellion. To explain this, Douglass pointed back at the very moment of emancipation, and the fact that freedom didnt come with material support. The old master class was not deprived of the power of life or death, which was the soul of the relation of master and slave, Douglass said. They could not, of course, sell their former slaves, but they retained the power to starve them to death, and wherever this power is held there is the power of slavery.

This is an angle on the story of Emancipation that is hard to read about. Its one thing to believe that Reconstruction failed because of Southern reactionary intransigence, and Southerners liberal use of suppressive violence against the formerly enslaved among them. Its another to realize how parsimonious and begrudging the North was to the people who were suddenly free, but who had nothingand how that lack of support dragged freedpeople down, right from the beginning. This, too, is part of Juneteenth, especially for white peopleor it should be.
Editors note: This story was first published by the Texas Observer in 2001. We are reprinting it here with permission, along with the following note from the author:

Every time, every single time, a black person loses his or her life at the hands of the police, I think back to what happened at Lake Mexia in Texas on Juneteenth of 1981, haunted, still, by the questions I have never been able to fully find the answers to. But I keep trying. I never give up. Its not in my nature. On Thursday morning, I emailed Kenny Elliott, the lead officer in charge that evening, the one who was trying to rise up and accumulate badge weight in the view of a colleague and who was a wild man in the view of another. He moved away from Limestone County not long after the incident and the trial, and went on to have a long career in law enforcement in Brazos County, where he is now a judge, a justice of the peace, which strikes me as both ironic and wrong. I asked Judge Elliott in my email what, upon reflection, he might have done differently that evening if he had the chance? I dont expect to hear from him, in part because earlier attempts to reach him were unsuccessful, attempts that were not received kindly, to say the least. To my mind, this has always been something he has been trying to outrun, and talking with David Drummond (another of the three officers who went to trial) and others at the time I wrote the piece republished below has never convinced me otherwise. Carl Booker. Steve Baker. Anthony Freeman. The Comanche 3. Their names should be evoked and not forgotten. Especially on Juneteenth. -Jonathan Coleman, June 19, 2020

If you head east out of Waco, past the spot where the Branch Davidian complex used to be, in less than an hour you will find yourself in the little town of Mexia, home to some of the finest peaches you could ever hope to taste and where, 20 years ago this week, on Juneteenth to be precise, three black teenagersCarl Baker, Steve Booker, and Anthony Freemanlost their lives in the most senseless, tragic way.

All three had been out at Comanche Crossing, on the shore of Lake Mexia, celebrating the day, June 19th, 1865, when a Union general named Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston with the news that Americas last remaining slaves, more than 200,000 in all, were no longer in bondage. The Emancipation Proclamation had been issued nearly two and a half years earlier. The Civil War had been over for 71 days. But the sweet, resounding word of freedom had not made its way to Texas until Granger brought it.

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With race relations continuing to be our countrys most confounding dilemma, with racial profiling seeming to replace affirmative action as the new buzzword, and with efforts to seek reparations for slavery still very much alive, it is more crucial than ever that all Americans become aware of Juneteenth (as it has come to be called), a day that is marked in many cities and towns throughout the country by street fairs and parades, by all manner of dance, food, music, and drink. But in Mexia, where one of the first Juneteenth celebrations in America was ever held, it will forever be marked by the night that these three boys died in the custody of three officers, under circumstances that remain troubling to this day.

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They were arrested for possession of marijuana and put into an aluminum fishing boat, to be transported to the other side of the lake, where the Limestone County Sheriffs Department had a makeshift precinct. They had been handcuffed on shore, but the handcuffs were later removedprecisely when is one of many points still in dispute all these years later. They were not given life jackets (in direct violation of Texas law) and the boat itself did not have lights (another violation). The combined weight of the six individuals far exceeded what the boat could legally carry. Within a few minutes of leaving the shore, the boat began to take on water and capsized. According to all who knew them, Booker and Baker could swim, but Freeman could not. Nonetheless, all three of them drowned, while two of the officers made it safely to shore. The third officer, who also couldnt swim, clung onto the boat. Less than a year later, after the venue had been moved three times, the officers were acquitted of negligent homicide before an all-white jury in Dallas.

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I was in Texas at the time of the incident, working on a CBS documentary about the Texas Legislature. I had never heard of Juneteenth before, but there hasnt been a Juneteenth since when I havent thought back to that night, to the way they died in no more than eight feet of water. I have made two trips to Mexia since then, trying to piece together the mosaic of what happened and why, and people there, both black and white, choose their words carefullynot surprising, really, given that I was asking about something that most of them would rather forget.

The dance hall and the tabernacle had been destroyed by fires a couple of years earlier, fires whose circumstances were as mysterious as the drownings, or perhaps not so mysterious at all.

On my first trip, in 1990, I went out to Booker T. Washington Park (the formal name for Comanche Crossing) and was dismayed by what I saw: graffiti that informed me the KKK Was Here and that N should Clear Out. In a place where streets still had names like N Creek Road, it all seemed sadly consistent. The dance hall and the tabernacle had been destroyed by fires a couple of years earlier, fires whose circumstances were as mysterious as the drownings, or perhaps not so mysterious at all.

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When I went back in 1998, I not only attended the Juneteenth celebration (which has diminished greatly in attendance since 1981), but had occasion to interview one of the three officers, the only one who would speak with me. David Drummond was an adult probation officer in neighboring Groesbeck and a former state trooper. He said what he had said at the timethat no one had acted maliciously, that it was all a terrible accident and that he had tried to save one of the boys, but the boy kept dragging him under. Arresting in that situation was probably questionable, he admitted, given the potentially hostile environment we were in. He had tried to put the whole thing behind him. But when his own daughter died in an accident just a couple of years before our meeting, he learned firsthand what it was like to lose a child.

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I spent one long evening with Carl Bakers mother, Evelyn Jean, and I learned what strength was. During a three-year period, from 1979 until 1982, she lost two children and a husband; another of her children is disabled. If Carl had just gone with me to Waco that day, she said as we sat in her curtained living room, Carls mortarboard from Mexia High School, Class of 1980, still up on the mantel, he wouldnt have been out there that night. Her abiding faith in God and her capacity to forgive notwithstanding, if there was one thing that galled her more than anything else, it was this: In all the years since the drowning, not one of the officers had ever spoken with her personally, had ever extended himself in any way.

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One of the two men who recovered the bodies talked to me about something I had never heard of before, or had at least not heard phrased in such a way. In his opinion, the young inexperienced deputy in charge that night, Kenny Elliott, was struggling, as so many young officers do, with badge weight, with trying to assert that I am the law, trying to make as many arrests as possible in order to prove his machismo and make his mark. That view of Elliottwho left the area shortly afterward but is still in law enforcement, in Brazos Countywas seconded by Patrick Simmons, the County Attorney at the time, who recalls that he was viewed as a wild man and not well liked by fellow officers. For his part, Simmons remains bothered by the repeated assertion that two of the boys were good swimmers. There was a bright moon out that night, I do know that. And if you knew where you were, where you were going, it seems you could swim to shore. But if you were scared or disoriented, well, theres no telling what can happen when panic sets in.

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No hard evidence ever came forward that the handcuffs were on the boys as they drowned. Various eyewitnesses offered opinions, but nothing conclusive. The evidence that is not there is hard to note, Judge P.K. Reiter, who presided over the court of inquiry, said to me. Everyone tried to raise somebody elses hand, but no one raised their own hand. He then paused before adding, in an apparent effort to inject some good ol boy humor, that a little paranoia is probably good for your health.

I found his last remark more chilling than humorous. Perhaps in some instances what he said is true, but not in matters of race. Too often we either hear about another case of racial profilingbe it in the affluent enclave of Mercer Island, Washington, or along Interstate 95 in New Jerseyor of some other problem erupting between the police and the black community where, to put it mildly, the police have overreacted. Cincinnati and York, Pennsylvania, have replaced Howard Beach and Bensonhurst as the new frames of reference. The specter of James Byrd, Jr. being dragged to his death in Jasper, Texas, wont be replaced by anything, nor should it be.

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At the end of my last book, a book that had its deep roots in the Mexia drownings and looked at race in America through the prism of Milwaukee, I found myself concluding with questions. If daily life is trying enough, I wrote, why, frankly, should blacks have to constantly watch their step? Why should they constantly be subjected to a different set of bells and whistles merely because they are black?

Juneteenth, arguably our true Independence Day, strikes me as being as appropriate a day as any for usall of usto reflect on and fully address those questions.
What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July? This is the question that formerly enslaved abolitionist Frederick Douglass posed in a July 1852 speech that would later become one of his most famous works. Douglasss remarks described how Independence Day, to the enslaved, was not a celebration of liberty from tyranny, but a stark reminder of their continued bondage. He explained that for the enslaved American, the 4th of July is

a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciation of tyrants, brass fronted impudence; your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery.

On Tuesday, the United States Senate voted unanimously in favor of a bill that would make Juneteenth a federal holiday. On Wednesday, the House of Representatives followed suit; the bill now goes to President Biden, who will sign it into law on Thursday afternoon. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day that bondspeople in Galveston, Texas were the last enslaved Americans in the nation to learn that they were free. (They had actually been freed two years prior, by the Emancipation Proclamation.) Congress choice to recognize Juneteenths historical and cultural significance is certainly noteworthy. Yet, in the face of ongoing racial oppression, what, to the Black American, is your federal holiday?

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The track record for federal holidays with roots in Black history isnt good. Such holidays have repeatedly been whitewashed and divorced from their original meaning. As historian David Blight has argued, some of the earliest iterations of the late-spring holiday now known as Memorial Day were borne out of ceremonies to honor Black soldiers who fought in the Civil War. In 1865, Charleston, South Carolina was home to a Confederate camp that imprisoned Union soldiers, many of whom were Black and buried in a mass grave. On May 1, 1865, after Confederate soldiers had surrendered, Charlestons Black community reburied the dead in a cemetery and decorated their graves. But few people are familiar with Memorial Days historical origins among Black soldiers and Black mourners; yearly, it seems, articles appear online to tell us about the holidays overlooked Black history.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is subject to related forms of whitewashing. The holiday was controversial when it was first proposed, but since then, things have changed. Rather than grappling with the complexity of Dr. Kings intellectual thought, particularly his increasingly leftist critiques of poverty and of the complicity of white moderates, MLK Day celebrations frequently de-racialize and de-radicalize his legacy. Rather than interrogating the conditions that motivated Dr. King to claim that a riot is the language of the unheard, Americans are far more likely to embrace an inaccurate, colorblind interpretation of his work. For instance, his commitment to peaceful protests is regularly weaponized to oppose calls for racial justice, such as the #BlackLivesMatter movement. Dr. Kings daughter, Bernice King, recently expressed her displeasure at this rhetorical strategy, writing on Twitter: I wonder how you would feel if people erroneously and arrogantly used your father to justify them being against what he was assassinated for being about.

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Given the ways that Dr. Kings lifework and MLK Day have been distorted, it seems valid to fear that making Juneteenth a federal holiday has the potential to diminish its significance, instead of generating further inquiry into the history of American slavery and emancipation. The context of the passage of this legislation gives advocates for honest discussion of Black history little reason to hope. The vote to make Juneteenth a federal holiday occurred alongside state-level attempts to ban discussions of so-called critical race theory in classrooms. At last count, 21 states have introduced bills to ban critical race theory and related topics from being taught in K-12 schools and college classrooms. Meanwhile, as Republican state legislatures pursue voter suppression laws, the 2021 For the People Actan attempt to protect voting rights for all citizens by establishing automatic voter registration for federal elections, banning partisan gerrymandering, and morefaces an uncertain road to passage in the Senate.

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Some politicians, particularly right-wing and centrist US senators, have eagerly obstructed attempts to enact anti-racist legislation like the For the People Act. Most of these same lawmakers have now voted to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. The hypocrisy would be comical were it not so dangerous: in the midst of nationwide, Republican-led efforts to eliminate conversations about the significance of race and racism in the United States, the United States Congress has, with the cooperation of most of its GOP members, endorsed legislation to commemorate the end of racial slavery. It seems clear that the goal in making Juneteenth a federal holiday is not to grapple with this countrys history of racism; it is to stifle critiques of continued racial discrimination.

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Passing a bill that would make Juneteenth a federal holiday, in this historical context, is, as Douglass stated of 4th of July celebrations almost 170 years ago, mere bombast, fraud, deception, impiety, and hypocrisya thin veil to cover up crimes which would disgrace a nation of savages. Voting in favor of this bill allows politicians to deny allegations of racism, even as they actively oppose measures that seek to redress racial harm, such as reparations, police abolition, and more. We cannot accept empty symbolism in exchange for our rights. Any attempt to commemorate the end of slavery must be accompanied by tangible changes that seek to undo its effects.
Every year in June, rainbow flags emerge on the facades of homes and businesses to celebrate Pride. The market for rainbow party favors and rainbow novelty clothing booms. In the other months of the year, rainbow bunting and rainbow crosswalks still demarcate LGBTQ+ businesses and historic gayborhoods, creating a visual map of the queer world. In other words, all across the globe, rainbow colors are a reliable signal that something homosexual is afoot.

But when the first gay rainbow flags flew over San Francisco in 1978, they werent intended to be an international symbol for a growing social movement. The story of the rainbow flag is a lot more complicated than most tellings would suggest: It starts with an anti-gay ballot initiative and ends with accusations of a decades-long lie.

First, the ballot proposition. In the spring of 1978, queer Californians were under attack. As I explore in Slow Burn: Gays Against Briggs, a right-wing backlash against the rising visibility of gay people was sweeping the country. A conservative state senator named John Briggs had filed an initiative that would ban lesbians and gays from working in California public schools. It was known as the Briggs Initiative, or Proposition 6. In an attempt to defeat it, tens of thousands of gay people came out of the closet and built a political movement that was more robust and organized than anything the countrys nascent gay-rights groups had managed before. The real showdown would come in November 1978, when Californians would cast their ballots in the first statewide vote on gay rights.

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So when gay San Franciscans began planning for Gay Freedom Day in June 1978, they wanted it to be bigger and grander than ever before. The city had already held several annual Gay Freedom Day celebrationswhich would eventually become known as Pridein commemoration of the Stonewall uprising of 1969, when queers fought back against police harassment at a New York City gay bar, jump-starting the gay liberation movement. But in 1978, with the Briggs Initiative top of mind for gay Californians, the mood surrounding Gay Freedom Day was more charged and confrontational than in previous years.

Those earlier Gay Freedom Days were controlled by the proprietors of San Franciscos many gay bars, who made the central march a kind of glorified bar crawl, says gay activist Cleve Jones, who was serving as an intern for recently elected city supervisor Harvey Milk. In 1978, Jones and other more politically-minded gays staged what he called a radical insurrection to take control of Gay Freedom Day and make it a more pointed political event. When they succeeded, they installed two new people at the head of the decorations committee: Gilbert Baker, a drag queen who was known as a whiz with a sewing machine, and Lynn Segerblom, who was working as a fabric dyer for a local fashion designer.

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Baker and Segerblom had first met at the street fair Harvey Milk had started in the Castro district, where theyd sold marijuana candy together. They were roommates for a time, and both had a strong affinity for hippie culture. Baker loved psychedelics; he said he could never truly be friends with someone who had never done LSD. Segerblom was going by the name Faerie Argyle Rainbow at the timethat was even the name on her drivers licenseand she had her closet organized by rainbow colors. I thought they were healing, or just brightening, Segerblom said of bold colors in a recent interview. They have feelings that can be transferred to people.

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Along with fellow decorations committee member James McNamara, Baker and Segerblom began brainstorming ideas for decorations for the Gay Freedom Day parade. What happened next is a matter of contention.

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Until his death in 2017, Baker maintained that he originated the idea for a rainbow flag from two sources of inspiration: First, he was wowed by the U.S. bicentennial in 1976, when flags adorned everything from chintzy souvenirs to moving works of art. He liked the idea of a flag as a statement of revolution in the U.S., France, and elsewhere, and thought LGBTQ people deserved their own marker of an insurgent identity. Then, while he was tripping on acid at a club with Jones, twirling under the disco lights and mirror ball, he got the idea to make it a rainbow. A rainbow is a beautiful freak of nature, he said, and it kind of flies like a natural flag in the sky.

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This version of the story has been retold and republished in many different ways over the past 25 years or so. Baker has been credited as the creator of the rainbow flag by history books and major institutions, including the Museum of Modern Art, which credits Segerblom and McNamara not as the flags creators but as fabricators. But according to Segerblom, Bakers story isnt true. She came up with the idea, she said, as an outgrowth of her rainbow-centric identity.

In Segerbloms telling, the Gay Freedom Day parade organizers were the ones who suggested she and Baker make a flag. They did so because near the end of the march route, participants would walk between two 80-foot flag poles at United Nations Plaza on the way to San Francisco City Hall. Baker just wanted to make bunting, Segerblom said, but the parade organizers knew someone who had the keys to the flagpoles and suggested the decorations committee make use of them. At the meeting at which the committee leaders were supposed to present their ideas, Segerblom brought her designs for a series of rainbow flags. Baker and McNamara didnt even show up, she said.

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Both Baker and Segerblom largely agree on what came next: With the help of volunteers, they dyed hundreds of yards of cotton muslin in garbage cans on the roof of the gay community center. It was a memorable experience: They needed hot water to mix the dye, but there was no running hot water at the center, so they had to heat pots of water on the stove in the buildings kitchen, then carry the boiling-hot water up a flight of stairs and a wooden ladder onto the roof. Then, they laundered the dyed strips at a dry cleaner, took them back to the community center, sat down at their sewing machines, and pieced the fabric together into 60-foot stripes.

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After weeks of work, the end result was two 60-by-30-foot flags. One had eight horizontal rainbow stripesRoy G. Biv with turquoise instead of indigo, plus pink. Baker said he assigned each of the colors a meaning: pink for sex, red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, green for nature, turquoise for magic, blue for serenity, and purple for spirit. The other flag used those same colors as the stripes on a version of the U.S. flag, with white tie-dyed stars.

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It took three people to load each flag onto the bed of a pickup truck; they were so heavy, no one was even sure they would actually flap once they made it up the poles. But on June 25, 1978, the 300,000 people who attended Gay Freedom Day in San Franciscoat the time, the biggest gay demonstration ever, and likely the largest gathering of people for any reason in the 1970ssaw a sight that captured the whimsy and joy of queer celebration, even in an era of persecution and a season of intense political anxiety: two gigantic rainbow flags, waving in the breeze.

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In the months that followed, Baker worked with the local Paramount Flag Company (where he had a paying job designing storefront window displays and decorations for special events) to create smaller rainbow flags to sell to enthusiastic San Franciscans. Then, he designed a set of rainbow banners for the 1979 Gay Freedom Day festivities. The turquoise and pink stripes were dropped, because those were premium colors that cost more to purchase from a commercial flag producer. And so the six-stripe rainbow flag was born.

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It would be several more years before the rainbow flag was adopted by the larger queer community. In 1985, a convening of Pride organizers from around the world took a vote on an official international symbol for the LGBTQ community. The rainbow flag, proposed by the delegate from San Francisco, won. Two years later, major associations of vexillologists began to recognize it as the gay flag. Over time, queer communities all over the place started to display their own rainbow flags, triggering the likes of Martha-Ann Alito the world over. The six-stripe flag remained the standard until a version with black, brown, pink, and light blue (representing queer people of color and trans people) debuted as the progress Pride flag in 2018.

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Gilbert Bakers name became synonymous with the rainbow flaghe even began going by the drag name Busty Ross. Today, the Gilbert Baker Foundation licenses his name and likeness to corporations trying to build a queer-friendly image, and donates funds in excess of its annual budget to LGBTQ nonprofits that Baker supported. Segerblom seldom appears in histories of the flag, and when she does, its a brief mention of her work dyeing the fabric and physically putting together the flags.

One reason it played out this way is that Segerblom never publicly contradicted Baker in any major way while he was alive. Also, Baker was inarguably the one who took the flag and promoted it so vigorously that it became a widely adopted symbol in the years after its creation (Segerblom moved to Japan soon after Gay Freedom Day 1978), so he became known as the rainbow flag guy. Segerblom readily gives Baker credit for that work, just as Baker gave her credit in his memoir for contributing to the construction of the flags. (Though its worth noting that the Gilbert Baker Foundation refers to her as Faerie Argyle, omitting her former Rainbow surname.)

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But this year, Segerblom has been more vocal than ever with her accusation that Baker lied about generating the idea for the flags. In a new podcast series and oral history, Segerblom and a few friends express anger at what they said were Bakers deliberate misrepresentations of how the idea came about.

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Ive asked the Gilbert Baker Foundation for comment and will update this piece if I hear back. In an interview with the Los Angeles Times back in 2018, Charley Beal, manager of creative projects for the Gilbert Baker Estate, said that Baker was effusive with credit for Segerblom and others and never claimed to have made [the flags] himself. Beal also said the notion that Gilbert passed off someone elses idea as his own is an insult to him as an artist and an insult to his legacy.

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So who made the flag, the woman who was so serious about rainbows she put it in her name or the man who was so into psychedelics that he couldnt hang with people who wouldnt try them? Honestly, Im not here to decide whether the germ of the idea originated with Segerblom or Baker. After so many years, with so many witnesses now deceased, it would be nearly impossible to reconstruct the story with certain accuracy. And in the end, the personality behind the initial design seems far less important than what it has become: a globally recognized symbol that allows LGBTQ people to find affirming spaces, friendly allies, and each other.

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But Segerbloms allegation raises a potentially awkward possibility: that the affirming emblem claimed by LGBTQ people worldwide was designed by a heterosexual. In 1978, Segerblom was dating both men and womenit was really just experimenting, she saidbut she now identifies as straight. Queer people who feel invested in the idea of a community run on LGBTQ ingenuity may be troubled by the notion that a straight woman delivered us the symbol of our movement.

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Theres another part of this story that may have been warped as its been retold through the years. It is often said that Harvey Milk specifically assigned Baker the task of creating a symbol for the LGBTQ community to rally arounda narrative that is repeated in a popular 2018 childrens book, Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag, and in Bakers memoir, Rainbow Warrior.

According to Jones, both Milk and Baker were part of ongoing conversations in San Franciscos gay community about how the burgeoning gay-rights movement needed a visual marker. At the time, the most widely used symbols for LGBTQ people were the lambda (the Greek letter L) and the pink triangle, a symbol of suffering and persecution that was used by the Nazis to mark gay people in concentration camps. There was a sense that queer people were in need of a more positive, affirming emblem that could be a beacon of hope. Nevertheless, both Joneswho maintains that Baker invented the flagand Segerblom agree that when the two committee co-chairs made the first gay rainbow flags, they werent striving for a global symbol. They were making hippie-dippie decorations for a parade.

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Related From Slate How Reporting on a 1978 Proposal to Ban Gay Teachers Changed My Understanding of Queer History Read More

In my view, this makes the story of the flag more meaningful, not less. The rainbow didnt catch on because it was voted on by some decisionmaking body, or because it was focus-group tested by some major gay organization. It wasnt dictated by any one movement leader. And it wasnt made by a single person, regardless of who invented it. It was a communal effort, and it stuck around because it resonated with people as a moment of ecstatic queer expression in the face of a nationwide anti-gay backlash.

Hundreds of thousands of people saw the flags that day, their faces lighting up as they witnessed two 60-by-30-foot feats of ambition and imagination, created and painstakingly executed just for them. The flags told queer people that they deserved everythingnot just equal rights and protection from discrimination, but frivolity, playfulness, and glamour. Baker saw the potential to carry the magic of that day into a lasting statement for LGBTQ people, then did what he could to make it stick.

As with the symbols and cultural products of so many marginalized communities, the rainbow flag has been neutered of its meaning in the decades since its creation. (It was never meant to be straightforwardly political, per se, but neither was it meant to engender fond feelings for banks and weapons manufacturers.) But its history, however contested, is a powerful reminder that this flag thats now as ubiquitous in June as the U.S. flag during the bicentennial started out as a thoroughly DIY art experiment. The people who made it in 1978 gave queer people an enduring gift: an association with creativity, bold color, and a beautiful freak of nature that brings splendor after a storm.
In Sudan, a long-building crisis has turned a political dispute between two military generals into a humanitarian catastrophe of unimaginable scale. More than 9 million people have had to flee their homes in what the International Rescue Committee called the largest internal displacement crisis in the world. Up to 150,000 are dead, radically more than earlier estimates.

Other wars and crises, particularly in Gaza and Ukraine, have made it more difficult for the urgent calls for international aid in Sudan to break through. With Sudans agriculture in ruins, and nearly all of the countrys banks robbed and emptied, famine is a real threat, as the New York Times has reported in disturbing detail. Many have already been dying from starvation, including babies. In many cases, relief efforts have been blocked by fighting, too.

In this chaos, Sudanese locals have taken up initiatives that offer a glimmer of hope. Privately funded community kitchens have sprung up across Sudan since the start of the war to help provide emergency relief to starving people. Many of these kitchens are supported by Sudanese people in the global diaspora, but they could be running out of money soon. Mohanad Elbalal, who is British Sudanese and is based in the U.K., helped to create Khartoum Aid Kitchen in coordination with his extended family members who have been displaced in the Sudanese capital. It now supports many kitchens across Khartoum in serving meals to over 10,000 people a day; out of desperation for funding, Elbalal is reliant on a crowdsourcing campaign to save lives. I called Elbalal to discuss the challenges faced by aid efforts, and how media coverage of other global crises has complicated efforts to publicly fund relief efforts in Sudan. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Aymann Ismail: Can you tell me how this effort has unfolded so far?

Mohanad Elbalal: Every Sudanese person in the global diaspora has a relative displaced or put out of work. So while their primary concern might be to support their relatives within Sudan, or to help them leave Sudan, theyre also seeing that people are beginning to starve. Maybe not immediate relatives, but lets say the shopkeeper youve known all your life, or your neighbor. So what theyre doing is theyre contacting those in their communities and saying, Were going to help you. Were going to fund your community kitchen. And the community kitchens will provide a simple meal every day, which will consist of something like fava beans or lentils. And if the kitchen has enough money coming in, it might offer rice or bread with that.

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Now, after a year of war, whats happened is the Sudanese people who have been funding kitchens have begun to run out of cash. So the threat of famine is intensifying at the same time community kitchens are closing down. Need is increasing at the same time supply is decreasing. The Khartoum Kitchen raises funds from people without connections in Sudan, who can empathize with people starving.

How did it get to this point?

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The war started in Khartoum, which is home to close to 20 percent of Sudans population. Its not only the capital, but its the center of economic production. Factories have been put out of service. Most people, especially in Khartoum, have been put out of work, so their means of living have disappeared. A question I get a lot from people is if food is too expensive. I tell them it doesnt really matter for a lot of people what the price is if they have no money to begin with. They just dont have any money to buy food.

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Another major problem is accessibility. In places in western Sudan, especially in Darfur, it is simply just too dangerous to get aid in. The RSF militia is looting aid that is destined for civilians. In Wad Madani, in central Sudan, the RSF took over the World Food Program warehouse, depriving about a million people of much-needed aid. The unfolding famine is a result of three things: Its that people simply dont have income to purchase food, the lack of security has made it hard to get aid into some places, and we have the looting of aid.

How are you keeping your volunteers safe?

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Most of our volunteers are from the communities that they are trying to help. So they are willing to take risks that, lets say, you cant ask an international aid worker to do. For example, there is a kitchen within Khartoum State, which I cant exactly specify the location of for security reasons. But the only way we supply this kitchen is by loading up a boat, crossing the river, and then loading a donkey cart that transports the food to that kitchen. In some areas of Khartoum State, its very challenging for us to supply, but we have people willing to do it.

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The army doesnt have an issue with us operating our kitchens. The issue with kitchens in RSF territory is, during the revolution, there were resistance committees which existed to oppose the regime. Then they became community activists and are now leading a lot of the volunteer work in support of their communities. In RSF-controlled areas, a lot of these volunteers are being detained or disappeared or even killed.

Have any volunteers gotten hurt yet, so far?

Ours? No. The majority of our kitchens are not in RSF-controlled areas. However, two days ago, our kitchen in Thawra, in north Omdurman, three shells landed on the street that they were serving in. It was decided that for that morning, its just too dangerous to continue the kitchen, so the people in the queue were told to go home. The shells were fired by the RSF onto the civilian neighborhoods in Omdurman. And this has been a constant problem for a lot of the war. Omdurman is relatively safe, but occasionally they have shells coming from the other side of the river and landing on civilian neighborhoods. Even in areas which are considered safe, there is danger in running these kitchens.

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Do other global crises with more international visibility, like in Ukraine and Gaza, complicate your donations-based operation? A resident of Omdurman recently told Reuters, The world is busy with other countries. We have to help ourselves, share food with each other, and depend on God. Does that reflect your experience in trying to raise funds for Sudan?

Yes. I think that quote that you shared perfectly encapsulates how the majority of the people feel. Theres a feeling that prejudices might lead people to care less about whats happening in Sudan. That this is just Africans killing Africans. Sudanese people do feel forgotten, because most people havent seen international aid. They dont blame aid workers; they just know the funding isnt there. They feel abandoned.

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Do you feel this when collecting donations? Do you feel you need to compete with Ukraine or Gaza in calling attention to the looming famine in Sudan?

Related From Slate How Far Back Were Africans Inoculating Against Smallpox? Really Far Back. Read More

We dont blame individuals. Sudan needs more coverage. You have to go onto major news websites Africa page and scroll down and see Sudan; 2.5 million people facing death by famine in three or four months is apparently not front-page news. Media simply isnt prioritizing it. I do not have a large platform, but with the platform I have, were sharing stories of the losses Sudanese people have suffered, children suffering from malnutrition, and people have engaged and have donated. I think if people are made more aware of whats happening in Sudan, I think few people can fail to empathize with a child that is starving. But the world isnt being given an opportunity to empathize with the Sudanese in the first place, because the media is heavily focused on whats happening in Ukraine or Palestine.

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And when I say this, Im not criticizing the attention being given to these people. I am just saying when these people are being covered, Sudanese should also not be forgotten. Sudan should not have attention instead of them. Its that Sudan should not be forgotten. I think theres enough space for people to care about more than just one issue.

About 2 billion euros was just pledged by European countries and also the United States. Do you expect that to make a lasting impact?

There was a Paris conference and they pledged 2 billion euros. But theres a difference between a pledge and actual donations arriving. Weve seen this in Syria quite a lot, where the pledges do not match up with the actual money that arrives. The humanitarian plan for Sudan requires 2.4 billion. Currently, its only 15.8 percent funded; 2.5 million people at risk of dying, and the international community has only raised a couple hundred million dollars. I think if we have more pressure on the international community to actually meet the pledges that they make, that would go a long way to actually helping Sudanese people.
Unofficial sellers have higher prices.

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A dubious website based in the Czech Republic has appeared in Slovakia, selling toll stickers at higher prices and allegedly planting trees to help save the planet.

"With every toll sticker purchased from us, you contribute to the planting of trees and thereby help protect the environment," claims the seller. According to the website skznamka.sk, 30 percent of profits will be allocated to planting trees.

Several websites such as this one have recently sprung up across the central European region, profiting from the inattention of customers who did not realise they had bought the sticker from an unofficial website.

Official websites Slovakia - eznamka.sk

Czechia - edalnice.cz

Austria - asfinag.at

Hungary - ematrica.nemzetiutdij.hu

Slovenia - evinjeta.dars.si

The website skznamka.sk appears similar to the official website eznamka.sk. Further down the page it states that the seller is an intermediary. Provided links that should redirect readers to data regarding the planting of trees do not work. When Sme daily contacted the seller about the data, it received no reply before the deadline.

The website is operated by the company Co2 offset based in Prague. It also operates a website selling toll stickers for the Czech Republic and Austria.

While a year-long sticker in Slovakia officially costs 60, the seller offers it at 69. When it comes to Austria, the official price is 96.40, while the unofficial is 115.40. In the case of Czechia, the sticker is sold at 2,300 Czechcrowns, but the seller asks for 2,500 Czech crowns.

Several complaints about the website operator can be found, with clients claiming that the sticker they bought online is invalid or non-functional. The company denies requests for refunds.

Some time ago, the Slovak National Highway Company (NDS) requested that the Czech police investigates the company.

So far, the website continues to operate. Moreover, they pay to appear in the top positions of Internet search engines.

According to Sme daily, the list of websites to be avoided when buying toll stickers include vintrica.com, dialnicnaznamkarakusko.sk, digitale-vignette-online.at and evignet24.eu.
Kenji Ueda has been in Slovakia for three years.

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Somewhat hidden below Bratislava Castle, the inconspicuous restaurant Rokkiu greets guests with warm wood, intimate atmosphere, and plant decoration on the ceiling.

The restaurant's opening last year did not cause as much of a stir as other of the capital's establishments in the past, which mostly rely on marketing teasing. Thus, very few people know that a chef who has cooked for the Japanese emperor himself works there.

Kenji Ueda is waiting behind the sushi bar, offers a modest greeting and seats me. His wife Yoko serves us coffee in paper cups and then disappears into the kitchen.

"When I was little, I wanted to be a comedian," he starts, much to my surprise. "I wanted to make people happy, entertain them. Finally, I found out that I'm neither funny nor talkative enough for that," he adds with a smile.

Cooking did not appeal to him

Kenji Ueda was born in the Japanese city of Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku.

"Matsuyama is a small town, similar to Bratislava," he explains in broken English. "It's famous for fishing and beautiful nature. Many people go there on holidays by the sea and in the mountains."

His father worked as a fisherman and was away from home most of the time. The work was hard and didn't appeal to Kenji. It was his mother who worked as a housewife who got him into cooking.

"I remember one time she asked me to help her out. I was probably still in elementary school then. I said I'd give it a try. After that, when I saw how much my family liked it, I realised that I can also make people happy with food," recalls the 48-year-old chef.

His attended Tsuji Culinary Collage in Osaka, where he obtained his chef's license at the age of 19.

"I didn't want to work after graduating. However, my father was strict and immediately found me a job in a hotel kitchen. It was very difficult - lack of sleep, almost no holidays. I wanted to quit," he describes the conditions.
The Framework Agreement on Cross-Border Telework remains relevant and widely used in labour relations, but it has its limits.

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Since its entry into force on 1 July 2023, the Framework Agreement on Cross-Border Telework has garnered support from numerous countries, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of facilitating cross-border telework in an increasingly digital world. Its signatories (among others) include Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, France, Croatia, and Austria, and their number continues to expand. The Framework Agreement has also applied in Italy since January 2024, in Lithuania since May 2024, and in Ireland since June 2024.

What has the Framework Agreement brought, and whom does it cover?

This multilateral agreement is applicable in cases where an employer is based in one country and an employee performs telework in another country, and both these countries are signatories to the Framework Agreement.

The Framework Agreement provides an option for employees to remain covered by social security in the employer's country if the conditions set out in the agreement are met, subject to an application. These rules apply only to employees who perform part of their work, ranging from 25 percent to 49.9 percent of their total working hours, in their state of residence by means of information technology, and the rest in the state of the employer's registered office.

The Framework Agreement does not apply to self-employed persons, employees engaged in other gainful employment in another state, or employees who usually carry out an activity other than cross-border telework in their state of residence.

What is the procedure?

Slovak employers must address an application to the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family of the Slovak Republic. The applicability of Slovak social security legislation can be requested for a maximum of three years, with the possibility of reapplying after that period. The Ministry will inform the competent authority in the other signatory state concerned. If that authority grants the request, the Ministry will approve the exemption, and inform the employee, the Social Insurance Office and the Health Care Supervisory Authority in writing. The employee may then apply to the Social Insurance Office for issue of a PD A1 form.

Possibility of granting an exemption retrospectively

The Framework Agreement allows retroactive exemptions. This enables employers and employees to regularise their status even if they did not initially apply for an exemption. This retrospective aspect provides a significant grace period, encourages compliance, and reduces the administrative burden for those who may not have been aware of the new regulations when they came into effect. The key requirement is that the request for exemption must be submitted by June 30, 2024.

Such an additional application may be submitted if the retroactive period does not exceed 12 months, and social security contributions have been duly paid for the employee in the signatory state in which the employer has its registered office or place of business, or the employee was otherwise covered by the social security system of the signatory state during that period.

Examples Since theory is better understood when illustrated by concrete examples, a few scenarios are listed below: Scenario 1 An employee is employed by an Austrian company and is teleworking full-time from home in Slovakia. As the employee teleworks from his country of residence for more than 50 percent of his total working hours, he is not covered by the Framework Agreement and must therefore be covered by social security in his country of residence. Scenario 2 An employee is employed by an Austrian company and is teleworking part-time for 40% of his total working hours from home in Slovakia. As the employee teleworks from his country of residence for less than 50 percent of his total working hours, he is covered by the Framework Agreement and can apply for the exemption to be covered by social security in the country of the employers registered office. The application must be addressed to the competent authority in Austria. Scenario 3 An employee is employed by a Czech company and is teleworking part-time for 20% of his total working hours from home in Slovakia. As the employee teleworks from his country of residence for less than 25 percent of his total working hours, he is not covered by the Framework Agreement and cannot request the exemption; therefore, he is subject to social security in the country where his employer is based. Scenario 4 If an employee is teleworking for a Slovak employer for 45 percent of his total working hours from home in a country that has not signed the Framework Agreement, he is not covered by the Framework Agreement, and in general, he must be covered by social security in his country of residence. However, it is possible to apply for an exemption under Article 16 of Regulation (EC) 987/2009 on the coordination of social security systems, which could allow him to be insured in the country of the employer. Such requests must be approved by both states in question.

Conclusion

The Framework Agreement for cross-border telework represents a forward-thinking approach to modern employment practices, recognising the realities of remote work. This agreement not only simplifies administrative processes but also fosters a more flexible and dynamic working environment in an increasingly interconnected world.

Finally, it should be noted that this agreement focuses exclusively on the issue of social security. It does not address questions of the application of tax law and the determination of the state in which income tax is to be paid on behalf of the employee.

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Drone production to ramp up in eastern Slovakia, the chef who cooked for the emperor of Japan.

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Good evening. Here is the Wednesday, June 19 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

Slovaks' trust in the media remains dismal

Illustrative image. (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco)

Overall trust in the media in Slovakia has fallen to just 25 percent, its lowest level in eight years, a new Digital News Report by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism has found.

"The trend for many political leaders  especially within the government  to spurn the traditional media in favour of partisan sites where they get uncritical publicity is one factor that saps public trust in traditional brands," reads the report.

Of all the monitored media outlets, public broadcaster RTVS and private news channel TA3 were the most trusted brands, with 56 percent.

At least once a week 44 percent of Slovaks watch private broadcaster TV Joj, 43 percent private station TV Markiza, and 41 percent public broadcaster RTVS. When it comes to online media, 38 percent read Aktuality.sk, 27 percent Topky.sk and 20 percent Sme.sk.

With 49 percent, the most-used social media network for news was Facebook.

The report mentions the proposed changes to RTVS by Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova (SNS nominee). It notes that RTVS staff were quick to sign a protest letter calling for the proposals to be withdrawn and claiming that they enable "the political control of RTVS by any government".

The situation at TV Markiza, which according to the report is trusted by 40 percent of people, is also mentioned. The report notes that TV Markiza's reporters have said the station's new head of news, Michal Kratochvil, tried to steer political coverage away from criticism of the current government.

The Europe-wide research was conducted using an online questionnaire at the turn of January and February; 94,943 people from 47 countries took part in it.

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FEATURE STORY FOR WEDNESDAY

The chef who cooked for the Japanese emperor

Kenji Ueda (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco)

Somewhat hidden below Bratislava Castle, the inconspicuous restaurant Rokkiu greets guests with an interior featuring warm wood, an intimate atmosphere, and plant decoration on the ceiling. Its head chef once served Emperor Naruhito of Japan.

Even though he has a licence to prepare the famous dish Fugu, featuring the eponymous poisonous fish, he cannot do it in Slovakia. There is a simple reason for that.

EVENT FOR FRIDAY

Stay a while and listen

The Noc Hudby (Night of Music) one-day festival in Bratislava. (Source: TASR)

On Friday evening, several streets and venues in the centre of Bratislava will play host to bands and musicians from Slovakia and elsewhere, They will perform during the one-day Noc Hudby (Night of Music) festival. The event will take place between 17:00 and 22:00 in Hviezdoslavovo Namestie square, Frantiskanske Namestie square, at Biela 6, on the stairs on Klariska Street, in Rudnayovo Namestie square, and at the skate park in Sad Janka Krala park. Admission is free. Learn more here.

IN OTHER NEWS

The European Union has started disciplinary proceedings against Slovakia and six other member states, including France and Italy, over their accumulation of debt. According to the EUs fiscal rules, national budget deficits should not exceed 3 percent of GDP. Brussels had suspended debt regulations to help countries cope with Covid-19. (Dennik N).

According to the EUs fiscal rules, national budget deficits should not exceed 3 percent of GDP. Brussels had suspended debt regulations to help countries cope with Covid-19. (Dennik N). On Wednesday, the Bratislava IV Municipal Court began hearing a lawsuit filed by Democrats party leader and former defence minister Jaroslav Nad against Deputy Speaker of Parliament (and now MEP) Lubos Blaha (Smer). The dispute concerns the defence cooperation agreement signed with the USA in 2022. Nad is seeking a public apology, and removal of all comments, videos and other posts in which Blaha accused him of treason, among other things. The Democrats party leader also wants 100,000 in compensation, which will be used to help Ukrainian refugees. In public comments has has asked why, if the agreement is so bad, the current defence minister, Robert Kalinak  Blaha's Smer party colleague  has not revoked it. (SITA)

The dispute concerns the defence cooperation agreement signed with the USA in 2022. Nad is seeking a public apology, and removal of all comments, videos and other posts in which Blaha accused him of treason, among other things. The Democrats party leader also wants 100,000 in compensation, which will be used to help Ukrainian refugees. In public comments has has asked why, if the agreement is so bad, the current defence minister, Robert Kalinak  Blaha's Smer party colleague  has not revoked it. (SITA) During a government out-of-town session, Defence Minister Robert Kalinak said that his ministry has received a new offer from France and Italy in regards to the procurement of air-defence systems. They come in addition to two offers from Israel that are already being considered. He added that a combination of the two Israeli offers may be procured in the end. (TASR)

Slovakia fully supports Moldova's membership of the European Union and offers expert assistance in relation to the accession process, Slovak Foreign Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar (Smer; right) stated following a Wednesday meeting with his Moldovan counterpart Mihai Popsoi (left). (Source: TASR)

On Wednesday, the Slovak courts were again evacuated because of a bomb threat. A phone call in Banska Bystrica Region claimed that explosives had been place in a court building. Since the caller did not provide any other details, a nationwide search is being carried out. A week ago, on June 12, a caller from Trnava Region threatened to bomb the courts. No devices were found. (TASR)

Since the caller did not provide any other details, a nationwide search is being carried out. A week ago, on June 12, a caller from Trnava Region threatened to bomb the courts. No devices were found. (TASR) According to Economy Minister Denisa Sakova (Hlas), Winkelmann Group is to launch production in the new state-owned industrial park in Rimavska Sobota, southern Slovakia, in July. The company is expected to create 450 jobs; together with all companies who plan to operate in the industrial park, some 1,500 jobs are expected to be created, offering help to a district that has long struggled with high unemployment. The company will produce hot water storage tanks, especially for heat pumps. (TASR)

WEATHER FOR THURSDAY: There will be light cloud cover, with daytime temperatures of between 27C and 32C. A level 1 storm warning has been issued for districts in northern Slovakia; see map here. (SHMU)

JUNE 20 NAME DAY IN SLOVAKIA: Valeria

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Ivan Cornejo is coming to San Antonio in September for his upcoming "Mirada" tour. Frost Bank Center

Up-and-coming superstar Ivan Cornejo is coming to San Antonio this fall in support of his new sophomore album, Mirada.

Cornejo is set to visit 29 cities starting in July. He will stop in the Alamo City on Sept. 28 at the Frost Bank Center. His new album is set to release on July 18.

Tickets will be available at 10 a.m. on Friday at the Frost Bank Center website or Ticketmaster.

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In March, Cornejo released the first single from Mirada, titled Baby Please.

Cornejo told VARIETY that he is thrilled to start this new tour, especially since he will perform in bigger venues.

Its been a while since Ive released new music, and I cant wait to share these fresh sounds and heartfelt performances with everyone. This tour feels like a celebration of all the creativity and passion thats been brewing over the past years, Cornejo said.

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Ukrainian-owned company has clients on several continents.

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A new line for production of drones for civilian applications has opened in the industrial park in the village of Haniska, near Presov, eastern Slovakia. The line belongs to the company Tropozond, which is owned by the Skyeton Group, a Ukrainian manufacturer of unmanned aerial systems based in Estonia.

At present, the company has invested 3 million and employs 26 people. By the end of next year, it expects to have as many as 200 employees. It is currently looking for qualified people to recruit.

According to Skyeton CEO Alexander Stepura, the company had been looking for a country with a developed industry and enough qualified employees.

"As a Slavic country, Slovakia has a similar culture to Ukraine, where we already have one factory. We know we can find capable and qualified people here much faster than in any other country," said Stepura.

Skyeton has customers on several continents. The first Raybird drones from Presov Region are to be sent to the United Arab Emirates, where they will be used to monitor oil pipelines.
The NIHO was established to assess costs in the health sector.

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Health Minister Zuzana Dolinkova (Hlas) is bringing another previously independent institution under her direct control, reports the Sme daily.

Last week, the governing coalition approved an amendment to the Act on Health Insurance Companies, according to which the head of the National Institute for Value and Technologies in Healthcare (NIHO) may be dismissed by the government upon a proposal by the health minister, at any time and without cause.

The NIHO was established to assess costs in the health sector and to help ensure the state pays less for medicines and medical devices. In order to be independent, its head was appointed by a group of experts. Last year, it managed to save up to 111 million for the state. For example, the NIHO re-evaluated pharmaceutical companies' drug price offers and managed to significantly reduce them.

However, if a politician or business group expresses is unhappy with the agency's actions, the minister will now be free to dismiss the head of the NIHO at any time.

From now on, only a doctor or pharmacist will be able to apply for the post. If the current director, Michal Stanak, were to be dismissed, he would not be able to re-apply since he is neither. Stanak is an expert in the evaluation of medical technology.

The amendment is to apply from August.

Change no one saw

On Tuesday last week, the draft amendment was discussed by parliament's health committee. The changes proposed by the coalition were mostly acceptable to the opposition MPs. However, on Wednesday morning Hlas party MP Zdenko Sloboda announced during the session that he wanted to propose an amendment. He then read it out and called for an immediate vote on it. According to Tomas Szalay, an MP for the opposition party Freedom and Solidarity (SaS) who is also a health expert, no one saw the proposed amendment in its written form.

Sloboda proposed that the minister should be able to dismiss the head of the NIHO without giving any reason, that only a doctor or pharmacist could lead the agency, and that the Health Ministry should have more influence over the committee that selects the office-holder.

Progressive Slovakia (PS) MP and health expert Oskar Dvorak pointed out that the amendment will effectively allow the government to appoint its own nominee, for example from a pharmaceutical company, which could lead to a direct conflict of interest.

Minister: No more 'discrimination'

Dolinkova defended the change by saying that until now only a very limited number of people could participate in the selection process and pointing out that last time there were only two candidates, neither of which had a formal education in medicine or pharmacy. The amendment abolishes these "discriminatory conditions", she asserted.

Szalay opposed the changes, saying that the minister was lying and that doctors and pharmacists were already able to apply for the job. However, now no one else will be able to do so.

In February, the government dismissed Renata Blahova from the post of head of the Healthcare Supervision Office based on the health minister's proposal. According to Dolinkova, Blahova failed to address fundamental issues in the health-care sector, repeatedly overstepped the legal powers of the office, and didn't meet the qualification requirements for the post as set by the law.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240618/un-participating-in-swiss-conference-on-ukraine-unacceptable-under-un-charter---nebenzia-1119016821.html

UN Participating in Swiss Conference on Ukraine Unacceptable Under UN Charter - Nebenzya

UN Participating in Swiss Conference on Ukraine Unacceptable Under UN Charter - Nebenzya

Sputnik International

Russia regrets that the UN participated in the conference on Ukraine under an observer status, an act contrary to the UN Charter, Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzya said.

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"We regret that at these gatherings there was the participation of representatives of the UN Secretariat, calling it participation as an observer. This is unacceptable conduct under Article 100 of the UN Charter," Nebenzya said on Tuesday during a UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine. Article 100 of the UN Charter stipulates that the UN secretary-general will not seek or receive instructions from any government or from any other authority external to the organization in performing their duties.The UN secretary-general and staff will refrain from any action which might reflect on their position as international officials responsible only to the United Nations, according to Article 100 of the UN Charter.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240617/effectiveness-of-swiss-hosted-summit-on-ukraine-tends-to-zero---kremlin-1118995876.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240619/canadian-sanctions-over-navalnys-death-based-on-groundless-accusations---ambassador-1119016941.html

Canadian Sanctions Over Navalnys Death Based on Groundless Accusations - Ambassador

Canadian Sanctions Over Navalnys Death Based on Groundless Accusations - Ambassador

Sputnik International

The latest sanctions imposed on Russian individuals over their alleged ties to the death of Navalny are based on groundless accusations, Russias Ambassador to Canada Oleg Stepanov told Sputnik.

2024-06-19T00:01+0000

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Earlier in the day, Global Affairs Canada announced that Ottawa had imposed sanctions on thirteen high-ranking employees of Russias investigation agency, penitentiary service, and police force, over their alleged involvement in Navalnys death. The measures were also taken in response to what Ottawa considers to be Moscows gross and systematic violations of human rights.While Russia is not at all bothered by such posturing by the government of Canada, Tuesdays sanctions won't be left unanswered by Moscow, and Canada can expect retaliatory steps on the basis of reciprocity, Stapanov added. On February 16, 2024, the Russian prison service said Navalny died while incarcerated, adding that an investigation into the cause of death was underway.US President Joe Biden said on the same day that the United States does not know how Navalny died, but nevertheless blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for it. The Kremlin has called the statements by Biden and other Western politicians outrageous and unacceptable.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240619/erdogan-expects-to-discuss-ukraine-with-putin-on-sidelines-of-astana-sco-summit---reports-1119028293.html

Erdogan Expects to Discuss Ukraine With Putin on Sidelines of Astana SCO Summit - Reports

Erdogan Expects to Discuss Ukraine With Putin on Sidelines of Astana SCO Summit - Reports

Sputnik International

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expects to hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the SCO summit, Turkish broadcaster Habeturk reported, citing sources.

2024-06-19T22:11+0000

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The broadcaster reported late on Wednesday that Erdogan will continue state visit after Islamic holiday Eid al-Adha, and the first stop will be Kazakhstan. Erdogan was invited to the SCO summit in Astana as Turkiye is a "dialogue partner" of the international organization.The Turkish president is expected to discuss Turkiye's relations with the organization's member states and hold consultations on bilateral relations, especially in energy and trade, the report cited sources as saying.Erdogan will meet with the Russian president on the sidelines of the summit as well, the broadcaster reported. The Turkish and Russian leaders are expected to discuss the Ukraine conflict, the expansion of the Black Sea grain initiative, the latest situation in the construction of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant, the gas hub and the election initiative of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK, banned in Turkiye as a terrorist organization) and the People's Defense Units (YPG) in northern Syria, sources told the broadcaster.Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said on Monday that Putin and Erdogan may meet on the sidelines of the SCO summit if the Turkish president travels to Astana. He added that the meeting "is really overdue, and this is understood both in Moscow and Ankara."

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240619/on-israel-white-house-lives-in-parallel-reality-1119016586.html

On Israel, White House Lives in Parallel Reality

On Israel, White House Lives in Parallel Reality

Sputnik International

The United States continues to insist it is Hamas that is standing in the way of a ceasefire in Gaza, despite Israeli officials publicly calling for a long war.

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Hezbollah and Israel have been exchanging fire since Israel launched its siege on Gaza following Hamas surprise attack on October 7. Hezbollah said it launched its campaign in response to Israels actions in Gaza and that it will stop once a ceasefire is implemented in the area.Hochstein stated that Hamas needs to just say yes and accept the ceasefire deal outlined by US President Joe Biden nearly three weeks ago. Those comments are part of a trend among high-ranking US officials that Israel has accepted the ceasefire deal and only Hamas is preventing a pause in fighting.While Hamas has reportedly made some amendments to the deal, it has responded positively while Israel has refused to say if it will accept it and promised to keep fighting until Hamas is defeated. Israeli officials have also refused to confirm if the ceasefire deal presented by Biden was their creation, as US officials claim.Just today, a top Israeli negotiator told the Israeli media that there would be absolutely no room to negotiate any of the amendments that Hamas asked for in response to the ceasefire proposal, Carrillo explained, adding that the negotiator said the war will continue after the Israeli assault on the southern city of Rafah is completed. These are their words. This is not anybody putting words in their mouth.While the US continues to provide political cover for the Israelis by insisting that Israel has accepted a deal, its officials have been clear that they expect their actions in Gaza to continue for the foreseeable future. The day after Biden gave his speech outlining the ceasefire deal, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted that their conditions for ending the war have not changed. Days earlier, Israeli national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi said Israel expects at least another seven months of fighting, extending the killing until 2025.An estimate by the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) said that they expect the war to continue until 2026 and that a full-scale war with Lebanon will begin in September.In 2006, Israel and Hezbollah fought to what is generally described as a tie, with more than 1,200 IDF soldiers wounded and another 120 dead, including the two soldiers who were captured at the Zarit-Shtula incident, Israel failed to meet its objectives in that conflict and in the meantime Hezbollah has become increasingly sophisticated and powerful.This is what the US has also been warning them, Carrillo said. Its time to de-escalate the North because youre going to get your asses kicked.On Tuesday, Hezbollah released drone footage of Haifa and other parts of northern Israel, highlighting critical Israeli military and civilian infrastructure, including weapon depots, military bases and sea and airports.Netanyahu said earlier this month that his country is prepared for a very intense operation against Lebanon.Haifa, about 17 miles (27km) from the closest Lebanese border, is Israels most active port. Its importance has increased since the Ansar Allah (Houthi) movement in Yemen successfully shut down the Port of Eilat through its blockade of Israel in the Red Sea.More than 60,000 Israelis have been ordered to evacuate from communities near the border with Lebanon, and many of the towns have been virtually abandoned since October.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240618/dreadful-horrible-unspeakable-gaza-war-to-surge-even-after-cabinet-dissolved-1119000265.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240619/president-putin-arrives-to-fanfare-in-dprk-1119017262.html

President Putin Strengthens Ties with North Korea in Official Visit

President Putin Strengthens Ties with North Korea in Official Visit

Sputnik International

Mark Sleboda, a Moscow-based international relations security analyst joined the Critical Hour on Tuesday to discuss Russia and North Koreas recent partnership.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin approved a new comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with North Korea on Tuesday, Sputnik reported. While the signature is primarily symbolic," one analyst told Sputnik, the accepted proposal will outline the prospects for further cooperation and will be seen as a global message to others.Mark Sleboda, a Moscow-based international relations security analyst joined The Critical Hour on Tuesday to discuss Russia and North Koreas recent partnership.Putin has arrived in Pyongyang with a pretty heavy delegation, Sleboda said. In many ways a bit smaller, but it is also reminiscent of the very large entourage that Putin just went to China with.He said Russia has continuously supported and will support the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea (DPRK) and the heroic Korean people in their struggle against the treacherous, dangerous and aggressive enemy in their fight for independence, identity and the right to freely choose their development path. He also thanked North Korea for their unwavering support for the Russian special military operation in Ukraine, the security analyst said.The analyst said that Russias decision to sign a strategic partnership is reminiscent of what many Western countries have done with Ukraine. He then added that North Korea has long been a thorn in the US side since they began developing nuclear weapons. In May, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev warned that Ukraine and its allies would receive a devastating response to the possible use of long-range Western weapons on Russian territory.Not only, of course, was that recent comment from Medvedev, but last year, South Korea - not openly admitting it, but Korean and US officials have leaked confirming this to the press - that South Korea transferred millions of artillery shells to the US to hand off to Ukraine for use in the conflict there, Sleboda claimed.That was instrumental for the Kiev regime to launch its failed NATO proxy summer counteroffensive last year. Those were largely South Korean and also Japanese shells.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20240617/putin-russia-highly-values-north-koreas-support-in-conducting-operation-in-ukraine-1119000430.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240619/putins-north-korea-visit-directly-challenges-us-regional-clout-1119025861.html

Putins North Korea Visit Directly Challenges US Regional Clout

Putins North Korea Visit Directly Challenges US Regional Clout

Sputnik International

The results of the June 19 talks between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang are of paramount political importance to the entire Asia-Pacific region, experts told Sputnik.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement that aims to serve as a roadmap for future bilateral cooperation in all spheres.The document on comprehensive partnership provides, among other things, for mutual military assistance in case of aggression against one of the participants, Putin told reporters after the face-to-face talks with Kim on Wednesday. The Russian leader also denounced the "indefinite restrictions regime" imposed on North Korea by the UN Security Council (UNSC), which includes an arms embargo, as "orchestrated by the US" and urged for it to be revised. The Putin-Kim negotiations came as part of the Russian presidents June 18-19 visit to North Korea.'Full-Blown Shift in Regional Paradigm'The Russia-North Korea comprehensive partnership agreements clause on military aid stipulates allied relations between the two, Artyom Lukin, a professor of international politics at the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok, told Sputnik.The fact that Russia has inked the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement with North Korea implies that "a completely different situation is now shaping on the Korean Peninsula, and that a Russian [-North Korean military] alliance has appeared in Northeast Asia," according to Lukin.When it comes to the UNSCs anti-North Korean sanctions, Lukin underscored that "certainly, there are ways to prevent these restrictions from interfering with the Moscow-Pyongyang collaboration."Speaking to Sputnik, Dr. Victor Teo, a political scientist who specializes in international relations in the Indo-Pacific region, said that Putins proposal to review the UN sanctions on North Korea "is, of course, understandable in light of this agreement.""The problem, however, is that this is probably easier said than done because the amendments probably need to be ratified by the other [UNSC] members, one of which is the United States," the pundit added."The DPRK would be obliged to help Russia defend itself if Russia gets into a conflict with NATO countries; just as Russia would be obliged to help Pyongyang if North Korea enters into a conflict with the US and South Korea," Teo pointed out.Putin's N Korea Visit Reflects Sanctions' InefficiencyProfessor Joe Siracusa, a political scientist and dean of global futures at Australia's Curtin University, in turn, focused on the political implications of Putins visit to North Korea. In an interview with Sputnik, he said that the Russian president "is telling the Americans and the others" that his country has "not been isolated either by [Western] sanctions or by other things."Putins current visit is "the normal business of a nation," according to the political scientist."There is a common border with North Korea. It was Russian troops that liberated Korea in 1945 and supported the North Koreans in their civil war against the South Koreans. Russia has a long history of economic and security relations with North Korea. I think it's normal," Siracusa stressed.On the whole, the Russian leader's state visit to North Korea was very impressive, the pundit evaluated, pointing to the fact that Putin "got the red carpet treatment and that "Chairman Kim came out to the plane to meet him.""This is the kind of that propaganda mill that goes on in Washington with the mainstream media playing sort of the Greek chorus for the American political elite," Siracusa concluded.

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Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un Hold Talks

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un Hold Talks

Sputnik International

Sputnik comes to you live as Russian President Vladimir Putin attending the official welcoming ceremony at the Kim Il Sung Square in the North Korean capital Pyongyang.

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Sputnik comes to you live as Russian President Vladimir Putin attending the official welcoming ceremony at the Kim Il Sung Square in the North Korean capital Pyongyang.The program of the Russian leader's visit includes one-on-one talks with his North Korean counterpart Kim Jong-un. The signing of joint documents, including a new Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between Russia and the DPRK, will also take place.Putin will then lay a wreath at the Liberation Monument and attend a gala concert. On the way to the airport, the leaders will visit the Holy Life-Giving Trinity Temple, built on Kim Jong Il's, Kim Jong-un's father, personal order, after which the Russian president will fly to Vietnam.Follow Sputniks live broadcast to find out more!

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240619/russias-court-sentences-us-soldier-black-to-3-years-and-9-months-in-penal-colony-1119017770.html

Russia's Court Sentences US Soldier Black to 3 Years and 9 Months in Penal Colony

Russia's Court Sentences US Soldier Black to 3 Years and 9 Months in Penal Colony

Sputnik International

A court in the Russian city of Vladivostok on Wednesday sentenced US soldier Gordon Black to three years and nine months in a penal colony for the crimes of death threats and grand larceny.

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Earlier on Wednesday, the prosecution asked the court to sentence Black to four years and eight months in a penal colony and a fine of 40,000 rubles (nearly $470), while the soldier's lawyer asked the court to acquit him of all charges. Black told the hearing that he supported the position of his defense and declined to make a final statement. Black's lawyer, Inga Kirichenko, told journalists after the court hearing that the defense would appeal the court's sentencing. "We will appeal the sentence," she said but declined to provide further comments.In May, Russian authorities detained the US soldier on charges of criminal conduct until July 2 in Vladivostok. Police noted that the man was suspected of stealing 10,000 rubles from a woman he visited on April 10. Later in May, Black was charged with grand larceny, the press office of the Pervomaisky District Court of Vladivostok said.The soldier was stationed in South Korea before entering Russia. The US Army has started an administrative probe into his travel.

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SAPD releases body cam footage from an officer-involved shooting that occurred last month. mbbirdy/Getty Images

The San Antonio Police Department released the body camera footage of an officer-involved shooting that occurred last month.

Angel Gabriel Cuevas, 21, was fatally shot by two officers May 19 after police say he attempted to run them over.

The officers were responding to a narcotics call around 7 p.m. in the 17800 block of La Cantera Terrace. Upon arrival, a license plate reader alerted the officers to a nearby stolen vehicle.

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One officer parked his patrol vehicle behind the unoccupied stolen vehicle to prevent it from leaving while investigating the narcotics call. It was during their investigation that they saw a man get inside the stolen vehicle.

In the video, officers can be seen running toward the vehicle. As he tries to flee, the driver runs over the curb in the direction of the officers and a bystander. Both officers open fire on the vehicle and it ultimately came to a stop.

Cuevas was shot once in the head by the officers. He was later taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240619/us-air-force-failed-to-properly-assess-impact-of-retiring-some-f-22-raptor-jets---report-1119017132.html

US Air Force Failed to Properly Assess Impact of Retiring Some F-22 Raptor Jets - Report

US Air Force Failed to Properly Assess Impact of Retiring Some F-22 Raptor Jets - Report

Sputnik International

The US Air Force is planning to retire a tranche of F-22 Raptor interceptors without presenting the full implications of its decision, the Government Accountability Office cautioned.

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"The US Air Force proposed to divest - [that is] retire - its F-22 Block 20 aircraft without fully documenting the implications," the report said on Tuesday. "Block 20s are used for training and aren't upgraded with the same capabilities as the rest of the fleet."Block 20 Raptors have not been upgraded with advanced air-to-ground attack capabilities, more advanced radar, improved cockpit displays and AIM-9X and AIM-12D missiles like the rest of the F-22 fleet, the report said.Lockheed Martin, the aircraft's prime contractor, estimated that upgrades would cost at least $3.3 billion and take approximately 15 years to complete but did not provide supporting data either, according to the report.

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The Ontario Sires Stakes Grassroots headlined the card action at Woodbine Mohawk Park on Tuesday, June 18 with sophomore pacing colts and geldings completing their second leg of the series.

Each leg was worth a $20,000 purse. The sophomore pacing males return to action on July 15 at Woodbine Mohawk Park for the $20,000 third leg.

Trainer Robert McIntosh swept a pair of the OSS Grassroots splits with Always A Thrill ($5.40) stopping the clock in the swiftest division time of 1:50.3.

James MacDonald and Always A Thrill eased into fourth off the car and into the turn. As the track straightened out and the opening quarter clocked :27, MacDonald sent the McIntosh student to the top, achieving the lead from the outside at the half in :54.4. Once at the top, Always A Thrill opened up to a 5-3/4 length lead by the three-quarters in 1:21.3. His foes charged behind him and closed the gap, but Always A Thrill had enough gas in the tank to win by 1-3/4 lengths in 1:50.3. Chesterman (Trevor Henry) took second with T H Mcmurry (Louis-Philippe Roy) third.

Always A Thrill is a sophomore gelded son of Bettors Delight and the Ponder mare Somethinincredible owned by Robert McIntosh Stables Inc., Tyrone Valley Farm, and Mardon Stables. He moved his career bankroll past the six figure mark at $101,208 as he achieved his third career tally in 14 starts. In six starts this year, Always A Thrill has returned victorious in two.

McIntosh's second student, Do Better ($2.60) used a gate-to-wire trip to win his division by four lengths in 1:52.1. Sylvain Filion provided the winning drive of the Bettors Delight-West Third Street gelding for owners Robert McIntosh Stables Inc., Al McIntosh Holdings Inc., and Mardon Stables.

Lakers Bank ($8.30) took a split by a half length in 1:52.1 with Travis Cullen in the bike for trainer Tim Myers. The sophomore All Bets Off-Victorias Vett gelding is owned by Val Spar Stables.

Century Komodo ($8.50) won his split with Doug McNair in the bike for Anthony Beaton, a win by three-quarters of a length in 1:51. Domenic Chiaravalle, Gary Volpe and Cantucky Farm Inc. co-own the Bettors Delight-Michelons Filly gelding.

Three races dedicated to the Pop-Up Series, a pair of finals and a consolation, went to the gate as part of the Tuesday undercard. The Pop-Up Claiming Series was offered for $8,000 claiming pacers, both males and females.

Italia Seelster ($7.70), driven by Louis-Philippe Roy for Brett Lester, scored by a head in 1:52.4 to take the $15,000 Pop-Up Series finale for the lady pacers.

Delightful Magic ($43.60) won the $15,000 Pop-Series final for pacers by a half length in 1:52.1 with Bob McClure in the bike for Terry Gallant.

Papiamento ($11.40) won the $10,000 Pop-Up Series consolation pace from gate-to-wire by a length in 1:55 with Doug McNair holding the lines for Kayla Hendry.

To view Tuesday's harness racing results, click the following link: Tuesday Results - Woodbine Mohawk Park.

(Standardbred Canada)
Trainer Travis Alexander celebrated a miletone moment in his career with a longtime stable star getting him to the 1,000-win mark.

Alexander reached the milestone when Pleaseletmeknow won the $47,945 Open Pace on Monday, June 17 at Yonkers Raceway.

Driven by Matt Kakaley in the evening's eighth race, Pleaseletmeknow followed cover three-wide from the backfield with a quarter-mile to go and out-sprinted his fellow late-closers with a :29.1 final frame to prevail in 1:51.4 by three-quarters of a length. Birthday (George Brennan) was second and Just Bet It All (Scott Zeron) finished third.

Sent postward as the 9-2 fourth choice in the field of eight, the five-year-old American Ideal-I Said Please gelding returned $11.40 to win after the favoured Pound For Pound (Brent Holland) was parked out by Ultimaroca (Jordan Stratton) through a :53.4 front-end duel and faded to sixth.

Alexander has trained the Fiddler's Creek Stable homebred for his career. A former Messenger Stakes winner, Pleaseletmeknow has earned 19 victories in 52 starts and more than $800,000 in earnings.

Alexander is in the midst of his fourth straight seven-figure season and is on pace to smashing his career-best numbers from a year ago when his stable won 194 races and earned more than $3.88 million. His stable has already amassed more than $3.2 million this year with the milestone victory marking his 143rd seasonal score.

"How fitting that 'Paulie' gave it to us," said Alexander, referring to Pleaseletmeknow, in a social media post. "Here's to the next 1,000!"

Alexander quickly got started working towards the next milestone, adding another win to his resume on Tuesday at Pocono Downs with Courtship, bringing his seasonal UTRS to 0.428 through 510 starts.

The 45-year-old Linden, Michigan native, who recorded his first training victory in 1999, has earned $19.2 million in purses lifetime.

(Standardbred Canada; Photo of Pleaseletmeknow from a previous win)
The appeal of connecting with harness racing stars at Clinton Raceway's Legends Day event on June 30 isnt exclusive to fans. Wally Hennessey sees himself as a bit of a kid in the candy store, too.

I know them all, he said of his fellow featured drivers and guests, but I dont get the chance to spend time with any of them. I left the Maritimes 40 years ago and went straight to the U.S. So, the chance to spend an afternoon with someone like Doug Brown  a true icon  is a real opportunity. And to rub shoulders with Bill ODonnell and Ron Waples? These are the guys I was trying to emulate in my own career. Their talent and professionalism were a real inspiration to me.

Legends Day is a biennial event created by the track in 2001 to showcase harness drivers from the Canadian Horse Racing Hall Of Fame. The spectacle serves as a major fundraiser for the Clinton, Ont. community and since its inception, Legends Day has generated more than $330,000 for the local hospital and schools. This years recipient is the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation.

In addition to Brown, Hennessey will be joined on the racetrack by Steve Condren, Chris Christoforou, Sylvain Filion, Paul MacDonell, Randy Waples and Carl Jamieson. Additional special guests include Ron Waples, Bill O'Donnell, John Campbell, Trevor Ritchie and Dave Wall. Collectively, the group represents 92,435 winning drives and purse earnings of $1.4 billion.

Hennessey has been involved in the events staged in 2011, 2013 and 2019, when (despite the fact that he has driven more than 4,000 horses since that day) he vividly recalls being the beaten favourite in the Legends Trot.

They forgot to mention it was a mile race, he quipped. I was on top at the three-quarters.

Enshrined in three Halls of Fame in Prince Edward Island, the United States and Canada, Hennessey is a bona fide legend, but certainly not one of a bygone era. His achievements are prolific and current.

Hes the winningest of his fellow Legends Day drivers and special guests, with 11,685 victories and counting. At 67, he's still very active in the bike, clocking just under 1,000 starts last year. And in 2022, he drove horses to earnings of $3.1 million  a monetary milestone he last achieved two decades prior.

Just this past weekend at Saratoga, he earned 10 wins.

The winningest driver in the history of Pompano Park, Hennessey, has split his time between Florida and New York for the past few decades. He continues to do so, training babies in the sunny south during winter and heading to New York in May.

Hennessey says to receive the invitation to participate in this event is always a nice surprise.

The track puts a pile of work into it  thats obvious to everyone. And the community really responds. For me, to be approached to be a part of what they call Legends Day is really quite humbling. As a driver, its a reflection of a body of work that has taken a lifetime to achieve. Its such an honour to be included in this group of esteemed individuals on a day that does so much good for so many people.

Fans can access the Legends Day drivers throughout the day in the Hall Of Fame Tent and rub shoulders with them at the OLG Chicken BBQ dinner after the races.

New this year, the track is partnering with the Canadian Horse Racing Hall Of Fame to host an official reunion for inductees of the institution, which was created in 1976.

The race card will also feature eliminations for the Kin Pace. The Bill Galvin Racing Alliance will be onsite to showcase the Drive To Win virtual reality harness driving experience

Fundraising for Legends Day is generated through a number of initiatives, including a large online auction, 50/50 draw, raffles and donations and sponsorships. All donations and sponsorships are sent in their entirety directly to the benefitting organization. All sponsors receive acknowledgement on Clinton Raceways website, race broadcast and race program. To participate, contact Michelle Maloney by email at [email protected].

(With files from Clinton Raceway)
Even in retirement announcer Roger Huston is a busy man. On Friday, June 28, the 81-year-old will make the six and a half hour trek from his home in western Pennsylvania to MGM Yonkers Raceway in New York to call the first legs of the Standardbred Triple Crowns  the $300,000 USD MGM Yonkers Trot and $250,000 USD (est.) MGM Grand Messenger Pace.

I probably put 500 to 750 miles on my car each week, said Huston, who travels from Pennsylvania to Ohio weekly to work for the Ohio Harness Horsemens Association and also fills in at Northfield Park and The Meadows as an announcer on occasion.

Huston, a member of the Communicators wing of the U.S. Harness Racing Hall of Fame who is also well-known as the voice of the Little Brown Jug, has called more than 184,000 races in his lifetime at 160 racetracks. While some may think Yonkers Raceway will be an addition to the list, according to Huston he actually appeared there in 1995 as part of a drivers challenge promotion between Yonkers, Freehold, The Meadowlands and The Meadows.

The top four drivers at each location faced off against the hometown drivers and I went with them and called the races, said Huston.

Huston will be able to cross one race off his bucket list on June 28 as he completes the Triple Crown six-pack. The Pacing Triple Crown consists of the Messenger, Cane and Little Brown Jug, all races Huston has called in the past. The Ohio native was able to call the Hambletonian live on NBC in 1979 at DuQuoin and has announced the Kentucky Futurity on radio, but 2024 will mark the first time hes called the Yonkers Trot.

Im thrilled to add that last Triple Crown race to my long resume and Im really looking forward to it as much as I look forward to anything else, said Huston, who is known for bringing energy to every call, whether it is a $4,000 claimer or the Yonkers Trot.

Both Triple Crown races will be part of a monster card at Yonkers that will also feature the New York New York Mile and Park MGM Pace.

In addition to the special guest appearance by Huston on the microphone, fans attending the races live on June 28 will be treated to an outdoor market on the track apron. An integration of the casino and track worlds will take place as patrons from both sides of the gambling world will be welcomed to enjoy special food stands, live music and other promotional items as part of a Triple Crown Fan Fest.

Yonkers Raceway conducts live racing on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays to Saturdays with a post time of 7 p.m. (EDT).

(Yonkers Raceway)
Shown is Tropical Storm Alberto in the western Gulf of Mexico. COD Meteorology

Tropical Storm Alberto has formed in the Gulf of Mexico, the National Hurricane Center said Wednesday. Alberto is the first named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.

Maximum sustained wind speeds are at 40 mph, the minimum threshold to be considered a tropical storm. The center of circulation is located in the western Gulf of Mexico, about 350 miles southeast of Brownsville. The storm is moving slowly west at 9 mph.

The storm had been producing tropical storm-like conditions since Monday. However, it was not considered a tropical storm because there was not a tight, central circulation within the storm. That circulation was found Wednesday, earning the name Tropical Storm Alberto.

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The National Hurricane Center has released a forecast cone for Alberto. The storm is expected to continue west throughout the day Wednesday, making landfall in Mexico during the early morning hours on Thursday. Alberto may strengthen slowly, but rapid intensification is not expected.

Here is the path of Tropical Storm Alberto. It is expected to slowly move west Wednesday and make landfall in Mexico early Thursday morning. National Hurricane Center

Alberto is expected to make landfall in northern Mexico either late Wednesday or early Thursday with sustained wind speeds of 45 mph. The biggest threat with this storm will be heavy rainfall and flooding across Mexico and South Texas.

The heaviest rainfall is expected on Wednesday, continuing into Thursday morning. The Corpus Christi area will likely see the highest rainfall totals, between 5 and 7 inches. Parts of the Rio Grande Valley could experience flooding rain totaling 3 to 5 inches. Totals will be lower as you push farther north.

Shown are expected rainfall totals through Friday across South Texas, according to the National Blend of Models. Pivotal Weather

Rainfall totals in San Antonio and Houston have continued to trend lower. Between a half-inch and 1.5 inches are expected in these regions. Totals will continue to decrease as you move farther north. Parts of Central Texas, including Austin, could still see a few tropical rain showers, but totals are likely to stay less than an a half-inch.

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Storm surge may induce flooding along the Texas coastline. Alberto is expected to cause water levels to rise 1 to 3 feet around Corpus Christi. Water levels could rise 2 to 4 feet in the Galveston Bay.

Tropical Storm Alberto is expected to cause rising water levels along the Texas coast. Storm Surge could be up to 4 feet along Galveston Bay. National Hurricane Center

Moisture is expected to spread westward by midday Thursday into parts of northern Mexico and West Texas. Rain chances in South Texas will start to decrease at this time as the tropical storm weakens over rough terrain. By Friday, a few lingering showers and storms are possible, but rain chances will fall to 20% or less.
Due to budget restrictions, Castle Rock School District is not offering summer school or its associated free summer lunch program this year.

The summer school program had been paid for mainly through state Learning Assistance Program funds and federal COVID-19 relief funds. With the latter, in the form of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funding, coming to an end, the district is currently unable to fit summer school into its budget, Director of Fiscal Services Shelby Garrett said. However, the district hopes to be able to offer it again in the future.

Washington school districts that hold summer school are required by state law to offer summer food services if 50% or more of the districts students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

Castle Rock does not meet this threshold, but has typically offered free lunches during its summer school program anyway, Garrett said.

Students from Toutle Lake School District, which does not have its own free summer lunch program, have also benefitted from Castle Rocks program in the past.

Alternative food programs

Cowlitz County, Rainier schools offer free summer meals Here are the locations where kids 18 and younger can still grab free meals this summer.

St. Paul Lutheran Church in Castle Rock offers free summer meals from noon to 12:30 p.m. weekdays through Aug. 14 in coordination with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Castle Rock United Methodist, Castle Rock Christian Church, St. Mary Catholic Church and First Baptist Castle Rock.

Each church takes turns hosting, providing their own meals and volunteers. Meal service is unavailable July 4.

Although the program is named Kids Meals, anyone who comes by is welcome to take a meal regardless of their age, Kids Meals Coordinator Clarance Knutson said. Meals come in the form of sack lunches, which can be eaten on site or taken home.

The program has been running for almost 30 years. Last year, the churches served an average of 50 to 55 meals each day, Knutson said.

SUN Bucks

Households with children may also qualify for SUN Bucks, a new summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program offered by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services as part of a nationwide effort to improve childrens access to food during the summer. Participating households will receive a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child. SUN Bucks benefits expire 122 days from the time they are issued.

Children may be automatically eligible if they are enrolled at a school that offers the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program and qualify through a meal application or family income survey, or if they are between 8 and 18 years old and a member of a household that receives other benefits, such as through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Castle Rock works with the state to provide information about potentially eligible students, Garrett said.

Parents and guardians can submit an application for students who do not automatically qualify. These students must be enrolled at a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program and live in a household that meets the income requirements to qualify for free or reduced-price meals. Applications are open through Aug. 31.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Amazon said Wednesday it will invest an additional 10 billion euros ($10.7 billion) in Germany, most of it in cloud computing, the US tech giant's latest major investment in Europe.

A total of 8.8 billion euros will come from Amazon's cloud computing division AWS and will be invested in southwest Germany by 2026, with the rest going into logistics, robotics and company offices.

The investment comes on top of 7.8 billion euros announced last month by AWS towards building a "sovereign cloud" center in Germany.

The first sovereign cloud complex will be set up in the state of Brandenburg, and will be operational by the end of 2025.

The new system is to address concerns of some European countries and public agencies, which have been reluctant to resort to cloud computing for fear data would be transferred to other jurisdictions, notably the United States.

With its recently announced investments, Amazon said it was hiring thousands of new workers in Germany, taking its total number of permanent employees in the country to about 40,000 by the end of the year.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on X that the investments showed that Germany remained "an attractive business location".

"As the government, we are working on precisely this: strengthening our competitiveness," he said.

Germany, Europe's top economy, sees attracting new investments in high-tech fields as crucial as it struggles to emerge from a period of weakness.

The tech giant has also in recent times announced major investments to expand data centers in Spain and to develop cloud infrastructure and logistical infrastructure of its parcel delivery system in France.

A pioneer of e-commerce, Amazon's AWS also dominates cloud computing with 31 percent of the market at the end of 2023, according to Stocklytics.

But rivals Microsoft and Google are gaining ground.

 2024 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Michael Stumo and his wife Nadia Milleron, the parents of Samya Rose Stumo, listen as Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun (R) speaks directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes.

Boeing's CEO acknowledged to a US congressional panel Tuesday that the company's culture was imperfect, but insisted the aviation giant was making progress and committed to improving safety.

"Our culture is far from perfect, but we are taking action and making progress," Calhoun said early in the hearing. Calhoun opened his remarks by standing to apologize to family members of victims from two Boeing 737 MAX in 2018 and 2019.

The hearing, an examination of "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture," follows an April session of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations featuring a Boeing engineer who testified that he was punished for raising safety questions about the top-selling 787 Dreamliner and 777.

Calhoun's appearance marked his first testimony before a congressional panel since an alarming mid-flight incident in January on a 737 MAX plunged the company back into crisis mode. US investigators are still probing the incident with the Alaska Airlines plane, which made an emergency landing after a fuselage panel blew out.

On Tuesday morning, the Senate committee detailed additional complaints from Boeing workers, including an official filing from a whistleblower who worried that Boeing's lax policies on the use of damaged or inadequate parts could "lead to a catastrophic event," according to a subcommittee memo.

Boeing stands "at a moment of reckoning and an opportunity to change a broken safety culture," said Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, who chaired the hearing.

The session came ahead of a Department of Justice determination on next steps after concluding in May that the company could be prosecuted for violating a criminal settlement following two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, off Indonesia and in Ethiopia.

Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun and Boeing Chief Engineer Howard McKenzie are sworn in during a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Investigations Subcommittee hearing to examine "Boeing's broken safety culture" on Capitol Hill.

Blumenthal said there "is near overwhelming evidence... that prosecution should be pursued."

At the conclusion of the hearing, Blumenthal said the company needs a "course correction" involving more than replacing a single manager. He vowed to keep up oversight of the company.

Calhoun faced aggressive questioning from several lawmakers, including Missouri Republican Josh Hawley who ridiculed the CEO's $33 million compensation plan last year and said Calhoun should have resigned.

"You're the problem," Hawley told Calhoun. "And I just hope to God that you don't destroy this company before it can be saved."

Calhoun has said he plans to step down as CEO at the end of 2024. The company is looking for a successor.

New whistleblower

At the April 17 hearing, witnesses painted a disturbing picture of a company that dismissed safety questions and sidelined critics as it chased faster production and bigger profits.

Zipporah Kuria (C) becomes emotional as she holds a photograph of her father Joseph Kuria Waithaka standing next to other family members of those killed in the 2018 and 2019 clashes.

The star witness was engineer Sam Salehpour, who went public with allegations that, because of flawed manufacturing processes, the Dreamliner could suffer a potentially catastrophic accident because of excessively large gaps in the plane's assembly.

Boeing has pointed to extensive testing that it says proves the 787 is safe.

Calhoun emphasized that he welcomes when workers speak out about problems, viewing such expressions as a critical component of safety.

He also pledged to get back to the committee on questions about workers who may have been fired for expressing concerns about safety.

Calhoun also said he would provide details on instances on how the company responds to workers who engage in retaliation against workers who speak out.

The Senate panel on Tuesday released details on additional workers who have come forward with problems.

This includes a new whistleblower, Sam Mohawk, who said that Boeing ordered improperly stored parts to be hidden from federal aviation inspectors, who would have demanded Boeing increase storage capacity and hire additional staff, raising costs.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun (R) shakes hands with Chairman Sen. Richard Blumenthal (L).

The hearing was attended by a small group of family members who lost relatives in the 2018 and 2019 MAX crashes, which together claimed 346 lives. The group held signs with their loved ones at the outset of the session.

Calhoun is a "mass killer," said Adnaan Stumo, brother to Nadia Milleron, who died in the Ethiopian Airlines crash. "There needs to be criminal charges for the people at the top."

"Accountability should be held for all the decisions," said Chris Moore, who lost his daughter to a MAX crash.

Erin Applebaum, a law partner at Kreindler & Kreindler LLP, which represents 34 families who lost loved ones on Boeing's flight in 2018, noted that Calhoun responded in the affirmative to a question about holding individuals accountable for the company's bad acts.

"The US Department of Justice should take Mr. Calhoun's words to heart and move forward with criminal charges against Boeing executivesstarting with the CEO himself," Applebaum said.

 2024 AFP
Drums, maracas, rainsticks and an axatse graced the stage at the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center on Tuesday while those in the crowd donned yellow, blue and lavender T-shirts.

When professional storyteller Toni Simmons looked to her audience for volunteers for her presentation, a multitude of arms shot into the air, eager to play a role.

After students in a variety of shirts took the stage and picked up one of the instruments, they joined Simmons in a demonstration that showcased the musical tradition of native Africa. As the students played their instruments, Simmons recited African call and response songs that got the rest of the audience involved.

The display was part of the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library & Museums annual Juneteenth celebration, commemorating June 19, 1865, when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger and Union troops reached Galveston to spread the news that the Civil War had ended and slavery had been abolished in the United States. In 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation to make Juneteenth a federal holiday.

Im just so inspired by these young people, said Simmons, who has traveled the globe to give cultural presentations. They were excited about participating in something that is an important part of our culture, our heritage. I want young people to know their history and not just think, Oh, its a holiday, and what the significance of [Juneteenth] is.

This summer marked the 20th year in which the Bush Library & Museum partnered with the city of College Station to host a Juneteenth celebration and the third to host Simmons. Lincoln Center supervisor Cheletia Johnson said the event has received plenty of community engagement throughout that time in order to make it successful.

Over the years, weve had community support, if its the parents or other people that are coming to walk for us, Johnson said. Its important that as part of American history, we show the diversity of what America makes up.

It marked the first Juneteenth celebration planned by Bush Library & Museum education director Fred White, an event that he said took about six months of planning. Whether it was Hungry Howies offering discounted pizza or H-E-B providing water bottles, White said community support helped make the celebration come to fruition.

With Juneteenth being a Texas holiday, I think our fellow Texans here go above and beyond to make sure that College Station is represented when it comes to Juneteenth celebrations, White said. I think its gone over very well as far as needing anything from a community, anytime we ask for anything for this event, people have just reached out with open arms.

The days celebration began just over 2 miles away at College Stations Lincoln Recreation Center, where roughly 100 children and about 25 supervisors embarked on a Freedom Walk to the Bush Library. Following an opening prayer and song, the group followed a police escort down Montclair Avenue and George Bush Drive West, waving U.S. and Texas flags along the way.

Regardless of what our ethnicity is, we are all Americans, Johnson said.

Students from elementary through middle school took part in the festivities, with chaperones from several community organizations, including the Lincoln Center summer camp, Boys and Girls Club of the Brazos Valley and Everyday Life Residential Treatment Center.

Once the group completed its trek, it gained relief in the air conditioning while Simmons began her presentation on African-American folklore, with an emphasis on the cultures musical roots. She took the audience on a journey from Africa to the onset of slavery in the U.S. through the emancipation movement in detailing African-Americans fight for freedom, one that she said remains pertinent.

I think its important to know, first of all, that we werent always allowed to do certain things, that we didnt have the rights and freedoms when we came to this country, Simmons said. So, they appreciate where they are and not that we are finished fighting for rights and freedoms. There will always be struggles and trials and obstacles that we have to overcome. If they know that our ancestors did it in the past, theyll know that theres hope that they can overcome whatever obstacles they may face.

As Simmons entertained the audience with traditional African folk stories such as The Tale of Osebos Drum, which explains how turtles gained their shells, she relied on members of the crowd to help her tell the story, whether it be through acting, dancing or playing instruments. Wadie Smith joined Simmons on stage to act as a giraffe attempting to steal a drum from Osebo before an impromptu dance.

I was kind of scared, but at the end of the day, Im like, Its good, its for everybody, so have some fun, Smith said.

Simmons kept her crowd engaged as she involved several audience members in her presentation, which discussed the hamboning practice of music among slaves. She also offered a history lesson on the usage of slave songs such as Steal Away and Wade in the Water, music that contained codes to assist escaped slaves along the Underground Railroad.

Thats my style of storytelling, Simmons said. I believe if you participate, youll remember. I also believe if you participate, youll pay more attention, too. So, when they get home, they can share these [stories], because their parents werent able to be here.  Its part of the African culture. Black storytelling is not meant to just sit and listen and observe. You are to participate, to become engaged. You help tell the story.

The Freedom Walk and presentation marked the beginning of a week of Juneteenth celebrations across the Brazos Valley, ranging from Bryan to College Station to Navasota and Anderson.

That both communities are getting involved in whats American history, thats great, Johnson said.
Chinese premier says sound, stable China-Australia relations in common interests of two peoples

Xinhua) 09:24, June 19, 2024

Chinese Premier Li Qiang addresses a welcome banquet held by the Chinese community in Australia, in Perth, Australia, June 18, 2024. Li attended the welcome banquet together with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese here on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

PERTH, Australia, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Facts have proven that sound and stable China-Australia relations serve the common interests of the two peoples and meet the common expectations of regional countries, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Tuesday.

Li made the remarks while attending a welcome banquet by the Chinese community in Australia with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

In 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Australia and the two countries established a comprehensive strategic partnership, Li noted, saying bilateral relations have made remarkable progress over the past 10 years.

Li noted that, during his visit to Australia this time, he has had extensive contact with Australian leaders and people from all walks of life, and has felt that people from all societies in Australia share the common aspirations and sincere expectations for the sound development and maintenance of China-Australia relations.

The two sides agreed to stay committed to their comprehensive strategic partnership, act in the common interests of the two peoples, expand and deepen practical cooperation in various fields, and push forward the continuous development of China-Australia relations, said the Chinese premier.

Against the backdrop of sluggish global economic growth, China's economy has continued to rebound and improve, with its new growth drivers gaining momentum, he said.

China's economy is resilient, and enjoys great potential and vitality, Li said, adding that its basic trend of long-term improvement won't change.

China has the confidence and the ability to maintain sustained and sound economic development, he said.

A prosperous and more open China will bring more fresh opportunities for win-win cooperation between China and Australia and inject stronger impetus into the world economy.

Overseas Chinese in Australia, Li said, are important members of Australia's diverse society and have played a unique role in promoting economic, cultural and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.

Li said he hoped that they will continue to pay attention to and support the development of China-Australia relations, actively promote exchanges and cooperation between the two countries in various fields and further contribute to stronger development of China-Australia relations.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Satellite view of the potential tropical storm in the Gulf of Mexico, taken at 2 p.m. Tuesday. COD Meteorology

The long-anticipated tropical rain event is expected to begin today in South Texas, bringing high rain chances across the region. Expected rainfall totals in San Antonio are lower than previously thought, but a steady, soaking rain is still expected in the Alamo City. Heres everything you need to know.

Whats causing the rain?

The source of the impending rainfall in South Texas is a potential tropical storm located in the Gulf of Mexico. The storm could become Tropical Storm Alberto by Wednesday, according to the National Hurricane Center. This Gulf storm is abnormally large, with moisture and clouds stretching from the Louisiana coast southward to the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

The large size is important, and heres why. Even though the tropical system is expected to come ashore in Mexico, large amounts of moisture will move into South Texas, a few hundred miles north of the expected landfall. In addition, while the tropical system is expected to make landfall late Wednesday night or early Thursday, the rain in South Texas will start much earlier in the day.

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San Antonio hour-by-hour timeline

Early morning (3 to 8 a.m.): San Antonio will stay mostly dry through the early morning hours, but a few showers and storms are possible by sunrise. Overall rain chances are only 20-30% through 8 a.m. as temperatures hover in the mid- to upper 70s.

The future radar in South Texas for 8 a.m. Wednesday shows tropical rain moving into the region from the Gulf of Mexico. Scattered showers are possible in San Antonio during the morning. Pivotal Weather

Late morning (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.): A wave of moisture is expected to move into San Antonio from the Gulf, helping to increase rain chances during the late morning hours. By noon, rain chances will rise to 50% and continue increasing thereafter.



Afternoon and evening (1 p.m. to 10 p.m.): Throughout this afternoon and evening, rain chances will be at their greatest. We can expect a steady, moderate rainfall for several hours at a time with intermittent tropical downpours possible.

The future radar in South Texas for 4 p.m. Wednesday shows more widespread rainfall near San Antonio. Heavier rain is expected in deep South Texas. Pivotal Weather

Areas mainly south of I-10 are under a flood watch. The flooding threat will be greatest from the late afternoon through tonight. Do not travel on flooded roadways. If you have to travel, give yourself extra time to get to your destination, take it slow and have an alternate route in mind if roads do become flooded.

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Thursday: As the tropical system moves west and weakens, rainfall is expected to become less widespread by Thursday morning. Scattered showers and storms will remain possible, especially throughout the morning. By Thursday afternoon and evening, rain chances will fall to around 30%.

How much rain will fall?

Over the last 24 hours, weather models have shifted the heaviest rainfall totals to the south. Because of that, San Antonios expected rainfall will likely be lower than previously expected. The Alamo City has been removed from the flood watch.

Shown are rainfall totals expected in South Texas this week. nws austin/san antonio

San Antonio now is expecting a storm total of 0.75 to 1.5 inches of rain through Thursday. Isolated totals of up to 3 inches are possible, mainly in southern Bexar County. The farther north you live, the lower your rainfall total is likely to be.

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South of San Antonio, rainfall totals are expected to be higher. Cities such as Pleasanton, Pearsall and Carrizo Springs are expecting 1.5-3 inches of rain. The Rio Grande Valley and northwest to Laredo can expect 3-5 inches. Finally, the highest totals are anticipated near Corpus Christi, where 4-7 inches is likely to fall.

Other effects

The biggest threat today will be heavy rain and flooding. A few storms will produce thunder and lightning, but thankfully, hail or damaging winds are not expected.

However, as is often the case with landfalling tropical cyclones, a few weak, tropical tornadoes will be possible in parts of South Texas. The best chance of this will come in coastal regions, especially near Corpus Christi, but an isolated, weak tornado cannot be ruled out near San Antonio.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office announced Wednesday that Nick Pasqual, the 34-year-old actor captured in Texas while attempting to flee to Mexico, has been charged with attempted murder and other felonies for allegedly stabbing his makeup artist ex-girlfriend over 20 times.

Authorities also allege Pasqual "inflicted great bodily injury upon the victim under circumstances involving domestic violence" and that he "personally used a knife during the commission of the crime."

At around 4:30 a.m. on May 23, Pasqual allegedly broke into the Sunland, Calif., home of award-winning makeup artist and special effects producer Allie Shehorn, 35, and stabbed her multiple times. Later that day, the artist known for her work on "Rebel Moon" and "Babylon" was found by her surrogate mother with slashes to her neck, abdomen and arms.

What Happened to Shehorn?

Shehorn was hospitalized with critical injuries, and underwent multiple surgeries. Fellow makeup artist Jed Dornoff set up a GoFundMe for Shehorn, and wrote that she is making "positive steps in her recovery."

"It's still a very long road but she is facing it with courage and determination," Dornoff wrote.

According to the DA's office, she had previously obtained a restraining order against Pasqual, alleging he had attacked her multiple other times.

Pasqual, who has had minor roles in "How I Met Your Mother" and "Rebel Moon," was later detained at the border checkpoint in Sierra Blanca, Texas, as he tried to flee to Mexico.

What's Next?

Pasqual will be extradited to Los Angeles County to face his charges.

"My thoughts and heartfelt sympathies are with the victim in this horrific incident," District Attorney George Gascon said in a statement. "Our office, including our Bureau of Victim Services, extends our support and resources to her as she embarks on the long and difficult journey of healing from both the physical and emotional trauma inflicted upon her. This heinous incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of domestic violence. We will ensure that the individual responsible for this egregious act is held accountable for their actions."

If convicted, Pasqual faces a maximum sentence of life in state prison.

--with reporting by TMX
A New York City man on Tuesday claimed credit for helping nab a suspect in the knifepoint rape of a 13-year-year girl -- saying he attacked the man without warning after recognizing him in images and video released by the police.

"I punched him. I kicked him," Jeffrey Flores told NBC New York, according to a video clip posted on social media. "He didn't see it coming."

BREAKING: We spoke to the #Queens man who recognized and physically restrained the alleged rapist, Christian Geovanny Inga, overnight. Jeffrey Flores says he saw the NYPD flyer and quickly identified the suspect, who he says frequents a bodega in Corona, Queens. @NBCNewYork pic.twitter.com/NPDKvOrEtM  Melissa Colorado (@melissacolorado) June 18, 2024

Flores said the man didn't deny being the suspected rapist but "started yelling 'Help! Help! Help!' in Spanish."

"I'm like, 'Yeah, that's what the little girls were saying,'" Flores said.

Flores said he acted because "I got two little sisters and I'm about to have a daughter."

"So, like, for me, it did not sit right," he said.

Flores told the New York Post that he knew the man regularly shopped at a deli in Queens and "waited the whole day to see if he would come up. He came at night."

Flores said several other vigilantes helped him subdue the suspect, who the Post said was tied up with a belt after the beating.

Police Commissioner Edward Caban said during a Tuesday news conference that "our city was united in getting justice for the victim and her family," leading to an arrest around 1 a.m.

Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny identified the suspect as Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, 25, and said he would be charged with a laundry list of crimes including rape, sexual abuse and kidnapping.

Kenny said Inga-Landi was of "Ecuadorian descent" and multiple news accounts described him as a migrant who entered the U.S. in 2021.

He's accused of using a machete to force the 13-year-old girl and a 13-year-old boy into a wooded area of Kissena Park in Queens on Thursday afternoon.

Inga-Landi allegedly tied the kids' wrists together before sexually assaulting the girl and then stole their cell phones.

Kenny said the Inga-Landi waived his Miranda rights and made incriminating statements during questioning, including that he had a drug problem and that "this was the first time he had ever done anything like this."


**Correction**



The original version of this article identified the victim of this crime as George Tillman Jr. The story has been corrected to state that film director George Tillman, who is from Memphis, is the subject of this story, and not film director George Tillman Jr, who resides in Los Angeles. Mr. Tillman Jr.'s LA home was not robbed, and he was not hospitalized for any reason. Mr. Tillman Jr.'s photograph was also taken off this article.

Director George Tillman's Tennessee home was allegedly ransacked and priceless films were stolen while he was hospitalized for pneumonia.

Tillman's brother, Kevin Tillman, 65, was arrested Friday for aggravated burglary in connection with the alleged incident carried out in May.

It's unclear if he entered a plea to the charge.

Tillman alleged when he returned to his Memphis, Tennessee, home after a nearly two-week hospital stay, multiple items had been stolen or destroyed, including several thousand dollars worth or jewelry and furniture. Also missing were various short films.

"You can't put a price on those scripts," Tillman, 55, said, according to WREG-TV. "One of my films, you can't put a price on it. Ain't no telling how much money it's valued at."

"I was trying to bring my mattress back in the house, and he was coming up the street," Tillman explained. "I looked at his feet and he had on my brand new white Nike shoes, and I said 'We can't do that. You gotta pull off my clothes and my shoes man.'"

The elder Tillman allegedly told concerned neighbors he was removing "contaminated" items from his brother's home while he was away.

"Yeah that's where he had everybody fooled," Tillman added. "Man, when I got back to this house I couldn't believe it. I said this isn't cleaning up man, this is rambling. You rambled through my things and destroyed my things. When I see him, all he can do is tell me where my stuff is."

The Kevin Tillman is due in court Tuesday.
An alleged accomplice in the slaying of a 3-year-old Lousiana girl claims the victim and her older sister were alive the last time she saw them.

A public defender said in court in Jackson, Mississippi, that Victoria Cox was on her way to the city when she was arrested and that she had no idea anything had happened to Erin Brunett or her 6-year-old sister, TV station KPLC reported Monday

Cox, 32, also maintains that both girls were alive the last time she saw them, the lawyer reportedly said.

Cox's last known address is a house on the same road in rural Loranger, Louisiana, where the girls lived with their mother, Callie Brunett, TV station WDSU reported Monday.

Brunett's father found her fatally stabbed and her daughters missing from their house on Thursday.

Erin's body was found later that day in a wooded area outside Jackson.

Her older sister was found nearby, injured but alive.

On Monday, Jackson Police Joseph Wade said Erin appeared to have been suffocated or asphyxiated because he didn't see "any gunshot wounds or anything like that" on her body.

Cox and Brunett's former boyfriend, Daniel Callihan, 36, were arrested separately in Mississippi and charged with capital murder and sexual battery.

Callihan has also been charged in Lousiana with first-degree murder, armed robbery, and aggravated kidnapping.

On Friday, Callihan told reporters that "I did it" and "I have no reason for what I did."

Callihan also said he's been diagnosed with "borderline multiple personality disorder" and was "sober and only on Lexapro," an antidepressant medication.

Cox didn't speak to reporters as she was escorted from court on Monday.

Callihan and Cox are both being held in Mississippi without bail and Callihan was charged Monday by federal authorities in Jackson with kidnapping.
A former Florida-based U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer pleaded guilty on Tuesday to stealing cash from arriving international passengers, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida announced.

William Joseph Timothy, 43, admitted he stole some $18,700 in cash from passengers in 17 separate incidents between mid-2023 and early 2024 at the Naples Airport.

Investigators with the CBP's Office of Professional Responsibility uncovered evidence that showed Timothy was "surreptitiously stealing cash" from arriving international travelers during border enforcement examinations and currency verifications, which were part of his official duties.

Video surveillance from the investigation showed him taking around $2,000 belonging to the passenger during the border enforcement examination in May 2023, the Department of Justice said.

As part of his plea agreement, Timothy agreed to immediately resign from CBP and pay restitution to the victims. He also faces up to ten years in prison, though a sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
Many have tried, and few have succeeded in expanding the states sales tax base by taxing things now exempt from taxation.

But that is where Gov. Jim Pillen is venturing in his pursuit of property tax relief.

His initial plan, which failed to win approval in the State Legislature this spring, would have imposed new taxes on a host of items that could be labeled low-hanging fruit.

I mean whos going to get upset if we start imposing taxes on edibles infused with hemp, those slot machine-like skill games, or pop and candy? How many folks will cry if we raise taxes on vaping products and cigarettes?

It reminded me of the old philosophy about taxation: Dont tax you, dont tax me, tax that guy behind the tree.

But when it comes to eliminating tax breaks, youre going to face a gauntlet of lobbyists and special interests that worked hard to get a tax exemption in the first place. They dont want to give it up.

A decade ago, Gov. Dave Heineman proposed eliminating more than $2 billion worth of sales tax exemptions to eliminate state income taxes, so we could be like neighboring Wyoming and South Dakota. No state income tax.

But at a public hearing on the idea, the line of lobbyists opposing the idea stretched into the hallway, and criticism of the proposal continued until midnight. The bill was eventually withdrawn.

This time around, Pillen is hoping to enlist taxpayers to rise up, and urge their state senators to ignore the phalanx of hired guns  the folks that wine and dine legislators, and organize their fundraisers  and rescind some exemptions.

The list of exemptions is over 100 items long, leaving about $6.5 million of potential tax revenue uncollected, according to a recent story by Zach Wendling in the Nebraska Examiner.

The list is long, and includes such things as bull semen (used to artificially impregnate cows), biochips, repairs of cars and farm machinery, equipment used in manufacturing and data centers, groceries and (gulp) newspaper subscriptions.

Theres a story behind every exemption  the biochip one was passed to help a Lincoln business grow and prevent it from moving out of state; bull semen is a business input for beef producers, as is equipment in factories and data centers; farm repairs were exempt to prevent border bleed of farmers buying parts from other states, where such parts were exempt.

Some exemptions seem to be a stretch. Why, for instance, is admission to a political event exempt, or a single-day ticket to visit the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha?

Theres also some that are nearly untouchable, such as the tax breaks for churches and nonprofits, and the sales tax exemption on groceries.

Tax studies, such as the 2021 Blueprint Nebraska Plan devised by state business leaders, have called for broadening the sales tax base by taxing more services. Under one option, even tax breaks on bills from doctors, lawyers, dentists, financial advisors and accountants would go away.

For a long time, the influential, business-oriented Tax Foundation has called for updating state tax systems by taxing more services. It points out that people now spend more money on services (like car and home repairs, dry cleaning and haircuts) than on goods like refrigerators and boats, so our current tax system is outdated and poorly focused.

But heres the kicker  major tax changes in Nebraska typically happen in response to a crisis. Is the state in a crisis right now over property taxes?

Yes, we all complain about high property taxes in the Husker State, and our eyes bug out when we see our new, much higher, valuations on our homes and farm ground.

Property taxes, overall, have risen 53% over the past decade (which translates into about 5% a year), so no ones very happy about that.

But a crisis?

I dont see pitchforks in the street at this point. Sure, theres that petition drive for the EPIC Option tax, which would impose a consumption tax and eliminate nearly all other state taxes, but that has been labeled as a radical solution, and seems like a long-shot to make the ballot.

Meanwhile, the veterinarian governor is out doing town halls, pitching his ideas.

Best of luck. Getting 33 legislators to agree on any specific idea is a tall hill to climb (and Pillen says he wants a special session as early as July). Getting rid of state tax exemptions is like climbing Mount Everest.
MINA, Saudi Arabia  Muslim pilgrims have wrapped up the Hajj, or pilgrimage, in the deadly summer heat on Tuesday with the third day of the symbolic stoning of the devil, and the last circumambulation around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest site, in the city of Mecca.

The three-day stoning ritual in Mina, a desert site outside Mecca, is among the final rites of the Hajj, and symbolizes the casting away of evil and sin. It started a day after pilgrims congregated Saturday at a sacred hill, known as Mount Arafat.

The final days of the annual Hajj coincide with Muslims around the world celebrating the Eid al-Adha holiday when Muslims with financial means commemorate Prophet Ibrahim's test of faith, when God ordered him to sacrifice his only son, by slaughtering livestock and animals and distributing the meat to the poor.

The Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Its rituals largely commemorate the accounts of Prophet Ibrahim and his son Prophet Ismail, Ismail's mother Hajar and Prophet Muhammad, according to the Quran, Islam's holy book. In the Islamic version, God stayed his hand and Ismail was spared.

"I am reassured. I feel comfortable," Mejahed al-Mehrabi, a Yemeni pilgrim, told The Associated Press after he was done with the third day of the stoning ritual. "Anyone who can visit the Grand Mosque (in Mecca) should do so."

Nigerian pilgrim Amir Omar was overjoyed once he finished his symbolic stoning. "I am feeling very great that I perform one pillar of my religion," he said. "I am feeling very grateful."

The burning sun and suffocating hot weather remained Tuesday, with temperatures, expected to reach 47 degrees Celsius (116.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in Mecca and the sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Center for Metrology.

Many pilgrims, particularly elderly ones, were seen collapsed and in need of medical assistance because of the heat. Dozens, including 14 from Jordan, were also reported dead.

After the third symbolic stoning Tuesday, pilgrims headed to Mecca to perform "tawaf," circling the Kaaba in the Grand Mosque counterclockwise seven times. That circumambulation, known as the Farewell Tawaf, marks the end of Hajj as pilgrims prepare to leave the holy city.

Once the Hajj is over, men are expected to shave their heads, and women to snip a lock of hair in a sign of renewal.

Most of the pilgrims then leave Mecca for the city of Medina, about 340 kilometers (210 miles) away, to pray in Prophet Muhammad's tomb, the Sacred Chamber.

The Sacred Chamber tomb is part of the prophet's mosque, one of the three holiest sites in Islam, along with the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

All Muslims are required to make the Hajj once in their lives if they are physically and financially able to do so. Many wealthy Muslims make the pilgrimage more than once.

More than 1.83 million Muslims performed Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million pilgrims from 22 countries, and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to Saudi Hajj authorities.

The 2014 pilgrimage came against the backdrop of the devastating Israel-Hamas war, which has pushed the Middle East to the brink of a regional conflict.

"I prayed first for Gaza then Yemen," said al-Mehrabi, the Yemeni pilgrim, referring to the war between Israel and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave and the decade-old conflict in his home country.
A Florida landlord is accused of killing a family of four and then burning their remains in his backyard fire pit.

Rory Atwood, 25, of Pasco, is charged with the murder of a family of four who vanished last week.

Authorities have been searching for Rain Mancini, 26; Phillip Zilliot II, 25; 6-year-old Karma Zilliot; and 5-year-old Phillip Zilliot III.

Deputies say Atwood admitted he burned their bodies, along with those of their two young children.

Court records obtained by The Tampa Bay Times show that the family had been living with Atwood on a 10-acre property.

An investigation was launched after a sister of Atwood's friend gave a tip to law enforcement officials.

The friend allegedly received a video call from Atwood asking for help burning trash, with a clear view of a puddle of blood and the bodies of adults and children in the background.



Police conducted a wellness check at the property but found nothing suspicious.

On Friday afternoon, deputies returned to Atwood's property, this time with a cadaver dog, who delved into the fire pit, unearthing small skeletal remains.

Forensic teams also uncovered "two apparent human vertebrae, all of which showed signs of thermal damage," according to the affidavit.

Atwood told law enforcement officials he had evicted the family on June 1 after they failed to pay rent.

Following an altercation with the family when they came to the home to collect their belongings, Atwood claims Mancini and Zilliot entered his bedroom and began attacking him with knives before a gun "suddenly appeared."

He said he and Zilliot fought for the weapon until Atwood shot Zilliot in the head twice and Mancini, who was shot in the head and torso,.

He did not reveal how the two children died, but he claimed that he suspected Zilliot and Mancini killed them.

"The defendant burned the two victims and evidence within the fire pit and repeatedly lied to patrol deputies and detectives," according to the affidavit.

He also "admitted to the knowledge that both juveniles were also burned in the same fire pit."

Atwood faces a first-degree murder charge and pleaded not guilty during his first appearance in court on Monday.

He is currently being held without bond at the Land O' Lakes Jail.

The Pasco Sheriff's Department said the bodies have not yet been positively identified as the investigation remains ongoing.

The family of the victims have started a fundraiser to raise money to bury them.
The National Hurricane Center is monitoring an area of potential tropical development in the Atlantic Ocean that could approach the South Carolina coast.

Forecasters noted much uncertainty still exists with the storm. And even without a storm, theres still a chance of rain over the weekend.

The current forecast for Orangeburg is calling for a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms from Friday through Sunday, increasing to about 50 percent on Monday.

The tropical area of concern is associated with a surface trough and upper-level area of low pressure east of the Bahamas. On Wednesday, the National Hurricane Center forecast a 20 percent chance of tropical storm formation over the next seven days.

An area of showers and thunderstorms located several hundred miles east of the Bahamas is associated with a surface trough and an upper-level area of low pressure, a National Hurricane Center report said.

Environmental conditions are marginally conducive for some gradual development of this system during the next few days while it moves westward or west-northwestward. The system is forecast to approach the coast of the southeastern United States on Thursday, it said.

Hurricane season began June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.

Forecasters are calling for an active hurricane season.

This year, Colorado State University is forecasting between 17 to 25 named storms, and eight to 13 hurricanes with four to seven being major hurricanes.

The average number of named storms in a year is around 14, the average for hurricanes is about seven, and the average for major storms is about three, according to the CSU.

It is the highest preseason hurricane forecast ever for the CSU since it began predictions in 1995.

The researchers cite record warm tropical and eastern Atlantic sea surface temperatures being a primary factor in the hurricane prediction this year.

But that's not the only factor leading researchers to believe this season will be more active than usual.

A changing global climate pattern known as the El Nino Southern Oscillation will help spark lower wind shear across the Atlantic basin, likely bringing a more favorable environment for storms to thrive.
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SSAB and Firth Steels have entered a long-term partnership for the supply of steel made with virtually zero fossil carbon emissions. The partnership will help Firth Steels reach its goal to further improve sustainability and reduce the CO2 footprint of their products.

Firth Steels is one of the UKs leading manufacturers of steel profile products for wall and roof systems. The companies have a long-running collaboration and are now expanding their partnership to include SSABs fossil-free products.

The deal includes immediate deliveries of SSAB Zero, the worlds first commercial steel made with virtually zero fossil carbon emissions. SSAB Zero is made of recycled steel and produced with fossil-free electricity and biogas. The steel will be used as a key component of Firth Steels brand-new product series Protex Voyage, a low embodied carbon building envelope solution.

Scope 3 emissions

We are absolutely thrilled to have been selected by SSAB to embark on this great journey in reducing carbon emissions in all aspects of our steel process. As a UK-based roll-former of steel profiles, Scope 3 emissions represent the largest portion of our carbon footprint. By forming strategic partnerships with the world's leading mills, we can significantly reduce these emissions and forge a sustainable future for our planet from the outset, not offset, says James Firth, Managing Director, Firth Steels Limited.

We are happy to add fossil-free steel to our collaboration with Firth Steels, which already uses our bio-based GreenCoat colour coated steel in their products. By cutting our own carbon emissions, we can help our customers reduce their indirect emissions from the materials they use  its a win-win, says Dave Williams, Managing Director, SSAB Swedish Steel Ltd.

Traditional steel production represents a significant source of global CO2 emissions, with both virgin and recycled steel production contributing to emissions. By changing the way steel is produced, SSAB wants to cut emissions and create a fossil-free value chain with customers and partners regardless of whether the raw material is scrap or iron ore.

Two unique steels

To this end, SSAB has created two unique steels with virtually zero fossil carbon emissions: SSAB Zero and SSAB Fossil-free steel. SSAB Fossil-free steel is made from iron ore with the unique HYBRIT technology, developed by SSAB with mining company LKAB and energy company Vattenfall. Instead of using coal to remove the oxygen from the iron ore to make iron, the HYBRIT technology uses hydrogen produced with fossil-free electricity, thus emitting water instead of CO2. SSAB Fossil-free steel is currently available for pilot deliveries to selected partners, with volumes expected to increase in the coming years.

In addition to cutting indirect Scope 3 emissions, Firth Steels has several sustainable initiatives, under their For Good campaign to reduce emissions from its own operations including energy used (Scope 1 and 2). The company has a battery storage facility on site and solar arrays which provide grid-free storage and production off grid if need be. It is certified by Planet Mark, an independent sustainability certification that measures carbon and social data.--TradeArabia News Service
Saudi Arabia's National Water Company (NWC) has announced that it has awarded a long-term contract to Spanish Aguas de Valencia Company for rehabilitation, operation and maintenance of sewage treatment plants (STPs) in Taif city for 15 years.

As per the contract worth worth over SAR555 million ($148 million), with a levelized tariff of SAR 0.67/ cu m, the Spanish group will handle two STPs in Taif with a total treatment capacity of 147,000 cu m/day.

NWC said it had completed signing of 8 contracts under the Long-Term Operation and Maintenance (LTOM) programme as part of its strategic plans to attract the private sector to contribute in the investment opportunities and help boost PPP funding in the water sector.

NWC aims to award rehabilitation, operation and maintenance contracts for 113 existing treatment plants (with a total capacity of 2.4 million cu m/day) this year under this new LTOM scheme.

This will open up immense investment opportunities for local and international private companies looking to enter the Saudi utility sector.

"These partnerships will attract important consortia, with the goal of rehabilitating existing assets for 15 years with capital investments at competitive prices," said CEO Dr Fuad Alsheikh Mubarak after signing the contract with Severino Ramos Aparici, General Manager of Aguas de Valencia in the presence of senior executives of both parties.

"Through these contracts, NWC aims to support the national economy by enabling expansion and growth in the water sector and creating opportunities and long-term partnerships with local and international private sector companies," he stated.

"Another goal is to attract and localize new technologies and transfer knowledge to Saudi professionals. Additionally, it said, the opportunities in water sector attract capital into Saudi Arabia, as they are offered as part of an innovative partnership model that interests water sector local and global operating consortia," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Hilton Salalah Resort, a beachfront property in Oman, overlooking the Arabian Sea, has embarked upon an extensive renovation project aimed at enhancing guest experiences and elevating its facilities to new heights of hospitality and comfort.

The renovation project, which began this March, targets key areas of the resort, including the Western wing's 79 guest rooms and suites, the renowned A la Carte Beach Restaurant Palm Grove featuring Middle and Far Eastern fusion culinary delights, and its Fitness Center.

The Omani resort said the ongoing renovation was a testament to its commitment to continuous improvement and exceptional guest satisfaction.

The renovation project, slated for completion by mid-July, promises to deliver a renewed sense of sophistication to guests visiting the resort, it stated.

Ahmed Massoud, the general manager, said: "We are committed to upholding the highest standards of hospitality and are excited to unveil the transformed Hilton Salalah Resort."

As part of the renovation, the iconic Palm Grove restaurant, a pioneer in beachfront dining in Salalah since its inception in 2000, will undergo a transformation, featuring a 10-metre extension, indoor dining areas, a lounge, pool bar, and an open deck offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.

Additionally, the Fitness Center will be enhanced with two massage rooms, a sauna, a beauty salon, and a health club, providing guests with a comprehensive wellness experience.  TradeArabia News Service
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Medical University of Bahrain (RCSI Bahrain) has awarded a $45 million contract to leading construction group Nass Corporation for carrying out expansion work at its campus.

On completion, it will add a brand new state-of-the-art academic building designed to address the growing demand for advanced medical education and research facilities along with the addition of 7,912 sq m of usable space that will house enhanced teaching facilities, cutting-edge research labs, a modern library, social spaces, and a spacious event hall.

The big expansion project plan comes as RCSI Bahrain marks its 20th anniversary celebrations.

Emphasising a vested commitment towards sustainability, the project includes adopting low-carbon transportation options through bike racks and EV charging stations.

Beyond this, the design will incorporate energy-efficient features such as solar panels, LED lighting and water conservation systems, with a focus on incorporating heat-reduction practices through the incorporation of native plants and green spaces into the landscape, as part of RCSI Bahrains commitment to fostering an environmentally friendly ecosystem that nurtures a sense of well-being, said a top official.

Unveiling the key expansion plan, RCSI Bahrain said it will see an additional $102 million being invested in the campus over the next four years.

In line with a steadfast commitment to contributing with excellence towards the improvement of human health, patient care, and societal well-being, the University has consistently achieved pivotal milestones since its establishment, placing innovative research at the heart of its services through the School of Postgraduate Studies and Research, with a focus on interdisciplinary clinical and patient-centred research, as well as addressing key national, regional, and global health challenges.

On its two decades of successful operations in Bahrain, Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, said: "We are proud to celebrate this milestone, boasting a diverse network of over 3,000 alumni and healthcare professionals from 56 nationalities comprising 459 doctors and 1,321 nurses, which have significantly contributed to strengthening Bahrain's comprehensive healthcare system."

Otoom said: "A living reflection of RCSI's dedication to sustainability and commitment to providing an ideal environment for our faculty and students to thrive and developing new programmes, our planned campus expansion aligns with Bahrain's vision to cement itself as a leading regional hub for healthcare and education, benefiting from a highly skilled workforce, welcoming and tolerant community, and exceptional lifestyle."

Munther Almudawi, Executive Director of Business Development for Healthcare, Education, and Tourism at Bahrain EDB said: "We offer our support to investors through every step of their journey, long after they first set up in Bahrain. First founded as the national training body for surgery in Ireland, RCSI has continued to be at the forefront of healthcare education since its establishment in 1784."

"With a long-standing history of innovation, we take pride in RCSI Bahrains 20 years of milestone successes on the island and look forward to witnessing the development of its sustainably-led campus expansion project, which will add value to the diversity of Bahrains highly-developed education and healthcare ecosystems, which aims to provide service quality on par with the global playing field," noted Almudawi.

"In a comprehensive National Economic Contribution Report delivered by PwC Ireland, the impact of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain on the national economy was determined to be an estimated annual contribution of $91 million," he added.

The calculated contribution encompasses various aspects of the University's operations, including day-to-day activities, cutting-edge facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, student expenditures and the economic ripple effect generated by the spending of visiting friends and relatives of international students enrolled.

Furthermore, the upcoming construction and outfitting of the new academic building is projected to inject an additional $102 million into the economy over a four-year period, said the EDB official.

Beyond its economic impact, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain continues to play a pivotal role in Bahrain's socio-economic development by initiating programmes to enhance the skills of the local healthcare workforce, contributing to national research priorities, and championing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sustainability.

The University's activities directly and indirectly support 437 jobs, fostering growth and opportunity within the community stated Almudawi.

Furthermore, the university's staffing requirements continue growing to meet the expanding student body and research endeavours. Of the 227 full-time staff members employed by RCSI Bahrain, 50% are Bahraini nationals who benefit from a wide range of continuous professional development programmes, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
HQ by Hope, Bahrain's largest co-working space owned and operated by Hope Ventures, has partnered with leading telecommunications provider, Zain Bahrain to foster the growth of Bahrain's entrepreneurial community.

As a prominent player in Bahrain's digital transformation, Zain Bahrain has consistently demonstrated its commitment to empowering startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) through various initiatives. Zain has actively invested in nurturing the next generation of homegrown innovators, and this partnership with HQ by Hope represents the latest chapter in Zain's mission to build a thriving, interconnected ecosystem for entrepreneurs.

The co-working space, located in the heart of Manama's Seef district, serves as a dynamic hub that brings together founders, freelancers, and business leaders from diverse backgrounds. By offering flexible workspaces, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive business support services, HQ by Hope creates an environment primed for collaboration, networking and knowledge-sharing.

Key milestone

"We are thrilled to partner with Zain Bahrain, a company that shares our vision of empowering the local startup community," said Fajer Saleh Alpachachi, General Manager of Hope Ventures. "This strategic partnership represents a significant milestone in Bahrain's co-working industry, as it showcases the strength of collaboration between corporates and entrepreneurial spaces and highlights how they can work in tandem to drive innovation and growth."

Zain Bahrain's Chief Communications and Investor Relations Officer, Sh. Abdulla Khaled Al Khalifa said: "Zain Bahrain is proud to be a strategic partner with Hope Ventures. This collaboration underscores our commitment to nurturing Bahrain's entrepreneurial spirit and fostering innovation to create a dynamic ecosystem that empowers startups and SMEs to thrive and succeed in the digital landscape. We look forward to driving positive change and unlocking new opportunities for Bahrain through this partnership with Hope.--TradeArabia News Service
The 25th edition of Intersec, the world's leading business event for safety, security, and fire protection, held in Dubai earlier this year, resulted in a business buying capacity of over $16.7 billion for the industry.

Messe Frankfurt Middle East reveals the event saw significant deals, including a strategic agreement between Moro Hub, a subsidiary of Digital Dewa, and the Judicial Inspection Authority (JIA) to implement a comprehensive Judicial Performance Management system and develop an advanced website for the authority.

Moro Hub also signed a strategic agreement with the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) at Intersec 2024, establishing a collaboration to strengthen coordination and cooperation in smart city security. Digital Mobility Services (DMS) - Econocom also formed a strategic partnership with Streamax to develop smart transportation systems in Saudi Arabia, utilising advanced AI to enhance public transport efficiency.

Pivotal platform

Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Intersec organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: "This monumental achievement underscores the importance of Intersec as a pivotal platform for fostering business partnerships and driving the industry's growth. The potential buying capacity generated at Intersec highlights the event's influence and its critical role in facilitating groundbreaking deals and collaborations that shape the future of safety, security, and fire protection."

Business Market Insights forecasts that the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) homeland security market will be worth $15.601 billion by 2028. As Intersec prepares to return to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) for its 26th edition from January 14 to 16, 2025, the event is poised to continue fostering significant business opportunities and partnerships, with factors such as digitalisation and the rise in the number of airports and passenger traffic driving the industry forward.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Intersec 2025, themed "The worlds number one event mapping the future in safety, security, and fire protection," will offer a platform for networking, conducting business, and showcasing innovative technology and innovations.

Increase in participation

The 2025 edition of Intersec is expected to see an increase in participation and attendance, with a 15% growth in exhibitors to 1,200 and a 10% rise in visitor numbers to 52,000 from 47,506, with attendees from over 140 countries. The event will also feature 12 country pavilions, including the UK, France and Singapore, highlighting Intersec's global reach as a hub for networking and innovation in safety, security, and fire protection.

Show highlights for 2025 include the debut of the CISO Business Briefing, an exclusive, closed-door gathering for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) across various industries.

This forum represents a vital addition to Intersec, offering a unique platform for CISOs to engage in strategic discussions, knowledge sharing, and collaborative problem-solving. Under Chatham House rules, participants will explore cutting-edge technologies, threat intelligence, regulatory compliance, and best practices, engaging in high-level dialogues with industry experts and thought leaders, addressing the latest challenges in cybersecurity," Tuchten explained.

Intersec continues to underscore its commitment to a safer and more secure world through high-impact conference programmes, including the Security Leaders' Summit (ISLS), the Fire & Rescue Conference, and the Safety & Health Conference.

The event's diverse features include the Fire Fighter Challenge, the Gulf's largest and toughest competition, showcasing the skills of UAE and international rescuers in real-life emergency scenarios, demonstrating perseverance, endurance, excellence, and teamwork.

Safety Walk

Additionally, the Safety Walk showcases a catwalk show of industrial safety gear where exhibitors will have 15 minutes to describe the features of their kit, and the Intersec Awards recognising outstanding achievements across critical sectors, such as Fire & Safety, Industry, and Security, will be featured. The Premium Buyers Club will also provide a vital networking programme for industry professionals.

Divided into five broad product sections, the event provides tailored solutions for Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health, Cyber Security, and Homeland Security & Policing, promoting innovation and connectivity across sectors.--TradeArabia News Service
A 16-year-old Indiana boy faces murder charges and his 23-year-old girlfriend faces deadly neglect charges in connection with the death of a 4-year-old girl found with bruises and a bite mark.

Authorities have described the incident as a "very disturbing death."

Evansville police were called to the Spring Valley Road apartment of Destiny Rhoades, 23, last week.

Rhoades was at work but another roommate said she found Octavia Aquino unresponsive and "beyond help."

A police officer said the little girl was "cold to the touch," according to the Evansville Police Department.

Octavia was immediately transported to a hospital "alive" but with "very little brain activity." She died a few days later.

Rhoades' boyfriend, Christian T. Gonzalez, 16, was inside the apartment with three other adult women who also live there when Octavia was discovered.

"A roommate stated that she noticed the child had bruises on her body (on Thursday), specifically around her neck area," stated the release.

"She also had a human bite mark on her forearm. Detectives were told the 16-year-old boyfriend admitted he bit the child, but only after she bit him first."

One of the roommates told authorities that Octavia "seemed to be staring off and was nauseous' while in Rhoades' care the night before she was found unconscious.

Rhoades was arrested and charged with neglect of a dependent resulting in serious bodily injury; however, the charge was later amended to neglect of a dependent resulting in death after the child passed away.

Gonzalez first appeared in juvenile court on Monday and the case was moved to adult court.

He was originally charged with battery resulting in serious injury but that has been upgraded to murder.

As the investigation remains ongoing, Octavia's family continues to struggle with the death.

"I feel lost," Octavia's grandmother, Linda Alvarez, told WFIE-TV. "I feel broken. She's just one of the happiest, always smiling, full of life, spunky little girls that I've ever met in my life."

She added, "I don't understand how anyone can hurt an innocent little baby. She's four."
Swisslog has won two German Brand Awards -- the Corporate Brand of the Year and the Logistics & Infrastructure awards.

"We are thrilled to receive two German Brand Awards," said Emma Daniels, Head of Marketing EMEA at Swisslog. "This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions and maintaining a strong, consistent brand that resonates with our customers and partners globally. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire global team."

Swisslog CEO Jens Schmale adds: "This achievement is a reflection of our relentless pursuit of quality and the strength of our brand in the marketplace. I am incredibly proud of our team whose passion and commitment make accomplishments like this possible. We will continue to strive for excellence and deliver outstanding value to our customers worldwide."

Logistics automation

Swisslog rebranded in 2023 to better reflect its position in the digital and dynamic world of the future. The rebranding strategy further positions Swisslog as a future shaper in logistics automation, but it is also about much more. It reflects the strength and expertise of its people. Swisslog colleagues  the humans behind automation - are at the heart of everything they do, and they want their customers to know they can rely on their proven expertise.

The German Design Council, established as a foundation in 1953 by the German Bundestag, is one of the world's leading competence centres for communication and knowledge transfer in design, branding, and innovation. The council's mission is to represent the interests of companies committed to high-quality design and to help enhance the understanding of the importance of brand and design.

Swisslog was presented with the awards at the German Brand Award ceremony, which took place in Berlin at The Uber Eats Music Hall.--TradeArabia News Service
Dubai Chamber of Commerces second quarterly roundtable meeting of Business Groups and Councils for 2024 created a valuable platform to highlight prospects for economic growth and explore the promising opportunities.

The meeting of the sector-specific Business Groups and country-specific Business Councils overseen by the chamber attracted representatives from private sector companies operating in the emirate.

The session Attendees were briefed on the chambers latest programmes and initiatives, together with its future plans to drive the success of the private sector and ensure an enabling environment that supports the sustainable growth of businesses in the emirate. Participants discussed ways to enhance the competitiveness of local companies and improve their performance in line with global economic developments.

24 meetings

During the first quarter of 2024, Dubai Chamber of Commerce held 24 meetings with Business Groups and Business Councils, including the inaugural Annual General Meetings of the Polish Business Council and the Qazaqstan Business Council. The chamber also reviewed 33 laws and draft laws in cooperation with Business Groups during Q1 2024, with the resulting recommendations achieving an adoption rate of 45%.

Maha Al Gargawi, Vice President of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers, commented: Advancing the interests of the business community in Dubai remains among our top strategic priorities. We are committed to increasing the private sectors contribution to Dubais economic success story by enhancing the role of Business Groups and Councils in improving the emirates favourable business environment, which helps promote the growth of companies across all sectors.

The Business Groups and Business Councils operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chamber of Commerce ensure the representation of diverse business and economic sectors and are instrumental in facilitating productive dialogue between private sector stakeholders and government entities.

Through their activities, these influential bodies work to enhance Dubais dynamic business environment, promote public-private partnerships, and drive the success of businesses in the emirate.--TradeArabia News Service
InfraX, a subsidiary of Digital DEWA, the digital arm of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, signed a memorandum of understanding with Nokia, a B2B technology innovation leader, with an aim to revolutionise connectivity solutions for businesses across the UAE.

The agreement, which marks a significant milestone in the realm of network infrastructure, was signed by InfraX's Chief Operating Officer, Rashid Al Ahmedi and Rima Manna, Vice President of Network Infrastructure for the Middle East and UAE country director at Nokia.

Through this strategic collaboration, InfraX and Nokia will pool their expertise and resources to deliver state-of-the-art network infrastructure solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of InfraX's clients in the UAE.

Leveraging Nokia's renowned product lineup, InfraX will introduce high-performance network solutions that set new benchmarks for reliability, resilience , and scalability.

These solutions provide a strong foundation for the introduction of innovative applications and services designed to enhance DEWAs systems and deliver differentiated value for their customers.

"We are pleased to join forces with Nokia, a powerhouse in network infrastructure technology, to drive innovation and excellence in the UAE market, said Rashid Al Ahmedi, COO of InfraX.

At InfraX, we have always been committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements to better serve our customers.

Teaming up with Nokia allows us to amplify this commitment by offering a comprehensive suite of networking solutions that are robust, reliable and future-proof, ensuring that our clients remain ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.

As part of the collaboration, InfraX will gain access to Nokia's comprehensive partner programme, equipping the company with the tools and support needed to deliver unparalleled value to its clients.

By harnessing Nokia's industry-leading technology and InfraX's deep understanding of market dynamics, the partnership aims to address a diverse range of market segments with bespoke solutions tailored to specific client requirements.

"At Nokia, we are dedicated to driving digital transformation and empowering businesses to unlock their full potential through robust network infrastructure, said Rima Manna, Vice President of Network Infrastructure for Middle East and UAE country director at Nokia.

We are looking forward to partnering with InfraX to bring our cutting-edge solutions to the UAE market, driving new-age digital transformation in an increasingly interconnected world.

With the combined strengths of InfraX and Nokia, public and private enterprises can expect a comprehensive suite of network solutions that deliver unparalleled performance, reliability, and scalability.

This partnership underscores both companies' commitment to driving innovation and accelerating the adoption of next-generation networking technologies in the UAE.  TradeArabia News Service
Qatar has ranked 11th rank out of 67 countries, most of which are developed countries, by the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024, issued by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Switzerland, a report said.

The country ranked 12th rank last year, Qatar News Agency, QNA, said.

In the report, Qatar ranked high in the four main factors: economic performance (4th), government efficiency (7th), business efficiency (11th), and infrastructure (33rd).

The competitiveness assessment was based on the developments witnessed by a comprehensive set of data and indicators provided at the local level, along with the results of an opinion poll of a sample of company managers and businessmen on the business environment and the competitiveness of the Qatari economy, as well as comparing such data and indicators with counterparts from other reviewed countries.

Qatar's rank was positively influenced by the outstanding performance of many subfactors classified under the four factors mentioned above. Under the economic performance factor, the most prominent indicators were the unemployment rate, youth unemployment rate, and terms of trade index in which the country ranked first globally.

Within the government efficiency factor, the Qatari economy ranked first in both the consumption tax rate and the personal income tax rate, while it ranked second in the public finance index.

As for the business efficiency factor, Qatar ranked first globally in both the effectiveness of corporate boards and the migrant stock, while it came in second place globally in the working hours index.

Under the infrastructure factor, Qatar ranked first in the subfactors of energy infrastructure and the number of internet users per 1000 people.

It should be noted that this year's report is the 16th edition in a row in which Qatar participates, and it is the fruit of continuous cooperation between the International Institute for Management Development and the National Planning Council.

Secretary General of the National Planning Council Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, said: "These outstanding results reflect the insight and wise vision of Qatar's leadership.

They also confirm that Qatar is on the right track towards achieving the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030 by implementing the contents of the Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030."
The International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) is looking to expand collaboration with leading Brazilian agri-tech institutions to bolster efforts aimed at increasing food security and alleviating hunger worldwide.

Joining more than 500 high-level delegates, including senior government and business representatives, from different countries, Dr Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA, participated in the International Conference on Food Security and Fighting Hunger Josue de Castro in Sao Paulo, Brazil, at the invitation of Jose Aldo Rebelo Figueiredo, Municipal Secretary of International Affairs of Sao Paulo.

ICBAs participation in the conference is aligned with its endeavor to strengthen cooperation with leading Brazilian agri-tech institutions to support local and global efforts to increase food security and reduce hunger. Dr Tarifa Alzaabi held discussions and meetings with different partners with a focus on these goals, as well as ICBAs work in saline and arid regions to address agricultural challenges through research and innovation.

Challenges to food security

Dr Alzaabi participated as a speaker in a special session on science and biotechnology and spoke about the challenges to food security in the Arab region, including water scarcity, drought and salinisation, and severe effects of climate change that the region is experiencing.

She presented examples of the innovative solutions that the center uses to mitigate and adapt to these challenges, including climate-resilient crops, water-saving technologies, solutions for reject brine management, soil amendments, and plant pest controls.

She also emphasised the importance of collaboration between organisations and countries, pointing out ICBAs partnerships with Brazilian agri-tech institutions such as the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa).

Dr Alzaabi said: As a global agricultural powerhouse, Brazil has many leading agri-tech and agribusiness companies. And we aim to build long-term and mutually beneficial relationships with them in various fields. We believe it is important to exchange scientific know-how and expertise, conduct joint scientific research, and exchange experts and specialists to achieve greater impact as we work towards more sustainable and resilient agrifood systems.

Exceptional platform

Dr Celso Moretti, a member of ICBAs Board of Directors, a researcher and former President of Embrapa, said: This conference was an exceptional platform to exchange insights and experiences on effective ways to deal with global challenges like hunger and climate change, among other things. South-South cooperation was at the center of these discussions, bringing together leading agri-tech organisations from various countries. We look forward to seeing the results of this cooperation in the near future.

Dr Alzaabi also took part in another panel discussion titled Commerce, Sustainability and Nutrition at the headquarters of the Brazilian Rural Society in Sao Paulo. This discussion convened scientists and experts in agriculture, sustainability, and nutrition from several countries.

She briefed the audience about ICBAs research and development projects aimed at increasing food security and nutrition and addressing climate change and other threats to agriculture in saline and arid environments. In particular, she noted the role of ICBAs genebank collection of salt-, heat- and drought-tolerant plants in developing more resilient and nutritious varieties.

These events underscored the importance of collaborative efforts locally and globally and presented new opportunities for cooperation in agricultural science and innovation.--TradeArabia News Service
KBR, a leading provider of technology and engineering solutions, has been awarded a five-year contract, with options, to support the Iraqi government's visionary infrastructure and future energy ambitions, including the delivery of megaprojects and sustainable development.

Under the terms of the $46-million contract, KBR will provide its differentiated advisory and consultancy capabilities to the Iraqi Governments Ministry of Planning, with a focus on creating an effective program environment to support successful delivery of strategic megaprojects, the company said.

Focus areas of KBR expertise supporting the ministry, who interface with all ministries and formations in the Iraqi government, will include economic planning, strategy development, feasibility studies, technical reviews and large-scale project management, it said.

This contract, which encompasses a comprehensive range of planning and development services, will further elevate the significant role KBR is playing in the development of Iraqs energy sector  working closely with various ministries to identify, design and implement critical projects aimed at enhancing the country's economic and social landscape.

KBRs focus on innovation and sustainability will be integral to delivering the ambitious development plans, aligning with Iraq's long-term vision for growth and environmental stewardship.

Jay Ibrahim, President of KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions, said: This is a great example of KBR utilizing its growing global capabilities to support regeneration and sustainable growth of a nation. We are proud to further our partnerships in country, where we are already helping make our customers ambitious plans a reality. With our deep expertise in engineering and energy solutions, KBR is well positioned to help our valued customers meet their energy security and sustainability objectives.

KBR will support delivery from its global locations, in addition to expanding its well-established footprint in country through the creation of an operational office in Baghdad and the wider prospect of building an engineering design center to enhance the skills of Iraqi engineers. - OGN/TradeArabia News Service
Arenco Accor Properties chefs and their teams took part in the ExpoCulinaire 2024 in the UAE, for chefs, pastry chefs, bakers, cooks, students and culinary professionals, and bagged 19 medals across various categories.

Executive Chef Roziro Mathias, Executive Pastry Chef Dammika Herath and their team of chefs at the Arenco Accor Properties namely, Novotel Suites & ibis Mall Avenue Dubai, Novotel & ibis Deira Creekside Dubai and ibis Al Rigga, were honoured at the three-day annual competition.

ExpoCulinaire is the established home of The Emirates International Salon Culinaire  the biggest and most prestigious culinary competition in the Middle East.

The Salon Culinaire is a visual extravaganza of culinary showcases and practical cookery demonstrations and world-class culinary competitions covering  exciting ice carvings; intricately decorated buffet platters; spectacular pastry and chocolate creations; picture-perfect platters of all manner of edible delights.

A total of 10 chefs participated in this prestigious event and won six bronze medals, eight silver medals and five gold medals, for setting new standards of excellence and innovation in the competition.

Their passion, creativity, and dedication to the culinary arts have earned them this prestigious , said a statement.

The winning chefs:
Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the UAE, has commenced flights to Jaipur, India, with four non-stop services a week, enhancing connectivity between one of India's cultural treasures, and the rest of the world, via Abu Dhabi.

On the new launch, Etihad said this reiterates its commitment to the Indian market, where the airline has increased its capacity by a third over the past 12 months.

The flight on landing was given a grand welcome by senior officials at Jaipur International Airport.

With the resurgence of outbound travel from India, we are thrilled to start four weekly flights to Jaipur, a significant cultural and commercial centre," remarked its CEO Antonoaldo Neves.

By establishing this crucial air link with Rajasthan, we aim to meet the increasing demand from travellers in and around the region, providing them with convenient access to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and seamless connectivity to our extensive global network, while delivering a remarkable flying experience.

From exploring the historic forts and palaces to indulging in the vibrant culture and culinary delights, Jaipur offers visitors a wealth of experiences, said the Emirati airline in a statement.

Travellers from Northwest India will benefit from the non-stop service with seamless access to Etihads expanding network and frequent connections through Abu Dhabi's global links.

Etihad said the new route enables more visitors to explore the emirates rich history and vibrant culture.

Moreover, passengers will experience the exceptional facilities at Zayed International Airports Terminal A, the UAE carriers new home, which sets new standards for travel comfort and service excellence.

Travellers flying from Jaipur to the United States can take advantage of the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility at Abu Dhabi, streamlining the immigration process and ensuring a hassle-free journey, said the airline in its statement.

The flights will be operated with aircraft from the Airbus A320 family, offering Etihads award-winning service to guests, in both Business and Economy cabins, convenient flight timings to the UAEs capital city and seamless connections to destinations across the airlines growing global network, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
Speaking at a post-budget panel discussion yesterday at St Marys College, Port of Spain, Sagewan said, From my research, the energy sector peaked in 2010 and has been on a downward slide since. Since 2010, we have had no major investments in the energy sector because we simply dont have the gas; and if we dont have the gas, there is no rationale for the huge company to put down a petrochemical plant that needs a guarantee of 15 years to make that investment.
A transgender woman on the run for the alleged double murder of her parents in Utah was captured less than 24 hours after they fled, prompting police to lift a shelter-in-place order.

Mia Bailey, 28, surrendered to officers in St. George, Utah, Wednesday morning, following a brief negotiation, St.George News reported, citing police.

Authorities began searching for Bailey, whose birth name is Collin Troy Bailey, for the fatal shootings of a man and woman at a Washington City, Utah, residence Tuesday evening.

Investigators did not disclose a motive in the slayings.

"Mia wears wigs and is known to change hairstyles frequently," police previously said, describing her as white, 5-foot-10, and 130 lbs.

The Department of Public Safety and the St. George Police Department also aided in the investigation.

"She needs to be found," St. George Police Lt. Tiffany Mitchell previously said in a video shared on Facebook Wednesday morning. "Be vigilant. Don't approach her. Keep your doors locked."

"We understand this is a scary situation," added Mitchell.
The mother of the suspect in the double murder of Tara Geeta Ramsaroop and her infant daught
In the confusing aftermath of a car accident, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Big Auto Accident Attorneys, a national team of top-tier lawyers specializing in vehicle accident injuries, recommends these five important steps. Taking these five actions will help you protect your rights, get the care you need and ensure that the negligent driver who caused injury and damage is held accountable.

Get checked by a medical professional

If you havent already seen a health care provider to review any symptoms or pain you are experiencing, do that right away. Due to the shock and adrenaline surge that typically occurs after a traumatic event, accident victims will often assume that symptoms are minor and that theyll go away on their own. However, symptoms can worsen hours, days or even weeks after an accident. A thorough checkup with a provider and documentation of your injuries will be important to establish your case.

Write down or record everything you remember about the accident

Document the details of your accident while they are still fresh in your memory. Be specific about the date, time and location of the accident, including whether the accident occurred near a school or construction zone.

Describe the weather and road conditions, note the names of all parties involved and state the name of the law enforcement agency or emergency responders who were at the scene. Do the best you can with your recollection.

Start an accident file

Along with your written or recorded notes, include any photos you took of the vehicles, license plates, road markings and general conditions at the scene. Organize these photos for safekeeping  they will help tell your story. If possible, obtain a copy of the accident report from law enforcement or emergency responders who were there.

Ignore any settlement offers until you consult an attorney

Insurance agencies often make lowball offers hoping that accident victims will simply take the settlement and walk away. Be sure to have an attorney who specializes in personal injury auto accidents meticulously investigate the details of your case so you dont miss out on a potentially better settlement.

Contact Big Auto Accident Attorneys for a free case evaluation

Big Auto is a national team of auto accident personal injury experts. Their experienced attorneys will give you the support you need and fight for the maximum settlement you deserve. Go to BigAuto.com to find out what your case might be worth. You dont pay Big Auto unless you win.

This content was produced by Brand Ave. Studios. The news and editorial departments had no role in its creation or display. Brand Ave. Studios connects advertisers with a targeted audience through compelling content programs, from concept to production and distribution. For more information contact sales@brandavestudios.com.
Authorities confirmed remains found in a basement one day after a man was convicted of his wife's murder belong to his ex-girlfriend who disappeared in 2020.

Cambria County Coroner Jeff Lees said Jilly Todaro was a "victim of homicidal violence" identified through body imaging by a forensic odontologist and anthropologist, according to the Associated Press.

He did not elaborate on her manner of death.

Todaro's body was found buried in the basement of 48-year-old convicted murderer Brian Bradley Giles' Johnstown, Pennsylvania, home Friday, the day after he was found guilty in the slaying of his wife, Nancy Giles, who disappeared in October 2018.



Nancy's body was found buried near a trail in Johnstown in 2020, investigators said, according to WJAC-TV and The Tribune-Democrat.

Giles and Todaro were in a relationship the same time police were investigating Nancy's disappearance. Authorities had been in contact with Todaro before she vanished.

"Jilly was really a nice person. She really was," Cambria County District Attorney Greg Neugebauer said, the outlet reported. "I don't think she always liked things I had to say to her, or Jessica (Aurandt, assistant district attorney) had to say to her, but we were coming from a good place, trying to help her. She was a good person."

"This one hits me a little differently," Neugebauer said. "Every homicide is a tragedy. This one is just a little different."

"I just wish that Jilly could have seen, in her lifetime, the amount of people who rallied together, who made a lot of sacrifices to ensure that she was found and treated with the dignity she deserved," explained Aurandt. "I wish she could have seen how many people care. I see a lot of public response to this case. I wish she knew how many people cared, and how many people care now."

Neugebauer said he expects to file murder charges against Giles soon.
PHOENIX  Gov. Katie Hobbs isnt going to allow teachers and librarians to be locked up if they provide sexually explicit materials within a public school or public library.

Legislation to do so was one of three measures the Democratic governor vetoed Tuesday.

This legislation is an attack on public schools and public libraries, and does nothing to protect minors, Hobbs wrote, her entire veto message on that bill.

Other bills vetoed Tuesday by Hobbs include:

Subjecting public entities to lawsuit losses in certain cases where employees committed sexual offenses against minors;

Requiring the state health department to license out-patient facilities where individuals could get psilocybin-assisted therapy;

Mandating that any doctor, health care institution or anyone else who performs gender transition procedures pay for detransitioning.

All this came as the governor, as expected, penned her approval to legislation to balance the state budget for the current fiscal year. The new $17.2 billion spending plan ensures the state has a positive cash balance on June 30 as required by the Arizona Constitution.

Hobbs also signed the documents making up the $16.1 billion spending plan for the budget year that begins July 1. The package was narrowly approved Saturday by the GOP-controlled Legislature despite opposition from some Republicans who said it still contained too much spending and some Democrats who objected to cuts being made in what they said are needed programs.

That budget plan also seeks to sweep $195 million during a four-year period out of a $1.14 billion settlement the state made with opioid manufacturers and pharmacies to settle claims they are responsible for addiction. The money would be funneled into the Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry.

But the future of that allocation remains in doubt as Attorney General Kris Mayes insists the settlement agreement, approved by a federal judge, restricts how those dollars can be spent. She rejected claims by the governor, her fellow Democrat, and GOP legislative leaders that the money is needed to provide treatment to inmates who are addicted to various drugs.

Mayes, arguing that it is just a scheme to balance the state budget and the funding shortfall in the prison system, said she is weighing legal options.

School, library materials

Bill sponsor Sen. Jake Hoffman, a Queen Creek Republican, had said the measure on sexually explicit materials was necessary to put some teeth into existing laws on access by minors to certain materials.

State law makes it illegal for a public school to use or refer students to any sexually explicit material. That is defined as text, visual or audio materials that depict sexual conduct, sexual excitement or ultimate sexual acts.

There are exceptions for materials that possess serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value. But even then, a student needs written parental consent on a per-item basis.

The problem, Hoffman told colleagues, is that these materials are showing up in school classrooms as teachers can bring in their own materials. He said school librarians pretty much make their own decisions on what to put on shelves.

As evidence, he brought a copy of a book called Its Perfectly Normal to a committee hearing, which he said was promoted as being for ages 10 and older. He showed lawmakers drawings included of youths masturbating and two teens having sex.

The legislation was not limited to classrooms  or even schools.

His measure sought to make it a Class 5 felony, with a presumptive 18-month term in state prison, for any violation done with criminal negligence.

Hoffman also sought to apply the felony charge to any employee or independent contractor at a public library who referred a minor to any sexually explicit material or facilitated that childs access.

Hobbs did not get into the merits of any of that in rejecting the bill in her one-sentence veto message.

Liability

The measure on public entity liability was designed to close what Sen. Shawnna Bolick, R-Phoenix, considers a gap in the statutes.

Current law generally immunizes those entities from being sued for the actions of employees, even in felonies, unless the entity knew of the workers propensity to take that action.

Bolicks legislation would have eliminated that immunity if it was a sexual offense on a minor if the public employer did not do a background check, or if the entity failed to reasonably investigate or take action on alleged violations of written policies.

Gretchen Jacobs, the mother of a special needs child, told lawmakers the change would be appropriate.

The application of immunity provides the perverse incentive of a reward for public entities of immunity for willful blindness, she said.

Jacobs pointed to one case where an employee was fired for sexually violating a patient. He then was hired by a school district.

She said child pornography was found on his computer, which included nude photos of a nonverbal, non-ambulatory special needs student in his care. But a lawsuit by the parents on behalf of their daughter was thrown out when a judge said there was no evidence the school district knew of his propensity because there was no evidence the district contacted the prior employer.

Hobbs, in her veto message, said the measure is flawed.

Legislation that expands public entity liability needs to be carefully tailored and thoughtfully executed, she wrote. This legislation does not meet that standard.

Psychedelic mushrooms

The proposal on psychedelic mushrooms was pushed by Sen. T.J. Shope. The Coolidge Republican said it would not legalize the drug for recreational purposes but instead would be a way of providing treatment, in a clinical setting, for those struggling with things like post-traumatic stress disorder and other health issues.

Shope said he has heard multiple stories from individuals, particularly those who were in the military, who found themselves still suffering with mental trauma.

Hobbs noted the state formed a psilocybin research advisory board last year. And she said the panel, in its first report, concluded that while it may be a promising treatment, we do not yet have the evidence needed to support widespread clinical expansion.

Arizonans with depression and PTSD deserve access to treatments that may be seen as outside the mainstream, Hobbs wrote. But they should not be the subject of experiments for unproven therapies with a lack of appropriate guardrails.

Gender detransitioning

The legislation on gender detransitioning was brought by Sen. Janae Shamp. The Surprise Republican said there are individuals who, after having someone perform gender reassignment surgery, change their minds only to find the health-care providers wont reverse the procedures.

Shamp said she had no idea how many would be affected but quoted a 2022 study saying there are 53,000 adults from Arizona who are on a web discussion page for transgender adults and another 7,000 ages 13 through 17.

Hobbs vetoed the measure, saying it is unnecessary and would create a privacy risk for patients.

The veto drew a sharp response from Shamp.

If doctors are going to block the natural puberty process of children and surgically alter the genitalia of people struggling with gender dysphoria, they must be prepared to undo the damage  as much as possible, she said in a written statement.
Steve Metzer Tulsa World Capitol Bureau Staff Writer Follow Steve Metzer Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

OKLAHOMA CITY  Brian Bingman defeated two other Republican candidates in the Oklahoma Corporation Commission GOP primary on Tuesday.

The race to determine a potential successor to longtime Corporation Commissioner Bob Anthony was the only statewide primary contest held. As the winner, Bingman will compete against one Democrat candidate, Harold Spradling, and a lone Libertarian, Chad Williams, in the general election set for Nov. 5.

According to complete, unofficial results from the Oklahoma State Election Board, Bingman captured 126,733 votes, or 53.42% of the total 237,234 cast. Challenger Justin Hornback received 68,003 votes, or 28.66%. The third GOP candidate, Russell Ray, tallied 42,498 votes, or 17.91% of the total cast.

In a telephone interview with the Tulsa World, Bingman, 70, said he was grateful for the turnout and for the support of a majority of Republican voters, which allowed him to avoid the possibility of a runoff. He thanked his opponents, as well, and said they ran solid campaigns stressing the importance of protecting consumer interests while balancing the needs of businesses regulated by the Corporation Commission.

Bingman said it was a good thing that Oklahomans seem to be more aware these days of the significance of the Corporation Commission and how decisions made by commissioners directly affect them. He said he would rely on his background in business and government and would approach the job with an open mind and be ready to listen to all parties before making decisions that would affect things such as rates paid by consumers for gas and electricity. He said he would work with others to try to make Oklahoma attractive to new business investment.

Bingman holds a business degree with a focus on petroleum land management and has worked for some 40 years in the energy industry, including many years managing properties for oil and gas companies in Tulsa.

The Republican got his start in Oklahoma politics as a council member and mayor in Sapulpa. He served a single term in the Oklahoma House of Representatives before being elected in 2006 to represent the 12th District in the state Senate. In 2011, he was elected by fellow majority Republicans to serve as president pro tem of the Senate, a position he would hold until 2016, when he was term-limited and not allowed to run again.

Bingman challenged Anthony for his Corporation Commission seat in 2018 but was defeated. This year, he drew support from Gov. Kevin Stitt and former Gov. Frank Keating, among others, in the race to replace Anthony, who was term-limited himself after serving for 36 years.

Bingman said he hasnt contemplated whether he might run again for office or whether a six-year term at the Corporation Commission would be his last.

I have no desire at this point to retire, he said.

The Corporation Commission is responsible for regulating public utilities in the state not under municipal or federal jurisdiction. Its three members also oversee regulation of oil and gas drilling and production, environmental protection, and rules regarding trucking, rail operations and more.

As reported by the publication OK Energy Today, Bingman received campaign contributions totaling nearly $399,000. Nearly $43,000 came from executives and a PAC at Oklahoma Gas and Electric. Sixteen executives, including company President Sean Trauschke, supported Bingman.

The other two commissioners currently serving are Kim David and Todd Hiett.
The beginning of a new era in driving was signaled in 1953 with the opening of the $38 million, 88-mile toll road connecting Tulsa and Oklahoma City -- the Turner Turnpike.

The ceremony was at Stroud, about midway between the two big cities, where former Gov. Roy J. Turner, who conceived the toll road idea, addressed 3,000 to 4,000 people who attended the dedication. It didn't take long for the turnpike to gain favor among drivers because of its 70 mph speed limit, 17-mile shorter distance and the absence of city and town traffic.

The route cut at least an hour off the time required to drive between the cities on the narrow, winding U.S. 66. Speaking at the ceremony on May 16, 1953, Turner and Gov. Johnston Murray, his successor, said toll roads were an answer to the need for better highways.

Nine additional turnpikes have been built since then. People crowded around a speakers' stand to hear Turner, Murray and a few others as clouds threatened rain.

After the ceremony, all were allowed to drive home on the toll road without charge. The crowd included the four members of the Turnpike Authority.

Earlier that day, hundreds of cars lined up two abreast in Tulsa and Oklahoma City waiting for the barriers at the toll booths to be removed and give them a chance to drive on the new four-lane highway.

Ray Willhoite of Tulsa was the first motorist at the Tulsa gate to receive a ticket that called for the payment of $1.40 at Oklahoma City. The Stroud event included a colorful pageant that depicted various modes of travel from the ancient Indian travois to a modern super-powered automobile.

In preliminary ceremonies, Turner spoke at the Oklahoma City end and cut a ribbon while Murray spoke at Tulsa and cut a ribbon. Caravans then proceeded to Stroud for the main event.

Roberta Bushyhead, member of a noted Cherokee Indian family, had been chosen as Tulsa's queen to reign over dedication ceremonies for the Tulsa terminus of the highway the previous day.

She and five other queens, representing other cities on the highway, participated in the Stroud event. Both Gov. Murray and Turner predicted the turnpike would reduce the "useless slaughter" on highways.

Both also predicted the toll road would be well received and that the bonds would be liquidated before the 40-year retirement period ended. Turner also recounted the difficulties in getting the highway financed. He said he required four years to convince the first investment banker that the highway was viable.

After that, 40 investment firms submitted bids for the self-retiring bonds. The Turnpike Authority first borrowed $21 million but had to obtain additional funds before the road could be completed. Construction also was delayed, at first by legislative and legal problems and later by a steel shortage and by bad weather.

Oklahomans voted in 1954 to cross-pledge income on turnpike projects, meaning money collected from all the turnpikes helps to pay off the bonds for all turnpikes.

Like this column? Read all the columns in the Only in Oklahoma series from the Tulsa World Archive.
Chinese premier calls China, Australia a close community of shared interests

Xinhua) 09:28, June 19, 2024

Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the 7th China-Australia CEO Roundtable with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and delivers a speech in Perth, Australia, June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

PERTH, Australia, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Tuesday that China and Australia benefit from each other's development and are a close community of shared interests.

Li made the remarks while attending the 7th China-Australia CEO Roundtable with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Around 30 representatives of business councils and enterprises from the two countries attended the meeting.

After listening to the remarks of representatives from the industrial and commercial circles of both countries, Li said China-Australia relations are showing a positive momentum of steady improvement at present.

He said that looking back at the 52 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, it is clear that as long as both sides respect each other's national conditions and core interests, they would continuously strengthen the foundation of mutual trust.

As long as the two sides stick to frank dialogue, tolerance and mutual understanding, they can properly manage their differences, and as long as the two uphold the spirit of openness, cooperation and mutual achievement, they would achieve more mutually beneficial and win-win results, Li said.

He called on the two countries to draw wisdom and inspiration from such valuable experience, build a correct perception of each other, and stay committed to the general direction of friendly cooperation, so as to push forward the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership for steady and long-term progress.

China-Australia economic and trade cooperation should be placed in the context of comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, and it is necessary to view it from a comprehensive and strategic perspective to better grasp the general trend, Li said.

China and Australia, Li said, enjoy complementary economic strengths and are natural partners for cooperation.

He said that bilateral cooperation also enjoys broad prospects and is an important force for stabilizing industrial and supply chains and boosting economic growth.

Li also expressed the hope that entrepreneurs of the two countries will continue to deepen cooperation in traditional fields.

He urged them to expand their cooperation into new areas, such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, life sciences and other future industries, to make the pie of bilateral win-win cooperation even bigger, and contribute to promoting exchanges and cooperation between China and Australia in a wide range of areas.

Li noted that China is planning major measures for further comprehensively deepening reform and steadily expanding institutional opening up, and China's business environment will get better and better.

Li expressed the hope that all entrepreneurs will seize the opportunity and work together to achieve more fruitful results in development and cooperation.

For his part, Albanese said in his speech that China is Australia's largest trading partner and China's development has brought new development opportunities for Australia.

At present, Australia-China relations are stabilizing and improving, and the business communities of the two countries are enthusiastic about cooperation, Albanese said, noting that Australia is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in such areas as economy and trade, mineral resources, innovation, maintaining stability of the production and supply chains and addressing climate change, so as to push for more fruitful results in practical cooperation between the two countries.

Australia stands ready to work with China to actively look into the future, advance common interests, meet common challenges, achieve mutual benefit and win-win results, and bring benefits to the two peoples, he said.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pose for a group photo with participants before the 7th China-Australia CEO Roundtable in Perth, Australia, June 18, 2024. Li attended the 7th China-Australia CEO Roundtable with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and delivered a speech on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
A Michigan man accused of punching his roommate to death was allegedly motivated by a dispute over Taco Bell.

Mark Newsome, 54, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the fatal assault of 72-year-old roommate Dale Mitchell at a Roseville, Michigan, boarding house in January, Macomb County prosecutors announced Monday.

Newsome allegedly punched Mitchell several times in the head after the pair got into an argument over Taco Bell.

"Oh God, it scared the hell out of me, it really did," their roommate Bob McQuade told WJBK-TV.

"There was blood all over upstairs," another roommate, Larry Melton, alleged.

The men said Newsome accused Mitchell of stealing his food.

"To think a fight over food would escalate into murder," said McQuade, roommate. "It's inconceivable."

"It's just senseless," he continued. "I trusted Mark as my friend. I could never believe he would've done something like that."

Mitchell was denied bond and will next appear in court July 2.
Felix Clary Tulsa World Indigenous Affairs Reporter Follow Felix Clary Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

MIAMI, Oklahoma  Oklahoma Turnpike Authority Executive Director Joe Echelle stood before 31 tribal leaders on Tuesday to make his case for adding tribal members to the states PlatePay cashless toll system.

Gov. Kevin Stitt has previously said he would like all of the tribal tag compacts to work the same as the Choctaw and Chickasaw compacts, meaning no tribe would operate its own tag agency. Echelle presented a slightly different argument during a panel discussion before the United Indian Nations of Oklahoma, which promotes sovereignty, policy and advocacy on behalf of the states tribes.

After implementing the PlatePay system, through which cameras take pictures of license tags on toll roads and motorists without PikePasses are sent bills for their tolls, the OTA looked for the source of leakage in its revenue. It found that the main sources of lost revenue came from motorists without license plates, people with plates that are covered and people with tribal tags issued by nations other than the Choctaw and Chickasaw.

The Choctaw and Chickasaw vehicle tag compacts with the state require tribal members to get their tags from the state rather than from tribal tag agencies. This means the states PlatePay program has all the information needed to bill Choctaw and Chickasaw citizens who use the states toll roads without PikePasses.

Ownership records on vehicles tagged by other tribes are not available to the OTA.

Echelle told the tribes that the only information needed is names, billing addresses and plate numbers.

Were not looking for law enforcement data, he said. Im not CLEET-certified. We just need routine government information that is already shared between states. That is all I ask the tribes to help with. We can provide PikePasses to the tribes, even through your tribal tag offices. You could provide the PikePass for your citizens, making you a service provider, and we would pay you to do that.

Sharing tragic toll booth stories with the audience, Echelle said the PlatePay system is necessary because it is safer.

Before the PlatePay system was adopted, he said, an 80-year-old woman stopped at a toll booth to toss her coins into the bucket. She wasnt tall enough to reach it from her car window, so she opened her door to lean out and pay her toll. Her foot slipped off the break and hit the gas pedal, and her car ran over her, Echelle said.

To pay for the implementation of the PlatePay system without raising tolls, Echelle expressed how important it is to receive toll payments from citizens of all Oklahoma tribal nations.

The United Indian Nations of Oklahoma held its quarterly meeting Tuesday at the Buffalo Run Casino and Hotel. Representatives from the National Congress of American Indians, UINO and 31 of the federally recognized tribes held panel discussions on the tribal plate pay debate. The audience of around 60 people had the opportunity to pose questions to each speaker.

Sandra Golden from the Muscogee Nation asked Echelle how the OTA has worked with the tribes, saying it failed to give the tribes any advance notice or consultation about PlatePay.

Echelle apologized for not being able to tell the tribes sooner: We wanted to know earlier, but we werent ready to go live with providing how many tribal tags we were seeing until May of last year. Thirteen months ago, I didnt have anything to come and talk to a tribal chief with. I didnt have any data before last May. I reached out to the tribes within a couple of months of it being implemented.

New Ottawa Chief Kalisha Burtrum asked Echelle how many reservations the toll roads intersect with and how much land they take up. Echelle said he didnt know but that the agency tries to keep its footprint as narrow as possible so the turnpikes dont impact their neighbors.

As the Ottawa tribe, we help maintain county roads and maintain city roads. We utilize them on a daily basis. We dont get charged on them, because they are on our land, Burtrum said.

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Randy Krehbiel Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Randy Krehbiel Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Three incumbent U.S. representatives, including the 4th Districts Tom Cole, cruised to easy Oklahoma Republican primary victories on Tuesday, with one of them claiming a record 16th full term.

In the Tulsa area, 1st District Congressman Kevin Hern had no trouble with frequent candidate Paul Royse. Hern piled up nearly 90% of the vote and will meet Democrat Dennis Baker and independent Mark David Garcia Sanders in the Nov. 5 general election.

Baker defeated another frequent candidate, Evelyn Rogers, in the Democratic primary.

Im humbled that the voters of Oklahomas 1st District have put their trust in me, Hern said in a video-recorded statement. As we move forward to one of the most important elections in American history this November, its critical that we have leaders who will put America First.

Cole, the House Appropriations Committee chairman and one of the most influential members of Congress, received 65% of the vote against four primary opponents, including self-funded multimillionaire Paul Bondar.

He faces what is expected to be mild opposition from Democrat Mary Brannon and independent James Stacy in the general election.

My top priority will always be representing the views, the values, and the interests of the people of my district and of the state of Oklahoma, Cole said in a written statement.

Some thought Cole might encounter more resistance from Bondar, a former Midwesterner who most recently lived in Texas until registering to vote in Oklahoma in early April. Despite having no connection to the district, Bondar committed $5 million of his own money toward convincing voters it was Cole who had lost touch with them.

It didnt work. Bondar got 26% of the vote, while the other three candidates, all of whom had endorsed Bondar, divided the remaining 9%.

Also winning with customary ease was 3rd District Congressman Frank Lucas, who logged 73% of the vote against two challengers.

In doing so, Lucas earned a 16th full term after winning a special election in 1994. The 16th full term ties Tom Steed (1949-1981) for the most terms for any U.S. representative from Oklahoma and puts him on track to surpass Steed as the states longest-serving House member.

Two of the states House members did not have primaries.

Second District Congressman Josh Brecheen and 5th District Congresswoman Stephanie Bice advanced straight to the general election. Breechen is opposed by Democrat Brandon Wade and independent Ronnie Hopkins, while Bice meets Democrat Madison Horn.
Luisa Clausen Staff Writer Follow Luisa Clausen Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Tito Jackson finally found the peace he was looking for in Claremore.

At 70, the member of the iconic band The Jackson 5  which over the years included his brothers Michael, Jermaine, Jackie, Randy and Marlon  kept looking for silence away from the tours and attention his family still attracts to this day.

Earlier this year, Tito found that place in a house in the Claremore countryside, where he likes to sit on his patio and enjoy nature, far away from the stages and without the screams and cameras he's heard and seen all his life.

I always wanted to get away from the West Coast and experience living somewhere with new people and new culture, Tito told the Tulsa World. California is," he said before taking a long pause, "different.

He recently shared his story at a Juneteenth event at the Claremore Museum of History. His choice to be one of the 20,174 people living in Claremore is not random. His agent and some of his closest friends live in Tulsa. He wanted to spend more time with them.

But what many might not know is that his connection to Oklahoma runs much deeper.

Titos uncle, Samuel Jackson, opened Jackson Undertaking Co. in Tulsa in 1917. It was located at 617 E. Archer St.

On the evening of May 31, 1921, it was burned down during the Tulsa Race Massacre. Samuel Jackson was hired by a white-owned funeral home to embalm the bodies of Black residents who were killed.

Samuel Jackson and his wife at the time, Eunice Cloman, rebuilt the funeral home and were business partners until 1948.

Tito didn't visit his Oklahoma relatives much, but his family did stop by in 1969, and the band performed here multiple times in the 1970s. Tito sang and played guitar in the family band, which traveled all over the world from 1964 through 1989. The Jackson 5 earned four consecutive No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100.

He then worked as a session guitarist and producer while raising his three children. After The Jackson 5 was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, he eventually got back on stage. This summer, Tito is on tour with two of his brothers, Jackie and Marlon, across the country and Europe. He has new music coming out this year.

His family's connection to the massacre wasn't something discussed at all in front of him.

"I didn't know anything until maybe five years ago," he said.

Reflecting back on the history of Black people, Tito felt like growing up was not always easy, even with fame and fortune.

There were a lot of barriers, he said. But it has changed. The process is steadily changing all the time.

What he likes about his home in Oklahoma is the chance to fish when he wants. It's something he can't do at his homes in Nevada and California. So far, the people of Claremore have welcomed him, and he's excited to run into them around town.

As for plans for other famous Jacksons coming to Oklahoma, Tito said he's invited them all to visit and learn about his new home. One of the questions he was asked at the Juneteenth event was whether his famous sister, Janet Jackson, will drop by after her Oklahoma City concert in July.

She is always invited, Tito said.

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Photos: Juneteenth with Tito Jackson in Claremore Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Titio Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson Tito Jackson The Tulsa World is where your story lives HIDE VERTICAL GALLERY ASSET TITLES
Vietnam should leverage its strengths and actively seize opportunities in order to stay competitive in the global electronics industry, a Vietnam Electronic Industries Association (VEIA) representative told a symposium held in Hanoi on Tuesday.

The event, co-organized by VEIA and Global Sources, a leading business-to-business media company, featured discussions on the present and future of the business-to-business sourcing sector, as well as solutions for enhancing Vietnamese enterprises competitiveness in the global supply chain.

Although the impact of an economic slowdown and a shortfall of orders have dampened the manufacturing industry, there are several bright spots amid the gloomy picture of the global economy, such as negotiations for free trade agreements still taking place, the emergence of new growth drivers, and ongoing trends in the electronics industry, said Do Thi Thuy Huong, member of the VEIA's executive board.

Vietnam could benefit from the fierce U.S.-China tech competition, which may prompt investors to shift their production to neighboring countries, including Vietnam, Huong said.

She said the local electronics industry has remained the top contributor to Vietnams total export revenue and accounted for over 30 percent of the countrys total trade turnover for the past decade.

The industrys growth slowed down a bit last year, with export value reaching US$109 billion.

During the first quarter of this year, Vietnam exported $30.5 billion worth of electronic items, with a trade surplus of $4.2 billion.

The U.S and China are the biggest buyers of Vietnamese electronic products.

Vietnam also remained the world's second-largest smartphone exporter and ranked fifth among the top exporters of computers in the first three months.

However, local enterprises have yet to engage deeply in the global electronics supply chain.

The VEIA representative underlined the need for Vietnam to grasp opportunities and leverage its strengths to bolster its competitiveness in the global market.

Speaking at the event, Wilson Wu, vice-president at Global Sources, said that Vietnam has emerged as a lucrative investment destination among Chinese businesses in the field.

Vietnam, Malaysia, and India are Chinas three biggest suppliers of electronic products, Wu added.

Vietnam gains a competitive advantage over its rivals by having many assembly factories invested in by major global firms.

Wu elaborated that it is a prime time for Vietnam to make the most of opportunities to thrive further in the electronics industry, for lots of assemblers and importers are shifting production to the Southeast Asian country.

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Many parents of students at Hanh Thong Elementary School in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City have voiced their complaints that their children must bring bottles of water with them to the classroom due to the foul-smelling drinking water at school.

In the second half of May, several parents sent letters of complaints to Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper, lamenting that their children must carry five-liter bottles of water to school each day in the scorching weather.

My child cannot drink water from the schools water purification system, so he must carry a big bottle of drinking water from home to school every day, said H., a parent of a student at Hanh Thong Elementary School.

Her child often shares the water with other classmates, according to H..

As of May, her child and a number of other students had been bringing water bottles with them to the school for eight months as they could not stand drinking the water at school because of its unpleasant smell.

My child told me that the water [at school] was putrid, H. recounted, adding that some parents moaned that their children got a stomach ache after drinking the alleged low-quality water.

A student is pictured carrying a bottle of water to Hanh Thong Elementary School in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City to drink due to foul-smelling water at school in late May, 2024. Photo: Supplied

Many parents said that the school had installed a reverse osmosis (RO) water purification system provided by a firm in early October last year, but the parents were not informed about the installation and that their children would drink the water from the system.

After several parents opposed the school letting their children drink the water and asked the school management board to have samples of the water tested, the school and the firm conducted a test. However, no parents were involved in the testing process.

The test of water quality was conducted by the school and the provider, while we could not supervise the process, so we cannot believe in the result, a parent said.

Principal Le Thi Minh Hoa confirmed to Tuoi Tre that the school had installed an RO water filtration system before a meeting with parents for the 2023-24 school year.

During the previous academic years, the school used bottled water, but I saw that the bottled water was not safe," she explained.

After referencing some information about a firm that provides water filtration systems, I decided to have it install the system at my school to supply students with purified water before the meeting with parents.

Hoa added that before the installation, the company had tested the quality of water at school.

After some parents aired their complaints and disapproved of the water from the system, the school board and the firm continued to test the quality of the water. The latest test was done in March this year.

No parents joined the tests, she said.

The school discussed a plan on testing the water with some parents, but none of them took part in the process, said the school representative.

Trinh Vinh Thanh, head of the Education and Training Division in Go Vap District, mentioned that if parents did not approve of the purified water, students could continue to drink the bottled water they brought with them.

Thanh stated that the division had instructed the school board to gather feedback from parents regarding water provision before the start of the 2024-25 school year.

He clarified that if parents consent to their children drinking purified water from the installed filtration system, that will continue being provided. However, if parents object to this, students can use their own bottled water.

Thanh acknowledged that the school had violated existing regulations by not informing parents about the installation and the change in water provision for students.

A student drinks bottled water at Hanh Thong Elementary School in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Supplied

A student carries a heavy bottle of water to Hanh Thong Elementary School in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City to drink due to foul-smelling water at school. Photo: Supplied

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A convoy of special cars and motorcycles started a rehearsal on the streets of Hanoi on Wednesday morning to get ready to welcome and serve Russian President Vladimir Putin as well as his entourage during their stay in Vietnam from Wednesday to Thursday.

The rehearsal was conducted by the municipal Department of Public Security and the Ministry of Public Security to ensure complete safety and security for the high-ranking Russian delegation.

The convoy of motorcycles was responsible for guiding the delegation from Noi Bai International Airport to their rest location and working venues.

The rehearsal was conducted methodically and earnestly.

A convoy of cars and motorcycles runs on a bridge in Hanoi to start a rehearsal ahead of Russian President Putins visit to Vietnam. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre

Russian President Putin will pay a state visit to Vietnam at the invitation of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Nguyen Phu Trong.

Lieutenant General Nguyen Hai Trung, director of the Hanoi Department of Public Security, underlined that the visit is a key event, so police officers and relevant forces have been ordered to ensure the utmost safety and security for the delegation.

Traffic police officers are tasked with smoothing traffic flow to facilitate the delegations movement, making regular patrols and adopting effective measures to ease traffic jams on the streets through which the convoy carrying the delegation will pass.

A convoy of special cars set to serve Russian President Vladimir Putin and his entourage is pictured traveling from the heart of Hanoi to Noi Bai International Airport. Photo: Hong Quang / Tuoi Tre

An armored car and a motorcycle rehearse to welcome Russian President Vladimir Putin and his entourage to Vietnam. Photo: Nam Tran / Tuoi Tre

A convoy of cars and motorcycles arrives at the Presidential Palace in Hanoi. Photo: Danh Khang / Tuoi Tre

An armored Aurus Senat has become Putins main means of transport since 2018, when he was elected as Russia's president for his fourth term. Photo: Nguyen Khanh / Tuoi Tre

A convoy of motorcycles driven by police officers in charge of protecting the Russian delegation. Photo: Nam Tran / Tuoi Tre

A convoy of cars and motorcycles rehearse for Russian President Putins Vietnam visit. Photo: Danh Khang / Tuoi Tre

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Vietnams history of struggle and victory over adversity has inspired and given great hope to Israel, Israeli Ambassador to Vietnam Yaron Mayer said at a ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City on Tuesday.

He was delivering a speech to celebrate the 76th anniversary of the Independence Day of Israel (May 14).

The event, held by the Israeli Embassy in Vietnam, was attended by deputy chairman of the city Nguyen Van Dung, along with about 250 guests, including Vietnamese and Israeli officials, and the representatives of the Israeli community in Vietnam.

Expressing his great pleasure at the diplomatic relations between the two countries over the past 30 years, the ambassador told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that he highly appreciates the friendship, support, and understanding between both sides.

Every Israeli who comes to Vietnam realizes that the Southeast Asian country has recently obtained many new development achievements, and they all wish to participate in and contribute to this process, Mayer said.

On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion, Israels first prime minister, pronounced the declaration of independence of the State of Israel.

On this occasion, Israelis around the world come together to celebrate the nation's founding and its advances in technology, innovation, culture, and many others.

As a small country in the Middle East, surrounded by a harsh environment, Israel has to always defend its right to exist but the country has still thrived as a democratic and prosperous nation thanks to its efforts, Mayer told the ceremony.

Israeli Ambassador to Vietnam Yaron Mayer speaks at the 76th anniversary of Israel's Independence Day held in Ho Chi Minh City on June 18, 2024. Photo: Nghi Vu / Tuoi Tre

Israelis have found inspiration and great hope in Vietnam's history of struggle and victory over adversity in the past, the diplomat commented.

A Vietnam of peace, prosperity, and development today has given Israel an expectation that the Middle East nation will one day also live in peace and harmony with its neighbors, Mayer stated.

Deputy chairman Dung extended his congratulations to the government and people of Israel on the anniversary of Israels Independence Day.

Since Vietnam and Israel established diplomatic relations on July 12, 1993, the relationship between the two countries has undergone positive progress in many fields for peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world in general.

Particularly, the Vietnam-Israel Free Trade Agreement signed in July 2023 marked a significant milestone in the bilateral cooperation based on mutual trust and a common aspiration for a shared future, Dung said.

Last years two-way trade exceeded US$2.7 billion, he added.

Israels Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (ZIM), one of the world's leading shipping lines, has moved its Southeast Asia hub to Vietnam, opening up a direct trade route between the two countries.

Dung affirmed that the Ho Chi Minh City administration will always facilitate and support the Israeli Embassy in Vietnam in promoting bilateral cooperation programs and projects, contributing to strengthening the friendship and multi-faceted cooperation between Vietnam and Israel.

The Vietnamese official also called on Israeli businesses and investors to speed up investment and seek new mutually beneficial cooperation models and projects.

According to the Israeli Embassy, Ho Chi Minh City is a center for bilateral cooperation in educational and scientific research.

Israels startup support programs have promoted Vietnamese upstarts in the city through exchanges and training with Israeli experts, the embassy said.

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Train trips have been delayed, some for hours, along a railway section where many people park their cars and street vendors place their wares along the tracks in Da Nang City, central Vietnam.

The railway section, located near Da Nang Train Station on Hai Phong Street in Thanh Khe District, spans approximately two kilometers and intersects with residential roads.

Trains typically maneuver at a slow pace along this route to facilitate turning.

A train approaches a densely populated area in Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre

With a history of over 100 years, the track cuts through densely populated areas in Thanh Khe District, where locals often park cars and place business items on the tracks.

When trains approach, they try to swiftly clear their belongings, but delays caused by parked vehicles and other items are not uncommon, sometimes forcing trains to wait for hours.

A railway track cuts through densely populated areas in Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre

In response to frequent traffic disruptions, Da Nang Train Station has deployed personnel ahead of locomotives to clear obstacles and ensure safe passage at reduced speeds.

Local authorities have also launched campaigns urging residents not to obstruct railway operations, and traffic police regularly issue penalties for obstructing railway traffic.

A car is parked right on the railway tracks in Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre

Cars are parked near the tracks in Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre

A car is parked right on the railway tracks in Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre

A vendor sells sugar cane on the railway in Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Truong Trung / Tuoi Tre

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Whataburger must still face claims that a woman was seriously injured when she was cut by a tray. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

A Texas womans 2019 lawsuit against Whataburger claiming she was cut by one the burger chains condiment trays has been revived by a state appeals court two years after it was dismissed by a trial judge.

The 13th Court of Appeals this month announced that it had reinstated a suit brought by Kathy L. McCarty against the popular burger chain. The suit is being returned to the district court in Bexar County that had dismissed it in 2022.

According to the suit, McCarty and her husband, while on a road trip, stopped at a Whataburger near Abilene. There, McCarty alleges, she collided with a Whataburger employee carrying a condiments tray near the soda station. After leaving the restaurant, the suit says, McCarty noticed she was bleeding from a cut on her left arm. She later experienced pain, weakness swollen lymph nodes, cellulitis, tremors in her left hand, fluctuating glucose levels and eventually developed a heart condition.

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Neither Whataburger nor McCartys lawyers immediately responded to a request for comment.

McCartys suit alleged that Whataburger and its employees were negligent in a variety of ways. The appeals court noted that she accused the employees of not watching where they are walking while holding a defective and dangerous condiments tray.

Whataburger, headquartered in San Antonio, had asked for a summary judgment on McCartys suit, arguing that she had failed to connect the dots between the incident and her subsequent health issues, and had not brought forward a scintilla of evidence that Whataburger breached its duty.

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While the trial court granted the summary judgment and dismissed McCartys claims, the appeals court on June 6 reversed that decision after concluding that McCarty had provided enough evidence that she had been injured and that the case should not have been dismissed.
Local authorities in Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi issued an administrative violation record against the owner of a railway-side cafe after one of his patrons rushed onto the tracks to pose for pictures while a train was approaching.

The ward administration also proposed fining the cafe owner, P.N.H., a resident in Hang Bong Ward, VND7.5 million (US$296) as he failed to register his business, a leader of the administration in Hoan Kiem District told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Tuesday.

According to the district government, the womans act was dangerous, threatening her life and railway traffic safety.

On Tuesday morning, a video of the woman rushing onto the tracks to pose for photos while a train was coming went viral on social media.

The case was later identified to have happened on a section of a famed trackside cafe street where coffee shops are just inches from the active railway in Hang Bong Ward on Monday.

Before the train approached, the residents and owners of coffee shops there asked visitors to sit in safe places.

However, the woman suddenly ran to the tracks and stood on them to pose for pictures.

P.N.H. immediately pushed her off of the tracks.

The administration in Hoan Kiem District later asked the authorities in Hang Bong, Cua Nam, Cua Dong, Hang Ma, and Dong Xuan Wards, through which the railway passes, to enhance patrols and strictly levy sanctions against those encroaching on the railway safety corridor.

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Paving bricks and concrete around the roots of the trees along Nguyen Thai Son Street in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City, were removed on Wednesday.

Ho Chi Minh City Greenery Parks Co. Ltd., a state-run company, deployed workers to clear chains from the tree trunks and concrete from their roots.

The workers faced the task of breaking through concrete layers three to four centimeters thick to free the trees.

They constructed tree beds to ensure the trees could grow unhindered.

After the concrete layers were removed, many local residents were dismayed to see that several tree roots were deformed and that the concrete had tightly adhered to some of them.

Workers had to use crowbars to break the thick and hard concrete layer. Photo: Tien Quoc / Tuoi Tre

Phuong Hoa, a 34-year-old resident living on Nguyen Thai Son Street, expressed concern that the trees could not develop normally because their roots had been covered with concrete for a long time.

"Luckily, the concrete was removed. If it hadn't been, the trees may have died soon," Hoa added.

Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper had earlier found that along Nguyen Thai Son Street were over 20 trees four to five meters tall each.

Some of them had their feet deformed as concrete had suffocated them.

Some residents even used large chains to tie signboards to the tree trunks, causing the bark to peel off and dry in hot weather.

Workers found it hard to remove the concrete layer which was three to four centimeters thick. Photo: Tien Quoc / Tuoi Tre

A paving brick tightly adheres to a tree foot. Photo: Tien Quoc / Tuoi Tre

Workers removed paving bricks and built tree beds along Nguyen Thai Son Street in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Tien Quoc / Tuoi Tre

A tree foot is deformed after being covered by concrete for a long time. Photo: Tien Quoc / Tuoi Tre

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A group of tourists from Thai Binh Province in northern Vietnam denounced a restaurant in Quang Ninh Province, home to the world-renowned Ha Long Bay, also in the north, for chasing them away as they were shooting videos of their complaint about the high prices of dishes at the restaurant.

Doan Thi Lan Phuong, one of the tourists, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Tuesday that the restaurant showed signs of overcharging and its owner displayed unethical behavior.

Phuong narrated that at about 1:30 pm on Monday, her family entered Minh Phi Restaurant in Ha Khau Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province for lunch.

After paying over VND2.3 million (US$91) for their meal, Phuong had a look at the bill and supposed the restaurant had fleeced them, so she asked the restaurant to check it again.

According to Phuong, it was expensive to price a dish of 10 roasted mantis shrimp at VND765,000 ($30) and a bowl of clam soup at VND200,000 ($8).

She just asked if the restaurant made any mistake in the bill calculation, Phuong noted.

A member of my family recorded videos of the process as evidence to prove that we discussed [the issue] gently to clarify if the price of the meal was reasonable or not," Phuong said.

"We did not mean to disrupt or cause trouble for the restaurant.

However, while they were talking with a staffer, a man came closer to them with an unfriendly attitude and forced them to stop filming, Phuong recalled.

A screenshot from a video indicates that the tourists complain about the high prices of some dishes at Minh Phi Restaurant in Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province, northern Vietnam.

The tourists did not agree as the restaurant also had cameras, they recorded videos as proof just in case the diner accused them of causing trouble, Phuong added.

As the tourists refused to stop filming, the man hurled offensive words at them, while some other men pushed them out of the restaurant.

The tourists later reported the case to the police and administration in Ha Khau Ward.

Vu Duc Cuong, chairman of the Ha Khau Ward Peoples Committee, said the ward had joined forces with police as well as the local culture and information division to work with the restaurant owner on Tuesday.

Local authorities are working to clarify the case before punishing the restaurant.

The restaurant owner has apologized to the tourists for his and other employees inappropriate behavior and failure to list prices, Cuong informed.

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Unlimited public funding for Hollywood film productions in location incentives makes little sense, it has been argued.

Amanda Lotz, Professor at Queensland University of Technology wrote in Nikkei Asia that location offsets support productions that tell stories about anywhere, by anyone.

This will not deliver Australian stories and will likely make it harder to tell such stories as local producers compete with deep Hollywood pockets for studio space and creative talent, she wrote.

The cultural reasons for supporting movie and film production were forgotten in the early 2000s. Policy became tuned to measures intended to support sector and job growth. But economic benefits are difficult to evaluate in an industry as mobile as film and television production.

Many of the jobs created employed in the screen sector were temporary positions (or transient perhaps?), she argued.

Hollywood productions chase the best incentives around the globe, making rebates less effective than support for industries that are less mobile and which employ workers permanently, said Lotz.

Why do politicians support rebates like location offsets? Politicians like getting their picture taken with movie stars. Announcements of big productions coming to town attract favorable news coverage. Filmmaking-support agencies and Hollywood lobbyists use rhetoric and self-funded reports that claim economic benefits from local filming.

She questioned whether spending more on community infrastructure such as hospitals and schools, or live performance spaces might be better public investments.

This week the NSW Govt announced further funding for its Made in NSW incentive programme.

In a statement, Screen NSW said: Established in 2020, the Made in NSW fund is a five-year program with an original budget allocation of $175 million, designed to support the advancement of NSW as a destination for international and local feature films and major television drama programs.

Since 2020, the funding has leveraged approximately $1.78 billion in production expenditure in NSW and created over 25,000 jobs in the state.

It has attracted major international productions including Anyone But You, The Fall Guy and The Kingdom of the Planet of The Apes, and Australian productions including The Artful Dodger, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart and the upcoming The Narrow Road to the Deep North to NSW, cementing NSW as the premier filmmaking destination in Australia.

One of the additional benefits is surely in tourism.

News.com.au reported since The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart Google searches for Agnes Bluff jumped more than 1600 percent after the series aired.

The Prime Video series was also filmed at real locations in Central Australia, including Alice Springs Desert Park, Simpsons Gap, Ooraminna Station, Standley Chasm, and Ormiston Gorge. While Australia is the top country searching for Agnes Bluff, its followed by Spain, Canada, the UK, US and Italy.

But Professor Kevin Sanson, head of the School of Communication at Queensland University of Technology, said when Hollywood comes to town, the local industry essentially transforms into a service industry.

It creates jobs for below-the-line workers largely, crew, technicians, even someone whose job it is to stand at the perimeter of a shoot location and explain to neighbours that they cant go through, he told news.com.au.

For example, that does very little for our screenwriters in Australia. Theyre not benefiting from a location offset because that work is being brought in from abroad. Were really just servicing the technical side of those productions.
ABC Chair Kim Williams has flagged his first programming priorities for ABC since his appointment in March.

Delivering the Redmond Barry Lecture at the State Library of Victoria last night, Williams said ABC needed to improve its creative program offerings.

I will be having a lot more to say about this topic in further speeches, but for me a few programming priorities stand out for consideration, he said.

Remaining the most trusted source of news and truth; recognising that the ABC will always be judged first and foremost for the quality, integrity and reliability of its news and current affairs services. We need to be on a never ending quest to ensure those services are always striving to improve and remain as a relevant, stable first partner for Australians when it comes to objective reporting and thoughtful analysis and commentary on Australia and the world.

A renewed Radio National as a flagship and standard bearer for the Corporations ethos, purpose and intellectual ambition. We deserve a great national audio service, one that demonstrates the power of the spoken word, the importance of clear thinking, and the sublime force of a wide range of Australian intellects. In this world of contested truths and aggressive opinion, such a trusted source of analysis and pluralist deep thinking is sorely needed.

An increase in serious television documentaries on national and international subjects of relevance which challenge Australians to think widely and respond with delight and wonder. This is something I regard as crucial for the ABCs intellectual credibility and the fulfilment of some central elements of our charter. Frankly more ambition is required to refresh a sense and understanding of Australias great national institutions  our parliaments, our courts, our regulators and public policy processes. And of course, the independence and security offered by the worlds best electoral system.

Expanded drama and comedy production to restore pride in our national creativity and to allow us to discover a new generation of creative spirits. A new generation of brilliantly creative Australians are out there seeking the chance. We have to provide it. This is vitally important  because it is through our actors and film makers and artists and writers that the world knows us, knows our values, and knows what we are capable of. Partnering with the independent production community is crucial for giving invigorated life to national storytelling, that matters.

More coverage and coherent programming for the arts. Books, theatre, dance, music . . . Australians crave more and are voting with their podcasts. We must rank higher and deliver superbly in this league. It is a challenge to enjoy.

And then there is the precious territory of Childrens and Education programming where the ABC is the major, invariably sole provider of a remarkable range of exceptional programming which provides unique Australian ballast against a tidal wave of non-Australian content which is consuming the minds and value sets of the young of this nation. No other media organisation of substance stands up for Australian accents, values, plurality and aspirations which are planted firmly in, and dedicated to, this nation. Make no mistake, without that precious education and childrens material the outlook for Australian knowledge and values is really quite grim. We need to defend and expand those categories of programming in response to the dramatic incursions we have seen from numerous mighty offshore providers.

Making iview into an even better streaming platform with a heavier ballast of Australian-produced content. Ditto with ABC curated podcasts. We can offer better propositions in parallel to the commercial streaming services. Given the direction of technology and citizen behaviours and preferences, this is non-negotiable for the future of the ABC.

Finally, ensuring a revitalised ABC as a respected agent of soft power diplomacy and programming in our region. The continuing work of the ABCs International Services team across the Pacific, in Indonesia and in other major Asian nations, is something of which all Australians can be proud. We now have correspondents or partnerships with local media in all the Pacific nations, where we are also actively offering training to numerous journalists and media operations across the region, all with the support of our colleagues at the Department of Foreign Affairs. We are also delivering a variety of audio and video services which are vital sources of international news and commentary for our Pacific friends. The ABC is the most trusted international media service in the Pacific.

Williams also spoke of rapid decline in commercial newsrooms, fragmenting audiences, loss of advertising revenues to Google, Facebook and others, and market failures in Truth and Trust.

He reiterated the need or good management, great creative energy, imagination, good judgement and courage as well as accountability.

Theres an unfortunate tendency for organisations like ours to indulge in an excess of self-congratulation. This oftentimes takes the place of robust assessment of underperformance. No one enjoys being critical, but well-run organisations must be honest about their performance. And if were honest, there are important areas for improvement, he said.

He also flagged greater investment will be needed.

The ABC is an investment in Australias future because a revitalised ABC will be a source of great national strength. A great national campfire around which our stories can be told and can coalesce into a renovated national narrative about our future. A narrative able to draw all Australians a bit closer together to face up to and make sense of the disrupted times we are in, said Williams.

Such an investment will repay itself over and over and over again.

You can read the speech in full here.
Sakshi Srivastava, TwoCircles.net

In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India elected 74 women MPs, down from 78 in 2019, indicating a decrease in womens representation. Despite progress over the decades, achieving gender parity in the Indian Parliament remains a gradual and uneven process.

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New Delhi: In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, India elected 74 women MPs, four fewer than the 78 elected in 2019. This number represents 13.63% of the Lower House, which is significantly less than the 33% that will be reserved for women after the next delimitation exercise. Despite an increase in the number of women MPs since Indias first elections in 1952, when there were only 22, the percentage of women in the Lower House decreased from 14.4% in 2019 to 13.6% in 2024.

Several prominent women MPs, including Hema Malini of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mahua Moitra of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Supriya Sule of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Dimple Yadav of the Samajwadi Party (SP), retained their seats. New faces like Kangna Ranaut and Misha Bharati also captured attention with their electoral victories. Notably, SPs Priya Saroj, aged 25, secured victory in Machhlishahr, while 29-year-old Iqra Hasan won the Kairana seat, emerging as some of the youngest successful candidates in the elections. The House is set to witness young Dalit women (25-year-old Shambhavi Choudhary from Samastipur in Bihar and 26-year-old Sanjana Jatav from Bharatpur in Rajasthan) raising issues of their respective constituencies.

Womens Reservation Bill

The Constitution (128th Amendment) Bill, 2023, commonly referred to as the Womens Reservation Bill, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on September 19, 2023. It proposes to reserve one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for women. This reservation will be implemented after the first census following the Bills enactment.

Given the delay in the 2021 census, the next census will trigger delimitation to allocate seats for women, and these seats will remain reserved for 15 years.

The Bill also stipulates that reserved seats must be rotated after each delimitation, which is anticipated to occur every 10 years starting from 2026. Additionally, it mandates states to ensure rotational reservation for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes within the reserved seats. Furthermore, the Bill includes provisions for reserving the offices of chairpersons in municipalities, panchayats, and municipal corporations for women.

The primary objective of the Bill is to empower women politically by addressing their historical underrepresentation and promoting inclusivity in decision-making processes at the highest legislative levels.

Monitoring Women Strength in Lok Sabha Over The Years

In 1952, women comprised only 4.41% of Lok Sabha members. Their representation increased to over 6% in the following decade but dropped below 4% by 1971, coinciding with Indira Gandhis tenure as Indias first and only woman Prime Minister. Since then, there has been a gradual upward trend in womens representation, with occasional setbacks, reaching over 10% in 2009 and peaking at 14.36% in 2019.

According to PRS Legislative Research, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing Indias legislative process through research and transparency, women constitute 14% of the MPs in the 18th Lok Sabha, slightly lower than the 2019 figure of 78 women MPs.

Among these women MPs, 16% are under 40 years old. Additionally, 41% (30 MPs) have prior experience as Lok Sabha members, while one MP has served in the Rajya Sabha. Despite the gradual increase in womens representation in the Lok Sabha over time, India lags behind several other countries in parliamentary gender balance. For instance, women make up 46% of MPs in South Africa, 35% in the UK, and 29% in the USA, highlighting the global disparity in parliamentary gender representation.

Decline in Women MPs in 2024

Out of the total 543 MPs elected, only 74 are women, marking a decrease from 78 women MPs (14.4%) in 2019 to 13.6% in the current parliament.

An analysis of Election Commission (ECI) data reveals significant regional disparities in womens representation in the Lok Sabha, reflecting varying levels of gender inclusivity across states. For instance, Chhattisgarh saw over 27% of its MPs elected as women, while West Bengal and Himachal Pradesh exceeded 25%. Uttarakhand and Madhya Pradesh achieved 20% representation. In contrast, Kerala elected no women MPs, and Uttar Pradesh sent only seven women MPs, constituting a mere 8.75%. Punjab and Assam also reported relatively low female representation.

State-wise fluctuations are evident, with Odisha witnessing a decline from 33% women MPs in the 17th Lok Sabha to 19% in the current term. West Bengal has consistently maintained a minimum of 25% women MPs since the 16th Lok Sabha, reflecting the influence of leadership under a woman chief minister (Mamata Banerjee). Bihar has also sustained a high share of women MPs across multiple elections, while Tamil Nadu reached its peak representation at 12.8%. In contrast, Maharashtra and Gujarat, which previously showed an upward trend in women MPs until the 17th Lok Sabha, experienced a decline in the 18th Lok Sabha.

Examining party-wise distribution, the BJP accounted for 42% of the total women MPs elected, with 31 out of 74. This marks a decrease from 41 women MPs in the 17th Lok Sabha. In contrast, the Indian National Congress (INC) reported declines, with four, six, and 13 women MPs in the 16th, 17th, and 18th Lok Sabha respectively, compared to over 20 in the 15th Lok Sabha.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) did not field any women candidates in the 18th Lok Sabha elections, continuing its history of lacking women MPs. Despite significant independent candidacies by womenranging from 250 to 300 candidates, constituting 30 to 35% of all female candidatesnone were successful in securing parliamentary seats. Historically, independent women MPs have been rare, with occasional representation in earlier Lok Sabhas.

The TMC maintained a steady 30% representation of women MPs across the 16th, 17th, and 18th Lok Sabha terms, contrasting with the BJP and the Congress fluctuating percentages of 10% to 13% respectively. Parties like the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Communist Party of India Marxist (CPIM), which previously had women MPs, failed to elect any in the 2024 general elections.

Addressing the Roadblocks

The underrepresentation of women in Parliament persists due to both a scarcity of elected women MPs and a limited number of women contesting elections. In the 18th Lok Sabha elections, women constituted less than 10% of the approximately 8,360 candidates. Despite progress, achieving gender parity remains uneven, influenced by multiple factors. Ongoing efforts to bolster womens political participation aim to narrow this gap and better represent Indias diverse population in legislative decision-making.

Commenting on the current state of womens representation in the Indian Parliament, Prernaa Singh, general secretary of the Supreme Court Women Lawyers Association, told TwoCircles.net, In the 2024 general elections, the proportion of women MPs in the Lok Sabha decreased to 13.7%, down from 14.3% in 2019. This marks a regression after decades of incremental progress, which is concerning given the long-standing efforts to improve gender representation.

Regarding the Womens Reservation Bill, Singh emphasized, The Womens Reservation Bill has the potential to bring about significant changes in Indian politics and society. Its success will depend on effective implementation, addressing potential legal challenges, and fostering societal acceptance. By providing a platform for increased female representation, the bill can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable political landscape in India.

Singh further explained that the bill requires a constitutional amendment, modifying articles 239AA, 330A, 332A, and 334A to incorporate reservations for women. The reservation is subject to periodic review and is initially set for 15 years, establishing a legal framework for assessing its effectiveness over time and allowing flexibility for future amendments based on social and political outcomes.

However, implementing the reservation may encounter legal challenges, particularly concerning the delimitation of constituencies to effectively integrate reservations. The proposed delay in enforcement, tied to the next delimitation after a census, could prompt legal debates on the timing and procedural complexities of the bills execution. Additionally, the bill may face judicial scrutiny for its constitutionality and alignment with principles of equality, necessitating the court to address any legal petitions challenging the bills provisions or its implementation.

By reserving one-third of seats for women, the bill aims to enhance female representation in legislative bodies, potentially leading to more gender-sensitive legislation and policies addressing womens health, education, and safety more effectively. Greater participation of women in politics can inspire more women to engage in public life and aspire to leadership roles, promoting gender equality and empowerment, Singh added.

However, she cautioned against the risk of tokenism, where women might be chosen merely to meet the quota without being given significant roles or responsibilities. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that women in reserved seats are actively involved in decision-making processes to ensure the bill has a meaningful impact.
Adnan Ali, TwoCircles.net

Mandla (Madhya Pradesh): In a controversial move, the Mandla district administration in Madhya Pradesh demolished the homes of 11 Muslim residents of Bhainswal village on June 15 following the recovery of meat, suspected to be beef, from their refrigerators. All the homes are owned by members of the Qureshi community. The demolition has left at least 50 members of the 11 families homeless.

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The Superintendent of Police, Rajat Saklecha, claimed the local veterinarian confirmed the seized meat as beef. However, samples have been sent for further testing to Hyderabad.

While the families maintain their innocence, authorities justified the demolition  stating the houses were built on government land.

However, a stark contrast is evident between 11 demolished homes and 16 untouched ones. Authorities razed the homes during an operation aimed at tackling alleged cattle smuggling, citing discovery of animal hides in sacks and bones in pickup trucks in addition to alleged beef in refrigerators.

While officials assert that the 11 structures were constructed on government land, they acknowledge that 16 other homes in the same neighborhood, also deemed illegal, remain standing where no beef was found.

When asked why 16 homes adjacent to the demolished ones were spared, Mandla Collector Saloni Sidana explained, We refrained from demolishing the other homes due to constraints  it was Eid and out of sensitivity, we decided to leave them untouched for now. We plan to take action against all illegal structures in this village soon. Similar operations are ongoing across the district, where we have demolished 32 structures in the last month.

The police raids were prompted by a recent incident in Dithori village, on the outskirts of Mandla, where a dhaba owner allegedly witnessed a cow being dragged by a rope attached to a white Bolero pickup around 9 am four days earlier.

Local residents intercepted the truck and interrogated its two occupants, Sev Prasad Dhuvre and Salim Qureshi, a resident of Bhainswahi. The police allegedly seized five cows, one of which later died, sparking protests by local organizations.

This incident brought the polices attention to Bhainswahi, which has a documented history of violence associated with cattle smuggling.

Bainswahi village, home to approximately 1,100 residents from tribal and Muslim communities, includes around 80 Muslim households. On July 14, a police operation targeted approximately 27 homes, purportedly built on 15,000 square feet of government land, reducing the settlement to heaps of rubble and debris.

Among the structures demolished were newly constructed brick homes from the past two years, alongside some that had stood for decades.

Shumaila Qureshi (name changed on request) sitting outside her demolished home in the scorching heat said, We have been on the street for two days. Our belongings are scattered, and children are suffering in the heat. We havent eaten anything for the past two days.

Supreme Court advocate Govind Yadav has condemned the action, highlighting violation of fundamental rights. He emphasised Article 20(2) of the Constitution, which protects against double jeopardy. Even if they are guilty, the court will decide the punishment, not the administration by demolishing their homes, he argued. Yadav further stated their intention to challenge this action in the Supreme Court.

One of the affected families claimed they had been residing at the location for the last 50 years and were never informed about the land being government property. They added that they have been paying electricity and water bills regularly.

A first information report (FIR) has been filed, resulting in the arrest of one individual. Following a tip-off regarding illegal cow slaughter, the police are currently attempting to nab 10 additional suspects.

This incident raises significant concerns regarding legal compliance. In February 2024, the Madhya Pradesh High Court ruled against house demolitions in the state, stating the action does not adhere to proper procedures and uphold the principles of natural justice.

Such punitive demolitions follow a consistent pattern nationwide, especially in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Assam, etc.: a protest erupts or a crime takes place in a locality or neighborhood, which escalates into violence. Shortly thereafter, the police announce the identification of specific individuals or groups as the masterminds of the unrest and crime.

Almost immediately, the municipality declares these individuals are residing in unauthorized structures (often accompanied by backdated notices of dubious authenticity). Subsequently, these buildings (homes) are demolished. Typically, the entire sequence  from the police identification of alleged masterminds to the municipalitys declaration of illegality and the actual demolition  takes place within twenty-four hours.

The same happened in several districts in Uttar Pradesh (which is considered as the architect of the bulldozer justice) and at Jahangirpuri in Delhi, Nagaon in Assam, Khambhat in Gujarat and Khargone in Madhya Pradesh.
FRANKFURT (Reuters) -Europe must foster greater political stability, cut red tape and reduce energy price volatility to reverse falling foreign direct investment, EY said after a survey of business leaders.

The more than 500 executives surveyed by the consulting firm ranked political instability, including upcoming elections, populism and polarisation as the second-biggest risk for Europe, trumped only by an increased regulatory burden.

Europe has struggled economically for years on surging prices and the fallout from Russia's war in Ukraine, fuelling populist sentiment that has lifted the far right in European Parliamentary elections and prompted French President Emmanuel Macron to call a snap national election.

Polls show the eurosceptic, anti-immigration National Rally (RN) ahead before the two-round French vote ending July 7, casting a pall over the economic direction of a country that last year topped EY's FDI rankings in Europe.

"There are certain investments that may be at stake," Marc Lhermitte, a partner at EY Consulting, told Reuters.

"International investors are looking at (the election) very carefully. A lot of them are starting to raise their voice, publicly or in back channels," he said, warning it could be months before it was clear what policy path France was treading.

After Britain's departure from the European Union and with Germany's ruling coalition constantly at odds with each other, the French election adds to the big challenges facing Europe.

It has rattled financial markets in recent days, pushing up French borrowing costs on fears that a populist government would strain France's already limited financial resources and hold up broader efforts to make the eurozone economy more dynamic.

Stagnant growth, big swings in energy costs and political uncertainty have all damaged the bloc's competitiveness, particularly when compared to a booming U.S., leaving the world's two biggest economic blocs on a diverging course.

Lhermitte said last year saw 15% fewer investments by U.S. companies in Europe, a sign the incentives in President Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) were persuading many American businesses to invest domestically.

"As geopolitical and global trade tensions intensify, European policymakers need to be equipped to respond rapidly and decisively," EY said in its commentary on the survey.

"Individual Member States must be aligned on key areas, including which industries need to be protected and where the threats lie."

Story continues

Energy price volatility could be reduced by investing in better connected infrastructure and fostering a green transition given that Europe was overly reliant on Russia for decades.

But bureaucracy is the biggest threat, the executives said.

"European policymakers can alleviate these concerns by harmonizing regulation, reconsidering the pace of introducing new regulation and repealing outdated laws whenever possible," EY said.

(Reporting by Balazs Koranyi and Mark John; Editing by Sharon Singleton and Alexander Smith)
By David Ljunggren

OTTAWA (Reuters) - Russia's new defensive pact with North Korea shows increasing alignment among authoritarian powers and underscores the importance of democracies presenting a united front, the head of NATO said on Wednesday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a deal with North Korea's Kim Jong Un that included a mutual defense pledge, a move that overhauls Moscow's policy towards Pyongyang.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said North Korea had provided "an enormous amount of ammunition" to Russia while both China and Iran were supporting Moscow militarily in its war against Ukraine.

"We need to be aware that authoritarian powers are aligning more and more. They are supporting each other in a way we haven't seen before," he told a panel discussion during an official visit to Ottawa.

"When they are more and more aligned - authoritarian regimes like North Korea and China, Iran, Russia - then it's even more important that we are aligned as countries believing in freedom and democracy," he said.

The growing closeness between Russia and other Asian nations means it is all the more important that NATO works with allies in the Asia-Pacific, he said, adding this was why leaders from Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea had been invited to a NATO summit in Washington next month.

Stoltenberg also said he expected Canada to meet the NATO target of spending 2% of gross domestic product on defense.

Canada's Liberal government, which has poured billions into social programs, only spends 1.37% of GDP on its military. In April it issued a plan to reach 1.76% by 2030.

Other NATO members "are concerned about the fiscal balance, they want to spend money on health (and) education" he said, adding that "if we're not able to preserve peace, then what we do on health and climate change and education ... will fail".

(Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
An Emancipation Park sign, Tuesday, June 8, 2021, in Third Ward, Houston. After Houston Community College participated in the 149th Juneteenth Celebration Benefiting the Emancipation Park Conservancy. Karen Warren / Staff photographer

A feasibility study for what may become the second National Historic Trail honoring African American history is progressing despite pandemic-related delays as national trails officials conduct time-intensive research, digging deep into the trails history.

The Emancipation National Historic Trail Feasibility Study Act, authored by U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Houston, and U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, was signed into law by former President Donald Trump in 2020. The federal study will help determine whether a 51-mile trail between Galveston and Houston will be given National Historic Trail status.

Texas is among the U.S. states with the fewest National Historic Trails, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

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The National Park Service's National Trails Office has been actively studying the eligibility of the possible trail. The agency is working on collecting and analyzing data following the global pandemic, which caused delays in the process.

The research is extensive  involving written and oral histories, demographic records, cemetery records and more, which takes a lot of time to collect, according to Jill Jensen, lead planner for the National Trails Office.

"COVID slowed us all down, especially for a project like this, where we really want to make sure that we're engaging local stakeholders face to face as much as possible," she said.

The trail begins at the Osterman Building and Reedy Chapel in Galveston along Texas 3 and Interstate 45 North, and it continues to the community of Freedmen's Town in Houston's Fourth Ward and then to Independence Heights and Emancipation Park in Houston, according to a 2020 news release. The trail follows the migration route of formerly enslaved people who were emancipated and people of African descent from Galveston, which was a major seaport town in the 19th century, to Freedmen's Town.

TEXAS HISTORY: Juneteenth was just the beginning of freedom for Black Texans

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"The reason this trail is needed, number one, it is the only national initiative that we have at present to tell the story about Juneteenth and its people," said Naomi Mitchell Carrier with the Texas Center for African-American Living History. "We're talking emancipation here. ... The legislation is national, but the stories are international."

Jensen said the office is studying whether the historic trail meets the criteria to become a National Historic Trail. The criteria the study must address include the story behind the people traveling along the route for a specific purpose, what makes it nationally significant, and historic resources related to the travel.

Participation in the project is voluntary for any landowner who wants to help promote and use the trail for education purposes, she said.

The time frame to complete the National Historic Trail study in order for Congress to vote on whether to move forward with the project has yet to be determined. Jensen said the office has seen some other studies' processes take two to 15 years.

If the route meets the eligibility criteria or legislation is passed amending the National Trail System Act to include the route and the National Trails Office is assigned to the project, Jensen said, the office would create a comprehensive plan. It would meet with people who live and work along the trail in order to talk to stakeholders, build partnerships and gather ideas for the promotion and development of the trail, according to the National Trails Office website.

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The plan will also be developed with partners such as state and local government agencies, landowners, federally recognized American Native/Indigenous tribes, area residents, trail user organizations and the public, according to the website.

When a National Historic Trail has been confirmed for designation, it will have no effect on private landowners, according to Jensen.

Jensen also found that some people were curious about the choice of location for the possible trail because Texas is a large state.

GALVESTON BLACK HISTORY: The birthplace of Juneteenth, has been losing Black residents for decades

Carrier, who has pushed for more education about Texas' history, said research from local African American history professors so far shows that there were people leaving plantations from surrounding areas near Harris County, such as to the south throughout Brazoria, Wharton and Matagorda counties and to the north throughout Washington and Brazos counties.

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"Those people were leaving the plantations in every county surrounding Harris to get to Freedmen's Town, and that was the point of destination for the legislation from Galveston to Houston," she said.

Jensen said the National Historical Trail study will focus on how the route will affect or connect people through a "marriage of archaeology" with history and recreation rather than the feasibility of an area for hiking. Texas has been a part of three National Historic Trails shared with other states: Butterfield Overland, El Camino Real de los Tejas and El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro.
Novo Nordisk says no sign of crime, links between fires at Denmark facilities

COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -There has been no indication so far that three fires that broke out at Novo Nordisk's Danish facilities over the past month were connected or that they were caused by criminal activity, the company said on Wednesday.

A blaze at a building near the company's Bagsvaerd head office northwest of Copenhagen on Tuesday was the third in just over one month at different facilities occupied by the maker of the weight-loss treatment Wegovy and diabetes drug Ozempic.

The fires are taking place as authorities across several European countries including Poland, Germany and the UK have made arrests in connection with acts of sabotage such as arson and attempted arson committed on the orders of Russian services. Moscow denies any links to such incidents.

"When you see a coincidence of three fires against the same company within a short period of time, it's natural that many people think it could be part of this Russian hybrid warfare," said Jacob Kaarsbo, senior analyst at Danish think tank Europa.

"I think the authorities are very aware of this," he added. "There is this tendency to believe that it could be Russia, but whether it is, we'll have to see."

So far, Danish police have not linked the fires to any criminal activity.

"There are no signs of criminal activity at any of the three fires and no signs that they are linked to each other," a Novo Nordisk spokesperson said, adding that police were still investigating all three fires.

The Danish intelligence service (PET) in May said the threat of physical sabotage from Russia had increased, although PET also said then it had not yet encountered any of such concrete actions in Denmark.

The latest fire was quickly brought under control by the fire brigade.

(Reporting by Louise Breusch Rasmussen and Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen, editing by Terje Solsvik and Bernadette Baum)
FILE PHOTO: The NHS London Ambulance Service sign is seen on an ambulance in London

LONDON (Reuters) - Election pledges by Britain's governing Conservatives and the opposition Labour Party do not set out how they plan to meet a 38 billion pound ($48 billion) funding shortfall in the National Health Service (NHS) in England, a report said on Thursday.

The performance of the state-run NHS is a major concern for voters ahead of a national election on July 4, as it has been hobbled by COVID and industrial action, while Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has struggled to bring down long waiting lists.

The next government will need to increase healthcare funding by 4.5% per year in real terms over the next five years to help with COVID recovery, meet rising needs and improve services, analysis by the Health Foundation think tank said.

That means an extra 46 billion pounds of funding is needed by 2029/30, but current planned increases in public spending would only deliver an 8 billion pound increase in the health budget, and neither leading party has clear plans to substantially close that gap.

"The health service is in crisis and all the main political parties have said they want to fix it  yet the funding they have so far promised falls well short of the level needed to make improvements," said Anita Charlesworth, Director of the Health Foundation's REAL Centre.

While Labour and the Conservatives have proposed extra funding for a handful of specific health policies, neither have outlined general increases for baseline NHS spending.

The winning party is set to hold a spending review, which could allocate more funding to the NHS at the expense of other departments.

However, without such allocations, both Labour and Conservative plans for healthcare funding would leave the NHS with tighter budgets than under the austerity policies pursued by the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition ten years ago.

"An incoming government therefore will face incredibly difficult choices. Either increased taxes to provide more funding, reduce spending on other public services, or see the NHS do less," Charlesworth said.

"The risk ... if you cut other public services to protect the NHS, is that over the longer term, you actually make the health of the population worse, and the challenge facing the NHS even greater."

Labour says it will deliver growth, helping it plug gaps in public finances without raising personal taxes. Charlesworth said the Health Foundation had not modelled different growth.

"If the economy grew more strongly, this problem would be much smaller," she said.

($1 = 0.7857 pounds)

(Reporting by Alistair Smout; Editing by Mark Potter)
The briefing room at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia

TAIPEI (Reuters) - The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of drones and missiles for an estimated $360 million, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

The United States is bound by law to provide Chinese-claimed Taiwan with the means to defend itself despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, to the constant anger of Beijing.

China has been stepping up military pressure against Taiwan, including staging war games around the island last month after the inauguration of Lai Ching-te as president.

The sale "will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region", the Pentagon agency said in separate statements on Tuesday in the United States.

The sale includes Switchblade 300 anti-personnel and anti-armour loitering munitions and related equipment for an estimated cost of $60.2 million, and ALTIUS 600M-V drones and related equipment for an estimated cost of $300 million, the agency added. Loitering munitions are small guided missiles that can fly around a target area until they are directed to attack.

Taiwan's defence ministry expressed its thanks, especially for U.S. efforts to increase arms sales to the island. Taiwan has repeatedly complained of delayed deliveries.

"In the face of the Chinese communists' frequent military operations around Taiwan, these US-agreed-to arms sales items will have the ability to detect and strike in real time, and can respond quickly to enemy threats," it said in a statement.

Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait require goodwill from China, the ministry added.

"It is hoped that the People's Liberation Army will stop its oppressive military operations around Taiwan and jointly contribute to regional stability."

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Christopher Cushing and Gerry Doyle)
Way forward to keep the gains of 2024 poll results

After the humiliation of the 2024 results, like a wounded beast, Modi is quite likely to turn even more of a man-eater than he already was. So what's the way forward?

Wednesday June 19, 2024 2:15 PM , Satya Sagar

As the trends of the recent Indian elections became clear, the Chinese Rover that recently landed on the far side of the Moon picked up a strange sound from Planet Earth. It was the collective sigh of relief of millions around the world at the comeuppance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The devastating verdict delivered by the Indian voters left the ruling party without a majority in the Parliament and dependent on patently untrustworthy allies to remain in power.

Sure, that bit about the Chinese Moon lander was unverified BS on my part. Who can deny though, it has been a joyful sight to behold  Modi, after a decade of strutting around like a powerful Emperor, fumbling for words, wobbly in his stride and smiling at his own shadow in embarrassment.

For all the joy and celebration, two weeks down the line, there is a need for a very sober interpretation of what the election results really point to. And a brutally honest analysis to imbibe the right lessons and move on to the next round of the battle to save the Indian Republic.

Do these results signal a downward spiral for Modi and Hindutva or are they a temporary setback? Is what we are facing in our times a completely new phenomenon or part of something deeper from Indian history?

Why is a significant section of Indians still in thrall to a patently dishonest, elitist and dangerously incompetent government and its divisive ideology? What do the results really mean for the Indian democracy and welfare of common citizens?

These are very diverse questions and no, I dont have answers to all of them. However, as a good Indian who does not let ignorance come in the way of eloquence, I will attempt some responses anyway.

Modi is nicked but not fully licked

While Modi and his band of bandicoots have certainly been much weakened by the Indian voters, they are not yet out. They have survived to fight dirty another day and any complacency at this stage by those trying to save the Indian democracy could end up very badly.

Instead, the only way forward to keep the gains of the 2024 results is to deepen democracy, by launching a million mutinies against the Indian elite and its most trusted servants  the Modi-Shah combine. For, no one should forget that Modis continuation as PM of India for a third term is a matter of deep shame and also a great danger to the entire country.

Modi and his sidekick Amit Shah are creatures who would not hesitate to shoot their own grandmothers if they came in between them and looting the Republic. After the humiliation of the 2024 results, like a wounded beast, Modi is quite likely to turn even more of a man-eater than he already was. While his paws appeared to be currently glued by compulsion, they are in fact curled up in rage, ready to strike at first chance.

Modi clones are there in every walk of Indian life

We cannot forget that Modi can hang on to power because he still has too many admirers in the country  in particular among the upper caste Hindu and corporate elites  who see him as the best protector of all their vested interests. And they constitute the most powerful lobby in the country, with endless money, muscle, and media power at their command.

Even worse, there are also many wannabe Modis in all walks of Indian life  cunning, cowardly, unscrupulous, power-hungry and predisposed  to becoming dictators. Unfortunately, a fair bit of this is true of many who are in the countrys opposition space too  who are clones ensuring the longevity of the original monster. While taking a tactical approach towards the incumbent regime, one cannot turn a blind eye completely to the opportunism or shallowness of many of its political opponents.

Modi, in that sense, represents a trend in Indian society that has always been there for centuries and has got a new lease of life in modern times. We have to reflect on how the worst in Indian society have been allowed to occupy the highest positions in every sector of the country.

The future belongs to direct action by Indian citizens

Yes, full marks to Rahul Gandhi and his two Bharat Jodo Yatras. The combination of fearless criticism of the regime and direct outreach by Rahul helped give confidence to many Indians to come out and express their disgust at Modi through the ballot box.

Even more significant is Rahuls insistence on basic principles  whether it be focusing on the fundamental needs of the poorest citizens, his clarity on the issue of caste and raising the standards of national discourse to a much higher level than has been evident in the last decade.

However, one must not forget that the credit for the transformation of the Indian polity goes also to the thousands of Indians who have bravely resisted the Modi regime on a daily basis on a variety of issues from civil and political rights to livelihood and social welfare.

A few years ago, when the opposition parties appeared paralyzed, it was protests by farmers against the new farm laws and Muslims against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) that launched the Indian Spring against the Modi regime. Both protests were dealt with brutally, ending in the deaths of many protesters and arrests of many more. By then though, they had done the trick of showing that not Modi but the entire state machinery at his command was biological  made of the same material as the rest of us and hence eminently challengeable.

The point here is that, while the formal Indian opposition and the INDIA Alliance should be fully supported wherever possible, it would be naive to believe that on their own they are enough to take on the might of the Hindutva movement. The fact is that the fate of Indian democracy, the Constitution and the entire Republic are dependent on decentralized action on various issues by a variety of smaller and even non-political formations.

Whether it be unemployment, corruption, health, education, environment, gender or class and caste issues, the future belongs to public action by the public itself without waiting for any political party to take the lead. All this may sound utopian but if one sees the spectacular rise of citizen-led journalism in recent years and how that shaped the recent election, there is much reason to believe that this can be replicated in many other walks of Indian life too.

India is going through a civilizational battle and not just a political one

Finally, diving deeper into Indian history, one finds that whatever is happening in contemporary times has many echoes in the ancient past too.

India is a nation that has been shaped by a multitude of civilizations, each contributing to the rich tapestry of its cultural heritage. From the ancient aboriginal and Adivasi peoples to the sophisticated Indus Valley civilization, the Vedic, Buddhist and Jain cultures, the Islamic empires, and the influence of European colonialism, India has been a melting pot of diverse traditions, values, and ways of life.

However, as in the past, in modern times too there is a concerted effort to project only Vedic civilization as being truly Indian, while dismissing the contributions of all others. This is nothing but part of a millennia-old attempt to grab material resources and power by asserting the religious and cultural practices of a tiny minority of Indians as the gold standard for everyone else to follow  with those resisting being punished in myriad ways, often violent.

This narrow view of Indian identity not only undermines the countrys pluralistic nature but also threatens to impose regressive values from texts like the Manusmriti, which go against the principles of equality and progress.

Unfortunately, this is not just the stance of the Hindutva movement and its political front but also the entire mainstream political class in India. Except for the parties that emerged from Periyars Dravidian movement, all mainstream political parties inherently believe that modern India is nothing but an extension of the mythical Aryavarta from Vedic times.

For India to remain united and achieve its full potential as a great nation, it is essential to recognize and celebrate the values and achievements of all its civilizations, placing them on an equal pedestal. The urbane and cosmopolitan spirit of the Indus Valley civilization, the ecological wisdom of the Adivasi peoples, the ethos of rationalism and compassion of the Buddhists and Jains, the cultural dynamism of Islamic civilization, and the progressive ideals of the European Enlightenment are all essential components of Indias identity and should be celebrated, nurtured and indeed asserted.

This is the larger framework, based on an unblinkered reading of Indian history, that needs to guide the nationwide resistance to majoritarianism and dictatorship. And this is what the defense of the Indian Constitution is really all about  the struggle for dignity, equality and respect of the Indian people against the freeloading elites who have through sheer cunning or brute force have managed to hang on to power throughout history.

The future of India will be decided by who wins this grand clash to decide if one civilization will continue to have a monopoly over everything in this ancient land or if a rainbow coalition will emerge to protect both Indian diversity and democracy.

[The writer, Satya Sagar, is a journalist and public health worker. He can be reached at sagarnama@gmail.com. The views are personal.]

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Dear Interested Parties,

Vietnam Improving Private Sector Competitiveness Project (IPS-C) intends to award a subcontract to conduct Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) service market research and go-to-market strategy for the US market to IDEA TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION JSC.

Background

Improving Private Sector Competitiveness (IPSC) is a U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) technical assistance project, and the Agency for Enterprise Development (AED) under the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) is the project owner. The project is implemented by Deloitte Consulting LLP (Deloitte) and runs from 2020 to 2025.

The purpose of the USAID IPSC activity is to remove constraints and build the competitiveness of small and growing businesses (SGBs) in Viet Nam, including those led by vulnerable populations. With this activity, USAID/Vietnam is supporting Viet Nams competitiveness vertically at the policy, market and firm level and horizontally by working along the entire spectrum of enterprise growth models, from household businesses transforming into registered firms to small firms on the cusp of scaling up.

Summary of Activities

IPSC collaborates closely with the Government of Viet Nam (GVN) counterparts, including the project owner, AED, under MPI. IPSC and AED develop strategies for sector selection, geographic focus and SGB engagement and engage a broad range of market actors across the economy that make up the SGB ecosystem, including SGBs, cooperatives and household businesses (HBs); business chambers, associations and business development service providers (BDSPs); GVN Ministries and Agencies, provincial and local administrations; and private sector consultants, training institutions and financial institutions. Using incentives and cost-sharing with SGBs, pioneering enterprises (PEs) and other partners, IPSC builds both greater demand and supply of business development services (BDS), while improving providers capacity to understand and offer services desired in the marketplace.

One of IPSCs main objectives is supporting Vietnamese enterprises to receive customised technical assistance under the overall support package 'Pioneering Enterprise (PE) Program' to create products with added value and Vietnamese intellectual property, nurturing them to become sustainable models for other SGBs to emulate and scale up proven examples. A PE is a growing Vietnamese enterprise with Vietnamese-branded products, sufficient competitiveness, the ability to lead and expand in the industry, sector and locality, strong management capacity and willingness to innovate and make products with high added value, with the vision and objective to build a Vietnamese brand in international markets. Positioning the 'Made by Vietnam' product brand successfully in regional and international markets is a priority for PEs.

Each support package will be customised for the individual PE, depending on their situation, needs, development capacity, commitment to participate and willingness to co-invest. The support packages will focus on facilitating BDSPs and technical experts to deliver consulting services and specialised training to help enterprises strengthen their governance, management capability and strategies (including strategy development, business model refinement, brand positioning, marketing, innovation, communications and human resource development). IPSC will develop Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for each supporting package so PEs can quantify the results achieved and evaluate the effectiveness of the results.

IDEA TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION JSC (IDEA) is a 100 per cent Vietnamese-owned company specialising in machine design support, machining, assembly and automation for the Japanese and American markets, as well as for companies with FDI investment in the Vietnamese market. With a large team of design engineers and over 13 years of formation and development, the company now has over 225 Japanese and American customers, aiming to become a leading technology and technical service corporation in Viet Nam. IDEA's products and services encompass all stages in the value chain of machine automation support, including machine design support, precision mechanical machining, manufacturing and assembly of various types of automation machines, production of AGV-AMR self-driving vehicles and robotic arms.

The offeror will assist IDEA in exploring the US market for their machine design and autonomation services (OEM/ ODM/CAD design services terminologies are used interchangeably in this document). The scope of work is conducting the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) service market research and go-to-market strategy for the US market.

Eligibility Requirements

Qualified legally registered Vietnamese companies or organisations must meet the following criteria to be eligible:

 Extensive experience working with companies in the OEM/machine design services-related industry and a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that these companies face.

 Over five years of experience in conducting market research, both in qualitative and quantitative methods, customer segmentation research for B2B businesses and value chain with international partners.

 A proven track record of success in delivering similar projects in three recent years. References and examples of past work are required.

 Strong project management and marketing advisory capabilities to ensure that the market research and go-to-market strategy development process progresses smoothly with various stakeholders from IDEA within the specified timeframe.

 Cultural awareness and understanding of the local business environment in Viet Nam.

Interested vendors should provide an Intent to Bid, expressing the intent of the vendor to submit a proposal for this requirement, by 9pm Ha Noi time on June 28, 2024, to Mir Waez at mwaez@deloitte.com and Tuan Tran Anh at tuantran@ipsc.vn.

IPS-C intends to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to interested vendors by July 2, 2024.
The Luxury Awards 2024 ceremony, held in Bangkok, is an annual event that honours premium hotels and resorts across the Asia-Pacific region.

This esteemed and credible award spans 20 categories and 15 countries and territories, with 200,000 votes from Travel + Leisure readers. During the awards night, Travel + Leisure announced six award categories for the most luxurious and distinctive accommodations in Viet Nam.

Capella Hanoi - The best city hotel in Viet Nam

Ranked number one in the list of the very best city hotels in Viet Nam, Capella Hanoi was launched in 2020 by investor Sun Group.

The magazine described the hotel as an artistic palace designed by the US design wizard - Bill Bensley - who was inspired by the Ha Noi Opera House, a tourism symbol of the city.

The hotel boasts a collection of art pieces and thousands of pieces of opera memorabilia collected from across the world. These items are elegantly displayed in glass cases in the Backstage restaurant on the ground floor and along the corridors connecting the 47 rooms.

One key feature that secured Capella Hanois top position is its Michelin-starred restaurant, Hibana by Koki, a Japanese restaurant serving the top culinary art of teppanyaki. The hotel also offers a stunning fitness centre and an indoor pool, adorned with intricate chandeliers.

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort - The best beach resort in Viet Nam

Travel + Leisure gives high praise to this resort, which opened in 2012 and is also the 'brainchild' of architect Bill Bensley, who personally designed and supervised its renovation after ten years in 2022.

The InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort features 200 rooms, three pools and a private beach, amid the stunning nature of the Son Tra Peninsula.

Visitors should not miss out on nature tours and a chance to meet the brown-shanked douc langur, an endangered wild animal, in its natural habitat. For rest and rejuvenation, Mi Sol Spa offers wellness treatments accompanied by soothing sounds.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa wins twice in the awards

The Phu Quoc resort by Sun Group is ranked fourth among the best island beach resorts in Viet Nam and was the runner-up for the best hotel pool in Viet Nam.

The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort is a luxurious resort on Phu Quocs Pearl Island. It is situated along the creamy white sands and clear turquoise waters of Bai Kem paradise beach.

The resort, designed by Bill Bensley, is in the style of a 19th-century fictional French university, with rooms featuring private balconies and elite villas, all with private swimming pools.

Indulge your senses with a chain of luxurious restaurants and bars, relax by the shell-shaped pool, rejuvenate with massages at the spa or simply unwind on the private white sandy beach of the resort.

Hotel de la Coupole - MGallery, Sa Pa is one of the top two best suburban hotels

Hotel de la Coupole ranked second among the ten best suburban hotels in Viet Nam. The hotel is known as a precious gem, offering luxurious, high-class design in the heart of the beautiful mountainous town of Sa Pa.

The hotels design will take visitors back to the 1930s Indochina era, drawing inspiration from the vast terraced fields and vibrant local ethnic culture of the highlands of Sa Pa.

Rooms with private balconies offer panoramic views of lush valleys. The stunning restaurants and pool at the only international five-star hotel in Sa Pa, promise to provide a romantic, perfect vacation in the picturesque and culturally rich landscape of the northwestern mountainous region of Viet Nam.

Constantly garnering prestigious awards, these achievements demonstrate the high class, quality and uniqueness of Sun Groups collection of resorts, affirming the groups efforts to stamp Viet Nams presence on the global luxury travel map.

This dedication also helped Sun Hospitality Group to be honoured as Asia's Leading Resort Tourism Developer by the World Travel Awards.
HCM CITY  Tuna exports are projected to reach US$456.8 million in the first half of the year, a year-on-year increase of 20 per cent, according to the Viet Nam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers.

After decreasing in 2023, exports rose by 22 per cent in the first five months of the year to US$388 million.

Shipments of canned tuna products, bagged tuna and frozen loin/fillet increased by 44 per cent, 24 per cent, and 7 per cent.

Exports of frozen whole tuna nearly tripled.

Exports to most markets increased, with those to the US and EU, the two largest, rising by 30 per cent and 37 per cent and accounting for 37 per cent and 22 per cent of total exports.

Exports to Israel, Russia and South Korea rose by 64 per cent, 58 per cent and 66 per cent.

Speaking at the associations annual general conference in HCM City on June 10, Cao Thi Kim Lan, director of the Binh inh Fisheries Joint Stock Company, said in 2023 Viet Nam became the worlds fifth largest exporter of tuna behind Thailand, Ecuador, Spain, and China, rising from eighth place 10 years ago.

She said a notable milestone was achieved in 2022 when exports of the fish topped $1 billion.

She spoke about the potential of the tuna industry.

We have hi-tech tuna processing factories, experienced and skilled labourers and reputable products that are exported to nearly 100 markets.

With more than 30 years of experience, I believe the Vietnamese tuna industry can grow further if we make efforts to overcome internal challenges and resolve difficulties faced by the industry with support from the Government.

She said exports could reach $1 billion again this year if the raw material shortages are resolved.

She pointed out more than 50 per cent of exports are processed from imported tuna.

Firms have difficulty obtaining statements of catch for raw material at fishing ports (the statement issued by competent authorities to verify raw materials from fishing that do not violate IUU regulations) after finalising the purchase of raw materials, according to Lan.

She listed a number of reasons why they were unable to get the statements, including issues related to safety conditions and catching in illegal waters.

Another issue is that a number of fishing vessels have installed the VNPT electronic monitoring system but regularly encounter technical errors, causing a disconnection between the vessels and the system monitoring fishing activities for six hours or more, even two to three days.

Buyers could not know these issues when they purchase the fish, she said.

She said localities and other competent agencies needed to implement well checking hygiene and food safety conditions of fishing vessels and fishing ports in line with Government regulations.

She said the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development should consider amending regulations so that the certificates of raw materials could be issued immediately when loading and unloading are completed from fishing vessels under the supervision of port staff.

"In cases where fishing vessels lose connection due to telecom service providers fault, the ministry needs to provide guidance on issuing the certificates to businesses," she said.

She said the ministry needed to establish a digital input data system connecting fishing ports and the Government. This is basic information for the Government and ministries to issue appropriate directions and policies.  VNS
HA NOI  Shares rallied on Tuesday as the recovery of large-cap stocks helped the VN-Index regain 4.73 points after two sessions of falls, while manufacturing industry stocks rose sharply.

On the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), the VN-Index rose 4.73 points or 0.37 per cent to close the trading session at 1,279.5 points.

The VN-Index remained above the reference level for most of the day, trading within a stable range and closing the session higher.

The market's breadth was also positive as the number of gainers surpassed that of losers by 214 to 107. Liquidity on the southern bourse still remained high at VN22.5 trillion (US$887 million), equivalent to a trading volume of 805 million shares.

The 30 biggest stocks tracker, the VN30-Index, climbed slightly, up 0.19 points or 0.01 per cent, to 1,309.89. Fourteen ticker symbols in the VN30 basket edged up, while eight inched down and eight stocks ended flat.

Data compiled by the financial website vietstock.vn showed that uc Giang Chemicals Group JSC (DGC) was the biggest gainer on the market and led in terms of capitalisation. Shares of the chemical manufacturer hit a ceiling on Tuesday, rising seven per cent, contributing more than 0.8 points to the VN-Index gain.

It was followed by Vietnam Airlines JSC (HVN), whose shares also increased strongly on Tuesday, up 3.5 per cent, contributing more than 0.6 points to the VN-Index.

Oil and gas stocks also performed well on Tuesday. Notably, PetroVietnam Power Corporation (POW) hit the ceiling, up 6.81 per cent. It was followed by Viet Nam National Petroleum Group (PLX), whose shares up 2.76 per cent and PetroVietnam Gas Joint Stock Corporation (GAS) with an increase of 0.52 per cent.

Limiting the rallies, some banking stocks still faced strong sell-offs, such as Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Industry and Trade (CTG) which posted a decline of 1.22 per cent, Vietnam Prosperity Joint Stock Commercial Bank (VPB) down 0.8 per cent and Vietnam Maritime Commercial Join Stock Bank (MSB) which lost 1.35 per cent.

On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX), the index also finished higher on Tuesday. It rose 0.52 per cent, to 244.43 points.

During the session, more than VN1.2 trillion worth of shares were traded, equivalent to a trading volume of nearly 55 million shares on the northern market.

Foreign investors extended their net selling spree as they net sold over VN655 billion on the HoSE. This bloc has been net selling for nine consecutive sessions on the northern bourse.  VNS
Fortune Names PAN Group Among Southeast Asia's Top 500 Largest Companies

On June 18, Fortune Magazine unveiled the 2024 Fortune Southeast Asia 500 list, marking the inaugural ranking of the 500 largest companies in Southeast Asia, based on revenues for the fiscal year 2023. This prestigious list includes leading corporations from seven countries in the region: Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines and Cambodia.

After undergoing rigorous evaluations by Fortune, PAN Group has been recognised as one of the 70 Vietnamese enterprises featured in this prestigious ranking.

Fortune highlighted that in 2023, PAN Group achieved a net revenue of US$ 554 million, equivalent to VND 13,205 billion. With a strategic focus on high-end segments and an advantage in deeply processed products, the substantial profit margins enabled PAN Group to surpass its profit targets for 2023. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the numerous economic headwinds that Vietnam faced during the year.

In Vietnam, PAN Group is known as a leading enterprise in the agriculture and food sectors. Its key products, including rice, shrimp, fish, cashews, coffee and agricultural chemicals, are widely distributed across all 63 provinces and cities in Vietnam, with over 200,000 points of sale. Additionally, these products are exported to more than 40 countries, with key markets including Japan, Europe and the United States.

Reflecting on the period from 2019 to 2023, PAN Group has shown steady and consistent growth, with revenue increasing from VND 7,812 billion in 2019 to VND 13,204 billion in 2023, a 1.7-fold increase. Similarly, PAN's net profit has also grown significantly, reaching VND 817 billion in 2023, nearly double that of 2019. The company achieved an average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16 per cent a year.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Tra My, CEO of PAN Group, said: PAN Group has member companies with extensive experience in the agriculture and food industries. The opportunities ahead are significant, as the group has developed sustainably and built a strong reputation over the past decade. The accumulation of expertise and resources over many years now presents numerous opportunities for growth.

Chief Operating Officer of Fortune Asia, Khoon-Fong Ang, said: With this list, we particularly focus on the impressive growth story of Southeast Asia and the largest companies driving the region's diverse economic development.

In addition to revenue and profit figures, PAN Group's inclusion in Fortunes list is also notable for its sustainable development projects, such as 'Transforming the Rice Value Chain to Respond to Climate Change and Promote Sustainable Development in the Mekong Delta' and 'Enhancing Rice Farmers' Incomes' tied to the national project '1 Million Hectares of High-Quality, Low-Emission Rice for Green Growth in the Mekong Delta by 2030.'

The company also stated that sustainable development is always a long-term strategic priority, inseparable from its key objectives: economic, environmental and social goals. PAN Group is consistently ranked among the best-listed companies in Vietnam.

This commitment to sustainability has enabled PAN to access green and preferential funding sources both domestically and internationally. A notable example is the agreement with Standard Chartered Vietnam, signed during COP28 in Dubai.

Sustainable development is a critical strategic action for ensuring the resilience and optimal risk management of our business, said the CEO of PAN Group.

The Fourtunes data indicates that out of the top 500 companies in Southeast Asia, only around 30 of them, or 6%, have female Presidents or CEOs. The fact that 5 of those 30 female leaders are from Viet Nam. This suggests that while there has been some progress, women are still significantly underrepresented in the highest levels of corporate leadership in the region.

The report highlights that the female leaders identified have demonstrated strong performance in areas like corporate governance, profitability, and community/social impact.

The Fortune representative's comments suggest that the rankings of the top 500 companies in Southeast Asia reflect a region that is highly dynamic and flexible, with economies that are growing more impressively than Europe or North America.

The fact that many Global 500 companies have relocated or expanded their supply chains to Southeast Asia. ./.
A new round of heavy flooding threatens to kill off Galveston Bays remaining oysters, further harming a population that was decimated by freshwater inflows in May and early June that cost fishers millions of dollars in lost revenue.

The floor of the Houston-area estuary is crowded with shoreline-protecting public reefs and privately held oyster leases, each filled with the palm-sized mollusks that act as natural water filters while feeding a multimillion-dollar industry. But the otherwise hearty shellfish are particular about their salinity levels.

Theyre kind of like Goldilocks, they dont like it too fresh, they dont like it too salty, said Christine Jensen, an ecosystem leader for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Current salt levels in the bay are on par with what we saw during Harvey, she said of the 2017 hurricane that caused mass oyster mortality.

Oysters can withstand short-term salinity shifts by shutting themselves into their shells, but this season is testing their limits. Floods that began in late April pushed huge quantities of water down the Trinity and San Jacinto rivers, flushing freshwater into Galveston Bay and forcing out the ocean salt  a problem that further floods are expected to exacerbate.

A dead oyster sits on top of a sample pulled from the water by Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, left, and Refugio Cendejas, pull oysters from the water as they check on samples dredged from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Woody checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Refugio Cendejas shucks an oyster while checking on samples dredged from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Cendejas and Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, tastes an oyster dredged from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Woody checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, left, and Refugio Cendejas, pull oysters from the water as they check on samples dredged from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Woody checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, checks on samples of oysters dredged from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Woody checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

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This extended period of low salinity has caused significant mortality on public reefs and private leases within the Galveston Bay complex resulting in an estimated loss of revenue totaling over $15,400,000, Galveston County Judge Mark Henry said in a disaster declaration he issued June 5.

The statement came as several fishers testified in County Court. Raz Halili, vice president of Prestige Oysters, estimated his company had lost 13 million market-sized oysters worth about $5 million as a result of the floods.

Longtime oyster fisher Justin Woodys shallower leases were already 100% dead, and he worried another week of heavy flooding would be the nail in the coffin for survivors on his reefs that sat farther offshore.

The influx of freshwater has damaged the population of harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay, which will affect the fishery for at least the next couple of years. Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle

Assessing the damage to oyster reefs

Oysters can live in low salinity for a couple of weeks, but were going on seven weeks now. They cannot survive that, Woody said. Any that do are unable to spawn while in survival mode, missing the main season for reproduction in May and June. Even if they did release oyster larvae, he said, it takes 18 months to two years to grow an oyster to harvestable size.

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Freshwater floods also created bacteria concerns for the bay, triggering a ban on oyster fishing by the Department of State Health Services that has stretched over a month and a half. For now, Woody said that Jeris Oysters, his fourth-generation family business, is buying 100% of its oysters from fishers in Louisiana. They had to apply for a special permit even to survey damages.

Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, checks on samples of oysters dredged from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Woody checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

Woodys father, Tracy, pulled samples from the companys private reefs last week with a netted metal rake, counting the smelly open shells of recently dead oysters. He said the sampling was an emotional roller coaster, since private lease holders invest in their reefs and oysters like a farmer tending the land. He was relieved his deeper leases farther from river mouths still had low mortality rates, but said the crop was stressed and in danger if the weeks rain fell as heavily as predicted.

As the region began to flood again, angling most of its runoff to Galveston Bay, fishers were left holding their breath.

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Refugio Cendejas pulls oysters from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Cendejas and Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

Another blow for a struggling fishery

You cant do anything to stop the freshwater inflows. So youre just kind of waiting and monitoring and seeing when conditions will return, said Sally Clark, the Galveston Bay Foundations Habitat Restoration Manager. Clark said the flooding added insult to injury for an oyster population that recently recovered from high salt levels over two summers of severe drought.

As climate change has brought stronger storms and longer droughts to the region, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has kept an increasing number of the bays harvest areas closed during the public season, which spans from Nov. 1 to April 30. State officials bar fishing on reefs with undersized oysters or scarce populations.

Tracy Woody, owner of Jeris Seafood, looks at a handful of dead oysters dredged from the water on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Galveston Bay. Woody checked on oyster reefs to determine the mortality rate of the mollusk beds in light of recent heavy rains. The influx of freshwater from recent heavy rains and flooding has killed off a large portion of the harvestable oysters in Galveston Bay. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

This past season, it opened only eight of 34 Gulf Coast harvest areas, which left fishers in stark competition and meant the areas were stripped long before the April deadline. Heavy oyster mortality from freshwater floods could spur another season with many closures next fall.

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Theres not much more of this we can take, said Johny Jurisich, who added shrinking public access reinforced the importance of successful harvests from private leases. Longtime fishers like Jurisich typically focus full-time on their leases starting in May.

Abandoning his hope for a good private season after a poor public one, Jurisich headed to work oyster boats in Louisiana instead.
HCM CITY  HSBC has levelled up its strategic partnership with Gene Solutions, a biotechnology company, through a social loan, which allows Gene Solutions to continue expanding its healthcare services to Viet Nam and ASEANs citizens.

Gene Solutions, founded and headquartered in Viet Nam, has a strong lab partnership network in ASEAN like Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The social loan, HSBCs first for a Vietnamese corporate group and in the form of a revolving credit facility, is expected to support Gene Solutions with their capital needs, technology upgrades, new product launches and expansion in the region.

These collectively aim to enhance the accessibility to and affordability of, essential healthcare services across Southeast Asia, particularly in early risk detection, non-invasive prenatal testing, cancer screening and diagnosis.

The loan is compliant with HSBC's credit management and approval process on sustainable finance. The social loan was provided via HSBC Singapores groundbreaking US$200 million New Economy Fund, designed to empower new economy business growth and innovation in Southeast Asia.

Gene Solutions is the first venture-backed startup from Viet Nam to get the Funds financing. In Viet Nam, HSBC is one of the first banks that have built a clear new economy strategy to support these companies in the country.  VNS
HA NOI  The oil-gas and energy sector forms a key pillar in the Viet Nam-Russia cooperation, the development of which receive significant attention from leaders of both sides, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha told visiting General Director of Russias Zarubezhneft JSC Sergey Ivanovich Kudryashov at their meeting in Ha Noi on Wednesday.

Ha said effective teamwork between the Russian oil and gas company and the State-owned Viet Nam Oil and Gas Group (Petrovietnam) has contributed significantly to the countries economic ties.

He suggested that the two businesses put forth practical proposals to scale up their partnership and that Zarubezhneft and related Vietnamese agencies and partners continue incorporating the nations comprehensive strategic partnership principles into their implementation of investment and cooperation projects in Viet Nam.

The Deputy PM wishes that Zarubezhneft will prioritise injecting capital in renewable energy projects such as offshore wind power and the production of new fuels like green hydrogen and green ammonia. He encouraged the company to leverage the infrastructure and physical facilities of oil drilling rigs for these initiatives.

With Viet Nam and Russia having ample room for cooperation in the energy sector, Zarubezhneft and Petrovietnam should prioritise investment, research, and technology mastery in producing new types of green fuels derived from renewable energy sources, Deputy PM Ha said.

The Russian businessman updated his host on the operation of the joint venture Vietsovpetro and other projects in the oil and energy sector in Viet Nam, highlighting their significant contribution to the bilateral trade.

Zarubezhneft shared over four decades of partnership with Petrovietnam, notably through the establishment of joint ventures such as Vietsovpetro and Rusvietpetro for geological exploration and oil and gas extraction. The two are currently effectively realising high-level agreements between Viet Nam and Russia in their sector.  VNS
HA NOI  Benchmark indices inched higher on Wednesday, marking a second consecutive session of gains, despite persistent strong net selling by foreign investors.

On the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), the VN-Index rose 0.29 points, or 0.02 per cent, to close the trading session at 1,279.79 points.

On the southern bourse, the breadth was negative as 187 stocks ticked down, while 141 increased and 49 ended flat. Liquidity hovered above VN25.9 trillion (US$1.02 billion), an increase of 15 per cent from the previous session.

The 30 biggest stocks tracker, the VN30-Index, climbed 4.33 points, or 0.33 per cent, to 1,314.22 points. Fourteen ticker symbols in the VN30 basket edged up, while fourteen inched down and two stocks ended flat.

Data compiled by the financial website vietstock.vn showed that Vietnam Airlines JSC (HVN) was the biggest gainer on the market and led the market in terms of capitalisation. Shares of the national airline hit a ceiling on Wednesday, rising by 6.92 per cent, contributing more than 1.3 points to the VN-Index gain.

It was followed by FPT Corporation (FPT), with shares of the software manufacturer increasing 2.73 per cent, Vietnam Prosperity Joint Stock Commercial Bank (VPB), up 2.15 per cent and Mobile World Investment Corporation (MWG), up 1.77 per cent.

Limiting the rallies, some big stocks still faced strong sell-offs. Vingroup Joint Stock Company (VIC) posted a decrease of 1.43 per cent, Sabeco (SAB) was down 2.52 per cent and the Vietnam Rubber Group - Joint Stock Company (GVR) lost 1.03 per cent.

Banking stocks also saw poor performances on Wednesday. The Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (VCB) declined 0.57 per cent, the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BID) fell 0.86 per cent and the Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank (TCB) tumbled 1.02 per cent.

The Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX) index finished lower on Wednesday afternoon, declining 0.35 per cent to 243.57 points.

During the session, more than VN1.4 trillion worth of shares were traded, equivalent to a trading volume of over 71 million shares on the northern bourse.

Foreign investors extended their net selling spree as they net sold over VN1.5 trillion on the HoSE. This bloc has been net selling for ten consecutive sessions.  VNS
HA NOI  The State Securities Commission (SSC) has told VPS Securities Company to immediately cease the distribution of securities certificates in the form of fractional real estate, said an official from SSC.

VPS has recently partnered with Fnest JSC to implement an approach where real estate is divided up into shares and sold to investors through the VPS SmartOne application, with a minimum cost of VN10,000 (US$0.39).

Fnest and VPS have undertaken the subdivision of apartments and villas for sale to investors, allowing them to own a portion of the real estate with a minimum investment of only VN10,000 per share.

After purchasing Fnest shares, investors have two options, sell the fractional real estate on the secondary market, similar to selling stocks, or wait for Fnest VPS to sell the real estate upon achieving expected profits and distributing profits based on the shares held.

For example, a VN10 billion property would be divided into one million Fnest shares. Investors can acquire these fractional shares and benefit from the appreciation in value as well as the professional management and operation activities conducted by specialised organisations.

During a press conference held by the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday afternoon, Bui Hoang Hai, Vice Chairman of the SSC, said there are currently no specific regulations in place for this form of fractional real estate.

As a result, the SSC requested that VPS halt these fractional real estate share sales in order to ensure legal compliance and investor safety.

The SSC added buyers are essentially investing in a fraction of the real estate, rather than having any complete ownership.

Deputy Minister of Finance Nguyen uc Chi stated that the ministry has directed the SSC to closely monitor the operations of securities companies.

While there is no explicit prohibition at present, services must operate within licensed sectors and industries.

If they fall outside the authorised scope, their activities will need to be halted for a comprehensive assessment by the regulatory authorities.

Fnest, founded in November 2022, is headquartered in Long Bien District, Ha Noi. Fnest specialises in real estate services such as consulting, brokerage, auctions and land use rights.

Meanwhile, the VPS SmartOne app offers various properties for sale, including villas, shophouses and condominiums. Investors pay a transaction fee of VN30 per Fnest for trading in these fractional real estate shares.

Currently, all nine real estate codes have been sold, but secondary trading options are still available.  VNS
MOSCOW  There is ample room to promote trade between Vietnam and Russias Far East, head of the Vietnam Trade Office Branch in the Far East region Nguyen Hong Thanh said in an interview with the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) ahead of the state visit to Vietnam by President Vladimir Putin.

Although the Far East is not a large market with a population of about 8.2 million, its trade turnover with the world is high, Thanh said, suggesting Vietnamese businesses consider increasing the export volume of key products to that market, such as farm produce, processed food, consumer goods, garment and textiles, footwear, electrical and electronic products, equipment and machinery.

In the last ten years, bilateral trade between Viet Nam and the Far East has grown significantly, from less than US$60 million in 2015 to nearly $300 million in 2023, he said.

He attributed the growth to efforts of the both sides' import-export business community, plus with the effectiveness of the Vietnam - Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) Free Trade Agreement and maritime transport routes connecting Vladivostok port to Vietnam's ports, intermodal railway route from Viet Nam's Gia Lam station to Chita station in Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia, via China.

Regarding economic and investment cooperation, Viet Nams TH True Milk Group is building a grass growing farm and a milk processing plant in Yakovlev district in Primorie. With a total investment of up to $270 million, it is a symbol of economic and investment cooperation between the two sides.

TH True Milks project has been granted 15,000 ha and recognised as a member of the Mikhailovski priority development area.

Thanh said his office has been supporting Vietnamese businesses in seeking cooperation opportunities in the Far East in such fields as civil construction and industrial construction in major cities in the Far East, coal mining in South Sakhalin, fish and fishmeal processing in Kamchatka, wood processing in Khabarovsk, shipbuilding and ship repair in Bolsoi Kamen.

He said he expects that those cooperation projects will soon be realised, and more Vietnamese businesses will see the Far East as a potential investment destination and expand their operations in Russia and the Asia-Pacific region.

He hoped that the coming visit to Viet Nam by Russian President Vladimir Putin will open connection channels on information between the two sides' enterprises, travel for businessmen and tourists, especially air routes linking the countries' localities, and help remove difficulties in payment  a pending barrier in promoting Vietnam-Far East economic, trade and investment ties.  VNS
HA NOI  Ten Owstons palm civets were born at the Cuc Phuong National Park in the north of Viet Nam under a captive breeding programme jointly implemented by the park and Save Viet Nam's Wildlife (SVW), the SVW said on June 18.

This is the biggest success so far in the captive breeding of the endangered animal, expected to help revive its population in the nature.

Tran Van Truong, a coordinator at the SVW, said the baby civets have been monitored around the clock via a camera system and human impact also minimised to ensure their safety.

According to SVW Director Nguyen Van Thai, the organisation is striving to seek additional resources and promote cooperation with domestic agencies to improve genetic diversity for the Owstons palm civet population in the captive environment, aiming to return the captive-bred mammals to the nature in the next 3-4 years.

It is also calling for intensifying measures to handle poaching as well as strengthening patrols to protect the species and its natural habitat.

Owstons palm civet (Chrotogale owstoni) was categorised on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Redlist as endangered in 2016. The species is native to Viet Nam, Laos, and a very small portion of southern China.

Its population in the nature has been shrinking considerably due to poaching and smuggling.  VNS
Meritorious Artist Bui Nhu Lai's new theatre production won the Best Acting Award and the Outstanding Play Award at the 7th Asian Theatre Schools Festival 2024 held by Asia Theatre and Education Centre (ATEC) in Beijing, China last month.

Lai became popular with his leading roles at the Viet Nam Youth Theatre. He is currently Vice Rector at the Ha Noi Academy of Theatre and Cinema.

Viet Nam News reporter Nguyen Binh interviews Lai about the new production.

Could you tell us about the awards at the festival?

The 7th ATEC Asian Theatre Schools Festival 2024, hosted by the Asian Theatre Education Centre and organised by the Central Academy of Drama, took place from May 17 to 23.

Twenty-two troupes from international cultural and artistic institutes in South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Mongolia, the US and Viet Nam attended the festival. Awards included one Best Play Award, two Outstanding Play Awards and nine Best Acting Awards.

Ha Noi Academy has participated in the festival and won awards in previous years. But this is the first time the academy received the Outstanding Play Award, which it shared with the Korean University Department of Theatre.

Pham Thu Thuy and ang Tuyet Anh received the Best Acting Award. Both of them are third-year students in the Traditional Arts Department. Their roles, Xuy Van and Thi Mau, are typical characters in cheo (popular opera).

What inspired you to combine three selected segments from traditional Vietnamese cheo performances?

The academy's performance Nhu Hat Mua Sa (Woman's Destiny Like A Rain Drop) was made to reconstruct the classics.

While retaining the original characteristics of the satire like traditional music ensembles and stylised actions, the performance underwent extensive adaptations in terms of theatrical language, music and physical movements to make the pacing, singing, recitations and actions softer and more modern.

Satire itself is Viet Nam's most representative indigenous theatrical genre, capable of fully showcasing the lives and sentiments of the Vietnamese people.

The traditional narrative style of actors entering and exiting the stage sequentially, introducing characters and changing costumes onstage attempts to convey to the audience that 'actors are actors, not the characters themselves,' paying homage to and bringing alive the classic satire performance.

The play shows the destinies of three different women during the feudal period. Thi Mau, a wealthy daughter of a feudal family, rushes to the forefront of resistance against oppression. She boldly confesses her love to a handsome monk in the temple, but after being rejected, she gives birth to a child with another man.

Forced by her situation, she has to falsely claim that the child is the monk's. However, the monk is actually a woman who was wrongfully accused of murdering her husband and sought refuge in the temple.

Now, she is falsely accused of having an affair with Thi Mau and giving birth to a child, adding another layer of injustice to her plight.

Another woman, named Xuy Van, resorts to pretending to be insane to escape the imposed traditional marriage system and to free herself from her controlling mother-in-law.

The performance reveals the tragic destinies of women bound by the shackles of secular norms in the olden days.

As a member of ATEC, what does the academy get from participating in the festival?

The main objectives of ATEC are to establish an effective network of theatre schools and organisations in Asia and enhance communication in theatre education between different countries and areas in Asia.

It aims to promote the development of theatre education, creation and research by providing a communication platform for all the students, teachers and researchers who are devoted to the study and practice of theatre in Asia.

Participating in the festival opens up opportunities for cooperation in training. We have students who are studying at the Centre Academy of Drama in Beijing.

In addition, there are opportunities for students to go on exchanges with short-term courses between the two academies. We also actively invite lecturers from international schools to come visit our master classes in the academy.

It is clear that joining and becoming an official member of ATEC is effective for training in the academy. The academy's teachers and students want to practise and hone their skills in teaching and learning. Participating in regional and international festivals will help us gain access to world standard levels and make good use of our inner strength.

Traditional theatre is not thriving. How is the academy recruiting students for traditional art departments?

Presently, traditional art classes in the academy include cheo (popular opera), cai luong (reformed theatre), traditional instruments, tuong (traditional opera) and puppetry.

However, it is difficult for us to recuit students for tuong and puppetry. It is a challenge for traditional theatre. Not only young people but others nowadays are far from traditional arts. I believe that there will be proper policy and strategy to preserve and promote traditional theatre in future. VNS
By Niem Chheng

PHNOM PENH  To celebrate the birthday of Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, the National Museum of Cambodia is playing host to an exhibition of Khmer Statues Returned to the Kingdom of Cambodia. The six-month show will run from Tuesday, June 18 to December 18.

Museum director Chhay Visoth told The Post today that 99 pieces will be on display from tomorrow, each of them returned to Cambodia after being looted and taken abroad.

He explained that the displays will be rotated monthly, with the five stone sculptures, along with gold and bronze jewellery pieces, on display for the first month.

Since 1996, Cambodia has seen more than 800 pieces returned from overseas. Many of them have been recovered through the efforts of the government, while some have been returned by foreign powers or philanthropists, according to Visoth.

The museum director appealed to the public, especially Phnom Penh residents and students, to visit the exhibition, while acknowledging that the museum does not have the capacity to display all of the returned pieces.

We aim to highlight some of the key items that we have recovered over the past decade. People can visit us and get to learn more about the museum and the work we do. This is especially important for members of the younger generations, he said.

Parents, especially those who live in Phnom Penh, should take this opportunity to encourage their children to love our Cambodian cultural heritage and play their part in its preservation, he added.

A ticket to the museum, located near the Royal Palace, costs 500 riel for a Cambodian citizen. Visitors should dress appropriately, as the museum is a respectful place filled with antiques, Visoth appealed.

He suggested that visitors leave large bags at the entrance and requested that people do not consume food or drink inside the museum.

In order to prevent any damage, Visoth also reminded guests to not touch the items on display. The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
GENEVA  Viet Nam, on behalf of the Core Group which also includes Bangladesh and the Philippines, will table the 2024 Resolution on Climate Change and Human Rights with the theme of ensuring human rights in the energy transition process at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)s 56th session that opened in Geneva on June 18.

The resolution has been actively introduced annually by Viet Nam, Bangladesh, and the Philippines for the councils consideration and approval since 2009, with a different theme for each year.

Viet Nam's active participation in the development and adoption of this resolution as well as in the activities of the Core Group reflects its efforts in responding to climate change, while also contributing to the implementation of its foreign policy of being proactive and positive in, and responsible for issues of common concern of the international community.

The 56th session, which will last to July 12, is seeing the participation of representatives of 47 member countries and more than 100 observer countries, intergovernmental international organisations and non-governmental organisations based in Geneva.

It is expected that 19 draft resolutions will be introduced for the council to consider and approve.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on June 18, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stressed that in 2023, data gathered by his office shows the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict soared by 72 per cent, with the proportion of women killed doubling and that of children tripling, compared to the year prior.

He called on countries to take action and work together to find a way back to peace, in line with the UN Charter and international law.  VNS
MOSCOW  Vietnamese and Russian experts gathered at a conference held in Moscow on June 18 to discuss the Viet Nam-Russia relations 30 years after the signing of the bilateral Treaty on Principles of Friendly Relations.

Addressing the event, Vice Director of the RAS Institute of Oriental Studies (IOS) Dr. Valentin Golovachev said that over the period, the treaty has shown its value through time.

So far, it has been automatically extended four times, he noted, adding that the 30th anniversary of the treaty provides a chance to review its implementation and define the vision for the future of the bilateral relations.

Participants highlighted the current situation of the Viet Nam-Russia relations across all fields such as economy, politics, diplomacy, and culture.

They noted that the treaty has been implemented effectively. Right after its signing, Viet Nam and Russia established their comprehensive strategic partnership, and Viet Nam is the only country outside the region to sign a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in which Russia plays a key role, they added.

However, they held that economic cooperation between Viet Nam and Russia has yet to match the sound relations between the two sides, and pointed out a number of reasons behind the situation, including a lack of a direct air route.

Speaking to the Vietnam News Agency in Moscow after the conference, Director of the IOSs Centre for Southeast Asia, Australia and Oceania Dmitry Mosyakov said that Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Viet Nam is to take place as the two countries are experiencing a new development period of their relations.

The two sides have been clearly aware of difficulties facing their economic partnership, he said, expressing his belief that the visit will help remove barriers in the field and lead to a fast economic cooperation recovery, he said.

Experts held that economy will be among the key contents of the agenda of the Russian leaders visit.

Director of the Ho Chi Minh Institute under the St. Petersburg University asserted that the two sides should deal with a lack of updated information and news of each other.

Participants at the conference also spotlighted typical characteristics of Viet Nam's foreign policy and achievements it has gained at international forums and the world arena.

Maria Zelenkova from the Russian Institute for Strategic Studies (RISI) held that Viet Nam is becoming increasingly attractive to Russian youngsters thanks to the nations unique identity, while Viet Nam's exceptionally fast development rate is also attractive for researchers from foreign countries.  VNS
Rescue boats work along Tidwell at the east Sam Houston Tollway helping to evacuate people Monday, August 28, 2017 in Houston. Much of the area is flooded from rains after Hurricane Harvey. ( Melissa Phillip / Houston Chronicle) Melissa Phillip Homes just east of Beltway 8 flood during Hurricane Harvey, the storm that triggered a new statewide flood planning process. (Mark Mulligan / Houston Chronicle) Mark Mulligan, Staff Photographer / Mark Mulligan / Houston Chronicle Hilell Tayer and Alex Gonik try to beat the current pushing them down an overflowing Brays Bayou along S. Braeswood in Houston, Texas, Sunday, Aug. 27, 2017. Rescuers answered hundreds of calls for help Sunday as floodwaters from the remnants of Hurricane Harvey climbed high enough to begin filling second-story homes, and authorities urged stranded families to seek refuge on their rooftops. (Mark Mulligan/Houston Chronicle) Mark Mulligan/Associated Press

Houston residents did not need a statewide flood plan to remind them that Texas overflows.

A new flood strategy triggered by legislation after Hurricane Harvey could unlock money and strategies that help the most vulnerable locals, though it is playing catch-up on flood zone changes triggered by climate change and development.

The first full draft of the plan from the Texas Water Development Board, a 267-page report that drew on input from 15 volunteer-led regional groups, showed that over 5 million Texans live or work in areas susceptible to flooding. The plan's solutions targeted locations with at least a 1% chance of flooding each year according to historic averages, also known as 100-year floodplains.

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Its a useful statistic because it does reflect that particular regions hydroclimate. But the concern is that its based on the assumption that the climate is not changing, said the Rev. Rebecca Edwards, a fellow at interfaith group Texas Impact with a doctorate in atmospheric science and civil engineering. Edwards was one of many Texans who offered comments on the draft plan before the Monday comment deadline.

In addition to using that statistic, there was not a lot of specific mention in the plan of the potential for changes in precipitation going forward, she told the Chronicle.

Critics jousted on social media in the days following the plans launch over whether it mattered that the document did not use the phrase climate change. What it did do was rank 4,609 project proposals worth a total of $54.5 billion  a budget that dwarfs available funds from the Texas Legislature  without considering where floodplains are likely expanding based on current climate models.

It did not leave out future considerations entirely, though. Regions had to consider future condition flood risks in each of their reports, which were later combined into the overall strategy. But the state plan ranked individual projects using only historical factors like estimated number of structures at 100-year risk and estimated population at 100-year risk.

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In Houston, those supposed 100-year storms have been hitting far more frequently in recent years.

I personally know people across the city that are still recovering from Harvey or from other storms, and then they end up getting hit again, said Stephany Valdez, a Houston-based water expert for the Coalition for Equity, Environment and Resilience who has been watching the flood planning process carefully.

Valdez said many of the residents hit repeatedly with floods either live outside areas currently considered floodplains, or do not know they are within one.

How the first state flood plan calculated risk

The Texas Water Development Board did its own mapping to help regions visualize their risk. Officials worked with flood modeling group Fathom to fill information gaps across the state. This process also analyzed the likelihood of flooding based only on past averages, without forward-looking projections.

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The boards director of Flood Planning, Reem Zoun, said it is a good first step and that there had been areas in the Panhandle and West Texas with no flood maps at all.

More research is to come, looking at future rainfall patterns, looking at subsidence, looking at future land use and looking at sea level rise, Zoun said.

Regional groups would still use future projections more for informational purposes though, she said. According to the state law that created the planning process in 2019, regions are not required to consider future risk modeling when choosing which projects to prioritize. Instead they are meant to rely on 100-year floodplains as defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The Houston area is more information-rich than much of the state when it comes to flood data. But its panel of volunteers  the 11-county San Jacinto Regional Flood Planning Group  faced knowledge gaps. Outdated FEMA maps for the region do not reflect the sharp increase in recent flooding, and new analyses from the federal agency that are expected to be more accurate were recently delayed until 2025.

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At the time of Hurricane Harvey, which directly killed 68 people in Texas and damaged over 204,000 homes, the storm created the areas third 500-year flood in three years, even though 500-year floodplains are meant to face only a 0.2% chance of filling with water each year. The mismatch suggests that unless the last decade has been shockingly, improbably unlucky, Houstonians are at much greater risk than current maps show.

Those same 500-year floodplains were used by many regions to approximate future conditions. A public comment on the state flood plan submitted by a group of environmentalists ranging from the National Wildlife Federation to the local Bayou City Waterkeeper said 10 of 15 regions across the state had done their future-looking calculations by simply using 500-year floodplains to make assumptions about what 100-year floodplains might look like in the future.

Climate change impacts such as increased precipitation are not adequately taken into consideration through this proxy, the commenters said, urging the state authority to pull their new analysis with Fathom into the draft plan now instead of waiting for the next version in five years.

As with other big storms to hit Texas recently, the majority of homes damaged by Harvey flooding were outside even the 500-year floodplain.

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While Houstons own planning group did a more complex analysis to model future flood conditions, their regional report confirmed that future-looking calculations would be used solely for the purpose of estimating the general magnitude of potential future increases in flood risk, not to plan specific solutions.
HA NOI  During his 5th visit to Viet Nam on June 19 and 20, President Vladimir Putin and a high-ranking delegation of Russia are scheduled to have talks and meetings with senior leaders of Viet Nam and some other activities, thereby continuing to enhance and develop the two countries' relations.

The state visit, made at the invitation of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong, takes place at a time when the two nations are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Treaty on Principles of Friendly Relations between Viet Nam and Russia this year and on the threshold of the 75th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties in 2025.

The two countries established a strategic partnership in 2001 and lifted it to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2012.

Over the past years, the bilateral relations have been developing well, quickly, and comprehensively. The mutual understanding and political trust have been enhanced through high-level visits and exchanges.

The CPV's cooperation with major political parties of Russia, including United Russia, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, and A Just Russia - For Truth, has also been growing strongly. Cooperation between the two governments and parliaments has also been promoted.

Viet Nam was the first country to sign a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), of which Russia is a member. It is the largest trading partner of Russia in Southeast Asia while Russia is one of Vietnam's top five trading partners in Europe. The two sides are also implementing investment projects in each other's markets, including in the areas where Russia has strengths such as energy, science -technology, and education - training.

They have also carried out various forms of cooperation in defence and security.

Collaboration in the fields of education - training and science - technology continues to be maintained. There are about 5,000 Vietnamese students in Russia at present. Cultural, sport and tourism ties have also been actively promoted with annual culture days held rotationally.

Regarding locality-to-locality connections, 20 pairs of Vietnamese and Russian localities have formed twinned relationships. The 60,000-strong Vietnamese community in Russia are contributing much to the traditional friendship.

Le Hoai Trung, Secretary of the CPV Central Committee and Chairman of the CPV Central Committees Commission for External Relations, said that overall, the two countries' relationship has been developing comprehensively and strongly, bringing practical benefits to their people for the sake of peace, stability, and cooperation in the region and the world.

During the visit, senior leaders of Viet Nam, President Putin, and the high-ranking delegation of Russia will discuss the situation in each country and international issues of mutual concern such as the maintenance of peace, cooperation and development; the settlement of disputes; and the implementation of important frameworks such as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) towards a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC). They will also devise orientations to promote all-round partnerships in the coming time.

The visit reflects Viet Nam's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, development, and diversification and multilateralisation of external relations, Trung added.

He went on to say that the visit also helps affirm Viet Nam's position and prestige, along with the consistent foreign policy issued at the 13th National Party Congress. It also aims to promote the pioneering role of diplomacy in creating and maintaining peace and mobilising resources for national development.

The trip, which takes place shortly after President Putin begins his new term, demonstrates Russia and the leader's high evaluation of Viet Nam's potential, position and prestige after 40 years of oi moi(Renewal). It also shows the visiting leader's respect for the CPV's leadership and General Secretary Trong, who has significantly contributed to the bilateral ties.

With the two countries' traditional friendship, their people's strong support and the achievements obtained so far, President Putin's visit is an important occasion for elevating the bilateral relations, capitalise on both sides' potential and advantages, and set forth new cooperation orientations to realise their common goals, benefit the two nations' people, and actively contribute to peace, cooperation, and development in the region and the world at large.  VNS
NEW YORK  Viet Nam has rolled out a series of measures to strictly manage weapons, including the issuance of legal documents that ensure the arms will not get into the hands of criminals, Ambassador ang Hoang Giang, head of the Permanent Delegation of Viet Nam to the UN, said on June 18 (US time).

At the fourth UN Conference aimed at combating the illegal trade in weapons, concerns were raised that even if weapons were described as small, the damage they cause is always great.

During the session, a Review on Progress Made in the Implementation of the Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UN PoA) and the International Tracing Instrument (ITI), Giang expressed his concern over the risks of the spread of illegal weapons during and after conflicts.

The Vietnamese diplomat laid a stress on the significance of the international cooperation and support at the regional and global levels and experience sharing between Vietnam and partner countries to the border control and cross-border crime prevention, including ASEAN mechanisms.

Based on the countrys experience and the regions situation, he suggested the UN conference focus on discussing measures to prevent the increase of the armed conflicts in the world, describing it as the best way to curb the illegal trade in weapons.

It is necessary for countries to make joint efforts in implementing the UN action programme, including the rational settlement of emerging challenges, he said, adding fighting the illegal trade of weapons should not leave negative impact on their defence, security and social orders.

International cooperation and assistance must be in line with the UN Charter and international laws, including the principles of sovereignty and non-interference, he said.

At the conference, attended by representatives from 193 UN members, Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu held that small arms and light weapons play a major role in the conflicts across the globe, and there is nothing 'small' or 'light' about the damage they cause.

Strong actions must be taken to stem the flow and trafficking of small arms and light weapons, he said, underscoring that those who are bearing the brunt of illegal small arms, particularly women and young people, must also have a voice in the discussions.

The conference, taking place until June 28, will review the UN action programme on the fight against the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons for 2018-24, as well as putting forth measures to bolster international cooperation in carrying out commitments for 2024-30.

The UN PoA was adopted by the UN in 2001 while the ITI was approved in 2005 to enable states to identify and trace the smuggling of small arms and light weapons.  VNS
HA NOI  The State-level visit to Viet Nam by Russian President Vladimir Putin on June 19-20 at the invitation of the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Viet Nam's Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong was the highest diplomatic protocol level in relations between countries, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to Viet Nam G.S. Bezdetko said to the press on June 19.

Ambassador Bezdetko emphasised that the visit coincided with the 30th anniversary of the Treaty on the Basic Principles of Friendly Relations between Viet Nam and Russia (June 16, 1994-2024).

The historic document has significantly expanded the relationship between the two countries, while also laying the foundation for the development and implementation of major joint projects and initiatives in many fields, he said.

The diplomat said the treaty marked the beginning of a new phase in the development of multifaceted cooperation between the two countries and created a premise for bringing Russia-Viet Nam relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Diversify bilateral cooperation

Ambassador Bezdetko affirmed that the cooperative relationship between Viet Nam and Russia over the past three decades has always been expanding, dynamic and diversifying.

In 2001, the Russia-Viet Nam Declaration on Strategic Partnership was signed in Ha Noi.

In 2012, the two sides strategic partnership was upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Regular political dialogues are established at all levels, and the two sides have effective mechanisms for interaction in the fields of trade, economics, science, technology and humanities.

Direct dialogue between leaders is always an opportunity to strengthen political trust, especially in the current situation when the global political and economic context is undergoing drastic changes, according to the diplomat.

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when all contacts were online, Russian and Vietnamese leaders still regularly exchanged and discussed the most urgent issues on the bilateral agenda.

President Vladimir Putin has visited Viet Nam four times, including two official visits in 2001 and 2013 and two times attending the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summits in Ha Noi and a Nang in 2006 and 2017.

In the past year, Minister of Public Security, now President To Lam, Head of the Party Central Committees Commission for External Affairs Le Hoai Trung, Minister of National Defence Phan Van Giang and Vice Chairman of the National Assembly Nguyen Khac inh, visited Russia.

The results of meetings have created a good foundation for the bilateral relations at the highest level.

The Russian official affirmed that President Putin's upcoming visit aimed to create more motivation to develop Russia-Viet Nam cooperation in many fields.

The focus will be in strengthening interactions in traditional areas such as economy and investment, science and technology, education and training, culture and tourism, and also defense and security.

Russia is willing to cooperate closely with Viet Nam in the international arena, first of all at the United Nations and in ASEAN-centred frameworks, based on the proximity or coincidence of views on key issues of global and regional agenda, promoting common approaches to solving pressing issues of the era.

The two sides uphold the basic principles of sovereignty equality, non-intervention in the internal affairs of independent nations, and lawfulness and justice in international relations.

Russia supports multi-platform cooperation strengthening the ties of leading associations in the region, first of all the Eurasian Economic Union, forming the Expanded Asia-Europe Partnership - a single open space - and mutually beneficial cooperation with the participation of all interested countries.

Ambassador Bezdetko said the group of leading emerging economies in the world, BRICS, is a promising platform for interaction with Viet Nam.

Potential for expanding cooperation

According to the Russian Ambassador, the potential to further diversify bilateral cooperation between Russia and Viet Nam is huge.

The joint work is based on the unchanging tradition of friendship, mutual assistance and mutual benefit built by the previous generations of the two countries.

It has the sole purpose, which is ensuring happiness and prosperity of the people of the two nations.

We look forward to maintaining close and effective cooperation in areas such as energy, industrial production, science and technology, education and training, defence and security, trade and investment, as well as consistent implementation of agreements at the highest levels. We believe that further strengthening the relationship between Russia and Viet Nam will fully meet the basic interests of our two peoples," he remarked.

He said that among the key tasks that need to be resolved are ensuring peace and security in a broad sense, combating terrorism, tackling transnational crimes and drug trafficking and all existing and emerging challenges and threats.

Russia attaches great importance to efforts to cope with climate change and equitable energy transition.

The country is ready to cooperate with Viet Nam in clean energy and decarbonisation for the economy.

"Russia, as one of the world's leading countries in this field, is ready to provide Viet Nam with the most modern technologies in clean, reliable and stable electricity, first and foremost nuclear power. This is what many Asian countries choose as an alternative to traditional energy sources," said the Russian Ambassador.

With regards to education, the diplomat said that Russia has established the Alliance of Technical Universities to expand opportunities to train experts in the fields of high technology, information technology, energy and machine manufacturing.

Russia provides Viet Nam with the single largest free education quota of a thousand scholarships.

The country is delighted with the achievements of Vietnamese students graduating from Russian universities. They are working in many sectors of economics, industry, healthcare, culture and education of Viet Nam as well as holding important positions in the Party and Government. These people are the core of Russian-Vietnamese people's diplomacy.

Both in Russia and Viet Nam, educational and cultural events aim to promote the traditional values of the two peoples, Russian and Vietnamese, as well as events commemorating memorable days in the two countries' history.

According to the Ambassador, people-to-people diplomacy remains one of the most important tools in the two sides' interaction, without which, in principle, it would be difficult to imagine Russia-Viet Nam relations.

The Russian diplomat affirmed that Viet Nam and Russia have a rich common history and extensive cooperation experience, across most areas.

The two countries have extensive political dialogues, highly dynamic humanitarian exchanges and similar values and development orientations.

All of this is a reliable basis to further develop bilateral relations, constantly consolidating and developing the Russia-Viet Nam comprehensive strategic partnership.  VNS
HA NOI  President To Lam extended congratulations and presented gifts to veteran journalists in Ha Noi on Wednesday on the occasion of the 99th anniversary of Viet Nam Revolutionary Press Day (June 21, 1925-2024).

Lam visited Ho Tien Nghi, former member of the Party Central Committee, former assistant to the Party General Secretary and former General Director of the Vietnam News Agency (VNA); Ha ang, former member of the Party Central Committee and former Chairman of the Party Central Committee's Commission for Ideology and Culture; Vu Van Hien, former member of the Party Central Committee and former General Director of Vietnam Television (VTV); and Phan Quang, former President of the Viet Nam Journalists Association and former General Director of Radio the Voice of Vietnam (VOV).

The president conveyed regards and warmest congratulations of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to the veteran journalists, while affirming the Party and State's gratitude towards journalists who have made contributions to the revolutionary journalism cause, the development of the country's journalism in particular and national construction and defence in general.

Wishing the veteran journalists good health, he hoped they continue to promote the revolutionary spirit to further contribute to the country's journalism, inspring younger journalists.

The veteran journalists expressed their belief that the President will make more contributions to national construction and development for the benefits of the people, and affirmed that they will continue to promote the tradition of revolutionary journalism, participate in educating the young generation, and contribute to the country's development.  VNS
HA NOI  A delegation from the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) led by Nguyen Minh Tam, deputy head of the Party Central Committees Commission for External Relations, joined their peers from 32 countries and political parties at the International Inter-Party Forum BRICS and Partner-Countries (BRICS+) 2024 hosted by the United Russia party in Vladivostok, Russia from June 16-19.

Tam delivered speeches at the plenary session of the forum and a roundtable held on the forum's sidelines on the role of responsible political forces of Russia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries in ensuring the financial and economic security of sovereign states, which were highly applauded by the delegates.

On the sidelines of the event, the CPV delegation had bilateral meetings with delegations from a number of parties to review their cooperation and a number of international and regional issues of mutual concern.

The BRICS+ International Inter-Party Forum, which drew 150 delegates, focused on discussing the current world situation, especially non-separation security, the building of a more equitable, fair and multipolar world order, cooperation among countries in the fields of economics, trade and investment, and the role of BRICS, which groups Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates, in the new world order and the expansion of the group.

Most delegates emphasised the importance of dialogue mechanisms in resolving disputes by peaceful measures, enhancing connectivity and economic integration, strengthening political trust, and promoting common efforts to address global challenges.

The forum also affirmed the role of developing countries, especially countries in the southern hemisphere, in solving international and regional problems.

Representatives from parties shared their country's experience in responding to the financial crisis and restoring economic development, promoting economic, trade and investment cooperation between Russia and regional countries.  VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh hosted a reception in Ha Noi on Wednesday for visiting Director General of Russia's Rosatom State Atomi Energy Corporation A.E.Likhachev, during which the host asked the Russian side to continue supporting Viet Nam in training human resources in nuclear science.

The PM agreed to cooperate with Russia in building a nuclear medicine centre and researching wind power development.

He said that Viet Nam wishes to continue substantive and effective cooperation with Russia in all fields, including atomic energy for peaceful purposes, for the common interests of the two countries' people, for peace, stability and development in the region and the world.

PM Chinh said Viet Nam highly appreciates Russia's support in training generations of leading Vietnamese scientists and experts in atomic energy, designing, restoring and increasing the capacity of the a Lat nuclear reactor, thus contributing to socio-economic development in terms of providing radiopharmaceuticals for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Viet Nam has not had any policy to return to developing nuclear power, but it will continue to research and consider nuclear energy as an important solution to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, ensure energy security, and serve national development, he said.

The PM suggested both sides continue to promote cooperation in nuclear science and technology research for peaceful purposes, especially in ensuring energy and serving people.

He asked Russia and Rosatom in particular to keep supporting Viet Nam in human resources training, operation of the a Lat research reactor, and share information to ensure the quality and progress of the project on building a nuclear science and technology research centre in the southern province of ong Nai.

He welcomed the group's proposal in building a nuclear medicine centre and cooperating in wind power research and development.

Reviewing the results of cooperation between the two countries in the nuclear field, General Director of Rosatom Likhachev affirmed that Russia and Rosatom wish to continue promoting cooperation with Viet Nam in the fields that the Prime Minister has mentioned, especially research on nuclear science, including atomic power, nuclear medicine, and applications in transportation, and others like wind power development.

Rosatom is ready to share experience with and support Viet Nam in improving capacity, training human resources, and promoting the localisation in these fields.  VNS
HA NOI  The authorities of Ha Noi have approved a plan to improve the lives of its residents across various levels by 2030.

Specific targets include ensuring veterans and their families on monthly allowances have comfortable conditions of living, above the average in their communities.

Additionally, the city aims to slash unemployment rates to below 3.0 per cent overall and below 3.5 per cent in urban areas while it aims to train at least 80 per cent of the workforce.

Social security is also a significant piece of the puzzle. The plan aims for a substantial portion of the working-age population to participate in social and unemployment insurance schemes. Beyond working years, it also strives to provide a secure future for retirees, with a target of 65 per cent receiving regular pensions and social support.

Health and well-being are equally important. Ha Noi is setting its sights on a longer, healthier life for its residents. The average life expectancy is expected to reach 77 years, with a minimum of 68 years spent in good health. Expanding health insurance coverage to 98 per cent and encouraging residents to use primary care services are crucial steps towards achieving this goal.

But perhaps the most striking aspect of the plan (Plan No.181/KH-UBND) lies in housing. Ha Noi residents can expect a significant improvement in living space, with the average square footage per person being 32 sq m.

Furthermore, the city plans to develop a staggering 2.5 million sq m of new social housing. This includes the construction of one to two independent social housing complexes, along with the most noteworthy commitment, ensuring every industrial and export processing zone in the city has access to social housing.

The success of the programme hinges on it being implemented so authorities have urged all relevant agencies to put the plan into action.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam has been recognised as one of the few countries with the best HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment in the world.

The lead is the result of the participation of the entire political system and relevant forces, along with efforts of many community groups.

Associate Professor Phan Thi Thu Huong, Director of the Viet Nam Administration of HIV/AIDS Control (VAAC) under the Ministry of Health, said that at present, many HIV-positive people in Viet Nam belonged to vulnerable groups such as people who use drugs, sex workers and men who have sex with men (MSM).

They are easily discriminated against, so the State health system is more difficult to access.

Currently, the country has about 400 community groups, which play an important role in educating people about how to reduce the risk of contracting HIV and connecting individuals to treatment, along with providing free practical help.

The groups convince people with HIV to go for treatment, helping them overcome difficult times and reintegrate into life.

One of the key factors that help community groups be effective is close cooperation among members.

Experience and expertise sharing has enhanced the capacity of the overall system.

For example, the Viet Nam Network of People with HIV (VNP+) is a non-governmental organisation founded in 2009, which now has more than 300 affiliate member clubs across the country.

These clubs give technical support and provide advocacy for people living with HIV.

Thanks to this cooperation, members of the groups have improved their ability for testing consultation, mutual care and support and expanded epidemic surveillance for people at high risk in their areas.

Deputy Director of the Kien Giang Centre for Disease Control Vo Thi Loi said that without peers from the community groups, it was a big challenge to access at-risk people, while the risk of infection among MSM was increasing at an alarming rate.

Support

When receiving a positive HIV test result, Nguyen Thuy Ng., who lives in Binh Thanh District, HCM City, collapsed and felt like her life had stopped.

But when she met Ngo Thuy H., leader of the group 'For a brighter tomorrow', Ng. found joy again.

Ng. recalls that after her husband died of HIV, the community group suggested she also test and while waiting for the results, she became a hermit. The results were exactly as she predicted.

But the love and enthusiasm from the group helped Ng. regain the will to live and equip her with better knowledge and understanding about HIV/AIDS. Now, she herself is one of the active members of the group, helping and mentoring new members.

'Each day of living must be 24 hours of love and meaning' is the group's motto and is spread by all members of the group to bring hope to people living with HIV across the country.

Currently, the HIV infection rate among people who use drugs and MSM is one of the main sources of the HIV epidemic in Viet Nam.

Statistics from the VAAC showed that the HIV infection rate increased by sixfold between 2012 and 2020.

However, for many reasons, the MSM community cannot access and use services such as testing and treatment in the usual way.

Therefore, more than ever, community groups are the bridge to help people with HIV access services, get information and collect practical items such as needles and condoms.

Viet Nam is gradually transferring financial responsibility for HIV/AIDS prevention from international donors to domestic agencies, with community groups expected to become an indispensable pillar in the work needing to be done.

Experience from the COVID-19 pandemic proved the power of community network. When social distancing was applied, many people living with HIV had difficulty accessing antiretroviral drugs.

The network quickly called for volunteers and coordinated with local medical facilities to supply medicine to HIV patients houses.

Thanks to the timely support, thousands of people living with HIV did not have to interrupt treatment during the pandemic.

In addition, the community network also invited participation from the private sector and other resources, creating a diverse and sustainable ecosystem for HIV/AIDS prevention.  VNS
HA NOI  The Ministry of Health (MoH) has approved a project aimed at preventing, detecting, and managing non-communicable diseases and mental health disorders through the end of 2025.

The move is meant to enhance public health protection, care and improvement by strengthening preventive measures, early detection and treatment management.

The project hopes to reduce the prevalence of pre-disease conditions, illnesses, disabilities and premature deaths caused by cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma as well as mental health disorders.

Hospital reports indicate that 65-75 per cent of inpatients suffer from non-communicable diseases, with oncology, respiratory and cardiovascular departments particularly burdened. Mental health is also a significant challenge.

Statistics from the National Institute of Endocrinology reveal that approximately 6-7 per cent of the population has diabetes. According to the National Cardiovascular Institute of Viet Nam, hypertension, the silent killer, affects 25 per cent of people over the age of 25.

The prevalence of non-communicable diseases is rapidly increasing, yet they are detected and treated in only one-third of patients.

Viet Nam's high alcohol consumption exacerbates injuries, brain strokes and heart attacks, while the high smoking rate contributes to various diseases, including cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cardiovascular issues.

Non-communicable diseases are estimated to account for about 77 per cent of all deaths in Viet Nam annually, mainly due to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

In response, the MoHs project sets several goals for 2024-2025. These include increasing prevention, early detection and treatment management rates for non-communicable diseases and mental health disorders, enhancing the health system's capacity to provide these services and improving monitoring, information management and reporting on non-communicable diseases, mental health disorders and associated risk factors.

Achieving these goals requires organising services for screening, performing health checks, measuring indicators and conducting tests to detect non-communicable diseases and mental health disorders early.

Regular screening should be integrated into medical services, especially at communal health stations, with periodic public health checks and proactive visits by high-risk individuals to medical facilities.

Screening should also be included in the healthcare management of children and students, with workplace health examinations, elderly care and prenatal check-ups for pregnant women.

The target group includes people of all ages, with a focus on those aged 40 and above and individuals determined to be at high risk for specific diseases.

Regular monitoring, check-ups, counselling and prevention are essential for high-risk individuals and those with pre-disease conditions.

This includes managing and preventing cardiovascular risk, counselling for smoking cessation, screening and interventions to reduce harm from alcohol consumption and creating psychological counselling records for those at high risk of mental disorders.

Activities should be organised through integrated health management at educational institutions, workplaces, community health stations and related medical facilities.

The MoH aims to develop and enhance the capacity of the health system to provide these services at all levels.  VNS
HA NOI  The owner of a cafe on Ha Noi's famous train street has been fined VN7.5 million (US$300) for allowing a foreign tourist to pose for a photograph on the rail track as a train approached.

Hoan Kiem District Police punished the 61-year-old owner of the cafe at No.5 Tran Phu Street, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District for having no registration license, and allowing customers to engage in behaviour that endangered safety.

On June 18, a video on Facebook went viral showing a woman coming out onto the track and seemingly pose for a photo, as the train approached.

As the train nears, a man came running to push the woman to safety.

The man was later identified as the cafe owner.

Following the incident, Hoan Kiem District People's Committee has requested that the People's Committees of the Hang Bong, Cua Nam, Cua ong, Hang Ma, and ong Xuan wards, through which the railway runs, intensify inspections and strictly handle any business activities violating railway traffic safety regulations.

Additionally, Hoan Kiem District Police have been ordered to increase their presence to prevent tourists from eating, drinking, filming, taking photos, etc., within the railway traffic safety corridor.

Measures must be taken to ensure that people do not engage in dangerous actions that could affect railway operations, it said.

Coordination with the railway sector to man checkpoints and ensure railway traffic safety is also required.

Hoan Kiem District has also instructed the wards and relevant authorities to continue to strengthen the dissemination of laws regarding railway traffic order and safety. The focus should be on publicising prohibited behaviour according to the Railway Law.

More barriers and warning signs should be installed and further personnel to monitor and address urban order and safety violations within the railway corridor, with strict handling of any violations.  VNS
Shakari Briggs is a reporter for the Houston Chronicle. She can be reached at shakari.briggs@houstonchronicle.com.

Before joining the Chronicle in November 2023, she worked for Spectrum News as a digital journalist based in her hometown. Shakari comes to the Houston newsroom with experience in broadcast reporting and producing as a former multimedia journalist and associate producer. The Dallas native has also worked at small to medium-sized newspapers throughout her career.

Her reporting on the rise and fall of a shopping mall won an Arkansas Associated Press Managing Editors Contest award. She also earned an Arkansas Press Association award for freelance reporting.
HCM CITY  The University of Sydney on June 18 announced the official launch of the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute, a non-profit social enterprise wholly owned by the University of Sydney.

Its mission is to conduct multidisciplinary research across various fields such as health, agriculture, arts, social sciences, business, and Net Zero initiatives, aiming to bring about prosperity for both countries. Supported by up to AUD40-45 million (US$26.6-30 million) in non-profit funding from the Australian government and international donors, all revenue generated by the institute will be reinvested into research activities in Viet Nam.

Rooted in the success story of several university-led research projects previously conducted through and in affiliation with the Woolcock Institute in Viet Nam, the University of Sydney extends its dedication and investment to fostering innovation, strengthening partnerships in the country, and driving positive change through the new institute.

The institute aims to collaborate closely with academic organisations and researchers, improving in-country scientific capacity, and contributing to the regions economic and social development. Throughout the journey, each party will assign research experts to directly participate in the project for collaborative implementation. This form of co-operation is assessed to be highly effective, benefitting all collaborators while also enhancing Viet Nam's scientific research capabilities.

Professor Nguyen Thu Anh, Executive Director and Head of Research, the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute, said: The University of Sydney Vietnam Institute has enormous potential to drive collaboration, innovation, and positive impact in Viet Nam and beyond. We are committed to enhancing global engagement, research excellence, and societal impact. We look forward to collaborating with domestic and international organisations and individuals to build a robust platform that enhances multidisciplinary research capacity and improves the quality of life for local and global communities.

The establishment of the Institute marks a significant milestone in enhancing scientific research and innovation capabilities in Viet Nam, as the institute is one of the first foreign-invested social enterprises operating in the field of science and technology, with its headquarters located in HCM City and two offices in Ha Noi and Can Tho.

Professor Emma Johnston, Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, the University of Sydney, stated: The University of Sydney is extremely proud to launch the institute, which honours our commitment to research and engagement in Viet Nam. It builds on a long history of collaboration with Vietnamese researchers, students, industry, and government departments.

As our flagship research initiative in Viet Nam it will support current and future leaders, and be a hub for advanced research and innovative ideas, continuing to deepen the engagement between the university and Viet Nam, she said.

Within the framework of the event was the Sydney Viet Nam Innovation Symposium, which brings together university leaders, researchers, and scholars from both Sydney and Viet Nam to discuss and share experience from decades of collaboration, aiming to strengthen research and innovation partnerships.  VNS
Recent studies reveal that approximately two-thirds of Vietnamese companies are already looking to leverage digital recruitment tools, AI, and online training platforms to gain a competitive edge in talent acquisition and development.

Ivan Loo, associate director, Talentvis

The statistics speak volumes about the transformative power of digitalisation in the workplace. Companies that embrace these technologies experience significant benefits, from improved efficiency and cost savings to enhanced candidate experiences and better talent retention rates. In todays fast-paced business landscape, staying ahead of the curve is crucial, and adopting digital recruitment and employee management solutions is key to remaining competitive.

However, despite this wave of digital adoption, nearly one-third of Vietnamese companies are falling behind on modern recruitment tools and processes. These companies risk being left behind in the competitive talent landscape, as they cling to outdated recruitment methods and manual human resources processes. Ultimately, our findings suggest that failure to adapt to the new wave of digitalisation could result in inefficiencies, missed opportunities, and difficulties in attracting top talent.

Fortunately, there is a wide variety of digital tools and services available to help Vietnamese companies modernise their recruitment and employee management practices to stay at par with the market. For example, integrated HR platforms provide end-to-end solutions for managing HR processes, from recruitment to employee development. By centralising data and automating tasks, they enable companies to improve efficiency and decision-making.

Consultancy firms specialising in executive search can also help companies identify and recruit top-tier talent for leadership positions. Through targeted search strategies and rigorous candidate assessment, these services ensure companies find the right leaders to drive organisational success. Employee training and development are also critical for maintaining a skilled workforce. Digital learning platforms offer flexible and interactive training programmes that empower employees to learn at their own pace, anytime, anywhere.

Why should Vietnamese companies embrace digitalisation? Doing so in recruitment and employee management offers numerous benefits for Vietnamese companies.

Firstly, embracing digitalisation equips Vietnamese companies with tools that automate repetitive HR tasks, such as resume screening and scheduling interviews. This automation saves time and also minimises the likelihood of errors, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently.

Secondly, digitalisation creates a conducive work environment where employees have access to real-time data and streamlined workflows. This enables them to complete tasks more accurately.

Moreover, digital collaboration tools enable seamless communication among team members, regardless of their physical location. As a result, projects can progress smoothly, deadlines can be met more consistently, and the company can maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Next, digital recruitment tools revolutionise the hiring process, where jobseekers can easily search for open positions, submit applications online, and track the progress of their applications in real time. Furthermore, digital onboarding platforms streamline the transition for new hires, providing them with all the necessary information and resources they need to succeed in their roles. By prioritising the candidate experience, companies can enhance their reputation as an employer of choice and draw in top talent in the industry.

Along with that, investing in digital learning and development platforms demonstrates a commitment to employee growth and career advancement. By offering access to training courses, webinars, and other educational resources, companies empower their workforce to acquire new skills and stay relevant in an ever-evolving business landscape. This not only increases employee satisfaction but also reduces the likelihood of turnover, as employees are more likely to remain loyal to a company that invests in their professional development. Additionally, digital platforms nowadays can curate courses depending on the needs of the firm, further enabling these companies to pursue opportunities that benefit their market.

In the era of digital transformation, Vietnamese companies must embrace the new wave of digitalisation to remain competitive and drive sustainable growth. By leveraging modern recruitment tools and digital HR solutions, companies can optimise their processes, attract top talent, and position themselves for success in the digital age.

Demystifying the process of digital transformation Many organisations grapple with the concept of digital transformation and the path to successfully executing an initiative. Shashi J, partner of Consulting at EY Consulting Vietnam JSC, talked with VIRs Hoang Mai about how businesses can achieve a successful outcome.

Fund tweaks to help SME innovation While some businesses are ready to innovate alongside the digital transformation, many admit they do not know where to start and where to find support channels.
Gene Solutions, founded and headquartered in Vietnam, has a strong lab partnership network in ASEAN markets such Singapore, the Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

The social loan, HSBCs first for a Vietnamese corporate group and in the form of a revolving credit facility, is expected to support Gene Solutions with their capital needs, technology upgrades, new product launch, and expansion in the region. These collectively aim to enhance the accessibility to and affordability of essential healthcare services across Southeast Asia, particularly in early risk detection, non-invasive prenatal testing, and cancer screening and diagnosis.

The loan was provided via HSBC Singapores groundbreaking $200 million New Economy Fund, designed to empower new economy business growth and innovation in Southeast Asia. Gene Solutions is the first venture-backed startup from Vietnam to achieve the funds financing.

Ahmed Yeganeh, head of Wholesale Banking, HSBC Vietnam, said, "We are pleased that this cooperation will help improve Vietnam and the regions prenatal testing and cancer diagnosis capabilities, and allow more people access to affordable and innovative testing. This partnership is also a testament to HSBCs focus on sustainability and supporting the new economy in ASEAN. I hope this move inspires more businesses to invest in areas that bring more value to our society and the economy."

Before this social loan, early this year, Gene Solutions also received HSBC's support to set up their banking platforms, aiming to facilitate future capital raising needs and their expansion across the region.

Investment builds on biotech potential Vietnams biotech sector is gaining momentum as both foreign and local players step up investments, which are expected to realise the countrys ambition to become a top 10 regional biotech hub.

Gene Solutions secures $21 million to facilitate expansion in Southeast Asia Gene Solutions, a rapidly growing biotechnology firm in Vietnam, has wrapped up a $21-million Series B funding round.
China's Premier Li Qiang (L) shakes hands with Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at their meeting in Putrajaya, Malaysia, on June 19, 2024. (Photo: reuters.com)

Hanoi  Malaysia and China signed a slew of deals on June 19 renewing a five-year economic co-operation pact and allowing export of fresh durians, during a visit by Chinese Premier Li Qiang to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties, according to Reuters.

Li Qiang met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in the administrative capital of Putrajaya, following his arrival in Kuala Lumpur the same day. After the meeting, they witnessed the signing of more than a dozen pacts on co-operation in areas ranging from the digital economy to green development, housing, tourism, and communications, among others.

The new five-year pact that runs to 2028 provides for strategic collaboration in areas such as trade and investment, agriculture, manufacturing, infrastructure, and financial services.

China also agreed to allow the import of fresh durian from Malaysia after it meets sanitary requirements.

Malaysia, one of the world's biggest producers of the fruit, was previously allowed to ship only the whole frozen fruit and its products to China, with export valued at 1.19 billion MYR (253 million USD) in 2023.

China has been Malaysias largest trade partner since 2009, and the total trade was valued at 98.9 billion USD in 2023.

On the same day, Li Qiang is also expected to meet Malaysia's King, Sultan Ibrahim, and attend a ground-breaking ceremony at a construction site for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), part of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

The 665-km, 50-billion-MYR (11-billion USD) railway will link peninsular Malaysia's east and west coasts by the end of 2026.

Malaysia plans to build first smart AI container port In an effort to capture logistics demand due to changes in global supply chains, Malaysia is planning to build a new container port along the west coast of the Malay Peninsula facing the Strait of Malacca, which was one of the busiest sea route in the world.
Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong (right) receives President Vladimir Putin who is on a state visit to Vietnam in November 2013. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  During his 5th visit to Vietnam on June 19 and 20, President Vladimir Putin and a high-ranking delegation of Russia are scheduled to have talks and meetings with senior leaders of Vietnam and some other activities, thereby continuing to enhance and develop the two countries' relations.

The state visit, made at the invitation of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong, takes place at a time when the two nations are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Treaty on Principles of Friendly Relations between Vietnam and Russia this year and on the threshold of the 75th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties in 2025.

The two countries established a strategic partnership in 2001 and lifted it to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2012.

Over the past years, the bilateral relations have been developing well, quickly, and comprehensively. The mutual understanding and political trust have been enhanced through high-level visits and exchanges.

The CPV's cooperation with major political parties of Russia, including United Russia, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, and A Just Russia - For Truth, has also been growing strongly. Cooperation between the two governments and parliaments has also been promoted.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (second from the left, front row) and Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Vyacheslav Volodin on October 15 last year. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam was the first country to sign a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), of which Russia is a member. It is the largest trading partner of Russia in Southeast Asia while Russia is one of Vietnam's top five trading partners in Europe. The two sides are also implementing investment projects in each other's markets, including in the areas where Russia has strengths such as energy, science -technology, and education - training.

They have also carried out various forms of cooperation in defence and security.

Collaboration in the fields of education - training and science - technology continues to be maintained. There are about 5,000 Vietnamese students in Russia at present. Cultural, sport and tourism ties have also been actively promoted with annual culture days held rotationally.

Regarding locality-to-locality connections, 20 pairs of Vietnamese and Russian localities have formed twinned relationships. The 60,000-strong Vietnamese community in Russia are contributing much to the traditional friendship.

Le Hoai Trung, Secretary of the CPV Central Committee and Chairman of the CPV Central Committees Commission for External Relations, said that overall, the two countries' relationship has been developing comprehensively and strongly, bringing practical benefits to their people for the sake of peace, stability, and cooperation in the region and the world.

During the visit, senior leaders of Vietnam, President Putin, and the high-ranking delegation of Russia will discuss the situation in each country and international issues of mutual concern such as the maintenance of peace, cooperation and development; the settlement of disputes; and the implementation of important frameworks such as the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) towards a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC). They will also devise orientations to promote all-round partnerships in the coming time.

The visit reflects Vietnam's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, development, and diversification and multilateralisation of external relations, Trung added.

He went on to say that the visit also helps affirm Vietnam's position and prestige, along with the consistent foreign policy issued at the 13th National Party Congress. It also aims to promote the pioneering role of diplomacy in creating and maintaining peace and mobilising resources for national development.

The trip, which takes place shortly after President Putin begins his new term, demonstrates Russia and the leader's high evaluation of Vietnam's potential, position and prestige after 40 years of Doi moi (Renewal). It also shows the visiting leader's respect for the CPV's leadership and General Secretary Trong, who has significantly contributed to the bilateral ties.

With the two countries' traditional friendship, their people's strong support and the achievements obtained so far, President Putin's visit is an important occasion for elevating the bilateral relations, capitalise on both sides' potential and advantages, and set forth new cooperation orientations to realise their common goals, benefit the two nations' people, and actively contribute to peace, cooperation, and development in the region and the world at large.

Russia reinforces Vietnam connection Vietnam and Russia are further amplifying their trade and investment cooperation ties, with the Vietnam-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement functioning as a big driver.

Russia treasures comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam Russia attaches importance to the comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam, and all-around cooperation between the two countries, said Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Following the purchase, Sembcorp adds a combined 196MW of operational wind and solar assets to its portfolio.

Sembcorp will eventually also acquire a 73 per cent stake in the fourthGelex Group subsidiary, expected in the second half of 2024 subject to regulatory approvals, which operates a 49MW hydropower asset.

Upon completion, Sembcorps gross renewable energy capacity in Vietnam will be 455MW, while the groups gross renewable energy capacity will be 14.4GW.

The deal helps Sembcorp expand its presence in Vietnam's renewable energy market, while assisting Gelex's efforts to restructure its investment portfolio.

According to KPMG, Vietnams aggressive transition towards renewable energy, decentralisation of power generation, expanding infrastructure developments, and increasing energy demand to meet its economic growth will likely provide a dynamic and active merger and acquisition market in the coming years.

Singapore's Sembcorp spends $160 million to acquire majority stakes in Gelex's subsidiaries On November 10, Sembcorp Industries (Sembcorp) announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Sembcorp Solar Vietnam Pte Ltd, has reached an agreement to acquire majority interests ranging from 73 per cent to 100 per cent in various subsidiaries of Gelex Group Joint Stock Company (Gelex).

Sembcorp hands Phu My 3 over to EVN Singapores Sembcorp Industries, through its 67 per cent-owned joint venture Phu My 3 BOT Power Co. Ltd., handed over Phu My 3 Power Plant to Vietnam Electricity (EVN) on March 8.
Joel Gratcyk remembers the moment he finally broke.

He pulled his car off to the side of the road, tears streaming down his face. His newfound fatherhood was supposed to be one of the happiest times of his life. Instead, he was sinking deep into a heavy sadness while his infant son sat in the back seat.

It was all too much. The stress, the lack of sleep, the lingering fear that he wouldnt be a good parent.

I just knew, at that moment, I needed help, Gratcyk, 42, recalled. There was too much going on, and I just couldnt do it myself.

Hes not alone. An expanding volume of recent research has indicated that fathers, along with their female partners, can develop postpartum depression. Most experts estimate that around 10% of dads will experience the condition, while about 14% of moms will.

Now, a new University of Illinois at Chicago pilot study suggests that men should be routinely screened for PPD. Its part of a growing push to shift the dialogue surrounding mens mental health, offering a more robust stream of support for the entire family unit.

To me, it feels blindingly obvious that weve created these gendered care silos, and that has led to the exclusion of dads from this time, said Sam Wainwright, lead author of the study and an assistant professor of internal medicine and pediatrics at UIC.

Last week, ahead of Fathers Day, Gratcyk reflected on his sons, now 7 and 11. He hopes theyll feel comfortable sharing their emotions and being vulnerable as they grow older.

Having those kinds of conversations with my sons, and seeing them be able to be honest and open with me, gives me hope for the conversation to continue to evolve, Gratcyk said.

Until recent decades, PPD was only associated with women, who undergo more clear physical and hormonal changes during the postnatal period. Treatment for the monthslong depressive episode usually entails counseling or antidepressants. In August, the FDA also approved a first-of-its-kind oral medication to specifically treat PPD.

But men are far from immune to the emotional strain of becoming a new parent. Research has shown dads can even experience sagging testerone levels after the birth of their child, which is associated with mood changes. The onset of paternal PPD typically begins three to six months into the postpartum period.

PPD in dads is also a risk factor for a worsened quality of life and developmental and relational harms in families, according to the study.

Many times, fathers are feeling overwhelmed by the new experience, said Sheehan Fisher, a psychologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Theyre trying to figure out how to adjust, but they dont have a blueprint on how to be a father.

The study surveyed 24 new dads and found that 30% screened positive for PPD. Wainwright suspects that number is higher than average because 87% of participants identified as belonging to a racial or ethnic minority group, which may leave patients predisposed to mental health issues due to institutionalized economic disparities.

Regular screening of men at baby checkups could forestall the condition, Wainwright said.

To me, its about taking a stand and telling men that, You matter, your health matters, and not just because its some maternal health goal, he said.

Previously, Wainwrights work had centered primarily on womens health. The UI Two-Generation Clinic, which conducted the study, offers one-stop postpartum care for moms and pediatric checkups. It caters primarily to economically marginalized communities of color.

But clinic staff soon felt that dads were left behind, despite their well-being being vital to families overall health. Generally, the only conversations concerning an infants father at checkups surround domestic abuse, according to Wainwright.

The dads who participated in the study ranged from one to 15 months postpartum. Researchers screened the fathers with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale questionnaire, which is used with mothers.

Social workers also interviewed the dads, many of whom were young, first-time parents who feared that they lacked proper parenting skills. Most experienced significant lack of sleep and noted severe feelings of fatigue. Several said the demand of providing economic support conflicted with the desire to support the increased needs of the mom and the baby.

Theyre really focused on making sure that shes OK, and therefore they actually tend to neglect their own well-being and their mental health, Fisher said.

Its a common phenomenon. Men are generally less likely to seek help for mental health issues, according to Amanda Atkins, a Chicago therapist certified in perinatal mental health. While she often works with moms with PPD, dads with the condition rarely seek treatment from her office. Stigmas surrounding mens health may serve as a deterrence, she said.

PPD is also thought to manifest differently in men, who are more likely to experience irritability and aggression. One study found that depressed dads may be less likely to read to their 1-year-old and more likely to spank them. Experts say the true number of fathers with PPD could be higher than 10% because of the differing symptoms.

I think if we can just normalize (PPD) more as a society, we will be more in tune to it, Atkins said.

Where can parents affordably raise a child from infancy to teenhood? Where can parents affordably raise a child from infancy to teenhood? Best metros for navigating early childhood expenses Top metros for raising school-age kids
People enjoying the beach ahead of the storms Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at East Beach in Galveston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer A red flag is photographed Tuesday, June 18, 2024 along Seawall Boulevard in Galveston. National Weather Service announced Southeast Texas will be affected by Potential Tropical Cyclone One. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Galveston Island resident Belinda Davis walks her dogs ahead of the storms Tuesday, June 18, 2024 along Seawall Boulevard in Galveston. National Weather Service announced Southeast Texas will be affected by Potential Tropical Cyclone One. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Galveston Island Beach Patrol life guard Laura Rodriguez tells swimmers to move farther from the no swimming zone on a red flag warning day Tuesday, June 18, 2024 along Seawall Boulevard in Galveston. National Weather Service announced Southeast Texas will be affected by Potential Tropical Cyclone One. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Catherine Deesing takes her son, Michael Deesing, 5, to play in the water ahead of the storms Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at East Beach in Galveston. The Oklahoma family came to Galveston for a vacation. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Brothers Lincoln, from left, Hank and Ace, of Oklahoma, enjoy surfing during their family vacation ahead of the storms Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at East Beach in Galveston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Choppy waves are photographed ahead of the storms Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at East Beach in Galveston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

The developing storm in the Gulf of Mexico has caused officials to close some beaches along the Upper Texas Coast.

On its Facebook page, Brazoria County announced that county beaches would be closed starting at 5 p.m. Tuesday because of elevated tides and dangerous waves. Surfside Beach has also closed access to its beach, according to The Facts of Brazoria County newspaper.

The Texas City Dike closed at 7 p.m., according to Texas City officials.

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THE FORECAST: Houston removed from flood watch as forecast rain totals shrink

Parks in Harris County's Precinct 2, which includes Sylvan Beach near La Porte, were closed beginning at noon Tuesday. In a Facebook post, Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia's office said the parks would reopen Thursday.

In Galveston, officials said city beaches weren't closed, but amenities had been removed and closed at Stewart Beach and East Beach, and life guard towers had been removed from Seawall beaches. Though the city's Park Board of Trustees has stopped charging for parking at the popular beaches, accessing them might be limited by high tides and flooding.

Jamaica Beach closed its beach on Tuesday afternoon due to high tides. No reopening plan has been announced.

The bay side of Galveston Island State Park was closed at 5 p.m. Tuesday with plans to reopen Friday. There has been no announced closures on the beach side of the park. In a post Tuesday afternoon, the park said it was expecting a storm surge of up to 4 feet.

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No closures have been announced at Sea Rim State Park near Sabine Pass.
IOWA CITY  Benjamin Eastman of Cedar Falls is one of six students at the University of Iowa who recently rode bicycles across the state of Iowa. The excursion was led by Steve McGuire, a professor in the department of art and art history who has been teaching students for the past 13 years how to build their own bike.

According to a news release from the University of Iowa, McGuire and the students rode their bikes on gravel roads and bike trails. Six of the eight participants rode bikes they built in McGuires bike-building class. Eastman did.

The bikepacking trip spanned nearly 500 miles over seven days. The group departed from Council Bluffs on June 1. From there they biked to Atlantic, then Adel, Marshalltown, Evansdale, and Solon before the journey was completed in Davenport. Three of the pieces of the trek covered approximately 75 miles; the greatest distance traveled in a single day was the 100 or so miles between Marshalltown and Adel.

Before our departure, I was looking forward to actually bikepacking for the first time. I like the idea of methodically packing and spending a string of days on tour from one place to the next, said Eastman, who was a teaching assistant in McGuires class this past year and will be again next fall as he continues his graduate studies with an eye on graduating next spring.

Post trip, I found that it was this concept of tour that I really enjoyed and will remember. It was cool to spend time in small Iowan towns that I had never known of previously. We all became really close as a group and worked well as a team, too, which made the trip fluid.

I really want students to have the experience of meeting challenges in the outdoors and a sense of accomplishment having designed, then built, and then rode their bike 500 miles across Iowa, McGuire said prior to departure.

McGuire said he hoped the trip would create a route that people outside the university could use on their own bikepacking trips.

Hopefully, folks might see riding this route as a destination, a way to explore Iowa by bicycle, McGuire said.

McGuire spends most of his free time biking. He has biked over 300,000 miles in his lifetime and spent nearly 250 days bikepacking. He has biked up and down the west coast and back to Iowa three times, and even across the world.

Last July, McGuire spent the month bike riding across Switzerland on a bike he built himself. The journey spanned 601 miles. In the early 2000s, McGuire biked across Iceland.

Each time I am energized by the experience when bikepacking, McGuire said. I always enjoy a sense of connection with the land, its gravel, dirt, sun, rain, freezing nights, the state of mind you get from bikepacking, and overcoming challenges you take into your daily life.

His design-build-ride curriculum combines creativity, artistry, and engineering, allowing students to gain new skills in craftmanship. The class is the top nationwide course for handmade bikes and has allowed more than 300 students to make their own bicycles, McGuire said.

The curriculum, comprised of four courses, is the place for art and engineering majors to meet as makers, he explained.

The idea of the course stems from McGuires love for biking and design, and he hopes he can pass on that same passion to his students.

States that recorded the biggest increase in homelessness last year States that recorded the biggest increase in homelessness last year How the homeless population has changed since 2007 #13. New Jersey #12. Vermont #10. Kentucky #9. Massachusetts #7. North Dakota #6. Illinois #4. Colorado #3. New York #1. New Hampshire
Galveston Island resident Belinda Davis walks her dogs ahead of the storms Tuesday, June 18, 2024 along Seawall Boulevard in Galveston. National Weather Service announced Southeast Texas will be affected by Potential Tropical Cyclone One. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Galveston ISD will be closed Thursday due to the continued threat of tidal flooding, the district said, as beaches in the region saw dangerous conditions and high tides on Wednesday. Galveston ISD facilities and maintenance staff will be required to report to work.

Brazosport ISD will resume district operations Thursday according to a Wednesday afternoon social media post, but Surfside area students' absences will be excused. Parts of the Brazoria County city Surfside Beach were under as much as 4 feet of water Wednesday afternoon due to storm surge from Tropical Storm Alberto.

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Texas City ISD said it expected to resume summer operations Thursday.

"We are hearing from officials that the flood warnings will be lifted in the morning so roads should be clear for all of our camps and summer programs to take place. If something changes, we will let you know," according to a Wednesday afternoon social media post. "Otherwise, TCISD resumes summer operations tomorrow, June 20th. Please continue to take caution as you drive on wet roads."

The University of Houston said Monday that it is monitoring the weather this week. Alerts will be sent out through its emergency notification system.

STORM INFO: What you should know about the potential tropical cyclone in the Gulf

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Two employees of the U.S. Agriculture Department were assaulted and temporarily held by assailants in the Mexican state of Michoacan, prompting the U.S. government to suspend inspections of avocado and mango shipments, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico said Tuesday.

Ambassador Ken Salazar said in a statement that the assault occurred while the employees were inspecting avocados in Michoacan. He said they were no longer being held.

U.S. officials had confirmed the pause in inspections Monday citing security concerns.

The employees work for the U.S. Department of Agricultures Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Because the United States also grows avocados, U.S. inspectors work in Mexico to ensure exported avocados dont carry diseases that could hurt U.S. crops.

To guarantee the safety of our agricultural inspection teams, APHIS has suspended the avocado and mango inspections in Michoacan until these security problems have been resolved, Salazar said.

Michoacan is Mexicos biggest exporter of avocados.

Michoacan Gov. Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla told Mexico's Radio Formula Tuesday that the inspectors had been stopped in a protest by residents of Aranza in western Michoacan on June 14. He downplayed the situation, suggesting they were never at risk. He said that he got in touch with the U.S. Embassy the following day and that state forces were providing security for the state's avocado producers and packers.

I hope we have good news in the coming hours, he said, referring to a potential resumption of inspections.

Inspections in other Mexican states are not affected, Salazar said.

Mexicos Producers and Packers Association said in a statement Tuesday that it was working closely with government officials from Mexico and the United States to resume avocado exports from Michoacan.

It said the incident that spurred the suspension was unconnected to the avocado industry.

Many avocado growers in Michoacan say drug gangs threaten them or their family members with kidnapping or death unless they pay protection money, sometimes amounting to thousands of dollars per acre.

There have also been reports of organized crime bringing avocados grown in other states not approved for export and trying to get them through U.S. inspections.

In February 2022, the U.S. government suspended inspections of Mexican avocados until further notice after a U.S. plant safety inspector in Michoacan received a threatening message. The halt was lifted after about a week.

Later that year, Jalisco became the second Mexican state authorized to export avocados to the U.S.

The new pause in inspections wont block shipments of Mexican avocados to the United States, because Jalisco is now an exporter and there are a lot of Michoacan avocados already in transit.

Salazar said he would travel to Michoacan next week to meet with Bedolla and the producers and packers association.

(Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.)
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) speaks with Elliston Berry, a victim of deepfake image abuse, and her mother Anna McAdams following a news conference to unveil the Take It Down Act to protect victims against non-consensual intimate image abuse, on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, DC. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

Volleyball practice. Bible study. The English essay due next week. These are the things that once occupied 14-year-old Elliston Berrys mind.

Then came Ellis rude awakening. One fall morning last year at her home outside of Fort Worth, she woke up to a flurry of missed calls and texts from her friends that sent her heart racing: Had she seen the nude photo of her circulating on Snapchat?

Ellis had never taken a naked photo of herself, much less sent one. But that didnt matter.

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A benign cruise photo she had posted on her private Instagram had been enough for a classmate to feed into a nudification tool  an app that, armed with artificial intelligence, can strip a persons clothes and create a realistic explicit image in seconds. With the same ease, the classmate, a 15-year-old boy, allegedly created several Snapchat accounts to befriend classmates and then bombarded them with fake nudes of Ellis and six of her friends.

On Oct. 7, 2023 our lives were forever changed, Anna McAdams, Ellis mom, tearfully testified to the Texas Senate Committee on Criminal Justice earlier this month. My daughters innocence was shattered and her eyes were opened to the reality of how cruel a person can be.

As if parents didnt have enough to worry about, now its malicious deepfakes  videos, photos or audio digitally altered with AI. While often associated with fake photos and videos aimed at candidates vying for public office, more than 95% of deepfakes online are pornographic and 99% target women or girls. Very few are published with consent.

More often than not, deepfake porn targets celebrities, including Taylor Swift and, more recently, Houstons own Megan Thee Stallion. Federal and state laws failed these celebrities, and theyve failed to protect children, who have far less power, from being traumatized by this technology.

Last session, the Legislature passed at least three bills addressing the issue, including House Bill 2700, which expanded the definition of child pornography to encompass visual material that uses an actual childs image, including content created using AI. But the law doesnt go far enough and were glad to see that Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has charged senators with closing loopholes.

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While Ellis worries whether, each time she applies to college or to a job, these nude photos will come back to haunt her, the classmate who targeted her and her friends will never have to worry about a permanent record.

When her family reached out to the school and the sheriffs office for help, at first they were told that, because the cyberbully was a minor, they couldnt reveal his identity. It wasnt until Anna McAdams filed a Title IX complaint that they found out who he was.

Even then, the school was ill-equipped and law enforcement didnt know what to do, McAdams testified. She says the 15-year-old boy received in-school suspension, and then his parents transferred him to another school. The sheriffs office charged him with distribution of harmful material to a minor, a Class A misdemeanor, but he was let off on probation, according to McAdams.

At 18, his case will be expunged, she said. No one will ever know what he did.

The case has inspired U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, a ranking member of the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, to introduce a bipartisan bill on Tuesday this week called the TAKE IT DOWN Act. The bill treats the online world as interstate commerce, making it a criminal offense to publish or threaten to publish nonconsensual intimate images depicting real people, including computer-generated images, on social media. Cruzs office explained that the penalty  three years of jail time if the victim is a minor or two years if theyre an adult  would apply to both adults and minors who commit the offense.

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The bill, if passed, would send a more powerful warning to kids considering creating or publishing nonconsensual deepfakes. More importantly, it will also give victims a message of hope  a way out from having those images follow them in perpetuity.

Cruz, who is also among the 70 senators co-sponsoring a comprehensive reform bill called the Kids Online Safety Act, included in the new bill a provision requiring websites to take down those nonconsensual images within 48 hours of a victim requesting it. For McAdams, persuading Snapchat to remove the images had been like screaming into a void.

Right now, if you happen to be a big, famous star like Taylor Swift, you can get the images pulled down, Cruz told the editorial board this week. But if youre just a Texas teenager, Big Techs answer is typically go jump in a lake.

One phone call from Cruzs office was all it took for Snapchat to finally scrub the photos last week, but it shouldnt take congressional pressure for victims to get relief from an explicit photo published without their say.

Parents dont have to wait for regulations to catch up to technology to get informed about the issue and start sounding the alarm in local school communities. Invite your kids to a frank conversation about deepfakes. Extend that conversation to your school board. McAdams told us her daughters high school still doesnt have a specific AI deepfake policy in place, despite at least three incidents. We understand that schools are often too underresourced and overwhelmed by the sheer volume of potential online harms to pay sufficient attention to cases of AI misuse.

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But urge your schools to heed Ellis warning: It can happen to anyone. Using something as benign as a LinkedIn headshot, a bad actor can upend your life. Without stronger laws, theres nothing to stop him.
Dairy farmers brought Humboldt Countys tiny Loleta to lifethen the industrys decline turned it into a ghost town more than 100 years later.

But now, a pair of fabulously gay farmers are bringing the nearly forgotten village back from the dead. The magical engine driving its resurgence? Ice cream. Lots and lots of ice cream.

To their almost 200,000 combined followers on TikTok and Instagram , the Foggy Bottoms Boys are the champions of regenerative and sustainable foodways, slinging nuggets of wisdom with humor, insight, and panache. At home in Loleta, Cody and Thomas Nicholson Stratton (with some assistance from their son, the "tiny farmer") are an agricultural power couple who are helping to redefine the image of Californias farmers and ranchers.

Cody and Thomas Nicholson Stratton, the Foggy Bottoms Boys, at their cow-to-cone ice cream shop, Jersey Scoops. (Courtesy of @foggybottomsboys)

For the most part, the farming and ranching community is fairly supportive of us, and were definitely seeing more and more people from the LGBTQ+ communities taking part, says Cody.

A lot of farmers and ranchers place value on contribution: What are you bringing to the industry, to the community. The fact that were engaged, we earn our spot because were contributing.

It's been 10 years since the Nicholson Strattons began engaging in Loletas farming community together. For Cody, it was a homecoming. Hes the sixth generation to work the farm first settled by his great-great-grandfather.

The Nicholsons were early adopters of organic, says Cody, focusing on soil health, plant life communities, wildlife habitat, and sustainable agriculture. But until Thomas arrival, producing milk destined for Rumiano Cheese Company, Californias oldest family-owned cheesemaker, was the primary game of their certified humane Jersey dairy.

With his outsider perspective and a background in business administration, marketing, and non-profit food systems education, Thomas pushed the farms boundaries, helping them to develop new operations to complement and honor its heritage. Diversifying is kind of a necessity for farms and family farms now, he says.

Sustainably raising sheep for wool was their first project, creating fiber products like yarn, dryer balls, and one-of-a-kind throws. Then came free range eggs courtesy of a brood of hens that rotate around the ranch alongside the sheep in self-sustaining chick trailers. Grass fed beef and lamb sold by the cut and as whole-animal shares followed, as well as a handful of fun farm-themed merchall available online.

Thomas Nicholson Stratton with the Tiny Farmer and a resident of the farm. (Courtesy of Foggy Bottoms Boys)

As they grew, social media helped them to share their unique role in the food system, a connection not many of us have in an era of industrialized, supermarket-ready agriculture. Thats a beautiful part for us, says Thomas. Knowing the power of being able to tell a story and to find that affinity among human-kind.

Jersey Scoops , their cow-to-cone ice cream shop on Loletas Main Street, is one more tool in the familys agricultural Swiss army knife. All the ice cream is made in house using about 100 gallons of milk from our cows, says Cody. New flavorsWookie Cookie (Girl Scout thin mints in chocolate ice cream) in homage to Star Wars, Danish butter cookie to honor Codys family origins, and bubblegum in celebration of Pridearrive weekly. Goats milk ice cream will also make its debut this summer.

As an ambassador of joy, their ice cream is helping the Foggy Bottoms Boys to continue the work of overcoming the expectations and negative assumptions of LGBTQ+ individuals in the farming and ranching community.

Jersey Scoops is helping to bring the town of Loleta back to life. (Courtesy of Foggy Bottoms Boys)

Its not uncommon to see other dairymen coming into the ice cream shop every day or telling us the flavors they want us to start making or specials we should name after them, says Cody. We find those pockets of acceptance sometimes in areas that we least expect.

Diversification isnt just the key to sustainable food production, but to the entire food system, Cody continues. Bringing people to the table with different backgrounds doesnt just make it more beautiful, but more resilient.

Thomas agrees. For me, theres an aspect of making sure people know they have a space in agriculture. Its not easy, but the LGBTQ+ individuals engage in agricultural spaces, the more they will quell the fear of those whove had few opportunities to interact with people with diverse identities.

// Jersey Scoops, 348 Main St. (Loleta), foggybottomsboys.com
Chef Andrew Zimmern, 62, is serving up some sustainable ideas. The four-time James Beard Award winner and TV personality collaborated with writer-producer David E. Kelley to create a three-part docuseries, Hope in the Water, debuting June 19 on PBS. The series spotlights new food technologies that can help feed the planet while also saving threatened oceans and waterways, and it features innovators, aqua farmers and fishers who are working toward a sustainable future. AARP spoke to Zimmern about the show, and he also shares one of his favorite meals to make, his go-to indulgences and the surprising foods he loves to buy at gas stations.



This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

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What did you learn while making Hope in the Water?

What surprised me is how many brilliant, solutions-minded people there are around the world who are trying to preserve their way of life by working on and in the water. The premise of the series  and what I think is most important  is that you dont solve the problem by shutting down sustainable economies on the water. You solve the problems by creating solutions so that we can harvest out of our oceans while at the same time protecting them.

What solutions stood out to you?

Ill give you a great example. You probably learned the same thing in eighth grade that I did  which is when we studied medieval history: [that] the farmers started rotating crops. That was a medieval farming idea that took root in Europe a thousand years ago, and it proved that the soil was healthier if you kept rotating your fields. In the water space, we call those no-take zones. We need more no-take zones. We need to rotate around the world what fish were taking and when and where. There are people pushing for this in various countries.

Has your attitude toward food changed as youve aged?

Very much so. Im a product  as are all human beings  of our time. And my parents maybe were a little more activist than others, and I was just sensitized maybe to issues at a young age. But 100 years ago, who [cared] about sustainability? Sustain a what? Everything is sustainable. Arent we going to have all of this good stuff in our world forever? Whats changed me is Ive realized that everything good disappears because we overuse it.

Do you have a family recipe thats important for you to pass on?

My grandmothers classic roast chicken with an onion pan gravy [see recipe, below]. Theres nothing better, and the whole family loves it. I make it 12 months a year, at least once a week.

Whats your go-to guilty food pleasure?

Culvers and Shake Shack. I think Culvers and Shake Shack have the best burgers. I get my cheeseburger, my fries and my malt. Gas station food, as Im driving around the country, is my guilty pleasure.
Roasting smores around the campfire, dark skies filled with millions of stars and days spent hiking through redwood forests or red rock canyons. These are the nostalgic images that motivate travelers to plan a visit to one of the 429 parks in the U.S. National Park System.

Those who want to spend as much time in nature as possible find that glamping offers the best elements of camping, plus an actual bed to sleep in at night. Nearly 8 million people went glamping in the U.S. in 2023, according to a report by camping platform The Dyrt, and it has become a favorite for outdoor lovers of all ages.

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Among campers 50-plus, 13 percent tried glamping for the first time in 2023, and 32 percent were interested in trying glamping in 2024, according to Kampgrounds of America.

It is easy to see why this glamorous camping style appeals to older travelers. You dont need all the gear that camping requires, and glamping facilities provide guided hikes and other ways to make visiting a national park easy. In addition, these properties appeal to multigenerational groups traveling together, so grandparents can share outdoor experiences with their grandkids.

Here are seven glamping properties near national parks, with an array of Airstreams, tree houses, geodesic domes, Conestoga wagons and cabins for your next outdoor adventure.

At Under Canvas Zion, you can visit the main lobby and tent grounds for a range of complimentary activities. Credit: Bailey Made

Under Canvas Zion, Virgin, Utah

Imagine sleeping under the stars, nestled in a luxurious safari-inspired tent at Under Canvas Zion. Complete with king-size beds, sumptuous linens and cozy in-tent wood-burning fireplaces, these accommodations are glamping at its finest.

Under Canvas Zion, recently certified as a DarkSky resort, schedules a range of complimentary activities to ignite your sense of adventure. Theres something for everyone, from astronomy talks and star-bathing meditations to full-moon hikes and nightly smores. For a truly special experience, reserve one of the Stargazer tents, with a sky-viewing window directly above the bed.

Guests who want to visit Zion National Park can book private or group tours to the Narrows or Angels Landing, which include transportation, an expert guide and lunch. Prices at Under Canvas Zion start at $279 per night.
Opal Lee, second from right, has a shaded escort as she walks down Evans Avenue headed for downtown Fort Worth, Texas, Saturday, June 19, 2021. For the first time since her dream of Juneteenth being made a national holiday became reality, Lee led a 2.5 mile caravan from Historic Southside to the Tarrant County Courthouse in downtown Fort Worth. Earlier in the week, the civil rights icon stood by President Joe Biden as he signed a law making Juneteenth a federal holiday. At 94 years old, Lee marked Juneteenth by speaking with supporters at the historic courthouse after cooling down from the hot walk. (Tom Fox/The Dallas Morning News via AP) Tom Fox/Associated Press

Opal Lee, the grandmother of Juneteenth from Fort Worth, led walks across America well into her 90s in her campaign to make this day a national holiday. She talked with a member of the editorial board in May 2021 just weeks before standing triumphantly next to President Joe Biden as he signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. When asked why Juneteenth celebrations matter, she began with a moment of levity in recalling the traditional food  peach cobbler, barbecue chicken, potato salad, black eyed peas, watermelon. She then imagined not just one day to exalt freedom  that highest of American values  but 16 days of conviviality starting June 19 straight through July 4. It is in that spirit that we reproduce below General Order No. 3 issued by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger on this day 159 years ago. Union forces, including Black soldiers, had arrived in Galveston to finally enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, which we also print below. These historic documents should be read in part because they were imperfect. Juneteenth was a step toward equality, and also a promise, which our country is still working to achieve. On this day, as with many of our holidays, were celebrating not just the events that took place but how they contribute to Americas long, intermittent march toward a more perfect union.

General Order No. 3, issued by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, June 19, 1865

The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.

A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America, January 1, 1863

Whereas, on the twenty-second day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two, a proclamation was issued by the President of the United States, containing, among other things, the following, to wit:

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That on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all persons held as slaves within any State or designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free; and the Executive Government of the United States, including the military and naval authority thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, and will do no act or acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom.

That the Executive will, on the first day of January aforesaid, by proclamation, designate the States and parts of States, if any, in which the people thereof, respectively, shall then be in rebellion against the United States; and the fact that any State, or the people thereof, shall on that day be, in good faith, represented in the Congress of the United States by members chosen thereto at elections wherein a majority of the qualified voters of such State shall have participated, shall, in the absence of strong countervailing testimony, be deemed conclusive evidence that such State, and the people thereof, are not then in rebellion against the United States.

Now, therefore I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, by virtue of the power in me vested as Commander-in-Chief, of the Army and Navy of the United States in time of actual armed rebellion against the authority and government of the United States, and as a fit and necessary war measure for suppressing said rebellion, do, on this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and in accordance with my purpose so to do publicly proclaimed for the full period of one hundred days, from the day first above mentioned, order and designate as the States and parts of States wherein the people thereof respectively, are this day in rebellion against the United States, the following, to wit:

Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, (except the Parishes of St. Bernard, Plaquemines, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. James Ascension, Assumption, Terrebonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, St. Martin, and Orleans, including the City of New Orleans) Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia, (except the forty-eight counties designated as West Virginia, and also the counties of Berkley, Accomac, Northampton, Elizabeth City, York, Princess Ann, and Norfolk, including the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth), and which excepted parts, are for the present, left precisely as if this proclamation were not issued.

And by virtue of the power, and for the purpose aforesaid, I do order and declare that all persons held as slaves within said designated States, and parts of States, are, and henceforward shall be free; and that the Executive government of the United States, including the military and naval authorities thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons.

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And I hereby enjoin upon the people so declared to be free to abstain from all violence, unless in necessary self-defence; and I recommend to them that, in all cases when allowed, they labor faithfully for reasonable wages.

And I further declare and make known, that such persons of suitable condition, will be received into the armed service of the United States to garrison forts, positions, stations, and other places, and to man vessels of all sorts in said service.

And upon this act, sincerely believed to be an act of justice, warranted by the Constitution, upon military necessity, I invoke the considerate judgment of mankind, and the gracious favor of Almighty God.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington, this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the eighty-seventh.

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By the President: Abraham Lincoln
Tamboran's Beetaloo Basin development awarded Major Project Status by the Northern Territory Government



Tamboran's Beetaloo project awarded Major Project Status

Sydney, June 19, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Tamboran Resources Corporation's ( ASX:TBN ) ( TBNNY:OTCMKTS ) development of the Beetaloo Basin has been awarded Major Project Status by the Northern Territory Government (NTG).



Major Project Status provides Tamboran with significant benefits, including;



- NT Government acknowledgement of the Beetaloo Basin's significance to the Territory's economic prosperity,



- continuing support for Tamboran as it progresses its local development plans in the Beetaloo Basin, with first gas being supplied to Territorians ahead of the target East Coast domestic gas and LNG export projects,



- regulatory approval process mapping, and



- a dedicated project case manager to assist with coordinated and streamlined communications within Government.



The recognition of Major Project Status demonstrates the NTG's support for Tamboran's integrated development of the Beetaloo Basin that aims to provide energy security and significant job opportunities for the people of the Northern Territory.



Tamboran Resources Corporation Managing Director and CEO, Joel Riddle, said:



"Recognition of Major Project Status demonstrates NTG's support for the development of the Beetaloo Basin. It also recognizes Tamboran's commitment to work closely with the Government to ensure the benefits of our development are delivered to all stakeholders within the Territory.



"We look forward to working closely with the Government in ensuring our development plays a major role in achieving the NTG's long-term economic plan, including the potential for the Beetaloo Basin to support 13,000 jobs and increase economic activity by A$17 billion by 2040.



"The Beetaloo Basin is an economically significant project for the Northern Territory, which is expected to deliver energy security and job opportunities to Territorians, and millions of dollars in royalties to Native Title Holders and the NTG for decades to come."





About Tamboran Resources Corporation





Tamboran Resources Corporation (ASX:TBN) is a natural gas company that intends to play a constructive role in the global energy transition towards a lower carbon future by developing low CO2 unconventional natural gas resources in the Beetaloo Sub-basin within the Greater McArthur Basin in the Northern Territory of Australia. Tamboran's key assets are a 25% working interest in EP 161 and a 100% working interest in EP 136, EP 143 and EP(A) 197 which are located in the Beetaloo Sub-basin.

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Modern cattle farming boosts rural incomes in NW China's Xinjiang

People's Daily Online) 09:48, June 19, 2024

Photo shows an aerial view of a modern cattle breeding base in Kokdala city, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Xinyang)

Many cattle farmers and local workers in Kokdala city, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, have enjoyed significantly increased incomes and improved livelihoods thanks to a cooperative modern cattle breeding operation.

Xinjiang Chuangjin Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Co., Ltd., a leading cattle producer in China, operates over 10 modern breeding farms and facilities for feed production, organic fertilizers, dairy products and agricultural machinery, as well as slaughterhouses and packing houses.

At one of the company's breeding bases, more than 10,000 cattle of various breeds enjoy spacious, well-maintained facilities. Healthy adult cattle bask in the sunlight and graze leisurely, while pregnant cows are provided with private, comfortable "villas." Newborn calves receive attentive care in cozy, dedicated sheds.

The company has invested 2 billion yuan ($280 million) to establish breeding facilities covering a combined area of 4,000 mu (267 hectares).

Last year, the company sold over 30,000 cattle to regions across the country, including Shanghai Municipality, Guangdong, Jiangsu, Hunan, Sichuan provinces, and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Photo shows a cattle farm in Kokdala city, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Xinyang)

Chuangjin's feed crop contracts span nearly 100,000 mu of land each year, providing a significant boost to the incomes of local farmers who cultivate these crops, according to Li Jiongchun, an executive of the company.

To uplift rural livelihoods, the company has adopted a cooperative mechanism that promotes close cooperation among leading companies, professional cooperatives, and farmer households. This integrated approach enables unified practices across cattle purchasing, vaccination, insurance, breed improvement, feed supply, husbandry standards, and marketing, effectively addressing production and sales challenges faced by farmers.

"We've established 41 professional cattle-raising cooperatives, involving over 20,000 cattle and 600 households, increasing the annual income of each farmer household by an average of 50,000 yuan," Li said.

The company has also improved the quality of life for its employees. Zhumakemin Tuohedasheng, a packaging worker at the company, said she and her husband have experienced significant changes in their lives since joining the company.

Several years ago, life was difficult for the couple, as they lacked stable jobs and were in debt by 50,000 yuan. Today, they enjoy a steady monthly income of 10,000 yuan.

"We've not only cleared our debts but also built a new house and bought a car. Life is so much better," Tuohedasheng said.

The couple exemplifies how stable employment at the company has enabled employees to increase their incomes and enhance their living standards.

Photo shows a cattle farm in Kokdala city, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Li Xinyang)

Li stated that the company plans to raise 100,000 feeder cattle and breed 15,000 high-quality cattle by 2025, aiming to achieve 3 billion yuan in sales revenue and further increase the incomes of 16,000 households.

"Working here makes me very happy. I've recommended many fellow villagers to our company, and I believe our lives will only become more prosperous," Tuohedasheng said.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Victoria Adesuyi tests mosquitoes Tuesday, June 11, 2024, collected from traps placed around Harris County for the presence of West Nile virus and St. Louis encephalitis virus in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

Less than a month after the first confirmed report, Harris County Public Health has logged 74 positive cases of the West Nile virus in area mosquitos.

Thats a big jump from last year, when the Mosquito and Vector Control Division reported 50 positive cases throughout the entire year.

The disease-carrying mosquitoes were reported in areas ranging from Braeswood to Tomball, according the county. No human cases have been reported, but the jump in positive tests in mosquitos confirms initial concerns from health officials that excessive rain and heat might lead to an outbreak of the virus.

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Dr. Max Vigilant, Harris Countys mosquito control director, said earlier in June that climate change and other factors could create ideal conditions for the disease to proliferate in the area.

Kamesha Owens, an epidemiologist with the Texas Department of Health tasked with monitoring West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses, said that its too early to tell whether the reported cases are part of a larger trend.

Were just now getting into peak mosquito season here in Texas, and there are a host of factors that can contribute to an increase in positive cases, Owens said. People tend to associate West Nile with rainfall and heat, but weve seen spikes during periods of excessive drought.

The West Nile virus is most commonly spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The most common symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, vomiting or diarrhea.

Owens said that West Nile is generally not fatal and the vast majority of cases are asymptomatic. She said this creates a challenge for health officials as only one-percent of those infected require treatment, meaning the virus often goes unreported.

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Basing projections off of mosquitoes that tested positive can be problematic as it is highly dependent on the number caught and tested in a particular area. Without knowing the exact number of traps set in previous years, its hard to tell whether or not these numbers are cause for alarm, Owens said.

This is a type of surveillance tool that tells us in public health that there is some level of transmission going on, Owens said. But it really depends from county to county. Seventy-four could be a lot for one area, but a drop in the bucket for another.

While it may be too early to tell whether or not Harris County is in danger of an outbreak of West Nile, Owens said residents should do what they can to limit the spread of the disease.

At the end of the day, its all about prevention, she said. We always recommend people take steps to eliminate standing water, wear bug spray and limit exposure to areas with excessive populations.
APL Apollo Tubes Limited (APL Apollo), one of Indias leading branded steel tube manufacturers in India, has recently launched a captivating TVC featuring Akshay Kumar, showcasing their innovative product, Roof Tuff  Color coated coils. The 60-second ad portrays Akshay Kumar in the role of The Tuff Hero, engaging in thrilling Parkour stunts, while showcasing the durability and strength of APL Apollos Roof Tuff.

In an exclusive interaction with Adgully, Charu Malhotra, Chief Brand Officer & Group Head Marketing, APL Apollo Tubes, speaks at length about the vision behind the new product launch, the new TVC featuring Akshay Kumar, insights into the agencies APL Apollo Tubes has collaborated with. Malhotra also mentions about the overall marketing strategies of APL Apollo, the strategies that APL Apollo employs to stay top-of-mind for them in the market, brands performance in the fiscal year 2024, and more.

Can you share when APL Apollo's Roof Tuff  Colour coated coils were introduced in India and how they have performed in the market since then?



APL Apollo's Roof Tuff  Colour Coated Coils were introduced in India in Mar 2023. Since their introduction, they have gained traction in the market due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to corrosion. These colour-coated coils offer superior protection against harsh weather conditions, making them suitable for roofing applications in diverse environments across India. Additionally, they come in a variety of colours, allowing customers to choose options that complement their architectural preferences. The Roof Tuff  Colour coated coils have performed well in the market.

What was the thought process behind associating Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar with APL Apollo's Roof Tuff? How does this celebrity association tie into the core campaign thought?



The thought behind roping in Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar as the brand ambassador revolves around portraying Roof Tuff as a symbol of strength, resilience, and reliability, mirroring the actor's own persona and values. His association with the product communicates a message of durability, stability, and trustworthiness, aligning with the key attributes of Roof Tuff. Additionally, Akshay Kumars image as a socially responsible celebrity may also tie into any campaign narratives focusing on the sustainability aspects of the product. As known to most, the actor is not only renowned for his acting prowess but also admired for his disciplined and patriotic persona, making him a relatable figure for a wide audience base. His association with the brand enhances its visibility and credibility, capitalizing on Akshay Kumar's mass appeal and trustworthiness among consumers. The actor serves to reinforce the brand's messaging, evoke positive emotions, and establish a deeper connection with consumers, ultimately driving brand recall and loyalty in the competitive roofing solutions market.

Could you walk us through the conceptualization of the captivating TVC featuring Akshay Kumar and how it aligns with the brand's overall marketing strategy?



The conceptualization of the captivating TVC featuring Akshay Kumar likely began with a thorough analysis of APL Apollo's brand identity, target audience, and marketing objectives. The TVC aligns with APL Apollo's brand identity, emphasizing attributes like strength, durability, reliability, and innovation associated with Roof Tuff. Akshay Kumar's persona as a disciplined, patriotic, and action-oriented individual mirrors these values, ensuring a seamless integration with the brand. The TVC's storyline, messaging, and visual elements are tailored to resonate with the brand's target audience, which likely includes homeowners, builders, architects, and contractors. It aims to capture their attention and engage them emotionally by highlighting the product's benefits in a compelling manner. The creative concept revolves around a captivating narrative that showcases the beautiful hypothetical city of Satranga where all houses are roofed with Roof Tuff sheets.

It features Akshay Kumar encountering various obstacles while chasing a thief to woo his ladylove. He triumphs over these obstacles with ease as the roofs on which he ends up chasing the thief are covered with strong Roof Tuff sheets, symbolizing the resilience and strength of Roof Tuff.

Overall, it leverages Akshay Kumar's star power to evoke emotions such as trust, reliability, and pride in the product. His on-screen presence and performance add credibility and relatability to the storyline, resonating with viewers on a deeper level.



Can you share insights into the agencies APL Apollo Tubes Ltd collaborated with, and what specific elements were included in the media mix to maximize the impact of this campaign?



APL Apollo Tubes Ltd collaborated with leading agencies to amplify the impact of their Roof Tuff campaign. This strategic partnership leveraged a comprehensive media mix to maximize reach and engagement. By utilizing both Above-the-Line (ATL) and Below-the-Line (BTL) marketing strategies, the campaign effectively targeted a wide range of audience segments.

Extensive use of social media platforms, search engine marketing, and display advertising targeted specific demographics and generated significant buzz. These digital tactics ensured that the campaign reached a tech-savvy audience, fostering online engagement and interaction. Advertisements in prominent industry magazines helped APL Apollo reach a wider audience and enhance credibility. This media-mix approach ensured that the campaign maintained visibility among all stakeholders and customers.

Engaging content and press releases distributed through various news outlets built brand awareness and highlighted Roof Tuffs unique features. This BTL strategy helped establish a strong narrative and connected the product with its intended audience on a more personal level. Collaborations with industry influencers and experts created authentic content and drove organic engagement. By leveraging the credibility and reach of these influencers, APL Apollo ensured that their message resonated with a broader, more engaged audience.



Did APL Apollo work closely with any agency on this project, and if so, what was the brief given to them?



Yes, we closely worked with Crayons Advertising Agency on this project. The brief was given to them to craft a story that subtly yet strongly brings out the beautiful aesthetics and the strength of the product while engaging the audience in an immersive narrative. We also wanted to capture the vivid colour of sheets we manufacture. We wanted to portray Akshay Kumar as "The Tuff Hero" who performs thrilling Parkour stunts across rooftops. These stunts showcased the resilience and ability of Roof Tuff to withstand extreme conditions.



Can you elaborate on the media mix utilized for promoting Roof Tuff and how it contributes to the overall marketing strategies of APL Apollo?



APL Apollo Tubes Ltd utilized a diverse media mix to promote Roof Tuff, effectively aligning with its overall marketing strategies. The campaign incorporated:

Digital Marketing: Leveraging social media platforms, search engine marketing, and targeted display ads to engage with specific demographics and generate online buzz.

Print Media: Strategic placements in leading newspapers and industry magazines to enhance visibility and credibility among a broader audience.

Broadcast Media: Television and radio commercials aired on popular channels and stations, ensuring widespread reach across various audience segments.

Public Relations: Press releases and engaging content distributed through news outlets to build brand awareness and highlight Roof Tuffs unique features.

Cinema Association : Roof Tuff advertisements were showcased in cinemas, targeting moviegoers and enhancing brand recall through captivating visual content during film screenings.

Film: Bade Miyan Chote Miyan Collaboration: It was a Genre Match as the high-octane action theme of "Bade Miyan Chote Miyan" aligns well with the Roof Tuff campaign's emphasis on strength and durability through Akshay Kumar'. Various Social Media Posts were aligned with a competition to engage the audience.

This comprehensive media mix not only maximized the campaigns reach but also reinforced APL Apollos brand presence, showcasing its commitment to innovation and quality in the construction industry.



Considering the involvement of people in the construction process, what strategies does APL Apollo employ to stay top-of-mind for them in the market?



APL Apollo employs several innovative strategies to maintain a strong brand recall. These strategies shift the company from a commodity-based marketing approach to a brand-driven one, emphasizing brand equity, awareness, and meaningful customer engagement. By building genuine and trustworthy connections with customers, APL Apollo ingrains sustainability into its brand identity, reflecting eco-friendly practices and reducing carbon emissions. The company combines traditional and new-age marketing channels, such as TV, digital, and print, to communicate the technical intricacies of the steel industry and enhance brand awareness.

APL Apollo enhances customer confidence by aligning with celebrated brand ambassadors. These partnerships create a strong connection between the industrial product and a broader audience, enhancing visibility and trust while humanizing the brand. Building trustworthy relationships with channel partners and influencers, such as fabricators, contractors, architects, and government officials, is central to APL Apollo's strategy. Targeted engagement programs help in connecting with these influencers, reinforcing the brand's presence in the market.

Recognizing the importance of a strong digital identity, APL Apollo creates informative video content to engage modern consumers and convey the complexities of the steel industry. Digital platforms are used to evoke new thoughts and ideas, holding transformative potential for the industry. Sustainability and innovation are central to APL Apollos approach. By actively participating in industry conversations and sharing insights, the company positions itself as a thought leader, inspiring change and pushing the boundaries of steel manufacturing.



How has APL Apollo Tubes Ltd performed in the fiscal year 2024, and what is the year-on-year growth rate? Could you also share insights into the competitive landscape and how APL Apollo's other products fare against competitors in the market?



APL Apollo Tubes Ltd reported robust financial performance, capturing approx. 55% of the market share among both organized and unorganized local players. This impressive growth is attributed to the company's strategic product diversification and expansion into new markets.

Product Performance: APL Apollo's other products, including hollow sections, pre-galvanized tubes, and colour-coated sheets, perform exceptionally well against competitors. Their commitment to innovation, stringent quality standards, and customer-centric approach have allowed these products to gain significant market share, reinforcing APL Apollos reputation as a leader in the steel tube and pipe industry.
Dentsu Group Inc. has announced the global expansion of its BX practice, supporting the business and growth transformation of clients. Dentsus BX offering, which has long been available in Japan, is one of the key Global Practices alongside Media, Creative, and Customer Experience Management (CXM). The global team consists of more than 400 consultants in locations around the world, delivering services including business strategy, sales transformation, culture transformation and sustainability strategy.

Yuichi Toyoda, Global Practice President - Business Transformation, dentsu, said, BX is a practice that has been offered by dentsu Japan for more than 10 years, helping clients transform their businesses, create new categories and drive competitiveness. Dentsus BX is a highly regarded consultancy offering that differs from conventional consulting model, because it combines dentsu's strengths in creativity, execution, and data & technology with a marketing perspective to address the challenges faced by our clients. These include stalled transformation initiatives, a need for more originality in strategy, or barriers to the development of new categories or revenue streams for growth. With our fully-fledged, international expansion, were looking forward to serving the needs of both existing and new clients.

Jean Lin, Global President - Global Practices, dentsu, commented, dentsus BX practice aims at creating new values, with a unique dentsu consultancy approach, to impact businesses, brands, and peoples lives. We are excited to support the transformation journey of clients internationally, to enhance our client promise, Innovating to Impact.

Dentsus BX offering

With its more than 120-year history as a leading advertising partner to the worlds biggest brands, dentsus people-centered business transformation offering is rooted in its deep understanding of human behavior and drivers. As an integrated growth partner to clients, dentsu now goes beyond advertising and marketing to truly guide the Growth Transformation of organizations wanting to disrupt their market, and even themselves. Dentsus BX offering focuses on providing people-centered transformation support in the three core areas:

Business transformation (business strategy, new business development, sales transformation, marketing transformation)

Corporate transformation (corporate culture transformation, human resources and organizational transformation)

Sustainability strategy

Structure and areas of expansion

Global expansion will begin with a focus on the U.S., UK&I, DACH, Northern Europe, China, Taiwan, and India, led by client demand. Under the leadership of Toyoda, dentsu has appointed leaders across Sustainability Strategy (Global), Americas, EMEA, and APAC, respectively. The BX teams formed in each market will serve as one location-free global team. In other markets where dentsu operates, these BX teams will work closely with local teams to provide services.
Hyatt Hotels today announced the launch of its #WellnessAtHyatt campaign to celebrate the International Yoga Week in India. Building on Hyatts purpose of care, the week-long campaign emphasises the importance of wellness and holistic living, reiterating Hyatts commitment to caring for people so they can be their best selves. The campaign marks a pivotal step toward Hyatts growing presence across India & Southwest Asia region with a key focus on LLLLW - Loyalty, Luxury, Leisure, Lifestyle, and Wellness which aligns with the evolving demands of the consumers.

The #WellnessAtHyatt campaign unfolds through a series of narratives that resonate with different aspects of wellness, encouraging guests to embark on a journey of self-discovery and holistic health. As part of the digital campaign, Hyatt has partnered with wellness, fitness and lifestyle influencers and content creators to drive the campaign messaging. The campaign will be amplified across all the participating hotels and Hyatt corporate social media handles along with the influencer handles.

Commenting on the occasion, Deepa Krishnan, Head of Marketing  India and Southwest Asia, Hyatt said, "At Hyatt, wellness is paramount, and we're happy to introduce the #WellnessAtHyatt campaign, providing guests & members with transformative wellness experiences that nurture their physical, mental and spiritual well-being. In today's fast-paced world, there's a growing inclination towards mindful living and we're committed to meeting this demand by offering authentic wellness options combined with authentic local cultural influences across our properties. We recognize that our guests and World of Hyatt members seek more than just travel; they crave meaningful connections and experiences that enrich the soul. Our WellnessAtHyatt campaign underscores our dedication to fulfilling these needs."

Kickstarting the campaign across top wellness destinations in India, Hyatt Hotels will provide guests & members with a variety of wellness offerings tailored to their needs. While the campaign features seven hotels and their unique offerings, all of Hyatts 50 plus hotels across India offer their own wellness experiences. These unique offerings include:

Grand Hyatt Kochi boasts Kerala's rich culture with traditional Sadhya meals and captivating art displays. Guests can unwind on a houseboat with a pampering spa session and explore the island's beauty. For inner peace & harmony, the property offers yoga, hydrotherapy and sound healing sessions.

At Hyatt Regency Dehradun, guests seeking a deeper connection with nature can take a journey through the dense Malsi Forest surrounded by Sal trees for a serene experience. Additionally, guests can indulge in the wellness spa to melt away stress to rejuvenate and refresh. The hotel also offers spiritual wellness with sandhya art at the property, Ganga arti darshan at Rishikesh and helicopter tours to Kedarnath.

Andaz Delhi offers an innovative apothecary approach in chakra reading and healing process to ensure physical and mental well-being of their guests. Additionally, one can enjoy a happy, healthy and an active lifestyle through offerings like puppy yoga session, pottery classes and advanced fitness centre at the property.

At Grand Hyatt Goa, guests can indulge in an enchanting wellness experience through unique offerings like Fish Spa, Aqua Yoga and Fishing by the Bay to experience a blend of relaxation, scenic beauty and a calming aquatic environment.

Hyatt Place Bodhgaya offers a holistic spa experience for modern day travellers seeking a break from the city chaos. The meditation room offers a tranquil space for inner peace and reflection for guests seeking a moment of solitude.

Alila Diwa Goa brings a uniquely refreshing experience and offers an indulgence of bespoke services and luscious lifestyle facilities to relax and feel rejuvenated such as Alila Master class at Spice Studio, Spa Alila, Sundowner at Bistro etc.

At Hyatt Regency Dharamshala, guests can experience the rejuvenating Tibetan healing treatment at Shanti Spa and a guided nature walk to enjoy the breathtaking Himalayan landscape. Guests can indulge in a culinary experience that highlights the local culture and cuisine of Himachal Pradesh, creating meals that delight the palate and promote well-being.
IndoSpace, India's leading industrial and logistics real estate investor, has launched a new brand philosophy campaign called "Linking The Limitless." This ambitious initiative marks a significant milestone in IndoSpace's journey as it positions itself as the pivotal bridge between today's achievements and tomorrow's boundless possibilities.

Liqvd Asia, renowned for its avant-garde approach to marketing and storytelling, has been instrumental in shaping the creative direction of "Linking the Limitless". Their collaboration with IndoSpace has yielded a campaign that not only encapsulates the essence of the brand but also sets a new standard in the industry.

At the heart of the campaign is the theme 'Connect with your tomorrow', which reflects IndoSpace's aspiration to transcend traditional real estate roles. By positioning itself as an enabler of boundless opportunities, IndoSpace aims to propel progressive ideas towards unprecedented growth and innovation.

This strategic endeavor not only aims to fortify IndoSpace's market presence but also reaffirms its pivotal role as a transformative force in the industrial and logistics sector.



The campaign rollout includes a series of strategic elements designed to resonate with IndoSpace's diverse audience, including a dynamic social media presence, a captivating brand film introducing the concept of limitless possibilities together with its offline and online manifestations, and the integration of 'iSpace', IndoSpace's bespoke intranet platform designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders.

Rajesh Jaggi, Vice Chairman (Real Estate)  Everstone Group, said: "At IndoSpace, its our constant endeavour to exceed the expectations of our clients and partners. Our 'Linking the Limitless' campaign is not just a mere brand initiative; it epitomises our ongoing commitment to fostering innovation and driving growth. We believe in bridging today's capabilities with tomorrow's opportunities, creating an ecosystem where every idea can flourish. This campaign embodies our ethos of connecting excellence with efficiency, forging bonds between innovative ideas and the boundless possibilities they unlock."

Sunil Gangras, Head of Creative Services, Liqvd Asia, added: We always strive to push the boundaries of creativity with stories that create relevance and build meaningful impact. Collaborating with IndoSpace on the 'Linking the Limitless' campaign has been a journey of innovation and strategic storytelling. Our aim was to articulate IndoSpace's pivotal role not just as a torchbearer in the industrial and warehousing industry but also as a bridge between ambition and achievement. We wanted to bring to life the scale, the geographical footprint and the aspects of excellence through a visual spectacle of limitless motion that links every journey to its milestone through a narrative that inspires and connects."



The campaign has already commenced and will continue for a month, with the hope of making a lasting impact to empower businesses across sectors, embodying a commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and fostering growth through strategic connectivity.
PepsiCo India, a leading global consumer packaged goods company today announced the launch of RevolutioNari  A Revolution for the Nari, aimed at empowering 1 million women nationwide, in partnership with a consortium of organizations spanning 1,000 days. The program is dedicated to building awareness that will enable women to take informed career decisions, provide upskilling opportunities to enhance employability, and unlock direct and indirect opportunities to improve livelihood prospects in unconventional roles like sales, manufacturing, and agriculture within the FMCG sector across levels. Built on PepsiCo Indias principals of building a Partnership of Progress that emphasizes on a collaborative approach for the collective good of the community, this transformative program will bridge the gender inequality gap in the workforce across India.

RevolutioNari aligns with PepsiCo Indias pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) philosophy, directly integrating into its key pillars  Positive Agriculture and Positive Value Chain, that guide the companys future endeavors to positively impact the environment and communities. Positive Agriculture is aimed at improving the livelihoods of people in the companys agricultural supply chain and communities, with a focus on women empowerment. Whereas Positive Value Chain intends to give increased access to degrees, vocational training, upskilling programs to boost their employability, while advancing the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion agenda at the company.

Jagrut Kotecha, Chief Executive Officer, PepsiCo India & South Asia said We are proud to launch RevolutioNari, that embodies our pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) philosophy of shaping our actions to empower communities, building Positive Agriculture and Positive Value Chain. Through a carefully crafted three-year strategy, we aim to enhance livelihood prospects for women in non-traditional roles across India, advancing progress through partnership with like-minded organizations to drive sustainable development and gender equality in the workforce. PepsiCo India believes in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive positive change. We believe that by investing in women, we are investing in an inclusive future for our country.

Commenting on the launch, Pavitra Singh, CHRO, PepsiCo India and South Asia said, The launch of RevolutioNari  A Revolution for the Nari, marks a significant milestone in PepsiCo Indias decade-long commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We have embarked on an ambitious journey to empower 1 million women in India, by facilitating their holistic development and helping them chart their paths to success. Our focus extends beyond merely providing opportunities and we aim to catalyze a fundamental change in how society views and supports economic empowerment for women. Through strategic interventions and tangible actions, we are laying the foundation for more equitable opportunities in unconventional roles, enhancing the livelihoods of women across India.

Recognizing the underrepresentation of women in Indias growing economy, PepsiCo India identified the missed potential a decade ago and has worked on building well-recognized programs to promote inclusivity at workplace. RevolutioNari is another step in the companys commitment to bridging the gender gap in Indias workforce, thereby contributing to the economic development of the country.

In the first phase of RevolutioNari, PepsiCo India is targeting undergraduate women in multiple disciplines, including STEM and Agriculture, underprivileged women, and senior secondary school students across 100 cities in India. By joining forces with partner organizations and leading corporates, the company will leverage collective expertise and resources to amplify the impact of its RevolutioNari campaign. So far, PepsiCo India has onboarded ecosystem partner organizations - Nirmaan Organization and The Social Lab Foundation, and Internshala, the tech partners to enable community reach-out for the initiative.

As part of this project, the company is introducing several training programs, including technical skill-building and internships, specifically designed for women in the manufacturing and sales sectors. Building awareness and unlocking direct and indirect livelihood opportunities are integral components of the RevolutioNari campaign. Numerous awareness and frontline hiring initiatives like Learn Today Give Tomorrow (LTGT) program, Lateral Hiring programs for Managerial and frontline jobs and Internship Programs specially curated to enable young women are being set in motion to achieve a gender-balanced workforce at PepsiCo India by 2026 across all levels. Moreover, a Tripartite MoU with the Assam Skill Development Mission (ASDM) & Directorate of Employment & Craftsmanship training (DECT) has been signed for upskilling women students from industrial training institutes in Assam to develop a pool of qualified women for front-line plant positions at PepsiCo India.
The second edition of Adgullys CMOs Charcha - Kolkata Chapter 2024, held on June 14, witnessed an insightful panel discussion on Leveraging PR to Amplify your Marketing Message. The panel was chaired by Soumyajit Mahapatra, Chairman, Public Relations Society of India, Kolkata Chapter. The panellists included:

Akhil B Paul, Founder & CEO, Mayabious Group

Aninda Das, Vice President Marketing, Infinity Group

Chitralekha Banerjee, Editor and PR Manager, Wood & Panel, Keshan Infotech

Gulrez Alam, Founder & Director, Teamology

Shalini Mukherjee, Deputy Manager, Corporate Communications, ArcelorMittal Design and Engineering Centre

Soumyajit Mahapatra started the session by introducing the audience with the topic, He mentioned three key components  Strategic storytelling, leveraging PR or public relations and amplifying the marketing message. He emphasized on the complexity of the subject, noting the uncertainty in its development. However, he made one message clear: like social media, every story must include a call to action.

If your story lacks a call to action, the entire message is lost, he explained, adding, And if your story doesn't have a build-up procedure, the emotion is missing, and the message is lost.

Aninda Das shared his perspective on storytelling, emphasizing its personal and relational nature. For me, storytelling is more like building a relationship. In a relationship, if I use the word strategic, it doesnt sit well. People might wonder, why strategic? The relationship has to come from within, and so does storytelling. We need to move beyond just strategy.

Drawing from his professional experience at Infinity, Das discussed the importance of storytelling in attracting investments to Bengal. In my day-to-day work, we aim to bring more investments to Bengal. Different kinds of companies are coming, and we need to keep telling the story of Bengal. Its challenging, but I can't blame any government for not telling the story. I have to tell the story of Sector 5, and I have to tell the story of my Bengal.

Das acknowledged the role of strategy in storytelling, but stressed that the ultimate goal is to benefit Bengal.

Further, Soumyajit posed a question to Gulrez Alam, In the digital domain, across all channels, what are the first three bullet points your team considers when developing a story strategically?

Gulrez responded by emphasizing the three key elements that his team focuses on   Firstly, we prioritize understanding our audiences, including their geographical locations. Secondly, we consider the mediums we will use for amplification. Finally, we ensure the authenticity of the storytelling. These factors are crucial because if the story lacks value, it can lead to negative publicity and branding. These three pillars are essential before planning or analyzing any storytelling.

The session further led to Soumyajit asking Akhil how he develops a story, emphasizing the importance of understanding an organizations narrative to relate effectively to a client's story. He asked, How do you define strategic storytelling?

Akhil B Paul highlighted the importance of in-depth analysis and research in storytelling, drawing parallels between election coverage and brand narratives. Whether its election stories or brand stories, the basics remain the same, he explained. He emphasized on the five Ps of marketing  Product, Price, Promotion, Place, and People  as the foundational elements of strategic storytelling. He illustrated this with an example from advertising, referencing the memorable Fevicol ad where people hang onto a truck moving through a desert, symbolizing the products strength.

These five P's are interconnected. A successful story, like a best-selling book, stems from these elements. Todays generation benefits from advanced tools like big data and AI, which provide valuable insights for storytelling, Paul noted.

While emotion is crucial, the backbone of any story lies in these fundamentals, he said. Paul concluded by affirming the enduring relevance of the five Ps in creating impactful stories, supported by modern data analysis and technology. Soumyajit next queried Chitralekha, How do you develop a story for your wood company?

Chitralekha Banerjee explained that their stories focus on the journey of a tree, from a log to a finished piece of furniture, like the chair we are sitting on. Every day, when I sit down to write a story, I think about what a log goes through before becoming furniture. What are the processes involved? That is what we write about. That is what makes up a story, she elaborated.

Chitralekha then referenced Akhils five Ps of marketing and added a sixth: Passion. If you have passion for something, you can create a story out of anything. You just have to think from the perspective of your audience and what they want, she said.

My audience consists mostly of woodworkers in the woodworking industry. They are looking for details about wood, and I write for them with passion. And that makes all the difference, she added.

Moving ahead, Soumyajit questioned Shalini Mukherjee about the challenges that she faces in her new assignment at ArcelorMittal. How do you develop stories for your designs, given the unique challenges of not having a design center in India or Kolkata and working with an international team?, asked.

Mukherjee responded by saying, ArcelorMittal is a global steel giant, known worldwide. Here in Kolkata, they have developed a design and engineering center, which means we are dealing with human brains as our product. Our customers are primarily ArcelorMittal plants and other segments and units.

She explained that the employees are the core of their storytelling. Our employees are the ingredients of the story. They are the protagonists, and their lives, dedication, and hard work should not go unnoticed. That is how I have been trying to build the story for my organization.

Comparing her current role to her previous position in the power industry, Mukherjee highlighted the differences in storytelling approaches. In the power industry, we focused on business sustainability based on social sustainability, which involved talking about society. Its very different now. Here, it's about hard work, storytelling, and story-building, all driven by passion and heart. You need to have a connection as well."
TikTok is potentially facing a new lawsuit from the US Department of Justice after the Federal Trade Commission accused the platform of violating children's privacy.

In a press release statement on Tuesday, the FTC announced that it referred a complaint on TikTok and its parent company ByteDance to the DOJ for failing to comply with its settlement agreement.

The complaint follows earlier FTC investigations around TikTok's 2019 settlement for violating the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, specifically illegally collecting children's personal details without parental consent.

TikTok, formerly Musical.y, had to pay $5.7 million and agreed to improve its data collection systems to resolve allegations. The complaint filing might indicate that the commission found new violations related to the earlier lawsuit.

In response, TikTok claimed that it has been closely working with the FTC over the years and is "deeply committed to the work we've done to protect children."

The Justice Department is expected to provide a decision on whether to pursue a civil lawsuit against TikTok within 45 days.

Also Read : TikTok Faces Potential Lawsuit from FTC Over Privacy and Safety Violations

US Gov't Enforces Online Child Safety Provisions on Social Platforms

The FTC crackdown on TikTok's child safety activities came as state governments and other regulators tightened their laws around social platforms.

Earlier in February, several social media CEOs, including TikTok, appeared before the Senate to discuss growing concerns about children being exposed to sexual harassment, bullying, and explicit content on their platform.

State governments, including New York and Florida, have also passed their own laws to enforce stricter policies on children's access to social media.

All of these are in addition to the proposed Kids Online Safety Act that would effectively hold social media platforms legally responsible for the content children see on their apps and sites.

Related Article : Child Online Protection Bill Gains New Support Ahead of Senate Decision

TikTok Faces More Legal Problems in the US

The potential FTC/DOJ lawsuit is only the latest set of legal headaches TikTok is currently facing in the US as regulators and the federal government continue to crack down on the company.

The White House has recently passed a law that would require the Beijing-based ByteDance to sell TikTok to a US-based company or face a nationwide ban.

TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew vowed to take the legislation to the legal court before the allotted time to divest expires in January.

This is in addition to several lawsuits and legislations the platform is currently facing from several states accusing the app of harming children's mental health.

TikTok is set to appeal the lawsuits and state laws in the coming months.
Supreme Court to Host Special Lok Adalat from July 29 to August 3 2

The Supreme Court of India will hold a special Lok Adalat from July 29 to August 3, marking the 75th anniversary of its founding. This initiative aims to promote the amicable resolution of appropriate pending cases.

In the 75th year of its establishment, the Supreme Court of India is organising a Special Lok Adalat from July 29, 2024, to August 3, 2024, to facilitate amicable settlements of suitable pending cases, stated the Supreme Court in a press release.

Lok Adalats are an integral component of the judicial system in this country, enhancing alternative dispute resolution as a means of expediting and fostering amicable settlements, the statement added.

The upcoming Lok Adalat reflects the Supreme Courts commitment to ensuring accessible and efficient delivery of justice to all segments of society.

Cases pending before the Supreme Court with potential for settlement, such as matrimonial and property disputes, motor accident claims, land acquisition disputes, compensation matters, and service and labour disputes, will be addressed to expedite their resolution.
The telegram was dated April 14, 1918; the time stamped 2:34 a.m.

It was addressed to Henry E. Battle, a prominent physician in Andalusia, Ala. The contents would cause Battles wife, Jessie, to go into, as the local newspaper described it, a state of collapse. The telegram said: The Navy Collier Cyclops on which your son, Lee Otis Battle, seaman second class, U.S.N., was a member of the crew is overdue at an Atlantic Port since March thirteenth.  Her disappearance cannot be logically accounted for in any way as no bad weather conditions or activities of enemy raiders have been reported in the vicinity of her route. Search for her is being continued by radio and by vessels
A manhunt is underway for an Alabama man wanted in connection with four murders in two states.

Stacy Lee Drake, 50, is sought on three homicides in Oklahoma and one in Alabama, authorities said Wednesday.

Drake is from Birmingham, police said. Alabama court records described him as homeless and noted a previous Arizona residence.

On Tuesday, the Sequoyah County Sheriffs Office in Oklahoma and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation responded to a double homicide in Gans.

Deputies about 6:30 p.m. responded to a business near State Highway 64 and South 4670 Road. When they arrived, they found a man and woman dead inside a business.

Both had injuries consistent with homicide, state authorities said, but did not elaborate.

Details of the third homicide in Oklahoma werent immediately available but OSBI said three people were killed during two separate carjackings.

Drake is separately wanted on multiple felony warrants from multiple jurisdictions, with charges including aggravated robbery, carjacking, and murder, according to the press release.

The vehicle Drake reportedly took during one of the crimes was found late Tuesday night parked at a hotel in Morrilton, Arkansas.

Morrilton police said Wednesday that Drake was seen on video in the hotels parking lot. The hotel was searched but Drake was not located.

Arkansas officials said Drake has an active warrant for homicide out of Alabama. He is believed to be armed and dangerous.

It was not immediately clear where in Alabama Drake is wanted. Outstanding warrants are not public until they have been served on the suspect.

Drake is a white male with brown hair and eyes. He is 5-feet, 11-inches tall and weighs 185 pounds.

Anyone with information on Drakes whereabouts is asked to contact the OSBI at 1-800-522-8017 or tips@osbi.ok.gov.
The Gulf waters remained closed to the public from Alabama and through the Florida Gulf Coast on Wednesday, and the closures could last for at least another day.

The rough surf prompted the National Weather Service in Mobile to release an unusual social media post early Wednesday, comparing the waters to tourists at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming.

They want to boop your snoot, an NWS Facebook post reads. Also Fact: You are not a 1500 (pound) Bison and the ocean plays no boop backs. Stay out of the dang water this week if you dont want your snoot booped by a wave. Can confirm, very bad! #ripcurrents

I think that was our midnight shift having fun on social media, said Cody Lindsey, meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Mobile. I think the point was that rip currents are akin to a large beast. You dont want to mess around with it.

Indeed, the Gulfs strength prompted lifeguards in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores to raise the double red flags for the second day in a row. The flags mean the Gulf waters are closed to the public, and if someone attempts to get in and are caught, they could be arrested.

Officials, however, emphasize the beaches are open for people to walk along and visit.

Double red flags   are flying in Orange Beach today - Wednesday, June 19th. Gulf waters are CLOSED to the public due to potentially life threatening rip currents/surf. Disobeying could lead to arrest or fine. The beach remains open. : Cotton Bayou Beach. @spann #alwx pic.twitter.com/2pjqV44rOU  City of Orange Beach (@cityorangebeach) June 19, 2024

Life-threatening surf hazards with large swell are present 6/19/24.



SWFD lifeguards are flying double red flags. 



Under these conditions, it is illegal to swim and/or boogie board in the Gulf. Violators can face $500 fines and criminal charges from law enforcement.



1/2 pic.twitter.com/BLdlbSpjTM  South Walton Fire District (@swfdinfo) June 19, 2024

Lindsey said double red flags were flying on all public beaches from Alabama to Destin. Orange Beach was reporting 5-foot surf, Lindsey said. A typical surf in Alabama is under 3 feet.

At Pensacola Beach, the surf was between 6 to 7 feet, Lindsey said.

The dangerous conditions are continuing, he said. I would not be surprised (to see the Gulf closed in Alabama and Northern Florida on Thursday) if these surf heights remain.

He said its up to lifeguards in both cities to determine if the double red flags should continue. Those decisions typically occur in the morning.

It looks like things will be rough out there in the morning before things slowly improve as we go to the weekend, Lindsey said.

The rough waters are related to two things - Tropical Storm Alberto building in the Gulf and expected to make landfall Thursday in Mexico, and affecting Texas, as well as a high-ridge system building in the Atlantic Ocean. The combination, Lindsey said, is churning up high surf along the northern Gulf.

Lindsey said he anticipates the high surf advisories ending late on Thursday, though a rip current risk could last through Friday.

The Gulf waters have been rough throughout the week. There were several minor rescues that occurred on Monday, and a 23-year-old Mississippi man drowned in Gulf Shores on Sunday while a single red flag few warning beachgoers about the dangers of the Gulf.

Lindsey said he hopes the NWS social media post will draw visitors to coastal Alabama to notice the beach flags and educate themselves on what they mean.

Rip currents are nothing to mess around with so definitely pay attention, he said. If youre coming to the beach from the inland, and you are not sure what the flag situation means, familiarize yourself with it and heed advice and be safe. We want people to enjoy their time on the beach.
This is an opinion cartoon.

Sign up for JD Crowes newsletter: Enter your email to subscribe to JDs weekly newsletter, Crowe Jam.

Abolish slavery tomorrow, and not a sentence or syllable of the Constitution need be altered. It was purposely so framed as to give no claim, no sanction to the claim, of property in man. If in its origin slavery had any relation to the government, it was only as the scaffolding to the magnificent structure, to be removed as soon as the building was completed. - Frederick Douglass

Happy Juneteenth, yall. June 19 has long been recognized by African Americans as a day to celebrate the end of slavery. It was finally authorized as a federal holiday in 2021. But its only a temporary holiday in Alabama. Gov. Kay Ivey established it as a state holiday by proclamation in 2022. She should be commended. For it to become a permanent state holiday, Alabama lawmakers need to initiate and pass legislation. Dont hold your breath waiting on these anti-DEI goobers to do anything for anyone but themselves.

Alabama celebrates three Confederate-related state holidays: Confederate Memorial Day in April, the birthday of Confederate President Jefferson Davis in June, and the joint holiday of Robert E. Lee Day and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in January. Thats two and a half too many.

Related: I have a dream that one day in Alabama, MLK will no longer share a holiday with Robert E. Lee - al.com

The end of slavery stands as a victory for humanity and should be celebrated by one and all. The Confederacy? Not so much.

Lets start by doing away with the most embarrassing - the odd coupling of Robert E. Lee and Martin Luther King. Must Alabama always provide a Confederate loser option for those unwilling to recognize a Black civil rights icon?

As I have proposed before, we should trade Robert E. Lee for Black abolitionist and statesman Frederick Douglass.

Lets celebrate Juneteenth with a few more quotes by Douglass:

Its easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.

Shoot down the Confederacy and uphold the flag; the American flag.

Without a struggle, there can be no progress.

Men do not love those who remind them of their sins.

They who study mankind with a whip in their hands will always go wrong.

I would unite with anybody to do right; and with nobody to do wrong.

True stories and stuff by JD Crowe

How I met Dr. Seuss

Robert Plant head-butted me. Thanks, David Coverdale

I was ZZ Tops drummer for a night and got kidnapped by groupies

Check out more cartoons and stuff by JD Crowe

JD Crowe is the cartoonist for Alabama Media Group and AL.com. He won the RFK Human Rights Award for Editorial Cartoons in 2020. In 2018, he was awarded the Rex Babin Memorial Award for local and state cartoons by the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists. Follow JD on Facebook, Twitter @Crowejam and Instagram @JDCrowepix. Give him a holler @jdcrowe@al.com.
The Democratic primary in the special election to replace longtime Alabama Rep. John Rogers is headed to a runoff.

Kelvin Datcher will face Frank Woodson in a runoff election on July 16 to determine the Democratic partys nominee for the House District 52 seat representing parts of Birmingham and Jefferson County.

We are overwhelmed by the support were getting from one side of the district to the other, Datcher told AL.com. I couldnt be more thrilled about the outcome tonight.

The candidate who wins the runoff will face Carlos Crum, the only Republican candidate in the heavily Democratic district, in the general special election on Oct. 1.

In Tuesdays primary, Datcher, an aide to Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and the citys deputy director of community development, received nearly 38% of the votes.

Woodson, the president and CEO of CityServe Alabama, a network of local churches, received just shy of 18% of the votes.

Tonight I feel great, Woodson said. Tomorrow we unite as a team of leaders across our community and we begin to hear what the people have to say.

Turnout in the race was dismal with just 1,344 of 34,231 registered voters participating. Thats just under 4%.

Coming out atop the six-candidate field, Datcher received 510 votes. Woodson received 239 votes, beating Latonia Millhouse, the third place finisher, by just three votes.

Woodson said the results of the election, including the vast numbers of people who did not vote, showed that residents want a change.

One of the things I wanted to run was a campaign for better business, better politics, and a better community, Woodson told AL.com.We need to be clear on the message thats being sent by the majority.

This is Datchers first time seeking elected office after two decades in public service. He has previously served as a chief of staff to Sheila Tyson, who was a city councilwoman at the time. He also worked as a policy analyst for the Jefferson County Department of Health.

Datcher said he has the skills and experience to forge a stronger relationship between Birmingham and state government.

There are lots of conversations of commonality that we can have with folks on both sides of the aisle that would resonate with everybody in the state of Alabama, and sometimes you have to come at an issue from different angles to get to the same place, he told AL.com in an earlier interview. There are decisions made in public policy that have been a blessing to me and my family and this is an opportunity for me to try to contribute and give back to others who want to pursue their own dreams.

Woodson formerly served as executive director of Mission Birmingham, a faith-based community development organization.

He was appointed by former Governor Robert Bentley to the Governors Office of Faith and Community Service.

Datcher and Woodson knocked four other Democrats out of the race tonight: Millhouse, Dedra Campbell, Eric Major and Eyrika Parker.

This is the first time in more than 40 years that the district will have a new representative. John Rogers in March resigned after pleading guilty to federal corruption charges in a kickback scheme that also brought down another state lawmaker.

Prosecutors said Rogers misused public money intended for Jefferson County nonprofit agencies. State Rep. Fred Plump also resigned and pleaded guilty for his role in the scheme.

Rogers pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice.

He will be sentenced on July 26. Prosecutors have recommended that the judge reduce his charges and sentence him to 14 months of house arrest, followed by supervised release.
The pastor of a Texas megachurch has resigned after a woman said he had sexually abused her on multiple occasions in the 1980s, beginning when she was 12.

Gateway Churchs board of elders said in a statement Tuesday that theyd accepted the resignation of Robert Morris, the churchs senior pastor and founder. The board said it had hired a law firm to to conduct an independent review to make sure they have a complete understanding of the events from 1982 to 1987.

The allegations came to light Friday on the religious watchdog blog The Wartburg Watch. Cindy Clemishire, Morris accuser, told The Dallas Morning News in an interview Saturday that she met Morris in 1981, when he was a traveling preacher and began preaching at her familys church in Oklahoma. She said Morris and his wife and young son became close to her family. She said he was staying at her house in 1982 when he asked her to come to his room. He told her to lay on his bed and then began touching her inappropriately, said Clemishire, now 52.

See also: Texas pastor resigns from Church of the Highlands board of overseers after sex abuse allegations

She said the abuse continued for about the next four-and-a-half years. The Associated Press typically does not name people who say they have been sexually assaulted unless they come forward publicly, as Clemishire has done.

When asked about the allegations by The Christian Post, Morris, 62, said in a statement to the publication that when he was in his early 20s he was involved in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in a home where I was staying.

It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong, he said in the statement. This behavior happened on several occasions over the next few years.

The board said that before Friday, they did not have all of the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse. They said that their understanding of the extramarital relationship that Morris had discussed many times throughout his ministry was not that it was abuse of a 12-year-old child.

The church, based in the Dallas suburb of Southlake, was founded by Morris in 2000 and has multiple locations in the area and says over 100,000 people attend each weekend. Morris, the founding pastor, has been politically active. He was among those on former President Donald Trumps evangelical advisory board. The church hosted Trump on its Dallas campus in 2020 for a discussion on race relations and the economy.

Morris did not immediately respond Tuesday to a request for comment sent to his email at the church.
State authorities on Tuesday said they are investigating the fatal shooting of a 15-year-old at the hands of an Athens police officer over the weekend.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agencys State Bureau of Investigation said it launched the investigation on Saturday at the Athens Police Departments request.

SBI investigations into fatal shootings by police officers are standard practice.

The police officer, who was not named publicly, responded Saturday to Elles Drive in Athens on a call about a teenager threatening family members with a knife.

The officer made contact with a 15-year-old who was brandishing a firearm, according to the SBI.

The teen, who was not publicly identified, was injured by gunfire and taken to a local hospital, where they died of their injuries.

The SBI did not provide further comment on the investigation except to say the probes findings will be turned over to the Limestone County district attorney once it is complete.
This is an opinion column

The Southern Baptist Convention is dead wrong about in vitro fertilization (IVF). Messengers to the annual meeting of the nations largest protestant denomination approved a misguided resolution that threatens the heart of Americas pro-life coalition. The uncertain sound of Baptist leaders in condemning IVF demands a clear, reasoned rebuke.

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mothers womb, wrote King David in Psalm 139. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

I constantly remind my sons of these truths. God makes no mistakes in the people He creates. Every life is precious and worthy of our protection. Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations, the Lord said to Jeremiah.

Where does the Bible repeatedly tell us that God creates human life? The womb.

The Creator deemed three ingredients necessary to make a human: an egg, a sperm, and implantation in a uterus. Without any one component, nothing happens. Even as God knows us and sets us apart before giving us the breath of life, the Bible is quite clear about where and how our physical bodies are formed. I dont know the precise moment when God creates our souls, but I do know He values our lives.

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward, wrote Solomon. Were that not enough, the Apostle Paul reminds us that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Gods love for us is unmistakable.

Would that same God attach a human soul to sperm?

Even in a God-ordained marriage, a healthy adult male will release as many as 1.2 billion sperm in a single ejaculation. Most of the time, all of them perish. Knowing the value God places on human life, he wouldnt permit a massive genocide every time a couple has sex. The argument against human eggs being equivalent to human beings is similar. No human perishes when an egg is shed along with the uterine lining during menstruation. God is not allowing human beings to die on a massive scale as a result of normal biological processes.

The Southern Baptist Convention makes a massive logical leap in declaring that the union of the two deserves special moral consideration regardless of location. Its the same benighted logic used by the Alabama Supreme Court to conjure up extrauterine persons. The Southern Baptist resolution calls them frozen embryonic human beings.

To be clear, there have never been any extrauterine or frozen embryonic persons in the history of human existence. Without implantation in a uterus, an embryo will cease development after about two weeks and die. That isnt my interpretation; its Gods natural design.

Even if we imagine a futuristic science fiction setting where human babies are grown in pods, that carrier is a functional uterus. Its an indispensable ingredient for human life. We should absolutely raise ethical questions about any technology at the genesis of human life, but the fundamental components havent changed since God created man and woman.

Nevertheless, the messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention in Indianapolis recently reaffirmed the unconditional value and right to life of every human being, including those in an embryonic stage, and to only utilize reproductive technologies consistent with that affirmation especially in the number of embryos generated in the IVF process.

The gathering of Baptist representatives put a velvet glove on the iron-fisted resolution. We grieve alongside couples who have been diagnosed with infertility or are currently struggling to conceive, reads the same resolution which condemns their best hope for a family as insufficiently God-honoring and morally justified. In fact, the adopted resolution calls on Baptists to advocate for the government to restrain actions inconsistent with the dignity and value of every human being, which necessarily includes frozen embryonic human beings.

The Southern Baptist Conventions IVF resolution, which runs roughshod over both biology and theology, also fails to connect with most rank-and-file Christians across America. A Pew survey from April of this year found that white Evangelical Protestants, of which Southern Baptists are the largest contingent, supported IVF by a margin of 63 percent to 9 percent.

Im a Southern Baptist with a nephew conceived through IVF. I have no moral reservations whatsoever about the process. God has given us the scientific capacity to assist in family creation and expansion by taking an embryo that will not grow on its own and implanting it in an otherwise healthy uterus.

The Southern Baptist Convention hides behind a shroud of moral uncertainty. In guidance on IVF, the Southern Baptists Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) staff offer the following:

Southern Baptists believe that Christians should in general oppose IVF because by its very nature it separates procreation from sex and treats children as products rather than people. Though we should be hesitant to call it sin, it is morally ambiguous enough to be problematic and should be discouraged as a matter of wisdom and prudence.

I hold ERLC President Brent Leatherwood in high regard. Hes a thoughtful man of high moral character and deep conviction. The aforementioned guidance from his ERLC staff fails to meet that standard. Its church speak for we cant say for certain that IVF is sinful, but lets oppose it anyway just to be safe. Such a posture would deny countless Christians the opportunity to start families, condemn those who have sought IVF treatment, and fracture the pro-life movement.

Either IVF is sinful according to Gods word and should be opposed with the same force and conviction of partial-birth abortion, or it isnt and should be heartily supported as a viable means to start a family.

The Dobbs decision didnt outlaw abortion, it simply moved the decision to the states. For every state curtailing abortion access, another is codifying or expanding it. Those of us who support life must work together to protect it, advocate for policies which support new families, and focus on providing alternative paths for women who see abortion as their only option.

We cannot divert time, talent, or treasure towards banning or limiting IVF practices which are safe, established, and morally sound. God creates human life in a manner that is historically consistent and reinforced with Scripture. In this case, biological ignorance and moral speculation have given birth to a harmful church edict that Christians should quickly reject.

Smith is a recovering political attorney with four boys, two dogs, a bearded dragon, and an extremely patient wife. Hes a partner in a media company, a business strategy wonk, and a regular on talk radio. Please direct outrage or agreement to csmith@al.com or @DCameronSmith on X or @davidcameronsmith on Threads.
California Governor Gavin Newsom proposed a smartphone restriction during school days due to the increasing mental health risk of social media usage.

In 2019, Newsom signed a bill in 2019 to authorize school districts to limit or ban the usage of smartphones in school or put them under the supervision of a school employee.

Read Also : 5 Healthy Ways to Reduce Your Kids' Time on Social Media

California Governor Plans Smartphone Restriction on Schools as Law

Recently, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy proposed to Congress that social media companies must be required to put warning labels and disclose effects to young users. Newson backed the proposal and shared a document he signed in 2019.

"When children and teens are in school, they should be focused on their studies - not their screens," the governor said in a statement. He also shared that he is hopeful to work with the Legislature to build a law that will restrict smartphones on school days.

Other details for the proposal have yet to be disclosed. Meanwhile, the California School Boards Association stated that any regulations about student's devices should be decided by the school districts.

US Government Explores Mitigation of Social Media's Impact on Youth

The U.S. government has been monitoring the impacts of social media platforms and smartphone usage on young users. Several top companies like Meta and TikTok have been facing probes due to the harmful effects of their platforms on youth.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill that bans social media for children under age 14. The bill also stated that 14 and 15-year-olds must acquire parental permission first.

The New York State Legislature also passed a bill that gives parents more control over their kids' social media posts. The new bill allows parents to block their kids from receiving and viewing posts from the platform's algorithm.

In California, a committee hearing in the Assembly next month will be held to review Senator Nancy Skinner's proposal to ban online platforms from suggesting addictive algorithms to minors.
One of the silliest controversies of late has been the recent hyperventilation at the New York Times over the flags Justice Samuel Alito has flown over his properties. Many conservatives have rightly argued that this is the latest attempt by the left to delegitimize the conservative majority on the Supreme Court, but it is also about far more -- its an attempt to delegitimize the entire American founding.

For the uninitiated, the New York Times has run a series of reports about which flags the good Justice and his wife have flown over their properties. Mrs. Alito raised an upside-down American flag over their suburban Maryland residence amid a dispute with a neighbor. The Times linked the Alitos flag to the fact that a few January 6 rioters also flew our national emblem upside-down, signaling distress.

A reporter was then dispatched to the couples vacation home on the Jersey Shore to confirm that they had flown the Appeal to Heaven flag, a Revolutionary War naval ensign. Long accepted as a symbol of the American Founding and particularly popular in my native New England, the flag has been transformed into a culture war issue almost overnight. The Times has convinced its progressive readership that the ensign is a provocative flag and a symbol of the far right because some of the J6ers carried it as well.

If this seems like a spurious attempt to link Justice Alito to the Capitol riot, thats because it is. But its not the full story. The Left is also trying to alienate a good number of Americans from the iconography of their countrys founding.

Writing in Newsweek, Peter Roff asks ...There were people on Capitol Hill on January 6 carrying the American flag properly. Does that mean, according to the logic behind the Alito story, that Old Glory itself now represents Stop the Steal as well?

Well, yes, yes it does. Dobbs aside, the radical left would like us to associate Old Glory with the Right. The Stars and Stripes is itself a symbol of the American founding, and therefore must be replaced with the flag of the Viet Cong or Palestine or whatever revolutionaries the scions of the upper middle class are fetishizing these days. Associating our flag with the extreme of one political faction diminishes the esteem in which it is held by others.

This explains why the Left tripped over themselves to conform to the Times narrative. CNN proclaimed the Appeal to Heaven flag controversial. San Francisco City Hall has already dutifully removed the historic emblem from its plaza. In my beloved home state of Maine, where voters will decide this fall whether to revert to our old state flag that also has a pine tree on it, the largest paper frets that the Pine Tree States flag will get lumped in with the Revolutionary-era symbol.

In a matter of days, the historic flag has become toxic to many Americans who would not otherwise associate with far-left politics. The radicals will not stop until they have done this to all the symbols of Americas civic religion.

And symbols matter. If celebrating the imagery of the Founding Fathers, or indeed of the country as a whole, is coded as far-right, it is no great leap to code any celebration of America as far-right. Patriotism itself can be made anathema to mainstream Americans who dont wish to associate with that label, which in turn undermines support for liberty, democracy, and individual rights.

How should conservatives respond? At first, the Left ceding basic patriotism to the Right may seem a historic victory in the culture war, but it is a pyrrhic one. Conservatives may profit in the near run as some of the patriotic center will find themselves leaning Right in reaction to the Lefts assault on our cherished symbols. But just as many -- and perhaps more -- will follow the tastemakers to the anti-American far Left.

Rather than assert ownership over these symbols in a way that alienates the center-left -- looking at you, Michael Knowles -- conservatives are better served fighting for their universality. Outside of San Francisco, the Right should make the case that other city halls ought to keep the Appeal to Heaven flag flying where it already is as a symbol of the freedoms for which our forebears fought, not an avatar of a contemporary political issue.

Some conservatives in Maine also oppose the effort to change back to the old state flag because it is somehow woke. They should instead rally behind it and make common cause with those center-left voters who dont want a treasured symbol of our state lumped in with a flag the newspapers are telling them to avoid.

Wherever the right can resist the temptation to politically code our national symbols and respectfully reinforce the notion that these flags -- and the country they represent -- belong to all of us, they should. The future of American patriotism may depend on it.

James Erwin is a Young Voices contributor who writes on free speech and tech policy. He lives in Washington, DC.

Image: E. Benjamin Andrews
The norm on the left is to say directly or indirectly that everyone who opposes the left is a Nazi. Dennis Prager has gone one step further when it comes to the people of Gaza and the West Bank. According to Prager, these people are actually worse than the Nazis. Prager doesnt mean that they are more efficiently effective than the Nazis because theyre not. What he means is that, when you are looking at a complete moral abyss in which only sadism, hatred, and death live, even the Nazis couldnt compete with the Gazans and West Bankians.* And you know what? Prager has a point.

Pragers essay is here, and I urge you to read the whole thing. His opening premise is that, unlike the so-called Palestinians, the Nazis knew that what they were doing was wrong and tried to hide their crimes. The Palestinians, however, are proud of what theyre doing. From that starting point, Prager explains that one can conclude as a general matter that [m]orally speaking, it would be difficult to name a less impressive people than the Palestinians over the past century. Thats a polite understatement.

To see how bad they are, one needs to start long before October 7 and, indeed, long before Israels founding, an event todays so-called Palestinians use to justify all their atrocities. Prager walks his readers through how the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Haj Amin al-Husseini, was one of Hitlers most enthusiastic supporters.

Image: A cheering crowd applauding Hamass parade of dead Jewish civilians. (See the whole tweet to understand how truly awful these people are.)

This wasnt because the Mufti believed in the Fatherland or Aryan purity. Instead, Prager explains that it was because [a]s reported in the Holocaust Encyclopedia, Al-Husseini pointed out that Germany alone recognized the global threat of the Jewish problem and took steps to solve it globally... The Muftis enthusiasm for the Holocaust part of Hitlerism led him to sponsor an Islamic Central Institute in Berlin at the start of the Holocaust to encourage killing Jews.

If I were Prager, I would also have mentioned Arab attacks on Jews in British-mandate Palestine before the modern nation of Israel came into being, the first nation on that land since the Romans destroyed the ancient Kingdom of Judea. These included the 1921 Jaffa riots, the 1929 riots, the 1931-1932 Black Hand riots (now theyre red hands, to symbolize the blood of dead Jews), the 1933 riots, the 1936 Jaffa riots, the 1936 general strike, and the 1938 Tiberias pogrom. (Beginning after 1938, the Irgun fought back and, eventually, as part of the actual War of Independence, the Haganah and Palmach did, too.)

After Israels founding, the killing continued. Twice in May 1970, the so-called Palestinians deliberately attacked school children, killing 18 and wounding 50 (along with killing and wounding adults). In 1972, using Japanese terrorists, they slaughtered 26 people and injured 80 others at Israels international airport. In 1974, they again attacked Israeli children, killing 22 and injuring 68 (again killing and wounding adultsm too). In 1978, they hijacked a bus, killing 13 children and 25 adults and injuring 76. In 1974, a suicide bomber blew up a bus during rush hour, killing 22 and wounding 50. And those are only some examples.

Rather than being embarrassed by their coreligionists actions, the populations in Gaza and the West Bank applaud them, and their government gives huge sums of money (much of which comes from American taxpayers) to the killers families.

In addition to the Gazan and West Bankian depredations against Jews, Prager also recites how utterly horrible these people are when they move to other countries. It was the so-called Palestinians who inaugurated the 1970s era of hijackings, which also led to the bloody Jordanian-Palestinian war. The so-called Palestinians also caused the Lebanese Civil War that reduced a country once called the Arab Riviera to a smoldering heap of ruins. That war ended because Israel went into Southern Lebanon and routed the terrorists. Sadly, Hezbollah has now filled that vacuum and attacks Israel daily (something the news never mentions).

The so-called Palestinians are truly awful people who, like the Nazis, need to be completely conquered so that their dreadful values can be destroyed.

Yet it is these same people with whom the West, including Joe Biden, allies itself. It is these blood-thirsty, disruptive, sadistic people who inspired students to walk out of their own graduation at Stanford. Its these people whom we are told, quite self-righteously, are innocent victims who must be supported even if it means Israels destruction and the death of every Jew within her borders.

Some people hold these views because they believe the propaganda that shows fake corpses, AI-created weeping children, and grossly inflated mortality numbers. (Just recently, even the UN had to admit that the claimed famine in Gaza is a lie.)

Sadly, however, its clear that others hold these views either out of political expediency (a Biden administration desperate to win Michigan, no matter that it means allying with people truly worse than the Nazis) or because they applaud the so-called Palestinians values. And while the Biden camp is a disgusting moral vacuum, the really scary thing is the number of people in America and abroad who enthusiastically support those Palestinian goals.

_________________

*Although Prager refers to the denizens of Gaza and the West Bank as Palestinians, its important to understand that this self-acquired title is a lie. Ive already explained why this is a misnomer so I wont repeat myself here.
An illegal alien from Ecuador, doing what many have been conditioned to think they can get away with, raped a 13-year-old in a Queens park in broad daylight in New York on June 13. There weren't any consequences for crossing the border illegally for him, nor were there any for the previous crimes he committed.

This time, though, he was in for a surprise when New Yorkers, none of them white, put up lookout posters, lay in wait for him, and then pounced when he turned up at a bodega, giving him the beatdown he needed until the cops came.

According to the New York Post:

A group of good Samaritans helped nab the 25-year-old Ecuadorean migrant wanted for the brutal sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl at a Queens park  smacking him around and tying him up with a belt. Dramatic video and photos obtained by The Post shows the shirtless creep  later identified by police as Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi  cowering on the sidewalk early Tuesday as the angry mob pounds him and calls him out as a rapist. Where are you going? Where are you going? a woman is heard screaming in Spanish while clutching his hair. Hes a rapist. He dont care.

It was an impressive show of community solidarity of the kind that keeps neighborhoods safe, this one in New York in a very New York-y way of doing such things. We often speak of small town America being full of this kind of social capital, but actually, New York has it, too, at least in the boroughs, stopping a child rapist is something the whole community agrees on, and so, the community prevailed. Oh, and as I said earlier, they weren't white. That's all the better because the leftists in the prosecutors' office would not dare prosecute locals of this kind, they'd have political problems if they did. They tried that on a poor Dominican clerk in Manhattan who stabbed a robber and found himself in a world of trouble.

While we may criticize this as a double standard, and yes, it is a double standard, as we all know about the white Marine who defended the subway car from a menacing criminal, it's nevertheless a good thing that they probably won't touch this community for beating the criminal because each such incident builds a broader community standard about what is acceptable and what is not, and that has potential to affect all communities.

As a matter of fact, it isn't all that surprising that it happened this way in New York.

If I hadn't lived there myself, I wouldn't recognize it as I do.

Back in 1996 or so, I lived in Jersey City, New Jersey. I was out late in Manhattan and as I waited at the Port Authority Bus Terminal for a shuttle back over the river, I noticed a seedy punk eyeing me as I opened my backpack to take out my ticket. I got away from him but he got on the shuttle with me. I got off at my stop at JFK Boulevard and started walking down the hill to the house where I was staying. The freak got off and followed, too -- closely. I was wearing high heels. I pulled out my pepper spray. I didn't want to seem perturbed so I carried on when I should have run back onto that shuttle, but of course I didn't, the shuttle left, and then he lunged for me, grabbing my backpack. I didn't have time to spray him so I screamed like a banshee at midnight. I couldn't chase him well given my footwear.

But suddenly, the whole neighborhood came out and ran after him, grabbing him, pounding him, and giving him his beatdown. They got me my backpack back with its ripped straps along with everything in it and the cops came by and charged him with theft -- and resisting arrest, plus damage to my backpack which I made a claim on. Court followed though I don't know if this guy got jail or not. All the same, it was a satisfactory ending given the crime, and I was so grateful I lived in a neighborhood full of people like this, who'd come running out in their pajamas to stop a criminal in the act and give him some street justice, too, just in case the cops or prosecutors didn't do it the way it needed to be done.

So it was in Queens nearly 30 years later. The migrant who did this was here illegally, so the brutal rape never would have occurred had Joe Biden done his job to secure the border. The migrant had commited many crimes already, none with any consequences. It's probably not a surprise that he thought he could get away with raping a child and getting away with it. And the possibility remains that the prosecutor may fail to charge the creep, too, or let him out for the fortieth time. But he did get his moment of mortal terror, cowering under a car, beaten with his hair yanked and an angry woman asking him where the heck he thought he was going. That was a downpayment on justice. Let's hope there is real justice in this case that extends not just to the rapist but all the way up to Joe Biden.

Image: Twitter screen shot
I call them newly-minted Democrats. Is that a fair characterization? You think I'm exaggerating or generalizing? Think about it. What, are they going to vote for Trump? How is this legal? And if this executive action is not stopped, what would stop Biden and the Democrats from nationalizing every citizen of Mexico and making them citizens or dual citizens of the United States? Where does the rule of law end and executive orders begin?

The recent executive order by President Biden is an alarming move that essentially grants mass amnesty to around 500,000 illegal aliens. This isnt just about immigration policy; it's a blatant election-year maneuver to secure votes. By shielding these individuals from deportation and providing them with a pathway to permanent residency, Biden is ensuring a significant boost in voter support, particularly from Hispanic and Latino communities. This is not just an opinion; it's backed by the numbers and the timing.

Political Pandering at Its Finest

House Homeland Security Committee Chair Mark Green rightly called this move an eleventh-hour ploy for mass amnesty. The timing couldnt be more suspicious. Just months before the crucial 2024 elections, Bidens administration decides to grant legal status to half a million individuals who were previously ineligible to vote. This isnt about humanitarian efforts; its about securing votes. National Republican Congressional Committee Chair Richard Hudson echoes this sentiment, stating that this amnesty plan has Biden kowtowing to the same left-wing radicals who pushed him to throw open the border in the first place.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

Beyond the obvious political motivations, there are significant legal and ethical concerns. How is it that an executive order can grant such sweeping changes in immigration policy without going through the proper legislative channels? If this executive action isnt challenged, whats stopping the administration from extending similar amnesty to millions more? This sets a dangerous precedent where the rule of law is overshadowed by executive orders, effectively undermining the democratic process.

Impacts on American Society

The influx of 500,000 newly legalized foreigners will undoubtedly strain Americas social services, educational systems, and public safety infrastructure. Already, school districts are bursting at the seams, and cities are grappling with an increase in homeless encampments. The financial burden on American taxpayers will be immense, costing many billions of dollars, perhaps trillions. As Mark Krikorian from the Center for Immigration Studies points out, the global influx using the worlds busiest corridor of illegal migration  from Mexico into the U.S.  has created a virtually irreversible situation in the country.

Crime and Public Safety

While studies may be ambiguous on whether there is a direct link between immigration and crime rates, the fact remains that high-profile crimes committed by illegal aliens do happen. For instance, the murders of Rachel Morin in Maryland and Georgia student Laken Riley highlight the potential risks. As Krikorian emphasizes, these victims allegedly died at the hands of suspects who shouldn't have been in the U.S. in the first place. This is a direct consequence of Bidens lax immigration policies.

The Road Ahead

House Republicans need to step up and challenge this executive order. As Speaker Mike Johnson has stated, this amnesty plan will only incentivize more illegal immigration and endanger Americans. Its not enough to criticize; concrete actions need to be taken to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety and security of American citizens. The future of our republic hangs in the balance of the fortitude and actions taken by Mike Johnson and House Republicans.

Michael Letts is the founder and CEO of InVest USA, a charitable organization providing bulletproof active shooter vests to law enforcement officers. He is a vocal advocate for police safety and public security, frequently contributing to discussions on national security and law enforcement issues.

Image generated by AI.
I want to direct your attention to a Joe Cunningham essay in which he posits that the Chinese military is in trouble. Hes almost certainly right. The problem with communism is that it reduces societies to the lowest common denominator of any behavior and, as people scrabble for advancement in a controlled system, it invites corruption.

Writing at Red State, Cunningham points out purges and problems regarding Chinas military:

The Chinese President is calling for deep reflection among his military forces as he renews his focus on corruption, which has plagued China in recent months. His call comes after what the Wall Street Journal describes as a purge that has brought down more than a dozen senior generals and defense-industry executives. Recently, Xi was embarrassed to find that missiles were filled with water rather than fuel, with officials pocketing the money meant to make the missiles fly.

Just today, the Wall Street Journal was back with more news about Chinas military problems. The story is behind the Journals paywall, but the first paragraph tells you a lot:

Chinese leader Xi Jinping ordered a redoubled campaign to eradicate graft and enforce loyalty in the military, suggesting no end to a purge in the countrys defense establishment that has raised questions about Beijings ability to wage war.

In his speech to top military officials, Xi pointed to problems with discipline, ethics, ideology, and moral character, all of which are permeating the military.

I agree with Cunningham that Xis concerns reflect a real issue rather than being a communist chiefs periodic reminder to the military about whos in charge and the fate that can befall those who run afoul of him. No doubt they all know that, in 2016, Kim Jong-un executed two of his senior officials using anti-aircraft guns. Despots dont like being made to look bad.

Here are my three reasons for believing Xi isnt just posturing but is actually worried:

Image: A Chinese military parade. YouTube screen grab.

1. Chinas former one-child policy, which resulted in a huge surplus of males, also resulted in a surplus of weak men coddled by their families. These children, who came to be known as little emperors, are risk-averse and non-competitive, and the young men are neurotic.

In other words, even though China still recognizes the sex binary, it has its own version of the soy-boy personality in its society, and thats going to affect its military.

2. Communism breeds corruption. As we see in Americas institutionseverything from the government to our own military to academiamerit is no longer a factor in advancement. Instead, ideological correctness is the primary consideration in leftist systems. However, a system dominated by the ideologically pure rather than the competent inevitably collapses under its own weight. The mission gives way to in-fighting and profiteering.

Whats happening to the Chinese military now is a foretaste of the imminent collapse of our own institutions unless theyre put back on a merit track.

3. Communism breeds substandard quality. When merit has no reward, people do substandard work. We see that in every product that comes out of China. The artisans, craftsmen, and small farmers who once labored to produce the best for their own pleasure and economic benefit have been wiped out in a country thats one giant factory assembly line. You do enough to get by and not one iota more. Chinese equipment looks great, but its still built in Chinese factories.

Again, were seeing this across America. There is no room for an individuals pride in his work when he is a widget in a state-focused rather than an individual-focused system.

While any military, of necessity, cannot have too much individualism, the best militaries are still made up of people who see themselves as having individual value and who take pride in whatever they do. Chinas little emperors cannot be those people.

None of this, of course, means that the Chinese military isnt a force to be reckoned with. Its huge, meaning that, as was the case with the Soviet Union after the Nazis invaded, it has enough bodies to absorb whatever its enemy throws at it and still come back with more troops. The Nazis were the better fighting force, but the combination of a limitless Red Army and a cold winter defeated them on their Eastern front.

Still, Xi does have a problem. He can fix it for a while through the coercion of fear. However, eventually, even fear is an insufficient glue to hold together an inherently unstable system.
Israel's Benny Gantz, who until June 13 served in Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu's cabinet as a minister without portfolio, is an Israeli politician and retired general with a more-than-impressive resume.



Along with his long and courageous military career, fighting for Israel since the early seventies, he has held high offices as Minister of Defense, Minister of Justice, Deputy Prime Minister, Speaker of the Knesset, and founder of what is now known as the National Unity Party. With the war's beginning on Oct. 7, he became Minister without portfolio in the Israeli cabinet.



In that last position, which he held until a few days ago, it came about almost concomitant with Israels counterattack on Hamas, launched a few days after Hamas bloodcurdling Oct. 7 attack on Israeli citizens and brutal taking of hostages. At the time, Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu formed a six-member war Cabinet.

The Cabinet was composed of three active decision members, and three observers. The decision makers were Netanyahu, Gantz and Israeli Defense Minister Yael Gallant.



Almost from the outset, tensions simmered between Netanyahu and Gantz.

For eight months, Bibi forged ahead with his plan to destroy Hamas in order that another Oct. 7 massacre would never occur again.

Gantz pushed for more deals with Hamas in order to obtain the release of more hostages. But the problem with Gantzs focus on freeing the remaining hostages is that Hamas has repeatedly stated that they are not interested in more hostage deals.

Moreover the sinister Hamas mastermind and leader, Yayha Sinwar, echoes the no more hostage release sentiment.



In fact, Sinwar has openly crowed that he had Israel exactly where he wanted them: internationally isolated and vilified, global Jew-hatred rampant, and Israel a country ideologically divided.



Frequent protests crowd Israels streets, with one side demanding the return of all hostages, regardless the price. The other half of the populace exhorts Israel to score a decisive victory against Hamas in order to quell the chances of another Oct. 7.



Against this complicated backdrop, yesterday, drama king Gantz resigned from the war Cabinet, taking one of the three observers, Gadi Eisenkot, along with him.



Astonishingly, Sinwar was quoted in the June 18, 2024 edition of the Wall Street Journal boasting of how he had kept two of his specialized Hamas brigades from the current fighting. His goal was to have them fresh and ready to swoop up control and governance of Gaza on the day after the fighting stops.



As with the oxymoronic two-state solution myth that will not die, Sinwars revelation bolsters Netanyahus quest for total Hamas defeat.

Israel cannot coexist with an entity hell bent on its destruction.

Image: U.S. Department of State, via Wikipedia // public domain
See also Andrea Widburgs The White House lashes out frantically at those saying something is wrong with Biden

Leftwing outlets and pundits got a dose of their own medicine, and theyre not taking it well at allit all stemmed from a piece by Annie Linskey and Siobhan Hughes that ran in The Wall Street Journal earlier this month, which reported that behind closed doors Cadaver Joe shows signs of slipping in his cognitive capacity.

At least, thats the story according to personal interviews with more than 45 people over several months, both Democrats and Republicans, who either participated in meetings with Biden or were briefed on them after the factand anyone who has a brain, functioning eyesight, and the ability to hear. Bidens signs of slipping arent just appearing behind closed doors, theyre in your face every time hes seen or heard in public, and thats not hyperbole.

Remember this?

Wrong way Joe

lost at the G7

lost on the White House lawn



How many times will Joe Biden get lost before he gets a cognitive test? pic.twitter.com/nZ8hmW0lAZ  Tricia Flanagan (R-NJ) (@NewDayForNJ) August 12, 2021

The agent seen above, pointing like hes an air marshal on the tarmac, at some point figured Biden could handle the task at hand (remain on the path and walk into the building) and took off around through the lawn so as not to appear like too much of a handler, but boy was he wrongBiden blazed off that sidewalk almost the moment that agent turned his back.

How many times can a president be escorted away by caretakers before we admit hes not all there? How many times does a president appear to soil his pants in public before we acknowledge what hes doing? Slurring so badly he cant be understood? Being described as too elderly to prosecute for his crimes? These arent indicators of wherewithal; even The New York Times published an article highlighting that a majority of Bidens own 2020 voters see him as too old and out of his mind.

But back to the WSJ articleafter publication, the item spread across the country, with many local anchors and reporters affiliated with Sinclair Media addressing the allegations of mental decline, which sent leftwing journalists into a tizzy.

Alexandra Petri writing for The Washington Post titled her piece Signs your Sinclair station is injecting propaganda into local news while Hafiz Rashid at The New Republic suggested there was a coordinated effort between Sinclair broadcasters, and X independent journalist Aaron Rupar accused the media conglomerate of deceptive attacks against Biden:

New in PN: Sinclair injects deceptive attacks on Biden's age into dozens of local broadcasts (a special collaboration with @JuddLegum) https://t.co/pYcwGUDrUS



Check out this video showing local Sinclair anchors reading from the same script  pic.twitter.com/a9kVJK4Ncr  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 11, 2024

Again, do these people realize we can see him? His senility is not exactly a secret.

Petri accused Sinclair of injecting propaganda into the public programming, but reporting on his mental decline is just plain old newsyet, shes so saturated in her own delusion, Im going to wager she actually cant see the irony.

Did WaPo play a role in peddling the very fine people hoax, a lie which still persists? Oh you know it.

Has WaPo ever published pieces referring to Trump as a fascist on a mission to usher in an anti-democratic dictatorship? Yes, and please see the respective hyperlinks.

Did WaPo run editorials that said it was okay to compare Trump to Adolf Hitler? You betcha.

Did WaPo, against all fact and reason, refer to events of January 6th as an insurrection? Too many times to count.

Did WaPo have anything to do with giving credibility to the debunked Steele Dossier and did the outlet ever push the Russian collusion narrative? Yes, again.

Thats just the WaPo propaganda that comes to my mind!

Someone get these poor people some Valium.

Hat tip: Jack Hellner.

Image: YouTube video screen grab.
Back in the late 1960s our family lived in Wisconsin and drove down to Chicago many times every year to shop at a Cuban store.

It turns out that there was a fellow Cuban who opened a store and imported stuff from Miami for people like us to consume.

As I recall, there were many things to purchase, from black beans to " pastel de guayaba " (king of all Cuban pastries) to strong Cuban coffee.

We usually drove back fully loaded until my mom reminded my dad that supplies were short. So we drove our Ford Galaxy 500 back to Chicago listening to Top 40 WLS radio.

Chicago was such a different city back then. It was clean, orderly and we did not hear about weekend shootings. I also remember the store owner's son telling me that it was so cool to live in a city with a team in both leagues, i.e., Cubs and Sox.

Maybe this is why I am always so shocked to hear about the decline of what I remember as a great city.

Here is another weekend of deaths and shootings. This is the awful story

The shooting victims from over the weekend range in age from 13 to 57, representing various parts of the city, and the violence has some seeking new solutions. South Lawndale residents met with police on Monday following a staggering number of weekend shootings. At least 71 people were shot, nine of them killed, across the city from Friday evening to Monday morning, police said.
Off the coast of Cornwall, on the English Channel, about 14 km south of Rame Head, lies a group of rocks, half submerged and half exposed, known as the Eddystone Rocks. These seaswept and eroded formations have been a hazard for ships for centuries. Mariners entering the English Channel feared them so much that they often hugged the coast of France to avoid the danger. This avoidance led to shipwrecks not only locally but also on the rocks of the north coast of France and the Channel Islands. Consequently, it was decided that a lighthouse was needed directly upon the treacherous rocks.

Painting by Charles Henry Seaforth depicting HMS Forte sailing past the Eddystone Lighthouse.

The first lighthouse on the Eddystone Rocks was a wooden structure built between 1696 and 1698. Exposed to the relentless crashing of the waves, the lighthouse required repairs before its first year was complete. Subsequently, it was changed to a stone-clad exterior on a timber-framed construction with an octagonal top section. The lighthouse lasted four more years before the great storm of 1703 erased almost all traces of it. The engineer who built the lighthouse, Henry Winstanley, was inside the structure that night making repairs. He perished along with the lighthouse.

Following the destruction of the first Eddystone lighthouse, a second lighthouse was built in 1709. In contrast to its predecessor, the second tower was smooth and conical, built on a base of solid wood topped by a stone structure. This substructure rose to a height of 63 feet and was interspersed with layers of wood to serve as ballast. On top of this foundation were four stories of timber, sheathed in vertical wooden planks and caulked like the hull of a ship. To ensure the construction's integrity, two master-shipwrights from Woolwich Dockyard were brought in for this addition. An octagonal lantern crowned the tower, which first shone from the lighthouse in 1708.

The lighthouse was designed by John Rudyard, a silk merchant who was neither a trained architect nor a professional engineer. Despite his lack of formal training, the tower he designed proved more durable than its predecessor, serving its purpose on the reef for nearly 50 years, until one fateful night in December 1755.

A painting of Rudyard's lighthouse by Isaac Sailmaker.

That evening, there were three keepers in the lighthouse, the oldest of whom was Henry Hall, who was 94 years old. Despite his incredible age, Hall was said to be of good constitution and active for his years. In the early hours of December 2, Hall was on duty, when, during a routine inspection of the lantern room he found it to be on fire. Immediately Hall threw open the trap door of the lantern room, but in doing so he inadvertently allowed fresh wind from the outside to fuel the flames, causing them to burn with greater intensity. With no time to awaken his companions, Hall grabbed a leather bucket and from a tub of rainwater that was kept in the lantern gallery, began throwing water into the lead cupola which conducted the candle smoke out through the vent in the roof. The fire had likely started from a spark emitted by a cracked chimney pipe leading from the kitchen stove below, which traveled through the lantern room and out through the roof. The lead covering over the candles, encrusted with soot and grease from nearly half a century of candle burning, had readily caught fire.

Halls companions eventually woke up and joined him in his effort to save the burning tower, but it was too late. Flames had already engulfed the lantern roof causing lead to melt and drip down upon Halls head and neck and over his clothes as he stood below hurling water towards the flaming room. At that moment, Hall had a violent sensation from within. God help me, Im on fire inside!, he screamed and explained to his companions that a nugget of molten lead had dropped into his open mouth and passed down his throat.

Its not known how Halls companions might have reacted to this suspicious claim, but there was no time to dwell upon it. The heat of the flames was becoming unbearable, and the three men escaped out of the tower to take shelter in a cave on the east side of the rock. At ten oclock in the morning, after the fire had been burning for eight hours, some boatmen found the frightened, weary and sea-drenched men. They hauled them through the icy water on the end of a rope and into the boat.

Henry Hall, who was still complaining about the metal he had swallowed, was taken to Stonehouse, near Plymouth, and was placed under the supervision of Dr. Henry Spry. The doctor was understandably skeptical of Halls story about swallowing molten lead. Dr. Spry could scarcely believe it possible for any human being to survive after ingesting molten lead, much less endure towing through rough seas. Additionally, Hall was not exhibiting other symptoms typically associated with such an injury, leading Dr. Spry to reason that the trauma of the accident and Hall's advanced age were causing him to make wild claims.

On the 6th day after the accident, Hall made a slight recovery. He regularly took his medicines, and had no difficulty swallowing food, both solid and liquid, until the 10th day when he suddenly grew worse. On the 12th day, Henry Hall died being seized with cold sweats and spasms.

Dr. Spry conducted an autopsy on Hall, and made the following report on the condition of the stomach:

Examining the body, and making an incision through the left abdomen, I found the diaphragmatic upper mouth of the stomach greatly inflamed and ulcerated, and the tunica in the lower part of the stomach burnt; and from the great cavity of it took out a great piece of lead ... which weighed exactly seven ounces, five drachms and eighteen grains (about 208 grams).

The piece of lead taken from the stomach of Henry Hall after the fire of 1755. Photo credit: National Museums Scotland

Dr. Spry reported the incredible case to the Royal Society, but it was met with such skepticism that he felt compelled to conduct his own experiments to determine whether any living being could survive after ingesting molten lead.

Dr. Spry poured molten lead, by means of a funnel, down the throat of a small dog, which had eaten nothing for 24 hours, and kept the dog afterwards without food or drink. The dog was killed the next day and his stomach, when cut open, was found to be much corrugated, but its internal coat was not excoriated.

In another experiment, Dr. Spry fed a large dog with milk and soon afterwards poured molten lead down his throat. The dog, according to the doctor, showed no reaction and heartily ate more milk that was offered. The dog lived for three days without any affliction before he was killed and autopsied. Dr. Spry noted that the pharynx and cardiac orifice of the stomach were a little inflamed and excoriated, but the esophagus and stomach seemed in no manner affected.

Dr. Spry performed similar experiments on fowls with alike results. Only after an account of these experiments were presented to the Royal Society, Dr. Sprys paper was published in the Societys magazine.

The lump of lead retrieved from Henry Halls stomach is now kept in the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh. There is a also small plaque dedicated to Henry Hall with a few details as to the nature of this death located in Plymouth city centre.

Henry Halls plaque in the Plymouth City Centre. Photo credit: ZepherusWIKI

References:

# Christopher P. Nicholson, Rock Lighthouses of Britain: The End of an Era?

# H. Bailliere, The Zoist, Volume 11
AT&T announced an increased price for customers who are part of the retired unlimited wireless plans by up to $20 per month starting this August.

The telecom company detailed that the plan will add high-speed data, hotspot data, and other benefits as part of the price hike.

AT&T Increases Price Again for Specific Users

On a support page, AT&T shared that it will be increasing the monthly charge on most of its retired unlimited wireless plans. The company cited additional benefits that will come with the increased price to support the new price range.

Plans such as AT&T Unlimited Choice, Choice II, Choice Enhanced, Unlimited & More, and Unlimited Value will now have 75GB of high-speed data and 30GB of hotspot data.

Users of AT&T Unlimited Plus, Plus Enhanced, Unlimited & More Premium, and AT&T Unlimited (with TV) will be receiving 100GB of high-speed data and 60GB of hotspot data.

The existing subscribers of retired unlimited wireless plans will not be required to transition to a new plan. All existing benefits will remain in the plan, along with the additional data.

AT&T Promotes Newer Plans Amid Price Hike to Retire Tiers

On the other hand, customers are still open to exploring the current plan options of the company. For instance, the Unlimited Premium PL offers unlimited calls and text, high-speed data to 19 Latin American countries, 4K UHD streaming, 5G access, and more.

Other plans such as the Unlimited Extra EL and Unlimited Starter both provide 5G access, generous hotspot data, advanced mobile security, and unlimited talk and text.

Users of the retired unlimited wireless plans will start seeing the price change on their August bill. Customers with a single line of service will get a $10 monthly increase while multiple lines will cost an additional $20.
Currently, the default power that Android detects as fast charging is 7.5W. This figure is far behind the big advances in modern industry. However, that could change with Android 15, raising the threshold to 20W.

The Android market is full of options with support for high-power fast charging. Commercially, you can find devices with up to 240W fast charging. Meanwhile, brands like Redmi and Realme are even working on reaching 300W. On the other hand, the Android fast charging detection system has not changed at the same rate.

Android 15 would finally tweak the 7.5W fast charging threshold

Android (AOSP) recognizes fast charging when your device receives 7.5W of power. That said, each manufacturer is completely free to tweak these values to adjust them to their own fast-charging technologies. However, Google Pixels use the default values set in the AOSP code. This can make it a little difficult for Pixel users to determine if their chargers are working correctly. After all, your lock screen will show a Fast charging message even though your device is receiving less than 8W.

Its noteworthy that Google Pixel devices have not kept pace with the rest of the industry with respect to charging power. The Pixel 8 Pro, the brands most premium mobile, supports a maximum of 30W. So, it is possible that this lack of progress has been carried over to the AOSP code. Anyway, a recent finding suggests that Android 15 would detect fast charging starting at 20W.

It would mainly help Google Pixel users

Considering the advances available in the industry, 20W still seems a bit short. However, it makes sense considering that Google Pixel devices are the ones that use AOSP fast charging detection. Other manufacturers probably tweak the values to adapt them to the possibilities of their devices. Nor are major advances expected in terms of fast charging for the Pixels in the short term.

The source found the new 20W value in the latest Android 15 beta. However, it is not implemented yet, so the phones running that version still detect fast charging by receiving only 7.5W. Google is expected to definitively push the new values in the first Android 15 stable update. It is even possible that it will occur in future Android 15 betas.

Although this tweak wont change your life, it will make things easier. Now Google Pixel users will actually know if their devices are charging at relatively high power.
Samsung is rapidly completing the formalities before launching its new foldables and watches. The company has already put up official support pages for the devices on its website. It has also obtained several regulatory certifications for its upcoming products, including the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Galaxy Z Flip 6, Galaxy Watch 7, and Galaxy Watch Ultra. The devices have just passed a couple more regulatory hurdles on their way to launch next month.

Samsungs Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Watch 7 pass more regulatory hurdles

The folks over at MySmartPrice recently discovered the Galaxy Z Fold 6 on the official website of the Singaporean regulatory body IMDA (Infocomm Media Development Authority). The agency listed the device with the model number SM-F956B/DS, which is the dual-SIM variant of its global version. The US version has the model numbers SM-F956U and SM-F956U1, with dual-SIM variants adding the DS suffix to the model number.

Separately, the publication found a similar certification listing for the Galaxy Watch 7 on an Indonesian telecom authoritys website. It mentioned the model number SM-L300 for the upcoming Samsung smartwatch along with its marketing name (Galaxy Watch 7). Its the 40mm Bluetooth version version. The 44mm variant has the model number SM-L310, while their LTE models bear the identifiers SM-L305 and SM-L315, respectively.

These listings dont reveal anything new we dont already know about the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Watch 7. However, they indicate Samsung is closing in on the launch event. It hasnt officially announced the date yet but there is enough evidence on the internet suggesting a July 10 unveiling of these products. Along with the new foldables and watches, the company may also launch new wireless earbuds and the Galaxy Ring at the event.

Leaks have already revealed a lot about these devices

Samsungs next Unpacked may still be three weeks away, but there isnt much left to know about the devices in the pipeline. Leaks have already revealed a lot about them, particularly the new foldables. The Korean firm is making them thinner and wider. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 also gets a titanium frame, while the Galaxy Z Flip 6 is picking up a new 50MP primary rear camera. There arent other major hardware upgrades to look forward to.

For smartwatch enthusiasts, Samsungs Galaxy Watch Ultra could be of great interest. Its the companys first Ultra-branded watch. The wearable has a titanium body, a big battery, a big and bright display, a new chipset (probably Samsungs first 3nm chip), and a lot more. Unsurprisingly, it will cost big too, with rumors suggesting a launch price of $700 and above. Stay tuned for the official announcement in a few weeks.
Display Supply Chain Consultants has released its latest report for the global OLED tablet panel market. The reports data shows that Huaweis OLED market share has increased to 25 percent in Q1 2024. The company took second place after Apple in the global OLED tablet panel shipment race. The report also mentions that the Q1 2024 OLED tablet panel shipments jumped 131 percent year-on-year to a record high.

Huawei is closing in on Apple who still leads the pack with its new OLED iPads

DSCCs latest data shows that Huawei is threatening Apples dominance in the OLED tablet market. The company is already putting pressure on the iPhone shipments in the Chinese market. It is now doing the same in the global OLED tablet shipments. For Huawei, a major credit goes to the MatePad Pro 11, which accounted for 11 percent of the market. The slate will continue to lead in procurement volumes in Q2 2024 as well.

While Huawei is seeing growth, it still has a lot of ground to cover. As per the report, the iPad maker is ruling the Q1 2024 OLED tablet panel race. The company procured a total share of 47 percent ahead of the launch of the new OLED iPad Pro models, which arrived in May. The 13-inch M4 iPad Pro procured the highest number of OLED panels at 35 percent. It was followed by its 11.1-inch smaller sibling, which had a total share of 12.5 percent.

Overall OLED tablet panel shipments grew an impressive 131 percent YoY

The Q1 2024 was exceptional for the OLED tablet panel market as the total shipments rose 131 percent year-on-year. They are expected to jump another 127 percent quarter-on-quarter and 333 percent YoY in Q2 2024. In the second quarter, it will be another record high as Apple has ramped up the production and shipments of the OLED iPad Pro models.

Furthermore, DSCCs latest analysis suggests that OLED tablet panel shipments will continue to grow through 2028 as the price gap with LCDs narrows. By 2025, OLED tablets are expected to grab a 16 percent unit share and 55 percent revenue share. Apart from the leading three  Apple, Huawei, and Samsung  there will be more brands joining the OLED tablet market.
The Motorola Razr 50 series will launch on June 25. Motorola will host both an event in China and a global event on said date. As were waiting for that to happen, some new Motorola Razr 50 series images popped up, showing us different color options.

The Motorola Razr 50 series color options get shown via seemingly-official images

Two new images dropped, one for the Razr 50, and the other for the Razr 50 Ultra. As you can see, in the gallery below the article, different colors of each phone are shown here.

As reported earlier, the Motorola Razr 50 is coming in Gray, Orange and Sand colors. The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra, on the flip side, will arrive in Blue, Green, and Peach variants.

We get to see two out of three colors for each phone here. That green Motorola Razr 50 Ultra model looks especially good in our eyes, its nice to see a bit of variety when it comes to colors.

The two phones will look very similar, with one glaring difference

Youll notice that the two phones look very similar. The Ultra model has less of a bezel around the cover display, its cover display is larger overall. Other than that, youd have problems seeing the difference between them.

Both phones will have a foldable display with a centered display camera hole at the top. Main cameras will be placed inside the cover display, basically, and the same goes for an LED flash.

Motorolas Ultra Razr handset will be more powerful, of course

The Motorola Razr 50 Ultra will be the more powerful phone of the two. It will ship with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 SoC, Qualcomms brand new chip. Two 50-megapixel cameras are also expected, and a 6.9-inch main display. The cover display will measure 4 inches.

The Motorola Razr 50, on the flip side, is said to come with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300X chip. It will have a 50-megapixel main camera and a 13-megapixel ultrawide unit. Its cover display will be a bit smaller at 3.6 inches.
Samsungs Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ may not get upgraded main cameras, both on the front and back. Well, we dont have specifics about the sensors, but the resolution will reportedly remain unchanged. The devices will feature a 50MP primary shooter on the back and a 12MP selfie camera. Details about the ultrawide and zoom cameras on the back are missing. The new flagships are still months away, so it isnt surprising.

Samsung may reuse its aging 50MP camera on the Galaxy S25

The base and Plus models of Samsungs flagship smartphones have featured a 50MP primary rear camera since 2022. However, while the Galaxy S22 and Galaxy S22+ used the ISOCELL GN5 sensor, the company switched to the ISOCELL GN3 in 2023. This years models also use the latter. Its unclear if the 2025 lineup will keep the same sensor or get a new one, but a resolution upgrade doesnt seem to be on the cards.

The same applies to the selfie camera of the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+. Samsung is reportedly equipping the phones with a 12MP unit, unchanged from the 2023 and 2024 models (the 2022 lineup had a 10MP selfie shooter). Once again, sensor details are missing, so we cant confirm if its the same camera hardware or something new. However, we doubt that Samsung will introduce a new 12MP selfie camera on its 2025 flagships.

Dutch publication GalaxyClub, the source of this information, doesnt have details about the upcoming Galaxy flagships ultrawide and zoom cameras. Interestingly, a previous leak from a prolific industry insider said the Galaxy S25 Ultra will get newer sensors for the Ultrawide and 3x zoom cameras. The next-gen Ultra will reportedly feature a 50MP ultrawide lens instead of 12MP and a 50MP 3x zoom camera instead of 10MP.

Since the other two models usually share the ultrawide and 3x zoom cameras with the Ultra, theres a possibility that the upgraded sensors will make it into the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S25+ too. We have more reasons to expect that as the Ultra model is said to keep the same 200MP main camera as its siblings. Its 50MP 5x zoom camera will also reportedly carry over unchanged. We dont have details about its selfie camera.

The 2025 Samsung flagships may come costlier

Samsung will launch the Galaxy S25 series in early 2025. There is still a lot of time before the company starts production. However, early rumors suggest the new flagships will come costlier. The Korean firm may ship the devices with Qualcomms Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 globally because of yield issues with the Exynos 2500. Since Qualcomm is raising the prices of its next-gen chip, Samsung may charge more for the Galaxy S25 trio. We should get a clearer picture in the coming months.
Samsung may delay the launch of Android 15-based One UI 7.0 for Galaxy devices. A noted industry insider recently claimed that the company is prioritizing the development of One UI 6.1.1 for the Galaxy S24 series, pushing the next One UI version to the backseat. One UI 6.1.1 is based on Android 14 and arrives with new foldables next month.

One UI 7.0 faces delay as Samsung prioritizes One UI 6.1.1 with AI features

Every year, Samsungs new foldables introduce a new One UI build based on the current Android version. These are minor updates particularly focused on tablets and foldables, with fewer new features and improvements for regular smartphones. The company doesnt take long to bring it to other eligible models. It wraps up the rollout within a few weeks.

However, rumors say it wont be the case this year. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 will introduce Android 14-based One UI 6.1.1, and itll be a bigger update than usual. It will bring new AI features and camera fixes for the Galaxy S24 series. The scope of this update is too big for Samsung to quickly wrap it up and move on to Android 15-based One UI 7.0. To ensure a bug-free release of One UI 6.1.1, the company plans to delay the Android update.

We dont have any dates to report, but tipster Ice Universe says Samsung will begin the One UI 6.1.1 rollout for the Galaxy S24 series in August. If you recall, the Galaxy S23 series received its first Android 14-based One UI 6.0 beta in the second week of August. This tells us that we are looking at a delay of at least a couple of weeks. Thats unless Samsung decides to release One UI 6.1.1 and One UI 7.0 beta simultaneously, which is unlikely.

The stable Android 15 update could still arrive in time

Even if Samsung starts the One UI 7.0 public beta a couple of weeks late, it may catch up later. The company could speed up the development of the new One UI version to ensure a timely release of the stable update. Last year, it tested One UI 6.0 for almost three months before the stable release, which arrived in late October after nine beta builds. Samsung could do the same job in less time this year to make up for a delayed beta launch.

Like before, the Galaxy S24 series should be the first to get One UI 7.0, both beta and stable builds. We will keep a close eye on Samsungs community forums for more clues and information about release dates. The companys One UI beta programs have always been limited to seven countries: China, Germany, India, Poland, South Korea, the UK, and the US. Time will tell whether it adds more markets for One UI 7.0 beta this year.
Sonys PlayStation Portal makes it easy to play your PlayStation games almost anywhere, including public Wi-Fi locations. Theres only one issue with connecting to public Wi-Fi to enjoy your PS5 library in the palm of your hands  Wi-Fi networks that require an additional login to connect. Prior to now, this requirement for additional authentication would stop the Portal dead in its tracks. But no longer.

Sony has confirmed a new update has been sent out to the PlayStation Portal that rectifies this issue. Alongside this feature, Sony says the new update also adds in a couple of other changes. This includes enhanced visual effects for touch controls and new battery information. The update to the PlayStation Portal goes out on June 19. So make sure to power it on tomorrow if you want the update right away.

PlayStation Portal now supports public Wi-Fi locations with additional sign-in screens

If youve been to a hotel or an airport and ever tried to use the public Wi-Fi there, then youre likely aware of the additional sign-in screens that appear on these networks when you try to connect to them. You generally end up having to open a link that asks you to sign in by checking a box and clicking a connect button. The PlayStation Portal will now support these kinds of networks by having users scan a QR code link with their phone.

You can then open the browser on your phone to finalize that additional authentication. After doing this your PlayStation Portal should connect to the network just fine. Sony of course still recommends using the Portal at home. And its easy to understand why. Its your own personal Wi-Fi network so youre able to control its connection speed and reliability.

In doing so, you more or less already know how good the experience in streaming games from your PS5 should be. This isnt usually the case with public Wi-Fi. Not to mention the kind of congestion that can occur due to how many people may be using the same network. Still, PlayStation Portal users will no doubt be happy to know this updated support now exists.

Keeping tabs on battery life is now easier than ever

In addition to the new public W-Fi support, Sony is also adding a battery percentage meter to the battery indicator. Following the update youll be able to see how much battery life is left with a percentage instead of just a battery icon. This should allow users to get a better grip on how much battery they actually have left before needing to plug in the handheld.

One last minor change the update is adding are improved visual effects for the emulated touchpad. Now, tapping the touchpad area results in a brief flash. While swiping on it reveals the line of the swipe direction.
Sonys new BRAVIA 3 TV, which was announced just a couple of months ago, is already seeing some pretty nice discounts over at Best Buy. All sizes are discounted, starting with the 43-inch model, which is $100 off, making it $499. Heres the complete list of sizes and prices:

43  $499 (reg. $599)

50  $599 (reg. $699)

55  $699 (reg. $849)

65  $799 (reg. $999)

75  $999 (reg. $1,299)

85  $1,599 (reg. $1,799)

The BRAVIA 3 is Sonys new low-end TV model, which is really not all that low-end. Its still a brilliant LED TV with Sonys own 4K HDR Processor X1, which makes the picture look incredible, including upscaling non-4K content. With Sonys Triluminous Pro, youre going to get over a billion accurate colors for lifelike picture quality that is vivid and bright.

Of course, Sony is still using Google TV for the software on its TVs. This means youre getting all of the apps you could ever want, including Netflix, Apple TV+, Paramount+, Peacock, MAX, and much more. It also brings along Google Cast and Google Assistant. Making for an incredible TV-watching experience.

Those gamers out there, Sony hasnt forgotten about you. For the PlayStation 5, you get Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode. Unfortunately, at this price, youre not getting 4K120 since there is no HDMI 2.1 available on this TV.

With the BRAVIA 3, Sony has included four HDMI ports (including one eARC), a LAN port, two USB-A ports, an Optical and a coaxial port. Which should give you just about everything you could need on a TV in 2024.

Buy at Best Buy
Over 1,100 students and young workers have pledged not to take jobs or internships at Google and Amazon over their involvement in Project Nimbus, a $1.2 billion contract between the tech giants and the Israeli government. The students joined a campaign run by No Tech for Apartheid (NOTA), a coalition of tech workers demanding big companies to end their association with Israel.

Students refuse to work at Google and Amazon until they exit Project Nimbus

Announced in April 2021, Project Nimbus is an Israeli government initiative to empower government agencies, including the military, with next-gen technologies. Under this project, Google and Amazon provide the agencies with cloud computing services and infrastructure, including AI. While it was another business deal for the companies, the IsraeliPalestinian conflict has made the contract controversial.

Critics say Israel uses Google and Amazon technologies for unlawful data collection and surveillance of Palestinians to aid military operations in the region. Organizations like NOTA, company shareholders, and employees want the tech biggies to end the contract. This led to massive sit-in protests in Googles offices in April. Only for the company to fire dozens of employees involved in the protests.

In the meantime, NOTA launched a campaign urging STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students to avoid joining Google and Amazon. Students and young workers can sign an online pledge to show their support. As of this writing, 1,134 students from over 120 universities around the world have signed the pledge. The initial goal is to get 1,200 signs, so NOTA is very close to its goal.

As young people and students in STEM and beyond, we refuse to have any part in these horrific abuses. Were joining the #NoTechForApartheid campaign to demand Amazon and Google immediately end Project Nimbus, part of the pledge reads. NOTA alleges that Amazon and Google are providing some of the critical digital infrastructure powering Israels killing machine.

The tech firms are two of the biggest employees of STEM graduates

Studies have shown that Google and Amazon are two of the biggest employees of STEM graduates globally. Through this campaign, NOTA aims to disrupt the companies talent pipeline on university campuses. The organization has activists from the Muslim grassroots movement MPower Change and the advocacy group Jewish Voice for Peace. Amidst the ongoing genocide in Gaza, its more important than ever that the corporations doing business with Israels apartheid government are paying a price for their role in fueling mass atrocities, NOTA said.
Just like Marvel, DC is filled with powerful and interesting villains that are feared by even the strongest heroes. With DC being known to be darker than its rival, the movies can really get into how evil an antagonist can get. Here are some of the formidable villains in the DCEU.

8. Ares

The Greek god of war deserves a place on this list considering that well, he is a god. Unlike how he is portrayed in some texts and films, Ares in the DC universe is actually strategic and cunning, which makes him more dangerous than he already is. However, despite being a god, he was easily defeated by Diana or Wonder Woman, which puts him on the lower part of the list of powerful enemies.

7. Lex Luthor

Despite being human, his intelligence has gotten him so far that he was able to get Superman to do what he wanted at one point. Not only was he a genius in planning the destruction of his enemies, but he also had the resources to make things happen. That is a dangerous combination in any world.

6. Ra's al Ghul

Faced with supernatural and mythological forces, Ra's al Ghul and the League of Assassins will probably lose, but he has more than proven that he can be a difficult foe to human heroes like Batman. Even if he is wounded, he has access to Lazarus Pits, which can heal his wounds, and even prolong and restore his life.

5. Enchantress

Seeing as she is a sorceress, she definitely has an advantage over a few heroes in the DC film universe. She can project energy for offense and defense, fly, make her enemies hallucinate, possess individuals, control weather, stop time, have telekinetic powers, and many more that she can use to defeat those who oppose her. She doesn't even need combat to win a fight.

4. Doomsday

A behemoth of a monster, Doomsday is one of the most terrifying villains that heroes can encounter. For one, he's Kryptonian, which means that he is as invulnerable as Superman if not more. Of course, he also has the same weakness as any Kryptonian, which is Kryptonite, but with it being extremely limited, Doomsday can be a threat to all.

3. Steppenwolf

As we already saw on "Justice League," it took the whole team of supers to eventually take down the antagonist and his army of Parademons. He can jump great heights, has superhuman strength, and has the knowledge of warfare. He also has armor that adds to his resistance against attacks.

2. General Zod

The only disadvantage General Zod had was that he was new to Earth, and therefore had to learn to adjust existing under a yellow Sun, but he was just as powerful as Superman was. Plus, he had the advantage of having experience in military combat and other exprienced Kryptonians at his side. The movie shows how difficult it was for Clark to defeat him.

1. Darkseid

He was only shown briefly in "Zack Snyder's Justice League," but that now makes him a part of the DC film universe. Other than being immortal, he also has telepathy and telekinesis, as well as the ability to give powers to others. He's kind of like the combination of Thanos and Apocalypse. To show just how powerful he is, even Steppenwolf is afraid of him.
Jeremy Hunt said he faces a knife edge battle to win his seat in the face of a Liberal Democrat push to claim a high-profile scalp on July 4.

The Chancellor is standing in Godalming and Ash, a seat with a notional Conservative majority of more than 10,000.

But he said the newly-created Surrey seat was very marginal, while the Lib Dems view it as their opportunity for a Portillo moment on election night.

Sir Ed Davey campaigned in the Godalming and Ash seat in March (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

The Chancellor is facing a battle to win Godalming and Ash in Surrey, with the Liberal Democrats keen on taking a high-profile scalp.

Boundary changes mean Mr Hunt is standing in the newly created seat, which would have had a Conservative majority of 10,720 if it had been fought on those boundaries at the 2019 election.

In a reference to then-cabinet minister Michael Portillos election loss in 1997, Mr Hunt was asked whether he faced anew Portillo moment.

He told broadcasters: This is a very marginal constituency. Ive always treated it as a marginal constituency.

Im fighting for every vote. I think that I can win the seat. But I dont take anything for granted.

It is on a knife edge. And thats what Im knocking on doors for, six hours every day, meeting lots of people, making the arguments.
Women who are diagnosed with depression around the time they give birth appear to have a higher risk of heart problems in later life, according to a new study.

Those diagnosed with perinatal depression  which includes postnatal depression and depression during pregnancy  may be at higher risk of heart problems including high blood pressure; heart disease and heart failure for up to 20 years afterwards.

Swedish researchers said that the links between depression around childbirth and the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease are largely unknown as they published a study tracking women for more than a decade.

"The dark, intrusive thoughts and suicidal ideation were unbearable some days.. This #MaternalMentalHealthWeek, Natalie blogs about how she reached a terrible low with postnatal depression before developing an unconditional love for her baby  https://t.co/kKXmP3oPP7 pic.twitter.com/vMdqXNeo5B  Mind (@MindCharity) May 3, 2024

The study, published in the European Heart Journal, examined data on almost 56,000 women diagnosed with perinatal depression between 2001 and 2014.

Their information was matched to almost 546,000 who had babies during the same time period who were not diagnosed with perinatal depression.

The women were tracked an average of 10 years, with some monitored for up to 20 years after diagnosis.

Some 6.4% of women with perinatal depression were diagnosed with cardiovascular disease during the follow up, compared to 3.7% of those who were not diagnosed with depression.

If you are struggling, please dont suffer alone.' After a complicated birth, Sobhia reached out for help with her anxiety and postnatal depression, and now helps other new mums at @bsmhft. Find out more about the support available: https://t.co/khrKkBQ4Cb pic.twitter.com/piqcW2DqNr  NHS England (@NHSEngland) May 22, 2024

Researchers found that those diagnosed with perinatal depression had a 36% increased risk of cardiovascular disease during the follow-up period.

Women diagnosed with depression before childbirth had a 29% increased risk, while those diagnosed with postnatal depression had a 42% higher odds of developing heart disease, they found.

The results were most pronounced in women who had not suffered depression before pregnancy, the authors said.

They said the elevated risk was found across all types of cardiovascular disease, drawing particular attention to the increased odds of women developing ischemic heart disease, heart failure and high blood pressure.

Dr Emma Brann, from the Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, said: Our findings may help identify people who are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease so that steps can be taken to reduce this risk.

We know that perinatal depression is both preventable and treatable, and for many people its the first episode of depression theyve ever experienced.

Our findings provide more reason for ensuring maternal care is holistic, with equal attention on both physical and mental health.

It remains unclear how and through what pathways perinatal depression leads to cardiovascular disease. We need to do more research to understand this so that we can find the best ways to prevent depression and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Academics also analysed data on sisters, where available, and found that the increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease remained in the sister who experienced perinatal depression compared with her sister who had not experienced perinatal depression.

Women who suffered perinatal depression had a 20% higher risk of heart disease compared to their sisters.

The slightly lower difference in risk between sisters suggest that there could be genetic or familial factors partly involved, Dr Brann said.

There could also be other factors involved, as is the case for the link between other forms of depression and cardiovascular disease. These include alterations in the immune system, oxidative stress and lifestyle changes implicated in major depression.
Actress Sue Johnston has been congratulated on receiving the freedom of Liverpool by Sir Paul McCartney and Jurgen Klopp.

The Royle Family and Brookside star was joined by on-screen husband Ricky Tomlinson for a ceremony at Liverpool Town Hall on Tuesday evening.

Among those paying tribute to her in video messages played on the evening was Sir Paul, who was celebrating his 82nd birthday that day.

Heres the moment ex-Beatle Sir #PauMcCartney gave a surprise tribute to award-winning TV actress Sue Johnston at her Freedom of Liverpool ceremony in @TownHallLpool this evening.and offered to lend her some sheep to parade in the city! pic.twitter.com/2kTLgUdWUw  Liverpool City Council (@lpoolcouncil) June 18, 2024

The Beatle, who received the Freedom of Liverpool in 1984, said: It allowed me to take a flock of sheep through the city centre, so if you need a couple of sheep to borrow just to take them through the streets, Im your man.

Congratulations, darling, youre a lovely girl.

Johnston, who grew up in Prescot, Merseyside, put her head in her hands as former Liverpool manager Klopp appeared on screen with a message of congratulations.

She and Klopp, who received the freedom of Liverpool at a ceremony in 2022, were both nominated for the honour two years ago.

Johnston said: When they announced it on the same day as Jurgen that was breathtaking to me, that I was in the same sentence as Jurgen Klopp.

It was very emotional for me. I cried because I wanted to tell my dad, who loved Liverpool so much. I was so sad I couldnt tell him, and I know how proud he would have been.

I love Scousers. The wit, the heart, theyre cheeky. Just everything. They mean just so much to me. And to be granted the freedom of Liverpool means so much more than anything that Ive been awarded really.

Its humbling and to be in such great company. Especially with Jurgen.

Also joining her for the ceremony were Liverpool FC legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, film producer Colin McKeown, comedians Jonny Vegas and Joe Wilkinson, Shameless star David Threlfall, Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall and metro mayors Steve Rotheram and Andy Burnham.

The 80-year-old actress first made a television appearance in Coronation Street in 1982, before becoming known as Sheila Grant in Liverpool-based soap Brookside.

She received a BAFTA in 2000 for her performance as Barbara in The Royle Family and was made an OBE in 2009.
June 6th was a big day in the city of Carmel in northern California when they honored a famous French Bulldog with the first ever 'Bone to the City'. Walter Geoffrey is well known for being very vocal and always ready to have a dramatic meltdown when things don't go his way. He's TikTok famous and one of Carmel's favorite pooches.

Dave Potter, the Mayor of Carmel, did the honors and presented the bone to Walter in front of a small crowd outside of City Hall. Walter doesn't seem to be paying much attention, but his mom is, and she looks very excited about the award. Watch until the end to see Walter's reaction (the one we all expected) and to read the proclamation about why Walter deserves the honor.

Walter totally deserves this honor! Walter's mom said in her caption that Carmel is the #1 most dog-friendly city in the U.S. and while I'm not sure that that's true, they sure welcomed Walter with open arms!

People left more than 800 comments, and of course, many of them were about how quiet Walter was the ordeal. @KR said, "Quietest Ive seen Walter LOL! Love Walter!!" Curlygirlv laughed, "Suddenly the cat had Walters tongue!" and @yarn dynasty added, "Congratulations Walter He was soaking it up, playing shy, and not a word of disapproval!" Another commenter pointed out, "Im surprised Walter didnt have a speech prepared...he just gave you his thoughts beforehand."

Related: French Bulldogs' Dramatic Standoff at the Beach Is Worthy of an Oscar

Dog Friendly Cities in the U.S.

There are some major cities that really love their dogs, and they go out of their way to welcome them into their restaurants, shops, parks, and more. If you're lucky enough to live in one of those cities, it's a pet parent's haven!

Forbes recently shared their list of top dog-friendly cities, with San Francisco topping the list. One of the key takeaways when ranking the list was that the best cities for dogs have "a fair number of dog parks and access to parks within a 10-minute walk." San Francisco won the title because "All residents (100%) have access to a park within a 10-minute walk and there are a high number of dog parks per 100,000 residents (4.2)." Henderson, Nevada, Denver, Colorado, Albuquerque, New Mexico and Portland, Oregon were the rest of the Top 5 cities.

But if you ask dog lovers, I'm sure the list would be varied. Knoxville, Tennessee is hoping to take over Forbes' #1 spot and introduced us all to 'Barxville' and why anybody with a dog should visit the city. They shared the city's highlights by filming a movie that was specifically geared towards dogs. There are colors, sounds, and sights that all dogs love, and if you have a dog, I highly recommend checking the cute movie out!

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(Photo : Pexels/Tiger Lily)

California's labor regulator on Tuesday imposed a fine of nearly $6 million on Amazon for breaching a state law intended to limit the imposition of demanding warehouse productivity quotas.

The California Labor Commissioner's Office reported conducting investigations at two Amazon facilities in Moreno Valley and Redlands, situated east of Los Angeles. There, they discovered 59,017 violations of the state's Warehouse Quotas law, which have emerged as a significant concern among Amazon employees.

The Warehouse Quotas Law

The "Warehouse Quotas" law was implemented in 2022. It mandates employers disclose productivity quotas to both employees and government agencies, with outlined consequences if employees fail to meet these quotas. Employers are also prohibited from imposing unsafe quotas, such as preventing warehouse employees from taking state-mandated meals and rest breaks or from simply accessing restroom facilities.

According to a statement from the Labor Commissioner's office on Tuesday, Amazon did not provide written notice of quotas but rather depended on a peer-to-peer evaluation system, which Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower criticized as the same system the Warehouse Quotas law was trying to prevent.

In recent years, Amazon has been scrutinized for its treatment of warehouse and delivery employees. Critics and regulators have focused particularly on the pace of work, where speed requirements increase the risk of injury among workers.

READ ALSO: United Airlines Held Liable for an Accident Crushing Worker's Foot, Demanded $14,502 for Negligence on Safety Procedures

Amazon's Labor Law Violation

Safety regulators in Washington also fined Amazon in 2022 for willfully violating workplace safety laws, causing an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders by requiring employees to work on repetitive tasks.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) of the Labor Department has repeatedly cited Amazon for safety violations, but Amazon has announced its intention to appeal all the citations. Several states, including New York, Washington, and Minnesota, have enacted similar regulations addressing workplace safety concerns, with Senator Ed Markey, a Democrat from Massachusetts, introducing a federal bill on this matter last month.

Amazon, the second-largest private employer in the US, has stated that it does not employ fixed quotas but rather utilizes performance expectations that consider various indicators, including team performance within specific sites. Amazon has also contested claims that its employees do not receive adequate breaks. The company has also defended its safety record, stating in March that its injury rates have shown improvement and revealed intentions to allocate over $750 million towards safety initiatives throughout the year.

According to Maureen Lynch Vogel, Amazon's spokesperson, the company has initiated an appeal process to dispute the allegations. As clarified in an email statement, Amazon does not have fixed quotas, and individual performance at Amazon is assessed over an extended period, taking into account the performance of the entire site team. Employees are encouraged to review their performance at any time and can approach a manager for assistance if they encounter difficulties in accessing information.

RELATED ARTICLE: Tesla Settles Lawsuit From Ex-Worker Who Was Fired After Reporting Harassment and Workplace Injury

 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Four men have been found guilty of murder after a 17-year-old boy was fatally shot in the head with a ball bearing and then stabbed with a machete as he lay defenceless on the ground outside a music studio.

Tyler McDermott was killed in Tottenham, north London, last April 13.

Tyrese Barnett, 20, Leo Reid, 20, Rhys Antwi, 20, and Kalam Bagge, 19, were convicted by a jury, after over 70 hours of deliberation, following an Old Bailey trial.

Barnett was further found guilty of attempted murder.

Alfred Coker, 21, and Damaris McBeth, 20, were charged with murder but acquitted by the jury on Wednesday.

Prosecutor John Price KC told the trial that tension and hostility had been brewing between two groups of young people who were all present in the music studio that morning in April.

Tyler and his friends were in one group while Barnett, Reid and the others were in the other, jurors were told.

The events were captured on CCTV footage, Mr Price said: The man who shot Tyler McDermott in the head is Tyrese Barnett.

The man who struck him to the lower body with the machete after he had fallen to the ground is Leo Reid.

They showed they both intended and desired that Tyler McDermott should die.

Mr Price said Reid had attacked the victim as he lay stricken and defenceless on the ground.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, Tyler died in hospital the following day.

The two attackers were identified by police and found two days later sitting together at Heathrow Airport with one-way tickets to Jamaica, the court heard.

The CCTV footage showed the gun was fired twice, with the second shot fired at Tylers friend, Kamali Lindo, the prosecutor said.

The prosecution did not allege Reid caused Tylers death with the machete, but it did help prove he shared guilt for the murder, the court heard.

Barnett, of no fixed address, Reid, of Tulse Hill, south-west London, Antwi, of Prentis Road, south-west London, and Bagge, of Nimrod Road, south-west London, will be sentenced on September 20.

Reid and Antwi pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon ahead of the trial.

Coker, of Bowen Drive, south-east London and McBeth, of The Glade, Croydon, have been cleared.
George Galloways Workers Party of Great Britain has unveiled its manifesto to voters saying Britain deserves better.

The 34-page document covers everything from the economy, foreign policy, the NHS and immigration.

Here the PA news agency looks at some of the partys proposals.

 Economy

To transform the UK into a democratic socialist state, starting with an increase in personal tax allowance to 21,200 and a 5% wealth tax on all estates worth 10m and above.

Reverse de-industrialisation and workers control of industry through trade unions.

Consider nationalising some public services including rail, water, electricity and the military-industrial complex.

 Environment

Share the costs and benefits of the green agenda and change to combat global warming.

Oppose Ulez (ultra low emission zone) initiatives because of costs imposed on small businesses and workers and oppose Green hysteria.

The manifesto pledges to oppose Ulez initiatives

 NHS

Massive reduction in administration and management in the NHS, with Big Food and Big Pharma to be regulated at every level.

 Free speech and culture wars

End creeping buro-fascism to support free speech and stop stealth oppression and stealth totalitarianism via the law, regulations, lawfare and cultural engineering.

Overhaul arts funding to make space in working-class communities for everything from K-Pop to Haydn, the manifesto promises.

 Immigration

Recognise the anxiety felt among working-class communities to mass migration but focus on the influx caused by our own actions through war, sanctions on developing countries and unfair trading practices.

George Galloway secured victory in the Rochdale by-election earlier in the year (Yui Mok/PA)

 The constitution

Referendum on the continued existence of the monarchy and proportional representation for elections.

 Foreign policy

Put an end to imperialist wars, withdrawal from Nato, a clear and present danger to UK security, and support for Palestine.

 Welfare

Review pensions policy with the aim of all workers having the option to retire at 60, free school meals for all children without means testing, free adult education, to be paid for by scrapping the UK nuclear deterrent.
June is Pride month, and everyone is showing off their favorite rainbow fits in support of the LGBT+ community. With Pride celebrations occurring all over the country, it seems like folks from all walks of life are letting their true colors shine througheven if those folks are canines.

In this video, a Siberian Husky does a little fashion show with her favorite Pride month outfits. And each is cuter than the last.

View the original article to see embedded media.

The Colorado-based Siberian Husky Zoya lives in a little pack with two other Husky siblings in the Denver area, and has a ton of adorable outfits to choose from for this months Pride events. In the video, she marches down a rainbow-decorated corridor in a variety of clothes and right into a variety of rainbow themed headdresses held out to her by Mom.

Related: 3 Huskies Meeting 3 Golden Retrievers Is Total Cuteness Overload

Which is your favorite?

First up is a rainbow-striped knit that covers her entire forelegs, paired with an oversized striped bow headband in rainbow colors.

The second outfit is a rainbow feather boas, an enormous, rainbow tulle auto and a rainbow feather fascinator. Perhaps a little much.

The third (which gets my vote), is a rainbow floral lei paired with a rainbow rosette headdress.

And the last fit is a sporty look, with rainbow striped armbands and a headband topped with a pair of rainbow flags.

Could Canine Fashion Show be the next dog agility sport?

Dog Agility

Watching Zoya aim for and place her head over and over inside the headbands, hats, and headdresses that her Mom holds out for her is a truly impressive example of the precision and specificity that can be achieved with careful dog training. Its clear that Zoya knows exactly what it is that shes supposed to do in order to make this video work. And this kind of agility training, though perhaps not the sporty variety used in competitions, is excellent for a pet influencer like Zoya and the rest of her pack.

Is a Siberian Husky Right For You?

Siberian Huskies are a popular breed of dog, beloved for their intelligence, work ethic, and gorgeous, wolf-like appearance. They are working dogs, bred for highly energetic activities like sled pulling, and do best when trained well and given plenty of activities to keep their agile minds and strong bodies occupied. Some say that Huskies are stubborn animals, given to dramatic fits when hey cant get their way, but the one in this video seems all too biddable, more than willing to try on outfit after outfit and do a little fashion show to please Mom.

The key is likely that the woman making this video has trained her dogs to perform this modeling behavior. By turning it into a game or task, where the dog is actually aiming for the headband and is likely awarded with ample praise and treats, she can make the dog willing to play he game, just like they would be willing to don a sled harness and pull a bunch of people and equipment for miles through the Yukon.

Gotta say, rainbow fashions seem like a lot more fun.

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Police Scotland did not receive a police watchdog investigation report that would have been incredibly valuable in terms of examining officers conduct, the Sheku Bayoh inquiry has heard.

Retired deputy chief constable Fiona Taylor, who served in her role from 2018 to 2023, spoke about the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) report when she gave evidence to the inquiry on Wednesday.

Mr Bayoh, 31, a father-of-two, died after he was restrained on the ground by six police officers in Kirkcaldy, Fife, on May 3, 2015.

The inquiry is examining the circumstances leading to Mr Bayohs death, how police dealt with the aftermath, the investigation into his death, and whether race was a factor.

In October 2018, then lord advocate James Wolffe decided not to prosecute any officers who were involved in the incident after Pirc submitted an investigation report.

Sheku Bayoh died in 2015 (family handout/PA)

However, the inquiry heard on Wednesday that Police Scotland were never shown any of Pircs findings in the months following the decision.

Angela Grahame KC, senior counsel to the inquiry, told Ms Taylor: Weve certainly heard that the Pirc report was not sent to Police Scotland, by Pirc or by the Crown.

Ms Taylor said Police Scotland didnt have that Pirc investigation to the best of [her] knowledge.

Ms Grahame then asked her if she would have considered the Pirc report to be necessary before police could carry out its own assessment into its regulations.

She replied: In terms of that assessment being as complete as it could possibly be, it would have been helpful to have that material, certainly.

Ms Grahame then asked if, after the Crown Office made the decision not to prosecute officers, were there any active lines of investigation adopted by Police Scotland to seek further information from officers who were present during the incident following which Mr Bayoh died.

Ms Taylor said no, and that she does not recall there being consideration to the possibility of interviewing the officers a number of years after the incident took place.

She said she cannot remember in all good conscience whether there was consideration given to doing so, but added: Certainly that activity was not undertaken.

Inquiry chairman Lord Bracadale then interjected, asking: Its clear that at that point having the Pirc report which has been, as you put it, helpful at least.

Did you explore at all with the Crown or the Pirc whether you could get the Pirc report?

Ms Taylor replied: Youre right it would have been incredibly valuable.

We may well have had that conversation, but I suspect we would have pended that conversation until we understood whether the family wanted to exercise their right to review.

Lord Bracadale then asked: Looking to the future, would it assist those responsible for misconduct reports in the police to have the Pirc report at a point where proceedings were not being taken?

Ms Taylor said: Yes sir, I think it would.

This is a set of circumstances that we can experience on occasion with Pirc, that they have carried out an investigation.

They still have the report, and because the investigation is being carried out by Pirc investigators, Police Scotland doesnt have that statement or indeed all the facts in front of them, so yes I think that would be incredibly valuable.

During the afternoon session, Ms Grahame asked Ms Taylor what steps Police Scotland have taken since Mr Bayohs death to ensure it is an anti-racist organisation.

Ms Taylor said there is work to be done for us organisationally to become a truly anti-racist organisation.

She added: To understand what that means, and to integrate our determination to become an anti-racist organisation into every element of policing activity.

Now, I dont think that was the case in 2015, I wasnt here, but certainly the work that I have done, the work that I did in my tenure in Police Scotland, very much focused on how do we become a different organisation, a better organisation, an organisation which actually understands what it means to be anti-racist and what that then means in terms of discharge of those powers and responsibilities that are bested within police officers.

Also what that means in term of the culture within the organisation, to ensure that it nurtures, supports, values and progresses every single individual, police officer or police staff within the organisation.

The inquiry, taking place in Edinburgh, continues.
Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan teamed up to send Germany into the knockout stage of Euro 2024 with a game to spare after a 2-0 victory over Group A rivals Hungary.

Musiala opened the scoring with his second goal of the tournament before the break before Gundogan killed off hopes of a Hungarian fightback on a day when Julian Nagelsmanns men were made to work for the three points in Stuttgart.

Germany keeper Manuel Neuer had to race from his line within seconds of kick-off to deny Roland Sallai after the defence in front of him had been caught flat-footed, but opposite number Peter Gulacsi fielded Kai Havertzs tame shot as the three-time European champions responded.

Germany forward Jamal Musiala opened the scoring in a 2-0 win over Hungary (Nick Potts/PA)

Neuers goal came under threat once again with six minutes gone when the German defence failed to deal with Dominik Szoboszlais follow-up cross after his corner had been repelled, but this time Robert Andrich managed to block Bendeguz Bollas attempt.

Gulacsi beat away a shot and Bolla headed away Andrichs volley from the resulting corner with the hosts starting to impose themselves.

They took the lead with 22 minutes gone when Gundogan barged into and dispossessed Willi Orban before pulling the ball back for Musiala to score with the Hungarians appealing in vain for a foul on the defender.

Marco Rossis men might have been level within four minutes but for Neuers save from Szoboszlais powerfully-struck free-kick, and Jonathan Tah made a vital 29th-minute intervention to deny the Liverpool midfielder amid a concerted response.

Hungary were well supported in Stuttgart (Nick Potts/PA)

Hungary thought they had levelled in first-half stoppage time when Sallai pounced after Neuer had saved Orbans header, only for an offside flag to halt his celebrations.

Orban sliced an attempted clearance from Antonio Rudigers long-range shot over his own bar and Gulacsi made a good save to keep out Toni Kroos deflected effort as Hungary came under sustained pressure after the restart.

Barnabas Varga headed wastefully over from Sallais inviting 60th-minute cross after climbing above Rudiger, and his side was made to pay seven minutes later when Gundogan swept home Maximilian Mittelstadts cross to make it 2-0.

Joshua Kimmich fired across the face of goal and substitute Leroy Sane forced another save from Gulacsi, although it took a late goal-line clearance by Kimmich to deny Orban a consolation goal.
Sir Keir Starmers wife felt a bit sick when she encountered a pro-Palestine demonstration outside their family home, a court has heard.

Victoria Starmer drove away in her car when she realised people who were not agreeing with my husband had gathered outside.

Leonorah Ward, 21, of Leeds, Zosia Lewis, 23, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and Daniel Formentin, 24, of Leeds, are on trial at Westminster Magistrates Court over the demonstration, charged with public order offences under Section 42 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 and with breaching court bail.

Activists from the group Youth Demand hung a banner outside the London house that read: Starmer stop the killing, surrounded by red hand prints, while rows of childrens shoes were laid in front of the door on April 9, it is alleged.

Youth Demand laid childrens shoes outside the Starmer familys London home as part of a pro-Palestine protest (Youth Demand/PA)

Giving evidence at the trial in person, Lady Starmer said: I felt a bit sick, to be perfectly honest.

I felt apprehensive and uncomfortable.

Lady Starmer had just returned from a shopping trip with her son when they spotted the protesters, the court heard.

She drove around the corner before contacting Sir Keirs office because she didnt want to stop and be obvious, she told the court.

Asked by Andrew Morris, defending, if she knew it was a peaceful protest, Lady Starmer said: It would look like a peaceful protest if it hadnt been outside my home.

Put to her by Laura OBrien, representing Ward, that she did not want the added publicity from the demonstration, she said: That was absolutely not in my mind.

Youth Demand protester Daniel Formentin is accused of public order offences (Charlotte Coney/PA)

Formentin, representing himself, told the court: I firmly believe that Keir Starmer is not accurately representing the country.

There is an overwhelming sense that young people in this country do want a ceasefire in Palestine.

Formentin said the protesters took as many steps as we could to mitigate any threat, and had no plans to confront anyone.

Put to him by Mr Hallam that they still would have been intimidating and threatening, Formentin said: No.

Put to them that they never contemplated how someone living in the house might find the protest distressing, he said: I think it could be seen as distressing.

Metropolitan Police Sergeant Mark Upsdale, who arrived at the scene at around 2pm and made the order for the arrests, also gave evidence at the trial.

Asked by prosecutor Jacob Hallam KC if the protesters were making their intentions known to the officers, he said: They said there was a plan but we are not willing to tell you, or something to that effect.

Sgt Upsdale said holding the protest outside somebodys house, instead of outside the House of Commons or Sir Keirs offices, was inappropriate.

He added: I did not know if they were going to be there 10 minutes or a day.

The court was shown footage shared on social media of the demonstration, which included clips of the three defendants speaking, and police body-worn footage of the protesters being arrested by officers outside the home.

Section 42 powers cover the harassment of a person at their home address if an officer suspects it is causing alarm or distress to the occupant.

(L to R) Zosia Lewis, Leonorah Ward and Daniel Formentin protesting outside the London home of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer (Youth Demand/PA)

Youth Demand describes itself as a new youth resistance campaign fighting for an end to genocide.

Childrens shoes have been used at a number of pro-Palestine demonstrations to signify the children killed in Gaza.

The same group sprayed Labour HQ with red paint, and later claimed that 11 people had been arrested in relation to that incident.

The three deny the charges, and the trial continues.
Teenager Leah Croucher is believed to have been unlawfully killed by sex offender Neil Maxwell after she tried to defend herself, a police officer told an inquest.

Ms Croucher, 19, who was a black belt in martial arts and was known for it internationally, disappeared while walking to work on February 15 2019 and no trace of her was found for more than three years despite a large search operation.

Her remains were discovered in the loft of a house in October 2022 in Furzton, Milton Keynes, less than half a mile from where she was last seen, after a tip-off from a maintenance worker.

Prime suspect Neil Maxwell, a previously convicted sex offender, killed himself while on the run from police in April 2019, two months after Ms Croucher vanished.

Neil Maxwell killed himself while on the run from police in 2019 (Thames Valley Police/PA)

Detective Superintendent Kevin Brown, of Thames Valley Police, told an inquest at Milton Keynes Coroners Court on Wednesday that he believes on the balance of probabilities, that Ms Croucher was unlawfully killed by Maxwell.

Asked by senior coroner Tom Osborne if on the balance of probabilities he would say Ms Croucher was unlawfully killed by Maxwell, Mr Brown replied: Absolutely.

Mr Brown added: In normal circumstances, had he been alive, we would have approached the Crown Prosecution Service for their advice around charging.

He added that his professional experience and knowledge would suggest Leah would have died very close to the day she went missing, if not on it.

Caroline Haughey KC, representing Ms Crouchers family, asked if he believed it was likely to be an unwarranted sexual attack and in fact because of her martial arts ability, she reacted and subsequently died.

Mr Brown said: I believe she would have defended herself, that may have escalated the situation.

Maxwell came on the forces radar in May 2019 after it received information on him via a phone call but officers did not link him to Ms Croucher at the time.

A murder investigation was launched in October 2022 after a maintenance worker who had been trying to eradicate a smell in a property discovered what he thought were remains and called the police, the inquest was told.

Mr Osborne said: Whoever had placed the body in the loft had taken steps to remove certain limbs and place them in plastic bags.

Ms Crouchers body was found in the house in Loxbeare Drive, Furzton, which was owned by people who lived abroad and used it as a holiday home and had not visited during the Covid pandemic, the officer said.

Mr Brown said Ms Croucher would walk to work which took about 40 minutes and, depending on which route she took, one route took her past the Loxbeare Drive house.

Mr Brown said called the police investigation huge and said it generated 1,500 lines of inquiry.

The inquest heard a post-mortem examination was inconclusive and Ms Croucher was identified by her dental records. Her cause of death was unascertained due to decomposition.

Maxwell was a handyman and the only person with keys to the property where Ms Crouchers body was found.

He was wanted for a sex attack in Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes, in November 2018, and used false names to evade arrest, as well as stopping using his phone and car.

Officers believe he also lost weight and grew a beard to change his appearance.

In a pen portrait, Claire Croucher described her daughter as a kind, caring soul who worried about others and did her best to ensure those around her were comfortable and happy.

She said her friends described Ms Croucher as a force of power with an infectious giggle and a smile that was always present.

Ms Crouchers mother said: We knew she would succeed in life with her attitudes to situations, she was strong both physically and mentally.

She added that Leah had grown from a shy little girl into a confident young woman and they were so proud of the woman she was becoming.

Claire Croucher said the void her loss has left has broken us.

Detective Chief Superintendent Joe Kidman, from Thames Valley Police, told the inquest a number of improvements have been made after reviews carried out following Ms Crouchers death.

The inquest heard Maxwell was assessed as medium risk after he was convicted of sexual assault in February 2018, but subsequently it was decided he should have been assessed as being high risk.

Maxwell had failed to attend a number of probation appointments in 2018 after his conviction, the inquest heard.

An officer dealing with him raised concerns about Maxwells lack of communication in January 2019, Ms Haughey said.

Geoff Davis, head of operations for the south central probation service, said in 2018 Maxwell was good at disguising his compliance in terms of his reporting to us.

He added that Maxwell was reporting to probation as instructed and completed 200 hours of unpaid work.

A risk matrix was used which showed there was a high likelihood of reoffending in Maxwells case, Ms Haughey said, and Mr Davis said the result was professionally overridden.

In January 2023, Thames Valley Police released a computer generated e-fit of Maxwell as detectives tried to confirm that he had killed Ms Croucher.

The inquest continues.
Jeremy Hunt has to go, the Liberal Democrats deputy leader has said on the campaign trail in Surrey.

Daisy Cooper visited Farncombe in the Godalming and Ash constituency on Wednesday, where her party has launched a push to claim a high-profile scalp in the General Election on Thursday July 4.

The Conservative Chancellor has admitted he faces a knife-edge battle to win the new seat, created after a boundary review.

Daisy Cooper speaks to a campaigner in Godalming and Ash constituency in Surrey (Will Durrant/PA)

His 2019 election majority was 8,817 in the former South West Surrey constituency which included Farncombe.

Ms Cooper said: For too long, the Conservatives have been taking our country for granted.

Theyre out of touch, theyre incompetent and people have had enough.

Right around our country and in swathes of the blue wall, people are telling us theyre working hard, theyre raising their families, theyre caring for their loved ones but theyre really struggling to make ends meet, and when they turn to our public services for help they suddenly find that everything is broken, and nothing works.

So there are many parts of the country where Liberal Democrats are the best placed to beat the Conservatives, and we know that its time to get rid of this Conservative Government.

The Conservatives have to go. The Conservative Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has to go.

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper speaks to the media during a campaign visit to Farncombe (Will Durrant/PA)

At a press conference on Friday last week, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he would have thought Mr Hunt would be very, very at home with the Liberal Democrats.

Ms Cooper said she would absolutely not welcome the Chancellor into the Liberal Democrats ranks.

The fact of the matter is that Jeremy Hunt has endorsed the plans of Liz Truss, she said.

He said that hes been trying to pursue more of her policies.

So, absolutely not, the Liberal Democrats are trying to beat Jeremy Hunt in this election because he and his party have been responsible for an appalling cost-of-living crisis and for sending peoples mortgage bills spiralling and for food prices being sky high.

Her partys leader Sir Ed Davey sat around the same Cabinet table as Mr Hunt during the coalition years, before 2015.

POLITICS Election Godalming

During those coalition years, the Liberal Democrats fought the Conservatives every single day, Ms Cooper said.

We won some battles but we didnt win all of them.

Ms Cooper listed same-sex marriage, free school meals and the pensions triple lock among the partys success.

She was also asked which issues voters had raised on the doorsteps in Home Counties constituencies like Godalming and Ash.

Ms Cooper said: Theyre fed up of seeing their local health services driven into the ground. Theyre fed up of seeing their local hospital left to crumble.

Theyre fed up of seeing their mortgages go up, their food bills go up and theyre really sick to the back teeth of the fact the Conservatives have allowed water companies to pump sewage into their beautiful rivers and lakes.

Boundary changes mean Mr Hunt is standing in the newly created seat, which would have had a Conservative majority of 10,720 if it had been fought on those boundaries at the 2019 election.

In a reference to then-cabinet minister Michael Portillos Enfield Southgate election loss in 1997, Mr Hunt was asked whether he faced a new Portillo moment.

He told broadcasters: This is a very marginal constituency. Ive always treated it as a marginal constituency.

Im fighting for every vote. I think that I can win the seat. But I dont take anything for granted.

It is on a knife edge. And thats what Im knocking on doors for, six hours every day, meeting lots of people, making the arguments.

Contesting Godalming and Ash are Conservative Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, the Liberal Democrats Paul Follows, Reform UKs Graham Drage, Ruby Tucker of The Green Party, Labours James Walsh and Harriet Williams of the Womens Equality Party.
Former Love Island star Jack Fowler has called for nuts to be excluded from in-flight menus after he claimed he could have died when they featured in a meal he was served.

The reality star, who appeared on the ITV2 show in 2018, said he had to use his epi pen and required five tanks of oxygen as he had a severe allergic reaction on a flight to Dubai after a chicken curry he was served had nuts in it.

Fowler said he flagged his severe nut allergy twice and was reassured the meal did not contain nuts.

'It was extremely scary for me I could have died' Jack Fowler experienced anaphylaxis mid-air on a flight to Dubai after being served a dish with nuts in despite explaining he was allergic and being told there was no nuts in the dish. pic.twitter.com/P51qyPwUMv  Good Morning Britain (@GMB) June 19, 2024

He told ITVs Good Morning Britain: I really honestly trusted them and started to eat what I thought was something safe and it actually contains the one thing that I really couldnt have and that was cashew nuts, that is the worst nut for me.

Straight away I knew, my throat was closing up, I couldnt breathe and it was extremely scary for me.

He added: I just knew something was wrong so I stood up, I went to the air host and I said: Excuse me. Is there nuts in this? And she said no. And I said: But I can feel it, somethings wrong.'

After he insisted on looking at the menu, he said it read: Creamy cashew nut chicken curry, adding: Theres this complete negligence here.

He continued: I just think: what is it going to take? What is it going to take until nuts are taken off flights completely?

The amount of people in my comments on Instagram, direct messaging, saying they are completely relating to what happened, whether or not its them firsthand, its their friends, it might be the parents of a young child whos also got an anaphylaxis to food.

Its incredible that nuts are still served on flights. The rate of allergies in younger people is on the up. And I just feel like its a sign of the times where people need to be looked after on these flights.

Back in the day, you had some drink and some peanuts, but now things are changing and what is it gonna take?

I think people need to really understand the severity of allergies and I think theres a lot of ignorance in some people.

Fowler previously shared a video of himself injecting himself with his epi pen in the thigh during the flight, writing: I told the flight supervisor If you dont land this plane soon, I will die on this plane. This then lead to the pilot speeding up the journey.

He said he was taken to the airport hospital upon landing and continued treatment.

A spokesperson for Emirates airline said: We are sorry to hear of Mr Fowlers experience and our teams on ground are providing him with all possible assistance. The safety and health of our customers is taken very seriously.

While Emirates aims to cater to customers with specific needs by offering a variety of special meals that cover medical, dietary, and religious requirements, we cannot guarantee a nut-free in-flight environment.

We urge travellers with dietary or other medical requirements to check our website and consult their doctor before travel.
Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald has urged against seizing on the hurt of the past in the General Election campaign.

She was speaking after her partys Fermanagh South Tyrone candidate, and former Royal College of Nursing chief, Pat Cullen was challenged to condemn two atrocities during Northern Irelands troubled past during which nurses were killed.

In an exchange on BBC Radio Ulster, UUP Fermanagh South Tyrone candidate Diana Armstrong asked Ms Cullen to condemn both the IRAs bombing of Enniskillen in 1987 and the dissidents Omagh bomb in 1998.

Ms Cullen responded saying: Look Ive said very clearly those were very dark days. As a community nurse Ive held the hands of many people who lived through those periods.

Ive felt, Ive heard and Ive seen their trauma. Ive seen what it does to them. Lets not go back there. Lets move forward and bring prosperity and hope to the people.

DUP MLA Emma Little-Pengelly criticised Ms Cullens response as appalling.

Disgraceful and disappointing, she added in a post on the social media network X.

Asked about the exchange during Sinn Feins manifesto launch in west Belfast later on Wednesday, Ms McDonald said the party recognises the hurts of the past.

Appalling from Pat Cullen  Asked to condemn terrorist murder of 2 nurses, in Enniskillen and the Omagh bomb, Pat Cullen declined to do so. Let's not forget, she was Chief Exec and General Secretary of the Royal College of Nursing across the UK. Disgraceful and disappointing. https://t.co/0jKpak99b9  Emma Little-Pengelly BL (@little_pengelly) June 19, 2024

Pat Cullen is running for election because Pat Cullen is a very, very good woman, she is a formidable woman who has a track record second to none for public service, she said.

All of us are working for the future, and that is not to discount the hurts of the past on all sides. We recognise that but we also know that together we need to make peace with each other and we need to find a pathway forward.

I dont believe in the course of an electoral campaign to seize on tragedies and hurts of the past to try and derail or challenge a candidate is the progressive way for us to get to that point of reconciliation.

This is a very serious matter. The experience that people had, the hurt and the loss that people experienced is real, its real human suffering and as political activists we are keenly aware of that and we want to be part of the process of healing that and of moving forward.
(Photo : Pexels: Chad Russell )

Tesla might face a class-action lawsuit, as a US Judge signaled Tesla vehicle owners to revive a dismissed case in November, accusing Elon Musk's electric car company of monopoly.

According to owners, Tesla's alleged coercion violated the federal Sherman Antitrust Act and California's antitrust laws.

Tesla's Dismissed Monopoly Case

US District Judge Trina Thompson in San Francisco dismissed an antitrust lawsuit that accused Elon Musk's electric car company, Tesla, of monopolizing the vehicle maintenance and replacement parts market, allegedly forcing customers to endure high prices and extended repair times. Thompson ruled that the plaintiffs in the proposed class action did not demonstrate that these issues were not widely recognized when they purchased their vehicles, nor did they anticipate the costs of maintaining them. Thompson also noted that the customers did not provide sufficient evidence to support their claim that Tesla coerced them into using its services and parts solely due to their initial purchase of the vehicles.

Reviving The Monopoly Lawsuit

Thompson ruled on Monday that vehicle owners could attempt to demonstrate that Tesla compelled them to pay high prices and endure extended wait times for vehicle repairs, fearing the loss of warranty coverage.

Thompson identified evidence of a repair monopoly in Tesla's purported failure to establish enough authorized service centers and in designing vehicles that necessitate diagnostic and software updates that only the company could provide exclusively. She also noted the restriction of the original equipment manufacturers from selling to entities other than Tesla, limited direct sales of parts to consumers, and Tesla's alleged illegal tying of various markets that coerce customers into making unnecessary purchases as evidence of parts monopoly.

READ ALSO: Tesla Sues Ex-Supplier Matthews for Stealing EV Trade Secret, Claiming Patent Its Own

Matt Ruan, representing the plaintiff owners, expressed satisfaction with the court's thorough and thoughtful decision and eagerly anticipated the next steps in the case. The complaint consolidates five lawsuits from vehicle owners who have incurred expenses for Tesla repairs and parts since March 2019, arguing that the Austin, Texas-based company distinguished itself from competitors by requiring that it manage servicing and parts rather than allowing owners to utilize independent shops and components from other companies.

An Illogical Theory

Tesla and its legal representatives did not respond promptly to requests for comment on Tuesday. Still, they contended that the complaint rested on what they described as an illogical theory that Tesla deliberately degraded repairs and parts, which could potentially jeopardize its more lucrative business of vehicle sales and leasing.

Tesla is known for selling its vehicles directly to consumers, bypassing franchisees. In 2023, the company reported $8.3 billion in revenue from services and other automotive-related activities, constituting 9% of its total revenue of $96.8 billion. Vehicle sales accounted for the majority of its revenue, at $78.5 billion.

The case is Lambrix v. Tesla Inc., filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of California under case number 23-01145.

RELATED ARTICLE: Google Faces Off with US Judge, Grilled on Monopoly Trial During Closing Arguments

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The mother of a British teenager who has gone missing during a holiday in Tenerife said having to search for her son has been horrendous.

Jay Slater, 19, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, was last heard from on Monday morning as he told a friend he planned to walk back to his accommodation after missing a bus, a journey expected to take around 11 hours on foot.

Mr Slaters mother, Debbie Duncan, flew to Tenerife in Spains Canary Islands on Tuesday morning to search for him.

Ms Duncan said she feared her son, who is an apprentice bricklayer, had been taken against his will.

She told the PA news agency: Its just traumatic and it doesnt feel real. Its just awful, its horrendous.

I think hes been taken against his will with whats been said, but its in the hands of the police.

Speaking about her son, Ms Duncan said: Hes just a great person who everyone wanted to be with. Hes good looking, hes a popular boy.

She added that the police leading the search had been very good.

Mr Slaters friend Lucy  who had gone to the island with him to attend the NRG music festival  told the Manchester Evening News (MEN) that he had gone to stay with people he had met on holiday after a night out.

She said she had received a call from Mr Slater at around 8.15am on Monday after he missed the bus and was trying to walk back although he had said he was lost, needed a drink of water and had only 1% battery on his phone.

Mr Slaters phone then cut off, with his last location showing as the Rural de Teno park  a mountainous area popular with hikers.

Lucy told the MEN that one of the people Mr Slater had met had driven them back to his apartment in a hire car and the missing man had not realised how far away it was.

Hes ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there, she said.

But then in the morning hes set off walking, using his maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around.

Mr Slater was last seen wearing a white T-shirt with shorts and trainers.

A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson said: We are supporting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.
A new exhibition about the life of British supermodel Naomi Campbell will take visitors through a cornucopia of artefacts from her 40-year career, according to its curator.

Naomi In Fashion will launch at Londons V&A Museum on Saturday June 22 and is the first exhibition to focus solely on a single supermodel, telling Campbells story from her dancing beginnings to the height of her 1990s fame.

Visitors begin at a pair of dancing shoes from her childhood career, when Campbell featured in music videos for the likes of Bob Marley and Culture Club from the age of just eight.

An array of dresses from Campbells own collection are on display at the exhibition (Lucy North/PA)

From there, the exhibition takes fans through the highs and lows of the south London-born supermodels 40 years in the spotlight.

Classic outfits displayed include the Vivienne Westwood Super Elevated Gillie Shoes and Ensemble, which caused her to tumble on a Paris catwalk, and a glittering Dolce and Gabbana dress she wore on her last day of community service in New York after throwing her phone at an employee in 2007.

Notably, many of the pieces on display come from Campbells own archive, according to V&A fashion curator Elisabeth Murray.

She told the PA news agency: Lots of these pieces dont exist anymore outside of individual archives so the fact she has kept them and then been able to layer on her stories has really lifted it.

Its really a cornucopia of fashion from the last 40 years.

Ms Murray, says the famous Westwood platform shoes have been a part of the museums collection since the 1993 tumble but this is the first time they have ever been reunited with the ensemble Campbell wore on the catwalk.

A tartan dress worn by Naomi Campbell during Vivienne Westwoods Fall 1994 Ready-to-Wear fashion show is on display at the exhibition (Lucy North/PA)

She added: I think it is something people are really excited to see, its a really interesting one in terms of Campbells impact.

She talks a lot about that moment and how afterwards so many other designers asked her to fall on the catwalk because there was so much press around it.

She said no because thats against her professional ethics so its just a really exciting and important piece of the show.

Other important outfits featured include the Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel gold jacket and blue breeches she wore on her first Vogue cover at just 17 and the Azzedine Alaia leopard bodysuit she was photographed in by Herb Ritts for Interview magazine.

Alaia is the only designer to have his own section in the exhibition, which curators say is a testament to the close relationship Naomi had with him as an instrumental figure in her early career.

Naomi In Fashion uses artefacts from throughout her career to tell the story of the supermodels life (PA/Lucy North)

In the centre of the exhibition is a recreation of a Claridges hotel room she stayed at while living from hotel room to hotel room during the height of the supermodel era, styled by Campbell herself and featuring actual furniture contributed by the London hotel.

Campbell has put her own stamp on the displays, with Ms Murray saying the supermodel had been very generous with her time discussing the outfits at length and giving anecdotes from her career.

She added: Whats really great about this exhibition and one of the reasons we were so keen to work with Naomi is that she has collected the pieces from throughout her career.

Its a really unique thing to have kept so much of the material and I think that helps with the richness of the show.

Naomi In Fashion will run from Saturday, June 22, 2024, to Sunday, April 6, 2025.

Tickets without a donation to the V&A Museum cost 16 for adults and 10 for those under-26, while children under-12 go free.
Tax experts are concerned that schools using the schemes could face legal challenges from HMRC. Photograph: SolStock/Getty Images

Parents paying seven years worth of private school fees in advance to escape Labours plans to add VAT could be sleepwalking into protracted tax disputes, experts have warned.

Advance payment schemes have been available for years at some independent schools. But since Labour confirmed its plans to add VAT of 20% to school fees, the uptake has gone up sharply as parents seek ways to keep costs down.

Tax experts are now concerned that schools using the schemes could face legal challenges from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in the future, and be left with a huge tax bill that they could then try to pass on to parents.

Related: It feels cynical: how would Labours VAT policy affect private schools?

Dan Neidle, the head of the Tax Policy Associates thinktank, said schools that in the past only saw a couple of parents each year using the prepayment schemes now had dozens signing up, with the practice becoming more common.

The schemes in many cases have been around for years. They werent used very often, said Neidle. They started to be used a lot more in the last couple of years and schools that didnt have them before started introducing them as a way  they thought  to escape VAT on private school fees.

He said the idea behind such schemes was that by paying several years fees in advance, the time of supply was now and parents could remain unaffected by the addition of VAT should Labour get into power.

Neidle said school advance fee schemes did not work in the same way as other advance payments. Parents paying school fees in advance were not paying an agreed sum and buying a product, they were paying a deposit with the school that was drawn on to pay each terms fees. If fees increased, and the total was used up more quickly, the parents would have to pay more.

Its not really like a prepayment at all, he said. The question is: at what point are fees taxable? Is it at the point of prepayment, which is what they hope, or is it actually at the start of each term?

Some schools are encouraging parents to pay multiple years in advance. It seems very ill advised because if this all goes wrong years in the future  and VAT disputes do take years before they go wrong  the school will have a very large bill.

Hows the school going to pay that? They can try to recover the money from the parents. Will they be able to? Will the parents still be around? Will they be in the UK? Will the parents say, no, you didnt tell us about the risks?

People are not going into this with their eyes open. Theyre sleepwalking into a potential dispute, doing something complicated without thinking about the risks. I think thats a bad mistake.

Many private schools advertise prepayment or advance payment schemes, with some schools potentially allowing prepayment of fees for 12 years, from the start of primary education to the end of sixth form.

With fees averaging 18,000 a year at traditional independent day schools, parents would need about 90,000 to pay five years in advance.

The Stamford school in Lincolnshire is among those allowing parents to pay up to seven years in advance. A spokesperson for Stamford school said it had run a fees in advance scheme for many years.

The spokesperson said: There has been interest from parents this year in the scheme, but we have a number of parents who sign up to use this scheme every year. Stamford parents can pay fees in advance for up to 21 terms (seven school years). Until any legislation is in place regarding the proposed VAT on independent school fees, it would be hard for any governing body to confirm if extra payments would be required.

A review of prepayment schemes offered found that the wording allows schools to charge parents VAT if required. The Girls Day School Trust, which operates a chain of independent schools, warns its parents that prepayments may not be protected from any VAT charge and may become liable for additional amounts to cover any future VAT charge.

Julie Green, a VAT consultant at Haines Watts accountancy, said a future government was likely to include anti-forestalling legislation, which would apply VAT on school fees at the time they were used rather than at the time of payment.

Green said George Osborne, while chancellor, had made use of anti-forestalling legislation, when he announced in 2010 that VAT would rise from 17.5% to 20% before the increase came into effect in January 2011.

Related: Beagling, golf and jolly hockey sticks: outdoor life at Englands largest private schools

Private school fees do not attract VAT at present because of an exemption for education services. Labour has pledged to use the estimated 1.5bn in tax revenue to fund 6,500 new teachers for state schools.

Labour is yet to fully outline its plans but has promised that, under a future Labour government, the VAT rules will operate in the usual way to make sure that tax owed is fully paid.

A Labour party spokesperson said: The next Labour government will break down the barriers to opportunity by investing in our state schools and recruiting over 6,500 new teachers through ending the tax breaks for private schools.

We will operate VAT rules in the usual way and any government would ensure that the tax owed is properly paid, and we will set out our full plans in government.
Emma Barnett, pictured, was introducing a section of Today about a 75-year-old grandmother of nine who was kidnapped by Hamas at gunpoint - BBC

BBC Radio 4s Emma Barnett has called armed terrorists who kidnapped an elderly woman on October 7 men working for Hamas.

The Today programme host failed to call Hamas a terrorist organisation during the broadcast.

It is the latest in a series of incidents in which the BBC has failed to describe the group as terrorists.

Ms Barnett was introducing a section of Today about a 75-year-old grandmother of nine who was kidnapped by Hamas at gunpoint.

She said: On October 7 last year Ada Sagi was having a morning coffee at home in Nir Oz kibbutz on the border with Gaza, when suddenly several men armed with Kalashnikovs working for Hamas burst into her home and forced her at gunpoint onto a motorbike and took her hostage.

Ms Barnett went on to say a total of 116 hostages seized by Hamas that day remain unaccounted for.

Ada Sagi spent 53 days imprisoned by the group before she was released.

Ms Sagi described the men who kidnapped her as two Hamas terrorists, and added: I saw people running away and many, many terrorists shooting them.

The Campaign Against Antisemitism said the BBCs decision not to call Hamas terrorists was unfathomable and that it only fuels anti-Jewish extremists and apologists for terrorism.

A spokesman told The Telegraph: Ofcom has made it crystal clear that there is no rule stopping the BBC from referring to Hamas as terrorists, so what is the Corporation waiting for?

Later on in the programme, when the full interview aired, Ms Barnett again described members of the terrorist group as men working for Hamas.

She said: Several men working for Hamas burst into her home and forced her barefoot at gunpoint onto a motorbike and took her hostage alongside scores of others.

The 39-year-old former Womans Hour presenter did not mention that Hamas is a proscribed terrorist group by the UK Government.

Ms Sagi said the group claimed they were not Hamas but members of Jihad who were taking her hostage so she could be exchanged for those being kept by Israel.

The Islamic Jihad Movement in Palestine is an Islamist paramilitary organisation seeking to establish a Palestinian state.

Lord Cameron has previously urged the BBC to call Hamas terrorists. In May, the Foreign Secretary said the organisation ought to ask itself again about how it labelled Hamas following the October 7 attack on Israel in which more than 1,100 people died.

He was speaking on BBCs Sunday with Laura Keunssberg, after Hamas released a video showing Nadav Popplewell, a British-Israeli hostage, who the group claimed had died in Gaza after being wounded in an Israeli air strike a month ago.

However a day later the BBCs Nick Robinson ignored the demand while taking part in a discussion on Radio 4s Today programme about Israels military operations in southern Gaza.

Is there a sense that Benjamin Netanyahu is walking a political tightrope, proceeding with military action against what he says are the remaining targets of the group he calls terrorists, Hamas? he asked Jo Floto, the BBCs Middle East bureau editor.

Mr Robinsons wording was criticised by Sir Michael Fabricant, the Tory MP, who said on social media: Why does Nick Robinson say on BBC Radio 4 Hamas, a terrorist organisation as Israel would say when Hamas is a terrorist organisation and is proscribed as such by the United Kingdom and EU?

The BBCs head of news, Deborah Turness, has previously defended not describing Hamas as terrorists and the broadcaster has not changed its policy on the matter.

John Simpson, the BBCs world affairs editor, previously said: We dont take sides. We dont use loaded words like evil or cowardly. We dont talk about terrorists.

The BBC was contacted for comment.
After the family had said a prayer, I took Laineys portrait  the young hunter daubed in blood. Photograph: Kathleen Orlinsky

The Gila Wilderness in New Mexico was, in 1924, the first designated wilderness area in the world. Forester Aldo Leopolds concept was to create a pristine place untouched by man  there would be no mechanised vehicles or buildings, but horses, rafts, hunting and fishing would be allowed. How we designate a wilderness hasnt really changed in the last century. In some ways, Gila was ahead of its time  in the early 20th century, nobody was really thinking about conserving the land. But they also forgot about the people living in this area: the Chiricahua Apache had been there for 200 years, and the Mogollon before that. The Gila is an example of how contradictory conservation can be, back then and now.

One of the most interesting examples of this is the elk. These were once widespread in the Gila region, but were gradually hunted out. In the 1970s, the Forest Service reintroduced Rocky Mountain elk  but since the elk dont know how to survive in the desert conditions, they had to build water tanks, even though construction was against the principles of conservation. Fifty years on, the elk are part of the reason people visit.

The elk are also important to people who live in the region. Lainey, who appears in this image, has deep family ties to the Gila. Her maternal great-grandfather was the first homesteader in the region after the defeat of the Apache by the American military. On her fathers side, she has Pueblo and Navajo ancestry. I had met her because her father runs the only store in the town I was staying in while working on my story, Americas First Wilderness, for National Geographic.

I had been going back and forth to the Gila between 2020 and 2023, and Lainey is one of the few youths and the only young girl I met who was training to hunt. But gender doesnt matter as much as keeping the tradition alive, and passing down the knowledge. I am fascinated by the way Indigenous communities hunt. It is a huge part of their culture and spirituality. I have deep respect for those who do it.

Lainey aimed and shot. When we got to where the elk had fallen, she had to shoot again. I imagine that's the hardest part

The first elk hunt is a special moment. Families in the Gila depend on the meat, and they thank the animal and bless it for its sacrifice. Marking the hunters cheeks with the animals blood is a family tradition practised by many  a symbol of success that honours the hunters first harvest. From the age of 10 or 11, children learn how to hunt as part of a Forest Service training programme.

I had gone out on horseback for a number of days with Lainey, her brother and father. You never know when the animals are going to show up  these elk know theyre hunted and theyre pretty skittish. After a couple of nights camping, we spotted about 30  the biggest herd Id ever seen. We were on a slope and had a clear view. With the guidance of her father, Lainey took aim and shot. When we got down to where the animal had fallen, she had to shoot again  I imagine that is the hardest part. After she got the elk, she cried. When the harvesting and processing was done and the family had said a prayer, I took Laineys portrait.

I came to photography through activism. I care a lot about social issues and politics, and photography became a way to explore them. I used to photograph conflicts and news, but after an assignment covering dog sled races in the Canadian Yukon, I became more interested in the climate crisis and the environment. Now my work is often environmental and nature-focused. Recently, I have been concentrating on solution stories. My goal  albeit idealistic  is to change peoples minds and raise awareness about environments and cultures at risk due to the climate crisis.

With the Gila story, it is more about the idea of conservation  about rethinking ethical conservation and how to protect wild places. I wanted this portrait to foster empathy and connection  and to make the viewer want to ask questions. Indigenous people are doing incredible work to protect the environment and they have so many answers. Theyve been out there the whole time, quietly saving the planet. We need to pay attention.

Kathleen Orlinskys CV

Born: New York, 1983

Trained: Self-taught

Influences: Graciela Iturbide, Sebastiao Salgado, Susan Meiselas

High point: So many. But one recent one was two summers ago, when after years of trying and days camping and hiking alone in the wilderness, I finally found myself in the middle of 50,000 western Arctic caribou as they migrated through one of the most remote parts of Alaska. Ill never forget lying on the tundra behind a rock, feeling the landscape hum beneath me as I photographed tens of thousands of these incredible creatures pass by.

Low point: Losing colleagues and friends covering conflict.

Top tip: Kindness and respect for others  from the people and communities we photograph, to the people we work with and meet along the way. Photographers might spend a lot of time alone, but we absolutely cannot do this work alone. Its so important to build true friendships and connections.

Kathleen Orlinsky is the winner of the Sustainability Prize, Sony World Photography Awards 2024. Highlights from this years awards are on display at the Museo Diocesano Carlo Maria Martini, Milan, Italy until 29 September, the book is available at shop.worldphoto.org




city of london

Having been in the financial markets advising companies for nearly 30 years, I believe the UK equity story needs a sharp refocus. Articulating a clear and powerful narrative about investing in the nation should be a key priority for the next government.

Whoever takes power on July 5 needs to tell a more compelling and positive story about the attractiveness of the UK.

A report this week by the Institute for Public Policy Research rightly said that if the economy is an engine, then investment is its fuel.

It called on the Government to enact measures to boost spending on new factories, equipment and innovations to boost economic activity and incomes. The report also, crucially, signalled that the UK is a worthwhile place for private investment to augment public spending.

Undoubtedly, there are challenges facing the UK and in some quarters there is a general downbeat mood relating to the nations economic prospects and global competitiveness.

Brexit fuelled instability

Brexit has been a destabilising factor in recent years. The decoupling of the UK from our largest trading partner has unsurprisingly led many international investors to question our position in the wider European corporate and financial ecosystem.

Like a number of fellow European economies, there has been a relative lack of growth and productivity, compounded by increasing demands on public finances. The upcoming general election creates further uncertainty in the system.

So is the UK uninvestable? No. Quite the opposite. But our narrative is not right.

As a leading G7 country, the UK has a dynamic and relatively stable economy. Britain fosters a unique entrepreneurial culture  a combination of innovation and research that produces leaders in fintech, business services, renewables, technology, healthcare, biotech and artificial intelligence. The UK has also created dozens of unicorns over recent years in these fields.

Our world-leading university system underpins this  producing the graduates and much of the research which drives that innovation forward. Its an exceptional competitive advantage.

As home to a number of the worlds top scientific research universities, the UK must now support the expansion of funding and growth capital for the research. It also needs to accelerate the commercialisation of these innovations beyond their academic incubators. OSE and Northern Gritstone are great examples of this.

The UK remains a European leader in financial services and private capital and continues to attract many international pools of investment. Consider how many international private equity and sovereign wealth funds have their European headquarters in the UK, and in London in particular.

The private capital concentrated in London remains an enormous source of potential for those wanting to do business here.

Notwithstanding such leadership, the UK has suffered a systematic misallocation of pension savings over the last few decades. Regulation and accounting rules have resulted in hundreds of billions of pounds of pension assets being diverted from equities into lower yielding fixed income securities.

This has exacerbated certain pension deficits, but more importantly caused significant impairment in the growth, liquidity and relative attractiveness of the London Stock Exchange as a destination for leading corporations.

Further, this dynamic has affected the sourcing of private growth capital into the UKs amazing younger companies. It should not be the case that its much easier to raise capital for flourishing UK firms from Canadian pension funds or Singaporean sovereign wealth funds than from our own significantly endowed pension funds.

This need not be an inevitability. I would encourage the next government to take the sensible and decisive step of, in some form, mandating UK pension funds to allocate a relatively small proportion of their assets into UK companies, both public and private.

Such reform and injection of capital would undoubtedly boost the UKs appeal.

The upcoming changes to the UK listing regime are to be welcomed. But the question remains: are they enough to address the recent drift of companies from the UK to the US?

Support for wealth creation

The UK also needs greater emphasis and recognition of support for wealth and job creation and a tax and fiscal system to support this.

International markets including the US and India have a more open attitude to risk versus the UK. They have more of a focus on capturing the upside versus protecting the downside. It would do us good to follow their example.

This countrys history as one of the leading global financial centres has been one of constant reinvention and renewal, while upholding a reputation for respecting the rule of law and the stability of fundamental systems of governance.

With the election season in full swing, whoever forms the next administration must remember that the Citys continued long-term success is not guaranteed but requires a clear-eyed vision of the future.

So the incoming government, of whatever shade, should not lose sight of the underlying qualities of the UKs equity story, and be willing to articulate them clearly  and loudly.

Cyrus Kapadia is chief executive of Lazard UK
Lawrence is still struggling with throbbing pain in his eyes and is having to see a specialist - SWNS/Radia Austin

An eight-year-old British boy has been left in acute pain after he was tear-gassed by French police while on a family holiday in Paris.

His parents said the schoolboy was in agony after police threw tear gas canisters into a crowd in the French capital on May 27.

The boys mother Radia Austin, 46, described the events as scary and traumatic after son Lawrence, eight, was left with acute eye problems.

Mrs Austin, 46, said her family had been near to a pro-Palestine protest while walking towards their accommodation during their half-term holiday.

Lawrence, his mother, and his father Paul Austin, 45, were returning to their apartment when one of the canisters landed at the boys feet.

Despite approaching the police for help they were told to wash his eyes.

Two weeks on, she said Lawrence is still struggling with throbbing pain in his eyes and is having to see a specialist.

Mrs Austin, from Betchworth, Surrey, said: It was scary and traumatic  we felt our eyes burning and it was hard to breathe but my biggest concern was my little one.

We just had to cross the road to get to our apartment but as we were crossing we heard boom sounds and next thing the gas came out.

Before you know it you cant breathe and your eyes are burning, people start shouting and my son started screaming.

All I did was walk back to the police and said help us please, my son is in agony, but he just stared at us and didnt help me.

Since then he has had a lot of shouty nightmares at night and keeps asking why the police did this to him.

The mother-of-one added: We were walking, holding hands, behind a barrier on the touristy side where people were walking, not on the main road closed off for demonstrators.

[When they threw the canisters] there were fumes and gas, it was like a scene of war, it was surreal.

We couldnt reach the flat even though it was such a short distance  I didnt know how my son was, he was in tears and shouting in pain because his eyes were hurting.

My son cried all night and the tear gas carried on, I said I was going downstairs but it was impossible to go outside to eat or drink because the tear gas just carried on.

She said police continued to use tear gas on demonstrators throughout the evening.

French police were contacted by The Telegraph for comment.
'A hundred years on, you can find practically anything thrown into a bowl and called a Caesar,' says Cumming - getty

For some, there will likely be lots of things to celebrate this 4 July, but chief among them is that it is the 100th birthday of the Caesar salad (making it three months older than Jimmy Carter, three months younger than A Passage to India). These were the days of Prohibition; the dish was born in Tijuana, Mexico, which was booming as Americans crossed the border in search of something stronger than apple juice, where one Caesar Cardini ran a popular Italian restaurant. Legend has it that one day, struggling for ingredients, the proprietor cobbled together a mix of lettuce, croutons and Parmesan in a dressing of lemon juice, egg, oil, garlic, salt and Worcestershire sauce. It sounds absolutely disgusting, doesnt it?

A hundred years on, you can find practically anything thrown into a bowl and called a Caesar, and not only chicken or bacon or anchovies. Kale, smoked trout, kimchi, carrot, chickpeas: endless crimes. You scarcely need the dressing; Caesar salad is more a state of mind. Although these variations are not true to the recipe we have come to know, they are true to the spirit of its creation: bundle some things together and hope for the best.

The Caesar salad is proof that a good yarn goes a long way. Even if you dont know the origin story, the word Caesar is deeply appealing. This is the light lunch of a Roman emperor, you think, or at the very least someone taking a break from gambling in a famous Las Vegas casino. Cardini may not have thought of this, but the word association suits the dish: it is light but indulgent, a salad with lashings of salt, bread and cheese. A Cardini salad would not be marking its 100th birthday.

The Waldorf salad is similarly blessed: the invocation of a fancy hotel in New York helps dress up a concoction of celery, apples, grapes and mayonnaise  later walnuts too  that in other circumstances would sound like a punishment. Its what makes that Fawlty Towers episode so funny, the idea that by ordering one, a sophisticated American guest might bring a modicum of civilisation even to Torquay, while Basils desperate alternatives  lettuce and tomato, walnuts, cheese or apples, grapefruit and potatoes in a mayonnaise sauce  are worse than the real thing.

Theyre not the only dishes to gain from a grand title. A beef Wellington by another name might be thought of as a rather delicate thing, possibly even French. Instead it arrives as if clad in a red tunic, all hearty British oomph with a side of boot. Similarly, the name Pavlova adds a classiness that a pile of fruit, cream and meringue dumped together might not otherwise convey. You could even believe that it is light and airy like a Russian ballerina, rather than sweet and fatty like a delicious pudding.

The greatest origin story of all is the sandwich: the card table, the greedy English earl, the desperate need to keep gambling. The mythology is so powerful it spawned not only a handy snack but a way of thinking about the world. A verb as well as a noun. No matter that the whole gambling aspect seems to have been an invention. Much more likely is that the 4th Earl of Sandwich was a busy man and wanted to eat al desko. But no one likes to think of themselves as continuing a long tradition of joyless convenience eaters, least of all when they actually are. As Signor Caesar knew, when it comes to flogging your leftovers, branding is everything.
Meredith Whittaker says Signal will not comply with anti-encryption laws and would rather cease operations if there is no other choice. Photograph: Patricia de Melo Moreira/AFP/Getty Images

Police have used the very legitimate grievance the public has with large tech companies like Meta about data collection and surveillance as a pretext to undermine user privacy, the president of encrypted messaging app Signal has said.

Meredith Whittaker told Guardian Australia that it had become an easy win with few political consequences for politicians to beat up on Facebook in the past decade, and while there was legitimate public backlash against the mass surveillance tech business model the policy response had a very unfortunate shape.

Instead of aiming for the root of these harms, the concentrated power at the heart of the platform monopoly, the mass surveillance that is the engine of this business model, collecting huge amounts of data on people, using that to target ads, to train AI models, to manipulate and influence people into spending more and more time on the platform and service of clicking ads  we see efforts almost to extend this surveillance and this monitoring and give governments a piece of it, she said.

Related: Australias big encryption-busting laws have done little more than give authorities the power to ask nicely

Its almost as if a very legitimate grievance has been turned into a pretext for doing what law enforcement has wanted all along while ignoring the core of the problem and, in some ways, even exacerbating it.

Signal has been regarded as the most well-known dedicated encrypted messaging service since its launch in 2018. Whittaker has been president since 2022, at a time when countries such as Australia, the UK and the US were all pushing back on tech companies encrypting the private communications of their users. The encrypted communications make it not only impossible for the companies themselves to see what is being said, but also law enforcement.

Meta, in particular, has been the target of strong criticism from lawmakers for making its messaging services end-to-end encrypted last year. In Australia, despite there being barely used encryption-busting laws for law enforcement since 2018, law enforcement are asking tech companies to do more. Proposed online safety standards could force companies to do what is technically feasible to detect child abuse material being shared on encrypted messaging services.

Whittaker rejected the idea that it was a debate being had between lawmakers and the tech companies. Its existential for Signal, she said.

We have been consistently trying to clarify the technical reality and the stakes of the proposals that are being put forward, which are [a] put lipstick on a mass surveillance proposal and say that it isnt actually undermining privacy, she said.

That doesnt work for us. We need to live in the realm of technical reality.

She said there was no way to implement what was being asked in a way that would preserve user privacy.

What were talking about is a kind of self-negating paradox. You cannot do mass surveillance privately, full stop.

Whittaker spoke to Guardian Australia ahead of a Wheeler Centre talk in Melbourne next week, and was meeting with the office of the Australian eSafety Commissioner this week to put Signals position on the proposals to the regulator.

Whittaker said Signal was offering its technical expertise to cut through the mud of the debate, noting that there had been a lot of lobbying on the issue from other organisations.

There are a lot of self-interested tech organisations that are selling what amounts to snake oil  [they] tend to assert that, because mass surveillance systems are implemented before encryption takes place, they dont undermine encryption.

This is word games, this is not actually a technical assessment.

Related: Encryption is deeply threatening to power: Meredith Whittaker of messaging app Signal

Signal would not comply with mass surveillance mandates in countries where it becomes law, she confirmed, and while the company would fight the laws, it would cease operations without a second thought if there was no other choice.

We would not do that lightly, and we will fight until the end to ensure that as many people across the globe have access to meaningful privacy, Whittaker added.

At the same time as regulators in western countries are pushing for more invasive surveillance powers for encrypted communications, there is a separate push to ban TikTok from countries including Australia over concerns about the company being forced to comply with Chinas national security laws and hand over user data.

Whittaker said she had watched that debate with dismay.

The issue isnt simply that mass surveillance is bad when a state were in competition with does it, she said.

Simply scapegoating one platform who is doing ultimately what all the other platforms do just in another relationship to another government is not solving this problem.
John Swinney launching the SNPs manifesto in Edinburgh on 19 June. Photograph: Murdo MacLeod/The Guardian

John Swinney doubled down on the Scottish National partys commitment to independence and said his was the only party to oppose cuts as he launched its manifesto on Wednesday. Here are the key takeaways.

Independence

The manifesto states that if the SNP wins a majority of Scottish seats, the Scottish government will be empowered to begin immediate negotiations with Westminster on making independence a reality.

In a realignment of the partys previous position, Swinney says this means negotiating a second referendum. The previous policy had suggested a second vote was not necessary, as the general election itself would amount to a de facto referendum.

But Conservatives and Labour have consistently stated that they will not grant Holyrood the requisite powers to hold a second referendum, while the Institute for Fiscal Studies warned that the SNP ignores the potential hit to economic growth from leaving the UK, and the big fiscal challenges an independent Scotland would immediately have to confront.

Focus on NHS

Swinney called on progressive politicians south of the border to join the SNP in pressing for greater funding for the NHS at a national level by a minimum of 10bn extra each year, generating an additional 1bn annually for NHS Scotland.



The manifesto also demands that the next UK government invest at least 6bn in additional funding to match Scotlands most recent pay deals for NHS staff. It estimates that this would deliver about 600m in consequentials, which Scotland could then invest in NHS staff numbers, pay and conditions.

The manifesto also pledges to introduce a bill at Westminster to protect the health service from privatisation, which would stand as a legal guarantee to keep the NHS in public hands.

Climate and oil and gas transition

A day after the Scottish government missed another emissions target, the manifesto says a future UK government should invest 28bn annually in the green economy, a commitment dropped by the Labour party earlier this year.

After the SNP was criticised for abandoning its previous presumption against new oil and gas licences, the manifesto advocates an evidence-based approach that would involve new licences being considered on a case-by-case basis, through a robust climate compatibility assessment.

Holyroods relationship with Westminster

Despite repeated attacks on Labour throughout the launch, the SNP also sets out areas of cooperation with a future Starmer government, for example, supporting plans to put VAT on private school fees while also reforming the tax in Scotland across the hospitality and tourism sectors.

Swinney also underlines his willingness to reset the relationship between Holyrood and Westminster, which he said had been characterised by total and utter disrespect under the Tories.

Cost of living

SNP MPs at Westminster would push for the introduction of a social tariff for energy bills for elderly people, those on low incomes and disabled people. It would be funded by general taxation and an obligation on the profits of power companies.

The manifesto calls on the next UK government to bring forward an immediate emergency budget to reverse cuts to public spending and deliver meaningful investment in economic growth, including green energy.

It also backs an essentials guarantee, which would ensure that basics such as food and utilities are affordable to all.
(Photo : Pexels/Jeffry Surianto)

US senators on Tuesday blasted Boeing's Chief Executive Dave Calhoun with inquiries about his compensation, Boeing's safety practices, and why he plans to retire at year's end instead of resigning immediately, overshadowing his safety remorse during a hearing before the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations.

Boeing's CEO Grilled Over Safety Woes

The hearing marked the first occasion where Calhoun faced questioning from lawmakers, drawing attention to Boeing's deteriorating safety reputation and the CEO's intention to resign by the end of the year amidst a restructuring of Boeing's management.

In response to tough questioning from Republican Senator Josh Hawley, who queried why he had not resigned and accused him of strip-mining Boeing despite earning a multimillion-dollar pay package, Calhoun only asserted that he was proud of every action his company has taken so far.

Prosecutors must notify a federal judge in Texas of their decisions by July 7. In May, the Justice Department determined that Boeing had not adequately developed, implemented, and enforced a compliance and ethics program, which was required under a deferred prosecution agreement following the fatal crashes.

Calhoun accepted responsibility for the incidents that have plunged Boeing into crisis over the past five years, admitting that a manufacturing defect caused the January 5 Alaska Airlines door plug incident. Boeing also acknowledged responsibility for the development of a critical software system associated with the 2018 and 2019 fatal crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia, resulting in a total of 346 fatalities. Calhoun told the reporters of his commitment to transparency. He turned to the families of the crash victims as he entered the hearing room, expressing his apologies for the deeply distressing grief, adding Boeing's full dedication to addressing safety issues.

READ ALSO: Boeing Slaps Back at Whistleblower's Complaint, Defends 787 Dreamliner Against Aircraft's Structural Safety

Boeing's Whistleblowers

Boeing's chief engineer, Howard McKenzie, minimized safety worries regarding hundreds of incorrectly tightened fasteners found on certain widebody 787 jets, a discovery initially reported by Reuters recently. McKenzie acknowledged that the fasteners had been torqued incorrectly but stated that Boeing's initial analysis indicated they were safe.

Last week, Boeing informed the US Justice Department that it believed it had not breached a deferred prosecution agreement, which protects the company from criminal charges related to the crashes.

Senator Blumenthal criticized Boeing's focus on quarterly earnings calls instead of long-term innovation, emphasizing the need for the company to prioritize future generations. He mentioned that a new whistleblower, Sam Mohawk, who works as a quality assurance investigator at Boeing's 737 factory in Renton, Washington, came forward after a previous whistleblower testified in April.

Blumenthal revealed that Mohawk informed the panel about systemic issues concerning potentially defective parts and inadequate documentation handling at Boeing. According to a committee report released before the hearing, Mohawk stated that his responsibilities dealing with non-conforming parts became significantly more challenging after the resumption of MAX production in 2020 got involved with two fatal crashes. The report also mentioned that Mohawk submitted a related claim to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in June.

Boeing's Commitment to Safety Standards

Boeing issued a statement indicating that it is currently reviewing the claims it became aware of on Monday. Boeing emphasizes the safety of its aircraft and the flying public as its foremost priority. Boeing also noted that it has expanded the size of its quality team and significantly increased the number of inspections per airplane since 2019.

Since the mid-air blowout of a door plug on a 737 MAX 9 jet on January 5, regulators and airlines have intensified their scrutiny of Boeing. The National Transportation Safety Board reported that four critical bolts were absent from the Alaska Airlines aircraft, and the Justice Department initiated a criminal investigation in response to the incident.

Boeing also submitted a quality improvement plan to the FAA on May 30, after being given a 90-day deadline by Whitaker to create a thorough strategy addressing systemic quality-control issues. Whitaker has also prohibited Boeing from increasing production of the MAX aircraft.

RELATED ARTICLE: Boeing Intensifying its Quality, Safety, Compliance Efforts, Receives 500% Upsurge in Speak Up Reporting

 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Peter Dutton has announced the Coalition proposes to build seven nuclear power plants and two proposed small modular reactors, but dodged questions about the cost of the plan.

A snap Coalition party room meeting on Wednesday heard the opposition proposes that Tarong and Callide in Queensland; Mount Piper and Liddell in New South Wales; Collie in Western Australia; Loy Yang in Victoria; and the Northern power station in South Australia host nuclear power plants.

The plan has been panned as more expensive than firming renewable energy and guaranteed to increase emissions due to increased reliance on fossil fuels until nuclear power is ready, which the Coalition claims could be as soon as 2035 in contrast to expert advice.

At a press conference in Sydney, Dutton confirmed the power plants, if built, would be owned by the commonwealth government, a similar model to NBN Co and Snowy Hydro.

But Dutton refused to say what the cost will be to the Australian taxpayer, claiming without evidence it will cost a fraction of Labors power plans. He said the cost would be released in due course, but did not commit to it before the election.

The sites are mostly in Coalition-held electorates: Colin Boyces seat of Flynn, the Nationals leader David Littleprouds seat of Maranoa; Rick Wilsons seat of OConnor; and Rowan Ramseys seat of Grey. Liddell is in Labor MP Dan Repacholis seat of Hunter. Mount Piper is in National turned independent MP Andrew Gees electorate of Calare.

The sites were chosen on the basis of water availability, connection to the grid and the closure date of existing coal power plants. None are now owned by the commonwealth, which Dutton suggested could be overcome by compulsorily acquiring the sites.

Dutton said the seven locations can host new nuclear sites and thatll be part of an energy mix with renewables and significant amounts of gas  particularly in the interim period.

Construction of nuclear power plants would utilise the existing distribution networks when coal power plants reach the end of their life, he said.

The CSIRO Gencost report advised a 15+ year development time should be expected for nuclear in Australia, meaning if a decision to pursue the technology was made next year then a plant would be deployed no sooner than 2040.

Dutton suggested that building two plants by 2035-37 with the remainder to be built in the 2040s was achievable and a sensible rollout. Dutton made light of the lead time, joking I only have plans for three to four terms in government.

Dutton said the Coalition would work with experts to determine the best technology for each site but, according to a media release, the power stations in Western and South Australia would be SMR only.

Despite the fact SMRs are not currently commercially available, Dutton asserted that the technology is available, with the same technology for nuclear-propelled submarines able to be translated into civilian electricity.

The federal Coalition has attempted to ramp up pressure on Labor for refusing to lift the ban on nuclear energy, but faces opposition at the state level from its own side of politics, as Guardian Australia revealed in March.

Nuclear power is banned in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, which prompted questions in the party room on Wednesday. The Coalition would also require the Senate to overturn the federal ban.

On Tuesday the Queensland Liberal National party leader, David Crisafulli, ruled out repealing Queenslands legislated ban on the construction and operation of nuclear reactors.

The answer is no, and Ive made my view very clear on that, he said, describing nuclear power as not on our plan, not on our agenda.

Dutton denied that his party is divided but acknowledged there had been some debate about whether premiers would agree to the plan. He suggested the commonwealth would negotiate to overcome their objections if the Coalition were elected.

Somebody famously said I would not stand between the premier and a bucket of money, he said.

The Coalition also played down the potential for local communities to oppose the plan. The shadow energy minister, Ted OBrien, said they will benefit from the cheapest and cleanest and most consistent energy in the country; while Dutton said former coal communities are instantly supportive of this proposal.

In its latest GenCost report the CSIRO said electricity from nuclear energy would be at least 50% more expensive than solar and wind, with a theoretical 1,000MW nuclear plant built today to cost at least $8.6bn.

The chief executive of the Clean Energy Council, Kane Thornton, said the Coalition policy is a recipe for delay and skyrocketing energy bills.

Australia has no nuclear power industry, so building new reactors would take at least 20 years.

Ahead of the announcement the treasurer, Jim Chalmers, described the Coalitions policy as economic insanity.

Nuclear takes longer, it costs more and it will squander Australias unique combination of advantages, he told Radio National.

It is the worst combination of economic and ideological stupidity  it is fiscally irresponsible.
The ex-Labour and Respect Party MP called Princess Anne an 'outstanding woman' - Kirsty Wigglesworth

George Galloway has called for a referendum on the future of the monarchy and said Princess Anne should be president if it is abolished.

The leader of the Workers Party of Britain made the tongue-in-cheek remark as he launched his partys manifesto on Wednesday, which includes a call for voters to say whether they think monarchy should be abolished.

When asked by The Telegraph how Mr Galloway felt about raising the issue while the King and Princess of Wales undergo cancer treatment, Mr Galloway said: Our issue is with unelected power... its why we oppose monarchy - nothing personal.

I happen to know Princess Anne and Id have backed her for president of Britain any day, an outstanding woman,  he added.

Future of the monarchy

The 34-page long party manifesto contained numerous pledges - including the eradication of nuclear weapons, a ban on career politicians from the House of Lords and a review which would aim to allow all citizens the option to retire at the age of 60.

In a chapter of the document entitled Democratic Reform, the brochure read: Our demand is that the British people be given a say in the future of the monarchy and that a referendum be held to decide this.

We do not seek to set down the precise question, nor propose an ideal form of change to the existing constitution, let that be informed by rational public debate.

Mr Galloway launched his party's 34-page manifesto - Anthony Devlin

Speaking to journalists at the manifesto launch in Manchester, Mr Galloway, 69, went on to add there was lots that is wrong with the monarchical system in Britain, even if the Royal family were paragons of Olympian virtue and strength.

He added: It is a Ruritanian absurdity that the firstborn to the existing monarch will automatically become the head of your state.

Only an infantilised people could possibly regard that in 2024 as a suitable way to run a realm.

The ex-Labour and Respect Party MP also said there were many alternatives that are possible and this was why the idea had been treated in the way it was in the manifesto.

I declare my candidature

Jokingly, he said: There could be an indirect election for the head of state, there could be a direct election for the head of state - in which case I declare my candidature.

Mr Galloway also told of how he met the late Queen Elizabeth II while working at a hotel and said while she did a great job, he said a referendum on whether the monarchy should continue should have been held after her death.

The question and answer session followed a 30-minute speech given by Mr Galloway, which he began after arriving 15 minutes late to the launch.

Throughout the lengthy speech, he claimed Britain will be at war within six months if Sir Keir Starmer were to become Prime Minister.

Mr Galloway also said Nigel Farage had something to say but that what hes saying is wrong.
Russell Crowe in The Exorcism - PA

What possessed Russell Crowe to make two exorcism flicks in as many years? He was last seen trundling from Rome to northern Spain on a motor-scooter, cassocked, in The Popes Exorcist, which was hokey fun in a limited sort of way.

The Exorcism dials the fun down and the meta up. Way up. Crowe is not playing a priest this time, but a washed-up actor playing one on a film set. After two years lost to alcoholism and the death of his wife from cancer, this faded star has landed a key supporting role in a carbon copy (no one uses the word reboot) of William Friedkins The Exorcist.

The film-in-progress that will co-star Crowes character (The Georgetown Project) threatens us mainly with murk and dissatisfaction. The same, alas, is true of The Exorcism itself.

Scrutinise the surname of director Joshua John Miller, and yet further layers of self-referentiality announce themselves. Hes the son of Jason Miller, who was Father Damien in Friedkins film. Crowes character is nudgingly named Anthony Miller  which is actually confusing, because in both age and the scale of his part, he seems a closer fit to Max von Sydow.

Puzzling out the finer details here wont help us much, anyway. This is masturbatory pseudo-horror, with about 20 scattered minutes of even attempted scares. It remains stubbornly confounding  a rough draft with hints of winking wit.

It does start with a promising notion. The original actor earmarked for Crowes part meets a sticky end, when he walks around the set one night rehearsing his lines, and demonic forces whip up a demise that could pass for suicide. Incompetently edited as it is, the hook works: why would the Devil want Crowes character to get this part instead?

To possess him turns out to be the answer. Before he starts looking distinctly mouldy and the opaque contact lenses go in, we trudge through a rapprochement with his daughter (Ryan Simpkins) and a few amusing scenes with the director (a bilious Adam Goldberg) who regrets hiring him. A real-life priest (David Hyde Pierce) is the on-set consultant, unaware that Anthony was abused as an altar boy, which makes his attitude to the collar unsurprisingly queasy.

Semi-intriguing as this may all be, its still headed to a formulaic showdown in an upstairs bedroom, with all the usual incantations and ramped-up sound design on a tight budget. Its priest vs unpriest, this time, with the demon pinging between them. The stakes are just feeble, for all Crowes perfectly solid efforts, and the default level of dinge in the film saps all excitement away.

15 cert, 95 min. In cinemas from Friday June 21
Maya Forstater runs the charity Sex Matters - PA

A leading feminist campaigner has said police have been investigating her for almost a year over a social media post she wrote about a transgender doctor.

Maya Forstater, 51, said the Metropolitan Police is examining a post on X, formerly Twitter from June last year in which she said Dr Kamilla Kamaruddin enjoys intimately examining female patients without their consent.

It came after the former GP, who transitioned from male to female, wrote in a blog post about being permitted by patients to perform more intimate examinations that they did not let me to do when I was a male GP.

The alleged offence is punishable by up to two years in prison.

The post linked to a previous blog article in which Ms Forstater questioned whether Kamaruddins female patients could truly consent to being examined by her.

Ms Forstater, who runs the charity Sex Matters, came to prominence for winning an employment tribunal after successfully arguing that she had been discriminated against on the basis of her beliefs after losing her job as a tax expert over publishing gender critical messages.

In an interview with The Times, Ms Forstater said that she received an email from the Metropolitan Police in August last year informing her that she was being investigated for malicious communication but was not told why.

The following month, she was interviewed under caution at Charing Cross police station, where she claims an officer asked her if she understood her tweet might be viewed as transphobic.

My tweet isnt even something that would get deleted by Twitter

Ms Forstater told the newspaper she is a victim of bullying and harassment because of her views and has not ruled out taking legal action against the police.

She said: I think the investigation shouldnt have even got as far as questioning me. My tweet isnt even something that would get deleted by Twitter, let alone for it to be a crime. Being threatened with arrest and then having a police investigation hanging over my head for almost a year now has been very stressful.

Ten months after first being contacted by the police, Forstater is allegedly still under investigation. She told The Times: Despite my solicitor following up with written representations giving chapter and verse on the law, arguing that the investigation is unjustified and pressing for resolution, I remain under investigation.

I still dont know if I will be charged and prosecuted. It was plain when I was interviewed that the police had given no consideration to the contents of my blogpost about Dr Kamaruddin.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman told The Times: Since this allegation was reported in June 2023, a number of enquiries have been carried out by officers.

These enquiries are ongoing. While it is right that we carry out a full investigation, we do recognise the length of time this has taken so far and the impact it will undoubtedly have had on all parties.
Telegraph reader Nick Hurt, 53, a business owner, and his son, Henry, 21, a student, have outlined what they want from the election - Amanda Russell

With the countrys first national vote since 2019 just round the corner, winning over the electorate with its differing demographic and priorities is a huge challenge for all parties.

Telegraph reader Nick Hurt and his son, Henry, have outlined what they want out of the election, in turn, showcasing the difference in approach of two family members from different generations. While Nick exudes feelings of despair, Henrys outlook is rather more hopeful.

Im voting Reform  I want to see the Tories extinct

'The Conservatives have had their chance, and they repeatedly blew it', says Nick Hurt, from Chelmsford - Amanda Russell

I despair at the state of the current Conservative Party. A few years ago I was an active and paid-up member. Since then, I have watched the party fail in almost every way possible; the two biggest being abandoning conservative principles, and the second is appointing ministers to senior jobs that they have no hope of succeeding in.

Ministers who have no real skills other than handling the media, and a hinterland made up of nothing other than politics, have found themselves out of their depth, running offices of state with thousands of employees without the grit, skills or experience needed to be able to deliver positive change.

On July 4, I will vote Reform (and I have recently joined the party). I want to see a near extinction level event for the current Conservative Party. In the 1980s we talked about how capitalism brought about the creative destruction of failing companies and industries. I want to see the same for the Conservative Party now, forcing a significant change in its leadership, MP selection process and funding, and a clearout of their MPs. Their failure is so complete, nothing less than a complete restructuring is needed.

No doubt Tory MPs (without a hint of self-awareness or irony) will lazily fall back on the old line that a vote for anyone else other than a Conservative will usher in the most Left-leaning government in generations, (and they are probably right) but they have had their chance, and they repeatedly blew it.

I have no doubt that Sir Keir Starmer will wake up as prime minister on July 5, and I have equal faith that things will get much worse under a Starmer-led hard-Left government. I view the choice we have on July 4 in a more strategic context.

Starmer is no Tony Blair, and his top team could not hold a candle to Blairs first cabinet, from both an IQ, or life-and-career experience perspective.

As a country we are already broke, so the usual Labour strategy of significant increases in spending will be constrained. Much of the world is turning Right, and there is a real chance of a Trump White House, so Starmer may find himself isolated. Starmers union paymasters will soon want payback for their support and the hard-Left will come out of hiding. There is no shortage of potential slips and trips for Labour in government and all this means Starmers honeymoon period will be short.

Once the election has passed, my wish is to see the dominant Right-of-centre party (whichever party that is), start to get ready to govern with competence and confidence again. That starts while Labour are in office as we will need leaders who are willing to both defend and promote ideas from the Right.

Once Starmer exits No 10, the Right will need people who can lead a period of significant renewal, rebuilding, and healing. The Right needs to spend time re-understanding the psychology and skills needed to be a confident and competent leader of both the country and large offices of state.

A crisis in our country is coming, and we need to start finding candidates now who can grow into these roles and create leadership development paths to support their growth.

The housing crisis is apparent and seems to have been completely ignored

Henry is calling for more self-governance for the North - Amanda Russell

This will be my first general election, so I cant speak of my extensive loyalties to any one party because this is my first rodeo.

I take no issue voting for whatever party best suits my needs. I am going to use some creative licence and say we are a multi-partisan system.

Following the manifesto releases, Id say Im almost certainly voting Lib Dem. Between their international affairs pledges, new housing developments and the care of young people  their manifesto appeals to me most.

International relations have been so weak in the past decade, Brexit to an extent but also because of a lot of peoples attitudes, and the fact they dont realise it is a two-way street. Its arrogance in many ways, but we as a country think if we build up relationships with other nations we stand nothing to gain and will only be taken advantage of. Its a linear mindset and its not helping anyone. We live in a hyper globalised world. No stopping that now.

Especially for young people who are yet to be settled with a family, I dont see why we should be ignoring the great opportunities abroad. I am studying out of Madrid at present, but have been able to meet people from every continent and discuss politics from every portion of the political compass  that experience is invaluable.

I would also be interested to see the government provide a few more guarantees around utility costs. It is a very studenty subject, but its not just students. Im a student in the North, and blankets can only get you so far. There has since been a cap placed on the price of bills, but I dont want expiring schemes to come to a close solely based off forecasts or expectations. In other words, I would be looking for guarantees of continued support for those who need it. Though I wouldnt want to contribute to some over-extending welfare state.

Finally, I would like to see some policies to support the North. It is somewhat well-trodden ground at this point, but its difficult to ignore the difference in basic infrastructure and job opportunities in London than in cities in the North. I am not naive, I understand its the capital and as such represents the UK and in many ways should take priority, but the success of Manchester with the extra lenience to self-govern and administer extra funds should speak volumes as to what could be done.

While theyre at it, some housing schemes wouldnt go amiss. The housing crisis is apparent, nearly all parties agree, but it seems to be completely ignored and avoided as a possible concern.

This would be a perfect opportunity to invest in northern cities while providing affordable housing. Similarly, if we are funding northern cities, public transport is appalling, its expensive and its never reliable.
George Galloway arrives ahead of his party's manifesto launch, in Manchester on Wednesday - Anthony Devlin/Getty

Diva that he is, Galloway arrived late for his own manifesto launch. Stuck in traffic was the official explanation, inviting us to imagine the hordes of beeping jeeps which used to greet his erstwhile pals Gaddafi and Saddam. I suspect he was actually putting on his makeup.

Were the name no one likes to mention the fluffer in charge of buying time for Gorgeous George told assembled journalists when referencing the partys lack of a polling breakthrough, but we are making waves on the ground. Maybe hes right; theres one thing that really terrifies us journos and thats a mixed metaphor.

Finally the star of the show arrived: dressed in his trademark vanity-reducing hat and a tie that someone had to adjust for him. He looked, ironically, a little like a rabbi. He stood in front of a banner that said Workers, a PowerPoint which had been formatted by someone who couldnt read or at least didnt want anyone else to read the information on it, and what looked like a broken radiator.

Those who say that Nigel Farage is the British Donald Trump are wrong. Likelihood of winning aside, its actually George Galloway. Certainly, there is exquisite Trumpian absurdism in choosing the ninth floor of a swanky hotel in the middle of Manchesters gay district to launch a manifesto deliberately designed to appeal to disaffected socially-conservative Muslim voters.

Of that manifesto, he said that it was A very beautiful document, a very meaningful document  Trumpian syntax delivered in a Scottish drawl. He then launched into an extended rant about the narcissism of small differences, about Winston Churchill, about Jim Callaghan, about spirits, about, for some reason, Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte. About, it seemed, literally anything that came into his head.

Even Mr Galloways private life is somewhat Trumpian; involving six children and four marriages (compared to the Donalds five and three). His uber-glam, much younger wife sat nearby, trying to look stateswoman-like and not at all bored by her husbands Messianic monologues. Shades of Melania at the inauguration.

Putri Gayatri Pertiwi, George Galloway's wife, looks on as he launches his manifesto in Manchester, on Wednesday - Anthony Devlin/Getty

If the style was Trumpian, the substance of Gorgeouss beliefs was harder to pin down, veering as it did between Novara Media and the Telegraph leader page. He wanted a referendum on net zero, recognition for families in the tax system, but also nuclear disarmament and a referendum on the monarchy. Of Tony Blairs recent Pope/Catholic intervention in the trans debate, he scoffed. Only women can have a vagina, who knew that we would need such reassurance from our political leaders!

A supporter hands out placards at the Workers Party of Britain manifesto launch, in Manchester on Wednesday - Anthony Devlin/Getty

By far his biggest beef was with Reform UK, who are evidently cannibalising Workers Party support. Farage, he described (mixing metaphors again) as the third cheek of the uniparty. Mr Galloway was particularly incensed by his non-inclusion in the TV debates between deputy leaders  the seven dwarves as he called them. The Workers Party had more elected politicians within its ranks, he bellowed, so why didnt I even make the dwarf speech?!

George Galloway speaks during his party's manifesto launch - Anthony Devlin/Getty

In the media Q&A, Mr Galloway channelled Jeremy Corbyn by taking the first question from the Morning Star. A Sky News reporter wondered why it was that Nigel Farage was cutting through where the Workers Party wasnt. Galloway glowered at her. Well, he gets endless publicity from you, for a start! This drew the biggest cheer of the day.

MAGA George was on a roll; Joe Biden was a senile dementia patient who cant control his bodily functions. Unlike Donald Trump though, Galloway is unlikely to be anywhere near power in the early hours of the morning after our election. Expect a Scottish-accented round of stop the steal at a leisure centre near you.
Lady Starmer gave evidence at the trial of three protesters in London on Wednesday - Jon Super/AP

Sir Keir Starmers wife has said she felt a bit sick when pro-Palestinian protesters demonstrated outside their family home earlier this year, a court has heard.

On April 9, a banner that read Starmer stop the killing was hung outside the house, surrounded by red handprints, while rows of childrens shoes were laid in front of the door by Youth Demand activists.

Giving evidence in the trial of three protesters at Westminster Magistrates Court, Lady Starmer said she had returned to her home by car when her son saw the protest.

I didnt want to stop and be obvious, she told the court. Asked how seeing the protest had made her feel, she said: I felt a bit sick, to be perfectly honest. I felt apprehensive and uncomfortable.

Lady Starmer said she knew it was people who were not agreeing with my husband and drove around the corner before contacting his office.

Asked by Andrew Morris, defending, whether she knew it was a peaceful protest, Lady Starmer said: It would look like a peaceful protest if it hadnt been outside my home.

The Youth Demand demonstrators hung a banner outside Sir Keir Starmer's house - Maciek Musialek/Story Picture Agency

Sgt Mark Upsdale of the Metropolitan Police, who arrived at the scene at around 2pm and ordered the arrests, also gave evidence at the trial.

Asked by Jacob Hallam KC, prosecuting, whether the protesters were making their intentions known to the officers, he said: They said there was a plan but we are not willing to tell you, or something to that effect.

Sgt Upsdale said holding the protest outside somebodys house instead of outside the House of Commons or Sir Keirs offices was inappropriate. He added: I did not know if they were going to be there 10 minutes or a day.

The court was shown footage shared on social media of the demonstration, which included clips of the three defendants speaking, and police body-worn camera footage of the protesters being arrested by officers outside the house.

Section 42 powers cover the harassment of a person at their home address if an officer suspects it is causing alarm or distress to the occupant.

Leonorah Ward, 21, of Leeds, 23-year-old Zosia Lewis, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and Daniel Formentin, 24, of Leeds, have been charged under section 42 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 and with breaching court bail. All three have denied committing public order offences.

Rows of children's shoes were laid in front of the Labour leader's door to signify children killed in Gaza - Maciek Musialek/Story Picture Agency

Mr Formentin, representing himself, told the court the protesters took as many steps as we could to mitigate any threat, and had no plans to confront anyone.

When Mr Hallam put it to him that they still would have been intimidating and threatening, Mr Formentin said: No.

When the prosecutor suggested he had never considered how someone living in the house might find the protest distressing, Mr Formentin said: I think it could be seen as distressing.

Youth Demand describes itself as a new youth resistance campaign fighting for an end to genocide. Childrens shoes have been used at a number of pro-Palestine demonstrations to signify the children killed in Gaza.

The same group sprayed Labour HQ with red paint, and later claimed 11 people had been arrested in relation to that incident.

The trial continues.
The two main political parties outline their housing policies ahead of polling day. (ZUMA Press, ZUMA Press Inc)

The Conservative and Labour manifestos seem to align when it comes to boosting support for first-time buyers and the need to build more homes in the UK. However, a critical shortfall in funding for affordable housing will make these targets hard to hit, according to new Resolution Foundation research.

Both major parties have pledged significant initiatives aimed at supporting first-time buyers. Labour plans to extend the Mortgage Guarantee Scheme permanently. Introduced by the previous government, this allows lenders to pay a fee in return for the government underwriting the riskiest part of a mortgage.

Meanwhile, the Conservatives have set a target of delivering 1.6 million new homes by 2029, surpassing Labour's commitment of 1.5 million over the same period. Achieving these targets, which require an annual delivery of at least 300,000 new homes in England alone, hinges on substantial reforms to the planning system.

Read more: What Labour and the Tories are offering pensioners in their manifestos

Historically, the UK last approached these levels of housebuilding during the 1970s, when local authorities and housing associations played a pivotal role in construction. However, recent decades have seen their contribution diminish significantly, posing a challenge to meeting current housing needs.

Both main parties say they would achieve their goals through reforming the planning system, although while the Conservatives are wedded to the green belt, Labours strategy is to allow some building on lower quality grey belt land.

The Resolution Foundation warns that the absence of funding specifically earmarked for affordable housing will make it extremely challenging for either of the main parties to get remotely close to their housebuilding targets. This funding gap threatens to exacerbate pressures on low-income families, particularly as existing plans to reduce support for low-income private renters via a cash freeze in Local Housing Allowance (LHA) remain.

More positively, both parties have committed funding to improving the energy efficiency of the nations housing stock. The Conservatives have committed 6bn over the next three years to this goal, while Labour have committed an additional 6.6bn over the next parliament through their Warm Homes Plan.

Yet, their plans to freeze LHA support for low-income private renters could strain household budgets further. This, coupled with record numbers of households in temporary accommodation, underscores the urgent need for a more comprehensive approach to housing policy.

Private renters are paying on average more than three-times as much as mortgagors for their housing.

Read more: UK housing market steadies despite election uncertainty

Cara Pacitti, senior economist at the Resolution Foundation, highlighted the need for additional funding to translate political consensus into reality. Housing has risen up the political agenda in recent years, both in terms of its salience as an issue among voters, and as a focus for action in the main parties manifestos.

There is a welcome new policy consensus emerging on both the need to assist first-time buyers and to dramatically increase the number of new homes built across Britain, in order to reduce housing costs and get youth home ownership on a sustained upward path.

Read more: Best UK mortgage deals of the week

But whoever wins the next election will struggle to hit these stretching targets without significantly more funding in place to boost affordable house building and to support low-income families with rising rents. Britains new housing consensus desperately needs new cash for it to deliver.

Housing is a key issue among voters, with nearly a quarter citing it as a top national concern, up from 11% in 2020. The Foundation's analysis shows a long-term fall in home ownership, especially among young people. The share of families headed by someone aged 19-29 years that own their own home is at 12%, less than half the level it reached in the peak home-owning year of 1990, although it has risen from a low point of 8% in 2015-16.

Watch: House prices creep up as market shows 'resilience'

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
Andy Brown will appear on the ballot paper on 4 July next to a Labour logo despite his suspension. Photograph: Aberdeenshire Labour Facebook

Labour has suspended one of its candidates after reports that he shared pro-Russian material online.

The shadow chancellor, Rachel Reeves, said she hadnt heard of the candidate Andy Brown until the disciplinary action was taken, but said it was absolutely right for Labour to swiftly remove support for him.

Brown is fighting for the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East constituency against the Scottish Conservative leader, Douglas Ross, and the Scottish National partys Seamus Logan.

His suspension just over two weeks before the general election means he will still appear next to the Labour logo on the ballot paper on 4 July but will be an independent if elected.

After the Salisbury novichok poisonings, Brown allegedly shared an article on social media in April 2018 from the Russian state media outlet RT, which claimed that the toxin used in the Salisbury poisonings was never produced in Russia, but was in service in the US, UK, and other Nato states.

Dawn Sturgess, 44, died after being exposed to the nerve agent novichok, which had been left in a discarded perfume bottle in Amesbury, Wiltshire, in July 2018. The inquiry into her death is due to start in October.

It had also been reported by the Press and Journal that Brown shared a social media post implying that the then prime minister Theresa May was hiding vital information about the poisonings.

Brown had also shared a post in 2018 that appeared to downplay allegations of antisemitism against Labour. The post featured a quote from a Jewish historian that said the real issue  is that rightwing Jews in the Labour party and outside the party object to the fact that Jeremy Corbyn is a consistent supporter of Palestinian rights.

Reeves told Sky News: I hadnt heard of this guy until this morning and Im very, very pleased that I will hopefully not have to hear of him again because hes been suspended as a Labour candidate. That is absolutely right. Weve taken the swift action. As soon as these postings came to light, we got rid of him.

People who dont share our values in the changed Labour party are kicked out of the Labour party, while the Conservative party continues to harbour people like Liz Truss, who has caused so much damage to the lives of working people up and down the country.

A Scottish Labour spokesperson told the BBC: Andy Brown has been administratively suspended from the Labour party pending investigation. We have taken the decision to withdraw support from a parliamentary candidate during a general election.

Anas Sarwar and Keir Starmer have changed the Labour party and said that every candidate and MP would operate to the highest standards. This action shows that they meant it.

On Wednesday evening, Brown rejected the claims and suggested he had been hung out to dry. He told the BBC: I didnt share those. Where theyve been shared from or how has someone accessed my account and shared them, it may have been corrupted at some point  but honestly, I did not share those.

Pressed on the possibility that he had forgotten sending the posts, he said: No, I definitely didnt make that. I would never like these at all. Its not the sort of comments I would comment on.

Nobody has checked this. It is quite shocking that Ive been treated this way. Ive been hung out to dry, basically.
The proposal will be implemented starting in January 2025. Photograph: Drazen Zigic/Getty Images

The Los Angeles unified school district board passed a resolution on Tuesday banning cellphones from district classrooms. As the second-largest school district in the US, the vote makes it the largest school district in the US to approve such a ban.

As more educators across the US explore similar policies, California governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday called for a statewide ban on phones in class.

The measure in Los Angeles was introduced by board member Nick Melvoin and will be implemented starting in January 2025 after passing in a 5-2 vote. Melvoin said in a statement the measure is meant to support students academic success and wellbeing, adding that studies have shown smartphones and social media distract kids from learning and stifle their in-person social connections.

Kids no longer have the opportunity to just be kids, Melvoin said. Im hoping this resolution will help students not only focus in class, but also give them a chance to interact and engage more with each other  and just be kids.

The Los Angeles ban is not the first of its kind, with districts increasingly exploring ways to address technology use in the classroom. A measure proposed in South Carolina this month would ban students from using cellphones during the school day across all public schools in the state.

To enforce such bans, school districts have proposed locking up devices in lockers or partnering with companies that provide special pouches to keep devices away until they are released automatically at the end of the day. The superintendents team at the Los Angeles unified school district will spend the next 120 days researching the best way to implement the ban, said Ally Salvaria, communications director for Melvoin, and will be considering those options and more.

Educators attempts to address phone and social media use among students come as the US surgeon general Vivek Murthy urged social media platforms on Monday to issue health warnings for young users amid what he called an ongoing youth mental health crisis.

Related: New York governor to launch bill banning smartphones in schools

While we are late as a society to ultimately making these platforms safer, its urgent that we start taking action now, Murthy said. Because the truth is, theres nothing more important to the mental health and wellbeing of our kids.

Such warnings would mimic those used to reduce tobacco use, first issued in the US in 1966 when 42% of Americans smoked. Today, only 12% of Americans smoke, with the reduction being contributed to a number of factors, including education.

Freedom-of-speech advocates have spoken out against such warnings, stating that efforts to protect childrens safety online should be balanced with privacy concerns. Such bans risk cutting young people off from important resources, said Aaron Mackey, free speech and transparency litigation director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

If Congress is serious about protecting children online, it should enact policies that promote choice in the marketplace and digital literacy, he said. Most important, we need comprehensive privacy laws that protect all internet users from the predatory data gathering and sales that target us for advertising and abuse.
Michael Portillo losing his seat to Labour's Stephen Twigg in 1997 - REUTERS / Alamy Stock Photo

Michael Portillo has warned many Tory candidates could suffer the same fate on July 4 as he did in 1997 as voters switch off from the Conservative Party.

The so-called Portillo moment was one of the defining points of the 1997 general election as the Tory cabinet minister was ousted by Labour, signalling that Sir Tony Blair was heading for a landslide victory.

Speaking to GB News on Tuesday night, Mr Portillo said the Conservatives have faced an uphill battle ever since Rishi Sunak triggered the contest in May, and now risk putting voters off completely with their confused campaign messaging.

The former Tory MP, now a TV presenter, said: It seems that many Conservative incumbents could suffer the same fate [as he did in 1997].

They know already that over the last five years of Tory government people have ceased to listen to what their party has to say.

I rather assume that whilst half the party talks of winning and the other half warns of an upcoming Labour super-majority, the voters will shut their ears to both.

It comes after Best for Britain, the anti-Tory campaign group, warned the Conservatives face five potential Portillo moments if people vote tactically at the general election.

Based on the most up-to-date MRP polling, the organisation predicts that Tory big beasts Penny Mordaunt, Jeremy Hunt, Grant Shapps, James Cleverly and Robert Jenrick could lose their seats if voters club together to oust the Conservatives.

Mr Sunak, the Prime Minister; Liz Truss, his predecessor; and former home secretaries Suella Braverman and Dame Priti Patel were also listed as possible casualties.

Mr Portillo accused the Conservatives of making their campaign about themselves, rather than focusing on Labours plans.

For the Tories, ever since the soggy election announcement by the bedraggled Prime Minister in Downing Street, its been an uphill battle, he said.

Given Labours lead in the polls, perhaps it might have helped the Tories to focus on Sir Keir Starmers party, especially on what its going to do and how its going to pay for it.

But the Conservatives seemingly cant help but make the campaign about themselves, interrupting Labour whenever its making mistakes, and blurting out policy announcements.

Last week, Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, caused a stir by warning voters not to hand Labour a super-majority on July 4, insisting it would be unwise to give Sir Keir unchecked power.

Campaign in a muddle

Mr Portillo said the campaign had been confused and in a muddle, making it hard for Tories to know where to invest their time and energy.

Recently the Conservatives campaign has looked confused over whether they hope to win the election or whether their message to electors is that they should avoid giving Labour a super-majority, he said.

One result of this muddle is that the Conservatives will not know where to invest their campaigning efforts.

Can they be seen to abandon seats that have traditionally been regarded as marginal but which may already be lost, to put resources into seats traditionally thought to be safe where the Conservative candidate is in fact now in mortal danger?
Loy Yang power station in the Latrobe Valley, slated by the Coalition as a site for a future nuclear facility. Photograph: Julian Smith/AAP

Peter Duttons claim that nuclear energy would lead to cheaper power bills has been rejected by energy experts, with one saying there was no credible reason to think adding the most expensive form of bulk electricity would cut prices.

They said a range of evidence, including a recent CSIRO analysis, suggested nuclear power would be more expensive than other options, and that solar and wind system under construction  supported by firming technology  was the cheapest option.

The opposition leader on Wednesday revealed the site of seven proposed nuclear power plants that he said would be built and owned by the commonwealth under the Coalition.

Dutton did not provide evidence of how much the plants would cost, explain how the Coalition would lift legislated federal and state bans on nuclear power, or say why the Coalition believed the first two plants could be online by 2035 or 2037  a much faster timeframe than experts say would be possible.

Related: Chris Bowen labels Coalitions nuclear plan a risky scam as premiers affirm state bans

He said nuclear energy would lead to cheaper, cleaner and consistent electricity than Australians had under the Albanese government, and its commitment for 82% of generation to come from renewable sources by 2030.

Dr Dylan McConnell, an energy systems researcher at the University of New South Wales, said there was no credible reason to think that adding the most expensive bulk form of electricity would make electricity prices go down.

With a majority of the countrys coal-fired power plants due to close over the next decade, Dutton said that the Coalition would use less renewable energy and instead support new gas-fired power, a fossil fuel, to ensure the electricity grid remained reliable until nuclear plants were online.

But McConnell said gas power was also a significantly more expensive form of electricity in the national grid than solar and wind, and using more of it than needed would push up prices. Gas is not cheap. Its a huge cost, he said.

The Grattan Institutes energy and climate change program director, Tony Wood, said the Coalition had not backed up its claim that nuclear generation would be a cheaper option. Theres nothing in what weve seen so far that would substantiate the claims that its going to be a certain price at a certain time, he said.

Wood rejected the Coalitions claim that electricity was expensive today due to Labors renewable energy policies. Its not true, he said.

He said electricity prices leapt 20% last year due to Russias assault on Ukraine pushing up fossil fuel prices, a lack of available gas, old coal plants having unscheduled outages and extreme weather leading to some coalmines being flooded. He said they had since started to come back down.

Wood said the Coalitions climate policy would probably lead to it having to pay coal-fired power plants to stay open longer than planned, a step already being taken by the New South Wales and Victorian governments, and that relying on gas power would be more likely to lead to more expensive electricity.

McConnell said claims by the Coalition that nuclear power had led to lower prices in other jurisdictions  including Canada and France  were misleading, and irrelevant to the costs that would be faced in Australia. He said both had established nuclear industries decades ago, but the cost of wholesale electricity from nuclear generation in Ontario was still higher than the wholesale cost in some Australian states from new, firmed renewable energy.

McConnell said it was extremely dubious that nuclear plants could be built in Australia before 2040, as the Coalition claimed. Nuclear is just not able to address the things we need to do in the electricity sector in the timeframes they need to be addressed, he said.

Wood said this particularly applied to the Coalitions plan to potentially use small modular nuclear reactors, a technology that is not yet proven commercially viable, in South Australia and Western Australia by 2035. The timeframe there seems remarkable, he said.

The Coalition wants to build the plants on the site of existing or past coal-fired plants at Tarong and Callide in Queensland, Mount Piper and Liddell in New South Wales, Collie in Western Australia, Loy Yang in Victoria, and near Port Augusta in South Australia.

The advocacy group Solutions for Climate Australia said the Coalitions nuclear proposal was a fantasy. The groups director, Dr Barry Traill, said its analysis found the Coalitions approach would lead to at least 2.3bn tonnes of heat-trapping carbon dioxide being pumped into the atmosphere as the country used more fossil fuels and less renewable energy in the decades ahead.

We cant afford to wait, he said. Action this decade is critical.
The calf  named Beau Lucy  suffered a gash to its leg but is recovering after being treated by a vet - Steve Reigate/Picture Partnership

The police officer who drove into a cow remains off front-line duties despite the watchdog refusing to investigate, it can be revealed.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) decided that an investigation into whether the methods used to contain the cow were appropriate was needed but that the matter was for Surrey Polices professional standards department to look into.

It comes amid a row over the force used by officers in Surrey, who were filmed ramming a police car into the calf  named Beau Lucy  in a residential street in Feltham, west London.

But despite the decision, the officer, who is being supported by staff at the Surrey Police Federation, remains off front-line duties, it is understood.

A spokesman for the Surrey Police Federation said: Policing is a difficult, challenging and dangerous job.

Officers are rightly held to account for their actions  we have no issue with this. But this fair, balanced and timely accountability must not come in the form of trial by media or indeed social media.

Or loaded comments from politicians and high-profile people who are not aware of all the facts.

Surrey Police Federation are supporting our colleague caught in a media storm over the weekend. We must remember there is a human being behind the uniform.

The incident is subject to investigation and we would urge patience and understanding during this time.

We would remind people who may be shocked and concerned at this incident to note that we do not know all the information  and all the officers involved will be spoken to determine what happened and why.

Please let the investigation run its course so that we can get answers.

And we would ask the Surrey public to please continue to support our police officers who keep you safe every day, doing a tough job.

David Barton, the National Farmers Union (NFU) livestock board chair, said: Like all farmers, I was deeply shocked and disturbed by this awful footage.

Its very rare for a cow or calf to get loose in an urban environment and I understand that the police have a responsibility to first and foremost protect the public. But there has to be a protocol in place to humanely and safely deal with these situations.

The NFU is working with Surrey Police and other forces across the country to help ensure this situation doesnt happen again.

The officer, who was driving the police vehicle used to ram into the calf, was removed from front-line duties on Sunday amid widespread anger over the use of force.

The 10-month-old female calf escaped from common grazing land in Staines on Friday evening and was reportedly charging around a residential area.

Surrey Police insisted officers had spent several hours trying to catch the animal before the decision was made to run it down using a car to keep the public safe.

But when footage of the incident emerged, James Cleverly, the Home Secretary, demanded an urgent explanation from the force, describing the response as unnecessarily heavy-handed.

Other commentators, including animal rights campaigners, complained about the polices response. Chris Packham, the wildlife television presenter, described those responsible as monsters and suggested they should be investigated and prosecuted.

The calf suffered a gash to its leg but is recovering after being treated by a vet.

Its owners, named only as Rob and Kate, said allowing Surrey Police to investigate themselves made it easier for the force to justify the action taken.

They added: We still hold the thought that the handling of this situation was cruel and barbaric.

The calf's owners say 'the handling of this situation was cruel and barbaric' - Steve Reigate/PICTURE PARTNERSHIP

Surrey Police said officers tried a number of ways to capture the cow after reports it was running at members of the public and had damaged a car, before the decision was taken to stop it by force using a patrol car.

The IOPC said on Wednesday that the force could investigate what happened internally.

A spokesman said: We received two complaint referrals from Surrey Police on June 17 in relation to the actions and decision-making by officers from the force while trying to detain a cow in Feltham, west London, on Friday June 14.

Footage of the cow being struck by a police car was shared widely on social media and we have examined this along with footage and audio provided by the force from the officers body-worn videos.

They show the animal ramming a police car, charging at members of the public and posing a risk to road users.

After careful consideration, we have decided that an investigation is required into whether the methods used to contain the cow were appropriate and proportionate in these circumstances, and whether the officers upheld police standards of professional behaviour throughout the incident, including their communication with members of the public who were present.

However, we do not consider the investigation needs to be undertaken by the IOPC so it will be for Surreys professional standards department to take it forward.

If the complainants are unhappy with the outcome of the investigation they will have a right of review to the IOPC, providing a level of independent oversight.
Sir Alan Bates is leading the fight against the Post Office - David Rose

Names and addresses of hundreds of Horizon scandal victims have been published on the Post Office website.

The beleaguered organisation is already the subject of a public inquiry after more than 900 sub-postmasters were wrongfully prosecuted due to faulty software incorrectly recording shortfalls on their branch accounts.

Yet on Wednesday, the Daily Mail reported that the Post Office published on its corporate website a list of 555 wronged sub-postmasters, who won a High Court battle against the organisation in 2019, in a fight led by Sir Alan Bates.

The dossier showed full names and home addresses of the victims, many of whom are set to receive significant sums of money in compensation, the newspaper reports.

Im just so angry

It is understood that the Post Office removed the document, entitled Confidential Settlement Deed, from its website after the newspaper alerted the organisation to its existence.

Text within the paperwork reportedly made it clear that its contents were private, despite the document being published in full.

It is the latest humiliation for the Post Office, which could now face an investigation by the Information Commissioner and a hefty fine if it is found to have committed a data breach.

Wendy Buffrey was wrongly accused of stealing 24,000 when she ran a post office in Cheltenham - BBC

Wendy Buffrey, 64, who was prosecuted for an alleged 36,000 shortfall incorrectly recorded on her branch in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, told the newspaper: Im incandescent. Im just so angry. We all thought they couldnt do any more to us than theyve already done.

They need to pay for this. Its yet another thing theyve done that could potentially destroy one of our lives. They just dont stop, do they?

Meanwhile, Raoul Lumb, a partner at data protection law firm SMB, told the Mail it appeared to be a remarkable breach of the UKs data protection laws and showed a cavalier disregard for the rights of sub-postmasters.

Difficult to see any justification

He added: It is particularly embarrassing for the Post Office because clause 12 of the document is a clause which explicitly obliges all the parties to keep [it] confidential.

Given that, its difficult to see any justification for the Post Office to have made it public in a completely unredacted form.

A Post Office spokesperson said: The document in question has been removed from our website.

We are investigating as an urgent priority how it came to be published. We are in the process of notifying the Information Commissioners Office of the incident, in line with our regulatory requirements.

At the time the Mail approached it, the ICO said: We have not received a data breach report on this matter. Organisations must notify the ICO within 72 hours.
Train used to launch North Korean missiles

When Russian forces first launched a North Korean missile at Ukraine, it landed in a field outside the southern city of Zaporizhzhia.

The United States said the attack had probably ended in abject failure.

Since then, Western analysts and the US have estimated that as many as 50 North Korean-produced short-range ballistic missiles have been used by Russia against Ukraine.

Those looking for clues on who gains what from Vladimir Putins trip to the hermit nation of North Korea could do worse than studying the battlefields of Ukraine.

While Putin is an obvious beneficiary of more weapons, Kim Jong-un is also gathering indispensable knowledge and intelligence on his own fledgling missile programme.

North Korea has been able to test the efficacy of their small arms in various other conflicts around the world, but they havent been able to test their missiles anywhere, Samuel Ramani, a fellow at the RUSI think tank, said.

Since North Korea started sending weapons to Russia, it has shipped at least 10,000 containers, Shin Won-sik, South Koreas defence minister, said last week.

They have been stuffed full of 152-millimetre artillery shells, 122mm rockets, anti-tank missiles and portable surface-to-air missiles.

Putin has said the two countries relationship will be ramped up to a new level in a new partnership signed on Wednesday during his state visit to North Korea.

Their trade in missiles has been less well publicised.

But declassified US intelligence has directly linked fragments of rockets found in Ukraine to images of Kim touring a missile factory.

Open source investigations by arms control experts have revealed those missiles to be two variations of the Hwasong-11  the A and B models.

The solid-fuel ballistic missiles are said to be able to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads of up to 500kg for almost 300 miles at speeds of Mach 4.0.

They can be launched from transporter erector launchers (TEL) mounted on either trucks or trains.

The munitions are often compared to the Russian Iskander ballistic missiles, both visually and technically.

US intelligence revealed that the first Russian cargo planes started collecting missiles and missile-related cargo from North Korea in November last year before taking them to a firing range in western Russia for testing.

It is probable that Moscow has a small number of TELs, which can carry two missiles, and the necessary support vehicles, according to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies think tank.

The North Korean missiles launched by Russian forces have been very low quality with an accuracy rate of around 20 per cent, Yuriy Belousov, one of Ukraines top war crimes investigators, said in March.

Those launches resulted in the deaths of 24 people and injured over 100 more, he added.

The North Korean missiles are cobbled together using hundreds of commercial, non-military grade electronic components sourced from companies in the US and Europe.

Evidence suggests that the weapons used by Russia were produced as late as 2023, most likely in a rush so they could be shipped quickly for immediate use.

Given that the Hwasong is based on the Russian Iskander, Moscow would be able to swap munitions for knowledge.

This is also relevant in the wider field after a North Korean rocket carrying a spy satellite exploded mid-flight.

The failure of North Koreas recent attempted spy satellite launch shows that the country still needs technical assistance in this field  which Russia is well placed to offer, Justin Crump, an analyst.

Sanction-ravaged Pyongyang has also struggled to feed its people in recent decades.

It has been forced to approach its allies to fix the food shortages because it has never been able to produce enough for its 26 million population.

Russia needed ammunition because it drained out a lot of what they could get out of the ammunition dumps in Belarus. Iran was willing to supply drones but was hesitating on the supply of missiles, Dr Ramani said.

Thats what the Russians wanted from North Korea and the North Koreans were happy to oblige because theyve wanted to find an alternative, reliable partner to China economically and to supply them with food, with energy. And Russia is much more willing than China to overtly undermine the UN sanctions regime.

Mr Crump added: Such basic staples as food and other commodities offer Russia bargaining power in its quest for arms.
The Queen raised the issue with minister Michael Heseltine about the prices - Tim Graham

The late Queen was so concerned at the spiralling costs and size of a nine-foot statue commemorating the murdered Lord Mountbatten that she intervened with ministers - saving the taxpayer some 250,000.

Officials pulled the plug on an elaborate design that would have featured the former Admiral of the Fleet at the centre of four fountains on the points of a compass rose, after she baulked at the massive upkeep costs, newly released National Archives papers show.

The bronze statue was funded by around 100,000 of public donations in a campaign driven by Margaret Thatcher, who personally chose the final location outside the Foreign Office.

Six sculptors competed for the commission, with judges choosing a design by Franta Belsky that placed a nine-foot-tall statue on top of a nine-foot-tall plinth.

Commuted sum

At the time, the installation costs alone were set to reach 65,000 and Belsky was to be paid 35,000, but a commuted sum of around 250,000 was also needed to maintain the fountains for an indefinite period and would have landed on the taxpayer.

Peter Rumble, a senior official at the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, wrote in a memo that the Queen raised the issue with his minister, Michael Heseltine.

Officially, comments made by advisers from the Royal Fine Art Commission were used to justify revisions to the winning design.

But Rumble wrote in newly released notes: It was calculated that a commuted payment of 250,000 would have been required for future maintenance.

The Queen unveiled the revised design of the sculpture in November 1983 - Jimmy Sime

That calculation fell by the way following the comments of the Royal Fine Art Commission.

However, I believe that Her Majesty may have heard of the magnitude of the commuted payment for future maintenance and may have raised it with Mr Heseltine.

The outcome is that the rumoured requirement for a commuted sum of 250,000 which concerned the Queen is reduced to 5,000.

The revised design, unveiled by The Queen in November 1983, was a more austere diamond shape with steps leading to the plinth.

Mentor to King Charles

Subsequent maintenance costs included cleaning four times a year, washing and coating with lanolin, as well as any necessary repairs, costing only around 550 a year.

Mountbatten was killed when members of the IRA planted a bomb aboard his fishing boat in County Sligo, Ireland.

A highly decorated WWII naval commander, Mountbatten, known as Dickie, was also uncle to Prince Philip and mentor to the then Prince Charles.

He served as viceroy and governor-general of India before the country was partitioned and gained independence from Britain.

He later became First Sea Lord in Sir Anthony Edens cabinet and served as chief of the defence staff between 1959 and 1965.
Light fantastic  Face to Face, from 2013, by McCall, whose work is showing at Tate Modern. Photograph: Stefania Beretta/Courtesy of the artist, Spruth Magers, and Sean Kelly, New York/Los Angeles. Photo by Jason Wyche, New York

At the beginning of 1973, Anthony McCall, sculptor of light, was 26 and had made waves with his first piece, Landscape for Fire. This was a film of a performance in which white-clad spectres light fires across a huge landscape, experimenting with McCalls belief that a performance isnt a performance unless its documented in some way. If it takes place in the middle of nowhere, he says, you need to record it.

Half a century later, I meet him at Tate Modern in London, which is about to launch a major exhibition of his immersive, 3D moving shapes. McCall is softly spoken, even tentative; there is nothing excitable in his manner. Yet there is something almost supernatural in the way he manages to conjure the exhilaration, radicalism and explosive creativity of that bygone era.

His work needed smoke and dust, but the gallery was too clean. So he smoked three cigarettes  and got thrown out

McCall studied graphic design and photography at Ravensbourne College, on the outskirts of London, but became steeped in other ways of using cinema. It was called experimental film, it was called expanded cinema, structural film, new American cinema. This all fed into Line Describing a Cone, his first solid light work, where the rays projected on to a screen seem to create a tangible object in the darkness.

At that time, he was in love with the performance artist Carolee Schneemann: She had her own form of happenings called kinetic theatre, already up and running. Theyd met in London, but she wanted to return to the US, so they moved to New York together. There were so many things McCall admired about the American art scene  the performance artists, loosely collected under the umbrella fluxus; the experimental film-making of Andy Warhol; Yoko Onos drop of water, which you were invited to watch until it evaporated. There was an intensity about the world in New York at that time which was unmistakable.

It must have seemed like a golden time. It does to a lot of people who werent there, he says, laughing. But I can confirm that it was. All everyone seemed to want to do was talk about art  in a completely unpretentious, daily kind of way. There was a frantic exchange of passion, skills, ideas: I didnt know how to make animation. I found a friend of a friend, we went to a bar, and an hour later, I had a plan. I felt those acts of openness and generosity were unique to New York.

He and Schneemann were like the Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo of the city. Any artist blowing in there would gather around them. But they would have been Carolees friends, really, he says. It was an intensely productive time for McCall: he arrived with Line Describing a Cone and made three short clean films exploring different aspects of the idea. Then I made Long Film for Four Projectors.

This was a five-and-a half-hour piece conjuring up four walls of intersecting light, which visitors experienced from within. Not that the audience had to be there for five and a half hours! The whole point was that people would come and go in their own time. There could be a couple of dozen people in there, not only looking at the film, but looking at each other looking at the film. That seemed quite intriguing.

The series culminated in Long Film for Ambient Light, with no film and no equipment, all highly conceptual, and this time lasting 24 hours. It was a good way to paint yourself into a corner, says McCall. The windows were covered with white paper, limiting them to being light sources during the day and reflective surface during the night. Finally, there was a two-page statement on the wall, Notes on Duration.

After turning 30, he began to realise he needed to make a living. The kind of work that I made, he says, galleries didnt really show. While he may not have been making a living, McCall had a significant international reputation, and was invited to show Line Describing a Cone at the Konsthall Lund, a leading Swedish gallery.

He got a shock when he arrived. I discovered, to my horror, that it was completely invisible. All I had was a line going round on the screen. The appearance of solidity, which was the whole point, was absent. It was meant to be a volumetric object! In a blinding flash of brilliance, I realised why: all along, Id been working with a medium I hadnt understood  which was dust. The films were made and shown in old lofts in New York, buildings that had previously been used for light engineering or millinery or sweatshops. If you get 10 people in there, theres enough dust in the air to catch the light. Plus, probably a quarter of the people would be smoking continuously. The combination of the dust and smoke created a medium which made this series possible, but which Id been unaware of.

He ran to a tobacconist and came back smoking three cigarettes at once. But he was no match for Scandinavian hygiene and was thrown out by a guard. He tried everything to create some particulates in the air, from dry ice to frankincense, but nothing worked. This cast him into a wilderness hed inhabit for the next 20 years.

From the late 70s to the 90s, McCall went back to what hed trained in, graphic design, and began running a studio. It was quite successful: they designed metal sculptor Richard Serras books. I only felt thwarted, he says, when occasionally some art historian would be at the door wanting to talk about the solid light work. After finishing those interviews, I would feel as though I had betrayed everything and was wasting my time. It got so bad that he couldnt bear to lay out another book. Some time in the 90s, he recalls, I had the desire to make works again.

He went back to the short cone films. One of them was called Cone of Variable Volume. It was very simple, just an exploratory film in which I tested the idea of a circle that would change its volume, by expansion and contraction. It was at four different speeds, from frenetic to so slow you could barely see it moving. To my surprise, I realised that it was doing something I had never noticed before. It was quite obviously breathing.

He could never have seen that when he first made the work. We were much too purist. To discover that, all along, these works had been describing bodily functions came as a thunderbolt. He thought hed been dealing in concepts, but hed created the appearance of an organism. I made a lot of films after that, all following this idea of the corporeal, with titles like Between You and I, Meeting You Halfway, Skirt, You and I Horizontal.

These are mainly conical light sculptures, often leaning towards each other in eerie suggestions of human connectedness. As for what they meant, he says: Ive never believed the artist should be the person to ask that. Works of art dont come with a tag that says meaning. Thats the work of the audience. Its never quite that simple, though. These new ideas dont flow evenly, he says. You dont turn on a tap and get a few ounces of new ideas.

Since his 2004 show at the Pompidou in Paris, McCall has been creating epic light sculptures, culminating in four major shows this year. As well as the Tate, there is Guggenheim Bilbao, Spruth Magers in London, and the Museum of Art, Architecture and Design in Lisbon in autumn.

Its certainly been welcome, he says, but its a big surprise. Youre not thinking, as you whistle at your bench, Im pioneering. Youre just making something. You have no idea if itll be any good.

 Anthony McCall: Solid Light is at Tate Modern, London, from 27 June to 27 April
Those sceptical of Peter Duttons nuclear plan for Australia, which the Coalition leader announced on Wednesday, demanded details about how much the seven reactors would cost. Photograph: Bianca de Marchi/AAP

The Coalitions promise to build seven nuclear power plants starting as soon as 2035 has been met with widespread skepticism by Australias energy sector and industry groups, who have warned about the risks of cost blowouts and destroying private sector investment.

AGL Energy and Origin Energy, two of Australias largest power producers, also reiterated their concerns about the proposed government intervention.

The opposition leader, Peter Dutton, announced key details of the nuclear policy on Wednesday, including the location of seven proposed nuclear power plants to be owned by the commonwealth government, a similar model to NBN Co and Snowy Hydro.

Frank Calabria, Origins chief executive, said time, cost and compatibility would all be challenges of introducing nuclear, particularly if small modular reactors are the starting point. I dont think we can see it being scalable for many years, probably well into the next decade, Calabria told an energy conference on Wednesday.

AGL, which owns two of the proposed seven sites, re-issued comments from March by its chief executive, Damien Nicks, that nuclear energy was not a part of its plans.

Related: Peter Dutton names seven potential nuclear power station sites but avoids questions on cost

There is no viable schedule for the regulation or development of nuclear energy in Australia and the cost, build time and public opinion are all prohibitive, Nicks said.

Policy certainty is important for companies like AGL and ongoing debate on the matter runs the risk of unnecessarily complicating the long-term investment decisions necessary for the energy transition.

Industry groups offered mixed views, with the mining sector in favour but others demanding details about how much the opposition thought the seven reactors would cost and what interim measures  and costs  might be needed in the meantime since most of the coal-fired power plants are scheduled to close over the next decade.

Getting the states  and the Senate  to overturn bans on nuclear energy added to the uncertainty.

The Coalitions vision needs over time to be fleshed out with more detail such as around cost, viability and timelines, especially given the long delays and cost blowouts in delivering nuclear in other western economies, said Innes Willox, chief executive of national employer association Ai Group.

With no delivery projected until the middle of the next decade, the proposal does not immediately help with short-term emissions reduction or the cost and reliability of energy in the short term, Willox said.

The proposition too that the federal government own and operate the bulk of electricity generation in Australia raises some red flags, he said. If it effectively re-nationalises electricity in Australia, there is a risk that private sector investment gets killed off.

However, Tania Constable, chief executive of the Minerals Council, supported the plans, saying nuclear energy offered industry a crucial pathway  to reduce emissions cost-effectively while maintaining access to reliable baseload power.

Australias strong global reputation for non-proliferation and its world-class uranium industry, which includes almost a third of global uranium reserves and supplies around 10% of global uranium used for zero-emissions electricity, positions it well to lead in nuclear energy development, Constable said.

Kane Thornton, chief executive of the Clean Energy Council, said building new reactors would take at least 20 years and cost six times more than renewables.

The policy would result in much higher power prices and risk the lights going out as coal power stations continue to close, Thornton said, predicting that no community would want a reactor and to share their roads with truckloads of nuclear waste.

Marilyne Crestias, interim chief executive of the Clean Energy Investors Group, said directing resources towards nuclear energy development did not align with the urgency of transitioning to cleaner energy sources in a timely and cost-efficient manner.

Given the immense complexities and expenses involved, venturing into nuclear energy projects in Australia now would fall short of our imperative to decarbonise our economy in a timely and cost-efficient manner, she said.

The Australian Energy Council, representing the big generators, said major hurdles would need to be overcome at both state and federal level, most likely requiring bipartisan support.

Council members were progressing with investment plans for technologies like battery storage, pumped hydro, renewables and gas-powered generation to replace coal plants that are coming to the end of their technical lives, said the council interim CEO, Ben Barnes. Policy stability remains essential for investment decisions.

Bran Black, the Business Council of Australias CEO, welcomed the Coalitions intention to lift the nuclear energy ban, saying all forms of energy should be considered.

However, questions still remain how quickly nuclear could realistically be built and what impact it would have on the rollout of renewables and the associated investment decisions that will be required by private capital, Black said.

Tim Buckley, director of thinktank Climate Energy Finance, said Australians would be paying a multi-billion dollar nukebuilder tax for generations to come by being forced to front the cash for a national buildout of government-owned nuclear reactors.

Electricity prices would skyrocket as private investment in new replacement capacity is crowded out, resulting in undersupply for the next 15-25 years while we wait for the LNPs nuclear white elephants to arrive, Buckley said.

The international experience shows that the western nuclear industry is plagued with massive delays and cost blowouts, Buckley said, noting the Vogtle nuclear power plant expansion in the US blew out to cost $35bn, while Britains Hinkley Point C plant has been delayed to 2031 and is on track to cost 33bn pounds ($63bn).

There is zero reason to expect Australia would be any different when the risks for us are higher, as we have no history of deployment of nuclear energy generation here, he said.
Mr Holland, pictured with Reform UK chairman Richard Tice, and is standing for the party

A Reform UK candidate suggested tinned food could cause gender dysphoria.

Dave Holland, who is standing for Nigel Farages party in Mid-Bedfordshire, wrote on his official website that the increase in gender dysphoria could have a range of causes including canned food, the pill and car fumes.

On his website, he wrote How can we say with certainty that tinned food, car emissions, radio waves, food additives, mercury fillings or any other manmade influence isnt causing an increase in gender dysphoria?

Looking in basic biological evolutionary terms, as a rule of thumb, a species normally evolves to reproduce more rather than less. Which in my overly simplified mind would indicate that gender dysphoria is a man-made condition, not an evolutionary one.

Mr Holland is standing in Mid-Bedfordshire

Mr Hollands website also claims that the Government is controlled by the World Economic Forum, a conspiracy theory which first took hold during the pandemic and is now widespread.

Our government is itself being governed by recalcitrant civil servants, bankers (the markets), globalists, non-elected organisations such as the WEF and WHO, the Media, the EU, big business, lobbyists [sic], the list goes on, it reads.

Mr Holland has previously also described Liz Truss, the former prime minister as a WEF puppet.

The conspiracy holds that world governments and billionaires are organising through the WEF in a bid to achieve world domination and total control of the global economy.

It echoes anti-Semitic rhetoric, which says a malevolent cabal of Jews is in control of the worlds banks, media and governments.

The international Jewish conspiracy continues to circulate to this day, with George Soros and the Rothschilds targeted, in particular.

Mr Farage has blamed a vetting firm run by Colin Bloom, a former Tory adviser, for stitching up Reform.

The party paid 144,000 to weed out inappropriate candidates with extremist views  only for the work not to not be completed.

Vetting blamed the timing of the election for its inability to complete the checks and insisted Mr Bloom was politically neutral.

The Reform UK candidate claims that the Government is controlled by the World Economic Forum

In a statement, Mr Holland told The Telegraph: It seems somewhat unlikely that everything that we do and have done as humans has no direct or indirect consequences.

He added: It may well be the case that we have always had the same proportion of people with gender dysphoria and it has only been in recent years that they have felt able to express their true selves. That seems unlikely though.

As I said, my article asked questions and I dont believe there is anything in there that is critical of the transgender community, that certainly wasnt my intent.

Asked about his comments on Liz Truss and the WEF, he said Bankers had a hissy fit over the Liz Truss budget and that Reform wants to leave the WHO, not to be connected to the WEF and to reduce the influence of lobbyists.

Mr Farage said on X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday that Reform will reject the influence of the World Economic Forum.

Mr Holland is the latest Reform candidate to be shown to have made questionable remarks in the past.

Angela Carter-Begbie, the candidate in Queens Park and Maida Wale, called King Charles weak and claimed he was under the control of the WEF. She said she was entitled to free speech.

Jack Aaron, standing in Welwyn Hatfield, denied that he had endorsed Adolf Hitlers actions when he described the German ruler as brilliant at using personality traits to inspire people to action.

Grant StClair-Armstrong, the former Reform candidate for North West Essex, resigned his candidacy on Sunday after it emerged that he had urged people to vote for the BNP in 2010.

Ian Gribbin, the candidate in Bexhill and Battle, apologised last week for saying that Britain should have been neutral in the Second World War.

Reform UK was approached for comment.
Vladimir Putin and the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, exchange signed documents during a ceremony in Pyongyang on 19 June. Photograph: Kristina Kormilitsyna/Sputnik/Kremlin pool/EPA

The Russian president, Vladimir Putin, and the North Korean leader, Kim Jong-un, have signed a pact that includes a clause requiring the countries to come to each others aid if either is attacked, a move that has raised western concerns about potential Russian aid for Pyongyangs missile or nuclear programmes.

The inclusion of a mutual defence clause in their comprehensive strategic partnership, which Kim described as an alliance, will add to the wests alarm over growing economic and military ties between North Korea and Russia. The deal was finalised on Wednesday after hours of talks in the North Korean capital, Pyongyang.

Related: Putin and Kim are the odd couple with a dual mission  cementing a new world order | Simon Tisdall

The pact has also magnified western concerns about potential Russian aid for North Koreas missile or nuclear programmes.

NBC News on Wednesday reported that US intelligence officials believe Putin is providing North Korea with nuclear submarine and ballistic missile technology in exchange for arms for his war in Ukraine. Citing six senior US officials, the US news network said the Biden administration was concerned Russia might help North Korea complete the final steps needed to field its first submarine capable of launching a nuclear-armed missile.

It was not immediately clear whether Russian support for ballistic missiles would indicate intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the mainland United States, or the short-range ballistic missiles that North Korea has reportedly supplied Russia with during the war and also could use in the event of a large-scale conflict with South Korea.

The Nato secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg, said before the summit: We are of course also concerned about the potential support that Russia provides to North Korea when it comes to supporting their missile and nuclear programmes.

The top US arms control official, undersecretary of state Bonnie Jenkins, has said she believes North Korea is keen to acquire fighter aircraft, surface-to-air missiles, armoured vehicles, ballistic missile production equipment or materials, and other advanced technologies from Russia, Reuters reported.

Experts said direct aid for the North Korean regimes weapons programmes would mark a significant shift in Russian policy since the end of the cold war, driven in part by its battlefield needs in Ukraine.

James Acton, co-director of the nuclear policy programme at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said: The big picture here is how much Russia is re-evaluating its interests about a nuclear-armed North Korea.

Russia may view a nuclear-armed North Korea as a fait accompli, he said, and have moved from a policy of grudgingly opposing proliferation alongside the United States to accepting and protecting the regime in return for much needed material aid in its war in Ukraine.

Acton said Russia might still not be ready to provide direct support for North Koreas nuclear programme, and was more likely to aid North Koreas missile or submarine programmes.

Alexander Gabuev, the director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said: Whats significant really is the help for the space programme and the missiles programme if that happens, and that has the direct connection to the nuclear problem. Its not about the device itself, but about the delivery means. Thats where North Korea will require a lot of expertise and help.

Neither Russia nor North Korea published the text of the security agreement. It was not immediately clear what form that support might take, and few details of the agreement were made public.

The comprehensive partnership agreement signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this agreement, Putin was quoted as saying by the Russian state news agency, Tass, as he made his first visit to North Korea in 24 years. It is Putins second summit with Kim in nine months.

Putin later described the pact as defensive, citing North Koreas right to defend itself, Tass reported. He added that Russia would not rule out increasing military-technical cooperation with North Korea.

Kim, speaking after the signing ceremony, called the deal the strongest ever treaty signed between the two countries, elevating their relationship to the higher level of an alliance. The pact would lead to closer political, economic and military cooperation, he said, hailing the agreement as accelerating the creation of a new multipolar world.

Putins visit has been closely watched by the US and South Korea amid concern that growing military cooperation between the isolated, sanctions-hit states could boost the Kremlins war effort in Ukraine and add to tensions on the Korean peninsula.

In Washington, the US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, said Putins visit highlighted Russias attempts, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

Blinken added: North Korea is providing significant munitions to Russia  and other weapons for use in Ukraine. Iran has been providing weaponry, including drones, that have been used against civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Last September, during a summit with Putin in Vladivostok, Kim is believed to have agreed to supply missiles and other weaponry for use by Russian forces in Ukraine. In return, Russia would provide food and energy aid and help with North Koreas space programme.

Kim met Putin at Pyongyangs international airport in the early hours of Wednesday before they were driven through the capitals brightly lit streets past buildings decorated with Russian flags and portraits of the Russian leader.

Hours later, they attended a welcoming ceremony in Kim Il-sung Square, where they saluted a guard of honour and walked across a red carpet to meet important members of Kims inner circle, including the foreign minister, Choe Son-hui, and Kims influential sister, Kim Yo-jong.

Tens of thousands of spectators had packed into the square, including children holding balloons and people wearing coordinated T-shirts in the red, white and blue of the Russian and North Korean flags.

Speaking at the start of the talks, Putin thanked Kim for North Koreas support for his war in Ukraine, calling it part of a wider fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

The two leaders exchanged gifts: a luxury Russian-made Aurus limousine and tea set for Kim, and items for Putin that Kremlin aides said were related to his image, including busts.

Putin later drove Kim through Pyongyang in the Aurus limousine.

Gabuev said: The Russians are looking at every relationship now, since the war is an organising principle of its foreign policy  what can this relationship bring to my battlefield situation in terms of hardware and direct support, what can this relationship bring to my economy thats in survival mode, and then how can I instrumentalise this relationship to punish the west?

North Korea really checks boxes one and three, and the defence pact is all about that.
Andy Brown had been selected to fight Aberdeenshire North and Moray East for Scottish Labour

A Scottish Labour candidate has been dropped after he was accused of having written unacceptable pro-Russian posts on social media.

Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, said his party had taken swift action to suspend Andy Brown, who had been the partys candidate in the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East constituency.

It followed reports that Mr Brown shared content which played down the countrys role in the Salisbury poisonings.

Reports suggest he shared an article from Russian state media outlet RT which claimed the toxin used in the poisonings was never produced in Russia, but was in service in the US, UK and other Nato states.

The candidate has told the BBC he did not make the social media posts.

Dawn Sturgess, 44, died after being exposed to the nerve agent Novichok, which had been left in a discarded perfume bottle in Amesbury, Wiltshire, in July 2018.

It followed the attempted murders of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia, and former police officer Nick Bailey, who were poisoned in nearby Salisbury in March that year.

All three survived, as did Ms Sturgesss boyfriend, Charlie Rowley.

Speaking to the PA news agency during a General Election campaign visit, Mr Sarwar said: Weve taken swift action.

New information came to light to us last night and within hours this candidate was suspended pending an investigation.

I think thats the right thing for us to do.
Laura Saunders is standing for the Conservatives in Bristol North West

A second Tory candidate is being investigated over an alleged bet on the date of the general election.

Laura Saunders, who is standing in Bristol North West, was reported by the BBC to be the subject of an inquiry by the Gambling Commission.

A Conservative spokesman said: We have been contacted by the Gambling Commission about a small number of individuals.

As the Gambling Commission is an independent body, it wouldnt be proper to comment further, until any process is concluded.

The revelation follows the news that a police officer working in Rishi Sunaks close protection team has been arrested as part of an investigation into bets placed on the date of the general election.

The Metropolitan Police was contacted by the Gambling Commission last Friday and informed that the commission was looking into the activities of a member of Scotland Yards Royalty and Specialist Protection (RaSP) command.

The police constable, who has not been named, was immediately removed from operational duties.

The development comes after Craig Williams, a senior aide to the Prime Minister, reportedly bet 100 on the date of the election just before it was called.

Mr Williams, who is standing for re-election as MP in Montgomeryshire, bet on the election being held in July three days before the announcement was made, according to The Guardian. Mr Sunaks decision to hold a summer rather than autumn election surprised the nation.

The reporting has not been disputed by Mr Williams, who admitted that he had a flutter on the election a few weeks ago. He has since apologised for a huge error of judgment.

Mrs Saunders previously worked at Conservative Party headquarters in central London.

The date and value of her alleged bet have not been disclosed.

Mrs Saunders has not commented.
Woo May Hoe convinced about 30 people that she was a deity

A cult leader who forced her followers to eat faeces and used pliers to pull out their teeth as punishment has been jailed for more than 10 years in Singapore.

Woo May Hoe, 54, convinced about 30 people that she was a deity, while subjecting the group to cruel physical abuse and defrauding them of more than $10 million (7.8 million).

In a rare case of cult crime in Singapore, prosecutors said she had instituted a reign of terror over eight years, convincing her followers to part with their money, which she claimed would be used to build temples in India.

Anyone who disobeyed Woo was brutally punished. In one instance, a woman was forced to jump from the second floor of a building and fractured both her ankles. In another, Woo made one follower extract anothers teeth with pliers.

The court also heard that Woo stabbed people with scissors, forced them to consume human faeces, and beat them with canes and paintbrushes. One woman suffered permanent optic nerve damage after being struck and denied medical care; Woo had insisted she just needed to use holy water to clean her eyes.

The abuse began in 2012. During long sessions, Woo convinced a group who believed in Sri Sakthi Narayani Amma  a spiritual leader in India  that she was a deity in communication with the gods.

Bad karma

She forced them to call her lord, and told her followers that they had to clear their bad karma by making regular payments to Amma in India.

Many of the group were seeking healing for themselves or their relatives, so fervently followed the teachings, the court was told.

Woo, who insisted to her followers that they would be punished by gods if they lied to her about how much money they had, claimed the funds were going to be used to buy cows or build schools and temples.

She also made followers take out loans and buy her houses, apartments and cars as a form of worship. According to AFP, she defrauded the group of more than $10 million.

And she was not only in control of their finances. Channel News Asia reported that she sought to control every aspect of their lives, forcing them to report their movements and conversations. Some were forced to quit their jobs, about a third were told to move in with her to effectively act as her full-time servants.

If they tried to escape the group, Woo would harass them with a barrage of calls threatening their downfall.

Police reports

But the abuse was uncovered when a few followers lodged police reports against her in 2020, and she was arrested in October that year.

On Wednesday, she was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison after pleading guilty to five charges, including cheating and grievous hurt, while 45 others were taken into consideration.

The accuseds actions have shattered the lives of her followers, leaving them in dire financial circumstances and causing permanent physical disability to some, prosecutors said in their sentencing submission.

Health officials later found that Woo had paranoid schizophrenia at the time of her offences, according to Channel News Asia, but the court was told that she was aware of the illegal nature of her acts.
A thesis is not longer required to graduate from Stanford, so Hislop was eligible for her diploma. Photograph: David Butow/Corbis/Getty Images

Virginia Hislop took 83 years to get her masters degree from Stanford University. Now, at 105 years old, shes finally graduated.

My goodness, Ive waited a long time for this, she said, walking across the stage on Sunday to receive her diploma. She was cheered on by her family, grandchildren and the 2024 graduating class.

Daniel Schwartz, the dean of Stanfords Graduate School of Education, recalled worrying he would tear up as he introduced Hislop to the stage.

Before I even got to the teary part, the crowd erupted and broke out into a standing ovation, he said. Virginia got her education at a young age, she just didnt get her degree. Its a great opportunity to come back and celebrate a life of comeback and education.

Hislop had to leave Stanford early in 1941 when her fiance, George, was called to serve in the second world war. Unable to complete her thesis, she put her degree on hold and her university days behind her, later moving to Washington to raise their family.

When her son-in-law contacted the university recently, though, he discovered that the final thesis was no longer required to obtain the degree. Hislop was eligible to graduate decades later.

Ive been doing this work for years, and its nice to be recognized, she told the universitys news site.

Hislops educational journey at Stanford began in 1936 when she enrolled to study for her bachelors degree in education. A few years later, she completed this milestone and immediately transitioned to her postgraduate studies, driven by her ambition to teach after university.

In 1941, Hislop, like many other women across the US, was forced to trade her career for marriage in support of the broader war mobilization. Focusing on the family was seen as the pinnacle of American sacrifice in that period, and she left Stanford to marry George before his deployment, honeymooning in Oklahoma near his army post at Fort Sill.

After the war ended, the couple moved to Yakima, Washington, where they raised their two children.

I didnt return to teaching, but I feel I put my teaching certificate to good use serving in committees and on boards and trying to improve the educational opportunities every chance I got, Hislop told the Yakima Herald-Republic in an exclusive interview back in 2018.

Indeed, Hislops formal education might have ended in 1941 with her early departure from Stanford, but her work in the following years was instrumental and transformative.

She opposed the regressive middle school curricula that required her daughter to take home economics over English and lobbied for independent community college districts in Washington State.

Later, she raised funds for Heritage University, a female-founded and -led institution, and also helped collect $6m for students hoping to attend the school.

A scholarship at Pacific Northwest University bears her name.

Schwartz, the Stanford dean, described her as a fierce advocate for equity and the opportunity to learn when handing her the deserved red diploma all those years later.

For a lot of people the degree is a badge of accomplishment, and it was great to be able to celebrate someone who cared so much about learning, and dedicated her lifetime to other peoples learning, he said.

Even though we gave her the degree, she really gave us something that day.
Viktor Orban, the prime minister of Hungary, reveals its provocative motto for its upcoming EU presidency for six months - LEONHARD FOEGER/REUTERS

Viktor Orban has been criticised for choosing Make Europe Great Again as the slogan for the Hungarian presidency of the EU.

Pro-EU politicians have spoken out against the nationalist prime minister who had channelled Donald Trumps motto for Budapests six-month term of chairing intergovernmental talks, which begins on July 1.

Daniel Freund, a green member of the European Parliament and staunch critic of Mr Orban, was not impressed.

Call me old-fashioned but referencing the slogan of a former US president who supported the lynching of politicians and the overthrow of a democratic system is not really what I want to see from a Presidency of the Council of the EU, he said.

To truly make Europe great again, you need to reform it in exactly the opposite way of Orban, said Guy Verhofstadt, the former Belgian prime minister.

Mr Verhofstadt, who is also the European Parliaments former Brexit pointman and an arch-federalist, said the bloc needed to do away with national vetoes on EU foreign policy like sanctions.

Mr Orban, an ally of Mr Trump, has repeatedly blocked aid to Ukraine and delayed sanctions on Russia until concessions can be extracted from the bloc.

The European Commission has frozen billions of euros in funding to Hungary over accusations that Mr Orban has eroded democratic standards.

The European Parliament has called on Brussels to do more to bring Mr Orban to heel.

Ursula von der Leyen (L), the president of the European Commission is greeted by Viktor Orban during a round table meeting at an EU summit in Brussels - GEERT VANDEN WIJNGAERT/AP

Janos Boka, the EU affairs minister of Hungary, unveiled the provocative slogan at a press conference in Brussels.

Im not sure if President Trump ever wanted to make Europe great again, he said when asked about the choice of motto.

This is a reference to an active presidency, he claimed.

Mr Orban has repeatedly backed Mr Trump to win the US presidential elections in November and claimed he will end the war in Ukraine.

We cant get involved in another countrys elections, but we would really like President Donald Trump to return to the presidency and make peace here in the eastern half of Europe, he said in February.

Make Europe great again! he added. MAGA there, MEGA here.

Hungary has said it will focus on defence, energy cooperation, migration and the enlargement of the EU to countries in the Western Balkans during its presidency.

There are fears in Brussels that Budapest will try to use the presidency for its own ends, rather than act as an honest broker to find consensus, as it is meant to do.

The incoming presidency, which will see Hungarian diplomats chair important meetings, also unveiled the Rubiks cube as its logo.

The puzzle was invented by a Hungarian and was described as the essence of Hungarian genius by Budapests Europe minister.
Taylor Swift took her Eras tour to the Principality Stadium in Wales - SHIRLAINE FORREST/TAS24/GETTY IMAGES

Taylor Swift delighted fans by speaking Welsh during her Eras tour show in Cardiff.

The US popstar kicked off her first performance at the Principality Stadium in Wales with a number of hit songs including Cruel Summer, before turning her hand to the Welsh language.

Shwmae, Swift told the crowd in videos circulating on social media, which means hello in English.

Croeso i daith Eras, she added, which means: Welcome to the Eras tour.

During a rendition of her 2012 hit We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Swift passed the microphone to a dancer to perform a regional version of the lyric, saying Ych-a-fi  a Welsh term to describe how disgusting something is.

Fans also speculated whether Swifts outfit for the 1989 era of the show  a red glittery skirt and green crop top  was a reference to the colours of the Welsh national flag.

This is not the first time Swift has tried her hand at speaking native languages while on tour in the UK. Last year, she appeared to address Irish fans in Gaelic.

She said Cead mile failte to concert-goers in Dublin, which is Gaelic for a hundred thousand welcomes.

In a previous performance of We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together in Edinburgh, she held the microphone up for one of her dancers, who said nae chance, which means no chance in Scottish Gaelic.

Swift, 34, most recently played three back-to-back shows at Liverpools Anfield, marking the 100th performance of her Eras world tour, which is set to come to an end in December. The UK stint of the tour is estimated to be worth up to 1 billion to the UK economy.

Her last show will be on December 8 in Vancouver, according to her website.
Sir Bob Geldof

Sir Bob Geldof has endorsed a Cabinet minister for re-election in an expletive-laden video.

The Irish rock star and foreign aid activist said he wanted to big up Andrew Mitchell, the deputy foreign secretary, because he was a decent person.

But he admitted that he had no bloody idea where the senior Conservatives Sutton Coldfield constituency was.

The party that Andrew Mitchell is a member of is not important to me, Sir Bob said.

What is important is that hes a decent person or else he wouldnt be a friend of mine, I guess.

Sir Bob said he and his wife, Jeanne Marine, were friends with the former secretary of state for international development and his wife, Dr Sharon Bennett.

Mr Mitchell resigned from the international development role in 2012 after calling police officers f------ plebs for asking him to enter Downing Street through a side gate.

In the video, Sir Bob said the Tory MP was a laugh and feels a fine human sympathy for those he was trying to help, whether that was in Sutton Coldfield or elsewhere in the world.

Mitchell knows how to do stuff

What we so desperately need in our Parliament, whether again in opposition or in Government, is clever, committed, capable people, Sir Bob said. We have had enough of leery shysters, buffoons and tiresome w-----s.

We need people who can actually do things and then get it done. Mitchell knows how to do stuff and to get it done.

He added that it would be nice if Mr Mitchell would stop boring the a--- off me over dinner about the charms of Sutton Coldfield and its people.

I have no bloody idea where Sutton Coldfield is. It does tend to spoil the evening, Andrew. Give it a rest.

Mr Mitchell deputises for Lord Cameron in the House of Commons, where the Foreign Secretary cannot answer questions because he is a peer.

In April, he accused peers of being patronising and bordering on racism in their demands for an independent monitoring committee to establish if Rwanda was safe for asylum seekers.
Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, said it was 'inconceivable' that Washington was withholding weapons and ammunition at a time of war - Shaul Golan/AFP

The White House reportedly called off a high-level meeting with Israel on Iran after Benjamin Netanyahu publicly accused Washington of withholding arms deliveries.

This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts, a US official told news website Axios after the Israeli prime minister lashed out at his ally in a video, saying it was inconceivable that Washington was withholding weapons and ammunition at a time of war.

The White House expressed surprise at his statement, which came just a week after Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, had offered assurances on the arms supplies issue to the Israeli prime minister during a visit to Jerusalem.

We genuinely do not know what he is talking about, said Karine Jean-Pierre, White House press secretary.

The White House denied that the meeting had been cancelled and insisted it was finalising details.

As we said in the briefing yesterday, we have no idea what the prime minister is talking about, but thats not a reason for rescheduling a meeting, a White House official told The Times of Israel.

We have been working to find a time to schedule the next SDG that accounts for the travel and availability of principals, but have not yet fully finalised the details so nothing has been canceled.

Mr Blinken earlier said that one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs was still under review but everything else was moving as it normally would.

The Americans are fuming. Bibis video made a lot of damage, a senior Israeli official also told Axios, using a widely-used nickname for Mr Netanyahu.

Washingtons annoyance at his public criticisms was said to have been conveyed by Amos Hochstein, an envoy sent to the region this week by Joe Biden, the US president, to try to avert a major conflict on Israels northern border with Lebanon.

Thousands of rockets, anti-tank missiles and explosive drones have been fired into Israel by Lebanon-based Hezbollah since the October 7 attacks, prompting the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to retaliate with strikes against the terror groups commanders.

A recent escalation in the intensity and firepower of the cross-border hostilities has triggered fears of the conflict tipping into a regional war.

On Tuesday, Israel warned Hezbollah of the consequences of an all-out war after the group released a nine-minute video which it boasted was drone footage of Israeli military and civilian locations in several cities, including the key port city of Haifa.

We are very close to the moment of decision to change the rules of engagement with Hezbollah and Lebanon, said Israel Katz, the foreign minister.

In an all-out war, Hezbollah will be destroyed and Lebanon will be severely damaged, he warned.

Major General Ori Gordin, the head of the IDFs northern command, and Major General Oded Basiuk, head of the operations directorate, also revealed that they had approved Lebanon battle plans.

The generals held an assessment, during which operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved, the IDF said in a statement.

Israel has repeatedly said it will not tolerate a situation where tens of thousands of people have been forced to abandon their homes in the north under daily bombardment. Tens of thousands have also fled on the Lebanese side of the border.

Hezbollah has said it will attack the north as long as the war in Gaza continues. A ceasefire deal with Hamas could lead to a diplomatic solution along the Lebanese border. It could also free up more troops for military action there.

On Wednesday, a senior IDF commander operating in Rafah, southern Gaza, told Israels public broadcaster Kan that he believed the ground manoeuvre there would be concluded within a month.

On Sunday, Israels military said there would be a daily pause in its attacks along the road via the Kerem Shalom crossing to allow more humanitarian aid to enter.

However, the United Nations said it has since been unable to distribute aid in the Gaza Strip because of lawlessness and panic among hungry people in the area.

Aid groups also said that the $230 million temporary pier constructed by the US to facilitate aid deliveries has largely failed. It is expected to be dismantled earlier than expected.
A serene coastal stroll  the GR34 coastal path on the Crozon peninsula. Photograph: Joel Douillet/Alamy

They say walking is the best medicine and you could spend months walking off your troubles along the sentier des douaniers (customs officers path), which winds for more than 1,240 miles (2,000km) around the bays and headlands of the Breton coast. However, me and my perennial walking companion, an Irishman who lives in Bath, settled for a five-day, 55-mile stretch along the southern Crozon peninsula.

As we agreed not to fly, he took the train to Plymouth, the ferry to Roscoff and buses from there, while I took the train from Barcelona and, after a night in Paris, another train to Quimper and a bus to our starting point at Camaret-sur-Mer.

Much has been written about the physical and therapeutic benefits of walking but theres a big difference between going solo and walking with someone else. You have to be compatible physically, obviously, but just as important is understanding that, to benefit from the Zen of walking, you need periods of silence.

On our annual walks, the Irishman and I have reached an understanding of when to walk and talk and when to shut it.

Camaret is a pretty fishing village that these days lives as much off tourism and pleasure boating as fish. There are bars and the ubiquitous creperies along the waterfront, as well as an excellent restaurant in the Hotel de France.

On day one we had the option of a shorter (nine miles) or longer (13 miles) route. We opted for the shorter walk to Morgat, another fishing port but with swimming beaches where there are kayaks and paddleboards for hire.

A three-minute squall of horizontal rain gave us a good soaking, but it was worth it for the view when the sun came out

The first day takes you through woodland before you follow a narrow clifftop path across moorland brightened by yellow gorse, pink clover and the occasional purple orchid. The path is accessible for anyone of any age who is reasonably fit and has a decent pair of walking boots. Much of the landscape is scrub, steep cliffs and sandy coves, reminiscent of Cornwall with a touch of Donegal.

This part of Lower Brittany is where you are most likely to hear people speak Breton, a Celtic language closely related to Cornish and Welsh. It was once the language of the wealthy, then the poor and now mainly older people. It is classified as severely endangered by Unesco.

Some people may get a kick out of tramping with a heavy pack on their back but were past all that, so we organised our trip through Normandie Rando, a hiking and biking specialist who provide the itinerary, make hotel bookings and arrange luggage transfers. When we arrived at Morgat our bags had been delivered to the small hotel. In this part of the world the health departments vehicles double as taxis so our bags generally arrived by ambulance.

There are two decent fish restaurants in Morgat as well as a pizzeria. This coast is oyster and lobster country, not to mention moules-frites, while vegetarians should head to the nearest creperie. They are also fond of butter and there are numerous biscuiteries where they make shortbread-like biscuits and the renowned Breton cake.

Morgat served as base camp for the first three nights and the next two days walks took the form of loops. On day two we opted for the longer loop (13 miles) in order to reach the Cap de la Chevre at the tip of the peninsula. Much of the first part of the walk is along the GR34 through wooded country above the sea and the first few miles are probably the toughest of the five days, with quite steep climbs and descents until you get past the Pointe de St-Hernot and the Ile Vierge.

La Palue is not very accessible and there are no beach bars, which is part of its charm

Be prepared for all weathers as its changeable. A three-minute squall of horizontal rain at Cap de la Chevre was all it took to give us a good soaking, but it was worth it for the view when the sun came out. The path then continues along the clifftop as you approach La Palue, considered the best of Brittanys surfing beaches. High tide is the best time to catch good waves.

The beach is not very accessible and there are no beach bars nor a webcam, all of which is part of its charm, but youll need to bring your own boards and other supplies. Its not an ideal beach for swimming.

Related: Megaliths and hoopoes: chance encounters in untamed Brittany

Day three was a 10-mile loop of the same peninsula, but this time cutting across inland to the coast at Lostmarch where you once again pick up the GR34 along a delightful clifftop walk bright with wildflowers towards the Chateau de Dinan. The path then cuts back inland through the village of Dinan and back to Morgat. The following day you have the option of a 13-mile walk from Telgruc-sur-Mer or eight miles from Saint-Nic (Sant Vig in Breton). The taxi (ambulance) dropped us at Saint-Nic before taking our bags on to the hotel at Trefeuntec.

The late gothic church in the village, with its elegant narrow tower, is worth a visit before setting off in the direction of the sea. Depending on the tide, you can walk along or above the beach of La Lieue de Greve until you arrive at the beautiful headland of Pointe de Tal ar Grip after which another long beach, Sainte-Anne, leads you to Trefeuntec. All in all, an easy days walking.

The fifth and final day takes you on an eight-mile path along the cliffs to Douarnenez, the last stretch of which passes through the lovely nature reserve of Les Plomarch. Douarnenez is a sizeable town with plenty of bars and restaurants along the banks of the Pouldavid River. It was once a major sardine cannery, although its heyday is long past. In 1921 it became one of the first towns in France to elect a communist mayor.

And so from Douarnenez it was on to Quimper and our separate ways, north to Roscoff and east to Paris. Until next year.

The trip was supported by Normandie Rando, which offers self-guided hiking and cycling holidays, and costs 660pp, including six nights in hotels, breakfast and luggage transfers.
Ella Janneh (right) outside the Royal Courts in London on Wednesday after being awarded damages - Lucy North/PA

A woman who won a civil rape case against her sex therapist who claimed his penis could burn up trauma has been awarded a record 217,000 in damages.

Michael Lousada, who was a guest on ITVs This Morning, has been ordered to pay Ella Janneh compensation after a 2016 session suddenly involved penetrative sex which triggered a full-blown dissociative panic attack.

In his 82-page judgment published on Wednesday, Mr Justice Jeremy Baker concluded Mr Lousada, 57, used his penis [to] energetically absorb the trauma at a time when Ms Janneh, 37, entirely lacked capacity to agree to this taking place as her mouth was clamped shut, her hands clenched into fists and [she had] difficult with breathing.

Speaking outside the High Court in London, Ms Janneh, who has waived her right to anonymity, welcomed the ruling but said she felt betrayed by the police and Crown Prosecution Service for failing to pursue a prosecution.

Catriona Rubens, Ms Jannehs solicitor from Leigh Day, said the total award, which included 105,000 in damages and 100,000 for loss of earnings, was a record payout for a civil rape case involving a sex therapist. She called for new laws to regulate the sex therapy industry where there is no regulatory body.

Mr Lousada, who denied the allegations, outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London - Jonathan Brady/PA

The trial, held in April and May, heard that Ms Janneh had visited Mr Lousadas clinic in Belsize Park in 2011 and 2012 because she suffered panic attacks during sex, something she believed stemmed from childhood sex abuse.

Although no sexual activity took place at those sessions, she returned in August 2016 for a 750 bodywork session.

She claimed Mr Lousada, a former investment banker and father of two, sexually assaulted her shortly after he claimed his penis was like a laser beam which could burn up trauma.

Ms Janneh, who now lives in Melbourne, Australia, reported the incident to the Metropolitan Police, but the case was dropped in May 2018.

In his judgment, the judge said that after listening to Mr Lousadas evidence he was satisfied that the scale of his confidence in his own abilities was such that his perception of reality became clouded by his sense of self-worth.

While he accepted Mr Lousada, who denied the allegations, did invite Ms Janneh to say if she wanted the treatment to stop, nothing else was said to indicate even the possibility of her being penetrated.

Ms Janneh welcomed the ruling but says she feels betrayed by the police and Crown Prosecution Service for failing to pursue a prosecution - Leigh Day

On a balance of probabilities - a lower level of proof compared to a criminal trial - the judge said Mr Lousada instructed his client to regress to her childhood state of being an abused child before kissing and essentially fondling her body, causing her to become dissociated.

He said that by the time Ms Janneh was undergoing a full full-blown dissociative panic attack the therapist suggested using his penis energetically to absorb the trauma, the claimant entirely lacked capacity to agree to this taking place.

The judge wrote: I am also satisfied that the type of symptoms which the claimant was suffering at that time, including her mouth being clamped shut, her hands being clenched into fists and her difficulty with breathing, would have been obvious to the defendant, and that he chose to ignore them; this being motivated by the defendants confidence in his own ability to heal women through what were essentially sexual practices.

Mr Lousada, who denied the allegations, insisted Ms Janneh consented to the legitimate form of sex therapy and she had not disclosed that she had suffered earlier abuse.

His barristers said he accepted that penetration occurred but it was not to have intercourse, but to accommodate the claimants wish to work with penetration, adding that the session was about release of energy.

The court heard Mr Lousada had worked with about 1,000 clients and had had sex with 30 to 40 of them as part of their treatment.

After the ruling, Ms Janneh said her eight-year battle had achieved the beginnings of accountability after she achieved what police had failed to do.
Choppers lift off for training

China Military Online) 10:07, June 19, 2024

A group of attack helicopters attached to a brigade under the PLA 81st Group Army lift off successively from the training field during a fight training exercise on June 3, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Chen Kai)

A group of attack helicopters attached to a brigade under the PLA 81st Group Army lift off successively from the training field during a fight training exercise on June 3, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Chen Kai)

A group of attack helicopters attached to a brigade under the PLA 81st Group Army lift off successively from the training field during a fight training exercise on June 3, 2024. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Chen Kai)

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Members of the public from London to Shropshire have already cast their votes for the General Election by post.

The deadline to submit a postal vote application for people in England, Scotland and Wales is 5pm on Wednesday.

However, some people have sent off their postal vote already, including Jane Beesley, an artist who lives in Shrewsbury, Shropshire.

She received her postal vote on Saturday, filled it out and posted it back the same day.

Jane Beesley sent her vote off on Saturday and hopes more people are encouraged to apply for a postal vote (Jane Beesley/PA)

She opted to vote for Julia Buckley, the Labour candidate for Shrewsbury.

Ms Beesley, 66, has been a Labour Party member for roughly 20 years and said she cast her vote fairly quickly because Ms Buckley has a strong community presence.

I have met Julia Buckley a few times and (Labour) has done a lot of canvassing, she told the PA news agency.

Shes also attended a lot of community meetings that Ive been at and she has a very strong community presence, so it was a no-brainer.

I would also like to see more women in Parliament.

Ms Beesley said the most difficult part of the process was concentrating enough so that she could put the X in the right box.

She added Labours stance on issues including the NHS aligns with hers.

Jane Beesley casting her vote by post (Jane Beesley/PA)

She has voted by post for more than 20 years as she would often travel overseas in her previous job as an aid worker.

I hated the fact that I could sometimes miss voting, so with a postal vote you get a lovely long window, so there was a good chance I would be around to be able to vote, she added.

She hopes more people are encouraged to apply for a postal vote.

I think it would be good if more people knew about the postal vote and that they could apply for it, she said.

It would be good to get more people involved in voting to up the numbers.

Simon Darvill received his postal vote on June 14 and completed it and sent it off on Monday for Sunny Brar, the Labour Party candidate for Hornchurch and Upminster.

Simon Darvill said he has had a postal vote since roughly the age of 18 as his jobs have often required him to travel (Simon Darvill/PA)

Mr Darvill, 35, who is the director of communications at the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, a global charity, has supported the Labour Party since the age of 15 when he was given a Labour membership as a birthday present.

Although he is no longer an active member of the party, he has previously had roles in or connected to Labour, including being chair of Young Labour  the youth section of the Labour Party  from 2013 to 2016.

He said he wanted to vote for a party which shared his values.

Mr Darvill, who lives in Upminster, told the PA news agency: I live in a pretty safe Conservative seat, so Ive always been aware living here that my vote isnt particularly worth much because of the system we have, but it is really important to vote and the Labour Party match my values.

I wouldnt say Ive ever really thought about anything different.

He said he has had a postal vote since roughly the age of 18 as his jobs over the years have often required him to travel frequently, usually around polling day.

Simon Darvill casting his vote by post (Simon Darvill/PA)

Im actually off to Mexico on Friday and Im away until just after the election, he said.

Its really handy for me because I know the party Im going to vote for.

He said Sir Keir Starmer is fantastic and has changed the Labour Party in a positive way.

When Jeremy Corbyn won, it was quite vicious and angry and actually one of the reasons why I stepped away from an active role in the Labour Party was because I felt my life would be better without it because it was quite nasty, he added.

Thats not the case any more and the Labour Party is a more friendly and good place.

I feel like were all a bit fed up of the bravado and I think hes the right leader for the right time.
Piers Morgan is to interview Tesla boss Elon Musk on the broadcasters YouTube channel.

The former Daily Mirror editor, 59, told news website Semafor in February that he was due to interview Musk on January 7, but said the billionaire cancelled after Morgan publicly criticised his decision to let conspiracy theorist Alex Jones back on to his social media platform X.

In a social media post on Wednesday, Morgan shared a photo of the two on what looked to be a boat and revealed that a Piers Morgan Uncensored interview would be coming soon.

He said: Coming soon to Piers Morgan Uncensored  the worlds richest & most fascinating, innovative man.

Great to finally meet you Elon, loved our chat and looking forward to the interview!

Musk, 52, took over Twitter, now X, in 2022 and since then he has loosened content moderation on the site and allowed more controversial material on the platform, as part of his support of absolute free speech.

The announcement follows Morgans high-profile interview with Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey earlier in the month, who defended himself against allegations of sexual misconduct while they two were in conversation.

A Channel 4 documentary titled Spacey Unmasked aired in May and Spacey, known for House Of Cards and American Beauty, denied fresh claims of inappropriate behaviour featured in the programme.

Former Daily Mirror editor Piers Morgan recently interviewed Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey (James Manning/PA)

The Oscar-winner, who was found not guilty during a London trial last year after being accused of sexual offences, has always denied any criminal wrongdoing, and misconduct allegations.

Morgan has also interviewed the woman who claims to be the inspiration behind Martha in Netflix series Baby Reindeer, said to be based on the real-life experiences of writer Richard Gadd, whose character Donny Dunn is stalked by a woman called Martha Scott.

Fiona Harvey has filed a lawsuit accusing Netflix of defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligence, gross negligence, and violations of her right of publicity.
A watchdog has told Surrey Police to investigate whether a decision to ram an escaped cow with a patrol car was proportionate and whether the officers involved met standards of professional behaviour.

The force was heavily criticised after footage was posted online of a 10-month-old calf being rammed by a police car following reports of a loose animal in Staines-upon-Thames on Friday.

Wildlife presenter and conservationist Chris Packham asked: What sort of monster rams a calf?, while Home Secretary James Cleverly asked for a full, urgent explanation as to why officers used the car to ram the escaped animal, saying it seemed unnecessarily heavy-handed.

The calfs owners, named only as Rob and Kate, said allowing Surrey Police to investigate themselves made it easier for the force to justify the action taken.

They added: We still hold the thought that the handling of this situation was cruel and barbaric.

Please see our statement below regarding a cow on the loose in Staines-upon-Thames yesterday. The cow has been seen by a vet & is receiving treatment for a large cut to its leg. If you have any info or footage, please submit via our online reporting tool: https://t.co/Ynfx68k3mW pic.twitter.com/UWqdj44Bis  Surrey Police (@SurreyPolice) June 15, 2024

Surrey Police said officers tried a number of ways to capture the cow after reports it was running at members of the public and had damaged a car, before the decision was taken to stop it by force using a patrol car.

Watchdog the Independent Office for Police Conduct said on Wednesday that the force could investigate what happened internally.

A spokesman said: We received two complaint referrals from Surrey Police on June 17 in relation to the actions and decision-making by officers from the force while trying to detain a cow in Feltham, west London, on Friday June 14.

Footage of the cow being struck by a police car was shared widely on social media and we have examined this along with footage and audio provided by the force from the officers body-worn videos.

They show the animal ramming a police car, charging at members of the public and posing a risk to road users.

After careful consideration, we have decided that an investigation is required into whether the methods used to contain the cow were appropriate and proportionate in these circumstances, and whether the officers upheld police standards of professional behaviour throughout the incident, including their communication with members of the public who were present.

However, we do not consider the investigation needs to be undertaken by the IOPC so it will be for Surreys professional standards department to take it forward.

If the complainants are unhappy with the outcome of the investigation they will have a right of review to the IOPC, providing a level of independent oversight.

The calf, named Beau Lucy, was returned to Robs farm, located near the border between Surrey and Middlesex, on Saturday morning with bruises, and has since been recovering.

Surrey Police Deputy Chief Constable Nev Kemp said: I know how important it is that we provide the public with answers as to how these actions came about and what events led up to it.

We acknowledge the decision of the IOPC that this should be a local investigation and will continue to progress this accordingly.

A full and thorough investigation will be led by Surrey Polices Professional Standards Department and overseen by a senior investigating officer from Surrey and Sussex Polices Major Crime Team.

This will take time; however, I reaffirm my commitment to ensuring that this is diligently investigated and we will also continue to provide updates to our local community and the wider public.
Nvidia, the US computer chip firm, has moved ahead of tech giants Microsoft and Apple to become the most valuable company in the world.

Here is a look at how the California-based company achieved this.

 What has happened?

On Tuesday, Nvidias share price hit nearly 136 US dollars (107), giving the company an overall valuation of 3.34 US trillion dollars (2.63 trillion).

This made the company more valuable than Microsoft, having also overtaken fellow tech giant Apple earlier this month, and become the most valuable company in the world.

Jensen Huang is chief executive at Nvidia (Chiang Ying-ying/AP)

 Why has the firm become so valuable?

A computer chip giant previously best known for making graphics cards, Nvidia has in recent years come to dominate the market in artificial intelligence (AI) chips  specifically those needed to train and run the powerful AI models that run generative AI software such as OpenAIs ChatGPT.

Generative AI has become the key battleground in the tech space over the last 18 months, with some experts saying it could be as pivotal an innovation as the internet itself in the years to come.

The excitement around the technology has sparked a battle between some of the worlds biggest companies  Apple, Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft and others  to build new AI products.

With Nvidia as the key maker of AI chips, this has substantially boosted the firms sales and profits, with its stock price further helped by some investors believing it could go higher, with demand for AI expected to increase further.

 How fast has Nvidias value grown?

While its share price has been steadily rising for several years now, it has only been this year that it truly took off.

Nvidia makes AI chips  specifically those needed to train and run the powerful AI models that run generative AI software such as OpenAIs ChatGPT (John Walton/PA)

Its value has more than doubled in 2024 to now sit at nearly 136 US dollars a share.

In contrast, at the beginning of 2023, it was priced at less than 15 US dollars a share, and five years ago it was less than four US dollars.

 Is it likely to keep growing?

Many investors believe the demand for AI is only going to increase, meaning Nvidias value could rise still further, with some believing the company is now in a direct race with Microsoft and Apple to be the first to reach a four trillion US dollar valuation over the next year.

But others have questioned whether further big gains in the future are likely, given the increasing competition it is and will likely face in the months and years to come as tech giants begin to build and use their own AI chips, existing rivals catch up and new firms emerge as key players in the AI chip market.
Royal Ascot was flush with royals when the world-famous meeting welcomed members of the monarchy for a day at the races.

The Queen led the way during the second day of the Berkshire event that saw the stands filled with racegoers and the royal box entertaining Camillas guests, with only the Princess of Wales and the King missing.

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary, were among those waiting to greet the royal procession when it entered the parade ring and Sophie was joined by her father Christopher Rhys-Jones.

William chats to his mother-in-law Carole Middleton and Cousin Zara Tindall in Royal Ascots parade ring (Jonathan Brady/PA)

The Princess Royal was spotted with daughter Zara Tindall and her husband former rugby international Mike Tindall, and the Yorks were out in force with Princess Beatrice with partner Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, and Princess Eugenie with spouse Jack Brooksbank.

Sarah, Duchess of York, who made a surprise public appearance with the royals at Sandringham on Christmas day, was also in the parade ring.

The Prince of Wales had travelled in a carriage with Camilla and invited to Royal Ascot were his parents-in-law Carole and Michael Middleton.

Mike Tindall and Sarah, Duchess of York were spotted chatting (David Davies/PA)

It is believed to be their first appearance at major event since it was announced in March Kate had begun a bout of chemotherapy treatment following a cancer diagnosis after abdominal surgery in January.

Kate revealed in a statement on Friday she is making good progress in her treatment but candidly said she has good days and bad days and although she has been working from home, stressed I am not out of the woods yet.

Charles, who is also being treated for cancer, was working in London and was pictured earlier meeting the President of Zambia Hakainde Hichilema at Buckingham Palace.

Princess Eugenie and Carole Middleton in the Royal Box (Jonathan Brady/PA)

As the royals mingled in the parade ring William appeared fascinated by a large tassel on Eugenies wide brimmed hat and joked with his cousin and her sister Beatrice about the accessory.

Zara greeted members of her family with her trademark enveloping hug and joked and laughed while her husband was pictured embracing Edward and putting his arm around the Duchess of York, who has battled cancer, as they chatted.

When the royal party made their way up to the royal box Beatrice and Eugenie were seen drinking the classic summer tipple Pimms.

Princess Eugenie with her distinctive hat (John Walton/PA)

Other guests included Andrew Lloyd Webber who was made a Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Monday, attended by the King and Queen and other senior Royals.

Theatre impresario Lord Lloyd-Webber, whose hit musicals include The Phantom Of The Opera, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar and Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, was joined by his wife.

Away from the royal box filmstar Elizabeth Hurley posed for the cameras during her visit to Royal Ascot.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said his party had taken swift action to suspend a candidate accused of unacceptable pro-Russian posts on social media.

Andy Brown was dropped as the partys candidate in the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East constituency following reports he shared content which played down the countrys role in the Salisbury poisonings.

Reports suggest he shared an article from Russian state media outlet RT which claimed the toxin used in the poisonings was never produced in Russia, but was in service in the US, UK and other Nato states.

But the candidate told the BBC he did not make the social media posts.

Dawn Sturgess, 44, died after being exposed to the nerve agent Novichok, which had been left in a discarded perfume bottle in Amesbury, Wiltshire, in July 2018.

It followed the attempted murders of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia and ex-police officer Nick Bailey, who were poisoned in nearby Salisbury in March that year.

All three survived, as did Ms Sturgesss boyfriend, Charlie Rowley.

Speaking to the PA news agency during a General Election campaign visit, Mr Sarwar said: Weve taken swift action. New information came to light to us last night and within hours this candidate was suspended pending an investigation.

I think thats right thing for us to do.

The Scottish Labour leader added: Hes been suspended pending investigation because of posts which we believe are unacceptable.

We expect the highest standard in all our candidates and all those that seek to be representatives of the Labour Party.

Clearly when new information came to light we took swift action in suspending this candidate and I think thats the right thing for us to do.

A vote for Scottish Labour is a vote to put Scotland at the heart of a Labour Westminster government. pic.twitter.com/imh7gz9U3u  Anas Sarwar (@AnasSarwar) June 18, 2024

He also aligned himself with comments from shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves who told Sky News that she was very, very pleased Mr Brown had been suspended.

She said: I hadnt heard of this guy until this morning and Im very, very pleased that I will hopefully not have to hear of him again because hes been suspended as a Labour candidate.

That is absolutely right. Weve taken the swift action.

As soon as these postings came to light, we got rid of him.

But Mr Brown rejected the claims and suggested he had been hung out to dry.

He told the BBC: I didnt share those.

Where theyve been shared from or how has someone accessed my account and shared them, it may have been corrupted at some point  but honestly, I did not share those.

Pressed on the possibility he had forgotten making the posts, he said: No, I definitely didnt make that. I would never like these at all. Its not the sort of comments I would comment on.

Mr Brown added: Nobody has checked this, it is quite shocking that Ive been treated this way. Ive been hung out to dry, basically.

According to the Press and Journal, in the same month Mr Brown also shared a quote from a Jewish historian which said: The real issue  is that right-wing Jews in the Labour Party and outside the party object to the fact that Jeremy Corbyn is a consistent supporter of Palestinian rights.

Despite being suspended by the party, Mr Brown will still appear on the ballot paper on July 4 due to the deadline for nominations having passed, but he will not receive the backing of Labour.

The Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat has been in the news in recent weeks after Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross went back on his promise to stand down from Westminster to take over the candidacy from former MP David Duguid, who has spent time in hospital.

The SNP is also facing pressure following reports in the Press and Journal that two of its election candidates, Glen Reynolds and Robert Leslie, also posted comments on social media raising doubt about Russias role in the Salisbury poisoning.

Mr Reynolds is standing in Orkney and Shetland while Mr Leslie is standing in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine.

An SNP spokesperson said: Both candidates have made clear their full commitment to the SNPs policy of unequivocal opposition to Putins evil regime and the need to counter it at every opportunity.

Thats why we continue to extend our support to the Ukrainians bravely opposing Russian imperialism, and why we have consistently spoken out against Russian dark money that should have no place in UK politics.

The backlash led to Mr Ross announcing he would stand down as party leader after the July 4 poll.
Researchers have shed new light on why some people do not get Covid-19.

In a world-first, 36 healthy people who had never had coronavirus were deliberately given the virus that causes the disease.

The study found their immune systems responded in a novel way, helping to explain how some people avoid getting Covid.

The findings may pave the way for treatments and vaccines mimicking these natural defences, not just for Covid, but potentially other diseases too.

It is the first time scientists have been able to see how the body responds to a new disease from the very point of exposure.

According to the experts, their data can serve as a Rosetta stone for cells that cover various surfaces of the body, and immune cells, and reveals early responses associated with protection against infection.

Dr Marko Nikolic, senior author of the study at UCL and honorary consultant in respiratory medicine, said: These findings shed new light on the crucial early events that either allow the virus to take hold or rapidly clear it before symptoms develop.

We now have a much greater understanding of the full range of immune responses, which could provide a basis for developing potential treatments and vaccines that mimic these natural protective responses.

The findings, published in Nature, provide the most comprehensive timeline to date of how the body responds to Covid exposure, or any infectious disease.

The scientists suggest it might be possible to extrapolate these findings to other infections, such as flu, and although the study only looked at Covid it is very likely that some of the findings might be similar across different infections.

As part of the UK Covid-19 Human Challenge study, led by Imperial College London, 36 healthy people were given the virus through the nose.

Researchers monitored the blood and lining of their noses, tracking the entire infection as well as the immune cell activity prior to the infection event for 16 volunteers.

The teams at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and UCL then used a technology called single-cell sequencing to generate a dataset of more than 600,000 individual cells.

Across all of those involved in the study, the team discovered previously unreported responses involved in immediate virus detection.

This included activation of specialised immune cells in the blood and a reduction in inflammatory white blood cells that normally engulf and destroy pathogens.

People who were able to immediately fight off the virus did not show a typical widespread immune response but instead mounted subtle, never-seen-before innate immune responses, researchers say.

Dr Rik Lindeboom, co-first author of the study, now at the Netherlands Cancer Institute, said: This was an incredibly unique opportunity to see what immune responses look like when encountering a new pathogen  in adults with no prior history of Covid-19, in a setting where factors such as time of infection and comorbidities could be controlled.

Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, University College London, Imperial College London, the Netherlands Cancer Institute and their collaborators conducted the work which is part of the Human Cell Atlas initiative to map every cell type in the human body.
Rishi Sunak has hit back at billionaires abandoning the Tories by saying they can afford Labours tax rises and refused to rule out working with Nigel Farage after the election.

In a bruising LBC radio phone-in, the Prime Minister was accused by callers of being a poundshop Nigel Farage over his behaviour towards the trans community, and being too rich to relate to food bank users.

He was asked about John Caudwell, Phones4U founder and a former major Tory donor, and Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe throwing their weight behind Sir Keir Starmers party.

Mr Sunak replied: Theyre two of Britains richest men. They can probably afford Labours tax rises.

The Prime Minister also claimed Labour wants to whack taxes up for everyone as he stepped up attacks on his rivals plans in a desperate bid to shift the Tories stubborn double-digit poll deficit.

On a visit to the Sizewell B nuclear power station, he said the fall in inflation back to the 2% target was a very positive step.

And its because that plan has worked that weve been able to start cutting peoples taxes, he told broadcasters.

In contrast, Labour would reverse the progress that weve made and just whack taxes up for everyone, and I dont want to see that happen.

Sir Keir Starmer criticised Mr Sunak for talking nonsense about Labours tax plans, telling reporters during a campaign visit to Wiltshire that the Prime Minister should stop lecturing anybody else about the economy.

He said Mr Caudwells change in support, because he thinks were the party of growth and wealth creation, is a serious move.

Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves said: If Rishi Sunak wants to do him down, thats up to him. But were really proud to have the support of a former Conservative donor and one of the most successful entrepreneurs in our country.

(PA Graphics)

On the radio show, Mr Sunak dodged questions about whether he would welcome Mr Farage into the Conservative Party after the election or work with Reform UK.

Im not focused on after the election. Im focused on winning this election, the Prime Minister said.

He gave the same answer when quizzed on reports that Tory leadership hopefuls are already vying to replace him as party leader after the election.

Amid persistently low poll ratings for the Conservatives, Mr Sunak declined to give his campaign a mark out of 10, saying: Im not interested in those kinds of things.

The cats out of the bag  pic.twitter.com/BXtqrVMN5h  Conservatives (@Conservatives) June 19, 2024

But Cabinet ministers have been ramping up warnings about a Labour landslide.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride said the Opposition could win the largest majority virtually in the history of this country, while Chancellor Jeremy Hunt sounded the alarm over Labour being in power for a very long time if they get such a big majority.

Facing a series of questions about what happens if the Tories are defeated, Mr Sunak insisted he would of course still serve for a full parliamentary term as Richmond and Northallertons MP.

The Prime Minister was challenged on LBC by one man, who said he is gay and living with HIV, over his behaviour towards the trans community.

The caller said I think youve become a poundshop Nigel Farage and accused Mr Sunak of being obsessed with divisive culture wars.

Im very sorry to hear you feel that way, the Prime Minister said.

I dont believe that at all. I care very much about making sure people, whatever their background, are respected.

He also said sorry that the Conservatives have been unable to abolish Section 21 so-called no-fault evictions despite promising to do so in their 2019 manifesto.

After 14 years of Tory chaos, people are worse off. On Thursday 4 July, vote for change. Vote to make Britain better off. Vote Labour. pic.twitter.com/w1l9sH6xM7  The Labour Party (@UKLabour) June 19, 2024

Mr Sunak was also confronted over the explosion in the use of food banks, with a member of the public asking him: How can a Prime Minister who is richer than the King relate to any of our needs and struggles?

When the Tory leader responded that he wants to get the number down and pointed to his work providing an enormous amount of support to everyone while chancellor during the pandemic, the caller said: I think its an absolute lie that you supported people during Covid.

Mr Sunak said he would not apologise for being very fortunate in life.

Liberal Democrat deputy leader Daisy Cooper said: Rishi Sunaks phone-in was just an hour-long broadcast about the Conservatives dismal record of failure.

From dental decay and cancer treatment, to his inability to ban no-fault evictions for renters, its clear that the Prime Minister is out of time and out of ideas.

Sir Keir Starmer and shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves during a visit to Morrisons in Wiltshire (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Meanwhile, Sir Keir described himself as a working person as he expanded his definition of the term.

It came after the Tories claimed the Labour leader is preparing to target savers after he previously suggested working people are those who dont really have the ability to write a cheque when they get into trouble.

Sir Keir said of course our definition covers people whove got savings and that the Conservatives attack has backfired spectacularly, in terms of showing just how out of touch they are.
Taylor Swift surprised fans as she spoke Welsh during her Eras tour show in Cardiff.

The US superstar kicked off her first performance at the Principality Stadium in Wales with a number of hits songs including Cruel Summer, before turning her hand to the language.

Shwmae, Swift told the crowd in videos circulating on social media, which means hello in English.

Croeso i daith Eras, she added, which means: Welcome to the Eras Tour.

cymraeg  at #CardiffTSTheErasTour (just missing un dau tri!) pic.twitter.com/uRCDB3pJ5k  jason brown for mayor (@fzzt_simmons) June 18, 2024

During a rendition of 2012 hit We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Swift passed the microphone to a dancer to perform a regional version of the lyric, saying Ych-a-fi  a Welsh term to describe how disgusting something is.

Meanwhile fans speculated Swifts outfit for the 1989 era of the show  a red glittery skirt and green crop top  was a reference to the colours of the national flag of Wales.

Swift most recently played three back-to-back shows at Liverpools Anfield as part of her record-breaking tour.

On her first night in Liverpool she celebrated the 100th show of the tour, while confirming it will come to an end in December.

The 34-year-old had added dates in South America, Asia, Australia, Europe, and an additional North American leg since she first announced the tour in November 2022.

The UK leg of Swifts mammoth international Eras tour began in Edinburgh and saw the enthusiastic dancing of the nearly 73,000 Swifties picked up by earthquake monitors 3.7 miles away.

Swift is set to return to London in August to end the UK and European stint of the tour, which is estimated to be worth up to 1 billion to the UK economy.

Her last show will be on December 8 in Vancouver, according to her website.
The Telegraph newspaper took a 278 million hit last year on a loan withdrawn by its billionaire owners, the Barclay family, which it said is unlikely to be repaid.

In its annual accounts, the media company said the loan had pushed it to a 244.6 million loss for the 2023 calendar year.

That is despite the news group growing its turnover 5% year-on-year to 268 million, helped by a sharp uplift in digital subscriptions and advertising income.

Telegraph Media Group, which also owns the Spectator magazine and the Chelsea Magazine Company, has been gripped by an ownership crisis since last year.

Lloyds Banking Group took control of the business amid a dispute with the Barclay family over overdue loans of 1.2 billion.

Later in 2023, RedBird IMI, an Abu Dhabi-backed fund, reached a deal with the Barclay family to take control of the group by paying off the debts.

However, in March, the Government said it would bring forward legislation that would block such state-backed takeover deals in the industry.

As a result, a sale process remains ongoing, creating what new chief executive Anna Jones, who joined in January, called a backdrop of uncertainty surrounding its future ownership.

The 278 million hit revealed on Wednesday is part of a loan extracted by the Barclay family, which is understood to have been deemed unrecoverable.

The Telegraphs accounts said that as part of the attempted sale, it carried out a detailed review of historic transactions between TMG and related parties.

The review found potential irregularities in the recording of such transactions.

There is a potential risk of future possible claims against the company in respect of such transactions, it added.

Amid the crisis, TMG hit one million paid subscribers across its media outlets last year, described as an important strategic milestone for the company. In April, The Telegraph won news website of the year at the Press Awards.

The media industry has been hit by sharp declines in print circulation, changing readership habits due to the rise of social media and plunging advertising revenue in recent years.

Ms Jones said the growth in subscribers underlined the companys strength and resilience.

We want to deepen the relationship with our subscribers and cement our position as an authoritative and trusted source to guide them through their daily lives, she said.

Our quality journalism continues to underpin the success of the business and support its underlying financial health.

Without the loan hit, operating profit would have increased by 35% to 54 million, the company said.
The Conservatives are in a deep hole, a pollster has said after a survey of more than 10,000 people suggested the party would hold just 155 seats.

The poll by More In Common projected a Labour majority of 162, just shy of its 1997 and 2001 landslides, with the Conservatives slumping to their worst seat total since 1906.

High-profile casualties forecast in the More In Common projection include Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, who would lose his Godalming and Ash seat to the Liberal Democrats, and Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, who would lose Welwyn Hatfield to Labour.

The results are the most favourable for the Conservatives of recent large-scale polls, after a similar study by Ipsos on Tuesday projected the party would hold 115 seats with Labour securing a majority of 256.

The poll suggested Labour would make gains across the North of England and the Midlands, while becoming the largest party in Scotland and winning much of Wales.

Sir Keir Starmer will have a commanding majority of 162 seats if the More In Common poll is replicated on July 4 (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

It also forecast the Conservatives being almost wiped out in London, holding on to only a handful of constituencies on the fringe of the capital and neck-and-neck with either Labour or the Liberal Democrats in constituencies such as Romford, Bexley and Old Sidcup, and Carshalton and Wallington.

Luke Tryl, executive director of More In Common UK, said the fact it is one of the more positive polls for the Tories shows how deep a hole the party finds itself in with barely two weeks left until polling day.

He said: Far from the narrowing in the polls many expected to see by now, the Conservatives position instead appears to be getting worse and only a small move away from them could see them reduced to 107 seats.

Labour on the other hand looks set to inherit a historic majority while remaining largely undefined in the eyes of the electorate.

But he warned the broad electoral coalition that looks set to secure power for Labour points to potential difficulties in creating a governing agenda that unites such disparate tribes at a time of heightened electoral cynicism.

The poll says Sir Ed Daveys Liberal Democrats look set to return to their position as the third party in the Commons thanks to significant gains and heavy SNP losses (Charlotte Coney/PA)

Elsewhere, the poll forecasts the Liberal Democrats returning to their previous position as the third party and quadrupling their seats to reach 49 MPs, roughly the same number they achieved in 1997.

According to More In Common, the Lib Dems are set to mainly make gains in southern England, particularly Surrey, Oxfordshire, Somerset and Dorset.

Meanwhile, the SNP will be reduced to 18 seats, according to the poll, with Labour sweeping through much of central Scotland and becoming the nations biggest party for the first time since 2015.

The poll, conducted on behalf of The News Agents podcast, surveyed 10,850 people and used the multilevel regression with poststratification (MRP) technique to model results at constituency level.

Unlike Tuesdays Ipsos MRP poll, the More In Common survey forecasts Reform UK winning no seats, with the Tories holding Clacton against Nigel Farages challenge.

But the poll is based on data collected between May 22 and June 17, which includes the period before Mr Farage announced his decision to stand in the seat.

The poll also forecasts that the Green Party will hold Brighton Pavilion, its only seat, but will be unable to make gains elsewhere, coming second in target seats Bristol Central and Waveney Valley.
All recommendations arising from an independent review into the Windrush scandal must be brought in without further delay to ensure justice is served, the solicitor behind the report into the Governments handling of the situation has said.

Wendy Williams said she was delighted by a High Court ruling on Wednesday that a decision to drop some of the 30 recommendations was unlawful.

Windrush victim Trevor Donald, 68, brought legal action against the Home Office over the decision not to proceed with all of the recommendations made to the Government by a review launched in the wake of the scandal.

People from the Caribbean answered Britains call to help fill post-war labour shortages (Alamy/PA)

Ms Williams published her Windrush Lessons Learned Review in 2020 and all 30 recommendations were originally accepted by then-home secretary Priti Patel.

But in January 2023 it was confirmed that Suella Braverman, who was in post as home secretary by that stage, had dropped three.

The Windrush scandal  which campaigners have since said should be known as the Home Office scandal  erupted in 2018 when British citizens, mostly from the Caribbean, were wrongly detained, deported or threatened with deportation despite having the right to live in Britain.

Many lost homes and jobs and were denied access to healthcare and benefits.

The three recommendations dropped by the Home Office during Ms Bravermans time in office were: a commitment to establish a migrants commissioner; to increase the powers of the independent chief inspector of borders and immigration (ICIBI); and to hold reconciliation events.

In her judgment, Mrs Justice Heather Williams ruled that dropping two of the recommendations  related to the migrants commissioner role and the ICIBI  had a disproportionately prejudicial effect upon Windrush victims and indirectly discriminated against them.

The judge also said it was unlawful and conspicuously unfair for the ICIBI recommendation to be shelved without consulting Windrush community representatives and Ms Williams.

She said: I conclude that an inference can be drawn from the evidence before the court that the decision not to proceed was a matter of considerable concern and hurt to a significant number of Windrush victims, given, in particular, that a cause of the scandal was a failure to listen to the voices of those from the Windrush community.

The Home Office said it is carefully considering the judgment.

Ms Williams, in a statement to the PA news agency after the ruling, said: Im pleased that I was able to provide information for the JR proceedings and delighted that Mrs Justice Williams has ruled that the decision not to proceed with all 30 of my recommendations was unlawful.

I hope the Government, and Home Office, will now ensure that all my recommendations are implemented without further delay, so that those affected by the Windrush scandal can fully receive the justice they deserve.

Mr Donald, who was born in Jamaica in 1955, arrived in the UK in 1967 and lived here for the next 43 years.

Having visited Jamaica in 2010, he was refused entry when he attempted to return to the UK and at that point, his lawyers state, he became a Windrush victim.

He was eventually allowed to re-enter the UK following the emergence of the scandal in 2018 and was recognised as having indefinite leave to remain, before being granted British citizenship in January 2022.

In her judgment, Mrs Heather Justice Williams noted Mr Donald missed critical moments in the lives of his children and lost his council flat and most of his possessions.

A further hearing is now expected to consider any damages due to Mr Donald.

Dr Connie Sozi, solicitor for Mr Donald, said the judgment gives the Government, yet again, an opportunity to do the right thing and properly ensure that it has learned lessons from the past.

She suggested the Government could show its commitment to doing this by implementing all three recommendations.

She suggested an inquiry could be needed into the scandal.

She said: The ease at which the Government could renege (on previously accepted recommendations) suggests a stronger form of accountability is needed into the Windrush scandal.

That would be through an inquiry. Whether its the current Government or the next, public interest would be served by this.

Black Equity Organisations (BEO) chief executive Timi Okuwa said after the ruling: With Windrush Day on Saturday, we remember and stand with all Windrush scandal victims, survivors and their descendants.

Therefore, BEO welcomes todays decision that confirms that Suella Bravermans decision to drop these recommendations was unlawful.

We are especially pleased that Mrs Justice Williams recognised the discrimination of the Windrush generation in her judgment.

We are committed to working with the next government to ensure that all the Williams Report recommendations are fully implemented. The work isnt done.

We will continue to hold public institutions to account to ensure that institutional racism is eradicated from our society.

Following the ruling, Unison general secretary Christina McAnea said: The hostile environment had devastating consequences for those affected by the Windrush scandal.

Rather than learning the lessons, the Governments response has been dire.

She continued: No government is above the law.

Thankfully the then-home secretarys been caught bang to rights.

Ministers must treat all people with dignity and respect, and act with integrity.

The hope is the next government will act quickly to make amends to this disgraceful chapter in our history.

A Home Office spokesperson said: We are carefully considering the judgment and will respond in due course.
Dual wildfires in New Mexico turned deadly, as state police announced Wednesday that two people were discovered deceased in the fires that remain uncontained.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency earlier this week as the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire spread with 0% containment as of Wednesday afternoon.

New Mexico State Police reported Patrick Pearson, 60, died after sustaining numerous burns from the South Fork Fire, where he succumbed to his injuries.

PHOTO: Patrick Pearson is shown in this undated photo. (Hilary Mallak)

Pearson was discovered on the side of the road near the Swiss Chalet Motel in Ruidoso, Lincoln County, officials said.

MORE: Wildfire near LA spreads to more than 15,600 acres, 20% containment

Pearson's daughter, Hilary Mallak, told ABC News that he was a musician in Albuquerque for most of his life until he moved to Ruidoso.

Mallak reflected on her father's life, saying, "he made friends everywhere" and would "help people when he could."

Police said the second individual was found dead in a vehicle incinerated in the South Fork Fire in Ruidoso.

PHOTO: Smoke from the South Fork Fire covers the sun, casting an orange light across the Lincoln National Forest at Cedar Creek, in Ruidoso, N. M., June 17, 2024. (Kaylee Greenlee Beal/Reuters)

Officials said they were unable to immediately identify the person due to their condition being skeletal remains.

"No legible identification documents were located in the burned vehicle," according to police.

Fire officials reported the blazes spread to more than 23,400 acres by Wednesday morning, destroying more than 1,400 homes and other structures and causing more than 8,000 people to evacuate.

Evacuation orders are in effect for three counties in the state: Mescalero, Otero and Lincoln, Grisham said during a Tuesday press conference.

PHOTO: Smoke rises as the South Fork Fire left behind extensive property and forest damage in northern Ruidoso, N. M., June 18, 2024. (Kaylee Greenlee Beal/Reuters)

There are 17 federal and state agencies and 800 personnel on the ground working to help people amid evacuations, according to Grisham.

MORE: Wildfire smoke to worsen across US, putting 125 million at risk: Study

The governor said there are 13 wildfire hotshot crews battling the fires in addition to other fire teams.

PHOTO: A burned car stands in front of a ruined building as the South Fork Fire burned most of the structures in Cedar Creek after mass evacuations of the village of Ruidoso, N.M., June 18, 2024. (Kaylee Greenlee Beal/Reuters)

The South Fork Fire was discovered at around 9 a.m. Monday morning on the Mescalero Reservation, west of the Village of Ruidoso, the New Mexico Forestry Division said, noting the cause of the fire remains unknown.

MORE: Canadian wildfire smoke preparedness: How to make a DIY air purifier

"Fire growth has been rapid with extreme fire behavior," the division said.

PHOTO: Smoke plumes from the South Fork Fire rise above the tree line as the fire progresses from the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation to the Lincoln National Forest causing mandatory evacuations in Ruidoso, N. M., June 17, 2024. (Kaylee Greenlee Beal/Reuters)

Nearby, the Salt Fire, also in the Mescalero Reservation, is slower moving but "creeping through difficult, mountainous terrain south of Ruidoso," fire officials said.

The Mescalero Reservation is approximately 130 miles southeast of Albuquerque

New Mexico has submitted a federal emergency disaster request, which Grisham noted should be approved within the next 24 hours.

60-year-old among 2 confirmed dead in New Mexico wildfires: 'He made friends everywhere' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Stacy Lee Drake, 50, of Birmingham, Alabama, was last seen on foot outside a motel in Morrilton, Arkansas, and is believed to be armed and dangerous.

The Arkansas State Police and other local law enforcement agencies are working to apprehend an Alabama man wanted in connection with multiple homicides.

Stacy Lee Drake, 50, of Birmingham, Alabama, was last seen outside a motel in Morrilton, Arkansas, and is believed to be armed and dangerous, the Arkansas Department of Public Safety said in a news release Wednesday. The Fort Smith Police Department in Fort Smith, Arkansas, said on Facebook that Drake has ties to the area.

The department said Drake is wanted in connection with three homicides in Oklahoma stemming from two separate car jackings. He is also separately wanted on multiple felony warrants from multiple jurisdictions, with charges including aggravated robbery, car jacking and murder, according to the news release.

According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, Sequoyah County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a business in Gans, Oklahoma, around 6:30 p.m. Tuesday. The found the bodies of a man and woman.

Stacy Lee Drake, 50, of Birmingham, Alabama, was last seen on foot outside a motel in Morrilton, Arkansas, and is believed to be armed and dangerous.

"Both sustained injuries consistent with homicide," the OBSI said in a news release.

As they began investigating the scene, they identified Drake as a person of interest, and the vehicle he stole was located in Morrilton Tuesday night, the OBSI said. His last known address was in Birmingham.

The ADPS says anyone who sees Drake should not approach him and should call 911 immediately.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Suspect wanted in multiple homicides spotted in Morrilton, Arkansas
Getting in on an initial public offering  more commonly called an IPO  seems like the ticket to riches. Buy a hot new stock and get in on the ground floor of a blockbuster company with the potential to become one of the best-performing stocks on the market.

Of course, despite their popularity, even IPOs are not a sure thing. For every fairy-tale stock that takes off like a rocket following its debut, plenty of IPOs, such as Lyft, post lackluster results and simply stagnate. Some  such as meal delivery service Blue Apron  even crash and burn.

Before rushing to invest a pocketful of cash, its important to know how to buy an IPO. Heres how you can get in on the IPO action.

How to buy IPO stock

How do you buy IPO stock? First, understand the process: When a company goes public and issues stock, it wants to raise capital and make shares available to the public to purchase.

The IPO is underwritten by an investment bank, broker-dealer or a group of investment banks and broker-dealers. They purchase the shares from the company and then sell and distribute the shares at the IPO to investors. Until the IPO happens, the company remains private.

The brokers find a home for the largest pieces. If there is a lot of interest, the shares go very easily into the hands of institutional investors, says Rob Lutts, managing partner at Cabot Wealth Management in Salem, Massachusetts.

The goal of an IPO in the first place is to raise a certain amount of capital for the company to run its business, so selling a million shares to an institutional investor is much more efficient than finding 1,000 individuals to purchase the same amount.

But even big institutions often dont get as much of the action as they would like, because the initial public offering sells only a limited number of shares.

Especially with a smaller IPO, nobody really gets 100 percent of their fill. In fact, no one gets more than 10 percent of their interest in the allocation, says Kathleen Shelton Smith, principal at Renaissance Capital, a global IPO and investment advisor.

Who gets to buy IPO stocks?

For most individual investors, that dream of getting in on the IPO action will never be realized. You cant simply log in and buy them, even at the best online brokers for stock trading. Instead, its the big institutional investors who typically get access.

Institutions that get to participate in the initial public offering often do a lot of business with the brokers underwriting the deal. That relationship puts them in prime position to access some shares in the IPO.

Its stacked in favor of large asset managers, but its a money game and everyone is in it to make a buck and that is where [the stock] goes  it goes to the best customers of those brokers, Lutts says.

The reality is your broker perceives individual investors as unattractive targets for IPOs. Instead, management, employees, friends and families of the company going public may be offered the chance to buy shares at the IPO price in addition to investment banks, hedge funds and institutions. High-net-worth clients may be rewarded with IPO shares from time to time as well.

If you have an account with the broker bringing the company public and happen to keep most of your vast fortune with that broker, you may be able to beg your way into a hot IPO.

That still doesnt mean youre going to get in. For LinkedIns [IPO], for instance, unless you were friends or family, you were probably out of luck, says Jeremy Carpenter, former portfolio analyst with Investor Solutions in Miami.

Lutts agrees, I manage $500 million, and I cant get the really hot ones.

How long before an IPO stock can be sold?

One of the biggest attractions of buying IPO stock is the enormous potential for profit  often on day one. When shares of LinkedIn were first publicly offered, prices rose 109 percent from $45 to $94.25 on the same day.

In general, its likely your IPO stock is held in an online brokerage account and can be sold at nearly any time, either online or with a phone call. You can also typically place a limit order and set the price and number of shares you want to sell.

However, profit from shares held for less than one year from the date of purchase are taxed as ordinary income, which is often higher than the long-term capital gains rate. And of course, even if you do hold shares longer, youll still be liable for taxes on any gains.

Finding an IPO and getting in

Once the stock is trading on the exchange, small-fry investors and big-time professionals have plenty of opportunities to buy shares. In fact, waiting for a stocks actual debut can be a smaller investors best strategy when it comes to new public companies.

As soon as the underwriting bank sets the price and it starts trading on the exchange, individuals can start buying IPO stock.

But if they want to get in on the action, would-be IPO investors have at least three other alternatives without having to be well-connected:

Invest in a mutual fund

Consider investing in one of a handful of mutual funds that invest in IPOs, such as Renaissance Capitals IPO ETF (IPO).

Were really looking at investing in these companies that are not well-known yet by the market and that have an ability to get us gains very early in the price discovery [process], says Shelton Smith.

Look for brokers that offer IPO access

Given how hot IPOs are, many investing companies are looking to get investors access to them. Retail brokerage Robinhood offers new shares to its clients as part of its IPO Access program.

Robinhoods program is interesting, but youre likely to get only a handful of shares, if you get any at all. The program is likely to prove popular with Robinhoods clients, at least in theory, but the real question is how effective can it be at getting new shares to its clients.

Open an account at a thrift bank

A third alternative is to open a deposit account at a mutually owned thrift bank and wait for the bank to conduct its IPO. Depositors at these small banks can get access to the IPO, and many of the stocks enjoy a solid pop on their first trading day. The downside is that the thrift may wait years before it conducts an IPO, and its under no obligation to do so.

The following site provides a full list of mutually owned thrifts that may go public in the future.

Risks of buying an IPO

Smaller investors still need to weigh the pros and cons before buying an IPO. As the time-honored adage goes, buyer beware. IPO purchases are not without risk, which can be significant at times.

Here are the biggest risks of an IPO:

After a first-day pop, the stock may fall. While the first-day pops of many IPOs are legendary, that doesnt mean that the future works out as merrily. Consider that some of the highest-flying IPOs of recent times have lost their luster with Wall Street investors after an initial honeymoon.

Even white-hot IPOs can fall  there are no guarantees. Twitter, Spotify, Uber, Lyft and even Meta Platforms (formerly known as Facebook) all fell substantially after their stocks debuted, and of this group, only Meta and Spotify have managed to surpass their IPO price on a consistent basis.

The discount offered at the initial public offering may not be that great. According to Shelton Smith, the IPO price should be, on average, a 13-15 percent discount from what might be the regular trading price once the stock is public. However, some truly hot IPOs return much better than that.

IPOs require research and analysis. If youre considering buying an IPO, youll need to research and evaluate the companys business model. Youll need to assess its future plans and want to see whether the company is consistently profitable or at least has a path to consistent profitability.

Dont assume that an IPO is profitable  or ever will be. Amazingly, many companies come to market without a clear plan to generate sustained profits.

A limited operation history can make the company hard to evaluate. New IPOs often have limited histories and so it can be tough to assess and value them. This is particularly true when a company is in a nascent industry, as dotcom companies were in the 1990s, and AI, ride-sharing and electric vehicle companies are today.

Dual share classes may privilege insiders. Some of the most popular tech stocks in the recent past use two (or more) share classes, to privilege insiders and severely limit the power of outside investors to influence the company. Typically, outsiders are offered a share class that does not have the same voting rights as the shares held by insiders, such as company founders, even if both share classes have the same economic rights. For example, insider stock may have 10 votes, compared to one vote for regular stock.

To get some insight into how the company works and how the stock is valued, investors can look at the massive registration document required by the Securities and Exchange Commission for all new securities.

Known as Form S-1, or the Registration Statement Under the Securities Exchange Act of 1933, the offering document must contain specific information for investors, including financial information, the business model, risk factors and information about the industry. This document can be found on the SECs website, and it is normally loaded with caveats and disclaimers.

If investors can wade through this prospectus, they can glean enough information about the new company to make a call about the valuation  is it worth buying at the price people are selling?

Buying an IPO stock: Step-by-step

Getting access to an IPO before it begins trading isnt easy. Heres what youll need to do if you hope to have a chance.

Have an online account with a broker that offers IPO access. Brokers like Robinhood and SoFi Active Investing offer IPO trading, so youll need an account with them or another broker that offers similar access. Meet eligibility requirements. Just having an account isnt enough. Youll need to meet certain eligibility requirements that can vary from broker to broker. You may need to have a certain amount in assets with the broker or be considered an active trader. Request shares. Once you meet the eligibility requirements, youll need to request shares from the broker. But its far from guaranteed that youll get shares just because you request them. Brokers have a set number of shares available and you may not be able to get any of them. Place an order. The trade order is known as a conditional offer to buy, which wont become active until the IPO is priced. Youll have a chance to confirm or change your order after pricing has been set and before the window closes. You wont be able to buy more shares than you requested and wont pay a higher price than you indicated in your order.

Can you buy pre-IPO stocks?

While some places offer trading in shares of private companies, its generally not something thats recommended for individual investors. Before a company moves ahead with an IPO, it is considered private and its investors are primarily institutions such as venture capital and private equity firms, or employees of the company.

Some platforms do offer shares of private companies by buying shares from the companys employees. But liquidity in these shares is significantly less than that of public companies and the information available to investors is also meaningfully reduced.

IPOs vs. direct listings

On the surface, IPOs and direct listings do the same thing: allow companies to make shares available to the public. But underneath there are some key differences between the two methods. Heres what makes each unique and the benefits of each approach.

IPO

Companies rely heavily on intermediaries such as investment banks and brokers to shepherd them through the listing process.

An IPO involves creating new shares to be sold to investors, increasing the total number of outstanding shares.

A portion of the money raised through an IPO will go directly to intermediaries such as investment banks as a fee for the services provided.

Direct listing

No new shares are created in a direct listing, but existing investors in the company agree to sell a portion of their shares to the public.

Direct listings do not use intermediaries as part of the listing process, and therefore are usually able to avoid the large fees associated with an IPO.

By avoiding intermediaries, direct listings save on fees but run the risk that the share sale falls flat due to a lack of support or guarantee.

Bottom line

Buying IPO stocks requires a lot of homework, and they can be risky. Even for those who are able to get in on the first-day pop, IPOs may not be a sure bet. So, most individual investors should consider newly public companies carefully. Its wise to limit your position size on any individual stock to a few percent of your holdings.

Note: Bankrates Rachel Christian contributed to an update of this story.

Editorial Disclaimer: All investors are advised to conduct their own independent research into investment strategies before making an investment decision. In addition, investors are advised that past investment product performance is no guarantee of future price appreciation.
A rancorous Republican congressional primary in Virginia that has been a proxy fight amid larger party divisions remained unresolved Wednesday morning.

House Freedom Caucus Chair Bob Good, who angered allies of former President Donald Trump and former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, was trailing state Sen. John McGuire by 342 votes as of Wednesday morning in Virginias 5th Congressional District  a margin small enough for a second-place finisher to call for a recount should it hold. Mail ballots can continue to arrive until Friday.

CNN has not made a projection in the race as yet.

Good wrote on social media Tuesday night that his team was still waiting on final election results.

We implemented the best early voting operation that the 5th District has ever seen, and we are still waiting for the results of mail-in ballots and provisional ballots. We are doing what we can to ensure we have teams of observers and legal counsel to ensure all the votes are properly counted in the coming days, the congressman said.

McGuire, who had Trumps and McCarthys backing, however, was already looking forward to November.

There are still a few votes left to count, but its clear that all paths end with a victory, the state senator wrote on social media early Wednesday morning. I look forward to working with Trump to beat Joe Biden in November & pass Trumps agenda in Congress.

Good faced a fierce effort to knock him out from a broad swath of the GOP in what became the most expensive House Republican primary of the cycle. As one of the chief architects of the move to oust McCarthy last fall, Good drew the ire of the former speakers allies, who spent millions seeking revenge. The congressman also lost Trumps support after he endorsed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in the 2024 Republican presidential primary.

Key Trump impeachment figure will win Democratic primary for open Virginia seat

Eugene Vindman, a retired Army colonel and key figure in Trumps first impeachment, will win the Democratic primary for Virginias 7th Congressional District, CNN projects.

Vindman is looking to succeed retiring Democratic Rep. Abigail Spanberger in what is expected to be a competitive race this fall with the House GOPs narrow majority on the line. Derrick Anderson, a retired Army Green Beret, is projected to win the Republican nomination to take on Vindman in the 7th District, which includes the Washington, DC, exurbs.

Vindman and his twin brother, retired Army Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, are best known for their role in the impeachment after both raised concerns about a 2019 phone call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In the call, Trump allegedly asked for an investigation into Hunter Biden, the son of then-presidential candidate Joe Biden.

Alexander Vindman was a star witness during the 2020 impeachment hearing, and the twins  who both worked for the National Security Council  became heroes to Democratic activists opposed to the former president.

Eugene Vindmans role in Trumps impeachment likely made a difference in his campaign. While most of his primary opponents were current and former elected officials, the first-time candidate raised $5 million through May 29, federal records show. That haul was about four times as much as the combined total of the other six Democrats in the race.

Spanberger, the retiring congresswoman, is vacating her seat to run for governor next year. A former CIA officer, she won a third term in 2022 by 5 points.

Cole coasts in Oklahoma primary

Oklahoma Rep. Tom Cole, the veteran Republican who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, will easily fend off a primary challenge in the states 4th Congressional District, CNN projects.

Cole is projected to win a four-way primary that included insurance broker Paul Bondar, who loaned his campaign more than $5 million through May 29 and blanketed the airwaves with ads.

Cole, a longtime GOP operative, had Trumps endorsement. But Bondar cast himself as a more conservative alternative to the veteran congressman. He also sought to undercut ties between Trump and Cole, airing ads highlighting Coles donations to Trumps 2024 GOP primary rivals before they ran for president.

First elected to Congress in 2002, Cole has maintained close ties to conservatives in the House  and voted against certifying certain 2020 election results and against impeaching Trump twice.

He has almost always voted with me, including on both Impeachment Hoaxes, Trump said in his early May endorsement of Cole.

Perhaps the most unusual aspect of Tuesdays race was how new Bondars ties to Oklahoma are. After spending most of his career in Illinois, Bondar moved to Texas in 2020, living outside Dallas  where he voted in this Marchs Republican primary. Then, in April, he launched his congressional campaign in Oklahoma. State voting records show Bondars early in-person ballot in his primary race is the first time he has voted in Oklahoma. Coles allies aired ads questioning Bondars residency.

The pro-Cole Americans 4 Security super PAC aired a 30-second spot that compared the primary to the Red River rivalry  a famously bitter one featuring the University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas. It highlighted Coles long-standing Sooner State ties, including that he graduated from the University of Oklahoma, and described his opponent as Texan Paul Bonder, straight from Dallas trying to buy an Oklahoma congressional seat.

Dont let a Longhorn try to take our Sooner seat, the ad said, referring to the two schools mascots.

Bondars campaign responded with an ad claiming that the challenger owns a home in Oklahoma and has purchased a 500-acre property to build his dream home in Caddo. The ad featured the previous owner, Cheyenne Stanley, saying hed sold the Bondars both properties, the first about two years ago.

This headline and story have been updated.

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MOORE, Okla.  More than once during the past few weeks, U.S. Rep. Tom Cole has likened his Republican primary race against Paul Bondar in Oklahomas Fourth Congressional District to a bar fight.

In a bar fight, the guy with the most money doesnt win, the guy with the most friends wins the fight, Cole told supporters gathered at Nosh, a restaurant in his hometown, on Tuesday. We have a lot of friends and a lot of you are here tonight.

In one of the most expensive primary races in state history, Cole  whos served in Congress since 2003 and now chairs the powerful House Appropriations Committee  posted a decisive victory over Bondar, an insurance salesman who only recently moved from Texas to Oklahoma. With all precincts reporting results, Cole had received 64.6% of the vote, compared to about 25.8% for Bondar.

Republican incumbents won with overwhelming numbers in the two other GOP congressional primaries, with U.S. Rep. Kevin Hern and U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas winning in the First District and Third District, respectively. Lucas, with no general-election opponent, already has sealed another two-year term in Congress.

Much of the state GOP focus on Tuesday was on the Cole-Bondar race. Federal Election Commission documents show Bondar raised about $13,000 from outside donors and lent his campaign $5.1 million. Bondar spent heavily on television and print advertising.

For his part, Cole raised $3,143,477.77 for the campaign and reported $1,303,788 cash on hand. Cole's filing shows his campaign has no debt, and Cole had not, as of June 11, loaned his campaign any funds.

U.S. Rep. Tom Cole speaks after a decisive win in the primaries at Cole's watch party at Nosh Restaurant in Moore, on Tuesday, June 18, 2024.

Among those supporting Cole at his watch party were U.S. Rep. Stephanie Bice (who didnt face a primary in the Fifth District), former U.S. Rep. J.C. Watts and former Gov. Frank Keating, under whom Cole once served as the Oklahoma secretary of state. State Rep. Mark McBride, whos represented Moore at the Oklahoma Capitol for the past 12 years and is a good friend of Coles, also attended.

Cole has ascended to great heights in the GOP-controlled Congress and now serves as the chair of the House Appropriations Committee, one of the most powerful positions in Washington. That committee  along with its counterpart in the U.S. Senate  writes the federal budget.

We always felt like we were in a good spot, but its the first time in my career Ive had an opponent able to substantially outspend me, Cole said. Fair enough, Im not complaining about that, but thats when people have to step up and really help. I feel good about it. Its a vote of confidence in the job that Ive done through the years for my fellow Republicans and a sign that being chairman of (appropriations) is a good thing, not a bad thing, as some of my critics say. You dont win like this if other people dont do their job and Ive got a great staff and a great campaign team.

Election results: See Oklahoma primary 2024 results

In an unusual move, the three other candidates in the race endorsed Bondar in recent days in a television ad. None of the three  Andrew Hayes, Rick Whitebear Harris and Nick Hankins  received more than 4.1 percent of the vote.

Bondar, who grew up in Wisconsin, spent much of his adult life in Illinois. He owned the Bondar Insurance Group in Oak Brook, Illinois, and moved to Texas in 2020. Records show Bondar voted as recently as March 5 in a Texas election. Bondar was issued an Oklahoma driver's license in April. His campaign said he has owned property in Oklahoma since 2022.

U.S. Rep. Tom Coles signs are planted outside at Cole's watch party at Nosh Restaurant in Moore, on Tuesday, June 18, 2024.

We did not make the runoff  but we did not lose, Bondar said. We laid the foundation for the future. This campaign has always been about a movement. That movement is just beginning. When we entered this race, the powers that be didnt take us seriously. They didnt take the people seriously. Now they do.

Bondar said his campaign went from a fringe campaign with a political outsider as a candidate, to commanding the attention of the country.

Bondar said during the campaign he intended to stay in politics for the long haul and he reiterated that intent on Tuesday.

This is not the last you will hear from Paul Bondar, he said. "Our work in Oklahoma has just begun. American history teaches us  one defeat in battle does not signal the end of the war. We have not yet begun to fight. Thank you all. I will see you again in 2026.

In November, Cole will face Mary Brannon of Washington, the winner of the Democratic primary in the Fourth District, along with independent James Stacy of Burneyville. Brannon won 60.7% of the primary vote in defeating Kody Macaulay of Moore.

Paul Bondar is running against Rep. Tom Cole for Oklahoma's 4th Congressional District.

Lucas cruises in primary and, without a November opponent, is automatically reelected

The Third District winner, Lucas, is a farmer and rancher from Cheyenne. Hes the dean of Oklahomas congressional delegation, having served since winning a special election in 1994. This year marked only the sixth time in 16 election cycles that Lucas has drawn a primary challenge, and hes never received less than 61.1% of the vote in a primary.

That streak remained alive in 2024. Lucas took a little more than 73% of the vote for the Third District seat, beating Darren Hamilton of Fort Supply and Robin Lynn Carder of Sand Springs, who received 13.9% and 13.1%, respectively, while running to the political right of Lucas. The district covers almost half of Oklahomas land territory, including the Panhandle, most of western Oklahoma and north-central Oklahoma, and extends into the western portions of both the Oklahoma City and Tulsa metropolitan areas.

Lucas, a former chair of the House Agriculture Committee, long has been associated with promoting agricultural interests in Washington and still serves on that committee. Hes also the chairman of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee and serves on the House Financial Services Committee.

The thrill of election night, political adrenaline  its like a ball game or a horse race, Lucas told The Oklahoman. Its thrilling until the voters have had the final say.

Serving in Congress, he said, never gets old. There are always new challenges back east and new issues at home. With the variety in our district  the suburbs of Oklahoma City and Tulsa, the northwestern half of the state  things are constantly changing and happening.

No Democrat, Libertarian, or independent filed for the Third District seat, meaning Lucas will automatically serve another two-year term. Its the first time Lucas will run unopposed in the general election.

It is an amazing thing. Every time Ive been on the ballot, we at least had a general election, Lucas said. It will be nice to be able to start tomorrow focusing on the new session of Congress.

Hern wins in dominating fashion in GOP primary in Tulsa-area district

Hern, whos seeking a fourth consecutive term in Congress, easily prevailed in the race in the First District, which encompasses most of the Tulsa metropolitan area. With 87% of the vote, he downed Paul Royse of Tulsa, who ran on a platform to protect Social Security and Medicare from cuts, border control and reducing the national debt.

Hern has said hes among the most conservative members of the House of Representatives.

"Im humbled that the voters of Oklahoma's First District have put their trust in me," Hern said in a statement. "As we move forward to one of the most important elections in American history this November, its critical that we have leaders who will put America First. I'm ready to send Donald Trump back to the White House and I can't wait to work alongside him and his administration in our nation's capital. Im honored to represent the heartland in Congress, and Ill continue to fight every day to keep Oklahomans safe from federal overreach.

Dennis Baker, whos spent his professional career in law enforcement  including stints with the Tulsa Police Department and the FBI  beat frequent candidate Evelyn Rogers in the Democratic primary in the First District, taking 59.2% of the vote. One of Bakers key issues is pushing for the construction of a high-speed passenger rail line between Tulsa and Oklahoma City.

It was Rogers fifth attempt to win a congressional seat. She ran as a Republican, losing in the primary in 2014 and 2016, and as an independent in 2020 and 2022, losing in the general election to Hern those two times. In 2014, she sought a Senate seat; all of the other races were for a House seat.

Hern and Baker will be joined by independent Mark Sanders of Tulsa on the November ballot.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Key House chair Tom Cole wins 'bar fight' primary in Oklahoma
Justin Timberlake pleads guilty to traffic violation in DWI case: 'This is a mistake that I made'

Justin Timberlake has pleaded guilty to a non-criminal traffic violation of driving while impaired in connection with his arrest in the Hamptons on June 18.

Timberlake, who appeared in Sag Harbor Village Justice Court on Long Island, New York, on Sept. 13, agreed to make a public safety announcement, pay a fine and do 25 to 40 hours of community service. He has a year to complete the community service.

Timberlake's court appearance came two days after the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office said it had reached a plea agreement with the pop star.

Many of you have probably been covering me for a lot of my life, and as you may know, I try to hold myself to a very high standard for myself, and this was not that, Timberlake told reporters at a press conference after the court appearance.

I found myself in a position where I could have made a different decision, but Ive had some time to reflect on that, and I also understand, you know, the fact that all of you are here, that I have a platform, you have a platform, we share that platform. And so what Id like to say to everyone watching and listening, even if youve had one drink, dont get behind the wheel of a car. Theres so many alternatives.

This is a mistake that I made, but Im hoping that whoevers watching and listening right now can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have, he added.

Edward Burke Jr., an attorney for Timberlake, also addressed the case.

Contrary to what was reported he wasnt drinking other peoples drinks or warned in advance not to drive, he said. He wasnt rude, he wasnt obnoxious, he wasnt belligerent. In fact, he was polite, he was cooperative, he was respectful during his entire encounter with law enforcement as they were to him.

A statement from Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney read in part, "We appreciate his willingness to hold himself accountable for his behavior, and for using his platform to increase public awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. As previously stated, Mr. Timberlake received the same treatment as any other defendant. Justice should be applied equally to all individuals, regardless of their wealth or celebrity status."

Timberlake, 43, was driving a gray 2025 BMW when an officer observed him run a stop sign and then fail to stay in his lane on two occasions, the Sag Harbor Police Department said in a complaint released on June 18.

Surveillance video posted on Hamptons.com appeared to show a vehicle that matches the description of the one Timberlake was driving when he was pulled over and arrested by police in New York.

The officer initiated a traffic stop and determined Timberlake was driving in an "intoxicated condition," police said.

Timberlake's mug shot from his June 18 arrest

In the complaint, an officer said Timberlake's "eyes were bloodshot and glassy, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his breath, he was unable to divide attention, he had slowed speech, he was unsteady afoot, and he performed poorly on all standardized field sobriety tests."

The "SexyBack" singer told officers, I had one martini and followed my friends home," Sag Harbor police said.

He refused to take a breathalyzer test three times, police said. He was placed under arrest and held overnight.

Burke Jr. issued a statement to NBC News following the arrest: I look forward to vigorously defending Mr. Timberlake on these allegations. I will have a lot to say at the appropriate time but am currently awaiting full discovery from the District Attorneys office.

Timberlake ate at the American Hotel in the upscale Long Island beach town and then was headed to a friends home when he was pulled over, a source close to the star had told NBC News.

Timberlake appeared virtually at a court hearing on Aug. 2 and pleaded not guilty. His license was suspended in New York for the duration of the case.

Timberlake released his latest album, "Everything I Thought It Was," in March, and began his "Forget Tomorrow World Tour" in April in Vancouver, Canada.

When the pop star took the stage at a concert in Chicago on June 21 for the first time since his arrest, he thanked his fans for growing up with him over the years.

Weve been through ups and downs and lefts and rights, he said to the cheering crowd. Its been a tough week.

I know sometimes Im hard to love but you keep on loving me and Im going to love you right back, he continued.

Timberlake didnt specifically mention the arrest.

Timberlake's tour dates are scheduled into 2025 and feature appearances in North America, South America and Europe.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Russian President Vladimir Putin has landed in North Korea for a rare visit that signals the two countries deepening alignment and Moscows need to source weapons from Pyongyang to sustain its war on Ukraine.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally greeted Putin at the plane ramp as he arrived in the North Korean capital of Pyongyang in the early hours of Wednesday morning local time, video footage of his arrival showed.

State media RIA reported that the two leaders talked animatedly with each other for several minutes before reaching their motorcade.

The pair then rode together to the Kumsusan State Guest House where Putin will be staying, according to North Korean state media KCNA, and the two leaders exchanged their pent-up innermost thoughts and opened their minds to more surely develop (North Korea-Russia) relations in conformity with the common desire and will of the peoples of the two countries.

After arriving at the guesthouse, they held a friendly chat, KCNA added.

The streets of Pyongyang were decked out with Russian flags and posters of Putin ahead of his first visit to the country since 2000. This weeks visit is a rare overseas trip for Putin since he launched the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, and a key moment for Kim, who has not hosted another world leader in his politically isolated country since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Putins visit will be closely watched across the world and is expected to cement further the burgeoning partnership between the two powers that is founded on their shared animosity toward the West and driven by Moscows need for munitions for its war in Ukraine.

Following his visit to North Korea, Putin is scheduled to travel to Hanoi in a display of Communist-governed Vietnams ties to Russia that is likely to rankle the United States.

Putins trip to North Korea will have a very eventful agenda, his aide Yuri Ushakov said during a press conference Monday. Both leaders plan to sign a new strategic partnership, Ushakov said.

Ushakov insisted the agreement is not provocative or aimed against other countries, but is meant to ensure greater stability in northeast Asia. He said the new agreement will replace documents signed between Moscow and Pyongyang in 1961, 2000 and 2001.

Satellite imagery from Planet Labs and Maxar Technologies showed preparations for a large parade in Pyongyangs central square. One image was of a grandstand being constructed on the eastern side of Kim Il Sung Square, the site where all major parades in North Korea are held. In an earlier image, taken on June 5, North Koreans can be seen practicing marching formations.

US national security spokesman John Kirby told reporters Monday the Biden administration wasnt concerned about the trip itself, but added, What we are concerned about is the deepening relationship between these two countries.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin is greeted by North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un during a welcoming ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024. - Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik/Reuters

The US, South Korea and other countries have accused North Korea of providing substantial military aid to Russias war effort in recent months, while observers have raised concerns that Moscow may be violating international sanctions to aid Pyongyangs development of its nascent military satellite program. Both countries have denied North Korean arms exports.

Putins trip reciprocates one Kim made last September, when the North Korean leader traveled in his armored train to Russias far eastern region, for a visit that included stops at a factory that produces fighter jets and a rocket-launch facility.

It also comes as tensions remain high on the Korean peninsula amid heightened international concern about the North Korean leaders intentions as he ramped up bellicose language and scrapped a longstanding policy of seeking peaceful reunification with South Korea.

South Korea fired warning shots on Tuesday after North Korean soldiers working in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two Koreas briefly crossed into the South, according to South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff, the second incident of its kind in the last two weeks.

An advancing partnership

Kim last week hailed the future of the countries meaningful ties and close comradeship in a message to Putin commemorating Russias national day on June 12.

Our people give full support and solidarity to the successful work of the Russian army and people, Kim said, according to the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper.

In an article for the same newspaper published early Tuesday local time, Putin thanked Pyongyang for showing unwavering support for Russias war in Ukraine and said the two countries were ready to confront the ambition of the collective West.

He said the two were actively advancing their multifaceted partnership and would develop alternative trade and mutual settlements mechanisms not controlled by the West, jointly oppose illegitimate unilateral restrictions, and shape the architecture of equal and indivisible security in Eurasia.

The meeting comes just days after a summit of the Group of Seven (G7) developed economies in Italy attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, where Western leaders reiterated their enduring support for Ukraine and agreed to use profits from frozen Russian assets to back a $50 billion loan to the war-torn country.

It also follows a Kyiv-backed international peace summit over the weekend attended by more than 100 countries and organizations, which was meant to drum up support for Zelenskys vision for peace, which calls for a complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory.

Putin rebuffed those efforts a day ahead of the gathering by offering his own peace conditions, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four partially occupied regions and that Kyiv withdraw its bid to join NATO  a position seen as nonstarter by Ukraine and its allies.

Putins visit to North Korea is widely viewed as an opportunity for him to seek to bolster Kims support for his war  a goal that may be increasingly urgent as long-delayed American military aid for Ukraine comes online.

Last month, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin told American lawmakers the provision of North Korean munitions and missiles, as well as Iranian drones, had allowed Russian forces to get back up on their feet.

Between August and February, Pyongyang shipped about 6,700 containers to Russia, which could accommodate more than 3 million rounds of 152 mm artillery shells or more than 500,000 rounds of 122 mm multiple rocket launchers, South Koreas defense ministry said earlier this year.

Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied such arms transfers, with a senior North Korean official last month calling such allegations an absurd paradox.

When asked about concerns that Russia is considering the transfer of sensitive technologies to Pyongyang in exchange for those goods, a Kremlin spokesperson last week said the countries potential for developing bilateral relations was profound and should not cause concern to anyone and should not and cannot be challenged by anyone.

Putin on the world stage

Putin last visited North Korea in 2000, his first year as president of Russia, where he met with Kims predecessor and late father Kim Jong Il.

His travel now to North Korea and then Vietnam comes as the Russian leader appears keen to re-establish himself on the global stage, chipping away at an image of isolation in the wake of his widely condemned invasion of Ukraine by drawing in like-minded partners.

Last month Putin made a state visit to Beijing, where he and Chinese leader Xi Jinping made a sweeping affirmation of their shared opposition to what they see as a US-led world order.

Moscow last week hosted foreign ministers from countries including China, Iran, South Africa and Brazil for a meeting of the BRICS group of major developing economies.

US national security spokesman John Kirby on Monday called Putins latest travel a charm offensive following the leaders re-election. Putin won his fifth term earlier this year in a contest without true opposition.

Putins move to bolster North Korean ties has also been a boon for Kim, who remains unbowed by years of international sanctions over his illegal nuclear weapons program.

The visit from a leader of a permanent member country of the United Nations Security Council will provide a signal to Kims domestic audience of his global clout  and a chance to push for deeply needed economic and technological support from Moscow.

Russia previously backed international sanctions and UN-backed investigations into North Koreas illegal weapons program, which includes tests of long-range intercontinental ballistic missiles that could in theory reach the US mainland.

But Russias apparent increasing reliance on North Korea and rising frictions with the West appear to have shifted that dynamic. In March, Moscow vetoed a UN resolution to renew independent monitoring of North Koreas violations of Security Council sanctions.

Additional reporting by Gawon Bae, Michael Mitsanas, Katharina Krebs, Mariya Knight, Yoonjung Seo, Betsy Klein and Paul P. Murphy

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The most valuable companies in the world have grown to impressive heights in recent years, with seven publicly traded companies reaching market capitalizations of $1 trillion or more. All but one of the companies come from the tech sector, with many offering products and services that consumers use every day. Several of them also made it onto Bankrates list of top performing stocks.

Nvidia briefly took over the top spot as the worlds most valuable company earlier in 2024, passing Microsoft and Apple, behind a business boom driven by demand for artificial intelligence (AI). Nvidia first joined the $1 trillion club in May 2023 and since then has added more than $2 trillion in additional market value.

Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway joined the trillion-dollar ranks in August 2024 and is the only non-tech company on the list.

What is market capitalization and what does it mean?

A companys market capitalization is equal to the total value of its outstanding shares. Market cap can be calculated by multiplying a companys stock price by its shares outstanding. For example, a $10 stock with 1 billion shares outstanding would have a market cap of $10 billion.

Market cap is used to measure what a company is worth at a given time.

Here are the largest publicly traded companies and members of the trillion-dollar club.

List of trillion-dollar companies

*Market cap data as of Aug. 29, 2024.

1. Apple (AAPL)

Apple designs and makes a variety of consumer tech products and has one of the best known brands in the world. Apple generated more than $200 billion in iPhone sales during its fiscal 2023 and total sales reached $383 billion. Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway is one of the companys largest shareholders and Buffett has repeatedly praised the tech giants business, though he slashed Berkshires stake in 2024.

Market cap: $3.51 trillion

Stock price: $231.11

2. Microsoft (MSFT)

Microsoft is best known for its suite of software offerings including Microsoft Office. The company generated nearly $212 billion in sales during its 2023 fiscal year. Microsoft closed its $69 billion acquisition of video game maker Activision Blizzard in October 2023. Microsoft is also the largest backer of ChatGPT-owner OpenAI.

Market cap: $3.11 trillion

Stock price: $419.00

3. Nvidia (NVDA)

Semiconductor company Nvidia crossed the trillion dollar mark in May 2023, and quickly climbed to the top spot as investors bid up its shares in anticipation of a sustained boom in AI. Nvidia designs advanced chips that are used in AI systems and its shares are up more than 150 percent in 2024 as of August. It ended 2023 up a remarkable 246 percent from the start of the year. The company generated about $27 billion in revenue during its fiscal 2023 and is expected to top $120 billion in sales in 2024.

Market cap: $3.03 trillion

Stock price: $123.16

4. Alphabet (GOOG and GOOGL)

Alphabet is the parent company of search giant Google and generates the majority of its over $307 billion in revenue from online advertising. Google also has a cloud business, owns YouTube and has a variety of other ventures it classifies as other bets.

Market cap: $2.04 trillion

Stock price: $166.38

5. Amazon (AMZN)

Amazon is the largest online retailer in the world and has also built a sizable cloud business in Amazon Web Services. Amazon generated total sales of roughly $575 billion in 2023, including more than $90.8 billion from AWS. Amazon co-founder Jeff Bezos was the third-richest person in the world as of August 2024, according to Bloomberg.

Market cap: $1.81 trillion

Stock price: $172.58

6. Meta Platforms (META)

Social media giant Meta Platforms rejoined the trillion-dollar club in January 2024, but its no stranger to the list. Meta previously hit a $1 trillion market cap back in 2021, when it was still known as Facebook. Meta generated nearly $135 billion in total revenue in 2023 and its stock share price jumped nearly 189 percent that same year. In addition to being the parent company of Facebook, Meta also owns Instagram and WhatsUp, and is one of several tech giants betting big on artificial intelligence.

Market cap : $1.33 trillion

Stock price: $524.32

7. Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A and BRK.B)

Berkshire Hathaway is the conglomerate run by legendary investor Warren Buffett. The company has interests in a wide array of industries including insurance, railroads, retailing and manufacturing. Berkshires investment portfolio includes stakes in companies such as Apple, Coca-Cola, American Express and Chevron.

Market cap: $1.0 trillion

Stock price: $464.35

Note: Electric-vehicle maker Tesla previously crossed the $1 trillion mark, but its share price has since declined below that level.

Editorial Disclaimer: All investors are advised to conduct their own independent research into investment strategies before making an investment decision. In addition, investors are advised that past investment product performance is no guarantee of future price appreciation.
Former President Trump on Tuesday put the issue of immigration and border security at the center of his pitch to Wisconsin voters, suggesting his anti-immigration policies would boost his standing with key voting blocs.

Trump held a rally in Racine, about 30 miles south of Milwaukee, where Republicans will gather for the GOP convention next month. He opened his remarks by addressing the backlash to his reported comments that Milwaukee was a horrible city during a closed-door meeting with House Republicans.

You know, I love Milwaukee. I was the one that picked Milwaukee, Trump told the crowd.

Wisconsin is poised to play a major role in Novembers election between Trump and President Biden. Trump narrowly won the state in 2016, then lost it to Biden in 2020 by roughly 20,000 votes. A Decision Desk HQ/The Hill average of polls shows Biden leading in Wisconsin by 1 percentage point.

Most of Trumps remarks were focused on immigration, following an announcement from the Biden White House on executive action that would allow certain immigrants lacking documentation who are married to U.S. citizens to stay in the country and work legally.

Crooked Joe is sending a message to the world that he rewards illegal entry, and thats whats happening, Trump said.

Dont kid yourself, the ones that are hurt the most, the Black population, the Hispanic population, he continued. And you know who else is hurt badly? Unions.

Majorities of each of those voting groups backed Biden in 2020. But polling has shown Trump making inroads with Black and Hispanic voters in particular, which could hurt Biden in November.

At one point, as Trump claimed, without evidence, that countries around the world were emptying jails and sending migrants to the southern border, his supporters began chanting, Send them back.

Trump vowed to reverse Bidens immigration measures if he is reelected. He also repeated the claim parroted by many Republicans on Tuesday that Bidens measure was a political ploy to enroll new voters ahead of Novembers election.

Bidens immigration relief: What to know about parole in place expansion

The Biden betrayal is not going to stand. When Im reelected, Joe Bidens illegal amnesty plan will be ripped up and thrown out on the very first day that were back in office, Trump said. Because hes just using that group. But hes going to let everybody come in, because you know what theyre trying to do, theyre trying to sign these people up and register them.

Bidens announcement came as he marked the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program at the White House with immigrant advocacy and Latino leaders.

The expansion of parole in place, as the regularization program is known, will be paired with measures to make the work visa application easier for immigrants living in the country illegally  particularly DACA beneficiaries  who have graduated from U.S. colleges.

Beneficiaries wont receive new privileges; existing paths to regularize their migratory status will be streamlined under the new rules.

To be eligible, prospective parolees must have been in the United States for 10 years as of Monday.

Biden earlier this month took executive action to turn away migrants seeking asylum who cross the southern border illegally at times when there is a high volume of daily encounters.

Folks, Im not interested in playing politics on the border or immigration. Im interested in fixing it, Biden said Tuesday.

Polling has shown immigration is a top issue for many voters ahead of Novembers presidential election, and surveys have consistently showed voters trust Trump more than Biden on the issue.

A Marquette University survey of registered voters nationwide conducted last month found 52 percent said Trump did a better job on immigration and border security, compared to 25 percent who said Biden did a better job.

Democrats on Tuesday ripped Trump over his jobs record in Wisconsin and over reports that hed planned to stay at his Chicago property instead of in Milwaukee during the Republican convention, something Trumps campaign denied.

Donald Trump has made his contempt for Wisconsin well-known, Democratic National Committee spokesperson Addy Toevs said in a statement. Trump presided over the loss of 80,000 jobs for Wisconsin families during his tenure, with at least 1,000 lost in Racine alone, and touted a project that wasted millions in taxpayer dollars for a manufacturing plant he couldnt follow through on. Trump doesnt know  or care  about working Wisconsinites experiences.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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The United States on Monday condemned China over a collision with the Philippines in the disputed South China Sea, the latest in a series of increasingly fraught confrontations that have raised the potential of a flashpoint for global conflict in the vital waterway.

A Chinese vessel and a Philippine supply ship collided near Second Thomas Shoal in the contested Spratly Islands early Monday, according to statements from both nations, which blamed each other for the incident.

Chinas Coast Guard said it took measures including warnings and interceptions, boarding inspections and forced evictions against the Philippine vessels.

China claims indisputable sovereignty over almost all of the South China Sea, and most of the islands and sandbars within it, including many features that are hundreds of miles from mainland China. Multiple governments, including Manila, hold competing claims.

In a post on X, Washingtons ambassador to Manila MaryKay Carlson said the US condemned Chinas aggressive, dangerous maneuvers, which caused bodily injury and damaged Philippine vessels.

Neither the Philippines nor China reported injuries or damage from the collision, which comes just weeks after Philippine President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. warned that the death of any Filipino citizen at the hands of another country in the South China Sea would be very close to an act of war.

Marcos has sought closer ties with the US, which has repeatedly stressed Washingtons ironclad commitment to a 1951 mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines that stipulates both sides would help defend each other if either were attacked by a third party.

The incident Monday is the latest in a string of recent confrontations between Manila and Beijing that have raised concerns among Western observers of potentially developing into an international incident if China, a global power, decides to act more forcefully against the Philippines.

US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Monday the United States stands with its ally the Philippines and condemns the escalatory and irresponsible actions by China.

Meanwhile, Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell on Monday discussed the collision with Philippine Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro.

China had obstructed the Philippines from executing a lawful maritime operation in the South China Sea, interfering with the Philippines freedom of navigation, Campbell said, according to a State Department readout.

The latest incident marks the first run-in between the two countries since a new law in China took effect Saturday to authorize its coast guard to seize foreign ships and detain crews suspected of trespassing for up to 60 days without trial.

The Chinese coast guard on Monday said a Philippine supply ship ignored Chinas repeated solemn warnings and deliberately and dangerously approached a Chinese vessel in an unprofessional manner, resulting in a collision.

The Philippines is entirely responsible for this, the coast guard said in a statement, a charge rejected by the Philippine military as deceptive and misleading.

Instead, Philippine authorities accused Chinese ships of dangerous maneuvers that included ramming and towing of Philippines vessels.

In a statement on X, Philippine army spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the main issue remains to be the illegal presence and actions of Chinese vessels within the Philippines exclusive economic zone, which infringes on our sovereignty and sovereign rights.

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel blocks a Philippine Coast Guard ship on its way to a resupply mission at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea on March 5, 2024. - Adrian Portugal/Reuters

Dangerous and reckless behavior

In 2016, an international tribunal in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines in a landmark maritime dispute, which concluded that China has no legal basis to claim historic rights to the bulk of the South China Sea.

But Beijing has ignored the ruling. Instead it has increasingly pushed its territorial claims in the strategically important and resource-rich waterway. Over the past year China Coast Guard ships  reinforced by maritime militia boats  have been involved in multiple clashes that have damaged Philippine ships and seen Filipino sailors injured by water cannon.

Known as Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines and Renai Jiao in China, Second Thomas Shoal is a submerged teardrop-shaped reef located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the Philippine island of Palawan.

It lies in the Spratly Islands, a mostly uninhabited archipelago where oil and gas reserves have been found, and which is claimed by China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.

The Philippine ship was on a mission Monday to supply its soldiers stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre, a rusting US-built Philippine Navy landing craft that was run aground deliberately in 1999, with a national flag hoisted on board, to assert the Philippines territorial claims over Second Thomas Shoal.

China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu on Monday accused a supply ship and two rubber boats from the Philippines of illegally delivering supplies to the stranded warship.

We once again warn the Philippines: Any form of infringement and provocation is futile. The Chinese Coast Guard is on full alert and ready to resolutely safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, Gan said in a statement.

In a departure from past confrontations with China when his team were quick to issue statements and visuals, Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela provided no comment to CNN on the collision.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines also declined to give details of the latest run-in.

Instead, Philippine officials made broad statements denouncing Chinas actions.

Chinas dangerous and reckless behavior in the West Philippine Sea shall be resisted by the (Armed Forces of the Philippines.) Their behavior contravenes their statements of good faith and decency, said Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr.

We will exert our utmost in order to fulfill our sworn mandate to protect our territorial integrity, sovereignty, and sovereign rights. It should now be clear to the international community that Chinas actions are the true obstacles to peace and stability in the South China Sea.

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Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, said it was 'inconceivable' that Washington was withholding weapons and ammunition at a time of war - Shaul Golan/AFP

The White House reportedly called off a high-level meeting with Israel on Iran after Benjamin Netanyahu publicly accused Washington of withholding arms deliveries.

This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts, a US official told news website Axios after the Israeli prime minister lashed out at his ally in a video, saying it was inconceivable that Washington was withholding weapons and ammunition at a time of war.

The White House expressed surprise at his statement, which came just a week after Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, had offered assurances on the arms supplies issue to the Israeli prime minister during a visit to Jerusalem.

We genuinely do not know what he is talking about, said Karine Jean-Pierre, White House press secretary.

The White House denied that the meeting had been cancelled and insisted it was finalising details.

As we said in the briefing yesterday, we have no idea what the prime minister is talking about, but thats not a reason for rescheduling a meeting, a White House official told The Times of Israel.

We have been working to find a time to schedule the next SDG that accounts for the travel and availability of principals, but have not yet fully finalised the details so nothing has been canceled.

Mr Blinken earlier said that one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs was still under review but everything else was moving as it normally would.

The Americans are fuming. Bibis video made a lot of damage, a senior Israeli official also told Axios, using a widely-used nickname for Mr Netanyahu.

Washingtons annoyance at his public criticisms was said to have been conveyed by Amos Hochstein, an envoy sent to the region this week by Joe Biden, the US president, to try to avert a major conflict on Israels northern border with Lebanon.

Thousands of rockets, anti-tank missiles and explosive drones have been fired into Israel by Lebanon-based Hezbollah since the October 7 attacks, prompting the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to retaliate with strikes against the terror groups commanders.

A recent escalation in the intensity and firepower of the cross-border hostilities has triggered fears of the conflict tipping into a regional war.

On Tuesday, Israel warned Hezbollah of the consequences of an all-out war after the group released a nine-minute video which it boasted was drone footage of Israeli military and civilian locations in several cities, including the key port city of Haifa.

We are very close to the moment of decision to change the rules of engagement with Hezbollah and Lebanon, said Israel Katz, the foreign minister.

In an all-out war, Hezbollah will be destroyed and Lebanon will be severely damaged, he warned.

Major General Ori Gordin, the head of the IDFs northern command, and Major General Oded Basiuk, head of the operations directorate, also revealed that they had approved Lebanon battle plans.

The generals held an assessment, during which operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved, the IDF said in a statement.

Israel has repeatedly said it will not tolerate a situation where tens of thousands of people have been forced to abandon their homes in the north under daily bombardment. Tens of thousands have also fled on the Lebanese side of the border.

Hezbollah has said it will attack the north as long as the war in Gaza continues. A ceasefire deal with Hamas could lead to a diplomatic solution along the Lebanese border. It could also free up more troops for military action there.

On Wednesday, a senior IDF commander operating in Rafah, southern Gaza, told Israels public broadcaster Kan that he believed the ground manoeuvre there would be concluded within a month.

On Sunday, Israels military said there would be a daily pause in its attacks along the road via the Kerem Shalom crossing to allow more humanitarian aid to enter.

However, the United Nations said it has since been unable to distribute aid in the Gaza Strip because of lawlessness and panic among hungry people in the area.

Aid groups also said that the $230 million temporary pier constructed by the US to facilitate aid deliveries has largely failed. It is expected to be dismantled earlier than expected.

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I am ecstatic about all of this, she said after reuniting with her 1979 high school class ring

WAOW via CNN Newsource Nadine Moscinski with her ring

It was a high school reunion of sorts, decades in the making  and one that Nadine Moscinski said she never thought would happen.



Moscinski, now 62, was reunited with her 1979 graduation ring from Stevens Point High School earlier this month when a good Samaritan came across the nostalgic piece of jewelry while walking along the beach at the Vista Royalle Campground in Bancroft, Wisconsin, according to multiple news reports.

Kyle Rasmussen told local TV station WAOW and local Wisconsin outlet OnFocus that he discovered the ring while he and his family was camping at Vista Royale. He noticed the ring glimmering in the sand, according to OnFocus, and picked it up to investigate.



Despite nearly a half century in the sand, the ring was still intact and Rasmussen used the details etched into it to make a public plea on Facebook to track down its owner.



Found this class ring this weekend, Rasmussen posted in a local community group. Stevens Point 1979. Name is Nadine Hopkins. Please tag if you know them.



Just hours after making the post, Rasmussen received a message from Nichole Dusche, Moscinski's daughter.

That ring is my moms! She lost it decades ago. I remember her telling me she lost it at a beach because my dad always had his and she never had hers! Dusche wrote in her message to Rasmussen, according to OnFocus.

Moscinskis daughter connected the two, and Moscinski (nee Hopkins) called Rasmussen, explaining that she lost the ring at the same beach in the 1980.

My family grew up a few miles from the campground, Moscinski told OnFocus. Me and my sister would ride our bikes there just to go swimming. When I lost the ring, I remember telling my sister, Oh my gosh, mom cant find out about this. We made up excuses to go back and search for it. I searched for days, but through the years gave up.

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WAOW reported that the ring is not only still legible, the stone inside of it is still securely in place.



My name is still engraved, Moscinski told TV station WKOW. My maiden name is in there. Its shiny. I dont know how it stayed like this. I couldnt believe the stone didnt just fall out or something.



She said she plans to keep the ring safe by displaying it alongside her late husband Jeffreys 1980 class ring.

I am ecstatic about all of this, she told OnFocus. This is just unbelievable!

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Mumbai: Quota protests in Maharashtra may create a huge Maratha-OBC divide in the state ahead of the Assembly elections. After Maratha activist Manoj Jarange tried to leverage Maratha vote bank, now OBC organisations are up in arms against the Eknath Shinde government over the attempts to include the Maratha community in the OBC category.

While Jarange on Wednesday alleged that the state government is encouraging OBC protests to counter his protests, OBC leaders have sought assurance from the government that OBC reservation will not be diluted by including the Maratha community in the catagory.

The fast by two OBC activists, seeking an assurance that the OBC quota will not be disturbed amid the Maratha reservation demand, entered the seventh day on Wednesday. The doctors, who examined the activists, said that their health has started deteriorating. However, the activists have refused to call off their hunger strike.

Laxman Hake and Navnath Waghmare took a few sips of water, but maintained that they would continue their protest.

Hake and Waghmare have been sitting on their hunger strike at Wadigodri village in Jalna district since June 13. Government medical officer Anil Waghmare said the activist's blood pressure has risen and their blood sugar levels are low. Doctors have stressed that both need to be hospitalized to prevent further health complications.

The OBC activists have demanded scrapping of the government notification regarding Kunbi caste certificates to be given to eligible Marathas. Hake criticised Jarange for his ignorance regarding the complexities of the reservation system. Jarange does not understand the law and reservation system, he said.

Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly and Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar has written a letter to chief minister Eknath Shinde, warning him of the dire situation on the ground between members of the Maratha and Other Backward Caste (OBC) communities. In the lette, The Wadettiwar said that the members of the two groups have stopped interacting with each other.

Jarange alleged that the OBC protests are state sponsored. He said, They also have the right to protest. Let them continue their protests and we will continue ours.
Mumbai: After the poor show in the Lok Sabha election, Maharashtra BJP will decide its road map for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly election on Friday. The party has called a meeting of its core committee at the party headquarter in Mumbai. The core committee will also decide the names for candidates of biennial election for 11 seats of the Maharashtra Legislative Council.

The sources said that the party would contest on five legislative council seats, while its alliance partners Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar led NCP would contest two seats each.

BJP president J.P. Nadda and Union home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday had chaired a meeting in New Delhi with Maharashtra leaders including Devendra Fadnavis, Sudhir Mungantiwar, Chandrashekhar Bawankule among others over the deliberation on the causes of the drubbing in Lok Sabha election.

A Maharashtra BJP leader, who attended the meeting in New Delhi, told this newspaper that they have apprised the Central leaders about reasons behind poor performance in the Lok Sabha election. One of the reasons was the consolidation of scheduled tribes (ST), scheduled castes (SC) and Muslim votes against the BJP-led Mahayuti.

The central leadership has asked the state core committee to chalk out a plan for the Assembly election. We are going to hold a meeting on Friday evening to discuss the strategy for the Assembly election. We will have to focus on our core voters, who are loyal to the party from its inception. We have to pacify our core voters. For this, we will have to accommodate the candidates from the open category in the biennial election of the Council, the BJP leader said.

He also said that the party would contest the upcoming Assembly election in the alliance with Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP. We are not in position to leave our partners so we may have to contest the Assembly election as the Mahayuti, he said.

A leader from the Mahayuti said that each constituent has been asked to focus on its core voters. NCP has secular votes, so Ajit Pawars party is likely to field Muslim and Dalit candidates in the council election in the backdrop of upcoming Maharashtra Assembly election.

We are planning to field sitting MLC Baba Jani Durrani and Siddharth Kamble. Both of them belong to our core voter groups, which have turned their back to the MVA in the Lok Sabha election. We are now pacifying them by giving representation to the Council, an NCP leader said.
What is the real meaning of the mandate of 2024? A Congress leader from Bihar pithily likened it to a game of fencing between the National Democratic Alliance and the INDIA bloc. What the Opposition has done in the sword fighting is that it has succeeded in tearing the lace of the NDAs pyjama, making it most difficult for it to fight, he insisted.

If Prime Minister Narendra Modi concentrates on the tactics with the sword to overpower the opponent, he could face the embarrassment of a lifetime with the pyjama giving way.

So, whether the PM likes it or not, he will be busy in the next five years holding the pyjama in one hand to avert embarrassment and a disaster, the leader remarked, adding that there was no other way. He will have to ignore the sword, for otherwise

The leader, who declined to be named, said that the supreme leader will necessarily take time to understand the meaning of the mandate and by the time that he realised it, he would be holding the pyjama as his instant reaction.

That is what is happening on the ground, at least for the present. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, who had virtually turned into Rip Van Winkle for the past ten years, has suddenly realised that much is wrong in the republic, and especially with those who are running it. It was not expected of the faithful to be arrogant.

Here it is not only arrogance, but the fact that it has been systematically turned into a personality cult, which is so very against the precept of the Sangh. However, the RSS chief has not said so explicitly.

As Mohan Bhagwat is becoming another Anna Hazare, Mr Modi is belatedly realising that he is neither a messiah nor a Vishwa Guru. How can anyone pluck the ear of a Vishwa Guru? And that too in full public view? And that is intended to be that way. To Mr Bhagwat goes the credit of ensuring jor ka jhatka dhire se lage.

For Mr Modi, the RSS chief has ended his Mauni Baba avatar at a most inopportune time. The PM has not been given breathing time after the less-than-good showing of the BJP.

After the 2019 general election, in which the BJP under Mr Modi scored 303 Lok Sabha seats in the back of the Pulwama attack and the Balakot airstrikes, it was said tongue-in-cheek that one person who will now need the maximum security would be the RSS chief. It was meant to imply that Mr Modis victory would further marginalise the RSS and its chief.

So, it goes without saying that the Sangh was waiting for an opportunity. J.P. Naddas statement in the middle of the elections that the BJP does not need the active support of the Sangh in campaigning had already alarmed the Sangh.

Interestingly, the RSS chief has been seen to be extra eager to tell the powers that be that arrogance is not the best policy for any sevak, let alone the first sevak of the country.

Even Prashant Kishor, who found himself in the soup for projecting a comfortable majority to the BJP under Mr Modi, has now changed his tune. Things could become difficult for Mr Modi if the BJP failed to win at least two of the three states going to the polls soon. Maharashtra, Haryana and Jharkhand will hold Assembly elections by the yearend, followed by Delhi in the new year.

When it rains, it pours. This looks to be the fate of the PM whose bhakts used to boast Modi hai to Mumkin Hai. The PM is going overboard to project that nothing has changed, even though it is no longer a Modi government but an NDA one.

Nitish Kumar may show a servile attitude towards the PM. But his secular credentials will be a bother for the BJP to further its brand of Hindutva and its pet themes of the Uniform Civil Code and other contentious issues. Even Nitish Kumars worst detractors from Bihar do not doubt his commitment to secularism.

Nara Chandrababu Naidu is no different, but cannot be seen in Nitishs zealous category. Chandrababu Naidu has learnt to his horror in the past that the minorities could cook his goose, silently. The 74-year-old CMs project to help politically settle his son Nara Lokesh would make him a dependable ally to a certain extent, but the BJP should be seen to help settle his scores against YSR Jaganmohan Reddy. Mr Reddy, the YSRCP chief, is in turn cautioning the BJP that it should not forget he has got 15 MPs -- 4 in the Lok Sabha and 11 in the Rajya Sabha -- when every vote counts in a delicate situation.

Mr Naidu also sees in neighbouring Telangana how the covert or overt bonhomie with the BJP had virtually become a kiss of death for former CM K. Chandrasekhar Rao as the BRS is gradually withering away.

The first Parliament session after the Lok Sabha polls, which will start next week, is expected to see the dawn of a new reality before the PM, sooner than later. Everybody who is anybody in the Opposition space would like to present a bulwark in Parliament and outside against those who have been the bull in the China shop, tearing every tenet in the worlds largest democracy in the past decade.

Inside the BJP, the likes of Yogi Adityanath and Shivraj Singh Chouhan as well as Nitin Gadkari would like to have a place in the sun. Mr Modi is no longer the sun, and could become the setting sun if the RSS decides to intervene effectively to show who is the boss, and helps bring in a new BJP chief not enamoured of the PM.

The INDIA grouping should start scoring the goals/runs like Gundappa Vishwanths late cuts, taking advantage of the pitch made slippery by Mohan Bhagwat and others, and keep aside any internal differences.

The experience so far is that Mr Modi does not know or understand how to deal with a spirited and united Opposition that is sizable in number. The mandate has limited Mr Modis scope for manoeuvre. It has also put him in the dock. Rahul Gandhi and the others should tone down their rhetoric and stop attacks on the RSS for the time being as a tactic. If the INDIA bloc plays its cards well and keeps its ranks intact, the Vishwa Guru will soon realise that his project of an Opposition-mukt Bharat has floundered, rendering him vulnerable.
by Melani Manel Perera

Bishop Fernando received Ranil Wickremesinghe, with whom he discussed topical issues, from the impact of new projects on local fishermen to connections to the Madhu sanctuary. For the president's office, the prelate praised the government's 'efforts'. But there has been no shortage of controversy from part of the Christian community, which accuses the head of state of not doing justice to the victims of the Easter massacre.

Colombo (AsiaNews) - The development of renewable energy projects in Mannar, and the related concerns about possible repercussions on the environment and the health of the population, were at the centre of the meeting between the president and the local bishop.

On the confrontation between Bishop Fidelis Lionel Emmanuel Fernando and Ranil Wickremesinghe, which took place on 17 June in the episcopate, there was no shortage of controversy and perplexity raised by the Christian community: first and foremost, the accusation that the head of state lacked honesty and commitment to ensure justice for the victims of the Easter 2019 attacks. "The bishop should not welcome President Wickremasinghe and bless him," pointed out some believers in the south.

The President's Communication and Media Office (Pmd) reports that Bishop Fernando praised Wickremesinghe for his 'efforts' in economic reform, aimed at 'saving' the country from a long-standing financial crisis.

The meeting also discussed future development plans for the Mannar district, starting with the expansion of Point Pedro and Mullaitivu as primary renewable energy centres. The parties also reportedly emphasised the need to ensure that development activities are carried out or strengthened in full 'respect' for the environment.

The Pmd note goes on to explain that during the discussion, ongoing negotiations for the sale of surplus renewable energy to New Delhi also came up. A feasibility study is currently underway for the creation of a power line connecting Sri Lanka and India, and further discussions are planned during the upcoming visit of the Indian Foreign Minister to Sri Lanka.

The Christian leader and the president then discussed plans for the expansion of Mannar as a tourist hub, including the Mannar Fort to attract cruise tourists. Wickremesinghe also emphasised that these initiatives will lead to extensive growth in all sectors of the region's district in the future, while the prelate addressed the head of state and the government urging them to address the (unresolved) problem of fishermen and the entire fishing industry.

Meanwhile, in a separate meeting addressing the Mannar District Development Committee meeting held at the secretariat, the bishop emphasised that the Madhu pilgrims would be provided with all necessary facilities to carry out their activities.

During the meeting, he ordered the army to clean and develop both sides of the Madhu road to meet the needs of the faithful visiting the church. He also coordinated with a representative of the Bishop of Mannar, the Forest Conservation Department, the Road Development Authority and the police to ensure that these tasks are completed before the upcoming annual festival of Our Lady of Madhu Church.

In spite of the announcements and promises, there was also no shortage of criticism and remarks against the bishop for warmly welcoming the president and giving a religious blessing to a leader who has so far been unwilling to do justice to the Easter victims.

A group of Catholics, questioned by AsiaNews, pointed out that "our Church leaders do the same thing every day, they hold one hand out to political leaders and the other towards us, to console us" but by acting in this way they end up "deceiving us".

Among the critical voices is that of Chirantha Amarasinghe, a young Catholic activist and YouTuber: he phoned the bishop directly, expressing his disappointment and strongly rejecting the welcome given to President Wickremasinghe. And the telephone conversation went viral on social media.
by Nirmala Carvalho

Some members of the Hindu nationalists flaunt the photo of the embrace with the pontiff to acclaim Modi. The opposition retorts: "Where were they when Christians were attacked in Manipur or Fr Swamy died of unjust imprisonment?". The Bishops' Conference on the invitation to visit the country: "Ready to welcome the Pope with enthusiasm".

Mumbai (AsiaNews) - Prime Minister Narendra Modi's embrace of Pope Francis - accompanied by a renewed invitation to visit the country - has become an occasion for political controversy in India still grappling with the dregs of a fiery election campaign that a few days ago saw the Hindu nationalist leader's government reappointed, but with less support than in the two previous rounds.

In Mumbai, Ashish Shelar, a BJP MP, had posters displayed with the image of the embrace between the pope and Modi, extolling the 'mutual love, commitment and respect shown by both' and the prime minister's invitation to the pontiff to visit India.

It was striking that they were also displayed a few metres from the Holy Family Hospital, the one where Jesuit Fr Stan Swamy died three years ago, after nine months of imprisonment on unjust charges on which the government did not want to intervene.

"If Prime Minister Modi, the BJP and Ashish were so concerned and attentive to the Christian community,' replied Varsha Gaikwad, the local Congress MP, the historic party now in opposition, on the social network X, 'where were they when Christians were persecuted in Manipur, 157 churches were destroyed, more than 70 thousand people were forced to leave their homes? Fr. Stan Swamy was denied primary aid, tortured to death in prison, implicated in a court case on false charges - where was your love for Ashish Christians then? When a Christian headmaster was tortured in Pune by Hindu fundamentalists, when they removed the habit from a nun in Assam, when the BJP government purposely stripped most Christian institutions of their FCRA licences to receive funds from abroad where were you?"

"Your love for Christians," he added, "is empty and opportunistic just to secure the votes of the larger Christian community. But people have now realised your hypocrisy'.

In Kerala, on the other hand, an ironic tweet by the Congress caused controversy. Alluding to the aura with which the premier inaugurated the Ram temple in Ayodhya a few months ago, he commented on the photograph of the embrace between Modi and the Pope with the caption: 'Finally the Pope got a chance to meet God'.

The post sparked a huge political controversy in the state, following which the party withdrew it. The BJP claimed that the X account of political opponents 'seems to be run by radical Islamists or Maoist guerrillas'.

The Congress publicly apologised to those in the Christian community who felt 'emotional or psychological distress' over the comment. The party argued that the people of the state clearly know that it is not its tradition to insult and denigrate any religion, priests or religious idols, and no member of the party has ever thought of insulting the pope.

"However, the party does not hesitate to mock PM Narendra Modi, who insults the country's faithful by calling himself God" and his "shameless political games".

Beyond these political controversies, the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) in a note expressed its joy at the premier's renewed invitation to the pope to visit the country. The text recalled that already during a meeting with his president, Archbishop Andrews Thanzhat, Modi had declared last year that he would do so.

"The Catholic Church in India," writes the Bishops' Conference, "looks forward with enthusiasm to the visit of Pope Francis and is already preparing to welcome him with a warm and warm welcome. As for the dialogue between the Catholic Church and the government, the bishops hope that the meeting between Modi and Pope Francis will lead to "greater collaboration on various issues, including social and environmental problems" in the country.

Finally, it must be remembered that during the election campaign, the governor of Goa, who like Modi is also a member of the BJP, had spoken of an invitation to Pope Francis on the occasion of the ten-year exhibition of the relics of St Francis Xavier, which will be held in the southern city from 21 November 2024 to 5 January 2025. Bergoglio has always been very attached to the figure of the great Jesuit missionary. But the Goa appointment is now very close and it should also be borne in mind that the pontiff will already be engaged in September in the long journey that will take him to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore.
Today's news: Putin and Kim will sign a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' in Pyongyang; Religious parties also threaten to leave Netanyahu government over law on how rabbis are chosen; Curfew in Orissa after Hindu fundamentalists attack cow slaughter for Eid; Germany wants to repatriate Afghan asylum seekers via Uzbekistan; Japanese in favour of an 'official' government meeting app.

ECUADOR-CHINA

Ecuador announced the suspension from 1 July of an agreement with China that provided visa-free travel to the South American country for Chinese citizens, citing a 'worrying' increase in irregular immigration. As of 2023, people from China are among the top nationalities of migrants reaching the United States. Ecuador - which, along with Suriname, are the only two American countries that offer visa-free travel to Chinese citizens - has become a departure point for Chinese migrants who then travel north through Central America before entering the United States.

NORTH KOREA-RUSSIA

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un are expected to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty in talks that began today in Pyongyang. The summit meeting followed an official welcoming ceremony held in Kim Il Sung Square. In his opening speech, Putin expressed appreciation for North Korea's support for Russian policies, including Moscow's war on Ukraine.

ISRAEL

Just as the threat of a large-scale conflict also looms on the Northern front with Lebanon, religious parties in Israel are now also threatening to abandon the Netanyahu government. The reason for the clash is the premier's decision to block a bill that would have changed the way rabbis are appointed in local communities. Pointing the finger at the internal divisions within Likud, representatives of Shas made it known that the fall of the executive would now only be a "matter of time".

INDIA

A curfew and internet suspension have been triggered in the coastal city of Balasore, in the Indian state of Orissa, after clashes over allegations of cow slaughter during the Eid celebration by the Muslim community. The clashes - which took place in the afternoon of 17 June - injured at least 15 people, including five policemen, with assaults in several villages on the homes of the Muslim minority, which represents just two per cent of the local population.

GERMANY-UZBEKISTAN-AFGHANISTAN

The authorities in Germany are discussing with those in Tashkent the possibility of repatriating Afghan asylum seekers via Uzbekistan with flights of a private company. As Bloomberg informs, this 'migration pact', which was discussed by a German delegation in May, would prevent Berlin from conducting direct negotiations with the Taliban in Kabul.

JAPAN

According to a poll by the Asahi Shimbun newspaper, the majority of Japanese citizens would not mind a state-supported dating app to encourage marriages against declining birth rates. The nationwide poll found that 54% of respondents were in favour, while 36% were against it. The poll follows the Tokyo metropolitan government's recent announcement that it will launch such an initiative powered by artificial intelligence. Administrators in the capital emphasise credibility and a sense of security for users.

RUSSIA

In the Church of St Nicholas the Wonderworker in Moscow, a 19th century copy of the icon of the Virgin Mary of Vladimir, which had been saved from the destruction of the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in 1931 on Stalin's orders, has been recognised in a corner of the altar and will now be solemnly returned to the cathedral rebuilt in 1997, the seat of the Patriarch of Moscow.
19 June 2024 14:33 (UTC+04:00)

Communities around the world continue to suffer from the effects of climate change.

According to Azernews, the chief negotiator of COP29, Yalchin Rafiyev, said this at the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future".

He noted that the world community does not fulfill the obligations arising from the Paris Agreement regarding the increase in air temperature up to 1.5 degrees: "If we look at the statistics, we will see that according to the World Meteorological Organization, 2023 will be the hottest year during the observation period. was".

According to Y. Rafiyev, the COP29 team intends to organize a seminar in Azerbaijan in the second half of July in order to gather the parties in more informal conditions and discuss the issues of combating climate change.

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19 June 2024 10:19 (UTC+04:00)

The 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future got underway on Wednesday here as a run-up to the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) to be hosted by Azerbaijan.

The event organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center welcomed some 100 participants.

During the first day, discussions will be held across eight panels.

One of the panel discussions will take place in Zangilan district. The event will conclude on June 21.

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19 June 2024 10:35 (UTC+04:00)

The Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC), which operates guided by the eminent Azerbaijani poet and thinker Nizami Ganjavis philosophical thought and progressive ideas, as well as by universal values and principles, has swiftly gained immense relevance and confidence and transformed into one of the worlds leading international institutions in a short span of time.

Azernews reports that President Ilham Aliyev said this in his message to the participants of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future.

The initiatives launched by the NGIC and its new approaches in addressing the pressing issues in the global agenda are commended and highly appreciated in the international arena, added the head of state.

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19 June 2024 10:45 (UTC+04:00)

Today, the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future kicked off in Baku as a run-up to the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) to be hosted by Azerbaijan.

Ilham Aliyev, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, has addressed the participants of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center.

Azernews presents the full speech of the President:

Dear meeting participants,

Dear friends,

I sincerely welcome you at the opening of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center.

The Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC), which operates guided by the eminent Azerbaijani poet and thinker Nizami Ganjavis philosophical thought and progressive ideas, as well as by universal values and principles, has swiftly gained immense relevance and confidence and transformed into one of the worlds leading international institutions in a short span of time.

The initiatives launched by the NGIC and its new approaches in addressing the pressing issues in the global agenda are commended and highly appreciated in the international arena.

For a long time, tackling climate change has remained among the top priority matters in the global agenda. Climate crisis and its consequences, a shared problem for humanity, have hampered countries sustainable development and prosperity, significantly impacting ordinary peoples daily lives and lifestyles.

As you know, late last year, by the unanimous decision of the states worldwide, the Republic of Azerbaijan was honored to be chosen as a host of the 29th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). I wish to state that Azerbaijan is fully vested in the preparations for COP29, and spares no effort to solidify solidarity for a green, fair, inclusive and sustainable world, ensuring positive outcomes for the sake of our planets future.

Our country will seek cooperation with other nations to identify smart solutions in tackling climate change that concerns all of humanity. In the meantime, we are open to engagement with non-governmental organizations and think tanks that are eager to contribute to this cause. In this regard, I highly appreciate the efforts by the Centers valuable members and partners alike in supporting us by sharing their vast knowledge and expertise throughout this 3-day event in Baku and liberated city of Zangilan, with respect to the preparations for COP29.

Despite significant steps taken so far by the international community to prevent global warming, there are still new challenges and aggravating threats ahead of us. Furthermore, it is an already universally recognized reality that we are running out of time to mobilize the international communitys efforts and undertake joint emergency measures and urgent actions to limit global warming to 1,5 C.

The COP29 to be held in Baku will see the talks on agreeing upon a new collective quantified goal on climate finance post-2025. Our ultimate objective is to agree on a new collective quantified goal to address the increasing financial burden faced by developing nations in coping with climate change. This investment in our shared future represents a collective responsibility toward both present and future generations. Azerbaijan will take all the necessary measures to ensure advancing these negotiations in transparency and inclusivity, as well as accelerating the implementation of previous commitments and pledges.

In the meantime, addressing the challenges faced by the Small Island Developing States, which are most impacted by the negative consequences of climate change, will be among priority issues on our COP29 Presidency agenda.

Having assumed the Presidency of this esteemed event, Azerbaijan will spare no effort to foster genuine and result-oriented dialogue with all the parties to advance the COP process, ensure efficient climate action and conclude the COP29 with successful outcomes.

I believe that in the coming days, discussions among NGIC members on mitigation and adaptation, financing, climate change impacts on biodiversity, water and food security, the current state of affairs in food and agriculture sectors, as well as deliberations on such topics as science, technology and innovation will contribute to advancing climate action agenda and making critical decisions for our planet in preparation for COP29.

I extend my best wishes to you and wish the 29th High-Level Meeting every success.

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 19 June 2024

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19 June 2024 11:05 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijan is committed to presenting COP29 in an inclusive, transparent, and fair manner.

According to Azernews, this was said by Mukhtar Babayev, President of COP29, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, at the official opening ceremony of the 29th High-Level Meeting on "The Road to COP29: A Sustainable and Sustainable Future" held in Baku on June 19.

M. Babayev noted that as the COP29 Chairmanship, it is important to hear all opinions and call everyone to find common solutions for climate change.

The minister also briefed on the recent activities of the team as well as meetings held with several organisations.

"During the past months, our team conducted extensive and deep consultations with the leaders of relevant international organizations. These meetings have created new opportunities to raise ambitions and take action."

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19 June 2024 11:28 (UTC+04:00)

The success of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) will not only be the success of Azerbaijan, but this event will strengthen confidence in the COP in general.

According to Azernews, Maria Fernanda Espinosa, the chairperson of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly, said this at a high-level meeting held in Baku on the topic "The road to COP29: Sustainable and sustainable future".

"We have heard the words 'incentive COP', 'inclusive COP', 'financial COP'. In my opinion, these three criteria are the basis of the expected success of COP29", he said.

The chairwoman noted that the participants of the high-level meeting want to be a part of the success of COP29 and become ambassadors.

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 held in Baku in November this year. The decision was made at the COP28 plenary session held in Dubai on December 11 last year. Within the framework of the event, the capital of Azerbaijan will receive about 70-80 thousand foreign guests.

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19 June 2024 12:56 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

We do not consider France's policy in the South Caucasus effective.

Azernews reports that Hikmat Hajiyev, assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration, said this in a statement to journalists.

According to him, this policy of France is harmful and contradicts the peace agenda in the region.

"It does not contribute to the advancement of the peace agenda in the South Caucasus. The normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, especially the results obtained on April 19 regarding the delimitation of the borders, on December 7, the supreme leaders of the two countries The implementation of a policy of militarization in the region in a situation where serious steps are taken towards the peaceful transformation of the South Caucasus as a whole is a serious blow to the normalization process It is a name that will serve as a kind of encouragement. That is why France's policy of militarization, especially the provision of offensive weapons to Armenia, and the expansion of military cooperation between Armenia and France, is a matter of serious concern. We believe that France, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, is a more responsible policy should be implemented".

H. Hajiyev said that Armenia is a state that has invaded and invaded the South Caucasus region.

"This is an experience based on the real policy of Armenia. The people and state of Azerbaijan have also suffered from this. Therefore, the rearming of the occupying-aggressive state and the implementation of the policy of militarization will never happen. in any case, it cannot be considered a responsible policy".

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19 June 2024 13:27 (UTC+04:00)

Millions of people are suffering from rising temperatures and drought.

According to Azernews, the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said this in a video address to the participants of the 29th High-Level Meeting held in Baku on the topic of Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future".

"Climate change is a challenge for health. Climate-related humanitarian emergencies are on the rise. "Climate change contributes to the spread of diseases such as malaria," the head of the WHO said.

He noted that climate action could save millions of lives every year.

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19 June 2024 11:42 (UTC+04:00)

France's militarization policy is a step that will serve to encourage revanchist forces inside Armenia. Therefore, France's provision of offensive and deadly weapons to Armenia and the expansion of the area of Armenian-French military cooperation are a matter of serious concern.

Azernews reports, citing AzerTag that Hikmet Hajiyev, assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, expressed these views in an interview with journalists.

Hikmat Hajiyev also said: "We believe that France, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, should implement a more responsible policy. Especially in international relations, there is such an approach that various restrictions should be applied to the next militarization and militarization programs in relation to states that have invaded and committed aggression. We must take into account that Armenia is a state that has invaded and invaded the South Caucasus region, so the rearmament and militarization policy of the invading and aggressor state is not considered responsible in any case."

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19 June 2024 14:08 (UTC+04:00)

Almost 30 years have passed since the conclusion of the Kyoto Protocol. In retrospect, the present cannot be compared to when the first efforts to curb climate waste began in 1997.

Azernews reports, citing AzerTag that Ismail Serageldin, co-chairman of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center, said these words at the official opening ceremony of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" held in Baku on June 19.

Emphasizing that they are satisfied with Azerbaijan's hosting of COP 29 this year, I. Serageldin said: "We are working closely with our team, we are having discussions. We have seen record heat over 52 degrees in both Pakistan and India, which is incredibly difficult for a human being. In general, the issues of global warming and climate change are very serious problems for all mankind.

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19 June 2024 16:32 (UTC+04:00)

First Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel-General Karim Valiyev, has started his visit to Serbia at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Serbia, Colonel-General Milan Moysilovic, Azernews reports, citing the Defence Ministry of Azerbaijan

First, the monument of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was visited, a wreath was placed in front of it, and his memory was commemorated in Tasmaydan Park located in Belgrade. Then the statue of Serbian poet and writer Milorad Pavic was visited, flowers were placed in front of it, and respect was shown.

The official welcoming ceremony of the Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel-General Karim Valiyev, was held at the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Serbia. After the ceremonial passage in front of the honor guard, the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Serbia were played.

Colonel-General K. Valiyev had a meeting with his Serbian counterpart.

At the meeting, the prospects for the development of military cooperation were discussed, a wide range of opinions were exchanged on a number of issues of mutual interest.

After the dinner, Colonel-General K. Valiyev met with Bratislav Gasic, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Serbia. During the meeting, discussions were held on cooperation between the two countries in the fields of military, military-technical, and military education.

It should be noted that Kamil Khasiyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Serbia, also participated in the meetings.

The visit of the Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijani Army to Serbia continues.

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19 June 2024 16:27 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

Regarding the claim that the policy of mass armament is the sovereign right of Armenia, let us note that it should be known to everyone why these steps taken by Armenia are illegitimate and pose a threat to our country.

According to Azernews, this was stated in the statement of the press secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Aykhan Hajizade on the statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia dated June 19.

It was noted that for 30 years, it was Azerbaijan that grossly violated the norms and principles of international law, violated the Alma-Ata declaration, which it repeatedly refers to today, committed aggression against the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan, continued its territorial claims against its neighbors, and carried out its aggressive actions. As a result of the steps taken, the creation of the image of Armenia as a peaceful country is a political manipulation.

"It would be better if the Armenian side, which refers to territorial integrity based on the borders of 1991 and the Alma-Ata declaration, does not comply with these agreements in the last 30 years, refuses to accept the borders reflected in the Soviet maps, and occupies the territories of Azerbaijan.

It is absurd for Armenia, which does not recognize any borders, to present the positions occupied by Azerbaijani soldiers after 30 years as the territories of their villages without delimitation and to accuse Azerbaijan of occupation.

It is clear that countries like France, which supposedly support peace and are competing in supplying Armenia with lethal offensive weapons, contrary to Armenia's statements aimed at increasing its defense capabilities, serve to turn Armenia into a new source of tension and threats. Considering that this policy contributes to the next possible aggression of Armenia, it is important to refrain from these steps before it is too late.

The main condition for the signing of a real and lasting peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia is the Armenian Constitution, which clearly refers to the Act of Independence of Armenia, which calls for the "unification of Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh", and an end to the ongoing territorial claims against Azerbaijan, which are established in numerous legal and political documents of this country. ", the statement emphasized.

A. Hajizadeh added that the logic of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia that this problem can be ignored shows that this country is not interested in sustainable peace and is only trying to keep this situation as a backup option to start aggression against Azerbaijan again in the future: "Taking into account the mentioned , there is no moral reason to doubt the sincerity of this country in the peace process. We declare once again that the insidious policy of Armenia in the direction of creating new tension and hindering peace and stability will not bring any results instead of manipulative ideas, it should adhere to international obligations in deeds and not in words and contribute to the peace process".
19 June 2024 21:42 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

They talked about the activities of the Baku Initiative Group (BIG) in Kenya to combat neo-colonialism.

According to Azernews, Kenyan state television has prepared a report on the activities of the NTC and the issues raised by the initiative group in the fight against decolonization and human rights in New Caledonia and other colonies.

The report mentions that BIG called on France to stop the policy of neo-colonialism and ensure the right of self-determination of the Kanak people. At the same time, NGO representatives continue to present the real situation regarding these issues to the international community.

"BTQ has already held a number of international events on the political, economic and cultural consequences of colonialism in New Caledonia and other French colonies. During the discussions, the issue of unfair distribution of natural resources was raised," said a report by Kenyan state television.

Before that, a hybrid conference called "Decolonization, international diplomacy and the role of communication in the modern world" was held in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, with the support of BTQ .

About 30 representatives of Azerbaijani and Kenyan mass media, leaders and members of the national independence movement, and political parties of New Caledonia and French Guiana, which suffered from French colonialism, took part in the conference.

At the conference, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Caledonia, Mikael Forrest, the President of the Movement for Social Freedom and Decolonization of French Guiana, Maurice Pindar, the member of the international section of the MDES movement from French Guiana, Dominique Montet, expressed their views on the latest events in Caledonia and answered the questions of journalists.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), Abbas Abbasov, spoke at the event. actively works to end colonialism in the world in the 21st century, contributes to the decolonization process by establishing:

"BTQ, a non-governmental organization established within the framework of the movement with the participation of representatives of peoples suffering from colonialism, supports the fair struggle of peoples who wish to be freed from colonialism based on the norms and principles of international law. Our organization constantly brings the current situation in the colonies to the attention of the world community through international platforms in the relevant institutions of the UN, including the Human Rights Council, as well as the Parliamentary Network of the Non-Aligned Movement, represented by the Non-Aligned Movement and other relevant organizations, and this activity is developing on a rising line.

BTQ was established on July 6, 2023, by the participants of the "Complete elimination of colonialism" conference within the framework of the ministerial meeting of the Coordination Bureau of the Non-Aligned Movement held in Baku under the chairmanship of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

BTQ supports the struggle for freedom of peoples living in different regions of the world who are still suffering from colonialism in the 21st century.

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19 June 2024 20:43 (UTC+04:00)

Fatima Latifova Read more

The fifth meeting of the EU-Azerbaijan Security Dialogue was held on 13 June in Brussels.

According to Azernews, the participants had an open and frank exchange on the state of the bilateral relations between the EU and Azerbaijan, as well as on topical foreign and security policy issues of mutual interest.

The participants also touched upon the process of normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as broader regional security issues. In this context, the importance of fostering regional stability and sustainable connectivity were mentioned. Azerbaijan underlined the bilateral nature of dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The EU stressed its continued support for the peace process, with a view to a secure, stable, peaceful and prosperous South Caucasus for the benefit of all people living in the region.

The role of Azerbaijan as a reliable and important energy partner and its importance in the further development of the Middle Corridor was highlighted.

The EU's support for humanitarian demining and mine victim assistance in Azerbaijan was appreciated. It was stated that under the EU Team Europe Initiative and other programs, further assistance to Azerbaijans mine action program will continue. The Azerbaijani side also reiterated its interest in exploring possible cooperation with the EU under the European Peace Facility (EPF).

In conclusion of the meeting, the EU and Azerbaijan agreed to continue regular exchanges on foreign and security policy issues. They also underlined the importance of meaningful work on all relevant strands of bilateral cooperation under the EU-Azerbaijan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.

The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Enrique Mora, Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs at the European External Action Service, and Mr. Hikmet Hajiyev, Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

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19 June 2024 20:50 (UTC+04:00)

Ulviyya Shahin Read more

The next conference of the Baku Initiative Group dedicated to the fight against colonialism will be held tomorrow, June 20, at the UN headquarters in New York.

Azernews reports that the conference will take place within the framework of the annual meeting of the Special Committee - C24, created in connection with the implementation of the UN Declaration on the granting of independence to the countries and peoples under colonial rule.

At the Conference entitled "Towards Independence and Fundamental Freedoms: The Role of the C24 Committee in Ending Colonialism", French and Dutch colonial territories, as well as Corsica, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Maohi Nui (French Polynesia), Kanaki (New Caledonia), as well as St. - Martin, Bonaire, as well as more than 40 officials, leaders of independence movements, decolonization experts, MPs and researchers from the USA, France, Brazil, the Gambian Islands Union and the Netherlands.

Unlike the international conferences organized by the Baku Initiative Group before, this event will include the participation and speech of representatives from St. Martin and Bonaire, which are the colonies of the Netherlands, for the first time.

At the conference, the foreign minister of New Caledonia will inform the world community about the latest events in his country, including the atrocities committed by the French government against the Kanak people.

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19 June 2024 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in North Korea for a state visit, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.

The Russian president visited Pyongyang for the first time in 24 years.

Kim Jong Un cordially invited the Russian president after Kim visited Russia last September.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met Putin at the plane ramp and walked along a red carpet lined with soldiers of the honor guards prepared by the North Korean regime. They began speaking to each other immediately after Putins landing at the Pyongyang International Airport.

The two leaders will discuss further cooperation on a two-day trip in the wake of their meeting last September in Russia.

Furthermore, Russia and North Korea will sign a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement at the highest level during the trip, according to Russias presidential order.

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19 June 2024 10:36 (UTC+04:00)

The Swedish parliament approved the defense agreement signed with the United States in 2023.

According to Azernews, 266 out of 349 deputies voted in favor of the bill.

The agreement, signed in December 2023, allows US armed forces access to 17 Swedish military bases, as well as the storage of weapons and ammunition on the country's territory.

Opponents of the law claim that this agreement will allow the storage of nuclear weapons on Swedish territory. During the discussion, several deputies proposed to ban the storage of nuclear weapons on the territory of the country.

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19 June 2024 13:49 (UTC+04:00)

Hungary and Slovakia have expressed their readiness to support Mark Rutte's candidacy for the position of the next Secretary General of NATO. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who until now was against the appointment of his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte as the head of NATO, finally decided to support his candidacy after receiving the necessary guarantees.

According to Azernews, after receiving the support of the majority of NATO members, including the United States, Mark Rutten is expected to replace Jens Stoltenberg from Norway in the post of Secretary General of this organization by the end of the year.

"I think it is clear that we are approaching a decision within the Alliance. In my opinion, this is good news," said Jens Stoltenberg during a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington.

"Mark Rutte has confirmed that if he comes to this position, Hungary will not be obliged to participate in the activities of the North Atlantic Alliance in Ukraine, and considering this obligation, Hungary is ready to support him," Viktor Orban said. This green light from Budapest paved the way for Mark Rutten to replace Jens Stoltenberg, whose mandate will end on October 1.

Slovakia, which has not officially announced its decision yet, has also given the green light. Thus, Slovak President Peter Pellegrini also announced that he supports Mark Rutte's candidacy.

Romania, which presented its candidate in the form of former president Klaus Iohannis, is the last member not to express its support.

Turkey announced the agreement back in April. As for Klaus Iohannis, he should announce his withdrawal soon, according to NATO diplomats, while Romania is silent for now.

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19 June 2024 15:17 (UTC+04:00)

The F-16 fighter jets given to Kyiv by the USA will be deployed on the territory of Ukraine.

Azernews reports, citing TASS that Jake Sullivan, the assistant of the US president for national security, said this in an interview with the PBS TV channel.

"The plan is that F-16s will be deployed in Ukraine. The bilateral security agreement signed by President Biden and President Zelensky underscores this point: we want to help Ukraine achieve these capabilities. These tools should be placed in Ukraine," he said.

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Belfast Whiskey Week  sponsored by ABL Group  will see 100 events taking place across the city over nine days, between July 19 and July 27.

It showcases the best of Irish whiskey, along with Scottish drams and spirits from across the globe.

The programme includes whiskey tastings, cocktail events, theatrical experiences, distillery tours, sensory and fine dining experiences, exclusive dining and drink collaborations Belfast bars and restaurants, heritage walking tours and food pairing sessions.

Festival venues include The Duke of York, The Deers Head, Angel & Two Bibles, Holohans Pantry, Dark Horse, Maddens, The Morning Star, Hearth and Trademarket.

Watch: Which NI celebrity's whiskey is the best - Frampton, Armstrong or Cave?

Belfast Whiskey Week is delighted to welcome ABL Group as festival sponsors and is proud to partner with Whiskey Club NI, Echlinville Distillery, The Friend at Hand and the Duke of York, Urban Bar, Serac Ice and Three Cents to deliver Irelands largest whiskey festival, it says.

We are proud to announce details of the sixth Belfast Whiskey Week, Irelands largest whiskey festival, Paul Kane, festival director, said.

Over the years, we are pleased to play our part in creating an annual event for those with an interest and taste for all things whiskey, as well as to help open up conversations with audiences new to whiskey or who have considered it not for them.

Belfast city is steeped in whiskey heritage and legacy spanning 300 years and its important to recognise and celebrate that. We look forward to providing a very warm welcome to attendees across the nine-day event and hope they enjoy the wide range of unique and different whiskey experiences.

For a full list of events taking place visit www.belfastwhiskeyweek.com
Alleged NI victim of domestic abuse waited until partner was sleeping before stabbing him to death'
A number of fish kills have been reported in recent weeks

There has been a fish kill in a NI river. Credit: Getty Images (Stock image)

A fish kill has been detected in a Co Antrim river, officials have confirmed.

The Department of Agriculture, the Environment and Rural Affairs said it had received a call alerting them to the situation on Wednesday afternoon.

"At 12.50pm on June 18, NIEA (Northern Ireland Environment Agency) received an anonymous call reporting dead fish in the Ballymoney River, said a spokesperson.

"An investigating officer was sent to the site to confirm the report and to assess the environmental impact. A fishkill has been confirmed and a potential source has been identified. Samples have been collected in accordance with procedure and the investigation is ongoing.

"If anyone wishes to report incidents of water pollution they can do so by phoning the Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

It is the latest in a number of fish kills reported in recent weeks.

More than a thousand brown trout were killed in the Four Mile Burn, a tributary of the Six Mile River close to Doagh in Co Antrim on May 19. The incident is understood to have been farm-related.

More than 300 fish were then killed in a pollution incident in the Skeoge River in Bridgend, Co Donegal, close to the border with Co Londonderry. The incident is being probed by Inland Fisheries Ireland.

A further kill occurred on Antrims Glenavy River on June 13 when around 30 dead fish were identified. Local anglers raised concerns that the number could reach 200 or 300 on that stretch of river.

Three days later, a pollution incident on the River Roe at Burnfoot resulted in more than 700 dead fish floating on the surface of the water.

The kill was confirmed by the Loughs Agency, who said the main River Roe remains unaffected.

Ulster Angling Federation (UAF) chair Gary Houston said the incidents highlighted a need for urgent action.

"These incidents highlight the lack of environmental protection and the need to prevent pollution to safeguard aquatic ecosystems and wildlife, he said.

Fish kills were being driven by a number of factors including chemical pollution, agricultural run off, sewage spills and discharge overflows from NI Water.
DAERA have thanked the members of the public who stayed with the animals

DAERA officials had to wade out several hundred metres into Lough Foyle for the rescue

Environment officers spent around half an hour trying to re-float two dolphins that had been beached on the north coast during a dramatic rescue on Monday evening.

The dolphins, which had been stranded at Balls Point beach in Co Derry, were discovered by a mother and her daughter who were out for a walk at the time.

They initially informed animal charity Dog Leap, who contacted the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) and the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

A Department spokesperson said the rescue operation had been complex, but ultimately successful.

"DAERAs Marine Conservation team responded to calls from the public about live stranded dolphins near Balls Point, Lough Foyle on Monday June 17, they said.

On arrival, two adult Rissos dolphins were found alive but stranded on the foreshore.

Rissos dolphins are rarely encountered in Northern Ireland waters, as their preferred habitats are deeper, offshore waters.

Several members of the public kept the dolphins cool with seawater after alerting British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) and DAERA of the incident.

DAERAs officers assessed the breathing rates and condition of the dolphins to determine which animal was the most suitable candidate for refloating.

"The younger dolphin had a more normal breathing rate and a healthier body weight and so a tarpaulin was used to support it and move it into deeper water first.

Both animals were safely refloated

Officials had to wade out into the lough for several hundred metres in order to successfully release the younger dolphin.

"Given how expansive the shallow part of the lough was at this location, officers had to wade out for several hundred metres to access a sufficient depth of water to release the animal safely, they said.

"Initially, the refloated dolphin was largely immobile having lost much of its dexterity due to muscle stiffening when stranded ashore .

"The dolphin was supported in the water for almost 30 minutes and righted several times when it listed onto its side, causing its blowhole to become submerged.

"Eventually it began sweeping its tail and swimming slowly forward, occasionally in circles and needing to be redirected.

"With the assistance of the incoming tide, an attempt was then made to rescue the older, thinner dolphin. This animal was noticeably underweight and heavily scarred after years of interacting with other dolphins and feeding on squid.

"To everyones surprise, it recovered faster than the younger dolphin and quickly joined the first animal. Both dolphins were then monitored as they swam together nearly a kilometre offshore toward deeper water.

Beaching of whales and dolphins has previously occurred on Lough Foyle, and the Department said they would continue to monitor the area for further incidents.

"Sadly, only a minority of live stranded whales, dolphins or porpoises are successfully refloated as many animals have unseen, underlying health issues and so DAERA and BDMLR will monitor the area for any further re-stranding of the dolphins, said a spokesperson.

"Our thanks to the members of the public who reported the sightings and the stayed with them.

"Live stranded whales, dolphins or porpoises should be reported to British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) on 01825 765546 as they are the lead organisation responsible for assessing and rescuing these marine mammals.

BDMLR with Irish Whale and Dolphin Group are currently funded by a DAERA Environment Fund grant to facilitate this work.
Warm weather is set to come to Northern Ireland this week. Photo by Philip Magowan/Press Eye

Temperatures are set to soar above 20 degrees in Northern Ireland next week as summer looks set to finally arrive.

June has so far seen chilly conditions, with temperatures dropping down to single figures and the low teens.

The UK experienced its coolest first 10 days of June since 2020, in contrast to the hottest June on record, seen this time last year, where the mercury rose as high as 32.2C in Lincolnshire and Surrey.

However, warmer conditions should arrive next week with the Met Office predicting temperatures of 22C in Northern Ireland.

The mini-heatwave will build up gradually over the next few days as Thursday will see highs of 20C, before Mondays high of 22C.

The Met Office also predicted that temperatures will remain in the low 20s on Tuesday with bright sunny spells. UV levels are also expected to be high during the warmer weather.

The forecaster said the weather across Northern Ireland on Wednesday afternoon will remain dry with some good sunny spells and highs of 20C.

News Catch Up: Wednesday 19th June 2024

Thursday morning will see some light showers but these will be replaced by warm and sunny spells.

Cloudy weather has been predicted for this weekend before making way for the hotter temperatures.

The Met Office said conditions will be predominantly fine and settled between Sunday and Tuesday.

For much of the country turning much warmer than we have seen in recent weeks, said the meteorological service.

At first, some thicker cloud could bring some outbreaks of mostly light rain, this mainly affecting western, especially northwestern areas.

However, for most, it will be dry throughout and likely to turn increasingly warm as we move into next week.

There is a chance that this could persist for much of the rest of the period, turning increasingly hot, however by mid-next week we see a large range of outcomes.

Some of which allow for a return of much cooler conditions and northerly winds for the latter part of next week. However, the trend toward much warmer conditions is preferred for now.

The rest of the UK will also see more summer-like conditions this week and next week.

The Met Office said temperatures could reach as high as 24C in south-east England and 20C in Scotland by Friday.

Oli Claydon, spokesman for the Met Office, said: As we progress through June, obviously the temperatures are going to generally increase on average anyway, but it will feel more summer-like, especially in the sunshine.

The absence of wind over the next couple of days will help as well.
A man has been charged after seven reports of shotgun cartridges being left outside properties in a Co Down housing estate.

The shotgun cartridges were left outside the homes of new residents and those due to have new tenants in the Weavers Grange, Newtownards on Tuesday.

The 36-year-old man was charged with intimidation and possessing ammunition without a certificate.

He is due to appear in Newtownards Magistrates Court today.

A number of items were taken away following the search for further examination.

Police said they believe the shotgun cartridges were an attempt to intimidate and control the new tenants.

A police spokesperson urged anyone with information surrounding the incident to come forward.

Our enquiries are continuing and we would continue to appeal to anyone with any information in relation to the ongoing investigation, to contact police on 101 quoting reference number 946 20/02/24, you can also submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.

Last year, the estate was at the centre of a loyalist paramilitary feud sparked in March when the South East Antrim UDA said they had expelled members living in Newtownards.

The move left those members without the support of the paramilitary group, but the deposed loyalists refused to leave, saying they would be operating as the Real UFF.

The gang had clashed with a rival UDA faction and homes and businesses were attacked.

Local people say the gang manipulated the housing system, sending fake death threats to gain intimidation points and push them to the top of the list so they would be allocated homes in the newly-built estate.

Around 30 families fled the area during the feuding, with an almost constant police presence for weeks on end.

In April around 50 people took South East Antrim UDA murals down from walls in the estate.

A number of people have been charged in connection with the gathering, while local women also organised street protests demanding those involved in criminality leave the area.

Senior judge Mark Hamill was also targeted, his name painted alongside crosshairs on the exterior wall of Newtownards Courthouse where cases against the rival gangs were being heard.

Last October, an attempt to allocate some of the empty houses in Weavers Grange to families on the housing list was abandoned after threatening graffiti appeared on the walls of the empty homes.

Clanmil Housing Association, who own the estate, initiated legal action against two individuals  linked by police to the feud  for breach of their tenancy agreements.

Those orders were granted and the two tenants given six weeks to vacate the properties. The orders were enforced in November 2023.

News Catch Up: Wednesday 19th June 2024
A man in his 20s was arrested on Wednesday

Police investigating the attempted murder of a man in Co Down in April have made an arrest.

Brian McCourt (40) was left in critical condition after being shot in the abdomen during the incident in the Rathfriland Road area of Banbridge on April 12 this year.

A man in his 20s has been arrested in connection with the incident following a search on Wednesday.

Detective Inspector Handley said: Officers conducted a search at residential premises in the Dromara area of County Down on Wednesday June 19 as part of the ongoing investigation following the shooting of a man in his 40s in the abdomen by a masked man in a car park at around 8pm on Friday April 12.

Read more Banbridge gunshot victim a close friend of suspected crime gang hitman

Following the search, a man in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. He was subsequently released on police bail pending further enquiries.

A subsequent search was conducted by officers at a property in the Hillsborough area on Wednesday 19th June. A number of items were seized during the incident.

To date, we have made four arrests as part of this ongoing investigation. Three men aged 46, 39 and 34 years old who were previously arrested remain on police bail as enquiries continuing.

We continue to appeal for information in relation to this investigation and we would be keen to hear from anyone who may be able to assist, to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference number 1683 12/04/24.

"We would especially like to hear from anyone who may have any CCTV, dash-cam or mobile footage of what happened. This information could greatly help with our enquiries.

"Information can also be given anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. You can submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.
The return parade makes its way past the Ardoyne shops towards the finishing point on October 1, 2016. Pic: Kevin Scott/Presseye

A fresh row has broken out over a Twelfth parade at a north Belfast interface after claims that a peace deal from 2016 was breaking down.

The Crumlin Road interface was once notorious as the scene of sectarian clashes each July, that would last for days and cost millions to police.
Pat Cullen is standing for Sinn Fein in Fermanagh and South Tyrone (Lucy North/PA)

Sinn Fein General Election candidate Pat Cullens failure to condemn the Omagh and Enniskillen bombings has been described as nauseating.

The former Royal College of Nursing chief executive was challenged by the UUPs Diana Armstrong to condemn the atrocities during a BBC interview with the Fermanagh and South Tyrone candidates.
Eamon Ryans resignation as Green Party leader will not destabilise the coalition Government nor change the timing of the next general election, the Taoiseach and Tanaiste have said.

The Environment Ministers announcement that he will step down as party has prompted speculation of an early general election.

However, Simon Harris, the Taoiseach, moved to end the speculation, saying Mr Ryans decision does not alter plans to have the Government serve its full term.

Mr Ryan made the shock announcement on Tuesday, but will remain in place until his party elects his successor.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan announced he would step down as leader of the Green Party (Evan Treacy/PA)

Minister for Children Roderic OGorman and Minister of State Pippa Hackett announced their plans to run in the leadership contest.

Speaking in Clones, Co Monaghan, Mr Harris described his Government partner as a politician of real substance that has made a lasting impact in Ireland.

I am conscious that he intends to continue to serve until the next general election. I look forward to working with him, Mr Harris added.

Obviously over the next few weeks, its a matter for the Green Party to chose who their next leader is, and I wish them well with that process.

From a Government point of view, the Government continues. There is a programme for government, its between three parties, not any individual.

Its a programme that was hard negotiated over a long period of time. My commitment as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael, I believe the commitment of all parties in Government now is to keep getting on with the peoples business.

I dont think it in any way alters the thinking on the timing of the next general election.

Micheal Martin, the Tanaiste, took a similar stance on the future of the current Government, saying it will go full term.

He made the comments as he attended the completion of phase two of the restoration of the Ulster Canal.

The restoration of the disused water link is a flagship north-south infrastructure project.

Mr Martin said: In terms of the Government and its cohesion, one of the reasons we are here is to reflect.

Today is a manifestation of the cohesion and the capacity of this Government to deliver on the programme for government and the shared island initiative is one of those initiatives and it has delivered this wonderful facility here.

The Government is about the programme for government. Eamon Ryans entitled to make a decision to retire as leader of the Green Party, and ultimately not contest the next general election.

Yesterday, I paid tribute to Eamons contribution to Irish public life and, in particular, he has fundamental beliefs which he has stood by over many decades and has made a lasting impact.

This Government again has been very strong in terms of addressing the climate issues, the biodiversity issues in a way that I would argue previous governments have not been able to do and weve had resources to be able to do a lot in terms of retrofitting and public transport.

The remaining part of the Government is we go full term.

Referring to former Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkars resignation from the party in April, Mr Martin said it hasnt destabilised the Government.
A minister who comforted the late Queen in her final days and supported the royal family following her death has said he feels honoured to be recognised by the King.

Rev Kenneth MacKenzie has been made a Lieutenant of the Royal Victorian Order (LVO) in recognition of his distinguished personal service to the monarch and members of the royal family.

The minister of the Parish of Braemar and Crathie in Aberdeenshire is a member of the Chapel Royal and has provided pastoral and spiritual support to the royals since 2005.

Members of the royal family worship at Crathie Kirk while they are staying at nearby Balmoral Castle  a haven that was loved by Queen Elizabeth II and her husband the late Duke of Edinburgh.

Mr MacKenzie, a domestic chaplain, was on hand to comfort the family following the Queens death at Balmoral in September 2022.

Speaking for the first time since being named in the Kings Birthday Honours, he said: I am honoured to have been awarded this recognition directly by His Majesty the King.

Crathie Kirk is situated near Balmoral in Aberdeenshire (Jane Barlow/PA)

In making this presentation, he, and by extension other members of the royal family, has once again publicly acknowledged and expressed his gratitude for the prayerful pastoral support that has been offered to him and the family by the church and in particular by the Chapel Royal in Scotland down through the ages, and especially in recent years.

These awards are only ever given to individuals, but in every case the recipient has always represented a much wider body.

At the time of the late Queens death in Balmoral, I was the chaplain most closely engaged with the royal family and was simply being and doing what any of my colleagues would be and do in any similar situation.

Mr MacKenzie ministered to the Queen in her final days and was part of the funeral cortege from Balmoral to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.

He and other members of the Chapel Royal also kept watch over her coffin while it lay at rest in the palace and later at St Giles Cathedral.

Royal chaplains supported the royal family throughout the period of mourning and Mr MacKenzie played an official role during a service at St Georges Chapel at Windsor where the late Queen was laid to rest.

Charles and Camilla leaving a service at Crathie Kirk last September to mark the first anniversary of the death of the late Queen (PA)

There are 10 chaplains to the King in Scotland and each normally holds office until the age of 70.

The role dates back to the 15th century and members of the Chapel Royal take part in formal state occasions and conduct services at significant national events.

Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, represented the King as Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland last month and paid tribute to the Chapel Royal.

He said: For my own part, I want to pay personal tribute to the chaplains of the Chapel Royal, and especially those here in Scotland.

There have been moments recently when I feel I have been lucky to have sensed Gods care and love. Who can forget the scenes that followed the passing of my mother?

The outpouring of emotions, the demonstration of respect, love and grief was overwhelming and a privilege to experience and behold.

I think I can speak for my whole family when I say that we will remain forever grateful for that support.

Coming so soon after the passing of my father, which of course happened while we were still under pandemic restrictions, made everything far more emotional.

I was really touched and comforted by the manner in which the chaplains made us all feel behind closed doors and away from the public gaze and scrutiny.

The Royal Victorian Order was established by Queen Victoria in 1896 as a personal award to recognise distinguished personal service to the monarch and their household.
Daniel Formentin, left to right, Zosia Lewis and Leonorah Ward were appearing at Westminster Magistrates Court (Charlotte Coney/PA)

Three pro-Palestine protesters have avoided jail after demonstrating outside the house of Sir Keir Starmer.

Leonorah Ward, 21, of Leeds, Zosia Lewis, 23, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and Daniel Formentin, 24, of Leeds, hung a banner outside the London property that read, Starmer stop the killing, surrounded by red handprints, on April 9.

They also placed four rows of childrens shoes in front of the property to signify the young people killed in Gaza.

The trio were found guilty under Section 42 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 after a one-day trial at Westminster Magistrates Court.

Zosia Lewis, left to right, Leonorah Ward and Daniel Formentin were appearing at Westminster Magistrates Court (Charlotte Coney/PA)

They were each sentenced to six weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay 200 in legal costs.

District Judge Michael Snow said he could understand why politicians are so fearful given the number of attacks on our democracy.

The person who resides here is a senior politician, he continued.

In the last two years, two Members of Parliament have been murdered.

Anyone in that situation being aware that there were protesters directly outside their home is likely to be caused distress.

It is laughable to assert to the contrary.

The protesters were representing the group Youth Demand, which describes itself as a new youth resistance campaign fighting for an end to genocide.

Rows of childrens shoes were placed outside Sir Keir Starmers house in London as part of the protest (Youth Demand/PA)

Giving evidence at the trial, Sir Keirs wife Victoria said she felt a bit sick when she encountered the trio at her home, and drove around the corner in her car.

I felt apprehensive and uncomfortable, she added.

The judge said Lady Starmer had been a compelling and persuasive witness.

Asked by Andrew Morris, defending, if she knew it was a peaceful protest, Lady Starmer said: It would look like a peaceful protest if it hadnt been outside my home.

Section 42 powers cover the harassment of a person at their home address if an officer suspects it is causing alarm or distress to the occupant.

Formentin told the court he targeted Sir Keir because he believed the Labour leader was not accurately representing the country over the conflict.

There is an overwhelming sense that young people in this country do want a ceasefire in Palestine, he claimed.

Marketing consultant Formentin, who wore a keffiyeh pattern scarf, said the protesters had taken as many steps as we could to mitigate any threat, and had no plans to confront anyone.

Put to him by the prosecution that they still would have been intimidating and threatening, Formentin replied: No.

Fellow defendant Lewis said: We werent planning on staying there the whole day.

We didnt want to scare anyone.

Lewis, left to right, Ward and Formentin hung a banner outside Sir Keirs house during their protest (Youth Demand/PA)

Ward told the court she didnt take the action lightly and that steps had been taken to ensure the address of the residents was not revealed.

A police sergeant who responded to the demonstration told the court that holding the protest outside somebodys house  instead of outside the House of Commons or Sir Keirs offices  was inappropriate.

Delivering his sentence, Judge Snow said the trio had been directed to leave the premises but had continued regardless.

The group was just trying to shout more loudly by picking the Starmer home as a protest location, he added.
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said his party acted swiftly to suspend a candidate accused of sharing pro-Russian content. (Jane Barlow/PA)

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said his party had taken swift action to suspend a candidate accused of unacceptable pro-Russian posts on social media.

Andy Brown was dropped as the partys candidate in the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East constituency following reports he shared content which played down the countrys role in the Salisbury poisonings.

Reports suggest he shared an article from Russian state media outlet RT which claimed the toxin used in the poisonings was never produced in Russia, but was in service in the US, UK and other Nato states.

But the candidate told the BBC he did not make the social media posts.

Dawn Sturgess, 44, died after being exposed to the nerve agent Novichok, which had been left in a discarded perfume bottle in Amesbury, Wiltshire, in July 2018.

It followed the attempted murders of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia and ex-police officer Nick Bailey, who were poisoned in nearby Salisbury in March that year.

All three survived, as did Ms Sturgesss boyfriend, Charlie Rowley.

Speaking to the PA news agency during a General Election campaign visit, Mr Sarwar said: Weve taken swift action. New information came to light to us last night and within hours this candidate was suspended pending an investigation.

I think thats right thing for us to do.

The Scottish Labour leader added: Hes been suspended pending investigation because of posts which we believe are unacceptable.

We expect the highest standard in all our candidates and all those that seek to be representatives of the Labour Party.

Clearly when new information came to light we took swift action in suspending this candidate and I think thats the right thing for us to do.

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He also aligned himself with comments from shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves who told Sky News that she was very, very pleased Mr Brown had been suspended.

She said: I hadnt heard of this guy until this morning and Im very, very pleased that I will hopefully not have to hear of him again because hes been suspended as a Labour candidate.

That is absolutely right. Weve taken the swift action.

As soon as these postings came to light, we got rid of him.

But Mr Brown rejected the claims and suggested he had been hung out to dry.

He told the BBC: I didnt share those.

Where theyve been shared from or how has someone accessed my account and shared them, it may have been corrupted at some point  but honestly, I did not share those.

Pressed on the possibility he had forgotten making the posts, he said: No, I definitely didnt make that. I would never like these at all. Its not the sort of comments I would comment on.

Mr Brown added: Nobody has checked this, it is quite shocking that Ive been treated this way. Ive been hung out to dry, basically.

According to the Press and Journal, in the same month Mr Brown also shared a quote from a Jewish historian which said: The real issue  is that right-wing Jews in the Labour Party and outside the party object to the fact that Jeremy Corbyn is a consistent supporter of Palestinian rights.

Despite being suspended by the party, Mr Brown will still appear on the ballot paper on July 4 due to the deadline for nominations having passed, but he will not receive the backing of Labour.

The Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat has been in the news in recent weeks after Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross went back on his promise to stand down from Westminster to take over the candidacy from former MP David Duguid, who has spent time in hospital.

The SNP is also facing pressure following reports in the Press and Journal that two of its election candidates, Glen Reynolds and Robert Leslie, also posted comments on social media raising doubt about Russias role in the Salisbury poisoning.

Mr Reynolds is standing in Orkney and Shetland while Mr Leslie is standing in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine.

An SNP spokesperson said: Both candidates have made clear their full commitment to the SNPs policy of unequivocal opposition to Putins evil regime and the need to counter it at every opportunity.

Thats why we continue to extend our support to the Ukrainians bravely opposing Russian imperialism, and why we have consistently spoken out against Russian dark money that should have no place in UK politics.

The backlash led to Mr Ross announcing he would stand down as party leader after the July 4 poll.
John Swinney has been warned to rule out a North East tax as part of the SNP manifesto. (Andrew Milligan/PA)

First Minister John Swinney has been urged to rule out a North East tax after documents revealed proposals previously being considered by the SNP.

As the SNP prepares to set out its General Election manifesto on Wednesday, the Scottish Conservatives said the party must come clean about plans for a tax on energy businesses and changes to non-domestic rates.

Documents obtained by the Tories using freedom of information laws show a policy consideration in 2022-23 discussed immediately exploring whether devolved tax powers could be used to target windfall profits.

Scottish First Minister and SNP leader John Swinney will set out his partys manifesto on Wednesday (Jane Barlow/PA)

It went on to discuss whether non-domestic rates  business taxes  could be increased to raise money.

However, much of the document was redacted so it is unclear whether any costings were included in the proposals  and it did not become Scottish Government policy.

Andrew Bowie, Scottish Tory candidate for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, said any such tax would be damaging for businesses in the region.

He said: These new documents reveal the SNP were secretly planning a huge tax hike on Scottish businesses.

The SNPs North East tax would have put jobs at risk and hammered the local energy sector.

John Swinney must rule out ever introducing such a damaging new tax.

He must also come clean about the scale of these plans because SNP secrecy has limited how much we know about this worrying proposal.

There are so many redactions that we dont know if the nationalists were planning to try and raise millions or billions from businesses.

People in the north east deserve to hear straight answers from the SNP. Will they try to introduce this north east tax after the election?

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: Scottish ministers called on the UK Government to introduce an enhanced windfall profits tax, which it duly did in November 2022.

Scottish ministers remain supportive of a windfall profits tax across all sectors of the economy where excess profits emerge, not just energy companies that are disproportionately based in Scotland.

The Scottish Government does not agree that the UK Government should have extended the energy profits levy as they did in their Budget in March.

This disproportionality targets Scotland and risks undermining the very investment we need to unlock a just transition to net zero.
The Philippine military chief has demanded the return of rifles and equipment seized by the Chinese coast guard in a disputed shoal in the South China Sea and pay for damage in an assault he likened to an act of piracy.

Chinese personnel on board more than eight motorboats repeatedly rammed then boarded the two Philippine navy inflatable boats on Monday to prevent Filipino navy personnel from transferring food and other supplies including firearms to a Philippine territorial outpost in Second Thomas Shoal, which is also claimed by Beijing, according to Philippine officials.

After a scuffle and repeated collisions, the Chinese seized the boats and damaged them with machetes, knives and hammers.

They also seized eight M4 rifles, which were packed in cases, navigation equipment and other supplies and wounded a number of Filipino navy personnel, including one who lost his right thumb, two Philippine security officials told The Associated Press.

At a news conference where he pinned a medal on the chest of an injured navy officer, Gen Romeo Brawner Jr, head of the Philippine armed forces, said: We are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles and our equipment and were also demanding that they pay for the damage they caused.

They boarded our boats illegally and seized our equipment.

Theyre now like pirates with this kind of actions.

Armed with long knives and machetes, the Chinese coast guard personnel tried to beat the unarmed Filipinos, who resisted with their bare hands by parrying the blows and pushing back the Chinese, Gen Brawner said, adding: Our objective is also to prevent war.

China blamed the Philippines for the confrontation, saying the Filipino personnel trespassed into the shoal in defiance of its warnings.

The United States renewed a warning that it is obligated to defend its close treaty ally (AP)

This is the direct cause of the incident, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said in Beijing.

The Chinese coast guard at the scene has taken professional law-enforcement measures with restraint aimed at stopping the illegal supply mission by the Philippine vessels and no direct measures were taken against the Philippine personnel.

The United States renewed a warning on Tuesday that it is obligated to defend the Philippines, a treaty ally.

Second Thomas Shoal, part of the disputed Spratly Islands, has been occupied by a small Philippine navy contingent aboard a grounded warship that has been closely monitored by Chinas coast guard and navy in a years-long territorial standoff. China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety.

There is fear that disputes in the South China Sea, long regarded as an Asian flashpoint, could escalate and pit the United States against China in a larger conflict.

Aside from China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have also been involved in the increasingly tense stand-offs in the busy waterway.

Since last year, hostilities between China and the Philippines have escalated in the disputed waters, particularly in Second Thomas Shoal, which is less than 200 nautical miles from the Philippine coast and where the BRP Sierra Madre, now encrusted with rust, was deliberately grounded in 1999 to create a territorial outpost.

The ship remains an actively commissioned military vessel, meaning an attack on it could be considered by the Philippines as an act of war.
Debris from the Titan submersible that was recovered from the ocean floor near the wreck of the Titanic. Pic: Paul Daly/The Canadian Press.

The Titan submersible that was operated by OceanGate Expeditions. Photo: Reuters

The Titan Submersible and those who died in the tragedy. From left: American Oceangate CEO and co-founder Stockton Rush, Hamish Harding, Paul-Henri Nargeolet, Shahzada Dawood and Suleman Dawood.

One year since the Titan submersible slipped beneath the waves of the North Atlantic Ocean and sparked one of the most extraordinary search and rescue missions in recent memory, major questions still remain unanswered.

Offering commercial trips to the most famous shipwreck in history, the company behind the Titan, OceanGate, charged $250,000 (197,000) a trip in the Titanic tourist sub.

The only manned visit to the wreck last year had people around the world watching with bated breath after the Titan lost contact with the surface an hour and 45 minutes into its dive.

What followed was a dramatic search above and below the water before the subs estimated 96 hours of emergency oxygen supply ran out.

The rescue operation  which at one point offered a glimmer of hope when intermittent banging noises were heard by experts  ultimately ended in tragedy when the remains of the submersible were discovered near the bow of the Titanic.

The Titanic, which sank on its maiden voyage in 1912, was built in Belfast. Of the estimated 2,224 passengers and crew aboard, 1,496 died.

This is a full timeline of the Titan submersible disaster and its aftermath.

The Titan submersible that was operated by OceanGate Expeditions. Photo: Reuters

The Dive

News of the mission to the Titanic was broken by one of the Titans passengers, British explorer Hamish Harding, who took to Instagram on June 17 to explain that a weather window had opened up.

I am proud to finally announce that I joined @oceangateexped for their RMS TITANIC Mission as a mission specialist on the sub going down to the Titanic, he wrote.

Due to the worst winter in Newfoundland in 40 years, this mission is likely to be the first and only manned mission to the Titanic in 2023. A weather window has just opened up and we are going to attempt a dive tomorrow.

He added: The team on the sub has a couple of legendary explorers, some of which have done over 30 dives to the RMS Titanic since the 1980s including PH Nargeolet.

More expedition updates to follow IF the weather holds!

This was Hardings last post on Instagram.

The Titan was launched from the vessel the Polar Prince at 8am EDT, the US Coast Guard reported.

An hour and 45 minutes later, the Titan lost contact with the Polar Prince, but this was initially not a huge cause for concern because it had happened before.

The journey to the Titanic typically took the submersible around two hours, where it would travel to a depth of 12,500 feet and back again.

It took a further two hours after the Titan failed to resurface at the planned time of 3pm EDT for the authorities to be alerted of an overdue submersible at around 5.40pm EDT.

The Search and Rescue Operation

News of the missing submarine went global the following day when a search and rescue mission was launched by Canadian and US authorities.

The Titan was able to dive to the wreck with little question because of its location in international waters, with the Titanic wreck sitting around 80 nautical miles south of Newfoundland, Canada and 1,240 nautical miles east of New York City.

News of the massive search and rescue operation was accompanied by the revelation that the submarine had an emergency oxygen supply of 96 hours.

This meant that if the submersible  which measured 6.7 metres long  had made it to the surface after losing contact, its occupants would suffocate to death as it was locked from the outside.

The men aboard were British billionaire Hamish Harding (58); Pakistani billionaire Shahzada Dawood (48); and his son Suleman Dawood (19).

They were accompanied by French Titanic expert Paul-Henri Nargeolet (77), otherwise known as Mr Titanic, and American Oceangate CEO and co-founder Stockton Rush (61).

96 Hours of Oxygen

Following news that the men had a limited supply of oxygen, the US Coast Guard announced that it was deploying all available assets in a bid to recover the submersible.

Hope finally came on June 21  around a day before the sub would have run out of oxygen  when intermittent underwater banging noises were detected from the area where the vessel disappeared.

This prompted the US Coast Guard to relocate its underwater ROV search.

Those ROV searches have yielded negative results but continue, the US Coast Guard tweeted.

The Debris Field

But despite the hope offered by the intermittent banging noises, news of the Titans fate was finally confirmed on June 22, just hours after its oxygen supply would have run out, when its debris was discovered around 1,600 feet from the bow of the Titanic wreck.

The Coast Guard subsequently declared that the vessel had suffered a catastrophic implosion and offered their condolences to the families of the men on board.

Following this revelation, it was confirmed that the banging noises came from a source unconnected to the Titanic.

It then emerged that an underwater explosion was detected by authorities around the time the Titan went missing and questions have now been raised about why this was not taken into consideration.

According to reports, the US government spent $1.2m (950,000) on the search by June 23.

One of those who criticised the handling of the search was Titanic director and explorer, James Cameron, who recently said that he knew the sub was lost shortly after it went missing.

I literally wrote that on the [notepad] the moment I heard from my naval source, a very reliable source, that they had heard an event and triangulated it to the site [of the sub], Cameron said.

OceanGate

Once news of the implosion broke, OceanGate ceased all of its operations.

But even before the disaster, concerns had been raised about the safety of its operations, as they were conducted in an uncertified submersible.

The company also notably had its passengers sign a waiver accepting the possibility of death  and the subs experimental status  multiple times.

Problems within the company remain visible on the company review website Glassdoor, where a former employee described OceanGate as reckless in February 2023.

They described the company as dangerous and said they had no regard for human safety.

One of the biggest criticisms of OceanGate was the Titans use of a carbon fibre hull, which is widely believed to be unsuitable for deep-sea diving.

When referring to it in now-haunting footage, CEO and Titan victim Stockton Rush joked that he would be remembered for the rules he broke.

Aware that the material was prone to cracking at great pressure, the Titan, which did make successful dives to the Titanic, had an internal monitoring system to check for weaknesses in its hull.

But this has been rubbished as a safety mechanism in the wake of the disaster as even the smallest of cracks would lead to disaster at such great depths.

Debris from the Titan submersible that was recovered from the ocean floor near the wreck of the Titanic. Pic: Paul Daly/The Canadian Press.

The Investigation

The investigation into the disaster remains ongoing, despite initial reports that it would be completed within 12 months.

In its most recent update on June 14, the US Coast Guard explained that their investigation remains active but will take longer than initially projected to complete.

Several factors have extended the original 12-month timeline for the investigation, they explained.

These include the need to contract two salvage missions to secure vital evidence and the extensive forensic testing required, which has led to necessary delays.

The [US Coast Guard Marine Board of Investigation] continues to coordinate with multiple investigative agencies that have concurrent jurisdiction or a substantial interest in the marine casualty.

A spokesperson from the US Coast Guard said: Currently, the Marine Board of Investigation (MBI) into the Titan remains in the fact-finding phase and is collecting all relevant evidence and information.

At this time, we do not have a projected completion date. The latter part of the fact-finding phase will include a public hearing. The MBI will provide at least 60 days notice ahead of this public hearing.

Family reflections

Christine Dawood, whose husband and son were lost in the disaster, recently paid tribute to them on Facebook.

Alongside a picture of candles, she wrote: As the one-year anniversary is coming closer, Im reflecting back on a time that nearly broke me, and yet the love and support Ive received was, and still is, so huge that I cant feel anything but being grateful.

I miss them every day, every hour, every minute, they will never be replaced. With these candles, Id like to send their light to anyone whos open enough to receive it.

Meanwhile, Mr Nargeolets daughter told The Times that she took comfort in knowing that her father died while pursuing his biggest passion, the Titanic, which he spent his life researching.

However, she criticised OceanGate for their lack of follow-up with the families.

That is not normal, Sidonie Nargeolet said. The least they could do is offer their condolences.
Program helps locals live with elephants

10:11, June 19, 2024 By Chen Liang in Jinghong, Yunnan ( China Daily

Villagers harvest tea leaves in the Konggeliudui community in Jinghong, Yunnan province. CHEN LIANG/CHINA DAILY

Most of the country's wild Asian elephants, more than 280 individuals, are distributed in Xishuangbanna Dai autonomous prefecture in the southernmost part of Yunnan province.

Attracted by the abundance of food such as corn and bananas, and growing accustomed to a human presence, these majestic animals often venture into areas inhabited by people.

The increasing proximity between humans and elephants has led to a rise in conflicts, presenting challenges for many communities that previously had little to no experience with elephant activities.

To address the conflicts, local governments and conservation organizations have implemented various strategies.

In Xishuangbanna, both the governments of Jinghong city and Mengla county have established the Asian Elephant Safety Warning Monitoring Team.

Teams of professional "elephant watchers" use drones to continuously monitor the movements of wild elephants, providing crucial information to local communities and residents.

By offering timely updates on the whereabouts of elephants, the aim is to minimize the risks associated with human-elephant encounters.

Since the launch of its Asian Elephant Protection Program in 2000, the International Fund for Animal Welfare China has focused its efforts toward helping local communities and residents, said Ma Chenyue, program manager of IFAW China.

"Local communities and people are at the forefront of human-elephant conflicts. They are experiencing direct pressures from the expansion of wild elephants into their living spaces," Ma said.

"Their crops are destroyed; their safety is jeopardized while tending to rubber plantations or foraging for mushrooms in the forests; and they actually have made sacrifices in their economic development for the conservation of wild elephants. "So we feel obliged to aid them in finding sustainable ways to live harmoniously alongside wild elephants."

Cao Dafan visits Daotangqing village in Jinghong. CHEN LIANG/CHINA DAILY

Beekeeping

In June 2020, IFAW China, in collaboration with the Mengyang Protection Station of Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve and the Rainforest Foundation of Xishuangbanna, a local nonprofit, the "Community Livelihood Development to Promote Asian Elephant Protection" project was launched in Daotangqing village, Mengyang township, Jinghong.

This community, comprising 34 households and 150 residents of the Yi ethnic group, had relocated from the core area of the national nature reserve in the late 1990s to aid in the conservation of Asian elephants, a species under national first-class protection, said Cao Dafan, program officer of the AEP program.

Following their relocation, however, wild elephants also ventured into the area surrounding the village. Once in 2022, Cao said, the villagers witnessed a visit of a herd of 22 wild elephants.

On May 10, Zhang Jiangmei, a villager, said that an elephant visited a stream near the hamlet in the evening to have a drink and a bath.

Cao said that the primary source of income for villagers is derived from cultivating rubber trees. However, due to a decline in rubber prices over the past few years, their incomes have also experienced a notable decrease.

"So we worked to help the community explore some alternative sources of income to reduce their dependency on rubber trees," he said.

At first, Cao and his colleagues decided to promote beekeeping in the village. "Beekeeping is eco-friendly, good for crop cultivation and easy for villagers to learn and master," he said.

In 2020, the project invested 75,000 yuan ($10,600) to acquire 100 hives of the Chinese bee and an additional 100 empty beehives and distributed them to 10 families in the Daotangqing village.

In addition to providing training on beekeeping techniques, Cao and his team also helped the beekeepers establish management rules.

One of these rules includes prohibiting the introduction of wild swarms of bees into the hives, Cao said. It helps maintain the health and productivity of the bee colonies, he explained.

Between 2020 and last year, he said, beekeeping generated an income of about 200,000 yuan for the participants in the project.

However, there was an unexpected setback.

Between September and October last year, the bee population in Daotangqing experienced a significant drop, with half of the bees perishing, Cao said. The villagers soon found the cause  a species of hornet that was being cultivated in a nearby village attacked the Chinese bees at Daotangqing, feeding on their pupa.

"In Xishuangbanna, hornet pupa is considered a delicacy," Cao said. "So some people have cultivated the aggressive species to meet the market demand."

After negotiations between the two communities, the hornet cultivators agreed to cease their practice. Because of the incident, Cao said, the population of the bees at Daotangqing needs some time to restore.

A villager harvests honey at Daotangqing. CHEN LIANG/CHINA DAILY

Cash crops and solar

Besides beekeeping, the international NGO also introduced the cultivation of cash crops such as mangos and macadamia nuts to the villagers.

In 2021, Cao said villagers cleared more than 15 hectares of rubber trees surrounding the village because of the plummeting price of rubber.

"So we took the chance to recommend planting mango and macadamia nut trees to them," Cao said.

Cao and his team members invited agricultural experts from the Yunnan Institute of Tropical Crops in Jinghong to Daotangqing and trained villagers on how to manage their orchards.

Nineteen families participated in the project, he said, employing sustainable management practices to reduce pesticide and fertilizer usage, lower management costs and increase ground cover vegetation. "The experts told us that the undergrowth in their orchards can be good for the growth of fruit trees, and they also showed us how to accurately use pesticide and fertilizer," Zhang said.

Through eco-friendly management and planting practices, the project is estimated to be able to achieve a reduction of 971 to 1,256 metric tons of carbon dioxide over 15 years, with an annual reduction of 65 to 84 tons, according to Cao.

"Mango cultivation started to yield profits for the villagers last year, and the nuts will start generating profits this year," he said.

"In the long term, we hope that rubber plantations can be replaced with ecologically friendly, carbon-efficient crops, and the overall quality of the local ecosystem can be enhanced."

Moreover, IFAW China provided assistance to a family of six by installing a 16-kilowatt photovoltaic panel system in their courtyard. "In 2021, we aimed to initiate a pilot project to enhance the utilization of clean energy in the local residents' daily lives," Cao said.

Following a field survey, they identified that the 130-square-meter courtyard of villager Wang Baozhong and his family was sufficient for installing a system comprising 30 photovoltaic panels.

Wang, who has been a patrolman for the nature reserve for many years, was happy to try something new.

So Cao's project allocated 80,000 yuan for the construction of the system in July 2021, which started generating electricity in April 2022. Once the system fulfilled the family's daily electricity needs, any surplus electricity can be transferred back into the local grid.

From April 2022 to November last year, the photovoltaic system produced a revenue of more than 8,000 yuan, Cao said.

"The family kept half of the revenue, and the other half was given to the village for community development," he said.

Community care

In December, IFAW China, the protection station and the rainforest foundation expanded their project to the Konggeliudui community in Dadugang township, Jinghong.

The community is predominantly inhabited by the Hani ethnic group, with 39 households. More than 60 wild Asian elephants roam in the vicinity.

The community's primary livelihood revolves around rubber tapping and tea cultivation. "During the harvest season, villagers' chances of encountering elephants in the forest increases," Cao said.

"So our project is set to combine beekeeping with empowering residents, enhancing their skills and income while reducing their forest activities to minimize human-elephant conflicts."

During the project's inauguration in December, the first 100 beehives were distributed to 10 households in the community.

After some field research, the conservationists also found that traditional embroidery practiced by a few senior residents, including an inheritor of the intangible culture heritage, has the potential to become a new source of income for villagers and cater to visitors as Konggeliudui is close to the Wild Elephant Valley scenic area, a major tourist attraction in Xishuangbanna.

The local government has already helped build an embroidery workshop in the community, said Yang Yan, head of the village. "In our spare time, we can learn with our inheritor to make traditional costumes featuring the embroidery," she said.

It takes her more than a month to make a traditional costume, she said, adding that villagers can sell their costumes to visitors.

Cao and his colleagues are helping the community plan for rural tourism development by training community tour guides.

In April last year, IFAW China collaborated with Freshippo, also known as Hema, a direct warehouse shopping and grocery chain, to market honey from Daotangqing and another community in Xishuangbanna under a brand named Zero-Carbon Elephant-Friendly Honey.

The first carbon-zero honey in the country, with a limited run of 3,000 jars, was sold in Freshippo stores in Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou in Zhejiang province.

The profits from the sales were subsidized to support the sustainable development of the beekeeping project, said Ma from IFAW China.

"The focus of all of our community projects has been to broaden local people's vision and empower them with new skills," she said.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
The US team spoke to the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader (Leslie Shedd via AP)

A bipartisan US congressional delegation has met the Dalai Lama at his residence in Indias Dharamshala.

The move sparked anger from China, which views the exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism as a dangerous separatist.

The visit came after Washington and Beijing restarted talks after several years of turmoil that began after the imposition of tariffs on Chinese goods under the Trump administration.

Relations deteriorated even more following the Covid-19 pandemic and the rising military tensions in the South China Sea and in the Taiwan Strait.

Republican representative Michael McCaul was greeted by the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, India (Office of the Dalai Lama via AP)

The high-level delegation, led by Republican representative Michael McCaul and including Democratic former house speaker Nancy Pelosi, arrived at the hillside town, which the Nobel Peace Prize laureate has made his headquarters since fleeing from Tibet after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959.

There, they met with officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile, which wants more autonomy for Tibet.

Beijing does not recognise the exiled administration and has not held any dialogue with the representatives of the Dalai Lama since 2010.

After meeting the spiritual leader on Wednesday, the seven US members of congress addressed hundreds who had gathered at a monastery just outside the 88-year-old Dalai Lamas residence, waving American and Tibetan flags.

They told the crowd that a key focus of their visit was to underscore the Resolve Tibet Act, passed by the US congress last week, and aims to encourage dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials with the hopes of finding a peaceful resolution between Tibet and Beijing.

The bill should now be sent to the White House to be signed into law by President Joe Biden.

The bill is a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet, Ms Pelosi said, eliciting applause.

An exiled Tibetan was among those celebrating the event (AP)

Mr McCaul, the Republican representative, said the bill reaffirms American support for the Tibetan right to self-determination.

Just this week our delegation received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning us not to come here but we did not let the CCP intimidate us for we are here today, he said, as people cheered.

However, the visit and newly passed bill triggered a swift backlash from Beijing.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, urged Washington not to support Tibetan independence and said the White House must not sign the bill into law, or China will take resolute measures.

Its known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion, Mr Lin added, urging the American side to have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world.

Democratic former House speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the public after the meeting (AP)

The Dalai Lama denies being a separatist and says he only advocates substantial autonomy and protection for Tibets native Buddhist culture.

The Tibetan spiritual leader has a history of engaging with US officials, including meeting American presidents  from Jimmy Carter to Barack Obama  except for Donald Trump. He has yet to meet Mr Biden since he took office in 2021.

The Dalai Lama is expected to travel to the US on Thursday for medical treatment on his knees, but it is unclear if he will meet any officials while he is there.

Meanwhile, Beijing has repeatedly asked the US not to interfere with Tibetan affairs and has argued that the people of Tibet have enjoyed social stability and economic growth under its rule.

While India considers Tibet to be part of China, it hosts Tibetan exiles.
Why I wont buy into empty nest syndrome  it doesnt have to be such a major crisis

Gwyneth Paltrow declared that the impending departure of her youngest child for college is giving her a nervous breakdown. Many parents, facing empty nest syndrome, can sympathise. But, asks, Charlotte Cripps, why are modern parents turning every milestone into a grief party?

There are mixed reactions to becoming empty nesters

Charlotte Cripps UK Independent Wed 19 Jun 2024 at 08:00

Hes leaving me! I feel like my life is over, sobbed an old school friend when I popped over to her house to pick up a childs balance bike that she was giving away. She wasnt talking about her partner walking out on her, but her baby  an 18-year-old who is heading off to university in September.
A parade makes its way past the Ardoyne shopfronts in 2016 (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Parading disputes, once an annual part of life in Northern Ireland, are now all but resolved, a relic of the past.

The Twelfth, rather than overshadowed by scenes of violent clashes, is now a colourful celebration of loyalist culture, requiring minimal policing.

Tens of thousands of Orange Order members, bands and supporters will take to the streets on the Twelfth to commemorate the victory of Protestant King William of Orange over Catholic King James II at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.

Despite the scale of the parades, it will require little more than police officers providing traffic control measures in the vast majority of areas.

That is a very different story from the summers of old when Northern Ireland was seen as a place where violence during the summer months was inevitable.

The Parades Commission was never popular with the Orange Order. Following their formation in 1997, there have been restrictions or outright bans placed on a number of contentious parades. They include Drumcree, the Ormeau Road, Whiterock and the Crumlin Road, among others.

There have been attempts by disruptive elements to ignite contention in some rural parades, but they have failed with residents keen to avoid the kind of scenes that marked flashpoint areas.

Ardoyne was one of the last major areas of contention, with years of violence both on the Crumlin Road and later in Woodvale before a resolution was reached.

The deal was only possible after long and difficult talks facilitated by the Rev Harold Good and Jim Roddy, who managed to earn the respect of both sides of the bitter disagreement.

Nationalist residents agreed to no longer object or protest against the outgoing parade that passed the area early in the morning with few incidents.

The three north Belfast lodges agreed they would no longer apply for a return march in exchange for five morning parades a year and an agreement that talks would continue.

Eight years on and there seems to be a change of heart from the north Belfast lodges who have once again lodged an application with the Parades Commission to have an evening return parade.

There are hopes that a solution can be reached before next month that will bring about a peaceful resolution to the dispute.

But there are fears that after eight years of relative peace, violence could once against return to Northern Irelands most notorious interface.
Michael Collins disappeared far more people in three years than the Provisional IRA did in 30
Many tens of thousands of people remain displaced in the Papuan provinces from years of conflict.

Some of the hundreds of villagers from Bibida district, Paniai regency, Central Papua province who sought refuge in the Madi Church in East Paniai district, in photo released on June 18, 2024.

Hundreds of residents in Indonesias restive Papua region have sought shelter in a church after clashes between security forces and Papuan independence fighters left two insurgents, a soldier and a civilian dead.

Fighting flared in Paniai regency in Central Papua province after the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB), part of the Free Papua Movement (OPM), burned a public minivan and killed its driver last week, the military said in a statement.

Two-hundred-and-fifty civilians fled the latest clash, the military said, but a local human rights activist told BenarNews at least twice the number have sought refuge.

As of last October, 76,228 refugees from the ongoing conflict were displaced in the Papuan provinces, the Papua Legal Aid Institute has reported, from a total population of 5.6 million people.

The violent conflict in the western half of New Guinea island is estimated to have cost hundreds of thousands of mainly Papuan lives since the 1960s, with the Indonesian government and independence groups accusing each other of serious human rights abuses.

Military forces pursued the TPNPB into the Bibida district of Paniai on Friday, resulting in a deadly firefight on Monday that killed two combatants, according to military spokesperson Lt. Col. Yogi Nugroho.

Residents of Bibida district requested assistance from security forces to temporarily relocate to Madi Church in the neighboring East Paniai district, he said.

The people of Bibida have never accepted the presence of the OPM in their area due to their arbitrary actions and cruel acts, such as forcibly taking crops, livestock, and even some young girls, Yogi told BenarNews.

TPNPB spokesperson Sebby Sambom has denied the group committed any criminal acts in Bibida that led to the displacement of residents.

Thats not true. Thats the Indonesian military and police propaganda, he told BenarNews.

Papuan activists display banners during a rally in Jakarta commemorating the 61st anniversary of the failed efforts by Papuan tribal chiefs to declare independence from Dutch colonial rule in 1961, Dec. 1, 2022. [ AP/Tatan Syuflana]

A human rights and church activist in Papua, Yones Douw, accused the presence of government troops in Bibida of fueling fear among Papuans and causing them to flee.

Douw also said the number of displaced residents was 574, not 250 as stated by the military.

I asked the people of Bibida directly, and they said that it was not true. They [TPNPB] have never stolen crops, and they have never killed livestock, Douw told BenarNews, adding they usually bought local produce from residents.

The TPNPB-OPM allowed them to evacuate because Bibida would be used as a battleground, he added.

Yogi said according to security forces observations, insurgents seeking to destabilize Bibida had taken positions in the forest and nearby regions.

Therefore, if there are people moving into the Bibida forest, they can be confirmed as sympathizers or members of the OPM, he said.

Security forces on Friday retook Bibida, which had been under TPNPB-OPM control, Yogi said.

One of the slain Liberation Army members was identified as Danis Murib, a deserter from the Indonesian military who had abandoned his post in April.

Yes, he was a former active member of the Indonesian military who joined the TPNPB four months ago, Sambom told BenarNews.

On Saturday, the TPNPB shot dead a government soldier, identified as Hendrik Fonataba, in the neighboring Puncak regency, Yogi said.

In 1963, Indonesian forces invaded Papua  like Indonesia, a former Dutch colony  and annexed the region.

Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969 after a United Nations-sponsored referendum, which locals and activists have decried as a sham because it involved only about 1,000 people. However, the U.N. accepted the result endorsing Jakartas rule.

The Indonesian Defense Ministry said last month it had requested a bigger budget to buy high-tech weapons that can detect or retaliate against Papuan groups who know the regions terrain better.

Human rights activists criticized the ministry proposal, arguing it would escalate violence and lead to more civilians being caught in the crossfire in the mineral-rich but underdeveloped region.
Cracks in the alliance between the Duterte and Marcos political clans have been widening since January.

Vice President Sara Duterte (2nd from left) smiles shortly after her inauguration in southern Davao City, June 19, 2022. Her father, ex-President Rodrigo Duterte, is positioned in the center and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr stands 3rd from right.

Vice President Sara Duterte resigned from the cabinet of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday, leaving her post as education minister in a surprise move that signifies a complete collapse of an alliance between the countrys two leading political families.

Cracks in the alliance have been widening since January, with Saras father  former President Rodrigo Duterte  and Marcos taking swipes at each other in the local press.

The elder Duterte, who drew international condemnation for his war on narcotics, has accused Marcos of being a drug user  a claim the president has flatly denied. Marcos, meanwhile, has claimed that Duterte was a long time user of the opioid fentanyl.

Cheloy Garafil, a spokeswoman for the president, confirmed Dutetres resignation on Wednesday afternoon.

Along with the education post, Duterte also quit as the head of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.

The position is high-profile and allowed the vice president to broadcast her criticisms of the communist rebels, who have been waging one of Asias longest running insurgencies. Marcos, on the other hand, has reopened preliminary peace talks with the insurgents, which were ended by his predecessor in 2017.

In a statement, Duterte said she had given one months notice to ensure proper and orderly transition for her successor.

My resignation is not borne out of weakness, but was brought along by my concern for teachers and Filipino youth, she said. I may no longer be the secretary of education, but I will continue to closely monitor and stand up for the sake of the teachers and students if needed.

Duterte remains vice president despite resigning from her cabinet posts. In the Philippines, the president and vice president are elected separately - a mechanism that serves as a check and balance for the country's top post.

But both Duterte and Marcos had agreed on the alliance in a so-called "Unity Team" to beat Leni Robredo, the country's vice president in ex-leader Duterte's term who critically monitored his drug war.

Last year, opposition lawmaker France Castro called for an investigation into alleged anomalies in the allocation of 650 million pesos (U.S. $11.4 million) to the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education, both of which were overseen by Duterte.

Her father, Rodrigo, subsequently made a death threat against the congresswoman, according to a criminal complaint that was later dismissed by the ombudsman.

Opposition party Akbayan welcomed Dutertes decision to resign, saying it was long overdue.

Her tenure at DepEd has been marred by massive controversies, particularly the murky waters of her multi-million confidential funds that have raised more eyebrows than standards, Akbayan said in a statement.

Analysts say hostilities between the two political dynasties began as the elder Duterte grew wary that Marcos would hand him over to the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is investigating his bloody anti-drugs campaign. Marcos has publicly said he would not allow ICC investigators into the country.

The two leaders are also at odds over the direction of Philippine relations with China, with Marcos taking a much firmer stance than his predecessor against Beijings actions in the South China Sea.

The Marcos and Duterte clans formed an alliance in the 2022 presidential election.

Lawyer Harry Roque, a spokesman for the former president, on Wednesday said the alliance had been formally dissolved and Sara was now the leader of the opposition.

The line has been drawn. The Philippines finally has a real leader, he said in a statement.

Jeoffrey Maitem contributed reporting from Davao City, southern Philippines
Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. pins a medal on a Philippine Navy sailor wounded two days earlier when the China Coast Guard blocked a resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal, June 19, 2024.

UPDATED at 4:07 p.m. ET on 2024-06-19

The Philippines military chief on Wednesday demanded that China return firearms its coast guard seized from Filipino troops during what he described as harassment of the countrys resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal in which one Filipino sailor lost a finger.

The incident Monday set off a war of words, with Beijing accusing the Philippine side of deliberately causing a collision. On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and his Philippine counterpart, Enrique Manalo, discussed Chinas escalatory actions against Manila, the U.S. State Department said.

Meanwhile, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Wednesday visited the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command (WESCOM) in Palawan, a province fronting the South China Sea. He said he was there to rally the troops, pinning a medal to Navy man Jeffrey Facundo who lost a digit in Mondays incident.

Local media in Palawan earlier reported that seven other Filipinos sustained minor injuries when the China Coast Guard intercepted a rigid-hulled inflatable boat belonging to the Philippine Navy in the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin and called Renai Jiao by Beijing.

Our action now is that we are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles and our equipment. And we are also demanding from them to pay for the damages that they have caused, Brawner said in Palawan. Transcripts of his comments were made available to reporters.

We cannot allow them to just take and destroy our equipment. For me, this is piracy already because they boarded our boat illegally, they (took) our equipment, Brawner said. Again, they are like pirates for doing such actions.

This handout photo shows what the Philippines armed forces says is communication and navigational equipment smashed by Chinese personnel after they forcibly boarded a Philippine Navy boat on June 17, 2024. [Armed Forces of the Philippines Handout]

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) claimed its vessel was forcibly towed, looted and damaged, and that Chinese personnel used machetes, blades and pikes to threaten sailors and damage equipment.

The incident was first reported by the Chinese press, which accused the Philippine side of setting off the confrontation when it ignored warnings and proceeded toward a rusting Navy ship that Manila purposely grounded there in 1999 to serve as its outpost in the disputed region.

At a press conference in Beijing on Wednesday, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lin Jian said what caused the incident was deliberate intrusion into the waters of Renai Jiao and that the law enforcement action taken by China Coast Guard on the scene was professional and restrained.

Rear Adm. Alfonso Torres, the WESCOM chief, said the CCG confiscated seven rifles aboard the Philippine Navy boat they intercepted. They also destroyed the boats communications and navigational equipment as well as the personal mobile phones of the Filipino personnel.

Torres said the firearms that were seized were disassembled and in gun cases because troops have strict instructions not to show or handle firearms in the vicinity of the disputed shoal, to dial down the tension. He said one of the CCG boats rammed the Philippine Navy boat at high speed, injuring Facundo who lost his right thumb.

In this handout photo, a Chinese coast guard member is described as brandishing an axe at Philippine troops on a rotation and resupply mission to a disputed reef in the South China Sea, June 17, 2024. [Armed Forces of the Philippines Handout]





The Chinese armed with blades and machetes then boarded the Filipino vessel and pointed weapons at the Filipinos, who fought back, though outmatched, Brawner said, adding that the Chinese boats outnumbered Philippine ones eight to one.

Before disembarking, the Chinese personnel punctured the Philippine boat with a bladed weapon, he added.

The core issue remains  the illegal presence and actions of Chinese vessels within our jurisdiction. The continued aggressive behavior of the Chinese Coast Guard is what escalates tensions in the area, Brawner said.

The incident was the third this year in which Philippine personnel have been hurt on missions to rotate and resupply troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal. On March 5 and March 23, Filipino crew members were injured when their supply boats were hit by water cannons from Chinese vessels.

China says resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre violate its jurisdiction despite the reef being located well inside Manilas exclusive economic zone.

Six parties hold overlapping claims in the South China Sea, with Beijings the most expansive, including more than 80% of its waters.

Jojo Rinoza contributed to this report from Manila

This story has been updated to include the conversation between Blinken and Manalo.
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The house at 27 Summer Street in Lanesborough. Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Authorities from New York and Massachusetts searched the home Tuesday in an attempt to link serial killer Lewis Lent to "unsolved crimes."
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An early 1900s portrait of American nurse and teacher Susie King Taylor (1848-1912), who was known as as the first Black nurse in the U.S. Army for her service during the Civil War.
You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain (Exodus 20:7).

My sweet niece is just shy of three years old. She recently heard someone use Gods name as a curse word. Her mom quickly tried to recover the situation by telling her, We dont say God. The ever-popular phrase, Oh my - - - has become all too common and accepted, even among believing Christians.

This precious little girl took what her mother said quite literally and whenever they talked about God or wanted to pray to God she would respond, We dont say God. Her mom was mortified, she wanted her daughter to learn and love God, but she did not want her taking His precious name in vain. My niece is now beginning to learn the difference in her toddler mind.

This comical story sets us up to ponder the holiness and beauty of our Lords mighty name. We will now take a deeper look at the third commandment: You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain.

What Does in Vain Mean?

Hopefully we are using Gods name all of the time. Ideally, we are praying to Him and talking about Him in our daily lives. Using His name is not a sin, unless it is in vain. Strongs Hebrew Concordance tells us that shav is the Hebrew word translated in vain, in Exodus 20:7. The meaning is, Evil, idolatry, uselessness.

Evil: How do we use Gods name for evil? I think about cursing. There are so many phrases people like to use to cuss that include one of the names of God. Jesus name, too, has power in it. Gods name has power in it. People know that and pair His name with evil to accomplish sin.

Idolatry: In thinking back on the first two commandments, we take Gods name in vain when we call something else god that is not Him. He is the only one true God (John 17:3). When we dumb Him down to our manmade religions, it is in vain because calling on any name other that Jesus our Lord is useless. You might see temporary demonic or fleshly results, but true eternity weighs on Jesus alone.

Uselessness: This is an important point as well. The term useless reminds us that we should not talk about God in ways that are pointless. We should remember Who He is and what He has done for us. We should be considerate to speak positively of Him and respectfully of Him. He is also in relationship with all who believe in Him, and so we should be careful not to ignore that relationship, but to cultivate it with purpose and speak to Him and about Him with intent.

Is This More Than Using God as a Curse Word?

This is more than just avoiding cussing. As we have seen from the Hebrew, we are to avoid evil, idolatry, and uselessness when it comes to the name of God. I believe the concept of this commandment can be seen in other places in Scripture.

God said to Moses, I am who I am. And he said, Say this to the people of Israel: I am has sent me to you (Exodus 3:14).

I am the Lord; that is my name; my glory I give to no other, nor my praise to carved idols (Isaiah 42:8).

And My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).

And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

So that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:10-11).

The names of God (Jesus, Holy Spirit, Father, Lord, Yahweh, I Am, etc.) need to be revered. He is our Savior. He is our Creator. He is our Redeemer. He is our King. Our mindset when it comes to Him should be loving, respectful, and treasuring His name because of who He is and has always been.

The Holy Name of God

In the Lords Prayer, Jesus provides the model prayer for us. He begins in Matthew 6:9 with, Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. To be hallowed is to be holy. The name of God is holy. Do we see His name as precious and worthy of our praise? Do we speak about Him in a way that honors Him? Do we use His name to bless or to curse?

When we have the Holy Spirit, there should be a very real conviction in our hearts if we misuse the name of our Lord. Maybe we just have not been truly appreciative of His name? Is so, we can repent and turn towards Him and away from apathy. Lord, forgive us for ever dumbing down Who You are by Your name.

He has the name that can save. At the sound of His name demons flee (Luke 10:17) and the sick are healed (Mark 16:18). He has full power and authority. He is worthy. May we not water down His holiness by tossing around His name inappropriately.

The Ten Commandments List

Commandments 1-4

Thou shall have no other gods before me. (Exodus 20:3)

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven images. (Exodus 20:4-6)

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain. (Exodus 20:7)

Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. (Exodus 20:8-11)

Commandments 5-10

Honor your father and mother. (Exodus 20:12)

Thou shalt not murder. (Exodus 20:13)

Thou shalt not commit adultery. (Exodus 20:14)

Thou shalt not steal. (Exodus 20:15)

Thou shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. (Exodus 20:16)

Thou shall not covet your neighbor. (Exodus 20:17)

Jesus summed up all of the 10 commandments. As we look at commandments 1-4, they are vertical, about our relationship with God. (Love the Lord your God.) As we look at commandments 5-10, they are horizontal, about our relationship with others. (Love your neighbor as yourself.)

This week, may we live in His power to use His name properly. May we confess any ways in which we have used His name for evil, idolatry, or uselessness. Only He is the One who can help us to turn from our sinful ways. He sees our hearts and He knows our genuine desires. With His Spirits help, we can live out the third commandment with confidence in Him.

Related articles:

The First Command

The Second Command

Third Command

Photo credit: Getty Images/Studio Grand Web
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Will lead a new, domestic division, with an aim to favourably impact Indian public health

Orchid Pharma, a Chennai-based pharmaceutical company catering across the pharmaceutical value chain (discovery to delivery) with expertise in R&D and marketing, has announced the appointment of Chief Executive Officer, Rajnish Rohatgi, for its new division Orchid AMS. He will be responsible for setting up a new division focused on promoting the rational use of anti-infectives, to favourably impact a key aspect of Indian public health.

Rohatgi is a seasoned leader and strategic thinker with over 35 years of experience in steering both B2C and B2B product and service businesses across sectors including consumer goods and healthcare.

He has held prominent positions at prominent companies like Unilever, Max Hospital, and Becton Dickinson, where his visionary leadership and entrepreneurial acumen delivered significant impact.

In 2022-23, Rohatgi consulted with Orchid Pharma and was instrumental in developing a unique strategy and business plan focused on entering the domestic formulations market, with a range of antibiotics. Recognising his exceptional expertise, Orchid Pharma invited him to join full-time, undertaking the challenge of building a successful business from the ground up.

Backed by a strong educational foundation from IIT Kanpur and IIM Calcutta, Rohatgi has cultivated a robust foundation in propelling business growth, fostering innovation, and spearheading strategic initiatives.
Former Newsnight presenter Emily Maitlis has said fronting Channel 4s UK election coverage will feel like going home.

The co-host of The News Agents podcast, who revealed she was leaving the BBC in 2022, is to be at the helm alongside broadcaster Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

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The 53-year-old appears in the August issue of Tatler magazine alongside broadcasters Kay Burley, who will anchor Election Night Live for Sky, and Mishal Husain, who is standing in for Sophie Raworth for the BBCs general election leaders debate.

Maitlis told Tatler: There was a little rivalry between Channel 4 News and Newsnight.

We always used to fight for the same guests and the same stories. I feel like Im going home.

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According to the magazine, Maitlis realised she wanted to cover the election while watching the America Decides election episode of HBO drama Succession, about warring siblings in a media dynasty.

Maitliss return as TV host comes following cuts to current affairs programme Newsnight, which she began presenting in 2006 before announcing her departure in 2022.

Reflecting on this, she said: It kind of broke my heart, actually.

The whole programme is obviously going through a massive change, and I sort of had a pinch-myself moment.

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Whats weird is youre in the process of helping to write that first draft of history, but you dont always realise it at the time.

Emily Maitlis was played by Gillian Anderson in Scoop (Peter Mountain/Netflix/PA)

Speaking further about the election, she said: Either its the first change of government for 15 years or its the most incredible comeback youve ever seen.

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The hardest thing this time will be that I wont have heard of most of the candidates.

This year has seen the second-highest number of former MPs to stand down ahead of an election in modern political history.

One of Maitliss most famous Newsnight interviews was with the Duke of York over his friendship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, which was recently portrayed on screen in Netflix drama Scoop.

See the full feature in the August issue of Tatler, available through digital download and on newsstands from Thursday, June 27th.
A teenage girl who attended the Eras Tour in Cardiff exactly eight months after starting her last cycle of chemotherapy said it was amazing to see Taylor Swift in concert after listening to the star through her cancer treatment.

Isabel Dockings, 17, told the PA news agency she underwent 14 cycles of chemotherapy for Ewing sarcoma, a type of bone cancer, after her diagnosis in February 2023 and used to listen to Swift with her nurses and put up posters of the musician around her hospital bed.

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Isabel, whose cancer was in her legs, pelvis and lungs, said: When I was going through treatment, I would talk to my nurses about Taylor. It was a really full circle thing to go from listening to her with my nurses to then actually being able to see all the songs live.

8 months ago today i started my last cycle of chemo. i finally get to see taylor today after a year of putting up her posters in hospital rooms. ERAS TOUR DAY



for anyone important, i will be at the back of right standing :)



#CardiffTSTheErasTour pic.twitter.com/3Fplwi0wpd  issy spoke to niall (@91FlNELlNE) June 18, 2024 Advertisement

Isabel, from Newport in South Wales, has been a fan of Swift since the release of the Red album in 2012.

She said: I always had some posters up by my bed in hospital so I feel like it was a very known fact on the ward that I love Taylor so they were all very happy for me when they found out I got tickets and I was able to go.

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When I was in hospital I was usually in for quite a few days so it just gave it more of a homey feeling because in my room at home I have a lot of posters up.

Isabel, who has been in remission since November, attended the Eras Tour in Cardiff on Tuesday night and she said seeing Taylor in person doesnt even feel real.

Quite a few of my nurses were at the show last night as well. We all got tickets and we would all be talking about our outfits and making bracelets together so its been really nice to have it with my nurses as well.

Ill probably go back up to the ward next week because theyve all been so excited for me to finally be able to do it.

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Isabel Dockings attended the Eras tour in Cardiff. Photo: Isabel Dockings/PA.

Ahead of the concert, Isabel shared the news that she would be attending the show eight months after beginning her last cycle of chemotherapy and received a supportive response from other fans, known as Swifties, with her post gaining over 94,000 views.

One user commented fellow cancer survivor here to say YOU ROCK! Have so much fun while another said cancer Swifties unite!!! So happy for you.

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Since her diagnosis, she really sees the good in the world as everyone has just been so, so sweet about everything, she said.

Even yesterday, when we were chatting to people to trade bracelets, my mum would bring it up about how it was eight months to the day that I started my last cycle and everyone was just so lovely and I was tearing up, she said.

Isabel said that being diagnosed with cancer was challenging but she is determined to remain positive.

I do take a lot of the positives out of it because before I got diagnosed, I was so, so shy but since I was diagnosed, Im so much more open and willing to do stuff, she said.

It was definitely difficult but I think Ive had such a positive outcome with everything.
Two men wanted in Northern Ireland to face charges relating to the murder of an RUC officer nearly 50 years will argue that a request for their extradition is an abuse of process, the High Court heard this morning.

John Edward McNicholl (72) of Newmills, Letterkenny, County Donegal and Seamus Christopher O'Kane (73) of Scalestown, Dunshaughlin, County Meath are wanted in the UK.

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They face charges arising from an investigation into the murder of 25-year-old Constable Robert John McPherson in County Derry on July 26th 1975 and the attempted murder of a second constable.

Mr McNicholl is charged with murdering Constable McPherson and attempted murder, while Mr O'Kane is charged with possession of firearms, including an RUC-issued firearm taken during the ambush on Constable McPherson.

At the High Court on Wednesday morning, Mark Lynam SC, for Mr McNicholl, said his client has been in Ireland since 2003 but for reasons unknown, the UK made no effort to seek his surrender until now. Mr Lynam said he will be arguing that this is a "significant abuse of process".

John Berry BL, for Mr O'Kane, said he will also be making an objection on grounds of an abuse of process. Mr Lynam asked for time to put together all points of objection. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath adjourned the matter until July 10 for an update. A hearing will take place some time after that.

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Independent TD for Donegal Thomas Pringle was present in court this morning. Mr Pringle put up an independent surety on behalf of Mr McNicholl at a previous court hearing.

Warrants for the arrest of both men were issued following a request by the Northern Ireland authorities earlier this year as part of an ongoing investigation into Constable McPherson's murder.

Constable McPherson was from Leck, outside Coleraine in Co Derry. He was shot dead in an INLA ambush in Dungiven Main Street around midday.

He was hit by a single shot when he and a colleague were ambushed as they investigated a report of a suspect car. His fellow officer was hit multiple times but survived.

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Both Mr McNicholl and Mr O'Kane face four charges relating to the possession of explosives and firearms on February 16th 1976 at Garvagh, County Derry. The court heard that an RUC-issued firearm retrieved at that location had been taken during the ambush on Constable McPherson.

The extradition warrant relating to Mr O'Kane states that on May 5, 1976 he and others escaped from custody at the Maze prison in Northern Ireland prior to a decision being made to prosecute him for the four offences.

At a previous hearing of the High Court Detective Garda Tony Keane of the Garda Extradition Unit said that following a search of the premises at Garvagh in 1976, the RUC recovered two electric detonators, two improvised pressure mat switches, two Walther pistols, one Browning pistol, a 0.22 rifle, a Remington shotgun and 104 rounds of ammunition.

Detective Keane said the warrant issued by the Northern Irish authorities states that Mr O'Kane and two other males were found hiding in an upstairs bedroom in the property and were arrested.

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The warrant continues that Mr O'Kane was interviewed on February 17 1976, where he made a full admission to possessing the explosive substances, firearms and ammunition recovered from the property at Brockaghboy in Garvagh.

Both men are on bail.
A young female dairy farmer said she could actually fit her feet into over-sized calving gloves as she struggles to find outdoor workwear that isn't designed for six-feet tall men.

Laura Hannon, who gave up her nursing career to tend to the family's 162 hectare holding in Co Meath, feels swamped in clothes that are at least two sizes bigger than her five-foot, two-inch body.

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The 28-year-old, who farms 320 cows and 80 heifers in Kiltale, would love to "feel comfortable and look good" while out for long hours in all weathers.

"Most farm work wear is designed for a six-foot tall man, so even my dad, who is smaller than that, would struggle to find trousers a lot shorter." said Laura, who recently won an accolade at the National Dairy Awards for her discussion group that she set up with other female farmers.

"A man can walk into the likes of Aldi, Lidl or Woodies and pick up trousers for farm work, but there is nothing for women.

"Most designers, I think, don't see potential sales from making a women's line, but the trousers that I get are about a foot longer than what I need," she laughed.

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"I manage to get ones with buttons on the bottom. I've tried to stitch up the bottoms, but that is not suitable for farm work because I keep catching my foot in them, so they don't last.

"I've four pairs of trousers that I bought in Sweden and I actually approached the company to see if they would sell them here because they're the only ones that I ever managed to buy that are designed for women and have the stretch and durability for working on a farm and being active.

"And it is not just farming. There are more women taking up careers in plumbing and construction and other fields that need outdoor workwear.

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Laura Hannon farms 320 cows and 80 heifers in Kiltale.

"We need trousers that are heavy duty, have more pockets than normal trousers, and have a stretch in them for climbing over gates, chasing after cows and going on grass walks.

"You can throw on a pair of jeans but you don't have the stretch in them, you can put on a pair of tracksuit bottoms, but you'd be absolutely melting in them after ten minutes or soaked to the skin in the rain."

But it is not only trousers that Laura is finding hard to find sizes to fit.

"I wear wellies for everything and go through two pairs a year. I might put on a pair of trainers if the grass is very dry, and it is a very dry day, but I generally wear wellies with steel caps because I'm always afraid of calves standing on my toes.

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"They are not the easiest to get in my size. Every time I need new wellies, I ring the local agricultural shop and ask them if they have a size five in stock. Most farm shops wouldn't keep women's sizes in steel capped wellies, so I'll ring them, and they'll order in for me or they might have bought two pairs the last time I ordered, so they might have one in reserve for me."

There were 303 calves born on the farm this year and even in calving, Laura struggles with work gear.

"We use gloves for calving and artificial insemination. They come in one size that fits all, but it is really one size that fits all men,

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"There are no gloves designed for smaller hands, so I reckon they fit my feet better, or I could definitely fit my two hands into the one glove.

"It makes the job that little bit harder because you're trying to feel inside a cow when they are calving and that's hard when you feel like you're wearing a pair of mittens that are just floating on you."

She added: "I've got advice to wear a second pair of gloves like small milking gloves over them, but that makes it harder to actually feel anything inside a cow and some people have advised me to secure the glove on my hand with a bobbin but I shouldn't have to do that because it shouldn't be so hard to get a pair of small gloves.

"I think the milking gloves come in small sizes because they are used in other areas, such as laboratories, where there are more females employed.

"I wouldn't have the first idea where to start in terms of designing a clothing line, but there is a market for anyone that has.

" It's nice to have nice clothes on a farm. Most people go into work, and they want to look well and presentable. Everyone sees me on the farm and it is nice to have a set of clothes that look well on you and not ones that are two times too big and uncomfortable to wear."
Gardai have confirmed there is a growing nationwide trend of XL Bully dogs being abandoned.

Two stray XL Bully dogs were captured by gardai and a dog warden in Kilkenny on Tuesday.

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The dogs, who were believed to be abandoned, were found in Castlecomer in the north of the county.

A Garda spokesperson explained that two officers, along with specialist help and a county dog warden, took the dogs in early on Tuesday morning.

A Garda statement outlined that the dogs were placid but one of the animals was very large and heavy and it took some time to get them into a Garda vehicle.

Speaking on KCLR 96FM, Garda Andy Neill explained: Its not yet known if [they were abandoned] in this instance, or if the pair escaped from their home somehow.

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We cant establish [that] in this case. Its indeed a possibility, but nationally this is a trend. We cant say were certain they were dumped, but we can say this is ongoing, its very serious.

The trend follows a fatal incident earlier this month when 23-year-old Nicole Morey from Limerick died after being mauled by one of her own dogs, which was an XL Bully. It was subsequently destroyed.

Currently, no dog breed is banned in Ireland  unlike in Britain, where it is a criminal offence to own an XL bully unless the owner has a valid exemption certificate.

However, there are a number of breeds in Ireland, XL bullies among them, that are restricted.

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The breeds include American, English and Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bull Mastiffs, Doberman dogs, German Shepherds, Japanese Akita and Tosa, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and Rottweilers.

Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys said she was very conscious of public concern over dog control and pointed to a stakeholder group she set up three months ago to examine the current rules.

The Minister said she has asked them to look at whether we should follow the example in Northern Ireland in the UK and what I can clearly say is if they recommend to me that we should ban a particular breed, I'm happy to do that.

Any recommendations that are made by that stakeholder group will now be closely scrutinised.

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Legislation restricting the ownership of XL Bully dogs in Northern Ireland will come into effect next month.

From July 5th, owners must ensure their dog is muzzled and on a lead when in a public place. Selling, gifting, exchanging or breeding from an XL Bully-type dog will also be banned.

It will become an offence to own an XL Bully without an exemption certificate from December 31st. Owners who wish to keep their dogs must apply and pay for an exemption certificate from that date.
Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald has urged against seizing on the hurt of the past in the UK general election campaign.

She was speaking after her partys Fermanagh South Tyrone candidate, and former Royal College of Nursing chief, Pat Cullen was challenged to condemn two atrocities during Northern Irelands troubled past during which nurses were killed.

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In an exchange on BBC Radio Ulster, UUP Fermanagh South Tyrone candidate Diana Armstrong asked Ms Cullen to condemn both the IRAs bombing of Enniskillen in 1987 and the dissidents Omagh bomb in 1998.

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Ms Cullen responded saying: Look, Ive said very clearly those were very dark days. As a community nurse, Ive held the hands of many people who lived through those periods.

Ive felt Ive heard and Ive seen their trauma. Ive seen what it does to them. Lets not go back there. Lets move forward and bring prosperity and hope to the people.

Asked about the exchange during Sinn Feins manifesto launch in west Belfast later on Wednesday, Ms McDonald said the party recognises the hurts of the past.

Pat Cullen is running for election because Pat Cullen is a very, very good woman, she is a formidable woman who has a track record second to none for public service, she said.

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All of us are working for the future, and that is not to discount the hurts of the past on all sides. We recognise that but we also know that together we need to make peace with each other and we need to find a pathway forward.

I dont believe in the course of an electoral campaign to seize on tragedies and hurts of the past to try and derail or challenge a candidate is the progressive way for us to get to that point of reconciliation.

This is a very serious matter. The experience that people had, the hurt and the loss that people experienced is real, its real human suffering and as political activists we are keenly aware of that, and we want to be part of the process of healing that and of moving forward.
Judge Mary Morrissey in the Circuit Civil Court on Wednesday approved a 15,000 settlement offer for a 13-year-old Cork schoolgirl who was injured when a Ryanair plane suddenly depressurized on its way to Croatia.

Barrister James Daly told the court that as a result of a sudden depressurization of the passenger cabin oxygen masks were deployed and the girl, who was only seven at the time, had become very distressed and frightened.

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The aircraft began to heavily shake and to rapidly descend, and the cabin was dark and became very cold, Mr Daly, who appeared with Alva Nolan of Gary Matthews Solicitors, said.

He said that when the girl's mother fitted an oxygen mask to her daughters face she became distressed and continually tried to remove the mask. The girl became pale and tearful.

The aircraft continued to descend rapidly and made an extremely violent emergency landing in Frankfurt, Germany, Mr Daly said.

Medical professionals boarded the aircraft to administer first aid as passengers, distressed and bleeding from their ears and noses, were directed to remain in their seats, he added.

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Judge Morrissey heard the girl from Cork had to wait with other passengers for 11 hours for another aircraft to take them on their onward journey to Zadar airport in Croatia.

Mr Daly said the girl "became terrified when re-boarding the second aircraft and was kicking and screaming while her mother brought her on board."

The court heard that in the weeks following the incident the young girl continued to suffer nosebleeds, headaches and nightmares. Eighteen months after the incident, she suffered ongoing nightmares and regularly woke up screaming.

Mr Daly said she was particularly vulnerable in that she suffered from asthma and had an attack when her oxygen mask was being applied by her mother.

Judge Morrissey approved the settlement offer and said the girl had suffered a very frightening experience.

This article was amended at 5pm on June 20th, 2024.
Former taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the pivot towards greener policies in Irish politics in recent years might never have happened without Eamon Ryan.

Speaking on Newstalk radio, Mr Varadkar paid tribute to the outgoing Green Party leader, who on Tuesday announced he was stepping down.

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He's somebody who I think really was in politics and is in politics for the right reasons. I, for one, am glad that the Greens were in Government with us and are in Government with us for this period.

Many of the things that have been done, like the climate change legislation, like the nature law, like pivoting towards public transport, like really upping our game in terms of climate action around retrofitting, local link and so on  a lot of that might not have happened or certainly wouldn't have happened as quickly without Eamon.

Mr Varadkar said he understood where Mr Ryans comments on the toxicity of social media, as he too had noticed a more gradual change in tone online during his 13 years in government.

It was probably a little bit more like the frog in the boiling water for me. You know, it didn't happen suddenly where we went from Opposition and you could see the change from, you could do no wrong to you can't do anything right.

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I see Sinn Fein now suddenly experienced that shift as well over the past few months even though they haven't been in government. So maybe that change happened more gradually for me, so I was less affected by it. I also got good at just shutting it out, to be honest, and ignoring it, which was probably a good thing.

Mr Varadkar added that he did not think Mr Ryans resignation would undermine the coalition government. The agreement that three parties made four years ago was an agreement of three parties, negotiated by lots of people, not just the party leaders and endorsed democratically by the membership and the public reps of all three parties.

So I think it's solid in that sense in a very detailed programme for government. What will, of course, be of significance is who becomes the leader of the Green Party now and what their basis for leadership will be and what their arguments will be becoming leader.

Meanwhile, Minister for Children and Integration Roderic OGorman has announced he will run to become the next leader of the Green Party.

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Deputy Green leader Catherine Martin also announced she will step back from her role, adding that she is not putting herself forward for the leadership contest.

Minister of State Pippa Hackett has received the backing of TD Ossian Smyth and Senator Pauline OReilly.

Ms Hackett, who has not declared her intention to run for leadership, received the public endorsement within 24 hours of Mr Ryan confirming he was stepping down.
Australias opposition party on Wednesday announced plans to build the nations first nuclear power plants as early as 2035.

The party argued the governments policies for decarbonising the economy with renewable energy sources, including solar, wind turbines, and green hydrogen, would not work.

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The policy announcement ensures the major parties will be divided on how Australia will curb its greenhouse gas emissions at elections due within a year. The parties have not gone to an election with the same carbon reduction policies since 2007.

Im very happy for the election to be a referendum on energy, on nuclear, on power prices, on lights going out, on who has a sustainable pathway for our country going forward, Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton told reporters.



Australias then defense minister Peter Dutton addresses Parliament House in Canberra (Rod McGuirk/AP)

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Seven government-owned reactors would be built on the sites of ageing coal-fired electricity plants in five of Australias six states, Mr Dutton said.

The first two would be built from 2035 to 2037 and the last in the 2040s. The estimated costs would be announced at a later date, he said.

The current centre-left government has rejected nuclear power generation in Australia as too expensive. Too many coal-fired generators would have been decommissioned before nuclear power could fill the gap.

Climate change and energy minister Chris Bowen accused the Liberal Party of serving Australias coal and gas industry lobbies.

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Its not really an announcement. We know that Mr Dutton wants to slow down the rollout of renewables and he wants to introduce the most expensive form of energy thats slow to build, Mr Bowen told reporters.

But today, weve seen no costs, weve seen no gigawatts, weve seen no detail. This is a joke. Its a serious joke because it threatens our transition from fossil fuels, Mr Bowen added.

Mr Bowens Labor Party came to power in the 2022 elections, promising deeper cuts to Australias greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 than the previous coalition government had committed to.

The previous Liberal Party-led government promised to reduce emissions by between 26% and 28% below 2005 levels by the end of the decade.

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Labor promised a 43% reduction, and the Parliament enshrined that target in law, creating difficulties for any future government that wanted to reduce it and offering certainty for investors.

Mr Dutton has ruled out announcing a new 2030 target before the next election. However, the major parties have agreed on a net-zero emissions target by 2050.

Mr Dutton said Labor could not reach its 2030 target with a policy toward relying solely on renewable energy.

A Liberal Party-led government would use nuclear power, renewable energy sources and significant amounts of gas, Mr Dutton said.

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I want to make sure that the Australian public understands today that we have a vision for our country to deliver cleaner electricity, cheaper electricity and consistent electricity, he added.

Australia has historically been one of the worlds worst greenhouse gas emitters on a per capita basis because of its heavy reliance on abundant reserves of cheap coal and gas.

The constant conflict between the major parties over the past 17 years on how to reduce emissions led to a carbon tax introduced by a Labor Party government in 2012 being repealed by a Liberal Party-led government in 2014.

Australias only reactor has produced nuclear isotopes for medical use in the Sydney suburb of Lucas Heights since 1958.

Mr Dutton said the country could only now consider introducing atomic power generation because the major parties had agreed in 2019 to the AUKUS partnership with the United States and Britain, which will deliver Australia a fleet of submarines powered by US nuclear technology.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Moscow and Pyongyang will sign an agreement that will bolster their ties and thanked North Korea for supporting the Kremlins policies in Ukraine.

Speaking at the start of his talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, the Russian leader said in remarks carried by Russian state Tass and RIA Novosti news agencies that the new fundamental document will form the basis of our ties for a long perspective.

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Mr Putin also hailed a close friendship between the two countries based on equality and respect of mutual interests, and noted their fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

The Russian leader arrived in North Korea early on Wednesday, Russian news agencies say.



Vladimir Putin said that Russia and North Korea want to co-operate closely to overcome US-led sanctions (Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

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Mr Putin said the two countries want to co-operate closely to overcome US-led sanctions in the face of intensifying confrontations with Washington.

The Russian president was met at Pyongyangs airport by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. They shook hands and embraced, and Mr Kim later joined Mr Putin in his car to personally guide him to Pyongyangs Kumsusan State Guest House, North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency said.

The agency described their meeting as a historic event that demonstrates the invincibility and durability of the two nations friendship and unity.

Making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, Mr Putin said that he appreciates the countrys firm support of his military actions in Ukraine. The Kremlin launched a full-scale invasion of the neighbouring country in 2022.

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He said the countries would continue to resolutely oppose what he described as Western ambitions to hinder the establishment of a multipolar world order based on justice, mutual respect for sovereignty, considering each others interests.



Russian President Vladimir Putin has made his first trip to North Korea in 24 years (Gavriil Grigorov/AP)

Mr Putins visit comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Russias war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that would enhance the threat posed by Mr Kims nuclear weapons and missile program.

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In the North Korean capital of Pyongyang, the streets were decorated with portraits of Putin and Russian flags.

A banner on a building said: We warmly welcome the President of the Russian Federation.



Russian President Vladimir Putin is welcomed upon his arrival to meet with North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un at the Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo/AP)

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Mr Putin also said in his published remarks that Russia and North Korea will develop trade and payment systems that are not controlled by the West and jointly oppose sanctions against the countries, which he described as illegal, unilateral restrictions.

North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Mr Putin said the countries will also expand co-operation in tourism, culture and education.

The visit comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Mr Putins war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that would enhance the threat posed by Mr Kims nuclear weapons and missile program.



North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un stands waiting to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Military, economic and other exchanges between North Korea and Russia have sharply increased since Mr Kim visited the Russian Far East in September for a meeting with Mr Putin, their first since 2019.

US and South Korean officials have accused the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid.

Both Pyongyang and Moscow have denied accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple UN Security Council sanctions Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Mr Kims continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking US-led efforts to impose fresh UN sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of UN sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine.

Mr Putin has continuously sought to rebuild ties with Pyongyang as part of efforts to restore his countrys clout and its Soviet-era alliances.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have signed a comprehensive strategic partnership that includes a vow of mutual aid if either country is attacked.

Mr Putin and Mr Kim spoke face-to-face for about two hours during a summit in Pyongyang  a meeting that was originally planned for one hour, Russian state media said.

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It was not clear what kind of assistance the partnership deal would call for, but it could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War.

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Both leaders described it as a major upgrade of their relations, covering security, trade, investment and cultural and humanitarian ties.

The Russian leaders first visit to North Korea in 24 years comes amid growing concerns over an arms arrangement in which North Korea provides Russia with badly needed munitions for Moscows war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Mr Kims nuclear weapons and missile programme.



Details of what the pact entails are unclear at the moment (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

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Speaking before the summit, Mr Putin thanked Kim for North Koreas support in Ukraine and said the two countries would sign the agreement to boost their partnership as both fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council sanctions over its weapons programme, while Russia also faces sanctions by the US and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Earlier on Thursday, Mr Putin travelled on to Vietnam for the next leg of his trip, where he will make a state visit to strengthen ties with a long-time partner.



The leaders have vowed even closer cooperation (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

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Before the summit, Mr Putin hailed ties that date to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of the Second World War, and Moscows support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

Mr Kim said relations between Moscow and Pyongyang are now even closer than during Soviet times and called Putins visit an opportunity to solidify their fiery friendship.

The North Korean leader vowed his countrys full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity. It was not immediately clear what that support might look like.

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Huge crowds greeted the leaders in Pyongyang (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Mr Kim has used similar language in the past, consistently saying North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russias interests and blaming the crisis on the US-led Wests hegemonic policy.

He also hailed Russias important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.

Before the talks, Mr Kim welcomed Mr Putin with a lavish ceremony in the citys main square, where he introduced key members of the North Korean leadership including foreign minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and the leaders powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong.

Huge crowds lined up on the streets to greet Mr Putins motorcade, chanting Welcome Putin and waving flowers and North Korean and Russian flags.



The pair hailed their fiery friendship and historical ties (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Mr Putin was accompanied by several top officials, including deputy prime minister Denis Mantrurov, defence minister Andrei Belousov and foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, according to his foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov.

US and South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid.

Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple UN Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Mr Kims continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking US-led efforts to impose fresh UN sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.



Mr Putins motorcade travels down a main boulevard in Pyongyang (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of UN sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear programme, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine.

US and South Korean officials have said they are discussing options for a new mechanism for monitoring the North.

South Korean analysts say that Mr Kim will likely seek stronger economic benefits and more advanced military technologies from Russia, although his more sensitive discussions with Mr Putin are not likely to be made public.

While Mr Kims military nuclear programme now includes developmental intercontinental ballistic missiles that can potentially reach the US mainland, he may need outside technology help to meaningfully advance his programme.



Mr Putin was joined by senior ministers at the visit (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

There are already possible signs that Russia is assisting North Korea with technologies related to space rockets and military reconnaissance satellites, which Mr Kim has described as crucial for monitoring South Korea and enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles.

The North may also seek to increase labour exports to Russia and other illicit activities to gain foreign currency in defiance of UN Security Council sanctions, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas main spy agency.

There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and further promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.





 The official welcome ceremony of the President of the Russia Vladimir Putin by Chairman of State Affairs of the DPRK Kim Jong Un took place in Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung Square, during which the two Heads of State introduced members of their delegations.#RussiaDPRK  pic.twitter.com/mfq7mr0YCp  MFA Russia  (@mfa_russia) June 19, 2024

In Washington, US secretary of state Antony Blinken said Mr Putins visit to North Korea illustrates how Russia tries, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

Mr Blinken told reporters following a meeting with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg: North Korea is providing significant munitions to Russia  and other weapons for use in Ukraine. Iran has been providing weaponry, including drones, that have been used against civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Mr Kims weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the United States, South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle.

The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tonnes of refuse on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with loudspeakers.

North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961, which experts say necessitated Moscows military intervention if the North came under an attack.

The deal was discarded after the collapse of the USSR, replaced by a pact in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances. It was not immediately clear if the new deal provides a similar level of protection as the 1961 treaty.
Rishi Sunak was confronted by the mother of a Manchester Arena bombing victim over delays to introducing a law in her sons memory.

Figen Murray has been campaigning for tougher security measures at public venues after her son Martyn Hett was among the 22 killed in the 2017 suicide bombing at an Ariana Grande concert.

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The British prime minister told her, just hours before he called the UK general election, that he would bring in Martyns Law before the parliamentary summer break.

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Last week, the Conservative manifesto pledged to introduce the legislation to help protect against terror attacks.

But on Wednesday, Ms Murray told Mr Sunak that there has been nothing since he promised her 18 months ago that he would hurry up and pass the law.

In a voice message played on an LBC Radio phone-in, she said: You have put in your manifesto that Martyns Law is a priority.

I dont know what you mean by that because you promised me 18 months ago, in a phone call on what would have been Martyns 35th birthday, that youre going to really hurry up with Martyns Law and you are very committed to it.

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There has been nothing since then. So what exactly do you mean by prioritising? Can you please put a number, a figure to it in terms of how many months thats going to still be?

Rishi Sunak insisted he was still committed to bringing forward Martyns Law. Photo: Ben Birchall/PA.

The UK prime minister responded by stressing his commitment to enacting Martyns Law if the Tories defy opinion polls and hold on to power at the election.

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He told the radio show: If were re-elected, Parliament will re-form at the beginning of July and well be able to introduce the legislation before summer recess.

Before summer recess is what I told Figen and that will still be the case.

He continued: I can understand why Figen would like to have seen this done even quicker, but it is important that it works properly. And that takes time to get right.

It is reasonable to take the time to ensure the law is effective because it will impact thousands and thousands of businesses, he added.

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Ms Murray has previously said she felt let down and misled after Mr Sunak told her he would introduce the legislation before the summer break, before calling an election later that day, leading to Parliament being dissolved before Martyns Law could be enacted.

It would require venues and local authorities in the UK to have training requirements and preventative plans in place against terror attacks.

The opposition Labour party has said it will introduce Martyns Law as a priority if elected.
The UK Labour Party is on course to win more than 450 seats and the biggest majority of any post-war British government, according to a poll of almost 20,000 people.

The poll by Ipsos, published on Tuesday, estimated Labour would win 43 per cent of the vote in the upcoming UK general election and secure 453 seats, giving it a majority of 256 and reducing the Conservatives to just 115 seats.

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That would be the Tories worst result ever, exceeding the previous record of 156 seats in 1906, and mean senior figures such as Grant Shapps, Penny Mordaunt, Gillian Keegan, Johnny Mercer and Jacob Rees-Mogg losing their seats.

British finance minister Jeremy Hunt faces a close battle in his Surrey constituency of Godalming and Ash, while the poll has cabinet ministers James Cleverly and Kemi Badenoch clinging on.

That result could be even worse for the Conservatives, with Ipsos estimating a lower range of just 99 seats for the party that won a commanding 80-seat majority five years ago.

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The poll forecasts a majority of more than 250 seats for Keir Starmers Labour Party (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Kelly Beaver, chief executive of Ipsos UK and Ireland said: Labour is increasing its 2019 vote share across the country, especially in Scotland and the North East, while the Conservatives are losing votes in all regions  especially in the East and South of England, and across the Midlands.

What is perhaps most concerning for them are signs in the data that they are particularly losing vote share in the areas where they were strongest in 2019.

In further good news for Labour, the poll suggests that the partys former leader Jeremy Corbyn, now standing as an independent, is set to lose the Islington North constituency he has represented since 1983.

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The poll used the multilevel with poststratification (MRP) technique to model individual constituency results based on a survey of 19,689 British adults and took place between June 7th-12th.

It is the second poll released this week to use the technique, following a Survation poll on Monday that estimated a similarly massive Labour majority.

Grant Shapps conceded the Conservatives looked to be heading towards defeat (James Manning/PA)

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Forecasts of a Labour landslide have prompted gloom from some Tories, with the British prime minister forced to insist on Monday that his party could still win the election after Mr Shapps, the defence secretary, conceded that defeat was likely.

The party has responded by going on the attack, challenging Labour over taxation and warning voters that victory for the opposition could give it a blank cheque and put the party in power for a generation.

The Ipsos poll is the first MRP survey to be conducted entirely after Nigel Farage announced his bid to become MP for Clacton.

The poll suggests Mr Farage is on course to win that seat, with his Reform UK party also picking up Lee Andersons Ashfield constituency and possibly one other seat with 12 per cent of the national vote.

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That puts the party level in terms of seats with the Greens, who Ipsos suggests could win in Bristol Central, North Herefordshire and Waveney Valley while losing their current seat in Brighton Pavilion to Labour.

The poll also sees the Liberal Democrats making gains in the South East and South West, increasing its number of seats to 38 and regaining its position as the third party in the Commons.

Ipsos said the fate of the SNP was still very much up in the air, with the party running a close second to Labour in Scotland and expected to win around 15 seats, a significant reduction on the 48 seats it won in 2019.

But the pollster acknowledged some 117 seats were still too close to call, with small changes in the parties performance possible leading to big changes in the final outcome.

Even so, Ipsos estimated that Labour would still win more than 400 seats before even considering those that were too close to call.

Ms Beaver said the poll was just a snapshot of peoples current voting intentions and there was still time for things to change.

She added: But this data, in line with most of the evidence that we have seen both in the run-up to this election and since the campaign started, in terms of the mood of the nation and real election results in local elections and by-elections, suggests that the British political scene could be heading for yet another significant shift.
A bipartisan US congressional delegation has met the Dalai Lama at his residence in Indias Dharamshala.

The move sparked anger from China, which views the exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism as a dangerous separatist.

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The visit came after Washington and Beijing restarted talks after several years of turmoil that began after the imposition of tariffs on Chinese goods under the Trump administration.

Relations deteriorated even more following the Covid-19 pandemic and the rising military tensions in the South China Sea and in the Taiwan Strait.



Republican representative Michael McCaul was greeted by the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, India (Office of the Dalai Lama via AP)

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The high-level delegation, led by Republican representative Michael McCaul and including Democratic former house speaker Nancy Pelosi, arrived at the hillside town, which the Nobel Peace Prize laureate has made his headquarters since fleeing from Tibet after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959.

There, they met with officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile, which wants more autonomy for Tibet.

Beijing does not recognise the exiled administration and has not held any dialogue with the representatives of the Dalai Lama since 2010.

After meeting the spiritual leader on Wednesday, the seven US members of congress addressed hundreds who had gathered at a monastery just outside the 88-year-old Dalai Lamas residence, waving American and Tibetan flags.

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They told the crowd that a key focus of their visit was to underscore the Resolve Tibet Act, passed by the US congress last week, and aims to encourage dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials with the hopes of finding a peaceful resolution between Tibet and Beijing.

The bill should now be sent to the White House to be signed into law by President Joe Biden.

The bill is a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet, Ms Pelosi said, eliciting applause.



An exiled Tibetan was among those celebrating the event (AP)

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Mr McCaul, the Republican representative, said the bill reaffirms American support for the Tibetan right to self-determination.

Just this week our delegation received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning us not to come here but we did not let the CCP intimidate us for we are here today, he said, as people cheered.

However, the visit and newly passed bill triggered a swift backlash from Beijing.

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Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, urged Washington not to support Tibetan independence and said the White House must not sign the bill into law, or China will take resolute measures.

Its known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion, Mr Lin added, urging the American side to have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world.



Democratic former House speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the public after the meeting (AP)

The Dalai Lama denies being a separatist and says he only advocates substantial autonomy and protection for Tibets native Buddhist culture.

The Tibetan spiritual leader has a history of engaging with US officials, including meeting American presidents  from Jimmy Carter to Barack Obama  except for Donald Trump. He has yet to meet Mr Biden since he took office in 2021.

The Dalai Lama is expected to travel to the US on Thursday for medical treatment on his knees, but it is unclear if he will meet any officials while he is there.

Meanwhile, Beijing has repeatedly asked the US not to interfere with Tibetan affairs and has argued that the people of Tibet have enjoyed social stability and economic growth under its rule.

While India considers Tibet to be part of China, it hosts Tibetan exiles.
Chris Tomlin performs during Holy Forever World Tour | photos by Makayla Symmonds

Nashville, Tenn. (June 17, 2024)  Internationally renowned Christian music artist Chris Tomlin will release a new version of his critically acclaimed song Holy Forever this Friday with rising sensation Cain. The global impact of this song, written alongside Brian Johnson, Jenn Johnson, Phil Wickham, and Jason Ingram, continues 2 years after its original release as a single off his Grammy-nominated album Always.

Since that time, the Grammy, Billboard Music Awards, and K-LOVE Award nominated Holy Forever has reached RIAA Gold status, remained at #1 on the charts for six weeks, became Tomlins 21st career radio #1 single, and began an undeniable movement as church leaders across the globe discovered the song and began adding it to their church services. That attention, and the remarkable run at radio, triggered a global response to the song. Holy Forever has totaled more than 160 Million streams to date.

Chris recently wrapped the European leg of his Holy Forever World Tour packing venues like SSE Arena in Belfast, Ahoy Arena in Rotterdam and Mitsubishi Live Arena in Dusseldorf. This overwhelming response has continued in Canada this summer with additional dates added to the schedule due to demand. The tour will pick up again this fall with a second U.S. leg.

Accomplished writer and worship leader Pat Barrett will join as special guest in Canada and Tauren Wells and Cain will join for the fall dates.

We are so expectant for what God is going to do on these nights, and we're believing for countless life-changing testimonies to be cultivated during these nights together," shared Cain.

Tickets are moving quickly with some dates already sold out, more information is available at ChrisTomlin.com.
G.L.O God's Love Only - "Victory" | INOV8 Public Relations

ASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 18, 2024)  G.L.O God's Love Only is thrilled to announce the release of her latest single Victory to Christian radio today. This uplifting and rhythmic track, produced by Alex (Ace1) Espinoza, is poised to inspire listeners with its powerful message of triumph and faith.

"Victory" is more than just a song; its a battle anthem for believers. G.L.O describes it as a musical reminder of the victory that believers have in Christ Jesus. Drawing from Ephesians 2:6-7, she emphasizes, Because Christ was victorious on the Cross, rose on the third day, and is seated at the right hand of the Father, so are we. This song serves to encourage and remind believers of their position in Christ.

The track blends an energetic beat with motivational lyrics, creating a fun and uplifting experience that will have listeners praising and dancing for the Lord. In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, "Victory" reinforces the message that, in Jesus, we have peace and triumph. As John 16:33 declares, These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

G.L.Os mission with "Victory" is to proclaim God's Word and inspire believers to stand firm in their faith, despite the trials they may face. The song encapsulates her dedication to spreading the Gospel through her music, ensuring that her listeners are reminded of the enduring strength and victory they possess in Christ.

G.L.O Gods Love Only continues to make waves in the Christian music scene with her unique style and unwavering faith. "Victory" is set to resonate across Christian Rhythmic and Christian CHR radio formats, inviting listeners to embrace their faith and celebrate their victories in Jesus.

Watch the Music Video:

https://youtu.be/q9KAqIp7B-Y

Connect with G.L.O God's Love Only:

https://www.glogodsloveonly.com/

https://www.facebook.com/glogodsloveonly

https://instagram.com/g.l.ogodsloveonly

https://twitter.com/glogodsloveonly
Redemption Praise - "God Is In The House" | INOV8 Public Relations

NASHVILLE, TN (JUNE 18, 2024) - The vibrant and spirit-filled sounds of Redemption Praise are set to inspire and uplift as their latest single, God Is In The House, is officially released to Gospel radio today. This dynamic track, penned by the visionary Leanette Lopez, recorded live, and produced at Gaither Studio by Jerroll Lehman, promises to bring a fresh wave of spiritual revival and praise to listeners everywhere.

God Is In The House is a testament to Leanette Lopezs enduring faith and musical journey, which began at the tender age of six. Her early experiences singing in church and writing songs by thirteen laid the foundation for a life dedicated to music and ministry. Leanettes profound ability to connect with diverse audiences is evident in this powerful new single, which seamlessly blends Gospel and Praise & Worship genres to create an atmosphere of spiritual awakening.

Inspired by a moment of spiritual revival during a church service, Leanette Lopezs heartfelt composition captures the essence of Pentecostal fire and charismatic worship. The songs infectious chorus, GOD IS IN THE HOUSE, I FEEL THE FIRE, FIRE, HES IN THE HOUSE, resonates with an anthemic fervor that has already ignited congregations and youth services across various communities. Translated into Spanish, the song continues to touch hearts, showcasing Leanettes versatility and passion for spreading the message of Gods presence.

Releasing God Is In The House to Christian radio is a significant milestone for Redemption Praise, says Leanette Lopez. This song has been a source of encouragement and renewal for many, and I am thrilled to share its uplifting message with a wider audience. Its a different kind of revival now, focusing on the message of the song and the move of the spirit. I pray it moves you as much as it has many others.

Leanette Lopezs journey, marked by personal loss and triumphs, is reflected in the authenticity and depth of her music. With over 50 songs in her repertoire, Leanettes influences range from the soulful Ashely Cleveland and CeCe Winans to the transformative Bethel Music and Lauren Daigle. This rich tapestry of inspiration, combined with Leanettes own unique voice, defines the sound of Redemption Praise.

As Redemption Praise continues to carve out a significant place within the Christian music landscape, God Is In The House stands as a beacon of hope and a call to worship for all who listen. This release is a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the profound impact of music to unite and heal.

About Redemption Praise:

Redemption Praise represents the culmination of Leanette Lopezs journey through faith and music. Leanettes work under Redemption Praise is a testament to the power of music as worship and a source of comfort and inspiration. Through her distinctive sound and evocative lyrics, Leanette invites listeners to explore a realm where music and faith converge, offering hope and strength for all who embark on this journey with her.

Connect with Redemption Praise:

https://redemptionpraise.com

https://facebook.com/redemptionpraisemusic
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Eating outRestaurant news Five things we learnt at the Melbourne Good Food Symposium How to succeed in an industry facing one of the toughest times in its history was a theme of a panel of hospitality pros. Dani Valent June 19, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

The famously long queues that form at each of Lune Croissanteries five stores dont necessarily translate into large profits, owner Kate Reid admitted at the inaugural Good Food symposium. Our margins are getting smaller and smaller, she said. Its an incredibly expensive business to run. The Good Food Hospitality Symposium panel, from left to right, moderator Dani Valent, Mulberry CEO Leon Kennedy, Patrick Ryan-Parker from Lightspeed, Lunes Kate Reid, Almay Jordaan from Old Palm Liquor and Neighbourhood Wine, Charlie Carrington from Atlas Dining and Ardyn Bernoth, national editor of Good Food. Paper-thin margins for operators of restaurants, cafes and bars was an overriding theme of the hospitality symposium, sponsored by Lightspeed, held at Collingwood Yards on Monday night. A tight grasp of numbers, a clear identity and business values were three keys to success agreed upon by the panel, which included Melbourne restaurateurs Charlie Carrington and Almay Jordaan, Leon Kennedy, chief executive of Mulberry Group, which owns seven local restaurants, and Reid. They spoke to an audience of 150 hospitality operators, workers and keen diners.

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Kind of scary: The real reason so many restaurants are closing Hospitality has always been hard, said Kennedy. Now its just hard with QR codes. Whether the economic indicators are rosy or rough, Kennedy believes its always essential to constantly assess strategy and refine business identity. The Mulberry Group looked to AI to see how its Liminal cafe is perceived. Jason South He drove an initiative at Mulberry Group, owner of Liminal, Hazel and Lilac Wine, which aggregated online reviews of their venues and analysed them with AI, assessing whether customer keywords matched the vision for each business. The research revealed a big disconnect between the companys vision for city cafe Liminal and the way diners saw it. We had notions of being a hotel without rooms, a concierge of some kind, but the keywords from our customers showed that they valued us for speed and quality, he said. And we thought, thats actually what we do really well. Lets just do more of that.

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Panelists Almay Jordaan from Old Palm Liquor and Neighbourhood Wine (left) and Charlie Carrington from Atlas Dining. Almay Jordaan used a different type of data to make menu changes at Neighbourhood Wine, her Fitzroy North restaurant. We looked closely at the labour associated with making our own chips and realised it didnt make sense, she said. Its the peeling, the blanching, the frying during service, not to mention the cost of oil, which has spiked. It turned into a very expensive bowl of hand-cut chips, and it had to go. We want a solvent restaurant. Staying solvent drives every aspect of Charlie Carringtons businesses, which span Atlas Dining, a South Yarra tasting menu restaurant, and Atlas Weekly, which delivers meal boxes to consumers. When youre running a million miles an hour and youve got so much stuff to do, staying on top of GST, PAYG, and your super can seem very boring, but if you let them spiral out of control, it can turn into a horror story really quickly, he said. We pay all those obligations weekly.

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The Good Food Hospitality Symposium, from left to right, Mulberry chief executive Leon Kennedy, Patrick Ryan-Parker from Lightspeed and Lunes Kate Reid. Kate Reid is looking long-term by investing in staff and fostering a positive work culture. You cannot place too much importance on culture, she said. Its about understanding employees needs and creating a workplace that fulfils them. Bosses sometimes lament the work ethics of Gen Z employees, born between 1997 and 2012, but Reid believes this generation can excel when met halfway. They expect work-life balance, they rightly expect to be remunerated correctly, she said. We have many Gen Z employees at Lune that will have incredible lifelong careers in hospitality and will positively impact the future of it.

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Food Kate Reid of cult croissanterie Lune on her Sydney expansion plans Panellist Patrick Ryan-Parker works with the payment platform Lightspeed. He urged businesses to pass on costs. In an industry that is struggling at the moment, its funny that businesses wouldnt surcharge when theyre subject to merchant fees, he said. Why should restaurants be paying for peoples frequent flyer points every time they accept a credit card? It would be great if the industry standardised it and it became the norm. Five ways to save your business Be clear on your strategy: do your customers perceive your business the same way you do? Dont compromise on values that will attract and retain staff and engage customers. Data. Spend time with your numbers, analyse them, act on them. Be up-to-date with your obligations. Tax and superannuation can easily spiral out of control if you dont set money aside. Costs: if youre paying more (for goods, merchant fees and wages, for example), charge more to recoup those costs.

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the safe Liberal seat of Braddon is up for grabs at the next election.

The PM was in Burnie, in Tasmanias north-west this afternoon, which sits in the electorate of Braddon.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

The once marginal seat historically swung with the governing party but bucked that trend when it re-elected Liberal MP Gavin Pierce when the Coalition lost government in 2022.

Albanese says Pierces retirement represents a real opportunity to return the seat to Labor at the next election.

We certainly will have a very strong candidate, and we have a number of people who put themselves forward to be the candidate for Braddon at this time who have expressed an interest and that interest has just gone up, Albanese said.

[Pierces retirement] means that this seat is very much up for grabs. And we want a strong voice for Braddon in government as part of a Labor government and will be here campaigning very strongly.
More than 40 witnesses were called to give evidence. Prosecutors said Stein lied about where Charlise was when she was missing, what he was doing in the hours after he left home in a ute towing a boat and falsely claiming her mother was responsible. An auctioneer, or a kidnapping The Crown case was that Stein killed Charlise at his familys Mount Wilson mansion, Wildenstein, on the night of January 11 or the morning of January 12, 2022. Her mother was staying 1 hours away at Steins caravan in Lower Portland. Loading She said, Can I go with Daddy, Mum?  Kallista Mutten told the court. I said, Yes, of course. 

Stein texted Mutten that night to say they were safe and sound and he was cooking up some chicken while Charlise played and watched TV. At 10.06am on January 12, Stein messaged Mutten: Am literally about to walk out the door. Charsey is staying put in bed. Shes wrecked, and already fallen back to sleep. Mutten said Stein told her Charlise was sick so he had left her in the care of a female auctioneer at the property who was happy to mind her. Mutten said Stein collected her from the caravan park, and they travelled to Surry Hills to buy drugs and had sex in Centennial Park. At 8.44pm, they arrived back at Wildenstein to find it in darkness, prompting Mutten to search and call multiple local hospitals. Kallista Mutten outside the NSW Supreme Court in Parramatta. Credit: Kate Geraghty

That night, Mutten went through Steins phone and found evidence he had been on dating sites. The court heard she twice left the home in Steins ute and sent texts to friends, including saying, He left my daughter with someone, and shes gone. Steins story then evolved. Mutten said Stein called his mother who said, the auctioneer lady is not the auctioneer lady and he suggested his former criminal associates may have kidnapped Charlise. Loading Through tears, Mutten told the court Stein said if she called the police, theyll kill her [Charlise]. A fake search to find Charlise

The Crown said Stein put on a pretence to find Charlise to cover up what he had done. On the afternoon of January 13, Stein was captured on CCTV filling a boat with fuel and using a gift card to buy five 20-kilogram bags of sand and sealant at Bunnings. In the back of his red Holden Colorado ute was a large item, said to be the barrel, covered by a tarp. Phone data tracked him stopping at boat ramps in Rose Bay, Drummoyne and Windsor, and searching for the Sackville ferry crossing and Colo River. Justin Stein drove his red ute across Sydney. Police say the barrel with Charlises body was in the tray. Credit: NSW Police

Crown prosecutor Ken McKay, SC, said Stein filled the barrel with sand and dumped it. Mutten said Stein returned to Wildenstein in the early hours of January 14, telling her Charlise was not with his associates, and she could call police. In the triple zero call from Mount Wilson at 8.15am, Mutten told the operator she had last seen Charlise two nights ago and she was here, I wasnt here, my partner was here. Prosecutors said Stein buried the murder weapon, a .22 calibre BSA bolt-action rifle, on a Mount Wilson fire trail. The gun, which had Steins fingerprint on it, was found in February 2022. An attempt to blame Kallista

Steins lawyers disputed the date of Charlises death and argued her mother pulled the trigger. Stein said Charlise was sick on the morning of January 12, but insisted he put her in his car before collecting her mother from the caravan park. Stein said the trio travelled to Surry Hills and bought drugs but denied the couple had sex, claiming Charlise watched him walk his dog while her mother was shooting up in the toilets. At Mount Wilson that night, Stein claimed he asked Charlise if she wanted anything to eat and then worked on a car in the shed. A sketch of Justin Stein giving evidence at his trial in the NSW Supreme Court. Credit: Vincent de Gouw

Stein said he heard a gunshot, then Charlise screamed his name and said, Mummy, no, before a second gunshot. He said he saw Mutten standing over her daughters body with a rifle, and she demanded he get a tarp. Stein said when he returned from the shed, there was no sign of Mutten or Charlise and there was a square of dirt cut out of the ground. He said he smoked a joint and fell asleep. The next day, on January 13, Stein said he loaded what he believed to be an empty barrel onto his ute and stopped at Bunnings to buy supplies for renovations to his caravan. Loading He said he assumed Charlises body was put in the barrel when he was not looking, and he threw up upon discovering it that night.
Multiple people, including a baby, were at a home north of Brisbane when police shot a wanted man on Wednesday morning.

Police were searching for the man at a Keith Street property in Caboolture South when an altercation occurred, prompting at least one officer from the tactical crime squad to fire their gun.

CCTV footage obtained by Nine News from a neighbours property shows several police cars, an ambulance, and officers rushing down the street just after 10.30am.

One of the officers can suddenly be heard yelling: Police! Dont move, dont move.
Former champion jockey Danny Nikolic will face a Melbourne court next month on charges including aggravated burglary, stalking, intentionally damaging property and theft of a motor vehicle.

Nikolic, who rode Mummify to win the Caulfield Cup in 2003, was charged with two other burglary offences as part of an investigation by the Moonee Valley crime investigation unit, according to information released to this masthead by Melbourne Magistrates Court.

Danny Nikolic (right) before a VCAT appearance in 2016 with his friend and former lawyer Pat Lennon. Credit: Jesse Marlow

Police from the Prahran family violence investigation unit have charged the 49-year-old with unlawful assault in a separate matter.

Both matters are due for a mention hearing in Broadmeadows Magistrates Court on July 8. The court did not provide specific information about the two alleged incidents, such as locations or dates.
A father found himself preparing to sacrifice his life to save his daughters, after 30 freezing minutes in high swells off Western Australias north-west coast at the weekend.

Perth boatie, 41-year-old Av Mason, and children Laila, 13, and Evander, 16, are lucky to have each other after a rogue wave capsized their new $170,000 boat on Sunday.

Evander, Av and Laila Mason look out to the ocean that so nearly took all their lives. Credit: Av Mason

The family from the outer suburb of Ellenbrook were spending a week together in Shark Bay, on the westernmost point of the continent, celebrating their wife and mother Carlas successful battle with a brain tumour.

On the final morning of their holiday, the family decided to take one last trip out on the boat after some local divers offered to show them a new fishing spot.
When asked how Clive Palmer had approached him to come to Australia, American uber-conservative commentator Tucker Carlson revealed his waggish side.

A text message. Which is an emerging technology in the United States where you use your phone to do some chat with people, he said.

Tucker Carlson and Clive Palmer launch their event series in Brisbane at one of Palmers homes. Credit: Glenn Hunt

Of course there is more to Carlson than sarcasm. He has been called the most influential voice in right-wing media.

A former Fox News commentator who continues to argue that the 2020 US presidential election was rigged, Carlson now runs his own media outlet and broadcasts on X.
Peter Dutton is asking Australians to trust him on nuclear energy in the brazen hope they will mistake a Jatz cracker for a three-course meal.

The opposition leader names seven sites for nuclear power stations and commits to federal ownership to get them built, but everything else is unknown.

Dutton is being incredibly bold in telling voters the basic concepts of his plan so far out from the next election  a rare thing in politics these days and especially difficult when it comes with big political risks. The problem is that he offers so little substance to support his soundbites.

In fact, his plan has two black holes, before getting to countless questions about secondary details.
Members of the Muslim community have lashed the Minns governments controversial solution to Sydneys cemeteries crisis, saying it is privatisation by stealth and that the faith was losing control over its own destiny.

The Catholic Cemeteries and Crematoria Trust Bill 2024 is Lands and Property Minister Steve Kampers solution to the vexed problem of the looming demand for burial plots, and the legislation passed the lower house of parliament on Tuesday night after the budget was handed down.

The Minns governments solution to the vexed cemetery crisis has been criticised by members of the Muslim community. Credit: Steven Siewert

The bill legislates the governments two-operator model: allowing the state-owned operator Metropolitan Memorial Parks to work alongside the Catholic Church. The latter would retain control over five cemeteries on crown lands: Kemps Creek, Liverpool, Sydneys newest cemetery Varroville, Wallacia and a portion of Rookwood, the largest necropolis in the southern hemisphere, established in 1868.

But Kampers solution to the political paralysis has been condemned by parts of the cemetery sector, with accusations the legislation will give control of essential social infrastructure to the Catholic Church.
Almost every Australian capital city will hit record property prices in the next year, a new report has shown, as demand continues to outstrip supply.

Australias overall capital city median house price was forecast to grow by 4 to 7 per cent, hitting a new high of $1.16 million to $1.19 million over the next financial year, Domains FY25 Price Forecast Report released on Thursday showed.

Sydney was expected to take the lead with its median tipped to crack $1.7 million by the end of next financial year. House price growth in the harbour city was forecast to increase by 6 to 8 per cent, reaching a median of $1.73 million to $1.76 million.

But experts say a two-speed market is likely to persist, with Melbourne and Canberra house prices to record the slowest growth, if not flatline.
Washington: The temporary pier that the US military built on short notice to rush humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip has largely failed in its mission, aid organisations say, and will probably end operations weeks earlier than originally expected.

In the month since it was attached to the shoreline, the $US230 million ($345 million) pier has been in service for only about 10 days. The rest of the time, it was being repaired after rough seas broke it apart, detached to avoid further damage or paused because of security concerns.

The US-built pier has been in operation for only 10 days. Credit: AP

The pier was never meant to be more than a stopgap measure while the Biden administration pushed Israel to allow more food and other supplies into Gaza through land routes, a far more efficient way to deliver relief. But even the modest goals for the pier are likely to fall short, some US military officials say.

When the pier was conceived, health authorities were warning that the territory was on the precipice of famine. In recent weeks, Israel has given relief organisations greater access, but the groups say the situation remains dire.
He has been aided by some wonderful support from his wife Kathleen, his family, as well as the broking community which rallied to support him with more than $400,000 raised through a GoFundMe page to provide much needed financial assistance for his recovery and ongoing care.
The positive response to our existing partnership with Realtair gives us great confidence in the benefits we can deliver for our customers. REA Group is well placed to help customers win more listings and with the added value that Realtair provides during the sales process, we can streamline the home buying experience for consumers.
Police have also arrested two individuals who acted as intermediaries between the doctors and the juvenile's father, a prominent builder, to facilitate financial transactions for the blood samples swap | (Photo: PTI)

Police have submitted their final report to the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) here detailing all evidence against a 17-year-old minor allegedly involved in the Porsche accident in Pune's Kalyani Nagar last month, an official has said.

The teen, who the police claim was drunk and driving the luxury car when it hit a two-wheeler in the early hours of May 19 killing two techies, including a woman, is lodged at an observation home in the city.

The police had filed a plea to allow them to treat the juvenile as an adult for the purpose of trial in the case. To support their case, the police have now submitted relevant evidence to the JJB, said the officer on Tuesday.

We have submitted all evidence to the JJB proving that he was behind the wheel of the Porsche car, starting from his house on the evening of May 19 until the accident occurred, he said.

The report includes corroborative statements from eyewitnesses who saw him driving the car, CCTV footage recovered during the investigation, and evidence of him consuming alcohol at Cosie Restaurant and Blak Club. In summary, we have provided a comprehensive final report demonstrating that the juvenile, in an inebriated condition, was driving the car and caused the death of two riders, he informed.

The crime branch officer said the report supports their plea to treat the juvenile as an adult for the trial.

Meanwhile, investigation has revealed that the juvenile's blood samples, which were swapped with those of his mother, were disposed of as bio-medical waste at Sassoon General Hospital, he said.

The minor boy's mother and father, along with two doctors Dr Ajay Taware and Dr Shrihari Halnor and a hospital employee, Atul Ghatkamble, are currently in jail for their alleged involvement in the blood sample swapping case.

Police have also arrested two individuals who acted as intermediaries between the doctors and the juvenile's father, a prominent builder, to facilitate financial transactions for the blood samples swap.
Indian pharmaceutical company Zydus Lifesciences denies allegations of quality issues in their antibiotic injection Biotax 1 gm. Earlier, it was reported that Nepal's Department of Drug Administration (DDA) suspended sales of the drug citing failing lab tests on batch F300460. The DDA deemed the batch unsafe due to non-compliance with production standards, potentially posing a health risk.

In response to queries sent by Business Standard, Zydus Lifesciences said the reports were "misleading and erroneous." They claim their product meets all quality specifications and the DDA's objection is only related to the amount of sterile water for injection provided with the medication.





ALSO READ: How Alkem's 83-year-old founder is remaking India's 4th-largest pharma firm Biotax 1 gm is used to treat bacterial infections and prevent infections during surgery. The suspension is unlikely to disrupt treatment as alternative medications exist.

Zydus Lifesciences maintains their product meets all quality specifications. In a statement, a company spokesperson claimed the DDA's objection is a misunderstanding related to the volume of sterile water for injection included with the medication.

Biotax 1 gm comes with 5 ml of sterile water, while the instructions allow for both intramuscular (3 ml) and intravenous (10 ml) administration. Zydus argues this doesn't impact safety and users can obtain additional sterile water separately for intravenous use. The company also highlights a clean safety record for Biotax 1 gm in Nepal since its launch in 2018.

Nepal's DDA routinely tests medications sold in the country to ensure quality. They acknowledge staffing limitations that hinder consistent recall monitoring. However, they have issued a notice on their website urging companies to initiate recalls of substandard drugs.
World Economic Forum's meeting in Dalian to forge unified vision for development

Xinhua) 10:21, June 19, 2024

Pan Jiang (1st L), director of the international cooperation department of the National Development and Reform Commission, Chen Shaowang (2nd L), mayor of Dalian and Liming Chen (3rd L), Chair of Greater China at the World Economic Forum attend a press conference in Beijing, capital of China, June 18, 2024. The World Economic Forum's 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions to be held from June 25 to 27 in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, aims to forge a unified vision for development, an official said at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Lu Yang)

BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The World Economic Forum's 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions to be held from June 25 to 27 in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, aims to forge a unified vision for development, an official said at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday.

Pan Jiang, director of the international cooperation department of the National Development and Reform Commission, said that under the theme "Next Frontiers for Growth," the Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2024 will convene global leaders from diverse sectors to collectively delve into innovative drivers and paths for global economic advancement.

"Through robust dialogue and collaboration, the conference aims to forge a unified vision for development," said Pan, adding that the meeting will also present the international community with the opportunities arising from China's modernization journey.

This year's event in Dalian will bring together around 1,600 leaders from business, government, civil society, international organizations and academia to forge partnerships and innovative, impact-oriented solutions that can spur a global economic recovery, according to officials at the press conference.

"Dalian will increase the influence of the forum with its openness and inclusiveness," said Chen Shaowang, mayor of Dalian.

Liming Chen, Chair of Greater China at the World Economic Forum, said that the upcoming meeting "will provide a timely opportunity to collaboratively advance the dynamic potential of innovation and set the stage for sustainable economic momentum, in the region and beyond."

"In the face of unprecedented global challenges, the power of collaboration and innovation cannot be overstated," said Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum, in a written message.

"The Annual Meeting of the New Champions will provide a unique platform for leaders to come together, share insights and drive forward-thinking solutions that can shape the future of the global economy," said Schwab.

During the meeting, six major topics will be discussed: a new global economy; China and the world; entrepreneurship in the age of AI; new frontiers for industries; investing in people; and connecting climate, nature and energy.

Pan Jiang (1st L), director of the international cooperation department of the National Development and Reform Commission, Chen Shaowang (2nd L), mayor of Dalian and Liming Chen (3rd L), Chair of Greater China at the World Economic Forum attend a press conference in Beijing, capital of China, June 18, 2024. The World Economic Forum's 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions to be held from June 25 to 27 in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, aims to forge a unified vision for development, an official said at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Lu Yang)

A press conference on the World Economic Forum's 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions is held in Beijing, capital of China, June 18, 2024. The World Economic Forum's 15th Annual Meeting of the New Champions to be held from June 25 to 27 in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, aims to forge a unified vision for development, an official said at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Lu Yang)

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Votorantim Cimentos Spain appoints new sustainability director

Muriel Bal By 19 June 2024

Votorantim Cimentos Espana has appointed Carmen Boulet as its new director for sustainability, strategy and new business, reporting directly to CEO, Alan Svaiter.



An industrial engineer with an MBA from Colombia Business School, Ms Boulet started her career at McKinsey & Co. During that period she accompanied large companies in the world of banking, energy and telecommunications in Latin America and European countries such as Germany, the UK and Norway, to outline their business strategy, including acquisitions or mergers processes. In 2016 she was appointed strategic partner manager lead for the Iberian peninsula by Google, followed three years later by a position of director of strategy at sustainability technology start-up Clarity Al.



At Votorantim Cimentos Espana, Ms Boulet will be leading the projects and initiatives to achieve Votorantim Cimentos' Sustainability 2030 commitments, as well as coordinating the company's strategy to find new business development opportunities in line with those commitments.

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Clara D. Bugg Shepherd, a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many, peacefully passed away on Friday, June 14, 2024.

Born on Oct. 22, 1932, Clara was the beloved daughter of Benjamin and Veanna Bugg. She was raised in the loving embrace of Wiley United Methodist Church and later found solace at New Covenant Fellowship Church.

Education played a significant role in Clara's life. Her primary education was with Chattanooga Public Schools and proudly graduated from Howard High School in 1950. Clara's thirst for knowledge led her to Clark College, in Atlanta.

There she was initiated into the Alpha Pi Chapter of the esteemed Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in 1951. After seeing the beautiful campus of Hampton in an Ebony Magazine, she set her sights on continuing her educational journey at the renowned Hampton Institute in Virginia. While there she obtained a bachelors degree. Clara's commitment to excellence propelled her to pursue a Masters degree in education from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Her unwavering loyalty to her HBCU alma mater was evident through her involvement in the National Hampton Alumni Association.

Clara's passion for teaching is represented by her 34-year tenure with Chattanooga Public Schools. Her dedication to nurturing young minds and shaping future generations left an indelible mark on countless students' lives.

Her love of teaching geography fueled her passion for travel. Clara's adventurous spirit took her on incredible journeys around the world. She explored over half of the states in the U.S. and ventured to countries across every continent, with the exception of two. Some of her most cherished experiences were walking the majestic Great Wall of China, outside of Beijing, and riding a camel to the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Clara's thirst for cultural immersion and exploration knew no bounds.

Clara was an active member of the Professional Teachers Association. As a dedicated Pearl member of the Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated she served on numerous committees embracing sisterhood and contributing to the betterment of her community. After retirement she volunteered at her church (NCFC) and the Tennessee Aquarium, where she served as an Emeritus Docent for over 20 years. She enjoyed being a member of the Diamond Duplicate Bridge Club. She would always start her day by reading her Bible and the Daily Word. Her most recent pastime was playing and teaching her caregivers how to play Kings in the Corner, solving word find puzzles and having snickers, brown cows, and those striped chocolate cookies or ice cream as a sweet treat! She also liked checking in on Facebook even though she thought everyone was sending her personal messages!

Clara's life was enriched by her loving relationships. She shared over 50 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Harold Shepherd Sr., until his passing. Together they raised two wonderful sons. Cherishing their reunion in heaven is Harold Jr. (Barbara), Edward (Angela) who brought immense joy and pride to their lives. Clara's legacy continues through her eleven grandchildren; James, Tasha, Chloe, Ashley, Maya, Samantha, Tori, Aaliyah, Aalicia, Aalyssa and Edward Jr. and three great grandchildren; Samiyah, Isiah and Robert Jr., who she loved and adored, and never missed a birthday; a Sister-In-Law, Geraldine Shepherd and a host of cousins and numerous friends. Their presence filled her heart with love and unforgettable memories.

So let us celebrate the blessing of Clara Bugg Shepherd and her journey of 91 years around the sun! Her fun loving wit, personality and uplifting spirit served as a beacon of inspiration for all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Public viewing will be held from 2-6 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, at the funeral home.

A 9 a.m. funeral service will take place on Friday, June, 21, at New Covenant Fellowship Church located at 1326 North Moore Road.

Interment will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery at 11 a.m. gate time.
The Rhea County Commission authorized Emergency Management Director Brad Harrison to enter into a mutual agreement with Meigs County Emergency Management for responses to incidents on the Tennessee River that separates the two counties.

With the recent two events that occurred at the river area, the drowning of two Cleveland men and the accidents at Blythes Ferry on both sides of the Tennessee River where cars went into the water; I met with Tony Finnell, Meigs County's emergency management agency director and we both agree that both counties need to respond to any incident on the river around Highway 60, 30 and 68. When a call comes in to dont have time to wait to see which county the incident is in. Lives are at stake and time is critical, said Director Harrison.

The Commission also voted to enter into an agreement with the State of Tennessee to build a gate on Fire Tower Road on Grandview Mountain to stop the excessive dumping of trash including mattresses and tires on the state property.

The state of Tennessee owns the whole property on Fire Tower Road said Chairman Jim Reed. He stated they are wanting to cut off peoples access beyond the parking lot area for the nature trails to eliminate or at least slow down the illegal dumping that occurs there.

They dont want to keep anyone who needs in out of Fire Tower Road. EMA Director Harrison will get with the state and give them a list of people who need access, said Chairman Reed. He further added that the state does not want to take the road over, that it would still be maintained by Rhea County Road Department.

Commissioners tabled a request from the Marc Anton Airport for support on an air show they are planning to have in September until they can get more information from the city of Dayton. Even though the airport is out in the county, it is owned and operated by the city of Dayton.

Airport Manager Bryan Janisch came before the commission requesting assistance for the airshow. He told commissioners that he already had $5,000 from the city of Dayton. He is estimating that the total cost of the event will be around $25,000. We have currently raised $12,000, said Mr. Janisch.

Airshows have been held out at the airport since the 70s and 80s, with the last one held in 1982. And it was like it just fell off. This event will not be an air show but an air carnival. Of the planes we are expecting to have are military warbirds, along with vintage civilian aircraft. There will be a DC-3 and a World War II Catalina flying patrol plane. We are expecting two to four thousand people to come and attend, said Mr. Janisch.

Mr. Janisch said this is open to the public, and they are wanting a lot of younger people to be in attendance as well.

Ask any pilot why they wanted to fly, and I guarantee most will stem it back from a memory in their childhood. Aviation needs younger people to get involved to become future pilots of tomorrow. This is our main goal of this air carnival. The secondary goal is to raise money for a veterans monument with the Save the T-33 project, said Mr. Janisch.

The T-33 is an old Air Force trainer from the 60s that was donated to the city of Dayton. In the beginning it was placed by the Dayton Chamber of Commerce but was later moved out to Marc Anton Airport. Mr. Janisch said that the plane has become dilapidated and in sore need of restoration.

Mr. Janisch introduced Andreas Montgomery of Montgomery Aero Enterprises. Mr. Montgomery is building a facility by the airport to restore and repair aircraft. He has volunteered to do the restoration to the T-33. Mr. Montgomery says his new company will be bringing in 50 new employees into the Rhea County workforce. They will be building new aviation park facilities on 41 acres by the airport to move from their current location in Calhoun.

At the end of the meeting during commissioner comments, Commissioner Mark Cashman brought up the subject of the boat ramp at Old Washington by Highway 30. Commissioner Cashman asked if there was any update on where the Commission wanted answers from the contractor on why the boat ramp was not according to what the commissioners expected.

County Executive Jim Vincent told Mr. Cashman and the commissioners that, You cant go after the contractor until you get a professional study done by the architect on this project."

Commissioner Cashman then asked, Does the county not have anyone to go behind on these projects to check to see if they are being done correctly?

Chairman Jim Reed then stepped in and said that it is the job of each commissioner to check on projects in their district, as well as projects around the county and see what is happening with them.

County Executive Vincent said that for years, the county has not been professional with its contacts. We dont have a superintendent to go behind and see that things are being done correctly.

Commissioner Nick Welch agreed with Chairman Reed and added, We need to make sure the language of the contracts are clear and concise as to how the project is to be done. That is where accountability starts on these projects.

County Executive Vincent said they can hunt out good people to do work on projects, but a lot of time the bid process gets in the way of getting a good contractor.

After concluding on the boat ramp, Commissioner Cashman then asked about the tire washer being installed at the landfill.

County Executive Vincent said he has not asked about it lately, but reported that the first phase of construction on the new part of the landfill is near completion with the entire height of the vault being incapsulated to contain the leachate runoff from the landfill into storage tanks that will then be routed into the city of Dayton Sewer system that runs along Highway 27.

The next stage to be completed will be the methane burn off system. This project is moving at a good clip. The Tennessee Department of Environmental Conservation is constantly inspecting the new construction.

Chairman Reed reminded County Executive Vincent, along with commissioners, that the tire wash system has been asked for a decade now and hasnt been completed yet.

Chairman Reed then asked for a motion to adjourn but advised before commissioners left that there would be a special called workshop on June 28 at 6 p.m. for the end of the year budget adjustments and then at 6:30 there would be a special called meeting of the County Commission.
Throughout history slavery has existed. Its never been right. In the case of Africans who were captured by other Africans and sold to slave traders, many ending up in the USA . It's hard for me to wrap my head around how this could happen. We are a country founded on religious freedom, yet we could think it was right to own people as slaves?

On Sept. 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued by executive order the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, to become effective Jan. 1, 1863, and he did it while the American Civil War was still going on. It was Proclamation 95 and was supported by the Republicans in Congress and even a few Democrats. President Lincoln was the founder of the Republican Party and is celebrated every year.

Even though all slaves were to become free on Jan. 1, the slaves in Texas were not aware of the Proclamation 95 until Major General Gordon Granger, along with his troop of Calvary, rode into Galveston, Texas on June 19,1865 to free the last of the slaves. Thats just shy of two and one half years after Proclamation 95 went into effect.

It was originally called Jubilee Day. Dr. Opal Lee, an activist and retired teacher, is said to be the originator of the name change to Juneteenth. There is so much bad history that didnt change a lot for African Americans, other than slavery ending.

The first example that is glaring to me is what happened to Bass Reeves, one of the greatest Deputy US Marshals of the Wild West, when he lost his position because African Americans could not hold such an office. He spoke the languages of five civilized tribes = the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Seminole and Creek.

The second example can be seen at the south end of the Walnut Street Bridge, where the monument recognizing the lynching of Ed Johnson on March 19, 1906 stands. Its very difficult to stand at that memorial and read the different plaques and not have tears.

I could go on and on, but my point is this: June 19, 1865 was the official end of slavery in the USA. That is a day that is worth all of us celebrating.

J. Pat Williams

* * *

Wow! J. That's a complete 360 from your usual on such subjects. Or is it a 180? 90? 45? Whatever. Hopefully, it's legit, sincere and there are no angles, subtle dog whistles or barbs involved.

However, there are a number of things in need of correction that keeps floating around on the subject, and not just by you. But others even, who should know better.

1. Yes, originally Africans were transported for slave labors in the Americas. However, within time, very few actually came from Africa. They instead came from breeding plantations in America, that bred their slaves for the sole purpose of selling them to other plantations, brothels, saloons; to work in the fields and factories, often performing the more dangerous and deadly tasks.

2. Yes, Africans did sell fellow Africans into slavery. In Europe, well through the 17th century, English children were basically considered a commodity, to be bartered and sold often to settle debts (there's a story I have personal knowledge of I'll share at the end of this). For Africa it was based on tribal differences of a people from different tribes, clashing and at war with one another. No more than Europe's clashing during WWII, killing fellow Europeans. Example would be the Katyn massacre where thousands of Polish military officers were slaughtered and buried in mass graves. One side blaming the other. The truth only coming out over 80 years later. It's the ultimate tragedy of human nature.

The Emancipation Proclamation didn't free slaves in all states. Only those states that rebelled against the Union. Even so, acts of slavery continued to exist well into the 20th century. At age 11, my father-in-law's parents owned a farm in Arkansas during the early 1900s. He sometimes hopped freight trains running along the rear of the property to travel into nearby small towns and many often traveled in those days. On one of those occasions, he was removed from the train by a local sheriff in one of those towns he was passing through, taken into West Texas and forced to work under slave like conditions. He managed to escape after about two years with the help of a white woman who sometimes visited the plantation, after convincing her he did indeed have a family in Hope, Ar. who owned a farm. He witnessed other young children working on that plantation in West Texas too. Some perhaps orphans? Run-aways?

Two of my great-uncles on my mother's side of the family, not sure if they were the two who served in the military, worked as day laborers. Back in the day that's where men, some women too, stood on the side of the road or in a lot, and someone in need of abled bodies willing to work for a day's pay would come along and offer work. Permanent jobs weren't always easy to come by for many blacks then, as well as poor whites too. Hence, the term day-labor. On one particular occasion an uncle was picked up and taken somewhere down in Florida, where he was forced to work alongside others on some island of some kind surrounded with alligators. The family searched and searched for him, as my great-aunt, his sister, once told the story. He wasn't the type to just walk away and abandon family. He too somehow escaped and made it back to Chattanooga. How he was able to escape, he never told anyone. At the time he was considered "mulatto." A term popular in those days, but later fell out of favor and viewed as derogatory.

Now the story in #2 I promised you. The story of the young English lad, indentured servant and the young female slave. This is not a love story nor a Romeo/Juliet story. It's the story of the tragedy of profound proportions of human nature.

Most people may not be aware, in many ways white indentured servants weren't treated much better than the black slaves. They often shared the same quarters, or lived nearby in separate quarters. You're not likely to find the story in any books to my or anyone's knowledge. Young people then were no different than young people today. When those hormones kick in, they kick-in! The English lad, indentured servant got the master of the plantation most prized female slave he'd been saving for breeding or, perhaps, for himself, knocked up. When the plantation "master" threatened all the other male slaves/indentured servants if no one confessed all would suffer, the young English lad indentured servant stepped forward and admitted to being the guilty party. That young English lad, indentured servant, was hanged as a warning and to send a message to all the other male slaves and indentured servants to not mess with the "master's" female property. Surely, that young lad's genes were passed on down through the generations and family on both sides likely exist today who don't know the tragic of a great-great-great-multiple great-grandpa.

Finally, J. Another unknown is that many wealthy plantation owners rarely or never visited their plantations. Many actually lived noble, upstanding lives with their families in neutral and slave free states, leaving the daily operations up to their overseers. One of the largest plantations in the south, the Butler plantation I believe, the son, one of two, who inherited the plantation from their father only occasionally took trips back to the southern plantation. The other brother took his part of inheritance and gambled it away I believe, according to history. The son who took over the plantation and the family lived in a slave free state. Pennsylvania I believe. Which had become slave free by the 1840s? Although the Pennsylvania Act passed in 1780, it was only meant to gradually free the slaves.

Well, enough of that! Just a little history lesson of the not so glorified kind, most probably would never get to know. As we Boomers get older, and lots of history we learned or have personal knowledge of is disappearing. Allowing someone to come along and rewrite their version of. Such is life and the way of human nature.

I apologize, a little/not a lot, for being so long winded and for any typos or grammatical errors. This is just too much for even me to go back and proofread. Happy Juneteenth!

Brenda Washington

* * *

In response to J. Pat and Brenda's exchange, I believe that it is a perfect example of why race relations are deteriorating after decades of improvement. J. Pat Williams comments fairly regularly about current state of affairs of youth and crime and assorted topics in none of which I have seen any mention of race, but Brenda likes to imply that he is disparaging blacks when I haven't seen it, even despite the individuals involved in a particular incident might be black. Then he tries to promote the celebration of emancipation only to be accused of possibly having an ulterior motive.

I enjoy reading Brenda's posts, she has seen a lot of history and has some interesting points of view to impart to the rest of us. But this is a little much. I believe 99.9 percent of people think slavery was and is a terrible thing. I also believe 99.9 of people alive today in America had no involvement on either side. Let's move on.

Sam Lewallen
The recent convictions of former Republican President Donald J. Trump in New York City and President Democrat Joe Biden's son Hunter in the home state of Delaware have similarities and differences from the Watergate political scandals in the 1970s involving the presidency of Richard M. Nixon.

The Donald faces three more trials in federal courts in Florida and Washington, DC and a state court in Georgia. Hunter Biden has pending a federal income tax evasion case set in California. In Watergate, most of the convicted defendants were from the Republican Party while in 2024, there is a cross section of both political parties duly represented in the criminal and contempt charges that have been completed, ongoing and anticipated for the future.

The most shocking revelation in the Tricky Dick case was when the inside informant was identified as Deep Throat in a seemingly inappropriate choice of identification.

Staunch Democrat defenders claim the sins of the fallen son, Hunter Biden, do not implicate the current sitting (or tripping) father in the White House.

The answer to that issue will be decided in the future following the one sided political wars ongoing in both Houses of Congress and allegedly also implicating United States Supreme Court members for inappropriate judicial misconduct.

The absence of Mrs. Trump from her husband's trial in Manhattan raise questions, but the ex president's attractive public spokesperson (AH) since around 2021 offset her lack of attendance.

The daily presence of Doctor (education degree) Jill on the front row behind her step-son, Hunter Biden, at his supposedly friendly forum of Wilmington, Delaware did not produce the intended result as the home folks on the jury only took four hours to overcome the presumption of innocence and convict the accused.

Local politicos asked a veteran trial lawyer their opinion of the legal work of the lawyers representing the Democrat or Republican actors. In a typical cynical response, he/she stated I could have lost both a lot cheaper, and for less time. The use of the judicial system for political purposes continues.

Jerry Summers
Tennessee is headed to the finals of the College World Series.

It will be a best of three series starting Saturday.

The Vols downed Florida State, 7-2, on Wednesday for their second win over the Seminoles at Omaha.

Zander Sechrist held a strong Florida State offense in check until finally yielding two home runs in the bottom of the seventh. That cut the Vol lead to 6-2, but Blake Burke homered in the top of the ninth to get the run back.

In the first, Tennessee got hits from Christian Moore and Burke before there was an out. Moore came in on a fielder's choice groundout by Billy Amick. Hunter Ensley then knocked in Amick.

Still in the first, Dylan Dreiling came around on a throwing error by pitcher Brennen Oxford.

Burke knocked in Moore in the top of the second, pushing the score to 4-0.

Moore tripled to the right field corner in the bottom of the fourth, plating catcher Cal Stark.

In the seventh, Dreiling singled to right, bringing home Amick.

Kirby Connell and Nate Snead held the Seminoles in check the rest of the way after Sechrist exited.
Cherokee Nation accepting applications for income-based childrens clothing assistance program for Cherokee childing living in the United States through July 16 at 5 p.m.
More than 200 years ago, the Stellers sea cow was driven to extinction by human hands. The marine mammal was a relative of dugongs and manatees, which still swim in warm tropical waters near Florida and other parts of the world.

The Stellers sea cow, on the other hand, once inhabited the frigid waters of the northern Pacific Ocean.

While manatees typically reach about nine feet in length, Stellers sea cows could grow up to 30 feet long, even bigger than the size of many modern whales.

The creatures were first described to Europeans by a naturalist named Georg Wilhelm Steller in 1741. Steller was on the Bering Expedition to explore the North Pacific. When their vessel was shipwrecked in the Commander Islands, the crew encountered the sea cows and started killing them for food.

By 1768, the animals were extinctjust 27 years after they had been formally discovered. The slaughter of Stellers sea cows was spurred by the Europeans desire for fur coats and hats.

Hunters were killing sea otters to keep up with the demands for fur. The sea cows happened to live in the same area as a large population of sea otters, so they became collateral damage. They were frequently dragged up to beaches to be butchered for fresh meat.

Steller noted that the sea cows engaged in social behavior that made them easy targets. When a female was captured, a male would visit the place where her body remained every day, even if she had died.

They also gathered in large groups to graze on kelp in the shallow waters around remote islands. In addition, Steller mentioned that their blubber was thick and delicious, containing subtle flavors of almond.

The speed at which the sea cows were wiped out indicates that there were not very many of them alive at the time. Evidence suggests that the animals may have had a wider habitat range, but as humans began to sail the seas, it shrunk down to the northern Pacific.

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Welcome to the final episode (at least for now) of Promised Land, CTs limited series on the Israel-Hamas war. This episode is a little differentinstead of host Mike Cosper talking to Christians, Muslims, and Jews around the world, hes the one answering questions. Clarissa Moll, producer of CTs The Bulletin, interviews Cosper about his experience of hosting the series.

Cosper shares what drew him to this project, how he sees its value within the rest of CTs reporting, and why he selected his specific interviewees. He and Moll discuss how Christian perspectives on Israel and Palestine have shifted in recent years. They consider the impact of the fog of war on the podcast and address critical feedback of Promised Land, specifically listener responses that say the show has ignored human rights violations committed by Israel and not acknowledged the failures of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Tune in for an episode that dives deep into the nuances of the Israel-Palestine relationship and speaks clearly to ways Christians can pray for their brothers and sisters in the Middle East.

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Promised Land is a limited series exploring the moral, spiritual, and political challenges presented by the Israel-Hamas war. Host Mike Cosper (The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill) takes listeners with him to locations across the US, Israel, and Palestine, bringing you into the homes, lives, and stories of people for whom this conflict is their everyday experience.

Listen to More in This Bonus Series:

Making Sense of the Israel-Hamas War

Antisemitism and the Jewish Identity

Hamas and the Laws of War

Terrorism and the Road to War

Its Complicated

The Zionist Story

Rocks in Hard Places: From the Foundation Stone to Living Stones

Empire of Refugees: Victims, Villains, and Settler Colonialism

Settlers, Sacred Cows, and the Temple

The Bulletin is a production of Christianity Today Executive Produced by Erik Petrik Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Mike Cosper Field Recording by Michael Winters Additional Production by Matt Stevens and Clarissa Moll Music by Dan Phelps Additional Music by David LaChance, Jr. Theme Song On Jordans Stormy Banks performed by Sandra McCracken
While the Texas megachurch said it did not have all the facts about Morriss earlier misconduct, the woman who spoke out said she had informed its leaders years ago.

Gateway Church

Gateway Church founder and senior pastor Robert Morris has resigned, and his Texas megachurch is launching an investigation into allegations of abuse from 35 years ago.

Morrisa former advisor to President Trump and leader of one of the largest nondenominational churches in the countryis leaving after an Oklahoma woman, Cindy Clemishire, shared a story of being molested by the pastor when she was a minor in the 1980s. He has led the congregation since 2000.

In a statement Tuesday announcing Morriss resignation, Gateways board of elders said they were heartbroken and appalled to learn that what they believed was an extramarital relationship was allegedly abuse of a child, The Christian Post reported.

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Regretfully, prior to Friday, June 14, the elders did not have all the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse, they said. The elders prior understanding was that Morriss extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with a young lady and not abuse of a 12-year-old child.

The elders had initially responded on Friday saying Morris had already disclosed what happened and undergone restoration. The pastors earlier statement to The Christian Post referred to the incident as inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady.

In a statement released Tuesday, Clemishire said she had been working for years to have Morris held accountable, including notifying the church of her story in 2005. She said at the time at least one pastor and one elder had been informed that the abuse started when she was 12.

Clemishire said the news of Morriss resignation brought mixed thoughts and feelingsshe believes he should have been terminated.

Though we are called to forgive those who hurt us  we should expect and demand consequences, she wrote.

The church has hired a law firm to conduct a review of Clemishires account from the 1980s. A spokesperson for Haynes & Boone, LLP, confirmed to CT that the firm has been engaged to conduct an independent investigation.

Even though it occurred many years before Gateway was established, as leaders of the church, we regret that we did not have the information that we now have, the elders said. We are heartbroken and appalled by what has come to light over the past few days, and we express our deep sympathy to the victim and her family.

For the sake of the victim, we are thankful this situation has been exposed. We know many have been affected by this, we understand that you are hurting, and we are very sorry. It is our prayer that, in time, healing for all those affected can occur.

Clemishire wrote that she and her attorney, Boz Tchividjian, want to see the scope of the review expanded in case there are more incidents. She told any potential fellow victims that they will not walk this journey alone and she hopes Gateway leadership will take this as an opportunity to find the truth while providing help and restitution.

To the congregation of Gateway Church and the countless who have followed Robert Morris online, my heart is equally broken for you, her statement read. Please remember our faith is in Jesus, not an institution or a man in the pulpit. Keep your faith!

The church did not bring up the allegations during last weekends services, where Morris was not scheduled to preach, and it has not posted about his resignation publicly on its website or on social media.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
Home News 1 in 4 Irish fear losing right to free speech: poll

A new poll shows a growing concern among the Irish populace about the potential erosion of free speech rights, with one in four respondents feeling restricted in their ability to express views in social and professional environments. This sentiment emerges as the Irish parliament debates sweeping new hate speech legislation, which critics fear could severely impact free expression.

According to the survey by the legal advocacy group ADF International, conducted by Whitestone Insight, an overwhelming 90% of participants stated that free speech is very important to them. The timing is crucial as discussions in the Irish Parliament about the proposed legislation coincide with these public concerns.

The survey involved 1,027 adults in the Republic of Ireland from March 15-20, ADF International said in a statement announcing the results.

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Lorcan Price, an Irish barrister and legal counsel for ADF International, criticized the proposed legislation at the Ireland Free Speech Summit in Dublin, describing it as one of the worst examples of censorship in the modern West. Price said the bill lacks a clear definition of hate, potentially allowing the state to arbitrarily censor opposing views.

The proposed Hate Speech Bill includes provisions such as making it an offense to possess materials that could incite hatred, with penalties including up to five years in prison. Further, the bill could compel individuals to surrender passwords for electronic devices during investigations, sparking significant privacy concerns.

Critics from various sectors were vocal at the summit, pointing out the global repercussions of the bill, especially considering Irelands status as a hub for international social media companies. Michael Shellenberger, an author and journalist, noted that the bills vague bans could give authorities extensive control over acceptable viewpoints, potentially impacting global online discussions.

The summit, organized by Free Speech Ireland with support from ADF International, featured a diverse group of speakers including independent Senators Ronan Mullen and Sharon Keogan, Cambridge associate professor James Orr, and others, like feminist campaigner Laoise de Brun and Father Ted screenwriter Graham Linehan. Participants spoke about the importance of maintaining a free and open public discourse, arguing against the bills potential to stifle debate.

Amid the senates discussion of the controversial Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022, supporters argue that updated hate-speech protections are necessary to align with societal and social media evolutions.

In a debate in the Senate last week, Irish Green Party Senator Pauline OReilly sought to justify the proposed law. If a persons views on other peoples identities make their lives unsafe and insecure, and cause them such deep discomfort that they cannot live in peace, our job as legislators is to restrict those freedoms for the common good, The Telegraph quoted her as saying. One cannot do and say whatever one likes in our society.

However, opponents, including figures like Donald Trump Jr. and Elon Musk, have expressed severe reservations, labeling the measures as insane and very concerning.

The legislation seeks to extend hate speech protections to include gender identities, raising concerns among campaigners like Helen Joyce, who fears that the law could criminalize expressions deemed as inciting hatred toward specific groups without a clear definition of the term.

Speaking to The Christian Post earlier, Alliance Defending Freedom CEO Kristen Waggoner said, What were seeing is a global trend toward censorship. She warned that the United States was not immune to authoritarian impulses.

And its not just a disregard for free speech; its an active targeting to silent speech by the government, she added.
Home News Biden is a 'cafeteria Catholic,' Cardinal says in rebuke

A prominent leader in the global Catholic Church has become the latest to call President Joe Biden a cafeteria Catholic as he urges Church leaders in the United States to fully embrace Catholic teaching.

Cardinal Robert Sarah, who formerly served as the Catholic Churchs Prefect for the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, gave a lecture titled The Catholic Churchs Enduring Answer to the Practical Atheism of Our Age at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., last week. During his remarks, Sarah echoed the analysis of Cardinal Wilton Gregory of the Archdiocese of Washington by describing Biden as a self-identified Catholic president who amounts to a cafeteria Catholic.

Sarah, a Guinean prelate who has emerged as one of the more outspoken conservative voices within Catholic Church leadership, suggested that the phenomenon of cafeteria Catholics extends beyond the president and applies to many other Catholic public officials.

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Many of your Catholic hospitals and universities are Catholic in name only, he added.

While Sarah did not elaborate on what he meant by the term cafeteria Catholic, Gregory defined the phrase as applying to anyone who picks and chooses dimensions of the faith to highlight while ignoring or even contradicting other parts. Gregory maintained that cafeteria Catholics often choose that which is attractive, and dismiss that which is challenging.

Gregorys characterization of Biden as a cafeteria Catholic, which he made in an appearance on CBS Face the Nation on Easter Sunday, comes as the president has faced criticism for vocally supporting abortion throughout his career despite its clear contradiction with Catholic teaching.

Although Gregory expressed concern that Biden steps aside some of the hot-button issues, or uses the hot-button issues as a political tool and stated that such actions are not the way, I think, we would want our faith to be used, he did not explicitly mention the presidents position on abortion during his appearance on the program.

Nearly three months after Gregorys use of the term cafeteria Catholic to describe one of his citys most well-known Catholics, Sarahs speech focused on the consequences of the efforts to reconcile Catholic teaching with contemporary culture. His address was sponsored by the Catholic Information Center, a Catholic bookstore in Washington, D.C., that often hosts speakers and events for the local Catholic community, and the Napa Institute that describes its mission as to advance the re-evangelization of the United States.

After lamenting the loss of devout Christian living, our obvious Christian culture and, in the form of public dissent, sometimes even from high-ranking officials or prominent institutions, Sarah called on bishops in the U.S. to raise their voice and become clear [teachers] of the faith, witnessing by both word and holiness of life.

There is too much confusion circling the Church. And it is up to us, bishops, to provide clarity so the lay faithful can themselves be witness to the truth, he asserted. He suggested that bishops have an obligation to be a sign of contradiction to the contemporary world.

Sarah cited the example of bishops in Africa offering a historic witness to the faith in the wake of that misguided document Fiducia Supplicans by pushing back against the declaration as an example of Church leaders successfully fulfilling that obligation.

Published late last year by the Vaticans Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Fiducia Supplicans authorized bishops to allow priests to bless same-sex couples while stressing that one should neither provide for nor promote a ritual for the blessings of couples in an irregular situation.

The Vatican insisted that the document will allow the blessing of couples in irregular situations and same-sex couples without officially validating their status or changing in any way the Churchs perennial teaching on marriage, namely that it is a lifelong union exclusively between one man and one woman. Disapproval of Fiducia Supplicans within the Catholic Church extended beyond African bishops as more than 90 Catholic clergymen, scholars and lay people called on the Vatican to withdraw the declaration.
Home News Jewish actor Paul Rudd of 'Ant-Man,' 'Clueless' says if he could meet anyone, he'd want to meet Jesus

Jewish actor Paul Rudd of "Ant-Man" and "Clueless" fame recently said that if he could meet anyone, he'd want to meet Jesus.

Although the 55-year-old actor is Jewish, he said he doesn't identify as particularly religious.

However, while promoting the film "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire," the actor told IGV Presents that if he could talk with anyone throughout history, he'd want to speak with Jesus, and he wasn't ashamed to say so.

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"Anyone from history, who would we choose? I know my answer," Rudd declared, "Jesus Christ."

His co-stars, Mckenna Grace, 17, and Finn Wolfhard, 21, broke out in laughter.

"By the way, laugh all you want!" Rudd said. "It seems like it would be a wrong thing to say."

Wolfhard then asked, "Was He real?"

"He existed!, Rudd responded. "So wouldnt you want to spend some time with him and go 'Jesus, whats the deal?

"Thats a fantastic answer," Grace replied.

Still waiting for his co-stars' answers to the same question, Rudd fired back, saying, "Come on. I got Jesus. Who do you guys got?"

You say this and people think like, Whoa, whoa, whoa, you cant say that, and Id say, Well, why? said Rudd. Thats who I would choose.

The "Ant-Man" actor has two children with his wife, Julie Yaeger: son Jack, 17, and daughter Darby, 13.

In a previous interview with People magazine, where Rudd spoke more about is family, he said: When I think about myself, I think of myself as a husband and a father, like Im that. I just hang out with my family when Im not working. Thats what I kind of like the most.

Although he doesnt consider himself to be religious or leading his family in that way, Rudd has previously spoken out about his Jewish faith.

My whole family is Jewish; my wife, Julie, is Jewish  there isnt anyone in my family who isnt Jewish, he told Jewish Journal in an interview back in 2012.

I was bar mitzvahed Reform; we were pretty laid back, but its like, oh yeah, I went to synagogue.  We have a lineage that is so many thousands of years old, that you just relate. It is a tribe; its like, Oh, yeah, thats my team, and I feel that for sure.

Rudds father, Michael Rudd, died in 2008. In an interview with People, the actor detailed the ideas of spirituality that his father, a British immigrant and Vietnam veteran, shared with him. During one conversation in particular about religion and spirituality, Rudd said, It was a major moment to have with my dad.

Rudd told People that if he could speak to his father now, he would ask him what the afterlife is like, including whether or not he got to meet all of his dead relatives.

Did you stop at the grandparents or did you have great-great-grandparents that you never knew that were like, Mike, finally. Great to see you. Wait till you see what this whole things about. Get ready for your mind to be blown.'
Home News Louisiana becomes first state to require Ten Commandments display in public school classrooms

Louisiana became the first state to require public school classrooms to display the Ten Commandments through a Republican-backed bill signed by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry on Wednesday.

House Bill 71, sponsored by Republican Rep. Dodie Horton, mandates that each public school classroom display a poster-sized copy of the Ten Commandments by next January. The Ten Commandments, as found in the Old Testament books of Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5, are a set of ethical rules handed down by God to Moses.

"If you want to respect the rule of law you've got to start from the original law given, which was Moses," Landry said during a signing ceremony Wednesday.

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The display must be a poster or framed document that is at least eleven inches by fourteen inches, according to the text of the legislation. The text of the Ten Commandments must be the central focus of the poster or framed documents, which shall be printed in large, easily readable font.

The display must also include a four-paragraph context statement telling readers that The Ten Commandments were a prominent part of American public education for almost three centuries.

Around the year 1688, The New England Primer became the first published American textbook and was the equivalent of a first grade reader. The New England Primer was used in public schools throughout the United States for more than one hundred fifty years to teach Americans to read and contained more than forty questions about the Ten Commandments, the context statement reads.

The Ten Commandments were also included in public school textbooks published by educator William McGuffey, a noted university president and professor. A version of his famous McGuffey Readers was written in the early 1800s and became one of the most popular textbooks in the history of American education, selling more than one hundred million copies. Copies of the McGuffey Readers are still available today.

The new law is likely to face legal challenges. Secular church-state separation groups have already threatened lawsuits, contending that it violates the U.S. Constitutions Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.

The American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Louisiana, Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Freedom from Religion Foundation announced their intention to file a lawsuit.

The groups assert that school displays of the Ten Commandments equate to religious coercion of students, who are legally required to attend school and are thus a captive audience for school-sponsored religious messages.

The organizations believe the law violates U.S. Supreme Court precedent set in the 1980 Stone v. Graham decision. In a 5-4 ruling, the Burger court ruled against a similar law passed in Kentucky requiring classrooms to post copies of the Ten Commandments, finding that it violated the First Amendment.

"The law violates the separation of church and state and is blatantly unconstitutional, the groups wrote in a joint statement. The First Amendment promises that we all get to decide for ourselves what religious beliefs, if any, to hold and practice, without pressure from the government. Politicians have no business imposing their preferred religious doctrine on students and families in public schools.

Supporters of the law maintain that its purpose is to highlight the documents historical significance, as the legislation describes the Ten Commandments as one of the "foundational documents of our state and national government."

The bill also allows schools to display other historical documents, such as the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence and the Northwest Ordinance.

Although this is a religious document, this document is also posted in over one hundred and eighty places, including the Supreme Court of the United States of America. I would say is based on the laws that this country was founded on, Republican state Sen. Adam Bass told KALB last month.

Matt Krause, a lawyer with the religious liberty law firm First Liberty Institue, said the new law recognizes "the history and tradition of the Ten Commandments in the state."

Putting this historic document on schoolhouse walls is a great way to remind students of the foundations of American and Louisiana law," Krause, who testified in support of a similar bill in Ohio, stated. "First Liberty was grateful to play a part in helping this bill reach the Governors desk. We applaud Louisiana for being the first, but by no means the last, state to take this bold step for religious liberty.
Home News 'Growing appetite for more': Megachurch leader opens up about past struggles with porn

Watermark Community Church Pastor Timothy TA Ateek discussed his struggles with pornography and how he found freedom through Christ, telling a young adult gathering porn can prevent Christians from knowing Jesus more intimately.

Ateek, the lead pastor of vision and preaching at the Dallas-based megachurch, gave a sermon last Tuesday at a gathering for the church's young adult ministry, The Porch, which focuses on adults in their 20s and 30s. He was candid about his own multi-year pornography struggles and how they limited his impact as he sought to enter ministry nearly two decades ago.

Ateek told the crowd that some people run to porn to fill a void of love, with many feeling "undesirable" and "unlovable." He suggested porn is an ill-fated attempt to "pacify the pain in our souls that Jesus desperately wants to satisfy."

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"The reality of porn is that it is hard to just be swimming in sin and still be intimate with Jesus at the same time," he said. "If you've convinced yourself that you're close to God when you are very close to porn, you can't be close to both at the same time. It also hinders the impact."

The pastor recalled the time many years ago when he had to come to a reckoning with his own intense struggles with pornography. One of the things that led to a change was when he applied to be a Bible study leader at the church he was attending, and the application asked him if he struggled with porn. He admitted that he did, thinking many other guys struggle with that issue.

"I remember this guy calling me and saying, 'TA, we need to talk about this. It is going to be hard for you to lead a group of guys in studying God's word when you are struggling with this,'" he said. "That was a wakeup call that ... sin impacts your ministry."

Ateek says it's been 19 years since he has struggled with porn. He admitted struggling with porn for over seven years before he could walk in freedom. Even after 19 years, he said he still feels the temptation to look at porn.

"The summer between my eighth grade year and my freshman year in high school, my dad and I, we were flying to Indianapolis to go to the Indy 500 race. And on our way back to Dallas, we were in the Indianapolis Airport. And I stumbled upon an inappropriate magazine, and I don't know what caused me to do it.  I picked up this magazine without my dad knowing, and I hid it in my stuff, and I took it home with me," Ateek said.

"I didn't realize that that one decision was the beginning of what would be a seven-year intense battle with pornography. Pornography became a very, very defining part of my story for the next seven years. And when I think back upon my intense battle with pornography, there were various things that marked that struggle."

Ateek said during those years, he believed many lies that he later realized weren't true.

"The first was that I just believed that everyone struggled with porn, like there was this statistic that people would float around that 98% of guys look at porn, and the other 2% are just lying about it," he said. "That's what all the guys would tell themselves, and so I just viewed myself as a stereotypical college guy because everyone looks at porn," Ateek said.

"Another thing that defined me was just a consistent appetite for more. What I would find is that there were certain images that would lose their effect, and I would just want more. I would want the material to be more explicit or more intense; there was just an insatiable, growing appetite for more," Ateek added.

"On top of that, there was the feeling of being a failure. Because I was a Christian and people knew me as a good Christian guy. And yet, so often throughout the week, I was looking at pornography, and I felt like a hypocrite. And so I would go through this cycle of promising God, I'm done with that. And then, I might have a good few days or a good few weeks, and then eventually, I would just relapse back into pornography."

Ateek said something that marked his struggle with pornography was a desire to be done with it. However, his desire was accompanied by feelings of fears that he would never be done with his struggle.

"I just want you to know there is hope. The reason that I can say that is because the summer before my senior year in college, God intervened in my life in a very clear and miraculous and supernatural way through the power of the Gospel. [God] began to go to work on my heart. It wasn't an overnight thing. But, what He did was He set me on a path towards healing," Ateek said.

"For the last 19 years of my life, the Lord has led me in freedom from pornography. I tell you that to say I stand up here as someone who can say, look, there's hope because I've been in a place where I felt like there was no hope."

There are a few crucial steps that Christians can take in their quest to free themselves from struggles with pornography that Ateek said helped him in his journey.

"There are several things that I want you to know that are going to help provide the remedy for your struggle with porn.  You need to know God's will. And what's great is that Scripture spells it out," he said.

"Listen to what Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 4:3. He says, 'for this is the will of God,'" Ateek added.

"We can be so consumed with God's unrevealed will that we completely ignore His revealed will. So just listen. What God spells out for us for this is the will of God, your sanctification  that you 'abstain from sexual immorality.' That word sexual immorality in the Greek is the word 'porneia,' which is where we got pornography. 'This is the will of God, your sanctification.' What does sanctification mean? It means to be set apart," he added.

The pastor advised Christians struggling with porn to get to know Jesus Christ more every day.

"If you know Jesus Christ, if you've surrendered your life to Jesus Christ, then Christ has made you completely wholly pure in God's eyes, which is amazing that positionally before God, you're not filthy, dirty, packed full of wretched sin. No. In God's eyes, you're actually clean and pure and holy," Ateek said.

"But, when Paul says that 'the will of God is sanctification for your life,' what he's saying is God's will is that we would be practically what we already are positionally. If positionally in God's eyes, we are pure and holy and clean, then God's will is that practically we would begin to live pure and holy and clean lives."

Ateek also warned that "porn strains and even ruins relationships."

"I have seen marriages dissolve because of pornography," he said. "Studies show that porn use can increase sexual debt dissatisfaction.  It cultivates unrealistic expectations. Second, it normalizes perverted desires. Like what it does is it convinces you that perverted desires are actually normal," Ateek continued.

"It increases self-consciousness in women about body image, and it increases the probability of divorce," he added, before referencing a Time Magazine article to state: "Some medical professionals have concluded that some people or some men are experiencing porn-induced erectile dysfunction, which is it's this kind of desensitization of men that they can only reach the point of feeling stimulated when sex is like it is on a movie."
Home News Robert Morris' accuser says Gateway Church knew of his crime, questions planned investigation

Hours after Gateway Church officials in Texas announced the resignation of founder Robert Morris Tuesday and said it did not know all the facts after Cindy Clemishire accused him of sexually abusing her over multiple years in the 1980s beginning when she was 12, the 54-year-old grandmother claims the church is not being truthful and wants Morris' entire time at the megachurch to be scoured for more victims.

"The leadership at Gateway received actual notice of this crime in 2005 when I sent an email directly to Robert Morris' Gateway email address. Former Gateway elder, Tom Lane, received and responded to my email, acknowledging that the sexual abuse began on December 25, 1982, when I was 12 years old," Clemishire said in a statement released Tuesday night by her attorney Boz Tchividjian.

"Again in 2007, my then attorney Gentner Drummond (the current Attorney General of Oklahoma) sent a letter to Robert Morris with the hope that he would help reimburse me for the thousands of dollars I had expended in counseling as a result of this abuse. His attorney acknowledged the dates as well and then attempted to blame me for the abuse," she insisted. "At the very least, both the Gateway pastor and at least one elder had specific notice that I was sexually abused beginning when I was 12 years old. Gateway had the information but intentionally decided to embrace the false narrative Robert Morris wanted to believe."

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After Clemishire publicly alleged last weekend that Morris abused her as a preteen girl, Morris, 62, admitted to The Christian Post in an earlier statement that he had engaged in "inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady" while he was a pastor at another church in his early 20s. But he did not name his accuser or disclose her age at the time the abuse began.

"When I was in my early twenties, I was involved in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in a home where I was staying. It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong. This behavior happened on several occasions over the next few years," Morris said.

"In March of 1987, this situation was brought to light, and it was confessed and repented of. I submitted myself to the Elders of Shady Grove Church and the young lady's father. They asked me to step out of ministry and receive counseling and freedom ministry, which I did. Since that time, I have walked in purity and accountability in this area," Morris added.

In their statement on Tuesday, elders at Gateway Church told CP that they believed Morris was fully transparent about his past and that he had been biblically restored to ministry after allegedly stepping away for a questionable period of two years. He reported in his 2011 book, Dream to Destiny, that he returned to ministry just one month after the "Lord orchestrated the circumstances for me to step out of ministry." At the time, Morris admitted he was struggling with pride.

"Regretfully, prior to Friday, June 14, the elders did not have all the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse. The elders' prior understanding was that Morris's extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with 'a young lady' and not abuse of a 12-year-old child," the elders explained.

"Even though it occurred many years before Gateway was established, as leaders of the church, we regret that we did not have the information that we now have. We are heartbroken and appalled by what has come to light over the past few days, and we express our deep sympathy to the victim and her family," the elders added.

In the announcement of Morris' resignation, Gateway Church elders said they have retained the law firm of Haynes & Boone, LLP, to "conduct an independent, thorough, and professional review of the report of past abuse to ensure we have a complete understanding of the events from 1982-1987."

The firm has expertise in more than 40 major legal practice areas, according to its website, including crisis management.

Clemishire highlighted the firm's expertise in helping their clients with "immediate and long-term strategies necessary to mitigate financial and reputational loss and stabilize in a crisis situation."

"This does not appear to be an independent investigation, and this deeply concerns me," she argued.

She also supported Tchividjian's call for Gateway Church to broaden the scope of the investigation into Morris' time leading the congregation.

"Just days ago the Gateway elders released a statement saying, 'Since the resolution of the 35-year-old matter, there have been no other moral failures.' Now that they have allegedly just learned that he was being untruthful, why limit the investigation to his conduct between 1982 -1987? Why not expand the investigation to his entire tenure at Gateway Church?" Tchividjian asked. "Also, why have they retained a law firm that specializes in 'crisis management?'"

Tchividjian told USA TODAY that he is exploring "all options" legally, but because the statute of limitations in place in the late 1980s for sexual abuse was "fairly short," Morris cannot face criminal or civil charges.

"This just demonstrates the absolute importance of statute of limitations reform, both in criminal and civil cases," Tchvidijian told the publication. "When somebody is traumatized as a child, for many it takes decades to process that trauma to even be ready to speak out or do something about it."

Clemishire said on Tuesday that she is grateful Morris has resigned, but she believes he has more victims.

"This is just the beginning. I wholeheartedly and sadly believe I am not the only victim. I encourage anyone who has been sexually victimized by a leader at Gateway Church to take the bold step forward and say something," she said.

"Now is the time. Please know that you will be supported and will not walk this journey alone. I hope and pray that the leadership at Gateway Church will echo this encouragement knowing that this can be an opportunity to find the truth while providing help and restitution to victims."
Home News Robert Morris nixed from Trumps Evangelical advisory board as Texas pols condemn abuse

Though he previously featured prominently in former President Donald Trumps Evangelical Executive Advisory Board, Gateway Churchs founding pastor, Robert Morris, who recently resigned in the wake of child sex abuse allegations, no longer has a role in it, a spokesperson for Trumps 2024 presidential campaign has said.

While Morris hosted Trump at Gateway Church in June 2020 when Trump referred to him and fellow Pastor Steve Dulin as great people with a great reputation, campaign spokesman Steven Cheung told The New York Times that he was not included this year.

President Trumps broad appeal among faith communities across the country is a testament to his unwavering commitment to upholding faith and the protection of religious liberties, Cheung said.

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Morris exclusion from the former presidents powerful group of Evangelical backers comes as current and former Texas politicians are speaking out after 54-year-old grandmother Cindy Clemishire reported that the megachurch pastor began sexually abusing her on Dec. 25, 1982, when she was just 12 years old, and continued with the abuse for four-and-a-half years after that.

I am deeply troubled by the recent revelations about Pastor Robert Morris of Gateway Church. His confession of criminal activity and moral failure is shocking and unacceptable. My heart goes out to the woman whose life was irrevocably altered by his actions when she was just a child, Texas Republican state Rep. Giovanni Capriglione wrote on X. She deserves justice and support. Pastor Morris must be held accountable for his actions. The pain he has caused cannot be erased, and he should face the consequences of his crimes. I stand with any victims and will continue to fight for their rights and safety.

John Huffman, former mayor of Southlake, where the headquarters of church is located in Texas, said on X that many members of the church community feel quite helpless to put into words our thoughts.

Ive had many conversations, and seen many posts online, with friends and neighbors who are at a loss for words because of the news coming out of Gateway Church. Yet, the scandal caused by the exposure of the sin committed by Pastor Robert Morris demands a response, Huffman said Tuesday, hours before Morris stepped down from the helm of the megachurch.

If theres one thing Ive learned after two decades of executive leadership, its this: leaders should be held to a higher standard. Certain types of leaders, like pastors, should be held to the HIGHEST standard. Elizabeth and I know so many wonderful people connected to Gateway Church. We were blessed to receive support from these folks as Mayor and in our run for Congress. They are our friends and family members in Christ. And that is what compels me to speak out and condemn the past actions of Pastor Morris in the strongest possible terms, he explained before calling for Morris firing while noting that He should have spent time in jail, but he didnt.

Clemishires attorney, Boz Tchividjian, told USA TODAY that he is exploring all legal options to get justice for Clemishire, but because the statute of limitations in place in the late 1980s for sexual abuse was "fairly short," Morris cannot face criminal or civil charges.

"This just demonstrates the absolute importance of statute of limitations reform, both in criminal and civil cases," Tchividjian told the publication. "When somebody is traumatized as a child, for many it takes decades to process that trauma to even be ready to speak out or do something about it."

State Rep. Jeff Leach, R-Plano, told the GazetteXtra that local legislators must improve laws to ensure justice for victims of child sexual abuse.

There must be no safe haven or security for anyone who abuses a child in Texas, Leach said. To that end, the Texas Legislature must continue to improve our laws protecting and ensuring justice for victims of childhood sexual abuse and holding criminals and those who aid them responsible. Texas should be leading in this area, and as the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and a longtime advocate for victims and their families I intend to lock arms with fellow lawmakers to do just that.
Home Opinion My father lived out equality: He adopted 10 of us

I dont look a thing like him, but Im his son. There was never a day in my life where I felt like I didnt belong. With all our skin colors, backgrounds, and differing abilities, we were unquestionably his children  loved equally and loved unconditionally. Its so hard to no longer see his kind face, hear his calming voice, or be loved and prayed for. My Dad tragically passed away at the height of COVID in 2021 on the anniversary of Roe. His life, though, beautifully redeems that horrible day for me. He chose me. He chose nine more of my twelve siblings to cherish us, care for us, and called us his own through adoption.

His name was Henry Bomberger

He was raised in a Mennonite home in Lancaster County, PA, otherwise known as Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Little did he know that he would, one day, meet an amazing girl named Andrea, and they would become world-changers by simply loving God and loving people. Their stories were considerably different. He grew up in an intact home with married parents whose ownership of a small retail store brought the family economic stability. She grew up in a broken home with an alcoholic father and was placed in a childrens orphanage for a year while her parents separated. He grew up in a red brick, three-story house. She grew up in a double-wide trailer. Yet, they were meant to be.

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My moms experience in the childrens home instilled in her sweet little five-year-old heart the passion to be a mommy to those who dont have one. The trajectory of her life, according to the experts, should not have been what it became. But God.

My parents met as teens at a Youth For Christ event at the beach. They fell in love. Mom always wanted to have a large family since she was a child. In a video capturing their story, she remembered with laughter: When I dated, I would tell the guys that I wanted ten children. And this is the only one who stuck around! My Dads response: I thought she was probably crazy. Probably dreaming a little bit. Well, I fell in love with her, and the children came afterwards, and I fell in love with each one of them when they came into our family.

Some of the best things in life are unplanned

I wasnt exactly planned. I was conceived in rape but adopted in love. My Dad didnt see me as lesser than because of the crimes of my biological father. (Im forever grateful to a courageous birthmother who, although she was a victim of the violence of rape, never made me a victim of the violence of abortion.) My father saw me just as worthy to love as his first three biological children. Thats what adoption does. Its an equalizer. In the beginning of their adoption journey, my parents had to deal with heartbreaking misperceptions and racism from some in the community and even a few family members. How could there be so much resistance to loving and caring for a child in need of a family?

James 1:27 says: Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. My skin is brown. I have siblings of varying hues. One sister is Vietnamese. One brother is part Native American. Many of us are mixed. My parents are White. Who says you have to be the same color in order to love a child? That dehumanizing lie is the pollution that was, and sadly still is, a battlefront in adoption.

Henry the racial revolutionary

I remember my mom talking about how she and Dad just thought the world would be so radically different because of the Civil Rights Era. They never, for a second, dismissed the idea of adopting children of a different color. They had hoped that the work of Martin Luther King Jr. and many others would continue to transform hearts and minds. But they were rebels, in a way, to a culture that was tragically fixed on the color of our skin and not the Creator of our content within.

Dad wasnt a political activist. He was a quiet warrior who lived out his convictions in plain sight. He had no tolerance for the racism that tries to diminish the truth that were all fearfully and wonderfully made.

Its hard to believe, that in 2024, people are still so painfully fixated with the hues of our skin. Theres an entire industry devoted to it. Its called anti-racism. And it has spread like a cancer into nearly every facet of American life. Its led some leading adoption agencies and adoption advocates to discourage transracial adoption. (I put transracial in quotes because, yes  trigger warning  were all just one human race.) Poisoned by the rhetoric of Critical Race Theory, they take this bizarre position that many (white) adoptive parents suffer from thinking that children need to be rescued.

Newsflash! Each year, over a million children of every complexion do, whether from the violence of abortion or from neglect and abuse in their biological homes. Adoption is both a natural and a supernatural process that brings wholeness and healing to what was broken. Im forever grateful that I was rescued from what might have been. Im so glad some of my siblings were rescued from what was unjustly happening to them.

Remember when (childless) Ibram X. Kendi, anti-racism evangelist and author, compared Justice Amy Coney Barrett and her husband to white colonizers and dismissed white adoptive parents as White Saviors? I do. His words were poison. Neither the Barretts nor my parents had a savior complex; they had a love reflex. Clearly, the overhyped preacher of the anti-racist gospel doesnt seem to understand this.

It's something my dad lived out, every day, proving to the world that color isnt what binds us  love is.
Home Opinion The rise of social conservatives complicates push to dilute GOP platform

While the media fans the flames of a full-blown attack on the Republican Party Platform, some new polling should give those moderates pause. In the eight years since the GOP drew up its last document (COVID derailed any 2020 revisions), conservatives havent abandoned their social values. If anything, theyve become more adamant about protecting them.

The numbers might surprise Republicans, but in the last 20 years  as Democrats declared war on gender, girls sports, parental rights, marriage, and life  the percentage of GOPers who consider themselves conservative or very conservative on social issues jumped from 64% to 74%. Thats bad news for the partys rebel flank, who hope to rip out key planks of the platform on abortion, marriage, and sexuality in July. As internal forces prep a siege on longtime principles, Gallups findings ought to stiffen the spines of any delegates tempted to water down what Republicans stand for.

FRC Action Director Matt Carpenter sees the increase in social conservatives in the GOP as significant. Its a rejection of the progressive ideology that has infected every institution in America, he told The Washington Stand. It tells me that there is a ceiling on just how far the Left can advance their cause among the American people. I think further evidence of this is the fact that Pride Month has been relatively muted this year compared to previous years. The novelty of much of the Lefts cultural agenda is wearing off and the pendulum is beginning to swing back.

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This idea that Republicans need to become more like Democrats to get elected is  and has always been  a ridiculous notion. Conservatives should be doing everything in their power to highlight the sharp contrasts between the GOP and the radical party of child mutilation, same-sex marriage, unborn baby dismemberment, and infanticide. As Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) warned when his colleagues sided with the presidents social extremism on a few occasions, Republicans in office dont help Republican candidates win elections by acting like Democrats. In fact, the opposite is true. Democrats make much better Democrats than weak-kneed Republicans. We will never beat them at their own game. Ever. Nor should we try.

While Republicans harden their positions on social issues, so have Democrats. Since 2004, the presidents party has become just as polarized in these culture wars  almost doubling the population of social liberals from 39% to 69% in the last two decades. The Left, on the other hand, doesnt shy away from spelling out its positions in the party platform, even the overwhelmingly unpopular ones, like taxpayer-funded abortions and gender transitions, transgender access to restrooms, locker rooms, and showers, bans on sexual orientation change efforts, the end of conscience rights, biological boys in girls sports, sexual indoctrination in the classroom (without parental notification), and on and on.

To anyone who says these documents dont matter, Ed Martin would say: youre dead wrong. The president of Phyllis Schlafly Eagles joined Family Research Council President Tony Perkins on Washington Watch Tuesday to call for prayer for what he considers the most important work of convention week.

Words are very important, he insisted. And when you write it down in the platform, [for] the Republican Party, [these are] our principles. This is hopefully what we govern with  but its [also] who we stand for. Martin, who was just appointed by the Republican National Committee as a deputy director of the Platform Committee, says its more important than ever for social conservatives and Christians to stand up and be counted.

He pointed to the mission creep in Ireland, where there are about 10 political parties. One by one, they systematically took the definition of marriage from their beliefs. Then they had a vote, Martin explained, and the people of Ireland  like 85% voted for marriage between whoever you want it to be. [The platforms principles] are like an exoskeletal system around our leaders, but theyre also a defining sense of who we are  [So] were never going to yield on life. Were never going to yield on family.



In fact, he believes this is such a significant moment for Republicans that hes calling for 40 days of prayer in preparation for the 2024 platform debate in Wisconsin. The late conservative hero Phyllis Schlafly called the 2016 document the greatest platform of her life. And it was extraordinary, Martin agreed. But weve got a lot of work to do on the platform  [and] we better get on our knees and pray.

He said this isnt about having a special call or a special gathering  its simply about intentionally going to God in prayer for our country and the direction of both parties. Were nondenominational in the sense we pray for Democrats, too, even though I dont have much hope in them. But we need to pray for all of our leaders of both parties. And as you point out, what is at stake is not small potatoes. The Republican Party platform has protected life. Its protected the family. Its protected a vision of a strong nation that is good for its neighbors by its strength. And all [of] that is up for grabs in a culture that in many ways is collapsing. So were going to start with prayer.

Martin lamented the moderate Republicans whove dismissed the significance of the platform in the past  like former House Speaker John Boehner and presidential candidate Bob Dole. The latter even told his people, Dont worry about that. But, Martin insisted, think about the progression of the culture right now. We didnt have [the explosion of] transgender[ism] eight years ago [to deal with in] the last platform. We didnt have the insanity of what theyre doing in law.

In other words, the time to plant a flag is now. And there [are] some Republicans that need to buck up and understand were not letting this happen to our girls and our families, and were going to explain that. So for those people that say words dont matter and the platform doesnt matter, I would [profoundly disagree].

Schlafly, he pointed out, did a lot of incredibly courageous things in her lifetime. But the platform [is] what she fought for for decades, Martin wanted people to know. But she said, That may be the most important thing I did that I was involved in. And thats what Phyllis thought.

Now, the legacy of Schlafly and so many who came before her hinge on a monumental battle this July. That work is far from done, Perkins insisted. But if theres one thing he wants Republicans to know, its this: Were not going to surrender any ground that has been gained.

Originally published at The Washington Stand.
Home Opinion Why did Sarah Young in 'Jesus Calling' put words in Jesus' mouth?

The Christian Post reported last week that "the Presbyterian Church in America has approved a resolution to investigate the influence of Sarah Young's book Jesus Calling on the denomination and might decide to ban it." This hugely popular devotional book was first published in 2004 and has sold over 40 million copies.

When Sarah Young passed away last year at the age of 77, The New York Times reported that her devotional book was "written in the voice of Jesus Christ." But how can you speak in the voice of Jesus Christ unless He is giving you the exact words to say? And would the Lord really add another book today to the divinely inspired words that make up the 27 books of the New Testament?

Sarah Young acknowledged in the introduction to her book that she "knew that these writings were not inspired as Scripture is" and that "the Bible is, of course, the only inerrant Word of God." Why then would she claim to be delivering Jesus' precise words in the first person? What motivated Sarah Young to put words in Jesus' mouth?

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In the introduction she writes, "I knew that God communicated with me through the Bible, but I yearned for more. I wanted to hear what God had to say to me personally on a given day." This curious yearning for more than Scripture is what ultimately led Sarah Young to make the misguided decision to put words in Jesus' mouth.

Pastor Tim Keller's wife, Kathy, wrote a review for Jesus Calling back in 2012, in which she stated, "I am guessing that many of the people who love Jesus Calling have found that just reading the Bible was insufficient for their spiritual needs. But if it takes hard work to get the sweetness out of the book God provided, then so be it. The only place you can be SURE you are hearing God's words is in God's Word."

Pastor Tim Challies penned, "10 Serious Problems with Jesus Calling." He wrote, "Jesus Calling makes the boldest, gutsiest, and, to my mind, most arrogant claim of any book ever to be considered Christian ... Jesus Calling only exists because Sarah Young had a deep desire to hear from God outside of the Bible." "Young's emphasis in Jesus Calling is markedly different from the emphases of the Bible. For example, she speaks seldom of sin and repentance and even less of Christ's work on the cross."

Challies added, "The Jesus of Sarah Young sounds suspiciously like a 21st century, Western, middle-aged woman. If this is, indeed, Jesus speaking, we need to explain why he sounds so markedly different from the Jesus of the Gospels or the Jesus of the Book of Revelation. Nowhere in Scripture do we find Jesus (or His Father) speaking like this: 'When your Joy in Me meets My Joy in you, there are fireworks of heavenly ecstasy.' Or again, 'Wear my Love like a cloak of Light, covering you from head to toe'... Why does Jesus suddenly speak in such a different language?"

The feel good emphasis in Jesus Calling lacks the kind of corrective instructions Jesus spoke to seven churches in the book of Revelation after His resurrection from the dead. I explored the seven letters to seven churches in my 2014 CP op-ed, "What Would Jesus Say to Churches Today?" For example, Jesus told the church in Laodicea, "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent" (Revelation 3:19). You see, the real Jesus shares more than just comforting affirmations when addressing His followers.

Many of the positive declarations Sarah Young attributes to Jesus appear rather innocuous. But what makes her book so problematic is that she essentially claims to be channeling Jesus, who supposedly gave her specific words to write down which were then sold to 40 million people. When Young presented these words in the first person as coming directly from Jesus, she inadvertently placed her book on par with Scripture.

By the way, if the number of copies sold or distributed determined the spiritual success of a book, the Book of Mormon would be considered one of the most successful books of all time with 200 million printed copies. That is, if sales or numbers were more important than whether or not a book's message is of divine origin.

It is highly troubling that "in early versions of Jesus Calling, Young tells of her discovery of the book God Calling and the way she modeled her practice of listening on it. She describes it as a devotional book written by two anonymous 'listeners.' These women practiced waiting quietly in God's Presence, pencils and paper in hand, recording the messages they received from Him." Sarah Young said, "This little paperback became a treasure to me."

In The Encyclopedia of New Age Beliefs, "John Weldon and John Ankerberg provide ample evidence as to why God Calling is a channeled New Age book." Here are a couple statements supposedly made by Jesus in God Calling: "I need you more than you need me" (p. 60). "I await the commands of my children" (p. 63). Now does that sound like the real Jesus to you?

The direct words from Jesus that the Father wanted us to have were given by the Holy Spirit to the authors of the New Testament. "All Scripture is God-breathed" (2 Timothy 3:16). The human invention of Jesus Calling, on the other hand, does not contain direct messages from Jesus, in spite of the divine affirmations it purports to present. The Lord did not suddenly decide 20 years ago to add Jesus Calling to the canon of Scripture.

Whenever we prayerfully read and study the Bible, we are trusting God to speak to us through His inspired and inerrant Word. Jesus told His disciples that the Holy Spirit "will guide you into all truth" (John 16:13). So, how often do you study and meditate upon Scripture as you seek to hear, understand and apply the spiritual insights God wants to communicate to you?
Did Jesus say 'love is love?'

Over the past decade or so, marriage and sexual identity definitions have been under attack in our world. And as we rub shoulders with people we know and love, who are in the process of redefining their sexuality or marriage or maybe even gender, we must each try to find a way to navigate these re-definements.

About fifteen years ago the Christian community started saying this phrase, "God is love," but now it is, "Love is love. When you hear the phrase, "Love is love?" what do you hear? Well, here is what it means to most in our day: "Love is love" is a phrase meaning that the love expressed by an individual or couple is valid regardless of the sexual orientation or gender identity of their lover or partner.

While I was in Europe not too long ago, I went to the University of Oxford and toured the historically famous Randolph Hotel. Inside this beautiful hotel was a sign on the welcome desk that said, "We welcome all sexual orientations." No qualification, no exception, no explanation. Love is love.

See, in the church, when this movement began, Christians at least were saying things like, "God is love."

The subtle movement from "God is love" to "Love is love" is not an accident; it is a progression that always occurs when a deception or a lie is at the base of the intent. The Devil has used "God is love" to take a lot of Christians down the path of trying to be "loving" to people in their lives who, simply speaking, are redefining love.

Now, we drop "God" and just add "love" as the supreme rule of this rule. But love comes from God. 1 John 5:7-8 says:

"Whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. So, love is an expression or action defined by God, alone."

God owns the exclusive rights to love. So, anyone who says, "Love is love," must go back and say, "Does God Almighty define this as love?"

1 John 5:9-10 says:

"In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins."

This tells us that love is an expression or action supremely seen through Jesus. If I want to know what love is, look at Jesus' life and his sacrifice for me. The Savior shows us what love is; sex doesn't.

That's because when people say, "Love is love," what they are actually saying is, "Sex is sex," which the Bible doesn't agree with either. That is why the Bible defines acceptable and unacceptable sexual actions and orientations. The point is this: you won't find love primarily through sex; you will only find sex. And if that sex is unacceptable to God, you will find destruction. That is what the Bible teaches in Romans 1 and 1 Corinthians 6.

1 John 5:11 says: "Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."

This means love is an expression or an action motivated by God's example through Jesus.

I learn how to love you by learning how God loves me. My effectiveness of loving you is dependent upon my effectiveness to understand and apply how God loves me. If I don't think God loves me, then that is going to impact how I treat you.

John concludes his thoughts on love by saying in 1 John 5:12: "No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us, and his love is perfected in us."

This means love is perfected by God living in us and then through us.

So then, love is Jesus living in us and through us. Paul gives us a list of actions and expressions that help us to identify when it is Christ who is living love through us. He says in 1 Corinthians 13:

" Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth."

Here is a list of what love is when Jesus is living through us:

Patient Kind Does not envy or boast Not arrogant Not rude Not insistent upon its own way Not irritable. Not resentful. Does not rejoice in wrongdoing Rejoices with the truth.

That's the top ten of what love is when Jesus lives through you to love others.

What words or phrases are missing in that 1 Corinthians list?

Sex is love. Acceptance is love. Live your love. Live your truth in love. Be happy for them and what makes them happy. Choose your orientation. All orientations are welcome and accepted. Don't let someone else define love for you. Love is love. Do what makes you feel good.

Our world has twisted love. Love is the most sacred gift God gives us and Christ modelled it for us. Love without selflessness and sacrifice is not love. We learn to love by learning how Christ loves us and loves others through us. Can I encourage you today to rethink your view and understanding of love and go back to the creator, designer, definer, motivator, and example of love? His name is Jesus.
The voting conundrum for socially conservative Christians like me

I am sure I am not the only socially conservative Christian with a voting headache ahead of the General Election on July 4.

I would prefer to vote Reform. But to play my small part in trying to prevent a neo-Marxist elective dictatorship emerging in the UK I think I am going to have to vote Conservative in the North Lancashire constituency of Morecambe and Lunesdale where I live.

Writing about my dilemma in The Conservative Woman last week, I sympathise with Don Benson's comment in the thread: "In the present case, supporting the morally bankrupt Conservatives after the utterly shocking way they've behaved (and clearly would continue to behave) should not be crossing sound minds as either an intelligent or worthy option."

The problem I face here is that this is not a typical 'Red Wall' constituency in the North of England won from Labour in the Boris Johnson 'Get Brexit Done' victory of 2019.

Its Conservative MP (now parliamentary candidate) David Morris first won the seat from Labour in 2010 and held onto it in 2015, 2017 and 2019. He is an experienced, well-liked constituency MP and therefore I believe he is best placed to keep Labour out. He is defending a majority from 2019 of 6,354.

I do not think Reform should be fielding a candidate here. But for every seat where Reform agreed not to run against the Conservatives, Nigel Farage's party should have been offered a clear run in a winnable seat for its candidate.

I asked Morris whether he would support former Home Secretary Suella Braverman as Conservative leader after the possible meltdown of the party's MPs to around 100 after July 4.

I have still not had a reply to my question. But if cabinet minister Grant Shapps is allowed to say, as he did in his June 12 interview with Times Radio, that the Conservatives are unlikely to win the election, why shouldn't a Conservative candidate speak his or her mind on who would make the best leader of the opposition in the elective dictatorship that a Labour victory is poised to usher in?

Miriam Cates, the Conservative candidate for the South Yorkshire seat of Penistone and Stocksbridge, argued on June 13 in The Telegraph that Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is more "dangerous" than Tony Blair was when he led New Labour to its landslide victory in 1997.

Cates, a committed evangelical Christian who won her seat for the Conservatives from Labour in 2019, wrote: "From 1997, Tony Blair and his allies remade the British state in their own image. Power and agency were taken from Parliament and the people and handed over to courts, arms-length bodies, technocrats and civil servants.

"These acts of constitutional vandalism changed Britain profoundly and have made it markedly more difficult for today's politicians to resolve some of our country's most pressing challenges."

She admitted that "it's true that the Conservative Party has had 14 years to repeal Blairite legislation". But she claimed "fair-minded voters will acknowledge that such reforms would not have been politically possible in coalition (with the Liberal Democrats from 2010 to 2015), nor practically achievable alongside Brexit, nor a priority during the pandemic.

She continued, "However, the great irony is that because the Conservatives have been unable to roll back New Labour reforms, Starmer may now get the chance to pick up where Blair left off. The Labour Party has already indicated that it would introduce a new Race Equality Act, beef up the Office for Budget Responsibility and make it easier to change gender.

"A Labour 'supermajority' could vandalise our constitution so irreversibly that no centre-right government could turn back the clock."

My main concern is the effect that a neo-Marxist Labour government would have on the freedom of orthodox Christians to proclaim and practise their counter-cultural beliefs. Since the Conservative-led government introduced same-sex marriage in 2013, incidents of orthodox Christian street preachers being arrested for criticising homosexual practice have increased. This site among others has extensively covered the brutal arrest of Pastor John Sherwood by the Metropolitan Police in Uxbridge in 2021 and his subsequent acquittal in 2022.

Christians who have expressed their beliefs on marriage and sexual morality in the workplace or on social media have also been losing their jobs under the Conservatives and, assisted often by the Christian legal Centre, have been taking their employers to tribunals.

Bad though it has been in the past decade, I believe this trend will get worse under Labour for the reasons Cates has given in her political analysis.

The traditional Christian gospel is the only hope of eternal salvation for the people of this country but it looks as if they are going to give Labour an overwhelming mandate to make its proclamation much harder in the coming years, hence my voting headache.

Julian Mann is a former Church of England vicar, now an evangelical journalist based in Lancashire.
Its a huge step for us, says de Freitas. We leave complex license infrastructure and service levels up to SAPs one-stop-shop in the cloud. It gives us a better opportunity to benefit from its news and latest releases in security, functionality and technical stability.

Strategic AI

Finding the right applications of AI is also high on the agenda. Applied AI is one of our strategic technology priorities, Stranne says. The focus is on three areas, the first of which is about how AI can be used in various tools such as those SKF can get via SAPs Rise but also via, for example, Microsoft. Right now were testing M365 Copilot to a limited extent and gathering user input to understand where the value for the company lies, she adds. At the same time, it also means that our employees gain an understanding of what AI can contribute to the tasks they perform every day.

The second area is SKF to develop its own AI models within its core business. For example, over the last couple of years, the company has been working with condition monitoring, or checking the condition of their machines during operation to see when its time to maintain them, and make sure the right parts are in place. And in order for employees to test new models, SKF has set up separate environments, so-called sandbox environments, together with its cloud providers, where its possible to experiment in a safe way. Theres also a community where interested employees can discuss and exchange experiences, or maybe test similar areas of use together.
Aboneaza-te la rubricile dorite si primeste zilnic notificari pe email cu link-uri la articolele care au fost adaugate in ultimele 24 de ore. Notificarile vor fi expediate la adresa indicata mai jos. Daca doresti sa schimbi adresa - o poti modifica editand informatia de profil aici.
By Chalabala, Adobe

Two people have been arrested and charged as part of an investigation into a suspected break-in at Gateshead FACT cancer charity.

Northumbria Police stated that a significant amount of damage was caused to the premises in the incident while a sum of money was also stolen from a cash register.

At around 9pm on 13 June, police received a report of two men trying to gain entry to a premises on Springwell Road in Wrekenton.

Officers responded and arrested two men, aged 30 and 34, after one was found hiding in a wall cavity, while the other was located on the roof of the property.

The BBC reports that founder Joanne Smith said this has resulted in the charity having to suspend operations for the first time in its history.

We've never had to stop delivering services in 16 years, Smith said.

Even in the pandemic we managed to keep going.

Smith said she felt numb and empty and it was heart-breaking having to turn people away from the charity.

What really hurt us was the damage to the items that directly support our service users, like wigs, prostheses and information leaflets, she added.

The latest data filed with the Charity Commission shows the charity had an income of 341,620 for the year ending 30 June 2023.

Two men charged with burglary

Following police investigations, the two men were charged with burglary.

The 30-year-old man appeared before South Tyneside Magistrates Court on Friday 14 June. Following the hearing, he was released on conditional bail.

The 34-year-old man is due to appear before magistrates next month.

Detective constable Craig Austin, of Northumbria polices serious organised and acquisitive crime team, said: Following the report we received on Thursday evening, our officers immediately attended the scene.

Wed like to thank those in the local area for their quick-thinking in contacting police so that we could respond.

Id also like to praise the officers for their prompt response, which led to us making arrests at the scene.

I hope this sends out a strong message that we, as a Force, do not tolerate this type of behaviour and I would ask that anyone who sees anything suspicious continues to report this to police.

Civil Society had contacted the charity for comment.

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In 2017, Wendi C. Thomasa longtime reporter in Memphislaunched MLK50: Justice Through Journalism, a nonprofit news outlet, to investigate issues of economic inequality that she saw being overlooked in the city. The site was named for the fiftieth anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s assassination in the city, which was coming up in 2018. Initially, it was only supposed to be a yearlong project. With very little funding and a few credit cards, Thomas decided to give it a try. I dont advise this to anybody, she says now.

Seven years on, her bet has paid off. MLK50 continues to cover Memphis, now with a team of full-time reporters and editors. It has produced stories that have improved the lives of residents, such as an investigation into the citys largest hospital chain, which sued its employees for unpaid medical debts even as it neglected to pay them a living wage; after MLK50s stories were published, the hospital changed its policies and eliminated millions of dollars of debt. The site has also covered the state of housing in Memphis and a health crisis stemming from the widespread presence of lead paint and pipes in homes throughout the city.

Last week, MLK50 was honored at the Mirror Awards, a set of prizes awarded by Syracuse Universitys Newhouse School of Public Communications to recognize excellence in media reporting; MLK50 received the Lorraine Branham IDEA Award, a special prize given to newsrooms that invest in diversity. Memphis is a majority-Black city and home to numerous immigrant communities, a reality that MLK50 has striven to reflect in its staff and reporting. The award comes as Thomas embarks on a new chapter; after seven years as the newsrooms director, she is stepping back from that role to return to reporting full-time.

Ahead of the Mirror Awards, I spoke with Thomas about MLK50s evolution, its multipronged approach to covering Memphis, using the Juneteenth holiday to find out how people get their news, and getting back to reporting. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

MLK50 was honored at the Mirror Awards this year. How does it feel?

It was a complete surprise to be notified that were getting an award. [Were] very honored, especially because its named for an illustrious Black woman journalist and the first Black woman dean at the Newhouse School. To be considered to be in that tradition is a great honor. I think the other thing that makes this award stand out is that were being recognized for our commitment to diversity. When I dreamed of what MLK50 could be, it was led by people of color, which makes sense, because Memphis is majority people of color. Having this commitment to make sure your staff looks like the community youre serving, its something that weve done for the last seven years.

When you started MLK50, it was only supposed to be a yearlong project. How did it evolve into a lasting operation?

In the beginning, I did want it to be a long-term thing, but honestly I was giving myself out. I didnt know if wed be able to make this work and calling it a one-year project was like, Okay, youre giving yourself a trial period, and if, at the end of the year, its completely blown up in your face, then you have an off-ramp. We did not have beats, because we didnt have any full-time reporters. We had a lot of great freelancers and a lot of incredibly talented journalists, one of whom came out of retirement to help; that was our first managing editor, who was just incredible.

A good part of the evolution is having the right people to work with at the right time. The other piece of the evolution is funding. We were finally able to raise some money. When we startedI dont advise this to anybodywed only raised three thousand dollars, so it was kind of putting it together piece by piece. Then we got our first grant from the Surdna Foundation [a charity that provides funding for initiatives focused on social justice]. [One] of the many things Ive learned about philanthropy over the last seven years [is that] money follows money. Once one foundation gives you a grant, its a signal to others: Oh, okay, let me take another look at them.

MLK50 staff at Juneteenth festivals, Memphis, June 15, 2024. Photo by Noah Stewart for MLK50.

As a younger newsroom, what has been your experience of reporting on Memphis through MLK50? What have been some of the challenges?

Before I started MLK50, I was the metro columnist for the daily paper here for eleven years. I think that has made finding sources easier in some ways. But when youre talking about this investigative work weve done around debt collection at Methodist Hospital or worker safety at FedEx, I think one of the challengesone that I gladly acceptis earning the trust of the people who youre asking to share the most intimate details of their finances and their lives with the world. We have a tip sheet weve developed thats called, like, Before you talk to a journalist read this. Its a way to intentionally address that inherent power imbalance between reporter and sourcenot for a spokesperson for a company or the government, but for regular folks who were working at FedEx when they saw a coworker get killed, or Black women workers that Im meeting at the courthouse, who are completely discombobulated because theyve been sued by this hospital.

I think the other challenge is that local government hasnt always been cooperativewhether its the city of Memphis under the previous mayoral administration, the police department, the district attorney[they] are not forthcoming with documents, theyre unresponsive to public records requests. I have a lawsuit against the [city] of Memphis because they would not add me to their media advisory list. I dont know if thats unique necessarily to Memphis, but it makes it hard to do your job.

What has the response from your readers and sources been like?

People often thank us for explaining something that theyve wondered about but didnt have the resources to actually verify. Im also thinking about some of the guides we produced around how to give yourself some time on an eviction. It was born directly out of our reporters going to General Sessions Court and watching people get evicted and having no idea how the process works. We went to different agencies around town that do legal aid on evictions and asked, like, Do you have a resource that we can share? And there werent any, so we created one. Our reporter Jacob [Steimer] said that it was really cool to hand it out to folks who were entering the courtroomto watch them read it and then hear them use that language with the judge to request a continuance.

How does MLK50 reach people?

We dont wait for people to come to our website. When we were writing about the district attorney race, we went down to criminal courts and talked to people with cases down there about what they knew about the race, what they knew about what kind of power the district attorney has over peoples lives. Our housing reporter, who did a big investigative series on lead poisoning and children, went out with a young, Black, community-led environmental justice group to pass out one-pagers we did about how to protect your kids from lead poisoning.

Were going to have tables at upcoming Juneteenth festivalspretty much all the staff is working at some point during these festivalsand one of the questions that we want to ask is: How do people get their news? Anecdotally, its social media; like, Im not necessarily tuning in to the local NBC affiliates five oclock news. Most of our traffic that comes in through social media comes from Facebook. So we focus a good deal there. And then were also really intentional about publishing partners. So Tennessee Lookoutanother nonprofit newsroom, which is based primarily in Nashvillewell swap stories.

We had a beautiful piece that was written about Tyre Nichols, who was the young unarmed Black man who was beaten to death by Memphis police in 2023, on the anniversary of his death. It got picked up by the Oxford American [a nonprofit publication that covers the American South]; its also being turned into an audio story that will be on one of the local radio stations. Those are just some of the ways that were trying to get where people are.

Finally, youll soon be stepping down from your role as director and returning to reporting. Can you talk about this change?

The irony was never lost on me that I started this to do the kind of reporting that I wanted to do, and then was able to do very, very little reporting. I tried to do both and just about worked myself into a grave; I took a step back from most of the journalism to help run the organization, and as weve grown weve gotten more resources, but still not enough for me to go back and commit to reporting. Over the last three years, I might have written a few stories that are meaningful to me. I just feel like I have a lot more stories; I have a lot more to contribute, and actually, I think that my biggest value to Memphis is being a deeply sourced longtime resident who gets giddy in the morning about opportunities to dismantle the status quo. Thats what gets me up in the morning, not reviewing another grant.

Feven Merid is CJRs staff writer and Senior Delacorte Fellow.
Californias largest business and labor groups agreed to change a landmark law that has helped workers sue companies such as Walmart Inc., Uber Technologies Inc. and Google for workplace violations.

The deal caps years of efforts by the states employers to rein in the Private Attorneys General Act, which they blame for mounting lawsuits that according to one study have cost businesses $10 billion during the past decade. Advocates say the law, known as PAGA, is a model of worker protection that has given employees a measure of recourse against powerful companies.

The agreement calls for limiting penalties owed by employers that act swiftly to fix alleged violations and giving businesses more avenues to avoid PAGA lawsuits in the first place by correcting labor code violations. At the same time, employers acting maliciously, fraudulently or oppressively would face higher penalties, according to a statement Tuesday from Governor Gavin Newsoms office.

Related: California Governor Wants to Curb a Labor Law That Cost Businesses $10B

The PAGA deal preserves the laws key provisions, which establish a unique right in California for workers to sue their bosses in the name of the state over alleged workplace violations.

We came to the table and hammered out a deal that works for both businesses and workers, and it will bring needed improvements to this system, Newsom said in the statement.

Newsom convened weeks of negotiations between the California Chamber of Commerce and the California Labor Federation to hash out the pact. Looming over the talks was a November ballot measure, backed by a coalition of business groups, that would have given voters the opportunity to repeal the PAGA law altogether.

The measure will now be removed from the ballot, and the deal is expected to be approved by state lawmakers, according to statements released by the governor and Democratic leaders in both houses of the legislature.

PAGA, which passed in 2003, has grown into a major thorn in the side of businesses by helping employees file lawsuits on behalf of their colleagues and duck forced arbitration clauses. With such clauses becoming increasingly common, PAGA cases have spiked. In 2022, the number of settlements topped 3,165, compared with only about 1,000 in 2017, according to a report commissioned by the chamber of commerce.

Opponents of PAGA have long argued that the law allowed an army of lawyers to file lawsuits for minor technical violations of the states sprawling labor code, such as spelling errors, that dont relate to more serious issues such as wage theft or poor working conditions. They pointed to cases in which plaintiffs attorneys won bigger payouts than their clients.

Jennifer Barrera, president of the chamber of commerce, said the compromise deal will limit frivolous litigation that has cost employers billions without benefiting workers.

Unions had worried that wage theft would go unpunished if PAGA was repealed. While workers can file claims seeking unpaid wages with the state labor commissioner, that department is understaffed and can take more than two years to reach decisions, according to a state auditor report.

We are happy to have negotiated reforms to PAGA that better ensure abusive practices by employers are cured and that workers are made whole, quicker, said Lorena Gonzalez, the head of the California Labor Federation.

The negotiations over the law mirrored an increasingly familiar playbook in California, where companies often look to sidestep the state legislatures Democratic super-majority by funding ballot measures that would take their arguments directly to voters. They can then use the prospect of a costly ballot fight to force talks overseen by the governors office.

If an agreement is reached, the legislature approves the compromise and all sides avoid spending the tens of millions of dollars that it would cost to to drum up support or opposition for the ballot measure  a scenario that now looks highly likely in the PAGA case.

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
Xi inspects northwest China's Qinghai Province

Xinhua) 10:44, June 19, 2024

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday. During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai. He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation. Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

XINING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspected northwest China's Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Cairo, Egypt (PANA)  The World Health Organization (WHO) remains concerned about the escalating health crisis in the occupied Palestinian territory, including the West Bank, where attacks on health infrastructure and increased restrictions on movement are obstructing access to health care
Forbes, June 13, 2024

By Dr. Ewelina U. Ochab

In June 2024, in the build-up to the 56th session of the Human Rights Council, U.N. Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, published his report on The phenomenon of an institutionalized system of discrimination, segregation, disrespect for human dignity and exclusion of women and girls. The report follows a litany of reports on how, since the Taliban takeover in August 2021, the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan have been perishing one by one.

The report provides a critical analysis of the institutionalized subjugation of Afghan women and girls, encoded in the Talibans gender-based system of discrimination, segregation, disrespect for dignity and exclusion. The report found that The system of discrimination, segregation, disrespect for human dignity and exclusion institutionalized by the Taliban is motivated by and results in a profound rejection of the full humanity of women and girls. It is pervasive and methodical, and is institutionalized through and, in turn, reinforced by edicts and policies sanctioning the severe deprivation of fundamental rights. (...) these deprivations do not exist independently of each other. Rather, each deprivation systematically informs and interacts with others, creating a mutually reinforcing architecture of oppression.

As emphasized by the U.N. Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett, The Talibans institutionalized system of discrimination is most visible through its relentless issuance and enforcement of edicts, decrees, declarations and orders that in and of themselves constitute severe deprivations of human rights and violations of international law. Indeed, since the last U.N. report, and between June 202 and March 2024, the Taliban issued approximately 52 edicts restricting the rights of women and girls across the country. Among others, in June 2023, foreign non-governmental organizations were banned from providing educational programs, including community-based education; and women were banned from participating in radio and television shows alongside male presenters. In July 2023, female beauty salons were forced to close. In August 2023, women were banned from entering Band-e Amir National Park. In October 2023, women were prohibited from holding directorships within non-governmental organizations. In February 2024, women on television were required to wear a black hijab, with their faces covered, leaving only their eyes visible.

The report found that Women and girls are being maneuvred into increasingly narrow roles where the deep-rooted patriarchy, bolstered and legitimized by Taliban ideology, deems them to belong: as bearers and rearers of children, and as objects available for exploitation, including debt bondage, domestic servitude, sexual exploitation and other forms of unremunerated or poorly remunerated labor.

The U.N. Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett noted that in January 2023, in its response to a request from the U.N. Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) for information on the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan since August 15, 2021, the Taliban held that it protected the rights of women and girls in line with sharia and the norms of Afghan society. However, as the U.N. Special Rapporteur emphasized, Assertions of cultural or religious customs and traditions cannot, however, justify violations of human rights. They do not, by any means, justify discrimination or violence, and cannot be used to legitimize exclusion, in violation of international law. He further added that traditional, historical, religious or cultural attitudes are not to be used to justify violations of the right to equality before the law and to equal enjoyment of all human rights. He recalled Article 4 of the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women, under which States should not invoke any custom, tradition or religious consideration to avoid their obligations with respect to the elimination of violence against women.

The U.N. Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett stressed that while the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan is undoubtedly gender persecution as a crime against humanity (Article 7 of the Rome Statute), the situation is more adequately covered by the definition of gender apartheid. While gender apartheid is not criminalized under international law, the report emphasized that In addition to strengthening the normative framework of international law, recognition of the crime against humanity of gender apartheid would more profoundly underscore the duty of States to take effective action to prevent and punish the practice. In turn, it would help to address and end the practice.

The report of the U.N. Special Rapporteur Richard Bennett sends a very strong message that States and the international community cannot continue to ignore the situation hoping that it will resolve itself. The rapid attrition of female autonomy and agency, and the erasure of women and girls from the public, political, economic, social and cultural life of Afghanistan will not end unless the international community acts and acts now.
Musk is attending Cannes Lions this week with an aim to reassure ad groups and global brands over the future of X.

Elon Musk on Wednesday tried to walk back remarks lashing out at advertisers fleeing his X social media platform.

At the Cannes Lions advertising festival in Cannes, France, Musk was asked by WPP CEO Mark Read what he meant by telling advertisers threatening to pull ads from the platform late last year to "go f--- yourself."

Musk said it was meant as a general point on free speech rather than a comment to the wider advertising industry.

"It wasn't to advertisers as a whole," Musk said. "It was with respect to freedom of speech, I think it is important to have a global free speech platform, where people from a wider range of opinions can voice their views."

"In some cases, there were advertisers who were insisting on censorship," Musk said. "At the end of the day  if we have to make a choice between censorship and losing money, [or] censorship and money, or free speech and losing money, we're going to choose the second."
Muslim pilgrims pray around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca on June 18, 2024 at the end of the annual hajj pilgrimage.

MECCA, Saudi Arabia (AP)  Hundreds of people died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced intense high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, officials said Wednesday as people tried to claim their loved ones' bodies.

Saudi Arabia has not commented on the death toll amid the heat during the pilgrimage, required of every able Muslim once in their life, nor offered any causes for those who died. However, hundreds of people had lined up at the Emergency Complex in Al-Muaisem neighborhood in Mecca, trying to get information about their missing family members.

One list circulating online suggested at least 550 people died during the five-day Hajj. A medic who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss information not released publicly by the government said that the names listed appeared genuine. That medic and another official who also spoke on condition of anonymity said they believed at least 600 bodies were at the facility. The list offered no cause of death.

Each year, the Hajj draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from low-income nations, "many of whom have had little, if any, pre-Hajj health care," an article in the April edition of the Journal of Infection and Public Health said. Communicable illnesses can spread among the gathered masses, many of whom saved their entire lives for their trips and can be elderly with preexisting health conditions, the paper added.

However, the number of dead this year suggests something caused the number of deaths to swell. Already, several countries have said some of their pilgrims died because of the heat that swept across the holy sites at Mecca, including Jordan and Tunisia.

Temperatures on Tuesday reached 47 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) in Mecca and the sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Center for Meteorology. Onlookers saw some people faint while trying to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil.

At the Grand Mosque in Mecca, temperatures reached 51.8 C (125 F) on Monday though pilgrims had already left for Mina, authorities said.

Others, including many Egyptians, lost track of their loved ones in the heat and the crowds. More than 1.83 million Muslims performed the Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million pilgrims from 22 countries, and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.

On Wednesday at the medical complex in Mecca, an Egyptian man collapsed to the ground when he heard the name of mother among the dead. He cried for some time before grabbing his cellphone and calling a travel agent, shouting: "He left her to die!" The crowd tried to calm the man.

Security appeared tight at the complex, with an official reading out names of the dead and the nationalities, which included people from Algeria, Egypt and India. Those who said they were kin of the dead were allowed inside to identify the deceased.

The AP could not independently confirm the causes of death for those bodies held at the complex. Saudi officials did not respond to questions seeking more information.

The kingdom's ruling Al Saud family maintains a major influence in the Muslim world through its oil wealth and management of Islam's holiest sites. Like Saudi monarchs before him, King Salman has taken the title of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, referring to the Grand Mosque in Mecca home to the cube-shaped Kaaba that Muslims pray towards five times a day, and the Prophet's Mosque in the nearby city of Medina.

Saudi Arabia has spent billions of dollars on crowd control and safety measures for those attending the annual five-day pilgrimage, but the sheer number of participants makes ensuring their safety difficult.

Climate change could make the risk even greater. A 2019 study by experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that even if the world succeeds in mitigating the worst effects of climate change, the Hajj would be held in temperatures exceeding an "extreme danger threshold" from 2047 to 2052, and from 2079 to 2086.

Islam follows a lunar calendar, so the Hajj falls around 11 days earlier each year. In 2030, the Hajj will occur in April, and over the next several years it will fall in the winter, when temperatures are milder.

A 2015 stampede in Mina during the hajj killed over 2,400 pilgrims, the deadliest incident to ever strike the pilgrimage, an AP count showed. Saudi Arabia has never acknowledged the full toll of the stampede. A separate crane collapse at Mecca's Grand Mosque, which preceded the Mina disaster, killed 111 people.

The second-deadliest incident at hajj was a 1990 stampede that killed 1,426 people.
TOPSHOT - Smoke billows from the site of an Israeli airstrike on Zibqin in southern Lebanon on June 12, 2024.

Israel's army approved an offensive against Lebanon after a spike in cross-border fire, as talk of "all-out war" stoked concerns over the Gaza conflict spiraling into the broader Middle East.

"Operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved and validated, and decisions were taken on the continuation of increasing the readiness of troops in the field" by commanders of the Israel Defense Forces, the Israeli military said Tuesday night, without disclosing whether the initiative would involve mobilizing troops into the neighboring nation.

Israel and Hezbollah, which controls much of Lebanon, have been trading fire since October in parallel with the Jewish nation's war campaign against Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Both Hamas and Hezbollah benefit from Iranian patronage, and the Lebanese group claims solidarity with the plight of Palestinian people  more than 37,000 of whom have been killed since the start of the offensive, according to figures from the local Ministry of Health.

Hostilities intensified after the IDF last week reported that an Israeli strike in the southern Lebanese village of Jouaiyya killed a senior Hezbollah commander, Sami Taleb Abdullah, along with three other group operatives. As recently as Wednesday morning, the Hezbollah-aligned al-Manar TV news outlet reported that the group launched a missile attack targeting Israeli soldier positions in Metula in Israel, according to a Google translation. CNBC could not independently confirm the report.

The IDF announcement came after Hezbollah released a nine-minute video of what it claimed to be aerial footage captured by surveillance drones. The Lebanese group said the area revealed in the clips stretches over 6.5 square kilometers (2.5 square miles) of Israel and is positioned 24 kilometers (nearly 15 miles) off Lebanon's border with the Palestinian territories, alleging that it includes the Haifa port and military base and the Rafael military complex. CNBC could not verify this footage and has reached out to the IDF over its authenticity.

The video ignited fear and fury in Israel, where Haifa mayor Yona Yahav likened it to "psychological terror on residents of Haifa and the north," according to Reuters.

Foreign Minister Israel Katz said in a social media update that his country is now "very close to the moment of decision to change the rules against Hezbollah and Lebanon. In an all-out war, Hezbollah will be destroyed and Lebanon will be severely hit."

Katz acknowledged the likely toll on Israel, which is strained by simultaneously fighting Hamas in the Gaza enclave, and faces increasing international pressure to limit civilian Palestinian casualties.

"The State of Israel will pay a price on the front and home fronts, but with a strong and united nation, and the full power of the IDF, we will restore security to the residents of the north," the foreign minister said.

"I remind you that, according to the United Nations, there is no territorial dispute  no territorial dispute  between Lebanon and Israel," Israeli government spokesman David Mencer said during a Tuesday press briefing. "Whether diplomatically or militarily, one way or another, we will ensure the safe and secure return of Israelis to their homes in northern Israel. That is not up for negotiation."

Security concerns have driven thousands of Lebanese and Israeli civilians to flee their border-facing settlements.
The Diplomat, June 14, 2024

By Shanthie Mariet DSouza

In the first week of June 2024, locals in the remote Tangi Shadan village of Allahyar district of Afghanistans Ghor province discovered the bodies of a 45-year-old widow and her 7-year-old granddaughter. Both had disappeared about two months earlier and are believed to have been killed for their property by men close to Mawlawi Jaber, the Taliban district governor. As her relatives approached the local Taliban office, the governor reportedly asked for the reason for a widow living without remarrying.

In the second week of June, Taliban Supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada issued a decree capping salaries of all female employees in all government as well as non-government sectors, irrespective of the nature of their work, experience, and seniority, at 5,000 Afghanis (around $70) per month, starting from June 2024. Thats the lowest level of salary in the Talibans government structure. The Talibans administrative office confirmed this absurd and blatantly discriminatory policy. In a country where finding employment is a huge challenge, this reinforces working poverty, when even individuals who are employed are nevertheless incapable of taking care of their dependents.

These are two examples of the widespread systematic repression that girls and women have come to endure since the Taliban took over power in August 2021.

The Taliban regime is headed by an obscurantist individual who appears to have no respect for womens rights. Worse still, he faces little challenge within an organization that functions on the principle of loyalty, conformity, and deference. Since none of his policies appear to have been effectively challenged internally, it is almost certain that these are part of the organizations governing principles and are unlikely to change significantly even if the top leadership changes. Akhundzadas decrees have empowered Taliban middle-ranked officials as well as lower-rung foot soldiers to violate womens rights with impunity. That has frequently resulted in incidents like the one that took place in Ghor.

While the broad trends regarding the plight of girls and women in Afghanistan under the Taliban have occasionally caught the attention of the international media, with most Afghan media forced to either comply with the regime or shut down, many incidents of abuse are never reported. Nevertheless, the latest report, released on June 10, by U.N. Women stated that the oppression experienced by women and girls in Afghanistan since the Talibans takeover is unprecedented in scale and generational impact. On June 13, a statement by Catherine Russell, UNICEFs executive director, marked 1,000 days of girls being banned from attending secondary schools in Afghanistan. She said the impact of the ban can have serious ramifications for Afghanistans economy and development trajectory.

Alison Davidian, the U.N. Women Special Representative in Afghanistan, pointed to the extraordinary resilience demonstrated by Afghan women in the face of incredible challenges. She listed women who continue to run organizations, and businesses, and provide services. But resilience doesnt come with a sure-shot element of permanence. It needs to be supported and nurtured.

We must invest in their resilience. Afghanistan must remain high on the international agenda, Davidian said.

A recent interview in The Diplomat highlighted Afghan journalist Zahra Joya, who founded Rukhshana Media in 2020, which provides crucial feminist perspectives on the developments in Afghanistan. In one of their recently filed stories, Rukhshana Media detailed how unceasing Taliban repression is impacting the profitability of female-led businesses in Badakhshan.

It is therefore important to ask two pertinent questions: Without significant external assistance, how long can such resilience, especially by those who are located within the country, last? And what more can be done beyond periodic reports by U.N. agencies that highlight the diminished womens rights in the country?

Despite the impressive work by UNICEF as it continues to support 2.7 million children in primary education, running community-based education classes for 600,000 children, two-thirds of whom are girls, and training teachers, the U.N. and its members have been at fault for failing on at least two accounts. First, there is no unified push to expedite efforts to criminalize gender apartheid. It needs to be explicitly codified in international law. Second, the U.N. has not implemented the Security Councils resolution 2721 (2023) on appointing a special envoy, despite six months having passed since its issuance on December 29, 2023.

A part of the existing problem could also be rooted in the approach of the regional countries, which have queued up to do business with the Islamic Emirate. It is useful to ask: when was the last time an important official of a regional country directly raised the question of womens rights in Afghanistan? Is it possible to establish a link between the hardening of the Talibans posture on womens rights with the increasing desperation of the regional countries to engage the regime?

In todays circumstances, the regional powers, compared to the far-off West, potentially wield tremendous influence on the Taliban. But their impetuosity to secure their own interests in Afghanistan has led to a meek surrender of such leverage. The Taliban certainly need to be engaged. But an important principle of this engagement process needs to have the intent and vision to bring about change the Talibans discriminatory policies, not endorse them.
The market is underestimating one corner of artificial intelligence, according to Morgan Stanley. That's advanced packaging in semiconductors, which consists of technologies that package integrated circuits to "increase functionality, high performance and form the foundation for more powerful and more efficient AI chips"  the last step in semiconductor manufacturing, after design and fabrication, the bank explained. It's the process of packaging fabricated chips to protect them and enable them to connect to external devices, it added. The innovation in the sector is set to drive AI chip capabilities, said Morgan Stanley. It said packaging is a "critical means" of increasing processing power as AI becomes more widespread. "Unlike traditional electronics packaging for PCs or smartphones, today's AI systems require [graphics processing units], CPUs, high-bandwidth memory (HBM), I/O controllers, and other components to relay information at blazing speeds and as energy-efficiently as possible," the bank's analysts wrote. "Previously considered 'back-end' and as a cost center, packaging is now the primary way to improve performance as manufacturers struggle to scale geometry profitably," they said. "Engineers have realized that they can utilize all parts of a chip, including the packaging, to increase performance." Morgan Stanley predicts the market in advanced packaging will be worth $116 billion by 2027, calling it an "upgrade supercycle," fueled by AI's "insatiable demand for computing power, memory, and even new chip architectures." "We think the market underestimates both the pace of innovation and the implications for growth," the bank said. Morgan Stanley says it sees "outsized winners" in Japan, South Korea and the European Union. It named stocks to play the advanced packaging trend, adding that they fall into one of two categories: tech companies at the forefront of AI computing and those benefiting from packaging supply chains. Here's what the bank says about some of its picks. United States Amkor : The firm is set to be "uniquely positioned" to benefit from the Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test Services industry (OSAT), which is at a "transformational moment," Morgan Stanley said. The bank noted the company has plans to build an advanced packaging and testing facility in Arizona  which will then package and test chips produced for Apple at the nearby TSMC facility. "Amkor intends to build out more than 500,000sf of clean room space with manufacturing targeted to be ready for production within the next 2-3 years," said Morgan Stanley, referring to a type of highly controlled environment to make semiconductors. "This would position Amkor as an enabler of domestic end-to-end leading edge production." ACM Research : The bank noted that SK Hynix, the world's second-largest maker of memory chips, is a key client for ACM Research. It says there may be upside for ACM's business if it's able to ship copper plating and advanced packaging products for SK Hynix's high-bandwidth memory production line. It predicts that will happen when SK Hynix's HBM4 product is launched. It started producing HBM3E earlier this year. Taiwan TSMC : Morgan Stanley noted the Taiwanese semiconductor firm is a major provider of CoWoS technology, a type of packaging technology. It pointed out that 6%-7% of TSMC's total 2023 revenue was from advanced packaging and testing. But Morgan Stanley predicted that would exceed 10% in 2024 with the firm's capacity in this technology set to more than double this year. "TSMC continues to develop different variants of advanced packaging technologies for customers' different demands," the bank added. AP Memory: Memory bandwidth and power consumption are essential for AI computing, and this firm's packaging technology could be the "effective" solution to provide that because it can achieve 10 times the memory bandwidth and 90% power reduction of the HBM2E technology, a high-bandwidth memory technology. Japan Morgan Stanley says it favors Disco and Advantest the most out of all the companies in Japan that are producing equipment for advanced packaging. It says that Disco is adopting a strategy that will keep it as a "high-profit company" by providing "appropriate solutions" ahead of other companies. Advantest is likely to benefit from "strong growth" in the advanced package tester market through this decade, it added.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
Oil prices dipped on Wednesday after hitting seven-week highs as summer demand optimism and concerns over escalating conflicts offset an industry report that said U.S. crude inventories unexpectedly rose.

Brent crude futures slipped 6 cents, or 0.1%, to $85.33 a barrel by 1803 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was down 8 cents, or 0.1%, at $81.57 per barrel.

Brent reached $85.84 a barrel earlier in the session, its highest since May 1, while WTI traded up to $81.96 a barrel, the highest level since April 30.

Trading activity was thin due to a U.S. federal holiday.

"The current snapshot presents an underwhelming picture but there are green shoots that indicate a more optimistic outlook," said Tamas Varga of oil broker PVM.

The Brent price being $8 over the lows hit in early June "shows genuine optimism that the global oil balance will eventually tighten," Varga added.

Both benchmarks, having recovered strongly in the last two weeks, gained more than $1 in the previous session after a Ukrainian drone strike led to an oil terminal fire at a major Russian port.

In the Middle East, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz warned of a possible "all out war" with Lebanon's Hezbollah, even as the U.S. attempted to avoid a broader conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed group.

An escalating war risks supply disruption in the oil-producing region.

"The potential escalation of tensions in the Middle East is adding some supply risk to the oil demand equation," said Bart Melek, head of commodity strategy at TD Bank, adding recent U.S. economic data supported bets the Federal Reserve would move towards cutting interest rates in coming months.

China data this week showed May industrial output lagged expectations, but retail sales, a gauge of consumption, marked the quickest growth since February.

Meanwhile, U.S. crude stocks rose by 2.264 million barrels in the week ended June 14, market sources said on Tuesday, citing American Petroleum Institute figures. Analysts polled by Reuters had expected a 2.2 million barrel draw in crude stocks.

However, gasoline inventories fell by 1.077 million barrels, while distillates rose by 538,000 barrels, the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Official stocks data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration is due on Thursday.
Ilya Sutskever, co-founder and chief scientist of OpenAI, speaks at Tel Aviv University in Tel Aviv, Israel, June 5, 2023.

OpenAI co-founder Ilya Sutskever, who left the artificial intelligence startup last month, introduced his new AI company, which he's calling Safe Superintelligence, or SSI.

"I am starting a new company," Sutskever wrote on X on Wednesday. "We will pursue safe superintelligence in a straight shot, with one focus, one goal, and one product."

Sutskever was OpenAI's chief scientist and co-led the company's Superalignment team with Jan Leike, who also left in May to join rival AI firm Anthropic.

OpenAI's Superalignment team was focused on steering and controlling AI systems but was dissolved shortly after Sutskever and Leike announced their departures.

Sutskever will continue to focus on safety at his new startup.

"SSI is our mission, our name, and our entire product roadmap, because it is our sole focus," an account for SSI posted on X. "Our singular focus means no distraction by management overhead or product cycles, and our business model means safety, security, and progress are all insulated from short-term commercial pressures."

Sutskever is starting the company with Daniel Gross, who oversaw Apple 's AI and search efforts, and Daniel Levy, formerly of OpenAI. The company has offices in Palo Alto, California, as well as Tel Aviv, Israel.

Sutskever was one of the OpenAI board members behind the attempt to oust co-founder and CEO Sam Altman in November. Altman and Sutskever, along with other directors, clashed over the guardrails OpenAI had put in place in the pursuit of advanced AI.

Following Altman's sudden ouster and before his quick reinstatement, Sutskever publicly apologized for his role in the ordeal.

"I deeply regret my participation in the board's actions," Sutskever wrote in a post on X on Nov. 20. "I never intended to harm OpenAI. I love everything we've built together and I will do everything I can to reunite the company."

WATCH: Microsoft gets put on AI back foot after Apple-OpenAI deal
Social media algorithms have led to a more meritocratic advertising landscape that the industry has been slow to catch up with, according to VaynerMedia CEO Gary Vaynerchuk.

"The social media I grew up with... it was more like email marketing," the agency executive told CNBC's Tania Bryer at the Cannes Lions festival, a major fixture in the advertising world's calendar.

Vaynerchuk co-founded restaurant booking platform Resy and was an early investor in the X social media platform, formerly known as Twitter.

"Every brand that's here, you would try to amass as many followers as you could, and then you would post, and a percentage of them would see it," he said.

"Now we live in a world of social media over the last two, three years, five years, where the AI algorithms that give you the For You page, the content is finding the audience."

"For You" is a feature of Chinese-owned social media app TikTok which serves a scrollable stream of videos based on trending content and on users' past usage of the app.
The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of drones and missiles for an estimated $360 million, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

The U.S. State Department has approved the possible sale to Taiwan of drones and missiles for an estimated $360 million, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

The United States is bound by law to provide Chinese-claimed Taiwan with the means to defend itself despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, to the constant anger of Beijing.

China has been stepping up military pressure against Taiwan, including staging war games around the island last month after the inauguration of Lai Ching-te as president.

The sale "will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region," the Pentagon agency said in separate statements on Tuesday in the United States.
RAWANEWS, June 19, 2024



Post of the spokesperson for the Taliban's Ministry of [anti]Higher Education on X. Post of the spokesperson for the Taliban's Ministry of [anti]Higher Education on X.

Hafiz Ziaullah Hashimi, the spokesperson for the Taliban's Ministry of [anti]Higher Education, shared a video clip of Sheikh Abdul Ali Deobandi on his X profile, labeling it an important Fatwa. In the clip, Sheikh Deobandi states that teaching women, even at home, is prohibited because it leads to writing letters to men, which he considers sinful. A Fatwa is an Islamic legal opinion issued by a qualified scholar on specific religious or legal issues.

The full remarks of Sheikh Ali Deobandi:

Whether a woman is young or old, whether she is from the family or an outsider, she is prohibited from attending congregational prayers because she causes immorality. It is a time of temptation, and people of this time are corrupt. So, teaching women this type of writing, where a woman learns to write, causes corruption. With this skill, she learns affection and starts sending letters to people, similar to how mobile phones are now used in homes, through which women establish inappropriate relationships that increase vice and immorality on the earth. Thus, learning to read and write at home is also prohibited for women, and this trait is not acceptable among our women. If people ask why there are schools in Islamic countries where women learn to read and write, these so-called Islamic countries are only Islamic in name; they are under the influence of non-believers.

It has been over 1,000 days since the Taliban banned all girls above 6th grade from attending schools and closed all educational centers for women.
A new study has uncovered a reciprocal relationship between depression and memory decline among adults aged 50 and older. This research marks the first comprehensive investigation into the interconnected nature of these two conditions, highlighting significant implications for future treatments.

Led by senior investigator Dorina Cadar, Ph.D., from Brighton and Sussex Medical School, UK, the study analyzed data spanning 16 years from 8,268 participants. The findings reveal that individuals with higher levels of depressive symptoms experienced accelerated memory loss. Conversely, significant memory decline was also found to exacerbate depressive symptoms, demonstrating a bidirectional relationship between the two conditions.

Cadar emphasized the novel aspect of their work, underscoring that both depression and memory loss share common biological pathways involving neurotransmitter dysregulation, particularly serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These imbalances, she explained, can impair synaptic plasticity crucial for cognitive function and memory formation, particularly in brain regions like the hippocampus.

"Serotonin is involved in the modulation of mood and cognition, and its deficit can lead to reduced neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a brain region critical for memory consolidation," Cadar explained to Medical News Today.

According to David Merrill, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Brain Health Center at Pacific Neuroscience Institute, the study published in JAMA Network Psychiatry, challenges previous notions of treating depression and memory loss separately. He highlighted the shared neural circuits involved in mood regulation and memory formation, suggesting integrated treatment approaches could yield better outcomes.

"The circuitry and the cells and the synapses involved in memory formation have a profound overlap with the circuitry involved in moods, mood regulation, and mood formation," Merrill, who was not involved in the study, said.

He emphasized the importance of controlling for mood when studying memory. He highlighted the common origin of both depression and dementia, stating, "The substrate of the creation of both phenomena is coming out of the same thing."

The implications extend beyond clinical practice to potential lifestyle interventions. Merrill proposed physical activity as a promising intervention stating,"Exercise is probably the best single intervention for the aging body and the aging brain." He emphasized the importance of addressing depression early, as it can lead to social isolation and worsen cognitive decline over time.

Moving forward, the study advocates for integrated treatment strategies that consider both mood and memory health. This approach may involve interdisciplinary collaboration among psychologists, neurologists, and healthcare providers to develop holistic care plans tailored to individual needs.
The call for heightened scrutiny of social media's impact on children has intensified, driven by Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's renewed plea for warning labels on social media platforms. This comes amidst mounting evidence linking social media to deteriorating youth mental health, echoing his advisory from the previous year.

While states like New York are implementing measures against "addictive" social media algorithms, including a recent ban announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) represents a significant legislative step forward. Expected to go to vote soon, KOSA promises to enhance parental control over their children's online activities, but critics argue that these measures are insufficient in tackling the broader issue of digital harm that extends to all users.

Aaron Mackey of the Electronic Frontier Foundation has noted a critical oversight: focusing solely on children's protection may inadvertently ignore the pervasive impact social media has on adults. The same algorithms that undermine teenagers' self-esteem also affect adults, suggesting a need for more comprehensive reforms beyond age-specific interventions.

It is odd that we use children as the wedge to address the problem. Any sort of effort that involves just children  say, childrens privacy or harms to children  is under-inclusive, because those harms, they dont really have an age gap, Mackey said.

Historically, U.S. policy has approached online safety through the lens of protecting children, dating back to the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) of 1998. However, this approach often leaves broader data privacy issues unaddressed, as evidenced by the lack of comprehensive data privacy legislation in the United States.

Surgeon General Murthy's warnings align with a broader movement aimed at curbing the adverse effects of social media. Last year's advisory by Murthy, alongside President Joe Biden's executive order on youth mental health, set the stage for legislative efforts like KOSA, which seeks to hold platforms accountable for their impact on children and provide parents with better tools for managing their kids' online presence. Yet, the act stops short of addressing the wider implications for adult users, according to Vox.

Grassroots initiatives, such as those championed by NYU professor Jonathan Haidt in his bestselling book "The Anxious Generation," showed the need for a multifaceted approach to digital safety. Haidt's work, which attributes the youth mental health crisis partly to social media, has energized movements advocating for reduced screen time and healthier online habits.

Despite the legislative momentum, the effectiveness of restricting social media access remains uncertain. Critics argue that warning labels and outright bans could amount to censorship and may not address the root causes of online harm. Additionally, warnings similar to those on retouched media images could paradoxically exacerbate the very issues they aim to mitigate.

Young people's perspectives add another layer to the debate. A 2023 Pew study revealed that a significant majority of teens find social media beneficial for social connection and support. Camille Carlton of the Center for Humane Technology notes that while young people seek the positive aspects of social media, they also desire mechanisms to balance its use without falling into harmful patterns.

Ultimately, as the Kids Online Safety Act inches closer to a potential vote, the conversation around social media regulation must broaden. Addressing the platform's impact on all users, not just children, could pave the way for more effective and inclusive digital policies.
The top times Dennis, Charlie, Mac, Dee and Frank almost seemed like not-assholes, assuming you knew nothing else about them

If you only ever witnessed the Paddys Pub gang while they were on their best behavior, youd think that they were all upstanding, conscientious citizens who just want to save dumpster babies from the foster care system  right after they finish putting on the shoe polish.

Dennis, Mac, Charlie, Dee and Frank are the five worst people in Philadelphia, a city where the righteous and the moral arent exactly the majority. Rob McElhenney, Glenn Howerton and Charlie Day designed the Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia characters to be the absolute worst of us, embodying every selfish, stupid flaw in the human psyche as they terrorize everyone with the misfortune to cross their paths. But every now and then, the gang catches on to the changing times and makes a half-hearted, completely empty attempt to be empathetic and socially aware individuals when it serves their schemes.

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As such, here are the best Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia quotes that, in a vacuum, make members of the gang seem like theyre not the absolute scum of the earth, starting with

6

Mac champions the cause of parentless children in The Gang Finds a Dumpster Baby  for about an afternoon. Then, he decides to try to turn D.B. into a child star. There are roughly 400,000 children stuck in Americas foster-care system, but only one of them got painted brown by a couple of strangers while two other maniacs fought over an Ali Baba sword right next to their stroller.

5



In the same episode as the last entry, the Golden God finds his conscience and becomes a straight edge, mainline, weekend warrior, only to get punked out by some hippies and immediately reverse course. That poor tree didnt deserve what happened at the end of the episode, but Sage kinda did.

4

One of the best running gags on It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia is that, despite being racist, misogynist and xenophobic bigots, the gang has been gay-friendly since the very beginning, and Dees anti-conversion therapy argument in The Gang Recycles Their Trash would make her seem like an ally if not for all the hilarious twink-twonk-twank taxonomy talk that preceded it.

3

Without context, youd think that Mac was the co-owner of a roller rink or an arcade  you know, places where kids can safely go to be kids. But, no, Mac co-owns and runs security for a bar that doesnt card teenagers in Underage Drinking: A National Concern, leading to Dee and Dennis getting into some shadily statutory situations.

2



Letting a dear friend be themselves and find happiness however they choose is a noble sentiment  unless youre that friends AA sponsor, and that happiness comes from spiking a milk bowl with bath salts. In The Maureen Ponderosa Wedding Massacre, Franks support of his sponsoree Pondy nearly spells the end for a bunch of inbred Philadelphia hill people.
The secret to Emma Stones success is suffering, from when she three months old

Did you know that Sylvester Stallones trademark face, complete with a permanent snarl, comes from facial paralysis, following nerve damage that he sustained during a messy birth? Suddenly, you might feel weird making jokes about his look, or even from taking any pleasure at looking at him.

On the other hand, maybe you shouldnt feel weird about it after all. Sure, maybe his quirk began as a medical condition, but he rode it to big success and its now as ripe for appreciation as any other part of him. Same deal when you learn that...

5 Emma Stones Husky Voice Came From Colic As A Baby Don't Miss If we were to ever interview Emma Stone, were not sure we would ask her the question, So, about the voice? Seems like kind of a weird thing to demand, especially if we were asking this in 2011, before her Oscar win for a musical made it clear no ones saying she has a bad voice. But that was the question posed to her in an interview 13 years ago, and it turned out to have an actual answer. Searchlight Pictures First a joke answer, about her smoking as a toddler, but then an actual answer. Stone had colic as a baby. The poor thing screamed so hard for her first six months that her vocal cords grew nodules, and these calluses remained her whole life. Essentially, her vocal cords turned to stone. That made her voice raspy now and leaves her easily losing her voice after any kind of screaming, so be sure to schedule a few weeks for recovery the next time you write screams into one of her movies.

4 DJ Qualls Got That Face Thanks to Cancer You might recognize DJ Qualls from his one-episode roles in Breaking Bad, Lost or Scrubs. You also might know him from the movie Road Trip or from his lead role in The New Guy, which is surely the best movie to currently have a 7 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes. That last part wasnt meant as a backhanded compliment. It really is a funny film, and we dont know why it has a score that low. Was every reviewer just in a really bad mood that day? Advertisement Anyway, its one of many parts that capitalized on Qualls signature look, which could be summarized as skinny guy with funny face. Columbia Pictures Probably doesnt have much luck with girls, said casting agents. By the way, Qualls is gay. He had that thin look, and the hollowed-out face, from his time as a kid with Hodgkins disease. The chemotherapy killed his fast-growing cells, hed later explain, keeping his bones from widening much. Some years after those biggest parts, his face would fill out a bit, alternately through eating or through facial hair. Regardless, cancer is a very serious illness, almost as serious as the condition initially suffered by his New Guy character, which was a fractured penis. The movie actually gets better after the penis-breaking scene, we swear.

3 Columbos Trademark Stare Was from a Glass Eye Advertisement Advertisement When Columbo actor Peter Falk was three, he had a retinoblastoma, a cancer of the eye. Even today, the condition is most common in toddlers, and today, its not terribly bad, as cancers go. You can freeze the malignant cells away or blast them with radiation, and that might take care of it just fine. When Falk was a kid, only one treatment existed: full removal of the eyeball. Can you spot which of his eyes was glass? CBS Its ol righty, of course. Lefty sparkles with life. If you dont know the eye is glass, it just looks like hes squinting at you, which can be quite unnerving if you committed a murder two days ago and are hoping to get away with it. We might assume that the character Columbo has a glass eye just like the actor does, though the show never made a big deal of it. There was one episode, though, where he welcomes a partner, saying Three eyes are better than one.

2 Danny DeVitos Shortness Is an Actual Disease Advertisement And that disease is not dwarfism. Dwarfism is not a disease but just an umbrella term that covers various different conditions that could leave someone with a extremely short stature. The most common of these conditions is called achondroplasia  and thats not the one Danny DeVito has. DeVito has Fairbanks disease. Its the second condition were covering today that affects growth, but this one keeps bones from elongating rather than from thickening. It makes for a childhood that involves a fair amount of physical pain. Advertisement Warner Bros. Particularly if the child is forced to live in the sewers. We trust its no longer impeding his life all that much, because the man turns 80 this year, and at that age, youre going to be feeling a fair amount of pain every day even if you dont have any kind of skeletal dysplasia. Advertisement
Wed like to think that the Secret Service, in their modern duty of presidential protection at least, are impenetrable. After all, they have a pretty binary job, and youd think that if they fucked up, wed know about it  by nature of, you know, all the flags at half-mast.

But that doesnt mean that they havent stained the bed a good couple of times in smaller ways. Which I guess is what they can always claim at the hearings, saying, Hey, hes alive, isnt he? But especially with a Secret Service agent recently being robbed at gunpoint, it can start to make people wonder, Wait, are these guys fallible?

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Here are a few times the Secret Service could have used another helping hand

5 Crashing Into Their Own Security Barrier Pixabay I have to imagine guarding the president is a high-stress job, and judging by the amount of alcohol-related Secret Service oopsies that have popped up, I have a hunch on how some of them deal with it. For example, in 2015, two men drove their car into a security barrier at the White House, while there was an active bomb threat, which I assume results in an immediate DEFCON one billion being sent out over those little earpieces. Luckily, it ended up being little more than a suit-and-tie version of that Spider-Man meme when they realized that the passengers were two Secret Service agents, not-so-secretly shitfaced after coming straight from a retirement party. Advertisement

4 A Mysterious Bullet Left Behind A single bullet left in a hotel room sounds like something out of a spy novel, where youd assume the bullet was untraceable, or maybe silver if the president was a werewolf. But nothing that exciting happened in 2013. Instead, it was the overly horny error of a Secret Service agent who met a woman at a hotel bar, which I think should basically be forbidden if you work in intelligence. He then followed her up to her room (with permission), but she freaked out when she realized he was carrying a firearm. He attempted to calm her down by removing the magazine and clearing the chamber. Unfortunately, he left the bullet hed removed from the chamber in the womans room, and when he turned to the hotel for help finding it, they called the Secret Service. Advertisement 3 When Biden Advertisement  Public Domain s Dog Kept Biting Them I apologize to the pants legs and thighs of the affected agents, but this is never not going to be a little funny to me. If you never read about this recurring problem, apparently Bidens dogs have a particular taste for his guardians. Theyre German Shepherds, too, so these arent little ankle nips. First, his dog Major repeatedly bit Secret Service agents, necessitating his removal from the White House. A lonely Biden re-upped with another German Shepherd named Commander, who promptly filled his predecessors paws, biting over 24 agents  the kind of bite count that would get him commendations in some sort of dog military.

2 Secret Service Cutting Loose in Colombia The headline Secret Service Sex Scandal is a delightful bit of alliteration, but probably one the Secret Service itself didnt enjoy. In 2012, on a visit to Cartagena, Colombia, multiple secret service agents allegedly partied hard, including hiring sex workers, which, to be fair, is legal under certain circumstances in Colombia. I cant imagine, though, that its recommended for people with direct access to the president. Hey, Barack, this is my new friend Ms. Honeypot! would probably be met with frowns. Its also legal to raise snakes, but I wouldnt do it in a chicken coop.
A European Union legislative body is closing in on a final proposal for chat surveillance controls, despite growing opposition from industry groups and privacy advocates.

Last November the Civil Liberties Committee of the European Parliament voted to exclude bans on end-to-end encryption from a draft regulation on combatting child sexual abuse, and to limit scanning of uploaded files to targeted cases with judicial oversight in its version of the bill.

However, another branch of the European Unions legislative structure, the European Council, is reportedly close to finalizing a proposal that would make scanning of uploaded files mandatory. A decision by justice and home affairs officials, due this week, would be followed by a negotiation designed to reconcile the differing political positions.
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Prince Andrew is said to be ready to bequeath the lease on Royal Lodge to his daughters.

The 30-room mansion is a money pit. When the lease runs out in 2079 the property reverts to the Crown Estate.

While Beatrice and Eugenie would be wiser to put their money elsewhere their dad may have an ulterior motive.

Andrew would prefer to leave it to ex-wife Sarah, who occupies half of the lodge, but the lease specifies it can only be passed to his children or his widow  and the Crown Estate won't recognise a divorced wife as a widow.

Despite Fergie's reservations, is it time to recycle the old confetti and re-wed Andy?

Prince Andrew (pictured) is said to be ready to bequeath the lease on Royal Lodge to his daughters

The 30-room Royal Lodge (pictured above) is a money pit. When the lease runs out in 2079 the property reverts to the Crown Estate

While Beatrice and Eugenie (pictured) would be wiser to put their money elsewhere their dad may have an ulterior motive

Have William and Kate considered reviving the royal tradition of teaching their children how to vote?

In an effort to show how 'ordinary people' live George V set up a mock polling station in Buckingham Palace on the eve of the 1922 election.

And the late Queen got the ballot box out again and persuaded PM Harold Wilson to provide speakers to give the young Charles and Anne a flavour of the hustings.

What are the odds on mischievous Prince Louis spoiling his vote?

Have William and Kate considered reviving the royal tradition of teaching their children how to vote?

Under-fire ex-Post Office chief Paula Vennells is remembered by a contemporary at Bradford University in the unlikely role of a feverish disco dancer.

The ex-colleague, who studied modern languages with Vennells, both graduating in 1981, recalls: 'I can remember her from discos  she was small with blonde hair, a loud mouth and huge teeth. Nothing like you see now  no posh voice.'

The big hit she bopped to was Gloria Gaynor's I Will Survive  something that Disco Paula must still chant as a mantra.

Under-fire ex-Post Office chief Paula Vennells (pictured) is remembered by a contemporary at Bradford University in the unlikely role of a feverish disco dancer

Lucian Freud's studio assistant David Dawson, who forensically photographed the artist at work  including when he was painting the late Queen  has snaps of Kate Moss when she visited his deathbed with flowers.

Pulling back the covers, Freud declared as she clambered into bed beside him: 'I've been keeping it warm for you.' Will the touching vignette feature in the forthcoming film Moss & Freud?

Ex-Python Eric Idle doesn't mention the victory over Serbia, tweeting: 'Watching the British boo their opponent's national anthem and then stand fervently asking God to save just one person in a population of 67million, you realise how absurd the whole thing is. Maybe Europe realises You're Going Home!'

Prue Leith nominates fellow cook Jamie Oliver as her hero: 'He always calls me Babe. If you are 84 and someone calls you Babe then that is wonderful.'

But cynical Prue has doubts, adding: 'Perhaps he calls everyone Babe. Perhaps he calls me Babe because he can't remember my name?'
Oh, how they laughed. Asked on Monday whether it was his intention to campaign for outright power in 2029, Nigel Farage was clear. Yes, absolutely, he told the BBC. He planned to build a bridgehead in the commons at this election, then construct a big national campaigning movement around the country over the course of the next five years for genuine change.

The response was mockery. Ridiculous, said departing Cabinet minister Michael Gove. Dont be silly, proclaimed Tony Blairs biographer John Rentoul.

Theyre wrong. Our political establishment may not want to hear it. But with only two weeks of the campaign left, Reforms leader now has a clear and credible path to Downing Street.

Reform Party leader Nigel Farage speaks at a Meet Nigel Farage event in Clacton yesterday

Stage one involves him winning in Clacton. And that currently appears to be a formality. A projection published yesterday by pollster Ipsos has Farage on 52 per cent, with Labour way back on 24 per cent. The bookies have him 1-5 on to win the Essex seat. Yesterday he packed out the 820-seat Princes Theatre, in an event that one journalist likened to a rock concert.

Stage two is even easier to navigate, because it involves Tory wipe-out (guaranteed), followed by a realignment on the Right (equally inevitable). The current state of the Governments fortunes was perfectly summed up by Mel Strides performance on this mornings media round. The fact the hitherto anonymous Work and Pensions Secretary is now regularly being sent out to act as a sort of political pinata tells its own story.

But if anyone failed to get the message, Stride himself spelt it out. You could see a Labour government with 450 or 460 seats, the biggest majority in the history of this country, he explained helpfully.

Once that wipe-out has occurred, the remnants of the Conservative Party will draw a single, simple conclusion. That they can never again go into a campaign with their electoral coalition split in two.

Indeed, many Tory MPs arent even willing to wait for that result. Last week it emerged former minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns was distributing campaign literature with photographs of her attending Nigel Farages birthday party emblazoned across the front. When challenged, a spokesman said: She finds it regrettable that party leaders have not been able to see the bigger picture in uniting the right to stop a socialist supermajority. After the election, Conservative MPs will need to work with a wider conservative movement to achieve their goals.

Jenkyns reflects the view of many of her colleagues. Which is why this will almost certainly be the last general election fought by the Conservative Party as currently constituted. The New Conservatives or Reformed Conservatives will be on the ballot paper in 2029. And when that realignment happens, stage three of Nigel Farages five-year masterplan will fall neatly into place.

Because as soon as the new party is established, Farage becoming its leader will be as inevitable as night following day. Whoever is elected as Rishi Sunaks immediate replacement will have been forced to run on a ticket of reaching out to the Reform leader, and bringing him into the Tory fold. And when they do, it will be a similar scenario to the one we saw when Theresa May brought Boris into her Cabinet. Everything the new Conservative leader does will be run through the prism of what does Nigel think? He will slowly but surely consume their political oxygen. And then, when the moment is right, strike out and replace them.

Snappily dressed Farage's footwear included these patriotic-looking socks

Crowds of Reform fans at the Meet Nigel Farage event in Clacton. Farage will soon be official leader of the opposition, with all the stature the office bestows, writes Dan Hodges

Former minister Dame Andrea Jenkyns has been distributing campaign literature with photographs of her attending Nigel Farages birthday party

At which point all bets are off. Farage will be official leader of the opposition, with all the stature the office bestows. And the only thing then standing between him and power will be Keir Starmer.

Yes, the new Labour government will almost certainly enjoy a huge majority. But it will also be confronted by an enormous set of challenges. An ailing economy, record taxation, unprecedented borrowing, crumbling public services, zero fiscal headroom. This will be Starmer and Reevess inheritance. Small boats. Putin. China. President Trump the Sequel. A resurgent European Right. A higher-education crisis. Wokery running rampant. A law and order crisis. Red Wall betrayal. Blue Wall suspicion and resentment. A Corbynite insurgency. Resurgent Welsh and Scottish nationalism.

A single slip by Starmer or maybe a black swan event will be all that it would take to fatally undermine his premiership. At that moment, the famous door to No.10 will swing open.

Is any of this pre-ordained? No. The Conservatives could look at how Donald Trump has hijacked U.S. Republicanism, and turn their backs on Farages Faustian allure. Boris could return, and go head to head with Farage in a gripping Tory version of Kong v Godzilla. Starmer could go on and on and on, patiently grinding Farage and his populism into the dust.

But make no mistake, the chain-smoking populist does now have a plausible path to power.
It began during the final geography lesson of the day: we were revising how glaciers are formed, somewhere in the bit about compression forcing snow to recrystallise into ice. I remember the classrooms high ceilings and vast, Victorian sash windows and the way the January light was fast fading outside.

We didnt sit at desks. The tables were arranged in a large square and our small, first year A-level group, sat around the edges, poring over our textbooks, already thinking ahead to the evening  buses home, dinner, friends.

Then I felt a foot touch mine. It wasnt a brush but a definite nudge. It continued to nudge, circling my own foot in a very decided way, unseen, under the table. I looked up, confused. I didnt have a boyfriend or, as far as I knew, any admirer who would want to play surreptitious footsie with me during a geography class.

All the boys were looking down at their books. But then our teacher  whom we called by his first name, James (not his real name, obviously)  lifted his head and smiled at me in such a knowing way there was no mistaking the foot belonged to him.

Thirty-seven years later, I still think back to that moment, the flush that crept from my neck to my face and the flutter of adolescent thrill. And I still wonder what possessed him, a married man in his thirties, to step off that precipice a few months later, with a girl who had never had a boyfriend and was still a virgin.

It was having a conversation with her own children that made Shona (pictured aged 17) realise that her geography teacher had groomed her

Its a scene that must have played out in hundreds of classrooms and private tutorials. I had no idea what a cliche it was back then  no idea about anything very much actually.

I had joined this sixth form college from an all girls convent in Somerset, where I had boarded for the previous eight years. To say I had been sheltered is an understatement.

So, though some might regard it as OTT, I am in favour of Cambridge Universitys decision to crack down on relationships between staff and students. New rules in force from July 1 will ban sexual encounters between students and professors where the tutor has any direct or indirect academic responsibility for the student concerned. Students will also be warned against flirting with staff.

If something similar had been in place when I was in sixth form it might have deterred my teacher from taking advantage of me. Not that it felt like that at the time  I was so naive I saw our affair as an adventure, my first taste of adult life. Its only now I can see how much damage it caused.

At 16, I was no precocious temptress, oozing sex appeal and confidence. If anything, I was gawky, slightly odd-looking, and had a bit of a Bloomsbury set vibe going  round wire-framed glasses (which I didnt need), long skirts, tweed jackets.

But I was funny. And I was hopelessly romantic in a ridiculous, up-for-anything kind of way. So, from the moment I first clapped eyes on James I was absolutely smitten. As well as being my A-level geography teacher he was also my personal tutor.

On enrolment day, when I found my form room, he was in there alone, swinging back on his chair, feet up on the desk. I clocked his cord trousers, brown brogues and slightly dishevelled hair.

Shona is in favour of Cambridge Universitys new rules to crack down on relationships between staff and students, which come into force on July 1

The only member of the opposite sex Id had any contact with at the convent was Father Kennedy, whom we all secretly fancied. (Dont judge  men were thin on the ground). James looked me up and down, grinned, and said: Did someone pay you to wear that outfit?

What started as a hopeless crush on my part soon became an overwhelming obsession that he did nothing to discourage. My parents were going through a messy divorce so, at home, nobody was paying much attention to what I was doing.

It was easy for me to stay late after college to help tidy the geography room or  sadder still  linger around in the corridors of the college, hoping he would stop and talk to me.

James wrote poetry as a hobby and began asking me to type it up for him on the staff room computer, long after all the other teachers had left.

He wasnt coming anywhere near me and I didnt, in all honesty, believe he ever would. But this didnt stop the adoration I felt and, looking back as an adult, I can see this must have been glaringly obvious to him.

As a mother of three young women, I have spent hours trying to make sense of what happened next.

I told myself for decades that I pursued this man shamelessly, stalking him around the college and waiting in the car park for a glimpse of him leaving. I blamed myself for the events that unfolded, as if it were me who was the predator, pursuing my married teacher to the point where he could no longer resist.

It has, Im embarrassed to admit, taken my three, twenty-something children to force me to understand that this carefully crafted narrative is utter nonsense.

Shona joined the sixth form college from an all girls' convent in Somerset, where she is pictured second row up, third from left

When I recalled my teacher/pupil affair and described it to them as some kind of character-building, regrettable adventure, they looked at me with pity. Mum, you were groomed, they said, with that unswerving sense of righteousness Gen Zers do so well.

Even so, I am uncomfortable with being put in a victim box. Ive liked to think I felt in control of what was happening. I desperately wanted it too.

To give James credit, apart from all the menial jobs he threw me, like gravy bones to an eager puppy, he was pretty responsible at resisting me for the first year.

Things developed very slowly and, I can see now, carefully. I turned 17 and began my second year of A-levels. All that had occurred to this point was his hand on the small of my back as I left the classroom, that touch of his foot on mine under the table. And lots of banter.

He constantly insulted what I wore, how I wrote, and my grasp of orographic rainfall. God, Shona, cant you do better than that? he would snap, which actually just made me swoon even more.

As Christmas of that second year approached I started emotionally unravelling. It was pretty obvious to anyone paying attention that I had an uncontrollable  and inappropriate  obsession. A colleague of Jamess in the geography department even took me to one side and sympathetically suggested I talk to someone about my feelings.

Instead, in a brave and reckless move, I decided it was time to declare my love to James himself. It took an hour of standing outside his office plucking up the courage, before I could knock and reveal the full intensity of my feelings. I had no idea how he would respond but I didnt care. I just wanted him to know.

What happened next will be forever etched on my mind. He didnt warn me off or kindly advise me on the correct protocol of a teacher-student relationship. Instead, he carefully walked around his desk, wrapped his arms around me and said: I know how you feel. But its probably not a good idea to tell anybody else.

And just like that, the line was crossed. Any sane adult looking in from the outside world would have seen an abuse of power. I just saw a mission accomplished.

It took Shona years to process the emotional toll of the inappropriate interactions her teacher had with her

We kissed in his car a few days later. Sex first happened in the staff room on an old Chesterfield sofa, after everybody else had gone home.

I remember he drove me home afterwards, his left hand on my knee, wedding ring on his finger. When we arrived at my house, my mother invited him in, offered him a glass of wine and then proceeded to ask how my schoolwork was going.

Still, I felt I knew what I was doing. I felt  stupidly  that it was love. I thrived on the heady excitement of having this forbidden liaison with a man on a pedestal of authority. It was the stuff of Mills & Boon, the plot of every teenage girls fantasy.

But in reality it wasnt a proper relationship at all. We never did anything outside college.

Contact between us  something I hoped every day for  would consist of a snatched kiss in a classroom when nobody was looking or a quick squeeze of my bum as I left a lesson  always the last person to go, lingering until the end for any titbits of physical touch he threw my way.

On occasion, James would drive me home and we would have sex on the kitchen rug. We never ventured up to a bedroom for fear of being caught and the sex itself  I now know  was wholly unsatisfactory. It was always over in a seconds and left me wondering what all the fuss was about.

It sounds crazy when I look back on it, but I never used birth control either. The whole thing felt so surreal I moved through the motions of our affair in a total daze. I can see I was entirely out of my depth.

I should have been able to talk to James about what we were doing but I never did. He was on such a pedestal to me that I had no idea how to approach a conversation with him on that level.

I remember not daring to ask him to define what we were doing for fear it might spook him. It almost felt like I was holding my breath and not making any sudden movements in case it scared him away. I understand now that in not talking to me about it, he was probably able to pretend it wasnt really happening at all.

When the summer term neared its end, James drew back  brutally and unceremoniously. I will never forget standing in the quad on the last day of term, watching him walk away, his leather satchel swinging. I was trembling so much it was all I could do not to sink to the ground.

What had I expected? Who knows? If not walking off into the sunset together at least not being discarded like unwanted clothing. Something kinder. I had assumed  stupidly  he felt the same way and I had never been on an equal enough par to ask. I was totally unprepared for how side-swiped this would leave me.

I spent the summer holiday pretending to be alright before heading off to university. It would take me years to process the emotional toll and to understand that measuring every future relationship against an inappropriate teacher/pupil affair is not the best recipe for a successful love life.

With a 14-year-old daughter who will be approaching A-levels in no time, I am more than a little unsettled when I imagine the same thing happening.

I can finally see things for how they were: an emotionally immature teenager and a weak older man who may, or may not, have continued this inappropriate behaviour with other female students.

He is retired now, having enjoyed an illustrious career, climbing the ranks of the education world.

He risked it all. And for what? The sad thing is, Im still not sure I was even worth it.
Princess Charlene of Monaco looked picture perfect as she attended the closing ceremony of the 63rd Monte-Carlo Television Festival in Monaco on Tuesday.

The former Olympic swimmer, 46, stunned in a one-shouldered white ball gown when stepping out at the festival with her husband Prince Albert II, 66.

Her floor-length dress had three diagonal sheer cut-outs with lace between them, and boasted a statement cape sleeve.

She opted for a soft make-up look with a natural base and gently flushed cheeks and lips while her eyes shone with glittery eyeshadow without looking overdone.

The glamorous royal finished the ethereal look with her short blond locks pulled to the side in gentle curls.

Princess Charlene of Monaco looked picture perfect as she attended the closing ceremony of the 63rd Monte-Carlo Television Festival in Monaco on Tuesday

Adding a touch of glitz to her ensemble, the mother-of-two opted for a shimmering pair of gold earrings and a silver bracelet.

Albert and Charlene arrived together looking like they'd stepped straight off a film set as they similarly matched in glamorous outfits.

The prince looked dapper as he arrived in a black and white suit with a black bow tie and well groomed hair, smiling for the cameras as he proudly held onto his dazzling blonde wife.

Albert opened the 63rd festival on Friday, along with several stars led by Morgan Freeman's 'SEAL Team's'' and 'Bridgerton's' Simone Ashley.

Just earlier today, the busy princess and her husband joined four Monegasque tourchbearers at a relay ceremony in Monaco ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, marking the second time in history the Monaco has welcomed the Olympic Flame.

Dressed in white from head to toe in the offical Relais De La Flamme (which means Olympic Torch Relay) uniform, Albert, and Charlene, proudly held up the historic torch, smiling at crowds alongside the other chosen torchbearers.

The former Olympic swimmer, 46, stunned in a one-shouldered white ball gown when stepping out at the festival with her husband Prince Albert II, 66

Her floor-length dress had three diagonal sheer cut-outs with lace between them, and boasted a statement cape sleeve

The royal opted for a soft make-up look with a natural base and gently flushed cheeks and lips while her eyes shone with glittery eyeshadow without looking overdone

The glamorous royal finished the ethereal look with her short blond locks pulled to the side in gentle curls

The couple, who held hands as they arrived, were joined by their twin children Princess Gabriella and Jacques, Hereditary Prince of Monaco for the special event, who watched on as their parents proudly held up the Olympic Flame.

Gabriella and Jacques were also matching, complementing their parents ensembles with all-black outfits, both wearing polo shirts with white stripes and matching shades.

Prince Albert II has strong links with the Olympic Games, as president of the Monegasque Olympic Committee and a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) since 1985.

Both Princess Charlene and Prince Albert have previously participated in the Olympics.

Prince Albert has taken part in five Winter Olympics as part of Monacos bobsleigh team, first carrying the Olympic Flame in 1996 to mark the Atlanta Summer Olympics. While Princess Charlene swam for South Africa in the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Adding a touch of glitz to her ensemble, the mother-of-two opted for a shimmering pair of gold earrings and a silver bracelet

Prince Albert II of Monaco (L), Princess Charlene of Monaco and French actor and director Olivier Marchal (R) pose during the closing ceremony of the 63rd Monte-Carlo Television Festival in Monaco
A stunning Aussie beach has been named the second best in the world - even though many locals have never heard of it.

Stokes Bay, on the north coast of Kangaroo Island in South Australia, is a hidden gem that can be found at the end of a maze of rocks.

Its crystalline water and sheltered rock pools form a quiet paradise welcoming adventurous travellers from both Australia and around the world.

Enjoy Travel, a global travel authority, awarded the beach second place out of 50 for its perfect water and sand, unique location and bountiful wildlife.

Piha Beach in New Zealand - a breathtaking tourist haven in Auckland known for its black sand and famed Lion Rock - took out the top spot.

Stokes Bay has been named the second-best beach in the world, even though many locals have never heard of it

Stokes Bay is on the north coast of Kangaroo Island in South Australia and is a 30-minute flight from Adelaide or a 45-minute ferry from Cape Jervis

Upon arrival at Stokes Bay, visitors wander through a maze-like rock passage before they emerge onto sun-drenched sands and water 'as clear as glass'.

'The short walk to the beach has to be experienced to be believed, and then the beach with its perfectly rolling waves and rock pool,' a recent visitor said.

'Simply divine.'

The rock formations of Stokes Bay provide shelter from the rougher surf surrounding Kangaroo Island and create a safe, shallow pool perfect for snorkelling and swimming.

This also makes it a great spot for families to visit with children.

The rock formations of Stokes Bay provide shelter from the rougher surf surrounding Kangaroo Island

A sunset over Stokes Bay is a sight to behold

What are the top five beaches in the world The panel at Enjoy Travel named the following the best in the world for 2024: 1. Piha Beach, New Zealand 2. Stokes Bay Beach, Australia 3. Moon Bay, Slovenia 4. White Beach, Port Barton, Philippines 5. Laomei Beach, Taiwan Advertisement

The stunning bay was also voted Tourism Australia's Best Beach for 2023.

In addition to being a dream destination for beachgoers, Stokes Bay is home to white-bellied sea eagles and hooded plovers, as well as dolphins.

More adventurous visitors can also spend hours exploring the rugged shoreline and the rocks.

The nearby Rockpool Cafe offers excellent kiosk-style food and fresh fish and is an ideal spot to grab a takeaway picnic.

Visitors to the bay (left) can also explore the undulating roads of Kangaroo Island (right)

Reviewers also described the beach and surrounding Kangaroo Island as a 'perfect' natural setting for photography enthusiasts.

'A magnificent beach, and a great place to take beautiful photos even if the water is too cold to swim in!' one reviewer gushed.

Another who spotted a pod of dolphins only 50 meters offshore lauded Stokes Bay an 'outstanding gem of a beach'.

'Straight to my bucket list,' another wrote.

Kangaroo Island is a 30-minute flight from Adelaide.

There is also a 45-minute ferry departing from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw where you can drive for 80 minutes on sealed roads to Stokes Bay, or take a taxi or shuttle service.
Royal Ascot racegoers partied the night away as boozy revellers spilled out onto the streets after the opening day of the races.

The popular sporting event - considered to be the crown jewel in the racing calendar - began on Tuesday and was attended by King Charles, Camilla and other members of the Royal Family.

Earlier in the day, glamorous guests had dressed themselves up to the nines to watch the horse-racing at the Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire.

But by the end of the day, ties had been loosened, jackets had been removed and the drunken antics were in full flow on the Ascot high street.

Dejected men dressed in suits were seen lying passed out on the floor, while a man and a woman were seen picking up wads of cash off the floor that one appeared to have dropped.

As the Ascot debauchery continued into sunset, three police officers were needed to wrestle one weary racegoer to the ground.

Other partygoers were seen posing with jugs of Pimm's and sticking their thumbs up for the camera - while one poor man was left hanging by a military policemen after trying to fist bump him.

Police wrestle a man as drinks spilled out in to the streets after the opening day of the Ascot races

A man and a woman were seen picking up wads of cash off the floor that one appeared to have dropped

It all got too much for one punter who was seen lying down on the floor in his suit and tie

A Royal Ascot drinker enjoys a jug of Pimm's after the opening day of the races on Tuesday

Royal Ascot, a five-day flat horse racing event held annually at Ascot race course in Berkshire, is a major event in the social calendar.

On the Royal Ascot website, the organisers have outlined their behavioural code as a warning to new visitors.

It reads: 'Drunkenness, rowdy behaviour or intimidating other Members, their guests and staff will not be tolerated.'

The they go on to state that they reserve the right to remove people who are engaging in 'behaviour which may disrupt or impair the experiences of other attendees'.

They also 'do not allow any items relating to stag and hen parties'.

Before the chaos spilled over into the streets members of the Royal Family were photographed enjoying a more civilised day out.

The event is popular with many royals, notably, the late Queen Elizabeth II famously loved the race - so much so, after she died, some thought The Firm's connection with it may end.

But King Charles has continued to attend the event, and was pictured there today, appearing extremely happy at times, with photographs showing the monarch smiling, laughing, and chatting with other racegoers.

Among the other royal attendees were Princess Anne and her daughter Zara Tindall, 43, - who are both famous for their love of horses - as well as Zara's husband Mike Tindall, and her brother Peter Phillips.

Police detain a man after the boozy Ascot celebrations spilled out onto the streets

Ascot racegoers were dressed up to the nines for the event before heading into Berkshire for drinks

A punter continues on with his night with a Royal Ascot flag tucked into his suit front pocket

An Ascot punter is left hanging by a military policeman after going in for a fist bump

Royal Ascot, a five-day flat horse racing event held annually at Ascot race course in Berkshire, is a major event in the social calendar

Queen Camilla accompanied the King, with the royal couple arriving together in a carriage. Princess Eugenie was also snapped at the event.

Poignantly, Lady Gabriella attended Ascot today, making it her first official public appearance since the death of her husband.

Her late husband, Thomas Kingston died by suicide on February 25th at the age of 45 at his parents' home in the Cotswolds.

Lady Gabriella, who is the daughter of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, arrived at the event in a carriage she shared with Princess Anne and Peter Phillips.

She was seen being comforted by a number of royals, including Zara Tindall, who was snapped hugging the grieving Gabriella.

The King's appearance at Ascot today followed Trooping the Colour at the weekend.

However, despite his busy schedule, and the fact he is undergoing treatment for cancer, the monarch seemed buoyant and in good spirits during the day.

The 75-year-old was dressed in traditional grey morning suit.

King Charles and Queen Camilla are snapped waving at crowds as they arrive at Royal Ascot on Tuesday

Princess Anne, who famously loves everything horse-related, looked exasperated while watching the action at Ascot

Lady Gabriella Kingston (pictured) makes her first official public appearance since the tragic death of her husband in February

Zara Tindall (pictured, left) looks sophisticated and chic as she attends Royal Ascot in a yellow frock with her husband Mike Tindall (pictured, right)

Despite his recent hectic schedule, and undergoing treatment for cancer, King Charles (pictured) appeared to be in highs spirits today

Princess Eugenie was among numerous members of the Royal Family who attended the first day of Ascot today

Princess Eugenie, who looked chic in a pale green frock and cream hat, was snapped while chatting with another guest

Lady Gabriella Kingston (pictured, right) arrives at the event in a carriage, accompanied by Princess Anne (pictured, left)

It's no surprise that Princess Anne (pictured) was among the royals at Ascot today - she has a famous fascination with horses

Today marks the first day of the famous equestrian event, which is a favourite among members of The Firm (pictured: Zara Tindall)

Zara Tindall is pictured embracing Lady Gabriella Kingston as they both attend day one of Royal Ascot in Berkshire

As well as attending Royal Ascot today, Lady Gabriella Windsor (pictured) was at Trooping the Colour last Saturday

The king (pictured) looked smart in a grey blazer, which he paired with a yellow waistcoat, white shirt, and blue tie

Mike Tindall, pictured looking dapper in a smart suit and top hat, is thought to be among the most popular royals

Racing manager John Warren (pictured, left) and Princess Anne's son Peter Phillips (pictured, right) arrive at the event in a carriage

King Charles' niece Zara Tindall (pictured) was among the royals at Ascot today, attending with her husband Mike Tindall (pictured)

SAY CHEESE! Zara and Mike Tindall (pictured) were seen posing for a selfie with another Ascot attendee

Along with a yellow waistcoat, the King donned a light blue tie, a blue pocket square and a black top hat. He carried a large black umbrella with him.

The Queen also looked stylish, wearing a royal blue coat dress and a coordinating hat.

She styled her hair in her signature bouncy blow-dry and accessorised with a pair of pearl earrings

Meanwhile, Zara Tindall looked chic and sophisticated in a patterned yellow ensemble.

She put her best fashion foot forward in a stylish buttermilk-coloured button-up dress that featured a pointy collar and puffy blouse sleeves.

The chic garment had a belt that cinched in Zara's waist, showing off her slender frame.

43-year-old Gabriella was pictured with her arm around Mike Tindall's shoulders, as he wrapped a comforting arm around her waist

Despite receiving treatment for cancer, King Charles (pictured) still has a busy schedule. His Ascot appearance followed his attendance at Trooping the Colour on Saturday

King Charles (pictured, left) and Queen Camilla (pictured, right) are seen arriving at Royal Ascot in a carriage

The royal couple were seen waving at the assembled crowds as their carriage arrived at the event (pictured L-R: King Charles; Queen Camilla)

Zara, known to share her mother's love of equestrian sports, was all smiles as she made her way around the Royal Enclosure - which is invitation only - at the racecourse in Berkshire today.

The mother-of-three looked every inch a royal in a rattan-style hat, which she perched on the edge of her head and wore her glossy blonde tresses in an elegant low bun.

Her husband Mike Tindall looked dapper, attending the races in a sleek black top hat and a three-piece suit featuring a white crisp shirt, floral embroidered tie, grey waistcoat and a smart blazer.

The pair looked in high spirits and smiled as they took selfies with other revellers at the racecourse today.

King Charles has been described as a 'workaholic' according to some reports, which say the monarch has not wanted to slow down, despite his current illness

Camilla has been praised for her style since becoming queen. She often wears vibrant colours and outfits with a similar flattering silhouette

Another image of King Charles again showed the royal appearing to have a good time at the event, as he was snapped laughing

It has been a busy few days for the king (pictured), with Trooping the Colour on Saturday, and Royal Ascot this week

At one point, Queen Camilla (pictured) appeared to gasp as she watched the Queen Anne Stakes (which was won by Charyn ridden by Silvestre De Sousa, not pictured)

WATCHING THE ACTION: King Charles and Queen Camilla appear deep in concentration as they watch the action from the stands

They even shared an awkward moment with Queen Camilla, as her wide-brimmed headpiece got in the way of the couple trying to greet her with a kiss.

And Princess Eugenie joined the other well-dressed royals, looking stylish in a pale green frock and cream hat.

Writing jointly in the official programme, Charles and Camilla said: 'It gave us immense pleasure and joy to witness Desert Hero's victory in the King George V Stakes last year, particularly as he was bred by Her late Majesty.

'We wish all the participants this week the very best of luck in seeking that unique thrill of a Royal Ascot winner.

'We also hope that those here at the racecourse and watching from home will enjoy five days of the finest racing that this sport has to offer.'
The Labour's candidate standing against Nigel Farage in Clacton has been dubbed Britain's new most stylish politician.

Jovan Owusu-Nepaul, who is in his twenties and studied politics, philosophy and economics at Goldsmiths University before gaining his masters in history at Cambridge University, is the Reform UK leader's very dapper competition in Clacton.

Channelling 1970s hipster style crossed with country gentleman in tweeds and check shirts, the wannabe MP has been turning heads on the campaign trail.

Jovan has been snapped looking dashing while door-knocking, handing out leaflets and greeting members of his constituency wearing a succession of excellently put-together ensembles.

Having joined the Labour party at the age of 17, Jovan, who graduated from his Masters last year, is now going head-to-head with the Reform UK leader to become MP on July 4.

Farage is also known for his quirky outfits, so it appears it may be battle of the catwalk.

Labour's candidate Jovan Owusu-Nepaul (pictured) who is standing against Nigel Farage in Clacton is Britain's new most stylish politician

Jovan, who studied politics, philosophy and economics at Goldsmiths University in London before gaining his masters in history at Cambridge University , is the Reform UK candidate's very dapper competition in Clacton

One snap of Owusu-Nepaul on the campaign trial looks more like a shot from a high end fashion campaign than a British politician canvassing.

Perfectly tailored khaki trousers and a nude trench coat, accentuated by a bold striped jumper with a clashing shift and tie is one look.

Another, Owusu-Nepaul ate chips on the beach while sporting a patriotic white, blue and red jumper.

Speaking to FEMAIL, celebrity stylist Rochelle White said the candidate is 'very Gen Z'.

'Jovan Owusu-Nepaul has such an unusual style when it comes to politicians but so much when it comes to Gen Z.

'It represents his personality, but also taps into the love for nostalgia among that age group. He is standing out for his style, but also relatability.

'He'll know that people are watching and so he is putting his best foot forward. I feel that tapping into the old school look on some subconscious level relates to the older demographic, but is also seen as being style conscious to the young demographic.

'In regards to Nigel, I feel that he has gone for a more muted version of himself. He is one of those people that wants to be relatable to who he is talking to, but be taken more seriously.

'So, the shift in style could be because of that. He will always have a pop of colour, but the more toned down version I feel is taking a leaf out of other leaders who have been successful. Yet, he still owns a bit of his own style and trademark'.

Though they're up against one another politically, the two men seem to be remaining cordial on the campaign trail.

Channelling 1970s hipster style crossed with country gentleman in tweeds and check shirts, the wannabe MP has been turning heads on the campaign trail

Having joined the Labour party at the age of 17, Jovan is now going head-to-head with the Reform UK leader to become MP on July 4

When they ran into each other in Clacton's high street, Jovan greeted Farage and said there was 'more in common than divides us'. Farage agreed, adding: 'We disagree on the vision  and that's OK.'

The pair also seem to be on the same page when it comes to their wardrobes as a spokesperson for Farage said Jovan's style was 'a breath of fresh air.'

'Jovan certainly has his own style, and best of British to him.

'It's a breath of fresh air amongst the grey suits of the safe and aesthetically challenged ranks of most Westminster wannabes. Nigel's style speaks for itself,' a spokesperson for Farage said.

While both men channel a traditional Englishman aesthetic, Farage has recently toned town his style and tends to stick to navy suits, white shirts and eye-catching ties and socks.

Farage was once known for his quirky tweed jackets and colourful trousers look which he made his own.

Jovan went to school in Southampton, attending the Warwash Maritime School at Solent University, which specialises in training for those considering working in the maritime industry.

Farage was once known for his quirky tweed jackets and colourful trousers look which he made his own

While both men channel a traditional Englishman aesthetic, Farage has recently toned town his style and tends to stick to navy suits, white shirts and eye-catching ties and socks

He went on to study politics, philosophy and economics at Goldsmiths University in London, graduating with a 2:1 and a distinction in his dissertation, which was a comparative analysis of the political economy of the Labour Party under Jeremy Corbyn, against the party under the leadership of Tony Blair.

He then served as Chair of the Lewisham Deptford Constituency Labour Party. He was the first British African/Indo Caribbean Chair in the CLP's history - an area with the second highest proportion of African/African Caribbean people in the UK and was one of the youngest Labour Party Chairs in the UK.

He grew up watching his mother work long hours in the NHS as a midwife. He was affected by the Tories' closure of Sure Start centres which offered help and advice on child and family health, parenting, money, training and employment.

Though they're up against one another politically, the two men seem to be remaining cordial on the campaign trail

Jovan has been snapped looking dashing while door-knocking, handing out leaflets and greeting members of his constituency wearing a succession of excellently put-together ensembles

In 2021, Jovan wrote an article for The Independent calling on the government to tackle the growing mental health epidemic which was made worse by Covid lockdowns.

He wrote: 'Our prospects appear bleaker than those our parents once enjoyed. We don't get grants for university, we can't save for a house deposit in an inflated housing market, and paying back our student loans now feels like an incomprehensible task due to high rents and fewer job opportunities.

'Twentysomethings have helped keep the country running and have compromised as much as anyone else during the pandemic, and yet our futures are overlooked and remain uncertain. I urge the government to focus on the young this decade, or else fail an entire generation.'

The latest Survation polling by Best for Britain shows Farage's party in the lead with 30.73 percent of the forecast votes, trailed by the Tories at 29.44 percent and Labour with 27.59 percent.
Dame Joan Collins has showed off her ageless beauty in a new campaign for First Choice holidays.

The actress, 91, exuded sophistication in the brightly coloured ensemble as she declared herself the 'queen of cancellations' and advised Brits to say 'no' to travel plans if they don't feel up to them.

In her typical glam fashion, the Golden Globe award winner sipped on Rose champagne in a hilarious campaign video for holiday company First Choice.

Draped in a fuchsia feather boa, Dame Joan looked younger than her years in a stunning bodycon gown, while her brunette locks were styled in her signature curls.

With five ex-husbands, Joan claimed to know a thing or two about changing your mind, which she is urging the younger generation to embrace when it comes to getting out of unwanted travel plans.

Dame Joan Collins, 91, looked incredible as she posed up a storm in a glamorous pink suit for a new campaign

The actress displayed her signature sass in the humorous clip which saw her cursing to a holiday company over the phone while trying to cancel a trip before dishing out some advice to youngsters.

The campaign comes after research revealed that 80 percent of young people admit to being people-pleasers to avoid conflict, and 75 percent confess to being too scared to say 'no' to plans for fear of upsetting friends, family or partners.

In the clip Dame Joan says: 'Have you heard of cancel culture? I am the queen of cancellations. I have never met a plan I couldn't cancel.

'Your generation is too scared to say no. You are happy to share every opinion you have on social media but frightened to bail on Amy's 'hen do from hell'?'

'There are some things in life called standards. Say, you booked a romantic break but then had a bad breakup? Or maybe you need a week to just lie horizontally, rather than trudging around Crete with your best friend's housemate?'

'The problem is most companies don't take no for an answer, and no one wants to go full Karen just to cancel a holiday.'

The Dame went onto say that First Choice Flex is a new bookable extra that lets you cancel your trip and receive the cost of your holiday back.

The actress, 91, exuded sophistication in the brightly coloured ensemble as she declared herself the 'queen of cancellations' and advised Brits to say 'no' to travel plans if they don't feel up to them

In her typical glam fashion, the Golden Globe award winner sipped on Rose champagne in a hilarious campaign video for holiday company First Choice

She added: 'The people here at First Choice have kindly paid my day rate to dole out some tough love. It's not a warning, more of a wake-up'.

It comes after Dame Joan was the epitome of chic as she joined the cast of Fawlty Towers The Play at London's Apollo Theatre on Wednesday.

The actress exuded glamour as she stepped out in a beige two-piece suit which she layered over an elegant cream blouse. She added an inch to her frame as she slipped into a pair of cream open-toe sandals.

After watching the iconic play, she went back stage to meet and greet each of the 18 cast members.

Meanwhile in April the actress cut a very glamorous figure as she stepped out to the Variety Club Showbusiness Awards with her husband Percy Gibson at The Londoner Hotel in the UK capital.

The actress, who honoured with the Variety Club Silver Heart Award 2024 for Outstanding Contribution to Global Film and Television at the bash, donned a black dress which reached almost down too the ground and featured semi-sheer puff sleeves.

The star completed her look by opting for a silver beaded statement costume necklace as she posed with her arm around her beloved husband Percy, 59.

The actress, exuded glamour as she stepped out in a beige two-piece suit which she layered over an elegant cream blouse (pictured with the cast of Fawlty Towers)

After watching the iconic play, she went back stage to meet and greet each of the 18 cast members

Dame Joan was the epitome of chic as she joined the cast the nostalgic Fawlty Towers The Play at The Apollo Theatre

Producer and actor Percy looked dapper in a black dinner suit which he teamed with a matching bow tie and a white shirt.

She wore a pair of black heels to add a few inches to her stature and carried a glitzy purse adored with shimmering silver sequins.

Percy, who is 31 years Joan's junior, is Joan's fifth husband, with the pair tying the knot at London's Claridge's in February 2002.

The American Horror Story star was previously married to Maxwell Reed, Anthony Newley, Ron Kass and Peter Holm.

Originally from Peru, Percy is a noted Hollywood producer, known primarily for producing Who Wants to be a Millionaire.

The pair hit it off right away and when a last minute change of plans saved Percy from being near the World Trade Center on 9/11, they decided to marry.

Gushing about her husband, Joan previously told Saga magazine: 'He takes care of everything. He takes care of my children and all our finances. He's the love of my life. It's a great marriage, a great relationship.'
Queen Letizia looked effortlessly elegant in blue as she attended the 10th anniversary of King Felipe's proclamation today.

The European royal, 51, opted for satin midi dress for today's celebration at the Royal Palace in Madrid.

The stylish gown featured a chic square neckline, asymmetric sleeve and A-Line skirt.

The mother-of-two offset her stylish ensemble with minimal jewellery, opting for a pair of dangling blue-and-amber crystal earrings.

Letizia also opted for a glamorous warm brown smokey eye and nude lipstick for her husband's special day.

Pictured: King Felipe and Queen Letizia were joined by their two daughters to mark the anniversary of the royals' proclamation today

Felipe and Letizia were also joined at the Palace by their daughters Princess Leonor, 18, and Princess Sofia, 17.

The future Queen looked radiant in a red suit jacket and trousers and matching top.

Leonor - who is currently completing her military training at Zaragoza Military Academy in Northern Spain - wore her light brown hair down and in a centre parting for the occasion.

Meanwhile, Sofa looked equally elegant in a black dress with pink tie-dye ruching on the front.

The Princess - who is currently a student at UWC Atlantic college in Wales - also wore her long brown hair down and finished off her look with a rosy lipstick.

King Felipe of Spain, who was dapper in a navy suit, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his ascension to the throne today.

After a ceremony inside the Palace, the family-of-four then appeared on the balcony to wave to crowds of royal fans.

Felipe's father Juan Carlos famously abdicated in 2014 following a series of scandals and affair rumours. Two years before, the ex-monarch's popularity nosedived when he was pictured posing next to a dead elephant in Botswana while Spain was struggling with the financial crisis.

After a ceremony inside the Palace, the family-of-four then appeared on the balcony to wave to crowds of royal fans (pictured)

Felipe's father Juan Carlos famously abdicated in 2014 following a series of scandals and affair rumours. Pictured: Spain's Royal Family at The Royal Palace today

Letizia offset her stylish ensemble with minimal jewellery, opting for a pair of dangling blue-and-amber crystal earrings

Pictured: King Felipe, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia seen waving to royal fans

In more recent months, Queen Letizia herself has been faced with unproven accusations of an affair with her ex-brother-in-law Jaime del Burgo.

Last month, Spanish journalist Jaime Penafiel, 91, launched a fresh attack on the European Queen with his new book 'Letizia's Silences'.

Following his first best-selling book 'Letizia & I' (which alleged that Letizia had an affair with her ex brother-in-law Jamie del Burgo), the veteran royal reporter claims in his latest work that Felipe was 'aware' of his wife's alleged infidelity 'in real time'.

The author alleges that bodyguards joined Queen Letizia on a trip she took to New York in 2011 with her 'lover' Jaime del Burgo, whom she had dated before meeting Felipe.

The author wrote: 'That day [in New York], she was accompanied by her faithful escorts, who, without a doubt, any, they would pass a report to the Ministry of the Interior or [the Palace of] Zarzuela.'

Following this, Jaime claims that Felipe has been left 'crushed and destroyed' by his wife's alleged cheating.

The royal reporter - who worked for Hola! magazine for 20 years - claims that Felipe has been 'plunged into hell' by his wife's supposed 'betrayal' and 'wants to get out'.

Elsewhere in the book, Jamie labels Queen Letizia 'cold, emotionally immature and passive aggressive' and makes unsubstantiated claims she is 'hated' by King Felipe's family.

Jaime Penafiel, 91, was sacked by the Spanish newspaper El Mundo after 20 years earlier this year following the publication of first book on the Queen called 'Letizia & I'.
Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall put on an affectionate display as they attended Royal Ascot today with Prince William and his in-laws.

The Royal Family was out in full force today to attend the second day of the races in Berkshire.

Zara Tindall, 43, who was elegant in a white floral dress, was pictured warmly greeting her cousin Princess Beatrice this afternoon.

Princess Anne's daughter was spotted giving Beatrice a kiss on the cheek and put an arm around the royal mother-of-one, who was dressed in a pink floral dress and matching fascinator.

What's more, Zara also gave Beatrice's mother an equally warm greeting and was seen placing a hand on the Duchess of York's shoulder.

Pictured: Zara Tindall seen warmly hugging her cousin Princess Beatrice at Royal Ascot in Berkshire

Sarah Ferguson, 64, cut a sophisticated figure in a white figure-hugging dress and black hat with bow detail.

After this sweet exchange, Zara's husband Mike was pictured giving Sarah a warm hug during the drinks reception.

Zara was later seen speaking with Prince William and his mother-in-law Carole Middleton.

At one point in the conversation, Zara was pictured affectionately adjusting her cousin's jacket, which he had paired with a top hat.

Princess Eugenie was also seen deep in conversation with Carole Middleton before the races got underway.

The royal opted for a white knitted midi dress and pink fascinator for the occasion while mother-of-three Carole was elegant in a blue Self-Portrait gown.

The Middletons' outing comes after their daughter Kate, 42, who has been receiving chemotherapy for an undisclosed form of cancer since February, made a spectacular return to public life during Trooping the Colour on Saturday.

Carole and Michael Middleton's last public appearance was at Kate's annual Royal Carols: Together at Christmas at Westminster Abbey in London in December.

At one point in their conversation, Zara Tindall reached over to adjust her cousin Prince William's jacket

Princess Eugenie was also seen deep in conversation with Carole Middleton before the races got underway (pictured)

Zara's husband Mike Tindall was pictured giving Sarah Ferguson a warm hug during the drinks reception

Zara also gave Beatrice's mother an equally warm greeting and was seen placing a hand on the Duchess of York 's shoulder

Pictured: Zara Tindall seen putting an arm around Princess Beatrice and Michael Middleton at Ascot

Pictured: Zara Tindall seen hugging her cousin Princess Eugenie's husband Jack Brooksbank at Ascot today

Princess Anne's daughter Zara Tindall seen hugging Jack Brooksbank, who married into the Royal Famly back in 2018

Princess Anne's daughter Zara Tindall seen putting a hand on Prince Edward's arm at the Ascot drinks reception

Princess Beatrice spotted chatting to Zara Tindall ahead of this afternoon's race meet at Ascot

Prince William, attending the society meet without the Princess of Wales, is spotted in the crowds at the Ascot Racecourse this afternoon

Dressed in all their finery, the beaming couple looked in great spirits as they arrived side-by-side for the prestigious event at the Berkshire racecourse

The Duchess of York was seen chatting to her daughter Princess Beatrice at the event

Queen Camilla, elegant in teal, led the royal carriage procession with the Prince of Wales

Three months later, Kate announced her cancer diagnosis to the world.

Carole, 69, sporting a 350 light blue frock from Self-Portrait for today's outing, has reportedly been supporting her daughter through her cancer treatment at her home in Windsor.

Her floral dress appeared reminiscent of Kate's 1,275 blue lace creation by Elie Saab, which she first wore to Royal Ascot in 2019. It also featured a dainty bow and pleated detailing.

Proving to be a queen of coordination, Carole teamed her long-sleeved summer dress with a matching light blue fascinator, featuring a statement flower, and a pair of dark blue heels.

With a stylish clutch bag in hand, she finished off her stunning look with a smattering of glamorous makeup and a pair of gold earrings.

Royal Ascot, the jewel in the crown of the UK racing calendar, started yesterday with the Queen Anne Stakes and will run until Saturday.

Standards have not slipped from yesterday's display of glamorous fashion, with revellers arriving at the Berkshire racecourse this morning dressed to the nines.
King Charles has 'always had a great respect for Kate Middleton' and would 'compare notes' with the Princess of Wales on the London Clinic's food during their 'affectionate' meetings about their respective cancer treatments, a royal expert has claimed.

The Princess of Wales, 42, and King Charles, 75, both received treatment at the London Clinic in Harley Street earlier this year.

Appearing in the Channel 5 documentary Kate: A Queen for the Future, which airs at 9:20pm on Saturday, the Daily Mail's editor-at-large Richard Kay discussed Charles and Kate's meetings during their time as patients in the London hospital.

Richard explained: 'The King actually made a point of going to see Kate and there's this rather touching story of [Charles] in his dressing gown padding down to his daughter-in-law's floor.

'They compared notes about the rather good hospital food, how their treatment was going. It was a moment of great affection.'

Pictured: The Princess of Wales with King Charles and Princess Charlotte on the Buckingham Palace balcony for Trooping the Colour

The London Clinic's head chef Paul O'Brien leads a team which provides customised meals for patients that also source ingredients from Home Counties farms.

Elsewhere in the documentary, The Telegraph's royal correspondent India McTaggart said King Charles has always valued the Princess of Wales.

She explained: 'Charles always had a lot of respect for Catherine and he said that in the wedding toast that he made.

'He said they were very lucky to have her and it remains true to this day.'

At the time, Kates former primary school headmaster Dr Robert Acheson, who is also a friend of the Middleton family, told the Daily Mail about the wedding speeches.

He said: William spoke very well but it was Charles who really gave high praise to his daughter-in-law. He said they were really lucky to have a daughter like her.



Susie Lea, a friend of the Middleton family, went on to describe some of the jokes Charles made during his toast.

She added: 'The Prince of Wales made a few jokes about his bald patch and his sons bald patch, saying it must be hereditary.

King Charles has 'always had great respect' for Kate Middleton, a royal expert has claimed. The pair pictured at the James Bond: No Time to Die premiere in 2021

The Princess of Wales, 42, and King Charles, 75, both received treatment at the London Clinic (pictured) in Harley Street earlier this year

'He was stood slightly up on a small stand so he was looking down on William to his left. William smiled, he was amused. Kate looked amused as well.'

Later in the documentary, royal expert Robert Jobson said that Kate Middleton plays a crucial role in King Charles' relationship with three grandchildren.

The expert said: 'Catherine is very important in the relationship between Charlotte, George and Louis and the King.

'When William and the King aren't necessarily on the best of terms, as sometimes fathers and sons are, it's always Catherine who makes sure that the King, if he wants to see his grandchildren, sees his grandchildren.'

Royal expert Afua Hagan commented also on how Kate and William are trying to give Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, seven, as 'normal' an upbringing as possible.

Afua said: 'She has this middle-class, non-royal upbringing and she wants to bring a bit of that into the children's lives as much as she can.'

Royal expert Robert Jobson said that Kate Middleton plays a crucial role in King Charles' relationship with three grandchildren. Prince William pictured with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis in June 2023

King Charles (pictured with grandson Prince Louis) is reportedly spending an increasing amount of time with his grandchildren in Windsor

Royal expert Robert Jobson also claimed that the Princess of Wales has also made it clear that her children will always be her first priority.

He added: 'What you've got to admire about Catherine is the ability to be strong enough and say, "no, I can't do everything."'

'I think that's something the late Queen didn't do very well at the beginning of her reign. She wanted to live up to her father's image of what a monarch was. As a result, her children didn't quite get the same attention as Kate and William give their children.'

In November 2023, the Mail on Sunday reported that King Charles had been spending an increasing amount of time in Windsor to see his grandchildren.

A source said: 'Charles wants to spend more time with his grandchildren. There's so much love there.

'Before, they were miles away from the Waleses but geographically they are now much closer so he can spend more time with them, and he's very glad [of it].'

Kate: A Queen for the Future airs on Channel 5 on 22nd June at 9:20pm.
Zara Tindall was snapped sharing a sweet moments of affection with Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie today, greeting her cousins with a kiss as they met up while attending Royal Ascot.

Prince William and his in-laws, the Middleton family, also shared a peck on the cheek with Zara during their day out at the Berkshire racecourse.

Zara, 43, was dressed for the occasion, wearing an elegant white floral dress which she paired with a cream trilby hat and delicate cream earrings.

She completed the ensemble with a natural make-up look, and sophisticated up do, with her blonde locks styled into a chic low bun at the nape of her neck.

Photographs of Zara, who is the daughter of Princess Anne, show her warmly greeting mother-of-one Princess Beatrice, placing an arm around her shoulders, and planting a kiss on her cheek.

Zara then moved on to Sarah Ferguson, Beatrice's mother, (left) who she met with an equally warm greeting

Zara Tindall (right) embraced her cousin, Princess Beatrice (left), planting a kiss on her cheek as they met at Royal Ascot in Berkshire

After greeting her cousin, Zara also gave her warm greetings to Beatrice's husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi (pictured hugging Zara)

Next, she extended an equally warm greeting to Beatrice's mother, Sarah Ferguson, placing a hand on the Duchess of York's shoulder.

Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Beatrice's husband, also received a warm greeting from mother-of-three Zara.

Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, 60, was the next to receive a kiss from Zara, who pulled him in with one arm to show her affectionate nature.

The tactile royal was later pictured with her arm around the Duke as they conversed during a drink reception at Ascot.

During the reception, Zara's husband Mike showed he is just as warm as his wife, giving Sarah, the Duchess of York a warm hug.

Meanwhile, Queen Camilla, who was sporting a chic turquoise ensemble, wrapped her arms around Zara, showing affection for her niece.

Sociable Zara was also snapped speaking with Prince William and his mother-in-law Carole Middleton.

The royal wrapped her arm fondly around her cousin William, learning in to give him her customary peck on the cheek.

Zara wrapped her arm fondly around her cousin, William's (left), learning round to give him a kiss on the cheek

Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, was next a kiss from Zara who pulled him in with one arm to show her affectionate nature

At one point in their conversation, Zara Tindall reached over to adjust her cousin Prince William's jacket

Pictured: Zara Tindall seen hugging her cousin Princess Eugenie's husband Jack Brooksbank at Ascot today

Pictured: Zara seen warmly hugging her cousin Princess Beatrice

Zara and Queen Camilla (pictured right) exchanged hugs and kisses as they met each other at the races

During their conversation, Zara was seen affectionately adjusting William's jacket, which he had paired with a top hat.

The Middletons' outing comes after their daughter Kate, 42 - who has been receiving chemotherapy for an undisclosed form of cancer since February - made a spectacular return to public life during Trooping the Colour on Saturday.

Carole and Michael Middleton's last public appearance was at Kate's annual festive concert, Together at Christmas at Westminster Abbey in London last December.

Prince William, who led the royal carriage procession alongside Queen Camilla in the absence of his father on day two of the society event, spent time chatting to his mother and father-in-law before the racing started.

In spite of the King and Princess of Wales being absent from today's event, there was a strong turnout of royals, with the Windsors - and the Middletons - putting on a united front.

Royal Ascot, the jewel in the crown of the UK racing calendar, started yesterday with the Queen Anne Stakes and will run until Saturday.
Hundreds are debating whether it's 'unAustralian' to mow your side of the lawn on the median strip and not your neighbour's.

A passerby shared a snap of their local strip on Reddit where half the lawn was freshly cut and a small section - the next-door neighbour's portion - was not.

He dubbed the act 'unAustralian' - and while many agreed, others said it perfectly illustrated modern life Down Under.

Several argued it was not a homeowner's responsibility to mow the lawn in front of an adjacent property.

Others said it was the height of rudeness to only cut your own lawn and leave the rest.

Hundreds are debating whether it's 'unAustralian' to mow your side of the lawn on the median strip and not your neighbour's

Many Redditors labelled it 'the most Australian thing they've ever seen'.

'It's a construction site, tradies can do it themselves,' one Redditor observed.

'Bloke already lives next to a building site. Why would he want to mow it too?' another wrote.

'I don't know about unAustralian. I've got some mates with neighbours that have complained when he did mow a section like that,' another agreed.

'Mate, that's peak Aussie right there.'

One more added: 'What's unAustralian? Not mowing the front lawn of the building site next door? F*** that, I'm not doing any favours to the building company.'

'Mow your own f****** lawn,' said another.

Others said they often cut the entire section of lawn.

'There is no blanket rule. If your neighbour is half-decent, do it,' one said.

'I used to do the people's next door. I had never even talked to them before and just thought it was the right thing to do,' another said.

'If I'm mowing an area of lawn, I'll do up to the driveways on each side. It feels passive-aggressive to mow a hard line down wherever the property border is.'

'I will occasionally edge and mow the neighbours council strip area as it gets overgrown and he works long hours. He usually offers to clean it up and I go, "Nah, don't worry." If it was someone that took an interest in lawns, I wouldn't ever do it,' another added.

Many said it was rude to only cut your own lawn and leave the rest

Last month, a mum confessed that she fills her neighbour's bins on garbage collection night when she does not have enough space in her own.

Brooke Bliss said her red bins fill up rapidly because of the diapers and everyday waste that has accumulated from her family of five.

When it's bin night, she discreetly puts her trash in her neighbours' bins, which are placed outside for collection.

'I wait until the dark of night, and I put some bin bags in other neighbours' bins,' she said in a video posted to social media.
Doctors are warning that extreme cravings for all things salty, from pickles to potato chips, could hint at a rare - and deadly - health disorder.

A 15-year-old girl from Toronto was admitted to the hospital after months of suffering unexplainable symptoms, including severe dizzy spells, fatigue, dehydration and insatiable cravings for salty snacks.

It was not until the girls doctor noted her unusually tan complexion and dark spots under her tongue that it became clear her adrenal glands had stopped working, a potentially fatal health crisis.

She was eventually diagnosed with Addisons disease, a one-in-100,000 disorder in which the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones to regulate crucial minerals and hormones in the body, leading to nausea, abdominal pain, weight loss, salt cravings, and dark spots on the skin - hyperpigmentation.

The condition can be managed with hormone replacement therapy, but can lead to death if left untreated.

Addison's disease causes a dip in the hormone that regulates sodium and potassium levels in the body, leaving a person with extreme cravings for salty foods

A 15-year-old patient experiencing extreme cravings for sodium also presented with pigmentation under her tongue, which indicated Addison's disease

Addison's disease upsets the body's delicate balance of hormones, as well as sodium and potassium - two vital minerals that help regulate blood pressure, muscle and kidney function and cell nutrients.

Upon arrival, the Canadian patient's sodium level was about 130 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), despite eating jars of pickles at a time, handfuls of chips and dousing her meals in salt.

Normal sodium levels range from 136 to 145 mmol/L, which is necessary to regulate the amount of water in and around cells and for generating electrical signals between nerves, enabling communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

An estimated 80 percent of Addisons disease patients experience salt cravings because the disease causes them to lose an excess amount of sodium through their urine.

Normal levels of potassium range from 3.5 to 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), but the patient's level was reaching the high point of the range, at 5 mmol/L.

Excessive potassium in the blood disrupts crucial electrical impulses that regulate the heartbeat. This makes the heart prone to abnormal electrical activity that raises the risk of a life-threatening irregular heart rhythm

At the same time, she had an unquenchable thirst despite drinking three liters of water every day. Increased thirst can be an early sign of Addison's because the disease interferes with how the body regulates water levels.

The internal medicine specialist treating the girl also noted her tan despite it being fall, prompting the doctor to perform a more thorough physical exam, which is when the physician noticed the hyperpigmentation on the bottom of the patient's tongue, a hallmark sign of Addisons.

Patients also experience loss of appetite, reduced blood pressure, dizziness upon standing, unexplained weight loss, muscle aches and nausea.

Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands don't function properly. These multi-layered glands sit atop the kidneys and each layer produces a different crucial hormone.

The topmost layers produce aldosterone, a hormone that signals to the kidneys to hold onto sodium while signaling the release of potassium via urine.

When the adrenal glands do not produce enough aldosterone, the sodium that enters the body via salty snacks leaves it just as quickly in the form of urine, leaving a person dehydrated, extremely dizzy, thirsty and craving even more sodium.

The second layer produces cortisol, commonly referred to as the stress hormone. It helps regulate blood sugar, blood pressure and the helps the body deal with stress. Not enough can cause nausea, abdominal pain, weight loss and hyperpigmentation.

Addisons disease also affects the third layer, which normally produces DHEA and androgenic steroids, precursor hormones that are converted in the ovaries into female hormones and in the testes into male hormones.

Addison's disease can be deadly if left undetected or untreated, but it can be managed with hormone replacement therapy to normalize aldosterone and cortisol levels.

Without treatment, symptoms can progress to dangerous electrolyte imbalances, including a spike in potassium levels and eventually organ failure.

The condition usually arises from an autoimmune disorder, which occurs when the body turns its own immune system against itself. With Addison's specifically, the body attacks the outer portion of its own adrenal glands.

In developed countries, autoimmune disease causes eight to nine of every 10 cases of Addisons disease.

Tuberculosis is the most common cause of Addison's disease worldwide, but TB is overall rare in the US.

Other less common causes of Addison's disease include a history of infections, particularly HIV and fungal infections, heavy bleeding in the adrenal glands, cancer cells migrating to the adrenal glands from other parts of the body, surgical removal of the adrenal glands and certain genetic mutations.

The condition is rare, affecting roughly one in 100,000 people in US, occurring most frequently among middle-aged females.

Autoimmune diseases in general are more prevalent in women.
As cancer rates soar among young people, experts all over the world are launching major investigations in an attempt to discover what's behind the rise.

But there's another cancer question that is equally puzzling: why do some types of cancer continue to come back?

If five years have passed and there is no sign of cancer, patients are usually considered cured - as few see their disease return.

But with some types of breast cancer, as many as a quarter of women will be diagnosed with the disease again, sometimes decades in the future.

Now, medical experts across the globe are hunting for the reasons why.

Dr Francisco Contreras, director and president of Oasis of Hope Hospital in Mexico, told DailyMail.com: 'The thorn on the side of oncology is the recurrence of cancer after successful treatment.

'This problem varies widely depending on types of cancer and stage, how aggressive the malignancy is, and the type of therapy given.'

On average, breast cancer recurs anywhere from three to 25 per cent of the time. Experts believe young, obese women are most at risk, as well as those with more aggressive types

U.S. data suggests deaths from breast cancer, the most common form of the disease in women, have steadily decreased over time thanks to a slew of new treatments like hormone therapies and drugs that help the immune system kill cancer cells.

However, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation estimates diagnoses in women under 50 have increased by two per cent per year for the last five years.

While these advances have proved highly effective at destroying the disease, they haven't stopped it returning many years later.

Dr Contreras noted he recently saw a patient whose breast cancer returned 25 years after she was declared cancer free.

One possible reason, he suggests, for a small number of women, could be the recent move to more minimally invasive techniques for treating the disease - such as surgically removing a lump, rather than the whole breast.

While this can improve quality of life, the disease can recur in remaining tissues.

Another reason could be to do with hormones, namely the female sex hormone estrogen. Roughly 80 per cent of breast cancers are ER positive, meaning cancer cells have receptors that allow estrogen to grow.

It's estimated that in about a quarter of patients with this condition, the cancer cells remain and then wake up years, even decades, later.

Additionally, one in five breast cancers are genetically programmed to create higher levels of the protein HER2, which has been shown to help breast cancer cells grow quicker. These breast cancers are known as HER2 positive.

In ER positive breast cancer, estrogen stimulates the division of cells in the breast, which increases the risk of cancerous mutations in the DNA of the tissue.

While most patients with this type of disease take hormone-suppressing drugs after cancer treatment to account for this risk, some patients stop taking them too soon, and they aren't always effective.

Most patients with HER2 positive breast cancer don't experience recurrence, the HER2 gene is known to mutate and cause cancer to come back and spread further.

There are also other types of breast cancers that have long been known to be particularly aggressive types.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), for example, is known to be fast-growing, with some research suggesting up to 50 per cent of patients experience recurrence, and 37 per cent die within five years of undergoing surgery.

TNBC, which accounts for 10 to 15 per cent of all breast cancers, also do not have estrogen or progesterone receptors or higher levels of HER2, meaning that there are fewer options for targeted treatment.

Inflammatory breast cancer, meanwhile, only accounts for one to five per cent of breast cancers. Unlike most forms of the disease, it doesn't cause a lump and tends to occur in women under 40.

Shannen Doherty (left) was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, going into remission in 2017. However, her cancer recurred in 2020, and she is now in stage four. Olivia Newton-John (right) was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992. She died of the disease nearly three decades later in 2021

Dr Anne Peled, a breast cancer surgeon and co-director at Sutter Health Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco, told DailyMail.com: 'Certain breast cancer types like HER2 positive and triple negative breast cancers are more likely to recur and are also more likely to recur in the first few years after diagnosis.

'While this makes getting through the early years after treatment much more stressful for our patients with these types of breast cancers, we love celebrating with them once theyve gotten through these years cancer free, as their risk of ever getting cancer again after that is very low.'

However, she noted that while ER positive and HER2 negative breast cancers are overall less likely to occur, the disease is more likely to come back decades later.

Women diagnosed with breast cancer before age 35 are also thought to be at an increased risk of recurrence, as they are more likely to have aggressive forms of the disease and be diagnosed at later stages.

Dr Jennifer Son, a breast surgeon at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C., told DailyMail.com: 'The younger a patient is the higher risk of recurrence because they have many more years to live.'

She also noted that, on average, obese women are about 18 per cent more likely to have breast cancer recurrence. This is because fat cells produce estrogen, which helps HER2 positive tumours grow.

It's also thought that in some cases, treatment shrinks tumours so small that they can't be picked up on follow-up scans, so they can regrow.

Breast cancer recurrence can present unique challenges, experts have also warned.

For example, Dr Son noted that 'if patients have a recurrence and have already had a lumpectomy and radiation, they usually cannot get radiation again in the same breast.'

And secondary tumours can come back as more aggressive, Dr Contreras said, as they can become resistant to previously used treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.

Secondary tumours can also spread to other areas like the lymph nodes, requiring more aggressive protocols.

However, thanks to targeted therapies, many women live for several years - and even decades - with later stage breast cancer.

Recent data from the Fred Hutch cancer centre shows 17 per cent of women with breast cancer that has spread to other organs have been living with the disease for more than 10 years.
Mancunians have the highest proportion of avoidable deaths per head of population in England and Wales MailOnline's fascinating map reveals.

Avoidable deaths are those classed by the UK's statistics body as either preventable or treatable among people under the age of 75.

Examples include fatalities from vaccine-preventable disease like whooping cough or cancer cases where a patient might have had different outcome had they received care earlier.

Higher rates are seen as a damming indication of the population's general health as well as a sign that people are struggling to access timely healthcare.

Nationally the rate of such deaths per 100,000 head of population, a figure that allows statisticians to compare results between different areas, was 238 deaths per 100,000 people in England, and 274 deaths per 100,000 in Wales.

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However, some parts of the country had rates far in excess of the national average.

Analysis by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which broke down rates by NHS area, found people in Manchester had the highest figure in the country.

Mancunians recorded 316 avoidable deaths per 100,000 people, the highest rate in both England and Wales and a third above the national average.

In real terms this meant 7,266 people in the Manchester region died from entirely preventable or treatable health conditions.

Other areas in England that recorded the highest rates were South Yorkshire with 299 deaths per 100,000 people and the Black Country in the West Midlands with 292 such deaths. These represented 3,608 and 2,907 actual deaths respectively.

In contrast, people in Surrey recorded the lowest avoidable death rate in England at just 172 deaths per 100,000. This represented 1,559 fatalities.

For Wales, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board in the nation's south-east region recorded the highest avoidable death rate at 315 fatalities per 100,000 people. This represented 1,728 actual avoidable deaths.

This was followed by Swansea Bay University Health Board in the south-west of Wales and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board in south Wales with 307 and 281 deaths per 100,000 people respectively.

Swansea Bay University Health Board recorded 1,728 actual deaths while Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board recorded 1,152.

Powys Teaching Health Board in eastern Wales recorded the lowest avoidable death rate in the nation at just 215 deaths per 100,000 population with 322 actual fatalities.

Wales's overall higher avoidable death rate comes as other data from the Labour-run nation shows one in 20 patients in its NHS are waiting a year for treatment compared to just 0.5 per cent of those in England.

ONS data analysing the different avoidable death rates per region doesn't breakdown the fatalities by cause of death.

But national figures show the number of deaths from alcohol and drugs are on the rise.

Fatalities from substance abuse rose to almost 13,000 in England and in excess of 800 in Wales in 2022.

Both figures represent significant rises compared to pre-pandemic figures, when the tally was 10,511 and 667 respectively.

Experts have blamed excess boozing during the Covid pandemic as well as increasing opiate abuse  including heroin and prescription drugs  for blighting the lives of Britons.

Commenting on the overall data, Veena Raleigh, senior fellow of the thinktank The King's Fund, said it demonstrated the state of accessible healthcare in the UK.

Manchester recorded 316 avoidable deaths per 100,000 people, the highest rate in both England and a third above the national average

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'This is both a damning indictment of the quality of our public health policies and healthcare services, and yet more evidence of the poor and deteriorating state of the population's health,' she said.

'With the NHS waiting list for treatments standing at over seven million, including over 400,000 people waiting for potentially life-saving heart care, and long waits to see a GP, the prognosis for improved population health in the short to medium term looks bleak.'

She also highlighted how many of the areas in England with the higher avoidable death rates were also areas where people were poorer suggested inequality was killing some Brits before their time.

'This heavy burden of avoidable ill health and mortality has devastating consequences for individuals, families, communities and the economy,' she said.

'Preventing ill-health and reducing premature deaths is surely one of the biggest challenges of our age.'

Another concerning aspect of the overall ONS data on avoidable deaths was such fatalities being on the rise among children in England.

Fatalities from substance abuse have continued to soar compared to pre-pandemic with 25.9 deaths per 100,000 in England in 2022, and 30.2 per 100,000 in Wales (stock image)

In 2022, 1,248 such deaths among newborns-to-19-year-olds were recorded, a rate of almost 10 per 100,000 population.

This is a rise from the previous two years when the rate was about 9 and 8 deaths per 100,000 in 2021 and 2020 respectively.

However, analysis suggests that rather than a rise this is in fact the country returning to post-pandemic norms.

Data that breaks down these avoidable deaths by cause shows the number of children who died of injury and disease collapsed during the lockdown years of 2020 and 2021, compared to historical norms.

It is suspected that this is related to lockdown disrupting the usual activities and exposures that resulted in these avoidable deaths.

So, while figures for 2022 are rising compared to the most recent years this to a level on par to that seen pre-pandemic.
A swill of mouthwash is part of many people's daily dental routines.

But while around a quarter of the UK population uses mouthwash, there's growing evidence to suggest it may do more harm than good: a new study has found that antiseptic mouthwash increases levels of bad bacteria in the mouth that may in turn raise the risk of gum disease and certain cancers.

Meanwhile other recent research has linked its use to high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, with its bacteria-killing properties - which is why people use it - thought to be to blame.

The latest study, by the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, Belgium, showed that using Listerine Cool Mint mouthwash every day for three months increased the numbers of two species of bacteria - Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus  which have been linked to gum disease as well as oesophageal and colon cancer.

It's believed that the alcohol in the mouthwash may be to blame, by altering the delicate balance of the mouth's microbiome and wiping out some 'good' bacteria and allowing these 'bad' bacteria to proliferate.

Scientists from the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, Belgium, found that two species of bacteria were more prevalent after three months of daily mouthwash use (stock image)

SHOULD YOU BE USING MOUTHWASH? THE EXPERT VERDICT Want to know your risk? Use our expert guide to help you decide whether to keep using mouthwash To prevent gum disease if you don't have it? NO: 'There's no point risking using a mouthwash for gum disease prevention given the potential negative effects on blood pressure and other health conditions,' says Dr Zoe Brookes, an associate professor of dental education and research at the University of Plymouth. 'Until more research is done, people with good oral health should simply brush their teeth twice daily for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste and clean interdentally with floss,' she adds. To treat gum disease? YES, but only short-term: 'Antiseptic mouthwashes can help reduce the inflammation that causes gum disease,' says Khaled Kasem, chief orthodontist at Impress Clinic in Leeds. 'But only use as a treatment for five days at most  never as a daily use product.' If plagued with cavities? YES: But choose a fluoride mouthwash rather than antiseptic mouthwash to help prevent tooth decay  'and wait for an hour after brushing to use it, or you'll wash away the much higher levels of fluoride in your toothpaste [1,350-1,500ppm fluoride in a good toothpaste compared to just 220ppm in most fluoride mouthwashes]', says Sahil Patel, a dentist and founder of Marylebone Smile in London. For bad breath? NO: 'The most common cause of bad breath is poor dental hygiene which allows food debris to rot between teeth and produce smelly, volatile sulphur compounds,' says Dr Brookes. 'Mouthwash will only mask this temporarily - only mechanical brushing and flossing will really sort it.' Advertisement

While the study looked only at one product, Professor Chris Kenyon, one of the scientists involved, suggested that other alcohol-based mouthwashes would have a similar effect.

He said: 'Most people should not be using it [mouthwash] and if they do, they should use preparations without alcohol and limit use to a couple of days.'

However, Dr Zoe Brookes, an associate professor of dental education and research at the University of Plymouth, urges caution when interpreting the new study.

'We have to be careful not to over-sensationalise the findings of one study which only measured the amounts of certain bacteria in the mouth after using a Listerine mouthwash - not actual rates of cancer.

'Yes, there are some links between Fusobacterium and colon cancer, but large reviews of all the existing studies have not shown a strong link between using alcohol mouthwash and developing oral cancers. The picture isn't clear cut.'

So what is the truth about mouthwash  and should you be using it?

It's well known that antibiotic use can upset the gut microbiome  the community of microbes, including bacteria, that play an important role in our digestive and immune systems  by wiping out the 'good' as well as the 'bad' bacteria.

Now attention is turning to the oral microbiome  the diverse microbes in our mouths  and specifically, how using mouthwash could wipe out some of the 'good' bacteria that help protect our bodies against conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and even cancers.

'Your mouth is filled with hundreds of species of bacteria and while some cause plaque and decay, others are actually very good for health and responsible for quite complex processes in the body,' says Dr Brookes.

'For example, there are bacteria living on the tongue that convert 'nitrates' from the food we eat into 'nitrites',' explains Dr Brookes, who led a study in 2020 on the effects of mouthwash on the oral microbiome.

Nitrites are then turned into nitric oxide in the gut  nitric oxide effectively tells our blood vessels to relax, keeping our blood pressure nice and low.

'A number of studies have now found that the use of mouthwash  particularly brands containing the antiseptic chlorhexidine - can lead to an increase in blood pressure, especially in people who already have raised levels.'

For instance, in 2019 researchers at the University of Puerto Rico found that people who used mouthwash twice a day or more had a greater risk of having high blood pressure compared to less frequent users.

And an earlier study, in 2017, by the same Puerto Rico-based research group found that over-weight people using over-the-counter mouthwash at least twice daily had a 50 per cent increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes over a three-year period compared to non-users.

The researchers put this down to the fact that killing these key bacteria in the mouth reduces the body's ability to make nitric acid, a natural compound that plays a role in regulating insulin - the hormone that keeps blood sugar levels steady. Therefore, the destruction of this beneficial bacteria could lead to unstable blood sugar peaks and encourage the development of diabetes.

And that's not the only potentially harmful side-effect of mouthwash.

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Intensive Care Medicine found that antiseptic mouthwash used by patients who have been hospitalised may increase their risk of death from sepsis - this is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to an infection, leading to organ failure which can be fatal.

Scientists aren't entirely sure what is behind the increased risk but suggest that killing the oral bacteria responsible for nitric acid production stops the body being able to absorb enough of this compound, which plays a key role in healthy circulation - and we know that circulation is one of the body systems that shuts down in sepsis.

But all this must be weighed against the benefits of mouthwash.

Dr Zoe Brookes, an associate professor of dental education and research at the University of Plymouth, urges caution when interpreting the new study

Using Listerine Cool Mint mouthwash every day could increase the level of two bacteria previously linked to esophageal and colorectal cancer, the study has found

'Of course there is also good evidence that when patients use mouthwashes containing the anti-septic chlorhexidine (alongside toothbrushing) they reduce the plaque that causes tooth decay and early gum disease,' says Dr Brookes.

'But it's a double-edged sword, because chlorhexidine is so powerful it kills so many different species of bacteria - including the good ones.

'And by unbalancing our oral microbiome in this way we may indirectly affect not only our heart health, but perhaps increase the risk of succumbing other problems such as sepsis and also contribute to the wider problem of antibiotic resistance.'

So should we ditch mouthwash? 'Not necessarily,' says Dr Brookes.

'There is concern but on the other hand, we also have a huge amount of growing evidence that gum disease itself is associated with uncontrolled diabetes and cardiovascular disease, so keeping our teeth and gums healthy is more important than ever - especially when so many people can't get to see an NHS dentist.'

She adds: 'As for the latest study linking alcohol-containing mouthwash to cancer-causing mouth bacteria, if people are worried, there are plenty of similar alcohol-free mouthwashes available they can use instead.

'As a dentist, my advice is different for each patient, questioning each time whether the benefits of using mouthwash outweigh any personal risks for them.'

A spokesman for Kenvue, which owns Listerine, said: 'Based on our initial review, the published trial lacks several important design controls and adequate rigour to make any conclusions about potential impact to human health.'

WHAT'S IN YOUR MOUTHWASH?

The lowdown on antibacterial ingredients

ALCOHOL

This is sometimes added to mouthwashes as it functions as an antiseptic, but it can wipe out good and bad bacteria.

Previous studies linked mouthwashes containing alcohol with an increased risk of mouth cancer, but a 2020 review by Barcelona University found this was only if those using it were also smokers because alcohol makes the mouth's cell walls more permeable to the carcinogens in cigarette smoke.

And although this latest study by the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Belgium found that daily use of alcohol-containing mouthwash increased numbers of strains of bacteria linked to cancer, according to Dr Zoe Brookes, an associate professor of dental education and research at the University of Plymouth, 'meta-analysis on large numbers of studies has not consistently shown a link between alcohol-containing mouthwash and oral cancer'.

CHLORHEXIDINE

An antimicrobial found in high-strength mouthwashes for people with gum disease, this is highly effective at killing bacteria that causes gum disease.

But recent research links it to destroying the 'good' bacteria that help prevent heart disease and other health conditions. It can also stain teeth if used for more than a few days.

CETYLPYRIDINIUM CHLORIDE

Another antiseptic that reduces oral bacteria, lowering your risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay, but potentially also disrupting the important oral microbiome (the colony of microbes in the mouth).

ZINC CHLORIDE

A weaker antibacterial than chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride, but it can still kill off good bacteria in your mouth.

FLUORIDE

A mineral added to toothpaste and many mouthwashes and shown to strengthen tooth enamel and fight cavities.

The good news is studies on fluoride use show it causes little or no changes to the oral microbiome.

ESSENTIAL OILS

Plant oils such as eucalyptus, thyme and menthol are now commonly used in mouthwashes - a 2015 study, by the University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, found they were as effective anti-plaque agents as chlorhexidine.

However, this result means regular use is also likely to upset your oral microbiome by killing off the good bacteria with the bad.
A cyberattack on a major American hospital system has caused dangerous medication mix ups including patients administered narcotics by mistake, leading to an admission to intensive care for life-threatening breathing difficulties.

In another case, a female patient suffered a cardiac arrest and died after data mishaps delayed test results that would determine her life-saving treatment.

Elsewhere, a nurse working for the Kansas branch of the major medical group recalled a 'near miss,' which involved him almost administering a potentially life-threatening dose of narcotic to a baby  because of confusing paperwork.

Employees at Ascension, a Catholic healthcare system with more than 140 facilities across the country, said these patients are just some of those suffering from the continued fallout of a cyberattack last month.

The healthcare giant 'detected unusual activity' across its networks, which left doctors and nurses locked out of digital systems and unable to access vital details about patients' care.

Marvin Ruckle, who has worked for two decades as a neonatal intensive care unit nurse at an Ascension hospital in Kansas, said confusing paperwork nearly led him to administer the wrong dose of a narcotic to a baby after the health system suffered a cyberattack on May 8

Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph in Wichita, Kansas, one of 140 hospitals the Catholic health system operates nationwide

Despite Ascension claiming on June 14 that access to the network was 'restored,' more than a dozen staff have revealed that astonishing mistakes are still taking place across hospital sites  from medication mix-ups to lost test results.

Employees say their hospitals are relying on shocking workarounds to bypass the computers, including using handwritten, sticky notes to keep track of dozens of critically ill patients.

Justin Neisser, a travel nurse working at the Ascension hospital at the time time, told CBS4 in May: 'I just want to warn those patients that are coming to any of the Ascension facilities that there will be delays in care. There is potential for error and for harm.

A emergency room doctor at an Ascension hospital in Michigan, who remained anonymous for fear of retaliation, told Michigan Public and Kaiser Health News a patient was given a dangerous narcotic intended for someone else because of confusing paperwork.

After receiving the mistaken drug, the patient's breathing slowed dangerously down and they had to be admitted to the ICU and put on a ventilator.

The doctor said: 'We intubated him and we sent him to the ICU because he got the wrong medication.'

Another ER provider, a nurse also in Michigan who remained anonymous, told Kaiser a woman suffering from low blood sugar and confusion went into cardiac arrest and died after hospital workers said they waited four hours for lab results they needed in order to proceed with her care.

But they never received the results.

An ICU nurse working at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis in Kansas (above) said she almost gave the wrong medication to a critically ill patient because she couldn't scan it like she had always done in the past with electronic records

ICU nurse Melissa LaRue at Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital in Baltimore (above), said she almost administered a dangerously wrong dose of a drug - a patient's blood pressure medication

The nurse said: 'If I started having crushing chest pain in the middle of work and thought I was having a big one, I would grab someone to drive me down the street to another hospital.'

Marvin Ruckle, a nurse at Ascension Via Christi St Joseph in Kansas, told Kaiser Health News he almost gave a baby 'the wrong dose of narcotic' because of confusing paperwork.

The nurse has worked in the neonatal intensive care unit for 20 years, but said it was 'hard to decipher which was the correct dose' of the infant's medication on the baby's chart.

Mr Ruckle said he had 'never seen that happen when we were on the computer system' before the ransomware attack. He added he had not received training for cyberattacks.

Another ICU nurse working at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis in Kansas said she almost gave the wrong medication to a critically ill patient because she couldn't scan it like she had always done in the past with electronic records.

Lisa Watson told Kaiser: 'My patient probably would have passed away had I not caught it.'

And while Ms Watson had used paper charts for much of her career before electronic records were implemented, she said the system in place after the cyberattack was 'by no means the same.'

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She added: 'When we paper-charted, we had systems in place to get those orders to other departments in a timely manner, and those have all gone away.'

Across the country in Maryland, ICU nurse Melissa LaRue at Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital in Baltimore, said she too almost administered the wrong dose of a drug - a patient's blood pressure medication.

She said: 'Luckily, [it was] triple-checked and remedied before that could happen. But I think the potential for harm is there when you have so much information and paperwork that you have to go through.'

While Ascension may be one of the most recent, it is far from the only institution suffering from cyberattacks. The FBI released its internet crime report earlier this month revealing that in 2023, nearly 1,200 organizations were affected by ransomware, including 250 reports made by medical groups - the most of the 16 industries the report covered.

However, experts have warned hospital attacks don't just steal a patient's information, but pose a serious threat to public safety. Due to other recent cyberattacks, Americans were blocked from receiving lifesaving medication and in one case, a nine-month-old baby lost her life.

Cybersecurity expert Steven McKeon previously told DailyMail.com that rickety infrastructures and outdated security systems have made it too easy for hackers to infect networks with ransomware, warning the situation will only get worse.

DailyMail.com reached out to Ascension for comment and a spokesperson referred this website to the hospital's statement released last week.

However, Sean Fitzpatrick, Ascensions vice president of external communications, told Kaiser via email: 'As we have made clear throughout this cyberattack, which has impacted our system and our dedicated clinical providers, caring for our patients is our highest priority. We are confident that our care providers in our hospitals and facilities continue to provide quality medical care.'
Jurors have awarded more than $3billion dollars to eight Las Vegas residents who suffered liver failure after drinking 'healthy' bottled water that contained a toxin found in rocket fuel.

The suit alleged that Real Water, a now bankrupt alkalized water company, sold bottles that contained the lethal chemical hydrazine. The drinks, marketed as a healthy alternative to tap water, led to the hospitalization of five children and three adults as a result of life-threatening liver problems.

Emely Wren, one of the plaintiffs, said during her testimony that she had started buying the brand after seeing fellow health-conscious peers drinking it.

She had no idea that years later, she'd be cradling her two year old son as he was life flighted to a Salt Lake City children's hospital for urgent treatment.

'It was probably the scariest moment of my life to have your child scream like that and you dont know what's wrong,' she said. Both she, her husband Christopher and her two year old son had extreme nausea, blurry vision and lethargy after drinking the water in 2020.

Emely and Christopher Brian Wren, and their two year old son all suffered from nausea, blurry vision and lethargy in 2020.

The FDA launched an investigation into Real Water and warned that people should not drink, cook with, sell, or serve the product

On top of the $3billion the company was ordered to pay as punishment, the jury asked Real Water to pay $98 million to help cover costs the families have incurred in treating their physical and psychological wounds.

The children included in the suit were between seven months and five years of age. All were flown to a children's hospital in Salt Lake City for acute liver damage in 2020.

Some of the children had cirrhosis, a scarring of the liver that is commonly associated with alcoholics, and is irreversible.

Real Water was manufactured to be alkaline  meaning it has a slightly higher pH than water.

It's popularly thought of us a healthy option, despite having no significant edge over normal water, Dr Howard E. LeWine the Chief Medical Editor of Harvard Health Publishing, said.

Manufacturers make alkaline water in a factory by passing water through giant magnets called an ionizer.

Real Water used a novel seven part process to alkalize their product, which involved electrifying the water for 12 hours twice. The device used to electrify the water was likely what produced the hydrazine.

Hydrazine is used and produced when making rocket propellant and spacecraft fuels. It's clear, highly flammable and smells like ammonia.

Ingesting it can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, uncontrolled shaking, lethargy, nerve inflammation and coma, according to the CDC.

Studies haven't been done to directly determine what affect the toxin has on your liver. But because the liver is responsible for filtering your blood, when it breaks down toxins, they can cause serious, irreversible harm to the tissue, according to Mayo Clinic.

The fact that hydrazine was allowed into the water supply highlights the lack of quality control at the Real Water facilities, Will Kemp, the lead attorney for the families, told Newsweek.

'We just hope that it encourages the bottled water industry to test all their products like they should in the first place,' Mr Kemp said.

One of the most high profile cases against Real Water involved that of Myles Hunwardsen who had to be airlifted to the hospital for a liver transplant after drinking the company's water

Jazmin Schaffer lost function of her hands and started shaking uncontrollably while driving. She was part of the group awarded $130million in damages in February 2024.

Another plaintiff in the February 2024 case against Real Water, Miriam Brody was 78 when she was taken to Henderson Hospital and treated for liver failure.

Tina Hartshorn used to purchase gallons of Real Water to drink at home, and was part of the February 2024 proceedings against the company.

Federal complaints against Real Water date as far back as March 2021. The FDA and Southern Nevada Health District initially investigated the company because it had been linked to non-viral hepatitis.

At this point, Real Water pulled their products from shelves.

This joint investigation resulted in a complaint from the FDA that stated Real Water had violated national laws by distributing 'adulterated and misbranded bottled water'.

The FDA complaint read: 'While the companies marketed their products as a healthy alternative to tap water, the government alleged that the products in fact consisted of municipal tap water that the defendants processed with various chemicals in violation of current good manufacturing practices, relevant food safety standards and hazard prevention measures'.

Less than two months later, the company filed for bankruptcy. Their President, former Nevada legislator Brent Jones, issued an apology.

They were ordered to pay $228million in damages in one suit in October 2023 and $130million in damages in February 2024.

The February 2024 suit included Myles Hunwardsen, 29, who had to get a liver transplant and Jazmin Schaffer, Tina Hartshorn, Miriam Brody and Christina Sosa, who all suffered liver failure after drinking Real Water.

Before they even figured out what caused it, the plaintiffs were struck by intense vomiting, nausea, confusion, fatigue and brain fog after drinking Real Water at some point in 2020, much like the plaintiffs in the June 2024 case.

Mr Kemp, who also represented the victims in the February case, said: 'We want to send a message to food and beverage manufacturers that they should be committed to quality assurance.'
It is the stock market success story of the century  and one that will shape the rest of our lives.

Since going public on the eve of the Millennium, computer chip designer Nvidia has come from nowhere to become the worlds biggest company.

The remarkable milestone was passed yesterday when its share price soared to a new high, overtaking tech giant Microsoft to value the Silicon Valley pioneer at $3.34trillion (2.6trillion).

To put that into context, Nvidias stock market valuation now trumps the annual output of the entire British economy.

Its been a truly stratospheric rise.

In February, Nvidia became the fastest company ever to go from $1trillion to $2trillion. Astonishingly, it took just eight months.

Jensen Huang, 61, the Taiwan-born electrical engineering graduate who founded Nvidia alongside microchip designers Chris Malachowsky and Curtis Priem

Nvidia originally made computer chips for video game software, but has since expanded its horizons to dominate the AI sector

The latest surge means the company  whose chips have turbo-charged the meteoric rise of artificial intelligence (AI)  has seen its share price rise from under $4 in June 2019 to almost $136 today. Thats an incredible 3,477 per cent increase in five years.

Can British investors still make a profit on Nvidia shares, or have you missed the boat if you dont already own them? Experts say that there may be more good gains to be had  though the stock is not for the faint-hearted. We have for some time thought Nvidia would become the most valuable company in the world, says Stephen Yiu, who manages the 1.1billion Blue Whale Growth Fund. In overtaking Microsoft, it has now achieved that remarkable milestone. Yiu has put his money where his mouth is  and made more than 100million backing the AI pioneer in just three years. But the companys latest leap has taken even him by surprise. He recently thought it might take Nvidia another two years to become the worlds biggest company... it took just over two weeks. So can Nvidias amazing run continue? Yiu, for one, is happy to keep it as his funds biggest single holding. He argues that investors are still too focused on the microchips side of the business while overlooking the importance of Nvidias associated software, where he thinks sales growth is likely to be faster over the next decade. Experts have been busy upgrading their price targets on the back of Nvidias latest share spike. Rosenblatt Securities analyst Hans Mosesmann thinks the shares could hit $200, which would put Nvidias value within touching distance of $5trillion. He argues that investors are still too focused on the microchips side of the business while overlooking the importance of Nvidias associated software, where he thinks sales growth is likely to be faster over the next decade. To count the next four largest companies in the world as customers  Apple, Alphabet, Amazon and Microsoft  is surely a sign of a business offering a world-leading product that cannot be ignored, he adds. Cathie Wood of Ark Invest and an early backer of Nvidia reckons the market for AI software could be worth $13trillion by 2030. Wood famously sold out of Nvidia last year, a decision that is estimated to have cost her flagship technology fund up to $800million in potential profits. Although Nvidia shares dont look ludicrously over-valued at the moment, they cant keep going up in a straight line for ever, says Derren Nathan, head of equity research at investment platform Hargreaves Lansdown. One risk is that governments  concerned about the risks to society and even humanity itself  may attempt to clamp down on AI. Rather than trying to pick individual winners by putting all your chips on one bet, experts suggest that you spread your risk by putting money into a fund with shares in Nvidia or AI more generally. Fortunately, there are plenty of AI-themed investment funds on offer, says Dan Coatsworth, investment analyst at investment platform AJ Bell. As well as the Blue Whale Growth Fund, there is Polar Capitals 580million AI fund, which has Nvidia as its biggest single holding, making up 6.3 per cent of the portfolio. The fund provides broad exposure, prioritising companies that are either key enablers or beneficiaries of AI, says Coatsworth. These include Microsoft, Amazon, Micron Technology and Advanced Micro Devices. Nvidia is also the biggest constituent of the technology stock-heavy Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust on 8 per cent. Experts say other technology funds to consider include Axa Framlington Global Technology, Fidelity Global Technology, Janus Henderson Global Technology Leaders and Allianz Technology Trust. Investing in technology funds is easy through a stocks and shares Isa, a self-invested personal pension (Sipp) or a general investment account. British investors can buy American stocks through an online broker, but may pay a higher trading or administration fee. UK-based shareholders of US companies must also fill in a W-8 BEN form, which allows them to pay a reduced tax rate on the investment.

So just how did a start-up without a business plan, that was founded in a California diner, conquer all before it? And can British private investors get a slice of the action?

Nvidia is the brainchild of Jensen Huang  a Taiwan-born electrical engineering graduate whose parents sent him to the US as a child  and two microchip designers, Chris Malachowsky and Curtis Priem.

They founded Nvidia in 1993 at a Dennys restaurant in San Jose, in the heart of Silicon Valley.

The plan was to call their company NVision  until they found out that name was taken by a toilet paper manufacturer. Huang, who once worked as a waiter and dishwasher in a Dennys outlet for $2.65 an hour, suggested Nvidia instead, based on the Latin word invidia meaning envy.

He has run the company ever since, becoming one of the worlds richest people in the process.

Nvidias main product is a graphics-processing unit (GPU)  a wafer-thin circuit board with a powerful microchip at its core. These processors allow lightweight, energy efficient personal computers and laptops to perform a huge number of calculations at high speed.

For decades the big microchip maker was Intel, but Nvidia differs from its rival in some key ways.

Intel and others make industry-standard general purpose chips known as central processing units (CPUs), which handle all the main functions of a computer, producing one mathematical calculation at a time.

But Nvidias GPU can complete complex and repetitive tasks much faster, breaking them down into smaller components before processing them in parallel.

If CPUs are delivery vehicles dropping off one package at a time, Nvidias GPUs are more like a fleet of high-speed motorbikes spreading across a city. That made them the perfect processors to power the dawning AI revolution.

Unlike Intel, Nvidia doesnt make its own chips  thats mainly contracted out to the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Crucially, though, Nvidia not only designs the hardware, but also the software on which they run.

What Nvidia does for a living is not build the chip  we build the entire supercomputer, from the chip to the system, to the interconnects, the NVLinks, the networking, but very importantly the software, says Huang, 61.

This secret-sauce software package is called Cuda. Nvidias chips originally set out to improve the computer graphics used by video gamers. Cudas creation in 2006 allowed other, all-purpose applications to run on Nvidias chips, too.

Initially, AI wasnt one of them. In the early 2010s, AI was still a technology backwater where progress in areas such as speech and image recognition was slow.

Even less fashionable were neural networks  computing structures which mimic the workings of the human brain.

Nvidias breakthrough came when the Cuda platform was championed by British-Canadian computer scientist and cognitive psychologist Geoffrey Hinton, dubbed the godfather of AI.

Two of his students trained a neural network to identify videos of cats using just two of Nvidias boards. Google boffins needed 16,000 CPUs to perform the feat. Machine learning had arrived.

The stunning results prompted Huang to go all-in on AI in 2013.

Nvidias GPUs were soon to be found in everything from smart cars to robotics and data centres with customers ranging from Tesla to Microsoft and Amazon. One setback was a failed 31billion bid to buy Cambridge-based chip designer Arm Holdings.

But Nvidia really came of age a year ago with news that ChatGPT  Open AIs chatbot  was powered by its supercomputers. This propelled the shares into orbit.

The news led to a frenzy among big tech companies and AI start-ups for Nvidias processors, leading to shortages that could last into next year.

On May 23, bumper results that beat market expectations caused the companys value to increase by $200billion in just one day.

To meet the insatiable demand, Nvidia plans to launch a new generation of AI chips  code-named Blackwell  later this year, costing more than $30,000 each.

It can charge so much because of its stranglehold on the AI chip market, with a market share of more than 80 per cent.

This near-monopoly has turned Nvidia into a massive money-making machine, fueling potentially huge future share price rises.
The willingness of broking and investor platform Hargreaves Lansdown to throw itself on the mercy of a random group of financial barons speaks volumes to the lack of ambition of British executives.

Considering London is a leading global banking centre, the lack of vision among our home grown banks is pathetic.

Hargreaves co-founder Stephen Lansdown has reminded the companys shareholders and customers that private equity and sovereign wealth fund ownership may not be ideal.

Across the world, banks are starting to look beyond the great financial crisis. In Spain, BBVA has gone hostile in its pursuit of Sabadell the owner of Britains TSB.

Takeover: The willingness of Hargreaves Lansdown to throw itself on the mercy of a random group of financial barons speaks volumes to the lack of ambition of British executives

Having made a splash in Italy with its digital consumer banking offer, BBVA is to offer its online service in Germany.

In the UK, Debbie Crosbie at Nationwide, not long in the job, is seeking to offer consumers a broader choice of banking with mutual ownership through its 2.9billion offer to buy Virgin Money.

The deal has been badly handled in that Nationwide members deserved a vote. But the goals are laudable.

Contrast this with the stultifying dullness of NatWest and Lloyds post the financial crisis and government shareholdings.

Lloyds long ago ridded itself of the state shareholding and NatWest is now well advanced in the same direction.

Both appear to have become risk averse, which largely explains why the shares sell at large discounts to their American counterparts.

Lloyds, under the late Brian Pitman, was always on the lookout for extending its offering, buying insurers such as Scottish Widows and seeking to extend its mortgage offer with the purchase of TSB.

The forced marriage with bankrupt HBOS, where Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves once worked on mortgages, took place more than 16 years ago.

By now, it should have become much more of a risk taker. It is possible that Lloyds problems with fraud at the Reading branch of HBOS and NatWests lingering shameful behaviour with its GRG restructuring operation have made both banks so risk averse that they are damaging lending and the economy.

If one of the clearing banks were, for instance, to show an interest in Hargreaves Lansdown, which does offer investment opportunities in growth funds, it could make a difference to Britains wealth creating capacity.

It is high time that UK banks freed themselves from the shackles of post great financial crisis caution.

Cooked Goose

Did private equity outfit Permira make a mistake in trying to list luxury Italian sneaker maker Golden Goose in Milan?

The EUs volatile politics, in the aftermath of the European parliamentary elections, which saw the Right make gains, has cast an investment shadow over the Continent.

Luxury goods tend to be an exception with Frances LVMH still Europes most valuable entities.

Shoe brands can be hopelessly erratic. Dr Martens received a glowing reception when it listed in 2021 but is having a nightmare, losing 86 per cent of its value following a overstocking foul-up in the US.

Posh sandal seller Birkenstock is going great guns in New York with the shares up nearly 25 per cent since an listing putting a value of 9.4billion on the group.

Amid the turmoil in the EU maybe Golden Goose, sneaker supplier to Taylor Swift, should opt for the relative calm of the London stock exchange.

After all, it has just recaptured its European leadership from France in spite of the upcoming UK General Election.

Wilsons return

Canary Wharf could do with an injection of new thinking as leading banks such as HSBC move away. Working patterns since Covid-19 and a fightback by the City of London has left Londons second financial district with a problem.

Nigel Wilson, the imaginative former chief executive of insurer Legal & General, has agreed to take over, succeeding George Iacobescu who helped pioneer the Thatcherite dream of Wall Street on the Thames.

Under Wilsons leadership, L&G forged a 4billion partnership with Oxford University, diversified into student residences and housebuilding.

His ambition is to further develop Canary Wharf as a city within a city showcasing UK life sciences and providing more housing, retail and leisure. Good plan.
American electric vehicle (EV) brand Fisker filed for bankruptcy late on Monday after months of rescue talks failed.

The Fisker Group, which operates the EV arm of the business, failed to meet sales targets a year ago for its Ocean SUV, and has been struggling ever since.

In March the New York Stock Exchange delisted Fisker shares after 'abnormally low' prices.

US car maker Fisker launched its first volume-selling model - the Ocean SUV - in February 2022. It starts from less than 35,000

The Californian auto brand tried to challenge Elon Musk and Tesla's electric vehicle empire with its stylish zero-emission family model, which has a range 275 to 390 miles, depending on specification

Henrik Fisker, car designer and CEO of Fisker (pictured), said on Monday: 'Like other companies in the electric vehicle industry, we have faced various market and macroeconomic headwinds that have impacted our ability to operate efficiently'

Fisker - founded by Danish automotive designer Henrik Fisker best know for designing the Aston Martin DB9 and V8 Vantage and BMW Z8 of James Bond fame - had flagged 'substantial doubts' over its ability to remain in business in February.

Fisker failed to secure funding from a big automotive manufacturer - which Reuters reported to be Nissan - forcing the company to pause manufacturing of the Ocean and forthcoming Pear hatchback, scale back operations and cut its workforce.

Fisker Inc. was founded in 2016 by Fisker and his wife Geeta Gupta-Fisker, and went public in 2020.

The model was to rely on parts supplier Magna to assemble its vehicles in order to avoid the huge investment of building factories.

Ambitions were high, with the sustainability-focused brand even securing an audience with the Pope to build the first all-electric 'Popemobile' by adapting an Ocean with a pip-up glass cube-shaped cupola.

But even divine intervention couldn't help.

Projected to produce 50,000 vehicles a year by 2023, the brand's been plagued with missed production targets, supply delays and mechanical issues while bringing to market the Ocean SUV.

Only around 10,000 Oceans were produced, and just under 5,000 cars were delivered, even after prices were slashed from around $60,000 to less than $40,000.

Henrik Fisker showed the Pope his plans for an all-electric Fisker Ocean Popemobile during an audience with his Holiness in the Vatican in 2021

Fisker is one of a number of recent US EV failures. Lordstown Motors, Electric Last Mile Solutions, and bus and battery company Proterra all filed for bankruptcy between 2022 and 2023.

In Monday's Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in Delaware, Fisker Group Inc estimates debts of up to $500 million (393 million).

The filing protects the group from creditors which include Adobe, Alphabet's Google and SAP, while it restructures its debt and sells off assets.

It's the second failed attempt by Fisker to bring an electrified brand to market.

In 2012 Fisker Automotive launched a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Karma - the world's first luxury PHEV. Struck with bad luck, the company even lost a shipment of 300 cars worth $30m to Hurricane Sandy.

Speaking on Monday CEO Fisker said: 'Like other companies in the electric vehicle industry, we have faced various market and macroeconomic headwinds that have impacted our ability to operate efficiently'.
Analysts sometimes discuss value inflexion points, which are milestones that support an investment thesis, typically backed by third-party data.

In mining, this might be provided by a feasibility study; in drug development, by the completion of a clinical trial.

In an ideal scenario, this de-risking would align with an increase in a company's value.

Milestones: Condor has passed significant milestones to get La India 'shovel ready'

While this often happens, it is not always the case.

Consider this latter point in the context of Condor Gold, the owner of the 2.3million-ounce La India Project in Nicaragua.

Condor has passed significant milestones to get La India 'shovel ready' and is now seeking a buyer to bring the mine into production within 12-18 months.

This means it is just months away from a crucial and final inflexion point - value crystallisation.

Under the plan developed by Condor, the mine would begin life as an open-pit operation producing 82,000 ounces annually, increasing to 150,000 ounces in three years.

The initial capital expenditure required, which put at a relatively modest $106 million, with a semi-autogenous grinding (SAG) mill already in place.

Politics: La India is likely to attract buyers familiar with the country or comfortable with South and Central American politics

Permitting is complete, and the land for the operation has been acquired.

It has taken a decade and around $90million in shareholder funding to bring the project to this point.

That 82,000-ounce per year production figure is for a single open pit. An additional two are fully permitted for extraction.

So, it is expected a buyer would drill these out during a construction phase and start with circa 120,000 ounces of gold a year from three permitted pits from day one.

Now this is important when we look at the project economics.

Before we do, it's worth noting that La India is not without its challenges, chief among them Nicaragua itself.

The United States has imposed sanctions on the country due to concerns over human rights abuses, corruption, and the erosion of democratic institutions under President Daniel Ortega's government.

This has been a discount factor for some investors and might impact potential buyers' interest.

That said, Condor's chairman, Jim Mellon, who owns 26 per cent of the company and is leading negotiations with potential buyers, reported in mid-May that discussions are 'advanced'.

Eight companies are under NDA, and there have been five non-binding offers and three site visits.

While no firm offer has been received, detailed talks are ongoing with one gold producer, and two other parties are actively reviewing the company's assets.

'The board is optimistic that a sale will be concluded in the near future,' Mellon told investors in commentary alongside the recent prelims.

This level of interest in an asset located in a supposedly challenging mining jurisdiction is notable.

And despite the sanctions, Nicaragua has an active natural resources industry with a well-defined legal and fiscal framework.

Operators receive 25-year exploration and exploitation concessions, are taxed at 30 per cent, and pay a 3 per cent net smelter royalty.

Investors retain 100 per cent of their developed assets without a free carry to the government, enhancing the investment case.

The gold sector includes three major operations: Bonanza, El Limon, and La Libertad.

Local authorities are described as mining-friendly, with operations considered no more difficult than in Mexico.

La India is likely to attract buyers familiar with the country or comfortable with South and Central American politics.

Chinese investors, known for taking on more risk, might also be interested.

The 2022 definitive feasibility study of La India's phase-one, open-pit development, representing about 40 per cent of the resource, delivers a 'base case' net present value of $87million (post upfront costs), which represents a premium to Condor's current market value of $70million.

This assumes a gold price of $1,600 an ounce.

That NPV rises to $320million at current gold prices, assuming a 5 per cent discount rate and an all-in-sustaining cost of $1,039 per ounce. The payback period would be 20 months.

Now, remember analysts expect this project to open at 120,000 ounces a year for six years.

So, adding in the two feeder pits the asset takes on a whole new dimension.

Life-of-mine earnings (EBITDA) would be $1.36billion (based on an all-in cost of $815 an ounce), according to the companys 2021 preliminary economic assessment.

On that basis, the payback would be a mere seven months, while the NPV is put at just over $600million, giving an IRR of 101 per cent.

All things being equal, a sale could be struck in a matter of months, which means Condor is on the brink of a significant inflexion point.

Yet, the current share price, stagnant over the past 12 months, does not reflect even the base case valuation for La India.

This undervaluation persists despite bullish gold futures predicting prices above $2,700 per ounce by the decade's end.

Investors should note that while the potential for substantial returns exists, so too does the risk that no buyer emerges for La India. This is a classic risk-reward scenario, not a risk-free investment.

To read more small-cap news visit Proactive Investors.
Inheritor passes on Ma's Filigree Mosaic art in Tianjin

People's Daily Online) 10:49, June 19, 2024

Ma Sai, born in the 1990s, has devoted himself to improving the skills of Ma's Filigree Mosaic art, a city-level intangible cultural heritage in north China's Tianjin Municipality.

In March this year, Ma was included in China's first national list of rural artisans.

Ma Sai makes a filigree mosaic artwork at his studio in Liuzhuang Village of Wuqing District of Tianjin, north China, March 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

Filigree Mosaic art was first seen in the Spring and Autumn period (770 B.C.-476 B.C.) and was listed as a national-level intangible cultural heritage in 2008.

Ma said two main steps are involved in the craft, namely, making filigree and making mosaic. Using malleable materials such as gold and silver to make thin threads and then forming different shapes is called filigree art, while inlaying pearls or gems on shaped metal frames is called mosaic art.

Filigree Mosaic art goes through complicated procedures. Taking phoenix-shaped earrings as an example, the entire process requires dozens of steps, Ma said.

It takes a few hours or even one to two days to make a small accessory with the craft, he noted.

This undated file photo shows a Ma's filigree mosaic artwork. (Photo by Zhong Xia/Xinhua)

"The process of reproducing intricate artifacts is very long. In the preliminary stage, I need to review relevant historical records and pictures, and sometimes even go to museums to study the original pieces for reference. It takes me over a month to finish just a single piece of such kind of filigree mosaic artwork," Ma added.

Ma has made over 100 filigree mosaic accessories. Artworks he designed have been used as props in costume dramas, films and headdresses for traditional Chinese wedding attire. An accessory made with the art form by him appeared on the head of a Chinese actress during the Spring Festival Gala of the Year of the Dragon, staged by China Central Television.

This photo taken on March 23, 2024 shows filigree mosaic artworks displayed at the Wuqing museum in Tianjin, north China. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Last year, a piece of filigree mosaic artwork Ma designed won a prize at the China Arts and Crafts Expo.

"As an inheritor of the intangible cultural heritage of Filigree Mosaic art, I'm gratified to see the popularity of traditional Chinese attire, new Chinese-style clothing, and other elements of Guochao," Ma said. Guochao, also known as "China-chic," is a fashion trend featuring modern designs mixed with traditional cultural elements.

"We will continue to carry forward fine traditional Chinese culture and make more exquisite traditional accessories part of people's daily lives," he added.

An enthusiast for Hanfu tries a head decoration of filigree mosaic at a studio in Tianjin, north China, March 7, 2024. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
When Bessie Wallis Warfield was born on June 19, 1896 at a mountain resort where wealthy citizens of Baltimore, Maryland, went to escape the summer heat, no one could have had any idea of the royal crisis she would spark nearly 40 years later.

After all, she came from a secure, discreet and moneyed family - her father Teackle Wallis Warfield was the son of a prominent flour merchant and her mother Alice was the daughter of stockbroker William Montague.

But all was not quite as idyllic as it seemed. Although Wallis - she dropped Bessie as a child - claimed her parents had married a year before her birth, the ceremony actually took place on November 19, 1895, meaning she was conceived out of wedlock.

Furthermore, her father was suffering from tuberculosis and died when she was just 18 months old, which meant that throughout her childhood Wallis and her mother were dependent on the charity of their well-heeled relatives.

They lived first with her father's bachelor brother Solomon, the president of the Continental Trust Company and the Seaboard Air Line Railway.

Then they moved in with a widowed aunt before Wallis's mother secured their future by marrying the son of a powerful Democrat Party politician.

Indeed, a psychologist might suggest that this precarious childhood and its central theme of men bringing wealth and prestige might have influenced Wallis's decision to enter into two advantageous, transactional marriages and have countless affairs.

And that was before she seduced the man who would become King Edward VIII. Though her friends and confidantes always insisted that Wallis Simpson - as she later became - never loved the Prince of Wales, he was utterly besotted with her.

Bessie Wallis Warfield, the future Duchess of Windsor, seen above left being held by her mother Alice at the age of six months in 1896. Right: Wallis in 1920, when she was the wife of US Navy pilot Earl Winfield Spencer Jr

Wallis and the former King Edward VIII on their wedding day in June 1937. It was the Duchess's third and final marriage

After being proclaimed King Edward VIII, he famously chose to abdicate rather than give her up.

This decision, which he took in December 1936 after just nine months on the throne, plunged Britain into the biggest constitutional crisis in modern history.

The young Wallis was certainly well versed in the social niceties she later used to such devastating effect.

Her father's family paid for her to be educated at Maryland's most exclusive girls' school, where she befriended a Du Pont heiress.

A fellow pupil remembered: 'She was bright, brighter than all of us. She made up her mind to go to the head of the class, and she did.'

A later biographer said: 'Her fine violet-blue eyes and petite figure, quick wits, vitality, and capacity for total concentration on her interlocutor ensured that she had many admirers.'

Her first marriage, at the tender age of 20, provided a foresight of what was to come.

In April 1916, she met the wealthy and dashing US Navy pilot Earl Winfield Spencer Jr on a trip to Florida.

They married six months later, but the union was not a success. They first separated after Spencer, a heavy drinker, was appointed commander of a training base in California.

The pair were later briefly reunited when he was posted to Washington D.C.

But Wallis did not join him when Spencer was given command of the gunboat USS Pampanga in the Far East.

Instead, she began an affair in Washington with an Argentine diplomat, Felipe de Espil.

Wallis didn't join her husband in the Far East until 1924. In Beijing she met the Italian Count Galeazzo Ciano, who would later become the son-in-law of Italian dictator Benito Mussolini.

It has long been rumoured that an affair with Ciano led to a botched abortion that left her infertile.

During her year in China, Wallis was said to have learned only one Chinese phrase: 'Boy, pass me the champagne'.

Wallis and Spencer returned to the USA in 1925 and divorced two years later.

She then turned her attention to the Anglo-American former Coldstream Guards officer Ernest Simpson, a shipping executive who divorced his first wife Dorothea to marry her in 1928.

They set up home, complete with four servants, in Mayfair and through a friend, Consuelo Thaw, met Consuelo's sister Viscountess Furness - the mistress of the Prince of Wales - who was to be her entree into high society.

By then, Wallis and her mother - who died penniless in November 1929 - had lost everything in the Wall Street Crash and she and Ernest were living far beyond their means.

Wallis during her first wedding to Earl Winfield Spencer in Baltimore in 1916

Wallis Simpson in the gown she wore when she was presented at court in the early 1930s

Wallis Warfield with her second husband, Ernest Simpson, in their wedding portrait in 1928

Undeterred, the couple continued to meet the Viscountess and the Prince of Wales at society house parties and Wallis was presented at court.

In January 1934, while Lady Furness was away in New York, Wallis became Edward's mistress - a fact he denied to his father, despite his staff seeing them in bed together as well as 'evidence of a physical sexual act'.

By the end of the year, Edward was besotted, apparently finding a certain frisson in her domineering manner and abrasiveness.

As early as 1920, he wrote to a former mistress Freda Dudley Ward, 'I think I'm the kind of man who needs a certain amount of cruelty without which he gets abominably spoilt & soft. I feel that's what's the matter with me.'

Wallis was 'harsh, dominating, often abominably rude,' wrote Royal biographer Philip Ziegler.

'She treated the Prince at best like a child who needed keeping in order, at worst with contempt. But he invited it and begged for more.'

According to a FBI report on the couple, a cousin of Edward said Wallis was the only woman who had been able to satisfactorily gratify his sexual desires.

Apparently, she had learned 'special ways' in China which were said to have partly overcome the Prince's 'extreme lack of virility'.

Edward showered Wallis with money and jewels and holidayed with her in Europe.

His courtiers became increasingly alarmed as the affair began to interfere with his official duties.

In 1935, the head of Special Branch at Scotland Yard told his commissioner that Wallis was also having an affair with Guy Marcus Trundle, who was 'said to be employed by the Ford Motor Company'.

Although this claim has been refuted by more recent biographers, it did little to aide Wallis's reputation in high society.

And in January 1936, her affair with the heir to the throne began to blossom into a full-blown scandal when his father George V died.

Edward watched the proclamation of his accession from a window of St James's Palace with the still-married Wallis by his side.

The situation became more acute when Wallis divorced Ernest Simpson on the grounds of his adultery in October 1936.

The King told Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin that he wished to marry Wallis and keep the throne.

He suggested a morganatic marriage - where he would remain king but she would not be queen.

This was rejected by Baldwin on the grounds that marrying a divorcee was incompatible with his role as head of the Church of England.

In early December, Wallis fled to France after the news broke in Britain. At her hideaway near Cannes, Wallis was pressured by Lord Brownlow - the King's lord-in-waiting - to renounce Edward.

On December 7, 1936, Brownlow read to the press Wallis's statement, which he had helped her draft, indicating her readiness to give up Edward.

However, the King was so obsessed he threatened to kill himself if she left him, even if it meant he had to abdicate.

The King signed the Instrument of Abdication on December 10, 1936 in the presence of his three surviving brothers, the Dukes of York, Gloucester and Kent.

The Duke of York then became King George VI and Edward was made Duke of Windsor.

On December 11, Edward said in a radio broadcast, 'I have found it impossible to carry the heavy burden of responsibility, and to discharge my duties as King as I would wish to do, without the help and support of the woman I love.'

He immediately left the country.

Demonstrators seen protesting against the abdication of King Edward VIII

The King signed the Instrument of Abdication and made a BBC radio broadcast (above) in December 1936

Edward leaving Windsor after his abdication speech. He was on his way to Portsmouth to board a ship to France

The Duchess was the only woman who had been able to satisfactorily gratify the King's sexual desires

Wallis listened to Edward's abdication speech on the radio, before spending the following day in bed feeling depressed.

Her friend Constance Coolidge later said: 'Can you imagine a more terrible fate than to have to live up publicly to the legend of a love you don't feel? To have to face, morning, noon and night, a middle-aged boy with no other purpose in life than a possessive passion for you?'

The couple were married on June 3, 1937 at the Chateau de Cande, near Tours, France.

Guests included Randolph Churchill and the best man, Edward's equerry Major Edward 'Fruity' Metcalf. Mo members of the Royal Family attended.

Later that year, the couple accepted an invitation to visit Nazi Germany. There they dined with leading Nazis, including ambassador Joachim von Ribbentrop - with whom Wallis had a fling in London - Hess, Himmler and Goebbels.

They took tea with Adolf Hitler at his mountain retreat in Berchtesgaden. After the visit, Hitler said of Wallis: 'She would have made a good queen'.

At home, the visit was seen by many as proof that Wallis many be a German agent - a suggestion also contained in FBI files.

Was the Duke, as he always claimed, an unwitting dupe? Historian Andrew Lownie believes the Windsors were actively engaged with a Nazi plan to put Edward on the throne of a conquered Britain.

Following the outbreak of war, the Windsors were moved out of occupied France to Spain.

An illuminating memo from Russian spies in Madrid to the Kremlin read: 'Edward is conducting negotiations with Hitler on the question of the formation of a new English government and the conclusion of peace with Germany contingent on a military alliance against the USSR.'

Weeks later, Edward was appointed Governor of the Bahamas by Churchill as a way of removing him from Europe.

Before crossing the Atlantic, he briefly stayed with Portuguese banker Ricardo do Espirito Santo Silva, a German agent.

A memo from the German ambassador in Portugal to Ribbentrop confirmed that: 'To the appeal made to him [the Duke] to co-operate at a suitable time in the establishment of peace, he agreed gladly.

'He would remain in continuing communication with his previous host [Espirito Santo Silva] and had agreed with him upon a code word, upon receiving which he would immediately come back over.'

In August 1940, at the height of the Battle of Britain when the country was fighting for its very survival, the Duke duly sent a coded telegram to Santo, who reported it to the German ambassador. Did he believe England was about to capitulate?

Wallis hated Nassau, calling it 'our St Helena' in reference to Napoleon's place of exile.

She was heavily criticised in the British press for her extravagant shopping in the United States while Britain was under rationing and the Blitz.

She referred to the local population as 'lazy, thriving n*****s' in letters to her aunt.

After Germany's defeat, the couple returned to France, where they befriended British fascist leader Oswald Mosley and his wife Diana.

However, their life in retirement was far from happy. Wallis used her numerous lovers, often much younger, to humiliate and belittle her husband, according to friends.

She had embarked on an affair with the US ambassador to France, William Bullitt, soon after their wedding.

She also had a long-running affair with the much younger Jimmy Donahue, an heir to the Woolworth fortune.

On the subject of Wallis's feelings towards her husband, his confidant Kenneth de Courcy had a damning verdict.

He said: 'Did she love the Duke of Windsor? I am afraid the sad answer is that she did not.'

One area of conflict throughout their relationship was how she was treated by the British Establishment.

'She went at him morning, noon and night steaming up against his family,' remembered de Courcy.

The first studio portrait of Edward VIII and Mrs Wallis Warfield Simpson

The Windsors arrived at Government in house in Nassau in 1942, after Edward was appointed governor of the British territory

The Duke and Duchess of Windsor outside Government House in the Bahamas in 1942. Wallis hated Nassau, calling it 'our St Helena' in reference to Napoleon's place of exile

'The Duchess was a complicated person  cold, mean-spirited, a bully and a sadist,' observed Dr Gaea Leinhardt, stepdaughter of Wallis's ghostwriter, Cleveland Amory.

Yet it was Wallis's domineering behaviour that most appealed to the Duke, both sexually and in their day-to-day life.

Her cruelty continued right until his death from throat cancer in 1972, when it is said he repeatedly called her name, but she was not at his bedside.

Wallis would live out the rest of her life as a disabled recluse.

She died on April 24, 1986, at her home in Paris.She was 89. Her funeral at St George's Chapel, Windsor was attended by the Queen and Prince Philip, as well as Prince Charles and Princess Diana.

Diana said afterwards that it was the only time she had seen the Queen weep.

It is an irony that the woman who so nearly destroyed the British monarchy was mourned by the woman who did so much to save it.

But ultimately, the real threat to the Crown was not Wallis, whatever her flaws, but the weak and pampered King.
An American tourist and his Thai girlfriend have drowned after allegedly ignoring a red flag weather warning at a beach in Thailand.

James Edmond Newman, 45, from New York, was washed ashore, while Waranya Chanphai, 48, from Surin province, was found floating off Mai Khao Beach in Phuket on Monday morning, according to the Bangkok Post.

According to Police Major Ronnapoom Permpoon of the Thachatchai Police Station said cops received a report at 7:07 am, Bangkok Post reported.

Authorities arrived at the scene and found the American man only wearing black shorts, with bruises on his back, believed to have been caused by the impact of the waves.

The Thai woman was found floating in the seawater a few feet off-shore.

The bodies were taken to the Thalang Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the causes of death.

Police said the pair had checked into a nearby hotel on June 16, then went to swim at the beach the following morning.

Ronnapoom said: 'It is believed that one of them was swept away by a wave, and when the other went to help, they too were struck and drowned. However, we are still investigating the exact cause of death.'

Village council leader Winai Sae-aew said hotel staff called to inform him that a foreigner had drowned in front of the hotel.

He said: 'I immediately went to the scene and alerted the rescue team and police. Residents also assisted with retrieving both of their bodies.

Medics attend as American tourist and girlfriend drown on Thai beach

James Edmond Newman, 45, from New York, was washed ashore, while Waranya Chanphai, 48, from Surin province, was found floating off Mai Khao Beach in Phuket on Monday morning,

Police said the pair had checked into a nearby hotel on June 16, then went to swim at Mai Khao beach in Thailand the following morning

The bodies were taken to the Thalang Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the causes of death

'They may have been guests of Mai Khao Palm Beach Resort and were swimming in the morning when there was no lifeguard present, but there was a red flag put up.

Newman is the second US citizen to drown in Thailand in the last two weeks.

On Sunday, a US army vet was swept out to sea while trying to save his toddler son and wife.

James Everett du Bois, 49, went swimming with his Thai wife, Siriarmorn Phetarwut, 49, and their son Boonpat, aged three, at the Nai Harn Beach in Phuket, Thailand, on Sunday afternoon.

A powerful current reportedly swept the family away from the shore and deeper into the churning waters around 4.50pm.

While his wife managed to swim back to the beach, Mr du Bois was dragged away in the strong waves. Their toddler son was rescued by lifeguards.

Thailand and neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia are at the start of their annual monsoon rainy season which sees soaring temperatures followed by powerful rain storms.
All major political parties standing candidates across Britain for the General Election have now released their manifestos.

Reform were last to release their set of promises, with leader Nigel Farage calling it a 'contract' because he says the public has lost faith in the term 'manifesto'.

In Reform's 28-page document, Mr Farage committed to cutting 50billion off public spending, leaving the European Court of Human Rights and halting all 'non-essential' migration to the UK.

Labour's 131-page manifesto pledged to tackle NHS waiting lists, reduce the national debt, clear the asylum backlog, and establish 'Great British Energy' to produce green power.

Sir Keir Starmer's party has explicitly ruled out hiking income tax, National Insurance and VAT and insisted corporate rates would be capped at 25 per cent. They will also raise 7billion from VAT on private school fees and abolishing non-doms.

The Conservatives, meanwhile, have pledged to stop the boats crossing the English Channel by deporting migrants to Rwanda in a 'regular rhythm' every month from July and introduce a new National Service for 18-year-olds.

Rishi Sunak's party have also promised to boost defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP and look at reversing the ULEZ expansion.

Sir Ed Davey's Lib Dems vowed to get tough on water company sewage leaks and to put mental health professionals in schools.

And the Greens have pledged 40billion a year investment to shift the UK economy over the course of the next parliament, to scrap tuition fees and to introduce a wealth tax of one per cent on the assets of those with more than 10m, and two per cent on those with more than 1bn.

MailOnline has put together handy tool below where you can see each major party's stance on key election issues...
Three men accused of gang rape on a bucks weekend at an Airbnb apartment met their first alleged victims - two 18-year-old friends - at a nearby pub.

Groom Maurice Hawell, his brother Marius Hawell and Andrew David were among a group of nine men who rented a three-bedroom property in the NSW Hunter Valley two years ago.

David and the Hawell brothers arrived at the first-floor apartment on Parry Street in Newcastle West about 6pm on Friday, February 25, 2022, with the others turning up later.

The Airbnb was 280m from the Cambridge Hotel, where two 18-year-old female friends met about 8.50pm after getting ready for a night out at one of their houses.

David, then 28, Maurice Hawell, 27, his brother Marius, 20, and two other members of their bucks group walked to the Hunter Street pub which they were filmed entering about 9.20pm.

What allegedly happened over the rest of that night and the following evening was outlined on Wednesday at the Downing Centre District Court where David and the Hawells are standing trial.

All three are accused of raping the two 18-year-olds as well as a 19-year-old woman on the Saturday night. Some of the alleged sex acts are too graphic to report.

Three men accused of gang rape on a bucks weekend at an AirBnb apartment met their first alleged victims - two 18-year-old friends - at a nearby pub. Maurice Hawell (pictured) has pleaded not guilty to 11 charges involving three women

Crown prosecutor Craig Evans told a jury the two women, Miss A and Miss B, had interactions with the Hawells and their friend 'Matt', who Miss A kissed at the pub.

Mr Evans said Matt, who is not accused of having committed any wrongdoing at any time, later asked Miss A back to the Parry Street apartment.

'I'm not going alone alone, only if my friend [Miss B] can come,' she allegedly said.

Maurice Hawell later allegedly said to Miss B: 'Would you like to come back to our apartment - you and your twin sister?'

The two teenagers, Maurice Hawell and Matt allegedly left the pub at 11.09pm, with Marius Hawell following at 11.15pm and David at 11.28pm.

Mr Evans said once inside the apartment, Maurice Hawell and Miss B went into one bedroom, while Matt and Miss A went into another.

Matt and Miss A had consensual sex and were chatting on the bed when the door opened and Maurice Hawell allegedly entered wearing no clothes.

'Can I join you and Matt?' Maurice Hawell allegedly asked.

The court heard when Miss A denied Hawell's request he said, 'I'm a better root than Matt' but she repeatedly said, 'No, go away'.

Andrew David (pictured) and brothers Maurice and Marius Hawell were among a group of nine men who rented a three-bedroom property in the NSW Hunter Valley two years ago. David has pleaded not guilty to raping three women he met that weekend

Mr Evans said Maurice Hawell and Miss B had by then already had consensual sex, during which he had said, 'Can one of my friends join?'

After Miss B initially said no she allegedly asked who Hawell wanted to join them and he replied, 'It's actually my twin brother'.

Mr Evans said Miss B agreed and another male entered the room who the Crown alleges was not Hawell's brother but David.

While Maurice Hawell and Miss B continued having sex, David allegedly said, 'It's really hot, can I take my pants off?' and she replied, 'Do whatever you want'.

Mr Evans said Miss B then performed a sex act on David and the pair had consensual intercourse after Maurice Hawell had allegedly bitten her nipple.

Marius Hawell allegedly then entered the room and said to Miss B, 'Hey, how are you feeling?' and she replied, 'All right'. He allegedly sexually touched her.

Miss A met up with Miss B in the apartment kitchen where they discussed leaving. They went into a bedroom to get their phones and allegedly found the light off.

The Hawell brothers and Andrew David met two 18-year-old women at the Cambridge Hotel in Newcastle who came back to their rented apartment. Maurice Hawell (pictured) insists the only sex he engaged in was consensual

Mr Evans said Miss A then felt someone grab her , 'hands everywhere' and 'a swarm of people' on her.

As Miss A was allegedly pushed onto the bed and some of her clothing removed she said, 'Where's Matt" and 'None of youse are Matt'.

Mr Evans said Miss A and Miss B were then subjected to various non-consensual sexual acts by numerous men, sometimes at the same time.

At one point, when Miss A allegedly asked 'Is that Matt?' one male voice said, 'Yeah, I'm Matt' and another said, 'No, I'm Matt'.

At another point, Mr Evans said Matt entered the room and Miss A told him, 'I want your friends to stop'.

Matt allegedly spoke to the men in the room, who left, then asked if Miss A was all right. 'I'm fine,' she allegedly replied. 'Where is [Miss B]?'

Miss B allegedly then said in the darkened room, 'I am here'.

Miss A and Miss B were unable to identify who had committed each alleged act against them but the Hawells and David are accused of engaging in a joint criminal enterprise.

Sharyn Hall SC, for Andrew David, said any sex acts engaged in by her client were consensual and asked the jury to carefully consider the complainants' evidence. David is pictured

Mr Evans said the women returned to the Cambridge with Matt and Miss A told one friend, 'We f***ed. It was really good with Matt. But there was like an orgy happening. There were so many guys there it was crazy'.

Miss A allegedly made no mention of non-consensual sex that night and Miss B did not report her alleged assault to anyone until early 2023.

The next night Maurice Hawell allegedly met a 19-year-old woman, Miss C, in Parry Street and told her, 'My mates are all having pre-drinks upstairs', referring to the apartment.

Miss C agreed to come upstairs and once inside Maurice Hawell allegedly led her to a bedroom.

'What about pre-drinks?' she allegedly asked. 'We'll get to that,' he allegedly responded.

Mr Evans said Hawell then pushed Miss C to the bed and removed some of her clothes. Miss C allegedly saw a naked man the Crown says was David lying next to the bed.

Maurice Howell alleged asked, 'Threesome?' and Miss C answered, 'What? No'.

Maurice Hawell (pictured) is charged with eight counts of aggravated sexual assault in company and one count each of aggravated sexually touching another person and attempted aggravated sexual assault in company

Mr Evans then detailed a series of allegedly non-consensual sexual acts committed by Maurice Hawell and David upon Miss C including intercourse.

The Crown alleges Marius Hawell entered the room and watched.

When Miss C left the apartment she called her flatmate then triple zero.

Maurice Hawell and David were subsequently charged with eight counts of aggravated sexual assault in company and one count each of aggravated sexually touching another person and attempted aggravated sexual assault in company.

Marius Hawell was charged with six counts of aggravated sexual assault in company and one count each of aggravated sexually touching another person and attempted aggravated sexual assault in company.

All have pleaded not guilty to each charge.

Richard Pontello SC, for Maurice Hawell, told the jury his client denied some of the acts took place and said all others were consensual.

'There was no sexual touching without anybody's consent,' he said.

'There was no sexual intercourse without anybody's consent. There was never any attempt by anybody to do either of those things.'

Scott Corish, for Marius Hawell, said his client did not engage in any sex or a joint criminal enterprise.

Sharyn Hall SC, for David, said any sex acts engaged in by her client were consensual and asked the jury to carefully consider the complainants' evidence.

The trial before Judge Gina O'Rourke continues.
The acute shortage of teachers affecting schools means big money for those companies who specialise in trying to fill the record number of vacancies, MailOnline can reveal.

And some bosses, like Steven Pendergast and his wife Charlotte, enjoy flaunting the luxury lifestyle of holidays and VIP events funded by their success.

Mr Pendergasts firm, Connex Education Partnership, is only one of many companies making millions out of the classroom crisis.

As MailOnline revealed last week, experienced but demoralised teachers are leaving the UK in droves to seek a better life in exotic locations such as Dubai, Australia and the Far East.

And in some cases their empty posts are being filled  at least temporarily  by unqualified supply teaches or cover supervisors provided by firms such as Connex.

The company describes itself on its website as 'proud of our reputation' for 'providing schools, specialist units and early years settings with whole-school recruitment and training solutions'.

Steven Pendergast - pictured with his wife Charlotte - is a fat cat supply teaching boss who is making millions of pounds out of the UK's teaching shortage crisis

Mr Pendergast, whose social media photos shows him enjoying a number of holidays, including a lavish trip to Dubai, runs Connex Education Partnership

Mr Pendergast - pictured here enjoying business class flights - has seen his profits soar to 4.5million in recent years supplying teachers to the UK's struggling classrooms

It has proved a lucrative business for Mr Pendergast who owns at least 75 per cent of Connex and its parent company Bluestones Investment Group Ltd, based in Chester, according to documents filed at Companies House.

Not only have Bluestones profits leapt to 4.5m in the most recent year, dividends paid to shareholders have comfortably exceeded 5 million over the last two years put together, according to the most recent accounts.

Mr Pendergast on a holiday in Tenerife

This month Connex advertised six positions for unqualified teachers across the north-west of England and in the East Midlands, earning up to 550 for a five-day week.

One of its adverts appeared to lay bare the extent of the teacher-shortage problem, claiming Connex was 'currently working very closely with a great school based in Beeston, who are seeking regular support from unqualified teachers.'

It described the school as 'very successful  with a great reputation surrounding leadership and the behaviour of pupils'.

Connex, of which Mr Pendergast is the majority shareholder, said 'many' of the temporary staff it placed with the school later become permanent members of staff or are offered full-year placements.

Two of the adverts, for unqualified supply teachers at Key Stage 3 and 4 in Buxton and Glossop, state the applicant can be as young as 21 - meaning they would potentially be just five years older than their students.

Mr Pendergast is listed as being director of 28 companies, 27 of which have the same address

Around the same time, Mr Pendergast posted an image of himself with Roberto Mancini, the former Manchester City boss

Companies House figures show Bluestones made pre-tax profits of just over 4 million in 2021, which climbed to just under 4.5 million the following year.

The company itself has a handful of directors including Mr Pendergast and his wife Charlotte.

But Companies House documents show Mr Pendergast, 42, is the single person with majority control of the business, taking over from his wife, 43, in 2016.

The figures show that the company paid out around 2.9 million in dividends to shareholders in the year ending 2022, up from 2.5 million the previous year.

His social media posts include pictures of himself at a Manchester United Player of the Year award ceremony, including one alongside celebrity supporter and former Countdown and Strictly Star, Rachel Riley, which he captioned: 'Fit!'

Another, however, showed him posing with Roberto Mancini, the former manager of at cross-city rivals Manchester City.

And Mr Pendergast was front and centre of the lavish Bluestones Investment Group awards ceremony at Chester Racecourse in 2022, while previous posts show he enjoyed a family holiday in the US and was excited having bought a new jet ski.

He also helped open a steakhouse in his name in Warrington in September 2023, for which he is a director.

A further glimpse into his family's lifestyle is offered by his wife, who regularly posts images of herself in glamorous locations, including Dubai.

Other images show a family holiday to Florida, their holiday home abroad, and the pair enjoying business class flights.

Mr Pendergast is listed as being director of 28 companies, 27 of which are registered to the same address.

There is no suggestion Mr Pendergast, Connex or Bluestones have broken the law.

But the publicly available figures signal the huge amounts of money that can be made out of Britain's classroom crisis, where the number and rate of teacher vacancies is at its highest level since 2010, when comparable records begin.

Mr Pendergast on a family holiday to Universal Studios in Florida. His firm has paid out around 5million in shareholder dividends in the past two years

Mr Pendergast took his family to Universal Studios in Florida. He also posted this picture on social media of the family at Sea World

A social media post on Mrs Pendergast's Facebook page in 2020 announced they were off to sign for their second home which was a nice holiday home abroad

The family have enjoyed the trappings of his success and posted this photo online of a swimming pool during one of their trips

Mr Pendergast (right) wearing a matching pink two-piece on a recent break

Vacancies have more than doubled in the past three years, to 2,800 in November 2023, or six empty posts per 1,000 teachers in service.

Almost a third of those teachers who qualified five years ago have left the profession.

In many deprived areas, or schools which have a bad reputation, the number of vacancies is disproportionately higher than average.

Often posts are filled temporarily by private recruitment agencies, with the number almost doubling in three years to 3,400 in 2023.

While headhunting companies make huge profits and can pay their consultants salaries of up to 100,000 a year, the schools are so desperate to attract staff that for some roles they demand no teaching experience whatsoever, stipulating only a DBS check, the right to work in the UK and two references.

While state schools legally require teachers to have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), that is not the case with academy or independent schools.

But state schools do take on many 'cover supervisors' who do not hold QTS, but will nonetheless be in charge of classrooms.

Last week, teachers told us how the combination of the cost of living, workload, challenging behaviour from children and constant stress made them quit the job in the UK.

A senior state school secondary teacher with 15 years' experience who recently moved to a job in a private school in the Far East said: 'The pandemic changed things for many parents and children and you've ended up with some children who just aren't socialised because they missed out on key stages of learning to get along with their peers.

'Their development is impaired. 'In some cases you've also got parents who expect teachers to take on some of the roles which rightly should be theirs. And if you don't do it, who else is going to?'

Former teacher Ruth Harron, 44, from Belfast, worked in a school in the UAE between 2008 and 2010, then set up her own business, recruiting others, called Teachers in UAE.

'Teachers in the UK aren't allowed to say boo to a goose when they are faced with challenging behaviour, she said.

But in the UAE, you're backed up by colleagues if you're faced with difficult classroom management situations  and it just doesn't happen as often.

'Teachers are held in some esteem in the UAE, and they're treated well.

'There's extra pay if you organise after-school activities and you're encouraged to do your planning work during gaps in the day when the children learn Arabic and Islamic studies, so you don't have much work to take home.'

Among others extoling the virtues of working in Dubai is primary teacher and YouTuber Thomas Blakemore, 27.

He told his 48k subscribers how his main reason for leaving the UK was for a better lifestyle, but also cited politics and parents.

British teachers are quitting their jobs in droves in search of the good life abroad, enjoying less stress, more money and a better lifestyle. Pictured: Miss K Sullivan is one of the thousands ditching the UK

Teaching vacancies are at a record high and recruitment firms are cashing in on the shortage. Pictured: British teacher Laila Ahadpour posts scenic shots of herself in Dubai on Instagram under the handle Diary of a Dubai Teacher

Among others extoling the virtues of working in Dubai is primary teacher and YouTuber Thomas Blakemore, 27

Some parents wanted him to 'be a parent, rather than a teacher and that's not my job.'

He also told of the frustrations of applying for education, health and care plan for three children in his class only to have two of them rejected 'multiple times,' despite gathering huge amounts of evidence.

British teacher Laila Ahadpour posts scenic shots of herself in Dubai on Instagram under the handle Diary of a Dubai Teacher. Shes been teaching Foundation Stage 2 children there aged between four and five for the last six years.

As well as showing off the work of her class, she has also run an online course for her 3,700 followers to help them make the transition to Dubai.

Scottish ex-pat 'Miss K' Sullivan posts frequently on Instagram showing her 9,000 followers glimpses of her life, from the classroom to the gym and in the pool.

Two years ago, she vented at trolls who commented on her page suggesting teaching was an easy life and one said: 'arent you just babysitting?'

When she posted some of their comments, the clip went viral, and she won support from many other teachers around the world.

Francesca Mancilla has over 13 years' experience in the UK and Dubai and her social media shows her enjoying life to the full in the Middle East. She is now back in the UK working as an advisory teacher in West Sussex.

Sadie Landau is in her 11th year of teaching and posts on Instagram under the handle London Primary Teacher, but she's also worked in Qatar and now Dubai, where her social media shows her exploring the desert by bicycle and swimming in the Gulf against the stunning Dubai backdrop.

Connex did not reply to requests for a comment.
Doug Burgum's looks, loyalty and business prowess have propelled him to the top of Donald Trump's list of potential vice presidents.

But does the North Dakota governor have a fatal flaw?

Ever since announcing his run for the governor's residence in 2016, his public appearances have been characterized by a tendency to choke up.

His eyes have turned watery as he talked about the loss of his father and about pandemic masking policy.

His mouth has turned down and his words have ground to a halt during televised town halls and newspaper editorial board meetings alike.

Gov. Doug Burgum fights back tears during a pandemic press conference as he calls on North Dakotans not to use masks as an ideological dividing line

And he has fought back tears, his lips trembling, when discussing the power of gratitude as well as the destructive potential of meth-addiction.

That human face might help him connect with the voting public but it could undermine his chances with the one person who will decide whether or not he becomes Trump's running mate.

The former president famously sees it as a sign of weakness in men.

'I just don't think men crying in public fits the Trump image or the moment,' said conservative broadcaster and Trump confidant John Fredericks.

And you don't just have to take his word for it.

In Tim O'Brien's 2005 biography 'TrumpNation: The Art of Being the Donald,' Trump himself was quoted saying: 'I don't believe in crying.

'It's just not my thing. I have nothing against it when someone cries, but when I see a man cry I view it as a weakness. I don't like seeing men cry.'

Burgum is among four 'finalists' reportedly being considered by Trump. The other three are Sens. Marco Rubio, Tim Scott and J.D. Vance.

Vance trounced the others in a straw poll of conservatives at the weekend but insiders say Burgum may have the edge in Trump's eyes as the only one who would not try to 'out-MAGA' his boss or steal the limelight.

Grassroots conservatives at Turning Point Action's People's Convention in Detroit at the weekend overwhelmingly backed Sen. J.D. Vance in a VP straw poll

Burgum campaigning for Trump in Laconia, New Hampshire, in January after dropping out of the Republican nomination race

Burgum has not actually wept in public, but he has come very close.

In his first State of the State address as governor in 2017 it took only until the second minute to choke up.

'I've personally experienced the power of gratitude, and I've watched it change outcomes, change organisations,' he said, his voice cracking and slowing, 'and I've watched gratitude change lives.'

It happened again later in the speech, as he told the story of a homeless meth addict. His bottom lip trembled as fought back tears while describing how the 19-year-old slept handcuffed to a homemade bicycle for fear it would be stolen.

In 2020, he teared up when appealing to North Dakotans not to make pandemic masks a political issue.

'If someone is wearing a mask they're not doing it to represent what political party they're in or what candidates they support. They might be doing it because they've got a five year old child who's been going through cancer treatments ... ' he says before coming to a halt, fighting back tears.

'They might have vulnerable adults in their life who currently have COVID they're fighting and so again.'

Local newspaper the Forum noted his emotional delivery during an editorial board meeting in 2017.

Burgum battles tears as he talks about the death of his father in a 2023 town hall event

Burgum was among the senior Republicans and potential VP picks who supported Trump during his New York business fraud trial that ended last month

'Burgum's voice swelled with emotion twice, once when relating the story of a Native American elder who told him drug abuse was her community's biggest problem,' it wrote. 'The other time came as he discussed the suicides of two children under the age of 14 on the Turtle Mountain Reservation.'

Expressing emotion might be human in those situations, but those who know Trump say he believes the president and his VP should broadcast strength not frailty.

'There's no secret he views crying as a sign of weakness in men,' he said.

'You are talking about a guy who is a lot warmed behind the scenes than he is publicly and there's been times where staff in the past recommended showing a little bit more of that warmth, publicly. And there's a reason he just doesn't really like doing it.'

The issue famously came up with one of Trump's picks for the Supreme Court when Brett Kavanaugh broke down under Senate questioning about allegations of sexual assault.

'I wonder how #45 is reacting to Kavanaughs crying,' tweeted Omarosa Manigault-Newman, a former Apprentice contestant who followed Trump to the White House.

For its part the Trump campaign rubbished speculation about who the former president would pick for VP.

Brian Hughes, senior adviser, said: 'As President Trump has said himself, the top criteria in selecting a vice president is a strong leader who will make a great President for eight years after his next four-year term concludes.

'But anyone telling you they know who or when President Trump will choose his VP is lying unless that person is named Donald J. Trump.'

A spokesman for Burgum did not respond to a request for comment.
Nearly 20million drivers face paying more for their parking due to a controversial parking app that is taking over Britain's High Streets - amid warnings scammers are targeting drivers with fake QR codes.

RingGo operates across 17,000 locations around the UK, has 19million users and processes 30 per cent of all council parking fees - but critics claim it 'terrible' and 'very buggy'.

MailOnline has also found users of the app may face higher fees, with an hour-long slot on the Market Square in Bicester, Oxfordshire, today costing 2 on Ringo compared to the advertised council price of 1.70.

Explaining the 30p difference, a spokesman said it consisted of a 20p 'convenience fee' in addition to a 10p text message 'reminder charge'.

Many motorists point to wider issues with parking apps in general, arguing they are unfair to those who do not use smartphones - particularly the elderly - and are difficult to operate in areas with little or no mobile phone signal.

Drivers' confusion about how to pay for parking has been exploited by scammers, who have been putting up fake QR codes on RingGo signs in order to steal customers' details.

Retired salesman Martin Copson, pictured here parking his car in North Tynemouth, warned the rollout of apps would lead to older people giving up on visiting the High Street

Councils who use RingGo, including East Sussex, Glasgow and Westminster, have all warned about instances of fake QR codes being put up around car parks

MailOnline has also found users of the app may face higher fees, with an hour-long slot on the Market Square in Bicester today costing 2 on Ringo compared to the advertised council price of 1.70

Parking prices for Market Square in Bicester advertised on the local council website, with the lower price shown

Smartphone parking apps have replaced cash payment meters at many council car parks, with drivers required to download them before paying their fee using a credit or debit card.

However, drivers in Tynemouth, North Tyneside complained yesterday about being slapped with unexpected charges, while others said they were refusing to download parking apps altogether.

Kayleigh Scott, 34, a staff nurse, said her father struggles to use RingGo and would find it difficult to park if she wasn't there to help him.

She told MailOnline: 'It can be really difficult for the older generation to use parking apps. A lot of them don't have a smartphone and can't download the app.

'I have to help my dad with the parking app and he would struggle without assistance. They can make it difficult to pay if you don't have signal as you can't load the app, or sometimes it won't let you load the location.

'Then they give you a reminder of when your parking is coming to an end but if you miss the notification or your signal is patchy you can end up with a fine as you can't extend it.'

Ms Scott complained it was very hard to get in touch with anyone for help if there was an issue, leading to 'hours' on the phone.

Her father Mark Scott, a retired delivery driver, 58, added: 'I don't have a clue about these apps. I find them hard to use.

'I suffer from memory loss and can't always remember my licence plate. Sometimes it doesn't match up with the app and I get a fine.

'They installed apps in Seaham, County Durham and it caused a mess. The elderly couldn't use the apps and lots of local businesses suffered as a result.'

Local authorities were expected to reap 1.8billion in fees from on and off-street parking in 2023, generating 923m in profits, according to the RAC.

Christopher Hogg, 35, a pipe fitter from Ashington, Northumberland, said parking apps were often difficult for elderly people to use

RingGo has an average Trustpilot rating of just 1.2 out of 5, a remarkably low score for the review site

Parking machines cost money to run and are regularly targeted by thieves, and the driving organisation found a fifth of councils are planning to scrap them in favour of paying by smartphone.

But more than four in five say they prefer using cash or contactless cards to pay for parking rather than having to use their smartphone, an Autocar survey revealed earlier this year.

RingGo insists it recognises that some motorists prefer not to use an app so also provides SMS and phone line payment options.

Retired salesman Martin Copson warned the rollout of apps would lead to older people giving up on visiting the High Street.

The 79-year-old, of Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, said: 'It's a generational thing, you are never going to convince the older generation to install an app for parking.

'If older people were forced to use an app they wouldn't go out or park on the high street, which would lead to a decline.

'There's a town that we go to and you either have to use an app or you get one hour free parking so people will nip in for their essentials and not browse other stores. It's seen a major decline in footfall because of the parking.

'You can't beat cash. I just don't use the apps as I would be wary of scammers, especially if they are sticking fake QR codes up. I've been scammed before over the phone. It's very easy to fall for it.'

A poll commissioned by the Mail last year found more than half of over-65s do not feel like using parking apps such as RingGo and PayByPhone.

And four in ten respondents of all ages said they would be put off going to town centres that lacked parking meters.

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove wrote to council chiefs last year to tell them that high street parking should not be 'solely available for those who have access to a mobile phone'.

A damaged parking machine in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, accompanied by a RingGo sticker offering digital payment

Several drivers at the Jewellery Quarter Multi Storey Carpark in Birmingham were struggling with the app yesterday

Kirsty Owens, 44, an NHS worker from Washington, Tyne and Wear, said yesterday: 'The apps are excluding the older generation who don't have smartphones or even young people who may run out of data and then can't pay for parking.

'I think most people have smartphones now and I use the apps myself - although I paid with cash today.

'I've had problems with them before when I don't have signal and then I can't pay to park.

'Sometimes it asks me to change my password and the app won't load so you're desperately trying to pay in the middle of the car park which can be stressful. Thankfully, I don't know anyone who has been scammed by a parking app.'

Her concerns about the service offered by parking apps are widely shared.

RingGo has an average Trustpilot rating of just 1.2 out of 5, a remarkably low score for the review site.

One frustrated driver, Michael Kowalski, called the app 'terrible' and 'very buggy', while a second, John Carroll, said he spent three days trying to renew his residence parking permit in Brent, north London, before he phoned the local council for help.

Trustpilot contained numerous tales of woe from across the country, including Swale in Kent, Stratford-upon-Avon and Barnsley, where one user complained of the app trying to charge him 59.99 after he tried to park before a wedding.

Drivers using the council-owned Jewellery Quarter multistorey in Birmingham had mixed reviews of RingGo yesterday.

Katherine Campbell-Legg, 72, works as a part-time tutor at the School of Master Jewellers, said she found the app 'useful' but sometimes experienced difficulties.

'There's the occasional time when you can't find the number or the app goes a little bit awry, but that could be due to the internet,' she told MailOnline.

'It's really annoying because if you've got no cash you can't park. I have tried phoning the company but it's always a bit complex.

'I feel it is pretty discriminatory. If people don't want to do it that way, there's often no alternative.'

Ruth Oakenshaw (left), from Hull, said she was put off by driving into Birmingham because of the parking, calling the experience 'too stressful', while Katherine Campbell-Legg, 72, (right) said she generally found the apps 'useful' but they could also be difficult to use

A parking warden at the Jewellery Quarter Multi Storey Carpark in Birmingham yesterday

Ruth Oakenshaw, from Hull, said she was put off by driving into Birmingham because of the parking, calling the experience 'too stressful'.

Councils who use RingGo, including East Sussex, Glasgow and Westminster, have all warned about instances of fake QR codes being up up around car parks.

While RingGo does not use QR codes, motoring campaigners warn councils' reliance on it and similar apps leaves drivers vulnerable to scams.

Maria Grasso, 67, was tricked by a fake parking website advertised on a poster at Upper Warlingham railway station car park in Surrey.

The local parish councillor saw a sign saying she had to download an app to pay for parking. After visiting the company's website, she thought it looked legitimate so inputted her card details.

Believing she had paid, she caught her train, but later received a text from a company called Mediacraze.com saying she had signed up for a media streaming service.

She tried to ring a number on the company's website to cancel but no one picked up - leading her to realise she had been scammed.

Ms Grasso later found Trustpilot reviews where users said they had already tried to pay for parking only to find 29.000 was being removed from their bank accounts every month. She cancelled her debit card and reported the fraud to her bank.

A driver using the RingGo app at a multistorey car park in Birmingham

'I was really annoyed with myself for not checking the website more carefully,' she told The Times. 'Fortunately, I was quick enough to notice and stop it  but it could have been a lot worse.'

Ian Taylor, director of the Alliance of British Drivers consumer body, said the issue proved the need to 'stop being so reliant on apps'.

A RingGo spokesman said of the 30p increased cost of using the app to park in Bicester: 'A convenience fee covers the cost of running the service and allows RingGo to invest in new features and innovation.

'In some cases this is absorbed by the local authority or parking operator but in some instances this is charged directly to the motorist as a convenience fee.

'In that area there is a 20p convenience fee for using RingGo and a 10p SMS reminder charge.

'The SMS reminder is an optional service that motorists opt into, reminding you 10 minutes before your parking session expires so that you do not overstay and get a parking fine; you can then choose to extend the parking session from the convenience of our app.'

Car parks are increasingly moving away from cash-based payment methods. Pictured is a RingGo advert in North Tyneside

Commenting on general criticism of RingGo, the spokesman said: 'The last few years have seen a sharp rise in demand for cashless payments, and mobile payments are becoming the norm across many transport networks, shops and restaurants. 86% of Brits over the age of 65 rate their ability to use their smartphone as good (60%) or very good (26%) and It is expected that by 2025, 95% of the UK population will be smartphone users.

'Our customers' satisfaction is our top priority, and we continuously work to enhance our customer service; that is why we also accommodate motorists that still prefer not to use an app by offering SMS and phone line payment options at RingGo sites.

'Parking terminals, which are owned and operated by the Local Authority or Private Operator, can also serve as a good option to pay for parking where they are available.

'Please remember that RingGo does not use QR codes on any signs that we issue to help drivers pay for parking. QR codes are a common tool for scams and fraud, and recent scams have involved false QR codes on pay-and-display machines.

'If you suspect you have found a scam QR code on a local pay-and-display machine, please register it to the council operating in the area so it can be flagged with the local authorities and removed. RingGo mobile app lets drivers park and pay via a secure, encrypted service. Drivers should always be careful when registering card details outside of the app, or if anyone approaches them in a car park.'
James May has accused Pride of being 'hijacked' after sparking a social media row by calling the amount of LGBTQ+ rainbow bunting 'authoritarian'.

The ex-Top Gear host, 61, insisted his view was based simply on disliking swathes of decorations covering London's streets - adding that it is 'healthy' that people are talking about it during Pride Month.

It comes after the Amazon star sparked fury when he slammed the event's flags as 'oppressive' - even suggesting that World War Two started with 'Too Much Bunting'.

He also spoke out to back-up pal Jeremy Clarkson's attack on Surrey Police after one of their officers mowed down a cow on a residential street in Feltham, West London on Friday in an exclusive chat with MailOnline.

Talking as he enjoyed a cigarette and a cup of tea after a 'lovely' lunch of egg and chips, Mr May said: 'I don't think it's been hijacked - no, I do actually. I think it's been commercialised.

James May, 61, insisted his view is based simply on disliking swathes of bunting covering London 's streets - adding that it is 'healthy' that people are talking about it during Pride Month

It comes after the Amazon star sparked fury when he slammed the event's decorations as 'authoritarian' and 'oppressive'

Posting the tweet alongside a photo of flags along London's Regent Street, he even suggested that World War Two started with 'Too Much Bunting'

'But I don't think that's a secret - I think a lot of LBGT people potentially would agree with that.

'But that really wasn't the point of my tweet. I was just saying I don't like a lot of bunting. I think a lot of people don't.'

Pride events have repeatedly been criticised for losing their focus on human rights - with gay rights activist Peter Tatchell slamming the parade in London for being 'too corporate and commercial' on the 50th anniversary of Britain's first march.

Last week Mr May's post attracted thousands of comments and likes, with some saying they were 'confused' by the point he was trying to make, while others said: 'I do agree, less is more when it comes to hanging stuff over streets'.

He shared the post alongside an image of Pride flag bunting that had been hung along Regent Street in central London, although it is unclear whether this was a photograph from this year's celebrations or not.

Many criticised his remarks, with some saying they were 'confused' by the point he was trying to make.

One person wrote: 'I hope you're not insinuating that somehow the LGBTQ+ community is somehow in danger of starting WW3 because of some rainbow flags James?'

But May stood firm in his stance and said: 'I'm not, no. Stand down'.

Another commentor said: 'Respectfully, comparing the LGBT community to Nazis is very offensive. Very disappointed, James.'

But May refuted the claim that he was comparing the LGBT community to the Nazis and responded with: 'I haven't done, though, have I?'

But, speaking near his home in Hammersmith, London, the Man Lab star continued: 'A lot of people say that tweeting about it has brought out a lot of homophobes, and there is a bit of that, but I think the haters - as they say online - the haters are gonna hate.

'So if I'd have said: 'Hey Pride is great! I think they should have more flags!' - whatever I'd said they would have come out.

'I had quite a nice exchange with India Willoughby - the point is that people are talking about it, which is healthy.

'One or two people have said you shouldn't talk about it if you're not going to be positive but it wouldn't make any difference. You can't say - well let's not talk about it then - because the whole reason that the Pride Month goes on is so we talk about it, which I think is very healthy. I don't see that it can do any harm.'

Mr May also took the opportunity to back up his colleague Jeremy Clarkson - after the intrepid farmer slammed Surrey Police for mowing down an escaped calf with their patrol car in horrifying footage.

The animal, called Beau Lucy, was tossed 30ft when she was hit by a 4x4 into in Feltham, West London, on Friday.

Mr May also took the opportunity to back up his colleague Jeremy Clarkson - after the intrepid farmer slammed Surrey Police for mowing down an escaped calf with their patrol car in horrifying footage

The animal, called Beau Lucy, was tossed 30ft when she was hit by a 4x4 into in Feltham, West London, on Friday

Beau Lucy is now recuperating back home, with her owner telling Channel 5 News she is 'sulky and bruised' but otherwise in a 'remarkable condition' despite her ordeal

Taking to social media on Sunday, Clarkson raged: 'I will vote for any party which stops the police from running over cows.'

And his once-warring colleague stood behind his stance - although he admitted the motoring journalist had a 'vested interest' because he keeps cattle.

Mr May said: 'I agree with him on the cow, actually. Generally the police should avoid running over people and animals as a general rule - but Jeremy obviously has a vested interest as he owns cows.

'Ive never thought of cows as dangerous. Because there used to be cows in a field near where I stayed - I used to go over in the field and they used to come over to me and try to lick my face.

'Ive never thought that cows are a threat. I mean they trample on things but theyre not tigers or dangerous dogs, theyre just f*****g cows! Theyre pretty useless really.'

Beau Lucy is now recuperating back home, with her owner telling Channel 5 News she is 'sulky and bruised' but otherwise in a 'remarkable condition' despite her ordeal.

But yesterday, a farmer and union chief claimed police were 'probably right' to ram into the escape calf.

Hugh Broom, National Farmers' Union's South East livestock chairman, said although the footage looked 'horrendous', officers probably 'did the right thing at the time'.

The animal was tossed 30ft when she was hit by a Surrey Police 4x4 into in Feltham, West London

The 10-month-old cow suffered grazes and a large cut on her leg when she was mowed down.

The disturbing footage sparked widespread anger and Surrey Police later announced that the officer who was behind the wheel has been removed from frontline duties pending an investigation.

Mr Broom told BBC Radio Surrey: 'While the whole thing looks horrendous, and it is for everyone, they probably did the right thing at the time.

'The other option is you shoot the animal. In that environment would you want to be using a rifle in a built-up area on a dark Friday night?'

Mr Broom added: 'God forbid it had gone the other way and the animal ran off and bumped into someone, sent a child flying, sent any person flying, [which is] perfectly possible, and they were seriously injured or worse.

'People would be saying: 'Why wasn't the animal stopped?'

But despite Mr Broom trying to justify the incident, Beau Lucy's owner has raised fears of the cow becoming infertile.

The calf was earmarked from birth as a 'breeding cow' - sparing her a one-way trip to an abattoir in favour of a life spent life grazing lush meadows with generations of her own calves.

Cows usually start giving birth at around two to three years old and continue to do so for around a decade.

Now friends of the farmer worry that the stress of the attack may have left her unable to reproduce - leaving him with no humane way of making back the investment in her feed and care if Surrey Police fail to pay compensation.

If Beau Lucy's injuries mean she cannot give birth, the owner will have wasted thousands of pounds on her at a time when many farmers are struggling to make ends meet.
An ongoing feud between two men who claim to be in charge of a small town in Alabama has shoved the community into national spotlight.

Tarrant mayor Wayman Newton and city manager John C. Brown have been battling it out for more than a year - just one of the many bizarre controversies that have plagued the tiny Jefferson County town of about 6,000 residents.

Newton was appointed mayor in 2020 and Brown was given the city manager title on June 6, 2023.

The day after Brown was appointed, Newton filed a lawsuit against him, claiming the city council 'illegally' put Brown in his managerial position.

A judge later granted a temporary restraining order against Brown that stopped him from taking over Newton's spot as 'the king of Tarrant.'

Both men, who refuse to speak with each other, now have to settle their issues in the Alabama Supreme Court.

Wayman Newton, the mayor of Tarrant, Alabama sued John C. Brown after he was appointed as city manager in June 2023

Both men, who refuse to speak with each other, now have to settle their issues in the Alabama Supreme Court. (pictured: Tarrant City Hall)

'He sends out emails to employees and they've been instructed to send all those emails to me, and I don't bother responding,' Newton told AL.com.

The legal battle between Newton and Brown started last summer when the mayor sued Brown for taking over as the city manager of Tarrant - a position that council members voted on.

Judge Pat Ballard ruled in favor of Newton, stating that the city council could not hire someone else to do his job.

The day after Brown (pictured) was appointed, Newton filed a lawsuit against him, claiming the city council 'illegally' put him in his position

In turn, Brown lost his job, his $100,000 annual salary, and his bank account was wiped to pay for his $78,000 in legal fees, as ordered by Ballard.

Brown appealed the case and it was soon handed over to the state's supreme court. The judge has paused the garnishment on his account in the meantime.

Newton said that the case being pushed to supreme court will only address Ballard's order to withdraw money from the former city manager's account, and does not mean Brown can get his job back.

'The stay doesn't mention anything about him working,' Newton said.

'So as far as I'm concerned the judge's order still stands that he was improperly hired by the council and he doesn't have the legal authority to work in the role of the city manager, so we don't have a city manager.'

The mayor said that the city is 'well into the supreme court case' and it's too late for Brown to secure a bond as part of his appeal process.

Judge Pat Ballard ruled in favor of Newton (pictured), stating that the city council could not hire someone else to do his job

Meanwhile, Brown's lawyer, Scott Morro, said that his client has the right to return to work.

'Were confident that in the long run John Brown is going to be the city manager of Tarrant according to the law, not according to one mans narcissistic insistence who wants to be the king of Tarrant,' Morro said.

'Hes back with the blessing of the city council but being ignored by the mayor. The mayor is calling meetings and telling everyone not to do anything that he says, but their time is coming.'

Morro added that he is working on obtaining a bond and a letter of credit for Brown.

'The garnishment is the bank saying, "We are going to hold this amount." Weve already got the appeal brief in, and we are waiting on the bond, so once the bond is made the underlying judgment is stayed,' Moro told AL.com.

DailyMail.com contacted Newton and Brown's lawyer, Morro, for comment.

The struggle for power between the mayor and city council arent the only troubles facing the small town.

In December, a 79-year-old woman was arrested on misdemeanor charges alleging disorderly conduct and harassment after a heated exchange with a city worker at a City Council meeting.

Novilee Williams (far left) was arrested and taken to jail on December 5, just a day after she got into an argument with Shayla Myricks, a city accountant (right)

Novilee Williams was arrested at home and taken to jail on December 5, just a day after she got into an argument with Shayla Myricks, a city accountant.

Video of the tense encounter at the meeting showed Williams push Myricks' hand away, saying 'turn around honey,' the Associated Press reported.

According to the police report, Myricks accused the resident of 'fighting and threatening behavior in a public place.'

'There are some rules for some and then there are rules for others,' Council Member Veronica Freeman said following the incident, suggesting it was politically motivated.

'When a certain person gets attacked, it is a problem. They went overboard in doing that to Ms. Williams.'

Freeman also made headlines after Councilman Tommy Bryant, a white man, referred to her, a black woman, as a 'house n*****.'

Video of the encounter showed Bryant get angry over a social media post that his wife allegedly uploaded with Mayor Newton and Freeman that featured the slur.

The Mayor has denied using the racist epithet against council member Veronica Freeman (pictured). Bryant justified his actions by claiming that he was just repeating what the Mayor said

Upset that someone in the crowd suggested that his wife used a racial slur, Bryant repeatedly said the word at the meeting - claiming he was just repeating what Newton called Freeman in the video.

The mayor denied Bryant's claim that he made the comment about Freeman.

Bryant said his actions were justified. He also refused to apologize and was noncommittal when asked if he was racist.

'It's according to what your definition of the word racist is,' he told WVTM. 'What a lot of the public's definition is, I might be a racist. But according to what the true definition of a racist is, absolutely not.'

About a year after that conflict, Bryant was arrested for allegedly punching Newtown after the mayor made a lewd sexual reference about his wife. Newtown said he was reacting to a racist comment from Bryant.

Bryant was found not guilty of assaulting the mayor in 2023.

Another controversy involved Tarrant Police Chief Wendell Major who was suspended three times for insubordination and allegedly deleting murder and arson charges in several cases.

Majors lawyers called the accusation 'absolutely, 100% false.'
Neighbors said the tragedy was unspringing and Themelis was disturbed

Cops had been called to the house at least 10 times over family fights

'Monster' teen gunman Christos Alexander Themelis murdered his parents in cold blood with a weapon obtained by his mother after cops seized his guns in a court order due to his disturbing behavior, DailyMail.com has been told exclusively.

Themelis, 19, was handed a finalized Risk Protection Order in April but is believed to have used mom Rebecca's newly acquired pistol to callously shoot her in the back of the head in front of police in a horrific stand-off outside the family home in a quiet Tampa, Florida, neighborhood.

The only child had already executed 51-year-old father Christos Sr inside the four-bedroom house when deputies from Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrived and found him out front with his terrified mother, 48.

Horrified officers watched as he blasted Rebecca after they yelled for her to reach safety, sparking a dramatic shootout in which a cop was wounded and the teen gunman died.

Neighbor Troy Cann, whose home was used as cover by officers, told DailyMail.com exclusively: 'Cops took all his guns away because of that court order, but the mom then bought one herself. That is known in the neighborhood.'

Christos Alexander Themelis (center) is believed to have used his mother Rebecca (left) own gun to murder his father (right) and execute his mom

Themelis had his own weapons confiscated by police in April after a Risk Protection Order was finalized because he was deemed a danger to himself or the public

Pointing across to the street to the scene of the carnage, he continued: 'He killed her with her own gun right there in the front yard. It was some kind of pistol.'

A Risk Protection Order in Florida can temporarily restrict a person's access to firearms and ammunition if they are considered a danger to themselves or the public.

HCSO could not confirm to DailyMail.com how Christos Alexander obtained a weapon in light of the order  or if the gun used was bought by his mother 'because it is still an active investigation.'

Records obtained by DailyMail.com show the sheriff's office began the application in February, 2023, and proceedings continued until a final order issued on April 3 this year. At one point Rebecca was served with a subpoena over the case.

Meanwhile, Cann, 53, and other neighbors have painted a picture of Themelis as a mentally disturbed loner who paced local streets at all hours  often latching on to female dog walkers in a bid to chat with them.

The construction supervisor said the killer also frequently shouted and harassed homeowners and would stand in the street and point an unloaded air pistol at him.

Cops had previously been called 10 times to the Themelis home, often by anxious locals, because of loud and escalating arguments between the killer and his parents that spilled outside, DailyMail.com has learned.

Horrifying body camera footage captured the moment Themelis shot his mother in the back of the head then began firing at the officers

And teacher Gladys Moreno, who lives opposite the house of horror, chillingly revealed: 'Everyone round here was expecting something like this to happen one day.'

Asked if she meant as serious as this tragedy, the dual English/Spanish language specialist replied: 'Yes, with guns. Everybody thought it would be this bad. They were always having loud arguments outside and people would call the police.'

Cann said of Themelis: 'He'd walk around with a little kind of air pistol and stand in the middle of the street right there pointing it at me while I was on my driveway.'

'It wasn't loaded, but he'd cock it so it made a popping sound when he pulled the trigger. He'd aim and it would just go pow, pow, pow, pow. No pellets, no nothing, just pop.

'Other times you'd see him pacing around the streets during that day and in the middle of the night, often talking to himself.

'He'd threaten people. He'd yell at people, he was loud. But he also seemed desperate to talk to people in the street. He'd latch on to folks walking their dogs, and he particularly focused on women dog walkers. I start early and sometimes he would be out there walking at four in the morning.

Desperate Rebecca called police just after 11 p.m. Saturday, saying her husband had been shot. More shots were heard on the call when she was talking to the dispatcher, the sheriff's office said.

Deputy Shane McGough (pictured), 26, was shot in the leg during a standoff with the teen gunman after pleading with Rebecca to walk towards him

Deputies arrived within minutes to the scene in northwest Tampa. Dramatic bodycam footage from Deputy Shane McGough, 26, reveals the officer on Cann's driveway pleading with the mom to walk towards him.

McGough, shielded by Cann's Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, radios in 'he's got her at gunpoint.' The cop then shouts to Themelis: 'Listen, we don't want to hurt you, just let your mom walk to us, let her walk to us OK?'

His voice rising, the cop shouts: 'Keep your hands up do not reach behind your back.'

It appears the teen then retreats and grabs a gun. McGough again pleads for the mom to 'walk to me, walk into my flashlight ma'am get away from him now and come here.'

However, seconds after the officer shouts to Themelis 'stop reaching into your waistband,' gunshots can be heard followed by an exchange of fire involving fire deputies. McGough, struck in the leg, yells 'I've been hit' and asks fellow officers for a torniquet.

A SWAT team and a robot entered the house, finding the father dead on the floor and the killer son also dead from police bullets in a different room, HCSO said.

Sheriff Chad Chronister branded the killer 'a monster' who 'is responsible for not only injuring our deputy by also killing his own mother and father.'

Cann gave a dramatic account of the shootout to DailyMail.com, saying: 'I was woken around 11 by this pop, pop, pop. So I run out of my front door and the cop is shot right there blood stains on the driveway.

When deputies from Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrived, 51-year-old father Christos Sr was already dead inside the house and the teen was outside with his 48-year-old mother

Neighbors told DailyMail.com the family had been arguing the night of the murder and the cops had been called to the Themelis household for domestic numerous times in the past

Others noted Themelis' (right) odd behavior and said he would accost people on the street, harass female dog walkers and had even pointed at gun a neighbors

'And his partner is yelling at me, get back inside, lock your door and take cover. I was that close to the wounded cop to drag him in but his partner yelled again for me to get back inside.'

'That's when even more bullets started flying. There were rifle shells right next to my truck. Then it died down. I went into my garage through the inside door and I could hear SWAT guys on my driveway.'

He said of Themelis: 'It was obvious the kid was mentally disturbed. After I moved here last year my sister pulled up in the driveway with her window down.

'He rushed over and gets in her window. I'm there also, thinking, dude, no way, that's not cool. You gotta go, and I told him. Right then I knew something wasn't right.'

'This is a nice quiet blue collar neighborhood with a lot of retired folk. And the whole neighborhood knew about him because he'd just cause problems.'

Moreno, 61, who has lived opposite the family for more than 20 years, said: 'That boy was mentally ill and he did not get the appropriate treatment.'

'Everybody round here used to hear the arguments from that house. The police would be called. They would come several times but then go.'

On Saturday night, she again heard arguing over the street and ventured outside to see exactly what was happening. 'I see them, the boy is coming in and out, in an out. He's with his mom and dad and he keeps arguing. And it's loud,' she told DailyMail.com.

'I went back inside, not sure what to do.' Moreno is unclear about what she heard next, but within minutes police had arrived in force.

She went upstairs for safety with her husband Victor, fearing to look out. 'I was afraid, it was too close to me. It was dangerous,' she said. 'Everything seemed to happen so fast.'

Days after the horror, evidence of the gun battle remains clear. Two bullet holes are visible near the front door of the Themelis home and there's what appears to be a large blood stain on the path leading to it. A window by the front door is covered by cardboard. There's also a bloodstain on neighbor Cann's driveway.

Family members told DailyMail.com they are shocked about the news and the killer's parents, originally from Massachusetts, had moved to Florida for a better life

One neighbor said Themelis was mentally ill and they suspected something horrible would happen at the house saying, 'everybody thought it would be this bad'

Both the killer's parents are originally from Massachusetts and moved to Florida in 2003, where Christos Sr founded a moving company called Christos & Christos. He is from a large Greek Orthodox family.

His uncle Stephen Themelis, of Lowell, Massachusetts, told DailyMail.com: 'We are all so shocked. We just don't know how to decipher and understand it.'

'Because they were down in Florida, I didn't really have much to do with Christos Alexander. Clearly he was a troubled child, but only his mother and father would really have any answers.'

'Christos Sr was my nephew and I was also his godfather. He and Becky had the guts to make a new life for themselves in Florida and start a business, for a better future.'

'But this is like a disconnect. Everything's good and then all of a sudden it isn't. And you think, it can't be true.'

Rebecca's 75-year-old mother Maria Jennings tearfully told DailyMail.com at her home in Clearwater, Florida: 'I've lost my daughter. I just can't add anything to that.'

HCSO office confirmed to DailyMail.com that Themelis died from his injuries in the shootout and did not take his own life, as per some reports.

Wounded deputy McGough was released from the hospital after a bullet was removed from his right leg and a rod installed for support. His recovery is expected to take three months.


Kiran Choudhry & her daughter join BJP a day after quitting Congress Former Haryana Congress leader Kiran Choudhry and her daughter Shruti Choudhry on Wednesday joined the BJP here, saying she would work tirelessly to ensure the party returns to power in the state for a third time in a row.



Kiran, 69, and her daughter and ex-MP Shruti Choudhry took the BJP membership in the presence of Union Minister and former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, among others.



Today, I took this decision because the Prime Minister has pledged to a developed India by 2047. I have full faith that India will shine in the world. The public welfare work done by the Prime Minister has led to the formation of a BJP government in Delhi for the third time. I have worked a lot with Khattarji. There used to be a lot of bitterness between us. But the way he worked has been my source of inspiration, Kiran said after joining the BJP.



Both resigned from the primary membership of the Congress on Tuesday, saying the state unit of the party was being run as a "personal fiefdom", in an obvious reference to former Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda.



Kiran Choudhry was elected a legislator from Tosham four times in a row -- 2005 (bypoll), 2009, 2014 and 2019.



In a letter to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, she said, "It is most unfortunate that the Congress in Haryana is being run as the personal fiefdom leaving no space for sincere voices like mine, who have been stifled, humiliated and conspired against in a most well-orchestrated and systematic manner, thus, significantly hampering my diligent efforts to represent our people and uphold the values I have always stood for.



A prominent Jat leader and the daughter-in-law of former Haryana Chief Minister Bansi Lal, Kiran Choudhry was also reportedly upset over the denial of a ticket to her daughter Shruti Choudhry for the Bhiwani-Mahindergarh Lok Sabha seat.



Since then, Kiran Choudhry has been quite vocal and critical of the functioning of Bhupinder Hooda.



Shruti Choudhry was the Working President of the Haryana unit of the Congress.



At a poll rally during the recent Lok Sabha elections, Rahul Gandhi reportedly had to intervene in a spat between Kiran Choudhry and Congress leader Rao Dan Singh, a Hooda loyalist who unsuccessfully contested the elections from Bhiwani-Mahindergarh.




Footage of police 'targeting' a lone Tibetan protester after he waved a Free Hong Kong flag during Chinese Premier Li Qiang's motorcade has sparked fury.

The Tibetan sympathiser and a handful of pro-China protesters were seen holding flags and shouting while Mr Li drove past them at Kings Park in Perth, Western Australia, earlier this week.

Drew Pavlou, who describes himself as anti-CCP, was filming when a burly police officer threatened to drag the Tibetan protester over the metal barricade.

'Do you want to fly over this fence?' the officer said while gripping the man's torso.

'Listen to me, I'll either pick you up and bring you over the fence or you can stop. Which do you want to do?

Footage of police 'targeting' a lone Tibetan protester after he waved a Free Hong Kong flag during Premier Li Qiang's motorcade has sparked fury online (pictured)

Tensions had hit boiling point just minutes earlier when pro-China protesters tried to cover the man's small flag with their larger Chinese one.

Mr Pavlou accused one of the protesters of elbowing him in the head as he tried to protect the Tibetan sympathiser being 'targeted' by the mob.

'I tried to help him at which point a CCP supporter elbowed me in the face in full view of a police officer. They did nothing - they only targeted us,' Mr Pavlou said.

'Police forced us to leave at which point an elderly CCP supporter spat on us.

'Again, this occurred in full view of the police and my footage includes the sound of her spitting. Again, they did nothing.

'We were the only ones forced to leave and the only ones targeted by police.'

The Tibetan protester was seen being escorted from Kings Park by WA police officers

Mr Pavlou said he was given a second move on order which banned him from the entire King's Park precinct for 24 hours.

'My only crime was filming,' he said.

Many Aussies were critical of the police response in the comments.

'Typical. Police services for the people around Australia are now brutal police forces used against the people, biting the very hands that feed them,' one person said.

'I'd say that WAPOL policeman was threatening,' a second wrote.

A third said: 'Why do police always target the lone protestor rather than doing their job and ensuring everyone is safe while ensuring peaceful freedom of expression?'

In response to the criticism, a WA Police spokesperson said: 'Protesting is a legal right in Australia.

'The Western Australia Police Force regularly and agnostically engages with protesters in an effort to ensure the safety of everyone involved and other members of the public.

'A WA Police officer can issue a move on notice to someone who we believe may breach the peace.'

Tensions between rival demonstrators escalated on Monday morning at Parliament House

It comes after pro-China protesters swarmed the lawn at Parliament House in Canberra and blocked Tibetan activists ahead of Mr Li's state visit.

Some protesters carried huge flags that conjoined the Chinese and Australian flag, as Tibetan sympathisers struggled to hold their banner aloft.

At one stage, a scuffle broke out as a man fell to the floor and brought down a raised speaker as a heavy police presence observed the stand-off.

Mr Li declared that ties were 'back on track' after 'twists and turns' when he arrived at the weekend - welcome news to lobster fisheries and the remaining beef producers under restrictions.

The second-most powerful leader in Beijing held talks with Anthony Albanese on Monday as part of an annual leaders' meeting in the capital, followed by a state lunch with politicians, business representatives and community leaders.

A trip to Western Australia made up the latter part of the visit, which is taking place with some clouds hanging over the two countries' broader relationship even as many trade restrictions have been removed.

China imposed sanctions on $20billion of products in 2020 after the former coalition government called for an inquiry into the origins of the Covid pandemic.

Mr Li's visit is the first by a Chinese premier to Australia in seven years and comes after a period of turbulence for the country's biggest trading partner.
Joe Biden is being encouraged to replace Kamala Harris with a blast from the past to aid his floundering chances at re-election.

Biden, who has struggled in the polls nationally and in key swing states, has left Democrats wondering if major change is needed to beat Donald Trump in November.

Questions and doubts exist over the health and ability to perform the job of Biden, at 81, the oldest president in American history.

Harris - the first female and first black vice president in American history - has also struggled, with poll numbers saying a majority of Americans don't think she would be a good president.

Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Kathleen Parker wrote Tuesday that Democrats should look to their recent past for a new VP.

A columnist in the liberal Washington Post has written that Joe Biden should consider replacing Kamala Harris on the ballot, with a blast from the past joining as his potential VP

Washington Post columnist Kathleen Parker wrote in the Jeff Bezos-owned paper on Tuesday that Democrats should look to their recent past for a new VP

Only about a third of Americans believe Vice President Kamala Harris would win a presidential election according to a new poll released last week.

In her piece, she wondered why no one has floated Hillary Clinton as a potential running mate.

Clinton, of course, served as First Lady, Secretary of State and a United States Senator before losing to Donald Trump in 2016.

Parker argues that Harris lacks 'competency' which deters voters who see Biden's 'steady decline over the years' and that Clinton could provide reassurance, despite being 76 years old herself.

'If Biden needs to step down, even those who didn't vote for Clinton would have confidence in her ability to keep the country on track,' Parker wrote.

She also believes that Clinton's 2016 loss - which she's spent the last eight years playing the blame game over - still rankles her and leaves her with unfinished business.

'At 76, she might want no part of it, but it's hard to retire when you feel your job isn't done,' she wrote, citing Clinton endorsing a candidate in a New York Congressional district to unseat 'Squad' member Jamaal Bowman.

Parker, a Pulitzer Prize winner, called it 'impossible to ignore' Biden's ''stumbles, his search for words, his occasional blank stare.'

Parker wrote that Democrats should look to Hillary Clinton for a new VP

Parker argues that Harris lacks 'competency' which deters voters who see Biden's 'steady decline over the years' and that Clinton could provide reassurance, despite being 76 years old herself

'It's just a thought, but worse ideas have met with regrettable success,' she wrote of Clinton.

She admits there are 'risky' drawbacks to her plan, including alienating black voters but says Democrats must do this if they want to 'advance a worldview consistent with their values.'

Parker said that Biden should pacify Harris and her backers by making the vice president his new attorney general.

A Politico/Morning Consult poll shows that just 34 percent believe that Harris would likely win an election for president if she was the nominee. Fifty-seven percent of voters believe it is not likely.

The number of doubters include 31 percent of Democrats and 62 percent of Independents.

The numbers indicate that Harris, Biden's second-in-command, would struggle if she had to replace the president as the Democratic nominee.

Harris also faces skepticism from voters about whether she would make a good president. Just 40 percent believe she would make a good president while 51 percent do not. Nine percent did not know or did not have an opinion.

Fifty-one percent of independents believe she would not make a good president and even sixteen percent of Democrats are doubtful of a successful Harris presidency.

A Politico/Morning Consult poll shows that just 34 percent believe that Harris would likely win an election for president if she was the nominee. Fifty-seven percent of voters believe it is not likely

Harris' polling struggles demonstrate that Biden may have picked the wrong Democrat to be his vice president, as over half of Americans do not think she would be a good president.

But voters in the poll appear slightly more conflicted when asked if Biden should replace Harris on the ticket.

Thirty-six percent of voters believe Biden should replace her with another Democrat while 39 percent said Biden should not replace her. Twenty-six percent did not know or had no opinion.

Harris continues suffering low approval numbers, currently at 42 percent which is up slightly from previous polls.

A Redfield & Wilton Strategies poll in May showed her with only a 37 percent approval rating.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris introduces U.S. President Joe Biden during a campaign

Her failed 2020 presidential campaign and her performance as vice president has left the country divided about her political skills.

Fifty-two percent of voters in the poll believe Harris is smart, 47 percent believe she is level headed, and 45 percent believe she is prepared. Just 44 percent described her as honest.

Despite her low polling numbers, Harris' strong name identification with Democrats gives her a significant edge among other possible presidential candidates for 2028.

Among Democrats, 41 percent chose Harris as the hypothetical nominee in 2028. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg was second with 15 percent followed closely by California Gov. Gavin Newsom at 14 percent.

The rest of potential 2028 Democrat presidential nominees remained in the single digits with Democrats. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer at 5 percent, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly at 4 percent and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro at 2 percent.

Seventeen percent of Democrats didnt know or had no opinion.

The Politico/Morning Consult poll surveyed 3,996 registered voters from May 28-29 and has a margin of error of 2 percentage points.
Burned human remains found in a backyard fire pit are believed to be a young family-of-four who were allegedly killed by their landlord.

Rain Mancini, 26, Phillip Zilliot II, 25, and their children Karma, 6, and Phillip III, 5, went missing on June 12 in Pasco County, Florida.

Rory Atwood, 25, has since been charged with one count of first-degree murder after they found the remains at his home which were charred beyond recognition.

The family were last seen in the Nottingham Trl area of Hudson on June 12 around 12.30am.

On June 14, police performed a welfare check on the family after a woman told officers her brother had seen bodies during a FaceTime call with Atwood, ABC Action News reported.

Rain Mancini, 26, Phillip Zilliot II, 25, and their children Karma, 6, and Phillip, 5 went missing on June 12

Atwood had reportedly called the brother asking for help to burn what he claimed was garbage.

But during the call the man reportedly saw 'adult and child bodies'.

When police first went to Atwood's home in Hudson he allowed them to search the property and they did not find anything suspicious.

The next day, police received a call from a man who claimed Atwood had 'admitted to killing his roommates and their children,' an affidavit stated.

It was only when officers returned to carry out a second search with cadaver dogs that they discovered the remains.

A dog found what 'appeared to be a small skeletal remains' with soft tissue in a fire pit, according to USA TODAY.

They also reportedly found human bone fragments and vertebrae.

'We believe it may be this family, but at the same time, I can't give a definitive untilthe [medical examiner] gives us final confirmation that it is,' Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco said Saturday.

Florida police charged 25-year-old Rory Atwood with first-degree murder after they found remains at his home

Atwood told police he had got into a fight with the parents over a gun in the lead up to their deaths, according to a criminal complaint seen by USA TODAY.

He reportedly said he had used 'adrenaline' to drag their bodies to the firepit.

Sheriff Chris Nocco said in a press conference: 'Around 4:30 in the afternoon (Friday), our deputies observed Rory Atwood, we see him out there, he gives us permission to go back onto the property, which we start doing a more extensive search.

'We have human remain dogs, bloodhounds, aviation, deputies; because of the search, we're able to find human remains.

'This, along with several admissions, is what led to Rory Atwood being charged with first-degree homicide.'

Atwood told officers that he had evicted the family on June 1 when they failed to pay rent, and then they had come back unexpectedly on June 12.

Police discovered the remains when they searched Atwood's property with cadaver dogs

The family were last seen in the Nottingham Trl area of Hudson on June 12 around 12.30am

Atwood had been renting his place to the family and claimed the father had come into his bedroom with a knife and the two fought before all three of the adults struggled over a knife and a gun.

During the fight, he said the parents were shot multiple times.

The remains have not yet been formally identified, so Atwood has only been charged with one murder of a 'John Doe' at the time of publishing.

He has pleaded not guilty and is being held without bond.
Animal activists have launched a petition demanding that a Utah man be investigated over footage of him spraying a feral cat with a water hose as 'punishment'.

The man was seen holding a powerhouse while the undomesticated black cat was locked inside a wire cage in a widely circulating social media video.

He was heard saying, 'it's time he took his punishment' seconds before unleashing a spray of water on the trapped animal as they try to push the cage away.

According to the Ogden man, the black feline had been showing up at his house and attacking his own pet cat for six months.

A northern Utah man was seen holding a powerhouse while the undomesticated black cat was locked inside a wire cage in a widely circulating social media video

After the video went viral, cat lovers and activists launched a Change.org petition demanding that the man be investigated for animal abuse.

'His potential to inflict such terror and pain on a harmless creature is concerning and frightening,' it states.

'The fact that he video taped the abuse and posted about it on Facebook saying the cat "deserved punishment" is alarming. Especially since he has a young child and a pet at home (according his video).'

The petition creator also alleges that calls have been made to Weber County Sheriff's Office and Animal Services about the video but no action has been taken. They also state that it is unclear if the cat survived the attack and where it is now.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the Weber County Sheriff's Office for a comment.

The document has received 800 signatures out of its 1,000 goal.

Kendra Nilsen, who runs an animal rescue in northern Utah said that she was left horrified after watching the video

Kendra Nilsen, who runs an animal rescue in northern Utah, told ABC that she was left horrified after watching the video.

'If you can do that on video, what are you doing off video? What else is happening? What else is going on?

'Once you've crossed that line, what other line are you going to cross?

'I would love to see him prosecuted to the very fullest extent of the law for animal cruelty.

'It sets an example for other people who want to make a choice like that.'

According to Utah State legislature, 'a person is guilty of cruelty to an animal if the person, without legal privilege to do so, intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence injures an animal' and 'guilty of aggravated cruelty to an animal if the person tortures an animal'.
A retired US Army sergeant was caught on body camera footage calmly trying to negotiate with police as he refused their orders in the moments before he was killed in an officer-involved shooting.

Trae Spurlock, 26, repeatedly told police in Casper, Wyoming that he refused to go to jail for domestic assault after admitting that he pushed his girlfriend out the door on June 6.

He could be seen in the body camera footage released Monday repeatedly drinking and vaping as he tells the officers, 'I don't care, death by cop doesn't sound too bad.'

The situation eventually escalates when he apparently tried to reach for a rifle on a balcony behind him just a few minutes later, and cops hit him with a Taser and started firing seven shots.

He was struck six times, and died of his wounds, Cowboy State Daily reports.

Trae Spurlock, 26, was killed in an officer-involved shooting in Casper, Wyoming on June 6

He told cops he wasn't going to jail, and said it's 'either death by cop or not'

Police say they were first called to Spurlock's apartment at around 9.30pm for a report of a disturbance.

When officers arrived on the scene, they spoke with a woman who claimed she was the victim of domestic violence.

Officers then tried unsuccessfully to make contact with the suspect for five minutes, the Casper Police Department reports.

Then, when the victim asked for an escort back into the apartment so that she could grab some of her belongings, they find Spurlock shirtless and in pajama pants on the balcony - with a rifle just a few feet away.

'He's out here. He's got a rifle sitting next to him,' one of the cops could be heard reporting in the body camera footage.

At that point, Spurlock walks through the sliding glass door leading to the balcony. He stops in the doorway and starts confronting the officers on the scene.

'You're trespassing, so I could shoot you,' Spurlock says matter-of-factly.

Police first encountered Spurlock sitting on his balcony, shirtless with a rifle next to him

Throughout his encounter with police, Spurlock could be seen drinking and vaping

Spurlock could then be seen slamming the sliding glass door open even further as an officer tries to explain that they were just escorting his girlfriend.

'I don't care, death by cop doesn't sound too bad, but what do you want?' he replies.

The officers then ask what had transpired between him and his girlfriend, to which he replies: 'I told her to get the f*** out, so I pushed her out. She wouldn't f****** leave.'

Apparently taking this in, one of the officers then starts to ask Spurlock to step inside the apartment and get away from the rifle.

'It's behind me,' he points out.

'Yeah like three steps behind you,' the cop shoots back.

Spurlock then seems to get defensive, telling the officers on the scene, 'I'm not going to f****** jail tonight - either death by cop or not.

'I've been in plenty of firefights in my life. I'm not afraid of another one,' he continues.

'Point being is I'm not going to jail tonight, [I] refuse to. Take that as you will.'

Spurlock, a retired Army sergeant, repeatedly told police he refused to go to jail

Spurlock would go on to tell the officers that he can hit a target at 300 yards and 'that gun's three-foot behind me.

'He can grab his pistol, she can grab her pistol faster than I can grab that f****** gun. So you're not in any immediate danger now,' he tries to assure the cop, noting: 'If I wanted to shoot you, I [could have] picked all three of you from this f****** balcony.

'If I wanted to kill you guys, it already would've been f****** done before you walked out your f******* door. You'll be fine, calm down,' he tells the cops.

Spurlock eventually agrees to step inside the apartment if the cops moved backward, and said he would meet them halfway by closing the sliding glass door halfway.

But when the officer explains that his admission to pushing his girlfriend amounts to domestic assault and he would have to go to jail, Spurlock begins to talk about the process of being handcuffed and going to jail - repeating once again that he's not going to do that.

He told officers he has been involved 'in plenty of firefights' and is 'not afraid of another one'

The cop tries to reiterate that he wants to solve the situation peacefully and asks Spurlock to 'turn around for me and put your hands behind your back,' but Spurlock refused.

He would go on to refuse to step further inside the apartment - and instead put his arm behind his back to grab the handle of the now half-closed sliding glass door.

Seeing this, one of the officers on the scene could be heard warning him, 'You're going to get tased' as he bolted out the balcony door.

The cops then acted swiftly, deploying the Taser and firing seven gunshots as Spurlock fell to the ground.

Immediately after, one of the cops could be seen trying to administer first aid, as Spurlock lay curled up in a fetal position, moaning.

Spurlock was shot and Tased after he refused to step back into the apartment - and instead seemed to bolt toward his rifle

Spurlock leaves behind three children, the Buffalo Bulletin reports.

His friend Ryan Sweeney described him in the aftermath as a 'terrific human being.

'He's done a lot through his actions to show that, and he's always been servient to other people,' Sweeney said.

Police have not identified the officer that fired the fatal shots, but have said the cop has been placed on administrative leave as the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation and the Natrona County District Attorney's Office probes the shooting.
A doctor has won a lengthy legal battle to remain the main beneficiary of his wealthy patient's multi-million dollar estate.

Sydney GP Dr Peter Alexakis was locked in the dispute over the will with the Salvation Army and two friends of his patient Raymond John McClure, 84.

Mr McClure was a millionaire who had made his wealth by selling properties in the US before moving to Australia and becoming a patient of Dr Alexakis in 2015.

He changed his will twice to increase the amount left behind for his GP in the months before his death on November 21, 2017.

Some 90 per cent of his $24million estate, which includes a property in Strathfield in western Sydney, was allocated to Dr Alexakis.

Mr McClure's friends Frank Camilleri and Hildegard Schwanke joined the Salvation Army to challenge the will with the matter taken to the NSW Court of Appeal.

Court documents accused Dr Alexakis of using 'undue influence' over Mr McClure.

The court dismissed the matter in May and found Dr Alexakis was entitled to the estate and that he had not exercised 'undue influence'.

Sydney GP Dr Peter Alexakis (pictured) was locked in the dispute over the will with the Salvation Army and two friends of his patient Raymond John McClure, 84

The court heard Mr McClure had created a will in May 2016 which named the Salvation Army and Ms Schwanke as the beneficiaries.

Mr McClure then divided the ownership of his estate in a will in June 2017 and named Dr Alexakis as the main beneficiary, allocating him 65 per cent.

Mr Camilleri was allocated 25 per cent while Ms Schwanke was given five per cent.

Mr McClure was receiving treatment for diabetes, prostate cancer and renal failure at the time of the change.

The will was changed again a month later on July 10 to give Dr Alexakis a 90 per cent share of the estate.

Mr Camilleri had his entitlement reduced to nine per cent and Ms Schwanke to one per cent.

The Salvation Army was cut out altogether.

Mr McClure did not have a partner or any children to leave his estate to.

Raymond John McClure (pictured), 84,was a millionaire who had made his wealth by selling properties in the US before moving to Australia and becoming a patient of Dr Alexakis in 2015

Some 90 per cent of Mr McClure's $24million estate, which includes a property in Strathfield in western Sydney (pictured), was allocated to Dr Alexakis

He also became estranged from his brother who was his only sibling.

Mr McClure had been in and out of the hospital since June 2015, where he later returned home after discharging himself.

Dr Alexakis often visited Mr McClure who complained repeatedly that he didn't want to stay in hospital.

The NSW Court of Appeal found Alexakis did not know he was the sole beneficiary until after the patient died.
Stellantis is recalling nearly 1.2 million popular cars across the US and Canada to fix a software glitch that can disable the rearview cameras.

The recall covers Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer SUVs from the 2022 and 2023 model years.

Also included are Ram ProMaster vans from 2022 and 2023, as well as the Ram 3500 chassis cabs and Ram 1500 and 2500 pickups from 2022.

Also covered are 2021 through 2023 Chrysler Pacifica minivans and Jeep Grand Cherokee L SUVs, and 2021 and 2022 Dodge Durango SUVs.

A company investigation found that the vehicles have radio software that can inadvertently shut down the cameras.

Stellantis is recalling nearly 1.2 million vehicles in the US and Canada to fix a software glitch that can disable the rearview cameras

Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler, will fix the problem with an online software update that more than 735,000 vehicles have already received.

Owners should see a request to accept the update on their media screens. They also will get recall notices in the mail.

The company says it has no reports of injuries or crashes, but it still is urging owners to follow the recall instructions.

It is the company's 8th recall this month after more than 211,000 cars were recalled for disabled electronic stability control systems on June 6.

The company claimed the problem was caused by a defective anti-lock braking system, which sometimes deactivates the stability control system.

The impacted models were the 2022 Dodge Durango, and the 2022 Ram 2500 and 3500.

The Ram 2500 is the model with by far the most vehicles impacted. Nearly 158,000 of the 2500 pickups were recalled, while just over 500 Ram 3500s were affected.

Around 53,000 Durangos were recalled.

Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler, will fix the problem with an online software update that more than 735,000 vehicles have already received [CEO Carlos Tavares pictured]

The recall will impact more than 200,000 SUVs and pickups, whose owners will be notified next month

The system is an essential safety feature of the cars that, in emergency situations, can prevent the loss of steering capabilities if and when the driver loses control of the vehicle - as might be the case on flooded roads or in wintery conditions.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warned at the start of June that driving a car with a disabled or otherwise dysfunctional stability system could boost the chances of a collision.

According to a number of studies, electronic stability control systems, when working properly, reduce fatal crashes - especially single-car wrecks and rollover crashes.

For more than a decade, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has required all newly produced passenger vehicles to include an electronic stability system.
Tucker Carlson has claimed children in America are raised to believe Australia is a paradise - as the former Fox News host reveals his deepening fears about Joe Biden's health.

The political commentator, who is on a two-week tour Down Under, said that US citizens are 'born with this weird love of Australia'.

'I know this is all kind of pathetic to the ears of an Australian, but I can't overstate the degree to which every American child is told that Australia is Eden from birth,' Carlson told 2GB's Ben Fordham.

He added: 'It's by far the most popular country in the United States and I'm in my fifties and I've never seen it and I just jumped at the opportunity to come see it.'

Carlson, who is attending the Australian Freedom Conference on the invitation of mining billionaire Clive Palmer, also shared grave warnings about the 'chaotic' state of American politics.

Tucker Carlson (pictured with Donald Trump in 2022), who is on a two-week tour Down Under, said that U.S. citizens are 'born with this weird love of Australia'

The political commentator said children in America are raised to see Australia as a paradise (pictured: beachgoers in Sydney)

During the interview, he also accused President Joe Biden of being 'senile' and 'deep in dementia', amid a slew of troubling videos in which he appears to freeze or stumble over his words.

'I think it's very obvious to everyone outside of the United States,' Carlson said.

'It's rarely mentioned inside the United States, which is a really almost hallucinogenic experience to see something so obvious on television that no one will acknowledge.

'But I do think everyone in Australia knows it because we've seen all the videos here of Joe Biden looking lost and stumbling over his words.'

Carlson said he had known Biden for many years and liked and respected him.

'But the man I knew no longer exists, he's a completely different person, completely different and he, he's not there anymore,' he said.

He added: 'There may be many people in Australia who approve of Joe Biden's policies, but I don't think there's any honest person watching this from 8,000 miles away who can say that guy is in his right mind.

Carlson also accused current US President Joe Biden of being 'senile' and 'deep in dementia', amid a slew of troubling videos in which he appears to freeze or stumble over his words

'He's not, he's senile, he's not making the decisions of a commander-in-chief, those are being made by his staff and so it's not democracy.'

Carlson lamented the 'shocking' state of U.S. politics, warning its foreign policy risked World War Three.

'We're involved directly in two wars [Gaza and Ukraine], one of which could very easily become a nuclear war,' he said.

'And so there's never been a more perilous moment in the United States, including during the Civil War 150 years ago.

'We are very close to a nuclear exchange with Russia.'

Carlson lamented the 'shocking' state of US politics, warning its foreign policy risked World War Three with Russian despot Vladimir Putin (pictured, right)

The Australian Freedom Conferences with Tucker Carlson and Clive Palmer will visit Cairns, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne from June 21 to July 1, with tickets available through Ticketek.

In April, Carlson signalled that he would be discussing Australia's approach to the Covid-19 pandemic and the punitive lockdowns imposed by state governments.

'Ive admired Australia all my life and watched carefully from across the world as its government became authoritarian during the Covid insanity,' he said.

'I could hardly believe it. I still cant. I know many Australians feel the same way, and Im excited to meet them.'
Sir Keir Starmer was accused of 'not caring' about children with special educational needs yesterday by a headteacher who challenged him over his planned tax raid on private schools.

Michelle Catterson, head of Moon Hall School in Reigate, which caters for dyslexic children, warned that many of her pupils without education, health and care plans would be forced into the state sector.

She took Sir Keir to task during a radio phone-in on LBC yesterday over his proposals to charge independent schools 20 per cent VAT and scrap the 80 per cent relief they receive on business rates.

Labour has promised that children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) - who have the most severe needs and often have their fees paid by local councils if they cannot be taught in the state sector - would be exempt from the tax hike.

But thousands of pupils with special educational needs do not have an EHCP.

Sir Keir (pictured being interviewed on LBC's breakfast show) admitted that the exemption to VAT on school fees would only apply where there is 'a plan in place'

Michelle Catterson (pictured), head of Moon Hall School in Reigate, warned that many of her pupils without education, health and care plans would be forced into the state sector

Mrs Catterson said all of her pupils have a diagnosed special educational need, but 30 per cent do not have an EHCP and 'would be forced into the state sector, where we know their needs cannot be met'.

She said families 'send their children to my school out of necessity', and asked Sir Keir if he knew 'what the true impact of these plans could be on these vulnerable children'.

He said it was a 'tough choice' to scrap the 'VAT break on private schools', but necessary to pay for 6,500 new secondary school teachers.

'Money is tight, we don't have a magic wand and we have to fully cost and fully fund everything that we do,' he added.

LBC presenter Nick Ferrari pointed to research by the Independent Schools Council which found that 103,337 pupils at its schools have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities - but only 7,171 pupils have Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).

Sir Keir admitted that the exemption to VAT on school fees would only apply where there is 'a plan in place'.

Headteacher Mrs Catterson said it was 'blind ignorance' to push through the plan, and claimed: 'Labour does not care about SEN children.'

Keir Starmer arrives at Global Studios to take part in live phone-in with listeners of LBC's Nick Ferrari radio show ahead of general election

The Labour leader insisted 'we do care', adding: 'I want every single child, whether they go to private or state school, to have the same opportunities. It really matters to me.'

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho said Sir Keir's response was 'shocking', and said: 'Over 100,000 children in independent schools get SEND support without an EHCP.

'They would be taxed under Labour's plans. Labour has no answers for how these children's complex needs will be met.'

It comes after former chief inspector of Ofsted, Amanda Spielman, said this week that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities could find themselves priced out of specialist schools.

Meanwhile, shadow business secretary Jonathan Reynolds yesterday confirmed that there would not be an exemption to VAT on private school fees for military families who may rely on boarding schools.
The former justice secretary has called for anyone who received a criminal conviction for flouting Covid rules to have their 'slate wiped clean'.

Sir Robert Buckland has demanded that the 29,383 people who were charged for breaking Covid rules should be granted amnesty as it was an 'exceptional time'.

He added that he did not fair that those criminal charges could go on to hamper their professional lives, as they would not be able to work as a teacher, social worker or in the police force.

The idea has been supported by two former Cabinet ministers, Sir David Davis and Jacob Rees-Mogg, while it is understood that Alex Chalk, the current justice secretary is also sympathetic.

Sir Robert Buckland has demanded that the 29,383 people who were charged for breaking Covid rules should be granted amnesty as it was an 'exceptional time'

The idea has been supported by two former Cabinet ministers, Sir David Davis and Jacob Rees-Mogg , while it is understood that Alex Chalk (above), the current justice secretary is also sympathetic

This would mean that the fines paid by Boris Johnson , Rishi Sunak and Carrie Johnson in April 2022 for attending a birthday gathering for the PM in No 10 could also be wiped out

Sir Robert said: 'It is not proportionate or necessary at a time when we want to encourage and support as many people back to work as possible.

Poll Should people who have been fined for breaching Covid rules be let off? Yes No Should people who have been fined for breaching Covid rules be let off? Yes 367 votes

No 138 votes Now share your opinion





'If it is not being recorded in the usual way as a previous conviction, I would wipe the slate clean.'

Offences which are being examined include attending gatherings, leaving home during lockdowns and failing to wear face coverings.

This could mean that the fixed penalty notices issued to Boris Johnson, Rishi Sunak and Carrie Johnson in April 2022 for attending a birthday gathering for the PM in No 10 could also be wiped out.

Mr Johnson became the UK's first serving prime minister to be sanctioned for breaking the law.

And despite all three apologising, it would eventually lead to Mr Johnson being forced to resign as prime minister.

Sir David Davis claimed that all but the most egregious breaches should be 'obliterated' from the record

Ministry of Justice data shows the 29,000 fines of up to 10,000 issued by magistrates totalled 26 million

Offences which are being examined include attending gatherings, leaving home during lockdowns and failing to wear face coverings

Sir David Davis claimed that all but the most egregious breaches should be 'obliterated' from the record.

'Much of the Covid regulation was heavy handed, unnecessary and penalised people wrongly. For this to turn into a lifetime penalty is a shameful disgrace and we should correct it as soon as possible.'

These charges can also prevent you from travelling to countries such as America, as you are required to declare any criminal convictions when applying for visas to visit and they reserve the right to permanently ban anyone who fails to reveal one.

Agreeing with him Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, the former business secretary, called the Covid measures 'draconian', adding that with 'hindsight' they can be easily seen as unfair.

He said: 'It is time for an amnesty on Covid fines which were an unnecessarily draconian measure at the time but with hindsight look entirely disproportionate.'

Ministry of Justice data shows the 29,000 fines of up to 10,000 issued by magistrates totalled 26 million.

Almost 16,000 of those convictions were given to people under the age of 30.


Nalanda University new campus inauguration: Special day for education sector, says PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday will inaugurate the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir. PM Modi in a post on X said the day is special for the education sector as the new campus would be inaugurated and would cater to the educational needs of the youths.



He said, "Its a very special day for our education sector. At around 10:30 AM today, the new campus of the Nalanda University would be inaugurated at Rajgir. Nalanda has a strong connect with our glorious past. This university will surely go a long way in catering to the educational needs of the youth."



External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and ambassadors of 17 nations will attend the event. The university's new campus is close to the site of the ancient ruins of Nalanda.



Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar will also be present with the Prime Minister.



This will be PM Modi's first visit to Bihar after the Lok Sabha election.



Prime Minister Narendra Modi will plant a sapling of the Bodhi tree brought from Gaya.



During the Prime Minister's visit, tight security arrangements have been made.



PM Modi will arrive in Gaya by special plane and will reach Nalanda University by an Army helicopter.



The district police have barricaded both sides of the road from Rajgir to Nalanda for security purposes. All the hotels in the city have also been thoroughly checked.



Nalanda University Vice Chancellor Abhay Kumar Singh while describing the method adopted to build the university said careful techniques were adopted so that the new campus blended with the existing ancient structure.



He said that a pond was excavated for the construction work. Raw bricks were prepared from the soil obtained from the excavation which were not baked but prepared by compressing them after adding chemicals. Boring was not done for water in its construction work, rather the construction work was done by collecting rainwater in the pond that was specially dug for the purpose, said the Vice Chancellor.



"The world's largest library has also been built in this university. More than three lakh books and manuscripts will be kept there. Students from many countries are already receiving an education here," the V-C said.



Preparations for the arrival of the Prime Minister have been completed. PM Modi will plant a Mahabodhi sapling on the university campus before the inauguration. The arrangement for which has been done by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, he said.



The foundation stone of Nalanda University was laid in 2016. "After a special initiative of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, 455 acres of land were acquired in Rajgir and handed over to the university administration, Singh said.



Nalanda University has 24 large buildings constructed for Rs 1,749 crore.




The great nuclear debate can now begin in earnest. Only it won't be great. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has announced his plans to campaign for introducing nuclear power into Australia's energy mix at the next election.

There is so much to unpack surrounding what happens next: the political implications, the policy feasibility of 'going nuclear', what it means for energy prices and emissions reductions targets, as well as what the chances are of it ever happening.

Unfortunately, however, all we are going to get from here is a Seinfeld election campaign about nothing. Labor will focus in on the mother of all scare campaigns, which will be divorced from reality. And the Coalition, even if it can win the election on its big nuclear policy, won't be able to implement it anyway because of opposition across the states.

Australia is destined to lack the maturity to discuss the viability of nuclear energy free of partisan fights and ideological support or opposition towards the technology, irrespective of whether going nuclear is realistic or not.

So the central issue for the looming election campaign - nuclear vs renewables - which will likely dominate the next federal election will be a distraction from what the majority of Australians want to focus on: cost of living pressures, the challenges of immigration and housing, as well as how the economy can be reshaped to solve such problems.

Peter Dutton (pictured) is going all in on nuclear power as his solution to energy shortages and to achieve emissions reductions

Nonetheless, we need to explain why the nuclear debate is a red herring that will catch so much attention.

Lets start with the scare campaign Labor is about to ramp up, coupled with the Coalition's decision to put a massive policy target on its back.

The last two times an opposition set itself up to impose a massive policy shift if it wins an election was 1993 and 2019. John Hewson's Fightback campaign to introduce a GST and Bill Shorten's attempt to reform negative gearing and franking credits. Both men lost elections judged to be unloseable. Both policy agendas were targeted with brutal scare campaigns.

The lesson Dutton has decided to ignore is that campaigning on big reforms while in opposition is a recipe for failure.

We know scare campaigns work, not only because of these two historical examples but also because they have worked against incumbents too.

Political advertising executives will all tell you until they are blue in the face that negative campaigning is more successful than positive campaigning. Dutton needs to positively explain why his nuclear policy is a good idea, the Labor government only has to go negative and outline all the reasons it is bad policy.

The worst part of this reality if you're Dutton is that the scare campaign doesn't even have to be true. Just look at the 2016 Mediscare campaign Malcolm Turnbull was up against at the 2016 election.

Labor's claims at the time that Turnbull planned to 'abolish Medicare' were completely untrue and unachievable even if he'd wanted to do it. But that didn't stop Labor campaigning on the issue and voters being frightened.

Turnbull won but only just. The closeness of the election result ended his prime ministership soon enough.

The degree of difficulty repelling a scare campaign is that much harder in opposition. So why did Dutton embark on the course that he has?

Nuclear technology has come a long way, but at the moment there is a ban on introducing it in Australia and the state's would need to get on board to change that

He can't let the Nationals go off on a campaign arguing against renewables without some sort of alternative to help bring down emissions. Nuclear gives him that. He ideologically believes the state based bans all around the country, as well as nationally, is silly policy, which he's right about. It's policy retrofitted to a 1970s attitude about nuclear power.

Dutton also knows that the last (and only) serious independent study analysing nuclear power's viability was handed down back in 2006. It found that yes it is viable, but only if steps to implement the policy shift happen right away.

That never happened.

So if you're energy agnostic, as I am, and pro a technology neutral approach to emissions reductions, as I also am, the problem with going nuclear is that Australia may have left its run too late. But we don't know that because we need an up-to-date independent study.

The problem with Dutton announcing his intention to go nuclear the way that he has is that he really shouldn't be doing so without a proper feasibility study independently and rigorously carried out. What he has commissioned doesn't amount to that level of detailed analysis. You need to be in government first to do that.

The Labor government won't do it, and for some reason Dutton wants to do more than commit to doing such a study if he wins the next election. Probably because he wants to say he has a tangible solution to energy needs and emissions reductions, not just a thought bubble of doing a study before making a decision.

Dutton might also be worried that without details, Labor's scare campaign could go off in any number of directions he hopes today's details will counter. But the scare campaign will do all of that anyway, because as already noted, political scare campaigns aren't rooted in fact.

An election about nothing on nuclear power is on the cards, just like the Seinfeld show 'about nothing'

Everything from protestors in hazmat suits to images of the Simpsons and the leaky unsafe nuclear reactor that their town of Springwood depended on will come up during the campaign.

Labor will argue that reactors might pop up all over the country, not just in the electorates the Coalition nominates. It will point to international reactor failures, even if the technologies have advanced since then and Australia's topography is very different.

Then we have the final issue which is the reason this whole debate that is about to start in earnest is a waste of time. A campaign about nothing.

The state's won't approve the policy and the senate probably won't approve the legislation before we even get to the states.

The Greens look set to control the Senate's balance of power after the next election and they are utterly opposed to going nuclear.

If state governments stand by their nuclear bans there isn't much the Commonwealth can do to get around that. And state premiers and even Coalition opposition leaders are already lining up to say there is no way they will lift nuclear bans. It might become a constitutional fight.

This policy is dead on arrival.

The good news in this should be that the states might be saving Dutton from himself politically, but the dye has been cast already. Even though the fact there is virtually no chance of Dutton's nuclear policy going live - because of the hurdles he has to overcome but can't - should reduce the potency of a Labor scare campaign, it probably won't.

Because Dutton won't want to accept that he can't get this policy past the states, and it suits the Labor government to pretend that he might to service the potency of its scare campaign.

At his media conference Dutton noted that Paul Keating once said that it is dangerous to get between a Premier and a bag full of money, suggesting that he can win the states over by bribing them with handouts.

But it would need to be so much money (or arm twisting via denying Commonwealth grants) that the sheer quantum of what would be required might bankrupt the federal treasury. I can't even reach a lofty financial figure that, in my mind, might get them on board. Politically it also dangerously opens Dutton up to attacks that he is a risky fiscal option to support. Given that is a problem for Labor right now, Dutton risks turning the economic debate around if he keeps suggesting he'll just buy the premiers off.

Political scare campaigns work, and Anthony Albanese (pictured) is about to unleash the mother of all scare campaigns against Dutton's nuclear policy

So here we are as a nation: in need of nuclear but long before now. Unable to overcome the barriers to its consideration, much less implementation.

Labor strategists are utterly convinced their scare campaign against Dutton's nuclear policy will work and at the same time, fix their current political problems.

Coalition strategists are divided as to whether 'going nuclear' will work or not. Some believe they are writing their own political death warrant and never should have gone down this path because the Labor government is teetering on the edge of political oblivion. It wasn't when Dutton first flagged going nuclear.

Others say modern Australia is ready for this debate and an old fashion scare campaign won't work. We will soon find out.

No first term government has defeated a first term opposition since 1931, and that election was fought in the midst of The Great Depression. Winning in the circumstances the Coalition is in now was already going to be hard, but the degree of difficulty just went up courtesy of today's policy announcement.

Irrespective of whether going nuclear is good, and irrespective of the failures of this incompetent Labor administration.

Okay, so even though this nuclear debate is ultimately about nothing for the reasons explained, on the assumption anyone has read this far and wants to weigh up the policy pros and cons of going nuclear anyway, to conclude, here they are.

The pros include that nuclear power helps achieve emissions reductions. They are comparable to renewables in this respect but with base load power renewables currently can't achieve. In theory phasing out coal fired power and introducing nuclear could make a lot of sense.

Nuclear power when viable is highly efficient, isn't weather dependent and can operate around the clock. Australia's safe climate and topography makes us ideally suited to housing nuclear reactors.

High quality regulatory systems and environmental standards would help ensure safety standards prevent problems. As a well developed nation, we also have the technological capacity to provide the workforces that nuclear reactors require.

And Australia has one of the world's largest supplies of yellowcake, the ingredient which fuels nuclear energy.

The cons are that Australia may have left its run too late, damaging the business case of going nuclear. Even smaller reactors might take more than a decade to build, by which time other technologies have filled the gap they were designed to fill. Turning newly built nuclear power plants into expensive white elephants.

Building such controversial technology across political cycles is also a risk. And of course the risk of disasters like those we have seen overseas is always present when nuclear technology is embraced, despite Australia's natural advantages.

And with that, let the next round of the climate wars begin!
New York's most provocative restaurateur has finally spilled the beans on the celebrity whose identity was censored by Instagram after he offered the 'raw truth' about them.

Keith McNally of Balthazar was inundated with guesses after offering a free dinner to anyone naming the person he had singled out in a post that was immediately deleted for 'violent or graphic content'.

Hundreds responded to the prospect of dinner-for-two at his Parisian-style brasserie but many were at a loss to know where to start given his history of scathing remarks about everyone from James Corden to Lauren Sanchez.

'Judging by the amount of individuals you have fallen out with, this bet has worse odds than the Euro lottery,' wrote one.

But the British-born restaurant owner wrong-footed everyone on Tuesday night when he revealed the person in question was actually 'my good friend, the writer and television star Padma Lakshmi'.

Keith McNally was inundated with guesses after offering a free dinner to anyone naming the person he had singled out in a post later deleted for 'violent or graphic content'

'I posted a photo of Padma which exposed one of her beautiful breasts and the Instagram authorities deleted it,' he explained.

'The post was completely in praise of Padma. ('The raw truth about the ultra intelligent Padma Lakshmi') he added.

'Most of you automatically thought I was denigrating the person in the deleted post. But why???'

His 123,000 Instagram followers may have had in mind his torrent of abuse against Sanchez, wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who he called 'absolutely revolting' in an April post.

'What an ugly and F***ing SMUG - LOOKING couple they make,' he added. 'Is this what having 1000 Billion dollars does to people?'

Days later he rowed back on his criticism admitting they looked 'like a million dollars' as the couple appeared at the Met Gala.

McNally went on to say that he received 'unfunny and weird' comments from other billionaires' wives, before narrowing it down on Jessica Seinfeld.

'The Unfunniest was from the wife of comedian Jerry Seinfeld (whom I adore) - Jessica Seinfeld. Seinfeld must have been embarrassed by her comment because she quickly deleted it.'

He then shared part of Jessica Seinfeld's response, which read: 'THIS POST IS A REFLECTION OF YOUR TWISTED, PITIFUL, AND HIDEOUS MIND. LAUREN HAS TWICE THE CHARACTER YOU DO.'

McNally revealed that his original Instagram post was actually removed because it pictured too much of Padma Lakshi's breast, and not because it was violent or threatening

The Balthazar owner slammed Lauren Sanchez and her husband, the Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, as an 'ugly and F***ing SMUG - LOOKING couple' in one April post

McNally went on to say that he received 'unfunny and weird' comments from other billionaires' wives, before narrowing it down on Jessica Seinfeld

He famously fell out with fellow Brit James Corden describing him as a 'hugely gifted comedian but a tiny cretin of a man' after the former Late Late Show host reportedly insulted his staff.

He defended Jeffrey Epstein's collaborator Ghislane Maxwell and compared Woody Allen to Emmett Till, the black 15-year-old who was murdered in a racist Mississippi lynching in 1955.

'This morning Instagram's authorities deleted my last post because it contained 'graphic or violent content',' he fumed on Monday.

'How Ridiculous! I simply wrote the raw truth about someone.

'If anybody can guess the name of the person in my post he or she will win a free dinner for two at Balthazar.

'Clue: It's not Graydon Carter,' he added, namechecking the former Vanity Fair editor and fellow restaurant owner he fell out with in 2021 after a late-cancelled booking.

'I've never been this disappointed to have missed a social media post ever,' replied one of his 123,000 Instagram followers as the guesses began flooding in .

'I'm so bummed that I missed it! Anyone have a snapshot to share?? Pretty please?' added another.

Corden, Sanchez and Seinfeld were among the early guesses before McNally narrowed it down by revealing the person was a woman, and upped his offer to include flights to New York.

Susan Sarandon, Marjorie Taylor Greene, Kim Kardashian and Meghan Markle were suggested along with Kate Middleton and the late Mother Theresa.

'Melanie Trump? Am desperate for the resolve at this point,' wrote one.

'Who is Hillary Clinton final answer!' added another.

McNally's Parisian-style brasserie has become a favorite celebrity hang-out despite its owner's caustic reputation, but now faces a crackdown after pests were found on the premises

The restaurant owner finally cleared up the mystery on Tuesday night, revealing that 'not one of the thousand comments guessed it was Padma!'

'However, I still plan to offer a free dinner for two,' he added.

'But it's going to the person whose suggestion made me laugh the most. It's therefore between these four: Mother Teresa, Richard Nixon, Patricia Routledge, and Taylor Mead. I'll announce the winner tomorrow.'

And the Indian-born actress who is married to author Salman Rushdie seemed equally thrown off by McNally's cryptic posts.

'Oh my!!! I had no idea!' she wrote in response.
A cafe worker who made a video of himself masturbating to child abuse material to satisfy a humiliation fetish has been slammed by a judge for his deplorable behaviour.

Stephen Corbett, 37, from Sydney, was arrested on February 1 last year following a tip-off to police that he was in possession of child abuse material.

He was sentenced on Wednesday to a 12-month corrections order and placed on the child sex offenders list.

According to police facts previously obtained by Daily Mail Australia, Corbett was in a master-and-slave BDSM relationship with a young Filipino man, called James.

James, who played the role of master, sent a video of Corbett masturbating to child abuse material to one of the hospitality worker's friends to satisfy his slave's humiliation fetish. The friend then informed police.

Corbett initially pleaded not guilty in March 2023 but later admitted his guilt.

During his sentencing hearing in Waverley Local Court on Wednesday, Magistrate Michael Barko blasted Corbett for his role in perpetuating the heinous child-sex trafficking trade running rampant in impoverished countries.

The video featured Corbett (pictured) committing a sex act while watching the exploitation material

'This has to stop. This behaviour has to stop. And it won't if people overseas in these countries are communicating with people over here and sending child abuse material,' Magistrate Barko said.

'It is the most serious offence.

'I commend the person for coming forward to police, who acted expeditiously. And if they hadn't, who knows how much further the behaviour may have gone.'

Dressed in a grey suit, Corbett sat alone, slouched over, in the front pew of the court listening to the proceedings, while his parents were seated a couple of rows behind him.

Clasping his hands together neatly in his lap, he gazed stoically at the front of the court room.

Addressing Magistrate Barko, Corbett's lawyer argued the offence was at the lower end of seriousness because it was a 'once off' and that the idea to make the video came from the 37-year-old's 'master'.

Corbett has pleaded guilty to one count of possessing child abuse material

'Generally in these cases, police find a treasure trove in the hundreds or thousands of child abuse material [when they raid offenders homes],' he told the court.

'The one video was a prop in a domination fetish. The fact it was child abuse material was ancillary to the other fetish.'

Corbett's lawyer said that sentencing should take into consideration that it was his first offence and he has been on 'onerous bail conditions' since his arrest, which included living with his parents, reporting to police twice weekly, and not accessing the internet.

The lawyer further argued that Corbett was suffering from undiagnosed bipolar disorder at the time, which features 'hypersexuality' as a symptom.

'He's been seeking help for depression since 2013, but was only diagnosed with bipolar after his arrest,' his lawyer told the court.

'The doctor stated his hyper manic episodes were quite severe at the time of offending. The doctor found a connection between the disorder and his conduct. There is an imbalance of brain chemicals, which causes cognitive difficulties in relation to reasoning and behaviour.

'One symptom is hyper sexuality. He has been seeking treatment for this condition.

'My submission your honour that a sentence has to be crafted for the good of this offender and the public.'

Magistrate Barko noted that he had previously rejected a bid by Corbett to have the matter dealt with under the mental health act, because he believes all people who commit child sex offences must be disordered and sentencing should apply to the 'objective seriousness' of the crime.

Corbett is pictured leaving court with his lawyer in March 2023

Stephen Corbett (pictured left) was arrested when a friend dobbed him into police after receiving a seedy home-made video showing child abuse material on his laptop screen

'Anyone who deals with child abuse material must have mental issue.. It's [the behaviour] not on the straight and narrow. It deals with the sexual abuse of children overseas,' he said.

'I can understand hyper sexuality between adults, but I dont understand it between adults and children.'

Magistrate Barko accepted that Corbett was entitled to reduced sentencing because of his guilty plea, noted that he was intoxicated at the time, and that a doctor's report listed him at low risk of reoffending.

However, while taking into consideration the mental health arguments, Magistrate Barko said he was of the view there was no other suitable punishment other than some form of imprisonment.

He sentenced Corbett to 12 months to be served by way of intensive correction in the community, under a supervision plan imposed by the Community Corrections office.

Under the sentence, Corbett will be added to the national child protection register as a convicted child sex offender.

During the proceedings, members of the public gathering could be seen shaking their heads in disgust as Magistrate Barko detailed the offence.

Corbett has since made an appeal against his conviction, which is scheduled to be heard in the District Court on 15 August.
Distressing body camera footage caught the moment an Ohio cop slammed a black teenager's head into the sidewalk, leaving him bloodied, for a simple traffic violation.

The footage released by the Columbus Police Department also shows Officer Donovan Bever grabbing the 14-year-old by the hair and dragging him by his dreadlocks into his patrol vehicle on February 19.

Throughout the video, the teenager could be heard pleading with Bever, telling him 'I'm sorry' and 'I'm complying.'

He was left with a bloodied nose, and the ground underneath him was splattered with his blood.

Bever was suspended within hours of the incident, and he was finally fired from the police force on June 10.

A Columbus police officer was fired after body camera footage showed him slamming a black teenager's head into the sidewalk

Police say the violent arrest started when Bever and his partner saw a group of teenagers loitering in the street at a crosswalk near an apartment complex at around 4pm on February 19.

The cops drove up to the teenagers and said, 'Let's chat,' prompting the teens to run off, according to the Columbus Dispatch.

The unidentified partner then got out of the patrol vehicle and chased the teenage boys on foot, while Bever drove around in pursuit.

The other cop eventually caught up with two of the teenagers, pulled out his gun and raised it at the boys while ordering them to get on the ground.

'Get on the ground or I'll f****** shoot you,' the cop told the teens, NBC 4 reports.

Both teens obeyed his orders, and were on the ground by the time Bever's body camera showed him pull up to the residential neighborhood where the boys were detained.

Officer Donovan Bever ran up to where his partner had detained two suspects on February 19 with his gun drawn

Body camera footage shows him grabbing a 14 year old by the hair and slamming his face into the ground

He was seen running toward the scene with his gun drawn - and even though the boys were already on the ground, Bever ran up to one, bent down, grabbed his hair and slammed his face to the ground.

The teen could be seen groaning in pain as Bever cuffs him while holding him by the hair, and tells the cop: 'Ow, you hit my face.'

'I'm bleeding, ow my face,' he repeats again, as Bever starts rifling though his pockets.

The teen is already visibly bleeding from his mouth as Bever pulls out a phone charger and another unidentified item from the kid's pants, and throws it at the boy's face.

Police say he also struck the teen in the groin.

Bever then grabbed the teen by his dreadlocks as he marched him toward his patrol car

Throughout the arrest, the teen tries to tell the officer that he's complying, and 'I won't do it again.'

When Bever finally asks the teen if he is alright, he says he is but asks the cop to not do that again 'because that f****** hurt.'

'And for what bro? It wasn't that serious,' the teen says.

At that point, Bever could be seen grabbing the teenager by his dreadlocks as he marched him toward his patrol car, telling the boy he is not going to let him get away again.

He then proceeded to ask the boy, 'You got AIDS?' NBC 4 reports.

Once safely in the transport vehicle, the teenager asked for a different officer - saying he didn't trust Bever.

Bever has faced three citizen complaints during his time on the force

Within hours of the arrest, Bever was placed on administrative leave. Public Safety Director Kate Pishotti then fired him on June 10.

'Our community deserves better and that 14-year-old deserved better,' she said.

Police Chief Elaine Bryant also criticized the officers' actions, saying neither had a reason to draw weapons or use force.

She suggested they should have instead pulled over their vehicle and politely spoken to the boys about pedestrian laws.

'I was angry, disappointed, upset,' she told the Dispatch of seeing the body camera footage.

'This is not what we reflect as Columbus Division of Police. The majority of our officers have great relationships with our community.'

She also said the department spoke with the 14 year old's grandmother - his legal guardian - immediately after the incident.

'They were disappointed by the actions of the officer, but they were relieved and happy with the swift action that the department and the director of public safety took in addressing the issue.'

But this is not the first time Bever has been reprimanded for his actions.

He has faced three citizen complaints during his time on the force - two of which reported harassment and use of profanity or rude language.

His former supervisor once also warned him about his language, and in November 2021, Bever violated the department's policy by 'continually swearing at the arrestee while taking him into custody,' the Dispatch reports.

Then, during an April 2022 performance review, Bever was given 'constructive feedback' about his interactions with the public, and the department arranged for him to be retrained in de-escalation tactics and verbal confrontation.

It is unclear whether Bever's partner will also be reprimanded.

DailyMail.com has reached out to the Columbus police for more information.
Entrepreneur Dick Smith is backing Peter Dutton's plan to build the first of seven nuclear reactors in little more than a decade - describing it as good leadership.

The 80-year-old philanthropist and adventurer has likened the Opposition Leader's plan to have nuclear power in Australia by 2035 to former Liberal prime minister John Howard's successful re-election campaign for the GST in 1998.

'I've never used the word risk at all, I think it's just leadership,' he told Daily Mail Australia from the remote Birdsville Track in South Australia.

'It will be like John Howard's successful GST entry, that's what I compare it with and that's why I think Peter Dutton is showing showing some really good leadership.'

The Liberal Party leader is proposing to have Australia's first nuclear reactor by 2035 with a second one operating by 2037, and has announced seven possible sites in every mainland state.

Mr Smith predicted the ALP federally and at state level would come around to backing nuclear power - arguing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese now supported nuclear-powered submarines as part of the AUKUS deal.

Entrepreneur Dick Smith (pictured left with wife Pip) is backing Peter Dutton's plan to build seven nuclear reactors in little more than a decade - describing it as good leadership

Tarong and Callide in Queensland, Liddell and Mount Piper in NSW, Port Augusta in South Australia, Loy Yang in Victoria, and Muja in Western Australia have been flagged as the locations for the stations

'I think Labor will come on side. I'm absolutely sure they will, just as they came on side with the nuclear submarines,' Mr Smith said.

'It will be identical in the end with nuclear power - it is the only way you can go forward.'

Tarong and Callide in Queensland, Liddell and Mount Piper in NSW, Port Augusta in South Australia, Loy Yang in Victoria, and Muja in Western Australia have been flagged as the locations for the stations.

Labor state governments in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria have laws blocking nuclear power, but Mr Smith predicts they will end up legislating to overturn these bans as they realise renewable energy is unreliable.

'They will be convinced because there is simply no alternative,' Mr Smith said.

'We will have blackouts - you can't run a country on intermittent solar and wind; it is impossible.

'I understand every state has a ban on nuclear power, as well we have a federal ban on nuclear power, so those bans will have to be lifted.

'We're one of the largest sellers of uranium in the world but we have legislation stating you can't even consider it and that is completely ridiculous.

'We'll have to change legislation in each state and federal.'

Mr Smith said that while it made sense to convert coal-fired power stations into nuclear reactors, it could take longer to establish a nuclear power industry.

'I think it could take 10 to 15 years,' he said.

'Without doubt, the best thing to do is to put the nuclear power stations where the existing coal power stations are - in effect, all we're doing is instead of generating power by burning coal to heat water, we're going to use uranium to heat water.

'You will need far less extra powerlines if we go to nuclear power.'

The 80-year-old philanthropist and adventurer has likened the federal Opposition Leader's (pictured) plan to have nuclear power in Australia by 2037 to former Liberal prime minister John Howard's successful re-election campaign for the GST in 1998

The United Arab Emirates established a nuclear reactor at Barakah in 2020 after eight years of construction work using South Korean technology.

Mr Dutton on Wednesday tweeted an image of a Rolls-Royce small nuclear reactor concept.

But no country in the world has yet operated small modular reactors that produce 300 megawatts, or 300million watts of power.

Canada is not expected to have this technology until the late 2020s, when Ontario's state-run power company installs a reactor designed by General Electric and Hitachi.

Mr Smith said larger-scale reactors were probably more likely.

'I'm not suggesting that we're going to have small modular reactors - my suggestion would be we just follow something like the Barakah one in the United Arab Emirates, get the South Koreans to build it, they're experts,' he said.

Labor and the Greens want Australia to source 82 per cent of its energy from renewables by 2030 but Mr Smith predicted there would be more community opposition to wind turbines.

'I think you'll find the majority of the population is sensible in this country and will become vocal supporters of nuclear - we don't want this incredible destruction of the environment that's happening because of these wind factory farms.

Mr Dutton on Wednesday tweeted an image of a Rolls-Royce small nuclear reactor concept. But no country in the world has yet operated small modular reactors that produce 300 megawatts, or 300million watts of power

'A nuclear power station means probably 2,000 less wind turbines so all of those people will be supporting nuclear.

'The wind farms are intermittent and unpredictable so you could never run a country, especially now that Anthony Albanese is saying that we are going to industrialise more and make things like solar cells. You need an incredible lot of energy and that's impossible without nuclear power.'

Australia banned nuclear power in 1998 after the Howard government agreed to a Greens amendment to get support for a new research reactor for nuclear medicine at Lucas Heights in Sydney's south.

When it came to storing nuclear waste, Mr Smith suggested Olympic Dam in South Australia, which is also a known deposit for uranium.

'I've been down in the mine at Olympic Dam - there's huge, great cavities where we took uranium out, that's where we should store the waste,' he said.

Mr Smith was unsure if Mr Dutton would win the next election with a nuclear power policy.

'I don't know that - I think he'll make a good prime minister,' he said.

'I think we have a good prime minister now and I'm hoping, before the next election, that Labor will change its view and support nuclear power.'

Both sides of politics are committed to a net zero by 2050 climate goal.
Cops went to the address following a lead

A man is fighting for life after he was shot in the stomach by police in Queensland.

Cops attended the residence in Caboolture, north of Brisbane, about 10.30am on Wednesday on a 'wanted person inquiry'.

When they arrived there were a number of people at the property including a 46-year-old man armed with a knife.

Audio from the CCTV of a neighbour's house captured the dramatic stand-off which lasted about 20 seconds.

'Police, don't move,' one officer said.

Officers instruct the man to stand up before one of them yelled 'he's got a knife'.

'Police, drop the knife, drop the knife,' an officer said.

One officer then discharged a single shot from their weapon, injuring the knife-wielding man in the abdomen.

Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics rushed the man to Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in a critical condition.

Police gather outside the property where a knife-wielding man was shot on Wednesday

The area has been cordoned off as a police investigation remains ongoing

Moreton District Detective Inspector Joe Zitny said police were following a lead regarding a 'wanted person'.

'As a result of them attending that address an altercation took place between a male occupant and the police,' he said.

'This resulted in a police firearm being presented and discharged. As a result a 46-year-old male has sustained an injury.'

The man remains in hospital and police have not said what the 'wanted person inquiry' was about.

The house appears to be in a recent residential subdivision with a childcare centre a short distance away.

Detectives have cordoned off a crime scene which is expected to remain until Wednesday night.

Police Ethical Standards Command are investigating the discharge of the police weapon.
EXCLUSIVE

A TikTok star has been charged after allegedly bashing his influencer girlfriend on the night she attended a lavish boat party.

Tara Eslami, also known as 'Tara Eve', flew from Melbourne to Sydney over the weekend to attend an extravagant birthday bash for her friend and fellow influencer Alia Elhassan.

Several well-known TikTok stars attended the party on Saturday, including Alia's sister Jenny Elhassan and Evelyn Ellis, who boasts more than 224,200 followers.

Videos posted online show the group cruising around the city in luxury cars, dancing on a yacht while sipping champagne, then heading to a room at the Crown hotel.

But behind the scenes, the opulent weekend was marred by drama after Ms Eslami's TikTok power-user boyfriend Rabih Houchar was arrested on Sunday night.

Tara Eslami, aka Tara Eve, was allegedly assaulted on Sunday night by her TikTok star boyfriend

Rabih Houchar (pictured), who goes by @Dior_onma_body online, was arrested on Sussex Street but has pleaded not guilty

Police will allege Houchar - known as @Dior_onma_body to his 16,800 followers - assaulted Ms Eslami on Sunday night in the city's CBD.

He has also been charged with allegedly stalking or intimidating Ms Eslami as well as breaking her phone.

A NSW Police spokesperson said officers were called to an address in Sussex Street about 7.30pm after reports of a concern for welfare.

'A 26-year-old man was arrested and taken to Day Street Police Station where he was charged,' the spokesperson said.

Houchar was remanded in custody and appeared in Sydney Downing Centre Local Court on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty to all three offences.

An apprehended violence order has also been taken out on Ms Eslami's behalf and police have made a court application to carry out a forensic procedure in relation to Houchar.

Houchar, who is originally from Guildford in Sydney's west, went viral in 2021 after sharing a clip about how he had changed his life after spending time in jail.

Ms Eslami, who is from Melbourne, was in Sydney attending her friend Alia Elhassan's birthday party. She is pictured (right) alongside Jenny Elhassan

Influencer Evelyn Ellis could be seen banging on a drum on a yacht in a video from the party

'Don't miss being in green,' he wrote alongside the clip, which showed him walking out of a correctional centre. The video racked up more than 1.2 million views.

Meanwhile, Ms Eslami has a combined following of more than 17,000 people across Instagram and TikTok, where she shares videos off her lavish lifestyle - enjoying overseas holidays, attending plush events and posing for photo shoots.

Just six days ago, she shared a cryptic post about relationships alongside a video of herself crying.

Daily Mail Australia understands Saturday night's party was organised by Jenny Elhassan, who has about 83,000 fans on TikTok.

Jenny made headlines in April 2022 when she was the alleged victim of an acid attack after three masked men threw a 'corrosive substance' on her face outside of a restaurant.

Her sister Alia was formerly married to convicted drug smuggler Steven Elmir, once regarded as one of Sydney's most feared underworld figures.

'Happy birthday to my baby sister,' Jenny wrote on TikTok on Monday, alongside a video of the party.

'Big shoutout to @RUTHLESS for the hook-up with the cars, the yacht, the dancers, the security and the drivers. They made this day possible.'

Houchar was refused bail in court on Monday. He is next due to appear in court on November 29.
EXCLUSIVE

A mother who suffered critical injuries in a horror car crash that claimed the lives of her husband and two children has awoken in hospital - as her devastated son slams reports the vehicle was struck while reversing on an 80km/h road.

Krystal and Phil Harris left their Jandowae home with their daughter, Ocean, 15, and son Warrior, eight, on Monday morning to travel to nearby Dalby, in Queensland's Western Downs region.

It was a routine drive the family made regularly - but tragedy struck at about 10.50am when their Nissan Terrano was allegedly hit from behind by a Landcruiser ute on Dalby-Jandowae Road at Jimbour East.

Phil, 54, and the two children died at the scene while Ms Harris, 46, was airlifted to Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital in a critical condition with chest, abdominal and arm injuries.

A family friend told Daily Mail Australia Ms Harris woke up from a coma on Tuesday and is due to undergo back surgery.

Krystal Harris (pictured) is the sole survivor of a horror crash in Jimbour East, in Queensland's Western Downs region

The friend said Ms Harris was conscious at the scene of the crash and is aware her husband and two children did not survive.

The friend, who hopes to visit Ms Harris on Wednesday, said the crash has been a 'nightmare' for the family and coming to terms with the tragedy has 'not been easy'.

Meanwhile, Ms Harris' son Storm Reddacliff, 25, has taken to social media to slam reports the family was reversing at the time of the crash.

According to the Courier Mail, sources close to the investigation claim Mr Harris was behind the wheel of the Nissan and reversing down the road to help a Western Downs Regional Council worker when the car was struck.

However, Mr Reddacliff said that was not the case.

'The ute [allegedly] rammed the car, killing them. There was no reversing,' he wrote.

The tragedy has rocked the tight-knit Jandowae community, which is home to about 1,000 people, with publican Red Clark describing the family as 'very polite' and Ocean and Warrior as 'good kids'.

The accident claimed the lives of her husband Phil (left) and children Ocean and Warrior (pictured centre)

The family friend told Daily Mail Australia Phil was a stay-at-home dad after suffering injuries that drove him out of the workforce.

Daily Mail Australia understands Ocean, who also went by the name Daisy, lived with autism. She and her brother had several older siblings, who have been rallying to support their mother while she is in hospital.

Mr Reddacliff has remembered his lost loved ones as 'shining lights' and has set up a GoFundMe to help his mother with funeral costs.

'In memory of my beloved family, who tragically passed away in a car accident on Jimbour east road from Jandowae, I humbly ask for your support,' Mr Reddacliff wrote on social media.

'Your donation will help cover funeral expenses and support my well-being during this difficult time. Any contribution, big or small, will be deeply appreciated.

'My family was a shining light in my life, and their loss has left a profound impact on me.

'Your kindness and generosity will help me navigate this challenging period and honour their memory.'

A family friend told Daily Mail Australia the Harrises regularly travelled to Dalby, where they were heading on Monday when tragedy struck (pictured: the aftermath of the crash)

Forensic crash investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash on the rural road.

The ute driver suffered non-life threatening injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Dalby Patrol Group Inspector Greg Wheeler described the crash scene as 'horrific' and urged motorists to take care behind the wheel.

'It was a bright, sunny day and the crash was on a sealed, straight road,' he said.

'With the school holidays coming up, this tragic accident is a timely reminder for us to all take responsibility, drive to the conditions and ensure we take extra care with the extra traffic we will see on our roads.

'All we can say is plan your trip, plan to get home safe, look after your loved ones and other road users and be sure you are well and truly aware of what you are doing at all times.'
An outraged Anthony Albanese has slammed anti-Semitic vandals targeting MPs' workplaces, after a Jewish politician's office was attacked overnight in Melbourne.

Windows were smashed and the front of federal Labor MP Josh Burns' St Kilda electoral office was set on fire, in what he called a 'politically motivated attack'.

The walls of the building were daubed in red paint and graffitied with a slogan reading 'Zionism is fascism'. Zionism refers to the ideology that Jews deserve their own state in their ancestral homeland of Israel.

Mr Albanese said the attack was 'very distressing' and those responsible for it must be held accountable for their criminal actions.

'This is an escalation of the attacks that we've seen. We've been talking about this. We've got to dial this down,' he told ABC Radio.

An outraged Anthony Albanese (pictured) has slammed vandals who are targeting MP's workplaces, after a Jewish politician's office was attacked overnight in Melbourne

The walls of the building were daubed in red paint and graffitied with an anti-Semitic slogan reading 'Zionism is fascism' (pictured). Zionism refers to the ideology that Jews deserve their own state in their ancestral homeland of Israel

'For some people, they feel very strongly about issues in the Middle East. But it's no reason to target MPs half a world away in Australia, and in particular the targeting of a Jewish MP is very distressing.'

At least five people were seen near the office on Barkly Street in St Kilda at about 3.20am on Wednesday, police were told.

Investigators said small fires were lit in the telecommunications pits at the front of the building before the group ran from the scene.

Mr Burns has been targeted in the past by vandals defacing his election posters.

Police shut down Barkly Street in both directions after the attack.

In a statement posted to social media, Mr Burns said his office was damaged in a 'politically motivated attack'.

'I've been in contact with the Federal Police and am awaiting further advice,' he said.

'My team won't be at the office this morning, or until we're told it is safe to do so, but we're still here to help our community and can be contacted by email.

'I understand those who have seen images or vision of the attack might find it distressing.'

Mr Albanese said the attack is a distressing escalation that needs to be dialled back down.

'This has got to be seen as an attack on someone who's a Jewish MP, someone who is running an office that looks after people's interests,' he said.

'How people think that they advance their cause through activities like this is beyond me. It does nothing. It undermines the cause that people purport to represent.'

Windows were smashed and the front of federal Labor MP Josh Burns' (pictured) St Kilda electoral office was set fire to, in what he called a 'politically motivated attack'

Anti-Defamation Commission chair Dr Dvir Abramovich said the vandalism on a Jewish MP's office is an 'assault on our democracy and our sense of safety'.

Victorian Greens leader Ellen Sandell condemned the violence and property damage but claimed the movement calling for the end to the war in Gaza was largely peaceful.

Federal Labor minister Katy Gallagher said attacks on politicians' offices are 'not the way we do politics in Australia'.

'This type of criminal activity - vandalism - is outrageous, and we need to make sure that the community understands that this is just not on,' she told ABC TV.
This video is no longer available

This video is no longer available

A major police operation is underway in Melbourne's CBD following a reported bomb scare, with a street locked down and workers told to stay inside their offices.

A 33-year-old man was arrested on Collins Street, near Bendigo Bank, just after midday on Wednesday.

Police will now interview the man over an ongoing arson and explosives squad investigation.

'The matter is not terror-related, and there is no immediate threat to community safety,' a spokesperson said.

'The Bomb Response Unit has deployed to conduct a safety check on a vehicle in Collins Street.

'Further information will be provided once operationally appropriate to do so.'

Police are seen investigating a white hatchback after a reported bomb threat in Melbourne

Police are seen putting items into evidence bags in Melbourne's CBD

A handgun was taken away from the scene in Melbourne's CBD on Wednesday

An assortment of items were removed from the car including paper towel, a chain and Valvoline motor oil

A police operation is underway on Collins Street in Melbourne's CBD

A major police operation is underway in Melbourne 's CBD with a street locked down and workers told to stay inside their offices

A handgun was seen on the front passenger seat of the white hatchback

A handgun and drug paraphernalia were reportedly seen inside a white Volkswagen hatchback that police were focusing on.

An assortment of items were removed from the car, including paper towels, a chain and Valvoline motor oil

Trams, traffic and the general public were initially diverted away from the area.

Public transport is understood to have resumed, but commuters have been told to expect delays.

Collins Street was locked down between Elizabeth and Queen Streets.

Police are seen going through the white Volkswagen on Wednesday

Heavily armed police are seen in Melbourne's CBD


Canada Parliament 'honours' slain Khalistani terrorist Nijjar with moment of silence The Canadian Parliament has marked the first anniversary of the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar by holding a moment of silence in the House of Commons. This comes days after Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said that there is an "alignment on several big issues with India and he sees an "opportunity to engage with the new Indian government...



Trudeau had said this after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Italy during the G7 summit.



Nijjar was gunned down in Canadas Surrey, outside a parking lot on June 18 last year.



India had put him on a list of designated terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).



Canada has arrested three people in the Nijjar killing case so far.



Canada has alleged that Indian officials were involved in the killing but has failed to provide evidence of this. This has strained ties between Ottawa and New Delhi.



India has been maintaining that the main issue between the two countries is that of Canada giving space to pro-Khalistan elements operating from Canadian soil with impunity.




Liberal cable news host Rachel Maddow sent shockwaves through The View on Tuesday with her criticism of the Supreme Court and a call on Chief Justice John Roberts to 'save the legal system.'

Maddow, a well-known advocate against Donald Trump and conservatives, joined the daily gabfest and was asked about the behavior of Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito.

Thomas, who has come under criticism for failing to disclose gifts from businessman Harlan Crow, finally acknowledged some of the pricey gifts he accepted from the billionaire amid left-wing rage.

Alito angered Democrats after an upside down American flag was flown at his home after the Capitol riot on January 6, which he later claimed was his wife's decision.

Maddow called both out for being 'flagrantly corrupt' and demanded that Roberts do something about it, surprising show co-host Sunny Hostin.

Liberal cable news host Rachel Maddow sent shockwaves through The View on Tuesday with her criticism of the Supreme Court and a call on Chief Justice John Roberts to 'save the legal system'

'The blatant corruption of a couple of these Supreme Court justices is John Roberts' problem. He is the chief justice, he has to police it to save his court and to save the legal system,' she said.

Co-host Joy Behar said it was 'iffy' that Roberts would act.

She then believed that if corruption were to occur at liberal MSNBC, it would be dealt with.

Maddow asked: 'I work at MSNBC. If there was a member of my family lobbying the White House chief of staff, saying, 'overturn this election result,' you think they'd let me cover that election result, let alone give a binding judicial ruling on that election result?'

The host was referring to Thomas' wife Ginni, who texted White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows trying to get him to challenge the results of the 2020 election.

She also argued that the Supreme Court gave Trump effective immunity 'because they've already delayed things so long that the stuff that he did in 2020, he's not going to be tried for before he potentially gets back in the White House.'

Maddow, the face of MSNBC for well over a decade, recently made headlines by suggesting Trump will put her in an internment camp in the event he is reelected.

In an interview with CNN senior media reporter Oliver Darcey published in Monday's Reliable Sources newsletter, Maddow was asked about her concerns about being personally victimized by the Trump administration if he is to be winner of the 2024 presidential election.

Maddow, a well-known advocate against Donald Trump and conservatives , joined the daily gabfest and was asked about the behavior of Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito

Maddow called both out for being 'flagrantly corrupt' and demanded that Roberts do something about it, surprising show co-host Sunny Hostin

'Trump and his allies are openly talking about weaponizing the government to seek revenge against critics in media and politics, with some of his extremist allies even talking about jailing their fellow Americans,' said Darcy. 'You're one of his most notable critics on television. Are you worried that you could be a target?'

Maddow replied: 'I'm worried about the country broadly if we put someone in power who is openly avowing that he plans to build camps to hold millions of people, and to 'root out' what he's described in subhuman terms as his 'enemy from within.'

'Again, history is helpful here. He's not joking when he says this stuff, and we've seen what happens when people take power proclaiming that kind of agenda.'

'I think there's a little bit of head-in-the-sand complacency that Trump only intends to go after individual people he has already singled out. Do you really think he plans to stop at well-known liberals?

'It also seems pretty clear that some people in politics might think they'll be on the safe side  that they might even benefit from it  if they side with Trump. Ask Mike Pence about how that works out in the end.

'When Trump invokes the Insurrection Act to deploy the U.S. military against civilians on his first day in office, do you think he then rescinds the order on day two?

She continued, 'For that matter, what convinces you that these massive camps he's planning are only for migrants? So, yes, I'm worried about me  but only as much as I'm worried about all of us.'

Maddow, a well-known advocate against Trumps's presidential campaign, said back in August that she fears Trump would become 'president for life,' in other words a dictator, if he clenches a second term in the White House.

She has railed against Trump since he was first elected in 2016, with her flabbergasted reaction to his victory over Hillary Clinton one of the defining media moments of that election.
A dodgy detail was discovered on a set of number plates after cops pulled over a driver for allegedly speeding.

The 24-year-old was allegedly caught driving 120km/h in a 100km/h zone along the M5 motorway near Revesby, Sydney's south-west, at 9.55pm on Sunday.

Cops quickly realised that the number plates on the car appeared to have been tampered with.

Black ink from a pen had been scrawled across them with the plates containing a combination of false numbers and made-up letters.

Police also discovered the man's licence had been suspended after he allegedly failed a drug test hours earlier at Bateman's Bay, on the NSW south coast, at 2.30pm.

A dodgy detail was discovered on a set of number plates after cops pulled over a driver for allegedly speeding

Officers performed another drug test before it allegedly returned a positive result.

They then searched the man and his vehicle and found a resealable bag that allegedly contained drugs.

The driver was arrested and taken to Bankstown Police Station, but officers became suspicious that he was hiding something.

Police searched the man again and found another resealable bag in his rectum, which also allegedly contained drugs.

He was charged with exceeding the speed limit, driving with altered number plates, breaching bail conditions, driving whilst prohibited from driving (suspended) and possessing prohibited drugs.

He will front Bankstown Court House at a later date.

Police searched the man and his vehicle and found a resealable bag that allegedly contained drugs

The driver was charged with exceeding the speed limit, driving with altered number plates, breaching bail conditions, driving whilst prohibited from driving (suspended) and possessing prohibited drugs

NSW drivers could be fined up to $3,300 for driving with a suspended license and they can be jailed for a year.

Motorists are not allowed to carry drugs or consume the substance.

The maximum penalty for the offence is a $3,300 fine and they could lose their license permanently.
A house collapse in New York has injured 10 people after a possible gas explosion, leaving some now fighting for their lives.

Syracuse Fire Chief Michael Monds said the occupants were transported to hospital after the two-story home toppled about 4pm.

Eight of the victims - which include children - are currently in serious condition and on life support.

Monds told reporters 46 firefighters responded to the emergency 911 call made by a resident at 205 Carbon Street.

Syracuse Fire Chief Michael Monds confirmed that 10 people were transported to the hospital after a two-story house in Syracuse collapsed about 4pm

On arrival, they found flames emerging from a porch on the second floor as fire spread across the house and attic.

Crews used water hoses to douse the blaze as additional teams began searches for anyone trapped inside.

The scene was eventually contained and the fire was put out after approximately 30 minutes.

The chief said they could smell gas when they arrived at the scene and found a car under the rubble.

'How that car got there, we're unsure right now,' Monds said.

Officials were soon able to contain the scene and the fire was declared completely out after approximately 30 minutes

A portion of the roof and a second-floor porch had also collapsed due to the damage, while the first floor sustained smoke and water damage.

Three adults and one child were displaced by the fire.

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh also said in another statement: 'It's a tragic situation.

'This is a situation that I havent personally observed, certainly nothing to this extent in terms of an explosion or the number of victims, but again theres still a lot that we need to learn.'

Fire investigators at the scene were able to conclude that the fire began on a second-floor porch. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
America's 'happiest murder defendant' Karen Read has said she is willing to testify as she stands accused of murdering her Boston cop boyfriend.

Read, 44, has long denied having any involvement in her boyfriend John O'Keefe's death in January 2022 - instead claiming she is being framed by police in a vast conspiracy.

She now says she would like to prove her case herself.

'I'd like to fill in some holes and correct some lies,' Read told reporters outside the Norfolk County Superior Court on Tuesday, wearing a black blouse and white patterned scarf as her hair blew in the wind.

'But it's up to the attorneys and they'll make the call - probably at the 11th hour.

'I'm there or not there,' she continued. 'I defer to them.'

Karen Read, 44, told reporters on Tuesday she is willing to take the stand in her murder trial

Smiling, Read went on to explain why she would like to take the stand.

'I'm an outspoken person and I've never not been able to speak up for myself in my defense except when it matters most,' she said.

'I've got to rely on them and their expertise,' Read said of her defense team. 'I'll defer to the attorneys.'

Read's appearance outside the courthouse on Tuesday came as attorneys on both sides were arguing whether to allow certain defense witnesses.

They subjected the potential witnesses to questioning without a jury, as the trial is set to continue with the prosecution wrapping up its case on Thursday.

But Read derided the arguments the prosecution has made thus far, telling reporters on Tuesday: 'There is no case against me.

'After eight weeks, it's smoke and mirrors, and it's going through my private life and trying to contrive a motive that was never there.'

John O'Keefe, a 16-year Boston cop, was found dead around 6am on January 29, 2022, outside a house where Read dropped him off for an afterparty around 12.45am

Prosecutors have claimed Read and O'Keefe's relationship was on the rocks at the time

O'Keefe's was found unconscious in a snowbank outside a house Read dropped him off at the night before, with skull fractures, swollen eyes and hypothermia at around 6am on January 29, 2022.

He and Read had earlier gone out to celebrate the acceptance of his niece into private school, and footage from one of the bars, CR McCarthy's in Boston, showed her embracing O'Keefe - hugging and kissing the man she is accused of killing just hours later.

But prosecutors claim Read and O'Keefe's relationship had been on the rocks amid allegations he was cheating and tensions over the two children in O'Keefe's care - his orphaned niece and nephew.

They claim she then hit O'Keefe outside of the house party with her SUV that night and left him to die - pointing to fragments from her car that were left at the scene.

The two had gone out drinking at a Boston bar before she dropped him off at the party

Prosecutors have also claimed that witnesses at the scene heard Read yell 'I hit him!' when she and two friends found his body, along with 'this is my fault. I did this.'

Read's defense, however, was able to get cops to acknowledge they never actually heard her say she hit O'Keefe, who was a 16-year veteran of the Boston Police Department.

Defense attorneys also refuted the idea there was trouble with the relationship, with O'Keefe's friends at the bar testifying that the couple seemed content that night.

Instead, they claim O'Keefe was beaten up by people at the party and thrown outside where he died on the lawn.

They argue that the police did not then properly investigate O'Keefe's death, and have singled out Massachusetts State Trooper Lt. Michael Proctor for his close relationship with a number of law enforcement connected to the case - including the owner of the home where O'Keefe was found, Brian Albert.

Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor admitted last week to sending text messages disparaging Read

Proctor, who led the investigation into O'Keefe's death, has since admitted in court to sending text messages disparaging Read and denying that Albert would face any repercussions.

He called Read a 'whack job' and a 'cunt' and referred to her as a 'babe' with 'no ass,' while also making light of her 'Fall River accent' in some text messages to friends, while in others he joked about rummaging through her phone for nude photos during the course of the investigation.

In other messages, Proctor texted his friends that there will 'be some serious charges brought on the girl,' referring to Read.

He claimed in the messages that Read 'waffled him' and that 'she hit him with her car,' according to the Boston Globe.

'We're going to lock this whack job up,' he wrote in one of the messages.

On the stand last week, Proctor repeatedly apologized for the text messages, calling it 'poor language' that had 'no bearing' on the investigation.

He said that 'these juvenile, unprofessional comments had zero impact on the facts, the evidence and the integrity of the investigation.'
Tucker Carlson has claimed Australian politicians responsible for enforcing strict lockdowns during the pandemic should be jailed and also slammed Anthony Albanese for allowing record levels of immigration to Australia.

The former Fox News host, who is on a speaking tour Down Under, said he was appalled at the restrictive lockdowns imposed on Aussies and called for political leaders to be held accountable.

'Putting your own citizens in concentration camps is insane and I hope the people who did that go to jail for it,' Carlson told Daily Mail Australia.

This publication asked the controversial US commentator whether he would like to see former Victorian premier Dan Andrews, who was dubbed 'Dictator Dan' after being responsible for one of the most punitive lockdowns in the country, behind bars.

'I think anybody who puts his own citizens in concentration camps without trial has committed a crime and should be held accountable for it,' Carlson responded.

Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson (pictured), who is on a speaking tour Down Under, said he was appalled at the restrictive lockdowns imposed on Aussies during the Covid-19 pandemic and called for political leaders to be held accountable

This publication asked the controversial US commentator whether he would like to see former Victorian premier Dan Andrews (pictured), who was responsible for one of the most punitive lockdowns in the country, behind bars

'And it's shocking to me that that's even up for debate and my sense of Australia, not being an expert, is that that's not even a topic of public conversation anymore and it should be.'

He added: 'I don't understand Australia, I'm not Australian, but I just can't believe that that happened and I can't believe the people who did it have gotten away with it.'

Carlson, who is attending the Australian Freedom Conference on the invitation of mining billionaire Clive Palmer, also took aim at Mr Albanese and his government's record on immigration.

Last week, it was revealed that a record 500,000 migrants, half of whom are students, will enter the country this year - a rate of 60 every hour.

'I can't stand it when foreigners come to my country and start lecturing me about politics and I'm really trying not to do that,' Carlson said.

Carlson, who is attending the Australian Freedom Conference on the invitation of mining billionaire Clive Palmer (both men are pictured together), also took aim at the prime minister, Mr Albanese, and his government's record on immigration

Asked if he planned to attend any Welcome to Country ceremonies, Carlson appeared momentarily taken aback

'But you want a government in a democratic society to put its own citizens first and to improve their lives in material and measurable ways, and any politician who's committed to mass immigration is not serving his own population.'

Carlson continued, describing governments who pursue a policy of mass immigration as undertaking an 'expression of hatred toward their own people'.

'I would say that's true in Australia. If you let a million people in over a short period of time, how does that help the people who live here?' he asked.

'It doesn't. It hurts them. I think it's an expression of hatred.'

The conservative pundit also issued a grave warning about the threat of China to Australian citizens.

'China is the dominant power in the region and obviously has a great deal of control already over your politics and politicians are very inexpensive to buy and China needs the resources,' he said.

Carlson also issued a grave warning about the threat of China to Australian citizens (pictured: Chinese Premier Li Qiang shakes hands with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday)

Carlson also slammed governments who pursue a policy of mass immigration, describing it as an 'expression of hatred toward their own people'

'Australia has, what, 26 million people? China has over a billion. You should be terrified of being dominated - of losing your sovereignty to China.'

Asked if he planned to attend any Welcome to Country ceremonies, Carlson appeared momentarily taken aback.

'Smoking ceremonies? I wonder how that affects the climate, it seems like a lot of emissions to me,' he said after the cultural practice was explained to him.

'I'm not against it. What I don't want to ever participate in is a hollow political ritual but I mean, I certainly appreciate other cultures - that's why I travel so much.'

Carlson said his only issue was with the Australian government - not its people.

'I've met a million Australians over the course of my life and they are the funniest, warmest, interesting, cool people - I couldn't have higher regard for Australia or Australians,' he said.

'That's why I was so offended by the COVID insanity because of all countries to do that to, I mean, go ahead and do that in some primitive country, not what's clearly one of the greatest countries in the world.'

He urged Australians to resist the rise of 'wokeism'.

'Don't allow people to attack you on the basis of your race. Wokeism is anti-white politics and I think it's immoral,' he said.

'I would think it was immoral if it was anti-black politics or anti-Indian politics. I think racism is wrong and I thought everyone in the West believed that, I thought it was one of our core beliefs.

'But in the last 10 years, governments have made as a sort of philosophical pillar, hatred of white people, and they say it out loud and I find that remarkable.

He added: 'It doesn't make you a white supremacist to demand to be treated as a human being.'
Volunteer firefighters in Victoria's central north are so opposed to renewable power plants and transmission lines in their area they will let fires burn around them rather than tackle the blazes.

Captains from five brigades wrote to the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and the state government to say they are not prepared to fight fires near or involving infrastructure such as the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector (VNI West).

VNI West is a planned transmission line that would run for hundreds of kilometres through Victorian farmland, leading to angry protests from farmers who say they do not want it on their land.

The line is planned for 'over the top of dry land farming area, where we have a six month fire danger period,' Gre Gre Village CFA Brigade captain Peter Knights told Daily Mail Australia.

'It gets very dry and hot and we have fairly significant fire events, and it places a barrier to us being able to attack or fight any running grass fires because we can't move under the transmission lines because of the smoke being conductive.

Volunteer firefighters (pictured) in Victoria's central north are so opposed to renewable power plants and transmission lines they will let fires burn around them rather than tackle the blazes

'And it runs the risk of what we call a flash over, where the electricity at a high voltage will arch to the ground, and if you're underneath it, it will kill you.'

Mr Knights and his fellow firefighters also object to the VNI West due to the economic value of the land it is planned to run across.

'They're placing this transmission line and also placing a renewable energy zone over the top of some of the best grain growing and livestock producing country,' he said.

'That renewable energy zone shouldn't be over productive farmland.'

As well as volunteers from CFA Brigades in Gre Gre Village, Traynors Lagoon, Gooroc, Callawadda and Wallaloo East, the group claimed it had also 'received commitments from a further 19 impacted brigades'.

In a statement, the group said it is also 'looking to add the support of many more either in joining our proposed action or taking their own variation of action'.

'We see the imposition of all this infrastructure and our requirement to then protect that asset that's been imposed on us, (that it) will divide our communities,' Mr Knights said.

He denied that the group is driven by an anti-renewables agenda, saying VNI West is being put 'through the wrong area and it's imposing extra risk'.

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'There's no political alignment with this group, but there will be political persuasions or thoughts within the individual members.

'We're not saying that we're pro-nuclear or pro-coal, but we're certainly saying renewables in the wrong spot is a bad idea and it's really been imposed on us without proper consultation.'

Mr Knights said, however, that using renewable energy is 'only a short term solution. We're putting wind turbines up which have a 25 year life ... what's after that?'

He denied that the group is funded by any fossil fuel backers.

'We're five very small fire brigades of locals and our budget is all self-funded, because it's not costing us much to put a hand up and say we're not turning out.'

The aim of the group is to get 'at least a genuine discussion around what's expected of volunteers and the impact on communities where these things are placed'.

Mr Knights said their campaign is also about ensuring the areas where the VNI West is proposed to go through are protected and can attract people to live there in future.

The line is planned for 'over the top of dry land farming area, where we have a six-month fire danger period,' Gre Gre Village CFA Brigade captain Peter Knights said. The firefighters concerned are pictured

'You're looking to perpetuate your area as a good place to be and it's pretty hard if no one wants to live there because there's a tick, tick, tick of a wind tower over your head, or it's just a totally different place to be than what it's been,' he said.

CFA's deputy chief officer Brett Boatman said they are working with 'members on issues around fighting fires near transmission lines and renewable energy resources such as solar farms and battery energy storage solutions'.

'The concerns from our CFA members has been heard and we are working with them to ensure the right information is out there,' Mr Boatman told Daily Mail Australia.

'CFA acknowledges the concerns of the community and respects our members' rights to engage in matters relevant to their local communities.'
CONTENT WARNING

Never-before-seen photos of murdered schoolgirl Charlise Mutten show the happy nine-year-old celebrating her last Christmas.

Murder trial exhibits released by the NSW Supreme Court also include images taken the day before she was shot dead by the evil monster she called 'daddy'.

Further images were released of the brown plastic barrel in which Charlise's body was found upside down in the foetal position, bound with tape and weighted down with sand on the banks of the Colo River.

Daily Mail Australia previously reported the scene where Charlise's remains were discovered was so horrific that police were traumatised and needed time off work.

'There will be people that won't be coming back to work for a while,' a source said.

The photos, along with police interviews with Charlise's murderer, Justin Stein, and a recording of the Triple-0 call by Charlise's mother, Kallista Mutten, reporting her missing, were released at the end of Stein's trial.

Stein, 34, a drug abuser from a wealthy family, was found guilty on Wednesday of murdering Charlise between January 11 and 12, 2022.

A jury pronounced him guilty after a month-long trial and then eight days of deliberation before Justice Helen Wilson.

The convicted killer, who shot Charlise in the face while she was on holiday with him and her mother, Stein's then fiancee, could face life behind bars.

Charlise Mutten is pictured on Christmas Day 2021 just a few weeks before she was murdered in new photos released by the NSW Supreme Court

Charlise is seen with her mother Kallista Mutten on Christmas Day 2021, when the nine-year-old was on holiday in Sydney with Kallista's fiance Justin Stein, who has now been convicted of her murder

Justin Stein (above) was Kallista Mutten's fiance from a wealthy family, but in reality the former couple were drug offenders and had met while serving prison sentences

Murder trial exhibits released by the NSW Supreme Court include images of the brown plastic barrel in which Charlise's body was found upside down, bound with tape and weighted down with sand on the banks of the Colo River

Stein had pleaded not guilty to Charlise's murder, and lied that it was instead Ms Mutten, 40, who had shot her daughter in the NSW Blue Mountains.

Stein had claimed that after Ms Mutten shot her daughter, she secretly placed Charlise's body in the barrel and secured it on the back of his ute without his knowledge.

But the jury did not believe him.

Ms Mutten denied having any involvement in her daughter's death and broke down in tears when she faced the accusation in court.

Many of the facts of the case were not in dispute, including that Charlise died from gunshot wounds she sustained at or near a Mount Wilson estate owned by Stein's mother, the jury heard.

At Stein's trial, the court heard about the 'unconditional love' between Charlise and Kallista, and of the child's growing affection for Stein via FaceTime calls.

'She said she really liked Justin and she asked me if he would be a good dad,' her grandfather Clinton Mutten said.

The last-ever photos of Charlise Mutten (left) in a swimming pool three days before her murder, and (right) laughing on the night of January 10, 2022. A day later she would be dead

The .22 BSAQ rifle with scope that Justin Stein used to shoot Charlise in the face

The barrel containing Charlise's body was dumped in the bush by the Colo River, 60km from where the young girl was shot dead at the Stein property, 'Wildenstein'. Daily Mail Australia previously reported the scene was so horrific that police were traumatised and needed time off work

When Charlise did eventually come down to NSW for the holiday, she had finished a successful school year in which she had won a literacy prize.

Clinton Mutten also told the court the young girl loved animals and had dreams of becoming a veterinarian surgeon.

By the last week of Charlise's life, the court heard, the romance between Stein and Kallista was all but over.

Crown prosecutor Ken McKay SC said Stein was the last person to see Charlise and had the opportunity to kill her between 7.16pm on Tuesday, January 11, and 10.06am on Wednesday, January 12.

Stein will be sentenced in August for Charlise's murder.
An American soldier detained in Russia on charges of theft and threats to kill his girlfriend was found guilty Wednesday and sentenced to three years and nine months in a Russian penal colony.

Gordon Black, 34, is a staff sergeant who was detained on May 2 in Vladivostok in Russia's far east.

He pleaded not guilty on Monday to charges of threatening to kill his girlfriend but admitted he was 'partially' guilty of stealing from her.

Black's defense lawyer will appeal the verdict, a Russian news agency reported, adding the judge handed down the sentence of 'imprisonment of three years and nine months' for both charges.

The agency said prosecutors had asked for a prison sentence of four years and eight months, while the defense asked for Black to be acquitted of all charges.

An American soldier detained in Russia on charges of theft and threats to kill his girlfriend was found guilty Wednesday and sentenced to three years and nine months in a Russian penal colony

Gordon Black, 34, is a staff sergeant who was detained on May 2 in Vladivostok in Russia's far east

Black 'partially' acknowledged his guilt on the charge of stealing 10,000 roubles ($113) from his girlfriend Alexandra Vashchuk's purse but said that 'there was no intent,' RIA reported.

The pair had met in South Korea, where Black was stationed.

The Pentagon has said that he broke army rules by travelling to Russia without authorisation, having passed through China.

Black has a wife and child in Texas. His wife Megan told Reuters last month that he and Vashchuk had a tempestuous relationship.

Black, 35, had reportedly just finished his service in South Korea and traveled to Russia without permission.

But his mom Melody Jones has refuted this narrative and claims her son was 'set up', stating his girlfriend asked her to wire her $600 before his arrest.

'She was trying to ask us for money,' she told Fox. 'She wanted me to set up another account and send money to her', agreeing the request was a 'red flag'.

She reiterated previous comments about her sense of unease over her son's plans to visit his girlfriend.

Black's defense lawyer will appeal the verdict, a Russian news agency reported, adding the judge handed down the sentence of 'imprisonment of three years and nine months' for both charges

Black 'partially' acknowledged his guilt on the charge of stealing 10,000 roubles ($113) from his girlfriend Alexandra Vashchuk's (pictured) purse but said that 'there was no intent,' RIA reported

'I told him I had a really bad feeling about him going,' she added. 'I was worried more then what  than when he was in Iraq for some reason.

'Were like on pins and needles. Were, you know, really tired, of course, worried. I just wish I could hear his voice.'

She added that the girlfriend has not been back in touch since but has been active on TikTok posting videos of him.

Black was questioned for nine hours upon arrival at a Russian airport, Jones said, adding that she does not know if her son had a visa to visit Russia.

Jones said Black met his girlfriend at a club in South Korea over a year ago and they had a 'volatile' relationship.

Black had reportedly claimed his girlfriend got deported from South Korea after they were involved in a dispute in the fall of 2023.

Pictures posted on social media showed them together in January and earlier.

Russian reports say that two weeks after coming to Vladivostok the US Army staff sergeant 'beat his beloved and stole 200,000 roubles from her.'

Black had reportedly claimed his girlfriend got deported from South Korea after they were involved in a dispute in the fall of 2023

Black's mom Melody Jones has refuted this narrative and claims her son was 'set up', stating his girlfriend asked her to wire her $600 before his arrest

The court did not list any charge of violence against him.

Pro-Kremlin BAZA news outlet, with links to law enforcement, said Gordon came to Russia in mid-April.

'About two weeks later they quarreled and, according to [Aleksa], Gordon beat her.' they said. 'After that, he stole 200,000 rubles and alcohol from her.'

The court ordered him to be held in pre-trial detention until July 2nd on a charge that could see him jailed for five years.

Black was supposed to transfer from South Korea to Fort Cavazos in Texas.

The Russian Foreign Ministrys office in Vladivostok has said Black's arrest is not political or related to espionage.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the US is aware of the cause but could not say much more at the moment.

Army spokeswoman Cynthia O. Smith said: 'The Russian Federation notified the U.S. Department of State of the criminal detention in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

Black is now one of several American citizens currently imprisoned in Russia

Melody Jones said Black was on a two-week leave when he traveled to Russia, and that she felt he was being set up because she suspected his girlfriend was a spy

'The Army notified his family and the U.S. Department of State is providing appropriate consular support to the soldier in Russia. Given the sensitivity of this matter, we are unable to provide additional details at this time.'

Black is now one of several American citizens currently imprisoned in Russia.

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has been held by Russia since last March.

Meanwhile former Marine Paul Whelan has been jailed since 2018; he is sentenced to 16 years in prison after being convicted of espionage.

Both are wrongfully detained, according to the US government.

Moreover, American-Russian ballerina Ksenia Karelina has been jailed in Russia since January or donating $51 to a Ukrainian charity.

She was charged with treason and faces up to 20 years in jail for making a small donation to the humanitarian charity Razom on the day Russia invaded Ukraine.

The payment was discovered after her phone was seized when she flew into Yekaterinburg's Koltsovo Airport on January 2, planning to visit her 90-year-old grandparents in time for Russia's Christmas day.

The US government has warned US citizens against traveling to Russia.
Australia is rushing towards becoming a cashless society but not everyone is ready to wave goodbye to physical currency - and there are good reasons why.

The Covid pandemic supercharged a trend toward digital transactions that was already underway, with the use of digital wallet payments on smartphones and watches soaring from $746million in 2018 to more than $93billion in 2022.

By the end of 2022 cash only accounted for 13 per cent of Australian consumer payments compared to 70 per cent in 2007.

'The shift towards a cashless society in Australia isn't just a possibility, it's already well underway,' RMIT Associate Professor in Finance Angel Zhong said.

While Dr Zhong did not see banknotes disappearing completely, she believed they will become much rarer in day-to-day transactions.

'The functionally cashless society is where we enjoy the convenience of technology - we don't have to go out with a bunch of cash, we can use our phone and smartwatch to make payments,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

As more Australians embrace the trend a growing number of retailers are only accepting digital payments.

Major banks continue to close branches, shrink ATM numbers and are even opening 'cashless' branches, citing a customer preference for online services.

However, going electronic has its own sets of risks and could badly disadvantage some sections of the population.

Here are the 10 major concerns of going cashless.

RMIT Associate Professor in Finance Angel Zhong says legislation in Australia is trailing behind developments in electronics payment

1. It can leave out older Australians or others not digitally connected

Dr Zhong said the strongest adopters of digital payments were Australians aged between 18 and 29.

'Two-thirds of them use digital wallets,' she said.

However, many older Australians still preferred to pay in physical currency with almost one in five classified as a 'high-cash user'.

Dr Zhong said as Australia needed provide 'better support for other age groups to embrace technology, better literacy about systems in technology as well as financial assistance' for those struggling with the transition to digital payments.

Those on lower incomes and new migrants also typically rely more on cash.

2. It relies on internet coverage and reliable connectivity

Rural areas with slow internet can find digital transactions challenging.

However a major Commonwealth Bank outage in July demonstrated the vulnerability of digital finance even in urban areas.

Customers were left paralysed by the technical glitch and unable to access their accounts, transfer funds or use their cards to make purchases.

Dr Zhong said governments needed to support investment in infrastructure that boosted internet coverage and speeds to smooth the way for the digital revolution.

3. Some areas of the cash economy will suffer

Charity donations given on the street are dwindling because fewer people are carrying cash and the those who beg or busk for a living face the same problem, research conducted in 2020 found.

'While retailers and online merchants have benefited from cashless payment options, donation-seekers are left rattling an empty cup,' wrote University of Massachusetts' Spencer M. Ross and Auckland University of Technology's Sommer Kapitan.

'Aside from people carrying less cash, our research suggests another major reason is that people simply don't expect to see beggars or buskers with a swipe machine, or a QR code or Venmo symbol on their signs.'

4. 'Hidden' fees

Digital transactions often attract a fee, which might not be obvious at the time of purchase.

Warwick Ponder, the former executive manager of corporate affairs and communications at eftpos Payments Australia, told Daily Mail Australia that Paywave devices often levied a delayed credit surcharge.

Mr Ponder advised customers to avoid tapping as much as possible, as there could be a significant period of time before the money deducted registers in their account.

Banks also typically charge a higher fee for 'tap-and-go' purchases than for EFTPOS, with only cash attracting no extra cost.

5. Hacking and scams

It is estimated that Australians lost more than $2billion to online scams in 2021 - but the true figure could be much higher due to many incidents going unreported.

Major cybersecurity breaches of Optus and Medibank last year also highlighted the risk of identity theft online.

UNSW Institute for Cyber-Security director Nigel Phair told Daily Mail Australia that the nation 'has to do a lot better when it comes to cyber-crime'.

' The Australian Cyber-Security Centre said they had about 63,000 reports (of scams) last year, I reckon that's about a fifth of what the actual number is.

'The ACCC had about $2billion in reported losses from scams. I reckon that's nowhere near the right amount.'

6. Lagging legislation

Regulation of electronic payments often lags behind technological and market innovations.

Google Pay and Apple Pay are currently not subject to the same rules as credit cards and EFTPOS transactions.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers is updating legislation to change this.

'That payments Act is actually out of date,' Dr Zhong said.

'We need to regulate to ensure that we have an industry-wide standard to ensure that consumers' wellbeing and security are protected.'

7. Losing the value of money and less social interaction

Finance commentator Sarah Wells told Daily Mail Australia that children won't learn the true value of money and miss out on crucial social interactions if all transactions become digital.

'I believe it is better for children to use cash,' Ms Wells said.

'Giving a child $20 and taking them to a shopping centre or the movies helps them to learn to budget and helps them to make decisions by thinking more carefully.

'There's a responsibility in handing over money and such valuable social interaction - they learn to say 'please' and 'thank you' and look people in the eye.'

8. Loss of independent spending power

Ms Wells also warned that having 'a cash-starved society' could be bad news for those whose finances are being controlled or denied by someone else.

Ms Wells said young women who were fleeing domestic violence needed to be kept in mind when regulating digital payments.

Women in these circumstances risk being tracked by an abusive partner or being cut off from their finances.

'We need to make sure we are not compromising the safety, education and experience of minority groups and young minds in our endeavours to legislate contemporary payment platforms,' she said.

Australia is rapidly going cashless with digital payments being enthusiastically adopted, especially by younger consumers

9. Your spending can be tracked

The loss of anonymity and privacy is a major concern for many who oppose a 'cashless society'.

A change.org petition created by Elizabeth Hynton which rails against the 'discrimination' faced by those who used cash has gathered more than 5000 signatures.

'Cash is private,' the petition states.

'When one pays via credit/debit card, the Government knows: what one spends their money on, how much they spend, where one spends their money and when the purchase was made, which is an invasion of privacy.'

Dr Zhong agreed that the concerns were valid.

'(With) anything digital there is always a vulnerability it will be tracked,' she said.

10. Loss of your and freedom of choice

This is perhaps the over-riding concern of many who oppose the cashless society.

The change.org petition argues that cash should always be an option.

'One of the hallmarks of a free society is freedom of choice ... not just what suits an organisation, but also what suits the customer!' the petition states.

'We can't go on forever using COVID as an excuse.'

China presents a dystopian vision of how such control can be exercised, where people are subject to a social credit score that accrues or docks points depending on how desirable the individual's behaviour is according to the government.

A bad social credit score can mean being blocked from buying items such as plane or train tickets.

The Reserve Bank is currently examining the benefits of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) being introduced to to Australia, which would be a 'programmable' currency such as China's.

Although the RBA has stated such a currency could improve the 'efficiency and resilience' of payments it said one was not likely to introduced any time soon.

'Given the many issues that are yet to be resolved, any decision on a CBDC in Australia is likely to be some years away,' the RBA said.
A tradesman showed 'contempt and disrespect' for the court system when he flew to Bali for a holiday even though he was banned from travelling after being sentenced over a four-year campaign of abuse against his wife.

That's according to leading victim advocate Howard Brown, who was enraged when he read Daily Mail Australia's exclusive report about building company director Brendan Lionel Howe's overseas holiday.

Howe, 37, pleaded guilty earlier this month to charges including aggravated assault, common assault and property damage.

The ACT Supreme Court heard that Howe once held his then-wife against a wall when she was 34 weeks pregnant and, in front of their toddler, screamed: 'I rule the roost of this house. You should worship the f***ing ground I walk on. You're a f***ing bitch. You're a mutt.'

'If you and that little c*** inside of you can't see that I'm the boss and when I wanna f***ing talk about something I'm gonna f***ing talk about [it] and she's gonna know that and you're gonna know that.'

He also threatened to kill her if she left him.

Howe walked away from court last week with a fully suspended seven-month prison term, a one-year good behaviour bond, a $1,800 fine and 50 hours of community service.

Brendan Howe is pictured in Canberra on Monday

But Howe then travelled to Bali two days after his sentencing in a blatant breach of his sentencing penalties, having been ordered to stay in, or near, the ACT for the duration of his good behaviour bond.

Victim's advocate Howard Brown slammed Howe's sentence as inadequate and said 'b*****ds like that are going to keep getting away with it' unless it is made very clear to perpetrators they will go to jail if they breach the rules.

'It's sending such an atrocious message,' said Brown, who has spent more than tree decades helping victims of crime navigate the court system, after his friend was murdered when he was young.

Brown said: 'That poor [victim], when she read her victim impact statement, it was clear how distressed she was at the time.

'Where is the encouragement for other victims to come forward if we see how perpetrators fail to respect the decisions of the court?

'If we are serious about dealing with domestic violence, the penalties imposed by the court have to be serious.'

Brendan Howe is pictured during a separate, recent trip to Bali. He was given a formal warning this week for going on a holiday after his sentencing

Brendan Howe (pictured) threatened to kill his ex-wife if she left him, a court heard

It is understood that Howe travelled to Bali on other occasions between his initial arrest and sentencing, and he missed supervised visits with his toddler last week in favour of his overseas trip.

He refused to comment on the matter when contacted by Daily Mail Australia.

His building business, Homes by Howe, which works on multimillion-dollar developments around Canberra, appeared to operate as normal in his absence last week.

There were multiple building sites surrounded by his company logos, tradies were working on different sites, and he was taking bookings for new clients.

In 2022, Governor-General David Hurley was forced to apologise for a 'spur of a happy moment' decision to pose for a photo with Howe at the conclusion of a private renovation.

Mr Hurley said he did not intend for his photo or testimonial to be used in commercial advertising for Homes by Howe, and stressed that he did not receive any benefits.

During sentencing recently, Justice Louise Taylor said the business had generated 'significant income' but he had fallen into debt since his relationship breakdown due to legal fees and child support.

Pictured: Brendan Howe (left) with Governor-General David Hurley and his wife Linda

Brendan Howe is pictured in Canberra on Monday. He pleaded guilty to attacking his ex-wife

His ex-wife cried and shook uncontrollably as she delivered her victim impact statement last week, telling the court: 'I was always the woman that said, "I'll never be with a man who abuses me."

'When you pinned me up against our bedroom door at 34 weeks pregnant, in front of [our daughter] - time stood still. I couldn't believe it was happening, and that the man I loved, father of my children could actually kill me.

'I tolerated this behaviour for so many years because of how much I loved you and ached for our family unit. I never wanted any of this. I was also scared of what you would do if I left. I was scared you would carry through with your threats.'

The woman said Howe had continually blamed her for his abuse, saying she deserved it because he earned the money and had anger issues, and told the court he never apologised to her.

She pleaded with the court to hold Howe accountable for his actions and the way he ruined her sense of safety and security in the world.

Brendan Howe hurled abuse at his ex-wife for four years, the ACT Supreme Court heard

Brendan Howe's developments can be seen around Canberra's inner suburbs (pictured)

Justice Taylor described Howe's comments about his unborn child as 'truly awful', acknowledged his wife's trauma, and found he showed no genuine remorse.

'He is sad for himself,' she said.

'Perpetration of violence, usually by men against their female partners, is a familiar occurrence in this jurisdiction and across the country.'

She said these types of crimes have 'life-altering consequences' and it's rare any sentence imposed by a court in such a case would help victims to simply move on and repair their lives.

However, she found he was motivated to change and had good prospects for rehabilitation.

Howe will appear in the ACT Magistrates Court for a new matter on June 24, during which he will be cross-examined.
Firefighters battle the Sites Fire in Colusa County, which remained 5% contained on Wednesday. Cal Fire LNU

The fast-growing Sites wildfire that has engulfed some 15,656 acres in Colusa County since Monday afternoon remained just 5% contained on Wednesday afternoon as fire crews worked through the night to construct control lines around the blaze.

Officials warned that the risk of new fires erupting in Northern California remained high.

While humidity levels were higher than in the past days, the increase is not enough to impact the probability of ignition, which is still up at around 100%, especially out in that really cured grass, said fire behavior analyst Jonathan Pangborn of Cal Fire.

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We have light flashy fuels, a very receptive fuel bed  it wants to move, he said about the fire.

Cal Fires Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit, which covers Colusa, Lake, Napa, Sonoma, Solano and Yolo counties, put recent fire activity in historical context late Tuesday.

We have seen more acres burned in our @CAL_FIRE Unit over the last three days (11,209 acres) than we saw in the previous three years combined (4,442 acres from 2021-23), the agency said in a post on X.

In Sonoma County, the Point Fire that erupted Sunday near Stewarts Point Road and Skaggs Springs in Geyserville and tore through Dry Creek Valley was 50% contained as of Tuesday evening. The blaze had charred more than 1,207 acres, destroyed two structures and injured one firefighter.

Increasing humidity levels provided a huge advantage to firefighters, according to Cal Fire. More than 1,100 firefighters have been assigned to the blaze, as well as four helicopters.

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The Sites Fire about 100 miles northwest of Sacramento broke out Monday near Sites Lodoga Road and Wilson Creek, southeast of Stonyford, and is currently the largest and fastest growing in Northern California. Thirty structures were reported as threatened, though no injuries or fatalities have been reported. Evacuations are ongoing, according to Cal Fire.

High winds on Monday made the Sites Fire, which is burning in tall grass and bush in a remote area, difficult to control. But firefighters began seeing more favorable conditions as winds diminished late Tuesday evening. Crews worked to secure the eastern flank of the fire in the Grapevine Creek drainage Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning.

Gwyndolyn Ozard, planning section chief for the Cal Fire incident management team 4, said during an operational briefing Wednesday morning that the objective for the day is to keep the fire north of Old Wilbur Road, south of the Glenn-Colusa County line, east of the Mendocino National Forest boundary lines and west of the Tehama Glenn Canal.

Winds were expected to remain fairly light, turning to the southeast on Wednesday afternoon, with humidity trending higher, said incident meteorologist Mike Steven. Humidity was recorded in the 45% to 50% range across the fire area at sunrise Wednesday, while temperatures were around 60 degrees. By 1 p.m., humidity was expected to drop to about 30%, with winds gusting from 15-18 mph along exposed ridge lines.

The Sites and Point fires are among more than a dozen wildfires that have ripped through the state and one of three that firefighters are working to contain in the northern part of the state.

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In Calaveras County east of Stockton, a blaze that erupted Monday afternoon near Rock Creek Road and Highway 4 and has been dubbed as the Aero fire was 33% contained on Wednesday afternoon, having charred more than 5,351 acres.
A final Snapchat video of British teenager Jay Slater reveals he was smiling and laughing the night before he went missing in Tenerife.

The 19-year-old travelled to the Canary Islands for the three-day 'New Rave Generation' (NRG) music festival with Lucy Mae and another friend last week.

On Sunday night, the apprentice bricklayer from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, left the party in South Tenerife with 'two English lads he met at a party'. One of the lads had hired a car and drove them all back to his apartment 'for a few beers'.

The next day, Jay set off on foot having had no luck catching a bus. He used his Maps on his phone to direct him but took a wrong turn and ended up 'in the middle of nowhere'.

He disappeared after making a phone call to Lucy at around 8am on Monday, in which he sounded disorientated, was in desperate need of water and only had one per cent battery left on his phone.

His last known location was in the mountainous area of Teno Rural Park, some 10 hours' walk away from his accommodation in the southern part of the island. He has not been seen or heard from since.

Jay's mother Debbie Duncan and brother Zak flew out to Tenerife on Tuesday after police broke the news of his disappearance in the early hours of the morning.

After touching down yesterday, she said she is 'beside herself with worry'.

Do YOU have information on missing Jay? Email megan.howe@mailonline.co.uk

Jay's final Snapchat shows the teenager laughing and smiling around 8.35pm on the night before he went missing

A screenshot of Jay's last known location where his phone battery died

A MailOnline graphic detailing the timeline of events from when Jay attended the three-day NRG festival to his location when his phone died at around 8.50am on Monday

Jay is pictured right alongside mother Debbie and brother Zak who flew out to Tenerife amid rescue efforts

Jay is seen in this image shared to his friend Lucy's social media days before he disappeared

Speaking from the south of the island where her son had been staying, mother Debbie said: 'I'm obviously beside myself with worry which is why I've flown out here with my eldest son to do anything we can to help.

'We're just praying the police or someone finds Jay. I know there's a mountain rescue team out and a helicopter.

'Nothing's ever going to be enough when your youngest son's gone missing but it sounds as if the police here are taking this very seriously and doing the best job they can.'

Debbie added: 'He'd been at a three-day festival so he would have consumed a fair bit of alcohol but Jay was snapchatting with friends before he went missing and seemed very compos mentis.

'I just think it was a question of him not knowing the island well enough because it was his first time here and being a bit disorientated when it came to distances and not realising it was a 10-hour walk from where he went missing to his holiday accommodation.

'I know the last place he spoke to his friend Lucy from was in the mountains and I think the police have got a more precise location now.'

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News about Jay's disappearance, a scared Lucy said: 'He's gone on a night out, he's gone to a friend's house, someone that he has met on holiday.

'One of the people he has met has hired a car out of here, so he's driven them back to his apartment and Jay has gone there not realising how far away it is.

'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there.

'But then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around.

'He rang me saying his phone was on 1 per cent, he said ''I don't know where I am, I need a drink and my phone is about to die''.'

Lucy said she is frantically searching for her friend on the island, having made several reports to local police in Tenerife and made contact with the British Embassy.

Meanwhile back in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, Jay's stepdad Andy Watson told how police officers knocked on their door in the early hours of the morning today to inform them of the teen's predicament.

'It was about 2.30am in the early,' Andy Watson, 63, told LancsLive. 'When the police said ''the best thing you can do is get yourself out there'' we knew it was bad. This was his first holiday on his own. I'm just hoping he's gone to another party.'

Andy later said in an interview with the Sun: 'It's really worrying. It feels like a blur at the moment.

'Jay is very street wise and he's no mug but if it's it was dark and he had no touch on his phone he could have gone the wrong way and become more lost than he was.'

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, travelled to the Canary Islands for a musical festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Slater had attended the New Rave Generation music festival in Tenerife over the weekend

Jay was reported missing on Sunday morning by friend Lucy Mae

Mother Debbie also revealed she had received several prank calls from hidden numbers claiming they had taken her son and held him for ransom, describing the pranksters' jokes as 'sickening'.

She told how twisted Brits with 'northern accents' had been phoning her with hidden numbers and claiming they had her son captive and were keeping him because he owed them money.

She said: 'Some of the phone calls I've been getting have been horrible. I just don't know why people would want to do things like this.

'I've been getting lots of prank calls. It's sickening. People ringing me and saying they've got Jay because he owes them money.

'But it's not putting me off and I want to keep this in the news because it's going to increase the chances of Jay being found safe and well which is obviously what we're praying for.'

On Sunday, Jay had attended the final day of a the three-day NRG festival at Papagayo Tenerife beach club in the island's south, near to his accommodation.

After the rave he left in a rented car with new friends, Lucy told Manchester Evening News.

Lucy recounted how she received a call from a confused Jay on Monday morning some time after 8am in which told her that his phone battery was on 1 per cent, that he needed a drink of water and 'didn't know where he was'.

He had reportedly been trying to walk back from the apartment he had stayed at overnight, having been unable to catch a bus.

His phone then ran flat, with his last known location registered in the 'Rural de Teno' park, close to the PR-TF51 hiking trail above the small village of Masca.

This is a mountainous area that is popular with hikers but very exposed and far away from heavily populated centres, and there have not yet been any reported sightings of the teen.

Police meanwhile said they were doing 'everything they could' to help find Jay.

Former Coronation Street star Vicky Entwistle has shared a heart-wrenching post on social media, as she prays for Jay's safe return.

Ms Entwistle, who is a close friend of the family, used her social media platform to share the missing poster of Jay which has details of his last location.

The actress who played Janice Battersby in the ITV soap said: 'My God Mother's Grandson has gone missing. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please pray for him.'

My God Mothers Grandson has gone missing. His Mother has flown out 7pm. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please for him.  pic.twitter.com/L7gWxsew8O  Vicky Entwistle (@vicky_entwistle) June 18, 2024

Jay travelled to the Canary Islands for this past weekend's 'New Rave Generation' (NRG) music festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Jay's friend Lucy reported Jay missing to police and launched search efforts yesterday morning

Lucy Mae said of Jay: 'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there... then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around'

Revellers are seen partying at the New Rave Generation festival

Slater is seen with friends in pictures shared on social media

Temperatures in Tenerife peaked at 26 degrees C on Monday.

A Civil Guard spokeswoman in Tenerife today said the force was working hard to find Jay.

'A specialist Mountain Rescue and Intervention Group called the Greim have been mobilised,' she said.

'A police helicopter is also out and focusing on the area around the village of Masca.

'Other emergency services including firefighters have also been mobilised. Everything possible is being done to try to find the missing man.'

A worker at a visitor centre in Masca, which has a registered population of around 90 inhabitants although only about 50 live there all year round, said: 'I've put the missing poster up in case anyone recognises the lad because a lot of people come through here and may have seen something that could help.

'What I can say is that I haven't seen him and nor have colleagues. The helicopter was up yesterday and went across several times overhead and it's been up again this morning searching the area. But no police have been in asking questions or seeking information and this is a logical place to come.

'Most of the people living here are elderly. There's probably only around 50 people who live here all year round and a lot of residents are on holiday at the moment.

'I really hope... they find him soon.

Eva Maria Gracia Herrera, mayoress of the municipality of Buenavista del Norte of which Masca forms a part, added: 'Local police employed by the town hall are assisting but it's the Guardia Civil that are leading this search and investigation and there's not a lot more I can say.

'The area they're covering is a very large area that includes all the Teno Massif where there's mountains. The focus area appears to be Masca and Carrizales and they've got drones up trying to establish why this lad might be.

'Masca is surrounded by mountains and what might be a bit strange is why he's ended up in the Masca area but I can't speculate or offer any hypotheses because I haven't got up-to-date information about the investigation.

'We're obviously hoping this has a happy ending. It's not nice that a young man gets lost in our municipality and we hope he can be found soon and that he's well and can be reunited as soon as possible with his loved ones.'

Police reportedly dispatched a mountain rescue team to the area yesterday, but they are yet to have found any trace of the missing teen.

'I've never been so worried in my life,' Lucy said

The New Rave Generation festival is seen in this screen grab of video footage from the event

The 19-year-old travelled to the holiday island for a music festival and his last-known location was the Teno Rural Park

Lucy added that she has spoken to the people with whom Jay was staying on Sunday night.

She said they claimed the teen had left their apartment at around 8am Monday morning to 'catch a bus', but gave no further information.

'I've never been so worried in my life. I was there all yesterday, a lovely lady messaged me on Facebook and said she had hired a car and would drive me up there', Lucy added.

'We were there all of yesterday, we were driving around looking around everywhere, looking in all the nooks and crannies.'

Jay was last seen wearing a white t-shirt with shorts and trainers. He was also believed to be carrying a black bag.

A spokesman for a regional emergency coordination centre said: 'The Civil Guard are coordinating this operation because they're responsible for investigations involving missing people.

'We're acting as support to them and they're the ones who are asking for more resources as and when they feel they're needed.

'The Civil Guard is involved as well as firefighters and Civil Protection workers who have two drones.

'Yesterday a regional government helicopter was mobilised but today it's a Civil Guard helicopter as well as the Greim mountain specialist team.

'The alert about this missing youngster was received at four minutes past 9am yesterday and the search began soon after and went on into the night.

'My understanding is this man has subsequently been formally reported as missing to the police.'

A FCDO spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.'
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Vladimir Putin was met with a reception fit for a king upon his arrival in North Korea's capital city this morning.

After being greeted at the airport with a warm handshake and a hug by the pariah state's dynastic dictator Kim Jong Un, a huge motorcade ferried the Russian President to Pyongyang's main square where thousands upon thousands of adoring citizens were eagerly awaiting his arrival.

The crowds erupted into cheers and let loose a torrent of bright coloured balloons at the sight of the Kremlin chief, who stood beside his host and took in the rapturous applause before they made their way through Kim Il Sung Square along a huge red carpet.

The pair were saluted by a string of military guards atop snow-white horses before making their way past a gaggle of children clutching balloons and waving frantically at the smirking autocrats.

Other revellers were seen touting huge portraits of the Russian President standing beside the Russian flag - the colours of which adorned the facades of buildings around the square.

The ceremony also gave Kim a chance to introduce Putin to a host of key figures in his Politburo, including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and his powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, who besides her role as chief propagandist has in recent months become a fiery-tongued mouthpiece of the regime.

After touring the square, Kim and Putin clambered into an open-top limousine, which whisked them away to Pyongyang's Kumsusan State Guest House, North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said, for their first talks together on North Korean soil.

The agency described their meeting as a historic event that demonstrates the 'invincibility and durability' of the two nations' friendship and unity.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend an official welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, right, arrive to attend the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

ool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin walk past children during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

People wave to the motorcade carrying North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

North Korean people attend a welcoming ceremony for the Russian President Vladimir Putin during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, North Korea, 19 June 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un (R) attend a welcoming ceremony on June 19, 2024 in Pyongyang, North Korea

Putin thanked Kim for the support and said the two countries would sign an agreement to boost their partnership as both 'fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation'.

The Russian President added that the 'new fundamental document will form the basis of our ties for a long perspective', according to Russian news agencies.

North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programmes, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Putin, making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, thanked North Korea for 'consistent and unchanging support of the Russian policies, including in the Ukrainian direction', hailing ties that date back to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of World War II, and Moscow's support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

'Our pilots flew tens of thousands of combat missions during the liberation war of 1950-53,' Putin said.

Kim responded that relations between Moscow and Pyongyang are at a new high, even compared to Soviet times, and voiced hope that 'the fiery friendship of the two countries will grow more monolithic,' according to Russian state news agencies.

Kim Jong Un (Center-R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) walk past children attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square

North Korean people attend a welcoming ceremony for Russian President Vladimir Putin during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, North Korea, 19 June 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin, second left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, second right, shake hands during the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) watches Russian President Vladimir Putin (C) shaking hands with officials during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un (R) attend a welcoming ceremony on June 19, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un

A sword-wielding military official stands to attention in front of Kim and Putin

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) and and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands after a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

The ceremony also gave Kim a chance to introduce Putin to a host of key figures in his Politburo

A convoy transports North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and and Russian President Vladimir Putin during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (center-R) listens to Russian President Vladimir Putin (center-L) during their meeting in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) walking with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upon arrival at the airport of Pyongyang, North Korea, 18 June 2024

Vladimir Putin beamed as he was greeted by Kim Jong-Un after touching town in North Korea

The North Korean leader was quoted vowing his country's 'full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity'.

Kim has used similar language in the past, consistently saying that North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russia's interests and blaming the crisis on the US-led West's 'hegemonic policy.'

It wasn't immediately clear what that support from Pyongyang might look like.

He also hailed Russia's 'important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.'

Putin's visit to North Korea - his first since the early months of his initial presidential term - comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Russia's war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that would enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile programme.

Putin also said in his published remarks that Russia and North Korea will develop trade and payment systems 'that are not controlled by the West' and jointly oppose sanctions against the countries, which he described as 'illegal, unilateral restrictions'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un pose for a photo

The two men were pictured shaking hands and hugging each other on the runway before leaving the airport in the same car

Kim Jong Un walks with Russian President Putin during a welcoming ceremony upon Putin's arrival

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un step into into a limousine, which is part of a massive motorcade, after walking down a red carpet

Putin is seen with Kim Jong-Un after arriving in North Korea

Putin and Kim Jong Un walk past honour guards during a welcoming ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea

Putin is welcomed upon his arrival to meet with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un

Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un

Putin smiled as he was greeted by Kim Jong-Un after arriving in North Korea after praising the dictator's support of his invasion of Ukraine

Russia's President Vladimir Putin is greeted by North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un during a welcoming ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024

Russia's President Vladimir Putin greets delegation members as North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un stands nearby during a welcoming ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024

Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea's founding after World War II and have drawn even closer since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to the West isolating Putin internationally.

The United States and its allies have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with much-needed arms, including ballistic missiles to use in Ukraine, which mocked the growing relationship between the two nations.

The North has denied giving Russia military hardware but, ahead of his trip, Putin thanked Kim Jong Un's government for helping the war effort.

'We highly appreciate that the DPRK (North Korea) is firmly supporting the special military operations of Russia being conducted in Ukraine,' Putin wrote in an article published by Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday.

Russia and the North are 'now actively developing the many-sided partnership', Putin wrote.

Both countries are under rafts of UN sanctions - Pyongyang since 2006 over banned nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and Moscow over the invasion of Ukraine.

Putin praised North Korea for 'defending their interests very effectively despite the US economic pressure, provocation, blackmail and military threats that have lasted for decades'.

He also hailed Moscow and Pyongyang for 'maintaining the common line and stand at the UN'.

North Korea said the visit showed bilateral ties 'are getting stronger day by day', the official Korean Central News Agency reported, and would 'give fresh vitality to the development of the good-neighbourly cooperative relations between the two countries'.

Putin talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his visit to Pyongyang

In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) listens to Russian President Vladimir Putin (2nd-L) during their meeting in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

Putin smiled brightly as he hugged Kim Jong-Un after arriving at the airport in Pyongyang

Putin prepares to sit into a limousine with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un

Putin and Kim Jong Un were all smiles as the Russian president arrived for a State visit

An airport during a ceremony welcoming Russia's President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba urged the international community to counter 'the lonely bromance' between Putin and Kim by increasing arms supplies to Kyiv.

'The best way to respond to it is to continue strengthening the diplomatic coalition for just and lasting peace in Ukraine and delivering more Patriots and ammunition to Ukraine,' Kuleba told AFP.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Putin's trip showed how he was 'dependent' on authoritarian leaders.

'Their closest friends and the biggest supporters of the Russian war effort - war of aggression - (are) North Korea, Iran and China,' Stoltenberg said.

North Korea is eager for high-end military technology to advance its nuclear, missile, satellite and nuclear-powered submarine programmes, according to experts.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said the two leaders would possibly sign a 'comprehensive strategic partnership treaty' to outline cooperation on 'security issues', state-run Russian news agencies reported.

Huge banners with a smiling photograph of the Russian leader reading 'we ardently welcome President Putin!' were hung from lamp-posts across Pyongyang alongside Russian flags, images in Russian state media showed

Kim rolled out the red carpet for Putin with a welcome ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang

Newsreel footage showed Putin touching down in North Korea on Tuesday for his first trip to the isolated nation in 24 years

Russian despot Vladimir Putin (pictured, right) praised North Korea for 'firmly supporting' his brutal invasion of Ukraine

The North has denied giving Russia military hardware but, ahead of his trip, Putin thanked Kim Jong Un 's government for helping the war effort

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said the two leaders would possibly sign a 'comprehensive strategic partnership treaty' to outline cooperation on 'security issues' (File image)

An overnight drone attack set several oil storage tanks ablaze near the town of Azov in southern Russia on Tuesday

North Korea could promise 'to provide Russia with continuing supplies of artillery, guided rockets for multiple rocket launchers, and short-range missiles to support Russia's operations in Ukraine', Bruce Bennett, senior defence analyst at RAND Corporation, told Yonhap.

In return, it will want 'Russia to provide a variety of advanced technologies', he said, plus 'a substantial flow of Russian oil and food products along with hard currency payments'.

Despite this, North Korea has described allegations of supplying weapons to Russia as 'absurd'.

However, it did thank Russia for using its UN veto in March to effectively end monitoring of sanctions violations just as UN experts were starting to probe alleged arms transfers.

The United States voiced 'concern' on Monday about the trip because of the security implications for South Korea as well as Ukraine.

The two Koreas have remained technically at war since their 1950-53 conflict and the border dividing them is one of the most heavily fortified in the world.

'We know North Korean ballistic missiles are still being used to hit Ukrainian targets (and) there could be some reciprocity here that could affect security on the Korean peninsula,' National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

Ukraine did not immediately claim responsibility but it has carried out similar attacks on Russian energy facilities before

Officials did not say how many drones were involved in the attack

Video published by the emergencies ministry showed thick smoke and flames billowing out of what appeared to be multiple oil storage tanks in an undisclosed location

Highlighting those security concerns, South Korea said its troops fired at soldiers from the North who briefly crossed the border on Tuesday then retreated.

The South's military said it believed the North Korean soldiers accidentally crossed as they were fortifying the border, but said some of them were wounded after detonating landmines.

It comes as an overnight drone attack set several oil storage tanks ablaze near the town of Azov in southern Russia on Tuesday, sparking a large fire, local officials said.

Ukraine did not immediately claim responsibility but it has carried out similar attacks on Russian energy facilities before, arguing they are fair targets given that they fuel Moscow's military.

'Oil product tanks caught fire in Azov as a result of a drone attack. According to preliminary data, there were no casualties,' the governor of the local Rostov region, Vasily Golubev, said on Telegram.

Video published by the emergencies ministry showed thick smoke and flames billowing out of what appeared to be multiple oil storage tanks in an undisclosed location.

Officials did not say how many drones were involved in the attack.

Some 200 firefighters and emergency personnel were deployed to deal with the blaze, which spanned an area of at least 3,200 square metres (3,800 square yards), the emergencies ministry said.

The Rostov region sits directly across the border from Ukrainian and is home to the operational headquarters overseeing Russia's invasion.

On the battlefield, Ukraine said that Russian forces were fighting to enter the outskirts of Chasiv Yar, a flashpoint town of the war in the east whose capture could accelerate Russian advances.

Ukraine's eastern region of Donetsk, where war-scarred Chasiv Yar lies, has borne the brunt of fighting over more than two years and the Kremlin claims the region is part of Russia.

'The enemy keeps trying to advance to the microdistrict Novy in the town of Chasiv Yar,' Ukraine's military said in a briefing, adding that fighting was 'currently taking place'.

The South Korean military said it fired the shots to repel North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the rivals' land border

They said an estimated 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers, while engaging in unspecified construction work on the northern side of the border

Further south, it said Moscow's forces were also pushing towards Pokrovsk, where they were closing in on a key road that would complicate supplies between strategic hubs in the region.

Ukraine's air force meanwhile said it had downed 10 Iranian-designed attack drones launched by Russian forces overnight.

South Korea this morning revealed Multiple North Korean soldiers have been killed or injured in a landmine explosion inside the Demilitarized Zone as South Korea fired warning shots.

The South Korean military said it fired the shots to repel North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the rivals' land border for the second time this month.

They said an estimated 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers, while engaging in unspecified construction work on the northern side of the border, crossed the military demarcation line that bisects the countries at around 8.30am local time.

The North Korean soldiers then retreated after the South broadcasted warnings and fired shots, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, adding that they did not see any suspicious activity after.

As they fled, an unspecified number of North Korean soldiers were injured in a landmine explosion, the Yonhap News Agency reports, according to the AFP.

'North Korean military suffers multiple casualties due to a mine explosion during work,' the report said, without giving further details.

The Joint Chiefs said they don't believe the North Korean soldiers intruded the border intentionally and that the North did not return fire.

They noted that the North has been increasing construction activity in frontline border areas, such as installing suspected anti-tank barriers, reinforcing roads and planting land mines.
A museum could become the second cultural institution to restrict women from seeing 'sacred' artefacts as critics blast it as 'absurd virtue signalling'.

The Great North Museum: Hancock (GNM), in Newcastle, says in a raft of new policies that it will refuse to loan items that are not intended for women to see.

According to a policy document, some items deemed to be 'sacred' among the ethnographic collection could be hidden away and 'will not be used or displayed in any way that could upset or cause offence'.

The guidelines state 'if objects were originally made to be viewed only by a certain group of people such as the indigenous community or males only', museum leadership will 'decide on whether the objects should be viewed', reported The Telegraph.

Artefacts in the museum's 6,000-plus ethnography collection include objects made by the Maori, Zulus and Native Americans, along with Inuit and Aboriginal Australian religious items, which can have strictly gendered uses.

The Great North Museum: Hancock, in Newcastle, (pictured) could become the second cultural institution to restrict women from seeing 'sacred' artefacts

It comes after the University of Oxford was yesterday criticised for withdrawing an African mask from display at its The Pitt Rivers Museum

It comes after the University of Oxford was yesterday criticised for withdrawing an African mask from display to stop women seeing it due to a tribe's beliefs, with a professor labelling it as showing the 'absurdity of virtue signalling'.

According to The Telegraph, GNM documents state: 'The GNM will refuse loan requests of culturally restricted material for display purposes.

'Such items include, but are not restricted to, secret-sacred Australian Aboriginal objects that were intended to be viewed by men only.'

MailOnline has contacted GNM for comment.

Yesterday it emerged The Pitt Rivers Museum at the University of Oxford had labelled many of its exhibits with warnings about 'cultural safety' as well as removing images from its website.

Among those now missing from the online archive is a mask made by Nigeria's Igbo people and which was originally used in male-only rituals.

The museum said it wants to address issues raised by a collection 'closely tied to British Imperial expansion'.

This wooden mask is among the treasures still on display at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford

Other items have been removed from online show due to concerns about cultural sensitivity

Warnings have been attached to online images such as this 'isikara' head ornament

In response to the new online warnings, history professor Jeremy Black, whose books include A History Of The Atlantic, told MailOnline: 'Cultural safety - so-called - is a flawed idea that suggests that certain activists today, usually self-selected, have the monopoly of speaking about the past.

'The absurdity of virtue signalling continues apace as new conventions meet new obsessions.'

Various items on the museum's website now carry notes such as: 'Users are warned that there may be images, words and descriptions that may be culturally sensitive and which might not normally be used in certain public or community contexts.'

The wooden Igbo mask has no photographs which can be seen online and its listing is captioned with the words 'must not be seen by women'.

The website tells visitors: 'At the Pitt Rivers Museum, we take cultural safety seriously. We aim to keep everyone informed by providing a cultural advice notice.'

The mask has been labelled 'Must not be seen by women' and has no online photos, while a note adds that curators are 'unable to show the media publicly'.
The family of a missing British teenager in Tenerife have pleaded with kind strangers not to donate to fake fundraisers created in his name.

The 19-year-old travelled to the Canary Islands for the three-day 'New Rave Generation' (NRG) music festival with Lucy Mae and another friend last week.

On Sunday night, the apprentice bricklayer from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, left the party in south Tenerife with 'two English lads he met at a party' and went to their place 'for a few beers'.

But he disappeared after making a phone call to Lucy at around 8am on Monday, in which he sounded disorientated, was in desperate need of water and only had one per cent battery left on his phone.

His last known location was a mountainous area of Teno Rural Park, some 10 hours' walk away from his accommodation in the southern part of the island. He has not been seen or heard from since.

As widespread efforts continue to locate him, including national media attention and an official Facebook group set up for updates, cruel fraudsters have leapt on the opportunity and set up fake fundraisers in his name.

With around seven bogus GoFundMe pages set up so far, Jay's family have taken to social media to alert concerned strangers and say they are not connected to them.

Do YOU have information on missing Jay? Email megan.howe@mailonline.co.uk

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire,had travelled to the Canary Islands for a festival

Up to seven fake fundraising pages were reportedly set up and shared on Facebook

Pictured: A MailOnline graphic detailing the timeline of events from when Jay attended the three-day festival to his location when his phone died at around 8.50am on Monday

A Snapchat video shows Jay laughing at around 8.35pm on the night before he went missing

Show above is the missing teenager's last known location

His mother, Debbie Duncan has flown out to Tenerife to look for her son, but revealed how she has received vile calls from pranksters claiming to have kidnapped her son.

Using hidden numbers, the twisted Brits with 'northern accents' have phoned her to say they are holding her son ransom.

She said: 'Some of the phone calls I've been getting have been horrible. I just don't know why people would want to do things like this.'

Ms Duncan has also seen trolls posting false claims that Jay has been found safe and well, despite the search efforts still ongoing.

A Facebook group set up by the family called 'Jay Slater Missing' says: 'This is the only official 'missing Jay Slater' Facebook group. Jay's mother DOES NOT want a GoFundMe set up so DO NOT donate to one!!'

Several panicked members replied to say there are 'about seven' fake fundraisers people donated '100+' to. When MailOnline clicked on the links, they had all been taken down as of this morning.

Frantic posts about the fake fundraising page warn strangers not to donate

Jay travelled to the island for a festival and his last known location was the Teno Rural Park

The New Rave Generation festival is seen in video footage from the event

A final Snapchat video of the teen revealed he was smiling and laughing with his friend the night before he went missing in Tenerife.

Speaking from the south of the island where her son had been staying, Ms Duncan said: 'I'm obviously beside myself with worry which is why I've flown out here with my eldest son to do anything we can to help.

'We're just praying the police or someone finds Jay. I know there's a mountain rescue team out and a helicopter.

'Nothing's ever going to be enough when your youngest son's gone missing but it sounds as if the police here are taking this very seriously and doing the best job they can.'

He'd been at a three-day festival so he would have consumed a fair bit of alcohol but Jay was Snapchatting with friends before he went missing and seemed very compos mentis.

'I just think it was a question of him not knowing the island well enough because it was his first time here and being a bit disorientated when it came to distances and not realising it was a 10-hour walk from where he went missing to his holiday accommodation.

'I know the last place he spoke to his friend Lucy from was in the mountains and I think the police have got a more precise location now.'

Lucy Mae said of Jay: 'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere'

Jay's friend Lucy reported Jay missing to police and launched search efforts

Debbie said: 'I've been getting lots of prank calls. It's sickening. People ringing me and saying they've got Jay because he owes them money.

'But it's not putting me off and I want to keep this in the news because it's going to increase the chances of Jay being found safe and well which is obviously what we're praying for.'

Jay was last heard from early Monday morning when he called Lucy to say he was trying to walk back from the apartment, having been unable to catch a bus.

Lucy recounted how a confused Jay told her that his phone battery was on one per cent, that he needed a drink of water and 'didn't know where he was'.

His phone then died around 8:50am, with his last known location registered in the 'Rural de Teno' park, close to the PR-TF51 hiking trail, several hundred feet above the small village of Masca.

Jay travelled to the Canary Islands for this past weekend's 'New Rave Generation' festival

Jay was reported missing on Sunday morning by friend Lucy Mae

This is a mountainous area that is popular with hikers but very exposed and far away from heavily populated centres, and there have not yet been any reported sightings of the teen.

Officers meanwhile said they were doing 'everything they could' to help find Jay.

Police reportedly dispatched a mountain rescue team to the area, but they are yet to have found any trace of the missing teen.

Lucy added that she has spoken to the people with whom Jay was staying on Sunday night.

She said the claimed the teen had left their apartment at around 8am Monday morning to 'catch a bus', but gave no further information.

'I've never been so worried in my life. I was there all yesterday, a lovely lady messaged me on Facebook and said she had hired a car and would drive me up there', Lucy added.

'We were there all of yesterday, we were driving around looking around everywhere, looking in all the nooks and crannies.'

Jay was last seen wearing a white t-shirt with shorts and trainers. He was also believed to be carrying a black bag.

Jay had attended the New Rave Generation music festival in Tenerife over the weekend

Jay is seen in this image shared to his friend Lucy's social media days before he disappeared

Jay is pictured right with mother Debbie and brother Zak who flew out to help rescue efforts

A spokesman for a regional emergency coordination centre said: 'The Civil Guard are coordinating this operation because they're responsible for investigations involving missing people.

'We're acting as support to them and they're the ones who are asking for more resources as and when they feel they're needed.

'The Civil Guard is involved as well as firefighters and Civil Protection workers who have two drones.

'Yesterday a regional government helicopter was mobilised but today it's a Civil Guard helicopter as well as the Greim mountain specialist team.

'The alert about this missing youngster was received at four minutes past 9am yesterday and the search began soon after and went on into the night.

'My understanding is this man has subsequently been formally reported as missing to the police.'

A FCDO spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.'

A GoFundMe spokesperson said: 'Our hearts go out to Jay Slater, his family and everyone else concerned about his disappearance. All campaigns are under review and no money will be transferred unless we can verify it goes straight to his family.

'At moments like this, we often see people set up campaigns to benefit strangers when they are moved to help. That is why we work with organisers to ensure any money donated goes to the right place.

'GoFundMe has a dedicated Trust & Safety team reviewing all relevant fundraisers. In addition to the team of experts, we deploy proprietary technical tools and have multiple processes in place to verify the identity of organizers and the recipient of the fundraiser.
Two Greens councillors have sparked a community outcry after they backflipped on a promise to support more play equipment for a playground dubbed 'Melbourne's saddest' because it would mean the space would have less grass.

Despite mayor Edward Crossland and former mayor Sophie Wade's last minute change of heart, Yarra City Council voted 5-2 to support a $250,000 allocation for play equipment in the Cambridge Street park in inner-city Melbourne.

The Collingwood reserve attracted national headlines when it was reopened last November after a $2million 'upgrade'.

Local parents were dismayed that although the grassed area had been doubled, there were three minimalist metallic bits of play equipment.

Gone were the previous jungle gym with a slippery slide, two swings and a spring rocker that were shaded by trees.

They were replaced by a single nest swing, balancing beam and monkey bars.

Parents have slammed City of Yarra Council for a $2million park upgrade that replaced a children's playground with an 'uninviting' swing (pictured), balance beam and monkey bars

A slide, four-way rocker, mini trampoline and other play equipment are yet to be installed.

A petition calling for the council to reverse the changes and reintroduce the old playground quickly garnered more than 600 signatures.

Local mum Brielle Pope, who has a two-year-old daughter, said she was 'absolutely appalled' that the Greens broke their promise to support bringing back the play equipment.

'The Greens absolutely cannot be trusted,' Ms Pope posted on Facebook.

'I'm shocked that Sophie, who's standing in Collingwood in the upcoming election, has basically just sealed her fate to lose the vote from families that reside in this ward.

'Putting 7 per cent of grass space ahead of children is disgusting, especially with their so-called inclusive values.'

Despite pledging that he would support the reintroduction of more play equipment Yarra City Mayor Edward Crossland voted against it

Yarra City Greens councillor and former mayor Sophie Wade also voted against reintroducing play equipment

Yarra Residents Collective spokesman Adam Promnitz slammed council over the debacle.

'This is an expensive blunder that caused national embarrassment to the council,' hetold the Herald Sun.

'Yarra has had to sheepishly admit that it got this horrendously wrong.'

In November, a council spokesperson defended the project, claiming that during consultation a majority of locals expressed a desire for an open green space, which they delivered on.

'In a suburb such as Collingwood which only has 0.3 per cent open space, expanding the size of the park was a major driver for the park's design,' the spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.

'Council has responded to the needs of the community by building a new park that is double its original size.

'Only five of the 171 people who responded requested traditional play equipment.'

Parent are calling for the reintroduction of play equipment in the inner Melbourne Cambridge St park. Pictured is the park before the upgrade

Ms Pope said the original consultation only offered four 'flawed' options and did not properly canvass the views of locals.

'It wasn't presented in a way that enabled people to provide feedback,' she said.

'We weren't given the option to suggest alternatives.'

She said council should have admitted it 'messed up' and added more equipment immediately.

'I can assure you that the money would have been better spent putting it towards equipment in the first place,' she said.

The council has also overseen two more park upgrades in Collingwood and Richmond.
Australia Post has issued a grovelling apology after a delivery driver was fined for parking their van in a disabled spot during a 'lapse of judgement'.

The StarTrack truck was spotted partially parked in a reserved spot directly in front of a designated disabled space on Hunting Tower Road in Armadale in inner-city Melbourne on Tuesday.

A shocked passer-by took and shared a photo which went viral on social media which has since been deleted.

Australia Post, who owns StarTrack, confirmed the driver was fined by parking inspectors, which will be paid by the postal giant.

It's understood the driver left the van unattended for six minutes to make a delivery and has since expressed remorse for the incident.

A StarTrack driver was fined for parking in a disabled spot while delivering a package on Hunting Tower Road in Armadale, Melbourne, on Tuesday (pictured)

Australia Post has since reminded its drivers of its protocols when delivering packages.

An Australia Post spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia that the driver had a 'lapse in judgement' and apologised for the blunder.

'We recognise and respect that accessible parking bays must be kept available for the people who need them,' the spokesperson said.

'Our posties and drivers comply immediately with any direct requests from local authorities, and there is no circumstance in which we would pay a fine as an alternative to moving a vehicle.'

StarTrack was initially operated by both Australia Post and Qantas who both held a half of its shared until Australia Post took full control in 2012.

Despite operating as a different arm of Australia Post, both services have had access to a dedicated fleet of six freight aircraft flown by Qantas since 2016.
Do YOU know if you've been filmed? Email richard.percival@mailonline.co.uk

A privacy row broke out today after it emerged that Network Rail has been secretly using Amazon's AI technology to secretly monitor thousands of rail passengers at major stations across the UK.

Campaigners last night accused the Government-owned company of displaying a 'contempt for our rights' by secretly installing AI-powered surveillance at rail hubs across Britain.

It is feared that thousands of people have had their faces recorded with 'smart' CCTV cameras to establish their age, gender and emotions at London Waterloo and Euston stations, as well as Manchester Piccadilly, Leeds, Glasgow, Reading, Dawlish , Dawlish Warren and Marsden stations.

The scheme has been taking place for two years, with the data sent to Amazon Rekognition, according to a Freedom of Information request obtained by civil rights group Big Brother Watch.

Big Brother Watch last night warned that 'AI-powered surveillance could put all our privacy at risk' - adding that Network Rail had shown a 'contempt for our rights'.

Network Rail started the trials in 2022 with the aim of improving customer service and enhancing passenger safety (file image of London Liverpool Street station)

Cameras placed at ticket barriers at mainline railway stations across the country analyse customers faces (file image)

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) previously warned companies against using the technology.

What to do if you think you have been filmed?

Under UK law, people have the right to request CCTV footage of themselves. The individuals needs to make a request to the owner of the CCTV system. They can do this either in writing or verbally. However, the Network Rail scheme does not include facial recognition technology which is used to identify a person so may have difficulty obtaining any footage. Owners of CCTV cameras can also refuse to share any footage if other people can be seen in it. Meanwhile, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has urged organisations to assess the public risk before using such technology, and warned that any firms which do not act responsibly, pose a risk to vulnerable people or fail to meet ICO expectations will be investigated. People that are unhappy about being filmed could complain to Network Rail first to give them a chance to resolve any privacy related issues followed by the ICO if the matter remains unresolved. ICO guidance states: 'You should give the organisation you're unhappy with a chance to sort things out before bringing your complaint to us. 'Many data protection complaints can be resolved quickly and easily with the organisation.' Advertisement

They also said the technologies are 'immature' and 'they may not work yet, or indeed ever.'

Jake Hurfurt, Head of Research & Investigations at Big Brother Watch, said: 'Network Rail had no right to deploy discredited emotion recognition technology against unwitting commuters at some of Britain's biggest stations, and I have submitted a complaint to the Information Commissioner about this trial.

'It is alarming that as a public body it decided to roll out a large scale trial of Amazon-made AI surveillance in several stations with no public awareness, especially when Network Rail mixed safety tech in with pseudoscientific tools and suggested the data could be given to advertisers.'

'Technology can have a role to play in making the railways safer, but there needs to be a robust public debate about the necessity and proportionality of tools used.

'AI-powered surveillance could put all our privacy at risk, especially if misused, and Network Rail's disregard of those concerns shows a contempt for our rights.'

Carissa Veliz, an associate professor in psychology at the Institute for Ethics in AI at the University of Oxford, told Wired: 'Systems that do not identify people are better than those that do, but I do worry about a slippery slope.

'There is a very instinctive drive to expand surveillance. Human beings like seeing more, seeing further. But surveillance leads to control, and control to a loss of freedom that threatens liberal democracies'.

Speaking in 2022, the ICO's deputy commissioner Stephen Bonner said: 'Developments in the biometrics and emotion AI market are immature. They may not work yet, or indeed ever.'

'While there are opportunities present, the risks are currently greater.

'At the ICO, we are concerned that incorrect analysis of data could result in assumptions and judgments about a person that are inaccurate and lead to discrimination.

'The only sustainable biometric deployments will be those that are fully functional, accountable and backed by science.

'As it stands, we are yet to see any emotion AI technology develop in a way that satisfies data protection requirements, and have more general questions about proportionality, fairness and transparency in this area.

Civil liberties group Big Brother Watch have raised privacy concerns about the Network Rail scheme and have submitted a complaint to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) (file image of Carlisle railway station)

London Euston is one of the stations where the cameras have been placed

'The ICO will continue to scrutinise the market, identifying stakeholders who are seeking to create or deploy these technologies, and explaining the importance of enhanced data privacy and compliance, whilst encouraging trust and confidence in how these systems work.'

AI researchers have also warned that using the technology to detect emotions is 'unreliable' and should be banned.

In the EU such systems are banned or deemed 'high risk' under the Artificial Intelligence Act.

Gregory Butler, chief executive of Purple Transform, which constructed the trial for Network Rail, said that although the trial continued, the part looking at emotions and demographics had been short-lived.

The cameras were also part of a wider trial to use AI to tackle issues such as trespassing, overcrowding, bicycle theft and slippery floors.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: 'We take the security of the rail network extremely seriously and use a range of advanced technologies across our stations to protect passengers, our colleagues, and the railway infrastructure from crime and other threats.

'When we deploy technology, we work with the police and security services to ensure that we're taking proportionate action, and we always comply with the relevant legislation regarding the use of surveillance technologies.'

However, in a later statement, they said no analysis of emotions took place, adding: 'The purpose of the trial was never to gather emotion data, the capability was removed before the technology was trialled as there wasnt a want or need for it.'

The system did send images for analysis by Amazon Rekognition software to record demographic details, such as a passengers gender and age range, but that part of the programme has now ended.

Amazon did not comment on the scheme.
Shocking footage has emerged of French police officers standing by and snapping photos as migrants, including children, waded into the sea and scrambled into dinghies to attempt the perilous Channel crossing.

Dozens of migrants were seen desperately trying to haul themselves into a black rubber inflatable boat that already appeared overloaded off the shores of Dunkirk.

The troubling scene is a regular occurrence now on beaches along France's north-western coastline - but this incident unfolded in full view of a gaggle of French cops who appeared completely unperturbed.

At least six officers were seen standing haplessly on the sand watching the scene unfold in footage captured by Sky News, several of whom took out their smartphones to take pictures and videos of the struggling migrants.

The officers evidently had no interest in either helping or preventing the migrants, some of whom were seen clutching their infant children and holding them above the churning seawater as they tried to climb into the packed dinghy.

It comes as 882 migrants were brought into British shores yesterday - the most in one day so far this year - as people smugglers took advantage of the sea's calm condition and good weather.

Those crossings took the total number of people that have arrived into the UK on small boats this year to an estimated 12,313.

Migrants try to help one another into a badly overloaded dinghy

French police stand by and record on their iPhone as smugglers pick up migrant families

Dozens of migrants attempt to pile into a boat as people smugglers watch on

A French policeman watches the drama unfold through the lens of his iPhone

A boat carrying some two dozen migrants sets sail for British shores from Dunkirk

Since January 1, more than 11,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel on small boats

Fifteen boats are thought to have crossed the Channel on Tuesday, working out to an average of a whopping 59 people per boat, according to Sky News.

The provisional total of 12,313 migrant arrivals on small boats so far this year is considerably higher than the equivalent total at this point in 2023, which stood at 10,472.

RNLI lifeboats and Border Force Vessels were sent out at 4am yesterday morning to round up men, women and children as they arrived into the Port of Dover.

One dinghy is understood to have got into difficulties in the Channel with some people falling into the water, but there are not thought to have been any casualties.

Tuesday also saw a second failed asylum seeker paid 3,000 by the Government to be relocated to Rwanda, with another set to follow later this week.

The latest Home Office figures show that 184 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats in the seven days up to Monday, meaning more than 125,000 have arrived in the UK in the last six-and-a-half years.

Since the Government struck the deal to send migrants to Rwanda more than two years ago - which has since stalled amid legal challenges - more than 80,000 people have made the journey.

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'We continue to work closely with our French partners to prevent crossings and save lives.'

A spokesperson for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency added: 'HM Coastguard has been coordinating the response to small boats crossing the Channel this morning, June 18.

'RNLI lifeboats and UK Border Force vessels were sent.'

Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak told broadcasters this week that the fact young children were crossing the Channel was 'desperately sad' and demonstrated why his Rwanda policy needed to be implemented.

Dozens of migrants could be seen leaving a Border Force catamaran wearing orange life jackets

RNLI lifeboats and Border Force Vessels were seen rounding up men, women and children as they arrived into the Port of Dover

An overloaded dinghy of migrants crossing the Channel to the UK in April

Rishi Sunak (pictured riding on a boat in the harbour of Clovelly) told broadcasters this week that the fact young children were crossing the Channel was 'desperately sad'

Sunak said: 'It's desperately sad to see young children being put in these very dangerous situations, making these crossings, which illustrates why we have to stop the boats, something I'm determined to do and have a clear plan to do so.

'If re-elected as Prime Minister, the flights will go to Rwanda, we will build that deterrent, removing the incentive for people to come here in the first place.'

In March, the Home Office confirmed the voluntary relocation plan to Rwanda was open to anyone caught in Britain with no right to be here.

A month later, the first failed asylum seeker was paid 3,000 to be relocated to Rwanda.

The 3,000 payment is part of a voluntary programme that saw the second person fly to Kigali on Tuesday, with another person set to follow in the coming days.

The programme is separate from the Rwanda scheme to forcibly relocate small boat migrants, which remains mired in uncertainty given Labour's pledge to axe it if Sir Keir Starmer wins the general election.
Do you know more? Email stephen.gibbs@mailonline.com

Site is 12km south of where Lynette Simms disappeared

Suspected human remains have been located on a building site on Sydney's northern beaches, and locals have been told to keep quiet about the find.

A NSW Police spokesman said officers attended a construction site on South Creek Road, Cromer, about 10.45am on Wednesday and several bones were excavated.

'The bones have been taken for forensic examination to determine if they are human,' the spokesman said. 'Inquiries continue.'

Sources told Daily Mail Australia that police had asked local residents not to discuss the discovery and that workers had been told not to return to the site.

Locals had heard a skull was among the bones found during a building renovation, and the remains indicated evidence of a homicide.

The victims of several notorious missing persons cases were last known to have been seen in the northern beaches area.

Suspected human remains have been located on a building site on South Creek Road, Cromer (pictured)

Mother-of-two Lynette Simms vanished without trace from the Bayview home she shared with husband Chris Dawson in January 1982.

Cromer is about 12km south of Bayview and 13km south of Newport, from where 18-year-old Trudie Adams disappeared in February 1978.

There is no indication at this stage the bones could belong to Ms Simms or Ms Adams.

Chris Dawson was found guilty of murdering his wife in August 2022 and jailed for a minimum 18 years.
An angry driver chased down a female motorist and forced her to stop in the middle of a motorway before jumping onto her car bonnet during a terrifying road rage row.

Craig Prunty, 39, caused police to close off two lanes of a motorway after he launched himself onto a woman's moving car in a fit of rage over him pranging his new BMW.

The man, of Stockport, Greater Manchester, brought traffic grinding to a halt when he threw a temper tantrum at the wheel of his grey 150mph 5-series vehicle after he crashed into a set of bollards when Gillian Shea pulled out in front of him.

Initially the father-of-three stopped in the carriageway to exchange details, but was then seen throwing the bollards aside before shouting at Miss Shea: 'What the f*** are you doing?'

Craig Prunty, 39, chased down Gillian Shea and forced her to stop in the middle of a motorway before jumping onto her car bonnet during a terrifying road rage row

The aftermath of the incident shows police at the scene as two lanes were closed off

When she drove off in fright, he chased her along the M56 Westbound between Junction 6 and 7 near Hale Barns, Cheshire, before drawing up parallel to her Kia Nero as the pair were travelling at a speed of up to 50mph.

As other motorists looked on in shock, Prunty lowered his car window and began beeping his horn at Miss Shea, demanding she stop on the hard shoulder, before then edging his BMW towards the Kia to force her to pull over.

In a desperate attempt, Prunty overtook Miss Shea in the middle lane and stopped in front of her, causing traffic behind her to grind to a halt.

He got out of his car again and shook his fist whilst stood in the middle of the busy carriageway.

The former trucker had only purchased the BMW six months prior to the incident, and had been living in the vehicle after losing his job, breaking up with his partner and moving out of his family home

Miss Shea attempted to make an escape but Prunty jumped onto the bonnet of her moving car and fell into the road, forcing police to close two lanes of the motorway causing severe delays.

Prunty was treated for an injured leg and taken to hospital.

Appearing at Chester Crown Court, the former trucker who had bought the BMW only six months earlier revealed he had been living in the vehicle after losing his job, breaking up with his partner and moving out of his family home in Hazel Grove, near Stockport.

He had previously posted pictures of the vehicle on Facebook saying: 'I work my a**e off so might as well have something to show for it.'

He claimed he had been following Miss Shea to get a picture of her car on his mobile phone as he wanted to report her driving to police and his hand was shaking as he was 'upset.'

Prunty, who now lives in a one bedroomed flat in Brinnington, Stockport, faced up to 18 months jail after he admitted dangerous driving, but was sentenced to ten months in prison, suspended for 18 months, after filing a basis of plea giving his own version of events which was read out at the hearing.

Prunty pictured recovering in hospital after jumping onto the bonnet of Miss Shea's moving car and injuring himself

The judge commented that it was 'astonishing' that no accidents were caused as a result of his stopping in the middle of the carriageway.

Judge Steven Everett warned: 'The reality is that there was always that risk that if somebody hit the back of her car, somebody could have been killed.

'If somebody had been killed, I would be sending you to prison for a very long time indeed.'

The incident on December 20, 2022, took place when Prunty was travelling along the A555 near Manchester Airport at 10.30am.

No statement giving Miss Sheas side was aired in court.

In mitigation for Prunty who injured his left leg falling off the car, defence counsel Emily Woodside said: 'He has described this as a foolish mistake and he made a fool of himself that day - but this incident was a tipping point due to the stresses in his personal life.

'He had lost his job and his relationship ended and he did not have stable accommodation at that time. Prior to that he had been living in that very car. He had not seen his children in a couple of months and he was having significant family issues. It was a period of being under severe pressure. It was a breaking point and given that his car was his only asset there was an overreaction to what occurred.

'He has reflected on his actions and knows it was wrong and should have responded differently. Mr Prunty was injured when he came off the bonnet. He claims that he experiences daily pain which is a constant reminder of what happened. He cannot work or drive because of the pain.

The 39-year-old was sentenced to ten months in prison, suspended for 18 months, after filing a basis of plea giving his own version of events which was read out at the hearing

'In the 18 months since the incident things are better and he is in a more stable situation. He is someone who wants to get back to work and he wants a better life for himself.'

Prunty was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work, attend 25 days of rehabilitation activity and was banned from driving for 12 months. A charge against him of using threatening behaviour towards Miss Shea was dropped.

In his plea basis he said: 'There was heavy traffic and it was busy and I moved over to the left lane for the slip road.

'But as I approached the bend I saw a blue car pull in front of a van from the hard shoulder, manoeuvred quickly and then went in front of me.

'As a result I had to take evasive action to avoid contacting the blue vehicle and I quickly considered whether I should stop or try and accelerate past the vehicle to make myself safe.

'I did not make a dangerous manoeuvre but as I tried to accelerate around the vehicle, I did hit some road cones which damaged my vehicle and I then stopped my car.

'There was only one lane and at this point I stopped in between the active lane and the chevrons.

In his plea basis, Prunty said he had no intention of trying to locate the vehicle in order to exact any revenge or cause any distress to the driver

'I expected the driver of the blue vehicle to stop and exchange her details as she had caused me to make a manoeuvre which had damaged my vehicle. I got out of my car and looked at the damage and the driver of the blue vehicle just sat there. I made a comment along the lines of "what the f*** are you doing ?" as I was upset.

'But the driver of the other vehicle then drove through the cones to get away from me. I did not go near the blue vehicle or try to approach it in an intimidating manner.

'I remained near my car at all times so I was not close to the blue vehicle and I believe that I was more than a car length away from the blue vehicle. I was trying to remove the cones from the front of my vehicle and I was throwing them to the side to remove them.

'The driver of the blue vehicle smiled at me in a patronising manner and she drove past me on the passenger side and I decided the best course of action would be to try and find the blue vehicle in order to obtain the details so that I could report the incident.

'I had no intention of trying to locate the vehicle in order to exact any revenge or cause any distress to the driver. I did not drive at excessive speed to try and find the driver of the blue vehicle and in any event on that part of the motorway there were road works so there was a maximum speed limit of 50 mph.

'When I came across the blue vehicle it was in the middle lane and vehicles were undertaking the driver and other vehicles were behind her.

'I drove up to the side of her and beeped my horn, my window was down, I was not aggressive but I confirmed that she would need to pull over and she just laughed at me and I could see that she was mothing the words "f*** off, and she also gestured this.

'This happened for 10 seconds or less and the driver refused to pull over and stayed in the middle lane so I put my indicator on and tried to get her to go into the slow lane by slightly veering my vehicle towards her. I did not want to make contact or damage her vehicle but I was trying to encourage her to pull over. I then pulled into the middle lane and brought my vehicle to a stop and everything behind stopped.'

'I got out of my vehicle with my phone with the intention of taking a photograph of the vehicle but my hand was shaking and I could not take a proper photograph. The driver of the blue vehicle then reversed and pulled off and drove at me and I had no choice but to get onto the bonnet of the vehicle because if I had stayed where I was, I did not expect her to stop and I would have been run over.

'I expected her to stop when I got to the bonnet of her vehicle but she continued to drive. After she had continued to drive with me on the bonnet, I took the decision to roll off the bonnet as I was frightened for my life and I did not know what else to do.'

The judge told the father-of-three that it is 'astonishing nobody went into the back of her and hit you' as he warned 'somebody could have been killed' because of his stopping in the middle lane of the motorway

Judge Steven Everett told him: 'It is not for me to look at the rights and wrongs of what happened between you and the complainant but it became clear on that day while you were on the M56 motorway you became very angry with her driving.

'Whatever your views about what she did, what you should not have done was get in front of her, trying to push her across the road and then stopping in lane two. That is a truly dangerous thing to do.

'You stopped in the middle lane of the motorway when you should not have done in what was a fit of temper at what had happened. It is astonishing nobody went into the back of her and hit you.

'It is astonishing that she did not crash into somebody when you were trying to push her across the road.

'The M56 is a busy motorway. The reality is that there was always that risk that if somebody hit the back of her car, somebody could have been killed.

'If somebody had been killed, I would be sending you to prison for a very long time indeed.

'Fortunately for her and everybody else on that motorway that day, happily no one was injured. You can thank your lucky stars that did not happen. Otherwise, the consequences for you and for her would have been very much worse.'
Megan Fan Munce is a reporter on the climate team covering Californias home insurance crisis. She writes about the California FAIR Plan; State Farm non-renewals; pullbacks by other insurers such as Allstate and Farmers; policy initiatives from the California Department of Insurance; and how homeowners in the Bay Area and elsewhere are navigating the challenges.

Munce first joined the San Francisco Chronicle as part of the two-year Hearst Journalism Fellowship, spending her first year of the program at the Houston Chronicle. She grew up in San Jose before attending Northwestern Universitys Medill School of Journalism.
A Coronation Street star has issued a desperate plea to help find Jay Slater after the 19-year-old Briton went missing after a music festival in Tenerife.

Vicky Entwistle, who famously played Janice Battersby on the ITV soap, says she 'hope to God they find him' as she prays for the missing apprentice bricklayer's return.

Jay is the 55-year-old actress' godmother's grandson and she said she knows 'the authorities are pulling out all the stops to find him' and 'that gives us some hope he will be found'.

She posted one of the missing posters of Jay on X/Twitter alongside a message that says: 'My God Mother's Grandson has gone missing. His Mother has flown out 7pm. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please pray for him.'

Jay travelled to the Canary Islands for the three-day 'New Rave Generation' (NRG) music festival with Lucy Mae and another friend last week.

Brit Jay Slater, 19, has gone missing in Tenerife after he travelled to the island for a music festival

Coronation Street star Vicky Entwistle has issued a desperate plea to find him. Jay is her godmother's grandson

The 55-year-old actress posted a photo of a missing poster of Jay alongside a message that read: 'Hope to God they find him'

On Sunday night, Jay, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, left the party in South Tenerife with 'two English lads he met at a party' and went to their place 'for a few beers'.

But he disappeared after making a phone call to Lucy at around 8am on Monday, in which he sounded disorientated, was in desperate need of water and only had one per cent battery left on his phone.

His last known location was a mountainous area of Teno Rural Park, some 10 hours' walk away from his accommodation in the southern part of the island. He has not been seen or heard from since.

Jay's mother Debbie Duncan and brother Zak flew out to Tenerife on Tuesday after police broke the news of his disappearance in the early hours of the morning.

After touching down yesterday, she said she is 'beside herself with worry'.

Speaking from the south of the island where her son had been staying, mother Debbie said: 'I'm obviously beside myself with worry which is why I've flown out here with my eldest son to do anything we can to help.

'We're just praying the police or someone finds Jay. I know there's a mountain rescue team out and a helicopter.

'Nothing's ever going to be enough when your youngest son's gone missing but it sounds as if the police here are taking this very seriously and doing the best job they can.'

Debbie added: 'He'd been at a three-day festival so he would have consumed a fair bit of alcohol but Jay was snapchatting with friends before he went missing and seemed very compos mentis.

'I just think it was a question of him not knowing the island well enough because it was his first time here and being a bit disorientated when it came to distances and not realising it was a 10-hour walk from where he went missing to his holiday accommodation.

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, travelled to the Canary Islands for a musical festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Slater had attended the New Rave Generation music festival in Tenerife over the weekend

Jay is pictured right alongside mother Debbie and brother Zak who flew out to Tenerife amid rescue efforts

'I know the last place he spoke to his friend Lucy from was in the mountains and I think the police have got a more precise location now.'

Speaking to the Manchester Evening News about Jay's disappearance, a scared Lucy said: 'He's gone on a night out, he's gone to a friend's house, someone that he has met on holiday.

'One of the people he has met has hired a car out of here, so he's driven them back to his apartment and Jay has gone there not realising how far away it is.

'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there.

'But then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around.

'He rang me saying his phone was on 1 per cent, he said ''I don't know where I am, I need a drink and my phone is about to die''.'

Lucy said she is frantically searching for her friend on the island, having made several reports to local police in Tenerife and made contact with the British Embassy.

Meanwhile back in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, Jay's stepdad Andy Watson told how police officers knocked on their door in the early hours of the morning today to inform them of the teen's predicament.

'It was about 2.30am in the early,' Andy Watson, 63, told LancsLive. 'When the police said ''the best thing you can do is get yourself out there'' we knew it was bad. This was his first holiday on his own. I'm just hoping he's gone to another party.'

Andy later said in an interview with the Sun: 'It's really worrying. It feels like a blur at the moment.

'Jay is very street wise and he's no mug but if it was dark and he had no touch on his phone he could have gone the wrong way and become more lost than he was.'

As widespread efforts continue to locate him, including national media attention and an official Facebook group set up for updates, cruel fraudsters have leapt on the opportunity and set up fake fundraisers in his name.

Revellers are seen partying at the New Rave Generation festival

Jay's friend Lucy reported Jay missing to police and search efforts have been launched to find him

Lucy Mae said of Jay: 'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there... then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around'

With around seven bogus GoFundMe pages set up so far, Jay's family have taken to social media to alert concerned strangers and say they are not connected to them.

Debbie revealed how she has received vile calls from pranksters claiming to have kidnapped her son.

Using hidden numbers, the twisted Brits with 'northern accents' have phoned her to say they are holding her son ransom.

She said: 'Some of the phone calls I've been getting have been horrible. I just don't know why people would want to do things like this.'

Ms Duncan has also seen trolls posting false claims that Jay has been found safe and well, despite the search efforts still ongoing.
A man has been arrested after police locked down a suburb in search of a gunman who allegedly shot dead a woman and wounded another man.

Emergency services were called to a home on Robb Place in South Mackay in central Queensland just after 4.30pm on Wednesday following reports a woman had been shot.

She was declared dead at the scene while another man was found with non-fatal injuries to his hand.

Police issued a Public Safety Preservation Act about 5.20pm, locking down an area bound by Robb Place and Paradise, Archibald, Kindermar and Denton streets.

A 31-year-old man was taken into custody about 7.45pm outside a fast-food restaurant along the Bruce Highway, near Hinton Street, police confirmed.

He wasn't injured and is currently assisting police with investigations. No charges have yet been laid.

An emergency situation was declared as police searched for a gunman who allegedly shot and killed a woman and injured a man in South Mackay (pictured, police at the scene)

Police issued a Public Safety Preservation Act at about 5.20pm, locking down an area bound by Robb place and Paradise, Archibald, Kindermar and Denton streets (pictured)

The exclusion area remains in place, despite the arrest.

Members of the public have been urged to avoid the exclusion area while residents have been told to stay indoors until further notice.

The woman was allegedly shot in the head while the man had a bullet wound to his hand, the Courier Mail reported.

Images from the scene show police diverting traffic as officers swarm the area.

Queensland Police thanked residents affected by the emergency situation for their 'patience and understanding while this matter is ongoing'.

Anyone with information has been urged to contact police.
A manhunt has been launched to track down a brazen thief who stole hundreds of dollars worth of sex toys and lingerie at an adult store.

CCTV captured the man breaking into and entering the Adult Bliss Erotic Boutique in Glen Osmond in Adelaide's east at around 3.30am on May 23.

The break-in caused $3,000 worth of damage on top of $2,000 of stolen goods.

Devastated store co-owner Simon Mawson told Daily Mail Australia the thief initially approached the display window, then left.

'Then about 15 minutes later, they've come back with a screwdriver and or some kind of implement and they've smashed the bottom part of the window and kicked it in with their foot and started grabbing stuff out of the display,' he said.

'I think the first time they realised that they don't really have anything to carry anything with them, they go off, and they come back with a bag, and it looks like they clear out most of the window in that trip and then have come back to get the last little bit.'

CCTV captured a man breaking into the Adult Bliss Erotic Boutique (pictured) on Glen Osmond Road in Adelaide's eastern suburbs

In three trips, the thief stole everything on display in the window including vibrators, sex toys, lingerie and erotic-related products including a whip and a riding crop.

Mr Mawson claimed the thief also disassembled the mannequin in the window, undressing lingerie and stole its handcuff-donned hand.

'Instead of opening the handcuff, he's just twisted the hand off the mannequin and taken the whole thing that was on the mannequin,' Mr Mawson said.

'I think the whole thing lasted about 25 minutes.

'He was at the store for, I think, about a total of roughly about 10 minutes. People walk past, and he kind of hides behind the bin at one point.'

The break in was not discovered until staff arrived the next morning.

'He was at the store for, I think, about a total of roughly about 10 minutes. People walk past, and he kind of hides behind the bin at one point,' Mr Mawson said

Mr Mawson claimed the thief even disassembled the mannequin in the window, undressing lingerie and even took the mannequin's hand that was wearing handcuffs

Mr Mawson was surprised by the robbery at the store located in a usually safe area.

'I've been working at this store for almost 10 years, and I've owned it for the past five years, and we've never even had an attempt for someone to break in. Nothing like this has ever happened before,' he said.

'We're a small business. This is me and my partner,' Mr Mawson said.

'We've got two staff members and and our customers, our community.

'We've got a really strong, loyal customer base. And when something like this happens, it just kind of feels like a bit of a violation.'

'We've got a really strong, loyal customer base. And when something like this happens, it just kind of feels like a bit of a violation,' said Mr Mawson (pictured with co-owner Monique Turmine)

Mr Mawson said the thief was lucky there was a fault in the shop's alarm system.

'I think he once he broke in the window, he realised that the alarm hadn't gone off.

'I think he thought, 'I can take my time now, as long as I don't head to the actual store.''

The window display had only been a recent addition.

'It's not something we felt comfortable doing up until recently, mostly just because, you know, product packaging has changed so much in our industry that most of its PG now, so we actually have the ability to sort of put some stuff on on display without offending too many people,' Mr Mawson said.

'We try to be considerate, because we don't want to upset anyone, of course.'

He's waiting to hear back from his insurance company.

Apart from the $2,000 worth of stock stolen, he said it would cost around $3,000 to repair the damaged window and additional costs to upgrade the security system.

South Australia Police are investigating the incident and urge anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers.
A little eight-year-old boy was left 'screaming in agony' after being tear-gassed by French police when his family got caught up in a pro-Palestine protest in Paris.

Lawrence's mother Radia Austin, 46, questioned if the city is a safe place to host the Olympics after he was left with acute eye problems.

She said the schoolboy was left screaming in agony after police 'blindly' threw tear gas canisters into the crowd of protesters.

Radia, Lawrence, and father Paul, 45, were returning to their apartment nearby when one of the canisters landed at his feet.

She said that despite approaching the police for help they were simply told to 'wash his eyes'.

Two weeks on, she says Lawrence is still struggling with throbbing pain is his eyes and is booked in to see a specialist.

A little eight-year-old boy was left 'screaming in agony' after being tear-gassed by French police when his family got caught up in a pro-Palestine protest in Paris

Lawrence was left screaming in agony after police 'blindly' threw tear gas canisters into the crowd of protesters

The pro-Palestine protest in Paris where Lawrence was injured

Radia, from Betchworth, Surrey, said: 'It was scary and traumatic - we felt our eyes burning and it was hard to breathe but my biggest concern was my little one.

'We just had to cross the road to get to our apartment but as we were crossing we heard boom sounds and next thing the gas came out.

'Before you know it you can't breathe and your eyes are burning, people start shouting and my son started screaming.

'All I did was walk back to the police and said 'help us please, my son is in agony,' but he just stared at us and didn't help me.

'Since then he has had a lot of shouty nightmares at night and keeps asking why the police did this to him.'

Radia, an English interpreter, Paul, a lawyer, and Lawrence visited the French capital from May 25 to May 28 during half term.

After visiting the Eiffel Tower they returned to their apartment to find a pro-Palestine protest nearby and said it was 'like a war'.

Radia, Lawrence, and father Paul, 45, were returning to their apartment nearby when one of the canisters landed at the child's feet

Radia says the tear gassing continued throughout the evening. Pictured is the protest

She said: 'We were walking, holding hands, behind a barrier on the touristy side where people were walking, not on the main road closed off for demonstrators.

'[When they threw the canisters] there were fumes and gas, it was like a scene of war, it was surreal.

'We couldn't reach the flat even though it was such a short distance - I didn't know how my son was, he was in tears and shouting in pain because his eyes were hurting.

'My son cried all night and the tear gas carried on, I said I was going downstairs but it was impossible to go outside to eat or drink because the tear gas just carried on.'

Radia says the tear gassing continued throughout the evening.

'When we came back home, he still has some problems with his eye - it could be hay fever but the medicine is not working so we've booked an appointment with a specialist.'

French police - la police nationale - did not respond to a request for comment.
They say each pint should contain 568ml of liquid excluding the head

Beer lovers are calling on the next Government to back calls to ensure that pub-goers are guaranteed a full pint of liquid by law - after a survey found that 86 per cent of drinkers are being short changed.

A study by the the Chartered Institute of Trading Standards found that with an average pint filled with 96 per cent liquid, consumers are losing out on 264million a year.

The Campaign for Real Ale, which represents landlords and pub-goers, said politicians seeking votes should back demands for full measures when buying a pint in the local.

The survey found that the average shortfall of beer during the survey was 4 per cent - leading to a weekly loss to the pubgoer of 1.70 per week or 88.40 a year.

At 5 a pint, the average drinker is losing on average 20p worth of beer in every round.

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The Campaign for Real Ale is urging General Election candidates to support their call for a change in the law to oblige pubs to serve a 568ml of liquid - excluding the head - when someone orders a pint

The CTSI carried out 137 test purchases across nine local authority areas

The Weights and Measures Act was passed in 1824 which determined for the first time the exact volume which should be served in pubs to provide extra protection for consumers.

While the 200-year-old act said a pint should have a volume of 568ml, it was never said in law that the glass should contain that volume of beer.

Some consumers enjoy having a head on the top of their pint, but CAMRA insist that this should not bring the amount of liquid below the level of a pint.

Under the current law, a publican is not obliged to top up a pint if the head is too big - although many bar staff will add more liquid when necessary. However, if staff refuse to top up the beer, the consumer has no other options apart from taking their custom elsewhere.

CAMRA national director Gillian Hough said: 'The pint of beer or cider is part of our culture and heritage across these islands and it is right that we mark the 200th anniversary of the pint being defined in law in Britain and Ireland for the first time by raising a glass to our great pubs, social clubs, breweries and cider producers.

'But with too many consumers receiving short measures at the bar, CAMRA wants the next UK government to introduce a legal right for pub-goers to receive a 100 per cent liquid pint each and every time they are served.

'This would give drinkers a guarantee of getting what they pay for when they are supporting local pubs and breweries and would be a fitting way to mark the 200th anniversary of the great British and Irish pint.'

The CTSI also polled 2,000 members of the public about whether they thought the head should be included in the measurement of a pint.

A survey found 86 per cent of pubs served pints with less than a full measure of 568ml of liquid

Some 35 per cent said the head should not be included in the measurement compared with 23 per cent who were satisfied with the current situation.

John Herriman, Chief Executive of the CTSI said short measures were costing the average pub goer around 115 every year.

He said: 'We are calling on the hospitality sector to ensure that consumers get value for money by making sure they are correctly measuring the drinks they are serving to customers in the nation's pubs and bars and for further research in this area.'

Jess Phillips, Labour's candidate for Birmingham Yardley said: 'The cost of living means people can hardly afford a drink. To discover you're being served short measures adds insult to injury. A short measure cheats us all, but affects those worst off, the hardest.

'Being able to afford to go out for a drink is not easy and you should get what you pay for. In this current climate, it is great to see this campaign from the Chartered Trading Standards Institute raising awareness of the important work of our Trading Standards profession.'
A people trafficker has been caught on camera boasting that he can smuggle migrants from Vietnam to Britain in as little as seven days.

The brazen criminal told an undercover reporter, who posed as a Brit looking to bring a nanny from Vietnam to the UK, that he charges desperate migrants at least 20,000 each for the journey.

He said the journey involved getting migrants into Europe by exploiting Hungarian work visas before sending them across the Channel on a 'canoe' because it is 'safer' than a container.

The human trafficker told the Sky News journalist that he got 53 people to the UK last year and bragged that on his last trip 'there were 15 people and no one died.'

The shameless claims come five years after 39 Vietnamese migrants were suffocated in the back of a lorry travelling from Belgium to Essex in a disaster which sent shockwaves around the world.

The human trafficker told the Sky News journalist that he got 53 people to the UK last year and bragged that on his last trip 'there were 15 people and no one died'

The people smuggler told the undercover reporter that the journey takes between seven and ten days

In 2019, 39 Vietnamese migrants were suffocated in the back of a lorry travelling from Belgium to Essex

The brazen criminal Sky News spoke to brazenly claimed: 'It used to be dangerous, but now it's safe... We use canoes to cross the Channel, which isn't far.'

He showed the reporter a picture of more than 20 Vietnamese men and women he claimed were camped out in a forest in the UK.

He told her that he had got them to the UK and explained the route they take, repeatedly dismissing concerns about safety.

The man explained how he exploits legal Hungarian work visas to get people to mainland Europe before getting them onto trains or into buses to cross the continent to France.

From there, he said, a 'canoe' gets them to the UK - pointing to what appeared to be a stock image of a speed boat rather than inflatable dinghies used by reckless smugglers.

Those looking to make the perilous trip are driven by hopes of a better life for themselves and their families back home, with whole villages relying on the income sent back by family members abroad.

The smuggler said a 'canoe' gets them to the UK - pointing to what appeared to be a stock image of a speed boat

Police officers drive away a lorry (C) in which 39 dead bodies were discovered in October, 2019

One village in north central Vietnam has become known as Billionaire Village due to the lavish Italianate homes built with the support of migrant workers.

But many families rack up huge debt trying to get their relatives to the UK due to the exorbitant rates agents often charge for travel and documents.

The family of one migrant who tragically perished in the Essex lorry disaster revealed that they are still paying off the debt they accrued trying to get him to Britain.

The cousin of father-of-two Le Van Ha said that it cost his relatives one billion Vietnamese Dong (around 31,000) to get the 32-year-old to the UK.

Father-of-two Le Van Ha died in the 2019 Essex Lorry tragedy

'My family still owes a lot of money,' he told Sky. 'When he passed away they had to start paying that back. They just wanted to help him to make his dream come true.'

Despite the Essex lorry tragedy shining a light on the horrific conditions and dangers faced by migrants, there has been a huge increase in Vietnamese people heading to Britain in the hope of a better life.

More than one thousand Vietnamese migrants crossed the Channel on boats in the first quarter of this year alone, government data shows.

The figure almost equals the number that made the crossing in 2023, and as a tenfold increase on the same period last year.

Migrants board a smuggler's boat in an attempt to cross the English Channel in April

It comes as it emerged today that 882 migrants - the highest number in a single day this year - crossed the Channel yesterday.

The Home Office said they made the journey in 15 boats, suggesting an average of 59 people per boat.

People smugglers took advantage of the sea's calm conditions on Tuesday on one of the busiest days of the year so far for crossings.

RNLI lifeboats and Border Force Vessels were sent out at 4am to round up men, women and children as they arrived into the Port of Dover.

The latest crossings take the provisional total for the number of arrivals so far this year to 12,313.
A record of around 882 migrants were detected crossing the English Channel yesterday, marking the highest number on a single day this year.

The Home Office said they made the journey in 15 boats, suggesting an average of 59 people per boat.

People smugglers took advantage of the sea's calm conditions on Tuesday on one of the busiest days of the year so far for crossings.

RNLI lifeboats and Border Force Vessels were sent out at 4am to round up men, women and children as they arrived into the Port of Dover.

The latest crossings take the provisional total for the number of arrivals so far this year to 12,313.

This is 18 per cent higher than this time last year when 10,472 crossings were recorded, and up 5 per cent on the total at this stage in 2022 (11,690).

Last year, 29,437 migrants arrived in the UK, down 36 per cent on a record 45,774 arrivals in 2022.

RNLI lifeboats and Border Force Vessels were seen rounding up men, women and children as they arrived into the Port of Dover yesterday

Dozens of migrants could be seen leaving a Border Force catamaran on Tuesday

Migrants board a smuggler's boat in an attempt to cross the English Channel in April

A group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, on May 24

Since the Government struck the deal to send migrants to Rwanda more than two years ago - which has since stalled amid legal challenges - more than 80,000 people have made the journey.

The tally of crossings since Rishi Sunak, who pledged to 'stop the boats', became Prime Minister is edging closer to 50,000.

Meanwhile, Mr Sunak told broadcasters this week that the fact young children were crossing the Channel was 'desperately sad' and demonstrated why his Rwanda policy needed to be implemented.

He said: 'It's desperately sad to see young children being put in these very dangerous situations, making these crossings, which illustrates why we have to stop the boats, something I'm determined to do and have a clear plan to do so.

'If re-elected as Prime Minister, the flights will go to Rwanda, we will build that deterrent, removing the incentive for people to come here in the first place.

'That's the only way to solve this problem and in contrast Keir Starmer would release everyone that we have detained, illegal migrants would be on our streets, they wouldn't be on the planes, which would be cancelled. There would be no deterrent.'

An overloaded dinghy of migrants crossing the Channel to the UK in April

Rishi Sunak (pictured riding on a boat in the harbour of Clovelly) told broadcasters this week that the fact young children were crossing the Channel was 'desperately sad'

In March, the Home Office confirmed the voluntary relocation plan to Rwanda was open to anyone caught in Britain with no right to be here.

A month later, the first failed asylum seeker was paid 3,000 to be relocated to Rwanda.

The 3,000 payment is part of a voluntary programme that saw the second person fly to Kigali on Tuesday, with another person set to follow next week.

The programme is separate from the Rwanda scheme to forcibly relocate small boat migrants, which remains mired in uncertainty given Labour's pledge to axe it if Sir Keir Starmer wins the general election.
Birmingham Airport has recruited dozens of staff in a bid to battle with growing travel chaos due to confusion over the 100ml liquid rules.

Airport bosses have hired 'liquid consultants' to help frustrated holidaymakers who have been waiting in hours-long queues to go through security in recent weeks. Some people have even missed flights.

The staff will help ensure passengers are only carrying 100ml containers of liquid after the Government temporarily reversed its plans to scrap the measure.

The government had originally given approval to some airports to allow passengers to carry up to two litres of liquids in their hand luggage after the installation of new CT scanners. But it has temporarily re-introduced the 100ml restriction until further notice.

Passenger anxiety remains high over what to do with liquids and how long to leave before a flight.

Furious passengers have often spent hours getting through security over the last few weeks (Pictured on June 6)

Airline passengers have complained about huge queues at the Airport over the last weeks (Pictured on June 14)

Passengers on long-haul flights were advised to arrive as much as four hours in advance of their departure time to check in (Pictured: Queues earlier this month)

Queues were shown winding around the terminal as staff attempted to control the flow of passengers

Posting on X/Twitter, Chris McBride said queues started at 2:30am in the morning.

Another, who raised a complaint, said: 'Due to security checkin delay, Me and my wife missed the flight despite arriving 2.5 hours before scheduled flight time.'

A third quipped: 'Birmingham Airport is crowed at 4:30 on a Wednesday morning. Note to self: dont go see your friends in the summer time anymore.'

But another traveller said he was through security in one hour and ten minutes from his car to departures.

John Wright said: 'Arrived at @bhx-official this morning at 5.00am using @airparksexpress car park.

'Baggage dropoff quite quick with @jet2tweets and was through security by 6.10. Earliest I've ever been given flight is 8.30.'

Over the last few weeks, passengers on long-haul flights were advised to arrive as much as four hours in advance of their departure time to check in.

The ongoing disruption has sparked fears that delays could continue for months.

The airport has said that despite investing millions in its new security hall, it cannot use it to its full capability because of a UK Government directive on liquids, and the fact it is yet to free up more space.

Currently, all UK airports are operating a 100ml liquids rule - meaning liquids can be placed in hand luggage but must be split into containers not exceeding 100ml

Birmingham Airport chief executive Nick Barton said the extra 'third-party customer service specialists' would explain current rules and help passengers 'prepare for security'.

Mr Barton also revealed that key features such as escalators had been removed for health and safety reasons and would be replaced by lifts.

He said: 'The escalators were really dangerous. We removed them because they were a health and safety issue.

'These lifts are huge, we only really need three of them to be working in the peak. When the ground space opens up people won't be queuing downstairs.'

He continued: 'These new measures are designed to give passengers a smoother and easier experience though security.'

He added that passengers were made to queue outside to reduce panic and crowding inside and explained: 'It is much nicer to queue outside as much as we regret the perception that this has on the passengers.'

Birmingham Airport also revealed that a fast track service allowing passengers to skip the queues will cost holidaymakers an extra 13.

The Premium Fast Track service is available to any passenger flying into the airport with any airline and allows them to jump the queues and gain faster access to passport control using a separate lane. The price is increasing from 7 to 20 as of July 1.

One passenger shared a photograph of the queue at around 6am on June 16, which led out the terminal in a straight line

Birmingham Airport said the extra 'third-party customer service specialists' would explain current rules which should help passenger queues (pictured on June 16)

The airport also offers an Express Lane service for departing travellers, which gives customers access to a faster lane through security. This costs 5 per person when booked online or 7.50 when purchased at the airport on the day.

Birmingham Airport announced the price hike on its website. The service is available to any passenger flying into BHX with any airline and allows them to jump the queues and gain faster access to passport control using a separate lane.

Airports have criticised the Government for the liquid rules U-turn after some airports - including Birmingham - had installed new 3D scanners.

It should have meant the rules were changed on June 1 so passengers could carry liquids up to two litres in their hand luggage.

But the likes of Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester were allowed to miss the latest deadline for installing them after various logistical challenges.

Some airports that had installed the new technology had already dropped the 100ml liquid rule.

But the Department for Transport (DfT) announced that six British airports will temporarily reintroduce the ban.

Passengers standing in huge queues in at Birmingham Airport

The change affects passengers travelling from London City, Aberdeen, Newcastle, Leeds/Bradford, Southend and Teesside airports.

All of the airports have Next Generation Security Checkpoints (NGSC) in operation, which had allowed them to scrap the 100ml rule.

The high-tech CT scanners create a 3D image of what is inside passengers' bags and are being introduced in a number of airports across the UK with the aim of speeding up security checks.

Birmingham Airport had already been told to keep the 100ml ban while it waited for regulatory approval after installing its new 60million security screening hall, which included the new high tech scanners.

It was previously claimed by insiders that the queues seen at the airport could last for months and the airport is 'understaffed', leaving employees 'overworked' and 'struggling'.

Birmingham Airport said in a statement that alongside the security delays with the new technology, 'on-going building works on-site' have added to the 'usual busy morning' as customers have waited in 'long and skinny queues'.

A later statement from a spokesperson said: 'There was no chaos at the airport. We used our temporary outdoor facility and saw a constantly moving queue. This new facility is as of a direct result of the Government restrictions on liquids.

'Our average queue time in the peak period between 0400-0600 hours is around 30-60 minutes with the majority of the day seeing no queues at all.

'As ever we remind all customers to arrive in line with their check in opening time and not before, details of this time can be found on booking documents, and to only bring liquids containers under 100ml in their hand baggage.'
A homeowner has won a 'David vs Goliath' battle with a broadband supplier which after it erected a 40ft-high pole next to his house without consultation.

Philip Waller, 65, went 'ballistic' when he returned home from a shopping trip to find that the local broadband provider Connexin had put up the pole just 5 metres from his living room bay windows.

The grandfather-of-ten, from Barnsley, then spent weeks gathering dozens of objection letters from neighbours and lodged complaints with councillors.

The company rebuffed his claims, saying the pole had been 'installed within the approved area' and it was 'unable to relocate' it.

But Philip later contacted his local Barnsley councillor who later uncovered that the pole had been put up without 'due process' and has now ordered it to be removed within two weeks.

Philip Waller, 65, returned from a shopping trip last week to find that a broadband firm had erected a pole (pictured) outside his house in Barnsley

Phillip is seen stood next to the 40ft-high pole which was erected next to his house without consultation

Local broadband provider Connexin put up the pole 5 metres from his living room windows

Relieved Philip, who had feared his 300,000 bungalow would be left 'worthless' if the pole stayed up, said: 'It is a bit of a 'David and Goliath' situation.

'We've only won because what they've done is illegal, but if I had not objected, it would be there forever.

'The big issue I have is these companies think they can steamroll over people.

'The next government needs to reveal their position on giving companies carte blanche to put the poles up wherever they want.'

Philip, a company director, said he had left his three-bedroom home to do some shopping on May 30.

And his wife then received a knock at the door from some workman, who said they had come to fit 'something to read water smart meters'.

But just ten minutes later, she found to her horror they were putting up a towering pole just six inches (2.5cm) from the driveway entrance.

Philip, who arrived home to see the pylon up, said: 'I sort of went ballistic, as one does.

'We had no prior warning, but apparently the company is not obliged to give 28 days' notice any more because the pole is covered by fibre optic roll-out regulations.

'It's roughly 12m high, it's literally about six inches from my driveway, and it's a car's width - about 5m max - from the window.'

Philip had feared his 300,000 bungalow would be left 'worthless' if the pole stayed up

Philip said he was particularly concerned about how the pole would affect the price of his property.

He added: 'I was mainly worried about the depreciation of the house.

'If the pole was left in front of the bungalow, it would be worthless. I definitely wouldn't buy it.

'I have got a house in Burgundy, France. In a similar situation, the pole would be burned down by now.'

Philip immediately started speaking to neighbours about the incident and wrote to Connexin to voice his anger at what they had done.

But in written correspondence, the firm claimed it had the right to put up the pylon as it had obtained the correct permission from the local council.

A representative had informed Philip: 'Unfortunately, it has been decided by the Planning Team that this pole will remain in it's [sic] current position.

'When sending a proposed pole location to the councils [sic] Highways and Planning Department, we do always have a few metres flexibility due to the chance that utilities may be discovered on the day of the install, which makes the planned location unsuitable.

'Due to this, the pole has been installed within the approved area for the pole. We would be unable to relocate the pole, we are very sorry for any inconvenience caused.'

But Philip kept fighting his corner and got in touch with Barnsley councillor James Higginbottom, the cabinet spokesperson for Environment and Highways.

And his inquiries revealed that Connexin did not have the right to erect the pole.

Mr Higginbottom said: 'I completely understand Mr Waller's frustration and I have been supporting him in this matter.

'I am pleased to confirm that due process was not followed when this pole was erected and notice has been served to order its removal.

'No-one objects to necessary infrastructure being built but this needs to be done properly and in a manner that doesn't cause unnecessary nuisance to local residents.'

Philip advised other homeowners who found broadband poles in front of their properties to raise objections and not to give up.

He said about dealing with the communications companies who are responsible for them: 'Don't believe the words that they tell you.

'Contact your local council and find out if they do have a license to put up the pole.'

Connexin has been contacted for comment.
An elderly Israeli peace activist who was taken from her home on the deadly October 7 incursion as a hostage has admitted she has given up on the idea of peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

Ada Sagi, 75, lived in the Nir Oz kibbutz near the Israel-Gaza border for decades, and spent much of her life trying to bridge the gap between Palestinians and Israelis.

But she today admitted that her life's work came into question after she was kidnapped from her home in the settlement on October 7.

'I don't believe in peace, I don't sorry,' the Arabic and Hebrew teacher told the BBC. 'I understand Hamas don't want it.'

Sagi, who turned 75 during her 53 days as a hostage after October 7, was one of the kidnapped civilians who was released on November 28 during a temporary ceasefire which saw Hamas let 105 hostages go in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinian prisoners.

The peace activist revealed the terrifying uncertainty she faced leading up to her release on the fifth day of the temporary ceasefire.

'Every knocking on the door you think there is somebody coming to take you,' she said.

Ada Sagi, 75, lived in the Nir Oz kibbutz near the Israel-Gaza border for decades, and spent much of her life trying to bridge the gap between Palestinians and Israelis

Sagi turned 75 during her 53 days as a Hamas hostage after October 7 (File image of Hamas fighter)

Smoke billows during Israeli bombardment on the village of Khiam in south Lebanon near the border with Israel on June 19, 2024

She said that upon learning that a deal had been brokered to allow the older women to be released, she had to comfort one woman who was 'terrified' she was too young to be included in the deal

'But our housekeeper said: 'No. You came together, you go together','she explained.

Four days before her release, Sagi and the others were told they were going home, which she did not believe.

'At lunchtime, they gave us food... they take us by car to Khan Younis and we go [un]til the border of Rafah [on the border with Egypt].'

But a problem forced them to return to Khan Younis.

'We are told they are releasing women with children, [and you feel] all the happiness that you are going to be released, and [then] something goes wrong,' she said.

Upon arrival at Gaza's centre-most city, Sagi claimed the group was taken to a hospital, believed to be Nasser, the city's main health facility.

Smoke billows during Israeli bombardment in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on June 19, 2024

A Palestinian woman inspects a shelter among burnt debris after an Israeli strike on an area designated for displaced people

Ms Sagi said: 'People say that they are not involved. They're involved... and getting money for each of us.'

Eventually she was released, and she was seen hugging her son Noam, a Londoner, when she was freed. He said following her release: 'For 53 days I was visualising that moment. Everything came into it. It was just squeezing and squeezing and squeezing and pinching myself.'

Despite her freedom, she said she was still keenly aware of the 116 hostages left somewhere in the Gaza Strip, 41 of whom are presumed dead by the IDF.

She called on Netanyahu, who this week disbanded his war cabinet in favour of a more autocratic style of government, to sign a ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas.

Sagi said: 'Israel have to do the deal... bring back home all these hostages who is alive and also dead.'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced mounting criticism at home over his handling of the Gaza war and hostage crisis, with regular mass demonstrations led by captives' relatives and anti-government activists.

Thousands gathered in front of parliament in Jerusalem on Tuesday night, calling for early elections and the resumption of truce talks.

A Palestinian flag flies among the rubble as Palestinians inspect the damage following an Israeli air strike at al-Bureij refugee camp, southern Gaza Strip

Protestors demonstrate against the Netanyahu government outside the Knesset on June 18, 2024 in Jerusalem

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced mounting criticism at home over his handling of the Gaza war and hostage crisis

In a video recording, Netanyahu criticised close ally Washington for 'withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel', in remarks rejected by the White House.

Except for 'one particular shipment of munitions' that US officials were looking at closely, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said 'there are no other pauses. None.'

Hochstein on Tuesday evening returned to Israel for more talks with Netanyahu after a series of meetings in Lebanon, according to an Israeli official.

Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders, have pending arrest warrants requested against them at the International Criminal Court for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

A UN report issued Wednesday detailed six 'indiscriminate and disproportionate' Israeli strikes that killed at least 218 people in the first two months of the war.

It said the strikes involved 'the suspected use' of heavy bombs - a shipment of which the United States had paused in May over concerns Israel might use them in its Rafah assault.

The strikes targeted 'densely populated' areas including refugee camps, a school and market, the UN rights office said, making the use of heavy bombs 'highly likely to amount to a prohibited indiscriminate attack'.

UN human rights chief Volker Turk said: 'The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid, or at the very least minimise to every extent, civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign.'

More than six months since the attacks featured in the report, 'there is no clarity as to what happened or steps toward accountability', Turk said.
Fireworks explosives, including scatter bombs and flaming balls, were found by South San Francisco police at the homes of teens who had been arrested in possession of firearms in June. South San Francisco Police Department Promethazine hydrochloride oral solution, a prescription medication used primarily for allergies, is identified as an item seized by South San Francisco police after arresting teenagers in possession of firearms in June. South San Francisco Police Department A gun seized by South San Francisco police on June 1. South San Francisco Police Department

South San Francisco police on Tuesday said they found a large amount of explosives, including scatter bombs and flaming ball fireworks, stemming from the arrest of two teenagers found armed with high-capacity gun magazines earlier this month.

The teenagers were stopped while walking with handguns at the 1300 block of Veterans Boulevard, which runs alongside Highway 101, near Brisbane, on June 1 just before 11 p.m. Police said they arrested an 18-year-old and a 17-year-old each in possession of narcotics and stolen Glock handguns with high-capacity magazines, one of which was modified to shoot fully automatic.

Several associates attempted to intervene as the suspects were taken into custody, according to police.

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Both were arrested on several felony firearm charges. Julian Pereda, 18, of San Francisco was booked into San Mateo County Jail and the 17-year-old was booked into a juvenile facility, police said.

The arrests led to search warrants executed on Tuesday morning on the 100 block of Brighton Avenue in San Franciscos Ingleside neighborhood and the 100 block of Toyon Avenue in South San Francisco. South San Francisco police detectives enlisted the North Central Regional SWAT team and San Francisco polices tactical team.

While collecting further evidence, law enforcement officials also seized what they described as a large amount of explosives. Photos of items obtained through the search warrant shared by police appeared to show products that shoot flaming balls with imagery from the Harry Potter franchise and 2007 film Bridge to Terabithia.

Police did not specify what narcotics were found at the time of the arrests. A bottle of promethazine hydrochloride oral solution, a prescription medication primarily used to treat allergies, was included in the items obtained through the search warrant on Tuesday.
Despots Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un have been spotted bickering over who would enter a car first during the Russian leader's first visit to North Korea in 24 years.

Vladimir Putin was met with a reception fit for a king upon his arrival in North Korea's capital city, after landing at Pyongyang Airport.

The Russian autocrat was greeted at the airport with a warm handshake and a hug by the pariah state's dynastic dictator Kim Jong Un.

But footage captured an awkward exchange between the two leaders, who each insisted the other get in the car first.

For what seemed like an eternity, both Putin and Un gestured to the other to get into the awaiting car.

Eventually, Putin relented first, and was seen taking his jacket before getting into the limousine.

Vladimir Putin was met with a reception fit for a king upon his arrival in North Korea's capital city, after landing at Pyongyang Airport

The Russian autocrat was greeted at the airport with a warm handshake and a hug by the pariah state's dynastic dictator Kim Jong Un

But footage captured an awkward exchange between the two leaders, who each insisted the other get in the car first

Un joins him in the car shortly afterwards, before the huge motorcade ferried the Russian President to Pyongyang's main square where thousands upon thousands of adoring citizens were eagerly awaiting his arrival.

The crowds erupted into cheers and let loose a torrent of bright coloured balloons at the sight of the Kremlin chief, who stood beside his host and took in the rapturous applause before they made their way through Kim Il Sung Square along a huge red carpet.

The pair were saluted by a string of military guards atop snow-white horses before making their way past a gaggle of children clutching balloons and waving frantically at the smirking autocrats.

Other revellers were seen touting huge portraits of the Russian President standing beside the Russian flag - the colours of which adorned the facades of buildings around the square.

The ceremony also gave Kim a chance to introduce Putin to a host of key figures in his Politburo, including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and his powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, who besides her role as chief propagandist has in recent months become a fiery-tongued mouthpiece of the regime.

After touring the square, Kim and Putin clambered into an open-top limousine, which whisked them away to Pyongyang's Kumsusan State Guest House, North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said, for their first talks together on North Korean soil.

The agency described their meeting as a historic event that demonstrates the 'invincibility and durability' of the two nations' friendship and unity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un (R) attend a welcoming ceremony on June 19, 2024 in Pyongyang, North Korea

North Korean people attend a welcoming ceremony for the Russian President Vladimir Putin during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, North Korea, 19 June 2024

Putin thanked Kim for the support and said the two countries would sign an agreement to boost their partnership as both 'fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation'.

The Russian President added that the 'new fundamental document will form the basis of our ties for a long perspective', according to Russian news agencies.

North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programmes, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Putin, making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, thanked North Korea for 'consistent and unchanging support of the Russian policies, including in the Ukrainian direction', hailing ties that date back to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of World War II, and Moscow's support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

'Our pilots flew tens of thousands of combat missions during the liberation war of 1950-53,' Putin said.

Kim responded that relations between Moscow and Pyongyang are at a new high, even compared to Soviet times, and voiced hope that 'the fiery friendship of the two countries will grow more monolithic,' according to Russian state news agencies.

The North Korean leader was quoted vowing his country's 'full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity'.

People wave to the motorcade carrying North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

Pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin walk past children during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

Kim has used similar language in the past, consistently saying that North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russia's interests and blaming the crisis on the US-led West's 'hegemonic policy.'

It wasn't immediately clear what that support from Pyongyang might look like.

He also hailed Russia's 'important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.'

Putin's visit to North Korea - his first since the early months of his initial presidential term - comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Russia's war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that would enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile programme.

Putin also said in his published remarks that Russia and North Korea will develop trade and payment systems 'that are not controlled by the West' and jointly oppose sanctions against the countries, which he described as 'illegal, unilateral restrictions'.

Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea's founding after World War II and have drawn even closer since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to the West isolating Putin internationally.

The United States and its allies have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with much-needed arms, including ballistic missiles to use in Ukraine, which mocked the growing relationship between the two nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, right, arrive to attend the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend an official welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024

The North has denied giving Russia military hardware but, ahead of his trip, Putin thanked Kim Jong Un's government for helping the war effort.

'We highly appreciate that the DPRK (North Korea) is firmly supporting the special military operations of Russia being conducted in Ukraine,' Putin wrote in an article published by Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday.

Russia and the North are 'now actively developing the many-sided partnership', Putin wrote.

Both countries are under rafts of UN sanctions - Pyongyang since 2006 over banned nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and Moscow over the invasion of Ukraine.

Putin praised North Korea for 'defending their interests very effectively despite the US economic pressure, provocation, blackmail and military threats that have lasted for decades'.

He also hailed Moscow and Pyongyang for 'maintaining the common line and stand at the UN'.

North Korea said the visit showed bilateral ties 'are getting stronger day by day', the official Korean Central News Agency reported, and would 'give fresh vitality to the development of the good-neighbourly cooperative relations between the two countries'.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba urged the international community to counter 'the lonely bromance' between Putin and Kim by increasing arms supplies to Kyiv.

Vladimir Putin beamed as he was greeted by Kim Jong-Un after touching town in North Korea

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) walking with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upon arrival at the airport of Pyongyang, North Korea, 18 June 2024

'The best way to respond to it is to continue strengthening the diplomatic coalition for just and lasting peace in Ukraine and delivering more Patriots and ammunition to Ukraine,' Kuleba told AFP.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Putin's trip showed how he was 'dependent' on authoritarian leaders.

'Their closest friends and the biggest supporters of the Russian war effort - war of aggression - (are) North Korea, Iran and China,' Stoltenberg said.

North Korea is eager for high-end military technology to advance its nuclear, missile, satellite and nuclear-powered submarine programmes, according to experts.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said the two leaders would possibly sign a 'comprehensive strategic partnership treaty' to outline cooperation on 'security issues', state-run Russian news agencies reported.

North Korea could promise 'to provide Russia with continuing supplies of artillery, guided rockets for multiple rocket launchers, and short-range missiles to support Russia's operations in Ukraine', Bruce Bennett, senior defence analyst at RAND Corporation, told Yonhap.

A convoy transports North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and and Russian President Vladimir Putin during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (center-R) listens to Russian President Vladimir Putin (center-L) during their meeting in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024.

In return, it will want 'Russia to provide a variety of advanced technologies', he said, plus 'a substantial flow of Russian oil and food products along with hard currency payments'.

Despite this, North Korea has described allegations of supplying weapons to Russia as 'absurd'.

However, it did thank Russia for using its UN veto in March to effectively end monitoring of sanctions violations just as UN experts were starting to probe alleged arms transfers.

The United States voiced 'concern' on Monday about the trip because of the security implications for South Korea as well as Ukraine.

The two Koreas have remained technically at war since their 1950-53 conflict and the border dividing them is one of the most heavily fortified in the world.

'We know North Korean ballistic missiles are still being used to hit Ukrainian targets (and) there could be some reciprocity here that could affect security on the Korean peninsula,' National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.
French police have shot dead a man who launched a frenzied attack on a pair of victims with a screwdriver.

The unnamed man, 46, was gunned down in Aubervilliers, an industrial region in Seine-Saint Denis district in the northeastern suburbs of Paris, which is notorious for high crime rates.

Police claimed the as yet unidentified attacker stabbed a cleaner with the tool, before turning the sharp implement on a policeman who tried to intervene after being called to the scene.

A fellow officer gunned down the attacker as he refused to respond to orders to surrender.

Mayor of Aubervilliers Karine Franclet said in the wake of the attack: 'We strongly condemn this unacceptable act of violence.

'Any attack against those who take care of our city is intolerable,' she said.

French police officers from 'Police Identite judiciaire' inspect a crime scene after a man was shot dead by the municipal police after the attack with a screwdriver on a cleaning agent

Police officers inspect a crime scene after a man was shot dead by the municipal police after the attack with a screwdriver on a cleaning agent, in Aubervilliers near Paris, on June 19, 2024. A man was shot dead on June 19, 2024

Forensic investigators study the scene of a stabbing and shooting in Aubervilliers

Police officers inspect a crime scene after a man was shot dead by the municipal police after the attack with a screwdriver on a cleaning agent, in Aubervilliers near Paris, on June 19, 2024

The scene was immediately cordoned off and a significant police presence was witnessed in Aubervilliers following this morning's attack.

Images published by Le Parisien showed several officers standing on the street close to the police cordon, while witnesses spoke of seeing a tarpaulin the body of the attacker.

Forensic investigators were also dispatched to the scene.

The Seine-Saint-Denis security department has opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack, while the officer who discharged his weapon and killed the attacker is also subject to a review, as per procedure.

Frence police sources told AFP the police officer fired twice and 'instantly killed' the attacker.
The father of murdered 17-year-old Charlie Cosser has revealed the depths of his despair as his son's teenage killer - named for the first time today - was sentenced to life behind bars.

Martin Cosser says he feels 'completely helpless' and contemplated taking his own life, adding: 'This world is worse off without my beautiful little boy and will never be the same again.'

Yura Varybrus, the son of Ukrainian parents, stabbed Charlie on a crowded dance floor after being asked to leave an end-of-term party in the grounds of a 1.5million country farmhouse last summer.

He was publicly identified for the first time today after applications from reporters were allowed by Judge Christine Henson, while a picture of him aged 14 emerged.

Varybrus, who will be 18 in November, had never met Charlie before the party at Balmohano Farmhouse near Warnham, West Sussex.

Sussex Police have today released a mugshot picture of convicted killer Yura Varybus, 17

Martin Cosser (right) has described how he feels 'completely helpless' and contemplated taking his own life, adding: 'This world is worse off without my beautiful little boy'

The attacker had been drinking heavily throughout the night and claimed he could not remember anything about the killing.

Charlie's father Mr Cosser today said in an emotional statement: 'I had to write a eulogy for my teenage son and read it to 700 people at his funeral.

'How he was killed haunts me and will haunt us forever.

'Ive had to watch my lovely family fall apart in front of me and Im completely helpless.'

He told of last speaking to his son - nicknamed 'Cheeks' - on July 22 last year, adding: 'Ive been trying hard not to think of his last moments.

'I have nightmares where it is me getting stabbed.

'I cant stop visualising him lying in the long grass where he was found.'

Mr Cosser described how he wears a lock of Charlies hair in a locket round his neck, cut for him by a nurse at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton - and said his family had been put through the hell of a three-week trial by the killer.

Charlie Cosser, pictured centre with his family around him, was stabbed to death by Yura Varybrus in Warnham, West Sussex in July last year

Yura Varybus, pictured here at the age of 14, has been named today as Charlie Cosser's killer

He added: 'I walk past Charlies bedroom every day and still open his door, praying that he might be there.

'I havent spent more than a couple of hours in my lounge since last year because I keep visualising Charlie there and its just too painful.

'Charlie made me so happy, and I was so proud of the young man hed become and exceptionally proud to be his dad.

'This world is worse off without my beautiful little boy and will never be the same again.

'Ive forgotten what its like to be happy, if I smile its forced, when I talk, Im distant and I find it almost impossible to listen anymore.

'There is not a single breath I take that isnt Charlie but the loneliness I feel is indescribable because nobody understands.'

Mr Cosser said he contemplated taking his own life following the death of his son.

He also told how his two other children were keeping him going, saying if it were not for them 'I would end my life, which should tell you how badly I am affected by this'.

He added: 'Relationships with family and friends have been damaged forever by this evil act and we still dont know what to do with our little boys ashes and they sit on a shelf because he hadnt been alive long enough to have a very special place, we could lay him to rest.

Charlie Cosser (pictured), 17, was stabbed three times in the chest at an end-of-term summer party at a 1.5 million farmhouse estate in Warnham, West Sussex, after a fight broke out

Charlie's father Martin, pictured with mother Tara, has said: 'We haven't been able to even start grieving for Charlie'

Police pictured at the scene of Charlie's murder. The teenager was found around ten to 20 minutes later sitting on a pallet complaining his 'chest and back really hurts' and was rushed to hospital

'We have visited crematorium after crematorium and graveyard after graveyard but still havent found the place that feels right so hell probably stay with us.

'I carry a darkness with me everywhere I go, I used to love football but now get no pleasure from it.

'I cant be in a crowd of people after being the life and soul at any gathering and I often sleep in Charlies bed.

'I must force myself to carry on when all I want to do is die.

'Finally, I have a message for Charlie - my special, talented, charismatic, loyal, cheeky and adorable little boy.

'There will never be a moment for the rest of my life when Im not thinking about you and how incredible you were. Ill carry you in my heart forever and Im so proud to be your daddy.'

Mr Cosser also told how the family has already raised more than 130,000 for the charity they started in his name.

The killer's father Ihor Varybrus lives in West Sussex and mother Julia lives with her new partner in Surrey.

The trial jury were never told Varybrus had already pleaded guilty to murder days after Charlie died.

Then 16, he replied 'Guilty' in a clear voice when the charge of murder was put to him in July last year.

He exchanged a raised fist salute with his father as he was taken down from the dock at Lewes.

Speaking after the hearing, his father said: 'It's not just him, we are all guilty.

Charlie pictured with his older brother Adam who described his final moments with his sibling and said he broke the news to him that he and fiancee Jade Avery were expecting a child

Charlies' parents (pictured) turned up to each day of the three-week trial along with Adam and the teenager's sister Eloise, 16

'He is a child, we are all responsible and should have been making sure they were not drinking. I never saw him drinking before.

'I haven't been able to see him for five days and he is only 16 - he is a child.

'We need him to know we love him and we will stay with him all his life.'

Varybrus kept his head down in the dock at Brighton today as the Cosser family walked past him to read their statements from the witness box - and again when being told of his life sentence.

His father Ihor, sitting across the court, listened as the emotional statements were read.

Members of the jury who returned to court for the sentencing hearing wiped tears from their eyes as family and supporters of the Cossers sobbed uncontrollably in the public gallery.

Charlie's mother Tara spoke of her 'guilt' as still being alive when her 'beautiful, innocent son will never say I do to his wife or I love you to his own children'.

She said: 'Eleven months ago I was happy - we were genuinely happy. I thought I had all the time in the world.'

She told how her son fought for life in a Brighton hospital surrounded by love, adding: 'How can I possibly imagine a life without Charlie? He had so much to live for. Now, Im living a life without Charlie.

'But its not living, its just surviving. I feel like Im just going through the motions of life. I feel so weak, wishing so hard to be the mum I was.

'I know we are strong and we wont let this break us, but we are no longer the husband and wife, brother, uncle, family we once were.

'We have the life sentence. Charlie will be forever 17.'

She also said she felt 'scared, petrified for the future', asking the court: 'Why should he have been denied the chance to make more memories with his friends?

'We were so proud of the young man he was becoming.

'He was in my heart from the moment I knew I was pregnant and he will never, ever leave it.

Charlie Cosser's brother Adam (left) and father Martin (right) have been paying tribute to him

'I want him here with me. Holding my hand, making me happy, making me proud.'

Mrs Copper told how her son 'came across pure evil that night', before adding: 'He will never be forgotten - he was just too special.'

Christine Henson, the judge at Brighton Crown Court, earlier today said: 'This is a case that is a particularly grave crime and has attracted substantial national and local interest.

'The level of youth crime in this case is likely to be of significant public interest at a private party attended by many young people.

'Charlie Cosser's death has shocked a community and the family have set up a charity to fight against knife crime. Disclosure may aid the local community in coming to terms with this incident.'

She added that the potential deterrent nature for others in identifying Varybrus in this case is crucial for the public interest and public protection in homicide cases.

Delivering a life sentence with a minimum of 16 years behind bars, the judge told the killer this afternoon that his victim was 'still a child' and 'had everything to look forward to in his life'.

She said: 'He went to the party expecting to have fun before his holiday with friends on Monday - instead, his life support machine was turned off.

'As set out so eloquently in the Victim Impact Statements, the loss of Charlie Cosser to his family and friends is immeasurable.

'Yura Varybrus, I sentence you on what you did and the choices you made.

'Im satisfied you did not stab Charlie Cosser in self defence and that you did not draw the knife in a purely defensive way.

'I dont think you went to the party expecting a fight but I am satisfied you knew there was a knife available and you had access to it if violence took place.

'It was a spontaneous incident following allegations about inappropriate sexual behaviour and you being asked to leave.

'The violence may have erupted suddenly and unexpectedly, but you had armed yourself with a knife on the dance floor.

'I am sure you knew the knife had been taken to the party and had access to it. You had contemplated using it.

'The number and location of stab wounds make it clear it was your intention to cause really serious injury at the very least.'

The court heard how the murderer struggled with attachment issues following his parents' break-up, moving around between family members in the UK and Ukraine as a child.

He had been spending time between his parents in Surrey and Sussex.

Sarah Jones, for the defence said attachment issues had affected Varybrus mental health, adding: 'This was a split second decision he will regret for the rest of his life.'

A report by the headteacher at his school described Varybrus as impulsive, Ms Jones said.

She told the court: 'The report said he was good student who could show care for others, but very impulsive and could get into trouble for silly incidents.

'He was always accepting of punishment for incidents and never trying to sway the outcome.'

Charlie's brother revealed earlier this month how he told the victim he was going to be an uncle just moments before life support was turned off.

Older sibling Adam described his final moments with his brother and said he broke the news to him that he and fiancee Jade Avery were expecting a child.

Adam had hoped to tell Charlie at a family celebration, planned for a few weeks later, but instead had to make the revelation while his brother lay in a hospital bed.

He told The Times that he and Ms Avery had leant over the stabbing victim and whispered the news into his ear.

Adam, 28, said: 'We believe Charlie knew but, the fact we don't necessarily know, that hurts us a lot.'

The couple's son Albie Charlie Michael Cosser was born earlier this year and is now three and a half months old.

Charlie's father (pictured, centre, in black), quit his insurance broker job to set up knife awareness charity Charlie's Promise

Video footage played in court showed Charlie being stabbed after a fight erupted when a girl complained about the murderer's behaviour towards her

The heartbroken brother, who works as a football development manager, explained how he couldn't help but be reminded of another time he had visited his sibling in hospital - the day he had been born.

Charlie went on to become a talented footballer who made an appearance for Brentford's academy and, at the age of seven, once scored eight goals in a ten-minute match - much to his brother's delight.

The 17-year-old had been planning to head off on his first 'boys' holiday to Greek island Zante in the week he died and attended the party in a field in West Sussex on July 23 despite knowing just two people there.

Charlie had recently started work as an apprentice groundsman at Surrey private school Charterhouse and dreamt of being on the ground staff at Premier League football club Chelsea.

His father Martin quit his insurance broker job to set up knife awareness charity Charlie's Promise.

He previously said: 'I still open Charlie's bedroom door to see if he's there.

'I still have those moments where you're driving along in a car and suddenly you just burst into tears - it just hits you, you have those flashback moments.'
A mother and son have been fatally shot dead by her long-term partner in a double-murder suicide in Massachusetts, police have revealed.

The three victims were found in a home in Main Street, Wilbraham, a suburb of Springfield, which has a population of just under 15,000 people.

Wilbraham Police Chief Edward Lennon told MassLive officers were called at around 9.30am on Tuesday, after a 'person' with access to the house made the grim discovery of three bodies inside.

Police confirmed all three had suffered fatal gunshot wounds, while the woman's partner's wounds were self-inflicted.

A dozen police cars were seen outside the light-grey home as detectives begin their investigation.

Sima Setian Pariseau, 56, (right) and her son, Dylan Pariseau, 27, were found fatally shot dead by her partner in a double-murder suicide in Wilbraham, Massachusetts

Sima Setian Pariseau, pictured with her long-term partner Peter Donaldson, 56, who is believed to have shot her and her son, Dylan, before turning the gun on himself

Wilbraham Police Chief Edward Lennon told MassLive officers were called at around 9.30am on Tuesday, after a 'person' with access to the house made the discovery

The discovery was made at this home in Main Street, Wilbraham, a suburb of Springfield, which has a population of just under 15,000 people

Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni has not identified the victims, but they have been named locally as Sima Setian Pariseau, 56; her son, Dylan Pariseau, 27; and Pariseau's longtime partner, Peter Donaldson, 56, a senior sales account executive.

Information on when the shootings occurred has not been revealed.

In a statement, Gulluni said: 'We're going to let the medical examiner determine that.'

While there is no threat to the general public, residents are being asked to avoid the area of Main Street between Highmoor Drive and Burleigh Road, NBC Boston reports.

Sima, who also has a daughter, worked as a medical coder for Baystate Medical Centre for more than 20 years and only recently started a new job at Mass General Brigham, specialising in neurology, according to her LinkedIn profile.

She graduated in 1988 from the now-closed Becker College, a private college in Worcester and Leicester, Massachusetts.

Last April she became a volunteer advocate for foster children, advising young people in care and was listed as a trustee on the board of St Gregory Armenian Church in Indian Orchard, located a short drive from her home.

Her son, Dylan, was a senior medical research assistant researching into cardiovascular disease at Verve Therapeutics, headquartered in Boston, according to a profile on recruitment platform SignalHire.

Dylan, was a senior medical research assistant researching into cardiovascular disease at Verve Therapeutics, headquartered in Boston, according to an online profile

Sima was a medical coder, who recently became a volunteer advocate for foster children and was a trustee on the board of her local church, St Gregory Armenian Church, in Indian Orchard

Dylan went to his local Minnechaug Regional High School, in Wilbraham, before going on to study biology and chemistry at Keene State College.

He was also formerly a research assistant at Harvard Medical School and Moderna Therapeutics.

Nearby residents described the town as 'relatively quiet' and expressed shock at the news.

One told local TV station WWLP: 'It is definitely something scary, being in this town. This stuff doesnt happen.'

Another said, 'Just because we do live in Wilbraham doesn't mean that something bad like this can't happen.'

A neighbor close to the murder scene told MassLive, 'Its a very sad day.'
A missing British teenager posted a Snapchat picture just one hour before phoning his friend to say he was lost in a national park in Tenerife, it has emerged.

Jay Slater an apprentice bricklayer, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, left his friends on a night out after attending the NRG music festival in the southern part of the island.

The 19-year-old - who was on his first holiday with friends - is believed to have got into a car with 'two English lads' he met in the early hours of Monday and ended up at their accommodation in a national park about 40 minutes drive away.

Panic erupted when, at around 8.50am, a disoriented Jay called his friend Lucy Mae as he tried to walk back to Playa de las Americas but was thirsty, lost and only had one per cent battery on his phone.

The call cut out and the teenager has not been seen or heard from since, but his last known location was in the remote Rural de Teno Park, a 10-hour walk from where he was staying.

Social media posts from the night before show Jay smiling in a grey t-shirt with green patches on the shoulders.

It has now emerged that Jay also posted an out of focus photo of a hand holding a cigarette at 7.30am at the property where he travelled to with the two men.

Jay (left) is pictured right alongside mother Debbie and brother Zak (right) who flew out to Tenerife amid rescue efforts

Missing Jay posted a final picture at 7.30am on Snapchat from the house of 'two English lads' an hour before phoning his friend Lucy

Jay's final Snapchat shows the teenager laughing and smiling around 8.35pm on the night before he went missing

A MailOnline graphic detailing the timeline of events from when Jay attended the three-day NRG festival to his location when his phone died at around 8.50am on Monday

Police are checking vans today to try and find the teenager

Jay is seen in this image shared to his friend Lucy's social media days before he disappeared

His mother, Debbie Duncan and father Warren have rushed out to Tenerife with other relatives and friends to join the search.

Ms Duncan told MailOnline: 'We haven't had any real update but I'm waiting for news from the British consulate.

'There was talk of a helicopter going over the area today but I can't face going up there I'm going to stay here in Los Cristianos and wait for news.

'His friends and Lucy are up there helping and I have more family coming out today. We all just want him found safe and sound as quickly as possible.'

There at now around 15 family and friends in Tenerife searching for Jay. Among them are his mother Ms Duncan, brother Zak and father Warren Slater, who lives in Blackburn.

Local hoteliers and car hire firms helping out free of charge. The family are also being assisted by the British embassy.

A screenshot of Jay's last known location where his phone battery died

Cops are showing photos of Jay's face and checking vans for him today

Pictured are drones in the sky searching for Jay today

Speaking from the south of the island where her son had been staying, Ms Duncan said: 'I'm obviously beside myself with worry which is why I've flown out here with my eldest son to do anything we can to help.

'We're just praying the police or someone finds Jay. I know there's a mountain rescue team out and a helicopter.

'Nothing's ever going to be enough when your youngest son's gone missing but it sounds as if the police here are taking this very seriously and doing the best job they can.'

She added: 'He'd been at a three-day festival so he would have consumed a fair bit of alcohol but Jay was snapchatting with friends before he went missing and seemed very compos mentis.

'I just think it was a question of him not knowing the island well enough because it was his first time here and being a bit disorientated when it came to distances and not realising it was a 10-hour walk from where he went missing to his holiday accommodation.

'I know the last place he spoke to his friend Lucy from was in the mountains and I think the police have got a more precise location now.'

She told the BBC her son is an 'all-round nice, bubbly guy with hundreds of friends'. He's gorgeous, he's beautiful. He's my baby,' she said.

Staying at home in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, to 'hold down the fort' is Ms Duncan's partner and Jay's stepfather Andy Watson.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Mr Watson said: 'Who lives in the mountains? It would be wrong to speculate, but everyone has their own impression in their head.

'I wouldn't have gone off with two people I didn't know. But he's 19, he's impressionable, isn't he? If someone said there's more drink at our house, he's going to go.'

Mr Watson added: 'He has me run him down to the hairdressers, 200 yards away - why would he walk eight hours?'

He added: 'It's just all like it's not really happening. When it's in front of you on the news and his picture's looking back, it's like this is not happening.

'It happens to other people, not us. But that's not right, is it? It's not a good time at all. Having said that, nothing definite's happened, has it?'

Jay's friend Lucy reported Jay missing to police and launched search efforts yesterday morning

Slater had attended the New Rave Generation music festival in Tenerife over the weekend

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, travelled to the Canary Islands for a musical festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Speaking to the M.E.N. about Jay's disappearance, scared Lucy Mae said: 'He's gone on a night out, he's gone to a friend's house, someone that he has met on holiday.

'One of the people he has met has hired a car out of here, so he's driven them back to his apartment and Jay has gone there not realising how far away it is.

'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there.

'But then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around.

'He rang me saying his phone was on 1 per cent, he said ''I don't know where I am, I need a drink and my phone is about to die''.'

Slater is seen with friends in pictures shared on social media

Jay was reported missing on Sunday morning by friend Lucy Mae

Ms Duncan previously revealed she had received prank calls from Brits with 'northern accounts' on hidden numbers claiming they had kidnapped her son and held him for ransom.

She said: 'Some of the phone calls I've been getting have been horrible. I just don't know why people would want to do things like this.

'I've been getting lots of prank calls. It's sickening. People ringing me and saying they've got Jay because he owes them money.

'But it's not putting me off and I want to keep this in the news because it's going to increase the chances of Jay being found safe and well which is obviously what we're praying for.'

My God Mothers Grandson has gone missing. His Mother has flown out 7pm. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please for him.  pic.twitter.com/L7gWxsew8O  Vicky Entwistle (@vicky_entwistle) June 18, 2024

Jay travelled to the Canary Islands for this past weekend's 'New Rave Generation' (NRG) music festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Former Coronation Street star Vicky Entwistle has shared a heart-wrenching post on social media, as she prays for Jay's safe return.

Ms Entwistle, who is a close friend of the family, used her social media platform to share the missing poster of Jay which has details of his last location.

The actress who played Janice Battersby in the ITV soap said: 'My God Mother's Grandson has gone missing. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please pray for him.'

A Civil Guard spokeswoman in Tenerife said that 'everything possible' was being done to find Jay.

'A specialist Mountain Rescue and Intervention Group called the Greim have been mobilised. A police helicopter is also out and focusing on the area around the village of Masca.

'Other emergency services including firefighters have also been mobilised,' they said.

'Everything possible is being done to try to find the missing man.'

A FCDO spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.'

Lucy Mae said of Jay: 'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there... then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around'

Revellers are seen partying at the New Rave Generation festival

'I've never been so worried in my life,' Lucy said

The New Rave Generation festival is seen in this screen grab of video footage from the event
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Vladimir Putin took host Kim Jong Un for a spin through the streets of Pyongyang in a luxury limousine - one of several gifts the Russian President bestowed upon the North Korean leader today after the pair signed a new comprehensive partnership deal that included a mutual defence clause.

The Kremlin chief presented Kim with the boxy vehicle, manufactured by Russia's Aurus automaker, along with a tea set and an admiral's sword in a symbolic gesture of thanks for North Korea's 'consistent and unwavering' support for his war in Ukraine.

Footage taken in the leafy grounds of the Kumsusan state residence in the North Korean capital showed the moment Putin clambered behind the wheel of the cumbersome vehicle to offer his services as a chauffeur to Kim, who eagerly hopped into the passenger seat.

But a photo snapped moments later saw Putin - who is rarely at the helm of his own vehicle - looking unsure behind the wheel as Kim looked on, sporting a nervous expression.

Putin lurched around corners and appeared to weave across the road during the short trip that saw the pair share a rare moment away from their hordes of close protection bodyguards and security teams before heading to attend a gala concert.

Kim in return offered Putin 'very nice' gifts, according to the Kremlin chief's aide Yuri Ushakov, including various artworks and 'busts' that were 'skillfully done', the aide told Russian media.

Sure you know how to drive this thing? Kim Jong-un casts a nervous eye at Putin as the Russian leader prepares to take him for a spin

Vladimir Putin takes the wheel as he drives fellow tyrant Kim Jong-un around Pyongyang in a Russian-made Aurus

Footage taken in the leafy grounds of the Kumsusan state residence in the North Korean capital showed the moment Putin clambered behind the wheel of the cumbersome vehicle to offer his services as a chauffeur to Kim

The short trip saw the pair share a rare moment away from their hordes of close protection bodyguards and security teams before returning inside to conclude talks

Putin lurched around corners and appeared to weave across the road during the short trip that saw the pair share a rare moment away from their hordes of close protection bodyguards

Putin - who is rarely at the helm of his own vehicle - looking unsure behind the wheel as Kim looked on, sporting a nervous expression

The Kremlin chief presented Kim with the boxy vehicle, manufactured by Russia's Aurus automaker, along with a tea set and an admiral's sword in a symbolic gesture of thanks

The granular details of their new partnership were not immediately clear, but both leaders described it as a major upgrade of their ties, including terms that spanned areas from security to medical education.

Kim declared it the 'strongest ever treaty' between the two nations, raising the 'fiery friendship' between them at the level of an alliance, and vowed full support for Russia's war in Ukraine.

Putin meanwhile said the deal 'really is a breakthrough document' that reflects a shared desire to move relations to a higher level, adding that it provided, 'among other things, for mutual assistance in case of aggression against one of the parties to this treaty'.

This scope of this mutual defence agreement was not specified, but Kim said it 'fully contributes to maintaining peace and stability in the region'.

The signing of the deal comes just hours after Putin was met with a reception fit for a king upon his arrival in Pyongyang this morning.

After being greeted at the airport with a warm handshake and a hug by the pariah state's dynastic dictator, a huge motorcade ferried the Russian President to Pyongyang's main square where thousands upon thousands of adoring citizens were eagerly awaiting his arrival, along with a full military band and dozens of dancers.

The crowds erupted into cheers and let loose a torrent of bright coloured balloons at the sight of the Kremlin chief, who stood beside his host and took in the rapturous applause before they made their way through Kim Il Sung Square along a huge red carpet.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) attend a Gala concert in Pyongyang, on June 19, 2024

The granular details of their new partnership were not immediately clear

Both leaders described it as a major upgrade of their ties, including terms that spanned areas from security to medical education

Kim declared the new treaty as the 'strongest ever treaty' between the two nations, raising the 'fiery friendship' between them at the level of an alliance, and vowed full support for Russia's war in Ukraine

Putin meanwhile said the deal 'really is a breakthrough document' that reflects a shared desire to move relations to a higher level

The new treaty will allow for mutual assistance in case of aggression against one of the parties to this treaty'

The agency described their meeting as a historic event that demonstrates the 'invincibility and durability' of the two nations' friendship and unity

Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea 's founding after World War II and have drawn even closer since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (R) shake hands during a signing ceremony following bilateral talks at Kumsusan state residence in Pyongyang, North Korea, 19 June 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un arrive to attend a gala concert in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un walk during a meeting in Pyongyang

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend an official welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024

The pair were saluted by a string of military guards atop snow-white horses before making their way past a gaggle of children clutching balloons and waving frantically at the smirking autocrats.

Other revellers were seen touting huge portraits of the Russian President standing beside the Russian flag - the colours of which adorned the facades of buildings around the square.

The ceremony also gave Kim a chance to introduce Putin to a host of key figures in his Politburo, including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and his powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong, who besides her role as chief propagandist has in recent months become a fiery-tongued mouthpiece of the regime.

After touring the square, Kim and Putin clambered into an open-top limousine, which whisked them away to Pyongyang's Kumsusan State Guest House, North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said, for their first talks together on North Korean soil.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, right, arrive to attend the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

ool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin walk past children during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

People wave to the motorcade carrying North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

North Korean people attend a welcoming ceremony for the Russian President Vladimir Putin during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, North Korea, 19 June 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un (R) attend a welcoming ceremony on June 19, 2024 in Pyongyang, North Korea

A motorcade of Russian President Vladimir Putin moves along a road before a welcoming ceremony in Pyongyang, North Korea, 19 June 2024

Kim Jong Un (Center-R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) walk past children attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square

North Korean people attend a welcoming ceremony for Russian President Vladimir Putin during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, North Korea, 19 June 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

The agency described their meeting as a historic event that demonstrates the 'invincibility and durability' of the two nations' friendship and unity.

Putin thanked Kim for the support and said the two countries would sign an agreement to boost their partnership as both 'fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation'.

The Russian President added that the 'new fundamental document will form the basis of our ties for a long perspective', according to Russian news agencies.

North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programmes, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Putin, making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, thanked North Korea for 'consistent and unchanging support of the Russian policies, including in the Ukrainian direction', hailing ties that date back to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of World War II, and Moscow's support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

'Our pilots flew tens of thousands of combat missions during the liberation war of 1950-53,' Putin said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, second left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, second right, shake hands during the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un (R) attend a welcoming ceremony on June 19, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un

A sword-wielding military official stands to attention in front of Kim and Putin

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) and and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands after a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

The ceremony also gave Kim a chance to introduce Putin to a host of key figures in his Politburo

A convoy transports North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un and and Russian President Vladimir Putin during a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (center-R) listens to Russian President Vladimir Putin (center-L) during their meeting in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) walking with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upon arrival at the airport of Pyongyang, North Korea, 18 June 2024

Vladimir Putin beamed as he was greeted by Kim Jong-Un after touching town in North Korea

Kim responded that relations between Moscow and Pyongyang are at a new high, even compared to Soviet times, and voiced hope that 'the fiery friendship of the two countries will grow more monolithic,' according to Russian state news agencies.

The North Korean leader was quoted vowing his country's 'full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity'.

Kim has used similar language in the past, consistently saying that North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russia's interests and blaming the crisis on the US-led West's 'hegemonic policy.'

It wasn't immediately clear what that support from Pyongyang might look like.

He also hailed Russia's 'important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.'

Putin's visit to North Korea - his first since the early months of his initial presidential term - comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Russia's war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that would enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile programme.

Putin also said in his published remarks that Russia and North Korea will develop trade and payment systems 'that are not controlled by the West' and jointly oppose sanctions against the countries, which he described as 'illegal, unilateral restrictions'.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un pose for a photo

The two men were pictured shaking hands and hugging each other on the runway before leaving the airport in the same car

Kim Jong Un walks with Russian President Putin during a welcoming ceremony upon Putin's arrival

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un step into into a limousine, which is part of a massive motorcade, after walking down a red carpet

Putin is seen with Kim Jong-Un after arriving in North Korea

Putin and Kim Jong Un walk past honour guards during a welcoming ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea

Putin is welcomed upon his arrival to meet with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un

Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un

Putin smiled as he was greeted by Kim Jong-Un after arriving in North Korea after praising the dictator's support of his invasion of Ukraine

Russia's President Vladimir Putin is greeted by North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un during a welcoming ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024

Russia's President Vladimir Putin greets delegation members as North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un stands nearby during a welcoming ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024

Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies since North Korea's founding after World War II and have drawn even closer since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to the West isolating Putin internationally.

The United States and its allies have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with much-needed arms, including ballistic missiles to use in Ukraine, which mocked the growing relationship between the two nations.

The North has denied giving Russia military hardware but, ahead of his trip, Putin thanked Kim Jong Un's government for helping the war effort.

'We highly appreciate that the DPRK (North Korea) is firmly supporting the special military operations of Russia being conducted in Ukraine,' Putin wrote in an article published by Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday.

Russia and the North are 'now actively developing the many-sided partnership', Putin wrote.

Both countries are under rafts of UN sanctions - Pyongyang since 2006 over banned nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and Moscow over the invasion of Ukraine.

Putin praised North Korea for 'defending their interests very effectively despite the US economic pressure, provocation, blackmail and military threats that have lasted for decades'.

He also hailed Moscow and Pyongyang for 'maintaining the common line and stand at the UN'.

North Korea said the visit showed bilateral ties 'are getting stronger day by day', the official Korean Central News Agency reported, and would 'give fresh vitality to the development of the good-neighbourly cooperative relations between the two countries'.

Putin talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his visit to Pyongyang

In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) listens to Russian President Vladimir Putin (2nd-L) during their meeting in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024

Putin smiled brightly as he hugged Kim Jong-Un after arriving at the airport in Pyongyang

Putin prepares to sit into a limousine with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un

Putin and Kim Jong Un were all smiles as the Russian president arrived for a State visit

An airport during a ceremony welcoming Russia's President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba urged the international community to counter 'the lonely bromance' between Putin and Kim by increasing arms supplies to Kyiv.

'The best way to respond to it is to continue strengthening the diplomatic coalition for just and lasting peace in Ukraine and delivering more Patriots and ammunition to Ukraine,' Kuleba told AFP.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said Putin's trip showed how he was 'dependent' on authoritarian leaders.

'Their closest friends and the biggest supporters of the Russian war effort - war of aggression - (are) North Korea, Iran and China,' Stoltenberg said.

North Korea is eager for high-end military technology to advance its nuclear, missile, satellite and nuclear-powered submarine programmes, according to experts.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said the two leaders would possibly sign a 'comprehensive strategic partnership treaty' to outline cooperation on 'security issues', state-run Russian news agencies reported.

Huge banners with a smiling photograph of the Russian leader reading 'we ardently welcome President Putin!' were hung from lamp-posts across Pyongyang alongside Russian flags, images in Russian state media showed

Kim rolled out the red carpet for Putin with a welcome ceremony at an airport in Pyongyang

Newsreel footage showed Putin touching down in North Korea on Tuesday for his first trip to the isolated nation in 24 years

Russian despot Vladimir Putin (pictured, right) praised North Korea for 'firmly supporting' his brutal invasion of Ukraine

The North has denied giving Russia military hardware but, ahead of his trip, Putin thanked Kim Jong Un 's government for helping the war effort

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said the two leaders would possibly sign a 'comprehensive strategic partnership treaty' to outline cooperation on 'security issues' (File image)

An overnight drone attack set several oil storage tanks ablaze near the town of Azov in southern Russia on Tuesday

North Korea could promise 'to provide Russia with continuing supplies of artillery, guided rockets for multiple rocket launchers, and short-range missiles to support Russia's operations in Ukraine', Bruce Bennett, senior defence analyst at RAND Corporation, told Yonhap.

In return, it will want 'Russia to provide a variety of advanced technologies', he said, plus 'a substantial flow of Russian oil and food products along with hard currency payments'.

Despite this, North Korea has described allegations of supplying weapons to Russia as 'absurd'.

However, it did thank Russia for using its UN veto in March to effectively end monitoring of sanctions violations just as UN experts were starting to probe alleged arms transfers.

The United States voiced 'concern' on Monday about the trip because of the security implications for South Korea as well as Ukraine.

The two Koreas have remained technically at war since their 1950-53 conflict and the border dividing them is one of the most heavily fortified in the world.

'We know North Korean ballistic missiles are still being used to hit Ukrainian targets (and) there could be some reciprocity here that could affect security on the Korean peninsula,' National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

Ukraine did not immediately claim responsibility but it has carried out similar attacks on Russian energy facilities before

Officials did not say how many drones were involved in the attack

Video published by the emergencies ministry showed thick smoke and flames billowing out of what appeared to be multiple oil storage tanks in an undisclosed location

Highlighting those security concerns, South Korea said its troops fired at soldiers from the North who briefly crossed the border on Tuesday then retreated.

The South's military said it believed the North Korean soldiers accidentally crossed as they were fortifying the border, but said some of them were wounded after detonating landmines.

It comes as an overnight drone attack set several oil storage tanks ablaze near the town of Azov in southern Russia on Tuesday, sparking a large fire, local officials said.

Ukraine did not immediately claim responsibility but it has carried out similar attacks on Russian energy facilities before, arguing they are fair targets given that they fuel Moscow's military.

'Oil product tanks caught fire in Azov as a result of a drone attack. According to preliminary data, there were no casualties,' the governor of the local Rostov region, Vasily Golubev, said on Telegram.

Video published by the emergencies ministry showed thick smoke and flames billowing out of what appeared to be multiple oil storage tanks in an undisclosed location.

Officials did not say how many drones were involved in the attack.

Some 200 firefighters and emergency personnel were deployed to deal with the blaze, which spanned an area of at least 3,200 square metres (3,800 square yards), the emergencies ministry said.

The Rostov region sits directly across the border from Ukrainian and is home to the operational headquarters overseeing Russia's invasion.

On the battlefield, Ukraine said that Russian forces were fighting to enter the outskirts of Chasiv Yar, a flashpoint town of the war in the east whose capture could accelerate Russian advances.

Ukraine's eastern region of Donetsk, where war-scarred Chasiv Yar lies, has borne the brunt of fighting over more than two years and the Kremlin claims the region is part of Russia.

'The enemy keeps trying to advance to the microdistrict Novy in the town of Chasiv Yar,' Ukraine's military said in a briefing, adding that fighting was 'currently taking place'.

The South Korean military said it fired the shots to repel North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the rivals' land border

They said an estimated 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers, while engaging in unspecified construction work on the northern side of the border

Further south, it said Moscow's forces were also pushing towards Pokrovsk, where they were closing in on a key road that would complicate supplies between strategic hubs in the region.

Ukraine's air force meanwhile said it had downed 10 Iranian-designed attack drones launched by Russian forces overnight.

South Korea this morning revealed Multiple North Korean soldiers have been killed or injured in a landmine explosion inside the Demilitarized Zone as South Korea fired warning shots.

The South Korean military said it fired the shots to repel North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the rivals' land border for the second time this month.

They said an estimated 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers, while engaging in unspecified construction work on the northern side of the border, crossed the military demarcation line that bisects the countries at around 8.30am local time.

The North Korean soldiers then retreated after the South broadcasted warnings and fired shots, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said, adding that they did not see any suspicious activity after.

As they fled, an unspecified number of North Korean soldiers were injured in a landmine explosion, the Yonhap News Agency reports, according to the AFP.

'North Korean military suffers multiple casualties due to a mine explosion during work,' the report said, without giving further details.

The Joint Chiefs said they don't believe the North Korean soldiers intruded the border intentionally and that the North did not return fire.

They noted that the North has been increasing construction activity in frontline border areas, such as installing suspected anti-tank barriers, reinforcing roads and planting land mines.
Nancy Pelosi met the Dalai Lama at his residence in India on Wednesday morning in a move that infuriated China.

The former House Speaker, 84, greeted the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader by rubbing her head on his and took swipe at Chinese President Xi Jinping after a warning from the communist party not to attend.

The Democrat's greeting came just days after Joe Biden performed a similar gesture with Pope Francis, who looked very taken aback.

Beijing considers the 88-year-old Dalai Lama a separatist, severed all communications with his representatives in 2010 and doesn't recognize the Tibetan administration.

'His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the President of China, you'll be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything,' she said.

Pelosi admitted the Nobel Peace Prize laureate would not have approved of her comments criticizing China's communist leader.

'When I criticize the Chinese government, he says, let's pray for Nancy to rid her of her negative attitudes,' she added.

Nancy Pelosi met the Dalai Lama at his residence in India on Wednesday morning in a move that infuriated China

Pelosi was part of a bipartisan congressional delegation that visited the hillside town the Dalai Lama has made his headquarters since fleeing from Tibet after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959.

There, the group which included top Republican Rep. Michael McCaul met with officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile, which wants more autonomy for Tibet.

Beijing doesn't recognize the administration and hasnt held any dialogue with the representatives of the Dalai Lama since 2010.

After meeting the spiritual leader on Wednesday, the seven U.S. lawmakers addressed hundreds who had gathered at a monastery just outside the Dalai Lama's residence, waving American and Tibetan flags.

They told the crowd that a key focus of their visit was to underscore the Resolve Tibet Act, passed by the U.S. Congress last week, and aims to encourage dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials with the hopes of finding a peaceful resolution between Tibet and Beijing.

The bill should now be sent to the White House for President Joe Biden to sign into a law.

Pelosi said the bill is 'a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet,' eliciting applause.

'His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the President of China, you'll be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything,' she said

The Democrat former House Speaker, 84, held talks with the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader by and took swipe at Chinese President Xi Jinping

Pelosi was part of a bipartisan congressional delegation that visited the hillside town the Dalai Lama has made his headquarters since fleeing from Tibet after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959

Top Republican Rep. Michael McCaul also met the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and said the Chinese Communist Party had warned the lawmakers not to visit

McCaul, the Republican representative, said it reaffirmed American support for the Tibetan right to self-determination. 'Just this week our delegation received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning us not to come here... but we did not let the CCP intimidate us for we are here today,' he said as people cheered.

However, the visit and newly passed bill have triggered swift backlash from Beijing.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, urged Washington on Tuesday not to support Tibetan independence and said the White House 'must not sign the bill into law,' or China will take 'resolute measures,' without elaborating on what they may be.

'Its known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion,' Lin added, urging the U.S. side to 'have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world.'

Pelosi admitted the Nobel Peace Prize laureate would not have approved of her comments criticizing China's communist leader. 'When I criticize the Chinese government, he says, let's pray for Nancy to rid her of her negative attitudes,' she added

Tibetans gather outside the Dalai Lama's hillside home in Dharamshala, India, for the visit from U.S. lawmakers

The Dalai Lama denies being a separatist and says he only advocates substantial autonomy and protection of Tibets native Buddhist culture.

The Tibetan spiritual leader has a history of engaging with U.S. officials, including American presidents - from Jimmy Carter to Barack Obama - except for Donald Trump. He has yet to meet Biden since he took office in 2021.

The Dalai Lama is expected to travel to the U.S. on Thursday for medical treatment for his knees, but it is unclear if he will meet any officials while there.

Meanwhile, Beijing has repeatedly asked the U.S. not to interfere with Tibetan affairs and has argued that the people of Tibet have enjoyed social stability and economic growth under its rule.

While India considers Tibet to be part of China, it hosts Tibetan exiles.
London has lost a staggering 75 per cent of its police stations since 2008, shocking figures revealed today - as new research linked the closures to rises in serious crime.

The cuts have doubled the distance an average Londoner has to travel to their nearest manned police help desk to around two miles - with researchers warning criminals were specifically targeting areas the Met has abandoned.

New analysis by the Institute for Fiscal Studies found police station closures were linked to a 11 per cent increase in local assaults and murders, a doubling of response times and a reduction in the reporting of shoplifting and bike thefts.

Report author Dr Elisa Facchetti said cuts to local police services led to 'a significant rise in violent crimes and a deterioration of police effectiveness and citizens' welfare'.

She also warned a lack of local police stations would make it harder for police to curb future crime by leaving local people 'less likely to provide assistance or information'.

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A police car drives past a closed and boarded up police station in Hackney

London had 160 open police station counters today but now has just 36, the Standard reports. That is equivalent to around one per 250,000 people.

In a report published earlier this year, Dr Facchetti argued that every pound saved by closing a local police station led to 3 in costs on other services having to deal with an increase in crime, including the NHS and justice system.

The study comes against a concerning backdrop for violent crime in London, with knife and gun offences rising by 20 per cent last year.

Dr Facchetti said criminals were more likely to work in places where they can see police stations are abandoned.

'Potential offenders target those areas, especially for property crimes [such as burglary],' she said.

Growing public anger about the lack of local police stations has prompted a political row, with Tory mayoral candidates Shaun Bailey and Susan Hall blaming Sadiq Khan, who oversees policing in the capital.

But Mr Khan's allies point out that most of the stations were closed under his predecessor, Boris Johnson, with only 73 still open when he became Mayor.

The Coalition government's Comprehensive Spending Review of 2010 meant that London's police had to cut their budget by around a quarter by 2016 - with Mr Johnson and the Met choosing to cut police stations rather than frontline officers.

The issues faced by London have been replicated nationwide, with more than half of Britain's police stations closing between 2010 and 2020.

Cannabis factories have been found in two abandoned police stations, while anarchists occupied a former London station in 2020, with 60 officers needed to evict them.

Southwark Police Station is among many in London that no longer has a public facing counter

New analysis by the Institute for Fiscal Studies found police station closures were linked to a 11 per cent increase in local assaults and murders. Pictured: The former Holloway Police Station

Streatham Police Station in south London, which has been boarded up

A Met spokesman said: 'Every London borough has a police front counter which is open 24 hours a day to the public. In addition, the public are able to contact us via telephone, social media and online at www.met.police.uk'.

A Home Office spokesman said: 'While the decision to close stations is a matter for individual police forces and the Police and Crime Commissioners, we will always support our police and the Met will receive up to 3.5 billion in 2024-25, an increase of up to 125.8 million on last year.'

Mr Khan's spokesman said: 'The Government has chronically underfunded the Met since 2010, cutting police funding by more than 1 billion. Since 2016, the Mayor has repeatedly tried to plug this huge funding gap, but is doing so with one hand tied behind his back.

'Against this challenging backdrop, the Mayor has substantially reduced the rate of police station closures begun under the previous mayor Boris Johnson, who closed 70 between 2010-2016.

'He has also maintained his commitment to a 24/7 police front counter in every borough and boosted officer numbers through record investment in policing. With an increased number of police officers and PCSOs now serving in London, the Mayor believes there now is a strong case to retain more police buildings in the capital.'
A manhunt has been launched for a transgender woman who police say murdered a man and a woman in a Utah residence.

Washington City Police are looking for Collin Troy Bailey, 28, who also goes by the name Mia Bailey, who is currently transitioning.

Police said they were called after reports of shots fired at the home, and upon entry found the two deceased adults, confirming they died from gunshot wounds.

No identities for the victims have been released.

The home where the victims were found shot dead is listed as Bailey's home address, according to public records.

Also living there are Gail Bailey, 69, and her husband Joseph, 70, who appear to be Bailey's parents, though police are yet to confirm they were the victims.

Washington City Police are looking for Collin Troy Bailey, who also goes by the name Mia Bailey, who is currently transitioning

Police described Bailey as being 5' 10" tall, 130 pounds and has brown hair, but is known to wear wigs and change hairstyles frequently

Bailey is the single suspect wanted by officers and is considered to be armed and dangerous.

She was seen fleeing the scene in a yellow 2014 Kia Sol, with her current whereabouts unknown.

Police described Bailey as being 5' 10" tall, 130 pounds and has brown hair, but is known to wear wigs and change hairstyles frequently.

Gephardt Daily reported that in the early hours of Wednesday morning, police transmissions indicated that officers had located Bailey's general area.

The outlet said that they believed the suspect to be on foot and officers were trying to contain the area while awaiting for a SWAT team.

City Police Lt. Kory Klotz told St. George News: '[Officers] did find two deceased victims  both adults, one female, one male.

'As they cleared the rest of the residence, they found evidence of a homicide. Her whereabouts are unknown.

Police said they were called after reports of shots fired at the home, and upon entry found the two deceased adults, confirming they died from gunshot wounds

Klotz has asked that anybody who sees Bailey or her car, seen here, should not approach over fears she has a small-caliber handgun on her

'(Her) last known location was on Washington Dam Road and Washington Fields Road. She is considered armed and dangerous.'

Klotz has asked that anybody who sees Bailey or her car should not approach over fears she has a small-caliber handgun on her.

He added: 'We cant stress enough that we want to keep the public safe and make sure that they do not approach her and contact us at this point.'

In its initial news release, the Washington City Police department shared condolences and thanked other agencies that were assisting.
Oakland voters will decide in November whether or not to remove Mayor Sheng Thao from office less than two years into her tenure, barring any legal changes. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle

UPDATE: FBI raids home of Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao

The push to recall Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao took a major step forward on Tuesday after the city clerk notified leaders behind the effort that they had gathered enough verified signatures to qualify for the ballot in November.

The decision means that Oakland voters will in all likelihood be given the opportunity to weigh in on whether to remove Thao from office less than two years into her tenure, pending any legal twists. The effort joins a related campaign in the county to recall District Attorney Pamela Price, which has also qualified for the November ballot.

The two recalls represent a political shift in the East Bays post-pandemic political landscape, as increased crime and budgetary problems have challenged city leaders and fed discontent among residents.

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A progressive wave that surged during the pandemic amid protests over the death of George Floyd  and focused in part on reforming criminal justice systems  has been met by an increasingly bold opposition, particularly after Chesa Boudin, a reform-minded prosecutor in San Francisco, was successfully recalled in 2022.

Joshua Spivak, an elections expert who wrote a book about the history of recalls, said he believed it would be the first recall vote on a big city mayor in the United States since 2011.

The Thao recall group blames her for crime rates in the city and for the Oakland As leaving the city.

With businesses closing daily, Oakland is effectively under siege, the groups website says. A new mayor is crucial for our citys recovery.

Overall crime rose by 18% in Oakland in 2023, with violent crime increasing 21%, drawing a slew of negative attention to the city. However, those trends have been improving, with crime dropping significantly this year, according to the most recent statistics from May. Homicides are down 18%. The mayor named her first police chief, Floyd Mitchell, in March.

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In an email to recall organizers sent Tuesday, a representative from Oaklands clerks office said more than 40,000 signatures for the effort had been verified, well over the 25,000 threshold for the recall to be certified. The Alameda County registrar of voters signed off on the effort, it said.

We have to stop the wound and then by stopping it we can work on healing it, said Edward Escobar, an organizer who has worked with both recall efforts. The first step is to remove failed leaders.

The mayors office did not respond to a request for comment.
The SNP today pledged to begin 'immediate' negotiations with Westminster on independence if they win a majority of Scottish seats at the general election.

The separatists, as they had promised, put their long-running independence bid on the first page and first line of their manifesto ahead of polling day on 4 July.

Speaking at the launch of the document this morning, party leader John Swinney urged voters to back the SNP 'for a future made in Scotland - for Scotland'.

The newly-installed First Minister, who succeeded Humza Yousaf last month, insisted the SNP didn't want 'independence for its own sake'.

He said breaking up the UK would enable the SNP to 'protect our NHS', 'help people through tough times', and forge a 'stronger economy, and happier, healthier lives'.

The manifesto states, should the SNP win a majority of the 57 Scottish seats being contested, that Mr Swinney would be 'empowered' to begin independence talks.

'If the SNP wins a majority of Scottish seats, the Scottish Government will be empowered to begin immediate negotiations with the UK Government to give democratic effect to Scotland becoming an independent country,' it says.

But latest polls have shown the SNP - who have suffered a meltdown in support in recent months - could fall far short of that mark.

The SNP manifesto also included pledges to:

Push for an extra 1.6bn for NHS Scotland and protect it from privatisation;

Rejoin the EU, re-enter the bloc's single market and restore free movement;

Demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages and ending of arms sales to Israel;

Scrap the two-child benefit cap;

Support the abolition of the House of Lords;

Devolve powers to create a bespoke migration system for Scotland;

Decriminalise drugs for personal use and introduce supervised drug consumption facilities;

Scrap the Trident nuclear deterrent and invest the money into conventional defence and public services.

Speaking at the launch of the SNP manifesto this morning, party leader John Swinney urged voters to back the SNP 'for a future made in Scotland - for Scotland'

The separatists, as they had promised, put their long-running independence bid on the first page and first line of their manifesto ahead of polling day on 4 July

The manifesto states, should the SNP win a majority of the 57 Scottish seats being contested, that Mr Swinney would be 'empowered' to begin independence talks.

Mr Swinney dodged questions on whether, if the SNP fail to win a majority of Scottish seats this year, he would accept Scotland had voted to remain part of the UK

At the beginning of this month, a YouGov MRP model showed Labour were on course to be the largest party in Scotland by some margin

At the beginning of this month, a YouGov MRP model showed Labour were on course to be the largest party in Scotland by some margin.

Sir Keir Starmer's party were forecast to win 34 Scottish seats, compared to the SNP's 17 and the Tories' five.

This would be a loss of 31 seats for the SNP, who won 48 Scottish constituencies at the 2019 general election.

Mr Swinney today dodged questions on whether, if the SNP fail to win a majority of Scottish seats this year, he would accept Scotland had voted to remain part of the UK.

The First Minister said he would not be 'predicting the outcome of the election today'.

He told a press conference: 'The democratic wishes of the people of Scotland were expressed at the 2021 Scottish Parliament elections.

'Just a few miles from where we are today, there is a parliamentary majority in favour of independence and in favour of a referendum on the question of independence.

'I have long made clear my view, and it's my party's view, that the best way to secure independence is through a democratic referendum.

'The obstacle to that is the intrasigence of the UK Government.

'So what this election gives people the chance to do is to intensify the pressure to secure Scottish independence and to bring that about by voting SNP in order for us to achieve a majority of Westminster seats.

'So if anybody out there is keen for Scotland to become an independent country, the only vote they should cast is for the SNP because that's the only way it's going to happen.'

The SNP has spent the election campaign accusing a future Labour government of needing to cut public services, by sticking to strict fiscal rules.

Mr Swinney's party, however, proposed three new rules in its manifesto, including multi-year spending plans, a 'net worth rule' which sought to take stock of the value of infrastructure investments rather than just the cost, and an upper limit on debt servicing costs.

Anti-independence campaigners said the SNP's 'narrow-minded and divisive obsession' with breaking up the UK was 'more blatant than ever' at their manifesto launch.

Alastair Cameron, chair of Scotland in Union, said: 'As promised, independence was page one, line one of the SNP election manifesto.

'It may as well not have contained a single other sentence.

'The SNP has made its narrow-minded and divisive obsession more blatant than ever in this manifesto launch.

'The party simply doesn't care about anything else, to the severe and long-standing detriment of Scots.

'That's why it's so important that people across the country vote tactically to get rid of the SNP and elect candidates who care about Scotland's real priorities.'

Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy said: 'The SNP's entire manifesto can be summed up in one word  independence.

'The first page is dedicated solely to splitting up Scotland from the rest of the UK. None of Scotland's urgent priorities will get any focus from the SNP.

'For John Swinney, independence comes before the economy, the NHS and everything else.'
Harrowing before and after pictures show how Ukrainian prisoners of war have been reduced to skin and bone and left almost unrecognisable after months in Russian captivity.

The images give a chilling insight into the horrors faced by the soldiers and guards during their time in detention centres, with Kyiv saying they are a reminder of the 'darkest pages in human history'.

The emaciated state of the men suggests they have had limited nourishment - despite the Geneva Convention stating that POWs should be provided with sufficient rations and kept in 'good health'.

As well as enduring a lack of food, many show clear signs of physical abuse, including cigarette burns and bruises across their bodies.

The stark evidence of the mistreatment comes as Ukraine is investigating the summary executions of POWs - including the alleged beheading of a soldier by Vladimir Putin's forces in the Donetsk region this week.

One of the soldiers is barely recognisable in a side-by-side photo showing him before and after his captivity

The veins are visible in the arms of one man while his skin clings to his bones on his torso

Many of the former POWs have gone grey and look physically exhausted compared to before their captivity

Bruises are visible on the arm of one former captive as a medic assesses him

One of the released POWs smiles and raises his arms triumphantly - showing that he has lost almost all his body fat

Bones stick out on the shoulders of a Ukrainian soldier who has escaped from captivity

A Ukrainian soldier who was previously held captive by Russian forces shows a picture of his injuries - cigarette burns in his leg

Ukrainian soldiers who made it out of the detention centres with their lives have now posed with pictures of themselves before their horrific ordeal.

The striking images lay bare the stark physical changes the men have undergone as a result of their treatment at the hands of Putin's guards.

Their eyes have become sunken and hollow, cheek bones sharper and skin more wrinkled and pale.

All appear to have lost hair and greyed and look aged far beyond their years.

They are shadows of their former selves, with their physical states contrasting sharply with the smiling images from before they were taken to Putin's detention centres.

Other images show doctors assessing the released prisoners at rehabilitation centres as they embark on their long and difficult road to recovery.

As well as soldiers, the impact on Chernobyl guard Roman Vasiliovich Gorilyk has also been documented in shocking pictures.

Vasiliovich was one of 74 prisoners exchanged in a prisoner swap on May 31.

He has since been pictured, frail, with bones protruding after returning from dire conditions - which he endured since being kidnapped in March 2022.

The Ukrainian soldiers appear to be shadows of their former selves after time in Russian captivity

The emaciated body of one soldier who was taken captive by Putin's forces

A Ukrainian soldier who is now undergoing rehabilitation shows a picture of himself prior to his captivity

The former prisoner, a senior controller at Chernobyl power plant, was not involved in any fighting before his detention - but was 'taken hostage' by the Russians and dragged back through Belarus, according to army hotline 'I Want to Live'.

Russia does not acknowledge holding civilians captive - but significant evidence provided to human rights investigators and activist groups undermines their position.

During their entire time in captivity, the project claimed, neither Roman nor the other 74 prisoners were visited by observers from the International Committee of the Red Cross in violation of international law.

'The condition of Roman and other Ukrainian prisoners of war evokes horror and associations with the darkest pages of human history  Nazi concentration death camps,' according to the government body which first shared the images.

Mykhailo Podolyak, the Ukrainian presidential adviser, said: 'The torture by starvation is monstrous, the beatings and violence are sophisticated.

Staff at the rehabilitation assess one soldier

Bruises on the arm of a Ukrainian soldier who was previously held captive

A former prisoner of war appears weathered after enduring time in Russian detention

Protruding bones and popping veins are visible on the body of an emaciated Ukrainian soldier

'There are no Geneva Conventions anymore Russia again thinks it can avoid being held accountable for massive war crimes.'

It comes after Ukraine made further war crimes accusations against Russia this week, sharing a picture purporting to show a soldier's severed head.

The Ukrainian military claimed that it received information that Russian soldiers in the frontline area had been ordered not to take prisoners and instead behead them.

General Prosecutor Andriy Kostin said it was 'new horrifying evidence' of Russian war crimes, labelling it 'dreadful barbarism that has no place in the 21st century.'
A nurse claimed she had served in the Army and faked her qualifications to get a senior job at an NHS hospital, a court heard.

Tanya Nasir, 45, allegedly fantasised numerous qualifications and experiences in order to get a job at the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend, South Wales.

Nasir was trusted to be put in charge of caring for sick and premature babies after saying she had the same role at Chelsea and Westminster hospital.

She also claimed she was a Major in the British Army who had been shot on active duty in Afghanistan, but this was found to be a lie after employers discovered failed a basic fitness test as a cadet.

Nasir was ward manager on the neonatal unit at the Princess of Wales Hospital for five months until she was eventually found out and suspended by health chiefs for putting the 'most vulnerable of patients at risk'.

Nurse Tanya Nasir (pictured), 45, claimed she had served in the Army and faked her qualifications to get a senior job at an NHS hospital, a court heard

Nasir (pictured arriving into court) allegedly fantasised numerous qualifications and experiences in order to get a job at the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend, South Wales.

A general view of the Princess of Wales hospital in Bridgend, South Wales where Nasir worked for five months after allegedly faking her qualifications

Cardiff Crown Court heard the fraud was discovered during a three-yearly validation of her nursing and midwifery council registration when her line manager noticed 'inconsistencies' in her CV.

Prosecutor Emma Harris said Nasir claimed to have worked with premature babies at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London between 2010 and 2015.

But there was no record of her ever being employed there.

She also claimed to have worked for the West Hertfordshire Hospitals Trust and in the adult intensive care unit at Watford General Hospital.

Ms Harris said there was no record of such employments and she provided further false information when she applied for the job in Wales with the Cwm Taf Morgannwg health board.

'They went further than exaggerating or embellishing her qualifications. They contained degrees which she simply did not hold, they contained experience which she did not and could not have obtained,' she said.

The court heard Nasir's fake qualifications included degrees in physics from Hatfield Polytechnic and a BSc in Operating Department Management from the University of West London.

Her registration document with the Health and Care Professions Council, which she needed to become a ward manager, was also false.

Nasir was trusted to be put in charge of caring for sick and premature babies after saying she had the same role at Chelsea and Westminster hospital

The jury was told that Ms Nasir had also falsely claimed to have served in a number of roles with the army, including as a Platoon Commander and Combat Medical Officer with the Royal Medical Corps, in the rank of Major.

But she had failed the basic fitness test for the army reserve in 2010.

She spent three years with the Cadet Force before being discharged and struck off in 2016 at the rank of Sergeant Instructor.

The court heard she had never seen active service or been deployed overseas.

A further claim that she had obtained a PGCE from the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst to become a Qualified Army Teaching Instructor with the army was also false.

The court was told an e-mail address for Matthew Nash-Yearwood - a major in the cadet force who was given as a referee on Ms Nasir's CV - was false and in reality an account operated by Nasir.

Ms Harris said Nasir was convicted of benefit fraud in 2010 and failed to tell university bosses when she was studying for a nursing diploma.

But Nasir allegedly 'fabricated' a letter from the probation service saying she was not under any obligation to disclose her convictions.

The jury was told education chiefs at Buckinghamshire New University believed the letter to be genuine so allowed her to continue the course.

She also allegedly provided false reference information on job applications and told bosses she had been shot at while serving in Afghanistan.

Nasir, of Rickmansworth, Herts, denies nine counts of fraud.

The trial, which is due to last for a month before Judge Richard Kember, continues.
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Welcome to DailyMail.com's U.S. politics blog, with the biggest stories from Washington and the corridors of power.

The White House is still fighting back against videos of President Joe Biden's awkward interactions they claim are 'cheap fakes.'

The Biden administration's relations with Israel has also reached a new tense juncture after Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the U.S. had blocked weapons shipments.

Both Democrats and Republicans are also waking up as primary results roll in from key states including Virginia and Georgia.

Follow all the updates from our reporters in Washington and around the country.
Just Stop Oil protesters have sprayed Stonehenge with orange paint as members of the public were seen trying to drag them away.

Video footage posted on social media showed two people, wearing white shirts with Just Stop Oil emblazoned on the front, running up to the ancient monoliths with canisters and spraying paint all over them.

In a heroic attempt to stop the group desecrating the stones, one woman was seen desperately trying to drag the protesters away before other members of the public piled in to help her.

The protesters, who were named as Niamh Lynch, 21, a student from Oxford, and Rajan Naidu, 73, from Birmingham, have now been arrested by police on suspicion of damaging the historical monument.

As police officers led the pair away, one man could be heard shouting: 'You dirty scum. This is a temple, not a publicity stunt!'

Several stones - dating back to the late Neolithic period - were covered during the incident, which happened at around 12pm today, the day before the summer solstice is celebrated at Stonehenge, which is the heart of a World Heritage site.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has condemned the attack as a 'disgraceful act of vandalism to one of the UK's and the world's oldest and most important monuments.'

Just Stop Oil protesters have sprayed Stonehenge with orange paint in their latest stunt

Video footage posted on social media showed two people wearing white shirts with Just Stop Oil on running up to the monoliths with canisters spraying paint

Members of the public were seen trying to prevent the protesters by dragging them away

Several stones were covered in the substance before the protesters stopped and sat cross legged on the grass

The Prime Minister continued: 'Just Stop Oil should be ashamed of their activists, and they and anyone associated with them, including a certain Labour Party donor, should issue a condemnation of this shameful act immediately.'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said 'Just Stop Oil are pathetic' after activists from the group targeted Stonehenge.

In a tweet, he wrote: 'The damage done to Stonehenge is outrageous. Just Stop oil are pathetic. Those responsible must face the full force of the law.'

Historian Tom Holland, who has previously hailed Stonehenge as one of Europe's most precious prehistoric sites, also criticised the attack.

He wrote on X: 'Parade your concern for the planet by destroying endangered lichens. Sympathy transmuted into utter loathing.'

Wiltshire Police said officers had attended the scene and arrested two people.

A spokesman added: 'At around noon, we responded to a report that orange paint had been sprayed on some of the stones by two suspects.

'Officers attended the scene and arrested two people on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument.

'Our inquiries are ongoing, and we are working closely with English Heritage.'

English Heritage said experts were assessing the 'extent of the damage' on the stones.

A spokeswoman said: 'Orange powdered paint has been thrown at a number of the stones at Stonehenge.

'Obviously, this is extremely upsetting and our curators are investigating the extent of the damage. Stonehenge remains open to the public.'

Just Stop Oil supporters desecrate Stonehenge in orange powder paint

Eyewitnesses at Stonehenge said their stunt 'beggars belief'.

Furious visitors told how they have been left 'devastated' after witnessing two Just Stop Oil protesting at Stonehenge by covering its sarsen stones in bright powder paint.

One couple travelled 5,000 miles from the west coast of the USA to see Stonehenge and said it has 'ruined' it for visitors.

Another couple from Newcastle, 325 miles away from Wiltshire, likened the incident to the Sycamore Gap tree felling.

Others said the heroic woman who can be seen wrestling with the Just Stop Oil protesters is a staff member who works at Stonehenge.

Tourists also said after the incident they were banned from walking around the stones and that staff 'hosed down' the powder paint but couldn't remove it all.

A druid was also seen 'cursing' the 'two idiots' who staged the protest.

Nestled in the Wiltshire countryside near Salisbury, Stonehenge is one of the top tourist attractions in the UK thanks to its mysterious beauty.

The historical landmark dates back 5,000 years, with the famous circle of sarsen stones being placed between 2600 BC and 2400 BC.

After Just Stop Oil's act today - which Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described as 'a disgraceful act of vandalism' - visitors were left seething.

In a video posted by the group, a woman - who is thought to work at the site - can be seen taking matters into her own hands and pulling the sprayers away from the stones.

Sean Moran, 64, has been a blue badge guide taking families around the site since 2012 and said he had never seen anything like it as the protesters used extinguisher-like canisters to spray the historic stones.

'It was devastating,' he said, 'I was very angry. We were having a great time and enjoying it when it happened.

'I quickly realised it was the Just Stop Oil people.

'A security guard couldn't handle it and tourists jumped in.'

Of the woman who jumped in, he said: 'She worked here. It was just crazy. In my mind there's a link to the solstice to maximise publicity.'

He pointed out the potential hypocrisy in the protesters' actions, adding: 'There's living lichen on those stones.

'Biologists from around the world to study it - did they think of that?'

Paul Anderson, 59 and his wife Elaine, 55, were down from Newcastle on holiday with their daughter.

Mr Anderson said: 'It was two idiots. We were around the other side, and we saw a lot of orange mist.

'I can't see how that's good publicity, doing something like that to an ancient monument.

'Coming from Newcastle, after the Sycamore Gap tree was felled - it beggars belief. It's a shame.'

Mrs Anderson said: 'It's ruined the day, but not the holiday. I'm not going to let them - how dare you.

'It's the last thing you'd expect. There was a lot of shouting from me. There was only one small woman who tried to stop them.'

Mike and Julie, who did not wish to give their surname, had travelled 5,000 miles from the west coast of the USA to see Stonehenge.

However, as a result of the protesters, the path to walk amongst the stones was shut down by security and police, as they could only be observed from afar.

'It's a shame, it really is,' Mike said. 'They are ruining it for people who have come from across the world to have their moment and see it.'

Julie added: 'They spray painted the stones. The police apprehended them and they said they now have to survey the structure.

'They don't know if they can get the paint off.'

Sheryl Hope, 59, who was visiting from Kent before picking up her son from university tomorrow, lamented Just Stop Oil's tactics.

'They're still looking quite orange,' she said, having visited after the protest. 'They hosed it down, but there was a lot of. It's upsetting, today of all days, which is why they did it.

'I don't agree with the methods at all. I understand the message, I just don't agree with the method.'

Robin Clark, 63, arrived at the scene to see a druid 'cursing' the protesters.

'There was a lot of orange paint,' he said. 'You weren't allowed to walk amongst the stones afterwards. That was very disappointing as I was expecting to do that.'

The engineer said of their methods: 'I don't really agree with it, I think they are going down the wrong route.'

One woman was seen desperately trying to drag the protesters away during the incident

Other members of the public later tried to help the women wrestle the canister off the protesters

The stones were supposedly sprayed with orange cornflour, which Just Stop Oil claimed would 'soon wash away with the rain'

One picture shows the two protesters before the paint attack, as they are seen blending in among the crowds on tourists

A Just Stop Oil spokesperson said: 'The UK's government in waiting has committed to enacting Just Stop Oil's original demand of 'no new oil and gas'. However, we all know this is not enough. Continuing to burn coal, oil and gas will result in the death of millions.

'We have to come together to defend humanity or we risk everything. That's why Just Stop Oil is demanding that our next government sign up to a legally-binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.

'Failure to commit to defending our communities will mean Just Stop Oil supporters, along with citizens from Austria, Canada, Norway, the Netherlands and Switzerland, will join in resistance this summer, if their own governments do not take meaningful action.

'Stone circles can be found in every part of Europe showing how we've always co-operated across vast distances - we're building on that legacy.'

The group said it used orange cornflour paint to spray onto the stones, which it claimed would 'soon wash away with the rain'.

Security measures around the monument are notoriously lax, with just a small cordone of rope in place around the perimeter of the stones to deter people getting too close as well as a few guards dotted around the site.

Tourists were previously able to get much closer to the monument, but tougher restrictions were put in place after some visitors attempted to carve their name into the rocks or take pieces of the monument home.

Niamh Lynch, 21, and Rajan Naidu, 73, sit in front of Stonehenge after spraying the ancient stones in orange paint

The pair (pictured) have now been arrested by police on suspicion of damaging the monument

Protesters Niamh Lynch, who is a student from Oxford, and Rajan Naidu, from Birmingham, are seen stood in front of the paint covered monoliths

Miss Lynch is a a student from Oxford with a keen interest in birds

In quotes provided by Just Stop Oil, Miss Lynch, said to be a student from Oxford, said the continued burning of oil, coal and gas was leading to 'death and suffering'.

'It's time for us to think about what our civilization will leave behind - what is our legacy?' she said. 'Standing inert for generations works well for stones - not climate policy.'

Miss Lynch's social media profiles reveal that she has a keen interest in birds as the current president of the Oxford Ornithological Student Society and a Youth Representative at the British Trust for Ornithology.

Rajan added: 'Either we end the fossil fuel era, or the fossil fuel era will end us.

'Just as fifty years ago, when the world used international treaties to defuse the threats posed by nuclear weapons, today the world needs a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty to phase out fossil fuels and to support dependent economies, workers and communities to move away from oil, gas and coal.'

Rajan, a civil rights advocate from Birmingham, was previously arrested during a JSO protest at the Kingsbury Oil Terminal. He was sentenced to 34 days in prison after he and more than 50 other activists blocked access to the site in September 2022.

English Heritage describes Stonehenge as perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument.

It was built in several stages, with the first an early henge monument erected about 5,000 years ago.

The stone circle was erected in the late Neolithic period, about 2,500 BC. Burial mounds were built nearby in the early Bronze Age.

Stonehenge, together with Avebury, forms the heart of a World Heritage Site.

English Heritage describes Stonehenge as perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument

The Just Stop Oil incident came just a day before the summer solstice is celebrated at Stonehenge. Revellers are pictured during last year's celebrations

Revelers perform yoga soon after sun rise at the ancient stone circle Stonehenge to celebrate the Summer Solstice in 2019

It is not the first time the eco-group has attempted to disrupt an event using canisters containing orange paint.

Earlier this month, two silver-haired protesters were led away by police after unleashing a cloud of orange paint at the Duke of Westminster's society wedding of the year to Olivia Hanson.

Two women, 73 and 69, let off a fire extinguisher containing orange powder paint in the direction of the wedding party, which included the Prince of Wales, as they left Chester Cathedral.

The protesters, who have since been arrested, were quickly removed from the crowd by police as onlookers booed. They were named by JSO as Polly, 73, a care worker from Norfolk, and Sheila, 69, a former NHS nurse from Bristol.

Hugh Grosvenor, 33, universally known as 'Hughie' to aristocratic friends, is estimated to be worth 10.42billion, making him the richest man under 40 in Britain.

The landowner, who married Olivia Henson, is the godfather to William's son Prince George and Prince Harry's son Archie. But while William played a major role at the service among 400 or so expected guests, Harry remained in California.

Olivia, 31, looked stunning in her wedding dress and blue shoes as she left the 11th Century Cathedral alongside her new husband as they made their way to a waiting Bentley.

But at around 12.30pm, two Just Stop Oil fanatics used fire extinguishers to spray powder paint in their direction.

Barbara Williams, 81, from Cheshire, who was standing next to the protesters in the crowd, said: 'I feel a bit shaken after it.

'We were standing next to them all day.'

A Just Stop Oil protester is led away by police after trying to disrupt the Duke of Westminster's Wedding on June 7

A second silver-haired protester was also arrested following the killjoy stunt

The moment clouds of powder paint were released from two fire extinguishers

Two women let off a fire extinguisher containing the orange powder paint in the direction of the wedding party, which included the Prince of Wales

Her friend Andrea Machin, 56, added: 'They were already here when we arrived at 7am, they had shopping trolleys with them.

'Everyone was watching the bride and groom and then we just saw orange and they had what looked like a fire extinguisher with them.

'The police realised quite quickly what was happening and pulled them out. One of them said it was for her grandchildren. It happened just as William was coming out of the door.'

Rhona Dalziel, 57, said: 'One of them had been reading a Richard Osman book. It's bizarre.'

A spokesman for Cheshire Police told MailOnline: 'Shortly after 1pm on Friday a coloured flare was released by two women, believed to be protesting on behalf of Just Stop Oil, on St Werburgh Street, Chester.

'Officers were immediately on the scene and two women were quickly arrested on suspicion of public order offences.

'The 69-year-old woman from Manchester and 73-year-old woman from Suffolk are both in police custody at this time.'
The superintendent of a Wisconsin high school who was shoved by an outraged father during his daughter's graduation has provided more detail on the incident, citing fears of potential gun violence.

Baraboo School District Superintendent Rainey Briggs was pushed by Matthew Eddy, 49, to stop him from shaking his graduating daughter's hand at the Baraboo High School commencement when she was receiving her diploma.

Briggs said while he initially thought Eddy was a staffer working the event, he realized the situation was much more serious when the fuming father stormed toward him.

He was also worried that Eddy had a weapon on him.

'This is somebody who is coming right to me and trying to put his hands on me,' Briggs said, describing the incident. 'At that point, I'm like, "Hold on, back up, give me some space."'

The superintendent of a Wisconsin high school who was shoved by an outraged father during his daughter's graduation has finally broke his silence

Baraboo School District Superintendent Rainey Briggs (pictured) was pushed by Matthew Eddy, 49, to stop him from shaking his graduating daughter's hand at the Baraboo High School commencement when she was receiving her diploma. Here he is pictured in a court hearing that took place Friday about the incident.

While Briggs said he didn't recognize Eddy when he came charging at him, Eddy has reportedly held a building resentment for the superintendent

He later explained he was furious over the district's treatment of his daughter, who had been expelled for disciplinary reasons that have not been publicly disclosed.

'You are not going to touch my f***ing daughter,' the father could be heard saying in video evidence presented by Briggs in a court hearing Friday.

The superintendent said what pains him the most about this incident, which has garnered national attention, is that the confrontation took precedence over the achievements of the class of 2024.

'My heart goes out to the students, (Eddy's) daughter, and to the 3,000 people who were in that space who really saw something that shouldn't have happened, but did,' Briggs said in a statement.

This incident has pushed district officials to hire increased security as well as a police presence during future school events involving the school community.

During the hearing, Briggs was granted a four-year restraining order against Eddy which carries a $10,000 fine and up to 90 days in jail if violated.

Briggs had made the case in Friday's hearing that he needed the order to ensure not just his safety but also family, colleagues, and students he encounters on a daily basis.

'The bottom line is I work with superintendents all across the country and there is not one superintendent in the country that can attest to this ever happening to them,' he said. 'And the break in safety, the break in civility is just unprecedented within the work we do every day as educators.

Eddy told the police that his daughter was expelled for an unspecified action. Her father claimed that same action was also done against her by another person.

What set Eddy over the edge is that when he allegedly brought this up to Briggs, the superintendent 'rolled his eyes' and dismissed his concerns.

Briggs, however, countered that Eddy had 'two to three years' to discuss the issue but never did, and said he was unaware Eddy had an issue with him to begin with.

In an exclusive interview on Tuesday, Briggs told DailyMail.com that Eddy's lawyer called him offering remorse a day earlier.

But during the interview at his home, Briggs said, 'An apology just doesn't make things go away.'

Matt Eddy, 49, rushed to the stage at his daughter's high school graduation to stop the superintendent from shaking her hand

While Briggs said he didn't recognize Eddy when he came charging at him, Eddy has reportedly held a building resentment for the superintendent of three years for the way his daughter was treated during her expulsion

Eddy was escorted out of the building following the confrontation and arrested for disorderly conduct.

'I don't think an apology, an "I'm sorry" makes this go away because there's a lot of harm that was caused,' Briggs told DailyMail.com.

While Briggs confirmed the daughter's expulsion, he denied any prior interactions with Eddy before the graduation ceremony.

During a court hearing on Friday, Eddy's lawyer, Karl Gebhard III, attempted to apologize to Briggs on his client's behalf. However, Briggs dismissed the apology, calling it insincere and insufficient.

Notably, Eddy himself wasn't even present at the hearing.

'If you felt like there was an issue with a decision I made or the board made, there were two years that you could have come and sat down and talked to me as opposed to waiting until graduation to come up on stage and ruin it for the kids,' Briggs said

Briggs told the court he needed the restraining order not just his safety but also family, colleagues, and students he encounters on a daily basis

Eddy's lawyer told the court his actions were 'immature, patronizing, incredibly embarrassing'

The incident went viral, igniting social media discussions about potential racial bias. Eddy is white and Briggs was the only black man among several administrators lined up on the stage to hand out diplomas and congratulate the grads.

'My client would have made that same decision at that time no matter who the superintendent was,' Eddy's lawyer said.

Briggs never directly accused Eddy of racism.

'What I did say is that the optics don't look good,' he said. 'And I want to be very clear that the optics don't look good given it wasn't specifically Dr. Briggs that did something, but Dr. Briggs was the one that was attacked.'

Judge Nia Trammel sided with the superintendent and said the evidence 'certainly suggests to the court that there was an attempt to intimidate'.

'Even as Dr. Briggs tried to create space between him and Mr. Eddy, Mr. Eddy continued to approach him, and he ultimately had to be escorted off the property in the process by off-duty police officers,' the judge said in granting the order.

Eddy's lawyer Gebhard explained away his actions as that of an immature dad.

'The truth here is we have a father who was upset with how his daughter was treated by the district, and particularly the superintendent,' he said. 'My client's actions are immature, patronizing, incredibly embarrassing.'

But Gebhard argued that his client didn't actually hurt, threaten or attempt to intimidate Briggs.

Briggs told DailyMail.com he isnt ready to forgive the actions and that an apology won't just make it go away

'My client made a mistake, and it was an embarrassing, immature act,' he said. 'But your honor, immature acts are not harassment.'

Video of Eddy's interview with police was obtained by DailyMail.com, and Briggs during the hearing clicked on the posted video, displaying it to the judge.

'I didn't want him to be able to shake her f*****g hand because he did not deserve it after all the s**t she went through in this district,' Eddy told investigators.

As his daughter moves through the procession, Eddy rushed in front of the stage, clapping for his daughter, then leapt over the steps to reach Briggs.

After pulling the superintended to the back, the two men exchange words then Briggs pushes Eddy away.

That is when Baraboo High School principal Steve Considine, seen wearing a tan jacket, inserts himself between the two men.

'When I hear Dr. Briggs say something to the effect of "get your hands off of me..." that's when I turned my head and see there was some sort of scuffle,' said Considine.

'That's when I went in front and inserted myself between Dr. Briggs and this guy, Mr. Eddy, I don't know his name, and then he was pushing back against me.'

In footage of a police interview obtained by DailyMail.com, Eddy tried to claim he did not initiate the physical contact between the two men

Several others join in on breaking up the confrontation and Eddy goes behind the stage curtain.

The confrontation occurred during a time of conflict in the district. The superintendent and the school board have been under fire by a group of outraged residents.

They are currently trying to recall school board president Kevin Vodak, who was at the graduation.

Vodak has been accused of favoritism and providing inadequate pay and support for teachers.

Briggs has been criticized for his salary and those of other administrators, while contracts awarded to his consulting firms have also come under scrutiny.

Critics also pointed to a high turnover of staff during his tenure and student behavior problems.

The school district said in a statement: 'Our primary focus remains on celebrating the achievements of our graduates.

However, surveillance footage shows that when Eddy jumped on stage, he grabbed Briggs arm and walked him towards the curtain

'We want to ensure that the significance of this milestone and the hard work of our students are not overshadowed by this unfortunate event.'

The district added that it is working with law enforcement.

'We would like to emphasize that the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and community members is a top priority... The School District of Baraboo is taking this incident very seriously.'
This is the moment Brits cheered as a tourist was tackled by Italian cops after he tried to scale the marble horse in Rome's historic Trevi fountain.

Located in the heart of Italy's capital, the fountain has been at the centre of several incidents in the past year, including one that saw eco-zealots dye the water of the 262-year old structure black to protest oil subsidies.

Footage taken by tourists on Tuesday showed a man, who has not yet been identified, climbing over the metal barriers surrounding the landmark before slinking over to the right side.

The 27-year-old Ukrainian man, who wore an all-brown tracksuit and green shoes, then climbed up the Travertine stone of the fountain and made his way across the intricate stonework.

Italian cops were seen whistling at him to get his attention, and calling him down from the 86-ft tall structure.

One policeman can be seen rolling up his trouser legs to prepare to get into the water, as the man climbed further and further up the stone.

After walking back and forth across the staggered waterfall built into the fountain, he can be seen dipping his hands and head into the flowing water

One policeman can be seen rolling up his trouser legs to prepare to get into the water, as the man climbed further and further up the stone

Footage taken by tourists on Tuesday showed a man, who has not yet been identified, climbing over the metal barriers surrounding the landmark

After walking back and forth across the staggered waterfall built into the fountain, he can be seen dipping his hands and head into the flowing water.

Police then managed to make their way up the statue, slowly backing him into a box and forcing him to attempt a swift getaway.

As he's forced towards the main basin of the fountain, tourists could be heard cheering as he nearly falls into the water, before he makes a break for freedom by running towards the gap between police officers.

Bystanders were then seen coming to the cops' aid and making sure he couldn't jump off and run free.

After arresting him, the Ukrainian man was found to be without identification papers, local media reported, and he was fined 1,000 euros. He was also banned from the city of Rome.

In May, Climate activists in Italy were dragged out of the famous fountain after a protest against the continued funding of fossil fuels, saying floods that have killed 14 people in the country's northeast this week were 'a warning'.

Seven activists from the anti-climate change organisation Last Generation climbed into the landmark fountain and poured a vegetable-based charcoal dye into it to turn the water black.

Seven activists entered the fountain at 11:30am local time on Sunday

Environmental activists are removed from the famous Trevi fountain by police officers

Hundreds of people who were visiting the fountain stopped to watch the protest before police arrived and began arresting and escorting away those involved.

Protesters at the fountain on Sunday held banners reading 'let's not pay for fossils' and shouted 'our country is dying'.

Police pulling protestors out of the water confiscated the banners as tourists either applauded or booed.

Activist Charlie, 18, said: 'I'm taking my first non-violent civil disobedience action to get institutions to stop investing in fossil fuels.

'Flood disasters and drought and extreme heat events have triggered fear, anxiety, and anger in me.'

They added they expect to be punished for their actions by the Italian government, but said: 'By now, however, it should be clear that we are not the real ecovandals, the real barbarians are those who continue to accelerate the environmental devastation underway for mere economic profit.'
Horrified witnesses have recalled the dramatic arrest of a man who allegedly gunned down a woman in a car with two teens before a Good Samaritan was also wounded.

Emergency services were called to the Robb Place home in South Mackay in central Queensland just after 4.30pm on Wednesday following reports a woman had been shot.

Police arrived to find a 34-year-old woman dead at the scene and a 66-year-old man seriously injured with an gunshot wound to the chest.

The alleged gunman, 31, was arrested three hours later at a fast food drive-through and service station in the neighbouring suburb of Paget.

He was taken into custody and is assisting police with their inquiries. No charges have yet been laid.

Harrowing new details have emerged that the woman had driven to the home when the man allegedly approached the car and allegedly discharged a firearm.

Police have arrested a 31-year-old man alleged to have gunned down a woman and seriously injured a Good Samaritan in South Mackay on Tuesday (pictured, police at the scene)

The incident forced police to plunge the surrounding area into a lockdown as they searched for the alleged gunman (pictured, exclusion zone)

District Officer Superintendent Graeme Paine said the two teens in the vehicle fled and sought refuge in a nearby home.

'It is an absolutely shocking thing to have experienced,' he told reporters on Wednesday night.

'They were obviously very fearful and have gone and sought help.'

He also revealed that the Good Samaritan, rushed to the aid of the woman when the alleged gunman opened fire on him and struck him in the 'upper sternum'.

He was rushed to hospital in a serious but stable condition.

It's unknown what type of firearm was involved.

Police issued issued a Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) about 5.20pm, locking down an area bound by Robb Place and Paradise, Archibald, Kindermar and Denton streets.

The PSPA was still in place late into Wednesday night as police launched forensic examination.

Superintendent Paine said investigators are yet to uncover details relating to a motive for the alleged shooting but are 'running out a number of different inquiries'.

'There is nothing in our investigations to indicate that the parties are known to each other at this stage, however we do believe they reside in fairly close proximity,' he said.

'We don't know exactly what's happened obviously from the time the incident's occurred to the time police arrived. There is a fairly short period.'

Police have established a number of crime scenes including on Robb Place and BP/KFC service station where the alleged gunman's car was located.

A 66-year-old Good Samaritan was also allegedly shot in the 'upper sternum' and was rushed to hospital in a serious but stable condition (pictured, police at the scene)

Police revealed two teens in the car fled into a nearby home on Robb Place (pictured) when a man allegedly opened fire

Mechanic Tyler Camilleri arrived at the service station just moments before police swarmed the store and arrested the alleged gunman.

'I heard the brakes of one of the cop cars go off and I thought that's a bit weird so I turned around and saw about four, five, six cop cars pull up at the same time,' he told the Courier Mail.

'They all get out and they are all screaming 'Put the gun down, you're under arrest, stop, you know all that kind of stuff.'

'He seemed to have put it down pretty quickly the moment he saw all the coppers.'

Mr Camilleri knew police were looking for someone after his mother called him to tell him to 'stay away from South Mackay.

'And then boom all this happened. Mums not going to like that,' he said.

Witnesses recalled six police cars pulling into the BP/KFC in neighbouring Paget (pictured) to arrest the alleged gunman after his car was identified in the drive-through

Joseph Romal who lives on one of the streets locked down returned home at 5pm but was turned away by police.

Members of the public have been urged to avoid the exclusion area while residents already at home have been told to stay indoors until further notice.

Images from the scene show police diverting traffic while officers scoured the area.

Queensland Police thanked residents affected by the emergency situation for their 'patience and understanding while this matter is ongoing'.

Anyone with information has been urged to contact police.
A Florida man has been arrested for hurling chairs and planks of wood off of a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper.

Jean Olivier, 33, of West Park, South Florida, was taken into custody this week after allegedly throwing a chair and other objects from the rooftop of 555 Fifth Ave., an office building near East 46th Street.

Olivier had reportedly entered the building to visit the Consulate General of Haiti to complain about housing before he allegedly went into a frenzy.

Police reported that just after 2:25 pm on Friday, Olivier had 'unlawfully' made his way to the outdoor terrace of the 20-story high-rise building, where he began tossing a chair off the roof.

Witnesses captured the man on camera as he threw a wooden chair over the edge, before it smashed into the scaffolding below as pedestrians scrambled to safety.

A Florida man has been arrested for hurling chairs and planks of wood off of a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper

Jean Olivier, 33, of West Park, South Florida, was taken into custody this week after allegedly throwing a chair and other objects from the rooftop of 555 Fifth Ave., an office building near East 46th Street

Olivier had reportedly entered the building to visit the Consulate General of Haiti to complain about housing before he went into a frenzy

Following the chair, Olivier continued to throw what looked like planks of wood and what appeared to be a chunk of concrete.

The objects were seen drifting through the sky, carried by the wind, in the video that has since gone viral.

The chair is seen on video smashing into on oncoming bus.

The heart-stopping incident occurred in broad daylight on East 46th Street and 5th Avenue in midtown Manhattan.

Another video captured by onlookers shows Olivier waving his arms at the public from the rooftop.

The viral video, posted by Conor Strong via Storyful, circulated on social media and left viewers in disbelief over the unhinged behavior they witnessed.

'Bring back mental institutions. It's everywhere. Every day,' one user commented on X.

'My ex would do stuff like this during a mood swing. Once because I bought new shoes for myself but didn't come home with anything for her. most of my stuff was quickly out the window,' another viewer wrote in an ambiguous comment.

Many viewers expressed concern for the New Yorkers below, with one writing: 'Was he arrested? That could kill somebody below.'

Following the chair, Olivier continued to throw what looked like planks of wood and what appeared to be a chunk of concrete

Witnesses captured the maniac on camera as he threw a wooden chair over the edge, before it smashed into the scaffolding below as pedestrians scrambled to safety

Another video captured by onlookers shows Olivier waving his arms at the public from the rooftop

Police reported that just after 2:25 pm. on Friday, Olivier had 'unlawfully' made his way to the outdoor terrace of the 20-story high-rise building, where he began tossing a chair off the roof

The objects were seen drifting through the sky, carried by the wind, in the video that has since gone viral

The heart-stopping incident occurred in broad daylight on East 46th Street and 5th Avenue in midtown Manhattan

The chair is seen on video smashing into on oncoming bus. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported

The New York Police Department (NYPD) is currently investigating the incident.

Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more than 50,000 people are hit by falling debris in New York City every year.

This includes not only construction site workers but also everyday individuals who are struck while standing or walking down the street.
The mother of a missing British teenager in Tenerife has revealed her fears her son was 'taken against his will' as the chaotic search for him continues.

Mountain rescue crews and sniffer dogs had been searching the mountainous area of north-west Tenerife for Jay Slater, 19, from Lancashire, up until this afternoon.

But suddenly police focus shifted to the tourist hotspots of Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas in south Tenerife, after a false sighting of him getting out of a taxi.

It later emerged the report was false and police, having wasted precious time in the blistering 27C heat, were forced to move attention back to their original site.

The search for the apprentice bricklayer from Oswaldtwistle enters its third day with Jay's last sighting on Sunday night at the NRG music festival in southern Tenerife.

Jay, who was on his first holiday with friends, is believed to have got into a car with two men in the early hours of Monday and ended up at their accommodation in a national park about 40 minutes drive away.

Panic erupted when, at around 8.50am, a disoriented Jay called his friend Lucy Mae as he tried to walk back to Playa de las Americas but was thirsty, lost and only had one per cent battery on his phone.

The call cut out and the teenager has not been seen or heard from since, but his last known location was in the remote Rural de Teno Park, a 10-hour walk from where he was staying.

Jay (left) is pictured right alongside mother Debbie and brother Zak (right) who flew out to Tenerife amid rescue efforts

Missing Jay posted a final picture at 7.30am on Snapchat from the house of 'two English lads' an hour before phoning his friend Lucy

Jay's final Snapchat shows the teenager laughing and smiling around 8.35pm on the night before he went missing

A MailOnline graphic detailing the timeline of events from when Jay attended the three-day NRG festival to his location when his phone died at around 8.50am on Monday

Police are checking vans today to try and find the teenager

Jay is seen in this image shared to his friend Lucy's social media days before he disappeared

His distraught mother Debbie Duncan said: 'It's just traumatic and it doesn't feel real. It's just awful, it's horrendous.

'I think he's been taken against his will with what's been said, but it's in the hands of the police.'

'He's just a great person who everyone wanted to be with. He's good looking, he's a popular boy.'

Valuable time in the hunt for the missing teenager have been wasted after Spanish police moved their search to the other side of the island after a false sighting.

Earlier, a spokesman for the Civil Guard confirmed 'the search operation has moved to the south of the island' in Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas.

While a spokesman did not offer any more detail, it was added: 'It's obviously down to information that's been received as the investigation has progressed.

'As things stand at the moment the search in the mountainous area near Masca in the north has been halted.'

But it was later ruled out as a false sighting by a well-meaning member of the public. Jay's mother Ms Duncan told MailOnline: 'It was a false alarm but with good intention.

'Someone thought they had seen him get into a car with two other guys but it was wrong.

'The search is still focusing on the north where he was last seen. We still don't have any updates and need people to keep looking.'

Social media posts from the night before show Jay smiling in a grey t-shirt with green patches on the shoulders.

A screenshot of Jay's last known location where his phone battery died

Cops are showing photos of Jay's face and checking vans for him today

It has now emerged that Jay also posted an out of focus photo of a hand holding a cigarette at 7.30am at the property where he travelled to with the two men.

His mother and father Warren have rushed out to Tenerife with other relatives and friends to join the search.

Ms Duncan told MailOnline earlier: 'We all just want him found safe and sound as quickly as possible.'

There at now around 15 family and friends in Tenerife searching for Jay. Among them are his mother Ms Duncan, brother Zak and father Warren Slater, who lives in Blackburn.

Local hoteliers and car hire firms helping out free of charge. The family are also being assisted by the British embassy.

Pictured are drones in the sky searching for Jay today

Speaking from the south of the island where her son had been staying, Ms Duncan said: 'I'm obviously beside myself with worry which is why I've flown out here with my eldest son to do anything we can to help.

'We're just praying the police or someone finds Jay. I know there's a mountain rescue team out and a helicopter.

'Nothing's ever going to be enough when your youngest son's gone missing but it sounds as if the police here are taking this very seriously and doing the best job they can.'

She added: 'He'd been at a three-day festival so he would have consumed a fair bit of alcohol but Jay was snapchatting with friends before he went missing and seemed very compos mentis.'

She told the BBC her son is an 'all-round nice, bubbly guy with hundreds of friends'. He's gorgeous, he's beautiful. He's my baby,' she said.

Staying at home in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, to 'hold down the fort' is Ms Duncan's partner and Jay's stepfather Andy Watson.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Mr Watson said: 'Who lives in the mountains? It would be wrong to speculate, but everyone has their own impression in their head.

'I wouldn't have gone off with two people I didn't know. But he's 19, he's impressionable, isn't he? If someone said there's more drink at our house, he's going to go.'

Mr Watson added: 'He has me run him down to the hairdressers, 200 yards away - why would he walk eight hours?'

He added: 'It's just all like it's not really happening. When it's in front of you on the news and his picture's looking back, it's like this is not happening.

'It happens to other people, not us. But that's not right, is it? It's not a good time at all. Having said that, nothing definite's happened, has it?'

Jay's friend Lucy reported Jay missing to police and launched search efforts yesterday morning

Slater had attended the New Rave Generation music festival in Tenerife over the weekend

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, travelled to the Canary Islands for a musical festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Slater is seen with friends in pictures shared on social media

Jay was reported missing on Sunday morning by friend Lucy Mae

Ms Duncan previously revealed she had received prank calls from Brits with 'northern accounts' on hidden numbers claiming they had kidnapped her son and held him for ransom.

She said: 'Some of the phone calls I've been getting have been horrible. I just don't know why people would want to do things like this.

'I've been getting lots of prank calls. It's sickening. People ringing me and saying they've got Jay because he owes them money.

'But it's not putting me off and I want to keep this in the news because it's going to increase the chances of Jay being found safe and well which is obviously what we're praying for.'

Former Coronation Street star Vicky Entwistle has shared a heart-wrenching post on social media, as she prays for Jay's safe return.

Ms Entwistle, who is a close friend of the family, used her social media platform to share the missing poster of Jay which has details of his last location.

The actress who played Janice Battersby in the ITV soap said: 'My God Mother's Grandson has gone missing. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please pray for him.'

A FCDO spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.'

My God Mothers Grandson has gone missing. His Mother has flown out 7pm. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please for him.  pic.twitter.com/L7gWxsew8O  Vicky Entwistle (@vicky_entwistle) June 18, 2024

Jay travelled to the Canary Islands for this past weekend's 'New Rave Generation' (NRG) music festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Lucy Mae said of Jay: 'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there... then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around'

Revellers are seen partying at the New Rave Generation festival

'I've never been so worried in my life,' Lucy said

The New Rave Generation festival is seen in this screen grab of video footage from the event

The 19-year-old travelled to the holiday island for a music festival and his last-known location was the Teno Rural Park

A Civil Guard spokeswoman in Tenerife said just before 11am local time today, before it emerged a search had begun in the south a 45-minute drive from the Masca area: 'We are still searching for the missing man.

'The search operation is being conducted by the Civil Guard and different units are participating.

'They include the helicopter unit, the cynological unit which uses dogs, the Greim mountain rescue and intervention unit and citizen security patrols.

'The helicopter unit has one helicopter which has been participating in the search since it began on Monday.

'We're not going to talk about the number of officers involved but it's a large operation.

'The focus area is the area where we were informed the missing man had disappeared which is the narrow valley within the Teno Massif called the Masca Gorge.'

She added: 'When there's a disappearance police always look at all options and investigate all the possibilities.

'In this case no hypothesis has been ruled out as you'd expect at the start of any investigation.'
Owner Dario Barbone holds two of his signature paninis at Aurora Centro. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

Dario Barbone knew he needed to expand.

He opened Alimentari Aurora, his Italian deli, as a pop-up in 2019 before moving into a cramped space in Potrero Hill. He loved the work  slicing salami felt like his lifes calling, he said  but a few years in, he wanted to grow to a larger location, and he wasnt sure where.

He considered the Richmond and Sunset districts, but he didnt know them very well. Meanwhile, real estate downtown, where he was interested in moving, was out of his budget. So Barbone was stuck  until he got an email this spring telling him hed been selected for the Vacant to Vibrant program.

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A partnership between the City of San Francisco and the nonprofit SF New Deal, the program gives grants, at least three months of free rent and assistance with permitting to small businesses opening pop-ups downtown. Its goal is to help revitalize downtown San Francisco, where activity remains at just two-thirds the level of pre-pandemic, according to data analyzed by the University of Toronto in October. The first round of Vacant to Vibrant businesses opened in nine storefronts last fall.

A window sign describing the Vacant to Vibrant program at Aurora Centro in San Francisco. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

This week, the second round of businesses is opening, bringing food and art from around the Bay Area to downtown. The 11 new pop-ups, which concentrate in the East Cut, Financial District and Yerba Buena, include a cafe, two creameries, a bakery, a florist and several art shops. For many of the owners  Barbone included  the program provided a major opportunity to move downtown that they wouldnt have been able to afford otherwise.

Its unclear whether the program will have future rounds: The citys Budget and Legislative Analyst released a report Tuesday that proposed cutting Vacant to Vibrant funding going forward. In the meantime, though, the businesses in the second round are just starting to take advantage of their new locations.

I am here now almost every day and I'm loving it, Barbone said of the East Cut, where his new Aurora Centro is based.

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Owner Dario Barbone poses for a portrait at Aurora Centro. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

Unlike at his original location, he wont be selling deli meats here. Instead, hes focusing on panini, with plans to grow from there.

After a hectic scramble to get the store set up, Barbone will start off small with two panini on the menu: a mortadella-pistachio-mint pesto offering called the Dirty Daddy Dave, named for David Murphy of Shuggies Trash Pie + Natural Wine, and a vegetarian sandwich featuring curried chickpeas.

Barbones hope, he said, is to bring all the eclectic flavors and the true Italian soul that made my spot very fantastic.

Hungry Crumbs will be cramming flavor into its offerings too  literally. At the Fremont Street location, the bakery will sell a line of stuffed cookies: pecan cookies filled with dulce de leche, banana cookies filled with Biscoff cream, chocolate chip cookies filled with ganache.

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Founder Mo Abdelmeguids goal? To provide a different perspective on how we can bring light and happiness, via sugary indulgence.

Employee John Vincent Fabreag holds milk teas offered at Steep Creamery, one of the new Vacant to Vibrant pop-ups. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

At the moment, Abdelmeguid intends to stay through the fall, but even pre-opening, he said hes hoping to stick around longer. The business free rent can be extended to six months, according to SF New Deal co-founder and chief impact officer Jenais Zarlin, after which the pop-ups negotiate a lease with the property owners.

Not all of the new businesses are expecting to stay: Marta Gorski of Public Glass Gallery said her pop-up will likely stay six months at most. After that, she thinks rent costs may be prohibitive.

But the city is hoping that many of the pop-ups will choose to extend. In the first round, businesses ended up signing longer-term leases in seven of the nine storefronts they occupied.

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Thats the ultimate goal, said Parisa Safarzadeh, a spokesperson for Mayor London Breed. We want to bring small businesses into empty spaces where they feel stable.

The C++ at Steep Creamery includes rolled chocolate ice cream, cheese cake bites and crisp pearls. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

Alexander Pong, the owner of Paper Son Coffee, is certainly hoping his new location on 2nd Street finds firm ground. Hes been operating his coffee shop as a pop-up inside Neighbor Bakehouse in Dogpatch, but he hasnt yet had a space to call his own.

With his shop name and Asian flavors  a matcha passionfruit soda, a coffee drink topped with guava puree foam  Pong pays tribute to his family. Several of his relatives came to the U.S. as paper sons, meaning they purchased documents saying they were the children of Chinese people already in the U.S. in order to immigrate here. Over time, he said, his paper family established real emotional connections.

From that history, he said he learned the importance of building relationships and constructing a community for oneself. Now, as he draws people to the East Cut, hes hoping to build a similar community there.

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I'm really, really stoked to be a part of pushing people downtown, Pong said.

Owner Alvin Yu poses for a portrait at Steep Creamery. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

Thats a sentiment Priti Narayanan shares. She makes ice cream with Indian flavors at KoolFi Creamery in San Leandro, but before becoming co-owner and chief ice cream engineer, she worked downtown as a traffic engineer. There, she fondly remembers making connections with people over food and drink.

You build relationships by breaking bread with people and having a drink, Narayanan said. I wanted to be part of the other side of the story, where I could provide a fun space for people to hang out.

Thanks to Vacant to Vibrant, Narayanan said, she finally has that opportunity to provide that space in San Francisco proper. At its new location, KoolFi will serve a rotating selection of 12 flavors  think salted caramel with Mysore pak crumble, strawberry tamarind balsamic and banana pudding ice cream with fried gulab jamuns.

KoolFi isnt the only new creamery coming downtown, either. With Vacant to Vibrants support, Alvin Yu is opening a location of Steep Creamery & Tea in the same building as Paper Son. Personal favorites of his: the coding-themed triple-chocolate C++ ice cream and the Mocha JavaScript, both plays on the Bay Areas reputation as a tech destination.

Chris Dotson, left, prepares an order as Thomas Baire chops chives for their cream cheese at Aurora Centro. Minh Connors/The Chronicle

It helped us create this really humorous and inviting and really just fun place for folks to be when they want to take a step out of the office, especially on a nice, sunny day, Yu said.

To Zarlin of SF New Deal, these new businesses bring the spirits of the neighborhoods and cities that they come from. Together, she said, shes hoping theyll help downtown feel more representative and reflective of the Bay Area as a whole.

Narayanan made a similar point. Having small businesses thrive downtown  especially women- and immigrant-owned businesses like hers  is key to making the city feel vibrant and exciting, she argued.
Rep. Jamaal Bowman is under fire for a new report claiming he asked a Jewish leader to send him photos of them together to prove he has Jewish friends.

A private text between Bowman and an unidentified Jewish leader from when Bowman first ran for re-election in 2022 was published by Jewish Insider on Tuesday.

'Do you have pics of us? So I can show the world I'm friends with Jewish People,' Bowman wrote, according to the report.

The leader did have a photo with Bowman, but did not share it with the congressman.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman is under fire for a new report claiming he asked a Jewish leader to send him photos of them together to prove he has Jewish friends

'I was uncomfortable,' the Jewish leader said of the awkward message. 'I kind of joked around with him about it. I said, 'Oh, I'm sure you guys have it. Don't worry about it.'

'I was like, 'I don't want to be his court Jew,' he said. 'That wasn't what I signed up for.'

Bowman is seeking a third term in a contentious primary against George Latimer and the full forces of AIPAC are coming out against him - their super PAC has invested $14 million in the race.

The two will face off in a primary on June 25.

'One hundred percent I believe that happened,' Rabbi Jonathan Morgenstern, head of Young Israel of Scarsdale, a modern orthodox synagogue, told the New York Post of the text.

Bowman is seeking a third term in a contentious primary against George Latimer and the full forces of AIPAC are coming out against him - their super PAC has invested $14 million in the race

'Bowman tokenizes the Jewish people. Bowman went from bad to worse,' he added.

Morgenstern said Bowman refuses meetings with Jewish leaders in the community.

'We tried to meet with him. We made the appointment  and then he cancelled,' Morgenstern said.

Rabbi Scott Weiner, leader of Tamid Westchester Synagogue in New Rochelle and a self-described 'progressive Jew' who used to support Bowman said the congressman lost his support since October 7.

In a comment he's since walked back, Bowman said at the time that it was a 'lie' to say Hamas militants raped Israeli women.

'He doesn't seem to care about Jews in the district  talking to them or working with them,' Weiner said.

Bowman, who is competing for his third term in Congress, is a progressive Democrat and member of the so-called 'Squad,' has long been critical of Israel - even moreso since the Hamas attack on October 7.

His district has a large Jewish constituency.

Bowman opposed funding for Israel and has deemed the nation's attacks in Gaza a 'genocide.'

In a final debate with Latimer on Tuesday, Bowman, 48, who is black, went after Latimer for his close ties to AIPAC and claimed he slow-walked desegregation as Westchester County executive.

'He claims to be a Democrat, but he is supported by racist MAGA Republicans who support taking your voting rights  gutting your abortion rights,' Bowman said.

'This is an example of using race as a weapon,' Latimer shot back. 'What we need to do is bring people together.'
The mother of a 12-year-old boy who died after a hit-and-run in Coventry has issued a tearful appeal for public help to track down a suspect wanted by police.

Keaton Slater's mother, Louise Slater, told a news conference on Wednesday that the death of her son, who was struck by a BMW car in Coventry last Friday, had left his family devastated.

She appealed for information about the whereabouts of 21-year-old Latvia-born Dolars Aleksanders, who is being sought on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Flanked by Keatons father, Clint, and brothers Kai, 13, and Keanu, 17, his 51-year-old mother wiped away tears as she said: 'We were a family of five but now we are four.

Keaton Slater's mother, Louise Slater, appealed for information about the whereabouts of 21-year-old Latvia-born Dolars Aleksanders, who is being sought on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving

The force has released an image of Dolars Aleksanders, 21, who is wanted on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving

Keaton Slater was hit by a black BMW on Radford Road in Coventry on June 14 at around 4.30pm - he tragically died shortly after from his injuries

'Our lives will never be the same again and Keaton's brothers, dad, nana and granddad and myself are devastated.

'The whole family, his school friends are all heartbroken.'

Although she said she had initially been reluctant to make a public appeal, the grieving mother added: 'Hearing that whoever did this will not hand themselves in has left us all feeling helpless and we need to get justice for our Keaton.

'We just want everyone to find who took our son - Keanu and Kai's little brother - away from us.

'Our little, fun-loving joker made everyone laugh all the time. Who did this to Keaton has taken everything away from us all.

'Please if anyone knows anything... please come forward so we can have justice for our family.'

In a separate statement also read to the media by Louise Slater, Keaton's brother, Keanu, said: 'I will never be able to see him joke around with us again, never be able to see him grow my age.

'There are not enough words to describe what he meant to us all. Our best friend, our little brother, a son and now an angel, all in one person.'

Radford Road where the incident happened. Keaton's family have paid tribute to a 'fun-loving little comedian' who was 'so beautiful inside and out'

He has been remembered for being an avid supporter of Coventry City FC and was described as being the 'light and soul' of life

Keaton was hit by a black BMW, which allegedly failed to stop, on Radford Road in Coventry on June 14 at around 4.30pm.

West Midlands police believe there were four people in the car, which was later found abandoned in New Arley, at the time of the incident.

Coventry City fan Keaton, whose family all wore the club's colours during the news conference, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sergeant Rich Evans, of the West Midlands' serious collision investigation unit, said: 'We have already made arrests and spoken to a number of people who were also in that car.

'We are working with all our partner agencies to try and establish the whereabouts of the suspect.

'We are also fully aware that the suspect was born in Latvia and we are doing further inquiries with our international counterparts.'

Floral tributes left for 12-year-old Keaton Slater on Radford Road, Coventry, where Keaton was killed in a hit-and-run incident

Funds are now being raised via a Just Giving campaign to support his loved ones as the community rallies together following the tragedy

Another 21-year-old man, arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving on Tuesday, has been released on bail.

Police are treating a third man as a witness and have interviewed a fourth male.

A fifth man has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and remains in custody.

Funds are being raised via a Just Giving campaign to support Keatons loved ones as the community rallies together following the tragedy.

Organiser John McDevitt said: 'No parent should ever have to deal with the trauma of losing a child so young.

'His family has been told about the JustGiving page and is very grateful that it is being done as they try and deal with what has happened.'

Mr McDevitt added: 'It will help the family with funeral expenses and any other living costs giving them time to begin to process and mourn the loss of their son and brother without having the extra burden of worrying about paying for a funeral and going to work.'

On Saturday, community members paid tribute to the youngster and said that many were in 'shock and disbelief' following the incident.

Nearby resident Tejinder K Kundi told Coventry Telegraph: 'It happened around the corner from where we live and the whole neighbourhood is in shock and disbelief.'

Coventry City Councillor Jayne Innes said: 'A child has lost his life, my love, thoughts and prayers with his family, friends and school.'
Do you know what happened? Email richard.percival@mailonline.co.uk

Four people have been rushed to hospital after a wall collapsed at a building site in Edinburgh.

Emergency services rushed to the scene shortly after 11am this morning with one passerby describing it as a 'major' incident.

It is understood a wall collapsed at the construction site, in the Marchmont area of the city, after being hit by a crane.

Police, fire and ambulance crews were pictured at the scene. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has also been notified.

One local said: 'I couldn't see any smoke or signs of a fire as there was a lot of fire response units. Wasn't very clear what was going on'.

Four people have been rushed to hospital after a wall collapsed at a building site in Edinburgh

Police, fire and ambulance crews are currently in attendance

A spokesperson for the Scottish Ambulance Service said: 'We received a call at 11:01 to attend an incident on Rillbank Crescent, Edinburgh.

'Four ambulances, two special operations response teams (SORT), and a critical care paramedic were dispatched to the scene.

'Four patients were transported to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.'

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: 'Around 11.05am on Wednesday, June 19 2023, we were called to a report of four men injured at a building site in Rillbank Crescent, Edinburgh.

'Emergency services are in attendance and the four men have been taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.

'Health and Safety Executive has been notified.'

The Scottish Fire and Rescue confirmed they were also in attendance.

A HSE spokesperson said: 'We are aware of this incident and making enquiries.'
A police source said they forced the girl to have sex while uttering death threats

The shocking rape of a 12-year-old Jewish girl in an abandoned hangar in a Paris suburb has sparked fury in France as President Emmanuel Macron condemned the 'scourge of anti-Semitism' threatening French schools.

The girl from Courbevoie, in the Hauts-de-Seine suburb northwest of the French capital, told police on Monday that she had been raped at the weekend by three youths - one of whom she said was her ex-boyfriend.

Investigators heard how the gang grabbed her while she was sitting in Courbevoie's Henri Regnault square with her boyfriend and dragged her to a derelict warehouse in the nearby La Defense district to carry out the attack.

A police source said the youths forced her into sex acts 'while uttering death threats and anti-Semitic remarks' amid the heinous attack - as the ex-boyfriend reportedly accused the victim of 'hiding her Jewish religion' from him.

Two of the suspects, both 13, were charged last night with gang rape, anti-Semitic insults and violence and issuing death threats, and held in custody.

The third boy, 12, was also charged with anti-Semitic insults and violence and issuing death threats, but not with rape. He was allowed to return home after being charged.

The girl from Courbevoie, in the Hauts-de-Seine suburb northwest of the French capital, told police that she had been raped last weekend. She said she went to the Henri Regnault square (pictured) with her boyfriend when three teenagers grabbed her and took her to an abandoned hangar on the site of an old nursery nearby

Police set out to detain the attackers after a gynaecological examination at a local hospital on Monday confirmed the girl had been raped.

The boys appeared in front of a judge yesterday afternoon and reportedly admitted to the crimes after the victim's boyfriend was able to identify two of them.

The girl's former boyfriend told police that he was angry she hid being Jewish from him and wanted revenge, according to Le Parisien.

An investigating source said: 'The girl went out with her parents' permission on Saturday at 3pm to meet her current boyfriend.

'She was approached by two teenagers and dragged by force into a shed connected to a disused nursery, as she was returning home through a park near her parents' house in a tower block in La Defense.

'A third minor then joined them, and insulted the young girl about her religion, calling her a dirty Jew.'

According to the girl's initial witness statement, she was beaten, thrown to the ground, and photographed using mobile phones.

The boys allegedly said they would use the images to blackmail her, before saying they would burn her, while placing a lighter by her face.

Various sex acts were then performed on the girl, and she was told she 'would be killed' if she spoke to police.

One of the attackers is said to have asked the girl to return the next day to give him 200 euros  about 170  as part of a blackmail plot.

Investigators allegedly found anti-Semitic comments and images, including that of a burned Israeli flag, on the boy's phone.

One of his friends reportedly told police that he had hit the girl because she said bad things about Palestine.

According to further reports in the French media, the boys all come from the neighbouring suburb of Rueil-Malmaison.

President Emmanuel Macron condemned the 'scourge of anti-Semitism' threatening French schools

France, which is home to Europe's largest Muslim community, experienced a surge in anti-Semitic acts since Hamas' October 7 attack on southern Israel that prompted a brutal retaliatory campaign by Israel in Gaza.

The leaders of France's Jewish community - the largest of any country outside Israel and the United States - expressed horror over the attack as Macron told parliament that more must be done to combat anti-Semitism in schools.

Macron 'spoke solemnly and seriously about the 'scourge of anti-Semitism' in a cabinet meeting, calling for 'dialogue' about racism and hatred of Jews in schools to prevent 'hateful speech with serious consequences' from 'infiltrating' classrooms, a government source told AFP.

Meanwhile, France's chief rabbi Haim Korsia wrote on X that he was 'horrified' and that 'no-one should be excused in the face of this unprecedented wave of anti-Semitism'.

Courbevoie's centre-right mayor Jacques Kossowski condemned what he called 'an abject act' and called for the perpetrators to be met with the full force of the law 'whatever their age.'

Anti-Semitic acts in France increased three-fold in the first months of 2024, compared to the same period a year ago, official figures show.

Of the 1,676 anti-Semitic acts recorded in 2023, 12.7 per cent took place in schools.
Sen. J.D. Vance says he was wrong about Donald Trump when he called him 'reprehensible' and compared him to Hitler.

The Ohio senator was confronted a series of his most incendiary tweets blasting Trump when Trump was seeking the White House and J.D. Vance was a 'never Trumper.'

Many of the digs already surfaced during Vance's run for the Senate in 2022, but they are getting new attention now that he is on Trump's list of potential vice presidential running mates.

'You know, Senator, this is an evolution. And I know you've been asked about this before about past comments that you made about Donald Trump,' Fox News anchor Bret Baier asked Vance before reading aloud some of his most eviscerating comments.

'I'm a never-Trump guy'; 'never liked him'; 'terrible candidate'; 'idiot if you voted for him'; 'might be America's Hitler'; 'might be a cynical a-hole'; 'cultural heroin'; 'noxious and reprehensible,' Baier said. The comments appeared in a graphic on the network broadcast, as the host asked how Vance would deal with his own past criticism if he were Trump's running mate.

'Look, I was wrong about Donald Trump,' said Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, who has compared Donald Trump to Hitler and called him a moral disaster, but who now finds himself on Trump's short list to be vice presidential running mate

'Yeah, well, I think the simple answer is you've gotta respect the American people enough to just level with them,' he responded. 'Look, I was wrong about Donald Trump. I didn't think he was gonna be a good president, Bret. He was a great president. And it's one of the reasons why I'm working so hard to make sure he gets a second term.'

Then he sought to turn his own criticism about Trump into a parable about change, rather than what critics branded expediency.

'I think you should  when you're wrong about something  you should change your mind and be honest with people about that fact,' he said.

Those weren't the only things the populist 'Hillbilly Elegy' author said about Trump. And it was more than a critique of his budget plans.

Vance called Trump a 'moral disaster' in 2017, according to Twitter direct messages unearthed by CNN. He said Trump had 'no domestic policy agenda besides tax cuts.'

Host Bret Baier reeled off some of Vance's greatest hits on Trump. 'I'm a never-Trump guy'; 'never liked him'; 'terrible candidate'; 'idiot if you voted for him'; 'might be America's Hitler'; 'might be a cynical a-hole'; 'cultural heroin'; 'noxious and reprehensible,' the host said, forcing his guest to respond

'When you're wrong about something  you should change your mind and be honest with people about that fact,' Vance said

He also agreed with a host who called Trump a 'total fraud,' saying: 'I don't think he actually cares about folks. I think he just recognizes that there was a hole in the conversation and that hole is that people from these regions of the country, they feel ignored.'

'I'm a Never Trump guy. I never liked him,' he told interviewer Charlie Rose in 2016.

He also 'liked' tweets saying Trump committed 'serial sexual assault' and one calling him ''one of USA's most hated, villainous, douchey celebs,' CNN reported.

His Yale Law School classmate shared a screenshot in 2022 of Vance ruminating, 'I go back and forth between thinking Trump is a cynical a**hole like Nixon who wouldn't be that bad (and might even prove useful) or that he's America's Hitler. How's that for discouraging?'
Furious White House officials reportedly canceled a meeting with Israeli officials to discuss Iran after Benjamin Netanyahu accused the U.S. of withholding weapons and slowing his country's advance in Gaza.

Netanyahu made his claims in a short video, escalating already heightened tension between his hardline administration and President Joe Biden.

Although Biden has delayed the delivery of some heavy bombs amid worries about civilian casualties, officials have gone out of their way not to accuse Israel of overstepping any red lines during its assault on Rafah.

Netanyahu recorded the video on Tuesday describing how he told Biden's secretary of state that Israel would finish the job faster if it had the right tools.

'It's inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunition to Israel ... Israel, America's closest ally fighting for its life, fighting against Iran and our other common enemies,' he said.

Give us the tools and we'll finish the job. pic.twitter.com/eQHpyd9q0X  Benjamin Netanyahu -   (@netanyahu) June 18, 2024

Biden's advisers were enraged by the message, according to the news website Axios.

Two sources said U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein met with the Israeli prime minister to pass on their fury.

Then the White House canceled the Thursday meeting with Israel officials to underline the point.

'This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts,' a U.S. official said.

A senior Israeli official said the message was clear. 'The Americans are fuming. Bibi's video made a lot of damage,' said the official, using a nickname for the Israeli leader.

However, a White House official pushed back on the report and told DailyMail.com that the next meeting of the Israel Strategic Consultative Group had yet to be scheduled so 'nothing has been canceled.'

'In the meantime, meetings with Israeli officials are being held throughout the week at expert and senior levels on a range of topics,' said the official.

'As we said in the briefing yesterday, we have no idea what the prime minister is talking about, but thats not a reason for rescheduling a meeting.'

Earlier on Tuesday, the White House said it was baffled by Netanyahu's statement.

The Biden administration is facing deepening opposition among its own supporters for its backing of Israel's offensive in Gaza. In this image, Palestinian men walk along a narrow street past destroyed buildings in Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip on June 11

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu recorded a short video on Tuesday describing how he told Biden's secretary of state that Israel would finish the job faster if it had the right tools

'We genuinely do not know what he is talking about,' said Biden Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

'There is one shipment that was paused, everything else is moving.'

Secretary of State Antony Blinken was also asked about the issue on Tuesday and said the only pause was related to those heavy bombs from May.

'We, as you know, are continuing to review one shipment that President Biden has talked about with regard to 2,000-pound bombs because of our concerns about their use in a densely populated area like Rafah,' he said during a State Department news conference.

'That remains under review. But everything else is moving as it normally would.'

There has been no let up in fighting after eight months of war, triggered by the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7.

A ball of fire and black smoke rises moments after an Israeli air strike targeted a residential building in the city of Bureij in the central Gaza Strip on June 3, 2024

Relatives and supporters of Israelis taken hostage by Palestinian militants in Gaza in the October 7 attacks, demonstrate calling for their release in the central city of Tel Aviv on June 8, 2024

Biden is under pressure from his own supporters to rein in the Israeli offensive in Gaza

The US has delivered crucial military and diplomatic support ever since the war began.

Two top Democrats in Congress have cleared the way for a $15 billion sale of F-15s to Israel to move forward, after a delay while they sought answers from the Biden administration on Israel's current use of US weapons in the war in Gaza.

Last week, a United Nations investigation concluded that Israel committed crimes against humanity during the war in Gaza, including that of 'extermination', while saying Israeli and Palestinian armed groups have both committed war crimes.

The independent Commission of Inquiry's report - the United Nations' first in-depth investigation into the events of the war that erupted on October 7 - found that Israeli troops have conducted 'a widespread or systematic attack directed against the civilian population in Gaza'.
At one point, Prince William's relationship with his stepmother was so bad that he allegedly 'begged' his father not to marry her.

Prince Harry famously claimed in his bombshell memoir Spare that he and William pleaded with King Charles not to tie the knot with 'wicked stepmother' Camilla.

But today, in touching images, the Prince of Wales and the Queen showed how far they have come in their relationship as they arrived at Royal Ascot together in what was a rare joint outing at a social occasion.

With beaming smiles, the pair looked at ease as they sat with the Earl and Countess of Halifax during the traditional royal carriage procession.

It was the first time that Camilla and William have teamed up since they led senior royals at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in March.

But whilst that was an official engagement, Ascot is not on the roster of duties and so will be seen by royal watchers as a sign of how well William and the Queen now get on.

They were joined by royals including Zara and Mike Tindall and Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, who are today celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary.

And Michael and Carole Middleton attended in what was their first public appearance since their daughter the Princess of Wales was diagnosed with cancer.

The Duchess of York and her daughters Eugenie and Beatrice, along with Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, also delighted crowds.

King Charles - who is continuing his own cancer treatment - did not repeat yesterday's appearance and instead focused on holding audiences at Buckingham Palace.

Prince William was accompanied by Queen Camilla in the traditional carriage procession at Royal Ascot today in what was a rare joint appearance by the pair

The Prince of Wales, who once had a deeply strained relationship with his stepmother, looked at ease as he sat with her and the Earl and Countess of Halifax in front of adoring crowds

William's relationship with Camilla stretches back to the trauma of his childhood.

King Charles embarked on an affair with her in the late 1980s, when he was still married to Princess Diana.

The couple's romance remained low-key until after Diana's death in a car crash in Paris in 1997 - the year after she and Charles had divorced.

Camilla had been seeing Charles when she was still married to first husband Andrew Parker Bowles. They divorced in 1995.

In Spare, Harry likened Camilla to a 'wicked stepmother' and even accused her of leaking stories about him through a palace spin doctor.

However, when Charles and Camilla did get married in April 2005, both William and Harry were present at the ceremony.

In march, William and Camilla shared a giggle when they were joined by Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh for Commonwealth Day.

It was a far cry from their strained appearances in previous years.

At Ascot today, Carole and Michael Middleton beamed as they arrived side-by-side for the prestigious event at the Berkshire racecourse.

Kate, who is continuing her cancer treatment, was not present despite making a welcome appearance at Trooping the Colour at the weekend.

She revealed in a statement on Friday she is making 'good progress' in her treatment but candidly said she has 'good days and bad days' and although there has been some limited working from home, she stressed 'I am not out of the woods yet'.

Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank were in another carriage, and when the procession reached the parade ring, Zara was waiting to greet them all.

Other guests included Andrew Lloyd Webber who was made a Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Monday, attended by the King and Queen and other senior royals.

Queen Camilla attends day two of Royal Ascot 2024 at Ascot Racecourse on June 19, 2024

Queen Camilla is seen sitting opposite Prince William at Royal Ascot today

Prince William sits next to the Earl of Halifax and opposite Queen Camilla at Royal Ascot

Prince William is seen sitting opposite a beaming Queen Camilla and the Countess of Halifax

Queen Camilla, the Prince of Wales and the Earl and Countess of Halifax arrive by carriage during day two of Royal Ascot

The Prince of Wales waves to crowds as he arrives at Royal Ascot next to the Earl of Halifax

Prince William embraces Mike Tindall - the husband of his cousin Zara - at Royal Ascot today

Prince William at Royal Ascot today, mingling with other guests at the famous racecourse

Prince William speaks to the winning team during a presentation as he attends day two of Royal Ascot 2024

Prince of Wales speaks to the winning team during a presentation as he attends day two of Royal Ascot 2024

Prince Edward and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh wave to guests at Royal Ascot today, their 25th wedding anniversary

Princess Anne talks to Mike Tindall at Royal Ascot today. Bar the King and Kate, all senior royals were in attendance

Princess Anne seen at Royal Ascot today. She was one of several royals attending the prestigious event

Zara Tindall embraces Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, at Royal Ascot today

Prince William beams as he mixes with guests at Royal Ascot today

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, stands alongside her daughter Princess Beatrice at Royal Ascot today

Radiant: Carole appeared effortlessly elegant in her blue number from Self-Portrait

Carole Middleton grabs hold of son-in-law Prince William, Prince of Wales's hand as she gets her heel stuck in the grass

Carole Middleton speaks with Prince William, Prince of Wales as they attend day two of Royal Ascot

Carole Middleton drinks a glass of champagne at Royal Ascot today

Princess Beatrice spotted chatting to Zara Tindall ahead of this afternoon's race meet at Ascot

Zara, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Eugenie, Prince Edward and Mike Tindall at Royal Ascot today

Prince William speaks to Carole Middleton at Royal Ascot today

Prince William stands alongside Zara Tindall and his uncle Prince Edward (left) as he waves at Royal Ascot today

Prince William enjoys a laugh with friend James Meade at Royal Ascot today

Princess Beatrice and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi attend Royal Ascot today

Princess Eugenie beams at Royal Ascot today. She was joined by her sister Beatrice and mother the Duchess of York

Prince of Wales plays with the tassel on Prince Eugenie's hat

Princess Eugenie and Lady Laura Meade celebrate after the third race at Royal Ascot today

Jack Brooksbank embraces his wife Princess Eugenie at Royal Ascot today

Zara Tindall embraces Jack Brooksbank, the husband of Princess Eugenie, at Royal Ascot today

Prince William greets his cousin Zara Tindall at Royal Ascot today

Princess Beatrice greets Zara Tindall at Royal Ascot today. The royals turned out in force

Zara Tindall kisses her uncle Prince Edward at Royal Ascot today

Zara kisses Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, on the cheek at Royal Ascot

Jockey Ryan Moore is presented with a winners medal by The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester after Illinois won the Queen's Vase on day two of Royal Ascot

Zara Tindall stands alongside Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, at Royal Ascot today

Princess Eugenie seen at Royal Ascot today. She was joined by her mother and sister

Theatre impresario Lord Lloyd-Webber, whose hit musicals include The Phantom Of The Opera, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar and Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, was joined by his wife.

The Middletons also made their way into the ring to mingle with other guess from the royal box.

In March, Carole was pictured driving a 4x4 Audi, with Kate in the passenger seat, near Windsor Castle. The images were published by US gossip website TMZ.

Then in April, William was spotted on a 'low key' pub outing in Norfolk with his mother-in-law, while his wife stayed at home, The Daily Mail's Richard Eden reported. Carole was said to be staying with the couple over Easter.

For today's appearance, Carole looked effortlessly elegant in her all blue ensemble as she joined her equally sophisticated husband at Ascot.

Her floral dress appeared reminiscent of Kate's 1,275 blue lace creation by Elie Saab, which she first wore to Royal Ascot in 2019. It also featured a dainty bow and pleated detailing.

In march, William and Camilla shared a giggle when they were joined by Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh for the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey

Camilla and William sit next to each other at the Commonwealth Day Service in Westminster Abbey in March 2019. It was Harry and Meghan's final official engagement

Prince William enjoys a laugh with Camilla, then the Duchess of Cornwall, at the Invictus Games opening ceremony in September 2014

William and Camilla sit next to each other at Trooping the Colour in 2007

Prince William and Harry attend the wedding of their father Prince Charles and Camilla at the Guildhall in Windsor in 2005

Royal Ascot, the jewel in the crown of the UK racing calendar, started yesterday with the Queen Anne Stakes and will run until Saturday.

Yesterday, the King and Queen joined punters at the famous race meeting.

Lady Gabriella Windsor, who lost her husband earlier this year, was also present.

Charles and Camilla took on the late Queen's thoroughbreds and have entered a string of horses at the race.

The late Queen was a passionate owner and breeder of thoroughbreds, and had more than 20 Royal Ascot winners during her 70-year reign.
A community meeting in Brooklyn devolved into a shouting match when concerned residents from several family-friendly neighborhoods expressed their extreme dissatisfaction with their councilmember over a huge migrant shelter in the area.

City councilmember Crystal Hudson was met with ire from her constituents as she attempted to speak at the community meeting on Monday night.

Residents in the family-oriented neighborhood of Clinton Hill remain uneasy about the migrant shelter that opened last summer right next to the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

The shelter currently accommodates more than 3,000 single men who crossed the southern border illegally before being transported to New York City.

Residents fear the massive shelter puts their children and the area in danger.

Councilwoman Crystal Hudson (center) - who had City Speaker Adrienne Adams and Comptroller Brad Lander by her side - spoke with angry Brooklyn residents

The Clinton Hill residents are irate about the migrant shelter in the Brooklyn Navy Yard that they feel is endangering their children

Some spectators, who want the city to reduce the size of the shelters, heckled Hudson over her perceived lack of involvement.



CM Hudson: "We have literally said exactly what you just said....I understand the frustration. I get it....But my office has done everything we can."  Arya Sundaram (@arya_sundaram) June 18, 2024

Hudson did not help her case when she stood up in the middle of the meeting to announce a stabbing had occurred earlier in the day right by the shelter.

'There was an incident earlier today - its not the first incident, I hope it will be the last - there was a stabbing that was at the park,' said Hudson.

The victim was reportedly treated at the scene. It is not clear whether any migrants were involved in the stabbing.

But Hudson's comments nonetheless further ignited intense frustration among the crowd at the Boys and Girls Navy Yard Clubhouse.

The news prompted several already angered constituents to stand up and begin shouting.

'You are avoiding the issue,' said one man into a microphone, speaking about the shelter. 'Is there a universe where the city can safely house 3,200 single men together?'

'It can't!' shouted some people in the crowd in response.

'It is unsafe! It is unsafe!' cried others.

Last week, a young male migrant was stabbed when a fight broke out outside the shelter.

During the meeting, Hudson - who had City Speaker Adrienne Adams and Comptroller Brad Lander by her side - encouraged angry attendees to save their wrath for City Hall.

She went on to blame the mayor for a lack of support in dealing with the migrant crisis.

'We have literally said exactly what you just said ... I understand the frustration. I get it ... But my office has done everything we can,' she said, according to local reporter Arya Sundaram.

The makeshift migrant shelter next to the Brooklyn Navy Yard currently houses more than 3,000 single male migrants

Hudson (right) with New York Senator and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer

Hudson attempted to tell her constituents to take their frustration out on the NYC mayor's office, which she says has offered inadequate support on the migrant question

Mayor Eric Adams, who has previously expressed frustration at the city's lack of resources and legal ability to stem the flow of tens of thousands of migrants sent to NYC - a sanctuary city - from the border.

Alejandro Gonzalez, a spokesperson for Councilwoman Hudson, said in a statement to the New York Post that her office confirmed its commitment to 'caring for' undocumented migrants.

'Weve seen people come together to routinely provide material support for migrants. However, individual generosity doesnt preclude the governments need to steer collective action, and so far the mayors office has failed in that regard,' he also said.

'There is a need for the city to provide additional resources to address the emerging challenges facing new and longtime residents alike as well as sharing a vision for a long-term strategy that we can all work toward across the five boroughs.'
The parents of an eight year-old girl sucked to her death in a hotel lazy river are to blame for the tragedy, according to a shocking new legal filing.

Aliyah Jaico, 8, died after being sucked into a one-foot wide pipe in the pool's lazy river, with Northwest Hospitality Services - which manages the hotel where the tragedy unfolded - saying they're free of blame for the incident.

The youngster was on vacation with her family at the DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Brookhollow in Texas when she disappeared on March 30. Northwest Hospitality paid Hilton to license the brand name.

Aaliyah's parents declared her missing at 9:45pm, before search and rescue teams deduced she had gone underwater and never resurfaced. Her body was found wedged in a narrow pipe hours later, with a $1 million lawsuit since filed.

A management company being sued by the parents of Aliyah Jaico, 8, who drowned in one of their swimming pools has blamed the grieving mom for her death

Northwest asserts that Plaintiffs engaged in negligent acts and/or omissions that proximately caused the alleged injuries and damages,' the court document states, Click2 Houston reports.

The statement echoed one issued by local owners of the hotel Unique Crowne Hospitality, which is also being sued along with Hilton.

'We believe that Ayliah was violently sucked in the hole that was 12 to 16 inches wide,' family attorney Richard Nava previously said. He added she couldn't have swam in there on her own.

'Her poor little body was contoured when she was sucked into this hole and pipe 20 feet back. Her body was inside of the motor when she had to be extracted. They had to break up concrete in order to extract her, cut pipe. It was absolutely horrific.

Just before the drowning, Nava detailed how Aliyah might have been helping her five-year-old sister, who was also in the pool and possibly also getting sucked into the same pipe that ultimately claimed her sister's life.

A 13-year-old relative stepped in to help the five-year-old and prevent her from drowning. Once the chaos stopped, her family realized Aliyah was missing.

Jaico died after being sucked into a one-foot wide pipe in the pool's lazy river

Her parents declared her missing at 9:45pm, before search and rescue teams deduced she had gone underwater and never resurfaced. Her body was found wedged in a narrow pipe hours later

Aliyah's cause of death was 'drowning and mechanical asphyxia' and appeared to be an accident

It wasn't until the mom called in search and rescue team Texas Equusearch, that the video was shown to police and rescuers.

You could see her little head go down, and never been seen again, so it was pretty obvious something happened and she never got out of the pool,' Tim Miller of Texas Equusearch, who saw the video, described.

Described as an avid swimmer, Aliyah was reported missing around 6 p.m., but her mangled body wasn't recovered until 7 a.m. the next day after rescue divers used poles with cameras attached to them and spotted her little hand inside of a pool pipe.

How her body was wedged in there, actually shut the pump, shut that suction off. There really wasnt any suction. Her little body was all the way to the motor, so it took her in a good distance,' Miller said.

Multiple violations were found by the Houston Fire Department when a team inspected the swimming pool Monday, reported the local ABC station.

The pool had recently under gone repairs, Miller revealed.

Her devastated mother wrote: 'Thank you, my love, for the eight years you gave me by your side. Thank you, my girl, for teaching me what love is and a noble heart'

Aliyah Jaico is pictured posing by a pool. The girl's 'little hand and part of her body' were the first to appear, having been 'wedged' deep inside the pipe, authorities said

The swimming pool at DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Brookhollow

If that pump was wired wrong, that would create the pipe was blowing water out to to suck in,' he stated.

'Right beside there, there was another pipe with a grate on it. Thats the one thats supposed to be sucking in, because its basically a circulation pump.

The lawsuit also includes a restraining order, forcing the hotel to give Aliyah's family and lawyers access to the pool, which they are currently refusing, Nava disclosed.

According to the Harris County Institute of Forensic Science, the girl's preliminary cause of death was 'drowning and mechanical asphyxia' and appeared to be an accident.
At least one woman has reportedly admitted to the House Ethics Committee that Matt Gaetz paid her for sex through Venmo.

Investigators on the committee have interviewed half a dozen women, according to ABC News, and the women have been shown Venmo payments from the Florida Republican to them and asked if they were for sex.

The women allegedly had attended parties with Gaetz and his former friend Joel Greenberg, who in 2022 was sentenced to 11 years in prison for sex trafficking a minor.

While one woman said she was paid directly for sex, others said they were paid to attend the parties that featured drugs and sex.

The House Ethics Committee in a rare public statement announced they would conduct 'further review' into Rep. Matt Gaetz on charges that include sex abuse and illicit drug use.

The women allegedly had attended parties with Gaetz and his former friend Joel Greenberg, who in 2022 was sentenced to 11 years in prison for sex trafficking a minor

Gaetz has denied all of the allegations that have long swirled around him, including paying for sex. 'Someone is trying to recategorize my generosity to ex-girlfriends as something more untoward,' he said previously.

The Ethics Committee obtained Gaetz's Venmo records through a subpoena.

The Department of Justice previously investigated Gaetz for alleged sex trafficking a minor but informed him they would not bring charges in 2023 after issues of witness credibility.

The Ethics Committee in a rare public statement on Tuesday announced they would conduct 'further review' into Gaetz on charges that include sex abuse and illicit drug use.

Gaetz on Monday had said the committee was opening 'new frivolous investigations' into him which he blamed on former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

The allegations the committee said it is conducting further review on include whether Gaetz 'engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use, accepted improper gifts, dispensed special privileges and favors to individuals with whom he had a personal relationship, and sought to obstruct government investigations of his conduct.'

The new investigation is the obstruction probe. Others have been ongoing.

Gaetz has denied all of the allegations and the committee said he has been 'difficult' to obtain information from. They've already spoken with more than a dozen witnesses, issued 25 subpoenas and reviewed thousands of pages of documents.

The committee confirmed they will no longer conduct further review into whether Gaetz 'shared inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, misused state identification records, converted campaign funds to personal use, and/or accepted a bribe or improper gratuity.'

Gaetz sounded off about the committee on X: 'The House Ethics Committee has closed four probes into me, which emerged from lies intended solely to smear me. Instead of working with me to ban Congressional stock trading, the Ethics Committee is now opening new frivolous investigations. They are doing this to avoid the obvious fact that every investigation into me ends the same way: my exoneration.'

'This is Soviet. Kevin McCarthy showed them the man, and they are now trying to find the crime. I work for Northwest Floridians who won't be swayed by this nonsense and McCarthy and his goons know it.'

McCarthy insisted that Gaetz launched the motion to vacate him from the speakership because he was angry that McCarthy would not end the Ethics probe into him.

The committee previously paused then restarted its probe into Gaetz so as not to interfere with a separate Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation. The DOJ opted not to indict Gaetz over claims he sex trafficked a 17-year-old girl.

Gaetz has consistently denied allegations he helped a local Florida tax collector friend Joel Greenberg traffic the girl across state lines.

Greenberg was sentenced to 11 years in prison in December 2022 after he pled guilty in a plea deal.

Gaetz on Monday had said the committee was opening 'new frivolous investigations' into him which he blamed on former Speaker Kevin McCarthy

Gaetz first came to investigators' attention because of his friendship with Greenberg, described as his 'wingman', who last year pleaded guilty to six counts of fraud and sexual offenses.

Greenberg told investigators that Gaetz and at least two other men had sexual contact with a 17-year-old girl.

He has told them that they both gave women cash and gifts in exchange for sex.

Greenberg pleaded guilty to identity theft, stalking, wire fraud, conspiracy to bribe a public official and sex trafficking of a minor.
Moderate political groups could play an influential role in San Franciscos next election. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

Regarding S.F.s progressive leaders have failed the city. Heres who is picking up the pieces (Letters to the Editor, SFChronicle.com, June 14): Letter writer Todd David of Abundant SF reveals himself and his colleagues when he says, San Francisco is  and always will be  a blue, capital D Democrat city.

Theres a reason Republican-funded and billionaire-backed organizations like Abundant SF, GrowSF and Neighbors for a Better SF must brand themselves and their policies as moderate. They are fully aware that San Franciscans are more likely to align with moderates than let Republican-led groups take power in our city.

People should look into who has funded these organizations and their ties to conservative politics. We must not blindly believe everything a well-funded, well-marketed nonprofit is touting. In fact, we must be even more skeptical.

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Gillian Garaci, San Francisco

Time for single-payer health

Regarding My father-in-law is fighting for his life with cancer. He shouldnt have to fight insurance companies, too (Open Forum, SFChronicle.com, June 15): The lead paragraph in Dr. Dipti Barots Open Forum is worth repeating: There is no experience more uniquely, more perversely, more quintessentially American than a sick patient battling their insurance company.

Sadly, as her account points out, its usually when Americans need their insurance because of a catastrophic accident or illness that its shortcomings are revealed: When the profit motive of the insurance company takes precedence over patient care.

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Californias 30-year effort to adopt a single-payer health care system, like those in many industrialized nations, has been unsuccessful. The most recent attempt, proposed in AB2200, was shelved a month ago by the Assembly Appropriations Committee, despite a 2022 report from Healthy California for All Commission that said a unified financing system would save the state and its residents $500 billion over the next decade.

AB2200 would not have been implemented until funded. I urge you to read Dr. Barots full article and consider whether its time to take the business out of Californias health care system.

Linda Baumann, Davis

Court exerts power

Regarding How California is affected by Supreme Courts rejection of federal bump stock ban (Politics, SFChronicle.com, June 14): The legalization of bump stocks is awful enough, but it obscures an additional factor.

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This Supreme Court decision is a continuation of a push to eliminate the ability of government agencies to create laws and policies. This ruling is another step in ensuring that only the Supreme Court, together with the friends of the court, can make the rules and decide policy for the states and the nation.

Charles Huddleston, Aptos, Santa Cruz County

Give teachers a break

Regarding S.F. is struggling to hire first responders. This new plan would pay student debt to boost staffing (San Francisco, SFChronicle.com, June 15): This is a good idea that could help relieve the shortage of police officers. Perhaps this same relief could be offered to beginning teachers in San Francisco to relieve that shortage as well.

San Francisco police officers have a beginning salary of $103,116 and a four-year degree is not required. Beginning city teacher salaries start at $66,340 and they are required to pay for a four-year college degree and an extra year of college for a state teaching credential.

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It seems only fair that teachers should receive this same loan forgiveness benefit.

Paul Giganti, Albany

Good spot for UC

Regarding Golden Gate Fields is closed. So whats next for this bayside property with panoramic views? (Bay Area, SFChronicle.com, June 12): Has the University of California considered a Berkeley west campus for the Golden Gate Fields site?

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

Such a campus could have buildings for instruction and dormitory and apartment housing.

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By keeping expansion near the present campus, students could attend classes at both locations and commute by bike, bus or shuttle. They would still feel like part of UC Berkeley, not an offshoot like a campus in San Franciscos Financial District would be.
A former Fujitsu boss thought its doomed Horizon IT system was a major success and that the Post Office was a satisfied customer, he told an inquiry into the scandal.

Richard Christou, who was chief executive at the Japanese firms holding company until he retired in 2012, said he was unaware of problems with the software which sent postmasters to prison amid false claims they had stolen from their branches.

And he said he had no knowledge of the prosecution of postmasters by the Post Office.

More than 700 subpostmasters were prosecuted for theft by the firm and handed criminal convictions between 1999 and 2015 as the faulty IT system it used, known as Horizon, made it appear as though money was missing at their branches.

Richard Christou said he was unaware of problems

More than 700 subpostmasters were prosecuted for theft by the Post Office

Many were sent to jail and bankrupted, while at least four are believed to have taken their own lives over it.

Prosecutions continued to happen under the watch of disgraced chief executive Paula Vennells, despite repeatedly being told there were concerns about the reliability of the evidence used to take innocent workers to court.

Giving evidence to the inquiry into the scandal in London today [weds], Mr Christou hit back at suggestions he was ultimately accountable for business operations.

He said: I dont accept that, thats too broad.

If you mean that I was responsible for the miscarriage of justice then I dont accept that.

Its not to mitigate the miscarriage of justice, I should add I think its a gross miscarriage of justice.

I really feel for the subpostmasters and the postmasters who are involved, but talking about accountability is a different matter.

And certainly I knew nothing about it.

Mr Christou said technical issues were dealt with at a technical level, and not presented to the board.

And he said he was unable to point the finger at who was responsible for wrongly sending branch workers to prison.

In his statement to the inquiry, he said: I have been asked my opinion on the question of who might be responsible for the miscarriage of justice in respect of certain prosecutions of postmasters by Post Office. Since I have no knowledge of this issue, I do not feel able to give such an opinion.

In particular, I had no knowledge of the prosecution of postmasters by Post Office.

I always regarded Horizon as one of (Fujitsus) major successes, with Post Office as a satisfied customer.

After I retired in 2012, my only relations with Fujitsu were through a consultancy agreement.

Mr Christou said technical issues were dealt with at a technical level

I was never consulted under this agreement about any issues relating to Horizon and thus, although I became aware of the issues between Post Office and the postmasters through a few reports in the press, I therefore did not enquire further into the matter.

The inquiry previously heard subpostmasters repeatedly tried to raise concerns that money wrongly appeared to be missing from their branches, but were told simply to phone the Horizon helpline.

Forensic accounts called in to investigate later uncovered a slew of major concerns with the reliability of the system, and the victimisation of sub-postmasters - casting serious doubt over the strength of prosecutions.

It emerged this year that Fujitsu has been awarded billions of pounds in Government contracts, with some deals due to run until summer 2029.

The Japanese firm is currently sitting on agreements worth more than 1 billion for departments including the Home Office, the Foreign Office, and the Ministry of Justice.

The biggest is a five-year deal with HM Revenue and Customs, worth half a billion pounds, to provide all of its desktop and workspace services.

The firm is described in official documents as a trusted partner.

The inquiry continues.
Just Stop Oil's latest stunt which involved spraying Stonehenge with orange paint made from cornflour has alienated even some of their most loyal supporters, with historians, climate activists and politicians all criticising the move.

The Prime Minister said the group is a 'disgrace' while Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer added the damage was 'outrageous' after two people, wearing white shirts with Just Stop Oil emblazoned on the front, ran up to the ancient monoliths with canisters and sprayed paint all over them.

In a heroic attempt to stop the group desecrating the stones, one woman was seen desperately trying to drag the protesters away before other members of the public piled in to help her.

The protesters, who were named as Niamh Lynch, 21, a student from Oxford, and Rajan Naidu, 73, from Birmingham, have now been arrested by police on suspicion of damaging the historical monument.

As police officers led the pair away, one man, who said he was a druid, could be heard shouting: 'You dirty scum. This is a temple, not a publicity stunt!'

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has condemned the attack as a 'disgraceful act of vandalism to one of the UK's and the world's oldest and most important monuments.'

Just Stop Oil protesters have sprayed Stonehenge with orange paint in their latest stunt

Video footage posted on social media showed two people wearing white shirts with Just Stop Oil on running up to the monoliths with canisters spraying paint

Members of the public were seen trying to prevent the protesters by dragging them away

Oxford University student Niamh Lynch, 21, warned of the coming 'death and destruction' to be wrought by the climate crisis

The Prime Minister continued: 'Just Stop Oil should be ashamed of their activists, and they and anyone associated with them, including a certain Labour Party donor, should issue a condemnation of this shameful act immediately.'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said 'Just Stop Oil are pathetic' after activists from the group targeted Stonehenge.

In a tweet, he wrote: 'The damage done to Stonehenge is outrageous. Just Stop oil are pathetic. Those responsible must face the full force of the law.'

Historian Tom Holland, who has previously hailed Stonehenge as one of Europe's most precious prehistoric sites, also criticised the attack.

He wrote on X: 'Parade your concern for the planet by destroying endangered lichens. Sympathy transmuted into utter loathing.'

And even environmental activists questioned whether the group's action was proportionate.

One wrote: 'While I applaud those taking direct action, I'm not so sure this target works either politically or aesthetically.'

A second, who said he has previously been 'pretty vocal' in his support for the group, added: 'You are alienating far more people than you are inspiring through an action that simply garners a few column inches. Tackle those responsible for the climate crisis.'

Eyewitnesses at Stonehenge said their stunt 'beggars belief'.

Furious visitors told how they have been left 'devastated' after witnessing two Just Stop Oil protesting at Stonehenge by covering its sarsen stones in bright powder paint.

One couple travelled 5,000 miles from the west coast of the USA to see Stonehenge and said it has 'ruined' it for visitors.

Another couple from Newcastle, 325 miles away from Wiltshire, likened the incident to the Sycamore Gap tree felling.

Others said the heroic woman who can be seen wrestling with the Just Stop Oil protesters is a staff member who works at Stonehenge.

Tourists also said after the incident they were banned from walking around the stones and that staff 'hosed down' the powder paint but couldn't remove it all.

A druid was also seen 'cursing' the 'two idiots' who staged the protest.

Nestled in the Wiltshire countryside near Salisbury, Stonehenge is one of the top tourist attractions in the UK thanks to its mysterious beauty.

The historical landmark dates back 5,000 years, with the famous circle of sarsen stones being placed between 2600 BC and 2400 BC.

After Just Stop Oil's act today - which Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described as 'a disgraceful act of vandalism' - visitors were left seething.

In a video posted by the group, a woman - who is thought to work at the site - can be seen taking matters into her own hands and pulling the sprayers away from the stones.

Sean Moran, 64, has been a blue badge guide taking families around the site since 2012 and said he had never seen anything like it as the protesters used extinguisher-like canisters to spray the historic stones.

'It was devastating,' he said, 'I was very angry. We were having a great time and enjoying it when it happened.

Several stones were covered in the substance before the protesters stopped and sat cross legged on the grass

One woman was seen desperately trying to drag the protesters away during the incident

'I quickly realised it was the Just Stop Oil people.

'A security guard couldn't handle it and tourists jumped in.'

Of the woman who jumped in, he said: 'She worked here. It was just crazy. In my mind there's a link to the solstice to maximise publicity.'

He pointed out the potential hypocrisy in the protesters' actions, adding: 'There's living lichen on those stones.

'Biologists from around the world to study it - did they think of that?'

Paul Anderson, 59 and his wife Elaine, 55, were down from Newcastle on holiday with their daughter.

Mr Anderson said: 'It was two idiots. We were around the other side, and we saw a lot of orange mist.

'I can't see how that's good publicity, doing something like that to an ancient monument.

'Coming from Newcastle, after the Sycamore Gap tree was felled - it beggars belief. It's a shame.'

Mrs Anderson said: 'It's ruined the day, but not the holiday. I'm not going to let them - how dare you.

'It's the last thing you'd expect. There was a lot of shouting from me. There was only one small woman who tried to stop them.'

Mike and Julie, who did not wish to give their surname, had travelled 5,000 miles from the west coast of the USA to see Stonehenge.

However, as a result of the protesters, the path to walk amongst the stones was shut down by security and police, as they could only be observed from afar.

'It's a shame, it really is,' Mike said. 'They are ruining it for people who have come from across the world to have their moment and see it.'

Julie added: 'They spray painted the stones. The police apprehended them and they said they now have to survey the structure.

'They don't know if they can get the paint off.'

Sheryl Hope, 59, who was visiting from Kent before picking up her son from university tomorrow, lamented Just Stop Oil's tactics.

'They're still looking quite orange,' she said, having visited after the protest. 'They hosed it down, but there was a lot of. It's upsetting, today of all days, which is why they did it.

'I don't agree with the methods at all. I understand the message, I just don't agree with the method.'

Robin Clark, 63, arrived at the scene to see a druid 'cursing' the protesters.

'There was a lot of orange paint,' he said. 'You weren't allowed to walk amongst the stones afterwards. That was very disappointing as I was expecting to do that.'

The engineer said of their methods: 'I don't really agree with it, I think they are going down the wrong route.'

Several stones - dating back to the late Neolithic period - were covered during the incident, which happened at around 12pm today, the day before the summer solstice is celebrated at Stonehenge, which is the heart of a World Heritage site.

The incident happened on Wednesday at about 12pm, the day before the summer solstice is celebrated at Stonehenge, which is at the heart of a World Heritage site.

Around 8,000 people gathered at Stonehenge to mark the longest day of the year in 2023, with similar numbers expected on Thursday.

The solstice will be celebrated from 7pm on Thursday until 8am on Friday.

Wiltshire Police said officers had attended the scene and arrested two people.

A spokesman added: 'At around noon, we responded to a report that orange paint had been sprayed on some of the stones by two suspects.

'Officers attended the scene and arrested two people on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument.

'Our inquiries are ongoing, and we are working closely with English Heritage.'

English Heritage said experts were assessing the 'extent of the damage' on the stones.

A spokeswoman said: 'Orange powdered paint has been thrown at a number of the stones at Stonehenge.

'Obviously, this is extremely upsetting and our curators are investigating the extent of the damage. Stonehenge remains open to the public.'

Just Stop Oil supporters desecrate Stonehenge in orange powder paint

Other members of the public later tried to help the women wrestle the canister off the protesters

The stones were supposedly sprayed with orange cornflour, which Just Stop Oil claimed would 'soon wash away with the rain'

One picture shows the two protesters before the paint attack, as they are seen blending in among the crowds on tourists

A Just Stop Oil spokesperson said: 'The UK's government in waiting has committed to enacting Just Stop Oil's original demand of 'no new oil and gas'. However, we all know this is not enough. Continuing to burn coal, oil and gas will result in the death of millions.

'We have to come together to defend humanity or we risk everything. That's why Just Stop Oil is demanding that our next government sign up to a legally-binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.

'Failure to commit to defending our communities will mean Just Stop Oil supporters, along with citizens from Austria, Canada, Norway, the Netherlands and Switzerland, will join in resistance this summer, if their own governments do not take meaningful action.

'Stone circles can be found in every part of Europe showing how we've always co-operated across vast distances - we're building on that legacy.'

The group said it used orange cornflour paint to spray onto the stones, which it claimed would 'soon wash away with the rain'.

Security measures around the monument are notoriously lax, with just a small cordon of rope in place around the perimeter of the stones to deter people getting too close as well as a few guards dotted around the site.

Tourists were previously able to get much closer to the monument, but tougher restrictions were put in place after some visitors attempted to carve their name into the rocks or take pieces of the monument home.

Niamh Lynch, 21, and Rajan Naidu, 73, sit in front of Stonehenge after spraying the ancient stones in orange paint

The pair (pictured) have now been arrested by police on suspicion of damaging the monument

Protesters Niamh Lynch, who is a student from Oxford, and Rajan Naidu, from Birmingham, are seen stood in front of the paint covered monoliths

Miss Lynch is a a student from Oxford with a keen interest in birds

In quotes provided by Just Stop Oil, Miss Lynch, said to be a student from Oxford, said the continued burning of oil, coal and gas was leading to 'death and suffering'.

'It's time for us to think about what our civilization will leave behind - what is our legacy?' she said. 'Standing inert for generations works well for stones - not climate policy.'

Miss Lynch's social media profiles reveal that she has a keen interest in birds as the current president of the Oxford Ornithological Student Society and a Youth Representative at the British Trust for Ornithology.

Rajan added: 'Either we end the fossil fuel era, or the fossil fuel era will end us.

'Just as fifty years ago, when the world used international treaties to defuse the threats posed by nuclear weapons, today the world needs a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty to phase out fossil fuels and to support dependent economies, workers and communities to move away from oil, gas and coal.'

Rajan, a civil rights advocate from Birmingham, was previously arrested during a JSO protest at the Kingsbury Oil Terminal. He was sentenced to 34 days in prison after he and more than 50 other activists blocked access to the site in September 2022.

English Heritage describes Stonehenge as perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument.

It was built in several stages, with the first an early henge monument erected about 5,000 years ago.

The stone circle was erected in the late Neolithic period, about 2,500 BC. Burial mounds were built nearby in the early Bronze Age.

Stonehenge, together with Avebury, forms the heart of a World Heritage Site.

English Heritage describes Stonehenge as perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument

The Just Stop Oil incident came just a day before the summer solstice is celebrated at Stonehenge. Revellers are pictured during last year's celebrations

Revelers perform yoga soon after sun rise at the ancient stone circle Stonehenge to celebrate the Summer Solstice in 2019

It is not the first time the eco-group has attempted to disrupt an event using canisters containing orange paint.

Earlier this month, two silver-haired protesters were led away by police after unleashing a cloud of orange paint at the Duke of Westminster's society wedding of the year to Olivia Hanson.

Two women, 73 and 69, let off a fire extinguisher containing orange powder paint in the direction of the wedding party, which included the Prince of Wales, as they left Chester Cathedral.

The protesters, who have since been arrested, were quickly removed from the crowd by police as onlookers booed. They were named by JSO as Polly, 73, a care worker from Norfolk, and Sheila, 69, a former NHS nurse from Bristol.

Hugh Grosvenor, 33, universally known as 'Hughie' to aristocratic friends, is estimated to be worth 10.42billion, making him the richest man under 40 in Britain.

The landowner, who married Olivia Henson, is the godfather to William's son Prince George and Prince Harry's son Archie. But while William played a major role at the service among 400 or so expected guests, Harry remained in California.

Olivia, 31, looked stunning in her wedding dress and blue shoes as she left the 11th Century Cathedral alongside her new husband as they made their way to a waiting Bentley.

But at around 12.30pm, two Just Stop Oil fanatics used fire extinguishers to spray powder paint in their direction.

Barbara Williams, 81, from Cheshire, who was standing next to the protesters in the crowd, said: 'I feel a bit shaken after it.

'We were standing next to them all day.'

A Just Stop Oil protester is led away by police after trying to disrupt the Duke of Westminster's Wedding on June 7

A second silver-haired protester was also arrested following the killjoy stunt

The moment clouds of powder paint were released from two fire extinguishers

Two women let off a fire extinguisher containing the orange powder paint in the direction of the wedding party, which included the Prince of Wales

Her friend Andrea Machin, 56, added: 'They were already here when we arrived at 7am, they had shopping trolleys with them.

'Everyone was watching the bride and groom and then we just saw orange and they had what looked like a fire extinguisher with them.

'The police realised quite quickly what was happening and pulled them out. One of them said it was for her grandchildren. It happened just as William was coming out of the door.'

Rhona Dalziel, 57, said: 'One of them had been reading a Richard Osman book. It's bizarre.'

A spokesman for Cheshire Police told MailOnline: 'Shortly after 1pm on Friday a coloured flare was released by two women, believed to be protesting on behalf of Just Stop Oil, on St Werburgh Street, Chester.

'Officers were immediately on the scene and two women were quickly arrested on suspicion of public order offences.

'The 69-year-old woman from Manchester and 73-year-old woman from Suffolk are both in police custody at this time.'
A murderer freed from jail and pardoned by Vladimir Putin to fight in Ukraine has been detained on suspicion of killing a girl, 12, and dumping her body in a well.

A massive search had been underway for Karina Kabikova after she was reported missing on Tuesday morning on Telegram.

Now convicted killer Andrei Bykov, 49, has been detained after the child's body was discovered on Wednesday in a disused well close to an abandoned building in Topki, a town in the Siberian region of Kemerovo in Russia, according to news outlet Ria Novosti.

Investigations are ongoing to establish whether the child was sexually abused. There were reportedly 'signs of violence' on the schoolgirl's body.

Bykov was serving a 14-year sentence for murdering an elderly woman in 2019. He had allegedly struck the pensioner on the head with a bucket, and strangled her with tape. He was supposed to serve until 2032.

Convicted killer Andrei Bykov, 49, pardoned and freed from jail by Vladimir Putin to fight in Ukraine, who was detained today under the suspicion of killing schoolgirl Karina Kabikova, 12, whose body with signs of violence was found in a well in Topki, a town in the Kemerovo region of Russia. Pictured: Bykov while a prisoner of war in Ukraine

After just three years behind bars, however, he was released under a Putin scheme to send convicts to the frontline.

He had also previously been convicted of involving minors in crime.

He served in the Russian military but was captured by Ukrainian forces last year, and was shown in a video highlighting how Putin was sending killers to fight for him.

In the clip, he spoke about how the Russian defence ministry offered him 'mountains of gold' to go and fight.

Bykov had already been convicted at least six times on charges of theft, making death threats, crime involving minors, and murder, according Novaya Gazeta Europe.

Pictured: Murdered schoolgirl Karina Kabikova, 12, whose body was found in a well in Topki, a town in the Kemerovo region of Russia

Karina had been reported missing on Tuesday

In the video he also explained that he led a life of crime, constantly returning to jail.

'In 1991, I committed my first crime, and have been regularly in prison ever since,' he told his Ukrainian interrogator.

'During the brief periods of freedom, usually two or three months, I did odd jobs.

'Then, I would commit another crime and return to jail.

'I was imprisoned for murder, and was supposed to be in prison until 2032.'

Bykov said: 'On 29 October 2023, people from the [Russian] Ministry of Defence came to my penal colony, IK-29 in Kemerovo, where I was serving my sentence.

'They started offering contracts to go and fight [against Ukraine].

'They promised us mountains of gold.'

Earlier this year, Ukraine exchanged him in a prisoner of war swap, and he was allowed to go home to his village of Maly Korchugan, close to Topki.

According to Radio Free Europe Radio Liberty, the number of crimes in Russia committed by convicts recruited from Russian penitentiaries who fought in Ukraine has been on the rise since early 2023.
LISTEN: Our award-winning series, The Trial of Lucy Letby is back. Follow all of the latest in the case against the former neo-natal nurse, wherever you get your podcasts now

A hospital consultant told a jury today how he walked into an intensive care nursery to find Lucy Letby standing beside a baby's ventilator and doing nothing as the infant collapsed.

Dr Ravi Jayaram said he and a number of colleagues already had concerns about the neonatal nurse's behaviour at the Countess of Chester Hospital, and felt 'uncomfortable' about her being briefly alone with Baby K.

He had just finished arranging the infant's transfer to a higher-level hospital, while Baby K's designated nurse, Joanne Williams, left the unit to inform her parents of the move.

'I was sitting at a desk close to the nurses' station, with my back to the wall,' he told the jury at Manchester Crown Court.

'Joanne told me she was going to update K's parents. I'd probably just spoken to the transport team, so she would have been going to update them about where K was going to be. She said Lucy Letby was babysitting.'

Lucy Letby, 34, is accused of attempting to murder Baby K by displacing a breathing tube within two hours of her birth

Dr Ravi Jayaram (pictured) told a jury today how he walked into an intensive care nursery to find Lucy Letby standing beside a baby's ventilator and doing nothing as the infant collapsed

He continued: 'At this time, February 2016, we had had a number of unusual incidents with babies and a number of colleagues and myself had noticed the association with Lucy Letby being present at these things. We'd had a thematic review and not found any other factors.

'I was sitting there and  I'll be very honest  I felt very uncomfortable. Obviously you can say that's completely irrational, and my internal dialogue was very much "Stop being stupid, get on with your work".

LISTEN TO THE TRIAL OF LUCY LETBY The Trial of Lucy Letby: Baby K The Mail's award-winning podcast is back! Join us as we examine key moments of the retrial and conduct exclusive interviews with detectives, victims, and experts. Listen wherever you get your podcasts now. Advertisement

'But I needed to go in just to reassure myself that everything was okay.

'It was around two-and-a-half to three minutes, maybe, from Joanne telling me she was going to K's parents that I stood up and walked into the nursery. I went in the doorway closes to the nurses' station.

'I came around the wall and walked towards the incubator. As I was walking towards it the first thing I looked at was the monitors above the incubator.

'So as I walked in that direction I could see the screens in front of me. The oxygen saturations were dropping  in the low 80s and going downwards.

'Lucy Letby was standing next to the incubator. She was looking at me. She didn't have hands in the incubator.

'She was definitely facing in my direction. I can't remember whether she was directly facing or slightly angled towards the monitor.

'I asked something like "What's happening?"

'Lucy looked up and said "Oh, it looks as though she's desaturating".

'What was of note is that all of the alarms are set to alarm immediately.

'I didn't look to see whether the button to suspend them was pressed, but the saturations were going down and continued to go down. There was no alarm'.

Dr Jayaram would have heard any alarm if it was sounding, and had any been activated he would have gone into Nursery 1 earlier.

Dr Ravi Jayaram said he and a number of colleagues already had concerns about the neonatal nurse's behaviour at the Countess of Chester Hospital (pictured)

'I was sitting at a desk close to the nurses' station, with my back to the wall,' Dr Jayaram told the jury at Manchester Crown Court (pictured)

Letby, 34, is accused of attempting to murder Baby K by displacing a breathing tube within two hours of her birth.

The former nurse is currently serving 14 whole life orders after being convicted last August of murdering seven babies in her care and attempting to murder a further six.

The jury in her original trial could not reach a verdict in the case of Baby K. At the retrial on a charge of attempted murder Letby has pleaded not guilty.

Dr Jayaram said: 'I looked at K because the important thing is to look at the baby. What I saw when I looked at K was whereas previously her chest was moving up and down, her chest was not moving. The ventilator was still delivering breaths'.

The medic checked Baby K's respiratory and other systems with a series of rapid checks  'almost a reflex, like doing an emergency stop in a car'.

Sometimes tubes could become blocked with secretions, although that didn't normally happen suddenly but over a period of minutes.

He revived the infant by removing the ET tube and giving her oxygen via a mask.

Dr Jayaram said: 'She picked up extremely quickly, within a few breaths'.

Asked by Nick Johnson KC, prosecuting, whether there was any indication of action by Letby, Dr Jayaram replied: 'There was no evidence of her having done anything before I came in. I would not say there was. I wasn't looking, but there wasn't any evidence of that'.

Asked if he could recall Letby's precise words when he walked in, he said: 'I don't remember the precise words. It was along the lines of "She's deteriorating".'

He had heard no shout for help from the neonatal nurse.

The doctor said: 'I was surprised the alarm was not going off. In retrospect I'm surprised hadn't been called, given that K was a 25-week gestation baby and her saturations were dropping'.

Dr Jayaram said he had not investigated the matter at the time 'because the priority was stabilising K'.

But he added: 'What I found suggested this was an issue with the tube. There was no reason to think it was tube blockage. The suddenness of the deterioration would go against tube blockage'.

At the retrial on a charge of attempted murder Letby (pictured) has pleaded not guilty

On the issue of whether Baby K's own movement might have displaced the tube, he said: 'It's a possibility. I have to say I've never seen it in a baby of this gestation. It would take quite a lot of movement for a baby to dislodge the tube'.

The diameter of the tube would have had no bearing on the issue, and he did not consider a leak mentioned in medical notes was at all significant.

He said: 'We know that in spite of the leak, she was ventilating well'.
Nigel Farage is on the cusp of becoming an MP at the eighth attempt after a new poll gave the Reform leader a huge lead in the constituency he is contesting.

Mr Farage is on course to win 42 per cent of the vote in Clacton, with a swing away from the Tories that pollsters Survation said was 'unprecedented in modern electoral history'.

He outstrips Giles Watling (27 per cent), the current Tory incumbent, and Labour (24 per cent) in a poll commissioned by his ally, the former Ukip donor Arron Banks.

The figures, if close to what plays out on July 4, will send shivers down the spine of the Tories and boost Mr Farage's bid to be a major player in the next Parliament.

It echoes a previous survey by Ipsos which suggested Mr Farage could win 53 per cent of the vote, with the Tories a distant third on 17 per cent.

But it is not all good news for Reform. Separate polls by YouGov show that 55 per cent of voters believe Mr Farage would make a bad prime minister.

And in head-to-head contests to determine who voters think would make a better PM, he loses to all other main party leaders, including Lib Dem boss Ed Davey.

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Mr Farage is on course to win 42 per cent of the vote in Clacton, with a swing away from the Tories that pollsters Survation said was 'unprecedented in modern electoral history'.

It came as Rishi Sunak hit back at billionaires abandoning the Tories by saying they 'can afford Labour's tax rises' and refused to rule out working with Nigel Farage after the election.

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Half of 2019 Conservative voters told Survation they will vote for the Reform Party leader, versus just 38 per cent who will stay loyal and vote for Mr Watling.

One in ten former Tory voters will vote for the Labour candidate Jovan Owusu-Nepaul, while Mr Farage is also attracting support from 10 per cent of 2019 Labour voters.

It came as Rishi Sunak hit back at billionaires abandoning the Tories by saying they 'can afford Labour's tax rises' and refused to rule out working with Nigel Farage after the election.

In a bruising LBC radio phone-in, the Prime Minister was accused by callers of being a 'poundshop Nigel Farage' over his behaviour towards the trans community, and being too rich to relate to food bank users.

He was asked about John Caudwell, Phones4U founder and a former major Tory donor, and Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe throwing their weight behind Sir Keir Starmer's party.

Mr Sunak replied: 'They're two of Britain's richest men. They can probably afford Labour's tax rises.'

The Conservatives are seeking to use tax as a key dividing issue and are stepping up attacks on Labour's plans in a desperate bid to shift their stubborn double-digit poll deficit.

Sir Keir Starmer criticised Mr Sunak for 'talking nonsense', telling reporters during a campaign visit to Wiltshire that the Prime Minister 'should stop lecturing anybody else about the economy'.

He said Mr Caudwell's change in support, 'because he thinks we're the party of growth and wealth creation', is a 'serious' move.
Tributes have been paid to a father and his pregnant daughter after they died in a horror road crash.

Stephen Tooth, 40, was driving his daughter Emily-May, 18, when his Suzuki was involved in a collision with a Subaru.

Emergency services were called to the incident, on the A823 in Perthshire, but the pair were pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Subaru, a 40-year-old woman, was arrested in connection with a road traffic offence.

Police Scotland have said their investigations are ongoing.

Mr Tooths devastated parents Margaret and David Tooth, from Larbert in Stirlingshire, have spoken of their loss following the tragedy.

Stephen Tooth and his daughter, Emily-May

They told The Courier: We are all in a state of shock. It has brought all the families together and knowing that our son and granddaughter are beyond pain and suffering is our focus.

We are also proud of the impression their lives have made, and privileged that we had them with us.

Mr Tooth made a career in audio-visual production, first with Tapestry AV and then with firm Catalyst based in Bridge of Earn, and was hugely popular with colleagues.

Emily-May was a photography student at Forth Valley College. She was pregnant but her unborn child was lost in the crash.

Mr Tooths family told the newspaper he was driving his daughter from Gilmerton to Tullibody and had been planning to go on to a work commitment in Manchester.

His parents are being supported by his sisters.

Mr Tooths partner, Karen Johnston, have also paid tribute to him on social media.

She said: Sleep tight my boy. Keep your baby girl safe up there.

We love you and will miss you more than words can ever describe. I love you. Always and forever.

Colleagues Alex and Lynsey Mclaren, of Tapestry AV, told of their devastation at the deaths.

Ms Mclaren told the newspaper: Stephen started with us back in May 2003 as a trainee AV technician and as an apprentice he learned all his trade working closely with his colleagues.

Stephen quickly became an all-rounder and he was the hardest worker.

His can-do attitude meant he was approachable and everyone wanted Stevie involved in their projects.

He could turn his hands to anything from in-house carpentry on bespoke stage sets to power distribution, audio, lighting and video systems.

Stephen formed solid friendships with lots of colleagues.

Stephen was the go-to guy for all our international events, everyone wanted him on their events team. We will deeply miss him.

The crash happened on the A823, near the junction with the A822 at Muthill, on June 14 at around 9.30am.

Sergeant Steve Livesey, from the Tayside Road Policing Unit, said thoughts were with the family and friends of the deceased at this tragic time.

The police officer said: We are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances and would appeal for anyone who witnessed the crash or has any dashcam footage from the area to please come forward.

We are particularly keen to speak with anyone who believes they may have seen the silver Sazuki travelling along the road prior to the crash itself'.
The bungling Post Office has published the names and home addresses of the postmasters it persecuted during the Horizon scandal.

In what appears to be a staggering data breach, 'cavalier' workers printed their private details on its website for anyone to see, the Mail can reveal.

Having already ruined many lives by falsely accusing them of stealing, the Post Office's latest betrayal has been branded an insult to injury  and furious victims alerted by the Mail are vowing to 'make them pay'.

On the very day its IT specialists are being grilled at the Horizon inquiry, the alleged data breach marks yet another breathtaking IT failure for the organisation. It published on its corporate website a dossier of 555 wronged postmasters who were involved in suing the Post Office in 2019 - showing their full names and home addresses including postcode, making it easy for anyone to find them. Many are poised to receive significant sums of money in compensation for Britain's biggest ever miscarriage of justice, and told of their anger at their home addresses being exposed.

Humiliatingly, the document containing the details is entitled 'Confidential Settlement Deed' and spells out in black and white that its contents are private. It is even signed by the Post Office's own senior lawyer  and yet it has been posted onto its website in full.

After the Mail informed the Post Office this afternoon, it changed its website to remove the offending list. But former postmasters are 'incandescent'. And the embattled Post Office now potentially faces another investigation, this time by the Information Commissioner who takes breaches of personal data extremely seriously.

This is a redacted version of the document containing personal details which was published in full

Sir Alan Bates has led the quest for justice

Wendy Buffrey, 64, who ran a branch in Cheltenham

Last year the commissioner levied a 1million fine on the Ministry of Defence for losing the data of 245 people.

The 555 former postmasters whose home addresses have been published were among the group involved in bringing High Court class litigation against the Post Office in 2019. Hundreds of innocents were bankrupted, jailed or driven to suicide after being wrongly accused of plundering their own tills between 1999 and 2015, when money appearing to be 'missing' from their branch accounts was really the result of glitches in the company's Horizon computer system.

The list includes those who brought the scandal to life in ITV's acclaimed four-part drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office which triggered national outrage at the way the former pillars of their communities were tormented.

Wendy Buffrey, 64,who ran a branch in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, with her husband Doug until their malfunctioning Horizon terminal invented a 36,000 shortfall and she was prosecuted as a thief, said: 'I'm incandescent. I'm just so angry. We all thought they couldn't do any more to us than they've already done.

'They need to pay for this. It's yet another thing they've done that could potentially destroy one of our lives. They just don't stop, do they?

'People out there in the outside world know that we're all going to get compensation payments - and all our home details are out there? It's absolutely horrendous.'

Nichola Arch, 53, falsely accused of theft at her Chalford Hill post office in Gloucestershire, said: 'They seem to be completely incompetent. Our personal information is out there for anybody, and that is absolutely disgusting. To say it's adding insult to injury is the understatement of the year.

Nichola Arch, 53, was falsely accused of theft at her Chalford Hill post office

'People know that, due to the extent of this scandal, people are going to get compensation. Now if they've got our names and addresses, people know exactly where that money is, and that can bring out all sorts of anxiety to victims because they'll be thinking, 'God is somebody going to break in?' It's horrific.'

Deirdre Connolly, 54, who ran the post office in Killeter, Northern Ireland, with her husband Darius until they were falsely accused of stealing  and was even asked if they had 'taken the money for paramilitaries' - said: 'I can't believe it. My home address is on that website? My home, my family - what the f***?'

Her husband, 53, claimed: 'It's absolute incompetence. The fact that they can't keep people's names and addresses private tells you all you need to know about how they run their computer system.'

Ron Warmington, the forensic investigator whose firm Second Sight was hired to probe the faulty Horizon system in 2013, said: 'As if we needed to see another example of Post Office incompetence! This is an extraordinary breach of the confidentiality undertakings with which Post Office so heavy handedly insisted that we must all - and for all time - comply. It seems that Post Office deploys far greater firepower in protecting its own data than it does in protecting data that names its victims.'

Lord Arbuthnot, the peer who has championed the postmasters for years, told the Mail: 'I long ago stopped expecting much, if anything, from the Post Office, but for them to publicise the personal details of the group litigation claimants is incompetent.

'Amongst so many other criminal offences committed by the Post Office, this alleged data breach is yet a further intrusion into the privacy of sub-postmasters and their ability to put the matter behind them. And it answers the question as to whether the Post Office has learnt and improved: it hasn't.'

The names and home addresses are listed in a 47-page legal agreement, signed on 10 December 2019, which brought the High Court class action to a settlement mid-way through the trial. The Post Office apparently intended to publish on its website a 'redacted' version of the legal agreement, with personal details covered by a censor's black ink. But instead, the document was posted with everyone's personal details on full display.

Raoul Lumb, a partner at law firm SMB who specialises in data protection, said it appeared 'a remarkable breach' of the UK's data protection laws known as GDPR and showed 'a cavalier disregard for the rights of sub-postmasters'.

He said: 'The document, which is clearly marked as confidential, exposes the names and addresses of every sub-postmaster who was a claimant in the Alan Bates and others v Post Office litigation.

'It is particularly embarrassing for the Post Office because clause 12 of the document is a clause which explicitly obliges all the parties to 'keep [it] confidential'. Given that, it's difficult to see any justification for the Post Office to have made it public in a completely unredacted form.'

He said the Post Office has a duty to report the breach to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), and added: 'The leaking of it will no doubt cause further distress to sub-postmasters who have already suffered enough. You would expect the ICO to take an extremely dim view of the breach given the clear expectation of confidentiality and the vulnerability of the data subjects named in it. It would not surprise me if the commissioner levied a fine to penalise the Post Office for this seemingly very basic failure to manage its data securely.'

The Post Office said: 'The document in question has been removed from our website. We are investigating as an urgent priority how it came to be published. We are in the process of notifying the Information Commissioner's Office of the incident, in line with our regulatory requirements.'

The ICO said: 'We have not received a data breach report on this matter. Organisations must notify the ICO within 72 hours.'
Three Pro-Gaza protesters have been found guilty of public order offences after a demonstration outside of Sir Keir Starmer's house.

Leonorah Ward, 21, Zosia Lewis, 23, and Daniel Formentin, 24, were found guilty with offences under Section 42 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 and breaching court bail at Westminster Magistrates' Court.

The activists hung a banner outside the Labour leader's London house that read: 'Starmer stop the killing', surrounded by red hand prints, while rows of children's shoes were laid in front of the door on April 9.

The trio, who denied the charges, were representing the group Youth Demand, which describes itself as a 'new youth resistance campaign fighting for an end to genocide'.

The protestors were handed a six week prison sentence suspended for 12 months. They were also prohibited from entering the London postal district of NW5 for any reason at all.

The trio were also ordered to pay 200 towards prosecution costs and a victim surcharge of 154 each.

District Judge Michael Snow told the protestors their actions were 'corrosive to democracy'. He said: 'I find this to be a high culpability case, there was clear planning and its a group action.'

Zosia Lewis, Daniel Formentin and Leonorah Ward pictured outside Westminster Magistrates Court in London

Sir Keir Starmer and wife Victoria (pictured in Liverpool last year) live in London

Four lines of very small children's shoes - symbolising the children killed in Gaza - were laid out in front of their house

He added: 'I find this to be a greater harm case because this was targeted at the home of Sir Keir Starmer and his family, and caused significant distress to Ms Starmer.

'We are living in fragile times with a number of potential attacks upon our democracy, it is difficult according to press reports to persuade people to come forward to perform their public duty acting as politicians because of the various remarks that are put about them on social media and because of genuine fears they have for the safety of themselves and their families.

'When you look at the murder of conservative MP Sir David Amess and the murder of Jo Cox, one can fully understand why politicians are so fearful of the institution in which they find themselves.

'Discouragement of individuals or people going into politics because of trolling is corrosive to our democracy overall.

'I'm obligated to take a severe line with anybody who attacks our democracy by going directly to the home address of a politician or senior politician in an attempt to carry out a protest.

'The sentence I impose is designed not just to deter you but to deter others as well.

'Anybody who appears in front of me for going to the home address of a politician and refusing to leave when required to do so can expect to receive a prison sentence'.

The court was shown footage shared on social media of the demonstration, which included clips of the three defendants speaking, and police body-worn footage of the protesters being arrested by officers outside the home.

Giving evidence at the trial, Sir Keir's wife Victoria said she felt 'a bit sick' when she encountered the trio at her home, and drove around the corner in her car.

Lady Starmer had just returned from a shopping trip with her son when they spotted the protesters, the court heard.

She drove around the corner before contacting Sir Keir's office because she 'didn't want to stop and be obvious', she told the court.

'I felt apprehensive and uncomfortable,' she added.

Asked by Andrew Morris, defending, if she knew it was a 'peaceful protest', Lady Starmer said: 'It would look like a peaceful protest if it hadn't been outside my home.'

Put to her by Laura O'Brien, representing Ward, that she did not want the added publicity from the demonstration, she said: 'That was absolutely not in my mind.'

Left to right: Leonorah Ward, 21, from Leeds, Daniel Formentin, 24, from Leeds and Zosia Lewis, 23, from Newcastle upon Tyne, outside Westminster Magistrates' Court

Leonorah Ward arriving at Westminster Magistrates' Court, central London, where she along with Daniel Formentin and Zosia Lewis were found guilty of offences under section 42 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001

Daniel Formentin pictured leaving Westminster Magistrates' Court in central London

Formentin, representing himself, told the court: 'I firmly believe that Keir Starmer is not accurately representing the country.

'There is an overwhelming sense that young people in this country do want a ceasefire in Palestine.'

Formentin said the protesters took 'as many steps as we could to mitigate any threat', and had no plans to confront anyone.

Put to him by Mr Hallam that they still would have been intimidating and threatening, Formentin said: 'No.'

Put to them that they never contemplated how someone living in the house might find the protest distressing, he said: 'I think it could be seen as distressing.'

Metropolitan Police Sergeant Mark Upsdale, who arrived at the scene at around 2pm and made the order for the arrests, also gave evidence at the trial.

Asked by prosecutor Jacob Hallam KC if the protesters were making their intentions known to the officers, he said: 'They said there was a plan but 'we are not willing to tell you', or something to that effect.'

Sgt Upsdale said holding the protest outside somebody's house, instead of outside the House of Commons or Sir Keir's offices, was 'inappropriate'.

He added: 'I did not know if they were going to be there 10 minutes or a day.'

Section 42 powers cover the harassment of a person at their home address if an officer suspects it is causing alarm or distress to the occupant.

Youth Demand describes itself as a 'new youth resistance campaign fighting for an end to genocide'.

Children's shoes have been used at a number of pro-Palestine demonstrations to signify the children killed in Gaza.

The same group sprayed Labour HQ with red paint, and later claimed that 11 people had been arrested in relation to that incident.
If Donald Trump wins reelection he should restart nuclear testing after a 30-year-pause, decouple the economy entirely from China and deploy the entire U.S. Marine Corps to the Pacific to counter the threat from Beijing.

That is the advice of his last national security adviser, Robert O'Brien, who lays out a possible blueprint for a second Trump term in a 5000-word essay.

If you want peace, prepare for war, is the theme of his message, particularly when it comes to heading off China, which has doubled the size of its nuclear stockpile since 2020.

'The United States has to maintain technical and numerical superiority to the combined Chinese and Russian nuclear stockpiles,' he writes for Foreign Affairs.

'To do so, Washington must test new nuclear weapons for reliability and safety in the real world for the first time since 1992not just by using computer models.'

Donald Trump's former national security adviser says he should resume U.S. nuclear testing if he returns to the White House. Robert O'Brien laid out the idea in an essay for Foreign Affairs

He also says the US should resume production of uranium-235 and plutonium-239, the raw materials for weapons, 'if China and Russia continue to refuse to engage in good-faith arms control talks.'

O'Brien says he remains in contact with his former boss and he is widely expected to return as a senior official in a new administration.

As a result, his manifesto is being passed around Washington's defense and national security establishment as a chance to glean clues about what Trump might do in a second term.

Much of its focus is on China. The word 'China' appears 37 times and 'Beijing' 12 times.

'As China seeks to undermine American economic and military strength, Washington should return the favorjust as it did during the Cold War, when it worked to weaken the Soviet economy,' he writes.

His recommendation is to completely decouple the U.S. from the Chinese economy.

And he says the U.S. military should look away from the Middle East, and focus on the Indo-Pacific region, increasing the size of its navy from fewer than 300 vessels to 355 (a target from Trump's time in office), as well as refurbishing ships to supply to the Philippines.

'The navy should also move one of its aircraft carriers from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and the Pentagon should consider deploying the entire Marine Corps to the Pacific, relieving it in particular of missions in the Middle East and North Africa,' he writes.

O'Brien was installed as national security in 2019 and stayed at the White House until Trump left office in January 2021. He says he remains in touch with his former boss

A recent test of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile

Xi Xinping has increased his nation's nuclear stockpile from 410 to 500 in a single year (File image)

'U.S. bases in the Pacific often lack adequate missile defenses and fighter jet protectiona scandalous deficiency that the Defense Department should fix by quickly shifting resources from elsewhere.'

Congress should also help strengthen the armed forces of Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam by offering the kinds of support, loans and weapons transfers 'that the United States has long offered Israel.'

For all the fire and fury, there are some notable policy absences that may reassure Trump critics.

There is no mention of withdrawing from NATO, a habitual Trump threat.

And O'Brien, who set up a consulting firm after leaving the White House, offers a hawkish stance on Ukraine and facing down Russian President Vladimir Putin, while underlining the former president's desire for a negotiated settlement.

Trump and O'Brien outside the White House at St. John's Episcopal Church in 2020, flanked by U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr and Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany

A Titan II nuclear ICMB in a silo at the Titan Missile Museum in Green Valley, Arizona

'Washington should make sure that its European allies understand that the continued American defense of Europe is contingent on Europe doing its partincluding in Ukraine,' writes O'Brien.

'If Europe wants to show that it is serious about defending Ukraine, it should admit the country to the European Union immediately, waiving the usual bureaucratic accession protocol.

'Such a move would send a strong message to Putin that the West will not cede Ukraine to Moscow. It would also give hope to the Ukrainian people that better days lie ahead.'

The Trump campaign cautioned against interpreting the essay as a statement of official policy.

'Let us be very specific here: unless a message is coming directly from President Trump or an authorized member of his campaign team, no aspect of future presidential staffing or policy announcements should be deemed official,' said top advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita, in a statement to Bloomberg News.
Details of missing British teenager Jay Slater's trek across the mountains in Tenerife to get back to his hotel have been revealed as questions grow over what has happened to him.

Jay, 19, was last heard from on Monday morning when he told friends he planned to walk back to his accommodation after missing a bus, a journey which would take more than 10 hours on foot.

A new map has revealed the apprentice bricklayer's most recent known movements - with his phone showing his last location as the mountainous Rural Teno Park, which is a remote area in the northwest of Tenerife.

Jay had been attending a three day NRG festival which ended on Sunday, 16 June in Papagayo beach club in South Tenerife.

A friend of the teenager - who had gone to the festival with him - said Jay had gone to stay with people he met after a night out.

The friend, Lucy Mae, received a phone call from Jay at around 8am on Monday morning saying he'd missed his bus and was trying to walk back but was lost, needed a drink and only had 1% battery on his phone. The phone call then cut off.

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, travelled to the Canary Islands for a musical festival with his friend Lucy and another friend last week

Jay (right) is pictured right alongside his mother Debbie and brother Zak (left) who flew out to Tenerife after his disappearance

The teenager's phone died at around 8:50am, with his last known location registered in the remote Rural de Teno park, more than ten miles from the popular resort Guia de Isora.

Jay was reported missing at around 9am the same morning and police launched a mountain rescue.

His worried family have flown out to the Canary Island to lead a desperate search for their young relative.

Jay's mother Debbie Duncan has revealed her fears her son was 'taken against his will' as the search for him continues.

Mountain rescue crews and sniffer dogs had been searching the mountainous area of north-west Tenerife for the 19-year-old up until this afternoon.

But suddenly police focus shifted to the tourist hotspots of Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas in south Tenerife, after a false sighting of him getting out of a taxi.

It later emerged the report was false and police, having wasted precious time in the blistering 27C heat, were forced to move attention back to their original site.

Jay's final Snapchat shows the teenager laughing and smiling at around 8.35pm on the night before he went missing

Jay was reported missing on Sunday morning by friend Lucy Mae (pictured)

Jay's friend Lucy reported Jay missing to police and launched search efforts on Monday morning

Jay is seen in this image shared to his friend Lucy's social media days before he disappeared

Jay's last sighting was on Sunday night at the NRG music festival. The teenager is believed to have got into a car with two men in the early hours of Monday and ended up at their accommodation in a national park about 40 minutes drive away.

His distraught mother Debbie said: 'It's just traumatic and it doesn't feel real. It's just awful, it's horrendous.

'I think he's been taken against his will with what's been said, but it's in the hands of the police.'

'He's just a great person who everyone wanted to be with. He's good looking, he's a popular boy.'

Earlier, a spokesman for the Civil Guard confirmed 'the search operation has moved to the south of the island' in Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas.

While a spokesman did not offer any more detail, it was added: 'It's obviously down to information that's been received as the investigation has progressed.

'As things stand at the moment the search in the mountainous area near Masca in the north has been halted.'

But it was later ruled out as a false sighting by a well-meaning member of the public. Jay's mother Ms Duncan told MailOnline: 'It was a false alarm but with good intention.

'Someone thought they had seen him get into a car with two other guys but it was wrong.

'The search is still focusing on the north where he was last seen. We still don't have any updates and need people to keep looking.'
UN meeting highlights need for sustainable lunar activities

Xinhua) 10:51, June 19, 2024

Aarti Holla-Maini, director of the UN's Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), speaks at the UN Conference on Sustainable Lunar Activities in Vienna, Austria, on June 18, 2024. The United Nations' first-ever meeting on sustainable lunar activities was held here on Tuesday, attended by heads of space agencies from around the world, astronauts, scholars and industry representatives. (Xinhua/He Canling)

VIENNA, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations' (UN)first-ever meeting on sustainable lunar activities was held here on Tuesday, attended by heads of space agencies from around the world, astronauts, scholars and industry representatives.

With more lunar missions on the horizon in the next decade, the UN's Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) stressed the importance of sustainability in these missions at the first United Nations Conference on Sustainable Lunar Activities.

Delegates discussed common approaches, priorities, and expectations for the peaceful, sustainable, and cooperative exploration of the moon.

In particular, the conference brought together the state signatories to the International Lunar Research Station, a China-initiated scientific experiment program developed by multiple countries and organizations, and the NASA-led Artemis Accords.

"I believe that each and every one of us wants to preserve our planet's largest, natural satellite," UNOOSA director Aarti Holla-Maini told the conference. "There is a growing international consensus on the need for consultation and coordination on lunar exploration, rather than a 'space race' or division of space policy."

Holla-Maini called for more cooperation and information exchange among stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and safety of lunar activities.

The UN space chief added that the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, which will convene its 67th session in Vienna from June 19 to 28, will consider future actions such as the possible establishment of an Action Team on Lunar Activities Consultations.

At the conference, representatives from the China National Space Administration showcased the latest progress of the country's lunar exploration program, and called for international cooperation in the field to be enhanced.

Delegates attend the UN Conference on Sustainable Lunar Activities in Vienna, Austria, on June 18, 2024. The United Nations' first-ever meeting on sustainable lunar activities was held here on Tuesday, attended by heads of space agencies from around the world, astronauts, scholars and industry representatives. (Xinhua/He Canling)

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Comedian Josh Meyers portrays Gov. Gavin Newsom during a sketch on Jimmy Kimmel Live. ABC

Gov. Gavin Newsoms national profile was already going to swell this summer as a top surrogate for President Joe Biden. But Newsom has something that most other surrogates or top officeholders not named Biden or Donald Trump can boast: Hes got somebody regularly doing an impression of him on national TV.

It will raise Newsoms pop culture profile in ways that his 2013 book, Citizenville, or his stint hosting Current TVs The Gavin Newsom Show never quite did. Google them, kids.

The good news for Newsom is that the impression is largely complimentary, even though longtime Newsom watchers will say its not quite spot on. Unlike the governor, actor and comedian Josh Meyers never drops the word ideate, overuses the phrase quite literally or extols the virtues of the iterative process when hes portraying Newsom in bits on ABCs Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Late Night With Seth Meyers, the NBC show hosted by his older brother.

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Instead, Meyers makes Newsom sound more like a surfer bro than the Silicon Valley whiteboard that he can resemble in real life.

Nevertheless, the bits can be pretty damn funny. And with his hair slicked into a Newsom coiffure and his voice a bit scratchy, Meyers inspires a double take. Bonus: The skits are as much a send-up of California culture as they are of its leader.

Whats up guys! Its your lovin Govin, Meyers as Newsom said on a recent Kimmel show bit, in which hes at a SoCal beach in the standard-issue Newsom uniform of a dark blue suit and white shirt to pitch a fictional Proposition 83. The measure would make a freakin butt-ton of investments in under-funded priorities.

California already leads the nation in producing solar power, but what about lunar power? Meyers as Newsom suggests, offering a nod to the governors sometimes too-far-ahead-of-the-curve ideas.

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It would also incentivize the best and brightest to work in Silicon Valley by making vaping mandatory in offices, hospitals and Ferrari dealerships. Meyers as Newsom then takes a hit off a vape. When somebody nearby asks for some, he says, Sure. But I only vape Merlot.

The satire nails several Newsomisms. The futuristic ideas. The affinity with Silicon Valley. And the flashes of the patrician good life.

He is sort of such a central casting politician, Meyers told me. Hes slick and hes handsome, and there is so much in him for his supporters to love and his detractors to hate.

Comedian Josh Meyers portrays Gov. Gavin Newsom during a sketch on Jimmy Kimmel Live. ABC

Meyers, who is 48 and has lived in California for 20 years, said he likes Newsom. But I have friends who definitely dont like Newsom, and theyll text me and say, Oh, keep ripping him. And then I have friends that like him, and they say, We really enjoyed it. So I like that, he said.

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Meyers friends had been urging him to create a Newsom impression for years since the two men share a resemblance. During the pandemic, Meyers set up a green screen in his garage and recorded a parody of one of Newsoms daily COVID-19 news conferences. He was going to post it online but said hes not a fan of social media. So he sent it to his brother, who put it on the air.

Meyers also had worked up an impression of Jared Kushner, Trumps son-in-law and former White House adviser, for his brothers show. But Seth said, I would prefer if you do people that you like rather than people that you dont like, which I think was a really good note, although I do think I do a decent Kushner.

Meyers deemphasizes Newsoms wonky language because if it were just that, I think it would be less fun. Instead, Meyers said he plays him as a frat guy and an ally with a dash of Sean Penns iconic stoner surfer character Jeff Spicoli from the 1982 film Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

Theres a bit of just stereotypical Cali, which I think the rest of the country resonates with pretty strongly, and it just makes him fun because he is so smart and he is so well-read and hes so good off the cuff, Meyers said.

Meyers isnt blind to Newsoms foibles.

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After Newsoms infamous dinner at the French Laundry during the pandemic, Meyers dropped a bit where Newsom says at a news conference that he had a lot of tough decisions to make at the bougie Napa Valley restaurant, like whether to order the Monterey Bay abalone gratin or the Devils Gulch rabbit. Just kidding, its a prix fixe menu, so you get it all.

Meyers told me understands why the dinner infuriated people who were trying to comply with COVID restrictions but appreciated that Newsom apologized in real life. I dont mind a full-throated apology from a politician who screwed up, Meyers said. I actually appreciate it.

In real life, Newsom is far more complex than his media caricature. He may have led the 2016 effort to legalize cannabis in California, but he said he has never smoked marijuana because of a traumatic experience he had while seeing his foster brother smoke weed.

That incident provides a window into Newsoms bifurcated upbringing. He was raised by his working-class mother, Tessa, who had become pregnant at 19, dropped out of Chico State University and divorced her husband when Newsom was 2. They took in foster kids to make ends meet. Meanwhile, his dad, Bill, served as a lawyer and financial adviser to the wealthy Getty family, giving Newsom periodic access to the good life and later startup business funding.

Its impossible to encompass all of that in a two-minute bit, of course. Plus, Meyers impression is still in its relatively early stages.

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Meyers, a registered Democrat, plans to ramp up his Newsom impressions in the coming months. He closely follows politics and has knocked on doors in past elections. He thinks his impression might enable him to channel some of his energy in a more productive way.

And what does Newsom think of the impression?

The governor has enjoyed the portrayal, Izzy Gardon, the governors director of communications, told me. Joshs jokes and hair are only improving.

Newsom was more effusive when Seth Meyers asked him about it during an appearance on his show a couple of months back.

Relaxed and smiling, Newsom called the impression, next level  but I dont want to admit that. He added that when his 14-year-old saw it, she said, Dad, he is so much cooler than you.

A younger, more thin-skinned Newsom might not have taken the satire that well. But at 56, Newsom is mature enough to enjoy it without being offended.
The blast occurred at Kirkland Walk, Middlesbrough, at around 12.40pm today

A man who was pulled from the rubble of his house following an explosion is continuing to fight for his life in hospital.

The 57-year-old was rescued by a passing roofer after a suspected gas explosion left him with 'severe burns' and destroyed his property in Kirkland Walk, Middlesbrough, on Tuesday afternoon.

Doorbell footage of the blast was posted onto social media and showed a sudden burst of flames appear from the home, followed by thick plumes of smoke which covered the local area.

Cleveland Police said the explosion scene remained cordoned off because of fears about the dangers posed by structural damage to the building.

Residents say the victim's clothes were in rags as brave local man Kayfee Hameed, 45, carried him on his back away from the danger and placed him on the grass outside.

Doorbell footage of the blast was posted onto social media and showed a sudden burst of flames appear from the home

A suspected gas explosion destroyed a house in scenes of 'absolute carnage' on Tuesday

An air ambulance is on scene alongside gas workers

Michael Clark, who lives with his wife in Kirkland Walk, said on Tuesday: 'The man was screaming in the rubble.

'The man looked terrible when they brought him out. All his clothes were stuck to him and they looked like rags.

'His hair was all burned, everything, from top to bottom.'

Mr Hameed told The Mirror: 'I ran inside and I said is "anybody there?" The man was laid down, there were all rocks on his leg. He was just shocked.

'I told him to come closer because the fire was coming down. I put him on my back and got him out. I put him on the grass. All his skin came off like a carrier bag.'

It's not the first time Mr Hameed has helped out in a crisis, as he bravely intervened and helped armed police in Middlesbrough after a fight between men wielding weapons spilled into the grounds of Berwick Hills Primary School in 2021.

After being taken to safety by Mr Hameed, the man was taken to Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle, via an air ambulance.

Two ambulance crews, a rapid response paramedic, a doctor, four Hazardous Area Response Teams and the air ambulance were sent to the scene.

The Great North Air Ambulance Service said: 'Our team activated at 12.46pm to an incident in Middlesbrough.

'We had two doctors and two paramedics respond to the scene and they worked alongside the North East Ambulance Service to assess and treat a patient.

'The patient is being airlifted to hospital.'

A general view of the scene of the suspected gas explosion at the property near Frampton Green

The property is in ruins after the suspected gas explosion in Middlesbrough

Reports suggested a house had been badly damaged in an explosion

Cleveland Fire Brigade were asked people to stay away from the scene of the incident in Kirkland Walk, Middlesbrough,

Kayfee Hameed bravely intervened to drag the victim out of the house

A general view of the scene of a suspected gas explosion at a property near Frampton Green in Middlesbrough

Pictures from the scene show one semi-detached property has been completely destroyed

Firefighters remain at the scene and the area has been cordoned off to the public

Police say they are working with Middlesbrough Council, Cleveland Fire Brigade, Northern Power Grid and others to establish what happened and to make sure residents affected by the incident receive support.

A force spokesperson said: 'The 57-year-old man who was seriously injured in the incident is in hospital in a critical condition.'

The blast was described by residents as 'absolute carnage'.

Pictures from the scene show one semi-detached property has been completely destroyed in the incident.

Sean Joseph, who lives at the back of the property, said: 'I work from home and just heard a huge explosion. I actually thought it was a plane crashing'.

Luke Myler, a councillor in the area, posted on X: 'Very concerned by news emerging from Park End.

'Emergency services are responding now. I would urge people not to speculate until details are confirmed - I will keep residents updated as and when I can, and my team is here to help connect anyone affected with the relevant services.'
Cult fried chicken chain Morley's immortalised in a song by rapper Stormzy has won a High Court battle with a 'copycat' competitor.

The Morley's fast-food chain has reached legendary status after its founding 40 years ago, having been championed by the south London rap star and other musicians.

The family-run chicken joint was referred to in Stormzy's 2015 track 'Wicked Skengman Part 4', while his 2017 video for 'Big for your Boots' was filmed inside one of its branches.

The chain also worked with writer and performer Corey Bovell for his one-man theatre show Chicken Burger N Chips, while another grime star, Krept, released a song entitled 'Morley's Freestyle' and used a prop of a Morley's store front on stage during a gig at the O2 Arena in 2019.

But the chain's iconic branding ended up at the centre of a very different stage over claims that a competitor had wrongly used signage too similar to the distinctive red and white, 'MMM... it tastes better', trade mark used by Morley's.

And it tasted victory last week when Judge Melissa Clarke ruled in favour of Morley's, holding that competitor Metro's '...It's the real taste' sign 'infringed the Morley's red and white mark'.

The Morley's fast food chain has reached legendary status after its founding 40 years ago, having been championed by the south London rap star and other musicians

Judge Clarke noted: 'In relation to music, he points to the British rap artist Stormzy, who referred to Morley's in the track "Wicked Skengman Part 4" of May 2015, and his music video for "Big for your Boots" which was filmed inside a Morley's in about February 2017'

In his evidence to the High Court, Morley's boss Shan Selvendran - son of founder Kannalingham Selvendran - said the 'iconic' chain was founded in 1985 and 'inspired by KFC.'

It began in the heart of south London's Sri Lankan community with a vision that its food should be 'for everyone and accessible to all', using the distinctive red and white trademark and 'Triple M' brand from day one.

By the time of his father's death, Shan Selvendran had built up around 40 Morley's shops, the court heard, with his mum at one point temporarily stepping in to take over the business until Mr Selvendran graduated and became chief executive in 2009.

The Morley's brand was now 'synonymous with fried chicken for everyone in south London', said Mr Selvendran, adding: 'everyone recognised the name of the famous Morley's burger and it was iconic'.

The chain currently has around 100 outlets and became an established part of the hip urban landscape when cutting edge musicians increasingly referenced the food shops in their works.

Judge Clarke noted: 'In relation to music, he points to the British rap artist Stormzy, who referred to Morley's in the track "Wicked Skengman Part 4" of May 2015, and his music video for "Big for your Boots" which was filmed inside a Morley's in about February 2017.

'Another artist, Krept, wrote a song called "Morley's Freestyle" in around 2019, shot the music video for the track outside a Morley's store, and used a full-sized prop of the Morley's store frontage on stage during his concert at the O2 Arena in 2019.

'His evidence is that he spoke to Stormzy in November 2023, who spoke about his childhood memories of Morley's for over an hour, growing up during the 2000s.'

But the chain's iconic branding ended up at the centre of a very different stage over claims that a competitor had wrongly used signage too similar to the distinctive red and white, 'MMM... it tastes better', trade mark used by Morley's

And it tasted victory last week when Judge Melissa Clarke ruled in favour of Morley's, holding that competitor Metro's '...It's the real taste' sign 'infringed the Morley's red and white mark'

Giving evidence, Mr Selvendran told the court: 'He used the word 'heritage' and I always hear that word from people when talking about Morley's.

'Although I didn't appreciate it when I was younger, I now realised how important Morley's is (and was) to a huge number of people...people feel a connection with Morley's and view the brand as part of their life and heritage..'

He said Morley's had faced a 'constant battle with imitators', first locking horns with the boss of franchise Metro's, Kunalingham Kunatheeswaran, 14 years ago, when he learned that the latter had planned to use the name 'Mowley's' for the launch of a new food outlet.

Sketching out Morley's case, Judge Clarke explained: 'The (company) says that this is the latest episode in persistent copycat behaviour by Mr Kunatheeswaran since around 2010, during which time he has imitated and sought to ride on the coat-tails of the claimant's branding, in various shifting forms.'

Morley's took action against Mr Kunatheeswaran over use of signs on store fronts which it claimed were too similar to those trademarked by Morley's.

Ruling against Mr Kunatheeswaran, Judge Clarke said his chain strayed beyond the terms of a previous 2018 settlement deal restricting their signage to a blue bordered red banner rather than Morley's distinctive crimson red banner.

'Mr Kunatheeswaran and one of his franchisees also breached Morley's trademark by using the company's distinctive 'Triple M' slogan 'MMM' on shop windows and notice boards,' she said.

'The franchise defendants and Mr Kunatheeswaran have infringed the Morley's red and white mark.

'(He) is jointly and severally liable with the franchise defendants for their infringement of the Morley's red and white mark.

'The claimant is entitled to injunctive relief against those defendants who are still using the signs.'

A further hearing will take place at a later date to decide the exact details of the injunction.
READ MORE: Kamala Harris parties with the Queer Eye cast

Vice President Kamala Harris received critical backlash after she welcomed founders and cast members of the show 'Queer Eye' to the White House.

A video of TV star Jonathan Van Ness went viral on Tuesday as he stepped up to the White House podium during the visit and hosted a mock press briefing.

'JVN is it true that is all your natural hair?' one cast member asked Van Ness, as he stood at the briefing room podium.

'Yes I can confirm that this is not a wig, thank you so much for asking, no extensions,' Van Ness replied, as the star tossed his silky long straight hair.

Van Ness confirmed he used JVN hair products to keep it that way.

Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness at the White House press briefing room

Van Ness, who identifies as non-binary, created a line of JVN hair products after receiving wild success on the show.

Van Ness also spoke about which cast member of the original 'Fab Five' show cast was his favorite and why.

The White House sign was not on the podium during the performance.

But Van Ness' mock press conference from the White House briefing room angered critics of the Biden administration.

'Seriously, WTF,' wrote best selling author Jordan Peterson, sharing the video of Van Ness on social media. 'Enough of this.'

'Theyre making a mockery of our great country,' wrote conservative social media influencer Libs of TikTok. 'Disgusting.'

'The world is laughing at us,' one of her followers agreed.

Sarah Fields, the president of the Texas Freedom Coalition, also reacted negatively to the video, noting that Van Ness was a public advocate for children to get surgical gender transitions.

'Aside from making a mockery of our country, this is an attack from within,' she wrote.

Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed some of the creators and cast of the show Queer Eye to the White House as part of her celebration of Pride Month

Cast members of the show Queer Eye participate in a White House video

Van Ness made headlines last year after the star broke down in tears during a podcast debate defending trans rights.

It is not uncommon for White House staff to invite celebrities to formally take the podium for remarks at the beginning of a press conference.

Last year, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre welcomed the cast of 'The L Word' to celebrate Lesbian Visibility Week.

Visitors to the briefing room also typically take photos of themselves standing at the podium and share them on social media.

The creators and cast of the show were guests of Vice President Kamala Harris last week, who invited them to her ceremonial office at the White House executive office building for an event to mark the occasion of the show's 20th anniversary and Pride Month.

Kamala Harris shared a video celebrating the visit from the cast of Queer Eye. The caption on the video read 'Madam President'

'Thank you for a meaningful conversation, for giving my office your stamp of approval, and for being fabulous,' Harris wrote, sharing a video of the visit on social media.

Eagle-eye social media users pointed out that the video caption for the Harris video read 'Madam President,' suggesting the vice president was getting ahead of herself with the title.

Biden and his top staff were away from the White House during their visit as they were attending the G7 Summit in Italy.
Britain will be 'at war' within six months of a Labour election win, George Galloway claimed today as he launched his far-Left party's 'beautiful' election manifesto.

The Workers Party leader, a former Russia Today presenter, lashed out at Labour as he launched the 34-page document that promised to end UK military support for Ukraine, and hold a referendum on Nato membership.

It includes chapters on redistribution, democratic reform and Palestine and referenced K-Pop and 'creeping buro-fascism', and pledges to reduce the mandatory retirement age to 60.

The veteran politician spoke at the launch event at a hotel in Manchester, just a few miles south from Rochdale, where he became the town's MP in February, following a by-election triggered by the death of Labour incumbent Tony Lloyd.

Accompanied by his fourth wife, Putri Gayatri Pertiwi, the father-of-six adopted Tory language when he urged voters not to hand Labour - his former party - a 'supermajority' on July 4.

'We are potentially headed to Armageddon and if we don't get out of this death spiral, then none of this will have been worth arguing over at all,' he said.

'If Keir Starmer becomes the Prime Minister, within six months, Britain will be at war. I mean an actual war with British troops deployed.'

The Workers Party leader, a former Russia Today presenter, lashed out at Labour as he launched the 34-page document that promised to end UK military support for Ukraine, and hold a referendum on Nato membership.

Accompanied by his fourth wife, Putri Gayatri Pertiwi, the father-of-six adopted Tory language when he urged voters not to hand Labour - his former party - a 'supermajority' on July 4.

'We are potentially headed to Armageddon and if we don't get out of this death spiral, then none of this will have been worth arguing over at all,' he said.

He promised a 'staggering' breakthrough at the General Election for his party, which he described as the 'antidote' to both Labour, who he said they seek to replace, and Nigel Farage's Reform Party.

'We are the spirit of Labour past or what it was supposed to be. Labour, long ago, lost its way, lost its purpose,' he said.

Mr Galloway described both Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Mr Starmer as 'sub-prime performers' with 'vacuous' programmes, but said that Mr Farage, his former EU referendum colleague, at least 'has something to say' - even if he is wrong.

Workers Party manifesto: Economy Increase personal tax allowance to 21,200 and a 5 per cent wealth tax on all estates worth 10m and above. Reverse de-industrialisation and workers' control of industry through trade unions. Consider nationalising public services including rail, water, electricity and the 'military-industrial complex'. Environment Share the costs and benefits of the green agenda and change to combat global warming. Oppose Ulez (ultra low emission zone) initiatives because of costs imposed on small businesses and workers and oppose 'Green hysteria'. NHS Massive reduction in administration and management in the NHS, with 'Big Food' and 'Big Pharma' to be 'regulated' at 'every level'. Free speech and 'culture wars' End 'creeping buro-fascism' to support free speech and stop 'stealth oppression and stealth totalitarianism' via the law, regulations, 'lawfare' and 'cultural engineering'. Overhaul arts funding to make space in working-class communities for everything from 'K-Pop to Haydn', the manifesto promises. Immigration Recognise the 'anxiety' felt among working-class communities to mass migration but focus on the influx 'caused by our own actions' through war, sanctions on developing countries and unfair trading practices. The constitution Referendum on the continued existence of the monarchy and proportional representation for elections. Foreign policy Put an end to 'imperialist wars', withdrawal from Nato, a 'clear and present danger' to UK security, and support for Palestine. Welfare Review pensions policy with the 'aim' of all workers having the option to retire at 60, free school meals for all children without means testing, free adult education, to be paid for by scrapping the UK nuclear deterrent. Advertisement

His 10-point party programme begins with a pledge to end 'imperialist wars' and Nato withdrawal, a subject he returned to.

Mr Galloway claimed the BBC has been 'working' for Keir Starmer and Labour had been 'made safe' for 'the establishment' and the 'Deep State'.

He added: 'The fact that Starmer is going to take us to disaster potentially, existential disaster, is a national emergency.'

Mr Galloway said Britain had suffered decades of subservience to the EU and the US, making it a 'vassal' of Washington and a country, he said, being led by a 'senile dementia patient'.

He claimed Royal Navy warships were in the Black Sea, the Red Sea and the South China Sea, 'threatening others' rather than protecting their own coast.

And he described Nato as a 'war machine' with the West led by leaders who want conflict while edging closer to a 'game of nuclear bluff' with Russia, China and North Korea and only the 'woke armies of the West' to defend itself.

Party pledges on cheap housing, free childcare, free adult education and public laundries would be paid for by scrapping UK's nuclear weapons, which Mr Galloway said cost the country 12,000 every minute.

Polls suggest Mr Galloway will lose his own seat at the election, He clinched a stunning victory in the Rochdale by-election in February after one of the most divisive and chaotic contests in recent history.

Local voters chose the firebrand politician as their new MP to replace Sir Tony Lloyd, following the death of the veteran Labour politician in January.

Mr Galloway, who put a hardline pro-Palestinian stance at the heart of his campaign in a seat with a large Muslim population, ended his nine-year absence from the House of Commons.

'Keir Starmer, this is for Gaza,' the 69-year-old declared, as soon as he was announced as the winning candidate in Rochdale just before 3am.

The stunning victory came after Labour was forced to disown its candidate Azhar Ali over remarks condemned as anti-Semitic.

The party has chosen Paul Waugh, a journalist, to fight the seat this time around.

Mr Galloway sent an immediate warning to Labour that he would use his new platform in Parliament to berate Sir Keir Starmer over his position on the Middle East crisis.

The maverick returned to Westminster as a representative of a third different political party - the Workers Party of Britain - having previously been both a Labour and Respect MP.
Prince William showed he is a true gentleman as he rescued Kate's mother after her heel got stuck in the grass at Royal Ascot today.

The Prince of Wales, 41, shared a tender moment with Carole Middleton, who was making her first public appearance since her daughter's cancer diagnosis.

In touching photos from day two of Royal Ascot, William was seen offering a hand of support for his mother-in-law to grab onto after the heel of her right shoe got trapped in the turf.

Carole was seen having her very own Cinderella moment as her foot slipped out of her heel which was left behind in the ground, but she luckily had a charming prince on hand.

The pair were seen laughing off the shoe mishap as they walked off together and joined other guests.

During a packed second day at Royal Ascot, William - who was attending Ascot without the Princess of Wales - was spotted deep in conversation with Carole, Kate's father Michael and Zara Tindall.

The Prince of Wales arrived at Royal Ascot - the crown jewel of racing - with Queen Camilla in what was a rare joint outing at a social occasion.

Carole Middleton grabs hold of son-in-law Prince William's hand as she gets her heel stuck in the grass

Carole had her very own Cinderella moment as she lost her heel, but luckily she had a charming prince on hand

Carole Middleton speaks with Prince William as they attend day two of Royal Ascot

The pair were in good spirits as Carole and Michael Middleton made their first public appearance since Kate's diagnosis

Carole holds onto Prince William for support as she arrives at Royal Ascot

William walks along with Kate's parents, Michael and Carole Middleton, while the Princess of Wales stayed at home

Prince William deep in conversation with Carole Middleton and Zara Tindall at Royal Ascot today

At one point, Prince William's relationship with his stepmother was so bad that he allegedly 'begged' his father not to marry her.

Prince Harry famously claimed in his bombshell memoir Spare that he and William pleaded with King Charles not to tie the knot with 'wicked stepmother' Camilla.

But today, the pair looked at ease as they sat with the Earl and Countess of Halifax during the traditional royal carriage procession.

It was the first time that Camilla and William have teamed up since they led senior royals at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey in March.

But whilst that was an official engagement, Ascot is not on the roster of duties and so will be seen by royal watchers as a sign of how well William and the Queen now get on.

They were joined by royals including Zara and Mike Tindall and Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, who are today celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary.

Carole and Michael Middleton beamed as they arrived side-by-side for the prestigious event at the Berkshire racecourse.

Kate, who is continuing her cancer treatment, was not present despite making a welcome appearance at Trooping the Colour at the weekend.

She revealed in a statement on Friday she is making 'good progress' in her treatment but candidly said she has 'good days and bad days' and although there has been some limited working from home, she stressed 'I am not out of the woods yet'.

The Duchess of York and her daughters Eugenie and Beatrice, along with Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, also delighted crowds.

King Charles - who is continuing his own cancer treatment - did not repeat yesterday's appearance and instead focused on holding audiences at Buckingham Palace.

Radiant: Carole appeared effortlessly elegant in her blue number from Self-Portrait

Prince William was accompanied by Queen Camilla in the traditional carriage procession at Royal Ascot today in what was a rare joint appearance by the pair

The Prince of Wales, who once had a deeply strained relationship with his stepmother, looked at ease as he sat with her and the Earl and Countess of Halifax in front of adoring crowds

William's relationship with Camilla stretches back to the trauma of his childhood.

King Charles embarked on an affair with her in the late 1980s, when he was still married to Princess Diana.

The couple's romance remained low-key until after Diana's death in a car crash in Paris in 1997 - the year after she and Charles had divorced.

Camilla had been seeing Charles when she was still married to first husband Andrew Parker Bowles. They divorced in 1995.

In Spare, Harry likened Camilla to a 'wicked stepmother' and even accused her of leaking stories about him through a palace spin doctor.

However, when Charles and Camilla did get married in April 2005, both William and Harry were present at the ceremony.

In march, William and Camilla shared a giggle when they were joined by Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh for Commonwealth Day.

It was a far cry from their strained appearances in previous years.

Eugenie and husband Jack Brooksbank were in another carriage, and when the procession reached the parade ring, Zara was waiting to greet them all.

Other guests included Andrew Lloyd Webber who was made a Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter during a ceremony at Windsor Castle on Monday, attended by the King and Queen and other senior royals.

Queen Camilla attends day two of Royal Ascot 2024 at Ascot Racecourse on June 19, 2024

Queen Camilla is seen sitting opposite Prince William at Royal Ascot today

Prince William sits next to the Earl of Halifax and opposite Queen Camilla at Royal Ascot

Prince William is seen sitting opposite a beaming Queen Camilla and the Countess of Halifax

Queen Camilla, the Prince of Wales and the Earl and Countess of Halifax arrive by carriage during day two of Royal Ascot

The Prince of Wales waves to crowds as he arrives at Royal Ascot next to the Earl of Halifax

Prince William embraces Mike Tindall - the husband of his cousin Zara - at Royal Ascot today

Prince William at Royal Ascot today, mingling with other guests at the famous racecourse

Prince William speaks to the winning team during a presentation as he attends day two of Royal Ascot 2024

Prince of Wales speaks to the winning team during a presentation as he attends day two of Royal Ascot 2024

Prince Edward and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh wave to guests at Royal Ascot today, their 25th wedding anniversary

Princess Anne talks to Mike Tindall at Royal Ascot today. Bar the King and Kate, all senior royals were in attendance

Princess Anne seen at Royal Ascot today. She was one of several royals attending the prestigious event

Zara Tindall embraces Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, at Royal Ascot today

Prince William beams as he mixes with guests at Royal Ascot today

Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, stands alongside her daughter Princess Beatrice at Royal Ascot today

Carole Middleton drinks a glass of champagne at Royal Ascot today

Princess Beatrice spotted chatting to Zara Tindall ahead of this afternoon's race meet at Ascot

Zara, the Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Eugenie, Prince Edward and Mike Tindall at Royal Ascot today

Prince William stands alongside Zara Tindall and his uncle Prince Edward (left) as he waves at Royal Ascot today

Prince William enjoys a laugh with friend James Meade at Royal Ascot today

Princess Beatrice and husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi attend Royal Ascot today

Princess Eugenie beams at Royal Ascot today. She was joined by her sister Beatrice and mother the Duchess of York

Prince of Wales plays with the tassel on Prince Eugenie's hat

Princess Eugenie and Lady Laura Meade celebrate after the third race at Royal Ascot today

Jack Brooksbank embraces his wife Princess Eugenie at Royal Ascot today

Zara Tindall embraces Jack Brooksbank, the husband of Princess Eugenie, at Royal Ascot today

Prince William greets his cousin Zara Tindall at Royal Ascot today

Princess Beatrice greets Zara Tindall at Royal Ascot today. The royals turned out in force

Zara Tindall kisses her uncle Prince Edward at Royal Ascot today

Zara kisses Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, on the cheek at Royal Ascot

Jockey Ryan Moore is presented with a winners medal by The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester after Illinois won the Queen's Vase on day two of Royal Ascot

Zara Tindall stands alongside Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, at Royal Ascot today

Princess Eugenie seen at Royal Ascot today. She was joined by her mother and sister

Theatre impresario Lord Lloyd-Webber, whose hit musicals include The Phantom Of The Opera, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar and Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, was joined by his wife.

The Middletons also made their way into the ring to mingle with other guess from the royal box.

In March, Carole was pictured driving a 4x4 Audi, with Kate in the passenger seat, near Windsor Castle. The images were published by US gossip website TMZ.

Then in April, William was spotted on a 'low key' pub outing in Norfolk with his mother-in-law, while his wife stayed at home, The Daily Mail's Richard Eden reported. Carole was said to be staying with the couple over Easter.

For today's appearance, Carole looked effortlessly elegant in her all blue ensemble as she joined her equally sophisticated husband at Ascot.

Her floral dress appeared reminiscent of Kate's 1,275 blue lace creation by Elie Saab, which she first wore to Royal Ascot in 2019. It also featured a dainty bow and pleated detailing.

In march, William and Camilla shared a giggle when they were joined by Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh for the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey

Camilla and William sit next to each other at the Commonwealth Day Service in Westminster Abbey in March 2019. It was Harry and Meghan's final official engagement

Prince William enjoys a laugh with Camilla, then the Duchess of Cornwall, at the Invictus Games opening ceremony in September 2014

William and Camilla sit next to each other at Trooping the Colour in 2007

Prince William and Harry attend the wedding of their father Prince Charles and Camilla at the Guildhall in Windsor in 2005

Royal Ascot, the jewel in the crown of the UK racing calendar, started yesterday with the Queen Anne Stakes and will run until Saturday.

Yesterday, the King and Queen joined punters at the famous race meeting.

Lady Gabriella Windsor, who lost her husband earlier this year, was also present.

Charles and Camilla took on the late Queen's thoroughbreds and have entered a string of horses at the race.

The late Queen was a passionate owner and breeder of thoroughbreds, and had more than 20 Royal Ascot winners during her 70-year reign.
A wildfire near Athens fanned by strong winds and high temperatures has seen blazes breaking out 'every ten minutes' and forced officials to evacuate nearby houses.

Two villages and three private schools near the small town of Koropi were evacuated as a precaution, Greek authorities said on Wednesday.

Climate crisis and civil protection minister Vassilis Kikilias pointed the finger at arsonists and said the fire near Athens was of criminal origin and not caused 'solely by weather conditions'.

'The fire department and police investigating authorities have visual material clearly showing a man lighting a fire in dry grass,' he added at a press briefing.

Around 145 firefighters, 45 vehicles, six airplanes and 11 helicopters were deployed to tackle the blaze, some 19 miles southeast of the capital.

A policeman evacuates a local resident in Varis-Koropiou in the eastern Attica region of Greece

A helicopter drops water on the fire near Athens

A firefighter attempts to extinguish a wildfire in Kitsi, near the town of Koropi

Fire department spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis told the press: 'Fire spread rapidly in the area due to very strong winds with gusts that reached force eight on the Beaufort scale.'

This is equal to gale speeds of up to 45 miles per hour.

Mr Vathrakogiannis said the service was seeing fires break out 'almost every 10 minutes' in the heat, while adding that most had been quickly brought under control.

Officials said the wildfire broke out in low scrub and olive trees in a sparsely inhabited area near Vari - 18 miles from Athens.

With temperatures reaching 37 degrees in the Attica region surrounding the capital, Greece's civil protection services warned of a 'very high' fire risk on Wednesday and Thursday in several parts of the country.

Scores of Greek firefighters and water-bombing aircraft successfully tamed the large wildfire on the fringes of Athens - but said they would remain alert to stop it reviving.

But firefighters continue to battle blazes on five fronts on the Peloponnese peninsula, on the Aegean island of Lesbos, in Preveza, in Larissa and near Thessaloniki, according to the authorities.

The flames consumed nearly 432,000 acres of forest and farmland, according to the National Observatory of Athens.

Scientists warn that human-induced fossil fuel emissions are worsening the length, frequency and intensity of heatwaves across the world.

The rising temperatures are leading to longer wildfire seasons and increasing the area burnt in the flames, according to the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Men throw water on a tree during a wildfire in Kitsi, near Koropi

A local uses a bucked to extinguish a flame in the town of Koropi

Firefighters try to extinguish a wildfire in Kitsi

A plane drops water on a wildfire in Kitsi

Policemen evacuate local residents in Varis-Koropiou as a helicopter flies overhead

A damaged vehicle sits in an area burned during a wildfire

A man hoses a hose to extinguish a wildfire in Kitsi

A local resident is watched by a dog as he uses a hose to cool off the ground during a wildfire

A firefighter runs as a wildfire burns in Kitsi

A man watches a wildfire in Kitsi, near the town of Koropi

A policeman patrols the Kitsi area during a fire that broke out in Varis-Karopiou

Local residents use their shirts to protect themselves during a wildfire

Regularly hit by searing summer temperatures, Greece experienced what meteorologists said was its earliest heatwave in recorded history last week.

In 2023, the Mediterranean country experienced a two-week heatwave unprecedented in its duration that was followed by devastating wildfires.

Summer wildfires also plagued Greece's Mediterranean neighbour Turkiye, where two villages were evacuated but no injuries were reported.
A mortgage broker accused of murdering his wife at their home told medics he had last seen her alive and well 30 minutes before he called 999, a court has heard.

Robert Hammond has been accused of murdering his wife, Sian, days after paying her life insurance policy.

Hammond, 47, called the ambulance service at 1.50am on October 30 last year and told the operator he had found his 46-year-old wife face down on the bed and not breathing.

Air ambulance doctor Abilius Wong was among the medics who attended the couple's home in Primes Corner, Histon, Cambridgeshire, arriving in a response vehicle at 2.06am.

Dr Wong told jurors on Wednesday: 'According to my memory, he told us he had last seen the patient well about 30 minutes before the 999 call was made.'

Robert Hammond (pictured) has been accused of murdering his wife days after paying her life insurance policy

Sian Hammond (pictured) was pronounced dead at 2:35am following CPR efforts at the couple's home in Primes Corner, Histon, Cambridgeshire

Prosecutors say Robert Hammond faced a 'surging mountain of debt and financial pressures' and had paid his wife Sian's life insurance policy up to date days before her death.

A post-mortem examination indicated Mrs Hammond had been strangled, prosecutor Christopher Paxton KC earlier told the trial at Cambridge Crown Court.

He denies the murder of his wife.

Critical care paramedic Sally Boor, who attended in the car with Dr Wong, was asked by defence barrister Karim Khalil KC if Hammond may 'in fact have said 30 to 60 and you noted the first bit and not the second bit'.

She replied that it was 'unlikely but possible'.

Ms Boor recalled that during CPR, blood had come up through one of the tubes inserted by medics into Mrs Hammond's mouth.

'It's not typical for it to happen at such an early stage,' she said, adding: 'It normally occurs after 20 to 30 minutes of resuscitation.'

She said she had been told that Mrs Hammond had earlier taken diazepam, that was not her own, 'because she was excited and nervous about her daughter coming back from Switzerland later that day'.

A post-mortem examination indicated Mrs Hammond had been strangled, prosecutor Christopher Paxton KC earlier told the trial at Cambridge Crown Court (pictured)

Emergency care assistant Carl Clifton, who also attended the scene, was asked by prosecutor Mr Paxton if there was 'ever any sign of life'.

'No, there was not,' he said, agreeing that Mrs Hammond was pronounced dead at 2.35am following CPR efforts.

He said that eight medics attended the address to try to save Mrs Hammond.

The trial continues.
A Colorado-based entrepreneur has infuriated social media users after he smiled in a selfie in a post about letting go of one of his employees.

Matthew Baltzell posted a photo of himself smiling at his desk last week on LinkedIn and revealed that he had fired his first employee.

The entrepreneur and influencer used the LinkedIn post to explain what he learned after giving the now-former employee the axe.

Baltzell said, 'Handling an employee's exit can either strengthen or weaken your company culture.'

Baltzell founded Elite Podcast Bookings in May 2020 before rebranding it to CAP X MEDIA last March.

Matthew Baltzell, a Colorado-based entrepreneur, infuriated social media after posting a smiling selfie on LinkedIn one week after firing an employee

Baltzell used the LinkedIn post to give a structured explanation about what he learned after firing the now-former employee

Headquartered in Denver, Baltzell described CAP X MEDIA on LinkedIn as a company that is 'helping real estate investors build their brand and raise capital through digital media.'

The entrepreneur did not identify the former employee or specify that they worked for CAP X MEDIA, but he did share other details.

Baltzell divided his job firing explanation into four parts: a 10-minute meeting, a severance package, a recommendation, and transparency.

He kept the meeting 'short and direct' and confirmed that he gave 'one week's pay for each year of work.'

Baltzell noted that he offered to be the former employee's reference for future employment.

Baltzell founded Elite Podcast Bookings in May 2020 before rebranding it to CAP X MEDIA last March. The company is headquartered in Denver

Baltzell claimed in his LinkedIn post that he 'stayed clear and honest' after he fired his employee.

He explained that he notified other co-workers of what happened after the meeting with the former employee ended.

'I sent a message over Slack to inform everyone that the employee was no longer with us without giving details,' Baltzell wrote.

'I provided the ex-employee's contact info to the team and encouraged them to reach out if they wished.'

The LinkedIn influencer chose to be open and honest with his team so that they would know he respects their decisions about their futures with the company.

'This approach shows my team that if they ever have to leave, they'll be treated with respect, not discarded like trash,' Baltzell wrote.

He added that the former employee handled his firing 'professionally and with grace.'

While the former employee may have handle the firing gracefully, LinkedIn and Threads users were less accepting of Baltzell's methods and his photo choice.

Baltzell sparked outrage, primarily on Threads

'I would never work for an individual that was so insecure about his own leadership that he had to share the semantics in his first firing experience,' a LinkedIn user wrote.

'Leaders dont behave this way, you lose credibility in your philosophical beliefs and sound like a gossiping holier-than-thou brat.'

Another Threads user posted a screenshot of another negative comment from the LinkedIn post and wrote: 'He should be the one to get fired.'

However, a few LinkedIn users did appreciate the influencer's post, and one person praised him for his handling of the situation.

'Your approach to handling the employee termination with transparency and respect is commendable,' a LinkedIn user commented on the post.

'Having a structured outline for future conversations furthers the process.'
A Good Samaritan who beat up an illegal immigrant child rape suspect has revealed the sharp comeback he made as the man pleaded for mercy.

Jeffrey Flores, 24, said: 'He was yelling for help... he kept saying "Help!"... and I said, "That's what the little girl was saying".'

Flores issued the riposte to Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, 25, on seeing him at his local deli in Corona, Queens, Tuesday night.

Inga-Landi, from Ecuador, is accused of raping a 13 year-old girl while brandishing a machete last Thursday and also abducting a second youngster at the same time.

Jeffrey Flores, 24, took down alleged child rapist Christian Inga-Landy, 25, after realizing the suspect frequented his local deli in Corona, Queens (pictured) and staking it out

Flores is pictured with his 22 year-old friend Forge, who also helped take down Inga-Landi. The pair say they may have killed the suspected predator had he not crawled under a car

Inga-Landi is pictured cowering on the street Monday after being tied to a light post and beaten

The suspect managed to crawl to safety under this silver Mercedes, with that act likely saving his life

His image was widely-circulated by local media after, with Flores and a friend who gave his name as Forge quickly realizing the suspect was a local man.

They staked out a deli they'd seen him in, with Flores dragging Inga-Landi outside and tying him to a light post on seeing him show up.

Inga-Landi crawled under a nearby car in a bid to escape the blows of six outraged locals - with both men saying they may well have killed him had he not escaped the orgy of vigilante violence.

Flores told DailyMail.com: 'What we were thinking of doing to him was much worse.'

Forge added: 'Honestly, who knows what would have happened (if he hadn't crawled under the car).

'He probably wouldn't be here.'

Inga-Landi, who's said to have illegally-crossed the southern border in 2021, was arrested soon after and is being held in jail on charges including rape, sex abuse, robbery and unlawful endangerment.

Recalling how he'd tracked down the creep, Flores said: 'When I heard about him I said "Oh yeah I'm staying out and looking for him..."

This snap shows Inga-Landi shortly after Tuesday's arrest. The Ecuadorian is said to have crossed into the US illegally in 2021

Inga-Landi pictured Wednesday. He faces charges including rape and sex abuse

The attack took place on Thursday around three miles from the Citi Field stadium, in the neighborhood of the victim's school

'Then I saw him walking down the street, and I recognized him. I was hyped up... He went inside the store... I forget what he was buying.

'So I went in and back out, then in again a second time, he still wasn't out. He was just standing there so I grabbed him and I put him on the floor

'I told the people there that he was the rapist and then everybody just started going crazy.'

Flores is now in line to collect a $10,000 reward offered by the NYPD for Inga-Landi's successful capture.

He told DailyMail.com that he'd contacted police about the cash and says they'll get back to him within days.

Flores added: 'I didn't do it for the reward, I did it for the people.'

After being arrested, Inga-Landi is said to have waived his Miranda rights and told police officers that drugs were to blame for his behavior.

He allegedly added that he'd never behaved in that way before.

NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell praised Flores, Forge and their friends for taking down Inga-Landi saying: 'The city said no. Great community response and that's what you want.'
A nine-year-old boy with a promising career in motorbike racing died on Monday, just days after crashing during a practice session in Brazil.

Lorenzo Somaschini was participating in a first free practice when he crashed at the Interlagos track in Sao Paulo, the event organizer SuperBike Brasil said.

Somaschini, a native of the Argentina central city of Rosario, suffered serious injuries from the fall and was stabilized in the racetrack's emergency room.

He was rushed to Geral da Pedreira Hospital and remained there until early Saturday, when his medical condition worsened.

Somaschini was then transferred to Albert Einstein Hospital, where he passed away.

Nine-year-old Lorenzo Somaschini, a native of Rosario, Argentina, died Monday at a hospital in Brazil, just three days after he was seriously injured in a motorcycle crash while practicing for an upcoming race in the southeastern city of Sao Paulo

Lorenzo Somaschini debuted in April at the Argentine Superbike Junior Cup and had dreams of one day competing in MotoGp

'Everyone on the SuperBike Brasil team is appalled by the event and expresses sincere feelings to all of Lorenzo's family and friends,' SuperBike Brasil said.

Somaschini was preparing for his first race in Brazil when he fell at the exit of the Pinheirinho, considered the slowest corner of the Formula 1 track.

He was traveling at 25 miles per hour, according to his instructor Diego Pierluigi.

'The fall was very slow, but Lolo his head on the very bottom of the helmet in a position that caused inflammation at the base of his skull,' Pierluigi told Reuters.

Lorenzo Somaschini suffered a head injury after falling of his motorcycle during a free practice at Interlagos, a motorsport track in Sao Paulo, Brazil

Retired three-time MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo, whom Somaschini admired and honored with the number 99 on his bike, sent his condolences to the young rider's family.

'My heart breaks because I was his idol and he had my number,' the Spaniard said on Instagram. 'Unfortunately, motorcycles can give us everything, at any time. A very big hug to the family.'

The late phenom made debuted in April at the Argentine Superbike Junior Cup, riding a Honda CB250 Twister.

Just days ahead of the race, Somaschini told La Capital newspaper that his interest in the motorsport came at the early age of two.

'My dad rode a motorcycle, when I was two years old he took me to the supermarket and I started to like it. My goal is to reach MotoGP,' Somaschini said.
Sand blows across the Great Highway in San Francisco. The roadway along the citys oceanfront has been closed to cars on the weekends. This November, voters will decide if cars will remain banned on the road. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle

San Francisco residents are poised to decide this November whether to ban cars on the Great Highway, for good.

Five city supervisors, with the support of Mayor London Breed, submitted a proposal to the citys Department of Elections on Tuesday that would leave voters to decide the long-term fate of the Great Highway  which runs along the citys oceanfront coast line.

Cars have been prohibited on whats known as the Upper Great Highway from Lincoln Way to Sloat Boulevard on weekends since August 2021. The roadways future has been the subject of intense debate since city officials initially closed it to cars in spring 2020 at the height of the pandemic.

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Breed reopened the highway to car traffic on weekdays in 2021, and city supervisors in 2022 voted to keep the current hours in place through the end of 2025.

District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio, who represents the Sunset District, said an issue of this magnitude deserves to go to the voters. There are no scheduled elections next year before the expiration date of the current pilot, and Engardio said voters should get the final say on the Great Highway.

Currently, the portion south of the Upper Great Highway from Sloat to Skyline boulevards is slated to close permanently to cars by early 2026 because of chronic and worsening coastal erosion.

A pedestrian walks along the Great Highway in San Francisco. On weekends, the roadway has been closed to cars. Stephen Lam

A permanent car ban on the Great Highway would mean that the city would have a waterfront park spanning almost three miles from Lincoln Way to Skyline Boulevard. If the measure fails, the southern portion of the Great Highway would still close to cars, though city supervisors would have to decide the fate of the Upper Great Highway after the current pilot expires in December 2025.

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I think an oceanside park is a good thing for our city, Engardio said. This is a once-in-a-century opportunity to create something iconic in San Francisco along the lines of a Golden Gate Bridge. And right now, we know its going to be a highway to nowhere.

Engardio said he wants the city to replace stop signs with traffic lights at intersections on Lincoln Way to create smoother commutes for motorists who would take Sunset Boulevard instead of the Great Highway.

The ballot question will ask voters to decide an issue that remains divisive among residents, particularly those living on the westside.

Competing factions of residents have sought to ban or keep cars on the Great Highway since 2020. The Great Highway is a popular walkway when its closed on the weekends, drawing thousands of people. Some residents have long called for a permanent ban on cars to create what would become one of the citys largest parks.

The closure to cars, though, also has drawn opposition from residents who want the highway to remain open to cars 24/7. The highway served as a popular commute route to the Peninsula for westside residents before the pandemic, and some residents cite the weekend closure as another example of the city making it harder to get around by car.

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Last month, the California Coastal Commission rejected an appeal by a group of residents vying to reopen the Great Highway to car traffic at all hours.
Donations have poured in for the Texas surgeon who blew the whistle on secret sex change procedures on kids at his hospital after his indictment on federal charges.

Dr Eithan Haim's legal defense fund ballooned to more than $767,000 after he appeared in court on Monday for illegally obtaining private information on patients.

Those sending money praised Haim for 'holding the line' and 'standing up for children' in the face of 'corruption' at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston.

He in May 2023 released medical files showing that staff had provided puberty blockers and other gender care to kids, even after hospital bosses said they'd stopped doing so in March 2022.

The 34-year-old and his supporters say he's being unjustly targeted by the Biden administration's Justice Department for taking a stand against radical gender ideology.

Dr Eithan Haim, left, and his defense attorney, Ryan Patrick, speak to reporters outside court

Haim's revelations showed that Texas Children's Hospital continued providing gender-reassignment care to children even after officials insisted they had stopped

Prosecutors say he snatched the medical records and shared them with a conservative activist 'to cause malicious harm' to America's largest pediatric facility.

Haim on Monday pleaded not guilty in federal court to four counts of wrongfully obtaining individually identifiable health information.

'I have maintained from day one that I have done nothing wrong,' Haim said after the hearing.

'We're going to fight this tooth and nail, stand up for whistleblowers everywhere.'

He faces up to 10 years behind bars and a $250,000 fine if convicted. He was released on $10,000 bond.

He slammed what he calls a 'political prosecution meant to silence whistleblowers.'

'The most powerful investigative agency on the planet getting the facts so egregiously wrong cannot be attributed to simple incompetence,' he posted on X.

He says he needs funds to cover his legal costs in a case that's already forced him to cash in his retirement funds, investments, and other savings.

His supporters appear to agree, wiring sums as small as $5 and in many cases much larger via GiveSendGo, a Christian crowdfunding site.

'Thank you for fighting to keep our children safe!' said one anonymous donor.

'I wish you strength through this journey to continue to fight for what is just,' wrote another.

Some donors identified themselves as doctors or surgeons who were also worried about sex change care for children.

'Surgeons like us are the sharp end of the stick to fight this literal battle of good versus evil,' said an entry from Dan Downey, MD.

The Dallas surgeon, worked at Texas Children's as part of his residency.

In 2023, he allegedly asked to reactivate his login there to access information on child patients not under his care, including names, attending physicians and treatment codes.

He then allegedly turned the information over to a media contact.

Haim has publicly admitted he gave the files to Christopher Rufo, the conservative activist who published a redacted version of his screengrabs with patients' names and other details omitted.

Haim's whistleblower documents (pictured) showed that Texas Children's Hospital continued to provide sex change care for young patients after staff said they had stopped doing so

The story alleged that children were secretly getting puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones from the hospital, which had in 2022 announced it was halting gender-affirming care for youth.

Texas lawmakers went on to ban sex change care for minors in September 2023.

That law is being challenged in court. Some two dozen have adopted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for trans youth, and most of those states face lawsuits.

Texas Children's declined to comment on the charges against Haim. Hospital officials say its doctors have always provided care within the law.

The hospital said it would stop sex change procedures on kids after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton ruled in February 2022 that it could be a form of child abuse under state law.

Activist Rufo published Haim's documents in May 2023, showing TCH doctors had continued treating kids within days of the hospital's announcement, and continued doing so into 2023.

The records who how one TCH doctor performed trans procedures on youths aged from 12 to 17 who were visiting for 'gender dysphoria' and 'gender identity.'

One record revealed an appointment with an 11-year-old 'female-to-male transgender person'  three days after the hospital announced it was halting such treatments.

After the revelations, Paxton launched a probe into TCH, and the facility said again that it was halting gender reassignment treatments for children.

At the time, a TCH spokeswoman told DailyMail.com that doctors provided 'high-quality care for all patients  within the bounds of the law.'

Advocates of gender-affirming care say it is necessary treatment for suicide-prone minors.

Critics say kids are too young to opt for irreversible sex change treatments, and often just need mental health counselling instead.
A long-dormant Maryland cold case murder has finally been cracked, but the discovery of the suspect has left the victim's family reeling.

The accused killer had dated the victim's daughter.

When Leslie Preer's colleague arrived at her home in Chevy Chase one morning in 2001 because she hadn't shown up to work that morning she found blood in the foyer and then her body in an upstairs bedroom, the Washington Post reported.

She called the Montgomery police.

Investigators concluded her death was a homicide as the result of blunt force trauma inflicted during a struggle.

However, because there were no leads, Preer's case went cold for years.

That was until DNA advances allowed evidence collected from the scene on June 9 to match with someone the victim's daughter, Lauren Preer, knew all too well.

'It's been a hell of a day... 'He was my ex-boyfriend!' she told Fox 5 DC.

Twenty-three years ago in the town of Chevy Chase, Leslie Preer's (pictured) colleague went to check on her coworker after she didn't show up to work. After finding blood in the foyer, the colleague called the Montgomery police, who found Preer's body in an upstairs bedroom

Leslie Preer's death was ruled a homicide, but because there were no leads, her case went cold for years. That is, until DNA evidence collected from the scene on June 9 recently matched with someone the victim's daughter, Lauren Preer, knew all too well (Pictured: the house Leslie's body was found in)

Lauren and Gligor grew up in the same neighborhood and their families were friends.

'We started dating when we were 15, so his family and my family knew each other,' said Lauren.

Police haven't revealed whether Lauren and Gligor were still dating at the time of Preer's murder.

Eerily, Lauren had run into Gligor at a restaurant in D.C. within the last year under normal pretenses.

He acted like nothing had happened.

'I've spoken to him. He didn't seem weird and how you could look someone in the eye and know that you committed this crime and act like nothing happened is pretty unreal,' she said.

In 2022, detectives re-examined blood gathered from the crime scene in 2001 using new forensic genealogy to establish a DNA link, which then led them to Eugene Gligor, 44.

When asked if Gligor was ever on her radar as being a potential suspect, Lauren responded: 'No, not at all.'

Montgomery County Police Chief Nicholas Augustine attributed the arrest in the cold case to significant advancements in forensic technology.

'It's forensic genealogy that helped us get a name or DNA relation to link that to the victim,' Augustine said. 'We will go many years, whether it's 20 or 40 years, to find out the answers and hold people accountable for violent incidents that happened in the past.'

DNA evidence collected from the scene on June 9 recently matched with someone the victim's daughter, Lauren Preer, knew all too well. 'It's been a hell of a day!' she told Fox 5 DC . 'He was my ex-boyfriend!'

In 2022, detectives re-examined blood evidence recovered from the crime scene in 2001 and utilized forensic genealogy to establish a DNA link, which led them to Eugene Gligor, 44, who was Lauren's high school ex boyfriend



After years of the case being cold, authorities even offered a $10,000 reward for anyone who relayed information that led to an arrest in 2022.

Gligor was arrested Tuesday after a warrant for his arrest went out Sunday.

The suspect is currently in D.C. and is awaiting extradition to Montgomery County, Maryland.

It is unclear if he has entered a plea at this time.
The mother of missing British teenager Jay Slater has issued a tearful plea for people to find her son as the chaotic search to track him down enters its fourth day.

Mountain rescue crews and sniffer dogs had been searching the mountainous area of north-west Tenerife for Jay, 19, from Lancashire, yesterday afternoon.

But suddenly police focus shifted to the tourist hotspots of Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas in south Tenerife, after a false sighting of him getting out of a taxi.

It later emerged the report was false and police, having wasted precious time in the blistering 27C heat, were forced to move attention back to their original site.

Jay's devastated mother Debbie Duncan told ITN: 'It's a nightmare. It's just an absolute living nightmare. It's like a dream - it's like it's not happening, it really is. I wouldn't wish this on anybody.

'I just want my baby back. Please, just anybody who can help just look for him. There's a massive area up there, massive. It's over 48 hours now since he last had any contact with anybody.

'He's out there somewhere, or somebody knows where he is. We just need to find my baby.'

The search for the apprentice bricklayer from Oswaldtwistle enters its third day with Jay's last sighting on Sunday night at the NRG music festival in southern Tenerife.

Jay's devastated mother Debbie Duncan (pictured) called her son's disappearance a 'living nightmare'

Jay (left) is pictured right alongside mother Debbie and brother Zak (right) who flew out to Tenerife following his disappearance

Jay's final Snapchat shows the teenager laughing and smiling around 8.35pm on the night before he went missing

Jay's mother Debbie got emotional as she spoke about her beloved son's disappearance

His mother said: 'First holiday abroad, saving up, looking forward to this event, three-day DJs from everywhere, absolutely buzzing about it.'

She added: 'Now I just wish I hadn't have encouraged him to go, I should have said ''don't go to Tenerife''.

'He's just an ace person. Everyone loves being in his company. He's the life and soul, a beautiful boy, a good looking boy. He needs to be here.

'I said to him as well, I said ''Jay please have your wits about you, you're in a foreign country, just stay together''.'

The teenager, who was on his first holiday with friends, is believed to have got into a car with two men in the early hours of Monday and ended up at their accommodation in a national park about 40 minutes drive away.

Panic erupted when, at around 8.50am, a disoriented Jay called his friend Lucy Mae as he tried to walk back to Playa de las Americas but was thirsty, lost and only had one per cent battery on his phone.

The call cut out and the teenager has not been seen or heard from since, but his last known location was in the remote Rural de Teno Park, a 10-hour walk from where he was staying.

A MailOnline graphic detailing the timeline of events from when Jay attended the three-day NRG festival to his location when his phone died at around 8.50am on Monday

Police are checking vans today to try and find the teenager

Jay is seen in this image shared to his friend Lucy's social media days before he disappeared

His distraught mother Debbie said: 'It's just traumatic and it doesn't feel real. It's just awful, it's horrendous.

'I think he's been taken against his will with what's been said, but it's in the hands of the police.'

'He's just a great person who everyone wanted to be with. He's good looking, he's a popular boy.'

Valuable time in the hunt for the missing teenager have been wasted after Spanish police moved their search to the other side of the island after a false sighting.

Earlier, a spokesman for the Civil Guard confirmed 'the search operation has moved to the south of the island' in Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Americas.

While a spokesman did not offer any more detail, it was added: 'It's obviously down to information that's been received as the investigation has progressed.

'As things stand at the moment the search in the mountainous area near Masca in the north has been halted.'

But it was later ruled out as a false sighting by a well-meaning member of the public. Jay's mother Ms Duncan told MailOnline: 'It was a false alarm but with good intention.

'Someone thought they had seen him get into a car with two other guys but it was wrong.

'The search is still focusing on the north where he was last seen. We still don't have any updates and need people to keep looking.'

Social media posts from the night before show Jay smiling in a grey t-shirt with green patches on the shoulders.

A screenshot of Jay's last known location where his phone battery died

Cops are showing photos of Jay's face and checking vans for him today

It has now emerged that Jay also posted an out of focus photo of a hand holding a cigarette at 7.30am at the property where he travelled to with the two men.

His mother and father Warren have rushed out to Tenerife with other relatives and friends to join the search.

Ms Duncan told MailOnline earlier: 'We all just want him found safe and sound as quickly as possible.'

There at now around 15 family and friends in Tenerife searching for Jay. Among them are his mother Ms Duncan, brother Zak and father Warren Slater, who lives in Blackburn.

Local hoteliers and car hire firms helping out free of charge. The family are also being assisted by the British embassy.

Speaking from the south of the island where her son had been staying, Ms Duncan said: 'I'm obviously beside myself with worry which is why I've flown out here with my eldest son to do anything we can to help.

Pictured are drones in the sky searching for Jay today

'We're just praying the police or someone finds Jay. I know there's a mountain rescue team out and a helicopter.

'Nothing's ever going to be enough when your youngest son's gone missing but it sounds as if the police here are taking this very seriously and doing the best job they can.'

She added: 'He'd been at a three-day festival so he would have consumed a fair bit of alcohol but Jay was snapchatting with friends before he went missing and seemed very compos mentis.'

She told the BBC her son is an 'all-round nice, bubbly guy with hundreds of friends'. He's gorgeous, he's beautiful. He's my baby,' she said.

Staying at home in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, to 'hold down the fort' is Ms Duncan's partner and Jay's stepfather Andy Watson.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Mr Watson said: 'Who lives in the mountains? It would be wrong to speculate, but everyone has their own impression in their head.

'I wouldn't have gone off with two people I didn't know. But he's 19, he's impressionable, isn't he? If someone said there's more drink at our house, he's going to go.'

Mr Watson added: 'He has me run him down to the hairdressers, 200 yards away - why would he walk eight hours?'

He added: 'It's just all like it's not really happening. When it's in front of you on the news and his picture's looking back, it's like this is not happening.

'It happens to other people, not us. But that's not right, is it? It's not a good time at all. Having said that, nothing definite's happened, has it?'

Jay's friend Lucy reported Jay missing to police and launched search efforts yesterday morning

Slater had attended the New Rave Generation music festival in Tenerife over the weekend

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, travelled to the Canary Islands for a musical festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Slater is seen with friends in pictures shared on social media

Jay was reported missing on Sunday morning by friend Lucy Mae

Ms Duncan previously revealed she had received prank calls from Brits with 'northern accounts' on hidden numbers claiming they had kidnapped her son and held him for ransom.

She said: 'Some of the phone calls I've been getting have been horrible. I just don't know why people would want to do things like this.

'I've been getting lots of prank calls. It's sickening. People ringing me and saying they've got Jay because he owes them money.

'But it's not putting me off and I want to keep this in the news because it's going to increase the chances of Jay being found safe and well which is obviously what we're praying for.'

Former Coronation Street star Vicky Entwistle has shared a heart-wrenching post on social media, as she prays for Jay's safe return.

Ms Entwistle, who is a close friend of the family, used her social media platform to share the missing poster of Jay which has details of his last location.

The actress who played Janice Battersby in the ITV soap said: 'My God Mother's Grandson has gone missing. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please pray for him.'

A FCDO spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has been reported missing in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.'

My God Mothers Grandson has gone missing. His Mother has flown out 7pm. To join the police search. Hope to God they find him. Please for him.  pic.twitter.com/L7gWxsew8O  Vicky Entwistle (@vicky_entwistle) June 18, 2024

Jay travelled to the Canary Islands for this past weekend's 'New Rave Generation' (NRG) music festival with pal Lucy and another friend last week

Lucy Mae said of Jay: 'He's ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there... then in the morning he's set off walking, using his Maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around'

Revellers are seen partying at the New Rave Generation festival

'I've never been so worried in my life,' Lucy said

The New Rave Generation festival is seen in this screen grab of video footage from the event

The 19-year-old travelled to the holiday island for a music festival and his last-known location was the Teno Rural Park

A Civil Guard spokeswoman in Tenerife said just before 11am local time today, before it emerged a search had begun in the south a 45-minute drive from the Masca area: 'We are still searching for the missing man.

'The search operation is being conducted by the Civil Guard and different units are participating.

'They include the helicopter unit, the cynological unit which uses dogs, the Greim mountain rescue and intervention unit and citizen security patrols.

'The helicopter unit has one helicopter which has been participating in the search since it began on Monday.

'We're not going to talk about the number of officers involved but it's a large operation.

'The focus area is the area where we were informed the missing man had disappeared which is the narrow valley within the Teno Massif called the Masca Gorge.'

She added: 'When there's a disappearance police always look at all options and investigate all the possibilities.

'In this case no hypothesis has been ruled out as you'd expect at the start of any investigation.'
A suspected drunk driver has been arrested after mowing down two cyclists on a road near Dallas Fort Worth airport.

Benjamin Hylander, 31, is accused of ramming his white Subaru SUV into the back of Cynthia, 68, and Thomas Geppert, 69.

Shocking video showed the vehicle slamming into the back of Cynthia before driving over Thomas after knocking him to the ground.

The incident took place on Monday and was shared on X, formerly Twitter, by a user who confirmed the driver did not stop to aid the victims.

A Texas driver has reportedly been arrested after mowing down two cyclists on a road near Dallas Fort Worth airport

The video shows two cyclists riding side by side in the inside lane of the freeway.

Suddenly the Subaru emerges in the distance and is seen barreling towards them.

The vehicle continues to bomb down the road before ramming into the back of one of the cyclist, knocking them into the road.

The car then swerves and clips the back wheel of the other cyclist, sending him sprawling to the floor.

The vehicle then speeds over his limp body with first the front then back wheel, crushing the man into the ground.

As the clip ends the car is seen speeding off in the outside lane.

Shocking video showed white Subaru SUV slamming into the back of a cyclist before driving over another after knocking him to the ground

A witness said other bystanders managed to chase down the driver who was arrested

The woman who shared the footage online stated that the cyclists were expected to make a recovery.

She said the witnesses chased down the driver and convinced him to return to the scene.

Whilst police were aiding the victims, Hylander ran over shouting 'I'm sorry' at Geppert, according to the officers' report.

'Hylander kept apologizing for running over Geppert,' the report said. 'While Hyander spoke to us, his breath emitted an odor of an alcoholic beverage.'

Benjamin Hylander has been charged with two counts of intoxication assault with a vehicle and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon

While searching his vehicle, cops said they found six cans of Voodoo Ranger beer behind the passenger seat.

An image in the same post showed the suspect being led away from the scene in handcuffs.

Hylander has been charged with two counts of intoxication assault with a vehicle and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Two Burkini-wearing British tourists have been left in tears after an alleged verbal attack by two hotel guests.

The two Muslim women from London, aged 25 and 19, were reportedly verbally harassed as they entered the pool in the Mangia's Torre del Barone resort in Sciacca, southern Italy, on June 11.

Two Italian men also holidaying at the resort, who are living in Switzerland and Germany respectively, allegedly told the Burkini-clad women: 'It's not hygienic to enter the pool with a suit, shame on you.'

They also said: 'Who knows what they are hiding down there,' according to Italian newspaper Corriere.

Another guest intervened and defended the women, who have since demanded police action over the incident.

The two Muslim women from London, aged 25 and 19, were reportedly verbally harassed as they entered the pool in the Mangia's Torre del Barone resort (pictured) in Sciacca, southern Italy, on June 11

Keswan Monien, the director of the resort (pictured), told outlet Corriere: 'Having to still hear certain things in 2024 is shameful, we strongly condemn every episode of racism'

Keswan Monien, the director of the resort, told outlet Corriere: 'Having to still hear certain things in 2024 is shameful, we strongly condemn every episode of racism.

'After the verbal attack the two women asked to speak to me. When they came into my office they were crying and were very upset. I tried to calm them down, but they asked me to report the incident, and I had them taken to the police station.'

At the local police station, the women reported the men for defamation and harassment.

Mr Monien, who came to Italy from Mauritius 37 years ago, said that 'nothing like this has ever happened' at the resort and to 'still hear people talk in this way is simply shameful'.

He said that while the two men were asked to leave, he could not legally chase them away and the men ended up staying at the resort until the end of their holiday a few days later.

The two British women, who were at the resort with two other women, left the resort on June 14.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un revived a Cold War-era mutual defense pledge on Wednesday.

But that wasn't all that North Korea watchers noticed during Putin's visit to the hermit kingdom.

Sue Mi Terry, a former CIA analyst, said Kim looked ill.

'My first reaction looking at Kim Jong Un was, "Oof, he doesn't look too great to me,"' she told CNN.

'There was a time when he lost a little weight and he looked better. So my initial reaction was that he didnt look, in terms of being healthy, because his health is something that we always track anyway.'

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin in his capital Pyongyang on Tuesday and Wednesday as they agreed a defense pact

The state of Kim's weight is not just the preserve of gossips.

An entire industry has grown up around monitoring the ups and downs of his waistline.

Without a publicly named successor, intelligence chiefs fear his sudden incapacitation could tip the dirt-poor, nuclear-armed country into chaos.

Collins explained that the lack of reliable information from North Korea meant analysts studied images of Kim to get a sense of how he was doing.

South Korea's National Intelligence Service keeps a particularly close watch.

Three years ago it said Kim had lost 44 pounds. It estimated his weight fell from about 308 pounds to about 264, according to lawmakers briefed on its findings.

Putin's overnight visit offers the chance to study a raft of fresh images of the North Korean leader looking bloated and red faced.

Questions about his health surface every year or so.

Last year he disappeared from public view for more than a month, triggering speculation that he was ill.

Analyst Sue Mi Terry said Kim appeared to have put on weight and looked unhealthy

South Korea's National Intelligence Service used images of Kim in 2021 to estimate that the North Korean leader lost 44 pounds

Some of the most serious concerns arose in 2020, as the coronavirus pandemic enveloped the world.

A website run by North Korean defectors said he had been struggling with heart trouble for months.

CNN reported that Washington was monitoring intelligence that Kim was in 'grave danger.'

It was followed up in the Japanese media with an unconfirmed report that he was in a 'vegetative state' after surgery to relieve pressure in an congested blood vessel.

Then President Donald Trump later weighed in to say the rumors were 'incorrect.'
A suspected transgender murderess accused of shooting her parents dead was filmed being arrested by cops in Utah.

Collin Troy Bailey, 28, who goes by the name Mia, was filmed being led away by seven armed officers in Washington City Wednesday afternoon.

Bailey's dramatic arrest came hours after her mother Gail, 69, and father Joseph, 70, were found dead in their nearby home.

No motive for the horrific double-slaying has been given.

Collin Bailey, also known as Mia Bailey, is filmed being arrested in Utah Wednesday afternoon

Flanked by seven officers, some of whom are in tactical gear and carrying assault rifles and a dog, Bailey is led from a desert area with two men holding onto her

Bailey is in the process of transitioning from male to female, with no motive given for her alleged crimes

Officer Tiffany Mitchell with St. George Police Department said in a social media video that Bailey was in custody.

She said: 'We have some good news. We have the suspect in custody, everyone is safe. No one else was injured.

'So the stay at home, shelter, that we have put in place in this area has been lifted. Again, there is no suspect outstanding.'

The brother of Gail, Mike Mitchell, has also since shared updates on his social media about the couples death.

He said: 'My sister Gail and her husband Blue Bailey were shot dead tonight. I'm numb.

'Their own son killed them. My poor mother has lost 3 of her 5 children. You always think it only happens to someone else. Give your brother or sister a call. Stay in touch.'

Bailey's arrest ended a 16 hour search after officers were called to reports of shots fired at the address, where officers found her parents.

Officers had warned that Bailey was considered to be armed and dangerous after she was seen fleeing the scene in a yellow 2014 Kia Sol.

Gephardt Daily reported that in the early hours of Wednesday morning, police transmissions indicated that officers had located Bailey's general area.

Bailey is accused of shooting her mother and father dead at the family's Utah home

Police said they were called after reports of shots fired at the home, and upon entry found the dead couple, confirming they died from gunshot wounds

Bailey fled the scene of the killing in this bright yellow Kia Soul

The outlet said that they believed the suspect to be on foot and officers were trying to contain the area while awaiting for a SWAT team.

Another update followed asking residents to be on alert in the Bloomington Hills and Fort Pierce area of the city.

City Police Lt. Kory Klotz told St. George News: '[Officers] did find two deceased victims  both adults, one female, one male.

'As they cleared the rest of the residence, they found evidence of a homicide. Her whereabouts are unknown.
As postal ballots begin landing on doormats around the country, the Scottish Conservatives yesterday issued a plea to voters to help them turn a difficult night for the SNP into a disastrous one.

The party is largely focused on a dozen seats across Scotland where it is in a straight fight with the SNP.

Latest polling suggests that most of these seats are extremely tight, leading to fears among Conservatives that votes for any of the other pro-Union parties in these battlegrounds could result in a Nationalist MP taking their seat in the House of Commons.

In the second part of a series looking at these key battlegrounds, our Scottish Political Editor MICHAEL BLACKLEY assesses four constituencies in the south of Scotland where issues such as the constitution, taxes, roads and rural affairs have dominated and could prove pivotal.

DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY

Alister Jack, right, is quitting and John Cooper, left, will try to take Tory baton

Many people in Dumfries and Galloway feel like they are living in the forgotten corner of Scotland, far from the attention of SNP ministers in Edinburgh.

The problem was summed up when Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon attended an event in Newton Stewart where she was given a presentation about designating Galloway Forest Park as a national park and confessed that she didnt know the area was so rural.

It firmed up the view among some of those in the audience that this is an area which has been neglected for too long by the Central Belt-focused SNP Government.

One of the key issues causing anger in recent years has been the failure to upgrade a series of crucial roads.

The A75 runs right through the constituency and also links Scotland to the north of England and Northern Ireland via the Cairnryan ferry.

But journeys the length of it from Dumfries to Stranraer are regularly heavily interrupted by delays caused by accidents, overturned lorries or just the sheer volume of traffic.

Calls for upgrades to the A75 to address pinch points and speed up journey times have been considered by the SNP Government for years but never delivered. But the UK Government has now designated it as a key road of UK-wide importance following its Union Connectivity Review and has committed 8million of funding for a feasibility study looking at improvements.

SNP ministers were initially resistant to any intervention from UK ministers to address pinch points because road upgrades are devolved  but in more recent months they have entered more productive discussions.

Similar concerns are also raised about inaction on other problem roads in the surrounding area, including the A77.

Key industries in the area include farming, fishing and forestry  and in each of these sectors there is a concern about policies coming from Holyrood and cuts to key budgets.

In common with other rural areas, recruitment is an issue for hospitals, GP surgeries and other public services, leading to even greater problems with treatment delays and difficulties securing appointments.

The problems are exacerbated by the SNP forcing people earning more than 28,850 to pay the highest taxes in the UK. Some living in the constituency work across the Border in places such as Carlisle, and have to pay more tax than their work colleagues.

Since 2017, the constituency has been represented by Alister Jack, who arrived late to politics but quickly gained a good reputation and was first handed the role of Scottish Secretary when Boris Johnson became Prime Minister in 2019.

After a low-key start in the role, Mr Jack grew in confidence and latterly gained widespread credit for standing up to the SNP on a series of major issues.

He used section 35 powers to stop the SNPs gender reforms from gaining Royal Assent and stood up for cross-Border trade by ruling that a standalone deposit return scheme could not gain an exemption from UK Internal Market rules unless it eventually became part of a UK-wide scheme.

Mr Jack has announced his decision to stand down at the election but the Tory candidate is one of his trusted special advisers  John Cooper, who previously worked for newspapers including the Scottish Daily Mail. He also latterly edited the Wigtownshire Free Press, where he once worked as a trainee reporter 40 years ago.

The SNP heavily targeted the seat in 2019 and saw its vote share soar by 8.2 per cent, but Mr Jack retained it with a slender majority of 1,805.

While the SNP has not appeared to throw resources at the seat this year, it could still win if the Labour vote rises.

However, the Conservatives have been making clear to voters that Labour won fewer than one in ten of the votes in 2019 and has little realistic chance of victory  meaning votes for the party could let in the SNP.

 2019 winner: Alister Jack (Conservative)

 2019 majority: 1,805

 Key battle: John Cooper (Con) v Tracey Little (SNP)

Critical condition of healthcare is proving key campaign issue

BERWICKSHIRE, ROXBURGH & SELKIRK

The threat to local hospitals is proving a key issue on the campaign trail in Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk.

John Lamont has represented Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk for 17 years

NHS Borders has said it may soon close the 92 community hospital beds in Kelso, Duns, Hawick and Peebles, causing major concern locally.

John Lamont, pictured, who has represented the area for 17 years  first in the Scottish parliament and then at Westminster since 2017  had been pounding the streets to gain thousands of signatures for a petition to stop closures before the election was called.

He is also fully aware of constituents having to travel to England for hospital treatment, or growing frustrated at near neighbours having better access to a GP.

The SNPs failure to upgrade the A75 and A77 roads has also rankled with people and the votes of motorists are key.

Other pro-Union parties secured tiny shares of the vote in 2019  8 per cent for the Lib Dems and just 5 per cent for Labour  meaning a straight fight between Mr Lamont and the SNPs David Wilson, who aims to turf a Tory.

The former hospitality worker has also focused on his efforts to challenge the career politicians in government and opposition.

 2019 winner: John Lamont (Con)

 2019 majority: 5,148

 Key battle: Lamont v David Wilson (SNP)

David Mundell won 46 per cent of the vote in the 2019 general election

Tories warn Labour votes may help Nationalists snatch victory

DUMFRIESSHIRE, CLYDESSDALE AND TWEEDDALE

Tory David Mundell has regularly been on the SNPs hit list when it comes to target seats, having represented the constituency since 2005.

The former Scottish Secretary has campaigned on issues ranging from potholes and upgrading roads to healthcare services.

In the 2019 general election, Mr Mundell, pictured, won 46 per cent of the vote, with the SNP on 38 per cent and Labour third with 8.5 per cent.

A Norstat poll carried out last week put the Conservatives on 27 per cent and the SNP on 23 per cent - but it also suggested that the Labour vote has increased to 24 per cent.

The figures have caused some alarm among Tory strategists, with activists now stepping up activity and making clear that votes for Labour could lead to the SNP snatching the seat.

 2019 winner: David Mundell (Con)

 2019 majority:3,781

 Key battle: Mundell v Kim Marshall (SNP)

Conservatives and SNP fight to see who will be top of the cops

AYR, CARRICK AND CUMNOCK

Martin Dowey is leader of South Ayrshire Council

While vast swathes of southern Scotland are now blue, Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock remains a rare yellow outpost where the SNP have clung on.

The Tory party believes that it is one of half a dozen seats it can win from the SNP.

It has become something of a swing seat, having been won by the SNPs Corri Wilson in 2015 before switching to Tory Bill Grant in 2017 and then back to the SNPs Allan Dorans, who entered politics in 2019 at the age of 64.

Labour have also been resurgent in the seat, and the split pro-Union vote will give Mr Dorans, an ex-Met detective inspector, confidence he can hold it.

The Tories believe they are the closest rival to the SNP because of the past general election results and also recent local elections.

In the September 2023 Girvan and South Carrick by-election, the Tories beat the SNP by 537 votes. The regional list vote for south of Scotland in the 2021 Scottish parliament had the Tories in second on 33.5 per cent, behind the SNP on 37.6 per cent.

 2019 winner: Allan Dorans(SNP)

 2019 majority: 2,329

 Key battle: Dorans v Martin Dowey (Con)
QUESTION: When did black become de rigueur for funerals?

Black was the colour for mourning dress dating back to the Roman Empire, when the toga pulla, made of dark-coloured wool, was worn. However, in Britain, white or brown was worn by commoners. Black or purple was reserved for the nobility.

There were two factors that set black apart; its cost and sumptuary laws. To achieve black or purple hues required multiple rounds of costly dyeing, using the red roots of madder and the blue leaves of woad. Sumptuary laws imposed a fine on those attempting to copy the fashion choices of the nobility.

For the nobility, funeral garb was an expression of both wealth and fashion. After the deaths of her father-in-law, mother and first husband, Francis II of France between July 1559 and December 1560, Mary, Queen of Scots wore a form of mourning called en deuil blanc, involving a white pleated cambric veil.

By the Georgian era, sumptuary laws were abolished and wealthy commoners began to wear black as a status symbol.

Black became customary in the West in all classes thanks to Queen Victoria. When her husband Prince Albert died in 1861, she wore black clothing for the remaining 40 years of her life.

Corinne Jackson, Liverpool

After the deaths of her father-in-law, mother and first husband, Francis II of France between July 1559 and December 1560, Mary, Queen of Scots wore a form of mourning called en deuil blanc, involving a white pleated cambric veil

By the Georgian era, sumptuary laws were abolished and wealthy commoners began to wear black as a status symbol. Pictured: Mary Queen of Scots circa 1570

QUESTION: How involved were the Mafia in the American music industry?

The Mafia had a hand in various aspects of the music industry but never gained any particular control of major record companies. From the 1920s, the Mafia owned or controlled many nightclubs and venues where artists performed, especially in cities like New York.

In the 1940s, over two thirds of all record sales were aimed at the jukebox industry. These proved a perfect way to launder money. It is said the Mob accountant Meyer Lansky controlled 'every Wurlitzer jukebox in the New York area' through the Emby Distributing Co.

However, the figure most often connected to both pop music and organised crime was the impresario Morris Levy.

Levy founded the legendary Birdland jazz club, regularly hosting names like Charlie Parker and Count Basie. He owned a record-pressing factory and the Strawberries Records & Tapes stores but soon recognised that the real money was to be made in music publishing.

To that end, he founded Roulette Records and various minor labels, producing a mix of pop, R'n'B and jazz. He became notorious for hiding profits or falsely claiming writing credits while allegedly laundering money for New York's Genovese crime family.

One of his 'victims' was Tommy James of Tommy James and the Shondells fame, who had major hits with the songs Mony Mony and I Think We're Alone Now. James, in his book Me, The Mob, And The Music, estimated that Levy had fiddled him out of $40 million in royalties. He accused Levy of strong-arming artists into terrible contracts, buying up the rights to old hits and suing anyone who infringed on his copyright.

Morris Levy's career came to an end in 1988 when he was convicted for conspiring to extort John LaMonte, a Philadelphia-area record distributor, and sentenced to ten years in jail. Bail was set at $3 million. Levy lost his appeal in 1990 and died before he could go to prison.

Jack Cox, Morecambe, Lancs

It is said the Mob accountant Meyer Lansky (above) controlled 'every Wurlitzer jukebox in the New York area' through the Emby Distributing Co

QUESTION: Were plebs able to reach the higher echelons of Roman society?

There were three principal classes in Roman society: the patricians (aristocrats and elites), the plebeians (free common citizens) and the slaves (individuals without rights).

There were routes for a plebeian to enter the patrician class. A plebeian could be adopted into a patrician family if there were no male heirs. The Roman law of succession recognised a heres necessarius, a necessary heir, usually the eldest son, who would inherit the bulk of the estate. A patrician would adopt a son, often his own with one of his slaves, or from one of his favoured plebeian clients, to continue his legacy.

Under the Empire, a plebeian could also be ennobled by imperial decree (per rescriptum principis). This might happen when a city senate had too few members.

Plebeians could also reach high levels in Roman society without promotion to the patrician class. Prominent plebeian families regularly held the Consulship and were influential in the Senate. For example, Gaius Marius was a successful military leader and a plebeian who became a consul seven times. Cicero was a plebeian who rose to become a consul and one of Rome's greatest orators and statesmen.

Mr C. Greenwood, Solihull, West Midlands
The US government has paused the inspections of avocado and mango shipments after two Agriculture Department employees were attacked in Mexico.

The American workers were assaulted and held against their will, while they were inspecting avocados in the Michoacan municipality of Paracho on Saturday.

According to local reports, the workers were on their way to work when they were violently attacked on the street by protesters in Aranza.

They are no longer being held hostage, according to ambassador Ken Salazar - but as a result, the movement of avocados into the US will be delayed.

No one has been arrested for the assault.

A farmer loads fruit boxes with avocados onto a truck at an orchard in the municipality of Uruapan, Michoacan State, Mexico (stock image)

The United States government has halted inspections of avocado and mango shipments from Michoacan, Mexico after two employees with United States Agriculture Department were assaulted and temporarily held by assailants this weekend

A man works at an avocado orchard in Santa Ana Zirosto, a town in the western Mexico state of Michoacan - the only state permitted to export avocados to the United States

The employees work for the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Because the US also grows avocados, inspectors work in Mexico to ensure exported avocados don't carry diseases that could hurt U.S. crops.

'To guarantee the safety of our agricultural inspection teams, APHIS has suspended the avocado and mango inspections in Michoacan until these security problems have been resolved,' Salazar said.

Michoacan is Mexico's biggest exporter of avocados.

The country exports avocados to at least 34 countries. However, the states of Michoacan and Jalisco are the only one that are allowed to send avocados to Canada, Japan and the United States.

The suspension of inspections will not affect the operations at other Mexican states, according to Salazar.

Michoacan Governo Alfredo Ramirez told Mexico's Radio Formula Tuesday that the inspectors had been stopped in a protest by residents of Aranza.

He downplayed the situation, suggesting they were never at risk. He said that he got in touch with the U.S. Embassy the following day and that state forces were providing security for the state's avocado producers and packers.

Local producers stand by sacks with freshly harvested avocados at a market in Tenancingo de Degollado, Mexico. The avocado industry generated $3.2 billion for the Mexican economy in 2023

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said during his daily press briefing Wednesday that plans were being laid out to ensure the safety of inspectors.

The leftist leader added that Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena will be meeting with Salazar to resolve the issue.

'If they feel that there are threats to their inspectors, let us seek to protect them and help them, but do not take unilateral measures that do not correspond to the good relationship we have,' Lopez Obrador said.

Inspections were also suspended in 2022 when a U.S. Agriculture Department worker received death threats because they were investigating shipments of avocados that were grown in the central state of Puebla and were being brought over to Michoacan.

The suspension was lifted a week later after Mexican authorities guaranteed the safety of U.S. inspectors.

Juan Anaya, the director for Agricultural Market Consulting Group , told Radio Formula that the latest pause in inspections could have drastic effects on the economy as avocado exports generated $3.2 billion in profits in 2023. At least 300,000 people in Michoacan are employed at orchards and sites.

'This is going to cause serious problems,' Anaya said.
A slight chance of drizzle is possible along the coastlines of San Francisco and San Mateo counties Wednesday night into Thursday morning as the marine layer deepens due to an area of low pressure over California. Baron/Lynx

San Franciscos five-day stretch of fog-free weather is likely to come to an end Wednesday as moist Pacific winds blow back into the Bay Area.

A weak area of low pressure is expected to dip over California this week, reinvigorating the marine layer and possibly squeezing out some drizzle along the coast, especially in San Francisco and San Mateo counties Thursday morning. Drizzle is unlikely inland, but relative humidity will increase as a result of the Pacific air intrusion, marking an end to the elevated fire weather conditions and smoky skies.

Wildfire smoke may linger in the North Bay valleys Wednesday morning, especially in Napa Valley, where winds will struggle to mix out the dirty air. An air quality advisory is in effect for Sonoma, Napa and Solano counties Wednesday. In these counties, the air quality may be in the moderate to unhealthy for sensitive groups range, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District wrote in a news release.

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Cooler than normal high temperatures are forecast for the Bay Area on Wednesday and Thursday. Inland highs will be in the mid-70s to mid-80s, with mid-60s to mid-70s along the bay shoreline and upper 50s to low 60s at the coast.

Coastal water temperatures are about 3 degrees below normal and will contribute to the cool nighttime temperatures in the Bay Area through Friday. Lows will be in the upper 40s to mid-50s.

A warming trend is expected Friday into the weekend. Inland valleys are likely to surpass 90 degrees, and Vacaville and Antioch may flirt with triple digits. Downtown San Francisco should climb back toward 70 degrees Friday and Saturday.

Wednesday and Thursday breakdown

San Francisco: Patchy fog should return to the Richmond and Sunset districts Wednesday morning for the first time since last week. The fog and low clouds will be slow to clear, with persistent west winds blowing in cool, moist air. Highs may not crack 60 degrees west of Twin Peaks. Afternoon gusts of 20 to 30 mph are expected along the coast. More clearing is expected downtown, but highs will be below normal, in the low 60s.

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Thick low clouds will envelop the city Wednesday night, with drizzle possible around Twin Peaks, Mount Davidson and Diamond Heights on Thursday morning. Cloud cover will be even more extensive Thursday, and highs should remain in the 50s throughout much of the city. Lows will be in the low 50s.

North Bay: Cool, moist Pacific winds may bring cloud cover to Rohnert Park and Petaluma on Wednesday morning, but sunshine is expected to prevail throughout the entire North Bay by 10 a.m. Highs will be slightly below normal, in the low 60s in west Marin and Sausalito, the mid-70s in San Rafael, Mill Valley and Vallejo and the upper 70s to low 80s in Santa Rosa, Napa and Fairfield. Vacaville should reach the mid-80s. Lows will be in the upper 40s to mid-50s.

Gusts up to 30 mph are expected near the delta Wednesday evening. Overnight, a deep marine layer should extend into San Pablo Bay, resulting in favorable conditions for widespread cloud cover Thursday morning. Temperatures Thursday will drop about 3 to 5 degrees from Wednesdays highs, with morning cloud cover in the valleys parting for afternoon sunshine.

East Bay: Westerly winds should lead to improved air quality throughout the East Bay for the rest of the week. The cool, moist air blowing in from the Pacific will also raise the relative humidity, dampening the fire risk. Patchy fog may even make an appearance in Oakland, Berkeley and Richmond on Wednesday morning, with more extensive cloud cover expected Thursday morning.

Highs Wednesday and Thursday will be in the upper 60s in Oakland and Alameda, the low 70s in Richmond and Fremont and the mid- to upper 70s in Concord and the Tri-Valley. Westerly gusts up to 25 mph are expected throughout the region both evenings. Overnight, stratus clouds are expected to push toward the East Bay hills, but are unlikely to make it past the Caldecott Tunnel. Lows will be in the low to mid-50s.

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Pacific Coast and Peninsula: Fog should return to Daly City, Pacifica and Half Moon Bay on Wednesday morning and will probably stick around throughout the day. Highs will be chilly, in the upper 50s. Cloud cover will thicken in the evening, with a chance of drizzle overnight. Lows will be near 50. Similar conditions are likely Thursday.

Mostly sunny skies are expected along the Peninsula, with highs in the low to mid-60s in South San Francisco and San Bruno and the upper 60s in San Mateo and Redwood City. Gusts up to 25 mph are possible in the afternoon. Clouds will increase overnight, with lows in the low 50s. Skies will be cloudier Thursday and slow to clear, with temperatures about 5 degrees below normal, in the 60s throughout San Mateo County.

South Bay and Santa Cruz: Skies should remain mostly clear along the Santa Cruz coastline Wednesday, but a fog deck will begin to form just offshore before pushing in overnight. Thursdays highs will be in the low 70s near Monterey Bay and the mid-70s in Scotts Valley and Boulder Creek. Cooler, foggier weather is expected Thursday, especially near Monterey Bay.

Sunshine will prevail in the South Bay on Wednesday. Highs will be in the upper 60s in Palo Alto and Mountain View and the low 70s in Santa Clara, Cupertino, San Jose, Gilroy and Morgan Hill. A thick marine layer overnight is likely to support cloudy skies over San Francisco Bay and into the Santa Clara Valley on Thursday morning. Gradual clearing is expected throughout the day Thursday, with slightly cooler temperatures than Wednesday. Lows will be in the low 50s.
The death of a young Texas mother of four, who was found hanging from a dock, is being re-investigated as a homicide after it was originally deemed a suice.

League City resident Giselle Tapia-Salazar's body was discovered hanging from a rope near the boat docked in the city's marina that her and her boyfriend lived in on May 31.

After further inspection, investigators now believe the 30-year-old's body positioned in a way that made it look as though she killed herself, and the suspect staged her suicide. Police also have identified two persons of interests in the case.

Her body was discovered by her neighbor, Christian Allen, who found Tapia-Salazar half submerged in the water. He pointed out that one of her arms was twisted in an unusual position.

'Because of the position of her arm, we believe she probably passed away somewhere else,' League City Police Lieutenant Eric Cox told KHOU. 'Rigor mortis set in and then when she was moved, her arms stayed in that position.'

Giselle Tapia-Salazar's death was originally deemed a suicide after her body was discovered hanging from a rope near the boat her and her boyfriend lived in on May 31

After further inspection, investigators believe the 30-year-old's body positioned hanging from the dock in a way that made it look as though she killed herself, and the suspect staged her suicide

Allen told local CBS affiliate KHOU that he never believed the victim took her own life, and added that foul play was probably the cause.

'I didn't buy the whole suicide thing. I want them to catch them because my kids are here, and I don't want to live near a murderer,' Allen said.

The victim's sister, Esperanza Alegria, said she also did not believe her death was a suicide.

'I just want everyone to know my sister didn't do this to herself,' she told local ABC affiliate KTRK.

'She didn't commit suicide. We just want justice for her. We want whoever is responsible, who did this to my sister, we want them to get charged for what they did to her.'

The victim's body was discovered by her neighbor, Christian Allen, who found Tapia-Salazar half submerged in the water. He pointed out that one of her arms was twisted in an unusual position.

Tapia-Salazar was a mother-of-four and a GoFundMe has been made to cover funeral expenses and help raise money to support her surviving children

Nearby security cameras had been powered off or turned in a different direction during the time of the victim's death, according to police.

Tapia-Salazar's boyfriend, James Hart, vehemently denied being involved in his girlfriend's death. Police said Hart was devastated upon hearing the news, and initially refused to come out of their boat to see for himself.

'This is the worst thing that has ever happened to me,' he said.

'It feels like a nightmare you can't wake up from. I didn't have anything to do with it and I never would have. I loved Giselle more than anything in the world. We were together 24/7. I want justice for Giselle and for myself.'

The victim's sister, Esperanza Alegria, said she also did not believe her death was a suicide

Police also have identified two persons of interests in the case

The last time Hart said he saw his girlfriend was when she left their bedroom to use the bathroom, but she never returned.

A GoFundMe has been made by Tapia Salazar's brother, Nathan Paz, to cover funeral expenses and help raise money to support her children.

'Giselle was the most charismatic person you could ever meet, sharing a smile and making a friend of everyone she came across,' he wrote on the page.

'Giselle always looked for the best in people, even when they didn't deserve her kindness.'
Paradise has, over the years, had many depictions. Renaissance painters such as Tintoretto and Botticini imagined angels and bearded hunks perching on clouds. Flemish master Jan Brueghel the Elder (1568-1625) envisaged a forest glade with tame animals.

The Plains Of Heaven, by 19th-century English painter John Martin, shows an unspoilt plateau whose mountain lake is fed by a blue waterfall.

Four centuries earlier, Dutch oddball Hieronymus Bosch saw heaven as a tunnel rising to a source of light, like some vast concrete culvert in the sky.

In France the other day, I stumbled on another vision of Eden. After breakfast we had escaped the grime of Paris  a sorry place these days  and driven east for more than an hour.

The undulating countryside with its industrially farmed fields was pleasant enough on an overcast morning, yet it hardly made the soul sing.

Quentin Letts (pictured) enjoys a glass of champagne with lunch in France

A glass of Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut

Quentin's main course for lunch - roasted chicken fillet with champagne supreme sauce, asparagus and tarragon

We left the A4 autoroute and followed a 'route touristique du champagne'.

This made sense because I was trying Uber Bubbles, a new day trip in which an Uber car collects you from the French capital and whirrs you off to the Champagne-growing region for degustations and an excellent lunch.

At the late 18th-century Maison Belle Epoque, Epernay, we were greeted by a glass of Perrier-Jouet Blason Rose and the lightest, scrummiest cheese biscuits before a five-course lunch with further sluicings of brut and blanc de blancs.

In Reims we were given a tour of the astonishing G. H. Mumm cellars and then, in case we were still thirsty, a squirt of Mumm's Cordon Rouge fizz.

But first let me describe my vision of paradise. At this point in the day, by the way, I was completely sober. Scout's honour. After leaving the autoroute, our chauffeur Pascal swung the Tesla towards the village of Oeuilly.

It took us past a village church that had seen better days, its roof patched with corrugated iron.

Given the earlier, sad state of Paris, whose streets were full of camping refugees and whose tabacs reeked of skunk cannabis, I thought, 'Poor France is really struggling'.

At that point we crested a rise and everything changed. Before us, as if laid on a tablecloth, sat the Marne Valley, broad, fertile and shafted by sunlight.

Quentin with a glass of Mumm Champagne in his Uber Bubbles taxi

He stands in front of GH Mumm & Co in Reims, France

The spectacle could have been from a Disney film. The bucolic order, the sheer, fecund perfection of that wide and gentle landscape made one gasp.

The Marne Valley has the soft contours, almost, of the classic Champagne coupe or saucer glass, being broad enough to nestle in the palm of a hand. Welcome to the magic kingdom of bubbles.

What one noticed, standing there on the horizon, like Cortez gawping at the Pacific, was that the entire hillside seemed to be covered with vineyards.

Thousands upon thousands of rows of vines dotted every inch of that majestic valley.

They were as neat as the stitches left by an electric sewing machine. Patches showed where new vines had been planted to replace older stock, but the uniformity of drill and furrow was remarkable.

If this was paradise, it was one made by man at his most attentive. And yet, during World War I, the Marne Valley was a terrible killing ground, a place where man-made chaos ravaged the hillsides.

West of Epernay we passed a Great War cemetery; those regimented graves somehow echoed the precision of the fields of chardonnay, pinot noir and meunier vines  those being the three main varieties of grape that go into Champagne.

Janisson-Baradon, Patrick Boivin, Leclerc Briant, Locret Lachaud: as we entered pretty Epernay, every street offered a new Champagne house. They were testament to the perfect climate and soil conditions for grape-growing in this part of the world.

GH Mumm headquarters in Reims, France

The late 18th-century Maison Belle Epoque in Epernay

Quentin is greeted by a glass of Perrier-Jouet Blason Rose

The fields sit on sedimentary rock composed of chalk, marl and limestone, fast-draining yet able to retain enough water to sustain vines through dry spells.

The place in the world with the nearest conditions to Champagne is the south-east of England where, sure enough, sparkling wine is becoming a big industry, particularly since climate change made the Sussex and Kent weather more like that of the Champagne region.

But Uber Bubbles is not a geography field trip. It is about drink and food and pleasure in a world too often soured by political gripes.

'Bienvenue a Perrier-Jouet,' said Yannick Bouvet, manager of the Maison Belle Epoque, as he led us to a courtyard table dappled by June sunshine.

Monsieur Bouvet, 27, removed the cork from a bottle of Champagne with the effortless ease of a man who must open hundreds a week.

This 2015 Belle Epoque Champagne was decorated with Perrier-Jouet's historic Japanese anemone motif, and he proceeded to talk us through the characters of some of his wines: the 'light, refreshing brut, becoming spicier as it opens', the 'fruity and full rose, whose 15 per cent of red grapes gives it a strong finish', and the 'peachy, flowery, white fruits' of the blanc de blancs.

Could I tell the difference? Hic, of coursh!

Lunch was served: crab tartelette, marinated salmon with cucumber and almond cream, chicken fillet with Champagne sauce, then spring pavlova.

Oh, and a mignardise of financier pastry, so named because it was said to resemble a tiny bar of gold, though being markedly lighter.

Must have cost a fortune, you say. The Uber Bubbles day costs 200 euros (about 170) per car. You can fit four into the Tesla, so that would work out at just over 40 a head.

With Paris facing a bumper summer of tourism during the Olympic Games, Uber could be rushed off its wheels.

The 2015 Belle Epoque Champagne decorated with Perrier-Jouet's historic Japanese anemone motif

Letts: 'Could I tell the difference? Hic, of coursh!'

Taking our leave of the charming Yannick  or maybe two of him, given the amount of Perrier-Jouet I had by now hosed back  we made the short journey to Reims and the headquarters of Mumm, which Pascal told me I must not pronounce 'Mum' but 'Moom' to rhyme with 'room'.

The enormity of the factory attested to what an important industry Champagne is.

In 2022, France exported more than 325 million bottles of Champagne  almost a tenth of them to Britain.

Mumm's cellars, built mainly in the 19th century, run to more than 15 miles of cool, low-lit tunnels.

Without a guide you could become horribly lost and possibly disappear for ever, but it might be a light- headed demise: at every turn there are magnums and jeroboams of Mumm champagne standing upside down in wooden pupitres, or riddling racks.

Riddling is the term used to describe the loosening of yeast sediment.

With the bottles not quite vertical, and being regularly turned, the yeast sinks towards the cork, where it can be removed.

Most normal Champagne bottles are now riddled by machine but the bigger, more valuable bottles are still turned by hand.

Before we returned to the surface, we were shown a bottle of Mumm Cordon Rouge Stellar, designed to be drunk by astronauts. Without gravity, the usual bubbles reportedly acquire a mind of their own and have to be chased through the air.

I already felt I had been doing some of that at Perrier-Jouet.

In Reims we were given a tour of the astonishing G. H. Mumm cellars

Mumm's cellars, built mainly in the 19th century, run to more than 15 miles of cool, low-lit tunnels

Most normal Champagne bottles are now riddled by machine

Before we returned to the surface, we were shown a bottle of Mumm Cordon Rouge Stellar, designed to be drunk by astronauts

The bubbles in this bottle are larger and more stable, however, so can be enjoyed in space. One hesitates to think what the galactic constabulary would make of an astronaut drinking at the wheel of his or her rocket, but knocking back a glass of Champagne while looking down at the distant Earth sounds a wonderful experience.

Fizz on the final frontier. It's another concept, perhaps, of paradise.

Uber Bubbles will run on Fridays and Saturdays until August 17. For more information go to uber.com/newsroom/bubbles
A woman in one of my focus groups last week said that if she had nothing to go on but the leaflets that came through her door, and if these had no party logos, she would probably vote Conservative.

This, in fact, she had no intention of doing  which tells you something about the value of the manifestos that have consumed the interest of the political class over the past week.

Very occasionally, a policy promise will capture the public's imagination or go down so badly that it torpedoes the campaign of whoever proposed it. But, most of the time, policy platforms only serve to amplify whatever people thought of the parties already.

While people often claim to read all the manifestos before making up their minds (if you think politicians tell fibs, you should listen to the voters), in reality they will catch the odd snippet, which they will see through the prism of the views that they already hold.

This is amply demonstrated in my latest poll, where we asked respondents what they thought of various policies  but only told half of them which manifesto they had been taken from.

A woman in one of my focus groups last week said that if she had nothing to go on but the leaflets that came through her door, and if these had no party logos, she would probably vote Conservative (pictured: Rishi Sunak)

As the day of reckoning approaches, the Tories will be tempted to turn their fire on Labour and Keir Starmer (pictured)

In nearly every case, the policies were rated more popular (or less unpopular) when people weren't told which party was behind them.

For example, support for a new Help to Buy scheme and scrapping stamp duty for first-time buyers up to 425,000 rises by 15 points when you take the Conservative Party's name off it, and raising the income tax threshold to 20,000 is 23 points higher when people don't know it comes from Reform UK.

The effect applies to Labour and the Lib Dems, too. In other words, people's opinions of the policies depend on the parties as much as the other way round.

This is especially bad news for the Tories, since it reveals how little they can do to change their fortunes. I found that the average likelihood of those who voted for the Conservatives in 2019 turning out for the party again on July 4 had fallen again since last week, to just 37 out of 100.

Only 7 per cent of Conservative 2019 voters  let alone anyone else  say they are satisfied with the current Government.

Looking at those who say they are more likely than not to vote for a particular party, we find Labour well ahead on 43 per cent and Reform UK drawing level with the Tories on 18 per cent each.

As the day of reckoning approaches, the Tories will be tempted to turn their fire on Labour and Keir Starmer.

Voters will not take the Conservatives' word about anything, let alone the qualities of their opponents, but they already have plenty of doubts about the likely new regime.

Only one in three expects Labour to bring more stability and competence in government, lower NHS waiting times or improve public services.

Fewer than three in ten anticipate more jobs, opportunity and prosperity or more manageable living costs. And fewer than one in six thinks there will be stricter immigration controls or a tougher approach to crime.

Many have worries, including runaway spending, debt and  especially  tax. Rishi Sunak's claim of a 2,000 tax hike under Labour remains the one memorable point from the first televised debate, and few believe that any tax rises will be limited to what has already been declared.

Though Starmer has widened his personal lead over Sunak, still nearly half say they don't know who would do the better job as PM. In my groups, uncertain voters say he seems wishy-washy and vague about his plans.

Some also wonder about the fact that five years ago Starmer campaigned to put Jeremy Corbyn into No 10. Opinion was divided as to whether the Labour leader is more Left-wing than he now claims (which Labour-leaning voters are much more likely to think would be a good thing) or if he didn't support Corbyn as strongly as he said he did at the time.

(Maybe it would help if he talked about his father being a toolmaker. Just a thought.)

But these points seem unlikely to make much of a dent. I found that of those saying they would prefer a Labour government, only 37 per cent said they thought Starmer and his party would do a good job governing Britain.

A greater number  46 per cent  said Labour probably wouldn't do a good job, but they could hardly be worse than what we have now.

The Tories' final appeal to the country is to keep Labour's majority down to reasonable proportions and avoid giving Starmer a blank cheque.

Listening to voters in competitive seats around the country, I find that this resonates with some people, but they are torn. Among 2019 Tories who say they are unlikely to vote for the party this time, four in ten want there to be enough Conservatives left in Parliament to form a strong opposition and hold the government to account.

But fractionally more agree that the Tories 'need a huge defeat so they get the message'.
More than half of voters are against revaluing council tax bands, according to a new poll by Lord Ashcroft.

Labour has sown confusion over its plans for council tax  with senior party figures giving different answers when asked whether they will overhaul the system.

Council tax banding in England has not changed since 1991, and has been criticised for not reflecting how house prices have changed around the country.

But 52 per cent of voters believe revaluing council tax bands to base them on current property prices would just be an excuse to charge more, according to the Ashcroft research, shared exclusively with the Mail. Only 30 per cent think a revaluation would make council tax fairer.

With two weeks until the election, Lord Ashcrofts poll also gives Labour a 25-point lead, and puts the Tories and Reform UK neck-and-neck on 18 points.

Sir Keir Starmer continues to lead Rishi Sunak when voters were asked who would make the best prime minister, by 38 per cent to 17 per cent.

And 39 per cent believe the Labour leader would do a better job at running the economy, compared to 24 per cent who back the Prime Minister.

The poll, carried out from June 13 to 17, with a sample size of 5,187, also found almost half of voters who are dissatisfied with the current Tory Government have little faith in Labour.

Some 46 per cent said that Sir Keir and his party probably wont do a good job but they can hardly be worse than the Government we have now.

However the poll found that while Tory policies are popular, the party is not. Pledges such as the Help to Buy scheme, the triple-lock plus on pensions and reducing legal migration had more support from voters when the party proposing it was not named.

Lord Ashcroft, writing in the Mail, said that was especially bad news for the Tories, since it reveals how little they can do to change their fortunes.

He writes: As the day of reckoning approaches the Tories will be tempted to turn their fire on Labour and Keir Starmer.

Voters will not take the Conservatives word about anything, let alone the qualities of their opponents, but they already have plenty of doubts about the likely new regime.

Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) continues to lead Rishi Sunak when voters were asked who would make the best prime minister, by 38 per cent to 17 per cent

Rishi Sunak is given a tour of a nuclear power facility in Sizewell on June 19

Lord Ashcroft (pictured) said that was especially bad news for the Tories, since it reveals how little they can do to change their fortunes'

Only one in three expect Labour to bring more stability and competence in government, lower NHS waiting times or improved public services; fewer than three in ten anticipate more jobs, opportunity and prosperity or more manageable living costs; and fewer than one in six think there will be stricter immigration controls or a tougher approach to crime.

Among voters who backed the Tories in 2019 but say they are unlikely to vote for the party this time, 41 per cent say the Conservatives need a huge defeat so they get the message.

But 40 per cent say that if Labour are going to win, they want there to be enough Conservative MPs left to form a strong Opposition and hold the new government to account.

However, 44 per cent of voters are worried that a Labour government might spend too much and get Britain into debt and 40 per cent fear they might put up taxes.

Sir Keirs plan to charge private schools 20 per cent VAT is popular among voters, with only 27 per cent saying it will punish aspirational families and create extra pressure on state schools.

The raid on private school fees is one of a handful of taxes Labour has said it will raise to pay for its spending plans.

But the party has been in a muddle over its plans for council tax, with different shadow ministers making different promises over recent days.

Rachel Reeves said Labour was not planning to reform council tax in an interview with Sky News, but did not completely rule it out. The Shadow Chancellor also told the BBC that she was not in the business of tinkering with tax rates and said no when she was asked if she would re-evaluate council tax bands.

But on Tuesday, Sir Keir refused to rule out council tax band revaluation. He said he would not write the budgets for the next five years during a radio phone-in on LBC, but claimed none of our plans require a tax rise.

Rachel Reeves (pictured) said Labour was not planning to reform council tax

But on Tuesday, Sir Keir (pictured) refused to rule out council tax band revaluation

The Mail revealed that a bombshell dossier put forward by an influential group of Labour MPs  including Sir Keir  proposed reforming council tax to make it fairer.

The plan by the Tribune group of Opposition MPs was one of six tax raids suggested to raise 60 billion.

A party spokesman said the submission was rejected at an early stage in the manifesto process.
Police have been called to a street close to the UK's GCHQ spy centre after reports of homes and vehicles being 'shot at'.

Officers flooded the St Paul's area of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, shortly after 7.20pm on Wednesday night, having been informed that the occupants of a vehicle had shot at addresses and parked vehicles on Hudson Street.

Gloucestershire Police say they will maintain a heavy police presence in the area while enquiries take place to establish the identity of those responsible.

No injuries have been reported and no arrests have been made at this time.

The force is keen to speak to residents in the area who may have may have CCTV or doorbell footage or witnessed suspicious activity.

Police have flooded the St Paul's area of Cheltenham tonight after reports of people in a vehicle shooting at houses and parked cars

Police have responded to reports that the occupants of a vehicle had shot at addresses and parked vehicles on Hudson Street (pictured)

Cheltenham, which has a population of 18,900, is best known for hosting the annual Cheltenham Horse Racing Festival every March, which sees as many as 70,000 racing fans descend on the town for the four-day event.

The town also houses the government's top-secret intelligence, security and cyber agency GCHQ in the Benhall area of the town.

A Gloucestershire Police spokesperson said: 'We were called to Hudson Street shortly after 7.20pm with a report that the occupants of a vehicle had shot at addresses and parked vehicles.

'No injuries have been reported and no arrests have been made at this time.

'There is a large police presence in the area while enquiries take place to establish the identity of those responsible.

'Officers are keen to hear from anyone who lives in the area and may have CCTV or doorbell footage or witnessed suspicious activity.

'Anyone with information on what took place can provide this by completing the following online form and quoting incident 429 of 19 June.'
To Manchester's Gay Village for the manifesto launch of the Workers Party of Great Britain. Few of George Galloway's Lancashire mosque elders ventured into such a decadent part of town. Silly old them. They missed a cracker.

Mr Galloway, the party's supreme leader, made a trenchant, note-free speech of such effortless breadth that it seemed we might be in for a full Fidel (Cuba's late president Castro could talk for four-and-a-half hours).

Discussion ranged from military war, which we were told to expect by December if Sir Keir Starmer became PM, to various references to backsides.

We also heard demands for a referendum on the 'Ruritanian' monarchy, with Mr Galloway backing Princess Anne to be the country's first president.

Mr Galloway, the party's supreme leader, made a trenchant, note-free speech of such effortless breadth that it seemed we might be in for a full Fidel ( Cuba 's late president Castro could talk for four-and-a-half hours)

Discussion ranged from military war, which we were told to expect by December if Sir Keir Starmer became PM, to various references to backsides

A man films on a mobile phone as Leader of the Workers Party of Britain George Galloway speaks during his party's manifesto launch at the Voco hotel

Having met the princess, the Oliver Cromwell of Rochdale adjudged that she came up to scratch.

Oh, and Britain needed a public laundry service. This, he noted, was a policy taken from the 1945 manifesto of a certain C.R. Attlee. It doesn't bear thinking how many socks a nationalised launderette might mislay.

We were on the ninth floor of a new hotel. If attendance was slight, it was possibly because a fire alarm had just cleared the building. Blithely arriving 15 minutes late, Mr Galloway called his manifesto 'a very beautiful document'.

It is certainly the only one so far to call for retirement at 60, for the governor of the Bank of England to be a proletariat and for a cull of Royal Navy admirals.

Palestine is Mr Galloway's main thrust, but he had other aces up the sleeve of (dare one say?) his slightly under-laundered looking jacket: no more professional politicians to sit in the House of Lords; a referendum on Net Zero; obliteration of the Arts Council in its current form. Much more of that sort of thing and he could sail into the candidates' book at the Drones Club.

Sunak and Starmer were gutless shrivellers who did not deserve to be PM, he declared, repeating the old line that they were two cheeks on the same bottom.

The only party leader 'saying something with zeal and speaking in human' was Nigel Farage, but Farage was just 'the third cheek' on that gluteus maximus (anatomy not a Galloway strong point) because he was a former City worker who was in bed with Donald Trump.

Palestine is Mr Galloway's main thrust, but he had other aces up the sleeve of (dare one say?) his slightly under-laundered looking jacket: no more professional politicians to sit in the House of Lords

Mr Galloway complained that unlike Farage he had not been invited to join 'the Seven Dwarfs' TV debate featuring the likes of Penny Mordaunt, Angela Rayner and the little Greens

'If anyone is going to be leader of the opposition to Sir Keir Starmer, then that should be me,' cried Mr Galloway. Lest anyone thought he was joking, he repeated it: 'That should be me!'

Beside him his much younger wife Gayatri closed her eyes and nodded, like someone chewing a goodish custard tart. During one mauve passage a member of the audience shouted an evangelical 'Yes!'

The Workers' Party was 'the spirit of Labour's past' and it possessed 'some of the best parliamentary candidates in the land', averred Mr Galloway, 69, who wore his trilby throughout the event.

A repeated theme was that our culture had 'lost its religion'. He did not believe 'the woke armies of the West' could defeat more ruthless forces such as North Korea, China and Russia. He complained that, since Blairism, British patriotism was a dirty word and 'people don't even know if they're men or women'.

Blithely arriving 15 minutes late, Mr Galloway called his manifesto 'a very beautiful document'

Sunak and Starmer were gutless shrivellers who did not deserve to be PM, he declared, repeating the old line that they were two cheeks on the same bottom

He is a not unTrumpian performer: boasts tripping from his tongue amid little shrugs. Media outlets were attacked. The 'deep-state' BBC had been 'working for Keir Starmer for years in everything they do' and he accused Sky News of giving Mr Farage endless publicity.

Was there a hint of demagogue-envy at one point?

Mr Galloway complained that unlike Farage he had not been invited to join 'the Seven Dwarfs' TV debate featuring the likes of Penny Mordaunt, Angela Rayner and the little Greens.

'The Welsh nationalists were in it, with a fellow whose name I can't even pronounce!' Why was the Workers' Party not asked to join that mass debate? 'Because,' smouldered Mr Galloway, 'I'd wipe the floor with them.'
Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves appeared to be at odds over their definition of 'working people' yesterday as they continued to face questions about tax rises.

The Labour leader on Tuesday defined the group as those who do not have the savings to get them through a crisis at home.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt immediately accused him of letting slip 'Labour's true plans to raise taxes across the board'.

But yesterday, Shadow Chancellor Ms Reeves said the definition of working people included both pensioners and savers. She said Sir Keir had been citing just 'one example'.

Labour's manifesto includes a pledge to 'not increase taxes on working people' but the party had not, until Sir Keir's radio interview, defined what that meant.

Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves appeared to be at odds over their definition of 'working people' yesterday as they continued to face questions about tax rises

The Labour leader on Tuesday defined the group as those who do not have the savings to get them through a crisis at home

While the party has ruled out increasing income tax, National Insurance or VAT if it wins power, it has refused to rule out a number of other tax rises.

During an interview on LBC, Sir Keir was asked what he meant by working people.

'People who earn their living, rely on our [public] services and don't really have the ability to write a cheque when they get into trouble,' he replied.

Asked if Sir Keir meant that anyone with savings was not a working person, Ms Reeves told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'No, working people are people who get their income from going out to work every day, and also pensioners who have worked all their lives and are now in retirement, drawing down on their pensions.'

Pressed on whether that included those who had put money aside, she acknowledged that 'many working people do have savings'.

During an interview on LBC, Sir Keir was asked what he meant by working people. 'People who earn their living, rely on our [public] services and don't really have the ability to write a cheque when they get into trouble,' he replied

A Labour Party leaflet is delivered to a an address with Sir Keir Starmers pledges next to a red rose which is a symbol of the Labour Party

Asked who was excluded from Labour's definition of working people, she cited non-doms and private equity bosses to Sky News.

Sir Keir later backtracked, telling reporters yesterday that working people did have savings.

He insisted: 'I come within my own definition of a working person, which is earning my living, paying my taxes and knowing what it means to save money, and when you do save money, not wanting to use that money to get out of a cost-of-living crisis which is of the Government's making.'

Ms Reeves also faced questions about Labour's plans to raise NHS spending by less than former Tory chancellor George Osborne had during austerity.

Asked by the BBC how she could promise change when the health budget would increase by 1.1 per cent compared with 1.4 per cent under Mr Osborne, Ms Reeves said Labour's manifesto was focusing on growth.

She also refused to rule out tax rises on pensions and capital gains, as well as reforms to inheritance tax.
This is the longest day of the year  officially, when the sun sets tonight in London at nine minutes to ten: 21:51 BST.

Of course it will be a good deal later, this far north, in the Outer Hebrides, when one can still read by daylight after 11pm.

And later still in Shetland, far further north than most of us appreciate as it is seldom properly placed on a Scottish map.

On June 21, 2018, for instance, the Shetland sun rose at 03.38 and duly set at 22.34, meaning the longest day of the year was 18 hours, 55 minutes and 30 seconds long.

Belfast younglings used gleefully to talk of summers white nights, all the better for provocation of troops and the police.

The mysterious Callanish standing stones are one of the most engaging ancient monuments in Britain

Shetlanders have a warmer word for this season, the simmerdim.

But, amidst a shrieky general election, with much wild rhetoric, hyped opinion polls and endless televised debates with their over-rehearsed soundbites, the midsummer solstice puts much in perspective.

Its actually, given the fact the planet takes not quite 365 days to complete its annual orbit of the sun, a bit of a moveable feast, falling variously from June 20 to 22.

The midsummer solstice has in fact nothing to do with the sun.

It is the Earth completing the tilt it began at the vernal equinox, three months ago.

And, of course, down under, this is their midwinter solstice, as they in turn are tilted to the chilliest angle of things.

Admittedly, given our woeful summer so far  like most Scots, I am still dressed as if for Reykjavik in February  you might struggle to tell the difference.

For our Celtic forebears, the midsummer solstice was a sort of wake-up call: get something in the ground now, because  as the days start to shorten, and temperatures to cool, if you have not a well-stocked barn by winter you are unlikely to see the spring.

In Ireland, they still celebrate midsummer with bonfires and magical plants and invocations of St Brighid.

Thanks to the Reformation, and  I suspect  our keen sense of the ridiculous, Scots are rather less given to circling their homes, widdershins, with a flaming torch or pegging honeysuckle over the porch.

But our distant ancestors generously left us much of the technology by which the priests and academics of the time studied the heavens, plotted the phases of the Moon and could, with startling accuracy, predict anything from the next spring tide or (in that age) a total and terrifying solar eclipse.

Not that, say, the Standing Stones of Callanish or the Ring of Brodgar are quite as portable as the Oxford Set of Mathematical Instruments.

Which tins, in some newsagents window come August, and 40 years after I left school, can still trigger gloomy apprehension.

But the Callanish Stones are the most important ancient monument in Lewis and one of the most engaging  if mysterious  in all Britain.

There are quite a few stone circles around the village, and more tumbled examples in the wider district, but the famous one  Callanish I  is atop a ridge.

These are old, old megaliths. They had stood for thousands of years, belichened and venerable, when some new-money type, about 200 AD, threw up the Doune Carloway broch a little up the coast.

The Callanish I stones are ranged in the outline of a Celtic cross  though they predate Christianity by millennia  and were erected so long ago that, as pollen-samples garnered from their base four decades ago attest, western Lewis then enjoyed a climate like the south of France.

And thats before we even try to figure out how, in the age before the wheel, folk managed to put these enormous stones up in the first place.

Founded so securely that they stand to this day. And aligned so accurately that, as Alexander Thom first pointed out in 1933, when viewed in exact line from a spot on Cnoc an Tursa, a knoll immediately south of the complex, the pillars of the south row run true through the tallest central megalith from north to south.

The engineers of Callanish I somehow managed this before the invention of the compass, and so long ago that the star we now call Polaris  the Pole Star  was nowhere near the North Celestial Pole.

Our planets axis of rotation has over the centuries shifted in relation to the night sky, you see. Its called the precession of the equinoxes, if you want a good line to drop at your next kitchen-supper.

No wonder Callanish, in its day, was so famous that the Greek historian Herodotus, who was born nearly five centuries before Christ, recorded the visit of one Abaros, a philosopher of the Winged Temple of the Northern Isles, to Greece.

And that Abaros took the time to look up Pythagoras.

Whose celebrated theorem on the square root of the hypotenuse, doubtless discussed over the ouzo, would have been handy for Callanish architects, the only conceivable candidate in all Europe for that Winged Temple.

But, oddly, the Callanish Stones have very little place in modern Lewis lore  and, by modern, I mean since the 16th century.

They were known as the False Men  evildoers presumably turned to stone  and, until 1851, when on the orders of a new laird five feet of accumulated peat was cleared, they werent that special to look at.

It was only in the Seventies, when two spirited incomers  Gerald and Margaret Ponting  began to make serious, serious study of the Callanish Stones that there was real advance in scholarship.

The Pontings established, convincingly, that the Stones were designed primarily as a theatre for the Major Lunar Standstill, a dramatic event that occurs every 18.61 years. It was last celebrated in 2006, another is imminent, and is quite the spectacle.

The very full Moon rises out of the Pairc hills to the east  the ridge, resembling a recumbent woman, seems to give birth to it  and appears, low and enormous, atop Cnoc an Tursa.

In recent decades, though, Callanish  for our young people  has become the place to be every midsummer night, if only to enjoy the antics of dippy-hippie strangers who take it far too seriously.

Flowers are garlanded; Tibetan instruments lugubriously sounded. People in cloaks chant incantations; megaliths are embraced and even snogged.

Though, in a small mercy, our visitors have yet to erect a Wicker Man, and the fey souls are infinitely preferable to the Just Stop Oil deadheads who yesterday defaced Stonehenge.

In the spirit, then, of Hebridean hospitality, itd be rude to pull out your learned volumes and point out that Callanish has nothing to do with the midsummer solstice.
New details about a grisly home invasion in which the ex-wife of a Texas billionaire and her artist boyfriend were injected with a substance they were told was a deadly virus have emerged, as a fourth man involved in the crime pleaded guilty this week.

Stefan Alexandru Barabas, 38, admitted in court to entering socialite Anne Bass' Connecticut home and holding her and her boyfriend, artist Julian Lethbridge, for ransom back in 2007.

Prosecutors say Barabas and his co-conspirators - Emanuel Nicolescu, Alexandru Lucian Nicolescu and Michael Kennedy - wore masks, brandished knives and fake guns and bound and blindfolded Bass and Lethbridge just before midnight on April 15, 2007.

They then injected the two with a substance they claimed was a 'deadly virus,' saying they would withhold the antidote unless Bass - a known philanthropist and the ex-wife of Texas oil magnate Sid Bass - paid the suspects $8.5million, according to the Department of Justice.

Stefan Alexandru Barabas, 38, pleaded guilty to participating in a grisly home invasion in 2007

The men told their victims they only 20 hours to produce the cash - holding them hostage for more than five hours while Bass' three-year-old grandson slept in a separate bedroom, the Hartford Courant reports.

Lethbridge tried to tell the men that Bass did not keep that much money inside the house, and that she would have to contact associates out of state to get the money.

At one point, the assailants considered transporting one or both of the victims to New York to get the influx of cash, according to an arrest warrant.

Eventually, though, the men became concerned with the presence of the child inside the house, the health of their victims and their apparent inability to immediately obtain the money.

They then gave the victims a beverage they claimed was the antidote - but was actually sleeping pills.

As the victims dozed off, the assailants stole Bass' Jeep Cherokee and drove away.

Her vehicle was found the next day outside of a Home Depot in New Rochelle, New York, while Bass and Lethbridge were treated at a nearby hospital - and discovered the substance they were injected with was harmless.

An accordion case also washed ashore in Queens, New York six days after the home invasion - containing a stun gun, knife, Airsoft gun, crowbar, syringes, sleeping pills, gloves and a phone card with the victims' address inside.

Barabas and three co-defendants held Anne Bass and her boyfriend Julian Lethbridge for ransom inside Bass' sprawling Connecticut home

For three years, the investigation into the horrific crime was stalled.

Then, in 2010, an investigator with the Connecticut State Police connected a partial Pennsylvania license plate seen by a witness near the victim's sprawling estate, to a car owned by Michael Kennedy - who had once shared an apartment with Emmanuel Nicolescu, a former butler at the Bass estate.

The investigator would go on to discover that data for a cell tower near the New Rochelle Home Depot, where the truck was found, contained a call by a number registered to Emmanuel.

Investigators from the State Police and the FBI then gathered Emmanuel's DNA and found it partially matched a sample from the Jeep's steering wheel.

The investigation then started to unravel when investigators realized Kennedy's father was a professional accordion player, and a witness identified a knife in the accordion case as a gift given to Emmanuel from his father-in-law.

Prosecutors now say Barabas' co-conspirators planned the home invasion - which included research and creating a list of supplies needed, such as two-way radios, stun guns and imitation pistols.

Barabas and the Nicolescus then carried out the crime, while Kennedy acted as the driver.

The four men held the victims for five hours inside the sprawling estate, while Bass' three-year-old grandson slept in another room

Emanuel Nicolescu was ultimately arrested in 2011 in Illinois, and was found guilty by a jury months later.

Meanwhile, Kennedy voluntarily returned to the US from Romania in 2012 and Alexandru Nicolesco was arrested in 2013 in the United Kingdom. They both pleaded guilty to their role in the home invasion.

Barabas, though, had been a fugitive up until his arrest in Hungary in August 2022.

He now faces between 72 months to 84 months behind bars for conspiracy to interfere with commerce by extortion, under a plea deal.

But if that plea deal is not accepted by a judge, Barabas could be in jail for up to 20 years.

He is now being detained, as he awaits sentencing on September 11.
A candidate for Nigel Farages Reform UK posted a vile online rant branding the Royals benefit scroungers.

The party is facing calls to axe Jo Hart after her 2022 Facebook post about the late Queen and other Royals which included messages such as f*** the Royals and make Lizzy the last.

The comments, made during the 2022 Platinum Jubilee celebrations, are at odds with Mr Farage, who is a staunch monarchist.

But Reform UK last night refused to condemn the comments or take any action against its candidate.

She is standing in the same key Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat where Labour has had to suspend its candidate for sharing pro-Russian material online.

Reforms Jo Hart posted a vicious attack on the Royals

Her Facebook post from June 2022, during the four-day bank holiday weekend to mark the Queen becoming the first British monarch to reign for 70 years, claimed millions around the UK are struggling to eat, keep warm and keep the lights on.

The rant, which Ms Hart claimed was a shared post, said: But then the Jubilee comes along, for our glorious monarch who has never experienced the kind of hardship having to choose between heating or food, she doesnt have to worry about keeping the lights on or not, in fact, the many MANY millions that have been p***ed away on the jubilee celebrations havent even come from her pocket, but from the public purse.

This HUGELY WASTEFUL light show at the palace is nothing but a slap in the face to all of us common folk who are struggling with energy bills right now!

It went on to make a series of legally dubious allegations about the Royal Familys support for people involved in abuse and claiming people have been paying the price for decades. It concluded: So this weekend when youre cracking out the bunting and celebrating the jubilee, just use that massively washed brain of yours and think instead, at just how much of a p***-take this all really is.

All the while I hear people banging on about people on benefits scrounging.... THE SINGLE BIGGEST BENEFITS SCROUNGERS ARE THE MONARCHY ITS TIME IT WAS SCRAPPED! F*** THE ROYALS! #makelizzythelast.

The comments are embarrassing for Mr Farage, who last year questioned why rising numbers of people are opposed to the monarchy.

He said: Why would so many young people not think having a monarch was a benefit to this country, would not think having a constitutional monarchy  which I think has served us incredibly well over the last few centuries  why would they not want that to be there?

Reform candidate Jo Hart ranted against the Queen

Following the Queens death in 2022, Mr Farage described her as the most respected human being in the world.

A Scottish Conservative spokesman said: This disgusting attack on the late Queen Elizabeth must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

Reform must suspend this candidate for holding such vile anti-monarchy, anti-Britain views.

At a time when the whole country came together to celebrate the Jubilee, Reforms candidate was branding the late Queen a benefit scrounger.

This candidate even had the raw nerve to claim people who put up Union Jack bunting and celebrated the Jubilee were brainwashed.

We already knew some Reform candidates are pro-independence, now it emerges they hold the same shameful views as the most bitter republicans in the SNP and the extreme Greens.

Ms Hart is standing in a seat which is set to be a close battle between the SNPs Seamus Logan and the current Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross.

At odds with candidate: The comments are embarrassing for Reform leader Nigel Farage

It comes after the Mail revealed details of a leaked Tory report which warned the SNP could win nine out of 12 key battleground seats if Reform UK wins just five per cent of the vote.

It is the latest in a series of controversies about Reform UK candidates.

Angela Carter-Begbie, who is standing in Queens Park and Maida Vale, called King Charles weak and claimed he was under the control of global financial elites.

She also questioned the Kings loyalty to Britain and said she was not a fan of the monarch.

A social media account in the name of Lee Bunker, the partys candidate for Exeter, asked in a post in 2018 when will they be deporting Diane Abbott, in response to an online post by Jeremy Corbyn about immigration deportation targets.

In response to the social media comments, a Reform UK spokesman said the partys candidates were not party-political zombies and have views of their own and are as free to express them as anyone else, even if they are not shared by all their party colleagues.

Asked if his party would condemn the comments Ms Hart shared on Facebook, David Kirkwood, deputy chairman of Reform UK Scotland, said: We are not going to comment.

Speaking at her Highland home last night Ms Hart said: We all have a right to make a comment. It wasnt actually my comment, it was a share.

 Click here to visit the Scotland home page for the latest news and sport
Auckland, 18 June 2024: Fletcher Building Limited (the Company) today announced that it had entered an agreement to divest 50% of its Fiji construction business to two local partners, Fiji National Provident Fund and Fijian Holdings Limited.

The transaction values the Fiji business, comprising Fletcher Construction and Higgins branded operations, at approximately NZ$40 million. The Company will receive cash proceeds of approximately NZ$20 million for the sale of a 50% stake in the business. Subject to finalisation of completion accounts, the Company expects to record a non-cash impairment of approximately NZ$15 million on the business. Completion of the transaction is targeted to occur in late June or early July 2024, conditional upon receipt of Fijian regulatory approvals.

Acting CEO Nick Traber said: We are pleased to enter into this agreement in Fiji with two strong local partners with whom we have a long-standing relationship. We believe the partnership positions the business well to continue to play an important role in Fiji, focused on infrastructure development.

The agreement does not impact on the Companys New Zealand construction business.

#Ends

Fletcher Building Enters Agreement to Divest 50% of Fiji Construction

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A forensic investigation has determined that the bones on a building site on Sydney's northern beaches are not human.

On Wednesday, officers attended a construction site on South Creek Road, Cromer, at about 10.45am after a number of bones were excavated.

The bones were taken for forensic examination, but police said this morning that results indicated the bones did not belong to a person.

Police outside a construction site on South Creek Rd, Cromer, on Wednesday night

The subjects of several notorious missing persons cases were last known to have been seen in the northern beaches area.

Mother-of-two Lynette Simms vanished without trace from the Bayview home she shared with husband Chris Dawson in January 1982.

Cromer is about 12km south of Bayview and 13km south of Newport, from where 18-year-old Trudie Adams disappeared in February 1978.

Chris Dawson was found guilty of murdering his wife in August 2022 and jailed for a minimum 18 years.
An Arkansas man who is suspected of killing three people in Oklahoma is being sought by police who have issued an urgent warning to the public.

Stacy Lee Drake, 50, was last seen outside a motel in Morrilton about an hour drive northwest of Little Rock, according to the Arkansas State Police.

Cops say he is wanted in connection with three deaths which occurred during two different car jackings.

He is also wanted on multiple felony warrants from varying jurisdictions, with charges including aggravated robbery, carjacking, and murder.

Stacy Lee Drake, 50, is believed to be 'armed and dangerous' and was last seen outside a motel in Morrilton, Arkansas, about an hour drive northwest of Little Rock, according to the Arkansas State Police

Drake's last known address was in Birmingham, Arkansas and authorities have asked the public to not approach him and call 911 immediately if they see him

Drake's last known address was in Birmingham, Arkansas.

Police believe he is 'armed and dangerous' and authorities have asked the public not to approach him.

He has been described as a 5-foot-11 White male with brown hair and eyes, weighing around 185 pounds.

If anyone sees Drake, they are asked to call 911 immediately.

He has been described as a 5-foot-11 White male with brown hair and eyes, weighing around 185 pounds

Sequoyah County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to an emergency call made from a business near State Highway 64 and South 4670 Road in Oklahoma.

On arrival, they found the dead bodies of a man and woman - who have not yet been identified.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation later confirmed that both the victims 'sustained injuries consistent with homicide'.

As officials began investigating, they identified Drake as a person of interest and the vehicle he allegedly stole was located in Morrilton last night, the OBSI further said.

Both victims were taken to the Office of the Oklahoma Chief Medical Examiner to be identified and determine their cause of death.

Officials believe that Drake is still in the Morrilton area as of now.

DailyMail.com has contacted the Arkansas State Police for more information.
A candidate for Nigel Farage's Reform UK party posted a vile anti-monarchy rant that branded the royals 'benefit scroungers'  during the Jubilee celebrations.

Jo Hart put the controversial comments about the late Queen Elizabeth, and other royals, on Facebook in 2022.

They included messages such as 'f*** the royals' and 'make Lizzy the last'.

The post is at odds with Mr Farage, who is a staunch monarchist and has questioned why anyone wouldn't want a constitutional monarchy 'which has served us incredibly well over the last few centuries'.

Reform was last night facing calls to axe Ms Hart but refused to condemn the comments or take any action against her.

Jo Hart (pictured) put the controversial comments about the late Queen Elizabeth, and other royals, on Facebook in 2022

The post is at odds with Nigel Farage (pictured), who is a staunch monarchist

She is standing in the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat, where Labour had to suspend its candidate for sharing pro-Russian material online.

The constituency is set to have a close battle between the SNP's Seamus Logan and the current Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross.

Ms Hart's Facebook post from June 2022, during the four-day bank holiday weekend to mark the Queen becoming the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, claimed millions of people around the UK are struggling to eat, keep warm and keep the lights on.

The rant, which Ms Hart claims was a shared post, said: 'But then the Jubilee comes along, for our 'glorious monarch' who has never experienced the kind of hardship having to choose between heating or food, she doesn't have to worry about keeping the lights on or not, in fact, the many MANY millions that have been p****d away on the jubilee celebrations haven't even come from her pocket, but from the public purse.

'This HUGELY WASTEFUL light show at the palace is nothing but a slap in the face to all of us common folk who are struggling with energy bills right now!'

It concluded: 'So this weekend when you're cracking out the bunting and celebrating the jubilee, just use that massively washed brain of yours and think instead, at just how much of a p*** take this all really is.

'All the while I hear people banging on about people on benefits scrounging... THE SINGLE BIGGEST BENEFITS SCROUNGERS ARE THE MONARCHY IT'S TIME IT WAS SCRAPPED! F*** THE ROYALS! #makelizzythelast.'

The comments are embarrassing for Mr Farage, who last year questioned why rising numbers of people oppose the monarchy.

He said: 'Why would so many young people not think having a monarch was a benefit to this country, would not think having a constitutional monarchy  which I think has served us incredibly well over the last few centuries  why would they not want that to be there?'

Following the Queen's death in 2022, Mr Farage described her as 'the most respected human being in the world'.

Following the death of the Queen (pictured), Mr Farage described her as 'the most respected human being in the world'

Jo Hart (pictured) is standing in the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat, where Labour had to suspend its candidate for sharing pro-Russian material online

A Scottish Conservative spokesman said: 'This disgusting attack on the late Queen Elizabeth must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

'Reform must suspend this candidate for holding such vile anti-monarchy, anti-Britain views.'

The row is the latest in a series of controversies about Reform UK candidates.

In response to the social media comments, a Reform UK spokesman said the party's candidates were 'not party-political zombies' and 'have views of their own and are as free to express them as anyone else, even if they are not shared by all their party colleagues'.

When asked if his party would condemn the comments Ms Hart shared, David Kirkwood, deputy chairman of Reform UK Scotland, said: 'We are not going to comment.'

Speaking at her Highland home last night, Ms Hart said: 'We all have a right to make a comment. It wasn't actually my comment, it was a share.'
A second Conservative MP candidate is being investigated over the alleged bet on when the next election would be.

Laura Saunders, who is standing in Bristol North West, is the subject of an inquiry by the Gambling Commission, according to a report by the BBC.

A Conservative spokesman said: 'We have been contacted by the Gambling Commission about a small number of individuals.

'As the Gambling Commission is an independent body, it wouldn't be proper to comment further, until any process is concluded.'

It comes after Rishi Sunak's parliamentary private secretary, Craig Williams, is also being investigated after putting a 100 bet on the election being held in July, just days before the Prime Minister announced the July 4 vote.

Mr Williams is being probed by the Gambling Commission over his 5-1 'flutter' in May.

The issue with those with close connections to the PM placing a bet on the election date comes with the individual having possible inside information that could give them an advantage.

Laura Saunders (pictured), who is standing in Bristol North West, is the subject of an inquiry by the Gambling Commission, according to a report by the BBC

The issue with those with close connections to Rishi Sunak (pictured) placing a bet on the election date comes with the individual having possible inside information

It has not been confirmed whether Ms Saunders had any inside information when allegedly placing the bet.

The use of confidential information to gain unfair advantage when betting may constitute a criminal offence of cheating under section 42 of the Gambling Act.

Those convicted face and unlimited fine or up to two years in jail.

The investigation regarding Ms Saunders also comes as a police officer in Mr Sunak's close protection team has been suspended and arrested over alleged bets about the timing of the election, it was revealed on Wednesday.

The Metropolitan Police was contacted by the Gambling Commission last Friday and told the commission was investigating the activities of a member of Scotland Yard's Royalty and Specialist Protection (RaSP) command.

The police constable was removed from operational duties with immediate effect.

A Met Police spokesperson said: 'We can confirm that on Friday, 14 June, the Met were contacted by the Gambling Commission who informed us that they were investigating alleged bets made by a Police Constable from the Met's Royalty and Specialist Protection Command, which were related to the timing of the General Election.

'The matter was immediately referred to officers in the Met's Directorate of Professional Standards, who opened an investigation, and the officer was also removed from operational duties.

Craig Williams (pictured), Rishi Sunak 's parliamentary private secretary, is also being investigated after putting a 100 bet on the election being held in July, just days before the Prime Minister announced the July 4 vote

'The officer was subsequently arrested on Monday 17 June on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was taken into custody and bailed pending further enquiries. The matter has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

'The Gambling Commission continues to lead the investigation into the alleged betting offences, and our investigation is running in parallel to that.'

Mr Williams, who is standing for re-election as MP in Montgomeryshire, bet on the election being held in July just three days before the announcement was made, The Guardian first reported.

Meanwhile, the nation was surprised the election was going to be held in summer rather than autumn. Mr Williams has since apologised for a 'huge error of judgement'.

The date and value of Ms Saunder's alleged bet have not been revealed.
Eco-fanatics caused outrage yesterday by defacing Stonehenge on the eve of the summer solstice.

Just Stop Oil activists used fire extinguishers to spray orange powder paint on at least three of the ancient stones before calmly sitting down cross-legged in front of the world-famous site.

Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer showed a rare united front in their condemnation of the stunt, which raised new questions about the historically intimate relationship between the Labour Party and Just Stop Oil.

The Prime Minister described it as a 'disgraceful act of vandalism', while the Labour leader branded the group 'pathetic'.

Yet Labour was accused of 'faux outrage' after JSO boasted of planning its action 'days after the Labour Party recommitted to halting all future oil and gas licences'  a policy the activists claim was influenced by their extremist road-blocking tactics.

Just Stop Oil activists use fire extinguishers to spray orange powder paint on Stonehenge

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described it as a 'disgraceful act of vandalism'

Mr Sunak rounded on major Labour backer Dale Vince, who, until last year, bankrolled the environmental protest movement.

He said: 'This is a disgraceful act of vandalism. Just Stop Oil should be ashamed of their activists and they and anyone associated with them, including a certain Labour party donor, should issue a condemnation of this shameful act immediately.'

Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho added: 'Labour's faux outrage at the Stonehenge vandalism would carry a lot more weight if Just Stop Oil hadn't also thanked Labour for enacting 'their demands' in their press release today.

We must not allow Britain's energy policy to be dictated by fanatics.'

Labour has accepted more than 5 million from Mr Vince, including 1 million after the election was called.

The green energy tycoon supported JSO from its foundation and donated at least 340,000 before cutting off the cash last October.

Sir Keir has previously come under fire for refusing to return any money donated by Mr Vince and has vehemently denied claims that the Ecotricity boss wields any influence over Labour policy.

Mr Vince said: 'Since Rishi Sunak has asked me personally to comment, I will. I don't support what JSO did today.'

But the close relationship with Mr Vince, who Sir Keir met just days before revealing a plan to block all new oil and gas licences in the North Sea last year  coupled with the party's previous opposition to toughening up laws around disruptive protests  has left questions over whether Labour can be trusted to crack down on such behaviour.

Major Labour backer Dale Vince (pictured), who, until last year, bankrolled the environmental protest movement

Labour has accepted more than 5 million from Mr Vince (pictured at a Just Stop Oil protest in 2023), including 1 million after the election was called

Members of the public were seen trying to prevent the protesters by dragging them away

Protestors Rajan Naidu (left) and Oxford student Niamh Lynch (right) calmly sit down cross-legged in front of the world-famous site

Sir Keir tweeted yesterday: 'The damage done to Stonehenge is outrageous. Just Stop Oil are pathetic. Those responsible must face the full force of the law.'

Footage of the shocking incident at noon yesterday shows horrified onlookers shouting 'no' while trying to drag the vandals away from the 5,000-year-old site.

Police arrested two protesters  named by the group as Rajan Naidu, 73, from Birmingham, and Oxford student Niamh Lynch, 21  on 'suspicion of damaging the ancient monument'.

Lynch said in a statement: 'Stonehenge at solstice is all about celebrating the natural world  but look at the state it's in! Standing inert for generations works well for stones  not climate policy.'

Naidu, who is understood to be a Quaker, added: 'Either we end the fossil-fuel era, or the fossil-fuel era will end us.'

Around 8,000 people gathered at Stonehenge to mark the longest day of the year in 2023, with similar numbers expected today.

English Heritage said it expected the solstice turnout to go ahead from 7pm until 8am tomorrow.

Conservative minister Simon Hoare joined the chorus of criticism last night. 'The full weight of the law is needed. I would incarcerate them on an old oil rig.'

Fellow Tory Alex Stafford said: 'It's absolutely disgusting  these mindless vandals have no appreciation for our history and heritage. All they can do is destroy rather than create.'

Sir Keir tweeted yesterday: 'The damage done to Stonehenge is outrageous. Just Stop Oil are pathetic. Those responsible must face the full force of the law'

Nick Kendrick, 55, who has been a Stonehenge tour guide for more than 30 years, said: 'There are 79 different species of lichen which grow on those rocks.

'These lichen are alive and help protect the stone and (they) will definitely have been harmed by this idiotic stunt.'

Just Stop Oil said: 'Continuing to burn coal, oil and gas will result in the death of millions. We have to come together to defend humanity or we risk everything.'
Troops from North Korea could join the invasion of Ukraine under a new pact with Russia, experts warned last night.

The chilling prospect of waves of Kim Jong Un's military flooding into the battered nation emerged after the dictator signed a defence agreement with Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang yesterday.

The Russian president was on a two-day state visit to North Korea, where he was greeted enthusiastically by tens of thousands of well-wishers.

During events yesterday, the two despots embraced and  according to North Korea state media  shared 'pent-up innermost thoughts' as they were driven to the Kumsusan state guest house.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un pose for a photo after the official welcome ceremony in Pyongyang

The Russian president was on a two-day state visit to North Korea, where he was greeted enthusiastically by tens of thousands of well-wishers

Footage of Putin's welcome ceremony in Pyongyang showed an honour guard and a crowd of civilians gathered in the Kim Il Sung Square by the Taedong River

Footage of Putin's welcome ceremony in Pyongyang showed an honour guard and a crowd of civilians gathered in the Kim Il Sung Square by the Taedong River.

Children waved balloons in celebration and the square was adorned with huge portraits of the two leaders and their national flags. Streets of the city were lined with images of Putin, and the facade of the unfinished Ryugyong Hotel was emblazoned with the message: 'Welcome Putin'.

Analysts agree that the arrival of thousands of Kim's soldiers on Russia's front line would be a game-changer in the conflict, significantly strengthening the Kremlin's hand. North Korea is also expected to supply Russia with a further five million ammunition rounds  having already supplied as much in recent months.

Last night, former British Army intelligence expert Philip Ingram said: 'I do think North Korea probably will supply troops as part of the new defence pact. This is very worrying. They will add numbers but how adaptable they will prove on the battlefield remains to be seen.

After suffering some 500,000 casualties in Ukraine, Russia needs to bolster its front-line forces

Analysts agree that the arrival of thousands of Kim's soldiers on Russia's front line would be a game-changer in the conflict

North Korea is also expected to supply Russia with a further five million ammunition rounds  having already supplied as much in recent months

'Russia's tactics have been so primitive, sacrificing vast numbers of soldiers in the so-called 'meat grinder'. The Kremlin is probably more interested in quantity of personnel rather than quality.' Meanwhile, ex-British Army commander Colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon suggested Kim could exchange soldiers for nuclear technology.

He said: 'It would show how absolutely desperate they both are; Putin for troops and Kim for knowledge.' North Korea's People's Army is believed to consist of up to 1.3million active personnel. The majority are engaged in the country's historic stand-off with South Korea.

After suffering some 500,000 casualties in Ukraine, Russia needs to bolster its front-line forces. The arrival of North Korean troops would further reduce Ukraine's chances of reclaiming its eastern provinces of Luhansk and Donetsk, which have been held by Russia since early 2022.

Putin and Kim's pact includes a joint obligation to intervene on each other's part in any conflict. This could see Russia supporting North Korea against South Korea. With no formal text being made public, however, its implications remain open to interpretation. Kim told reporters the country would respond 'without hesitation' to threats facing North Korea or Russia.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend an official welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang

North Korean military officers march during a welcoming ceremony, on June 19

Kim added that the new treaty would help create a 'new multi-polar world' and described his nation's support for Russia as 'unconditional'. Putin said the countries would provide 'mutual help' in the event of 'aggression' towards one another.

North Korea is already heavily sanctioned by the West over its attempts to develop nuclear weapons, so it has little to lose by supporting Russia's invasion.

Last night, Putin flew to Vietnam, a Communist-ruled country, where he is scheduled to meet leaders today.

n OUTGOING Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte is expected to become Nato's next secretary general after Hungary withdrew its objection to his selection.

Nato agreed to a request by Hungary's prime minister Viktor Orban for Hungary to be excluded from a Ukrainian support package  an agreement which Rutte has agreed to honour if selected.
The jury in the Greg Lynn murder trial has been reminded of a series of prosecution mistakes after returning to court to ask the judge a question.

The former Jetstar pilot has pleaded not guilty in the Supreme Court of Victoria to the murders of secret lovers Russell Hill, 74, and Carol Clay, 73, in the Wonnangatta Valley, in Victoria's Alpine region, on March 20, 2020.

On Wednesday, Justice Michael Croucher told the jury they were able to watch recordings of both Lynn and ballistics expert Senior Constable Paul Griffiths giving their evidence in court.

Greg Lynn is appearing at the Supreme Court of Victoria

Secret lovers Russell Hill, 74, and Carol Clay, 73, died in the Wonnangatta Valley, in Victoria's Alpine region, in March 2020.

The jury had asked the question before retiring for the day on Tuesday.

In telling the jury they could access the video recordings, Justice Croucher reminded them about a series of directions he gave after the closing addresses were delivered last week.

Justice Croucher told the jury they needed to recall his directions on 'fairness' while re-watching the evidence again on video.

On Friday, Justice Croucher took aim at Crown prosecutor Daniel Porceddu for breaking the well established rules of 'fairness' in his closing address.

'The rule of fairness was breached by Mr Porceddu when making arguments to you,' he told the jury.

'Had Mr Porceddu asked Mr Lynn these questions, put these propositions to him, Mr Lynn may well have been able to respond in a powerful and convincing way.'

The jury heard Mr Porceddu made the mistake of making submissions in his closing address that he did not give Lynn an opportunity to answer while he was in the witness box last week.

'In assessing the prosecution case on these matters you must take into account Mr Lynn ... was not given the opportunity by the prosecutor to directly answer these points,' he said.

'Because of this breach in basic rules of fairness and because of those consequences of the breach, you may more readily reject the prosecution argument and may more readily reject the inferences the prosecution wants you to draw.'

The shotgun police say Greg Lynn used to murder elderly camper Carol Clay

Greg Lynn's shotgun was equipped with a laser sight

On Wednesday, Justice Croucher told the jury again that Lynn is presumed innocent and did not need to prove 'a single thing' to them.

The jury was told they needed to be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt Lynn was guilty of murder to return such a verdict.

Justice Croucher told the jury Lynn and Senior Constable Griffiths had not been given an opportunity to respond to multiple allegations put to them by Mr Porceddu in his closing address.

Justice Croucher said the jury needed to watch both the prosecution questioning and defence cross-examination of both witnesses to 'get the full picture'.

The court heard the jury was granted access to more than five hours of video captured of Lynn and the ballistics expert, which they will review behind closed doors.

The jury retired to consider its verdict on Monday afternoon and has now sat a full day-and-a-half deliberating.

Senior Constable Griffiths had previously told the jury he found the 12-gauge slug on March 2, 2022 allegedly used to kill Ms Clay at the location where her burnt campsite was found.

The mangled slug was further found to contain fibres and 'biological material' believed to have been that of Ms Clay.

The jury has previously heard claims the slug that killed Ms Clay blew off the passenger side mirror of Mr Hill's Landcruiser before striking Ms Clay in the head.

'Given that quite some time had passed we had to use a sieving technique. So we went down close to an inch in that area,' he said.

Using a metal detector, the detective located glass fragments and the slug, he told the court.

'It was a fired projectile with a significant amount of impact damage,' Senior Constable Griffiths said.

Another search a week later turned up more alleged evidence, including bone fragments.

Police believe the side mirror of Russell Hill's car was shot off (pictured)

Senior Constable Griffiths said he was directed back into the bush in March 2022 in the hope of finding evidence that may have been missed earlier.

'The purpose was to search for other items and, from memory, find cartridge cases ... and other bone fragments,' he told the jury.

His evidence was savaged by Lynn's barrister Dermott Dann, KC.

Under cross examination, Senior Constable Griffiths came under fire for failing to check Lynn's story before performing trajectory tests.

The jury heard the detective had not used Lynn's shotgun to perform the tests, despite previously telling a preliminary hearing he had.

'This is just a botched exercise isnt it,' Mr Dann said.

'Its completely accurate,' came the response.

Lynn himself spent much of a day in the witness box giving his version of events.

While Lynn has always denied murdering the couple, the jury heard he freely admitted to cleaning up the alleged crime scene and destroying the evidence.

'It was despicable,' Lynn conceded.

'All I can say to the families is that I am very sorry for all of your suffering that I've caused ... yes I should be punished for it. For what I did.'

The jury heard Lynn had offered to plead guilty to the destruction of evidence before going on trial, but it had been rejected by the prosecution.

'I am innocent of murder,' he said. 'I am innocent (of manslaughter too). I haven't killed anyone.'

Dressed neatly in a suit and dark-rimmed spectacles, the former pilot spoke in a cool and calm manner as he took the jury through the bloody details of what police allege was cold blooded murder.
Episode Guide:

In this episode Caroline and Liz have the evidence of Dr Ravi Jayaram who told the jury he caught Lucy Letby virtually red handed as she allegedly attempted to kill Baby K. He says he walked into Nursery 1 to find the baby collapsing, but the alarms on the ventilator were not sounding and Lucy Letby was standing nearby doing nothing. He said today that he didnt call the police because he feared retribution from hospital managers.

The jury have already been told that Dr Jayaram is the key witness in the case and their verdict will ultimately depend on whether they believe him or not.

Lucy Letby denies attempting to murder Baby K who was a tiny baby girl born 15 weeks early.

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The Trial takes listeners behind the headlines and into the courtrooms of some of the biggest criminal cases in the world. We'll take you into the courtroom to bring you the details as the evidence unfolds, to examine key moments and to carry out exclusive interviews with detectives, victims, and experts.

Listen to The Trial of Lucy Letby: Baby K, wherever you get your podcasts.

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READ MORE: The stunning birds spotted the most often in UK gardens

Scientists are turning to the public to locate more than a hundred of Earth's 'lost' birds.

In all, 126 bird species worldwide are officially considered missing because they haven't been seen for at least 10 years, the experts say.

Among them are rare beauties including the purple-winged ground dove, the streaked reed warbler and the St. Kitts bullfinch.

Meanwhile, the slender-billed curlew  the only one on the list found in Europe  has not had a verified sighting anywhere since 2004.

A new study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment warns that the majority  around 60 per cent  are in danger of extinction.

Among them are rare beauties including the purple-winged ground dove, the streaked reed warbler and the St. Kitts bullfinch. Meanwhile, the slender-billed curlew  the only one on the list found in Europe  has not had a verified sighting anywhere since 2004

'The Search for Lost Birds' is a collaboration between Re:wild, American Bird Conservancy, and BirdLife International.

Its website features a list of all the lost species, including its region and the date of its last sighting, as well as a map of distribution based on prior sightings.

The scientists describe say a 'lost' bird as one 'not confirmed alive by photographic, audio or genetic information for over 10 years in the wild'.

Professor Cameron Rutt, ornithologist at American Bird Conservancy and lead study author, explained that 'lost' is a very different term to extinct.

Extinct when there is 'no reasonable doubt' that the last individual has died.

'There are many species on this list that are at the lowest categories of extinction threat,' Professor Rutt told MailOnline.

The slender-billed curlew has not had a verified sighting anywhere since 2004. Pictured, artistic impression by Danish naturalist Henrik Grnvold

'Even for species at a high risk of extinction, it would take many years before all of these species would be listed as extinct, if indeed they no longer exist.'

As for why they're lost, some birds may be in areas that are difficult to reach, preventing conservationists from mounting searches to find them.

It is also possible that these birds are lost only to scientists, and local and Indigenous communities are still sighting these species, as was the case with Papua New Guinea's now-found black-naped pheasant-pigeon.

The sole European bird on the list is the slender-billed curlew, which breeds in southwest Siberia and migrates through Europe to wintering grounds primarily in Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria.

'Given those endpoints, it would only ever occur in the UK as a vagrant,' Professor Rutt said.

The initiative's website has profiles of the lost birds and a global map showing their distribution based on prior sightings

'In fact, there is only a single British record  a contentious bird from Northumberland in May 1998  that was ultimately rejected on grounds of uncertain identification.'

Others include the Papuan whipbird, an endearing dark green bird that hasnt been documented in 13 years, and the Jamaican Pauraque, a stunning nightjar that was last seen in 1860, now considered 'critically endangered' and possibly extinct.

Birdwatching members of the public can join the search by first exploring the database for birds that were last seen in their region.

If you think you have spotted one, you're encouraged to contact the initiative via a dedicated webpage and share photos, videos or even audio.
America's most famous UFO case is still producing more evidence as scientists and civilians are on a mission to prove that the Roswell crash was not of this world.

The 1947 incident made headlines when the US Army Air Force issued a press release stating that it had recovered debris from a 'flying disc'  only later to reverse course, claiming that the material had really just belonged to a downed weather balloon.

Geologist Frank Kimbler is among the many experts who have challenged the military's official version of what crashed on the outskirts of this New Mexico town, where he has scoured the alleged UFO's crash site with a metal detector since 2010.

Kimbler has since uncovered over 20 unusual scraps of metal material, most no bigger than a fingernail, and has now submitted one uniquely odd metal for testing to the Discovery Channel's new series 'Alien Encounters: Fact or Fiction.'

Testing revealed that the metal was '100-percent pure aluminum,' which experts said was 'compelling evidence' that could prove aliens crashed in the area decades ago.

Geologist Frank Kimbler uncovered over 20 unusual scraps of metal material, most no bigger than a fingernail, and has now submitted one uniquely odd metal for testing to the Discovery Channel's new series ' Alien Encounters: Fact or Fiction

Kimbler (above with his possible UFO crash sample) had pulled this roughly quarter-inch metal fragment from an ant hill where the bugs had stored it. He submitted the aluminum sample for testing by the new Discovery Channel series

'I was really trying to champion truth throughout,' the new series' cohost, Chrissy Newton, told DailyMail.com, adding that she was not afraid to debunk a few celebrated UFO cases, if that's where the facts led.

'I want to prove that it's identifiable,' Newton said, 'not everyone's gonna like that.'

Nevertheless, Newton found the tests on the pure aluminum mystery metal to be compelling, she said, in part because a former Pentagon UFO investigator has told her that 'pure aluminum has been connected to multiple other UFO crash sites.'

While Newton did not name her Pentagon source, she described them as 'a source formerly from AATIP,' the US military's Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program, which from 2007 to 2012 had been tasked (in part) with studying UFOs.

'Most Al [aluminum] in use are anodized Al,' Dr Hossain noted, a process that creates a thin layer of aluminum, reacted with oxygen, to seal off the interior aluminum from rust-like degradation caused by reactions with the air. This sample, he said, had 'not been anodized'

Kimbler, who teaches earth sciences and geology at the New Mexico Military Institute, told Newton and her cohost that he had pulled this particular metal fragment, roughly a quarter-inch long, from an ant hill within the Roswell debris field.

Testing ant hills for ant-harvested metals, the geologist noted, has been a common tactic for gold prospectors, mining geologists, and metal detector hobbyists alike.

The insect colonies are known for collecting sturdy and sometimes buried materials for to build their tunnel systems, according to Jim Davis of Utah's geology survey.

'Thanks to the ant's undertakings, prospectors have discovered rich lodes of gold, copper, nickel, turquoise, diamonds, and many other minerals,' Davis said.

Over the years, Kimbler has been open that many of the metal fragments he's recovered from the infamous crash site might have a more earthbound explanation.

'Some of it could be trash, camper trash,' he told KRQE in 2018 after the Bureau of Land Management caught wind of his hobby, 'but some of it could be interesting.'

To confirm what Kimbler actually found, the new Discovery Channel series sent the metal sample for chemical testing via mass spectrometry to independent experts at the Texas-based firm Cerium Labs, which specializes is aluminum metallurgy.

Dr Tom Hossain, chief scientist at Cerium Labs, reported that the aluminum metal fragment was not only unusual for its purity, but it also differed from the typical industrial-grade aluminum used in manufacturing.

'Most Al [aluminum] in use are anodized Al,' Dr Hossain said.

Anodizing is an electrochemical process that converts the metal surface into a decorative, durable and corrosion-resistant finish known as an anodic oxide.

It protects the metal underneath that finish from corroding in reactions with the oxygen molecules present in both air and water.

The lead author of the Air Force's 1994 Roswell report, Col. Richard Weaver, came forward in 2020 to discuss 'a lot of manipulation going on behind the scenes' of his official inquiry. Above, an image for a 90s television program about one of the many books about the crash, 'The Day after Roswell'

Kimbler, who teaches earth sciences and geology at the New Mexico Military Institute, said he had pulled this particular metal fragment from an ant hill within the Roswell debris field. Above, a sign directing Roswell visitors to the start of a '1947 UFO Crash Site Tour' circa 1997

'This is not an alloy,' Dr Hossain wrote. 'This is pure aluminum.'

Kimbler's find joins a growing body of eyewitness testimony, and even declassified government records, that appear to indicate that the Roswell crash included some form of exotic metal materials.

More than 40 witnesses to the Roswell crash mentioned that a metal-like material from the site could 'remember itself' when folded or physically altered, according to UFO researcher Anthony Bragalia.

Bragalia obtained over 150 pages from the US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) in 2021 via a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, which he said included telling new evidence about where this 'memory metal' may have ended up.

The records included pages that repeatedly mention 'advanced technology reports' surrounding Nitinol, described as a shape recovery alloy.

Nitinol had similar properties to the 'memory metal' found near the Roswell crash site, according to Bragalia.

Pages from the FOIA reply indicate that the Pentagon was exploring whether Nitinol could be integrated into the human body for the improvement of health, the researcher wrote at his blog, UFO Explorations.

Today, even the lead author of the Air Force's official and final Roswell report in 1994, Colonel Weaver, has come forward to caution that the current official explanation is inconclusive: 'Did we say it was 100-percent? No way. We didn't say that' (above, the military's first explanation)

'Although much of the reports' details are redacted, what can be gleaned is that these technologies represent a literal quantum leap beyond the properties of all existing material known to man,' Bragalia said.

'Based on the documentation received,' he added, 'it appears that the retrieved debris exhibits other extraordinary capabilities.'

'In addition to 'remembering' their original form when bent or crushed, some of these futuristic materials have the potential to make things invisible, 'compress' electromagnetic energy, and even slow down the speed of light,' Bragalia said.

UFO researcher Tony Bragalia has argued that debris from the Roswell crash was flown to Wright Field in Greene County, Ohio, with Battelle Memorial Institute soon securing a contract to start remaking the UFO's 'memory metal' Nitinol, using Nickel and ultra-high purity Titanium

Today, even the lead author of the Air Force's official 1994 report, Colonel Richard Weaver, that revisited the Roswell case has come forward to caution that the military's current official explanation is by no means conclusive.

'Did we say it was 100-percent? Col. Weaver said on a 2020 podcast. 'No way. We didn't say that.'

Col Weaver also alluded ominously to 'politics and a lot of manipulation going on behind the scenes' of his 1994 inquiry, but added he is still confident in his report's explanation - that a secret military spy balloon was what crashed at Roswell.

Not every case to come to the hosts of Discovery's new 'Alien Encounters' reaches this level of fascinating physical evidence and documentation, however, as the show examines each submitted 'alien encounter' to the same high investigative standards.

Roswell base intel officer Major Jesse Marcel (left) has claimed he was forced to pose before reporters with weather-balloon debris he did not witness at the Roswell UFO crash site. Major Marcel was portrayed by actor Kyle MacLachlan in a 1994 Showtime original TV movie, Roswell

Above, Major Marcel posing with that more prosaic crashed weather balloon debris (above)

The show's premiere included two other cases: one proved to be explainable and the other appeared to remain a genuine mystery.

Posting up at The Variety, a long-standing local watering hole in Roswell, New Mexico, Newton interviewed multiple self-described UFO and alien 'experiencers' on camera to more thoroughly vet their stories.

Her cohost in this process, occult scholar and author Mitch Horowitz, called Kimbler an 'inspiration' for the local geologist's willingness to ask 'pure questions' and for taking a proactive approach to investigating these unexplained events.

'Along with Mitch, we both state our opinion, if we think it is a UFO or not,' Newton told DailyMail.com. 'But looking at the facts, [sometimes] there's not strong enough data to even make a conclusion.'

Newton said Horowitz's grounding in more social and cultural aspects of these phenomena complimented her own more scientific approach to their cases.

'And also a female perspective, which I think is nice too,' she said, 'when talking to different experiencers.'

Newton is a partner in the tech news start-up The Debrief and a member of a civilian research group devoted to investigating UFOs, now more accurately known as 'unidentified aerial phenomena' (UAP), the Scientific Coalition of UAP Studies (SCU).

In recent years, the SCU has published a series of data-driven studies linking many military and police-reported UFO accounts to sensitive US nuclear weapons sites.

'I'm always gonna follow the data, you know,' Newton said, 'being a member of the Scientific Coalition of UAP Studies.'

'It's really important for me to understand the data,' she said, 'like anybody else that really loves the science behind it.'

The new series' cohost Chrissy Newton (right) is a partner in tech news start-up The Debrief and a member of a civilian group devoted to investigating UFOs, now more accurately known as 'unidentified aerial phenomena' (UAP), called the Scientific Coalition of UAP Studies

'Alien Encounters: Fact or Fiction' premieres tonight, Wednesday, June 19, at 10PM Eastern and Pacific on the Discovery Channel. Shortly after, the series will be available to stream on Max

Newton said she joined up with the new docuseries' producers in an effort to help bring her years of experience interviewing scientists and academics on her podcast for The Debrief, Rebelliously Curious, to good use investigating more UFO cases.

'I think they came to me because I have interviewed people from all different degrees, obviously academics and scientists with my podcast, and I've been around so many different UAP experiencers' Newton told DailyMail.com.

In episodes to come, 'Alien Encounters' teases that the show will dig into a potential alien abduction experienced be two friends driving in California, an incredible UFO documented by a woman hiking Machu Picchu in Peru, and still more baffling cases.

But Newton emphasized that even those cases she and her colleagues prove to be ordinary are just as important as the cases that could be extraordinary.

'We want to identify UFOs,' Newton said. 'It makes it easier then for us to weed through the other data from UFOs that we can't explain.'

'To identify something and say, 'this is the ISS' [the International Space Station] or 'this is a Starlink satellite,'' she noted, 'that gives us better analytics and tools, better science and technology that other experts can look at.'

'Alien Encounters: Fact or Fiction' premieres tonight Wednesday, June 19 at 10PM ET/PT on the Discovery Channel. Soon after, the series will be streaming on Max.
June 18, 2024: American guided missiles and bombs had some unexpected problems with accuracy in Ukraine because of innovative Russian electronic jamming. The United States did not expect their GLMRS missiles launched from HIMARS vehicles or GPS guided 155mm shells or bombs dropped by Ukrainian aircraft to miss their targets because of unexpectedly heavy and effective Russian jamming. Any weapon dependent on electronic guidance was vulnerable to jamming and the Russians innovated in this field to degrade the effectiveness of guided weapons NATO nations were providing to Ukraine.

This alerted the Americans to problems they didnt know they had with their guided weapons. This has happened before because in peacetime weapons developers overestimate the effectiveness of their weapons and underestimate the effectiveness of enemy countermeasures. This is a traditional situation because all anyone remembers is that in wartime the enemy can quickly develop countermeasures to render your new wonder weapons much less wonderful. The Ukrainians also responded with attacks on Russian jammers and SEAD (suppression of enemy air defenses) operations. Going after air defense systems, otherwise known as SEAD rather than the World War II phrase "flak suppression", is an expensive task and a high priority one during the Cold War. Shutting down air defenses is only undertaken if the target being defended is important enough to warrant such an expensive application of air power.

After the Cold War ended the growing number of precision missiles seemed to be a more efficient way to go after heavily defended targets. This spurred development of air defense systems that can hit missiles. The US Patriot SAMs (Surface to Air Missile) ability to intercept SCUD missiles was the first combat example of this technique. While crude then, the Patriot showed that it could be done in 1990. The similar Russian S-300 system has since acquired anti-missile capabilities, and its replacement S-400 was built with them. That said, nearly all the NATO aircraft losses in combat since the 1990s were from low tech weapons like machine guns and small SAMs.

The last time the United States had to do any serious SEAD was in 2003 during the invasion of Iraq. This was against second rate Russian Cold War era systems sold to foreign customers. But now the Russians have their most modern stuff in Syria and there is a possibility NATO aircraft may have to deal with it. So the December meeting was a first step in figuring out how to handle a SEAD challenge not seen since the 1980s.

Flying into heavily defended enemy air space is a risky business. High and low altitude anti aircraft defenses are numerous. Radars are all over the place. One approach is to sneak in with small (one to four) groups of planes. Coming in low, a few hundred meters high or low enough to burn the treetops, the enemy has little time to react before you are past him. Zipping along at 200 meters a second, there is not much for the enemy to see, or shoot at. Using electronic mapping and navigation devices, the target is found (most of the time), the munitions released and an equally rapid exit made. Few aircraft are capable of this approach and the most modern detection and weapons systems (like what Russia has in Syria) are designed to handle it.

There is another solution, stealth. Designing aircraft for maximum resistance to detection to produce stealth capability was pioneered by the U.S. in the 1970s from a Russian concept that the Russians could not turn into a workable aircraft. Such an airplane had a reasonable chance of penetrating enemy defenses to hit targets with a high degree of surprise. This is important, as the damage done goes down with the amount of warning the target has. Five minutes of warning can reduce air base damage 40 to 80 percent depending on how many concrete aircraft shelters the base has. Stealth, using the F-117 light bomber, worked for the U.S. in the 1990 and 2003 campaigns in Iraq but in case the Russians can detect and hit stealth aircraft you must be prepared to send in larger groups of aircraft, led by lavishly equipped electronics warfare planes, to ensure successful SEAD and destruction of the target. Since this process tends to destroy a lot of enemy ground defenses along the way that makes it easier for subsequent raids.

A package of fighters and support aircraft using SEAD to reach a target is led by Wild Weasel aircraft. These have radar detection and jamming equipment which can either hide the group from enemy radar or prevent the enemy from making accurate use of their ground-to-air missiles. You will need fighters to deal with enemy interceptors. Thus the battle can range from 10,000 meters up down to ground level. The Wild Weasels carry missiles that home in on enemy ground radars. The most dangerous opposition comes from enemy guns, which often can fire without radar in clear weather. For this reason, raids at night and in bad weather are often preferred. If all goes according to plan, the Weasels will protect the electronically less sophisticated strike aircraft to the targets, where they release their loads. Everyone then fights their way home past a thoroughly alerted enemy. Stealth aircraft are well suited to perform the Wild Weasel role and have done so. This has become a common mission as there are still a lot of non-stealth strike aircraft and a need to suppress anti-aircraft defenses. For targets where surprise is not critical, stealth led raids are the norm. This was the case in the 1990 and 2003 Gulf Wars.

Russia was striving, with some success until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, to catch up with Western strike aircraft in overall sophistication and effectiveness. None of their new generation of strike planes, which have now been seen under combat conditions, were effective to the extent Russia hoped. Russia has its own AWACS and Wild Weasel aircraft but both are somewhat tame compared to Western models. Russian pilots, by and large, are not as expert, experienced or audacious as their Western counterparts. Israel and Sweden, however, produce very AWACS, mainly for export, that are superior to anything the Russians have.

If the Russians in Syria do become a target, NATO allies have to know if the U.S. is ready to try using its latest stealth aircraft (F-22 and F-35) and how that would work in cooperation with other NATO warplanes, especially the most modern ones like Typhoon and Rafale. It is unclear how much has been decided about all this, but then details regarding SEAD and stealth capabilities and plans tend to be kept secret.

In Ukraine the Russians are fighting a country that wants to join NATO, and NATO has assured Ukraine that they will be able to join as soon as the war with Russia is over. NATO is a mutual defense organization and the Russians would not have attacked if Ukraine had been a member in 2022 because NATO troops as well as NATO military aid would be fighting the Russian invaders.
The explorer says he wants to put 1,000 people safely on the planet by 2050

Guillermo Sohnlein co-founder of OceanGate says he can send people to Venus

The co-founder of the company that built the doomed Titan sub now claims he can safely send humans to Venus by 2050.

Guillermo Sohnlein founded OceanGate in 2009 with Stockton Rush, who died a year ago when Titan imploded during a dive to the Titanic wreck site along with four other men.

However, despite this less-than-stellar safety record, Mr Sohnlein is now building a 'global community' of Venus enthusiasts to get human colonies to the planet.

In a blog post, he claims: 'We could embark on our Venusian journey TODAY ... and do it safely and cost-effectively.'

With surface temperatures hot enough to melt lead and an atmosphere filled with clouds of sulphuric acid, most scientists say Venus is completely uninhabitable.

Guillermo Sohnlein (pictured), co-founder of the company that produced the doomed Titan submersible, now says he can send humans 'safely' to Venus

Today, Venus is the warmest planet in the solar system, with a surface hot enough to melt lead and a thick atmosphere containing toxic clouds of sulfuric acid

Venus: Earth's hellish sister planet Diameter at the equator: 7,521 miles (12,104 km) Distance from Earth: 24 million miles (38 million km) Atmosphere: Mainly CO2 Surface temperature: 464C (867F) Surface pressure: 92 bar Day length: 117 Earth days Year length: 225 Earth days Habitability: With temperatures hot enough to melt lead, extreme pressure, and clouds of sulphuric acid Venus is considered to be very inhospitable to life. Advertisement

Although Venus is sometimes called Earth's sister planet, it could not be more different to our own planet.

At 24 million miles away, it would take humans several months to get there, but the main issue is its hostile conditions.

With temperatures exceeding 464C (867F) and pressures equivalent to 914m (3,000ft) beneath Earth's ocean, Venus is not-undeservingly described as a hellish world.

Mr Sohnlein  who left OceanGate a decade ago  doesn't plan to attempt a landing on Venus' surface, but suggests that humans could live in floating cities about 50km (30 miles) above the Venusian surface.

At this height, the force of gravity is equivalent to 98 per cent of Earth, something which Mr Sohnlein believes is essential to the survival of a human colony.

Additionally, the air pressure at this altitude is equivalent to that on Earth's surface and temperatures hold at a relatively tolerable 30-50C (86-122F).

As for the clouds of sulphuric acid, he says these 'can be overcome with breathing apparatus and acid-resistant materials' or converted into drinking water.

Writing in his Humans2Venus blog in April Mr Sohnlein said he thinks Venus is a better prospect for humans than Mars, which is a focus of NASA and Elon Musk's SpaceX.

'The reality is that Venus is much closer to Earth and has a much more similar orbit, which makes it much more accessible than Mars (lower cost, more frequent flight windows, shorter transit times, higher safety, etc.)' he said.

Mr Sohnlein (left) is pictured here with OceanGate co-founder Stockton Rush who died last year when their Titan sub imploded

The planet Venus is closer to Earth than Mars but its climate is extremely inhospitable with temperatures hot enough to melt lead and an atmosphere filled with clouds of sulphuric acid

At certain points in its orbit, Venus is around 24 million miles (38 million km) from Earth which could make it easier to reach than Mars

'Also, we don't have to worry about conducting successful landings on the planet's surface, which is one of the biggest challenges awaiting us on Mars.

'If anything, one could argue that sending humans to Venus BEFORE sending them to Mars might be a better way to safely develop the capabilities to create a Martian community.'

In an interview with Times Radio last year, Mr Sohnlein said he was involved in 'the early phases' of a development program that designed predecessor subs to Titan, but not Titan itself.

However, his association with the company may tarnish his reputation as a leader in exploration.

OceanGate, which he founded alongside Stockton Rush in 2009, became infamous after its submersible suffered a 'catastrophic implosion' less than two hours into its dive on June 18, 2023.

Mr Sohnlein reputation for exploration has been tarnished by his association with OceanGate, the company which made the ill-fated Titan sub

The subsequent media attention revealed a history of safety issues including concerns over the integrity of the hull.

In 2018, OceanGate fired their director of marine operations David Lochridge who later claimed he had been dismissed for whistleblowing.

Mr Lochridge claimed to have been fired after raising safety issues including 'visible flaws' in the ship's hull.

However, according to his LinkedIn, Mr Sohnlein had left his position as OceanGate's COO in 2013  years before the disaster and Mr Lochridge's unfair dismissal claims.

Since his departure from OceanGate, Mr Sohnlein is now pursuing the extremely ambitious goal of sending humans to Venus.

After Titan's implosion last year, it was revealed that safety issues had been raised for years by members of staff and external bodies

He founded the Humans2Venus foundation in 2020 with the stated goal of creating 'the largest global community of general and professional Venus enthusiasts.

In January of this year, the Argentinian-born entrepreneur also founded Space Bridge Partners, a firm which connects commercial investors with space exploration missions.

And, despite humans having not yet even established a working base on the moon, he remains optimistic that 2050 is a realistic target for a Venusian colony.

A draft company timeline shared in 2023 suggests that there could be crewed stations on the planet before 2040.

NASA has previously considered establishing a floating colony in Venus' atmosphere with the High Altitude Venus Operational Concept (HAVOC).

In 2015, NASA engineers proposed that HAVOC could place lighter-than-air craft in the atmosphere which could eventually support a permanent human presence.

Notably, it emerged that the Titan sub was controlled using a store-bought game controller. Mr Sohnlein had departed the company before the sub was destroyed

NASA has also proposed placing human colonies in the Venusian atmosphere with the HAVOC mission (pictured), but this remains a concept with no concrete plans for further progress

However, while HAVOC remains largely an intellectual exercise with no concrete plans to move forward, Mr Sohnlein says he wants to put 1,000 people on the planet by 2050.

Speaking to Business Insider in June last year, he said: 'Forget OceanGate. Forget Titan. Forget Stockton. Humanity could be on the verge of a big breakthrough and not take advantage of it because we, as a species, are gonna get shut down and pushed back into the status quo.

'[Sending humans to Venus] ... it is aspirational, but I think its also very doable by 2050.'

MailOnline has contacted Mr Sohnlein for further comment.
The depiction of a beloved 'Simpsons' character has been discovered inside a 3,500-year-old Egyptian mummy's sarcophagus.

Archaeologists found the inner lid featured a drawing of a yellow-colored woman in a long, green garment with blue hair shaped in a rectangle - similar to the look of Marge Simpson.

The photo of the ancient coffin was recently shared on Reddit where it generated excitement from people on Reddit who asked 'Marge?' and joked that 'Egypt predicted Simpsons.'

While the imagery bears a striking resemblance to the cartoon character, experts believe it depicts the woman buried in the coffin as she traveled to the afterlife.

Archaeologists found a Marge Simpson look-alike drawing surrounded by a dozen high priestesses that represented the 12 hours of the day

The Egyptian coffin contained the mummified remains of Tadi Ist, the daughter of the high priest of El-Ashmunein - a town located on the western bank of the Nile River and 27 miles south of where she was buried in Minya.

Archaeologists unearthed the coffin in early 2023 and found the Marge Simpson look-alike drawing on the inside of the lid that was surrounded by a dozen high priestesses that represented the 12 hours of the day.

The mummy was found in excellent condition, wearing a mask and beaded dress.

'It is a rare and important scene ever. Every scene of the hour has its shape,' the Supreme Council of Antiquities Secretary General Mostafa Waziry told The Egyptian Gazette.

However, the center drawing has gained the most attention for its resemblance to Marge from Fox's beloved long-running cartoon, 'The Simpsons.'

For years, people have said the show predicts future events often citing the 1992 episode that predicted Washington's win over the Buffalo Bills at Super Bowl VXVI and a 2000 episode showing Donald Trump as president.

In 1990, 'The Simpsons' predicted the censorship of Michelangelo's David which came to fruition last year when a Florida principal was forced to resign over complaints about a lesson where she showed the statue.

One person took to Reddit to say the coffin's drawing is 'the only documented time in history where The Simpsons didn't do it first.'

The photo of the ancient coffin was recently shared on Reddit where it generated excitement from people on Reddit who asked 'Marge?' and joked that ' Egypt predicted Simpsons'

The Egyptian coffin contained the mummified remains of Tadi Ist, the daughter of Djehouti, the high priest in El-Ashmunein

Archaeologists reported that the cemetery hosted the remains of senior officials and priests of the New Kingdom who lived from 1550 BC to 1069 BC

The cemetery hosted the remains of senior officials and priests of the New Kingdom who lived from 1550 BC to 1069 BC.

They discovered a wood coffin next to Ist that was dated from the end of the 20th Dynasty and is believed to belong to Nany, a woman who was a chantress of the high priest Djehouti, according to the Egyptian Gazette.

Researchers started excavating the site in 2017 and have uncovered artifacts made from pottery and wood including covered urns, called canopic jars, used to hold the entrails from an embalmed body and several ushabti - a figurine used during funerary practices to honor the dead.

They also found a piece of papyrus that talks about the Book of the Dead - a collection of magical spells used by the ancient Egyptians to help them gain entry to the afterlife.

'They imagined the afterlife as a kind of journey you had to make to get to paradise  but it was quite a hazardous journey so you'd need magical help along the way,' according to the British Museum.

'This is the fourth papyrus discovered by the Egyptian mission after the three which were discovered in Saqqara,' Waziry told the Egyptian Gazette, adding that 'it will be on display in the Grand Egyptian Museum.'

Archaeologists believe these findings could shed light on ancient Egyptians' culture, artistry and ancient burial practices
Mount St. Helens has begun rumbling again recently - more than four decades after the worst eruption in US history.

Since February 1, 2024, approximately 350 earthquakes have been recorded at the 8,300-foot Washington state volcano by the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network.

Most of these - more than 95 percent - have been less than magnitude 1.0 and are too small to be felt at the surface.

The largest quake recently felt at the volcano, which is located in southwestern Washington about 50 miles northeast of Portland, Oregon, was a magnitude 2.0 on May 31, 2024.

There are fears the earthquakes could lead to another massive explosion reminiscent of 1980s eruption that left 57 people dead and permanently altered the area's ecosystem.

Mount St. Helens has begun rumbling again recently - more than four decades after the worst eruption in US history. (Pictured: the 1980 eruption)

PITCURED: The aftermath of the 1980 eruption

In early June, the number of earthquakes recorded per week reached a peak of 38 events per week, mostly happening around 4.6 miles below the crater floor.

Specialized equipment has detected that magma has been flowing through chambers deep underground, causing the volcano to recharge.

It comes after a surge in quakes was also recorded in 2023.

The 1980 eruption left 57 people dead

'Short-term increases in earthquake rates are common at Mount St. Helens and are considered part of background seismicity,' experts at the Cascades Volcano Observatory said in a statement this week.

'The last two periods of elevated seismicity (in 2023 and 2024) represent the largest short-term increase in earthquake rates since the last eruption ended in 2008.'

However, similar sequences involving even more quakes broke out in 1988 to 1992, 1995 to 1996, and 1997 to 1999. None of these directly triggered an eruption.

The quakes are thought to be caused by pressurization of the magma transport system, which in turn is triggered by the arrival of additional magma, a process called recharge.

Since February 1, 2024, approximately 350 earthquakes have been recorded at the 8,300-foot Washington state volcano by the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network

Magma gradually bubbles through the lower crust and builds up in a reservoir around 2.5 to six miles below sea level. 'Recharge' events break out when magma enters this reservoir, causing quakes.

'There have been no significant changes in other monitoring parameters (ground deformation, volcanic gas or thermal emissions) and no change in hazards at Mount St. Helens as a result of this activity,' the Observatory concluded.

However, in 1980, small earthquakes were recorded at the site just before the deadly eruption.

On May 18, 1980, residents flooded the area as they sat in open fields and rooftops as rumors of a volcanic eruption spread. Millions all over the world waited around for two months to see what would happen next.

But on that morning, at 8.32am, the results turned out to be deadly as a magnitude-5 earthquake struck, causing the volcano to lose its crypto-dome and erupt.

Those in the area had nowhere to take cover.

The volcano fatally exploded (pictured) on May 18, 1980 and took the lives of 57 people. Just two days before small earthquakes were recorded at the site

More than 400 earthquakes have been detected beneath the surface of the volcano in recent months. There have been more than 2,000 earthquakes recorded at the site since 2010

The volcano exploded sideways and sent an enormous landslide of a super-heated mix of ash, rock fragments and gas flowing downslope. The ash and gas then rose and blocked the sun, turning the sky completely dark.

Venus Dergan told Portland Monthly she and her boyfriend, Roald Reitan, were camping on the south fork of the Toutle River, just 30 miles from the volcano.

They woke up to a blaring alarm from the nearby town of Toutle and said they didn't hear the eruption but saw water rush toward them.

At the time of the 1980 eruption only one monitoring system (pictured) was in place, but currently there are 20 systems

'We were lucky that we got out of the tent when we did. They probably would have never found us.

'We would've been buried alive,' Dergan said.

Destructive mudflows, also known as lahars, swept up homes and trucks as officials closed bridges and stalled railroad track operations.

Most of the debris from the seismic event turned westward, down the North Fork Toutle River and formed a mound of deposit.

The total avalanche volume equaled a measurement of 1million Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Trees were also blown to the ground or scorched by the brutally hot lava, leaving the once-dense forest virtually empty.

Loads of volcanic ash and blistering hot lava erupted from the summit and caused health issues for those in the area at the time

Destructive mudflows, also known as lahars, swept up homes and trucks as officials closed bridges and stalled railroad track operations

The volcanic ash fell like snow throughout Washington, Idaho and western Montana. Officials had to close highways for weeks and airlines canceled more than 1,000 flights.

In the days following the devastation, an estimated 540million tons of ash drifted up from the structure and settled over a total of seven states.

THE CATACLYSMIC ERUPTION OF MOUNT ST. HELENS, 1980 On May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens in southwest Washington erupted. The cataclysmic event killed 57 people and blasted more than 1,300 feet off the top of the mountain. The eruption was trigged by a magnitude 5+ earthquake, which was accompanied by a debris avalanche. This abruptly removed the pressure at the top of the volcano, allowing hot water to quickly become steam, expanding explosively, according to USGS. A wave of decreasing pressure travelled down the volcano to the magma reservoir lying below. The magma then began to rise and bubble, creating a massive eruption which lasted for nine hours. The debris avalanche travelled westward as far as 14 miles down the North Fork Toutle River valley, with a total volume equal to 1 million Olympic swimming pools. And, the lateral blast devastated the surrounding area nearly 19 miles west to east, and 12.5 miles to the north. In less than 15 minutes after the blast of hot material began, an eruption cloud had reached a height of more than 15 miles. Roughly 520 million tons of ash were blown across the United States, causing complete darkness in Spokane, Washington  250 miles away from the volcano. The cloud circled the Earth in 15 days. Advertisement

The aftermath also drew researchers from around the world as they began to study the impacts of the ash, and navigated ways to clean up the farmlands, roads and water treatment facilities.

The ash itself left a lasting impact on human, animal and plant life. When volcanic ash is dispersed it can cause respiratory and eye issues, along with skin irritation.

Toxic gases like carbon dioxide and fluorine commonly found in ash directly affected crops, animals and caused human illness.

The disastrous eruption also caused large amounts of mud, water and debris to intrude on banks and flooded low-lying valleys. Rock sediment clogged channels in the Toutle, Cowlitz and Columbia Rivers.

To this day, those rivers continue to transport this sediment downstream ten times greater than before the 1980 eruption, the United States Geological Survey reported.

The natural disaster killed thousands of animals and caused over $1billion in damage.

One of the people killed that day was Robert Landsburg, a 48-year-old photographer who was just a few miles from the summit.

The Seattle-born man dedicated himself to his craft up until the very moment he died, as he knew there was no way out of the catastrophic event.

Instead of trying to escape, he continued to take photographs and made sure that he protected his camera and film from the blistering hot lava and ash that consumed him.

The photographs captured in his final moments were published in the January 1981 issue of National Geographic and are still admired to this day.

Another volcano eruption at Mount St. Helens took place from 2004 to 2008 and allowed scientists to investigate just how it works. It also allowed them to advance their monitoring systems that detect when the next explosion might take place.

At the time of the 1980 eruption only one monitoring system was in place, but currently there are 20 systems.
READ MORE: Elon Musk warns AI will outsmart mankind by the end of next YEAR

The tech billionaire says that people should 'enjoy the ride' of AI advancements

For a man funnelling billions into the development of AI, Elon Musk seems extremely concerned about the dangers of the technology.

The tech billionaire said today that he forecasts a '10 to 20 per cent probability' of a scenario in which AI annihilates humanity.

Speaking at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Musk told audiences that even AI's most positive outcomes would lead to an 'existential crisis' for humanity.

However, Musk also said that people should remain positive despite the impending risk of destruction.

Musk said: 'The glass is 80% full. Look on the bright side.'

Tesla CEO Elon Musk (pictured at Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity on Wednesday) has predicted that there is a 10 to 15 per cent chance of AI causing a global disaster which could destroy humanity

Musk has been a long-standing critic of AI, often saying that unchecked development could lead to the destruction of humanity.

Today Musk once again reiterated that point, saying: 'I tend to agree with Geoff Hinton  one of the godfathers of AI  and he thinks theres a 10-20% probability of something terrible happening.'

Last year, Musk was one of 1,000 signatories calling for a pause on AI development.

The billionaire has even warned that AI could be 'one of the biggest threats to humanity'.

However, just as the Tesla CEO has before, Musk also argued that the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

Elon Musk is a long-time advocate for more AI safety, today telling an audience that the technology could either create a 'universal hike' in welfare or 'something terrible'

Musk has previously warned that AI could go rogue, much like in the movie The Terminator, and lead to humanities destruction

He said: 'I think the most likely outcome is one of abundance, where goods and services are available to anyone.

'Theres no shortage for any one of us. It would be a universal hike. Work would be optional.'

Yet, even in this optimal scenario, Musk warns that there would be a 'crisis of meaning' for humanity.

'If AI can do everything you can do but better, whats the point of doing things? I think there will be an existential crisis.'

Despite the dire predictions, Musk advised that people should remain optimistic.

Speaking at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity today (pictured), Musk told audiences to look on the brighter side as there was an 80 per cent chance they would not be destroyed

Asked if he would like to live through AI's destruction of humanity, Musk replied: 'Would I want to be around to see it? Probably, yes.

He then told the audience they were 'at the most interesting time in history' and recommended that they 'enjoy the ride'.

The scenario Musk describes, in which all work is done by machines, is universally accepted as likely.

However, there is no question that AI and advances in robotics will lead to vast numbers of jobs becoming automated.

Traditionally secure jobs such as lawyers, doctors, and teachers may be replaced by sufficiently advanced language models.

Meanwhile advances in AI robotics are paving the way for the development of humanoid robots which could replace workers on factory floors.

Despite his warnings Musk over AI, musk has continued to invest in AI projects like XAI and robotics systems like the Tesla Optimus (pictured)

Musk himself is funding the development of Optimus, a humanoid robot created by Tesla which could one day take on manual labour roles.

Despite seeing AI as an existential risk and calling for a pause in research, Musk has also continued to pursue the development of his own AI company: XAI.

This has led to the release of Grok, which is supposed to be an edgier, sarcastic version of popular chatbots like OpenAI's ChatGPT.

In June, XAI closed its original funding round with $6 billion (4.71bn) of investment, bringing its total valuation to $24 billion (18.9bn).

Musk also faces a lawsuit from several Tesla shareholders who claim he knowingly diverted talent and resources into AIX from Tesla.

Speaking with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak last year, Musk warned that AI was one of the biggest threats to humanity

Musk said that we are living through one of the most interesting times in history and that we should 'enjoy the ride'

During his wide-ranging conversation with Mark Read, CEO of communications company WPP, Musk also attempted to smooth things over with advertisers on X (formerly known as Twitter).

After telling advertisers to 'go f*** yourself' in November, Musk now says that his comments were not intended to 'target advertisers as a whole'.

Rather Musk claimed that his comments were only addressed to a set of advertisers who were 'insisting on censorship'.

Musk added: 'I do shoot myself in the foot from time to time, but at least you know its genuine, not some sort of PR.'

Since Musk took over the platform in 2022 the market value of X, formerly Twitter, has plummeted by over 70 per cent according to Fidelity.

This has largely been driven by a decline in advertising revenue as companies fled the platform due to Musk's attitude towards free speech and offensive content.

Musk also tried to smooth over relations with Twitter's advertisers, saying that his comment that they should 'go f*** yourself' was only targeted at those who insisted on 'censorship'

This culminated in the tumultuous clash last year in which Musk claimed that advertisers were trying to 'blackmail' the social media platform.

Speaking today, Musk doubled down on his commitments to make X a 'free speech platform'.

He continued: 'I think its important to have a freedom of speech platform where people from a wide range can express their views.

'If its a choice between censorship and money and free speech and losing money, were going to pick the second.'

He said: 'Advertisers have a right to appear next to content that is compatible with their brands, thats totally fine, but what is not cool is insisting that there can be no content they disagree with on the platform.'

However, Musk also attempted to sell Twitter as a valuable platform for advertisers to reach 'intellectuals' rather than 'influencers'.

Musk said: 'X is smaller than other social media platforms, but theyre the most influential people in the world, so if you want to reach them, its the best place to go.'
Alicia Vikander stunned in a black leather-look mini skirt on Friday as she and her husband Michael Fassbender attended a Louis Vuitton show in Paris.

The former Lara Croft actress, 35, paired the skirt with a slightly lighter sleeveless top with very wide arm holes.

She completed her look with shiny lace-up black boots with accents of brown and she carried a tiny brown Louis Vuitton box bag.

Michael looked great in a tan-coloured trouser and jacket co-ord with a white T-shirt and white trainers.

The couple, who married in 2017 and live in Lisbon with their son, were joined at the fashion house's menswear show by the likes of Maya Jama and rising star Sabrina Carpenter.

Alicia Vikander, 35, stunned in a black leather-look mini skirt on Friday as she and her husband Michael Fassbender, 47, attended a Louis Vuitton show in Paris

The former Lara Croft actress paired the skirt with a slightly lighter sleeveless top with very wide arm holes

She completed her look with shiny lace-up black boots with accents of brown and she carried a tiny brown Louis Vuitton box bag

Just days prior, Alicia reunited with Jude Law at the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of their film Firebrand.

Alicia and Jude, 51, were joined by their Brazilian director Karim Ainouz, making his English-language feature film debut.

Firebrand premiered at Cannes in May 2023 and tells the story of Katherine Parr (Alicia), the sixth and final wife of Henry VIII (Jude) and the only one not to die while married to him.

During the film's Cannes photocall, Jude revealed he wore 'blood, fecal matter, and sweat'-scented perfume to fully encapsulate the obese and rotting body of Henry during his last years.

Alicia, talking to MSNBC's Morning Joe in June this year, said: 'I think this film is about a survivor, and I think she obviously stepped into this job being this wife knowing what the previous wives, where they had ended up.

'So, I think she had her kind of task very clear ahead of her, and I think she knew she would have to get close to this man - that she needed him to trust her more than anything.'

Alicia was not the first choice for the role: the former ballerina replaced Michelle Williams.

Meanwhile, Michael is currently filming American spy thriller Black Bag which boasts an all-star cast.

He is joined on the project by Cate Blanchett, Pierce Brosnan, and Bridgerton's Rege-Jean Page.

Michael is also said to be working with George Clooney for an exciting new television thriller due to begin shooting this summer.

The Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring/Summer 2025 show is part of Paris Fashion Week, which kicked off on Tuesday.

PFW will end on Sunday, June 23.

Michael looked great in a tan-coloured trouser and jacket co-ord with a white T-shirt and smile for a solo shot

The couple, who married in 2017 and live in Lisbon with their son, were joined at the fashion house's menswear show by the likes of Maya Jama and rising star Sabrina Carpenter

The Louis Vuitton show came just days after Alicia reunited with Firebrand co-star Jude Law (left) and director Karim Ainouz (right) at the film's Tribeca Film Festival premiere on June 11
Janice Dickinson hasn't been shy about her love of plastic surgery  having previously spent thousands of dollars on procedures to defy the aging process.

And on the new episode of Kaitlyn Bristowe's Off The Vine podcast, the supermodel, 69, said that she got her very first cosmetic surgery at age 32 while dating A-list actor Sylvester Stallone.

'What point in your career were you like, "I'm gonna start getting surgery done?"' Bristowe asked.

'Oh, gosh. I was dating Sylvester Stallone, and I was 32,' Dickinson replied. 'I noticed I started getting jowls...'

To tackle the issue, Dickinson got a 'mini face-lift' done.

Janice Dickinson hasn't been shy about her love of plastic surgery  having previously spent thousands of dollars on procedures to defy the aging process; seen in February 2024

And on the new episode of Kaitlyn Bristowe's Off The Vine podcast, the supermodel, 69, revealed that she got her very first cosmetic surgery at age 32 while dating A-list actor Sylvester Stallone; seen in 1994

A mini face-lift is meant to address early signs of aging as it corrects sagging on the lower third of the face.

It requires smaller incisions than a regular face-lift, minimal downtime and the results can last up to 10 years.

Dickinson recommended that Bristowe  who she said she felt she was 'at that age' where jowls start to become a concern  should also go the mini face-lift route.

'Get a mini face lift. It kept me going up until last week when I noticed [my lip lines]. I did smoke for a bit. Don't smoke. It's bad for you,' she said.

When asked if she 'regrets' any of her past surgeries, Dickinson replied: 'Oh, no.'

Back in 1994, Stallone and Dickinson had an affair while he was in a relationship with his now-wife Jennifer Flavin. At that time, Dickinson would have been age 39 not 32.

They'd met a year prior at a charity event and Stallone eventually left Flavin to be with the top model.

They got engaged but Stallone called it off six months later after learning that he was not the father of her daughter Savannah, who was born in February 1994, as per The Mirror.

It was later revealed that businessman Michael Birnbaum, who she dated in the early 1990s, was Savannah's biological father.

Stallone rekindled his relationship with Flavin, who is the mother of his three adult daughters, in 1995 and they tied the knot 1997.

Though she's tight-lipped about her Stallone fling, Dickinson is an open book when it comes to her cosmetic procedures.

'I noticed I started getting jowls,' she told Bristowe. To tackle the issue, Dickinson said that she got a 'mini face-lift' done; seen at age 32 in 1986

When asked if she 'regrets' any of her past surgeries, Dickinson replied: 'Oh, no'; seen in 2021

She previously admitted on E!'s Botched that she's 'no stranger to plastic surgery' as she's previously undergone a boob job, a tummy tuck, neck and face-lifts and liposuction.

She's also tried injectables like Botox but insists that her plump pout is natural.

In 2013, Dickinson declared herself bankrupt owing almost $1 million in taxes and unpaid cosmetic bills.

At the time of her bankruptcy filing, the star owed $8,000 to Beverly Hills dermatologist Arnold Klein and over $8,000 in debt to the Beverly Hills Anti-Aging Center.

In 2007 her son Nathan said he was desperate for her to stop, but she said: 'I won't do any more plastic surgery  if he's looking.'

In 2015 she appeared on Botched to fix a breast enlargement done 30 years prior which had left her with rippling across her breasts.

During the episode, Janice was seen swearing, demanding drugs and, after her implants were replaced, walking around naked, which led Dr Terry Dubrow to brand her his worst patient.

Janice was once one of the world's top models, appearing on the covers of Harper's Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Vogue and Playboy magazines as well as working with fashion houses including Versace, Oscar de la Renta and Calvin Klein.

Janice was once one of the world's top models, appearing on the covers of Harper's Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Vogue and Playboy magazines as well as working with fashion houses including Versace, Oscar de la Renta and Calvin Klein

Back in 1994, Stallone and Dickinson had an affair while he was in a relationship with his now-wife Jennifer Flavin. At that time, Dickinson would have been age 39 not 32; Stallone and Flavin seen in 2023

They got engaged but Stallone called it off six months later after learning that he was not the father of her daughter Savannah, who was born in February 1994, as per The Mirror; seen in 1994

She has also been a judge on America's Next Top Model and appeared on the fourth season of Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.

Janice was the star of her own reality series, The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency that ran from 2006 to 2008, named after the business she opened in 2005.

She's currently married to Dr Robert 'Rocky' Gerner, an LA-based psychiatrist.

They tied the knot in 2016 after Dickinson revealed that she had beaten the breast cancer that had been diagnosed with that March. She went through a six-month course of radiation and two lumpectomies.
Bronte Schofield gave a sneak peek of her surprisingly small and bare apartment in Perth last week.

The Married At First Sight star-turned-OnlyFans model, 29, previously claimed she made $250,000 in her first month on the X-rated platform.

However, it seems her sudden riches haven't been spent on a lavish bachelorette pad.

The former reality star found herself in a bind last week when she locked herself out of her apartment and had to call a locksmith to get back in.

In video footage posted to the TikTok account Locksmith Ninja Perth, Bronte's pad looked completely devoid of major furniture pieces.

Bronte Schofield gave a sneak peek of her surprisingly small and bare apartment in Perth last week

The tiny unit sits on the ground floor of her building and features an open plan living area with an attached kitchenette, which was littered with unopened appliances.

It's possible Bronte may have just moved into the space, as her Instagram Stories have recently featured videos of her unpacking new furniture items.

Her small home came as a surprise to fans after the adult content creator boasted about making hundreds of thousands of dollars from OnlyFans.

The Married At First Sight star-turned-OnlyFans model, 29, previously claimed she made $250,000 in her first month on the X-rated platform, however, it seems her sudden riches haven't gone to a lavish bachelorette pad

In February, the brunette beauty revealed she made a total of $250,000 in her first month, Yahoo Lifestyle reported.

'The money is freaking great. My first month, my account did $250,000, it was insanity and I was hardly even posting on there,' she said.

'It's the freedom I've always wanted and it's not what everyone thinks it is.'

Her small home came as a surprise to her fans after the adult content creator boasted about making hundreds of thousands of dollars off OnlyFans

She continued: 'I get photos of people wanting to see my belly button or my feet. You don't have to sell yourself completely to make money.'

Last year, Bronte took to TikTok shortly after she signed up for OnlyFans to boast about making $100,000 in her first three days.

'POV: You start an [OnlyFans] account for a lol and make $100,000 in 3 days,' she wrote over the video of her pretending to faint.

OnlyFans is an adult subscription-based website where content creators often sell sexually explicit material to their loyal fans.
Jacob Tremblay has officially graduated high school and celebrated the special milestone on his main Instagram page on Tuesday - prompting fans to 'feel so old.'

The Canadian-born actor, 17, notably starred in the 2015 Oscar-winning film, Room, when he was only nine-years-old alongside Brie Larson.

The star - who also voiced the character of Flounder in The Little Mermaid last year - uploaded a series of photos while wearing a cap and gown upon graduating from Walnut Grove Secondary School.

He also included a clip that was taken during the ceremony as he stepped onto the stage to receive his diploma.

One of the speakers announced Jacob and appeared in front of the attendees while met with cheers and applause. The announcer shared that the star 'is looking forward to continuing his career in the film industry' after graduation.

Jacob Tremblay, 17, has officially graduated high school and celebrated the special milestone on his main Instagram page on Tuesday - prompting fans to 'feel so old'; seen in February on Today

The Canadian-born actor notably starred in the 2015 Oscar-winning film, Room, when he was only nine-years-old alongside Brie Larson (seen above)

Another short reel showed Tremblay sitting in a chair amongst his fellow classmates and he sent a humorous pose towards the camera.

Lastly, he included a class photo as the students gathered together for a snap in front of the school while wearing their graduation attire.

In the caption of the latest post, Jacob simply penned to his 1.1 million followers: 'Congratulations WGSS Class of 2024!'

Social media users jumped to the comment section to share their excitement over the big step in his life. However, others were prompted to share how old they felt.

One typed out, 'Bro you was just a baby like 2 months ago,' while another added, 'I feel so old, you've literally graduated from high school.'

'How tf did you go from 6 y.o to 18??' a fan wrote, while one shared, 'Jacob grew up to fast for anyone's liking.'

Another penned, 'bro was just in room 2 months ago what happened,' and one Instagram user typed, 'I refuse to believe you graduated.'

'I can't believe u just graduated time pass so fast! Congrats!!' and one fan added, 'bro weren't you a kid like a year ago.'

He also included a clip that was taken during the ceremony as he stepped onto the stage to receive his diploma

One of the speakers announced Jacob and he appeared in front of the attendees and was met with cheers and applause

Another short reel showed Tremblay sitting in a chair amongst his fellow classmates and he sent a humorous pose towards the camera

One typed out, 'Bro you was just a baby like 2 months ago,' while another added, 'I feel so old, you've literally graduated from high school'

Back in 2015, Tremblay starred in the critically-acclaimed, psychological drama titled, Room, with other actors such as Brie Larson and Joan Allen.

The premise follows, 'A little boy is held captive in a room with his mother since his birth, so he has never known the world outside,' per an official IMDB synopsis.

The movie garnered four Academy Award nominations, with Larson winning for Best Actress.

Tremblay's performance also gained positive reception, and the actor won the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Young Performer in 2016.

During his acceptance speech at the time, he gushed that the award was 'super cool' and added that 'This is the best day of my life!'

'I first want to say thank you to all the critics who voted for me. It must be a super hard vote because of all the other great actors in this category.'

He then gave a sweet shout out to the cast and crew involved in Room, adding, 'I think us working together made this movie come true. And this award doesn't just go to me for that, it goes to all of you guys as well.'

In conclusion, the star sent his love to his parents and revealed that he planned to put his award next to 'my Millennium Falcon.'

Tremblay's performance also gained positive reception, and the actor won the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Young Performer in 2016 (seen above)

Earlier this year in February, Tremblay made an appearance on the Today show with Paul Walter Hauser to promote their film, Orion And The Dark - and also had the chance to celebrate his high school graduation; seen in 2023 in L.A.

Earlier this year in February, Tremblay made an appearance on the Today show with Paul Walter Hauser to promote their film, Orion And The Dark - and also had the chance to celebrate his high school graduation.

At the time, the star was asked if he had already attended a graduation ceremony due to finishing school a semester early.

'No, not yet. There's one kind of toward the end of the year 'cause I graduated a semester early. So I'll try to cut out the time to make it to it,' Jacob explained.

The Today hosts then suddenly began to play Pomp & Circumstance in order to throw a spontaneous ceremony for the actor.

Al Roker told Tremblay, 'You know, because Jacob you didn't get your diploma, your ceremony, we have a little something here for you. We've got your cap and gown.'

After putting on the cap and gown, the Wonder actor was given a 'diploma,' with Roker explaining, 'Better than a diploma, we have a certificate signed by all of us and Paul.'

Jacob gushed to the hosts, 'Oh thank you so much. Oh this is wonderful.' It was then revealed that they had gotten Star Wars star, Mark Hamill, to share a special video for Tremblay.

The Today hosts then suddenly began to play Pomp & Circumstance in order to throw a spontaneous ceremony for the actor (seen above)

Jacob gushed to the hosts, 'Oh thank you so much. Oh this is wonderful.' It was then revealed that they had gotten Star Wars star, Mark Hamill, to share a special video for Tremblay

'Hey Jacob, it's your old pal Mark Hamill here and I wanted to congratulate you on your graduation. I can't believe it. Where does the time go? I've known you since you were much, much shorter than me and now, not so much.'

He added, 'Anyway, congratulations on this milestone in your life and I wish you all the best and continued success.'

Afterwards, Jacob expressed, 'What just happened? That was amazing,' and added that Hamill is 'one of the nicest people you'll ever meet.'

Aside from Room, Tremblay has starred in other films such as The Little Mermaid (2023), Good Boys (2019) and Luca (2021).
Howie Mandel has revealed his wife Terry was high - not drunk - when she suffered a shocking fall that left her with her skull exposed.

The incident occurred in Howie and Terry's hotel room at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas after the couple enjoyed an evening of partying.

He went off to sleep, only to be jolted awake by a loud noise and discover to his horror that his wife was on the floor in a pool of blood.

When he first told the story on TV this Monday, he described Terry as having been 'tipsy,' leading many viewers to blame alcohol for her injuries.

However she was in fact under the influence of cannabis gummies, the America's Got Talent judge clarified during an interview on TMZ Live.

Howie Mandel has revealed his wife Terry was high - not drunk - when she suffered a shocking fall that left her with her skull exposed

'She slipped, went down, hit that on her eye, then fell on the floor and broke her cheek,' explained the St. Elsewhere alumnus

'First of all, she wasn't drunk,' said Howie, who has been married to Terry since 1980. 'She's so worried that people are going to intervene with her alcohol problem - she doesn't have an alcohol problem.'

He shared: 'I'm gonna tell you the truth - she took gummies. She took gummies. So it's not an alcohol problem. She was on pot.'

Howie explained that he used the word 'tipsy' on TV as a catch-all for being under the influence as he was initially reticent to reveal that Terry had used marijuana.

He first told the story of his wife's terrifying fall on Monday, saying that he went off to sleep not realizing that they had 'partied' to a degree that was 'too much' for Terry.

'In the middle of the night she got up and  I don't know where she was headed  but she headed into the wall,' he shared on Live! With Kelly And Mark. 'And she fell and hit the wainscoting. She hit that as she went down.

'She slipped, went down, hit that on her eye, then fell on the floor and broke her cheek,' explained the St. Elsewhere alumnus.

'I heard "bang" and "ahh" and I woke up and I went: "Where are you?" And she went, "I dont know." That's what she said.'

The show put up photos of Terry's after the accident, with injuries including a black eye and a grisly forehead gash surrounded by a bruise.

'First of all, she wasn't drunk,' said Howie, who has been married to Terry since 1980; the pair are pictured together at Diana Ross' 75th birthday party in 2019

Howie first told the story on Live! With Kelly And Mark, where pictures were shown of Terry's face after her terrifying fall in Las Vegas

He first told the story of his wife's terrifying fall on Monday, saying that he went off to sleep not realizing that they had 'partied' to a degree that was 'too much' for Terry; pictured 2008

After the studio audience reacted in astonishment to the picture, Howie shared further details of how the night of the fall unfolded.

'I turn on the light, I look, I look around the bed. She's in the corner, face down, and I didn't know she'd cut her head. But blood is pooling,' he said.

'I freaked out. I picked her up, I put her on the bed. There's blood every[where],' he went on. 'I went and grabbed all the towels, and all the towels are covered with blood. And she's going: "Get me ice. Get me ice."'

Since there was no ice in the room, Howie tried to substitute a chilled soda can from the minibar, but Terry was in such pain that she flung the can away.

Then he attempted to make a makeshift icepack by wrapping two cold soda cans ina towel, but she hurled those away in agony as well.

'When she did that, I saw her head, and you could actually see her skull. It opened up,' he revealed to gasps from the crowd. 'I freaked.'

He dialed the front desk, asking them to call 911, but they declined to do so until the hotel staff could come upstairs and assess the situation for themselves.

Howie quipped that, with the blood and the soda cans scattered about, an onlooker might imagine that he had beaten Terry up himself.

He found himself begging with the hotel staffers to call emergency services, as they surveyed the room and took pictures of the evidence.

When she finally arrived at the hospital, Terry was still under the influence and began panicking and calling for a doctor - because she had drawn her sheets up over her face and was unable to see that the doctor was already in the room.
Naomi Watts put on a very loved-up display with her husband Billy Crudup as they enjoyed a beach date during their honeymoon in Tulum, Mexico last Thursday.

The actress exchanged vows with Billy in a simple courthouse ceremony last year and said 'I do' for a second time last week in a larger ceremony in Mexico.

The happy couple are now celebrating their second union on a sun-soaked honeymoon, and didn't shy away from showing their affections for one another.

Naomi and American actor Billy, both 55, were spotted packing on the PDA as they frolicked in the ocean.

The couple appeared to recreate Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr's iconic beach kissing scene in the 1953 classic From Here to Eternity as they passionately locked lips while having a swim.

Naomi Watts put on a very loved-up display with her husband Billy Crudup as they enjoyed a beach date during their honeymoon in Tulum, Mexico

On Thursday, Naomi and American actor Billy, both 55, were spotted packing on the PDA as they frolicked in the ocean

They couldn't keep their hands off one another as they cuddled and kissed in the water, looking as smitten as ever after their second nuptials

They couldn't keep their hands off one another as they cuddled and kissed in the water, looking as smitten as ever after their second nuptials.

Naomi showed off her incredible figure in a high-waisted orange patterned bikini, which she styled with sunglasses and a wide-brimmed straw hat.

Almost Famous star Billy cut a casual figure in black shorts and a dark T-shirt as he joined his wife for a loved-up swim in the sea.

The couple appeared to recreate Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr's iconic beach kissing scene in the 1953 classic From Here to Eternity as they passionately locked lips while having a swim

They were seen mirroring the famous scene as they smooched in the ocean

The pair went for a refreshing dip to cool off amid the balmy climes

The actress exchanged vows with Billy in a simple courthouse ceremony last year and said 'I do' for a second time last week in a larger ceremony in Mexico

Naomi showed off her incredible figure in a high-waisted orange patterned bikini

The couple tied the knot in a second ceremony surrounded by their loved ones in Mexico City last week, almost a year after their modest first nuptials at a New York courthouse.

Videos shared on social media by Naomi's brother Ben gave an insight into the lavish ceremony, with notable guests including Nicole Kidman and Isla Fisher.

British-Australian star Naomi looked every inch the blushing bride in a simple but elegant sleeveless off-white gown with a belted waist.

Meanwhile, Billy was very dapper in a traditional black suit as he exchanged vows with Naomi, who he started dating back in 2017.

She walked hand-in-hand with Billy as they soaked up the sun

Naomi styled her beachwear ensemble with sunglasses and a wide brimmed straw hat

She appeared joyous after her second nuptials

Almost Famous star Billy cut a casual figure in black shorts and a dark T-shirt

The couple tied the knot in a second ceremony (pictured) surrounded by their loved ones in Mexico City last week, almost exactly a year after their first nuptials at a US courthouse

Naomi's child Kai, 15, and niece Ruby were bridesmaids, and they wore champagne colored gowns for the occasion.

Also in the wedding party were Naomi's son Sasha, 16, and Billy's son William, 20, who both wore dark suits.

Naomi shares both her children with former partner Liev Schreiber, 56, while Billy shares William with ex-partner Mary Louise Parker, 59.

Other guests included Justin Theroux and his girlfriend Nicole Brydon Bloom.

The wedding was attended by notable celebrity guests including Nicole Kidman (pictured with Naomi) and Isla Fisher

The couple first announced that they had tied the knot in a simple courthouse ceremony in New York on June 10, 2023

At her rehearsal dinner, Naomi made a touching tribute to her husband as she gushed over their romance.

Holding Billy's hand, she told their guests: 'This is a reminder of what life's about, the affirmation of love. It's one of the simplest things, but one of the most important.'

The couple met on the set of 2017 Netflix series Gypsy, in which she starred as a therapist who uses an alias to develop close (and unethical) relationships with people intimately connected to her patients, while Billy played her husband.

The co-stars began a relationship later in 2017, a year after Naomi had split from her partner of 11 years, actor Liev.
June 19, 2024: U.S. SOCOM (Special Operations Command) uses a wide variety of weapons and equipment to get the job done for the army, air force, navy and marine contingents that provide the manpower for a large array of tasks.

For the navy this means building a series of fast, stealthy boats for use by SOCOM operators (specialized combat troops) to use when moving by sea. These craft include the CCH (Combat Craft Heavy). CCM (Combat Craft Medium) and CCA (Combat Craft Assault). The main difference between these three boats is that CCM is smaller and has an open rear deck while the larger CCH has a completely enclosed rear deck that enables smaller boats to be launched into the water to carry SOCOM teams to a nearby shore. Three CCHs have been ordered and at least one is operational. CCA is the smallest and has an open cabin. So far 32 CCAs have been built and more may be purchased. These boats are 18.6 meters long, with a speed of 72 kilometers an hour and a range of over 700 kilometers. There is a crew of four and up to 19 passengers or 3.5 tons of cargo.

The CCH is also known as Sealion and is 24 meters long, displaces 25 tons and has a top speed of 72 kilometers an hour. CCH has a crew of three and can carry twelve passengers or a 1.5 ton payload. Passengers and crew have shock resistant seats to help handle the bumpy ride as the CCH moves through the water at high speed. A CCH can be transported by a C-17 aircraft, which is designed to load and carry bulky and heavy cargo. CCHs can be launched from the well-deck of marine corps assault ships or from coastal positions using mobile travel lift and crane.

The first CCH was built a decade ago and three are now in service, with as many as five more on order. The CCH, CCM and CCA boats are constantly evolving to suit the developing needs of SOCOM operations. These boats are used to transport SOCOM operators and their equipment to shore quickly and usually at night to avoid detection.

Earlier Navy SOCOM developed and built some semi-submersible Alligator class boats. These were eventually transferred to Israel, which used them to land commandos at night on hostile shores in Lebanon or Gaza.
Chace Crawford stepped out in spring style on Tuesday while joining a screening of The Boys with his co-stars in New York City.

The 38-year-old actor wore a pastel blue short-sleeved knitted polo shirt along with tan trousers for the screening and conversation at 92NY.

The Texas native accessorized with a watch and sported a bit of facial stubble.

Chace portrays The Deep in the Amazon Prime Video series and was joined by his co-stars at the event.

Antony Starr, 54, who portrays Homelander, attended the special screening along with Colby Minifie, who plays Vought International executive Ashley Barrett.

Chace Crawford stepped out in spring style on Tuesday while joining a screening of The Boys in New York City

Colby, 32, wore an all-black outfit that included a long, sheer skirt.

Series newcomer Susan Heyward, 41, hit the right note in a sleeveless blue jumpsuit.

Susan portrays superhero Sister Sage, who possesses super-intelligence, and just joined the series as a main character for season four.

Valorie Curry, who also joined season four as Firecracker, wore a white crop top and matching trousers to the event.

Laz Alonso, 50, who plays Marvin T. "MM (Mother's Milk)" Milk, on the series also joined his co-stars at the event.

Josh Horowitz moderated a conversation with Antony, Colby, Susan, Valorie, Laz and Chace at 92NY.

The satirical superhero series The Boys was developed for TV by Eric Kripke and is based on the comic book of the same name by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson.

The Boys premiered in July 2019 on Amazon Prime Video followed by a second season that premiered in September 2020.

The 38-year-old actor wore a pastel blue short-sleeved knitted polo shirt along with tan trousers for the screening and conversation at 92NY

The Texas native accessorized with a watch and sported a bit of facial stubble

Antony Starr, 54, who portrays Homelander, attended the event

Colby Minifie, who plays Vought International executive Ashley Barrett, wore an all-black outfit that included a sheer skirt

Series newcomer Susan Heyward, 41, hit the right note in a sleeveless blue jumpsuit

Valorie Curry, who also joined season four as Firecracker, wore a white crop top and matching trousers to the event

Laz Alonso joined his co-stars Valorie, Antony, Susan, Colby and Chace on the carpet

Valorie spoke during the conversation portion

Josh Horowitz moderated a conversation with the stars of The Boys

Season three premiered in June 2022 and season four premiered on June 13.

The series was renewed in May for a fifth and final season.

The Boys also stars Karl Urban as Billy Butcher, Jack Quaid as Hughie Campbell, Erin Moriarty as Annie January aka Starlight, Jessie T. Usher as A-Train, Tomer Capone as Frenchie and Karen Fukuhara as Kimiko Miyashiro.

Jeffrey Dean Morgan, 58, joined season four as Joe Kessler, a CIA case officer who shares a past with Butcher.

The first three episodes of season four of The Boys was released on June 13 and its next episode will be available for streaming on Thursday.

The eight-episode penultimate season will conclude on July 18.
Jack Karlson became an Australian legend on October 11, 1991 when he was arrested while enjoying a 'succulent Chinese meal'.

And on Wednesday morning, more than 32 years later, the small-time crook sat for an interview alongside one of the police officers who arrested him, Stoll Watt.

The duo, who have become fast friends since the infamous incident, flipped the lid on what really happened that day, reported ABC News Breakfast.

Host Michael Rowland asked Karlson if the entire arrest was 'all a bit of performance art' as the part-time actor crossed in live from Brisbane.

'I suppose so. A bit hard to remember motives and that from going back that far,' Karlson responded.

Jack Karlson (pictured) became an Australian legend on October 11, 1991 when he was arrested while enjoying a 'succulent Chinese meal'

When recalling the events of that fateful day, Watt added: 'Jack's now a good mate of mine, but I have a different version of events to what actually occurred.

'There's a lot of different versions of the events. A lot of mysteries and misperceptions about the whole thing.

'But the main thing is Jack should have got an Academy Award and he's a good mate.'

Rowland, 55, went on to ask about one of Karlson's most iconic lines when he yelled, 'Get your hands off my penis!' as the police wrestled him into the back of a cop car.

'Was it true that an officer did grab you by the private parts or was that made up on the spot?' Rowland said.

And on Wednesday morning, more than 32 years later, the small-time crook sat for an interview alongside one of the police officers who arrested him, Stoll Watt (right)

Karlson responded: 'Probably made up. Can't remember.'

Watt then explained: 'Jack has since said that he exaggerated that one. But I must say, Jack would have made a good detective in a different line of work.'

Sunrise also aired a report Wednesday morning as a documentary is set to come out about Karlson and the arrest which shot him to national fame.

The Channel Seven breakfast show hosts reflected on reporter Chris Reason, now 58, who originally reported on Karlson's arrest in the early '90s.

Presenter Monique Wright revealed she received a text from Reason which read: 'I've been doing this job more than three decades now.

The duo, who have become fast friends since that historic day, flipped the lid on what really happened as 'democracy manifest', reported ABC News Breakfast

'Covered Mandela, Bosnia, Ukraine, 9/11, all anyone wants to talk to me about is bloody Mr Democracy Manifest!'

The legendary 'succulent Chinese meal' arrest happened on October 11, 1991 and was filmed by a Channel 7 news crew helmed by Reason.

Reason received a tip-off that Karlson was being arrested because he used a stolen credit card to settle his bill, it was later found to be a case of mistaken identity.

Nevertheless, the arrest was filmed by the Network Seven news television crew and has been watched millions of times since it was uploaded to YouTube in 2009.

The faded footage shows a bear-like man delivering a series of off-the-cuff Shakespearean lines as he is reluctantly dragged away from his lunch.

Almost a quarter of a century after that incident - now known as the 'Succulent Chinese Meal' video or 'Democracy Manifest' - Karlson's story has been told in a book called Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr Rent-a-Kill and the Australian Manson Murders, by Mark Dapin

'Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest!' Karlson booms at the camera. 'Get your hand off my penis!

'What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal? Ooh, that's a nice headlock, sir. Ah yes, I see that you know your judo well.'

The minute-long clip has since become the subject of countless memes and even has its own Wikipedia page.

After much speculation, the moustachioed man hauled off by cops was revealed to be small-time crook, part-time actor and full-time showman Karlson.

Decades later, Karlson's arrest story has been told in the book Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr Rent-a-Kill and the Australian Manson Murders by Mark Dapin.

Reporter Chris Reason, now 58, who covered the arrest back in 1991, recently said on Sunrise: 'I've been doing this job more than three decades now. Covered Mandela, Bosnia, Ukraine, 9/11, all anyone wants to talk to me about is bloody Mr Democracy Manifest!'

Karlson will also appear in an upcoming documentary titled The Man Who Ate A Succulent Chinese Meal.

Despite being wrongfully arrested, Karlson, who is now in his early eighties, has a long history being on the wrong side of the law.

He is known to have associations with some of Australia's most notorious crooks from the '70s to '90s, such as Mark 'Chopper' Read and gangster Neddy Smith.

Karlson has been locked up in prisons in Brisbane (Boggo Road), Sydney (Parramatta, Long Bay) and Melbourne (Pentridge), and escaped from custody three times.
Jude Law required an 'enormous' bum double for a sex scene as Henry VII in new movie Firebrand it's been revealed.

The actor, 51, was too slim to properly portray the 28st King during his later years and marriage to sixth and final wife Katherine Parr, played by Alicia Vikander.

This forced bosses to hire former IT manager Dale Farrow from Lincolnshire as his stand in.

During an appearance on WTF podcast Jude said the script described the King's bottom as 'enormous rolling buttocks'.

He confessed: 'In the time I had there was just no way I was going to be able to put on that weight'.

Jude Law, 51, required an 'enormous' bum double for a sex scene as Henry VII in new movie Firebrand it's been revealed (Jude pictured in the film)

The actor was too slim to properly portray the 28st King during his later years and marriage to sixth and final wife Katherine Parr, played by Alicia Vikander, forcing bosses to hire former IT manager Dale Farrow from Lincolnshire hired as his stand in

Jude admitted he struggled to put on enough weight for the part so the crew resorted to hiring a stand-in(Jude pictured)

'We gained weight in another way. The clothes were so huge, they were voluminous'.

He continued: 'We put on weights and padding and all sorts of things to create the scale and presence of the man.'

Before saying of the saucy scene: 'You don't see anything you wouldn't on Skegness beach.'

It comes after Jude said he tried to play against his good looks in his early twenties, joking that now he is in his fifties, he regrets not 'playing them up'.

The actor earned a reputation as a heartthrob and shot to global fame playing a slew of classically handsome characters.

He famously starred as the charming playboy Dickie Greenleaf in 1999's The Talented Mr Ripley, while playing romantic leads in films like The Holiday.

But his latest role in Firebrand, has seen him looking a world away from his usual attractive self, as he transformed into the repellent King.

Appearing on the June issue of DuJour magazine, Jude said that he found it 'satisfying' playing the royal, instead of his typical roles.

It comes after Jude said he tried to play against his good looks in his early twenties, joking that now he is in his fifties, he regrets not 'playing them up'

He famously starred as the charming playboy Dickie Greenleaf in 1999's The Talented Mr Ripley (pictured) while playing romantic leads in films like The Holiday

But his latest role in Firebrand, has seen him looking a world away from his usual attractive self, as he transformed into the repellent King (pictured in film left and earlier this year right)

Katherine Parr is played in the movie by Oscar winner Alicia Vikander

The Oscar nominee added that he had tried to play less attractive roles in his younger years, claiming he couldn't now as he was 'saggy and balding'.

He said: 'I didnt feel like I really ever leaned into playing handsome, but there were roles that required an attractive energy.

'I was trying to play against my looks in my early 20s, and now that Im saggy and balding, I wish I had played it up.'

Recently he has taken on different roles that 'have not leaned in to any sort of attraction'.

Jude admitted: 'Its been satisfying not having to turn that switch on.'

He previously revealed that he doused himself in an 'awful' bespoke scent during filming to play Henry VIII, made of 'blood, fecal matter and sweat'.

He said: 'I read several interesting accounts that you could smell Henry three rooms away. His leg was rotting so badly. He hid it with rose oil. I thought it would have a great impact if I smelt awful.'

He enlisted the help of a specialist parfumier, with Jude saying: 'She makes wonderful scents, and she also makes awful scents.

'She somehow came up with this extraordinary variety of blood, fecal matter and sweat. Initially, I used it very subtly. But then it became a spray fest.'

Director Karim admitted the effort was effective, saying: 'When he walked in on set, it was just horrible.'
Shirley Ballas has defended fellow Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice, calling him a 'perfect gentleman'.

For weeks executives have been investigating claims that professional dancer Giovanni, who recently lost his spot on the show, behaved 'abrasively' to his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington.

And now, head judge Shirley, 63, has hailed Giovanni, 33, saying they socialise outside of work and she has only had positive experiences with him.

Speaking at Q&A for her new crime novel, according to The Sun, she said: 'He is coming to my party on Sunday. You know, I can only talk from my own perspective.

'I have known Giovanni for ten years. He has always been to me,  and I will make that clear, to me  a perfect gentleman.

Shirley Ballas has defended fellow Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice , calling him a 'perfect gentleman'

Head judge Shirley, 63, has hailed Giovanni, 33, saying they socialise outside of work and she has only had positive experiences with him

For weeks executives have been investigating claims that Giovanni, who recently lost his spot on the show, behaved 'abrasively' to his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington

'I don't condone bullying on any path. But I don't believe gossip because things are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball.'

Shirley added that her mother Audrey 'loves' Giovanni and always makes time to say hello to them.

She said: 'It does not matter when he is on tour, or where he is or what he is doing, he will make his way across and he will say 'Lovely to see you Shirley. Lovely to see your mum.'

The TV personality said she will not judge anyone until the investigation has been fully carried out and added Giovanni 'will be missed' on the show this year.

Elsewhere, Shirley described Giovanni as a 'hard worker' who always tries his best.

She told Best magazine: 'I think everybody in the Strictly cast is fantastic and I've known Giovanni a long, long time. I've known him probably longer than a lot of people have known him and I can only talk from personal experience.

'He's got a work ethic that is the same as mine. He works hard and he wants the best for anybody who wants to learn. He's a true gentleman and, of course, he always looks drop-dead gorgeous.'

Shirley noted that Giovanni is an incredibly considerate person in general who goes out of his way to make someone feel 'super-special'.

Shirley said: 'I have known Giovanni for ten years. He has always been to me,  and I will make that clear, to me  a perfect gentleman'

She added: 'I don't condone bullying on any path. But I don't believe gossip because things are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball' (Giovanni, right, pictured with Anton Du Beke)

She added: 'He always puts his best foot forward and is always on time, he's one of those very thoughtful people. He called me the other day to invite my mum to a show he was doing because they love each other. As popular as he is, he will always try and make his way to any fan who wants to see him and will always make them feel super-special.'

Despite the furore, head judge Shirley has stood by the under-fire pro and will join him in hosting a number of dance classes in London next month.

Named Ballando, the one-day event is led by Shirley, Giovanni and Anton Du Beke as they share their expertise with fans.

Giovanni's absence from the Strictly line-up was revealed when the BBC shared the names of the professionals appearing this year.

This season will see the return of Amy Dowden , who was treated for breast cancer last year, alongside Dianne Buswell , Nadiya Bychkova, Graziano Di Prima, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez and Luba Mushtuk.

Joining them on the dancefloor are Jowita Przystal , Johannes Radebe , Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola.

The BBC also confirmed the return of judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel-Horwood and Anton Du Beke.

Executive producer Sarah James said in a statement: 'This year Strictly marks two decades of entertaining the nation and we will be back with a bang in September as we celebrate in style with our incredible team both on and off screen.'

Strictly head judge Shirley said: 'My feeling for Giovanni is, let them do this investigation or whatever it is they are doing and the truth will come out'

Despite the furore, head judge Shirley has stood by the under-fire pro and will join him in hosting a number of dance classes in London next month alongside Anton Du Beke

Giovanni returned to social media for the first time on Thursday after the BBC confirmed he would not be returning to the show

It comes after the Daily Mail revealed BBC bosses are 'furious' that leaks of confidential details of the probe have been made public.

It was reported that claims Giovanni would 'grab his crotch' when one of his partners did well have been heard by investigators.

The Sun newspaper also told how Amanda said her foot was bruised after Pernice stood on it.

BBC bosses are said to be 'concerned' and are wanting to find out how this information is being released.

They are also worried that the leaks mean that Giovanni, who quit Strictly in April after nine years, is being vilified by the public.

One insider at the corporation told the Mail: 'We are talking about a confidential, internal inquiry here yet there are several elements finding their way into the public domain now.

'While it isn't an HR issue, it is an investigation which the BBC are taking seriously.

'The bosses want to know why this is happening. They want to find the leak. If you are Giovanni here you might be thinking that this is highly unfair.

'It also seems quite rum that it is all anti-Giovanni. There is nothing coming out in his favour at all. It's all very strange.'

The inquiry began last month and the outcome is expected within a few weeks.

It all began when Amanda revealed to The Sun in January that she had got post-traumatic stress disorder after appearing on Strictly last year when she was paired with Pernice.

She also asked for video footage of her rehearsals with the Sicilian dancer.

After he was offered a contract to return to the series, which starts in September, Ms Abbington instructed London-based legal firm Carter-Ruck to represent her along with two other female stars who have appeared on Strictly.

The organisation is reportedly scouring nine years of footage from Strictly professional Giovanni's training sessions, as the explosive show scandal continues to rumble on

Three women, including actress Amanda Abbington (pictured), have hired 700-an-hour lawyers at leading London law firm Carter Ruck to pursue claims against Giovanni and the BBC

Ms Abbington reportedly met up with Laura Whitmore and Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh  also former partners of Pernice  to discuss his so-called bad behaviour.

Giovanni responded by hiring rival firm Schillings, which has represented royals such Prince Harry and Meghan, as well as J. K. Rowling and Ryan Giggs.

He has vowed not to be cancelled and is fully co-operating with the investigation. In the last fortnight he has begun to engage with the BBC. He expects to be exonerated.

In a statement, the dancer said: 'Giovanni is fully committed to clearing his name and defending his reputation against all false and misleading accusations against him.'

On Instagram yesterday Pernice, who is currently on tour across the country with Strictly star Anton Du Beke, branded allegations about his teaching methods 'simply false'.

He wrote: 'Every week, there are totally untrue stories about me in the media.

'As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false.

'I am co-operating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.

'As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.'

As the investigation into Giovanni 's alleged inappropriate behaviour continues the BBC have reportedly brought in two ex Met officers to conduct the interviews.

And it is understood they have already interviewed at least one female complainant, The Sun has revealed.

The other two are due to be seen in the coming days as the organisation continue to reportedly scour nine years of footage from Giovanni's training sessions.

A source told the publication: 'The BBC is taking this extremely seriously.

'Two ex-Met cops are conducting all the interviews and have been tasked with gathering evidence  including texts and screenshots  which they will present to corporation executives.

'Giovanni has not yet been spoken to.'

MailOnline have contacted Giovanni's representatives. The BBC chose not to comment when approached for a statement.

Giovanni returned to social media for the first time on Thursday after the BBC confirmed he would not be returning to the show.

The dancer shared a video to the Ballando Instagram account in which he could be seen taking charge in leading a series of group dance sessions.

Earlier this week a male celebrity reportedly joined the group of women making complaints about Giovanni 's behaviour (pictured with previous dance partner Ranvir Singh)

The Sicilian dancer is accused of 'threatening and abusive behaviour' while working with celebrity contestants on the show (pictured with Laura Whitmore in 2016)

Keeping his words to a minimum, he simply added three love heart emojis to the post - proving that he still has a passion for dance.

The dancer is set to return to the stage for his show - The Anton and Giovanni Together live tour - on Friday alongside Strictly judge Anton Du Beke.

The BBC's announcement of which dancers would be competing in this year's show is a routine procedure by show bosses and does not mark the end of the probe into Giovanni's behaviour.

A show insider said: 'Giovanni's case is very much ongoing. The announcement is circulated when Strictly have finalised the contracts of the pros who are able to compete.

'Giovanni's absence has been known for some weeks, he won't have anything to do with the 2024 season.

'But the investigation into his alleged wrongdoings will continue to develop alongside preparation for the upcoming series.'
Shannen Doherty has criticized ex-husband Kurt Iswarienko's spending habits in a new request for spousal support.

The 53-year-old former Beverly Hills, 90210 star filed paperwork in Los Angeles on Friday, June 14, according to Us Magazine.

In her filing, the actress is requesting $15,343 in monthly support 'retroactive to June 1, 2024.'

She has also asked that the 49-year-old photographer contribute $9,100 to her legal fees.

Doherty, who is facing a cancer battle, stated, 'As a result of my recurrent health issues, I have been largely unable to work and have no future employment prospects. Today, virtually all of the income I earn is residual income from work that I performed prior to marriage.'

Shannen Doherty has criticized ex-husband Kurt Iswarienko's spending habits in a new request for spousal support

The 53-year-old former Beverly Hills, 90210 star filed paperwork in Los Angeles on Friday, June 14, according to Us Magazine; the former spouses pictured in April 2012

She continued in the filing: 'The majority of my residual income is from a television show called Charmed.

'I recently learned that Charmed will no longer be streaming on any major streaming platform after June 30, 2024. As a result, my future residual income will dramatically decrease.'

It was also noted that the television star has not worked since 2022.

Shannen believes her ex-husband, to whom she was married from 2011-2023, has the resources to contribute to her medical expenses.

In 2023 the cost totaled $21,640 and she expects it will 'dramatically increase' when she is no longer granted SAG health insurance as a result of not working.

Doherty argued in court paperwork that Kurt has put his lifestyle above all else.

'While I have been unable to work, incurring exorbitant medical expenses not covered by insurance to undergo experimental treatments in hopes of prolonging my life, Kurt has been utilizing the airplane, spending thousands of dollars at medical spas, jewelry stores, Gucci, and on flights for his 'agent,' while simultaneously claiming that he has insufficient funds with which to support me,' she expressed.

The performer has alleged that Iswarienko's agent, Collier Grimm, is also his romantic partner.

Shannen believes her ex-husband, to whom she was married from 2011-2023, has the resources to contribute to her medical expenses but has prioritized his lifestyle instead; pictured in January 2012

'Although Kurts income is substantially more than mine, he has not made any temporary spousal support payments and has made no contributions to my attorneys or accounting fees and costs since the time our divorce action was filed,' Shannen stated.

It was also noted that Iswarienko has not provided the necessary documents to evaluate his earning capacity, assets and income.

She has subsequently filed a Motion to Compel.

The Hollywood veteran has requested another $11,800 from Iswarienko for the fees she says she's incurred 'in efforts to obtain Kurts complete responses.'

Doherty shared in the documents: 'It is abundantly clear to me that Kurt is intentionally delaying settlement in hopes that I will not survive the divorce proceedings.'

The now-exes together at a Stand Up To Cancer event in September 2016

Shannen is battling stage four brain cancer

Last year, Doherty announced that her cancer had spread to her brain in an Instagram post that showed her undergoing radiation therapy.

First diagnosed with breast cancer  which included the presence of multiple tumors  in 2015, the Charmed alum had a single mastectomy in May 2016.

It was followed by chemotherapy treatments and radiotherapy.

By 2017, Doherty announced that her cancer was in remission. But in February 2020, she revealed the cancer had returned in 2019, and that she was in stage four.
Fans of the iconic Channel Seven soap Home and Away have been left reeling over a controversial couple whose relationship is currently playing out on the series.

The characters, Mackenzie Booth (played by Emily Weir) and Levi Fowler (Tristan Gorey), began their relationship in secret while Levi was still married to Imogen Fowler (Georgia Blizzard).

Mackenzie and Levi's relationship blossomed after the doctor saved her from a heart attack.

Despite the show having several scandalous affairs over the years, fans are less than impressed with this storyline and have taken to social media to criticise the pair after they were complaining about the issues they've been through together.

'Was anyone else struggling every time Mac and Levi talked about "all they had been through" and "they deserve this", I mean really? Are they looking for sympathy?' one fan wrote in a Facebook group.

Home and Away fans have been left reeling over a controversial couple Mackenzie Booth (Emily Weir) and Levi Fowler (Tristan Gorey), both pictured, who began their relationship in secret while Levi was still married to Imogen Fowler (Georgia Blizzard)

Despite the show having several scandalous affairs over the years, fans are less than impressed with this storyline and have taken to social media to criticise the pair after they were complaining about the issues they've been through together

'Levi never respected his marriage. The fact that he took Mac to the fundraiser event was inappropriate, he totally acted like a free agent. Then when Bree came on to him, he never shut it down. I bet he is a serial cheater,' another added.

'Then Mac not wanting him to leave his wife, and enjoying the sneaking around. Now both of them acting like victims. He's lucky he got his stuff back, I would have dumped it at the tip! They both make me sick!'

Meanwhile, on Instagram, fans continued to rage about the affair.

Mackenzie and Levi's relationship blossomed after the doctor saved her from a heart attack

'Levi and Mac deserve everything that's coming to them Imogen deserves someone that will love her and treats her with respect,' one user commented on the show's page.

'If they cheat with you, theyll cheat on you. It never ends well!' added another.

'It's all getting a bit to messy. I think he should just go back to his wife,' someone else wrote.

In a clip posted last month, Mackenzie and Levi were spotted kissing on the beach by Justin Morgan (James Stewart).

'Pretty sure I saw Mackenzie kissing her doctor... Guess that's a thing now,' Justin says in the clip.

In episodes to come, Mackenzie and Levi are about to be embroiled in a dangerous 'nightmare', with Mali Hudson (Kyle Shilling) scrambling to rescue the new couple.
Kim Kardashian flaunted her curves in a figure-hugging ensemble as she left her Calabasas office on Monday - after ex-husband Kanye West skipped their daughter North West's 11th birthday.

The SKIMS founder, 43 - who recently snubbed the Heartless rapper on Father's Day - was seen standing next to a sleek, silver SUV as she prepared to head to her next destination.

The TV personality celebrated North's birthday in NYC over the weekend - although West, 47, was notably absent while gallivanting around Italy with his wife, Bianca Censori, 29.

Kim showcased her toned frame in a clinging, strapless white minidress that contained a hem that stopped inches above her knees.

She additionally slipped into a pair of open-toed, nude heels to allow the outfit to be the main focal point during the outing.

Kim Kardashian flaunted her curves in a figure-hugging ensemble as she left her Calabasas office on Monday - after ex-husband Kanye West skipped their daughter North West's 11th birthday

She showcased her toned frame in a clinging, strapless white minidress that contained a hem that stopped inches above her knees

Her long, platinum locks were parted in the middle, and effortlessly cascaded down straight past her shoulders.

The mother-of-four accessorized her look with a chunky bracelet on her left wrist, but opted to not add any other pieces of jewelry.

Kim's makeup was classically done, and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a light shadow around her eyes.

A warm blush and dewy highlighter was added to her cheekbones, while a nude-colored glossy tint was worn on her lips for a finishing touch.

The reality star was spotted near the driver's side of a car and at one point, flashed a quick smile as she glanced over her left shoulder before stepping inside.

Her latest outing comes shortly after the beauty returned from the Big Apple - where she celebrated her daughter North's 11th birthday along with a group of her close pals.

However, her father Kanye was not in attendance and was spotted just days earlier in Florence, Italy with wife Bianca Censori - who sported a very sheer dress without underwear underneath.

Over the weekend on Saturday, the group stopped by Paint Me Bear, an art studio located in the heart of Manhattan.

The TV personality recently celebrated North's birthday in NYC over the weekend - although West was notably absent while gallivanting around Italy with his wife, Bianca Censori; West and Censori seen earlier last week in Florence

She additionally slipped into a pair of open-toed, nude heels to allow the outfit to be the main focal point during the outing

Her long, platinum locks were parted in the middle, and effortlessly cascaded down straight past her shoulders

The mother-of-four accessorized her look with a chunky bracelet on her left wrist, but opted to not add any other pieces of jewelry

A warm blush and dewy highlighter was added to her cheekbones, while a nude-colored glossy tint was worn on her lips for a finishing touch

North - who officially turned 11 on Saturday - held an excited smile on her face as she strolled closely behind her mother to head to their next destination after a visit to Paint Me Bear.

North and her friends all sported pink 'I [heart] NY' pajama bottoms as well as matching, black shirts that had, 'North's 11th birthday party' printed on the front.

Kim was also joined by a few close pals of her own, including La La Anthony and media personality Kai Cenat during the birthday celebration.

During the festivities, they grabbed a quick bite at Joe's New York Pizza located in Greenwich Village - where Kim paused for fun selfie videos.

According to Page Six, The Kardashians star whisked herself, North and a group of her friends to the Big Apple in her private jet last week on Friday.

Upon arriving to the city, they made a stop at the popular eatery, Serendipity3, located on the Upper East Side and indulged in scrumptious treats, such as ice cream sundaes and frozen hot chocolate.

The group also sported different, matching pajamas that had 'I [heart] NW' on the front - mimicking the iconic 'I [heart] NY' shirts.

Also on Saturday, Kim penned a sweet birthday tribute to her eldest daughter which was uploaded to her main Instagram page, along with an assortment of throwback images.

The reality star was spotted near the driver's side of a car and at one point, flashed a quick smile as she glanced over her left shoulder before stepping inside

Her latest outing comes shortly after the beauty returned from the Big Apple - where she celebrated her daughter North's 11th birthday along with a group of her close pals

The following day on Sunday, The Kardashians star snubbed her ex, Kanye West, on Father's Day as she opted to stay silent on social media over the holiday.

The star was married to the rapper from 2014 until their divorce was finalized in November 2022. The former couple share daughters North, 11, and Chicago, six, as well as sons Saint, eight and Psalm, five.

It appears the last time the reality star paid tribute to West - who also goes by Ye - on Father's Day was back in 2021 amid their divorce.

Earlier this month during an episode of Hulu's The Kardashians, Kim got candid about single motherhood and admitted that she doesn't have 'support.'

While heading to jury duty, the TV personality called one of her close pals and said that she was a 'pushover' and wished she could be more 'strict' like her younger sister, Khloe.

At one point, she emotionally added, 'I don't have that support and that really sucks and I know I really have to like get it together.'

'You know, I'll always be there for my kids and I'll ride out anything with them, but to say that it doesn't take an emotional toll sometimes, would be lying.'

She later said, 'Sometimes it gets just like a little intense. I want to be more strict like Khloe but I don't know why I have a hard time just saying no is no. I think I also just don't want to deal with the whining and the tears of not getting their way.'

On Sunday, Kris Jenner also paid a Father's Day tribute on her main Instagram, and included a photo of Kanye in a collage of images.

The following day on Sunday, The Kardashians star snubbed her ex, Kanye West, on Father's Day as she opted to stay silent on social media over the holiday; seen in 2022 in Beverly Hills

The star was married to the rapper from 2014 until their divorce was finalized in November 2022. The former couple share daughters North, 11, and Chicago, six, as well as sons Saint, eight and Psalm, five

A few days earlier, Kanye West's wife, Bianca Censori, left little to the imagination in another very risque outfit on Thursday of last week.

The architect, 29, bared it all as she opted to go without underwear underneath a sheer cloak-like dress while enjoying a dinner date with the rapper at Il Palagio restaurant in Florence, Italy.

Meanwhile, in complete contrast, West wore a casual, covered-up outfit, sporting a white, long-sleeved top with pants and sneakers.

At one point during their meal, Censori got up and nearly flashed other diners as she walked to their table, strutting in embellished sandals with a tall, chunky heel.

This comes shortly after the couple took an economy flight to Tokyo, where Censori made a shocking display when she stepped out in a revealing thong leotard and showcased her backside during a shopping trip.

Also during the dinner on Thursday in Florence, West appeared to be checking her out as she passed by in front of him. He reportedly was also seen shooting videos of her walking around in her not-so-modest outfit.

Censori is no stranger to over-the-top risque and jaw-dropping fashion as she has often been seen wearing increasingly revealing looks since she married the 24-time Grammy winner in December 2022.

During the previous Italian trip in 2023, Censori wore a slew of eccentric outfits during the couple's getaway.

On Sunday, Kris Jenner also paid a Father's Day tribute on her main Instagram, and included a photo of Kanye in a collage of images

The architect, 29, bared it all as she opted to go without underwear underneath a sheer cloak-like dress while enjoying a dinner date with the rapper at Il Palagio restaurant in Florence, Italy; seen in February in Milan

No strangers to scandal, West and Censori continuously raised eyebrows over their choices in clothing, with Bianca's barely-there looks sparking fury from locals.

At the time her sheer and mesh outfits, which left her breasts clearly visible, were described by social media users as 'disrespectful' in a country known for its conservative Catholic heritage.

One of the infrequent, recent occasions was when she made the rare move of covering up in an opaque version of her sheer cloak dress at the airport in Japan.

That particular instance was their first public outing since West's former assistant filed a bombshell sexual harassment lawsuit against him.
Paris Hilton is ready to drop new music took and left little to the imagination promoting it on Instagram Tuesday.

The 43-year-old socialite  who recently called herself the 'It Girl blueprint'  flashed the flesh in a skimpy black vinyl outfit as she teased her upcoming single 'I'm Free.'

While singing the lyrics in front of a moody backdrop, Hilton struck poses in a strapless bra and matching thong bottoms.

She threw a matching motorcycle jacket over her shoulders that paired perfectly with her thigh-high boots.

Hilton also showed off her black manicure that drew attention to her leather gloves and wedding ring.

Paris Hilton is ready to drop new music took and left little to the imagination promoting it on Instagram Tuesday

She had on futuristic shades for the shoot and her bleach blonde hair flowed to her waist in straight strands.

'Me after responding "That's Hot" in a serious convo because I disassociated,' the video had written over it.

In the background of the post, the multihyphenate's latest release I'm Free featuring Rina Sawayama was playing.

Hilton penned in the caption to her 26.5million followers: 'ADHD working overtime Im Free ft. @rinasonline out this Friday! Presave in my bio .'

This jaw-dropping look comes just as the Simple Life star prepares to drop her sophomore album.

Paris will release her second album Infinite Icon on September 6 - her first in over two decades.

The socialite released her first self-titled album in 2006 and it spawned Turn It Up, Nothing In This World, and the cult hit Stars Are Blind.

She then released a series of non-album singles, including 2015's High Off My Love, 2018's I Need You, 2023's Hot One and, in April she released Fame Won't Love You in collaboration with Sia.

Paris told Rolling Stone in 2023 that the experience of creating her song Hot One made her want to make another album.

The 43-year-old socialite  who recently called herself the 'It Girl blueprint'  flashed the flesh in a skimpy black vinyl outfit as she teased her upcoming single 'I'm Free'

While singing the lyrics in front of a moody backdrop, Hilton struck poses in a strapless bra and matching thong bottoms

This jaw-dropping look comes just as the Simple Life star prepares to drop her sophomore album

Paris will release her second album Infinite Icon on September 6 - her first in over two decades; seen on June 13

She said: 'I was instantly inspired and knew we had to make this record. We went into Sunset Sound Studio and ended up recording 3 songs in just one day! It was magic!'

Hilton shares her children Phoenix, one, and London, six months, with her husband of three years, Carter Reum. They welcomed both children via surrogate.

The blonde beauty married the best selling author on November 11, 2021 after just two years of dating.

Hilton has been busy promoting her next musical era as she kicked off Pride Month with her Night Of 1000 Parises event before taking the stage for Alice + Olivia at their Pride celebration in NYC.
This video is no longer available

This video is no longer available

Karl Stefanovic was left 'worried' when an iconic guest appeared to fall asleep during a trainwreck interview on Wednesday's Today show.

The TV presenter, 49, and his co-host Sarah Abo became concerned while interviewing Australian legend Jack Karlson on the Nine Network show.

Karlson was famously arrested while enjoying a 'succulent Chinese meal' on October 11, 1991, and appeared on Today to discuss the incident more than 32 years on.

He joined the show via video link from Brisbane alongside one of the police officers who arrested him, Stoll Watt, who have become fast friends since the viral moment.

But the interview got off to a bumpy start as the two friends struggled to hear the show's hosts before things got even worse when Karlson appeared to fall asleep.

Karl Stefanovic was left 'worried' when an iconic guest appeared to fall asleep during an awkward segment on Wednesday's Today show

About two minutes into the chat, Karlson closed his eyes as Watt spoke and didn't open them again for more than a minute as the conversation carried on.

When Stoll finished speaking, Stefanovic said: 'I just got a little worried there, Jack might've nodded off like Weekend at Bernies. You still with us, Jackie boy?'

Karlson, who is now in his eighties, then opened his eyes and rejoined the conversation, with Stefanovic and Abo trying not to laugh.

Things took another turn when Stefanovic then asked 'Mr Democracy Manifest' how he 'got off' after his arrest, but Karlson didn't understand what he meant.

Stefanovic then clarified that he was asking how he avoided going to jail, prompting Karlson to reply: 'Oh, they realised that I wasn't the person they were looking for.'

The TV presenter, 49, and his co-host Sarah Abo were left concerned while interviewing Australian legend Jack Karlson on the Nine Network show

Around two minutes into the chat, Stefanovic closed his eyes as Watt spoke and didn't open them again for more than a minute, prompting concern from the hosts

Karlson and Watt have appeared on a string of chat shows promoting a new documentary based on Jack's life, called The Man Who Ate A Succulent Chinese Meal.

The duo appeared on ABC News Breakfast earlier on Wednesday to lift the lid on what really happened on the now-infamous day more than 32 years ago.

Host Michael Rowland asked part-time actor Karlson if the entire arrest was 'all a bit of performance art'.

'I suppose so. A bit hard to remember motives and that from going back that far,' he responded.

When recalling the events of that fateful day, Watt added: 'Jack's now a good mate of mine, but I have a different version of events to what actually occurred.

Karlson was famously arrested (pictured) while enjoying a 'succulent Chinese meal' on October 11, 1991, and appeared on Today to discuss the incident more than 32 years on

'There's a lot of different versions of the events. A lot of mysteries and misperceptions about the whole thing.

'But the main thing is Jack should have got an Academy Award and he's a good mate.'

Rowland, 55, went on to ask about one of Karlson's most iconic lines when he yelled, 'Get your hands off my penis!' as the police wrestled him into the back of a cop car.

'Was it true that an officer did grab you by the private parts or was that made up on the spot?' Rowland said.

Karlson responded: 'Probably made up. Can't remember.'

Watt then explained: 'Jack has since said that he exaggerated that one. But I must say, Jack would have made a good detective in a different line of work.'

The duo, who have become fast friends since that historic day, flipped the lid on what really happened as 'democracy manifest', reported ABC News Breakfast

The legendary 'succulent Chinese meal' arrest happened on October 11, 1991 and was filmed by a Channel 7 news crew helmed by Reason.

Reason received a tip-off that Karlson was being arrested because he used a stolen credit card to settle his bill, it was later found to be a case of mistaken identity.

Nevertheless, the arrest was filmed by the Network Seven news television crew and has been watched millions of times since it was uploaded to YouTube in 2009.

The faded footage shows Karlson delivering a series of off-the-cuff Shakespearean lines as he is reluctantly dragged away from his lunch.

'Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest!' Karlson booms at the camera. 'Get your hand off my penis!

Karlson and Stoll Watt - one of the police officers who arrested him on the now-viral day - have appeared on a string of chat shows promoting a new documentary based on Jack's life

'What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal? Ooh, that's a nice headlock, sir. Ah yes, I see that you know your judo well.'

The minute-long clip has since become the subject of countless memes and even has its own Wikipedia page.

After much speculation, the man hauled off by cops was revealed to be small-time crook, part-time actor and full-time showman Karlson.

Decades later, Karlson's arrest story has been told in the book Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr Rent-a-Kill and the Australian Manson Murders by Mark Dapin.

Karlson will also appear in an upcoming documentary titled The Man Who Ate A Succulent Chinese Meal.

Decades later, Karlson's arrest story has been told in the book Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr Rent-a-Kill and the Australian Manson Murders by Mark Dapin

The viral sensation will also appear in an upcoming documentary, titled The Man Who Ate A Succulent Chinese Meal.

Karlson is a talented painter and actor who starred in a music video for punk rock band The Chats and appeared as an extra in classic Australian television dramas Homicide, Division 4 and Matlock Police.

Karlson is also known to have had associations with some of Australia's most notorious crooks from the '70s to '90s, such as Mark 'Chopper' Read and gangster Neddy Smith.

He has been locked up in prisons in Brisbane (Boggo Road), Sydney (Parramatta, Long Bay) and Melbourne (Pentridge), and escaped from custody three times.
She's become a bonafide social media star after collaborating with some well-known brands.

And Snezana Wood's 19-year-old daughter Eve Victoria looked every inch the off-duty beauty as she stepped out with her mum to run errands on Wednesday.

The mother-daughter duo both donned grey tracksuit pants as they were seen out and about in Melbourne, heading to an Officeworks store to collect printed photos.

Eve, who is on track to becoming a successful influencer, wore dark grey loose-fitted sweatpants and a matching cropped zip-through hoodie.

She paired her look with black sneakers and wore thin-framed reading glasses, while accessorising with hoop earrings, necklaces and bangles.

Snezana Wood 's 19-year-old daughter Eve Victoria looked every inch the off-duty beauty as she stepped out with her mum to run errands

The mother-daughter duo both donned grey tracksuit pants as they were seen out and about in Melbourne on Wednesday

The rising model had her light brown hair tied back into a low bun with a middle part and carried a black woven leather handbag over one shoulder, plus a bag of cheese and bacon rolls from Baker's Delight.

Meanwhile, Snezana echoed her daughter's look in a pair of light grey Marle trackpants.

The former Bachelor star, 43, kept warm in a white long-sleeved top underneath an oversized black coat.

The pair were seen crossing the road after heading to an Officeworks store to collect printed photos

She was all smiles while sporting her dark brunette locks in her signature short bob and was seen carrying photos and a water bottle.

The mother-of-four, whose memoir Untold is expected to hit bookshelves later this month, shares daughter Eve with her first husband.

Snezana went on to have three more children - Willow, seven, Charlie, five, and Harper, two - with 44-year-old Sam Wood.

Eve, who is on track to becoming a successful influencer, wore dark grey loose-fitted sweatpants and a matching cropped zip-through hoodie

Snezana was all smiles as she echoed her daughter's look in a pair of light grey Marle trackpants

The former Bachelor star, 43, kept warm in a white long-sleeved top underneath an oversized black coat

Snezana's 19-year-old daughter has become a bonafide social media star after collaborating with some well-known brands

Eve soft-launched her modelling career in 2023 before she graduated from high school.

At the time, she tagged a popular bikini brand in one of her Instagram posts.

The talented teen looked every inch the professional model as she posed in the Vinca-Savoca bikini by the Aussie label Triangl.

In March 2022, Snezana revealed her daughter was working towards a career in fashion when the two attended the Melbourne Fashion Festival.

Sharing a photo of the pair, Snezana wrote: 'Mother-daughter date night with @eve.vict who is working towards a career in fashion is absolutely killing it.'

The teenager's Instagram bio listed her as a 'model' at the time, but this has since been updated to 'digital creator'.
Sonia Kruger and Kerri-Anne Kennerly showed off their ageless beauty on Wednesday as they stepped out at a Sydney luncheon.

The pair pulled out all the stops as they led the arrivals at the annual Mercedes-Benz Sydney Women in Business event, with this year's theme exploring timeless classics - embracing womanhood at every age.

The Voice Australia's Sonia, 58, looked stunning and incredibly youthful in an all-white monochrome outfit as she took on hosting duties.

She made sure to turn heads in a stylish blazer and matching tailored white trousers by Melbourne designer Viktoria & Woods.

She teamed the chic suit with a sheer white corset and clear Perspex heels.

Sonia accessorised with a few staple pieces of silver jewellery, including an array of chunky rings and a simple watch.

The media personality, who shares daughter Maggie with long-term partner, former 7 News director Craig McPherson, let her natural beauty shine through with a nude lip and bronzed eye-shadow.

She twisted her blonde locks into a soft curls which fell around her shoulders.

Sonia Kruger, 58, (left) and Kerri-Anne Kennerly, 70, (right) looked every inch the age-defying beauties on Wednesday as they stepped out at a Sydney luncheon

The Voice Australia's Sonia, 58, looked stunning and incredibly youthful in an all-white monochrome outfit as she took on hosting duties

She made sure to turn heads in a stylish blazer and matching tailored white trousers by Melbourne designer Viktoria & Woods

Hottest with the mostess Sonia welcomed guests at the the event with some inspiring words and some absolute zingers, including a joke about being Rupert Murdoch's 'third wife'.

She then compared the beauty of a brand new Mercedes-Benz to her hunky Dancing with the Stars co-host Dr Chris Brown.

'... I love being a friend of his because, let's be honest, everyone wants that good-looking friend who has style and class that they're happy to be seen with in public,' she said.

'For me it's a bit like being friends with Dr Chris Brown, but I can't lock him up in my garage at night.'

Sonia then shared her top tips for success with a sprinkling of satire.

'To find success, you need to follow some simple steps, these have always worked for me,' she told the crowd.

'Number one - You catch more flies with honey than you can be the vinegar.

'Number two - Be the visionary. Did anyone say to Marie Curie, aren't you worried about what your husband will say? Of course not.'

'Number three - You don't need male approval, so don't seek it out.

'I imagine the last man who told a woman to calm down is still having lunch through a straw,' she said, drawing laughs from the crowd.

'Number four - work/life balance,' she added.

Sonia accessorised with a few staple pieces of silver jewellery, including an array of chunky rings and a simple watch

The media personality, who is shares daughter Maggie with long-term partner, former News director Craig McPherson, let her natural beauty shine through with a nude lip and bronzed eye-shadow

Elsewhere, TV icon Kerri-Anne, 70, looked effortlessly chic in form-fitting Balmain black jumpsuit.

She paired her designer ensemble with Chanel necklaces and gold sparkly Giuseppe Zanotti stilettos.

The media veteran finished her look by styling her blonde tresses into a chic long bob.

Kerri-Anne added a pop of colour with some bright red nail polish.

Meanwhile, TV icon Kerri-Anne, 70, looked effortlessly chic in form-fitting Balmain black jumpsuit

Looking decades younger than her years, the Logie Hall of Fame inductee stood out from the rest

She paired her ensemble with Chanel necklaces and gold sparkly Giuseppe Zanotti stilettos

Madeline Holtznagel sizzled in olive leather belted jacket and black mini skirt

Jules Robinson and Michelle Bridges looked nailed chic winter dressing

Daily Mail columnist Jana Hocking was ravishing in red

She attended the event with socialite Hollie Nasser who looked incredible in a Prada knitted midi dress

Top models Sam Harris, left, and Natalie Roser, right, also attended the event

Kristin Fisher, right, rocked the sheer black tight trend teamed with a mini skirt and crop top as she attended the event with cosmetic nurse Kirsten Eliza, left

Justin Hemmes' stunning girlfriend Madeline Holtznagel, 27, looked like she stepped off the runway in an olive leather belted jacket teamed with a mini skirt and sheer tights.

She arrived solo and caught up with her model pal Montana Cox over a scrumptious three-course lunch and Moet Champagne.

She was meant to attend the event with her sister Simone, but the blonde beauty was busy with mum duties, looking after her baby daughter Gia.

Former Married At First Sight star and successful entrepreneur Jules Robinson, who is expecting her second child with husband Cam Merchant, was absolutely glowing and showed off her growing baby bump in a black velvet suit teamed with a stylish white shirt.

Sydney eyebrow queen Kristin Fisher also rocked the sheer black tight trend with a mini skirt and crop top as she attended the soiree with cosmetic nurse Kirsten Eliza.

Meanwhile, Daily Mail columnist Jana Hocking was ravishing in a red mini dress as she had a ball with her good friend, socialite Hollie Nasser.

The Women in Business Luncheon presented by Mercedes-Benz Sydney is part of the brand's commitment to empowering women in various industries and the enhancement of their networks, careers and opportunities
Elsa Pataky showed off her incredible figure as she stripped down to her swimwear for a sunscreen advert on Wednesday.

The Spanish actress, 47, took to her Instagram Stories to give glimpse at some stunning shots of herself posing up a storm for a beach photoshoot.

Elsa, who is married to Chris Hemsworth, showed off her incredible figure in a black sporty racer-back swimsuit as she splashed around in the shallows.

She showed off her good looks with a natural make-up look and let her golden locks cascade loosely across her shoulders.

The model appeared in good spirits as she flashed a smile while heading into the sea with her surfboard for the advert.

Elsa Pataky showed off her incredible figure as she stripped down to her swimwear for a Biotherm sunscreen advert on Wednesday

The post came as part of Elsa's paid partnership with Biotherm as she advertised the skincare brand's 'waterlover sunmilk' - a sun cream made for added protection in the water.

It is not the first time Elsa has worked with the brand as she has previously attended events for Biotherm in Madrid.

As well as her modelling career, Elsa also recently took on two small roles in her husband Chris' latest movie, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.

She had two cameos in the film, first as Vuvalini General, who helps Furiosa's mother Mary Jabassa (Charlee Fraser) go after her young daughter when she is kidnapped.

It is not the first time Elsa has worked with the brand as she has previously attended events for Biotherm in Madrid (pictured)

She later in the film played a strikingly different character as she reappeared as Mr. Norton, a member of the evil biker gang led by Dementus (Chris).

In her second role, she looked almost unrecognisable as she sported crooked yellow teeth and staples across her forehead to portray the formidable character.

Chris recently gave an insight into what it was like filming with his wife, describing it as like a 'date' because they had time away from their kids.

'It's kinda like date night for us because we have three kids,' he told E! News during the Cannes Film Festival. 'Going to work together is when we get some alone time.'

As well as her modelling career, Elsa also recently took on two small roles in her husband Chris' latest blockbuster, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, looking almost unrecognisable in character

Chris and Elsa, who tied the knot in 2010, share daughter India, 12, and twin sons Sasha and Tristan, 10.

Furiosa tells the origin story of a young Imperator Furiosa over a 15-year period - much different from Fury Road which spanned three days in the Mad Max wasteland.

The latest Mad Max epic was filmed in New South Wales in 2022 and was expected to become the biggest movie ever to be made in Australia.

However, the prequel is fighting to break even on its USD$168million (AUD$251million) budget, despite a huge marketing campaign.
South African music artist Tyla demonstrated admirable professionalism on Tuesday as she pushed through her performance at Spotify Beach in Cannes, France after enduring a slight injury.

The 22-year-old songstress had to delay the show after getting nail glue in one of her eyes.

When she eventually made it to the stage, she told the audience, 'I went to the hospital, I came back,' per Page Six.

She added, 'A lot happened, but Im here and Im going to have fun with you guys. The energy is amazing.'

The event, part of Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, also saw sets from Shaboozey and John Legend.

South African music artist Tyla demonstrated admirable professionalism on Tuesday as she pushed through her performance at Spotify Beach in Cannes, France after enduring a slight injury

The 22-year-old songstress had to delay the show after getting nail glue in one of her eyes

She also used Instagram, where she boasts 7.2 million followers, to relay her message to fans

She also used Instagram, where she boasts 7.2 million followers, to relay her message to fans.

Sharing footage from her performance via Instagram Stories, she wrote, 'Got nail glue in my eye, rushed to hospital to get it removed. Had sound issues. But still served.'

The star wrapped up the note: 'I'm back n betta.'

For the event, the petite musician showed off her toned legs in a cargo skirt with a folded over waistband.

The fashionista also wore scanty, black, sleeveless bodysuit with wide cutouts and a multicolor triangle bra top.

The young beauty accessorized with colorful hoop earrings, bangels, and an understated gold-toned necklace.

Her golden-blonde hair was arranged in a shaggy, round-shaped, curly bob.

The Water hitmaker reposted clips from fans who attended the show, writing over one snippet that showed her passing the mic to concertgoers: 'If you in [the] front [row] I'mma make you sing.'

The Water hitmaker reposted clips from fans who attended the show, writing over one snippet that showed her passing the mic to concertgoers: 'If you in [the] front [row] I'mma make you sing'

For the event, the petite musician showed off her toned legs in a cargo skirt with a folded over waistband

Per Page Six's account, Tyla  full name Tyla Laura Seethal  said she recognized 'familiar faces' in the audience.

'So, we going to have a party tonight, OK?' she said as she interacted with the crowd, which was reportedly filled media pros.

Tyla performed songs from her self-titled debut album, which was released on March 22.

Her energetic show included six backup dancers and before she left the stage, she said 'You guys are amazing. Thank you so much for waiting!'
Skye Wheatley has been forced to apologise to her followers after recommending a 'scam' to her 600,000 followers.

The I'm A Celebrity! Australia 2024 winner, 30, took to Instagram on Wednesday to claim that an account she recommended to her fans was actually a con.

She shared a message from one follower who had fallen victim to the alleged scam as she warned her fans to avoid anything she said about the account.

It comes just weeks after Skye revealed how she had bought eye drops from a medical clinic in Thailand which didn't work in another shock scam confession.

The internet personality has had an unfortunate run with alleged scams after she also she suffered from a botched boob job in Thailand back in 2015.

Skye Wheatley has been forced to apologise to her followers after recommending a 'scam' to her 600,000 followers

In her latest 'scam' run-in, Skye begged her fans to ignore her recommendation of the account and said she hadn't 'rationally' thought about the post due to her ADHD.

The former Big Brother star shared a screenshot of an account offering engineering services which she alleged had scammed her after she tried to get help from them in restoring her taken-down TikTok account.

Detailing her error, she shared: 'I feel really bad now because I'm going through some s**t and I'm like oh my f**king God, I shouldn't have posted what I posted.

'But because of my ADHD I have what my mum calls knee-jerk reactions so I do things without thinking it through realistically and rationally.'

She claimed the account was recommended to her by one of her followers, who said they had helped her to restore her account after she was 'banned'.

The former Big Brother star shared a screenshot of an account which she alleged had scammed her after she tried to get help from them in restoring her taken-down TikTok account

Skye went on to apologise as she shared a message exchange with a fan who revealed that her boyfriend had fallen victim to the alleged scam artist.

'Sorry for posting guys,' Skye captioned a screenshot of her exchange with her follower as she apologised for her recommendation.

She continued: 'Now I haver to live with this guilt, if he took anyone else's money.

'F*** I feel sick to my stomach. I 100 per cent thought he was going to help me. It's a scam guys and I paid him $300.'

Her latest unfortunate run-in comes after Skye was reportedly scammed after buying eye drops from an apparent medical clinic in Thailand after finding them on TikTok.

Skye went on to apologise as she shared a message exchange with a fan who revealed that her boyfriend had fallen victim to the alleged scam artist

She was trying to treat her pinguecula, a harmless yellowish raised growth on the white part of the eye which can cause redness and irritation. It is thought to be caused by exposure to sun, wind and dust.

Skye used the product she bought from Thailand for five months without any results and realised it might have been a scam after she got no answer from the clinic on the phone.

Sisters Amy, Sophie & Kate Taeuber spoke about the ordeal on their podcast, Outspoken, and questioned Skye for trusting medical advice from TikTok.

'I just find it crazy that she used the eye drops for five months, it made me feel really ill when I heard that,' they shared.

'Not to victim blame, but I cannot believe she purchased from this TikTok, it looked like such a scam.'

It comes after Skye reportedly bought eye drops from an apparent medical clinic in Thailand after finding them on TikTok.

The hosts explained that Skye has an eye specialist in Australia but has been told the condition isn't bad enough for surgery, leaving her looking for other solutions.

In 2015, Skye also she suffered from a botched boob job in Thailand which left her with a 'double bubble' - when a breast implant sits lower than the original breast fold.

She got another breast enhancement late last year after spending years trying to fix the botched surgery, which she had after cutting a promotional deal with a medical tourism company in Thailand.

After the botched surgery, Skye wanted bigger implants inserted to save herself from having to get a breast lift to try and fix her 'double bubble'.

Taking to her Instagram Stories in December, the Big Brother star said she was happy with the results of her second surgery to fix the botched boob job.

In 2015, Skye also she suffered from a botched boob job in Thailand which left her with a 'double bubble' and she has since got corrective surgery

Ahead of the fix, she said: 'It's time, we are getting the girls revamped next week, I am going to see Dr Richardson, he had so many photos on his page of boobies which I loved looking at.

'The plan is I have to go a little bigger to avoid the lift, I wish I could show you all the problem but I am doing that with girls in my DMs so if you want to see a picture or video of my boobies DM me, we will exchange piccies of our boobies.'

Skye said she was getting 500cc implants, which is on the upper range of large, according to The Aesthetics Society.

She continued: 'So my right breast is 425cc and left is 350cc and I honestly feel like they look same size so going 75ccs bigger won't make too much of a difference.

In 2015, Skye travelled to Thailand to have her breasts enlarged as part of a promotional deal with a medical tourism company.

Skye had travelled to Thailand to have her breasts enlarged as part of a promotional deal but was left with a 'double bubble' - when an implant sits lower than the original breast fold

She had claimed for years that she didn't like her uneven breasts, with one measuring at an A-cup and the other at a C-cup.

The model had hoped the augmentation would fix her asymmetrical chest - but after waking up the next day with D-cups, she complained of puckering in the crease below the right breast.

Previously speaking to Daily Mail Australia about the ordeal, she warned young girls not to be lured by the promise of cheap plastic surgery abroad, saying: 'Don't, it's not worth it, stay in Australia.'

'If something goes wrong you have to pay for another flight to more costs to get it fixed. Do your research, I wish I had done mine better,' she went on.

'I want my old boobs back as it will cost too much to fix and will be so much hassle than if I had got them done in Australia.'
General Hospital has leapt to the defense of its actress Tabyana Ali after she was lambasted by racist trolls on social media.

The 22-year-old joined the soap opera in 2022, taking over the role of Trina, whose previous actress left the show in order to devote her full energy to college.

In recent months Tabyana, who is black, has been deluged with vicious online comments targeting her for her ethnicity.

Earlier this month she issued her own response, graciously writing that she was 'sending you peace, safety, and prosperity.'

Now the Instagram account for General Hospital has put out a statement saying: 'General Hospital does not tolerate hatred or bigotry of any kind. Racism has no place in Port Charles. #GH is for everyone.'

General Hospital has leapt to the defense of its actress Tabyana Ali after she was lambasted by racist trolls on social media; Tabyana pictured this month at the Daytime Emmys

Port Charles is the fictional city in New York State that serves as the setting for General Hospital, the longest-running soap opera still on the air.

The statement from the show comes less than two weeks after Tabyana delivered her response to the trolls on X, formerly known as Twitter.

'To anyone that hates me. That's absolutely fine. I don't know you and you don't me but regardless I'm sending you peace, safety, and prosperity...,' she wrote.

'I also pray you touch some grass, see the sun, eat a delicious meal, and find something to do. Peace and love,' she concluded.

A couple of hours later she returned to the platform to provide her take on how one should cope with being the target of racist remarks.

'Okay this is the last time I'm going to speak on this today but we cannot be feeding in to peoples hate. We cannot be giving it back,' she argued.

'We cannot stoop to rude/racist people's level. It doesn't help. We are fighting too many wars as it is. I believe we will have our world peace But we got to find another way to fight,' Tatyana continued in a four-part thread.

'I've realized ignoring doesn't help but neither does giving the energy back. We're going in circles and that doesn't get us anywhere. Everybody might not agree with me but thats okay. I just want to let "those" people know, I see you,' she added.

Earlier this month she issued her own response, graciously writing that she was 'sending you peace, safety, and prosperity'; she is pictured on General Hospital with Nicholas Chavez

The 22-year-old joined the soap opera in 2022, taking over the role of Trina, whose previous actress Sydney Mikayla left the show for college; Sydney pictured on the show

'And Im sorry that this is the away you feel like you have to be seen. I'm sorry that life isn't happening how you want,' Tabyana noted.

'But if you found something you loved to do other than hurting people. You would never have the energy to say what you've been saying to people ONLINE!'

She went on: 'I promise life is more beautiful and peaceful and full when you give people and yourself LOVE. I pray you don't meet God and find yourself disappointed when he shows you the life you could've had, if all you had to do was stop giving out that type of energy and just went OUTSIDE!'

General Hospital has been on the air since 1963, with countless characters wafting in and out of the medical drama's universe in Port Charles, New York.

The character of Trina Robinson was first introduced to the show in 2017 and was initially played by Tiana Le, followed by Sydney Mikayla.

Trina is a fun-loving teenager and the warmhearted best friend of Josslyn Jacks, a character played by Eden McCoy.

Sydney announced in March 2022 that she was leaving the show so that she would be able to dedicate her full attention to college.

'I have loved working on General Hospital, but I feel like this is the right time to dive in and enjoy my college experience to the fullest,' she told Soap Opera Digest.

'The cast has become family and bringing the character of Trina to life has been one of the best experiences of my career thus far.'
Gold Coast influencer Kat Clark has candidly opened up about her harrowing past with domestic violence.

The mother-of-two, 38, detailed her time in women's shelters in an emotional video posted on Instagram.

'When I left my abusive relationship, Taisha (eldest daughter Latisha) was only two years old. I remember getting on the train and I was so scared,' she recounted.

'By that point I was spending every weekend at women's shelters and calling hotlines almost every single day,' she recounted.

Clark previously told NewsCorp Australia that at 17, she found herself pregnant and isolated from her religious family in Brisbane.

Gold Coast influencer Kat Clark, 38, (pictured) has candidly opened up about her harrowing experience with domestic violence

She moved to Thursday Island with her then partner.

As the violence escalated, Clarke moved to Cairns for work, saving money to buy a burner phone and reconnect with her support network in Brisbane.

Despite relying on government payments, Clark revealed she made a promise to herself to support other women in similar situations once she was back on her feet.

'I remember thinking, 'when I get my life back on track, I'm going to give back to these organisations

The mother-of-two detailed her time in women's shelters in an emotional video posted on Instagram

'I was on government payments, so I didn't know how or when, but it was a promise I kept to myself,' she explained.

Now a successful influencer with 6.2 million TikTok followers, Clark hosts the podcast Basically Besties and runs the skincare brand Kalade with her daughters Latisha, 21, and Deja, 13, which launched four months ago.

Kalade recently donated $5000 to the Small Steps for Hannah charity, a cause close to Clark's heart.

'When I left my abusive relationship, Taisha (eldest daughter Latisha) was only two years old. I remember getting on the train and I was so scared,' she recounted

The charity, which raises awareness about coercive control and domestic violence, was named after Hannah Clarke, who attended the same school as Kat.

Hannah and her three young children were tragically killed by her estranged husband Rowan Baxter in a horrific attack in Brisbane in February 2020.

The Kalade website highlights Clark's personal connection to the charity.

Despite relying on government payments, Clark revealed she made a promise to herself to support other women in similar situations once she was back on her feet

'Hannah Clarke went to the same school as Kat and was a part of the Brisbane South community that both Kat and Jonathan grew up in,' the website reads.

'In addition to this, Kat has a very personal and tactile relationship with domestic violence -these two points, among many others, is what makes Hannah's and her children's story hit so close to home and touch us in a very special way.'

'When Kalade was envisaged, we always wanted to use our brand to give back to the community and bring awareness to issues that resonate with us on a personal level. Small Steps for Hannah was the obvious choice.'
Reese Witherspoon recently shocked an A-list crowd with her uncanny impression of her close friend Nicole Kidman's Australian accent.

The Legally Blonde star, 48, was presenting at the AFI Life Achievement Award Gala Tribute to Nicole Kidman, when she stunned the crowd with her remarkable impression.

The ceremony was a private event held in Los Angeles on Saturday, April 26, and it was finally broadcast on television earlier this week.

Reese looked absolutely radiant in a plunging black gown as she took to the stage to present a glowing tribute to her Big Little Lies co-star, 56, and shared some hilarious words with the crowd.

'As an actress, Nicole has always been proactive with her work. She'll often talk about a foreign movie that is completely out there,' Reese began.

Reese Witherspoon (pictured) recently shocked an A-list crowd with her uncanny impression of her close friend Nicole Kidman's Australian accent. The Legally Blonde star, 48, was presenting at the AFI Life Achievement Award Tribute to Kidman, when she stunned the crowd

The blonde beauty then performed a pitch perfect impression of Nicole's refined Australian accent: 'Do you see that director? Reese, it's incredible, we must get her, we must!'

Nicole and her husband Keith Urban were seen laughing and then cringing at Witherspoon's hilarious imitation of her accent, as Kidman looked embarrassed and hid her face in her hands.

US broadcaster TNT Drama shared a clip of the amusing event to social media and captioned it with some hilarious words: 'Reese Witherspoon does one hell of a Nicole Kidman impression.'

Kidman was supported by her husband Keith and their daughters Sunday and Faith at the event in April.

The Australian actress had raved the AFI honour was 'beyond my wildest dreams' when she was announced as the recipient.

Nicole Kidman and her husband Keith Urban were seen laughing and cringing at the hilarious impression

An embarrassed Nicole was spotted hiding her face in her hands after Reese stunned the crowd with the cheeky impression

Nicole and Reese co-star in the HBO series Big Little Lies, based on the novel by Australian Liane Moriarty

Meanwhile, Nicole recently revealed she and Reese were 'moving fast and furious' on Big Little Lies season three, which they both first appeared in together in 2017.

Based on a novel by Australian author Liane Moriarty, the HBO show was initially meant to be a one-season miniseries, but was such a runaway success with fans and critics that it received a second season, and now has yet another one in the works.

Reese and Nicole both starred on and executive produced the series, which follows the intrigues and scandals simmering underneath the gilded lives of a group of suburban mothers in tony Monterey, California.
Paris Hilton and Jessica Alba attended a dinner party during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity to watch Lenny Kravitz, 60, perform.

Socialite Paris, 43, looked incredible in a baby blue broderie midi dress by Self Portrait.

The stylish ensemble boasted a high round neckline, short sleeves with a tassel detailing, complete with a flowy skirt.

She further accessorised the look with a set of gold diamante fingerless gloves and a pair of chic white shades.

The DJ toted her essentials around in a white handbag from Kate Spade which featured a large floral detailing at the front.

Paris Hilton and Jessica Alba attended a lavish dinner party during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity to watch Lenny Kravitz, 60, perform (pictured with Hollywood agent James Gartshore Boulter)

Meanwhile, Jessica, 43, looked effortlessly chic in a cream midi sun dress.

The elegant number boasted black pearl embellished shoulder straps with a bow detailing, a square neckline, a floral pattern all over, and crochet panels.

The actress further accessorised the look with a layer of gold-toned bangles and toted her essentials around in a 1,700 mini Dolce & Gabbana black handbag.

The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is home to the world's most prestigious advertising awards.

Celebrating creativity, effectiveness and innovation in the global advertising, marketing and communication industries.

Paris's appearance comes as she prepares to drop her sophomore album.She will release her second album Infinite Icon on September 6 - her first in over 20 years.

Paris released her first self-titled album in 2006 and it spawned Turn It Up, Nothing In This World, and the cult hit Stars Are Blind.

She then released a series of non-album singles, including 2015's High Off My Love, 2018's I Need You, 2023's Hot One and in April she released Fame Won't Love You in collaboration with Sia.

Paris's appearance comes as she prepares to drop her sophomore album on September 6 - her first in over two decades

Paris shares her children Phoenix, one, and London, six months, with her husband of three years, Carter Reum. They welcomed both children via surrogate

Paris told Rolling Stone in 2023 that the experience of creating her song Hot One made her want to make another album.

She said: 'I was instantly inspired and knew we had to make this record. We went into Sunset Sound Studio and ended up recording 3 songs in just one day! It was magic!'

Paris shares her children Phoenix, one, and London, six months, with her husband of three years, Carter Reum. They welcomed both children via surrogate.

The blonde beauty married the best-selling author on November 11, 2021, after just two years of dating.

She has been busy promoting her next musical era as she kicked off Pride Month with her Night Of 1000 Parises event before taking to the stage for Alice + Olivia at their Pride celebration in New York City.
Kate Beckinsale has hit back at followers who have criticised her choice to wear 'ridiculous' big bows.

The actress, 50, often showcases her bold dress sense by wearing a large black bow on her head in social media snaps.

And in the comment section of her recent Instagram post, one person wrote: 'Please take that ridiculous bow off.'

Kate didn't hold back when she replied: 'As I said before, take that expression off your bitter a** face. Unless you can't. In which case, condolences.'

Another user commented that the oversized bow made the actor look like 'a toddler in a pageant,' to which she said: 'Lucky old me.'

Kate Beckinsale has hit back at followers who have criticised her choice to wear 'ridiculous' big bows

The actress, 50, often showcases her bold dress sense by wearing a large black bow on her head in social media snaps

It comes after she fired back at fans who said she looks 'too thin' following a recent health scare.

In the two pictures posted to her Instagram Stories, Kate looked stunning in soft makeup that gave her visage a natural-looking glow.

She wore textured hoop earrings as she sat in a black and silver director's chair.

Thin tree branches with green leaves and purple flowers fell in front of her in the pretty snaps.

Also on Wednesday, Beckinsale shared a behind-the-scenes look as she had hair and makeup done on the set of her new film.

She spoke in Italian as her hairstylist tended to her locks while she sat in a makeup chair in front of a mirror.

Kate didn't hold back when she replied: 'As I said before, take that expression off your bitter a** face. Unless you can't. In which case, condolences.'

The star has been occupied working on a new feature film, which she has documented on social media.

Kate will star alongside Scott Eastwood in Stolen Girl, which is based on the real story of Maureen Dabbagh, a mother who spent years tracking down her daughter after she was abducted by the child's father.

It's being directed by James Kent and pre-production is taking place in Southern Italy's Puglia region.

Earlier this month the actress was prompted to respond to fans who made comments about her weight on Instagram.

When one person wrote under a post, 'What happened to you? You used to be gorgeous,' the silver screen siren clapped back.

'I have been really sad. I watched my second dad die. It made me sick. Sorry you find me less attractive. I couldn't give a f***,' Kate replied.

Fans have been worried since Kate recently posted a photo of herself in a hospital bed

'I have been really sad. I watched my second dad die. It made me sick. Sorry you find me less attractive. Couldn't give a fu**,' Kate clapped back at a critic

She continued to hit back, writing, 'I nursed my [stepdad] to his death early this year.

'My mum also has stuff going on. I am adjusting to watching two fathers die, one when I was 5, one in January of this year,' she added.

Earlier this year she lost her stepfather Roy Battersby after a brief illness. Beckinsale was also the one to find her biological father Richard's body after he died from a heart attack when she was young.
Netflix fans are praising a 'beautiful' new documentary that landed on the streaming service on Wednesday.

Black Barbie looks at diversity within the world of Mattel's iconic dolls and those who fought hard to improve it.

The Shonda-Rhimes produced series tells the untold story of the first-ever Black Barbie and the pivotal role three trailblazing women had in creating a doll who looked like them - Beulah Mae Mitchell, Kitty Black Perkins, and Stacey McBride-Irby.

Millions of African Americans struggled to see themselves represented in the world of Barbie industry until these women helped to change the toy scene forever during America's Civil Rights Movement.

The long-awaited documentary, which has an impressive 100 per cent score on the Rotten Tomatoes 'Tomatometer,' has finally arrived on Netflix to the delight of fans - and the positive reviews are already flooding in on social media.

Netflix fans are praising a 'beautiful' new documentary that landed on the streaming service on Wednesday

Black Barbie looks at diversity within the world of Mattel's iconic dolls and those who fought hard to improve it

Viewers took to X, formerly Twitter, to share their thoughts, writing: 'One of the best documentaries I've ever seen.

'An ambitious and deeply personal exploration of the creation & impact of Black Barbie & the complexities of race & representation. Multi-layered. Revelatory. Beautiful.'

'#BlackBarbie on @netflix has me all emotional. What a lovely celebration of brilliant Black women.'

'Watching #BlackBarbie on Netflix and I know it's supposed to bright joy but I'm just sad. It's really unfair.'

'Ngl, I assumed this Black Barbie doc would just be fun background noise, BUT no, I am into this!!! MAXINE WATERS!!!! Sad that I cannot find a real Black Barbie gif, tho.'

'@shondarhimes you got me in tears with this #blackbarbie.'

Other fans who are excited to watch it chimed in with: 'Wow this looks amazing.'

'Ayyyyy the Black Barbie documentary dropped on Netflix.'

'Wowwwwwww I will be tuning in! Is this available for UK users as well?'

The long-awaited documentary has finally arrived on Netflix to the delight of fans - and the positive reviews are already flooding in on social media

Black Barbie looks at diversity within the world of Mattel's iconic dolls and those who fought hard to improve it

Viewers took to X (formerly Twitter ) to share their thoughts on the new documentary

'Oh I'm excited to see this!'; 'Beautiful, I can't wait to watch this.'

'I can already tell #BlackBarbie documentary is gonna wreck me.'

'The Black Barbie documentary I've been waiting to see since last March finally hits Netflix tomorrowI think it was made back in like 2019 like Barbie as a brand has evolved so much in the time since; I wonder if that'll be apparent.'

Black Barbie has already earned a very impressive 100 per cent score on Rotten Tomatoes 'Tomatometer,' meaning it has only pulled in positive comments from critics so far.

One reviewer called the documentary: 'A searing critique of what it means to be seen in mass media.'

Meanwhile, another dubbed it a 'celebration of the talents and creativity of Black women'.

The blonde-haired and blue-eyed Barbie dominated toy shelves when it was first introduced in 1959, with Mattel also releasing a brunette version.

Beulah Mae Mitchell got a job as a toy tester at the Mattel factory and witnessed the birth of the first black Barbie.

She suggested the company create a black doll to the company's president and co-founder Ruth Handler.

When Kitty Black Perkins became chief designer of the Barbie line, she made history by creating the first black doll in 1980, which is chronicled in the documentary.

Then, after Kitty left in the early noughties, Stacey McBride-Irby took on a major role in Mattel and helped to design the AKA Barbie Doll, which became a collector's item.

Black Barbie: A Documentary is now available to watch on Netflix

Beulah Mae Mitchell got a job as a toy tester at the Mattel factory and witnessed the birth of the first Black Barbie

Mattel hired Kitty Black Perkins in 1976, the company's first black designer who helped create the first black Barbie
Adrian Dunbar has won rave reviews for his role in the new theatre production Kiss Me, Kate which is now on at The Barbican.

The Line of Duty actor, 65, has been lauded for 'actually being able to sing' in the 'glorious and sizzling summer hit' which features music from American composer and songwriter Cole Porter.

It's a play-within-a-play farce focusing on a divorced couple of warring thespians, Fred Graham, played by Adrian, and Lilli Vanessi (Stephanie J. Block), who reunite to in the musical variation of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew.

The pair, who have new relationships, slowly realise they have feelings for each other as the show descends into chaos.

The Telegraph were seriously impressed giving it four out of five stars, with critic Marianka Swain writing: 'Mother of God! Adrian Dunbar can actually sing!

Adrian Dunbar has won rave reviews for his role in the new theatre production Kiss Me, Kate which is now on at The Barbican

It's a play-within-a-play farce focusing on a divorced couple of warring thespians, Fred Graham, played by Adrian, and Lilli Vanessi (Stephanie J. Block), who reunite to in the musical variation of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew

'I would freely admit that he acquits himself well in this glorious Golden Age spectacular. This cleverly retuned classic show has all the makings of a sizzling summer hit.'

The Guardian were equally glowing in their review with four stars too calling it an 'exhilarating revival', but were less positive about Adrian's singing.

David Jays wrote: 'Dunbar has some dapper moves and a pointed way with a lyric. Vocally he is, shall we say, brave casting for a role often taken by operatic baritones  less than wunderbar against rich-voiced Block.

'Few could match her pugilistic coloratura or the barn-burning gleam of her solo I Hate Men.

The Independent called it a 'supremely silly evening of summer escapism' and a 'perfectly pitched revival' as they also followed suit in giving in four stars.

Tim Bano wrote: 'It's becoming something of a formula: Cole Porter musical plus a couple of big stars, plus lavish set, equals lovely bit of summer escapism at the Barbican.

'Even if it doesn't hit the same highs as Anything Goes  that was a better production of a better show  this is still a supremely lovely, supremely silly way to spend a summer evening.'

Elsewhere, The Times wrote: 'This play-within-a-play take on The Taming of the Shrew at the Barbican is admirably witty, and the Line of Duty star exhibits a comic touch!'

The Line of Duty actor, 65, has been lauded for 'actually being able to sing' in the 'glorious and sizzling summer hit' which features music from American composer and songwriter Cole Porter

The Telegraph were seriously impressed giving it four out of five stars, with critic Marianka Swain writing: 'Mother of God! Adrian Dunbar can actually sing!'

The show centres on a 1940s production of Shakespeare's Italian comedy, The Taming Of The Shrew, which goes wrong when sex-war on stage spreads backstage, consuming the leading man Fred (Dunbar) and his ex-wife Lilli (Block)

They branded Adrian's casting as 'unorthodox' but said in terms of his singing that he 'doesn't disgrace himself'.

The Daily Mail's Patrick Marmion called it a 'sexy, sassy revival'.

He said: 'Opening in London last night, Bartlett Sher's lip-smacking revival, starring Line Of Duty's unlikely heartthrob Adrian Dunbar and Broadway diva Stephanie J Block, is a candy store of great songs, hot dancing, smart gags and glorious characters.'

On Adrian's singing he added: 'Luciano Pavarotti, he ain't. But Dunbar's Fred has a good resonant baritone, zinging with Ulster nasality for extra vibrato.

'And he's got a great nose for comedy, too, with a frisky touch of Larry David from Curb Your Enthusiasm fame.'

The Evening Standard were less positive about the production, giving it three stars in their review.

Nick Curtis said: 'Call it magic or call it pizazz, the mystery ingredient that makes a show truly sing is missing from Bartlett Sher's revival of Cole Porter's classic.

'A musical about a warring couple mounting a musical version of Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew (itself a play within a play about a warring couple), this self-referential love letter to showbiz is structurally complex but should feel fizzy and light.

'Here it's solid, serviceable, but unexciting, thanks partly to the lack of chemistry between the leads.'

Veteran star Adrian, who plays tough-talking cop Ted Hastings in the BBC1 series, is the first to admit he's 'not a dancer' but has dedicated himself to learning the routines needed for the production, the Cole Porter Broadway classic reimagined for a new audience.

Adrian admitted he's been pestering his reps for years in a bid to land a role in a musical and fulfil a life-long ambition.

He said: 'I've hustled my agents over the years, but they never really took me seriously about it.'

And he admitted there were plenty of nerves before opening night, adding: 'It's very, very exciting and scary.

'But everybody's telling me it's gonna be fine. So I have to kind of wake up to that and just get on with the work.'

Adrian, who also stars in ITV drama Ridley, said he regrets not pushing his passion for musical theatre more, saying he ended up being consumed by hard-hitting TV roles instead.

He left school at 15 and went to work in a factory, before auditioning for Guildhall School of Music & Drama, which is part of the Barbican complex - where he returned to star in Kiss Me, Kate on its 15-week run.

On musical theatre, he said: 'We did the first production of Merrily We Roll Along at the Guildhall [in 1983]  a very good production that transferred to the West End.

'I wish I'd got a chance to do a bit more of that. And then I kind of forgot about it because I was from Northern Ireland, there was a lot of dark stuff that was happening, a lot of heavy TV, a lot of heavy theatre, so my theatre life went that way.

The Independent called it a 'supremely silly evening of summer escapism' and a 'perfectly pitched revival' as they also followed suit in giving in four stars

The Evening Standard, however, were less positive about the production, giving it three stars in their review

'And so I forgot about music and musicals. It's really nice that this is happening at this point in my life.'

Despite his move onto the stage, a potential return to his most iconic role in Line of Duty would still be hugely tempting.

The final sixth series aired in May 2021 but fans are desperate for more and Adrian hopes to one day reunite with co-stars Martin Compston and Vicky McClure to shoot a seventh instalment.

He recently told The Times: 'We all want it to come back. We don't want to be coming back when we're in wheelchairs. Ted Hastings with a Zimmer frame.'

For tickets visit KissMeKateMusical.com
Jessie Wallace looked loved-up with her fiance Justin Gallwey as she gave a rare insight into their relationship on Tuesday.

The EastEnders actress, 52, who confirmed her engagement to her carpenter partner in February last year, sweetly posed for a photo.

Jessie looked lovingly at Justin while he smiled for the selfie, wearing a pair of sunglasses and a flat cap.

The soapstar remains fairly private about her relationship, but took the opportunity to show off her partner.

She captioned the post: 'My love Justin Gallwey,' and a series of Irish-themed emojis.

Jessie Wallace, 52, looked loved-up with her fiance Justin Gallwey as she gave a rare insight into their relationship on Tuesday

Jessie confirmed her engagement to her carpenter partner Justin with a sweet Instagram post in February last year.

Announcing her happy news at the time, she shared a cosy snap with her partner and wrote: 'My fiance and moi' in an accompanying caption.

The pair had been together for at least a year prior to their engagement had previously been reported before they confirmed the news.

Jessie downplayed rumours she was already married to Justin last summer after referring to him as her 'husband'.

She prompted inevitable speculation across social media with an Instagram post, in which she hinted at something more than a committed relationship.

Sharing a photo of herself wrapped in Justin's arms as they relaxed in a London pub, Jessie added the simple caption: 'My hubby.'

Jessie and Justin are said to have known each other since they were teenagers.

Justin hinted at his plans to propose last July, commenting on a photo of Jessie and her friend Jaime Winstone modelling matching costume jewellery on the set of a special flashback episode of EastEnders.

The EastEnders actress, who confirmed her engagement to her carpenter partner in February last year, sweetly posed for a photo

Announcing her happy news at the time, she shared a cosy snap with her partner and wrote: 'My fiance and moi' in an accompanying caption

On an update to Instagram, he wrote: 'See I told you you would have a ring on that finger by the end of the year.'

It was previously reported Justin had been helping Jessie to battle her booze demons after she was arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer.

He told The Sun on Sunday: 'I just want to protect her. Everything is happy and things are good.'

Justin, who is said to keep a Jessie doll from Toy Story in his van, told The Sun last year: 'Our relationship is fine. We are very close.'

Speaking of the police incident, he added: 'I have made my apologies and so has Jessie.'

The actress has expressed her deep regret' after she allegedly told a police officer to 'f*** off you fat c***' during 'five minutes of carnage' outside a nightclub.

Wallace, who plays barmaid Kat Slater in the BBC soap, allegedly kneed the officer in the groin before she was arrested and placed into a police van, but she was later released without charge.

She was warned by BBC chiefs that her behaviour was 'unacceptable' after the incident, with Wallace expressing her 'deep regret'.

A BBC spokesman told MailOnline: 'Senior bosses have spoken to Jessie Wallace about the incident and issued a clear warning that this kind of behaviour is unacceptable. Jessie has expressed her deep regret.'

And her friends are believed to have urged the star to 'step back and slow down' after the 'unprofessional' incident.

One friend told The Mirror: 'She needs to step back, slow down and try to sort her head out. It goes without saying this behaviour is deeply unprofessional.'

MailOnline has contacted Wallace's representatives for comment.

Footage showed the moment Wallace was arrested following a 'drunken' night out, with witnesses claiming she had been kicked out of Flex nightclub for being 'gobby'.

It is claimed she kneed the officer in the groin before she was arrested and placed into a police van.

Earlier in the day Wallace had been with her new boyfriend watching a Madness gig at Thetford Forest, Brandon - where she posed for photographs with fans.

The pair are said to have known each other since they were teenagers and Justin has described their relationship as 'very close' (pictured in October 2021)

The star was later detained on suspicion of assaulting a police officer as well as drunk and disorderly conduct in Bury St Edmunds.

A witness said: 'It was truly shocking behaviour. She was out of control. It was worse than anything Kat Slater has done.

'She was a one-woman rampage. It was five minutes of carnage. The police dealt with it very well.'

But she was later released without charge by Suffolk Police after receiving a conditional caution.
He made headlines earlier this year following the release of his directorial debut, Strictly Confidential - which saw his mother Elizabeth Hurley engage in a steamy lesbian sex scene.

And now Damian Hurley, 22, has caused quite the stir once again as he took to Instagram to post a shirtless mirror selfie.

The snap comes after Elizabeth, 59, revealed another film could be in the works as she prepared to work with her only child once more.

In the new image, Damian showed off his abs and muscly physique as he wore just a pair of low-rise jogging bottoms while lounging about at home.

Leaving his hair tousled, Damian posed next to a sweet brown teddy bear as he captioned the snap with: 'Good morning (teddy bear emoji).'

Damian Hurley posed for a sultry shirtless snap on instagram on Wednesday - after his mother Elizabeth revealed plans to make another film with him following THAT racy lesbian sex scene

Damian's directorial debut, Strictly Confidential - saw his mother Elizabeth (pictured) engage in a steamy lesbian sex scene with her 28-year-old costar Pear Chiravara

Fans of the British actor then flocked to the comment section to shower him with compliments on his physique.

They wrote: 'Well helloooooooo (flame and heart emoji)'';

'This is what dreams are made of (shocked and heart eyes emoji)';

'Abs.'

The Instagram post comes after Elizabeth revealed she is planning to team up for another movie with 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 raunchy film Strictly Confidential which saw the actress engage in a steamy lesbian sex scene with her 28-year-old co-star 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 told Social Life magazine.

The Instagram post comes after Elizabeth revealed she is planning to team up for another movie with her son Damian

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

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.

Several 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.

'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 previously dated Hugh Grant, 63, for 13 years, however, the couple split in 2000 after withstanding a cheating scandal and Hugh's arrest in 1995 for soliciting a sex worker (both pictured in 1993)

Elizabeth then conceived her only child during a short-lived relationship with the late American film producer Steve Bing, not long after she split from Hugh (both pictured in 2000)

'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.
Katie Price's new neighbours have reportedly threatened to 'sell their house' after discovering the 'dreadful' news she's moving to the 'quiet area'.

The former glamour model, 46, is forking out almost 5,000 per month for her new property after being forced to leave the Mucky Mansion amid double bankruptcy woes.

And one of her new neighbours is 'really not happy' about it, according to The Sun.

A woman, who asked not to be identified, said: 'One of my neighbours was on the phone to me as soon as they heard saying, "Have you heard the dreadful news?"

'The reaction from most of the neighbours has not been very positive.'

She added: 'There's nothing we can do about it other than put our house up for sale but that is a bit drastic'

Katie Price's new neighbours have reportedly threatened to 'sell their house' after discovering the 'dreadful' news she's moving to the 'quiet area'

The former glamour model, 46, is forking out almost 5,000 per month for her new property after being forced to leave the Mucky Mansion amid double bankruptcy woes

Katie was told she had to leave her Mucky Mansion after being declared bankrupt.

She was due to leave on May 29 following an eviction notice, but has been given until June 26 to move out.

Locals have warned Price 'not to throw any wild parties'. They said they hope she will 'keep herself to herself' when she moves into her new home.

One new neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: 'She's a bit older now, so maybe she's calmed down a bit? As long as there are no wild parties going on into the night, we're ok with it.'

Another neighbour who did not want to be named said: 'As long as she keeps herself to herself, I'm fine with it.'

Katie's huge new family home, which includes a double garage and open-plan kitchen, will be Katie and her five children's new house.

However, after checking out her new property, confused fans queried how she has been able to afford the 4,995 monthly payment amid her financial issues.

They asked: 'Double bankrupt. Where did the money come from?'; 'For someone who is bankrupt how can she afford it?'; 'How can she afford that property if she's bankrupt!'

One of Katie's new neighbours is 'really not happy' about her moving in

It comes after Katie shared pictures of two men she feared were trying to break into her 2million Mucky Mansion - just days after she was forced to call police over another gang of strangers outside her home

Katie Price revealed that she was forced to call the police after a 'transit van of eight people' were spotted in the grounds of her Mucky Mansion on Monday

It comes after Katie shared pictures of two men she feared were trying to break into her 2million Mucky Mansion - just days after she was forced to call police over another gang of strangers outside her home.

Katie posted alarming doorbell footage on Instagram of an intruder approaching the front door before walking away.

She followed it up with a picture of him and a second man as well as a photo of a white Ford they had parked on her driveway.

The double bankrupt mother-of-five, who is being forced to leave the nine-bed mansion due to an eviction order, wrote: 'Anybody know who this is? Attempting to break into my house.'

Sussex Police told MailOnline it had received a report of 'suspicious behavior involving a possible break-in' at around 9pm. The two men were searched and given 'words of advice' before being released after no items were found, police said.

It is the latest incident to take place at 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.

Price, who's a mother 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, said at the time: 'Due to acid attack on my car at my house I've now been advised by authorities not to stay at Mucky Mansion anymore.'

She revealed how someone had snuck into her property in the middle of the night and splashed a corrosive substance over the Range Rover which had some of its pink paint stripped off.

Taking to her Instagram Stories Katie shared a snap of a police car claiming coppers had come to protect her property from the intruders and has set up a 24 hour guard

And last month, the twice bankrupt reality star revealed she'd been advised to leave the home after vandals threw acid on her Range Rover, and she has since increased security while appearing at her live shows

Katie had shared snaps and videos of damage to her car the following day, and in a statement the police urged any witnesses to come forward.

'Scumbags outside my house on my private property, I can't wait to get out this house in a few months time,' she wrote over a video of the acid damage.

She added: 'It's nice to know someone in the night has come to throw acid all over my car. Everywhere, all on my car.

'Thank you, whoever that was.'

Then yesterday, she revealed that police had been called after a van parked up at the mansion. She posted footage of police officers descending on the scene.

In the caption she wrote: 'Rushed to my home after being informed of a white transit van with eight people not from this area waiting in my grounds.

'A thanks to Sussex police who were instantly there and who are guarding the property.

'After the recent acid attack at the mansion all breaches of security are taken seriously by all now.

'There is 24 hour security now at the property for protection.'

During a live show of The Katie Price Podcast in London on Friday, she said she couldn't wait to leave the mansion.

'I absolutely have hated my mansion,' she told the audience.

'I tell you why, nine years of hell I've had there. Fly-tipping, it's haunted... and I am living with it. And whoever buys that house, good luck! I hate it.'

Price 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.'

Earlier this month it was revealed the former glamour model had reportedly been informed by lawyers she would have to move out of the property in in Dial Post, West Sussex, by May 29, after two eviction notices appeared outside her home

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.'

Regarding the latest incident at the Mucky Mansion, a spokesman for Sussex Police told MailOnline: 'Police received a report of suspicious behaviour involving a possible break-in at 9pm on June 4 at an address in Dial Post, near Horsham.

'Officers attended the scene and two men were searched. No items were found. The men were given words of advice and released.

'Officers have made contact with the property owner and kept them informed of the incident.

'Any suspicious activity can be reported to Sussex Police on 101 or online, in an emergency call 999.'

MailOnline has contacted Katie Price for comment.
Giovanni Pernice was pictured breaking his strict pro dancer regime on Tuesday when he was pictured visiting casinos, chain smoking and eating a pastry.

The outing comes as Strictly's head judge Shirley Ballas, 63, defended him, calling him a 'perfect gentleman', amid his shock exit from BBC show amid workplace misconduct probe.

Giovanni, 33, visited Silver Time Casino as well as Admiral Casino and Slots, before nipping into Paul's Bakery for a pastry, which he ate out of a brown paper bag.

Clearly stressed by all that has been going on in his professional life, he could be seen chain smoking throughout his visit.

Giovanni was easy to spot wearing a Dolce And Gabbana 'Made In Italy' T-shirt which he teamed with tracksuit bottoms and trainers by the same fashion brand.

Giovanni Pernice looked stressed as he broke his strict pro dancer regime as he visited two casinos, chain smoked and tucked into a pastry following his shock Strictly exit

Giovanni, 33, visited Silver Time Casino as well as Admiral Casino and Slots, before nipping into Paul's Bakery for a pastry, which he ate out of a brown paper bag

Clearly stressed by all that has been going on, he could be seen chain smoking throughout the day

Giovanni was easy to spot wearing a Dolce And Gabbana 'Made In Italy ' top which he teamed with tracksuit bottoms and trainers by the same fashion brand

For weeks executives have been investigating claims that Giovanni behaved 'abrasively' to his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington.

Shirley has hailed Giovanni saying they socialise outside of work and she has only had positive experiences with him.

Speaking at Q&A for her new crime novel, according to The Sun, she said: 'He is coming to my party on Sunday. You know, I can only talk from my own perspective.

'I have known Giovanni for ten years. He has always been to me,  and I will make that clear, to me  a perfect gentleman.

'I don't condone bullying on any path. But I don't believe gossip because things are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball.'

Shirley added that her mother Audrey 'loves' Giovanni and always makes time to say hello to them.

She said: 'It does not matter when he is on tour, or where he is or what he is doing, he will make his way across and he will say 'Lovely to see you Shirley. Lovely to see your mum.'

The TV personality said she will not judge anyone until the investigation has been fully carried out and added Giovanni 'will be missed' on the show this year.

Giovanni pictured outside Admiral casino as he chain smoked

He was also seen lurking around Silver Time casino as he continued to look away while scrolling through his phone

There seemed to be a row of gambling shops down the street that Giovanni was walking down

Giovanni appeared to be in a pensive mood as he rested for a moment in the shop doorway

For weeks executives have been investigating claims that Giovanni behaved 'abrasively' to his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington

Elsewhere, Shirley described Giovanni as a 'hard worker' who always tries his best.

She told Best magazine: 'I think everybody in the Strictly cast is fantastic and I've known Giovanni a long, long time. I've known him probably longer than a lot of people have known him and I can only talk from personal experience.

'He's got a work ethic that is the same as mine. He works hard and he wants the best for anybody who wants to learn. He's a true gentleman and, of course, he always looks drop-dead gorgeous.'

Shirley noted that Giovanni is an incredibly considerate person in general who goes out of his way to make someone feel 'super-special'.

It comes a day after Shirley Ballas defended Giovanni, calling him a 'perfect gentleman'

Head judge Shirley, 63, has hailed Giovanni, 33, saying they socialise outside of work and she has only had positive experiences with him

For weeks executives have been investigating claims that Giovanni, who recently lost his spot on the show, behaved 'abrasively' to his celebrity partner, Amanda Abbington

Shirley said: 'I have known Giovanni for ten years. He has always been to me,  and I will make that clear, to me  a perfect gentleman'

She added: 'I don't condone bullying on any path. But I don't believe gossip because things are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball' (Giovanni, right, pictured with Anton Du Beke)

She added: 'He always puts his best foot forward and is always on time, he's one of those very thoughtful people. He called me the other day to invite my mum to a show he was doing because they love each other. As popular as he is, he will always try and make his way to any fan who wants to see him and will always make them feel super-special.'

Despite the furore, head judge Shirley has stood by the under-fire pro and will join him in hosting a number of dance classes in London next month.

Named Ballando, the one-day event is led by Shirley, Giovanni and Anton Du Beke as they share their expertise with fans.

Giovanni's absence from the Strictly line-up was revealed when the BBC shared the names of the professionals appearing this year.

This season will see the return of Amy Dowden , who was treated for breast cancer last year, alongside Dianne Buswell , Nadiya Bychkova, Graziano Di Prima, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez and Luba Mushtuk.

Joining them on the dancefloor are Jowita Przystal , Johannes Radebe , Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola.

The BBC also confirmed the return of judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel-Horwood and Anton Du Beke.

Executive producer Sarah James said in a statement: 'This year Strictly marks two decades of entertaining the nation and we will be back with a bang in September as we celebrate in style with our incredible team both on and off screen.'

Strictly head judge Shirley said: 'My feeling for Giovanni is, let them do this investigation or whatever it is they are doing and the truth will come out'

Despite the furore, head judge Shirley has stood by the under-fire pro and will join him in hosting a number of dance classes in London next month alongside Anton Du Beke

Giovanni returned to social media for the first time on Thursday after the BBC confirmed he would not be returning to the show

It comes after the Daily Mail revealed BBC bosses are 'furious' that leaks of confidential details of the probe have been made public.

It was reported that claims Giovanni would 'grab his crotch' when one of his partners did well have been heard by investigators.

The Sun newspaper also told how Amanda said her foot was bruised after Pernice stood on it.

BBC bosses are said to be 'concerned' and are wanting to find out how this information is being released.

They are also worried that the leaks mean that Giovanni, who quit Strictly in April after nine years, is being vilified by the public.

One insider at the corporation told the Mail: 'We are talking about a confidential, internal inquiry here yet there are several elements finding their way into the public domain now.

'While it isn't an HR issue, it is an investigation which the BBC are taking seriously.

'The bosses want to know why this is happening. They want to find the leak. If you are Giovanni here you might be thinking that this is highly unfair.

'It also seems quite rum that it is all anti-Giovanni. There is nothing coming out in his favour at all. It's all very strange.'

The inquiry began last month and the outcome is expected within a few weeks.

It all began when Amanda revealed to The Sun in January that she had got post-traumatic stress disorder after appearing on Strictly last year when she was paired with Pernice.

She also asked for video footage of her rehearsals with the Sicilian dancer.

After he was offered a contract to return to the series, which starts in September, Ms Abbington instructed London-based legal firm Carter-Ruck to represent her along with two other female stars who have appeared on Strictly.

The organisation is reportedly scouring nine years of footage from Strictly professional Giovanni's training sessions, as the explosive show scandal continues to rumble on

Three women, including actress Amanda Abbington (pictured), have hired 700-an-hour lawyers at leading London law firm Carter Ruck to pursue claims against Giovanni and the BBC

Ms Abbington reportedly met up with Laura Whitmore and Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh  also former partners of Pernice  to discuss his so-called bad behaviour.

Giovanni responded by hiring rival firm Schillings, which has represented royals such Prince Harry and Meghan, as well as J. K. Rowling and Ryan Giggs.

He has vowed not to be cancelled and is fully co-operating with the investigation. In the last fortnight he has begun to engage with the BBC. He expects to be exonerated.

In a statement, the dancer said: 'Giovanni is fully committed to clearing his name and defending his reputation against all false and misleading accusations against him.'

On Instagram yesterday Pernice, who is currently on tour across the country with Strictly star Anton Du Beke, branded allegations about his teaching methods 'simply false'.

He wrote: 'Every week, there are totally untrue stories about me in the media.

'As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false.

'I am co-operating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.

'As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.'

As the investigation into Giovanni 's alleged inappropriate behaviour continues the BBC have reportedly brought in two ex Met officers to conduct the interviews.

And it is understood they have already interviewed at least one female complainant, The Sun has revealed.

The other two are due to be seen in the coming days as the organisation continue to reportedly scour nine years of footage from Giovanni's training sessions.

A source told the publication: 'The BBC is taking this extremely seriously.

'Two ex-Met cops are conducting all the interviews and have been tasked with gathering evidence  including texts and screenshots  which they will present to corporation executives.

'Giovanni has not yet been spoken to.'

MailOnline have contacted Giovanni's representatives. The BBC chose not to comment when approached for a statement.

Giovanni returned to social media for the first time on Thursday after the BBC confirmed he would not be returning to the show.

The dancer shared a video to the Ballando Instagram account in which he could be seen taking charge in leading a series of group dance sessions.

Earlier this week a male celebrity reportedly joined the group of women making complaints about Giovanni 's behaviour (pictured with previous dance partner Ranvir Singh)

The Sicilian dancer is accused of 'threatening and abusive behaviour' while working with celebrity contestants on the show (pictured with Laura Whitmore in 2016)

Keeping his words to a minimum, he simply added three love heart emojis to the post - proving that he still has a passion for dance.

The dancer is set to return to the stage for his show - The Anton and Giovanni Together live tour - on Friday alongside Strictly judge Anton Du Beke.

The BBC's announcement of which dancers would be competing in this year's show is a routine procedure by show bosses and does not mark the end of the probe into Giovanni's behaviour.

A show insider said: 'Giovanni's case is very much ongoing. The announcement is circulated when Strictly have finalised the contracts of the pros who are able to compete.

'Giovanni's absence has been known for some weeks, he won't have anything to do with the 2024 season.

'But the investigation into his alleged wrongdoings will continue to develop alongside preparation for the upcoming series.'
The Project's Sam Taunton was left red-faced during Wednesday night's show after a joke to Senator Bridget McKenzie fell flat live on air.

Ms McKenzie was discussing Liberal party leader Peter Dutton's proposed plan to introduce seven nuclear reactors across Australia, when funnyman Taunton decided to crack a gag.

'It's one of the biggest stories of the year. I always wonder, when you have a policy roll out, it must be very stressful,' Sam began.

'What do you do at the end of the day, do you go home and watch TV? I hear Chernobyl's a really good show to watch,' he continued.

Taunton's awkward TV suggestion referred to the 2019 HBO miniseries Chernobyl, which dramatised the real life 1986 tragedy in Ukraine where a Nuclear Power Plant exploded, resulting in the deaths of 30 people.

The Project's Sam Taunton (pictured) was left red-faced during Wednesday night's show after a joke to Senator Bridget McKenzie fell flat live on air

Ms McKenzie (pictured) was discussing Liberal party leader Peter Dutton 's proposed plan to introduce seven nuclear reactors across Australia, when funnyman Taunton decided to crack a gag

Ms McKenzie was quick to shoot down Taunton live on air, adding she would prefer to watch The Simpsons, before making her feelings known.

'Wow. Really funny,' she replied, with her quip being felt across The Project panel.

'I think she just nuked you Sam!' quipped co-host Sarah Harris.

In January 2023, Taunton replaced Peter Helliar on The Project, after the comedian left the popular panel show after nine years.

Taunton's awkward TV suggestion referred to the 2019 HBO miniseries Chernobyl, which dramatised the real life 1986 tragedy in Ukraine where a Nuclear Power Plant exploded, resulting in the deaths of 30 people

Ms McKenzie was quick to shoot down Taunton live on air, adding she would prefer to watch The Simpsons, before making her feelings known. 'Wow. Really funny,' she replied, with her quip being felt across The Project panel. 'I think she just nuked you Sam!' quipped co-host Sarah Harris. Pictured: Harris and co-host Waleed Aly

In January 2023, Taunton replaced Peter Helliar on The Project, after the comedian left the popular panel show after nine years

At the time, he confessed to The Daily Telegraph, he was nervous about joining the show and replacing Peter, who he described as being part of Australia's 'comedy landscape'.

'Pete and Hughesy - they're obviously part of the Australian comedy landscape and they were so well-known before starting the show,' he said.

'I was a bit "how am I going to go?" And I was s**t scared that I would screw it up - I don't think I have yet,' he added.

Sam, who has a degree in political science, explained he felt like he was pushed into the deep end.

'I felt like being in charge of a busy cafe on a Saturday morning, having never worked in a cafe,' he said.
Hugh Jackman has revealed a surprising hobby.

The 55-year-old Australian actor took to Instagram on Wednesday to share his passion for puzzles.

In a series of amusing clips, the Oscar nominee was seen piecing together a jigsaw puzzle, a far cry from his action-packed on-screen roles.

One particularly entertaining clip shows Jackman sprawled on the floor, wriggling and reaching under furniture in search of a missing piece.

As he discovered a piece under a table, the Les Miserables star burst into song, singing, Hallelujah!

Hugh Jackman, 55, (pictured) has revealed a surprising hobby

The 55-year-old Australian actor took to Instagram on Wednesday to share his passion for puzzles

Unfortunately, his triumph was short-lived as it turned out not to be the elusive final piece.

Jackman continued his quest, jokingly declaring, 'I'm going to make a piece tomorrow', after another unsuccessful search.

In the end, a photo shared later confirmed that Jackman had indeed completed the puzzle, with all pieces accounted for.

It comes after Hugh revealed the toughest part of returning to his role as superhero Wolverine in the latest Deadpool film.

The actor reprises the role that made him a household name for the latest installment in the franchise, Deadpool & Wolverine.

One particularly entertaining clip shows Jackman sprawled on the floor, wriggling and reaching under furniture in search of a missing piece

As he discovered a piece under a table, the Les Miserables star sung out, Hallelujah!

In the end, a photo shared later confirmed that Jackman had indeed completed the puzzle, with all pieces accounted for

Jackman says that as age catches up to him, training to transform himself into the buff big screen beast is tougher than ever.

'The hardest bit  [was] the food,' the Free Guy actor told People magazine this week.

'I have to eat a lot. For me, for my body type, I'm naturally skinny. To get the size on, that's the hardest bit. That's the bit that does my head in.'

He added: 'My body was a little sore at the beginning, but I was thrilled that my body was still responding. And I realised how good it is for your brain.
Meg Ryan flashed her toned tummy in a short top when she was spotted in Santa Barbara on Tuesday.

The Top Gun actress had on a chic look as she added wide-legged black slacks and a beige wide-brimmed hat with Tay-Ban aviator sunglasses.

The ex of 70-year-old Dennis Quaid - who is playing Ronald Reagan in a new movie - has stayed in top shape by doing daily yoga sessions that have kept her not just trim but limber.

The 62-year-old star, who used to live in New York City, has been spending more time in California lately.

The outing comes just a week after the Top Gun actress spoke about how she has felt 'liberated' since turning 60 a few years back.

Meg Ryan flashed her toned tummy in a short top when she was spotted in Santa Barbara on Tuesday. The Top Gun actress had on a chic look as she added wide-legged black slacks and a beige wide-brimmed hat with Tay-Ban aviator sunglasses

'I appreciate my years, I say that seriously. 'I appreciate my age. For me, now, it is more important to say clearly what you think rather than pleasing others and trying to make everyone happy. ' she told IO Donna.

'I feel almost liberated because I have said certain things and made observations about love and relationships,' she added.

'And for trying to be honest. I can finally look back and be in the present at the same time,' Ryan continued.

She returned to the big screen last year in What Happens Later, her first film in eight years, explaining why she needed a break.

'I needed other experiences, to meet people outside the film industry. For this reason I moved to New York, I raised my daughter Daisy, and then on I started travelling, especially to distant countries,' she said.

Ryan said that stepping away from the spotlight helped her see things more clearly as she learned to balance her career and family.

'When you are up to your neck in the 'bubble of fame' you cannot suddenly free yourself from it, you always remain somehow lost in the labyrinth of notoriety.

'But you know what? I'd had enough, I'm happy to have made that choice and moved away from that world: I became a better and more interesting human being,' she finished.

The ex of Dennis Quaid has stayed in top shape by doing daily yoga sessions that have kept her not just trim but limber. The 62-year-old star, who used to live in New York City , has been spending more time in California lately

This comes after the When Harry Met Sally... actress attended the Met Gala in NYC in May for the first time in 23 years.

Ryan looked stylish on the red carpet, posing for photographers alongside the designer of her dress, Michael Kors.

Her last Met Gala was back in 2001 - which she attended with her Kate & Leopold co-star Liev Schreiber - which had the theme Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years.

Ryan stepped out in a stunning sheer black dress with black floral embellishments over the chest and across her waist.

This comes after the When Harry Met Sally... actress attended the Met Gala in NYC in May for the first time in 23 years

Ryan later rocked some black Aviator sunglasses to pose alongside Michael Kors, who designed the dress she wore for the evening

Her last Met Gala was back in 2001 - which she attended with her Kate & Leopold co-star Liev Schreiber - which had the theme Jacqueline Kennedy: The White House Years

She wore her wavy blonde hair down just below her chin, which hid a pair of turquoise strand earrings from Cartier.

The actress also accessorized with a turquoise ring, with her long black dress spreading out below her, obscuring her footwear for the evening.

Ryan later rocked some black Aviator sunglasses to pose alongside Michael Kors, who designed the dress she wore for the evening.

When she last attended in 2021, she had been separated from husband Dennis Quaid since June 2000, with the divorce finalized in July 2001.
Sir Michael Palin went back to where it all began on Wednesday as he received an honorary degree from Oxford University.

The Monty Python star began writing comedy while enrolled at Oxford's Brasenose College, where he read modern history, in the early 1960s.

There, he met Terry Jones, with whom he become a household name after forming the Python comedy troupe alongside John Cleese, Eric Idle, Graham Chapman and Terry Gilliam.

Returning to the city on Wednesday, Palin, 81, was one of six people to be awarded honorary degrees during Oxford University's annual Encaenia ceremony.

The event, held annually on the Wednesday of the ninth week during Trinity Term, recognizes distinguished men and women who have enjoyed enormous success in their respective fields, while commemorating its benefactors.

Sir Michael Palin went back to where it all began on Wednesday as he received an honorary degree from Oxford University

L-R: Anoushka Shankar, Sir Demis Hassabis, Sir Michael Palin and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala make their way towards the Sheldonian Theatre ahead of receiving honorary degrees at the University of Oxford's annual Encaenia ceremony

Palin's fellow recipients included musician Anoushka Shankar and World Trade Organization (WTO) director general Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

Shankar, a sitarist, composer and producer, is the daughter of celebrated musician Ravi Shankar, a close friend and collaborator of the late Beatle George Harrison.

Other recipients include British engineer and entrepreneur Warren East, computer scientist and artificial intelligence (AI) researcher Sir Demis Hassabis, and Canadian cardiologist and epidemiologist Prof Salim Yusuf.

Speaking in April, Palin admitted he still struggles with the 'foreverness' of life without his childhood sweetheart, Helen Gibbins, nearly a year on from her death.

The comedian and presenter described his wife as the 'bedrock of his life'. The pair met aged 16 while on holiday with their parents and got married in their 20s, spending almost six decades together.

He said he struggles with the 'foreverness of it' and said life without his lifelong companion feels 'unreal'.

The couple had three children. She was 80 when she died on May 2, 2023 having battled with kidney failure for several years.

He told The Mirror: 'We were both 16, and we married in our early 20s... Helen was the bedrock of my life. Her quietly-wise judgment informed all my decisions and her humour and practical good sense was at the heart of our life together.'

Monty Python star Palin began writing comedy while enrolled at Oxford's Brasenose College, where he read modern history, in the early 1960s

The Encaenia ceremony, held annually on the Wednesday of the ninth week during Trinity Term, recognizes distinguished men and women while commemorating its benefactors

Computer scientist and artificial intelligence (AI) researcher Sir Demis Hassabis also received an honorary degree in Oxford on Wednesday

He continued: 'It is kind of dealing with the foreverness of it.

'That it is forever.

In an interview broadcast later this week on BBC Radio 4, Palin explains that he and his fellow Python stars are still good friends - despite reports of a feud.

Former Python star Eric Idle has publicly criticised their manager Holly Gilliam, daughter of Terry Gilliam.

'We see each other but not as often. I see Terry Gilliam as he lives close by. John lives in various parts of the world, I am not quite sure where, and Eric lives in America.

'We are not that close, but when we get together, we talk about "that thing" as if it was like a long affair from years ago, and we get rather tearful. Python is still selling around the world, not what it used to, [but] it achieved success that none of us would have dreamed of.'

Now Palin is better known for his epic travel adventures which he hopes to continue.

Palin and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala have a conversation during the annual ceremony

Fellow recipient Anoushka Shankar, a sitarist, composer and producer, is the daughter of musician Ravi Shankar, a close friend and collaborator of the late Beatle George Harrison

Bedels lead a procession towards the Sheldonian Theatre ahead of the annual Encaenia ceremony at Oxford University

Honorary degree recipients, among them Palin, brought up the rear of the procession
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Sofia Vergara showed off her pert bottom while in a clinging one shoulder white dress this week while hanging out with 'beautiful people.'

The siren's makeup was perfect and her hair was down as she was seen in various sunglasses and long gold sunglasses. On her feet were high heeled sandals.

The Modern Family veteran was at a summer backyard party in Los Angeles with her son Manolo.

It appeared to be a fete for her brands as there were booths for Walmart, Foster Grant, Miami Cocktail Company, Dios Mios Coffee - all brands she reps - as well as her son's company Toma.

There was also a mini fashion show as friends sipped cocktails and ate treats from Toma.

'Celebrating summer,' wrote the Griselda actress in her Instagram caption as she added heart emojis. And she also said in another post, 'Beautiful summer day with beautiful people!'

Sofia Vergara showed off her body while in a clingy one shoulder white dress this week while hanging out with 'beautiful people'

Here she put her bottom on display as she wore her hair down. The Modern Family veteran was at a summer backyard party with her son Manolo

Last week Sofia posed with her doctor boyfriend again this weekend during an outdoor party at her $26M mansion in the exclusive Beverly Park neighborhood of Los Angeles.

The actress was seen getting close to Dr Justin Saliman whom she has been dating for the past few several months.

The siren from Colombia looked her very best in a colorful strapless dress that made her look ready for a cocktail party by a swimming pool in Monaco.

Her long brown hair was worn down around her face like curtains as she had on plum colored makeup and plenty of jewelry like a heart-shaped pendant around her neck.

The Modern Family actress also had several other friends like Jessica Alba around her as they enjoyed lunch and meringue cake on Sunday.

'Sunday funday with friends,' wrote the America's Got Talent star in her caption.

Two of her pals at the Sunday bash were eyebrow guru Anastasia Soare as well as Claudia Soare.

Lunch was served as well as an array of fancy cakes like a lemon meringue cake from Cipriani Beverly Hills, a key lime pie and a fruit tart from Bottega Louie.

It appeared to be a fete for her brands as there were booths for Walmart, Foster Grant, Miami Cocktail Company, Dios Mios Coffee - all brands she reps - as well as her son's company Toma

There was also a mini fashion show as friends sipped cocktails and ate treats from Toma

'Celebrating summer,' wrote the Griselda actress in her Instagram caption as she added heart emojis. And she also said in another post, 'Beautiful summer day with beautiful people!'

Seen with her son Manolo as he handed out his TOMA treats

Here the pinup was seen modeling a brown swimsuit from her Walmart collection

A beautiful table was set up outside with a green and ivory table cloth, green crystal glasses and gold cutlery.

Also spied was 43-year-old actress Jessica Alba and her son Hayes.

This comes after Sofia said she doesn't think it would be 'fair' for her to have another baby.

The actress turns 52 in July, and Sofia - who split from Joe Manganiello last year - has revealed that she isn't interested in having another child.

The Hollywood star - who already has a 32-year-old son called Manolo with her first husband, Joe Gonzalez - told PEOPLE: 'There's things in life that might sound like good ideas, but they're not.

'I was a mother already. I know what it means to be a good mother or to try to be the best mother that you can, and that takes a lot of sacrifices, takes a lot of energy.'

The decision not to have another child actually influenced Sofia's split from Joe, 47.

Here Sofia is seen on the back patio of her $26M mansion in the exclusive Beverly Park neighborhood of Los Angeles last week

A beautiful table was set up outside with a green and ivory table cloth, green crystal glasses and gold cutlery, along with Fajer Fahad, founder of Beauline Beauty (second from top left)

Despite this, the actress respects anyone who wishes to have a child in their 50s.

She explained: 'Nowadays, thanks to science, women can actually have babies older. Before, nature for some reason tells your body at 50 you are in menopause, it's time for you to be done with that. There is a reason why nature is doing that.

'But that's for me, and I totally respect where anyone wants to be a mom after 50.

'I didn't think because of my career, the way I live my life, the way my marriage was, that it was fair to bring a kid to this world, and I'm not going to be able to give 100 percent.'

Sofia is also glad that she had her son when she was younger.

The actress shared: 'It is great that I had him young, because now I'm going to be 52, and he's 32.

'I wish I was older sometimes, because I would've been more mature, more prepared to be a mother, but that was what I got and what happened. So I just kept going and try not to look back at it, because it is what it is. But it is fun because I kind of grew up together with my son.'
Kevin Costner cast his own son Hayes Logan Costner as the character Nathaniel Kittredge, who defends his family from a home invasion in the opening of his $100M-budget four-part western Horizon: An American Saga.

'It was thrilling and exhilarating to shoot with so much action, I mean big action, happening all around me,' the 15-year-old high schooler gushed to People on Wednesday.

'Like people running, glass breaking, gunfire and all that commotion! It was an adrenaline rush for sure.'

Hayes - who was 13 at the time of filming - continued: 'It felt like the greatest way that we could bond over something we both love and to create lasting memories together. Working with my dad was an unforgettable moment in time.'

The 69-year-old Yellowstone star named his character Hayes Ellison after his son, whom he just wanted to 'keep close.'

Kevin Costner cast his own son Hayes Logan Costner as the character Nathaniel Kittredge, who defends his family from a home invasion in the opening of his $100M-budget four-part western Horizon: An American Saga (pictured May 19)

The 15-year-old high schooler gushed to People on Wednesday: 'It was thrilling and exhilarating to shoot with so much action, I mean big action, happening all around me. Like people running, glass breaking, gunfire and all that commotion! It was an adrenaline rush for sure'

'I knew that, you know, he wouldn't be out there for very long and I wouldn't have him locked at this age for the rest of my life, but now I'm now I'm locked with him forever. I wanted him to be close to me,' Kevin explained.

'He comes off very well in the movie. He's so beautiful. I have not ever pushed that on any of my children. There was so many things about a set he didn't even know really because I haven't immersed them in it. Their lives are their lives.'

Costner had planned on casting his 14-year-old daughter Grace Avery Costner as the character Elizabeth, but she wanted to be a normal child and didn't want to leave her friends or school behind.

'There are kids that would kill to do that, but she knows herself,' the twice-divorced father-of-seven explained.

'It was a struggle and she cried and she didn't want to hurt my feelings. Whenever I can trap my children, I do, to come be with me, you know?'

The two-time Oscar winner did manage to convince his son Joe Tedrick Costner to portray a mystery role in the third chapter of Horizon.

The 36-year-old Dudley frontman previously had small roles in Kevin's films Tin Cup (1996) and The Postman (1997).

Costner spent $38M of his own money and mortgaged a beachfront property in Santa Barbara in order to help fund his epic, set before and after the Civil War, which received a seven-minute standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival on May 19.

Hayes - who was 13 at the time of filming - continued: 'It felt like the greatest way that we could bond over something we both love and to create lasting memories together. Working with my dad was an unforgettable moment in time'

The 69-year-old Yellowstone star named his character Hayes Ellison after his son, whom he just wanted to 'keep close'

Kevin explained in his cover story: 'I knew that, you know, he wouldn't be out there for very long and I wouldn't have him locked at this age for the rest of my life, but now I'm now I'm locked with him forever. I wanted him to be close to me'

Costner added: 'He comes off very well in the movie. He's so beautiful. I have not ever pushed that on any of my children. There was so many things about a set he didn't even know really because I haven't immersed them in it. Their lives are their lives'

Costner had planned on casting his 14-year-old daughter Grace Avery Costner (R, pictured May 19) as the character Elizabeth, but she wanted to be a normal child and didn't want to leave her friends or school behind

The twice-divorced father-of-seven explained: 'There are kids that would kill to do that, but she knows herself. It was a struggle and she cried and she didn't want to hurt my feelings. Whenever I can trap my children, I do, to come be with me, you know?'

The two-time Oscar winner did manage to convince his son Joe Tedrick Costner (R) to portray a mystery role in the third chapter of Horizon

Costner spent $38M of his own money and mortgaged a beachfront property in Santa Barbara in order to help fund his epic, set before and after the Civil War, which received a seven-minute standing ovation at Cannes Film Festival on May 19

Hayes recalled: 'The best part of being in Cannes with my family was watching all my dad's hard work come to life in the theater. Seeing my dad's emotional response, hearing and feeling the audience applaud him, the standing ovation, taking it all in... it was heartwarming to see everyone appreciate the time and love he put into the film'

The avid surfer got to walk the red carpet alongside his sister Grace, his 17-year-old brother Cayden Wyatt Costner (2-L) as well as his half-sisters 37-year-old Lily McCall Costner (R) and 40-year-old Annie Clayton Costner (L)

Worryingly, Horizon Part One currently has a dismal 43% critic approval rating (out of 28 reviews) on Rotten Tomatoes

The first chapter of Horizon: An American Saga hits US theaters June 28 and the second chapter hits US theaters August 16

The Emmy winner pays his ex-wife #2 Christine Baumgartner $63K/month in child support to help care for their three children after settling their contentious divorce battle on September 19 - five months after their legal separation following 18 years of marriage (pictured in 2019)

'The best part of being in Cannes with my family was watching all my dad's hard work come to life in the theater,' Hayes recalled.

'Seeing my dad's emotional response, hearing and feeling the audience applaud him, the standing ovation, taking it all in... it was heartwarming to see everyone appreciate the time and love he put into the film.'

The avid surfer got to walk the red carpet alongside his sister Grace, his 17-year-old brother Cayden Wyatt Costner as well as his half-sisters 37-year-old Lily McCall Costner and 40-year-old Annie Clayton Costner.

Worryingly, Horizon Part One currently has a dismal 43% critic approval rating (out of 28 reviews) on Rotten Tomatoes.

The first chapter of Horizon: An American Saga hits US theaters June 28 and the second chapter hits US theaters August 16.

The film also features Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone, Michael Rooker, Danny Huston, Luke Wilson, and Jamie Campbell Bower.

The Emmy winner pays his ex-wife #2 Christine Baumgartner $63K/month in child support to help care for their three children after settling their contentious divorce battle on September 19 - five months after their legal separation following 18 years of marriage.

Kevin fathered three children - daughter Anne, daughter Lily, and son Joe - during his 16-year marriage to Cindy Costner, which ended in 1994.

Costner also has a 28-year-old son Liam with his ex-girlfriend Bridget Rooney.
Nathalie Emmanuel traded acting for activism on Wednesday during a guest appearance at the annual Cannes Lion International Festival of Creativity on the French Riviera.

The actress, better known for her starring roles in Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks and HBO fantasy series Game Of Thrones, attended the four-day film and marketing event as a celebrity speaker.

Emmanuel, 35, took part in a 30-minute discussion about the impact of global warming and dramatically changing weather on brands and business over the next twenty-six years.

Hosted by the United Nations Development Programme and The Weather Company, the event took place at Theatre Claude Debussy at the Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes.

Taking to the stage at the event, Emmanuel looked typically stylish in a loose-fitting white summer dress and black strappy heels.

Nathalie Emmanuel traded acting for activism on Wednesday during a guest appearance at the annual Cannes Lion International Festival of Creativity on the French Riviera

Emmanuel took part in a 30-minute discussion about the impact of global warming and dramatically changing weather on brands and business over the next twenty-six years

The actress was appearing in the South-of-France just weeks after her latest film, the Francis Ford Coppola directed Megalopolis, was savaged by critics at the annual Cannes Film Festival.

Despite its mixed response, the film - which features a star-studded cast that includes Adam Driver and Shia LaBeouf - is confirmation of Emmanuel's transition from little know teen soap star to Hollywood actress.

The British star previously admitted she was on the verge of quitting acting when she won her role as slave interpreter Missandei in Game Of Thrones.

Emmanuel had been in the acting wilderness since her four year role as Sasha Valentine on the Channel 4 soap ended in 2010 and was working in Hollister as a shop assistant.

Speaking on the Happy Sad Confused and Life In Film podcasts in 2022, she described the emotional moment she was told of her role in the HBO show.

She said: 'Game Of Thrones was a game changer for me. I had been to get my shopping and was walking home to my flat.

As I came into my building I got a call from my agent and she was like, "Nathalie, youve got it".

'Id just auditioned for a well-paying advert so I was like, "Oh great, I dont have to worry about the bills for a month. When should I come to London?"

Taking to the stage at the event, Emmanuel looked typically stylish in a loose-fitting white summer dress and black strappy heels

Hosted by the United Nations Development Programme and The Weather Company, the event took place at Theatre Claude Debussy at the Palace of Festivals and Congresses of Cannes

'She said: "You mean Belfast, you got Game Of Thrones."'

'I dropped all my shopping, I broke jars, I cried. I had tears of joy, it was so amazing and re-ignited something in me.'

The star said she had considered going back to study after struggling to cope with her 'soul-destroying' retail job, but the HBO drama ignited her passion for acting once more.

She recalled: 'At the time I had been thinking of going back to school because I felt, no one wants to hire me and Im not sure how long I can do this zero-hours retail job.

'Im not learning anything and mostly just managing my behaviour with rude customers. It was soul- destroying.'

She added: 'I was a fan of the show. I annoyed my agent for a while about getting an audition but I didnt actually think that was possible.

'Its been spoken of widely how they didnt cast people of colour in regular leading roles so when the opportunity came I was like, "This is mine!"

'But then it dawned on me that I actually had to do it. I was so excited and terrified.'
She did so on the arm of a fellow graduate, budding musician Toby Cohen, who attended as her date

Suri graduated from LaGuardia High School in New York City this year and last night attended her prom

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Suri Cruise looked pretty as a princess when she was seen heading out for her high school prom in New York City with a handsome date who slightly resembles her estranged father Tom Cruise.

Katie Holmes' lookalike daughter, 18, was spotted outside the Ascent Lounge and talking to friends on a sidewalk as she headed to a waiting car.

The youngest child of action movie star Cruise, 61, appeared to be in a great mood as she smiled plenty while chatting up her friends, including - DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal - Toby Cohen, a fellow high school graduate and budding musician who appears to have accompanied the teen to the milestone event as her date.

At one point the New Yorker - who has already chosen her college - posed for photos with Toby, who attended LaGuardia High School alongside the teenager and is set to attend the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston in the Fall, while Suri will head off to Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh.

Suri looked stunning in a floral print corset-style dress with a maroon piping. The look consisted of a bustier top that came in at the waistline, accentuating her slim figure, and a skirt that went to her knees.

The dancer added high-heeled gold strappy shoes as she went bare legged for the milestone event, which traditionally takes place during the end of the senior year of high school.

Suri Cruise looked pretty as a princess when she was seen heading out for her high school prom in New York City with a handsome date that slightly resembles her estranged father Tom Cruise

The 18-year-old looked radiant as she posed for photos with fellow LaGuardia High School graduate Toby Cohen, who appears to have been her date for the evening

Suri's date, budding musician Toby, wore a blue suit and brown dress shoes and gently took the teenager's arm as they posed for photos; he also had on a gold earring

Suri's dad Tom Cruise looked ripped showing off his muscles as he arrived back to London Heliport on Tuesday - the same day of his daughter's prom

There appeared to be no sign of Holmes, 45, but there was a woman in a black coat taking photographs of Suri, who turned 18 in April, as she posed up with Toby - who is preparing to study songwriting and voice at Berklee - and several other pals.

Meanwhile, Suri's estranged actor father Cruise was last seen flying a helicopter in London where he has been spending much of his time lately.

Suri's high school is LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, often referred to simply as LaGuardia, which is a public high school specializing in teaching visual arts and performing arts.

The prom group was spotted outside the Ascent Lounge in Columbus Circle in New York City.

Suri had a purple flower corsage on her wrist from her prom date Toby, revealing that the teen was following with tradition.

The budding star wore her hair parted in the middle and down in soft summer waves.

She also had on pretty makeup with a plum-toned lip that went with the dark maroon accents in her dress. And tying in the color, she had her nails painted a matching dark plum tone.

Suri was seen walking into a building with Toby, who had on a dark blue suit with light brown leather dress shoes. And he had a white flower boutonniere on his jacket that was likely from Suri.

Both Suri and Toby had gold rings on their wedding fingers. Suri also added a purple gemstone ring on her index finger and small gold earrings.

They held hands which made it clear he was her date for the big night and at another point he held her arm as he guided her into a building.

The recent high school graduate held hands with Toby and in her other hand was a small black clutch purse

Suri added high-heeled gold strappy shoes as she went bare legged for the milestone event that takes place during the end of the senior year of high school

Suri and Toby posed with pals as a woman in all black took photos of the kids on their special night

Toby put his hand on the teen's hip as they got into the group photo mood

The teen looked stunning in a print dress with a maroon piping. The look consisted of a bustier top that came in at the waistline, accentuating her slim figure, and a skirt that went to her knees

They had many friends around them as they got ready to hang out in the party setting

And when they posed for photos, he put his hands around her waist.

She also posed with several female friends; one had on a blue dress with a hot pink scarf around her shoulders; another had on a long royal blue gown and the third was elegant in a pink and black dress with black strappy heels.

Toby showed off his artistic skills as he got behind the camera to snap photos of the group.

Suri was also seen posing for photos with another man in a dark suit who appeared to be her pal's date.

There were hints that Suri was going to attend prom this summer as she was seen looking at dresses three weeks ago in New York City.

The star was spotted at a dress shop in lower Manhattan.

But the dress could belong to her fashion minded mother Katie, who recently shared that her only child often 'steals' clothing out of her closet. Holmes is known for wearing designer gowns from her pals like Zac Posen.

Cruise has also hinted where she will attend college as she wore a Carnegie Mellon University sweatshirt in early June.

DailyMail.com exclusively revealed she has been accepted into Pittsburgh's prestigious Carnegie Mellon University - which is about a two-hour flight, or a nine-hour drive from Berklee, where Toby will be studying.

Suri revealed her Tartan pride in a playful TikTok where she and her friends each wore their chosen college's sweatshirt and revealed the name to the camera.

Toby put a hand on her hip, left, as they posed away; later he took some photos himself with his cell phone

Katie Holmes Jr also wore small gold earrings and a large purple gemstone ring on her index finger

Holmes' lookalike daughter, 18, was spotted outside the Ascent Lounge and talking to friends on a sidewalk as she headed to waiting car

The youngest child of action movie star Cruise, 61, appeared to be in a great mood as she smiled plenty while chatting up her friends

Two men around Suri! Toby on the left appeared to have a ring on his left hand and a bracelet on his right hand; Suri too had a ring on her left hand

Her corsage was purple with a white bow

Suri, whose famous father has had no part in her upbringing, has always been determined to forge her own way.

She applied to a host of colleges with the artistic teen 'leaning towards' studying fashion.

Carnegie Mellon's School of Design is one of the oldest and most highly ranked programs in the country.

Now, with her acceptance into its hallowed halls, a notably chic mother and a wardrobe said to be worth $5million, Suri is off to the best possible start if that is her chosen path.

One insider told DailyMail.com: 'She is a smart girl, and she is turning into a very intelligent mature young woman. She has a very close group of loyal friends, and she knows exactly where she comes from.'

But though Holmes will surely be proud of her daughter's stellar achievement sources say she is 'overwhelmed' at the thought of sending her little girl off to college.

Speaking recently, one told DailyMail.com: 'Katie takes great pride in her but is also extremely overprotective.'

Perhaps it's little wonder given that, for the past 11 years, Holmes has effectively raised Suri solo.

Sixty-one-year-old Cruise's only input to his daughter's life has been financial and he hasn't been seen with his daughter since 2013, after Holmes quit both the marriage and the Church of Scientology  the religion to which Cruise is so devoted.

According to their divorce settlement, Cruise agreed to pay Holmes $400,000 a year until Suri turned 18 and will continue to pay for her college fees as well.

Here Suri looked overjoyed as she hugged a male friend in a dark suit with a white shirt

Toby is seen far right as he takes photos of the girls; Suri appeared to be the tallest

All of the ladies put their arms in the air as they stood in front of a sign for the Ascent Lounge

Under the terms of their agreement, though he may be physically absent from his daughter's life, he has and will continue to cover, 'medical, dental, insurance, education, college and other extracurricular costs.'

But despite having little if any relationship with her dad, Suri is, according to sources, a happy and well-adjusted teen who has loved growing up in New York City.

Earlier this week she was seen out running in the city's Central Park as she enjoyed an early morning workout in the June sunshine.

Later she switched workout gear for a simple white summer dress paired with brown boots as she headed out to dinner in Soho with her mother and grandmother, Kathleen Stomer-Holmes.

Suri seemed to be in the best mood of her life as she laughed while next to her pretty friend who had on a strapless fuchsia gown with a mermaid finish

These ladies seemed to be her best friends as she stuck out one gold shoe to nail her supermodel pose

Holmes and Cruise had reportedly been keen to co-parent when they initially divorced in 2012.

But Cruise's religion proved a bar to any continued contact with his ex-wife and child, just as it did to his former spouse, Nicole Kidman.

The 56-year-old actress has had no relationship with the son and daughter that she and Cruise adopted since she left the Church of Scientology, and they remained in it.

Non-believers are deemed 'suppressive' by Scientologists and despite the Church's official denials multiple former Scientologists speak of being forbidden from having any continued relationship with people who have left the Church, regardless of the nature of their relationship.

Meanwhile, Katie has already come up with projects to keep her busy after Suri leaves for college.

The actress, who has created her own capsule collection with French brand A.P.C., wants to become the next celebrity to launch her own beauty line, according to the Sunday Times.

'Absolutely, I would love to,' she told the outlet when asked if cosmetics were part of her future plans.

Over the past few years, Holmes has focused on moviemaking and getting more stage experience.

She wrote the script for, starred in and directed the 2022 romantic drama Alone Together, about a couple in a bad relationship who end up at the same upstate New York vacation rental.

That project was followed by 2023's Rare Objects.

Cruise showed off her Tartan pride in a TikTok video revealing her college of choice, Carnegie Mellon University

Holmes co-wrote the script, directed and starred in the story of a young woman recovering from trauma who regains her confidence after finding a job in an antique shop.

'Id like to continue to write and direct my own films,' she told the outlet,' adding, 'Maybe write a few books - fiction.'

The actress also returned to the stage in 2023, starring in The Wanderers.

Recently, Holmes was asked to create her own collection with A.P.C.

'I really look at other people that have an innate sense of style. And Im like, "Oh - that with that! OK, thats cool."

'Im always looking for inspiration' she said.

'I like to mix and match classic pieces. I like vintage a lot.

'Living in New York City I have to have things that are practical and comfortable. The city influences my style.'

Those practical pieces include, 'ballet flats, sneakers, baggy jeans and a T-shirt,' she said. 'I like putting it together in a way that doesnt look like you put it together.'

For the collection she visited the A.P.C. archives for inspiration. 'I remember the 90s as being about looking really simple and very natural.'

Holmes was married to Top Gun star and famous Scientologist Tom Cruise from 2006 to 2012, when they divorced and she left the church; Katie, Tom and Suri seen in 2011 in Pennsylvania

'Thats what I wanted this collection to embody - pieces that are cool but not recognizable and can fit into your existing wardrobe seamlessly.'

That seems to be part of Holmes' innate style. As a teenager, she always brought someone with her on photos shoots to make sure she wasn't sexualized.

'I didnt want to be the sexy young thing. I am not sexy,' she told Glamour.

'I used to have a friend of mine come to all my photo shoots to make sure that they didnt try to make me that way! I guess I just wanted to be an actor.'
Eva Longoria looks better than ever these days which she proved in a new photo shoot that showed off her toned figure.

The 49-year-old Desperate Housewives alum has posed in sexy numbers for DuJour magazine.

In the issue, the mother-of-one talked about her new show on Apple TV+, Land of Women, which launches in June.

She will also be in the fourth season of the hit series Only Murders in the Building, set to debut on Hulu in late August.

During her chat, she also talked about working with her 'cousin' Meryl Streep on Only Murders, kissing Eddie Murphy for their film The Pickup and how Tom Cruise is the 'kindest human being.'

Eva Longoria looks better than ever these days which she proved in a new photo shoot that showed off her toned figure; here she is seen bra free in a vest

The 49-year-old Desperate Housewives alum has posed in sexy numbers for DuJour magazine

Eva said she was happy to act with Meryl Streep on Only Murders In The Building. Turns out they are distant cousins.

'We actually call each other cousin,' Longoria laughs. 'We'll say, 'How are you, cousin?' and 'I'm good, cousin.'

In the first Zoom table read for Only Murders, Streep introduced Longoria as her cousin.

'She tells the story and everyone's so confused, because I'm the most Latina person in the industry and she's Meryl Streep,' Longoria recalled.

The team was like family.

'We talked a lot about democracy and politics,' Longoria said.

'But when you have leaders like Steve Martin and Martin Short, you're never not laughing. Watching them make a lunch order is a show in itself. It's a constant roast about a sandwich, a 30-minute comedy about mustard.'

And she has kissed Eddie Murphy in The Pickup.

She liked working with Murphy. 'He's my Hollywood. He's my kind of funny. He's a comedy savant,' she gushed.

'And of course the first day on set, we have to kiss,' Longoria shared. 'So it was like, "Nice to meet you," and then mwah.'

But it was tame. 'We didn't have makeout scenes,' Longoria noted. 'It was just a good-morning kiss. He's very private. I just sat and listened.'

In the issue, the mother-of-one talked about her new show on Apple TV+, Land of Women, which launches in June

She will also be in the fourth season of the hit series Only Murders in the Building, set to debut on Hulu in late August

She also partied with Tom Cruise at Victoria Beckham's 50th birthday party in London in April.

Cruise 'is the kindest human being and the best dancer. I've seen him dance at many parties,' she said.

'I danced for five hours at the party and we didn't leave till 3 a.m.,' Longoria said. 'I woke up sore wondering if I'd worked out [too hard] the day before. No, we just danced a lot.'

Longoria has a ton of projects, and she likes it that way.

She recently filmed for an upcoming adaptation of A Christmas Carol (called Christmas Karma) directed by Gurinder Chadha (Bend It Like Beckham), in which she plays the Ghost of Christmas Past.

Then there is her tequila brand, Casa del Sol, which she launched in 2021.

She recently announced that she would become a strategic advisor and investor in Siete Foods, the fastest-growing Hispanic food company in the United States, known primarily for its gluten-free tortilla chips.

During her chat, she also talked about kissing Eddie Murphy for their film The Pickup

She also partied with Tom Cruise at Victoria Beckham's 50th birthday party in London in April. Cruise 'is the kindest human being and the best dancer. I've seen him dance at many parties,' she said

Eva also said she was happy to act with Meryl Streep on Only Murders In The Building. Turns out they are distant cousins. Meryl seen getting her Oscar

'What can I say? I'm the ultimate multitasker,' she said. 'I don't like wasting time. I consider time like money. You're either spending it or you're wasting it, and I choose to spend it.'

She lives between the U.S., Mexico City and Spain, she said.

The Hollywood icon and her husband, the media mogul Jose Baston, love to travel. They also have a five-year-old son named Santiago.

Longoria she still can't believe all of her success.

'I recently was in an airport in Poland and I saw myself in a big L'Oreal ad. And all I could think was, That's so crazy. That's me. I'm still really confused, and I'm always surprised,' Longoria said.

She started as Flight Attendant #3 on an episode of Beverly Hills, 90210. Then in 2004 came Desperate Housewives. Now she has directed the film Flamin' Hot.

Longoria has a ton of projects, and she likes it that way. She recently filmed for an upcoming adaptation of A Christmas Carol (called Christmas Karma) directed by Gurinder Chadha (Bend It Like Beckham), in which she plays the Ghost of Christmas Past

'I usually reverse-engineer my projects,' says Longoria of her work as a producer. 'I start with a place I want to shoot.'

For Land of Women, she wanted to film in Spain's wine country in the small medieval city of Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dali.

'So much of television is set in a dystopian future, and I can't watch television set in a dystopian future,' said Longoria.

'I don't want to worry and then start setting up my doomsday bunker after watching a television show.'

Land of Women, she explains, is optimistic, 'very blue skies and fish-out-of-water. You just want to be there.'

The show is bilingual.

Then there is her tequila brand, Casa del Sol, which she launched in 2021. She recently announced that she would become a strategic advisor and investor in Siete Foods, the fastest-growing Hispanic food company in the United States, known primarily for its gluten-free tortilla chips

'What can I say? I'm the ultimate multitasker,' she said. 'I don't like wasting time. I consider time like money. You're either spending it or you're wasting it, and I choose to spend it'

'This wasn't possible 10 or 15 years ago, but streaming has made content more global. The No. 1 show is Squid Game in Korean. Subtitles are very acceptable, and so is the idea of Spanglish. We've changed the way we seek out storytellers and points of view.

'I'd never acted in Spanish,' Longoria admitted. 'My brain hurt at the end of the day. But I'm the American in the show. I make a lot of mistakes in Spanish, like I do in life. I say the wrong word at the wrong moment.'

After the success of Flamin' Hot, Longoria decided to take a break from directing.

'You could not have stopped me from making that movie,' she says. But even for someone who's always steering the ship, it was a lot of work.

'I'm not rushing to make my sophomore movie because I'm looking for something to speak to me,' she said.

'I'll know it when I read it.'
Amanda Abbington was spotted looking tearful while being comforted by actress pal Sue Vincent outside swanky spot The Groucho Club in London on Wednesday.

The Sherlock star, 50, appeared overcome with emotion after Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas defended 'true gentleman' Giovanni Pernice this week following his exit from the BBC show.

Amanda was paired with the Italian professional during last year's competition only to quit amid accusations of his 'threatening and abusive behaviour' which she said left her suffering from PTSD.

The broadcaster then opened a workplace 'misconduct' probe following claims Giovanni was also 'abrasive' to former partners Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore.

Amanda cut a causal figure in a jumper and jeans as she chatted with her pal outside the private member's club before being enveloped in an embrace.

Amanda Abbington (L) was spotted looking tearful while being comforted by actress pal Sue Vincent (R) outside swanky spot The Groucho Club in London on Wednesday

The Sherlock star, 50, appeared overcome with emotion after Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas defended 'true gentleman' Giovanni Pernice this week

Shirley has hailed the dancer, 33, saying they socialise outside of work and she has only had positive experiences with him (pictured together)

Shirley, 63, has hailed Giovanni saying they socialise outside of work and she has only had positive experiences with him.

Speaking at Q&A for her new crime novel, according to The Sun, she said: 'He is coming to my party on Sunday. You know, I can only talk from my own perspective.

'I have known Giovanni for ten years. He has always been to me,  and I will make that clear, to me  a perfect gentleman.

'I don't condone bullying on any path. But I don't believe gossip because things are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball.'

Shirley added that her mother Audrey 'loves' Giovanni and always makes time to say hello to them.

She said: 'It does not matter when he is on tour, or where he is or what he is doing, he will make his way across and he will say 'Lovely to see you Shirley. Lovely to see your mum.'

The TV personality said she will not judge anyone until the investigation has been fully carried out and added Giovanni 'will be missed' on the show this year.

Elsewhere, Shirley described Giovanni as a 'hard worker' who always tries his best.

Amanda cut a causal figure in a jumper and jeans as she chatted with her pal outside the private member's club before being enveloped in an embrace

She was paired with the Italian during last year's competition only to quit amid accusations of his 'threatening and abusive behaviour'

Upset she raised her hands to her mouth

The broadcaster then opened a workplace 'misconduct' probe following claims Giovanni was also 'abrasive' to former partners Ranvir Singh and Laura Whitmore

She spoke intently with her friends before becoming emotional

Sue appeared to speak encouraging words to an emotional Amanda

Another also also comforted the tearful star

Amanda and Giovanni pictured together on Strictly

She told Best magazine: 'I think everybody in the Strictly cast is fantastic and I've known Giovanni a long, long time. I've known him probably longer than a lot of people have known him and I can only talk from personal experience.

'He's got a work ethic that is the same as mine. He works hard and he wants the best for anybody who wants to learn. He's a true gentleman and, of course, he always looks drop-dead gorgeous.'

Shirley noted that Giovanni is an incredibly considerate person in general who goes out of his way to make someone feel 'super-special'.

She added: 'He always puts his best foot forward and is always on time, he's one of those very thoughtful people. He called me the other day to invite my mum to a show he was doing because they love each other. As popular as he is, he will always try and make his way to any fan who wants to see him and will always make them feel super-special.'

Despite the furore, head judge Shirley has stood by the under-fire pro and will join him in hosting a number of dance classes in London next month.

Named Ballando, the one-day event is led by Shirley, Giovanni and Anton Du Beke as they share their expertise with fans.

Giovanni's absence from the Strictly line-up was revealed when the BBC shared the names of the professionals appearing this year.

This season will see the return of Amy Dowden , who was treated for breast cancer last year, alongside Dianne Buswell , Nadiya Bychkova, Graziano Di Prima, Karen Hauer, Katya Jones, Neil Jones, Nikita Kuzmin, Gorka Marquez and Luba Mushtuk.

Joining them on the dancefloor are Jowita Przystal , Johannes Radebe , Kai Widdrington, Nancy Xu, Carlos Gu, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas and Vito Coppola.

The BBC also confirmed the return of judges Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Craig Revel-Horwood and Anton Du Beke.

Executive producer Sarah James said in a statement: 'This year Strictly marks two decades of entertaining the nation and we will be back with a bang in September as we celebrate in style with our incredible team both on and off screen.'

The actress claimed her time on Strictly had left her suffering from PTSD

Amanda's eye make-up appeared smudged following her tears

She and her pals enjoyed a lunch date at the celebrity hot spot

Shirley said: 'I have known Giovanni for ten years. He has always been to me,  and I will make that clear, to me  a perfect gentleman'

She added: 'I don't condone bullying on any path. But I don't believe gossip because things are blown way out of all proportion and it can turn into a great big snowball' (Giovanni, right, pictured with Anton Du Beke)

It comes after the Daily Mail revealed BBC bosses are 'furious' that leaks of confidential details of the probe have been made public.

It was reported that claims Giovanni would 'grab his crotch' when one of his partners did well have been heard by investigators.

The Sun newspaper also told how Amanda said her foot was bruised after Pernice stood on it.

BBC bosses are said to be 'concerned' and are wanting to find out how this information is being released.

They are also worried that the leaks mean that Giovanni, who quit Strictly in April after nine years, is being vilified by the public.

One insider at the corporation told the Mail: 'We are talking about a confidential, internal inquiry here yet there are several elements finding their way into the public domain now.

'While it isn't an HR issue, it is an investigation which the BBC are taking seriously.

'The bosses want to know why this is happening. They want to find the leak. If you are Giovanni here you might be thinking that this is highly unfair.

'It also seems quite rum that it is all anti-Giovanni. There is nothing coming out in his favour at all. It's all very strange.'

The inquiry began last month and the outcome is expected within a few weeks.

It all began when Amanda revealed to The Sun in January that she had got post-traumatic stress disorder after appearing on Strictly last year when she was paired with Pernice.

She also asked for video footage of her rehearsals with the Sicilian dancer.

After he was offered a contract to return to the series, which starts in September, Ms Abbington instructed London-based legal firm Carter-Ruck to represent her along with two other female stars who have appeared on Strictly.

Strictly head judge Shirley said: 'My feeling for Giovanni is, let them do this investigation or whatever it is they are doing and the truth will come out'

Despite the furore, head judge Shirley has stood by the under-fire pro and will join him in hosting a number of dance classes in London next month alongside Anton Du Beke

The organisation is reportedly scouring nine years of footage from Strictly professional Giovanni's training sessions, as the explosive show scandal continues to rumble on

Three women, including actress Amanda Abbington (pictured), have hired 700-an-hour lawyers at leading London law firm Carter Ruck to pursue claims against Giovanni and the BBC

Ms Abbington reportedly met up with Laura Whitmore and Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh  also former partners of Pernice  to discuss his so-called bad behaviour.

Giovanni responded by hiring rival firm Schillings, which has represented royals such Prince Harry and Meghan, as well as J. K. Rowling and Ryan Giggs.

He has vowed not to be cancelled and is fully co-operating with the investigation. In the last fortnight he has begun to engage with the BBC. He expects to be exonerated.

In a statement, the dancer said: 'Giovanni is fully committed to clearing his name and defending his reputation against all false and misleading accusations against him.'

On Instagram yesterday Pernice, who is currently on tour across the country with Strictly star Anton Du Beke, branded allegations about his teaching methods 'simply false'.

Earlier this week a male celebrity reportedly joined the group of women making complaints about Giovanni 's behaviour (pictured with previous dance partner Ranvir Singh)

The Sicilian dancer is accused of 'threatening and abusive behaviour' while working with celebrity contestants on the show (pictured with Laura Whitmore in 2016)

He wrote: 'Every week, there are totally untrue stories about me in the media.

'As you know, I have always rejected any suggestion of abusive or threatening behaviour. The latest accusations are simply false.

'I am co-operating fully with the ongoing BBC investigation, which will determine the truth.

'As requested, I have stayed silent, but I am looking forward to the conclusion of the investigation and ultimately clearing my name and establishing the truth.'

As the investigation into Giovanni 's alleged inappropriate behaviour continues the BBC have reportedly brought in two ex Met officers to conduct the interviews.

And it is understood they have already interviewed at least one female complainant, The Sun has revealed.

The other two are due to be seen in the coming days as the organisation continue to reportedly scour nine years of footage from Giovanni's training sessions.

A source told the publication: 'The BBC is taking this extremely seriously.

'Two ex-Met cops are conducting all the interviews and have been tasked with gathering evidence  including texts and screenshots  which they will present to corporation executives.

'Giovanni has not yet been spoken to.'

MailOnline have contacted Giovanni's representatives. The BBC chose not to comment when approached for a statement.
The Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner said he's still not ready to date six days after finalizing his divorce from the winning contestant Theresa Nist following three months of wedded bliss (and eight months of knowing each other).

The 72-year-old reality star told TMZ on Wednesday that numerous eligible women have approached him in public spaces, such as wineries, and virtually, through Instagram DMs, where they pass along their phone numbers.

Gerry is flattered by the onslaught of bold female attention, but he hasn't spoken with anyone as he's reportedly 'cautious of women who reach out to him first.'

Turner told the outlet that whenever he's ready to date he'd prefer to meet someone 'organically' without dating apps, and they'll have to live somewhere nearby his $637K, 365-acre four-bedroom lakeside home in LaGrange County in Indiana.

Distance is particularly important to the former hot tub installer considering his quickie marriage to the 70-year-old financial services professional ended because she wanted to remain in New Jersey and he wanted to remain in the Hoosier State.

The Golden Bachelor Gerry Turner said he's still not ready to date six days after finalizing his divorce from the winning contestant Theresa Nist following three months of wedded bliss (and eight months of knowing each other)

The 72-year-old reality star told TMZ on Wednesday that numerous eligible women have approached him in public spaces, such as wineries, and virtually, through Instagram DMs, where they've pass along their phone numbers (pictured Sunday)

The former septuagenarian lovebirds - who had a prenup - never cashed in on their free honeymoon trip to Italy, but an Indiana judge signed off on both their dissolution of marriage and marital settlement agreement last Thursday - according to TMZ.

'We looked at homes in South Carolina, we considered New Jersey, and we just looked at homes after home,' Theresa explained on GMA on April 12.

'But we never got to the point where we made that decision [of cohabitating].'

Gerry added: 'The thing that strikes me the most in our conversations, it's been how dedicated both of us are to our families. So we look at these situations and I think we just feel like it's best for the happiness of each of us to, to live apart.'

On May 14, Turner publicly congratulated his former contestant Joan Vassos - who quit The Golden Bachelor in week three due to a family emergency - on being named the first-ever Golden Bachelorette in an ABC spin-off airing this fall.

'You will be phenomenal as the new representative of a generation,' the former maintenance man - who boasts 156K Instagram followers - gushed.

'From one Golden to another... relax, breathe, and enjoy!'

The 61-year-old private school administrator replied: 'What a beautiful message from my fellow Golden. You have taught me so much about being open and vulnerable and how looking for love at this age can be dignified and fun. Thank you my friend for setting the stage for the rest of us Goldens and I'm open to advice!'

Gerry is flattered by the onslaught of bold female attention, but he hasn't spoken with anyone as he's reportedly 'cautious of women who reach out to him first' (pictured June 6)

Turner told the outlet that whenever he's ready to date he'd prefer to meet someone 'organically' without dating apps, and they'll have to live somewhere nearby his $637K, 365-acre four-bedroom lakeside home in LaGrange County in Indiana (pictured May 26)

Distance is particularly important to the former hot tub installer considering his quickie marriage to the 70-year-old financial services professional (R, pictured April 4) ended because she wanted to remain in New Jersey and he wanted to remain in the Hoosier State

The former septuagenarian lovebirds - who had a prenup - never cashed in on their free honeymoon trip to Italy, but an Indiana judge signed off on both their dissolution of marriage and marital settlement agreement last Thursday

Theresa explained on GMA on April 12: 'We looked at homes in South Carolina, we considered New Jersey, and we just looked at homes after home. But we never got to the point where we made that decision [of cohabitating]'

On May 14, Gerry publicly congratulated his former contestant Joan Vassos - who quit The Golden Bachelor in week three due to a family emergency - on being named the first-ever Golden Bachelorette in an ABC spin-off airing this fall

Turner gushed: 'You will be phenomenal as the new representative of a generation. From one Golden to another... relax, breathe, and enjoy!'

The 61-year-old private school administrator replied: 'What a beautiful message from my fellow Golden. You have taught me so much about being open and vulnerable and how looking for love at this age can be dignified and fun. Thank you my friend for setting the stage for the rest of us Goldens and I'm open to advice!'

Gerry was originally described as a retired restaurateur, but he reportedly sold his only Mr. Quick hamburger drive-in franchise way back in 1985.

On November 29, THR revealed Turner had a 10-month, live-in relationship with a woman between 2018-2019, but they split after he refused to bring her to his high school reunion because she 'gained 10lbs.'

Bachelor Nation fans are some of the most passionate and devoted, despite the horrible track record for couples remaining together on the various shows.

Out of the 28 prior seasons of The Bachelor, only four couples are still together including Sean and Catherine Lowe from season 17.

Out of 20 seasons of The Bachelorette, four couples remain together including Ryan and Trista Sutter from season one.

Surprisingly, Bachelor in Paradise is the most successful franchise with 10 couples remaining together after nine seasons.
Paul McCartney reportedly celebrated his 82nd birthday on Tuesday with a low-key family dinner at an upscale restaurant.

The Beatles star is said to have marked his special day at the 17th century Boys Hall hotel in Ashford, Kent along with his wife Nancy and his five children.

According to The Sun, fellow diners at the venue were shocked when the legendary musician arrived for his meal.

A source said: 'Paul and his family booked a private room.

'They were quietly ushered in on Tuesday night and were taken to the Drawing Room, where the chefs cooked a three-course feast for them.

Paul McCartney reportedly celebrated his 82nd birthday on Tuesday with a low-key family dinner at an upscale restaurant (pictured with his wife Nancy in February 2024)

The Beatles star is said to have marked his special day at the 17th century Boys Hall hotel in Ashford, Kent along with his wife Nancy and his five children

'It was super low-key, just Paul and his closest family members. He looked really happy and seemed to be enjoying a quieter celebration. They left just after 10.30pm.'

Paul is father to Mary, 54, Stella, 52, and James, 46, with his ex-wife Linda. He also adopted Linda's daughter Heather, 61, who she had prior to thier marriage.

The musician also shares Beatrice, 20, with his ex-wife Heather Mills.

It comes after Paul stunned fans as he announced four new UK dates to his Got Back world tour on Monday.

Fans couldn't get over that the veteran rocker is 'still touring' at 81-years-old, with some hailing him a 'legend and national treasure'.

The musician will bring his Got Back world tour to the United Kingdom in December as part of a newly announced set of European concerts.

And while excitement spread around Britain about his extended tour, many fans were in disbelief that the age-defying rocker isn't stopping anytime soon.

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, some commented: 'Sir Paul McCartney is going to be doing some gigs at the end of the year he's 81 and he's still rocking he is a Legend and National Treasure',

Paul pictured with Barbara Bach, Ringo Starr, Nancy and his children Stella (third from left) and Mary (right)

A source said: 'Paul and his family booked a private room. They were ushered in on Tuesday night and were taken to the Drawing Room, where the chefs cooked a feast for them'

'Paul McCartney is 82 and still touring. Incredible',

'And I will spend every pound i've got',

'Worth it. He's still far better than you'd reasonably expect any 82-year-old to be and his band is phenomenal too.'

The legendary musician has been touring the United States, South America and Australia since kicking off the tour at Washington state's Spokane Arena in April 2022.

He will now return to his home country for the first time since headlining that year's Glastonbury Festival with four shows across December.

Sir Paul will play Manchester's Co-Op Live on December 14th and 15th, followed by two consecutive shows at London's O2 Arena on the 18th and 19th.

His last show in London was in 2018 at The O2 and his last Manchester show was in 2011 at the Manchester Evening News Arena. These UK shows will round off the Got Back tour 2024 dates.

'I'm excited to be ending my year and 2024 tour dates in the UK,' The Beatles legend said in a statement confirming the four dates.

'It's always such a special feeling to play shows on our home soil. It's going to be an amazing end to the year. Let's get set to party. I can't wait to see you.'
kate moss oozed sophistication as she stepped out to support her friend Naomi Campbell for the opening of her exhibition at the V&A.

English supermodel Kate, 50, looked chic in a champagne slip dress for the V&A Summer Party celebrating 'Naomi: In Fashion' supported by Boss in London.

However she skipped out on the red carpet for the event on Tuesday, later being pictured with hairstylist Sam McKnight and fashion designer Daphne Guinness.

She looked elegant in a plunging silk slip dress, complete with ruffled lining, and a black blazer.

Kate finished off the look with a black snake print clutch bag and a long pearl and gold necklace and silver tassel pendant.

Kate Moss oozed sophistication as she stepped out to support her friend Naomi Campbell for the opening of her exhibition at the V&A on Tuesday (Pictured with Sam McKnight)

English supermodel Kate, 50, looked chic in a champagne slip dress for the V&A Summer Party celebrating 'Naomi: In Fashion' supported by Boss in London (Pictured with Daphne Guinness)

Her friend and fellow supermodel Naomi, 54, was the centre of attention as the evening celebrated the opening of NAOMI: In Fashion, an exhibition in her honour.

The Naomi: In Fashion exhibition explores the iconic model's amazing 40-year career in the fashion world.

It will open June 22 2024 and run until April 6 2025 and will feature past and present pieces from the designers who helped shape Naomi's early career.

Outfits from Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier, Virgil Abloh and more are set to be included.

According to the V&A website: 'The first exhibition of its kind exploring the extraordinary career of fashion model Naomi Campbell.

'Through the work of leading global designers and photographers we celebrate her creative collaborations, activism and far-reaching cultural impact.'

Kate's appearance for the exhibition comes a week after she proved herself to be the ultimate party girl when she dashed from a London dinner with new pal Taylor Swift to join another star-studded bash.

The supermodel's first stop of the night was Notting Hill restaurant Casa Cruz where she dined with Taylor Swift and the US star's new London girl squad Cara Delevingne, Andrew Scott and Phoebe Waller Bridge.

However she skipped out on the red carpet for the event on Tuesday, later being pictured with hairstylist Sam McKnight and fashion designer Daphne Guinness

She looked elegant in a plunging silk slip dress, complete with ruffled lining, and a black blazer

Kate finished off the look with a black snake print clutch bag and a long pearl and gold necklace and silver tassel pendant

Her friend and fellow supermodel Naomi, 54, was the centre of attention as the evening celebrated the opening of NAOMI: In Fashion, an exhibition in her honour

But after the dinner the party girl made a dash across town to her friend Charlotte Tilbury's house party where she was spotted mingling with the likes of Sienna Miller, Noel Gallagher and Damien Lewis until the early hours.

Kate wowed in a white satin pencil skirt and matching blazer for the wild night out, finishing her look with fishnets and platform heels.

Just hours earlier Kate was dining with Taylor as she hosted a star-studded dinner in Notting Hill during a break from the UK leg of her Eras tour.

The Naomi: In Fashion exhibition explores the iconic model's amazing 40-year career in the fashion world (Pictured in 2014)

It will open June 22 2024 and run until April 6 2025 and will feature past and present pieces from the designers who helped shape Naomi's early career (Pictured in 1998)

The group dined at Casa Cruz, which is described as an 'intimate, warm and elegant neighbourhood restaurant tucked into the leafy streets of London's Notting Hill'.

Taylor and co could have chosen to dine on the likes of a 250g beef fillet steak for 50 or a 1.2kg cote de boeuf would have cost 140, making it the most expensive dish on the menu.

The restaurant is where Rita Ora hosted her lockdown flouting 30th birthday bash in November 2020.
Naomi Watts looked happy when walking with her dog in New York City on Wednesday.

The 55-year-old sported a casual white t-shirt, light blue jeans, and Adidas sneakers as she made her way down the street.

Naomi accessorized with brown sunglasses and a beige purse as she kept her water bottle in hand.

The Feud actress had her AirPods in as she smiled softly at the camera while her fur baby trotted along next to her.

Naomi's return to The Big Apple comes on the heels of her and 55-year-old Billy Crudup's second wedding in Mexico.

Naomi Watts took a walk in New York City on Wednesday, following her return from Mexico , where she wed husband Billy Crudup , 55, for a second time

The couple vacationed on the beach and were photographed kissing in the water and holding hands while standing in the sand.

Days earlier, the British star threw a wedding ceremony in Mexico City, exactly one year after she and The Morning Show actor married in a New York City courthouse last June.

Naomi's brother, Ben Watts, confirmed the news with a sweet video of his sister and Billy standing in an elevator together.

Naomi wore a white gown and held a bouquet of matching flowers, while Billy, in a dark suit, stood behind her.

Also in the shot was The Watcher alum's 15-year-old daughter Kai -who Naomi shares with ex Liev Schreiber along with son Sasha, 16 - and niece Ruby who wore strapless gowns and served as bridesmaids.

The crew, including Billy's son William, 20, who he shares with ex Mary-Louise Parker, smiled and waved at the camera as the elevator doors closed.

'Off they go Naomi x Billy x family #benwatts #scrapbooking," Ben captioned the video set to Frank Sinatra's hit Love and Marriage

Another adorable shot showed Naomi and Billy sitting down at their welcome party, with their hands on one another as they watched someone off camera.

Naomi reposted the Instagram Story that read, 'Love is alive and well.'

The 55-year-old's return to The Big Apple comes on the heels of her and The Morning Show actor's honeymoon in Tulum, Mexico

Ben also shared a clip from the opening night ceremony that caught a piece of Naomi's speech to her guests.

'This is a reminder of what life's about,' the Gypsy actress said as she held her husband's hand. 'The affirmation of love being one of the simplest things, but the most important.'

Naomi first announced their nuptials last summer with an adorable snap of the duo standing in front of a Manhattan courthouse.

She simply captioned the picture, 'Hitched!'

Months later, Naomi opened up about the details surrounding their intimate ceremony.

During a January 2023 appearance on Live with Kelly and Mark, she revealed that 'nothing was planned because we wanted to keep it low-key.'

Naomi confessed, 'I even got my flowers from the bodega at the corner.'

But all that mattered to the Penguin Bloom star was that she had found her perfect half.

'It's never too late, right?' she told hosts Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos. 'We found each other later than yeah, late in life. And its really a special thing. Billy loves you guys  thank you for your kindness about that.'

During a welcome speech, The Feud actress shared with guests: 'This is a reminder of what life's about. The affirmation of love being one of the simplest things, but the most important'

And since tying the knot, Naomi has continued gushing over Billy IRL and social media.

Last month, the mom-of-two posted a photograph to Instagram of Billy on a theater stage in London, where he had taught a nine-week masterclass.

'Last weekend of @harryclarketheplay,' Naomi wrote. 'To those of you that saw this performance, I'm sure you'll agree it was a mind blowing experience.

'To those that have tix for this weekend (lucky ducks!) I know you'll feel the same. To those that missed it, maybe youll catch it in another town, in another year?'

Nicole Kidman attended the couple's Mexico wedding, sharing a sweet picture of herself and the bride to Instagram

She boasted, 'Please join me in congratulating my husband on his West End debut. He crushed it and blew the doors off!!'

Fellow actress Julianne Moore showed her support in the comments section, writing a slew of clapping emojis.

And back in January, Namoi spoke to Extra host Billy Bush about her husband's work on The Morning Show alongside Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon.

'It's exquisite,' she exclaimed. 'It's muscular. [His character] is a snake and so charming and lovely and then just snakes you. He is so fun to watch.'
Katy Perry's collaboration with music professional Dr. Luke on her forthcoming album has garnered a considerable amount of controversy amid past sexual assault allegations made against the producer by Kesha.

The 39-year-old songstress is collaborating with Dr. Luke, whose full name is Lukasz Gottwald, as well as Max Martin, Sarah Hudson and Stargate on her sixth record, Rolling Stone reported on Wednesday.

Perry 'knew exactly the album she wanted to make and put together the team to make it happen,' a Capitol Records source told the outlet of the collection of talent the former American Idol judge put together for her first release since 2020's Smile.

Perry and Dr. Luke, 50, have past collaborated on hit singles such as 2008's I Kissed a Girl, 2010's California Gurls and 2013's Roar.

The feedback online was pointed toward both Perry and Dr. Luke, who last year settled a defamation lawsuit with Kesha, 37, after she claimed in a 2014 lawsuit that he had sexually and physically abused her.

Katy Perry's collaboration with music professional Dr. Luke on her forthcoming album has garnered a considerable amount of controversy amid past sexual assault allegations made against the producer by Kesha. Perry, 39, pictured in April in LA

The feedback online was pointed toward both Perry and Dr. Luke, 50, who last year settled a defamation lawsuit with Kesha, 37, after she claimed in a 2014 lawsuit that he had sexually and physically abused her

Kesha, whose full name is Kesha Rose Sebert, tweeted 'lol' in the wake of news Perry and Dr. Luke would be collaborating.

A number of followers speculated on the meaning of Kesha's 'lol' tweet Monday, with one speculating that 'she's laughing at katy and her new song,' while another asked, 'Is this Katy shade?'

Other people were more pointed toward Perry's professional decision to collaborate with Dr. Luke.

'Itll never be a "Womans World" bc people like Katy Perry continue to support and uplift abusers in the industry like Dr. Luke,' one user said.

Another added, 'Im actually in shock how so many Katy Perry fans are defending her with this Dr. Luke thing its ok to hold your favorite artist accountable btw.'

One user said that Perry had been calculating in the move, as she 'waited for the whole court process to end before calling him again.'

One user said they 'wont be listening,' while another said, 'Some people make music with integrity, while others just care about having a number 1.'

The fallout from the allegations and long-running legal battle with Kesha led artist Doja Cat in December 2021 to declare that she would not collaborate with him moving forward.

Kesha, whose full name is Kesha Rose Sebert, tweeted 'lol' in the wake of news Perry and Dr. Luke would be collaborating

A number of Kesha's followers speculated on the meaning of her 'lol' tweet Monday

Others were more pointed toward Perry's professional decision to collaborate with Dr. Luke

'I dont think I need to work with him again,' Doja Cat told Rolling Stone. I dont think I need to work with him in the future. I know that.'

The Santa Barbara, California native recently released a clip on TikTok previewing her upcoming track Woman's World, which is set to be released July 11.

Perry this past February said she was departing the series American Idol after seven seasons to put her attention toward her career as a solo artist.

Kesha and Dr. Luke announced they had settled their long-running legal battle in June of 2023.

Kesha said in a statement at the conclusion of the proceedings, 'Only God knows what happened that night;' while Dr. Luke said he was 'absolutely certain that nothing happened' and that he 'never drugged or assaulted her.'

Perry was one of a number of notable names who submit testimony or a sworn statement in the case, a group that included Lady Gaga, Pink, Kelly Clarkson, Avril Lavigne and Adam Levine, according to the AP.

Dailymail.com has reached out to reps for Perry for comment on the story.
Heidi Klum's daughter Leni wowed in a colorful bikini during a family getaway to Sardinia, Italy.

The rising model, 20, looked incredible as she frolicked along the beach in her skimpy two-piece during a day at the beach with her boyfriend Aris Rachevsky, her mother, 51, and stepfather Tom Kaulitz, 34.

Leni and her boyfriend put on an affectionate display as they wrapped their arms around one another by the water.

As per usual, the model was the picture of style with her hair swept up into a messy bun, her eyes shielded with edgy sunglasses, and a beaded necklace accessorizing the look.

Her boyfriend sported blue swimming trunks, a gold pendant necklace, and had classic iPhone earbuds hanging from a single ear.

Heidi Klum's daughter Leni wowed in a colorful bikini during a family getaway to Sardinia, Italy on Tuesday

The couple basked in the sunshine upon oceanfront boulders, and Aris appeared to be taking a few snaps of his girlfriend as she sat on the rocks.

Leni is the daughter of runway icon Heidi and her ex, Italian businessman Flavio Briatore.

She has been dating Aris for around three years.

Aris is the son of Los Angeles talent agent Rhea Rachevsky, according to W magazine.

Leni has embarked on a modeling career over the past few years. She made her debut in 2020, when she appeared alongside her mother on the cover of Vogue Germany at the age of 16.

She has since appeared in promotional campaigns for various brands, including Dior Beauty, Fila and Intimissi, among others.

The fashion industry personality's mother previously spoke to People and voiced her approval of her child's career choice.

Heidi told the media outlet that 'I'm very proud of my daughter and her modeling' during her sit-down with the publication.

The media figure spoke about her first modeling gig during an interview with People, where she discussed her introduction to the fashion world.

The rising model, 20, looked incredible as she frolicked along the beach in her skimpy two-piece during a day at the beach with her boyfriend Aris Rachevsky, her mother, stepfather Tom Kaulitz

They wrapped their arms around one another as they enjoyed the fresh ocean breeze

Leni looked trendy as usual with her hair pulled up into a bun and a pair of sunglasses shielding her eyes

Leni is the daughter of runway icon Heidi and her ex, Italian businessman Flavio Briatore

She took a seat on the oceanfront boulders

They climbed along the rocks

Her boyfriend appeared to be taking several snaps of her

Heidi and her husband Tom Kaulitz were also on the beach

'I've always gone to work with my mom and thought, "This looks so fun. She looks so happy while she's working,"' she said.

Leni then spoke about her making her modeling debut on the cover of Vogue Germany with her mother.

'It was just such a good day. I wasn't nervous at all. I was just so excited,' she recalled.

The social media personality also expressed that she was happy to have her mother with her at the time.

'My mom and I are just completely comfortable around each other and we were dancing around the whole day,' she said.
Rapper Remy Ma's son, Jayson Scott, was arrested on Tuesday for the murder of a man in Queens that occurred in June of 2021.

Scott, 23, was charged with first-degree murder, second-degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon, and reckless endangerment for allegedly shooting 47-year-old Darius Guillebeaux following a June 7 argument.

Scott was charged alongside 22-year-old Richard Swygert, who is also facing a murder charge.

Guillebeaux was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his head and chest on June 7, 2021 just before 1pm.

The NYPD says he was then taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Remy Ma (right) with her son Jayson Scott, 23, who was arrested for the murder of Darius Guillebeaux in 2021

Darius Guillebeaux, 47, was found with fatal gunshot wounds to his head and chest on June 7, 2021 - he was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead

The victim had previously been indicted by the New York attorney general as part of a significant drug operation. The investigation, which was called 'Operation Heat Wave,' led to 54 arrests for the alleged trafficking of heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone in upstate New York.

An arraignment is expected to occur in Queens County court on Wednesday.

Scott's mother, Remy Ma, is a rapper from the Bronx who has been signed with Fat Joe for years.

She used to perform with his group Terror Squad, before releasing the solo album 'There's Something About Remy' in 2006.

She's been nominated for four Grammy Awards, and has appeared across high-profile Hip-Hop platforms, including appearances on BET and VH1.

Remy Ma's son Jayson Scott was arrested this week on first degree murder charges for a 2021 killing

Ma, 44, has herself spent time in prison for assault and weapons charges. She is currently married to the rapped Papoose (pictured left) with whom she also has a child

Ma, 44, whose real name is Reminisce Kioni Mackie, has herself been convicted of crimes that include assault and illegal weapons possession. The convictions were preceded by a 2007 shooting in a Manhattan deli.

She subsequently spent more than half-a-decade in prison.

Currently, Ma is married to Papoose - also a rapper - with whom she had a child in 2018.

Ma has yet to comment publicly on her son's arrest.
Amid geopolitical tensions, Modis engagements at the G7 reflect Indias commitment to democratic principles and its positioning on the world stage

In less than a week of assuming office as the Prime Minister for the largest democracy in the world, Mr Modi, is back where he excels. He was in Italy this week, meeting the leaders from the powerful group of nations also known as the G7. On the sidelines were several bilateral meetings with leaders of African, Arab nations, besides several clear messages to the primarily American and European groups leaders.

This was PM Modis first trip abroad, after assuming office for a third time ( a remarkable feat in itself) , where nearly 670 million voters , patiently waited in queues , under an extremely harsh summer sun, over a period of nearly two months , to choose the leader of the largest democracy. PM Modi and his party, despite, setting really ambitious expectations , could not manage a majority by itself and is now dependent on a bunch of pre poll alliance political parties , to lead the National Democratic Alliance Government. This assumes significance at a time when several parts of Europe, not to mention US are going their own set of democratic churns. The US goes to poll end of the year and voices on either side of the aisle , are getting harsher and louder. Similarly the elections to the European Parliament, has thrown a resurgence of far right parties , which is likely to have an impact on the geo political dynamics for a long time. What Mr Modi may be comforted by, is the fact that he may not need to look around for carefully worded diplomatic Statements, while explaining the State of Indian democracy to the western nations. In the past few years, several questions have been raised across the western nations and in US regarding the health of the Indian democracy, its report card on minority rights, religious freedom, existence of press etc.

The near majority verdict, by the Indian electorate, with ample scope of checks and balances to keep the party with highest seats under leash, a robust opposition presence in the parliament would be clear talk point for PM and his set of diplomats to set out a gold standard for democracy, when engaging with several nations. This becomes even more robust, given Indias unblemished record of being a largely democratic nation ,with a huge diverse population, in a neighbourhood, where there are several non democratic regimes, not to forget the second largest economy in the world China.

Mr Modi , with his nearly three decades of experience as head of the State and nation, is not new to diplomacy and in several interviews , leading up to the general elections, has articulated his target of enhancing Indias global image.

The grand spectacle around G20 (not to forget back room diplomatic negotiations to arrive at a joint Statement), several high level State visits, a bunch of rescue operations carried out for citizens and neighbours from war torn areas, supply of emergency medicines during Covid, are all pointers towards the focus the Prime Ministers Office attaches on global reputational management. PMs first visit in his third term to meet the G7 leaders, is a reassurance of continuity, as well as scoping out newer engagement roadmaps with existing and potential new allies.

Mr Modis visit to Italy comes at a time when the Ukraine war is unrelenting and despite severe reluctance , there seems to be chinks in the united European approach towards the aggressor Russia . Many of them, would have , similar concerns regarding Israels war on terror , which has refused to die down in months. It may be recalled that both Israel and Russia are close allies of India and India has so far walked a tightrope when commenting both of these volatile situations.

The dynamics of the past relationship , while building deeper relations with recent allies such as US are likely to be a sensitive diplomatic trope. It is no wonder , that PM Modi has picked up S Jaishankar, a seasoned diplomat as the External Affairs minister for a second term, to retain the continuity and foreign policy focus achieved during his last term. The evolving geo political landscape and Indias role in global affairs would continue to be tested and chiselled in days to come.

(The writer is a special correspondent with The Pioneer; views are personal)
The Non-Aligned Movement must rejuvenate its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and resist the subtle encroachments of neo-colonialism

British Prime Minister Winston Churchil was quoted as saying : Those who forget history and do not learn from it are condemned to repeat it. Churchills remark coming as it did from excerpts of his 1948 speech delivered in House of Commons was purportedly made against his predecessor whose failure to re-equip the country with requisite arms and ammunition made second world war ineluctable.

On one hand, he cast aspersions on the dark side of colonialism. Paradoxically on the other, he, the great liberator of Europe, opined that colonialism should have continued in Asia and Africa in the wake of winning second world war..

The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) which India manned as a founding member in 1955, was established in the aftermath of the Second World War, ostensibly with a view to safeguard the countrys sovereignty, integrity from the evil designs of colonialists. As is well known, during 50s and later a sizeable number of countries were unshackled from the chain of colonialism. They joined NAM en bloc ; and soon the organisation became a force to be reckoned with and played a pivotal role as a mouthpiece for freedom of its members in the world besieged by the Cold War. With diplomatic sleight of hand, its most vocal member-countries introduced in its organisational charter the neutralist policy to be followed by other member-countries. Under the diplomatic scheme of things, member-countries would resist temptations and allurements offered either by capitalist West or the communist East to make them their allies. Instead in the quagmire unleashed by two superpowers, the organisation opted the middle path and stood tall as third formidable forum.

As a matter of fact, nothing illustrates the fact of NAM being a power broker more explicitly than the swing votes at the UN courted and shared by the east and west bloc. It provided succour to erstwhile have-not countries. Proof of pudding is in eating. The fact that most of the countries in the world refused to kowtow to either bloc spoke volumes about its sustenance as an independent entity. All this notwithstanding, Churchill was seemingly opinionated in his views about countries including India that they might have failed to learn from history. Without a powerful deterrent force against colonialism, possibilities for it to resurface again could not be ruled out. It might metamorphose into different forms in sync with different age.

Undeniably, after the collapse of Cold War, NAMs relevance was on decline. Many factors which constituted early and undisputed principles of the Movement were blown to smithereens. A case in point: Economic Self-reliance. In the charter of Movement, Self-reliance acquired an ideological role as bulwark against economic aggression perpetrated by multinationals and monopolistic commercial, financial and industrial companies. Conflicting nature of Statements emanating from member-countries and incidents of trading charges amongst them on diplomatically impertinent issues led to strengthen the belief that the organisation had digressed from its chosen path and its future seemed bleak. .

Today it goes without saying that the war of attrition against colonialism was far from over during the post-war period. What could not be pre-empted by NAM to happen was the rising graph of neo-colonialism presence in the countries ; and its presence manifested itself by controlling countries through money, debt and media. Colonialism was replaced by neo colonialism - the control of countries though independent in name through many means, but namely through the media, money and debt. Herein, NAMs purpose remained unfulfilled.

In the context of Britain, King Charles III, while on a visit to Kenya, rendered his profound apologies for unleashing reigns of dictatorial oppression by his many predecessors within the colonised countries is a significant historical Statement. Now the United Kingdoms diplomatic intentions are clear. It seeks to enter into partnerships with countries based on motto of mutual respect. A free trade deal between the United Kingdom and India likely to be implemented in New Year may be cited as a case in point. That is slated to pave the way for bringing together the two countries as equals.

But France, once regarded as Britains close competitor with respect to setting up colonial hegemony in countries has not expressed such feelings of remorse over its past deeds. On the contrary, they have the audacity to run their fiefdom of neo-colonialism with alacrity.

As a matter of fact, France is running its writ in so-called independent countries of West and central Africa by controlling two currencies, the west and central African francs. Notably the two currencies are used by 14 African countries. Frances diktat is : these countries must deposit 50 percent of their foreign assets in the French Treasury. Obviously Frances intention to maintain economic hegemony over them is loud and clear. These countries have been bearing the brunt of Frances disdainful economic activities for decades after colonialism was considered to have ended. France behaved obsequiously with these countries for its own advantages.

Desperation of these nationswho are only independent in name and not in realtycould be gauged by the fact that in the past twelve months almost all countries in French-speaking Africa have asked French military, diplomats and businessmen to leave their lands for good.

More or less France is engaged in the same agonising activities against the countries in other parts of the world where France has daringly disallowed any further independence.

For instance, in 2021 the French territory of New Caledonia in the South Pacific faced the diabolical designs of France as the last of three independence referenda was deliberately thwarted by security pressure. The island of Corsica in the Mediterranean witnessed the murder of a freedom fighter which eventually culminated into island-wide riots leaving 76 policemen injured in its wake.

Paradoxically France has even furthered its neo-colonial interests in countries which were never part of its erstwhile empire. In the last two years France has thwarted plans for a peace process in the south Caucasus, ostensibly to please Armenia with whom it has entered into deal of arms sales. French diplomats have publicly reprimanded Azerbaizan, Armenias neighbour. Not only this, but also those diplomats instigated the million-strong Armenian diasporas in France to pressurise lawmakers in the French National Assembly to pass laws against Azerbaijan ; also they left no stone unturned in maligning the country in French media.

Whether to say unlikely coincidence or no coincidence at all, Azerbaijan is now at the helm of NAM as its chairperson. After assuming office of chairperson, Azerbaijan had vowed to win back a quarter of the territory of its country known as Nagorno-Karabakh which was illegally occupied by Armenian neo-colonialists for three decades.

In a 44-day war against Armenia in 2020 and later a 24-hour military operation against it in 2023, Azerbaijan finally got back its occupied territories. The fact of Azerbaijan winning back its occupied territories from Armenia did not go down well with France. It reflected in Frances action of using its power initially and unabashedly to undermine European Union-led peace negotiations from within; it sent senior French politicians - including the Mayor of Paris - to Nagorno-Karabakh before its liberation to praise Armenian separatist leaders. In sheer violation of international law related to war, France did not think twice before allowing its own citizens of Armenian descent to fight in the 2020 conflict without penalty.

There are no two opinions about the fact that in order to impede such attempts of geopolitical manipulation, NAM was set up. Azerbaijans leadership has resuscitated the group which is evident from international media in far off Australia confirming and writing to vouch for it: There is life in the Non-Aligned Movement Yet.

In January 2024, Uganda will take the Chairmanship baton from Azerbaijan. To Ugandas utter discomfiture; it is also shackled with tentacles of neo-colonialist powers who have asked this traditionalist country to abrogate a law on child protection.

The inherent motive of neo-colonialist powers is to widely spread and teach modern western social mores in Ugandan schools. The Ugandans have out rightly renounced this socially and culturally demeaning directive. It is also for India to stand with Ugandaindependent and fellow NAMs memberand repudiate the unwarranted interference in the Ugandan education system.

With NAM rejuvenating in a new avataar(incarnation), it is high time for all its members alongwith its co-founder India to get their acts together and set up a cohesive group with a view to fight against the act of usurping the sovereignty and wherewithals of countries by neo-colonialists belonging to both western and eastern bloc.

If not intervened by NAM members now and left unchecked, the ever-burgeoning presence would get the world poorer, unsafe and susceptible to conflicts. Therefore Churchills advice to learn from history has not lost relevance in these modern times.

(The author is a columnist, views are personal)
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for maintaining "silence" on the NEET exam issue and asserted that his party is committed to strongly raising the voice of the youth from the streets to the Parliament for ensuring strong policies against paper leaks.

The former Congress president said the arrests made in Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana clearly show that there has been organised corruption in the examination in a planned manner and added these BJP-ruled states have become the "epicentre" of paper leaks.

"Narendra Modi, as usual, is maintaining silence on the tampering with the future of more than 24 lakh students in the NEET examination," Gandhi said in a social media post in Hindi.

"The arrests made in Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana clearly show that there has been organised corruption in the examination in a planned manner and these BJP ruled states have become the epicentre of paper leak," he claimed.

In the manifesto, the Congress had guaranteed to secure the future of the youth by making strict laws against paper leaks.

"While fulfilling the responsibility of the opposition, we are committed to formulate such tough policies by strongly raising the voice of the youth from the streets to the Parliament and putting pressure on the government," he said.

Rahul Gandhi's remarks came after the Supreme Court on Tuesday said even if there was "0.001 per cent negligence" on the part of anyone in the conduct of the NEET-UG 2024 examination, it should be thoroughly dealt with.

Observing that students have to labour hard while preparing for these examinations, the apex court said the litigation pertaining to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate)-2024 examination ought not be treated as adversarial.

"Even if there is 0.001 per cent negligence on the part of anyone, it should be thoroughly dealt with," a vacation bench of Justices Vikram Nath and SVN Bhatti told the advocates appearing for the Centre and the National Testing Agency (NTA). It conducts the all India pre-medical entrance test.The bench was hearing two separate petitions raising grievances, including on grace marks given to the students in the examination held on May 5.
In its first Cabinet meeting after assuming the third consecutive term, the Modi Government 3.0 on Wednesday raised the minimum support price (MSP) for paddy by 5.35 per cent to Rs 2,300 per quintal for the 2024-25 kharif marketing season.

The MSP for 'common' grade paddy has been raised Rs 117 to Rs 2,300 per quintal, while for the 'A' grade variety it has been hiked to Rs 2,320 per quintal for the upcoming Kharif season. The highest absolute increase in MSP over the previous year has been recommended for oilseeds and pulses viz nigerseed (Rs 983/- per quintal) followed by sesamum (Rs 632/- per quintal) and tur/arhar (Rs 550/- per quintal).

The Union Cabinet has increased the MSP for all 14 crops, including paddy, ragi, bajra, jowar, maize and cotton which will have a financial implication of Rs two lakh crore for the Government and entail gain of Rs 35,000 crore to farmers over the previous season. Announcing the MSP increase, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the Cabinet has approved the minimum support prices for 14 Kharif (summer) crops based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). The MSP for Jowar has been increased by Rs 191 per quintal from Rs 3,180 to Rs 3,371 per quintal. The MSP for Bajra has been increased to 125 per quintal from Rs 2,500 to Rs 2,625 per quintal; Ragi by 444 from Rs 3,846 to Rs 4,290 per quintal and Maize by Rs 135 from Rs 2,090 to Rs 2,225 per quintal.

The MSP for tur/arhar also increased by Rs 550 from Rs 7,000 to 7,550 per quintal; Moong by 124 from Rs 8,558 per quintal to Rs 8,682 per quintal; Urad by Rs 450 from Rs 6,950 to Rs 7,400; Groundnut by Rs 406 from Rs 6,377 to 6,783 per quintal and Sunflower Seed by Rs 520 from Rs 6,760 to Rs 7,280 per quintal.

The hike in paddy support price comes despite the Government sitting on surplus rice stocks, but it is significant ahead of elections in states like Haryana, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhi.

The increase in MSP for Kharif crops for marketing season 2024-25 is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19 announcement of fixing the MSP at a level of at least 1.5 times of the all-India weighted average cost of production, The expected margin to farmers over their cost of production are estimated to be highest in case of bajra (77per cent) followed by tur (59 per cent), maize (54 per cent) and urad (52 per cent). For rest of the crops, margin to farmers over their cost of production is estimated to be at 50 per cent, the Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement. Vaishnaw said the Government had a clear policy decision taken in the 2018 Union Budget that MSP should be at least 1.5 times the cost of production, and this principle was followed in the latest MSP hike. The cost was scientifically calculated by CACP, he added.

The Food Corporation of India currently holds a record stockpile of around 53.4 million tonnes of rice, which is four times the required buffer for July 1 and sufficient to meet demand under welfare schemes for one year without any fresh procurement.

The MSP was a major issue for farmers protests which impacted the seats in Punjab, Western UP and Haryana in the Lok Sabha polls.

Minimum Support Price (MSP) is the lowest rate at which government procurement agencies buy crops from farmers. It shields farmers from market fluctuations, offering stability and income security. MSP is crucial for ensuring fair prices for farmers and is determined by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), considering factors like production costs, market trends, and demand-supply dynamics. After the CACP submits its recommendations, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by the Prime Minister of India, makes the final decision on MSP levels.

Despite lower rainfall of about 20 per cent across the country since the start of the monsoon season on June 1, weather conditions are now favourable for further advancement of the rains, according to the meteorological department.

As per the 3rd Advance Estimates of production for 2023-24, total foodgrain production in the country is estimated at 3288.6 Lakhs Metric Ton (LMT), and oilseeds production is touching 395.9 LMT. During 2023-24, kharif production of rice, pulses, oilseeds and nutri-cereals/Shree Anna and cotton is estimated to be 1143.7 LMT, 68.6 LMT, 241.2 LMT, 130.3 LMT and 325.2 Lakh bales, respectively.

The Union Cabinet has also approved a Rs 2,869.65 crore proposal for the expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport at Varanasi. Addressing media after the cabinet meeting, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the development of the airport at Varanasi, which is the Lok Sabha constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, includes the construction of new terminal building, extension of apron and runway, parallel taxi track and other allied works. The proposal of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), with an estimated financial outgo of Rs 2,869.65 crore, is aimed at enhancing the passenger handling capacity of the airport to 9.9 million passengers per annum (MPPA) from the existing 3.9 MPPA. The Union Cabinet also approved the Development of an all-Weather Greenfield deepdraft Major Port at Vadhavan in Maharashtra. On completion, the port which will be built at a cost of Rs 76,200 crore, will be one of the top 10 ports in the world.
Daughter of a Rajya Sabha member was arrested by the Chennai Police on Tuesday morning in connection with the death of a painter who was sleeping on the pavement. On Monday night Beeda Madhuri (33), daughter of Rajya Sabha MP and former Kavali (Nellore) MLA Beeda Masthan Rao, was driving her BMW car accompanied by her friend and ran over Satish who was lying on the pavement. Masthan Rao belongs to YSR Congress.

According to police, the deceased was under the influence of alcohol. Maduri arranged for shifting the grievously injured Satish to hospital and drove away. But he succumbed to injuries late Monday night and this gave rise to massive protest by the residents of the locality, most of them belonging to the working class.

Maduri on being informed about the death of Satish, surrendered before the traffic investigation wing of Chennai Police and she was charged under Section 304 (A) od the Indian Penal Code , for causing death by negligence.

Section 304 (A) carries with of punishment of imprisonment for two years or fine or both and is a cognisable and bailable offence which could be triable by the magistrate of the first class. She was let off on bail.

Though the locals alleged that she was under the influence of alcohol, the police refuted the same and said there was nothing to suggest that the lady had consumed alcohol.

But they were not forthcoming when asked whether her blood sample has been collected and sent for testing.
Heatwave continues to take its toll on the population as more than 16 vulnerable people died in the last 24 hours due to heat-related illness, including heatstroke in the Delhi-NCR in the grip of intense weather for the past few days. As per the data available from various hospitals in the city, many are battling with the situation.

In the last 24 hours, one patient each died at Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital while five patients died at other various Government hospitals, including Lok Nayak Hospital (LNJP), according to the Government hospitals officials.

At the Centre-run RML Hospital, the authorities received 22 patients in the last two days. There have been five deaths and 12 to 13 patients are on ventilator support. To give reprieve to such patients, the hospital has set up a first-of-its-kind heatstroke unit.

At the Safdarjung Hospital, there have been a total of 60 heat-stroke cases, including 42 who have been admitted. The hospital has reported six casualties, including a 60-year-old woman and a 50-year-old man who died on Tuesday.

According to LNJP Hospital authorities, four patients have died due to suspected heatstroke in the last two days. "There were two deaths on Tuesday due to suspected heat stroke and two casualties on Wednesday. There are 16 heat stroke patients admitted," said a hospital official.

One of the victims, aged around 39, died during treatment on June 15. He was a motor mechanic who collapsed while working at his shop in Janakpuri. He was brought in with high-grade fever.

Its not only the national Capital but various pockets across the Northwest and Central India are registering some of the highest recorded temperatures in years, causing mortalities. In the adjoining region of Noida, at least 14 people reportedly died in the last 24 hours due to suspected heatstroke, according to the health department. However, post-mortem reports are awaited to ascertain the exact cause of death, said the officials.

The maximum temperature recorded in the national Capital crossed 45 degrees as Pitampura recorded the highest temperature in the city of 45.1 degrees Celsius, six notches above the normal. Safdarjung, considered as a parameter for the whole of Delhi, recorded 43.6 degrees Celsius as the maximum temperature, 4.8 degrees above the normal.

Although the maximum temperatures have come down in the city, the minimum temperature, settled at 35.2 degrees today, reduces the difference between the highest and the lowest temperatures and makes the weather more uncomfortable for the Delhiites. Since June 1, Delhi has been reeling under heat wave conditions and since the past few days, witnessing warm nights. The feel like temperature hovered around 50 degrees celsius for three consecutive days as the city recorded heat index at 49.1 degrees celsius.

The day and night temperatures in the region have been consistently coming closer, even as various pockets of the countrys heat affected regions including the national capital which has recorded the highest temperatures in 13 years.

This has prompted the Union Health Minister JP Nadda to issue an advisory to all the central Government hospitals to give priority to the treatment of those admitted due to the heat wave.

While reviewing the heatwave situation and preparedness of the central government hospitals on Wednesday, he directed officials to ensure that all hospitals are prepared to provide the best healthcare to the affected and set up heatstroke units. Last month, Delhi Health minister Saurabh Bharadwaj had announced that the Delhi government-run hospitals will reserve two beds each for heatstroke patients while five beds will be reserved at the LNJP Hospital.

Bharadwaj on Wednesday also conducted an emergency meeting with heads of different hospitals regarding heat stroke patients. Given that homeless people are directly exposed to the scorching sun for prolonged periods of time, he has asked the Delhi Police beat officers and patrolling teams to help in shifting homeless people, lying under open sky, to shelter homes.

Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora will be communicated to ask their patrolling teams to call Ambulances in case their team spot destitute is running high fever or sick, he said while directing hospitals to scale up the beds for patients of heat related illnesses. Fresh advisory will be advertised in radio and newspapers, he said.

Delhi and its adjoining areas may see interim relief from the persistent heat due to an ongoing western disturbance in the next 24 to 48 hours.
The post poll violence continued in Bengal unabated leaving two BJP workers dead in the past 24 hours, sources said. Gaur Hari Maity of Arjun Nagar in Bhagwanpur village under Bhupatinagar Police Station was beaten to death by alleged TMC goons, his family members said.

"Local TMC men had come looking for Shashanka Maity the son of Gaur Hari but getting the wind of it he fled the home when they could not find him they abducted his father Gaur Hari and took him to an unknown destination where he was beaten to death," locals said. The area falls under Kanthi Lok Sabha constituency from where BJP candidate Dibyendu Adhikari won in the recently concluded general elections.

"The deceased was taken to the hospital where he was declared 'brought dead'," a district level police officer said adding the "police have started investigation.

He said they will wait for the postmortem report to come to any conclusion  all the angles are being investigated."

Speaking to the media Bengal Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari said that post-poll violence had become a regular affair in the State. "This is not one off case  they killed another of our men at Cooch Behar  where the TMC goons attacked the house of one of our workers Sanjay Burman  who in a bid save himself by speeding off with his motorcycle  met with an accident and died  this was an accident induced by the TMC men and we will demand justice against it."

Early this month Hafizul Sheikh a BJP worker was allegedly murdered at Krishnagar in Nadia district. He had joined the BJP from CPI(M) and had worked for the saffron party. After the elections he was shot dead and beheaded. His assailants carried away his severed head as a trophy.

The Wednesday's incident came in the midst of a BJP fact finding team led by former Tripura Chief Minister visiting Bengal. Reacting to the post poll violence former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad who was also a part of the team said what was happening in the name of post poll violence should stop adding "the BJP workers are being raped, their houses looted and they are being murdered  Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who is a woman herself should feel ashamed of this."

Adhikari said the BJP would continue to fight against the BJP adding Governor CB Ananda Bose should visit the affected areas and take of the situation himself.

The incident comes a day after the Union Home Ministry informed the Calcutta High Court that it has no reservation if the deployment of central forces in Bengal was extended in the light of alleged post-poll violence. The Court on Tuesday directed the Centre to assess the situation and submit before it the facts on June 21 the next date of hearing. The BJP has been asking for extension of the deployment of central forces in Bengal.

In separate PILs filed by Adhikari and BJP advocate Priyanka Tibrewal before the Division Bench of Justice Harish Tandon it was alleged that the TMC goons were attacking the members of the opposition particularly the BJP in the continued post poll violence. They demanded the delaying the withdrawal of central forces from Bengal.
In course of the security forces' drive to sanitise Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Srinagar visit for this year's International Yoga Day function on June 21, two terrorists were gunned down in the Hadipora area of PD Sopore in North Kashmir's Baramulla district. Two security personnel, including one Army jawan, also received injuries during the operation.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have declared Srinagar city as a temporary "red zone", and banned the operation of drones ahead of PM's visit. This will be Modi's first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after being sworn in as the Prime Minister for the third time.

Till the time of filing of this report, the identity of the slain terrorists could not be ascertained as the security forces were still conducting searches in the area and were yet to retrieve the bodies of the slain terrorists from the encounter site.

Chinar Corps, in a post on X, stated that the operation was conducted on receipt of specific information about the presence of terrorists in the area. "On specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a Joint operation was launched by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police

on Wednesday in the Hadipora area of PD Sopore; two terrorists were eliminated; the operation is still in progress."

Meanwhile, in a significant development, the Jammu and Kashmir police have arrested one person for harbouring terrorists behind the terror attack on a pilgrim bus in Reasi on June 9.

Addressing a press conference in Reasi SSP Mohita Sharma said, "A breakthrough has been achieved in the case of the terrorist attack on the pilgrim bus which was coming from Shiv Khori on 9th June. In this case, one accomplish of the Reasi terrorists identified as Hakam, 45, has been arrested by the J&K Police at Reasi.

The arrested man has been guilty of harboring terrorists multiple times. Besides providing food and shelter, the said person also acted as a guide helping the terrorists reach the spot of the incident. The arrested person is a prized catch as he helped the terrorists in execution of attacks. Further interrogation and investigation of the case is going on"

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Prime Minister Modi will participate in the 'Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K' event at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar at around 6 pm on June 20.

Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects in J&K. He will also launch the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP), the statement said.

The prime minister will participate in the 10th International Day of Yoga event at SKICC in Srinagar at around 6: 30 am on June 21. He will address the gathering on the occasion and take part in the yoga session thereafter, it said.

This year's Yoga Day event underscores yoga's profound impact on young minds and bodies. The celebration aims to unite thousands in the practice of yoga, promoting health and wellness on a global scale.

More than 7,000 people from different walks of life will join Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday to celebrate the 10th International Yoga Day on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said it is an honour for the entire Kashmir valley to have the prime minister here on International Yoga Day.

"It's an honour for the whole Valley to have Prime Minister Narendra Modi here on International Yoga Day. He will perform Yoga on the banks of Dal Lake with more than 7,000 people who will participate in the event on June 21," Sinha said.

In Doda, a joint team of the Jammu & Kashmir Police and 4 Rashtriya Rifles successfully apprehended the civilian responsible for snatching a service weapon of a Special Police Officer (SPO) within 24 hours of the incident.

The police said that the civilian was caught in a forest area near the Bhalla area of Doda district.

Senior superintendent of police, Doda, Javed Iqbal, said a civilian identified as Muhammad Rafi had been arrested near his village.

Mohammad Rafi had fled away with an AK-47 rifle of Safar Hussain, a Special Police Officer, when the duo was on their way to Trown area in Bhalla on Tuesday.

When they reached Pul Doda, Safar de-boarded the vehicle to buy some essentials, while Rafi fled away with the weapon.
Chinese premier arrives in Malaysia for official visit

Xinhua) 08:02, June 19, 2024

Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, June 18, 2024. Li arrived here Tuesday for an official visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived here Tuesday for an official visit to Malaysia, the third and last leg of his eight-day tour that has taken him to New Zealand and Australia.

Li said upon arrival that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, China-Malaysia relations have maintained sound development, as strategic mutual trust has been continuously consolidated, cultural and people-to-people exchanges have become ever closer, and high-quality Belt and Road cooperation has yielded fruitful results, which have brought tangible benefits to the two peoples and contributed to regional peace and development.

Li noted that last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reached an important consensus on jointly building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, opening a new chapter in China-Malaysia relations.

China is willing to work hand in hand with Malaysia, taking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties as a new starting point to further strengthen the alignment of development strategies, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, enhance civilization exchanges and mutual learning, and continuously push forward the building of the China-Malaysia community with a shared future, so as to make greater contributions to peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the region and worldwide, Li said.

Li arrived in Kuala Lumpur after concluding an official visit to Australia and holding the ninth China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

During his stay in Malaysia, Li will have talks with Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar and Prime Minister Anwar, and attend an event commemorating the 50th anniversary.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, June 18, 2024. Li arrived here Tuesday for an official visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
US support for the Philippines is just psychological comfort

13:31, June 19, 2024 By Global Times ( Global Times

Behind the scenes. Illustration: Liu Rui/GT

On Monday, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller commented on the incident that the Philippine vessels illegally entered the waters off China's Ren'ai Jiao (Ren'ai Reef) and deliberately collided with Chinese vessels, smearing China's policy positions in the South China Sea, sensationalizing maritime frictions, and claiming that the US "stands with its ally the Philippines." Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell went even further. He on Tuesday reiterated the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty in a conversation with Philippine Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro and accused China of interfering with the Philippines' "freedom of navigation."

Washington is distorting the truth. The facts of this conflict are clear, and the China Coast Guard (CCG) has responded: the Philippines broke its promise by sending a supply ship and two inflatable boats to illegally enter the waters adjacent to the Ren'ai Jiao of China's Nansha Islands on Monday, in an attempt to deliver supplies to its illegally grounded warship. What's worse, the Philippine supply ship deliberately and dangerously approached and collided with normally sailing Chinese vessels. CCG took control measures in accordance with the law, including issuing warnings, intercepting, boarding and conducting inspections, and forcibly driving them away, actions which were reasonable, lawful, professional and standardized.

The provocation from the Philippines is a repetition of old tricks, and the statement from the US State Department and its officials is nothing but a cliche. The US' stance pretends that it is still the "world's police" and the master of the Asia-Pacific region. In fact, the unrest in the South China Sea and the Philippine provocation in Ren'ai Jiao cannot be separated from the incitement and support of the US. As an external force, the US manipulates camp confrontations for geopolitical purposes and advances military deployments and actions in the South China Sea, which is the root cause of the escalation of disputes and conflicts in the region.

On Monday, the US Pacific Fleet announced that the US, Canada, Japan and the Philippines conducted a two-day maritime cooperative activity in "the Philippines' exclusive economic zone" from Sunday to Monday. The US Pacific Fleet said the maritime cooperation activity aimed to "uphold freedom of navigation and overflight, reaffirming the four nations' commitment to bolstering regional security and stability."

Chen Xiangmiao, director of the World Navy Research Center at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, told the Global Times that the US supports the Philippines in continuously conducting bilateral or multilateral exercises in the South China Sea, with the actual purpose of creating an illusion of high unity between the international community and the US and attempting to isolate China. Meanwhile, the escalation of military cooperation between the US and the Philippines may deepen the Philippines' dependence on US military aid. The Philippines seems to get the backing of the US, but in reality, the Philippines may further fall into the trap of US military aid and become an "ATM" for the US.

With the support of the US, the Philippines' policy toward China has completely shifted toward Washington, supporting its strategic confrontation with China in the South China Sea. However, the Philippines' intention to confront China is unrealistic. Firmly binding itself to the anti-China bandwagon of the US only makes the Philippines insecure. In the South China Sea issue, although the US frequently mentions the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty in an attempt to threaten China, the US will not take risks to provoke a war in the South China Sea for the interests of the Philippines.

Ding Duo, deputy director of the Institute of Maritime Law and Policy at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, believes that the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty is just a few pages of paper that brings some psychological comfort to the Philippines. Considering the current international situation and the political background of the upcoming US presidential election, Washington cannot help but worry about "accidental conflict" in the South China Sea. Chen stated that the US' main goal is to see tensions escalate between China and its neighboring countries, hoping to create chaos around China to contain China's growing influence.

In the South China Sea issue, the US plays the role of playwright, director, and absolute protagonist, while the Philippines only plays a subordinate role, lacking real discourse power, initiative, and dignity. The biggest tragedy for a pawn is to think that it can control the situation.

Recently, Reuters revealed that the US military launched a campaign to smear Chinese vaccines in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing the Philippines from obtaining safe and reliable vaccines. The Philippines should wake up. If this strong "wake-up call" still cannot make it realize how selfish and self-serving the US is, the Philippines will only find itself in a desperate situation, and pay a higher price.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Wednesday held an emergency meeting with the heads of hospitals and directed them to scale up beds for patients of heat-related illnesses.

During the meeting, it was decided that Delhi Police beat officers and patrolling teams will be requested help in shifting homeless to shelter homes in case they are found on a footpath.

Bharadwaj said in a post on X, "Chaired an emergency meeting with heads of all major hospitals regarding Heat stroke patients. Delhi Police beat officers/ patrolling teams will be requested help in shifting homeless to shelter homes in case they are lying under open sky. Department is sending communication to Delhi Police Commissioner to ask their patrolling teams to call Ambulances in case their teams spot destitute is running high fever or sick."

"Hospitals to scale up the beds for patients of heat related illnesses. Circular issued to Hospitals & CATS Ambulance service. Fresh advisory to be advertised in Radio and Newspapers," the minister added.

In a communication to all hospitals, the Health Department said importance of early management of heat affected patients was informed to all the hospitals in the meeting.

"Due to prolong heat wave this year, all the MS/MDs/CDMOs/DGHS are directed to ensure that emergency remain operational 24 hours of the day in the hospitals and a senior doctor must always remain present in the emergency to handle such type of patients. As already directed, all the necessary medicines required for treatment of such patients also must remain in the hospitals," read the circular.

The circular directed medical superintendents and medical directors to personally ensure the immediate admission and treatment of heat stroke patients, so as to ensure that maximum lives could be saved.

"All the CDMOs are also directed to ensure that even if such a patient comes to the dispensaries, the immediate treatment is given to the patient and he is shifted to the nearest hospital in ambulance. CATS is also directed to ensure that the calls for such admission of patients are attended immediately and the patients are transferred to the nearest hospitals.

All the ambulances of the CATS Department must remain on high alert during the day as well as night and some of the ambulances be parked near the most affected area and near shelter homes," the circular said.

Last month, Bharadwaj had announced that the Delhi government-run hospitals will reserve two beds each for heatstroke patients while five beds will be reserved at the LNJP Hospital.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday asserted that the central government is working towards making the country's higher education system more advanced and research-oriented.

Modi, while inaugurating the new Nalanda University campus here, called upon students to always remain curious and courageous.

Nalanda is a symbol of India's academic heritage and vibrant cultural exchange. It is not just a renaissance of India's past, but the heritage of many countries are linked to this place, he said.

Our government is working towards making the country's higher education system more advanced and research-oriented. I am confident that our youth will provide leadership to the entire world in the future, Modi said.

The prime minister said he wants India to become a global hub for knowledge and education.

On an average, one university has come up in the country every week in the last 10 years, Modi added.

Before inaugurating the new campus, the PM visited the Nalanda Mahavihara', a UNESCO world heritage site located close to the varsity.

The educational institute was established through the Nalanda University Act in 2010 and it started functioning in 2014.

The ancient Nalanda University, which existed since the fifth century, attracted students from all over the world. It flourished for 800 years before being destroyed by invaders in the 12th century, according to experts.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a partnership that includes a vow of mutual aid if either country is attacked, during a Pyongyang summit on Wednesday that came as both face escalating standoffs with the west.

It was not clear what kind of assistance the deal, described as a comprehensive strategic partnership, would call for.

Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years comes amid growing concerns over an arms arrangement in which the country provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile program.

Speaking after a signing ceremony, Putin said that security and international issues took up a large part of the talks with Kim, according to Russian state media. He was also quoted to say that Russia would not rule out developing military-technical cooperation with North Korea under the deal.

Kim was quoted as saying that the agreement was of a peaceful and defensive nature. I have no doubt it will become a driving force accelerating the creation of a new multipolar world," he was quoted to say.

Russia and North Korea also signed agreements on cooperation in the fields of healthcare, medical education, and science, Russian state media reported, citing the Kremlin's website.

Putin was met upon his nighttime arrival by Kim, who shook his hands, hugged him twice and rode with him from the airport in a limousine in a huge motorcade that rolled through the capital's brightly illuminated streets, where buildings were decorated with giant Russian flags and portraits of Putin.

After spending the rest of the night at a state guest house, Putin attended a lavish welcoming ceremony at the city's main square, where he and Kim saluted an honor guard and walked across a red carpet. Kim then introduced key members of his leadership including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and the leader's powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong.

The square was filled with what appeared to be tens of thousands of spectators, including children holding balloons and people wearing coordinated t-shirts in the red, white and blue of the Russian and North Korean flags. Huge crowds lined up on the streets to greet Putin's motorcade, chanting Welcome Putin and waving flowers and North Korean and Russian flags.

As the talks began, Putin thanked Kim for North Korea's support for his war in Ukraine, part of what he said was a fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the U.S. And its satellites against the Russian Federation.

He said the two planned to sign a new fundamental document (that) will form the basis of our ties for the long term," hailing ties that he traced back to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of World War II, and Moscow's support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

Kim said Moscow and Pyongyang's fiery friendship is now even closer than during Soviet times, and promised full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity.

Kim has used similar language in the past, consistently saying North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russia's interests and blaming the crisis on the U.S.-led West's hegemonic policy. It wasn't immediately clear what that support might look like.

North Korea is under heavy U.N. Security Council sanctions over its weapons program, while Russia also faces sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

U.S. And South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple U.N. Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Kim's continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking U.S.-led efforts to impose fresh U.N. Sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of U.N. Sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine.

Putin's foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters in Pyongyang that the two leaders exchanged gifts after the talks. Putin presented Kim with a Russian-made Aurus limo and other gifts, including a tea set and a naval officer's dagger. Ushakov said that Kim's presents to Putin included artworks depicting the Russian leader.

Russia media said earlier that Kim will host a reception, and Putin is expected to leave Wednesday evening for Vietnam.

In Washington, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Putin's visit to North Korea illustrates how Russia tries, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

The North may also seek to increase labor exports to Russia and other illicit activities to gain foreign currency in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Korea's main spy agency. There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and further promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kim's weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the United States, South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle.

The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.
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The Aontu leader Peadar Toibin TD and Deputy Leader and Gemma Brolly, representative for East Derry, attended the Irelands Future discussion in Belfast on Saturday.

Speaking after the event, Ms Brolly said: It was fantastic to see such huge attendance at last weeks discussion. There were two political panels and Deputy Toibin spoke on the first one. The Protestant Perspectives panel provided perhaps best takeaway where mention was made of a revenge mission  this is not the case in Aontu  we believe in pluralism and in the vision of Wolfetone and the United Irishmen. We also heard interesting points on inclusion, on how people with disabilities must be invited to the table, how Arts & culture must also be up there in priorities of a United Ireland.

Ms Brolly continued: The practical negative implications of the border on cancer treatment was explored. Aontu means Unity  one of our pillars from inception  we are realistic  Westminster is not working for us - we work to unite the people  but work must be done now. We cannot approach Irish Unity in the same way a student might cram before an exam  we need to do the work now. Peadar Toibin said that the border is like a wall of a thousand bricks, and we must start chipping away at those bricks one by one. Respectful conversations about unity like the one in Belfast on Saturday must continue, and they provide enormous hope for the future, with the level of maturity on display from all sides.
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Two men wanted in Northern Ireland to face charges relating to the murder of an RUC officer nearly 50 years will argue that a request for their extradition is an abuse of process, the High Court heard on Wednesday.

John Edward McNicholl (72) of Newmills, Letterkenny, County Donegal and Seamus Christopher O'Kane (73) of Scalestown, Dunshaughlin, Co Meath are wanted in the UK.

They face charges arising from an investigation into the murder of 25-year-old Constable Robert John McPherson in Co Derry on July 26, 1975 and the attempted murder of a second constable.

Mr McNicholl is charged with murdering Constable McPherson and attempted murder while Mr O'Kane is charged with possession of firearms, including an RUC-issued firearm taken during the ambush on Constable McPherson.

At the High Court this morning Mark Lynam SC, for Mr McNicholl, said his client has been in Ireland since 2003 but for reasons unknown, the UK made no effort to seek his surrender until now. Mr Lynam said he will be arguing that this is a "significant abuse of process".

John Berry BL, for Mr O'Kane, said he will also be making an objection on grounds of an abuse of process. Mr Lynam asked for time to put together all points of objection. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath adjourned the matter until July 10 for an update. A hearing will take place some time after that.

Independent TD for Donegal Thomas Pringle was present in court this morning. Deputy Pringle put up an independent surety on behalf of Mr McNicholl at a previous court hearing.

Warrants for the arrest of both men were issued following a request by the Northern Ireland authorities earlier this year as part of an ongoing investigation into Constable McPherson's murder.

Constable McPherson was from Leck, outside Coleraine in Co Derry. He was shot dead in an INLA ambush in Dungiven Main Street around midday. He was hit by a single shot when he and a colleague were ambushed as they investigated a report of a suspect car. His fellow officer was hit multiple times but survived.

Both Mr McNicholl and Mr O'Kane face four charges relating to the possession of explosives and firearms on February 16, 1976 at Garvagh, Co Derry. The court heard that an RUC-issued firearm retrieved at that location had been taken during the ambush on Constable McPherson.

The extradition warrant relating to Mr O'Kane states that on May 5, 1976 he and others escaped from custody at the Maze prison in Northern Ireland prior to a decision being made to prosecute him for the four offences.

At a previous hearing of the High Court Detective Garda Tony Keane of the Garda Extradition Unit said that following a search of the premises at Garvagh in 1976, the RUC recovered two electric detonators, two improvised pressure mat switches, two Walther pistols, one Browning pistol, a 0.22 rifle, a Remington shotgun and 104 rounds of ammunition.

Detective Keane said the warrant issued by the Northern Irish authorities states that Mr O'Kane and two other males were found hiding in an upstairs bedroom in the property and were arrested.

The warrant continues that Mr O'Kane was interviewed on February 17 1976, where he made a full admission to possessing the explosive substances, firearms and ammunition recovered from the property at Brockaghboy in Garvagh.

Both men are on bail.
HIGHLIGHTS HP launches Snapdragon X Elite-powered EliteBook Ultra and OmniBook X in India for Rs 1.69 lakh and Rs 1.39 lakh, respectively. Both variants feature 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD and a 14-inch 2.2k IPS display. OmniBook X gets a touchscreen while the commercial grade EliteBook comes with enterprise level security.

Qualcomm Snapdragon powered laptops, launched globally earlier, are beginning to officially arrive in the country. And HP India is amongst the first in-line to offer its latest Snapdragon powered Co-pilot+ laptops in the region to the consumers. HP announced the pre-booking availability of its next-generation AI PCs in India: the HP EliteBook Ultra, priced at Rs 1,69,934, and the HP OmniBook X, priced at Rs 1,39,999.

Sometime ago, HP rebranded its consumer and commercial PC portfolios to simplify its product offerings. Consumer PCs now feature the prefix Omni, and commercial PCs feature the prelude Elite, followed by their product categories.

At the same time HP has phased out previous brands like Pavilion, Envy, and Spectre, but they remain available for a while, possibly until the stock lasts. Consumer laptops will be called OmniBook, all-in-one desktops OmniStudio, and traditional desktops OmniDesk. Commercial laptops will be named EliteBook, all-in-one desktops EliteStudio, and traditional desktops EliteDesk.

Both, the HP EliteBook Ultra and the OmniBook X, are built on the latest ARM architecture and powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor. And frankly, this underpinning architecture is the main shtick on which every major laptop OEM, including HP, and Microsoft along with Qualcomm are banking their future plans on. These laptops are designed to give them all an equal footing against Apple MacBooks, which have gained a significant advantage in computing performance and efficiency ever since Cupertino started using their own ARM chips in 2020.

Also read: Game changer: Qualcomm powered enhanced Microsoft CoPilot+ AI PCs are here!

HP EliteBook Ultra, OmniBook X India Launch  Specs, Features, Price In India

The specific chip powering these laptops is the Snapdragon X-Elites base variant, X1E-78-100, featuring 12 cores and a 3.4GHz clock speed. It features a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of performing 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS). Both laptops also have 16 GB of onboard LPDDR5x RAM, though OmniBook X has a slightly higher transfer rate of 8448 MT/s compared to 8400 MT/s in the other. Both devices come with 1 TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSDs for storage.

In terms of display, both laptops have a 14-inch, 2.2K (2240 x 1400) IPS screen with 300 nits brightness and 100% sRGB coverage. However, the OmniBook Xs display is multitouch-enabled with edge-to-edge glass, Corning Gorilla Glass NBT, Low Blue Light, 16:10 aspect ratio, and an 87.81% screen-to-body ratio. In contrast, the second laptop has an anti-glare, non-touchscreen display.

For connectivity, the first laptop, the HP OmniBook X, supports Qualcomm FastConnect 7800 Wi-Fi 7 (22) and Bluetooth 5.4. In contrast, the EliteBook Ultra supports Qualcomm FastConnect 6900 Wi-Fi 6E (22) and Bluetooth 5.2.

The port configurations differ slightly: the HP OmniBook X, has a USB Type-A 10Gbps port (HP Sleep and Charge), a headphone/microphone combo, a USB Type-C 10Gbps port, and a USB Type-C 40Gbps port. The EliteBook Ultra has a similar setup but with a USB Type-A 5Gbps port instead of 10Gbps.

Both laptops have a 5 MP IR camera and use the 65 W USB Type-C adapter. Their batteries are 3-cell, 59Wh units supporting fast charging to 50% in 30 minutes.

Audio and input features are similar, with both laptops having dual speakers with Poly Studio and integrated dual array microphones. They also have HP Imagepad pointing devices and full-size, backlit keyboards. A number of OEMs are also claiming insanely high battery life with their new Qualcomm powered laptops and HP is no different as it promises 26 hours of battery life. These next-gen AI PCs feature the HP AI Companion and the Poly Camera Pro with AI features like Spotlight and Auto Framing.

These AI features are available in addition to Microsoft Co-pilot+, which brings a whole different set of AI capabilities natively to the laptop, including image generation, AI chat, and more. Also, the EliteBook Ultra features Wolf Pro Security NGAV and Microsoft Secured-Core protection. These are enterprise level features restricted to commercial PCs only.

Lastly, in terms of dimensions and weight, both laptops are almost identical, with minor differences in height. The HP OmniBook Xs height is 1.43 cm (front) and 1.44 cm (rear), while the EliteBook Ultras height is 0.84 cm (front) and 1.12 cm (rear). Both laptops start at 1.34 kg in weight.
Pulxion paves easy and quick way to assess stroke risk

Cerebrovascular Accidents (CVAs), or stroke, are the top cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide, posing significant threats to human health.

Unfortunately, many individuals only become aware of their condition after experiencing a stroke, missing the optimal window for early intervention and treatment.

Carotid Artery Stenosis (CAS) has been identified as a crucial factor contributing to strokes, serving as an early indicator. Therefore, early detection and treatment of carotid artery stenosis are vital measures for stroke prevention.

However, traditional methods for detecting carotid artery stenosis are limited by expensive equipment, heavy reliance on specialized medical personnel for operation and interpretation, lengthy testing procedures, and high costs, preventing widespread early detection of risk for stroke.

Through collaboration with a team of professionals from National Taiwan University, Pulxion Medical Technology has developed a non-invasive AI imaging technology for rapid screening of the risk of carotid artery stenosis, PulStroke, which breaks through traditional testing limitations.

With rapidity, standardization, and high cost-effectiveness features, the technology can significantly reduce the need for medical manpower and resources. It is poised to enhance the accessibility of early stroke screening greatly.

The limitations of traditional methods make early stroke detection challenging

Pulxion was founded by Professor Hao-Ming Hsiao from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at National Taiwan University. The co-founder is Dr. Hsien-Li Kao, a Professor in the Medicine School at the National Taiwan University and Chairman of the Cardiology Division at the National Taiwan University Hospital. Their long-term collaboration started in 2014, dedicated to addressing numerous challenges in early stroke detection, and they officially established Pulxion in 2020.

According to Professor Hsiao, the main reason for choosing the carotid artery as the topic of their research is that there are over 12 million new cases of stroke worldwide every year, which means one new case occurs every 3 seconds. It is not only a threat to human health but also significantly impacts healthcare and societal costs. There's an estimation that by 2030, the global economic burden of stroke, including post-care, will exceed one trillion US dollars.

Carotid artery stenosis serves as a critical early indicator of stroke. Existing common diagnostic methods for carotid artery stenosis include carotid artery ultrasound, Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA), and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA). However, due to issues such as expensive equipment and complex operations, early screening is challenging to implement widely.

The carotid artery is the closest blood vessel to the body's surface, making it easier to observe the pulsation characteristics. Therefore, Pulxion starts with carotid artery stenosis assessment and utilizes non-invasive AI imaging technology to evaluate the risk of stroke.

Unique Screening Method: Rapid, Accurate, and Easy-to-Use

By analyzing subtle pulsation variations on the subject's skin surface, Pulxion's PulStroke can differentiate between the pulsation patterns of normal individuals and those with carotid artery stenosis. The device projects visible light onto the subject's neck and then performs the video motion analysis with AI algorithms to highlight skin surface pulsations.

Comparing these pulsations with features associated with carotid artery stenosis, a risk assessment report is generated to evaluate the subject's risk of carotid artery stenosis. The entire process is completed within 1 minute, with reports available within 5 minutes.

PulStroke possesses several key advantages. First, compared to traditional methods like carotid artery ultrasound, CTA, and MRA, the technology is non-invasive, offering a non-invasive and radiation-free screening approach for subjects.

Second, it's portable and user-friendly, with a compact size and no need for specialized operators, making it suitable for placement in small to medium-sized clinics, health examination centers, and potentially homecare and community service in the future. Third, utilizing AI algorithms and big data analysis supported by PulStroke, clinical trials have demonstrated an accuracy of nearly 90% when compared to ultrasound.

Regarding the business model, Joy Chen, CEO of Pulxion, said that PulStroke includes both hardware device and cloud platform. The hardware device can be set up in medical facilities with buyout or leasing options. The analysis reports generated on the cloud platform are billed separately and also come with several options for users.

For marketing, Pulxion will first work with health examination centers and large hospitals, with plans to participate in government disease prevention programs. The next step is to enter the community clinics with the ultimate vision of making the technology accessible to the general public and integrating it into home healthcare and nationwide health services to increase stroke screening rates and ultimately reduce stroke incidence.

Pulxion has completed its angel round funding and plans to sign an MOU with internationally renowned medical device companies this year. Pulxion also plans to file the medical device regulatory submission to the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) this year and is preparing to apply for the Breakthrough Devices Program of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Chen said that Taiwan will be the first launch market for Pulxion, and the company will subsequently begin preparations for regulatory submission in the United States.

PulStroke enables rapid and accurate assessment of stroke risk. The company immediately attracted attention from the medical industry upon its release. Professor Hsiao believes the key driving force behind the successful commercialization of Pulxion technology is the Startup Value Creation Program promoted by the National Science and Technology Council. As he mentioned, the program activates the value of academic research by providing resources, regulatory ease, and policy support to allow professors to play significant roles in startups. It also encourages various forms of innovation matchmaking.

Pulxion has participated in the acceleration program of Mosaic Venture Lab  a TTA accelerator partner as well. The program not only organizes various activities to increase interaction opportunities with investors but also helps startups to expand their exposure. All the support for Pulxion has transformed into its competitiveness. The company will do its best to broaden the applications of its technology to other diseases, creating a healthy society in the future and fulfilling its vision of preventive medicine and home healthcare.

(Editor's note: The original article was published in TTA Magazine Issue 14. Read more startup stories in TTA Magazines.)

Pulxion PulStroke

Photo: Pulxion
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Former TSMC and UMC leadership unite to chart future semiconductor ecosystem

The Semi Impact Forum 2024 united investors, policymakers, and innovators from Taiwan and the UK in the semiconductor industry.

Held at the prestigious Royal Society on June 14 as part of the London Tech Week fringe event, the forum featured prominent Taiwanese figures such as Professor Konrad Young, former R&D Director at TSMC, and former UMC CEO Shih-Wei Sun. These experts shared their extensive experience and insights with the advisors and experts shaping the UK's Semiconductor Strategy, enabling an exchange between the leaders from both sides.

"Taiwan needs the world, just as the world needs Taiwan," says Representative Vincent Chin-Hsiang Yao of the Taipei Representative Office in the United Kingdom who opened the event with a speech.

"Semiconductors play a crucial role in international manufacturing and supply chains, driving technological breakthroughs in AI and other emerging technologies," Yao stated.

Yao highlighted Taiwan's leadership in the global semiconductor industry, anchored by three major science parks that serve as hubs for innovation, collaboration, and economic prosperity. He expressed Taiwan's readiness to collaborate with partners like the UK to drive future innovation and prosperity.

The wider landscape

On the morning panel, to give the UK audience less familiar with Taiwan's semiconductor landscape a better understanding, Konrad Young, the former TSMC R&D Director and now a professor at National Taiwan University split Taiwan's enabler platforms into three distinct parts to explain the ecosystem more succinctly.

"The first part consists of major companies such as TSMC and UMC, which are global leaders in the foundry sector," Young explained. "These companies are primarily business-oriented and ready to move to the next phase of production after Series B funding. Generally, such projects are difficult for the government or other entities to influence."

The second part, he illustrated involves more mature technologies and the early phases of pilot production. "Taiwan has several companies engaged in compound foundry work, capable of undertaking various tasks and collaborating internationally with the UK."

The third part, according to Young, is less common globally. "This phase involves very early-stage, deep-seed research and academic activities. Taiwan is currently developing infrastructure to support this phase, aiming to facilitate smooth transitions from academic research to early validation and then to production."

TSMC and UMC: the two sides of the story

In addition to mapping out the present-day semiconductor ecosystem, Young provided insights into the early challenges and growth of TSMC. He compared TSMC's humble beginnings to those of UMC and other pure manufacturing companies in the late 1980s.

"In 1987, TSMC emerged from ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute), while UMC had already been established for seven years," Young explained. "The intent was not to create a direct competitor to UMC. Instead, TSMC ventured into an area that no one else was interested in, largely due to a lack of confidence in the potential of a pure foundry model."

Young recalled how, despite having basic three-micron technology and suffering financial losses for nearly five years, TSMC gradually built trust with its customers. "Our early technology was rudimentary, but because no one else was doing it, we started to attract clients. TSMC's commitment to integrity and innovationour slogan ICIC, standing for Integrity, Innovation, Commitment, and Customer Trustwas crucial."

Initially, TSMC operated as a pure manufacturing company, licensing technology from other companies such as Philips and manufacturing chips for clients such as Intel and AMD. "For the first 10 years, we didn't develop our technology. Instead, we focused on perfecting the manufacturing process and building trust with our customers," Young noted.

The turning point came when TSMC realized the need to develop its R&D capabilities. "When I joined TSMC, our technology lagged behind that of UMC. We decided to build an R&D team to catch up," Young said. "Despite the challenging environment, our persistent efforts and collaboration with experts from the US helped us overcome these obstacles."

Young also shared an antidote to illustrate the benefits of combining the best of both worlds from R&D and fabrication that took place under his tenure.

"When I returned to Taiwan, I aimed to create a 'smart R&D system' that combined the efficiency of manufacturing with the flexibility of research. This approach allowed us to rapidly iterate and innovate, making TSMC's R&D process unique and highly effective."

On the same panel as Young was UMC CEO Shih-Wei Sun, his former competitor who gave his side of the story during the early stages of these companies.

"UMC followed a different model as the first spin-off from ITRI," Sun explained. "Initially, UMC was an Integrated Device Manufacturer (IDM) with its products. We produced microprocessors and collaborated with companies like MediaTek, now a US$15-$20 billion company, and Novatek, the global leader in driver ICs."

Sun detailed UMC's transition from a product company to a pure foundry model. "We spun off our product companies, leaving the fabrication facilities to focus on manufacturing. This shift allowed us to specialize in wafer fabrication, progressing from six-inch to twelve-inch wafers."

However, Sun acknowledged challenges in UMC's technological advancements. "Our process technology faced setbacks at the 0.13-micron node. Unlike TSMC, which developed this technology in-house, UMC partnered with IBM in a joint venture that ultimately failed, nearly bringing UMC down. We had to recover from that."

Despite these challenges, UMC remained resilient. "Today, UMC is a US$10 billion company with a 30% gross margin and a 20% net profit, demonstrating our profitability and stability."

Sun also discussed the capital-intensive nature of the semiconductor industry. "The investment required is enormous, especially during the first depreciation cycle of five to ten years. It's a long and tough cycle, but once you get through it, the returns can be substantial."

He concluded by addressing the geopolitical landscape's impact on the semiconductor industry. "With regions worldwide aiming to develop their semiconductor manufacturing, it's crucial to be cautious and prepared for the long-term investment required. However, if managed well, the rewards can be significant."

The future

On the same note when asked if the UK's current direction of more selective investment into semiconductors is the right one especially when compared to the large-scale financial injection of the US, Young suggests the UK shouldn't follow what the other main players are doing, especially when they are already strong. Instead, they should focus on unique opportunities."

Young argues investing in the early phase of technology development can leverage future growth. "In the 1980s, the US invested heavily in semiconductors, but a smaller, well-placed investment can also yield significant returns," he added.

Regarding the future of the semiconductor ecosystem, Young believes education and AI will be essential not only to upscale production but also to evolve the entire system.

Young praised Taiwan's semiconductor education and suggested it could serve as a model for other countries. He believes Taiwan's semiconductor training is among the world's best. With decades of experience, this expertise could be translated to different cultural contexts to help other nations.

However, despite his praise for Taiwanese semiconductor training, he believes the system needs to cultivate more future leaders rather than basic workers. Hence why after retirement he started teaching semiconductor courses at the National Taiwan University to spearhead these initiatives

He rations that Taiwan's low birth rate and aging population necessitate a shift towards more innovative production systems, "a no-man fab," he suggests.

Young says his vision includes developing automated manufacturing systems. "The traditional working model won't work in the future. By creating systems with minimal human intervention, we can overcome cultural and logistical challenges."

Regarding talent, Young says he also observed a significant communication gap between Generation Z and baby boomers, emphasizing the need to bridge this divide. He praised Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang as a perfect example of someone who can connect with both generations, citing an instance where Huang took 90-year-old Morris Chang to a night market for the first time. Young added, "We need to recruit individuals with diverse educational backgrounds to help this industry grow, beyond just traditional technical expertise."

Furthermore, he underscored the role of AI in future fabrication processes. He believes AI should be a helper, enhancing human creativity and productivity.

"The production of semiconductors has matured so much from the physics to the working SOP, to the point that flow is now standard. So why do we need so many people working so hard just doing the tedious work when even the machine can do it?" Young questioned.

"You need to think, you need to design, you need to create," he says encouraging the next generation of talent.

When asked how he foresees the UK and Taiwan could help each other, Young sees the two tech powerhouses as a natural fit that complements each other's strengths and weaknesses. Taiwan can contribute to manufacturing and initial investment, while the UK excels in innovation.

"Your innovation will help us, bring us to the world. We work together to achieve high-value, high-profit, that's my recommendation," concluded Young to the British audience.

The event is supported by organizations such as Taiwan's National Applied Research Laboratories (NAR Labs), the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), and the British Office Taipei, the event also saw participation from UK groups including techUK and Tech London Advocates & Global Tech Advocates.

Credit: DIGITIMES Asia
Optical processors: UK startup Lumai revolutionizes AI compute stack for next-level performance

Lumai, a spin out from the University of Oxford, was founded by a team with expertise in optics over two years ago, aiming to develop a new type of AI processor.

During Computex 2024, Lumai joined the UK semiconductor delegation to Taiwan, attracting the attention of local semiconductor supply chain companies and venture capital firms.

The company's focus is on addressing the performance bottleneck caused by hardware limitations in AI. By leveraging optics, Lumai performs the core AI operations outside traditional silicon architecture.

"While we use digital silicon chips for control and data movement, the actual processing occurs in beams of light in free space, offering scalability and energy efficiency advantages," explained James Spall, co-founder of Lumai. "Optics allow us to achieve remarkable energy efficiency at large scales, making our approach unique, innovative, and disruptive in the field."

The data center market is vast, particularly focusing on large-scale compute for enterprises where thousands of processors are required. Optics also offers efficient interconnection between processors, reflecting a significant industry trend toward utilizing optics for processing and interconnect.

Energy efficiency is a critical concern in data centers, as the power needed to operate devices results in heat generation that must be dealt with, further increasing energy consumption. Enhancing energy efficiency by an order of magnitude can address these performance limitations and energy consumption challenges.

"Scaling up is not a concern for us, as we utilize standard components widely used in various industries. For instance, we incorporate transceivers and displays commonly found in communication and imaging sectors, respectively," said Spall.

Those components are manufactured at scale and are prevalent in data centers, making them readily available. By leveraging already established components and adapting them for their system, the company can significantly shorten the time required to transition from demonstrators to prototypes and eventually to production. This efficient process allows for quicker progress and promising outcomes.

Connecting with partners

"Our purpose here in Taipei is to establish connections and partnerships across various aspects of our technology. While we continue to utilize digital silicon and work on chip development, Taiwan offers significant potential for collaboration in these areas due to its expertise," said Spall. "With expertise in analog electronics and components within the optics industry, Taiwan presents clear synergies for our system."

Taiwan's core strength lies in manufacturing at scale, aligning well with Lumai's ongoing efforts to improve metrics such as speed and energy efficiency in the design process. Lumai is seeking partnerships with renowned organizations for their expertise in chip design, packaging, and manufacturing within the silicon industry, as well as the communications sector. These potential partners specialize in producing components like transceivers, optical fibers, and displays used in the company's system, making them suitable collaborators.

In modern AI algorithms, the fundamental operations involve multiplying and adding numbers on a massive scale. Traditional hardware like GPUs excels at parallel processing for these mathematical operations.

Lumai's approach involves physically using light to perform these math operations, avoiding the need to convert everything into binary strings for manipulation. By utilizing light beams to perform calculations in parallel, Lumai achieves efficiency through analog, physical computation. The optical processor will be integrated into the data center servers, along with the GPU, CPU, and NPU, according to Spall.

Potential of setting up in Taipei

While the company is currently based in Oxford, leveraging the talent and skills in the UK around hubs like Bristol and Cambridge, they acknowledge the value of establishing collaborations globally. Exploring the possibility of setting up locations like Taipei to facilitate closer cooperation with potential partners is a consideration. The company is eager to engage in face-to-face interactions to foster collaborations, recognizing the value of personal meetings over virtual means like Zoom for building meaningful partnerships and accelerating their processes.

Lumai is currently fundraising to support its growth trajectory for the next couple of years. This marks its second fundraising round, with initial backing from venture capitalists upon its spin-out from the University of Oxford over two years ago.

Companies specializing in optoelectronics, specifically modulators and receivers, have expressed interest in Lumai's innovative approach. "We aim to play a pivotal role in the compute stack, enhancing hardware performance essential for advancing AI capabilities. Our optical processors complement traditional CPUs and GPUs, offering compatibility with existing hardware and algorithms in data centers," said Spall.

While Lumai focuses on matrix multiplication with optics as a core operation, it caters to a diverse range of AI models, particularly in AI inference. The company's niche lies in providing efficient and scalable solutions for inference tasks within the expanding AI market. As the demand for AI algorithms grows across various sectors, the volume of inference workloads is poised to increase significantly. While training costs often take center stage, the importance of efficient inference cannot be understated, said Spall.
CATL breaks ground on Beijing site to supply BAIC, Xiaomi, Li Auto

CATL, the world's largest EV battery maker, started building another production site in China on June 18.

The company will construct a joint plant with the Beijing Automotive Group (BAIC), Beijing Energy Holding, and Xiaomi in Beijing. The plant will reportedly begin production in 2026.

According to CATL's announcement, the new factory will supply BAIC, Xiaomi, Li Auto, and other customers located in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei. The project is expected to attract more companies in the upstream and downstream supply chain to the region.

CATL also said it would work with the Beijing City government to electrify local transportation and improve charging and battery-swapping infrastructure.

The battery maker did not disclose when it will commence production at the Beijing site. China-based Xinhua News Agency reported that the manufacturing base will be a two-phase project and is slated to begin production in 2026.

The factory is held by the Beijing Shidai Power Battery. According to enterprise information provider Tianyancha, CATL owns 51% of the company. BAIC holds a 39% stake, while Xiaomi EV and Beijing Energy Holding possess a 5% stake, respectively.

The Beijing battery plant will be critical to Xiaomi, which launched its first EV, SU7, at the end of March. According to China-based Gasgoo, building joint plants with customers has become CATL's typical strategy to deepen ties with automakers. The battery company has partnered with the FAW Group, Dongfeng Motor, Changan Automobile, SAIC, GAC, and Geely in China.

According to South Korea-based SNE Research, CATL reached 81.4GWh of EV battery usage in the first four months of 2024. The installation remained the world's highest and represented a 30% growth from 2023. BYD was ranked second with 33.2GWh, while LG Energy Solution came third with 28GWh.
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I reference my thought on the article published on June 18, 2024, regarding payments of monies supposedly destined for the University of Eswatini into a ministrys employee personal account. I pen my thoughts flabbergasted on how this is allowed to happen. It brings to mind questions regarding internal controls within government ministries and the subvented entities.

One cannot help but ponder, if this is an isolated incident within government departments or if this is a common occurrence across all departments. I speculate that if one official was able to do this and get away with it, then probably someone else, also gets away with similar fraud, just the nation has not caught wind of the news. I will argue that this shows leakages within the governments finance management requiring stringent financial tests and controls. Also, I will argue that this has to be a syndicated approach requiring some collusion with officers in the university.

Controls

This occurrence shines light on weak controls within government entities and also speaks to issues of poor revenue assurance on the side of the university. Financial prudence requires that not one person should be responsible for the procurement, purchase and payment of an invoice to reduce the risk of internal fraud. Ideally, the person making a payment should only just receive a payment requisition with all invoices and accounts to be paid having been verified by independent officers. Given my limited knowledge of the government payment system, these controls ought to be in place. It would, therefore, be impossible for an individual acting alone to pull such a heist and get away with it. The segregation of power within the financial machinery ought to have detected this anomaly before payment. Furthermore, changing an account within the payment system requires multiple authorisations and confirmation with the vendor. Ideally, a request ought to have been submitted in writing by the university requesting the change of account. It is against this web of bewildered thoughts that this seems to be a syndicate and not just one person acting alone.



Someone at the university must have confirmed these account details. It is on this thinking that I call on the office of the auditor general (AG) to institute a further inquiry into this matter, there seems to be a lot that has not yet been revealed. I can stake my bottom dollar, that there is no one that one person can execute this fraud without co-conspirators. If the investigation reveals that one person was able to pull it off single-handedly, then the AGs office will have to recommend improved internal controls within the ministry.

Revenue assurance

The second component that one would also have to consider in this case is revenue assurance on the side of the university. This is based completely on the assumption that one person within the ministry was able to divert so much money into their personal account. The question that begs an answer is where was the revenue assurance team at the university. Someone is tasked with following up on invoices and making sure that payments have been received accordingly. One wonders what if anything was done from the side of the university to follow up on the monies and invoices. If the invoices remain unpaid, someone within the finance department in the university must have made follow ups and at some point, proofs of payment by the ministry would have been produced and these would have shown a long time ago that monies had been diverted into personal account.



This would have been visible post a follow-up on the non-payment of the first invoice. Furthermore, for a letter or request to divert funds a letter must have been drafted by an official (senior finance official) within the university of Eswatini alerting the ministry of the account changes. To this end, I call for the University Council to institute a forensic inquiry into the revenue and expense accounts of the university. The newly-appointed task team to investigate the financial situation of the university must also dig into these anomalies. This is not to speculate or cast aspersions into the capabilities of officers within the university and within the ministry. However, common sense, logic on financial prudence dictates that this ought to be a syndicated incidence. One should not shy away from the possibility that we live in the age of photoshop and deep fakes produced by artificial intelligence, hence the call for a full blow investigation to exonerate the control systems within both entities.

Impunity

We have as a nation allowed corruption with impunity for a long time. This has to come to an end, we have allowed corruption to bring our health system to a halt, now the institution of high education is grinding to a halt because corrupt individuals seek to line their pockets at the expense of emaSwati, who desperately need to access higher education. To this end I call on the Head of Government, to heed the call to eradicate corruption as mandated in the speech from the throne. Heads must roll!
Four Louth schools alongside four schools from across Northern Ireland came together today, to mark their achievements in the Advance Manufacturing Pathways Schools Project  funded by the International Fund for Ireland, through their Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP).

The cross community, cross-border initiative is delivered by Belfast Unemployed Resource Centre (BURC) and Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) with the Education provider - FIT (Fastrack into Information Technology) and brings together eight schools from across Belfast, Drogheda, and Dundalk.

The IFIs Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP), which funds this project, is focused on embedding lasting relationships on a cross-border basis by supporting cooperation and innovation between groups and organisations North and South on projects that have a meaningful benefit for local communities.

During the event, several students were awarded prizes as part of the project challenge including for Best Design and Best Innovation with all schools receiving certificates for their participation.

The eight schools who took part include Bush Post Primary School Dundalk, Colaiste Chu Chulainn Dundalk, OFiaich College Dundalk, Scoil Ui Mhuiri in Dunleer, Belfast Boys Model School, Mercy College Belfast, St. Louises College Belfast and Dundonald High School,

Paddy Harte, IFI Chair attended the event and said,

This initiative demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration and partnerships. Working with industry experts we can deliver a project that offers practical support and guidance for young people, whilst continuing to deliver on a key objective of the IFIs Communities in Partnership Programme (CiPP)  embedding lasting relationships on a cross-border basis.

The uniqueness of this type of project is its dual focus of providing an important foundation for young people to develop important skills in advanced manufacturing, whilst offering the opportunity to develop important cross-border engagement between local communities.

Getting the opportunity to hear from students who have been taking part in the project over the last twelve months and about their experience of the initiative is what makes these projects worthwhile.

The project offered opportunities for more than 200 students to learn about developing career opportunities in advanced manufacturing, acquiring key skills which they can use in their future career development.

Participating in the project also offered teachers CPD Training, which was delivered by Queen's University Belfast, and provided students and teachers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with cutting edge technologies in their own School, in the AMTCE (Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre of Excellence) Dundalk, and Queen's University Belfast, Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) Belfast.
There are seventy-one fewer nurses than there should be at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Drogheda according to Louth Labour TD Ged Nash.

It comes as twenty-four people are waiting on trolleys in the hospital this morning after thirty-three people were waiting on both Monday and Tuesday this week.

Deputy Nash was speaking in the Dail yesterday where he asked Taoiseach Simon Harris when will the health service recruitment ban be lifted?

He said: It is affecting real people, especially the over-75s. It is June, yet, yesterday morning 33 people were on trolleys in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda.

That number, unfortunately, has repeated itself today. There are 43 in Cork today and 34 in Galway, which is unprecedented for June.

This is because these hospitals are not allowed to recruit the nurses who have actually been cleared to take up roles in hospitals such as Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.

There is a deficit of 71 whole-time equivalent nursing professionals in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. That is 71 fewer nurses than there should be. Management, the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation and SIPTU are firefighting to support patients and to support stricken staff.

Bernard Gloster, the head of the HSE, is in the media today talking up the possibility of the removal of the recruitment ban and saying that it will be lifted soon. When will the HSE recruitment ban be lifted?

In response the Taoiseach said:

We are having a meeting of the Cabinet committee on health in early July, I believe, and I look forward to seeing whether we can bring progress to that issue of the pay and numbers strategy there because discussions are ongoing between the HSE and the Department of Health.

However, there is broad agreement in relation to the pay and numbers strategy. The Minister has approved the allocation of the 2024 new development posts, along with the roll-out of safe staffing through the conversion of 418 agency staff. I can get specific figures in relation to the Deputy's local hospital.

Last week the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) called on management at Our Lady of Lourdes in Drogheda to take urgent action on hospital overcrowding.

INMO Industrial Relations Officer for Our Lady of Lourdes Maurice Sheehan said:

Our members in Our Lady of Lourdes are deeply concerned about the number of seriously ill patients who are ending up on trolleys throughout the hospital without an adequate number of nursing staff rostered to care safely for them.

Our members have raised this very urgent issue with their union and hospital management.

We know that large volumes of patients on trolleys for extended periods of time can have negative impacts on the long-term health outcomes of patients and also staff safety.

The issues in Our Lady of Lourdes are being compounded by the HSEs recruitment freeze, which is making it even more difficult for our members to be able to provide safe care.

The INMO is now calling on the hospital to take extraordinary measures in order to reduce the number of patients on trolleys.
A father of four has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison for attacking his ex-partner and her mother with a knife in the family home while two of his children slept.

The now 27-year-old man pleaded guilty to attempting to commit assault causing harm at an address in Foxrock on August 31, 2021, and again on September 5, 2021.

He also pleaded guilty to threatening to damage his former partners home, and threatening to kick a door in and smash it up contrary to a safety order on September 24, 2022.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that he had 15 previous convictions, including for assault.

Passing sentence, Judge Martina Baxter said that he had placed the mother of his two older children in fear, and that he had contravened a safety order. Another aggravating factor was that he had committed the latter offences while on bail.

The court heard that the first offence happened at half past midnight in the home that his two young children shared with his former partner. Her mother was also there, and he had swung a knife at her.

When gardai arrived, he had been aggressive and had to be restrained. He was arrested and released.

Less than a week later, her mother was again at the ground-floor apartment looking after the children, when she saw the defendant approach the balcony at 6.30am. He tried to open the door and was shouting abusive language at her.

The plastic patio furniture was thrown around and an ashtray was thrown at the window. The defendant was seen approaching his ex-partners car and was intoxicated when arrested around 9am.

A year later, when he threatened to kick the door in and smash the gaff, his ex-partner became so upset that she left the accommodation with her two young children. He was on bail at the time, one of the conditions being that he was to have no contact with her.

READ MORE FROM THE COURTS HERE

She went to her mothers address, but the calls continued, and she described him as being 'out of it'.

Their eight-year relationship had broken down due to his use of drugs and alcohol. She later obtained a safety order.

The court heard that the defendant was living with his mother at the time, his father having recently died of cancer. The court also heard that he has since met a new partner and now has two more children. He was recently diagnosed with ADHD.

Judge Baxter sentenced him to three and a half years in prison for the August 2021 attempted assault, and a consecutive three years for the September 2021 attempted assault.

She imposed two and a half years for the threats while on bail a year later to run consecutive to the first sentence imposed. She also handed down eight months for the threat contrary to the safety order. This was to be backdated to May of this year, giving a total sentence of six years and six months.

Judge Baxter then suspended the final 18 months on a number of conditions, including that he engage with the Men Overcoming Violent Emotions group.
Minister for Children and Integration Roderic O'Gorman has announced his bid to be the new leader of the Green Party.

The leadership contest for the Green Party is now underway, following Eamon Ryan's shock announcement on Tuesday, June 18, that he is stepping down as leader, and will not be contesting the next general election.

In an announcement in front of the Dail yesterday afternoon, Minister Ryan said he was "stepping down to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders."

This was followed by a further shock announcement from the Greens deputy leader, and Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin saying that she too would "step back" from her role.

So who's in the running now?

Roderic O'Gorman is the first to officially throw his hat in the ring for leader of the party.

The Dublin West TD announced his bid in a post on X this Wednesday morning, stating that the Green Party needs "someone with experience and commitment to move us forward".

Im announcing my candidacy for leadership of the Green Party/Comhaontas Glas.



I am running for leader, after 24 years of Green Party membership, to build a party that can win across this country, and deliver on our ambitions.



I'm asking for your support at: pic.twitter.com/qSWcTxFGVB  Roderic OGorman TD (@rodericogorman) June 19, 2024

"I am running for leader, after 24 years of Green Party membership, to build a party that can win across this country, and deliver on our ambitions," he said.

In the statement also shared on his website, Mr O'Gorman cited his experience in eight elections as "councillor, TD and minister", and promised party members he would commit to "deliver policies that make a positive impact in peoples lives", a united party", and "a leadership that always listens, always engages, and values the hard work and dedication of every constituency group."

Senator Pippa Hackett has also been tipped for the role, as has TD Joe O'Brien, but neither have officially announced they will run.

Speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland, TD Ossian Smyth endorsed Senator Hackett, who is also the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, as leader.

He ruled himself out of running for leader, but put himself forward as her potential deputy leader

"If she is willing to run, I would like to run alongside her as deputy leader," Mr Smyth said.

He said Minister Hackett is a beef and sheep farmer from Co Offaly and would ensure that the party is clearly relevant outside of Dublin.

Green Senator Pauline OReilly also endorsed her Seanad colleague on Virgin Medias Ireland AM show, saying it is important for the party to broaden its appeal outside Dublin.

All three previous leaders Trevor Sargent, John Gormley and Eamon Ryan have been TDs in Dublin constituencies.

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development Joe O'Brien, whos' from Cork but serves as TD for Dublin Finglas, has also been named as a possible candidate for the party leadership.

Under the Green Party constituition, any party member can contest the leadership if they have the support of 50 other party members, meaning in theory (but unlikely) the new party leader could be someone not serving in the Oireachtas.
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MHLOSHENI  Two people died and seven others were rushed to hospital when a kombi they were onboard was involved in an accident at Mhlosheni.

The kombi, servicing the Nhlangano-Hluthi route, was coming from Nhlangano town, heading towards Hluthi. It had eight passengers and the driver. The accident happened on a steep slope, at the last corner towards Mhloshenis main station. It was gathered that the driver lost control of the motor vehicle after its brakes became faulty, which resulted in it veering off the road and crashing against a rock next to the road. Motorists who were first on the scene called the police as they rushed to assist the passangers. It was gathered that rescuers had a tough time retrieving the passengers, who were trapped in the vehicle, as it had landed upside down. After the people were taken out of the vehicle, police searched the surrounding area for passengers who may have been thrown out of the vehicle when it overturned.

Injured

The driver was reportedly among those who were injured. This is the third accident to happen in a space of two weeks, involving public transport vehicles from Nhlangano town to different routes. About two weeks ago, a Quantum, which had 16 passengers was involved in an accident at Mehlabovu. The kombi serviced the Nhlangano-Manzini route. Sixteen people were rushed to hospital and most of them had fractures and open wounds.

Last Friday, a kombi servicing the Nhlangano-Mshololo route was involved in an accident at KaMjuda, with 16 passengers on board. The driver of the kombi was among those who were seriously injured as the kombi hit a tree stump, as well as a hill from the front. All 16 people were admitted to hospital. The accidents happened at a time when government vehicle examiners were around Nhlangano, inspecting public transport vehicles.

In an interview, Shiselweni Local Kombi Association Chairman, Thabani Nhleko, stated that they were shocked by the accidents. Nhleko said they were even thinking of hosting a prayer, as it seemed there was a dark cloud engulfing the transport business in the town.

Address

As of tomorrow (today), we will engage the drivers and owners in a meeting to be held after they knock off, where police will be present, to address the issues of the accidents, among other things, said Nhleko. He added that they felt the drivers needed to be lectured on what they were supposed to do in the event they experienced similar accidents in future. Deputy Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Assistant Superintendent Nosipho Mnguni, confirmed the Mhlosheni accident. She stated that one person died and eight were rushed to hospital. However, it was later gathered that another person had died.
'Touching the Greater Bay Area' China-UK cultural exchange program kicks off in Guangdong

13:59, June 19, 2024 By Zhao Tong ( People's Daily Online

Two British students, Yara Alamin (left) and Matt Smith, take photos with the Canton Tower, a landmark in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province, June, 17, 2024. (Photo provided to People's Daily Online)

"Touching the Greater Bay Area," a cultural exchange program co-launched by Guangdong Radio and Television and People's Daily Online (UK), has officially commenced in Guangzhou, the capital of south China's Guangdong Province.

The program will see 10 British university students visit Guangdong in batches to explore the Greater Bay Area's rich heritage and vibrant culture.

In the first group, Yara Alamin and Matt Smith from the University of London's School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) arrive in Guangzhou, where they are joined by Li Changyu, a student from Guangdong University of Foreign Studies. The three students embark on an immersive experience, exploring the diverse culinary traditions and folk customs that define the region.

Three students learn the painting skills of dragon boat culture in Foshan, south China's Guangdong Province, June 18, 2024. (Photo provided to People's Daily Online)

Three students learn how to make a dragon boat banquet in Foshan, south China's Guangdong Province, June 18, 2024. (Photo provided to People's Daily Online)

British student Matt Smith catches an eel at an aquatic products company in Foshan, south China's Guangdong Province, June 16, 2024. (Photo provided to People's Daily Online)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
MBABANE  Trade unions have refuted that they betrayed and ambushed government during the recent International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conference in Geneva.

Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA) Secretary General (SG) Mduduzi Gina said government was well aware that all unresolved workers issues were scheduled to be deliberated upon at the ILO conference for further discussions. The SG was responding to a statement made by the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezi, yesterday on the Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS 1) morning programme, Letishisako.

The minister was reporting back on what transpired during the ILO conference, where the country was among the 24 countries that were examined by the ILO Committee on Application of Standards for violation of Convection 87 of the ILO on freedom of association and assembly. The minister said the government team felt betrayed and ambushed by the local trade unions.

Stipulated

He said some of the issues that were resolved were expected to be concluded through stipulated routes. One of the issues Gina said, was that of the alleged tear gas that was thrown into a bus allegedly transporting workers at Nkoyoyo in 2021.At mediation, it was agreed that the issue should be referred to the Human Rights Commission to investigate what exactly transpired and who could be prosecuted in the event prosecution is necessary, he said. The SG said the federation concentrated on the unresolved issues. He added that there was no way that the federation could have control over those who were presiding during the conference.

He explained that for a country to be discussed, the committee of experts on ratified conventions and recommendations issued a report. Once that committee states the words we note with deep concern, that then results in the International Employers Organisation and International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) sitting and identifying, where the committee is making such notes or concern or deep concerns, he said.

Determines

Once they agreed, he said that country would then be on the list. He said the report that determined the examination was normally issued around January to December of the previous year. In this case, the report was issued last December. Gina said the preliminary list is then issued two to three months before the June conference. In 2024, the preliminary list was issued in April after checking progress with either that countrys employer or employee organisations. In light of this process, Gina said he would not agree that there was an ambush. He said ILO was a reputable organisation that would not allow or permit ambushes. He said the ILO committees were formed by people of high status.

It is not correct to say you were betrayed or ambushed because the issues were declared unresolved, therefore, the process details that they should then proceed to be examined by the committee. These included the issue of SESMAWU SG Maurine Nkambule and Mbongwa Dlamini, he said.

Gina said Eswatini was on the preliminary list that was issued before the ILO conference, hence he failed to understand what was the minister trying to say by using the words betrayed or ambushed. On the issue of lobbying and having over 30 countries examine Eswatini, Gina said the ministers statement was incorrect. It is not correct to say there were over 30 countries that examined Eswatini.

The majority of those who took the floor at the conference were trade union federations that are organised under the ITUC, not member States.

Therefore, you cannot even dare ask why trade unions support other workers because for us it is about solidarity, he said. Gina said countries that intervened on behalf of their governments in terms of noting that Eswatini needs to address the issues, were the United Kingdom, the United States of America (USA), and the European Union (EU). In terms of lobbying, the SG said this was part of the ILO conference. However, Minister Buthelezi stated that they discovered that the trade unions had done a lot of lobbying against Eswatini regarding various issues that were dealt with.

Ultimately

Lobbying is the order of the day, because their final list should have 24 countries out of 187 member States of ILO. To then be ultimately on the list of countries requires lobbying. There would then be meetings of the worker groups, the SG stated. He said inasmuch as they lobbied, they did not lobby governments but concentrated on worker organisations. Gina said they understood that the government of Eswatini also lobbied other governments for support, hence the government of Namibia and Morocco supported. Most of the government representatives who intervened were lobbied by government in meetings where trade unions were not present, he said.

The minister said the cases in which the country was held answerable were resolved in the in-country mediation that took place last year and a report was disseminated. Buthelezi added that some of the reports that were submitted by government had not been considered at the ILO conference.

We were hoping that the committee will first review the report before summoning the country, he said. The minister said what was disappointing the most was seeing how the country was treated at the conference.

He added that most of the speakers debated the labour issues of Eswatini, but did not show the same interest when debating issues of other countries.

The minister also noted that as the meeting progressed, some speakers brought up issues that were not on the agenda. During the meeting, the country was disparaged for suppressing union leaders, and some of the unionists were living in exile. He further pointed out that some of the speakers alleged that over 80 workers died during the 2021 political unrest, and tear gas was thrown into a bus ferrying workers to a protest action.

They also said the country was not democratic.
MANZINI  Amid the outcry of unemployment in Eswatini, a plea for assistance has been raised by unemployed citizens in Eswatini.

A basic income of E1 500, they argue, could ensure emaSwati navigate the economic hardships. Through the Swaziland Unemployed Peoples Movement (SUPMO), the unemployed suggested that this amount would serve as a life vest, amid the current economic situation caused by the high unemployment rate.

The unemployment rate in Eswatini is currently 35.4 per cent. During a press conference held at SUPMO premises, Lucky Dlamini, the Chairperson of SUPMO, stated that with youth month as their compass, the movement set out to highlight the realities of unemployment, particularly for young emaSwati, as they journeyed towards a solution to the economic crisis facing the kingdom.

Crime

Dlamini highlighted that as it were, the high unemployment rate in the country resulted in an increased crime rate and prostitution, which was seen especially among the youth, as well as drug abuse and suicides. We call upon government to introduce a basic income grant for the unemployed, the elderly and people with disabilities. It should be E1 500, because the standard of living is too high. We are also calling for government to grant emaSwati land grants, which would afford them title deeds to use the land as a form of access to the economy, as a form of capital, the chairperson said.He further expressed their call for government to also have clear programmes for decentralised skills, so that people could be well capacitated to use them.

Inflation

Dlamini mentioned that the inflation rate was high, and it did not leave the unemployed unaffected, as they too needed to buy bread, without generating any income. The chairperson stated that the unemployed also got sick and required to be hospitalised or receive medical attention. He stated that there was a challenge of the unavailability of drugs in hospitals. The chairperson was of the view that unemployed peoples needs were not catered for. He expressed a wish for Eswatni to emulate South Africa, which catered for the needs of South Africans. He stressed that as it were in the country, the unemployment rate is high.

Meanwhile, Ntokozo Shongwe, the movements advocate, said it disheartened them to see women being abused in the workplace, especially in the textile industry. She said this was in the form of meagre salaries, yet women were responsible for the welfare of their children and families. She also said women in the textile industry were retrenched without being awarded their lawful benefits. We ask government to assist us in this regard, so that we can be motivated. We need these jobs, because we earn a living through them, she said.




COME on board! John Hearne, Lifeboat Operations Manager, yells as he welcomes me into the Youghal station, located on the pier next to the Mall Arts Centre.

The RNLI flag is flying high and fishing boats are bobbing on the blue waves in the distance.

You came on a fine day! says John.

There has been a lifeboat station in the town for 165 years. What is Johns role?

I am responsible for the overall operations at the station, he says. Also, I am responsible for the day-to-day running of the station and I am designated to assist the Coastguard.

John shows me the Gordon and Phil B class Atlantic 85 vessel, assigned to Youghal lifeboat station in 2016, which can accommodate four crew. It was donated by a Gwenda Bull, of Brighton, England, and named after her parents.

John himself was in the UK earlier this year for a momentous occasion.

Myself and our lifeboat mechanic, Eric Brooks, had a fantastic day on March 4 at Westminster Abbey celebrating the 200th anniversary of the RNLI, says John.

Youghal Lifeboat Station is part of the rich history of the RNLI, and crews here have been awarded six RNLI medals for gallantry.

To save lives, RNLI crew take on the challenges that the roughest of seas throws at them. Why do they do it?

Growing up, I had always been involved with the sea, living in a community among fishermen, says John Griffin, who recently retired as Lifeboat Operations Manager (L.O.M) John was a member of the RNLI for 45 years.

I was always angling in Youghal and I decided to give something back, he explains,

My first trip out to sea on the lifeboat was in November, 1987, two years before the station celebrated its 150th anniversary.

Over the years, I have been involved in many sea rescues in many different situations and different weather situations.

One successful sea rescue was certainly different: John recalls his pager going off when a cow needed rescuing off the cliffs of Ardmore!

The animal got caught in an inlet and had no way back, he says. We got a call to assist in the rescue and went out and put a lifejacket around the cows neck and pulled her back to the beach where the farmer was waiting.

How did they secure the animal?

It was like a tug of war between us, but we eventually managed it! says John.

John Griffin Jnr - like father, like son, following in his dads footsteps, saving lives at sea - explains what happens when his pager goes off.

I am the helm, which means I can drive the boat, says John. The pager can go off any time anywhere. I make sure the boat is fuelled before I get kitted out to take part in a sea rescue.

Time is of the essence.

We drop whatever we are doing to answer the call, says John.

Liaising with the coastguard, we all decide between us what we are doing. Communication and trust between the crew is very important.

Every crew member follows a structured programme of competence-based training and assessment. This covers an agreed range of skills and competencies necessary to complete particular tasks. Safe operation procedures cover everything from boat handling, search and rescue, and navigation, to radar training, radio communication and casualty care.

Crew training is a continuous process and never stops, says John.

He has seen it all.

Ive been involved in numerous hairy rescues in bad weather; Ive seen people clinging to rocks holding on for dear life. Being able to save lives at sea is hugely satisfying for all involved.

Of course, we experience the tragic side at times and that is sad.

John says often people get complacent about the sea in good weather.

People get more daring and want to have more fun when the sun is shining, he says.

Keeping an eye on weather and changing conditions is very important if youre swimming or heading out to sea aboard a craft.

Mark Nolan, part of the Launching Authority Team; Eric Brooks, mechanic ; Sean Slattery, Launching Authority Management; John Hearne, Lifeboat Operations manager; John Griffin Jnr, Helm; and John Griffin, retired LOM at Youghal RNLI, marking 200 years of the organisation. Picture: Eddie OHare

Fellow RNLI volunteer Mark Nolan has a sea-faring background too.

My grandfather and my father were both sea-faring people, says Mark, a retired garda who has been involved in the RNLI for 27 years.

Going to sea, you need certain capabilities, adds Mark, who is part of the Launching Authority Team.

Health and safety is always a crucial part of training for volunteers, as is keeping up with the changes in technology.

Timing is everything.

Response immediately to a call-out is crucial, says Mark. And we are trained to give casualty care if required.

His training and commitment has often come into play over the years.

I remember one summer when two brothers were out in the harbour on a home-made raft, he says.

It was about 5pm in the evening. There was a northerly wind and an ebbing tide. An onlooker on the beach alerted us. It had got very cold. We located the raft, spotting it in the water.

The brothers were in the chilly sea.

We picked them out of the water, says Mark. They lived to tell the tale.

When Marks pager goes off, he hits the ground running.

The adrenaline is running, he says. It becomes second nature to you.

Sean Slattery, of the Launching Authority Management, at Youghal RNLI. Picture: Eddie OHare

When RNLI crew volunteer Sean Slattery moved back to Youghal in the 1990s, he had all the skills needed to sign up for saving lives at sea.

I come from a fishing sea-faring background, says Sean, who holds the title of Senior Helmsman.

I had the all the skills to become a volunteer with the RNLI. I was fit and healthy and willing to learn.

With the specific training involved in becoming a lifeboat member, I progressed and I was very willing to volunteer, adds Sean, who is a healthcare worker.

Keen powers of observation are just one necessity.

I live in that green house across the road, says Sean, showing me his home. I remember one Sunday afternoon seeing a boat with a cabin in front with two adults on board heading out the harbour. It was around lunchtime. I was reading the paper and time passed but I had an awareness that there was no sign of the boat returning. Where had they gone, I wondered?

Sean got a call-out on his pager.

At 7pm, the boat was in trouble under Black Ball Head. I took off out, he says.

There were three children on board as well as two adult. I took them on board the lifeboat and we headed back to shore. They were very grateful.

The RNLI crew at Youghal Lifeboat Station are very grateful to be able to give something back. All our volunteers play a vital role in saving lives at sea, says Sean.

All Youghals lifeboat men and women give up a lot of their time freely to train and man the lifeboats. They have to regularly attend courses on navigation, first aid, and VHF radio procedure, as well as doing practical courses on boat handling and general seamanship. They are on call 24 hours a day 365 days of the year.

As Mark Nolan says: It becomes second nature.

On Friday, our RNLI series concludes as we visit the Union Hall station.
Cork has around 30 beaches, but which is the finest? As part of our Cork Coasts series, the Peoples Republic of Cork have picked out their favourite 16.

Today, they conclude the countdown from No.8 to No.1 - and readers now get the chance to have their say.

Over the next few weeks, our Cork coastlines will battle it out to see who will be crowned Corks best beach, by you, our readers.

In the first round of our competition, we saw Heir Island take on Garryvoe but now in round two Garrylucas, Garretstown goes head-to-head with Blind Strand, Courtmacsherry

Cast your votes for Battle of the Beaches below.
FINANCE Minister Michael McGrath has pledged to support a Cork charity in improving the employment prospects of people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Mr McGrath visited Deaf Enterprises, which is Irelands only dedicated employer of people who are deaf or hard of hearing, at its premises in Ballinlough last week.

The charity  which describes itself as a profit for purpose  was founded in 1987 by Father Bill Clarke, and in the years since then it has earned a reputation for high quality furniture repair, re-upholstery, French polishing, and renovation.

The deaf community has historically suffered from disproportionately high levels of unemployment, and the Cork social enterprise currently employs 35 staff, 28 of whom are deaf or hard of hearing, or identify as having a disability.

Mr McGrath told The Echo he wanted to work with Deaf Enterprises to help it develop into the future.

One area that stands out is the role that Deaf Enterprises could play in helping people who are deaf or hard of hearing who have come through our education system at secondary level, to assist them in the path to sustainable employment that will last over the period ahead.

Mr McGrath said it was his intention to work with Deaf Enterprises to see what funding opportunities might be available.

There are young men and women who are coming through our education system who are deaf or hard of hearing who sometimes find it very difficult to secure employment or to retain employment.

I think a training service provided by those with expertise could help to make that search easier, but also ensure that the job can kept and sustained over a long time period, he said.
The return of the annual concert series to Virgin Media Park, formerly known as Musgrave Park, in Turners Cross reaps huge economic benefits to the local area and are welcome, according to the former Lord Mayor of Cork Mick Finn.

The former Cllr Finn said the interaction between the promoters and local residents is now really well established and that people look forward to the events.

He also highlighted the talent that will be performing at the venue, and the positive relationship between promoters MCD and the local community.

Having the likes of Shania Twain, Take That, Sting and the Wolfe Tones on our doorsteps is just fantastic and I know that people are looking forward to the 2024 series at Musgrave Park, said Mr Finn.

I have found the promoters, MCD, to be very responsive to local needs and the event plan that is there now has been informed by residents over the years and has ironed out some of the issues that were prevalent in the first year, long may this continue.

Mr Finn urged those attending the concerts to respect the area in terms of parking and behaviour and help ensure that this annual event will continue long into the future.

Ballyphehane Tidy Towns also welcomed the concert series to the area, with their very own banner outside the venue itself.

A spokesperson for the group said: We hope everyone enjoys the festivities, we will have extra bins around Ballyphehane, so please dispose of your litter correctly.

Our litter patrol volunteers will be on duty both outside and inside the venue for each concert.

Ballyphehane Tidy Towns founder, Konrad Im, pictured with a Ballyphehane TT poster welcoming people to the local area for the Virgin Media Park concert series.

Drama pilot project for students

The Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane has announced that it has been chosen to deliver a new pilot project for students interested in drama, film and theatre.

In a statement, the secondary school said:

We are delighted to announce that we have been chosen as one of very few pilot schools to introduce Drama, Film & Theatre Studies as a new Leaving Certificate examinable subject.

We have a deep-rooted history of the arts in our school and are thrilled to allow our students have the opportunity to use their skills to gain points in the Leaving Cert!

Sponsor a tile for centre

More than 500 has been raised for the new roof at Ballyphehane Community Centre. The centre has asked members of the community to sponsor a tile for just 10.

A spokesperson for the centre said: You can make a difference by donating today to Ballyphehane Community Centre!

We need you to sponsor a tile to improve our sports hall roof. It will cost over 290,000 in total.

We are asking for just 10 per person! Each sponsor will be acknowledged, with their name inside the community centre and online.

Donate today to make a difference in your community.

The link to donate is available on the Ballyphehane Community Centres Facebook page.

Former Lord Mayor Mick Finn thanks community for support

After 15 years representing the Cork South Central Local Electoral Area, former Independent councillor Mick Finn has thanked all of those who supported him over his three council terms. Elected Lord Mayor in 2018, Mr Finn decided not to run at the elections earlier this month. I would firstly like to congratulate the six new councillors for the LEA  Shane OCallaghan, Sean Martin, Fiona Kerins, Padraig Rice, Paudie Dineen and Dan Boyle  and wish them well for the five years ahead.

Then Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Mick Finn, taking part in the annual dart throwing ceremony on board the LE George Bernard Shaw in Cork Harbour back in 2019. Picture: David Keane

I know the level of work required is huge so good luck to them in facing the challenges that will present.

Mr Finn expressed his gratitude to the people of Greenmount, Ballyphehane, Turners Cross, Togher and beyond for their support during his tenure. I was truly honoured to represent the area on the city council and thank all those whom I met, especially the volunteer and community groups, for their support and their selfless work. Mr Finn said he may dip his toe into the political arena again.

Ill take a few weeks off and will decide on a Dail run over the summer.

Student welcome at City Hall

Pupils from Togher Togher Girls National School were recently welcomed to Cork City Hall by Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Kieran McCarthy. The school choir even put on a performance for the Lord Mayor. In a statement, the local primary school thanked Mr McCarthy for extending an invitation to the local pupils to visit City Hall. It was an honour for our choir to perform for you, the school added.

New councillors welcomed

Ballyphehane Togher Community Development Project (CDP) has congratulated incoming local members of Cork City Council.

The organisation also said it is looking forward to working with the newly elected local councillors, Shane OCallaghan, Sean Martin, Fiona Kerins, Padraig Rice, Paudie Dineen and Dan Boyle.

In a statement, Ballyphehane Togher CDP said: Comhghairdeas mor to all our newly elected city councillors  beir bua in the work ahead! Ballyphehane Togher CDP, covering Cork South Central and Cork South West, has a special remit in these areas and we look forward to working collaboratively with all the councillors in our local wards, across all parties and none.

Even though weve a small base, weve a wide reach and our catchment area has gradually stretched into Cork South East but also right across the city through our interagency involvement in many city wide programmes and initiative.

So, were delighted to see so many great community representatives re-elected and excitingly some first time candidates joining the council chamber.

Sadly too, were sorry to lose some good community allies who didnt make it through this time, and especially some fantastic women, the CDP added. The city owes you all much  thanks for your service, which weve no doubt youll continue! All those who ran in the local elections deserve great credit. To all of you who voted, well done too, youre an essential part of how democracy works!7
CORK looks set to have its first Green Lord Mayor, with negotiations to decide the running of Cork City Council over the next five years described as a done deal by most of those involved.

According to multiple sources, an alliance has been agreed between Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, the Green Party and the Labour Party.

However, the leader of Fine Gael in City Hall sounded a note of caution on Tuesday evening, saying the deal had yet to be finalised.

The agreement, if formally signed, would see the lord mayoralty passing, over the next five years, between two Fianna Fail councillors, one Fine Gael councillor, one Green and one Labour.

Fianna Fail gained two seats at the local elections two weeks ago, giving them nine seats, while Fine Gael lost two, giving them five, the Greens have three seats, and Labour, which gained two seats, has three.

With 31 seats in the council, 16 votes would give a slender majority, but it is understood that both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are anxious to have a large enough majority to cushion against sudden shocks.

With Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, the Greens and Labour working together, they would have a combined majority of 20.

It is understood that the lord mayoralty would first go to the Green Partys Dan Boyle, followed by Fianna Fails Fergal Dennehy, Fine Gaels Garret Kelleher, Fianna Fails Mary Rose Desmond, with the Labour Partys John Maher lord mayor in the fifth and final year of the council term.

Councillor Dan Boyle (left) and Councillor Kieran McCarthy, the current Lord Mayor. Pic: Brian Lougheed

Each party would have a deputy lord mayor, and it is understood that Mr Boyles deputy will be the newly elected Green councillor Honore Kamegni, who came to Ireland as a refugee from Cameroon in 2002.

Additionally, Fianna Fail would chair three special policy committees (SPCs), Fine Gael two, and the Greens and Labour would co-chair the remaining sixth SPC.

Mr Boyle said he had been a councillor for 16 years, and it had been 33 years since he had first been elected to the council.

I feel I would bring a certain experience to the role of lord mayor, but I am conscious that I will need the support of at least 15 other councillors to fill that role, he said.

The new lord mayor is expected to be formally elected at the annual general meeting of Cork City Council, which will take place on Friday evening.

One person with knowledge of the negotiations described them as very cordial but very difficult.

Fianna Fail councillor Terry Shannon, who was part of his partys negotiating team, said on Tuesday evening that the arrangement was a done deal.

In every democratic chamber, you have to get together like-minded people who are willing to work together for the greater good, Mr Shannon said.

Were elected to run the city and we have to have a lord mayor. Weve put together a very good civic alliance, and others are welcome to join us. However, Des Cahill, Fine Gaels leader in City Hall, said on Tuesday night that the deal had not been finalised.

I have yet to be convinced that [this deal] is the right fit.

I am confident that it will be resolved by Friday, but only time will tell whether my prediction is correct, he said.

It is understood that the Green Party, the Labour Party and the Social Democrats Padraig Rice will form a technical group in City Hall, giving it access to whips meetings and a say in the running of council business, although Mr Rice will not be part of the agreement which will run local government in the city for the next five years.

Mr Maher said he and his recently elected Labour colleagues Peter Horgan and Laura Harmon had made a difficult decision, but had done so because they had been elected to represent their constituents.

We were elected to do the very best job we can for the city that we love and the people who trusted us with their votes and thats what we are going to do, he said.

Sinn Fein councillor Kenneth Collins said there had been some negotiations between his party and Fianna Fail but he felt those discussions had never been serious.

Were bitterly disappointed, because we were all elected to represent the city and I cant believe that new Labour councillors, elected on a promise of change, have instead turned the clock back 15 years to the pact of the bad old days, he said.
Green Party members in Cork have paid tribute to outgoing leader Eamon Ryan following his announcement that he has decided to step down as head of the Greens.

One party member said: His mark will remain on the city.

Mr Ryan announced his decision yesterday, saying he believes the time is right to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders.

He will remain on as party leader until a new leader is appointed.

Mr Ryan is currently Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Minister for Transport and he will remain on in those roles.

However, he will not contest the next general election, citing family commitments as the reason behind his decision.

Deputy leader Catherine Martin also announced she would step back from her role, adding that she was not putting herself forward for the leadership contest.

Pictured in 2019 - (L-R) Catherine Martin, deputy leader of the Green Party, Grace O'Sullivan, then MEP; councillor Oliver Moran and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan trying out electric bikes from City View Wheels, Blarney Street, Cork. Picture: Larry Cummins.

In Cork, Green Party councillor in the citys North East ward, Oliver Moran, paid tribute to the outgoing leader.

In a list of the most important politicians of the first century of the Irish state, any list not including Eamon Ryan is going to be biased and imbalanced, Mr Moran said.

It can only happen if you ignore the climate and biodiversity crises and his lasting significance in setting our national and EU responses.

Its been my deep privilege to have known him and worked with him as a colleague and friend in the last decade of that century, he told The Echo.

He has a deep personal connection to Cork. That connection will endure in infrastructure like the upgrade happening in suburban rail, the bridge to Tramore Valley Park, and the cycle connection between the city centre, Glanmire, and Little Island.

His mark will remain on the city through those works and more for the next century to come.

Meanwhile, veteran Green Party councillor Dan Boyle  whose political career has also included stints as a TD and as a senator  said he will always be grateful to Mr Ryan as a friend and colleague for his efforts and achievements.

His belief in the politics of the next generation over that of the electoral cycle, sets him apart, Mr Boyle said.

Policy decisions he has influenced will bear fruit in the future.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan and Cork Green Party councillor Dan Boyle canvassing on Noonans Road during the recent local elections. Mr Boyle paid tribute to Mr Ryan saying policy decisions he has influenced will bear fruit in the future, a sentiment echoed by other Cork Greens, who also praised his help with canvassing.

The newest addition to the Green Partys team on Cork City Council, Honore Kamegni, said he was disappointed by the announcement.

I met Eamon a couple of times  he came down to Cork to help me with my campaign twice, with the canvassing.

He did a great job with the party.

Mr Ryan began his political career as a Dublin City councillor for the Rathgar-Rathmines ward before going on to serve as a TD in the old Dublin South constituency and later in Dublin Bay South.

Speaking outside Leinster House yesterday, Mr Ryan said: Ive spent the last 30 years either running for or holding public office.

Its been an absolute privilege, and I want to thank the electorate who voted for me on eight different occasions over those years, giving me the opportunity to serve our city and our country to the best of my ability.

Im stepping down to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders, confident in the strength and values Ive seen built up in our party over all these years.

I will continue as party leader and in my ministerial roles until a new leader is appointed and look forward to fulfilling whatever role a new leader assigns me for the remaining term of this Government.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin wished Mr Ryan well following the announcement, lauding him as a man of integrity and commitment.

We have a good relationship, both personally and professionally, Mr Martin stated in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

He has always been consistent in his personal beliefs in terms of climate and biodiversity.

Pictured in 2002 are then Green Party TDs Ciaran Cuffe, Dan Boyle, then party leader Trevor Sargent and Eamon Ryan pictured in Dublin's O'Connell St where they chained themselves to highlight the council's proposed plan to chop down all the trees in the capital's main street. Picture: Billy Higgins

Meanwhile, Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns also took to social media to pay tribute to the outgoing Green Party leader.

I want to wish Eamon Ryan the very best as he steps down as leader of the Green Party, the Cork South-West TD said.

He has always been sincere and helpful and can be proud of his significant contribution to Irish public life.

Mr Ryan is the second coalition leader to resign this year.

In April, Leo Varadkar stepped down as Taoiseach and leader of the Fine Gael party.

The Green Party had a disappointing performance nationally during the local and European elections earlier this month.

Grace OSullivan and Ciaran Cuffe missed out on a return to Brussels in the European election, and the party lost half its seats on local councils.

It followed a triumph for the party in the previous local and European elections.
A POPULAR Cork author will be clearing space on what is already a busy mantlepiece, as he receives a prestigious award in the US later this year.

The Irish Books, Arts and Music (iBAM) awards take place every year at the American Irish Heritage Center in Chicago and celebrate the best in Irish culture.

This year, the iBAM award for literature will go to Devonshire author and playwright Conal Creedon.

Past recipients of the iBAM award for literature include Frank McCourt, Marian Keyes, John B Keane, Maeve Binchy, Colm McCann, Mary Dempsey, Colm Tobin and Tim Pat Coogan.

The award will be presented to Mr Creedon at a ceremony in Chicago in October.

The announcement comes after news that Mr Creedon will be this years recipient of the World Cultural Council award for arts at a ceremony at McGill University in Montreal, in October.

Popularity

Mr Creedon has long enjoyed popularity in the United States, and he first presented a coast-to-coast seven-city reading tour as a guest of the Irish American Cultural Institute back in 2007.

Since then he has been a regular visitor stateside, speaking at universities and Irish festivals, introducing screenings of his documentaries and attending productions of his stage plays, with numerous productions of his plays produced in New York.

Limerick-born author Malachy McCourt said recently of Mr Creedons writing: They say if Dublin was burnt down it could be rebuilt again by reading the work of James Joyce.

Well the very same could be said about Creedons work, Cork City could be built from his words.

Writing in the New York Times, critic Rachel Saltz said of him: Mr Creedons words are enough to create a world that is at once comic and dramatic, poetic and musical.
Roderic OGorman said the Green Party does not do coronations, as he is set to go head to head with Pippa Hackett in the party leadership contest.

The Minister for Children and Integration and Ms Hackett, a junior minister and Senator, announced their plans today to run in the leadership bid.

It comes a day after Eamon Ryan said he would be stepping down as party leader.

Ms Hackett has received the backing of Green Party TD Ossian Smyth and Senator Pauline OReilly.

Mr OGorman, who is understood to have the backing of TD Joe OBrien, said he believes he has the right experience and vision to lead the party.

I also have the experience of being a cabinet minister for the last four years, progressing some major pieces of legislation, major pieces of policy through Government, he told RTE News at One.

What we need to do as a party is to broaden our policy appeal. We have made amazing achievements in the area of climate, but we have never been a single issue party and we need to be bringing forward policies that have significant improvements in peoples lives.

I expect Pippa will join the race, and I welcome that. I think a contest is good, we dont do coronations in the Green Party.

I think we will have a good opportunity to discuss these issues.

Policies

He added: I believe I have shown that the policies I have introduced in four years as minister are highly relevant to people living all over this country, halving the cost of childcare, increasing parents leave, bring the Dais model for pre-school.

These are issues that are important to families, important to parents whether they are living in urban Ireland or rural Ireland.

Senator and Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Pippa Hackett, said she believed she can make the party relevant and relatable.

Ms Hackett told Newstalk: I am delighted to say that I am putting my name forward to be the next leader of the Green Party.

I think Eamons departure yesterday does give us an opportunity in the party for a fresh start.

I believe a fresh start is needed.

I believe I can be that fresh start. Im not your conventional Green. I live in rural Ireland. Im a beef and sheep farmer, Im also a mother.

Ive also been a cabinet minister for the past four years and the party has never really had a non-Dublin leader, weve never had a woman lead the party.

I believe my different perspective and certainly my different life experiences can make the Green Party relevant and relatable inside and outside of Dublin.

Deputy leader Catherine Martin also announced on Tuesday she will step back from her role, adding that she is not putting herself forward for the leadership contest.

Coalition partners

The party is one of the three Government coalition partners, and suffered a poor performance at the local and European elections earlier this month, which saw the Greens lose both of their MEP seats.

Junior Minister Malcolm Noonan said that he is backing Mr OGorman, and welcomed a debate around the partys communications.

We will go through a process, it will be very democratic process, he said.

I think it would be useful for the party to have a conversation about recalibration, about where we see ourselves strategically as we head into the next election.

We always want to be in Government. The only way we can implement any of our policies is by being in Government and we are never afraid to do that.

I am looking forward to the debate. Ive already rode my support in behind Minister Roderic OGorman. I think as a cabinet minister he brings with him huge experience, not just strategically in the party but also as a Government minister.

We are blessed and lucky to have so many fantastic people in the party.

He added: We certainly have a role to play in rural issues and thats my own background as well.

Critically we do need to use this period of the election of a new leader to have a focus and a think about the messaging of the party.

Speaking on Morning Ireland on Wednesday, Mr Smyth said he hopes to be a future leader of the party but will not join the contest this time.

Relevant

He also said the Green Party needs to be relevant outside Dublin.

I think the party needs a big change, he said.

Theres this narrative that the Green Party is in opposition to rural Ireland and its not true and we need to counter that very clearly.

Our last three leaders of the Green Party have been all from Dublin and I think that we need to make sure that we are clearly relevant outside of Dublin as well.

Although it was a sad and poignant moment yesterday to have Eamon leaving after 13 years, it is an opportunity for change and we need something completely different.
Just make a big shepherds pie, my friend advised.

I was stressing about how we had such a lot on the next weekend with so many people coming and going.

Guests coming from around Ireland as well as the UK and America for a big family occasion; people staying wherever they could lay their head. You know the kind of thing.

I might have to provide food for a multitude on the Saturday, I worried.

Listen, you cant go wrong with a shepherds pie, my friend counselled.

Its real comfort food, people love it and when youre under pressure its not as fiddly as lasagne.

This was a great idea, I thought.

You could make a humongous mix in advance, she suggested, and rather than putting the whole thing into one enormous lasagne dish, divide it up into two or three smaller casserole dishes, top each one with your mashed potato, cook them and then re-heat as needed. Just make sure you get Kerrs Pinks or Golden Wonders for the mashed potato topping. Theyll last well in the fridge over the 24 hours.

She wasnt a fan of Roosters herself, she said, and certainly not as a topping for a Shepherds Pie that had to wait 24 hours in a fridge before it was eaten.

Oh right, I said, a bit puzzled. (I am generally not that picky about which species of potato I use. Golden Wonders, Kerrs Pink, Roosters, Schmoosters.

I bought the three pounds of minced lamb. I bought the onions, the garlic, the head of celery and a few bunches of nice fresh organic carrots. A bottle of red wine to add richness to the stock. Id need tomato puree too. Butter, parmesan and garlic salt for the mashed potato topping  oh yes, if we were going to have Shepherds Pie, this was going to be a posh Shepherds Pie.

Also on the list was fresh thyme, rosemary and parsley, which Id take from, yes, my very own flourishing herb bed (of which I am immensely proud.) Oh, and potatoes, I reminded myself; dont forget the potatoes.

In the shop I remembered. Hadnt she said to get only Golden Wonders or Kerrs Pink? I browsed the butchers- he does a line in nice fresh local vegetables  and then tried the vegetable aisles of two different supermarkets. Only roosters.

Nobody seemed to have Kerrs Pink or Golden Wonders.

Not to be had at this point, a shop assistant said when I eventually inquired.

So yes, we have a potato shortage. Its here. Its now. No more taking an automatic supply of our favourite spuds for granted.

I watched the Tik Tok video uploaded by Dan Horan, the Killarney fruit and veg supplier. Dan explained what had happened with Golden Wonders and Kerrys Pink this year. Kerrs Pink and Golden Wonders, which would normally be available until July, are finished for the moment. Done. They wont be available until the new season in August.

Its this damn weather. The climate turbulence last autumn  endless rain and floods followed by the frost in October - meant that many popular late potato varieties such as Kerrs Pink were lost.

On top of that the prolonged and often torrential rain which was inflicted on us throughout the spring months caused serious and widespread delays in actually getting the spuds into the ground.

Horan suggests people try another kind of potato called Marquis, which is grown on a farm in Ardfert. A very nice potato, he said; hed tried them himself.

In his video Horan declared that its been the worst year for growing potatoes that he has experienced in 35 years.

The IFA described last years growing season as the worst in living memory.

God almighty, I thought, and all I wanted was a few spuds for a shepherds pie. I noticed a tall, rangy farmer-type in his seventies or eighties. He looked like a man who knew his spuds. I asked him about the situation.

Not to be had, girl. The weather, he said succinctly.

SuperValu would have them, Id say, but dont expect big sacks.

And sure enough I eventually tracked down some Kerrs Pink  in smallish bags in SuperValu.

I thought of my friend and her shepherds pie topping that absolutely had to be made from Kerrs Pink potatoes.

Potatoes are personal  as someone said, theres no point telling people who drink Guinness to try Heineken. People who have always eaten Kerrs Pink wont want to hear about Roosters. But they may find that they dont have a choice.

One expert said that while theres always been wet years and dry years, this past 12 months has been a bit frightening. Normally planting would be completed in April to May would be very late. But planting in June? Almost unheard of until this year.

I pay for my surprisingly small bag of Kerrs Pink and bring it home. I put it beside the big bag of Roosters I also bought. I couldnt find the Marquis potatoes; maybe theyre still only to be had in shops in Kerry. They say that new potato varieties with shorter growing seasons could mitigate the risks to crops of weather extremes in the coming years.Us non-potato-growers can only hope the weather gets back to normal or that Teagasc is on top of this.
The resignation of Green Party leader Eamon Ryan is among a range of stories featuring on Wednesdays front pages.

The Irish Times leads with the Green Party leadership hopefuls, while the Irish Independent claims the party has been "thrown into chaos".

The Irish Examiner reports that Mr Ryan's resignation makes a general election before the end of the year more likely.

The Irish Daily Mail says Irish holidaymakers' "worst fears" were realised when Aer Lingus pilots announced indefinite industrial action.

Taylor Swift has Irish ancestry, according to the Irish Daily Mirror.

The Irish Daily Star speaks to the daughter of Dublin's "taxi rapist".

The Belfast Telegraph reports that a fresh row has broken out over Orange Order parades at a notorious flashpoint in north Belfast.

The Herald reports on a man caught transporting 6 million worth of cannabis in shoeboxes.

Childline will receive a wave of calls from anxious children in the coming days as the school holidays begin, The Echo reports.

The British papers are led by Tory claims that a Labour government will target money-savers with taxes.

The claims stem from Keir Starmer ruling out increasing taxes for working people, according to The Times.

The Daily Mail reports a Labour dossier revealed plans for tax raids to billions, while the Daily Express says British prime minister Rishi Sunak has warned the party would plunder savers accounts within weeks.

Wednesdays Daily EXPRESS: PM: Labour Will Tax Your Years Of Savings In Weeks #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/D8FTkwcDv7  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) June 18, 2024

Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror says the Conservatives are adrift from reality after British finance minister Jeremy Hunt said his government had done a great job.

Senior Tories are already jostling to replace the Mr Sunak as the partys leader following the UK general election, according to the Financial Times.

Wednesdays FINANCIAL Times: Tory hopefuls jockey for position as post-poll race to succeed Sunak looms #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/ofpHo3zuI3  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) June 18, 2024

The Guardian reports the UK health service would buy beds in care homes to cut hospital waits under a Labour government.

Wednesdays GUARDIAN: NHS will buy beds in care homes to cut hospital waits, says Labour #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/ZZW9O3YqK1  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) June 18, 2024

The Telegraph leads with analysis showing the UK is 20 years behind Europe on cancer care.

 The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph:



'Britain 20 years behind Europe on cancer care'#TomorrowsPapersToday



Sign up for the Front Page newsletter  https://t.co/x8AV4Oomry pic.twitter.com/97JkESV06t  The Telegraph (@Telegraph) June 18, 2024

The i reports the British government has held private talks over cashflow issues at major IT contractor Atos.

Wednesdays i - UK in secret talks over financial turmoil at IT giant that could hit benefits and NHS #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/nDvkYYriN9  Allie Hodgkins-Brown (@AllieHBNews) June 18, 2024

Metro leads with a forensic accountant telling the UK Post Office Horizon inquiry that he felt he was dealing with a cover-up.

Tomorrow's Paper Today 



POST OFFICE IN 'CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY'



 I felt there was a cover-up, accountant tells inquiry #tomorrowspaperstoday pic.twitter.com/C7alljxuSE  Metro (@MetroUK) June 18, 2024

And the Daily Star says a quarter of young adults admit to eating while on the toilet.
By Cate McCurry and David Young, PA

Eamon Ryans resignation as Green Party leader will not destabilise the coalition Government nor change the timing of the next general election, the Taoiseach and Tanaiste have said.

The Environment Ministers announcement that he will step down as party has prompted speculation of an early general election.

However, Simon Harris, the Taoiseach, moved to end the speculation, saying Mr Ryans decision does not alter plans to have the Government serve its full term.

Mr Ryan made the shock announcement on Tuesday, but will remain in place until his party elects his successor.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan announced he would step down as leader of the Green Party. Photo: Evan Treacy/PA.

Minister for Children Roderic OGorman announced plans to run in the leadership contest, and he will be joined by Minister of State Pippa Hackett.

Speaking in Clones, County Monaghan, Mr Harris described his Government partner as a politician of real substance that has made a lasting impact in Ireland.

I am conscious that he intends to continue to serve until the next general election. I look forward to working with him, Mr Harris added.

Obviously, over the next few weeks, its a matter for the Green Party to chose who their next leader is, and I wish them well with that process.

From a Government point of view, the Government continues. There is a programme for government, its between three parties, not any individual.

Its a programme that was hard negotiated over a long period of time. My commitment as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael, I believe the commitment of all parties in Government now is to keep getting on with the peoples business.

I dont think it in any way alters the thinking on the timing of the next general election.

Micheal Martin, the Tanaiste, took a similar stance on the future of the current Government, saying it will go full term.

He made the comments as he attended the completion of phase two of the restoration of the Ulster Canal.

The restoration of the disused water link is a flagship north-south infrastructure project.

Mr Martin said: In terms of the Government and its cohesion, one of the reasons we are here is to reflect.

Today is a manifestation of the cohesion and the capacity of this Government to deliver on the programme for government and the shared island initiative is one of those initiatives and it has delivered this wonderful facility here.

The Government is about the programme for government. Eamon Ryans entitled to make a decision to retire as leader of the Green Party, and ultimately not contest the next general election.

Yesterday, I paid tribute to Eamons contribution to Irish public life and, in particular, he has fundamental beliefs which he has stood by over many decades and has made a lasting impact.

This Government again has been very strong in terms of addressing the climate issues, the biodiversity issues in a way that I would argue previous governments have not been able to do and weve had resources to be able to do a lot in terms of retrofitting and public transport.

The remaining part of the Government is we go full term.

Referring to former Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkars resignation from the party in April, Mr Martin said it hasnt destabilised the Government.
FOR many years, yoga teacher Sarah Matthews nurtured the dream of creating a space where she could share the enjoyment of the magical natural world surrounding her home on Heir Island.

In 2012, that dream became a reality when Heir Island Retreat was born. Its a beautiful space for yoga and meditation retreats and has self-catering accommodation. It can be used for many purposes, but also to simply chill out, enjoy stunning views, and listen to the sounds of the seabirds and the ocean waves crashing up against the rugged island coastline.

Since childhood, Sarah has enjoyed the gorgeous landscape of the little island, spending idyllic summer days there with her family at their island holiday home, which they frequented since her adventurous parents purchased it in the 1960s.

Her family, who hailed from the UK, loved going on camping holidays, and one particular time whilst camping just across the water in nearby Cunnamore, her parents Frank and Jean found their way to Heir Island where they were instantly smitten with the landscape and the pace of life.

Fortuitously, they heard about a house for sale on the island and decided to buy it. It had been previously used to store hay, so it was a labour of love doing it up.

It was such a special place, and still is of course, but looking back now on those summers we spent there as kids, I have nothing but fond memories of great times and of the islanders who lived there and whom we got to know and love.

We had great freedom to roam around the place, we were taken on fishing trips and I loved seeing the phosphorescence glowing in the water.

Although many of the wonderful and kind people from Heir who Sarah knew from her childhood, have since either left the island, or have passed on, her time spent with them has left an indelible warm memory in her heart.

Sarah Matthews is one of just 15 residents on Heir island in the winter months. Picture Dan Linehan

She recalls watching Charlie Minihan planting potatoes and milking the cows as the days gently unfolded with the rhythm of the work and the setting of the sun.

Lots of islanders had a donkey which used to carry things around the place and women fetched water from the pumps, she said.

She recalls her dad helping people to fill out forms, and in return getting gifted with carrageen moss, periwinkles and fresh milk by way of thanks.

The special quality inherent in the natural beauty of Heir Island endured in Sarahs heart, and in 2008 she returned from the UK to make the island her full-time home.

Sarah is one of only 15 full time residents who live on the island during the winter, with the population swelling during the summer months as visitors make their way across the tiny stretch of water from Cunnamore pier to immerse themselves in the pure intoxication of the natural world which is to be found there.

Heir island is situated in Roaringwater Bay, off the south-west coast of County Cork, and the bay is aptly named, suiting the wild appearance of the sea often witnessed during the strong gales which rise up in the Atlantic Ocean.

Sarah outside her home.

Only a five minute ferry journey from Cunnamore pier, Sarah enjoys welcoming visitors who come to stay at her retreat centre which she runs along with her husband Paul.

Over the years, the availability of her yoga retreat space has spread through word of mouth, and Sarah is delighted to be able to run a business which is in keeping with the gentle way of life on the island.

She recalls her childhood days spent there with great fondness when the population was more buoyant than now.

I have so many great memories of Heir in the days when there was a bigger population. In those days there was both a shop and a post office. In the 1970s there was no running water nor electricity on the island.

Sarah enjoys welcoming visitors who come to stay at her retreat centre which she runs along with her husband Paul.

These days we have high speed broadband which makes life so much easier, but we dont have a shop or post office. Everything comes in on the ferry, or on your own boat, but you would never be stuck for anything. Although the full-time population is small, people here pull together.

When we first moved here, we were lucky enough to have our own well, but many people used the pump on the main road, and there was also a pump in Paris, which is a townland on the island, not the French capital.

Everybody had these big oil drums which were used to collect rainwater, which is what we now refer to as sustainable practice.

Sarah on her yoga mat.

I recall Bridie ONeills shop, which had a corrugated iron lean-to on the side of the house and a long counter. Bridie and Christie who ran the shop were lovely people and the shop was at the heart of the community.

Women would take the butter which they had made themselves and exchange it for groceries.

I recall the delicious aroma of the freshly baked bread from Fields of Skibbereen, which was stored in these giant tea chests in the shop. There were always tins of peas and beans to fall back on if supplies were needed, but most people grew a few vegetables. There were bars of chocolate on offer, mint crisps were one of my favourites, a lovely treat, and they were worth the walk over as far as the shop to buy.

The post office would be kept busy giving out pensions and sending parcels, which would have to be put onto the ferry. There was also a telephone there, those were the days before everybody had mobiles and you had to head over to ONeills in order to make a call.

The post office closed in 1988, and that was the end of an era on Heir island.

Electricity finally came to the island in 1976, and piped water soon followed in 1983. The little school closed its doors forever too in 1976, and for some years afterwards it was used as a meeting place for the islanders.

Sarah Matthews who runs Heir Island Retrea on Heir Island, West Cork. Picture Dan Linehan

People used to gather to play cards in amicable companionship with no need to fill the silence, there was a certain contentment in those moments. People talk about trying to be in the present moment these days, but Heir islanders knew how to be mindful without having to force anything, it was just a natural way of being, said Sarah.

I remember the weddings on the island too. Couples used to go out to the mainland to the church in Lisheen or Kilcoe to get married. Ill never forget the sight of the bride in all her glory wearing her beautiful white wedding dress and being helped off the boat by her groom at the pier to go and celebrate the wedding party, which was often held in the brides house on the island.

And I remember vividly the Hauling Home which was a welcome home party often held for a Heir island bride returning from America where she had been married, and then coming back home to celebrate her wedding with her family on the island, these were really special times.

Sarah recalled other social gatherings on Heir, and one of the highlights of those was the Stations where Mass was celebrated in the house. This custom actually dates back to Penal times, when it was forbidden to practise the Catholic religion, so Mass was not celebrated in public but in a private house, or else in the open air in a secret location.

There would be great preparations done for the Stations, the house would be scrubbed from top to bottom and the walls would be painted. There was lots of food prepared for the meal after the Mass, and I can remember singing and dancing and great fun late on into the night.

Each house would have the Stations in turn and they were held twice a year, in Spring and Autumn. The Mass would be said early in the day, and then the meal was had, and the night of the stations was an important social event with people having a party in the Station House.

Sarah spent idyllic summer holidays on Heir island.

These days, I do miss the people that used to live here.

There is so much to offer on this island, but without the availability of accommodation it is difficult to know what lies in the future for the island.

I think the Covid years brought one positive thing in that people realised that you could work from home and here on the island we have excellent broadband.

The only thing I miss about life on the mainland is being spontaneous, if you just feel like a meal out or catching a play in Cork you have to make sure to plan ahead, but its only a small thing compared with the wonderful life that we enjoy here.

I really love this island, and my hope is that it will endure into the future, and that people wishing to live here will be supported to do so.
Artificial intelligence is behind a significant surge in sophisticated bad bot traffic, which went from bad to worse in the first quarter of this year. Instead of human net surfers, these bad bots generated nearly half of all web traffic.

AI-driven super bots comprised 33% of observed activity and employed advanced evasion techniques to bypass traditional detection tools. These top-level automated attacks on e-commerce revenue, customers, and brands generate increasingly steep financial losses and network security breaches.

On May 30, bot defense developer Kasada released its automated threats quarterly report for January through March 2024. The report shows a strategic shift toward more organized and financially motivated online fraud activities. It illustrates how adversaries use a blend of existing and new solver services and advanced exploit kits to bypass traditional bot mitigation tools effectively.

Bots generating 46% of internet traffic is not surprising. What is unexpected is that nearly one-third of those bad bots have been classified as sophisticated types, remarked Nick Rieniets, field CTO at Kasada.

It indicates that bots are becoming increasingly advanced to overcome increasingly sophisticated bot defenses. Fraudsters are taking advantage of tools, such as highly customized versions of Google Puppeteer and Microsoft Playwright, to develop these automated threats, Rieniets told the E-Commerce Times.

Escalating Fraudulent Online Transactions

The Kasada report highlights primary shifts in bot operations compared to previous quarters. The primary goal of the Quarterly Threat Report is to equip cybersecurity and threat intelligence professionals with the critical information needed to understand and counteract current attack vectors.

The new sophistication and coordination of automated cyberattacks show four key observations:

Advanced solver services can automatically bypass Captcha and other human verification methods. They use machine-learning algorithms and human-assisted solutions that mimic legitimate human interactions. New and updated exploit kits target vulnerabilities in web applications, APIs, and third-party integrations. These automated processes enable attackers to launch large-scale assaults with minimal effort. They increase the efficiency and scalability of attacks to pose a significant threat to organizations that rely on legacy security measures. Bots are designed to masquerade as legitimate traffic by mimicking human behavior and simulating mouse movements, keystrokes, and other user interactions to evade detection. This approach indicates a shift towards using bots for organized online fraud. Bad bot builders plan upcoming account takeover campaigns and arbitrage opportunities in online underground forums. These forums are hotbeds for selling automated tools and services that facilitate these activities. This strategy lowers the entry barrier for bad actors, increasing the frequency and scale of automated attacks.

We are seeing people with very low skill levels develop bots. Additionally, organizations providing public LLMs use web scrapers aggressively to train their models. So, this has become a major concern for many businesses today, observed Rieniets, adding that cybercrime-as-a-service is also a contributing factor.

Today, they can just buy [bots] and deploy them at will. Some of them, such as all-in-one or AIO bots, are even automated to conduct the entire process from start to finish, he said.

Geographical Breakdown

Analysis of bot activities reveals hotspots in regions with high adversarial activity, including the United States, Great Britain, Japan, Australia, and China.

Technology Fuels Bad Bot Availability

Rieniets is not surprised by the surge in bad bot traffic. Things have worsened as the sophisticated bots originally developed for purchasing sneakers online are being repurposed to conduct fraud and abuse for broader retail, e-commerce, travel, and hospitality segments.

Moreover, bots are a cost-effective, scalable way to generate profits with fraudulent techniques like credential stuffing and reselling cracked accounts and abusive tactics such as automating the purchase and resale of highly sought-after items, such as electronics and sneakers.

Accessibility of better bots leads to even bigger profits, he added.

A related problem is account takeovers (ATO) because consumers use the same login credentials for various accounts. Fraudsters exploit this by using stolen credentials to launch credential-stuffing attacks.

But consumers alone are not to blame. Many companies still rely on ineffective anti-bot defenses that cannot detect automated abuse against their customers account login, he said.

The Cheap Cost of Committing Cybercrime

Most surprising for Rieniets is that the average price of a stolen retail account is only $1.15. These are often worth a lot more for those willing to commit fraud, he opined.

For example, fraudsters can make unauthorized purchases and redeem loyalty points with these stolen accounts. Given how inexpensively and easily they can obtain stolen customer accounts online in marketplaces and private Discord and Telegram communities, they can make enormous profits, he explained.

Bot attackers have solved traditional anti-bot defenses and Captchas. They can buy solver services that cost less than a penny per solution. This minuscule expense tips the scales in favor of the attacker because it makes attacks very inexpensive. Meanwhile, the defenders spend lots of money in mitigation attempts and cannot pivot as quickly, Rieniets said.

A lot of what we observe with stolen accounts can be attributed to outdated anti-bot defenses where the operator has retooled, and the customer often is not even aware they are being bypassed, he noted.

The solution for defenders is to increase the cost for adversaries to attack and retool, according to Rieniets. Modern anti-bot defenses can adapt their defenses, so they present themselves differently to the attacker every time.

This approach frustrates and deceives attackers. It makes it incredibly time-consuming and expensive to attempt to succeed. In doing so, these modern tools remove attackers ability to make an easy profit.
(Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC)Graduation of the Master's program in Ecumenical Theology at World Council of Churches' Ecumenical Institute at Bossey, in Switzerland on June 11, 2024.

Rev. Ishaya Anthony's work has begun after a long study stint.

A few days after graduating from the World Council of Churches' Ecumenical Institute at Bossey with a Master of Advanced Studies in Ecumenical Studies, Ishaya Anthony will return to Africa, where he belongs to two communities.

On June 11, he graduated from the Master's program in Ecumenical Theology at the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey near Geneva, Switzerland.

"The first community is Nigeria, from the northern part of Nigeria, precisely from Kaduna state," says Anthony, who is part of the Anglican communion and a priest with the Church of Nigeria.

His second community is South Africa, where he is a postdoctoral research fellow.

His church and the Desmond Tutu Centre for Religion and Social Justice at the University of Western Cape in South Africa recommended him for Bossey.

At first, it's difficult for Anthony to find the words to describe his experience at the institute ringed by mountains and overlooking Lake Geneva, the largest freshwater lake in Europe,

"I like to say that Bossey is better experienced than explained," he said, referring to Bossey, which the Jura Mountains in France overlook.

Anthony's already planning to take his experience back home to Africa.

"In the context where I come from, especially Nigeria, we have a lot of people who are working for peaceful and social cohesion," he said. "I will collaborate with many people on the ground to contribute to inter-religious dialogue."

As he hopes and trusts God in how he will contribute, he is also considering reviving a journal by the Ecumenical Theologians in Nigeria titled "Ballentine of Ecumenical Theology." The last edition was in April 1990.

Nigeria is Africa's most populous nation, with nearly 229 million people.

RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP

He will also return to South Africa to continue his postdoctoral research fellowship in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Johannesburg.

"There is a need for students to have this ecumenical formation," he said. "It's good to get a theological perspective, both the theoretical and practical."

Ecumenism is familiar to the African continent, reflected Anthony. "It has been there even before Christianity came to Africa," he said. "It's a matter of reimagining ecumenists, and I think it's important to learn from the past history."

Though he plans to stay in touch with his graduating class, he will miss the quiet natural beauty surrounding Bossey. "Bossey offers the ability to be quiet and walk around the forest," he said.

"I will also miss the library because it's a unique place to learn about ecumenismand even beyond ecumenism."

He will miss the way his peers talk and laugh together.

"Also, my professors are very wonderful people," he said. "I give thanks to God for the privilege that someone like me can pass through this place," said Anthony

He recalls World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Jerry Pillay urging the students to become faithful ambassadors as they return home.

"So much has been invested in me that I pray God will enable me to be a faithful ambassador," said Anthony. "I also pray for God's direction in all that I do."
(Photo: Peter Kenny)The World Council of Churches in Geneva, Switzerland on April 5, 2019

The World Council of Churches says that its 11th assembly, originally planned for September 2021 in Karlsruhe, Germany, is postponed until 2022 due to the gravity and uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The WCC Assembly normally meets about every seven to eight years and it is the highest governing body of the ecumenical grouping of churches representing more than 500 million Christians worldwide.

"We hope that, by 2022, we will have more certainty and knowledge about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we hope that waiting to convene the assembly will mean fuller participation by all who want to walk, work, and pray together," said WCC moderator Agnes Abuom.

"This was a very difficult decision to make but we trust that it will be offset by the joy we will feel about being able to gather, together at last, in 2022."

The executive committee of the WCC said it made the decision in close consultation with the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), the umbrella for Lutheran and other Protestant churches and other host churches and local partners.

"The decision, announced on June 3, was made due to the gravity and uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with final dates still to be set.

RHINE-RIVER CITY

"It is hoped that an assembly in 2022 will provide a better opportunity to secure the full participation of the ecumenical fellowship. The location in the Rhine River city of Karlsruhe will remain the same," the WCC said.

The EKD, the Evangelical Church in Baden, Council of Churches in Germany, and other churches of various confessions in Germany, France, and Switzerland jointly invited the assembly to Karlsruhe.

The city of some 310,000 people is in a European region located near the French-German border.

The assembly will bring together 800 official delegates from the WCC's 350 member churches, and many other participants and visitors, all of whom will gather in prayer, and celebrate their fellowship.

The theme is "Christ's love moves the world to reconciliation and unity."

The WCC said the assembly theme will be reflected upon in the light of the dramatic global situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic will also have a significant impact on assembly planning in terms of program, logistics, and finances.

New dates for the assembly in the second half of 2022 are currently under discussion and will be decided upon together with the Karlsruhe exhibition center, Messe Karlsruhe.

The bulk of the WCC's founding churches were European and North American, today most member churches are in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, the Middle East and the Pacific.

A WCC has the task of determining the overall policies of the council and electing the WCC central committee, the main governing body between assemblies.

On June 3 the executive committee confirmed Rev. Ioan Sauca as interim WCC general secretary and he will hold the post until the WCC central committee meets in June 2021.

(Photo:  Peter Kenny) Rev. Ioan Sauca World Council of Churches interim general secretary in 2020, photographed on 4 November 2019.

Sauca, who is from the Orthodox Church in Romania, has been professor of Missiology and Ecumenical Theology at the WCC's Ecumenical Institute in Bossey since 1998 and its director since 2001. He has served as a WCC deputy general secretary since 2014.

Olav Fykse Tveit, who is now the presiding bishop of the (Lutheran) Church of Norway stepped down from his post as the WCC general secretary at the end of March 2020 after serving two terms in office.
MBABANE  Patients woes in public hospitals are far from over as doctors have resolved not to work at night and on weekends.

This shall be with effect from July 1, 2024, and it was a resolution taken following the omission of on-call and standby allowances. This is happening against the backdrop of a drug and medical supplies shortage in the country, which has grounded the public health sector. The shortage of drugs and medical supplies has seen patients, the public and nurses, protesting in an effort to coerce government to address the issue.

In addition to this challenge, patients who will seek emergency assistance in public health facilities on weekends and or at night, will not be assisted as the doctors will not attend to them, they said. There are over 300 on-call and standby medical personnel working in the countrys major hospitals, which are Mbabane Government Hospital, Hlatikhulu Government Hospital, Mankayane Government Hospital and Piggs Peak Government Hospital.Other healthcare workers who resolved not to work on weekends and at night are based at Mkhuzweni, Dvokolwako and Matsanjeni health centres. The on-call medical staff consists of doctors, theatre nurses, laboratory technicians, pharmacy, blood bank and biomed, among other cadres.

Payment

According to the healthcare professionals, it had come to their attention that the payment of on-call and standby allowances for the period of October 2023 to March 2024, would not be included in the June 2024 salaries, as per the norm. Following the omission of the on-call and standby allowances, the medical personnel vowed to stop attending to all patients who would require emergency services, until they were paid their monies in full.

In a notification that was delivered to the Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Health, Khanyakwezwe Mabuza, the on-call committee representing the healthcare professionals said; As instructed by all medical personnel participating in on-call and standby duties, hereby relay that payment of the on-call and standby allowances for the said period is still expected to be paid with the June 2024 monthly salary. Failure to honour the above will force all medical personnel to immediately cease all on-call and standby duties in all affected facilities on July 1, 2024.

Taxation

The medical personnel said they did not accept the omission of on-call and standby allowances. They stated that all other alternative payment arrangements explored in the past attracted higher taxation rates, which financially prejudiced the medical personnel significantly. They said staggered payments, omission of officers or other forms of delays, would force them to stop working until they are paid in full.

The resolution by the medical personnel comes after members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) had recommended that the Ministry of Health should remove the on-call allowances budget and divert it to the procurement of drugs. Making reference to the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital, PAC Vice Chairperson Manzi Zwane, who is also Nhlambeni MP, submitted that it was disheartening that government was paying so much to doctors for the on-call allowances, while patients were not attended to when the doctors had knocked off.

Substandard

The legislator added that there was no sense of urgency at the hospital, especially after 7pm, when the doctors had knocked off. This, he said, did not make sense for him to have an on-call allowances budget, when the service was not rendered. Govemment is paying these people, but we are not getting the service. EmaSwati are getting substandard health attention at the hospital, but a budget is reserved by government to pay the on-call allowances.

The ministry should cancel the budget for on-call allowances and divert same to the procurement of more drugs, the MP said. In response, the doctors said they did not take seriously the statement made by the PAC and were neither troubled by it. They said they were not going to entertain the statement, because there was nothing formal the ministry had said to them. This is not the first time the medical staff threaten to down tools over their on-call and standby allowances.

In December 2023, the medical personnel said they would not be available to be on-call and on standby, meaning they will work during the normal working hours. They argued that claims for the allowances were submitted about three months ago, but were still being processed by government, something that the health professionals viewed as a deliberate move to frustrate them.
Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, has issued a statement in support of efforts aiming to restrict the use of smartphones in schools within the state. As The New York Times reports, the governor aired his stance merely hours before board members at the Los Angeles Unified School District voted to pass a proposal for a school phone ban. Newsom said he will work with lawmakers "to restrict the use of smartphones during the school day" this summer, because children and teens "should be focused on their studies  not their screens."

The governor also mentioned and agreed with the US Surgeon General's op-ed published by The Times, wherein he said that social media platforms should be required to display warning labels from his office because they can significantly harm teenagers' mental health. In his piece, Vivek Murthy explained that the label "which requires congressional action, would regularly remind parents and adolescents that social media has not been proved safe."

Newsom said the rules he develops will build upon the directive he signed in 2019, which authorizes (but doesn't require) districts to adopt phone bans. If California does pass a law to ban the use of phone during school hours, it'll join Florida and Indiana in the list of states with similar legislation. Florida's schools are required to prevent their students from using their phones during class time, and some districts even require them to ban phone use until it's time for the students to go home. Other states are poised to follow suit. New York City designated social media as a public health hazard earlier this year, and Governor Kathy Hochul previously said that she would pursue phone restrictions for schools in the New York state next year.

While LA's board members ultimately passed the proposal for a phone ban, two members voted against it. One told The Times that he voted no because teachers are already having difficulties imposing existing restrictions in schools. Perhaps more importantly, he said that parents need to be able to contact their children during emergencies, like school shootings, echoing the concerns of parents who opposed phone bans in the past.
No Tech for Apartheid (NOTA), a coalition of tech workers demanding big tech companies to drop their contracts with the Israeli government, is close to reaching its goal for a campaign asking students not to work with Google and Amazon. As Wired reports, more than 1,100 people who identified themselves as STEM students and young workers have taken the pledge to refuse jobs from the companies "for powering Israel's Apartheid system and genocide against Palestinians." Based on its website, NOTA's goal is to gather 1,200 signatures for the campaign.

"As young people and students in STEM and beyond, we refuse to have any part in these horrific abuses. Were joining the #NoTechForApartheid campaign to demand Amazon and Google immediately end Project Nimbus," part of the pledge reads. Google and Amazon won a $1.2 billion contract under Project Nimbus to provide the Israeli government and military with cloud computing, machine learning and artificial intelligence services. A Google spokesperson previously denied that the company's Nimbus contract deals with "highly sensitive, classified or military workloads relevant to weapons or intelligence services."

As two of the biggest tech companies on the planet, Google and Amazon are also two of the biggest employees of STEM graduates. Wired says the campaign's pledgers include undergraduate and graduate students from Stanford, UC Berkeley, the University of San Francisco and San Francisco State University  institutions located in the same state as Google's HQ.

NOTA had also organized actions protesting tech companies' involvement with Israel in the past, including sit-ins and office takeovers that had led Google to fire dozens of workers. In March, one of its organizers was fired from Google after interrupting one of its executives at an Israeli tech conference in New York and loudly proclaiming that he refuses to "build technology that powers genocide or surveillance."
New Delhi, June 19 (UNI) The Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) youth and student wing staged a massive protest outside the residence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Wednesday, demanding the cancellation of the NEET exam and a thorough investigation by a committee headed by a retired judge.

During the protest led by AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha, the demonstrators demanded the minister's resignation on moral grounds and called for a re-examination to ensure equal opportunity for all students.

Emphasising the gravity of the issue, Jha asserted, Government is jeopardising the future of the nation's youth and pledged that AAP would continue its fight for justice from the streets to the Parliament. The NEET exam rigging has impacted thousands of students, prompting calls for the exam's cancellation and a thorough investigation by a committee headed by a retired judge.

The protestors were seen holding banners and posters with slogans related to the NEET scam in their hands. During this, the police forcibly stopped the students on the way and lathi-charged the students who were going to meet the Union Education Minister. The police also took many students into custody and took them to the police station.

The students raised slogans of Shame on the Education Minister, and Stop Commercialization of Education.

Speaking to the media, senior AAP leader and MLA Sanjeev Jha said, Today, through this state protest, we wanted to meet the Union Minister and ask him if there has been rigging in the NEET exam and there is evidence of this, then why is the exam not being cancelled after investigating it? What was the fault of the children for whom this was the last attempt in the NEET exam that they became victims of this paper leak?

We want a committee to be formed under the supervision of a retired Supreme Court judge to investigate the NEET exam scam so that the children who have given the exam can be assured that if they prepare on the merit list, their selection will be certain. We wanted to bring all these issues to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan today. But we were stopped by the police force, he added.

UNI PSP GNK
Vera Wang seems to have mastered the art of not looking her age.

On Tuesday, the 74-year-old fashion designer updated her social media followers with new photos of her posing by the pool. In the photos she captioned, "Coffee Break," she sported a white tank top, a denim mini skirt with silver tassels, white pumps, and she accessorized with a knit cap and a pair of dark sunglasses.

She also followed it up with a reel showing off her chill dance moves to Michael Jackson's "You Rock My World" while holding a mug of coffee.

Her followers and other users on the platform quickly commented on her seemingly ageless appearance.

"Always so beautiful," commented one Instagram user, prompting another to say, "So beautiful and so sexy."

"Perfect shot for a coffee break," wrote another person.

"I love your style, Vera! Enjoy your coffee break," remarked someone else.

"You are stunning," said a fifth IG user.

"Way too wonderful," a different person added.

Aside from not looking her age, social media users commented on the fashion icon's dance moves.

One person praised her, saying, "You've always been such a great dancer."

"I couldn't do that in heels," quipped another.

"She's got the moves," said a different commenter.

Actress Sharon Stone also left a comment on the reel, joking, "OK, now you're just showing off."

Just last month, Wang wowed her followers with her poolside photos wearing a white one-piece swimsuit.

"Some say that you can tell when a person is older by looking at their hands and neck. Lol yeah well hers tells me nothing except that she is a beautiful woman possibly in her twenties! Wow just wow!" commented one IG user at the time.



"Vera is goals," another fan said.

"You are aging backwards, sis," wrote a different commenter.

"Time bows down to you and stops moving," quipped someone else.

The wedding dress designer will be turning 75 on June 27.
Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Jewish funerals are different from the funerals of other faith traditions. In this Q&A with David Zinner, Chair of the Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE), he explains a new online tool to help people understand Jewish traditions around death, mourning and Jewish funerals.

What is Hineni and who created it?

The Hineni tool is designed to give succinct information about Jewish death practices. The word, Hineni, is the transliteration of a Hebrew phrase used in the Torah, meaning Here I am. It was chosen to indicate this tool is here to give succinct, direct answers to everyone quickly and easily.

The information presented applies to all levels of Jewish observance and is intended for general user learning. This tool is not an official dictum as to the application of Jewish law (halacha) nor does it indicate what is allowed or not allowed. Rather, it is an educational tool intended to help people understand Jewish end-of-life practices. Information presented in this tool was gleaned from many sources, specifically including those from many Jewish denominations.

The Hineni tool was developed by the Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE) staff as a part of ongoing community educational efforts to find the best ways to disseminate and share knowledge about Jewish end-of-life practices, rites, customs, and traditions.

Are there any statistics on the percentage of U.S. Jews who are unaware of Jewish funerals and mourning practices?

We are not aware of any formal statistics on this. But informally we hear from many funeral directors that a large percentage of Jewish customers are not familiar with traditional Jewish practices.

Who is Hineni designed for?

Hineni is intended to be used by four audiences:

Death professionals: those who work with members of the Jewish community when facing a death, such as funeral directors, cemetery workers, hospice personnel, Jewish clergy, chaplains, death doulas, and hospital personnel;

Families facing a death: those who need immediate information to make decisions about the care of a loved one after death;

Those doing advance planning: families who are making arrangements for a future death and who want to understand traditional Jewish practices;

Educators: those who teach Jewish practices in the community and who can use this tool as a teaching aid and as a resource for drashot for services, lectures, or classes, along with Chevrah Kadisha workers who want to expand their abilities to share these practices with their community.

What topics does Hineni address?

The Hineni tool presents topics along the continuum of events around the end of life. Each topic area includes the following information:

A succinct definition of the topic area

Four perspectives through which to understand the topic (practical, textual, emotional, and spiritual)  each of which displays a small paragraph of information

A longer article for deeper understanding that includes significant detail about each topic

All transliterated Hebrew words are italicized and highlighted  when hovered over the definition of the word or phrase is displayed in a small popup window  when the mouse is moved off the text, the popup disappears

The following topics are included:

Jewish Death Practices  an overview, the big picture

Preplanning for Death  an overview of whats involved in thinking ahead about death

Bikur Cholim  visiting those who are ill: comforting the sick and dying

Vidui  deathbed confession: who its for, whats it about

Shmirah  comforting the soul between death and burial; how its done, who its for

Taharah  respectful preparation of the body for burial; whats involved in this

Caskets and Garments  what is traditionally used for Jewish burial and why

Kriah  the tearing of garments as a sign of grief; how this is done today

Jewish Funeral  what is involved today

Jewish Mourning  big picture overview of Jewish mourning practices

Burial and Disposition  choices in todays world and traditional Jewish practices

Jewish Cemetery  what makes a cemetery Jewish, why it matters

Afterlife in Judaism  traditional views of the afterlife and how this is reflected in our rituals

Chevrah Kadisha  what this organization is and how it is involved in Jewish death practices

What are some elements of Jewish funerals and death topics that would surprise people?

It is surprising that Jewish practices around death teach us how to live.

Jewish death rituals are based on two profound values  kindness and respect  and are imbued with beauty, dignity, humility, and loving kindness. All of these teach us to treat the living with dignity, honor, and respect.

Is Jewish burial essentially green burial?

In todays world, there are many approaches to disposition after death, including traditional Jewish burial. The customary Jewish practices include many aspects of green burial, including no embalming, natural clothing, wooden caskets, and in-ground burial. However, many cemeteries require non-green aspects including concrete grave liners, that are not in accordance with natural practices.

What other things would you like people to know about Hineni?

It is intended to educate the large Jewish and non-Jewish population who do not understand the basics of Jewish end-of-life practices. It is free and available to everyone. It runs as a website, so it works on any device with a web browser.

This tool is accessible, easy to use, succinct in its presentation with access to deeper understandings, and includes audio reading of text, three sizes of text display, and light/dark display modes to present the information in the ways that users need it. It includes a simple help package and two ways to access the topic areas quickly.

The tool URL is: https://hineni.jadeinfo.org/

David Zinner holds or has held the following roles in Jewish death education and cemetery organizations:

Jewish Association for Death Education (JADE), Chair

Ben Zakkai Institute, Staff

Preservation and Rehabilitation Initiative for Neglected Cemetery Entities (PRINCE), Coordinator

Maryland State Advisory Council on Cemetery Operations, Consumer Representative

Jewish Funeral Practices Committee of Greater Washington, Vice President

Columbia Jewish Congregation (CJC), Chevrah Kadisha Chair

Kavod vNichum & the Gamliel Institute, Founding and Past Executive Director

Additional posts about Jewish funerals and related traditions are available on The Family Plot Blog.

Related
San Diego, CATwo pilots who lived in San Diego in July 1992, Bob Reiss and Dennis Stewart, are featured prominently in World Flight documentarian Michael B. Butler's new book, Round the World & Across Russia in 21 Days, 30 Years Later: 12 Planes & 22 Aviators Thru 11 Countries When the Soviet Union Fell & Russia Returned.

The reason they are featured is that Dennis Stewart's detailed flight journal is key to telling the full story of 12 small planes flying 18,000 miles around the world and thru Russia right after the final collapse of the Soviet Union. They left Santa Monica Airport on July 4, 1992 and made history by becoming the first private group to circumnavigate while crossing the entire landmass of Russia.

Flying in Reiss' single-engine Bonanza Jetprop, putting out 425 horsepower, Bob and Dennis were a valuable part of a group which included four other Bonanzas and a Beech Baron 58 plus five Cessnastwo twin-engine 421 Golden Eagles, a twin 340A, a twin turboprop King Air Super 200 and Citation I business jet, the latter two in lead and follow-up support roles.

Bob Reiss, then CEO of a major medical device company, and Stewart, a former U.S. Air Force pilot and air traffic controller, were vital to the success of the World Flight in a variety of ways. First, Reiss's experience as an army intel officer provided keen insight in the Russian manner of thinking in regards to World Flight air routing and flying around and over highly restricted military installations. Second, Dennis' experience as pilot and air controller gave the crews info on how to deal with Russian controllers along with the ins-and-outs of dated Russian radio aviation communication systems, or lack thereof.

Actually, Dennis Stewart is hugely responsible for the World Flight book even existing, for it was his effort in collating four major pilot journals, and distributing them to many participants, that led Michael B. Butler to realize it was the foundation for a book. The 2024 version, containing additional pilot journals and greatly expanded historical sections, is the second World Flight book, the first one came out in 1998 from Wind Canyon Books.

Currently available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and in audio book from Google Play, the author, who also documented the event, constructed the book using 7 major pilot journals, 5 ancillary journals, 25 hours of video tape, interviews and what he recalled. Details and color slide shows can be found at www.MichaelButlerBooks.com.

Official Round the World & Across Russia in 21 Days Book Trailer





Here are two excerpts from Dennis Stewart's journal used in Round the World & Across Russia in 21 Days, which covers how it got involved in this historic flight around the world.

Reiss and Stewart are the lone single to divert, Dennis Stewart's journal continues, "When it's clear, you see Greenland from about 100 nautical miles, out, as Bob and I approach it reveals itself as one of the splendors of the world. A long-rugged coast with icebergs in all the bays and inlets, many with the most intense aquamarine ponds and hollows where the ice is melting. The mountains along the shore and sticking out of the ice cap, which comes almost to the shore, are splendid. Glaciers are everywhere with the melting snows of July producing a number of waterfalls. Truly fascinating. We approach the coastline homing in on Narsarsuaq's ADF beacon, located at the end of three long parallel fjords stretching from the coast, but it is concealed behind a 3,000-foot mountain until you are right on it. I read our topographical chart and tell Bob, 'It's that one.' As we let down, he asks several times 'Are you sure?'

"I keep saying, 'Yes.' We make the final turn in the fjord and there it is, Narsarsuaq airfield, a barren place with 6,000 feet of runway met at the far end by the face of an enormous glacier, which is 150 feet higher than the approach end. The prudent airman will land uphill and then reverse the process, we land at 1237 local time, 1437 Zulu, after a four-hour flight."

Two aircraft diverted to Scotland, one was Reiss and Dennis Stewart in the single Bonanza Jetprop as Dennis relates, "We have a cold breakfast in the hotel. Outside there is light rain, low clouds, and cold. We depart with full tanks at 08:42 am, 0842 Zulu, cleared to Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Reykjavik Control vectors us out over the water so we can stay low and try to avoid icing.

"Climbing through the clouds we pick up some icing anyway, but it is not serious. We are cleared to 11,000 feet and are between cloud layers. We vary our requested altitude between 11,000 and 9.000 feet in an effort to stay clear of visible moisture. It is cold outside, -7 Centigrade, and we have no wing deicers. The forecast for Stornoway is solid overcast and rain. We pass through occasional cloud tops, each time picking up a little ice. The windshield has a light coat of ice that doesn't melt so we cannot see ahead. This makes steering around the clouds more difficult. We enter visible moisture once more. As he had done in the past, Bob reaches down and pulls on the propeller deicerthe prop-blade has electric elements running down the leading edge of each blade.

"Without warning our GPS fails! I punch all the proper buttons to make it reacquire the satellite signals but to no avail. Bob tries it also with the same results. We have a back-up GPS unit just in case something like this happens, it is battery powered with its own stubby antenna. Bob hauls it out, puts it on the instrument cowling and turns it on, same result, a blank screen. Bob looks at me and says, 'What do we do now?' I reply, 'We don't do anything, we're headed for Scotland'."

Media Contact: For review copies or interviews please contact Eric Blair Enterprises at MichaelButlerBooks@pm.me or 213-534-7292.
ED attaches property worth Rs 3 40 crore in J&K Grameen bank fraud case 10 Oct 2024 | 7:02 PM Srinagar, Oct 10 (UNI) Directorate of Enforcement (ED), has provisionally attached six immovable properties worth Rs.3.40 Crore in Jammu & Kashmir Grameen Bank (JKGB) fraud case, officials said on Thursday. see more..

Tconsult launches Royal Alliance to drive Global Innovation & Investment 10 Oct 2024 | 5:34 PM Hyderabad, Oct 10 (UNI) Tconsult and Queen Maria Leonora Torres of the Philippines have signed an exclusive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formally establish the Tconsult Royal Alliance for Global Innovation & Investment. see more..

Kottayam-Kochi Rubber Market Rates 10 Oct 2024 | 5:32 PM Kottayam, Oct 10 (UNI) Following were the Rubber Market rates announced by the Rubber Board here today per quintal. see more..

HYSEA sucessfully completes project Drona 10 Oct 2024 | 5:11 PM Hyderabad, Oct 10 (UNI) HYSEA (Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association) on Thursday announced the successful completion of the first cohort of its pioneering faculty development and enrichment program, Project Drona. see more..
The Central Valley fire district covers 200 square miles of land. As more people have moved into the area, the demand for services has grown.
MARTINS FERRY, Ohio  Martins Ferry City Council wants the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to clean up tons of illegal, radioactive fracking waste at the Austin Master Services wastewater treatment facility after the company failed to do so. They signed a petition created by the Concerned Ohio River Valley Residents at the councils last meeting on June 5.

Austin Master, a Pennsylvania-based wastewater treatment company, was ordered to suspend operations at its facility in Martins Ferry in March after ODNR discovered the company had exceeded its permit for brine waste.

Flooding has since occurred at the site, heightening concerns that the waste could leach out into nearby water sources. Most recently, a contempt hearing was held against the company in May after it failed to clean up the waste within a court-ordered deadline.

Were kinda at (the states) mercy, said Martins Ferry Mayor John Davies. The waste could contaminate the whole Ohio Valley and south of us, because if we have a major flood thats exactly whats gonna happen.

The petition

This spring, officials reported the facility was storing 10,000 tons of solid and liquid waste; the company was permitted to treat and store 600 tons. Waste was also being improperly stored in dumpsters and sludge and liquid waste was on the floors.

The facility is located 500 feet away from the Ohio River and 1,000 feet away from the City of Martin Ferrys drinking field, posing a serious threat to local and regional water sources.

In the petition, CORR ask ODNR not to approve any more permits for oil and gas waste storage in the area and to arrange a clean-up and environmental monitoring of the site immediately.

So far the petition has 66 signatures. It also describes the waste as an immediate threat with its proximity to water sources and location in a flood plain.

Martins Ferry City Council previously wrote a letter to ODNR in May asking for Austin Master to be removed from the facility and for the facility not to be re-permitted. They also sent the letter to state and federal officials.

Yet since then, Davies has seen little to no work done to remove the waste. The petition is another attempt by the council to push for a swift removal.

Bankrupt

Since Austin Master was ordered to suspend operations, a lawsuit was filed in the Belmont County Common Pleas Court by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost in March and the company was ordered to clean up the waste within 14 days; the company did not clean it up.

Most recently, a contempt hearing was held on May 20 and 21 against the state and Austin Master where the state addressed the companys failure to remove the waste within the deadline.

So far, two railcars filled with waste have been removed by a third party, employees cleaned liquid waste from the floors and a tank of liquid waste was removed by a brine hauler.

During the hearing, Austin Master argued that American Environmental Partners Inc.  the parent company of Austin Master  and CEO, Chief Financial Officer and Chairman of American Environmental Partners Inc., Brad J. Domitrovitsch, should not be held liable for the failure to clean up.

The company also has no money. Shortly after the company suspended operations, it laid off all of its employees; Domitrovitsch is the only employee left.

Belmont County Judge John Valvra ruled that both Austin Master and Domitrovitsch were responsible for the failure to clean up. He gave the company until July 22 to come into compliance with its permit or else Domitrovitsch will serve 30 days in jail and the company will be fined $200 a day.

Davies doesnt think the company will clean up the waste. When they said they dont have money to clean it up, what are you waiting for? Theyre not gonna get the money. Theyre out of business pretty much, Davies said.

He believes Austin Master and ODNR are looking for a buyer to clean up the waste. However, city officials and residents alike do not want the facility to be re-permitted. Davies wants the regulatory agency responsible for oversight, in this case ODNR, to clean up the waste.

Karina Cheung, a spokesperson for ODNR, said Austin Master Services is still responsible for cleaning up the waste. We expect to AMS to fulfill their legal obligation and clean the site. However, if they fail to do so, we stand ready to take action.

They added We are closely monitoring the facility and know that the waste has not left the facility. The legal proceedings are ongoing; therefore, we cannot comment on future permitting at this time.

(Liz Partsch can be reached at epartsch@farmanddairy.com or 330-337-3419.)
The Welsh government has shunned the sheep sector from its agricultural policy roundtable, with farm leaders calling the move 'disappointing'.

The National Sheep Association (NSA) has expressed its frustration at the Welsh governments failure to accept its request to join the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) roundtable.

The trade association, which represents the largest agricultural sector in Wales, said the decision was 'disappointing' as it 'further risks' the future of the sheep sector in the country.

It said it had made 'several requests' to the government to join it, which was set up to discuss Wales' controversial post-Brexit farming scheme, the SFS.

NSA chief executive, Phil Stocker said: It is extremely disappointing that the government has chosen to exclude NSA, the only organisation that solely represents the largest agricultural sector in Wales, from its discussions.

Collectively, the sheep and beef sector in Wales supports more than 223,000 jobs and Wales biggest employer  the food and drink supply chain  that is worth over 6 billion to the Welsh economy.

Not only this, but the sheep sector is by far the most accessible route into agriculture for new entrants and the next generation."

Mr Stocker said the refusal from the Welsh government to engage with sector indicated a 'severe lack of appetite to future proof' sheep producers.

Following last months announcement of a new timeframe for the introduction of the SFS, the roundtable aims to provide the next opportunity to work collectively on the design of the SFS after the recent consultation.

It currently has representation from the farming industry, the wider supply chain, and veterinary, nature, forestry and food sectors.

Wales' new cabinet secretary for rural affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, chaired the first meeting of the SFS roundtable on 6 June.

The NSA said it was in a 'unique position' having been involved in policy and future farming scheme development and to date had done its best to support the Welsh government in its work.

But Mr Stocker said: I am highly concerned that the level of our engagement since the new farming minister came into post has been zero.

"I am not at all confident that Welsh government is making use of farmers experiences from scheme development in other nations.

There is still no facilitation for tenants, new entrants, share and contract farming agreements, commons, cross border farms or graziers.

NSA welcomes conversations of the SFS given the problems the proposals have created, and although there are fundamental elements that risk the entire thing being unworkable NSA does believe there are some valuable aspects to the current scheme proposals.

The NSA said, following 'several request' to officials being met with no response, it would continue to raise the concerns of the sector even if these have to be via unofficial channels.

Given the importance of sheep farming in Wales I will still say its not too late and would welcome engagement from Welsh government, which sadly so far has been lacking, Mr Stocker concluded.
US, allies debating how strongly to commit to Ukraine's future in NATO at summit

Washington, June 19 (UNI) The United States and its allies have yet to reach a consensus on how strongly they are going to commit to Ukraine's NATO membership during the alliance's anniversary summit in July, CNN reported on Wednesday, citing US and European sources familiar with the matter.



Some European countries, particularly those close to Russia's border, are criticising the US for not being ready to go as far as they want, the report said.
Alec Baldwin has accused the prosecutors in his involuntary manslaughter case of "withholding information".

Alec Baldwin wants his case thrown out

The 66-year-old actor is set to face trial over the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins - who was fatally shot on the set of Western 'Rust' when a prop gun being held by the star discharged - but his legal team have filed a motion asking for the indictment to be dismissed due to New Mexico prosecutors' failure to "disclose" evidence to them in a timely manner.

According to a motion filed on Monday (17.06.23) and obtained by People magazine, Alec's lawyers claimed the state had been in possession of thousands of files, over "150,000 pages of documents" and dozens of gigabytes worth of data for months, and in some cases over a year, which contained critical evidence favourable to Baldwins defense that could have reshaped the way they had prepared for the trial if they had been disclosed earlier.

The motion argued the state had violated the former '30 Rock' star's constitutional rights under both New Mexico law and the landmark US Supreme Court ruling Brady v. Maryland, which determined that the prosecution must turn over to the defendant any evidence in its possession that suggests the defendant is not guilty.

The lawyers wrote: Whether the States misconduct was intentional or purported to be just careless, severe remedies are warranted."

They have asked judge Mary Marlow Sommer to dismiss the indictment or reduce the prejudice that the states misconduct has caused by precluding all of the testimony, evidence and argument related to the contention that Baldwin must have pulled the trigger.

Alec's lawyers want the judge to force the state to disclose its final witness list and "outstanding document productions", including answers to their client's questions relating to the investigation.

Last month, the judge denied a motion to dismiss the charge.

She ruled the court did not find that the jury had been improperly instructed, nor did the prosecution violate instruction of the grand jury judge.

Alec's lawyers had argued for the case to be dismissed due to destruction of evidence, and prosecutors failure to allege a criminal offense.

A hearing is scheduled to take place on 21 June, where the judge will also hear a motion from the state to compel 'Rust' armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed - who was previously sentenced to 18 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter in relation to Halyna's death - to testify during the trial.
Doja Cat is set to headline this year's Global Citizen Festival.

Doja Cat will perform at the festival

The 28-year-old star will perform on Central Parks Great Lawn on September 28, and Doja is looking forward to the event in New York City.

The 'Paint The Town Red' hitmaker shared: "Its been a few years since I was last on the Global Citizen Festival stage in Paris, and Im excited to join forces with Global Citizen once again in Central Park this September to drive as much action as we can to make the world a better place.

"We all have a part we can play to help end extreme poverty and stand up for equity. Im looking forward to being part of this major evening of positive change."

Global Citizen is on a mission to end extreme poverty, and the festival organisers hope to encourage people to demand change from governments and private sector leaders.

Other big-name performers at the upcoming event include Post Malone and Jelly Roll, while Global Citizen Ambassador Hugh Jackman will host the festival.

The 55-year-old actor is already looking forward to the event.

Hugh - who is perhaps best known for playing Wolverine in the 'X-Men' film series - said: "As a longtime supporter of Global Citizen and its mission, I am thrilled to be returning as host of the Global Citizen Festival this fall.

"For over a decade, Global Citizen has driven life-saving impact for nearly 1.3 billion people around the world, and well gather once again on September 28 to help end extreme poverty, defend the planet, and demand equity.

"I cant wait to see you all on Central Parks Great Lawn to collectively call for change on behalf of the worlds most vulnerable communities."
Justin Timberlake claimed he had "one martini" after being arrested for driving while intoxicated.

Justin Timberlake has been given a court date

The 43-year-old pop star told his arresting officer that he'd only had one drink, after he was pulled over by the police in Sag Harbor, New York in the early hours of Tuesday (18.06.24).

According to documents seen by PEOPLE, Timberlake told the authorities: "I had one martini and I followed my friends home."

In the report, it's claimed that the pop star drove through a stop sign, and that he failed to "keep on the right side of the roadway".

The arresting officer observed that Timberlake's eyes were "bloodshot and glassy, a strong odour of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his breath, he was unable to divide attention, he had slowed speech, he was unsteady afoot, and he performed poorly on all standardised field sobriety tests".

After being taken to a police station, the report was read aloud to Timberlake.

He responded: "No, Im not doing a chemical test."

After being read the report two more times, he replied: "I refuse [to take a chemical test]."

The pop star has been charged with one count of driving while intoxicated. He's also received two citations - one for running a stop sign and another for failure to keep in lane.

Timberlake has now been released, after he was held overnight for arraignment. The award-winning star is due back in court on July 26.

Timberlake enjoyed a a meal with friends in The Hamptons before he was a arrested.

A source told DailyMail.com: "Justin was out to dinner with friends and there were cop cars stationed outside the restaurant, like there are most nights.

"They look for people who are leaving after midnight who might have been drinking.

"Justin left at 12:30am and was pulled over as soon as he left. Nobody was hurt and there was no drama at the scene."
Matthew McConaughey almost left Hollywood for good after getting typecast following his rom-com years.

Matthew McConaughey almost left acting after being typecast in rom-coms

The Failure to Launch star took two years off from the glitz and the glamour of acting when he felt he wasnt getting enough meaty parts, before returning to star in more dramatic roles like The Lincoln Lawyer, True Detective, and his Academy Award-winning turn in The Dallas Buyers Club.

The 54-year-old actor told actor Glen Powell, 35, for Interview magazine: Ive usually zigged when I felt like Hollywood wanted me to zag.

"When I had my rom-com years, there was only so much bandwidth I could give to those, and those were some solid hits for me. But I wanted to try some other stuff. Of course I wasnt getting it, so I had to leave Hollywood for two years.

Matthew described the decision as scary, and he heavily relied on the support of his wife Camila Alves, 41, with whom he has kids Levi, 15, Vida, 14, and Livingston, 11.

He added: Dude, it was scary. I had long talks with my wife about needing to find a new vocation. I think Im going to teach high school classes. I think Im going to study to be a conductor. I think Im going to go be a wildlife guide'.

"I honestly thought, I stepped out of Hollywood. I got out of my lane. The lane Hollywood said I should stay in, and Hollywoods like, Well, f*** you, dude. You should have stayed in your lane. Later.

Matthew also reminisced about his first big success, the 1996 Joe Schumacher legal drama A Time To Kill, and how it impacted his career.

He said: For me, going back to A Time to Kill, after I first had a big success in a major studio picture and became famous, I remembered that the Thursday before that movie opened, theres 100 scripts out there that I wouldve done, and 99 of them I could not book.

"Over that one weekend, 99 noes became 99 yeses. I was like, What? Three days ago, Id have done any of these! And now youre asking me which one I want to do? It was a hell of a shocking thing.

"I chucked on a backpack and went to Peru for three weeks just so I could hear myself think.. Have you had to go, I wouldve done any of these roles, but now Ive got to be discerning?

"Ive had similar runs where Ive said no to things, where Im like, Am I being too safe, or am I ferociously chasing what I want? Because sometimes you can get paralyzed in the nos. Ive had plenty of times in my career where Im like, I dont know what I want to do, I just know I dont want to do that.
William, Prince of Wales told Kevin Costner his mum Princess Diana had a secret crush on him.

Prince William told Kevin Costner about his mum's secret crush

'The Bodyguard' actor has revealed he was invited to meet the royal during a trip to the UK and during their chat, William opened up about his late mum Diana, Princess of Wales and told the movie star about his mother's feelings for him.

Costner told PEOPLE: "'I've never talked about this. But I can because of how I very much respect him, but I think it's a story worthwhile about him ...

"I happened to be in England, and I got this message that the prince would love to talk, and I said, 'What?'... and then I went, 'Okay' ...

"We met in this room where the chairs were still stacked on chairs. I'm sure there was somebody [waiting outside] but it was just someone I met. There was nobody else.

"We met in this room, and it was just us. He walked up, and we shook hands ... The first line out of his mouth was, 'You know, my mom kind of fancied you'."

Costner then replied: "I know".

He added of William: "I'll never say what we talked about, but it was a very sweet thing. And we just chatted and we both broke away. And we never became pen pals or did anything like that. But I've had such fond memories of who he was, how I was approached, and what we talked about."

Costner had dealings with the princess prior to her death in a car crash in Paris in 1997 as he consulted her over a possible sequel to his 1992 film 'The Bodyguard' in which he played a man hired to protect a pop star, played by Whitney Houston.

The actor revealed he was put in touch with Diana by her then sister-in-law Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York.

He told the magazine: "I was going to make a second one of 'Bodyguard'. There was a moment that that was really flying down the tracks, very quietly, because it's how I operate. I really keep things to myself ...

"'That's why when when it finally emerged that Princess Diana was going to maybe do that, we talked. It was so sweet.

"Sarah was the one that set this up. Sarah was very cool ... when she could have been going, 'Well, Im a princess too. What about me?' She didnt do that at all.

"She was going, 'No I'm going to make this happen, Kev'. And she did. I always respected her that she never inserted herself."
If you own your body, you own your life, says Andrea Rogers, fitness entrepreneur and BODi Super Trainer. If you do the hard thing in the studio or press play on that online workout, you can do hard things in other areas of your life. Rogers inspires this positive feedback loop of life-changing energy through her own brand of exercise called Xtend Barre.

A dynamic combination of Pilates and dance, Xtend Barre is designed to empower women and strengthen both their physical and mental health. My goal in life is for women to feel the natural badass-ery they all have! Rogers says. Everyone walks away from my workouts feeling more confident and that confidence trickles into other elements of their everyday lives.

Just press play is Rogers motto. It speaks to that first step that we all need to take. Whether its pressing play on the exercise video, joining the gym or getting outside for some movement, that first step is the crucial one that will change your life. We are all under the assumption that motivation is something that should just be present without effort, she explains.

But it is not automatic. Most days it requires a level of dedication to do that first thing. Just press play. Just press the button. Get moving. Even if you only do it for five minutes at first, thats great, but just press play. This first step begins the motivation cycle because the rewards of feeling good inspire you to do it again next time. Once its a pattern, the results themselves become more motivation so then youre on a roll.

Once you press play, youre going to be proud of yourself, says Rogers. Start with tiny steps and before you know it, you wont be procrastinating in your work or personal life any more. You will know that you just have to do that hard or boring thing to get rewards, it is the same thing as pressing play on movement!

Xtend Barre Pilates

Rogers appreciates the effort it takes to just press play and overcome any mental obstacles to working out. It takes a lot of guts, she says. We all know how intimidating it is to walk into a gym or a studio or even to press play on a workout at home. Thats why I am always celebrating the women in my classes just for being there. That is the first step.

To help start your fitness journey, Rogers advises finding an exercise your body enjoys. There is no point doing something just because a celebrity mentioned it, she says. To become a sustainable habit, you need to enjoy your workouts. They have to feel good on your body and I always encourage every individual to find the type of workout that makes them feel good.

This approach perfectly suits Rogers position as a Super Trainer at BODi, a fitness and nutrition community that offers over 125 programs with different workouts. Rogers charismatic blend of encouragement and celebration obviously makes her clients feel good. Her goal with every workout is to make them feel like they belong.

We are embracing the challenge and engaging in the journey, she says. Its about progress, not perfection. Every little win should be celebrated and thats what Im here for. Every workout is another building block of confidence that will transform your life.

This life-changing energy is now consolidated in Rogers international retreats. Over 50% of people on each retreat are repeat visitors, she says. Every group is made of incredible, like-minded women who come to the program at all types of ability level. The atmosphere is so welcoming and its a very bonding experience.

Going on a wellness retreat is out of the comfort zone for many, but that is what each workout challenges you to do. Every time you press play, you are one step closer to the life you want, says Rogers. No task is a small task. No victory is a small victory. Whether its 1 push-up or 100 push-ups, it takes the same type of resilience and willpower and mindset to execute.

Coming from Michigan, Rogers likes to apply the Midwestern approach of personal connection to her program. We take time to get to know each other sincerely and authentically, she says. I wanted to embed that ethos into Xtend Barre so everyone who walks in our studios or attends an online class feels that sense of belonging and community."

Regarding the type of exercise that Rogers favours, she says, Pilates is effective and long standing. People can do these workouts for their entire life, through all phases of life, and they are going to remain, in the most part, injury-free. All of those categories of strength, stability, stamina, and stretch increase. They're going to feel better. They're going to know how to breathe better and their posture improves. So just press play!

To find out more about Andrea Rogers and the Xtend Barre program, you can check out her website and follow her on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Explore program options to optimize your fitness at BODi.
The Netherlands emerged as the third-largest market for Indias merchandise exports. However, it ranked sixth as India's top garment export market. During the first quarter of the current year, Indias garment exports to the Netherlands were valued at $208.841 million, which accounted for 4.76 per cent of the total shipment.

According to Fibre2Fashion's market insight tool TexPro, India exported apparel worth $4,391.230 million during January-March 2024. The United States, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Germany, and Spain were ahead of the Netherlands in this trade.

The Netherlands became the third-largest market for India's merchandise exports but ranked sixth for garment exports. In Q1 2024, India's garment exports to the Netherlands were $208.841 million, 4.76 per cent of total shipments. India's apparel exports during January-March 2024 were $4.391 billion, with the Netherlands importing $3.852 billion.

Indias garment exports to the Netherlands were 25.55 per cent higher than the $166.346 million shipment in the corresponding period last year. The Netherlands share was 4.07 per cent of Indias total garment exports of $14.478 billion in 2023, when the shipment to the partner country was valued at $589.709 million. The Netherlands stood in sixth place in this trade last year.

As per TexPro, India has improved its ranking to sixth position among the Netherlands' top ten garment suppliers during the first quarter of this year. The Netherlands imported garments worth $3.852 billion during this period. Indias share was 3.96 per cent of the Netherlands' total garment imports in the same period.

Last year, India was ranked as the ninth-largest supplier in the Netherlands' total apparel imports, which were valued at $18.621 billion. Indias share was 3.23 per cent of the total garment imports.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
Brazilian cotton exports in June are on track to hit a record high, buoyed by strong international demand and attractive export prices, as per the Centre for Advanced Studies on Applied Economics (CEPEA).

Data from Secretariat of Foreign Trade at the Ministry of Economy (SECEX/ME) reveals that Brazil has already exported 50.34 thousand tons of cotton in the first five producing days of June. This figure is close to the total exports for the entire month of June 2023, which stood at 60.3 thousand tons.

Brazilian cotton exports in June are set to reach a record high, driven by strong international demand and favourable export prices. Data from SECEX shows Brazil exported 50.34 thousand tons of cotton in the first 5 days of June. The daily export average surged to 10.07 thousand tons. If this rate continues, June's total exports could hit 200 thousand tons.

The daily export average has surged to 10.07 thousand tons, a significant increase from the 2.87 thousand tons per day recorded in June last year, marking a rise of 250.5 per cent. Should this export rate continue, June's total cotton exports are projected to reach 200 thousand tons, setting a new record for the month, CEPEA said in its latest fortnightly report on the Brazilian cotton market.

From August 2023 to mid-June 2024, Brazil has shipped 2.4 million tons of cotton, reflecting a 65.8 per cent increase compared to the same period in the previous season, which saw 1.45 million tons exported.

The domestic market also saw considerable activity in early June, with many players sustaining prices. While some buyers are willing to pay higher prices for premium quality cotton, others continue to negotiate for lower prices. Sellers, for the most part, remained firm on their pricing, though a few were more flexible due to international market fluctuations.

Between May 31 and June 14, the CEPEA/ESALQ cotton Index, with payment due in eight days, dipped slightly by 0.27 per cent, closing at BRL 3.8917 (~$0.72) per pound on June 17.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)
Commonwealth essay winners receive awards

The Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joseph Garcia presented awards to the four students who won the traditional Commonwealth essay competition organised by the Government.

There are 1.5 billion people aged between 15 and 29 who live in Commonwealth countries, indeed more than 60% of the population of the Commonwealth are under the age of 30.

The Government has been keen to create awareness of the Commonwealth among young people in Gibraltar, and has sent delegates to the Commonwealth Youth Parliament and the Commonwealth Youth Forum.

The title of the latest essay competition was Why is the Commonwealth important to Gibraltar? and participants were asked to make a 500 word contribution. The essays touched on areas like trade, finance, sport (Commonwealth Games) and common values, traditions and history. They also mentioned the impact of Brexit and the principle of self-determination.

The winners in each category were:

 Noah Trinidad  Lower Primary  Notre Dame School

 Luca Trinidad  Upper Primary  St Annes School

 Krishaa Lakhiani  Secondary  Bayside School

 Karim Acolina  University  University of Gibraltar

The Deputy Chief Minister, who is the Minister with responsibility for relations with the Commonwealth, met with all the winners and discussed their essays with them.

The essays were judged by the young people of the Commonwealth Youth Association and the Government says it is very grateful to them and to all those who took part.
Hourly labour costs rose significantly in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, with the euro area experiencing a 5.1 per cent increase and the European Union (EU) seeing a 5.5 per cent rise compared to the same quarter of the previous year, according to Eurostat, the statistical office of the EU.

The two main components of labour costs, wages & salaries and non-wage costs, both contributed to this increase. In the euro area, hourly wages & salaries increased by 5.3 per cent, while the non-wage component rose by 4.5 per cent. Similarly, in the EU, hourly wages & salaries grew by 5.8 per cent, with the non-wage component increasing by 4.8 per cent.

Breaking down the figures further, hourly labour costs in the euro area saw a 5.3 per cent rise in the mainly non-business economy and a 5 per cent increase in the business economy. The industry sector saw a 4.8 per cent increase in hourly labour costs, as per Eurostat.

In the EU, the non-business economy experienced a 5.6 per cent rise in hourly labour costs, while the business economy saw a 5.5 per cent increase. In the industry sector, hourly labour costs rose by 5.5 per cent.

Notably, the highest increases in hourly wage costs for the whole economy were recorded in several EU Member States. Romania led with a 16.4 per cent increase, followed by Bulgaria at 15.8 per cent, Croatia at 15.3 per cent, Poland at 14.1 per cent, and Hungary at 13.7 per cent. Latvia and Lithuania also reported significant increases, with 12.7 per cent and 11.1 per cent respectively.

In Q1 2024, hourly labour costs rose significantly, with the euro area experiencing a 5.1 per cent increase and the EU seeing a 5.5 per cent rise, driven by higher wages and non-wage costs, according to Eurostat. Romania led with a 16.4 per cent increase. The industry sector and both business and non-business economies contributed to these increases.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Gold Mountain Mining Corp. ("Gold Mountain" or the "Company") (TSX:GMTN)(OTCQB:GMTNF)(FRA:5XFA) is pleased to announce the closing of its debt settlement transactions (the "Debt Settlements") previously announced on June 3, 2024, pursuant to which the Company settled all of the secured debt of Nhwelmen Construction Limited Partnership ("Nhwelmen"), who was owed $6.5 million (the "Nhwelmen Secured Debt").

Nhwelmen, the contract miner at the Company's Elk Gold Mine, was issued 50,000,000 common shares of the Company in payment of $1.5 million of the Nhwelmen Secured Debt at an issuance price of $0.03 per share, which was at a discount to the market price, and a convertible secured debenture (the "Convertible Debenture") in the amount of $5 million which represented the remaining amount of the Nhwelmen Secured Debt. The Convertible Debenture is convertible at Nhwelmen's option into 62,500,000 common shares at a conversion price of $0.08 per share. The Convertible Debenture matures four (4) years from the date of issuance and accrues interest at the rate of 12.0% per annum, calculated monthly and payable in cash in arrears on each anniversary date from the date of issuance. The Convertible Debentures may be prepaid in whole or in part, at the option of the Company. The Convertible Debenture is secured by a second-priority security interest over all of the assets of the Company including its current and after-acquired property and the security for the Convertible Debenture will continue to be evidenced by the general security agreement dated effective March 10, 2024 between the Company and Nhwelmen.

The Company has also closed on Debt Settlements with certain unsecured vendors who provide critical services to the Company. These unsecured vendors have agreed to convert $1,700,660 of unsecured debt for settlement of such debts in payment of a total of 56,688,667 common shares of the Company at the issuance price of $0.03 per share, which is at a discount to the market price.

The maximum number of securities issued, assuming the conversion of the Convertible Debenture, is 169,188,667 common shares representing 24.63% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company on a non-diluted basis. All of the transactions noted above were negotiated at arm's length and there will be no effect on control.

The Debt Settlement remains subject to the final acceptance of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Insider Participation

As previously disclosed in the June 3, 2024 press release, Nhwelmen held 166,666,667 common shares of the Company prior to the closing of the Debt Settlements, which represented approximately 24.26% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company. Therefore, Nhwelmen is an "insider" of the Company for purposes of the TSX Company Manual and a "related party" of the Company pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). Assuming full conversion of the Convertible Debenture, Nhwelmen will own 279,166,667 common shares representing 35.18% of the Company's common shares, on a non-diluted basis.

The Nhewlmen Debt Settlement and issuance of the Convertible Debenture to Nhwelmen are "related party transactions" within the meaning of MI 61-101. The Company's Special Committee (as defined below) determined that the Company meets the financial hardship requirements of Section 5.5(g) and Section 5.7(1)(e) of MI 61-101, respectively, the Nhwelmen Debt Settlement and Convertible Debenture are designed to improve the financial position of the Company, and the terms of such transactions are reasonable in the circumstances of the Company.

Special Committee

A special committee of the board of directors of the Company (the "Special Committee") was constituted and considered the fairness of the Nhwelmen Debt Settlement and Convertible Debenture and related matters. The Special Committee was comprised of the independent directors. The Special Committee determined that the Nhwelmen Debt Settlement and Convertible Debenture were reasonable for the Company in the circumstances and recommended that the Company proceed with the Nhwelmen Debt Settlement and Convertible Debenture.

Security Holder Approval

Pursuant to Section 604(a)(ii) and Section 607(g)(ii) of the TSX Company Manual, as the Company provided consideration to Nhwelmen, a current insider of the Company, in aggregate of 10% or greater of the market capitalization of the Company during a six-month period, the TSX required and the Company obtained security holder approval with respect to the Nhwelmen Debt Settlement and the issuance of the Convertible Debenture. Instead of seeking security holder approval at a duly called meeting of security holders, the TSX permitted the Company, pursuant to section 604(d) of the TSX Company Manual, to provide written evidence from more than 50% of the voting securities of the Company held by disinterested shareholders who are familiar with the terms of the transactions. The vote of the disinterested shareholders excluded the 166,666,667 common shares of the Company held by Nhwelmen which represented approximately 24.26% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company.

Early Warning Disclosure

Nhwelmen is providing the following additional information pursuant to the early warning requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws.

Prior to the Debt Settlements and issuance of the Convertible Debenture, Nhwelmen owned an aggregate of 166,666,667 Common Shares, representing approximately 24.26% of the issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted basis. Following the Debt Settlements and assuming full conversion of the Convertible Debenture, Nhwelmen will own an aggregate of 279,166,667 common shares representing 35.18% of the Company's common shares, on a non-diluted basis.

The securities above are held by Nhwelmen for investment purposes. Nhwelmen has a long-term view of the investment and may acquire additional securities of the Company including on the open market or through private acquisitions or sell securities of the Company including on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions, reformulation of plans and/or other factors that Nhwelmen considers relevant from time to time.

A copy of the early warning report for Nhwelmen will appear on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements thereunder.

About Gold Mountain

Gold Mountain is a British Columbia based gold and silver production, exploration and development company focused on the development of the Elk Gold Mine, a producing mine located 57 kilometers from Merritt in South Central British Columbia. Additional information is available at www.sedar.com or on the Company's new website at www.gold-mountain.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Gold Mountain Mining Corp.

Calvin Cheung, CFO

Email: cc@gold-mountain.ca

Website: www.gold-mountain.ca

Twitter: www.twitter.com/goldmtnmine

Forward Looking Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation regarding final approval of the Debt Settlement and Convertible Debenture, the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern, the impact of the Debt Settlement on the Company and the results thereof, including that it will allow the Company to address its significant working capital deficiency and provide operating capital to the Company so that it can go forward as a viable going concern, receipt of the final TSX approval, elimination of future interest payments and the ability for the Company to restart the mine, thereby significantly improving the Company's financial situation. Forward-looking statements include statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release and are not purely historical including any information relating to statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future and often, but not always, use words or phrases such as "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "estimates" or "intends", or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; the price of gold; and the results of current exploration. 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. Gold Mountain 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.

The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this News Release.

SOURCE: Gold Mountain Mining Corp

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - June 18, 2024) - Copper Fox Metals Inc. (TSXV: CUU) (OTCQX: CPFXF) ("Copper Fox" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its unaudited interim consolidated April 30, 2024, financial statements have been filed on SEDAR+.

For the six months ended April 30, 2024, Copper Fox had a net loss of $533,545 (April 30, 2023 - $533,608) which equated to $0.00 loss per share (April 30, 2023 - $0.00 loss per share).

During the six months ended April 30, 2024, the Company incurred $620,331 in exploration expenditures primarily furthering the development of the Van Dyke (Globe-Miami Mining District, AZ), Mineral Mountain (Mineral Mountain Mining District, AZ), Sombrero Butte (Bunker Hill Mining District, AZ) and Eaglehead (Liard Mining District, BC) copper projects. Copies of the financial statements, notes, and related management discussion and analysis may be obtained on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, the Company's web site at www.copperfoxmetals.com or by contacting the Company directly. All references to planned activities and technical information contained in this news release have been previously announced by way of news releases. All amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise stated.

Elmer B. Stewart, President and CEO of Copper Fox stated, "During the Quarter, the Company continued to advance the Van Dyke project toward the prefeasibility study ('PFS') stage and finalized the scope and scale of the permitting process with the Bureau of Land Management ('BLM') to obtain the permits to complete a "maiden" drilling program on the Mineral Mountain porphyry copper project in Arizona. Preliminary results for Sombrero Butte yielded positive results that further support our interpretation of the presence of a large copper porphyry system. The exploration permit at our Eaglehead project was extended by two years and the final payment on the promissory note to District Copper Corp. was completed.

At Schaft Creek, the Schaft Creek Joint Venture ('SCJV') is embarking on the most comprehensive annual program since formation of the joint venture, budgeted at $18.7 million. The focus of the current program is to position the project to progress toward the start of a PFS. The 2023 geotechnical investigation recommended additional data collection and studies to better assess pit slope conditions ahead of updating the current open pit design. Preliminary indications from the metallurgical program are that the grinding and metal recovery projections are encouraging, completion of these studies are necessary to define metallurgical performance and optimize the overall processing flowsheet."

2024 Q2 Highlights

On February 29, 2024, the Company announced the 2024 program and budget for the Schaft Creek project approved by the SCJV. The focus of the 2024 program is: Advance the key project parameters to transition the project from Scoping to PFS stage by the end of 2024 or early 2025. Planned expenditures are $18.7 million to be fully funded by Teck. Technical Activities: Completion of the metallurgical testwork program currently underway. 4,500m of drilling focused on key technical areas including the Highwall, Tailing Storage Facility ('TSF'), and Rock Storage Facility ('RSF').



Engineering Studies: Site wide geotechnical and facilities assessment of the TSF, RSF and proposed infrastructure. Update access road alignment. Update construction timeline. Updates to the Resource, Geologic, Structural and Slope Stability Models.



Continue the Environmental Baseline data collection program initiated in 2023 and strengthen collaboration and engagement with the Tahltan Nation.

On March 22, 2024, the Company announced that it retained Mr. Fidel Ricardo Montagu Thomas to provide investor relations services for an initial period of six months. The Company has the option to renew the agreement for an additional one year subject to the terms of the service agreement.

On March 25, 2024, the Company announced the appointment of Mr. Manuel Gomez Rubio as an additional director of the Company until the next annual general meeting of shareholders. Mr. Gomez holds a Bachelor of Accounting degree from Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey in Mexico and an MBA from City University in Zurich, Switzerland. Mr. Gomez has held positions of Fund Manager with United Bank of Switzerland ('UBS'), and Senior Vice President with Credit Suisse Group.

On March 27, 2024; the Company provided an update on its 100% owned Van Dyke in-situ copper recovery ('ISCR') project. Highlights included: Installation of the vibrating wire piezometers ('VWP') and data recorder in drillhole M-3 was completed and daily recording of hydrogeological data commenced mid-March. Four stations are now recording hydrogeological data. Analysis of the formational waters from the Gila Conglomerate collected during the drillhole rehabilitation program returned concentrations of metals, anions, and cations well below acceptable limits established by the Environmental Protection Agency ('EPA'). Laboratory strength testing of samples of the Gila Conglomerate is nearing completion with preliminary results expected mid-April. Chemical analyses of the pregnant leach solution ('PLS') from the mineralogical and solubility testwork completed in late 2023 and early 2024 is planned.



On April 11, 2024, the Company provided an update on its 100% owned Mineral Mountain porphyry copper project. Highlights included: Three distinct areas of higher positive chargeability located within a larger 18 milliradians (mrad') chargeability anomaly have been identified. These areas of higher chargeability are interpreted to represent three potential porphyry copper centers. Target #1, located in the central portion of the property, has been discussed in several previous news releases. Targets #2 and #3 are located northeast and southwest of Target #1 respectively. The Plan of Operations submitted to the BLM contemplates drill testing the chargeability signature of Target #1 and Target #2, each with a 1,000-meter-deep hole. An Environmental Review ('ER') as required pursuant to the National Environmental Protection Act ('NEPA'), and Solicitation of Public Comments on the Plan of Operations must be completed prior to receiving a final decision from the BLM on the drilling permit. SWCA has been retained to assist Copper Fox to determine the scope and scale of the ER in conjunction with the BLM.



On April 22, 2024, the Company announced that the final installment payment of $330,000 related to the purchase of the Eaglehead project from District Copper Corp. was completed.

Subsequent to the Quarter-end

On May 14, 2024. the Company announced that that management was unaware of any material change in the Company's operations that would account for the recent increase in market activity.

On May 22, 2024, the Company provided an update on the application to obtain a permit to conduct drilling operations at its 100% owned exploration stage Mineral Mountain porphyry copper property.

On May 30, 2024, the Company provided an update on its 100% owned Sombrero Butte project which included planning a deep penetrating geophysical survey to define the size and the chargeability anomalies underlying Target # 1 and #2.

On June 18, 2024, the Company announced that the 2024 field program at the Schaft Creek project is underway.

Elmer B. Stewart, MSc. P. Geol., President of Copper Fox, is the Company's non-independent, nominated Qualified Person pursuant to National Instrument 43-101, Standards for Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and has reviewed and approves the scientific and technical information disclosed in this news release.

Selected Financial Results





3 Months Ended



3 Months Ended



3 Months Ended



3 Months Ended



January 31, 2024



January 31, 2024



October 31, 2023



July 31, 2023

Loss before taxes $ 302,668

$ 230,877

$ 232,117

$ 348,787

Net loss

302,668



230,877



232,117



348,787

Comprehensive (gain) / loss

(167,103 )

905,445



(602,417 )

870,509

Comprehensive loss per share,

basic and diluted 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00





































3 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 3 Months Ended



April 30, 2023 January 31, 2023 October 31, 2022 July 31, 2022 Loss before taxes $ 254,018

$ 279,590

$ 461,137

$ 277,827

Net loss

254,018



279,590



401,137



277,827

Comprehensive (gain) / loss

(43,966 )

563,026



(668,062 )

832,007

Comprehensive loss per share,

basic and diluted 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

Liquidity

As at April 30, 2024, the Company's cash position was $174,966 (October 31, 2023 - $1,368,852).

About Copper Fox

Copper Fox is a Tier 1 Canadian resource company focused on copper exploration and development in Canada and the United States. The principal assets of Copper Fox and its wholly owned Canadian and United States subsidiaries, being Northern Fox Copper Inc. and Desert Fox Copper Inc., are the 25% interest in the Schaft Creek Joint Venture with Teck Resources Limited on the Schaft Creek copper-gold-molybdenum-silver project located in northwestern British Columbia and the 100% ownership of the Van Dyke oxide copper project located in Miami, Arizona. For more information on Copper Fox's other mineral properties and investments visit the Company's website at www.copperfoxmetals.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Elmer B. Stewart

President and Chief Executive Officer

For additional information please contact:

Fidel Montegu at 1-844-464-2820 or investor@copperfoxmetals.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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and forward-looking information within the meaning of the Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking information"). Forward-looking information in this news release include statements about; advancing the Van Dyke towards the PFS stage; obtaining permits for a "maiden" drilling program at Mineral Mountain; interpretation of a buried copper porphyry system at Sombrero Butte; and progressing the Schaft Creek project towards the start of a PFS.

In connection with the forward-looking information contained in this news release, Copper Fox and its subsidiaries have made numerous assumptions regarding, among other things: the geological, financial, and economic advice that Copper Fox has received is reliable and is based upon practices and methodologies which are consistent with industry standards; that the mineral reserve and resources estimates and the key assumptions and parameters on which such estimates are based are reasonable; the costs and results of planned exploration activities are as anticipated; and the stability of economic and market conditions. While Copper Fox considers these assumptions to be reasonable, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies.

Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause Copper Fox's actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. Known risk factors include, the 2024 work programs may not be completed as planned or at all; the budgets may be underestimated; exploration permits may not be received; key data collection may not provide the information required to enter the permitting stage; the overall economy may deteriorate; uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; copper prices and demand may fluctuate; currency exchange rates may fluctuate; conditions in the financial markets may deteriorate; trading prices of the Company's common shares may decrease below the exercise price of any outstanding warrants of the Company; and uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals.

A more complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties facing Copper Fox is disclosed in Copper Fox's continuous disclosure filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities at www.sedarplus.ca. All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and Copper Fox disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events, or developments, except as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213533

SOURCE: Copper Fox Metals Inc.
Trans Canada Gold Corp. (TSXV:TTG)(OTCQB:RCTRF) ("Trans Canada") is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of 6,980,000 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.05 per Unit to raise gross proceeds of $349,000 (the "Offering").

Each Unit consists of one (1) common share and one (1) common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"), each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional common share in the capital of the Company at an exercise price of $0.15 per share for a period of three (3) years from the date of issuance.

Gross proceeds from the Offering will be used by the Company for new drilling planned to take place during the 2024 summer field season on the Company's second Multilateral Well. This well will target the General Petroleum (GP) sand and is similar to successful wells drilled by the operator in the area. The Company will have the right to earn an 18.75% working interest in the Company's second Multilateral well, drilling the GP zone, and is expected to spud in mid-summer 2024. The Company intends to use the balance of proceeds of the Offering for any new costs associated with drilling, exploration of the Company's oil and gas assets, and legal, accounting costs and general working capital.

No finders' fees were paid in connection with the Offering. All of the securities issued in connection with the Offering will be subject to a four month hold period expiring on October 19, 2024. The Offering remains subject to final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101") the Company advises that the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" under MI 61-101 due to the participation of certain insiders as subscribers under the Offering. Insiders subscribed for 4,000,000 Units for aggregate proceeds of $200,000 pursuant to the Offering. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to section 5.5(a) and section 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 based on the fact that neither the fair market value of the Offering nor the fair market value of the consideration paid pursuant to the Offering, insofar as it involves related parties, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

Early Warning

Tim Coupland of British Columbia, Canada, acquired an aggregate of 3,950,000 common shares pursuant to the Private Placement. Mr. Coupland acquired the 3,950,000 Units at a price of $0.05 per Unit for the total purchase price of $197,500 pursuant to the Offering. Immediately prior to the Offering, Mr. Coupland owned and/or had control over an aggregate of 542,408 common shares, representing approximately 1.22% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company on an undiluted basis, of which 532,958 shares are owned directly by Mr. Coupland and 9,450 shares are held by T8X Capital Ltd. ("T8X Capital"), a company owned and controlled by Mr. Coupland. Following completion of the Offering, Mr. Coupland now owns and/or has control over an aggregate of 4,492,408 common shares, representing approximately 8.76% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company on an undiluted basis, of which 4,332,958 shares are owned directly by Mr. Coupland and 159,450 shares are held by T8X Capital. This represents an approximate 7.53% change in Mr. Coupland's ownership and/or control of common shares of the Company on an undiluted basis.

In addition, after completion of the Offering, Mr. Coupland also owns and/or has control over an aggregate of 5,950,000 warrants and 1,075,000 stock options, of which 5,650,000 warrants are owned directly by Mr. Coupland and 300,000 warrants are held by T8X Capital. If Mr. Coupland exercises all of his warrants and stock options, he would then own and/or have control over an aggregate of 11,517,408 common shares, representing approximately 19.75% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company on a partially diluted basis, assuming that no further common shares of the Company have been issued.

Mr. Coupland acquired the securities for investment purposes. Mr. Coupland may, depending on market and other conditions, increase or decrease his beneficial ownership of the Company's securities, whether in the open market, by privately negotiated agreements or otherwise, subject to a number of factors, including general market conditions and other available investment and business opportunities.

The disclosure respecting Mr. Coupland's shareholdings of the Company contained in this press release is made pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 62-104 - Take-Over Bids and Issuer Bids and a report respecting the above acquisition will be filed with the applicable securities commissions using the Canadian System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval+ (SEDAR+) and will be available for viewing at www.sedarplus.com.

ABOUT TRANS CANADA GOLD CORP. - GOLD MINERAL EXPLORATION/ OIL AND GAS PRODUCTION

The Company is a discovery focused Oil & Gas Resource Development and Mineral Exploration Company that is currently focused on developing its' production of conventional heavy oil exploration opportunities, increasing production capabilities and increasing potential future oil production revenues. The Company identifies, acquires and finances the acquisition of gold exploration properties and the ongoing development of mining and oil and gas assets primarily situated in Canada. The Company is currently permitting and developing its Pickle Lake gold exploration property. The Company has qualified Senior exploration management and Geological Mining teams of professionals, seasoned in exploration production, field exploration and drilling. The Company currently works with Croverro Energy Ltd., who has demonstrated proficiency expected of an experienced oil and gas technical team that has proven oil production success with large multi-lateral wells currently under their supervision. The Company has the necessary manpower in place to develop its natural resource properties and manage its production properties. The Company is committed to minimizing risk through selective property acquisitions, and responsible exploration and development of mining, and petroleum and natural gas resource assets.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Tim Coupland, President and CEO

Trans Canada Gold Corp.

Tel: (604) 681-3131

astar@telus.com

www.transcanadagold.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider, (as the 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 and information contained in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to the proposed use of proceeds of the Offering and obtaining final approval of the Offering from the TSX Venture Exchange. Such forward-looking statements are based on several material factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual use of proceeds to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this press release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Trans Canada Gold Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
In a significant collaboration, BlueGrace Energy Bolivia (BGEB) and PH Plus have joined forces to provide PH Plus alkaline water in biodegradable bottles to their restaurants and hotels in South Florida.

Julio Montenegro, CEO of BluegRace Energy Bolivia, has indicated that in agreement with PH Plus both companies are currently negotiating with the team from The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL, to provide PH Plus alkaline water in biodegradable bottles to their restaurants and hotels. This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility and aligns our products with sustainable practices, emphasizing sustainability and alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to environmental conservation and economic growth.

PH Plus Alkaline Water, with its unique formulation and a pH level of 9.5, offers numerous health benefits, including improved vitality, digestion, and enhanced hydration. Tailored to meet diverse health needs, it serves as a holistic solution for disease prevention, weight management, and overall wellness by promoting increased energy and toxin removal. Produced using a unique process that includes reverse osmosis and organic mineralization, PH Plus ensures its water is free from impurities and contaminants. The product is FDA-approved, reflecting the company's commitment to the highest quality standards.

As part of its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), PH Plus utilizes biodegradable bottles in collaboration with Enso Plastics. These innovative bottles accelerate biodegradation through natural microbial activity, while maintaining resilience against light, heat, moisture, UV rays, and oxygen. This groundbreaking approach not only highlights PH Plus's dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship but also demonstrates our core values. We ensure that our commitment to eco-friendly practices does not compromise the exceptional quality of our premium alkaline water. By choosing PH Plus, consumers can trust that they are supporting a product that prioritizes both health and the environment.

By combining expertise and resources, BGEB and PH Plus aspire to drive positive change while adhering to the UN's SDG Goals, setting a new standard for corporate responsibility, and fostering a sustainable future for the region and beyond.

BlueGrace Energy Bolivia (BGEB) demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability by aligning with various global agreements such as the Escazu Agreement, the Paris Agreement, and the UN Economic Commission for LatinAmerica and the Caribbean's (ECLAC) agreement on climate change and fair transition. These agreements emphasize sustainable forest and manufacturing practices, supported by international financial incentives. BGEB's forestry carbon credits originate from projects managed by indigenous tribes in Bolivia's Amazon rainforest, complying with UN standards and methodologies. Unlike regulated credits, BGEB's voluntary carbon credits are globally tradable and registered in the platform registry system to prevent double accounting. Certified by CIFAL in Latin America, these credits contribute to 15 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Zero Hunger, Health and Well-being, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life Underwater, and Life on Land Ecosystems. BGEB's dedication to sustainability aligns with SDGs through Sustainable Development Mechanism (SDM) projects, monitored by tailored targets and metrics. As registered issuers and observers of sustainable financial instruments with Capital Market Association (ICMA) and recognized by the United Nations Global Compact, BGEB prioritizes authenticity and sustainability, ensuring the integrity of their carbon credits.

In 2023, BlueGrace Energy Bolivia, in partnership with MAXIMANCE 2030 LTD, secured approval for ISIN UK.BG.MAX 785.985257. This authorization facilitates the support of the Landmark Forest Conservation Project through equities, with a tenure of 10 years maintaining an unwavering commitment to authenticity and sustainability, prioritizing due diligence to uphold the integrity of our carbon credits. It is also important to mention that APRISCO ENERGY INDUSTRIES S.L., a Spain-based company dedicated to a fair and sustainable energy transition, has joined forces with BLUEGRACE ENERGY BOLIVIA SRL in a groundbreaking initiative poised to significantly contribute to sustainable development goals set for 2030.

Mr. Julio Montenegro, CEO of BGEB indicated that BGEB's dedication to sustainability is evident in its commitment to conserving 20.5 million acres of the Amazon Rainforest and aligning with the UN's Global Compact. Utilizing advanced technology for carbon credit quantification, this initiative significantly contributes to global climate goals.

BGEB's collaborations are focused on empowering indigenous and impoverished communities through comprehensive social initiatives and sustainability, guided towards universally accepted principles in human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption. By enhancing access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure, BGEB is committed to fostering community development alongside its environmental efforts. This integrated approach, which marries environmental conservation with the transition to clean energy and community empowerment, establishes BGEB as a frontrunner in both ecological preservation and clean energy innovation within Bolivia which underscores the ongoing importance of the partnership as it strives towards a sustainable and carbon-neutral future, serving as a compelling example of what collective action and innovation can accomplish.

BGEB's journey inspires us all to take action, as together, we can address climate change and protect our planet for future generations.

About BlueGrace Energy Bolivia:

BlueGrace Energy Bolivia (BGEB), a global consortium of experts in diverse areas, is committed to advancing the transition to a net-zero future in response to climate change challenges. Boasting decades of experience, our team is pioneering 21st-century energy transition projects. Grounded in professional expertise and unwavering integrity, we aim to create genuine value for business and society Learn more at:

Web: https://bluegracebolivia.com/

Youtube: http://tinyurl.com/1BGEB

Instagram: http://tinyurl.com/0BGEB

LInkedIn: http://tinyurl.com/56BGEB

For further information, please contact:

JULIO JOSE MONTENEGRO

jmontenegro@bluegracebolivia.com

+1 (305) 972-6173 (Miami - EE.UU.)

NELSON PINEDA MARTINEZ

nelopineda@bluegracebolivia.com

+591 714-72257 (Bolivia)

For all media inquiries, please contact:

Ivan Linde

ivan.linde@bluegracebolivia.com

+1 (786) 273-7068 (Miami - EE.UU.)

About PH Plus

PH Plus is a prominent leader in alkaline water production and distribution in the United States. Committed to sustainability and community well-being, PH Plus offers premium alkaline water tailored to meet diverse health needs while minimizing environmental impact.

PH Plus specializes in producing high-quality alkaline water, offering improved hydration and antioxidant properties. With headquarters in Bogota, Colombia, and expanding operations in Miami, FL, and Houston, TX, PH Plus is committed to health and sustainability.

For more information on PH Plus and its eco-friendly initiatives, please visit www.getphplus.com.

PH Plus

info@getphplus.com

+1 786-918-3008

About Enso Plastics

Enso Plastics is a global leader in providing environmental plastic solutions. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Enso Plastics partners with companies to create eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics, promoting a greener future for generations to come.

Disclaimer

This announcement is solely for informational use and should not be viewed as financial, legal, or investment guidance. It includes projections and statements that aren't based on past events. Any statement in this release that isn't a historical fact is a projection. Readers should be aware that the basis for these projections might be incorrect and are advised not to rely solely on them. Any projections in this announcement come with a warning. They are current as of the release date, and the Company has no plans to update them, except as mandated by securities regulations.

SOURCE: BLUEGRACE ENERGY BOLIVIA

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Erinnern Sie sich, als Moderna und BioNTech von unbekannten Unternehmen zu globalen Marktfuhrern wurden und fruhzeitige Investoren reich belohnt haben?



Die Branche steht vor einem erneuten Innovationsschub  von bahnbrechenden Medikamenten bis hin zu revolutionaren Therapien.



Warum sollten Sie dabei sein?



Sie sollten jetzt in Biotech-Aktien einsteigen, weil wir am Beginn einer neuen Ara der medizinischen Innovation stehen konnten! Gen- und Zelltherapien, personalisierte Medizin und bahnbrechende Technologien konnten das Gesundheitswesen revolutionieren  und die Aktienkurse in die Hohe schieen lassen.



Die nachste Erfolgsgeschichte im Biotechbereich warten nur darauf, entdeckt zu werden. Wer jetzt investiert, hat die Chance, von gigantischen Durchbruchen und enormen Renditen zu profitieren. Warten Sie nicht, bis es zu spat ist - der nachste Biotech-Superstar konnte morgen schon durchstarten!



Verpassen Sie nicht diese Chance!



Fordern Sie sofort unseren brandneuen Biotech-Spezialreport an und erfahren Sie, welche 3 Biotech-Aktien das riesige Potenzial haben, Ihren finanziellen Erfolg zu sichern. Dieser Report ist komplett kostenlos und zeigt Ihnen zukunftstrachtige Investments im Biotech-Sektor.



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Kunstliche Intelligenz hat spatestens nach dem Raketenstart von Chat GPT das Leben aller verandert. Doch der Superzyklus steht nach Meinungen von Experten erst am Anfang. Wahrend Aktien wie Nvidia von der ersten Aufwartsentwicklung stark profitieren konnten, versprechen aussichtsreiche Player aus der

zweiten Reihe noch enormes Aufwartspotenzial.



Im kostenlosen, exklusiven Spezialreport prasentieren wir ihnen 5 innovative KI-Unternehmen, die bahnbrechende Entwicklungen in diesem Sektor pragen konnten.



Warum sollten Sie dabei sein?

Trotz der jungsten Erfolge steht die Entwicklung der kunstlichen Intelligenz noch am Beginn eines neuen Superzyklus. Experten gehen davon aus, dass der Sektor bis 2032 global auf 1,3 Billionen US-Dollar explodieren wird, wobei ein groer Teil auf Hardware und Infrastruktur entfallen wird.



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Fordern Sie sofort unseren brandneuen Spezialreport an und erfahren Sie, welche 5 KI-Aktien das grote Potenzial zur Vervielfachung besitzen. Dieser Report ist komplett kostenlos und zeigt Ihnen die aussichtsreichsten Investments im KI-Sektor.

Handeln Sie jetzt und sichern Sie sich Ihren kostenfreien Report!
VIENNA, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- After the successful launch of the digital vehicle registration in February 2024, 'youniqx Identity' now announces the launch of the fully digital proof of ID within the Austrian digital ID wallet app 'eAusweise'. This newest digital use case for millions of Austrian citizens marks the latest release in a series of successful launches for Austria's ID wallet app. 'youniqx Identity' is a pioneering leader in digital identity solutions and a subsidiary of the Austrian State Printing House (OSD), focusing on the realization of digital ID use cases as well as modular software solutions for B2B customers.

Austria Integrates Digital ID Proof into Wallet App

From now on, Austria recognizes the digital proof of ID as a full equivalent to established methods, functioning essentially as a digital ID card within Austria. Natural persons can officially show their proof of ID to third parties or private individuals as well as to law enforcement authorities. "We are dedicated to delivering secure and individual solutions to our customer in Austria. And we also strive to make these solutions user-friendly and in accordance with data minimization requirements," says Helmut Lackner, CEO of OSD and youniqx Identity. The proof of ID consists only of the first name, last name, date of birth, and portrait picture of the holder. "This underlines the data-minimized approach, ensuring a user-friendly solution in full accordance with GDPR standards," adds CEO Lackner.

Fully ISO-ready for EIDAS 2.0 Requirements

The new addition within the 'eAusweise' wallet also offers an easier check for law enforcement during the ID verification process improving the efficiency for authorities further. "The development of Austria's digital wallet started with regard to the EU regulations within EIDAS 2.0. For example, we are already fully ISO 18013-5 compliant and ready for future integration within the EU EIDAS 2.0 standard," outlines CEO Lackner.

As of June 2024, over 1.2 million individual digital documents (including digital driver's licenses, digital vehicle registrations, and digital age verifications) were activated in Austria, showing the huge momentum of identity digitization since the initial launch of 'eAusweise' in late 2022. This reflects a wider acceptance of user-friendly and secure digital ID solutions among the Austrian population.

Individual Solutions for Austria and Liechtenstein

In addition to its achievements in digital identity apps, youniqx Identity has also developed individual software components, enabling successful digitization for its customers in Austria and the Principality of Liechtenstein. CEO Helmut Lackner emphasizes the company's commitment to digital ID solutions as well as future standards: "Our recent accomplishments show that we can deliver what is needed for successful statewide digitization. For us at youniqx Identity, this is an invaluable foundation for upcoming supranational EUDI solutions."

About youniqx Identity

youniqx Identity is a leading software developer specializing in digital identities. As a subsidiary of the Austrian State Printing House (OSD), youniqx Identity is dedicated to delivering innovative and user-friendly digital identity solutions as well as modern, secure and efficient modular software solutions for governments. With a proven track record of successful projects and international collaborations, the company remains at the forefront of the digital identity landscape.

- Picture is available at AP -

Thomas Pascher

Head of Marketing & Communications

OeSD International - Osterreichische Staatsdruckerei GmbH

Austrian State Printing House

P: +43 664 88690977 | pascher@staatsdruckerei.at

For more information on MyNHIS, visit: https://nhis.gov.gh/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/austrian-state-printing-house-osd-austria-launches-fully-digital-proof-of-id-302175826.html
AI-generated deepfakes threaten to impact the 2024 election, while deepfake detectors become critical new tools for journalists.

LatticeFlow AI, the leading platform for building trustworthy AI applications, announces LatticeFlow AI Audio, the first product designed to find and identify model errors in audio AI applications.

This release addresses the pressing demand for reliable voice deepfake detection solutions in advance of the 2024 U.S. elections. In this context, LatticeFlow AI Audio, combined with the company's existing capabilities in computer vision, makes it the most advanced solution for deepfake detectors to combat deepfake threats combining audio and video.

"We believe that there is no place for deepfakes in civil, ethical societies," said Dr. Petar Tsankov, Co-founder and CEO at LatticeFlow AI. "Ethical, safe, and trustworthy AI are the foundational values of our company and why we want to help address deepfakes detection in advance of the 2024 elections. LatticeFlow AI Audio is the industry's only product that can automatically find and identify AI audio data and model errors, enabling our clients to rapidly develop more accurate AI deepfake detection applications."

"The announcement of LatticeFlow AI's technology in combating audio deepfakes, in addition to their already existing technology improving video deepfake detectors, is appreciated by journalists such as myself," stated Chris O'Brien, renowned independent journalist. Prior to relocating to Paris, O'Brien covered Silicon Valley for The San Jose Mercury News and the Los Angeles Times. O'Brien added: "I am thrilled to see companies like LatticeFlow AI developing cutting-edge technology to combat deepfakes. Their innovation is a vital step towards preserving the integrity and accuracy of the information we often rely on as journalists."

About LatticeFlow AI

LatticeFlow AI is an award-winning ETH Zurich spin-off founded in 2020. The company has built the first scalable platform that guides AI teams through the AI lifecycle by automatically finding and fixing data and model issues. LatticeFlow AI's customers range from the US Army and the Singaporean Defense, Fortune 500 companies such as Siemens Mobility, to AI scaleups such as Actuate, Athena AI, and Fyusion. The company was featured on the prestigious CB Insights AI100 List of Most Innovative AI companies in 2022 and 2023, and won the Swiss AI Award in 2022 and the US Army Global AI Award in 2021.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240619040418/en/

Contacts:

Press enquiries: media@latticeflow.ai
ATHENS, Greece, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Smartee Denti-Technology, a pioneer in clear aligner industry with 20 years of independent research & development and over 850 patents applied, shared its two decades of achievement and full series of products at the 99th Congress of the European Orthodontic Society (EOS), held from June 9 - 13, 2024, in Athens.

The European Orthodontic Society aims to advance all aspects of orthodontics and its relationship with the collateral arts and sciences for the public benefit. Affiliated with the World Federation of Orthodontists, the society brings together orthodontists from all over the world at the annual congress, held in different European countries each year.

Smartee's booth at the EOS Congress drew significant attention from orthodontists eager to explore the company's two decades of achievement. Highlights included:

Smartee Cutting-edge Solutions S1-S21: Smartee has developed a series of solutions from S1-S21, tailored to different clinical scenarios, and continuously upgrades them to meet various dental needs. Each product series is designed to cater to specific patient requirements, ensuring comprehensive care and effective treatment.

Smartee has developed a series of solutions from S1-S21, tailored to different clinical scenarios, and continuously upgrades them to meet various dental needs. Each product series is designed to cater to specific patient requirements, ensuring comprehensive care and effective treatment. Smartee One-stop Digital Solution: Smartee utilizes AI technology to offer a comprehensive digital solution that enhances treatment planning precision and safety. Key features include the Smartee Med-AI algorithm for instant 3D Root Visualizations, CEPH measurement software for precise patient diagnosis, and Smartee iFast for seamless before-after simulations. These tools empower orthodontic professionals to deliver superior patient care through efficient and effective treatment planning.

Smartee utilizes AI technology to offer a comprehensive digital solution that enhances treatment planning precision and safety. Key features include the Smartee Med-AI algorithm for instant 3D Root Visualizations, CEPH measurement software for precise patient diagnosis, and Smartee iFast for seamless before-after simulations. These tools empower orthodontic professionals to deliver superior patient care through efficient and effective treatment planning. Full Range of Products with Distinctive Features: Including Smartee GS, which applies invisible mandibular repositioning technology to move the mandible forward and promote TMJ remodeling for the treatment of severe Class II malocclusions; Smartee ?, which utilizes different multi-layer composite dental sheet materials for day and night use; Smartee GE, a classic product powered by a global database of over 1.6 million patients; and Smartee Kinder and Smartee Teen, which are both authorized by Disney IP and offer tailored orthodontic solutions for young patients.

As part of its participation at EOS, Smartee hosted an educational workshop led by Dr. Tao Guo, which provided attendees with valuable insights into Smartee GS Mandibular Repositioning Technology for treating severe jaw discrepancies using highly customized clear aligners.

Smartee's presence at the 99th EOS Congress underscores its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of invisible orthodontics and supporting the global orthodontic community. By continually expanding its product offerings and enhancing digital solutions, Smartee aims to empower orthodontists with the technology and tools necessary to deliver exceptional patient care.

About Smartee Denti-Technology:

Founded in 2004, Smartee is the leading provider of clear aligners and digital orthodontic solutions in China. Headquartered in Shanghai, Smartee has two research & development centers and manufacturing plants that are fully automated. By serving over 64,000 doctors from 48,000 medical institutions in over 47 countries, Smartee has achieved over 1 million perfect smiles worldwide.

With the advance of digital solutions, Smartee continues to expand its portfolio and has launched over 10 aligner products catering to different malocclusion problems for children, adolescents and adults. Collaborating with Prof Gang Shen and his orthodontic team, Smartee has developed an innovative product: Smartee GS, which provides orthodontists with mandibular repositioning technology to treat patients with complex indications including facial prognathism, facial retrognathism and mandibular deviation more effectively.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2442585/Smartee_exhibiting_99th_European_Orthodontic_Society_Congress9_13_June_2024_Athens.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2442586/Smartee_s_booth_drew_significant_attention_orthodontists.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2442587/1.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/smartee-presents-two-decades-of-progress-at-the-99th-eos-congress-in-athens-302176672.html
BRUSSELS, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The two-day event, "Reinforcing Cross-Border Governance for Development", organised by the European Commission and the OECD, brought together experts and practitioners from across the EU to introduce a new tool aimed at strengthening governance in cross-border regions. The tool identifies key areas for improvement and provides actionable recommendations to help regions enhance their cross-border cooperation.

Drawing on initial findings from the Commission/OECD project "Building More Resilient Cross-Border Regions", the event showcased the experiences of five pilot regions located in seven countries: Belgium and France (Eurometropole Lille-Kortrijk-Tournai); Lithuania and Poland (EGTC Niemen-Nemunas); Luxembourg and France (EGTC Alzette Belval, Pole Metropolitain Frontalier and PRO-SUD); France and Spain (EGTC Cerdanya Hospital); and Portugal and Spain (EGTC Rio Minho).

"The Commission aims to improve cross-border cooperation, as 30% of the EU population lives along a border and as it is very much needed to make the full use of the many benefits of the EU. This goes beyond the funding provided by Interreg. In this work with the OECD, we wanted to explore the best ways to improve cross-border governance," said Jean-Pierre Halkin, DG REGIO, Head of unit for cross-border cooperation.

The event featured thematic sessions and a workshop to facilitate dialogue among cross-border experts and practitioners. Discussions focused on the core components and recommendations included in the tool, covering topics such as joint development of cross-border strategies; providing public cross-border services; securing sustainable funding for cross-border bodies; advocating for cross-border issues; and managing multi-level relationships.

"We are thrilled to host this event together with the European Commission, leveraging the knowledge and experience of the pilot regions to develop a tool that will help other regions in establishing or strengthening their cross-border governance mechanisms," said Dorothee Allain-Dupre, Head of the Regional Development and Multi-level Governance Division at the OECD. "Based on the outcomes of the event, the OECD will further refine the tool to ensure it serves as a comprehensive resource for policy makers at national, regional, and local levels, helping build more resilient cross-border regions."

The tool covers four main pillars:

Establishing and/or reinforcing the organisational structure of cross-border governance bodies. Planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating cross-border initiatives. Ensuring sustainable funding and financing for cross-border bodies and actions Promoting and advocating for cross-border development.

The final tool will be published in December 2024 as part of the project synthesis report and will be available for free on the OECD's website.

For more information about the event, visit here.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/new-tool-to-enhance-governance-in-cross-border-regions-across-the-european-union-302175425.html
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.

3 Kupferaktien mit hohem Potential

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CHICAGO, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Membranes Market by Material (Polymeric, Ceramic), Technology (Reverse Osmosis (Ro), Ultrafiltration (Uf), Microfiltration (Mf), Nanofiltration (Nf)), Application (Water & Wastewater Treatment, Industrial Processing), Region - Global Forecast to 2029", is projected to reach USD 11.1 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 8.6% from USD 7.4 billion in 2024.

The membranes market is driven by increasing awareness about water & wastewater treatment, stringent wastewater regulations, shift from chemical to physical treatment of water, and increasing demand from end-use industries. Ongoing advancements in membrane materials, including polymeric and ceramic membranes, along with improvements in manufacturing processes, have significantly increased the efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness of membrane systems.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Membranes Market".

230 - Tables

45 - Figures

250 - Pages

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Ceramics is projected to be the second largest material of membranes, in terms of value, during the forecast period.

Ceramic membranes are projected to be the second largest market share in the membranes market due to their distinct advantages in durability, resistance, and performance across various applications. One of the primary factors driving their popularity is their exceptional mechanical strength and long operational life. Unlike polymeric membranes, ceramics are highly resistant to fouling, degradation, and physical damage, making them a reliable choice for long-term use in demanding environments. Their high thermal and chemical resistance further sets ceramic membranes apart. They can withstand extreme temperatures and aggressive chemical environments that would typically degrade other membrane types. This resilience makes them ideal for applications involving harsh solvents, acids, and high-temperature processes, broadening their applicability across industries such as petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage processing.

Nanofiltration is the fastest growing technology for the membranes market during the forecast period, in terms of value.

Nanofiltration technology is rapidly gaining momentum in the membranes market owing to its remarkable efficiency, versatility, and broad applicability across various industries. A key factor propelling this growth is its distinct capability to selectively remove contaminants while permitting essential minerals to permeate through. This selective permeability renders nanofiltration particularly effective in applications such as water softening, organic compound removal, and partial desalination, all crucial for ensuring the production of safe and high-quality water. The increasing focus on sustainable water management practices and the demand for advanced purification techniques have further fueled the adoption of nanofiltration.

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North America captures the second largest share in the membranes market during the forecast period, in terms of value.

The membrane market in North America is driven by a combination of regulatory, economic, technological, and environmental factors. Stringent environmental regulations enforced by agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) play a crucial role. These regulations require advanced water and wastewater treatment solutions to meet high standards for contaminant removal, pushing industries and municipalities to adopt membrane technologies. Economic growth and the robust industrial base in North America further drive the demand for membranes. Industries like pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, biotechnology, and electronics rely heavily on high-purity water for their processes.

Mergers, new product launches and expansions are the major growth strategies adopted by the key players in the market. The key global players in the membranes market include DuPont (US), Toray Industries, Inc. (Japan), Hydranautics (US), Kovalus Separation Solutions (US), Pall Corporation (US), Veolia (US), Pentair (UK), Asahi Kasei Corporation (Japan), LG Chem (South Korea), Mann+Hummel (Germany), and the 3M Company (US).

Browse Adjacent Market: Membranes Market Research Reports & Consulting

Related Reports:

Nanofiltration Membrane Market - Global Forecast to 2028

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Membrane Market - Global Forecast to 2026

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BERLIN, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Growatt, a global leading provider of distributed energy solutions, successfully concluded its exhibition at the SNEC PV Expo, held from June 13th to 15th in Shanghai, China. The event highlighted Growatt's receipt of the Top Brand PV 2024 awards in the inverter and energy storage sectors from EUPD Research and showcased an extensive range of solutions for residential, commercial, off-grid, and various other solar applications.

Lisa Zhang, Vice President of Growatt, commented on their accolades, "As a global top four PV inverter supplier, we are deeply honored to receive these awards. They are a testament to our dedication and R&D efforts in energy technologies and our progress in empowering homes, businesses, and communities worldwide over the past decade. Beyond being a solar inverter company, we specialize in innovative energy solutions that help individuals and corporations generate, save, and manage their energy usage."

Recognized as the world's largest residential inverter supplier for several consecutive years, Growatt presented its latest residential solutions catering to diverse application scenarios. A key highlight was the NEO Series Microinverters for smaller household PV systems. The new NEO 1200-2000M-X offers advanced functionalities such as redundancy, expandability, and smart communication methods. Additionally, the X2 generation inverter product line features a lower start voltage for extended daily operation and an increased maximum string current of 16A, accommodating PV panels with larger wafers.

On the residential storage side, Growatt showcased the Battery-Ready series (MIN XH, MOD XH, and MID XH) inverters, with tailored versions for regional markets such as the US, including the MIN 3000-11400TL-XH-US models. These inverters allow users to start with a PV-only system to reduce initial investment and easily expand to a storage system later with their plug-and-play design. The manufacturer also offers the versatile SPH 10kW HU inverter, which supports up to six units in parallel for a total of 60kW, integrating a generator port and smart load control function to eliminate grid reliance during outages.

With ambitions to expand into larger-scale solar system and build a broader distributed energy ecosystem, Growatt presented the WIT 50-100K Inverter and APX Commercial Battery, designed for large corporate and industrial users. The WIT 50-100K inverter features up to ten MPPTs, a 2.0 DC/AC ratio, and uninterruptible power supply (UPS)-grade grid/off-grid switching capability. Furthermore, the company's popular MAX Series PV inverter now includes the MAX 320-350KTL3-X model. This model ranges from 320kW to 350kW with six MPPTs, each of which can be connected to five strings with a maximum MPPT current of 80A. It is also equipped with an intelligent string breaker to enhance the safety of PV power stations.

"Leveraging our extensive experience and cutting-edge technology in the industry, our solutions are now more comprehensive than ever, empowering both small-scale residential systems and large-scale commercial enterprises to harness and store solar power for optimal energy usage," Zhang concluded, "As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of innovative solutions that will drive the global transition to renewable energy and ensure a brighter, more sustainable world for generations to come."

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Midnight Sun Mining Corp. (TSXV: MMA) (OTC Pink: MDNGF) (the "Company" or "Midnight Sun") is pleased to announce that Dr. Kevin Bonel has joined the Company as COO, Zambia. Dr. Bonel has over 25 years of geological experience in Sub-Saharan Africa, most recently with Barrick Gold's operations at the Lumwana Mine, located directly west of Midnight Sun's Solwezi Project.

Al Fabbro, Midnight Sun's President & CEO, stated: "On behalf of the directors and management, I would like to welcome Kevin. Midnight Sun is entering a new phase of exploration which will have us drilling aggressively on both a Lumwana analog at Dumbwa with KoBold Metals, and on two oxide-copper targets at Kazhiba and Mitu with First Quantum. It is imperative that we continue to build our team, adding personnel with deep experience relevant to our project. In addition to numerous discoveries in the region, Kevin's tenure with Barrick saw him lead both a technical re-evaluation of their Lumwana asset and the discovery of a brand-new deposit, which added 25 years of reserves to the mining operation. Kevin's experience, at Lumwana in particular, will be tremendously valuable to our future exploration plans."

Dr. Bonel, P. Geo is an experienced independent geologist and exploration manager. Most recently, he led the exploration team at Barrick's Lumwana Mine which completed a technical re-evaluation of the Lubwe copper deposit, bringing the deposit to the Pre-Feasibility Stage within 12 months. Dr. Bonel also made the mine site discovery of the Kamaranda copper deposit at Lumwana. Prior to his work with Barrick, he managed exploration of Freeport McMoRan's copper exploration project in Kabompo, Zambia. He was a member of the Kisanfu copper-cobalt pre-feasibility and feasibility leadership team in the DRC, and he oversaw the reinterpretation of the Munali nickel deposit in Zambia, which is now in production. He is credited with the discovery of the Mpemba Hill Ni-Cu-PGE deposit in Malawi, and the discovery of a new copper deposit near Mpongwe, Zambia.

About Midnight Sun

Midnight Sun is focused on exploring our flagship Solwezi Project, located in Zambia. Situated in the heart of the Zambia-Congo Copperbelt, the second largest copper producing region in the world, our property is vast and highly prospective. Our Solwezi Project is surrounded by world-class producing copper mines, including Africa's largest copper mining complex right next door, First Quantum's Kansanshi Mine. Led by an experienced geological team with multiple discoveries and mines around the world to their credit, Midnight Sun intends to find and develop Zambia's next generational copper deposit.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF MIDNIGHT SUN MINING CORP.

Al Fabbro

President & CEO

For Further Information Contact:

Adrian O'Brien

Director of Marketing and Communications

Tel: +1 604 809 6890

Em: adrian@midnightsunmining.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that are based on expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections as at the date of this news release. The information in this news release about the timing and ability of the Company and the earn-in agreement with KoBold; and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward-looking statements". Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (which may, but not always, include phrases such as "anticipates", "plans", "scheduled", "believed" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements and are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any such forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213538

SOURCE: Midnight Sun Mining Corp.
Theralase Technologies Inc. ("Theralase" or the "Company") (TSXV:TLT)(OTCQB:TLTFF), a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of light and/or radiation activated small molecules and their formulations, intended for the safe and effective destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses, is pleased to announce that it's lead drug formulation, Rutherrin, has demonstrated an ability to provide a complete response in a Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer ("NSCLC") animal model.

Theralase recently press released its latest research, using a well-established Lewis Lung Cancer ("LLC1") orthotopic model, representing NSCLC. In this model, mouse lungs are implanted with lung cancer cells, inducing these mice to develop very aggressive, fast growing and metastatic lung tumors.

The mice were treated with x-ray radiation only as a control and x-ray activated Rutherrin as the active arm. The mice treated with x-ray activated Rutherrin demonstrated up to a 4-fold reduced tumor progression, based on Computerized Tomography ("CT") scan assessment of tumor volumes.

As shown in Figure 1, there was a significant delay in tumor progression in mice treated with x-ray activated Rutherrin versus radiation (x-ray) alone (p> 0.001). In fact, in mice treated with x-ray activated Rutherrin, the tumour is notably regressing / being destroyed over time.

Figure 1: Tumor volume analysis in mice after tumor inoculation and treatment with radiation only or combined treatment of Rutherrin and radiation treatment

As an update to this research, as shown in Figure 2, the Kaplan-Meier curve representing animal survival demonstrates a significant increase in overall survival of mice treated with x-ray activated Rutherrin versus radiation only.

Figure 2: Kaplan-Meier survival analysis of mice after tumor inoculation and treatment with radiation only or combined treatment of Rutherrin and radiation treatment

These results demonstrate that animals treated with a combination of Rutherrin and radiation therapy showed an increase in median survival from 26 to 35 days, versus radiation only. In scientific publications, mouse survival of 9 days has been equated to the equivalent of 1 year survival in humans, but more importantly, is that one animal treated with the x-ray activated Rutherrin (which had a positive lung tumor verified by CT scan) demonstrated a complete response and is now considered cancer free.

Dr. Arkady Mandel, M.D., Ph.D., D.Sc., Chief Scientific Officer of Theralase stated, "The latest preclinical research demonstrates the ability of x-ray activated Rutherrin to eradicate lung cancer in an animal model. This is initial research and through optimization, Theralase hopes to achieve a complete response in a much greater percentage of animals, but this initial data is extremely encouraging. As a result of this latest success, Theralase has committed to bringing this technology to market through the systematic research and development of this cutting-edge clinical therapy to safely and effectively destroy various cancers in patients. As a direct result, our list of cancer targets has increased from bladder cancer, which in the late stage of clinical development, to encompass brain cancer, lung cancer and various blood-based cancers, such as: leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma."

Roger DuMoulin-White, B.E.Sc., P.Eng., Pro.Dir., President and Chief Executive Officer of Theralase stated, "This latest research symbolizes the significant progress Theralase has made over the last few years in the research and development of world-class systemic and targeted therapies for the treatment of various hard-to- treat cancers, such as: bladder cancer, brain and lung cancer. Pending sufficient capitalization and completion of a Good Laboratory Practice ("GLP") toxicology analysis for Rutherrin, Theralase plans to commence clinical studies for brain cancer, lung cancer and various blood-based cancers. If proven safe and effective in humans, Theralase hopes to change the paradigm of how patients diagnosed with cancer are treated in the future."

About Lung Cancer:

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Most patients die of progressive metastatic disease despite aggressive local and systemic therapies. The survival rate for lung cancer depends on the type, stage and age of the patient, with the overall 5-year survival rate for all types of lung cancer about 26.6%. Lung cancer is histologically classified into two main types: Small Cell Lung Cancer ("SCLC"), which accounts for approximately 15% of the patients diagnosed with lung cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer ("NSCLC"), which accounts for approximately 85%.

About Theralase Technologies Inc.:

Theralase is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of light and/or radiation activated small molecule compounds, their associated drug formulations and the light systems that activate them, with a primary objective of efficacy and a secondary objective of safety in the destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses.

Additional information is available at www.theralase.com and www.sedar.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements:

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such statements include; but, are not limited to statements regarding the Company's proposed development plans with respect to small molecules and their drug formulations. Forward looking statements may be identified by the use of the words "may, "should", "will", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "expects", "estimate", "potential for" and similar expressions; including, statements related to the current expectations of Company's management for future research, development and commercialization of the Company's small molecules and their drug formulations, preclinical research, clinical studies and regulatory approvals.

These statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions; including, the ability of the Company to fund and secure the regulatory approvals to successfully complete various clinical studies in a timely fashion and implement its development plans. Other risks include: the ability of the Company to successfully commercialize its small molecule and drug formulations, the risk that access to sufficient capital to fund the Company's operations may not be available on terms that are commercially favorable to the Company or at all, the risk that the Company's small molecule and drug formulations may not be effective against the diseases tested in its clinical studies, the risk that the Company's fails to comply with the terms of license agreements with third parties and as a result loses the right to use key intellectual property in its business, the Company's ability to protect its intellectual property, the timing and success of submission, acceptance and approval of regulatory filings. Many of these factors that will determine actual results are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict.

Readers should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate as such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results or future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in the press release are based upon what management currently believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure prospective investors that actual results, performance or achievements will be consistent with these forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and are subject to change. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update such statements.

For investor information on the Company, please feel to reach out Investor Inquiries - Theralase Technologies.

For More Information:

1.866.THE.LASE (843-5273)

416.699.LASE (5273)

www.theralase.com

Kristina Hachey, CPA

Chief Financial Officer

X 224

khachey@theralase.com

SOURCE: Theralase Technologies Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
LONDON, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Upp.ai - a London-based technology business that uses AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) to massively improve how brands and retailers' market and sell their products online - has appointed Tim Wakeham as VP of Partnerships.

As demand for effective AI solutions continues to grow in the Digital Marketing space, Upp.ai is accelerating their investment in growth with the appointment of Tim Wakeham as VP of Partnerships. Tim will lean on 20 years of experience in the digital marketing, agency and Google Partnership space to help expand the reach and impact Upp.ai has across retailers, agencies and the media owners.

Tim was instrumental in the expansion of Jellyfish from a 20-person agency, via a class leading partnership with Google, to helping grow the business into the largest global independent agency building out a footprint across 40 offices worldwide. More recently Tim supported Publicis Media in the development of their own Google Marketing Platform consultancy, PM Dragonfly, as VP of Growth and seeding the offering across the Group and the Global Google Partnership programs.

Commenting on his appointment, Tim Wakeham said, "Having been at the forefront of the digital agency revolution at Jellyfish I can recognise the emerging opportunity that AI represents in the digital advertising space and welcome the chance to be part of this new wave of disruptive technology.

"Brands looking for incremental performance (and agencies looking to refine their performance offering) are turning to AI solutions and migrating from the traditional agency operating models to automation, machine learning and artificial intelligence. We can help to take these advertisers to the next level - employing AI to keep up, or stay ahead, of the competition."

Jonathan Gale, CEO of Upp.ai commented, "As we scale rapidly, our ability to form strong partnerships with media owners and progressive agencies is critical. We are delighted that someone with Tim's experience and knowledge has joined the Upp.ai team to make this happen. This appointment demonstrates the progression of Upp.ai as a business and the growing importance of AI solutions in the retail eCommerce space."

About Upp.ai

Upp.ai is a London-based startup that uses AI (Artificial Intelligence) and ML (Machine Learning) to automate online product advertising, streamlining multi-channel campaign deployment.

The platform empowers digital marketing professionals with a scientific, data-driven approach to paid activation, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of advertising. Resulting in optimised ad spend, improved product discovery and increased sales.

Upp.ai was founded in 2019 by Ben White and Drew Smith and works with brands such as Charles Tyrwhitt, the Safety Supply Company and Roman Originals.

For more information visit www.upp.ai.

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Press and media contact:

Tim Pickard

tim.pickard@upp.ai

+44 (0)7500 045165

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Aton Resources Inc. (TSXV:AAN) ("Aton" or the "Company") updates investors on the progress of its ongoing exploration programmes within the retained exploration areas of the Company's Abu Marawat Concession ("Abu Marawat" or the "Concession") in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, including the results of recent surface sampling at several of its regional targets.

Highlights:

Aton has recently undertaken further sampling and mapping programmes over several of its regional targets in the Abu Marawat Concession retained exploration areas;

A total of 258 selective grab and non-selective surface channel were collected from the Black Gaharish, Bohlog, Kab Amira, Semna and Zeno prospect areas (Figure 1). A further 7 blank and duplicate QAQC samples were also submitted for analysis;

38 samples were collected from the Black Gaharish prospect area, returning assays including 29.9 g/t Au and 9.46 g/t Au ;

; 7 samples were collected from the Bohlog prospect area, returning assays including 183 g/t Au and 14.65 g/t Au ;

; 112 samples were collected from the Kab Amira prospect area, returning assays including 67.4 g/t Au, 44.9 g/t Au and 29.8 g/t Au ;

; 42 samples were collected from the Semna regional prospect area, returning assays including 125 g/t Au, 36.3 g/t Au and 32.5 g/t Au;

59 samples were collected from the Zeno regional prospect area, returning assays including 45.1 g/t Au, 26.9 g/t Au and 24.5 g/t Au;

The phase 2 diamond drilling programme has been completed at the Semna prospect, with 28 holes completed for a total drilled meterage of 4,701m. The Company has also now completed a programme of surface sampling and started a c. 3,000m programme of shallow and horizontal diamond drilling at the Abu Marawat deposit, designed to test a highly prospective and previously undrilled area.

"This is another set of excellent surface sampling results, which yet again demonstrate the potential of the Abu Marawat Concession, including the newly identified Kab Amira area, and the very widespread development of gold mineralisation at surface across the areas that have been retained for further exploration" said Tonno Vahk, CEO. "We are proceeding with our exploration programmes on the retained exploration areas, with the clearly defined objective of bringing them into the exploitation lease within the next 4 years. The follow-up phase 2 diamond drilling programme has been completed at Semna, and we look forward to releasing the results of this programme very shortly. We have now returned to the Abu Marawat deposit for the first time since 2012, and where we will be drilling potentially high grade areas outside the existing NI 43-101 resource which were not drilled previously due to the difficulty of access in steep terrain. We are excited by the recent identification by our field team of new mineralised structures at surface in the area we will be drilling. Now that the JV company Abu Marawat Gold Mines, which will operate the Hamama and Rodruin exploitation lease, has been established, we will be pushing ahead with the development of the Hamama West gold mine, which will be the first mine that we plan to develop on the Abu Marawat Concession."

Abu Marawat regional sampling programme

The Company has continued its mapping and sampling programmes over the retained exploration areas in recent months, as part of its long term strategy to ultimately incorporate all of its prospective targets into the Abu Marawat exploitation lease, which is valid for an initial period of 20 years. Many of the Company's main exploration targets have been exploited in recent years by artisanal miners, predominantly since the Company's suspension of field activities in 2020 as a result of the covid-19 pandemic, although the Company successfully evicted these illegal miners during 2023 from the Concession. This recent programme continues the sampling and mapping work completed in 2023 (see news releases dated May 29, 2023, June 26, 2023 and July 31, 2023).

Sampling was undertaken at Semna (regional), Bohlog, Zeno, and Black Gaharish and at the recently identified Kab Amira prospect area (Figure 1), predominantly on previously unidentified mineralised structures that have been exploited by the artisanal miners in recent years. The sampling has again confirmed the presence of a well mineralised c. 20 km long corridor stretching from Sir Bakis in the west to the Semna East area on the margin of the Gaharish pluton, including the Sir Bakis, Massaghat, Bohlog, Zeno, Kab Amira, Black Gaharish, Semna and Semna East areas. Mineralisation through this belt is orogenic in style, typically consisting of shear-hosted and structurally controlled high grade quartz veins. To date only the immediate Semna gold mine area, and the central Zeno area have been drill tested. The Company is planning to undertake RC percussion drilling on some of the most promising targets in the retained exploration areas later in 2024, and the results of this current programme will inform the design of these upcoming programmes.

Figure 1: Geological map of the Abu Marawat Concession, showing the locations of the sampled prospects

Samples collected in this programme were predominantly selective manually taken grab and grab composite samples, with relatively subordinate c. 0.5-1m long non-selective in situ chip channel samples across potentially mineralised structures. A total of 265 samples were collected from the programme including 7 QAQC samples, consisting of 5 blank and 2 duplicate samples. All samples were analysed for gold, silver and copper, with most of the samples also analysed for lead and zinc. Selected results from the programme are presented in Table 1, and full assay results are presented in Appendix A.

Sample ID Project E N Sample type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) AHA-46117 Black Gaharish 555009 2922900 Grab composite 29.90 4.0 78 3 57 AHA-46126 Black Gaharish 555728 2922702 Grab 8.72 3.8 19 2 98 AHA-46137 Black Gaharish 555782 2921561 Grab 9.46 5.8 4,410 33 2,010 AHA-46142 Black Gaharish 556321 2922391 Grab 5.25 0.2 4 1 4 AHA-45993 Bohlog 551748 2919572 Grab 183.0 68.1 49 5,320 817 AHA-45994 Bohlog 551748 2919578 Ore pile grab 14.65 3.1 10 154 104 AHA-45995 Bohlog 551859 2919625 Ore pile grab 7.14 3.8 29 914 166 AHA-45996 Bohlog 551736 2919512 Grab 10.20 1.4 46 94 52 AHA-45799 Kab Amira 552851 2921563 Ore pile grab 17.10 4.7 143 n/a n/a AHA-45800 Kab Amira 552853 2921553 Ore pile grab 17.65 5.6 173 n/a n/a AHA-45922 Kab Amira 552705 2921167 Grab 12.75 2.8 164 134 2,310 AHA-45942 Kab Amira 552908 2919793 Grab 5.52 1.6 194 112 109 AHA-45943 Kab Amira 552907 2919789 Grab 15.10 4.4 364 326 160 AHA-45946 Kab Amira 552936 2919718 Grab 44.90 14.3 373 1,095 508 AHA-45950 Kab Amira 553092 2922357 Grab 24.10 1.8 44 8 970 AHA-45952 Kab Amira 553100 2922354 Grab 9.52 0.7 23 7 649 AHA-45959 Kab Amira 552986 2922598 Grab 29.80 5.2 102 140 946 AHA-45960 Kab Amira 552897 2922556 Grab 6.13 0.2 52 6 321 AHA-46004 Kab Amira 552980 2920950 Grab 15.95 4.4 36 22 89 AHA-46006 Kab Amira 554041 2919885 Grab 6.46 3.6 145 2,840 1,250 AHA-46013 Kab Amira 552730 2919962 Grab 12.35 3.7 209 869 659 AHA-46022 Kab Amira 554530 2921342 Grab composite 7.51 1.5 310 11 41 AHA-46025 Kab Amira 552843 2921555 Grab 9.41 3.5 153 1,255 1,390 AHA-46026 Kab Amira 552863 2921552 Grab 67.40 24.9 317 5,830 3,930 AHA-46050 Semna 558777 2924731 Chip channel 32.50 2.6 36 14 14 AHA-46170 Semna 558951 2923939 Chip channel (single) 36.30 34.8 28,960 5 35 AHA-46171 Semna 558951 2923939 Grab 125.0 56.8 32,550 3 20 AHA-46184 Semna 560040 2923416 Grab 5.07 1.8 11 n/a n/a AHA-46185 Semna 560084 2923853 Grab 7.01 1.8 2,750 n/a n/a AHA-46187 Semna 560214 2923850 Grab 19.80 28.4 60 n/a n/a AHA-46188 Semna 560211 2923781 Grab 8.82 9.5 9 n/a n/a AHA-46212 Semna 559168 2923477 Chip channel (single) 13.90 1.9 740 5 92 AHA-45698 Zeno 552764 2925324 Grab 45.10 3.1 83 n/a n/a AHA-45713 Zeno 553059 2925438 Grab 26.90 3.1 826 n/a n/a AHA-45730 Zeno 553972 2925742 Grab 5.15 3.5 244 n/a n/a AHA-45742 Zeno 554260 2925860 Grab 5.80 1.0 266 n/a n/a AHA-45792 Zeno 554192 2925303 Grab 24.50 8.2 83 n/a n/a AHA-45795 Zeno 554096 2925155 Ore pile grab 8.81 2.3 82 n/a n/a

Table 1: Selected surface sampling results

Discussion of results

Black Gaharish

The Black Gaharish area is located approximately 4 km southwest of the Semna gold mine, and approximately 23 km east-northeast of the Company's Hamama West deposit (Figure 1). The gold mineralisation at Black Gaharish is frequently associated with flat lying structures within intrusive granodioritic host rocks, and is sometimes associated with minor copper staining in the mineralised quartz veins. Mineralisation is considered to be structurally controlled and orogenic in nature, and of a similar style to that at the Semna mine, and the Zeno prospect. A single grab sample of vein quartz from an ancient working previously returned an assay grade of 16.5 g/t Au (see news release dated September 13, 2017).

During the current sampling programme 38 selective grab samples were collected from the Black Gaharish area, as well as 1 blank QAQC sample, with selected results shown in Table 1, and all results provided in Appendix A.

5 (13%) of the Black Gaharish samples from the current programme returned assays greater than 5 g/t and 11 (29%) returned assays greater than 1 g/t Au (Figure B3), including individual samples grading up to 29.9 g/t Au (sample AHA-46117), associated with a narrow iron oxide stained shear zone-hosted composite quartz vein.

Bohlog

The Bohlog area is located approximately 8-9 km west-southwest of the Semna gold mine, and approximately 7.5 km north of the Company's Rodruin deposit (Figure 1), and was a significant mining area in ancient times. Illegal artisanal miners have been active in the Bohlog area in recent years. The gold mineralisation at Bohlog (Zones 1 to 4) is spatially related to the late Bohlog granite, which is intruded into early orogenic 'grey granites', and has a distinctive Au-W-Pb-Cu geochemical signature. The mineralisation at Zone 5 is more similar to the orogenic style of mineralisation identified throughout the c. 20 km long Sir Bakis-Semna East mineralised corridor.

In early 2017 the Company's field crews carried out a programme of grab and channel sampling at Bohlog which returned assays of up to 21.1 g/t Au (see news release dated June 7, 2017). Follow-up deep trenching returned mechanical saw-cut channel sample intercepts including 1.57 g/t Au over a 20m interval and 1.65 g/t Au over a 9m interval from Bohlog Zone 2 (see news release dated February 28, 2018).

During 2018 mineralization was identified over an area covering at least 275m x 125m at Bohlog Zone 5 with selective surface grab samples returning grades of up to 18.30 g/t Au and 17.85 g/t Au from sheared quartz veins and ancient dumps. Surface channel sampling profiles also returned mineralised intersections including 1.82 g/t Au over a 6m interval (see news release dated February 28, 2018).

During the current sampling programme 7 selective grab samples were collected from the Bohlog Zone 5 area, with selected results shown in Table 1, and all results provided in Appendix A.

3 of the 7 Bohlog samples from the current programme returned assays greater than 10 g/t (Figure B4), including individual samples grading up to 183.0 g/t Au (sample AHA-45993). This sample from a recent artisanal working contained very abundant visible coarse gold (Figure 2). Lead and silver were also significantly elevated in this sample.

Kab Amira

The recently identified Kab Amira prospect is located approximately 6-8 km southwest of the Semna gold mine, and approximately 6-8 north of the Company's Rodruin deposit (Figure 1), and covers an overall area of approximately 10 km2. Mineralisation at Kab Amira is considered to be of a continuation of that in the Zeno, Semna and Bohlog Zone 5 areas, manifested by shear-hosted and structurally controlled high grade quartz veins, and is again very typical of the orogenic style mineralisation throughout the entire Sir Bakis-Semna East mineralised corridor. Mineralised structures are typically flat-lying at Kab Amira, as at the Black Gaharish prospect. Significant small scale artisanal mining has again taken place at Kab Amira since 2020.

Figure 2: Visible gold in an iron-stained quartz vein from sample AHA-45993 (Bohlog Zone 5)

The Company has undertaken very limited previous sampling at Kab Amira, but in 2023 surface sampling was undertaken in the wider Bohlog area, which returned an assay of 48.4 g/t Au, from the previously unsampled southern Kab Amira area, approximately 1 km east of Bohlog Zone 5 (see news release dated May 29, 2023).

During the current sampling programme 97 selective grab and grab composite samples and 15 non-selective chip channel samples were collected from the Kab Amira area, as well as 2 blank and 2 duplicate QAQC samples, with selected results shown in Table 1, and all results provided in Appendix A.

10 (9%) of the Kab Amira samples from the current programme returned assays greater than 10 g/t and 57 (51%) returned assays greater than 1 g/t Au (Figures B4 and B5). Individual samples returned assays including 67.4 g/t Au (sample AHA-46026), 44.9 g/t Au (sample AHA-45946), 29.8 g/t Au (sample AHA-45959), and 24.1 g/t Au (sample AHA-45950), confirming the discovery of high grade mineralisation at surface at Kab Amira. The higher grade samples from Kab Amira typically contained significantly elevated levels of lead, as at Bohlog Zone 5 (see above), and to a lesser extent elevated silver and sometimes zinc, whereas copper was generally quite low.

Semna (regional)

The Semna gold mine is located approximately 27 km east-northeast of the Hamama West deposit and 13 km north-northeast of the Rodruin deposit (Figure 1). Semna has a long history of gold mining, during both ancient and modern times, and was mined in the early 20th century by two British companies. RC percussion drilling during 2023 at Semna intersected high grade mineralisation (see news releases dated October 13, 2023, November 7, 2023 and December 18, 2023). The Company has recently completed a follow-up diamond drill programme at Semna, and will report the final results from this programme very soon.

During 2017 surface channel sampling at Semna returned mineralised intercepts including 5.17 g/t Au over an interval of 9.7m at surface, and individual channel samples grading up to 18.05 g/t Au (see news release November 22, 2017). Follow-up surface sampling at Semna during 2023 returned assay results including 27.6 g/t Au, 24.0 g/t Au and 16.95 g/t Au (see news release dated May 29, 2023). Additional regional sampling east of the main Semna mine area returned assays including 25.7 g/t Au, 16.55 g/t Au and 15.2 g/t Au (see news release dated July 31, 2023).

During the current sampling programme 19 selective grab and grab composite samples and 23 non-selective chip channel samples were collected from the Semna regional area, as well as 1 blank QAQC sample, with selected results shown in Table 1, and all results provided in Appendix A.

7 (12%) of the Semna regional samples from the current programme returned assays greater than 5 g/t and 18 (43%) returned assays greater than 1 g/t Au (Figure B6). Individual samples returned assays including 125.0 g/t Au (grab sample AHA-46171), 36.3 g/t Au (chip channel sample AHA-46170), and 32.5 g/t Au (sample AHA-46050). Samples AHA-46170 and AHA-46171 were taken from a single quartz vein structure, approximately 800m south-southeast of the Semna Main Vein zone ("MVZ"), and also contained significantly elevated copper and silver, as does locally the MVZ. Several other samples also carried significantly elevated levels of copper, however zinc and lead assays were typically quite low, again similar to the MVZ. This latest tranche of results confirms the potential for additional high grade mineralised structures in the regional Semna area, similar to the Semna MVZ.

Zeno

The Zeno prospect area is located approximately 12 km north of the Rodruin mineral deposit and 4-7 km west of the Semna gold mine (Figure 1), and has extensive ancient workings over an area of greater than 10 km2. Artisanal miners have been very active in the general Zeno area since 2020. Aton completed a first pass RC percussion drilling programme at Zeno during 2023, returning intersections including 9.77 g/t Au over a 3m interval and 4.16 g/t Au over a 6m interval (see news release dated February 1, 2024).

Previous surface sampling by Aton of visible gold and iron oxide bearing quartz veins returned assays including 117.5 g/t Au, 100.5 g/t Au, 72.3 g/t Au, 56.5 g/t Au and 48.3 g/t Au (see news release dated May 30, 2018), 104.5 g/t Au, 67.1 g/t Au and 43.0 g/t Au (see news release dated June 26, 2023), and 36.2 g/t Au and 15.3 g/t Au (see news release dated July 31, 2023).

The current sampling programme was focussed on the northern and northwestern part of the overall Zeno area, where relatively limited surface sampling had previously been undertaken. 59 selective grab samples were collected during this programme, as well as 1 blank QAQC sample, with selected results shown in Table 1, and all results provided in Appendix A.

5 (12%) of the Zeno samples from the current programme returned assays greater than 10 g/t and 18 (31%) returned assays greater than 1 g/t Au (Figure B7). Individual samples returned assays including 45.1 g/t Au (sample AHA-45698), 26.9 g/t Au (sample AHA-45713), and 24.5 g/t Au (sample AHA-45792), further expanding the mineralised footprint at Zeno to the west and northwest.

Sample processing and analytical procedures

Samples were collected in the field by Aton's exploration teams. Grab and grab composite samples were selective, whereas chip channel samples were non-selective. Chip channel samples were collected in situ by manually rock chipping across potentially mineralised structures or veins, using a hammer and chisel. Grab and grab composite samples were selective, and were usually, but not necessarily collected in situ, and may have been collected from rock or ore dumps or float material, where indicated.

The samples were weighed and crushed to -4mm onsite at the Rodruin sample prep facility, and split to a nominal c. 250-500g sample size. The coarse crushed reject samples are retained onsite.

The c. 250-500g dried, crushed and split samples were shipped to ALS Minerals sample preparation laboratory at Marsa Alam, Egypt where they were pulverised to a size fraction of better than 85% passing 75 microns. From this pulverised material a further sub-sample was split off with a nominal c. 50g size, which was shipped on to ALS Minerals at Rosia Montana, Romania for analysis. The reject pulps were returned from ALS, and are also retained onsite.

Samples were analysed for gold by fire assay with an atomic absorption spectroscopy ("AAS") finish (analytical code Au-AA23), and for silver, copper, lead and zinc using an aqua regia digest followed by an AAS finish (analytical code AA45). Any high grade gold samples (>10 g/t Au) were re-analysed using analytical code Au-GRA21 (also fire assay, but with a gravimetric finish). Any high grade Ag and base metal samples (Ag >100 g/t, and Cu, Pb and Zn >10,000 ppm or >1%) were re-analysed using the ore grade technique AA46 (also an aqua regia digest followed by an AAS finish).

About Aton Resources Inc.

Aton Resources Inc. (AAN: TSX-V) is focused on its 100% owned Abu Marawat Concession ("Abu Marawat"), located in Egypt's Arabian-Nubian Shield, approximately 200 km north of Centamin's world-class Sukari gold mine. Aton has identified numerous gold and base metal exploration targets at Abu Marawat, including the Hamama deposit in the west, the Abu Marawat deposit in the northeast, and the Rodruin deposit in the south of the Concession. Two historic British gold mines are also located on the Concession at Semna and Sir Bakis. Aton has identified several distinct geological trends within Abu Marawat, which display potential for the development of a variety of styles of precious and base metal mineralisation. The Abu Marawat exploitation lease is 57.66 km2 in size, covering the Hamama West and Rodruin mineral deposits, and was established In January 2024 and is valid for an initial period of 20 years. The Concession also includes an additional 255.0 km2 of exploration areas at Abu Marawat, retained for a further period of 4 years from January 2024. Abu Marawat is located in an area of excellent infrastructure; a four-lane highway, a 220kV power line, and a water pipeline are in close proximity, as are the international airports at Hurghada and Luxor.

Qualified person

The technical information contained in this News Release was prepared by Javier Orduna BSc (hons), MSc, MCSM, DIC, MAIG, SEG(M), Chief Geologist of Aton Resources Inc. Mr. Orduna is a qualified person (QP) under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

For further information regarding Aton Resources Inc., please visit us at www.atonresources.com or contact:

TONNO VAHK

Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +1 604 318 0390

Email: info@atonresources.com

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements contained in this release are forward-looking statements. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions; by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results in each case could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.

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.

Appendix A: Grab and grab composite samples

Sample ID Project E N Sample type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) AHA-46107 Black Gaharish - - Blank 0.01 <0.2 5 10 146 AHA-46108 Black Gaharish 555204 2921063 Grab 4.67 1.0 81 4 84 AHA-46109 Black Gaharish 555224 2921237 Grab 0.05 <0.2 8 1 24 AHA-46110 Black Gaharish 555220 2921237 Grab 0.25 0.3 255 2 119 AHA-46111 Black Gaharish 555375 2921818 Grab 0.56 0.2 391 137 344 AHA-46112 Black Gaharish 555375 2921818 Grab 0.04 <0.2 43 6 309 AHA-46113 Black Gaharish 554865 2922459 Grab 1.59 0.3 21 3 20 AHA-46114 Black Gaharish 554898 2922419 Grab 0.12 <0.2 17 1 27 AHA-46115 Black Gaharish 554896 2922420 Grab 0.79 0.5 877 1 7 AHA-46116 Black Gaharish 554896 2922420 Grab 1.71 0.3 985 5 70 AHA-46117 Black Gaharish 555009 2922900 Grab composite 29.90 4.0 78 3 57 AHA-46118 Black Gaharish 555003 2922893 Grab 0.04 <0.2 10 1 27 AHA-46119 Black Gaharish 555005 2922887 Grab composite 3.52 1.0 297 12 605 AHA-46120 Black Gaharish 554817 2923111 Grab composite 0.42 0.3 77 6 27 AHA-46121 Black Gaharish 554843 2923100 Grab 0.15 <0.2 7 2 23 AHA-46122 Black Gaharish 554931 2923056 Grab 0.08 0.2 11 1 8 AHA-46123 Black Gaharish 555009 2922962 Grab 0.02 <0.2 34 2 24 AHA-46124 Black Gaharish 555700 2922669 Grab 2.63 0.9 34 5 608 AHA-46125 Black Gaharish 555737 2922711 Grab 1.03 0.4 68 4 24 AHA-46126 Black Gaharish 555728 2922702 Grab 8.72 3.8 19 2 98 AHA-46127 Black Gaharish 555735 2922710 Grab 0.12 0.4 115 5 207 AHA-46128 Black Gaharish 555605 2922969 Grab 0.33 0.6 73 8 537 AHA-46129 Black Gaharish 555593 2922954 Grab 5.62 2.6 313 12 1,690 AHA-46130 Black Gaharish 555605 2922969 Grab composite 0.91 0.8 69 24 1,205 AHA-46131 Black Gaharish 555894 2922249 Grab 0.03 <0.2 9 1 36 AHA-46132 Black Gaharish 555895 2922250 Grab 0.21 0.3 183 6 161 AHA-46133 Black Gaharish 555100 2922899 Grab 0.37 0.5 356 7 246 AHA-46134 Black Gaharish 555459 2922322 Grab 0.08 <0.2 9 4 32 AHA-46135 Black Gaharish 555543 2922184 Grab 0.03 <0.2 6 3 11 AHA-46136 Black Gaharish 555542 2922184 Grab 0.02 <0.2 5 5 58 AHA-46137 Black Gaharish 555782 2921561 Grab 9.46 5.8 4,410 33 2,010 AHA-46138 Black Gaharish 556214 2922353 Grab 0.17 <0.2 8 2 13 AHA-46139 Black Gaharish 556214 2922353 Grab 0.54 0.4 50 6 69 AHA-46140 Black Gaharish 556217 2922353 Grab composite 0.07 <0.2 13 4 85 AHA-46141 Black Gaharish 556217 2922353 Grab composite 0.22 <0.2 31 6 90 AHA-46142 Black Gaharish 556321 2922391 Grab 5.25 0.2 4 1 4 AHA-46143 Black Gaharish 556381 2922194 Grab 0.27 <0.2 3 2 5 AHA-46144 Black Gaharish 556256 2922286 Grab composite 0.04 <0.2 13 4 83 AHA-46145 Black Gaharish 556257 2922285 Grab 0.02 <0.2 5 1 26 AHA-45993 Bohlog 551748 2919572 Grab 183.0 68.1 49 5,320 817 AHA-45994 Bohlog 551748 2919578 Ore pile grab 14.65 3.1 10 154 104 AHA-45995 Bohlog 551859 2919625 Ore pile grab 7.14 3.8 29 914 166 AHA-45996 Bohlog 551736 2919512 Grab 10.20 1.4 46 94 52 AHA-45997 Bohlog 551897 2919541 Grab 3.44 0.8 14 65 77 AHA-45998 Bohlog 551856 2919517 Grab 0.64 0.4 12 8 34 Sample ID Project E N Sample type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) AHA-45999 Bohlog 551968 2919637 Chip channel (single) 1.72 1.0 123 108 1,195 AHA-45799 Kab Amira 552851 2921563 Ore pile grab 17.10 4.7 143 n/a n/a AHA-45800 Kab Amira 552853 2921553 Ore pile grab 17.65 5.6 173 n/a n/a AHA-45907 Kab Amira - - Blank 0.01 <0.2 10 7 194 AHA-45908 Kab Amira 554014 2919313 Grab 0.38 0.4 331 15 37 AHA-45909 Kab Amira 553862 2919395 Ore pile grab 1.32 <0.2 16 2 13 AHA-45910 Kab Amira 553858 2919444 Grab 0.03 <0.2 2 2 6 AHA-45911 Kab Amira 553745 2919573 Grab 3.03 <0.2 265 4 35 AHA-45912 Kab Amira 553746 2919573 Grab 0.37 <0.2 287 5 881 AHA-45913 Kab Amira 553803 2919179 Grab 0.08 <0.2 5 3 9 AHA-45914 Kab Amira 553802 2919178 Grab 0.45 0.2 4 3 31 AHA-45915 Kab Amira 553811 2919182 Grab 0.01 <0.2 4 2 37 AHA-45916 Kab Amira 553796 2919206 Grab 0.01 <0.2 3 3 93 AHA-45917 Kab Amira 553059 2921189 Grab 0.03 <0.2 7 17 20 AHA-45918 Kab Amira 552788 2921468 Grab 0.62 0.2 11 8 85 AHA-45919 Kab Amira 552789 2921471 Grab 1.90 0.9 16 13 107 AHA-45920 Kab Amira 552772 2921489 Grab 0.03 <0.2 33 9 100 AHA-45921 Kab Amira 552706 2921167 Grab 2.32 0.3 12 5 170 AHA-45922 Kab Amira 552705 2921167 Grab 12.75 2.8 164 134 2,310 AHA-45923 Kab Amira 552702 2921162 Grab 0.02 <0.2 11 6 178 AHA-45924 Kab Amira 552615 2921141 Grab 3.89 0.6 21 52 235 AHA-45925 Kab Amira 552690 2921030 Grab 3.51 1.3 24 237 831 AHA-45926 Kab Amira 552692 2921025 Grab 0.14 <0.2 13 12 81 AHA-45927 Kab Amira 552650 2921085 Grab 0.04 <0.2 3 3 36 AHA-45928 Kab Amira 552650 2921084 Grab 1.42 <0.2 10 18 314 AHA-45929 Kab Amira 552517 2921048 Grab 0.50 0.3 594 67 69 AHA-45930 Kab Amira 552520 2921052 Grab 2.36 0.5 240 43 962 AHA-45931 Kab Amira 552692 2921018 Chip channel 0.01 <0.2 18 4 108 AHA-45932 Kab Amira 552691 2921017 Chip channel 0.28 <0.2 14 11 225 AHA-45933 Kab Amira 552692 2921020 Chip channel 0.21 <0.2 49 20 116 AHA-45934 Kab Amira 552160 2921804 Grab 0.88 4.3 18 94 39 AHA-45935 Kab Amira 552158 2921797 Grab 0.05 0.3 10 13 38 AHA-45936 Kab Amira 551808 2921855 Grab 1.79 0.4 42 10 17 AHA-45937 Kab Amira 552920 2921723 Grab 0.03 0.2 106 8 190 AHA-45938 Kab Amira 552896 2919815 Grab 0.38 1.8 242 5 17 AHA-45939 Kab Amira 552899 2919820 Chip channel 0.07 <0.2 36 5 228 AHA-45940 Kab Amira 552900 2919819 Chip channel 0.04 <0.2 37 4 34 AHA-45941 Kab Amira 552899 2919817 Chip channel 0.01 <0.2 20 5 68 AHA-45942 Kab Amira 552908 2919793 Grab 5.52 1.6 194 112 109 AHA-45943 Kab Amira 552907 2919789 Grab 15.10 4.4 364 326 160 AHA-45944 Kab Amira 552907 2919756 Grab 0.63 1.6 429 245 304 AHA-45945 Kab Amira 552921 2919739 Grab 2.22 1.6 250 296 146 AHA-45946 Kab Amira 552936 2919718 Grab 44.90 14.3 373 1,095 508 AHA-45947 Kab Amira 552929 2919734 Grab 1.95 10.4 723 1,285 874 AHA-45948 Kab Amira 553105 2922206 Grab 1.13 0.2 6 8 30 AHA-45949 Kab Amira 553104 2922351 Grab 3.33 0.7 21 5 195 AHA-45950 Kab Amira 553092 2922357 Grab 24.10 1.8 44 8 970 AHA-45951 Kab Amira 553100 2922355 Grab 0.95 0.2 14 2 597 Sample ID Project E N Sample type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) AHA-45952 Kab Amira 553100 2922354 Grab 9.52 0.7 23 7 649 AHA-45953 Kab Amira 553100 2922355 Grab 1.05 0.3 44 2 574 AHA-45954 Kab Amira 553092 2922356 Grab 2.68 0.8 32 5 496 AHA-45955 Kab Amira 553088 2922321 Chip channel 4.85 1.4 9 7 197 AHA-45956 Kab Amira 553088 2922321 Chip channel 0.80 0.3 17 3 395 AHA-45957 Kab Amira - - Duplicate of AHA-45956 0.80 0.4 17 3 373 AHA-45958 Kab Amira 553087 2922321 Chip channel 0.75 0.5 13 13 641 AHA-45959 Kab Amira 552986 2922598 Grab 29.80 5.2 102 140 946 AHA-45960 Kab Amira 552897 2922556 Grab 6.13 0.2 52 6 321 AHA-45961 Kab Amira 552927 2922564 Grab 2.90 0.4 9 1 19 AHA-45962 Kab Amira 553619 2922421 Grab 0.05 <0.2 158 10 14 AHA-45963 Kab Amira 553646 2922472 Grab 4.63 0.9 57 5 11 AHA-45964 Kab Amira 553643 2922501 Grab 3.55 0.4 6 3 4 AHA-45965 Kab Amira 553329 2922525 Grab 0.88 0.3 43 5 63 AHA-45966 Kab Amira 553333 2922532 Grab 1.43 0.3 141 9 31 AHA-45967 Kab Amira 553182 2922757 Grab 0.15 0.5 40 4 35 AHA-45968 Kab Amira 553180 2922753 Chip channel (single) 0.24 0.2 23 4 45 AHA-45969 Kab Amira 553549 2922131 Grab 0.45 <0.2 21 5 94 AHA-45970 Kab Amira 553670 2922084 Grab 2.81 0.4 17 2 21 AHA-45971 Kab Amira 553668 2922088 Grab 1.37 0.2 26 3 61 AHA-45972 Kab Amira 553172 2922855 Chip channel (single) 0.50 0.2 30 3 59 AHA-45973 Kab Amira 553173 2922842 Chip channel (single) 1.14 0.4 90 3 211 AHA-45974 Kab Amira 553189 2922807 Chip channel (single) 0.29 <0.2 19 3 67 AHA-45975 Kab Amira 552671 2922499 Grab 0.42 0.2 237 3 157 AHA-45976 Kab Amira 552660 2922526 Ore pile grab 0.16 1.4 114 2 120 AHA-45977 Kab Amira 552674 2922571 Grab 1.50 0.8 228 176 1,590 AHA-45978 Kab Amira 552686 2922580 Ore pile grab 3.35 0.8 106 17 832 AHA-45979 Kab Amira 552907 2922099 Chip channel (single) 0.67 0.2 16 10 109 AHA-45980 Kab Amira 552864 2922098 Grab 1.03 <0.2 18 9 97 AHA-45981 Kab Amira 552957 2922091 Grab composite 3.07 0.4 12 7 298 AHA-45982 Kab Amira 552987 2922079 Chip channel (single) 0.25 <0.2 124 10 59 AHA-45983 Kab Amira 552857 2922124 Grab 1.15 <0.2 10 5 35 AHA-45984 Kab Amira 552836 2922001 Grab 3.18 0.9 213 12 1,125 AHA-45985 Kab Amira 552625 2921583 Grab 0.04 <0.2 1,240 1 12 AHA-45986 Kab Amira 552121 2921884 Grab 1.23 1.8 84 10 278 AHA-45987 Kab Amira 551290 2921818 Grab 0.67 1.0 63 3 618 AHA-45988 Kab Amira 551325 2921843 Grab 0.03 0.2 9 1 102 AHA-45989 Kab Amira 551341 2921486 Grab 0.51 2.8 146 4 2,450 AHA-45990 Kab Amira 551495 2921867 Grab 1.23 12.9 212 11 533 AHA-45991 Kab Amira 551496 2921864 Grab composite 0.07 0.4 17 10 47 AHA-45992 Kab Amira 551808 2921857 Grab 0.02 <0.2 11 2 6 AHA-46000 Kab Amira 553236 2921813 Grab 0.20 <0.2 13 7 321 AHA-46001 Kab Amira 553235 2921817 Grab 1.68 0.6 89 31 1,825 AHA-46002 Kab Amira 553179 2921876 Grab 0.01 <0.2 78 3 19 AHA-46003 Kab Amira 552473 2921181 Grab 0.04 <0.2 28 9 15 AHA-46004 Kab Amira 552980 2920950 Grab 15.95 4.4 36 22 89 AHA-46005 Kab Amira 554044 2919922 Grab 4.63 1.3 63 59 238 AHA-46006 Kab Amira 554041 2919885 Grab 6.46 3.6 145 2,840 1,250 Sample ID Project E N Sample type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) AHA-46007 Kab Amira - - Blank 0.01 <0.2 6 7 141 AHA-46008 Kab Amira 552401 2919522 Grab 4.47 1.0 101 15 287 AHA-46009 Kab Amira 552419 2919481 Grab 0.03 <0.2 23 17 209 AHA-46010 Kab Amira 552351 2919564 Grab 1.54 0.4 12 3 50 AHA-46011 Kab Amira 552600 2920181 Grab composite 1.62 1.1 40 29 131 AHA-46012 Kab Amira 552718 2919987 Grab 1.34 1.3 101 85 975 AHA-46013 Kab Amira 552730 2919962 Grab 12.35 3.7 209 869 659 AHA-46014 Kab Amira 554474 2920804 Grab composite 4.73 2.8 429 4,200 3,140 AHA-46015 Kab Amira 554304 2920796 Grab 0.02 <0.2 13 19 27 AHA-46016 Kab Amira 554642 2921191 Grab composite 0.27 0.4 121 16 37 AHA-46017 Kab Amira 554644 2921203 Grab 2.33 0.4 18 4 18 AHA-46018 Kab Amira 554258 2921041 Grab 0.25 0.3 12 11 35 AHA-46019 Kab Amira 554438 2921269 Grab 3.00 1.2 512 5 51 AHA-46020 Kab Amira 554435 2921271 Grab 0.18 0.3 354 5 53 AHA-46021 Kab Amira 554432 2921264 Grab 0.03 <0.2 14 5 36 AHA-46022 Kab Amira 554530 2921342 Grab composite 7.51 1.5 310 11 41 AHA-46023 Kab Amira 554527 2921335 Grab composite 1.79 0.5 121 8 68 AHA-46024 Kab Amira 554184 2921699 Grab 0.09 <0.2 32 8 226 AHA-46025 Kab Amira 552843 2921555 Grab 9.41 3.5 153 1,255 1,390 AHA-46026 Kab Amira 552863 2921552 Grab 67.40 24.9 317 5,830 3,930 AHA-46027 Kab Amira - - Duplicate of AHA-46026 73.90 24.8 339 6,390 4,160 AHA-45690 Semna 558686 2924590 Grab 0.14 <0.2 35 n/a n/a AHA-45691 Semna 558512 2924254 Grab 0.01 0.5 305 n/a n/a AHA-46031 Semna 558645 2924613 Chip channel 0.42 3.6 6,690 4 92 AHA-46032 Semna 558643 2924614 Chip channel 0.09 <0.2 143 3 92 AHA-46050 Semna 558777 2924731 Chip channel 32.50 2.6 36 14 14 AHA-46051 Semna - - Blank 0.02 <0.2 5 6 114 AHA-46165 Semna 558911 2924667 Grab 2.22 0.4 176 5 26 AHA-46166 Semna 558387 2922580 Grab 0.25 0.2 21 8 6 AHA-46167 Semna 558329 2922531 Grab 1.08 0.3 146 6 9 AHA-46168 Semna 558880 2924599 Grab 0.13 1.7 15,260 9 111 AHA-46169 Semna 558938 2923925 Chip channel (single) 0.43 0.4 480 2 19 AHA-46170 Semna 558951 2923939 Chip channel (single) 36.30 34.8 28,960 5 35 AHA-46171 Semna 558951 2923939 Grab 125.0 56.8 32,550 3 20 AHA-46172 Semna 558543 2923609 Grab 0.48 0.6 349 5 273 AHA-46173 Semna 558539 2923608 Chip channel (single) 0.20 <0.2 183 2 18 AHA-46174 Semna 558539 2923607 Chip channel (single) 0.53 0.2 94 9 410 AHA-46175 Semna 558539 2923605 Grab 3.40 0.8 3,280 6 163 AHA-46176 Semna 558523 2923606 Chip channel (single) 0.02 <0.2 10 3 37 AHA-46177 Semna 559397 2924834 Chip channel (single) 4.48 4.0 553 10 734 AHA-46178 Semna 559306 2924403 Grab 1.03 0.2 6 4 11 AHA-46179 Semna 559083 2923871 Chip channel (single) 0.03 <0.2 20 3 27 AHA-46180 Semna 559087 2923867 Chip channel (single) 0.02 <0.2 31 4 52 AHA-46181 Semna 559083 2923866 Chip channel (single) 1.25 0.3 20 6 47 AHA-46182 Semna 558375 2923553 Grab 0.44 <0.2 30 5 49 AHA-46183 Semna 558665 2923446 Grab 3.24 2.3 1,505 3 369 AHA-46184 Semna 560040 2923416 Grab 5.07 1.8 11 n/a n/a AHA-46185 Semna 560084 2923853 Grab 7.01 1.8 2,750 n/a n/a Sample ID Project E N Sample type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) AHA-46186 Semna 559841 2923322 Grab 0.66 0.6 277 n/a n/a AHA-46187 Semna 560214 2923850 Grab 19.80 28.4 60 n/a n/a AHA-46188 Semna 560211 2923781 Grab 8.82 9.5 9 n/a n/a AHA-46201 Semna 559254 2924057 Grab 1.59 4.2 4,570 4 156 AHA-46202 Semna 559265 2924052 Grab 0.93 1.4 2,800 6 13,200 AHA-46203 Semna 559426 2923900 Chip channel (single) 1.66 0.5 644 9 570 AHA-46204 Semna 559420 2923904 Chip channel (single) 0.11 <0.2 45 5 109 AHA-46205 Semna 559415 2923901 Chip channel (single) 1.81 <0.2 87 4 39 AHA-46206 Semna 559408 2923899 Chip channel (single) 0.96 0.2 17 4 50 AHA-46207 Semna 559430 2923843 Chip channel (single) 0.01 <0.2 6 5 36 AHA-46208 Semna 559403 2923722 Chip channel (single) 0.12 0.9 18 38 77 AHA-46209 Semna 559403 2923740 Chip channel (single) 0.09 <0.2 13 8 39 AHA-46210 Semna 559229 2923692 Chip channel (single) 0.11 <0.2 23 7 102 AHA-46211 Semna 559223 2923682 Chip channel (single) 0.02 <0.2 35 7 122 AHA-46212 Semna 559168 2923477 Chip channel (single) 13.90 1.9 740 5 92 AHA-46213 Semna 559163 2923447 Chip channel (single) 0.35 0.2 863 7 91 AHA-45692 Zeno 551536 2925822 Grab 0.01 0.6 288 n/a n/a AHA-45693 Zeno 551819 2926326 Grab 0.23 0.2 160 n/a n/a AHA-45694 Zeno 550622 2926279 Grab 0.07 2.7 9,730 n/a n/a AHA-45695 Zeno 550808 2926606 Grab 0.04 0.7 11 n/a n/a AHA-45696 Zeno 551674 2926196 Grab 0.02 0.2 524 n/a n/a AHA-45697 Zeno 551910 2925780 Grab 1.53 0.6 11 n/a n/a AHA-45698 Zeno 552764 2925324 Grab 45.10 3.1 83 n/a n/a AHA-45699 Zeno 552812 2925588 Grab 1.43 0.3 71 n/a n/a AHA-45700 Zeno 551600 2926183 Grab 0.16 0.3 266 n/a n/a AHA-45701 Zeno 552786 2925562 Grab 0.09 <0.2 35 n/a n/a AHA-45702 Zeno 552729 2925634 Grab 0.07 0.4 82 n/a n/a AHA-45703 Zeno 552648 2925514 Ore pile grab 1.81 0.5 542 n/a n/a AHA-45704 Zeno 552501 2925281 Grab 0.15 <0.2 41 n/a n/a AHA-45705 Zeno 552581 2925451 Grab 1.40 <0.2 29 n/a n/a AHA-45706 Zeno 552549 2925678 Grab 0.06 <0.2 6 n/a n/a AHA-45707 Zeno 552661 2925781 Grab 0.01 <0.2 1 n/a n/a AHA-45708 Zeno 552778 2925658 Grab 0.69 <0.2 253 n/a n/a AHA-45709 Zeno 552977 2925636 Grab 0.03 <0.2 142 n/a n/a AHA-45710 Zeno 553046 2925515 Grab 4.71 0.5 30 n/a n/a AHA-45711 Zeno 552994 2925498 Grab 0.02 <0.2 11 n/a n/a AHA-45712 Zeno 551852 2926684 Grab 0.05 0.2 115 n/a n/a AHA-45713 Zeno 553059 2925438 Grab 26.90 3.1 826 n/a n/a AHA-45714 Zeno 553053 2925433 Grab 4.06 0.7 674 n/a n/a AHA-45715 Zeno 552825 2925848 Grab 4.27 0.5 110 n/a n/a AHA-45716 Zeno 552877 2925780 Grab 0.15 <0.2 46 n/a n/a AHA-45717 Zeno 552924 2925759 Grab 0.85 <0.2 267 n/a n/a AHA-45718 Zeno 552927 2926073 Grab 5.04 14.9 19,270 n/a n/a AHA-45719 Zeno 552866 2926152 Grab 0.07 0.9 5,170 n/a n/a AHA-45720 Zeno 552800 2926361 Grab 0.07 <0.2 175 n/a n/a AHA-45721 Zeno 552803 2926362 Grab 0.20 0.2 339 n/a n/a AHA-45722 Zeno 552671 2926211 Grab 0.03 <0.2 60 n/a n/a AHA-45723 Zeno 552717 2926248 Grab 0.02 <0.2 54 n/a n/a Sample ID Project E N Sample type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) AHA-45724 Zeno 552508 2926296 Grab 0.06 <0.2 20 n/a n/a AHA-45725 Zeno 552455 2926289 Grab 1.52 0.3 62 n/a n/a AHA-45726 Zeno 553258 2926196 Ore pile grab 0.56 0.2 178 n/a n/a AHA-45727 Zeno 553518 2924794 Grab 0.16 0.2 18 n/a n/a AHA-45728 Zeno 553461 2924959 Grab 0.26 <0.2 67 n/a n/a AHA-45729 Zeno 553992 2925742 Grab 0.40 <0.2 51 n/a n/a AHA-45730 Zeno 553972 2925742 Grab 5.15 3.5 244 n/a n/a AHA-45731 Zeno 553916 2925741 Grab 0.47 0.4 172 n/a n/a AHA-45732 Zeno 553830 2925934 Grab 0.68 0.3 8 n/a n/a AHA-45733 Zeno 553927 2925943 Grab 0.39 <0.2 168 n/a n/a AHA-45734 Zeno 553983 2925931 Grab 0.71 0.3 114 n/a n/a AHA-45735 Zeno 554048 2925987 Grab 0.07 <0.2 3 n/a n/a AHA-45736 Zeno 554158 2925902 Ore pile grab 0.36 <0.2 7 n/a n/a AHA-45737 Zeno 554200 2925919 Grab 0.02 <0.2 7 n/a n/a AHA-45738 Zeno 553914 2925878 Grab 0.26 <0.2 20 n/a n/a AHA-45739 Zeno 553816 2925812 Grab 2.92 0.6 94 n/a n/a AHA-45740 Zeno 553813 2925769 Ore pile grab 0.12 <0.2 6 n/a n/a AHA-45741 Zeno 554258 2925855 Grab 0.08 <0.2 30 n/a n/a AHA-45742 Zeno 554260 2925860 Grab 5.80 1.0 266 n/a n/a AHA-45743 Zeno 554233 2925859 Grab 0.14 0.5 646 n/a n/a AHA-45791 Zeno 554193 2925305 Grab 1.78 <0.2 57 n/a n/a AHA-45792 Zeno 554192 2925303 Grab 24.50 8.2 83 n/a n/a AHA-45793 Zeno 554253 2925262 Grab 1.72 <0.2 19 n/a n/a AHA-45794 Zeno 554644 2925500 Grab 0.61 <0.2 124 n/a n/a AHA-45795 Zeno 554096 2925155 Ore pile grab 8.81 2.3 82 n/a n/a AHA-45796 Zeno 552934 2924804 Ore pile grab 0.30 <0.2 44 n/a n/a AHA-45797 Zeno 554425 2924996 Grab 0.50 0.3 72 n/a n/a AHA-45798 Zeno - - Blank 0.01 <0.2 12 n/a n/a Notes: All coordinates are UTM (WGS84) Zone 36R Au analysed using Au-AA23 analytical code, overlimit assays >10 g/t re-analysed using Au-GRA21 analytical code n/a: not assayed

Appendix B: Sample location plans

Figure B3: Black Gaharish prospect - sampling location plan

Figure B4: Bohlog - Kab Amira (southern) prospects- sampling location plan

Figure B5: Kab Amira prospect - sampling location plan

Figure B6: Semna prospect - sampling location plan

Figure B7: Zeno prospect (north-western area) - sampling location plan

SOURCE: Aton Resources, Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Xplore Resources Corp. (TSXV: XPLR) ("Xplore" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of John Newell to the Xplore Board of Directors. Mr. Newell has over 35 years of capital markets experience, with nearly 25 years financing and managing successful resource exploration and development companies. He has an unbroken track record of delivering shareholder growth and is currently serving as President and CEO of Golden Sky Minerals Corp., a well-funded junior explorer focused on discovering new precious metal and copper projects in Canada. Mr. Newell is also a regular contributor and guest commentator for a range of mining and investment publications. He joins Xplore as the Company prepares to drill its flagship Surge lithium project in northern Ontario, Canada.

Dominic Verdejo, President, and CEO for Xplore, commented, "I am delighted to welcome John Newell to the Xplore Board of Directors, who joins at a very exciting time for the Company. As an expert in the junior resource sector, Mr. Newell's deep experience in resource company financing and leadership will further enhance Xplore's Board, and we look forward to working with him during what promises to be a catalyst-filled period of growth."

The Company also advises that it has closed the Surge North property transaction announced in its June 6, 2024 news release. The Company issued 1,500,000 common shares and paid $75,000 to the vendor of the property. The vendor retains a 2% NSR on the property, half of which can be purchased by the Company at any time for $750,000.

About Xplore Resources

Xplore Resources is a North American lithium exploration company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under symbol XPLR. The Company has a prospective land package in the emerging Root Bay lithium district located in northwest Ontario. Xplore's flagship property is the Surge lithium project, on trend and near two lithium deposits and just 25 m from a new lithium discovery. The Company is led by a highly experienced management team with a strong track record of growing shareholder value.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,

Dominic Verdejo, CEO

Xplore Resources Corp.

For further information on Xplore, contact:

Telephone: 604-678-5308

Email: info@xploreresources.com

Website: www.xploreresources.com

Neither the TSXV nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "anticipate," "significant," "expect," "may," "will" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify Forward-Looking Information. Forward-Looking Information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking information. In preparing the Forward-Looking Information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions that general business and economic conditions will not change in a materially adverse manner and all requisite information will be available in a timely manner. Factors that may cause actual results to vary materially include, but are not limited to, inaccurate assumptions concerning the exploration for and development of mineral deposits, currency fluctuations, unanticipated operational or technical difficulties, risks related to unforeseen delays; general economic, market or business conditions, regulatory changes; timeliness of regulatory approvals, the risks of obtaining necessary licenses and permits, changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets and the inability to raise additional financing. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this Forward-Looking Information. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update this Forward-Looking Information after the date of this release or to revise such information to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213525

SOURCE: Xplore Resources Corp.
Forward Water Technologies Corp. ("FWTC") (TSXV:FWTC) and Fraser Mackenzie Accelerator Corp. (the "MAC") (TSXV:FMAC.P) are pleased to announce that, further to their joint news release of May 14, 2024 announcing the proposed transaction between FWTC and FMAC (the "Transaction"), they continue to work to advance the Transaction.

Loan Advance

FMAC has advanced to FWTC an additional $25,000 by way of a secured loan (the "FMAC Loan"). The FMAC Loan shares a pari passu security ranking with FMAC's previous loan of to FWTC of $25,000 and with loans previously advanced by existing FWTC shareholders FirstLine Venture Partners Corporation and Sustainable Chemistry Alliance. The FMAC Loan will mature on December 31, 2024 and will bear interest at a rate of 20% per annum commencing on the date that is 120 days following the entering into of the definitive agreement to be entered into in connection with the Transaction, with no interest being charged prior to such date. FMAC has obtained TSXV approval to loan up to $225,000 to FWTC (inclusive of the $25,000 FMAC Loan).

FWTC and FMAC continue to work towards execution of the definitive agreement. The Transaction is intended to be FMAC's qualifying transaction for purposes of TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") policies. FWTC, after completion of the Transaction, is referred to as the "Resulting Issuer".

Concurrent Financing

In conjunction with the Transaction, FMAC proposes to raise a minimum of $1,400,000 in gross proceeds from the sale of FMAC subscription receipts (each, a "Subscription Receipt") at a price of $0.15 per Subscription Receipt (the "Concurrent Financing Price"). Each Subscription Receipt will entitle the holder to receive one FMAC common share (an "FMAC Share") and one-half of a FMAC common share purchase warrant, each whole such warrant (an "FMAC Warrant") will entitle the holder to purchase one FMAC Share at an exercise price of $0.20 at any time prior to the third anniversary of the issuance of such warrant.

The Transaction is proposed to occur following a 10 for 1 consolidation of the FWTC common shares: (a) the FMAC Shares (including, for greater certainty, the FMAC Shares issued upon exercise of the Subscription Receipts) will be exchanged on an approximately one for one basis for common shares in the capital of FWTC ("Resulting Issuer Shares") and the FMAC Warrants will be exchanged on an approximately one for one basis for common share purchase warrants of FWTC ("Resulting Issuer Warrants; and (b) the Resulting Issuer Shares will be listed on the TSXV. Assuming that $1,400,000 is raised in the Concurrent Financing, this will result in 97,127,920 pre-consolidation Resulting Issuer Shares (or 9,712,792 post-consolidation Resulting Issuer Shares) being issued to the investors in the concurrent financing on closing of the Transaction. The Concurrent Financing Price is equivalent to $0.0144 per FWTC Share on a pre-exchange, pre-consolidation basis, or $0.144 per FWTC Share on a pre-exchange, post-consolidation basis.

Further Information

For more information concerning the Transaction, see the Company's news release dated May 14, 2024. The parties will provide further details in respect of the Transaction in due course by way of press release in accordance with the requirements of the CPC Policy.

About Forward Water Technologies Corp.

Forward Water Technologies Corp. (TSX.V: FWTC) is a publicly traded Canadian company dedicated to saving the earth's water supply using its patented Forward Osmosis technology. The Company was founded by GreenCentre Canada, a leading technology innovation centre supported by the government of Canada. The Company's technology allows for the reduction of challenging waste streams simultaneously returning fresh water for re-use or surface release. The Company's mandate is to focus on the large-scale implementation of its technology in multiple sectors, including industrial wastewater, oil and gas, DLE, mining, agriculture and ultimately municipal water supply and re-use market sectors.

FWTC has immediate plans to treat brine from the direct lithium extraction (DLE) sector using is mobile pilot equipment this summer in conjunction with its partners. This project will establish FWTC's iFOTM technology as a valuable component in producing lithium carbonate from aquifer sourced brines for use in applications such as electric vehicle (EV) battery production.

In addition, the Company has initiated early-stage R&D for the treatment of food and beverage process streams.

For more information, please visit www.forwardwater.com.

About Fraser Mackenzie Accelerator Corp.

FMAC is a "capital pool company" which completed its initial public offering on February 22, 2023. The common shares of FMAC ("FMAC Shares") are listed for trading on the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. ("TSXV") under the stock symbol FMAC.P. FMAC has not commenced commercial operations and has no assets other than cash. It is intended that the Transaction, when completed, will constitute the "Qualifying Transaction" of FMAC pursuant to Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies (the "CPC Policy") of the TSXV.

Contact Information:

Fraser Mackenzie Accelerator Corp.

Philip Benson, President & Chief Executive Officer

Email: pbenson@frasermackenzie.com

Telephone: 416-818-6163

Forward Water Technologies Corp.

C. Howie Honeyman, Chief Executive Officer

E-mail: howie.honeyman@forwardwater.com

Telephone: (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.

Caution Concerning Forward Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "will", "estimates", "believes", "intends" "expects" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward looking statements concerning the Transaction, the Concurrent Financing, the Consolidation, the ability of FWTC and FMAC to meet the conditions of the Transaction in the required timeframes, the execution of a Definitive Agreement, obtaining the necessary exemptions and approvals from the TSXV or other regulatory bodies, including the business, name and function of the Resulting Issuer and certain financial information and forecasts. FWTC and FMAC caution that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of FWTC and FMAC, including expectations and assumptions concerning the FWTC, FMAC, the Resulting Issuer, the Transaction, the timely receipt of all required shareholder, court (if applicable) and regulatory approvals (as applicable), including the acceptance of the TSXV, the satisfaction of other closing conditions in accordance with the terms of the Definitive Agreement, as well as other risks and uncertainties, including those described in FWTC and FMAC's respective disclosure documents available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of FWTC and FMAC. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and neither FWTC nor FMAC undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by securities law.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

SOURCE: Forward Water Technologies Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Pampa Metals Corp. ("Pampa Metals" or the "Company") (CSE:PM)(FSE:FIRA)(OTCQB:PMMCF) is pleased to announce a fully subscribed non-brokered private placement (the "Placement") of 9,600,000 units ("Units") at a price of $0.27 per Unit for gross proceeds of $2,592,000 ("Proceeds"). Each Unit will consist of one fully paid common share and a half purchase warrant. Each whole warrant (a "Warrant") shall entitle the holder to acquire an additional common share at a price of $0.50 for a period of 3 years after the closing of the Placement.

The Placement has been fully subscribed by a natural resources fund.

Proceeds will fund continuing exploration at the Piuquenes Copper-Gold Porphyry Project, where the Company recently reported results from the third drillhole of its maiden program ( refer 23 May 2024 News Release ) including:

801 m @ 0.40% Cu, 0.51 g/t Au, 2.87 g/t Ag (from 54 to 855m (EOH))

including 518 m @ 0.53% Cu, 0.73 g/t Au, 3.45 g/t Ag (from 192 to 710)

including 176 m @ 0.71% Cu, 0.74 g/t Au, 4.86 g/t Ag (from 192 to 368)

including 64 m @ 0.75%, 1.2 g/t Au, 4.60 g/t Ag (554 to 618m)

including 32m @ 0.64% Cu, 0.71 g/t Au, 4.54 g/t Ag (642 to 674m)

In connection with the Placement, the Company will pay a finder's fee to Raymond James Ltd.

The anticipated closing date of the Placement is June 28, 2024.

Any securities issued in connection with the Placement will be subject to a four-month hold period, in accordance with securities laws and the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange, as applicable. The Placement is subject to CSE acceptance.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Joseph van den Elsen | President & CEO

INVESTOR CONTACT

Joseph van den Elsen | Joseph@pampametals.com

ABOUT PAMPA METALS

Pampa Metals is a copper-gold exploration company listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange (CSE:PM), Frankfurt (FSE: FIR), and OTC (OTCQB: PMMCF) exchanges.

In November 2023, the Company announced it had entered into an Option and Joint Venture Agreement for the acquisition of an 80% interest in the Piuquenes Copper-Gold Porphyry Project in San Juan Province, Argentina.

Qualified Person

Technical information in this news release has been approved by Mario Orrego G. Mr. Orrego G. is a Geologist, a Registered Member of the Chilean Mining Commission and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Orrego G. is a consultant to the Company.

Neither the CSE nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT

This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events or developments that Pampa Metals expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will" or "may" occur. These statements are subject to various risks. Although Pampa Metals believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guaranteeing of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: Pampa Metals Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
The prospectus supplement, the corresponding base shelf prospectus and any amendment to the documents will be accessible through SEDAR+ within two business days.

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Hybrid Power Solutions Inc. (CSE: HPSS) (FSE: E092) ("Hybrid" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered prospectus financing of units (the "Units") consisting of up to 3,000,000 Units at $0.20 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $600,000 (the "Offering"). Each Unit will be comprised of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant of the Company (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one Common Share (a "Warrant Share") at an exercise price of $0.25 per Warrant Share for a period of 24 months from closing of the Offering, subject to acceleration.

The acceleration clause of the Warrants will provide that if the volume weighted average price of the Common Shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") (or such other stock exchange where the majority of the trading volume occurs) exceeds $0.35 for a period of five consecutive trading days between the closing date of the Offering and the expiry of the Warrants, then the Company may at any time, in its discretion, accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants by providing written notice to the Warrant holders via news release. If the Company provides such acceleration notice, then any unexercised Warrants will expire on the 30th day after the date on which the news release is disseminated.

The Offering will be subscribed to by 'accredited investors' under applicable securities laws, and the Company will be entering into formal subscription agreements with each investor to purchase the Units.

The Company may pay finders' fees to eligible finders in accordance with applicable securities laws and the policies of the CSE. The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Offering for general working capital and corporate purposes.

The Units will be qualified under a shelf prospectus supplement (the "Prospectus Supplement") to be filed with the securities commissions in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Manitoba, and Newfoundland and Labrador, prior to closing and in accordance with National Instrument 44-101 Short Form Prospectus Distributions and National Instrument 44-102 Shelf Distributions. The Offering will be made only by means of the Prospectus Supplement and the accompanying base shelf prospectus dated March 14, 2024 (the "Shelf Prospectus"). Access to the Prospectus Supplement and the corresponding Shelf Prospectus and any amendment thereto is provided in accordance with securities legislation relating to procedures for providing access to a shelf prospectus supplement, a base shelf prospectus and any amendment. Complete details of the Offering will be set out in the Prospectus Supplement, and when available (within 2 business days from the date hereof), the Prospectus Supplement together with the Shelf Prospectus can be obtained under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. An electronic or paper copy of the Prospectus Supplement, the corresponding Shelf Prospectus and any amendment to the documents may be obtained, without charge, from the Company by contacting Francois Byrne, CEO of the Company at invest@hybridps.ca.

The Offering is expected to close on or about July 5, 2024 and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals and listings, including fulfilling applicable requirements of the CSE.

The Company also announces that it will not be proceeding with the balance of its previously announced offering of units under the Company's prospectus supplement dated April 17, 2024, to the Shelf Prospectus, pursuant to which Hybrid raised aggregate proceeds of $541,800. Please see the Company's news releases dated April 16, 2024 and June 4, 2024 for additional information.

The securities referenced in this news release 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 applicable state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to "U.S. persons" (as such term is defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) absent such registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy such securities in any jurisdiction.

On behalf of the Company

Francois Byrne

CEO and Director

invest@hybridps.ca

1 (866) 549-2743

www.investhps.com

About Hybrid Power Solutions Inc.

Hybrid Power Solutions Inc. is a Canadian clean energy company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol "HPSS". Hybrid specializes in the development of sustainable energy solutions, offering products that redefine how industries approach access to power and energy storage. With a focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, HPS continues to lead the way in providing scalable, cost-effective power solutions.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the terms of the Offering and Units, terms of the Warrant acceleration clause, filing of the Prospectus Supplement, use of proceeds, payment of any finder's fees, the closing date of the Offering and receipt of all necessary regulatory and CSE approvals. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "will", "will be", "intends", "expected" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management of the Company, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different, including receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended including without limitation those factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Shelf Prospectus and the Prospectus Supplement and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on SEDAR+. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213555

SOURCE: Hybrid Power Solutions Inc.
DataGuard, a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) company for security and compliance, is excited to announce the appointment of Johannes Kamleitner as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO). In this role, Kamleitner, based in Vienna, will oversee all revenue operations for the company, guiding DataGuard's multinational sales organization and driving its go-to-market strategy.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240619922966/en/

Johannes Kamleitner DataGuard (Photo: Business Wire)

Kamleitner brings a wealth of experience in building and leading high-performing sales and marketing teams within the SaaS technology sector. He joins DataGuard from N-Able (formerly SolarWinds MSP), where he served as Group VP Sales for APAC, EMEA, and LATAM. His prior roles at GFI software included Interim GM, CRO, and SVP Global Sales, where he was instrumental in driving global vision and strategy across sales, marketing, product, engineering, and finance. His expertise will be critical in propelling DataGuard through its next growth phase following the notable acquisition of Stockholm-based privacy management software company, DPOrganizer.

"I am thrilled to be joining DataGuard and look forward to contributing to its journey," said Kamleitner. "Serving all our customers to help them mitigate risks and achieve compliance is a top priority. The DataGuard platform is an excellent product for organizations of all sizes seeking a robust security and compliance solution. I am eager to get started and together with my teams make a significant impact."

Kamleitner will report to Thomas Regier, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of DataGuard. Regier commented: "We are excited to welcome Johannes to the team. His expertise aligns perfectly with DataGuard's ambitious mission of providing 100,000 customers with a best-in-class security and compliance offering. Johannes' leadership will be a crucial contributor to our growth trajectory. We are thrilled to have him on board."

About DataGuard

DataGuard is a security and compliance software company trusted by more than 4,000 organizations across the globe. Customers use the platform to build up scalable risk management while getting certified fast and complying effortlessly with industry regulations and frameworks such as ISO 27001, TISAX, NIS2, SOC2, GDPR, and the EU Whistleblower Directive. DataGuard's purpose-built software suite offers AI-powered workflow automation and seamless integration capabilities, reducing the time and money companies spend to build a digital Information Security Management System (ISMS) and Compliance Management System (CMS). DataGuard empowers organizations active in 50+ countries to better understand, identify, and manage the risks that matter most to them and to build up a robust security and compliance posture that allows them to stay ahead of their evolving business and regulatory needs.

TISAX is a registered trademark of the ENX Association. DataGuard is not affiliated with the ENX Association. We provide Software-as-a-Service and support for the assessment on TISAX only. The ENX Association does not take any responsibility for any content shown on DataGuard's website.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240619922966/en/

Contacts:

pr@dataguard.com
LONDON, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The shipping community is appalled and deeply saddened with the tragic news that, yet another seafarer seems certain to have been killed in a drone boat strike on Wednesday 12 June while on board the MV Tutor in the Red Sea. We utterly condemn these assaults which directly contravene the fundamental principle of freedom of navigation.

Our thoughts and condolences go to the family and loved ones of the seafarer who tragically lost their life. It is deplorable that innocent seafarers are being attacked while simply performing their jobs, vital jobs which keep the world warm, fed, and clothed.

This is the second fatal attack in which our seafarers have been caught in the crosshairs of geopolitical conflicts. Three seafarers tragically lost their lives when the True Confidence was attacked earlier this year. And we must not forget the crew members from the Galaxy Leader and MSC Aries who are still being held captive.

Furthermore, we strongly condemn the attack on the cargo ship Verbena on Thursday 13 June which left a seafarer severely injured by anti-ship cruise missiles.

This is an unacceptable situation, and these attacks must stop now. We call for States with influence in the region to safeguard our innocent seafarers and for the swift de-escalation of the situation in the Red Sea. We have heard the condemnation and appreciate the words of support, but we urgently seek action to stop the unlawful attacks on these vital workers and this vital industry.

We hope that on this year's Day of The Seafarer on Tuesday 25 June the world takes a moment to recognise the immense contribution that seafarers make to the global economy and the unjust circumstances they are facing in the Red Sea and across the world.

Please kindly see below the full list of co-signatories to this statement.

Asian Shipowners' Association (ASA), BIMCO, Cruise Lines international Association (CLIA), European Community Shipowners' Association (ECSA), INTERMANAGER, International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO), International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), International Federation of Shipmasters' Associations (IFSMA), International Maritime Employers' Council (IMEC), International Maritime Pilots' Association (IMPA), International Parcel Tankers Association (IPTA), INTERTANKO, The Federation of National Associations of Ship Brokers and Agents (FONASBA), World Shipping Council (WSC).

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/shipping-industry-calls-for-action-following-the-attack-on-the-mv-tutor-and-cargo-ship-verbena-302176793.html
China's visa-free policy widens opportunities for personnel exchanges with New Zealand, Australia

Xinhua) 16:41, June 19, 2024

WELLINGTON/CANBERRA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand and Australian citizens will find it easier to explore the wonders of China thanks to a recent development that has significantly simplified travel requirements.

During his just-concluded visits to New Zealand and Australia, Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced that China will include these two Oceanian nations in its list of unilateral visa-free countries. This means that New Zealand and Australian passport holders will be able to enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit, for up to 15 days.

The effect of this decision was immediate. Just half an hour after the announcement, the number of people in Australia searching for China-related keywords on the international tourism platform Trip.com surged by over 80 percent compared to the previous day.

Visas have long been considered a pain point for travel due to their often complex procedures and added costs. Removing the barrier is a welcome change for the travel industry, Anthony Spark, director of South Australia-based travel agency Spark Travel, told Xinhua.

Echoing Spark, other tourism experts and industry representatives enthusiastically embrace the simplified travel requirements, saying it will enhance tourism and people-to-people exchanges.

David Su, a long-time tourism practitioner living in New Zealand, believes the decision will facilitate travel, while also creating a new growth opportunity for outbound tourism from New Zealand, making it easier for New Zealanders to enter China or transit through.

New Zealand anticipates a tourism boost to China from October this year, Li Ruiqin, managing director of China Travel Service in New Zealand, said.

New Zealand's leading tourism companies and agencies have been exploring the Chinese market since early this year, Li said.

"They are stunned by delicious and diversified Chinese food, the efficiency of high-speed trains and the boom of electric cars in the cities during their trip to China," he said.

For Australians, there is no doubt that the decision will encourage them to consider China for their next trip, Spark said.

"China is a very accessible country for Australians with many great tour packages, including cruise and land options, available to book. I would also expect people with extended family or friends in China to now look favorably towards China for their next holiday," he said.

During Premier Li's meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday, the two sides agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to multi-entry visas of up to three to five years' duration for tourism, business and visiting family members.

Songshan Huang, a professor of tourism at Edith Cowan University in Western Australia, said: "Accordingly, we will also expect a higher volume of reversed tourist flow from China to Australia."

During talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on June 13, Premier Li also expressed hope for New Zealand to facilitate Chinese citizens' travel to the country.

China was New Zealand's second-largest visitor market after Australia before the pandemic. It remained a critically important visitor market for New Zealand in the past 12 months, said Gregg Wafelbakker, general manager Asia at Tourism New Zealand.

The latest visa policy is a sincere gesture that China would like to further its people-to-people exchanges with other countries, Huang said.

Bilateral tourism exchanges are all about "getting to know each other and forging personal relationships, which then lead to securing further connections such as business and cultural exchanges. Friendly encounters are where it all begins and where the benefits abound," said professor Chris Ryan from the School of Management and Marketing Operations at the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Plurilock Security Inc. (TSXV: PLUR, OTCQB: PLCKF) ("Plurilock" or the "Company"), a global cybersecurity services and solutions provider, announces the signing of a US$6.16 million, five year contract with the United States Department of the Treasury.

The contract, which includes a US$1.07 million base first year and four subsequent option years through Q4 2028, is for the provision of Microsoft Unified services and support to the Department, including AI Azure services and support. The contract was awarded through Aurora Systems Consulting subsidiary.

"There is an increasing threat against computer systems throughout the world and Plurilock strives to improve the security status of public and private organizations," said Plurilock CEO Ian L. Paterson. "Our operations through Aurora are key to obtaining and expanding our relationships within these organizations, especially with large government customers who have historically been stable buyers of IT throughout all economic environments."

About Plurilock

Plurilock sells cybersecurity solutions to the United States and Canadian Federal Governments along with Global 2000 companies. Through these relationships, Plurilock sells its unique brand of Critical Services-aiding clients with our expertise to defend against, detect, and prevent costly data breaches and cyberattacks.

For more information, visit https://www.plurilock.com or contact:

Ian L. Paterson

Chief Executive Officer

ian@plurilock.com

416.800.1566

Ali Hakimzadeh

Executive Chairman

ali@sequoiapartners.ca

604.306.5720

Sean Peasgood

Investor Relations

sean@sophiccapital.com

647.953.5607

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the TSX Venture Exchange policies) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") related to future events or Plurilock's future business, operations, and financial performance and condition. Forward-looking statements normally contain words like "will", "intend", "anticipate", "could", "should", "may", "might", "expect", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "potential", "project", "assume", "contemplate", "believe", "shall", "scheduled", and similar terms. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, actions, or developments and are based on expectations, assumptions, and other factors that management currently believes are relevant, reasonable, and appropriate in the circumstances. Although management believes that the forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, actual results could be substantially different due to the risks and uncertainties associated with and inherent to Plurilock's business. Additional material risks and uncertainties applicable to the forward-looking statements herein include, without limitation, the impact of general economic conditions, and unforeseen events and developments. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the Company's forward-looking statements. Many of these factors are beyond the control of Plurilock. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as at the date hereof, and Plurilock undertakes no obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in its most recent Annual Information Form. They are otherwise disclosed in its filings with securities regulatory authorities available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213539

SOURCE: Plurilock Security Inc.
Thunder Bay, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Benton Resources Inc. (TSXV: BEX) ("Benton" or the "Company") is pleased to report that the Killick Lithium Property, jointly owned by the Company, Sokoman Minerals Corp. ("Sokoman"), and Piedmont Lithium Inc. ("Piedmont") through Vinland Lithium Inc., will be collaborating in a total of $1.322 million in NSERC (Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada) grants to conduct research studies on the Killick Lithium Property in southern Newfoundland. The three-year project entitled; "The origin of lithium resources in Southern Newfoundland", began April 1, 2024. The work is led by researchers from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia and Memorial University of Newfoundland. Additional contributions from partner organizations will include staff and resources from Sokoman, Benton and Piedmont, as well as geoscientists from the Geological Survey (Government of Newfoundland and Labrador). The grant was awarded by the NSERC Alliance Missions Grants special call for projects related to Critical Minerals Research. To increase the supply of responsibly sourced critical minerals and support the development of domestic and global value chains for the green and digital economy, Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy was released in December 2022 with the intent of continuing to provide foundational support to Canada's mining sector to take advantage of existing and emerging opportunities. Among the 31 minerals that Canada considers critical, Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy identified six minerals (including lithium) which were initially prioritized for their distinct potential to spur Canadian economic growth and their necessity as inputs for priority supply chains.

More information about the program can be found here: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Innovate-Innover/AllianceMissions-MissionsAlliance/CFP-ADP/CMR-RSLMC/Index_eng.asp

A key benefit of this research will be the opportunity for research students to receive academic training and apply their knowledge to an active exploration project. The students will be trained in field methods, data collection techniques, and scientific communication - highly sought after skills required for qualified geoscientists to undertake mineral exploration and geoscience research on critical mineral systems in Canada.

Timothy Froude, P. Geo., President and CEO of Sokoman Minerals states; "We are thrilled this academic collaboration was awarded this substantial amount of funding directed towards the understanding the lithium and associated critical minerals systems we discovered on the Killick Lithium Project. It's the type of work that rarely gets performed on mineral discoveries as most of the funds raised and spent in the normal course of the vast majority of exploration projects, is focused on delivering assays and drill results to the market. To add the in-depth research that the teams led by Dr. Donnelly Archibald at St. Francis Xavier University; Drs Eric Thiessen and David Lowe at Memorial University, in harmony with the partner organizations, will certainly aid in our search for additional lithium and associated critical minerals at Killick as well as regionally."

Stephen Stares, President and CEO of Benton states, "We are elated that such a highly skilled team of professionals will assist in advancing the understanding of our discovery through the critical metal's initiatives set forth by our various institutions. We look forward to the findings in our collective participation."

The main research objective is to better understand the geological controls on the formation of lithium-rich rocks in southern Newfoundland to better inform exploration targeting practices and promote lithium discovery. Addressing this primary objective involves a multidisciplinary investigation into (i) the processes controlling the transport of lithium from its source to host rocks, (ii) the magmatic emplacement processes that resulted in the formation of the lithium-rich rocks, (iii) the lithium source(s), (iv) structure and deformation that controls the present expression of lithium-rich rocks, and (v) the character and extent of associated metamorphic aureoles. The combination of field work, mineralogy, geochronology, geochemistry, structural geology, regional geology, tectonics, sedimentology, and economic geology will yield a holistic model for the evolution of lithium pegmatite systems. Taken together, the new data and interpretations coupled with the spatiotemporal relationship of regional geological context will help us to understand the petrogenesis of lithium pegmatites in southern Newfoundland.

QP

Stephen House (P.Geo.), Vice President of Exploration for Benton Resources Inc., the 'Qualified Person' under National Instrument 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release and prepared or supervised its preparation.

About Benton Resources Inc.

Benton Resources is a well-financed mineral exploration company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol BEX. Benton has a diversified, highly prospective property portfolio and holds large equity positions in other mining companies that are advancing high-quality assets. Whenever possible, BEX retains net smelter return (NSR) royalties with potential long-term cash flow.

Benton is focused on advancing its high-grade Copper-Gold Great Burnt Project in central Newfoundland, which has a Mineral Resource estimate of 667,000 tonnes @ 3.21% Cu Indicated and 482,000 @ 2.35% Cu Inferred. The Project has an excellent geological setting covering 25km of strike and boasts six known Cu-Au-Ag zones over 15km that are all open for expansion. Further potential for discovery is excellent given the extensive number of untested geophysical targets and Cu-Au soil anomalies. Phase 1 and 2 drill programs returned impressive results including 25.42 m of 5.51% Cu, including 9.78 m of 8.31% Cu, and 1.00 m of 12.70% Cu.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Benton Resources Inc.,

"Stephen Stares"

Stephen Stares, President

Parties interested in seeking more information about properties available for option can contact Mr. Stares at the number below.

For further information, please contact:

Stephen Stares, President & CEO

Phone: 807-474-9020

Email: sstares@bentonresources.ca

Nick Konkin, Investor Relations

Phone: 647-249-9298 ext. 322

Email: nick@grovecorp.ca

Website: www.bentonresources.ca

Twitter: @BentonResources

Facebook: @BentonResourcesBEX

THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE HAS NOT REVIEWED AND DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements."

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to gold price and other commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213564

SOURCE: Benton Resources Inc.
Redgate Software, the end-to-end Database DevOps solution provider, today announced the successful acquisition of DB-Engines, a valued, independent source of objective data in the database management systems market.

This strategic acquisition reflects Redgate's commitment to providing the database community with unparalleled content, events, community websites, and market insights, with an increasing focus on supporting multiple database platforms.

DB-Engines will retain its branding and identity, ensuring that its users continue to receive the trusted and independent monthly database ranking reports and detailed database insights they have come to rely on. DB-Engines will join the wide selection of community assets Redgate provides, including Simple Talk, SQLServerCentral, and the PASS Data Community Summit and each will mutually benefit from shared insights and data.

"Redgate's acquisition of DB-Engines reinforces our mission to support the database community with valuable resources and insights, as we continue to empower and educate development teams, operations teams, and business leaders," said Jakub Lamik, CEO at Redgate. "Our mission is to help data professionals get the most value out of any database, anywhere, and acquiring DB-Engines aligns perfectly with these goals, ensuring that our community can stay ahead of the curve in this dynamic, information-dense database business landscape."

"Over the last 13 years, DB-Engines has grown to become a key reference point for understanding trends and shifts in the database market. We are very pleased to pass the site into the capable hands of Redgate, a company that shares our dedication to the database community," said Paul Andlinger, co-founder of DB-Engines and owner of IT consultancy Solid IT.

Matthias Gelbmann, co-founder of DB-Engines and owner of IT consultancy Solid IT, added, "We are confident that DB-Engines will continue to thrive under Redgate's stewardship, and that the site will remain committed to providing objective, independent data and insights to our users."

Deepening industry insights across database platforms

DB-Engines has been an independent source of objective data around database management system industry trends, market analysis, and data-driven insights since it was created in 2011. As Redgate's State of the Database Landscape report revealed, today's IT teams are working across a growing number of database platforms, with the majority (79%) using more than one database platform, and 29% of respondents using more than five. By integrating DB-Engines' expertise and data into Redgate's ecosystem, customers and the database community will benefit from reliable, useful information that they can use to make robust decisions and gather recommendations for future database usage.

Redgate is committed to maintaining the quality and integrity of DB-Engines' offerings, ensuring that it remains an invaluable resource for database professionals worldwide, and plans to develop and build on the site over time, adding further content, reviewing the research methodology, and providing both visitors and advertisers the opportunity to deepen relationships with industry vendors, influencers, and the community.

The acquisition is asset-only and formally completed on May 21, 2024.

Resources

DB-Engines

Redgate's history

Solid IT

About Redgate Software

Redgate offers end-to-end database DevOps to help enterprises streamline software development and surface value from their data faster.

Redgate's portfolio of solutions helps organizations reliably solve the complex challenges of database management across the DevOps lifecycle on any database, any platform, anywhere. We make life easier for IT leaders, development and operations teams, increasing efficiency, reducing errors and protecting business-critical data.

More than 200,000 companies globally, including 92% of the Fortune 100, trust Redgate to deliver ingeniously simple software.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240619678935/en/

Contacts:

Meghana Shendrikar

Allison Worldwide for Redgate Software

redgate@allisonworldwide.com
New research from Peninsula Group shows the impact that mental health is having on small and medium-sized businesses.

The global HR, employment law and health safety consultancy surveyed 79,000 businesses across Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, revealing a 140% increase year-on-year in the number of employers seeing the impact from poor mental health across their workforce.

Alan Price, Peninsula Group Chief Operations Officer, says, "Mental health is now the leading cause of absence, with an estimated 17.1 million days lost to mental health in the UK alone1. We wanted to understand more the pressures that SME owners are under, and the real life impact this epidemic is having on businesses around the world.

"The Lancet Commission estimates that by 2030 the cost to global business from mental health will reach $16 trillion3. So it's critical that employers take this seriously. Healthy employees make for healthy workplaces, so it's encouraging to see many employers are comfortable discussing both their own and their employees' mental health. SMEs around the world are under pressure like never before, and the impact this has cannot be underestimated.

"With increased pressure on traditional health services, more businesses are turning to EAPs to provide meaningful and immediate support to their employees. With an average ROI of 10:12 they are an affordable and financially viable way of offering meaningful support. And it's good to see bosses leading from the front, with a 24% YoY increase in the number of employers using the company EAP when they themselves are struggling.

"There is still work to be done to ensure that global workplaces are healthy and happy, both physically and mentally, but it's clear that progress is being made. The willingness of people to speak about mental health concerns and a change in workplace attitude towards them are major steps in the right direction."

Key findings include:

A 30% increase in the number of employers experiencing poor mental health

in the number of employers experiencing poor mental health Canadian employers are three times more likely to take time off work due to mental health than UK bosses; twice as likely as Irish employers

due to mental health than UK bosses; twice as likely as Irish employers Mental health related sickness absence increased 20% in the last 12 months

in the last 12 months Australia saw the biggest increase YoY, with 43% more employers reporting increased sickness absence than this time last year

reporting increased sickness absence than this time last year 40% more employers offer support for mental health

offer support for mental health 1 in 5 UK SME owners and managers have experienced mental health issues, compared to 1 in 10 last year

and managers have experienced mental health issues, compared to 1 in 10 last year 63% increase in the number of SMEs with mental health first aiders in place

in the number of SMEs with mental health first aiders in place Employers in the UK and IRE are bucking the trend on work/life balance, both countries saw a decrease in the number citing it as a priority

Mental health days

Our data found that Canadian and Kiwi employers are most likely to offer mental health days in addition to personal leave entitlement than any other. In comparison, 83% of employers in the UK, 83% in Ireland, and 77% in Australia do not offer mental health days or plan to introduce them in the next 12 months.

Whilst 'duvet days' certainly generate headlines; most SMEs do not believe that they are the answer to addressing mental health concerns. And the results look a lot different when compared to how much annual leave employees in each country get.

Workers in the UK are entitled to 5.6 weeks paid annual leave, whereas in Canada the standard is between 2-3 weeks. So it's no surprise that Canadian employers are almost 4 times as likely to offer additional mental health days on top of this than UK employers.

Employers in New Zealand are the most generous, with 20% offering mental health days in addition to the four weeks' annual leave entitlement. Another 16% plan to introduce them in the next 12 months.

Work/life balance

The percentage of SME owners and managers prioritising work/life balance fell in the both the UK and Ireland, as the drive to get people back into the workplace full time continues. However it rose by at least 50% across Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Employer support

Globally there was a 66% YoY increase in the number of businesses who have introduced mental health first aiders to the workplace, with Ireland seeing an 86% YoY increase.

40% of UK businesses have introduced more support measures and 20% have mental health first aiders in place double that of all the other countries surveyed.

Significant steps have also been taken in Canada and Australia. There was a 52% YoY increase in the number of Australian businesses providing mental health first aiders, and a 76% YoY increase in support measures across Canadian workplaces.

Worryingly when people do speak out about their mental health, 1 in 3 of those who spoke to their boss said that nothing was done. One respondent commented Whilst I am confident supporting employees, I am not confident raising issues I personally have. As a long-tenured manager, I feel my needs are overlooked/brushed over, whilst support and adjustments are offered to younger colleagues.

Absence

Mental health related absence rose 21% globally over the last year, including significant increases in both Canada and Australia. However both the UK and Ireland reported a decrease in sickness absence year on year, a potential indicator of presenteeism creeping back into the workplace.

Notes to editor

Full survey data and in-depth analysis is available to download at www.peninsulagrouplimited.com/resource-hub/business-advice/uk-lagging-in-mental-health-conversations/

Alan Price, COO at Peninsula Group Global, is available for interview.

Method of survey

The survey was conducted from 13-20 May 2024 across Peninsula Group's global client base.

Other resources

1 Health and safety statistics 2022 (hse.gov.uk)

2 EAPA-ROI-Report-2023.pdf

3 Lancet Commission_policy brief_MHIN2.v3.pdf (mhinnovation.net)

www.healthassured.org/review-of-ha-2023-service-trends/

About Peninsula Group

Across the globe, Peninsula Group supports employers through their toughest workplace challenges. Each day, small business owners face hurdles of all different sizes. From HR to health safety, technology to tax advice, the Peninsula Group companies have got you covered, providing familiar reassurance, expert knowledge, and practical solutions to keep you compliant. It's how more than 140,000 employers around the world reduce their legal risk and free up more time for their business.

www.peninsulagroupglobal.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240619266656/en/

Contacts:

Miriam Payne Associate Director of Group PR and Comms

T: 07929 711809 E: Miriam.payne@peninsula-uk.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Velocity Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: VLC) ("Velocity" or the "Company") reports the results of its annual general meeting (the "Meeting") of shareholders held on June 18, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia. All the motions presented to the shareholders were approved.

Votes representing 149,815,984 shares were cast, representing 76.36% of the issued and outstanding shares at the record date. A summary of the Meeting results is outlined below.

Motion Votes for the Motion Percentage of Votes in Favour Number of Directors 149,550,960 99.82% Keith Henderson 149,540,746 99.82% Mark Cruise 149,540,746 99.82% Daniel Marinov 149,540,746 99.82% Gerrie van der Westhuizen 149,805,770 99.99% Michelle Roth 149,540,960 99.82% Appointment of Auditor 149,815,984 100% Ratification and Approval of Stock Option Plan 149,264,960 99.63%

About Velocity Minerals Ltd.

Velocity is a precious metal and copper explorer focused in Europe. In Bulgaria, Velocity has a 70% interest in the Tintyava property, which includes the prefeasibility-stage Rozino deposit. Velocity also has a 70% interest in the Momchil property (which includes the Obichnik project), a 70% interest in the Nadezhda property (which includes the Makedontsi project), and a 70% interest in the Dangovo property (which is contiguous with the Makedontsi project). The Company holds a 100% interest in the Iglika copper-gold exploration property. The Company has entered into an agreement to acquire a 75% interest in the Zlatusha copper-gold exploration property.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

"Keith Henderson"

President & CEO

For further information, please contact:

Keith Henderson

Phone: +1-604-484-1233

E-mail: info@velocityminerals.com

Web: www.velocityminerals.com

Neither the 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.

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "may", "will", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that market fundamentals will result in sustained precious metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future development of the Property in a timely manner, the availability of financing on suitable terms for the development, construction and continued operation of the Property, and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development and mine development activities at the Property, estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, requirements for additional capital, future prices of precious metals and copper, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, possible failures of plants, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays or the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including TSX Venture Exchange acceptance, financing or other planned activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims limitations on insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics such as COVID-19, including the impact of COVID-19 on the Company's business, risks related to joint venture operations, and risks related to the integration of acquisitions, as well as those factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's latest Management Discussion and Analysis and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.com.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release or incorporated by reference herein.

- 30 -

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213548

SOURCE: Velocity Minerals Ltd.
Pegasus Resources Inc. (TSXV:PEGA)(Frankfurt:0QS2)(OTC PINK:SLTFF) (the "Company" or "Pegasus") is pleased to announce that all resolutions were passed at the Annual General Meeting held on June 18, 2024.

The four nominees to be elected as directors listed in the Company's information circular dated May 14, 2024, were elected as directors of the Company for the ensuing year and the number of directors was fixed at four. Christian Timmins, Dave Bissoondatt, Noah Komavli and Derrick Strickland were all elected as directors of the Company by a majority of the votes cast by shareholders present or represented by proxy at the meeting.

Crowe MacKay LLP of Vancouver, British Columbia will remain as the auditor of the Company for the ensuing year until the next annual general meeting at a remuneration to be fixed by the directors. The Company's 10% rolling stock option plan also received the required shareholder approval.

About Pegasus Resources Inc.

Pegasus Resources Inc. is a diversified Junior Canadian Mineral Exploration Company with a focus on uranium, gold and base metal properties in North America. The Company is also actively pursuing the right opportunity in other resources to enhance shareholder value. For additional information please visit the Company at www.pegasusresourcesinc.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Christian Timmins

President, CEO and Director

Pegasus Resources Inc.

700 - 838 West Hastings Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 0A6

PH: 1-604-369-8973

E: info@pegasusresourcesinc.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Pegasus Resources Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

Prismo Metals Inc. ("Prismo" or the "Company") (CSE:PRIZ)(OTCQB:PMOMF) is pleased to announce that further to its news release dated June 11, 2024, the Company has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") for gross proceeds of $1,147,500 through the issuance of 6,750,000 units of the Company ("Units").

Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of the Company (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share in the capital of the Company for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of issue at an exercise price of $0.25.

"We welcome several new investors as shareholders of Prismo Metals," said CEO Alain Lambert. "We look forward to getting the next phase of drilling on the way at our silver project Palos Verdes and finalizing the permitting for the upcoming drill campaign at our Hot Breccia copper project in Arizona."

"Completion of the financing brings us one step closer to drilling at Hot Breccia. This project is a rare opportunity to test a highly prospective target in one of the best locations possible. This is the right project at the right time, and I am personally very excited to get the drill turning to test the target our team has identified" stated Steve Robertson, President of Prismo Metals.

The Company intends to use the proceeds from the Private Placement to fund drilling at its Palos Verdes project, and for general working capital purposes. There may be circumstances, however, when, for sound business reasons, a reallocation of funds may be necessary.

In connection with the Private Placement, the Company issued an aggregate of 198,449 finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrants") and paid finder's commissions in the aggregate of $32,441.49 to certain qualified finders. Each Finder's Warrant is exercisable for a period of 24 months from the date of issuance into one Share of the Company at a price of $0.25.

All securities issued in connection with the Private Placement are subject to a four-month hold period from the closing date under applicable Canadian securities laws, in addition to such other restrictions as may apply under applicable securities laws of jurisdictions outside Canada.

Debt Settlement Transaction

The Company also announces that it has closed its previously announced debt settlement transactions with certain creditors of the Company (the "Creditors"), pursuant to which the Company has issued to the Creditors an aggregate of 628,206 Units and 873,000 Shares, each at an issue price of $0.17, in full and final settlement of accrued and outstanding indebtedness in the aggregate amount of approximately $255,205 (the "Debt Settlement"). All securities issued pursuant to the Debt Settlement will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months from the date of issuance.

Multilateral Instrument 61-101

The Company has issued an aggregate of 136,677 Units pursuant to the Private Placement, and 250,000 Shares pursuant to the Debt Settlement, to certain "related parties" of the Company (the "Interested Parties"), in each case constituting, to that extent, a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is exempt from the requirements to obtain a formal valuation and minority shareholder approval in connection with the participation of the Interested Parties in the Private Placement and the Debt Settlement in reliance on sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as neither the fair market value of the Private Placement and the Debt Settlement nor the securities issued in connection therewith, in so far as the Private Placement and the Debt Settlement involves the Interested Parties, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company did not file a material change report more than 21 days before the expected closing of the Private Placement and the Debt Settlement as the details of the Private Placement and the Debt Settlement and the participation therein by the Interested Parties therein were not settled until recently and the Company wishes to close on an expedited basis for sound business reasons.

Stock Option Grant

The Company further announces that it has granted 225,000 stock options, 125,000 of which have been granted to an officer of the Company, pursuant to the Company's long-term incentive plan. Each stock option is exercisable to purchase one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.21 for a period of 5 years, subject to certain vesting provisions.

The foregoing securities being offered have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States, or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons or persons in the United States, absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Prismo Metals Inc.

Prismo (CSE: PRIZ) is mining exploration company focused on two precious metal projects in Mexico (Palos Verdes and Los Pavitos) and a copper project in Arizona (Hot Breccia).

Please follow @PrismoMetals on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube

Prismo Metals Inc.

1100 - 1111 Melville St., Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 3V6

Contact:

Alain Lambert, Chief Executive Officer alambert@cpvcgroup.ca

Steve Robertson, President steve.robertson@prismometals.com

Jason Frame, Manager of Communications jason.frame@prismometals.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things, the intended use of any proceeds raised under the Private Placement.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the inability of the Company to utilize the anticipated proceeds of the Private Placement as anticipated.

In making the forward looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that the Company will use the proceeds of the Private Placement as currently anticipated.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.

SOURCE: Prismo Metals Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Wellfield Technologies Inc. (TSXV: WFLD) (the "Company" or "Wellfield"), a fintech company specializing in innovative solutions leveraging blockchain technology, is pleased to announce the second tranche drawdown of $100,000 (the "Second Tranche") pursuant to the investment agreement dated March 1, 2024 (the "Investment Agreement") with Alumina Partners (Ontario) Ltd., an affiliate of New York-based private equity firm Alumina Partners, LLC. As previously announced on March 12, 2024, the Investment Agreement provides the Company with access to a drawdown equity financing facility of up to $5,000,000 over a 24-month period.

Pursuant to the Second Tranche, the Company issued $100,000 of units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.05625 per Unit, with each Unit consisting of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant") exercisable to acquire one Common Share at a price of $0.09375 per Common Share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance thereof. The closing of the Second Tranche is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"), and the securities issued thereunder will be subject to a four month and one day hold period pursuant to applicable securities laws.

Levy Cohen, CEO of Wellfield, commented, "We are pleased with the ongoing investments by Alumina as well as the higher price per unit and per warrant in this second tranche as compared to the first tranche under our investment agreement."

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended or under any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements

About Wellfield Technologies

Wellfield Technologies, Inc. (TSXV: WFLD) is a leading fintech company specializing in innovative solutions leveraging blockchain technology. Our platform Coinmama (web and Mobile app), provides seamless access to the cryptocurrency market for over 3.5 million registered users across 180 countries. We offer disruptive on-chain and web3 secure and friendly self-custody solutions through Coinmama. Additionally, Wellfield operates Tradewind Markets platform to digitize and trade real-world assets, including our flagship VaultChain Gold and VaultChain Silver products. Expanding our offerings for institutional clients, we present Brane Trust aiming to operate in Alberta Canada's second qualified digital asset custodian.

Join Wellfield's digital community on LinkedIn and Twitter, and for more details, visit wellfield.io.

For further information contact:

Wellfield Technologies Inc.

Levy Cohen, CEO

levyc@wellfield.io

(832) 483-2575

Ryan Graybill, Investor Relations

ryan.graybill@wellfield.io

Cautionary Notice on Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" ("forward-looking information") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding: the launch of the Company's tokenized gold ecosystem; the Company's receipt of required regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSXV which are based on the Company's current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs, which may prove to be incorrect. In disclosing the forward-looking information contained in this press release, the Company has made certain assumptions. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking information will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive and readers are encouraged to review the disclosure documents accessible on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking information or otherwise.

The TSXV has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN

THE UNITED STATES.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213570

SOURCE: Wellfield Technologies Inc.
AANHPI-Led Tech Firm Recognized for Global Trade Expansion

ATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / CirrusLabs, a leading Asian American and Pacific Islander (AANHPI)-owned and led technology firm, was recently awarded the prestigious Export Achievement Certificate from the U.S. Department of Commerce (U.S. Commercial Service) through the Global Diversity Export Initiative.

CirrusLabs, a leading Asian American and Pacific Islander (AANHPI)-owned and led technology firm, was recently awarded the prestigious Export Achievement Certificate from the U.S. Department of Commerce (U.S. Commercial Service).

This award was presented by Arun Venkataraman, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, through the Global Diversity Export Initiative. This national recognition highlights CirrusLabs' outstanding achievements in expanding its innovative technology solutions to global markets.

The Export Achievement Certificate recognizes American companies that have either made their first export sale or expanded their sales into overseas markets with assistance from the U.S. Commercial Service.

CirrusLabs' receipt of this certificate is further attributed to its selection for Trade Winds, the largest U.S. government-led trade mission and business development forum organized by the U.S. Commercial Service to promote trade globally. This underscores CirrusLabs' deep commitment to international trade and its collaboration with the U.S. government to expand its business footprint.

The award was presented at the USPAACC CelebrASIAN conference, where the U.S. Commercial Service sought to highlight successful exporters and connect with the AANHPI business community. CirrusLabs was also named to the USPAACC Fast 100 list for the third time (2020, 2022, and 2024), further demonstrating the company's continued growth and innovation.

CirrusLabs' remarkable success is fueled by its expanding portfolio of innovative services, which includes expertise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, ERP (including ServiceNow, SAP, Oracle Financials Cloud, and Workday), data migration and cloud, SOX compliance and devsecops, procurement and supplier management, call center analytics and migration, ScienceLogic, and Atlassian.

"Receiving the Export Achievement Certificate from the U.S. Department of Commerce is an immense honor," said Naeem Hussain, COO of CirrusLabs. "This recognition, along with our inclusion in the Fast 100 list for the third time, validates our dedication to driving innovation and expanding our reach globally."

CirrusLabs extends its sincere gratitude to the U.S. Department of Commerce (U.S. Commercial Service) and the entire CirrusLabs team for their support and contributions to this remarkable achievement.

About CirrusLabs

CirrusLabs is a leading provider of innovative technology solutions, specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, ERP (including ServiceNow, SAP, Oracle Financials Cloud, and Workday), data migration and cloud, SOX compliance and devsecops, procurement and supplier management, call center analytics and migration, ScienceLogic, and Atlassian.

Contact Information

CirrusLabs Media Relations

info@cirruslabs.io

(877)431-0767

SOURCE: CirrusLabs

View the original press release on newswire.com.
RIGA, Latvia, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- DEAC and Data Logistics Center (DLC) celebrate 25 years of data center and network expertise by merging into a joint brand, Delska. This strategic merger will benefit businesses, offering sophisticated solutions for reliable operations of IT infrastructure and networks across multiple locations.

Both companies have been part of the Baltic Rezo group, owned by Swiss Quaero European Infrastructure Fund II and managed by Quaero Capital since 2020, accelerating development and infrastructure expansion. The legal entities will stay the same.

Andris Gailitis, DEAC and DLC CEO, comments: "We are embarking on an exciting rebranding journey, which involves closer cooperation between companies and an expanded services portfolio to meet IT challenges of our customers from over 40 countries. The heart of the new brand is customers and personal approach to their business. Our strength lies in custom solutions for specific business and industry needs."

Delska's values are openness, flexibility, and reliability. Both companies still emphasize security, quality, and sustainability by using green energy and Neste MY diesel from HVO for backup power generators.

AI boom, increased demand for large-scale data processing, edge and high-power computing have accelerated the construction of data centers. To keep up with the lack of power capacities in major European hubs, a new 10 MW data center in Latvia is under construction. It will be one of the region's most sustainable, with LEED and Tier III certifications, scheduled for launch in 2025. Flexible options of up to 100kW per rack and 1000 racks are available for pre-booking, and the construction project can be adapted by expanding up to 50 MW.

Delska's growth plans include building a new data center in Lithuania, and additional players joining the group soon to build a strong regional data center and network ecosystem. Several owned data centers in Riga and Vilnius and points of presence in Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Stockholm ensure customers' business continuity with disaster recovery solutions.

Delska offers a comprehensive range of IT services - cloud, dedicated servers, security, network solutions, and managed services. "In addition to currently available virtual machine deployment on our self-service platform, built for SMBs, developers, and startups, this year we will implement instant bare metal service to simplify IT people's lives even further," emphasis A. Gailitis.

Learn more: www.delska.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2441990/DEAC_and_DLC.jpg

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/deac--dlc-data-centers-strengthen-position-in-northern-europe-with-new-brand-delska-302176853.html
Santa Cruz Graphite Mine Highlights:

Final payment of land purchase for Phase 1 Plant and Operations.

Approval of the Definitive Mining Licenses For Phases 1, 2 & 3. All mining and environmental licenses/permits are approved and in-hand for the future phased, modular expansion of Santa Cruz graphite production up to 50,000 tonnes/year.

Phase 1 construction is on schedule for substantial completion by the end of June 2024 followed by a 6-week plant commissioning and ramp-up period. Commercial sales are planned to start in September 2024. Name plate production capacity is expected to be reached in Q4 2024.

South Star Battery Metals Corp. ("South Star" or the "Company") (TSXV: STS )(OTCQB: STSBF ) is pleased to announce the final payment of the previously announced ( Aug. 02, 2022 ) land purchase required for construction of the Phase 1 mine and plant facilities. The farm totals approximately 325 hectares and is where all the plant facilities, mine and infrastructure installations are required for the first three years of operations at its Santa Cruz Graphite Project in Bahia, Brazil.

Santa Cruz Graphite Definitive Mining License For Phases 1, 2 and 3 and Mine Construction Update

The definitive mining license for 5 areas totaling 4,431 hectares for South Star's flagship Santa Cruz Graphite Mine ("Santa Cruz") in northeastern Brazil's Bahia state has been approved by the Brazilian Ministry of Mines and Energy ("MME"). These licenses are for life-of-mine and include all the main areas required for Phases 1, 2 and 3 mining operations. Three additional claims are in final evaluation at MME, and the Company expects approval by Q3 2024.

South Star's flagship Santa Cruz Graphite Mine ("Santa Cruz") in northeastern Brazil's Bahia state is scheduled to complete construction of the Phase 1 plant in June of 2024, followed by an estimated six weeks of commissioning and production ramp-up. The current Phase 1 plant can produce approximately 1,000 tonnes per month, once steady-state operations are reached.

Richard Pearce, CEO of South Star, remarked, "The Company now owns the land where our Phase 1 installations and operations are located, and the purchase further strengthens our balance sheet. With the approval of the definitive mining licenses, Phases 2 and 3 of Santa Cruz are now derisked from a permitting and licensing standpoint, and we have a clear path to scaling production as the markets and our clients ask for additional high-quality Brazilian graphite concentrates. Our agreement with Sprott already secures approximately 50% of our Phase 2 CAPEX, and our team is pushing to complete an updated Feasibility Study on Santa Cruz incorporating Phase 3 production. As promised, our team is executing on our strategy to deliver responsible production with phased, modular plants, scalable assets in Tier-1 jurisdictions, and a go-to-market strategy to take advantage of being one of the first movers in the Americas. Santa Cruz is the first new graphite production in the Americas since 1996."

# # #

ABOUT SOUTH STAR BATTERY METALS CORP.

South Star Battery Metals Corp. is a Canadian battery metals project developer focused on the selective acquisition and development of near-term production projects in the Americas. South Star's Santa Cruz Graphite Project, located in Southern Bahia, Brazil is the first of a series of industrial and battery metals projects that will be put into production. Brazil is the second-largest graphite-producing region in the world with more than 80 years of continuous mining. Santa Cruz has at-surface mineralization in friable materials, and successful large-scale pilot-plant testing (> 30t) has been completed. The results of the testing show that approximately 65% of graphite concentrate is +80 mesh with good recoveries and 95%-99% graphitic carbon (Cg). With excellent infrastructure and logistics, South Star is fully funded for Phase 1, and the construction and commissioning are underway. Santa Cruz will be the first new graphite production in the Americas since 1996, with Phase 1 commercial production projected in Q3 2024. Phase 2 production (25,000 tpa) is partially funded and planned for 2026, while Phase 3 (50,000 tpa) is scheduled for 2028.

South Star's second project in the development pipeline is strategically located in Alabama in the center of a developing electric vehicle, aerospace, and defense hub in the southeastern United States. The BamaStar Project includes a historic mine active during the First and Second World Wars. A NI43-101 technical report with the maiden resource estimate has been filed on SEDAR. Trenching, Phase 1 drilling, sampling, analysis, and preliminary metallurgical testing have been completed. The testing indicates a traditional crush/grind/flotation concentration circuit that achieved grades of approximately 94-97% Cg with approximately 86% recoveries. South Star is executing on its plan to create a multi-asset, diversified battery metals company with near-term operations in strategic jurisdictions. South Star trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol STS, and on the OTCQB under the symbol STSBF.

South Star is committed to a corporate culture, project execution plan and safe operations that embrace the highest standards of ESG principles, based on transparency, stakeholder engagement, ongoing education, and stewardship. To learn more, please visit the Company website at http://www.southstarbatterymetals.com .

This news release has been reviewed and approved by Richard Pearce, P.E., a "Qualified Person" under National Instrument 43-101 and President and CEO of South Star Battery Metals Corp.

On behalf of the Board,

MR. RICHARD PEARCE

Chief Executive Officer

For additional information, please contact:

South Star Investor Relations

Email: invest@southstarbatterymetals.com

Phone: +1 (604) 706-0212

Website: www.southstarbatterymetals.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/southstarbm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southstarbatterymetals

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/southstarbatterymetals/

YouTube: South Star Battery Metals - YouTube

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

Neither the 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 press release.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to statements regarding moving Santa Cruz into production and scaling operations as well as advancing the Alabama project; and the Company's plans and expectations.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

SOURCE: South Star Battery Metals Corp.

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Eligible nonprofits may apply for a $25,000 grant now through July 12

CHARLOTTE, NC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / The Duke Energy Foundation is accepting grant applications to award $700,000 in total funding to help North Carolina communities increase their resiliency against major weather events and other natural disasters.

The application process is open now through July 12.

"We're proud to partner with emergency management teams, first responders and nonprofits to strengthen local communities in a way that will reduce the impacts of climate challenges, both present and future," said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy's North Carolina president. "Given North Carolina's impressive growth, achieving this will require collaboration with local organizations undertaking critical resilience preparedness work across the state."

To qualify for grant funding consideration, organizations must meet the criteria outlined here. Nonprofits and governmental agencies must register in the online grant system by June 28 to be eligible to submit their applications by July 12. Applicants may request funds up to $25,000.

Grant applications may include, but are not limited to, projects that focus on:

Heightened collaboration across agencies, sectors and communities in local disaster preparedness and response.



Organized and innovative planning initiatives for local communities to prepare for natural disasters and extreme weather.



Local storm preparedness trainings, materials, kits, and other community engagement and education initiatives.



Emergency communication tools for natural disaster scenarios.



Specialized training for first responders for natural disaster scenarios.



Improved outcomes for low-income and under-resourced communities experiencing natural disasters and extreme weather.



Equipment necessary for severe weather rescues to preserve human life.

This is a long-standing priority of the Foundation, which has awarded nearly $2.4 million to support the state's disaster preparedness since 2019.

"The preparedness grant we received last year from the Duke Energy Foundation has truly benefitted emergency responders throughout our country," said Rodney Cates, Rockingham County Emergency Services Director. "We were able to purchase an advanced identification system to boost accountability during emergent events and drone software that enables us to provide live footage back to the command post to improve situational awareness. The grant also allowed us to upgrade our Emergency Operations Center with new data-connected equipment to enhance overall emergency response capabilities."

"The 2022 Duke Energy Emergency Preparedness Grant has been instrumental in allowing Brunswick County Emergency Management to be better prepared to support countywide damage assessments and search and rescue efforts in isolated and hard to reach areas," said David McIntire, Emergency Management Director. "We were very fortunate to receive this funding and look forward to our continued relationship with Duke Energy."

Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation provides more than $30 million annually in philanthropic support to meet the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers live and work. The Foundation is funded by Duke Energy shareholders.

Duke Energy

Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.4 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 54,800 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.

Duke Energy is executing an ambitious clean energy transition, keeping reliability, affordability and accessibility at the forefront as the company works toward net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including expanded energy storage, renewables, natural gas and nuclear.

More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.

24-Hour: 800.559.3853

View original content here.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Duke Energy on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Duke Energy

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/duke-energy

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Duke Energy

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Fung brings a decade of Executive Chef experience to the rapidly expanding AI Operations provider.

CHICAGO, IL / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / ClearCOGS announced today their addition of Will Fung as its Director of Implementation. The former Jose Andres Group Executive Chef has spent the majority of his career in leadership roles across brands like Jose Andres Group, Matchbox, Ted's Bulletin, and Tiger Fork.

Will Fung

ClearCOGS is a leading player in food-service demand forecasting, leveraging AI and real-time data analysis to provide actionable recommendations that optimize restaurant operations and enhance profitability.

"Now is a key time for technology in the restaurant industry. Accessing detailed insights from data can be the difference between success and closing your doors," Fung said. "What separates ClearCOGS from the crowd, and why I'm so excited to be joining the team, is their constant emphasis on delivering outstanding hospitality to their customers."

"Will Fung brings deep knowledge of restaurant operations to our organization. As ClearCOGS enters into our latest phase of growth, Will's track record of exceptional service will play an important role as we continue defining the field of Predictive Analytics in the restaurant industry," said ClearCOGS CEO Matt Wampler.

About ClearCOGS:

ClearCOGS is a predictive analytics company that provides operational efficiency for modern food-service businesses. We empower restaurant operators with the tools and information they need to make proactive decisions to reduce management stress. We measure our success by the impact our tools have on the bottom line and the clarity in your business operations. For more information, visit clearcogs.com.

Contact Information

Matt Wampler

CEO & Co-Founder

info@clearcogs.com

Kelsey Jobalia

Marketing Manager, ClearCOGS

kelsey@clearcogs.com

SOURCE: ClearCOGS

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CHICAGO, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ring Main Unit Market in terms of revenue was estimated to be worth $2.5 billion in 2024 and is poised to reach $3.4 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2024 to 2029 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets.

The growth of the market can be primarily attributed to the expanding capacity of renewable energy sources and the ongoing efforts to enhance distribution networks, coupled with the modernization initiatives aimed at upgrading existing power infrastructure. As countries worldwide intensify their focus on sustainable energy solutions, there is a notable surge in the installation of renewable energy capacity, such as solar and wind power. This trend necessitates the integration of advanced technologies like ring main units (RMUs) to facilitate the seamless integration of renewable energy into the grid. Furthermore, the increasing complexity of distribution networks and the aging of existing power infrastructure prompt utilities to invest in modernization projects. These initiatives involve the deployment of state-of-the-art equipment like RMUs, which offer enhanced reliability, efficiency, and flexibility in managing electricity distribution.

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Ring Main Unit Market Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2024 $2.5 billion Estimated Value by 2029 $3.4 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% 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 Insulation Type, Installation, Voltage Rating, Structure, Application Geographies Covered Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America Report Highlights Updated financial information / product portfolio of players Key Market Opportunities Growing deployment of smart grids and digitization Key Market Drivers Focus on the strengthening of power distribution infrastructure.

The non-extensible segment, by structure type, is expected to be the most significant ring main unit segment during the forecast period.

The non-extensible segment is projected to emerge as the most significant segment in the Ring Main Unit (RMU) Market during the forecast period due to several factors. Non-extensible RMUs offer fixed configurations that are well-suited for specific applications and environments, providing reliability and stability in power distribution systems. These units are favored for their simplicity and robustness, requiring minimal maintenance and offering long-term operational efficiency. Additionally, non-extensible RMUs are often preferred for critical infrastructure applications where customization and flexibility are less prioritized compared to reliability and durability. As a result, the demand for non-extensible RMUs is expected to remain strong across various industries and utility networks, driving the segment's prominence in the RMU market.

The commercial building segment is anticipated to be the second-largest ring main unit segment, by application, during the forecast period.

The commercial building segment is poised to become the second-largest segment in the Ring Main Unit (RMU) Market by application during the forecast period due to several key factors. Firstly, commercial buildings, including office complexes, shopping malls, hotels, and educational institutions, require reliable and uninterrupted electricity supply to support their operations effectively. RMUs play a crucial role in ensuring the stability and resilience of power distribution within these facilities, especially during peak demand periods. Additionally, as commercial buildings increasingly adopt energy-efficient technologies and integrate renewable energy sources, the need for advanced electrical infrastructure, including RMUs, becomes paramount. RMUs enable efficient management of electricity distribution, optimizing energy usage and reducing operational costs for commercial building owners and operators. Moreover, the growing emphasis on building automation and smart technologies in commercial real estate drives the demand for RMUs with integrated smart grid capabilities, allowing for remote monitoring and control of electrical systems. As urbanization and economic development continue to drive the construction of commercial buildings globally, the demand for RMUs in this segment is expected to witness significant growth, contributing to its prominence in the RMU market landscape.

The air-insulated segment is anticipated to be the fastest-growing ring main unit segment, by insulation type, during the forecast period.

The air-insulated segment is poised to emerge as the fastest-growing segment in the Ring Main Unit (RMU) Market by insulation type, primarily due to several key advantages it offers. Firstly, air-insulated RMUs are renowned for their simplicity and reliability, as they do not rely on specialized insulating gases like SF6, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Additionally, air-insulated RMUs require minimal maintenance compared to gas-insulated counterparts, reducing operational expenses and downtime for utilities. Moreover, the modular design of air-insulated RMUs allows for easy expansion and scalability, making them well-suited for evolving distribution networks and urban environments where space constraints may be a concern. Furthermore, advancements in insulation materials and design technologies have enhanced the performance and reliability of air-insulated RMUs, further driving their adoption. As utilities increasingly prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in their distribution networks, the air-insulated segment is expected to witness accelerated growth, cementing its position as a dominant force in the RMU market.

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Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing segment in the global Ring Main Unit Market, by region, during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is poised to emerge as the fastest-growing segment in the global Ring Main Unit (RMU) Market during the forecast period due to several compelling factors. Firstly, the region is witnessing rapid economic growth and industrialization, leading to a surge in electricity demand across various sectors such as manufacturing, infrastructure development, and commercial establishments. This escalating demand necessitates the expansion and modernization of power distribution networks, wherein RMUs play a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and reliable electricity supply. Moreover, governments in Asia Pacific are increasingly investing in infrastructure development projects, including the enhancement of electrical grids, to support economic growth and meet the needs of growing populations. Additionally, the region's commitment to renewable energy adoption, driven by environmental concerns and energy security, fuels the demand for RMUs for integrating renewable energy sources into the grid. Furthermore, initiatives aimed at rural electrification and improving energy access contribute significantly to the growing deployment of RMUs across diverse geographical and socioeconomic landscapes in the region. The convergence of these factors positions Asia Pacific as a key market for RMUs, with substantial growth opportunities both in terms of market size and expansion rate in the coming years.

ABB Ltd. (Switzerland), Siemens (Germany), Eaton (Ireland), Schneider Electric (France), and LS Electric Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Lucy Electric (UK), CG power & industrial solutions (India), Tiepco (Saudi Arabia), Orecco (China), Entec Electric & Electronics (South Korea) are major competitors in the global Ring Main Unit Market.

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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.

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Antea Group

The energy sector plays a significant role in the global push to reign-in climate change. Currently, energy and heat utilities are the greatest contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. That, however, is changing. In the United States, the world's second-largest producer of GHG emissions, a significant majority of utilities have committed to net-zero goals, a trend visible across both emerging and established economies around the globe.

Emissions inventories are a powerful tool for identifying sources of GHG emissions - a vital step in working toward net-zero goals. Read on to learn how these inventories can help energy sector businesses gain a clearer picture of Scope 3 emissions.

Scope 3 Emissions and the Energy Sector

Unlike direct emissions (Scope 1) or indirect emissions from purchased energy (Scope 2), Scope 3 emissions encompass all other indirect emissions that occur in a company's value chain. These can range from the extraction and production of purchased materials to the emissions associated with disposed products.

Scope 3 in the energy sector

In the energy sector, Scope 3 emissions often constitute the bulk of an energy company's carbon footprint. This is due to the sector's extensive supply chains and the energy-intensive nature of its products' lifecycle, from extraction through to final consumption.

For example, the majority of Scope 3 emissions related to fossil fuel companies come from the extraction, refinement, and transportation of raw materials. For renewable energy firms, the largest source of Scope 3 emissions are in the manufacturing and transportation of materials for technology like solar panels or wind turbines.

Scope 3 challenges and opportunities

The sheer scale of emissions to track, coupled with the complexity of gathering reliable data from multiple sources across the supply chain, can make conducting a Scope 3 inventory daunting. There is also the added difficulty of engaging and incentivizing suppliers and customers to adopt greener practices.

However, the opportunities for improvement and innovation in this area are substantial and can lead to enhanced relationships with stakeholders, improved regulatory compliance, and increased attractiveness to investors looking for sustainable investment opportunities.

For example, some companies are setting targets based on rigorous criteria with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Science-based targets (SBTs) are greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets that are in line with what the latest climate science deems necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. This agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5C.

Setting science-based targets is a strategic move for businesses aiming to future-proof their operations, enhance their reputation, and contribute to global climate action. Specifically setting Scope 3 targets encourages businesses to work closely with their suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders to reduce emissions across the entire value chain.

Regulatory Environment Surrounding Scope 3 Emissions

Regulations governing Scope 3 emissions reporting vary significantly, impacting how companies in the energy sector and beyond must navigate compliance and stakeholder expectations in different markets.

The Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in the European Union extends the reporting requirements for Scope 3 emissions to nearly all large companies and all companies listed on regulated markets (except listed micro-enterprises).

In the United States, while the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had proposed mandatory Scope 3 reporting, this requirement was eventually dropped.

Several markets in the Asia Pacific region have announced new and pending regulations for the reporting of Scope 3 emissions.

The Methodology Behind Scope 3 Emissions Reporting

To effectively calculate and report on Scope 3 emissions, energy companies should follow established methodologies like those outlined in the GHG Protocol's Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard.

This standard provides a step-by-step framework to:

Identify emissions hotspots within your supply chain.

Collect data from suppliers, which often requires robust supplier engagement and data management systems.

Calculate emissions using approved models and conversion factors that translate activity data (like amount of fuel used or distance traveled) into greenhouse gas emissions.

Given the indirect nature of Scope 3 emissions, implementing a systematic approach to data management can help ensure accuracy and completeness of data collected. It's best to use a mix of actual data and estimates where precise data is unavailable and apply conservative assumptions to avoid underreporting. Regularly update and refine data collection methods as more precise information and better technologies become available.

Best Practices for Scope 3 Emissions Inventories

Following these best practices can help energy companies effectively manage measuring and reporting on Scope 3 emissions.

Assess your value chain

Begin with a thorough assessment of your entire value chain to identify where emissions are generated outside of direct operations. This involves mapping out all activities from raw material acquisition through to product end-of-life.

Establish strong data collection processes

Gather accurate and comprehensive emissions data from across the full supply chain. Collaboration with suppliers and partners helps ensure data completeness and reliability.

Implement regular monitoring and reporting

Establish mechanisms to track the effectiveness of emissions reduction strategies. Transparency in reporting contributes to building trust with stakeholders and helps track progress against set goals.

While an initial Scope 3 inventory is a substantial undertaking, there are resources available to help ease the load. Learn how Antea Group's team of sustainability experts can help you navigate the GHG inventory process.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Antea Group on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Antea Group

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/antea-group

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Antea Group

View the original press release on accesswire.com
LONDON, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The third edition of the International Greenwich Olympiad (IGO 2024) concluded on 15 June 2024, marking a triumphant celebration of student innovation and global collaboration. Organised and sponsored by North London Grammar School, the event brought together 449 students, 134 schools, 48 countries, showcasing 310 groundbreaking projects across 12 categories, including Environmental Science, Engineering, Computer Science and Art.

The event kicked off with a spectacular Opening Ceremony on 10 June at the historic Oxford Town Hall. This iconic Victorian Gothic building provided a fitting backdrop as students, dressed in traditional costumes, proudly presented their national flags. Distinguished guests such as Mrs Moira Darlington, Deputy Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Cllr Mike Rowley, Lord Mayor of Oxford, and Anne Watson, Professor of Oxford University, graced the ceremony with their presence. The Advisory Board Chair Dr John Grainger and board member Garry A. Bolles shared their warm wishes via prerecorded video messages.

On 11 June, the competition moved to Queen Mary University of London for the Exhibition and Judging Day. The Octagon hall provided an ideal backdrop for showcasing the innovative projects. Students eagerly set up and presented their projects to a panel of over 50 judges, comprising industry professionals and academics, who were impressed by the calibre of entries. We were honoured by the presence of Councillor Moin Quadri, The Worshipful Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, who attended and offered valuable insights and encouragement to the participants.

Throughout the 8-day event, students engaged in various activities designed to foster cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Highlights included a Cultural Night, BBQ Day, and memorable excursions to some of London's and Oxford's most iconic landmarks. In London, participants explored the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Madame Tussauds, and more. In Oxford, they enjoyed a river cruise and visited the historic Christ Church.

The excitement peaked at the grand Award Ceremony, where winners were awarded with gold, silver, and bronze medals as well as certificates. Distinguished guests, including Cllr Salim Chowdhury, Mayor of Harrow, Dr Grace Boakye Dankwa and Naa Dedei Teeth, the representatives from the Ghana High Commission UK, presented the awards. All participating students received a certificate of participation, and supervisors were acknowledged with plaques and exclusive IGO2024 gift packs.

Driven by these inspiring quotes and building on the resounding success of IGO2024, plans are already underway for an even more spectacular event next summer. The International Greenwich Olympiad will continue to serve as a platform for young innovators to showcase their talents, fostering a spirit of collaboration and inspiring excellence in innovation.

For further information, please contact:

North London Grammar School

Email:info@northlondongrammarschool.com

Phone: +44 20 1234 5678

Website: www.northlondongrammarschool.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igolondon.co.uk

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igo_london/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kmt61t29tTg&ab_channel=InternationalGreenwichOlympiad

Photos from events: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1d6GsCjuIoJmH3oMuMHjCMFv8QLSoD8Hd?usp=sharing

Eva Wilson, eva.wilson@northlondongrammar.com , +44 7340 560448

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Leer Inc., a leading brand in temperature-controlled storage solutions, proudly announces the release of its latest product line: Refrigerated Reach-In Storage Solutions. Engineered for diverse commercial applications, these units are perfect for restaurants, convenience stores, and more, offering superior reliability and flexibility for both Indoor and Outdoor cold storage needs.

NEW LISBON, WI / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Leer Inc., a leading brand in temperature-controlled storage solutions, proudly announces the release of its latest product line: Refrigerated Reach-In Storage Solutions. Engineered for diverse commercial applications, these units are perfect for restaurants, convenience stores, and more, offering superior reliability and flexibility for both Indoor and Outdoor cold storage needs.

S85 Reach-In Storage

Indoor & Outdoor Refrigerated Reach-In Storage Coolers & Freezers

Introducing the new line of Refrigerated Reach-In Storage units, available in both indoor and outdoor models, including the S40 Cooler, S40 Freezer, S85 Cooler, and the S85 Freezer.

"We understand the challenges businesses face in maximizing their cold storage capacities with reliable and efficient solutions. Our new, fully-weatherproof, Outdoor Refrigerated Reach-In Storage units address these needs by allowing businesses to leverage their unused outdoor real estate."

- Ben Albregts, President of Leer, Inc.

Weatherproof Construction: Create extra cold storage away from your paying customers. The patented offset seams are precision machine formed, resulting in water-tight lock-form seams. This creates a robust weatherproof product that you can place outside for years to come.

Precise Temperature Control: Be confident your product will remain in optimal condition. Eco-friendly R290 refrigerant, electronic controls, and an automatic defrost system deliver precise temperature control (34 to 46F for Coolers; -4F to 0F for Freezers).

User Convenience: Adjustable heavy-duty shelving each capable of 100lbs, large door openings, and LED lighting provide easy access and superior organization.

Leer's Refrigerated Reach-In Storage offers a reliable and efficient solution for extra cold storage needs. To learn more, visit: https://leerinc.com/products/refrigerated-reach-in-storage/

About Leer Inc.

Through decades of commitment to product development, customer service and a relentless focus on American-made manufacturing excellence, Leer has continued to shape and drive innovation in the temperature-controlled storage industry. We're dedicated to the success of all our customers - be that customers of our iconic white Ice Merchandisers, Refrigerated-In Storage Units, Multi-Temp Refrigerated Trailers, or our custom-built Walk-In Coolers & Freezers.

Phone: 800-766-5337

Email: Sales@leerinc.com

Contact Information

Geoffrey Gould

Director of Brand Strategy

ggould@leerinc.com

608-573-3850

Related Files

Reach_In_Storage_Freezer_S85_Cutsheet_0424

Reach_In_Storage_Cooler_S40_Cutsheet_0424

SOURCE: Leer Inc.

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Regulatory News:

Vivendi (Paris:VIV) today announced that it has taken several initiatives to protect and promote the creations of its various businesses. The objective is to ensure greater transparency and authenticity of the content produced in the digital ecosystem and to certify that it has been produced in whole or in part by a human being or by artificial intelligence.

This approach comes at a time when Web 3.0, this new generation of a decentralized, more independent Internet, based in particular on blockchain technology, is enjoying renewed interest. The challenge for Vivendi is to use the ongoing developments of Web 3.0 to defend the legitimate interests of all its rights holders in matters of intellectual property.

Fabien Aufrechter, Vice President Web 3.0, said: "Generative artificial intelligence is a driver of transformation and acceleration for the creative industries. But without a tool for authenticating digital content, the risks generated by this technology cannot be overlooked. This is why we are committed to a project to protect all the content we produce, with the aim of encouraging all digital content creators to follow us."

Vivendi has joined the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) and Havas has become a member of the Content Authenticity Initiative. These two international groups count among their founding members Adobe, Google, Intel, Microsoft, OpenAI and the BBC. Their objective is to propose open-source technical solutions to combat disinformation, online fraud and content piracy by certifying, in a non-falsifiable way, via the blockchain, the origin and the path of digital content.

Vivendi has also become a member of the League for the Security of Web 3.0 and will chair its commission on the protection of intellectual property. This association is a network of around one hundred European private and public players concerned about the security issues related to blockchain technologies.

This press release has been authenticated as coming from Vivendi using the C2PA standard on the Ethereum public blockchain thanks to the Click solution developed by the startup Nodle. This ensures a simple user experience for both journalists and the company distributing a press release or any other document.

Several other initiatives are being taken in parallel by Vivendi's various businesses to deploy the potential of blockchain technologies. Prisma Media's Capital magazine has become the first global media outlet to deploy a solution for accessing some of its content in token-gated mode, a new form of monetization via cryptographic tokens that promotes ethical CRM by being more transparent and secure. For its 75th anniversary, the magazine Paris Match presented a collection of 75 NFTs (non-fungible tokens) of iconic photos from its archives on the online art gallery superrare.com.

About Vivendi

Since 2014, Vivendi has been building a world-class content, media and communications group. Canal+ Group is a major player in the creation and distribution of cinema and audiovisual content on all continents. With Lagardere, Vivendi is the world's third-largest book publisher for the general public and educational markets, and a leading global player in travel retail. Havas is one of the largest global communications groups with a presence in more than 100 countries. Vivendi is also active in the magazine business (Prisma Media), and in video games (Gameloft). It also owns a global digital content distribution platform (Dailymotion) and a subsidiary dedicated to providing very high-speed Internet access in Africa (GVA). Vivendi's various activities work closely together as an integrated group committed to transforming its businesses to meet the expectations of the public and anticipate constant changes. As a committed group, Vivendi contributes to building more open, inclusive, and responsible societies by supporting diverse and inventive creative works, promoting broader access to culture, education, and its industries, and increasing awareness of 21st century challenges and opportunities. www.vivendi.com

This document has been certified by Vivendi SE using the blockchain and Nodle Connecting SDK's Click solution to ensure its authenticity. View this certificate of authenticity by logging in to https://www.certification.vivendi.com or using a blockchain explorer such as https://etherscan.io or https://www.blockchain.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240619504435/en/

Contacts:

Vivendi
Evexta Bio SA, a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing first-in-class therapies in oncology, announces the appointment of Shawn M. Leland, PharmD, RPh as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Shawn is an accomplished pharmaceutical and biotechnology professional with more than 15 years of experience in the industry. Throughout his career, Shawn has successfully advanced novel oncology assets and programs, raised substantial capital for various ventures, negotiated major global licensing agreements, and established strategic partnerships. His extensive experience in leading biotech startups, raising capital and executing strategic collaborations will be a major benefit to Evexta Bio in its growth and corporate development strategy.

Most recently, Shawn was the Interim CEO and Board Director of ForeBio, where he led the company through a phase 2 study with registrational intent and closed a $75M Series D financing.

In July 2019, Shawn founded Elevation Oncology, where he served as Chief Business Officer and Board Director, and later as CEO until January 2023. During his mandate, the company advanced multiple novel targeted oncology assets. Shawn raised over $200M in capital, which included a $100M IPO. Shawn grew Elevation Oncology from zero to more than 50 employees.

Shawn was Head of Business Development at Verastem Oncology from 2017 2019 and Argos Therapeutics from 2013 2017 where he played a pivotal role in each company's corporate development strategy leading multiple partnerships and licensing transactions. Shawn started his career with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, ARIAD Pharmaceuticals and Eli Lilly. Shawn holds a PharmD from Albany College of Pharmacy.

Alain Chevallier, former Chairman of the board of Directors of Evexta Bio, said: "I'm pleased to be handing over the chairmanship to a great professional of the oncology and biotech field as Shawn, who brings new valuable perspectives to Evexta Bio, and I will continue, as Vice-Chairman, to be fully committed to the success of the Company."

Scott Filosi, CEO of Evexta Bio added: "I am delighted to welcome Shawn as Chairman of the Board of Directors. His experience and expertise in oncology and strategic development of biotechnology companies are real assets for Evexta Bio. I'm looking forward to working with him to accelerate the mission of Evexta Bio.

Shawn M. Leland, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Evexta Bio, said: "I'm looking forward to joining the team of Evexta Bio in such a pivotal moment of its development. Evexta Bio has tremendous potential and I thank the members of the Board of Directors for their trust."

About Evexta Bio (https://www.evextabio.com

Evexta Bio is a biopharmaceutical company exploring the new frontiers of oncology in search of daring novel therapeutic approaches with the potential to save lives. Now, in the clinic, the company is currently developing two proprietary therapeutic assets with novel mechanisms of action across several indications:

Rupitasertib, an optimized S6K inhibitor with efficient AKT1/AKT3 control of compensatory AKT feed-back loop. The oral anti-tumor agent is expected to enter phase 2 clinical trial in ESR1 mt ER+ HER2- advanced breast cancer.

mt ER+ HER2- advanced breast cancer. EVX020, a sole-in-class KIF20A kinesin inhibitor having shown potent nonclinical efficacy in hematological and solid tumor models. Two strategies are under assessment, development of EVX020 as a prodrug and as a payload for antibody-drug conjugate (ADC).

Founded by Truffle Capital, supported by Merck KGaA (Darmstadt, Germany) as shareholder, Evexta Bio has forged alliances with leaders in academia and industry, including CNRS, Paoli-Calmettes Institute (Marseille, France) and Merck KGaA. The company is supported by seasoned management team, board of directors and medical advisory board.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240619024966/en/

Contacts:

Primatice Conseil

Armand Rigaudy

+33 (0)6 31 52 24 83

armandrigaudy@primatice.com
SHANGHAI, China, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- With 325,000 square meters of exhibition area for the seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) having already been booked by more than 1,000 companies around the globe, the 2024 edition of the world's first national-level import-themed expo is expected to make an even bigger splash this November.

Global brands further expand business in China via the CIIE

As a frequenter of the CIIE, Ireland has over the past six editions of the event brought a range of high-quality food products, including milk powder from grass-fed cows, organic chocolate, whisky and gin, with many of them making their global debut at the annual trade fair.

Over the years, companies from 173 countries and regions have made appearances at the CIIE and carried out tentative transactions worth over $420 billion. Nearly 2,500 new products, technologies and services have debuted at the event.

Greece's Piraeus Port, the chief seaport of Athens and a key project in China-Greece cooperation, has participated in the expo every year since 2018.

"Six-time participant Piraeus Port has further boosted its interaction with global maritime stakeholders and enhanced the creation of business opportunities," Greek Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Staikouras noted, hailing the fair as "significant and well-recognized globally".

In addition to the Business Exhibition, the Country Exhibition proffers a platform where countries can improve their global image and increase their international presence.

As a major participant, the UK has showcased its world-leading technologies and services in areas like healthcare, finance, education food and agricultural products at the event.

According to the UK government website, the expo offers a unique platform for UK businesses to display some of the country's most innovative technologies and connect with Chinese businesses, investors, and consumers.

Hongqiao Forum spotlights global issues

As a crucial part of the annual CIIE, the Hongqiao Forum invites worldwide high-profile government officials, Nobel Prize laureates and senior executives of industrial pacesetters to discuss global issues.

The sixth Hongqiao Forum in 2023 saw a record attendance of more than 8,000 people and featured 22 subforums on a range of subjects such as financial reform and innovation, digital governance and green investment.

Organizers of the forum have held a series of symposiums and salons over the past few months and invited important figures, including UN representatives, government officials, scholars, and member companies to contribute to this year's themes and topics.

CIIE 2024 expects more participants

The seventh CIIE will launch another series of global roadshows in the UK, Ireland and Greece from June 19 to 28 to attract more companies with an interest in exporting to China and highlight the CIIE's supporting policies.

In addition, registration for professional visitors, including buyers, for this year's expo is now in full swing. A number of roadshows aimed at inviting buyers are now underway, motivating the trade missions to leverage the expo's prospects and expand their trade partnerships with companies around the world.

With so many showing interest in the trade fair, be sure to secure your spot at CIIE 2024:

Sign up as an exhibitor: https://www.ciie.org/exhibition/f/book/register?locale=en&from=press

Sign up as a professional visitor:

https://www.ciie.org/ciie/f/visitor/pre-book?locale=en&from=press

Contact:Ms. Cui Yan

Tel.:0086-21-968888

Email: exhibition@ciie.org

Website: http://www.ciie.org/zbh/en/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ciieonline

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ciieonline

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Alstom signs 323 million contract with the Polo Logistica FS to supply 70 Traxx Universal locomotives with maintenance services

Contract includes 12 years of full maintenance and option for up to 30 additional locomotives, with first deliveries set to begin in 2025

Locomotives to be manufactured in Italy at Alstom's Vado Ligure site, with maintenance services provided across the country

19 June 2024 - Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has signed a contract with Mercitalia Rail, a company of the Polo Logistica FS1 for the supply of 70 Traxx Universal locomotives for Italy, along with 12 years of full maintenance services. Some of the locomotives will be equipped with last mile technology. The contract is valued at over 323 million and includes the option to supply an additional 30 locomotives and an extension of the maintenance services.

Traxx Universal is the most advanced four-axle locomotive platform offering high energy efficiency and traction capacity. The functional design, coupled with an extended maintenance plan featuring reduced intervention frequencies, guarantees elevated levels of reliability and availability. The last mile system enables such as seamless transition from line haul traction into non-electrified lines, such as those found in ports, industrial areas, or terminals.

"We are delighted to announce this significant new contract with Polo Logistica, a longstanding customer and one of Italy's pioneers in investing in high-power electric locomotives. Over the years, we have already supplied Polo Logistica with more than 50 such locomotives, all of which are in operation," said Michele Viale, Managing Director of Alstom in Italy.

He added: "This new agreement reinforces the operations at the Vado Ligure site and reaffirms our expertise in cutting-edge railway technologies. Our commitment to excellence and innovation allows us to provide tailored solutions to meet the needs of our customers. Indeed, the supply contract includes some last mile locomotives capable of directly connecting the railway network with terminals and ports, enhancing worldwide cargo handling efficiency, speed, and security."

All Traxx Universal locomotives intended for the Italian market are manufactured at Alstom's site in Vado Ligure. This facility, with over a century of vehicle production experience, benefits from the expertise of more than 300 people. The site has been integral to various stages of production, including electrical and pneumatic sub-assembly, bogie assembly, vehicle painting, final assembly, testing, rain tests, vehicle weighing, and repair of power and control electronics.

A team of experienced technicians, situated in five maintenance depots across Italy, currently oversees the maintenance of more than 200 Traxx Universal locomotives. With this contract, the number of locomotives under maintenance will exceed 300 and the team will be further bolstered A local hub, specialised in digital maintenance, captures data from the locomotives and their condition is monitored in real time. This facilitates the provision of maintenance to be carried out in depots, and minor interventions at over 10 sites nationwide, ensuring maximum fleet performance and availability.

Over the last 20 years, more than 2,700 Traxx locomotives have been sold across Europe, with over 325 locomotives in Italy alone.

Alstom is the market leader in rail services, supporting customers over the entire asset lifecycle with the broadest portfolio of services solutions. Alstom's FlexCare Perform maintenance services are tailored to customer needs and operational requirements, from technical support with spares to fully outsourced maintenance solutions. Alstom maintains over 2,450 locomotives around the world and is entity in charge of maintenance for over 170 locomotives in Italy.

Alstom, Traxx Universal and FlexCare Perform are registered trademarks of the Alstom Group.

1 Grouping of the Gruppo FS Italiane companies involved in freight transport and logistics
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust PLC - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, June 19

For immediate release

19 June 2024

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announce that it has today purchased 211,7753 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 845.79 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 45,663,255; 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 179,328,048.

The figure of 179,328,048 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
Green Bridge Metals Corporation (CNSX:GRBM)(OTCQB:GBMCF)(FWB:J48, WKN:A3EW4S) ("Green Bridge" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the closing of its non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") through the issuance of 28,583,073 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.13 per Unit for gross proceeds of $3,715,799.55. Each Unit consists of one (1) share (each, a "Share") and one-half-of-one (1/2) transferable Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one (1) additional Share of the Company for a period of five (5) years from issuance, at a price of $0.25 per Warrant Share.

The net proceeds from the Private Placement will be used to support its existing operations and for general working capital purposes.

In connection with closing, arms-length finders acting in connection with the Private Placement received fees in the aggregate amount of $194,060.01 cash and 1,492,769 share purchase warrants (each, a "Broker Warrant"). In addition, the Company issued 571,661 Shares (the "Administrative Shares") of the Company to Amalfi Corporate Services Ltd. ("Amalfi"), in consideration for administrative services rendered in connection with the Private Placement. Amalfi is a private company controlled by Geoff Balderson. Mr. Balderson serves as CFO of the Company.

MI 61-101 Disclosure

Amalfi, a private company controlled by Geoff Balderson, CFO of the Company, will receive an aggregate total of 571,661 Administrative Shares in consideration for administrative services rendered in connection with the Private Placement. The issuance of the Administrative Shares to Amalfi is considered to be a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the issuance of the Administrative Shares issued to Amalfi do not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the market capitalization of the Company, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101.

Pursuant to applicable securities laws, all securities issued under the Private Placement are subject to a statutory hold period until October 20, 2024.

Furthermore, the Company announces it has engaged the services of DS Market Solutions Inc. ("DS Market") to provide equity trading advisory and liquidity provider services in accordance with the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE"). DS Market will trade common shares of the Company on the CSE and all other trading venues with the objective of maintaining a reasonable market and improving the liquidity of the Company's common shares.

Under the terms of the engagement, DS Market will receive compensation of CAD$5,000 per month, payable monthly in advance. The engagement effective from July 2, 2024, on a month-to-month term and may be terminated by either party with thirty (30) days' notice. There are no performance factors contained in the engagement and DS Market will not receive shares or options as compensation. DS Market and the Company are unrelated and unaffiliated entities and at the time of the engagement, neither DS Market nor its principals have an interest, directly or indirectly, in any securities of the Company.

ABOUT DS Market Solutions

DS Market Solutions is an equity trading advisor to issuers looking to enhance liquidity in their publicly traded securities. DS Market Solution's contact is davidsears@dsmarketsolutions.com and website is https://dsmarketingsolution.com/ .

Additionally, the Company announces that it previously entered into an agreement with MIC Market Information & Content Publishing ("MIC"), an independent third-party, for a range of online marketing services encompassing campaign creation, production of marketing materials, as well as research and analytics (the "Services"). As part of the ongoing engagement, the Company has agreed to compensate MIC with a new budget totaling EUR$250,000 (the "New Budget"). The New Budget is intended to support the ongoing online marketing campaign initiatives with the Company.

The compensation provided to MIC does not involve any securities of the company. Besides this specific arrangement, there are no other affiliations between the Company and MIC, including with Ms. Christina Hammer, the CEO of MIC. MIC's business address is located at Gerhart-Hauptmann-Str. 49B, 51379 Leverkusen, Germany, email at contact@micpublishing.de, telephone number at +49 2171-7766628, and website is www.micpublishing.de.

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.

About Green Bridge Metals

Green Bridge Metals Corporation (formerly Mich Resources Ltd.) is a Canadian based exploration company focused on acquiring 'battery metal' rich mineral assets and the development of the South Contact Zone (the "Property") along the basal contact of the Duluth Intrusion, north of Duluth, Minnesota. The South Contact Zone contains bulk-tonnage copper-nickel and titanium-vanadium in ilmenite hosted in ultramafic to oxide ultramafic intrusions. The Property has exploration targets for bulk-tonnage Ni mineralization, high grade Ni-Cu-PGE magmatic sulfide mineralization and titanium.

ON BEHALF OF GREEN BRIDGE METALS,

"David Suda"

President and Chief Executive Officer

For more information, please contact:

David Suda

President and Chief Executive Officer

Tel: 604.928-3101

investors@greenbridgemetals.com

SOURCE: Green Bridge Metals Corporation

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Der Goldpreis haussiert und schwingt sich von Hoch zu Hoch. Getrieben von geopolitischen Unsicherheiten sowie der Aussicht auf eine lockere Geldpolitik der FED gehen Experten aktuell von weiter steigenden Notierungen bis sogar in den Bereich von 3.000 US-Dollar je Unze Gold aus.



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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - KO Gold Inc. (CSE: KOG) ("KO Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement of up to 8,333,334 units ("Units") to be issued at a price of $0.60 per Unit for gross proceeds up to $5,000,000 (the "Private Placement"). Each Unit will be comprised of one common share (each a "Share") and one transferable common share purchase warrant (each a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one additional Share at a price of $0.80 for a period of thee (3) years from issuance.

Proceeds received from the Private Placement will be used to for general working capital purposes and to fund the Company's ongoing exploration and drilling programs in Otago Gold District in New Zealand.

Finder's fees of cash and warrants issued on the same terms as above may be paid to qualified parties. All securities will be will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from issuance.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell 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.

Business Development and Marketing Agreement

The Company also announces that it has entered into a business development and marketing agreement dated May 24, 2024 (the "Agreement") with Karlsson Group Limited dba Scandinavian Alliance ("Scandinavian Alliance") to provide social media and content creation, brand awareness services and consultation, and provide advice to the Company in an effort to increase public awareness of KO Gold and broaden its reach within the European market.

The Agreement is for an initial 6-month term with the services performed by Scandinavian Alliance to start immediately. The Company has agreed to pay Scandinavian Alliance a cash fee of CAD $115,000 for their services. KO Gold and Scandinavian Alliance are not related parties and operate at arm's length. Neither Scandinavian Alliance nor its principals have any interest in the Company's securities, directly or indirectly, or any right or intent to acquire such an interest. No stock options are being granted to Scandinavian Alliance under the terms of the Agreement.

The contact information for Karlsson Group Limited dba Scandinavian Alliance is 1203 12/F, Tower 3, China, Hong Kong City, 33 Canton Road, Tsimshatsui, Hong Kong. Attention: Henrik Nilsson - Managing Partner; Phone: +46 8 559 26 709; Email: henrik@scandinavianalliance.com.

About KO Gold Inc.

KO Gold is a Canadian junior exploration company listed on the CSE under the ticker symbol "KOG". The Company's strategy is to acquire and explore highly prospective gold properties within the Otago Gold District in New Zealand. KO Gold has nine 100%-owned prospecting and exploration permits within the Otago Gold District for a combined land package of 833 km2. The Company's Smylers Gold and Glenpark EPs are located adjacent to OceanaGold's Macraes Gold Mine and the Carrick EP hosts the historic Carrick Goldfield which holds promise as a significant gold deposit near Santana Minerals' Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project. KO Gold has spent over C$1.5M in exploration and drilling on its permits in the Otago Gold District over the past four years including reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling on its Smylers Gold EP.

For further information, please contact:

Greg Isenor, President and CEO, Director

Tel: (902) 832-5555

Email: info@kogoldnz.com

Website: www.kogoldnz.com

KO Gold Inc.

Suite 802 - Sun Tower, 1550 Bedford Highway

Bedford, Nova Scotia

B4A 1E6 Canada

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213582

SOURCE: KO Gold Inc.
DUBAI, UAE, June 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Bybit , one of the world's top three crypto exchanges by volume, is thrilled to reveal its upcoming restock of the Bitcoin (BTC) Wealth Management Fund Pool , following the immense popularity and success of the initial rounds.

Sold Out in Record Time

During the soft launch on June 3, Bybit allocated a total of 100 BTC to the Wealth Management Fund Pool, which astonishingly sold out within a mere 7 hours.

Catering to High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs), VIP customers, and asset managers, the first restock of 50 BTC went live on June 5, quickly oversubscribed within a remarkable 5 hours, highlighting the continued demand and enthusiasm from our valued users.

Restock for VIPs and Regular Users

The second round of restock will be available to both VIP customers and regular users, offering the most compelling rates in the industry.

It is scheduled to take place on June 21, 10 AM UTC. Bybit is excited to offer users another opportunity to participate in this investment opportunity, and understands the importance of catering to a diverse range of investors and are committed to providing equal opportunities for all.

Bybit's Wealth Management service empowers users to efficiently manage, plan, and invest their digital assets. It offers a range of professional investment strategies and diverse portfolios to help users achieve their investment goals effectively and confidently.

For more information about Bybit Wealth Management, visit this page .

Bybit / TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is one of the world's top three cryptocurrency exchanges by volume with 30 million users. Established in 2018. It offers a professional platform where crypto investors and traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, 24/7 customer service, and multilingual community support. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One's reigning Constructors' and Drivers' champions: the Oracle Red Bull Racing team.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press .

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com

For more information, please visit: https://www.bybit.com

For updates, please follow: Bybit's Communities and Social Media

Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

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REGINA, SK / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / ROK Resources Inc. ("ROK" or the "Company") (TSXV:ROK)(OTCQB:ROKRF) is pleased to outline its strategic direction for the second half of 2024, aimed at enhancing shareholder value through the development of conventional light oil prospects in core operating areas of Southeast Saskatchewan.

1H 2024 1 2H 2024 2024 Year Capital Expenditures (MM) $9.5 $14.5 $24.0 Daily Average Production (boepd) 2 4,000 4,300 4,150 Exit Production (boepd) 2,3 4,000 4,600 4,600 Funds from Operations (MM) $15.0 $16.0 $31.0 Adjusted Net Debt (MM) $16.5 $20.0 $20.0 Average WTI (US$) $78/bbl $75/bbl $76.50/bbl

2024 Guidance Summary

Notes:

Estimated prior to finalizing interim condensed financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2024 64% liquids 1H 2024 exit production reduced by 280 boepd (80% natural gas) due to Kaybob, Alberta production shut-ins

2024 Guidance Highlights

Production Growth : Estimated 2024 average daily production rate of 4,100 boepd to 4,200 boepd (64% liquids) which exceeds 2023 daily average production rate of 3,876 boepd (62% liquids).

: Estimated 2024 average daily production rate of 4,100 boepd to 4,200 boepd (64% liquids) which exceeds 2023 daily average production rate of 3,876 boepd (62% liquids). Reduction in Capital Expenditures : Total annual capital expenditures of $24 million to $25 million in 2024, a 25% decrease in annual capital expenditures when compared to 2023.

: Total annual capital expenditures of $24 million to $25 million in 2024, a 25% decrease in annual capital expenditures when compared to 2023. Stable Balance Sheet : 2024 exit Adjusted Net Debt of $19 million to $20 million, implying a debt to cash flow from operations ratio of 0.6x.

: 2024 exit Adjusted Net Debt of $19 million to $20 million, implying a debt to cash flow from operations ratio of 0.6x. Core Area Drill Program : An estimated 13 gross (11.95 net) wells in Southeast Saskatchewan (75% - 85% Frobisher weighted assets), aimed at growing base reserves and future drilling inventory.

: An estimated 13 gross (11.95 net) wells in Southeast Saskatchewan (75% - 85% Frobisher weighted assets), aimed at growing base reserves and future drilling inventory. Midale Multi-Lateral Drilling: Drilling of 2 to 3 multi-lateral Midale wells to capitalize on Saskatchewan multi-lateral royalty incentive.

Drilling of 2 to 3 multi-lateral Midale wells to capitalize on Saskatchewan multi-lateral royalty incentive. Strong Natural Gas Hedge Program: Total natural gas hedges of 1,094,563 MMBtu in 2H 2024 at an average price of $2.09/MMBtu, equating to an estimated hedge gain of $1.0 million to $1.5 million CAD at current strip pricing over this period.

Outlook

The Company is focused on using its current balance sheet to target strategic growth opportunities in core areas, while improving operational efficiencies through continued cost reduction measures. The drill program aims to add Frobisher drilling inventory in both new and existing areas, in addition to proving up Midale prospects with multi-lateral drilling.

Kaybob, Alberta Update

With the current softening of the North American natural gas markets, the Company has shut-in 280 boepd (80% natural gas) in its Kaybob, Alberta area. The strategic shut-ins are expected for the balance of Q3 2024 with reactivation expected in Q4 2024.

About ROK

ROK is primarily engaged in exploring for petroleum and natural gas development activities in Alberta and Saskatchewan. It has offices located in both Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada and Calgary, Alberta, Canada. ROK's common shares are traded on the TSX Venture Exchange under the trading symbol "ROK".

For further information, please contact:

Cameron Taylor, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Bryden Wright, President and Chief Operating Officer

Jared Lukomski, Senior Vice President, Land & Business Development

Lynn Chapman, Chief Financial Officer

Phone: (306) 522-0011

Email: investor@rokresources.ca

Website: www.rokresources.ca

Non-IFRS Measures

The non-IFRS measures referred to above do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS Accounting Standards ("IFRS") and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Management uses this non-IFRS measurement to provide its shareholders and investors with a measurement of the Company's financial performance and are not intended to represent operating profits nor should they be viewed as an alternative to cash provided by operating activities, net income or other measures of financial performance calculated in accordance with IFRS. The reader is cautioned that these amounts may not be directly comparable to measures for other companies where similar terminology is used.

"Operating Income" is calculated by deducting royalties and operating expense from total sales revenue. Total sales revenue is comprised of oil and gas sales. The Company refers to Operating Income expressed per unit of production as an "Operating Netback". "Operating Income Profit Margin" is calculated by the Company as Operating Income as a percentage of oil and natural gas sales. "Funds from Operations" is calculated by adding other income and realized gains/losses on commodity contracts ("hedging") to Operating Income.

"Net Debt" includes all indebtedness of the Company, such as the Credit Facility and Lease Obligations (each as defined within the Company's interim condensed financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024), net of Adjusted Working Capital. "Adjusted Working Capital" is calculated as current assets less current liabilities, excluding current portion of debt and lease liability as defined on the Company's statement of financial position within the Company's interim condensed financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024. "Adjusted Net Debt" is calculated by removing the "mark-to-market fair value of the current portion of risk management contracts" and "lease obligations" (each as defined within the Company's interim condensed financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024) from Net Debt.

Conversion Measures

Production volumes and reserves are commonly expressed on a barrel of oil equivalent ("boe") basis whereby natural gas volumes are converted at the ratio of 6 thousand cubic feet ("Mcf") to 1 barrel of oil ("bbl"). Although the intention is to sum oil and natural gas measurement units into one basis for improved analysis of results and comparisons with other industry participants, boe's may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf to 1 bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. In recent years, the value ratio based on the price of crude oil as compared to natural gas has been significantly higher than the energy equivalency of 6:1 and utilizing a conversion of natural gas volumes on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

Abbreviations

bbls/d barrels per day bopd barrels per day boepd barrels oil equivalent per day IP Initial Production NGLs Natural Gas Liquids Mboe Thousands of barrels of oil equivalent Mg/l Milligrams per Litre MMboe Millions of barrels of oil equivalent PDP Proved Developed Producing TP Total Proved Reserves TPP Total Proved and Probable Reserves WTI West Texas Intermediate, the reference price paid in U.S. dollars at Cushing, Oklahoma for the crude oil standard grade CA$ Canadian dollars US$ U.S. dollars

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Company's objectives, goals, or future plans and the expected results thereof. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on several estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include but are not limited to general business, economic and social uncertainties; litigation, legislative, environmental, and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; those additional risks set out in ROK's public documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca; and other matters discussed in this news release. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether because of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility of the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: ROK Resources Inc.

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Sydney, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2024) - Established gold producer Austral Gold Limited (ASX: AGD) (TSXV: AGLD) (OTCQB: AGLDF) ("Austral" or the "Company") advises that its subsidiary Austral Gold Canada Limited ("AGCL") and two of the Company's directors, Eduardo Elsztain and Saul Zang, have entered into a share purchase agreement dated June 18, 2024 (the "Agreement").

AGCL currently owns a total of 34,751,970 common shares ("Unico Shares") in the capital of Unico Silver Limited ("Unico"). Unico is a publicly traded Australian company and the Unico Shares are listed on the ASX. Under the agreement, AGCL has agreed to sell 5,458,833 of its Unico Silver Limited Shares ("Unico Shares") to Mr. Eduardo Elsztain and 135,829 of its Unico Shares to Mr. Saul Zang. The price for these Unico Shares is to be the greater of (a) A$0.141 per share, which is equal to the five-day volume weighted average price (VWAP) for Unico Shares on the ASX for the five-trading day period ended 18 June, 2024 and (b) an amount equal to the five-day VWAP for Unico Shares on the ASX for the five-trading day period ended on the trading-day immediately prior to the Closing Date.

Each of Mr. Elsztain and Mr. Zang is a director of the Company (though neither is a director of AGCL) and this transaction is therefore a 'related party transaction" as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101, Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101), as well as TSX Venture Exchange Policy 5.9, and is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. However, the transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements of these regulatory instruments because the fair market value of the Unico Shares being sold to each of Messrs. Elsztain and Zang is less than 25% of the Company's market capitalization. However, completion of the transaction remains subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval.

The Agreement and the sale of these Unico Shares has been approved by the Board of Directors of AGCL in the absence of Mr. Elsztain and Mr. Zang. The independent directors are of the view that the Agreement is on terms that would be reasonable - or better than - if AGCL and the related parties were dealing at arm's length. In particular the independent directors noted that the sale price for the Unico Shares is determined by ASX's independent market pricing reflecting unrelated third party trading activity. Upon completion of this transaction, AGCL intends to use the net proceeds of approximately A$905,000 (approximately US$600,000/CDN$822,000) as general working capital in the Company's operations.

There is no finder's fee for the transaction.

About Austral Gold

Austral Gold is a growing gold and silver mining producer building a portfolio of quality assets in the Americas based on three strategic pillars: production, exploration and equity investments. Austral continues to lay the foundation for its growth strategy by advancing its attractive portfolio of producing and exploration assets.

For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.australgold.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.

Release approved by the Company's Chief Executive Officer of Austral Gold, Stabro Kasaneva. For additional information please contact:

Stabro Kasaneva

Chief Executive Officer

Austral Gold Limited

stabro.kasaneva@australgold.com

+56 9 9822 3563

Jose Bordogna

Chief Financial Officer

Austral Gold Limited

jose.bordogna@australgold.com

+61 466 892 307

Forward Looking Statements

Statements in this news release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical, and consist primarily of projections - statements regarding future plans, expectations and developments. Words such as "expects", "intends", "plans", "may", "could", "potential", "should", "anticipates", "likely", "believes" and words of similar import tend to identify forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include the timing of the Closing of this transaction.

All of these forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied, including, without limitation, uncertainty of exploration programs, development plans and cost estimates, commodity price fluctuations; political or economic instability and regulatory changes; currency fluctuations, the state of the capital markets especially in light of the effects of the novel coronavirus, uncertainty in the measurement of mineral resources and reserves and other risks and hazards related to the exploration of a mineral property, and the availability of capital. You are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used. Austral cannot assure you that actual events, performance or results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements, and management's assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Austral's forward-looking statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof and Austral does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213587

SOURCE: Austral Gold Limited
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / BTU METALS CORP. ("BTU" or the "Company") (TSXV:BTU)(OTCQB:BTUMF) announces it has granted a total of 4,850,000 stock options to directors, officers and consultants of the company exercisable at a price of $0.05 per share for a period of three years from the date of grant. The options have been granted in accordance with the company's stock option plan.

About BTU

BTU Metals Corp. is a junior mining exploration company looking to acquire high quality exploration projects to add to its portfolio for the benefit of its stakeholders. The Company's main assets are the Dixie Halo Project located in Red Lake, Ontario immediately adjacent to the Great Bear Project and the recently acquired Echum and Hubcap properties in the active Wawa gold district. The Company has no debt, no property obligations and maintains a cash balance of approximately $1.5M.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Paul Wood"

Paul Wood, CEO, Director

pwood@btumetals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at WWW.SEDAR.COM).

SOURCE: BTU Metals Corp.

View the original press release on accesswire.com


Vice President Ma'ruf Amin waves to residents in the Malawei Fishing Village, Sorong Manoi District, Sorong City, West Papua, on 6 June 2024. The Indonesian government targeted building 350 houses for indigenous Papuan fishers in 2014, but only 40 houses have been completed due to technical constraints, including environmental impact assessments (AMDAL permits). The remaining houses will be completed in 2024/25. (ANTARA FOTO/Olha Mulalinda/Spt.)

JAKARTA, June 20, 2024 - (ACN Newswire) - The Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) team, led by Director General Leonard Louma and Executive Advisor Christopher Nisbert, emphasized that Papua is stable, and conducive overall. Economic and social activities are well and normal. This statement was released after the MSG officials visited the Land of Cenderawasih, as Papua is known, traveling overland from Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG) to Jayapura on Monday, 17 June.Usman Kansong, Head of the Public Communication Task Force for Papua Welfare, appreciated the MSG team's visit. "This is a positive step, and I would like to express my appreciation for MSG because its two leaders were able to witness the real conditions in Bumi Cenderawasih, and various developments that the government has undertaken in Papua," he said in Jakarta on Tuesday, 18 June.During their visit, both Leonard Louma and Christopher Nisbert agreed that Indonesia could serve as a good example of how a country manages its borders. These best practices could be emulated in border areas in the MSG region. They also believe that Indonesia's role in the ASEAN region will be crucial and beneficial for MSG member countries, providing various advantages and benefits in multiple fields.Specifically, Leonard Louma revealed that he would promote cooperation in the plantation sector within MSG that involves Indonesia, including a vanilla plantation program in Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands.?Therefore, he believes it is necessary to create an economic corridor in the form of an MSG vanilla association to strengthen the vanilla commodity in the region.Indonesia's involvement is crucial because it is believed to help open the ASEAN market. This is highly beneficial as MSG is working to build communication and involve Indonesia regionally.?During his visit, Leonard Louma also discussed the potential for cooperation in education between MSG and Indonesia, suggesting that student and faculty exchanges can be realized soon.Separately, Senior Advisor Theo Litaay of the Presidential Staff Office deemed the MSG leaders visit to Indonesia a significant breakthrough that benefits the region across various economic, socio-cultural, and political sectors. "Such regional cooperation will expand economic growth towards the Pacific. The region will benefit from economic growth in Southeast Asia as a driver for development. That is from a regional perspective," he said.Leonard Louma and Christopher Nisbert, with their entourage, arrived in Indonesia from Port Moresby via overland journey to the Skouw-Wutung border on Monday, 17 June. They arrived at the border post around 10:00 AM local time, accompanied by Indonesian Consul General Tangkuman Alexander, and left the post with?Representatives of the Border Affairs and Papua Province Cooperation Agency as they continued their journey to the city of Jayapura, observing developments in Papua.Both MSG leaders attended the MSG Security Strategy (MSG SS) on Wednesday, 19 June, in Jakarta. organized by the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the MSG SS aims to gather various input from Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), including civil society, regarding key priorities in addressing security challenges in the region.* Note: The Melanesian Spearhead Group is an intergovernmental organization, composed of the four Melanesian states of Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, and the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front of New Caledonia. In June 2015, Indonesia was recognized as an associate member.For more information, please contact the Directorate General of Public Information and Communication, Usman Kansong (+62 81 678 5320), or visit https://infopublik.id for up-to-the-minute news.Source: Indonesian Ministry of Communications and Informatics (KOMINFO)Portal Berita InfoPublikCopyright 2024 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
TURIN, Italy, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Fifteen harbours and marinas located in a triangle between Menton, Saint-Tropez and Bonifacio in Corsica, have confirmed that they are keen to apply the SEA Index to their infrastructure. The tool launched in 2020 by the Yacht Club de Monaco as part of the collective 'Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting' approach, represents a benchmark to assess CO2 emissions of yachts over 25 metres. On the 40th anniversary of his presidency at the helm of Yacht Club de Monaco, HSH Prince Albert II hailed the success of the SEA Index, that was recently awarded the CAPENERGIES label as a reliable non-biased tool for owners and stakeholders concerned about the carbon footprint of pleasure boats.



"The SEA Index has become an essential tool. And I would like us now to go even further by measuring other greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution which is a major concern," said HSH Prince Albert II. With this announcement, it's clear an extended harbour-marina network is committed to more sustainable organisation and towards the environmental transition of the territory. "This collaboration marks recognition of the work accomplished by the SEA Index since its launch. Our aim is to federate harbours and marinas across the Mediterranean and beyond by creating a network of committed territories," said Bernard d'Alessandri Yacht Club de Monaco General Secretary.

Deployment of the rating system in 15 harbours and marinas in the Mediterranean basin is an opportunity to respond to growth in yachting notably in the Sud region, which every year attracts over half the world's fleet of 30+ metre yachts, a figure that has increased six-fold in 35 years. According to a study by Earthcase, instigated by the Regional Tourism Committee, the yachting sector in the Sud region has a big impact on the economy of 1.1 billion and 10,200 jobs, with the technical ecosystem contributing 438 million and 3,600 jobs, and the tourism component 663 million employing 6,600 people. With this certification and its index, these harbours and marinas will be able to allocate berths, particularly in high season, to boats with the least impact. Through this new collaboration the SEA Index plans to ramp up its policy to raise awareness of owners by involving as many stakeholders as possible in the yachting industry.

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f7ea247d-f9cc-4f82-afd9-041d82e825c2
CesiumAstros Founder and CEO, Shey Sabripour, pictured in the companys Austin, Texas, New Product Introduction facility. Photo credit: Melissa Glynn

CesiumAstro Inc., an Austin, TX-based provider of space communications technology, closed a $65m Series B+ funding round.

The round was led by Trousdale Ventures, with matching participation from Development Bank of Japan Inc., and Quanta Computer, Inc. (TWSE: 2382.TW), as well as from Kleiner Perkins, Lavrock Ventures, L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX), InMotion Ventures (JLRs investment arm), Matter Venture Partners, MESH Ventures, and Assembly Ventures.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate R&D, expands manufacturing, and support global expansion and talent acquisition.

Led by Shey Sabripour, Founder and CEO, CesiumAstro CesiumAstro builds high-throughput, software-defined phased array communication payloads for airborne and space platforms including satellites, missiles, UAVs, and more. Its full-stack, multi-mission hardware and software products enable a range of commercial, government and defense objectives. CesiumAstro provides full in-house design, manufacturing and testing capabilities based on the ISO AS9100 standard.

The company also has offices in Colorado, California, and the United Kingdom.

FinSMEs

18/06/2024
Bermuda, Bermuda, June 19th, 2024, Chainwire

Licensed digital asset exchange HashKey Global announces that it has received regulatory approval to officially launch its futures trading.

In the initial phase, the platform will support BTC and ETH with the potential of up to 10x leverage. To celebrate the launch, HashKey Global will host a limited-time futures trading campaign and a 100% Invitation Rebate on Futures event. Participants can earn HSK rewards by engaging in futures trading or by inviting friends to trade. HashKey Global aims to provide a secure and user-friendly trading experience, setting a new standard in the licensed futures market.

Act As A Platform, Not A Counterparty

As a mature type of derivatives trading, futures trading has a huge demand in the crypto market. However, due to the lack of effective regulation, there are still widespread issues in the market such as platforms trading against their customers and abusive trading causing significant losses for consumers. These practices have long been criticized by the global crypto community.

HashKey Global, regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA), aims to address these issues by ensuring that customer assets and data are stored separately and independently. The platform does not engage in counterparty trading with customers, thereby reducing the risk of price manipulation and customer losses.

Ben El-Baz, Managing Director of HashKey Global, stated, In recent years, the crypto industry has frequently experienced significant disruptions in the derivatives market. The crypto industry has long awaited a licensed exchange to provide futures trading. With regulatory approval and the official launch of futures trading, HashKey Global will provide a sophisticated and seamless trading interface and a secure, regulated asset environment. We aim to deliver a world-class futures trading experience and reshape the market landscape with licensed futures trading.

Futures Trading Campaign with 100% Invitation Rebate

HashKey Global futures trading will officially launch on June 19, initially supporting BTC/USDT and ETH/USDT trading pairs with the potential for up to 10x leverage.

The first phase of the futures trading campaign will also begin on June 19 at 00:00 (UTC+0). Users participating in futures trading can join the liquidity mining activity to share a prize pool of millions of HSK rewards, maximizing the potential value of their assets. Users will earn 0.3 HSK for every 1,000 USDT traded, and those trading via API can compete for weekly transaction volume rankings, with top prizes reaching up to 300,000 HSK.

Additionally, HashKey Global is launching a 100% Invitation Rebate on Futures Trading campaign. During the promotion period, users will receive 100% of the transaction fees generated by their invited users on perpetual futures trades (non-API transactions) as a rebate reward. The rebate will be converted into HSK and distributed according to the campaign rules.

Participation in the campaign is subject to applicable terms and conditions. For details, users can refer to the campaign announcement and campaign page on HashKey Global.

About HashKey Global

HashKey Global is one of the flagship global digital asset exchanges under HashKey Group, offering licensed digital asset trading services to users worldwide. HashKey Global has obtained a license from the Bermuda Monetary Authority with the potential to provide mainstream trading and service products such as LaunchPad, contracts and leverage trading.

For more details, users can visit global.hashkey.com

Users can follow HashKey on Twitter, Discord, and Instagram.

Disclaimer: HashKey Global is a digital asset trading platform operated by HashKey Bermuda Limited under a Type F license granted by the Bermuda Monetary Authority. This information does not constitute an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any investment product. Investing and trading virtual assets involve risks. HashKey Global does not service users from Hong Kong, United States, Mainland China and certain other jurisdictions in compliance with laws and regulations. Certain services, features, and campaigns may not be available in your jurisdiction.

Participation in this event does not guarantee eligibility, acceptance, or receipt of any rewards, benefits, or incentives. HashKey Global may impose certain criteria, requirements, or limitations for participation, and it reserves the right to deny or disqualify individuals or entities from participating in the event. Hashkey Global reserves the right to make changes, modify, or cancel the event or the eligibility of any participant at any time at its sole discretion, including due to internal control, system issues or other circumstances, without any prior notice or liability.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, HashKey Global, its affiliates, partners, and employees shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, or special damages arising from participants participation in the event, including but not limited to any loss of funds, profits, business, potential profits, data, or reputation.

HashKey Global reserves the ultimate discretion regarding the rules and rewards of the event.

RISK WARNING ABOUT HSK: Please be aware that HSK is not currently listed on any exchange and there is no guarantee that it will be listed in the future. As a result, HSK presently has no established market value. The timeline for the potential listing of HSK remains uncertain. In the event that HSK is successfully listed, it may be subject to various trading restrictions in accordance with applicable regulations and laws. These restrictions may include, but are not limited to, limiting the trading of HSK solely to eligible professional investors in select locations and subject to regulatory approval. The value of HSK is subject to substantial risk and may diminish or fluctuate significantly in response to various market conditions and other factors beyond HashKey Globals control. HashKey Global and its affiliates make no warranties, express or implied, in relation to HSK or any rewards and disclaims any liability relating thereto.

Contact

Senior PR Manager

Luna

HashKey Global

[email protected]


Kapitus, a NYC-based provider of financing for small and medium sized businesses, closed a $45M investment-grade corporate note financing.

The closing of this most recent financing increases the companys total debt facilities to $585M.

Proceeds from the transaction will be used to further expand the companys portfolio of financing products and making further technology investments in its funding platform.

Led by Andrew Reiser, Chief Executive Officer, and Anthony Rose, Chief Financial Officer, Kapitus is a small business financing company. As both a direct lender and a marketplace with a network of financing partners offering a variety of products, Kapitus has provided over $6 billion in growth capital to almost 55,000 small businesses. The company, either directly or through partners, offers products tailored to the need of every small business including term loans, sales-based financing, SBA loans, equipment leases, and revolving lines of credit.

FinSMEs

18/06/2024
LD Carbon, a Seoul, South Korea-based producer of recovered carbon black, raised $28M in Series C funding.

The round was led by Toyotas growth fund, Woven Capital, with participation from Meritz Securities, Investwith, Industrial Bank of Korea, Hyundai Motor Group ZER01NE, Elohim Partners and New Main Capital.

The company intends to use the funds to scale operations to recycle end-of-life tires and material from end-of-life vehicles into recovered carbon black and pyrolysis oil through pyrolysis and material recovery technology, which in turn can be used to create new automotive parts and tires.

Led by CEO Seong Mun Baek, LD Carbon Co., Ltd, is an eco-friendly material industry company, which has developed technologies to produce green carbon black and pyrolysis oil from end-of-life tires. Its tire pyrolysis oil and recovered Carbon Black have passed quality assurance test programs from some of the leading global petrochemical and tire companies. The company is building its first, mass-production pyrolysis factory, with 50ktpa end-of-life tire pyrolysis capacity in South Korea with deployment plan for the following plants in the other APAC region with prominent industrial groups.

FinSMEs

19/06/2024
Liquid Instruments, a San Diego, CA- and Canberra, Australia-based reconfigurable test instrumentation company, secured a new round of funding totaling $12m.

The round led by a $10m investment from Breakthrough Victoria, with other investors including Lockheed Martin Ventures, Acorn Capital, and Powerhouse Ventures.

This funding will enable the company to expand its manufacturing operations in Australia, establish a new office in Melbourne, and scale its global operations while supporting regional economic growth.

Founded in Australia in 2014 and led by Daniel Shaddock, CEO, Liquid Instruments develops reconfigurable test and measurement devices to support and accelerate critical scientific research and development in a range of applications, from optics and photonics to aerospace and defense. The companys flexible Moku platform leverages field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) to integrate a complete suite of test instruments  from bench essentials like an oscilloscope to advanced tools like a lock-in amplifier  into a single, compact device.

With this funding, Liquid Instruments will be able to scale local manufacturing of Moku devices in Australia while recruiting top engineering and manufacturing talent. The company plans to hire dozens of new Melbourne-based employees in high-tech roles, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer science, and advanced manufacturing.

FinSMEs

19/06/2024
Parul Universitys online programs represent a paradigm shift in education, offering learners the opportunity to acquire specialized skills and pursue rewarding careers in their respective fields read more

New Delhi: Parul University, recognized for its commitment to educational excellence, is proud to announce the launch of its Online Master of Computer Applications (MCA) program along with other specialized online courses. These programs are carefully designed to equip students with critical skills in high-demand areas of computing and technology, ensuring alignment with industry needs and future career opportunities.

According to Dr. Devanshu Patel, President of Parul University, Our online programs are a testament to our unwavering commitment to making exceptional education accessible. By merging a forward-thinking curriculum with superior learning resources, we prepare students to thrive and lead in the competitive landscapes of their respective industries.

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Program Details and Objectives

The Online MCA program offers a robust curriculum covering key areas such as software development, database management, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and mobile application development. This comprehensive approach prepares students for diverse professional roles, including software engineer, database administrator, cybersecurity analyst, AI specialist, and mobile app developer.

Alumni Success and Career Advancements

Graduates from Parul Universitys Online programs not only excel academically but also embark on prosperous career journeys. They secure coveted positions in prestigious organizations like Apple, Google, Amazon, and Tesla, highlighting the programs industry relevance. Distinguished professionals such as Gunjan Pandya, Manasi Dalwani, Milind Purswani, and Jay Vaidya thrive in diverse roles, from data engineering to cloud technical management.

Strong Recruiting Network

Parul University proudly stands as a beacon of opportunity for its graduates, supported by an impressive network of over 2,200 recruiters. This extensive network not only opens a plethora of doors for our alumni but also places them in an advantageous position within the competitive job market. The universitys commitment to fostering industry connections has led to remarkable recruitment success, highlighted by an exceptional highest package of 45.98 LPA and a robust average package of 8 LPA. These figures are a testament to the high caliber of our educational programs and the readiness of students to meet the demands of the industry.

In conclusion, Parul Universitys online programs represent a paradigm shift in education, offering learners the opportunity to acquire specialized skills and pursue rewarding careers in their respective fields. With a focus on industry relevance and practical learning, these programs are poised to shape the future of online education.

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For more information about Parul Universitys online programs, click here.
Sonakshi and Zaheer are getting married in a private and intimate ceremony on June 23, and have been together for few years read more

Its just four days away. We are talking about a couple that managed to keep their relationship a secret. Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal are currently the talk of the town as the duo are set to exchange wedding vows on 23rd June.

And the actress could be seen spending time with Iqbal and his family ahead of the big day. The picture was shared by Sinhas sister-in-law Sanam Ratansi on her Instagram story, whos a celebrity stylist.

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Now, Sonakshis brother Luv Sinhas statement to ETimes has now gone viral. While talking about his sisters wedding, Luv was quoted saying, Im out of Mumbai at the moment, and if its regarding the news published, I have no comment or involvement in the matter.

And contrary to reports of her father Shatrughan Sinha being upset with his daughter and not attending the wedding, hes going to grace the ceremony as per a statement by the actress uncle and filmmaker Pahlaj Nihalani.

Speaking to Times Now, the filmmaker said, Ha, but he cant remain upset for long, not with Sonakshi. She is his laadli. Shaadi nahin attend karne ka koi sawaal hi nahi paida hota.

He added, As Shatruji said to you, aaj kal he bachche inform karte hain, permission nahin lete. Why should he be upset if Sonakshi is marrying the boy of her choice? Shatruji himself married a girl of his choice forty years ago. Even I chose my own life partner when I married my wife. One should not have unrealistic expectations from ones children.
Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal are reportedly organising a party for their friends and families in the evening, after completing legal formalities on 23rd June read more

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbals wedding news has been the talk of the town for quite some time. While the duo are set to tie the knot on 23rd June, they have garnered attention for Sonakshis familys non-committal statements.

Actress Swara Bhasker, who faced trolling when she married activist Fahad Ahmad, spoke about how common it is for someone to criticise interfaith marriage. One of the biggest myths of modern India is love jihad, where a Hindu girl marries a Muslim man. This applies to me as well. An interfaith couple can actually get beaten up in certain cities on Valentines Day, said the Raanjhanaa actress while talking to Connect Cine.

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When asked about Zaheer-Sonakshis wedding, she replied, Lots of experts offered their opinions during my wedding as well. But were talking about two consenting adults here. What they do in their private lives, whether they get married or not, its up to them. Its nobodys business if theyre living together, getting married in a court, or having a nikaah, or an Arya Samaj wedding. Its between the man and the woman, and their families. Its Sonakshis life; shes chosen her partner. Her partner has chosen her. Now its between them and their families. I find this a very time-waste debate.

Wait and watch, when they have a child, there will be a separate debate around the childs name. Weve seen it happen with Kareena and Saifs kids, and with my kid. Its completely idiotic, but this isnt going to end anytime soon, Bhasker said.

On the professional front, Sonakshi Sinha recently announced her new project Kakuda with Munjya director Aditya Sarpotdar. The film also stars Saqib Saleem and Riteish Deshmukh in prominent roles. Produced by RSVP, it will premiere on Zee5.
The UKs richest family  the Hindujas  are on trial in Switzerland, battling accusations of human trafficking of their Indian domestic staff. Four family members are in legal trouble over alleged exploitation charges read more

Four Hinduja family members have landed in legal trouble in Switzerland. AFP File Photo

The Hindujas, Britains richest family, is in legal trouble. Four family members have been accused of human trafficking and mistreatment of domestic staff in Switzerland.

The billionaires are on trial in a Swiss court where a prosecutor has alleged the family spent more on caring for their pet dog than their servants.

Who are the Hindujas? What are the shocking charges against them? Lets understand.

Meet the Hinduja family

The Hinduja family, which runs the multinational conglomerate the Hinduja group, has a net worth of $20 billion (Rs 1.7 lakh crore), according to a Forbes estimate last November.

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Founded by Parmanand Deepchand (PD) Hinduja in undivided India, the group has a wide range of businesses  from trucks and shipping to media.

PD Hinduja, who was born in the Sindh district in then undivided India, opened the first international office of the Hinduja group in Iran in 1919. The groups headquarters remained in Iran before shifting to Europe, according to the conglomerates website.

Gopichand Hinduja, a second-generation businessman, is currently the chairman, a role he took over after his older brother Srichand Hindujas death last May.

While he is settled in London, his younger brother Prakash lives in Monaco and the youngest Ashok resides in Mumbai, as per Forbes.

The Hindujas own several prime properties in London, including the Raffles London hotel.

Some of the groups companies include Hinduja Healthcare Limited, Hinduja Bank (Switzerland) Ltd, IndusInd Bank and Ashok Leyland among others.

Charges against Hinduja family

The Hindujas are battling allegations of exploitation of their Indian staff at their Lake Geneva villa.

Swiss prosecutor Yves Bertossa on Monday (17 June) told a criminal court that the Hindujas spent more for one dog than one of their servants, according to Bloomberg.

He alleged that one of the female servants was paid as little as 7 Swiss francs (Rs 660) for 18-hour workdays, seven days a week. On the other hand, the billionaire family spent 8,584 Swiss francs (about Rs 8 lakh) in a year on their pet dog.

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The Hindujas, who own a villa in Genevas wealthy neighbourhood of Cologny, have come under scrutiny for bringing staff from India to take care of their children and household.

Indian-Swiss billionaire family members Namrata Hinduja (L) and Ajay Hinduja (R) arrive at Genevas courthouse with their lawyers Yael Hayat (unseen) and Robert Assael (C) at the opening day of her trial for human trafficking on 15 January 2024. AFP File Photo

According to BBC, Prakash and Kamal Hinduja, along with their son Ajay and his wife Namrata, have been accused of seizing staff passports and restricting their freedom to leave the house.

There are also charges that the staff was paid for their work in India, meaning they had no Swiss money and thus little freedom in the European country.

Bertossa alleged that the staff contract did not set down fixed working hours or week offs but that they have to be available as per the employers needs, reported Bloomberg.

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Trafficking is a serious criminal offence in Switzerland.

The Swiss prosecutor has called for five and half years of prison term for the elderly couple and demanded sentences of four and a half years for Ajay and Namrata.

He also asked the court to direct the family to pay one million Swiss francs in legal costs and 3.5 million francs in compensation funds for the staff.

ALSO READ: Hinduja Succession Feud: Inside the epically messy inheritance dispute of UKs wealthiest family

What have the Hindujas argued?

Although the Hindujas lawyers have not rubbished claims of low wages, they have denied mistreating the staff.

They also pointed out that the domestic workers received accommodation and food. The lawyers also cited servants testimony that they were treated with respect and dignity.

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The salary cant simply be reduced to what they were paid in cash as food and lodging were covered, Yael Hayat, a lawyer for Ajay Hinduja, said, as per Independent.

She also called 18-hour working days an exaggeration.

When they sit down to watch a movie with the kids, can that be considered work? I think not, Hayat said.

According to Bloomberg, Ajay Hinduja claimed during the trial that he did not have a detailed knowledge of the staffs working conditions, adding that their recruitment was managed by the Hinduja Group in India.

The criminal trial continues even after three domestic workers settled a civil case against the Hindujas over alleged exploitation last week.

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With inputs from agencies
A dispute has arisen between the White House and the US media regarding the coverage of Joe Bidens conduct at recent public appearances. Various publications have released videos that seem to depict the US president appearing confused or wandering off, with the White House accusing right-wing critics of promoting cheap fakes read more

United States President Joe Biden speaks during an event marking the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals program, in the East Room of the White House, 18 June, 2024, in Washington. Reuters

The White House has pushed back against recent videos of United States President Joe Biden, which critics have used to suggest that he is mentally and physically unfit for office. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has accused some of these videos of being cheap fakes, suggesting they have been edited to mislead viewers.

Yeah, we  and I think you all have called this the cheap fakes video. And thats exactly what they are. They are cheap fakes video. They are done in bad faith. And  and some of your news organisation have  have been very clear, have stressed that these right-wing  the right-wing critics of the President have a credibility problem because of  the fact checkers have repeatedly caught them pushing misinformation, disinformation, said Jean-Pierre in a press briefing.

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What are cheap fakes?

Coined by Britt Paris and Joan Donovan, co-authors of Deepfakes and Cheap Fakes: The Manipulation of Audio and Visual Evidence, the term cheap fake refers to manipulated audiovisual (AV) content created using inexpensive and accessible software. Unlike deepfakes, which use advanced AI and machine learning, cheap fakes are manually edited, often involving simple techniques like slowing down or speeding up videos, cropping parts, or clipping segments.

While both cheap fakes and deepfakes aim to deceive, they differ in their creation and sophistication. Deepfakes are typically AI-generated, often creating content from scratch, while cheap fakes rely on real source videos that are altered manually.

A deepfake is a video that has been altered through some form of machine learning to hybridise or generate human bodies and faces, whereas a cheap fake is an AV manipulation created with cheaper, more accessible software (or, none at all), says Data Society. Image used for represenational purposes/Pixabay

Deepfakes, unlike cheap fakes, are created using artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques. They can generate highly realistic audiovisual content, often indistinguishable from authentic footage. Cheap fakes, on the other hand, rely on manual editing and are easier to produce, though they can still be convincing to unsuspecting viewers.

This distinction makes cheap fakes harder to detect, as they lack the telltale signs of AI manipulation present in deepfakes.

What are some examples of alleged Biden cheap fakes?

Several videos of President Biden have gone viral, sparking debates about their authenticity and political implications. One such video showed Biden seemingly wandering off during the G7 summit, only to be guided back by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

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WHAT IS BIDEN DOING? pic.twitter.com/iY33K2srII  RNC Research (@RNCResearch) June 13, 2024

What is Biden doing? the Republican National Committees research team asked on social media. However, the White House clarified that he was actually congratulating a parachutist.

United Kingdom PM Rishi Sunak defended Biden, saying, As far as I know he went over to talk to some of the parachute jumpers, saying thank you or hello to them all individually.

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Another video from a Juneteenth concert at the White House showed Biden standing rigid for 30 seconds, which critics interpreted as freezing up, but the White House explained as a moment of limited physical mobility.

 Joe Dancing on the Inside Biden Appears to Completely Freeze at White House Juneteenth Celebrations



This is not AI-generated Biden, showing signs of advanced senility, barely moved during the event pic.twitter.com/0CS6asUb9e  MonitorX (@MonitorX99800) June 11, 2024

During the D-Day anniversary in France earlier in June, another video clip went viral, showing Biden seemingly trying to sit down when no chair is present after shaking hands with French President Emmanuel Macron. This incident is being referred to online as the invisible chair incident.

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However, some argue that the viral clip has been edited, and the full video reveals that Biden was simply pausing to adjust himself in his seat before US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin approached the podium.

This is how misinformation works. They show part of a clip for a reason.



President Biden starts to sit down because that's what he is supposed to do!@CommunityNotes, where are you at?! https://t.co/zTCTRRI6KY pic.twitter.com/6nqnJEned9  Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) June 6, 2024

What could be the political implications?

Should he be re-elected in November, Biden would be 86 years old, further extending his status as the oldest serving US president. Despite being only three years younger at 78, Trump has been highlighting Bidens age and making repeated gaffes himself in recent weeks, consistently portraying Biden as unfit to handle the demands of the presidency.

While Bidens team maintains that his health indicators are positive and that he remains alert and capable of fulfilling all aspects of his role, many Americans seem to hold a different view.

A New York Times/Siena College poll from March revealed that 73 per cent of registered US voters felt Biden was too old to effectively serve as president. In contrast, 42 per cent expressed the same opinion about Trump.

US President Joe Biden, Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Frances President Emmanuel Macron, Japans Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen look on during a skydiving demonstration on the first day of the G7 summit, in Savelletri, Italy, 13 June, 2024. Reuters

The circulation of these videos has raised concerns about their impact on public perception, especially in the context of Bidens age and fitness for office. Previous instances, such as altered videos of former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and ex-Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro, have shown how cheap fakes can distort reality and mislead audiences.

Also Read: Biden and Trump agree to two debates. Heres why it will be different this year

The spread of these videos has ignited a debate over media ethics and political manipulation. While Republicans defend the videos as showing genuine behavior, Democrats argue that they are part of a broader pattern to undermine Biden. The challenge for Democrats is to counter these videos effectively and prevent them from influencing voters, especially as the US presidential election approaches.

With inputs from agencies
In yet another case of hit-and-run, Madhuri, the daughter of Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao, ran over a man sleeping on a footpath in Chennai on Monday night. The victim died, while the woman received bail. But what does the law say? read more

The image of Madhuri (left), which is doing the rounds on social media. She is the daughter of Andhra MP Beeda Masthan Rao (right). Image courtesy: X

Weeks after the Pune Porsche hit-and-run case, another high-profile case has grabbed headlines. It involves the daughter of a Rajya Sabha MP. The woman allegedly ran the BMW she was driving over a man sleeping on a foothpath in Chennai. He reportedly died of his injuries and the woman got bail.

Heres what we know about the case.

What happened in Chennai?

Madhuri, the daughter of YSR Congress Party Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao, was driving the BMW on Monday night. She was accompanied by a friend, another woman, according to a report by NDTV.

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The MPs daughter who was behind the wheel ran the car over a man sleeping on a pavement in an inebriated state. He has been identified as Surya, a 24-year-old painter.

Madhuri reportedly fled from the accident spot immediately. Her friend, however, got out of the vehicle and was arguing with those rushed to the scene after the mishap, reports NDTV.

Surya was rushed to a hospital by passers-by but he succumbed to his injuries.

What happened after the accident?

The police checked the CCTV footage and found that the BMW belonged to the BMR (Beeda Masthan Rao) Group and was registered in Puducherry.

Madhuri was arrested but was granted bail soon after. The Adyar Traffic Investigation Wing police registered a case under section 304 A of the IPC (causing death by negligence), a bailable offence, and issued summons to the car owner, reports PTI.

He [Surya] was sleeping on a pavement in Besant Nagar on Monday night, and a luxury car with a woman behind the wheel ran over him, killing him, a senior police official said.

Surya got married eight months ago and his relatives gathered at the police station demanding strict action.

The friends and family of the victim gathered at the J-5 Shastri Nagar Police Station demanding justice. Image courtesy: X

What do we know about Madhuris family?

Madhuri belongs to an affluent family. Her father BM Roa was elected as a Rajya Sabha MP in 2022. He served as an MLA before.

Roa quit the Telugu Desam Party and joined the YSR Congress in December 2019. He is a backward-class leader belonging to the Yadava community, reports The Week.

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The politician is also the chairman of the e chairman of the BMR Group, a shrimp farming and export firm, which has plants in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

What is the punishment for hit-and-run in India?

Accused in hit-and-run cases are tried under Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code and face penalties of up to two years in jail upon identification. However, the IPC will be replaced by Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), the new official criminal code which will come into effect from 1 July.

Under the BNS, there is a stricter punishment for hit-and-run cases, with the accused facing imprisonment for up to 10 years with a fine.

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The BNS has two distinct categories under the umbrella of causing death by negligence. The first category addresses causing death through any rash or negligent act that does not amount to culpable homicide. Offenders in this category may face imprisonment for up to five years and a fine, reports The Economic Times.

The second category deals with causing death through rash and negligent driving, not amounting to culpable homicide. If the individual flees without reporting the incident to a police officer or magistrate, they could face up to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine.

How common are hit-and-run cases in India?

The Pune Porsche accident has put the spotlight back on hit-and-run cases. On 19 May, the luxury car was allegedly driven by a 17-and-a-half-year-old boy in a drunk state. He hit a motorcycle killing two techies in their 20s at Kalyani Nagar junction around 2:30 am.

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The boy, who was at first let go after writing an essay, has been sent to a remand home and his custody has been extended to 25 June. The boys parents are in police custody in connection with a case related to alleged swapping of his blood samples at the state-run Sassoon General Hospital.

The Porsche car found without number plate, in Pune. The car was allegedly driven by a 17-year-old boy who knocked down two motorbike riders on Sunday, causing their death in Kalyani Nagar of Pune city. File photo/PTI

According to data released by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, India reported over 460,000 road accidents in 2022, up 12 per cent from the previous year. Of these, hit-and-run accidents accounted for over 67,000. Every seventh road accident in the country is a hit-and-run.

Tamil Nadu reported the highest number of road accidents in 2022 at 64,105 followed by Madhya Pradesh and Kerala.

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Hit from back led to the largest number of deaths from accidents in 2022, at 19.5 per cent, followed by hit and run and head-on collision, which accounted for 18.1 per cent and 15.7 per cent, respectively, according to a report in Scroll.

India reports the highest number of road accident deaths globally, according to the transport ministry based on data from the International Road Federation.

With inputs from agencies
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un welcomed Russian president Vladimir Putin in the early hours of Wednesday in Pyongyang with an embrace. The two nations have grown closer since Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022, much to the disgruntlement of the West. But it is not a love match. Observers call it a marriage of convenience read more

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un smile during their meeting at the Pyongyang Sunan International Airport outside Pyongyang, North Korea on 19 June 2024. AP

Russian president Vladimir Putin is in North Korea, his first trip to the hermit kingdom in 24 years. He was embraced by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on his arrival at Pyongyangs airport in the early hours of Wednesday (19 June) before the two headed to Kumsusan State Guest House, according to North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Putins visit aims to bolster relations between the two countries isolated by large parts of the world. Both leaders have their own interests and the Russian presidents two-day trip will likely make both countries happy and vex the West, especially the United States.

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But what is it that Putin and Kim want from each other? Lets take a closer look.

Putin in North Korea

Economic and military initiatives are expected to form the core of the Russian presidents visit to North Korea.

The leaders will hold one-on-one talks on Wednesday. Ahead of his visit, Putin said in a presidential order that Moscow wants to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty with North Korea.

According to Putins foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov, a gala concert, state reception and honour guards are also on the cards, Reuters reported citing Russias Interfax news agency. A visit to an Orthodox church is also on the agenda.

The two leaders are expected to sign agreements and issue a statement to the media, as per the Reuters report.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is welcomed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upon his arrival at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this image released by the Korean Central News Agency June 19, 2024. Reuters

State news agency KCNA described the meeting between Putin and Kim as a historic event that shows the invincibility and durability of Russia and North Koreas friendship and unity, reported Associated Press (AP).

The North Korean outlet described the partnership between the two nations as an engine for accelerating the building of a new multi-polar world.

Putin had said in a letter published by North Koreas state-run newspaper that Russia and North Korea will build trade and payment systems that are not controlled by the West.

The Russian leader said the two countries plan to enhance cooperation in tourism, culture and education.

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He also promised to back North Korea against US pressure, blackmail and military threats.

Moscow and Pyongyang have grown closer since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Kims support for Russia in this war is likely to dominate the talks between the two leaders, noted BBC.

Before his visit, the Russian leader had thanked Pyongyang for showing unwavering support for the Ukraine war, saying the two countries were ready to confront the ambition of the collective West.

What do Russia and North Korea want?

It is a marriage of convenience between Russia and North Korea, analysts said to BBC.

While Russia wants North Koreas ammunition to shore up its dwindling supply for the war in Ukraine, North Korea is eyeing military technology.

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North Korea boasts a huge defence industry with large-scale production capabilities.

Putin and Kim last met in September 2023 when the North Korean leader took his armoured train to eastern Russia. The trip resulted in North Korea reportedly supplying munitions to Russia.

The US State Department said this week that Pyongyang delivered 11,000 containers of munitions to Russia in the past year.

In March, a US official alleged that Russia launched at least 10 North Korea-made missiles on Ukraine since last September.

Moscow and Pyongyang have denied reports of North Korean weapons transfers.

Kim is seeking Putins help to develop missiles and advance its nuclear and space projects. North Korea has been heavily sanctioned by United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for years over its nuclear weapons and missile programmes.

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Putin could agree to provide economic assistance and technology to North Korea in exchange for much-needed artillery rounds.

Russian president Vladimir Putin, right, and North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un talk to each other during their meeting in Pyongyang, North Korea on 19 June 2024. Kremlin Pool Photo via AP

According to a Deutsche Welle (DW) article, the Russian leader may give the green light to supply the natural resources, including oil and gas, that North Korea desperately needs.

North Korea is already receiving food and other essentials from Russia. Putins trip could result in Kim agreeing to send more labourers to Russia to account for the shortage due to military conscription, as per the DW piece.

CNN reports citing experts that Kim is interested in gaining know-how of several Russian advanced weaponry, and technology related to uranium enrichment, reactor designs or nuclear propulsion for submarines.

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However, observers say, it is unlikely that Russia would directly help Kims nuclear programme currently, the American broadcaster reported.

One trip, many messages

Moscows deepening ties with Pyongyang have ruffled feathers in the US and South Korea.

For both Kim and Putin, the visit is a way to convey to the world that they are not alone.

Putin is highlighting that Russia has friends  and is propagating the idea that the war is not winnable for Ukraine because Russia will not run out of weapons, John Erath, senior policy director for the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation non-profit in Washington, told CNN.

Putin will use its alliance with North Korea to show it still has friends and there are other countries opposed to a US-led world.

Yakov Zinberg, a Russian-born professor of international relations at Japans Kokushikan University, called Putins Pyongyang visit threatening.

This is a calculated threat to the US-South Korean-Japanese security alliance in the region and is designed to send the message that not only is he strong on NATO in Europe, but that he is also being strong in the Far East as well, he told DW.

Putin is telling the world he will do what he wants, including travel overseas despite UN sanctions and international arrest warrants against him.

Analysts say the relations between Russia and North Korea are on a level not seen since the Soviet Union era.

While the sustainability of this relationship is yet to be seen, in the short term, Putin and Kim will reap the benefits of their solidarity in what they have framed as a war against the West, Jenny Town, director of the Washington-based Stimson Centers Korea Program and 38 North, told BBC.

With inputs from agencies
The US has sanctioned 4,000 businesses and individuals since Russia attacked Ukraine in February 2022. The European Union (EU), too, has levied restrictions against Russia. Despite this, Putin continues to find ways around these restrictions. We explain how read more

Since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, the West has imposed numerous sanctions on Russia. These sanctions intensified significantly following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite these measures, Russia has shown a remarkable resilience, employing various strategies to bypass the restrictions. We explain the methods Russia uses to get around Western sanctions in depth.

The extent of sanctions on Russia

Since 2014, the United States and the European Union (EU) have levied a multitude of sanctions against Russia. These measures were designed to target key sectors of the Russian economy, including finance, energy, and defence. Following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the West imposed even stricter sanctions, aiming to cripple Russias ability to sustain its military operations. The US alone has sanctioned 4,000 businesses and individuals since Febrauary 2022, according to CNBC.

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Recently, ahead of the G7 summit, Washington introduced over 300 new sanctions, specifically targeting individuals and companies aiding Russia in evading earlier sanctions. Despite these extensive efforts, Russia continues to find ways around these restrictions.

How?

The Eurasian roundabout

One of the most effective methods Russia employs to bypass Western sanctions is through what has been termed the Eurasian roundabout. This involves rerouting sanctioned goods through intermediary countries that are not part of the sanctions regime. In particular, former Soviet republics like Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan play crucial roles in this. These countries are members of the Eurasian Economic Union, a customs-free trade bloc with Russia. That means that goods between these countries and Russia flow unimpeded.

A study by Maxim Chupilkin, Beata Javorcik, and Alexander Plekhanov titled The Eurasian Roundabout: Trade Flows into Russia through the Caucasus and Central Asia sheds light on this phenomenon. The study analyzed HS6 product-level data on bilateral monthly exports, revealing a sharp decline in direct exports from the EU to Russia following the imposition of sanctions in March 2022. Simultaneously, there was a notable increase in EU exports to Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, all until recently members of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) particularly for products subject to sanctions.

From left: Secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation Imangali Tasmagambetov, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, Kazakhstans President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kyrgyzstans President Sadyr Zhaparov, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Tajikistans President Emomali Rahmon pose for a phe prior to a session of the Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) in Minsk, Belarus, 23 November, 2023. File image/AP

Data from Eric Dor, director of economic studies at the IESEG School of Management, supports these findings, AFP reported. His analysis indicates that EU exports of high-priority items to Russia plummeted by 95 per cent between October 2022 and September 2023 compared to the same period in 2020-2021. Conversely, exports of these items to Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan surged dramatically, suggesting that these goods are being re-exported to Russia.

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Assistance from China and other nations

China, along with countries like Turkey and the UAE, has also played a significant role in helping Russia bypass sanctions. Chinese and Hong Kong-based companies have been implicated in shipping millions of dollars worth of materials to Russia, including items that could be used in Russian weapon systems. Chinas extensive manufacturing capabilities make it a vital supplier of critical components, some of which are originally produced by Western companies but find their way to Russia via Chinese intermediaries.

Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a meeting in Beijing, China on 16 May, 2024. Reuters

Turkey and the UAE serve as additional conduits for sanctioned goods. These countries re-export products to Russia, exploiting loopholes in the sanctions regime. This cooperation has made it increasingly challenging for the West to enforce its punitive measures effectively.

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Corporate evasions and the complexity of enforcement

Many companies have adopted sophisticated tactics to evade sanctions. One common strategy involves establishing operations in third countries, thereby facilitating the indirect export of goods to Russia. Additionally, some companies create shell companies to obscure their involvement in transactions with sanctioned entities. This adds a layer of complexity for regulatory authorities attempting to track and enforce compliance.

Another method involves stripping products for their parts. For example, Russia has been suspected of repurposing electronic components from consumer goods like washing machines and dishwashers. The European Union exported 1.6 million euros worth of washing machines to Kazakhstan between 2020-2021. This figure skyrocketed to over 18 million euros in subsequent years, representing a 1,310 percent increase. These components are then used to replace sanctioned parts in critical industries.

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The challenge of meaningful sanctions

The US has acknowledged the difficulty in imposing meaningful sanctions on Russia. Aaron Forsberg, the State Departments Director for Economic Sanctions Policy and Implementation, told the Associated Press, We have to be very honest with ourselves that Putin is a very capable adversary who is willing to adapt and find those willing collaborators.

Despite this, sanctions continue to play a crucial role in raising the costs for Russia, even if they do not completely halt the flow of illicit goods. The primary aim of embargoes, which is to complicate Russias access to crucial technologies, is also somewhat fulfilled. These measures aim to deter countries and companies from assisting Russia and threaten foreign financial institutions with penalties if they engage with sanctioned Russian entities. Nevertheless, cunning businesses and complex evasion tactics continue to undermine these efforts.

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With inputs from agencies
Temperatures have soared above 40 degrees Celsius in Greece as the holiday season gets underway. Now, a half a dozen tourists have been reported dead or missing over the past week. But what do experts say? Is extreme heat really to blame? read more

Tourists with an umbrella walk in front of the Parthenon at the ancient Acropolis in central Athens. AP

Tourists just keep disappearing in Greece.

At least half a dozen holidaymakers have been reported dead or missing over the past week.

The development comes as the nation is experiencing a deadly heatwave.

But what happened? And could extreme heat be the reason for the disappearances and deaths?

Lets take a closer look

What happened?

Authorities are frantically searching for two French women on the island of Sikinos and a US policeman on Amorgos.

CNN reported that the women, aged 73 and 64, went missing during a walk.

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The outlet quoted Petros Vasilakis, head of the Southern Aegean Police press office, as saying that the search is on, but police do not know where they were walking or their ultimate destination.

Vasilakis said one of the women sent an SOS to the guest house she was staying in.

Ilias Gavanas, who owns the guest house where the woman was staying, told The Independent he received a message from her saying I am fall.

We warn them not to go out in the heat, to always inform us where they are, to not wander off alone, Gavanas said. It was 40 degrees.

As per CBS, Sikinos, is a relatively out-of-the-way island in the Aegean Sea.

It has less than 400 residents.

Vassilis Marakis, the mayor of Sikinos, told The Guardian the search was relentless.

Weve been out all morning searching, Marakis said. Volunteers have arrived from Santorini, firefighters, the police, a specially trained dog have all been looking, but the terrain is rocky and full of ravines. The effort has been huge, but the area where they disappeared is difficult and, sadly, we still havent found them.

Albert Calibet, the 59-year-old US policeman, has been missing on Amorgos since 11 June.

As per CBS News, Calibet hails from Californias Hermosa Beach.

He is a retired Los Angeles County Sheriffs deputy.

Vasilakis said Calibet was vacationing on the island by himself.

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But Popi Despotidi, the islands deputy mayor of tourism, told CNN: Its unlikely he got lost as he has been coming here for 10 years and has walked all over Amorgos.

Robin Leon, a family friend, told NBC News, He knows this path, he knows this island.

The mayor knows him, every cafe knows him, people know Albert on that island. They love him, Leon added.

There are two search operations in progress on other islands. Police, firemen and volunteers have been deployed assisted by a drone and a rescue dog," Vasilakis said.

CBS News quoted a state department spokesperson as saying that it was aware of the reports of Calibets disappearance.

A person walks at the village of Rovinia on the island of Corfu. Reuters

The spokesperson said the department would work closely with local authorities as they carry out their search efforts.

The Greek missing persons alert program has issued a notice concerning this case, the state department spokesperson added.

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Were sick to our stomachs, knowing hes out there somewhere, Calibets girlfriend, Debbie Leshane, told KABC.

Leshane told The New York Post she was disgusted by the Greek authorities approach.

Im totally disgusted with the way weve been treated. Albert has been a first responder since he was 25 years old. Everybody deserves to be searched for. But he really, honestly deserves it. We actually literally had splinters going through our shoes into our feet. Its ridiculous, its the seventh day and were beyond panic, Leshane said.

K-9 units have been brought to Amorgos to help in the search for Calibet, ABC News reported.

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A 55-year-old American was found dead on the Greek island of Mathraki on Monday.

ABC News reported that the victim was identified as 55-year-old Toby Sheets.

Ioannis Aivatidis, the coroner in Corfu, told the outlet that Sheets died of drowning

Sheets, who was from New York, was reported missing on Thursday.

He was last seen alive Tuesday at a cafe in the company of two female tourists who have since left the island.

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According to Athens News Agency, he was in Mathraki for a holiday with a Greek-American friend.

Another tourist found Sheets in the sea near the old port of Mathraki and informed the police, AFP reported.

As per The Independent, Mathraki, is a tiny, heavily wooded island west of Corfu.

Just 100 live across its 3.9-square-kilometers.

A 74-year-old Dutch tourist was also found dead on the island of Samos on Saturday.

CNN reported that the tourists body was discovered by a fire department drone in a ravine.

The body was face down around 300 meters from where the tourist was seen nearly a week ago.

A woman walks at the village of Rovinia on the island of Corfu, Greece June 17. Reuters

Days before that, the body of British TV presenter Michael Mosley was discovered on the island of Symi  close to the Turkish coast.

The body was found after a four-day search operation by aircraft, drones and boats.

Mosley had taken a walk alone in high temperatures before he disappeared on 5 June.

A coroner determined that Mosley died shortly after going for a hike over difficult, rocky terrain.

Konstantia Dimoglidou, a spokesperson for the Greek police, told the BBC that an autopsy found no trauma on his body that could have caused his death.

That same day, two hikers were found dead on Crete.

Is the heatwave to blame?

It seems so.

The incidents come as temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius in Greece earlier this month, just as the holiday season began across Greeces remote beaches, ancient sites and mountain trails.

The early heatwave has coincided with a spate of disappearances and deaths of tourists across the Mediterranean country, highlighting the dangers of heat exposure.

Marakis, the mayor of Sikinos, told The Guardian the day the two French women went missing was abnormally hot.

It was extremely hot on Friday, the day they went missing, Marakis said. We had heard about such incidents happening on other islands and now its happened here. Yesterday, we even had a coastguard boat patrolling our islands coast. I wont hide that I am very worried.

Vasilakis told CNN Calibet went missing in 40 degree weather.

There is a common pattern - they all went for a hike amid high temperatures, Petros Vassilakis, the police spokesman for the Southern Aegean, told Reuters.

The village of Pedi is seen, following the search for missing British TV doctor Michael Mosley on the southeastern Aegean Sea island of Symi. Reuters

Experts say the effects of extreme heat on the brain cannot be underestimated.

The brain, for me, is the key to it all, Damian Bailey, a physiology and biochemistry professor at the University of South Wales, told CNN.

He called the brain, which regulates the bodys temperature, its master switch.

Bailey said extreme heat can drain the bodys fluids and halt blood flow to the brain.

Kim Meidenbauer, a neuroscientist at Washington State University, told CNN that extreme heat can stop the brain from functioning properly.

Activities that we take for granted such as thinking, reasoning and remembering can get thrown out of whack, she added.

No one is immune to the health effects of heat, Jose Guillermo Cedeno Laurent, a research author and an assistant professor at the Rutgers School of Public Health added. Our brain is an exquisitely sensitive organ, he said.

You make wrong decisions and it can cost you your life.

The Independent that locals are growing frustrated with tourists underestimating the heat.

There is a sense of frustration among locals [at British tourists] but also they feel very sorry, very sad. They do not want [tourists deaths] to happen  it is also bad for them as a tourist destination, a documentary filmmaker living in Greece told the newspaper.

We saw a couple [of tourists] walking a trail in 41C without hats, local Dimitris Katatzis was quoted as saying. It defies logic.

With inputs from agencies
A visit by US lawmakers to the Dalai Lama in India has angered China. The delegation highlighted its support for Tibetan autonomy, which Beijing views as a threat to its sovereignty. We look at Chinas longstanding and contentious relationship with Tibet read more

Tibetans holding the US, Indian and Tibetan flags wait to welcome a bipartisan US congressional delegation, led by Republican Representative Michael McCaul and including Democratic former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi at the Kangra airport in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, 18 June, 2024. Reuters

A bipartisan delegation of lawmakers from the United States, led by Republican Representative Michael McCaul and including Democratic former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, arrived in the town of Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh on Tuesday (18 June) to meet with the Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama.

This visit is part of an ongoing effort to push China to resolve the long-standing Tibet dispute. The delegations visit has sparked significant backlash from Beijing, coming at a time when the US and China are attempting to stabilise their rocky relationship.

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The US delegations visit aims to discuss the recently passed Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act, commonly known as the Resolve Tibet Act. The bill urges Beijing to engage in dialogue with Tibetan leaders, a process that has been stalled since 2010, to negotiate an agreement on Tibets future. The bill is now awaiting US President Joe Bidens signature.

We are very excited to see His Holiness tomorrow to talk about many things, including the bill we just passed out of Congress that basically says the United States of America stands with the people of Tibet, McCaul had said. He confirmed that Biden would soon sign the bill into law.

Michael McCaul, the US Republican chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, speaks at the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, 18 June, 2024. Reuters

Upon their arrival at Kangra airport, the delegation was greeted by crowds of Tibetans, including school children holding banners and dozens of monks and nuns in maroon robes, who cheered as the lawmakers made their way to meet the Dalai Lama.

Beijings reaction to the US visit

China has expressed serious concern about the visit of the US lawmakers to Dharamsala and the potential signing of the Resolve Tibet Act by Biden. Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, stated, We urge the US to fully recognise the anti-China and separatist nature of the Dalai clique, abide by its commitments on Tibet-related issues, refrain from any form of contact with it, and stop sending erroneous messages.

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He stated that Tibets affairs are purely internal matters for China and warned that Beijing would take resolute and forceful measures to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests.

The Dalai Lama, who fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in Tibet, is viewed by Beijing as a dangerous separatist. Chinese officials have long been irked by his interactions with foreign officials, and the recent visit by the US delegation has further fueled their ire.

Tibetans living in exile in India shout anti-Beijing slogans after burning a Chinese flag in New Delhi, 18 August, 1995. File Image/Reuters

Its known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a pure religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion, Lin added, urging the US side to have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world.

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Despite Beijings protests, the Dalai Lama denies being a separatist and insists that he only advocates for substantial autonomy and the protection of Tibets native Buddhist culture under Chinese rule.

Historical context of China-Tibet relations

The conflict over Tibets status within China is deeply rooted in historical claims and political developments. Chinas motivations for annexing Tibet in 1950 were both ideological and pragmatic.

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) aimed to shore up Chinas southwestern border and access Tibets plentiful natural resources. Ideologically, the CCP viewed Tibet as a feudal-theocracy that needed liberation and believed that Tibet had always been a part of China, making its incorporation a historical necessity.

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However, Tibets history is complex and distinct. Prior to the 1950 invasion, Tibet had existed independently of Chinese control, with its own unique culture, language, and religion. Even after the Qing dynasty established suzerainty over Tibet in 1720, Tibetans remained largely free of direct Chinese interference. Following the end of Qing rule in 1911, Tibet functioned as a de facto independent state until the Chinese invasion.

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama greets a guest as he leaves after attending a special event during which exile Tibetans made him traditional offerings and prayed for his long life, at the Tsuglagkhang temple in Dharamshala, 11 June, 2024. File Image/AP

The Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) crossed the Jinsha (Yangtze) River and entered Tibet on 7 October, 1950. By 19 October, they had captured Chamdo, neutralising the Tibetan garrison there. Over 3,000 Tibetans were made prisoners, and at least 180 died in the fighting. The defeat led to the signing of the Seventeen Point Agreement in May 1951, which effectively subordinated Tibet to China while promising to maintain Tibetan autonomy, culture, and religion.

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Despite these assurances, Chinese interference in Tibetan affairs grew, leading to widespread unrest. By 1959, frustration with Chinese policies led to a revolt in Lhasa.

Also Read: Tibetan culture, livelihoods are being damned in Xi Jinpings China

Fearing arrest by the Chinese, the Dalai Lama fled to India on 23 March, 1959, repudiating the Seventeen Point Agreement and proclaiming himself Tibets legitimate representative. Since then, Chinas control over Tibet has been absolute, with severe crackdowns on dissent and efforts to assimilate Tibetans into Chinese culture.

The role of the Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is revered by Tibetans worldwide as their spiritual leader. Since his exile in India, he has lobbied for Tibetan self-rule and substantial autonomy under Chinese sovereignty. He received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his efforts to resolve the Tibet issue peacefully.

The Dalai Lama has a history of engaging with US officials. He has met with every American president from Jimmy Carter to Barack Obama, except for Donald Trump, and is yet to meet Joe Biden. These meetings have often led to stern condemnation from China, which views them as undermining its sovereignty and supporting Tibetan independence.

The Dalai Lama talks with then-US President Clinton in the White House, 23 April, 1997. File Image/Reuters

The recent visit by US lawmakers to Dharamsala is seen by China as part of a broader strategy by Washington to counter Beijings influence. This perception is compounded by the strengthening of US-India relations, with both countries viewing each other as counterweights to Chinas rising power.

Chinas tightening grip on Tibet

Since the 1959 uprising, China has tightened its grip on Tibet, implementing policies aimed at assimilating Tibetans and eradicating dissent. Beijing has facilitated the influx of Han Chinese into Tibet, changing its demographic and cultural landscape. The Chinese government has also installed its own people in key religious positions, further eroding Tibetan autonomy.

In recent years, China has also sought to control the process of selecting the Dalai Lamas successor. Beijing insists that it has the right to approve the next Dalai Lama, a claim rooted in its historical role of endorsing Tibetan Buddhist leaders.

A lone protestor wearing a Free Tibet t-shirt on the balcony of Harvard Universitys Sanders Theater shouts human rights and turns his back as then-Chinese President Ziang Zemin begins to take questions from the audience after his speech to students and China scholars at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, 1 November, 1997. The presidents visit was greeted by protests over human rights and Tibet. File Image/Reuters

The Dalai Lama, however, has stated that his successor may be found outside Tibet, possibly in India, a move that Beijing strongly opposes.

What the future may hold

The ongoing tension between China and Tibet remains a significant issue in international politics. The US and other countries continue to express support for Tibetan autonomy and cultural preservation. The Resolve Tibet Act, if signed into law by Biden, will further solidify US support for the Tibetan cause and pressure China to engage in dialogue.

Former US House speaker Nancy Pelosi along with Michael McCaul, the US Republican chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, takes part during a function in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, 19 June, 2024. Reuters

The Dalai Lamas health remains a concern as he approaches his 89th birthday. He is expected to travel to the US for medical treatment, but it is unclear if he will meet with any officials during his visit. The question of his successor looms large, with the potential to further escalate tensions between China and the Tibetan exile community.

Also Read: With China willing to discuss Dalai Lamas future, Tibetan fate hangs in balance

The historical context of China-Tibet relations, coupled with recent developments, has only underlined the complexity and sensitivity of this issue. The US, along with India continues to be focused on finding a peaceful resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of the Tibetan people.

With inputs from agencies
The Indian Consulate General in Vancouver announced it will hold a memorial service for the victims of the Kanishka bombing on the same day that Canadas Parliament observed a moment of silence to mark the first death anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Heres why the bombing of Air India Flight 182 continues to haunt India-Canada ties 39 years later read more

Canadas worst air disaster and terrorist attack  and one of the biggest terror attacks in the world pre-9/11.

The relationship between India and Canada continues to be strained.

The Indian Consulate General in Vancouver has announced that it will hold a memorial service on Sunday for the victims of the Kanishka bombing.

India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. (1/3)  India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) June 18, 2024

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This came on the same day that Canadas Parliament observed a moment of silence to mark the one-year death anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Nijjar, whom the Indian government designated a terrorist, was shot dead in June 2023 outside a Sikh gurdwara in Canadas Surrey.

Ties between India and Canada came under strain after Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau accused agents of the Indian government of potentially being involved in the killing of Nijjar.

India responded by dismissed the accusations as absurd and motivated and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move to Ottawas expulsion of an Indian official over the case.

India in September advised all its nationals living in Canada and those contemplating travelling there to exercise utmost caution in view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes as well as criminal violence in that country.

India also announced that it was temporarily suspending issuance of visas to Canadian citizens in view of security threats faced by its high commission and consulates in Canada.

India in October renewed visa services for Canadians.

The Indian Consulate General said the memorial service will be held at 6.30 pm on Sunday at the Air India Memorial at Stanley Parks Ceperley Playground area.

It urged the members of the Indian diaspora to join the event in a show of solidarity against terrorism.

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But what do we know about the Kanishka bombing? Why does it continue to overshadow India-Canada ties?

Lets take a closer look:

Kanishka bombing

Air India Flight 182, which carried 329 people, took off from Montreal on 23 June, 1985.

According to Outlook, the Boeing 747 was named Kanishka after the ancient Indian emperor from the Kushan dynasty.

Most aboard were Canadians of Indian-origin. There were also two dozen Indians.

A Boeing 747-200 Kanishka landing at London Heathrow Airport. Image courtesy: Ian Kirby/airliners.net

Though the flights ultimate destination was New Delhi, the plane was making a stopover at Londons Heathrow Airport.

Then, 45 minutes before it was slated to land at Heathrow, the plane exploded.

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There were no survivors.

It was Canadas worst air disaster and terrorist attack  and one of the biggest terror attacks in the world pre-9/11.

As per BBC, a bomb had been smuggled aboard the plane in a suitcase.

The suitcase belonged to a person called Manjit Singh, as per CBC News.

Singh was not on the flight when it took off.

Just 131 bodies were retrieved.

A second bomb exploded in Japans Tokyo airport that same day  leaving two baggage handlers dead.

The bomb was meant for the Air India Flight 301 to Thailands Bangkok.

The Canadian Encyclopaedia stated, Japanese baggage handlers Hideharu Koda and Hideo Asano were unloading suitcases from a CP flight at Tokyos Narita Airport on 23 June 1985. As they grabbed one of the bags from Vancouver that was tagged for an Air India flight, it exploded. They were killed instantly."

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Authorities in Canada said the Kanishka bombing was carried out by Sikh extremists as revenge for Operation Blue Star  which saw Indian forces storm the Golden Temple to flush out militants in 1984.

The suspects

Authorities in Canada soon arrested two men for the bombing  Talwinder Singh Parmar and Inderjit Singh Reyat.

Parmar headed up Babbar Khalsa  an extremist group that has since been banned in both countries. Reyat, meanwhile, was an electrician.

Reyat had purchased the dynamite, batteries and detonators used to construct the bombs.

Both men were charged with conspiracy, possessing weapons and explosives.

An artists rendering show Air India bombing suspect Inderjit Singh Reyat as he sits in a Vancouver courtroom. To this day, Reyat remains the only person convicted in the bombing. AFP

However, Parmar was later released after investigators could not make a strong case against him.

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Interestingly, India under then prime minister Indira Gandhi had attempted to get Parmar extradited in the 1980s.

However, the Canadian government led by Pierre Trudeau  the father of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau  blocked the request.

Parmar was ultimately killed in India in an encounter with Punjab Police in 1992.

As per BBC, Reyat was sentenced to 10 years in jail in the UK for the Japan bombing.

Reyat, in 2003, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the Kanishka case.

Reyat, who admitted helping construct the bomb, but denied knowing its intended target, was given a five year sentence.

By then, police had arrested two other men in the case  Ripudaman Singh Mali and Ajaib Singh Bagri.

Mali was a wealthy Vancouver businessman, while Bagri was a mill worker from British Columbia.

Malik and Bagri were both acquitted in March 2005 after a 19-month trial.

Malik was acquitted of charges of financing the plot, while Bagri was acquitted of transporting the bomb to Vancouver airport.

This came after British Columbia Supreme Court Justice Ian Josephson ruled that the Crowns case against the two was too weak for a conviction.

BBC at the time reported that the people in the courtroom were left stunned by the verdict.

The relatives of the victims broke down in court.

The names of the victims of the Air India bombing etched into the Air India memorial in Vancouver. Reuters

To this day, Reyat remains the only person convicted in the bombing.

In 2010 Reyat was convicted of lying while testifying in the mass murder trial of Malik and Bagri.

Prosecutors said the verdict in the trial of Malik and Bagri would have been different if Reyat had told the truth on the stand instead of protecting his alleged co-conspirators.

Judge Ian Josephson called him an unmitigated liar.

His nine-year perjury sentence was the longest ever handed down by a Canadian court.

Reyat in 2016 was released after serving two-thirds of his sentence.

His release at the time generated much outrage.

Its absolutely ridiculous that the parole board will let him out, Andre Gerolymatos, a co-director of terrorism, risk and security studies at Canadas Simon Fraser University, told CBC News at the time.

Reyats release, incidentally, came soon after Justin Trudeau took over as prime minister of Canada.

Why it continues to overshadow relations

The wounds of the Kanishka bombing have never really healed.

In fact, the bad feelings preceded the bombing because of the Pierre Trudeau government blocking Parmars extradition in 1982.

Pierre Trudeau blocked the extradition of Talwinder Singh Parmar in the 1980s. Reuters File Photo

As per Business Today, journalist Terry Milewski wrote in his book Blood for Blood, It was Pierre Trudeaus government which refused the 1982 Indian request to extradite Talwinder Parmar to India for murder, on the quaint grounds that India was insufficiently deferential to the Queen. That is not a joke. Canadian diplomats had to tell their Indian counterparts that the extradition protocols between Commonwealth countries would not apply because India only recognised Her Majesty as Head of the Commonwealth, and not as Head of State. Case closed!

Canadian investigators have also been accused of bungling the case.

In 2004, even as the trial against Bagri and Malik was wrapping up, a newspaper reported that the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) bungled in the case at various stages.

Quoting from a 19-year-old secret CSIS documents, the Globe and Mail newspaper (which obtained these after legal action) revealed that the CSIS failed to keep track of Parmar.

The intelligence surveillance against Parmar was mounted even before the Air India bombing took place. The CSIS suspected that he was plotting to kill the then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.

The surveillance was conducted to ascertain the associates, contacts, movements and activities of Parmar and obtain photos of Parmar and all those he was in contact with, the secret documents say.

Parmar came under the intelligence scanner 39 times between 6 April, 1985, and 23 June, 1985 (the day of the Air India blasts).

The newspaper quotes the surveillance documents to show how Parmar slipped away while the agents were following him just before the Air India disaster. It also reveals how the agents were caught by Parmars neighbours who reported their activities to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. And how the agents assigned to keep an eye on Parmar were shifted to other targets just before the bombs were loaded on to the aircraft.

The wreckage of an Air India jet that was bombed over the Atlantic. Reuters

A few days before the Air India disaster, the agents spotted Parmar leave his house with an unidentified woman, go to another home, go shopping, drive to a farmhouse outside Vancouver and head west along the Trans-Canada Highway. The agents simply abandoned the chase after some time, the report says.

Surveillance documents also give accounts that played a prominent role in the on-going Air India trial, including the surveillance of a test blast of a homemade bomb on 4 June, 1985; an alleged meeting of conspirators on 18 June, 1985, at Parmars house and the arrival of Bagri outside Parmars house.

Surprisingly, after Ajaib Singh Bagris arrival, the CSIS discontinued surveillance of Parmars house, says the newspaper reports, quoting the secret documents.

The CSIS also bungled when it erased the tapes of Parmars phone calls before and after the Air India bombing.

The fallout of the case continues.

Parmar, to this day, remains a hero of pro-Khalistan extremists in Canada.

The banned group Sikhs For Justice has named its campaign centre after him.

While then Canadian prime minister Stephen Harper issued a heartfelt apology to the families of the victims in 2010, many argue not enough has been done.

The final report into the Air India tragedy that killed 329 people recommended ex-gratia payment to families of victims, mostly of Indian-origin, and blamed the Canadian government for its failure to prevent the countrys worst terror attack.

India has accused Canada of going soft on Khalistani extremists for years.

It says the events of the case further emboldened Khalistani extremists who began operating with impunity from Canada.

In the last decade, links of Canada-based Khalistani extremists have emerged in more than half of the terror cases reported from Punjab, India says.

With inputs from agencies
Despite their decline due to invasions and political turmoil, these institutions continue to influence modern scholarship and our understanding of early educational traditions read more

Throughout history, the Indian subcontinent has been home to some of the worlds oldest and most prestigious centers of learning, many of which laid the foundational stones for various fields of knowledge and culture. Apart from Nalanda, the Indian subcontinent once housed several ancient universities that have now fallen into ruins, each contributing significantly to the realms of education, philosophy and science. These institutions, despite their decline due to invasions and political instability, these ancient centres of learning continue to influence modern scholarship and our understanding of early educational traditions. Here are five of them:

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1. Takshashila: Takshashila, one of the worlds earliest universities, dates back to at least the 6th century BCE and was located in present-day Pakistan. It was a significant centre of learning, attracting students from across Asia. Founded by Kuru prince Duryodhana at the birthplace of his mother Gandhari, now in the Rawalpindi district, the university is referenced in ancient scriptures like the Mahabharata as Gandhara.

According to My India Glory, Takshashila offered courses in medicine, grammar, logic, philosophy and astronomy. Notable scholars who studied there include Sanskrit linguist Panini, physician Charaka, surgeon Jivaka Komarabhacca, philosopher Chanakya, author Vishnu Sharma, and Maurya emperor Chandragupta. According to Vedveer Aryas The Chronology of Ancient India  Victim of Concoctions and Distortions, the Maurya dynasty flourished in the 16th century BCE, placing Chanakya and Chandragupta Maurya around 3,600 years ago, confirming Takshashilas antiquity of over 3600 years.

2.Vikramshila University: Vikramshila University, located 50 km east of Bhagalpur in Bihar, was established by Pala king Dharampala in the late 7th century CE, emphasizing the Pala rulers commitment to education. It attracted students from across India and abroad, with over 100 teachers instructing more than 1,000 students. The university complex included several temples, managed by around 108 scholars and six Acharyas, with the Kulpati or Mahasthavir as the highest authority. The campus featured six colleges connected by gates, with a central building called Vigyan Bhawan.

My India Glory said that subjects offered included Logic, Philosophy, Vyakaran, Tantra Shastra and Karamkanda with Tantra Shastra later becoming particularly prominent. Notable alumni include Atisa Dipankara, a founder of the Sharma traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. In 1203 CE, Vikramshila University was destroyed by Bhaktiyar Khilji, who also razed Nalanda University, killing its monks and students.

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3. Mithila University: Mithila University, also known as Maithili University, was an ancient centre of learning in present-day Bihar, India, renowned for its contributions to Sanskrit literature, arts, and sciences. It played a key role in spreading knowledge across the Indian subcontinent, focusing on languages, literature, philosophy and sciences. Historically significant as the kingdom of King Janaka, it hosted religious conferences attended by sages and scholars. Notable figures include poet Vidyapati and mathematician Ganesha Upadhyaya, who founded the Navya-Nyaya school of logic. The university was also known for its rigorous Salaka-pariksha exams. Despite decline due to invasions, its legacy continues to influence the regions cultural and educational heritage.

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4. Vallabhi University: Vallabhi University is located in present-day Gujarat, India, was one of the foremost centres of learning in ancient India, established in the 5th century CE and thriving until the 12th century CE. It was renowned for its studies in Buddhist philosophy, logic, mathematics, medicine, and arts, with a particular emphasis on Mahayana Buddhism. The university attracted numerous scholars, including notable figures like Buddhaghosa, who made significant contributions to Buddhist literature and teachings. Vallabhi was not only a hub for academic and religious education but also a vibrant centre for cultural activities and monastic life, hosting important religious conferences and discussions. Despite its decline due to invasions, particularly by Mahmud of Ghazni in the 12th century, Vallabhi Universitys legacy continues to highlight the rich educational and cultural heritage of ancient India, significantly influencing the spread and development of Buddhist thought and other intellectual traditions.

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5. Jagaddala University: Jagaddala University, established in the 8th century CE during the Pala dynasty in present-day Bangladesh, was a prominent centre of learning. Located near the village of Jagaddal in Bengal, it was renowned for its studies in Buddhist philosophy, scriptures, and diverse fields like mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and logic. The university attracted scholars from across India and Southeast Asia, fostering a vibrant intellectual community. Its architecture featured a large monastic complex with lecture halls, meditation rooms, and monk residences, reflecting the eras advanced construction and artistry.

Jagaddala played a crucial role in spreading Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, with notable scholars such as Dharmapala making significant contributions to Buddhist literature and philosophy. The universitys decline began in the 12th century due to invasions and political instability. Today, the ruins of Jagaddala are an archaeological site of great importance, preserving the rich educational and cultural heritage of ancient Bengal. Its legacy continues to inspire studies in ancient Indian education and Buddhist thought.
The wheel of election is moving in Jammu and Kashmir. It will be its first Assembly election since it was restructured as a Union Territory and stripped off of the special status it enjoyed once read more

(File) People stand in line to vote at a polling station during the fourth general election phase, in south Kashmir's Pulwama district, on 13 May, 2024. Reuters

On June 19, 2018, the last Jammu and Kashmir government ceased to exist. Then-chief minister Mehbooba Mufti resigned as the coalition of her Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the nationally ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) broke up. Mufti blamed her resignation on the muscular policy of the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir.

It has been six years since Jammu and Kashmir saw its last local government elected by the voters. The status quo of the central rule looks set to change. About 8.7 million voters will be electing their Assembly and therefore their local government by September.

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When Jammu and Kashmirs last elected government fell

With differences growing over a number of issues with Muftis PDP, the BJP pulled out of the coalition in Jammu and Kashmir on June 19, 2018. Ram Madhav, the BJP leader who had played a key role in cobbling up the unnatural alliance in Jammu and Kashmir, told a news conference in New Delhi, It has become untenable for the BJP to continue with the alliance government in Jammu and Kashmir.

The BJP favoured Governors rule in Jammu and Kashmir. Madhav said, Keeping in mind that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India and in order to control the prevailing situation in the State, we have decided that the reins of power in the state be handed over to the Governor.

This left no alternative before Mufti but to resign as both the J&K National Conference and the Congress  the two other major parties  had refused to ally with her PDP for government formation.

We defended Article 370 and 35A, Mufti said after her resignation, We cant treat J&K as enemy territory. There is no room for muscular policy in the state.

The big change that Jammu and Kashmir underwent

NN Vohra, then J&K governor, sent his report to the President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, recommending the imposition of Governors Rule. The Raj Bhawan spokesperson said, After concluding consultations with all the major political parties in J&K, Governor Vohra has forwarded his report to the President of India for imposition of Governors Rule under Section 92 of the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir."

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By the end of 2018, the Centre imposed Presidents Rule in Jammu and Kashmir which is still in force there. But the biggest change came in Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, when the Narendra Modi government, having been voted back, brought resolutions and bills in Parliament to bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir, convert both the units into Union Territories and scrap the special status of the territories by ceasing the operation of Article 370 of the Constitution of India there.

With upgraded security arrangements, the central government has managed to prevent much-anticipated civil and militant unrest in the Kashmir Valley, and also bring down terror incidents in the Union Territory  which has incidentally seen an uptick with the Assembly election looking on the horizon.

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It came from Supreme Court, now over to Election Commission

On December 11, the Supreme Court of Indias constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud set a deadline for the national government to hold the Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir. The court gave time till September to conduct the polls in the Union Territory as it upheld the abrogation of Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir when it enjoyed statehood and before it was bifurcated to create another Union Territory, Ladakh, in 2019.

Soon after the Election Commission announced the Lok Sabha poll results, it kick-started the election process for Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. On June 7 (three days after the Lok Sabha election results were announced), the poll panel invited applications from political parties for the use of common symbols for their candidates.

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An EC statement said, The Commission has decided to accept applications seeking allotment of Common Symbol under Para 10B of the Election Symbols (Reservation & Allotment) Order, 1968 for the General Election to the Legislative Assembly of Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir with immediate effect.

This symbol allocation process usually starts six months before the term of an Assembly is to end. Since J&K does have an Assembly, the EC decided to start the process after the Lok Sabha election was over. A short-term special summary revision of the electoral roll would be carried out before the Assembly election.

Jammu & Kashmir recorded a voter turnout of 58.58 per cent in the Lok Sabha election held for its five seats. It was the highest voter turnout in 35 years, with a rise of 23 percentage points compared to the 2019 election.

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A delimitation has also happened

A Delimitation Commission was set up in 2020 to redraw the boundaries of the Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies after Jammu and Kashmir was divided into two Union Territories  J&K (with an Assembly) and Ladakh (without Assembly) in 2019.

The process was completed and a delimitation order passed in May 2022. It created a 90-member Assembly, with 47 seats in Kashmir and 43 in Jammu  for which election will happen before September 30.

Whats happening now?

Two days after the Election Commission formally started the Assembly election process for Jammu and Kashmir and barely an hour before Narendra Modi was sworn in as the prime minister for the third consecutive term on June 9, nine pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, including a two-year-old child, were killed when terrorists ambushed the bus they were travelling in. The bus fell into a gorge.

This happened in the Reasi district that had been peaceful for the past 15 years. Over the next 48 hours, three more terror incidents took place in Kathua and Doda districts of the Jammu region  at least two militants and a Central Reserve Police Forces (CRPF) jawan were killed. Seven security personnel were injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked security officials to deploy all their anti-terror surveillance capability to foil the plan to disrupt the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has held a series of meetings with top officials of the security apparatus including the Army, the intelligence and the police to see that a tight vigil is maintained in Jammu and Kashmir.

The government has sent 50 battalions of additional central forces (about 50,000) to Jammu and Kashmir to beef up its security.

PM Modi is expected to be in Srinagar on this years Yoga Day, an initiative of his government that has drawn global attention and something he participates in with great fanfare. In 10 days from now, the annual Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage is expected to begin. The Yatra is likely to run its full course  first since 2018  from June 29 to August 19. All these events require a tight security cover in Jammu and Kashmir as they would happen in the build up to the Assembly election that is bound to get eyeballs from across the world.
MSP of the most popular Kharif crop, paddy, is increased by Rs 117 per quintal  from Rs 2,183 per quintal in 2023-24 to Rs 2,300 in 2024-25 read more

The Union Cabinet, on Wednesday, approved the increase in the minimum support price (MSP) for Kharif crops for marketing season 2024-25.

With todays decision, the farmers will get around Rs 2 lakh crores as MSP. This is Rs 35,000 crore more than the previous year, Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told at a media briefing on Cabinet decisions on Wednesday in New Delhi.

#WATCH | On Union Cabinet decision on MSP for Kharif season crops, Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says, "With today's decision, the farmers will get around Rs 2 lakh crores as MSP. This is Rs 35,000 crores more than the previous season." pic.twitter.com/cUjJIqpzJ1  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

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He further said that the Cabinet has approved MSP on 14 Kharif season crops including paddy, ragi, bajra, jowar, maize and cotton.

MSP of the most popular Kharif crop, paddy, is increased by Rs 117 per quintal  from Rs 2,183 per quintal in 2023-24 to Rs 2,300 in 2024-25, the minister said.

The highest absolute increase in MSP over the previous year has been recommended for oilseeds and pulses viz. nigerseed (Rs 983 per quintal) followed by sesamum (Rs 632 per quintal) and tur/arhar (Rs 550 per quintal).

The Government has increased the MSP of Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2024-25, to ensure remunerative prices to the growers for their produce, the Modi Cabinet said.

Vaishnaw said, The third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is very important as it focuses on continuity with change through many decisions for farmers welfare."

He further said that the two terms of the Modi government had laid a strong base of economic growth and significant decisions would be taken in the third term for the benefit of people.

The Union Minister also said that the government is committed to providing price to farmers at 50 per cent more than the input cost and the decisions were aligned to that objective.

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After taking oath as the Prime Minister for the third consecutive time, Modi signed his first file authorising the release of the 17th installment of PM Kisan Nidhi reflecting the commitment of the government towards farmer welfare.

On Tuesday, PM Modi addressed an event in Varanasi where he released the 17th installment amounting to more than Rs 20,000 crores to around 9.26 crore beneficiary farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) through Direct Benefit Transfer.
Air India flight 182 (Kanishka) was flying from Montreal to London via Toronto when it was blown up by Khalistani terrorists read more

As the Canadian Parliament held a moment of silence to pay respect to Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on his one-year death anniversary, the Indian Consulate in Vancouver on Wednesday remembered the lives lost in the infamous Kanishka plane crash in 1985.

The Consulate General of India on X said, India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat.

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23 June 2024 marks the 39th Anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation, it added.

A memorial for the victims of the plane crash will be held on June 23 at the Air India Memorial at Stanley Parks Ceperley Playground area. The Indian diaspora has been invited to participate in the event.

India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. (1/3)  India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) June 18, 2024

The post came as the Canadian Parliament observed a moment of silence to mark the one year of Nijjars killing. Four Indian nationals have been accused and charged with the murder of the Khalistan Tiger Force chief.

Since then, India-Canada relations have hit rock bottom since Nijjars killing with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accusing India of being directly linked to his murder.

What was the Kanishka plane blast?

The biggest and most heinous plane hijack incident after the 9/11 attacks, the Kanishka plane crash killed 329 people, including many Canadians.

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The plane was flying from Montreal to London via Toronto when it was blown up by Khalistani terrorists.

While some of its remains were scattered over Irelands Cork region most of the debris of the plane sank into the North Sea. None of the passengers or the crew survived the crash.
A high-level US congressional delegation, including former House speaker Nancy Pelosi, met the Dalai Lama at his residence in Himachal Pradeshs Dharamshala on Wednesday, drawing a sharp criticism in advance from the Chinese government which views the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader as a separatist read more

Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi arrives to meet the Dalia Lama in Dharamshala on Wednesday. ANI

A high-level US congressional delegation, including former House speaker Nancy Pelosi, met the Dalai Lama at his residence in Himachal Pradeshs Dharamshala on Wednesday, drawing a sharp criticism in advance from the Chinese government which views the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader as a separatist.

#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh: Visuals from Dalai Lama Temple in Dharamshala. Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other members of the U.S. Congressional delegation also arrived at Dalai Lama Temple complex to have an audience with the Tibetan Spiritual leader. pic.twitter.com/2Y8bET1r9c  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

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Led by Michael McCaul, the Republican chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, the delegation arrived in Dharamshala on Tuesday, which has been the Dalai Lamas home since the 1960s.

During their visit, the delegation also met with representatives of the Tibetan government in exile, which advocates for Tibetan autonomy under Chinese rule.

The congressional visit comes after the recent passage of a bipartisan bill urging China to engage in dialogue with Tibetan leaders to address longstanding conflicts.

#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh: Members of the U.S. Congressional delegation at the Dalai Lama Temple complex in Dharamshala. The delegation had an audience with the Dalai Lama. pic.twitter.com/UDYqELx62c  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

Chinas criticism of the visit was immediate and unsurprising. Its leaders consider the government in exile illegal and regard any support for the cause of autonomy for Tibet, which they call Xizang, as interference in internal Chinese matters.

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We urge the US side to fully recognize the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honor the commitments the US has made to China on issues related to Xizang, stop sending the wrong signal to the world, The New York Times report the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi as saying in a statement on Tuesday night.

US officials have frequently engaged with the 88-year-old Dalai Lama. However, Pelosis inclusion in the delegation brought reminders of her 2022 visit to Taiwan, the independently governed island that China claims as its territory, during her tenure as House Speaker.

This controversial visit sparked concerns within the Biden administration about further straining an already chilly relationship with Beijing. China responded sharply, imposing trade restrictions on Taiwan and conducting military exercises near the island.

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According to The New York Times report, the delegations trip to India coincides with deepening ties between Washington and New Delhi, partly driven by a perceived common threat posed by China. Jake Sullivan, President Bidens national security adviser, is currently in New Delhi, engaging in multiple rounds of discussions with Indian officials aimed at expanding defense and technology cooperation.

These extensive talks, taking place shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi secured a third term, underscore Washingtons prioritisation of its relationship with India. American officials increasingly view New Delhi as a strategic counterbalance to Beijing, added the report.

Tenzin Lekshay, a spokesman for the Central Tibetan Administration, the government in exile, said that Tibets situation should not be seen through the lens of increasing rivalry between the US and China, but as a reminder of how the Tibetan way of life is facing an existential threat as China assimilates the region.

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We do hope that leaders of the free world will stand for the Tibet cause, particularly stressing the Chinese leadership to reinstall the dialogue to resolve the Sino-Tibet conflict, The New York Times report quoted Lekshay as saying.

With inputs from agencies
Delhis Rouse Avenue court was hearing a bail plea filed by Kejriwal. During the hearing, the Enforcement Directorate made a number of allegations against the AAP leader and said that it had evidence that he demanded Rs 100 crore in kickbacks. read more

A Delhi Court on Wednesday extended Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals judicial custody till July 3.

Delhis Rouse Avenue court was hearing a bail plea filed by Kejriwal. During the hearing, the Enforcement Directorate made a number of allegations against the AAP leader and said that it had evidence that he demanded Rs 100 crore in kickbacks.

The probe agency also clarified that the bribe accusations were brought by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

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Kejriwal, who is currently in Tihar jail, was arrested by the ED in March over his alleged role in the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy case.

The matter boils down to his role, Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, who is representing the ED, said during the hearing. Kejriwal was present at the hearing via video conference.

Various chargesheets have been filed and in none of them, he was made and accused. Despite several people having been arrested in the earlier stages, nothing was about him, Kejriwals lawyer said.

Kejriwal was released from jail for 21 days on May 10 to campaign for the Lok Sabha elections. On June 2, the chief minister surrendered and went back to prison. His judicial custody was supposed to end today.

Meanwhile, another plea filed by Kejriwals lawyer, seeking directions to allow his wife Sunita Kejriwal to attend his medical examinations via videoconferencing, will be heard on June 22 (Saturday).
Union Health Minister JP Nadda reviewed the heatwave situation and preparedness of the Central government hospitals on Tuesday. He directed the officials to ensure that all hospitals are prepared for providing the best healthcare to those affected from heatwave read more

A man covers himself with a cloth to protect from heat on a hot summer day in New Delhi. Source: REUTERS

Extreme heatwaves in Delhi-NCR have claimed the lives of over 10 people in the last three days and at least 12 are on life support. With no respite in sight, Union Health Minister JP Nadda directed for special heatwave units to be started in the central government hospitals.

Nadda, on Tuesday, reviewed the heatwave situation and preparedness of the Central government hospitals.

He also directed the officials to ensure that all hospitals are prepared for providing the best healthcare to those affected from heatwave.

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Union Health Minister Shri @JPNadda reviewed the heatwave situation and preparedness of the central govt. hospitals, today.



He has directed the officials to ensure that all hospitals are prepared for providing the best healthcare to the affected.



He has also directed for  Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) June 19, 2024

Blistering heat has swept most parts of India. Amid this, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely to continue over several parts of North India on Wednesday and gradually abate thereafter due to an approaching western disturbance towards northwest India.

Heatwave deaths in Delhi-NCR

Five deaths due to suspected heat stroke have been reported in Delhis Ram Manohar Lohia, ANI said. Also, at least 12 people, mostly daily wage labourers are said to be in a critical condition, battling for their lives on ventilator support.

Dr Ajay Shukla, medical superintendent at Ram Manohar Lohia hospital in Delhi, informed that 22 people had been admitted after they suffered a heat stroke.

A total of 22 patients have been admitted to the hospital and five have lost their lives due to suspected heat stroke. Twelve patients are on ventilators and in critical situations. The majority of patients are labourers who work in extreme conditions, Dr Shukla said.

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#WATCH | Delhi: MS, RML Hospital, Dr Ajay Shukla says "A total of 22 patients have been admitted to the hospital and 5 have lost their lives due to suspected heatstroke. 12 patients are on ventilators and in critical situation. The majority of patients are labourers who work in pic.twitter.com/jKt5zVyukw  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

The doctor also warned that the mortality rate in heatstroke cases is quite high, about 60-70 per cent.

If the patient is brought late to the hospital, one organ after the other starts failing. There is a lack of awareness. A lot of these patients are migrant labourers. Also, the symptoms (of heatstroke) can be easily missed or mistaken for something else. Its only when patients faint that their relatives feel that hospitalisation is needed, Dr Shukla said.

Meanwhile, in the last 24 hours at least seven people have died in different parts of Noida without any visible signs of injury amid a heat wave, a PTI report said.

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Police on Tuesday noted that the cause of death is yet to be ascertained. On chances of heat waves causing these deaths, a police spokesperson said they are actively investigating these cases and have initiated necessary legal proceedings.

When will it rain in Delhi?

The IMD has predicted that monsoon is expected to hit the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on June 30.

In Delhi-NCR, the temperature is expected to be around 40 degrees Celcius. Monsoon is expected to hit Delhi-NCR around June 30. Even today, we can expect dust storms and light-intensity rainfall activity in Delhi, IMD scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar was quoted as saying by ANI.

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#WATCH | Delhi: On weather conditions, IMD scientist, Dr Naresh Kumar says, "We had issued a red alert for Punjab, Haryana, Delhi NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar yesterday, but today conditions have improved. There has been rainfall activity in Bihar. For Punjab, Haryana and Delhi NCR, pic.twitter.com/P6L8ppswe9  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

With inputs from agencies
Jaishankar represents Gujarat as a BJP MP in the Rajya Sabha since 2019. The minister, who is known for his sharp responses and persuasive speeches, has spent the last ten years at the forefront of PM Modis team directing Indias foreign policy read more

The External Affairs Minister will meet Sri Lankan leaders during his tour to discuss a variety of topics pertaining to the bilateral partnership between the two nations Image Courtesy ANI

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Wednesday that Union Minister S. Jaishankar will go to Sri Lanka on official business on June 20.

The External Affairs Minister will meet Sri Lankan leaders during his tour to discuss a variety of topics pertaining to the bilateral partnership between the two nations.

This will be EAMs first bilateral visit after the formation of a new Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the MEA said in an official statement.

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Jaishankars visit marks Indias continued commitment to Sri Lanka, being its closest maritime neighbour.

Reaffirming Indias Neighbourhood First Policy, the visit underlines Indias continued commitment to Sri Lanka as its closest maritime neighbour and time-tested friend. The visit will add momentum to connectivity projects and other mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors, the External Affairs Ministry said.

Resuming his duties in the Ministry of External Affairs in South Block last week, Jaishankar, a well-known BJP leader who guided Indias diplomatic course during Prime Minister Narendra Modis second term, assumed responsibility as External Affairs Minister once again in the new government.

On June 9, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Jaishankar, 69, was sworn in as a Union Cabinet Minister.

He represents Gujarat as a BJP MP in the Rajya Sabha since 2019. The minister, who is known for his sharp responses and persuasive speeches, has spent the last ten years at the forefront of PM Modis team directing Indias foreign policy.

Jaishankar was the nations Foreign Secretary from 2015 to 2018, before assuming the role of Foreign Minister in 2019.

Interestingly, he was also the first Foreign Secretary to become the Minister of External Affairs.
Police, during the investigation, found that a staff at Pune factory of the ice cream maker had suffered a finger injury in an accident and the finger found in the ice cream of the Mumbai doctor could belong to this employee read more

Summers and ice creams go hand in hand as many want to relish varieties of flavoured frozen dessert, but most people became apprehensive after a 26-year-old Mumbai doctor found a human finger in an ice cream cone his sister had ordered for him online.

Now, police, investing the case, suspect that the human finger found inside the ice cream cone could be of a staff working at the Pune factory of Yummo Ice Creams.

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Cops have found that a staff at the Pune factory of an ice cream maker had suffered a finger injury in an accident and the finger found in the ice cream of the Mumbai doctor could belong to this employee.

A report by NDTV quoted police sources as saying that during the investigation, it was found that the ice cream in which the piece of finger was found was packed on the day when the accident occurred.

What next?

The cops have samples for DNA test at the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and get confirmation on whether the finger belonged to the employee.

Whats the Mumbai ice cream case?

The Mumbai ice cream case which is being investigated by the police raised serious concerns over food safety standards. On June 12, Orlem Brandon Serrao, a 26-year-old doctor from Malad West in Mumbai, found a human finger in an ice cream cone which his sister had ordered online for him.

The doctor said he was appalled to find a piece of flesh, apparently a severed human thumb, in the frozen dessert. He soon lodged a complaint with the police.

After eating half of the ice cream, I felt a solid piece in my mouth. I thought it could be a nut or a chocolate piece and spat it out to check what it was, Dr Serrao said.

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I am a doctor, so I know how body parts look like. When I carefully examined it, I noticed the nails and fingerprint impressions under it. It resembled a thumb. I am traumatised, he added.

Based on his complaint, the police registered a case under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 272 (adulteration of food or drink intended for sale), 273 (sale of noxious food and drink) and 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others), against Yummo ice cream company officials.

Also, the piece of flesh, suspected to be a piece of human finger, was sent for forensic examination to ascertain whether it is a part of the human body, cops said.

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What did the ice cream company say?

Responding to the incident, Yummo Ice Creams said it had stopped production at the third-party facility.

We have stopped manufacturing at this third-party facility, isolated the said product at the facility and our warehouses, and are in the process of doing the same at the market level, a company spokesperson said.

Licence of manufacturer supplying ice cream to Yummo suspended

The Food Safety Standards of India (FSSAI) Western Region has suspended the licence of the manufacturer that supplies ice cream to Yummo.

The premises of the ice cream manufacturer have been inspected by a team of FSSAIs Western Region Office and its licence has been suspended, the food safety regulator has said.

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FSSAI further said the manufacturer who delivered the ice cream is based in Indapur, Pune, and has a central licence as well.

With inputs from agencies
With PM Modi inaugurating the Nalanda Universitys new campus, the modern varsity meets its ancient past. The ancient Nalanda University was the worlds first residential university, thriving over half a millennium before Oxford University could be founded read more

Named after the ancient seat of learning that drew scholars from across the globe about 1,600 years ago, the Nalanda University has got a new campus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on his first Bihar visit after his government was voted back to power for the third consecutive term, formally inaugurated the campus on Wednesday.

Earlier, PM Modi visited the ruins of ancient Nalanda university, which was declared a United Nations heritage site in 2016. The new campus was conceived as a joint collaboration between India and the 18 East Asia Summit (EAS) countries.

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The campus of the Nalanda University, which began its session in September 2014 the month it was inaugurated by former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, has 40 classrooms and student hostel for around 550 students among other facilities  much reduced compared to its ancient self.

The original Nalanda University

Buzzing with academic activity more than 500 years before the famed Oxford University was founded, Indias Nalanda University was already a renowned centre of learning. Established in 427 CE during the rule of Gupta dynasty ruler Kumargupta, Nalanda University housed a vast library of 9 million books and admitted 10,000 students from across the globe. It was the worlds first residential university.

Located near Bodhgaya in south Bihar in eastern India, Nalanda was hugely influenced by the ideas of Gautam Buddha who attained enlightenment in the region. The Nalanda Universitys red-brick ruins stand as a testament to its glorious past. The university thrived for over seven centuries until invading Khilji forces led by Bakhtiyar Khilji destroyed its campus and set fire to its library.

They say it took three months for all 9 million books to burn, six months for the red cinders to die and nine months for the smoke to blow away.

What the university taught

Nalandas academic programme was a blend of intellectual Buddhism and higher knowledge in various fields. Buddhism was primarily a system of philosophy, which attracted students and scholars from across the world. Students came to learn medicine, logic, mathematics, and Buddhist principles from some of the eras most esteemed scholars. The Gupta monarchs, considered devout Hindus, provided a liberal atmosphere embracing Buddhism and promoting diverse intellectual pursuits.

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What Nalanda University contributed to the world
The J&K Police have arrested Hakim Din of Bhandarah, Rajouri, who is suspected to have provided logistical support to terrorists who were involved in Reasi terror attack on June 9 read more

(File) Security men inspect a bus that fell into a deep gorge on Sunday after it was fired at by suspected militants in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir, on 10 June 2024. AP

A local has been arrested by the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday for his alleged involvement in the June 9 Reasi terror attack case.

Sources to News18 said, J&K police have arrested Hakim Din of Bhandarah, Rajouri, who is suspected to have provided logistical support to terrorists who were involved in the Shiv Kori incident.

A report by Hindustan Times quoted Reasi senior superintendent of police, Mohita Sharma, as saying that, One formally arrested in the Reasi terror attack. Hes not the mastermind but played an important role in the attack."

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This the first arrest in the Reasi terrorist attack case which comes around 10 days after the incident.

#WATCH | J&K: On the Reasi terror attack, SSP Reasi Mohita Sharma says, "A major breakthrough has been achieved in the case pertaining to the terrorist attack on the pilgrim bus which was coming from Shiv Khori on 9th June. In this, one terror associate, namely Hakam, age 45 pic.twitter.com/Yocc6sH9Sk  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

Reasi terrorist attack

As many as nine people, including seven from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi, were killed and 41 others were injured after a 53-seater bus carrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district came under terrorist attack in Teryath village in Pouni area on June 9.

The terrorists opened fire on the bus which veered off the road due to indiscriminate firing and fell into a gorge.

The J&K police last week released a sketch of a terrorist involved in the Reasi attack and announced Rs 20 lakh reward for information about him. A sketch of the terrorist has also been prepared based on descriptions provided by eyewitnesses and have been put up in major points of the city.

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On June 17, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) handed over the Reasi terror attack case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to review the security situation in J&K and preparations for the annual Amarnath Yatra.

Shah had directed the security forces and intelligence agencies to replicate the successes achieved in Kashmir valley against terrorism in the Jammu region.

With inputs from agencies
Canada has indeed become the Pakistan of the West. On Tuesday, the Canadian Parliament shattered any semblance of civilised existence by observing a moment of silence in memory of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed a year ago. Nijjar, the leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force, was shot outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023.

Rather than acknowledging Nijjar as a terrorist, Ottawa has damaged its relations with India by accusing the Indian government of assassinating a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil, without offering proof to support its claim. However, Canada has not only provided sanctuary to thousands of Khalistani terrorists but also given them roles in the government.

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Is harbouring terrorists not state-sponsored terrorism? How is this different from what Pakistan does? Canada has now officially forfeited its right to speak against terror. It has become a perpetrator itself.

Just days ago, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the first time since Trudeau publicly accused Indias government of involvement in the assassination of Canadian Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In a recent interview, Prime Minister Trudeau said that the countries need to work on as democracies. on some very serious issues around national security and keeping Canadians safe.

Who are the Canadians he is referring to? Khalistani terrorists? Instead of combating terror, he is providing a home to individuals who are entirely consumed by it. Why does the Prime Minister continue to ignore terrorists right under his nose? Because they vote for him?

Why Canada is now similar to Pakistan

Several militant groups have received support from Pakistan. Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), founded in the late 1980s, has carried out numerous attacks in India including the 2008 Mumbai attacks with connections to Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), another group operating in Jammu and Kashmir, has been implicated in several high-profile attacks in India such as the 2016 Pathankot attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack. The Haqqani Network, operating mainly in Afghanistan, has been involved in numerous attacks against NATO and Afghan forces and is believed to have received support from the ISI.

In a Congressional report on terrorism in October 2021, the US said that Pakistan is home to at least 12 groups designated as foreign terrorist organisations, including five of them being India-centric like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.

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LeT was officially labelled a foreign terrorist organisation (FTO) in 2001. The Congressional Research Service (CRS) attributed to LeT the 2008 Mumbai attacks, among other significant attacks. The CRS report mentioned that JeM, alongside LeT, was involved in the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament and other assaults.

The Harakat-ul Jihad Islami (HUJI) was established in 1980 in Afghanistan with the goal of fighting the Soviet forces. It was designated as an FTO in 2010. After 1989, HUJI redirected its activities towards India, though it continued to support the Afghan Taliban. The report indicated that HUJI operates in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, with the objective of integrating Kashmir into Pakistan. Harakat-ul-Mujahideen was designated as an FTO in 1997 and primarily operates from Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and certain Pakistani cities.

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The Hizb-ul Mujahideen, founded in 1989 and reportedly the militant arm of Pakistans largest Islamist political party, received its FTO designation in 2017. It is noted as one of the oldest and most significant militant organisations active in Jammu and Kashmir.

The CRS reported that according to the US State Departments Country Reports on Terrorism 2019, Pakistan had continued to provide a safe haven for certain regionally focused terrorist groups. It further stated that Pakistan had allowed groups targeting Afghanistan, as well as those targeting India, to operate from its territory.

Isnt Canada doing the same by providing safe haven to Khalistani terrorists.

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With so-called respect to Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the Canadian government has officially made him the Burhan Wani of a non-existent Khalistan.

Who was Burhan Wani?

Burhan Wani was a prominent militant commander of the Hizb-ul Mujahideen, had become widely known for his social media presence, where he posted pictures and videos calling for armed resistance against India. His ability to use social media effectively made him a symbolic figure for many young Kashmiris and he was often seen as the face of the new wave of militancy in the region.

Wanis death on July 8, 2016, in an encounter with Indian security forces sparked widespread protests and violence across Kashmir. The aftermath of his killing led to a prolonged period of unrest, with numerous clashes between protesters and security forces, resulting in significant casualties and injuries.

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For Pakistan, Wani is a martyr but for the rest of the world he is a terrorist. Canada would do well to introspect in which category it wants Nijjar to be.

Skewed national security

The national security dimension should not be biased in favour of Canada at the expense of India. In a bid to safeguard Prime Minister Trudeaus politically precarious position, he is fostering a fabricated sense of threat from Indian intelligence agencies, similar to Pakistans tactics when unidentified gunmen target terrorists.
The US National Security Advisors India visit, though a crucial step in the incremental progress on technological collaboration, was somewhat lukewarm read more

In a diplomatic voyage that resembled a ship lost in a tempest, US NSA Jake Sullivans visit to India marked the first major foreign engagement since Prime Minister Narendra Modis third term commenced. The visit, ostensibly a beacon for the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET), found itself overshadowed by mounting suspicions and strain that now cloud the bilateral relationship.

In the corridors of Indian power, there lurks a belief that American electoral machinations played a role in undermining the BJPs single-party dominance. The spectre of Khalistan separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, perceived as an American intelligence pawn, exacerbates this (dis)trust. The drama intensified when an Indian national, allegedly plotting against a Khalistani leader, was apprehended and extradited from Europe amidst Sullivans visit, deepening the fissures in high-level intelligence collaboration. What was once heralded as the pinnacle of bilateral achievement now stands eroded, with India lamenting the paucity and quality of intelligence shared by the US.

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Despite this backdrop, iCET stands as a critical waypoint in the labyrinthine journey of India-US cooperation. The agreement on quantum computing, marked by a 2023 Memorandum of Understanding between the US National Quantum Initiative Programme and Indias Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, promises to revolutionise the computing and encryption landscapes through joint research and scientist exchanges.

Telecommunications, particularly 5G and 6G, also form a keystone of this initiative. Major American tech giants, such as Qualcomm and Cisco, have been entrusted with significant roles by Indian telecom firms, despite the considerable financial implications.

In the defence realm, a notable milestone is the partnership surrounding the Light Combat Aircraft, Tejas. The 2024 accord to transfer General Electrics F414 engine technology for the LCA Mk2 variant, encompassing co-development and production under the Make in India initiative, aims to enhance the aircrafts capabilities. Nonetheless, the technology transfers sluggish pace and the complexity of assimilating the new technology pose formidable challenges for India.

Furthermore, certain co-development offers from the US, like the Stryker armoured fighting vehicles air defence system, face scepticism regarding their suitability for Indian operational theatres. The potential involvement of Canadian manufacturing components further complicates these decisions, given the current political climate.

The impending American elections inject an additional layer of uncertainty. The possibility of a non-returning Biden administration might see New Delhi hesitating to invest substantial political capital in this relationship. Sullivans visit, though a crucial step in the incremental progress of technological collaboration, was lukewarm, offsetting the warmth of Indian summers. The anticipated broad American outreach to India appears to have dwindled, supplanted by short-term tactical manoeuvres. The question now looming is whether the Biden administration has veered off course, potentially losing India in the process.

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The writer is a senior journalist with expertise in defence. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
New Delhi must not be complacent as Pakistan has made massive investments in terrorism and radicalisation for three decades read more

The recent terrorist attacks in Jammu & Kashmirs Pir Panjal valley has questioned official claims of terrorism heading towards a rapid decline in the Union Territory, particularly after the abrogation of Article 370.

Even before the abrogation, the authorities made claims that their counter-terrorism efforts had confined the terrorism to three districts of South Kashmir and that the Pir Panjal area, i.e., the Jammu region, had been rid of militancy a long time ago. Hence, post-Article 370 abrogation, the real test was in the Kashmir valley. No one thought of the Pir Panjal area.

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So, today, almost five years after August 5, 2019, in Kashmir, the spike in the brutal terror attacks in Pir Panjal, an area declared terrorism-free long ago, is more than shocking. Sounding an alarming note, the recent developments suggest the following:

First, contrary to official and media versions, the states success in crushing the Pakistan-sponsored terrorism is not good enough.

Second, in the Kashmir valley, though the big-ticket terror attacks and fidayeen missions are not visible, Islamist outfits like Jamaat-e-Islami are massively working on the ground on radicalisation, restructuring, and strengthening their terror and Islamist networks.

Third, the fact that the hard-core Pakistani terrorists infiltrate and strike in Pir Panjal (Jammu region) shows they have robust intelligence penetration and networks and a support base among the local population.

Trends in Kashmir valley

One needs to look at the sentiment in the Valley and the other developments to understand the trajectory of future trends.

The phase after August 5, 2019, has seen a massive boost in tourism in Kashmir. Every year, the tourist footfall breaks its previous records. The local economy and trade have boomed, resulting in a large inflow of capital and growth in the economic prosperity of Kashmir. Present-day Kashmir may have strong separatist and fundamentalist ideological fervour coupled with unprecedented economic prosperity on account of booming tourism and development projects. The combination of money and anti-India sentiments is a lethal combination.

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The separatist and extremist organisation, Jamaat-i-Islami, was officially banned in 2019, following which the NIA conducted several raids on their offices and the premises of its members and arrested several members of its first-rung leadership. However, all these actions have not made much dent in Jamaats popularity, penetration, hold, and activities on the ground.

After the ban, Jamaat changed tactics. Its secondary leadership is dispersed in rural areas. These leaders have stopped overtly displaying Islamic attire and mannerisms. Instead, they moved around as modern civilians, clean-shaven and wearing normal clothes. They are working among the students and youngsters, spreading their core message of Islamic Kashmir and carrying out their radicalisation agenda.

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Recently, at the Central University of Kashmir, a professor with a PhD, Rubani Bashir, was arrested on charges of recruiting youth as terrorists. The police recovered arms and ammunition from him. In my telephonic conversation with informed interlocutors in Srinagar, some of whom include his students, I learned that this is just the tip of the iceberg.

Several Bashirs and their allies are working across the length and breadth of Kashmir. Reportedly, one of his associates with a similar mindset teaches at a Pune-based university. The election of Engineer Rashid, a separatist accused of terror funding, from the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat speaks volumes about popular sentiment. Likewise, Waheed Parra, the youth leader of the PDP, facing terror funding charges, also got a massive vote support of 200,000.

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It also needs to be highlighted that the ordinary youth in Kashmir today look at the Kashmir situation through the pan-India Hindu-Muslim prism. Kashmiri youths alignment with the Indian hinterlands Islamist groups and goals is stronger now. Rapidly spreading PFIs Islamist narratives of making India an Islamic state by 2047 have started penetrating the crevices of Kashmiri minds as well.

In the Jammu region, several expert voices suggest that the Gujjar-Bakarwal community, which has traditionally supported Indian security forces, is going through alienation and resentment against the state authorities. They are agitated over the governments decision to include Pahari ethnic groups, Gadda-Brahmin, Koli, and Paddari tribes in the Schedules Tribes category by the Constitution (Jammu and Kashmir) Scheduled Tribes Order (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

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Reportedly, the alienation has led some of the disgruntled elements to provide support systems to the infiltrating terrorists. Gujjar-Bakarwals (GBs) are mostly nomadic. In winters, they are present in the 16 Corps, ie, the Jammu region, and in summers, they migrate with their animals to the 15 Xorps, ie, the Kashmir valley.

Such massive movements are quite unregulated and not tracked periodically. Though it is not confirmed, many veteran field commanders of the army have raised suspicions that these nomadic groups of GBs in some way facilitate the movement, shelter, communications, and intelligence work of local terrorists and foreign infiltrators.

In April 2024, as per my sources, some youth from the nomadic GBs reportedly chopped off a person because he clicked a picture of them smuggling bovine for slaughter. Such incidents demonstrate the increasing levels of radicalisation among the GBs, hitherto believed to be illiterate and highly moderate, and strongly indicate their elusive connections with the world of terrorism, particularly in the Jammu region.

Pakistan-based handlers have completely changed their strategy and tactics. They have dismissed the old OGWs, handlers, recruiters, and coordinators about whom the police had some clue, connection, or information. In the present situation, some key handlers sitting across the border are controlling the entire terror system through recruitment, movement, infiltration, execution of terror acts, and the movement of money and weapons.

They are using young boys and girls as couriers, entirely inconspicuous by their appearance and presence, leaving no window for any doubt or questioning by the police. Also, no formal and organised terror groups like Lashkar, Jaish, and Hizbul Mujahideen are at the forefront. There are no formal recruitments, with cadres announcing their joining on social media and large-scale funeral processions facilitating recruitments.

Additionally, the terrorists have gone radio silent. They are using new kinds of communication devices, such as ultrasets, which are immune to interception and de-encryption. It is a non-satellite phone working on ultra-high frequencies. Its circular probability error is 3.5 km, implying that its signals can be detected within this range. The pinpointed location cannot be detected. As per my interlocutors version, there is hardly any case in which the detection of ultrasets in any area has led to a successful encounter-contact with the terrorists.

Further, their encryption technology is highly sophisticated. Our security apparatus has not yet cracked it. The terrorists also use a blue-tooth-based application, viz, Bridge-ifi. It has a range of 300 metres, and generally, they use this app for local communication to relay messages. Besides, the OGWs also install modems in the mobile towers in a concealed manner. They receive the signals from across the border, which are relayed to terrorists.

When it comes to advanced drones, it needs to be highlighted that terrorists are using drones with precision drop systems. They drop within 10 metres of the target location. Our agencies have found it challenging to jam these drones, as they are pre-programmed and fly in autonomous mode. They are so designed that even when they are recovered, they hardly leave any material useful for digital forensics. It is extremely difficult to find incriminating evidence, such as the flying profile, details about its starting point, previous sorties, and test flights.

The other advanced features include higher elevation profiles, such as the ability to fly at an elevation of 1,500-2,000 metres with no sound or visual signature, rendering it almost impossible to hunt them down. Besides, our drone jamming and spoofing systems have not succeeded in most cases. Their backup endurance is very high. Generally, drones have a flight time of 50 minutes and a payload of five to six kilogrammes. However, contrary to this belief, in one case in Jammu, a drone was recovered, whose propellers were functioning for four hours after the recovery.

Hence, it can be reasonably concluded that the terror attacks are well-calibrated and strategic. They are not conducting big-ticket strikes to avoid crossing Indias tolerance threshold. However, they are active on the ground, building their robust base, intelligence penetration, and support structures. Such an infrastructure will come in handy when General Headquarters Rawalpindi wants massive and violent unrest combined with large-scale terrorist violence in Kashmir.

These new above-mentioned tactics have done major damage to the intelligence networks, assets, and systems created by the security forces in Kashmir over the last 20 years. In effect, the intelligence grid is in disarray, particularly in the Pir-Panjal region, enabling the adversary to infiltrate terrorists from Samba-Hiranagar to Poonch-Rajouri and strike at the time and place of their choice.

Policing needs major reforms

Amidst the rapidly changing tactics and strategies of terrorists, the human intelligence element in our counter-terrorism intelligence apparatus has taken the worst hit. Previously, between 2016 and 2019, the over-reliance on technological intelligence, resulting in successful encounters, eroded the human intelligence capabilities and traditional intelligence network crafted by the security forces in J&K over decades.

However, the worst has arrived after the declaration of J&K as UT. Mostly, young direct IPS recruits from the UT cadre have been posted as district police chiefs and in other critical counter-terrorism positions. These officers have about three-to-four years of experience in policing, and that too outside Kashmir; hence, they do not understand the complex dynamics of terrorism, radicalisation, society, and intelligence in Kashmir.

They lack ground connection, knowledge, and rootedness in the local cultural, social, political, and religious structures. In several cases, I was told that many of them make the locals wait for hours outside their office before meeting them. Such an attitude smacks of arrogance and is unsuitable for working in a conflict zone. Mostly, the local people from villages provide crucial intelligence inputs; hence, the police chiefs in the district must have a robust network among the locals. Typical bureaucratic behaviour and arrogance prevalent in other states may be extremely detrimental to J&K and hamper the flow of critical intelligence.

Previously, veteran counter-terrorism expert officers from the Jammu and Kashmir Police commanded the districts. They were the locals with a robust knowledge of regional dynamics and terrorism. They were from the state police services and hence brought the vast experience of having served in the field in the 2000s and 2010s. In those days, when security forces lacked robust technological intelligence capabilities, these officers mostly relied on human intelligence. As a part of that, they created excellent networks of assets that infiltrated and exfiltrated the terror groups.

The crucial human intelligence from someone infiltrated within the terrorist organisation was actionable and mostly led to successful encounters, with only a few exceptions, wiping out the entire leadership of dreaded groups like Jaish and Lashkar. These JKP officers were the only local connectors who facilitated the work of about 60 COs of the RR units of the Indian Army, mostly outsiders, CAPFs, and other agencies. Now, most of them have been sidelined. As a result, they are demoralised and have lost contact with their former assets and sources. The result of such a colossal fall in our human intelligence apparatus can be seen in the form of large-scale terror attacks and security forces operating almost cluelessly, particularly in the Jammu region.

Another negative effect of sidelining the old stalwarts is that the new appointees, due to their lack of experience and sufficient exposure to Kashmir dynamics, are not able to understand the mindset and the clandestine activities and networks of some of their lower-level subordinates in the police and state intelligence.

Also, a crucial factor that is currently damaging our counter-terrorism capabilities is the lack of coordination between the various security and intelligence agencies. In J&K, the key to success in counter-terrorism is robust coordination and cooperation between the JKP, Indian Army, CAPFs, and an array of intelligence agencies working in the state. The last 30 years of counter-terrorism efforts have resulted in an excellent coordination mechanism and unwritten SOPs for conducting joint operations between various security agencies. Hence, it must be ensured that ad-hoc experiments are not initiated to destroy decades of hard work.

Finally, it needs to be realised that in J&K, the top priorities of policing are counter-terrorism and law and order. Hence, a highly bureaucratic style of functioning in matters of operational and intelligence requirements of funds, etc, is not a sane idea. Also, an overly centralised approach to controlling and managing the assets and informers of junior and mid-ranking officers can be detrimental, leading to delays and the exposure of sources. Also, the senior leadership needs to give enough space to its junior and district-level officers to recruit and run sources and double agents per their requirements. Notably, only such double agents placed deep within the terror group or Pakistans intelligence circuit can provide actionable input. Sometimes, they cross you and provide low-grade intelligence. In several incidents, for example, they offered input about some unimportant terrorists infiltrating the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) and secured a safe passage for more hardened and trained terrorist commanders. These are the intelligence games challenges, hazards, and undesired risks.

To conclude, New Delhi must not be complacent with the current phase of peace. Pakistan has made massive investments in terrorism and radicalisation for three decades. To change things on the ground, a long-term plan based on an insightful strategic vision is needed. Hence, first and foremost, the Government of India must come out with a 25-year roadmap and vision document to dismantle the Islamist and separatist structures in Kashmir. They must rope in experts from diverse areas such as intelligence, SFs, police, sociology, psychology, religious organisations, civil society, and the media. Additionally, Delhi should distance itself from appeasement policies to buy loyalties. Tourism, development, and economic growth should be offered as incentives and returns for nationalism, secularism, and rationalism.

We need to realise that the final solution to Kashmirs terrorism problem lies beyond the LoC and IB. We must make such terroir activities extremely costly for Islamabad through high-scale sub-conventional and conventional kinetic measures.

The author is the founder and CEO of Usanas Foundation, a foreign policy and national security think tank. A Cornell University grad in public affairs, and the author of Radicalisation in India: An Exploration. His latest book Terror Financing in Kashmir has been published by Routledge in December 2023. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
The validity of the claim that international media bias colours the reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian war is reinforced through the examination of language use, context omission, and the quantity of coverage read more

the pursuit of objectivity in reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is as crucial as it is challenging. Image: AP File Photo

As daylight breaks over the scarred landscape, the air trembles with the echoes of last nights turmoil. The sun, a silent witness, rises over a tableau of destruction a neighbourhood now rubble and ash. In this moment of calm after the storm, a single image pierces the veil of statistics and reports, an image that will soon travel beyond these borders, across oceans, and into the hearts and minds of millions.

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In the frame stands a child, no older than eight, clutching a tattered doll a stark contrast to the devastation that surrounds her. Her eyes, wide and unblinking, seem to capture the entirety of the conflict in one haunting gaze. This photograph, this frozen sliver of time, is about to become the epicentre of a global reaction, as it is shared and reshaped within the narrative of the Israeli-Palestinian War.

The main players in this unfolding drama are manifold. There is the photographer, a local journalist who has witnessed the cyclical violence that marks this land. There are international media outlets, ever-thirsty for compelling visuals to bolster their news cycles. And there are the activists, human rights advocates, and policymakers, each interpreting the image through their own lens of agendas and aspirations.

The challenge, as always, lies in discerning the truth amidst the fray. How can one image encapsulate the complex tapestry of historical grievances, political manoeuvring, and human suffering that defines this war? The problem is multi-layered, as the photograph becomes a tool, a weapon, and a plea all at once.

The approach to understanding this image and, by extension, the role of imagery in the conflict requires a meticulous deconstruction of its elements. The photographers intent, the context of the moment captured, and the subsequent path of dissemination, all these factors unite to inform the narrative that emerges. The image travels from the photographers lens to the world stage, where it is interpreted and re-interpreted, each iteration compounding its emotional resonance.

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The results are powerful and immediate. Public outcry swells, humanitarian aid is mobilised, and on the global political stage, leaders are pressed to respond. Data shows spikes in social media engagement, shifts in public opinion, and even policy changes all stemming from the dissemination of a single, compelling image.

Reflecting on this case, one cannot help but ponder the implications. What are the ethical considerations of using such images? Do they inspire empathy and action, or do they commodify suffering? Its a delicate balance between raising awareness and respecting the dignity of those caught in the conflict.

Visual aids, like the photograph itself, serve to bring these questions into sharper focus. They act as a bridge between abstract statistics and the visceral reality of those living in the war. Through them, we see not just the physical destruction, but also the resilience and humanity of those who endure.

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This instance connects back to the larger narrative of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, a narrative where imagery is a permanent tool in shaping perceptions. The power of a single photograph or video clip can transcend borders, languages, and cultures, becoming a touchstone for solidarity or a beacon for action.

I am no stranger to the complexities of war and the impact of imagery. Ive seen the power such images wield. But as we navigate the narratives, we must always strive to look beyond the frame, to the stories untold, and the voices unheard. Only then can we begin to grasp the full scope of the Israeli-Palestinian War and the images that define it.

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Israel-Palestine War - Give Peace a Chance Paperback  May 26, 2024,

International Media Bias

For decades, the world has witnessed the Israeli-Palestinian conflict unfold across the pages of newspapers and screens of televisions, with each side accusing the other of distortion and manipulation. Behind these claims lies a more pervasive and subtle influencer: international media bias. The very entities tasked with delivering news have often been accused of colouring the facts, shaping public perception, and altering the course of political discourse. This critical investigation peels back the layers of these accusations, examining the intricacies and implications of media bias in reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The central assertion here is that international media has, at times, exhibited bias in its coverage of the Israeli-Palestinian war, which has influenced public opinion and policy worldwide. To substantiate this claim, we must first consider the primary evidence: The patterns of coverage that suggest a tilt in perspective.

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A study conducted by the Media Research Centre analysed hundreds of articles and broadcasts, revealing a tendency to frame Israeli military actions as aggressive and to describe Palestinian casualties in more personal terms. For example, descriptions of Israeli forces often included words like occupy or invade, while Palestinian groups were more frequently referred to as militants or fighters, rather than terrorists.

The language used in media reports is not merely a choice of synonyms; it shapes the narrative and, by extension, the audiences understanding of the events. The use of emotionally charged words can elicit sympathy or condemnation, often blurring the lines between reporting and advocacy.

However, it would be intellectually dishonest not to acknowledge the counter-evidence. Proponents of the medias approach argue that the coverage is a reflection of the reality on the ground. They point to the asymmetry of power between the two sides and suggest that the media is merely highlighting the plight of the less powerful. Furthermore, they cite instances where Israeli narratives have been supported by major news outlets, especially when reporting on rocket attacks and terrorism concerns.

In response to these counter-arguments, one must consider the journalistic responsibility to provide context. While its true that highlighting human suffering is crucial, so is presenting the complexity of the conflict, including the history, the politics, and the cycles of violence that perpetuate it. By failing to provide this balance, the media risks perpetuating a one-sided view.

Additional supporting evidence can be found in the disparity of airtime and column inches given to each sides grievances and narratives. A content analysis of network news over a six-month period showed a significant discrepancy in the coverage of Palestinian and Israeli-led violence. This inconsistency suggests an underlying bias that favours one narrative over the other.

As we draw conclusions, its clear that while instances of bias in media reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict exist, the issue is complex. The medias role in shaping public perception and policy cannot be understated. It holds the power to influence international relations, humanitarian aid, and the very fabric of societies.

In conclusion, the validity of the claim that international media bias colours the reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian war is reinforced through the examination of language use, context omission, and the quantity of coverage. The media, as the conveyor of information, has a profound duty to deliver unbiased news. Yet, as weve seen, this ideal is not always achieved.

In the end, the pursuit of objectivity in reporting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is as crucial as it is challenging. It demands of us a commitment to scrutinise every story, to question every headline, and to recognise that in the war of narratives, the pen can be as mighty as the sword.

The article is an extract from Dr Joseph K Thomas book, Israel-Palestine War: Give Peace a Chance, which offers a comprehensive analysis of one of the most complex and the oldest conflicts still affecting the world. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
Ferrari plans to unveil its electric car in late 2025. The company is gearing up for this launch by establishing a new production facility in Maranello, Italy, which will manufacture electric motors, battery packs, and power inverters read more

Ferrari is r is strategically positioning itself to capture a substantial share of the high-performance electric supercar market, forecasting that 60 per CENT OFF of its offerings will be a mix of fully electric and hybrid cars by 2026. Representative Image

Ferrari, renowned for its powerful petrol engines, is set to make a significant shift in its product lineup with the introduction of its first fully electric vehicle (EV).

The luxury automakers inaugural EV is anticipated to cost at least 500,000 euros ($535,000), according to a report by Reuters, which quoted sources close to the matter. The strategic move reflects Ferraris confidence that affluent customers will embrace the new model, even as mass-market competitors reduce EV prices due to declining demand.

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Ferrari plans to unveil its electric car in late 2025. The company is gearing up for this launch by establishing a new production facility in Maranello, Italy, which will manufacture electric motors, battery packs, and power inverters.

The new plant, set to open in June, aims to boost the companys production capacity by up to a third, eventually enabling Ferrari to produce around 20,000 vehicles annually. This is a significant increase from the fewer than 14,000 cars Ferrari delivered last year.

Top dollar for a unique EV experience

CEO Benedetto Vigna has assured that the new EV will provide drivers with a unique experience, and will be similar to Ferraris traditional combustion engine-powered cars.

The carmaker is strategically positioning itself to capture a substantial share of the high-performance electric supercar market, forecasting that 60 per CENT OFF of its offerings will be a mix of fully electric and hybrid cars by 2026.

The price of Ferraris EV quoted here excludes additional features and customisations which can typically add 15-20 per cent or sometimes even more, based on the rarity of the options chosen by a customer, is considerably higher than the average sale price of a Ferrari, which was around 350,000 euros including extras in the first quarter of this year.

This price point also surpasses many rival luxury EVs. Porsches electric Taycan, for example, starts at about 100,000 euros.

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Balancing exclusivity and production increase

Ferraris brand cachet relies heavily on its exclusivity and high prices. Any increase in production carries the risk of diluting this exclusivity. However, Ferrari has successfully expanded beyond its traditional market with models like the Purosangue SUV, launched in 2022, demonstrating its ability to cater to increasing demand without compromising its brand essence.

There is an increasing demand out there for Ferraris, and they have room to meet part of it without compromising exclusivity, said Fabio Caldato, a portfolio manager at AcomeA SGR. He highlighted that waiting lists for some models can extend up to two years, further enhancing the brands status symbol. This demand is bolstered by a growing number of wealthy customers in emerging markets like India and the Middle East.

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Future developments and the competitive landscape

The new Maranello factory will include an additional vehicle assembly line and will produce petrol, hybrid, and electric cars, along with components for these vehicles. The plant is expected to be fully operational within three to four months.

Ferrari is also developing a second EV model, though it is still in the early stages. This indicates that Ferrari might not increase its overall production to 20,000 vehicles per year in the short term. The new facility will ensure Ferrari maintains flexibility and technical capacity to meet future needs, according to CEO Vigna.

Rival luxury automaker Lamborghini plans to introduce its first EV in 2028. Lamborghinis CEO Stephan Winkelmann emphasized the importance of developing the right product over being the first to market.

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Ferraris new EV, even by Ferraris ludicrous standards, is going to be a niche model  one that many want, but only a few are able to buy, even if they have the money, burning a hole through their pockets.

Analysts believe that it will account for just over 10 per cent of its annual sales, considering its high price tag, and the slowdown in EVs, especially luxury EVs. Having said that the price tag will help preserve Ferraris profit margins amidst the costly development of new electric technology and having to depend more and more on parts sourced from other carmakers.

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Ferraris venture into the electric vehicle market marks a significant milestone in its illustrious history. By launching a high-priced, high-performance EV, Ferrari aims to retain its brand exclusivity while tapping into the growing market for luxury electric cars.
For the longest time, analysts at Wall Street thought that it would be Apple to breach the $5 trillion mark, just as it did with the $3 trillion mark. However, now, many analysts believe NVIDIA will be the first to breach the $5 trillion and $10 trillion mark read more

NVIDIA, the semiconductor giant based in Santa Clara, California, has experienced an extraordinary surge in its stock value, rising more than 200 per cent over the past year. This remarkable growth has led one of its most optimistic analysts to project that the company could reach a market value of nearly $5 trillion in the coming year.

Rosenblatt Securities analyst Hans Mosesmann recently increased his price target for NVIDIA to a Wall Street high of $200 from $140. This adjustment comes on the heels of NVIDIAs recent 10-for-1 stock split on June 10. Following this announcement, NVIDIAs stock rose by as much as 2.7 per cent, hitting new intraday highs.

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Experts are bullish

Mosesmann has been bullish on NVIDIA since he began covering the stock in 2017, consistently maintaining a buy rating. While he acknowledges the strength of NVIDIAs hardware, he emphasizes that the real narrative lies in the software that complements all the hardware goodness. He predicts that the software aspect will play an increasingly significant role in NVIDIA overall sales mix over the next decade, contributing to a sustained increase in valuation.

NVIDIAs stock enjoys widespread support among analysts, with 64 buy ratings, seven holds, and just one sell rating, according to Bloomberg. As of Mondays close, NVIDIAs shares had risen 165 per cent in 2024, adding over $2 trillion to its market capitalization. This meteoric rise puts NVIDIA in a position to potentially surpass Microsoft and Apple as the worlds most valuable company.

A $10 trillion valuation soon?

Some analysts believe NVIDIA is on track to become the first $10 trillion company. Writing for Forbes, Beth Kindig, CEO and Lead Tech Analyst for the I/O Fund asserts that NVIDIA could reach this milestone by 2030 or sooner. She attributes this potential to NVIDIAs rapid product development, the strength of its CUDA software platform, and its expansion beyond GPUs into networking and software platforms.

To grasp why NVIDIAs stock has surged so dramatically, its essential to examine its financial performance over the past few years. In fiscal 2021, which ended in January 2021, NVIDIAs revenue was $16.7 billion, with a non-GAAP net income of $6.27 billion.

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By fiscal 2024, which ended in January this year, NVIDIAs revenue had soared to $60.9 billion, and its non-GAAP net income had increased to $32.3 billion. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 54 per cent for revenue and nearly 73 per cent for earnings.

Massive demand not dying anytime soon

The massive demand for NVIDIAs AI chips has been central to this phenomenal growth. In fiscal 2024, NVIDIA generated $47.5 billion of its $60.9 billion revenue from the data centre segment. In the first quarter of fiscal 2025, which ended on April 28, 2024, NVIDIAs data centre revenue skyrocketed 427 per cent year-on-year to a record $22.6 billion. This means Nvidia generated almost half of its fiscal 2024 data centre revenue in just one quarter of the new fiscal year.

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NVIDIAs robust data centre growth is expected to continue. The companys management highlights the strong demand for its upcoming Blackwell-based AI chips, which could lead to supply challenges into 2025. Additionally, NVIDIA plans to maintain its competitive edge with the announcement of the Rubin platform for 2026, set to succeed the Blackwell architecture.

Although NVIDIA has not provided many details about Rubin, it is anticipated that the chips based on this platform will be faster than the Blackwell processors, likely utilizing an advanced 3-nanometer (nm) process. The Blackwell chips, manufactured on a 4 nm process, already offer significant improvements in computing power and efficiency over the previous-generation Hopper architecture.

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Analysts are highly optimistic about NVIDIAs future, particularly regarding its data centre growth. They expect this segment to continue delivering exceptional revenue in the coming years. According to projections, NVIDIAs revenue could exceed $182 billion by fiscal 2027.
China has systematically changed the names of hundreds of villages and towns with religious, historical, or cultural meaning for Uyghur to names that resonate with the ideology of the Chinese Communist Party, according to a report read more

Two women pass through a secure entrance to a bazaar in Xinjiang in 2019. Life for Uyghur Muslims in the region is strictly controlled, with increasing surveillance and militarisation. AFP File

China has systematically changed the names of hundreds of villages and towns with religious, historical, or cultural meaning for Uyghur to names that resonate with the ideology of the Chinese Communist Party, according to a report.

According to The Guardian report_,_ a research released by Human Rights Watch and Norway-based Uyghur Hjelp on Wednesday documents around 630 communities whose names have been changed by the Chinese government, mostly during the height of a crackdown on Uyghurs that several governments and human rights bodies have called a genocide.

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Between 2009 and 2023, thousands of name changes took place, with the new names often devoid of any significant meaning beyond political conformity, added the report.

Majority of names changed from 2017 to 2019

The research conducted by the two organisations reveals that the majority of these changes took place from 2017 to 2019 and aimed at three main categories. References to religion or Uyghur cultural practices were systematically erased, such as the removal of terms like hoja (a title for a Sufi religious teacher) from at least 25 village names, haniqa (a type of Sufi religious building) from 10 village names, and mazar (meaning shrine) from at least 41 village names.

The authorities also changed names that referenced Uyghur kingdoms, republics or leaders from before 1949 when the Peoples Republic of China was founded. The report said there were no longer any villages in Xinjiang with the word xelpe or khalifa (ruler), or meschit (mosque) in their names, added The Guardian report.

The Uyghurs, a Turkic ethnic group primarily located in Xinjiang, have historically had a contentious relationship with Beijing, with accusations from the government that many seek independence from Chinese rule.

New names in Mandarin

According to the report, new village names are now predominantly in Mandarin Chinese and convey a positive sentiment, which aligns with the Chinese governments desire for Uyghurs to embrace and express loyalty under Chinese leadership.

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For instance, in 2018, Aq Meschit (White Mosque) village in Akto County was renamed Unity village. Similarly, in 2022, the village in Karakax County originally named after the Uyghur traditional instrument Dutar was renamed Red Flag village, added the report.

This is part of the broader efforts by the Chinese government to conflate Islam with terrorism, The Guardian quoted Elaine Pearson, the director of Human Rights Watchs Asia division, as saying. They see anything Islamic or Arabic sounding as threatening, so they renamed these things to be more in mind with [Chinese Communist party] ideology.

Weve seen this also in the way mosques have been demolished, changed, altered. Weve seen many different examples in the way the Chinese government uses this to violate aspects of free expression and cultural identity and religious freedom, added Pearson.

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The practice of renaming locations  like many of the policies imposed in Xinjiang  was first done in Tibet. In 2023 the Chinese government began referring to Tibet as Xizang on official documents. Since 2017 it has also issued official Chinese names for locations in Arunachal Pradesh, the disputed Himalayan region where China claims territory.

In Tibet and Xinjiang the increasingly militarised and surveilled environment makes it extremely difficult for information to come out about human rights abuses, and the Chinese government rarely responds to requests for information.

According to Al Jazeera, Uyghur Hjelp interviewed 11 Uighurs who lived in villages whose names had been changed, and found that the experience had had a deep effect on them.

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One villager told the group she faced difficulties going home after she was released from a re-education camp because the village name she knew was no longer included in the ticketing system. Another villager told Uyghur Hjelp that he had written a poem and commissioned a song as a memorial to the now lost locations where he had once lived, added the report.

With inputs from agencies
Based on pictures provided by the fishing crews, Taiwanese military specialists surmised that the submarine was a Type 094. According to them, the submarine might have surfaced for standard maintenance, a technical issue, modifications to the undersea terrain, or an intentional display of force read more

Based on pictures provided by the fishing crews, Taiwanese military specialists surmised that the submarine was a Type 094

After fishermen saw a PLA Navy nuclear-powered submarine surface unexpectedly early on Tuesday, Taiwan said it closely monitored the submarines journey through the narrow Taiwan Strait.

According to a report by South China Morning Post, the submarine was spotted at around five in the morning, roughly 46 kilometers (25 nautical miles) from Taiwan-controlled Quemoy Island, commonly known as Kinmen, and just west of the median line that divides the island and the mainland. About 200 kilometers (120 miles) separated the sighting from Taiwans west coast.

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Subsequently, a second PLA cruiser was observed guiding the submarine in the direction of the mainland. The submarine did not submerge again, the reports quoted fishermen as saying.

The military had a comprehensive understanding of the situation through relevant intelligence and reconnaissance methods, Taiwanese Defence Minister Wellington Koo was quoted as saying by the media.

Based on pictures provided by the fishing crews, Taiwanese military specialists surmised that the submarine was a Type 094. According to them, the submarine might have surfaced for standard maintenance, a technical issue, modifications to the undersea terrain, or an intentional display of force.

Concerns were expressed in Taiwan over the unusual appearance of a nuclear-powered submarine, which is capable of extended underwater operations. It was unclear from the outset if this was really a normal passage or another example of Beijing threatening the self-governing island.

Legislators in Taiwan voiced concerns about the possibility that this was an attempt by the Peoples Liberation Army to put more military pressure on the island nation, especially in light of the May war games that acted as a mock blockade.

Three days had passed since Taiwans new leader, William Lai Ching-te, took office and said that Taiwan and the mainland are not subordinate to each other before the PLA drills began. Beijing harshly denounced Lai, the leader of the Democratic Progressive Party, which supports independence, calling him a obstinate separatist whose leadership could spark a conflict.

Taiwan is considered to be a part of Beijings territory, which it may use force to reunite. Similar to the majority of nations, the US does not recognize Taiwan as an independent state, but it does oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo and is nonetheless committed to arming Taipei.

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Additionally, military specialists stated that surfacing in the area might lessen the likelihood that a vessel of that type would become entangled in fishing nets, as this was the busiest time of year for squid fishing.

In 2020 and 2021, Type 094 submarines were also seen coming to the surface in the Taiwan Strait.

The 7,000-kilometer-range JL-2 ballistic missiles carried by Jin-class submarines can reach the continental United States. The most recent submarine model, the Type 094A, went into service in April and is said to be equipped with the even more powerful JL-3 ballistic missiles, which have a more than 10,000-kilometer range.

The PLA submarine force is celebrating its 70th anniversary this Wednesday.
Li Qiang was given an official welcoming ceremony at Malaysias government capital of Putrajaya before private talks with Anwar. While trade is expected to dominate, Malaysias Foreign Minister Mohamad Hassan has said the prickly issue of territorial claims in the South China Sea was also likely to be raised read more

Chinese Premier Li Qiang is set to talk Wednesday with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, with their countries due to ink cooperation pacts on digital economy and green development as they celebrate a half-century of diplomatic relations.

Li, the first Chinese premier to visit Malaysia since 2015, flew in late Tuesday from Australia to a red carpet welcome. Upon his arrival, Li said the two nations 50-year anniversary was a new starting point to deepen links and increase exchanges.

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China is advancing Chinese modernization on all fronts through high-quality development. Malaysia, on its part, is promoting national development under the vision of Malaysia MADANI. China is ready to work with Malaysia, Li said in a statement published by the national Bernama news agency.

Li, Chinas No. 2 leader after President Xi Jinping, last week also became the first Chinese premier to visit New Zealand and then Australia in seven years.

Li was given an official welcoming ceremony at Malaysias government capital of Putrajaya before private talks with Anwar. While trade is expected to dominate, Malaysias Foreign Minister Mohamad Hassan has said the prickly issue of territorial claims in the South China Sea was also likely to be raised.

Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Taiwan all dispute Beijings claims to almost the entire South China Sea. But unlike the publicized clashes between the Philippines and China, Malaysias government prefers the diplomatic channel and rarely criticizes Beijing even though Chinese coast guard ships have sailed near Malaysias waters. This is partly to protect economic ties, as China is Malaysias top trading partner.

That is why we need to further build on this good cooperation we have established since 1974. The good ties we have enjoyed since will allow us to manage and resolve any issue amicably, Mohamad Hassan was quoted as saying by The Star newspaper ahead of Lis visit.

Li and Anwar will also witness the signing of a new five-year deal for economic and trade cooperation.

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Trade Minister Zafrul Aziz has said it would strengthen links between industries in priority sectors like high-level manufacturing and the digital economy. Zafrul said government-to-government pacts were expected to be signed including investment cooperation in the digital economy and green development.

Trade with China  Malaysias No. 1 trading partner since 2009  made up 17 per cent of Malaysias global trade, valued at $98.8 billion last year, Zafrul was quoted as saying by Bernama last week.

Anwar, who visited China twice last year, has sought to move closer to Beijing even while engaging the U.S. as a key ally. While speaking at a forum in Tokyo in May, Anwar stressed that Beijing is too close, too important and too strategic to ignore.

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Ahead of Lis visit, Anwar told Chinese media that Malaysia planned to join the BRICS bloc of developing economies but didnt give details. The plan was confirmed by Zafrul and Mohamad Hassan on Monday. The blocs core members are Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, who to seek a fairer world order currently dominated by Western nations. It expanded with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates invited to become members this year. Some 40 countries have also expressed interest.

Li is also scheduled to have an audience with King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar. Malaysias foreign ministry said Li and Anwar will also attend a groundbreaking ceremony at a construction site for the East Coast Rail Link, which connects Malaysias west coast to eastern rural states and is a key part of Chinas Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.

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The project was suspended in 2018 after Malaysias long-ruling coalition was toppled in a historic general election over a massive corruption scandal. It was subsequently revived after the Chinese contractor agreed to cut the construction cost by one-third, and is now due to be completed by end-2026.

The two leaders will also attend a dinner to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Both leaders will also meet the business community at a luncheon before Li heads home Thursday.
The lawsuit filed this month, with backing from several dozen residents, accuses municipal authorities of not doing enough to address disturbances to public order, including loud noise and excessive drunkenness read more

Tourists walk along the Szewska street in Krakow during sunset on June 13, 2024. Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historical landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Poland's second city to court. AFP

Late evening, downtown Krakow goes from historic landmark to hub for stag nights, pub crawls and wild parties. Now, fed up with the ruckus, disgruntled locals are taking Polands second city to court.

The lawsuit filed this month, with backing from several dozen residents, accuses municipal authorities of not doing enough to address disturbances to public order, including loud noise and excessive drunkenness.

Non-compliance with the law has become a symbol of tourism in Krakow, Ryszard Rydiger, the lawyer behind the initiative, told AFP.

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He likened the situation to something seen nowhere else in Europe and said tourists were behaving like Tarzan from the Jungle without consequence.

This is not the first time that Krakow  visited by a whopping 9.4 million tourists in 2023, according to city estimates  has grappled with challenges posed by its more unruly visitors.

Last year, there were 6,800 police interventions in the city centre, many of them for drinking alcohol and destroying public property. Two-thirds resulted in fines, according to municipal police spokesman Marek Aniol.

Heart of darkness

While the lawsuit alleges that public disturbance issues are endemic to the entire Old Town, residents name Szewska Street as the problems epicentre.

Every day of the week, until six in the morning, Szewska becomes a place of noisy gatherings, reads the suit.

The crowd, without any restrictions or effective response from city authorities, sings shouts, fights, vomits The noise emitted by the drunken rabble exceeds the standards permitted by law.

The initiative was a good move, according to one resident, club promoter Jan, who called Szewska the heart of darkness.

The city should intervene in some way, the 23-year-old told AFP.

Noise and mess aside, Jan said that competition among clubs for higher numbers of late-night visitors also resulted in street fights.

He recounted the story of a friend who worked as a promoter on Szewska but had to quit due to the heavy trauma of violence from rivals.

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Even beyond the dead centre, late-night debauchery can pose problems for locals.

You cant walk peacefully in the evening, or at night, said Weronika, a 25-year-old doctor.

The peace is very disturbed.

City of Polish kings

Krakow has taken steps to address the issue.

Mayor Aleksander Miszalski announced this week the appointment of a night official, as well as plans for a committee that would research the situation and offer solutions.

Last July, the city became Polands first to ban alcohol sales from midnight until 5:30 am, a move supported by more than half of residents.

Police said that in the first six months, interventions were down by half and fewer intoxicated people landed in sobering-up centres.

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For the past three years, Krakow has also employed City Helpers during the high season  night-time volunteers tasked with providing information to tourists and calling police if need be.

The municipality has also released numerous advertising campaigns geared towards bringing out-of-towners into line and reducing public disturbances.

Of course we need tourists, said Jan. Its just that there needs to be appropriate legislation so that we have the tourists, but without the noise, mess and crap.

What began as a public safety operation in 2021 later evolved into a targeted campaign against Britons, who are known for indulging in stag nights in Krakow.

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While initial posters around the city urged both residents and visitors to respect others space, be on good behaviour and keep belongings safe, the latest campaign was much more blunt.

You are in the city of Polish kings, the posters read. This deserves respect.

Rydiger said these actions go in the right direction but are completely initial in terms of addressing the problem.

For years, the tourism policy has been come, come, come, but it has not been about setting clear boundaries on what can and cannot be done, he said.
The meeting between the Dalai Lama and Republican Rep. Michael McCaul-led delegation reportedly focused on the Resolve Tibet Act, recently passed by the US Congress, aimed at encouraging dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials read more

In a heavily worded message to China from across the border, former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Wednesday said that change is on the way after she met the Dalai Lama in Himachal Pradeshs Dharamshala.

His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the President of China, youll be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything, Pelosi said following her meeting with the exiled spiritual leader as part of a high-level US delegation visit to the town.

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She added, Dalai Lama would not approve of my saying that when I criticize the Chinese government, he says, lets pray for Nancy to rid her of her negative attitudes. I hope he will indulge me today to say that change is on the way.

#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh: Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says "...His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the President of China, you'll be gone pic.twitter.com/zf4GP5W4g6  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

The visit comes as the US and China have increased talks in recent months, in a bid to normalize strained ties. But news of the visit and the subject of the bill triggered swift backlash from China.

After their arrival on Tuesday, the delegation met officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile, which wants more autonomy for Tibet.

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Resolve Tibet Act

The meeting between the Dalai Lama and Republican Rep. Michael McCaul-led delegation reportedly focused on the Resolve Tibet Act, recently passed by the US Congress, aimed at encouraging dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials that could result in a peaceful resolution to the dispute between Tibet and Beijing. The bill will now go to the White House for President Joe Bidens endorsement.

The former US House Speaker said, You heard our colleagues talk about this legislation passed last week. We had been fighting this for a long time and in the spirituality of His Holiness, with manoeuvring inside the Congress, we made progress. But its different now with the passage of this bill (Resolve Tibet Act) because this bill is a message to the Chinese Government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet.

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#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh: During the public felicitation programme at Tsuglagkhang Complex in Dharamshala, Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says "...You heard our colleagues talk about this legislation that was passed last week. We had been fighting this for a long time and pic.twitter.com/KlnbMTa1vU  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

Pelosi also said that during one of her visits to Tibet, she found that the Chinese government is trying to erase the culture of the region by reducing the use of the language.

We saw the room where His Holiness grew up They are trying to erase the culture by reducing the use of the language. They are trying something that we cannot let them get away with, she said.

Visit irks China

Meanwhile, Beijing, who has repeatedly warned Washington not to interfere with Tibetan affairs, on Tuesday warned of resolute measures if the US signs the Resolve Tibet Act into law.

Its known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a pure religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian said.

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He added, We are gravely concerned over the relevant reports and urge the US side to fully recognize the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honor the commitments the US has made to China on issues related to Xizang, have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world.

With inputs from agencies
The US has historically defended the Tibetan peoples freedom to exercise their religion and culture, and it has charged China with violating such rights in the far-off Himalayan territory that shares a border with India read more

As part of a bipartisan team of US politicians visiting India, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi met the Dalai Lama on Wednesday. A few hours later, she unleashed a fierce criticism of China and slammed Chinese President Xi Jinping.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama will live a long time and his legacy will live forever, but you, the President, will be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything. The Dalai Lama would not approve my saying this that I am criticising the Chinese government. He would say, Lets pray for Nancy to rid her of negative attitudes. But I hope he will indulge me today in saying change is on the way. As our colleagues have said, hope brings some faith and the faith of the Tibetan people, in the goodness of others, is going to make all the difference, Pelosi said at a gathering of cheering Tibetans.

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Additionally, she stated that the Resolve Tibet Acts bipartisan support conveys to China Washingtons clear position on the matter.

This bill says to the Chinese government: things have changed now, get ready for that, she said.

With President Joe Bidens signature, the act will force China to reopen conversations with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders that have been on hold for the past 14 years.

Unlike all US presidents since George HW Bush, Biden has never had a meeting with the Dalai Lama.

After it is signed, the Resolve Tibet Act will serve as a potent declaration of the United States of Americas commitment to the people of Tibet, according to Tibetan leaders, particularly the Central Tibetan Administration, or CTA.

The US has historically defended the Tibetan peoples freedom to exercise their religion and culture, and it has charged China with violating such rights in the far-off Himalayan territory that shares a border with India.

However, confusingly, the US also regards the Tibetan Autonomous Region as a part of China.

Pelosis surprising attack not only strengthens Indias stance against China, but it also highlights Washingtons intention to prevent Beijing from interfering in the next Dalai Lamas appointment and coincides with US President Joe Bidens signing of a law compelling Beijing to resolve the Tibet problem.

The Dalai Lama, who will turn 89 next month, is customarily reincarnated, and he has stated that his successor might be found in India. But in keeping with a historical tradition, China maintains that the next Dalai Lama will be named by officially atheist Communist officials.

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Congressman Gregory Meeks (D-NY) headed the US team that arrived in India on Tuesday. At the airport in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, they were greeted by Tibetan officials, Buddhist monks and nuns, and schoolchildren. This visit precedes the Dalai Lamas visit to receive medical attention for a knee ailment.

Their visit is noteworthy because it coincides with efforts by Beijing and Washington to strengthen ties between these two military and economic superpowers. China has already voiced its annoyance.

Beijing has stated that it is seriously concerned about the visit of the US delegation and the law that Biden is expected to sign, viewing the Nobel Peace laureate as a dangerous separatist.
Political leaders across the spectrum denounced the attack. France is in the midst of a blitz campaign for snap parliamentary elections on June 30 and July 7, and the frontrunner far-right National Rally party has sought to make security and immigration key campaign issues read more

The attack elicited widespread shock and concern, notably after a surge in antisemitic acts in France since the start of the Israel-Hamas war Image Courtesy AFP

Two adolescent boys in a Paris suburb have been given preliminary charges of raping a 12-year-old girl and religion-motivated violence, French authorities said Wednesday. A Jewish leader said the girl was assaulted due to her Jewish identity.

The attack elicited widespread shock and concern, notably after a surge in antisemitic acts in France since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

The girl reported a rape in the town of Courbevoie on Saturday, and three boys, aged 12 and 13, were detained, according to the regional prosecutors office.

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It said two of the boys were given multiple preliminary charges on Tuesday, including aggravated gang rape on a minor younger than 15, violence and public insult motivated by religion, death threats, attempted extortion and unlawfully recording or broadcasting sexual images.

According to victim protection laws, the prosecutors office did not disclose the girls identity or faith, as is customary in France when it comes to hate crimes.

Later, in an interview with French channel BFM, attorney and Jewish leader Elie Korchia revealed that the girl is Jewish and that during the attack, there was mention of Palestine. Referring to the girls rape as having occurred because shes Jewish, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal posted on X, the previous Twitter platform, calling it an antisemitic incident.

Political leaders across the spectrum denounced the attack. France is in the midst of a blitz campaign for snap parliamentary elections on June 30 and July 7, and the frontrunner far-right National Rally party has sought to make security and immigration key campaign issues.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin described the attack as awful, and said police were limited in their ability to prevent such violence. Its a problem of the parents  of authority. Its a problem of society as a whole, he said on BFM television.

On Wednesday evening, hundreds of people gathered in front of Paris City Hall to protest antisemitism. Many in the crowd were holding placards, including some bearing the slogan raped because shes Jewish.
In 2006, Vladimir Putin helped the UNSC penalise North Korea as its trade in weapons and luxury goods among other things were banned. North Korea has become a pariah for many nations but Putin is reviving the old bilateral friendship. What happened? read more

Vladimir Putin is cornered. Kim Jong Un is isolated. And yet both disregard the global opinion in conducting their businesses. The two leaders, proscribed by the world for all practical purposes, met in Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea on Wednesday. This came as a turnaround though it was not their first meeting.

The Putin-Kim meeting stood in stark contrast given that the Russian president was among the leaders who ensured that North Korea was isolated for violating the accepted norms to ensure nuclear and missile technology and upholding human rights of the citizens.

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Why was North Korea sanctioned?

North Korea came into being under the leadership of Kim II Sung, the grandfather of the current ruler, in 1948. Under successive Kims  King Jong II and Kim Jong Un  North Korea has used nuclear weapons and the technology to make them a commercial article and considers them a means to guarantee its survival.

Incidentally, North Korea had ratified the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty in 1985 but withdrew in 2003, blaming the USs aggressive policies. In 1988, it carried its first nuclear test, showing off its weapon-making capabilities.

Under Kims father  Kim Jong II, who ruled from 1997 to 2011  North Koreas nuclear technology started moving out to other countries of West Asia and North Africa, alarming the West. Finally, a series of resolutions were brought in the UNSC in 2006. Russia and other UNSC members voted to ban weapons trade, transfers of missile technology and shipment of luxury goods to North Korea.

Why doesnt Kim Jong Un patch up with the West?

North Korea calls itself Democratic Peoples Republic but it has been under one family-rule. Kim and his sister Kim Yo Jong have kept a firm grip on the North Korean establishment since the death of their father Kim Jong II. They have ruled the country with an iron hand.

Observers point to change of autocratic regimes in countries such as Iraq and Libya as the possible reason why Kim is not ready to normalise North Koreas global ties. They say Kim interprets the fall of governments in Iraq and Libya as a consequence of the leaderships of these countries giving up their nuclear weapons to integrate with the West. Kim apparently sees North Koreas nuclear weapons and technology as an insurance policy to keep his family in power while charging enough money from buyers to keep his countrys finances going.

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Where does Putin fit in?

Putin is a spy-turned-politician with roots in the Cold War. His rise is also considered a consequence of the fall of Soviet Russia, which had a Friendship Treaty with North Korea for being a communist regime. One of his early foreign visits during his initial days holding the reins of power in Russia was a trip to North Korea in 2000. Putin assumed Russias national leadership in 1999.

Kim Jong II was ruling North Korea back then. They met and affirmed to keep the old friendly ties going through trade and other means of cooperation. Six years down the line, Putin changed his mind and supported nine sanctions against North Korea, crippling its economy.

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But something changed.

Putin developed his own issues with the West. Signs were there in 2007 itself. But the Putin-versus-West clash started assuming a problematic scale in the mid-2010s.

In 2007, Putin told the Munich Security Conference, One state and, of course, first and foremost the United States, has overstepped its national borders in every wayI am convinced that we have reached that decisive moment when we must seriously think about the architecture of global security.

Seven years later, he surprised many by annexing Crimea, an island of Ukraine. The West practically could do nothing. This cemented Putins worldview  that there are only three or four truly sovereign countries in the world  Russia, China, the United States and India.

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In 2022, he told a delegation of young entrepreneurs that there is no in-between, no intermediate state: either a country is sovereign, or it is a colony, no matter what the colonies are called.

It was during this period, Putin warmed up to North Korea, again.

How Putin and Kim have got closer

In April 2019, Putin and Kim Jong Un met in Vladivostok in the Russian Far East for their first summit. And their bonhomie survived a frosty response from Kim during the Covid-19 pandemic.

In February 2020, Kim closed North Koreas borders with Russia, and also with China, to prevent the coronavirus from entering his country. Even the Russian diplomats and their family members had to use a hand-pushed rail trolley to get over the frontier.

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But when Putin ordered his forces to invade Ukraine in February 2022, North Korea defended it as an act against the hegemonic policy and high-handedness of the United States and the West.

Putin returned the favour in March 2022 by vetoing a US-drafted resolution for more sanction on North Korea  ban on tobacco and oil imports. It was the first time that the UNSC had split wide open in public over the question of North Korea.

In July 2023, Putin sent his defence minister Sergei Shoigu to Pyongyang, where Kim himself gave the Russian leader a tour of North Koreas defence expo which featured its banned ballistic missiles.

Two months later, in September 2023, Kim travelled to the Russian Far East for a second summit with Putin, discussing military cooperation, the war in Ukraine and Russian help for developing North Koreas satellite programme. A spy satellite was of particular interest to Kim. North Korea finally placed its first spy satellite into orbit in 2023.

By 2023-end, the US was accusing North Korea of supplying weapons to Russia, which was reportedly facing an ammunition crunch due to its prolonged war in Ukraine.

On his second North Korea visit, Putin on Wednesday appreciated Kim for all the support his regime has extended to Russia during the Ukraine war. He said, We very much appreciate your systematic and permanent support of Russian policy, including on the Ukrainian issueToday a new foundation document has been prepared, which will form the basis of our relations for the long term.

It was in sync with what Kim said on Putins visit. He said, Relations between our countries are entering a new era of blossoming, which cannot be compared even with the period of Korean-Soviet relations of the last century.

A cornered and an isolated leader  with the help of their common benefactor Chinas Xi Jinping  have come closer than ever. The question is: did the West push them into one anothers arms?
German officials have warned that the biggest challenge for the economy will be growth constraints due to a workforce shortage, with some 1.57 million jobs currently unfilled. In 2023, net migration to the country compensated for its Germanys birth rate and ageing population, leading to a rise of 300,000 to a new record of 84.7 million people. read more

Germany is projected to experience a 2% decline in its working-age population by 2045, a development that could exacerbate concerns over growth constraints in Europes largest economy. According to a forecast released on Wednesday by the Federal Institute for Research on Building, Urban Affairs, and Spatial Development (BBSR), the number of people aged between 20 and 67 is expected to decrease, even as the overall population is anticipated to grow by 0.9% or 800,000 people, primarily due to net migration.

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While net migration has bolstered the countrys total population, pushing it to a record 84.7 million in 2023, this influx has not offset the demographic shift in the working-age group. The population segment aged 67 and above, eligible for retirement, is projected to increase significantly by 13.6% or 2.2 million people, compounding the challenges posed by an ageing society.

This demographic change is poised to intensify the strain on Germanys economy, which is already grappling with a significant workforce shortage. Currently, there are about 1.57 million unfilled jobs, highlighting a critical gap in the labour market that could hinder economic growth and productivity. German officials have underscored that managing this impending workforce deficit will be one of the most pressing challenges for sustaining economic momentum in the coming decades.

Germany is becoming older and more diverse, Construction Minister Klara Geywitz told Reuters.. The challenges facing the country over the next two decades will include securing skilled workers, integration, more age-appropriate housing, digitization across the country and adapting social infrastructures, Geywitz said.

Germanys working-age population reached its peak at the end of the 20th century, but demographic decline has been delayed due to the influx of millions of immigrants and an increasing number of women joining the workforce. However, these mitigating trends are now waning just as the post-World War II baby-boomer generation begins to retire. This shift poses a significant challenge to Germanys economy, which will need to rely heavily on boosting the productivity of its existing workforce to sustain economic growth.

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According to projections from Bloomberg Economics, Germanys overall economic growth is expected to hover around 1% per year for the foreseeable future. This modest growth forecast is a consequence of the diminishing working-age population and the challenges posed by an ageing society.

Among its Western peers, Germany faces the most substantial demographic drag on growth for the next decade, surpassed only by Japan. Japan, which has traditionally been a more closed society with lower female workforce participation and a rapidly aging population, offers a parallel to the demographic issues Germany is encountering. Both countries are on similar paths, with Germany now approaching the demographic challenges that Japan has been grappling with for some time.

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With inputs from agencies.
Japan has signed similar intelligence agreements with eight other countries including the United States, Australia, Britain, India and South Korea, as well as with NATO. Japan is also negotiating with Canada over a similar deal and has agreed with Ukraine to start talks read more

Prime Ministers Fumio Kishida and Christopher Luxon of New Zealand jointly released a statement expressing concern about the developing tension in the South China Sea, where China is asserting its territorial claims more forcefully Image Courtesy AP

On Wednesday, the leaders of Japan and New Zealand reached a basic agreement on an intelligence sharing agreement, voicing concerns about the regions growing security challenges, which include tighter connections between North Korea and Russia.

Prime Ministers Fumio Kishida and Christopher Luxon of New Zealand jointly released a statement expressing concern about the developing tension in the South China Sea, where China is asserting its territorial claims more forcefully.

According to a statement issued by Japans Foreign Ministry, Kishida and Luxon welcomed the agreement in principle of an information security agreement to allow the sharing of secret material.

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The two leaders also agreed to accelerate talks toward signing a pact that would allow the two countries forces to share logistical support and supplies during bilateral training and other operations.

Under Japans 2022 national security strategy the country has been accelerating military buildup and expanding defense partnerships amid threats from China, North Korea and Russia.

Kishida and Luxon condemned in the strongest possible terms the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including the Norths shipment to Russia of ballistic missiles used against Ukraine, the joint statement said.

There is no more important time than right now for our two countries to be engaging together to understand and to respond to the serious regional issues in Japans neighborhood, Luxon told a joint news conference after the talks. He said the two leaders discussed Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to Pyongyang and how North Korea is fueling Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Wednesday signed an agreement that pledged mutual aid if either country faces aggression, at a summit held at a time both face escalating standoffs from the West.

Putins visit was his first in 24 years as the United States and its allies expressed growing concerns over a possible arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by North Koreas nuclear weapons and missile program.

Japan has signed similar intelligence agreements with eight other countries including the United States, Australia, Britain, India and South Korea, as well as with NATO. Japan is also negotiating with Canada over a similar deal and has agreed with Ukraine to start talks.
On the orders of the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the victims families will receive compensation amounting to $15,000 each (Rs 12.5 lakh), the Arab Times newspaper reported on Tuesday read more

Kuwaiti security forces stand outside a building which was ingulfed by fire, in Kuwait City, on 12 June 2024. AFP

The Kuwaiti government will give $15,000 each as compensation to the families of the victims of the devastating fire that killed 50 people, including 46 Indians, in the southern Ahmadi Governorate, according to a media report.

The massive fire which occurred at a seven-storey building in the city of Mangaf on July 12 was caused by an electrical short circuit in the guards room on the structures ground floor, according to Kuwaiti authorities.

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The building was home to 196 migrant workers, mostly Indians.

On the orders of the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the victims families will receive compensation amounting to $15,000 each (Rs 12.5 lakh), the Arab Times newspaper reported on Tuesday.

Citing government sources, the newspaper said the compensation payments will be processed and delivered to the victims embassies.

Three other deceased were Filipinos, and the identity of one of the victims has not been established.

The concerned embassies will ensure that the funds are distributed to the families of those affected by the fire, expediting the process and ensuring that the assistance reaches the victims families promptly and efficiently, the report said.

This financial aid aims to support the bereaved families during this difficult time, the newspaper said.

The Indian government had announced compensation of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of Indian nationals who lost their lives in the massive fire.

The Kerala government last week said it will provide Rs 5 lakh financial assistance to the families of the people from the state who died in the fire tragedy.

The Indians who died in the tragedy included 24 Malayalis.

Kuwaits public prosecutor has launched an investigation into the incident. The probe aims to uncover the circumstances behind the incident, and what might have triggered the deadly fire, the public prosecutor said on X.

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A Kuwaiti citizen and several foreigners have been arrested in connection with charges of manslaughter and causing injuries due to negligence in security and safety measures following the fire incident.
Days after Maldives decided to ban Israelis following public anger in the predominantly Muslim nation over the Gaza war, the Mohamed Muizzu government has paused the plan as it realised that the new law could impact as many as 2 million Arab-Muslims residing in the Jewish state, according to a report read more

Days after Maldives decided to ban Israelis from the Indian Ocean archipelago following public anger in the predominantly Muslim nation over the Gaza war, the Mohamed Muizzu government has paused the plan as it realised that the new law could impact as many as 2 million Arab-Muslims residing in the Jewish state, according to a report.

The presidents office said on 2 June that the Cabinet has decided to change laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the country and to establish a subcommittee to oversee the process.

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It said President Muizu will appoint a special envoy to assess the Palestinian needs and to launch a fundraising campaign.

In response, Israels Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oren Marmorstein said that Israel has recommended its citizens to avoid any travel to the Maldives, including those with foreign passports, and those currently there to consider leaving.

However, after two weeks, the Maldives realised that Israel isnt just about Jews.

According to The Jewish Chronicle, Maldives Attorney General Ahmed Usham who referred to Arab-Israelis as Palestinians was concerned about the new law affecting them.

The biggest concern is that there are many Palestinians with Israeli passports, millions of them. What happens when we impose the blanket ban on them? The Jewish Chronicle quoted him as saying.

Ahmed Usham, however, stressed that while the governments stand on barring Israelis remained unchanged, it was only reconsidering the impact of a blanket law on Israeli passport holders who are Arab Muslim or Palestinians.

These are matters that need careful consideration, The Algemeiner quoted Usham as saying, signalling a further review.

Meanwhile, many Maldivian lawmakers have criticised the governments plan to impose blanket ban on Israelis

When we decide that a person with Israeli nationality cant come to the Maldives, that means were talking about deciding that Jews cant come. Therefore, as they are people who have believed in prophets of a religion revealed by Allah, we need to think very deeply about the chance of us doing such a thing, from that perspective, we need to think about that very carefully, The Jewish Chronicle quoted lawmaker Qasim Ibrahim as saying.

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The Maldives decision came after pressure from opposition parties and government allies in the 100 per cent Sunni Muslim nation to ban Israelis as a result of the Israel-Hamas war.

Around 528 Israeli nationals visited the Maldives from January to April this year. This was down from 4,644 in the same period in 2023, according to Maldives government data.

Nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the archipelago last year, accounting for 0.6 per cent of total tourist arrivals.

With inputs from agencies
Ruttes support for Ukraine is underscored by his criticism of Russia and its President Vladimir Putin, as the Netherlands holds Russia accountable for the downing of passenger flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in July 2014 - which killed all 298 passengers and crew, 196 of them from the Netherlands read more

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte speaks to the media on the day of a European Union leaders informal summit in Brussels, Belgium June 17, 2024. Reuters

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, a staunch ally of Kyiv and a critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, will succeed Jens Stoltenberg as NATO chief, Dutch national broadcaster NOS reported on Tuesday, after Hungary and Slovakia backed him.

Speaking at a news conference alongside US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington, Stoltenberg neither confirmed nor denied the media report.

With the announcement of (Hungarian) Prime Minister (Viktor) Orban, I think its obvious that we are very close to a conclusion  to select the next secretary-general, and I think thats good news, he told reporters while praising Rutte.

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I think Mark is a very strong candidate. He has a lot of experience as prime minister. Hes a close friend and colleague, and I therefore strongly believe that very soon, the alliance will have decided on my successor, he said. And that will be good for all of us, for NATO and also for me.

NATOs next secretary-general will face the challenge of sustaining allies support for Ukraines fight against Russias invasion while guarding against any escalation that could draw the military alliance directly into a war with Moscow.

In the two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion, Rutte has been one of the driving forces behind Europes military support to Ukraine, stressing time and again what he said was the absolute need for a Russian battlefield defeat to secure peace in Europe.

Under his recent leadership, the Netherlands has ramped up defence spending above the 2 per cent threshold of GDP required of NATO members, providing F-16 fighter jets, artillery, drones and ammunition to Kyiv as well as investing heavily in its own military.

Ruttes support for Ukraine is underscored by his criticism of Russia and its President Vladimir Putin, as the Netherlands holds Russia accountable for the downing of passenger flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in July 2014 - which killed all 298 passengers and crew, 196 of them from the Netherlands.

Hours before the NOS report, Hungary and Slovakia had given their support to the candidacy of Rutte, clearing a crucial hurdle on his way to NATOs top job.

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NATO makes decisions by consensus, so any candidate needs the support of all 32 allies. Only Romania, whose President Klaus Iohannis is also vying for the job, is still officially opposed to Ruttes candidacy.

Hungarys backing followed a meeting Orban had with Stoltenberg last week, where the two sides agreed that Hungary would not block NATO decisions on providing support for Ukraine but has agreed that it would not be involved.

Orban drops opposition

PM Mark Rutte confirmed that he fully supports this deal and will continue to do so, should he become the next Secretary General of NATO, Orban wrote on the X social media platform.

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In light of his pledge, Hungary is ready to support PM Ruttes bid for NATO Secretary-General.

Orban had earlier opposed Ruttes candidacy because he had expressed problematic opinions that included the idea that Hungary should leave the European Union.

Hungary has been at odds with other NATO countries over Orbans continued cultivation of close ties with Russia and refusal to send arms to Ukraine, with Budapests foreign minister last month labelling plans to help the war-torn nation a crazy mission.

Turkey and Slovakia have also changed course on Ruttes bid, with Turkey saying it would support him in late April and Slovakia announcing its support earlier on Tuesday.

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Slovakia, which borders Ukraine, had stressed the need for the next NATO chief to help deal with the protection of Slovak airspace, its President Peter Pellegrini said, after the previous Slovak government donated an S-300 system to Ukraine, and allies pulled out Patriot batteries that had been temporarily placed there.

Stoltenbergs term will end on October 1, 10 years after taking office in 2014, just a few months after Russia annexed Crimea.

During his tenure, Stoltenberg oversaw NATOs shift from an alliance mainly engaged in crisis management missions in far-off places such as Afghanistan back to its roots of defence against Russia.

Four countries have joined NATO since Stoltenberg took office - Montenegro, North Macedonia, Finland and Sweden.

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By giving the top job to Rutte, the alliance will pass the opportunity to see a woman, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, take the helm of NATO for the first time - something several members had lobbied for.

Kallas, a candidate mainly touted by Eastern European countries, was seen as too hawkish towards Russia by some Western member states.
The sinking of the Tutor in the Red Sea marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Iranian-backed Houthis in their campaign targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip read more

A bulk carrier sank days after an attack by Yemens Houthi rebels believed to have killed one mariner on board, authorities said early Wednesday, the second such ship to be sunk in the rebel campaign.

The sinking of the Tutor in the Red Sea marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Iranian-backed Houthis in their campaign targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

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The attack comes despite a monthslong US-led campaign in the region that has seen the Navy face its most intense maritime fighting since World War II, with near-daily attacks targeting commercial vessels and warships.

The Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated Tutor sank in the Red Sea, the British militarys United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said in a warning to sailors in the region.

Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the last reported location, the UKMTO said. The vessel is believed to have sunk.

The Houthis did not immediately acknowledge the sinking. The US military as well did not immediately acknowledge the sinking and did not respond to requests for comment.

The Tutor came under attack about a week ago by a bomb-carrying Houthi drone boat in the Red Sea. John Kirby, a White House national security spokesman, said Monday that the attack killed a crew member who hailed from the Philippines. The Philippines has yet to acknowledge the death, but the man who had been aboard the Tutor has been missing for over a week in the Red Sea, which faces intense summertime heat.

The use of a boat loaded with explosives raised the specter of 2000s USS Cole attack, a suicide assault by al-Qaida on the warship when it was at port in Aden, killing 17 on board. The Cole is now part of a US Navy operation led by the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the Red Sea to try and halt the Houthi attacks, though the rebels continue their assaults.

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The Houthis have launched more than 50 attacks on shipping, killing four sailors. Theyve seized one vessel and sunk two since November, according to the US Maritime Administration. A US-led airstrike campaign has targeted the Houthis since January, with a series of strikes May 30 killing at least 16 people and wounding 42 others, the rebels say.

In March, the Belize-flagged Rubymar carried a load of fertilizer sank in the Red Sea after taking on water for days following a rebel attack.

The Houthis have maintained their attacks target ships linked to Israel, the US or the U.K. However, many of the ships theyve attacked have little or no connection to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

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The war in Gaza has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians there, while hundreds of others have been killed in Israeli operations in the West Bank. It began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostage.

A recent report by the US Defense Intelligence Agency acknowledged container shipping through Red Sea has declined by 90% since December over the attacks. As much as 15% of the worlds maritime traffic flows through that corridor.
New Delhi has long complained about Sikh separatist groups outside India, viewing them as security threats. The groups have kept alive the movement for Khalistan, or the demand for an independent Sikh state to be carved out of India. read more

Indian national Nikhil Gupta, 52, was extradited to the United States Friday from the Czech Republic following his arrest in Prague a year ago. Many countries will be keeping a close watch over the proceedings as India has complicated relations with countries such as Canada, Australia, Pakistan, Qatar, and Germany among others over the issue of alleged spying and interfering in the internal process of the country including the attempt of killing Khalistani separatists and their citizens.

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US accuses India of plotting to kill Pannun

In November, US authorities said an Indian government official had directed the plot in the attempted murder of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent Sikh separatist leader, who is a U.S. and Canadian citizen. Gupta is accused of involvement in that plot.

According to an indictment, Gupta was recruited in May by an unidentified Indian government employee to orchestrate the assassination. Gupta has denied any involvement. The indictment said Gupta contacted a criminal associate to help find a hit man to carry out the killing, but that person happened to be a DEA informant. The informant then introduced Gupta to a purported hit man, who was actually a DEA agent, it said.

The discovery of alleged assassination plots against Sikh separatists in the U.S. and Canada has tested relations with India, seen by Western nations as a counter to Chinas rising global influence. New Delhi denies involvement in such plots.

However, Indias government has dissociated itself from the plot against Pannun, saying it was against government policy. It has said it would formally investigate security concerns raised by Washington. New Delhi has long complained about Sikh separatist groups outside India, viewing them as security threats. The groups have kept alive the movement for Khalistan, or the demand for an independent Sikh state to be carved out of India. Last month, Washington said it was satisfied so far with Indias moves to ensure accountability in the alleged plots, but added that many steps still needed to be taken.

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Pakistan accuses Indian agents involvements in extrajudicial killings of its citizens

Pakistan has been accusing neighboring Indias intelligence agency of involvement in the extrajudicial killings of its citizens, saying it had credible evidence linking Indian agents to the deaths of Pakistanis. The Guardian reported that Research and Analysis Wing (Raw), had been involved in up to 20 killings of individuals in Pakistan since 2020, as part of a wider policy to target terrorists living on foreign soil.

In recent years, Pakistan has seen a significant increase in targeted operations against convicted terrorists, particularly those associated with Islamist groups responsible for attacks in India. This shift in strategy reportedly began in 2019, following the Pulwama attack, where members of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror group, killed 40 Indian paramilitary personnel in Kashmir. At the time, Narendra Modi, who was seeking re-election, was in power.

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Indian intelligence sources have revealed to the Guardian that this change in approach was inspired by tactics used by agencies like Israels Mossad. They also referenced the high-profile assassination of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 within the Saudi consulate in Istanbul as a potential influence. These incidents suggest that India has been looking at these models for guidance in conducting their operations against terrorists in Pakistan, the Guardian reported.

Germany charges Indian spying on the Sikh community & Kashmir activists

In 2020, Germany charged an Indian man with spying on the Sikh community and Kashmir activists in the country for the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) since January 2015. The R&AW reportedly suspected that people with vested elements having links with local security agencies were providing support to the Khalistani leaders and thats why legal action was not taken against the Khalistani operatives in that country.

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Gurmeet Singh Bagga, a prominent operative of the Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), is reportedly roaming freely in Germany and actively involved in anti-India activities. Bagga, also known by the aliases Doctor and Bagga, has been pivotal in attempts to revitalise the KZF, a militant group aiming to revive terrorism in Punjab, India.

According to various reports, Bagga has played a crucial role in re-organising the KZF and establishing sleeper cells within Punjab. These sleeper cells have been discovered and dismantled by Punjab Police in recent operations. Beyond this, Bagga has been actively involved in smuggling including sending arms, counterfeit Indian currency, and drugs into Punjab through his connections in Pakistan.

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India-Canada strained ties over Nijjar killing

The ties between India and Canada came under severe strain following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus allegations in September last year of the potential involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Nijjar. India has dismissed Trudeaus charges as absurd and motivated. Nijjar, a Khalistani separatist, was wanted in India on various terror charges.

India has been asserting that its core issue with Canada remained that of the space given to separatists, terrorists and anti-India elements in that country.

Following Trudeaus allegations last year, India temporarily suspended the issuance of visas to Canadian citizens. The visa services were resumed several weeks later.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had recently said that by allowing political space to Khalistani separatist elements, the Canadian government is sending a message that its vote bank is more powerful than its rule of law.

Indian officers expelled from Australia in 2020: report

A new investigation by ABC TV highlighted that at least four Indian intelligence officers were asked to leave Australia in 2020 after they were caught attempting to gain access to sensitive defence technology and airport security protocols.

The so-called foreign nest of spies reportedly disrupted by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) in 2020 was also accused of closely monitoring Indians living in Australia and developing close relationships with current and former politicians.

Qatar

The eight Indian nationals were imprisoned in Qatar since October 2022 and were accused of allegedly spying on a submarine programme. The retired naval personnel were sentenced to death by a Qatar court on some of the charges that were not made public. In a diplomatic win for India, the Qatari Court first commuted the death penalty sentence to jail terms and was later released by Doha this year.

Sri Lankan President Sirisena accuses RAW of plotting his assassination

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has accused Indias Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) of plotting his assassination in 2018, The Hindu reported. This was not the first time that a Sri Lankan leader has accused the Indian intelligence unit of interference. Following his poll defeat in 2015, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa held RAW responsible for the regime change, the report added.

With inputs from agencies.
Noam Chomskys wife, Valeria Wasserman Chomsky, says reports Tuesday that the famed linguist and activist had died are untrue.

No, it is false, she wrote Tuesday in response to an emailed query from The Associated Press. Noam Chomsky, 95, had been hospitalized in Brazil while recovering from a stroke suffered a year ago, Valeria Chomsky told the AP last week. But the Beneficencia Portuguesa hospital in Sao Paulo said in a statement that Chomsky was discharged on Tuesday to continue his treatment at home.

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Earlier Tuesday, Chomsky was trending on X as false reports of his death abounded. Jacobin and The New Statesman published obituaries for Chomsky, though the former changed its headline from We Remember Noam Chomsky to Lets Celebrate Noam Chomsky. The New Statesman took its essay by former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis down altogether. Brazilian news site Diario do Centro do Mundo also took down its story announcing Chomskys death and issued a correction.

The Chomskys have had a residence in Brazil since 2015. Noam Chomsky, known to millions for his criticisms of U.S. foreign policy, taught for decades at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In 2017, he joined the College of Social & Behavioral Sciences at the University of Arizona in Tucson.
North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961, which experts say necessitated Moscows military intervention if the North came under an attack. The deal was discarded after the collapse of the USSR, and replaced by a pact in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances. It wasnt immediately clear if the new deal provided a similar level of protection as the 1961 treaty. read more

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un, foreground right, attend the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.- AP

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un pledged unconditional support for Russias invasion of Ukraine during talks with President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang. Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Wednesday signed a new partnership agreement to mutual aid if either country faces aggression. This pact arrives as both nations are embroiled in escalating conflicts with the West.

Kim described the relationship between Russia and North Korea as a fiery friendship and touted the agreement as the strongest ever treaty between the two nations, elevating their relationship to the level of an alliance. He pledged North Koreas full support for Russias ongoing war in Ukraine.

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Hailing the agreement, Putin termed it a breakthrough document that reflects the shared ambition to elevate bilateral relations. This new accord marks a significant development in the Russia-North Korea relationship, reminiscent of the 1961 treaty with the former Soviet Union, which required Moscow to intervene militarily if North Korea was attacked. That treaty was replaced in 2000 with a less robust pact following the Soviet Unions collapse. It remains unclear if the new deal reinstates the level of protection offered by the 1961 treaty.

The meeting, held on Wednesday, was Putins first visit to North Korea in 24 years, highlighting the growing ties between the two countries amid U.S. concerns about potential North Korean arms supplies to Russia.

Kim emphasized North Koreas steadfast support for Russia, describing Russia as crucial in maintaining a strategic balance globally. He expressed commitment to strengthening relations with Russia, underscoring the significance of Russias role in the international arena.

Putins visit to North Korea comes amid concerns about a potential arms deal between the two nations. Reports suggest that North Korea might supply Russia with much-needed munitions for its ongoing war in Ukraine. In return, Russia could provide North Korea with economic assistance and technology transfers. Such an arrangement could significantly bolster Kims nuclear weapons and missile programs that could escalate the threat posed by him.

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Kim Jong Un welcomed Putin with great fanfare, personally greeting him at the airport. The two leaders shared a warm exchange, including handshakes, hugs, and a ride together in a limousine. The motorcade traversed Pyongyangs streets adorned with giant Russian flags and portraits of Putin, reflecting the significance of the visit. During their talks, Putin expressed gratitude for North Koreas support in Ukraine, framing their cooperation as part of a broader struggle against U.S. and Western imperialist hegemonistic policies.

Putin also emphasized the historical ties between their countries, highlighting the Soviet armys role in fighting the Japanese in Korea during World War II and Moscows support for North Korea during the Korean War.

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Both nations are currently under heavy sanctions: North Korea by the U.N. Security Council for its weapons programs, and Russia by the U.S. and Western allies due to its invasion of Ukraine. Despite denials from Pyongyang and Moscow, U.S. and South Korean officials have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with military equipment, including artillery and missiles, to support its war effort in Ukraine. Such actions would violate U.N. sanctions, which Russia had previously supported.

In recent months, the U.S. State Department has reported the unlawful transfer of numerous ballistic missiles and thousands of munitions from North Korea to Russia. Furthermore, Russia, alongside China, has shielded North Korea from additional U.N. sanctions in response to its weapons tests, signaling a deepening bond between Moscow and Pyongyang amid their confrontations with the West.

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With inputs from agencies.
Iran-aligned Houthi militants first launched drone and missile strikes on the important trade route in November in what they say is solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. In more than 70 attacks, they have also seized one vessel and its crew and killed at least three seafarers. read more

Industry groups have called for urgent action to address the rising attacks on merchant shipping in the Red Sea by Yemens Houthi rebels. This appeal comes after the sinking of a second vessel in recent weeks, intensifying concerns over the safety of this critical trade route.

Since November, Houthi militants, aligned with Iran, have launched over 70 drone and missile strikes in the Red Sea. The Houthis claim these attacks are a show of solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. In addition to these assaults, they have seized one ship and its crew, resulting in the deaths of at least three seafarers.

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The ongoing conflict in the Red Sea threatens the security of global maritime traffic, as this region is essential for the movement of goods between Asia, Europe, and other parts of the world. The attacks have caused significant disruption and heightened risks for vessels navigating these waters.

A recent report by the US Defense Intelligence Agency acknowledged container shipping through Red Sea has declined by 90% since December over the attacks. As much as 15% of the worlds maritime traffic flows through that corridor.

The Greek-owned Tutor coal carrier attacked by Yemens Houthi militants in the Red Sea last week has sunk, salvagers confirmed on Wednesday. The vessel was struck with missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat, according to sources.

International naval forces have been deployed to provide mainly defensive support for ships still sailing through the Red Sea, but the attacks have increased significantly.

There have been 10 Houthi strikes so far in June compared with five in May, said Munro Anderson, head of operations at marine war risk and insurance specialist Vessel Protect, part of Pen Underwriting. Ships must divert around southern Africa, which is the best way to protect seafarers, said Stephen Cotton, General Secretary with the International Transport Workers Federation, the leading seafarers union.

The Houthis have launched more than 60 attacks targeting specific vessels and fired off other missiles and drones in their campaign that has killed a total of four sailors. Theyve seized one vessel and sunk two since November. A U.S.-led airstrike campaign has targeted the Houthis since January, with a series of strikes May 30 killing at least 16 people and wounding 42 others, the rebels say.

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In March, the Belize-flagged Rubymar carried a load of fertilizer sank in the Red Sea after taking on water for days following a rebel attack.

According to UN Trade & Development, security threats in the Red Sea have caused a significant redirection of ship arrivals and transits culminating in far-reaching global trade and transport repercussions.

The current rerouting of ships from the Asia-Europe and Asia-Atlantic trade lanes around Africas Cape of Good Hope is significantly altering global shipping patterns. This shift has led to longer travel distances and increased operational costs for vessels, creating substantial supply chain pressures. For example, a ship traveling from Shanghai to Rotterdam now faces an additional 12 days of sailing time, which not only drives up costs but also contributes to extended delays.

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The Red Sea crisis has exacerbated these issues, impacting African ports by causing congestion and operational challenges. The rerouting means more vessels are now calling at these ports, particularly for bunkering services. However, many African ports are not fully equipped to handle the increased volume of ship calls or accommodate larger vessels efficiently, leading to further delays and logistical challenges.

This disruption highlights the urgent need for African countries and ports to scale up their efforts in implementing trade facilitation measures. There is a pressing need to embrace digitalization and integrate green processes to alleviate port congestion and streamline the clearance of goods. These steps are crucial to managing the growing shipping traffic and ensuring that ports can handle the increased demands placed on them by the changing global shipping routes.

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As the shipping industry navigates these challenges, the focus must be on enhancing the infrastructure and capabilities of African ports. This includes upgrading facilities to accommodate larger vessels and increasing efficiency through technological advancements. By doing so, African ports can better manage the influx of ships and reduce the operational disruptions caused by the current rerouting patterns.

With inputs from agencies.
Cyril Ramaphosa will have to guide the first coalition government in which no party has a majority. At least three parties will make up what the ANC is calling a government of national unity, with more invited to join read more

Cyril Ramaphosa, is sworn in as South Africa's President by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo (L), at his inauguration at the Union Buildings in Tshwane, South Africa, on June 19, 2024. Source: AP.

Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for a second term as South Africas president on Wednesday in a ceremony in the administrative capital, Pretoria, with help from a coalition of parties for the first time in its 30-year rule.

Ramaphosa is now set to appoint a Cabinet in a new coalition government after his African National Congress (ANC) party lost its parliamentary majority in an election last month. He was reelected president by lawmakers on Friday after the main opposition party and a smaller third party joined the ANC in an agreement to co-govern Africas most industrialised economy.

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He will have to guide the first coalition government in which no party has a majority. At least three parties will make up what the ANC is calling a government of national unity, with more invited to join.

Ramaphosa was administered the oath of office in a public ceremony at the Union Buildings, the seat of government, by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo.

King Mswati III of Eswatini, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Zimbabwe President Emerson Mnangagwa and former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga were among many dignitaries who attended the inauguration ceremony as Ramaphosa begins what promises to be a tough final term in office.

The ceremony included a 21-gun salute by the presidential guard and a flypast by the South Africa Air Force over the Union Buildings. South African musicians and cultural dancers entertained thousands of citizens who attended the swearing-in.

Addressing the nation, Ramaphosa said that the people had spoken and their will would be adhered to.

The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone. They have directed us to work together to address their plight and realise their aspirations, he said.

The newly elected head of state said that the people of South Africa have also been unequivocal in expressing their disappointment and disapproval of our performance in some of the areas in which we have failed them.

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Ramaphosa also recognised that South African society remains deeply unequal and highly polarised which could " easily turn into instability.

The lines drawn by our history, between black and white, between man and woman, between suburbs and townships, between urban and rural, between the wealthy and the poor, remain etched in our landscape, he said.

He also promised that the new government would create new work opportunities to face the crippling unemployment as well as work on providing people with basic services like housing, healthcare and clean water.

While Ramphosas words were meant to reassure an already economically strained population, the new administration could prove challenging to lead.

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It is made up of parties that are ideologically opposed and dont see eye to eye on how to address the countrys many challenges, including land redistribution policies and proposed solutions to the countrys crippling electricity crisis, as well as their contrary views on affirmative action.

Major players such as the Democratic Alliance and the Inkatha Freedom Party have already joined the coalition, and others like the Patriotic Alliance, the GOOD Party and the Pan Africanist Congress are widely expected to follow suit.

However, the third largest party led by former president Jacob Zuma, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, and the leftist Economic Freedom Fighters party have refused to be part of it.

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It is unclear when the formation of the new cabinet of South Africas seventh administration would be announced.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, which includes the Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines maintains a rusting warship, BRP Sierra Madre, that it beached in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims. A small crew is stationed on it. read more

China must avoid actions that endanger sailors and vessels in the South China Sea, the Philippine foreign ministry said on Wednesday, adding peace cannot be achieved if Chinas words do not match its behaviour in the disputed waters.

The ministry denounced Chinas illegal and aggressive actions during a routine resupply mission in the South China Sea on June 17, which the Philippine military said had severely injured a navy sailor and damaged Manilas vessels.

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In line with the Philippines commitment to pursue peace, the Department has been exerting efforts to rebuild a conducive environment for dialogue and consultation with China on the South China Sea, the ministry said.

This cannot be achieved if Chinas words do not match their actions on the waters. A Philippine navy sailor suffered a serious injury after what the countrys military called on Tuesday intentional-high speed ramming by the Chinese coast guard to disrupt a mission to resupply troops stationed on the Second Thomas Shoal.

Chinas Coast Guard has disputed this, saying Manilas vessel deliberately and dangerously approached a Chinese ship in an unprofessional manner, forcing it to take control measures, including boarding inspections, and forced evictions.

A spokesperson for the military said the navy sailor, whom the military chief awarded with a Wounded Personnel Medal on Wednesday, lost a finger and was recovering in a hospital.

Chinas embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to the request for comment on the foreign ministrys statement and the reported injury sustained by navy personnel. The United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have condemned Chinas actions.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, which includes the Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines maintains a rusting warship, BRP Sierra Madre, that it beached in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims. A small crew is stationed on it.

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In January, Manila and Beijing agreed to improve maritime communication and properly manage conflicts and differences through friendly talks, especially around the Second Thomas Shoal, known as Renai Reef in China, and Ayungin in Manila.

China, whose expansive claims have been invalidated by an international tribunal in 2016, has repeatedly said Philippine vessels illegally intrude into waters surrounding disputed shoals.
China has repeatedly warned the Philippines about entering what it calls its territorial waters. As of June 15, new Chinese regulations permit the coastguard to use lethal force against foreign vessels in these contested waters and detain suspected intruders for up to 60 days without trial. read more

Philippiness top military commander said that soldiers used their bare hands to fight off Chinese coast guard personnel armed with swords, spears and knives in the disputed South China Sea, BBC reported.

The Philippine government on Monday accused Chinese ships of ramming and damaging its boats in the South China Sea during a confrontation in waters off the Second Thomas Shoal, home to a garrison of Filipino troops. The U.S. State Department called the incident the latest in a series of Chinese provocations to impede supplies from reaching Philippines personnel stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre, a Philippine vessel grounded at the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, site of repeated confrontations with China this past year.

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The Peoples Liberation Army-Navy, China Coast Guard and Chinese Maritime Militia vessels engaged in dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing, Manilas national task force on the West Philippine Sea said in a statement.

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson condemned Chinas aggressive, dangerous manoeuvres in a post on X, saying the collision had caused bodily injury. The U.S. State Department condemned what it called escalatory and irresponsible actions by China and reaffirmed that its mutual defence treaty with the Philippines applied to any armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, vessels, or aircraft anywhere in the South China Sea.

PRC vessels dangerous and deliberate use of water cannons, ramming, blocking manoeuvres, and towing damaged Philippine vessels, endangered the lives of Philippine service members, is reckless, and threatens regional peace and stability, US State Department statement said.

China and the Philippines have traded barbs for months over dangerous manoeuvres at the Second Thomas Shoal, an atoll within Manilas 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea. China claims the area as its own.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion of annual shipborne commerce, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei.

The Chinese coastguard reported that a Philippine transport and replenishment ship had disregarded multiple warnings. In response, the Philippines task force on the South China Sea accused Chinese vessels of engaging in ramming and towing maneuvers, endangering lives and causing damage to boats.

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Manilas Defense Minister, Gilberto Teodoro said that Chinas dangerous and reckless behaviour in the West Philippine Sea shall be resisted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Chinas actions are the true obstacles to peace and stability in the South China Sea, he said. These confrontations often surfaced when the Philippines undertakes resupply missions for its soldiers stationed on a decrepit warship intentionally grounded by Manila in 1999 to assert its sovereignty claims.

China has repeatedly warned the Philippines about entering what it calls its territorial waters. As of June 15, new Chinese regulations permit the coastguard to use lethal force against foreign vessels in these contested waters and detain suspected intruders for up to 60 days without trial.

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In reaction, the Philippine coastguard announced on Monday the deployment of two vessels to safeguard Filipino fishermen near Scarborough Shoal, another disputed area approximately 640 kilometers (345 nautical miles) from Second Thomas Shoal.

With inputs from agencies.
This development follows the strong rejection by Taiwans Deputy Foreign Minister of Chinas protest to the recent message exchange between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Taiwan President Lai Ching Te following the latters election victory read more

This goal was stated by Taiwan's deputy foreign minister, Tien Chung-kwang, who also noted India's substantial outbound travel and the possible advantages of streamlining the visa application process

Taiwan is actively contemplating implementing visa-on-arrival (VoA) for Indian citizens, which is a welcome development for Indian travelers.

This goal was stated by Taiwans deputy foreign minister, Tien Chung-kwang, who also noted Indias substantial outbound travel and the possible advantages of streamlining the visa application process.

In an interview with reporters in Taipei on Tuesday, he accepted the idea and emphasized that internal talks with Taiwans Immigration Department are required prior to making any official decisions. He emphasized that such a policy change requires collaboration and that the government cannot do it on its own.

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Indian citizens travel a lotWe are considering this (visa-on-arrival). We are going to talk with the Immigration Department. The Government cant single-handedly (do it), we have to discuss internally, he said.

We have been proposed to have a visa-on-arrival. We are giving very serious consideration, Tien Chung-kwang stated, reflecting Taiwans proactive stance on facilitating tourism and business travel from India.

Taiwan and India began to get in touch with one another and relax visa requirements when the Indian government launched the Look East Policy in early 1991.

This development follows the strong rejection by Taiwans Deputy Foreign Minister of Chinas protest to the recent message exchange between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Taiwan President Lai Ching Te following the latters election victory.

The deputy foreign minister of Taiwan remarked, I am sure Modi ji and our President will not be intimidated by that reaction.

It was recently reaffirmed by the Chinese Embassy in India that Taiwan is a inalienable part of Chinese land.

The spokeswoman for the embassy further emphasized that the one-China policy is an internationally accepted standard for international interactions and a widely held belief.

The commercial relationship between Taiwan and India has expanded dramatically in recent years. Under its New Southbound Policy, Taiwan views India as a vital partner. The two nations have also inked a migration agreement that permits Indian laborers to work in Taiwanese industries.

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China continues to claim the island nation, and Lai Ching-te issued a strong warning to Beijing to cease threatening it.
Gordon Black, a 34-year-old US staff sergeant, was detained on May 2 in Russias far eastern city of Vladivostok after an argument with his girlfriend, Alexandra Vashchuk, whom he had met while in South Korea read more

Gordon Black, a U.S. Army staff sergeant, who was detained in Russia on May 2 on suspicion of stealing from a woman he was in a relationship with, is escorted in a court in Vladivostok, Russia. Reuters

A US soldier was sentenced on Wednesday to nearly four years in a Russian penal colony after being found guilty by a Russian court of stealing $113 from his girlfriend and making threats to kill her, a Reuters witness reported from the courtroom.

The judgement brings an end to a tempestuous love story that brought together - and then tore apart - a married US staff sergeant and a Russian woman after an international romance that stretched from South Korea to Russia.

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Gordon Black, a 34-year-old US staff sergeant, was detained on May 2 in Russias far eastern city of Vladivostok after an argument with his girlfriend, Alexandra Vashchuk, whom he had met while in South Korea.

Judge Yelena Stepankova of the Pervomaisky District Court of Vladivostok found Black guilty of stealing 10,000 roubles ($113) from her purse and threatening to kill her.

Black, standing in a glass cage in the court room, was sentenced to three years and nine months in a Russian penal colony and ordered to pay back the 10,000 roubles.

He pleaded not guilty to threatening to kill her but admitted he was partially guilty of taking the money, though out of necessity. His defence lawyer will appeal the verdict.

Prosecutors had asked for a prison sentence of four years and eight months, while the defence asked for Black to be acquitted of all charges.

Vashchuk did not come to the court on Wednesday.

Black in April signed out of the Eighth Army at Camp Humphreys in the Republic of South Korea on a permanent change of station to return to Fort Cavazos in Texas, but instead he flew to China and then to Russia to meet Vashchuk.

The Pentagon has said that he broke army rules by travelling to Russia and China without authorisation.

Black has a wife and child in Texas. His wife Megan told Reuters last month that he and Vashchuk had a tempestuous relationship.

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Blacks mother, Melody Jones, told Reuters he had followed his girlfriend to Russia even though they fought like cats and dogs.

Russia is holding at least a dozen American citizens in jail, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who will go on trial behind closed door on charges of espionage next week. Gershkovich has denied the charges of collecting secrets for the US CIA.

The US State Department advises against all travel to Russia, which it ranks as a maximum danger alongside countries such as Afghanistan, Syria, Iran and Sudan.
The entire city has been decked up for Putin, who was welcomed with a red carpet surrounded by beds of red roses on both sides. Posters reading The friendship between North Korea and Russia is eternal, have been plastered across the city, Russian state-owned media RIA Novosti said read more

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Pyongyang early on Wednesday and was greeted by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un who was waiting for him at the airport. The two leaders hugged each other and exchanged niceties as soon as they met each other.

Putin is on his first trip to the North Korean capital in 24 years, a visit likely to reshape decades of Russia-North Korea relations at a time when both countries face international isolation.

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JUST IN:   Russian President Putin arrives in North Korea to meet with Kim Jong Un. pic.twitter.com/3LeVNu369b  BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) June 18, 2024

Allies, since North Korea was founded after the Second World War, Pyongyang and Moscow, saw their ties grow stronger since the latter attacked Ukraine in 2022. The trip comes at a time when Putin is increasingly getting isolated from the world and is looking for a friend, experts say.

The entire city has been decked up for Putin, who was welcomed with a red carpet surrounded by beds of red roses on both sides. Posters reading The friendship between North Korea and Russia is eternal, have been plastered across the city, Russian state-owned media RIA Novosti said.

Putin-Kim meet: Whats on plate?

With the Ukraine war in its third year, Putins official visit to North Korea will see the two sides signing important documents which may include a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty that will outline future cooperation and deal with security issues, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov was quoted as saying by state-run Russian news agencies.

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While thats the official line of the statement, experts have warned that the trip will focus on strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.

The visit highlights the invincibility and durability of the bilateral relationship, North Korean state-run media KCNA said, with the leaders expected to hold talks later Wednesday, after an official welcoming ceremony.

With inputs from agencies
What's behind Pentagon's clandestine disinformation campaign against Chinese vaccine

Xinhua) 17:01, June 19, 2024

BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- At the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, it appears that America was more focused on launching a clandestine program to discredit Chinese vaccines and other life-saving medical supplies than on helping the world fight the deadly virus.

A recent Reuters investigation has found that the U.S. military launched a secret disinformation campaign to discredit Chinese vaccines in the Philippines, a nation severely impacted by COVID-19.

The disclosure has sparked widespread condemnation of the U.S. scheme from public health experts. Even former U.S. intelligence officials have decried the disinformation campaign.

What the Pentagon did "crosses a line," said Greg Treverton, former chairman of the U.S. National Intelligence Council.

"DRAG CHINA THROUGH THE MUD"

China's Sinovac vaccine, the only type available in the Philippines during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, was smeared repeatedly under the Pentagon program.

Reuters reported that it identified at least 300 accounts on X, formerly Twitter, that matched descriptions shared by former U.S. military officials familiar with the Philippines operation.

Almost all were created in the summer of 2020 and centered on the slogan #Chinaangvirus, meaning China is the virus in Tagalog, a major language of the Philippines.

"We weren't looking at this from a public health perspective," a senior military officer involved in the program was cited by Reuters as saying. "We were looking at how we could drag China through the mud."

Due to the disinformation campaign, vaccination rates in the Philippines remained dismally low. In June 2021, then-Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appealed on television to the public to get vaccinated.

At that time, only about 2.1 million out of the country's 114 million people were fully vaccinated, far below the target of 70 million for that year.

"Over 60,000 Filipinos died, and many of them would have survived if not for the disinformation campaign against the Sinovac vaccine," former Philippine presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said on his social media.

Cho-Chiong Tan, a doctor and associate professor at the Institute of Medicine, Far Eastern University, said Reuters' report "shocked the whole Philippines."

"The malign action of the United States has seriously harmed the health of the Filipino people and hampered the Philippine efforts to fight against COVID-19," Tan said, adding that distrust and panic about vaccine safety caused some people to give up vaccination, increasing the risk of contracting the virus.

"The practices of the United States not only harmed the interests of the Filipino people, but also endangered global public health and the well-being of all mankind," he added.

"I don't think it's defensible. I'm extremely dismayed, disappointed and disillusioned to hear that the U.S. government would do that," said Daniel Lucey, an infectious disease specialist at Dartmouth's Geisel School of Medicine.

SAFE AND TRUSTED VACCINE

China has gained global recognition for its fight against the pandemic by providing Sinovac vaccines and other public goods to the world.

Studies have proved the immunogenicity and safety of Sinovac vaccines, said Sinovac spokeswoman Yuan Youwei, adding that the COVID-19 vaccine has been authorized for use in more than 60 countries, regions and international organizations.

The Sinovac vaccine is safe and effective at preventing severe disease and death from COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) told Xinhua in a written statement.

"Disinformation, or the manipulation of information with an intention to deceive and cause harm, is a major health threat today," the Geneva-based health body warned.

Ramy Pulayd, a 29-year-old Filipino, said he got two doses of China's Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine during that hard time.

When the virus caused widespread disruption across the Philippines, "China came and gave us a hand," he said, adding that his brother and sister were also vaccinated.

"We trust China and its vaccines are reliable," Pulayd said.

In fact, many countries, especially developing ones, welcomed Chinese vaccines during the pandemic. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic had personally awaited the delivery of the vaccine doses at Belgrade airport, expressing his gratitude to China.

Meanwhile, the United States did not lend a helping hand to developing countries when they were in urgent need of vaccines.

"We didn't do a good job sharing vaccines with partners," a senior U.S. military officer directly involved in the campaign was quoted as saying by Reuters. "So what was left to us was to throw shade on China's."

WASHINGTON'S GEOPOLITICAL MOTIVES EXPOSED

Many experts have pointed out that America attempts to maintain its hegemony and hinder China's development with false narratives, manipulation of public opinion, and countless lies. Its campaign to discredit China's vaccines was not based on scientific evidence but rather on geopolitical motives and strategic gains.

Anna Malindog-Uy, vice president of the Manila-based think tank Asian Century Philippines Strategic Studies Institute, told Xinhua that "Washington's covert operation undermining Beijing's efforts to assist the Philippines and the Filipino people in combating the COVID-19 pandemic raises significant ethical and strategic concerns and questions."

"Discrediting vaccines based on geopolitical motives rather than scientific evidence undermines the collective effort needed to combat a pandemic," the expert said.

The clandestine anti-China propaganda reveals "a willingness and deliberate actions on the part of the United States to manipulate public opinion and international relations for strategic and geopolitical gains," Malindog-Uy said, adding that the United States has also spread disinformation to defame China in other fields like the South China Sea, to sow discord between China and other countries.

"This is indeed a manifestation of the U.S. fixation on global hegemony," she said.

In fact, the disinformation campaign is not the first time Uncle Sam has resorted to dirty tricks. Reuters reported in March that former U.S. President Donald Trump authorized the Central Intelligence Agency in 2019 to launch a clandestine campaign on Chinese social media aimed at turning public opinion in China against its government.

The U.S. government is the biggest propagator of disinformation, said U.S. Republican Senator Rand Paul.

America's dirty moves come at a cost for the Philippines. Vaccination is of great importance to the health of millions of Filipinos and Reuters reported that the difficulty in vaccinating the population contributed to the worst death rate in the region.

For the sake of its selfish gains, Washington never hesitates to sacrifice an ally. As British American historian Bernard Lewis pointed out in his book "Notes on a Century: Reflections of a Middle East Historian," the real problem with having the Americans as allies is you never know when they will turn around and stab you in the back.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
Dennis received bachelor's degrees in communication and political science with a TAG degree in Spanish from The University of Akron in Ohio. He grew up in Ohio with two sisters and two brothers, one being his fraternal twin. He and his wife have two dogs: Bacio, and Cal. Dennis currently covers natural resource and environmental issues for The Daily Sentinel
Fri Friday

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Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the mid 80s and lows in the low 50s.
Just under a week ahead of Tuesdays statewide primary elections, Adam Frisch, the Democratic candidate for the 3rd Congressional Districts s
Deputy Secretary Campbell's Call with Philippine Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Lazaro

US Department of State

Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

June 17, 2024

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell spoke today with Philippine Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro. Deputy Secretary Campbell and Undersecretary Lazaro discussed shared concerns over the People's Republic of China's escalatory and irresponsible actions on June 17, which obstructed the Philippines from executing a lawful maritime operation in the South China Sea, interfering with the Philippines' freedom of navigation. The Deputy Secretary and Undersecretary agreed that the PRC's dangerous actions threatened regional peace and stability.

The Deputy Secretary reaffirmed that Article IV of the 1951 United States-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft - including those of its Coast Guard - anywhere in the South China Sea. Deputy Secretary Campbell and Undersecretary Lazaro further reiterated the critical importance of the United States-Philippines alliance to maintaining our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

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Remarks by President Biden and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg Before Bilateral Meeting

June 17, 2024

PRESIDENT BIDEN: Well, Mr. Secretary General, welcome back to the Oval Office.

I have to say ahead of time, I'm going to miss you. I'm going to miss you.

You know, I believe that this  this one of the most consequential moments for Europe since World War Two. I think you do too. NATO was founded 75 years ago, and it's  I think the lessons we've learned then and about standing together to defend and deter aggression have been consequential.

And we've made NATO  you  under your leader-  leadership, we made it larger, stronger, and it's more united than it's ever been. So, I want to thank you, Mr. Secretary General, for the incredible work you've done.

Together, we deterred further Russian aggression in Europe. I think we  well, I know we've welcomed Finland and Sweden to the Alliance. And we've strengthened NATO's eastern flank, making it clear that we'll defend every single inch of NATO territory.

And, Jens, we  a very important announcement to make today: A record number of Allies are meeting the NATO commitment to at least 2 percent of their GDP on defense. And, in fact, the number has more than doubled since we took office  since I took office.

And I look forward to building it all  on all this progress next month when we have the 75th meeting here in Washington.

And I look forward to our discussion today.

So, I want to thank you for being here. We got a lot to talk about. And I mean it sincerely, you've been great. I just wish you'd extend your term another 10 years.

You're doing a hell of a job, seriously.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: Thank you.

President Biden, dear Joe, thank you so much for your warm words  words. And thank you so much for your personal commitment to NATO, to our Transatlantic Alliance.

And, also, many thanks for hosting the NATO Summit here in Washington, D.C., next month. At that summit, we will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the most successful alliance in history, but we'll also make important decisions for the future  not least on the issue and the importance of investing in our security.

And today, we are able to publish new figures for defense spending. They show that, across Europe and Canada, NATO Allies are, this year, increasing defense spending by 18 percent. That's the biggest increase in decades. And 23 Allies are going to spend 2 percent of GDP or more on defense this year. That's more than twice as many as four years ago, and demonstrates that European Allies and Canada are really stepping up and taking their share of the common responsibility to protect all of us in the NATO Alliance.

It's also important for the United States to know that a lot of this money is actually spent here in the United States. Allies are buying more and more equipment from the U.S. So, NATO is good for U.S. security, but NATO is also good for U.S. jobs.

Mr. President, and also thank you for your strong leadership on Ukraine. And congratulations on the bilateral security agreement you signed with President Zelenskyy, with Ukraine.

European Allies are also stepping up and matching the U.S. contributions, military support to Ukraine. And I expect that when we meet here next month, we will agree to have NATO in the lead role in providing security assistance and training and also that Allies will agree to step up financial and military support to Ukraine. This will reduce the burden on the United States and strengthen our support to Ukraine.

I think it's important to understand that the stronger our support for Ukraine is, the sooner this war can end, because the sooner President Putin will realize that he cannot wait us out.

It is in  support Ukraine is not charity. Support Ukraine is in our own security interest. And therefore, I welcome the strong commitment of all NATO Allies to continue to support Ukraine.

So, once again, thank you so much. Thank you for once again hosting me  me here in the Oval Office. And I look very much forward to the NATO summit in Washington, D.C., next month.

Thank you.

PRESIDENT BIDEN: Thank you, pal.

Thank you very much, everyone.

(Cross-talk.)

PRESIDENT BIDEN: (Inaudible.) (Laughs.)

4:18 P.M. EDT

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Statement regarding recent incidents in the South China Sea

Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

18 June 2024

Category: International relations

The Australian Government expresses its grave concern at, and stands by the Philippines in its response to, the dangerous and illegal actions by China's vessels against Philippine vessels and crew taking part in a routine mission to Second Thomas Shoal, within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone, on 17 June.

China's vessels engaged in dangerous manoeuvres and illegal conduct, including the ramming of Philippine vessels, resulting in injury to crew and damage to Philippine vessels. The Australian Government is deeply concerned by reports of the forcible boarding and towing of Philippine vessels and the seizure of equipment.

This is an escalation in a pattern of deeply concerning and destabilising behaviour by China. This conduct endangers peace and security in the region, threatens lives and livelihoods, and creates risks of miscalculation and escalation.

All states have a responsibility to adhere to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which is essential to peace and stability, including in the South China Sea.



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Canada condemns actions by People's Republic of China against Philippine vessels in South China Sea

Global Affairs Canada

Statement

June 18, 2024 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Today, Global Affairs Canada issued the following statement on actions taken by the People's Republic of China against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea:

"Canada condemns the dangerous and destabilizing actions taken by the People's Republic of China (PRC) against Philippine vessels on June 17, 2024, near Second Thomas Shoal. The PRC's use of water cannons, dangerous maneuvers and ramming of Philippine vessels is inconsistent with the PRC's obligations under international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea [UNCLOS].

"Furthermore, reports of boarding and towing of Philippine vessels by the PRC are deeply concerning. These actions jeopardize regional peace, stability and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific.

"The rules-based order, including the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, is vital and must be maintained.

"Canada opposes escalatory and coercive actions, including the unilateral declaration of authority over disputed features. Disputes must be resolved through dialogue rather than through force or coercion.

"We call upon the PRC to comply with its obligations, including implementation of the 2016 UNCLOS arbitral tribunal ruling, which is binding on the parties."

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June 18, 2024

Transcript

Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder Holds a Press Briefing

Major General Pat Ryder, Pentagon Press Secretary

MAJOR GENERAL PAT RYDER: All right, good afternoon, everyone. Good to be back in the briefing room after several weeks of travel. Just a few things at the top, and then we'll get right to your questions.

On Friday, Secretary Austin concluded a productive trip to Brussels, where he hosted the 23rd session of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on June 13, followed by his participation in the NATO Defense Ministerial on June 14.

The UDCG once again brought together representatives from over 50 countries to discuss and coordinate security assistance for Ukraine as they continue to defend against Russian aggression. The meeting underscored the continued commitment, unity and resolve of allies and partners to help bolster Ukraine's defense infrastructure and support its sovereignty both in the near and long term.

The subsequent NATO Defense Ministerial afforded NATO allies the opportunity to discuss several critical issues, including enhanced support for Ukraine, strengthening NATO's deterrence and defense capabilities and preparation for the upcoming NATO Summit in Washington. During the ministerial, NATO defense ministers reaffirmed their commitment to providing sustained military assistance to Ukraine.

The ministerial was the last major milestone prior to the upcoming NATO 75th Anniversary Summit, which is scheduled for here in Washington, D.C. from July 9-11. Notably, the summit will bring together leaders and defense ministers from all 32 NATO member countries to commemorate our enduring alliance and address critical global security challenges.

The summit will also underscore our unwavering mutual commitment to collective defense, transatlantic unity and ongoing support for Ukraine. We'll have much more to provide about the summit in the near future.

Shifting gears, on June 9, Marines with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed AV-8B Harrier jets, MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft and personnel to Ronneby Airport in Kallinge, Sweden, for Exercise Baltops '24.

The detachment, part of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365, demonstrates the ability to project force over 900 nautical miles and establish a forward operating base, enhancing combined response capability and interoperability in the Baltic Sea region. For more information on Exercise Baltops '24, please contact U.S. Marine Corps Public Affairs.

And finally, the department announced today at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, a first-of-its-kind partnership with Duke Energy to power five major military installations in North and South Carolina with solar electricity.

Through this procurement, Duke Energy will provide carbon-free electricity to five major military installations in North and South Carolina, including U.S. Army Fort Liberty, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina and Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina.

The contract, valued at $248 million, will provide an estimated 4.8 million MWh of carbon-free energy over a 15-year delivery period from two newly-constructed off-site solar facilities in South Carolina. By supporting the construction of new clean renewable energy, we're enhancing our resilience in support of the warfighter and DOD mission. For additional information about this unique initiative, I'd refer you to Fort Liberty Public Affairs.

With that, be happy to take your questions. I see AP is out of the room today, so we'll go ahead and start with Liz here. Put you on the spot.

Q: Great. I guess just to follow up on the continued Houthi attacks, a mariner was killed. A different mariner was critically injured. You know, what is the Pentagon, what is CENTCOM going to do differently to prevent these from happening?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, thanks. So again, you know, we're very focused on ensuring that these kinds of attacks are degraded, that the Houthis will continue to understand that there's going to be a price to be paid for essentially preventing freedom of navigation in this vital international waterway, and it's just completely unacceptable.

So again, we continue to work very closely with partners in the region to provide capabilities to safeguard maritime travel through the Red Sea and elsewhere, and we'll continue to stay very focused on that.

Q: On a separate topic, last week in Brussels, Secretary Austin called on more NATO countries to up their defense spending. What specifically is the U.S. doing to, you know, get that to happen, to have these other countries just spend more on their defenses?

GEN. RYDER: Well, I think you've seen, you know, not only Secretary Austin, but the secretary-general of NATO has talked about this. You know, it's very important that we, as NATO allies, all contribute to our collective defense.

And I won't speak for individual nations and I think the secretary's words on this speak for itself  other than to say that we all have a vested interest in making sure a strong, secure NATO, and I think what you continue to see our NATO allies stepping up to do that. So I'm confident that will continue to be a topic of discussion, to include at the upcoming summit.

Carla?

Q: Thanks. Who does the Pentagon assess to be the current global leader of the Islamic State? There's been some confusion about that recently.

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, I mean, you know, I'm sure you're tracking that ISIS declared last year that Abu Hafs al-Hashimi al-Qurashi is its fifth leader. You know they run a succession of leaders. Doesn't seem to be a long life expectancy these days.

So, you know, not a lot of information out there publicly available, but again, you know, I'm sure you could reach out to DNI and they could help you deep dive on that.

Q: Also, to follow up on Ukraine and F-16s, how many pilots does the U.S. and its allies in the UDCG expect to be ready to fly F-16s this summer?

GEN. RYDER: So that's really a question that's best addressed by Ukraine. You know, they should be the ones to talk about pilot management in terms of the overall size of their fleet, their overall size of their pilot cadre, and what their expectations are in terms of how they're going to implement that program.

Our focus is on working with the air capability coalition to identify what their requirements are and then meeting those requirements. And as you know, training being conducted both in Arizona and in Denmark. There's the capacity to conduct additional training at other locations, you know, that are being prepared in Europe, because again, this will be a long-term proposition in terms of supporting them through the air capability coalition. Thanks.

Tom?

Q: Pat, any update on the Gaza pier, when it'll be up and running again? And also, with the airdrops, when do you expect them to resume?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, in terms of the JLOTS, we expect it will go operational again this week, and I don't have a specific date to give you right now but of course we'll keep you posted on that.

As far as airdrops go, we do have the capability and do intend to continue conducting airdrops. So again, as those happen, CENTCOM will post them.

Q: ... airdrops?

GEN. RYDER: There is no holdup, per se. There's always going to be a variety of factors to take into account, to include the conditions on the ground, the weather. And so, you know, very similar to the pier, you've got to take a variety of factors into account when making those decisions.

But again, you know, kind of  you didn't ask this  but to your point, this is a multifaceted effort to get aid into Gaza. Whether it be via land, air, or sea, we're going to continue to do what we need to do to make that happen. Thank you.

Lara? And then I'll go to this side of the room, I promise.

Q: Thank you. So the New York Times just reported, based on aid groups, saying that the pier could be dismantled as early as this coming month, in July. Is that accurate?

GEN. RYDER: Look, we've said all along, first of all, that the pier is a temporary measure. I don't have any dates to announce, in terms of when it will cease operations. Of course, as I just mentioned, we're looking forward to getting it operational again soon and to delivering aid. And, you know, we're going to capitalize on the conditions, you know, in terms of weather, to get as much aid across that pier as we can.

Q: Is there a delay in getting the pier back operational now, or is it not repaired?

GEN. RYDER: Well, as you know, it went to Ashdod to get repaired, and I just said again it's going to get  we expect that it will go operational again this week.

Q: And then I just wanted to ask you to see if you confirmed the reports last week that the U.S. is sending an additional Patriot to Ukraine from Poland?

GEN. RYDER: Again, I don't have anything to announce in terms of additional Patriots for Ukraine. As you saw Secretary Austin say at the Contact Group and during the NATO defense ministerials, air defense continues to be a high priority for Ukraine, and we're going to continue to work closely with allies and partners to ensure they have what they need to defend their people.

OK, yes, sir?

Q: Yeah, thank you, General. My question on Iraq and HMC meeting with the Iraqi government of HMC meetings, High Military Commission meetings, to discuss about the future of U.S.-led global coalition in Iraq.

It's been six months passed, and do you have any updates for me  well, where are you in these meetings? Have you gotten any decision about the future of the U.S.-led global coalition in Iraq and the U.S. military presence?

GEN. RYDER: As I understand it, so far, the working groups continue to meet. Within the coming weeks, my understanding is that participants intend to have another principals meeting, where coalition leaders will receive a progress update, but as of right now, I don't have anything additional to pass along.

Q: ... any deadline for these meetings?

GEN. RYDER: Not that I'm aware of, but again, I mean, obviously the groups are coming together to talk about very important things, to include, you know, one, what is the current threat that ISIS poses, what is the operating environment, and looking at Iraqi Security Forces' capabilities.

And so again, I think understanding that this is a very important discussion and a very important set of meetings, they're going to continue to stay focused on making progress in that regard, but I just don't want to get ahead of it and speculate on when specifically they will be ready to make any type of announcements.

Yes, sir?

Q: Thank you, General. Several official sources report that it is important the U.S. continue to corroborate with international coalition forces, the Peshmerga and the Iraqi Army to prevent the reorganization of ISIS. What is your comment on this?

GEN. RYDER: Well, you know, look, the Iraqi Security Forces, to include Peshmerga, have had significant impact on ISIS's ability to conduct the kind of terror operations that we saw, you know, a decade ago. And so that's a real testament to the capabilities and the effectiveness of these forces working together in the region.

So, you know, kind of related to your colleague's question there, we're going to continue to work closely with the Iraqi government and other partners in the region, to include the Peshmerga, when it comes to what is the ISIS threat, what do we need to do to ensure that it can't resurge in the way that we had seen it do earlier, and make sure that, at the same time, that our partners have the capabilities that they need to be able to ensure that ISIS doesn't come back, the enduring defeat of ISIS. Thank you.

Let me go to the phone here real quick. Dan Lamothe, Washington Post?

Q: Thanks, General, appreciate your time. On these Houthis attacks, we've had a number of discussions this year about interdiction. Clearly, weapons are still getting in, clearly that remains a challenge. Is there anything more that the Pentagon, the U.S. military can do there to get after that problem?

And then relatedly, earlier this year, we saw a number of kind of large wave attacks by the U.S. military and allies on the Houthis. In light of these attacks over the last several days, at least one of which was deadly, is there reason we haven't seen something similar of late? Thanks.

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, thanks, Dan. So a few things. You know, so first of all, again, keeping in mind what we're focused on here, which is safety and freedom of navigation when it comes to this vital waterway, the Red Sea, through which 10 to 15 percent of international commerce traverses  and so that is something that we're going to continue to stay focused on.

And in terms of Houthi strikes, I think, yes, you know, it is incredibly unfortunate that some of these strikes have struck vessels as recently as this week, as you saw, or over this weekend.

And it's also important to highlight the impact that U.S. and international forces have had in terms of thwarting many of these attacks and safeguarding shipping and the lives of mariners. And so, we're going to continue to stay focused on that.

As you highlight, this is a whole of government effort in terms of looking at other levers by which we can compel the Houthis to stop. But our primary focus is on degrading and disrupting their ability to conduct these kinds of attacks.

And in terms of other things that can be done, you know, I think that continuing to put the spotlight from various groups to include the media into the impacts that Yemen's attacks are having on its own citizens in terms of their economic, environmental and health, as well as those, their neighbors in the region, you know, would shed some additional context and perspective in terms of the fact that these strikes are not in any way contributing to supporting the Palestinian people, that are in fact acts of terrorism, that are, if anything, making life worse for the average Yemeni and the people that live in the region.

If you want to talk about people doing things to help the Palestinians, look at the amount of aid that's going into Gaza and all we see the Houthis doing are launching missiles and trying to kill innocent mariners.

All right, let me go to Phil Stewart, Reuters.

Q: Thanks. I'd like to get your reaction to Russian President Putin's visit to North Korea where he pledged invariable support for Pyongyang. Victor Cha said this deepening Russia-North Korea relationship poses the greatest threat to U.S. national security since the Korean War. Is he right?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, thanks, Phil. Again, you know, we're aware of the upcoming visit both to Pyongyang and Hanoi. And you've heard others say this too. The deepening cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is something that should be of concern, especially to anyone that's interested in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, but also supporting the people of Ukraine as they continue to fight against Russian aggression.

And so, of course, you know, you're well aware of DPRK providing ammunition and weapons to Russia that's been able to help them perpetuate their illegal and unprovoked war against the Ukrainian people.

So, it's something that we're going to continue to keep an eye on. I would say though, taking a step back, our focus when it comes to the Indo-Pacific region and the Korean Peninsula is on working with allies and partners to promote peace, stability, and security in the region, and that will continue to be our focus.

Thank you.

Q: I just want to add that issue of Putin visit to North Korea. He already in Pyongyang right now. At the meeting between President Putin and Kim Jong-un, the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement was signed between North Korea and Russia. In particular, it is known that a strengthening military cooperation, including automatic military intervention in case of emergency, will be discussed.

What impact do you think this will have on security and the peace on the Korean Peninsula as well as in Ukraine?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, well, I'm not going to comment on specific agreements between Russia and the DPRK other than to say our focus continues to be on promoting regional security and stability in the region as well as our extended deterrence efforts as it comes to supporting our ROK and Japanese allies. And so, I'll just leave it at that.

Q: One more thing. (Inaudible) comment of the U.S. and ROK combined the forces command, put the (inaudible) on the South Korean government loud speaker test against the North Korea. And South Korean government stated that resumption of loud speaker broadcasting was self-defense responses to North Korea garbage balloon provocations.

What is the Pentagon's assessment from these provocations?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, so I'd  I'd have to refer you to USFJ to respond to that. I just don't have any insight to provide on that.

Q: Yeah, that's (inaudible) North Korea can provocative to South Korea, but South Korea cannot (be) provocative?

GEN. RYDER: Again, you're asking me a question about an order that or a request that General LaCamera made. I'd refer you back to (USFK) for any details on that. Again, I think it's very clear that the United States and ROK are working very closely together when it comes to addressing security concerns and threats on the Korean peninsula.

We obviously have a longstanding alliance and we continue to deepen that alliance, all focused on making sure that the people of South Korea as well as the broader Indo-Pacific region can be assured of peace and security in the region.

So again, I'd refer you to USFJ or USFK for additional details. Let me go to Luis here.

Q: There are claims, well there's a statement today by Prime Minister Netanyahu that the United States has not been providing weapons and munitions to Israel recently and he called the United States to resume that.

Is that the case, I think publicly the administration has acknowledged the 2,000-pound bombs with regards to Rafah, but has there been a slowdown? Has there been a delay? Is there a production issue? What exactly is Prime Minister talking about?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, thanks, Luis. So, I won't comment on the Prime Minister's remarks themselves. As you've heard us say, we're absolutely committed to continuing to support Israel's inherent right to defend itself since Hamas's vicious attack on October 7th, we've rushed billions of dollars of security assistance to Israel to enable them to defend themselves and we're going to continue to provide them with the security assistance they need again for defense.

Now we've paused one shipment of high payload unguided munitions. There's not been a final determination at this time on how to proceed with that shipment. As you've heard us say previously, there are concerns about the use of these munitions in a dense urban setting like Rafah and we've been very clear with the Israelis about the steps that they must take to be effective in this fight. So, I'm just going to leave it at that.

Q: So, in other words, when you talked about rushing aid to Israel, that rushing aid continues?

GEN. RYDER: We continue to support Israel with security assistance and their ability to defend themselves. As I mentioned, we paused one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs, unguided bombs.

Q: I have a question about the New York Times report about the pier.

GEN. RYDER: Sure.

Q: Can you confirm that military officials have told aid organizations that potentially the pier, the JLOT's Trident Pier, may be dismantled next month?

GEN. RYDER: I'm not tracking any established timeline at this point, in terms of when the pier will stop operating, again with the caveat that this was always intended to be a temporary pier. I'm not aware at this point of any established date of this is when we're going to stop.

And again, taking a step back here, the big picture, whether it be by land, sea, or air, employing all avenues to get assistance into Gaza  I mean, when you just think for a second, you know, since the pier was put in place about a month ago, we've been able to shuttle over 3,500 metric tons, or 7.7 million pounds, of aid onto the shore in Gaza via this temporary pier.

And we're going to continue to work very closely with aid groups, with the UN, with the Israelis and other regional partners to look at ways to get additional aid in to the Palestinians, to include via this maritime corridor.

So again, when we have anything new to announce, we certainly will, but as of right now, that's where we're at.

David?

Q: You mentioned the shipment of 2,000-pound bombs. Included in that shipment were also an even larger number, I think, of 500-pound bombs. Have the 500-pound bombs in that suspended shipment been released to go to Israel?

GEN. RYDER: Not to my knowledge. It's all part of one shipment that has been suspended, again, pending further discussion.

OK, Fadi?

Q: Thank you, General. On the Rafah, have your Israeli counterparts notified you that the invasion of Rafah is ending soon?

GEN. RYDER: I'm not  so first of all, what I'm tracking right now in Rafah is we still continue to see Israel along the Philadelphi line. They continue to conduct some limited operations into Rafah to go after Hamas units and leaders.

We have not seen a large-scale  you used the word "invasion"  we've not seen a large-scale ground operation at this point. We're continuing to monitor that. Again, we've been very clear about what our expectations are in terms of safeguarding civilians.

I do know that a significant number of civilians have relocated to elsewhere in Gaza. That said, this continues to be a topic of discussion between our leadership and Israeli leaders when it comes to conducting operations, both within Rafah but also throughout Gaza.

Q: And last week, I asked you about the civilian toll from the Nuseirat operation that Israel conducted to rescue four hostages. This happened with U.S. support, intelligence, and logistics, as Sullivan acknowledged.

Have you looked into the number of civilians that were killed during the operation, while noting that the Secretary, yourself, and the department have expressed many times concern about the human toll because of the Israeli operations?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, I don't have any updates to provide in terms of estimated civilian casualties, other than, again, we do know that there were civilian casualties as a part of that operation. I think the last time we spoke and this hasn't changed  we continue to see two different numbers being put out by the Israelis versus Hamas. I don't know what the facts are, other than there's an acknowledgment that there were civilian casualties as part of that operation.

But again, in all of our discussions, we continue to expect and encourage the Israelis to take civilian casualties into account, again recognizing also what we talked about last time, was the fact that this was a hostage rescue, that you have civilians  or you have hostages being held among the civilian population by an armed terrorist group, Hamas, certainly exacerbating the tensions and the challenging situation here.

So we're going to continue to expect civilian casualties to be taken into account, civilian harm mitigation to be taken into account going forward. No one wants to see any innocent civilians killed in this crossfire, whether they be Palestinians or Israelis.

Q: ...But this is an operation that the U.S. supported with logistics and intelligence, and it led to high civilian casualties, according to local authorities in Gaza, more than 280. And as a matter of fact, you've been expressing concern about civilian casualties.

Doesn't this require a look from the department into what actually happened, since you will  as well vowing  to keep supporting Israel in its efforts to rescue the captives or hostages?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah  and just to clarify here, again, the U.S. was not a part of this military operation. We were not militarily involved, we did not have forces that participated. And again, broadly speaking, when it comes to Israel's hostage recovery efforts, we've said that we are supportive in terms of providing intelligence information, but when it comes to this specific operation, again, we were not involved in conducting or executing or planning this particular operation.

Q: ... supported the operation.

GEN. RYDER: Well, we support Israel's inherent right to defend itself against Hamas. And again, we've recognized and acknowledged that way too many civilians have died in this conflict, and we're going to continue to encourage and expect our Israeli partners to take civilian harm into account as they're conducting the operations. I'll just leave it at that.

Let me get to some other folks here. Yep?

Q: Hi. About the Fort Liberty and other Carolina forts getting the solar factories  or solar farms, as part of the Biden administration executive order that's planning for 100 percent clean energy to power up the federal government by 2030, what percent of the way to 100 percent is the Defense Department?

And in terms of the costs of this solar  these solar farms that power the bases, is it better financially for the department to use the solar power rather than, you know, go the traditional forms of energy?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, let me take that question and we'll come back to you.

OK, yes?

Q: On the collision between a Chinese vessel and the Philippines supply ship near the Second Thomas Shoal on Monday, there's some reports that at least eight of the Filipino sailors were injured and one of them was severely injured. So what's the Pentagon's assessment on this collision on Monday? And how much are you worried about the escalation of tensions between Philippines and China?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, so obviously very concerning reports. You know, in terms of the specifics as it relates to the Filipino sailors, I'd refer you to the Philippine government for additional details, but  and you've heard others within the U.S. government say this  this kind of behavior is provocative, it's reckless, it's unnecessary, and as you highlight, it could lead to something bigger and more violent.

And so we are going to continue to stand with our Philippine allies. We condemn the escalatory and irresponsible actions by the PRC to deny the Philippines from executing a lawful maritime operation in the South China Sea. And as you've heard Secretary Austin and others say, the Philippines' rightful, legal maritime claims must be protected.

Time for a few more. Yes, sir?

Q: Thank you, General. Regarding to the escalation in the south of Lebanon. So do you still have concerns that this war could be, expand between Hezbollah and Israel. Even if there is no deal for a ceasefire deal, do you believe that deescalate could happen very soon? And do you still believe that Hezbollah will not jump in this war?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, we do remain concerned about tensions along the border on. And of course, we continue to encourage a diplomatic solution. Preventing a wider regional conflict has been a primary focus for this department and the U.S. government writ large since Hamas's attack on October 7th.

And as you've heard, Secretary Austin say, we're going to continue to work toward that end. So, just leave it there.

Q: I'm sorry, another one. Today, Hezbollah published a video of what it says, it was a footage gathered from its monitoring the drone, including the city of Haifa's sea and airport. Some sensitive locations inside Israel.

Have you seen that video and do you have any comment about that?

GEN. RYDER: I have not seen that video, so I'm just not able to comment.

Let me do a couple more from the phone here. I'm going to go to Mike from Washington Times.

Q: Hi, thanks Pat. I was wondering if the Pentagon has a definition of strategic success for Operation Prosperity Guardian and the other mission there in the Red Sea area. I know you're shooting down a lot of drones and striking a few targets occasionally inside Yemen, but commercial ship traffic through the region has not increased appreciably since it began. You know, playing Houthi whack-a-mole isn't the objective here.

So, what actually is the objective where you say we have succeeded?

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, thanks, Mike. So, you know, let me just kind of turn this around a little bit here because, you know, there's a, this discussion about, you know, has deterrence failed? What is it that you're trying to achieve here? And it's what I talked about earlier, right? It's about preserving freedom of navigation in this vital waterway.

And I would say that really, it's the Houthis that have failed to deter the United States and the international community from continuing to operate in the Red Sea. You know, they've conducted over 190 attacks, the vast majority of which have been knocked down, thanks to U. S. and international efforts to help safeguard shipping and the lives of Mariners through operations like Operation Prosperity Guardian.

And additionally, as I mentioned before, the Houthis have been all over the map in terms of their purported rationale for conducting these strikes versus the reality of their actual operations and the impact. Whereas we've been, again, very clear why we're there, which is safety and freedom of navigation in this vitally important waterway.

So strategic success looks like the ability of the international community to continue to transit the Red Sea. And we're going to keep after it. Thanks.

All right. Let me go to JJ Green, WTOP.

Q: Thanks, General. Reuters is reporting right now that Israeli defense forces have approved operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon. And this is one of the things, the three things that the U. S. military was trying to prevent when it was sent there, the expanded forces were sent there. Any thoughts about that?

And then secondly, the Russian flotilla has moved away from Cuba and moved on to someplace else. Can you share about what you learned about what they were doing there and keeping tabs on them now, where they may be going, where may they be going?

Thank you.

GEN. RYDER: Yeah, thanks, JJ. Again, when it comes to the situation along the Israel-Lebanon border again, our focus is on working with partners in the region to include Israel, obviously, to encourage a diplomatic resolution. So, I'm not going to get into hypotheticals or speculate on what might happen other than to say no one wants to see a wider regional war. And again, we'll stay focused on that.

As it relates to any Russian naval activity, you know, near Cuba. Look, I'll refer you to the Russian MOD or Navy to talk about their current operations. As you know, and as you've heard us say we obviously closely monitored, don't see any threat to the homeland and, and these types of exercises are not new. We've seen them take place, you know, over the years.

So again, nothing concerning from our standpoint, but we'll, again, continue to monitor.

OK, I can do a couple more. Yes, ma'am.

Q: So earlier today, Taiwan's Defense Minister Koo said that they should expect the delivery of the 2B anti-tank missiles and 100 launch purchase missiles by the end of this year. Number one, why is it taking this long? Why is it there a two-year delay?

GEN. RYDER: Look, I don't have any specifics to provide in terms of aid deliveries to Taiwan other than to say, again, in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act we will continue to work with Taiwan to ensure they have the capabilities that they need to defend themselves.

And let me go ahead and go to Carla here.

Q: Follow-up to Luis' question. You know, the U.S. paused one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel. Since then, how many security packages has the U.S. military provided Israel?

GEN. RYDER: I don't have any statistics to pass along, Carla, other than to say again, you know, from the outset of Hamas attack on Israel we have worked closely to ensure that they have security assistance they need to defend themselves.

Q: There have been additional packages since then.

GEN. RYDER: Correct.

Q: OK.

GEN. RYDER: Yeah.

Q: And then to follow up what you said to me, you said that the liberal leader of ISIS, he doesn't seem to have a long-life expectancy. Can you confirm that the U.S. military targeted the global leader of ISIS on a strike on May 31st?

GEN. RYDER: You know, there was  I would just point you back to AFRICOM's statement. I don't have anything additional to provide at this point. Of course, if there's updates, we'll be sure to let you know.

OK. Thanks very much, everybody. Appreciate it.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3811490/

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June 18, 2024

Release

Readout of Senior Defense Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs Leader's Trip to Adaptive Shield Exercise, Republic of Korea and Japan

DOD Spokesperson Robert L. Ditchey II provided the following readout:

Dr. Brandi Vann, Performing the Duties of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs visited critical allies and partners in the Republic of Korea (ROK) and Japan from June 5-12, 2024.

While in the ROK Dr Vann met with GEN LaCamera, Commander, US Forces Korea to discuss defense capabilities on the Korean Peninsula. She also hosted the Adaptative Shield 2024 Senior Leader Seminar where she and senior leaders from across the United States and ROK governments were briefed on the findings from the Adaptive Shield exercise. Adaptive Shield is a tabletop exercise between U.S. Forces Korea and the Republic of Korea aimed at strengthening combined chemical and biological defense capabilities. The exercise this year focused on key training reforms in the 2023 Biodefense Posture Review, and on increased interoperability in providing early warning and rapidly responding to biothreats to mitigate their impact on USFK and ROK combined forces. Adaptive Shield 2024 also produced tangible actions to continue strengthening biodefense capabilities.

Dr. Vann next traveled to Japan to meet with senior leaders from US Forces Japan, Japan's Ministry of Defense (JMOD), Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency (ATLA), National Defense Medical College (NDMC), and the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) Chemical School. The conversations with JMOD, ATLA, and NDMC focused on the Department's 2023 Biodefense Posture Review and implementing biodefense reforms, and CBRN defense capabilities and interoperability. CBRN defense capability and interoperability were also discussed with the JGSDF Chemical School.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3810946/

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June 18, 2024

By C. Todd Lopez, DOD News

Gaza Pier Expected to Reopen This Week

The temporary pier that's been used since May 17 to deliver humanitarian aid into Gaza was removed Friday and towed to Ashdod, Israel, as a way to avoid potential damage from high seas. It's expected the pier will be back in place on the Mediterranean Sea this week to once again facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

"In terms of the [Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore pier], we expect it will go operational again this week," Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said during a briefing today. "As far as airdrops go, we do have the capability and do intend to continue conducting airdrops."

While the Defense Department has said that the Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore floating pier, referred to as the "Trident Pier" or "the causeway," is a temporary piece of infrastructure and that there are better ways to get aid into Gaza, Ryder said there is no indication right now that there are plans to stop using the pier to deliver aid.

"We've said all along ... that the pier is a temporary measure," he said. "I don't have any dates to announce in terms of when it will cease operations ... we're looking forward to getting it operational again soon and to delivering aid."

The pier was anchored to the Gaza shore on May 16 and since then, due to weather, has experienced both damage and temporary shutdowns.

Nevertheless, the pier has delivered a substantial amount of aid into Gaza, Ryder said.

"The big picture, whether it be by land, sea or air, [we're] employing all avenues to get assistance into Gaza," he said. "Since the pier was put in place about a month ago, we've been able to shuttle over 3,500 metric tons, or 7.7 million pounds of aid onto the shore in Gaza, via this temporary pier."

The general added that the U.S would continue to work with aid groups, the United Nations, the Israelis and other partners to find ways to get additional aid into Gaza.

Independent of the floating pier, U.S. Central Command has worked both on its own and in partnership with the Royal Jordanian Air Force, since March, to conduct humanitarian airdrops of aid into Gaza.

Since that time, Centcom has been involved in nearly 40 such missions into Gaza to deliver, among other things, more than 1,050 metric tons of bulk food, water and prepared meals.

The last such humanitarian air drop took place June 9, when a U.S. C-130 dropped more than 10 metric tons of "meals ready to eat"  packaged meals  into Northern Gaza.

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June 18, 2024

By David Vergun, DOD News

Military Leaders Urge Congress to Pass Timely 2025 Defense Budget

The 2025 Defense Department budget request prioritizes maintaining operational readiness, taking care of people and continuing to build a joint force that is lethal, resilient, survivable, agile and responsive, said Army Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, in prepared remarks before a Senate subcommittee.

Hokanson and others testified today before the Senate Appropriations Committee's defense subcommittee hearing on the National Guard and Reserve budget.

The general's statement emphasized the importance of passing the budget on time and avoiding continuing resolutions, which reduce buying power and negatively impact readiness and modernization.

"If we fail to modernize our equipment and force design adequately, we increase the risk of sending America's sons and daughters into large-scale combat operations with equipment and formations that may not be fully interoperable with the active duty forces we serve alongside," he said in written testimony.

Last year, the National Guard conducted peacekeeping missions, homeland defense operations and training exercises. Guardsmen also responded to disasters, saving 476 lives, he said in the statement.

Army Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels, chief of Army Reserve, said in prepared testimony that the Army Reserve comprises 175,424 soldiers and 12,200 civilians, with units in all 50 states, five U.S. territories, Germany, South Korea and Japan.

The Army Reserve is "fiscally efficient," supporting the total force with just 16% of reservists serving as full-time support, she said in her statement.

Making up nearly 20% of the Army's total personnel, the Army Reserve provides critical skillsets and capabilities at a cost of just 6% of the total Army budget, Daniels said in prepared testimony.

"The joint force cannot deploy, fight and win without the Army Reserve," she said in her written statement.

The Army Reserve requires consistent, adequate and predictable funding to maintain critical operational capabilities, the general said in her statement.

In prepared testimony, Navy Vice Adm. John Mustin, chief of Navy Reserve, said the Navy Reserve has about 60,000 sailors, nearly 150 aircraft, two SEAL teams, three expeditionary medical facilities, and almost half of the Navy's expeditionary combat command and intelligence capability.

Of the 60,000, 15,000 are on active duty, Mustin said in his statement.

Timely, predictable and relevant funding from Congress enables the Navy Reserve to deliver this strategic depth and meet operational mission requirements, Mustin said in his prepared testimony.

Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Leonard F. Anderson IV, commander of the Marine Corps Reserve, said in prepared testimony that with the rise of new threats and the evolving nature of warfare, the Marine Corps Reserve is ready and able to adapt and compete in this environment.

"Our commitment to readiness is unwavering," he said in his statement.

Anderson noted that the Marine Corps Reserve has 158 Reserve Training Centers in 47 states, Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico.

Air Force Lt. Gen. John P. Healy, chief of the Air Force Reserve, said in his statement that there are 69,600 people in the Air Force Reserve, with 74% serving part-time.

The Air Force Reserve budget request is crafted to ensure interoperability with the joint force and continuation of weapon systems modernization, he said.

All five leaders spoke at length about the importance of innovation, taking care of their people and families and improving talent management.

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NB8 statement on Human Rights Situation in Afghanistan, delivered by Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland

Statements, 18.6.2024

Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Elina Valtonen delivered the Nordic-Baltic statement at the 56th Session of the UN Human Rights Council on 18 June 2024.

Mr. President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries. We thank the Special Rapporteur for the report, which gives impartial information and contributes to accountability.

The de facto authorities' institutionalized system of discrimination, segregation and exclusion of women and girls in Afghanistan is increasingly alarming. It has severe social and economic consequences, causes trauma, suicide and loss of life. It may affect security beyond the country's borders. This institutionalised system of gender oppression may amount to gender persecution. Afghanistan remains a party to several international conventions.

Despite severe limitations, you, women and girls of Afghanistan, with immense courage and determination, contribute as active agents to the wellbeing of the Afghan society and families. This deserves the full recognition of the international community.

Mr. Special Rapporteur, how can the international community work to support full, equal and meaningful participation of women in deliberations about Afghanistan's future?

Thank you.

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NATO defence ministers support objectives of Finland's NATO integration

Finnish Ministry of Defence

At their meeting of 14 June 2024, NATO defence ministers gave their political backing to establishing Multi Corps Land Component Command (MCLCC) and the presence of Forward Land Forces (FLF) in Finland.

"We started planning our NATO objectives last year with a view to maximising Finland's security. During the winter and spring, we actively promoted our objectives at ministerial and commander level and in various NATO institutions. I am particularly pleased that today all NATO countries have given their political backing to Finland's objectives. Finland's NATO integration is moving in a positive and favourable direction for us," says Minister of Defence Antti Hakkanen.

Finland's objectives were based on an evaluation of how NATO's deterrence and defence could be developed to cover the Alliance's new areas of responsibility in Finland and Sweden.

"These decisions will strengthen Finland's security. Combined with our strong national capabilities, NATO's Multi Corps Land Component Command and the presence of the Forward Land Forces, which will be scaled according to the security situation, will create a very strong deterrent and defence for Northern Europe, for the Baltic Sea region and, therefore, for the whole of NATO," Minister of Defence Hakkanen says.

In addition, the Allied defence ministers gave their political backing to organising Finland and the other Nordic countries under Joint Force Command Norfolk.

"Having the Nordic countries fall under Joint Force Command Norfolk received political support. We are pleased that within a year of the Vilnius Summit we have made significant progress. NATO takes the defence of all its Allies seriously, and this decision will strengthen the deterrence and defence of the whole Alliance," says Minister Hakkanen.

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US urged to recognize anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group: Chinese FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Jun 18, 2024 09:23 PM Updated: Jun 18, 2024 11:00 PM

China is gravely concerned about the relevant reports that the US lawmakers plan to meet with the 14th Dalai Lama and urges the US side to fully recognize the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honor the commitments the US has made to China on issues related to Xizang, have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday.

Lin made the remarks following the media reports that House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul will lead a US congressional delegation to India in the coming days, where he and other lawmakers, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, plan to meet Dalai Lama.

It's known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a pure religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion, Lin said. Over the years, the 14th Dalai Lama and his supporters have continued attempts to promote "Xizang independence" by provoking incidents that jeopardize peace and stability in Xizang, according to a white paper released by the State Council Information Office in 2021.

The US legislation is also pushing a Xizang-related bill with US President Joe Biden expected to sign it into law, according to media reports.

On the relevant act in the US congress, let me stress that Xizang has always been part of China since ancient times. Xizang's affairs are purely China's domestic affairs and no external interference will ever be allowed. Xizang today enjoys social stability and harmony, with sound economic performance and people's well-being well protected. Xizang keeps making fresh progress in effectively running its society and achieving high-quality development. No one and no force should ever attempt to destabilize Xizang to contain and suppress China. Such attempts will never succeed, said the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson.

China urges the US side to adhere to its commitments of recognizing Xizang as part of China and not supporting "Xizang independence." The US must not sign the bill into law. China will take resolute measures to firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests, said the spokesperson.

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Speech by Minister for Defence Pal Jonson in Manila

Government Offices of Sweden

18 June 2024

Speech by Minister for Defence Pal Jonson at the Swedish National Day reception organised by the Embassy of Sweden in the Philippines on 6 June 2024 in Manila.

Check against delivery.

Ambassador Thunborg,

Secretary Teodoro,

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my great honour to be a part of the Swedish National Day celebration in Manila and address you this evening.

Last week, I participated in the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, where President Marcos Jr gave an excellent keynote address.

His speech laid out both the challenges that we are facing, and the great possibilities that arise from partnership between likeminded countries around the world.

Countries like the Philippines and Sweden.

Our two nations have enjoyed diplomatic relations for 77 years.

Our partnership has always been characterised by close people-to-people relations, flows of trade and investments, and engagement for peace, stability and security. We share both interests and values in a number of areas.

***

The Euro-Atlantic and the Indo-Pacific regions are more inter-linked than ever before.

As a trade and innovation-driven economy, Sweden is reliant on the excellence and constant development of our industry, and on good trading relations with partners around the world.

Therefore, safe sea lines of communication and freedom of navigation are core security interests to us.

Let me say how pleased I am that the free trade negotiations between the European Union and the Philippines have resumed.

More than 40 Swedish companies are present in the Philippines today, and they are active in virtually every sector.

From infrastructural development and green transition to defence, security, aerospace, cyber and space.

The IKEA store here in Manila is the largest in the world. This is a case in point, as much as it can be, about our close relations.

***

Excellencies,

Ladies and gentlemen,

The international system is more than ever before shaped by great power competition and increased rivalry.

Russia's illegal full-scale war against Ukraine is not only devastating for Ukraine and its population, but also a threat to European and global security at large.

Continued and consistent support to Ukraine is of utmost importance. And we very much appreciate the Philippines' principled stance on condemning the Russian aggression.

On 7 March 2024, Sweden became a member of NATO. Through our membership, we will be safer and NATO stronger. Like the Philippines, we are also deepening our bilateral relations with the United States.

On 5 December. I signed our Defence Cooperation Agreement with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, just a few months after the Philippines signed the updated Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement.

At the same time, Sweden is enhancing its engagements in the Indo-Pacific. In this context, a strong partnership with the Philippines is of paramount importance.

We have a lot in common.

We are both dedicated to peace, and this is very important to us.

But we also know that peace comes through strength. And that is why both countries are investing heavily in their armed forces. It is an investment into our continued security and freedom.

Peace and security have, indeed, for a long time been a priority area in Swedish-Philippine relations.

For many years, Sweden has actively supported the Bangsamoro Peace Process, and our two countries also cooperate extensively on matters such as promoting and defending the UN Charter, the rules-based international order and respect for international law, including UNCLOS.

Let me express my deep concern for the repeated dangerous manoeuvres against Philippine vessels that have been taking place in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea.

These acts put human lives at risk, undermine regional stability and international norms, and threaten security in the region and beyond.

These are not only threats to your national security, but also to our common global security.

Sweden stands firmly behind the call of the European Union and others for restraint and full respect for international law  to ensure peaceful resolution of differences and a reduction of tensions in the region.

The UN Charter, UNCLOS, and the Arbitration Award of 2016, as well as other relevant international rules and regulations relating to the safety of life at sea, should be respected at all times.

***

Excellencies,

Sweden is just about to launch its Defence Policy for the Indo-Pacific. We are looking to enhance defence dialogues with partners in the region.

I came from Australia yesterday, where I met with my counterpart Richard Marles. And I will also host the Japanese Minister of Defence Minoru Kihara in Sweden this summer.

Our armed forces are also engaging with regional partners, whilst being mindful of priorities and partners' interests.

Joining regional exercises, adding liaison officers to regional commands, and sending officers on higher education in the region are among the possibilities.

We are also ready to deepen our collaboration in areas such as defence innovation, cyber and space if the Philippines so wishes.

Sweden can and wants to be a long-term partner to the Philippines in security and defence.

Our joint Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation is an expression of our engagement. And I am happy that we recently signed an Implementing Arrangement for defence acquisition.

But most of all I am glad that our cooperation is closer, deeper and more comprehensive than it has ever been before.

Thank you!

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Lebanon's Hezbollah fires rockets at northern occupied Palestine

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Lebanon's Hezbollah announced on Tuesday night a rocket attack on the headquarters of the Zionist military in northern occupied Palestine.

Lebanon's Hezbollah announced that it targeted the Beit Halal barracks with Katyusha missiles.

At the same time, the Zionist media reported that 10 rockets were fired from southern Lebanon towards the town of Kiryat Shmona and its surroundings in the Asba al-Jalil area in northern occupied Palestine.

Hebrew-speaking sources announced that the alarm has sounded in the town of Kiryat Shmona and its adjacent areas in the north of occupied Palestine.

Lebanon's Hezbollah had previously announced the targeting of the Israeli military base Al-Manara on the Lebanese border by issuing a statement.

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Hezbollah releases drone footage of sensitive Israeli targets

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah has released unprecedented drone footage of sensitive targets at the Israeli port city of Haifa, in what is seen as a major security failure for Tel Aviv.

The group published a nine-minute 31 second-long video of footage captured by a surveillance drone of sensitive Israeli military positions, including bases, military complexes and Iron Dome batteries.

Hezbollah has sent surveillance and attack drones across the border into the occupied territories over the past eight months as it continues to exchange fire with the Israeli forces over the war on Gaza.

Some of the drones have been intercepted and shot down, but some have got through to their targets.

The latest footage was released just a few hours after US Envoy Amos Hochstein concluded his visit to Beirut, in what appeared to be a humiliating message to both Hochstein and the Israeli regime.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah said in a statement that it had targeted the artillery position of the Israeli army's 411th Battalion in Neve Ziv with a swarm of drones.

The group said the drone strike was in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza.

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Hezbollah hits Zionist Merkava tank in northern occupied lands

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Hezbollah of Lebanon has hit and annihilated a Zionist Merkava tank in northern parts of the Palestinian Israeli-occupied territories, according to local media.

Al Ahd News said on Tuesday that the tank was directly hit by a combat drone.

Ever since the launch of the Zionist invasion against the Gaza Strip, the Hezbollah forces began targeting Zionist bases to ease the pressure of the regime on the Gazan people.

US President Joe Biden's senior adviser Amos Hochstein is currently in Beirut to help ease the tensions between Lebanon and the Zionist regime.

He met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati on Tuesday where they discussed the situation going on in the region.

Speaking during the meeting, the Lebanese prime minister said that Lebanon is not seeking to fuel tensions and is rather after the establishment of a ceasefire.

He said that Beirut is looking for ways to prevent the escalation of tensions and put an end to the Zionist violation of the Lebanese sovereignty.

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Israel trapped in 'strategic bottleneck': Hamas

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas' representative in Lebanon, Ahmad Abdel Hadi, has said that Israeli regime is trapped in a "strategic bottleneck."

Speaking to Al Mayadeen on Monday, Abdel Hadi said the Zionist regime is "in disarray" and has no choice but to get rid of.

The Israeli regime is suffering from a "deep crisis" due to the Resistance's attacks and the power of the Resistance Axis, he told the news channel.

He went on to say that "the dissolution of the war cabinet means that the entity ['Israeli regime'] has been experiencing fragmentation since the launch of the Al-Aqsa Flood (Storm) operation due to the Resistance's operations."

The Hams official noted that Resistance has given its response to the proposed ceasefire agreement, stressing that the US has to put pressure on Israel if it wants to end the war.

He further underlined that some parts of the truce agreement will "prevent the fulfillment of the Palestinian people's demands" after being implemented.

The prime minister of the Zionist regime Benjamin Netanyahu has disbanded the Israeli war cabinet, and the decision was made after the recent withdrawal of Benny Gantz.

From the beginning of the war in Gaza in October 2023, over 37,000, mostly women and children, have been killed in the enclave.

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8,663 Zionist soldiers transferred to rehabilitation centers

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Zionist sources have reported that since the onset of the war on the Gaza Strip, some 8,663 Zionist troopers have been transferred to rehabilitation centers.

According to Al-Ahed news website, the regime's Knesset (parliament) announced in a statement that from October 7, 2023, simultaneously with the initiation of Operation Al-Aqsa Storm until now, some 8,663 Zionist military forces have been transferred to mental and physical rehabilitation centers.

The statement did not point to the sorts of injuries and harms; however, it emphasized that the most common type of injuries is wounds to the hands and feet, which accounts for 42% of injuries, and after experiencing incidents related to war, 21% of troopers suffered from mental reactions and shock. Additionally, 9% experienced internal injuries, 7% suffered spinal cord injuries, 8% had ear injuries, and 2% suffered from eye injuries.

The Knesset also mentioned that 35% of the wounded troops, who transferred to those centers, were suffering from mental problems.

Mickey Levy, a member of the Knesset, criticized that a cabinet that dispatches its military forces to the battlefield must know how to take care of them upon their return and not abandon them as soon as their active service comes to an end.

The Zionist official also warned that the issue of mental problems of veterans is a time bomb.

The Jerusalem Post newspaper reported that more than 10,000 military forces have requested psychotherapy services since the beginning of the Gaza war.

Zionist media outlets have time and again reported suicide incidents among those troopers who returned from the Israeli onslaught on Gaza.

The Israeli regime's army claimed that 662 personnel of its military forces have been killed since October 7 and 528 others have been seriously injured, but some reports show the real number of casualties of this war is much higher.

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Malaysia PM announces plan to join BRICS

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim announced that his country will soon start the official process of joining the BRICS group of emerging economies.

"We have indicated, as a policy, that we are" joining, Anwar Ibrahim was quoted by the Singaporean daily The Straits Times as saying in an interview with the Chinese news outlet Guancha.

"We have made a decision. We are placing the formal procedures soon," he added.

Malaysia belongs to the global south and its possible membership in BRICS is of strategic importance because of the position of the Strait of Malacca as an important shipping route between the Pacific and Indian oceans.

Expressing his satisfaction that the world is no longer unipolar, he said that BRICS provides a ray of hope for creating balance in the world.

"We can no longer accept a scenario in which the West wants to control the discourse; since the reality is that they are no longer colonial powers and independent countries must express themselves freely," he said.

BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates.

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Saudi Crown Prince calls for int'l action to protect Gazans

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman has called on the international community to take all measures to immediately stop the Zionist regime's aggression against the Gaza Strip and ensure the protection of Palestinian civilian.

According to IRNA, citing the official Saudi news agency SPA, bin Salman issued the call during the annual Hajj reception ceremony of government guests, political leaders of Islamic countries, heads of delegations from other countries at the Royal Court of the Mina Palace on Monday.

The Saudi Crown Prince emphasized the need to implement the recent resolutions of the Security Council regarding the immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and recognize Palestine as an independent state along the 1967 borders with al-Quds as its capital.

We emphasize the importance of implementing the UN resolutions and the mobilization of the international community to ensure the protection of people's lives in Gaza, he said referring to US President Joe Biden's proposal to establish a ceasefire in Gaza that was recently adopted by the Security Council.

Despite a positive node from Palestinian resistance groups on the UNSC resolution, the Zionist regime has failed to stop its bloodshed in Gaza and has even defied a ruling issued last month by the top UN court asking the regime to immediately stop its invasion of the Palestinian territory.

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Zionist regime assassinates another Hezbollah commander

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Zionist regime has assassinated one more commander of the Hezbollah Resistance Movement, in continuation of its crimes in southern Lebanon, news sources reported.

According to IRNA, citing Al-Arabiya website, Hezbollah field commander named Mohammad Ahmad Ayoub was killed in attack on car in southern Lebanon on Monday.

This report did not give more details but said the Zionist regime's aerial attack took place in the city of Salaa in southern Lebanon.

Ayoub was reportedly was one of the officials of the equipment production department of this resistance group.

This is the second Israeli assassination of senior Hezbollah members in about a week.

Taleb Sami Abdallah, better known by the nom the guerre Abu Taleb, a top commander of the Lebanese resistance movement was killed in Israeli air raid targeting a house in the town of Jwaya on last Tuesday.

In retaliations for Abdallah's assassination, Hezbollah has fired hundreds of rockets as well as "guided missiles" over the past several days targeting Israeli positions in the occupied territories.

Israel's spying equipment and radar systems on the Mount Meron as well as a gathering of the occupying regime's soldiers at the Hadab Yaroun were successfully hit by Hezbollah rockets and missiles.

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More Zionists injured in clashes with resistance fighters in Gaza

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Zionist army has confirmed the injury of 16 more of its soldiers in fighting with Palestinian resistance forces on the ground in the Gaza Strip.

According to IRNA's report citing a Palestinian news site on Monday, the Israeli army announced in a statement that 16 soldiers were injured in the past 24 hours in Gaza.

In the statement of the Zionist army, stated that the number of officers and soldiers wounded since the beginning of the war on Gaza on October 7 has reached 3,848 people, of which 1,942 were injured since the ground invasion of Gaza was launched.

According to this statement, 662 officers and soldiers of the Zionist regime have been killed since the beginning of the Gaza war, a number Palestinians and the Zionist regime's own media suspect, arguing the military is undercounting its casualties in Gaza to avoid the public anger.

The media of the Zionist regime have so far admitted to the severe censorship of the army in announcing their casualty figures. These media revealed earlier that the number of killed and wounded announced by the army differs greatly from the number provided by the hospitals.

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Israeli occupation suffering from deep crisis: Hamas official

ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency

Tue / 18 June 2024 / 11:37

Hamas representative in Lebanon, Ahmad Abdel Hadi, said that "the Zionist entity is in disarray and is suffering from a deep crisis due to the Palestinian Resistance and the Axis of Resistance."

Tehran -ISNA- Speaking to Al Mayadeen, Abdel Hadi explained that "the dissolution of the war cabinet means that the entity [Israel] has been experiencing fragmentation since the launch of the Al-Aqsa Storm operation due to the Resistance operations."

He pointed out that the level of proficiency achieved by the Resistance's operations is escalating along with the virtuosity on the political level of its leaders, while the Israeli occupation is living in a strategic bottleneck from which it does not seem to have the prospects of getting out of.

Regarding the current negotiations, he affirmed that "the Resistance has presented its response to the agreement, and the American administration must pressure the [Israeli] occupation government if it wants to end the war."

Moreover, Abdel Hadi said that "the American administration, through the negotiations, does not want to grant the Resistance any achievements," stressing that "the Resistance cannot concede its demands that preserve the achievements of the Al-Aqsa Storm."

The representative also noted that "the ideas that were being proposed to the Resistance within the framework of the deal contain traps that prevent the fulfilment of the Palestinian people's demands."

In addition, Abdel Hadi praised the role of the Islamic Resistance in Lebanon as a support front in Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, saying that "it achieved its role as a support front for Gaza, where it achieved very significant strategic deterrence on the military level, the displacement of thousands of settlers, and the striking of the occupation's intelligence systems."

He confirmed that "the cessation of the war on the Lebanese front will occur after the war on Gaza stops, and the American envoy Amos Hochstein has become convinced of this."

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Statement by PM Netanyahu

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Press Releases

The 37th Government

18.06.2024

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today:

"When Secretary Blinken was recently here in Israel, we had a candid conversation. I said I deeply appreciated the support the U.S. has given Israel from the beginning of the war.

But I also said something else. I said it's inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel.

Israel, America's closest ally, fighting for its life, fighting against Iran and our other common enemies.

Secretary Blinken assured me that the administration is working day and night to remove these bottlenecks. I certainly hope that's the case. It should be the case.

During World War II, Churchill told the United States, 'Give us the tools, we'll do the job.' And I say, give us the tools and we'll finish the job a lot faster."

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KNDS offers the complete range of proven artillery systems

KNDS

06/18/2024

 Almost 200 KNDS artillery systems are in service or under contract for Ukraine.

 Ukraine becomes the 9th user of the PzH 2000, 400 of which have been ordered by several European customers, and the 10th user of the CAESAR of which more than 600 have been ordered since it came into service.

A complete range of artillery systems

The CAESAR has proven to be robust, reliable and easy to maintain as much in counter-insurgency as in high-intensity warfare. These operational capabilities proven all around the world led the CAESAR to become the most ordered modern artillery system. Hence, KNDS has multiplied by three the production rate of the CAESAR to meet the needs of all its customers: today, 6 CAESAR are produced each month.

For the first time, KNDS displays the CAESAR MkII: a new 6x6 chassis with a more powerful engine, an enhanced protection and a cab prepared for the SCORPION combat information system (SIC-S).

The state-of-the-art RCH 155 wheeled howitzer and the field-proven PzH 2000 both demonstrate technological leadership in the 155mm gun sector. Currently, Ukrainian Army have signed 54 RCH 155 with KNDS. UK and Germany have recently agreed to co-develop the RCH 155 with KNDS with a potential of 400 artillery systems. KNDS is cooperating with its partners to develop and to deliver SHORAD, and C-UAV.

An expanding club of CAESAR and PzH 2000 users

Ukraine hase become the 10th user of the CAESAR. 78 systems are currently under production this year to the entire benefit of the Ukrainian army. More than 500 CAESAR are now in service or under contract: France recently notified KNDS for an order of 109 CAESAR MkII. Due to the donor of 25 PzH 2000 to Ukrainian Army, KNDS has currently 41 PzH 2000 for new production under contract, 54 more systems are under discussion for Germany and UA.

The KATANA ammunition to heighten the precision of 155mm artillery systems

The conflict in Ukraine has shown the particular need of long-range proven artillery systems for counter-battery and high precision strikes. To ensure a maximum precision, KNDS is developing the KATANA guided ammunition that will allow 10 meters precision strike beyond 40km. KATANA will be offered by the end of 2025. The ammunition is currently undergoing guidance test in jammed environment.

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Data on interceptions of aircraft completed near the Baltic States' borders on June 10-16, 2024

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence

2024-06-18

International cooperation | Security and defense policy

On June 3-9 fighter aircraft of the NATO Baltic Air Policing Detachment were scrambled 11 times to intercept aircraft of the Russian Federation violating flight rules in international airspace over the Baltic Sea.

On June 10 aircraft of the NATO Baltic Air Policing Detachment were scrambled to identify and escort two SU-24MR flying in international airspace over the Baltic Sea.

On June 10 NATO fighter aircraft were scrambled to intercept one IL-20 flying in international airspace over the Baltic Sea without the flight plan. NATO fighter jets also intercepted one SU-27 as it was flying in international airspace over the Baltic Sea.

On June 11 NATO fighter aircraft were scramble to identify and escort one IL-20 flying from Kaliningrad into international airspace and back without the pre-filed flight plan, its onboard transponder off, not maintaining radio communication with the regional air traffic control centre.

On June 11 NATO fighter jets were scrambled to intercept one IL-96 flying from Kaliningrad to mainland Russia through international airspace. The IL-96 had a flight plan, its onboard transponder was switched on and the crew was maintaining radio communication. NATO fighter jets also intercepted two SU-27 that escorted the IL-96 from Kaliningrad into international airspace and then went back to Kaliningrad, as well as two SU-30SM that took off in the mainland Russia, met the IL-96 and escorted it to the mainland Russia. None of the four had flight plans, their onboard transponders were switched off and radio communication as not maintained.

On June 12 NATO Air Policing fighter jets were scrambled to intercept one AN-30 which flew from Kaliningrad into international airspace and back without the flight plan and not maintaining radio communication, though its onboard transponder was off.

On June 13 NATO fighter aircraft were scrambled to identify and escort one IL-20 flying from Kaliningrad into international airspace and back without the flight plan, not using the onboard transponder, not maintaining radio communication with the regional air traffic control centre.

On June 13 NATO fighter aircraft were scrambled to intercept two SU-24Ms on a flight from Kaliningrad and back via international airspace, without the flight plans, no radio communication, their onboard transponders switched off.

On June 14 NATO fighter jets were scrambled to identify one IL-20 flying from Kaliningrad to mainland Russia via international airspace. It had no pre-filed flight plan, the onboard transponder was switched off, the crew was maintaining radio communication with the regional air traffic control centre. NATO crews also identified one AN-30 flying from Kaliningrad and back via international airspace, without the flight plan, its onboard transponder switched off, not maintaining radio communication.

On June 14 NATO fighter jets were scrambled to intercept two SU-24M flying from Kaliningrad into international airspace and then back, neither had their onboard transponders switched on, the crews were not maintaining radio communication and did not have the flights plans.

On June 14 NATO Air Policing fighter jets were scrambled to intercept two SU-30SM which were on a flight from Kaliningrad and back through international airspace. Their onboard transponders were switched off, the crews had no flight plans and did not maintain radio communication.

On June 15 NATO fighter aircraft were scrambled to intercept one AN-30 that flew out into international airspace from Kaliningrad and returned. It had no flight plan, the onboard transponder was switched on, the crew was maintaining radio communication with the regional air traffic control centre. They also intercepted two SU-34, two SU-27 and one SU-24MR which were flying without the flight plans, without maintaining radio communication and with switched off onboard transponders from Kaliningrad and back via international airspace.

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MBDA expands its Deep Precision Strike capabilities with the Land Cruise Missile system

MBDA

18/06/2024

MBDA unveils the Land Cruise Missile (LCM) system, a new ground-launched Deep Precision Strike capability, to meet the needs of the new strategic environment on the battlefield.

LCM builds on all of MBDA's expertise in the field of Deep Precision Strike, and is based on the combat proven Naval Cruise Missile (NCM) in-service on French Navy frigates and attack submarines.

The LCM system constitutes a unique European sovereign solution for a deep strike ground-launched cruise missile system, designed, produced and assembled in Europe. Customers operating NCM missiles and LCM system will belong to an exclusive club of countries possessing very long-range Deep Precision Strike capability from below and from the surface of the sea as well as from the ground.

Eric Beranger, CEO of MBDA, said: "The Land Cruise Missile system complements MBDA's comprehensive portfolio of decisive European sovereign solutions. Building on the track-record of the Naval Cruise Missile, MBDA demonstrates its ability to cover the full spectrum of operational requirements for our customers while generating synergies across our deep strike portfolio to ensure battle-readiness."

The LCM system will offer the same unique capabilities as the NCM, including: metric precision at very long range; high survivability when penetrating through enemy integrated air defence systems thanks to reduced radar cross section & terrain-following capability; and high lethality against targets. It will also allow highly accurate synchronized time-on-target (STOT) capability as already demonstrated by the simultaneous NCM strike from a frigate and a submersed submarine, performed by the French Navy with the support of DGA in April 2024. The LCM brings the capability to inflect aggressive behaviours from peer adversaries by imposing a permanent and immediate threat against enemy high value assets.

With the LCM concept of operation, MBDA will offer a comprehensive integrated system including the mission planning suite and ground launchers mounted on dedicated land platforms offering flexibility, survivability and reactivity to ground forces in high intensity contexts.

MBDA will showcase its Land Cruise Missile system (LCM) for the first time during the Eurosatory 2024 exhibition (17-21 June, in Paris).

About MBDA

______________________________________________________________________

MBDA is a unique multi-national European group, a world-leader in the field of complex weapon systems, playing a key role in keeping nations safe. Created in the spirit of international co-operation, MBDA and its 15,000+ employees work together to support the national sovereignty of France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK, and our allies worldwide. As an accelerator for innovation, MBDA is the only European group capable of designing and manufacturing complex weapons to meet the full range of current and future operational requirements of the three armed forces (land, sea and air). Airbus (37.5%), BAE Systems (37.5%) and Leonardo (25%) jointly own MBDA.

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Secretary General meets with Secretary Blinken to prepare NATO's Washington Summit

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

18 Jun. 2024

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington D.C. on Tuesday (18 June 2024), as part of his visit to the United States and Canada, in preparation for the Washington Summit in July.

Mr Stoltenberg thanked Secretary Blinken for his strong commitment to NATO. He stressed that for 75 years, NATO has been the ultimate security guarantee for all Allies, and that in NATO, the U.S. has 31 friends and Allies that help to advance U.S. interests and multiply America's power.

The Secretary General also emphasised that burden sharing is improving within NATO, pointing out that defence spending is up 18 percent across European Allies and Canada in 2024, and that 23 Allies will invest at least 2% of GDP in defence this year. He also noted that Allies are sharing the burden of support to Ukraine, and that at the Summit, he expects "European Allies and Canada to come forward with more financial and military support."

Also on Tuesday, Secretary General Stoltenberg will meet with members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and members of the Senate NATO Observer Group. On Wednesday, the Secretary General will travel to Ottawa to meet with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He will return to Washington D.C. on Thursday to meet with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and members of the U.S. Congress.

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Human Rights Council Hears that the Severity of Violations against Women and Girls in Afghanistan Might Amount to Crimes against Humanity, and that Nearly 18 Million Individuals Face Acute Hunger in Sudan Amidst Looming Famine

18 June 2024

The Human Rights Council this afternoon held an enhanced interactive dialogue on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, hearing that the severity of violations against women and girls in Afghanistan might amount to crimes against humanity. It also began an interactive dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, hearing that nearly 18 million individuals faced acute hunger amidst looming famine and that the civilian population was placed at the centre of extreme violence.

Nada Al-Nashif, United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, extended a welcome of solidarity to the courageous Afghan women participating in the dialogue. It was critical to ensure their voices remained at the centre of the Council's discussions and across all other international fora. Systematic, extreme discrimination and violence against women and girls must not be normalised, nor tolerated by the international community.

Richard Bennett, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, said his new report found that the Taliban's institutionalised system of gender oppression, established and enforced through its violations of women's and girls' fundamental rights, was widespread and systematic, and appeared to constitute an attack on the entire civilian population, amounting to crimes against humanity. Since last June, the de facto authorities had issued at least 52 edicts that intensified restrictions on Afghan women and girls which were increasingly enforced. Women and girls excluded from the education system faced heightened risks of forced marriage and debt bondage. Mr. Bennett said the violations against women and girls in Afghanistan were so severe and extensive, he had concluded that they might amount to crimes against humanity, including gender persecution.

Mr. Bennett recommended that the Taliban should immediately dismantle their institutionalised system of gender oppression; and should engage constructively with United Nations human rights mechanisms, including his mandate. He also called on the international community to avoid normalisation or legitimisation of the de facto authorities until and unless there were demonstrated, measurable and independently verified improvements against human rights benchmarks, particularly for women and girls.

Nasir Ahmad Andisha, Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations Office at Geneva, welcomed the latest report by the Special Rapporteur. Afghanistan under Taliban rule faced one the most serious institutionalised human rights crises in the world, particularly for women and girls, and it was increasingly worsening. He emphasised that gender apartheid should be recognised as a crime against humanity, and called for an independent investigative mechanism by the Council that reflected the gravity of the situation.

Laila, a young girl from inside Afghanistan, said that she could not continue her education after being banned from universities. She could not graduate from school and had lost many opportunities in life. Now, she felt helpless and had lost hope. She called on the international community to keep supporting the women and girls to Afghanistan, including to access education.

Benafsha Yaqoobi, women and disability rights activist, said women and girls in Afghanistan endured gender-based discrimination from the very beginning of their lives. For nearly three years, a system of gender apartheid had been unfolding, entrenched with intersectional impacts of discrimination based on ethnicity, class, religion, marital status and disability. This had doubled the impacts on women in marginalised groups.

Shafiqa Khpalwak, poet, writer, and human rights activist, said to imagine a world where, one day, you wake up and your children do not have the right to attend school, particularly your daughters. The right to have a job was denied and the right to freedom of speech and expression was taken. It seemed impossible to imagine such a world, but it was a harsh reality for Afghan women every single day.

Lina Tori Jan, women, peace and security advocate, said without the education she had received after the first regime's collapse in 2001, she would not be speaking to today. She was saddened to see the past echoing the present. Countries should stand firm on conditions for dialogue at the upcoming Doha meeting. It was essential that the international community insisted that Afghan members of civil society, minorities, and women were represented in these talks.

In the ensuring discussion, speakers, among other things, said the de facto Afghan authorities had institutionalised discrimination, segregation, gender-based violence and other human rights violations perpetrated against women and girls in Afghanistan. Increasing restrictions were being placed on Afghan women's access to the rights to work, freedom of movement, health and access to justice and recreation, among other rights. The exclusion of girls from education heightened the risk of other abuses, including forced marriage and gender-based violence, and restricted women's participation in society. Some speakers said some countries had imposed unreasonable unilateral actions against Afghanistan, harming the rights of the Afghan people. These needed to be revoked. The speakers called for "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned" responses to the crisis. The international community needed to work with the de facto authorities to achieve peace.

The Council then started an interactive dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan.

Mohamed Chande Othman, Chair of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, said Sudan had been engulfed in a devastating conflict for over a year now, characterised largely by its urban and widespread nature, with its civilian population placed at the centre of extreme violence. Blatant disregard for fundamental human rights and international humanitarian law had led to killings, looting, mass displacement, rape and other forms of sexual violence, and resulted in a grave humanitarian crisis, with around 18 million people acutely food insecure and five million facing starvation. Since the outbreak of the conflict, almost nine million individuals had been forcibly displaced from their homes, with more than 1.8 million fleeing to neighbouring countries.

Mr. Othman said it was hard to see the human rights and humanitarian situation in Sudan improving without an immediate ceasefire. The commanders of warring parties needed to issue instructions to the forces or militias under their control to strictly abide by international humanitarian law, as per their international obligations, as also iterated in the Jeddah Declaration. Civilians needed to be protected, and attacks against them, including killings, looting, sexual violations and forced displacement needed to be punished in conformity with human rights law. The warring parties needed to refrain from attacking humanitarian workers, stop obstructing the delivery of aid, and allow unfettered humanitarian access to the millions of civilians in need in every part of Sudan.

Yassir Bashir Elbukhari Suliman, Chief Prosecutor of Sudan, speaking as a representative of the country concerned, said the world had witnessed the violations, crimes and atrocities committed by the rebel Rapid Support Forces against unarmed civilians, including killing, displacement and systematic attacks amounting to genocide against the Masalit tribe in West Darfur, which had left 5,000 dead and 8,000 wounded, as well as a recent massacre in a village in Gezira province, which left 227 dead and more than 150 wounded, and recent flagrant attacks on the village of Sheikh Sammani, killing 21 people and wounding 15.

The rebel forces committed all these crimes with the help of foreign mercenaries from 11 countries, in violation of international and regional conventions. Mr. Sulilman said Sudan was ready to engage in technical cooperation.

In the discussion, some speakers, among other things said they were alarmed by the continued escalation of the conflict in Sudan, as well as by the severe deterioration of human rights and the catastrophic humanitarian situation nationwide with millions on the brink of famine. Some speakers strongly appealed to the warring parties for an immediate and durable ceasefire, and said they would continue to support regional and international mediation efforts to bring peace to Sudan. Some speakers noted that the political process needed to be owned by the Sudanese, and any foreign intervention in Sudanese affairs should be rejected. The Council must take into account the consent of the country concerned when establishing new mechanisms.

Speaking in the discussion on Afghanistan were Finland on behalf of a group of countries, Canada on behalf of a group of countries, European Union, Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Liechtenstein, Chile, Kuwait, United Nations Women, United Nations Children's Fund, United Arab Emirates, Turkiye, Ireland, Japan, Iran, Sierra Leone, Indonesia, Luxembourg, Israel, Spain, Germany, Poland, Belgium, Qatar, Czechia, Republic of Korea, Italy, China, United States, Costa Rica, Russian Federation, Malta, Malaysia, Pakistan, Albania, Bulgaria, Austria, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ghana, Romania, Venezuela, South Africa, India, Malawi, Montenegro, Mexico, Ukraine, Dominican Republic and France.

Also speaking were Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development, Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, Iran Human Rights Documentation Centre, Freedom Now, Madre, Inc., Interfaith International, Afghanistan Democracy and Development Organization, Human Rights Research League, and International Service for Human Rights.

Speaking in the discussion on Sudan were the European Union, Norway on behalf of a group of countries, Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Qatar on behalf of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Jordan on behalf of the League of Arab States, New Zealand on behalf of a group of countries, United Kingdom on behalf of a group of countries, Gambia, Liechtenstein, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Ireland, Qatar, Japan and United Nations Women.

The webcast of the Human Rights Council meetings can be found here All meeting summaries can be found here. Documents and reports related to the Human Rights Council's fifty-sixth regular session can be found here.

The Council will reconvene at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, 19 June, to conclude the interactive dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, to be followed by an interactive dialogue with the Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and in Israel.

Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Situation of Human Rights in Afghanistan

Report

The Council has before it the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan (A/HRC/56/25).

Opening Statements

NADA AL-NASHIF, United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, extended a welcome of solidarity to the courageous Afghan women participating in the dialogue. It was critical to ensure their voices remained at the centre of the Council's discussions and across all other international fora. Today's dialogue built upon the dialogue held a year ago, with the Special Rapporteur and the Working Group on discrimination against women and girls. Since then, the situation had worsened. Restrictions on all rights had tightened and women were now essentially confined to their homes.

Although the de facto authorities continued to claim that women's rights would be protected, over the past year more intrusive restrictions had been applied to women's and girls' lives. Afghanistan remained the only country in the world where girls were denied education beyond primary level. Through this ban, the Taliban continued to restrict girls' development opportunities and their ability to live independently in the future. The Taliban also continued to apply their ban on women from working for international organizations, including the United Nations, as well as outside the home. Just last week, the de facto authorities cut female civil servants' pay relative to male employees. Ongoing restrictions on movement, including the requirement of a "mahram" or male chaperone to travel further than a small radius from their homes, left women and girls with limited ability to undertake social, cultural or economic activities outside of their homes.

The Office welcomed the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, which highlighted the systematic and all-encompassing restrictions women and girls continued to face. It focused on intersectional forms of repression and oppression, and the realities of what Afghan women of all ages faced. The Office remained deeply concerned at the ongoing discriminatory and restrictive environment and its consequences. This had enormous impacts on women and girls' mental health, represented in the shocking increase in suicides in the past year. There remained little accountability for violence against women and girls, or for other violations of their rights.

Such systematic, extreme discrimination and violence against women and girls must not be normalised, nor tolerated by the international community. Ms. Al-Nashif hoped today's dialogue would lead to an agreement on the need for concerted action by the Council, and the wider international community. The brave women activists present today should see that the international community stood with them and were committed to finding ways to influence the de facto authorities to reverse their regressive edicts. The future potential of Afghanistan could only be realised through upholding the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights by all women and girls.

RICHARD BENNETT, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, said his new report built on and deepened the findings of his joint report with the Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls on the Taliban's discriminatory and misogynistic policies.

Mr. Bennett said he had shared a draft of the report with the Taliban. Instead of engaging with the report's very serious findings, which were well documented by both the Special Rapporteur and others, the Taliban instead described the report as "false" and indicated that they were not interested in cooperating with the mandate.

The report found that the Taliban's institutionalised system of gender oppression, established and enforced through its violations of women's and girls' fundamental rights, was widespread and systematic, and appeared to constitute an attack on the entire civilian population, amounting to crimes against humanity. This attack was intensifying. The Taliban's system of discrimination, segregation, disrespect for human dignity and exclusion was pervasive, methodical, and imposed through edicts, policies and enforcement, sanctioning severe deprivations of fundamental rights, each systematically interacting with others, creating a mutually reinforcing architecture of oppression.

Since last June, the de facto authorities had issued at least 52 edicts that intensified restrictions on Afghan women and girls which were increasingly enforced, sometimes violently. The institutionalised deprivation caused profound gendered harms, spreading across Afghan society and cascading down through generations. Women and girls excluded from the education system faced heightened risks of forced marriage and debt bondage. Day by day, Afghanistan was being deprived of its future women engineers, journalists, lawyers, biologists, politicians and poets.

Systematic restrictions of women's right to work and freedom of movement had robbed them of their financial autonomy, forcing dependence on male relatives. Families had plunged deeper into poverty, with increased reports of depression and suicide among women and girls. Mr. Bennett said he admired the ingenuity and determination of Afghan women who continued to find ways to sustain themselves and their families. Afghans with intersecting marginalised identities - including people with disabilities, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, and those from ethnic, religious, linguistic and other minorities - also faced heightened discrimination and violence. Mr. Bennet called on the Council to consider the impact on Afghanistan's children and particularly girls.

The Special Rapporteur said the violations against women and girls in Afghanistan were so severe and extensive, he had concluded that they might amount to crimes against humanity, including gender persecution.

Survivors had emphasised that the term "gender apartheid" most accurately described their experience and were calling for its recognition as a crime against humanity. This system of domination and oppression of women and girls should propel discussion on codification of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity and as a human rights violation, defined in a gender inclusive way. The international community needed to ensure that all victims and survivors could access justice for the totality of crimes committed against them.

The gravity and scale of the crimes could not be overstated. The international community had a collective responsibility to challenge and dismantle this appalling system and to hold those responsible to account.

No single approach was likely to be effective on its own. What was needed was an "all tools" approach centring around justice and accountability; incorporating human rights and women's voices in political processes and diplomatic engagement; bolstering documentation; and reinforcing protection and solidarity for Afghan women, girls and human rights defenders.

In 12 days, a major meeting would take place in Doha. This offered an important opportunity to affirm that the rights and voices of women and girls would not be sidelined. Civil society, including women, needed to be meaningful participants in the meeting and women's rights needed to be central to discussions. For the credibility and the sustainability of international engagement, it was vital that it was underpinned by a principled, human rights-centred approach.

The Taliban were not recognised as a government and should not be treated as such. They should not be allowed to dictate the terms of United Nations-hosted meetings. Meaningful and sustained improvements in human rights needed to form a central part of any way forward for Afghanistan. Failure to learn the lessons of the past and sideline human rights could have devastating and long-lasting consequences.

Mr. Bennett recommended that the Taliban should immediately dismantle their institutionalised system of gender oppression, and should engage constructively with United Nations human rights mechanisms, including his mandate. He also called on the international community to avoid normalisation or legitimisation of the de facto authorities until and unless there were demonstrated, measurable and independently verified improvements against human rights benchmarks, particularly for women and girls. The international community should prioritise protection, solidarity and support for Afghan women and girls, including human rights defenders.

The Taliban's institutionalisation of its system of gender oppression should shock the conscience of humanity. It was incumbent upon all to take decisive action to stand with Afghan women and girls, hold the perpetrators accountable, and restore dignity, equality and justice for all.

NASIR AHMAD ANDISHA, Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations Office at Geneva, welcomed the latest report by the Special Rapporteur. Afghanistan had fallen into a state of darkness and repression, marked by severe and systemic violations of fundamental human rights. Afghanistan under Taliban rule faced one of the most serious institutionalised human rights crises in the world, particularly for women and girls, and it was increasingly worsening. The ongoing entrenchment of the Taliban's gender oppression and its inherent dehumanisation of women and girls was likely sowing a dangerous ideology in new generations of Afghans, particularly boys and young men, which could potentially lead to future security risks in the region and beyond.

As a member of the United Nations, Afghanistan had obligations under the United Nations Charter, international treaties and resolutions which mandated the elimination of discrimination against women, promoted gender equality in the workplace, and ensured women's participation in peace and security processes. However, the Taliban's rhetoric and actions starkly contravened these obligations. Since the drafting of the joint report, approximately 52 edicts issued between June 2023 and March 2024 had further restricted the rights of women and girls across the country. The United Nations Charter unequivocally reaffirmed the equal rights of men and women. In the past nearly three years, the Taliban Government had proved that it was neither willing nor capable of carrying out these basic obligations.

Therefore, the people of Afghanistan appealed to Council members to uphold the core values of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, recognising Afghanistan's role as one of its original signatories. The United Nations should prioritise the protection of fundamental human rights under Taliban rule. Women's basic rights should be recognised as essential and non-negotiable, rather than as a means to serve other interests. The protection and empowerment of women were paramount in ensuring a just and equitable future for Afghanistan. United Nations Member States had heightened obligations to address severe breaches of fundamental norms in the current context. They must avoid normalising or legitimising the Taliban under any guise, including during the upcoming United Nations-led Doha conference on 30 June.

As the report showed, the worsening and unprecedented situation of human rights in Afghanistan demanded full accountability. The Special Procedures mandate holders and the treaty bodies were urged to monitor and coordinate efforts closely. States engaging with the Taliban must demand human rights respect and include women in their dialogue. Mr. Andisha emphasised that gender apartheid should be recognised as a crime against humanity, and called for an independent investigative mechanism by the Council that reflected the gravity of the situation.

LAILA, a young girl from inside Afghanistan, said that she could not continue her education after being banned from universities. She could not graduate from school and had lost many opportunities in life. Now, she felt helpless and had lost hope. All Afghan girls had lost their freedom and could not participate in activities they had participated in in the past. They were no longer free to travel alone.

Laila said she was worried of being captured. She was trying to deal with the problems she faced. She had not given up; she was helping her mother and learning to cook. But this was not her future. She wanted to help other girls; to be successful and make her parents proud. Since the regime change, girls' mindsets had changed. A few months ago, authorities had detained a number of girls Laila knew, claiming that they were not wearing a hijab. Three or four of those girls had committed suicide after returning. Many of Laila's friends had given up hopes of studying and had married. She said she thought she could face the same fate and her children would not be proud of her.

She said the courageous young girls of Afghanistan kept her hopeful. She called on the international community to keep supporting women and girls in Afghanistan, including to access education. She expressed thanks for the support that the international community had provided thus far and called for more support to be provided.

BENAFSHA YAQOOBI, women and disability rights activist, said women and girls in Afghanistan endured gender-based discrimination from the very beginning of their lives. Women and girls had always fought against gender persecution to claim their fundamental human rights. They had been suppressed, had fallen, but had always risen again.

During the two decades leading up to 2021, known as the Republic Era, Afghanistan had received support as per national laws and international treaties. The 2004 Constitution of Afghanistan, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities provided the country with a legal framework that allowed for relative access to rights. Despite challenges, women could pursue education, work, and participate in society without fear of detention or torture by the then governance for their choices in attire or for commuting between home and work without a male guardian.

However, the Taliban's second takeover in Afghanistan had plunged the nation into darkness, especially for women and girls. Their extremist orders and dogmatic interpretation of religion had imposed severe restrictions, turning Afghanistan into a vast prison for its people, particularly women and girls. The documentation and monitoring of human rights violations in custody and detention centres had become a dreadful struggle.

For nearly three years, a system of gender apartheid had been unfolding, entrenched with intersectional impacts of discrimination based on ethnicity, class, religion, marital status and disability. This had doubled the impacts on women in marginalised groups. Countless cases of multifaceted discrimination went undocumented and unreported.

Ms. Yaqoobi told the story of "Amina", a mother of five daughters, one of whom had disabilities. Her heartfelt plea for her daughter was simple: she wanted to ensure that her child was saved from the nightmare of being forced into an unwanted marriage simply because of her disability and poverty.

Ms. Yaqoobi said there should be no retreat from universally accepted human rights values and principles. These should remain non-negotiable when engaging with Afghanistan's ruling system. All efforts needed focus on restoring the nation's lost rights and returning to a life based on global standards and norms. Women and marginalised groups needed to see themselves represented and their voices heard in every stage of strategy, policy and planning. When allocating humanitarian aid, as a response to the current crisis, the inclusion and engagement of marginalised women/girls, particularly those with disabilities, needed to be a pre-requisite.

Ms. Yaqoobi called on the international community to join hands to make Afghanistan a much better place by making the political system a responsive one, not just to the nation, but to all the world. This was what Amina, her children, and millions like them expected.

SHAFIQA KHPALWAK, poet, writer, and human rights activist, said to imagine a world where, one day, you wake up and your children do not have the right to attend school, particularly your daughters. The right to have a job was denied and the right to freedom of speech and expression was taken. You cannot have any say in how the government or policies should be. Most importantly, you cannot even complain about any of these injustices because you are even deprived of having access to the justice system. So, you become a nobody. It seemed impossible to imagine such a world, but it was a harsh reality for Afghan women every single day.

When the Taliban took over Afghanistan in 2021, she had been faced with the choice of leaving her country, or staying and becoming a nobody. Under the Taliban's rule, women in Afghanistan had become voiceless, faceless, and nameless creatures. In the past three years, the Taliban had systematically institutionalised policies, stripping women of their identities and dignity, turning them into nobody. Afghan women were forbidden from being students, teachers, doctors, pilots, journalists, judges, politicians, because, in the eyes of the Taliban, they were nobody. Ms. Khpalwak told the story of Asma, her sister Lima and her mother Frida, who were a generation that had fallen victim to the Taliban's systematic discrimination. This was not only the story of Asma and her family but was the bitter reality of millions of Afghan mothers and daughters.

Despite all this segregation and discrimination, Afghan women and men seized every opportunity to resist gender apartheid in Afghanistan, including by speaking anonymously to international media, secretly documenting human rights violations, taking bold actions such as the resignation of over 50 university professors, the refusal to take exams by university students in Nangarhar, or the protests of young girls and women who bravely took to the streets. In recent days, a campaign "IQRA" was launched to mark 1,000 dark days, where millions of Afghan girls were forbidden from getting an education. In this campaign, hundreds of Afghan men and women raised their voices for the reopening of girls' schools.

Afghan women asked the international community, with all their power and influence, what had been done in the past three years? In the fight for existence, they felt alone, betrayed and abandoned. All they asked was to be listened to and consulted because they were not nobody. They were somebody, who had the right to change their fate, elect their leader, and be treated equally.

LINA TORI JAN, women, peace and security advocate, said she came before the Council as someone who grew up under the Taliban's first regime and as an Afghan woman now working at a Washington DC-based non-governmental organization, supporting a network of exiled Afghan women leaders. Without the education she had received after the first regime's collapse in 2001, she would not be speaking to the Council today. She was saddened to see the past echoing in the present with the Taliban's restrictive policies of her early childhood again stripping the rights of millions of Afghans, under a regime that had not changed for the better but instead had adopted draconian measures to oppress Afghan women and girls. Ms. Jan drew attention to avenues for accountability regarding Afghanistan which were not new, but underutilised.

On 5 March 2020, an official investigation into Afghanistan was opened at the International Criminal Court. Four years on, the investigation was ongoing, and no charges had been filed. As the investigation continued, the International Criminal Court should ensure that Afghan women and minorities were included in evidence collection. By ratifying the Convention on the Elimination against Women in 2003, Afghanistan consented to the International Criminal Court's jurisdiction to adjudicate disputes. The Taliban was violating the Convention. Any party to the Convention could challenge Afghanistan's alleged violations in the International Criminal Court and countries were encouraged to engage in this litigation.

Existing legal frameworks did not sufficiently capture the crimes perpetrated against women and girls in Afghanistan. Women around the world and the 10 Member States that had expressed openness to exploring the codification of gender apartheid states were encouraged to refer action on gender apartheid to their capitals. Countries could elect to unilaterally continue to withhold formal recognition of the de facto regime and support sanctions to restrict its leaders' travel. Engagement necessary to deliver essential aid should continue but relations with the de facto regime should not be normalised. Countries should also stand firm on conditions for dialogue at the upcoming Doha meeting. It was essential that the international community insisted that Afghan members of civil society, minorities, and women were represented in these talks. These experiences were currently missing from the conversation. More than ever, there needed to be leadership grounded in shared values of empathy and human dignity.

Discussion

In the discussion, many speakers, among other things, said the de facto Afghan authorities had institutionalised discrimination, segregation, gender-based violence and other human rights violations perpetrated against women and girls in Afghanistan. This situation was alarming and reprehensible, the speakers said, condemning the actions of the authorities. Increasing restrictions were being placed on Afghan women's access to the rights to work, freedom of movement, health, and access to justice and recreation, among other rights. The Taliban's measures caused trauma, suicide and loss of life.

There were reports of rape, forced sterilisation, arbitrary detention, forced displacement, gender-based violence and other forms of abuse of women and girls, who were being forced to the shadows. This system of oppression could amount to gender persecution, a crime against humanity. Traditions and religions could not be used to justify the repression of women and violations of their rights. The effects of the Taliban's actions would be felt for generations. The Taliban had failed to live up to the human rights conventions to which Afghanistan was a party. Some speakers thanked the brave Afghan women who had provided testimony to the Council.

Some speakers expressed concern over the implications of the Taliban's measures on millions of children in Afghanistan. There had been a 25 per cent increase in child marriage and an over 50 per cent increase in maternal mortality in Afghanistan since 2021. Around 21 million children required urgent humanitarian assistance. One child was killed or maimed each day by unexploded ordnances. Children were being recruited by the Taliban for sexual or military purposes.

Recently, Afghanistan marked 1,000 days since the de facto authorities banned girls from attending education above grade six, one speaker noted. Another speaker expressed concern that the ban on education had recently been extended to private education. The exclusion of girls from education heightened the risk of other abuses, including forced marriage and gender-based violence, and restricted women's participation in society. Speakers said that denying girls their right to education was neither humane nor Islamic. Such measures were denying the country of Afghan women doctors, nurses and other professionals who could assist the population. The measures also affected men and boys, some speakers noted, saying that they taught them to impose gender stereotypes in their households.

Recent mass public floggings and flagellation were a worrying manifestation of the repression of several rights, including the right to freedom of speech and assembly. Speakers condemned these actions, expressing concern that several human rights defenders had been arbitrarily detained and calling for their immediate release.

Some speakers noted the report's definition of a possible "gender apartheid" occurring in Afghanistan and called on the international community to investigate this possibility and make it a topic of discussion in international settings. The expression best defined the oppression being faced by Afghan women and girls. The codification of this crime could be an important measure for seeking accountability for it, the speakers said. One speaker, however, rejected the use of the term "apartheid" in this context, saying that it diluted the meaning of this heinous crime against humanity.

Some speakers also expressed their concern regarding the effects of the Taliban's measures on women with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons, calling for an end to discrimination of these groups. One speaker expressed concern that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex people were not considered in the Special Rapporteur's definition of gender apartheid. There needed to be increased efforts to document crimes against these groups, including flogging.

Many speakers expressed support for the women and girls of Afghanistan. They said the de facto authorities needed to uphold the rights and dignity of all its citizens, including women and girls, and respect the human rights treaties to which the State was a party. There needed to be an end to the cycle of impunity; the authorities needed to be held accountable for all rights violations against women. Some speakers proposed the establishment of an authority to seek accountability for violations. Women needed access to justice and women's rights needed to be incorporated in all interventions. Their rights to education, employment and freedom of movement needed to be restored. There needed to be increased investment in basic services for women and girls affected by the crisis. The international community must not recognise or normalise the actions of the Taliban authorities.

Some speakers regretted that civil society had not been offered a seat at the upcoming Doha talks. One speaker regretted that the United Nations had issued travel waivers on Taliban leaders who had committed rights violations, calling for travel bans and asset freezes to be imposed on them. This situation required urgent, coordinated action with civil society, some speakers said.

A number of speakers said that the situation needed to be considered in the context of the State's history, security and geopolitical situation. The irresponsible withdrawal of United States troops from Afghanistan in 2021 had led to the deaths of many women and children. The root causes of the problems that Afghanistan faced should have been addressed in more detail by the report, they said. One speaker regretted that some parts of the report dwelled on divisive and unverified themes. Another speaker, however, said that the historical context should not be used as an excuse for the actions of the Taliban.

One speaker welcomed that the interim authorities had been promoting the return of Afghan refugees. Some countries had imposed unreasonable unilateral actions against Afghanistan, harming the rights of the Afghan people, some speakers said. These needed to be revoked. The speakers called for "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned" responses to the crisis. The speakers praised the Afghan interim authorities' efforts to combat instability and poverty in the country. The international community needed to work with the de facto authorities to achieve peace.

Some speakers called for a democratic response to the crisis in collaboration with the people of Afghanistan, which included dialogue with the Taliban. Inclusive governance was critical for promoting women's rights, they said.

A number of speakers expressed their commitment to alleviating the suffering of the Afghan people, presenting their efforts to achieve this, including capacity building programmes that supported development, and aid projects that promoted access to education and health rights. Other speakers reported on efforts to engage with the de facto authorities in bilateral and multilateral fora, including to restore women's and girls' right to education. One speaker presented programmes to support Afghan refugees to access education overseas.

Speakers asked how the international community could support women's full participation in deliberations about Afghanistan's future; how civil society's meaningful participation could be best ensured in the Doha process; how the international community could step up efforts to combat gender-based oppression in Afghanistan; and practical measures to ensure that discrimination against women and girls in Afghanistan was a topic of focus in international and regional fora.

Questions were also asked about measures to increase accountability for the negative impacts of unilateral coercive measures on the people of Afghanistan; how the Taliban could be held accountable for their crimes; how the international community could best manage the threat posed by terrorism in the country; measures to protect at-risk Afghan women and girls; how States could monitor violations of human rights in Afghanistan more effectively; how the international community could support acts of Afghan resistance; and where the international community should invest support to best address discrimination against women and girls.

Concluding Remarks

LINA TORI JAN, women, peace and security advocate, encouraged Member States to look at the document that had been sent to the Security Council which outlined recommendations for the upcoming meeting in Doha. Women and civil society needed to be included in all parts of the dialogue concerning Afghanistan. Women and human rights needed to be on the agenda for the upcoming meeting in Doha. The Special Rapporteur should be invited to the Doha meeting to share his findings from his report. It was important not to be fatigued by lack of progress. Commitment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights should not be neglected. Ms. Jan asked States to follow through on their commitments, not just through words but through actions. It was important not to betray the future for Afghan children.

SHAFIQA KHPALWAK, poet, writer, and human rights activist, said she and millions of other women, who were somebody in the country, were also the political, social and economic reality of Afghanistan. They could not be ignored. She thanked everyone for their solidarity. In the short term, it was important to invest in mechanisms, whether online or clandestine schooling, for girls' education. In the long term, perhaps the United Nations and Member States could lead an alliance for girls' education. This had begun in Afghanistan and others were called on to join. Women's employment was directly related to poverty. Therefore, it was important to take the small opportunities to support Afghan-women businesses. The Taliban should be pressured to allow women to receive humanitarian aid.

BENAFSHA YAQOOBI, women and disability rights activist, said gender apartheid and gender persecution were ongoing in the country. Women in Afghanistan were standing strong, supported by people who believed in the value of human rights. Different delegations had expressed solidarity with Afghanistan. All delegations needed to consider what they could do for women and girls and marginalised groups in the country. Afghanistan needed their solidarity in action.

NASIR AHMAD ANDISHA, Permanent Representative of Afghanistan to the United Nations Office at Geneva, said the depth of the abyss and the demands of the people of Afghanistan had been made very clear in the debate. There was consensus that the current situation was not sustainable, and agreement among United Nations members about what a sustainable outcome for Afghanistan should look like. Afghanistan needed to be at peace with its neighbours and ensure the rights of its populace, including women and girls. The existing general agreement on the path to peace for Afghanistan required engagement with the Taliban and the placement of the people at the centre of deliberations. Ensuring space for civil society in United Nations-led efforts could be a first step on the path to peace.

RICHARD BENNETT, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, expressed gratitude to the Afghan human rights defenders who gave presentations. Their call for action was clear and compelling. Mr. Bennett thanked Member States and non-governmental organizations for their support and interventions. Questions had been asked about next steps. Mr. Bennett stressed the importance of an "all-tools-approach" which placed human rights at the heart. It was important to strengthen relationships between the Council and the United Nations bodies in New York to ensure the situation remained high on the United Nations' political agenda.

Several members had asked about representation at Doha. It was important to have principled, human rights-based engagement. While an international process, the success of the next Doha meeting should not be measured solely on when the Taliban came to the table, especially if the cost was the representation of Afghan women and girls. Gender apartheid should be approached as a crime against humanity and a human rights violation. Mr. Bennett regularly attempted to raise human rights concerns with the Taliban and had sent the report ahead of its publication. Regretfully, instead of engaging with the findings, the Taliban dismissed them as false. Mr. Bennett reiterated his call to the international community not to engage with the de facto authorities unless there were improvements in the rights of women and girls. Allowing another year to pass risked claims of complicity. The international community owed it to Afghans to meet their bravery with effective action.

Interactive Dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan

Presentation of Oral Update by the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan

MOHAMED CHANDE OTHMAN, Chair of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan, said Sudan had been engulfed in a devastating conflict for over a year now, characterised largely by its urban and widespread nature, with its civilian population placed at the centre of extreme violence. Blatant disregard for fundamental human rights and international humanitarian law had led to killings, looting, mass displacement, rape and other forms of sexual violence, and resulted in a grave humanitarian crisis, with around 18 million people acutely food insecure and five million facing starvation.

The Fact-Finding Mission was deeply aware of the urgency of the situation. It had initiated contacts with the Government of Sudan and with the Governments of its neighbouring countries: Chad, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Central African Republic, as well as Kenya and Uganda. It had also engaged with organizations and entities involved in the situation in Sudan to coordinate efforts. Even without physical access to Sudan, the Fact-Finding Mission had been able to conduct about 80 interviews so far, including with victims and eyewitnesses. It also held meetings and consultations with a considerable number of stakeholders, including civil society representatives and human rights defenders.

The information gathered so far indicated that the deadly conflict that broke out in Sudan on 15 April 2023, mainly between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, was continuing unabated on a massive scale. It now involved multiple actors within and outside Sudan and had spread from Khartoum and Darfur to most of the country. The Mission was deeply concerned that the fighting persisted with tragic consequences and enormous suffering of the civilian population. It had received credible accounts of indiscriminate attacks against civilians and civilian objects, including through airstrikes and shelling in heavily populated residential areas, as well as ground attacks against civilians in their homes and villages.

In the capital Khartoum and in its close vicinity Omdurman and Bahri, at the outbreak of the conflict, intense clashes, airstrikes and heavy artillery shelling, including in residential areas, and attacks on schools, hospitals and medical facilities had resulted in killings and injuries of civilians, including women and children, and forced many to leave their homes and property to seek refuge in other locations.

The siege of El Fasher, North Darfur, by Rapid Support Forces was particularly concerning. El Fasher was the capital of Darfur, with 1.5 million inhabitants. It hosted approximately 800,000 internally displaced persons. Already, heavy fighting between the warring parties in different parts of the city had led to significant civilian casualties, damaged homes, and caused mass displacement. The attack on one of the main and last functioning hospitals in the city on 8 June led to its closure, leaving the civilian population without access to life-saving medical care.

The Mission called on all parties to abide by Security Council resolution 2736, which demanded that the Rapid Support Forces halt the siege of El Fasher and called for an immediate halt to the fighting. The Mission called upon all States to abide by the Security Council arms embargo imposed on Darfur, and noted the call of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court for information regarding this unfolding situation, urging all parties to fully cooperate with his Office.

Previous attacks on other areas compounded concerns. The Mission was currently investigating earlier large-scale attacks against civilians based on their ethnicity in other areas of Darfur, which included killings, rape and other forms of sexual violence, torture, forced displacement and looting, including in Geneina and later in Ardamata between April and November of last year. Ethnic-based attacks were also under investigation, including in Zalingei, Nyala, and other areas of Darfur as well as in Kordofan, Al Jazirah and parts of greater Khartoum. With regard to the situation in Al Jazirah, the Mission was investigating attacks, including on its capital, Wad Madani in December 2023, and related killings, injuries, arbitrary arrests and torture of civilians and mass displacement. Recently, on 5 June, Wad al-Noura village in Al Jazirah was reported to have been attacked with heavy artillery, leading to hundreds of civilian deaths, including numerous children. In all these areas, massive looting and extensive destruction of civilian homes and property continued.

Additionally, health facilities had been attacked, pillaged and destroyed, making it impossible for the many injured civilians to get any medical attention. Medical supplies had also been blocked from reaching critical areas. There were reports that many civilians had died from injuries sustained in the conflict due to the unavailability or inaccessibility of medical facilities. The conflict had also led to significant damage of essential infrastructure, including electricity and water supply lines as well as communication networks. Attacks on medical personnel, including those providing support to victims of sexual violence, were highly disturbing.

The conflict continued to cause mass displacement of the civilian population at unprecedented levels. Since the outbreak of the conflict, almost nine million individuals had been forcibly displaced from their homes, with more than 1.8 million fleeing to neighbouring countries. The Mission appreciated the efforts of the countries which, despite their limited resources, continued to support the refugees who fled the conflict in Sudan.

Nearly 18 million individuals were facing acute hunger, amidst looming famine. At least five million civilians, including children and pregnant women, were at risk of starvation, with a minimal response as warring parties continued to obstruct humanitarian access, attack humanitarian workers, and loot humanitarian supplies. In the face of this immense suffering, the humanitarian response plan, which remained severely underfunded, with only 16 per cent of the required funds having been received, required urgent international attention.

There were also credible reports of many cases of sexual violence being committed by the warring parties across various parts of the country since the start of the conflict. Women and girls had been, and continued to be subjected to rape and gang rape, abduction and forced marriage. Women and girls not only endured violent rape, including gang rape, and denial of medical support, but also were stigmatised and subsequently abandoned by their families. There were reports of sexual slavery and sexualised torture in detention facilities, including against men and boys, which the Mission was investigating.

Widespread recruitment and use of children at checkpoints to gather intelligence, as well as to participate in direct combat and commit violent crimes, were also frequently reported, placing the lives and future of many children at risk. The United Nations Secretary-General had ranked Sudan amongst the countries where the highest number of grave violations against children were reported. From the outset of the conflict, the warring parties appeared to have been targeting civil society actors and human rights activists, and subjecting them to threats, attacks, arbitrary arrests, torture, detention, enforced disappearance and killings.

The Mission had so far identified a number of structural and systemic issues as well as those related to policies and conduct. These included the continued arming of civilians without meaningful control, the mobilisation of militias and armed groups on an ethnic basis, and shielding from accountability those persons and entities responsible for atrocious crimes. Some of these practices were being revived by the warring parties from past conflicts and were laying the ground for current and future cycles of serious violations. The national legal system appeared unable to conduct prompt, independent and credible investigations or to prosecute persons in a manner consistent with international human rights norms and standards. It was therefore critical to combat impunity.

It was hard to see the human rights and humanitarian situation in Sudan improving without an immediate ceasefire. The commanders of warring parties needed to issue instructions to the forces or militias under their control to strictly abide by international humanitarian law, as per their international obligations, as also iterated in the Jeddah Declaration. Civilians needed to be protected, and attacks against them, including killings, looting, sexual violations and forced displacement needed to be punished in conformity with human rights law. The warring parties needed to refrain from attacking humanitarian workers, stop obstructing the delivery of aid, and allow unfettered humanitarian access to the millions of civilians in need in every part of Sudan.

The Mission also appealed to the States with influence over any of the warring parties to urgently step up efforts to halt the fighting and bring the parties back to the negotiation table in order to prevent further violations and abuses. The people of Sudan were crying for help to restore their dignity and rights. They needed the support and attention of the Council.

Statement by the Concerned Country

YASSIR BASHIR ELBUKHARI SULIMAN, Chief Prosecutor of Sudan, speaking as the representative of the country concerned, said the world had witnessed the violations, crimes and atrocities committed by the rebel Rapid Support Forces against unarmed civilians, including killing, displacement and systematic attacks amounting to genocide against the Masalit tribe in West Darfur, which had left 5,000 dead and 8,000 wounded, as well as a recent massacre in a village in Al Jazirah province, which left 227 dead and more than 150 wounded, and recent flagrant attacks on the village of Sheikh Sammani, killing 21 people and wounding 15. They were also responsible for the killing of Governor Khamis Abkar; the rebel forces had mutilated his corpse. Two hundred and sixteen women had been subjected to violence and rape. In addition to the forced recruitment of as many as 6,000 children, the number of children killed in military operations had reached about 4,850 children.

Since its rebellion in April 2023, the rebel Rapid Support Forces had been attacking and occupying civilian buildings and citizens' homes, which led to the forced displacement of more than 15 million citizens inside and outside the country, and they also attacked places of worship. In an attempt to sow chaos, the rebel forces stormed prisons and released around 19,000 inmates. In addition, they attacked the headquarters of law enforcement agencies and courts, looting, destroying, burning, destroying documents, and killing horses and police dogs. The rebel forces committed all these crimes with the help of foreign mercenaries from 11 countries, in violation of international and regional conventions.

In its investigations, the National Committee had defended the right to a fair trial. More than 12,000 cases and lawsuits had been received and the rebel forces were classified as a terrorist group in accordance with the law and the relevant Security Council resolutions. There were around 65 criminal cases in which investigations had been completed, where the national judiciary had issued convictions and acquittals.

Mr. Sulilman said Sudan was ready to engage in technical cooperation. The international community was called on to provide the technical assistance requested by Sudan. Sudan urged neighbouring countries to facilitate the Committee's task of allowing access to victims and witnesses. The international community should assist in the establishment of an international fund for reparations and compensation, provide technical and logistical support, including advisory support.

Discussion

In the ensuing discussion, some speakers, among other things, said they were alarmed by the continued escalation of the conflict in Sudan, as well as by the severe deterioration of human rights and the catastrophic humanitarian situation nationwide with millions on the brink of famine. The recent escalation of violence between the warring parties demonstrated how crucial the Mission's mandate was. After more than a year of fighting, thousands of lives had reportedly been lost, and the country was now facing the largest displacement crisis in the world with 20 per cent of the population displaced. An unprecedented five million people were now a step away from famine.

Some speakers were deeply armed at the recent violence and condemned the continued widespread disregard for international human rights law and international humanitarian law. Speakers were particularly concerned by the perpetration of sexual and gender-based violence, especially against women and children, the attacks against health and humanitarian workers and infrastructure, and the targeting of civilians, including on the basis of ethnicity. Perpetrators needed to be held to account. Accounts of child recruitment, crackdowns on freedom of speech and journalists, enforced disappearances, and an escalation of hate speech brought back dark images from Sudan's past into the present.

Some speakers strongly appealed to the warring parties for an immediate and durable ceasefire, and said they would continue to support regional and international mediation efforts to bring peace to Sudan. The International Criminal Court's recent call for evidence was welcomed. Many speakers reaffirmed their strong support for the Fact-Finding Mission's mandate and welcomed the regional efforts to bring peace and stability to Sudan. Both parties must stop the looting of and obstructions to aid delivery and ensure the protection of civilians, as demanded at the Paris Conference. Speakers called on all Sudanese parties to continue dialogue towards a peaceful and just transition.

Many speakers reaffirmed their solidarity with the Sudanese people, and called for the implementation of the Jeddah Declaration to protect civilians. Some speakers noted that the political process needed to be owned by the Sudanese, and any foreign intervention in Sudanese affairs should be rejected. The Council must take into account the consent of the country concerned when establishing new mechanisms. All those who committed atrocities needed to held accountable for their actions.

Some of the questions posed during the dialogue, included: after the Paris Conference, what could the international community do to aid efforts towards accountability? How could the work of the Mission be supported to provide the people in Sudan with a hope for freedom, peace and justice? How could regional actors contribute to the Mission's work? How could the international community ensure accountability in Sudan?

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High Commissioner for Human Rights Highlights the Cruelty of War and the Urgent Need to Find the Way Back to Peace as he Presents his Global Update at the Opening of the Fifty-Sixth Regular Session of the Human Rights Council

18 June 2024

The Human Rights Council this morning opened its fifty-sixth regular session, which will be held from 18 June to 12 July, hearing Volker Turk, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, present his global update on the situation of human rights around the world.

Mr. Turk said it pained him to start the global update with the cruelty of war. Since last March, where he had spoken of the right to peace, conflicts had only intensified. In 2023, data gathered by the Office of the High Commissioner showed the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict had soared by 72 per cent. Horrifyingly, the data indicated that the proportion of women killed in 2023 doubled and that of children tripled, compared to the year prior. There was an urgent need to find the way back to peace, in line with the United Nations Charter and international law.

The High Commissioner said he was appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law by parties to the conflict in Gaza. More than 120,000 people in Gaza, overwhelmingly women and children, had been killed or injured since 7 October, as a result of the intensive Israeli offensives. Since Israel escalated its operations into Rafah in early May, almost one million Palestinians had been forcibly displaced, while aid delivery and humanitarian access deteriorated further.

The situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, was dramatically deteriorating. As of 15 June, 528 Palestinians, 133 of them children, had been killed by Israeli security forces since October, in many cases raising serious concerns of unlawful killings. In the same period, 23 Israelis had been killed in the West Bank and Israel in clashes by Palestinians, including eight members of Israeli security forces. Palestinian armed groups continued to hold many hostages, and, in some cases in densely populated areas, putting them and Palestinian civilians at further risk. They must be released. The patterns raised serious concerns about the commission of war crimes and other atrocity crimes. He said the escalating situation between Lebanon and Israel was concerning.

Mr. Turk said the situation in Ukraine continued to deteriorate. The recent ground offensive by Russian armed forces into Ukraine's Kharkiv region had destroyed entire communities. Repeated waves of large-scale attacks on energy infrastructure had destroyed 68 per cent of Ukraine's electricity production capacity, bringing the system to a dangerous tipping point, especially ahead of winter.

The High Commissioner highlighted a number of other human rights situations and issues around the world.

Omar Zniber, President of the Human Rights Council, opened the session. Among other procedural issues, he noted that working hours of the Council had been adjusted on 20 June, with the morning meeting beginning at 9 a.m. and concluding at 12 noon. This was to accommodate the high-level informal Presidential discussion on the link between climate change, food security and health security, and their impact on the enjoyment of human rights.

Cuba and Eritrea, in the name of the Group of Friends in Defence of the United Nations Charter, said in advance that they did not recognise the conclusions of the informal debate in question, and that this should not be considered a precedent.

The webcast of the Human Rights Council meetings can be found here All meeting summaries can be found here. Documents and reports related to the Human Rights Council's fifty-sixth regular session can be found here.

The Council then started an interactive dialogue with the High Commissioner on Myanmar, followed by an enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan.

Opening Remarks by the President

OMAR ZNIBER, President of the United Nations Human Rights Council, opened the fifty-sixth regular session of the Human Rights Council. He welcomed the generous support of donors to the Voluntary Technical Assistance Trust Fund, which supported the participation of least developed countries and small island developing States in the work of the Council.

Mr. Zniber, addressing procedural matters, noted that the draft programme of work for the session could be found on the Council website and the Extranet. The programme of work was a living document. Delegates were encouraged to visit the "SCHED" website or application for the latest updates.

This session would take place over four weeks. Working hours of the Council had been adjusted on 20 June, with the morning meeting beginning at 9 a.m. and concluding at 12 noon. This was to accommodate the high-level informal Presidential discussion on the link between climate change, food security and health security, and their impact on the enjoyment of human rights.

A constructive, safe and respectful atmosphere was essential for the Council's sessions, Mr. Zniber said. However, the Council's mandate holders were sometimes subjected to personal attacks or threats in the course of their work. Disagreement with mandate holders and their reports could always be expressed, but it was unacceptable that they were insulted or personally attacked or threatened when discharging their mandates. Mr. Zniber said that, as President, he would support them against any inappropriate attack.

Similarly, the active participation of representatives of civil society and national human rights institutions was an essential component of the Human Rights Council. As President, he would follow up on all reported allegations of reprisals and intimidation, committed against individuals or groups, who had cooperated with the Council and its mechanisms. He called on everyone to take all necessary steps to prevent such acts from taking place in the first place and to ensure that they were promptly and seriously addressed in case they did occur.

The Council had a zero tolerance for any form of harassment, including sexual harassment. The Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva had pledged to implement the "Code of Conduct to prevent harassment, including sexual harassment, at United Nations system events" and Maira Macdonal Alvarez was serving the Council as Gender Focal Point, including for cases of sexual and gender-based harassment in the Council. All complaints would be dealt with promptly.

High Commissioner's Global Update

VOLKER TURK, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said it pained him to start the global update with the cruelty of war. Since last March, where he had spoken of the right to peace, conflicts had only intensified. In 2023, data gathered by the Office of the High Commissioner showed the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict had soared by 72 per cent. Horrifyingly, the data indicated that the proportion of women killed in 2023 doubled and that of children tripled, compared to the year prior.

Mr. Turk was appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law by parties to the conflict in Gaza. More than 120,000 people in Gaza, overwhelmingly women and children, had been killed or injured since 7 October, as a result of the intensive Israeli offensives. Since Israel escalated its operations into Rafah in early May, almost one million Palestinians had been forcibly displaced, while aid delivery and humanitarian access deteriorated further.

The situation in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, was dramatically deteriorating. As of 15 June, 528 Palestinians, 133 of them children, had been killed by Israeli security forces since October, in many cases raising serious concerns of unlawful killings. In the same period, 23 Israelis had been killed in the West Bank and Israel in clashes by Palestinians, including eight members of Israeli security forces. Palestinian armed groups continued to hold many hostages, and, in some cases in densely populated areas, putting them and Palestinian civilians at further risk. They must be released. The patterns raised serious concerns about the commission of war crimes and other atrocity crimes. Mr. Turk called for the binding decisions of the Security Council and of the International Court of Justice to be respected. The occupation must end, accountability must be served and the internationally agreed two-State solution must become a reality.

The escalating situation between Lebanon and Israel was concerning; 401 people had reportedly been killed in Lebanon, including paramedics and journalists. Over 90,000 people had been displaced in Lebanon, and over 60,000 had been displaced in Israel with 25 Israeli fatalities. Mr. Turk called for a cessation of hostilities and for actors with influence to take all measures to avert a full-scale war.

The situation in Ukraine continued to deteriorate. The recent ground offensive by Russian armed forces into Ukraine's Kharkiv region had destroyed entire communities. Repeated waves of large-scale attacks on energy infrastructure had destroyed 68 per cent of Ukraine's electricity production capacity, bringing the system to a dangerous tipping point, especially ahead of winter.

Sudan was being destroyed by two warring parties and affiliated groups, who stoked inter-ethnic tensions, denied humanitarian assistance, arrested human rights defenders, and cast aside the rights of their own people. Both Generals were put on notice for their responsibility in the commission of possible war crimes. It was vital that ongoing mediation efforts, including by the African Union, brought the conflict to an end.

During his mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo in April, Mr. Turk felt the immense suffering of civilians in the east, including those living in camps for internally displaced people with continued attacks by armed groups. Violence needed to end.

While there was a decrease in the intensity of hostilities in the Syrian Arab Republic compared to past years, there was no apparent end in sight to the conflict. With ongoing killings of civilians, sexual and gender-based violence, and arbitrary arrests of peaceful protesters. Syrian returnees continued to face risks, such as arbitrary arrest and detention and extortion.

In countries that had undergone unconstitutional changes of power, including Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, transitions were becoming longer and longer, without meaningful national dialogue processes and with increasing restrictions on civic space. The social contract between the transitional authorities and the people must urgently be restored.

South Sudan was exhausted by inter-communal violence and revenge killings, widespread attacks on civilians, extrajudicial executions, conflict-related sexual violence, food insecurity, and large-scale displacement. The Government needed to prioritise accountability, address localised violence, enhance the protection of civilians, investigate all alleged violations, and bring perpetrators to justice.

In Haiti, decades of exclusion, poor governance, corruption, and trafficking in weapons had contributed to endemic gang violence. Mr. Turk called for the urgent deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, with human rights safeguards, to support the national police and bring security to the Haitian people.

There was an urgent need to find the way back to peace, in line with the United Nations Charter and international law. As of the end of May 2024, the gap between humanitarian funding requirements and available resources stood at 40.8 billion USD, contrasted with the almost 2.5 trillion USD in global military expenditure in 2023, a 6.8 per cent increase from 2022. War came with a hefty price tag.

The far-reaching impact of war and conflict on the environment was also undeniable, on top of the immense challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution; 61 million people in southern Africa were affected by El Nino-induced drought and extreme weather worsened by climate change. Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe had declared a state of disaster, with more countries likely to follow.

The climate emergency disproportionately affected the world's poor and most marginalised, notably in small island developing States, least developed countries, and landlocked developing countries. Integrating human rights into environmental analysis and modelling would allow anticipation of the types of issues that would arise, inform decision-making, and minimise the worst impacts.

Globally, inequality had seen the largest increase in three decades. According to Oxfam, the wealth of the world's five richest billionaires had more than doubled since the start of the decade, while 60 per cent of humanity had grown poorer; 4.8 billion people were poorer than they were in 2019, while the wealth gap between men and women globally stood at 100 trillion USD.

While Sri Lanka's macro-economic situation had improved, the impacts of the economic crisis with associated austerity measures were affecting the poorest and already marginalised groups the most. Between 2021 and 2023, the poverty rate doubled from 13.1 to 25.9 per cent and was expected to remain over the next few years.

During his recent visit to the Lao People's Democratic Republic, Mr. Turk heard about the drastic impact debt servicing was having on public spending on social services. In visits to both that country and Malaysia, he welcomed the increased engagement with the Office and the United Nations human rights mechanisms and looked forward to building on it further.

In Argentina, recent measures risked undermining human rights protection, including cuts to public spending affecting the most marginalised, the closure of State institutions dedicated to women's rights, and access to justice. Mr. Turk urged the authorities to place human rights at the centre of their policy making.

Globally, economic systems needed to be brough in line with human rights, including the right to development. Some promising initiatives were underway, such as the Bridgetown Initiative, the proposed new Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development 15 per cent global minimum tax rate on multinational companies, and the global 2 per cent minimum wealth tax on billionaires, proposed by Brazil as the current G20 chair. It was hoped these initiatives were further triggers of the real transformation that was needed.

Systemic racism against people of African descent was perpetuated by systems and structures rooted in the legacies of colonialism and enslavement, manifesting in socio-economic inequalities. While countries like Brazil, Colombia and the United States were taking important steps to address racial discrimination, issues remained, including racial profiling, high unemployment, over-representation and differential treatment in detention, and excessive use of lethal force by law enforcement. The Office's "Agenda towards transformative change for racial justice and equality", and the recommendations of United Nations mechanisms, offered a comprehensive response to systemic issues. Mr. Turk supported calls to proclaim a Second International Decade for People of African Descent starting in 2025.

By 2030, women were forecasted to represent the majority of the extreme poor among those aged 15 and above, an increasing gender poverty gap. Mr. Turk deplored the ongoing systemic persecution of women and girls in Afghanistan, particularly regarding their rights to education, employment and freedom of movement. In the Islamic Republic of Iran, reports continued to be received of violent crackdowns, including widespread arrests, against women and girls for not wearing the hijab as instructed, as new measures to enforce the hijab law were implemented.

No country was immune from regression in women's rights. Everyone needed to be vigilant in countering this pushback. Mr Turk also warned of the dangers of anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim bigotry, as well as divisive disinformation that cast migrants and refugees as the scapegoats for wider challenges in society.

According to data from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, 72 journalists and media workers were killed in 2023, in large part in conflict situations. Data from the Office showed that at least 42 indigenous human rights defenders were killed in 2023 in 11 countries. The efforts of the Government in Guatemala to establish new mechanisms to strengthen protection of human rights defenders, journalists and indigenous leaders were welcomed.

In Yemen, Mr. Turk was deeply worried about the well-being of 13 United Nations national staff who, along with over 50 staff from national and international non-governmental organizations and civil society, had been arbitrarily detained by the de facto authorities since 6 June. Six of them, including one woman, were the Office's national staff and had not had contact with their families, nor had the United Nations been able to access them. The de facto authorities must immediately and unconditionally release them, and harassment of their families must stop.

The situation in Belarus continued to be very troubling, with over 1,300 people remaining imprisoned on politically motivated and vague charges. The authorities in Azerbaijan were urged to review, in line with international human rights law, all cases of journalists, activists, and other individuals arbitrarily deprived of their liberty and to ensure their protection against ill-treatment.

A worrying trend in terms of civic space was the adoption of the so-called "transparency" or "foreign influence" laws in over 50 countries, including in the Republika Srpska entity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, India, Kyrgyzstan, the Russian Federation, Slovakia and Turkiye. These laws risked having serious chilling effects on the work of civil society, freedom of expression and of association.

In recent months, in Peru, the Congress had advanced a series of legislative initiatives that could undermine judicial and electoral independence, reverse important gains on transitional justice and on womens political participation and restrict freedom of association and expression. In Mexico, Mr. Turk called on the authorities to ensure accountability for the violence and killings that occurred during the electoral period. The Office had continued to engage with China on a range of human rights issues, including the serious concerns identified in the Xinjiang region. The Office recently visited Beijing to discuss problematic provisions in China's counterterrorism and criminal laws, as well as the application of national security laws in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

In the Southeast Asia region, there was a pattern emerging of transnational repression whereby human rights defenders seeking refuge in neighbouring countries had been subject to rendition and refoulement or disappeared and even killed. There were indications this trend could become a global one and all States were urged to have zero tolerance for such actions and to ensure full accountability of their security forces.

Mr. Turk shared some developments which could provide some hope. Last year's commemoration of the seventy-fifth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights demonstrated the strength of the commitment to the universality and indivisibility of human rights. Almost 800 pledges were made to advance economic, social, and cultural rights, the right to development, the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, and civil and political rights. Many had already been acted upon, including 29 treaty ratifications made by 20 States, with Kazakhstan, South Africa, and Thailand having fulfilled their Human Rights 75 ratification pledges.

Mr. Turk also welcomed recent ratifications of human rights treaties by Bhutan, Cote d'Ivoire, the Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Tuvalu. Morocco, Paraguay and Portugal led the launch of the international network of national mechanisms for implementation, reporting and follow-up in May, which was their joint Human Rights 75 pledge. Several countries advanced new bills or reformed their comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, in line with their Human Rights 75 pledges. Adoption of legislation against gender-based violence in Dominica and Saint Lucia was also welcome.

The international and regional human rights systems, despite significant constraints, continued to deliver for people. Human rights treaty bodies had been groundbreaking on many issues, notably on the environment. Their work was bolstered by that of regional and international courts and tribunals.

Mr. Turk welcome the increasing commitment of numerous countries to advancing the human rights agenda, despite geopolitical headwinds. He recognised the openness of Ecuador to strengthening the Office's presence there, and that of Honduras to working with the Office to address systemic challenges, ranging from transitional justice initiatives to land and environmental protection. Mr. Turk also appreciated the commitment to establish a United Nations human rights regional office for the Caribbean Community and a country office in Mozambique.

One overarching concern was the increasingly aggressive verbal attacks, threats and reprisals, and virulent social media campaigns against international institutions and mechanisms, including the United Nations, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Special Procedures mandate holders, the International Court of Justice, and the International Criminal Court. This was unacceptable. With focus now on the Pact for the Future, Mr. Turk urged all States to ensure that the common commitment to human rights was reflected powerfully in the Summit's outcomes. A strong and effective human rights system was key to effective multilateral cooperation, and to building a better future for people and planet. The Office was ready to play its part.

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US reaffirms MDT commitment amid China's 'dangerous' acts in WPS

Philippine News Agency

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

June 18, 2024

MANILA -- The State Department has reaffirmed the United States' commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) following China's latest actions in the West Philippine Sea that involved a Chinese Coast Guard "ramming and towing" a Filipino vessel.

During a call about the June 17 incident, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Maria Theresa Lazaro and Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell "shared concerns" over China's activities and agreed that its "dangerous actions threatened regional peace and stability".

Campbell said Article IV of the 1951 United States-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty "extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft - including those of its Coast Guard - anywhere in the South China Sea".

In a separate statement, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller described China's way of disrupting Manila's resupply mission as "escalatory and irresponsible".

"PRC (People's Republic of China) vessels' dangerous and deliberate use of water cannons, ramming, blocking maneuvers, and towing damaged Philippine vessels, endangered the lives of Philippine service members, is reckless, and threatens regional peace and stability," he said.

"This escalatory incident is the latest in a series of PRC provocations to impede critically needed supplies from reaching service members stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre," he said.

He said Beijing's actions shows its "consistent disregard for the safety" of Filipinos and for international law in the South China Sea.

In a post on X, the New Zealand Embassy in Manila also called these actions "escalatory and dangerous".

"Escalatory and dangerous actions by Chinese vessels at Second Thomas Shoal damaging Philippine vessels and obstructing assistance to injured personnel are of great concern," it said.

"These threaten lives and safety. New Zealand calls for peaceful resolution of disputes in full accordance with UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea)," it said.

The embassies of South Korea, Germany, and Australia also shared the "grave" and "serious concern" over the incident.

"Australia shares the Philippines' deep concern at dangerous & illegal actions by China's vessels near Second Thomas Shoal, causing injury, damaging Philippines vessels, and endangering lives & regional stability. States must act consistently with international law, including UNCLOS," Australian Ambassador HK Yu said over X.

The South Korean Embassy, meanwhile, reiterated that South China serves as a "critical sea lane of communications" for countries using it.

"The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines expresses grave concern about the recent dangerous actions in the South China Sea that caused serious damages to the Philippine vessels and especially bodily injuries to a crew member," it said.

"We reiterate the importance of upholding peace, stability, safety and rules-based maritime order in the South China Sea, a critical sea lane of communications for all countries that are using it," it said.

The United Kingdom and Canada also joined several foreign missions that condemned China's actions and called for the peaceful resolution of disputes at sea.

PH, Australia troops wrap up warfighting drills

On Monday, the Philippine Army (PA) and the Australian Army concluded the month-long "Exercise Kasangga" in simple rites at the 5th Infantry Division headquarters at Camp Melchor Dela Cruz, Upi, Gamu, Isabela.

In a news release Tuesday, PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said 100 soldiers from the 86th Infantry Battalion, 5th Infantry Division trained together with 50 personnel from the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment in various warfighting exercises.

"PA training participants and their Australian counterparts shared techniques, tactics, and procedures in jungle and urban operations, breaching operations, tactical casualty care, jungle survival training, mortar and drone operations, logistics, signal operations, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations," he said.

Dema-ala said the drills, which kicked off on May 13, also involved sharing operational experiences in countering and conquering terrorist groups and external security threats.

Livelihood aid

Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino urged the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to work with the local government units (LGUs) to provide alternative livelihood projects to fisherfolk affected by the WPS dispute.

He made this appeal after visiting Masinloc and the towns of Sta. Cruz and Subic, both in Zambales province, to have a dialogue and to provide assistance to some 500 fisherfolk.

"We will explore what alternative means of livelihood can be provided, and I promise to press government agencies to assist you," Tolentino said.

At the same meeting, Masinloc Mayor Arsenia Lim denied reports that the municipal government is preventing local fisherfolk from sailing to Bajo de Masinloc following the reported June 15 enforcement of China's new Coast Guard regulation authorizing them to detain "trespassers."

She, however, appealed to fisherfolk to register the names with the municipal government to allow authorities to identify and monitor them in case of emergencies. (with Priam Nepomuceno/Leonel Abasola/PNA)

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Hezbollah publishes drone surveillance footage of key Israeli sites in Haifa

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 June 2024 4:48 PM

The Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement has published video footage gathered from its surveillance aircraft of strategic locations in the northern part of the 1948 occupied territories, including sea and air ports in the city of Haifa.

The group flagged up distribution of the nine-minute 31 second-long footage, including on its Telegram channel, advising viewers on several channels to "watch and analyze important scenes", including the cryptic message that it shows the "hoopoe had brought back."

The decision to broadcast the footage, which included images of residential and military sites in and around Haifa, including port facilities, was apparently aimed at Israeli audience.

The footage underlines the mounting difficulties that the Israeli military has encountered in dealing with the drone capabilities of Hezbollah.

There has been no reaction from Israeli political or military authorities on Hezbollah's drone footage of Haifa yet. Nonetheless, it will surely be seen as a humiliating failure for Israel's aerial missile systems.

The development came on the same day that Hezbollah announced in a statement that it had carried out a large-scale airstrike against a military site in the Israeli-occupied lands.

The Lebanese resistance movement said in a statement that it launched an aerial attack with a squadron of drones on an artillery position belonging to the 411th Battalion of the Israeli military in Neve Ziv settlement.

The group added that it struck gatherings of Israeli forces, precisely hitting the designated targets and causing casualties in the area.

Hezbollah further said the drone strike was in retaliation for the assignation of its field commander Muhammad Mustafa Ayoub in an Israeli drone strike on the outskirts of Selaa village in the Tyre district.

Earlier on Tuesday, Hezbollah fighters attacked a Merkava tank inside the Israeli army's Hadab Yarin site with a combat drone. The Lebanese group said it achieved a direct hit.

Hezbollah has been carrying out almost daily rocket attacks on Israeli positions in retaliation for the regime's aggression against Lebanon and in solidarity with Palestinians.

The genocidal war in Gaza has killed over 37,370 Palestinians, predominantly women and children so far.

At least 455 people have also been killed on the Lebanese border, including more than 80 civilians, according to a tally by AFP.

Two Israeli wars waged against Lebanon in 2000 and 2006 were met with strong resistance from Hezbollah, resulting in the retreat of the regime in both conflicts.

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Ansarullah slams US designation of Yemeni strikes as 'terrorist'

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 June 2024 1:56 PM

The Ansarullah resistance movement of Yemen has denounced the United States over designating anti-Israeli maritime operations by Yemeni naval units as "terrorist."

The Yemeni resistance movement said it was all part of attempts to conceal the plight of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

"The primary purpose of the designation is to divert the world public opinion from the full-fledged terrorism that the Israeli regime is exercising in Gaza.

"Yemeni military operations are completely of ethical nature, and aimed at protection of human rights and self-determination. They will stop once the ongoing aggression and all-out siege on Gaza cease," Ansarullah's political bureau said in a statement released on Tuesday.

The statement further noted that Ansarallah's demands are realistic, reasonable and clear: We will stop our military operations once the invasion of Gaza ends and the tight blockade on its residents is lifted.

"Yemen will continue its struggle to end the hypocritical approach pursued by the United States and its allies on human rights. We praise pro-Palestine encampments and protests that continue to spread in universities across the United States and Western countries, where participants demand an end to the ongoing genocide in Gaza," Ansarullah noted.

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 end.

Israel has killed at least 37,370 people and wounded over 85,400 in Gaza since October.

Leader of the Ansarullah resistance movement Abdul-Malik al-Houthi has said it is "a great honor and blessing to be confronting America directly."

The attacks have forced some of the world's biggest shipping and oil companies to suspend transit through one of the world's most important maritime trade routes. Tankers are instead adding thousands of miles to international shipping routes by sailing around the continent of Africa rather than going through the Suez Canal.

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UN rights chief sounds alarm on 'unconscionable' suffering in Gaza

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 June 2024 1:47 PM

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk raised the alarm on "unconscionable death and suffering" of Palestinians under Israel's relentless attacks on the Gaza Strip.

In a session of the UN Human Rights Council, Turk decried the regime's escalating attacks in both Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

"Israel's relentless strikes in Gaza are causing immense suffering and widespread destruction, and the arbitrary denial and obstruction of humanitarian aid have continued."

Turk said, he was "appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law."

In the occupied West Bank, he said, "Israel continues to detain arbitrarily thousands of Palestinians. This must not continue."

"The situation in the West Bank is dramatically deteriorating."

According to Turk, 528 Palestinians, 133 of them children, were killed by Israeli military forces or settlers in the West Bank since October.

He had warned earlier that people in the West Bank were being "subjected to day after day of unprecedented bloodshed."

In the Gaza Strip, Israel's military forces have killed more than 37,370 people since October, according to Palestinian health authorities, who believe that thousands more remain unaccounted for  either missing under the rubble, buried hastily in side streets or decomposing in areas that can't be reached.

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Resistance dismantled Israeli war cabinet; Tel Aviv in strategic deadlock: Hamas

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 June 2024 11:25 AM

A senior Hamas official says Palestinian resistance caused the dissolution of the Israeli regime's war cabinet after eight month of war on the Gaza strip.

Izzat al-Rishq, a member of the Hamas political bureau, said on Tuesday that the resistance in the Gaza strip successfully dismantled Israel's war cabinet, which was formed eight months ago to suppress the resistance movement.

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu dissolved the six-member war cabinet on Monday, following the withdrawal of his principal rival, Benny Gantz.

Gantz quit the cabinet more than a week ago, while accusing the prime minister of mismanaging the regime's genocidal war against the Gaza Strip.

The war cabinet was formed on October 11, 2023, just a few days after Israel launched the war on Gaza after Hamas mounted the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupying entity in response to the Israeli regime's decades-long campaign of bloodletting and devastation against Palestinians.

Since the start of the offensive, the Tel Aviv regime has killed more than 37,300 Palestinians, mostly women and children.

Ahmad Abdul Hadi, Hamas representative in Lebanon, also said in a speech on Monday that the Israeli regime has encountered a severe crisis and is now at a strategic deadlock due to the Palestinians' unwavering resistance and the Axis of Resistance.

The dissolution of the Israeli war cabinet indicates that the regime is facing collapse in the wake of the al-Aqsa storm operation, as a result of the resistance's steadfastness, Abdul Hadi said.

Regarding the ceasefire talks in Gaza, he emphasized that Hamas has presented its reply to the ceasefire offer. He also stated that in order to achieve peace, the US government needs to exert pressure on the Israeli regime.

"The US government remains firm in its stance against any compromise with the resistance front through negotiations. However, Hamas stands resolute, emphasizing that it will never back down from from its demands aimed at safeguarding the achievements of Al-Aqsa Storm," Abdul Hadi added.

On May 31, US President Joe Biden came up with a three-phase deal calling for an initial six-week truce in Gaza that will be followed by negotiations on a permanent ceasefire.

Hamas has clearly expressed its "positive position" on what was included in the US president's proposal, but belied US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's claim that the Israeli regime has "accepted" the plan saying "we have not heard any Israeli official speak of this approval."

Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders have said that they do not intend to stop the war until Hamas has been destroyed completely.

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Hezbollah field commander killed in Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 June 2024 6:34 AM

The Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement says a field commander of the group was killed after the Israeli military carried out an airstrike targeting his vehicle in southern Lebanon close to the border with the 1948 occupied territories.

In a statement, Hezbollah said that Muhammad Mustafa Ayoub had been killed in the Israeli drone strike on the outskirts of Selaa village in the Tyre district on Monday.

The statement added that his death brings to 343 the number of Hezbollah fighters killed ever since the Tel Aviv regime began to conduct attacks on southern Lebanon in October last year after it launched its genocidal war on Gaza.

Earlier in the day, Israeli aircraft fired two missiles on the border town of Mays al-Jabal as artillery shelling hit the border towns of Khiam, Kfar Hamam, Rashaya al-Fukhar and Kfarkela, as well as the Marjeyoun plain.

A few airstrikes and intermittent artillery shelling had also targeted several Lebanese border towns on Sunday.

Hezbollah has been carrying out almost daily rocket attacks on Israeli positions in retaliation for the regime's aggression against Lebanon and in solidarity with Palestinians.

The genocidal war in Gaza has killed at least 37,347 Palestinians, predominantly women and children so far.

At least 455 people have also been killed on the Lebanese border, including more than 80 civilians, according to a tally by AFP.

Two Israeli wars waged against Lebanon in 2000 and 2006 were met with strong resistance from Hezbollah, resulting in the retreat of the regime in both conflicts.

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Manila accuses China of dangerous maneuvers in South China Sea

8 Philippine naval personnel were injured when Chinese vessels blocked a Philippine supply ship.

By RFA Staff 2024.06.18 -- Eight Philippine naval personnel were injured, one of them severely, on Monday when Chinese vessels blocked a Philippine resupply mission to the Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands, Philippine media reported.

The incident is the third this year in which Philippine service members have been hurt in confrontations with Chinese boats, and signals more aggressive tactics by China in its territorial dispute with the U.S. ally.

Philippine media reported that a member of the navy's Special Operations Group lost a finger during a confrontation with Chinese troops. Six Philippine vessels were on a routine mission to deliver supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre outpost on the reef, which is called Ayungin Shoal in Tagalog, when they were intercepted.

Chinese soldiers targeted all six vessels, as well as their inflatable craft, and seized eight high-powered firearms from one boat, media reported on Tuesday.

None of the Philippine vessels reached the shoal due to the "dangerous maneuvers, including ramming and towing" by the Chinese vessels, which included boats from the navy, the China Coast Guard and the maritime militia, media reported.

Philippine government officials said in a statement that the mission "was disrupted by the illegal and aggressive actions of Chinese maritime forces." They did not elaborate

China 's rejected the accusation. Its foreign ministry said that China "took necessary control measures to stop the Philippine vessels in accordance with the law" and that their maneuvers were "professional, restrained, justified, and lawful."

U.S. Pentagon officials confirmed to the U.S. Naval Institute (USNI) News that a Philippine sailor suffered severe injuries during the mission that also resulted in damage to Philippine vessels.

The U.S. State Department condemned China's actions, which "reflect consistent disregard for the safety of Filipinos and for international law in the South China Sea."

Dangerous actions

The incident was the third this year in which Philippine personnel have been hurt on missions to rotate and resupply troops stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal.

On March 5 and March 23, Filipino crew members were injured when their supply boats were hit by water cannons from Chinese vessels.

Analysts say the water cannon has become a favored tool of Chinese law enforcement agencies at sea, not only at the Second Thomas Shoal but also at Scarborough Shoal, another South China Sea hotspot, allowing Chinese forces to act more aggressively without using the force of firearms.

In a video from March supplied by the Philippine Coast Guard, two Chinese vessels were seen firing water cannons from opposite sides of Philippine resupply vessel Unaizah May 4, causing it damage.

"It's mainly for firefighting since many coastguards have this role, but water cannon is also used for other purposes - including for maritime law enforcement," said Collin Koh, a regional maritime expert.

"The use of water cannon falls short of use of kinetic force, by which we normally refer to as firepower weapons," Koh said, pointing to what he sees as a "loophole" in regulating the use of water cannons in maritime disputes.

Koh, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, said that water cannon, "depending on the range at which it's fired, the nature of the target and especially the water pressure itself, can potentially maim or kill."

"And if water cannon damages the vessel's navigation system, it could heighten the risk of collision with other vessels, hence creating a physical hazard."

Yet as navies typically don't mount water cannon on vessels, firing one does not constitute an armed attack - a basis to invoke a Mutual Defense Treaty between Washington and Manila.

"Water cannons are certainly effective since China's objective is to control smaller Philippine ships," said Ray Powell, director of the SeaLight project at Stanford University in California who has been watching developments in the South China Sea.

"But not so effective for winning hearts and minds."

Edited by Taejun Kang.

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 June 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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'Systematic Discrimination': Taliban's Drastic Cut In Salaries Of Female State Employees Triggers Anger

By RFE/RL's Radio Azadi June 18, 2024

Shugufta, an elementary school teacher, earned around $300 per month under the previous Western-backed Afghan government.

But after the Taliban seized power in 2021, the extremist group cut the salaries of female government employees by half.

Despite her lower income, Shugufta was relieved to work as the country grappled with an economic meltdown after the Taliban takeover.

The hard-line Islamist group has barred thousands of women employed by the previous government from returning to their jobs. Only women whose jobs cannot be done by men according to the militants' strict interpretation of Shari'a law -- including doctors, nurses, and teachers -- have been permitted to work.

But in a major blow, the Taliban-led government last week issued a decree that set the monthly salaries of all female government employees at 5,000 afghanis, or around $70, regardless of their job, qualifications, or experience.

For many women, that means a drop of up to 75 percent in their wages at a time when Afghanistan is grappling with mass unemployment and rising poverty.

"It is impossible to live on this income," Shugufta's mother, Saliha, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi. "Our financial problems have skyrocketed."

The decision has been condemned by Afghan and international rights activists, who said the move illustrated the Taliban's discrimination against women.

Female state employees, some of whom are sole breadwinners, said they will struggle to feed their families.

The Taliban's decision came ahead of Eid al-Adha on June 17, one of the biggest holidays of the Islamic calendar.

"The Taliban didn't listen to our pleas to pay us our full salaries this month," said Muzhda, a female government employee from the western city of Herat.

Muzhda told Radio Azadi that she did not know how she would be able to afford rent, food, and medicine for her family, who depend on her income.

Afghanistan has been gripped by the world's largest humanitarian crisis. Millions of Afghans are on the verge of starvation, according to the United Nations.

Nazifa Haqpal, a British-based Afghan researcher, said the Taliban's decision to halve the salaries of female public workers "constitutes systematic discrimination."

"Women who work in government institutions and important fields like medicine are earning less while their male colleagues are receiving a higher salary," she told Radio Azadi.

Volker Turk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, said the "discriminatory and profoundly arbitrary decision further deepens the erosion of human rights in Afghanistan."

In a June 13 statement, he called on the Taliban to "rescind all laws, instructions, edicts, and other measures that discriminate against women and girls."

During its nearly three years in power, the militant group has severely curtailed women and girls' appearances, freedom of movement, and right to work and study.

Saji Behgam, an Afghan women's rights activist, said the Taliban's decision will cripple women-led households, including widows.

"Where should these women go?" she told Radio Azadi. "Should they just commit suicide?"

Written by Abubakar Siddique based on reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Azadi

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/afghanistan-taliban-women- employees-salaries/32998050.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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France Hails Deal To Provide Armenia With Howitzers As 'New Important Milestone'

By RFE/RL's Armenian Service June 18, 2024

French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said his country has signed a deal to provide CAESAR self-propelled howitzers to Armenia, a move that's likely to further raise anger in Azerbaijan and Russia toward France.

The contract comes as Yerevan edges closer to the West through military and other ties and further from traditional ally Russia, following Armenia's defeat last year by Caucasus archfoe Azerbaijan to retake Nagorno-Karabakh and other areas internationally recognized as Azerbaijani but controlled for decades by ethnic Armenians.

Lecornu announced the CAESAR deal on June 18 after a meeting in Paris with Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikian, hailing it as a "new important milestone."

He said Paris "continue[s] to strengthen our defense relationship" with Armenia.

The CAESAR is a self-propelled 155-millimeter, 52-caliber cannon whose range with advanced projectiles exceeds 50 kilometers.

It has been used extensively in the ongoing war in Ukraine against invading Russian forces and is compatible with NATO-standard ammunition.

Since Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian took over six years ago, Armenia has gradually shifted its diplomatic and military efforts away from Russia and toward the West.

At the same time, Yerevan has accused longtime power broker Moscow and the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization (SCTO) of offering little help to keep Azerbaijan at bay. The CSTO is an alliance of six ex-Soviet states -- Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

In a sign of rising tensions, Russia last month recalled its ambassador to Armenia for consultations without explanation after Pashinian accused two unnamed CSTO members of helping Azerbaijan prepare for a brief but intense offensive in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2020.

Russia has worked closely with Belarus in its war on Ukraine, including by staging invasion operations from Belarusian territory.

A week ago, Pashinian said Armenia would formally quit the CSTO, whose members "are not fulfilling their contractual obligations but are planning a war against us with Azerbaijan."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused Pashinian's administration of "leading things to the collapse of Russian-Armenian relations" at the behest of the West.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Pashinian discussed the worsening rift when they met in Moscow on May 8 after a Eurasian Economic Union summit.

Armenia and France signed agreements on increased cooperation in military supplies last fall, about a month after an Azerbaijani offensive retook its remaining lands around Nagorno-Karabakh from ethnic Armenian forces supported by Yerevan.

In December, the French Senate urged Armenia to accelerate its familiarity with howitzers as quickly as possible.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/armenia-france-defense-russia- azerbaijan-howitzer/32997862.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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Mali Seeks to Boost Military Capabilities With Russia's Assistance - Foreign Minister

Sputnik News

20240618

BAMAKO (Sputnik) - Mali's aim is to promptly bolster its military capabilities with Russia's assistance, and both countries are discussing a military equipment procurement program, Malian Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop told Sputnik.

"This visit is also a continuation of the dialogue on strengthening the strategic military partnership between our two countries. It is based on strengthening the combat capabilities of the Malian defense and security forces to achieve greater autonomy, as well as a military equipment procurement program," Diop said.

Recently, a Russian delegation headed by a deputy foreign minister visited Bamako. Diop stated that this trip demonstrates Mali's commitment to speeding up the implementation of a plan to enhance "military and defense capabilities".

 Sputnik

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Secretary Antony J. Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a Joint Press Availability

US Department of State

Remarks

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

Treaty Room

Washington, D.C.

June 18, 2024



SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good morning, everyone. In just a few weeks' time, we'll gather here in Washington for NATO's 75th summit, celebrating 75 years of strength, of unity, of growth, of innovation in our Alliance, but also, critically, looking forward to make sure that NATO is fit for purpose for the challenges of today and the challenges tomorrow, making sure that this Alliance continues to do what it's done so effectively for the last 75 years, and that's protect our people.

And I think it's an opportunity as well to remind all of our citizens about the power of collective defense - the power of collective defense as the best way to prevent conflict, to deter aggression, to avoid war. Because at the heart of NATO is a commitment from each Ally to come to the defense of any other Ally that may be the victim of aggression. And that means that a would-be aggressor, considering taking action, knows that if they pick a fight with one, they pick a fight with all. And that is the most effective, powerful way to do what we all want to do, which is to prevent war from occurring in the first place. So these investments that we're making in our defensive Alliance are the best possible investments we can make in preventing conflict, avoiding conflict, deterring aggression.

The Secretary General and I were together in Prague with all of our allies just a couple of weeks ago, working through the key decisions ahead of the July summit. And, of course, critically the Secretary General was here with President Biden yesterday working to help finalize these details and very important ones. We continue that conversation today.

We have very ambitious commitments that we're making as an Alliance going forward. We're demonstrating our enduring support for Ukraine and providing a strong bridge to Ukraine's membership in the Alliance. We're establishing a NATO command in Wiesbaden, coordinating training, security assistance, equipment - its transfer, its repair, its maintenance. We're strengthening our collective deterrence and defense. We're implementing the robust plans that Allies agreed to, the most robust plans for defense and deterrence since the end of the Cold War, meeting the long-term challenge that Russia poses to the transatlantic Alliance and to security. We're growing our defense industrial bases to make sure that all of our countries can effectively produce what's needed for our defense.

And critically - and you heard President Biden and the Secretary General address this yesterday - we are boosting our burden sharing, making sure that every Ally is standing up and carrying the weight of our collective defense. As the Secretary General announced yesterday, 23 allies - 23 allies out of the 32 - now meet the 2 percent target, the target of spending 2 percent of GDP on defense, a target established in 2014 at the Wales summit. When President Biden took office in 2021, nine allies were meeting that mark. Now, it is 23. And we've also seen, as the Secretary General said yesterday, an 18 percent increase in defense spending across the Alliance. That's the largest in a decade, and it is necessary to meet the challenges of this time.

We're also making sure that our Alliance is strengthening partnerships with other countries, including countries out of the transatlantic area, particularly deepening coordination, deepening cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific, who will be present at the summit, as well as within the transatlantic community with the European Union, a critical partner for all of us. The Alliance recognizes that security challenges in one part of the world impact another and vice versa. So what's happening in the transatlantic space has real consequences and implications for the Indo-Pacific and other areas, just as what's happening in the Indo-Pacific space has real implications for our own Alliance. And there's a recognition of that, and that recognition is turning into concrete and strong partnerships. Prime Minister Kishida may have said this best in the context of Ukraine when he said what's happening in Ukraine today may well be happening in East Asia tomorrow.

We're also adapting and building resilience to emerging threats - and this is also something that you'll see underscored at the summit - cyber, hybrid attacks and threats, as well as other challenges to security that we've seen manifest themselves in different ways in recent years, including things like pandemics. NATO has to be fit for purpose to deal with all of these.

Two other points I want to make quickly before turning it over to the Secretary General. I mentioned already that the summit will focus on bolstering Ukraine's long-term success. From day one, as the battlefield has evolved, so too has our support for Ukraine. Partners, the Alliance, the United States have all adapted and helped Ukraine deal with what it had to deal with in terms of warding off this Russian aggression.

Now, thanks to the supplemental, which passed Congress after many months - but it did pass, and it passed with overwhelming bipartisan support - we've now been working these recent weeks to speed all of that assistance to the front lines, to make sure that Ukrainians have what they needed in hand to deal with the ongoing Russian aggression. And we've seen, I think, that be very effective in terms of stabilizing the front lines and making sure that the Russians could be stopped in their offensive. It's making a big difference. Of course, as we've said all along, what makes the biggest difference is the extraordinary courage and resilience of the Ukrainians themselves, both in dealing with the challenges in Kharkiv and in the east, but also taking the fight as necessary to Russia and Crimea, as well as in the Black Sea.

The bilateral assistance agreement that the United States signed just a few days ago - President Biden and President Zelenskyy - that marks now the, I think, 17th bilateral security agreement that's been signed since President Biden announced this initiative on the margins of the G7 a year ago. And by the time of the summit, we expect that - the NATO summit, we expect that some 20 countries and maybe more will have concluded their bilateral security agreements with Ukraine. This is proof, clear proof, that all of our countries are with Ukraine for the long haul and that if Mr. Putin is counting on outlasting Ukraine or outlasting any of us, he is misguided; he's wrong. And again, I think you'll see at the summit further emphasis on that.

We're also, as necessary, imposing new sanctions on Russia to keep the pressure up, so that the aggression ultimately ends. And, among other things, we're looking at countries that are supporting Russia's defense industrial base, which is allowing Russia to continue the war, including China. As President Biden has made clear, we have a real concern not with the - not with weapons being supplied by China to Russia. That's not what they're doing. What they are doing, as you've heard me discuss many times, is providing critical support to Russia's defense industrial base. Some 70 percent of the machine tools that Russia is importing are coming from China; 90 percent of the microelectronics coming from China. And that has enabled Russia to keep that defense industrial base going, to keep the war machine going, to keep the war going. So that has to stop.

We, as well, are doing everything we can to provide the necessary support to Ukraine beyond the supplemental. You saw partners come together across the G7 and beyond to be able to use effectively some of the Russian sovereign assets that are primarily in Europe and that now are being leveraged to provide some $50 billion to Ukraine in additional assistance, and we'll continue to look at that. We had a very effective recovery conference just a few days ago as well, looking at other forms of enduring support for Ukraine, including in the energy sector.

The bottom line is this: The Ukraine strategy that we've had and that we've been acting on individually and collectively now for nearly two and a half years is showing effective results - effective results in making sure that Ukraine can ward off Russian aggression, and it's done that remarkably. Keep in mind Putin's objective from day one was to erase Ukraine from the map, to ends its existence as an independent country, to subsume it into Russia. That has failed.

But going forward, we want to make sure that Ukraine is a success, that it stands strongly on its own feet militarily, economically, democratically, and that's exactly what we're enabling Ukraine to do. And that is the mark of success going forward. Again, decisions that will be made at the summit will further that effort, and more to be said in a few weeks' time.

Finally, heading into the 75th summit, we have an Alliance that is stronger, that is bigger, that is more fit for purpose than at any time in recent years. That's thanks to the effort that every Ally has made, the commitments that every Ally has made, but it's also fundamentally thanks to the leadership of one individual, and that is the person standing beside me, the secretary general of NATO for this past decade, Jens Stoltenberg. Jens, you have led the Alliance at a time of historic change, historic challenge, and the results are there for everyone to see. This would not have happened without your leadership, and it's truly been extraordinary.

Now, some of you know that the secretary general is particularly fond of numbers, likes to recite them. I understand that you even told one interviewer that you could bring just one book to a desert island, it would be a book on statistics. (Laughter.) I have things I could say about that that I won't, but let's just remind a few numbers, a few statistics, because they do show what's happened over this remarkable decade of the secretary general's leadership: four new Allies in our Alliance - North Macedonia, Montenegro, Finland, Sweden - multinational battle groups in eight countries, enhancing NATO's forward defense posture; 75 percent of the citizens in Allied nations say that NATO is important to their security.

These numbers speak powerfully for themselves. At every step, the secretary general has set the tone. He's built consensus among the 32 countries. His vision, his achievements will pay dividends for this Alliance far into the future. So Jens's contributions ultimately can't be fully quantified, but neither can the gratitude of the United States and all of our Allies to you, Mr. Secretary General. Thank you.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, thank you for your kind words and thank you for your support throughout these years in different ways. Thank you also for your very strong commitment to NATO, to our transatlantic Alliance, and let me also thank you for your tireless efforts to end the suffering in the Middle East.

NATO was founded in Washington 75 years ago. Since then, the Alliance has been the ultimate security guarantee for all our members. Standing together, we prevent war and preserve peace. In NATO, the U.S. has 31 friends and Allies. Together, Allies represent half of the world's economic and half of the world's military might, advancing U.S. interests and multiplying America's power. NATO makes America stronger.

Yesterday, as you mentioned, Secretary Blinken, with President Biden I announced that NATO Allies are making major increases in defense spending. This year, defense spending across Europe and Canada is up 18 percent, the biggest increase in decades. Twenty-three Allies will meet the target of spending at least 2 percent of GDP on defense. This is more than twice as many as just four years ago. Since 2014, Europe and Canada have added over 640 billion extra in defense spending. This demonstrates a historic improvement in burden sharing within NATO. It shows that United States does not need to shoulder the burden alone and that the U.S. has a strong Alliance in which Allies are stepping up year after year.

And much of this increased defense spending is spent right here in the United States. Over the past two years, European Allies have signed contracts with American companies worth 150 - sorry, $140 billion U.S. Since 2014, NATO has undergone the most significant transformation in our collective defense in a generation. We are putting in place the most comprehensive defense plans since the Cold War. We have 500,000 troops at high readiness, and we are double the number of battle groups in eastern part of the Alliance. And with Sweden and Finland as members, we are stronger than ever.

Russia's war in Ukraine is a brutal assault on a peaceful democratic nation. This war is propped up by China, North Korea, and Iran. They want to see the United States fail. They want to see NATO fail. If they succeed in Ukraine, it will make us more vulnerable and the world more dangerous. So our support to Ukraine is not charity; it is in our own security interest. We all want this war to end, but the Russian occupation of Ukraine offers no peace, and capitulation to Putin offers no security. The stronger our support, the sooner the war will end, which is why I welcome the 10-year bilateral security agreement between the United States and Ukraine.

Europe is also doing its part, matching U.S. efforts in Ukraine, and at the NATO Summit this July here in Washington, I expect European Allies and Canada to come forward with more financial and military support, and that leaders will agree that NATO takes the lead in coordinating the security assistance and training for Ukraine. All of this will reduce the burden on the United States.

Secretary Blinken, I thank you and the U.S. for hosting the summit, which we all are looking forward to attend. At the summit, we will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the most successful alliance in history, but also make important decisions for the future. Thank you.

MR MILLER: The first question goes to Humeyra Pamuk with Reuters.

QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. Mr. Secretary, Mr. Secretary General, I'm very glad you like numbers. I have a number of questions, in true Washington fashion - (laughter) - multi-part questions that Secretary Blinken is particularly fond of.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: The number one is a very good number. (Laughter.)

QUESTION: Let me start with Gaza, then I'll turn to NATO. Mr. Secretary, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hosted - about an hour ago, conveniently timed for this press conference - a video talking about U.S. pause on some weapons to Israel, and said you assured him, last week that U.S. is working to remove those bottlenecks. Is this an accurate characterization of what you told him? If not, what did you tell him? Will the U.S. remove its hold on these bombs? And finally, have the ceasefire negotiators - excuse me - made any progress since last week? Are you more, or less, optimistic today about the prospects of a deal?

Let me turn to both of you. Russian President Vladimir Putin is going to North Korea, a first in 24 years, and the partnership of Russia, China, and North Korea seems to be solidifying and emerging as a front against West's rules-based order. How concerned are you about this partnership?

Mr. Secretary General, particularly for you, do you see a collective NATO role to contain this emerging front?

And back to both of you again. What specifics do you have on how much North Korea is contributing to Russia's war machine? And what is your understanding that what Moscow is giving Pyongyang in return? Thank you.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, Humeyra. So on the questions regarding Israel and Gaza, first, it's very important to remember that our security relationship with Israel goes well beyond Gaza. Israel is facing a multiplicity of threats and challenges, including in the north from Hizballah, from Iran, from the Houthis in the Red Sea, from various groups that are aligned against Israel and in many cases beholden to Iran. So the President's been very clear from day one that he will do everything he can to make sure that Israel has what it needs to effectively defend itself against these threats. And a big part of that as well is making sure that in providing that assistance to Israel, it has a strong deterrent, which is the best way to avoid more conflict, to avoid more war, to avoid what we're already seeing in Gaza spreading other areas, to other fronts. That's been one of our objectives from day one.

So we're committed to that. We, as you know, are continuing to review one shipment that President Biden has talked about with regard to 2,000-pound bombs because of our concerns about their use in a densely populated area like Rafah. That remains under review. But everything else is moving as it normally would move, and again, with the perspective of making sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself against this multiplicity of challenges.

With regard to the ceasefire negotiations, and you heard me talk about this at length during our trip, I'll just remind everyone once again that the entire world came together behind the proposal that President Biden laid out a few weeks ago - the entire world with one exception, and that was Hamas. Hamas came back with - after everyone else had said yes, including Israel, reconfirmed to me by Prime Minister Netanyahu when I was in Israel - Hamas came back with new conditions, new demands, including demands and conditions that actually went beyond what it had already previously accepted.

So we're working to see if we can bridge the gaps that Hamas has now created by not saying yes to the proposal that everyone else had agreed to, that was endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, countries around the world. And we have the negotiators, the mediators - Egypt, Qatar in particularly - working on this to see if we can bridge the gap.

As I've said before and I'll repeat again based on what we've seen in the - in recent days, I believe that the gaps are bridgeable, but that doesn't mean they will be bridged because ultimately Hamas has to decide. And it could decide again to continue to move the goalpost, to move the line out. If it continues to do that, the net result will be that people will continue to suffer horrifically every single day.

And you have to question whether one individual - living, we believe, hundreds of feet underground, relatively safe - is putting his own interests and his own views ahead of the interests, the needs, of the people that he purports to represent. There could be a ceasefire right now if they had said yes a week ago. So we'll continue to work this with urgency, with determination, to see if we can bridge the gap. But I can't tell you with conviction that we will because, again, you have Hamas that continues to move the line.

With regard to Mr. Putin and his travels to North Korea, look. We've seen, as you've said, Russia try, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine. And you heard the secretary general just reference this. North Korea is providing significant munitions to Russia, and other - and other weapons for use in Ukraine. Iran has been providing weaponry, including drones, that have been used against civilians and civilian infrastructure. And as I've mentioned a moment ago, the deep concerns we have about China, not in terms of providing weapons but in providing what Russia needs to keep its defense industrial base going and to produce itself more tanks, more munitions, more missiles - yes, these are the countries of concern.

And with regard to China in particular, as I said before, it can't, on the one hand, say that it wants better relations with countries in Europe while at the same time fueling the biggest security threat to Europe as a whole since the end of the Cold War. And the President heard that himself - President Biden heard that himself from our European partners who are part of the G7 just last week.

So we are very much concerned about this because this is what's keeping the war going. And the fastest way to end the war is for Putin to be disabused of the notion that he can outlast Ukraine and outlast all of Ukraine's supporters, but also, if he knows that the fuel he needs for his war machine won't be there any more. So if China in particular, which professes to have a strong interest in ending the war - if it really means it, it will stop fueling the war machine, and we'll continue to do everything we can to cut off the support that countries like Iran and North Korea are providing.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: I very much agree with what Secretary Blinken just stated. Putin's visits to North Korea demonstrates and confirms the very close alignment between Russia and authoritarian states like North Korea, but also China and Iran. And this also demonstrates that our security is not regional. It's global. What happens in Europe matters for Asia, and what happens in Asia matters for us. And this is clearly demonstrated in Ukraine, where Iran, North Korea, China are propping up, fueling Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.

So this idea that we can divide security into regional theaters doesn't work anymore. We are - everything is intertwined and therefore we need to address these challenges together. We are, of course, also concerned about the potential support that Russia provides to North Korea when it comes to supporting their missile and nuclear programs. We see how much military support Russia gets from North Korea but also from Iran, and how China is propping up their war economy.

And this is also one of the reasons why at NATO and at the NATO Summit here in Washington next month, we will further strengthen our partnership with our partners in the Asia-Pacific region - Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Japan - also to address the fact that the challenges they see, we see in Asia, in Asia-Pacific are directly linked to the challenges we face in Europe. And let me also say that I also fully agree that China cannot have it both ways. They cannot continue to have normal trade relationships with countries in Europe and at the same time fuel the biggest war we have seen in Europe since the Second World War. So at some stage this has to have consequences for China.

MR MILLER: Helle Svendsen with Nettavisen.

QUESTION: Thank you. My question also goes to both of you. Norway today still has a continued fishing cooperation with Russia. I am wondering how we should approach this moving forward, and if there are - or if you are concerned or we should be concerned about them taking advantage of this cooperationship in light of Russian intelligence.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: So which country?

QUESTION: Norway.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: Norway.

QUESTION: Fishing cooperation.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: Sorry, yeah, I know Norway.

QUESTION: Yes. (Laughter.)

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: No, so first of all 

SECRETARY BLINKEN: (Inaudible.)

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: Yeah. (Laughter.) So I'm not speaking on behalf of Norway. What I can say is that I expect all Allies to fully implement the sanctions we have agreed within the also EU framework and also individual Allies have imposed. Then beyond that (inaudible), I leave it to Norway to comment on how they implement the sanctions.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Yeah, and I agree with the secretary general. Thank you.

MR MILLER: Tom Bateman with BBC.

QUESTION: Thank you very much to both of you. If I could start with Mr. Secretary General. We heard the Secretary of State talk about hybrid attacks against NATO frontline countries, an issue he's talked about before particularly in Prague, and a view that NATO would respond collectively as is appropriate. What does that response look like? Perhaps you can elaborate on whether there is a response already, or is this something that you think should take place in the future? Do you retaliate or try and create deterrence? I'm just interested in how that happens. And is there evidence that such action can create deterrence?

And Mr. Secretary of State, Amos Hochstein has been in the region over the last few days in the Middle East. Can you report any progress on de-escalating tensions between Israel and Hizballah?

And on Gaza, an investigation by the Associated Press this week identified 60 Palestinian families in which at least 25 members have been killed, some of them involving four generations of the same family, many with more than 50 family members killed, and in one, 173 family members were killed. And I'm interested to understand that for Palestinians who hear what you say about a continuing conflict for just cause, but to them this feels like a war that seeks to destroy Palestinian society. What do you say to those people? How do you reconcile those views and those positions?

Thank you.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: On the Russian hybrid actions against NATO Allies in Europe, let me say that what we have seen over the last weeks and months is a surge in hostile actions by Russia against NATO Allies, and that includes sabotage, arson attempts, cyber attacks, and also trying to use migration as a tool to coerce NATO Allies. And we need to react to this in a calm and measured way, but at the same time to take it very seriously. And that's also why NATO Allies have agreed response options that Allies can take both individually and collectively.

On the NATO level, this is about increasing awareness, sharing intelligence, making Allies aware that this is not individual, not linked incidents, but this is actually a pattern of Russian behavior over some time. And I welcome also the U.S. sharing a lot of intelligence on these actions with other NATO Allies. Then it is about protecting our critical infrastructure, including undersea and cyber infrastructure. We're taking several steps to increase the protection of critical infrastructure.

And then, of course, many of these actions are met by individual actions in the individual member-states. So there have been several arrests across the Alliance. In the United Kingdom, in Poland, in Germany, in the Baltic countries, we have seen those behind these sabotage actions being arrested, and there are legal processes going on. So there is a mix of collective action by NATO and individual Allies taking the necessary legal steps to protect us against this Russian behavior.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: On Lebanon, so as I mentioned earlier, one of our objectives from day one, since October 7th, has been to prevent this conflict from spreading, including in the north. And as you mentioned, Amos Hochstein is in Lebanon, in the region working on this. We've all collectively been working on this for many months and intensely again in recent weeks. No one wants escalation. No one wants to see the conflict spread. And one of the paradoxes I think we have in this moment is I don't think any of the potential belligerents actually want to see a war or conflict spread. I don't believe Israel does. I don't believe Hizballah does. Lebanon certainly doesn't because it would suffer the most. I don't believe that Iran does. And yet you have momentum potentially in that direction because with the back and forth that goes on every day, there is always the possibility of miscalculation, of one side not fully seeing what the other is doing, and it's very important to do everything we can to arrest that and to find a diplomatic resolution to the challenge that exists for Israel as well as for Lebanon.

In Israel, there are something like 60 or 70,000 Israelis who have been forced from their homes. They've basically depopulated a big part of northern Israel because of the threat from Hizballah, because of Hizballah launching rockets into Israel and making life impossible. There are many Lebanese in southern Lebanon who are also not able to live in their homes and live in their towns. So we're working diplomatically to find a resolution to this so that people on both sides of the line have the confidence to be able to live in their homes and go back to their - where they live.

Now here again, so much of this comes back to the ceasefire. The most immediate way to empower our diplomacy and to be able to reach an agreement that allows people to return to their homes and live in security would be through a ceasefire in Gaza, because Hizballah has tied the actions that it's committing against Israel to Gaza. So if we get that ceasefire, I think that will make it more likely that we can find a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in the north.

With regard to the Palestinian families that you've discussed - on a human level, the suffering of little children, men, women, is horrific, and we see it every single day. People who are caught in a crossfire of Hamas's making as a result of a war that Hamas started are suffering every single day. And for all of us, this is a profoundly human tragedy. I've met with Palestinian Americans who've lost multiple members of their own families in Gaza, who shared with me the pictures of a little niece, a little nephew, a brother, a sister, a parent, a grandparent who's been killed in the months since October 7th.

And it's profoundly motivating in the wake of this suffering to want to do everything we possibly can to bring this to an end. The fastest way to do that - and this has been the case now for weeks, for months - is through the ceasefire that we've been working to achieve. And the biggest obstacle to achieving that ceasefire, again, remains Hamas and remains the decisions of perhaps one man, who is we believe hundreds of feet underground in relative safety, while the people he proports to represent are suffering every single day.

So we have to - all of us - put the interests of these many, many innocent families and people first and foremost. And that means that Israel has to do more - continue to do much more - to protect civilians, to make sure that they get the assistance they need. But it first and foremost means that Hamas has to make a decision. Is it actually looking out for the interests of Palestinian people? Is it looking out for its own interests at the expense of the interests of Palestinians who are suffering every single minute in Gaza?

The fastest way to bring this to a conclusion - tomorrow - is through this ceasefire. That's what we're looking to achieve.

QUESTION: Can I just follow up, just on the point about crossfire? Because many of these deaths were in airstrikes, and by definition - I mean, they're on a (inaudible) so this is not crossfire. And I've heard you use that description before, so I just wanted to clarify.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Yeah, look, on that - again, we've been on this as well, from day one, in trying to press Israel to do everything it can to avoid civilian causalities, to put a greater premium on civilian protection. And yes, we see that - we see this, too. It's - without justifying any particular airstrike - and certainly we've, ourselves, reported as a government, as the State Department, on numerous incidents where civilians have been killed or grievously injured, including through airstrikes. But as we've also said, this terrain is extraordinarily difficult, maybe uniquely difficult.

Because again, you have Hamas that not only is hiding deep underground in tunnels while the people it proports to represent are not, it's also hiding in apartment buildings, hospitals, schools, using those as places to plot, to plan, protect itself. But that means also that it's endangering thousands - tens of thousands - of children, women, and men. It launched this war on November[1] 7th. It conducts it in a way be retreating to places where it's hiding behind civilians that further endanger civilians. And it has not made the decisions necessary to stop it, which it could do right now.

MR MILLER: And the final question goes to Anders Tvegard with NRT.

QUESTION: Thank you, Matt. Mr. Secretary, how do you do? How can Ukraine trust your words of support when the recent bilateral agreement can be canceled with a six months' notice? And how confident are you that you will not need to ask Mr. Stoltenberg to extend his term as secretary general? And I didn't quite hear your answer to my colleague's question here on Israel. Is Netanyahu's - Prime Minister Netanyahu's characterization - is it true what he said about - that you - what you assured him last week?

Mr. Secretary General, China can't have it both ways. What kind of consequences should China - should be on China? And you want to secure the long-term help to Ukraine. You have been talking about a fund. If I understand it correctly, the Alliance has been lukewarm to an aid fund. What's your next step there? And if you soon get to read some more statistical books, what can you say about your possible successor? Thank you.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. With regard to the bilateral security agreements, first it's important to note that the United States signed our agreement last week. President Biden and President Zelenskyy signed it together. But we are not alone. Dozens of countries have either concluded or will conclude bilateral security agreements with Ukraine, each of which basically says the same thing, that we're committed individually, as well as through the work that will be formalized at the NATO summit, to supporting Ukraine in building a deterrent force for the future that can ward off aggression and, as necessary, deal with it. And each of these agreements is projected over a decade to, again, send a very strong message that each of us is in this for the long haul. And that is the determination and commitment of the United States.

I think the fact that ultimately the supplemental funding bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, both houses of Congress, again is indicative of the depth and strength of that support in the United States. And polling continues to show strong support in the United States for helping Ukraine, for making sure that it can stand on its own feet effectively, because that's what this is about. Any international agreement of one kind or another always has a mechanism in it for one of the parties to pull out of that agreement. That's standard operating fare in any of these agreements. But I think everything that we've seen, not just from the United States but from so many other countries, is an enduring commitment to Ukraine and making sure that it can stand strongly on its own feet. And I do not expect that to change.

With regard to the secretary general, look, I think many of us wish on one - on one level that this was a lifetime appointment because of - (laughter) - but I don't think the secretary general feels that way. And I'm confident, very confident, that the Alliance will come strongly together behind a new secretary general, and that when the current - when current secretary general - Secretary General Stoltenberg's term ends this fall, there will be a very strong secretary general in place to pick up the baton and carry the extraordinary work that this secretary general has done forward into the future for the Alliance.

And finally, with regard to the last question on Israel, I stand by exactly what I said a few minutes ago. Thank you.

QUESTION: Well, is Mr. Netanyahu telling the truth or not, Mr. Secretary?

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Again, I've been very 

QUESTION: Is his characterization correct or not?

SECRETARY BLINKEN: I've been as clear as I can possibly be.

QUESTION: You assured him that (inaudible)?

SECRETARY BLINKEN: I'm not going to talk about what we said in diplomatic conversations.

QUESTION: But he is talking about it.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: I can just say - I can just say, again, that we have a commitment to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself against a whole variety of threats. Gaza is part of it, but it far surpasses Gaza in terms of the threats they face. The President's committed to that. We continue to move these different cases through our system on regular order. We have one case that the President's talked about publicly, about the 2,000-pound bombs and concerns that we have about them being used in densely populated areas. That remains. We continue to work through that.

But there's been no change in our posture, which our posture is, again, to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself across these many threats. Many of the systems that are moving through our system are ones that have been on order for, in some cases, years. It takes a long time to move these things. And a number of the things that are going to Israel won't get there for years. That is the nature of the way this works.

But it's regular order, with the exception of that one system that we've talked about many times in public. Thank you.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: First, briefly, on the question about China, well, it's too early to say exactly what kind of consequences. But I think just in itself that more and more Allies recognize this, that it cannot continue the way it is like it is today, where China really tries to have a normal relationship with European NATO Allies and, at the same time, are enabling Russia to be - conduct - to conduct a war of aggression against a European country, the biggest security challenge we have faced in Europe since the end of the Second World War. And of course, this is then about how - unless China changes its behavior, what kind of consequences should then this have for, for instance, our trade relations? Too early to say, but it has to be an issue that we need to address, because to continue as we do today is not viable.

Then on support for Ukraine, as we are discussing and we are addressing many deliverables on Ukraine before the upcoming NATO summit. We have already a plan for NATO training and security assistance for Ukraine. We have seen new announcements, and I expect those are more announcement of more military support to Ukraine. I'm certain that we will also have language expressing that Ukraine will become a member of the Alliance.

And then you are right that I have also put forward proposals on a more long-term commitment because I strongly believe that the stronger our support is, the more credible our long-term commitment to Ukraine is, the sooner this war can end. The exact language, exact - what we will agree, is what Allies - or - are now discussed among Allies, and - but I'm confident we will have a good solution agreement by the summit.

Then, normally, I don't say anything about my successor because it's not for me to select my successor. But with the announcement by president - or, no, sorry, Prime Minister Orban today, I think it's obvious that we are very close to a conclusion in the Alliance for Allies to select the next secretary general. And I think that's good news. I think Mark Rutte is a very strong candidate. He has a lot of experience as prime minister, he's a close friend and colleague, and I therefore strongly believe that very soon the Alliance will have decided on my successor and that will be good for all of us, for NATO, and also for me. (Laughter.)

MR MILLER: Thank you.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone.

SECRETARY GENERAL STOLTENBERG: Yeah, thank you.

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Designating Elements of Milorad Dodik's Patronage Network

US Department of State

Press Statement

Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

June 18, 2024

The United States condemns the persistent efforts of Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik to erode the regional peace frameworks that have brought stability and security to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). Today, we are designating two individuals and seven entities that provide major sources of revenue for Dodik 's patronage network and enable his corruption.

U.S.-designated Milorad Dodik has used his official position to accumulate personal wealth through companies linked to himself and to his son, Igor Dodik. For instance, in 2024, Igor and Milorad exercised their control over senior BiH government officials to manipulate the draft BiH state budget so that a state-level contract could be awarded to an entity in Dodik's network, outside of the competitive process.

Dodik continues to be a destabilizing actor in the region. His recent proposal of a Republika Srpska "disassociation" from BiH continues his blatantly anti-Dayton Peace Agreement activity and threatens the peace and stability of the region. By attacking BiH's constitutional framework, Dodik threatens the country's future in Euro-Atlantic institutions.

The United States will use all tools at our disposal against those who facilitate Dodik's corruption and enable him to exploit the people of the Republika Srpska for his own benefit.

The Department of the Treasury's actions are being taken pursuant to Executive Order 14033, "Blocking Property and Suspending Entry Into the United States of Certain Persons Contributing to the Destabilizing Situation in the Western Balkans." For more information, please see Treasury's press release.

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Joint Statement on the U.S. - Austria Strategic Dialogue

US Department of State

Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

June 18, 2024

The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Republic of Austria on the occasion of the U.S. - Austria Strategic Dialogue.

Begin Text

The Governments of the United States and Austria held the annual U.S. - Austria Strategic Dialogue in Washington on June 17, 2024. The Strategic Dialogue was hosted by Ambassador James C. O'Brien, Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs. Austria was represented by Ambassador Gregor W. Kossler, the Austrian Foreign Ministry's Political Director. The meeting also featured senior representatives from the Austrian Foreign Ministry and the U.S. Department of State.

Topics discussed during the Strategic Dialogue included: global and regional security, including crisis management efforts; foreign information manipulation and malign influence; cybersecurity and ransomware, including the recent Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI) regional workshop hosted by Austria; energy security and sanctions enforcement in light of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine; relations with the Middle East; shared challenges related to the PRC; shared concerns regarding racism, antisemitism, and anti-Muslim hatred; the protection of human rights in light of new and emerging technologies; disarmament and non-proliferation policies; and shared support for European integration of the Western Balkans, including the joint program "Speak Up!" to engage the next generation of leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The United States and Austria expressed unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Austria and the United States are determined to continue to provide Ukraine and its people all the necessary political, financial, economic, humanitarian and diplomatic support for as long as necessary. They also discussed the situation in the Middle East and reaffirmed their joint commitment to striving for a peace settlement in Gaza while recalling the joint commitment to Israels security, the imperative for all remaining hostages held by Hamas to be returned, addressing the dire humanitarian situation, and securing access for humanitarian aid and the protection of civilians.

The Strategic Dialogue focused on shared interests and values and the commitment to increased cooperation on a broad range of issues, such as the State Partnership Program between Austria and Vermont, implementation of the bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on apprenticeship cooperation signed in 2022, and cooperation to counter foreign information manipulation. The two sides celebrated the recent launching of enhanced people-to-people exchanges, including the Memorandum of Understanding on Professional Development and Cultural Exchange and the U.S.-Austria Citizen Dialogue on Global Challenges. They noted that economic relations between Austria and the United States continue to be strong, robust, and flourishing.

As part of the U.S. -Austria Strategic Partnership, both sides emphasized the importance of transatlantic cooperation in addressing geopolitical and security issues and stressed the significance and contributions of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe to regional security. Austria, also in its capacity as a member of the European Union, and the United States are dedicated to strengthening their transatlantic relationship and reaffirmed their commitment to their shared values of democracy and human rights.

Both sides expressed a strong interest in continuing and deepening the bilateral strategic partnership. The parties plan to hold the next session of the Strategic Dialogue in Vienna in 2025.

End Text

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Treasury Targets Milorad Dodik's Network of Wealth Generating Companies, Including Prointer

U.S. Department of the Treasury

June 18, 2024

WASHINGTON  Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is designating a network of two individuals and seven entities that provide major sources of revenue for U.S.-designated Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik (Dodik) and his family. Dodik has used his official position to accumulate personal wealth through companies linked to himself and to Igor Dodik (Igor). For example, in 2024, Igor and Dodik exercised their control over senior Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) government officials to manipulate the draft BiH state budget so that a state-level contract could be awarded to Prointer ITSS d.o.o. Banja Luka Clan Infinity International Groupan entity in the networkoutside of the competitive process.

"The United States condemns Dodik's continued efforts to erode the institutions that have ensured peace and stability for Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region," said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson. "We will continue to expose the fraudulent schemes that enable Dodik and his family to exploit their own people for their personal benefit."

BACKGROUND

Dodik not only robs the people of BiH through his corrupt behavior but also threatens their safety and security through his repeated threats to pursue secession of the RS from BiH. Dodik's recent announcement of a formal decision to propose RS "disassociation" from BiH is a continuation of blatantly anti-Dayton Peace Accords (DPA) activity and threatens the peace and stability of the region. Through his corruption and secessionist rhetoric, Dodik continues to undermine BiH institutions and enrich his family at the people's expense, further risking BiH's future in Euro-Atlantic institutions.

The United States designated Dodik on January 5, 2022 pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14033 for being responsible for or complicit in, or having directly or indirectly engaged in, a violation of, or an act that has obstructed or threatened the implementation of, the DPA, as well as for corrupt activities. The United States also previously designated Dodik on July 17, 2017 pursuant to E.O. 13304 for obstructing or threatening to obstruct the DPA. Additionally, the United States. designated Dodik's adult children, Igor and Gorica Dodik, on October 20, 2023 pursuant to E.O. 14033 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Dodik, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14033.

DODIK FAMILY'S PATRONAGE NETWORK AND TIES TO PUBLIC TENDERS

Dodik used his official position to direct RS government contracts to a network of private companies that he and Igor oversee. While Igor controls many of the companies in this network, he obfuscates his personal connection to the companies by relying on distinct nominal owners and directors. Infinity International Group d.o.o. Banja Luka (Infinity) is a holding company in BiH that directly or indirectly owns or is the majority owner of at least five other BiH-based companies: Prointer ITSS d.o.o. Banja Luka Clan Infinity International Group (Prointer), Kaldera Company El PGP d.o.o. (Kaldera), Infinity Media d.o.o. (Infinity Media), K-2 Audio Services Banja Luka d.o.o. (K-2), and Una World Network d.o.o. (Una).

Additionally, Sirius 2010 d.o.o. Banja Luka (Sirius) is an information technology (IT) company that operates within the Dodik family network. Along with Prointer and Kaldera, Sirius is well-known in BiH for being awarded lucrative government contracts. Together, Prointer and Sirius provide IT goods and services to organizations across the RS and BiH governments, while Kaldera primarily operates in the engineering sector.

For many of these entities, Igor is often involved in business operations behind the scenes. For example, in April 2024, Sirius' then-director resigned and Igor was involved in hiring the replacement. Igor was ultimately responsible for ensuring that each company  including Prointer, Sirius, and Kaldera  made payments to meet its financial obligations. Additionally, Igor approved a plan to settle Kaldera's debt with a local bank and subsequently a loan between Prointer and Kaldera was promptly executed. Igor was also involved in organizing a meeting to discuss new contracts with his associates and Prointer's general manager.

Relatedly, this Dodik network often restructures corporate ownership to both hide the family's involvement in companies and to evade sanctions. For example, Prointer took ownership of Alternativna Televizija d.o.o. (ATV) in 2021 but quickly transferred ownership to Infinity Media and K-2 after OFAC designated ATV on January 5, 2022 pursuant to E.O. 14033 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Dodik. As of early 2024, K-2 was in the process of merging with ATV, at which point K-2 would absorb and retain all of ATV's assets and ATV would cease to exist.

Although Djordje Djuric (Djuric) and Milenko Cicic (Cicic) occupy ownership and management positions within the Network, respectively, Igor ultimately manages the financial decisions for network companies, including Prointer and Kaldera, and Igor's approval is needed on business decisions. Djuric, as ultimate owner of Infinity and its subsidiaries, is a close collaborator of Igor's who frequently assists him in financial activities. For example, Djuric and Igor deliberately took steps to obfuscate their involvement in an offshore bank account and entity over which they shared control, probably enabling Igor to move millions of euros overseas.

Cicic is the general director of Kaldera. In this role, Cicic and the general manager of Prointer reported to Igor about Kaldera and Prointer business activities. Additionally, on one occasion, Cicic represented Igor at a meeting with some of Igor's business partners and completed a series of financial transactions on Igor's behalf to those same business partners. It is important to note that the "Milenko Cicic" being designated today is a different person than the "Milenko Cicic" who was the sole owner of Kaldera until its sale to Prointer at the end of December 2019.

Prointer, Kaldera, Sirius, and Cicic are being designated pursuant to E.O. 14033 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Igor, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14033.

Djuric is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14033 for having materially assisted, sponsored, or provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods or services to or in support of, Igor.

Infinity is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14033 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Djuric, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14033.

Infinity Media is being designated pursuant to E.O. 14033 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Infinity, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14033.

K-2 and Una are being designated pursuant to E.O. 14033 for being owned or controlled by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Infinity Media, a person whose property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to E.O. 14033.

SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS

As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons.

In addition, financial institutions and other persons that engage in certain transactions or activities with the sanctioned entities and individuals may expose themselves to sanctions or be subject to an enforcement action. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person.

The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons (SDN) List but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, please refer to OFAC's Frequently Asked Question 897. For detailed information on the process to submit a request for removal from an OFAC sanctions list, please click here.

Click here for more information on the individuals and entities sanctioned today.

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The UK calls for urgent de-escalation in El Fasher: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.

18 June 2024

I will make three points. First, the United Kingdom welcomes the adoption, by this Council, of resolution 2736 which sent a clear call for urgent de-escalation in El Fasher and demanded that the Rapid Support Forces halt their siege of El Fasher immediately. The situation in El Fasher is appalling. Civilians have been terrorised by systematic attacks including on hospitals, shocking sexual and gender-based violence, and aerial bombardments. A full-scale attack on the city would be catastrophic for the 1.5 million Sudanese civilians sheltering there. We call on all sides to commit to protecting civilians and to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law.

Second, our briefers have just described the enormity of the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Over two million people are currently at severe risk of famine. We condemn the deliberate obstructionism, aid diversion, and continued looting of aid convoys that prevents life-saving supplies reaching those most in need. The Sudanese people will move further toward famine if humanitarian assistance continues to be restricted. We note the much-needed recent progress on issuing visas and travel permits and we call on the Sudanese Armed Forces to immediately open the vital Adre border crossing. The United Kingdom further calls on the warring parties to facilitate rapid, safe and unhindered access for humanitarian workers across regions they control.

Third, we welcome the continued efforts of civilian peace initiatives. The future of Sudan belongs to Sudanese civilians. For peace to be achieved, the warring parties must accept there is no prospect of victory on the battlefield, only further suffering. We call on the warring parties to immediately return to negotiations in good faith and without preconditions.

President, in closing, the United Kingdom reaffirms its full backing to Personal Envoy Lamamra and his work to coordinate regional mediation efforts to restore peace. The Security Council needs to continue to play its part in supporting those efforts. Thank you.

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Gaza: UN rights chief slams 'unconscionable death and suffering'

18 June 2024 - As the war drags on in Gaza, UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Tuesday condemned Israel's "relentless" attacks across the war-shattered enclave, while repeating longstanding calls for the release of all remaining hostages.

In his traditional opening address to the Human Rights Council now in session in Geneva, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights also reiterated serious concerns raised by his Office that war crimes have been committed by all sides since conflict erupted on 7 October, sparked by Hamas-led terror attacks on multiple targets in Israel.

120,000 killed or injured in enclave

"There has been unconscionable death and suffering," the UN rights chief told Member States, as he highlighted the widespread destruction caused by more than eight months of heavy fighting. "More than 120,000 people in Gaza, overwhelmingly women and children, have been killed or injured since 7 October, as a result of the intensive Israeli offensives," he said.

Rafah fallout

In addition to those maimed or killed by intense Israeli bombardment, Mr. Turk noted that since Israeli forces escalated operations into Rafah in early May, almost one million Palestinians have been uprooted "yet again", while aid deliveries have been squeezed, affecting humanitarian access even further.

"The arbitrary denial and obstruction of humanitarian aid have continued, and Israel continues to detain arbitrarily thousands of Palestinians. This must end," the UN rights chief insisted, echoing concerns raised by UN humanitarians who described how thousands of families sheltering in Deir A-Balah live in overcrowded conditions lacking sanitation, with access to just 0.7 litres of water per person, per day.

"Food distributions are irregular, and residents reported a range of health issues, such as hepatitis A, skin diseases, and respiratory illnesses," said the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, in an update on Friday.

West Bank in crisis, too

Linked to the emergency in Gaza, Mr. Turk also warned of the "dramatically deteriorating" situation in the occupied West Bank, amid rising attacks against Palestinians and the targeting of Israeli soldiers.

"As of 15 June, 528 Palestinians, 133 of them children, had been killed by Israeli security forces and/or settlers since October, in many cases raising serious concerns of unlawful killings," Mr. Turk said. "In the same period, 23 Israelis have been killed in the West Bank and Israel in clashes with or attacks by Palestinians, including eight members of Israeli security forces."

Lebanon connection

Linked to the Gaza conflict, the UN rights chief expressed deep concern over the possibility of a "full-scale war" between Lebanon and Israel.

Continuing rocket attacks and exchanged of fire across the shared border have killed 401 people in Lebanon, including paramedics and journalists, Mr. Turk said, while more than 90,000 people have been displaced in the country too.

In Israel, some 60,000 people have been forced to leave their homes and 25 Israelis have been killed. "Thousands of buildings have been destroyed. I reiterate my call for a cessation of hostilities and for actors with influence to take all possible measures to avert a full-scale war," the High Commissioner said.

Global cost of war

In a withering assessment of the impact of war around the world, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights also noted that the number of civilian deaths in armed conflict last year soared by 72 per cent.

Data gathered by Mr. Turk's Office showed that the proportion of women killed in 2023 doubled and that of children tripled, compared to 2023.

"Killings and injuries of civilians have become a daily occurrence," Mr. Turk said. "Destruction of vital infrastructure a daily occurrence. Devastating and reckless. Children shot at. Hospitals bombed. Heavy artillery launched on entire communities. All along with hateful, divisive, and dehumanising rhetoric."

Ukraine appeal

Turning to Ukraine, the UN rights chief said that the Russian armed forces' ground offensive into Kharkiv region had "destroyed entire communities". Residents "hid in basements, without electricity, water or adequate food, as the area came under intense attacks by explosive weapons with wide area effects", Mr. Turk continued, before condemning "repeated waves of large-scale attacks on energy infrastructure" that have crippled 68 per cent of Ukraine's electricity production capacity.

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Systemic gender oppression in Afghanistan may amount to crimes against humanity

18 June 2024 - The systemic oppression against Afghan women and girls is "so severe and extensive that they appear to form a widespread and systematic attack" which could amount to crimes against humanity said Richard Bennett, the independent rights expert monitoring Afghanistan, addressing the UN Human Rights Council on Tuesday.

The de facto authorities in Afghanistan, the Taliban, swept back into power in August 2021 and swiftly began curtailing women's rights, including imposing stricter dress codes, banning higher education for girls, excluding women from the job market, and restricting freedom of movement in public spaces.

This repression is bolstered by the Taliban's use of violence, mainly through murder, enforced disappearance, torture, rape and other inhumane acts, according to the UN expert's latest report.

"The Taliban's institutionalisation of its system of oppression of women and girls, and the harms that it is continuing to entrench, should shock the conscience of humanity," said Mr. Bennett.

Systemic 'gender apartheid'

Since the Taliban takeover, a series of verbal and written decrees have effectively eliminated the fundamental freedoms of Afghan women and girls, with violence being used to enforce their edicts.

According to the report, the systematised oppression will disempower Afghan women across generations, ingraining their inferior socioeconomic status and State-enforced dependence on men.

Mr. Bennett is firmly of the viewpoint that "gender apartheid" most fully encapsulates this ongoing injustice, given its institutionalised and ideological nature.

The Human Rights Council-appointed expert is recommending Member States recognise the concept of gender apartheid and propel its codification. He believes doing so will effectively address the unmatched human rights crisis confronting Afghan women.

'All tools' approach needed

The UN expert is calling on the Taliban to take immediate steps to restore the fundamental rights of women and girls. He is also pushing for an "all tools" approach to dismantle the Taliban's institutionalised system of gender oppression and to hold those responsible to account.

This would involve international accountability mechanisms including the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). It would also include pursuing cases at the national level.

Mr. Bennett opposes any legitimization of the Taliban leadership until concrete, measurable, and verified improvements on human rights take place.

"Afghans, in particular Afghan women and girls, have shown tremendous bravery and determination in the face of Taliban oppression. The international community must match this with protection and solidarity, including decisive and principled action, which places human rights front and centre," the UN expert said.

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WFP increases response in West and Central Africa to address rising hunger

18 June 2024 - The World Food Programme (WFP) will increase its food and nutrition assistance programme this month in West and Central Africa in hopes of reaching 7.3 million people as the June-August lean season is under way at a time when hunger levels are high and food resources are low.

The programme will aid the response plans of national governments in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Nigeria.

With the right amount of funding, WFP's initiative can reach 12 million people, but with diminishing resources available, humanitarians working with the programme have reached fewer people than anticipated.

This comes as malnutrition in West and Central Africa is reaching alarming levels along with a projection that 55 million people will face acute hunger during the lean season.

Chris Nikoi, WFP's Regional Director for Western Africa, said that this crisis exposes the need for "transformative solutions" to assist vulnerable families with food and other needs.

"We need to continue prioritising emergency response for those most in need," Mr. Nikoi said. "But, we need more investment in sustainable solutions to help strengthen food security, improve agricultural productivity and purchasing power of families at the right time and cushion economic and climate shocks."

Response aims

Many dealing with acute hunger in West and Central Africa have been left without assistance and risk having their situation worsened since funding for the programme has not kept "apace" with increasing crises in the region.

WFP said this is worrying since the 2024 seasonal forecast reveals weather that could disrupt farming and prolong the next lean season.

"The escalation of humanitarian needs far outstrips available resources," Mr. Nikoi said. "The only way out of this cycle is to prioritise durable solutions."

WFP's current aid

Currently, WFP said it is supporting "long-term transformative hunger solutions" and working on improving government systems that increase communities' shock resilience via social protection and investments in inclusive food systems.

WFP programmes have helped to, among other things, restore degraded lands to food and fodder production, support children's education, improve access to food and boost incomes across the Sahel and provide more frequent and diversified meals to civilians in Nigerian villages.

The programme said initiatives including "strengthening poor families' purchasing power with timely shock-responsive social protection schemes need to be prioritised and expanded as a humanitarian response alone is financially not sustainable and does not address the root causes of hunger and malnutrition."

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Briefing Security Council, Senior Humanitarian Official Warns 'Famine Is Imminent' in Sudan, Calling for End to Horrific Conflict

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9659th Meeting (AM)

SC/15735

18 June 2024



With famine impending, human rights violations on the rise and fighting escalating between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, the international community must work towards an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, senior United Nations officials and a women's rights activist told the Security Council today.

"I regret to inform you that Sudan continues to spiral into chaos," Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said as she underscored the humanitarian emergency in Sudan. After, 14 months of conflict, the lives of 800,000 people hang in the balance and 130,000 people have been displaced since 1 April. While El Fasher is the epicentre, it is also "just the tip of the iceberg", she said, adding that indiscriminate bombing continues to blight the daily lives of millions of people in Darfur, Kordofan, Khartoum and Aj Jazirah States.

"Famine is imminent," she cautioned, and over 2 million people in 41 hunger hotspots are at high risk of slipping into catastrophic hunger soon. The next few weeks are an important opportunity to deliver life-saving supplies before the rainy season starts and road conditions significantly worsen. She also drew attention to the grave violations of human rights in the country. With conflict-related sexual violence rampant, suicide rates among survivors are rising. While highlighting "three key asks"  protect civilians and infrastructure; ensure humanitarian access; and provide increased funding for the aid operation  she underscored that "the ultimate ask" is for this horrific conflict to stop.

"Civilians are in the line of fire; nowhere is safe for them," said Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations. Despite efforts by the United Nations and regional organizations, "we have not succeeded" in preventing the escalation of violence in Sudan, notably in El Fasher, she said. Welcoming the adoption of Council resolution 2736 (2024) last week, she highlighted the urgent need for a ceasefire.

Also pointing to the flow of sophisticated weapons, she said external players should use their leverage to bring about an end to the fighting. Mediation efforts have not secured a ceasefire, even though during his visit, the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, "registered the commitment" of both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, to the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect Civilians. Welcoming all regional mediation efforts, including the African Union's decision to begin preparing to convene a civilian political dialogue, she said it is critical that the voices of women and youth are heard.

The Council also heard from Limiaa Ahmed, Senior Programme Director at the Sudan Family Planning Association, who highlighted the situation of women and girls in the war, as well as their contributions to humanitarian efforts. Noting that she fled the country in 2023, she described the conflict as a war on women. "Sudanese women have paid the price of this war with their lives and with their bodies," she observed. They face the risk of sexual violence and exploitation in displacement, in transit, in temporary shelters and at border crossings. In areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces, they have been abducted and held in "inhumane and degrading slave-like conditions", she said.

Her organization, she added, has delivered over 33 million sexual and reproductive health services through its 15 branches across Sudan over the last 12 months. Its clinics have been burned and looted; yet it has worked under these difficult conditions to deliver health services, and socioeconomic and psychosocial support. Noting that women-led organizations have "spared no effort" to assist those affected by gender-based violence, she stressed that without them, there can be no peace in the country. "Millions of Sudanese women and girls are looking to this Council to act now," she said.

In the ensuing discussion, many Council members urged warring parties to resume dialogue and stressed the importance of protecting civilians. Several speakers called for an end to external interference, and noted the vacuum left in the wake of the termination of United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan (UNITAMS). That Mission, in accordance with Council resolution 2715 (2023), concluded its operations in February. The discussion also saw a heated exchange between the representatives of Sudan and the United Arab Emirates.

The Council's failure to address the situation, Sudan's delegate said, is empowering "a unique terrorist model". He condemned the United Arab Emirates' support for the militias, and drew attention to the six United Arab Emirates passports that were found a week ago in Khartoum in joint operations perpetrated by the Rapid Response Forces. "We found them in the heart of the battlefield," he said, demanding that the United Arab Emirates stay away from his country.

The military aggression launched by the Rapid Support Force militias is pushing millions of people to live on humanitarian aid and turning his country into "a destructive settlement", he said. Khartoum stands ready to immediately implement a ceasefire in El Fasher if the Rapid Support Force ends the siege and withdraws. Also rejecting the claim that his country is on the brink of famine, he said that "the grain production in Sudan is far from famine". Further, his Government is taking measures to protect civilians and ensure that its armed forces are not engaged in any sexual or gender-based violence.

Responding, the representative of the United Arab Emirates rejected this statement as "ludicrous" and said his country has already responded to these allegations. He also highlighted the United Arab Emirates' aid contribution to Sudan and dismissed the "excuses and finger-pointing" from the Sudanese Armed Forces. Instead of grandstanding in international fora, they should take the responsibility for ending the conflict they began, he added. "What are you waiting for?", he asked, questioning why the Sudanese Armed Forces did not come to the Jeddah talks if they seek an end to the conflict. The Sudanese people deserve a credible political process and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid, he said.

Unfortunately, civilians are bearing the brunt of this conflict, particularly women, children and the elderly, noted the representative of Guyana, also speaking for Algeria, Mozambique and Sierra Leone. "Those external parties fuelling the conflict, whether through the supply of arms and ammunition, recruitment, financing or any other means" must stop immediately, she said, also expressing concern that the Humanitarian Response Plan remains only 16.3 per cent funded. In the absence of a UN mission on the ground, there is an urgent need for continued monitoring and reporting on human rights violations and on protection matters, she added.

The representative of the United States recalled that the termination of UNITAMS followed Sudanese authorities' decision that the Mission no longer served the people's needs. Since that vote in December 2023, the catastrophe has only worsened, she said, citing reports that "some Sudanese have been forced to eat tree leaves to try to survive". The Sudanese warring parties are not concerned about the Sudanese people, she said, calling on the Council to take further action to achieve peace for Sudan's people.

Along similar lines, the representative of the Republic of Korea, Council President for June, speaking in his national capacity, stressed that "the UN's role is more essential in Sudan than anywhere else." He urged the Council to discuss the necessity of peace operations in Sudan in the wake of UNITAMS' termination.

However, the representative of the Russian Federation said the United Nations' reputation needs restoring after "the unsuccessful activities" of UNITAMS' leadership. "It is unacceptable for the difficult humanitarian situation to be used as a pretext for intervention in the domestic affairs of Sudan," she added. Security Council sanctions have not helped normalize the Darfur region's situation, she said, stressing that the sovereign Council of the Republic of Sudan is that country's highest legitimate governing body and cautioning against the imposition of "dubious socioeconomic schemes and universal, so-called 'democratizing' templates" on Khartoum.

REPORTS OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL ON SUDAN AND SOUTH SUDAN

Briefings

MARTHA AMA AKYAA POBEE, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations , said that, despite efforts by the United Nations and regional organizations, "we have not succeeded in preventing the escalation of violence in [Sudan], notably in El Fasher". Expressing concern about atrocities along ethnic lines, severe shelling and aerial bombardment in densely populated areas, she said that from 16 April to 9 June, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) documented 192 civilian deaths. "Civilians are in the line of fire; nowhere is safe for them," she said, condemning the attacks on the South Hospital in El Fasher carried out by Rapid Support Forces on 8 June. Stressing the need for a ceasefire to alleviate human suffering and pave the way for a broader cessation of hostilities, she said the adoption of Council resolution 2736 (2024) last week is an important signal.

Noting that it underlines the well-established responsibility of warring parties to abide by international humanitarian law, she said the parties must heed this call without delay. The fighting between warring parties continues to rage and is escalating, including in Greater Khartoum, the Kordofan regions and Gezira State. Highlighting a horrific attack in the village of Wad al-Noora, allegedly by the Rapid Support Forces, she said the risk of a conflict spillover remains high. Also pointing to the flow of sophisticated weapons, she said external players should use their leverage. Turning to the appalling human rights situation, she noted several violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws. This includes summary executions of civilians, the arrest and detention incommunicado of hundreds of individuals as well as widespread conflict-related sexual violence, she said, stressing the urgent need for meaningful accountability.

Mediation efforts have not secured a ceasefire, she said, expressing regret that there is no indication that the important discussions held in the context of the Jeddah platform will resume soon. "We cannot afford to be passive bystanders," she underscored. Recalling the visit to the region by the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, she said that, despite fundamental differences between the parties, he "registered the commitment of both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, to the Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect Civilians, signed on 11 May 2023". Outlining the Personal Envoy's mediation endeavours alongside regional partners, she welcomed the Cairo communique of 12 June and noted Djibouti's offer to host a retreat for international mediators and the African Union's decision to launch a preparatory process for convening a civilian political dialogue. It is critical that the voices of women and youth are heard, she said, calling on warring parties to make "decisions of historic nature and scope".

EDEM WOSORNU, Director of Operations and Advocacy, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs , underscored the humanitarian emergency in Sudan, noting that this is the sixth time her Office has briefed the Council on the situation in less than four months and the twelfth time since the conflict broke out in April 2023. "Today, I regret to inform you that Sudan continues to spiral into chaos," she said. Fourteen months of conflict have created a nightmare for civilians in Sudan, with El Fasher at the epicentre. The lives of 800,000 people hang in the balance. Bombing and shelling continue in densely populated areas, causing widespread and long-term harm to civilians and severely disrupting the essential services they depend on. At least 130,000 people have been displaced since 1 April, mainly south to other parts of Darfur and west into Chad where resources and basic services are already extremely stretched and, in some cases, non-existent.

"Sadly, the violence in El Fasher is just the tip of the iceberg," she warned, noting that the 5 June attack by the Rapid Support Forces in Wad Al-Noura village in Aj Jazirah State killed more than 100 people, including dozens of children, she reported, adding that indiscriminate bombing continues to blight the daily lives of millions of people in Darfur, Kordofan, Khartoum and Aj Jazirah States. Conflict-related sexual violence remains rampant. According to reports from local women-led organizations, suicide rates among survivors are rising and access to gender-based violence services is shrinking. The Secretary-General's annual report on children and armed conflict found that grave violations against children in Sudan have increased by a staggering 480 per cent  from around 300 violations in 2022 to over 1,700 in 2023. Six aid workers  all of them Sudanese nationals  have been killed over the last six weeks, bringing the total number of humanitarian personnel killed to 24 since the war started.

"Famine is imminent," she cautioned, citing almost 5 million people facing emergency levels of food insecurity. Nine in 10 of these people are in conflict-affected areas in Darfur, Kordofan, Aj Jazirah and Khartoum States. Over 2 million people in 41 hunger hotspots are at high risk of slipping into catastrophic hunger in the coming weeks. About 7,000 new mothers could die in the next few months if they don't get access to food and health care. Across Sudan, women are dying because of complications during pregnancy or childbirth. If farmers do not immediately receive the certified seeds they need for the planting season, the food security situation will worsen even further. "The countdown is real," she said, adding: "We have just a few weeks to deliver life-saving supplies before the rainy season starts and road conditions significantly worsen."

She went on to acknowledge measures by the Sudanese authorities over the past six weeks to facilitate humanitarian operations, she said that, since 1 April, 98 per cent of travel permits submitted by UN agencies have been approved. "The facilitation we have seen over the past month and a half needs to be sustained and expanded," she said, citing plans to move more than 600 trucks cross border or cross line in the second half of June and July to bring in 18,800 metric tons of supplies to support more than 1 million people in need. However, the humanitarian appeal is woefully underfunded at $441 million or 16 per cent of the total $2.7 billion requirement. In that regard, she welcomed the announcement by the United States last week to provide an additional $315 million for the humanitarian response in Sudan and neighbouring countries and that of the United Arab Emirates to allocate $70 million of its $100 million pledge in Paris to UN humanitarian agencies. "We are in a race against time to avert massive loss of life in this unprecedented protection and food security crisis in Sudan," she said, reiterating "three key asks": to protect civilians and the infrastructure they need for survival; to ensure unimpeded, sustained and expanded humanitarian access to people in need; and increased funding for the aid operation. But, "the ultimate ask" is for this horrific conflict to stop, she stressed, urging the Council and Member States to do everything in their power to bring this war to an end.

LIMIAA AHMED, Senior Programme Director, Sudan Family Planning Association , recalling that she fled Sudan in 2023 because of the war, said that the latest conflict in her country has killed more than 16,000 people, displaced nearly 10 million and pushed 18 million into acute food insecurity. "The conflict is also a war on women," she emphasized, as they are the primary targets of gender-based violence and the majority of those displaced and adversely affected by hunger. "Sudan is now one of the world's largest displacement crises, and is on the cusp of becoming the world's largest hunger crisis, with UN officials warning that famine is imminent," she added. As needs have grown, so have the challenges to humanitarian assistance and service delivery  in March and April, some 860,000 people did not receive aid in Kordofan, Khartoum and Darfur due to violent clashes and bureaucratic restrictions.

Also spotlighting escalating violence by the Rapid Support Forces in El Fasher, she said that there have been at least 200 people killed, over 1,000 civilians injured and over 129,000 displaced. Additionally, an estimated 1.8 million people in El Fasher are at imminent risk of famine and in desperate need of humanitarian assistance. Underscoring that there will be "catastrophic" consequences for civilians without urgent international action to stop the war in Sudan, she said: "I am here to ask for your help, as the people of Sudan can wait no longer." For their part, Sudanese women and girls face the risk of sexual violence and exploitation in displacement, in transit, in temporary shelters and at border crossings, increasing rates of forced marriage and lack of access to sexual and reproductive health services in countries hosting the displaced. Further, in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces, women and girls have been abducted and held in "inhumane and degrading slave-like conditions", she reported.

"I have seen some of these facts and figures play out in reality," she went on to say, noting that her organization has delivered over 33 million sexual and reproductive health services through its 15 branches across Sudan over the last 12 months. She also said that her organization  "like all other Sudanese civil society organizations"  has worked under difficult, distressing conditions to deliver health services, socioeconomic and psychosocial support and capacity strengthening. Due to the ongoing conflict, one of its staff has been killed, its clinics have been burned and looted, and it had to relocate its headquarters to an area not controlled by the Rapid Support Forces. While women-led organizations have "spared no effort" to assist women and girls affected by gender-based violence, she said that the international community must support and fund them.

Recalling the adoption of resolution 2736 (2024)  "an important step"  she urged the Council to ensure its full implementation. She also called on donors to scale-up funding for the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan for Sudan, which was only 16 per cent funded as of May, and to expand funding for local responders  "the backbone of the response to the current crisis". Given the scale and urgency of this crisis, the Council must identify credible options on the ground to ensure humanitarian operations across Sudan and document violations of international law. "Sudanese women have paid the price of this war with their lives and with their bodies," she observed, underscoring that there can be no peace in Sudan without women  whose voices must be at the heart of prevention, participation, protection and recovery efforts. She concluded: "Millions of Sudanese women and girls are looking to this Council to act now."

Statements

The representative of the United Kingdom , stressing that the situation in El Fasher is appalling, said "civilians have been terrorized by systematic attacks, shocking sexual and gender-based violence and aerial bombardments". A full-scale attack on the city would be catastrophic for the 1.5 million Sudanese civilians sheltering there, he observed, calling on all sides to commit to protecting civilians and abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law. On the enormity of the humanitarian crisis in Sudan  with over 2 million people currently at severe risk of famine  he condemned the deliberate obstructionism, aid diversion and continued looting of aid convoys that have prevented life-saving supplies from reaching those most in need. "The Sudanese people will move further towards famine if humanitarian assistance continues to be restricted," he warned, calling on the Sudanese Armed Forces to immediately open the vital Adre border crossing. He further urged the warring parties to facilitate rapid, safe and unhindered access for humanitarian workers across regions they control and immediately return to negotiations in good faith and without preconditions.

The representative of Guyana , also speaking for Algeria , Mozambique and Sierra Leone , said the conflict in Sudan has created a dire humanitarian crisis and caused increased civilian casualties, the destruction of critical civilian infrastructure and widespread displacement. Calling on the parties to commit to a cessation of hostilities and to lay foundations for a sustainable solution to the conflict, she regretted that civilians are bearing the brunt of this conflict, particularly women, children and the elderly. The recruitment and use of children, the killing, maiming and commission of sexual violence, and attacks on schools and hospitals are violations of international law, she underscored. The international community must support the efforts of the humanitarian agencies to provide support to the Sudanese people, including those internally displaced or seeking asylum around the region, she added.

Stressing the need for safe and unhindered access to all those in need, she also highlighted the importance of cross-line and cross-border aid delivery, as well as the sustained facilitation of administrative requirements to assist the most vulnerable. In the absence of a UN mission on the ground, there is an urgent need for continued monitoring and reporting on human rights violations and on protection matters. All mediation efforts, particularly the Jeddah talks and initiatives being led by the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy and the African Union High-level Implementation Panel must be supported. Further, donor partners must urgently scale up humanitarian assistance and funding. It is deeply worrying that the Humanitarian Response Plan remains only 16.3 per cent funded, she said, calling on "those external parties fuelling the conflict, whether through the supply of arms and ammunition, recruitment, financing or any other means, to stop immediately".

The representative of Ecuador condemned the massacre perpetrated in Wad alNoura, the attack on the South Hospital in El Fasher and the death of humanitarian workers. He also repudiated the ethnic violence that  according to several reports  has been committed by the Rapid Support Forces. Considering these facts, the efforts of the Human Rights Council fact-finding mission in Sudan and the International Criminal Court to investigate human rights violations and crimes against humanity are timely and must be supported. "The humanitarian crisis in Sudan, especially in the Darfur region, is alarming and unsustainable," he said, calling for the implementation of Council resolution 2736 (2024) on El Fasher, which calls for an immediate ceasefire. "Security Council resolutions are binding," he stressed.

The representative of the United States , recalling the termination of the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in the Sudan (UNITAMS), said this followed Sudanese authorities' decision that the Mission no longer served the people's needs. "Of course," she noted, "this is despite the fact that the Sudanese warring parties are not concerned about the Sudanese people." Since that vote in December 2023, the catastrophe has only worsened and civilians have paid an unacceptable price. "Reports indicate that some Sudanese have been forced to eat tree leaves to try to survive," she said, also pointing out that El Fasher  once one of the last havens for civilians  has been indiscriminately attacked by the Rapid Support Forces. Underscoring that "there is no military solution to this senseless war", she noted that the United States recently announced $315 million in additional humanitarian assistance for Sudan. For its part, the Council must "take further action until we have achieved peace for the Sudanese people", she stressed.

The representative of Slovenia stated that, "for too long, war has inflicted suffering on the people of Sudan," devastating every facet of Sudanese society. "The path to sustainable peace is not paved with military action and weapons, but through dialogue and political process," he observed, calling on the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces to silence their guns and engage in efforts for an immediate and durable ceasefire. The conflict has disproportionately affected women and girls, exposing them to the pervasive use of sexual violence as a weapon of war. Calling for accountability, he supported the efforts of the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court in investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur and prioritizing the investigations of crimes involving sexual, reproductive and other gender-based violence. Ongoing attacks on the health-care system in Sudan are depriving women and girls  especially pregnant women  of essential, life-saving reproductive health and protection services, he added.

The representative of France , welcoming the adoption of Council resolution 2736 (2024) last week, stressed that the Rapid Support Forces must put an end to the siege of El Fasher. The security of civilians is at stake, and all parties must respect their obligations in that regard, she said. Condemning attacks of medical and humanitarian facilities, she called for the safe and unhindered access of humanitarian relief supplies. "Aid must reach all those that need it," and commitments made by international partners at the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and neighbouring countries, held in Paris in April, must be honoured. Stressing the need to end all external aid to warring parties, she said that those who commit violations of international humanitarian law or the arms embargo are subject to sanctions. Welcoming the efforts of the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, she said her country will continue to mobilize to ensure that the Sudanese people have a credible and sustainable alternative to military power.

The representative of the Russian Federation said that the Sudanese authorities were not invited to participate in a Paris international conference in April on the delivery of humanitarian assistance in Sudan. "It is unacceptable for the difficult humanitarian situation to be used as a pretext for intervention in the domestic affairs of Sudan," she said. Noting that the diplomatic efforts of the United States and Saudi Arabia "have not yet yielded tangible results", she expressed hope that the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy can restore the reputation of the United Nations after "the unsuccessful activities" of the former leadership of UNITAMS. Moscow views the sovereign Council of the Republic of Sudan as that country's highest legitimate governing body and advocates for preserving its unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty. "The imposition on that country of external, dubious socioeconomic schemes and universal, so-called 'democratizing' templates has already demonstrably backfired," she said. Security Council sanctions have not helped normalize the Darfur region's situation. She asserted that any new restrictions, including a possible expansion of the sanctions regime beyond Darfur, will not help usher in peace.

The representative of Malta condemned the use of sexual and gender-based violence against women and girls, noting that the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict "arrives at a timely moment". Expressing concern over the lack of specialized protection capacity for women and children following the closure of UNITAMS, she called on the warring parties to issue and implement command orders on sexual and gender-based violence and grave violations against children  including the prohibition of attacks on, and the military use of, schools and hospitals. She also stressed that the proliferation of weapons across Sudan, fuelled by external actors, has led to further violence and suffering, urging all Member States to refrain from external interference and comply with the arms embargo. "Efforts should be steered, instead, towards mediation between the parties," she said, adding that "dialogue and mediation are the only paths to end this war".

The representative of Japan urged the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces to immediately cease hostilities throughout Sudan  including localized conflicts  and reach a ceasefire agreement as soon as possible. She further called on all parties to allow and facilitate full, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access, including cross-border and cross-line, commending recent improvements in facilitation by the Sudanese authorities in issuing visas and travel authorizations. Further, the arms-embargo measures must be strictly implemented as "supplies of weapons and ammunition from outside only prolong this conflict". Accordingly, she called for an end to any external interference that fuels the conflict and foments instability. Further, all parties to the conflict must ensure an orderly transition to civilian rule while securing meaningful participation of women in political decision-making, she added.

The representative of Switzerland stressed that respect for international law, in particular international humanitarian law and human rights law, is "not a choice, but an obligation". Highlighting verified cases of recruitment of children for active combat, in particular in Darfur, she said Member States must respect the arms embargo, whose violations are subject to sanctions under Council resolution 1591 (2005), and refrain from any external interference that fuels the conflict. Condemning the attack on South Hospital in El Fasher, one of the only remaining functioning hospitals in the region, she said "a negotiated and lasting solution remains the only way out of this conflict." It will not be resolved on the battlefield, she said, adding that the parties must return to the negotiating table to find a peaceful, inclusive and Sudanese-led solution.

The representative of China welcomed the recent opening of some humanitarian routes and the facilitation of visa issuance by the Sudanese authorities, expressing support for constructive cooperation between the Government and its international humanitarian partners to continuously deliver sufficient aid to the Sudanese people in need. Cross-border humanitarian access is a matter of a country's sovereignty. International humanitarian organizations should remain neutral and impartial and obtain prior consent of the Government for such operations. Citing a severe funding shortfall, he urged the international community, especially traditional donors, to fully and timely honour their commitments. "Military means will lead nowhere, and political settlement is the only way to usher in peace in Sudan," he declared.

The representative of the Republic of Korea , Council President for June, spoke in his national capacity to underline the need for hostilities to cease, as well as the importance of local mediation mechanisms towards this end. All parties in Sudan must comply with their obligations under international law, and he urged them to exercise strict command and control systems over their forces. While noting Sudanese authorities' recent efforts to facilitate humanitarian aid, he called for further cooperation  "including the reopening of the crucial Adre border crossing" pursuant to resolution 2736 (2024). Additionally, external interference must cease, and the Sudanese parties to the conflict must realize, he stressed, that "this senseless war cannot be justified for any reason, nor does victory in such a war confer legitimacy". Stressing that "the UN's role is more essential in Sudan than anywhere else", he urged the Council  in the wake of UNITAMS' termination  "to discuss the necessity of peace operations in Sudan as one possible option".

The representative of Sudan condemned the military aggression launched by the Rapid Support Forces, noting their intention to put an end to the protection of civilians and disrupt the agricultural season. This will lead to further food insecurity and displacement, "push millions of people to live on humanitarian aid" and turn Sudan into "a destructive settlement", he warned. The Council failed to address the situation, including the United Arab Emirates' support for the Rapid Support militias. Such failure will empower "a unique terrorist model"  including displaced, diaspora and migrants  who want to destroy Sudan, he added. Noting his Government's commitment to international law, he said it prioritizes the protection of civilians. The Sudanese Armed Forces issued warnings through the media for citizens to leave any areas that are under the control of the rebels, who have targeted civilian infrastructure.

Sudan is committed to protecting humanitarians and ensuring their access "wherever they are", he continued, noting that relief enters through the crossing agreed upon with the Government of Sudan. Khartoum is ready to immediately implement a ceasefire in El Fasher on the condition that the Rapid Support militias abide by the terms of the 11 May Jeddah agreement. "They must end the siege and withdraw their forces to the pre-siege location," he asserted, adding that their besiegement of El Fasher has exacerbated the humanitarian situation. Turning to sexual violence committed by the Rapid Support Forces, he stressed that Sudan is taking measures to protect civilians and ensure that the Sudanese Armed Forces are not engaged in any sexual or gender-based violence. He rejected the claims that Sudan is on the brink of famine: "Famine is related to the provision of grains from the production or through the imports  the grain production in Sudan is far from famine."

The representative of the United Arab Emirates rejected the "ludicrous allegations" made by Sudan's delegate, adding that that the Sudanese Armed Forces is one of the warring parties to this conflict. His country is allocating $70 million in aid through key partners and the United Nations, he said, noting other aid contributions, as well. Calling on both sides to protect civilians and infrastructure and move towards a civilian transition, he said the Sudanese people deserve peace and justice, a credible political process and unhindered flow of humanitarian aid. "Excuses and finger-pointing only prolong their suffering," he said, asking the Sudanese Armed Forces why they won't come to the Jeddah talks if they seek an end to the conflict. "What are you waiting for?", he asked, adding that, instead of grandstanding in international fora, they should take the responsibility for ending the conflict they began.

The representative of Sudan , taking the floor a second time, said that the United Arab Emirates is sponsoring terrorism. His delegation has presented evidence, including six Emirate passports. A week ago, they were found in Khartoum in joint operations perpetrated by the Rapid Response Forces. "We did not steal these passports from the suitcases of [United Arab Emirates] citizens," he said, adding: "We found them in the heart of the battlefield." That country must stay away from Sudan and stop its support to the Rapid Response Forces. He had asked the Council to openly mention and condemn the United Arab Emirates so that it would stop its involvement.

The representative of the United Arab Emirates , taking the floor a second time, pointed to the "shameful abuse" of the Council by one of the Sudanese warring parties. That representative is using the organ as a platform to spread false allegations against the United Arab Emirates and distract from grave violations happening on the ground, he stressed, adding that "there will be no military victory" in Sudan as "the only way to settle will be at the negotiating table". Noting that the "representative of the Sudanese Armed Forces" referred to allegations sent via letter to the Council, he said that his country has responded to these false claims. And, as a further letter will be transmitted, he said: "We will respond to that letter once more."

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Air Force Reserve supports joint exercise Ivy Mass 2024

Published June 18, 2024

By Tech. Sgt. Justin Norton

302nd Airlift Wing

PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. (AFNS) -- The 302nd Airlift Wing participated in a 10-day exercise stressing command and control capabilities in a scenario simulating a large-scale conflict from June 3-13th, at Peterson Space Force Base and Fort Carson, Colorado.

The 4th Infantry Division's Ivy Mass exercise called for the Army, Air Force, Space Force and Marine Corps to work together in a multi-domain environment with 4ID operations in a fire support coordination role throughout the exercise.

"The Air Force contributed as a critical component to live training objectives with tangible real-world effects," said Army Maj. Matthew Van Vliet, 4 ID's lethal effects artillery planner for the exercise. "The capabilities provided by the C-130 facilitated the completion of mission essential tasks for both Army active and National Guard components."

The 302 AW flew 17 sorties employing C-130H Hercules aircraft in support of the exercise and accomplished more than 1,300 training events across multiple types of missions to include airdrop, air mobility and flight operations. The exercise also enabled more than a dozen crews to be certified and deployable in alignment with the Force Generation Cycle.

"Overall, I think we performed very well," said Air Force Maj. Michael Hall, the lead C-130 air planner for Ivy Mass. "We got a lot out of it and the goal was for us to go through the full range of military operations which is what we accomplished."

Crews integrated and trained largely with Army personnel. They inserted Special Forces personnel into multiple objective areas using various tactics including personnel airdrop, high-altitude military parachuting and military free fall. They also transported all-terrain vehicles to an austere location using expedited engine-running offload procedures at an unimproved dirt airstrip.

Airmen and Soldiers trained loading an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System into the cargo bay, a light multiple-rocket launcher tactical vehicle capable of being transported by three different types of cargo aircraft.

"It's crucial for the different branches to continue and increase joint training as we look towards large-scale combat operations," said Army Maj. Matthew Tieszen, 4ID's lead staff planner for Ivy Mass. "The Army and Air Force have a long-standing relationship and joint training is vital in preparation for future conflicts."

Flight paramedics with the 34th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron also practiced transferring patients from helicopters to fixed-wing aircraft during a simulated crisis scenario. UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crews picked up patients from the point of injury and transported them to the airstrip where C-130 crews were on the ground waiting to pick them up and transport them to elevated stages of care.

Aircrews practiced flying in environments with varying stress conditions ranging from military freefall at night, operating without GPS capability, discharging chaff and flare during fighter engagement tactics and more.

In between training scenarios, the ground teams accomplished specialized refueling operations focused on getting aircraft refueled quickly and off the ground again. Maintenance crews also ensured the aircraft continued to fly reliably during the increased operational tempo of the exercise.

"Maintenance came through for us in a lot of ways," Hall said. "They got us the planes we needed throughout the exercise which is no small feat when we have that many missions and training lines."

After seven months of planning by more than a dozen organizations involving thousands of personnel culminating in 10 days of operations the exercise ended, and crews discussed their findings.

Some lessons learned included getting accustomed to breaking away from bubbles, Hall explained. With a myriad of organizations communicating with each other a common tendency is for personnel to stay inside familiar bubbles within their scope of operations. The exercise provided an opportunity to break free from these self-imposed boundaries and solve problems that arise from the resulting friction points.

"Within the wing I think we have multiple lessons learned now between tactics, intel, current operations, maintenance and flying operations in general regarding how we can perform better and get us out of our comfort zones," said Hall.

The 302 AW will have several opportunities to put those lessons into practice this year as the wing continues to provide its mission of world-class airlift and combat support around the world.

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SECNAV Names Ship in Honor of Narragansett Tribe of Rhode Island

US Navy - Press Release

18 June 2024

WASHINGTON -- Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced today that a future Navajo-class Towing, Salvage, and Rescue (T-ATS) ship will be named USNS Narragansett in honor of the Narragansett Indian Tribe of Rhode Island, June 18.

Secretary Del Toro made the announcement on the 90th Anniversary of the Indian Reorganization Act.

The Indian Reorganization Act, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, was aimed at decreasing Federal control of Native American Indian Affairs. The Act presented a major reversal of federal policy toward Native Americans and provided them greater control over their lands, allowing the formation of legally recognized tribal governments and decreasing pressure toward assimilation.

The naming selection of the future USNS Narragansett (T-ATS 14) follows the tradition of the Navajo-class of naming towing, salvage and rescue ships after prominent Native Americans or Native American tribes. Secretary Del Toro has previously named three Navajo-class ships: USNS Billy Frank Jr., USNS Solomon Atkinson, and USNS James D. Fairbanks.

"Native Americans have been integral to the history of our Nation; however, historically, the rights of Native Americans have been drastically impacted in negative ways," said Secretary Del Toro. "Today, on the 90th Anniversary of the Indian Reorganization Act, I am honored to announce the name of our newest Navajo-class T-ATS, the future USNS Narragansett (T-ATS 14)."

Prior to European contact, the Narragansett were a powerful Algonquian-speaking warrior tribe that occupied most of present-day Rhode Island from the Narragansett Bay in the east to the Pawcatuck River in the West. They first encountered European explorers in the 1520s when Giovanni de Verrazano visited the region and provided land to Roger Williams in 1636 to establish the settlement of Providence.

Increasing tensions with colonists led the Narragansett tribe to unite with other tribes during King Philip's War. Their territory was gradually reduced to a 15,000-acre reservation and the Narragansett people were officially recognized by the federal government as the Narragansett Indian Tribe in April 1983.

There are currently approximately 2,400 members of the Narragansett Indian Tribe living primarily in Rhode Island. Five naval vessels have been named in honor of the Narragansett people: a screw sloop (1859-1875), a troop transport (SP 2196) (1918-1919), a ferry boat (YFB 1163) (1918-1944), a fleet tug (AT 88) (1943-1946), and a fleet ocean tug (T-ATF 167) (1979-2002).

Navajo-class ships will provide ocean-going tug, salvage, and rescue capabilities to support Fleet operations. The current capabilities are provided by Powhatan-class T-ATF Fleet Tugs and Safeguard-class T-ARS Rescue and Salvage vessels. Navajo-class ships will be capable of towing U.S. Navy ships and will have 6,000 square feet of deck space for embarked systems.

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US: Gaza cease-fire can bring Israel-Hezbollah conflicts to an end

By Nike Ching June 18, 2024

A cease-fire in Gaza can bring the conflicts along the Israel-Lebanon border to an end, senior U.S. officials said amid worries of an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah fighters based in southern Lebanon.

Meanwhile, the United States is continuing to review one shipment of bombs for Israel over concerns about their use in the densely populated area of Rafah.

Diplomatic solution

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that officials are seeking a diplomatic way to end the battles along Israel's northern border with Lebanon so civilians can safely return to their homes.

"Hezbollah has tied the actions that it's committing against Israel to Gaza," Blinken told reporters during a press conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. "If we get that cease-fire [in Gaza], I think that will make it more likely that we can find a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in the north."

In Beirut, U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein urged a de-escalation between Israel and Hezbollah.

Hochstein said earlier on Tuesday that a cease-fire in Gaza "could also bring the conflict across the Blue Line to an end." He was referring to the demarcation line dividing Lebanon from Israel.

Last week, Iran-backed Hezbollah escalated hostilities on Lebanon's southern border by launching rockets and weaponized drones at nine Israeli military sites. This was the largest attack by Hezbollah since October, when the group began exchanging fire with Israel in parallel with the Gaza war.

U.S. weapons shipments to Israel

On Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Blinken has "assured" him that the Biden administration is "working day and night to remove these bottlenecks" on U.S. supplies of weapons and ammunition to Israel.

The U.S. paused military shipments to Israel in May, including 1,800 907-kilogram (2,000-pound) bombs and 1,700 226-kilogram (500-pound) bombs, because of concerns over Israel's plan to expand a military operation in Rafah, a densely populated city in southern Gaza, which the United States does not support.

Blinken told reporters the U.S. is still pausing a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel.

At the State Department, Blinken said the U.S. continues to "review one shipment that President Biden has talked about with regard to 2,000-pound bombs" due to concerns about their use in Rafah.

"But everything else is moving as it normally would move" to make sure Israel "has what it needs to defend itself against this multiplicity of challenges," noted Blinken.

Meanwhile, Israeli national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi and strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer are in Washington this week for discussions following the visit of U.S. special envoy Hochstein to Israel and Beirut.

Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder told reporters on Tuesday that a temporary pier built to deliver aid into the Gaza Strip is expected to be operational again this week. The U.S. military had disconnected the floating pier last week and moved it to the port of Ashdod in Israel because of bad weather.

VOA Pentagon correspondent Carla Babb contributed to this story.

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US calls for 'urgent' de-escalation of Israel-Hezbollah clashes

By VOA News June 18, 2024

The United States has called for a de-escalation of cross-border exchanges between Israel and Lebanese group Hezbollah as threats of a full-blown war loom.

The comments Tuesday by U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein in Beirut were made as attacks continued to escalate on both sides of the border.

Israel and Hezbollah began exchanging fire on October 8, a day after Hamas' deadly attack on southern Israel.

Recent attacks, including Tuesday's Hezbollah drone strike on an Israeli tank, took place after an Israeli strike that killed a senior Hezbollah commander last week.

Iran-backed Hezbollah, which allied with Palestinian militant group Hamas, has said that it will only stop attacks if there is a cease-fire in Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah has said that he hopes for an end to the conflict but is prepared to move forward if Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "insists" on war.

"We hope that the war will stop at any moment, but if [Netanyahu] insists on war, he will take the Zionist entity to disaster and will take the opposing front to a great and proud historic victory."

IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said that Hezbollah is putting Lebanon at risk in an attempt at being "a shield for Hamas."

"Hezbollah's increasing aggression is bringing us to the brink of what could be a wider escalation, one that could have devastating consequences for Lebanon and the entire region," Hagari said.

Special envoy Hochstein urged Hamas to accept a U.S.-backed cease-fire deal, saying that it would also aid in de-escalating the conflict along the southern Lebanon border.

Hochstein said a cease-fire or diplomatic solution to halt the Israel-Hezbollah conflict is "urgent."

News reports say that approximately 473 individuals in Lebanon, including 94 civilians, have been killed since October 8. Israeli officials reported at least 26 deaths in Israel due to the conflict, 11 of which are said to be civilians.

Some information for this report came from Reuters and Agence France-Presse.

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UN expert condemns Taliban 'crimes' against Afghan women, girls

By Ayaz Gul June 18, 2024

The United Nations human rights expert for Afghanistan warned Tuesday against sidelining the rights and voices of women at an upcoming international meeting with the country's fundamentalist Taliban leaders.

The special rapporteur, Richard Bennett, issued the warning while presenting his latest report on the Taliban's allegedly intensifying rights violations against Afghan women and girls to the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva.

"Following extensive research, consultation, and analysis, it finds that the Taliban's institutionalized system of gender oppression established and enforced through its violations of women's and girls' fundamental rights is widespread and systematic and appears to constitute an attack on the entire civilian population, amounting to crimes against humanity," Bennett reported.

"The gravity and scale of the crimes can't be overstated. We have a collective responsibility to challenge and dismantle this appalling system and to hold those responsible to account," said the U.N. expert.

Bennett shared his findings as the U.N. prepares to host a two-day meeting of international envoys on Afghanistan in Doha, Qatar, commencing June 30. The Taliban will attend for the first time what will be the third Doha conference since U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres launched the process more than a year ago.

Afghan civil society groups and representatives reportedly have not been invited to the third Doha huddle, even though they attended the second this past February. The Taliban refused to join those discussions unless their delegates could be accepted as the sole representatives of Afghanistan.

Guterres rejected the Taliban's demands in a post-meeting news conference. The U.N. has stated that the Doha process is aimed at developing a coherent and unified world approach to engagement with the Taliban.

Bennett said Tuesday the upcoming meeting presents an important opportunity to affirm that civil society, including women, are "meaningful participants" and that women's rights are central to discussions.

"The Taliban are not recognized as a government and should not be treated as such. They must not be allowed to dictate the terms of U.N.-hosted meetings," Bennett said.

"Failure to learn the lessons of the past and sidelining human rights could have devastating and long-lasting consequences," he added. "The Taliban's institutionalization of its system of gender oppression should shock the conscience of humanity."

The Taliban have dismissed international criticism of their governance, including restrictions on women's access to education and employment, saying their policies are aligned with Afghan culture and their harsh interpretation of Islamic law.

On Sunday, the Taliban's foreign ministry spokespersons formally confirmed that its delegation would attend the third Doha conference.

"The agenda and participation list of the upcoming Doha meeting shared with the Islamic Emirate after two months of discussions with the U.N., it was decided in principle to participate in the said meeting," Abdul Qahar Balkhi said. He used the official title of their men-only government, which is yet to be recognized by the world.

"If there are any changes to the agenda and participation, it would naturally affect our decision, which we will share with all sides at that time," Balkhi cautioned.

Bennett urged the international community to use an "all-tools approach" centered on justice and accountability, incorporating human rights and women's voices in political processes and diplomatic engagement while dealing with the Taliban.

"It's incumbent on us all to take decisive action to stand with Afghan women and girls, hold the perpetrators accountable, and restore dignity, equality, and justice for all."

The Taliban stormed back to power in Afghanistan almost three years ago, banning girls ages 12 and older from attending secondary school. They have also barred women from working in public and private sectors, including the U.N, except for Afghan health care and a few other departments.

Women are not allowed to travel long distances by road or air unless accompanied by a male relative and are banned from visiting public places such as parks, gyms, and bathhouses.

The Taliban's return to power in August 2021 led to the worsening of economic and humanitarian conditions in the impoverished country of more than 40 million people, which is reeling from years of war and the devastation of natural disasters.

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Philippine navy sailor severely injured in South China Sea collision

By VOA News June 18, 2024

The Philippine military says a maritime collision Monday in the South China Sea was an "intentional-high speed ramming" of a supply ship by the Chinese coast guard that "seriously injured" one navy sailor. However, China's coast guard says the supply ship is to blame.

In a statement Tuesday, the Philippine military said the sailor was successfully evacuated and is currently undergoing treatment. The incident occurred during a rotation and resupply mission for the Sierra Madre, a ship the Philippines grounded on Second Thomas Shoal more than two decades ago to boost Manila's claims to the Spratly Islands.

Manila says the incident occurred in its exclusive economic zone when Chinese vessels engaged in dangerous maneuvers, but China's coast guard blames a Philippine supply ship.

The incident is the latest in a string of confrontations in the disputed waters between the Philippines and China. On Monday, the United States voiced its concern about the incident and its support for the Philippines.

State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said: "The United States stands with its ally the Philippines and condemns the escalatory and irresponsible actions by the People's Republic of China (PRC) to deny the Philippines from lawfully delivering humanitarian supplies to service members stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre on June 16."

Miller added that "PRC vessels' dangerous and deliberate use of water cannons, ramming, blocking maneuvers, and towing damaged Philippine vessels, endangered the lives of Philippine service members, is reckless, and threatens regional peace and stability."

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell discussed China's actions in a phone call with his counterpart in the Philippines, Maria Theresa Lazaro. In a statement on the call, Matthew Miller said both agreed that China's "dangerous actions threatened regional peace and stability."

According to China's coast guard, a Philippine supply ship "deliberately and dangerously" made its way to one of China's ships. The Chinese coast guard said the result was a minor collision after the supply ship "illegally intruded" by the submerged reef of Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands, a territory claimed by several nations.

In a statement on the social media app WeChat, the Chinese coast guard said the supply ship "ignored China's repeated solemn warnings ... and dangerously approached a Chinese vessel in normal navigation in an unprofessional manner, resulting in a collision."

China claims almost all of the South China Sea, which generates over $3 trillion maritime commerce annually. This includes parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei.

Monday's incident comes as China has taken steps to enhance enforcement in waters it claims as its own. Beijing recently announced new rules, effective June 15, that it says allow its coast guard to employ lethal force against foreign ships in its territorial waters and hold suspected trespassers without trial for 60 days.

In a response Monday, the Philippine Coast Guard said it has also deployed vessels to patrol Scarborough Shoal  located 641 kilometers (398 miles) north of Second Thomas Shoal  for the safety of Filipino fishermen.

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Sudan, UAE envoys clash at UN

By Margaret Besheer June 18, 2024

The representatives of Sudan and the United Arab Emirates clashed Tuesday at the U.N. Security Council over Khartoum's accusations that Abu Dhabi is providing arms and other support to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, fueling a brutal war in Sudan.

"The UAE must stay away from Sudan!" Sudan's ambassador, Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed, told the council. "That is the first requirement that will allow for stability in Sudan. It must stop its support."

Mohamed accused the UAE of assisting RSF forces through militias in Chad, southern Libya and central Africa, adding that Sudan has submitted copies of a half dozen UAE passports found on the battlefield in Khartoum to the council to back up their claims of Emirati interference. He also said, without providing evidence, that wounded RSF fighters are being airlifted to Dubai for medical treatment.

Emirati Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab, who was seated beside his Sudanese counterpart at the 15-nation council's horseshoe-shaped table, during the meeting on the situation in Sudan, called the allegations "ludicrous."

"We see this as a shameful abuse by one of the warring parties of Sudan of this Council  using this platform to spread false allegations against the UAE to distract from the grave violations that are happening on the ground," the Emirati ambassador said.

The UAE has repeatedly denied sending arms to the RSF, but Tuesday was the first time their envoy had responded in person to the accusations at a council meeting.

A report by a U.N. panel of experts earlier this year said there was substance to media reports that cargo planes originating in the UAE capital had landed in eastern Chad with arms, ammunition and medical equipment destined for the paramilitary group.

Sudan's envoy asked the council to act.

"I ask your esteemed council to speak bravely and to take the last required step, which is to openly mention and condemn the UAE so that it would stop this war," Ambassador Mohamed said.

The United States has expressed concern about regional and international interference in Sudan.

"We must also continue calling on external actors to stop fueling and prolonging this conflict, and enabling these atrocities, by sending weapons to Sudan," Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said at Tuesday's meeting.

On Friday, she told reporters on a conference call to announce an additional $315 million in humanitarian support for Sudan, that there is no military solution to the conflict. She criticized countries that are supporting the rival generals with arms and ammunition and said she had spoken with the UAE about Sudan's allegations. She also noted that Russia and Iran are providing support to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

"We have been very, very clear with those actors, that they should cease their support for this war," she said Friday of all external actors. "It is only exacerbating and prolonging the conflict, and it is making the situation more dire for the people of Sudan."

Battle for El Fasher

Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in the North Darfur capital of El Fasher remains dire. The RSF has surrounded the city, burning and looting communities in its vicinity. They have advanced on the city, where an SAF infantry division is outnumbered and surrounded.

"The Sudanese Armed Forces will defend El Fasher to the last soldier," Ambassador Mohamed told reporters after the meeting.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says El Fasher is presently the epicenter of Sudan's humanitarian nightmare.

"Amid unrelenting violence and suffering, the lives of 800,000 people  of women, children, men, the elderly and people with disabilities  these lives hang in the balance," Edem Wosornu, OCHA's director of Operations and Advocacy, told the council.

Without immediate decisive action, she said, the international community risks bearing witness to a repeat of the well-documented atrocities perpetrated in West Darfur's capital, El Geneina, when the city fell to RSF troops last year.

Human rights groups say thousands of people, mostly ethnic Masalit and members of other non-Arab communities, were massacred by the RSF, even after the city fell to the paramilitary.

Today's RSF has elements of the Arab Janjaweed fighters who carried out the genocide against African Zaghawa, Masalit, Fur and other non-Arab ethnic groups in Darfur in the early 2000s.

On Thursday, the U.N. Security Council adopted a resolution demanding the RSF halt its siege and de-escalate the fight for El Fasher and that both sides allow aid in. The resolution has so far been ignored.

RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has been locked in an armed power struggle with SAF General Abdel-Fattah Burhan for the past 14 months. The fighting has spread from Sudan's capital, Khartoum, to other parts of the country, leaving millions displaced and in dire need of food, shelter and medical care.

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Islamic State in Somalia poses growing threat, US officials say

By Carla Babb, Harun Maruf, Jeff Seldin June 18, 2024

The United States is sharpening its counterterrorism focus on Somalia, going after increasingly high-profile targets linked to a resurgence of the Islamic State terror group from its base in the Horn of Africa.

U.S. officials are concerned that IS-Somalia, as the terror group's regional affiliate is known, has moved from being a key cog in the Islamic State global financial network to hosting the group's top leader.

Top IS leaders "view Africa as a place where they should invest, where they are more permissive and able to operate better and more freely, and they want to expand," according to a senior U.S. defense official. "So, they did bring the caliph to that region."

"The caliph provides strategic direction, which we view as allowing them to develop and expand, even more so than we would expect," the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity in order to discuss intelligence matters.

The U.S. assessment follows a flood of rumors emanating from Somalia that the IS emir, Abu Hafs al-Hashemi al-Qurashi, traveled from Syria or Iraq and then through Yemen to the semi-autonomous Puntland region of Somalia in country's northeast.

It also follows warnings from multiple Somali security officials that IS-Somalia has grown stronger, due in part to an influx of fighters and operatives from Yemen.

As evidence of the magnified U.S. focus on IS in Somalia, a second U.S. official confirmed to VOA on Monday that an airstrike late last month in the vicinity of Dhaadaar, 81 kilometers southeast of the city of Bosaso, targeted IS-Somalia leader Abdulqadir Mumin.

U.S. Africa Command's initial assessments of the May 31 strike indicated three IS militants were killed. The U.S. official told VOA on Monday, however, that it is not clear if Mumin is one of the dead.

Multiple Somali security officials told VOA that their initial analysis has yet to turn up evidence that Mumin was killed, though as many as three Somalis and three foreigners were wounded.

One Somali security official said he doubted Mumin would have been in the area during the strike since the IS-Somalia leader is careful to avoid areas where telecommunication infrastructure is working, which it was at the time.

Regardless of the outcome of the strike, U.S. officials say their focus will not waver.

"We would absolutely say, unequivocally, that we've got to keep our eye on the terrorist threat," White House national security communications adviser John Kirby told reporters Monday, referencing the strike in Somalia.

"It's clear that the threat is still real, and we have to still go after it," he said.

But word that IS, also known as ISIS or Daesh, has sent its global leader to Somalia, along with reports that Mumin himself may have been elevated to the position of caliph, is being met with skepticism from some former counterterrorism officials and analysts.

"The importance of Mumin, ISIS-Somalia, ISCAP [Islamic State Central Africa Province] and the al-Karrar office is not in doubt," said Edmund Fitton-Brown, a former senior United Nations counterterrorism official who currently serves as a senior adviser for the nonprofit Counter Extremism Project.

"But ISIS is a profoundly racist organization, and they like to claim that the caliph is descended from Muhammad," he told VOA. "I don't believe they are ready for an African caliph."

There are also questions as to why IS would send its top leader on a long and potentially perilous journey from Syria or Iraq to Somalia.

"It would be difficult from a logistic perspective. But, certainly, they could through human smuggling or networks that exist already," said Colin Clarke, director of research at the global intelligence firm, The Soufan Group.

"My question would be to what end? What kind of infrastructure is there on the ground that this person could slot into and still be relevant," Clarke told VOA. "It's not like Somalia is a place where you're free from counterterrorism actions ... It's not outside of the targeting scope of the U.S. intelligence community."

Clarke, like other analysts who spoke to VOA, also cautioned against underestimating IS-Somalia.

Despite IS-Somalia's small size  estimated at 100 to 400 fighters  and its failure to control significant territory, Clarke said the IS affiliate has become a "linchpin to the group's broader global logistics network."

That assessment is supported by a series of reports from the United Nation's own counterterrorism experts, based on intelligence from U.N. member states.

As far back as 2022, they identified Somalia as home to al-Karrar, one of nine regional offices established to help sustain the terror group's global capabilities.

The office, overseen most recently by IS-Somalia's Mumin, has since evolved into a key financial hub, moving money from Yemen to Afghanistan to help buy weapons and pay the salaries of IS fighters in Somalia, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

More recent assessments also contend that IS-Somalia, through the al-Karrar office, has been funding the IS Afghan affiliate, sending $25,000 a month in cryptocurrency to the group, known as IS-Khorasan Province.

Such continued growth for the al-Karrar office could point to a bigger, pivotal role for its leader, Mumin.

"With IS-Somalia and the al-Karrar office being this key middle point between various provinces, [Mumin] could be the head of the general director of provinces, meaning the main person that's helping to implement the [IS] strategy globally," said Aaron Zelin, a fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy who specializes in jihadism.

"In the past somebody in that level was previously either in Iraq or Syria," Zelin told VOA, adding that while IS as an organization has long looked to Africa for growth, its core identity is tied to the Middle East.

"I still think that the heart of the organization, even if it's not as strong as it has been in the past, is based in Iraq and Syria," he said.

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Report: Number of internally displaced people in Haiti increases by 60%

By VOA News June 18, 2024

The number of internally displaced people in Haiti has risen 60% since March, when armed gangs took control of the capital, the United Nations migration agency reported Tuesday.

"The figures we see today are a direct consequence of years of spiraling violence  that reached a new high in February  and its catastrophic humanitarian impact," said Philippe Branchat, head of the International Organization for Migration in Haiti. "The unending crisis in Haiti is pushing more and more people to flee their homes and leave everything behind. This is not something they do lightly. What's more, for many of them, this is not the first time."

The IOM reported 578,074 internally displaced people across Haiti, a 60% increase from 362,551 in early March. Haiti is a nation of 11.9 million people.

A surge in gang violence began at the end of February as the gangs sought to overthrow the government of Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

Henry was in Kenya at the time, signing an agreement in which Kenya would send security forces to help Haiti's national police fight the gangs.

Gangs launched coordinated attacks on the capital, Port-au-Prince. The armed gangs attacked the national palace, hospitals, police stations and individual neighborhoods. Since then, people have been fleeing their homes to neighboring provinces.

Gangs control about 80% of the capital.

In Port-au-Prince, two-thirds of IDPs live in spontaneous sites with very limited access to basic services, the report said. It added that the country currently has 96 active displacement sites that house 61,000 IDPs.

In April, Henry resigned, and a transitional council took power in Haiti.

A planned deployment of security forces from Kenya has been delayed multiple times.

Some information for this report came from Agence France-Presse, The Associated Press and Reuters.

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The oligarch, Russia and the West: The battle for Georgia's future

By Henry Ridgwell June 18, 2024

On top of a steep hill overlooking Tbilisi, tucked behind the city's ancient fortress, sits a sprawling, futuristic $50 million mansion that locals call "the glass palace." A shark tank, private zoo and helipad lie within the heavily guarded compound. Its owner, Bidzina Ivanishvili, reportedly calls it his "James Bond" house.

Ivanishvili is Georgia's richest citizen by far. The 68-year-old multibillionaire founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party was rarely seen in public for much of the last decade  but he is now pulling the strings of Georgian politics, according to Eka Gigauri, head of the anti-corruption group Transparency International in Georgia.

"Ivanishvili is the real ruler of this country," Gigauri said. "He owns one-third of Georgian GDP, and he made his fortune in Russia in the late '90s. He still has the interests in Russia through his offshore companies  and not only him but his family members as well. ...

"Is it possible to expect, or is it realistic to expect, from such an individual that he will do everything for Georgia to become the EU and NATO member? I don't think so," Gigauri told VOA.

Ivanishvili, for his part, has rarely spoken in public since a brief term as prime minister in 2012-13 apart from a speech in late April in which he defended a controversial "foreign agent" law as needed to prevent foreign intelligence agencies from undermining the government through the financing of nongovernmental organizations

West vs Russia

Analysts say Georgia is torn between a future aligned with the West or with Russia.

Protests erupted in March this year after the government introduced the "foreign agent" law, which requires any organization receiving more than 20% of its funding from foreign sources to register as a foreign agent. It closely resembles similar legislation in Russia which has forced many nongovernmental and media organizations to close or move abroad.

The protests against the legislation in Georgia have evolved into anti-government demonstrations, as the country prepares for crucial elections in October.

Ghia Nodia, a political analyst at Georgia's Ilia State University, said, "With this so-called Russian law or foreign agent law, [Georgian Dream] effectively turned its back on Europe, even though they don't admit to it openly."

EU aspirations

The Georgian government insists it still wants to join the European Union by 2030, although the bloc has warned that the foreign agent law could derail that process. The EU granted official candidate status to Georgia last year, hoping to set it on the path to democratic reform and Western integration. But the West misread Georgia's billionaire puppet master, Nodia said.

"The Georgian state has been captured by a specific person  Bidzina Ivanishvili  who is very secretive, whose agenda was not clear for people," Nodia said. "Some people, including in the West, had illusions that he was maybe a little bit of a strange guy, but ultimately he is also committed to values and norms of Western democracy.

"But they were proved wrong and skeptics were proved right, unfortunately. And it appears that he never had any real kind of commitment to democratic norms," Nodia told VOA.

Protests

The streets of Tbilisi have become a canvas for anti-government graffiti. Alongside EU, U.S., Georgian and NATO colors, protesters have daubed the blue and yellow of the Ukrainian flag  a show of solidarity as Kyiv tries to resist Russian occupation and domination. One slogan reads "Georgia is Ukraine; Ukraine is Georgia."

Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine forced Ivanishvili and his Georgian Dream party into the limelight, said Nodia.

The invasion "somehow put him on the spot that he had to take sides more clearly. He didn't want to. But eventually he moved more in the Russian direction, even though Georgian Dream tries to hide it, not to say it openly. Ivanishvili made a strategic decision that Russia is winning this war, so we should stay with the winner, or prospective winner, as he saw it," Nodia said.

Stoking fear

At a government-organized rally in April aimed at countering the opposition demonstrations, Ivanishvili said a Western "global party of war" was meddling in Georgia, citing a host of conspiracy theories about the role of nongovernmental organizations in the country. His party accuses the West of trying to persuade Georgia to open a new conflict against Russia, without providing any evidence.

The propaganda is part a well-rehearsed autocratic playbook, said Aka Zarkua of the Governance Monitoring Center in Tbilisi, a nongovernmental organization that tracks government spending and communications.

"The main propaganda line right now is that if we [Georgian Dream] are out of power, war with Russia is inevitable. So that is one of the biggest things. And as a country which experienced Russian aggression three or four times in the last 30 years, and a population traumatized by this experience, it is working," Zarkua said.

"They are trying to portray the West and Western countries  especially the United States and European Union  as some kind of enemy of Georgian traditional interests and family values," Zarkua said.

The government denies stoking public fear. Fridon Injia, an MP with the European Socialists party who voted for the foreign agent law, told VOA the government is seeking to carve its own independent future.

"The main goal of the Georgian government now is to maintain peace, because we have seen what the war has done to other countries. So, it's our main goal to maintain peace and for the Georgian government to avoid any kind of provocation that could spark a military conflict," Injia said.

Western mistakes

Since regaining independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Georgia has received financial and political support from the West. In addition to its EU aspirations, Georgia is a close partner of NATO, and the alliance decided in 2008 that the country would become a future member, although no timeline has been agreed upon.

So why has Georgia strayed from its path to Western integration?

"If we're talking about Western mistakes, the biggest mistake was the overall assumption about the threat of Russia and tyranny  that it was a headache, but not a fundamental threat," said Giga Bokeria, chairperson of the European Georgia party and the secretary of the National Security Council of Georgia from November 2010 to November 2013.

"Even after the 2008 invasion in Georgia, even after the 2014 invasion in Ukraine, there was no shift in understanding that this is a fundamental battle, and that resetting the relationship [with Russia] was only empowering the heirs of the evil empire of the Soviet Union," Bokeria said.

"So, it's a lack of focus, lack of attention, and overall, a misunderstanding that what's going on in Georgia is part of this bigger confrontation with Russia. But now I think ... that after this full-scale invasion in Ukraine we now see an overall turn to a sober understanding of the challenge," Bokeria told VOA.

Backlash

The Geogian government was taken by surprise at the strength of the backlash to the foreign agent law, which has politicized younger generations, said analyst Ghia Nodia.

"Some people say that now we are actually more optimistic than we were in February or March before this law was introduced. Because this law and protest woke up the Georgian people. We are kind of facing a precipice," he said.

While there is optimism that the October election could bring a change of geopolitical direction in Georgia, it's clear that the government  and its billionaire master Ivanishvili  won't relinquish power without a fight.

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Putin's visit puts Vietnam in 'difficult position' with 'no breakthrough,' experts say

By Thuc Pham June 18, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to Vietnam will put the Southeast Asian country in a difficult position and could even be seen as risky for Hanoi, according to three international relations experts who spoke on Monday to VOA. They expected no breakthrough from the visit.

Putin is scheduled to visit Vietnam on Wednesday and Thursday, after his Tuesday-Wednesday trip to North Korea.

Risks for Hanoi

"Hosting Putin in a combined trip that brings him to North Korea is bad optics for Hanoi and will bring some risks. This may make Vietnam less trustful in the eyes of the West, Japan and South Korea. But on the other hand, Hanoi would gain more trust in the eyes of Russia," said Alexander Vuving, a professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Honolulu.

According to Vuving, the link between Putin's visits to North Korea and Vietnam lies mostly in logistics: It makes more sense for Putin's schedule to go to these countries in one trip rather than in two separate trips.

"But it also highlights the fact that Vietnam, like North Korea, is a close friend of Russia," he said.

Nguyen Ngoc Truong, former president of the Center for Strategic Studies and International Development, a government-affiliated think tank in Hanoi, said Vietnam had sent a message telling Russia they did not want Putin to combine the North Korea and Vietnam stops in one trip "because it could cause international misunderstandings."

But the combined trip will still take place because "in terms of foreign affairs, Vietnam must consider all aspects," Truong said.

'Traditional and dearest friend'

Truong pointed out that the Vietnamese leadership is grateful for the assistance Vietnam received in past wars from the former Soviet Union. Therefore, they consider Russia a "traditional and dearest friend."

"Vietnamese people, especially those who understand geopolitics, cannot turn their backs on their friends because of immediate events. Russians stood shoulder to shoulder with Vietnam through the darkest and happiest moments, including assisting with weapons," Truong said.

Hoang Viet, a Ho Chi Minh City Law University lecturer and international dispute expert, stressed that Vietnam "does not want to lose its long-standing relationship" with Russia, a major power holding a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Viet noted that Russia has never had any disputes or conflicts with Vietnam.

"Given the current harsh Western sanctions, Putin's visit puts Vietnam in a difficult position. But Vietnam still has to maintain its relations because with the Vietnamese way of thinking, they must honor traditional friendship," Viet observed.

Relationship with U.S.

Just nine months ago, Vietnam welcomed U.S. President Joe Biden, and on that occasion, Hanoi and Washington upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, on par with the relationship that Vietnam had for many years with Russia, China and a few other countries.

Viet noted that while the U.S. views Vietnam as an important player in its Indo-Pacific strategy, Vietnam still largely relies on Russian weapons for its defense strength. Therefore, Vietnam must balance its relations with Russia and the U.S.

"No country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities," a spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi told Reuters on Monday when asked about the impact of the visit on ties with the United States.

"If he is able to travel freely, it could normalize Russia's blatant violations of international law," the spokesperson added, referring to the invasion of Ukraine that Putin launched in February 2022.

The Hague-based International Criminal Court in March 2023 issued an arrest warrant for the Russian president over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Vietnam, Russia and the U.S. are not members of the ICC.

No breakthrough expected

Viet expected that during the visit, Russia and Vietnam would enter into deals on weapons and oil and gas, which he called "traditional deals," while Hanoi tries "not to violate Western sanctions."

Truong expected there would be no special outcomes, saying "It will be just a friendly visit. There will probably not be any breakthroughs between the two countries. Military and defense cooperation in the current situation is unlikely to develop at all."

Vuving said he thought the top issues likely to be discussed by Vietnam and Russia will be the ways to boost bilateral trade in the face of Western sanctions, cooperation in the energy sector, including oil, gas, solar and nuclear energy, and Vietnam's purchase of weapons from Russia.

"Issues like payments and direct flights will likely be high on the agenda, as they are critical for restoring bilateral trade," Vuving said.

He assessed that "Russia will benefit more from the visit."

Noting that Vietnam will be the farthest destination for Putin since his invasion of Ukraine, Vuving commented that the visit will show that after the invasion, "many friends remain loyal to Moscow. These friends are not only in Russia's neighborhood, and some are friends to Russia not because they are enemies of the West," he said.

"But Vietnam also benefits from the visit as it helps to gain more trust from Russia and helps to keep Russia on Vietnam's side in the South China Sea disputes with China," he said.

Neutral stance toward war

Vuving added that Vietnam has been trying to maintain a largely neutral stance toward the war in Ukraine. However, the hosting of Putin will carry big risks to this stance.

Viet said despite trying to balance its heart for both Ukraine and Russia, two former Soviet republics that provided colossal help to Vietnam, Hanoi still leans more to one side.

"Russia's strength is different; Russia is also a great power. In geopolitics, interests are important. Vietnam finds more benefits in Russia than in Ukraine. Since the beginning of the war, the Vietnamese government still seems more inclined to maintain relations with Russia than with Ukraine," Viet said.

Truong commented, "Ukrainians may not like this trip, but they are also a people who have gone through many tough and tragic events in their history, and they understand everything very well. As a country living next to a giant neighbor [like Vietnam], they have similar views and similar feelings."

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Israeli army approves plans for offensive against Lebanon's Hezbollah

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:07, June 19, 2024

JERUSALEM, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli military announced Tuesday that it has approved "operational plans" for an offensive against the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.

In a statement, the military said Ori Gordin, commander of the Northern Command, and Oded Basiuk, head of the Operations Directorate, "approved the plans and held a joint situation assessment in the Northern Command" as part of preparations for the continuation of combat against Hezbollah along the Israel-Lebanon border.

The military added that "decisions were made on the continuation of increasing readiness of troops in the field."

The announcement came amid increasing tensions between the two sides, also at a time when U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, during his visit to Beirut, called for urgent de-escalation of confrontations on the Israel-Lebanon border.

In his meeting with Israeli leaders on Monday, Hochstein also urged relevant sides to soon resolve the conflict along the Blue Line, the border demarcation between Lebanon and Israel, via diplomatic means, which he said would serve everyone's interest and is "achievable and urgent."

Tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 18 June 2024 - Day 846

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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 Russian forces have likely taken control of the village of Novooleksandrivka, located approximately 20km north of Avdiivka, Donetsk oblast. The area has seen heavy fighting throughout 2024 and Russia has been gradually advancing since capturing Avdiivka in February 2024.

By taking control of Novooleksandrivka, Russia moves closer to threatening the T-05-04 road, one of the main supply routes for Ukrainian forces further east. It is highly likely that the village of Vozdvyzhenka will be Russia's next objective as it seeks to sever the road and disrupt Ukrainian logistics.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that Ukrainian troops continue the defensive operation and resolutely oppose the attempts of the Russian enemy to advance deep into the territory of the country. The hottest remains the situation on the Pokrovsky direction.

Since the beginning of the day, there have been 113 combat clashes.

Russian zagarbniki launched 33 aviation strikes on the territory of Ukraine with the use of 45 KABs and deployed 482 kamikaze drones. Also, Russian forces carried out almost 2,900 shells on positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements with barrel and jet artillery, mortars, artillery and armaments of fighting vehicles.

Six combat clashes took place in the Kharkiv direction today. Ukrainian troops were hindered by four attacks of Russians in the Vovchansk district. Repelling of two more Russian assault actions in the regions of Vovchansk and Liptsiv continues.

In the Kupyansky direction, the number of combat clashes increased to 12. Ukrainian soldiers repelled eight Russian attacks near Sinkivka, Stepova Novoselivka and Pi any, four more clashes continue.

In the Lyman direction, Russian forces tried 13 times to push Ukrainian defenders out of occupied positions in the areas of Grekivka, Makiyivka, Terniv and Serebryansky forestry. 12 attacks were repelled by Ukrainian defenders. The Russian forces did not succeed. The fight is ongoing at the Terniv location.

In the sivers komu direction, Ukrainian troops repelled 13 attacks of the zagarbnikiv near rozdolivka, spirnogo, verkhnyokamans kogo and viymki. The situation is controlled, loss of territories and positions is not allowed. Two more clashes in the area of Verkhnyokamans kogo continue.

Russian aggressor activated in the kramators komu direction. During the current day, the zagarbniki made six attempts to approach the microdistrict of the New Time Yar, four of which were repelled by the defenders of Ukraine. Two combat clashes are still ongoing.

In addition, Russia has been carrying out active assault operations near Ivanivsky, South and New York, where nine fighting is currently ongoing.

The hottest remains the situation in the Pokrovsky direction, where the number of Russian attacks has reached 37. The Russian invaders tried to break through Ukrainian defense near Oleksandropol, Novooleksandrivka, Evgenivka, Novoselivka the First, Novopokrovskogo, Sokola and Dwarf. Defense Forces are taking measures to prevent the opponent's advancement and stabilize the situation. Knocked out 20 attacks, another 17 fights continue.

Previously, the Russian aggressor's losses for today in this area amounted to about 180 occupants killed and wounded. Destroyed one MT-LB, mortar, cannon, four cars, damaged two tanks of Russians.

In the Kurakhivsk direction, three Russian attempts to push Ukrainian defenders from occupied positions in the area of Krasnogorivka were unsuccessful. Four more fights going on here. The situation is under the control of Defense Forces.

Ukrainian defenders are destroying the Russian invaders. Since the beginning of the day, total losses of Russians amount to 86 persons. A Russian vehicle has also been destroyed.

In the direction of success, there were no two assault actions of the zagarbnikiv near Urozaynogo and Novodarivka.

Also failed two attacks of the occupiers in the Orihiv direction - in the areas of Novodanilivka and Mala Tokmacka.

In other directions, the situation has not changed significantly.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 57th Motorised Infantry Brigade, 36th Marines Brigade, 120th, and 125th territorial defence brigades near Volchansk, Volokhovksoye, Sinelnikovo, and Liptsy (Kharkov region).

Two counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 71st Jaeger Brigade and 13th National Guard Brigade were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 130 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, including one U.S.-made Stryker infantry fighting vehicle, one U.S.-made 155-mm M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer.

Units of the Zapad Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 163rd Mechanised Brigade, 3rd Tank Brigade, and 3rd Assault Brigade near Novovodyanoye (Lugansk People's Republic), Peschannoye (Kharkov region), and Torskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). Four counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 115th Mechanised Brigade and 12th Special Operations Brigade were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 455 Ukrainian troops, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, and one U.S.-made 105-mm M119 howitzer.

Units of the Yug Group of Forces improved the tactical situation along the front lines and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 79th Air Assault Brigade, 81st Airmobile Brigade, 80th, and 93rd mechanised brigades near Grigorovka, Katerinovka, Predtechino, and Serebryanka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 665 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, including one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, two motor vehicles, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer. One AFU ammunition depot was also destroyed.

Units of the Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 68th Jaeger Brigade, 144th Infantry Brigade, 24th Mechanised Brigade, and 109th Territorial Defence Brigade near Vozdvizhenka, Kamishevka, Novgorodskoye, and Toretsk (Donetsk People's Republic).

Four counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 142nd Infantry Brigade, 23rd, and 110th mechanised brigades were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 355 Ukrainian troops, two U.S.-made MaxxPro armoured fighting vehicles, two motor vehicles, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, one 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, two U.S.-made 105-mm M119 howitzers, and one 100-mm Rapira anti-tank gun.

Units of the Vostok Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 72nd Mechanised Brigade, 108th, 123rd territorial defence brigades, and 21st National Guard Brigade near Zaliznichnoye (Zaporozhye region), Dobrovolye, Neskuchnoye, and Okryabr (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 155 Ukrainian troops, one armoured fighting vehicle, one pickup truck, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, one UK-made 155-mm FH-70 howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, and one Anklav-N electronic warfare station.

Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, 37th Marines Brigade, and 121st Territorial Defence Brigade near Daryevka, Osokorovka (Kherson region), and Nesteriyanka (Zaporozhye region).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 80 Ukrainian troops, six motor vehicles, three 152-mm D-20 howitzers, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, and one U.S.-made 105-mm M119 howitzer.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces wiped out one radar station and two launchers of the S-300 SAM system, one attack UAVs workshop, one materiel depot of the AFU 44th Artillery Brigade, from which weapons and military hardware supplied to the Kiev regime by the Western countries was unloaded and distributed, as well as engaged clusters of enemy manpower and hardware in 124 areas.

Air Defence units shot down 24 unmanned aerial vehicles and one Neptune-MD long-range guided missile over the past 24 hours.

In total, 613 airplanes and 276 helicopters, 25,891 unmanned aerial vehicles, 531 air defence missile systems, 16,366 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,343 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 10,610 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 22,645 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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Background Press Call by Senior Administration Officials on New Actions to Address Our Broken Immigration System

June 17, 2024

Via Teleconference

4:35 P.M. EDT

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: All right. Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining today's press call regarding additional actions President Biden will announce to address our broken immigration system. The call will begin with remarks from senior administration officials and be followed by a question-and-answer period.

As a reminder, the contents of this call and the factsheet you all received over email are embargoed until 5:00 a.m. Eastern tomorrow.

For your knowledge and not for reporting or attribution, today's briefers will include [senior administration official], [senior administration official], [senior administration official], [senior administration official], and [senior administration official].

With that, I will turn it over to [senior administration official] to kick us off.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Good afternoon, everybody. Thank you for joining us today.

Since the beginning of the administration, President Biden has taken a number of actions to secure our border, expand lawful pathways, and keep families together. I'm going to talk about some of these actions as well as new ones that we are announcing today.

Saturday marked 12 years since the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, popularly known as "DACA." Over the last 12 years, DACA has provided more than 800,000 DREAMers  children who were brought to the U.S. as young children by their parents  with the ability to work lawfully, pursue an education, open businesses, and contribute their enormous talents to make our communities better and stronger.

DREAMers are critical members of our communities. And in his first day in office, President Biden sent Congress a comprehensive immigration reform bill that would have delivered enduring protection to DREAMers and their families.

While Congress has failed to act on those reforms, the Biden-Harris administration has vigorously defended the DACA rule in court; has extended Affordable Care Act coverage to DACA recipients; and streamlined, expanded, and instituted new reunification programs so that families can stay together while they complete the immigration process. Ultimately, only Congress can provide a permanent and lasting stability to DREAMers and their families, and we continue to call on Congress to act on that.

President Biden believes that securing the border is essential, and he also believes in expanding lawful pathways and keeping families together. And he has delivered on all these counts.

As you all remember, two weeks ago, President Biden announced additional actions to secure our southern border when encounter levels are high, after congressional Republicans twice voted against the toughest and fairest set of bipartisan reforms to our asylum and immigration system in decades. And while we are still in the early phase of implementation, encounters in between ports of entries are down and repatriations are up.

However, we understand that migration flows are dynamic, and we will continue surging resources and personnel to the areas of the border that need them and working with our international partners to reduce flows before they arrive on our border.

In addition to these actions, the administration has deployed record numbers of law enforcement personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the southern border. We have revoked the visas of CEOs and government officials in the region and outside the United States who are profiting from migrant smuggling to our border. And we have expanded efforts to dismantle human smuggling networks and prosecute individuals who violate immigration laws.

But President Biden has also overseen the greatest expansion of lawful pathways in decades. And tomorrow, he will announce new actions to bring peace of mind and stability to Americans living in mixed-status families. These measures will help keep American families together and allow more young people to contribute to our economy and our country.

President Biden will announce that the Department of Homeland Security will take actions designed to help U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children keep their families together. This new process will help certain noncitizen spouses and children apply for lawful permanent residence  status that they are already eligible for  without leaving the country and potentially putting themselves in harm's way. This action could protect approximately half a million American families and approximately 50,000 noncitizen children under the age of 21 whose parent is married to a U.S. citizen.

Additionally, President Biden will announce that the administration is taking action to facilitate the employment visa process for those who have graduated from college and have a high-skilled job offer, including DACA recipients and other DREAMers.

These measures show that the administration is committed to taking action within its legal authorities to secure our border and ensure that our immigration system is more fair and more just.

However, we remain clear-eyed that only Congress can deliver the additional personnel, resources, and policy changes that are needed to secure our border, and only Congress can deliver the comprehensive reform of our immigration and asylum laws that we need to secure our border and make our immigration system work.

With that, I will turn it over to [senior administration official].

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks, [senior administration official]. And good afternoon, everyone.

Tomorrow, DHS will be announcing actions to promote family unity in the immigration process. Consistent with the Biden-Harris administration's commitment to keeping families together, DHS will establish a new process to consider on a case-by-case basis requests of certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens who meet specific requirements.

First, they must be present in the United States without having been admitted or paroled.

Second, they must have lived in the United States for at least 10 years as of today  that is June 17th, 2024. They have  they must have had  they have, excuse me, a legally valid marriage to a U.S. citizen as of June 17th, 2024. They must not pose a threat to public safety or national security. They must otherwise be eligible to apply  excuse me  to apply to adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident, also known as a green card. And they must merit a favorable exercise of discretion.

If eligible, these noncitizens will be able to apply for lawful permanent residence without having to leave the United States, as [senior administration official] pointed out.

This announcement utilizes existing authorities to keep families together. But as [senior administration official] noted as well, only Congress can fix our broken immigration system.

To be clear, in terms of the process, under current law, noncitizens married to a U.S. citizen may apply for lawful permanent residence based on their marriage to a U.S. citizen. However, to apply for lawful permanent residence, many noncitizens must first depart the United States and wait to be processed abroad, resulting in a prolonged, potentially indefinite period of separation from their U.S.-citizen family members and causing tremendous hardship to all concerned. The challenges and uncertainty of this process result in many eligible spouses not applying for permanent residence.

Through the new process that will be announced tomorrow, certain noncitizens who are eligible to apply for lawful permanent residence will be able to do so without having to leave the United States. These eligible noncitizens who have lived here for 10 years or more have deep family and community ties in the United States. Many of these families include U.S.-citizen children, yet they live in fear and face deep uncertainty about their future.

DHS estimates that approximately 500,000 noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens could be eligible to access this process. On average, these noncitizens have resided in the United States for 23 years. Approximately 50,000 children of these noncitizen parents  that is, the stepchildren of a U.S.-citizen parent  who are already present in the United States without admission or parole will also be eligible for this process.

Further information regarding eligibility and the application process, including a notice in the Federal Register, will be published soon. Anyone who attempts to file an application before the process opens will have their application rejected.

Consistent with our immigration enforcement priorities, noncitizens who pose a threat to national security or public safety will not be eligible for this process. If a noncitizen poses a threat to national security or public safety, DHS will detain, remove, or refer them to other federal agencies for further vetting, investigation, or prosecution as appropriate.

Paired together, these actions will advance our country's interest in keeping American families together while ensuring anyone known to pose a threat to public safety cannot take part in our immigration system.

Finally, I do want to note that DHS will be joining the Department of State in an effort to more efficiently facilitate certain employment-based nonimmigrant visas for eligible individuals, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, recipients and other DREAMers who have graduated from an accredited U.S. institution of higher education and who have received an offer of employment from a U.S. employer.

By clarifying and enhancing these  the existing process, the Department of State's policy will give U.S. employers increased confidence that they can hire the talent they need and that they will be able to quickly get to work.

Thank you. And with that, I'll turn it back to Angelo.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you, [senior administration official], and thank you, [senior administration official].

With that, we will go to the question-and-answer portion of the call. As a reminder, this will also be on background and attributable to "senior administration officials."

As some of you are doing, please use the "raise hand" function on Zoom, and we will give you a minute to queue up.

We will start with Michelle. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi, everyone. Thanks for doing this call. I wanted to see if you could clarify how exactly you're going to issue this. Is it going to be a memo? Are you going to do a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking? I'm trying to understand how soon we can expect an application process to open, whether it's months, before the election, et cetera.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I'm happy to take that. We  as I mentioned there will be a Federal Register notice coming out with further information. That will be coming out soon, in the weeks ahead. We anticipate the process opening by the end of summer.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thanks. We will go to Rafael next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi. Thanks for having this. Two quick questions. For the DREAMers side of the  of things, will bachelor's, associate degrees, being a  being active duty in the military, will that be enough for them to be able to streamline their  their visas or be able to have access to these visas?

And on the noncitizens, I know common-law marriage, as defined by each state, does count for, like, naturalizations right now. Will common-law marriage count for these marriages?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, I can take the question about the visa process for DREAMers, so  and others. So, the base qualification will be that a person needs to qualify for one of the existing temporary work visas that are provided for in the Immigration and Nationality Act.

So, the kind of classic example of a visa where a bachelor's degree is kind of the  the baseline requirement is the H-1B visa for specialty occupation workers. So, people would need to first establish that they are eligible for that through employer sponsorship, and then they would be able to apply for a visa consistent with the forthcoming guidance from the State Department.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: And regarding your second question on common-law marriage, the marriage has to be legally valid, as I noted. And in terms of what meets that definition, there'll be further information coming in the Federal Register notice and further guidance.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Camilo next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi, folks. Hi, folks. Can you hear me?

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Yes.

Q Okay. Great. Can you say whether you have a number of USCIS employees who are expected to be assigned to review these cases?

And my second question, it's just a clarification request. Can you explain again how the process will work for the people who are under the age of 21 who could receive parole in place? Thanks.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks for those questions, Camilo. I don't have a number to share in terms of USCIS personnel that will be assigned to this. You know, USCIS will assess their resource needs and assign personnel and other resources appropriately. As more information becomes available about the process, perhaps that'll be something more we can share in the future.

And regarding the process for children who are under the age of 21, in terms of eligibility, certain noncitizen children of these noncitizen spouses who are present in the country without admission or parole, if they meet the definition of a stepchild under the Immigration and Nationality Act  so, that is, they must be a stepchild of the U.S.-citizen parent  under existing criteria, that makes them eligible to adjust status. And so, much like these noncitizen parents would have access to parole so that we could ease their path to the adjustment of status.

I'll note that in terms of that definition, the child has to be unmarried, under 21, and the marriage between the parents has to have taken place before the child turned 18.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Gabe next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Thanks very much, Angelo. Thank you all for doing this. A point of clarification. On the folks that are  the noncitizen spouses that have been here for 10 or more years, is there any amount of time that they have to be married to their spouse in order to be  for this to apply?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: The marriage requirement is that they be married as of June 17th, 2024. So, essentially married before the announcement is made.

You know, I should say that USCIS is very accustomed to evaluating the bona fides of a marriage, and they will do so, you know, as appropriate in these cases.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Seung Min next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi. Thanks for holding the call. Just a couple of points of clarification sort of related to Gabe's question just now. So, if the requirement is that it's 10 years as of June 17th  it's June 17th or before, right? So, let's say I've been here for nine months and  or, sorry, nine years and three months, I wouldn't be able to qualify in three months. Is that  or nine  sorry, whatever  nine years and, whatever, nine months, then I wouldn't be able to qualify in, like, three months. Is that correct?

And then, also, do you guys know if that  what the application fee would be once this process opens up?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, thanks for your question. It has to be at least 10 years as of today, June 17th. So, it is the  you do not  no one becomes eligible for this process after the date of announcement  or after June 17th. So, I think that answers your question. So, those 10 years will have to have been met as of June 17th.

And in terms of fees, you know, more information about the fees will be forthcoming when we share more information about the process.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Alejandra next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hey, hello. Thank you for doing this. I just wanted to know if you could give more specifics onto what you mentioned about facilitating the employment visa process for people who have graduated college and have a high-skilled job offer. And what does "high-skilled job offer" entails? Thank you so much.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Sure. Thanks for the question. So, just to state at the top, there will be additional guidance forthcoming from the State Department on this that will provide some of the additional parameters and additional clarity.

But, you know, philosophically, the  the idea is that we recognize that there is a national interest component to making sure that people who are educated in the United States are able to put their education and skills to use in the United States for the benefit of our country. And there is an existing process for people who might be inadmissible and, therefore, ineligible for a visa because of, for example, prior unlawful presence in the United States.

The idea is to create guidance that will just provide a little bit more certainty and reflect the fact that the qualities that I just mentioned are in the national interest. And so, the idea would to put additional certainty and speed around the visa process so that employers are able to make informed decisions and, of course, the employees in terms of evaluating whether  whether they are comfortable with departing the United States and applying  applying for a visa and potentially coming back in.

And then, I'm sorry, the second piece of your question, can you repeat it?

Q Yeah. So  well, you said national interest. So, does that mean they would get a national interest waiver?

And then the second part of my question was: What does "high-skilled job offer" entails? Like what are 

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I see. Okay.

Q  specific professions, a specific, like, criteria for that?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Yeah. Understood. Okay. So, there's  they're not getting a national interest waiver, per se. The existing waiver process that is enshrined in the statute gives consular officers discretion to recommend a waiver and then, of course, the Department of Homeland Security to grant a waiver. So, there's discretion in that process.

The idea is just to reflect that it is  we recognize that there is a national interest element to making sure that people who have been educated in the United States are able to put their education skills to use for the benefit of our country.

In terms of what a high-skilled or  occupation might look like, again, just turning to sort of the classic example of the H-1B visa, which is available to specialty occupation workers, that type of visa requires an individual to have a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific specialty and a job offer where the  where the specialized degree is typically qual-  is typically required to perform the job. So, you see these often in STEM occupations, but it can be extended beyond that as well.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Salome next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Yes. Thank you. Thank you for the space. Kind of following up on the DACA. So, DACA recipients who had overstayed their visas, how will they be benefited from it? What happens to the years they stayed out of status? And will they have to do a consular process to get an H-1B visa? Thank you.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, anyone who is currently without status does have to consular process and apply for a visa outside the country. So, that's kind of foundational.

And, again, just sort of to reiterate what I just said before, the idea is to put some additional certainty and speed around the waiver process. But people will still have to  if you  if a person is without status, they will still have to depart the United States and apply for a visa before they will be permitted to come back in.

That is what is required in the law, and that includes DACA  I mean, DACA recipients as well.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Jesus next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi. Thank you for doing this. Also follow-up about the H-1B visas, because this option opens the option to apply for a green card later. It is  but there is a significant backlog in USCIS, so how you are going to fix this issue, because, also, to apply for the first time is complicated?

And, also, will this program be renewed every year, particularly for these people  these undocumented people married with U.S. citizens, which means people reaching the qualification next year can apply also? Thank you so much.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, on the first question, we recognize that there are certainly significant backlogs in the immigrant visa system, both on the family-based side and on the employment-based side. Unfortunately, only Congress can truly help us address that challenge, because there are limits on the number of immigrant visas that can be issued in any given fiscal year, and it has been a few decades since those numbers have been updated. So, unfortunately, we are not able to address that without the assistance of Congress.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: And regarding your second question, this is not a process through which people can become eligible in the future. This is a process that benefits those who meets the requirements as of today, as I was noting earlier in terms of the date of marriage and the 10 years of presence in the United States.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Sergio next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Thank you, Angelo. And thanks so much for doing this. I have two quick questions. One, to clarify, would this also  this parole in place, would it also apply for noncitizens who have been deported at least once?

And, also, I think  I think you all  you know, it's fair to say that the expectation is that something like this could be challenged pretty quickly. How confident is the administration that it will stand in court? Thanks.

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thank you for your question. So, the purpose of this process is to facilitate the adjustment of status process domestically to avoid people having to travel abroad and be separated from their family if they are otherwise eligible to adjust. The scenario that you presented of an individual who was unlawfully present here and was deported and returned is an individual who would not be eligible to adjust status. That is something that cannot be waived, and, therefore, they are not eligible for this process that we are announcing.

In terms of your second question regarding legal challenge, we feel strong-  that we are on strong legal footing to make this announcement and are comfortable doing so.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Maria next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Thank you very much for asking. Hi, can you hear me? Hello?

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Yes.

Q Oh, okay. Great. Thank you. So, just so I understand, so, overall, is it correct to say that both groups, like, the Keeping Families Together and the DACA/DREAMers, that the President is opening up a path  a possible path to citizenship? But the first group, the married spouses, those  they  those folks crossed the border illegally, where the other group, the DREAMers, may not necessarily have crossed illegally but can't get on a path to citizenship nonetheless. Is that right?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: So, Maria, I'm happy to start, and others can add in. But, you know, I want to be clear that everything that we are announcing is for individuals who are eligible under existing U.S. law to be able to adjust their status. What we are announcing are essentially streamlined processes to make it more minimally  like, minimize the bureaucracy, minimize the hardship that having to leave the country creates, and, you know, ensure some predictability, you know, for the individuals who, you know, we were describing in terms of the H-1B process.

And we're really just trying to make clear under existing law that these individuals are able to access, you know, permanent residence or, in the case of the H-1B announcement, you know, an employment visa.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. We will go to Astrid next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi. Thank you. Can you clarify what the time frame is for the streamlined process for spouses to get a visa, especially if their work permit would expire in three years? Is the thought that they would be able to have their legal permanent residency in those three years?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Thanks for that question, Astrid. We are not committing to any particular times today. The purpose of this process is to ensure that people, once granted parole, are able to then apply for adjustment of status and to do so from the United States with their families. That does not limit the time through which they can apply, but we trust that many people who are interested in this process will be looking to apply as quickly as possible.

USCIS will, you know, certainly, in the balance of its, you know, benefits and adjudications, be allocating resources to make as timely adjudications as possible. But we're not looking to  we're not  the three years that you referenced is not any particular timeline that we are committing to or announcing.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. And we have time for two more questions. We will go to Rohit next. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi. Thanks for doing this. I have two questions. First, from what I gathered, I mean, it looks like the  the documented DREAMers  I mean, these are the, you know, kids who grew up in America and are dependent on their parent's visa  they're not protected to this new regulation. Is the administration looking to issue any guidelines to protect them? Last week, we saw about 52  54 congressperson sending a letter to DHS and USCIS asking them to be able to take action to protect them.

And, B, because, you know, there has been a massive backlog. It looks like, from what you just said, you do have good legal standing to issue, EADs and advance parole to people who have been approved for a green card. So, is the administration also going to take executive action this year to protect them as well?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: Hi, Rohit. I mean, I would say that, as we are demonstrating today, this administration cares deeply about the DREAMers and about the DACA recipients, but we don't have anything to announce on that today.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you. And our last question will go to Steff. You should be unmuted now.

Q Hi. Thank you. I'm wondering if in this, like, group of half a million people, if you guys have any sort of, like, country or regional breakdown for, you know, where these people's home countries are?

SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: I would say, you know, generally speaking, we certainly anticipate that many individuals will have been from Mexico, just given the demographics of noncitizens who arrived 10 or more years ago, and certainly northern Central America as well. But I think we, you know, expect a majority to be from Mexico.

MR. FERNANDEZ HERNANDEZ: Thank you, [senior administration official].

And that is all the time that we have today.

As a reminder, the contents of this call and the factsheet you received over email are embargoed until 5:00 a.m. Eastern tomorrow.

Thanks, everyone.

5:07 P.M. EDT

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Weekly COVID-19 cases in Taiwan nearly double to 623

ROC Central News Agency

06/18/2024 06:52 PM

Taipei, June 18 (CNA) A total of 623 new locally transmitted COVID-19 cases were reported from June 11 to 17, nearly double the previous week's 329 cases, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) said Tuesday.

At a weekly press briefing, CDC official Lee Chia-lin () explained that the domestic epidemic is rising and is currently in the pandemic phase. In addition, there were 38 new deaths, up from 20 the previous week.

CDC spokesperson Tseng Shu-hui () said that mathematical modeling suggests this wave of the epidemic will peak in August and September, with a decline expected after September.

Among the severe cases with complications, there were two male infants under 1, CDC physician Lin Yung-ching () said.

One of them, a 3-month-old unvaccinated infant from the south with no underlying health conditions, developed fever, cough with phlegm, and a runny nose in mid-June, and experienced breathing difficulties the next day, according to Lin.

He tested positive for COVID-19, and an X-ray showed pneumonia. Due to respiratory distress, the infant was admitted to the intensive care unit. His condition improved, and he was discharged on the fifth day of hospitalization, Lin explained.

The other case was an 8-month-old unvaccinated male infant from the central region with no underlying conditions, Lin said.

In mid-June, he had a high fever and cough with phlegm and tested positive for COVID-19 and adenovirus.

The next day, he developed rapid breathing, decreased activity, and poor appetite. At the hospital, he had low blood oxygen levels, and bilateral pneumonia on X-ray, and tested positive for COVID-19 on both rapid and PCR tests.

He was admitted to the ICU and discharged on the fifth day, Lin said.

In response to concerns about the epidemic's impact on infants, Tseng explained that parents are more likely to seek medical attention for infants, leading to higher reported cases.

Over the past four weeks, the complication rate for infants under 1 with COVID-19 remains below 1 percent without a significant increase, Tseng said. Current U.S. CDC statistics also show no higher severe disease rate in infants compared to adults, she added.

On the international front, Lee reported a global rise in cases, with a 9.7 percent positivity rate from May 27 to June 2. The JN.1 variant is dominant, but KP.2 and KP.3 are also rapidly increasing, Lee said.

Lin reminded the public that facing the new variants, even those who have previously been infected with COVID-19 or vaccinated with older versions of the vaccine, may still have insufficient protection, potentially leading to susceptibility to reinfection and symptoms such as high fever and upper respiratory tract infections.

Tseng encouraged those who have not yet received the XBB vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible while explaining that research has found the current prevalent variants have higher transmissibility.

Regarding the XBB.1.5 vaccine currently in use, Tseng stated it still maintains the effectiveness of 50 percent to 60 percent in preventing infection, 60 percent to 80 percent in preventing severe cases, and reduces mortality by 60 percent to 70 percent.

(Tzeng Yi-ning and Evelyn Yang)Enditem/ASG

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DHS Bolsters Indo-Pacific Maritime Cybersecurity through Partnership with Indonesia

Release Date: June 18, 2024

WASHINGTON -- From June 10-13, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) partnered with the Government of Indonesia under U.S. Department of State International Narcotics and Law Enforcement and U.S. Department of Defense Threat Reduction Agency programs to enhance the security and resilience of the international maritime transportation system. This reflects a joint commitment by both nations to strengthen cybersecurity collaboration and protect maritime critical infrastructure from malicious cyber intrusions and cyber-attacks under our upgraded Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In partnership with U.S. Embassy Jakarta, the Government of Indonesia, and various Indonesian maritime port authorities, DHS conducted a successful tabletop exercise and workshop focused on enhancing maritime cybersecurity and incident response capabilities in Indonesia and the Indo-Pacific region.

The collaboration built upon Secretary Mayorkas's priority to enhance close cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific region with focused discussions on protocols for incident response, information sharing, and the identification of future bilateral cooperation to mitigate current and emerging cyber threats to critical maritime infrastructure. Held in Surabaya, this was the first comprehensive port-focused cybersecurity tabletop exercise held with Indonesian counterparts. The exercise allowed DHS and Indonesia cybersecurity officials to enhance response capabilities through a series of simulations, including a major cyber incident impacting port operations with cascading impacts from exploited vulnerabilities in ship-to-shore cranes and ransomware attacks that disabled critical systems and exfiltrated proprietary and personal information. Throughout the exercise, Indonesian public and private sector participants discussed mitigation techniques and worked to operationalize lessons learned, enhancing maritime cyber resilience.

"The maritime transportation system is a vital lifeline for global trade and commerce," said Under Secretary for Policy Rob Silvers. "This exercise allowed us to stress test cyber incident response plans with Indonesian counterparts, as well as identify areas where we can collaborate more closely to secure the maritime domain from cyber threats."

"By sharing information, technology, and know-how, the United States and Indonesia will be able to successfully address marine and cyber challenges," Consul General Jonathan Alan stated. "Exercises like this help not only strengthen our technical capabilities but forge invaluable future partnerships and, the United States looks forward to building on these important exchanges."

Following the tabletop exercise, the U.S. Coast Guard facilitated a maritime cybersecurity workshop for public and private sector Indonesian maritime counterparts to share U.S. Coast Guard policies and best practices related to maritime cyber incident prevention and response. In particular, the U.S. Coast Guard outlined its efforts related to President Biden's February 2024 Executive Order on Amending Regulations Relating to the Safeguarding of Vessels, Harbors, Ports, and Waterfront Facilities of the United States.

"Cyber threats in the maritime environment continue to grow more sophisticated and pernicious," said Jon Kennedi, Director of the Indonesian Directorate of Sea and Coast Guard. "Confronting these threats requires a comprehensive approach that integrates operational coordination, capacity building, and the sharing of risk information across governments and industry stakeholders."

"The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) was honored to collaborate with our U.S. Federal Government partners and the Government of Indonesia during this week's maritime cyber incident response tabletop exercise and workshop," said CISA's Deputy Executive Assistant Director for Infrastructure Security Steven Harris. "This joint exercise underscores the importance of international planning and collaboration to strengthen our cyber defenses and ensure the resilience of our maritime infrastructure. Together we are better prepared and equipped to tackle cyber threats and ensure the safety and security of global maritime activities."

The three days were coordinated by the Department's Office of Policy and U.S. Embassy Jakarta, and led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Subject matter inputs came from other DHS entities including the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Office of Intelligence & Analysis, and the Supply Chain Resilience Center. Indonesian subject matter experts attended from Indonesia's Ministry of Sea and Transportation (KPLP), Harbormaster and Port Authority Office (KSOP), Customs, National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), Ministry of Defense, Indonesian National Police, Indonesia National Intelligence Agency, Surabaya Container Terminal, Tanjung Priok Port, Taluk Lamong Terminal, Pertamina Patra Niaga Terminal, Meratus Shipping, Pertamina International Shipping, AKR, Tanto Intim Line, and Recognized Security Organization (RSO).

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MS-13 Members and Associates Sentenced for Racketeering and Narcotics Conspiracies and Four Murders

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

The last defendant of the six La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang members who were convicted at two separate federal trials was sentenced today. The six defendants were sentenced for racketeering conspiracy, narcotics conspiracy, and offenses related to the murders of four men in 2019.

According to court documents and evidence presented in the two trials, the six defendants were members of MS-13's Sitios Locos Salvatrucha clique (STLS), which operated in Northern Virginia and elsewhere for years. From at least 2017 through 2020, MS-13 members and associates regularly travelled to and from Long Island, New York, for the purpose of obtaining cocaine from Marvin Menjivar Gutierrez, STLS's leader in the United States. From there, MS-13 members would transport the cocaine to the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area to be sold in nightclubs and bars. STLS used the proceeds of their cocaine sales to purchase more cocaine to sell, buy weapons, and support other MS-13 members in the United States and El Salvador.

"These defendantsamembers of the violent MS-13 gangasold drugs to fuel the gang's business, surveilled and tracked rival gang members, and even murdered innocent victims, all to increase the grip that MS-13 had on the community," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. "With today's sentencing, we are holding these defendants accountable for the havoc they wreaked. The Criminal Division, along with our federal and local law enforcement partners, is committed to combating violent criminal organizations that victimize our communities."

In the spring of 2019, Menjivar and Melvin Canales Saldana, STLS's second-in-command in the United States, ordered members to begin committing murders so that the junior members could rise in rank within MS-13 and amplify STLS's prestige and control. In June 2019, three MS-13 members, including Cristian Arevalo Arias and Carlos Turcios Villatoro, lured Victim 1 and Victim 2 to a wooded area and murdered them by shooting and stabbing the victims. The MS-13 members believed Victim 1 belonged to a rival gang, and then murdered Victim 2 to avoid leaving any witnesses to Victim 1's murder.

"MS-13 represents a cycle of death in our society that cannot be tolerated and must be eradicated. MS-13 sells the poisons that destroy communities, families, and lives, and uses the profits to purchase the weapons they use to kill our people in the streets," said U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia. "This is why federal, state, and local law enforcement employ a coordinated, comprehensive, and strategic approach to systematically dismantle these organizations and end their ability to do harm."

In August 2019, Canales ordered an MS-13 member to provide Arevalo with a firearm so that Arevalo, Manilester Andrade Rivas, and other MS-13 members could find and and kill any rival gang member. Arevalo, Andrade, and others travelled to the Glen Arbor Apartments in Woodbridge, Virginia, in the hopes of encountering and murdering a rival. They encountered Victim 3 and Arevalo shot him to death.

In September 2019, Jairo Aguilera Sagastizado travelled to Woodbridge from New York and spent hours driving around Northern Virginia and Maryland with two other MS-13 members, looking for a rival gang member to murder at random so that they could rise in rank. Unable to find a rival, the group finally decided to murder Victim 4, whom they observed walking home from a 7-Eleven in Dumfries, Virginia. Aguilera and another MS-13 member shot Victim 4 multiple times, killing him.

"Today's sentencing is another example of the FBI's relentless commitment to bringing an end to violent transnational criminal enterprises like MS-13," said Executive Assistant Director Timothy Langan of the FBI's Criminal, Cyber, Response, and Services Branch. "If you engage in racketeering in the advancement of distributing narcotics, rest assured that we will not stop until you face the consequences of your actions."

"Members of MS-13 spread fear and violence throughout the countryaoften through senseless murdersabut their control is not limitless," said Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office. "As evidenced by this case, the FBI will pursue individuals or groups who traffic in violence. We vow to continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to disrupt and dismantle transnational gangs that terrorize our neighborhoods."

Multiple MS-13 members and associates pleaded guilty prior to trial. Below is additional information about the defendants, all of whom are Salvadoran nationals, who were convicted at trial and have been sentenced.

Name Age Residing in Convictions Sentence Marvin Menjivar Gutierrez 32 New York Racketeering conspiracy; murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to distribute cocaine; use of firearm in federal violent crime resulting in death Multiple life sentences Melvin Canales Saldana 32 New York Racketeering conspiracy; murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to distribute cocaine; cocaine distribution Multiple life sentences Cristian Arevalo Arias 28 Virginia Racketeering conspiracy; two counts of murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to distribute cocaine; two counts of use of firearm in federal violent crime resulting in death; witness tampering by killing; cocaine distribution Multiple life sentences Carlos Turcios Villatoro 26 Maryland Racketeering conspiracy; two counts of murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to distribute cocaine; two counts of use of firearm in federal violent crime resulting in death; witness tampering by killing Multiple life sentences Jairo Aguilera Sagastizado 28 New York Racketeering conspiracy; murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to distribute cocaine; use of firearm in federal violent crime resulting in death Multiple life sentences Manilester Andrade Rivas 34 Virginia Racketeering conspiracy; conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering; conspiracy to distribute cocaine; cocaine distribution 14 years in prison

The FBI and Prince William County Police Department investigated the case, with significant assistance from the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, Prince William County Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney, Northern Virginia Violent Gang Safe Streets Task Force, Northern Virginia Regional Gang Task Force, Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO), Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and U.S. Marshal Service.

Deputy Chief Matthew Hoff of the Criminal Division's Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Blanchard and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen Cain for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecuted the case.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation, Operation City of Bridges. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Topic: Violent Crime

Components: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

Criminal Division

Criminal - Violent Crime and Racketeering Section

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

USAO - Virginia, Eastern

U.S. Marshals Service

Press Release Number: 24-784

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CDS Gen Anil Chauhan releases Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Posted On: 18 JUN 2024 5:53PM by PIB Delhi

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan released the Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations during the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) meeting held on June 18, 2024, in New Delhi. The Joint Doctrine is a keystone publication that will guide Commanders in conducting Cyberspace Operations in today's complex military operating environment.

Development of Joint Doctrines is an important aspect of Jointness and Integration, a step which is being actively pursued by the Indian Armed Forces. The Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations is a significant step to give impetus to the ongoing process. In addition to the traditional domains of warfare including Land, Sea, and Air, Cyberspace has emerged as a crucial and challenging domain in modern warfare. Unlike territorial limits in the domains of land, sea, and air, cyberspace is a global common and hence has shared sovereignty. Hostile actions in cyberspace can impact the Nation's economy, cohesion, political decision making, and the Nation's ability to defend itself. Operations in cyberspace need to be dovetailed into the National Security fabric, to evolve the 'Ends,' 'Ways' and 'Means' to create advantage and influence events in all other operational environments and across all instruments of power.

This doctrine lays emphasis on understanding military aspects of cyberspace operations and provides conceptual guidance to commanders, staff and practitioners in the planning, and conduct of operations in cyberspace, as also to raise awareness in our warfighters at all levels.

***

ABB/Anand



(Release ID: 2026240)

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Russian involvement in China's moon exploration divides space research camps

By Adam Xu June 18, 2024

China aims to mark a new milestone in space exploration next week when its Chang'e-6 probe is expected to return to Earth from the far side of the moon with rock and soil samples.

Scientists involved in the project say the probe is likely to bring back a "treasure trove" of material that will shed light on the differences between the front and back of Earth's satellite.

James Head is an American planetary scientist and professor of Earth, Environmental and Planetary Sciences at Brown University. He has 15 years of experience in cooperating with the Chinese scientific community and participated in the research for the Chang'e-6 lunar landing.

He told VOA in a video interview that the samples brought back by Chang'e-6 from the far side of the moon will be "a treasure chest of fragments of materials, all of which are going to tell us something about why the moon is different on the near side and the far side. It's just amazing."

"It's going to be an international treasure trove of information for space planetary scientists," he added.

The strength of China's space science and technology, demonstrated by the Chang'e series of lunar exploration projects, has also attracted the participation of other countries.

The European Space Agency, France, Italy, and Pakistan responded to the "Chang'e-6 Mission International Payload Cooperation Opportunity Announcement" released by the China National Space Administration in 2019.

They were selected to carry out exploration on the lunar surface and lunar orbit.

Head said, "Not every country has the ability to launch rockets to the moon. So, if you can use your capability, then that's a big deal for international relationships for the countries a essentially the way they're perceived in the world."

The mission, which comes 55 years after the U.S. first sent humans to the moon, has attracted the attention and participation of European and American scientists. However, it also comes at a time when geopolitical tensions are pulling Russia and China closer together to counter Western democracies. Analysts worry that our lunar exploration and space research are quickly being divided into two camps as well.

As China makes significant progress in its lunar program, it is also actively courting other countries to form a parallel alliance with the U.S.-led lunar exploration program.

China and Russia have been planning to cooperate in building the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) since 2021. On June 12, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law approving the cooperation agreement signed by Russia and China last year on the joint construction of the ILRS.

Countries currently participating in the ILRS initiative also include Venezuela, Pakistan, South Africa, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Nicaragua and a university in the United Arab Emirates.

Namrata Goswami, lecturer in space policy and international relations at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, told VOA, "They're (China is) actually changing the narrative to tell nations that want to collaborate with them, that their station is like a strategic high ground, and nations that actually collaborate with China will benefit from this particular focus, which is space resource utilization, and they have stated that officially now."

The Chinese government has said it adheres to the peaceful use of space, but Western analysts have questioned China's motives for developing the moon.

Todd Harrison, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, told VOA in an email, "China tends to have a more mercantilist view of the moon that aligns with its authoritarian form of government, which is in stark contrast to the open, transparent, and free market approach of the United States and its partners."

China has even proposed establishing an Earth-Moon space economic zone and has drawn up a roadmap for it with an annual "total output value of more than US$10 trillion" by around 2050.

Harrison said, "China's main partner for its lunar research base is Russia, and they have managed to attract a handful of other nations to join them, most of which have no significant space capabilities or financial resources to contribute."

In contrast, NASA and the U.S. State Department jointly launched the Artemis Accords in 2020, reaching a multilateral arrangement with more than 30 countries, including Australia, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy, stipulating the principles of civil exploration and cooperation among the contracting parties in outer space.

Neither China nor Russia have joined the agreement initiated by the U.S. Dmitry Rogozin, former head of Russia's space agency, Roscosmos, even said that the Artemis Accords were "illegal" and not in compliance with international law.

"You do see a very clear strategic alignment structure forming, also very long-term clear ambitions as to what each coalition is hoping to do," said Goswami.

Experts say the lunar exploration race of China and Russia versus the U.S. is about more than just resource extraction.

Harrison said, "This is really about setting precedent for how space commerce will be conducted and establishing norms of behavior for activities on the moon. A key component of this race is building international partnerships with shared values and a shared understanding of how the lunar economy should work for the benefit of all. In this respect, China has fallen behind the United States and the free world."

For the European Space Agency, the Chang'e-6 may be their last lunar exploration experiment in cooperation with China, according to an interview posted on the website SpaceNews.

"For the moment there are no decisions to continue the cooperation on the Chang'e-7 or -8," Karl Bergquist, ESA's international relations administrator, he told SpaceNews.

China plans its next lunar probes in the Chang'e series around 2026 and from 2028.

Bergquist also told SpaceNews the ESA will not be involved in the China-led ILRS.

"ESA will not cooperate on ILRS as this is a Sino-Russian initiative and space cooperation with Russia is at present under embargo," he said.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, the European Union, together with the U.S., has imposed embargoes and sanctions on several Russian industries, including a technical embargo on the Russian space industry. The European Space Agency has also terminated its planned lunar exploration project with Russia.

Meanwhile, China has stepped-up its space cooperation with Russia, including allowing Moscow Power Engineering Institute to open a branch at its newest spaceport on southern Hainan Island.

Europe and China's space technology cooperation will continue at least until the Chang'e-6 probe lands back on Earth. The ESA is offering ground support for the return flight from its Maspalomas space station in Gran Canaria island in Spain.

The probe is scheduled to land at a site in Inner Mongolia around June 25.

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Back in black and bigger than ever

By Squadron Leader Eamon Hamilton

18 June 2024

The biggest Exercise Pitch Black in Air Force history will return from July 12 to August 2.

As the Air Force's premier biennial flying activity for strengthening international engagement, Exercise Pitch Black 24 will involve 20 nations and one multinational element.

This includes first-time participation with aircraft from Italy, Papua New Guinea, Philippines and Spain; and personnel from Brunei and Fiji.

Together, they'll work from RAAF Bases Darwin, Tindal and Amberley for three weeks of large-force employment missions in military airspace over the Northern Territory.

Air Commodore Peter Robinson will lead Exercise Pitch Black 24 as Officer Conducting the Exercise.

"This will be the biggest single air exercise that we have hosted in the modern Air Force, with approximately 140 aircraft and more than 4400 personnel participating," Air Commodore Robinson said.

"The size of this exercise will enable cooperation that will go beyond what was possible at any previous Pitch Black, from engaging with our immediate regional partners through to welcoming allies and partners from around the globe.

"For all participants in Exercise Pitch Black, it will be an opportunity to share a breadth of experience, understand one another better, and demonstrate our shared value of sustaining peace and stability across the region."

Hosting the biggest Pitch Black in the exercise's 43-year history will be made possible through the use of new infrastructure and increased use of other bases and facilities.

"We'll use Defence Accommodation Precinct Darwin at Howard Springs for the first time, housing thousands of Australian and multinational participants throughout the exercise," Air Commodore Robinson said.

"RAAF Base Amberley will also take on an increased role in this exercise compared to 2022, with a greater number of tankers and transport aircraft operating from there."

Exercise Pitch Black missions will require complex planning and coordination across hundreds of Australian and international aircrew and thousands of support personnel.

Aircraft will fly over thousands of kilometres of Australian outback in precisely controlled airspace, overcoming dynamic threats by day and night.

While the exercise will be over in three weeks, its benefit to the region will endure.

"Exercise Pitch Black is a tangible example of how Air Force contributes to stability in the region, especially in how we engage in multilateral defence partnerships," Air Commodore Robinson said.

"The 2024 National Defence Strategy outlined the need for Australia to be a more capable security partner for the region, supporting partners' sovereignty and contributing to strategic balance.

"Australia's security and prosperity is tied to the security and prosperity of the region, and Exercise Pitch Black provides the environment to work with partners to build resilience, and deter aggression and coercion."

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Premier Li's visit continues stabilisation of relationship with China

Media release

Tuesday 18 June 2024

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

Prime Minister of Australia

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has welcomed Premier Li Qiang's visit to Australia as an important milestone in stabilising our relationship with China.

Engagement and dialogue between Australia and China at the highest levels are central to our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Premier Li's visit, the first by a Chinese Premier since 2017, included political, business and cultural activities across Adelaide, Canberra and Perth.

In Canberra, leaders met for their Annual Leaders' Meeting, which built on discussions held in Beijing in November 2023.

The Prime Minister raised the full range of Australia's interests during the meeting, including consular, human rights, trade, maritime incidents, regional and multilateral issues. This underlines the vital importance of open dialogue for making progress on our shared interests and managing our differences.

Following the meeting, Australia and China signed a range of agreements to foster closer cooperation on trade and economic issues, education, climate change and culture.

Leaders also welcomed renewed cooperation on areas of mutual interest, including competition, food safety, measurement, standards, intellectual property and tourism.

In Perth, leaders attended the Australia-China CEO Roundtableathe first since 2017. This provided a platform for Chinese and Australian business leaders to exchange perspectives, and strengthen trade and investment between our two countries.

Two-way trade with Chinaaour largest trading partnerawas a record $327 billion in 2023, accounting for 27 per cent of Australia's total goods and services trade.

The Government's steady engagement with China has resulted in the removal of almost all trade impediments on Australian exports to China. The Prime Minister used the visit to advocate for the removal of remaining impediments.

Prime Minister Albanese and Premier Li also attended an event celebrating Chinese-Australian communities, a deeply valued part of the Australian community.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

"Premier Li's visit is another important step in stabilising Australia's relationship with China. "My Government has restored high-level dialogue and engagement with China through our patient, calibrated and deliberate approach. "Dialogue is key to making progress on areas of shared importance, such as trade, education and climate changeaand it allows us to pursue the national interest. "Trade remains the cornerstone of our relationship and my Government's steady engagement has resulted in the removal of almost all trade impediments on Australian exports to China, but there is still more work to do. "Our renewed engagement is critical to managing our differences and underpins our approach to this important relationship. "I will always stand up for Australia's values and interests by frankly raising our concerns about human rights and consular matters, and by advocating for our respective roles in upholding a region that is open, stable and prosperous."

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7th Australia-China CEO roundtable

Speech

Transcript

Tuesday 18 June 2024

Perth

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

Prime Minister of Australia

Premier Li

Minister Wang

Minister for Trade and Tourism, Don Farrell

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Madeleine King

Premier Roger Cook

I'm delighted to be here in Western Australia, where I am almost a local, I think, Premier, with my engagement here with this great state.

I make the point that whilst China is the destination, overwhelmingly above other countries, bigger than the second, third and fourth destination for Australia's exports. 75 per cent of those exports are from the great state of Western Australia.

Making major contribution to our national economy, but also to the growth and expansion and industrialisation that we have seen in the People's Republic of China over recent decades.

I want to thank our co-chairs, Bran Black of the Business Council of Australia and Zhao Huan, for their insights and for all the hard work that you have done to bring this roundtable together of significant business leaders from both of our nations.

Behind every thriving business in this room, right across the sectors you represent, is optimism and determination.

The optimism to seek new markets and new opportunities.

These are the qualities that have underwritten half a century of business-to-business connections between Australia and China.

Ever since the Whitlam Government had the foresight to recognise the People's Republic of China, something that we commemorated last year, the 50th anniversary, with my visit for the resumption of the leader to leader dialogues when I visited not just Beijing for those meetings, but importantly, at the invitation of Premier Li to the world's most significant trade event, which is held in Shanghai.

And I took a number of business leaders, including many of you in this room, from Australia to that trade event there in Shanghai, of which there were literally hundreds of businesses from Australia represented. And literally many hundreds of millions of dollars of deals done while that trade event was going on.

These are the bonds that are strengthened by the aspiration and contribution of our remarkable Chinese Australian community, some 1.4 million people strong, and we will engage with them at a luncheon after this event, and I'm very much looking forward to it.

Our ties have endured and evolved through decades of profound growth and change - both within our nations and across our region.

For over fifty years now, Australian businesses, resources and ideas have helped build and power and shape China's extraordinary economic transformation.

An economic transformation which we must acknowledge has lifted more people out of poverty in recent decades than any nation has achieved in human history. A remarkable achievement of the people and the government of China.

This has also of course benefited Australian companies and Australian workers who have shared from the benefits because of our trade.

The economic ties between Australia and China rely on a regional and global architecture that enables fair trade, drives innovation and facilitates those vital personal and cultural connections nourished by education and tourism and, of course, business.

That's why our Government has made it a priority to invest in our capabilities and invest in our relationships.

Because we know the prosperity that has benefited all of us, depends on peace and stability built by all of us.

A security upheld by sovereignty and shaped by dialogue.

The capacity to acknowledge our differences and manage our disagreements by talking to each other - government to government, leader to leader.

And I appreciate the personal relationship with my friend, the Premier, that we have developed over many meetings, just as our respective Trade Ministers have developed such an important relationship over the two years in which I've had the privilege of being Prime Minister of Australia.

Of course, dialogue is more than just a critical diplomatic pressure valve.

It is also an essential element in the continued success of so many firms in this room.

That's what the resumption of this Roundtable represents.

Business leaders in China and Australia engaging more closely, co-operating in areas of shared interest and gaining a new sense of the opportunities that are there to be seized.

We know the scale of what we can achieve together.

And last year in Shanghai, at the very crowded room I must say Mr Premier, where I think it was a room that probably fitted three hundred people but we managed to fit six hundred people in there, because there was such an enthusiasm from the Australian and the Chinese business community for the engagement that was taking place there.

China is Australia's largest trading partner and since the Free Trade Agreement came into force in 2015, our goods and services exports to China have more than doubled, and Chinese exports to Australia have increased by 76 per cent.

And we can already see the positive difference that clearing away the recent trade impediments has made, for both our nations.

Australian farmers, growers, producers, miners and exporters are benefiting from being able to sell their cotton, copper, coal, timber, oat and hay, barley and wine to China again.

Equally, Chinese consumers and businesses are benefiting from being able to buy these high-quality, high-value Australian exports.

Once again a win-win for both of our nations.

It is fitting that we gather to discuss the future strength of Australia and China's trade and business ties, here in Western Australia.

A state home to such a proud and dynamic Chinese community - and a state whose resources and expertise have played such a pivotal role in China's modernisation.

Three quarters of Australia's exports to China come from here in WA.

And nearly 60 per cent of everything that this state exports, goes to one nation, it goes to China.

In every sense, WA has traded on its strengths: a skilled and educated workforce, a record of safety and reliability, abundant natural resources and world-class industry capabilities.

Our Government's plan for a future made in Australia is about building on this success.

Investing in our nation's capacity to cater to growing global and national demand for the components and expertise essential to clean energy technology and future industries.

Moving Australia up the international value chain.

Processing, refining and manufacturing more green metals and critical minerals here.

And, through our exports, helping China and other nations in our region meet their net zero commitments.

Let me be clear: our commitment to investing in local manufacturing doesn't mean cutting trade ties or pulling-up the economic drawbridge. Far from it.

International partnerships and the inflow of foreign investment will continue to be crucial for Australia as we modernise and diversify our economy, even as we take steps to secure our economic sovereignty and build resilience in sectors that are vital to our national interest.

Making more things here in Australia is about ensuring our businesses can sell a wider range of products to a broader range of markets.

Our plan is about Australia building on our strengths, engaging in our region and succeeding on our terms.

And there is so much for Australia and China to gain from working together including in the global shift to clean energy, advances in manufacturing supply chains and the research and innovation that will drive this progress.

That's why we must work together, and that's why this forum is so important going forward. And that's why I was very pleased to commit with Premier Li to expand engagement on climate change, energy and environment when I visited Beijing in November last year.

The agreements the Premier and I signed yesterday in Canberra: on climate action, education and research, the further implementation of our free trade agreement and the resumption of high-level economic dialogue between our governments will all provide a stronger foundation for closer and more constructive co-operation.

Friends

The resumption of this roundtable is yet another encouraging sign of the stabilisation of the relationship between our two great nations.

It reflects the commitment to dialogue that Australia and China can use to manage our different views and advance our common interests.

This event also speaks for the determination and optimism that we must draw on to meet the challenges of this moment - and build for the opportunities ahead.

The determination to preserve peace, act on climate change, embrace new technologies and build new co-operation.

And the optimism that recognises the value of deeper understanding - the power of personal connections and the essential value of talking to each other and learning from each other.

Let us draw on that determination, go forward with that optimism and work to achieve greater shared success into the future.

For Australia, for China, for the Indo-Pacific and for all who call our region home.

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Address to the community welcome banquet for Premier Li Qiang

Speech

Transcript

Tuesday 18 June 2024

Perth

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

Prime Minister of Australia

I begin by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land on which we meet, and I pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging.

Thank you to Chung Wah Association and the organisers of this event.

It is always such a pleasure to celebrate the great Chinese-Australian community here in Western Australia - as it is anywhere right across our great continent.

And to celebrate you in the presence of Premier Li is truly significant.

This is, of course, the first visit to Australia by a Chinese Premier since 2017.

It follows my visit to China last year - the first by an Australian Prime Minister since 2016.

Welcoming Premier Li to our shores is a timely opportunity to showcase our national values, the qualities of our people, and the strengths of our economy.

We are also showcasing one of Australia's great success stories.

It is a story that the Chinese-Australian community continues to write in our cities, suburbs and regions.

It is a story written in the ink of aspiration and ambition, of energy and hard work.

And it is a story bound so powerfully in the strength of your community.

The Chinese-Australian community - and the proud, beating heart of your community culture that you carry within you - are such an important part of our national story and our national identity.

It's a story that has been written for two centuries now, generation by generation, ever since the 19th century, when the first Chinese people came south seeking opportunity in a land that was at once both new and ancient.

Australia is now proudly home to some 1.4 million people of Chinese ancestry.

The energy carried by all who come here with that greatest of aspirations - to make a new life for themselves and their families - is an energy that has ultimately made Australia a better nation for us all.

Chinese-Australians stand as an important link between the land that is your home, and the land that is home to your beginnings.

And just as you have kept the conversation going at a personal level, it is essential that the governments of Australia and China keep engaging with each other.

My trip to China last year coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our two countries, relations that began with the Australian Labor Government's recognition of the People's Republic of China.

In those 50 years, we have seen China go through extraordinary change. What cannot be overstated is the sheer scale and the speed of the achievement.

In recent decades, China's economic transformation has lifted more people out of poverty than has been achieved over that period of time in any nation.

Western Australia's role in that achievement is undisputable. Indeed, this great state's contribution is spelt out across the skylines of Beijing and Shanghai.

Ninety-nine per cent of Australian iron ore exports to China come from WA.

And when we turn to the fuels of the future energy revolution - including lithium and other critical minerals and rare earths - WA is right there.

That is the extraordinary power of this state.

Like Premier Li's presence here now, my visit to China last year was a step forward in stabilising the relationship between our two nations.

We continue to cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, and engage in our national interest.

And every step of the way, I can tell you that the Australian Government recognises this community as an intrinsic part of the nation we have become.

A nation in which every individual counts and is respected.

A diverse and democratic nation enhanced by people of every faith, background and tradition.

Just as the true magic of an orchestra is that it isn't just the same instrument over and over, our power is that we all play our different parts yet come together in harmony and unity.

And the part your community plays in that is definitely worth celebrating.

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Premier Li's 'fruitful' visit to Australia paves way for further improvement in bilateral ties

Global Times

By Wang Cong, Ma Tong and Zhang Weilan Published: Jun 18, 2024 09:28 PM Updated: Jun 18, 2024 11:56 PM

Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Tuesday called on businesses from China and Australia to continue to deepen cooperation in traditional fields and expand cooperation in new areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology and life science, and stressed the importance of bilateral cooperation in stabilizing industrial and supply chains, while attending a CEO roundtable in Perth, Australia as he was wrapping up a high-stakes visit to the country.

Li's four-day trip to Australia, the first by a Chinese premier to the country in seven years, was fruitful, as both sides reopened various channels for dialogue, especially in the economic and trade arena, and started new initiatives to boost bilateral exchanges, including people-to-people exchanges, paving the way for further improvement in bilateral ties, experts noted.

As the business communities of the two countries play a vital role in stable bilateral relations and as there is a very strong desire among businesses from both countries for collaboration, continuous efforts are needed to facilitate business cooperation, experts said, urging the Australian side to provide a fair, non-discriminatory environment for Chinese businesses and avoid external disruptions.

China's concrete efforts to open up its market for Australian businesses and make it much easier for Australian citizens to visit China underscored its sincerity as well as its responsible attitude as a major country to promote not only win-win bilateral cooperation with Australia, but also peace and development in the broader Asia-Pacific Region, despite certain country's efforts to stir up tension, experts noted.

On Tuesday morning local time, Li and AustralianaPrime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the seventh China-Australia CEO Roundtable in Perth, where the Chinese premier highlighted the positive momentum of stable improvement in bilateral ties and the vast potential for China-Australia cooperation, according to the Xinhua News Agency.

Bilateral cooperation also enjoys broad prospects and is an important force for stabilizing industrial and supply chains and boosting economic growth, Li said.

It is hoped that entrepreneurs from both countries will continue to deepen cooperation in traditional fields, strive to expand new areas of cooperation, and actively deploy future industries such as AI, quantum technology and life sciences, so as to make the pie of win-win cooperation between China and Australia even bigger, Li said.

The Chinese premier also said China is mulling major measures to further comprehensively deepen reforms, steadily expand institutional opening-up, and its business environment will get better and better, urging businesses to seize the opportunity and strive for greater development and fruitful cooperation.

For his part, Albanese said that Australia-China relations are stabilizing and improving, noting the business communities of the two countries are enthusiastic about cooperation. Australia stands ready to strengthen cooperation with China in economy, trade, mineral resources, innovation and other fields, according to Xinhua.

The CEO Roundtable was attended by 14 senior business leaders from each country. Australian business leaders at the meeting include Bran Black, chief executive of the Business Council of Australia, Andrew Forrest, chairman of Fortescue, and Kellie Parker, chief executive of Rio Tinto. Chinese business leaders in attendance include Zhao Huan, chairman and executive director of China Development Bank, Ge Haijiao, chairman of Bank of China, and Jian Anqi, chair of Tianqi Lithium Industries, according to an official statement.

"While it is for governments to set the terms of the trading relationship, it is the role of the business community to bring those relationships to life and look for greater economic and trade opportunities," Black, the Australia chair of the roundtable, was quoted by the statement as saying. "What happens in these Roundtable discussions helps set the tone for business collaboration across our two economies."

Business collaboration is vital for not only economic and trade cooperation between China and Australia but also the stability of bilateral ties, given the strong desire from the business communities of both countries to pursue win-win cooperation, Chinese experts noted.

"Cooperation between Chinese and Australian businesses is an important part of the bilateral relationship. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, exchanges between enterprises of the two countries, especially among entrepreneurs, have significantly promoted the development of bilateral relations," Yu Lei, a professor at the Department of International Politics and Economics at Shandong University, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

Before 2017, Chinese businesses' investments in Australia flourished, but after the previous Australian administration politicized bilateral ties and intervened in bilateral trade and investment cooperation, Chinese investments plunged, Yu noted, adding that while Australian firms' investments in China were affected to a degree, the total figure remained stable thanks to China's openness.

Given the strong aspiration for both sides to stabilize ties and expand cooperation, further efforts should be taken to remove disruptive factors to business collaboration, experts said.

"We need to create a stable environment for companies to ensure that they do not suffer too much disruption in the process of cooperation," Zhou Mi, a senior research fellow at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, told the Global Times on Tuesday, urging Australia to maintain policy continuity, abide by international rules, and avoid politicization of economic issues.

While co-chairing the 9th China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting with Albanese in Canberra on Monday, Li expressed the hope that Australia will fosteraa fair, just and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese businesses, andaprovide more convenience for cross-border travel between the two countries, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

At the meeting, the two sides announced that they will hold the 10th meeting of the Joint Science and Technology Commission, the 8th China-Australia High-Level Dialogue,aand the 8th China-Australia Ministerial Dialogue on Climate Changeain Australia within this year. China will include Australia in its unilateral visa waiver program,aand the two sides have agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access toamultiple-entry visas ofaup to three to five years'aduration for tourism, business, and visiting familyamembers.

Experts said the slew of results underscored that the Chinese premier's trip to Australia was fruitful and will pave the way for further improvement in bilateral ties.

Chen Hong, director of the Australian Studies Center at East China Normal University, said the resumption of multiple communication channels, including the strategic economic dialogue, means that previously closed economic dialogue channels will reopen, which is great news for bilateral ties.

"The high-level dialogues will further bring the bilateral relationship back to the normal track, paving the way for the recovery in trade and investment cooperation," Chen told the Global Times, noting that more good news is expected to emerge as the two countries will likely remove hurdles and boost cooperation.

After wrapping up his visit in Australia, Li will visit Malaysia, the last stop of his three-nation trip, where the two sides are expected to celebrate the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations and discuss ways to promote deeper ties and greater cooperation. Before arriving in Australia, Li visited New Zealand, where the two countries agreed to further expand cooperation and develop bilateral ties, which has been hailed as a model of cooperation between countries with different social systems.

Experts said that in stark contrast to certain country's attempt to stir up tension in the Asia-Pacific region by pitting regional countries against China, China has shown its status as a responsible major country in focusing on promoting peace, development and win-win cooperation with regional countries.

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China opposes politicization of human rights issues, hopes to have mutual progress through exchanges with EU

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Jun 18, 2024 09:47 AM

China opposes the politicization and double standards of human rights issues, opposes using human rights issues to interfere in China's internal affairs, and China hopes that it can achieve mutual progress through exchanges with the EU and make positive contributions to global human rights governance, said Miao Deyu, assistant minister of foreign affairs, while meeting with EU officials on Monday in Beijing.

Miao met with Paola Pampaloni, deputy managing director for Asia and the Pacific in the European External Action Service, who was in China for the 39th China-EU Human Rights Dialogue.

During the meeting, Miao provided a comprehensive briefing on China's human rights principles and achievements and emphasized that the Communist Party of China (CPC)'s fundamental purpose is serving the people wholeheartedly to realize, maintain, and develop the fundamental interests of the people.

China adheres to a people-centered approach, upholding that a happy life for the people is the greatest human right, and has developed a human rights path that aligns with the trends of the times and is suitable for its national conditions, achieving historic accomplishments in its human rights cause, Miao said, noting that China is promoting the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through Chinese-style modernization, which will further enhance human rights protection in China.

China actively participates in global human rights governance, advocating dialogue and cooperation, and contributing to the healthy development of international human rights, Miao said.

China opposes the politicization and double standards of human rights issues, rejects countries imposing own development model on others, opposes using human rights issues to interfere in China's internal affairs, and opposes confrontation and microphone diplomacy on multilateral platforms, Miao said.

China hopes that China and the EU can achieve mutual progress through exchanges and mutual learning and make positive contributions to global human rights governance, the official added.

The EU side said that the dialogue on human rights between China and the EU had enhanced their understanding and knowledge of China and they also expressed willingness to strengthen cooperation with China in multilateral human rights work.

The 39th China-EU Human Rights Dialogue was held in Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality on Sunday and it was co-chaired by the Director-General of the Department of International Organizations and Conferences of the Foreign Ministry Shen Bo and Pampaloni.

During the dialogue, the Chinese side elaborated on China's human rights development path, its ideas about human rights, and achievements, as well as its positions and propositions on global human rights governance.

The Chinese side also lodged stern representations regarding the EU's recent release of the 2023 Annual Report on Human Rights and Democracy and the annual reports on Hong Kong and Macao, emphasizing that issues related to China's Xinjiang, Xizang, Hong Kong, and judicial cases are purely China's internal affairs and should not be subject to external interference.

China demanded that the EU respect the facts and the Chinese people's independently chosen human rights development path and stop interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights issues.

In response to the EU's unfounded accusations regarding judicial procedures, the death penalty, labor rights, ethnic and religious issues, China also firmly refuted and clarified the facts.

The Chinese side also pointed out serious human rights issues in EU countries, such as racial discrimination, infringement on immigrants' rights, restrictions on freedom of speech, religious hatred, judicial injustice, and violence against women, demanding that the EU take practical measures to address these issues.

Both sides agreed that the dialogue was candid and in-depth, contributing to mutual understanding and expressed willingness to explore cooperation in multilateral human rights areas concerning economic, social, and cultural rights, women, children, and persons with disabilities.

From June 13 to 17, the EU delegation went to the Xizang region, visiting projects related to local economic and social development, ethnic and religious affairs, education and culture, and human rights and legal protections. They also held discussions and exchanges with Chinese human rights experts and scholars in Beijing.

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Despite differences, China, EU continue exchanges on human rights

Global Times

By Liu Xin Published: Jun 18, 2024 10:28 PM

China and the EU recently engaged in deep and candid exchanges on human rights. During these discussions, China emphasized its opposition to the politicization and double standards of human rights issues and to using such issues to interfere in China's internal affairs. Despite their differences on human rights topics, both sides remain committed to dialogue, which analysts believe will help dispel negative disinformation and promote the healthy development of China-Europe relations.

On Monday, Miao Deyu, assistant minister of foreign affairs, met with Paola Pampaloni, deputy managing director for Asia and the Pacific in the European External Action Service, who was in China for the 39th session of the China-EU Human Rights Dialogue, according to a release from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Miao said that China opposes the politicization and double standards related to human rights issues, rejects countries imposing own development model on others, opposes using human rights issues to interfere in China's internal affairs, and opposes confrontation and microphone diplomacy on multilateral platforms.

At the press conference on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian also reiterated that China firmly opposes politicizing human rights issues and double standards, and opposes interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights issues.

China stands ready to conduct exchange and cooperation on human rights with the EU on the basis of equality and mutual respect to enhance mutual understanding and trust, broaden consensus, resolve differences and make progress together. "We hope the EU will work with us in the same direction, uphold dialogue and cooperation instead of confrontation and pressuring, and jointly contribute to the international human rights cause," said Lin.

The session was held in Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality on Sunday and it was co-chaired by the Director-General of the Department of International Organizations and Conferences of the Foreign Ministry Shen Bo and Pampaloni.

According to a release the EU External Action published on its website on Monday, during the dialogue, the EU stressed its "concerns" over the situation in China's Xinjiang, Xizang and Hong Kong, and on topics related to the death penalty and labor rights.

In response to the EU's unfounded accusations regarding judicial procedures, the death penalty, labor rights, ethnic and religious issues, China firmly refuted and clarified the facts, according to the release from the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday.

During the dialogue, the Chinese side emphasized that issues related to China's Xinjiang, Xizang, Hong Kong regions, and judicial cases are purely a matter of China's own internal affairs and should not be subject to external interference.

China demanded that the EU to stop interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights issues, according to the release.

There are certain differences between China and Europe in the field of human rights, which is normal given their different understandings of the concept, Cui Hongjian, a professor from the Academy of Regional and Global Governance with Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times.

Cui noted that China emphasizes the right to development, while Europe focuses more on political rights. Additionally, China stresses the diversity of human rights practices and rejects Europe's imposition of its standards on others, arguing that human rights progress is a continuous process that can always improve. China consistently emphasizes that both sides should engage in dialogue with the goal of jointly promoting global human rights progress, while the EU often uses human rights as a policy tool to exert pressure on China.

However, despite all these differences, China remains committed to dialogue and exchanges with Europe, while the presence of these differences also underscores the need for continuous dialogue and exchanges, Cui added.

"While some in the EU attempt to limit the development of China-Europe relations by reducing dialogue and exchanges, we should not abandon dialogue simply because there are disagreements on certain issues. We should maintain an open attitude, seek consensus through continuous dialogue and exchanges, and promote the healthy development of China-Europe relations," Cui said.

While the release from the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that both sides agreed that the dialogue was candid and in-depth, contributing to mutual understanding, the release from the EU also noted that the agenda of the dialogue "allowed for in-depth discussions" on a wide range of human and labor rights developments both in the EU and in China.

The dialogue on human rights between China and the EU took place ahead of the 56th session of the Human Rights Council, scheduled in Geneva from June 18 to July 12. Analysts believe that these recent exchanges will help dispel disinformation about China's human rights.

Aside from engaging in official dialogue, the EU delegation also visited China's Xizang region from June 13 to 17, visiting projects related to local economic and social development, ethnic and religious affairs, education and culture, and human rights and legal protections.

The visit to the Xizang region is also part of the dialogue, providing EU officials with an opportunity to observe the human rights development in the area firsthand. Such arrangements demonstrate China's openness and sincere attitude, Zhang Yonghe, executive dean of the Human Rights Institute of Southwest University of Political Science and Law, told the Global Times.

To break through information barriers and counter disinformation regarding China's human rights, more exchanges between China and the EU are necessary, Zhang emphasized.

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China, SK hold 2+2 dialogue as 'new buffer' to stabilize ties, 'meaningful for NE Asia'

Global Times

By Zhang Han and Zhao Juecheng Published: Jun 18, 2024 09:56 PM Updated: Jun 18, 2024 11:55 PM

China and South Korea on Tuesday held the first 2+2 vice-ministerial level diplomatic and security dialogue in Seoul, among other bilateral channels that were resumed in line with agreements reached during the China-Japan-South Korea trilateral leaders' meeting in late May.

Observers expressed the hope that this upgraded mechanism can help address China-South Korea differences and tackle risks, and increase mutual political trust, so as to stabilize bilateral relations and inject more stability into the region amid uncertainties in Northeast Asia.

Chinese Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong and Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of the Central Military Commission Zhang Baoqun met with South Korea's First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun and Director General for International Policy at the Defense Ministry Lee Seung-beom, according to media reports.

For the 2+2 dialogue, South Korea's priority is the Korean Peninsula situation, which has been worsening in recent months. China wants South Korea to respect its core interests and understand its concerns, namely the Taiwan question, when it develops relations with other countries, observers said, adding the broader security of industrial and supply chains could also be discussed.

Beyond bilateral significance

China and South Korea set up the 2+2 diplomatic and security dialogue at the director-general level in 2002, and decided to upgrade the dialogue to vice-ministerial level in 2020. Since then, the two sides have maintained communication on the specific timing of the dialogue in light of the schedules of the officials leading the dialogue and overall bilateral interaction, and agreed to hold the dialogue on June 18 this year, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday at a routine press briefing.

Holding the upgraded 2+2 dialogue at an early date was among the agreements reached between China and South Korea on the sidelines of the trilateral leaders' meeting in May, per media reports.

The establishment, upgrade and timing of the 2+2 dialogue mechanism were determined quite early on by the two sides in light of the need to grow bilateral relations and "have no particular link to other countries," Lin noted, amid many analyses which connected the dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea.

The 2+2 dialogue is primarily a bilateral mechanism, but "against the backdrop of the prolonged Russia-Ukraine conflict and escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, China-South Korea communication on security matters indeed carries significance beyond the bilateral level, Da Zhigang, director of the Institute of Northeast Asian Studies at the Heilongjiang Provincial Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Tuesday.

Da believes close communication and coordination between China and South Korea could to a certain extent offset the malicious noises hyping a camp confrontation and new Cold War in Northeast Asia.

Observers expect the mechanism to be a "three-fold" platform for strategic communication to enhance mutual recognition and avoid misjudgment; for strategic coordination to maximize common ground and resolve differences to reach consensus; and for risk control and management as well as joint response to emergencies in economic and security areas.

Creating buffers

Dong Xiangrong, senior fellow at the National Institute of International Strategy at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, saw the 2+2 dialogue as a specific embodiment of bilateral efforts to bring their relationship up from a low point.

China and South Korea are important neighbors and trade partners, but the breadth, density, and depth of exchanges between the two countries at various levels do not match the importance of their relationship, Dong said, adding that many mechanisms were interrupted during the pandemic and require speedy recoveries.

Echoing Dong, Da said bilateral communication on diplomacy and security matters has long lagged behind economic and cultural ties. Routine dialogue through the upgraded 2+2 mechanism can help enhance mutual political trust and conversely nurture trade and people-to-people exchanges, Da said.

The 2+2 dialogue is one of multiple positive signals suggesting the Yoon Suk-yeol administration is adjusting its China policy as it faces pressures of governance.

Yoon faces a strong opposition at parliament after the People Power Party losses in the legislative elections in April, a low approval rate dangling between 20-30 percent, and economic problems including soaring prices and youth unemployment.

As Yoon and the People Power Party are unlikely to abruptly change their conservative stance, and South Korea's alliance with the US continues to be a constraint, Da hopes that China and South Korea can multiply and consolidate bilateral mechanisms, creating as many buffers as possible to withstand future challenges.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol in May also agreed to accelerate the second phase of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations and resume people-to-people, cultural and youth exchanges.

The recovery of bilateral relations will not happen overnight, Dong said, as it requires the existing cooperation mechanisms to become active again and new mechanisms to be established. Both sides should have clear and close understanding of the current international situation in order to explore common interests and to make continuous and unremitting efforts to move toward each other.

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Local currency settlement strengthens mutual benefit in foreign trade

People's Daily Online

By Lin Zihan (People's Daily) 08:27, June 18, 2024

Recently, a Chinese-made aircraft leased by Indonesia arrived in Jakarta. It marked China's first cross-border leasing of a homegrown aircraft settled in offshore Chinese yuan.

As China reaches agreements with more trading partners and strengthens the use of local currencies in international trade and financial transactions, cross-border transactions between China and other countries are expected to enjoy greater convenience. This will provide new opportunities for the cooperation on bilateral and regional trade and investment.

Cai Qingfeng, a professor at the School of Economics, Xiamen University and deputy dean of the university's Belt and Road Research Institute, said that the use of local currency settlement aligns with the growing trade between China and the relevant countries and regions, reflecting the increasing demand for trade.

"China has become a main trading partner of over 140 countries and regions, with its total trade in goods ranking first in the world. China has maintained the position of largest trading partner of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for years. It is also the largest trading partner of Africa and second largest of Latin America," said Cai.

He said China has close economic and trade relations with major economies around the world, and its economy is deeply integrated into the global industrial, supply and value chains.

"This provides a broad range of application scenarios and practical demand for promoting local currency settlement," said Cai.

China and relevant countries have achieved fruitful results in the bilateral local currency settlement arrangements.

In September 2021, the People's Bank of China and Bank Indonesia announced the launch of a cooperation framework for promoting the use of local currencies for settlement of bilateral trade and direct investment between China and Indonesia.

This made Indonesia another Belt and Road partner country to establish a bilateral local currency settlement agreement with China, following Vietnam, Laos, Russia, and other six countries.

In early 2023, China and Brazil signed a memorandum of cooperation to phase in the yuan clearing arrangement in Brazil. Brazil announced that it would conduct bilateral trade settlement with China using a local currency.

In March 2023, Chinese and French companies completed the first cross-border yuan-settled trade of liquefied natural gas.

"Local currency settlement, driven by the demand for economic and trade exchanges, is a mutually beneficial choice that aligns with the interests of both parties," said Zou Jingxian, associate professor at the National Academy of Development and Strategy, Renmin University of China.

China has close economic and trade ties with Belt and Road partner countries and other members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, Zou said, adding that the demand for trade provides a solid foundation for promoting cooperation in local currency settlement between China and its foreign partners.

"Using local currency settlement can streamline the exchange process, reduce the economic and time costs of transactions, and provide convenience for cross-border trade. At the same time, local currency settlement helps avoid the exchange rate risks caused by fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar, thus reducing exchange losses and easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves," said Cai.

"Using local currency settlement will encourage Brazilian companies to actively participate in the Chinese industrial chain, especially in areas such as electric vehicles, clean energy, biotechnology, and precision agriculture," said Marcos Pires, director of the Institute of Economics and International Studies at Brazil's Sao Paulo State University.

From a financial perspective, local currency settlement can generate a significant amount of Brazilian real and Chinese yuan capital, thus driving direct investment, Pires added.

According to data from the People's Bank of China, China's cross-border receipts and payments in Chinese yuan totaled 52.3 trillion yuan in 2023, growing 24.2 percent year on year.

In particular, cross-border yuan payments for trade in goods accounted for 25 percent of the total cross-border payments for trade in goods in both domestic and foreign currencies during the same period, an increase of 7 percentage points compared to 2022.

By the end of 2023, the coverage of the Cross-Border Interbank Payment System has expanded to 182 countries and regions worldwide.

Zou stated that the Chinese yuan enjoys strong international credibility. China's comprehensive strength, responsible monetary policies, steady economic growth, and ample foreign exchange reserves, among other factors, serve as reassurances for other countries to accept and use the currency.

She further pointed out that for a currency to be widely used in settlement and clearing, an efficient payment system is indispensable. Currently, China is at the forefront globally in areas such as mobile payments and the use of digital currency.

Cai noted that promoting local currency settlement cooperation between China and other countries and regions benefits the diversification of the international monetary system, mitigating the negative impacts of the U.S. Federal Reserve's monetary policies and exchange rate risks on global economic fundamentals.

"Local currency settlement cooperation between China and relevant countries and regions will further unleash global economy's potential for trade and investment," said Cai.

He noted that promoting local currency settlement cooperation will continuously create favorable conditions for trade and investment between China and its Belt and Road partner countries. This will strengthen economic ties between China and relevant regions, and facilitate investment and trade within those regions.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on June 18, 2024

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

2024-06-18 18:12

From June 19 to 26, at the invitation of Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Nigeria's Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar will pay an official visit to China. During his visit, the two foreign ministers will co-chair the first Plenary Session of China-Nigeria Inter-governmental Committee.

CCTV: Premier Li Qiang today concluded his first official visit to Australia with stops in Adelaide, Canberra and Perth on a tight schedule. Couldayou share with us more details and the major outcomes of the visit?

Lin Jian: At the invitation of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Premier Li Qiang paid an official visit to Australia from June 15 to 18.

Yesterday, Premier Li Qiang andaPrime Minister Albanese co-chaired the Ninth China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting and jointly met the press. Notingathat this year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping's state visit to Australia and theaestablishment of China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership, Premier Li Qiangapointed out that theamost important experience drawn from the past decade of development of China-Australia relations is that the two sides should respect each other, seek common ground while shelving differences and engage in mutually-beneficial cooperation. Since Prime Minister Albanese's visit to China last November, more progress has been made in resuming and enhancing dialogue and cooperation between China and Australia in various fields, leading to the comprehensive turnaround of bilateral relations. China is ready to work with Australia to sustain and build on the hard-won positive momentum in bilateral ties, and jointly advance a more mature, stable and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership to deliver more benefits to the two peoples.

Premier Li Qiang pointedaout that the China-Australia relationshipais mutually beneficial in nature, and the two countries' development is each other's opportunities, not challenges. China is ready to work with Australia to uphold the comprehensive strategic partnership,agive full play to suchamechanisms as the China-Australia Strategic Economic Dialogue, expandatrade, broadenacooperation in areasalikeanewaenergy vehicles and renewable energy power generation, and step up exchanges and cooperation inaculture,atourism and other fields and at the sub-national level. Premier Li Qiang expressed theahope that Australia will fosteraa fair, just and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese businesses, andaprovide more facilitation for travel between the two peoples.aChina is ready to step up coordination and cooperation with Australiaaat the regional and international levels, stand against bloc confrontation and a new Cold War in the interest of peace and stability in the region, stay open and inclusive, thrive together, and jointly promote regional economic integrationaand an open world economy.

The two prime ministers agreed to uphold the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership, cementathe momentum of improvement and growth in bilateral relations, and jointly uphold regional and global peace, stability and prosperity. The two sides announced that they will hold the 10th meeting of the Joint Science and Technology Commission, the Eighth China-Australia High-Level Dialogue,aand the Eighth China-Australia Ministerial Dialogue on Climate Changeain Australia within this year. The two sides confirmed the plan to resume the China-Australia Strategic Economic Dialogue this year, agreed to hold the next round of China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting in 2025. Both sides welcomed the further increase of people-to-people exchanges. China will include Australia in its unilateral visa waiver program,aand the two sides agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access toamultiple-entry visas ofaup to three to five years' duration for tourism, business, and visiting familyamembers.

After the meeting, the two prime ministers jointly witnessed the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation documents on strategic economic dialogue, the implementation of free trade agreement, climate change response, education and culture, among others. The two sides issued the Statement on Joint Outcomes of the China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting.

During his visit in Canberra, Premier Li Qiang also met with Australian Governor-General David Hurley, President of the Australian Senate Sue Lines, Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives Milton Dick and Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton. In Adelaide, Premier Li Qiang looked at the China-Australia cooperative research on the conservation of giant pandas. Today in Perth, Premier Li Qiang and Prime Minister Albanese jointly attended theaChina-Australia CEO RoundtableaMeeting.

China News Service: It was reported that the China-EU Human Rights Dialogue was held in China a few days ago. Can you share some details about how the dialogue went?

Lin Jian: From June 13 to 17, China and the EU held the new round of Human Rights Dialogue in China. In Beijing, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Miao Deyu met with head of the EU delegation, Deputy Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service Paola Pampaloni. Director General of the Department of International Organizations and Conferences of the Foreign Ministry Shen Bo and Paola Pampaloni co-chaired the China-EU Human Rights Dialogue in Chongqing. Representatives from China's legislative, judicial, ethnic and women departments attended the dialogue. The Chinese side fully elaborated on China's human rights development path, philosophy and achievements and China's position and propositions on global human rights governance. The Chinese side protested against the China-related contents in the 2023 Annual Report on Human Rights and Democracy in the World and the annual reports on Hong Kong and Macao recently released by the EU, stressed that affairs related to Xinjiang, Xizang and Hong Kong as well as individual judicial cases are purely China's internal affairs that brook no external interference, and asked the EU to earnestly respect facts and the human rights development path independently chosen by the Chinese people and stop interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights. In response to the EU's groundless accusations against China's judicial procedure, death penalty, labor rights and issues related to ethnic groups and regions, China laid out the facts that prove otherwise and firmly refuted these allegations. The Chinese side pointed to the human rights issues that exist in EU countries, including racial discrimination, infringement on the rights of refugees and immigrants, restriction on freedom of speech, religious hatred, judicial unfairness and violence against women, and asked the EU side to earnestly resolve these issues. Both sides believed that the dialogue was candid, profound and conducive to better mutual understanding, and both sides expressed readiness to explore cooperation in multilateral human rights areas concerning economic, social and cultural rights, women, children and people with disability.a aa

On the margins of the dialogue, the EU delegation visited the Xizang Autonomous Region, where they visited local programs related to socioeconomic development, ethnic community, religion, education, culture, human rights and the rule of law. The delegation said they gaineda understanding of the reality in the region, especially how relevant policies work and what they have achieved. The delegation also had discussions and exchanged views with Chinese human rights experts in Beijing.

Let me stress that China stands ready to conduct exchange and cooperation on human rights with the EU on the basis of equality and mutual respect to enhance mutual understanding and trust, broaden consensus, resolve differences and make progress together. That said, China firmly opposes politicizing human rights issues and double standards, opposes imposing one's own development models on others, opposes interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights issues, and opposes megaphone diplomacy on multilateral platforms. We hope the EU will work with us in the same direction, uphold dialogue and cooperation instead of confrontation and pressuring, and jointly contribute to the international human rights cause.

Global Times: The Venezuelan government released a statement on June 17 to strongly oppose the process of a US court-mandated auction of Citgo Petroleum Corporation, a subsidiary of Venezuelan national oil company PDVSA in the US, calling the action a clear violation of the law and plundering of Venezuela's assets. What's China's comment?

Lin Jian: China stands firmly for the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations. We oppose the US's unlawful unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction against Venezuela. The US needs to fully stop interfering in the internal affairs of Venezuela right away, lift all unlawful unilateral sanctions on Venezuela, and do things that are conductive to peace, stability and development of Venezuela and other countries.a

Kyodo News: Russian President Putin will arrive in Pyongyang this afternoon for a state visit to the DPRK. What is your comment on the current sound relations between Russia and the DPRK?

Lin Jian: We answered similar questions before. This is bilateral engagement between Russia and the DPRK.

Bloomberg: A bipartisan group of US lawmakers led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, is visiting Dharamshala and will meet Dalai Lama soon. Also, at the same time, the US Congress passed the Resolve Tibet Act this week. The legislation strengthens US support for Tibet. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law soon. Would the Foreign Ministry like to comment on these two developments?

Lin Jian: It's known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a pure religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion. We are gravely concerned over the relevant reports and urge the US side to fully recognize the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honor the commitments the US has made to China on issues related to Xizang, have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world.

On the relevant act in the US congress, let me stress that Xizang has always been part of China since ancient times. Xizang's affairs are purely China's domestic affairs and no external interference will ever be allowed. Xizang today enjoys social stability and harmony, with sound economic performance and people's well-being well protected. Xizang keeps making fresh progress in effectively running its society and achieving high-quality development. No one and no force should ever attempt to destabilize Xizang to contain and suppress China. Such attempts will never succeed.

We urge the US side to adhere to its commitments of recognizing Xizang as part of China and not supporting "Xizang independence." The US must not sign the bill into law. China will take resolute measures to firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests.aa

Bloomberg: We've seen indications that from July 1, Chinese citizens can no longer enter Ecuador without a visa. Ecuador has been obviously the starting point of a land journey that tens of thousands of Chinese migrants take to reach the US. Does the Foreign Ministry have any comment on this?

Lin Jian: The agreement on mutual visa exemption between China and Ecuador, since it took effect in August 2016, has played an important and positive role in promoting cross-border travel and practical cooperation in various fields between the two countries. The Chinese government firmly opposes all forms of human smuggling. In recent years, Chinese law enforcement departments have made tremendous efforts to fight crimes that involve obstructing national frontier and border administration, and remained tough on all kinds of human smuggling groups and individuals engaged in illegal immigration. Their effort has produced good results. At the same time, Chinese law enforcement departments are working with relevant countries to jointly tackle human smuggling activities, repatriate illegal immigrants and maintain a good order in cross-border travel.

AFP: NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned China yesterday, saying that if China continues to provide military technologies for Russia and help Russia in the Ukraine war, "allies need to impose a cost" on China. What's your comment?a

Lin Jian: NATO is the legacy of the Cold War and the world's biggest military group. The world has seen what kind of role NATO has played in the Ukraine crisis. What the NATO should do is reflect on itself, rather than smear and attack China. China is not a creator of or a party to the Ukraine crisis. We are committed to promoting talks for peace. China's objective and just position and constructive role are widely recognized by the international community. We urge relevant parties to stop deflecting the blame and sowing discord, stop fueling the flame and inciting bloc confrontation, and take concrete actions to promote the political settlement of the crisis.

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Australia complains after Chinese officials block view of Cheng Lei

Australian journalist who was jailed in China was covering Premier Li Qiang's press conference.

By Lee Heung Yeung and Ray Chung for RFA Cantonese, Lionel TC for RFA Mandarin 2024.06.18 -- The Australian government said Tuesday it has complained to Beijing after Chinese officials tried to block formerly jailed Chinese state TV journalist Cheng Lei from view during a news conference by Premier Li Qiang during his visit to the country.

Two Chinese officials stood next to Cheng, an Australian citizen who formerly worked as a business reporter for China's state-run CGTN. She was jailed in China for nearly three years in 2022 after being accused of "illegally providing state secrets she acquired at work to overseas institutions."

She was deported and reunited with her family in Australia in November after serving the sentence.

Cheng, who now works for Sky News, attended Li's news conference in Canberra on Monday, but Chinese officials appeared keen to ensure she didn't make it into any news footage of the event.

That prompted a complaint from the Australian government, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told Australian broadcaster ABC on Tuesday.

"Our officials have followed up with the Chinese Embassy to express our concern," Albanese said. "When you look at the footage, it was a pretty clumsy attempt, frankly, by a couple of people to stand in between where the cameras were and where Cheng Lei was sitting."

The footage also shows Cheng switching to a different seat, and an Australian official speaking with one of the Chinese officials.

Two Australian officials then stand next to Cheng in her new seat, preventing Chinese officials from getting close enough to block her out of shot.

"Australian officials intervened, as they should have, to ask the Chinese officials who were there at the press conference to move, and they did so," Albanese said, adding: "When I held my press conference, Cheng Lei got the first question."

Protests outside

Li's visit was also marred by protests outside the Australian Parliament on Monday, where protesters chanted in support of "Hong Kong independence" and against the Chinese Communist Party's territorial claims on democratic Taiwan.

The protests themselves were also disrupted by clashes with supporters of Beijing, who started hitting protesters for tearing down China's national flag as part of their demonstration.

"One member who was shouting loudly was slapped by a Chinese guy, then a group of elderly Chinese started surrounding us and blocking us from view," a Hong Kong protest organizer who gave only the nickname Isaiah told RFA Cantonese on Monday.

"When we opened our umbrellas, some of them pushed back at the umbrellas," he said. "They started it by hitting us, and we acted with reasonable force out of self-defense."

A protester who gave only the nickname Bonnie said the pro-China activists had targeted the women in their group.

"At one point, Chinese patriots targeted our female members and tried to wrap the Chinese flag around our heads and then pull it," she told RFA Mandarin.

Trampled Tibetan flag

Several witnesses reported that Beijing's supporters had also snatched a Tibetan Snow Lion flag and threw it to the ground and trampled on it.

When three Tibetans rushed into the group and tried to take back the flag, the Australian police immediately stepped forward to stop them and pinned one of the Tibetans to the ground, handcuffing him.

Police officers also restrained Australian journalist Vicky Xu by the neck and arms after she questioned their response to clashes between protesters and supporters of Beijing.

The police later confirmed to RFA Mandarin that a man had been arrested outside the Parliament on Monday on suspicion of "breach of the peace," a generic public order offense, and ordered not to go back there.

There was no response from the Chinese Embassy to requests for comment.

Life in prison

In his meeting with Li Qiang, Albanese also raised the case of Australian writer Yang Hengjun, who was handed a suspended death sentence for espionage by the Beijing No. 2 Intermediate People's Court in February.

According to the verdict, the court found Yang guilty of providing intelligence to Taiwan's intelligence agency while working in Hong Kong in 1994, sentencing him to death, convertible to life imprisonment after two years, and depriving him of all his personal property.

Albanese has presided over a period of relative detente with Beijing since he took office in 2022, but analysts said Canberra is now much more cautious about how it manages ties with Beijing.

Li told the news conference that Beijing wants to build a "more mature, stable, and fruitful comprehensive strategic partnership" with Canberra, while Albanese said there had been progress on "military to military communication so as to avoid incidents."

The two leaders also agreed that China will add Australia to its visa waiver programme to promote bilateral trade and tourism.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content June 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 President's Visit to DPRK Welcomed: Newspapers of DPRK

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, June 18 (KCNA) -- At the invitation of Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation, will pay a visit to the DPRK.

Leading newspapers of the DPRK Tuesday in editorials say that the DPRK people warmly welcome President Putin visiting with the feelings of friendship of the brave and righteous Russian people.

His visit to the DPRK is a significant occasion of weighty significance in developing the DPRK-Russia good-neighborly relations onto a new high stage, Rodong Sinmun says, adding:

The deep-rooted relations of friendship and cooperation between the two countries are now greeting a new heyday under the deep care of the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un and the respected President Putin.

Kim Jong Un made precious and satisfactory agreements with Putin, paying a goodwill visit to the Russian Federation twice. Those agreements became a sure milestone for comprehensively and more vigorously developing the DPRK-Russia relations of friendship and cooperation in keeping with the requirements of the new era and the complicated international political situation.

In September last, he had a historic meeting with Putin at the Vostochny Spaceport and visited the world-leading space launching base under his guidance and looked round the military, economic, scientific, educational and cultural achievements made by the Russian people. Such historic scenes greatly moved the peoples of the two countries and drew the world attention to a great extent.

Putin's heartwarming hospitality towards Kim Jong Un , the cordial hospitality transcending the custom, was a clear manifestation of the deep friendship and comradely relationship between the top leaders of the two countries.

The contact and cooperation between the DPRK and Russia are getting stronger day by day and substantial progress is being made to contribute to realizing the interests of their peoples under the agreements reached by the top leaders of the two countries.

Putin's visit to the DPRK will add a brilliant page to the history of friendship and solidarity between the peoples of the two countries and give fresh vitality to the development of the good-neighborly cooperative relations between the two countries.

Minju Joson says that the DPRK people sincerely hope that Putin will achieve greater success, through his visit to the DPRK, and spend pleasant and significant days amid their warm and sincere hospitality towards the friendship mission of Russia. -0-

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Russian People Will Surely Win Victory of Justice

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, June 18 (KCNA) -- The anti-imperialist independent forces are working hard to defend the sovereignty and security of their countries and build an independent multi-polar world. On the contrary, the hegemony-seeking forces insist on a uni-polar world. Their fierce confrontation is mirrored in the on-going Russia's special military operations against Ukraine, showing apparent contradiction between justice and injustice.

The persistent moves of the U.S. and the West to stamp out the existence and position of Russia as an independent and powerful state entity and a great power have become the main factor in triggering off the present Ukrainian situation.

NATO's reckless policy of "eastward advance" that constantly compresses the security sphere of Russia and the emergence of Ukrainian neo-Nazi forces going hysterical in their racket against Russia at their master's beck and call, compelled Russia to launch special military operations as a self-defensive countermeasure.

President Vladimir Putin said on several occasions that the special military operations are aimed at demilitarizing and denazifying Ukraine and getting rid of the elements posing threat to the security of his country in the Ukrainian territory.

However, the U.S. and the West kicked off a madcap proxy and mixed war to isolate and weaken Russia, describing its military operations of self-defensive and limited nature as "war of aggression" and "unjust war".

They have supplied to Ukraine huge amounts of war hardware including internationally banned WMDs, employing all means and methods such as "record-breaking" economic sanctions, espionage, plot-breeding, red herring operations and fomentation of terrorism against Russia. The degree of such a despicable all-round mixed war covering all spheres and realms goes beyond the world people's imagination.

Nevertheless, the U.S. and the West have resorted to more dangerous gamble crossing the "red line" of Russia in a bid to turn the ever-worsening tide of the war as they failed to attain their goal of inflicting a "strategic defeat" upon Russia.

Late in May, U.S. President Biden enabled Ukraine to attack the Russian mainland with U.S. weapons by easing restrictions.

It means that the U.S. gave the green light to Ukraine's attack on the major objects in the Russian mainland with U.S.-made weapons by removing such half-hearted restrictions as "for self-defense of Ukraine" and "with guarantee of not striking targets in the Russian territory" so far touted in its munitions support for the Zelenskiy-led puppets.

The U.S. prodded the U.K., France and other followers in NATO into lifting the restrictions on Ukraine's use of their weapons in attacking the Russian territory. Worse still, they openly talk about the dispatch of their support ground troops to Ukraine.

Such permission given by the U.S. and the West clearly shows the aggressive nature of the U.S. and the West's policy toward Russia.

As seen above, the worst crisis ever since the end of the Cold War, called the direct confrontation between Russia and the U.S.-led NATO and the all-out standoff between nuclear weapons states, is looming.

Crystal clear is what consequences such showdown will bring about.

The current situation shows that Russia's special military operations are not only a sacred war to defend its security and dignity against the Ukrainian neo-Nazi forces and the U.S.-led imperialist hegemonic forces but also a part of the historical course for preserving regional stability and international justice and establishing a fair and peaceful new international order.

The special military operations have developed into a sacred war of all Russian citizens and the "Second Patriotic War" for defending national sovereignty and prestige, international justice and peace under the leadership of President Vladimir Putin. Their victory has become definite.

President Putin was reelected with overwhelming majority support in the presidential election held in March this year, the third year after the operation started. It is the Russian people's high appreciation and absolute support for the state leadership.

As a result, the black-hearted design of the West to stir up division and rebellion in Russia through the protraction of dispute ended in vain and the spiritual centre for guaranteeing the victory and unity of the Russian people has been further consolidated.

The recently opened forum "Everything for Victory!" involves all citizens, from the president to people from all walks of life in Russia. From this fact one can clearly understand the social atmosphere prevailing in Russia, which is oriented totally to victory on the front.

Russia is successfully overcoming the unprecedentedly harsh sanctions by the West seeking to bring its economy to collapse at a stroke.

The Russian leadership turned on the wartime economic system and adopted a flexible economic strategy right after the launch of special military operations, thus achieving stable economic development and promoting the qualitative and quantitative growth of munitions industry despite the super-tough pressure by the U.S. and the West. This is a remarkable success.

Russia's military edge is further assured on the Ukrainian battlefield.

Since the start of special military operations, the production of tanks and vehicles has increased by five and seven times respectively, the strategic nuclear force has been updated at 95 percent and the proportion of modern weapons and equipment on the part of the anti-aircraft units has now reached more than 80 percent.

The nuclear-powered cruise missile "Burevestnik" and superheavy missile "Sarmat", etc., which were personally unveiled by President Putin last year, are just a few examples that show Russia's military superiority over the West.

Such Western weapons as the U.S. Army's main battle tank "Abrams", billed as the "strongest in the world," are reduced into "masses of scrap iron" by strikes from Russian forces. And this has become a commonplace on the Ukrainian battlefield.

Screams of bitter defeat have already been heard in the Western world witnessing this Russia's overwhelming strength.

Just as the Red Army and the Soviet people defeated fascism, singing aloud the song "The Sacred War" in the last century, the Russian army and people, their honorable descendants, will continue to glorify the tradition of victors in the present sacred war to defend the sovereign rights of the country and ensure regional and global peace and security.

The Korean people will always be on the side of the Russian government and people, extending full support and solidarity to their struggle to defend the national sovereignty and security interests, frustrate the imperialist hegemony and high-handed practices and build an independent multi-polar world.

The struggle of justice will surely lead to a victory of justice and no force can stem the current of the times oriented to independence and justice. -0-

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Historic Meeting to Be Specially Recorded in Great Heyday of DPRK-Russia Friendship President of Russian Federation Arrives in Pyongyang to Pay State Visit to DPRK Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Warmly Receives President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, June 19 (KCNA) -- At a crucial time when the friendly relations between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation have emerged as a strong strategic fortress for preserving international justice, peace and security and an engine for accelerating the building of a new multi-polar world, another meeting of the top leaders of the two countries took place in Pyongyang, amply demonstrating once again the invincibility and durability of the DPRK-Russia friendship and unity.

Pyongyang International Airport was decked in a festive attire to warmly welcome as the highest state guest President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin of the Russian Federation who will pay a state visit to the DPRK at the invitation of Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the DPRK.

The national flags of the DPRK and the Russian Federation were fluttering at the top of flagstaffs.

Seen at the airport were Alexandr Matsegora, Russian ambassador to the DPRK, and his embassy members.

The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un came to the airport to greet Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin.

A private plane of the president of the Russian Federation landed on Pyongyang International Airport.

Kim Jong Un met with Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin in an exciting atmosphere.

Kim Jong Un shook hands with Putin and embraced him warmly, expressing his joy and gladness to meet him again in Pyongyang 270-odd days after the meeting at the Vostochny Spaceport in September 2023.

Being pleased that his Pyongyang visit was realized, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin expressed deep thanks to Kim Jong Un for coming to the airport to greet him warmly.

Putin was presented with a bouquet by a woman worker.

Among his entourage were Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Mantrov, Deputy Prime Minister Alexandr Nobak, Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration and concurrently President's Press Secretary Dmitri Peskov, Aide to the President of Russia for Foreign Policy Yuri Ushakov, Minister of Defense Andrei Beloussov, Minister of Natural Resources and Ecology and concurrently Chairman of the Russian Side of the Russia-DPRK Inter-Governmental Committee for Cooperation in Trade, Economy, Science and Technology Alexandr Kozlov , Minister of Health Mikhail Murashuko and Minister of Transport Roman Starovoyt.

Kim Jong Un took Putin's private car to guide him to his lodging quarters.

Passing through charmingly lit streets of Pyongyang at night, the top leaders exchanged their pent-up inmost thoughts and opened their minds to more surely develop the DPRK-Russia relations in conformity with the common desire and will of the peoples of the two countries with the meeting as a momentum.

They arrived at the lodging quarters Kumsusan State Guest House.

Kim Jong Un personally guided Putin, having a friendly chat with him.

Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin's visit to the DPRK at a remarkable time, when the traditional relations of friendship and cooperation between the DPRK and Russia have surely entered a course of new comprehensive development, is of great importance in reliably promoting the strategic and future-oriented development of the DPRK-Russia relations consolidated in the trials of history generation after generation and century after century and powerfully propelling the cause of building a powerful country, a desire common to the peoples of the two countries. -0-

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DPRK top leader meets with visiting Russian president

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:21, June 19, 2024

SEOUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), greeted visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Pyongyang International Airport, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Wednesday.

Kim shook hands with Putin and embraced him warmly, the report said.

The DPRK leader expressed his joy and gladness to meet Putin again in Pyongyang some 270 days after their meeting at the Vostochny Spaceport in September last year, the KCNA reported.

The Russian president extended his deep gratitude to the DPRK leader for coming to the airport to greet him.

The two leaders had a friendly chat after arriving at the lodging quarters Kumsusan State Guest House, according to the report.

Putin's visit is of great importance in "reliably promoting the strategic and future-oriented development of the DPRK-Russia relations," the report said.

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Deputy Secretary Campbell's Meeting with Indian Foreign Secretary Kwatra and Deputy National Security Advisor Misri

US Department of State

Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

June 18, 2024

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell met today with Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra and Deputy National Security Advisor Vikram Misri in New Delhi, India to discuss their enduring commitment to strengthening the U.S.-India partnership. Deputy Secretary Campbell congratulated Prime Minister Modi and the NDA government on their victory in national elections, and the people of India on making their voices heard in the largest democratic elections in history. They also discussed ways to strengthen regional and multilateral coordination across the Indo-Pacific region, including via the Quad partnership. Both the Deputy Secretary and Foreign Secretary expressed their intention to continue cooperation in ensuring a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

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India, US to strengthen high technology cooperation

By Anjana Pasricha June 18, 2024

Days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his third term in office, India and the United States agreed to strengthen cooperation in high technology areas during a visit by White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan to New Delhi.

Sullivan met Modi, the Indian foreign minister and his Indian counterpart during the visit that reaffirmed both countries will pursue closer ties.

"India is committed to further strengthen the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership for global good," Modi wrote on X after meeting Sullivan on Monday.

The main focus of Sullivan's visit was to hold discussion with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on a landmark initiative launched by the two countries in January last year to collaborate more closely in high-technology areas including defense, semiconductors, 5G wireless networks and artificial intelligence.

The initiative, launched with an eye to countering China, marks a significant push in tightening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

"The visit by Sullivan in the early days of Modi's new administration signals that the U.S. wants to maintain the momentum in the high technology partnership between the two countries," according to Manoj Joshi, Distinguished Fellow at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi.

A joint fact sheet by the two countries following Sullivan's meeting with Doval said that they launched a new strategic semiconductor partnership between U.S. and Indian companies for precision-guided ammunition and other national security-focused electronics platforms.

They also agreed to co-invest in a lithium resource project in South America and a rare earths deposit in Africa "to diversify critical mineral supply chains" and discussed possible co-production of land warfare systems, according to the fact sheet.

Growing the domestic defense manufacturing sector remains a top focus for the Modi administration as it looks to lower its dependence on imported arms. Although India has diversified its imports of military equipment, it is still heavily reliant on Russia.

For India, the technology initiative is a top priority as it looks to strengthen the country's security and build its capabilities in high technology areas.

"India wants to become one of the leading countries in cutting edge technologies and it is of great benefit for New Delhi to partner the U.S. which is the leader in these areas," said Joshi. "The idea is to get into co-production, co-development, innovation and attract American companies to set up bases here."

Sullivan also met Indian foreign minister Subrahmanyan Jaishankar, who has been retained as the external affairs minister in Modi's new administration, signaling a continuation in the country's foreign policy. "Confident that India-US strategic partnership will continue to advance strongly in our new term," Jaishankar wrote on X.

In Washington, White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby told reporters Monday that India and the U.S. "share a unique bond of friendship and Mr. Sullivan's trip to India will further deepen the already strong U.S.-India partnership to create a safer and more prosperous Indo-Pacific."

New Delhi's ties with Washington have expanded in recent years amid mutual concerns in both countries about an assertive China -- India's military standoff with Beijing along their disputed Himalayan borders remains unresolved four years after a clash between their troops.

As Sullivan visited India, an Indian national, Nikhil Gupta, charged with trying to hire a hitman to assassinate a Sikh separatist leader in the U.S., appeared in court in New York Monday following his extradition from the Czech Republic. The alleged plan was foiled.

Allegations by U.S. prosecutors of the involvement of an Indian government official in the plot to kill Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a dual US-Canadian citizen, have raised concerns about a strain in bilateral ties.

The U.S. allegations followed accusations leveled by Canada in September of involvement of Indian nationals in the killing of a Canadian Sikh leader.

India, which views Sikh separatist groups overseas as security threats, has denied its involvement in both the killing in Canada and the alleged plot in the U.S. But it said it has set up an inquiry committee to examine the information provided by Washington.

Analysts in New Delhi say ties are unlikely to be adversely impacted by the alleged murder plot. "The U.S. is quite pragmatic on these matters. They are continuing to stress that ties with India are important, so I don't think a failed conspiracy will derail ties," Joshi said.

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Pezeshkian says he favors diplomacy but vows not to cave in to coercion

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 June 2024 2:01 PM

Masoud Pezeshkian, one of the six candidates in the June 28 presidential election, says he is not against diplomacy and negotiations but will not cave in to coercion.

Pezeshkian, a former Minister of Health and a seasoned lawmaker who has also previously served as the deputy parliament speaker, made the remarks on a national TV program on Tuesday, as he outlined his foreign policy agenda if elected president.

"Diplomacy and negotiation do not amount to humiliation. We are not going to fight with anyone, unless they want to harm the honor and pride of our country. We will not cave in to coercion, which is against our dignity."

The presidential candidate further noted that improving people's standard of living is among his main priorities, while emphasizing that foreign policy has a significant impact on people's lives.

Pezeshkian went on to say that internal unity could contribute to a successful foreign policy.

"Without a well-established and consensual foreign policy, we cannot advance and achieve the country's economic interests," he said.

The contender also emphasized that internal differences should be set aside to achieve progress. "Experts should help find solutions to foreign policy issues."

"If someone was able to solve these issues, don't blame him. Blaming others won't solve any problems," he said.

Iran will vote for a new president on June 28. The election was called after president Ebrahim Raeisi lost his life along with seven others on May 19, when a helicopter carrying them crashed into a mountainous area in northwest Iran amid foggy conditions.

Six candidates have been approved by the Iranian Constitutional Council, which is a 12-member body overseeing elections.

Campaigning officially started for Iran's upcoming election on June 9, which includes five live, televised debates on the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), and will continue until 24 hours before the election.

The new administration, the 14th one after the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979, will assume power in late June or early July and hold office for four years.

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Activists Condemn Iran-Sweden Prisoner Swap Of Convicted War Criminal Nouri

By RFE/RL's Radio Farda June 18, 2024

International human rights groups and activists have strongly condemned a prisoner exchange between Sweden and Iran that involved Hamid Nouri, a former Iranian prison official convicted in the Nordic country of crimes against humanity.

Nouri, who was exchanged on June 15 for Swedish nationals Johan Floderus and Saeid Azizi, returned to Iran using his alias "Hamid Abbasi," a name linked to the executions of political prisoners in 1988.

Upon his arrival in Tehran, Nouri was met with a mixed reception, a reflection on his controversial past and the contentious nature of the swap.

Floderus is a Swedish EU diplomat held in captivity for two years in Iran on espionage charges that he, the EU, and Stockholm said were fabricated. Azizi was arrested in Iran last November on what Sweden has called "wrongful grounds."

"The Swedish government has thrown dirt into the face of justice in the world by handing over a 'criminal' to the Islamic republic," said Iranian lawyer and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi, noting Nouri's conviction for gross violations of international humanitarian laws.

"This disgrace and scandal will never be forgotten," Ebadi added.

Swedish prosecutors originally detained Nouri in 2019, basing their case on the principle of universal jurisdiction, which allows for the prosecution of severe crimes irrespective of location.

After a detailed and lengthy trial, Nouri was sentenced in May 2022 to life imprisonment for his role in the massacre of political prisoners during the summer of 1988.

Iran has arrested dozens of foreign and dual nationals in recent years on espionage charges that they and their governments say are groundless. Critics say Tehran uses such arbitrary detentions as part of hostage diplomacy to extract concessions from Western countries, which Tehran denies.

"The Islamic republic will take more innocent foreign and dual nationals hostage, repress people at home, and terrorize those abroad," actress and activist Nazanin Boniadi said.

"The international community needs a new approach. One that deters, not appeases the regime."

Esmat Vatanparast, who lost 11 members of her extended family during the 1988 mass executions -- including her two daughters and three brothers -- told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that "my heart broke today, tears came to my eyes, but I remain hopeful for the people of Iran" after hearing of the exchange.

The exchange was also criticized for failing to include Ahmadreza Djalali, an Iranian-Swedish researcher who has been imprisoned in Iran since 2016.

Vida Mehrannia, Djalali's wife, expressed her dismay, announcing plans to protest in front of the Swedish Foreign Ministry against the exchange, which she labeled "shameful."

Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-sweden-prisoner- swap-war-criminal-nouri/32998237.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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Netanyahu's cabinet can be overthrown: Lapid

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Jun 18, 2024

Tehran, IRNA -- The Israeli regime's opposition leader Yair Lapid has slammed prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet as "deranged and incompetent," saying it can be overthrown by opposition forces.

"The cabinet should be overthrown, I think it can be overthrown," Lapid said in comments carried by the Israeli media on Tuesday.

Lapid, a former prime minister, added that Benny Gantz' withdrawal from the war cabinet has given the opposition "the means" to bring down the cabinet.

Netanyahu dissolved the six-member war cabinet on Monday after Gantz, a former military chief, left the body that had been established to oversee the war on Gaza.

Lapid also demanded that deputy Knesset speaker Nissim Vaturi be removed for accusing anti-regime protesters of being a "branch" of Hamas.

Protesters have been taking to the streets regularly to demand early elections and a deal to release Israeli captives being held by Hamas in Gaza.

The protests turned violent on Monday as they marched toward Netanyahu's residence in occupied al-Quds.

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Netanyahu says US promised to lift restrictions of arms deliveries to Israel

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 June 2024 5:27 PM

Benjamin Netanyahu says the United States had promised him to remove all restrictions on weapons transfers to Israel in the coming days.

Netanyahu said on Tuesday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured him during a meeting last week that President Joe Biden's administration was working "day and night" to lift those restrictions.

"I certainly hope that's the case. It should be the case," he said in a statement.

"Give us the tools and we'll finish the job a lot faster," Netanyahu said, as the regime's brutal military campaign in Gaza is in its eighth month now.

Netanyahu and Blinken met in al-Quds on June 10.

Following Blinken's pledge, the Washington Post said in a report that two key Democrats in the US Congress have agreed to support a major arms sale to Israel that includes 50 F-15 fighter jets worth more than $18 billion.

The two representatives, it said, have signed off on the deal under heavy pressure from the Biden administration after the two lawmakers had for months held up the sale.

In a separate report, the Washington Post said last week that the Biden administration has approved and delivered on more than 100 arms sales to Israel since the regime started its offensive against Gaza on October 7.

The sales included thousands of precision-guided munitions, small-diameter bombs and other weapons.

Washington has long been the largest weapons supplier to its ally, Israel, followed by Germany.

Some Western countries, such as Italy, Canada and the Netherlands, have halted arms shipments to Israel this year after they came under pressure by human rights groups that they risk complicity in the regime's genocide in Gaza.

Israel's military forces have killed more than 37,400 people in the Gaza Strip since early October.

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Israelis stage new mass demonstrations against Prime Minister Netanyahu

By VOA News June 18, 2024

Thousands of Israelis staged a mass demonstration in Jerusalem Monday to protest Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the war in Gaza.

The demonstration began outside the Knesset, Israel's parliament, before making its way to Prime Minister Netanyahu's personal residence. The protesters demanded the government negotiate with Hamas for a return of the remaining hostages who have been held by the Palestinian militant group since its deadly raid on southern Israel last October 7, as well as early parliamentary elections.

Reuters says some of the protesters broke off from the larger crowd and tried to break through police barricades. Security forces managed to push the protesters back, eventually using a water cannon to disperse the crowd.

The protests came hours after Netanyahu disbanded his war cabinet, a decision expected after Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot, two centrist ex-generals, stepped down last week over disagreements with the prime minister over the direction of the war.

Gantz joined Netanyahu's unity government in October at the start of the war and demanded the formation of the war cabinet.

The White House said Monday that the dissolution was an "internal" and "domestic" measure by Israel's government, and the United States will continue to interact with Netanyahu.

At the State Department, spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters during a briefing that it is not for the U.S. to decide who should be in the government of Israel.

However, Miller added that Washington will publicly express disagreements on policies "that we think are unproductive, not only to the plight of the Palestinian people but also to Israel's security," when asked if the U.S. is concerned about far-right voices in Israel's decision making.

The U.S. had said it was worthwhile to have the war cabinet in place.

Meanwhile, a daytime, 11-hour "tactical pause" in Israeli military operations in parts of the southern Gaza Strip took effect Monday.

Israel said the pause in its offensive in southern Gaza would continue for the immediate future and allow humanitarian aid trucks to reach the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing, the main entry point for incoming aid. The trucks could then safely travel to a nearby highway to deliver desperately needed food and medical supplies to other parts of Gaza.

The "tactical pause" announced by the military applies to about 12 kilometers of road in the Rafah area but falls far short of a complete cease-fire in Gaza that the international community, including the United States, is pushing for Israel and Hamas to adopt. The proposed broader cease-fire would halt fighting throughout Gaza for six weeks and calls for the release of more hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinians jailed by Israel.

But there was no sign of a breakthrough in the stalled cease-fire talks.

The limited halt in fighting, if it holds, could help address some of the overwhelming needs of Palestinians that have surged even more in recent weeks with Israel's incursion into Rafah.

Israel said the route out of southern Gaza would increase the flow of aid to other parts of Gaza, including Khan Younis, the Muwasi makeshift tent camp, and central Gaza. Hard-hit northern Gaza, which was an early target in the war, now in its ninth month, is being served by goods entering from a crossing in the north.

The military said the pause Sunday, which began as Muslims in Gaza and elsewhere celebrated the Eid Al-Adha holiday, came after discussions with the United Nations and international aid agencies.

The flow of aid in southern Gaza declined just as the humanitarian need grew. More than 1 million Palestinians, many of whom had already been displaced, fled Rafah after the invasion, crowding into other parts of southern and central Gaza. Most now languish in ramshackle tent camps, using trenches as latrines, with open sewage in the streets.

The United Nations said the need for more aid in Gaza is critical. From May 6 until June 6, the U.N. received an average of 68 trucks of aid a day, according to figures from the U.N. humanitarian office. That was down from 168 a day in April and far below the 500 trucks a day that aid groups say are needed.

The new arrangement aims to reduce the need for coordinating deliveries by providing an uninterrupted 11-hour window each day for trucks to move in and out of the crossing.

But it was not immediately clear whether the army would provide security to protect the aid trucks as they moved along the highway.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, or OCHA, said it welcomed Israel's announcement and hoped the tactical pause will lead to "further concrete measures by Israel to address long standing issues preventing a meaningful humanitarian response in Gaza."

But the limited cessation in fighting was attacked by ultranationalists in Netanyahu's government who oppose a halt in the war. The military said fighting is not being paused in the rest of southern Gaza.

Hamas killed 1,200 people during its October 7 terror attack on Israel and took 250 hostages, Israeli authorities say. Health officials in the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry say more than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war, a death toll that includes both civilians and combatants.

State Department bureau chief Nike Ching and U.N. correspondent Margaret Besheer contributed to this report. Some material in this report came from Reuters and Agence France-Presse.

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Junta troops arrest hundreds following forced relocations in western Myanmar

About 10,000 residents from 12 villages were recently moved into urban areas of Sittwe in Rakhine state.

By RFA Burmese 2024.06.18 -- Junta troops over the last week have arrested and interrogated several hundred people who were recently forced to move into the state capital of western Rakhine state, several people told Radio Free Asia on Tuesday.

About 10,000 residents from 12 villages have relocated over the last week into urban areas of Sittwe ahead of anticipated attacks by the Arakan Army, an ethnic minority insurgent group that has been battling the military for control of territory.

Last week, RFA reported junta troops told residents of five rural villages to move into Sittwe by Saturday.

Residents from seven other rural villages have also been forcibly removed into the capital - and many are worried they'll be arrested at any time by suspicious military troops, several people who wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals said on Tuesday.

"The residents of Sittwe are living in fear," said one woman.

Junta forces arrested 10 people on Saturday during an inspection of Shwe Pyi Thar village in Sittwe, and about 200 locals from Sittwe's Mingan ward were forcibly taken from their homes on Sunday, another resident said.

Among them were civil servants and staff members of some international NGOs. Some of them were released on Monday and Tuesday, but most remain at the junta's Regional Command Headquarters in Sittwe, the resident said.

'Trapped in Sittwe'

Junta troops are also conducting inspections at monasteries where many of the rural transplants are staying, the resident said.

People are also staying at the homes of close relatives, a woman who recently relocated into Sittwe said.

"We are trapped in Sittwe," she said. "We had to leave our homes with empty hands, except for the clothes on our body."The AA ended a ceasefire in November that had been in place during the military's February 2021 coup d'etat. It now occupies Paletwa township in neighboring Chin state and nine townships in Rakhine state, including three townships that border Sittwe.

A battle between the AA and the junta for control of Sittwe has been anticipated for several months. Junta troops have been preparing for the defense of the city by deploying heavy weapons, warships and ground forces in surrounding villages, several residents said last week.

Currently, junta forces only control Sittwe and Maungdaw townships in Rakhine state - and a fight between junta troops and the Arakan Army for the administrative capital of Maungdaw could also take place soon.

RFA was unable to reach the junta's spokesperson for Rakhine state, Hla Thein, to ask for his response to the arrests and interrogations.

Translated by Aung Naing. Edited by Matt Reed.

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 June 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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High Commissioner for Human Rights Says Myanmar is Being Suffocated by an Illegitimate Military Regime, Speaks of Stories of Horrific War Tactics and Brutal Atrocity Crimes

UNOHCHR

18 June 2024

The Human Rights Council this morning held an interactive dialogue with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on his report on Myanmar, hearing that Myanmar was being suffocated by an illegitimate military regime, and of stories of horrific war tactics and brutal atrocity crimes.

Volker TArk, High Commissioner for Human Rights, said Myanmar was being suffocated by an illegitimate military regime. It was in agonising pain. This was a crisis, he said, emblematic of a decades-long legacy of military domination, the stifling of dissent, and division.

Right now, these very same dynamics were playing out in terrifying form with the Rohingya and Rakhine communities. There were stories of horrific war tactics, such as beheadings, midnight drone attacks, and the burning of homes as people slept, Mr. TArk recounted. People being shot at as they fled for their lives. The military had lost control over a considerable amount of territory. It was resorting to increasingly extreme measures: forced conscription; indiscriminate bombardment of towns and villages; and brutal atrocity crimes.

Since February 2021, at least 5,280 civilians, including 1,022 women and 667 children, had been killed at the hands of the military, Mr. TArk reported. At least 26,865 individuals had been arrested and 20,592 remained in detention. There were now three million people internally displaced by these conflicts. These and so many more of the cruel consequences of the military's continued denial of humanitarian access remained invisible and under-reported.

He also reported witnessing a profound sense of hope. There was a new generation of young people from all ethnic communities leading the struggle to create an inclusive vision for the future of Myanmar. The international community was witnessing a people's revolution against decades of oppression and violence. In some areas outside the military's control, new local governance structures had emerged, supported by ethnic armed groups and activists alike. They were providing food, shelter, education and healthcare for hundreds of thousands who were otherwise receiving little to no humanitarian support.

Mr. TArk said nobody should be forcibly returned to Myanmar at this time. There needed to be an urgent rethink of how the international community could respond collectively to this unmitigated crisis. It was time to go beyond the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' Five Point Consensus that had failed to stem the violence or restore democracy. The Association's efforts needed to be reenergised and backed by a consortium of influential States to develop a new roadmap that could restore the destiny of Myanmar to its people.

This needed to factor in the new realities of local governance emerging on the ground, which could provide building blocks towards a democratic future from the bottom up.

Myanmar's people needed to have a place at the table. This meant reaching out to the democracy movement and youth, involving them meaningfully in the resolution of this crisis. The new generation in Myanmar - particularly the women's leadership that had emerged - needed to be supported in a "visioning process" for the future of the country. With more attention, more investment, more political will and more action, this situation could be turned around for a better tomorrow for the people of Myanmar.

In the ensuing debate, many speakers, among other things, said they remained deeply disturbed by the frequent and credible reports of serious violations and abuses of human rights and international law in Myanmar and the deeply deteriorating humanitarian situation. They shared the grave concerns expressed in recent statements from the High Commissioner, the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, and the Special Rapporteur that detailed targeted attacks against civilians, including Rohingya, which had led people to flee to the Bangladesh border and hampered humanitarian access. Speakers condemned the repressive actions of the Myanmar military; all violence against civilians needed to cease.

States were called on to prevent or halt the flow of arms, military and dual-use materials to the Myanmar military. In the context of decreasing funding for the Joint Response Plan, the international community needed to keep investing in the wellbeing, safety, and dignity of Rohingya, and help realise their right to return to their homeland in Rakhine.

Some speakers said that only by upholding sovereign equality and non-involvement in internal affairs could the problems truly be solved, and human rights upheld. Repatriation was the only way out of the Rohingya crisis. Some speakers expressed concern at the ongoing politicisation of the Human Rights Council's mandate on Myanmar and the fact that the country concerned did not consent to the process.

Speaking in the interactive debate were Australia on behalf of a group of countries, European Union, Luxembourg on behalf of a group of countries, Pakistan on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Denmark on behalf of a group of countries, Kuwait, Ireland, Egypt, Japan, Iran, United Nations Children's Fund, Sierra Leone, TArkiye, Indonesia, Spain, France, Maldives, Switzerland, China, United States, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Russian Federation, Malta, Belarus, Cyprus, Malaysia, Georgia, United Kingdom, Austria, Ghana, Venezuela, Gambia, India, Malawi, Thailand, Viet Nam and Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Also speaking were Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development, CIVICUS - World Alliance for Citizen Participation, Centre pour les Droits Civils et Politiques - Centre CCPR, Association Ma'onah for Human Rights and Immigration, Lawyers' Rights Watch Canada, Human Rights Watch, Association caritative Atudiante pour la jeunesse and Legal Action Worldwide.

The webcast of the Human Rights Council meetings can be found here All meeting summaries can be found here. Documents and reports related to the Human Rights Council's fifty-sixth regular session can be found here.

The Council will reconvene at 3 p.m. this afternoon, 18 June. It will next hold an enhanced interactive dialogue on the report of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan, before commencing an interactive dialogue on the oral update of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for the Sudan.

Report

The Council has before it the report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation of human rights of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar A/HRC/56/23

Presentation of Report by the High Commissioner for Human Rights

VOLKER TARK, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, said Myanmar was being suffocated by an illegitimate military regime. It was in agonising pain. The disintegration of human rights continued at breakneck speed. This was a crisis emblematic of a decades-long legacy of military domination, the stifling of dissent, and division.

Right now, these very same dynamics were playing out in terrifying form with the Rohingya and Rakhine communities. There were stories of horrific war tactics, such as beheadings. Midnight drone attacks. The burning of homes as people slept. People being shot at as they fled for their lives. The military had lost control over a considerable amount of territory. It was resorting to increasingly extreme measures: forced conscription; indiscriminate bombardment of towns and villages; and brutal atrocity crimes.

Mr. TArk said he had just returned from a visit to south-east Asia, where he heard from Myanmar civil society on the spiralling regional impacts of the crisis and the urgent need for leadership and influence to halt this catastrophe. The Myanmar military continued to gain access to foreign currency and weapons it needed to sustain its campaign of terror, while international financial support for the people of Myanmar was meagre at best.

He also reported witnessing a profound sense of hope. There was a new generation of young people from all ethnic communities leading the struggle to create an inclusive vision for the future of Myanmar. Mr. TArk said he was moved by their solidarity and shared hopes. Young people had strong expectations of the international community. They sought for the extent of Myanmar's suffering to be genuinely acknowledged and given the attention it deserved. They hoped that funding would be made available to those on the ground to deliver humanitarian assistance and services directly to communities throughout the country. They had risked their lives and livelihoods to help communities in need and resist the repression by the military. And with them, a future was possible.

The High Commissioner said the international community was witnessing a people's revolution against decades of oppression and violence. In some areas outside the military's control, new local governance structures had emerged, supported by ethnic armed groups and activists alike. They were providing food, shelter, education and healthcare for hundreds of thousands who were otherwise receiving little to no humanitarian support. They were delivering critically needed protection services in the complete absence of a functioning public system. The Karenni Interim Executive Council in Kayah State, for example, had created a local governance system, where seven members had been elected by the people to respond to the community's needs. Mr. TArk called on all anti-military armed groups to ensure the protection of civilians, defectors and persons who surrendered at all times.

The people of Myanmar needed to be spared more despair, more suffering, more fear. Armed conflicts continued to rage brutally across the country, taking an increasingly grim toll on the lives of civilians. The High Commissioner's Office was investigating several reported attacks against civilians in Rakhine state and Sagaing over recent days with large numbers of civilians allegedly killed in airstrikes, naval artillery barrages and shootings.

Mr. TArk said he was very concerned about the situation in Maungdaw. The Arakan Army this weekend gave all remaining residents - including a large Rohingya population - a warning to evacuate. But Rohingya had no options. There was nowhere to flee. Following a similar pattern in Buthidaung, where Rohingya were ordered to flee, and then the town burned, it seemed that the international community was - yet again -- about to bear witness to displacement, destruction and abuses. The military also reportedly ordered evacuation of ethnic Rakhine villages around Sittwe, where they had been conducting mass arrests in recent days.

In another instance, the village of Byaing Phyu was reportedly emptied of its several hundred residents, as the military tried to identify men of fighting age who sympathised with their armed opponent, the Arakan Army. Men were separated from women. Dozens of men were allegedly tortured, shot and killed. Multiple reports alleged that at least five women were also raped and killed in the incident. Their village was burned. Hundreds of men taken away were now missing.

In a cynical move, the military had pressured and threatened young Rohingya men to join their ranks. Some reports had indicated thousands of Rohingya youth had been conscripted into the very same forces that displaced hundreds of thousands of their community in 2016 and 2017.

In response, the Arakan Army had exhorted Rohingya to fight with them against the military. They had targeted their communities by forcibly displacing residents. On multiple occasions, they had detained or killed men of fighting age who they suspected of taking up arms against them. These tactics had brought back the shocking images and memories from 2017 of systematic terrorisation, persecution and forced displacement of populations. Today, sections of Maungdaw and Buthidaung had been alternately burned. Ethnic Rakhine houses and neighbourhoods were set alight, followed days later by the burning of Rohingya villages. Tens of thousands of civilians from these communities had been forced to flee, among them entire Rohingya communities with no guarantees of finding safe haven. Over one million Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh were still living in limbo in dire conditions, with no prospect for durable solutions.

All this in the face of binding provisional measures ordered by the International Court of Justice for the protection of Rohingya while it examined the case alleging genocide brought before it by Gambia and other Member States. Accountability, including in proceedings currently pending before the International Criminal Court, was absolutely critical. The failures to ensure accountability in Myanmar's past transition were now allowing history to repeat itself and were haunting the present and the future. The situation in Rakhine state was - tragically - just one example of how this coup, which had resulted in three years of conflict, had brought pain and suffering to an entire country.

The attacks by the military had been, and continued to be, indiscriminate. Since February 2021, at least 5,280 civilians, including 1,022 women and 667 children, had been killed at the hands of the military. At least 26,865 individuals had been arrested and 20,592 remained in detention. There were now three million people internally displaced by these conflicts, the vast majority still without proper shelter, access to food or water, essential medicines or healthcare. These and so many more of the cruel consequences of the military's continued denial of humanitarian access remained invisible and under-reported.

Mr. TArk said the violence needed to end. The attacks against civilians, the forced conscription and the denial of humanitarian aid needed to end. Mr. TArk urged all parties to prevent the recurrence of the atrocity crimes committed against the Rohingya in 2016 and 2017. He also called on countries in the region to ensure international protection, and provision of adequate shelter, support and long-term access to essential services to people fleeing the violence and persecution. Special provisions needed to be made for human rights defenders, who were particularly exposed and often faced transnational threats and refoulement.

Mr. TArk said nobody should be forcibly returned to Myanmar at this time. There needed to be an urgent rethink of how the international community could respond collectively to this unmitigated crisis. It was time to go beyond the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' Five Point Consensus that had failed to stem the violence or restore democracy. The Association's efforts needed to be reenergised and backed by a consortium of influential States to develop a new roadmap that could restore the destiny of Myanmar to its people. This needed to factor in the new realities of local governance emerging on the ground, which could provide building blocks towards a democratic future from the bottom up.

Myanmar's people needed to have a place at the table. This meant reaching out to the democracy movement and youth, involving them meaningfully in the resolution of this crisis. The new generation in Myanmar - particularly the women's leadership that had emerged - needed to be supported in a "visioning process" for the future of the country. With more attention, more investment, more political will and more action, this situation could be turned around for a better tomorrow for the people of Myanmar.

Discussion

In the discussion, many speakers, among other things, said they remained deeply disturbed by the frequent and credible reports of serious violations and abuses of human rights and international law in Myanmar and the deeply deteriorating humanitarian situation. They shared the grave concerns expressed in recent statements from the High Commissioner, the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar and the Special Rapporteur that detailed targeted attacks against civilians, including Rohingya, which had led people to flee to the Bangladesh border and hampered humanitarian access. Speakers condemned the repressive actions of the Myanmar military; all violence against civilians must cease.

Conflict continued to escalate across Myanmar, causing suffering across the country, including through military attacks causing civilian fatalities; aerial attacks and shelling of homes, schools, places of worship and hospitals; and mass killings, persecution, torture and sexual and gender-based violence. The forced and prolonged recruitment of conscripts, including forced recruitment of children, exacerbated the civil war and disrupted society at every level, while fuelling identity-based violence. A record 1.3 million people had been displaced, with many of them being children, facing increasing human rights violations.

Many speakers said they were deeply concerned at the resumption of hostilities in Rakhine state and at the recent reports of violence, forced displacement and property destruction against the Rohingya Muslims in Buthidaung township in Rakhine. In Rakhine state, the reported forced recruitment of Rohingya was further dividing communities, and bringing to the surface deep-seated ethnic tensions and mistrust, making it increasingly dangerous for all civilians. Since February, Myanmar security forces had press ganged as many as 5,000 Rohingya men and boys from across Rakhine. Thus, Rohingya who had been denied citizenship and basic freedoms under the military's system of apartheid were being forced unlawfully to fight on the junta's behalf. Grave concern was expressed at the forced recruitment and use of Rohingya as a human shield by the warring parties in Rakhine. It was vital to immediately put an end to this illegal conscription and allow Rohingya already conscripted to return home.

Speakers underscored the International Court of Justice's provisional measures order from 23 January 2020 and the urgent need for compliance with it. Without accountability, there could be no lasting peace. Some speakers welcomed the appointment of the Special Envoy of the United Nations Secretary-General on Myanmar, Julie Bishop. Bangladesh was commended for hosting the Rohingya refugees, as well as Gambia for its efforts to hold the perpetrators accountable at the International Criminal Court of Justice. Some speakers reiterated their willingness to work with Gambia and like-minded countries to bring justice to the Rohingya.

Some speakers said the Myanmar issue was very complex. Only by upholding sovereign equality and non-involvement in internal affairs could the problems truly be solved, and human rights upheld. Repatriation was the only way out of the Rohingya crisis. Some speakers expressed concern at the ongoing politicisation of the Human Rights Council's mandate on Myanmar and the fact that the country concerned did not consent to the process. Some information from the Myanmar Government had not been included in the report, a speaker said, meaning the report provided a distorted reality of the situation on the ground.

Many speakers urged all conflicting parties to protect the Rohingya Muslims and ensure their safety and security. They called for an immediate end to all violations and abuses against civilians, the provision of full and unhindered humanitarian access, the release of all political prisoners, and an inclusive dialogue with meaningful participation of all stakeholders. All parties, in particular the Myanmar military, needed to allow complete, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all persons in need and ensure the protection of civilians.

States were called on to prevent or halt the flow of arms, military and dual-use materials to the Myanmar military. In the context of decreasing funding in Joint Response Plan, the international community needed to keep investing in the wellbeing, safety, and dignity of Rohingya, and help realise their right to return to their homeland in Rakhine. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights needed to closely monitor the situation in Rakhine and play an active role in pursuing a durable solution to the crisis, including through contributing to accountability processes.

Many speakers reiterated their resolute support for the people of Myanmar. Ensuring justice and accountability for all human rights violations and abuses, committed by any actor, was crucial, and in this regard, the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar was vital. Speakers reiterated their support for this important mechanism. Among questions, speakers asked the High Commissioner to provide more information on the unique needs of women and girls who were internally displaced and what could be done to strengthen their protection? How instrumental was the flow of dual-use goods and jet fuel to committing human rights violations and abuses? What else could be done to ensure accountability of perpetrators of grave violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, which, despite all the processes initiated at the international level, was still being committed?

Concluding Remarks by the High Commissioner

VOLKER TARK, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, in concluding remarks, said the response to the crisis was cross-regional. The message to the military in Myanmar was that the world was watching and urgent action needed to be taken. This was an issue that had regional and global implications. The violence had affected a large percentage of Myanmar's townships. There were over 18 million people in need of urgent humanitarian assistance and 25 million living below the poverty line. There were over a million refugees being hosted in Bangladesh, and hundreds of thousands in other neighbouring countries. This was a crisis that had international implications.

Many women and girls had been killed by the military since the start of the coup. Women had been sentenced to death. Half of the internally displaced population were women and girls. They had limited access to shelter and food. The humanitarian response needed to be stepped up and there needed to be more creativity in how it was delivered. It needed to avoid all military channels. The non-military channels needed to be increased massively. The support of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations needed to be built up and United Nations support needed to be strengthened. Neither the Arakan Army nor the military would protect the Rohingya. All human rights violations needed to be properly documented. The impact of airstrikes on the civilian population was horrendous. Airstrikes had claimed at least 362 civilians since last August.

There were governance structures at the local level providing essential services. There needed to be creative models developed to support these structures. There were capacities at the local level to forge a new Myanmar society. Women's leadership was essential in this regard.

The International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court processes were essential for ensuring accountability. Mr. TArk congratulated Gambia for pursuing these processes. He also called for support for the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar. The Security Council needed to broaden its mandate on the situation in Myanmar.

More efforts needed to be devoted to ensuring that hate speech and disinformation on the issue was not prevalent on social media. It was possible to reconstruct community cohesion. Mr. TArk said that he had in his most recent visit to the region been able to visit with refugees from all affected groups; this had not been possible in the past. There needed to be a stepping up of international support to respond to this deeply worrying situation in the country.

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Northern Fleet ships leave port of Havana, Republic of Cuba

17.06.2024

The Northern Fleet's crew, led by the frigate Admiral Gorshkov, is currently engaged in long-range missions in the Atlantic Ocean.

During their stay at the port, the crews took part in protocol, observance, and commemoration events, including those dedicated to Russia Day. A significant development for Northern Fleet military personnel was the visit of the frigate Admiral Gorshkov and the nuclear-powered missile submarine Kazan by President of the Republic of Cuba Miguel DAaz-Canel.

In addition, as part of a call by a detachment of ships of the Northern Fleet to the port of Havana, the Northern Fleet servicemen took part in a number of commemorations: tributes honoured the leader of the Cuban liberation movement Jose MartA and Soviet internationalist soldiers.

After being withdrawn from the territorial waters of the Republic of Cuba, the detachment of ships will continue to carry out tasks in accordance with the long-distance approach plan.

Information Activities Office of the Northern region (Severomorsk)

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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2024/06/18

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1.Dateis

6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Monday to Tuesday, Jun. 17-18

2.PLA activitiesis

20 PLA aircraft and 7 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 12 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and 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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Taiwan president faces renewed pressure over cross-strait relations

By William Yang June 18, 2024

China initiated a new wave of influence campaigns against Taiwan over the past few days, as its top official overseeing Taiwan affairs reiterated Beijing's "resolve and ability to shatter" the island's attempt to seek independence while promising to welcome more Taiwanese people to participate in cross-strait exchanges.

During his keynote address at the 16th Straits Forum in the southern coastal city of Xiamen on June 14, China's No.4 official, Wang Huning, said, "Separatists seeking Taiwan independence," an indirect reference to the island's ruling Democratic Progressive Party, undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and harm the interests and well-being of Taiwanese people.

"Their actions will push Taiwan to the brink of war and bring disaster to people on the island," he said.

While he renewed warnings directed at Taiwan's new government, which only took office last month, Wang said Beijing would welcome more Taiwanese people taking part in cross-strait exchanges.

Some analysts say Wang's comments reflect Beijing's long-standing practice of using a "carrot and stick" strategy to influence Taiwan. "What's more interesting is that Beijing seems to be turning Fujian into a testing ground for its favorable policies toward Taiwan," Chen Fang-Yu, a political scientist at Soochow University in Taiwan, told VOA by phone.

Reaching out to investors, students

Because of the rising tension between Beijing and Taipei since Taiwan President Lai Ching-te took office on May 20, Chen said Beijing must limit the scope of its favorable policies toward Taiwan and use it to signal that it's still open to exchange with Taiwan.

"Since Beijing adopted a tough approach to handle cross-strait relations after the Democratic Progressive Party came to power in 2016, they can no longer roll out broad-based policies that are favorable to Taiwan, and instead, they have to limit the scope of the benefits they offer to Taiwan," he said.

In recent months, Beijing has rolled out plans to enhance access to China for Taiwanese investors and encourage Taiwan residents to study, work and live in Fujian while resuming travel from the coastal Chinese province to Taiwan's outlying Matsu Islands.

In addition to the influence campaign from China, Taiwan's main opposition party, the China-friendly Kuomintang (KMT), has also renewed its pledge to promote peace across the Taiwan Strait while accusing the ruling DPP, which highlights Taiwan's sovereignty, of "setting fire" to cross-strait relations.

Sean Lien, deputy chairperson of the KMT, said his party hopes to make Taiwanese people realize that it is "the party genuinely making an effort to ensure Taiwan's safety and democracy" through cross-strait platforms like the Straits Forum.

"It is absurd that the ones setting fire [to cross-strait relations] are sometimes considered heroes, while those putting out the fires are derided," he said during an interview with Chinese media outlets.

Party of peace

Some experts say Lien's comments reflect the KMT's ongoing attempt to present itself as the political party that can conduct peaceful exchanges with China.

"The KMT is doubling down on the framing that they are the only one who can try to calm Beijing down and Taiwan President Lai Ching-te is the person messing up cross-strait relations," Lev Nachman, a political scientist at National Chengchi University in Taiwan, told VOA by phone.

While the KMT has long claimed that the DPP could lead Taiwan to war with China, Chen at Soochow University said this narrative has become more effective at influencing some Taiwanese people's views on the ruling party and China.

"Since the Ukraine war has increased some Taiwanese people's fears towards a potential Chinese invasion, the KMT's claim that they are the only political party that can maintain peace across the Taiwan Strait may appeal to some Taiwanese people who are concerned about a potential war with China," he told VOA.

Despite Beijing's and the KMT's efforts to portray his government as "separatist forces" that will lead Taiwan into a war, Lai maintained his tough tone on China's threats toward Taiwan, warning Sunday that Beijing views the annexation of Taiwan as its great national cause.

"The biggest challenge is to face the powerful rise of China, [which is] destroying the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and regards Taiwan's annexation and the elimination of the Republic of China as the great rejuvenating cause of its people," he said at an event commemorating the 100th anniversary of a military academy in Kaohsiung.

Despite his attempt to reassure the Taiwanese people that he is committed to maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, Nachman said Lai's comments failed to lower Beijing's skepticism.

"Beijing views Lai's inauguration speech as overly provocative and there is this intrinsic distrust of him that even if he reiterates his commitment to maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait, the Chinese government doesn't seem to buy his message," he told VOA.

Creating 'chaos'

Chen said since the Lai administration hasn't found an effective way to respond to the pressure imposed by Beijing and the KMT, it has allowed Beijing's attempt to create chaos in Taiwan and increase the public's distrust in the new government to be somewhat effective.

"The goal of Beijing's influence campaign against Taiwan is to create chaos and increase distrust in the government and there will always be individuals in Taiwan willing to help facilitate Beijing's campaign," he told VOA.

But as the United States prepares to hold its presidential election in November, some experts say it's unlikely that Beijing and Taipei will do anything to drastically change the dynamics across the Taiwan Strait.

"The dynamic across the Taiwan Strait is going to be as quiet as it possibly can be, [because] there is a lot of uncertainty over who will be the next U.S. president," Rorry Daniels, managing director of the Asia Society Policy Institute, told VOA by phone.

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Hong Kongers' voices more influential in UK elections

By Lyndon Lee June 18, 2024

General elections in the United Kingdom will be held on July 4, and thousands of Hong Kongers who are eligible to vote through the British National (Overseas) program, or BNO visa, are expected to make their voices heard.

The program was launched in January 2021 in response to a harsh Chinese security law imposed on Hong Kong seven months earlier. Since then, more than 150,000 Hong Kongers have received visas. The policy allows them to build new lives in the U.K. and gives them the right to vote.

In towns such as Sutton and Wokingham, where many Hong Kongers live, the influence of Hong Kong society is obvious as the election approaches. Candidates seeking to secure their votes are addressing their concerns and needs.

Lucy Demery, a Conservative Party parliamentary candidate for Wokingham, lived in Hong Kong for 17 years and once joined peaceful protests against the strict rule of the Chinese Communist Party.

She told VOA that she wants to make sure that she is "the biggest, strongest advocate for the Hong Kong community here."

"It's a priority of mine to make sure that all Hong Kongers in Wokingham feel safe and secure and integrated into the community here. ... It's really a Conservative government that initiated the BNO settlement scheme, which I'm very proud of," she said.

In Sutton, parliamentary candidates from all parties met with more than 70 BNO Hong Kongers and journalists on Saturday. The event was organized by local community groups Sutton Hong Kongers, HK Watch, and Vote for Hong Kong 2024.

The candidates expressed support for integration and providing a safe environment for the Hong Kong people. They also took a firm stance on international issues involving China, emphasizing the importance of human rights and democracy.

Hersh Thaker, a Labour Party candidate for Carshalton and Wallington, said, "This is going to be one of the most remarkable migration stories in British history when you look back at the number of people that have come over from Hong Kong, but actually the contribution that has been made to this country as a result of this has been extraordinary."

But not all Hong Kongers are eager to participate in the political process.

Richard Choi, Sutton Hong Kongers' organizer, told VOA, "It's important for Hong Kongers to feel safe. They are too scared to get involved in politics. They are afraid of speaking out. It's hard to get feedback from them. Even though their email address, postcode, and data are not required, people still don't want to get involved. Article 23 [of Hong Kong's national security law] and the spy incident make it even worse."

Last month, the U.K. prosecuted three people under the country's National Security Act of 2023 for allegedly assisting Hong Kong intelligence agencies to conduct foreign interference activities in the U.K. According to the prosecution, Chung Biu Yuen, the executive manager of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London, was the suspected mastermind of the activities.

Article 23 of Hong Kong's national security law has also been used against Hong Kongers in the U.K. The Hong Kong passports of activists Simon Cheng and Nathan Law, who are in exile in the U.K., have been revoked, and their families in Hong Kong have been harassed.

Demery said the U.K.'s strengthened national security law is crucial in protecting the safety of Hong Kong people.

"It was also a Conservative government which strengthened our national security laws in the U.K., which allows us now to be cracking down on some transnational oppression from Hong Kong and China on our territory," she said.

Bobby Dean, the Liberal Democrats candidate for Carshalton and Wallington, trained democracy activists in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. He expressed concerns about China's threat to the Hong Kong community in the U.K. and called on the government to take a tough stance.

"In the West, for too long, [we] have been too lenient and too concerned about how bad state actors like Russia and China might react to the language and rhetoric that we use, and so, we really soften that," he said. "China and Russia are looking at the hard calculation, not the tone of what we say."

During the event, some Hong Kongers expressed their concerns about higher tuition fees for those who haven't lived in the U.K. for three years. One BNO passport holder said, "People misunderstand that Hong Kong people are rich. But many of us cannot afford A50,000 [$63,000] a year in tuition fees for our children because we are still classified as internationals."

Tom Drummond, the Conservative Party candidate for Sutton and Cheam, said he would help solve the problem of expensive tuition fees.

"We need to rebuild trust. We are all standing to make your lives better. I will be your voice in Westminster instead of your voice in Sutton. But I think it's important to realize that we're standing, all of us. And whoever's elected, I've got no doubt, they're going into it for the right reasons," he said.

Luke Taylor, the Liberal Democrats candidate for Sutton and Cheam, said, "I think I would give you the reassurance that as Liberal Democrats, we have a history of standing on, as a party, the right side of controversial issues. We are not afraid to be contrary to the established view."

Adrianna Zhang contributed to this report.

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'Anticlimactic' peace conference ends with key regional powers failing to sign communique

Global Times

By Xu Keyue Published: Jun 17, 2024 10:26 PM

The two-day peace conference held in Switzerland on the Ukraine crisis marked by the absence of Russia came to an anticlimactic close on Sunday, as key regional powers including Brazil, India, South Africa and Saudi Arabia didn't sign up to a joint communique issued at the end of the gathering.

The joint communique was vague, touching on topics such as nuclear weapons, food security and the release of prisoners of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, but left key questions on how and when to end the conflict as well as the reconstruction of Ukraine.

The peace conference ended without any significant progress. US Vice President Kamala Harris who represented the US at the meeting also returned home ahead of schedule, followed by French President Emmanuel Macron and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who also skipped the meeting on Sunday, according to media reports.

Observers pointed out that many Western attendees are just putting on a show to demonstrate "political correctness," align with their domestic political positions, and support activities on Ukraine to gain support and votes.

Also, for this conference, Ukraine and the US-led Western clique have made great efforts to woo Global South nations, but their scheme suffered a setback.

According to multiple media outlets, major regional countries including Brazil, India, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, all of which are members of BRICS or key powers in the Global South, did not sign the communique.

Analyzing the factors behind why those Global South major countries refused to sign the communique, Zhang Hong, an associate research fellow at the Institute of Russian, Eastern European and Central Asian Studies of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, described the document as "unbalanced" as it only reflects Ukraine's claims.

Signing such a communique may harm their relationship with Russia, Zhang told the Global Times on Monday. Also, they are concerned that endorsing Ukraine unilaterally could have a negative impact on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, according to Zhang. If more countries take sides, it could escalate the conflict, which would go against their goal of facilitating peace talks, the expert explained.

Faced with such a situation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who had previously criticized China at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, also changed his tune.

"I believe that China could help us. That is why I would very much like certain proposals that the Chinese side has to be in our dialogue," the Ukrainian president said at a press conference in Switzerland on Sunday. He also stressed that "Ukraine has never said that China is our enemy."

Asked to comment on the peace conference communique, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian on Monday said that China's position on the Ukraine crisis is consistent and clear. He noted that China did not attend the peace conference and will not comment on the joint communique of the meeting.

China has always been a responsible major power, maintaining a balanced and rational position on the Ukraine crisis, which should be respected and cherished by Ukraine and the international community, Zhang said, who believes Zelensky's statement this time is a correction of his previous remarks on China.

"This conference has made him realize the important role China plays in advocating for peace talks in the Russia-Ukraine conflict," Zhang said.

Another point from the joint communique that caught public attention was the removal from the document of a previous reference to the Russian "aggression" and instead using the word "war."

This is a sign that Ukraine and the US-led Western camp were forced to compromise as the conference expanded from the West to many Global South countries, resulting in more divided views on the conflict and an unwillingness to take sides, observers said.

Countries including Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Kenya noted Russia's absence as a hurdle, the Guardian reported on Sunday.

"After this summit, the calls for Russia to join such a gathering for peace talks in the future will only grow stronger," Zhang said.

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Press release on the termination of the Russian Federation's participation in the dispute before the ICAO Council with Australia and the Netherlands concerning the crash of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 (Boeing 777-200)

17 June 2024 17:35

1147-17-06-2024

In March 2022, Australia and the Kingdom of the Netherlands filed a case against the Russian Federation in the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council concerning the 2014 crash of Malaysian Airlines flight MH17. They allege that Russia violated Article 3 bis of the 1944 Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation, which prohibits the use of weapons against civil aircraft in flight.

Despite Russia's objections, in March 2023 the ICAO Council asserted its competence to consider the dispute. This decision granted the Council powers similar to those of a criminal court or investigative body, which are not explicitly outlined in Article 84 of the Chicago Convention. Russia disagrees with this decision and has never recognised the Council's authority in this matter. Nonetheless, Russia continued to participate in the proceedings, hoping to use of the ICAO platform for a professional dialogue regarding the plane crash.

To facilitate this dialogue, Russia has repeatedly proposed that the ICAO Council conduct a comprehensive, thorough, and independent international investigation into the crash of flight MH17, as mandated by UN Security Council Resolution 2166 (2014) and the ICAO dispute resolution rules. However, the ICAO Council declined to initiate such an investigation. Furthermore, the previous technical investigation by the Dutch Safety Board (DSB) and the criminal investigation by the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) do not meet these criteria.

Russia was not given the opportunity to fully participate in the DSB technical investigation, and its final conclusions contain numerous inaccuracies and inconsistencies. As for the JIT (comprising Australia, Belgium, Malaysia, the Netherlands, and Ukraine), it included states that were not only directly implicated in the incident but also politically opposed to Russia. Russia was not invited to participate in this Group, and its request to include Russian representatives in the JIT was rejected by the Group's leader in 2015 on questionable grounds. Meanwhile, Australia and the Netherlands are currently presenting the outcomes of these investigations to the Council as purported evidence of Russia's culpability.

Since the ICAO Council declined to conduct an independent investigation into the incident under its auspices, it now solely relies on the results of a biased investigation provided by one of the parties involved in the proceedings.

Furthermore, the dispute resolution mechanism of the ICAO Council was originally designed without sufficient independence to ensure impartiality. Comprising 36 member states of ICAO, its decisions are influenced by directives from their respective governments.

To ensure a fair and unbiased review, we have proposed that the 12 Council member states, excluding Australia, which publicly attributed responsibility to Russia early on, commit to abstaining from voting on the merits of the case. These twelve states had already aligned with The Hague and Canberra's position well before considering Russia's arguments. Therefore, the dispute resolution procedure lacked any meaning: why present evidence and arguments if these 12 representatives in the Council had already predetermined their vote based on their government's political stance blaming Russia?

However, using their majority in the Council, these countries, along with their allies and dependent states, have ensured that they can act as judges in their own case. This situation has been endorsed, including by the President of the ICAO Council, Salvatore Sciacchitano (Italy), and the Organisation's Secretariat under Western control.

Under the influence of the collective West and their satellites, the ICAO Council disregarded the International Court of Justice's ruling of January 31, 2024, in the case of Ukraine v. Russia, which dismissed claims holding Russia accountable for the MH17 flight tragedy.

The Council's decision to forego an investigation, dismiss challenges against the involved member states, and disregard the ruling of the United Nations' principal judicial body go against basic standards of procedural objectivity.

In these conditions, an impartial establishment of facts, let alone a fair decision, become impossible. The ICAO Council does not serve as a credible venue for uncovering the truth. Continuing our participation in the show being staged there seems futile.

For over two years, Russia presented the ICAO with comprehensive and compelling factual and legal evidence indicating that our country was not involved in the air crash. This evidence has been available to all member states of the Council. All 193 ICAO member states can now review it and draw their own conclusions. Russia has made its case clear.

It is important to acknowledge that there are voices of reason on the Council who recognise the importance of a thorough investigation. However, they constitute a minority, and those countries advocating for an objective assessment may not have their voices heard in the final decision-making process. We appreciate their steadfast and unbiased stance.

Unlike the biased majority on the Council, Russia continues to uphold UN Security Council Resolution 2166 (2014) and is committed to uncovering the true causes of the MH17 plane crash, while also remaining open to related efforts. As for the ICAO Council, let the Western countries and their satellites handle this matter among themselves now. We are ending our participation in this charade. Russia does not acknowledge the Council's authority to entertain the allegations from Australia and the Netherlands, nor any decisions stemming from them.

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Comment by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the Ukraine conference in Switzerland

17 June 2024 19:25

1148-17-06-2024

The other day, Burgenstock, Switzerland, hosted the so-called Ukraine peace summit. Kiev and Western capitals did their best to present it as a universal event. However, this wishful thinking has ended in a complete fiasco. Contrary to the attempts of Zelensky and his Anglo-Saxon masters, almost half of the 160 invited guests refused to engage in political tourism. A striving to involve as many countries of the Global South as possible has failed. Despite blackmail, open threats and confidence tricks, many of them displayed fortitude, did not yield to tough pressure and ignored insistent persuasion to visit the Swiss Alps.

The failure of the Swiss "gathering" was quite predictable. This was bound to happen because the Nazi Kiev regime and its Western masters did not intend to search for ways of resolving the Ukraine crisis by peaceful means from the very beginning. They are not interested in peace in Ukraine, they need further confrontation, escalation and expanded hostilities to implement their unrealisable dream of inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia. According to well-informed sources, Andrey Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, discussed with foreign delegations in Burgenstock additional weapons deliveries for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The Anglo-Saxons and their Ukrainian puppets are trying to camouflage their aggressive intentions by using the completely bankrupt "Zelensky formula." Its authors in the United States and on Bankovaya Street are trying to portray it as the only foundation for a peace settlement. They are insistently imposing it on the international community, while disregarding the opinion of other parties and their desire to make their own contribution to resolving the crisis. The same happened in Switzerland.

Cynical manipulations with seemingly nice-sounding (but absolutely inappropriate for the Burgenstock meeting) provisions of the "Zelensky formula," including nuclear security, for obtaining support from Asian, African and Latin American countries, failed to help the organisers of the "summit." This substandard ploy and open quackery highlight the real intentions of the West and the pro-Bandera regime in Kiev once again.

The lack of consensus among participants also confirms the zero result of the Alpine "get-together." Far from all delegates agreed to support the openly anti-Russia concluding communique. At first, 12 delegations refused to sign it, and later their number reached 14, including India, Indonesia, Jordan, Iraq, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, the Republic of South Africa and other influential states. Quite possibly, the number of these countries will increase.

It has become completely obvious that the Global Majority rejects the options of Kiev and the West for resolving the Ukraine crisis. It perceives their far from peaceful essence and does not want to be guided by the United States and its satellites.

We are confident that the world will continue to realise more clearly that the peace initiative, voiced by President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin in his June 14 remarks at the Russian Foreign Ministry, shows a real way towards a sustainable peace settlement.

Its key elements include the withdrawal of Ukrainian military units from the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions; the neutral, non-aligned and non-nuclear status of Ukraine, as well as its demilitarisation and denazification; ensuring in full measure the rights, freedoms and interests of Russian-speaking citizens in Ukraine. New territorial realities should be formalised, including the status of Crimea, Sevastopol, the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions as the Russian Federation's constituent entities (whose population during referendums took advantage of the right of nations to self-determination, formalised in the UN Charter, against the background of the war unleashed by Kiev against them.

The West and Kiev should stop their eyewash and trickery that aim to channel the discussion along false lines by misleading the international public and tampering with and misplacing the cause and effect of the Ukraine crisis. They have to understand that there is no reasonable alternative to the Russian President's peace plan. The sooner they comprehend this, the faster the real process of resolving the conflict and ending hostilities will begin. Otherwise, the terms for launching talks will be much worse for them.

The Russian President's statement that Moscow comprehends its responsibility for global stability and reaffirms its readiness to negotiate with all countries comes as a highly important signal in this context. However, this should be a serious and substantive discussion of the entire range of global security issues, rather than a simulated peace process catering to someone's mercenary will and interests.

Events similar to the Burgenstock "gathering" cannot create favourable conditions for truly serious dialogue to attain a truly comprehensive, sustainable and equitable peace; nor can they serve as a platform for such dialogue.

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Ukrainian Drones Struck Russian Oil Facility, Igniting Major Fire, Source Tells RFE/RL

By RFE/RL's Russian Service and Current Time June 18, 2024

Ukraine's main security and counterintelligence agency was behind an overnight drone attack that ignited a major fire at an oil depot in the southern Russian city of Azov, a reliable source in the Ukrainian security forces told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service on June 18.

The source said a special operation by the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) using multiple drones had ignited powerful fires at the Rostov region facility, which houses oil depots and fuel terminals.

Kyiv generally avoids commenting on such incidents but has increasingly resorted to targeting Russian energy infrastructure, mainly oil installations, with its own drone strikes in order to degrade the Russian military's fuel reserves to beat back a 2-year-old full-scale invasion.

The Ukrainian security source said the SBU would continue efforts to chisel away at economic potential that provides resources that help Russia wage war on Ukraine.

Rostov Governor Vasily Golubev said there were no casualties from the drone attacks that ignited the Azov fire.

He also quoted experts as saying there was "no risk of the fire spreading to other facilities, or threats to residents."

The Russian Emergency Situations Ministry posted video of the blaze and said a 5,000-cubic-meter fuel tank had caught fire.

It said more than 70 firefighters with equipment, including a fire train, were trying to extinguish the fire.

Russian officials have blamed Ukrainian drones for multiple attacks on oil installations in recent weeks near the border with Ukraine, in Belgorod and Novoshakhtinsk.

Ukraine has been subjected to near-constant Russian drone and missile strikes on its civilian and energy infrastructure since the start of the full-scale invasion by Russia two years ago.

The Russian air attacks have caused numerous casualties among civilians and huge material damage across the country, including the capital, Kyiv.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-fire-oil-depot- azov-drone-attack/32997491.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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Italy Might Supply Ukraine With Storm Shadow Missiles - Reports

Sputnik News

20240618

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Italy might send Storm Shadow long-range missiles to Ukraine as part of the ninth military aid package, which is currently being prepared, Italian newspaper Il Fatto Quotidiano reported on Tuesday.

Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto intends to present the weapons that are to be included in the upcoming aid package during a meeting of the Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic by the end of June, sources told the newspaper. The package will reportedly involve not only the Samp-T air defense system, but also a number of Storm Shadows.

Storm Shadow missiles have the potential to strike territories of Russia, the newspaper reported, adding that the final decision on the package would be made before the upcoming NATO summit in July.

In May, UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said that Italy, alongside France, was supplying Storm Shadow long-range missiles to Ukraine to allow Ukrainian troops to strike at the Crimean peninsula. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani then denied that his country was supplying Ukraine with weapons capable of reaching deep into Russia.

The Kremlin has consistently warned against continued arms deliveries to Kiev since the start of Russia's military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, saying it would lead to further escalation of the conflict. In April 2022, Russia sent a diplomatic note to all NATO countries on the issue of arms supplies to Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has warned that any cargo containing weapons for Ukraine will become a legitimate target for Russian strikes.

A Sputnik

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Ukraine Loses Up to 455 Soldiers in Clashes With Russia's Western Group - MoD

Sputnik News

20240618

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Ukrainian armed forces have lost up to 455 servicepeople in clashes with Russia's Battlegroup Zapad in the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"Units of Battlegroup Zapad took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on formations of [Ukrainian troops in the LPR and the Kharkov region]," the ministry said in a statement, adding that Kiev has lost up to 455 soldiers.

Batlegroup Sever has repelled two counterattacks and Kiev has lost up to 130 soldiers, while the central group has repelled four counterattacks and Kiev has lost up to 355 soldiers.

"The Ukrainian Armed forces losses amounted to up to 665 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, including one US-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, two motor vehicles, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer," the ministry added.

A Sputnik

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'RaHDit' Hackers Release Data of Ukrainian Drone Operators

Sputnik News

20240618

The hacker group RaHDit has published the data of more than 1,200 Ukrainian drone operators.

Among the published data is the entire personnel structure of the 383rd Separate Remotely Piloted Aircraft Regiment of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which, according to the Russian Investigative Committee, was involved in attacks on the airfields of Shaykovka in the Kaluga region, Dyagilevo in the Ryazan region, and Engels in the Saratov region, in which people were killed.

Those identified include people with criminal records for violence against children.

In 2023, the Russian Investigative Committee indicted in absentia Colonel Sergey Burdenyuk, commander of Ukraine's 383rd Separate Remotely Piloted Aircraft Regiment, for drone attacks on Russian airfields. He is charged under the articles "Attempt by an organized group to murder two or more persons," "Sabotage," and "Murder of two or more persons in a generally dangerous manner."

According to the investigation, Burdenyuk planned and organized the launch of Tu-141 Strizh drones from the Kharkov region that were used to attack Russian airfields from October 7 to December 26, 2022.

A Sputnik

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We must all urge Russia to withdraw its forces from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Statement by UK Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine.

18 June 2024

It is now over two years since Russia launched its illegal and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine. The consequences of Putin's war have been disastrous. In Kyiv last December, I met children learning to walk again having lost limbs in Russian attacks. I met two young girls rescued months after forced abduction by Russia. We mourn for over ten thousand civilians who have lost their lives in Ukraine; we share the concerns of parents of the twenty thousand children forcibly removed and still untraced, displaced from their families. The people of Russia- in particular soldiers' mothers- suffer too. But not, of course, the Russian government, whose war chest is funded by their partners' oil and gas purchases, which in turn allows Russia to purchase weapons from DPRK and Iran, while their citizens- and millions of people across the world, face economic hardship and food insecurity.

There is a peaceful way to end this war and this suffering. Last weekend in Switzerland, 100 countries and institutions met to discuss peace, and an end to the war based on international law, the UN Charter principles and President Zelenskyy's own proposals. And I thank the Swiss government for organising this conference. From every continent, representatives emphasised that all states benefit if there is respect for the UN Charter, for territorial integrity, and sovereignty. It showed too how we could take the first steps towards peace now, including on food security, nuclear safety, and the return of Ukrainian children.

But Putin spurned this opportunity. He dismissed the peace summit. He actively sought to undermine it. He spent the days leading up to the summit launching a vicious new assault on Kharkiv, using glide-bombs to target civilians, and to inflict further damage on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. He made clear that he is interested only in Ukraine's total capitulation. He suggested a ceasefire could be considered only if Ukraine ceded its sovereign territory to him. Where is peaceful settlement and respect for the UN Charter in that?

And, now, just two days after widespread international calls for a just peace in Ukraine, Putin has gone to Pyongyang to seek yet more North Korean weapons to sustain his war, in violation of Security Council resolutions. Every member of the United Nations has a responsibility to reject this, and to uphold the principles of this institution. We must all urge Russia - the one state which can end this war immediately - to withdraw its forces from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine and engage constructively with international efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in line with the principles of the UN Charter.

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Andriy Yermak Discussed Peace Summit Outcomes and Further Contacts Development with Advisor to the President of South Africa

President of Ukraine

18 June 2024 - 22:41

In furtherance of the dialogue between President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa, the Head of the Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, held a telephone conversation with the National Security Advisor to the President of the Republic of South Africa, Sydney Mufamadi.

The parties discussed the outcomes of the inaugural Peace Summit held in Switzerland.

Andriy Yermak expressed his gratitude for South Africa's participation in the Summit and its contribution to finding ways to achieve a just peace. He expressed his confidence that the Republic of South Africa shares the principles of peace outlined in the Joint CommuniquA on a Peace Framework and that more states will support it in the near future.

The Head of the Presidential Office spoke about the plans to hold a series of thematic conferences at the ministerial and expert level on all points of the Ukrainian Peace Formula, which will help to attract even more countries to sign the Joint CommuniquA.

The parties also discussed the possibility of involving South Africa in the implementation of joint initiatives to ensure global food security.

Andriy Yermak and Sydney Mufamadi approved a follow-up plan for high-level contacts between Ukraine and the Republic of South Africa.

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We Witness the World's Determination Opening New Prospects for Restoring Our Security a the Address by the President

President of Ukraine

18 June 2024 - 20:56

Dear Ukrainians!

Today, first and foremost, I want to give special recognition to our warriors. All those who succeeded in turning this page of the war a a page that Putin was eager to dedicate to his offensive and which became yet another mistake for Russia. Everyone who is defending the Kharkiv direction, who is restraining the Russian attacks in the Pokrovsk and other Donetsk directions, and along the entire frontline a from Krynky to Vovchansk, and also along the border, including in the Sumy region. It is Ukrainian courage and resilience that determine the situation a it is what we can do, not what Russia wants or has tried to do. This is another significant result of Ukraine, of our people in this war, and I thank everyone who is truly fulfilling combat orders and performing combat missions to the fullest. I thank all those who are personally bearing the brunt of repelling Russian attacks. I thank everyone who has helped and continues to help.

We witness the world's determination opening new prospects for restoring our security. Among other things, this includes the security of Kharkiv. The destruction of Russian terrorists' positions and launchers by our forces, our warriors, near the border really matters. It is working. Exactly as we expected. And based on the results of the battles right now a in June a on different parts of the front, I would like to thank all our soldiers, sergeants and officers of the 1st separate assault battalion, the 5th separate assault brigade, the 25th separate airborne brigade, the 35th, 36th and 38th separate marine brigades. You all did a great job, warriors! The 44th artillery brigade, the 48th mechanized brigade, the 57th separate motorized infantry brigade, the 71st jaeger brigade, the 82nd airborne assault brigade, the 108th territorial defense brigade, and the 110th separate mechanized brigade. Thank you! And to all those who stand with you. Who helps, who supports, who treats the wounded, who volunteers. Who recruits and trains soldiers. Thank you! Together, Ukrainians are changing history in their favor.

Today, we also continued to prepare our next external steps, in particular, the activities between the First and Second Peace Summits. I held a meeting with international experts to appoint those responsible for regions and parts of the world in order to involve even more participants in joint work on the points of the Peace Formula. We are gradually proceeding to the formation of groups that will work on specific steps to restore security. Just like the First Peace Summit held in Switzerland, the groups should be as inclusive as possible so that different countries and leaders can express themselves. And, of course, we continue to work on the support of the communiquA of the First Summit. I am grateful to His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew for joining the communiquA and for his unwavering support of our peacemaking efforts. There will be more similar news a more new signatories to the communiquA. Our team is working on it.

And one more thing.

The meeting with the Speaker of the Seimas of Lithuania, her visit to Ukraine today. We greatly appreciate Lithuania's support, our relations, and in general, the ties of Ukraine and Ukrainians with Lithuanian society, and with the Baltic region as a whole. We can only have common security a of our states, of our peoples, of our independence. Thank you for understanding this. Gitanas, thank you! I thank the Lithuanian Parliament and the Government. All those whose hearts are with us, with our people.

We must expel the occupier.

Glory to Ukraine!

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The President Met with the Speaker of Lithuania's Seimas

President of Ukraine

18 June 2024 - 19:11

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Speaker of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania Viktorija AmilytA-Nielsen, who is on a visit to our country.

The Head of State thanked the President of Lithuania Gitanas NausAda, the Government and the Seimas, Viktorija AmilytA-Nielsen personally, and all Lithuanian people for their unity and leadership in comprehensive support of Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

"I am grateful to the Seimas for its significant political support and, of course, for the military and humanitarian assistance provided by Lithuania, as well as for its participation in the implementation of the Peace Formula," the President said.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Viktorija AmilytA-Nielsen discussed the urgent needs for strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities.

The parties noted the results of the first Global Peace Summit in Switzerland and the broad participation of international partners in the event. The President outlined the next steps for ensuring a sustainable and just peace in Ukraine.

During the meeting, they also coordinated cooperation on Ukraine's integration into the European Union and NATO.

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Presidential Office Held a Discussion on Reforming Legal Education

President of Ukraine

18 June 2024 - 16:53

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Iryna Mudra held a meeting on legislative regulation of legal education.

The event was attended by Members of Parliament, representatives of the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Justice, scholars and experts in the field of legal education.

Iryna Mudra noted that the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Education, Science and Innovation has prepared a number of proposals on the concept of the draft law on the reform of legal education.

"The Presidential Office, together with the Verkhovna Rada Committee, the Government, lawyers and experts, will work on the implementation of the reform of legal education. This is the kind of reform that should be coordinated by all authorities and an appropriate concept should be developed," the Deputy Head of the Office of the President said.

The participants discussed the recommendations of the European Commission on the draft law. In particular, they include the differentiation of educational institutions capable of training legal professionals and law enforcement officers, the strengthening of practical training, the expansion of master's programs and the introduction of a mixed form of education.

The parties agreed to continue joint discussions on the concept of the draft law on legal education reform.

The reform is aimed at improving the quality of legal education and harmonizing it with European standards.

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Courage and Professionalism Must Ensure Our Victory - President at the Graduation Ceremony of the Strategic and Operational Level Training Course at the National Defense University

President of Ukraine

18 June 2024 - 13:17

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated majors, lieutenant colonels, colonels, brigadier generals and major generals on graduating from the National Defense University and presented them with diplomas with honors.

The Head of State noted that the task of the commanders who completed the training is to increase the strength and professionalism of national defense.

"Ukrainian warriors are rightfully recognized worldwide, and not only we in Ukraine are proud of our heroes, but the world, the whole world, admires what Ukraine and all our people are doing," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President emphasized that all the experience of Ukraine's defense in this war - the experience of the army, soldiers and commanders, combat units - must not only be preserved, but also spread and scaled up to the entire system of the Defense Forces.

"Courage means a lot in war. But courage combined with professionalism, resilience along with knowledge of modern warfare practices, training together with technological capabilities - this is what must ensure our advantage, the Ukrainian advantage," he noted.

Since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, more than 80,000 Ukrainians have been honored with state awards, 426 warriors have been awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine, many of them posthumously. Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that everyone should always honor the dedication of our people to the defense of Ukraine.

Those present honored with a moment of silence the memory of all who gave their lives for our state and its people.

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Amid Escalating Hostilities, Civilian Casualties in Ukraine, Aid Donors Must Sustain Financial Support, Under-Secretary-General Urges on Heels of Peace Summit

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

9660th Meeting (PM)

SC/15376

18 June 2024

(Note: Due to the financial liquidity crisis affecting the United Nations and the resulting constraints, the full press release will be published at a later date.)

THE SITUATION IN UKRAINE

Briefing

ROSEMARY DICARLO, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs , said that a amid "a sharp escalation of hostilities and an appalling increase in civilian casualties" a many world leaders came together in Switzerland to build consensus on the elements of a just peace in Ukraine this past weekend. According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), in May at least 174 civilians were killed and 690 injured in Ukraine a the highest number of civilian casualties in a single month since June 2023. Over half occurred in the Kharkiv region due to the Russian Federation's new offensive, launched on 10 May. She pointed to the massive use of explosive weapons both in the Kharkiv region and in Kharkiv city, detailing missile attacks such as the one on 25 May, during which two air-dropped bombs struck a large home improvement centre, killing 19 people. The border town of Vovchansk, north of Kharkiv city, which saw some of the most intense fighting in the past month, is almost completely destroyed, with thousands of its residents forced to flee. This is "a repeat of the devastation visited on Mariupol, Bakhmut and Avdiivka earlier in the war," she stated.

Civilians continue to be killed and injured in other parts of Ukraine, she said. On 13 June, an attack on Kryviy Rih killed at least nine people. Regular shelling and missile attacks by Russian Federation forces have also been reported in the Kherson region a including the city of Kherson a resulting in civilian casualties and forcing many of the city's residents to flee. "The escalation of attacks impacting Ukrainian civilians is unconscionable," she asserted, noting that, since February 2022, OHCHR has recorded 11,126 civilians killed and 21,863 injured. The actual figures are likely significantly higher. In the same period, Russian authorities have reported that at least 91 civilians have been killed and 455 injured in the Russian Federation, primarily in the Belgorod, Briansk and Kursk regions bordering Ukraine.

The relentless attacks have also caused massive damage to civilian infrastructure, she said. Even before the current escalation, a joint Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment by Ukraine, the UN, the World Bank Group and the European Commission, estimated that, as of December 2023, reconstruction and recovery would cost some $486 billion over the next decade, she said, highlighting last week's Recovery Conference in Berlin, which demonstrated international solidarity and support for Ukraine's path to recovery. However, "the worst consequences of the attacks against energy infrastructure are yet to be felt", she cautioned, stressing that the shelling and air strikes are also making it difficult to complete the repair of damaged facilities before next winter.

The 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is currently 27 per cent funded, she said, urging donors to sustain their financial support, as it will allow for the delivery of life-saving assistance to the vulnerable population. She also urged the Russian Federation to enable humanitarian access to the areas under its control. Moreover, "this war has affected countries far beyond Ukraine's borders," she observed, adding that the Black Sea is a critical trade route estimated to account for over a quarter of grain trade. On the "extremely concerning" human rights situation in the regions under Russian occupation, she said that OHCHR has interviewed dozens of people who recently fled. They report increased pressure to obtain Russian passports linked to the Russian presidential decree of 27 April 2023, which mandates that anyone without Russian Federation citizenship in the occupied areas of Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk regions will be considered "foreigners" after 1 July 2024. Also, OHCHR has interviewed hundreds of released Ukrainian prisoners of war, who recounted systematic and widespread torture and ill-treatment, including sexual violence.

Statements

The representative of Slovenia congratulated Switzerland for hosting a successful peace summit on Ukraine. A joint communiquA, signed by most delegations, provides palpable groundwork for a process that might bring peace to that country and stability to the wider region. "This peace process is not antiaRussian," he stressed. However, one would be right if they would view it as "a rejection of aggression", "an instance of rejecting the use of military force for achieving political goals over diplomacy", and "a voice for upholding the international law, including the UN Charter". He said there can be no peace without all parties involved, expressing hope that the Russian Federation will demonstrate a genuine willingness to end the war and engage in good faith in negotiations. "The UN and its Charter are the glue that holds this post-war collective security together," he said, adding: "It is in none's interest to see this system erode and collapse." The Council must start with "building trust".

The representative of the United States said that "the Kremlin wants Ukraine to accept an unjust peace that rewards Russia's aggression while facing the barrel of a gun". The Russian Federation's so-called "peace plan" a released just days before States gathered in Switzerland a "fools no one", she stressed. She added: "Demanding that Ukraine withdraw from its internationally recognized territory before considering negotiations mocks the very principle this Organization was created to reject a that countries may not acquire territory through force." The international community, therefore, must urge Moscow to come to the table ready for constructive, fair dialogue. However, a sovereign Ukraine must be at the head of that table, as any discussion about negotiated settlement is, at its core, about Ukraine's future. In that context, she expressed regret that China released a peace plan formulated without Ukraine's participation and stressed that, if China wants peace, it should cease supporting the Russian Federation's defence industrial base.

The representative of Switzerland stated: "We must have the courage to build peace. And to do that, we need to talk about it." From 15 to 16 June, over 100 countries, international organizations and religious representatives met to discuss how to launch a peace process based on international law. "This is a clear signal in favour of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine," she said, noting that, for the first time, "we discussed peace in Ukraine at the highest level".

Participants established a common vision in several areas, she said, namely: safe and secure use of Ukrainian nuclear power plants and facilities, and the inadmissibility of any threat or use of nuclear weapons; free, full and safe commercial navigation, as well as access to sea ports in the Black and Azov Seas are critical; food security which must not be weaponized in any way; and complete exchange of prisoners of war. Also, all deported and unlawfully displaced Ukrainian children, as well as all other unlawfully detained Ukrainian civilians, must be returned to Ukraine. "Together, we have laid the important groundwork. We now need to ensure that we maintain this momentum," she said, stressing that "further efforts are needed to make progress towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine".

The representative of China stressed the imperative to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all States and prioritize their legitimate security concerns, calling for a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture. His country and other relevant parties have put forward several initiatives and proposals for advancing the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis. Among them was the joint launch with Brazil of "six-point common understandings" on the crisis, with an emphasis on dialogue and negotiation as the only viable solution. Encouraging more countries to support the six-point common understandings, he called the United States to work for an early end of the war and restore peace, instead of escalating tensions, provoking confrontations and sabotaging international peace and solidarity.

The representative of Sierra Leone , while noting the conflicting parties' pronouncements of their readiness for dialogue, stated that it is "clear" that Ukraine's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity must be respected for genuine peace to be achieved. It is therefore "imperative that direct engagement between both parties take place sooner, rather than later", he said. Reiterating that the conflict has strained global political and economic relations and heightened geopolitical tensions, he pointed out that this has "serious implications" for international cooperation on critical socioeconomic and development issues. Further, the erosion of trust and cooperation between nations has led to a breakdown in negotiations on important global matters, such as arms control, nuclear non-proliferation, cybersecurity and trade. "Sierra Leone, once more, calls for good-faith diplomatic efforts in pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the conflict," he said against that backdrop, again urging full respect for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The representative of Mozambique voiced concern over the dangerous escalatory trajectory of the conflict, including the risk of nuclear fallout by intent, miscalculation or accident, and "the real possibility of the conflict to engulf Europe in an all-out military confrontation". Stressing that dialogue and diplomacy remain the "only viable paths" to de-escalation, cessation of hostilities and eventual settlement, he urged the warring parties to put aside their differences and play a constructive role toward a sustainable resolution of the conflict. "The longer the war continues, the further the prospect of a lasting peace recedes," he cautioned, adding that the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers is imperative.

The representative of the United Kingdom said that the Russian Federation's war chest is funded by its partners' oil and gas purchases, which, in turn, allows Moscow to purchase weapons from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Iran. This past weekend, 100 countries and institutions met in Switzerland to discuss peace in Ukraine. Representatives from every continent emphasized that all States benefit if there is respect for the UN Charter, territorial integrity and sovereignty. "But, Putin spurned this opportunity," she said, by dismissing the peace summit and actively seeking to undermine it. He spent the days leading up to the summit launching a vicious new assault on Kharkiv, using glide bombs. Two days after the summit, "Putin has gone to Pyongyang to seek yet more North Korean weaponry in order to sustain his war machine in violation of Security Council resolutions". Every UN member has a responsibility to reject this, she stressed, urging the Russian Federation to withdraw its forces from the internationally recognized territory of Ukraine and engage constructively with international efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace.

The representative of France pointed out that, while countries met in Switzerland "to find a path towards peace", the Russian Federation intensified its strikes on Ukrainian territory, deliberately targeted civilians and flouted the rights of prisoners of war. Further, Moscow worked to denigrate that peace summit, denouncing its alleged partiality as an attempt to impose an ultimatum. He stressed, however, that Moscow a just before the start of the summit a set out conditions for Ukraine's "pure and simple surrender". As the Russian Federation has demonstrated that it does not wish to negotiate in good faith a "equating peace with capitulation" a he said that the international community bears the collective responsibility to call on Moscow to cease its aggression, return to respect for international law and join the discussion inaugurated in Switzerland. Appeals for peace can only be addressed to the Russian Federation, he added, as only that country is undermining international peace and security by deciding, every day, to continue its war.

The representative of Malta observed that the robust participation at the peace summit hosted by Switzerland demonstrates the international community's willingness to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine. "This is just the start of the process, and it is on us a as members of the international community a to move forward," she said, noting that the summit's thematic sessions opened avenues for possible engagement in the crucial areas of food security, freedom of navigation on the Black Sea, nuclear safety and security, as well as the exchange of prisoners of war and the return of the many thousands of Ukrainian children. However, she voiced concern over Moscow's narrative around the event, which attempts to legitimize its aggression and obstructs a common understanding of a possible path for peace. While Ukraine is fighting "a war of necessity", the Russian Federation continues to inflict suffering and damage, she stressed, pointing to the recent offensive against the Kharkiv region which has caused unmeasurable suffering to civilians.

The representative of Japan underlined the timeliness of this meeting, which followed the peace summit on Ukraine. "At the summit, we reiterated the international community's commitment towards achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, which Japan highly commends," he said. "Ukraine today may be elsewhere in the world, including East Asia, tomorrow," he cautioned, highlighting the need to uphold the fundamental principles of international law, and prevent any future attempts to change the status quo by force. Peace in Ukraine must be achieved based on the UN Charter. Last week, the top leaders of Japan and Ukraine signed a bilateral support and cooperation accord, covering security and defence, humanitarian assistance, and recovery and reconstruction. The pact was signed based on the conviction that the issue of Ukraine is for the entire international community, he stressed.

The representative of Algeria stressed that "there are no reasons whatsoever" that could justify the killing of civilians and the suffering of refugees and internally displaced persons. Urging the parties to the conflict to curb escalation and "give inclusive dialogue the chance it deserves", he stressed that peaceful settlement of the conflict must be based on the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations a "that no one can question" a and the legitimate security concerns of both parties. For its part, the Council must tackle important, urgent questions a primarily, how to immediately stop the loss of life and destruction of civilian infrastructure; how to end the hostilities and maintain peace and security; and how to achieve a just and lasting solution to this conflict. "This should direct our compass," he urged.

The representative of Guyana welcomed the intensified diplomatic efforts this month to respond to Ukraine's humanitarian and security situation and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Deploring the mounting civilian casualties sustained in this war, she warned that "the risk of a major catastrophe is growing exponentially with each passing day". The illegal invasion of Ukraine has already caused untold loss and destruction of life and property, and led to a humanitarian and refugee crisis that is considered to be the largest and fastest displacement crisis in Europe since the Second World War. Prolonging the war any further will only increase the already dire consequences for the civilian population and global peace and security, she stressed, commending States' efforts to provide humanitarian support to Ukraine, including to Ukrainian refugees trapped overseas.

The representative of Ecuador expressed regret that, two years after the Russian Federation began its invasion of Ukraine, there is still no sign of an end to the conflict. On the contrary, hostilities and the risk of escalation are increasing, exacerbating the tense geopolitical situation and raising the risk of a broader confrontation. Armed conflicts also tend to divert attention and funds necessary to address urgent global challenges, negatively affecting developing countries, he pointed out. He called upon Moscow to comply with the March 2022 order of the International Court of Justice and suspend its military operations in Ukraine and to open dialogue and diplomacy as the legitimate, effective path to seeking peace.

The representative of the Russian Federation , while noting that the West was officially motivated to call today's meeting to discuss the political situation in Ukraine, said that their statements contained "almost nothing political in them a or nothing new, in any case". However, there is much to discuss on the political front, as the authority of Ukraine's President expired on 20 May and the question arises as to who, from a legal standpoint, can legitimately participate in peace talks involving Ukraine. He also said that the principle of respect for territorial integrity applies to States that offer their citizens equal rights and self-determination and possess a Government representing all people belonging to their territory, which he said is not the case for Russian-speaking people in Ukraine. Expressing regret that this idea was not reflected in the Secretariat's statement, he said that the Kyiv regime currently focuses only on serving the West's geopolitical interests because "only that will guarantee its political survival".

Today's meeting, he continued, was convened with one goal a "to try to flog a dead horse with a pseudo-peace and pseudo-global conference in BArgenstock". He said that, for any sensible observer, that meeting was doomed to fail from the beginning because its organizers "thought about everything except peace" and sought to present the Russian Federation with an ultimatum. The number and geographic coverage of participants "clearly shows that the outcome of it was zero", he stressed, adding that it "will not be a starting point for any serious negotiations to resolve the Ukraine conflict". He added: "You can convene 10 of these kinds of tAte-A -tAtes, but it won't bring peace any closer." Recalling his country's peace proposal presented on 14 June, he said that Western rejections of the same "simply reaffirm the strategic blindness of Western capitals". He also said that it is "clear" that the reality on the ground will change further a and not in Kyiv's favour a stating that the "conditions for starting negotiations will then be different".

The representative of the Republic of Korea , Council President for June, spoke in his national capacity to welcome that, at the first Summit on Peace in Ukraine convened in Switzerland, leaders agreed on a common vision vis-A -vis nuclear safety, food security and humanitarian issues. Various views on ways to end the war were exchanged during the summit, which laid vital groundwork for achieving lasting peace in Ukraine. Also last week, a series of high-level conferences a including the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Italy and the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Germany a demonstrated a shared sense of urgency for stopping the war. However, amid these efforts, the Russian Federation has continued its attacks against Ukrainian cities with missiles and drones. While "all wars eventually end, and so will the war in Ukraine", he underscored that how it ends "will largely determine the future of global politics and define the security architecture in Europe and beyond".

The representative of Ukraine said that the Russian Federation was not present at the peace summit as it remains unwilling to accept and implement "the language" of international law and the UN Charter. With almost two thirds represented at the highest level, the event marks "the first step towards a comprehensive, just and lasting peace" based on the Charter and the core principles of international law. He recalled that efforts at appeasing an aggressor won't work, just as they failed in the past, citing the Munich Agreement of 1938. At that time, world leaders did everything to appease Adolf Hitler by allowing him to annex the region of Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia "in return for a promise that this would be his last territorial demand". Similarly, his country was persuaded in 2014 that the temporary occupation and attempted annexation of territories of Ukraine, including Crimea, by the Russian Federation was "the last territorial grab that Moscow needed".

Six months after the Munich Agreement, the whole of Czechoslovakia was occupied, and less than a year later, the Second World War began, he recalled. Neither Adolf Hitler nor Benito Mussolini were present at the first inter-allied conference in London in June 1941. The Allies focused on three key topics, although the scope of critical issues to be addressed was much broader. "So, as you see, we have been through all this before," he said, noting that the world had tried appeasement and territorial gifts, rejoiced over signed papers with hollow promises from the aggressors and then faced the atrocities of the war. He cautioned that the proposals developed by other countries should be a part of dialogue with Ukraine, rather than conveyed through media, adding that the summit's joint communiquA is open for all Member States and calling on all peace-loving nations to join those who have already supported the document. Quoting the words of the President of Ukraine at the summit, he said: "There is no need to reinvent the wheel when the UN Charter already defines the foundations of peace and normal coexistence of peoples. So, we just have to return to them."

The representative of the Czech Republic , aligning himself with the statement to be delivered by the European Union, said that one country wishes most to see a durable, just peace a "and that country is Ukraine". Welcoming, in that context, the recent peace summit, he said that countries from all regions of the world sent a clear message to Moscow: "Any peace proposal that is not in line with the UN Charter, including the principle of territorial integrity, cannot be called a 'peace plan'." While expressing regret that "several countries with the ambition to play an active global role" were not present, he said that Prague supports Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's peace formula as "the only peace plan on the table" that accords with the Charter and international law. Addressing the representative of the Russian Federation, he stressed that international norms prohibit arms exports to aggressors a not to a State that is a victim of external aggression.

The representative of Denmark , speaking also on behalf of Finland , Iceland , Norway and Sweden , underscored that "the significance of the summit cannot be overstated". It reconfirmed widespread international support for a peace process based on international law and conveyed strong political will to solve challenges, such as food and nuclear security, prisoners of war and deported persons. With 78 participating countries signing a joint communiquA to this end, the summit sent a strong message: "State borders cannot be redrawn by force." The principles of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity are non-negotiable, she asserted, adding that global support for Ukraine is of utmost importance for international peace and security.

However, she continued, in the run-up to the summit, the Russian Federation committed some of its deadliest attacks against Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion. According to OHCHR, the month of May was the deadliest in terms of civilian casualties since June 2023, with more than half of casualties attributed to Moscow's ongoing assault on Kharkiv. During this same period, there has been a surge of cyberattacks and disinformation efforts by the Russian Federation. "The difference in political approach between a summit for peace in Switzerland and Russia's brutal actions in Ukraine is striking," she observed, adding that Moscow's so-called "peace proposal" announced on the eve of the summit "lays bare the intentions of Moscow", which must be rejected: namely "to subjugate Ukraine and deny Ukraine its inalienable right to sovereignty and territorial integrity".

The representative of the European Union , in its capacity as observer, highlighted the strong support expressed at the summit for the UN Charter and international law, welcoming the joint communiquA adopted at the event. The bloc stands ready to support tangible steps for its follow-up. The Russian Federation and its leadership "must be held accountable for waging a war of aggression against Ukraine and other serious crimes under international law, as well as the massive damage caused by the war", she said. The 2024 UN report on children and armed conflict again lists the Russian Armed Forces and affiliated armed groups for killing and maiming children, as well as attacks on schools and hospitals. The Union has joined the international coalition for the return of Ukrainian children and has engaged in efforts to bring back home the Ukrainian children deported and forcibly transferred by the Russian Federation, she added, reaffirming the bloc's unwavering support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.

The representative of Lithuania , also speaking for Estonia and Latvia and aligning himself with the European Union, expressed support for Ukraine's peace formula as "the only viable road map" to achieve lasting peace based on international law. "Any initiatives or plans coming from the Kremlin or elsewhere, neglecting the core principles of the UN Charter, cannot be justified or supported," he stressed. He also condemned Moscow's continued use of special ammunition equipped with hazardous chemical substances against the Ukrainian Armed Forces, urging the Council to find an effective international response to the Russian Federation's violation of international law and the provisions of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction. Further, he called on Moscow to immediately release all illegally detained Ukrainians and return the more than 20,000 Ukrainian children deported or illegally transferred to the Russian Federation.

He went on to point out that the Russian Federation is stepping up its hybrid activities against its neighbours, particularly in the Baltic Sea region. These include arson attacks, GPS jamming, attacks against critical infrastructure, interference in European Union elections, physical violence, cyberattacks and instrumentalization of migration. Such actions, he underscored, "are a deliberate, escalatory provocation to intimidate neighbouring countries and their societies". Among other points, he called for the political and military leadership of the Russian Federation a "and its accomplice Belarus" a to be held accountable for the serious international crimes committed in Ukraine, also condemning Tehran and Pyongyang for being complicit in Moscow's indiscriminate war by providing weapons and ammunition. Emphasizing the need to cover all losses suffered by the Ukrainian State and people, he said that, eventually, immobilized Russian Federation assets should be used for this purpose in the absence of voluntary compensation.

The representative of Poland said that the peace summit in Switzerland demonstrated overwhelming support for ending the hostilities in Ukraine. "Once again, the international community spoke loudly and clearly that it remains committed to ending the conflict in a way that guarantees Ukrainian sovereignty and territorial integrity," he stated. On the contrary, the approach to the peace process presented by the Russian Federation "leaves no room for negotiations", serving as an inept justification for the continuation of the war. "The peace terms proposed by Russia are unacceptable to the entire civilized world," he asserted. Poland was among the signatories of the Joint CommuniquA on a Peace Framework agreed to in Switzerland, he noted, expressing hope that "progress made towards nuclear safety, food security and humanitarian issues will allow us to come closer to just peace".

The representative of Germany said that, as a result of its relentless shelling, and missile and drone attacks, much of Ukraine's critical infrastructure lies in ruins. Millions of people in that country are affected. "It is therefore imperative that we tackle the question of reconstruction early on, while the war is still ongoing," he said, noting that Germany co-hosted last week's international Ukraine recovery conference in Berlin, with more than 3,400 representatives from the public and private sector and international and non-governmental organizations. This Berlin conference showed broad unity and solidarity in support of Ukraine, with over 110 agreements signed and investments amounting to about $17 billion announced.

The representative of Italy , aligning himself with the European Union, said that the recent peace summit in Switzerland "marked a first important step towards restoring diplomacy's rightful role". Full implementation of the principles of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity concerns the entire UN membership, he stressed, as respect for these principles "is what holds the international community together". He therefore called on all Member States to "not get misled by fake narratives confusing peace with surrender" or those artificially pitting the West against the East or the South. "The outcome of this conflict and the destiny of the system of rules based on the UN Charter are clearly intertwined," he underscored. Diplomacy is needed "to sustain the legitimate concerns and expectations of developing countries" facing disruptions to global supply chains and food security, he said, encouraging the participation of all partners from Asia, Africa and Latin America in discussions towards peace.

...

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Russian oil tanks burn after drone attack

By VOA News June 18, 2024

Russian oil storage tanks were ablaze overnight after being hit in a drone attack, according to Russian officials, and Ukrainian forces reportedly shot down 10 drones that Russia launched overnight.

Ukraine did not claim responsibility for the oil tank attack in the town of Azov, located in Russian's southern Rostov region. However, Kyiv has carried out similar strikes before, and has said in the past that targeting Russia's energy infrastructure hurts Moscow's war effort.

"According to preliminary data, there are no casualties," Rostov governor Vasily Golubev wrote on the Telegram messaging app.

Russia's emergency services ministry said 200 firefighters were sent to battle the blaze, which had spread to more than 3,200 square meters.

The Rostov region is directly across the border from Ukraine. Azov is on the Don River about 16 kilometers from the Sea of Azov.

Russian drone attack

Ukraine's air force said it destroyed 10 drones that Russia launched overnight. The drones were hit over Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk in Ukraine.

Ukraine's military also said troops were fighting Russian forces on the outskirts of Chasiv Yar, in the country's eastern Donetsk region.

"The enemy keeps trying to advance to the micro-district Novy, in the town of Chasiv Yar," Ukraine's military said in a briefing, adding that fighting was "currently taking place."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in his daily address that troops on the front lines were making strides against Russian forces. He said he had received reports from "Pokrovsk and other directions in the Donetsk region, as well as the Kharkiv region. Our forces are gradually pushing the occupier out of the Kharkiv region."

He also noted the importance of drones in the conflict.

"Drones are the technological component in which we should have an advantage. And we will. In some types of unmanned systems, Ukrainians are already a global leader," he said. "This is also evident in our negotiations with our partners - many are interested in the experience our warriors already have and in the equipment we produce in Ukraine."

Material from Reuters and Agence France-Presse was used in this report.

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Newark, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Brainy Insights estimates that the USD 10.6 billion aseptic processing systems market will reach USD 18.2 billion by 2033. In recent years, the aseptic processing system market has expanded substantially on a global scale. This results from improvements in medical technology and increased demand for pharmaceutical and sterile food items. The advancements above are a direct outcome of a growing understanding and consciousness of the significance of infection control in the healthcare industry. The pharmaceutical sector has substantially aided market expansion. This is because the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry requires aseptic filling and packaging. The aseptic processing market will continue to expand globally shortly as these sectors prioritise safety and control. As environmental concerns increase, positive developments in the aseptic processing systems industry are anticipated.



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North America to account for the largest market size during the forecast period.



North America is expected to account for the larget market share during the forecast period. The United States is one of the major suppliers of Aseptic processing systems in the North American market. There are several factors which affect the growth of the market in the region. The main focus of the region on pharmaceutical innovation and biotechnology is one of the reasons that boosts the markets growth in the region.



The aseptic packaging segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 6.25 billion.



The aseptic packaging segment dominated the market, with the most significant revenue of USD 6.25 billion. The aseptic packaging segment holds a major share of the market due to the growing demand for integrated filling and packaging machines, rising consumer awareness, and convenience food usage, all of which are factors driving the aseptic processing systems market's growth.



The pharmaceuticals segment dominated the market with the most significant revenue of USD 5.83 billion.



The pharmaceuticals segment dominated the market, with the most significant revenue of USD 5.83 billion. The pharmaceutical industry uses aseptic processing systems to preserve sterility and increase product durability, which fuels the expansion of this market.



Custom Requirements can be requested for this report @ https://www.thebrainyinsights.com/enquiry/request-customization/14410

Market Dynamics:



Driver: Increasing demand for convenience foods and beverages



Convenient, ready-to-eat portable items have become increasingly popular in the food and beverage sector. Consumers' shifting lifestyles and relocation to cities are driving this need. Thus, aseptic processing is essential in producing food and beverages to guarantee freshness and lifespan without preservatives.



Restraint: Stringent regulatory requirements



Stringent rules and regulations are imposed in the food and pharmaceutical industries for using products and services. The same guidelines are also applied in the aseptic processing systemens requirements. In order to maintain the quality and safety of the products, manufacturers must follow these guidelines. Time is lost because of the complexity of the regulatory environment governing various sectors of the economy and the aseptic processing industry. This ultimately results in production pauses and may prevent timely market entry. Furthermore, producers risk paying fines or being obliged to call back goods if they don't comply. Aseptic processing adoption rates may decline due to these increased operating expenses.



Report Scope



Base Year 2023 Forecast period 2024-2033 Report Coverage Revenue estimation and forecast, company profile, competitive landscape, growth factors, and recent trends Regional scope Asia Pacific, Europe, South America, North America, and Middle East & Africa Market Size(unit) USD 18.2 Billion Data Warehousing Market CAGR 5.6% Segments Covered Equipment, Application

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Some of the major players operating in the aseptic processing systems market are:



 Dickinson and Co

 GEA Group

 IMA Group

 Robert Bosch GmbH

 Sealed Air Corporation

 SPX Flow, Inc.

 Amcor Limited

 DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

 Greatview Aseptic Packaging Co., Ltd

 JBT Corporation

 Schott AG

 Sig Combibloc Group AG

 Tetra Laval International



Key Segments cover in the market:



By Equipment:



 Aseptic Processing Equipment

 Aseptic Packaging



By Application:



 Food & Beverages

 Pharmaceuticals



About the report:



The global aseptic processing systems market is analyzed based on value (USD billion). All the segments have been analyzed on a worldwide, regional, and country basis. The study includes the analysis of more than 30 countries for each part. The report offers an in-depth analysis of driving factors, opportunities, restraints, and challenges for gaining critical insight into the market. The study includes Porter's five forces model, attractiveness analysis, raw material analysis, supply, and demand analysis, competitor position grid analysis, distribution, and marketing channels analysis.



About The Brainy Insights:



The Brainy Insights is a market research company, aimed at providing actionable insights through data analytics to companies to improve their business acumen. We have a robust forecasting and estimation model to meet the clients' objectives of high-quality output within a short span of time. We provide both customized (clients' specific) and syndicate reports. Our repository of syndicate reports is diverse across all the categories and sub-categories across domains. Our customized solutions are tailored to meet the clients' requirements whether they are looking to expand or planning to launch a new product in the global market.



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Avinash D

Head of Business Development

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NEW YORK, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces an investigation of potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE: TM) resulting from allegations that Toyota may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Toyota 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=25663 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On June 3, 2024, The New York Times published an article entitled Toyota and Other Japanese Carmakers Say They Mishandled Safety Tests. This article stated, in pertinent part, that Toyota [. . .] and other top Japanese automakers said on Monday that internal investigations found they had mishandled vehicle testing on dozens of models over the past decade. Further, Toyota said it had failed to gather proper data when doing pedestrian and occupant safety tests for three models, including its popular Yaris Cross sport utility vehicle.

On this news, Toyotas American Depositary Shares (ADSs) fell $5.34 per ADS, or 2.45%, to close at $212.17 per ADS on June 3, 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 firms 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

case@rosenlegal.com

www.rosenlegal.com
NEW YORK, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of JBS S.A. (OTC: JBSAY) resulting from allegations that JBS may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased JBS 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=22976 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On February 28, 2024, Reuters published an article entitled New York sues meatpacking giant JBS over climate claims. The article stated, in pertinent part, that JBS, the worlds largest beef producer, was sued on Wednesday by New York states attorney general, which accused it of misleading the public about its impact on the environment in order to boost sales. Attorney General Letitia James said JBS USA Food Co, the Brazilian companys American-based unit, has no viable plan to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, making its stated commitment to achieving that goal false and misleading.

On this news, JBS American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) fell $0.22 per ADR, or 2.4%, to close at $9.02 per ADR on February 28, 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 firms 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

case@rosenlegal.com

www.rosenlegal.com
BRISBANE, Australia, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MyBudget, Australias most trusted specialist in budgeting, debt solutions and money management, today announced its successful transition to Australian eSigning innovator Annature.

This partnership sees MyBudget, which also operates loans solutions service MyBudget Loans and custom home building company MyHomeBuild, using Annature for all formal internal and external client-facing documents across its businesses, at a significantly lower cost than its previous eSigning provider, DocuSign.

For more than 25 years, MyBudgets team of money experts have been helping Australians reduce their debt, create savings and manage their money with confidence, offering detailed budget plans, a secure automated payment platform that manages and pays bills on time, and ongoing support from money experts. To continue this market-leading service (in addition to MyBudget Loans and MyHomeBuild), MyBudget required a fast, effective eSigning solution for sales contracts, employment contracts and loan applications, along with a myriad of other businesswide supporting documents.

In switching from DocuSign to Annature, MyBudget reduced eSigning costs by over 280% per year, while also benefiting from personalised, always-on service and custom-designed features.

With DocuSign, we were paying in excess of $50,000 per year, and we found ourselves paying excessive overage costs, which essentially rendered the partnership commercially unviable, said Danielle Puntureri, Chief Marketing & People Officer at MyBudget. Our newfound partnership with Annature now sees our costs reduced enormously to $13,000 per year. Any overage on our pre-approved usage is charged at the same rate as our earlier envelopes, with no overage or premium cost applied. For us, this is a far more cost-effective and commercially sensible arrangement.

Supporting an Australian-owned and operated business is also important to MyBudget, Puntureri continued. Annature is secure, efficient and cost-effective. Their agile and client-centric approach to finding the right solution to suit our business requirements allowed for a seamless migration away from our previous provider.

Annature worked closely alongside MyBudget to execute this transition from DocuSign on a tight timeframe. Annature worked hand in glove with us to provide us access to the platform within 24 hours of contract signing, in case we were cut off from our incumbent service provider, Puntureri said. Fortunately, we were able to complete the full onboarding and roll-out plan prior to account deactivation.

Additionally, MyBudget previously used DocuSigns tagging function, which auto-placed fields in its clients contracts that arent available in a standard template. To make the switch viable, Annature founder and CEO Corey Cacic and Product Manager Daniel Edridge custom-built this functionality into their platform, which is now available to all Annature users.

Were believers in MyBudgets mission to help everyday Australians live a life free from money worries, by gaining control of their finances and managing personal debt, commented Annature founder and CEO Corey Cacic. We knew our eSigning solutions were a perfect fit for their business needs, at a much fairer price point than their previous provider. As we continue to innovate and refine our platform, well consult closely with MyBudget on any new features we believe will enhance their operations.

ABOUT ANNATURE:

Annature is Australia's leading eSignature and client verification provider, established in 2020. We offer secure and efficient digital signing solutions ideal for businesses needing to send documents electronically and conduct client verifications seamlessly.

Contact information: Corey Cacic, corey@annature.com.au

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/54e57f6a-9126-4587-9243-9fd725a60f53
NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAW

CALGARY, Alberta, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- High Arctic Energy Services Inc. (TSX: HWO) ("High Arctic" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce the results from its 2024 annual general and special meeting of shareholders held on June 17, 2024 in Calgary, Alberta (the "Meeting"). Each of the matters voted upon at the Meeting was approved by the shareholders at the Meeting. Details of each matter are included in the Corporation's Management Information Circular dated May 9, 2024 (Circular), a copy of which is available on the Corporations profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The voting results for each matter voted on by the shareholders at the Meeting are provided below.

1. Arrangement



The shareholders passed a special resolution approving the plan of arrangement under Section 193 of the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) (Arrangement) among High Arctic, its shareholders and High Arctic Overseas Holdings Corp. (SpinCo). The Arrangement is described in detail in the Circular and its appendices. The vote in respect of the Arrangement was carried out by ballot, with 98.994% of votes cast being in favour of the resolution approving the Arrangement. Excluding the votes of interested parties as required by Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101), 98.92% of votes were cast in favour of the Arrangement.

The Corporation will apply for a final order approving the Arrangement from the Alberta Court of Kings Bench on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. Assuming all other terms and conditions to the Arrangement are satisfied, it is expected that the Arrangement will be completed on July 31, 2024.

2. Return of Capital



The shareholders passed a special resolution approving the distribution of surplus cash to shareholders by way of a return of capital of up to $0.76 per common share of High Arctic (the Return of Capital). The vote in respect of the Return of Capital was carried out by ballot, with 99.085% of votes cast being in favour of the resolution approving the Return of Capital. The amount of the Return of Capital remains subject to determination by the Board of Directors of High Arctic. The Corporation expects that the Return of Capital will be completed and paid to shareholders on or around July 17, 2024.

3. Deferred Share Unit Plan



The shareholders passed an ordinary resolution approving the redemption of all outstanding deferred share units (DSUs) under the Corporations deferred share unit plan. The vote in respect of the DSUs was carried out by ballot, with 98.431% of votes cast being in favour of the resolution. Excluding the votes of shareholders who currently hold DSUs, as required pursuant to the rules of the Toronto Stock Exchange (an aggregate of 2,275,567 shares), 98.297% of votes were cast in favour of the resolution.

4. SpinCo Equity Compensation Plan



The shareholders passed an ordinary resolution approving an omnibus equity compensation plan for SpinCo. The vote in respect of the SpinCo equity compensation plan was carried out by ballot, with 98.631% of votes cast being in favour of the resolution. 

5. Fixing the Number of Directors



The shareholders passed a resolution fixing the number of directors to be elected at the Meeting at four (4). The vote in respect of this matter carried out by show of hands, with 94.473% of votes cast being in favour of the resolution.

6. Election of Directors



All of the nominees named in the Circular were elected as directors of the Corporation. The vote in respect of this matter carried out by ballot. The detailed results of voting are as follows:

Nominee # Votes For % Votes For # Votes Withheld % Votes Withheld Michael R. Binnion 28,524,297 97.996 583,432 2.004 Simon P.D. Batcup 28,540,756 98.052 566,973 1.948 Douglas J. Strong 28,540,459 98.051 567,270 1.949 Craig F. Nieboer 28,867,556 99.175 240,173 0.825

7. Appointment of Auditor



The shareholders approved the reappointment of KPMG LLP, as the auditors of the Corporation to hold office until the close of the next annual meeting of shareholders of the Corporation, with their remuneration to be fixed by the directors. The vote in respect of this matter carried out by show of hands, with 99.374% of votes cast being in favour of the resolution.

CEO of High Arctic, Mike Maguire stated The resounding shareholder support for the Arrangement, the Return of Capital and the other resolutions key to our reorganization confirms our thesis that separating the Canadian and Papua New Guinean businesses is the best pathway for each business to realize its potential and maximize value for our current shareholders.

For more information on the Arrangement and the Return of Capital and the other matters approved at the Meeting, please see the Circular and the Corporation's news releases dated May 11, 2024, May 21, 2024, May 29, 2024, and June 12, 2024 available on the Corporations SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.com

About High Arctic

High Arctic is an energy services provider. High Arctic is a market leader in Papua New Guinea providing drilling and specialized well completion services and supplies rental equipment including rig matting, camps, material handling and drilling support equipment. In western Canada, High Arctic provides pressure control and other oilfield equipment on a rental basis to exploration and production companies, from its bases in Whitecourt and Red Deer, Alberta.

For further information, please contact:

Lonn Bate

Interim Chief Financial Officer

1.587.318.2218

1.800.668.7143

High Arctic Energy Services Inc.

Suite 2350, 3305th Avenue SW

Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2P 0L4

website: www.haes.ca

Email: info@haes.ca

Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-Looking Statements. Certain statements contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or High Arctic's and SpinCo's future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. High Arctic believes that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this press release should not be unduly relied upon by investors. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release and are expressly qualified, in their entirety, by this cautionary statement.

In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements, pertaining to the following: the timing and anticipated receipt of required regulatory (including stock exchange) and court approvals for the Arrangement; the ability of High Arctic to satisfy the other conditions to, and to complete, the Arrangement; the anticipated timing of the Return of Capital; the closing of the Arrangement; and the approval by the Board and the amount and payment of the Return of Capital. 

In respect of the forward-looking statements and information concerning the anticipated completion of the proposed Arrangement, the anticipated timing for completion of the Arrangement and related transactions, High Arctic has provided them in reliance on certain assumptions that it believe are reasonable at this time, including assumptions as to the ability of the parties to receive, in a timely manner, the necessary regulatory (including stock exchange) court and other third party approvals; and the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the closing of the Arrangement. These dates may change for a number of reasons, including inability to secure necessary shareholder, regulatory, court or other third party approvals in the time assumed or the need for additional time to satisfy the other conditions to the completion of the Arrangement. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these times.

This forward-looking information represents High Arctics views as of the date of this document and such information should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any date subsequent to the date of this document. High Arctic has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to vary from those current expectations or estimates expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. However, there may be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements not to be as expected or estimated and that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from current expectations. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as results and future events could differ materially from those expected or estimated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required by law, High Arctic undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.
Chicago, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Synthetic Leather Market is estimated to grow from USD 68.7 billion in 2023 to USD 88.0 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 5.1% in terms of value, as per the recent study by MarketsandMarkets. The growing demand for the footwear industry, coupled with increasing concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact, serves as a significant driver for innovation. This scenario presents a unique opportunity for the industry to focus on the development of bio-based synthetic leather, which not only meets consumer demands but also aligns with sustainability goals. However, the harmful effects of traditional materials like PU and PVC on human health act as restraints, emphasizing the urgent need for eco-friendly alternatives in the synthetic leather market.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=6616309

Browse in-depth TOC on " Synthetic Leather Market

279 - Market Data Tables

50 - Figures

242 - Pages

List of Key Players in Synthetic Leather Market:

Kuraray Co., Ltd. (Japan) San Fang Chemical Industry Co., Ltd. (Taiwan) Teijin Limited (Japan) NAN YA PLASTICS CORPORATION (Taiwan) Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd. (China) Mayur Uniquoters Limited (India) FILWEL Co., Ltd. (Japan) Zhejiang Hexin Holdings Co., Ltd. (China) Alfatex Italia SRL (Italy) H.R. Polycoats Private Limited (India)

Drivers, Opportunities and Challenges in Synthetic Leather Market:

Drivers: Growing demand from the footwear industry Restraint: Harmful effects of PU and PVC on humans Opportunity: Focus on development of bio-based synthetic leather Challenge: Non-biodegradability of synthetic leather

Key Findings of the Study:

Bio-based synthetic leather segment is estimated to be the fastest-growing type for synthetic leather market during the forecast period 2023 to 2028 Footwear segment is estimated to be the largest application in synthetic leather market in 2022, in terms of value Asia Pacific was the largest region for the synthetic leather market in 2022, in terms of value

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Based on Type, the synthetic leather market is segmented as PU-based, PVC-based, and bio-based synthetic leather. PU-based synthetic leather stand out as the largest segment in terms of value, globally. The PU-based synthetic leather segment's dominance in the synthetic leather market is driven by its cost-effectiveness, versatility, durability, sustainability options, and the ability to meet the appealing and ethical considerations of today's consumers and industries. This domination is attributed to the rising demand for eco-friendly leather in industries such as footwear, furnishing, automotive, clothing, bags, purses & wallets, and others. Furthermore, the bio-based synthetic leather segment is forecasted to exhibit the highest CAGR in terms of value during the forecast year 2023 and 2028.

Based on End-use industry, the synthetic leather market has been categorized into various segments including footwear, furnishing, automotive, clothing, bags, purses, & wallets, and others. Notably, the footwear segment emerged as the market leader in 2022 and is anticipated to maintain its dominant position through 2028. Furthermore, the automotive segment is forecasted to exhibit the second highest CAGR in terms of value during the forecast year 2023 and 2028. This remarkable growth and increase in demand in both the sectors are due to its affordability, sustainability, consistent quality, durability, and customization choices as well as its alignment with vegan and ethical principles, synthetic leather is highly desired in the footwear and automotive end-use industries.

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Based on Region, Asia Pacific stands out as the fastest-growing market for synthetic leather. This is primarily attributed to strengthening the sustainability and biodegradability in key industries such as footwear, furnishing, automotive, clothing, bags, purses & wallets, and others. On the other hand, the rising demand observed in emerging economies like China, India, and Japan also plays a crucial role. Growing environmental consciousness and ethical animal treatment factors have significantly fueled the demand for synthetic leather, leading to a substantial expansion of the synthetic leather market in the Asia Pacific.

Kuraray Co., Ltd.

Kuraray Co., Ltd. is a multinational company known for its diverse range of products. The company has a strong presence in the synthetic leather market. The company serves various end-use industries such as footwear, furnishing, automotive, clothing, bags, purses & wallets, and others. The synthetic leather section of Kuraray Co., Ltd. is renowned for its creativity and commitment to research and development. For instance, in January 2022, Kuraray Co., Ltd. and Nissha Co., Ltd. collaborated in the development of Material Insert Technology, utilizing synthetic leather CLARINO, and subsequently introduced the product for sale, with a focus on the mobility and consumer electronics sectors. The expansion will help the company to develop infinite possibilities in the synthetic leather market.

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SAN FRANCISCO, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hagens Berman urges Globe Life Inc. (NYSE: GL) investors who suffered substantial losses to act now by submitting your losses here.



Class Period: May 8, 2019  April 10, 2024

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: July 1, 2024

Website: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/gl

Contact An Attorney Now: GL@hbsslaw.com Phone: 844-916-0895

Globe Life Inc. (GL) Securities Class Action and Activist Short Sellers Investigative Reports:

McKinney, Texas-based insurance giant Globe Life is facing a multi-pronged crisis, grappling with explosive allegations of fraud at its American Income Life (AIL) subsidiary, a federal investigation, and a new securities class action lawsuit.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of investors, alleges that Globe Life made misleading statements and failed to disclose crucial information concerning potential widespread insurance fraud at AIL and a pervasive culture of sexual harassment.

The fraud began to emerge on Apr. 11, 2024, when short-seller Fuzzy Panda Research issued a scathing report accusing AIL of rampant fraudulent practices. The report, based on interviews with former executives and agents, outlined concerning misconduct:

Issuing policies for deceased or fictitious individuals to inflate business metrics.

Forging signatures on policy documents, compromising operational integrity.

Unauthorized withdrawals from customer bank accounts.

Generating fake policies using fictitious accounts to meet performance targets.

Fuzzy Panda further implicated AIL leadership, alleging fraudulent practices escalated under CEO Steve Greer (appointed 2017) and President Dave Zophin (joined in 2018). Their interviews suggest AIL sales teams wrote over $200 million in fraudulent annual life insurance premiums.

The report also unearthed a potential $43 million bribery and kickback scheme orchestrated by Globe Life executives. The alleged scheme involved concealing ownership of an insurance licensing testing vendor (Xcel Testing) and directing recruits to use their services for licensing exams.

These allegations triggered a significant stock price plunge, with Globe Life shares dropping $55.76 (roughly 53%) on April 11.

Further complicating matters, the company disclosed a Department of Justice (DOJ) probe into AIL's business practices, specifically sales tactics used by agents, in late April. Subpoenas were reportedly issued in late 2023, raising concerns about potential wrongdoing.

Adding to the turmoil, another short-seller, Viceroy Research, commenced a ten-part investigative report series targeting Globe Life on April 30. The initial report detailed:

Extensive background checks on AILs top-performing agents revealing allegations of kidnapping, assault, and child grooming.

A high number of fraud accusations against AIL and its agents, often surfacing in wrongful termination or sexual harassment/assault claims.

How AILs operational methods impact churn rate, structural cash flow issues, employee misclassification risks, and the use of offshore captive reinsurers for potential liquidity against impaired assets.



Were looking into whether Globe Life may have concealed widespread fraudulent business practices at AIL, said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.

If you invested in Globe Life and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firms investigation, submit your losses now 

If youd like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the Globe Life investigation, read more 

About Hagens Berman

Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com. Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.
NEW YORK, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DDC Enterprise, Ltd., (NYSEAM: DDC) (DayDayCook, DDC, or the Company), a leading content-driven food consumer brand, today announced that Malik Sadiq has been named Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Sadiq will spearhead the integration and growth of DayDayCooks brands globally, including the recent additions of Noma Lin, Yais Thai and Omsom.



Malik joins the DayDayCook leadership team at an important and exciting time as we recently completed our third Asian foods acquisition in the U.S., said Norma Chu, DayDayCooks Founder and CEO. Malik brings unique experience of driving growth and operational efficiency -- both organically and through M&A  and will help the Company efficiently execute on our business plan. We look forward to the impactful contributions he will undoubtedly make to our team as DayDayCook continues its journey to become an Asian food powerhouse.

Mr. Sadiq has more than 25 years of global food and beverage experience with more than 15 years at Tyson Foods. Most recently he was the Co-CEO and COO of LiveKindly Collective, a high-growth food company operating in 40 countries. Prior to this he was SVP of the International and Export divisions of Tyson Foods, growing revenue to $2B over his tenure. Mr. Sadiq received his Doctorate and Masters in industrial engineering and a Bachelors in electrical engineering from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.

I am very excited to join DDC and contribute to its strategy of acquiring authentic Asian brands and scaling for growth, said Malik Sadiq. DDC is uniquely positioned to drive this strategy because of its Asian origin and heritage. I am excited to bring my years of operating and M&A experience to drive DDCs strategy.

About DayDayCook  A Leader in Food Innovation

Founded in 2012, DayDayCook is a leading content-driven consumer brand offering easy and convenient ready-to-heat, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat Asian food products. The company focuses on innovative and healthy meal solutions with a fast-growing omnichannel sales network in China and the U.S., and through a strong online presence globally. The Company builds brand recognition through culinary and lifestyle content across major social media and e-commerce platforms.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including, for example, statements about completing the acquisition, anticipated revenues, growth and expansion. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Companys current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are also based on assumptions regarding the Companys present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as may, will, expect, anticipate, aim, estimate, intend, plan, believe, likely to or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company's registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

Contact:

Investors:

Head of Investor Relations

Kyle Guse

kyle.guse@daydaycook.com

CORE IR

Matt Blazei

mattb@coreir.com

Media:

DDC Enterprise Ltd.

Chris Cheung

chris.cheung@daydaycook.com
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) (B2Gold or the Company) is pleased to announce the results of a positive Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) on its 100% owned Gramalote gold project located in the Department of Antioquia, Colombia (the Gramalote Project). All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.



Highlights

Significant gold production profile with low-cost structure and favorable metallurgical characteristics Open pit gold mine with an initial life of mine of 10 years, with mill processing over 12.5 years (Life of Project) Average grade processed of 1.26 grams per tonne (g/t) gold over the first five years, benefitting from the processing of the higher-grade core at the Gramalote Project; Life of Project average grade processed of 1.00 g/t gold Life of Project gold production of approximately 2.3 million ounces with an average gold recovery of 95.9% from conventional milling, flotation and cyanide leach of the flotation concentrate Average annual gold production of approximately 234,000 ounces per year for the first five years of production Average annual gold production of approximately 185,000 ounces per year over the Life of Project Projected lowest quartile all-in sustaining costs (AISC) of $886 per gold ounce over the Life of Project Annual processing rate of 6.0 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa)



Strong project economics Life of Project after-tax free cash flow of $1.38 billion Assuming a discount rate of 5.0%, net present value (NPV) after-tax of $778 million, generating an after-tax internal rate of return (IRR) of 20.6%, with a project payback on pre-production capital of 3.1 years Estimated pre-production capital cost of $807 million (includes approximately $93 million for mining equipment and $63 million for contingency)



Robust amount of historical drilling and engineering studies have been completed on Gramalote, which significantly de-risks future project development Over 270,000 meters of historical drilling, providing B2Gold with a robust mineral resource model Gramalote has a long history of studies and technical reports which supported the existing mining permit that is currently in place As well, specific mining, processing, infrastructure, environmental, and social studies have been historically completed. Extensive metallurgical test work has demonstrated high gold recoveries (approximately 96%) at a coarse grind size for the selected processing flow sheet. This provides a high level of confidence in the engineering, production and operating cost estimates contained in the PEA



Gramalote benefits from strong local community and government support An existing mining permit is currently in place on a larger-scale project; this permit will require modification to reflect the new medium-scale project contemplated in the PEA B2Gold anticipates the permit modification time frame will be between 12 and 18 months from submission to the permit authorities



B2Gold to commence feasibility work with the goal of completing a feasibility study by mid-2025



PEA Overview

The Gramalote Project is located in central Colombia, approximately 230 kilometers (km) northwest of Bogota and 100 km northeast of Medellin, in the Province of Antioquia, which has expressed a positive attitude towards the development of responsible mining projects in the region. Based on the preliminary results completed in 2022 of the contemplated large-scale project with AngloGold Ashanti Limited (AngloGold), the project did not meet the combined investment return thresholds for development by both 50% ownership partners, B2Gold and AngloGold. As a result, B2Gold and AngloGold explored alternatives for the project which resulted in B2Gold acquiring AngloGolds 50% interest in the Gramalote Project, resulting in a sole owner of the Gramalote Project for the first time in recent history. Post consolidation, B2Gold completed a detailed review of the Gramalote Project, including the higher-grade core of the resource, facility size and location, power supply, mining and processing options, tailings design, resettlement, potential construction sequencing and camp design to identify potential cost savings to develop a medium-scale project. The results of the review allowed the Company to determine the optimal parameters and assumptions for the PEA.

The PEA, with an effective date of April 1, 2024, was prepared by B2Gold and evaluates recovery of gold from an open pit mining operation that will move up to approximately 97,000 tonnes per day (tpd) (35.3 Mtpa), with an approximately 16,500 tpd (6.0 Mtpa) processing plant that includes crushing, grinding, flotation, with fine grinding of the flotation concentrate and agitated leaching of the flotation concentrate followed by a carbon-in-pulp recovery process to process dore bullion. The Mineral Resource estimate for the Gramalote Project that forms the basis for the PEA includes Indicated Mineral Resources of 192.2 million tonnes grading 0.68 g/t gold for a total of 4,210,000 ounces of gold and Inferred Mineral Resources of 85.4 million tonnes grading 0.54 g/t gold for a total of 1,480,000 ounces of gold.

The PEA assumptions include revenues using a gold price of $2,200 per ounce for the first three years of production and $2,000 per ounce over the remaining Life of Project, a fuel price between the current prices and the expected post-subsidy price, and current prices for reagents, labour, power and other consumables. The key parameters of the PEA are presented in the following tables:

Table 1 - Key Parameters of the PEA

First Five Years Life of Project Production Profile Years 5.0 12.5 Ore tonnes processed (Mt) 30.0 75.0 Average gold grade processed (g/t) 1.26 1.00 Gold recovery (%) 96.2 95.9 Gold ounces produced (oz) 1,169,000 2,309,000 Average annual gold production (oz) 234,000 185,000 Operating Costs Cash operating costs1 ($/oz gold) 510 622 All-In Sustaining Costs2 ($/oz gold) 822 886 Mining cost ($/t mined) 2.25 2.40 Processing cost ($/t processed) 7.76 7.82 General & administration ($/t processed) 3.03 3.49 Capital Costs Pre-production capital ($M) 807 Sustaining capital ($M) 364

Notes:

Cash operating costs consist of mining costs, processing costs and site G&A. AISC consist of cash operating costs, royalties, corporate G&A, selling costs and silver credits and excluding pre-production capital costs.

Table 2  Pre-Production Capital Estimate

($M) Mining pre-strip 19 Tailings storage facility 28 Process plant 263 Mining equipment 93 Infrastructure (roads, platform, river diversion, camp, etc.) 177 Owners / management cost 103 Other (resettlement, general, light vehicles) 62 Subtotal 745 Contingency 63 Total 807



Table 3  Project Economics Summary

$2,200/oz (First Three Years), $2,000/oz Long-Term Gold Price After-Tax NPV 5.0% ($M) 778 IRR (%) 20.6% Payback (years) 3.1 Free cash flow ($M) 1,376

Note:

NPV 5.0% is calculated as of the start of construction expenditure.



Chart 1  Production and Cost Profile by Year





Chart 1 is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/680c2185-d513-4d95-985e-59703a8f968b





Chart 2  Free Cash Flow by Year







Chart 2 is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c36f5d82-6d51-4044-a7aa-6d1918619eaa

Based on the positive results from the PEA, B2Gold believes that the Gramalote Project has the potential to become a medium-scale, low-cost, open pit gold mine. The Gramalote Project has several key infrastructure advantages, including:

Reliable water supply  high rainfall region and located next to the Nus River

Adjacent to a national highway, which connects directly to Medellin and to a major river with port facilities, capable of bringing supplies by barge to within 70 km of the site

Skilled labour workforce within Colombia



In addition, B2Gold expects the Gramalote Project to benefit from several key operational advantages, including:

Excellent metallurgical characteristics of the ore, which results in high recovery rates at low processing costs

Relatively low strip ratio (3.3:1 strip ratio over the Life of Project)

Ability to mine and process higher-grade ore in the initial years of the mine life resulting in improved project economics



The PEA is subject to a number of assumptions and risks, including among others that a Modified Environmental Impact Study will be approved, all required permits, permit amendments and other rights will be obtained in a timely manner, the Gramalote Project will have the support of the local government and community, the regulatory environment will remain consistent, that Gramalote can operate under a single company free trade zone in Colombia, and no material increase will have occurred to the estimated costs.

The PEA is preliminary in nature and includes a small amount of Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves, and there is no certainty that the PEA based on these Mineral Resources will be realized. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Economic Sensitivities

Gramalote is a medium-scale, low operating cost project and sensitive to the gold price, as demonstrated in the following table:

Table 4  Economic Sensitivity to Long-Term Gold Price

Long-Term

Gold Price

($/oz) After-Tax NPV 5.0%

($M) After-Tax IRR

(%) $1,600 310 12.0 $1,800 544 16.5 $2,000 778 20.6 $2,200 1,012 24.4 $2,400 1,246 27.9

Note:

Gold price used in the first three years of production is $200 per ounce higher than long-term gold price in economic sensitivity analysis.



Gramalote Project Mineral Resource Estimate

The Mineral Resource estimate for the Gramalote Project has an effective date of December 31, 2023, and is reported using a gold price of $1,850.

Indicated Mineral Resource Estimate

Category Tonnes Gold Grade

(g/t) Contained Gold

Ounces Total Indicated Resources 192,220 0.68 4,210,000



Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate

Category Tonnes Gold Grade

(g/t) Contained Gold

Ounces Total Inferred Resources 85,370 0.54 1,480,000

Notes:

Mineral Resources have been classified using the CIM standards. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no guarantee that all or any part of the Mineral Resource will be converted into a Mineral Reserve. Inferred Resources are considered too geologically speculative to have mining and economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. All tonnage, grade and contained metal content estimates have been rounded; rounding may result in apparent summation difference between tonnes, grade and contained metal content. The Qualified Person for the Mineral Resource estimate is Andrew Brown, P.Geo., B2Golds Vice President, Exploration. Mineral Resources assume an open pit mining method and are reported within a conceptual pit based on a gold price of US$1,850/oz, metallurgical recovery of 81.784% for oxide and 90.9 97.6% for sulphide, selling costs of US$62.04/oz including royalties and levies, and operating cost estimates of US$2.36US$2.61/t mined (average mining cost), US$5.39US$5.47 for oxide, US$8.39US$8.49/t for sulphide processed (processing) and US$2.10/t processed (general and administrative). Mineral Resources are reported at cut-off grades of 0.16 g/t Au for oxide and 0.19 g/t Au for sulphide.

Gramalote Project Next Steps

B2Gold plans to commence feasibility work with the goal of completing a feasibility study by mid-2025. Due to the work completed for previous studies, the work remaining to finalize a feasibility study for the updated medium-scale project is not extensive. The main work programs for the feasibility study include geotechnical and environmental site investigations for the processing plant and waste dump footprints, as well as capital and operating cost estimates.

The Gramalote Project will continue to advance resettlement programs, establish coexistence programs for small miners, work on health, safety and environmental projects and continue to work with the government and local communities on social programs.

Due to the desired modifications to the processing plant and infrastructure locations, a Modified Environment Impact Study is required. B2Gold has commenced work on the modifications to the Environment Impact Study and expect it to be completed and submitted shortly following the completion of the feasibility study. If the final economics of the feasibility study are positive and B2Gold makes the decision to develop the Gramalote Project as an open pit gold mine, B2Gold would utilize its proven internal mine construction team to build the mine and mill facilities.

About B2Gold



B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines, the Goose Project under construction in northern Canada and numerous development and exploration projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia and Finland. B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 860,000 and 940,000 ounces in 2024.

Qualified Persons

Bill Lytle, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information related to operations matters contained in this news release.

Andrew Brown, P. Geo., Vice President, Exploration, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information related to exploration and mineral resource matters contained in this news release.

ON BEHALF OF B2GOLD CORP.

Clive T. Johnson

President and Chief Executive Officer

The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.



Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 14, 2024, for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance in 2024; projected gold production, cash operating costs and AISC on a consolidated and mine by mine basis in 2024; total consolidated gold production of between 860,000 and 940,000 ounces (including 40,000 to 50,000 attributable ounces from Calibre Mining Corp. (Calibre)) in 2024; the results and estimates in the Gramalote PEA, including the project life, average annual gold production, total gold production, processing rate, capital cost, net present value, after-tax net cash flow and payback; the potential to convert existing inferred resources to the indicated category; the timing to complete a feasibility study on the Gramalote Project; the completion and results of a feasibility study on the Gramalote Project; receipt of a final approved Modified Environment Impact Study; the potential to develop the Gramalote Project as an open pit gold mine; and B2Gold's attributable share of Calibre's production. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.

Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines and Colombia and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements.

B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.

B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

Non-IFRS Measures

This news release includes certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), including "cash operating costs" and "all-in sustaining costs" (or "AISC"). Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with B2Gold's consolidated financial statements. Readers should refer to B2Gold's Management Discussion and Analysis, available on the Websites, under the heading "Non-IFRS Measures" for a more detailed discussion of how B2Gold calculates certain of such measures and a reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms.
NEW ORLEANS, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC (KSF) and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until August 5, 2024 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (NYSE: SMG), if they purchased the Companys shares between November 3, 2021 and August 1, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio.



What You May Do

If you purchased shares of Scotts 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-smg/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by August 5, 2024 .

About the Lawsuit

Scotts and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.

On August 2, 2023, the Company disclosed disappointing financial results including a decline in quarterly sales for fiscal third quarter of 6%, a decline in gross margin by 420 basis points, as well as a cut to fiscal year EBITDA guidance by a staggering 25% and a $20 million write down of pandemic driven excess inventories.

On this news, the price of Scotts shares fell by $13.58 per share, or 19%, from a closing price of $71.44 per share on August 1, 2023, to a closing price of $57.86 per share on August 2, 2023.

The case is City of Hialeah Employees Retirement System v. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, No. 24-cv-03132.

About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC

KSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nations 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:
Dublin, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "China Telecoms Market Report - Telecoms, Mobile and Broadband - Statistics and Analyses" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



China telecom market resurgence expected to follow the long-awaited easing of COVID-19 lockdowns



Housing the world's largest population, China is also home to the world's largest telecoms markets for fixed-line telephony, VoIP telephony, and mobile and at least in terms of the total number of subscribers. Penetration rates in each segment are more modest, however, and therefore there is still significant opportunity for further growth.



China has three integrated telcos and China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom and which provide a semblance of competition across the vast market. But the country's telecoms sector is perhaps best characterised by the dominant role the central government plays in planning where to invest in infrastructure as well as in research to keep China at the forefront of the industry. Despite the challenges in Western markets faced by China's major telecom equipment manufacturers (Huawei and ZTE) as well as the offshore subsidiaries of its telcos, China is already working on the development of 6G with the goal of securing lucrative patents as well as influencing the coming standards process.



China Mobile dominates the mobile market with 58% market share, although that has been slowly declining over the years as China Telecom has started to pick up the pace. The latter is also performing well in the fast-growing fixed broadband market, to the point where that segment produces twice as much revenue for the telco as does mobile broadband. With fixed broadband penetration doubling in the last seven years to reach 39% in 2022, China now also has the largest number of broadband connections in the world.

The vast majority of these are fibre as a result of aggressive deployment programs by both China Telecom and China Unicom in a bid to offset the decline in the number of fixed-line telephony subscribers. Such is the success of their initiatives that fixed-line teledensity has stabilised at 12.7%, and the fixed segment's share of overall telecom sector revenue has actually increased during the last decade to more than one third of the total.



In the mobile segment, growth has been on a much slower trajectory of late, partly due to the relative maturity and saturation of the market in some areas, but also because of the COVID-19 crisis putting a heavy brake on the mobile broadband market in particular. Renewed growth is likely to occur following the easing of lockdowns that will allow greater mobility outside of the home, as well as the wider promotion of 5G handsets and services as the telcos continue with their rollout plans.



This report update includes telcos operating data and CAICT industry data to March 2022; Telecom Maturity Index charts and analyses; an assessment of the global impact of COVID-19 on the telecoms sector; and other recent market developments.



Key Developments:

China Telecom Americas and China Unicom Americas both forced by the FCC to shut operations down in the US on the back of security concerns.

The 15,000km Peace cable linking China to Europe and Africa lands in Kenya.

Dr Peng Group, the majority-owner of the US-Hong Kong undersea cable venture, announces its withdrawal from the project, after the DoJ denies authorisation.

GalaxySpace launches the first of China's proposed ~mega-constellation of LEO satellites.

Key companies mentioned in this report:

China Mobile

China Telecom

China Unicom

China Broadcasting Network

China Tower

CITIC Networks

GalaxySpace

China Satcom

China Direct Broadcast Satellite

Key Topics Covered:

Key statistics

Regional Asia market comparison

Market characteristics

Market Leaders

Market Challengers

Market Emergents

TMI vs GDP

Mobile and mobile broadband penetration

Fixed versus mobile broadband penetration

COVID-19 and its impact on the telecom sector

Economic considerations and responses

Subscribers

Infrastructure

Telecommunications market

Regulatory environment

Regulatory authority

Ministry of Information Industry (MII)

Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT)

China Internet Network Information Centre (CNNIC)

Government policies

Private investment in state-controlled industries

Broadband China

Fixed-line developments

Licensing

Interconnect

Universal Service Obligation (USO)

Mobile network developments

Licensing

Mobile Number Portability (MNP)

Roaming

Mobile market

Mobile broadband

Mobile infrastructure

6G

5G

4G/LTE

3G

GSM

Major mobile operators

China Mobile

China Telecom

China Unicom

MVNOs

Fixed-line broadband market

Fibre-to-the-Premises (FttP) networks

China Telecom

China Unicom

China Mobile

Hybrid Fibre Coax (HFC) networks

Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) networks

Fixed wireless

Digital economy

Fixed network market

Major network operators

China Telecom

China Unicom

China Mobile

Telecommunications infrastructure

National telecom network

China Tower

CITIC Networks

International infrastructure

Terrestrial and submarine cable infrastructure

Satellite infrastructure

IoT

Glossary of abbreviations

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/8yzi1y

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.
Selbyville, Delaware, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --



Dishwasher Market size is estimated to be valued at over USD 6.6 billion by the end of 2032. The industry growth is driven by the increasing consumer awareness and strong demand for convenience.

Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/8471

As busy lifestyles are prevalent, especially among urban dwellers, the need for time-saving household appliances, has surged. Consumers are recognizing the benefits of passive washing to save time and reduce daily chores, making dishwashers an attractive addition to the modern kitchen. Higher disposable incomes in many areas is also allowing more households to afford these devices.

Technological advancements and innovations will also influence the market progression. For instance, in July 2023, Bosch Home Appliances unveiled a major update to its dishwasher line by introducing the innovative PowerControl spray arm technology in 800 and Benchmark Series models, along with other new features. Modern dishwashers deployed with energy-efficient features, intelligent technology integration and advanced functionality are appealing to both environmentally conscious consumers and tech-savvy individuals. With the rising popularity of features like water conservation, noise reduction, and connectivity, manufacturers are constantly improving products to meet the needs of different customers, further stimulating the industry gains.

Rising adoption of integrated dishwashers

Based on product type, the dishwasher market from the integrated/ built-in segment is slated to witness decent growth between 2024 and 2032 due to its rising appeal among modern homeowners and remodelers who demand simple kitchen designs. Built-in dishwashers provide a stylish, unobtrusive look that matches modern aesthetic tastes, blends with dishwashers, and creates a cohesive, smooth look. The built-in section features advanced functions and customization options for meeting the growing demand for high-performance, bespoke kitchen solutions. As more consumers prioritize functionality and style in their home development, the popularity of integrated dishwashers will continue to grow.

Smart dishwashers to gain traction

Dishwasher market from the smart dishwasher technology segment is projected to witness lucrative expansion between 2024 to 2032 attributed to innovative features that enhance user convenience, efficiency, and connectivity. With built-in Wi-Fi and app-based controls, smart dishwashers allow users to operate and manage their devices remotely, fostering a smart home ecosystem. These devices are also incorporated with advanced functionalities, such as energy consumption management, cycle optimization, and integration of voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to provide a better user experience.

Asia Pacific to emerge as a lucrative market

Asia Pacific dishwasher market is estimated to attain substantial valuation by 2032 attributed to the rapid urbanization and the burgeoning middle class with increasing disposable incomes. Rising adoption of modern appliances as consumers are seeking convenience in daily tasks will drive the product uptake in the region. The expansion of retail sector and the proliferation of e-commerce platforms are making dishwashers accessible to more people. Cultural shifts in smaller families and dual-income households in countries, such as China, India and Southeast Asia are contributing to the demand for time-saving home appliances, adding to the regional industry expansion.

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Dishwasher Market Participants

Some of the prominent dishwasher industry players include Voltas, Electrolux AB, Hindware Home Innovation Limited, LG Electronics, IFB Appliances, Haier, Dacor, Inc., Whirlpool Corporation, Godrej, Miele, Meiko, Robert Bosch GmbH, Samsung, Panasonic, and The Smeg Group.

These firms are working on new product developments, acquisitions, and mergers to widen their product portfolio. For instance, in November 2023, Whirlpool launched a new third-load dishwasher that adds integrated sprinklers.

Partial Table of Contents (ToC) of the report:

Chapter 2 Executive Summary

2.1 Industrial valve industry 3600 synopsis

Chapter 3 Market Industry Insights

3.1 Industry ecosystem analysis

3.1.1 Factor affecting the value chain

3.1.2 Profit margin analysis

3.1.3 Disruptions

3.1.4 Future outlook

3.1.5 Manufacturers

3.1.6 Distributors

3.1.7 Retailers

3.2 Raw material analysis

3.3 Regulatory landscape

3.4 Industry impact forces

3.4.1 Growth drivers

3.4.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges

3.5 Growth potential analysis

3.6 Consumer buying behavior analysis

3.6.1 Demographic trends

3.6.2 Factors affecting buying decision

3.6.3 Consumer product adoption

3.6.4 Preferred distribution channel

3.6.5 Preferred price range

3.7 Porters analysis

3.8 PESTEL analysis

Chapter 4 Competitive Landscape, 2023

4.1 Company market share analysis

4.2 Competitive positioning matrix

4.3 Strategic outlook matrix

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About Global Market Insights

Global Market Insights Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider, offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy, and biotechnology.
The annual general meeting (the "AGM") of Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA ("EMGS" or the "Company") was held today, 19 June 2024 at 11:00 CEST.

All items were resolved in accordance with the board of directors' proposals and the Nomination Committee's recommendations.

The minutes of meeting from the AGM are attached hereto.



Contact

Anders Eimstad, Chief Financial Officer, +47 948 25 836



About EMGS

EMGS, the marine EM market leader, uses its proprietary electromagnetic (EM) technology to support oil and gas companies in their search for offshore hydrocarbons. EMGS supports each stage in the workflow, from survey design and data acquisition to processing and interpretation. The Company's services enable the integration of EM data with seismic and other geophysical and geological information to give explorationists a clearer and more complete understanding of the subsurface. This improves exploration efficiency and reduces risks and the finding costs per barrel. CSEM technology can also be used to detect the presence of marine mineral deposits (primarily Seabed Massive Sulphides) and EMGS believes that the technology can also be used to estimate the mineral content of such deposits. The Company is undertaking early-stage initiatives to position itself in this future market.



This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

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LONGUEUIL, Quebec, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Azimut Exploration Inc. (Azimut or the Company) (TSXV: AZM) (OTCQX: AZMTF) is pleased to report excellent new lithium results from the second phase of diamond drilling on the Galinee Property (the Property) in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada.



Fourteen (14) holes were drilled during this second phase, for a total of 3,203.65 metres, including two extended holes (GAL23-012ext and -013ext) and two that were abandoned (GAL24-019 and -027). The visual results from this phase were previously reported in the press releases of April 18 and May 8, 2024, as were the analytical results for one hole (GAL24-020: 2.68% Li 2 O over 54.6 m). All assays have now been received and are reported in this release.

The results of this campaign confirm a wide and high-grade lithium zone on the Property, which now appears to be one of the most significant lithium pegmatite discoveries in the James Bay region. Drilling will continue this summer. A comprehensive property-scale till sampling and prospecting program is underway to identify additional drilling targets. Azimut and its partner SOQUEM Inc. have ranked the Galinee Property as one of their top priorities for 2024. Azimut is the operator of the work program.

HIGHLIGHTS (see Figures 1 to 6, Tables 1 and 2)

 Hole GAL24-018: 1.66% Li 2 O over 40.45 m (from 159.6 m to 200.05 m), including: 2.61% Li 2 O over 21.60 m (167.1 m to 188.7 m) 0.95% Li 2 O over 14.40 m (209.0 m to 223.4 m)



 Hole GAL24-022: 2.53% Li 2 O over 25.90 m (from 135.1 m to 161.0 m), including: 3.16% Li 2 O over 19.75 m (135.1 m to 154.85 m)



 Hole GAL24-023: 2.02% Li 2 O over 32.23 m (from 104.77 m to 137.0 m), including: 3.28% Li 2 O over 6.73 m (130.27 m to 137.0 m)



 Hole GAL24-025: 1.62% Li 2 O over 158.0 m (from 207.85 m to 365.85 m), including: 2.20% Li 2 O over 89.65 m (207.85 m to 297.5 m), including: 3.33% Li 2 O over 29.6 m (267.9 m to 297.5 m)



 Hole GAL24-027A:



2.50% Li 2 O over 7.50 m (from 183.0 m to 190.5 m)



 Hole GAL23-12ext: 2.00% Li 2 O over 13.05 m (from 355.7 m to 368.75 m) 1.44% Li 2 O over 4.10 m (from 377.5 m to 381.6 m) 2.43% Li 2 O over 1.15 m (from 386.85 m to 388.0 m)



The true widths of the drill intervals are undetermined at this stage. Holes GAL 23-013ext, GAL24-019A, -021, -024 and -026 display weak or no mineralization. Holes GAL24-019 and -027 were abandoned due to drilling difficulties. Several intervals of visually confirmed mineralization containing amphibolite intercalations were reported in the press release of April 18, 2024 (holes GAL24-18, -20, -22 to -25). Hole -25 presents a 17.45-metre-long intercalation that is weakly mineralized (from 300.0 to 317.45 m).

The previously reported significant assays from drilling phases 1 and 2 include:

 Hole GAL23-001 2.48% Li 2 O over 72.7 m (from 139.5 m to 212.2 m), including: 3.38% Li 2 O over 18.0 m (174.0 m to 192.0 m) and 3.27% Li 2 O over 12.7 m (199.5 m to 212.2 m) 1.30% Li 2 O over 7.0 m (from 323.4 m to 330.4 m)



 Hole GAL23-003: 1.56% Li 2 O over 36.6 m (from 194.4 m to 231.0 m), including: 2.41% Li 2 O over 21.2 m (195.5 m to 216.7 m)



 Hole GAL23-009: 2.13% Li 2 O over 44.1 m (from 120.3 m to 164.4 m), including: 3.35% Li 2 O over 13.0 m (150.4 m to 163.4 m) 1.13% Li 2 O over 16.5 m (from 346.5 m to 363.0 m), including: 1.69% Li 2 O over 9.2 m (346.5 m to 355.7 m)



 Hole GAL23-011: 1.71% Li 2 O over 37.0 m (from 209.0 m to 246.0 m), including: 2.95% Li 2 O over 15.0 m (212.0 m - 227.0 m), including: 5.13% Li 2 O over 6.0 m (216.5 m to 222.5 m)



 Hole GAL23-012: 1.31% Li 2 O over 41.3 m (from 188.0 m to 229.3 m), including: 2.68% Li 2 O over 4.5 m (189.5 m to 194.0 m) and 2.75% Li 2 O over 12.7 m (210.6 m to 223.3 m)



 Hole GAL23-014: 1.63% Li 2 O over 17.5 m (from 233.0 m to 250.5 m), including: 2.56% Li 2 O over 5.2 m (233.0 m to 238.2 m)



 Hole GAL24-020: 2.68% Li 2 O over 54.60 m (from 89.25 m to 143.85 m), including: 2.26% Li 2 O over 8.50 m (89.25 m to 97.75 m) and 3.48% Li 2 O over 35.85 m (108.0 m to 143.85 m)



Material Progress for the Galinee Discovery

Currently, the lithium zone has a strike length of 700 metres and trends roughly east-west. It remains largely open on the Property to the east and south, with the thickness and grade variabilities expected for these types of pegmatitic bodies. The mineralized zone at Galinee likely represents the southern extension of the Adina deposit on the adjacent project belonging to Winsome Resources Ltd. Figure 2 displays the limits of the pit shell constraining the resources disclosed by Winsome in their press release of May 28, 2024.

At Galinee, one of the potential mining scenarios could involve constructing a ramp to access the mineralized body, given the subhorizontal geometry of the pegmatite body at a relatively shallow depth. Initial drilling data indicate a shallow dip to the south, from subhorizontal to 15 degrees. Additional intercepts from the current program show that some pegmatite bodies dip to the north, suggesting that the pegmatite system consists of coalescing branches with variable dips. Hole GAL24-020 intersected at least one of the north-dipping branches at shallow depth, returning very high-grade lithium intervals starting at a vertical depth of 80 metres (see Figure 5).

Spodumene crystals generally range from a few centimetres to half a metre long but occasionally reach gigantic sizes (up to 1.65 m). The colour ranges from whitish to greyish-beige or greenish-beige. Other associated minerals include quartz, white feldspar, tourmaline and, less frequently, garnet, apatite, lepidolite, tantalite and maybe pollucite. Holmquistite, a typical lithium-bearing amphibole formed at the margins of lithium-rich pegmatites, is also observed. Dark green amphibolite is the dominant host rock.

Significant grades have also been obtained for the following critical elements: cesium, tantalum, gallium and rubidium. Peak values of 3.59% Cs 2 O, 1410 ppm Ta 2 O 5 , 333 ppm Ga 2 O 3 , and 2.17% Rb 2 O are noted.

SGS Canada (Lakefield, Ontario) has been retained to conduct preliminary metallurgical tests on the mineralization.



Property-scale Exploration

Azimut and SOQUEM consider Galinees lithium potential to be largely underexplored. A comprehensive prospecting phase is underway to identify drill targets in highly prospective areas with a cumulative length of 60 kilometres.

The region is widely considered an emerging lithium district. Winsome Resources Ltd published a mineral resource estimate for the Adina Property, and other companies are rapidly advancing prospects on surrounding properties (see Azimut press releases of June 13 and October 23, 2023; January 9 and February 23, 2024).

Drilling Contract and Analytical Protocols

Miikan Drilling Inc., a majority Cree-owned company, has been contracted for the current program. Miikan Drilling is owned by local communities and Chibougamau Diamond Drilling Ltd of Chibougamau (Quebec). Drilling is conducted with a core diameter of BTW.

Core samples are sent to ALS Laboratories in Montreal (Quebec) for ICP multi-element analysis (laboratory codes: ME-MS61, ME-MS89L, ME-ICP82b). Azimut applies industry-standard QA/QC procedures to its drilling programs. All batches sent for analysis include certified reference materials, blanks and field duplicates.

About the Galinee Property

The Galinee project (649 claims, 335 km2) is a 50/50 joint venture between Azimut and SOQUEM, operated by Azimut. The 36-kilometre-long property lies about 50 kilometres north-northwest of the Renard diamond mine (Stornoway Diamonds (Canada) Inc.) and 60 kilometres south of the Trans-Taiga Road, an all-season regional highway.

Qualified Person

Dr. Jean-Marc Lulin (P.Geo.) prepared this press release as the Companys qualified person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101. Rock Lefrancois (P.Geo.), Vice President of Exploration, also reviewed the content of this press release.

About SOQUEM

SOQUEM Inc., a subsidiary of Investissement Quebec, is dedicated to promoting the exploration, discovery and development of mining properties in Quebec. SOQUEM also contributes to maintaining strong local economies. A proud partner and ambassador for developing the provinces mineral wealth, SOQUEM relies on innovation, research, and strategic minerals to be well-positioned for the future.

About Azimut

Azimut is a leading mineral exploration company with a solid reputation for target generation and partnership development. The Company holds the largest mineral exploration portfolio in Quebec. Its wholly owned flagship project, the Elmer Gold Project, has advanced to the resource stage with a strong exploration upside. Azimut also advances the Galinee Lithium Project, a significant discovery made in JV with SOQUEM. The Company controls strategic land positions for copper-gold, nickel and lithium in Quebec.

Azimut uses a pioneering approach to big data analytics (the proprietary AZtechMine expert system) enhanced by extensive exploration know-how. The Companys competitive edge is based on systematic regional-scale data analysis. Azimut maintains rigorous financial discipline and a strong balance sheet, with 85.4 million shares issued and outstanding.

Contact and Information

Jean-Marc Lulin, President and CEO

Tel.: (450) 646-3015

Jonathan Rosset, Vice President Corporate Development

Tel: (604) 202-7531

info@azimut-exploration.com www.azimut-exploration.com

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Companys current expectations regarding future events related to the drilling results from the Galinee Property. To the extent that any statements in this press release contain information that is not historical, the statements are essentially forward-looking and are often identified by words such as consider, anticipate, expect, estimate, intend, project, plan, potential, suggest and believe. The forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Many factors could cause such differences, particularly volatility and sensitivity to market metal prices, the impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, imprecision in reserve estimates, recoveries of gold and other metals, environmental risks including increased regulatory burdens, unexpected geological conditions, adverse mining conditions, community and non-governmental organization actions, changes in government regulations and policies, including laws and policies, global outbreaks of infectious diseases, including COVID-19, and failure to obtain necessary permits and approvals from government authorities, as well as other development and operating risks. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this document. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required to do so by applicable securities laws. The reader is directed to carefully review the detailed risk discussion in our most recent Annual Report filed on SEDAR+ for a fuller understanding of the risks and uncertainties that affect the Companys business.

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.
Toronto, ON, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tether, a leading name in the Canadian cannabis industry, is thrilled to announce its third-anniversary celebration, marking this milestone with its biggest sampling event to date, in collaboration with StratCanns respected Growing Relationships thought-leader event series. Set for Tuesday, August 20th, 2024, in the epicentre of cannabis advocacy, Ottawa, ON, the events will connect Licensed Producers, cannabis brands, retail decision-makers, and Budtenders from across the province for a days worth of B2B networking and education.





Tethers Ottawa Sampling Event will run from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Preston Event Centre. This extended 3-hour format is designed to accommodate over 35 brands and 400 attendees, anticipating more than 200 Budtenders and retailers eligible for educational product sampling. Earlier in the day, StratCanns Growing Relationships event will take place from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, offering industry professionals the chance to engage in high-level conversations and build relevant business relationships. The dual events provide cannabis companies the opportunity to connect, promote, and educate and provide Budtenders and retailers with the necessary education and tools to succeed as frontlines of the cannabis industry.





StratCann is thrilled to once again partner with Tether as we unite our unique industry events and help bring the community together in Ontario, says David Brown, StratCanns Co-founder. Whats special is that these events are designed to benefit the entire industry and facilitate important discussions. Were excited to create a full day for industry participants with a focus on the regions independent cannabis brands and businesses. Following the success of its sold-out 2023 Growing Relationships series, StratCann will bring Ontario opportunities for conversation, innovation, and collaboration with a tailored audience, including its roundtable discussion component focused on current industry issues affecting various stakeholders.





In just three years, Tether has partnered with over 80 brands across Canada and evolved into a vibrant community of over 5,000 Budtenders. Tethers deep understanding of the cannabis community has allowed the organization to provide partnering brands with impactful opportunities to engage Budtenders in key markets with custom packages tailored to meet each business's unique needs. Through insights and influence, Tether fosters meaningful connections between brands and Budtenders through engagements such as sampling events, retail store visits, direct mail campaigns, virtual sessions, and custom B2B marketing solutions.





Ottawa promises to be our most attended event to date, building on the success of eight previous sold-out Tether events across Canada. The collaboration between Tether and StratCann provides a unique opportunity for daytime networking with Licensed Producers, retail decision-makers, and ancillary services followed by Tethers popular Budtender and retailer sampling and networking in the evening, says Katie Pringle, CEO and Co-founder of Tether. We are offering cant-miss engagement for the cannabis industry.





Tethers Ottawa Sampling Event will include beloved cannabis brands like Back Forty, Bud Lafleur, DayDay CBG, Endgame, EVEN, Frank CBD, Frooty Hooty, Glacial Gold, Good Supply, HAZO, Kinloch Wellness, Lune Rise Farms, NightNight CBN, Red Market Brand, Stewart Farms, West Coast Gifts, Wyld, and XAMAN, with product sampling reserved for Budtenders and retailers. To increase the presence and participation of Ontario-based Black, Indigenous, and people of colour-owned brands and Licensed Producers, Tether is proud to partner with the Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS) for five sponsored equity grants. For details on eligibility criteria, please see the application form here.





Attendance at Tethers Ottawa Sampling Event and StratCanns Growing Relationships is strictly limited to those aged 19+. Please note that there will be on-site filming and photography during both events. Pre-registration is required and all sales are final.



For more information and to register for Tethers Ottawa Sampling Event, visit here or www.tetherbuds.com/events. For more information and to register for StratCanns Growing Relationships, visit here or stratcann.com/events.





About Tether

Tether is Canada's Budtender community, connecting cannabis brands with a network of over 5,000 Budtenders from across the country. By providing Budtenders with the necessary education and resources to succeed and providing brands with a cost-effective way to connect, promote and educate, Tether paves the way for a stronger community and a brighter future for the industry. To learn more, visit https://tetherbuds.com/.





About StratCann

Founded in 2020 by David Brown, StratCann delivers relevant news, industry insights, and unique events covering the dynamic landscape of the legal cannabis industry, from influential individuals to policies and regulations. StratCanns dedicated platform caters to a diverse audience of industry leaders, license holders, producers, laboratories, retailers, policymakers, and esteemed professionals. For more information, visit https://stratcann.com/.

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Dublin, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "US Management Consulting Services - Market Share Analysis, Industry Trends & Statistics, Growth Forecasts 2019 - 2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The US Management Consulting Services Market size is estimated at USD 59.03 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 82.28 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 6.87% during the forecast period (2024-2029).

With the highly dynamic nature of several industries and markets, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, companies prefer to consult management consulting firms for a deeper and more assured insight into the markets and other purposes to ensure well-thought-out and data-backed decisions.

Management consulting firms provide services that help organizations improve their efficiency. The firms analyze the operations and understand the existing organizational inefficiencies, ranging from the high cost of raw materials to HR policies in the organization. The firm uses its expertise to develop a plan to tackle all the issues in the best possible way. With growing competition in the market in various industries, profit margins are shrinking, and one of the best ways to improve profits is through increasing organizational performance.

Companies in the United States are using management consulting services because they want to cut down on operational costs and make their operations run better. The United States has the highest business intensity in the world. The country benefits from the size of its economy and the fact that most of the largest global consultancies are headquartered there, including McKinsey, BCG, and Bain, and three of the "Big Four" companies, including Deloitte, EY, and PWC.

The "new" generation of market research firms has grown in prominence in the last decade. One of the major factors is that management consulting firms are becoming increasingly expensive to partner with. The growth of "new" research firms and the availability of various databases have resulted in the rise of business analytics tools. Businesses can now collect important and actionable data at a fraction of the cost that management consulting firms would charge. This could act as a huge disrupter in the management consulting market.

However, management consultancies still have their niche, as the majority of Fortune 500 companies would still prefer partnering with a management consulting firm over a market research firm, citing credibility and the fact that these firms act as a one-stop destination for all their consulting needs, ranging from strategy consulting to legal consulting. Various factors hamper the growth of the management consulting market in the United States, such as cyberattacks and data breaches.

US Management Consulting Services Market Trends



Strategy Consulting Segment is Expected to Drive the Market Demand

Strategic consulting refers to forming enterprise- and business-wide strategies and goals. Corporate strategy, business model transformation, economic policy, mergers and acquisitions, organizational strategy, functional strategy, strategy and operations, and so on are examples of these services.

The growth of strategy as a function is forcing enterprises to develop their internal strategy teams. These teams heavily rely on consulting services and an array of offerings. Some large-market vendors have started offering data-driven strategy services, promoting asset-based consulting models.

The research sector, including market and economic research, is rapidly growing, and businesses across many industries are increasing their investment in R&D to make better strategic decisions. This will drive significant growth in the market for strategy consulting services, reflecting how client organizations respond to the prospect of recovery by rethinking their business models, particularly in scenarios such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Strategy consultants assist companies in formulating and executing their business strategies. They provide expertise in market analysis, competitive intelligence, and strategic planning, helping organizations identify opportunities, assess risks, and develop long-term plans to achieve their objectives.

The United States has a robust M&A market, and companies often seek strategy consultants to support them in M&A transactions. Consultants assist with due diligence, integration planning, synergy assessment, and post-merger integration, ensuring a smooth transition and maximizing the value of the deal.

The number of management consultants in the United States has grown over the past few years. In the year 2022, the number of employees in management consulting firms reached 8,08,860, which was 40,140 more than the previous year, registering strong growth in the studied market.

Healthcare Drives the Market Growth

A healthcare consulting firm operates as a contracted third-party consultant for businesses operating in the healthcare sector. Every healthcare institution could employ one of these advisory firms to enhance organizational competency, including healthcare providers such as hospitals, doctor's offices, pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment companies, and others.

The healthcare consulting firm helps in optimizing efficiency, making structural improvements, and generating revenue. This can take many forms, with various specializations growing within the healthcare consulting sector.

Healthcare plays a significant role in driving the growth of the management consulting services market in the United States. The healthcare industry is complex, rapidly evolving, and highly regulated, which creates a demand for specialized expertise to navigate its challenges effectively.

Management consulting services provide valuable insights, strategic guidance, and operational support to healthcare organizations, including hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, insurers, and government agencies.

The healthcare industry faces numerous regulations and compliance requirements, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and the Affordable Care Act. Management consultants help healthcare organizations understand and adhere to these regulations, minimizing risks and ensuring compliance.

Healthcare organizations often require strategic guidance to adapt to changing market dynamics, identify growth opportunities, and expand their services. Management consultants provide market research, competitive analysis, and strategic planning to help healthcare organizations make informed decisions and seize growth opportunities.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Adoption Of Advanced Data Management Strategies

Growing Investment In Analytical Solutions is Surging Companies Growth

Market Restraints

Project Complexities and Shift In Consulting Marketplace

Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis

Insights on Current Trends and Innovations in the Market

Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

Company Profiles

Deloitte

EY

KPMG

PwC

McKinsey

Boston Consulting Group

A.T Kearney

Booz Allen Hamilton

Bain & Company

Accenture Strategy

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/anirxd

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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Atlanta, GA, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aqua-Tots Swim School, the largest international swim school franchise, is thrilled to share that its newest facility is now open in Forsyth County, Georgia. Sitting at 850 Peachtree Pkwy, Cumming, this central location will serve the families of Cumming, Buford, Big Creek, Sugar Hill, Coal Mountain, Lathemtown, Dunn, Free Home and the surrounding communities.

Aqua-Tots Swim Schools trusted program has been parent-approved for over 30 years and is used in franchises around the world to create safe and confident lifelong swimmers. The company is dedicated to putting safety first and fun every second into every lesson. Parents can choose from class sizes of one, two or four students to suit their childs needs. Aqua-Tots also understands that each child is unique and may need accommodations. The brand makes accessibility a priority by offering adaptive and Fast Track lessons to ensure the right fit for every skill level.

Owners Tommy Fisher, Jesse Rhodenbaugh and Andrew George are looking forward to introducing Aqua-Tots world-renowned curriculum to Forsyth County families. Our school is surrounded by small lakes and creeks. Its less than 20 minutes away from Lake Lanier, says General Manager Kyra Browder. With drowning being the number one cause of death for children ages one to four, the best way we can protect our kids is by teaching them how to swim. Aqua-Tots offers a safe and positive environment where children as young as four months old can start to learn these essential, life-saving skills.

The new, 5,600-square-foot location hosts a 50-foot-long pool, 12 swimming zones and several changing rooms equipped with baby changing tables. In the comfy red chairs of the lobbys glass viewing area, parents can sit back, relax and enjoy a much-needed 30-minute break while they observe their children's swim lessons.

Families are free to walk in during business hours to learn more about the program and receive a tour of the school from the team. Follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for more details.

To schedule your first swim lesson or learn more about classes at Aqua-Tots Forsyth County, please visit aqua-tots.com/forsyth-county/, email forsythcountyinfo@aqua-tots.com or call (470) 239-5948.

About Aqua-Tots Swim School

Founded in 1991 and headquartered in the Phoenix area, Aqua-Tots Swim School is making waves as the largest international provider of year-round, indoor swim instruction, community outreach and drowning prevention education. Its trusted program is dedicated to children of all abilities from four months to 12 years old and features a proven curriculum used to teach more than five million swim lessons each year.

Aqua-Tots is recognized in Franchise Business Reviews Top 100 Franchises for Women in 2024, Entrepreneur's Top 15 Childrens Franchises of 2023, Entrepreneurs Franchise 500, Inc. Magazine's Top 5000 and Franchise Times Top 200. Aqua-Tots has more than 155 locations in 25 states across 14 countries and is rapidly expanding with 90 locations in development. To learn more about franchise opportunities, visit aqua-tots.com/franchise-development and for more information about Aqua-Tots or to sign up for lessons near you, visit aqua-tots.com and follow Aqua-Tots on Facebook and Instagram.

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TORONTO, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The travel industry is experiencing a revival as summer travel numbers surge to pre-pandemic levels. Canadians are eager to embark on summer adventures, explore new destinations, and make the most of the warm season. However, the expenses associated with travel remain steep, and the unfortunate reality of airline delays, cancellations, and other travel issues persists.

In the current economic climate, taking chances with your hard-earned vacation, which likely required significant saving and planning, is not advisable. And many Canadians rely solely on their credit card provider for travel insurance, unaware of the potential risks. So, the experts at InsureMyTrip.ca are highlighting the pitfalls of depending on credit cards and Canadian government health coverage while journeying abroad  while offering advice on how to protect yourself fully while staying on budget.

Understand Credit Card Travel Insurance Limitations

The extent of coverage depends on the specific card, and it may fall short. Credit card coverage is often restricted to expenses directly paid for with that card and may only address fundamental issues that could arise before or during your journey.

Even if your credit card offers trip protection, it may not be the level of protection you would expect. Its important to carefully read the credit card travel insurance documents to understand limits, special conditions, and restrictions. Also, credit cards often have lower limits than a robust third-party travel insurance plan.

Canadian Government Health Insurance Plan Shortcomings

Just as relying on your credit card for travel insurance can lead to surprises, assuming your province-wide or Canadian medical coverage will suffice while travelling abroad can become a costly and frustrating oversight.

You Canadian Health Insurance Plans will likely not cover you for medical expenses while youre travelling abroad and may be limited when travelling outside your province. If you become unexpectedly injured or ill while travelling out of Canada, you will have to pay for those medical bills out of pocket, unless you have travel medical insurance. You will likely find the limits on travel medical coverage are often lower through a credit card than through a third-party, like InsureMyTrip.

All-Inclusive Insurance Benefits

All-inclusive travel insurance plans offer coverage for emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation, baggage and baggage delay, and trip interruption and trip cancellation, all under one policy.

As with any purchase, its important to shop around and compare, explains InsureMyTrip CEO Suzanne Morrow. InsureMyTrip allows travellers to comparison shop for providers and policies to find the best one for them and their trip at a price within their budget. All-inclusive plans offer the most bang for your buck.

A third-party plan like InsureMyTrip can also include cancel for any reason benefits, allowing more flexibility if you must cancel your trip for a reason other than a covered one. This benefit typically reimburses up to 50% of the covered trip cost, allowing you to recoup a good portion of your trip cost if you decide not to travel.

Key Points

Relying only on credit card benefits or local health insurance while travelling internationally can expose you to unforeseen costs and restrictions. So, its important to do your homework. Be aware of what your credit card or health plan does and does not cover and compare that with a third-party plan like those offered through InsureMyTrip.

Knowing you chose the right coverage for you and your much-anticipated holiday can help provide security and peace of mind.

Media Contact:

Meghan Kayata

Press@insuremytrip.ca



About InsureMyTrip

You like options. We do too. InsureMyTrip finds you the right travel insurance plan, every time. We are committed to empowering travellers to make the best possible insurance decisions by leveraging our technology, data intelligence, and expertise. InsureMyTrip is based in the U.S. with an office in Toronto.

Not available to Quebec residents.




TEMECULA, Calif., June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group, part of Nikkiso Co. Ltd.s Industrial division, announced that after its most recent award by SK Plug Hyverse, the Group has contracts to build and maintain approximately two dozen liquid-based hydrogen (LH2) fueling stations in South Korea.



As more buses and heavy-duty trucks look to lower carbon emissions while keeping long-distance driving capabilities, many fleet operators, transit authorities, and agencies are looking to liquid hydrogen as a solution for quick-fills and long-distance routes. Nikkisos experience developing and manufacturing cryogenic pumps for more than 70 years and alternative fuels fueling stations for 26 years is attracting companies like SK Plug Hyverse that want capable partners to help grow South Koreas hydrogen infrastructure and economy.

SK Plug Hyverse is a tremendous partner for Nikkiso in South Korea because together we bring exceptional capabilities and people to support South Koreas progressive approach to establishing a competitive hydrogen economy, said Peter Wagner, CEO, Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases. Nikkiso admires South Koreas productive and pragmatic approach to scaling up the hydrogen economy, and we look forward to further opportunities supporting its efforts.

There arent many companies that have Nikkisos vertically integrated fueling station with in-house liquification systems and trailer loading systems, cryogenic pumps, vacuum insulated pipe, vacuum insulated vessels, cryogenic vaporizer, industrial controls, permitting, installation, and maintenance services, said Mike Mackey, President, Fueling & Solutions, Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases. Weve been building alternative fueling stations since 1998 and are proud that the work we do supports a cleaner, healthier world.

Several liquid hydrogen stations in South Korea have already been commissioned, successfully fueling buses back-to-back, and ramping up to capacity. The remaining stations in South Korea will be brought online over the next 12 months.

About Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group

The Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases Group is a leading provider of cryogenic equipment, technologies and applications for clean energy and industrial gas market segments. The Group employs more than 1,600 people in 22 countries and is headed by Cryogenic Industries, Inc. in Southern California, U.S., which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nikkiso Co., Ltd. (TSE: 6376).

Media contact

Lisa Adams

Lisa.adams@nikkisoceig.com

Mobile: +1 (405) 492-1689

About Nikkiso Co. Ltd.

Since its establishment in 1953, Nikkiso has contributed to solving social issues by anticipating the changing times with world-first and Japan-first technologies and products. In the industrial business, Nikkiso has created new markets by developing products in the energy field, hemodialysis-related products in the medical business, and CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced plastic) aerostructures in the aerospace business.

About SK Plug Hyverse

SKPH is a joint venture between SK E&S and Plug Power Inc, a leading provider of turnkey hydrogen solutions for the global green hydrogen economy, to pursue integrated solution businesses throughout the clean hydrogen value chain in Asia.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d45a57fe-03f5-4e5a-a789-57e6efd5cd26
Dallas, TX, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dickeys Barbecue Pit is thrilled to continue expanding their hickory smoked, barbecue pits in the greater Calgary area.

The Texas-style barbecue brand has entered into a multi-store agreement with local restaurant franchisor, Gaurand Modh to bring Dickeys Legit. Texas. Barbecue to the great people of the province of Alberta. Gaurang will open his first store in Taber Alberta, where he is currently a resident and expand into additional communities nearby. With his previous franchise experience, Mr. Modh believes the Taber location will be a great success and is confident the residents will welcome this historic barbecue experience.

Im very happy for Dickeys to continue growing throughout Canada and to have formed this partnership with Mr. Modh, said Jim Perkins, Dickeys Executive VP of International Development. Were looking forward to working alongside this team and to bring a tried and true, Texas barbecue to the great folks of Alberta.

Dickeys Barbecue Pit continues to move Texas-style barbecue into the international market. In addition to the new expansion into Mexico, and the recent deal in the United Kingdom, Dickeys can also be found in Botswana, Brazil, Egypt, Japan, Pakistan, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.

To learn more, follow Dickeys Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickeys Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the worlds largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 80 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 44 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue.  At Dickeys, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickeys proudly believes theres no shortcut to true barbecue and its why our name isnt BBQ. Dickeys is led by both Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO, Dickeys Capital Group, who has had a large hand in the brands international expansion into 8 countries, as well as the opening of their USDA Certified manufacturing and distribution plant, and his wife, Laura Rea Dickey, CEO, Dickeys Barbecue Pit, Inc. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 12 wholesome sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. Dickeys Barbecue has over 500 locations across the United States and eight other countries.

Dickeys was named to Newsweeks 2022 Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains list, Nations Restaurant News 2024 list for Fast-casual restaurant brands that scored the highest for value, and USA Today 2021 readers choice awards. Dickeys has finished in the Top 20 of the Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers four out of the past five years. The barbecue brand been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was recently named to D Magazines Top 500 CEOs in 2023, was named among the countrys 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nations Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickey's Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickeys Barbecue is part of Dickeys Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com.

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HOUSTON, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Itafos Inc. (TSX-V: IFOS) (Itafos or the Company) is pleased to announce that all items of business were approved at its annual general meeting of shareholders held today (the Meeting).



At the Meeting, the following six incumbent directors were overwhelmingly re-elected: Anthony Cina, Ricardo De Armas, G. David Delaney, Ronald Wilkinson, Stephen Shapiro and Isaiah Toback. Elena Viyella de Paliza did not stand for re-election at the Meeting. On behalf of Itafos and the board of the directors, I would like to thank Elena for her contributions to the Company over the past three years and wish her well in all of her future endeavours, commented Anthony Cina, Chair of the board of directors.

The appointment of the Companys auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, was also ratified by shareholders.

Additionally, in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V), the Company obtained disinterested shareholder approval to amend the Companys restricted share unit plan (the RSU Plan) to a fixed up to 20% Plan. The Company also obtained disinterested shareholder approval to amend the Companys stock option plan (the Stock Option Plan) to a fixed up to 20% Plan. As a result of these amendments, the number of shares issuable under all of the Companys equity-based compensation plans (including the Stock Option Plan and the RSU Plan), in the aggregate, will be fixed at a maximum 38,398,527 shares, representing 20% of the number of issued and outstanding shares. For further details on the amendments to the RSU Plan and the Stock Option Plan, please refer to the Companys management information circular for the Meeting dated May 21, 2024 which is available on the Companys SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Itafos

The Company is a phosphate and specialty fertilizer company. The Companys businesses and projects are as follows:

Conda  a vertically integrated phosphate fertilizer business located in Idaho, US with production capacity as follows: approximately 550kt per year of monoammonium phosphate (MAP), MAP with micronutrients (MAP+), superphosphoric acid (SPA), merchant grade phosphoric acid (MGA) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP); and approximately 27kt per year of hydrofluorosilicic acid (HFSA);

Arraias  a vertically integrated phosphate fertilizer business located in Tocantins, Brazil with production capacity as follows: approximately 500kt per year of single superphosphate (SSP) and SSP with micronutrients (SSP+); and approximately 40kt per year of excess sulfuric acid (220kt per year gross sulfuric acid production capacity);

Farim  a high-grade phosphate mine project located in Farim, Guinea-Bissau;

Santana  a vertically integrated high-grade phosphate mine and fertilizer plant project located in Para, Brazil; and

Araxa  a vertically integrated rare earth elements and niobium mine and extraction plant project located in Minas Gerais, Brazil.



The Company is a Delaware corporation that is headquartered in Houston, TX. The Companys shares trade on the TSX-V under the ticker symbol IFOS. The Companys principal shareholder is CL Fertilizers Holding LLC (CLF). CLF is an affiliate of Castlelake, L.P., a global private investment firm.

For more information, or to join the Companys mailing list to receive notification of future news releases, please visit the Companys website at www.itafos.com.

Forward-Looking Information

Certain information contained in this news release constitutes forward-looking information. All information other than information of historical fact is forward-looking information. The use of any of the words intend, anticipate, plan, continue, estimate, expect, may, will, project, should, would, believe, predict and potential and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information. This information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. No assurance can be given that this information will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon.

Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and other factors that could cause actual results and events to vary materially from that anticipated by such forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from expected results described in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those risk factors set out in the Companys annual information form and other disclosure documents available under the Companys profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Companys website at www.itafos.com. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of risks, uncertainties and assumptions are not exhaustive. The forward-looking information included in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and is made as of the date of this news release. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information except as required by applicable securities laws.

NEITHER THE TSX-V NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX-V) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

For further information, please contact:

For Additional Information Contact:

Matthew ONeill

Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

investor@itafos.com

713-242-8446
Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On June 13th, 2024, The Catalyst Accelerator team hosted a highly successful on-site demonstration day at Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation (CCTI). The event attracted over 115 attendees eager to meet the seven Space Domain Awareness (SDA) cohort companies and gain insight into their cutting-edge, dual-use technology solutions. In attendance were Air Force, Space Force, and other Government personnel. Additionally, industry leaders, investors, and those curious about where the U.S. is heading with SDA capabilities were in attendance as well.

The SDA cohort marked the 13th Accelerator facilitated by CCTI. The Catalyst Accelerator team was thrilled to welcome several new sponsors into their support network to include Maxar Intelligence, who was the proud sponsor of the second session of the Accelerator, as well as Leonid, Delta Solutions & Strategies, and 5 Star Bank, who all served generously as event sponsors. The problem statement for this cohort was focused on how the United States Space Force can introduce commercial capabilities to its mission environment for Space Domain Awareness. The cohort companies were chosen for their technology and business readiness from a pool of over 25 applicants and began their Accelerator experience on March 19th, 2024. Raul Diaz, one of the Catalyst Accelerator Government Navigators, had the pleasure of working with the seven companies closely throughout the program, offering his extensive government experience. He shared, I was so happy to be involved with the SDA Cohort. Great interaction with all the companies. Such innovation. Great leadership and support from the government and Catalyst Campus team as well. Everyone working together is what it's all about!

Over the course of the Accelerator, the companies were guided by the following subject matter experts: Government Navigators and end-users, enabling them to better understand government space needs; business experts, helping them pivot their technology and corporate posture to position themselves well in the government market; and Commercial Navigators (General Dynamics, Scout Space, Kratos, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Freedom Space, American Systems, Colsa and Red Shred), helping them step into the government arena with advice, consulting, and key contact introductions within the government and commercial sectors.

Demo Day marked the culmination of the SDA Accelerator, showcasing the cohorts dedication, the evolution of their technology, and the adaptation of their business model to align with the U.S. Space Force's needs. Their innovative capabilities have the potential to revolutionize this industry, offering enhanced competencies and efficiency. Moreover, the outstanding messages from the keynote speakers, Col Deborah Van Caster, Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) to the Space Delta 2 Commander, and Maj Sean Allen, Chief of the Space Domain Awareness Tools Applications and Processing Lab (SDA TAP Lab), allowed participants to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of using commercial data to strengthen the awareness of the space environment. Overall, the event provided an invaluable opportunity for attendees to network, engage with the cohort companies, and explore potential collaborations.

The Cyber Navigator for this cohort, Ernest Campos, Account Executive Space Programs at American Systems, expressed, The #CASDA2 Demo Day was an incredible event, and American Systems was honored to have been an integral part of the entire cohort experience. The businesses who participated in the program demonstrated incredible growth both from a business posture as well as the development of their marketable capabilities. The United States Space Force and our nation at large will be safer and more secure as a result of companies like these who have completed the program.

For more information about the Catalyst Accelerator and its SDA cohort, please visit https://catalystaccelerator.space/cohort_page/space-domain-awareness/.

Cohort companies included:

Active Vigilance (Cheyenne, Wyoming) At Active Vigilance, we are spearheading the deployment of onboard artificial intelligence and machine learning for aerospace applications. Our vision is a safer world where space assets survive through events no one could have predicted, limiting the effects of hostile action, and maintaining deterrence. Active Vigilance provides the most efficient and trustworthy machine learning, enabling human-on-the loop control of autonomous space assets. Active Vigilance has developed machine learning which needs minimal training data and collaborates with human oversight to ensure mission goals are met. With flexible hardware implementations including in space and on the ground, Active Vigilance offers a new resilience for in-space and other high-value, complex assets.

https://activevigilance.com

Astra Ultra (Littleton, Colorado) Astra Ultra is revolutionizing space domain awareness with our cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology. Our AI systems provide unparalleled accuracy in tracking and predicting orbital patterns, ensuring enhanced safety and strategic planning for satellite operations. By integrating advanced machine learning algorithms, Astra Ultra offers real-time data analysis and decision-making capabilities, ensuring continued mission capability and success. Our commitment to innovation positions Astra Ultra as a pivotal player in shaping the future of space domain awareness.

https://astra-ultra.ai

The Exclosure (San Francisco, California) Exclosure stands at the forefront of space situational awareness, revolutionizing the field with our global network of AI/ML-enhanced observatories. Compact yet powerful, our observatories deliver unprecedented revisit rates for analyzing orbital and atmospheric objects. We blend cutting-edge artificial intelligence with advanced data processing to offer real-time insights, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in space observation and security. Exclosure seeks to provide not just space domain awareness, but space domain empowerment.

https://www.exclosure.io

iMETALX Inc. (Sausalito, California) iMETALX is at the forefront of space technology, offering cutting-edge observation and surveillance services. Utilizing sophisticated sensors and algorithms, the company excels in identifying, tracking, and analyzing satellites and debris across low earth orbit and beyond. Essential for maintaining space situational awareness, iMETALX's services safeguard the functionality and safety of space assets through comprehensive imagery and data, while also facilitating effective operations for in-space services.

https://www.imetalx.com

Orbital Services Corporation LLC (OSCorp) (Colorado Springs, Colorado) OSCorp is an in-space services company at the vanguard of cementing U.S. space supremacy to safeguard the space domain and build a thriving in-space economy. We develop cutting-edge technologies at the nexus of GN&C, AI/ML, LiDAR sensors, space robotics, and lasercom terminalsthe building blocks that would enable safe and robust ADR involving RPOC of uncooperative spacecraft.

https://www.orbitalservicescorporation.com

Quasar Satellite Technologies (Sydney, Australia) Quasar has developed a state-of-the-art, fully digital multibeam phased array antenna, capable of simultaneously delivering SDA & SATCOM from a single aperture, marking a revolutionary advancement in All-Sky visibility.

https://quasarsat.com

TRL 11 Inc. (Irvine, California) TRL11 is advancing the development and utilization of full motion video for spacecraft operations and space security. The company is building cameras and recording systems emphasizing real-time and low power video feeds from space. Central to TRL11s innovative approach is its proprietary AI/ML video processing software which employs a novel compression technique and downlinks only the valuable content in a recording to streamline insights for ground operators while minimizing bandwidth costs.

https://www.trl11.com

About Catalyst Accelerator

The Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate and United States Space Forces Catalyst Accelerator is a NewSpace-focused defense and national security industry accelerator, headquartered on the Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation (CCTI, a Colorado 501(c)3) in Colorado Springs, Colorado. CCTI is a collaborative ecosystem where industry, small business, entrepreneurs, startups, government, academia, and investors intersect with Colorados aerospace and defense industry to create community, spark innovation, and stimulate business growth.

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New York, New York, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Co-authored by: Bill Bedrossian, President + CEO, Covenant House International and Dan Freed, Co-founder + CEO, Former resident of Covenant House New York

For a former homeless youth, it seems barely conceivable.

This week, the Johnson v. Grants Pass case will address a critical issue: whether laws that punish homeless individuals for sleeping outdoors with basic protections such as a pillow or blanketwhen no safe and accessible shelter options are availableviolate the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects against excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment.

My co-author, Dan Freed, understands how a law like this could hinder a persons ability to achieve a life of stability and self-reliance. As someone who was homeless as a teenager, I can say first-hand how difficult it is to get back on your feet. Creating criminal penalties to address homelessness will only worsen the issue and prevent the opportunity for those to get ahead. Instead of eliminating homelessness, these penalties exacerbate the struggles homeless populations face, making it harder for them to overcome their circumstances.

Whats more, these measures disproportionately affect young people, who are already at higher risk due to factors like family issues, abuse, aging out of foster care, and economic hardship. Criminalizing homelessness disrupts young people's stability continuing into adulthood, increasing their vulnerability to mental health issues, and creating barriers to education, employment, and housingall of which make finding a path out of homelessness even more difficult. Homeless youth dont need more hurdles or a criminal record to marginalize them further. Instead, society, including local governments, needs to create supportive resources, effective outreach programs, and legitimate safety nets.

It is very clear that Johnson v. Grants Pass is, in fact, a penalty for homelessness itself, says Dan. Its a tax on homeless people that there is no conceivable way they could pay. As a volunteer for Covenant House, Ive met countless teens who become homeless due to circumstances outside of their control, like after the death of a parent. Ive met young women who have no choice but to face the uncertainties of the street to escape domestic violence. Ive met people whose parents were struggling with addiction who sleep outside because it feels safer than their own home. These peoplehuman beingshave no choice but to expose themselves to the elements and the risks of the street. Should these young people also have to fear waking up to police handcuffing and arresting them?

Welcome to the unjust world proposed by Johnson v. Grants Pass.

Currently, more than 600,000 people in America experience homelessness on any given night, with nearly half250,000sleeping outside. And every year, 4.2 million young people experience a form of homelessness in this country. At Covenant House, 'The Journey Home' initiative is our roadmap for addressing this issue. Our job, and indeed societys job, should be to redirect these young people away from a life of homelessness. This new law does the oppositeit forces them down a dead-end street and further increases the burden they already struggle to bear.

I can shout this from the rooftop, but it will never have the same impact as hearing from someone like my co-author Dan and other individuals who have experienced homelessness and are on their own journey to wholeness and independence. Nonprofit organizations like Covenant House play a crucial role in helping youth overcome homelessness by providing essential services and support. I know because Im a former Covenant House resident. I would not be in the position Im in today if it wasnt for the kindness and generosity of the Covenant House, its volunteers, and their community, who provided me with the opportunity to have reliable housing so I could forge a new path for myself. Thanks to their programs like emergency intervention and a transitional housing program, I was able to find stability, a safe place to rest and physically recover from living on the street, and a comprehensive support system to take small, manageable steps toward self-sufficiency. Today, Im the founder of a growing company that employs 40+ people. And I devote my time and resources to giving back to Covenant House and to my community so that I can empower others just as I was.

This is what we needreal, solid, reliable servicesnot simply a law penalizing people for a lack of support from institutions. We must rally as a caring and compassionate community to support others, especially our homeless youth, to achieve their potential. Instead of providing adequate services to begin solving the situation, the objective appears to be to further reduce the status and situation of the poorest people in this country at the most difficult time of their lives by penalizing them for having nowhere to live. Punching them down when we should be building them up.

Adds Dan: Its exceedingly difficult for advocates of young homeless people and the organizations that serve them to see who exactly would benefit from this law. I support Covenant Houses stance of people experiencing homelessness to be treated with dignity rather than being criminalized.

Together, with the Covenant House community, we believe that, as a society, we are better than this.

And we believe that all unhoused people living in our communities deserve far better than this punitive action that will set a worrisome precedent for how homeless people are treated individually and the setbacks theyll face as a result.

We cant allow Johnson v. Grants Pass to serve as a new standard for how policy is set. A ruling that makes it easier to ticket or arrest homeless people for sleeping outside will make homelessness worse, not to mention how it will negatively impact their inclusion socially and culturally in their own cities and towns.

Join us in standing against this cruel and unusual punishment and urge an end to the criminalization of homelessness.

-Bill Bedrossian & Dan Freed

ABOUT COVENANT HOUSE

Covenant House is the largest, primarily privately funded charity in North and Central America providing immediate and long-term support for young people facing homelessness and survivors of trafficking through unconditional love, absolute respect, and relentless support. Covenant House doors are open 24/7 in 34 cities across the United States, Canada, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico to all young people who need housing and help, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression, and all services and programs are available at no cost. Our North Star is ending youth homelessness. covenanthouse.org
BOULDER, Colo., June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OnKure, Inc. today announced the appointment of Rogan Nunn as General Counsel and Secretary. Mr. Nunn will be a member of OnKures Executive Team, reporting to Nicholas Saccomano, President and Chief Executive Officer, and will oversee all aspects of the Companys legal and compliance functions.



"We are delighted to welcome Rogan to OnKure as our new General Counsel and Secretary," said Dr. Saccomano. "Rogan's extensive legal expertise and strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to advance our programs."

Im thrilled to be joining OnKure at such a pivotal and exciting time in its evolution, said Mr. Nunn. We have an extraordinarily talented and dedicated team here. Together, I believe we have a real opportunity to advance the state of treatment and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients.

Prior to joining OnKure, Mr. Nunn served as General Counsel, America at ADC Therapeutics, where he oversaw global legal operations and executed transactions across the U.S., Europe and Asia. Before ADC, Mr. Nunn served as EVP, General Counsel and Secretary of Array Biopharma until Arrays sale to Pfizer. Prior to moving in-house at Array Biopharma, Mr. Nunn was a corporate and M&A specialist at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, where he counseled boards and executive teams of both public and private companies in a diverse array of corporate matters, with a particular focus on life sciences and biotechnology.

Mr. Nunn holds a BS in Finance and International Business from Georgetown University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law.

About OnKure

OnKure, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of best-in-class precision medicines that target biologically validated drivers of cancers that are underserved by available therapies. Using structure-based drug design portfolio, OnKure is building a pipeline of tumor-agnostic candidates that are designed to achieve optimal efficacy and tolerability. OnKure is currently developing OKI-219, a selective PI3KH1047R inhibitor, as its lead program. OnKure aims to become a leader in targeting oncogenic PI3K and has multiple programs designed to enable best-in-class targeting of this key oncogene.

For more information about OnKure, visit us at www.onkure.com and follow us on LinkedIn.




NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bernstein Liebhard LLP:



Do you, or did you, own shares of Teradata Corporation (NYSE: TDC)?

Did you purchase your shares between February 13, 2023 and February 12, 2024, inclusive?

Did you lose money in your investment in Teradata Corporation?

Do you want to discuss your rights?

Bernstein Liebhard LLP announces that a securities class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of Teradata Corporation (Teradata or the Company) (NYSE: TDC) between November 3, 2021 and August 1, 2023, inclusive (the Class Period). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of California and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the Complaint).

If you purchased or acquired Teradata securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit The Teradata Corporation Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Investor Relations Manager Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@bernlieb.com.

Teradata provides a connected multi-cloud data platform for enterprise analytics. To measure the Companys progress in achieving its strategic objectives, Teradata utilizes certain financial and performance metrics including Total Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) or the annual value at a point in time of all recurring contracts, including subscription, cloud, software upgrade rights, and maintenance and, included within Total ARR, Public Cloud ARR or the annual value at a point in time of all contracts related to public cloud implementations of its cloud data platform. Thus, Teradatas Total ARR for a certain time period is determined, in significant part, by the number of customer transactions the Company is able close in that period.

Plaintiff alleges that Defendants failed to disclose that: (i) under Teradatas expanded business model, which involved engagement with additional customer business units and decisionmakers, transactions with the Companys customers took longer to finalize; (ii) Teradata overstated its ability to close customer transactions within their intended timeframes under its expanded business model; (iii) Teradata failed to timely close several customer transactions that it had factored into its outlook for 2023 ARR growth; and (iv) as a result, the Company was unlikely to meet its full year 2023 Total and Public Cloud ARR expectations.

On December 7, 2023, Chief Financial Officer Defendant Claire Bramley revealed that the Company had an eight-figure deal that potentially could get pushed out of Q4 2023, the effect of which could put Teradata towards the low end or slightly below the range for cloud ARR that it previously gave. On this news, Teradatas stock price fell $2.89 per share, or 6.24%, to close at $43.40 per share on December 7, 2023.

Then, on February 12, 2024, Teradata announced its Q4 and full year 2023 financial results. Among other things, the Company stated that due to deal timing issues, public cloud ARR increased by only 48% and total ARR increased by only 6% for the full year 2023, falling well short of the Companys previously issued expectations for these performance metrics. On this news, Teradatas stock price fell $10.57 per share, or 21.66%, to close at $38.22 per share on February 13, 2024.

If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than August 13, 2024 . A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesnt require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.

If you purchased or acquired Teradata securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit The Teradata Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Investor Relations Manager Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@bernlieb.com.

Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journals Plaintiffs Hot List thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2024 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

Contact Information:

Peter Allocco

Investor Relations Manager

Bernstein Liebhard LLP

https://www.bernlieb.com

(212) 951-2030

pallocco@bernlieb.com
Corpus Christi, TX, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On Wednesday, Driscoll Health Plan CEO Craig Smith spoke to members of the media about state Medicaid changes that could shutdown Driscoll Health Plan. He was joined by Dr. Mary Dale Peterson, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Driscoll Health System.

Since March 2024, Driscoll Health Plan has been appealing to the state after it was denied the opportunity by Texas Health and Human Services Commission to continue to provide Medicaid STAR and Childrens Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage.

Its a decision by the agency that if not reversed, could effectively mean the end of Driscoll Health Plan. As a result, three-quarters of the children and pregnant mothers on Medicaid across South Texas will have their health insurance disrupted. More than 500 jobs in our part of the state could be eliminated, and access to pediatric care and maternal care will be reduced for a generation of individuals in need, said Driscoll Health Plan CEO Craig Smith.

Even worse, Driscoll is not alone in this situation. HHSC is also eliminating other top quality health plans, like Cook Childrens and Texas Childrens. The ripple effect of the agencys drastic action will force 1.8 million children and pregnant mothers to change their Medicaid insurance provider, Smith said.

Im here to assure you, our friends and families at Driscoll, that we will fight until the very end to continue serving our members and our communities, because South Texas is our home, Smith said.

Driscoll will file a second appeal with the state this week. If the second appeal is rejected, Driscoll is prepared to pursue legal action against the state.

For more than two decades, Driscoll Health Plan has been providing Medicaid coverage throughout South Texas. Today, Driscoll Health Plan has grown to serve 24 counties and 185,000 members, said Dr. Mary Dale Peterson, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Driscoll Health System.

Driscoll Health Plan funds dozens of health-related programs in the community, including an annual $10 million investment into maternal fetal medicine to guarantee coordinated care and keep pregnant moms healthy. This has saved the state of Texas more than $1 billion between 2008 and 2022 in reduced NICU costs. The investment sees the employment of several full-time maternal fetal medicine physician-specialists who provide care at clinics across South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley.

This initiative reduced the preterm birthrate in the region from 15.1 percent to its lowest point of 9.1 percent before the pandemic.

To me thats not a number. Thats all the babies that can now have a more normal life, Dr. Peterson said.

Other programs funded by Driscoll Health Plan focus on keeping the community healthy, like providing vaccines and diapers to new moms, sponsoring fun activities for kids to stay healthy and outdoors, or helping kids get back to school with new backpacks and school supplies. Driscoll Health Plan partners with more than 500 different organizations, ranging from other nonprofit groups with parallel missions, to community groups, food banks, first responders, local governments and school districts. In total, Driscoll Health Plan generates $330 million in annual business activity, impacting over 2,800 jobs across the state, according to a Perryman Group study commissioned by Driscoll.

The basis of our appeal is to illustrate that the procurement process conducted by the state was fundamentally flawed and we believe actually violated state statues  It did not take into consideration past performance, any historical results, didnt look at the 150 quality measures that we report on every year  it basically ignored two decades of investment, said Dr. Peterson.

Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of this decision is the fact that members and physicians and other providers were never consulted, said Dr. Peterson.

Driscoll Health Plan began in 1998 as an answer to the uninsured population in South Texas. It has grown to serve a 14-county area surrounding Nueces County and a 10-county area in the Rio Grande Valley. The plan offers both Medicaid-managed and low-cost coverage options for children, young adults and expecting mothers.

MEDIA: Full video of the event for press to use can be found at this Dropbox link. Please contact Fernando Ramirez for additional information or to arrange an interview.

###

About Driscoll: Driscoll is the premier healthcare provider for kids in South Texas. We are a nonprofit healthcare system that has served communities in the Lone Star State since 1953. Today, Driscoll is the fastest-growing healthcare system in the region, offering care at the regions only two freestanding designated childrens hospitals: Driscoll Childrens Hospital Corpus Christi and Driscoll Children's Hospital Rio Grande Valley, and at specialty centers and clinics across South Texas. Our non-profit community-based health plan, Driscoll Health Plan, offers Texas families access to local physicians and other lifesaving benefits.
NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES

Vancouver, June 18, 2024 - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. (CNSX: ARS) ("Ares" or the "Company") wishes to announce that, further to its news release dated May 10, 2024, it has filed an amended and restated offering document (the "Amended Offering Document") in connection with its previously announced non-brokered private placement offering of a minimum of 5,555,555 units and a maximum of 22,222,222 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of $0.18 per Unit for gross proceeds of a minimum of $1,000,000 (the "Initial Minimum Offering") and a maximum of up to $4,000,000 pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions (the "LIFE Offering"). In connection with the LIFE Offering, the Company filed an offering document dated May 9, 2024 (the "Initial Offering Document"). On May 31, 2024, under the Initial Offering Document, the Company closed the first tranche of the LIFE Offering and raised gross proceeds of $1,077,297.28. On June 7, 2024, the Company closed the second tranche of the LIFE Offering under the Initial Offering Document and raised gross proceeds of $996,709.86, for total gross proceeds from both tranches of $2,074,007.14.

The Initial Offering Document is being amended to: (i) remove the Initial Minimum Offering, and (ii) offer up to 16,111,111 units at $0.18 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $2,900,000 (the "Amended LIFE Offering"). Upon the filing of the Amended Offering Document, the Amended LIFE Offering will be extended to the date that is 45 days from the date of this news release. The Amended LIFE Offering is being made available to purchasers resident in each of the Provinces of Canada, including Quebec, and the Company will be filing the Amended Offering Document in English and French. The Amended Offering Document can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at: www.aresmining.com. Prospective investors should read this Amended Offering Document before making an investment decision.

The Company is also pleased to announce that it has executed a term sheet (the "Term Sheet") with an institutional investor pursuant to which the investor intends to subscribe for up to 8,333,333 Units for gross proceeds of $1,500,000 (the "Institutional Investment"). The Company paid the investor a deposit of $45,000, which is refundable, less the investors legal fees, upon the closing of the Institutional Investment under the Amended LIFE Offering. Pursuant to the Term Sheet, the Units will be issued to the investor under the terms of a subscription agreement to be entered into between the Company and the investor. The parties will also enter into a sharing agreement and various other support agreements. The gross proceeds from the Institutional Investment and Units to be issued to the investor are to be delivered into escrow with a third party escrow agent, with the proceeds released to the Company in monthly installments over a period of 24 months. Final details regarding the subscription by the investor will be included in a closing news release.

Upon closing of any tranches of the Amended LIFE Offering, the Company may pay finders finder's fees under the Amended LIFE Offering as permitted by the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange and applicable securities laws.

For additional details relating to the Amended LIFE Offering and the closing of the first and second tranches of the LIFE Offering, please refer to the Company's news releases dated May 10, 2024, May 31, 2024 and June 7, 2024, which can be accessed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+. Completion of any tranches under the Amended LIFE Offering remain subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals.

As disclosed in the Amended Offering Document and prior news releases, the Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Amended LIFE Offering to pay for the ongoing construction and installation of a ramp to intersect fluorspar mineralization at depth at the Company's Lost Sheep fluorspar property and for general and corporate working capital purposes.

The securities described herein have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or available exemptions from such registration requirements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States, or in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF

Ares Strategic Mining Inc.

James Walker

Chief Executive Officer and President

For further information, please contact James Walker by email at jwalker@aresmining.com

DISCLOSURE AND FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events.

In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the Amended LIFE Offering, including the total anticipated proceeds, the proposed participation by the institutional investor in the Amended LIFE Offering, the expected use of proceeds and the closing (including the proposed closing date) of any tranches of the Amended LIFE Offering. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information, including the assumptions that: the Company will close all or any portion of the Amended LIFE Offering on the timeline anticipated; the Institutional Investment will be completed on the terms set out in the Term Sheet, or at all; the Company will raise the anticipated amount of gross proceeds from the Amended LIFE Offering and the Company will use the proceeds of the Amended LIFE Offering as anticipated. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to the Company. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of the Company's management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions or forecasts will prove to be accurate.

Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include: the risk that the Amended LIFE Offering do not close in part or at all; the risk that the Company raises less than the anticipated amount of gross proceeds from the Amended LIFE Offering; the risk that the Company does not use the proceeds from the Amended LIFE Offering as currently expected; the Institutional Investment does not complete as set out in the Term Sheet or at all; risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined and the risk that exploration and development activities will cost more than the amount budgeted for such activities by the Company; risks relating to changes in mineral prices and the worldwide demand for and supply of minerals; risks related to increased competition and current global financial conditions; access and supply risks; risks associated with the Company's reliance on key personnel; operational risks; regulatory risks, including risks relating to the acquisition of the necessary licenses and permits; financing, capitalization and liquidity risks; title and environmental risks; and risks relating to the failure to receive all requisite regulatory approvals. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDER HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
Latest results for 36 new drillholes totalling 8,803 m for Sayona's North American Lithium (NAL) operation, Quebec, Canada with highlights including: North-West Extension - New Pegmatites 21.00m @ 1.55% Li 2 O from 352.90m in drillhole LAN-24-153A 25.50m @ 1.64% Li 2 O from 308.20m in drillhole LAN-24-156 25.35m @ 1.76% Li 2 O from 269.25m in drillhole LAN-24-159 18.40m @ 1.54% Li 2 O from 356.05m in drillhole LAN-24-159 Resources Area - Potential Resources Upgrade or Conversion 26.05m @ 1.66% Li 2 O from 324.25m in drillhole LAN-23-010-W1 19.90m @ 1.52% Li 2 O from 52.20m in drillhole LAN-23-072



All assay results of the 2023 drilling campaign are now completed, validated and released (24 holes for 4,900 1 m in this release)

m in this release) High-grade results were obtained from the first 2024 drillholes (12 drillholes and wedges totalling 3,903 m).

Further drilling program totalling approximately 30,000 m to be completed at NAL throughout 2024.

MONTREAL, June 19, 2024 -- North American lithium producer Sayona Mining Ltd. ("Sayona") (ASX:SYA; OTCQB:SYAXF) announced today the results from 36 new drillholes totalling 8,803 metres at the Company's North American Lithium (NAL) operation (Sayona 75%; Piedmont Lithium 25%) in Quebec, Canada, demonstrating the high-grade nature of this strategic asset.



All the drilling results from the 2023 exploration program are now complete, validated and released and the first results from the 2024 exploration drilling program, which is currently underway, are reported in this release. The 2023 drill program has been a successful in demonstrating the potential to increase the mineral resource base at NAL. The 2023 drill program was designed to test extensions to mineralisation and provide in-fill data for the upgrade of Mineral Resource categories. The latest drilling results include the identification of high-grade lithium mineralisation outside the Mineral Resource estimate (MRE) pit shells, particularly in the North-West and South-East extensions, and support potential conversion of some of the Inferred resources to Indicated category within the MRE pit shells.

Sayona's Interim CEO, James Brown commented: "We are delighted to have another strong set of drilling results from North American Lithium which continue to highlight the superb quality of this mine.

"The results reported today have shown that mineralisation continues outside of the existing MRE pit shells so the next key step will be to complete a recalculation of the MRE to include recent drilling.

"Additionally, we will also complete a further 30,000 metres of drilling throughout 2024 to better understand the full potential of the NAL mineralisation."

For more information, please contact: For community and local media enquiries, please contact: Andrew Barber Bianca Galimi Investor Relations Communications and Community Relations Ph: +617 3369 7058 Ph: +1 819 856-3288 Email: ir@sayonamining.com.au Email: bianca.galimi@sayona.ca

About Sayona Mining

Sayona Mining Ltd. is a North American lithium producer (ASX:SYA; OTCQB:SYAXF), with projects in Quebec, Canada and Western Australia.

In Quebec, Sayona's assets comprise North American Lithium together with the Authier Lithium Project and the Tansim Lithium Project, supported by a strategic partnership with American lithium developer Piedmont Lithium Inc. Sayona also holds a 60% stake in the Moblan Lithium Project in northern Quebec.

In Western Australia, the Company holds a large tenement portfolio in the Pilbara region prospective for gold and lithium. Sayona is exploring for Hemi style gold targets in the world class Pilbara region, while its lithium projects include Company-owned leases and those subject to a joint venture with Morella Corporation.

For more information, please visit us at www.sayonamining.com.au

The original version of the press release is available at the following link: https://clients3.weblink.com.au/pdf/SYA/02818888.pdf

References to Previous ASX Releases

New high-grade zones discovered at North American Lithium - 13 May 2024

New high-grade zones encountered in NAL drilling - 2 November 2023

DFS confirms NAL value with A$2.2B NPV - 14 April 2023

The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original market announcement and all material assumptions and technical parameters continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcements.

Competent and Qualified Person Statement

The information in this announcement relating to Exploration Results is based on, and fairly represents, information and supporting documentation prepared by Mr. Carl Corriveau, PGeo, VP Exploration of Sayona, Mr Alain Carrier, PGeo, independent consultant (InnovExplo) and Mr Ehouman N'Dah, PGeo, Exploration Manager of Sayona who are all members of the Quebec Order of Geologists, a Registered Overseas Professional Organisation as defined in the ASX Listing Rules, and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposits under consideration and to the activity which has been undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the "Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves" and are Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr Carrier, Corriveau and N'Dah consent to the inclusion in this release of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which they appear.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to "reserves" or "resources". Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond Sayona's control. Actual events or results may differ materially from the events or results expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements.
Vancouver - Fidelity Minerals Corp. (TSX-V: FMN | FSE: S5GM | SSE: MNYC) ("Fidelity" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to the news release of March 1, 2024, the Company has settled debt in the amount of $701,882.50 by the issuance of 14,037,650 common shares at a deemed price of $0.05 per share (the "Settlement Shares"). The Settlement Shares are subject to a four-month hold period expiring on October 20, 2024.

Of the shares for debt settlement, $180,245 was owed to insiders of the Company related to outstanding fees and $425,000 was owed to Lions Bay Capital Inc. ("Lions Bay") related to outstanding loans. Lions Bay is a major shareholder of Fidelity and has provided continued support in the form of unsecured non-interest-bearing advances ("Loans") to Company since December of 2022 which totalled $622,477 prior to the shares for debt settlement. Subsequent to the shares for debt transaction, the Loans outstanding from Lions Bay is $197,477.

The debt settlement with each insider will be a "related party transaction" under Policy 5.9 of the TSX Venture Exchange and Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The debt settlement with each of these individuals is exempt from the minority approval and formal valuation requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to subsections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 as neither the fair market value of the debt, nor the fair market value of the shares to be issued in settlement of the debt, exceeds 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

About Fidelity Minerals Corp.

Fidelity Minerals Corp. has assembled a portfolio of high-quality mining assets in Peru and aims to delineate major deposits on these properties that could attract the interest of mid-tier and major mining companies. Fidelity has a portfolio of assets in Peru and is currently focused on progressing its most advanced project - Las Huaquillas. Fidelity is also looking to opportunistically expand its project portfolio with accretive acquisitions. The company is backed by an experienced management team with diverse technical, market, and commercial expertise and is supported by committed, and sophisticated investors focused on building long-term value.

On behalf of the Board of Fidelity Minerals.

Dean Pekeski

CEO, President and Director

Email: dean@fidelityminerals.com

For more information, please visit the corporate website at http://www.fidelityminerals.com or contact:

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.

Disclaimer & Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that relate to future events or future financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of terminology such as "may", "should", "intend", "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "project", "predict", "potential", or "continue" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. This news release may also contain inferences to future oriented financial information ("FOFI") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The information in this news release has been prepared by our management to provide a context to provide the reader with an outlook for our future activities and anticipated key milestones and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements in this announcement include, (but are not limited to) advancing certain key project activities that could represent important milestones which the Company expects may represent material valuation catalysts, such as the expectation that through the assembling of a portfolio of high-quality mining assets in Peru, the Company aims to delineate major deposits on these properties that could attract the interest of mid-tier and major mining companies. Further, forward-looking statements in this release include that Fidelity Minerals Corp. is also looking to opportunistically expand its project portfolio with accretive acquisitions.

Copyright (c) 2024 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
Photo: Michael Stone

Around 11 a.m. on a recent Thursday, Salvatore La Rosa was on his 1977 Puch Magnum with a cooler of sandwiches in tow. Hed spent the morning putting them together  slices of soppressata with marinated zucchini and a heavy dose of Pecorino  and wrapping them in brown butcher paper. Compact subs, by the time they arrived at their destinations, oil had started to seep into the squishy Italian rolls. Since La Rosa launched Salvos Cucina Casalinga four months ago, the menu has changed every week, but the idea for the Instagram-only delivery service remains the same: Send a DM, choose a lunch option, pick a delivery time, and La Rosa will drop it off (in Bushwick, Bed-Stuy, or Ridgewood). Yes, hell be on his moped. I will give all the credit for any success to the beauty of the moped, La Rosa says.

The entire project happened somewhat by accident. Hed left his full-time job as a graphic designer  I was tired of looking at a computer for endless hours of the day into the night, he says  and started working as a courier to pay the bills. Earlier this year, he started posting photos of his lunches: My first post, I remember I wrote, Heres a photo of my chicken cutlet sandwich that I sent to my mom, but yall can look at it, too. He was surprised to see his followers wanted to do more than look; they were ready to become customers. La Rosa was already delivering packages for other people; why not deliver his own food, too? Salvos was born.

Every week brings something new: fried zucchini with mortadella, eggplant with mozzarella, or prosciutto with stracciatella and figs. Hes also sold jars of caponata, arancini inspired by his dads childhood in Sicily, and lasagna with Bolognese. For the sandwiches (which range in price from $14 to $17), he adheres to a simpler-is-better philosophy: I like to stick to around three ingredients, he says. Whenever people are mixing two or three different types of meats  thats just overloaded. If a place has something like the Godfather on the menu, Im always a little wary of it.

The menu changes every week. Photo: Michael Stone

La Rosa officially launched Salvos this past June with a chicken-cutlet sub featuring mozzarella and marinated artichokes. Shout out to my Mamma for helping me craft this weeks menu, he wrote. Since then, hes become something of a sandwich savant: He marinates artichokes and zucchini himself; meat comes from different sources, like soppressata from Goode & Local, a Hudson Valley company run by a friends dad. Now, he has friends bring back hard-to-find ingredients from Italy, too, like Caciocavallo cheese; dried salami; and strattu, a dense, concentrated tomato paste from Sicily. The rolls, meanwhile, come from the Ridgewood bakery Monreale, where his family would go when visiting an uncle in Queens. Its not cute or charming at all. Its almost sterile, he says. You question whether theyre even open, but it doesnt matter because the bread is delicious.

Salvos, La Rosa is happy to explain, isnt a one-man operation. He uses family recipes, like a pasta Genovese, that he happily messes with. His mom Antonia is always present, if not always physically. She was in the kitchen with him the first week; more often, theyre hashing out recipes on the phone.

She grew up near Arthur Avenue, and La Rosa would make regular trips there as a kid. Restaurants werent a regular feature of his childhood in New Rochelle, though. Instead, he remembers years where three generations of his family lived under one roof, and one September weekend where the kids would be recruited to help make the sauce for the winter. There was a big swimming pool where we washed all the tomatoes, and we did it by letting all the kids splash around in the pool, he says. Its pretty disgusting to think about it, but thats how I got involved, and then I started cooking.

Now 30, La Rosa spent his first six years out of college working at the downtown design agency GrandArmy before leaving in 2021 to freelance, launching his own design studio and starting a punk band, Mirage. (Their songs are driven by hammering percussion and forceful vocals from La Rosa, who sings in both Italian and English.) Finding out that strangers want to buy his food has been trippy, he says, and he has some regulars now, too; remote work means theres a built-in audience in a part of town that isnt exactly known for its robust weekday-lunch options.

When La Rosa rolled up to my block recently to hand me a sandwich (mortadella with burrata and crushed pistachios), we started talking about his band and recent trips hed taken to Sicily. A lot of young people, he said, have been moving to Palermo, and he was excited about the music scene there. But before I could ask why, he was off; he had more sandwiches to deliver that day.

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The Matao, Guams senior mens national soccer team, goes against Singapore in the second leg of the FIFA World Cup 26 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Joint Preliminary Qualification Round 1.
Guam Animals in Need president Lauren Cabrera and Del. James Moylan are calling on United Airlines to resume a pet shipping program for the civilian community that was discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic, and later revived but only for departing military personnel.

Currently, United allows military personnel who leave Guam on permanent change of orders to ship up to four pets on its flight to Hawaii, where arrangements are made to transfer to another mainland-bound carrier.

Cabrera said they want United to extend the same opportunity to the civilian community.

Its borderline discriminatory, she said.

Moylan, in a recent letter to United Airlines President and CEO Scott Kirby, said when it comes to a bond between individuals and their pets, there is no distinction in whether the individual wears a uniform or not.

Moylan also wrote that United has a pet travel policy within the 50 contiguous states, which makes him wonder why Guam, a U.S. territory, is excluded from this policy.

While we understand that this is your business policy, we do hope that on behalf of our constituents, that there will be some consideration for our civilian population, Moylan told Kirby in that letter.

Cabrera said there are foreign carriers that are willing to ship pets but because of cabotage laws, you cannot ship your pets on a foreign carrier between two U.S. points.

According to Cabrera, United discontinued its pet shipping program several years ago because of an incident in which a dog was placed in an overhead bin by a flight attendant and died.

The program was brought back after the pandemic but only for military personnel.

Cabrera said she has reached out repeatedly to United executives on Guam, and at the corporate office in the U.S. mainland.

She said this included Uniteds vice-president of government affairs and global public policy Theresa Fariello who, Cabrera said, is also the chairperson of the Humane Rescue Alliance, a national organization dedicated to assisting pet owners.

However, Cabrera said Fariello has not replied to multiple email messages.

Cabrera said if United allows up to four pets to be shipped per flight, that would be up to 1460 that could potentially be saved.

Its heartbreaking that people have to leave their pets behind to be euthanized, Cabrera said.

She said she will continue to push for United to resume its pet shipping program.

As long as Im killing dogs because people are leaving them behind because they cant ship them, I wont stop, Cabrera added.
Supreme Court of Guam Chief Justice Robert J. Torres Jr. has appointed Assistant Attorney General Sean E. Brown to serve as a magistrate for the Judiciary of Guam.

Brown is a dedicated prosecutor, according to Attorney General Douglas Moylan, who said he will be submitting testimony in support of Browns appointment, which requires legislative approval.

I was quite pleased that a dedicated prosecutor from my office was selected by the Judiciary of Guam to serve in such an important position, Moylan said. Seans selection from the peoples law firm further highlights the lack of attorneys in our Guam Bar. Our law firms and the government are needing to beg, borrow and steal from one another to provide legal services.

The Judiciary said Browns appointment anticipates the conclusion of Magistrate Judge Benjamin C. Sison Jr.s second term this October.

In a letter to Speaker Therese M. Terlaje Wednesday afternoon, the chief justice highlighted the selection process and Browns qualifications.

After a rigorous interview process and unanimous recommendation from our panel, I am confident in appointing Attorney Sean E. Brown for the position of magistrate, the chief justice said. His extensive litigation experience, along with his service as a prosecutor, make him exceptionally suited for the demands and duties of a judicial officer.

Brown was chosen from a list of candidates provided by the Guam Bar Association in accordance with local statute.

His professional background includes a decade of service as an assistant attorney general and as an associate attorney in private practice.

Brown has also been actively involved in educational and community service roles, including teaching at the University of Guam and volunteering as a mock trial judge.

The appointment is subject to the approval of the Guam Legislature. Brown remains employed at the AGs office until his confirmation.

The chief justice has urged senators to expedite the confirmation process to ensure the continuity of magistrate duties before Sisons departure.

Henry James, a longtime investigator at the AGs office, said that Browns presence and professionalism will be missed at work.

James has worked hundreds of cases with Brown, and sits in Browns second chair during trial. James did not answer right away when asked which of Browns qualities would serve Guam best.

Hes never up and down, said James. Hes always level headed. Hes got a calm demeanor about himself. Yes, well miss him here, but Im happy for him and happy that he will be staying within the judicial system.

Even those who often sat across from Brown as opposition in the courtroom still respected him. Attorney Peter J. Santos from the Alternate Public Defender regularly butts heads with Brown at trial lately, but he also used to work with Brown putting bad people behind bars.

I was his court partner when I was still prosecuting and we surely were a formidable duo in court, winning all our cases because we were well trained and experienced, said Santos. We knew what to do to prepare and win, and we knew when we needed to fold our hand if the cards we got dealt were very bad. Most of all, we absolutely adhered to our ethical responsibilities. Seans departure is rather unfortunate for the prosecution because he was invaluable up there.

Stephen Hattori, executive director at the Public Defender Service Corp., said he will also offer testimony in support of Browns appointment.

I think he is valued as a prosecutor and will be a tremendous loss. However, he is a fair person who seeks justice and I would like to think he will continue to do so as a judicial officer, said Hattori. But quite frankly the People of Guam need him more as a prosecutor.
It's been almost five years since a November 2019 electrical fire shut down the main Department of Public Health and Social Services facility in Mangilao, and senators on Tuesday grilled DPHSS officials about why the building has remained closed despite the clamor from nursing staff to reopen it.

Public Health officials were at the Legislature for a hearing on their proposed fiscal 2025 budget.

Speaker Therese Terlaje raised concern about nurses who had testified at a previous public hearing that they wanted the building reopened "right away," and that health care, especially for pregnant women, was severely impacted by the closure.

DPHSS acting Director Therese Arriola said in an interview with the PDN last week that she wanted to enter into an agreement to turn over the building to Guam Community College for a nurse education and training center, that would include Public Health nurses.

Several nurses earlier testified that the total number of patient encounters had dropped from 8,331 in 2018 when the Mangilao facility was still open, to only 4,281 in 2023 while it remained closed.

Terlaje also said the insurance company had denied a claim submitted by Public Health, citing no evidence of a fire.

The insurer, according to Terlaje, said the source of the smoke could not be determined, and that there was no evidence of soot or any fire-related damage.

Arriola said she could "appreciate that the insurance agency said there was no fire," but that was contrary to what the Guam Fire Department and the Department of Public Works had concluded.

Terlaje said DPW was supposed to conduct an assessment of the building in January.

Later in the hearing, she said she received notice that DPW would proceed with a request for proposal after finally receiving approval for the RFP from the Office of the Attorney General.

Public Health officials presented a fiscal 2025 spending plan of $237 million, a $42 million increase from last year, mostly to pay for increased personnel costs.

Some $73 million in funding would come from the general fund, while $164 million would come from federal grants-in-aid.

Sen. Joanne Brown questioned why DPHSS is being charged some $600,000 in annual rent at its Hesler Place office location in Hagatna, when the building is owned by the government of Guam.

"That doesn't make any sense," Brown said.

Sen. Chris Barnett also asked about a $2 million budget reduction at the Division of Children's Wellness.

"Isn't there a crisis...are you sure you don't want the $2 million?" Barnett asked acting division chief Heidi Lujan.

"The $2 million reduction is us being realistic on our expenditures," Lujan said in response to Barnett's question.

Lujan said while they need it, the division has been faced with challenges with procurement and contracting.

"Realistically, keeping it status quo, we're still going to live within our means...we're going to continue with all our services, and we do have an opportunity to offset with federal dollars," Lujan added.

Earlier, DPHSS's Arriola said many of their contracts were being held up at the AG's office, which is locked in a legal battle with the governor's office over whether the AG can represent agencies in civil matters and still prosecute agency heads in criminal corruption cases.
The Guam Police Department advises residents to expect an increase in visiting military personnel during a port call by the Nimitz-class, nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan and other Allied military vessels, with approximately 8,000 service personnel spending their shore leave in local hotels and business establishments from June 19 thru June 21, 2024.
As time passes, memories fade but Hannah Reny still remembers Tiffany Nelsons face.

Its the face of a teenage girl, who at the age of 19, told her she had to take care of her mother, and dancing at a strip club in South Florida could earn her the money the family needed to get by.

Tiffany Nelson is seen in a photo posted to the Justice for Tiffany Nelson Facebook page on Jan. 18, 2015.Justice for Tiffany Nelson Facebook page

For a time, Reny and Tiffany worked at the same club, Flashdance in West Palm Beach. Reny said she would share her clothing with Tiffany and when she was sick she would take care of her.

I would try to help her because she was on heroin and other drugs, and only about 19 years old, Reny said I was a little bit older than her and I had already gotten off drugs, so I was a like role model for her, I guess.

She doesnt know much more about Tiffanys life before she ended up in this dark place, because, as she puts it, Tiffany was often drunk and drugged around her so they only talked about whatever was happening in the present moment.

Her face was so precious, and she was so young for an industry like that, Reny said. I felt really bad for her. She just looked at me with the saddest, defeated face all the time and every single time I saw her she was crying.

Reny, who had been in the industry for a while working in various clubs, says shes witnessed a lot of girls go downhill with the drugs and die.

Tiffany eventually left her job at the club to work at Mr. Ts in West Palm Beach. But Reny said she was also walking Dixie Highway, an area shes seen many girls end up.

They do drugs, and they get caught up with bad people down on the east coast in Lake Worth, its called Dixie Highway, Reny said. I think a lot of people just start out with drinking and then they end up doing drugs because of the people they hang out with then they start getting addicted, obviously, and it takes a hold of them.

Authorities discover womans body in garbage bag

On Oct. 29, 2012, the body of a 20-year old woman was found in an abandoned house in Lake Worth, wrapped in a plastic garbage bag like trash.

She had a tattoo that read Mom and another that read David  a name that helped identify the young woman as Tiffany Nelson.

David was Tiffanys 18-year-old younger brother.

Tiffany died after being stabbed multiple times. Her body was discovered when a neighbor noticed a bad smell and contacted authorities. She was found on the property of a vacant house located at 1328 South L Street in Lake Worth, Florida, just down the street from where she lived, at 628 South L Street. The plastic garbage bag her assailant (or assailants) stuffed her body into had been covered with a painters tarp.

Its been twelve years since her brutal murder, and to this day, no one has been held accountable for it.

At the time of the murder, Kathy Nelson, Tiffanys mother, told the Sun Sentinel that as a girl, Tiffany was always so happy and always smiled. And when sheriffs detectives showed up at her Boynton Beach home to tell her Tiffany was gone, she screamed.

Thankfully, my son was there with me, she told the outlet. He just came up to me and held me. When asked how hes coping with Tiffanys death, David said, Im not.

Reportedly, following her death, mother and son went to post fliers in Tiffanys neighborhood, seeking information and after entering her home through a side door, they found mens clothing and a box of laundry detergent as if somebody had been living there. The outlet also reported that in the days before the killing, one resident saw a man with gray hair yelling at Tiffany on a street corner.

On Jan. 16, 2015, Kathy Nelson created the Facebook page, Justice for Tiffany Nelson. The page intro reads, Needing Closure, for daughters murder. Over the years, shes posted and about missing her daughter, sharing photos from when Tiffany was young.

A photo of Tiffany Nelson as a baby posted to Facebook on May 31, 2016.Justice for Tiffany Nelson Facebook page

A quarter of a century ago you came into this world, two decades later you were taken from it, reads a post from May 31, 2017. Not a day goes by that I dont think of you and your laughter. you are the love of my life. Mommy misses you so much Tiffany and please know that someday there will be Justice for Tiffany Nelson. I love you baby girl forever 20.

Tiffany Nelson is seen in a photo posted to Facebook on Oct. 4, 2015.Justice for Tiffany Facebook Page

She also created a cryptic post on Jan. 9, 2016, in which she states, I know that someone out there knows the 2 ppl involved in this.

And she provides two names, Chico and Dean, posting, Dean is the one that helped Chico move her after he killed her.

Not a day goes by that i don't think of you. You where born a beautiful baby. And grew into a wonderful young adult.... Posted by Justice for Tiffany Nelson on Saturday, January 9, 2016

She also created a GoFundMe memorial account in Jan. 2016, that she stated was started to pay for her remains to come home to her mom, and the rest will go to a scholarship for other young girls that need the help her daughter couldnt get.

It raised just $25.

Growing up her mother said Tiffany loved performing. She was a cheerleader, took martial arts classes and was valedictorian of her fifth grade class.

But everything changed in high school. As reported by the Sun Sentinel, in 2008, when Tiffany was just 16, the family lost their home  and her stepfather, who she was very close to, attempted suicide. He survived that attempt, but later died in 2011 just a year before Tiffany.

Her mother told the outlet that Tiffany began working at a strip club, where she said her daughter wasnt always happy but, The money was excellent and Tiffany made enough to support the family.

Following her death, Reny said homicide detectives came around to ask her a few questions. She had heard that Tiffany was seen with two men when she got into a vehicle and was not seen again until her body was found by the abandoned house.

I dont really remember much because it was a while ago, Reny said. But its very sad her age, how beautiful she was and her circumstances, were very sad. I would do anything to see her face again.

GulfLive.com reached out to the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office with a few questions about the case  and an update or comment on its current status.

Public Information Officer, Teri Barbera responded via email, writing, I have reached out to my detectives for answers to your questions. The report is still open and active, therefore, it cannot be released. I will get back with you soon.

Two hours later, she emailed again, writing, The investigation is still active and ongoing. Please see the Crime Stoppers link below. We do not have any new information to add at this time.

I dont understand how DNA couldnt possibly have been found on her body from the other person, Reny said. Its insane to me that there has not been a DNA match or any information leading to the solving of her case. I dont see why her case is not solvable because of DNA there had to have been something left by the person that did this.

But honestly, she continued, I feel like there couldve been a little more done on her case as far as evidence goes. Im not really sure if they take into consideration the prostitute and the girls that choose to deal with the pimps and drug dealers.

Possibly one day we will get the news that she gets justice, Reny said. Im just waiting because everything that happens in the dark always comes to light, I hope.

Floridas cold case cards

Across Florida, more than 20,000 murders remain unsolved and the fate of approximately 1,744 missing Floridians remains unknown.

The Florida Association of Crime Stoppers hopes a set of cards can help  cold case cards.

Nelson's case is featured as the eight of spades in the latest set of cold case cards issued by Florida Crime Stoppers.FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF CRIME STOPPERS, INC.,

The cards, which can be used for playing, were created to shed light on Floridas unsolved cold cases, through a partnership between Crime Stoppers and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Floridas Department of Corrections and Floridas Attorney General.

Each card in the deck features a photograph and crucial information about a specific case, aiming to generate new leads and ultimately, justice.

This was Tiffany Nelsons story. We will continue to share more stories from the cold case cards  and regularly update Tiffanys story as new details emerge.

Anyone with information about Tiffany Nelsons case or any other cold case featured in the deck, are urged to come forward. You can remain anonymous and there are three ways to share tips.




Haiti - News : Zapping...





Saint-Marc : Arrest of gang leader "Komandan Julio"

Sunday June 16, 2024 the Komandan Julio, thus known, one of the gang leaders of Timonette, (5th municipal section of Saint-Marc (Dept. Artibonite), was arrested, informed the investigation service of the police station of the district of Timonette, of which 4 of its members are already behind bars, specializes in theft of cattle, the hijacking of goods trucks and assassinations. It operates in several municipalities, including Saint-Marc, Grande-Saline, Liancourt, La Chapelle and Verrettes.



Mission : Trudeau meets Ruto

Sunday June 16, 2024, on the sidelines of the Ukraine Peace Summit held in Lucerne, Switzerland, the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau met with the President of Kenya, William Ruto. They discussed the crisis in Haiti and the progress surrounding the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS). Furthermore, they explored together how they could increase their bilateral cooperation to promote the restoration of stability in Haiti.



Dominican aerial surveillance

Saturday morning, a Dominican Air Force plane, a twin-engine Tecnam P2006T SMP adapted to reconnaissance and surveillance missions * (Range of action of 1,100 km), flew over Saturday morning, in Dominican airspace, near the canal built in Haiti to irrigate the Maribaroux plain. According to the Dominican army, this was "routine aerial surveillance" which is carried out in this border area and along the coast of the Dominican Republic and has nothing to do with the Haitian Canal.



We must accelerate the deployment of the Mission...

"We must accelerate the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission to help the Haitian National Police restore security in Haiti, and provide its personnel with appropriate training in child protection" The Office Integrated United Nations in Haiti (BINUH)



Words of sympathy from Minister SUZAN

"I would like to express my deep sympathy to the thousands of women who have been killed, attacked, raped, kidnapped, dispossessed, impoverished, or who find themselves refugees in unsuitable camps. To those who have become widows, mourning the assassination of a husband, a child, a father, a mother or other close relatives, I want to say that we will not forget them and that our fight for justice and dignity will continue."



Humanitarian : WFP organizes cargo flights

Through the "Logistics Cluster", the World Food Program (WFP) supports the entire humanitarian sector by organizing cargo flights. On Monday 2 flights landed in Port-au-Prince carrying 55 tonnes of medicine, shelter and hygiene materials, which will be used to help displaced people and to prepare for the response to the hurricane season.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : Blinken uses the nuclear option and releases 109 million for the Kenyan Mission and the PNH





After being blocked for months by Republicans from funding a security mission in Haiti, Secretary of State Antony Blinken ordered the State Department to release $109 million to help Kenyan special forces police officers deploy in Haiti and the Haitian National Police (PNH) to fight armed gangs.



Blinken's decision, known as the "nuclear option," reverses the Republican hold on funds, which delayed the mission's deployment. With Blinken's permission, there is now money to purchase equipment that a Kenyan security assessment team says is needed before officers arrive in Port-au-Prince.



On Capitol Hill, aides to two Republican lawmakers, Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas and Sen. Jim Risch of Idaho, questioned the plan. Lawmakers last month also lambasted President Joe Biden for authorizing a $60 million military aid package using so-called presidential withdrawal authority to put guns and ammunition into people's hands of the PNH https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42270-haiti-flash-$60-million-of-american-military-equipment-for-the-mission-some-details.html and to help the led force by Kenya to deploy.



Despite these efforts, hopes of a deployment last month were dashed after a Kenyan assessment team, visiting Port-au-Prince to assess the country's readiness to receive the mission, said that there were not enough armored vehicles to move foreign troops, and a deficit of radios and communications equipment. The team also stressed the need to use helicopters to evacuate the injured. https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-42406-haiti-flash-new-delay-kenyan-forces-will-arrive-in-haiti-in-3-weeks.html



The State Department official said the $109 million will be used to cover equipment, and noted that the U.S. government has been able to provide additional armored vehicles and radios through various sources to address some issues raised and enable the mission to reach its full capacity and be sustained over time. Even if the mission is expected to include up to 2,500 men, the police will be deployed in stages.



Without providing details, the State Department official said the new funding "is essential to enable mission success and to enable the Haitian National Police to combat gang violence."



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : Imminent deployment of the Mission, a PNH delegation to the Kenyan





Tuesday June 18, 2024, a delegation of the Haitian National Police (PNH) led by Divisional Commissioner Joachim Prophete, was in Nairobi, Kenya to discuss the imminent deployment in Haiti of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS) in Haiti.



The Inspector General (IG) of the Kenyan police Japhet Koome, speaking after meeting the Haitian delegation on Tuesday, reiterated to the delegation, his commitment to the mission in Haiti "he National Police Service (NPS) remains committed to collaboration in the mission, for the good of the people of Haiti, especially women and children," Koome said.



Joachim Prophete assured him that Haiti would give the Kenyan contingent all the necessary support to make the mission a success and declared "We are counting on your support for the good of the people of Haiti, especially women and children."



The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Inspector General(DIG) of the Kenya Police Service, Douglas Kanja KIROCHO, and the DIG, Noor Gabow, of the Administration Police Service which is the principal NPS officer of the mission in Haiti.



These discussions aimed to ensure perfect coordination between the security forces of the two nations as part of the multinational mission.



Currently, preparations are underway and Kenyan officers are expected to leave the country for Haiti in the coming days.



SL/ HaitiLibre


















Apple's first major update for visionOS has been met with positive reviews so far. Both developers Mac & i has spoken to and media representatives have praised the update for the Vision Pro, which has been available as a developer beta since last week. Although visionOS 2.0 is not a huge leap from the current version 1.2, it does contain many minor improvements that make the headset easier to use. "It works very, very well," comments Mac & i-Vision Pro expert Mark Zimmermann, who would have hoped for more in some areas.

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Small plus fine = worthwhile

For example, Apple receives praise for the operating improvements implemented in visionOS 2.0. In future, it will no longer be necessary to constantly press a button with your hand to access the home screen; instead, a simple new hand gesture will suffice. Such a gesture is now also provided for calling up the time, the battery status and the control center - for the latter, you previously always had to look up, which could lead to contortions. For the first time, it is also possible to arrange the home screen icons as desired. Obviously, there are still no folders and icons cannot be taken from the folder with the iPad and iOS apps. But the free sorting option alone is a great benefit.

In future, Apple keyboards and MacBooks will also be looped through in immersive mode (e.g. when the environment is active). This means you no longer have to type blindly. It is still unclear whether keyboards from other providers will also be supported - Apple could theoretically at least integrate known models. In terms of environments, Apple has finally delivered one of the missing ones: the South Pacific landscape of Bora-Bora. It is unclear when the last missing environment will arrive - apparently creating it involves a lot of technical effort. Improvements to the guest mode are also useful. This can now be saved so that you don't have to constantly reset it. Finally, visionOS 2.0 can calculate spatial photos from 2D images. This works surprisingly well.

Functions that are still missing

The new Mac Virtual Display mode has not yet been tested. This now allows a panorama mode with a resolution of two 4K screens. The connection speed and stability are also said to have been improved. The function makes it possible to operate Macs via the Vision Pro and thus use all the apps available there. Copy & Paste is supported and the Mac can also be used to operate the Vision Pro.

There was also praise for the stability of the visionOS 2.0 beta. Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman wrote that he found the update more stable than the current release of the operating system. "The visionOS 2 beta is in better shape than any previous public visionOS release." Vision Pro will be released in Germany next month.

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Heikki Aspegren , the defence counsel of Lamsa, said his client admitted to the stabbing during the detention hearing but denied the claim that his intention was to kill the victim, reported YLE.

THE DISTRICT COURT of Oulu on Monday detained Sebastian Lamsa , 33, for probable cause of two attempted murders over a stabbing that occurred in Valkea Shopping Centre in Oulu on Thursday, 13 June 2024.

The defendant, he added, also denied the allegation that the stabbing had a racist motive.

The stabbing took place out of the blue at about 6.35pm on Thursday, with the defendant stabbing a 12-year-old child repeatedly from behind before running after a 14-year-old child fleeing the scene of the incident. Both victims are Finnish nationals of foreign background, according to YLE.

Oulu Police Department on Tuesday revealed that the 12-year-old victim has recovered to the extent that investigators have been able to interview them.

Lamsa has ties to the Nordic Resistance Movement, a neo-Nazi organisation that was banned by the Supreme Court of Finland in 2020. He has been found guilty of pepper-spraying a left-wing politician in Oulu in 2012 and stabbing a person at the launch event of a book about the far right in a library in Jyvaskyla, Central Finland, in 2013.

He has stated also to interrogators that he dropped out of all that kinds of activity in February 2018, Aspegren said on Monday.

Li Andersson, the chairperson of the Left Alliance, on Monday called on the government to shed light on its assessment of the threat posed by the far right. The Left Alliance, she reminded, made a similar demand last year in the wake of reports about a number of foiled far-right plots in Finland.

This shows that [the far right] is a threat. Its really shocking that a child is targeted in an act of political violence, she was quoted saying in Turku by YLE. The minister of the interior should first be more clear about the kind of a threat the government believes the far right to be. Id like to hear what kind of action the government is ready to take.

Andersson on Friday reminded that the suspect was a core member of a since banned far-right group, the events of which were attended by several members of the Finns Party, including Members of the Finnish Parliament.

The Finns Party cant evade discussion about the far right in Finland if it purports to take Finlands security seriously, she wrote on X.

Minister of the Interior Mari Rantanen (PS) on Friday described the stabbing as horrible and dismissed attempts to tie the incident to her party as unscrupulous. We arent sweeping any kind of extremism under the rug, she stressed to YLE.

Rantanen acknowledged that the far right and far-right violence are a risk to public safety, referring to risk assessments by the Finnish Security and Intelligence Service (Supo).

The risk exists specifically in regards to acts by individuals and small groups. Weve long known that we have extremist activists, she said, reminding that the pre-trial incident into the stabbing remains ongoing.

Supo on Monday stated to YLE that the number of far-right activists on its list of counter-terrorism targets has increased in the past five years. Most of the roughly 350 individuals on the list, though, are radical Islamists.

The number of targets varies constantly, and the number cited in any threat assessment reflects the situation at a particular point in time. It does provide an indication of the development at scale, however, a spokesperson said to the public broadcasting company.

The profile  rather than the number  of counter-terrorism targets is more relevant for the threat assessments, according to Supo.

Some of the targets are assessed to have both the ability and motivation to carry out a violent attack, and their number is more relevant than the total number on the list for the threat of terrorism, the spokesperson explained.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
Speakers implore commissioners to fully fund K-12 schools

Henderson County public schools are underfunded, teachers, a high school student, School Board candidates and other supporters of public education said Wednesday as they implored the county Board of Commissioners to grant the school system its full funding request.

Public education, like most human endeavors, is not perfect or easy but there are ways to improve it, Jack Gillette said. The rise of private and charter schools is taking more money away from traditional public schools, he said, adding, The state of North Carolina wants to use even more of our tax money to support private schools.

Legislators are turning their backs on public schools and are now actively supporting legislation that is financially crippling our kids opportunities, Joe Elliott said. Buncombe Countys teacher supplement is 53 percent higher than Henderson Countys and starting salaries here are the lowest among eight Southeastern states.

School Board candidate Mary Ellen Kustin urged commissioners to fund more social workers in the schools  as school employees and not Department of Social Services employees.

League of Women Voters President Ernest Mowell said: The League recognizes that strong schools mean strong communities. The League believes Henderson County schools should be fully funded at the requested level. If it is not, schools will have fewer teachers, less staff and a diminished education experience. Public schools have a more direct and profound impact than any other single project that we have," he said. "Only your strong leadership can keep Henderson County public schools strong and you can do that by approving their funding request.

School Board candidate Rhonda Mountain is the mother of three children in the public schools, including a special needs daughter. Without the support of her teachers and support staff she would not have graduated from Henderson County schools, she said. The county has 14,033 students in public schools, compared with 1,016 in 13 private schools. You are greatly underfunding our public schools, she said. They have a right to a fair and quality education. Im here to ask you to please fund our public schools.

Chris Walters said, When it comes to funding the school budget, most of the problems come from Raleigh. The current Legislature has adopted tax policy that favors the wealthy and corporations, he said, at the expense of K-12 schools.

Melinda Lowrance, president of the county NAACP chapter, spoke in favor of cost-of-living pay raises for all county employees. We support maintaining social workers in the schools, she said. We do not support the school vouchers for private school tuition. This is a ploy used to segregate our public schools not only racially but economically as well  the haves and the have-nots.

Dorothy Callaway thanked the board for drafting a budget that keeps taxes level and cautioned against adding $5 million to it for public schools. I applaud the county manager and commissioners for looking at the entire county and recognizing that it is not just about one squeaky wheel, she said.

Later, during discussion of the FY25 budget, Commissioner Bill Lapsley said there was no support for the implication by some speakers that low pay was causing a mass exodus of teachers from Henderson County. Schools Superintendent Mark Garrett said the chief competitor for schoolteachers is Buncombe County and, increasingly, Greenville County, South Carolina.

What Im hearing you say is you have normal attrition, retirements, and youre filling those positions, Lapsley said. Ten vacancies out of 900 is not a huge movement of people from our county. I just dont agree with the position that thats a serious problem.

Garrett agreed.

When we look at the region, were one of the better districts in turnover rate, he said.

The countys 5.7 percent attrition rate ranks 23rd in the state while the Henderson County teacher supplement is 25th highest, Commissioner Michael Edney said.
County wins grant to buy medical disaster support trailer

Henderson County will get a Disaster Medical Support Trailer thanks to a $106,513 grant from the North Carolina Emergency Management, the agency announced. Transylvania County won a $121,040 grant for a Disaster Shelter Capacity Building Project.

The North Carolina General Assembly appropriated $1,925,578 to the NCEM's Capacity Building Competitive Grant Program with the purpose to provide funding for building local emergency management capabilities, closing preparedness, response, or recovery gaps and to assist local emergency management agencies across the state with building capacity to effectively respond to all-hazards. To be eligible for the grants, counties must have a population of 230,000 or fewer.

I would like to thank all of the applicants for taking the time to submit projects that will increase local capacity and ultimately build more resilient communities NCEM Director Will Ray said. North Carolina is fortunate to have such dedicated local emergency managers that always seek opportunities to build capacity to effectively respond and recover to any threat or hazard.
In an interview with Advocate A M Iktear Uddin (Anik), a highly regarded lawyer based in Bangalore, partner of law firm known as Prime Legal, www.primelegal.in .We aim to delve into his extensive experience in the field of law, particularly in handling over 30,000 cybercrime cases globally. Recognized and rewarded by various state police departments for his contributions in nabbing cybercriminals, Advocate Anik is also an integral part of the close knit working group established under the Ministry of Home Affairs to combat cybercrime. We seek his insights on the challenges posed by cybercrime and effective strategies to address them.

What is cybercrime

A crime which takes place by using computers, networks, or digital devices. typically involve the intention to harm someone

What are Cyber Threats and Crimes?

Crimes include:-

A. Cyber Fraud Deceptive practices online to gain access to sensitive information or financial resources.

B. Identity Theft: Stealing personal information, such as Social account details or credit card details, to impersonate someone else or commit fraud.

C. Phishing: Sending fraudulent emails or messages that appear to be from trustable sources like banks to trick individuals into revealing information.

D. Malware, Ransomware and Cyber Espionage Attacks:- to steal data, or gain unauthorized access to systems to gain sensitive information.

E. Cyber Bullying: Harassing, threatening, or intimidating individuals through digital platforms, often using social media or whats apps.

F. Cyberstalking: Using the internet to harass or stalk individuals.

G. Intellectual Property Theft: Stealing creative works, inventions, or proprietary information.

H. Man-in-the-Middle

What Motivates Cybercriminals as per your experience?

Most of the time we find this happens for financial gain, personal grievances, or the desire for recognition and power.

How Do Cyber Crimes Take place?

As we discussed the methods above, they predominantly exploit trust, where attackers breach the victim's trust through these methods.

We encounter cases where individuals record private moments of victims during video calls and later blackmail them for money. Other methods include sharing OTPs, capturing screens, clicking malicious links, and various other approaches.

Important Acts and Sections:

Information Technology Act, 2000: Primary legislation in India dealing with cybercrimes and electronic commerce.

Indian Penal Code 1860 ( set to change toThe Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita (BNS2)

We are not mentioning any sections to avoid complications with the new law

What Should a Victim of Cybercrime Do Immediately?

Immediately secure your accounts by changing passwords, documenting the incident, and preserving all evidence.

Report the incident to the authorities by filing a complaint on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Include all relevant details, such as bank account information, transaction IDs, and a comprehensive statement of the issue. If the fraud involves financial transactions, inform the bank's cybercrime team.

Write a detailed complaint with evidence Visit the police or a cyber crime station and file a complaint there as well..

If necessary, seek advice from a lawyer or advocate experienced in handling cybercrime cases.

It's important for the victim to maintain regular contact with the assigned investigating officer to stay informed about the progress of the investigation, recovery efforts, and any other relevant updates.

How Does Police/ Law Enforcement Track Cybercriminals?

In cases of financial and other frauds, police/law enforcement authorities send emails to banks' nodal officers to request the sharing of account holder details, debit freeze of the accounts ( for various layers), and other pertinent information. They are also actively engaged in digital forensics, analysing digital evidence from devices, tracking IP addresses to identify the source of cyber activities, and employing various other investigative methods.

Can you share the meaning of Layered Transactions.

In nearly all financial cybercrimes, I've observed that once criminals successfully transfer money, they swiftly move it through multiple accounts, a process known as peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions. The initial transaction is labelled as Layer 1, with subsequent transactions named accordingly in sequence.

How Can we Protect ourselves from Cyber Threats?

a. Create strong passwords: Combine letters, numbers, and symbols for enhanced security.

b. Enable two-factor authentication: Adds an extra layer of protection to your accounts.

c. Keep software updated: Regular updates patch vulnerabilities.

d. Avoid suspicious links and emails: Protect against phishing attacks. Never share OTPs without verification.

e. Use antivirus software: Safeguard against malware and other threats.

f. Establish security policies: Clear guidelines for data protection and privacy.

g. Conduct regular security audits: Identify and fix vulnerabilities proactively

h. Provide cybersecurity training: Educate employees on best practices.

i. Backup data regularly: Ensure continuity of business operations.

How can the victim of cyber crime fraud release funds from the court?

To proceed with your request after confirming with your case investigating officer that the funds have been blocked, follow these steps:

A. Consult a Lawyer: Share the details of your case with a lawyer.

B. Signature on Vakalatnama: Your lawyer will obtain your signature on a Vakalatnama.

C. File a Release Application: The lawyer will file a release application in the concerned court.

D. Court Process: The court will schedule a hearing to review the public prosecutor's report, known as CD (case details) reports.

E. Police Report: The police will provide the necessary information to the public prosecutor, who will then submit the report to the court.

F. Argument and Order: Your lawyer will present arguments in court to obtain a release order for the funds.

G. Conditions: The court may order the release of the funds with certain conditions.

What is your advice to the general public and government on cyber crime-related issues?

I urge the government to enhance public awareness and implement legislation requiring network service providers and bank account holders to share robust KYC (Know Your Customer) information.

Every citizen should prioritize their safety by exercising caution, monitoring financial activities, and promptly reporting any suspected cyber crime to the police or consulting a lawyer.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.
Gautam Adani- Adani Group chairman- said that India is on the brink of an unprecedented economic boom within the next decade as the country could start adding trillion dollars to its GDP every 12 to 18 months. This could make India a $30 trillion economy by 2050, Gautam Adani said while speaking at Crisil Ratings' Annual Infrastructure Summit where he highlighted country's accelerated growth trajectory. Adani Group Chairperson Gautam Adani addresses the gathering at CRISIL Ratings Annual Infrastructure Summit, in Mumbai.(PTI)

It took 58 years for India to achieve its first trillion dollars in GDP, 12 years for the second trillion and just five years for the third trillion, Gautam Adani said attributing the progress to India's effective government reforms. He said, "At this pace, we expect to add a trillion dollars to our GDP every 12 to 18 months within the next decade. This will position us as a $30 trillion economy by 2050, with a stock market capitalization exceeding $40 trillion."

"No other nation is poised for such scale and opportunity. This is the best time to be an Indian," he asserted.

Pointing out massive infrastructure growth in the country, he said, Our infrastructure capex cycle is unlike anything seen before, laying the groundwork for decades of growth.

Gautam Adani also said that the Adani Group intends to invest over a $100 billion in the energy transition space.

"We are confident that we will produce the worlds least expensive green electron that will become the feedstock for several sectors that must meet the sustainability mandate. And to make this happen, we are already building the worlds largest single site renewable energy park in Khavda, in the district of Kutch," he said.
Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani said that liberalisation policy announced in 1991 laid the foundation for India's infrastructure story and then the eventual take-off has taken in the last decade. Speaking at a CRISIL event in Mumbai, he said, If the period between 1991 and 2014 was about putting down the foundations and building the runway the period from 2014 to 2024 has been about the aircraft taking off. Prime Minister Narendra Modi with former PM Manmohan Singh.

Praising the liberalisation policy tweak announced by the then-Finance Minister Manmohan Singh, he said, The breaking down of the License Raj meant that the government did away with industrial licensing for most sectors. It eliminated much of the requirement for businesses to obtain government permission to invest, or set prices, or build capacity.

In the last decade, India's has witnessed significant progress in the infrastructure sector whose 'single most important catalyst' is the quality of governance in the country. He said, Indias remarkable infrastructure journey is fundamentally rooted in this governments effectiveness in institutionalizing policy for transforming our nation's landscapefrom one of challengesto one of possibilities.

Read more: Air India focuses on premium position with premium economy in domestic skies

Comparing this to an 'aircraft taking off', Gautam Adani spoke of the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and said that its core essence is its integrated approach involving participation from both the public and private sectors with the funding model divided between the two. I consider the NIP program that has earmarked a projected investment of Rs. 111 lakh crore over the period FY20-25 as a benchmark of how a government can put in place a national view of over 9,000 infrastructure projects across sectors like energy, logistics, water, airports, and social infrastructure.

Gautam Adani also said that the Adani Group intends to invest over a $100 billion in the energy transition space.

"We are confident that we will produce the worlds least expensive green electron that will become the feedstock for several sectors that must meet the sustainability mandate. And to make this happen, we are already building the worlds largest single site renewable energy park in Khavda, in the district of Kutch," he said.
Melina French Gates reflected on divorce from Bill Gates and said that the couple separated first before making the final decision in 2021. She said, You know, I separated first before I made the full decision about a divorce. And to be able to do that in private while Im still trying to take care of the kids, while still making certain decisions about how youre going to disentangle your life - thank God. Philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates (R) and his ex-wife Melinda at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France.

Talking about the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, she acknowledged that her split was ultimately more of a personal thing" but she was always worried about the couple's children.

Melinda French Gates on her children

She said, I thought a lot about my three children. But I certainly thought about the effect on the foundation. Those are the three biggest buckets: me, the kids, and the foundation. And I wanted to make sure that when we came through it to the other side - when I came through it on my side - all of those pieces were intact.

Melinda French Gates on life after divorce

She added, Getting a divorce is a horrible thing. Its just painful. Its awful when you realize you need one."

But since the divorce it has been wonderful. Ill just leave it there, she said, adding, I live in a neighborhood. Now I can walk to little stores. I can walk to the drugstore, I can walk to a restaurant. I absolutely love it.

Melinda French Gates on her charity work

On exiting the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation after more than two decades to do her own charitable work, she said, I was just ready to be able to have full decision-making control about where all the funds go."

Melinda French Gates also talked about Bill Gates' friendship with child sex trafficker Jeffery Epstein saying, I did not like that he had meetings with Jeffery Epstein. I made that clear to him. I also met Jeffrey Epstein exactly one time. I wanted to see who this man was and I regretted it from the second I stepped in the door."
As the UKs billionaire Hinduja family battles possible jail terms for alleged human trafficking and staff exploitation at their Swiss villa, a Livemint report takes a look at who they are and what companies they own. Indian-Swiss billionaire family members Namrata Hinduja (3rdR) and Ajay Hinduja (2ndR) arrive at the Geneva's courthouse with their lawyers Yael Hayat (L) and Robert Assael (2ndL) at the opening day of their trial for human trafficking on January 15, 2024. (AFP)

Who are the Hindujas?

The Hinduja family, which controls the Hinduja Group with interests in trucks, lubricants, banking and cable television among others, was worth $20 billion as of November 2023, according to Forbes.

The family was the seventh richest in India in 2023, the 146th richest in the world in 2022, and were dropped off the list in 2023. They were also the 12th richest in Asia in 2017.

Gopichand Hinduja, the second oldest Hinduja sibling, took over as chairman after his older brother Srichand Hinduja died in May 2023. All the remaining three siblings are British citizens, with Gopichand living in London, Prakash in Monaco and Ashok in Mumbai.

Also Read | Hindujas spent more on pet dog than a servants salary, kept their passports: Couldnt leave house'

The history

The Hinduja brothers' father, Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja, started off trading goods in Shikarpur town in the Sindh region of British India (now Pakistan), later moving his merchant banking and trade businesses to Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1914 and opening an international office in Iran in 1919, according to the companys official website.

The brothers shifted their base to London in 1979, where it remains to this day. The website claims the group employs 200,000 people worldwide.

The eldest son, Srichand P Hinduja, took over in November 1935, and is credited with founding IndusInd Bank.

Current Chairman Gopichand took the helm in May 2023 and is credited with the Group's forays into the power and infrastructure sectors.

The Hinduja Group companies

Hinduja Housing Finance Ltd

Ashok Leyland

Switch Mobility

Ashok Leyland Foundries  a division of Ashok Leyland, also known as Hinduja Foundries

P D Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre

Hinduja Healthcare Limited

Hinduja Bank (Switzerland) Ltd (formerly Amas Bank)

IndusInd Bank

Hinduja Leyland Finance Ltd

Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd

Hinduja Tech Ltd

GOCL Corporation Ltd

Gulf Oil International Ltd

Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited

Quaker-Houghton International Ltd

Gulf Oil Middle East Ltd

Hinduja National Power Corporation Ltd

Hinduja Renewables Energy Private Ltd

Hinduja Realty Ventures Ltd

Hinduja Group India Limited

KPB Hinduja College of Commerce

NXTDIGITAL Ltd (formerly Hinduja Ventures Ltd)  includes Nxtdigital Hits, OneOTT iNtertainment Ltd, INE, and INDigital

Cyqurex Systems Private Limited

British Metal Corporation (India) Pvt Ltd

Hinduja Investments and Project Services Ltd

Also Read | Ajay Hinduja on Swiss human-trafficking trial says nanny was like a second mum to family

The scandal

Ajay Hinduja, his wife Namrata Hinduja, and Ajay Hindujas parents Prakash and Kamal Hinduja, are accused of spending more on their pet dog than on one of their servants, according to a Swiss prosecutor, Bloomberg reported.

The prosecutor, Yves Bertossa, is pushing for prison sentences of up to five and a half years over alleged trafficking and exploitation of Indian staff at their villa on Lake Geneva.

One woman reportedly earned as little as 7 Swiss francs ( 660.5) for an 18-hour workday, seven days a week. Meanwhile, a budget document titled Pets" revealed that the family spent 8,584 Swiss francs ( 8.1 lakh) annually on their dog.

The Hinduja family's lawyers countered Bertossa's claims and argued that remuneration included board and lodgings and not just cash. Lawyer Yael Hayat, representing Ajay Hinduja, claimed the prosecutor exaggerated the working hours, adding that one worker considered the Geneva pay favourable compared to India.

During the trial, Ajay testified he was unaware of the detailed working conditions as the Hinduja Group in India managed recruitment. He noted that staff are now hired locally through a third party and not informally.

Bertossa has called for five-and-a-half-year sentences for Prakash and Kamal and four and a half years for Ajay and his wife, Namrata. He also demanded the family pay 1 million Swiss francs ( 9.43 crore) in court costs and 3.5 million francs ( 33.02 crore) into a compensation fund for the staff.

The criminal trial continues despite the family reaching a deal last week that led to the three plaintiffs dropping their civil case.

Also Read | Swiss cheese, chocolate, watches will soon become cheaper. Know how
Kannada actor and the accused in a murder case, Darshan Thoogudeepas manager Sridhar, died by suicide on Tuesday at the actors farmhouse in Bengaluru, reported The Times of India. Sridhar also left a suicide note and requested police not to involve his family members in the suicide investigation. Actor Darshan's manager died by suicide in Bengaluru farm house

Also Read - Who is Pavithra Gowda, held in a murder case with Kannada actor Darshan | 5 points

According to the report, the suicide note left by Sridhar said that he took the extreme step after failing to deal with the loneliness. He also released a video message and urged the police officials not to drag his family members into this case. Police are trying to find any connection between Sridhars suicide and the murder case of Renukaswamy, who was allegedly killed by Darshan and his gang.

Bengaluru police are investigating actor Darshan, his friend Pavitra Gowda, and other accused. The autopsy report of 33-year-old victim Renukaswamy showed that he sustained 15 grievous injuries all over his body  including his head, abdomen and chest pointing.

Renukaswamy was killed in a shed used to park seized vehicles in south-western Bengaluru on 9 June, and his body was dumped in a stormwater drain 10km away, police have said. The motive for the crime, according to police, was that Renukaswamy, who lived in Chitradurga, 200km from Bengaluru, trolled Gowda on social media platforms, enraging her and Darshan.

During the investigation, police also recovered several objects that were used to torture the victim, including wooden logs, a leather belt, and a rope.

If you need support or know someone who does, please reach out to your nearest mental health specialist. Helplines: Aasra: 0222754 6669; Sneha India Foundation: +914424640050 and Sanjivini: 011-24311918, Roshni Foundation (Secunderabad) Contact Nos: 040-66202001, 040-66202000, ONE LIFE: Contact No: 78930 78930, SEVA: Contact No: 09441778290.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar today said 1 lakh would be allocated for each taluk to celebrate Kempe Gowda Jayanthi.  1 lakh for each taluk to celebrate Kempe Gowda Jayanthi: DK Shivakumar

Speaking to reporters after a preparatory meeting on Kempe Gowda Jayanthi celebrations in Vidhana Soudha, he said, "Each taluk will be given 1 lakh to celebrate Kempe Gowda Jayanthi. Each Assembly constituency would be allocated 1 lakh to conduct symposiums on Kempe Gowda for school students."

Also Read - Actor Darshan's manager died by suicide in Bengaluru farm house

" 20,000 for cultural activities and 20,000 for taluk centres is given. An additional amount of 1 lakh would be given to each taluk. An amount of 50,000 was given to district headquarters to conduct Kempe Gowda Jayanthi, we are thinking of increasing that amount," he said."It has been decided to conduct the 515th Jayanthi of Kempe Gowda either in Palace Grounds or another venue on June 27. Like every year, a parade of torch lights would come from all directions of Bengaluru including Huliyurudurga, Magadi, Avathi, etc," he said.

He said a selection committee under the leadership of B L Shankar has been formed to select achievers for the Kempe Gowda Award. The Kempe Gowda awards would be given collectively by the Kannada and Culture Department, BDA and BBMP.

"We have prepared a report to develop Kempe Gowda's tomb and fort. It will be developed as a tourist spot. Ten acres have been allotted to develop Kempe Gowda's birthplace in Devanahalli. A land of 5 acres has been sanctioned near Summanahalli to set up the office of Kempe Gowda Authority. Groundbreaking ceremony for the office would be done on the Jayanthi itself," he said.

"Kempe Gowda should not be limited to a particular community and his Jayanthi must be celebrated in a secular way across communities. We don't want this Jayanthi to be a government function but a people's function. Basava Jayanthi is being celebrated by Lingayats and Ambedkar Jayanthi is being done by scheduled castes and tribes. Kempe Gowda Jayanthi must be celebrated across communities. About 100 suggestions have come to us, we will evaluate them and take them forward," he said.

He also took a dig over the previous BJP government and said that the statue of Kempe Gowda was inaugurated in a hurry by the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi).

"People from across the country have become fans of Bengaluru's weather, culture and educational institutions. Vikasa Soudha and Udyoga Soudha were built during SM Krishna's time, but after that Bengaluru has been lagging in tourism development. We need to explore newer ways. The previous government had erected a statue of Kempe Gowda near the airport but the works around were not completed as it was inaugurated by the Prime Minister in a hurry. Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda and District In-charge Minister KH Muniyappa will be overseeing development works around the Kempe Gowda statue near airport," he added.
The death toll in the Almora forest fire incident rose to five on Wednesday after one of the four injured in the incident succumbed to injuries at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. Flames engulf the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary after a massive fire broke out in Almora, Uttarakhand last week. (ANI Photo)

On June 13, four forest personnel were killed in the forest fire incident in the Uttarakhand districts Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami had insisted that the four injured forest personnel be shifted to AIIMS from the Sushila Tiwari Government Hospital in Haldwani the very next day.

Twenty-one-year-old Krishna Kumar, who had sustained 70% burn injuries in the incident and worked as a fire watcher, passed away at 1.37pm today. Doctors have attributed his cause of death to septic shock with multi-organ dysfunction, Almora divisional forest officer (DFO) Deepak Singh said.

Singh said the other three injured people are out of danger. But in burn injuries, the infections later can complicate things.

The four deceased were identified as Dewan Ram (35), a forest department daily wager, Karan Arya (21), a fire watcher, Trilok Mehta (56), forest beat officer of Binsar Range, and Puran Singh (52), a Prantiya Rakshak Dal (PRD) jawan.

The three injured survivors  Bhagat Singh Bhoj (38), forest department driver, Kailash Bhatt (44), forest department daily wager and Kundan Negi (44), PRD jawan  sustained 40-50 % burn injuries.

The fire broke out around 3.30pm in the Civil Soyam Forest Division of Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary in Almora district on June 13.

On Dhamis directions, the forest department suspended DFO (Civil Soyam) in-charge Dhruv Singh Martolia, Conservator of Forests, North Kumaon Circle Koko Rose and attached Chief Conservator of Forests (Kumaon) PK Patro to the department headquarters.

The five deaths in Almora have taken the toll from forest fires in the state to 11 this year.

This is the second such incident in Almora this year. On May 3, four labourers employed by an individual were killed while trying to douse a forest fire in Someshwar tehsil.

Uttarakhand reported 14 forest fire incidents on Tuesday, including 11 in the Garhwal region, 1 in the Kumaon region and 2 in wildlife administrative areas, according to forest department data. Around 27.3 hectares of forest land were damaged in these 14 forest fires.

According to Nishant Verma, additional principal chief conservator of forests and state nodal officer for forest fires, the state has reported 1,265 forest fires between November 1 last year and June 18. Of these, 549 were in the Garhwal region, 602 in Kumaon and 114 in wildlife administrative regions. These fires cumulatively destroyed 1,747.7 hectares of forest land.

Of 1,747.7 hectares of forest land damaged in forest fires this year, 719.3 hectares were in Garhwal, 886.03 hectares in Kumaon and 142.3 hectares in wildlife administrative regions, he said.
Delhi water minister Atishi on Wednesday said she has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking help alleviate Delhis water problems and said she will go on an indefinite jal satyagraha from Friday if additional water was not provided to the national capital to meet rising demand during the ongoing intense heatwave. Locals await government water tankers in Chanakyapuri. (Vipin Kumar/HT Photo)

Delhi water crisis: Atishi threatens indefinite fast, seeks PM Modis intervention

Alleging that Haryana refused to provide proper water share, she said she had written to the PM on the issue. However, the chief of the Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Virendra Sachdeva, blamed the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi for its management, saying it has no right to seek the PMs help.

We have tried all possible steps by requesting Haryana government, petitioning the Supreme Court and seeking intervention of union Jal Shakti minister. The suffering of people of Delhi has crossed all limits. If Delhis rightful share of water is not provided in next two days, I will start a satyagraha for water. I will start an indefinite fast till Delhi gets its water, the water minister said in a press conference.

On Wednesday, Delhis water supply plunged to 909 million gallons a day (mgd), leaving a 91mgd shortfall from the targeted summer supply, according to a Delhi Jal Board (DJB) report.

Atishi said Delhi was facing an unprecedented heatwave due to which water demand has gone up beyond estimates. She said that while Delhi gets 1,050mgd for 30 million people, Haryana gets 6,500mgd for the same population. If Haryana provides 100mgd water, it amounts to just 1.5% of water available with them, she added.

Over the past fortnight, Delhi has been facing water supply shortfall, which has been primarily attributed to raw water shortage, as it is dependent on its neighbouring states to meet 86.5% of its raw water needs.

Atishi, alleging Haryana did not provide its share in one instance, said: On June 18, Haryana only released 513mgd of water against 613mgd, leading to 100mgd shortfall. It impacts around 2.8 million people in Delhi. Our MLAs went to meet the Haryana Jal Shakti minister CR Patil, but he did not meet them. We have tried all possible administrative and legal steps.

Of the 1,050mgd water supply Delhi receives from neighbouring states, 613mgd comes from Haryana.

Haryana has maintained that adequate water was being released, as per the water-sharing agreement with Delhi. On multiple occasions, Haryana chief minister Nayab Saini said that before blaming his state, the Delhi government should first improve its distribution system. We are giving water to them as per the agreement before the court. But the Delhi leaders are misleading people for political gains. They did not take concrete steps in the last 10 years to face this problem. They have failed in management and distribution of water in their state, he said on Saturday.

Delhi BJP president Sachdeva said that every state government affected by natural calamity could seek the PMs help, but not one which pushed its state into trouble due to its incompetence and corruption.

Not only Delhi but all neighbouring states are also suffering from the heat, and while their populations may be smaller, their water requirements for agriculture are very high. The basis of Atishis letter is false, he said.

Water level dips again

The water supply on Wednesday dipped to 909mgd from 916 mgd recorded a day earlier, according to the DJB.

A DJB official, requesting anonymity, said the board received 256 tanker requests and more than 500 zero-water complaints on Wednesday.

The DJB said production is currently impacted at five of its nine water treatment plants, at Wazirabad, Chandrawal, Dwarka, Bawana and Haiderpur. The shortfall has led to supply shortages, especially in tail-end areas, leaving unplanned settlements dependent on tankers and rationing, and planned areas on low-pressure supply. Over the past couple of days, the shortages have also started to impact areas in Lutyens Delhi.

Shiva Sharma, a resident of Uttam Nagar said that a part of the area barely received water supply over the past week. The 1916 helpline number of DJB was non-responsive. We are only getting water supply for just 5-10 minutes. The water supply period should be restored to at least one hour, he said.

Delhi minister Atishi asks police to guard water pipelines

Abhishek Kumar, a resident of Mahavir Enclave Part 1, said: There has been no water supply here for the past three days. Even the little water we receive smells terrible. Despite registering several complaints, no action has been taken. This is causing significant trouble to our daily lives.

Surendra Singh Rana, a resident of Chhatarpur Extension, said that the residents of Block-B have not received water since Monday. We are facing a serious issue of water shortage. Even the local DJB officials of the area not responding to our calls, he said.
NEW DELHI: Delhi water minister Atishi on Wednesday said she has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking his intervention on the ongoing water crisis in the national Capital adding that she will sit on an indefinite fast from Friday if the issue is not resolved. Delhi is facing an unprecedented heatwave due to which water demand has gone up. (PTI photo)

We have tried all possible steps by requesting the Haryana government and petitioning the Supreme Court. We have sought intervention from Union jal shakti minister. On Tuesday, a high-level delegation of officers from Delhi met Haryana government officers but they refused to provide any water... The suffering of the people of Delhi has crossed all limits. I have written to Prime Minister Modi requesting his intervention. If Delhis rightful share of water is not provided in the next two days, I will start a satyagraha for water. I will start an indefinite fast till Delhi gets its water, the minister said while addressing media persons.

Also Read: Delhi water crisis: BJP accuses Arvind Kejriwal, AAP of water-theft, black marketing

Delhi is facing an unprecedented heatwave due to which water demand has gone up.

Atishi said Delhi gets only 1,050 MGD (million gallons per day) for around three crore people even as similar population in Haryana has access to around 6,500 MGD water.

If Haryana provides 100 MGD water, it amounts to just 1.5% of water available with them, she added.

According to the economic survey of Delhi, the city has an estimated water demand of 1,290 MGD and its peak water supply target is 1,000 MGD.

Over the last fortnight, Delhi has been facing a water supply shortfall which has been primarily attributed to raw water shortage.

Delhi is dependent on neighbouring states to meet 86.5% of its raw water needs.

Haryana has maintained that enough water is being provided according to the water sharing agreements, adding that Delhi should improve its water management.

She said that out of 1,050 MGD water supply of Delhi, 613 MGD comes via Haryana.

On June 18, Haryana only released 513 MGD water against 613 MGD leading to 100 MGD shortfall of water in Delhi. It impacts around 28,00,000 people in Delhi as one MGD water is supplied to 28,000 people, the minister said.

Atishi said that Delhi had filed a petition in the Supreme Court, but Haryana refused to budge.

Our MLAs went to meet the Jal Shakti minister CR Patil but he did not meet them. We have tried all possible administrative and legal steps, she added.

On Tuesday, the water production level in Delhi was 916 MGD against the target of 1,000 MGD  leading to a shortfall of 84 MGD.

The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) said production is currently impacted at four of its nine water treatment plants including Wazirabad and Haiderpur.

The water shortfall has led to water supply shortages especially in tail end areas, unplanned settlements dependent on tankers and rationing and low supply pressure in planned areas.

Over the last couple of days, the shortages have also impacted areas in Lutyens Delhi.

Meanwhile, Haryana has maintained that adequate water is being released per the water sharing agreement with Delhi.

On multiple occasions, Haryana chief minister Nayab Saini has said that the Delhi government should first improve its distribution system.

We are giving water to them as per the agreement before the court. But the Delhi leaders are misleading people for political gains. They havent taken concrete steps in the last ten years to tackle this problem. They have failed in management and distribution of water in their state, he said.
Akbar Nagar, spread over nearly 25 acres and situated between the barrage on Faizabad Road and Kukrail river, was finally buried in the pages of history with the month-long and biggest anti-encroachment exercise that Lucknow ever saw, coming to an end. Illegal constructions in Akbar Nagar razed, in Lucknow, on Wednesday. (HT Photo)

It was a saga of tears with thousands of people losing their homes, but new hope arose as they were relocated to PM Awas Yojna in Vasant Kunj.

The Akbar Nagar site, which had over 1,800 establishments, both private and commercial, and used to be buzzing with residents and heavy security forces till Tuesday, now lays deserted with just mounds of debris dotting the area.

Legal battles and more

Demolition began in December 2023 but was halted due to the Allahabad high courts order and then due to the model code of conduct coming into effect.

Efforts to revive the Kukrail river first began with a survey being conducted in 2023 after CM Yogi Adityanath instructed that it be turned into a hub of eco-tourism. During the survey, a large number of illegal constructions on the banks of the river came to the fore, said a press note from the government. In December 2023, the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) began removing illegal constructions by razing mostly commercial establishments on both sides of the river. Residents moved the Allahabad high court, which issued a stay until March 4, 2024.

On March 6, the HC allowed the demolition to proceed but ordered the LDA to offer easy installment options to displaced residents. Residents then appealed to the Supreme Court, which upheld the HCs decision in May.

On March 10, a rumour on social media fearing five to six people being trapped in debris started sparking outrage among locals who then pelted stones at authorities and broke the barriers. The day after, over 100 people were booked.

After a three-month hiatus due to the Lok Sabha elections, the demolition drive resumed on June 10 (Monday), and intensified as nearly 30 heavy earth movers along with security forces were deployed to bring down the constructions.

Demolition began in Phase-II of Akbar Nagar and moved to Phase I, finally ending on June 19.

Kukrail river- path to revival

With the demolition drive over, the government is now focusing on the all-round development of the area.

Now, the riverfront will be developed. Dashauli village near Bakshi ka Talab is considered to be the Kukrail Rivers origin, so it will be developed from there. Also, the area will be beautified by interlinking all the ponds present in the area, government press note read.

Multiple depts involved

Many other projects will be given a concrete shape under the urban development department along with many other departments. The layout plan of these projects is being prepared and they will be announced soon after the approval by CM Yogi, the statement read.

The statement further read that the Yogi government is going to make the Kukrail forest area a hub of eco-tourism.

The countrys first night safari is going to be developed here. The areas to be developed on the theme of Indian Walking Trail, Indian Foothill, Indian Wetland, Arid India and African Wetland will be the main attractions of the night safari area.

Animals of 54 species will be kept in 42 enclosures in the night safari. Tourists will visit the Night Safari Park through a 5.5 km tramway and a 1.92 km walkway. Asiatic Lion, gharial, Bengal Tiger, flying squirrel, leopards, hyena etc. will be the centre of attraction at the night safari. Beautiful parks will be developed on both sides of the Kukrail river. There will also be adventure activities, the press note read.
LUCKNOW: A 25-year-old UP Special Security Force (SSF) personnel, who was deployed for the security of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, died of a gunshot injury early on Wednesday, a senior police officer said. FILE-A general view of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya (AP)

Inspector general of police (Ayodhya range) Praveen Kumar said Shatrughan Vishwakarma was posted at the VIP gate of Koteshwar temple, nearly 150 metres from the newly constructed Ram Temple.

The incident took place at about 5.30am when the deceased was deployed at the gate along with two other security personnel.

His two colleagues told the police that they last spotted him watching a video on his mobile phone and had their back to him when the incident took place. They said they turned around on hearing a gunshot and saw Shatrughan slumped on the ground, Kumar said.

Kumar said the deceased had a gunshot wound on his forehead. Other security personnel deployed there rushed him to a local hospital where he was declared, brought dead, he said. The senior police officer said it was not clear if he accidentally shot himself or died by suicide.

A forensic team was called to examine the spot and figure out what exactly happened.

One of the six battalions of the UP SSF, which was raised on the lines of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in 2021, has been deployed for the security of Ram Temple in Ayodhya for the past 18 months.
IIT Bombay has come down with a heavy hand on eight students who staged a play called Raahovan at the institutes Performing Arts Festival on March 31. The play had raised the hackles of a group of students, who claimed that it hurt their religious sentiments. A group of IIT students registered a formal complaint with the institute, saying that the play included derogatory references to Hindu beliefs

IIT-B took up the issue in a disciplinary action committee (DAC) meeting held on May 8 and informed all the students about the action to be taken on June 4. The institute has imposed a fine of 1.20 lakh each on four students who will graduate from the institute this July. According to sources, the four other students, who are undergraduates, have been asked to pay a fine of 40,000 each and have also been ordered to vacate their hostel accommodation.

Videos of Raavohan had quickly circulated on social media, igniting a debate on artistic freedom versus religious sensibilities. In the play, a feminist interpretation of the Ramayana, character names were changed. However, a controversy ensued, as some viewers deemed the play offensive and disrespectful to religious sentiments.

Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana co-star Indira Krishna pens him a gratitude post: 'Thank you for your love and kindness'

A group of IIT students registered a formal complaint with the institute, saying that the play included derogatory references to Hindu beliefs, portrayed Ram as a devil and had the actors playing the roles of Sita, Ram and Laxman using inappropriate language and gestures.

A copy of a letter sent to a student was published on social media platform X by a verified user named IIT B for Bharat, which is run by an IIT students community. The post on X welcomed the disciplinary measures taken against those involved in Raahovan.

We condemn the misuse of academic freedom to mock Lord Ram, Mata Sita, and Lord Laxman, read the post. It urged the administration to establish guidelines to prevent any religion from being ridiculed under the garb of freedom of expression on campus. The students group also demanded an apology from the IIT-B administration.

According to sources, the students who have been penalised by the institute requested IITs dean of students affairs to allow them to continue living in the hostel, but the institute chose to stick to the committees recommendations.

When HT contacted IITs public relations officer, he refused to comment.
Residents in some parts of Mumbai suffered after the water supply was affected due to some fault at the Pise pumping station in the neighbouring Thane district, reported news agency PTI on Wednesday. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) urged citizens to use water judiciously. People in some parts of Mumbai suffered after water supply was affected due to some fault at the Pise pumping station in the neighbouring Thane district. (Representational Image)

"13 out of 20 water pumps were shut due to some fault developed in machinery at around 2.50 pm. Since then, work has been undertaken to restart the pumps on a war footing," the BMC stated in a release.

Water supply was affected in Mumbai's eastern suburbs, as well as from the Golanji, Fosbery, Raoli, and Bhandarwada reservoirs, according to the BMC.

As per the report, 10 pumps were restarted by 7 pm and efforts were on to start the functioning of the remaining three pumps.

ALSO READ| Mumbai cops trace ice cream factory worker who suffered finger injury during work

It was the second time in less than six months that Mumbai's water supply has been disrupted due to issues at the Pise pumping station.

Earlier, on February 26, a fire at the station stopped the functioning of 14 out of 20 pumps. As a result, the civic body had enforced a 15 per cent water cut across Mumbai and its suburbs for several days.

The civic body did not announce a water supply cut in Mumbai but warned of low-pressure supply. Thane and Bhiwandi cities, and other non-urban areas are expected to experience reduced water pressure during this period.

Yellow alert for rains issued in Mumbai

Yellow alert for rain has been issued in Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad areas, chief scientist of the India Meteorological Department, Sunil Kamble told news agency ANI.

"The pace of rain in Mumbai had reduced a bit in the last 2-3 days, but now it is gaining momentum. The monsoon current is becoming moderately strong. For the coming 2-3 days, we have given yellow alerts in Mumbai, Thane and Raigad areas. We have also given yellow alerts for the entire Vidarbha. The rest of Maharashtra is also not on alert, but moderate rain will continue there as well," said Sunil Kamble.
A 22-year-old man sleeping on a pavement in Chennai was killed after the daughter of YSR Congress Party Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao from Andhra Pradesh allegedly ran her luxury car over him on Tuesday, police officials familiar with the matter said. Police rushed to the spot and arrested Beeda Madhuri, the daughter of YSRCP MP Beeda Masthan Rao who drove the car, on charges of causing death due to negligence. However, she obtained bail later. (Representative Image)

The incident happened during the wee hours of Tuesday in Besant Nagar. The victim has been identified as Surya, a painter, who belongs to Odaikyppam, a fishing hamlet in Besant Nagar.

Police rushed to the spot and arrested Beeda Madhuri, the daughter of the MP who drove the car, on charges of causing death due to negligence. However, she obtained bail later.

She was accompanied by another woman friend in the car who had gotten down to check on the victim. She called for an ambulance by which time a huge crowd had gathered. In videos emerging on social media, the crowd is seen arguing with the woman and subsequently she also left the spot. Later, the crowd gathered at the Adyar traffic police station demanding action.

The victim was rushed to the Royapettah government hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the inauguration of the campus of Nalanda University, close to the ancient ruins of Nalanda, symbolised the beginning of the golden era for India and an introduction of the countrys ability to recreate its glorious history. The new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar. (PTI)

The books can be destroyed in flames, but not knowledge. A country that protects its human values knows how to recreate its history, he said after inaugurating the sprawling 455-acre state-of-the-art campus of the university. He said he was fortunate to be in Nalanda within 10 days of the start of his third term and he viewed it as a good omen.

Modi earlier visited the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, which was destroyed by Bakhtiar Khilji. The new Nalanda University was conceived as an icon of Asian renaissance and the voice of an Enlightened Asia.

Bihar governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, chief minister Nitish Kumar, external affairs minister S Jaishankar, his deputy Pavitra Margherita, heads of mission of 17 countries, chancellor Arvind Pangarhiya and vice chancellor Abhay Kunar Singh were present on the occasion.

Modi said that Nalanda was not just a name, but an identity, a respect, a mantra and an introduction with Indias enormous capability. It epitomised the Asian and global heritage within the campus. The new Nalanda has also involved many countries and will certainly strive to be a knowledge centre like the ancient seat of learning, he added.

He said that education was the focus of his government, and he was confident that Nalanda University would emerge as the main centre for cultural exchange and be a symbol of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

I am happy to know that students from over 20 countries are studying here. In the last 10 years, higher education has witnessed a significant change in India with growing number of Indian universities finding place in the global rankings. The 21st century is said to be Asias century, but that can happen only through education. Education strengthens economic growth and culture. It creates leaders. Education should be used for the betterment of humanity, he added.

Referring to the International Yoga Day on June 21, he said that what was seen as Indian has been adopted by the world and it has developed into a global festival. The same, he said, is happening with Ayurveda, which is now being accepted across the world as a way for sustainable living.

That is what India stands for and that is why it is heard when it says one world - one health, one world - one family - one future. Our quest for a developed Bharat is based on education, which is undergoing transformation to lay greater emphasis on innovation and research, besides development of scientific temper from a young age. The focus is on developing a research-oriented higher education system and a complete and comprehensive skilling system, he added.

Modi said that the reforms in the education sector has led to opening of premiere global institutions in the country and top Indian institutions in other countries to provide the best to the students. Nalanda University will also go to all corners of the world. The whole world is watching India and its youth. The next 25 years will be crucial for the future of India and the world. The students at Nalanda University will have great responsibility to take the message from here to wherever they go to be agents of positive change, he added.

Jaishankar said that the inauguration of the campus was a notable occasion. It represents the revival of a global bridge of learning that can build relationships even further than in the past. Realising our commitment to the East Asia Summit and the Act East policy, Nalanda contributes to the rejuvenation of civilisational linkages, celebration of our shared cultural heritage and appreciation of the immense diversity of our existence, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, chief minister Nitish Kumar thanked Modi for speeding up the work for development of the campus of Nalanda University and urged him for its further progress. The Bihar government will do whatever more needs to be done by the state government, he added.

Kumar also dwelt on the visualisation of the concept to recreate Nalandas grandeur. It came from former President late APJ Abdul Kalam during his address to the Bihar Legislature in 2006 March and form then the initiative started. Parliament had passed the Nalanda University Bill in August 2010, but the academic session started in 2014 and the campus development picked up once you came to power, he added.

Nalanda was a confluence of the cross-cultural influences of South Asia and East Asia. It fostered a civilisational dialogue and inter-faith understanding of religious pursuit in the broader context of civiliational knowledge. It represented the commonalities of Asian culture and values. The new institution is an attempt to recreate the power diplomacy by bringing together divergent interests in the Asia Pacific region.
Rishihood University announced its Bharat100 Scholarship, worth more than INR 7 Crores, to provide talented students opportunities for undergraduate studies in futuristic programs such as entrepreneurship, AI, finance, design, and psychology. Five students will get a full waiver, 15 students will get a 75% waiver, 20 will get a 50% waiver, and 60 students will get up to 40% scholarship. (Representative Image)(Hindustan Times)

According to a press release by Rishihood University, the scholarships are up to 100% of the tuition fee and the programs are scheduled to start on August 12, 2024. Five students will get a full waiver, 15 students will get a 75% waiver, 20 will get a 50% waiver, and 60 students will get up to 40% scholarship. Students who have shown extraordinary achievement in curricular or extra-curricular activities including sports, science, social work, and innovation will be given more preference.

Also Read: QS World University Rankings 2025: Planning to study in Australia? Here are the top 10 universities to consider!

India has no dearth of talent that just need an opportunity to shine. Rishihood University is proud to announce this massive scholarship drive for 100 students worth 7Cr+, and provide a turning point in the lives of many meritorious and deserving students. The scholarship is supported by big industry leaders, and is part of our joint vision of creating future leaders out of todays learners, said Shobhit Mathur, Vice-Chancellor, Rishihood University.

Selection Process:

Scores from national/international tests such as SAT, JEE, UCEED, IPMAT etc. count towards the scholarship. If a student has not taken a relevant test, they have to undergo Rishihoods Scholarship and Aptitude Test.

After applying, students will be called for an interview with the experts who will then decide the result and the scholarship, mentioned the press release.

For more information, visit the official website.

Also Read: Important points to consider before designing your retirement financial plan
UGC NET June 2024 Cancelled: The Ministry of Education on Wednesday cancelled the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test or UGC NET 2024, after intelligence reports suggested irregularities in the conduct of the examination. The test for Junior Research Fellowship, appointment as Assistant Professor and admission to PhD degree courses will be held again, it added. UGC NET June 2024 cancelled live updates UGC NET June exam has been cancelled (Photo by Santosh Kumar/ Hindustan Times)

The ministry said that the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a thorough investigation.

According to the data shared by the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducted the exam, 9,08,580 candidates appeared for the test on Tuesday (June 18).

In a press release, the Education Ministry said that a day after the exam was held, the UGC received inputs from the National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) that the integrity of the exam might have been compromised.

To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, the Ministry of Education, Government of India has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination be cancelled. A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately," the ministry said.

The announcement came at a significant time when another exam conducted by the same agency has been surrounded by controversies.

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET 2024) for undergraduate medical admissions has been a subject of heated debates since its results were announced earlier this month.

There were many alleged irregularities in the conduct of the test, such as grace marks awarded to certain candidates and paper leaks.

In the matter pertaining to the NEET(UG) Examination-2024, the issue related to grace marks has already been fully addressed. As regards certain irregularities alleged in the conduct of the examination in Patna, a detailed report has been sought from the Economic Offences Unit, Bihar Police. Government will take further action, on receipt of this report, the ministry said.

Amid the growing protests against the NEET UG exam, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday said that a lot of improvement is required in the National Testing Agency (NTA) while reiterating that no culprit will be spared.

Also read: NEET-UG row: Pradhan says lot of improvement needed in NTA after oppn attack

In today's statement, his ministry reiterated that any individual or organization found to be involved in the matter of the alleged irregularities will face the strictest action.
The foreign education market is booming. This is fuelled by an increasing demand for quality higher education for the growing middle class of India and the limited number of seats provided by high-quality institutions. Students and families need to make the right choice of college to make the best of their investments and avoid taking unnecessary risks that may jeopardise their familys financial situation or their own long-term career and financial prospects. Without transparent, well-organised and usable information about colleges and programs, students spend months sifting through websites, blogs, and social media and relying on personal networks and counsellors to make this critical decision. Without transparent, well-organised and usable information about colleges and programs, students spend months sifting through websites, blogs, and social media and relying on personal networks and counsellors to make this critical decision.(Unsplash)

If higher education institutions could share their data in a manner that is transparent and helps students get a comprehensive and accurate picture, it could go a long way in making the entire process of selection, admission, financing and financial aid efficient for every stakeholder in the sector. In several areas, increased transparency is needed on behalf of foreign institutions to enable students to make informed decisions, banks to lend more efficiently, and improve their admission yield.

Placements for international students vs domestic students

The average salaries of international student graduates, if mapped to their prior work experience, are far more critical than a blended average that may carry the high salaries of domestic (American) and more experienced graduates. Incoming students should be able to make a realistic assessment of their expected compensation and not be biased by gross numbers.

Career outcomes of entire alumni vs notable alumni

A comprehensive record of the career trajectories of every international alumni for a given program will be helpful in visualizing the future that a typical Indian student may be able to anticipate for herself. Information about the renowned people from that university or the college as a whole makes for great impressions but has the potential to provide an unrealistic and exaggerated sense of the future outcomes for a typical student.

Real salaries vs notional salaries

An Indian student who sees an average salary of $120,000 for the graduating class cannot escape interpreting it as INR 1 crore and immediately mapping it to a wealthy lifestyle that money can afford in India. Colleges and programs or an independent body must provide a realistic picture of what that translates to after adjusting for 40-50% taxation, cost of living that can vary widely in the USA and EMIs for tuition loans. Students should be able to avoid making decisions based on a notional view of their salaries and save themselves the disillusionment after graduation by doing objective assessments.

Faculty to show vs faculty to teach

Universities should share the names of faculty mapped to the courses for 1-2 years prior to the current year so that students are assured that the top faculty members mentioned on the website are indeed going to teach them. A lot of times, students get disappointed when they find out the star faculty members are not only not available to teach but are not just there to build the university's research credentials.

True costs vs base costs

Universities should provide comprehensive and exhaustive details of the total cost of completing the program based on multiple scenarios of tuition costs driven by credits earned, housing based on the choice of locations, insurance, local travel, academic material and licenses and expected incidentals to participate in student activities. This becomes more critical for students from lower-middle income backgrounds for whom even 2-3 lacs of expense can become a challenge.

Real scholarships vs. imaginary scholarships

Fee waivers or cash scholarships create a sense of hope in students and encourage them to apply. However, they are mostly considered black boxes, and it is never clear if an applicant will get one or not. Universities must publish the record of all scholarship recipients so that a prospective student is not planning her finances around a pipe dream.

If the above data can be published transparently, it will accelerate students' decision-making, accelerating the entire financing process. Institutions that prioritise this will not only enhance their reputations but also empower a global community of learners, thereby bolstering their long-term goals and enriching the overall educational ecosystem.

(Author Aman Singh is Co-Founder, GradRight. Views are personal.)
Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), announced its placement results with a placement rate of 97.07%, for the batch 2022-24. The placement drive was carried out for its four two-year full-time programs: PGDM, PGDM- International Business, PGDM-Retail Management, and PGDM-Insurance Business Management. (HT File)

According to a press release by BIMTECH, the highest package offer (international) stood at 24.43 LPA. The average package stood at 11.10 LPA. The institute also mentioned that 464 of its students were placed across both international and national markets.

The placement drive was carried out for its four two-year full-time programs: PGDM, PGDM- International Business, PGDM-Retail Management, and PGDM-Insurance Business Management. The highest CTC for PGDM was 22 LPA, followed by PGDM (International Business) at 22 LPA, PGDM (Retail Management) at 24.43 LPA, and PGDM (Insurance Business Management) at 14 LPA, informed BIMTECH.

Also Read: IIIT-Delhi Placements 2024: 677 offers made, average salary stood at 20.46 lakh per annum

BIMTECH has yet again maintained its legacy with the remarkable placements witnessed this year. The visit of 145+ recruiters is a testament to the dedication of our faculty, our academic programs, and the sturdy corporate relations built. There is a rise in the demand for tech-friendly & digitally oriented C-suits capable of making strides in the technological interventions happening around us. Hence, our institution has delivered talent which is capable of navigating through these ever-changing tides and excelling in their chosen fields," said Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director, BIMTECH.

More than 145 leading companies from various sectors such as Landmark Group (Homecentre), Blackrock, EY India, Deloitte, Wipro Ltd., KPMG, Infosys, Make My Trip (MMT), and SBI General Insurance Co. Ltd. to name a few participated in this years placement drive, mentioned the press release.

BIMTECH informed that students were recruited for diverse roles including Senior Analyst, Business Analyst, Area Manager, Consultant, Management Trainee, Digital Demand Analyst, Research Associate, Associate Solution Advisor, Deputy Manager, and Business Development Manager, among others.

According to the placement officials at BIMTECH, various sectors engaged in the hiring phase but the prime recruiting sector was Banking, Financial Services & Insurance at 37%, followed by IT & ITES, and Consultancy, at 18% and 15% respectively. Other prominent sectors that contributed to the placements are Manufacturing at 9%, FMCG/FMCD at 4%, Retail at 4%, Logistics at 2%, Market Research at 1%, and Others (Media, Real-estate, Edutech, and Telecom) at 10%.

Also Read: AIIMS New Delhi SR/SD recruitment 2024: Vacancy position revised, registration date extended
Arshad Warsi made a rare appearance with daughter Zene Zoe Warsi at the Mumbai airport. The father-daughter duo were all smiles as the paparazzi spotted them on Tuesday morning, heading towards the entrance of the airport. Zene looked radiant and stood beside her father for the photographs. (Also read: Sharmin Segal says she 'respects' Aditi Rao Hydari: 'Unfair to label me rude') Arshad Warsi was all smiles with daughter Zene Zoe.

Arshad with daughter Zene

Zene sported a deep brown hoodie, which she paired with a grey top and cream coloured trousers. She kept her hair untied and put sunglasses on her head. Meanwhile, Arshad was seen in a blue shirt and jeans. As the paparazzi requested for both father and daughter to stand together for some photographs, Arshad happily obliged and held Zene close. They both smiled and stood beside each other.

Reacting to the video, a fan commented, Both father and daughter look so happy! God bless them. A second fan wrote, She looks beautiful. She looks so humble, noticed another fan.

Arshad has been married to former MTV VJ and presenter Maria Goretti since February 1999. They have two children, a son Zeke Warsi, born on August 10, 2004 and a daughter Zene Zoe Warsi, born on May 2, 2007.

More details

He was last seen with Akshay Kumar in Bachchhan Paandey (2022) and also appeared in the Prime Video anthology Modern Love: Mumbai with Chitrangda Singh.

Arshad will be teaming up with Akshay again for Jolly LLB 3. In Jolly LLB 3, Akshay will be reprising his role as a lawyer, a character which won hearts for its comic timing while putting spotlight on important issues. It was recently reported that they started shooting for the film in Ajmer on April 29. Subhash Kapoor is directing the film. Both Arshad and Akshay shared a BTS video from film set last month.

He also has Welcome to the Jungle in the pipeline. The comedy film is directed by Ahmed Khan, and also stars Disha Patani, Raveena Tandon, Lara Dutta, Sanjay Dutt, and Shreyas Talpade. It will be released on December, 2024.
Mumbai, Filmmaking is a high-stakes business and whether you're an outsider or insider, a budding actor has to be worthy of an opportunity, says Pashmina Roshan, who is set to make her debut with "Ishq Vishk Rebound". Pashmina on why she didn't ask filmmaker uncle Rakesh Roshan to launch her: Have to be worthy of it

She will star in the young adult romance alongside Rohit Saraf, Jibraan Khan and Naila Grrewal. It is the second installment to the 2003 romantic comedy, which starred Shahid Kapoor, Amrita Rao and Shenaz Treasury.

Pashmina is the daughter of music composer Rajesh Roshan and niece of filmmaker Rakesh Roshan.

Asked if she reached out to her uncle, known for films such as "Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai" and the "Krrish" series starring superstar cousin Hrithik Roshan, the upcoming actor said it's not that easy.

"You can't ask, Please make something for me. It's not how it works... At the end of the day, it's a business, and a lot of money is involved in this business. It's not about one person at all, ever. It's the project, and it's around a lot of people, like 100 people that come together to make the project. Each one is equally important. So, you have to be worthy of it, Pashmina told PTI in an interview here.

Everyone has to face ups and downs, she said.

There are a lot of obstacles... The world doesn't revolve around you... I also auditioned and faced a lot of rejections. I also had to become better and better in order to gain this opportunity . It has come after a lot of rejections, even though I come from privilege. So, it's like the duality of life where both exist together, she added.

Hrithik's feedback is most valuable to her, she said.

I look forward to what he tells me, but in general, he believes that it's a very fresh and young project. That's something that all of us have enjoyed, the freshness of it. And, the fact that they're all of the same age and we had fun while shooting. I hope that translates on screen. But the advice is always to get better and better.

She may have grown up in a protective environment, but Pashmina is ready to learn lessons on her own.

They are there for me and I know for a fact that they are there when I do fall but I must make those choices on my own. I must carve that path on my own and I must make some mistakes. I must learn from my own mistakes, she said.

Grrewal, who most recently starred in the hit Netflix courtroom comedy "Maamla Legal Hai", described "Ishq Vishk Rebound" as a light-hearted romantic comedy in which the female characters aren't one dimensional.

"... Both our female characters, that is mine and Pashmina's, have several shades of grey. We've not shown it as one dimensional because we need to start showing women as they are. We need to start showing the various shades that they all encompass.

"Thankfully with the advent of OTT, we have women characters that are just so much more real, more tangible. I'm excited for the times ahead because I feel like now, we really have some exciting characters to play," said the actor, who started her film journey with a small role in Imtiaz Alis Tamasha starring Ranbir Kapoor.

Calling Kapoor her "favourite actor", Grrewal said featuring in the 2015 romance drama taught her to work hard.

"Just to see how Ranbir Kapoor was manoeuvring, he almost danced in front of the camera, even when it wasn't a dance sequence. He's that seamless with his speed that it really motivated me and it gave me that push. If you have to get involved in this profession completely then you have to do additional hard work, she said.

Produced by Ramesh Taurani and co-produced by Jaya Taurani under the banner Tips Films Limited, Ishq Vishk Rebound is set to release in theatres on Friday.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Ahmedabad, The Gujarat High Court on Wednesday said it will take a call on whether to watch 'Maharaj,' the debut film of Bollywood star Aamir Khan's son Junaid, in order to decide on the plea against its release on streaming platform Netflix for allegedly hurting religious sentiments. The interim stay on the release of the movie granted by the court of Justice Sangeeta Vishen continued for one more day as the matter was kept for further hearing on Thursday. Yash Raj Films , the producer of the movie, offered to provide the link and password to the court to watch the movie in order to decide whether it hurts the religious sentiments of a particular community as argued by the petitioners. Members of the Pushtimarg sect have filed a petition against the release after they came across articles about the film which is based on the libel case of 1862 heard and decided by the British judges. The petitioners have pointed out that the British-era court, which had decided the libel case, "Castigates the Hindu religion and makes seriously blasphemous comments against Lord Krishna as well as the devotional songs and hymns." It will be open for the court to decide on whether to watch the movie, it said while agreeing to hear the matter on merits and posted it for further arguments on Thursday. " will be in addition to the submissions made by the learned counsels for the respective parties," Justice Vishen said that after the YRF offered to provide the link and password for the court to watch the movie. The lawyers for the petitioners as well as respondent YRF submitted that while the court may watch the movie, they were not giving up on issues of maintainability of the petition. "Let the arguments get over. If the court feels the need we will give the link, if the court feels there is no need, we will not," lawyer Shalin Mehta appearing for the YRF said. Appearing for the petitioners, advocate Mihir Joshi said that he has no issue with the court watching the movie to decide on the petition. "If it does not run down our religion then let them go ahead with the release. We are not interested in stretching the matter any further," he said. The petitioners have claimed that their religious sentiments would be "seriously hurt" if the movie is permitted to be released, and is likely to affect the public order and incite violence against followers of the sect. Earlier, the petitioners had approached the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, requesting it to take immediate measures to block the film's release. However, there was no response or action from the ministry, it was stated. Release of the movie is likely to incite hatred and violence against the Pushtimarg sect, which would be in breach of the code of ethics under the Information Technology Rules, and the self-regulation code of Over the Top Technology , they said. The 1862 libel case was centred on a clash between a Vaishnavite religious leader and social reformer, Karsandas Mulji, who, in an article in a Gujarati weekly, had alleged that the godman had sexual liaisons with his female devotees.

Gujarat HC's interim stay on OTT release of 'Maharaj' film extended by a day
Kannada actor Rachita Ram shared her thoughts on the ongoing alleged murder case against Darshan. In a statement on X and Instagram written in Kannada, she expressed shock at her mentors supposed involvement in the case. (Also Read: Darshan's lawyer denies Kannada actor Pavithra Gowda is his partner or second wife: 'They have friendly relationship...') Rachita Ram 'cannot believe' Darshan's involvement in the case.

Rachita Ram on Darshan

Rachita wrote that Darshan was the actor, who introduced her to cinema. She shared how she hopes the truth will come out once the police complete their investigation. She also mentioned writing it as a citizen, not an actor.

According to India Today, her statement reads, I pray for the departed soul, Renukaswamy. I hope his family gains the strength to bear the loss. I hope justice will be delivered in this murder case. Darshan introduced me to the cinema industry. He is like my mentor. I cannot believe that the person who used to correct my mistakes and guide me was involved in the case. I believe that the police will bring out the truth. Hope the media will remain unbiased and transparent in their reports.

Darshan and Rachita acted together in her debut film Bulbul and went on to star together in films like Ambareesha, Jaggu Dada, Amar and Kranti.

Celebs on Darshan

While most celebrities in the film industry initially remained mum after Darshans arrest, they have lately begun speaking out. Divya Spandana, Ram Gopal Varma, Sanjjanaa Galrani, Upendra and Kichcha Sudeep have spoken up.

Divya commented on how one should involve the police in case of harassment instead of taking the law into their hands, while RGV called the case a prime example of the bizarreness of star worship.

Sanjjanaa claimed it was too early to declare Darshan a criminal, while Sudeep claimed Kannada industry cannot be dragged through the mud for one or two peoples mistakes. Upendra wrote a long note on social media, urging for transparency in the case, claiming that it should become the law to share the investigation publicly.

Darshans case

Darshan, Pavithra Gowda and 10 others were arrested in connection to the alleged murder of Renukaswamy on June 11. Renukaswamy allegedly sent Pavithra derogatory messages on social media, leading to his abduction and killing. His body was found at a drain near Sumanahalli.
Nag Ashwins Kalki 2898 AD, starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, will be released soon. The pre-release event was held in Mumbai on Wednesday evening, and the lead stars were in attendance. (Also Read: Deepika Padukone shows off baby bump in stunning dress ahead of Kalki 2898 AD pre-release event. See pics) Amitabh Bachchan playfully pulled at Prabhas for helping Deepika Padukone off stage.

Amitabh, Prabhas rush to help Deepika on-stage

At the event, Rana apart from the lead cast took the stage to discuss the film. After Amitabh, Kamal and Prabhas, Deepika was called on stage.

As soon as Deepika got up from the couch, Rana first rushed to help her as shes pregnant, and so did Prabhas. But Amitabh could be seen asking them to hold off as he wanted to help her on stage.

As she got down from the stage, when Prabhas helped her off, Amitabh hilariously chided Prabhas for beating him to it, pulling him from behind, making fans and the media there laugh.

Deepika jokes about her baby bump

When Rana asked if Deepika decided to stay in character even after finishing the film where she plays a pregnant Sumati (or SUM-80), she joked, The movie went on for three years, I was like, why not 9 months more. She later also pulled Prabhas leg that he was the reason for the way her pregnant stomach looks. She said, Im actually like this because of all the food Prabhas fed me. It got to the point where it was a full catering service, not just food from home. He feeds from the heart. Before heading for the event, Deepika shared pictures of her dressed in a stunning black dress, writing, Okay enoughNow Im hungry!

About Kalki 2898 AD

Nags Kalki 2898 AD is set in a dystopian future where people struggle to find basic resources in Kashi. Living in the Complex is what everyone aspires for, given that the inverted pyramid structure has everything. Prabhas plays a bounty hunter called Bhairava while Amitabh plays Aswatthama in the film. Kamal plays Supreme Leader Yaskin. Kalki 2898 AD will be released on June 27.
Nag Ashwins Kalki 2898 AD will have a pre-release event in Mumbai on Wednesday evening. The film, which stars Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, and Disha Patani, will be released in theatres on June 27. (Also Read: Bhairava Anthem: Diljit Dosanjh's number for Prabhas' Kalki 2898 AD is an eclectic mix of Punjabi and Telugu) Kamal Haasan and Prabhas arrived in Mumbai for the Kalki 2898 AD event.(X/ArtistryBuzz)

Prabhas, Kamal arrive in Mumbai

Prabhas and Kamal were clicked arriving in Mumbai by the paparazzi. On Tuesday night, Prabhas was clicked arriving in the city with his posse. The actor wore an oversized t-shirt, sweats and a casual jacket for the trip.

Kamal was clicked, arriving in Mumbai on Wednesday morning. He wore matching grey sweats, completing the look with sunglasses and a cap. He was clicked chatting with airport personnel before making his way.

Kalki 2898 AD pre-release event

The highly anticipated pre-release event of Kalki 2898 AD is set to take place in Mumbai from 6 pm. The films team, including Prabhas, Kamal, Nag, and the rest of the crew, will be in attendance. Amitabh, Disha, and Deepika are also expected to grace the event with their presence. After the makers unveiled their custom-made vehicle, Bujji, at an event in Hyderabad, the audience is eagerly waiting to see what they have in store for today's event.

Nag Ashwin on Kalki 2898 AD

Nag shared his vision for the film in a video titled The Prelude of Kalki 2898 AD. He said, In India, we grew up with epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana, and there is another age to go, and that age is the final battle. The world of Kalki 2898 AD is a sequel to the last epic of these characters of the previous yugas. We still have another age to go, and that age is the final battle; that age is where the end essentially has to begin, and everything has to come to a climax, like all of these stories and nine avatars.

About Kalki 2898 AD

Nags Kalki 2898 AD is set in a dystopian future. The film shows how people struggle to live in Kashi even as the resources are all sent to the Complex. Prabhas plays a bounty hunter in the film which sees people wait for the incarnation of Kalki. The film will be released in theatres in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam and Hindi.
The first confirmed contestant of Bigg Boss OTT 3 was revealed on Tuesday. Chandrika Dixit aka 'vada pav girl' is the first Bigg Boss OTT 3 participant to be announced. The news was shared by JioCinema on their social media handles. The third season of the reality show  hosted by actor Anil Kapoor  will begin streaming from June 21. Also read: Bigg Boss OTT 3 contestants tentative list Chandrika Dixit will be seen on Bigg Boss OTT 3. She is known as 'vada pav girl' on Instagram.

Chandrika Dixit confirmed for Bigg Boss OTT 3

Taking to Instagram, JioCinema wrote in the caption, Who's the first contestant of Bigg Boss OTT 3? Head over to JioCinema Premium to get a sneak peek of this teekhi mirchi (hot chilli)... Bigg Boss OTT 3 streaming exclusively on JioCinema Premium starting 21 June, 9 pm.

Bigg Boss OTT 3 contestants

Earlier in May, a tentative list of Bigg Boss OTT 3 contestants was shared by India Today. Chandrika, who shot to fame overnight for selling vada pav in Delhi, recently arrived in Mumbai with her family to complete on the show.

While she was on the list, many actors also found a place. As per India Today sources, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai actors Harshad Chopda and Shehzada Dhami have been roped in for Bigg Boss OTT 3.

Temptation Island winners Cheshta Bhagat and Nikhil Mehta are reportedly on the Bigg Boss OTT contestants list as well. Moreover, according to the report, social media personality Vishal Pandey is also confirmed for Bigg Boss OTT 3. The makers are reportedly also negotiating with a popular Bollywood celebrity for a surprise entry into the Bigg Boss OTT house.

More about the show

Bigg Boss OTT is a spin-off of the popular Bigg Boss franchise and first debuted on Voot with filmmaker Karan Johar as the host. Actor and longtime Bigg Boss host, Salman Khan, hosted the second season in 2023. Excited to host the third season of Bigg Boss OTT, Anil Kapoor in a statement said, "Bigg Boss OTT and I are a dream team! We're both young at heart."

He added, "People often say - jokingly - that I'm reverse ageing, but Bigg Boss is  seriously  timeless. It feels a bit like going back to school, trying something new and exciting. Having said that, I've always approached all my projects with sincerity and a commitment to hard work and I'm going to bring that same energy (times 10!) to Bigg Boss! Unscripted reality has something for everyone - laughter, drama, and surprising twists, and I can't wait to bring my own flavour to it."
NEW DELHI: Sixty-eight Indian nationals were among more than 600 people from around the world who died during this years Haj pilgrimage that was marked by searing heat and intense high temperatures, people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. Muslim pilgrims circle the Kaaba as they perform Tawaf at the Grand Mosque, during the annual haj pilgrimage, in Mecca, Saudi Arabia on June 18 (REUTERS)

The deaths of the Indians were reported over a period of weeks and the number of deaths on the final day of the pilgrimage was six, the people said on condition of anonymity. Several deaths were due to natural causes or old age, and some were due to intense weather conditions, they said.

Saudi Arabia: 14 Jordanian Hajj pilgrims dead as temperature nears 48 degrees

There was no official word from the Indian government on the development.

A total of 175,000 Indian pilgrims travelled to Saudi Arabia for this years Haj.

Muslim pilgrim pours water on his head to cool down from the heat, as he takes part in the annual haj pilgrimage in Mina, Saudi Arabia (REUTERS)

Citing two unnamed Arab diplomats, AFP reported on Tuesday that 550 deaths were recorded during the Haj, one of the five pillars of Islam that all Muslims with the means must perform at least once. According to an AFP tally, the total reported deaths so far is 645.

This figure includes 323 Egyptians and 60 Jordanians. Deaths have also been confirmed by Indonesia, Iran, Senegal, Tunisia and Iraqs autonomous Kurdistan region.

Last year more than 200 pilgrims were reported dead, most of them from Indonesia. The people cited above said dozens of Indians die every year during the Haj, mostly because of old age or ailments.

Many Indians who perform the Haj are elderly and most of them arent in very good health, one person said.

Two officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity said they believed at least 600 bodies were at the Emergency Complex in the Al-Muaisem neighbourhood of Mecca. Security was tight at the complex, with an official reading out names of the dead and their nationalities, including people from India, Algeria and Egypt.

A pilgrim pushes his wife and child in a wheelchair at the Grand Mosque, ahead of the annual haj pilgrimage, in Mecca (REUTERS)

Saudi Arabia hasnt provided information on fatalities, though it reported more than 2,700 cases of heat exhaustion on Sunday alone.

For the past few years, the Haj, whose dates are determined according to the lunar Islamic calendar, has fallen during the sweltering Saudi summer. According to a Saudi study published in May, temperatures in the area where rituals are performed are rising 0.4 degrees Celsius each decade.

At least 550 pilgrims died during Hajj amid scorching heat, mostly Egyptians

On Tuesday, temperatures reached 47 degrees Celsius in Mecca and the sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Center for Meteorology. Some people fainted while trying to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil. At the Grand Mosque in Mecca, temperatures reached 51.8 degrees Celsius on Monday.

More than 1.83 million Muslims performed the Haj this year, including more than 1.6 million from 22 countries.
Agartala: Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder on Wednesday took oath as a member of the Tripura assembly, a fortnight after winning the assembly by-poll held at Ramnagar constituency in April this year. Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Dipak Majumder on Wednesday took oath as a member of the Tripura assembly in presence of chief minster Dr Manik Shah (Twitter/@mayordipakbjp)

Assembly speaker Biswabandhu Sen administered the oath of secrecy to Majumdar in the presence of chief minister Dr Manik Saha and other Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders.

Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman also attended the swearing-in ceremony and was seen congratulating Majumder.

This is a new chapter. I shall try to perform my duty as an MLA effectively. I also thank people for their support to me, Majumder told the reporters after the swearing-in.

CM Saha, later speaking to the media, said, I welcome him. We expect more prosperity from our assembly with his assistance.

With the newly-elected MLA, the BJP now has 33 MLAs while its alliance partners Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IPFT) has one and TIPRA Motha has 13 MLAs while, the opposition Communist Party of India (Marxist) has 10, and Congress three MLAs in the 60-member assembly.

Majumder won the Ramnagar by-poll assembly constituency against INDIA bloc candidate Ratan Das by 18,000 votes. The by-polls were held on April 19, along with the first phase of Lok Sabha polls.

The by-poll became necessary due to the death of the then-sitting legislator Surajit Dutta in December.

Majumder was associated with Congress till his joining the BJP before the 2018 assembly election. In 2022, Majumder won the civic polls and became Agartalas mayor.
The autopsy report of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, allegedly killed by Kannada actor Darshan and his associates, revealed that he died due to shock and hemorrhage as a result of multiple blunt injuries sustained, according to India Today. The report also indicated that he was kicked and suffered a ruptured testicle and had been given electric shocks prior to his death, details of which were corroborated by an accomplice during police questioning. Bengaluru: Kannada actor Darshan Thugadeepa being taken to a hospital for medical check up, Bengaluru, Tuesday, June 11, 2024.(PTI)

HT earlier reported that Renukaswamy sustained 15 grievous inuries all over his body and the forensic evidence suggested his head was forcefully rammed into a vehicle.

There was bleeding in his hands, feet, back and chest. He died of blood clots due to the severe assault. He was assaulted using a wooden stick and a belt. Additionally, the post-mortem report have revealed that dogs had eaten the mans face and some parts of his dead body, an officer aware of the report told HT.

Read: Kannada actor Rachita Ram shocked her mentor Darshan is involved in murder case: Police will bring out the truth

A second officer said that police have recovered several objects used to torture the victim, including wooden logs, a leather belt, and a rope.

Darshan, his former co-star and friend Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others have been arrested in connection with the case. Renukaswamy reportedly sent offensive messages to Gowda on social media, which angered the actor. Raghavendra, a member of Darshan's fan club, reportedly lured Renukaswamy to a shed used to park seized vehicles in south-western Bengaluru under the pretense of arranging a meeting with the actor, where he was allegedly tortured and killed.

Read: Actor Darshan's manager died by suicide in Bengaluru farm house

Reports suggest some of the accused confessed that Darshan paid 30 lakh to kill Renukaswamy, dispose of the body, and destroy evidence. According to NDTV, police believe Darshan may have paid as much as  50 lakh to four men involved in the planning and execution of Renukaswamy's murder.

On Sunday, police seized a car allegedly used in kidnapping Renukaswamy. The vehicle was found parked at a house in Ayyanahalli village in Chitradurga district.

Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda indicated that Renukaswamy was murdered in a "horrific, brutal and barbaric" manner.

Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Dayananda said: "It is a heinous crime committed in a horrific manner and we have to ensure that the accused in the case are punished and we have to deliver justice to the victim's family and our officers and staff are working in this direction."

"With regard to the investigation of the murder case (Renukaswamy murder) registered in Kamakshipalya police station, wherein an individual has been killed in a very brutal and barbaric way, so far the police have arrested 17 persons and all the 17 persons have been taken into police custody and their interrogation is being done," he said.

Read: Darshan's lawyer denies Kannada actor Pavithra Gowda is his partner or second wife: 'They have friendly relationship...'

According to a detailed version of events leading to the crime offered by the police, Darshans wife Vijayalakshmi and Gowda got into a very public spat on social media in January after the latter posted videos celebrating a decade-long relationship with the actor. As their posts went viral, Renukaswamy, an employee at a medical store, who did not know either Vijayalakshmi or Gowda personally, allegedly started posting derogatory messages against Gowda on her social media profiles.

Police said that Renukaswamys intensive trolling of Gowda over several months ended up becoming the trigger for the murder, with Darshan asking the district president of his fan club, Raghavendra R, to first gather information about Renukaswamy and then arrange for him to be brought to Bengaluru on the pretext of meeting the actor.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi days into the start of his third term, on Wednesday approved raising minimum support prices (MSPs) for an array of kharif, or summer-sown crops, setting them at a minimum of 1.5 times the cost of production so that farmers get 50% returns. The government set the floor rate for common variety of rice, the summer staple, at  2,300 a quintal (100 kg), an increase of  117 and up 5% from the previous seasons MSP. (REUTERS)

The revised MSPs, which act as benchmark prices at which government purchases farm produce, especially cereals, come just ahead of the monsoon sowing season, which supplies half of the countrys annual food supply. In step with its long-standing policy, the government announced bigger hikes in the floor prices of pulses and oilseeds to boost their cultivation as India still relies on imports of these items to meet domestic demand.

Govt raises MSPs for kharif season, focus on pulses, oilseeds

The government set the floor rate for common variety of rice, the summer staple, at 2,300 a quintal (100 kg), an increase of 117 and up 5% from the previous seasons MSP of 2,183 a quintal.

The third term of PM Modi is very important as it focuses on continuity with change through many decisions for farmers welfare, said Union information & broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who announced the decisions.

The Cabinet also cleared the construction of a mega port in Vadhavan, Maharashtra, at a cost of 76,200 crore, building of a new terminal at Varanasi airport, and an offshore wind energy project that will generate 1GW of power. The Cabinet also announced the National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme, under which campuses of the National Forensic Sciences institute will be set up across states.

Among key varieties of pulses, the government hiked the MSP of pigeon pea (tur) to 7,550 a quintal, up 7.8% from the previous seasons rate of 7,000 a quintal. The MSP for green gram (moong) has been fixed at 8,682, which is 1.5% higher than last year. The floor rate for urad, another key pulse variety, was raised to 7,400 a quintal, up 6.4% from the previous kharif season.

In the oilseeds category, which yield vegetable oils, the MSP for groundnut has been set at 6,783 a quintal from 6,377 earlier, an increase of 6%. The rate for soyabean has been set at 4,892, which represents an increase of 6.3% from 4,600 a quintal in the previous year.

The government also hiked the floor rate of sunflower seeds to 7,280 a quintal from 6,760, up 15.6%, the largest jump in prices among oilseeds.

The Modi government in its previous two terms set a base and strong foundation for economic development, be it roads, infrastructure or logistics. In this third term, the government will build on this foundation to take the country forward, Vaishnaw said.

Farmers are currently preparing to plant a range of crops, such as rice, soyabean, pulses, cotton and sugarcane, which depend on the June-September monsoon system. If the summer rains are robust as predicted, it will help boost sowing and coverage of major crops critical to keep a lid on prices.

Sufficient harvests will also allow the worlds second-largest rice and sugar producer to lift bans on export of these commodities and calm local prices.

Farm incomes are critically dependent, at least in the case of rice and wheat, on the MSP-backed procurement programme. Yet, only about 32.2% of paddy growers and 39.2% of wheat farmers were aware about MSP, according to the 70th round of National Sample Survey for 2012-13. Crucially, only 13.5% rice farmers and 16.2% wheat farmers were able to sell their produce at MSPs, the data showed.

Farmers tend to be benefit from MSPs in states where procurement mechanism  or the governments buying of farm produce  is robust, such as Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh for wheat and Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and Haryana in case of paddy.

Among commercial crops, the MSP for cotton has been fixed at 7,121, which is 7% higher than the earlier rate of 6,620. The MSP for bajra or pearl millet has been set at 2,625 per quintal, offering significant support for millet farmers.

The government announced in Union Budget 2018-19 that it would increase MSPs in a manner that ensures 50% returns to farmers.

Punjab faces kharif crop diversification challenge

Farm unions, however, said the increases in MSP were not enough to cover increasing costs. The hikes in MSP hardly covers rising input costs on labour, pesticides and diesel incurred by farmers. Moreover, MSP is merely symbolic for most commodities other than paddy because the government either doesnt procure them or procures token quantities, said Rakesh Tikait, leader of the Bharatiya Kisan Union.

The strategy of reserving bigger hikes in MSP for pulses and oilseeds should be accompanied by sufficient procurement to achieve self-sufficiency in these commodities, said Abhishek Agrawal, an analyst with Comtrade.
New Delhi The Supreme Court on Monday told the Centre and the National Testing Agency (NTA) not to shy away from admitting any mistake in conducting the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) this year and cautioned that even 0.001% negligence should be thoroughly dealt with, underlining the chaos engulfing Indias premier medical entrance examination that threatens to jeopardise the futures of hundreds of thousands of children. The Supreme Court of India (Sonu Mehta/HT PHOTO)

A vacation bench of justices Vikram Nath and SVN Bhatti was listening to 32 candidates seeking cancellation of the May 5 test over allegations of paper leak, malpractice, manipulation of examination centres, and discrepancies in declaration of results.

The court issued notice and posted it along with a raft of similar petitions on the issue on July 8.

We all know the labour children have put in for this examination. You must stand firm. If there is a mistake, you must say that we admit the mistake as that will inspire confidence in the system. It should not be taken as an adversarial litigation, said the court.

Even if there is 0.001% negligence on the part of anyone, it should be thoroughly dealt with, the bench told advocate Kanu Agarwal appearing for the Centre and advocate Vardhaman Kaushik for NTA.

For weeks, protests have swept across India as thousands of students hit the streets against this years process amid allegations of question paper leaks, inflated marking and arbitrary allowance of grace marks, even as opposition parties called for a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the allegations. Narendra Modi, as usual, is maintaining silence on the tampering with the future of more than 24 lakh students in the NEET examination, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X in Hindi.

The government has repeatedly said it will not tolerate malpractice and irregularities but also ruled out scrapping the entire examination over what it calls were problems in a handful of centres. Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday said that the initial information was that some students were given grace marks due to less time. ...some irregularities have come to light at two places. I assure the students and parents that the government has taken this seriously. We have received the information and we will take all the issues to a decisive stage, Pradhan had said.

This years NEET has been shrouded in controversy after allegations surfaced that in one centre in Rajasthan, students appearing for the Hindi medium test got question papers in English amid reports of torn OMR sheets and delay in distribution of question papers. A case was lodged in Patna over an alleged paper leak, after which the police arrested 13 people involved in solving question papers and supplying answers as part of a racket. The arrested people include four examinees.

At least 10 petitions have been filed in the top court since then. Almost all of them will be heard on July 8 by a bench likely headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud.

In all 2.4 million students sat for the examination at 4,750 centres spread across 571 cities around the world.

Imagine a person who has played fraud on the system, such a person getting admission to the course and becoming a doctor is more deleterious to the society, the court said on Tuesday.

The Centre told the court that no opinion should be formed before NTA and Centre submit their response on July 8. The court may not come to a conclusion yet and await what the Centre has to say, Agarwal said. The bench replied, We want timely action from you. It needs to be checked how many mobiles were used. Rarely does the court react. And during vacations, we tend to react slowly.

The exchange came days after the top court allowed the Centre to scrap grace marks awarded to 1,563 students and conduct a fresh test for them. The students were given the option of appearing for the fresh exam on June 23, or retain their actual scores without the grace marks.

But this addressed only a small fraction of the problems roiling NEET this year, primary among which is the fact that 67 people scored a perfect 720, up from two in 2023 and zero in 2022. Junking grace marks removed six people from this list of 67. Other apparent inconsistencies  44 students getting marks because of discrepancies in old and new physics textbooks, or inflated marking that has skewed the percentiles  remained unaddressed.

On Tuesday, the court also issued notice on another petition by candidate Nitin Vijay on grace marks due to loss of time and a question in the Physics paper. The bench told NTA, Be prepared for the award of grace marks to 1563 candidates. There is a lot of opposition coming for that too.

The 1,563 candidates who got grace marks complained that they did not get the stipulated 3 hours and 20 minutes to complete the examination. The NTA grievance committee looked into this aspect and identified the 1,563 candidates from six centres in Meghalaya, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Surat and Chandigarh.

Advocate Kunal Cheema, appearing for the petition filed by 32 candidates, pointed to a 2015 decision by the top court which cancelled the All-India Pre-Medical Test following allegations of paper leak. Cheema requested the court that as investigations into alleged malpractices were underway, it would be appropriate to stay the counselling beginning July 6.

But the bench refused to accede to the demand. Keep the arguments close to your heart. You can argue this on July 8. All these issues will be considered, it said.

The top court first entertained a petition on NEET on May 17 before the summer vacations and issued notice to the Centre and NTA to file responses by July 8.

On June 11, another petition -- heard by the vacation bench -- got tagged with the earlier plea. Following this, NTA filed a petition seeking transfer of a petition against NEET from the Delhi high court to the top court, which too got listed for July 8. Along with it, six other petitions seeking cancellation of the examination and stay of results were also heard by the court, one of them demanding a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the incident.

NTA denied allegations of paper leak and issued a press release on June 7 explaining that out of the 67 candidates who secured full marks, 44 got on account of revision in one answer key of Physics while six -- all from the same exam centre in Haryanas Bahadurgarh -- benefitted from grace marks.

It is amply clear that the impact of the leak is all over and hence it is inevitable that a re-exam should be conducted, so that the petitioners get a fair opportunity to reap the correct results of their hard labour, said Amulya Vijaya Pinapati, the lead petitioner among the 32 who filed their plea on Tuesday.
Depicting court judgments, even those made by British judges during colonial rule, is an essential part of legal history that cannot be censored or erased, Netflix told the Gujarat high court on Tuesday as the streaming platform asked the bench to dismiss petitions against the release of the film Maharaj. *A poster of Netflix film 'Maharaj', starring Aamir Khan's son Junaid Khan. (PTI)

Whether we like that judgment or not, we cannot eradicate legal history, senior lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Netflix, told a bench of justice Sangeet Vishen, underlining that the portrayal of the Bombay Supreme Courts 1862 verdict could not be prohibited only because the petitioners considered them to be scandalous and defamatory to the Pustimargi sect.

The film, Maharaj, is based on a landmark libel case of 1862 filed by a leading Vaishnavite figure, Jadunathji, against journalist and social reformer Karsandas Mulji who had written against sexual exploitation by the all-powerful Maharaj. Muljis expose in his magazine The Satyaprakash of the exploitative practice led to a libel case which became the celebrated Maharaj Libel Case.

The high court on June 13 stayed the movies release on Netflix on a bunch of petitions filed by members of the Pustimargi sect, leading the streaming giant and the film-makers, Yash Raj Films (YRF), to approach the high court on June 15.

The petitioners including the Pustimargi sect asked the high court to put on hold its release on the assumption that it showed the Vaishnav sect in a bad light, was likely to incite feelings of hatred and violence against the sect and that it may hurt public sentiments at large with its reportedly controversial depiction of certain characters and practices.

Rohatgi, who argued that the petition should have been filed as a suit and not a writ petition, said the petitioners had not objected to a book by Saurabh Shah on the case or any online content on the same topic. It was also pointed out how the Supreme Court cleared the movie Padmaavat in 2018 holding that cinemas were an inseparable part of the right to free speech and expression though the portrayal of the legendary Queen Padmavati was perceived as negative by the Rajput community.

Shalin Mehta, who appeared for Yash Raj Films, said the film had also received certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) on May 29, 2023, which remained unchallenged.

Mehta sought to assure the petitioners that the film did not report on the judgment, but the trial. The movie is based on the fact that there was an expose by a journalist about certain immoral practices of a Maharaj. The trial is depicted in the film, not the judgment. The petitioners have a problem with the judgement of the Maharaj Libel case of 1862, they have a concern that the language in the judgement is defamatory. But the judgement is not read out in the film. The only part of the judgement that is even mentioned in the film is that the case has been dismissed, he said.

Mehta also stressed that the trial accounts for just 20 minutes of the 132-minute-long movie.

Mihir Joshi, appearing for the petitioners, said they were opposing the movie because it had a much wider reach than any book on the topic. Joshi contended that the movie differed significantly from the 2013 publication of the book on the same subject. He argued that the book and the film constitute completely different libels, with the potential for damage being far greater with the film due to its wider reach.

Joshi also contested Netflixs argument that the judgement was a historical fact and that making a movie about it could not be prohibited. It is wrong in principle. A judgment, by common law convention, is itself immune from defamation. Court proceedings, including what a judge says in court, what a witness says in court, what a lawyer says in court, what is pleaded in court, and consequently the judgment, have been immune from defamation, libel, and slander, said Joshi.

The bench will continue hearing on Wednesday
Imphal, Manipur Public Works Department Minister Govindas Konthoujam on Wednesday said the recent security review meeting in Delhi, convened by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, was an executive meeting rather than a political one, and therefore, Chief Minister N Biren Singh was not a part of it. CM did not attend Delhi security meet since it was not political: Manipur PWD minister

He was responding to allegations by the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, which claimed that not inviting Singh to the meeting violated Schedule 7 of the Constitution.

The minister also criticised the statement by AICC leader Pawan Khera, who had suggested that Singh's exclusion from the meeting indicated a lack of confidence in him.

"We need to understand that Manipur has a security advisor appointed by the government of India to oversee the state's law and order situation. The post of the chairman of the Unified Command is also held by the security advisor, not by Singh. The Delhi meeting was an executive meeting and not a political one, hence Singh was not included," Konthoujam said.

"There is no such thing as humiliating the people of the state by not inviting the CM to the security review meeting," he added.

Terming the recent violence in Jiribum as unfortunate, Konthoujam emphasised that both the Manipur and central governments are working hard to restore peace in the area.

Condemning the ambush on the advance security convoy of CM near Kotlen on June 10, the minister described it as the work of those who oppose peace.

At the meeting on June 17, Union Home Minister Shah said the Ministry of Home Affairs will talk to both Meitei and Kuki communities at the earliest so as to bridge the ethnic divide in the state.

Shah also said that the central forces deployment will be increased, if required, and that they should be deployed strategically to restore peace and tranquillity in the state.

He directed that strict action must be taken as per law against the perpetrators of violence in the state.

Shah also directed to ensure that no further incident of violence take place in the state which has been witnessing ethnic clashes for over a year.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar demanding that the statues shifted within the Parliament complex should be restored to their original positions, PTI reported. Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge (ANI Photo)(Naeem Ansari)

Kharge, in two separate but identical letters, said the statues of national leaders have been relocated to a separate corner "arbitrarily" without any consultation and this amounts to violation of the basic spirit of democracy.

Also read | Narendra Modi in Bihar highlights

Alleging that such decisions are made without consultations, Kharge, who is also the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, pointed out that there is a dedicated committee for installing portraits and statues of national leaders and MPs in the Parliament House Complex  Committee on the Installation of Portraits and Statues of National Leaders and Parliamentarians in the Parliament House Complex  but the panel has not been reconstituted since 2019.

The Parliament is getting a major facelift ahead of the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha. Several prominent statues of leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi and B.R Ambedkar have been moved to a dedicated place called the Prerna Sthal (a place of inspiration).

The place was inaugurated by Dhankar on Sunday in an event attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju among others. However, the plan has been opposed by the Opposition parties and not even a single MP from the Opposition attended the event.

Also read | Weather Today News LIVE

Statues scattered around the complex will be housed in the new area, helping to landscape the area and create more open spaces with the new Parliament building in focus.

The Lok Sabha secretariat in a press release said that due to scattered nature of these statues, visitors were not able to see them conveniently. The new Prerna Sthal is designed in such a way that visitors could easily see the statues of these great leaders and take inspiration from their lives and philosophy, said the press release.

Both Om Birla and Jagdeep Dhankar have praised the plan, HT reported.

As these statues were located at different places within the complex, it was difficult for visitors to see all the statues. Many visitors did not even know where these statues stood., said Birla, asking Opposition parties not to play politics on the issue.

Calling the work as praiseworthy, Dhankar said he was very impressed to see that this ground reality will be done in such a grand way.

The government's latest move to relocate statues assumes significance as many MP's staged protests near Gandhi and Ambedkar statues in the past.

Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh called the move as atrocious.

(With PTI inputs)
Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit chief Virendra Sachdeva on Wednesday accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government in Delhi of stealing and looting from the people, who are reeling under severe water crisis in the capital. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Virendra Sachdeva, party MP Bansuri Swaraj and others raise slogans as they stage a protest against the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Delhi government over the ongoing water shortage the national capital on June 19.(ANI)

Sachdeva claimed that the profit of the Delhi Jal Board was 600 crore when the AAP government took over and added that it is now at a loss of 73,000 crore.

Ministers, MLAs, DJB are all under the AAP-led government. They have been stealing and looting people of Delhi from the last 10 years, Sachdeva told PTI. When they (AAP) got DJB, it was in profit of 600 crore and now it is in loss of 73,000 crore. Atishi must answer this.

Sachdeva added that Delhi's water minister Atishi should have written a letter to bring to light her party members who are involved in water theft and black marketing of water,

She should have written a letter to bring to light her party members who are involved in water theft and black marketing of water... She cannot provide water to the people of Delhi but is not leaving her post. Had she been left with some shame, she would've resigned by now, he said, according to ANI.

Several parts of Delhi have been facing an acute shortage of water supply amid an unprecedented high summer heat over the last fortnight.

On Wednesday, Delhi BJP leaders and workers took out protest marches on across the national capital over the looming water crisis in the city.

Virendra Sachdeva took part in the protest at Andrews Ganj, where he was accompanied by New Delhi MP-elect Bansuri Swaraj.

"People are craving for every drop of water. Women spent nights waiting for water tankers while children in many areas are not able to take a bath for days due to scarcity," he said.

Delhi water crisis

The crisis in Delhi resulted from reduced water levels in the Yamuna River and technical issues at key water treatment plants. This disruption has left several areas with little to no water supply, forcing people to rely on tankers and borewells.

The ruling AAP government has also alleged that Haryana has not been releasing Delhi's share of water.

On Wednesday, Delhi water minister Atishi said that she has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking his intervention on the ongoing water crisis in the national Capital adding that she will sit on an indefinite fast from Friday if the issue is not resolved.

Also Read | Delhi water crisis: Atishi demands police protection for pipelines

We have tried all possible steps by requesting the Haryana government and petitioning the Supreme Court. We have sought intervention from Union jal shakti minister. On Tuesday, a high-level delegation of officers from Delhi met Haryana government officers but they refused to provide any water... The suffering of the people of Delhi has crossed all limits. I have written to Prime Minister Modi requesting his intervention. If Delhis rightful share of water is not provided in the next two days, I will start a satyagraha for water. I will start an indefinite fast till Delhi gets its water, the minister said while addressing media persons.
Tuesday night was Delhis hottest in at least 55 years, with a temperature of 35.2C, data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) showed, as a scorching, unprecedented summer tightened its debilitating grip on the national capital, squeezing its water supply and sending hundreds of people to hospital with heat-induced illness. As temperatures rise in Delhi-NCR, commuters cover their heads to escape the heat (Photo by Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times)

The citys power demand also surged to a new high of 8,656 megawatts (mw), setting a record for a second consecutive day on Wednesday afternoon, said data from local discoms.

Delhi's power demand at all-time high amid severe heatwave; touches 8,656 MW

IMD data logged from 1969 showed that Tuesday nights temperature was eight degrees above normal and eclipsed the previous high of 34.9C on May 23, 1972, even as the weather office forecast that the unrelenting heatwave, now 11 days long, will let up to some extent by Thursday.

To be sure, the weather agency said it was yet to analyse data between 1901 and 1968, and it may well be that Tuesday night was Delhis hottest ever recorded.

It was also the citys sixth straight warm night  declared when the maximum temperature is above 40C and the minimum 4.5C or more above normal  as the singed earth, baked by the full might of the sun throughout the day, struggled to dissipate heat even hours after sundown.

The maximum temperature at the Safdarjung base station on Wednesday dipped marginally to 43.6C, five degrees above normal and within IMDs heatwave threshold. It was 44C on Tuesday. Delhis heat index, or real-feel temperature, however, was unchanged at 51C.

Delhis maximum temperature has been over 40C for 37 consecutive days now.

And if all of this wasnt enough, Delhis air quality tumbled on Wednesday as well, as strong, dusty winds that have blown in from the western deserts for most of the month settled down and kept local pollutants suspended in the air. The air quality index (AQI) worsened from 196 (moderate) on Tuesday to 306 (very poor) on Wednesday.

The humidity oscillated between 31% and 47% throughout the day.

According to the weather office, an incoming western disturbance on Thursday may push the maximum temperature down to 42C and the minimum to 33C.

The early effects of this western disturbance, however, likely worsened the heat on Tuesday night, said weather officials.

We were already recording high minimum temperatures, but the approaching western disturbance added more moisture and cloud cover late on Tuesday and in the early hours of Wednesday. High clouds keep heat loss low, said an IMD official.

The official added that IMD will assess detailed weather records before 1969 towards the end of the month.

India's coal dependence for power to be highest in nine years as heatwaves intensify

Normally for extreme weather, we look at 30-year-old data. For Safdarjung, data between 1969 and 2024, which was available, was analysed. We will assess older data at the end of the month, said the official.

Mahesh Palawat, vice-president of Skymet, a private weather forecaster, said such soaring minimums were unprecedented.

We do have high minimums in May and June, but not to this extent, said Palawat.

We are currently seeing strong westerly winds blowing even at night-time and for the last few days, are seeing a double impact of cloudiness from a western disturbance. From July onwards, the minimum starts to dip again as we see monsoon rains in Delhi, he said.

The difference between the maximum and minimum temperatures was just 8.4C at Safdarjung on Wednesday and has been shrinking for the past couple of days, with the night providing little succour from the day.

This gap between maximum and minimum temperature was 10.2C on Tuesday and 12.2C on Monday. Around this time of the year, the gap stretches to around 15C, with the minimum dipping to 30C on most nights in May and June, the hottest summer months.

Delhi has not recorded any significant rain since May. The surface is heating up and dry, westerly winds are sweeping through even at night, not allowing this heat to be lost into the atmosphere, he added.

Delhis wet-bulb temperature, another indicator of comfort levels outside, was between 27.5C and 28.5C on Wednesday, up from 27.1C-27.5C a day earlier.

A higher wet bulb temperature makes it difficult for people to remain outside, let alone work outdoors. A wet-bulb of 32C or higher makes it difficult for even fit and acclimatised people to work outdoors for long and at a wet-bulb temperature of 35C  the maximum threshold  humans can no longer regulate body temperatures, leading to heatstrokes and potential collapse.

HT on June 8 reported that this is Delhis driest start to the year since 2018, with only 44.7mm of rain recorded at Safdarjung between the first five months of this year. This is only 42% of the long-period average of 104.8mm, which Delhis base observatory receives in the first five months of the year. The last time Delhi received less rainfall at the start of the year was 43.5mm in 2018.

IMD sets date for monsoon onset in Delhi-NCR as residents reel under heatwave

Vishwas Chitale, senior programme lead, Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) warned that the climate crisis would precipitate more such unfettered heatwaves.

These high nighttime temperatures pose serious health concerns, as they prevent the earth from cooling down after the daytime heat. It is becoming increasingly clear that due to climate change, boiling summers are the new normal and that we need year-round preparedness to be more proactive than reactive in dealing with heatwaves, Chitale said.
New Delhi: Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader and Rajya Sabha member of parliament MM Abdulla has complained to Vice President and Rajya Sabha chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar about alleged misbehaviour by a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel, who, according to the MP, questioned him on the purpose of his visit to the Parliament complex. Following a security breach in December last year, the government handed over the security of the complex to CISF (Representative Photo)

The Tamil Nadu MP in his letter said that upon entering the Parliament House Estate on Tuesday, he was stopped by the CISF personnel, who asked the purpose of his visit and where he was headed inside the premises

I am appalled by this behavior of the CISF personnel who questioned me on the purpose of my visit to the Parliament, a place where I represent the interests of the people and the State of Tamil Nadu. Such an unprecedented misbehavior has never happened earlier while the PSS (Parliament Security Services) was in charge of security, Abdulla said in his letter.

Pointing out that a lawmaker cannot be barred from visiting the complex between sessions, the DMK MP went on to say,...I strongly believe that Members of Parliament can enter the Parliament even if they do not have any official engagements and if I have any engagements, I am liable to disclose it to and answerable only to My Chairman, who is the Custodian of the Rajya Sabha.

In response to the MPs letter, a CISF officer aware of the development, said,  The CISF jawan wanted to help the new MP and thus asked him where he was visiting and if he needed help. The honourable MP was not stopped.

This is not the first time MPs have raised concern about being stopped and questioned by the CISF after the agency was given charge of the security of the complex.

The security was earlier handled by the Parliament Security Service, Delhi police and the Central Reserve Police Force.

Following a security breach in December last year, when two youths jumped into the Lok Sabha chamber from the visitors gallery, the government handed over the security of the complex to CISF.
The Union education ministry on Wednesday cancelled the UGC-NET examination a day after it was conducted and said the integrity of the process may have been compromised, potentially jeopardising the futures of 900,000 students who appeared for the test. The delay in the UGC-NET exam will almost certainly affect PhD admission schedules as universities across India depend on NET scores to decide merit lists (HT)

The announcement adds fire to a swirling controversy around skewed results and allegations of paper leaks that have vitiated the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test this year, and will spark more questions about the processes followed by the National Testing Agency.

Centre cancels UGC-NET after reports of integrity of exam being compromised

The University Grants Commission (UGC) National Eligibility Test (NET) is conducted by the National Testing Agency twice a year for PhD admissions, assistant professorship and for the awarding of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF).

The June edition of the exam was held on June 18 with 908, 580 candidates appearing at 1, 200 centres, taking the test 83 subjects using pen and paper on OMR sheets.

But 24 hours later, the education ministry said that the UGC, Indias higher education regulator, received certain inputs from the National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit of Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the home ministry on the examination.

These inputs prima-facie indicate that the integrity of the aforesaid examination may have been compromised, the ministry said in a statement.

To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, the ministry of education, Government of India has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 examination be cancelled, the ministry added.

A fresh examination will be conducted and information will be shared separately. Simultaneously, the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (C.B.I.) for thorough investigation in the matter, the ministry said.

The unprecedented developments came in a year NTA decided to move away from the computerised test format and hold the exam physically on a single day. This was the first time after five years that a physical NET exam was held.

The delay in the UGC-NET exam will almost certainly affect PhD admission schedules as universities across India depend on NET scores to decide merit lists.

Kamalakar Shete, UGC-NET candidate and student activist, said that he was deeply concerned by the incident.

This situation underscores the critical need for robust and foolproof security measures in our examination system. While the decision to cancel the examination is disappointing for all candidates who have invested considerable time and effort in preparation, it is a necessary step to uphold the fairness and credibility of the examination process, he said.

I urge the authorities to act swiftly and transparently in rescheduling the exam and implementing stronger security measures to restore confidence in the examination system, he said.

The cancellation comes at a time chaos is engulfing Indias premier medical entrance examination. For weeks, protests have swept across India as thousands of students hit the streets against this years process amid allegations of question paper leaks, inflated marking and arbitrary allowance of grace marks, even as opposition parties called for a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the allegations.

The government has repeatedly said it will not tolerate malpractice and irregularities but also ruled out scrapping the entire examination over what it calls were problems in a handful of centres.

This years NEET has been shrouded in controversy after allegations surfaced that in one centre in Rajasthan, students appearing for the Hindi medium test got question papers in English amid reports of torn OMR sheets and delay in distribution of question papers. A case was lodged in Patna over an alleged paper leak, after which the police arrested 13 people involved in solving question papers and supplying answers as part of a racket. The arrested people include four examinees.

At least 10 petitions have been filed in the top court since then. Almost all of them will be heard on July 8 by a bench likely headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud. In all 2.4 million students sat for NEET at 4,750 centres spread across 571 cities around the world.

UGC NET June 2024 exam cancelled, Education Ministry says integrity of exam might have been compromised

On Wednesday, the education ministry said a detailed report was sought from the Economic Offences Unit, Bihar Police in connection with certain irregularities alleged in the conduct of the NEET examination in Patna.

The government is committed to ensure the sanctity of examinations and protect the interest of students. It is reiterated that any individual/organisation found to be involved in this matter will face strictest action, the ministry said.
India and Sri Lanka are set to review the implementation of projects backed by New Delhi and the overall bilateral relationship during external affairs minister S Jaishankars visit to Colombo on June 20, people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. External affairs minister S Jaishankar. (File)

This will be Jaishankars first bilateral visit following the formation of the new National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government. He is set to meet the leadership of Sri Lanka and discuss wide-ranging issues of the partnership, the external affairs ministry said in a statement.

Reaffirming Indias Neighbourhood First policy, the visit underlines Indias continued commitment to Sri Lanka as its closest maritime neighbour and time-tested friend, the statement said. The visit will also add momentum to connectivity projects and other mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors, it added.

Besides holding talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart Ali Sabry, Jaishankar is expected to meet President Ranil Wickremesinghe and leaders of different political parties. These meetings assume significance as Sri Lanka is expected to hold its presidential election later this year, the people said on condition of anonymity.

The visit will be an opportunity for the two sides to review initiatives for economic, energy and physical connectivity and several India-backed development projects, the people said.

Wickremesinghe was among the leaders of seven regional countries invited to the inauguration of Prime Minister Narendra Modis third term on June 9. Jaishankar met Wickremesinghe the following day and a readout issued by the Sri Lankan presidents office said the external affairs minister had addressed the swift resumption of development projects initiated in Sri Lanka with Indian investments, which had been halted midway.

The readout further quoted Jaishankar as saying that he would expedite work on development projects funded by Indian investments. He also highlighted plans for an industrial zone in Trincomalee, to be established by the Indian government to attract Indian and foreign investors.

Modis proposed visit to Sri Lanka and the issue of fishermen from both sides being detained for transgressing the maritime boundary are also expected to come up during Jaishankars trip, the people said.
Bhubaneswar, BJD president Naveen Patnaik, the five-term chief minister of Odisha, will be the leader of the opposition in the new Odisha assembly after his party lost power to the BJP. Five-term CM Naveen Patnaik to be Odisha's new leader of opposition

Speaking to reporters, Patnaik said the decision was taken at the BJD's legislature party meeting held on Wednesday.

"We had a meeting of the MLAs of the BJD. I congratulated and thanked them. They have elected me as the leader of the opposition and leader of the BJD legislature party," he said.

At the meeting, different matters, including recent elections, were discussed, he added.

Later, Patnaik told reporters, "My party and I will continue working hard for the people of Odisha."

Rairakhol MLA Prasanna Acharya, a former state minister, was named the deputy leader of the opposition, while former speaker Pramila Mallik, the MLA of Binjharpur, would be the chief whip of the opposition in the House.

Patnaik named former minister Pratap Keshari Deb, the MLA of Aul, as the deputy chief whip of the opposition in the assembly.

Acharya said, "We are now the strongest opposition in the history of Odisha. For the last 24 years, we served the people of Odisha. Every month, every year, every day and every hour, we spent on the development of Odisha and the progress of the people. As opposition also, we will work in that direction."

Mallik said the BJD would fight for the interests of farmers, youths and women in the assembly.

The BJD, which ruled the state for 24 years, lost power to the BJP in the recently concluded assembly elections.

While the BJP formed the government by securing 78 seats in the 147-member Odisha assembly, the BJD secured 51 seats. Congress bagged 14 seats, CPI got one, and three Independent candidates also won.

Patnaik, who was the longest-serving chief minister of Odisha, will lead the opposition for the first time. He became the CM in 2000 and led a coalition government with the BJP till 2009. After the alliance tumbled, Patnaik single-handedly led the BJD to victory in three more assembly elections, held in 2009, 2014 and 2019.

Before becoming the CM, he was a minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led NDA government at the Centre.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
NEW DELHI: The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi days into the start of his third term, on Wednesday approved raising minimum support prices (MSPs) for an array of kharif, or summer-sown crops, setting them at a minimum of 1.5 times the cost of production so that farmers get 50% returns. Farmers harvesting the wheat crop in Jaspal Bangar village in Ludhiana on Wednesday (HT FILE PHOTO/Gurpreet Singh)

The revised MSPs, which act as benchmark prices at which government purchases farm produce, especially cereals, come just ahead of the monsoon sowing season, which supplies half of the countrys annual food supply. In step with its long-standing policy, the government announced bigger hikes in the floor prices of pulses and oilseeds to boost their cultivation as India still relies on imports of these items to meet domestic demand.

The government set the floor rate for common variety of rice, the summer staple, at 2,300 a quintal (100 kg), an increase of 117 and up 5% from the previous seasons MSP of 2,183 a quintal.

The third term of PM Modi is very important as it focuses on continuity with change through many decisions for farmers welfare, said Union information and broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who announced the decision.

Among key varieties of pulses, the government hiked the MSP of pigeon pea (tur) to 7,550 a quintal, up 7.8% from the previous seasons rate of 7,000 a quintal. The MSP for green gram (moong) has been fixed at 8,682, which is 1.5% higher than last year. The floor rate for urad, another key pulse variety, was raised to 7,400 a quintal, up 6.4% from the previous kharif season.

In the oilseeds category, which yields vegetable oils, the MSP for groundnut has been set at 6,783 a quintal from 6,377 earlier, an increase of 6%. The rate for soybeans has been set at 4,892, which represents an increase of 6.3% from 4,600 a quintal in the previous year.

The government also hiked the floor rate of sunflower seeds to 7,280 a quintal from 6,760, up 15.6%, the largest jump in prices among oilseeds.

Farmers are currently preparing to plant a range of crops, such as rice, soybean, pulses, cotton and sugarcane, which depend on the June-September monsoon system. If the summer rains are robust as predicted, it will help boost sowing and coverage of major crops critical to keep a lid on prices.

Sufficient harvests will also allow the worlds second-largest rice and sugar producer to lift the ban on the export of these commodities and calm local prices.

Farm incomes are critically dependent, at least in the case of rice and wheat, on the MSP-backed procurement programme. Yet, only about 32.2% of paddy growers and 39.2% of wheat farmers were aware of MSP, according to the 70th round of the National Sample Survey for 201213. Crucially, only 13.5% of rice farmers and 16.2% of wheat farmers were able to sell their produce at MSPs, the data showed.

Farmers tend to benefit from MSPs in states where the procurement mechanism  or the governments buying of farm produce -- is robust, such as Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh for wheat and Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and Haryana in the case of paddy.

Among commercial crops, the MSP for cotton has been fixed at 7,121, which is 7% higher than the earlier rate of 6,620. The MSP for bajra or pearl millet has been set at 2,625 per quintal, offering significant support for millet farmers.

The government announced in the Union Budget 2018-19 that it would increase MSPs in a manner that ensures 50% returns to farmers.

Farm unions, however, said the increases in MSP were not enough to cover increasing costs. The hikes in MSP hardly cover rising input costs on labour, pesticides and diesel incurred by farmers. Moreover, MSP is merely symbolic for most commodities other than paddy because the government either doesnt procure them or procures token quantities, said Rakesh Tikait, leader of the Bharatiya Kisan Union.
AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat high court on Wednesday decided to watch the movie Maharaj to see if the film, slated for release on Netflix, hurts the religious sentiments of the Pustimargi sect. (Gujarat High Court)

Justice Sangeeta Vishen said if the court finds that there was nothing that hurts religious sentiments in the film, then the case would rest. You are only concerned if the movie is hurting the religious feelings of a particular sect or not, the bench told senior counsel Mihir Joshi, who appeared for the petitioners.

The film, which stars Aamir Khans son Junaid Khan and Jaideep Ahlawat in the lead roles, is based on a landmark libel case of 1862 filed by a leading Vaishnavite figure, Jadunathji, against journalist and social reformer Karsandas Mulji who had written against sexual exploitation by the all-powerful Maharaj. Muljis expose of the exploitative practice in his magazine The Satyaprakash led to a libel case which became the celebrated Maharaj Libel Case.

Also Read: Cant erase legal history: Netflix tells HC against stay on Maharaj release

On June 13, the high court stopped Netflix from releasing the movie, leading the streaming giant and filmmaker Yash Raj Films to approach the high court for relief.

The petitioners, including the Pustimargi sect, sought orders against the films release on the assumption that it showed the Vaishnav sect in a bad light, was likely to incite feelings of hatred and violence against the sect, and that it may hurt public sentiments at large with its reportedly controversial depiction of certain characters and practices.

The bench, which started hearing detailed arguments in the case on Tuesday, took up the production house on its offer to screen the film for the court on Wednesday and asked the other stakeholders to see if they reach a consensus on this point.

An hour later, senior lawyer Mihir Joshi who appeared for the petitioners, said he was on board. The court may watch the movie and assess if its defamatory or not we dont have any commercial interests or anything against Netflix or Yash Raj Films. Please watch it. If the film does not run down our religion, let them go ahead with public viewing. We dont want to stretch the matter at all, Joshi said.

Shalin Mehta, who appeared for Yash Raj Films, said that the production house wanted to pursue the case on the maintainability of the petition irrespective of the outcome of the screening, pointing out that his client was losing money for every day of delay in the release of the film.

The bench, however, brushed aside the reasoning, saying the filmmakers got a Central Board of Film Certification nod in May 2023. There was no rule or law restricting the movies release. But you waited till June (14). So one day here or there may not affect much, she said.

Mehta sought to assure the petitioners that the film did not report on the judgment but the trial. Not a single line from the judgement is read out in the film except that the case has been dismissed after 32 witnesses examined, he said, responding to petitioners alleging that the judges of the Supreme Court of Bombay in 1862, castigated the Hindu religion and made blasphemous comments against Lord Krishna, as well as the devotional songs and hymns.
The Bombay high court on Wednesday allowed the release of controversial film 'Hamare Baarah' after makers agreed to delete objectionable portions, Live Law reported. Poster of film Hamare Baarah(File)

A division bench comprising Justice BP Colabawalla and Justice Firdosh Pooniwalla passed the order permitting the films release a day after they observed that it does not offend the religious sentiments of the Muslim community or distort the teachings of the Quran. The court observed that the film, which has been a topic of widespread discussion due to its narrative on overpopulation, is in fact aimed at upliftment of women.

Read: Hamare Baarah movie does not offend Muslims religious sentiments: HC

Annu Kapoor-starrer Hamare Baarah movie had courted controversy with its first trailer, which the court also found objectionable. After watching Hamare Baarah, the bench said that all such objectionable scenes have been deleted from the movie.

"The movie is in fact for the upliftment of women. The movie has a Maulana misinterpreting the Quran and in fact one Muslim man objects to the same in the scene. So this shows that people should apply their mind and not blindly follow such Maulanas," the high court said.

The court also observed that a 5 lakh fine on the filmmakers for releasing the trailer with uncertified scenes would be appropriate, and directed that the amount be donated to a charity of the petitioners choice.

Violation was their vis-a-vis the trailer. So, you will have to pay something towards charity of the petitioners choice. Cost will have to be paid. This litigation has got the film so much unpaid publicity, the court said.

Hamare Baarah was initially scheduled for release on June 7, and later on June 14. The new release date is still not known.

The film has been jointly produced by Birender Bhagat, Ravi S Gupta, Sanjay Nagpal, and Sheo Balak Singh, and directed by Kamal Chandra.'

The film stars Annu Kapoor, Manoj Joshi, and Paritosh Tripathi.
Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday hit out at his Delhi counterpart Arvind Kejriwal over the water crisis in the national capital.



We are giving water to Delhi but the Delhi govt has not been able to streamline the water distribution system there. Due to mistakes made by Kejriwal, the people of Delhi are suffering, Saini was quoted by ANI as saying.



ALSO READ: Delhi water crisis: BJP accuses AAP of stealing and looting from citizens



Continuing his attack on the Aam Aadmi Party convenor, Saini said,"Kejriwal misled people and set them aside to focus on corruption. He went to jail due to corruption and his ministers including deputy CM were arrested."



ALSO READ: Delhi govt for larger water share: 1994 MoU cant meet demand



The war of words between neighbours Delhi and Haryana continues, even as the residents are forced to scramble with their buckets towards tankers in this seeing heat.



The ruling Aam Aadmi Party government has blamed Haryana for releasing less water to Delhi. On Wednesday, Delhi's water resources minister Atishi wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention in the water crisis. She threatened to sit on an indefinite fast if the issue is not resolved by Friday.



ALSO READ: Delhi water crisis: DJB office vandalised, 3 injured in clash over tap access



We have tried all possible steps by requesting the Haryana government and petitioning the Supreme Court. We have sought intervention from Union jal shakti minister. On Tuesday, a high-level delegation of officers from Delhi met Haryana government officers but they refused to provide any water, the Delhi minister told reporters.



"Yesterday, Haryana released 513 MGD of water to Delhi as against 613 MGD. One MGD of water is for 28,500 people. This means that water was not released for over 28 lakh people," Atishi added.



AAP's INDIA bloc ally Congress said that Atishi should have written the letter to Modi earlier. The Delhi government should have prepared a good plan involving availability of water and its distribution, Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav said.



(With agency inputs)



Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini.
NEW DELHI: High night-time temperatures have a huge impact on the health of people who dont have access to cooling, according to an analysis by Gujarat-based Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH) which helped in planning Ahmedabads heat response policy. A guard drinks water while being silhouetted against the hot summer sun, at Ashram Flyover in New Delhi, India, on Wednesday. (Hindustan Times)

The analysis, based on average daily deaths in Ahmedabad between 2001 and 2016, concluded that all-cause mortality rates nearly doubled when the maximum temperature was above 45C and the night-time temperature was also above 30C , compared to when night-time temperatures remained between 28 to 30C.

This happens because the body doesnt get rest. Normally, night is the time to recuperate from the impact of extreme heat, but if you do not get rest at night, then your body will be in overdrive. For example, if I ask someone to run and instead of giving rest intermittently, I say you can only slow to a brisk walk and then run again, the person will collapse. The same thing is happening when day and night temperatures are both extremely high, said Dr Dileep Mavalankar, former director at IIPH Gandhinagar.

Dr Mavalankar said it was important to track all-cause mortality during the heatwave periods with data from the past to understand the excess mortality that may have been contributed by heat.

Delhi on Wednesday recorded a minimum temperature of 35.2C  eight notches above normal and the highest minimum temperature for June since 1969, according to India Meteorological Department (IMD). This was also the sixth day on the trot that Delhi recorded a warm night  defined by IMD as when the maximum temperature is over 40C, and the minimum is 4.5C or more above normal.

Several other places over northwest India and east India have been recording warm to severe warm night conditions including Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in May and June.

India is yet to release mortality figures from the current heat crisis.

Ahmedabad faced a heat wave in May 2010 when the temperature reached a high of 46.8 degrees C with a substantial increase in mortality. According to an IIPH paper published in March 2014 in Plos One, 4,462 all-cause deaths occurred in May 2010 (severe heat wave period), comprising an excess of 1,344 all-cause deaths. This was an estimated 43.1% increase over the 3,118 deaths in the reference period.

According to a paper published in Lancet Planetary Health in August 2022 titled: The effects of night-time warming on mortality burden under future climate change scenarios: a modelling study, the authors analysed a dataset comprising 28 cities across three countries (Japan, South Korea, and China), including 91,85,598 deaths. The time-series analyses showed the hot night excess was significantly associated with increased mortality risks, the relative mortality risk on days with hot nights could be 50% higher than on days with non-hot nights.

During periods of hot days and nights, the body doesnt get time to cool down and people often do not get sleep which increases the chances of a heat stroke. This is being seen now in people with no cooling systems at home and mostly among the elderly and babies. That is also because both these categories have poor temperature regulation mechanisms, said Dr Sumit Ray, Critical Care Specialist and medical director, Holy Family Hospital.

Apart from hot nights, humidity also has a huge impact on mortality. The mortality is likely to be more in areas with high humidity combined with high temperatures because of high heat index. So, states like West Bengal and Bihar may see higher impact, and hence they must monitor all-cause mortality on daily basis at least in big cities, added Dr Mavalankar.

According to data compiled by IMD, between March 1 to June 9, the highest heat wave days have been recorded over Odisha (27) followed by Rajasthan (23), Gangetic West Bengal (21), Haryana (20), Chandigarh (20), Delhi (20) and West Uttar Pradesh (20).

According to scientists, even fit people will overheat and potentially die within 6 hours at wet bulb temperatures above 35C.

A wet-bulb temperature (TW) of 35C marks our upper physiological limit, and much lower values have serious health and productivity impacts, according to the emergence of heat and humidity too severe for human tolerance, a paper led by scientists from Jet Propulsion Laboratory/California Institute of Technology, USA, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Columbia University. This is simply because evaporation of sweat is a cooling mechanism but at a wet bulb of around 35 degrees C, the human body can no longer cool itself by evaporating sweat, and exposure can lead to hyperthermia, an abnormally high body temperature.

The heat index gives a sense of what people may be experiencing because it combines relative humidity with the air temperature. On Wednesday, IMDs heat index indicated that parts of northwest and east India were recording the feels like temperature of 40 to 60 degrees C.

The burden is naturally disproportionately high on those living without access to cooling through day and night.

We already know how hot nights can lead to a rise in deaths. Adaptation solutions are needed immediately for the most vulnerable so they have to be targeted and cooling solutions have to be provided to housing economically weaker sections. And by cooling we do not mean air conditioning. Telangana government has started its cool roof policy. We need more passive cooling measures in these houses, better ventilation etc. We need a response to extreme heat so that there is no loss of life, said Abhiyant Tiwari, lead climate resilience and health consultant at NRDC India.

"People who are suffering the most are not well to do. But some elderly persons from homes with access to cooling are also reporting with symptoms of heat exhaustion. The recommendation to all would be to avoid heavy physical exertion during peak temperature hours. Avoid going out for a run in the sun, or even for a walk, do not work out in spaces without cooling. For those who have to work outdoors and do not have alternatives, they must also avoid peak afternoon hours and have access to safe, clean drinking water. But do they have a choice? We are seeing cases of acute gastroenteritis, severe dehydration and heat stress symptoms among people. This is possibly because they have developed a stomach infection also which has led to further dehydration, Dr Ray at Holy Family Hospital explained.

In cases of emergency, like those running high fever one can consider putting cool packs or towels in armpits, groin, forehead with tepid water and then let that water evaporate under the fan. But those having high fever, vomiting, and / or diarrhoea should seek medical help at a facility immediately, Dr Ray cautioned.

Millions in India endure extreme heat each day. They are exposed to the scorching sun; they do not have access to cooling devices; they see their land bake; their water dry up. They are the true victims of climate change. The irony is that they are not responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions that have caused the planet to heat up. The irony is also that the electricity that cools me and many others, will contribute to the stock of emissions and force the planet to further heat up, said Sunita Narain, director general, Centre for Science and Environment.
A city-based college on Wednesday argued before the Bombay High Court that the ban on hijab, naqab and burka on its premises was only meant to enforce a uniform dress code and did not seek to target the Muslim community. Students wearing Hijab (File image) (ANI)

Nine female students last week moved the HC challenging the directive issued by the Chembur Trombay Education Society's N G Acharya and D K Marathe College imposing a dress code which bans hijab, naqab, burka, stoles, caps and any kind of badges.

Also read | Narendra Modi in Bihar highlights

The petitioners, second and third-year science degree students, said the rule violated their fundamental right to practice religion, right to privacy and "right to choice." The college's action was "arbitrary, unreasonable, bad in law and perverse", they claimed.

A division bench of Justices A S Chandurkar and Rajesh Patil on Wednesday asked the petitioners' lawyer which religious authority says that wearing a hijab is an essential part of Islam. The court also asked the college management whether it had the power to impose such a ban.

After hearing arguments from both the sides, the high court said it would pass an order on June 26. Advocate Altaf Khan, the petitioners' lawyer, cited certain verses from the Quran to support their contention. Besides the right to practice one's religion, the petitioners were also relying on their "right to choice and privacy", he said.

Also read | Weather Today News LIVE

Senior counsel Anil Anturkar, appearing for the college, said the dress code was for students of every religion and caste. "This is not an order against Muslims alone. This dress code restriction is for all religions. This is so that students need not openly roam around disclosing their religion. People come to college to study. Let the students do that and focus only on that and leave everything else outside," he argued.

Wearing hijab, naqab or burka is not an essential part or practice of Islam, advocate Anturkar argued, adding, "If tomorrow a student comes dressed in full 'bhagwa' clothing, the college will oppose that too. Why is it necessary to openly disclose one's religion or caste? Will a Brahmin roam around with his sacred thread outside his clothes?" The college management is providing a room where students can change out of their hijabs before going to classrooms, the lawyer pointed out.

Also read | Students file writ against hijab ban in Chembur college

Advocate Khan, on the other hand, argued that until now the petitioners and several other students attended classes wearing hijab, naqab and burka, and it was not an issue. "Now what happened suddenly? Why was this ban imposed now? The dress code directive says wear decent clothes. So is the college management saying that hijab, naqab and burka are indecent clothing or revealing ?" he asked. The petition claimed that the college's directive was "nothing but colourable exercise of power".

Before moving the court, they approached the chancellor and vice chancellor of the University of Mumbai and also the University Grant Commission seeking their intervention "to upkeep the spirit of imparting education to all citizens without discrimination", but did not receive any response, the petition said.
Cairo: The proclamation of a republic in Egypt yesterday has strengthened the countrys military movement which has now become the supreme custodian of the people. HT This Day: June 20, 1953 -- People to decide type of Republican system: Egypts Gen Naguib (HT Photo)

The proclamation and the Cabinet reshuffle came at a crucial time in view of the forthcoming visit of Mr Mohammed Ali and Mr Nehru to Cairo.

Egyptian Press reports have said that the two Premiers are coming with the hope of solving the Suez Canal zone dispute between Britain and Egypt.

Diplomatic circles believe that everything is now set for a fresh conference to settle the issue.

In cutting the last ties with monarchy. Gen. Naguib has removed all chances of the provisional Regent Prince Abdel Moneim, in the event of an unexpected upheaval, becoming the supreme authority in Egypt.

Gen. Naguib, with members of the Revolutionary Council drove triumphantly to Sayedna el Hussein Mosque in the Cairo bazar area to say their Friday noon prayers.

To the accompaniment of cheers by thousands they drove in open cars from Army H.Q. to the mosque. The mosque service was broadcast.

Sheikh Abdullah el Maraghy, Director of Mosques. told the faithful: It is a happy event that Allah should follow the blessing of the Bairam Feast with the blessing of the happy newly-born Republic. We pray to Allah that He shall extend its life, give it strength and support and look after it with His never-sleeping eye.

 The republic has come on the lines of the Caliphate of Emir el Momneen Omar Ibn el Khattab (Islams second Caliph) whose Caliphate contributed greatly to laying the foundations of a sound life both spiritually and materially.

We pray to Allah that He may bless the new republic and grant happiness to the Egyptian nation. 

Gen. Naguibs broadcast

Gen. Naguib said in a broadcast last night that  the new regime will be maintained throughout the three-year transitional period and the people will have the final word as to the type of republican system they desire and will elect a President of their own choosing under the new constitution.

The revolution since its inception had aimed at the annihilation of imperialism and its supporters. On July 26 last the Revolutionary Council demanded the abdication of ex-King Farouk because he represented the cornerstone upon which imperialism rested.

Since that date and since the dissolution of political parties the whole nation was unanimously resolved to put an end to certain reactionary elements who have exploited power derived from the monarchical system.

Under the biggest ever banner headlines and in red the Egyptian Press welcomed the proclamation.

The Revolutionary Council statement summarizes the plight of Egypt under the rule of former Kings who acted as collaborators for an imperialist Power and obstructed the countrys progress.

The Egyptian people will decide the form of the republic for now there is rule of the people by the people for the people. Every Egyptian can now say: I determine my own destiny.

Farouks reaction

Ex-King Farouk, who is staying at a luxury hotel in Paris, declined to comment on the proclamation.

One of his secretaries told reporters the ex-King was still studying the Cairo announcement.  His Majesty also wants to have some idea about the reaction in the U.S.A., Britain and other countries before making a declaration, the secretary said. He believed that if any statement were to be made it would come through Farouks Rome lawyer, Sgr. Carlo Damelio.

Before the proclamation, which ends one of the worlds oldest monarchies, Gen. Naguib relinquished the war portfolio to Sq/ Ldr. Abdel Latif Boghdadi, member of the Revolutionary Council, and made Maj. Abdel Hkim Amer, another member of the Council, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, a post also held by Gen. Naguib. He also brought two other top military men into his hitherto all-civilian Cabinet.

He made Lt.-Col. Gamal Abdel Nasser Vice-Premier and Minister of the Interior, with control of the police, in place of Suleiman Hafez.

Maj. Salah Salem, who has often acted as spokesman for Gen. Naguibs regime, becomes Minister of National Guidance in place of Mohamed Fuad Galal.

Mahmoud Fawzi remains Foreign Minister.

Egypt, though remaining officially a monarchy since the deposition of Farouk, has been ruled by a congress of a 13-member army committee and a civilian Cabinet, with the reins of power firmly in the hands of Gen. Naguib himself.

In the meantime. symbols of royalty have been steadily disappearing - for instance. the removal of the word  royal  from the title of the Egyptian Air Force.

At the same time a 50-man constitution drafting committee has been at work on a new constitution for Egypt.

Gen. Naguib declared himself in favour of a republic in the Egyptian official journal on May 6 when in an interview he said that as an ordinary citizen I wish to see a system of government in Egypt develop in such a way as to place all authority in the hands of the people.

 My personal opinion is that the monarchical system of government has decayed and is no longer fit for the age wherein we live.

A sub-committee of 15 members of the Constitution Drafting Committee declared last April that a parliamentary republican system would be the best regime for the country, but it recommended a referendum free from martial law.

Its findings endorsed the views of a smaller technical body which studied various constitutional systems in other countries.

Other sub-committees have been reporting on questions of public freedom, citizens rights and other aspects.

Gen. Naguib himself appointed the Committee after abrogating the 1923 monarchist Constitution.

Farouks exit was accompanied by a Press campaign against the maintenance of the throne.

A recent unofficial newspaper poll of a cross-section of Egyptian opinion returned 90 per cent in favour of a republic.

Councils decision

At a Press conference last night Maj. Salah Salem, the new Minister of National Guidance, said:  We officers of the Army, Revolutionary Council have reconsidered the situation in the light of the latest factual developments and have drawn a new, complete system of government during the transition period in order to lay a solid foundation for absolute stability.

 We proclaim the abolition of the monarchy and the deposing of infant King Ahmed Faud II and the end of the Mohammed Aly dynasty.

We proclaim a republic with Gen. Mohammed Naguib as President.

He will retain all his powers under the provisional constitution during the transition period.

 But I would like to make it quite clear that the last word regarding republican rule - whether a presidential or parliamentary system - shall be subject to a popular referendum after the completion of the drafting of a new constitution and the return to parliamentary life.

 The people will also have the right to elect a President.

 The present appointment of Gen. Naguib as President is natural because he is the leader of the revolution.

 The situation has compelled us to include a number of officers in the Government while maintaining their position in the Army Revolutionary Council.

There would be no change in the foreign policy - except that we are now in a better position to handle our foreign policy.

 We shall certainly move faster towards achieving our national aspirations, he added.

The main reason for the new constitutional changes was to maintain real and firm co-operation between the army, the Revolutionary Council and the Cabinet.

New commander-in-chief

Maj. Abdel Hakim Amer, new Commander-in-Chief of the Egyptian Armed Forces, has been promoted Major-General.

This is the first and only promotion of an officer of the Revolutionary Council since the coup detat last July. Amer who is 33 is the youngest C.-in-C. ever in Egypt and the Middle East - and probably the world.

The Revolutionary Council declared in a proclamation later at night: In the name of the people we have ended the royal dynasty of Mohammed Aly and proclaim a republic from tonight. Gen. Naguib has assumed full presidential powers.

Maj. Salem said the provisional constitution proclaimed in February of this year would remain in force during the transitional period until a new constitution was drafted.

Five civilian Ministers have submitted their resignations from the former government.

They are: Suleiman Hafez, Vice Premier and Minister of the Interior; Murad Fahmy, Minister of Public Works; Dr Hussein Abu Zed, Minister of Communications; Mohammed Fuad Galal, Minister of National Guidance, and Dr Sabry Mansour, Minister of Supply.
As the national capital and its surrounding states continue to reel under severe heatwave conditions, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said in its forecast on Wednesday that monsoon is likely to hit Delhi-NCR around June 30. IMD added that dust storms and light-intensity rainfall activity are expected on Wednesday in Delhi. Residents of Delhi are likely to find relief from heatwave conditions after June 30(HT Photos/Vipin Kumar)

It is expected that monsoon will commence in Delhi with light rainfall and thunderstorms, likely bringing the temperature down in the national capital. In Delhi, monsoons typically last for the months of July and August.

Meanwhile, the MeT department has issued a red alert for West Uttar Pradesh for the next two days and a red alert for Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday due to severe heatwave conditions. A red alert was issued for Delhi as well till June 19 in view of the rising temperature.

IMD scientist Dr Naresh Kumar told ANI, We had issued a red alert for Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar yesterday, but today conditions have improved. There has been rainfall activity in Bihar.

The scientist told ANI, For Punjab, Haryana and Delhi-NCR, we have issued an orange alert but for West Uttar Pradesh we have issued a red alert for the next 2 days, there is a red alert for Uttar Pradesh as well today. In Delhi-NCR, the temperature is expected to be around 40 degrees Celcius. Monsoon is expected to hit Delhi-NCR around June 30. Even today, we can expect dust storms and light-intensity rainfall activity in Delhi.

Meanwhile, the weather agency predicted that heatwave will continue in parts of northern and northwestern India for the next two days. Heatwave conditions are expected in western Uttar Pradesh till June 19, and parts of Punjab till June 20.

As per the IMD, East India will witness a decrease in the temperature by 2-3 degrees Celsius during the next three days. The weather department further said, Hot & Humid weather is very likely over Odisha during 18th-20th; Gangetic West Bengal on the 18th and Bihar on the 20th June 2024.

(With inputs from ANI)
The Ratna Bhandar, the treasury of Jagannath temple in Puri containing jewelleries and other valuables of the holy trinity, would be opened for inspection either on July 8 or may be the day after it, officials of the Archaelogical Survey of India (ASI) said on Wednesday. The Jagannath temple in Puri. (File Photo)

Superintendent of ASIs Puri circle, Dibishad Gadnaik on Wednesday said the inspection will be done on either July 8 or the day after it in the presence of the members of the core committee and the technical committee. As this year Rath Yatra is scheduled for two days on July 7 and 8, the chamber may be opened a day after July 8. As members of the technical committee, ASI would see the structural condition of the chamber as the laser scanning done last year had revealed cracks in the outer wall and joints. Through these cracks, rainwater might be entering. The condition was not good, said Gadnaik.

The Ratna Bhandar, situated near sanctum sanctorum of the temple, is arguably the most precious property of the temple that contains several priceless jewelleries of the shrine including diamond, gold and silver. According to the rules and practices of the temple, all the gold and jewels offered to Lord Jagannath are to be stored in the two chambers of Ratna Bhandar  the inner chamber and outer chamber.

Though the outer chamber is opened for various rituals of deities and the jewelleries and valuables stored there are used during Suna Besha of Lord Jagannath, the inner chamber has not been opened since 1978 when it was last opened for inventory. As per the Jagannath Temple Act, there has to be an audit of all the valuables kept in the inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar every three years. However, there has been no proper audit of the inner chamber of Ratna Bhandar since 1978. According to Madala Panji, the official chronicle of the temple, King Anangabhima Dev had donated a little more than 250 kilograms of gold for preparing Lord Jagannaths gold ornaments. In an affidavit filed in high court in January this year, the temple administration said there was gold jewellery weighing about 149.47 kg and silver jewellery weighing 198.79 kg and utensils in the Ratna Bhandar.

In September last year, the Orissa high court had ordered the formation of a high power committee to supervise preparation of the inventory of the valuables including jewelleries in the Ratna Bhandar, following which the previous government in February this year had formed a 12-member committee headed by former SC judge Arijit Pasayat to oversee the preparation of the inventory of the jewellery and various valuables in the Ratna Bhandar. Other members of the committee are renowned cardiologist Dr. Ramakant Panda, former CMD of Allahabad Bank Bidhubhushan Samal, Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb and various sevayats of the temple.

The opening of Ratna Bhandar had become a major political issue in the just-concluded Assembly polls with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) making the disappearance of the key of the treasury a key poll point. Referring to the key of the Ratna Bhandar going missing in 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and other top BJP leaders during the campaign invoked Odia Asmita(Odia pride) managing to outsmart the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Meanwhile, member of the Jagannath temple managing committee and noted sand artist Sudarshan Patnaik said action should be taken for the six-year delay of the audit of Ratna Bhandar. I urge chief minister Mohan Majhi to take action and discuss the matter with ASI, the temple officials and take appropriate decision, he said.
Police in Srinagar have declared the city to be a temporary red zone during Prime Minister Modi's two day visit for the celebration of International Yoga Day, reported news agency ANI. J&K police declares Srinagar 'Temporary Red Zone ahead of PM Modi's Yoga Day event(PTI)

Under the Drone Rules, 2021, a red zone demarcates an area where permission needs to be taken for the use of drones and quadcopters.

Read more: Include yoga, millets to make health a people-led movement: PM Modi's letter to Gram Pradhans

This will be the PM's first visit to Jammu and Kashmir after the start of his third term in office.

Arrangements for the program have been put in place and preparations are underway, PTI quoted an official as saying.

The International Yoga Day event, led by PM Modi, will be held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre.

Read more: PM Modi to visit Srinagar on International Yoga Day on June 21

In preparation for the event, the prime minister's X account has been posting various asanas and spreading awareness about the benefits of doing yoga. Previously International Yoga Day events have been held by Modi in Delhi, Chandigarh, Jabalpur, Dehradun and even the United Nations.

Read more: UP govt plans Yoga Day celebrations on grand scale

AYUSH minister Prataprao Jadhav announced that the theme of this year's event was 'Yoga for Self and Society,' highlighting yoga's role in development of individual beings and society.

In a letter to gram panchayats on June 13, the prime minister reiterated the importance of Yoga, Nations across the world are gearing up to celebrate the 10th edition of International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2024. It is a celebration of the impact that Yoga has had on the global community, as well as the positive changes that it has ushered in our lives. The theme of International Day of Yoga this year, 'Yoga for Self and Society' will further strengthen our efforts to build a healthy nation.
New Delhi: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has written to the Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman opposing the relocation of statues of prominent leaders from designated spaces in the Parliament complex to the newly inaugurated Prerna Sthal and demanded that they should be restored to their original places. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge (File Photo)

The Prerna Sthal, inaugurated recently by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, now hosts sculptures of prominent leaders that were earlier placed at various locations within the complex.

The Congress chief said the decision to relocate these statues without any consultation amounts to a violation of the basic spirit of democracy. He shared copies of the letter on his social media handle on X.

The statues of many great leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, have been removed from their prominent places in the Parliament House Complex and relocated to a separate corner. I wish to emphasize at the very outset that such removal of these statues arbitrarily, without any consultation, violates the basic spirit of our democracy, Kharge wrote.

I demand that the statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, and other national leaders who greatly contributed to the unity and integrity of our nation must be relocated to their original locations with due respect and regard, the letter read.

Highlighting the importance of the designated spaces where the statues were placed, Kharge mentioned that The statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, and other national leaders were situated at prominent locations after due deliberation and consideration. Each statue and its location across the Parliament House complex held immense value and significance.

Also Read: Statues of freedom fighters and national icons moved to Prerna Sthal in Parliament complex

The statue of Mahatma Gandhi in a meditative posture, originally installed on October 2, 1993, in front of the old Parliament Building, held immense significance for Indias democratic polity. Over the decades, this space had assumed sacrosanct value. Members of Parliament (MPs), as well as visitors, paid their respects to Mahatma Gandhi, imbibing within themselves the spirit of the Mahatma, he wrote, also mentioning that the space has been used by members to raise their voices to draw the governments attention to important issues. ...It is at this place that members sought to voice concerns of the people in a democratic manner to draw the governments attention and seek due redressal.

Emphasizing the importance of the statue of Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution, which was also shifted to the Prerna Sthal, Kharge wrote, The statue of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, which was installed on April 2, 1967, in the Parliament House precincts, held great significance due to its vantage point and posture. Babasaheb sought to convey to generations of parliamentarians the importance of steadfastly upholding the values and principles enshrined in the Constitution of India.

He shared memories of his youth in the letter, stating, In the mid-1960s, I was at the forefront of demanding the installation of the statue in the precincts of the Parliament House. Such concerted efforts eventually resulted in the installation of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkars statue at its original place.

Kharge expressed his concern over the governments decision to relocate the statues and said that it was made without consulting the Committee on the Installation of Portraits and Statues of National Leaders and Parliamentarians. There is a dedicated committee for installing portraits and statues of national leaders and MPs in the Parliament House Complex, comprising MPs from both Houses of Parliament. However, the committee has lamentably not been reconstituted since 2019.

The Prerna Sthal was inaugurated by the Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, on Monday (June 17). It is a new dedicated area built to host the statues of all the freedom fighters and other prominent icons of the country. It includes the iconic statue of Mahatma Gandhi, which was earlier located outside the old Parliament building and has been a site for MPs to protest against the government.

Opposition leaders slammed the decision to shift the statues in an arbitrary and unilateral manner that went against the rules and traditions of our Parliament.
Former Haryana Congress leader Kiran Choudhary and her daughter Shruti Choudhry, along with their supporters, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in the presence of senior party leaders in New Delhi on Wednesday. Former Haryana Congress leader Kiran Choudhary after joining BJP in New Delhi on Wednesday.(ANI)

Both Kiran Choudhry and Shruti Choudhry had resigned from the primary membership of the Congress on Tuesday, alleging that the state unit of the party was being run as a personal fiefdom, in an apparent reference to former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda .

I was a very dedicated worker of the Congress. I dedicated my life to the Congress with hard work. But for a few years, I watched the Haryana Congress become an individual-centric party. They didn't want Congress to go ahead and follow such policies. So, you can understand that the Congress would never have progressed in Haryana. Big leaders quit the party due to them...I took this step to ensure that my workers get their due rights, equal rights, After Kiran Choudhry said at a press conference after joining the Congress.

Kiran Choudhry is daughter-in-law of former Haryana chief minister Bansi Lal and a sitting MLA from Tosham in Bhiwani district. Shruti Choudhry was the working president of the Haryana unit of the Congress.

They joined the BJP in the presence of Union minister Manohar Lal Khattar, party national general secretary Tarun Chugh, Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini and other senior leaders at the party headquarters.

Today, I took this decision because the Prime Minister, who has pledged a developed India by 2047. I have full faith that India will shine in the world. The public welfare work done by the Prime Minister has led to the formation of a BJP government in Delhi for the third time. I have worked a lot with Khattar ji. There used to be a lot of bitterness between us. But the way he worked has been my source of inspiration, Kiran Choudhry said.

Shruti Choudhry said she was inspired by the Prime Minister, who has taken historic decisions for the welfare of the country and made India's name shine across the world. "It is a matter of pride for us that Modi ji and Khattar ji have worked with Chaudhary Bansi Lal ji. The way Bansi Lal worked hard, we are joining the BJP with the same hard work," Shruti Choudhry said.
Union minister Piyush Goyal has ruled out any change in its leadership in Maharashtra after the Bharatiya Janata Party's forgettable performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and asserted that the party was working on a blueprint for the Shiv Sena-BJP-NCP coalition to emerge victorious in the assembly polls, due later this year. Maharashtra BJP's core group meeting with party president JP Nadda and Union home minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Tuesday.(BJP)

"There will be no change in leadership in Maharashtra," Piyush Goyal told reporters after the Maharashtra BJP's core group meeting with party president JP Nadda and Union home minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Tuesday.

There was speculation that Rao Saheb Patil would be made the state president. Speculation was also rife in the state over the continuance of the Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in the ruling alliance.

Piyush Goyal said the BJP leaders discussed the strategy to ensure the re-election of the MahaYuti alliance in the upcoming assembly election.

The meeting was attended by senior BJP leaders BL Santosh, Bhupender Yadav, Ashwini Vaishnaw, state BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Sudhir Mungantiwar, Chandrakant Patil, Pankaja Munde, Raosaheb Danve and Vinod Tawde, among others, news agency PTI reported.

In the Lok Sabha elections 2024, the BJP won just nine seats in Maharashtra, down from its 2019 tally of 23. The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance had won 41 out of the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra in the 2019 elections. This cumulative number of the present-day National Democratic Alliance (NDA) came down to 17 seats  seven for the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and one member of the NCP.

Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had offered to resign from the MahaYuti government of Shiv Sena-BJP-NCP and focus on the organisation to win the September-October assembly polls.

"We have prepared a blueprint for the upcoming assembly elections and how to win it along with the MahaYuti alliance partners," Devendra Fadnavis said after the meeting.

He also said the meeting at the BJP headquarters also discussed the party's performance in the Lok Sabha elections.

Fadnavis said the difference between the vote share of the ruling MahaYuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) was just 0.3 per cent, and the leaders discussed in detail the shortcomings and strengths of the BJP in the just-concluded Lok Sabha elections.

(With inputs from PTI)
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport has apprehended a 24-year-old man allegedly impersonating a 60-year-plus passenger for a flight bound for Canada, PTI reported on Wednesday. The man was first checked by CISF personnel as his activities were found to be suspicious. (X/CISF)

Guru Sewak Singh, a passenger with dyed hair and a beard, was intercepted on Tuesday evening at Terminal 3 of the airport. He has been handed over to the Delhi Police.

The man was first checked by CISF personnel as his activities were found to be suspicious.

Also Read | UP man arrested for posing as Singapore Airlines pilot at Delhi airport

An unidentified officer told PTI that the man initially produced his identity in the form of a passport bearing the name 67-year-old Rashvindar Singh Sahota. He was supposed to board an Air Canada plane flying out of Delhi on Tuesday.

The man's appearance, voice and skin texture seemed significantly younger than the details provided in the passport, the official said, according to PTI. Closer observation revealed that he had dyed his hair and beard white, and was wearing glasses to appear older.

Following an interrogation, the man disclosed his correct identity as 24-year-old Guru Sewak Singh. The photo of a passport in this name was found also in his mobile phone, the officer said.

As the case was of forged passport and impersonation, the passenger along with his belongings was handed over to the Delhi Police for legal action in the matter.

In April, a 24-year-old man from Uttar Pradesh's Gautam Buddha Nagar was arrested for posing as a Singapore Airlines pilot at the IGI airport.

The accused, Sangeet Singh, was spotted strolling near the airport's Metro Skywalk area. He was wearing a pilot's uniform and sporting a Singapore Airlines ID card around his neck. Upon inspection, however, the ID was found to be fake.

Further investigation revealed that Singh was able to trick his family into believing that he had landed a job as a commercial pilot for Singapore.

He was been booked under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 420 (cheating and dishonesty), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 471 (using a forged document as a genuine one).

Also Read | CISF nabs man at Delhi airport for trying to smuggle red sandalwood to Vietnam
A Delhi court on Wednesday extended chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody until July 3 in a money laundering case linked to the alleged excise scam. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal at the AAP office ahead of his surrender at the Tihar jail in New Delhi on June 2.(PTI)

Kejriwal is lodged in Tihar's jail number 2 in the excise policy-linked money laundering case. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested him on March 21.

Also Read | Enforcement Directorate to make AAP accused in Delhi excise policy case

The Supreme Court granted Kejriwal interim bail for 21 days on May 10 for campaigning in the Lok Sabha elections. He surrendered at the Tihar jail on June 2.

During Wednesday's hearing, the court sought to know why the extension of judicial custody is required.

The counsel for ED submitted that Vinod Chauhan received 25 crore from K Kavitha's personal assistant through Abhishek Boinpally for the Goa election, reported ANI.

During the hearing, the investigation officer informed the court that 25 crore was part of the 100 crore money trail. He also added that so far, 45 crore has been traced. Till now 45 crore money trail has been traced.

Also Read | Delhi HC asks Sunita Kejriwal to take down Arvind Kejriwal's court video from social media

The IO also said that Vinod Chauhan is being investigated and that a prosecution complaint will be filed against him by the end of this month.

During the hearing, additional solicitor general SV Raju said that everything linked to the case has ultimately boiled down to Kejriwal's role. He further clarified that the CBI, not the ED, brought the allegations that Kejriwal demanded a 100 crore bribe.

Vivek Jain, the counsel appearing for Kejriwal, however, opposed the ED's application seeking an extension of his judicial custody, saying there were no grounds justifying the extension of his custody and asserted that the application is bereft of merits.

We are objecting to the judicial remand. The arrest has already been challenged. It's sub judice before the Supreme Court, the counsel said.

(Inputs from ANI)
Human finger found in ice cream in Mumbai: In what could be seen as a breakthrough in the Mumbai ice cream case, police have found that a staffer at the Pune factory of Yummo ice cream had suffered a finger injury in an accident, NDTV reported. A 26-year-old doctor from Malad West alleged that he found a severed human finger in his ice cream

The investigation into the incident, in which day a 26-year-old doctor from Malad West alleged that he found a human finger in an ice cream cone recently, has found that the ice cream was packed on the day the accident took place, NDTV reported, citing police sources.

The police have also sent samples for DNA tests, and a confirmation of whether the finger belongs to the staffer will be ascertained only after the report comes in.

Brendon Ferrao (26), a Mumbai-based doctor, said he was appalled to find a piece of flesh, apparently a severed human thumb, in the frozen dessert that he ordered online. The incident occurred on June 12 afternoon, following which the man lodged a complaint with the police, the police said.

Brendon Ferrao, in his complaint, said he ordered a butterscotch ice cream cone from Yummo company through an e-commerce app. While consuming the ice cream after lunch, he found a piece of flesh with a nail in it, a police official said.

Also Read | Human finger in ice cream: FSSAI, FDA inspect manufacturing units

The man, who is pursuing his post-graduate studies, then took up the matter with the ice cream company by complaining about it on its Instagram page. But since there was no proper response from the firm, the complainant put the piece of flesh in an ice bag and approached went to the Malad police station, where he lodged a complaint, the official said.

Based on his complaint, the police registered a case under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 272 (adulteration of food or drink intended for sale), 273 (sale of noxious food and drink) and 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others), against Yummo ice cream company officials, he said.

"The piece of flesh, suspected to be a piece of human finger, has been sent for forensic examination to ascertain whether it is a part of the human body," the official said.

The FSSAI Western Region office has suspended the licence of an ice cream manufacturer in Pune.

"The premises of the ice cream manufacturer have been inspected by a team of FSSAI's Western Region Office and its licence has been suspended," said FSSAI in a reply to news agency ANI.

FSSAI further said that the ice cream manufacturer who delivered the ice cream is based in Indapur, Pune, and has a central licence as well.
Kohima: As Nagaland gears up to hold its first civic polls after two decades, the people from six eastern districts have planned to abstain from participating in the polling. On June 26, 24 ULBs across the state will go to polls to constitute the long overdue civic bodies (Representative Photo)

The six districts  Mon, Tuensang, Longleng, Kiphire, Noklak and Shamator  under the aegis of Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation (ENPO) have a standing resolution since February this year to refrain from participating in any central or state election over the autonomous Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) issue.

These six districts had also abstained from participating in the recently held parliamentary elections.

The resolution taken in February this year was to abstain from participating in any central or state elections to protest against the failure to settle the Union governments offer for the creation of autonomous Frontier Nagaland Territory through the Union ministry of home affairs.

Despite the ENPOs call for poll abstention, 61 intending candidates, including 23 women, had filed nominations in Mon, Kiphire, Longleng and Shamator districts. However, as scrutiny and withdrawal of names came to a close on Tuesday, officials said 59 candidates have withdrawn their papers while two were rejected during scrutiny.

Also Read: Nagaland govt appeals to ENPO to participate in upcoming local body polls

People familiar with the matter told HT that the candidates had to withdraw their papers under duress and pressure from their respective tribal bodies, who are the affiliate units of ENPO.

The ENPO, representing the tribes of Konyak, Chang, Phom, Yimkhiung, Khiamniungan, Sangtam, Tikhir and eastern Sumi, has over 400,000 voters and 20 assembly seats. Under the states ULB, the six districts have 14 town councils.

According to the updates received from the establishment of the State Election Commissioner (SEC), T John Longkumer, on Wednesday, a total of 79 intending candidates for the states three municipal councils  Kohima, Dimapur and Mokokchung  and 36 town councils have pulled out of the race from the initial 669 (including 238 women) who filed nomination. A total of 64 candidates have been declared elected unopposed in 21 ULBs, and 523 are in the fray for the June 26 polls.

On June 26, 24 ULBs across the state will go to polls to constitute the long overdue civic bodies. Elections to these were last held in 2004. The state then went through multiple litigations for not being able to conduct the civic polls over issues surrounding quotas for women and property taxation.

Last year, the Nagaland assembly repealed its contentious 2001 Municipal Act and put in place a new law which received the state governors assent in March this year. Subsequently, the SEC notified the polls.

It may be mentioned here that the states advocate general had earlier in April assured the Supreme Court during a PIL hearing filed by the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties that the ULB elections in Nagaland would be completed with a 33% quota for women by June.
Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, house foreign affairs committee chairman Michael McCaul, and other members of the congressional delegation arrived at the Dalai Lama's residence on Wednesday to meet with the Tibetan spiritual leader. The delegation visited the Dalai Lama's residence in Himachal Pradesh's McLeod Ganj, with the head of the delegation, Michael McCaul, saying President Joe Biden would soon sign a bill that aims to press China to resolve the Tibet dispute. The Bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by Representative Michael McCaul met the 14th Dalai Lama in Mcleodganj, Dharamshala. (HT Photo)

The Resolve Tibet Act calls on Beijing to resume talks with Tibetan leaders, which have been halted since 2010, to resolve their governance disagreement with China peacefully. The bill aims for the two countries to reach a negotiated settlement regarding Tibet. It also urges China to address the desires of the Tibetan people concerning their historical, cultural, religious, and language identity.

Ahead of the meeting of the American delegation with the Dalai Lama, deputy Speaker of Tibetan Parliament-in-exile, Dolma Tsering Teykhang said the visit of the US lawmakers show "Tibet is not alone."

On Tuesday, a group of US representatives, including Nancy Pelosi, arrived at Kangra airport in Dharamshala. It also includes Rep Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Speaker Emerita, Rep Gregory Meeks, Rep Nicole Malliotakis, Rep Jim McGovern, and Rep Ami Bera.

Officials from the Central Tibetan Administration welcomed the American delegation upon their arrival.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, McCaul said, We are very excited to see His Holiness tomorrow to talk about many things, including the Bill we passed out of Congress, which basically says that the United States stands with the people of Tibet.

On being asked if Biden would sign the bill, she added, Yes, he will.

The US House of Representatives passed the Resolve Tibet Act, which is now awaiting Biden's signature to become law. This bill challenges Beijing's claim that Tibet has always been part of China and calls on China to stop spreading false information about Tibet's history, people, and institutions, including the Dalai Lama. Additionally, it urges China to initiate discussions with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders regarding Tibet's governance.

US politicians have frequently visited Dharamsala to support the Dalai Lama's efforts to gain international support for preserving the language and culture of Tibet, his homeland nestled in the mountains.

The Dalai Lama escaped to India in 1959 following an unsuccessful rebellion against Chinese control in Tibet. Chinese authorities oppose any meetings he holds with officials from other nations.

China's response

Beijing, which views the Nobel peace laureate the Dalai Lama as a dangerous "splittist" or separatist, on Tuesday expressed strong concern about the visit and the bill anticipated to be signed by Biden.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said, We ... urge the US to fully recognise the anti-China and separatist nature of the Dalai clique, abide by its commitments on Tibet-related issues, refrain from any form of contact with it, and stop sending erroneous messages. We urge the US side to honour its commitment of recognising Tibet as part of China and not supporting Tibetan independence, and not to sign the above-mentioned bill.

Beijing stated that it would take strong actions to protect its sovereignty, security, and development interests.
Narendra Modi in Bihar highlights: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar, on Wednesday. The new campus is near the ancient ruins of Nalanda University, which was established through the Nalanda University Act, 2010. This Act followed a decision made at the second East Asia Summit in the Philippines in 2007....Read More

Ancient history of Nalanda University

Nalanda University, originally established in the fifth century, was a renowned institution attracting students worldwide. It thrived for 800 years until it was destroyed in the 12th century.

What are programmes offered in modern Nalanda University?

The modern university began operations in 2014 from a temporary location with 14 students. Construction of the new campus started in 2017.

The university now hosts six schools: the School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions; the School of Historical Studies; the School of Ecology and Environmental Studies; and the School of Sustainable Development and Management.

Nalanda University is a hub of international students

Nalanda University has support from 17 other countries, including Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Indonesia, and Thailand, which have signed MoUs. The university offers 137 scholarships to international students.

International students enrolled in the postgraduate programs for 2022-24 and 2023-25, and the PhD program for 2023-27, include students from Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Ghana, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, the USA, and Zimbabwe.
The Opposition INDIA bloc is set to focus on recent controversies surrounding the conduct of National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET-UG 2024 and alleged stock market manipulation following exit polls and highlight key issues of price rise and unemployment during the upcoming inaugural session of the 18th Lok Sabha. NEET, manipulation of stock market on Oppositions Parliament agenda

The session, which will be a brief one, is tightly packed with mandatory agendas such as the oath-taking of newly elected Lok Sabha members and the address by President Droupadi Murmu to the joint sitting of both Houses, with a limited space for the Opposition to raise its agenda. The session will start on June 24 for the Lok Sabha and June 27 for the Rajya Sabha and end for both on July 3.

Our top priority would be a debate on NEET. We consider NEET-UG exam was a scam. Our party president Mallikarjun Kharge has raised serious questions over its conduct this year. There are serious questions on the integrity of the NTA (National Testing Agency), too, and the manner in which NEET is designed and administered, a senior Congress leader said.

Ever since the NEET-UG results were announced on June 4, protests have swept across India as thousands of students hit the streets against this years process amid allegations of question paper leaks, inflated marking and arbitrary allowance of grace marks.

Attacking the Centre over NEET row, former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday said: Narendra Modi, as usual, is maintaining silence on the tampering with the future of more than 24 lakh (2.4 million) students in the NEET examination. The arrests made in Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana clearly show there has been organised corruption in the examination in a planned manner and these BJP-ruled states have become the epicentre of paper leak.

Gandhi, who is all set to become the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, added: While fulfilling the responsibility of the opposition, we are committed to formulate such tough policies by strongly raising the voice of the youth from the streets to Parliament and putting pressure on the government.

The INDIA bloc, which has 234 members in the 18th Lok Sabha, is also expected to raise its concern over the alleged stock market manipulation. On Tuesday, a delegation of leaders from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Shiv Sena (UBT) and Nationalist Congress Party (SP) met officials of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and demanded a probe into the alleged stock market manipulation following exit polls earlier this month.

Earlier, Rahul Gandhi had demanded a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe into what he described as the biggest stock market scam, alleging involvement of both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah in it.

The Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the exit pollsters working for them and their friendly media have together conspired to commit the biggest stock market scam in India. 30 lakh crore of 5 crore (50 million) small investor families have been lost. We demand that a JPC be formed to investigate this criminal act, Gandhi had posted on X on June 6.

While a section of the Opposition may seek a separate and full debate, it might have no option but to use the debate on the Presidents address to raise these issues.

In the session, it will be the continuation of the issues that we raised during the election season. In the debate on the Presidents speech in both Houses, issues such as price rise and unemployment will be highlighted. We will demand answer from the PM, a senior Congress strategist said.

In the Lok Sabha, the first three days of the upcoming session will see oath-taking of newly elected lawmakers and the election of the Speaker. Murmu will address both Houses on June 27 and the remaining part of the session is likely to be used to debate and pass a motion of thanks to the President for her speech.
Amid the public outrage over NEET examination this year, the Union Education Ministry on Wednesday sought a report from the Bihar Police's Economic Offenses Unit over the alleged paper leak this year. Students stage a protest against the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination results and demand re-examination (File Photo)

Bihar Police has been asked to submit a detailed report regarding alleged irregularities in the conduct of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (UG) 2024 in Patna, officials told PTI on Wednesday.

This comes days after the Bihar Police recovered post-dated cheques suspected to have been issued in favour of a mafia which had demanded over 30 lakh from each candidate seeking the alleged leaked question paper ahead of the NEET examination.

There have been allegations of question paper leaks in Bihar and other irregularities in the prestigious exam. The allegations have led to protests in several cities and the filing of petitions in several high courts as well as the Supreme Court.

A senior official from the education ministry said, Regarding certain irregularities alleged in the conduct of the examination in Patna, a detailed report has been sought from the Economic Offences Unit, Bihar Police. The government will take further action on receipt of this report.

The government is committed to ensuring the sanctity of examinations and protect the interest of students. It is reiterated that any individual or organisation found involved in this matter will face the strictest action, he added.

A massive outrage was sparked after the National Testing Agency (NTA) awarded grace marks to hundreds of students in the NEET-UG 2024 exam in several selected centres. Around 67 students reportedly topped the exam, as opposed to just two toppers last year.

After attacks by the opposition and a public outcry, the Centre and the NTA on June 13 told the Supreme Court that they had cancelled the grace marks given to 1,563 candidates, who took the examination for admission to MBBS and other such courses.

The candidates will have the option to either take a retest or forgo the compensatory marks awarded to them for the loss of time, the Centre had said.

NEET-UG 2024 examination was conducted across the country on May 5 across 4,750 centres. The results were announced 10 days before the designated date because the evaluation of the papers was complete.

(With inputs from PTI)
Congress general secretary KC Venugopal on Wednesday asked all party units to hold protest against the alleged irregularities in NEET-UG 2024 results on June 21. Students stage a protest against the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination results and demand re-examination (File Photo)

The Lok Sabha MP-elect from Keralas Alappuzha constituency has alleged that there has been organised corruption in BJP-ruled states, which is evident from arrests made in Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana.



The examination has been plagued by technical glitches, malpractice, and unfair means in certain test centres. Organised corruption is evident from arrests made in Bihar, Gujarat, and Haryana, revealing a pattern of malpractice in BJP-ruled states, Venugopal has written in his letter.

Venugopal has remarked that the Supreme Court has also highlighted the seriousness of these allegations, demanding zero tolerance for negligence.



Such irregularities undermine the credibility of the examination process and jeopardise the future of countless dedicated students. The Congress party had promised to secure the future of the youth by enforcing strict laws against paper leaks in our manifesto," said Venugopal.



Against this massive corruption and irregularities in the NEET Examination and the desperate inaction and silence of the NDA government, all Pradesh Congress Committees are requested to hold massive protests at state headquarters on June 21, 2024, he added.



Venugopal has also asked the state units to protest along with senior leaders, demanding justice for the students and send him a detailed report on the protest activities.



This comes after the results caused an uproar, with aspirants and parents demanding a probe and re-examination, alleging that the paper was leaked at certain centres.

The NEET-UG, earlier called the All-India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT), is the only entrance exam held each year for students seeking admission to undergraduate medical courses in all medical institutions throughout the country.



This year, on May 5, over 24 lakh students appeared for NEET exam at 4,750 centres across 571 cities, including 14 international locations.

The result was declared on June 4, which immediately caused a hue and cry with aspirants raising multiple issues, such as the awarding of grace marks to over 1,500 students, an unusually high number of students achieving perfect scores, and allegations of a leaked question paper.
The Allahabad high court has dismissed the NEET re-examination plea of student Ayushi Patel, who claimed that her OMR sheet had been torn, after National Testing Authority (NTA) presented evidence that she had forged the document and the original OMR sheet was intact, news agency PTI reported. NEET-UG 2024: HC dismisses student's torn OMR sheet' plea, original document presented by NTA (ANI)

The Allahabad high court also stated that the NTA was now free to take legal action against her for the false claims.

Read more: 'If there is 0.001% negligence...': Supreme Court issues notice to NTA, Centre over NEET

Ayushi Patel had claimed that the NTA had sent her a message that her result would not be declared due to her OMR sheet being torn. She then took to social media, where she made these claims and ended up going viral, with political leaders such as Congress's Priyanka Gandhi Vadra sharing her case.

Read more: NEET-UG 2024 exam row: Rahul Gandhi targets PM Modi after Supreme Court pulls up NTA

Her video also became part of the larger issue surrounding discrepancies in the conduct of the undergraduate medical entrance exam NEET. Patel demanded that the NTA manually re-evaluate her OMR sheet. She also asked that the NTA be investigated and that the counselling for admission be stopped.

According to Patel, the NTA gave her a lesser result based on another student's application number due to her torn OMR sheet. However, when the NTA deputy director Sandeep Sharma presented her sheet in front of the court, it was clear that there were no irregularities with the paper or its marking.

Read more: NEET row: Deal strictly with any negligence on your part, SC tells NTA, Centre, court issues notice on cancellation plea

India Today reported that the NTA expressed in the court its intention to pursue legal action against the student. The student's advocate requested to withdraw the petition, and the court accepted.
New Delhi: The Congress party on Wednesday announced a nationwide agitation over the ongoing National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) controversy and directed its state units to hold protests at their headquarters on Friday, demanding justice for the students. For weeks, protests have swept across India as thousands of students hit the streets against this years process amid allegations of NEET-UG question paper leaks (Representative Photo)

In a letter addressed to Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) presidents, in-charges and heads of all frontal organisations, and All India Congress Committee (AICC) secretaries, Congress general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal on Wednesday said that there is an urgent need to address the numerous complaints and concerns surrounding the NEET-UG 2024 conduct and results.

As you are aware, the National Testing Agency (NTA) released the results of NEET-UG 2024 on 4th June 2024. The results have been marred by allegations of irregularities and paper leaks following the inflated marks of some aspirants, the letter from Venugopal read.

He said that there are significant concerns over inflated marks and irregularities, and awarding grace marks without disclosing the methodology further raises doubts. The examination has been plagued by technical glitches, malpractice, and unfair means in certain test centres. Organized corruption is evident from arrests made in Bihar, Gujarat, and Haryana, revealing a pattern of malpractice in BJP-ruled states, the letter read.

The Honble Supreme Court has also highlighted the seriousness of these allegations, demanding zero tolerance for negligence. Such irregularities undermine the credibility of the examination process and jeopardise the future of countless dedicated students. The Congress party had promised to secure the future of the youth by enforcing strict laws against paper leaks in our manifesto, it added.

Against this massive corruption and irregularities in the NEET Examination and the desperate inaction and silence of the NDA Government, all Pradesh Congress Committees are requested to hold massive protests at state headquarters on Friday, 21 June 2024, demanding justice for the students. This demonstration should involve senior leaders and party functionaries, Venugopal said and sought a detailed report on the protests from the partys state units.

For weeks, protests have swept across India as thousands of students hit the streets against this years process amid allegations of NEET-UG question paper leaks, inflated marking and arbitrary allowance of grace marks, even as opposition parties called for a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the allegations.

The Supreme Court on Monday told the Centre and NTA not to shy away from admitting any mistake in conducting the NEET-UG this year and cautioned that even 0.01% negligence should be thoroughly dealt with, underlining the chaos engulfing Indias premier medical entrance examination that threatens to jeopardise the futures of hundreds of thousands of children.

The government has repeatedly said it will not tolerate malpractice and irregularities but also ruled out scrapping the entire examination over what it calls problems in a handful of centres.

Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday said that the initial information was that some students were given grace marks due to less time. ...Secondly, some irregularities have come to light at two places. I assure the students and parents that the government has taken this seriously. We have received the information and we will take all the issues to a decisive stage.

Even if senior officials of the NTA are found guilty, they will not be spared. A lot of improvement is required in NTA. The government is concerned about this, no culprit will be spared, he had said.
New Delhi, Australian deputy envoy Nicholas McCaffrey was conveyed a "no objection" to meet officials in the West Bengal government at an "appropriate" level, official sources said on Wednesday after the Trinamool Congress accused the Centre of rejecting his request to meet three ministers in the Mamata Banerjee dispensation. No objection conveyed to Australian Dy high commissioner to meet Bengal govt officials at appropriate level: Govt sources

"A no objection was conveyed to the Australian deputy high commissioner based on the principle of reciprocity for meeting officials of the West Bengal government at an appropriate level," a source said.

The clarification came after Trinamool Congress MPs Saket Gokhale and Sagarika Ghose accused the NDA government of not allowing the Australian deputy envoy to meet the ministers in the West Bengal government.

Gokhale and Ghose also alleged that the Centre is creating hindrance in West Bengal getting foreign investment.

McCaffrey sought the meetings ahead of his planned visit to West Bengal.

People aware of diplomatic protocols and norms said a deputy high commissioner or a deputy chief of a foreign mission is junior to ministers in state governments and that is why the meetings sought by the diplomat were not in sync with laid down norms.

Similar yardsticks are followed for Indian diplomats in Australia as well, they explained.

When asked about the issue, a spokesperson for the Australian High Commission did not comment on it but said Australia and India are close friends with strong strategic, economic and community ties.

"Australian diplomats travel regularly across India to continue strengthening the political, business, cultural and sporting linkages between our two countries," the official said.

"We don't comment on the specific details of programs when our officials travel."

At a press conference, Gokhale said the Oceania division of the Ministry of External Affairs recommended against McCaffrey meeting West Bengal Industry and Commerce Minister Shashi Panja, IT Minister Babul Supriyo, and Agriculture Minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay.

"The government of West Bengal received communication from the Australian High Commission that the deputy high commissioner would be visiting West Bengal and he had sought meetings with three ministers in the government of West Bengal," Gokhale said.

Following this, a communication came from the Oceania division of the Ministry of External Affairs that it does not recommend that the Australian deputy high commissioner meet up with the ministers, he said.

TMC Rajya Sabha member Ghose also targeted the Centre on the matter and said the manner in which the meetings were denied puts a question mark on the federal structure of the country.

"It is extremely shocking and autocratic to send out a recommendation through the Ministry of External Affairs," she said.

"This is an assault on the federal structure," Ghose alleged.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
This years arduous summer, which has led to oppressive conditions for millions of people across the country, has sparked what is perhaps the most prolonged spell of heat ever recorded in at least 50% of northwest India  Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan  data shows. A man covers his face using a cloth to shield himself from the sun as he inspects railway tracks during a hot summer day in New Delhi. (REUTERS)

This heat spell across Indias north, east and northwest is also particularly agonising due to the unusually extreme night-time temperatures, which India Meteorological Department (IMD) scientists call warm nights, being experienced across the swathe of areas in the grip of the heat streak.

Scientists and doctors said that combination of high day-time and night-time temperatures has led to conditions that put immense heat stress on the body, especially for those who are without access to air conditioners or coolers. It is further aggravated by the lack of availability of cool water.

In many areas in Delhi, for example, people are getting unusually warm tap water through day and night.

Data analysed by HT shows that more than half of northwestern India has experienced a maximum temperature of 40 degrees Celsius (C) or higher on almost all days in the past 33 days (the period between May 16 and June 17). This makes it the longest 40+ spell since 1951 in most parts of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Nearly half of Gujarat (around 44% of the state) and more than a third of Uttar Pradesh (34% of the states area) are also experiencing its worst heat spell since 1951, the earliest year for which data is available.

This also shows how wide a swathe is in the grips of this excruciatingly long heat spell.

In nearly a quarter of the countrys area (24%), this year is at least in the top five longest heat spells ever recorded. It is among the top 10 in 32% of the area, and among the top 20 in 40% of the countrys area. To be sure, this is the case when 37% of the countrys area has either never reached a 40C reading in the May 16-June 17 period, or did not this year. If we exclude this area, then 40C+ temperatures have been experienced on the maximum number of days this year in over 25% of India.

While the extreme day temperature is part of the problem, it does not fully capture why this years heat has felt agonising. For that, weather scientists, point to the high temperature that is also prevalent in the night  the only time people expect any relief.

The day temperatures are way too high. So naturally the nights are not able to cool down as much. If the maximum temperatures are in the range of 45-46C, you cannot expect night time temperatures to be normal either, said M Mohapatra, IMD director general.

A warm night is declared only when the maximum temperature remains 40C or more, and is defined based on departures of actual minimum temperatures. A warm night is when minimum temperature departure is 4.5C to 6.4C above normal.

More warm nights are being experienced this time At night there is an outgoing longwave radiation or the heat is radiated back. But the temperatures are so high and hot westerly winds are blowing at night, so that is not happening as expected, said Mahesh Palawat, vice-president, climate and meteorology at Skymet Weather.

The monsoon, which has barely progressed beyond central India since June 11, has only added to the woes. We are expecting monsoon to pick up in a few days which may help in modulating temperatures, Palawat added.

The average June rainfall for the country as a whole is most likely to be below normal (< 92% of the Long Period Average (LPA), IMD said on Tuesday. LPA of the June rainfall over the country as a whole for the period 1971-2020 is 16.69cm. Normal to above normal monthly rainfall is most likely over most areas of the south peninsular India and some areas of Northeast India. Below normal rainfall is most likely over many areas of Northwest & adjoining Central India and some areas of Northeast India.

Monsoon may pick up in the east in the next 3-4 days and reach here by month end as per its normal date, added Mohapatra.

Doctors, meanwhile, say they are experiencing a massive spike in heat-related illnesses and emergencies.

We are seeing a significant rise in heat related admissions. These had reduced marginally last month when temperatures had dipped but they are up again. We are mainly seeing two kinds of people coming to us  young people with heat exertion related conditions who were working outside in the heat, and for old people who are more susceptible to heat. They come with severe dehydration, high grade fever, diarrhoea, in some severe cases they also present with muscle injury or what we call rhabdomyolysis. This can cause muscle disintegration, kidney failure and death. The other kind of patients coming to us are the elderly who have poor body temperature regulation. They are coming with very high-grade fever like 106F. Their heart rhythm can go out of control if they are not stabilised and they show up with electrolyte imbalance. Of course, most of these are people with no cooling like air conditioners or they live in very hot spaces like the top floor of buildings, said Dr Sumit Ray, critical care specialist and medical director, Holy Family Hospital.

An analysis of maximum temperatures show that most parts of the northern plains had hot weather conditions many places in Rajasthan, Haryana, northern Madhya Pradesh and southern Uttar Pradesh did not have even a single day where the maximum temperature dropped below 40C.

Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh witnessed six heatwave days between May 18 and May 31, and 14 such days this month till June 17. It also recorded highest ever temperature of 48.8C on May 28. While western Uttar Pradesh has recorded 26 heat wave days since March 2024, eastern UP has recorded 22. Delhi and Haryana have also recorded 23 heat wave days, most of them in the last one month, according to IMDs daily heatwave data.

Bathinda in Punjab and Rohtak in Haryana have been, on average, the hottest places in the two states, which, according to the HT analysis, had 75% of the area recording more than 40C for 28-33 days. In Barmer, Rajasthan, 90% of the area did not have a single day below 40C, and the maximum temperature ranged between 45-50C in the past month.

Even the Himalayas have not been spared by the extreme heat this year. On Monday, Kathua in Jammu recorded 47.6C, the highest temperature for a location in Jammu & Kashmir. The Jammu region has witnessed temperatures above 40C since May 18 nearly every day. The hill stations of Shimla and Dharamshala in Himachal and Mussoorie and Nainital in Uttarakhand are witnessing above 30C since May 23, with some places such as Una in Himachal and Roorkee in Uttarakhand recording temperatures close to 45C.

IMD has predicted that heatwave conditions would continue till at least June 20.

There is a red category warning for Uttar Pradesh till June 20 for extreme heat. A red category warning means that local authorities need to act to prevent heat-related emergencies.

Much of this was expected and predicted in advance. In a year following an El Nino year, we tend to get more heatwaves. That is due to favourable atmospheric circulation for heatwaves. Global warming is adding to this natural variability. We will tend to get more frequent, longer and stronger heat waves. We need to be well prepared, said M Rajeevan, climate scientist and former secretary, ministry of earth sciences, last week.
Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modis arrival in Srinagar on June 20, the counter-terrorism grid has launched a crackdown against terror-related activities in Jammu and Kashmir. Sopore: Security forces personnel during an encounter with militants, in Sopore, Baramulla, Wednesday, June 19, 2024. (PTI Photo) (PTI06_19_2024_000278A)(PTI)

A joint team of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday killed two terrorists in North Kashmirs Baramulla on Wednesday afternoon. The operation began after security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Hadipora area of Sopore, after which terrorists opened fire, triggering a gunfight.

Prime Minister Modi will land in Srinagar on June 20 around 6 PM and participate in the 'Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K' event at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.



Read: J&K police declares Srinagar temporary red zone ahead of PM Modi's Yoga Day event

He will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects in J&K. On June 21 at 6:30 AM, PM Modi will participate in the 10th International Day of Yoga event at SKICC in Srinagar. Around 4,000 people are expected to attend the Yoga Day event on the banks of Dal Lake.



The Jammu and Kashmir Police have made the first arrest in the Reasi terror attack that took place on June 9. Nine people were killed and 33 others were injured after a bus carrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district came under a terrorist attack in Teryath village.

Police have arrested Hakim Din, a resident of Rajouri, who is suspected of providing logistics to the terrorists for the attack.

In another incident, police in Doda district arrested Mohammad Rafi, who had fled on Tuesday along with an AK-47 rifle belonging to a special police officer (SPO).

Police said that SPO Safdar Hussain had taken a lift from Mohammad Rafi in his vehicle. Hussain had got down from his car near a flyover in Doda to buy a water bottle, leaving his AK-47 rifle inside Rafis car.

Rafi subsequently fled the spot with the weapon, and the vehicle was later discovered abandoned near the Jagota area of Bhalla.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will commence his two-day trip to Jammu and Kashmir on June 20. During his visit to the Union territory, PM Modi will lay the foundation stone of multiple developmental projects and participate in the 10th International Day of Yoga event in Srinagar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi (ANI/File)

PM Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir will commence a day after security forces carried out a search operation and encounter in the Baramulla district on Wednesday, killing two terrorists. The operation currently remains underway.

"On specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a Joint Operation was launched by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police today in the Hadipora area of PD Sopore; two terrorists eliminated, and the operation is in progress," the Chinar Corps-Indian Army posted on X.

PM Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir: Full schedule

PM Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 20 and 21. At 6 pm on Thursday, the prime minister will participate in the 'Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K event in Srinagar.

The event "Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K" is a pivotal moment for the region, showcasing progress and providing inspiration to young achievers. On occasion, the prime minister will inspect stalls and interact with young achievers in the region.

Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects in Jammu and Kashmir. He will also launch Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP).

At 6:30 pm, PM Modi will participate in the 10th International Day of Yoga event at SKICC in Srinagar. He will address the gathering on the occasion and participate in the CYP yoga session.

The prime minister is also scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of 84 major developmental projects valued at more than Rs. 1,500 crore. The inaugurations will include projects related to road infrastructure, water supply schemes, infrastructure in higher education, etc.

PM Modi will also launch the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture & Allied Sectors (JKCIP) Project, worth Rs. 1,800 crore. The project will be implemented in 90 Blocks across 20 districts of J&K, and will have an outreach of 300,000 households, covering 15 lakh beneficiaries

During his two-day visit, the prime minister will distribute the letters of appointment to more than 2000 people appointed to government service.

(With inputs from PTI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bihar on Wednesday, June 19, to inaugurate the new Nalanda University campus near Rajgirs ancient university ruins. The campus is named after the ancient university, which attracted scholars from around the world about 1,600 years ago. Prime Minister Narendra Modi (ANI/File)

External affairs minister S Jaishankar and ambassadors from 17 partner countries also attended the event, according to officials.

Terming the occasion historic, the universitys interim vice-chancellor professor Abhay Kumar Singh told The Hindu, We consider the visit of the Prime Minister a very prestigious and auspicious occasion. The Prime Minister has made the occasion special because he is bringing the diplomats of East Asia Summit countries. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is also coming. This celebratory spirit will give Nalanda a boost.

PM Narendra Modi's Nalanda visit

Modi visited ancient Nalanda, which was announced as a UN heritage site in 2016, around 9.45am and inaugurated the campuses around 10.30am. He will also give a speech, according to a statement from the Prime Ministers Office (PMO).

Abhay Kumar Singh said Modis visit would make the university, where students from 26 countries are studying, more popular globally.

Bihar governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and chief minister Nitish Kumar joined the Prime Minister.

The university moved to its new campus in 2020, which combines traditional and modern architecture. The 455-acre campus includes a Net Zero area with 100 acres of water bodies.

Nalanda University history

In 2007, after the then-president APJ Abdul Kalams suggestion, the Bihar assembly passed a bill to build a foundation for a new university. The government provided 455 acres for the university, which was created on November 25, 2010, by a special Act of Parliament and designated as a national institution, The Hindu reported.

The new university began operating on September 1, 2014, from a temporary location with just 14 students. The temporary location, the International Convention Centre in Rajgir 10 km from ancient Nalanda, was inaugurated in September 2014 by the then-external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.

Former president Pranab Mukherjee laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus in Pilkhi village in Rajgir in 2016. Construction on the new campus started in 2017.

About Nalanda University

The university has two academic buildings with 40 classrooms, two 300-seat auditoriums, a hostel for around 550 students, a 2,000-seat amphitheatre, a sports complex, and an international centre. It hosts students and faculty from various countries, the report added.

The university offers postgraduate and doctoral research courses, short-term certificate courses, and 137 scholarships for international students, The Indian Express reported.
Abhijit Mukherjee, the son of the late former President Pranab Mukherjee, has expressed his desire to rejoin the Congress party after a brief stint with the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Mukherjee, who had joined TMC in 2021, cited a mismatch in work culture and lack of assignments as his primary reasons for seeking a return to his former party. Abhijit Mukherjee and former President late Pranab Mukherjee. (HT Archive)

Their (TMC's) work culture didn't match with that of the Congress at all...I thought enough is enough, Abhijit Mukherjee told ANI.

The former Congress MP opened up about his 2019 election loss, attributing it to undisclosed reasons, which he said the party high command was aware of. He also shared his frustration over being allegedly marginalised within Congress before his departure.

"For 2.5 years I carried out whatever assignment was given to me by the Congress. But they didn't give me enough assignments, whatever may be the reason. I was gradually marginalised by a particular person, a particular group...In the meantime, Mamata Didi called me back as I had sought time from her...I met them and they offered me to join them," he said.

Despite his initial hopes with TMC, Mukherjee lamented that his experience did not meet his expectations. "After joining the party, I got no such assignments. Their work culture didn't match with that of the Congress at all...I thought enough is enough...So, after coming back to Delhi...senior leaders (from Congress) asked me indirectly why am I lying lowgive it a thoughtThen young friend, future of Congress, Rahul (Gandhi), told me to get active," he said.

I sought time from senior high command (of Congress), maybe I would be able to meet them in a day or twoIf they ask me to join immediately, I would do it. I am absolutely free and ready to contribute...Definitely, if Congress accepts me...

Abhijit Mukherjee has been a two-term MP in the Lok Sabha from Jangipur Lok Sabha seat.
A report submitted to Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Tuesday recommended that the state government prohibit students from sporting paraphernalia that identifies their caste, ensure the removal of caste appellations from names of schools, and eventually introduce a legislation geared towards enforcing a policy of social inclusion, among suggestions on ways to prevent caste-based atrocities among students. Prohibit caste-based names, identifiers, panel tells TN govt

The report, seen by HT, was put together by retired Madras high court justice K Chandru. He was appointed by the state government to a one-man committee in August last year to study and suggest ways in which caste-based atrocities among students in school and college can be prevented after two children from the scheduled caste were assaulted by a group of students belonging to an intermediate caste in Nanguneri in Tirunelveli district.

I visited several districts including Tirunelveli, Madurai and Coimbatore and got responses from 2,742 people who are individuals, retired government servants, NGOs, justice Chandru told HT. But, none of the teachers associations nor students associations responded.

Students should be prohibited from wearing any coloured wristbands, rings, or forehead marks (tilaka), among other caste-based identifiers, the 18-page report said. Failure to comply with these rules must result in appropriate action being taken, in addition to advising their parents or guardians.

The state government should establish a Social Justice Students Force (SJSF) comprising students from all communities... united in their efforts to combat social evils, the report recommended.

In a series of recommendations for schools, it said words such as Kallar Reclamation, Adi Dravidar Welfare which directly identify caste should be removed. Existing private schools should also remove caste-based names and the government should take action against any schools failing to do so. If any educational agency seeks to establish a new school, the conditions for permission to start a school must include a stipulation that the schools name shall not bear any caste appellation.

Caste names of those donating to the schools must also be removed.

Among long-term recommendations, the report directs the government to enact a separate legislation governing all students to enforce a policy of social inclusion and eradicate caste discrimination. This legislation should impose duties and responsibilities on students, teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as the management of such institutions, and prescribe mechanisms for supervision, control, and sanctions for non-compliance with these directives, the report has said.

Among recommendations aimed towards teachers, it suggested that appointed school education department officials, such as education officers, should not be from the dominant caste in that area, while teachers should not refer to students either directly or indirectly by their caste. At the time of recruitment of teachers by the Teachers Recruitment Board (TRB), the aptitude of the teachers, as well as their attitude towards social justice issues, must be ascertained and taken into account for recruitment, the report said.

Teachers and staff of all schools and colleges must undergo a compulsory orientation programme relating to social issues, caste discrimination, and the different laws pertaining to sexual violence, sexual harassment, drugs, ragging, and offences against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes before the start of every academic year. Also, they must be informed of the consequences of violating those laws.

He also suggests the creation of rules regarding the Annual Confidential Reports (ACR). The ACR for Officers and Headmasters must include a column to record their attitudes towards Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, with appropriate procedures for maintaining these records, the recommendation said, adding that the state must prescribe statutorily a code of conduct for the teachers and staff of educational institutions run by the government.

The syllabus for the Bachelor of Education degree, conceived by the Tamil Nadu Teacher Education University (TNTEU), as well as the syllabus for the Diploma in Elementary Education, framed by the Tamil Nadu Board of State Council of Educational Research and Training (TNSCERT), must be thoroughly revised to ensure orientation towards inclusivity, it said.

An expert committee of educators must review the syllabus prescribed for school students and provide suggestions for eliminating insular views and include content that will enhance social justice values, non-discriminatory attitudes, and concepts of equality.

The retired justice has also recommended for the state government to create a post of School Welfare Officer (SWO) who must monitor the functioning of the school regarding issues of ragging, drug menace, sexual assault and offences related to caste discrimination and should address these issues in accordance with the law.

However, the issue of caste discrimination extends beyond student campuses and needs to be addressed at the societal level, he said in the report. Therefore, the government is advised to take appropriate steps to address this issue at the societal level for caste eradication and to foster communal harmony.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday made its first arrest in the Reasi terror attack case. Reasi: The damaged bus, which was carrying pilgrims.(PTI)

One Hakimdeen has confessed that he helped the terrorists as a guide and also helped them find shelter. He also said that he was present at the attack site and also heard gunshots. After the attack, he led the terrorists out of the area. On different occasions, the terrorists visited his residence, Reasi SSP Mohita Sharma said.



One day before the incident the terrorists stayed at his residence. He mentions about three terrorists. During recee of the site, he made sure that no CCTVs could capture him or the terrorists. He was given 6000 for this help by terrorists. We will not stop until those terrorists are either arrested or neutralised, the police official added.



Nine people lost their lives and 33 others were injured after a bus carrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district fell into a gorge after it came under terrorist attack in Teryath village in Pouni area on June 9.



On June 17, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) handed over the terror attack case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Union home minister Amit Shah, who had directed the security forces and intelligence agencies to replicate the successes achieved in Kashmir valley against terrorism in the Jammu region.



A day after the attack, a team from the NIA had also visited the spot to support local police and evaluate the ground situation. The NIA's forensic team had also visited the site, contributing to the collection of evidence.



On the day of terror attack, Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Toiba's front TRF took responsibility for the terror attack in a bid to portray that the targeting of pilgrims was carried out by terrorists in J&K and not by Islamists based in Lahore.



HT learnt that the June 9 terror attack was carried out deliberately at Reasi during the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. At least12 terrorists were moving inside the Rajouri-Poonch forests in the groups of three or two in the Jammu region.
Spiritual leader and founder of the Isha Foundation Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, responding to the National Council of Educational Research and Training's (NCERT) recommendation of replacing India with Bharat in all textbooks, said on Tuesday that it was important for a country to have a name that reverberates in everybodys heart. Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev (File)

Sadhguru, in a post on X, said, We should have reclaimed the name Bharat when the British left our shores. A name will not do everything but it is important the country is named in a way that reverberates in everyones heart.

Sadhguru added that even though the country meant everything to the citizens, India had no meaning. Even though the Nation means everything to us, the word India has no meaning. If we are unable or unwilling to change the name of the Nation officially, it is time we at least bring Bharat into our daily parlance.

Congratulating the NCERT on the recommendation, Sadhguru spoke about how the younger generation should know about Bharat.

Younger generations must know that Bharat existed long before India was born. Congratulations @ncert, he said.

A committee set up by the NCERT to revise the school curriculum suggested last year that the term "India" should be replaced with "Bharat" in textbooks for all grades.

NCERT director Dinesh Prasad Saklani on Monday said "Bharat" and "India" would be used interchangeably, just as in the Indian Constitution. He added that there was no aversion to either of the names.

It is interchangeable....our position is what our Constitution says and we uphold that. We can use Bharat, we can use India, what is the problem? We are not in that debate. Wherever it suits we will use India, wherever it suits we will use Bharat. We have no aversion to either India or Bharat. You can see both being used in our textbooks already and that will continue in new textbooks. This is a useless debate, Saklani said.

Meanwhile, as per PTI, Committee chairperson C I Isaac said, The committee has unanimously recommended that the name Bharat should be used in the textbooks for students across classes. Bharat is an age-old name. The name Bharat has been used in ancient texts, such as Vishnu Purana, which is 7,000 years old.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) alleged on Wednesday that the Australian deputy high commissioner was barred by the central government from meeting three West Bengal ministers, while people familiar with the matter said the diplomats meetings on a proposed visit to the state were clear on the principle of reciprocity. Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Sagarika Ghose. (File)

TMC members of Parliament (MPs) Sagarika Ghose and Saket Gokhale told a news conference that the Union governments action was completely autocratic and an attempt to spite West Bengal following the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s poor performance in the state in the general election.

The two MPs contended that the Centre was hindering the West Bengal governments efforts to attract foreign investment and Gokhale described the development as fiscal terrorism. They said the Trinamool Congress would raise this matter in Parliament after discussions with its partners in the INDIA opposition alliance.

The Australian side reportedly sought clearance from the external affairs ministry for deputy high commissioner Nicholas McCaffrey to meet four Trinamool Congress MPs, including Derek OBrien and Jawhar Sircar, and three West Bengal ministers, including Babul Supriyo, for a proposed visit to the state during June 18-21.

The external affairs ministry cleared the meetings with the MPs but didnt recommend the proposed meetings with the state ministers.

A no objection was conveyed to the Australian deputy high commissioner based on the principle of reciprocity for meeting officials of the West Bengal government at an appropriate level, a person familiar with developments said on condition of anonymity.

A second person said a minister of a state government is higher in protocol than a deputy chief of a foreign mission. An Indian deputy chief of mission wouldnt be allowed to meet a state minister, the second person said.

There was no word on the development from the Australian high commission.

Ghose told reporters: The central government is resorting to a conspiracy to deny permission to the Australian deputy high commissioner, who was going to West Bengal, to meet state ministers. All the states were involved during [last years] G20 Summit. Now, the federal structure of the state is being destroyed. Representatives of states who want to go abroad are being stopped and the way they are doing this in such a dirty, uncivilised manner is very shameful.

Gokhale said West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee had been denied permission by the Centre to travel abroad on more than one occasion.
Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders and a group of ministers, including the partys allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), on Thursday held a meeting to discuss issues that will be taken up during the Parliament session and the Presidents address to both Houses next week, functionaries aware of the details said. Top BJP leaders, partners discuss issues for Parliament session

The meeting was held at defence minister Rajnath Singhs residence and was attended by Union ministers Manohar Lal Khattar, Bhupender Yadav, Virendra Kumar, Piyush Goyal, Annapurna Devi and S Jaishankar. NDA partners Lalan Singh (Janata Dal - United) and Chirag Paswan (Lok Janshakti Party  Ram Vilas) were also present.

The Parliament session is scheduled to be held from June 24 to July 3. Both Houses are expected to take up the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the Presidents address on June 28.

Since the Cabinet committee on Parliamentary Affairs is yet to be constituted, the group of ministers was consulted on the Presidents speech, a BJP functionary said, seeking anonymity.

A second party functionary, who also did not wish to be identified, said the meeting also saw a discussion on the issues that will be taken up during the Parliament session.

There was no discussion on the election of the speaker and deputy speaker, the second functionary added, although the allies have broadly agreed to the BJP retaining the first post. The opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance bloc has sought the deputy speakers post for its nominee, by convention.

In 2019, when the BJP came to power for a second time, the post of the deputy speaker remained vacant and was not offered to any ally or opposition party.

While a meeting between Union home minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda and speaker Om Birla was held on Monday night, no details were shared about the discussion.

Meanwhile, a separate meeting of the Maharashtra and Jharkhand BJP core groups was held at the party headquarters later in the evening to discuss the strategy for the assembly elections in the two states this year.

Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, party state chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar and MP Ashok Chavan were among those who attended it.

The newly appointed in charges of Jharkhand and senior leaders from the eastern state attended the meeting, which also took stock of the partys performance in the Lok Sabha elections to assess the preparations that will be needed for the state polls, BJP functionaries said.

A similar meeting of the BJP core group in Haryana was also held and attended by party chief JP Nadda and Shah on Monday night.

According to the second functionary quoted above, the BJPs performance in Haryana, where it lost five of the 10 seats, was assessed on the basis of issues such as unrest among caste groups, anger against sitting MPs and job crisis.
The Centre on Wednesday announced cancellation of the UGC-NET examination following prima facie indications that integrity of exam compromised.



To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, the Ministry of Education, Government of India has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination be cancelled," the education ministry said in a statement.



A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately. Simultaneously, the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (C.B.I.) for thorough investigation in the matter, the ministry added.



UGC chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar had said that around 81 per cent of over 11.21 lakh registered candidates had appeared for the NET exam in 317 cities of the country.



The UGC-NET is an examination to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for the post of 'Assistant Professor' as well as 'Junior Research Fellowship and Assistant Professor' in Indian universities and colleges.



The UGC-NET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. UGC NET exam was conducted on June 18 in 317 cities across the country(Santosh Kumar)

The examination is conducted twice every year (June and December). To regularize the UGC-NET examination cycle, the NTA with the concurrence of UGC is conducting UGC NET June 2023 in 83 subjects, at selected cities across the country.

Awarding of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and/ or Eligibility for Assistant Professorship depends on the aggregate performance of the candidate in Paper-I and Paper-II of UGC-NET.

The development comes amid controversy around the NEET exam, which is facing allegations of irregularities.



ALSO READ: NEET UG row: Cong alleges organised corruption in BJP-ruled states, calls for pan-India protest on June 21

On the NEET exam, the education ministry said,"In the matter pertaining to the NEET(UG) Examination-2024, the issue related to grace marks has already been fully addressed. As regards certain irregularities alleged in the conduct of the examination in Patna, a detailed report has been sought from the Economic Offences Unit, Bihar Police. Government will take further action, on receipt of this report."

Government is committed to ensure the sanctity of examinations and protect the interest of students. It is reiterated that any individual/organization found to be involved in this matter will face strictest action, the ministry added.
Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday lashed out Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, saying the former chief minister has no right to seek votes in the name of Bal Thackeray.



Where has your Hindutva gone, you have no right to seek votes in Balasaheb Thackerays name, Shinde said at a rally to mark the foundation day of the undivided party.



Shiv Sena UBT has won only on Congress' vote bank. They are not following the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray. You discarded Balasaheb Thackerays ideology for vote bank politics, the chief minister added.



They (Shiv Sena UBT) are now with Congress, but we not like that and this is why we separated from them and formed real Shiv Sena. The people believe in us because we are the real Shiv Sena, he added.



Speaking on the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, Shinde said,"We have to strengthen Mahayuti in Maharashtra for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. I assure you all that we will win more seats in upcoming elections."



Thackeray too held a rally in a show of strength on the party's foundation day. Narendra Modi-led govt will collapse, we will set up INDIA bloc-led govt, he said.



ALSO READ: MVA presents a united front, says it will contest Maharashtra polls as one unit



Rejecting speculations of again aligning with the BJP, the Sena (UBT) chief said,"Will never go with those who tried to finish off Shiv Sena."



ALSO READ: Those who left me: Uddhav Thackeray on Eknath Shinde camp possible homecoming



Founded by Bal Thackeray in 1966, the Shiv Sena was split in 2022 after Eknath Shinde led a rebellion of party lawmakers to join hands with the BJP. The Election Commission in February last year recognised Shinde's faction as the real Shiv Sena.



In the just concluded Lok Sabha elections, the Mahayuti alliance comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party, Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP won 17 out of 48 seats. The Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance comprising Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (SP) won 30 seats.



Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde speaks during an event marking the Shiv Sena's foundation day.(Satish Bate/Hindustan Times)
In a tragic incident, Assam home secretary Siladitya Chetia on Tuesday shot himself dead with his service weapon inside the ICU of a private hospital in Guwahati where his wife passed away minutes earlier. Assam home secretary Siladitya Chetia

In an unfortunate turn of events, Sri Siladitya Chetia, IPS 2009, Secretary Home and Political took his own life this evening, a few minutes after the attending physician declared the death of his wife who was battling cancer for a long time. Entire Assam Police family is in deep grief, DGP GP Singh said in a post on X.

Siladitya Chetia is survived by two sisters. He had lost his mother and mother-in-law in the past few months, news agency PTI reported.

Agamonee Barbaruah had been receiving medical treatment at Nemcare Hospital in Guwahati city.

She had been battling for around two years and had received treatment elsewhere as well. For the last two months, she had been receiving conservative treatment here and he had taken up a separate room in the hospital, The Indian Express quoted MD of the hospital Dr Hitesh Baruah as saying.

In the last three days, we had informed him that her condition was deteriorating. Today at 4.30pm, the attending doctor informed him of her passing. The doctor and a nurse were in the room with him and he requested them to step out, saying that he wanted to pray. Around 10 minutes later, a loud sound was heard from the room, he said.

Who was Shiladitya Chetia, Assam IPS officer?
Washington: As Nikhil Gupta, the man indicted for conspiring with a serving government of India official to assassinate an American citizen, pleaded not guilty in a New York court on Monday, the US Attorney General Merrick Garland said that Guptas extradition was proof that the Justice Department wont tolerate attempts to silence or harm American citizens. The DOJ indicted Nikhil Gupta for allegedly plotting to assassinate Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. (AP)

Garlands statement was reinforced by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) director Christopher Wray who, in the same statement that quoted a range of top American law enforcement officials, said that the FBI wont tolerate attempts by foreign nationals, or anyone else for that matter, to repress constitutionally-protected freedoms.

Guptas extradition also led to a set of five progressive senators, including former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders and other Democrats who serve on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), writing a letter to Secretary of State Antony J Blinken expressing deep concerns about the allegation of a government of India official as well as reports of ongoing harassment and threats against Sikh Americans, and urging a strong diplomatic response to all those involved accountable.

Last year, the Department of Justice indicted Gupta for allegedly plotting to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who stands for a separate Khalistani state and is designated by India as a terrorist. Gupta, the indictment has alleged, was working at the behest of an Indian field intelligence official. The Washington Post, earlier this year, claimed the Indian official was Vikram Yadav. India has said that this is not government policy, and has set up an investigation committee to look into the inputs provided by the American side.

In the statement, Garland said, Nikhil Gupta will now face justice in an American courtroom for his involvement in an alleged plot, directed by an employee of the Indian government, to target and assassinate a U.S. citizen for his support of the Sikh separatist movement in India. I am grateful to the Departments agents who foiled this assassination plot and to our Czech partners for their assistance in this arrest and extradition.

The deputy AG Lisa Monaco said that the murder for hire plot was a brazen attempt to silence a political activist for exercising a quintessential American right: his freedom of speech. Pannun, India has repeatedly alleged, has been engaged in violence and has openly threatened to use violence. Monaco added, We will continue working relentlessly to identify, disrupt, and hold accountable those who seek to harm American citizens here or abroad.

Anne Milgram, the administrator of the Drug Enforcement Agency, said that DEA had uncovered an assassination plot orchestrated by an Indian government employee and Nikhil Gupta, an international narcotics trafficker. She added that the case was a testament to the partnerships DEA has built with our law enforcement partners around the globe, like the Czech Republics National Drug Headquarters, as well as our federal law enforcement partners here at home.

Separately, five senators - Sanders, Christopher Van Hollen, Jeff Merkley, Tim Kaine, Ron Wyden, wrote a letter to Blinken on Monday to express their deep concerns about credible allegations of the Indian governments involvement in a foiled plot to assassinate an American citizen on U.S. soil, as well as reports of ongoing harassment and threats against Sikh Americans. They urged a strong diplomatic response and requested a briefing on the status of the administrations engagement with the Indian government in this matter.

The Senators recognised the crucial relationship the US had with India across multiple domains but said that the relationship must be grounded in shared commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law, including respect for sovereignty and the individual rights and freedoms that are fundamental to any democracy. They said that the administration must match words with actions to hold Indian officials involved in the plot accountable, and to send a clear message that there will be consequences for such behavior. They said that with elections in India concluded, the US must make the issue a part of its core agenda with India.

The Biden administration has sought to compartmentalise the issue from the rest of the relationship, indicated in US NSA Jake Sullivans visit to India just this week to deepen the bilateral tech partnership.
The Ambani family left no stone unturned while celebrating Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani's pre-wedding festivities in Italy. Apart from inviting A-list Bollywood stars and Katy Perry and Andrea Bocelli's performances, the ladies of the family brought their best fashion foot forward, including the badi bahu, Shloka Merchant. (Also Read | Radhika Merchant looks out of this world in blush pink gown with Anant Ambani during pre-wedding celebrations: New pics) Shloka Ambani wore two floral gowns during Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani's pre-wedding gala. Check out the mind-blowing price(Instagram)

Shloka Ambani wore many custom couture and archival pieces for the festivities. However, her two floral gowns during the grand celebrations in Portofino caught our eye. The ensembles embodied the summer spirit and made for a perfect sartorial choice for the Italian Riviera. Find out their mind-blowing cost inside this copy.

Shloka Ambani wears two floral gowns during Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani's pre-wedding festivities. (Instagram)

What is their price?

The first gown Shloka chose for the celebrations in Portofino was a Giambattista Valli floral dress. The blush pink-coloured ensemble is called the Saint-Remy Off-Shoulder Maxi Dress. It comes at a whopping cost of 3,30,882 (3,697 Euros).

The price of the pink floral dress Shloka Ambani wore in Portofino. (farfetch.com)

The second gown is a yellow cascading floral ensemble by Carolina Herrera. It is called the Draped Silk Maxi Dress, and it is worth 2,99,591 (USD 3,594). The ensemble is from the label's Resort 2024 collection.

The price of the yellow floral gown Shloka Ambani wore in Italy. (modaoperandi.com)

Decoding Shloka Ambani's Portofino dresses

The Giambattista Valli floral dress comes in a blush pink shade adorned with a floral pattern reminiscent of summer days and spring blooms. The maxi features an off-the-shoulder neckline, draped sleeves, a pleated-twist design on the bust, a corseted bodice, a flowy skirt with a tiered detail, and a floor-length hem. Shloka styled the ensemble with bold red lips, centre-parted loose locks, and minimal glam.

The yellow-coloured Carolina Herrera silk gown is decorated in red, pink, green and white floral patterns. The ensemble features a strapless neckline, a ruched design, applique flowers adorned on the bodice, free-flowing drapery, and an asymmetric hemline. Shloka chose loose locks, a red lip shade, rings, a bracelet, and earrings to style the ensemble.
Deepika Padukone is busy being the talk of the town. The actor attended the pre-release event of her upcoming film on Wednesday and sent the internet into a meltdown with her fresh baby bump pictures. Deepika is currently busy with the promotions of her upcoming release  Kalki 2898 AD. The epic dystopian historical action-drama film, directed by Nag Ashwin, features a star-studded cast including Deepika, Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Disha Patani, and Brahmanandam. The pre-release event of the film took place in Mumbai today, and Deepika walked into the event, not without giving us fresh maternity fashion goals. Deepika Padukone announced her pregnancy with husband Ranveer Singh in February this year.(HT Photos/Varinder Chawla, Instagram/@deepikapadukone)

ALSO READ: Mom-to-be Deepika Padukone shares baby bump pics, sends internet into meltdown

Here's what Deepika Padukone wore for Kalki 2898 AD pre-release event:

Deepika graced the event in a sleek black bodycon dress that showed off her baby bump in style. The actor is pregnant with husband Ranveer Singh  the couple announced their pregnancy in February this year. Coming back to Deepika's maternity pick for the midweek  Deepika kept it minimal and chic with the slim fit dress with wide length and featuring wide straps at the front. The actor played muse to fashion designer house Loewe as she decked up in the bodycon dress. Deepika's dress also featured a silver pebble embellishment at the neckline. Take a look at the pictures here.

Deepika Padukone's dress costs...

The Anagram Pebble dress in cotton is priced at a whopping 114,000 on the official website of Loewe.

The black bodycon dress is priced at 114,000 on Loewe's official website.(https://www.loewe.com/)

Deepika's pictures were, in no time, showered with a whole lot of love from her Instagram family. Reacting to the pictures, Jacqueliene Fernandez commented, "So beautiful," and added multiple red heart emoticons. Designer Masaba Gupta reacted with multiple red heart emoticons, while Shibani Akhtar wrote, "Stunning," and added a fire emoticon.

Deepika Padukone married Ranveer Singh in 2018  the couple fell in love on the sets of the 2013 film Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela. Deepika and Ranveer announced their pregnancy with a super adorable picture featuring baby shoes, clothes, balloons and hearts on Instagram on February 29.
International Day of Yoga 2024: Yoga as a workout routine has a holistic approach in healing the body and mind. The yoga asanas help in targeting specific muscle groups in the body, and strengthening the muscles, bones and the joints. Yoga also helps in regulating the nervous system, and relaxing the mind  this further helps in alleviating symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety. With personal worries and work tension in our daily lives, it is very easy for us to feel overwhelmed. However, the constant feeling of overwhelm can contribute to a dysregulated nervous system, triggering several chronic disorders. Hence, it is important to keep the impact of stress under check. Ustrasana, or the Camel Pose, is a backbend routine that helps in opening up the chest.(Grand Master Akshar)

Every year, International Day of Yoga is observed to emphasise on the importance of incorporating a yoga routine in our daily lives. This year, the theme of International Day of Yoga focuses on empowering women through yoga practice. International Day of Yoga will be observed on June 21.

ALSO READ: Yoga and womens health: 5 asanas that can help women lead a healthier life

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, Author and Columnist said, "In today's fast-paced world, stress has become an integral part of our lives. From work deadlines to personal commitments, we often find ourselves overwhelmed and drained, both physically and mentally. However, the ancient practice of yoga offers a powerful antidote to stress, helping us cultivate inner peace and tranquility. By incorporating yoga asanas (postures) into our daily routine, we can effectively manage stress and enhance our overall well-being. Meditation practices such as Siddhohum Kriya and Super power meditation are also effective ways to improve your mood and mental health."

Breath awareness:

Controlled breathing techniques, known as pranayama, are a fundamental aspect of yoga. Deep, mindful breathing has a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation.

Gentle stretching with forward folds:

Forward bending poses, such as Padahasthasana (Standing Forward Bend) and Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend), are excellent for releasing tension in the spine, hamstrings, and hips. They also promote a sense of grounding and encourage relaxation.

Backbends:

Backbends, like Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) and Ustrasana (Camel Pose), open up the chest and help in feeling confident and positive.

Standing poses:

Standing poses, such as Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) and Virabhadrasana (Warrior Poses), require focus, balance, and stability. These asanas encourage present-moment awareness, helping to quiet the mind and cultivate inner peace.

Inversions:

Inverting your body through poses like Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) and Halasana (Plow Pose) can offer a refreshing perspective, literally and figuratively. Inversions help in calming the mind, improving circulation, and reducing stress and anxiety.

Savasana:

Savasana (Corpse Pose) is a state of complete relaxation and surrender. This mindful relaxation can help in cultivating a sense of inner peace and clarity, leaving us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
In a promising development for Indian travellers, Taiwan is actively considering the implementation of visa-on-arrival (VoA) for Indian citizens. Deputy Foreign Minister of Taiwan, Tien Chung-kwang expressed this intention, highlighting India's significant outbound travel and the potential benefits of easing visa procedures. Deputy Foreign Minister Tien Chung-kwang highlighted this potential policy change, citing India's significant outbound travel and the benefits of easing visa procedures.(Pixabay)

Speaking to reporters in Taipei on Tuesday, he acknowledged the proposal and emphasised the necessity of internal discussions with Taiwan's Immigration Department before any formal decision can be made. He underscored the collaborative nature of such a policy change, indicating that it cannot be enacted single-handedly by the government.

"Indian citizens travel a lot...We are considering this (visa-on-arrival). We are going to talk with the Immigration Department. The Government can't single-handedly (do it), we have to discuss internally," he said. "We have been proposed to have a visa-on-arrival. We are giving very serious consideration," Tien Chung-kwang stated, reflecting Taiwan's proactive stance on facilitating tourism and business travel from India.

When the Indian government initiated "Look East Policy" in early 1991, Taiwan and India started to approach each other and loosen visa restrictions. This development comes after Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister strongly rejected China's objection to the recent exchange of messages between Taiwan President Lai Ching Te and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after the latter's election win.

"I am sure Modi ji and our President will not be intimidated by that reaction," the Deputy Foreign Minister of Taiwan said. The Chinese Embassy in India recently reiterated that Taiwan is an "inalienable part" of the territory of China. The embassy's spokesperson further emphasised that the one-China is a universally recognised norm in international relations and a prevailing consensus in the international community.

The India-Taiwan economic partnership has grown significantly in recent years. Taiwan has considered India as a critical partner under its 'New Southbound Policy', and both countries have also signed a migration agreement to allow Indian workers to be employed in Taiwanese industries. Lai Ching-te, in a stern warning to China, called on Beijing to stop intimidating the island nation, over which China continues to make its claim.
The world seems to be existing almost continually on an edge. The arena of conflicts that can escalate into global catastrophe has expanded enormously in the 21st century. Climate change and issues of environmental degradation have been raising pressing question marks over the modern worlds way of dealing with nature. Our world is at a unique juncture in history, characterised by increasingly uncertain and complex trajectories shifting at an unprecedented speed, begins a UNESCO report on the Futures of Education. The question arises, can a viable human future be imagined unless humankind learns to care for nature and is able to accommodate different people and their cultures in a harmonious whole rather than seeking to assert the dominance of one over another? Indian civilisation has, for centuries, been proclaiming to the world how to bridge the gulf between the inner and the outer world, reconciling the material and the spiritual, and creating a common ground where all kinds of differences can be accommodated within yearning for truth. Education in ancient India was instrumental in developing ideas and attitudes that remain relevant even in todays world of artificial intelligence. One of its best examples was the ancient Nalanda University which flourished in the northeastern part of Bihar. **EDS: IMAGE VIA @narendramodi POSTED ON JUNE 19, 2024** Nalanda: The new campus of Nalanda University ahead of its inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (PTI Photo) (PTI06_19_2024_000007B)(PTI)

The idea behind establishing the new Nalanda University was to revive the ancient learning that had made Nalanda an international centre of knowledge. It was an idea that would bring East Asia and India into a partnership for recovering and renewing the legacy of ancient Indian thought and practices While established by Parliament in 2010, the real impetus to the project was given in 2014 when a new push was given to reclaim the glory of the ancient Nalanda university. By 2017, work on a world-class infrastructure had started to make Nalanda University an important international centre for education.

In an important study of ancient Nalanda University, historian Pintu Kumar said, The emergence of SriNalandaMahavihara and its new organised instructive practices marked the beginning of a new era in South Asian education. It symbolised the height of the ancient Indian educational system The transformation of mahaviharas into learning and training institutions was the beginning of institutionalized instruction in South Asia, which was itself different from gurukulas. The Buddhist sources tell us that it was King Sakaraditya (Kumara Gupta I) who laid the foundations of the Nalanda University in the middle of the 5th century AD. While the West has historically found it difficult to accommodate divergent religious and cultural inspiration, it is remarkable that the ancient Gupta rulers could extend significant patronage to what began as a Buddhist centre of learning, while being devoted to Hindu Vaishnava religious ideas and practices.

The knowledge about the glorious epoch represented by ancient Nalanda University comes chiefly from Hsuan Tsang and other travellers who came and resided here for a time. This university attracted scholars from far and wide. A L Basham mentions that the ancient Nalanda did not confine itself to training novices for the Buddhist order, but also taught the Vedas, Hindu philosophy, logic, grammar and medicine. It would seem that the student population was not confined to the Buddhist order, but that students of other faiths who succeeded in passing a strict oral examination were admitted. From the 5th to the 12th century till it fell to the pillage of Bakhtiyar Khilji, the ancient Nalanda University contributed significantly to the growth of philosophy, logic, medicine, astronomy, and other areas of knowledge. Stalwarts such as Nagarjuna, Diganaga and Asanga resided and taught at Nalanda University and Shisksha Sammucchchyaya by Shantideva, a compendium on learning was written here.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has often spoken of making the 21st century an Asian century. When he inaugurates the campus of the new Nalanda University, it will mark a significant step in that direction. The campus has students from all across the world, and the university project itself has participation from 17 different countries. It is apt that the ambassadors of these countries will be present at the inauguration. The PMs visit to the Nalanda University is a step forward in furthering Indian and Asiatic legacy for the benefit of mankind in its hour of crisis.

Ashwin Parijat Anshu is assistant professor, Zakir Husain Delhi College, Delhi University. The views expressed are personal
Bollywood actors Shatrughan Sinha, Sara Ali Khan and Arjun Kapoor may soon have new neighbors. The Union Bank of India has issued a public notice to sell properties of Indus Projects Limited and its promoters after they failed to pay the dues. The reserve price for the prime property to be auctioned is 104.11 crore. The Union Bank of India has issued a public notice to sell properties of Indus Projects Limited and its promoters after they failed to pay the dues. The building is located in the same neighborhood where Shatrughan Sinha lives.(HT FILE PHOTO.)

Also Read: Shatrughan Sinha gives Zaheer Iqbal his blessings, poses for paparazzi with Sonakshi Sinhas to-be husband. Watch

The building is located in the same neighbourhood where Bollywood stars such as Sara Ali Khan, Arjun Kapoor and Shatrughan Sinha and his family reside.

Also Read: 5 things to know about Sonakshi Sinha's wedding with Zaheer Iqbal: Date, venue, 'no red' dress code and more

The notice says that the bank plans to auction the 9-storey residential building owned by the promoters. The building comprises seven 4BHK and a duplex located in Mumbais Juhu Vile Parle Development (JVPD), Kapole Society in Vile Parle West.

The residential property is a nine-storeyed building located in Nutan Laxmi CHS Ltd. The plot measures 800 sq yards in the Nutan Laxmi Co-operative Housing Society Ltd., North South Road, J V P D. Scheme, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, the bank notice shared by Hecta, a marketing platform of repossessed properties being auctioned by banks and financial institutions, showed.

Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan's next door bungalow up for sale. Reserve price set at 25 crore

Indus Projects Limited, a public company incorporated in 1997, is the owner of the building. The notice mentioned names of Kishor Mehta, Abhai Mehtax, Mahavir Mehta, Madhur Mehta and Indus Mechanical Engineering Company Private Limited as borrowers of the bank.

Indus Projects Limited could not be reached for a comment.

The total outstanding dues are around 90.46 crore. The owners owe Union Bank Of India around 71.85 crore plus interest at applicable rate, costs, dues, and expenses and they owe State Bank of India 18.60 crore plus further interest at applicable rate, costs, dues, and expenses that may accrue from April 23 till total repayment and settlement of dues, the notice said.

The bungalow is being auctioned by Union Bank of India under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act (SARFAESI) of 2002.

Since you failed to comply with the said notice within the period stipulated, the Authorized Officer has taken possession of the immovable secured assets under Section 13(4) of the Act read with Rule 8 of Security Interest (Enforcement) Rules, 2002, the notice said.

Also Read: India's ultra rich invest 32% of their wealth in residential assets: Knight Frank Report

Since the owners have failed to clear the dues of the secured creditor, the immovable secured assets that have been taken possession of by the Authorised Officer of the bank, will be sold by holding public E-auction on June 20, 2024 by inviting bids from the public through online mode on www.mstcecommerce.com, the notice showed.

This deal is at a 25% discount from market price. The amount has to be paid from banking channels as it is a fully cashless transaction and payment has to be completed within 15 days from the auction date, said Sridhar Samudrala, founder and CEO, Hecta.

These are ready-to-possess and ready-to-occupy floors in a premium location. Rarely do we get access to such premium properties that too at a discount, he added.

Wish to buy a property through a bank auction? Heres what you should know

Most of these properties are available at a discount to market price as these are auctioned by banks only after the loan borrower misses multiple payments and the lender auctions the property to recover the outstanding principal and interest amount on the loan.

Buyers wanting to procure properties through a bank auction should verify details of the property, especially the legal details, before they decide to bid for them.

Buyers should be aware that the reserve price quoted excludes dues (such as electricity, property tax, maintenance), which are payable by the buyer.

The prospective buyer should also check for physical possession status of the property, whether the physical possession has been obtained by the bank advertising the sale, after following the due process.

These properties are sold on As is where is basis or Whatever is there is or No recourse basis which means that the buyer needs to check the inclusions and exclusions and cannot withdraw from the deal once the auction is over (unless due to exceptional legal circumstances), says a legal expert.

In case of bungalows or apartments that are auctioned, buyers should check if there are any liabilities associated with the properties that are being auctioned, said a legal expert.
Amazon offers security devices for your home and provides unparalleled opportunities to enhance home security with its current promotions. Enjoy substantial discounts of up to 70% on a wide range of essential security devices including home locks, cameras, video door phones, and alarm systems. These offerings cater to diverse security needs, from basic surveillance to advanced monitoring solutions. Whether upgrading existing security measures or starting anew, Amazon's extensive selection ensures access to high-quality products from trusted brands. Now protect your home and family with the best home locks, cameras, video door phones and alarm systems.

Enhance peace of mind with robust locking mechanisms, state-of-the-art cameras for real-time monitoring, and smart video door phones that integrate seamlessly with modern lifestyles. Alarm systems offer additional layers of protection, alerting homeowners to potential threats promptly. Take advantage of these discounted prices to fortify your home against intrusions and safeguard loved ones and valuables effectively. With Amazon's commitment to customer satisfaction and reliability, securing your home has never been more accessible or affordable.

Which Godrej home security devices can I buy?

The Godrej Security Solutions SeeThru VDP RE7 V-Series Video Door Phone Wired 960p White enhances home security with its 7" colour indoor monitor and support for 2 door stations and 3 monitors. Ideal for outdoor use, it features a wide-angle colour camera with LED night vision for clear visibility in low light. Adjust brightness, colour, and contrast for optimal viewing. It supports smartphone connectivity via Wi-Fi, allowing remote monitoring and door lock release via the Android controller. Surface-mounted for easy installation, it ensures comprehensive surveillance and access control, making it a thoughtful gift for those prioritising home security. Available at discounted prices on Amazon.

Specifications of Godrej SeeThru VDP RE7 V-Series:

Connectivity Technology: Wired

Power Source: Corded Electric

Special Features: Night Vision, Door Lock Release

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid Clear night vision Wired connectivity may limit flexibility Supports multiple monitors Installation might require professional help

The Godrej Security Solutions WiFi 1080p FHD 2MP 360 Viewing Area Security Camera, White offers comprehensive home security with its 1080p FHD resolution and 2MP camera. It provides a wide 360 viewing area, ensuring no blind spots with its panoramic view. Featuring advanced night vision up to 30 ft, motion alerts, and two-way audio, it allows remote monitoring via the Spotlight app on smartphones and tablets. Easily record footage on a 128GB SD card for extended storage. This wireless camera supports 2.4GHz WiFi for seamless connectivity, making it an excellent choice for those seeking reliable, high-definition surveillance solutions. Available at discounted rates on Amazon.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions Camera:

Connectivity Technology: Wireless

Power Source: AC

Special features: HD Resolution, Night Vision, Motion Sensor

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid High-definition video quality Requires 2.4GHz WiFi network Panoramic 360 viewing Setup may require tech knowledge

The Godrej Security Solutions EVE PRO panTilt Smart WiFi Security Camera ensures comprehensive indoor security with its 3MP HD video quality and 350-degree pan and 90-degree tilt function. It features a built-in microphone and speaker for two-way communication, IR LED night vision up to 10 meters, and a wide 100-degree viewing angle. Compatible with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops via the Godrej ACE app, it supports up to 128GB Micro SD card for video storage. Ideal for monitoring homes, it offers smart motion tracking and humanoid detection, ensuring enhanced security and peace of mind. Available at competitive prices on Amazon.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions EVE PRO:

Connectivity Technology: Wireless

Power Source: Corded Electric

Special features: HD Resolution, Smart Motion Tracking

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid High-definition 3MP video quality Requires a stable WiFi connection Pan and tilt function May need technical setup

The Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 10 Litres Digital Electronic Safe Locker offers robust security for both home and office environments. Constructed from heavy-duty alloy steel with motorised bolts, it ensures enhanced safety for valuables. Features include a numeric keypad for password operation, with a digital display for easy access management. In case of emergencies like drained batteries or forgotten passwords, it includes a manual override key. Ideal for gifting on birthdays or anniversaries, it comes with all the necessary mounting accessories for floor installation. Available at competitive prices on Amazon.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro:

Lock Type: Electronic, Key

Capacity: 10 litres

Mounting Type: Floor Mount

Special features: Motorized Locking Mechanism

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid Sturdy alloy steel construction Floor mounting may require drilling Electronic and key lock options Initial setup might need assistance

Also read: Best Wi-Fi security cameras for home surveillance: Choose from top-rated options

The Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 15 15-litre Digital Electronic Safe Locker offers reliable security for home and office use. Constructed from durable alloy steel with a motorised locking mechanism, it ensures robust protection for valuables. Featuring both electronic keypad and key lock options, it includes an auto-lock function after 4 incorrect passcode attempts. In emergencies such as drained batteries, it provides a manual override key and USB charging option for external power supply. Ideal for gifting on special occasions, it comes with all the necessary mounting accessories for wall installation. Available at competitive prices on Amazon.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro:

Lock Type: Electronic, Key

Capacity: 15 litres

Mounting Type: Wall Mount

Special features: Motorized Locking Mechanism, Touchpad Control

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid Durable alloy steel construction Wall mounting may require tools Electronic and key lock options Initial setup may need assistance

The Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 15 15-litre safe Locker offers compact and secure storage for valuables at home or in the office. Made from sturdy alloy steel and equipped with a reliable mechanical code lock, it ensures robust protection against unauthorised access. This safe locker features key unlock functionality, making it easy to use without the need for a master password. Ideal for wall mounting with included fasteners, it provides peace of mind for storing important documents, jewellery, and more. Perfect for those seeking reliable security solutions in a compact size, available at competitive prices on Amazon.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro:

Lock Type: Mechanical Code Lock

Capacity: 15 litres

Mounting Type: Wall Mount

Special features: Key Unlock

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid Sturdy alloy steel construction Manual operation may be less convenient Key unlock feature Limited capacity compared to larger models

Also read: Best wireless security cameras for home surveillance: Pick from top 7 options

The Godrej Security Solutions Forte Fire-Resistant 40 LTR Locker is a robust safe designed to withstand fire for up to 60 minutes, tested and certified by Rise - Research Institutes of Sweden. Made from durable metal with tongue and groove construction, it prevents hot gases or smoke from entering, ensuring the protection of valuables. Featuring dual key locks for added security, it offers ample space of 40 litres for storing important documents and valuables securely. Ideal for wall mounting, it comes with all necessary components and is available in a sleek Light Grey & Black colour scheme. Perfect for home or office use, providing peace of mind against fire hazards.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions Forte Fire Resistant 40 LTR Locker:

Lock Type: Key

Capacity: 40 litres

Mounting Type: Wall Mount

Special features: Fire-resistant

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid Fire resistant for up to 60 minutes Manual key operation may require extra care Ample 40 litres capacity May need professional installation for wall mounting

The Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 20 L Home Safe offers advanced security features for both home and office use. Built with heavy-duty alloy steel and stainless steel motorised bolts, it ensures robust protection for valuables. This safe includes an optical biometric sensor capable of storing up to 30 fingerprints, providing foolproof security and easy access for authorised users. Featuring an automatic lock function after 4 incorrect fingerprint entries, it alerts against potential theft. In case of emergencies like drained batteries, a mechanical override key offers traditional access. Ideal for wall mounting with included fasteners, it guarantees peace of mind with USB power backup ensuring continuous functionality. Available in Light Grey, it's a perfect choice for secure storage.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 20 L Home Safe:

Lock Type: Electronic, Key

Capacity: 20 litres

Mounting Type: Wall Mount

Special features: Auto Lock, Optical Biometric Sensor

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid Advanced biometric security Initial setup may require technical knowledge Automatic lock feature May need occasional battery replacement

The Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 40 Litres Biometric Safe Locker ensures top-notch security for home and office valuables. Constructed from heavy-duty alloy steel with stainless steel motorised bolts, it offers robust protection. Featuring an optical fingerprint sensor, it stores up to 30 fingerprints for secure access, complemented by an automatic lock after 4 incorrect entries. A mechanical override key provides backup access when needed, ensuring continuous security even during power outages. Ideal for floor mounting, it includes all necessary components for easy installation. With USB charging capability for emergencies, this safe in Light Grey is an ideal choice for safeguarding valuables, making it a thoughtful gift for birthdays or anniversaries.

Specifications of Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 40 Litres Biometric Safe Locker:

Lock Type: Electronic, Key

Capacity: 40 litres

Mounting Type: Floor Mount

Special features: Biometric Lock, In-Built Alarm

Reasons to buy Reasons to avoid Biometric fingerprint security Requires periodic fingerprint management Heavy-duty construction May be heavy to relocate once installed

Also read: 10 Best Smart Door Locks for home security in 2024: Top picks for a safe home

Top 3 features of the best security devices for your home:

Product Name Product Type Warranty Special Features Godrej Security Solutions SeeThru VDP RE7 V-Series Video Door Phone Video Door Phone 1 Year Supports multiple monitors, LED night vision, Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring Godrej Security Solutions WiFi 1080p FHD 2MP 360 Viewing Area Security Camera Security Camera 1 Year 360 panoramic view, Motion alerts, Two-way audio Godrej Security Solutions EVE PRO panTilt Smart WiFi Security Camera for Home Security Camera 1 Year 350-degree pan and 90-degree tilt, Humanoid detection, IR LED night vision Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 10 Litres Digital Electronic Safe Locker Safe Locker 1 Year Digital display, Numeric keypad, Manual override key Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 15 Litres Digital Electronic Safe Locker Safe Locker 1 Year USB charging, Touchpad control, Auto-lock function Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 15 Litres Safe Locker Safe Locker 1 Year Mechanical code lock, Compact design, Easy wall mounting Godrej Security Solutions Forte Fire Resistant 40 LTR Locker Safe Locker 1 Year Fire resistance for 60 minutes, Dual key locks, Tongue and groove construction Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 20 L Home Safe Safe Locker 1 Year Optical biometric sensor, USB power backup, Automatic lock after incorrect entries Godrej Security Solutions Forte Pro 40 Litres Biometric Safe Locker Safe Locker 1 Year Biometric fingerprint sensor, In-built alarm, Heavy-duty alloy steel construction

Best value for money home security device on Amazon

The Godrej Security Solutions WiFi 1080p FHD 2MP 360 Viewing Area Security Camera offers comprehensive home security with its 1080p full HD resolution and 2MP camera, delivering clear and detailed footage. The 360-degree panoramic view ensures no blind spots, providing extensive coverage. Advanced features include night vision up to 30 feet, motion alerts, and two-way audio, allowing for real-time communication. This wireless camera supports seamless connectivity through a 2.4GHz WiFi network and remote monitoring via the Spotlight app on smartphones and tablets. Additionally, it supports up to 128GB SD card for extended video storage, making it a highly cost-effective choice.

Best overall home security device on Amazon:

The Godrej Security Solutions SeeThru VDP RE7 V-Series Video Door Phone is an outstanding choice for enhancing home security. This video door phone features a 7-inch colour indoor monitor that supports up to 2 door stations and 3 monitors, ideal for comprehensive surveillance. Its wide-angle colour camera with LED night vision ensures clear visibility even in low-light conditions. The device supports smartphone connectivity via Wi-Fi, enabling remote monitoring and door lock release through an Android controller. Easy to install with surface mounting, it provides a robust security solution for modern homes, combining functionality with convenience.

How to pick the best security products on Amazon's offers?

Identify Your Security Needs: Before browsing through Amazons offers, assess your specific security requirements.

Consider Key Features: Look for products with the following features, based on your security needs.

Evaluate Brand Reputation and Reviews

Check for Smart Features: Many modern security devices come with smart features that integrate with your lifestyle.

Warranty and After-Sales Support: A good warranty and reliable customer support are crucial. Check the warranty period and the availability of customer service in case of issues.

Compare Prices and Offers

Ease of Installation and Use

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FAQs on the best Amazon offers on security devices for your home

1. How do I choose the right security products on Amazon?

When choosing security products on Amazon, consider your specific security needs, such as surveillance, access control, or valuables protection. Look for key features like high resolution, night vision, motion detection for cameras, and sturdy construction and lock type for safes.

2. What are some of the top features to look for in security products?

For security cameras, look for high resolution (1080p or higher), night vision, a wide field of view, motion detection, and two-way audio. For security lockers, consider the lock type (biometric, electronic, mechanical, or key), construction material (alloy steel or metal), fire resistance, and mounting options.

3. Can I install these security devices myself, or do I need professional help?

Many home security devices, including cameras and smart locks, are designed for easy DIY installation.

4. Are these security devices compatible with smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home?

Yes, many modern security devices are designed to integrate seamlessly with popular smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home. This allows for convenient voice control and automation.

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 28-year-old woman from Delhi collapsed and died during her pre-wedding festivities in Uttarakhands Nainital district on Saturday. According to a Times of India report, Shreya Jain had arrived at a luxury resort in Naukuchiatal along with her family and friends to celebrate her upcoming wedding. A Delhi woman died during her pre-wedding festivities in Nainital (Representational image)

Jain was set to tie the knot with her Lucknow-based groom when things took a tragic turn. While dancing at her mehendi ceremony on Saturday, the 28-year-old collapsed. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, she was pronounced dead at a hospital.

Her last rites were held at Kathgodam before the grieving family returned to Delhi.

My daughter had completed her MBA after BTech and was very happy about her wedding. The groom works in an IT company in Lucknow, Shreya Jains grieving father, pediatrician Dr Sanjay Jain, told Times of India.

Bhimtal SHO Inspector Jagdeep Negi said that Jain likely succummbed to cardiopulmonary complications. He said that her wedding was supposed to take place on Sunday and the family had booked the luxurious Parichay Resort for the occasion.
It's so hot right now, just stepping outside for ten minutes feels unbearable. Tap water feels like it's boiling, and there's no relief from the heat. It's almost unlivable, reads a post from a Delhi-based entrepreneur on the social media platform X. Puneet Siinghals post is one among thousands of such tweets that have appeared on X (formerly Twitter) over the last few days as the national capital scorches under one of its hottest summers on record. A man covers his face using a cloth to shield himself from the sun as he inspects railway tracks during a hot summer day in New Delhi. (REUTERS)(HT_PRINT)

The severe heatwave sweeping north India has killed at least five people this week in New Delhi, the Times of India reported. Since March, temperatures have soared to 50 degrees C (122 F) in Delhi and the nearby desert state of Rajasthan, Amid the high temperature, the national capital is also grappling with water shortage and rising power consumption - its power consumption touched an all-time high on Tuesday, when the minimum nighttime temperature reached 33.8 degrees Celsius, the highest for June in six years.

Delhi is unlivable has become a constant and concerning refrain on social media. Several social media users pointed out how Delhis scorching summers are coupled with freezing temperatures in winters, ever-present pollution and water drainage issues during the monsoon season.

Take a look at some social media reactions below:

Journalist Rituparna Chatterjee was among the dozens of social media users who spoke about the heatwave in Delhi. I don't think people elsewhere fully grasp what's happening in NCR and just how hot it is. At 7am, the tap water is boiling hot. The sun hurts the eye. There's no night time anymore. For 24 hours the temperature feels above 40C. Which means during night the water is as hot, she wrote on X.

In fact, tap water boiling is a complaint made by several other Delhi residents.

One person said the water temperature from taps in Delhi touched 75 degrees Celsius. The day isn't far when you can cook Maggi without a stove, he wrote.

Many also called it the hottest summer in living memory

In the prevailing heatwave, Delhi residents said their ACs were barely working. Delhi- NCR folks do you feel any respite from the heat even with the AC on during the day? asked one person on X.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely to continue over many parts of North India during Wednesday and gradually abate thereafter due to an approaching western disturbance towards northwest India.

(With inputs from agencies)
New York resident Erin Clancy, 42, welcomed her twins born six months apart and over 1,400 km away from each other. Yes, you read that right. As per reports, the elder son was born biologically and other through a surrogate who lived away from Clancy. She gave birth to her biological child, Dylan, in May 2023, and after six months, another child was born. (Unsplash)

Clancy told The Sun that she met her husband, Brian, in 2016 on an online dating site. She described him as "handsome and caring and just what she was looking for". After three years of their relationship, he proposed and the two got married in September 2020. While the two tried having a child in 2021, they faced issues and later began IVF treatment. (Also Read: Twins separated at birth reunite after 19 years, all because of a TikTok video)

"The first round failed, and although the second was initially successful, I miscarried at seven weeks. I was devastated, struggling to know what to do, especially as the medication for the cycles gave me horrible migraines. That's when our thoughts turned to surrogacy. After lots of research, we registered with an agency, and in May 2022 we were matched with our surrogate, who lived 900 miles away in Illinois. That August, my period was late. It seemed impossible, but I took a pregnancy test  and it was positive," said Clancy.

She further added, "I was scared and overjoyed and couldn't let myself believe this pregnancy would go full-term. At six weeks, I began bleeding and was rushed to hospital. A scan showed all was well, but I felt sure disaster was about to strike, so we decided to continue with the surrogacy after telling her we were pregnant and asking if she was OK to proceed as planned. Following both paths was our best chance for a baby, and if we ended up with two we'd be doubly delighted." (Also Read: UK mother gives birth to twins 22 days apart in different hospitals, baffles doctors)

She gave birth to her biological child, Dylan, in May 2023, and after six months, Declan was born.

Numerous people were confused about how Clancy had two children in the span of six months, and that's when she informed people about the dual pregnancy.
Ixigo co-founder and CEO Aloke Bajpai shared two pictures to show how far the travel booking platform has come as it made its stock market debut on Tuesday. Ixigo co-founders Aloke Bajpai and Rajnish Kumar(X/@alokebajpai)

Shares of Le Travenues Technology Ltd, which operates ixigo, on Tuesday ended with a huge premium of over 78 per cent against the issue price of 93. The company's market valuation stood at 6,275.87 crore.

Ixigos Dalal Street debut is the culmination of nearly two decades of hard work for the companys co-founders Aloke Bajpai and Rajnish Kumar, who started the travel booking platform out of a one-room office - as evidenced by the throwback photo that Bajpai shared on social media yesterday.

The photograph, captioned How it started, shows Bajpai and Kumar in front of two desktops during the early days of ixigo. The two IIT-Kanpur batchmates had launched the travel booking platform in 2007. Bajpai followed up this picture with a more recent one taken during ixigos stock market debut. How its going, he captioned the picture, taken during the bell ringing ceremony.

Take a look at the post below:

According to a Forbes piece published in December 2023, Bajpai returned to India in 2006 after a four-year stint at Amadeus in Europe. He launched ixigo with Rajnish Kumar in June 2007.

However, the company failed to secure funding from VCs that year. Forget funding, I dont think you will ever make money or grow big, one VC told the dejected founder of ixigo.

In this case, at least, the VC was proven wrong as ixigo made a stellar stock market debut on Tuesday. The stock started the trade at 135, rallying 45.16 per cent from the issue price on the BSE. Later, it zoomed 74.18 per cent to settle at 161.99.

(With inputs from PTI)
A lawyer has complained about Air India after the airline altered the tickets of an elderly couple travelling to the United States. The husband and wife were placed on different flights to separate destinations on different dates. (Representational image)(AFP)

Dushyant Arora took to X (formerly Twitter) to narrate what happened with his partner's parents, both of whom are heart patients. The elderly couple was scheduled to fly to Newark, New Jersey on Wednesday. Arora said when they tried to check in the previous night, they found out that Air India had "unilaterally" changed their tickets.

Sharing the details of what went wrong for his partner's parents, Arora said the mother and father were put on separate flights.

"One flight to depart on one day and the second on another," he said, adding that Air India changed the father's destination to New York, instead of Newark. The mother's destination remained Newark.

Arora said the couple found about the changes in their flights only when they tried to check in.

"No one even bothered to call,"

"They had to cancel their tickets- mothers first time flying abroad- she doesnt want to fly alone. Just imagine."

Take a look at the post here:

Air India responded to the X user, saying that it has processed a full refund as asked for by the customer.

Dear Sir, please be assured that we never intend to disrupt our customers' travel plans and regret that this situation occurred. We have just spoken with the primary customer booked in the PNR and have processed a full refund as per their request, the airline said.

The X user, dissatisfied with Air India's response, said the elderly couple should instead be put on another flight together.

What about their anguish and the differential they will have to pay now if they want to fly? You should be putting them on another flight - same flight- same and correct destination- same day- since that needs to be spelt out, Arora said.
UK PM Rishi Sunak is facing a wave of fury on social media over his X post urging people to buy British. In his post, he emphasises how Brits shouldnt be reliant on foreign food and instead opt for local produce. People posted varied responses, from sharing hilarious replies to pointing out the impact of Brexit on farming and trade. People shared varied reactions to UK PM Rishi Sunak's 'Buy British' X post. (AFP)

We shouldnt be reliant on foreign food. Buy British, Rishi Sunak posted on X. An X user re-shared the post and shared, Babe, wake up, the Brits are starting a Swadeshi Movement. The Swadeshi Movement was a powerful act of self-reliance born in 1905 in India. It focused on boycotting foreign goods and promoting domestic products. During the movement, among other things, people burned foreign clothes and embraced khadi - a symbol of self-sufficiency.

Take a look at the post here:

An X user's reaction to UK PM Rishi Sunak's 'Buy British' post. (X/@chippdnailss)

What did other X users say about this post?

Why did you make it harder for farmers to supply it then, genius?, asked an individual.

Another joined, Your govt has ensured British farming is in crisis! Youve allowed foreign imports to crush British food, removed our Labour supply and subsidies, put trade barriers in the way and paid us to plant flowers!

A third posted, Running out of things to say now, this is pathetic.

A fourth wrote, So, seasonal food only then? Looking forward to Winter in that case.

Food critic Jay Rayner also joined and shared a strong-worded response, Where to b****y start? There isn't enough British food to buy because the crass, malformed, malignant clown-show of Brexit that you promoted, has undermined food production, courtesy of ill-thought out subsidies. Plus, Brexit-driven border controls have stymied imports.

Food suppliers warned against the new post-Brexit border checks earlier this year, reported the Mirror. They said that this new policy would not only increase food prices but also reduce shoppers' choices.

What are your thoughts on this X post by UK PM Rishi Sunak?
By Lucila Sigal Argentine play explores challenges of prison life for female and trans inmates

BUENOS AIRES, - "The past haunts you and the future never arrives" six actors sing on stage in "The Days Out There", an Argentine musical that explores the lives of female and transgender inmates during and after their time in jail.

The play, by 47-year-old writer and director Lola Arias, a winner of the prestigious International Ibsen Award, is heading to Europe at the end of June. It's part of a wider project with companion film "Reas" that arose from a workshop Arias gave in a women's prison.

It is acted by the female and transgender former inmates themselves, who look back at their time in jail and the challenges of adapting to life outside. They were jailed for crimes including fraud, robbery, drug trafficking and prostitution.

For Arias, prisons may not always be the best solution.

"Many times prison is simply a storage space for people who are excluded from society," she said in an interview.

"That is part of what the film and the play tell in their ways because they question the need for prisons, why prisons exist and how we could imagine a different justice system."

The director wanted to look at the bonds of solidarity built up in prison, moving away from traditional male-centered stories of violence in jail.

She said she also chose to focus on women and transgender inmates because of the unique "gender problems" they faced.

"Trans women who engage in sex work are detained without reason by police and are left in police stations for days. Trans men are also often treated with suspicion," she said.

The protagonists tell their stories through song and dance, incorporating rock, cumbia and bachata music.

Ignacio Rodriguez, a trans man who was jailed for nine years, said the project had been life-changing, giving him a reason to build towards the future.

"That is what we want to share and transmit: empathy, fellowship, companionship, love, despite all that one may go through," said Rodriguez, who formed a rock band and began studying law in prison.

Yoseli Arias, 28, who was in prison for over four years, said in an interview in the theater dressing-room, with her baby nearby, that she hoped the play would spur thought about what prison life was really like.

"It is a story told by ourselves, of our own life and experience and of what we would like the future to look like: just to be treated like ordinary people."

"The Days Out There" will be showing at two dozen theaters around Europe starting in Avignon, France.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
By Lucila Sigal Argentine play explores challenges of prison life for female and trans inmates

BUENOS AIRES - "The past haunts you and the future never arrives" six actors sing on stage in "The Days Out There", an Argentine musical that explores the lives of female and transgender inmates during and after their time in jail.

The play, by 47-year-old writer and director Lola Arias, a winner of the prestigious International Ibsen Award, is heading to Europe at the end of June. It's part of a wider project with companion film "Reas" that arose from a workshop Arias gave in a women's prison.

It is acted by the female and transgender former inmates themselves, who look back at their time in jail and the challenges of adapting to life outside. They were jailed for crimes including fraud, robbery, drug trafficking and prostitution.

For Arias, prisons may not always be the best solution.

"Many times prison is simply a storage space for people who are excluded from society," she said in an interview.

"That is part of what the film and the play tell in their ways because they question the need for prisons, why prisons exist and how we could imagine a different justice system."

The director wanted to look at the bonds of solidarity built up in prison, moving away from traditional male-centered stories of violence in jail.

She said she also chose to focus on women and transgender inmates because of the unique "gender problems" they faced.

"Trans women who engage in sex work are detained without reason by police and are left in police stations for days. Trans men are also often treated with suspicion," she said.

The protagonists tell their stories through song and dance, incorporating rock, cumbia and bachata music.

Ignacio Rodriguez, a trans man who was jailed for nine years, said the project had been life-changing, giving him a reason to build towards the future.

"That is what we want to share and transmit: empathy, fellowship, companionship, love, despite all that one may go through," said Rodriguez, who formed a rock band and began studying law in prison.

Yoseli Arias, 28, who was in prison for over four years, said in an interview in the theater dressing-room, with her baby nearby, that she hoped the play would spur thought about what prison life was really like.

"It is a story told by ourselves, of our own life and experience and of what we would like the future to look like: just to be treated like ordinary people."

"The Days Out There" will be showing at two dozen theaters around Europe starting in Avignon, France.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
New Delhi, The Trinamool Congress on Wednesday claimed that the Australian Deputy High Commissioner was recommended against meeting three West Bengal ministers and accused the Centre of creating hindrance in the state getting foreign investment. Australian Dy high Commissioner recommended against meeting Bengal ministers, alleges TMC

At a press conference here, TMC Rajya Sabha member Saket Gokhale said the Oceania division of Ministry of External Affairs recommended against Deputy High Commissioner Nicholas McCaffrey meeting West Bengal Industry and Commerce Minister Shashi Panja, IT Minister Babul Supriyo, and Agriculture Minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay.

"The government of West Bengal received communication from the Australian High Commission that the Deputy High Commissioner would be visiting the state and he had sought meetings with three ministers. Following this, there was a communication from the MEA's Oceania division handling the Oceania region that the ministry does not recommend that the Australian Deputy High Commissioner meet the three state ministers," he said.

"The question here is very simple. What problem does the NDA government have if a diplomat representing his country in India has a meeting with cabinet ministers in one of the states of India?" Gokhale asked.

According to sources, while a 'no objection' was given to the Australian Deputy High Commissioner to meet Dilip Ghosh, Sukanta Majumdar, Derek O'Brien, and Jawhar Sircar, they recommended against meeting the state ministers.

Gokhale said the issue will be discussed with other INDIA parties and raised in Parliament.

He also claimed that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has been denied permission for visits abroad on more than one occasion.

"The Ministry of External Affairs seems to have a double face when it comes to foreign relations of the country and the states of India... This has happened with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, where on several occasions she has been invited in a foreign country to address a business summit or for a program and the Ministry of External Affairs has refused to give protocol clearance," Gokhale said.

Fellow Rajya Sabha member of the party Sagarika Ghose said Banerjee has been stopped thrice from visiting abroad.

"Mamata Banerjee was stopped three times from travelling abroad. This is fundamental assault on federal structure. The mandate is not for autocracy anymore..." she said.

The TMC leaders also demanded a probe in the alleged stock market manipulation through exit polls.

"This is a stock market manipulation scam by BJP. If it is not investigated, it's a disservice to the people of India. We stand for protection of the Indian investor," Gokhale said.

The TMC MPs said the issue will be raised in the upcoming Parliament session as well.

A delegation of Trinamool Congress MPs met officials of the Securities and Exchange Board of India here on Tuesday and demanded a probe into the alleged stock market manipulation following exit polls earlier this month.

Similar allegations have also been made by Congress and other INDIA bloc parties, who have claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were "directly involved" in the alleged "stock market scam" with retail investors losing 30 lakh crore due to the market crashing after the Lok Sabha poll result earlier this month.

The BJP has dismissed the charges as "baseless".

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Ottawa on Wednesday listed Iran's Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist entity while calling on Canadians in the Islamic country to leave. The terrorism listing bars members of the Guards from entering Canada and Canadians from having any dealings with individual members or the group(File)

"Our government has made the decision to list the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code," Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc told a news conference.

Flanked by Canada's foreign and justice ministers, he accused the Iranian regime of "support for terrorism" and "having consistently displayed disregard for human rights both inside and outside of Iran, as well as a willingness to destabilize the international rules-based order."

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, noting that Ottawa broke off diplomatic ties with Tehran in 2012, urged Canadians against travel to Iran.

"For those who are in Iran right now. It's time to come back home," she said.

The terrorism listing bars members of the Guards from entering Canada and Canadians from having any dealings with individual members or the group. Any assets the Guards or its members hold in Canada may also be seized.

Iranian expats and families of the victims of Flight PS752, which was downed by Iran shortly after takeoff from Tehran in January 2020, killing all 176 passengers and crew, including 85 Canadian citizens and permanent residents, have long pressed Ottawa to designate the militia as a terrorist entity.

MPs last month unanimously voted to do so.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's administration had, until now, expressed a reluctance, explaining that a terror listing could be too broad and inadvertently impact Iranians in Canada opposed to the regime.

- 'A huge step forward' -

Kourosh Doustshenas, speaking on behalf of the families of Flight PS752 victims, welcomed the Guards' terrorism listing, calling it "a huge step forward in the search for justice for everyone who has been a victim of this organization."

Canada's blacklist includes nearly 80 entities such as Al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, the Taliban, the Islamic State group and the Proud Boys, a North American neo-fascist militant group.

Ottawa has previously listed the Quds Force, a branch of the Guards, as a terrorist entity, and in 2022 permanently denied entry to more than 10,000 Iranian officials, including members of the Guards.

The United States listed the Guards as a foreign terrorist organization in April 2019.

Earlier this month, the European Union also sanctioned the Guards for allegedly supplying drones to Russia and its allies in the Middle East.

The decision to add the Guards to Canada's terror list comes amid tensions between Ottawa and Tehran. Canada and other nations have sued Iran at the International Court of Justice over the downing of Flight PS752.

Tehran has claimed a missile strike on the aircraft was carried out by mistake.

Ahead of the press conference, Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland described the Iran regime as "brutal, repressive, theocratic and misogynist."

amc/bfm
Toronto: Canadas House of Commons observed a moment of silence on Tuesday to mark the first anniversary of the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The day also witnessed a large protest in front of Indias consulate in Vancouver, which featured, among other posters, those showing the person considered the mastermind of the bombing of Air India flight 182 in June 1985, the Kanishka, the worst incident of terrorism in Canadian history. Pro-Khalistan protesters gathered in front of Indias consulate in Vancouver, Canada on Tuesday. (Supplied photo)

The observation in the House over the assassination of Nijjar, who was killed in Surrey, British Columbia on June 18 last year, was announced by Speaker Greg Fergus following an agreement on it across party lines.

Public perception of India in Canada deteriorated in past year over Nijjar killing: Survey

Pro-Khalistan elements also marked the day, as many gathered in front of Indias consulate in Vancouver to protest the killing of Nijjar a year ago.

Indian ministers and diplomats who will escape Canadian justice will certainly face Khalsa justice as pro-Khalistan Sikhs will Haunt, Hunt and Hold killers of Nijjar responsible under the international laws, Sikhs for Justice general-counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun,said.

You can hide behind the diplomatic immunity for some time, but cannot be protected for lifetime, he added.

He also called for a boycott of Air India from June 23. That date marks the 39th anniversary of the Kanishka bombing by Khalistani terrorists. The terror attack claimed 329 lives, including those of 86 children and is observed in Canada as the National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism.

On display at the protest in front of the Vancouver consulate were posters with the image of Talwinder Singh Parmar, who is considered the mastermind of the terror attack.

Pannun had called for a similar boycott in November last year but that had little impact on the airlines services from Canada.

In a post on X, the Indian consulate referred to that tragedy describing it as one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation.

It added, India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat.

Nijjars murder has caused relations between India and Canada to crater, after Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus statement in the House of Commons on September 18 last year that there were credible allegations of a potential link between Indian agents and the killing. In May this year, four Indian nationals were arrested in connection with the crime. Canadian law enforcement has yet to provide details of any Indian involvement but have said those investigations are ongoing.

Akal Takht jathedar terms Nijjar martyr, hails Trudeaus stance

India had dismissed Trudeaus allegations as absurd and motivated last September.

Nijjar was considered a terrorist by India but none of the charges against him were tested in a Canadian court.
The Philippine military said Wednesday that the Chinese coast guard rammed and boarded Filipino navy boats and seized their guns in the South China Sea this week in a confrontation that saw a Filipino sailor lose a thumb. The Chinese coast guard later "deliberately punctured" the Filipino boats, Philippine said. (Reuters/File)

The incident off Second Thomas Shoal, which hosts a tiny Philippine garrison stationed on a deliberately beached old warship, is the latest in a series of escalating confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships in recent months as Beijing steps up efforts to push its claims to the disputed area.

"The Chinese Coast Guard personnel illegally embarked on our RHIBS (rigid-hulled inflatable boats)," Rear Admiral Alfonso Torres told reporters in the first official Filipino account of the confrontation.

"They got some (guns)," said Torres, adding the firearms had been stored in the boats crewed by Filipino sailors, who were under orders not to display their weapons in Monday's confrontation.

The Chinese coast guard later "deliberately punctured" the Filipino boats, he said.

Philippine military chief General Romeo Brawner alleged the Chinese boarders were armed with swords, spears, and knives.

"This is the first time that we saw the Chinese coast guard carry bolos (a type of single-edged sword), spears, and knives. Our troops had none of those," Brawner told reporters.

Brawner said the seized guns were intended for Filipino troops manning the BRP Sierra Madre warship on the shoal.

"We fought back with our bare hands," Brawner said, noting the Filipino sailors were "outnumbered" by the Chinese coast guard contingent that comprised eight boats.

Illegally rammed

The Second Thomas Shoal lies about 200 kilometres (120 miles) from the western Philippine island of Palawan and more than 1,000 kilometres from China's nearest major landmass, Hainan island.

Read Here: China coast guard says Philippine supply ship bumped Chinese ship in South China Sea

Beijing claims almost the entirety of the South China Sea, brushing aside competing claims from several Southeast Asian nations including the Philippines and an international ruling that its stance has no legal basis.

It deploys coast guard and other boats to patrol the waters and has turned several reefs into militarised artificial islands.

It has in recent months stepped up moves against Philippine vessels in the area around Second Thomas Shoal.

Speaking to reporters from Palawan -- the major land mass closest to the shoal -- Torres said the latest confrontation began when one of the Filipino boats was "illegally rammed" at "high speed" by a Chinese coast guard boat.

A Filipino Naval Special Operations Group member aboard the Filipino boat lost a thumb when the Chinese vessel landed on top of the bow, he added.

Brawner also flew to Palawan on Wednesday to visit the injured soldier, the military said.
A new biography about the Beckhams has made explosive claims about Meghan Markle's perception of her social standing compared to Victoria Beckham. The biography, The House of Beckham, by celebrity biographer Tom Bower, says deluded Meghan thought she was higher in social ranking than former Spice Girl. Biography The House of Beckham claims Meghan Markle thought she was socially superior to Victoria Beckham (victoriabeckham/Instagram, Angela Weiss / AFP)

Bower explores the dynamics between the Beckhams, Prince Harry, and Meghan, asserting that the Duchess of Sussex initially put on airs of superiority around Victoria.

In Meghans celebrity world, ranking depended on wealth and fame, Bower wrote. As a seasoned operator, Meghan deluded herself that her status in the Royal family placed her above Victoria in the social pecking order.

He elaborates, She was irritated to discover that the Beckhams had considerably more wealth than herself. They owned five homes, had constant access to private jets, invitations to sail on yachts and much more money. And she was soon to be a duchess.

ALSO READ| Is Meghan Markle actually trying to steal Kate Middleton's spotlight at Trooping the Colour? Experts weigh in

The House of Beckham exposes Meghan Markles supposed high-ranking delusion

Despite Meghan's alleged internal ranking, the Beckhams reportedly made concerted efforts to welcome her, respecting their long-standing friendship with Prince Harry and Prince William.

Bower claims that once Meghan moved to Kensington Palace, a member of Victorias staff offered Harrys fiancee advice on the best facials and hairdressing in London.

Plus, the Suits star is said to have asked Victoria for complimentary clothes and handbags, though the Palace reportedly denied this request due to its strict rules against accepting such gifts.

During a private trip to Los Angeles, Meghan allegedly took advantage of the Beckhams' hospitality, staying at their Beverly Hills residence. Her excuse was to avoid the paparazzi. At no cost, all her needs were secretly provided for by the Beckhams staff, Bower wrote.

If there was a hint that Meghan was taking advantage of her new status, the Beckhams pushed their gripes aside.

However, Only after The Sun reported how Victoria had given Meghan make-up advice did the relationship between the two ambitious women crash, Meghan was allegedly outraged by The Sun's report.

ALSO READ| David Beckhams guide to celebrity

Harry was ordered to complain to David Beckham, Bower wrote, detailing how Prince Harry confronted Beckham about the leak. David then questioned Victoria about how the information had reached the tabloid.

The former Spice Girl denied any involvement with The Sun and blamed a beautician although the culprit was probably a boastful publicist employed by Beckham.

Also former friend of Meghanhas claimed that the Duchess of Sussex squealed when she saw Victoria at an event back in 2013
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said President Joe Biden is withholding weapons amid the war against Hamas as his country is fighting for its life, an accusation the White House denied. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hasnt specified which weapons or ammunition supposedly had been withheld by the US, Israels biggest arms supplier(AP)

In an English-language video released Tuesday, Netanyahu said he told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit to Israel last week that he appreciates Washingtons support but that its inconceivable that weapons or ammunition have been held back in the past few months.

That video angered the White House and prompted the Biden administration to cancel a high-level meeting with Israel about Iran that was scheduled for Thursday, Axios reported, citing two US officials. US envoy Amos Hochstein delivered the administrations frustration directly in a meeting with Netanyahu, according to the report.

US officials didnt immediately respond to a question about the meeting. Earlier, the White House denied that any weapons are being withheld beyond a previous decision to hold back on the delivery of some bombs. We genuinely do not know what hes talking about, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. We just dont.

The Biden administration has become increasingly critical of Israels offensive in the Gaza Strip to root out Hamas, the group designated a terrorist organization by the US and European Union that killed more than 1,200 Israelis and abducted more than 250 on October 7, 2023 triggering the ongoing war. More than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, which doesnt differentiate between combatants and civilians.

Biden previously held back a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to signal his frustration and said last month that he would halt additional shipments of offensive weapons if the country launched a full-scale ground invasion of Rafah. Israeli tanks were reported to have reached the centre of the town May 28, in what the military called a limited and precise set of operations.

Blinken told reporters Tuesday that aside from that one shipment, everything else is moving as it normally would move.

Netanyahu didnt specify which weapons or ammunition supposedly had been withheld by the US, Israels biggest arms supplier. The Israeli leader added that Blinken assured him the administration is working day and night to remove any bottlenecks. His office didnt respond to follow-up questions.

ALSO READ: Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu dissolves influential war Cabinet after key partner bolted from government

Netanyahu, whos scheduled to address the US Congress in late July, invoked the World War II plea of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Churchill told the United States: Give us the tools, well do the job, Netanyahu said. And I say, give us the tools and well finish the job a lot faster.

Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, who has urged a pause in the transfer of offensive weapons to Israel until it agrees to conditions on their use, scoffed in an interview Tuesday that Netanyahu wants to come here and pretend hes Winston Churchill  and he is no Winston Churchill.

US officials have said privately that Israel has enough weapons for its Rafah campaign, as well as additional stockpiles if the conflict in the north with Hezbollah escalates.

Two key Democratic holdouts in the House and Senate signed off on a major arms sale to Israel, including 50 F-15 fighter jets valued at more than $18 billion, following pressure from the White House and pro-Israel advocates, the Washington Post reported on Tuesday.
Israel's top army spokesman said Wednesday that Hamas cannot be defeated as an ideology, prompting the government to quickly re-assert that it remains committed to the Palestinian militant group's destruction. A smoke plume billows during Israeli bombardment(AFP)

More than eight months of war, sparked by Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, have failed to oust the Islamist militants from the Palestinian territory but have brought widespread devastation.

"Hamas is an ideology, we cannot eliminate an ideology," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told Israel's Channel 13 broadcaster.

"To say that we are going to make Hamas disappear is to throw sand in people's eyes. If we don't provide an alternative, in the end, we will have Hamas."

His comments were quickly rebuffed by the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose cabinet has stated its Gaza offensive will not end until Hamas is defeated.

"The political and security cabinet headed by Prime Minister Netanyahu defined as one of the goals of the war the destruction of Hamas' military and governmental capabilities," his office said in a statement.

"The IDF is of course committed to this."

The October 7 attack that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

The militants also seized 251 hostages. Of these, 116 remain in Gaza, although the army says 41 are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive aimed at eliminating Hamas has killed at least 37,396 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.
ABUJA, Nigeria  Jihadi fighters who had long operated in Africas volatile Sahel region have settled in northwestern Nigeria after crossing from neighboring Benin, a report said Wednesday, the latest trend in the militants' movements to wealthier West African coastal nations. Jihadis from Africas Sahel have crossed into Nigerias north, a new report says. A lot is at stake

The extremists believed to be linked to al-Qaida have in the last year crossed over from Benins hard-hit northern region and settled in Kainji Lake National Park, one of Nigerias largest, where other armed groups have also gained access, according to the report by the Clingendael Institute think tank, which has done extensive research in the Sahel.

Residents close to the park told The Associated Press that the facility, which holds one of West Africas fast-declining lion populations, has been closed for more than a year because of security threats from armed groups attacking neighboring villages and roads.

Before, it was like a tourism center now, people find it difficult to pass through there, said John Yerima, who lives near the park in New Bussa town. You cannot enter that road now. It is dangerous, seriously.

The security situation at the 5,300-square kilometer park in Niger state and along the nearby border with Benin is getting out of hand and is a much more explosive situation than we had anticipated, said Kars de Bruijne, one of the authors of the report and a senior research fellow at the institute.

The sustained presence of the armed groups in the park is the first sign of a connection between Nigeria's homegrown extremists that have launched a decadelong insurgency in its northern region, and al-Qaida-linked militants from the Sahel, the vast arid expanse south of the Sahara Desert, Bruijne said.

Their presence offers an opportunity for the extremists to claim large-scale success in both countries, already wracked by deadly attacks in recent years, he added.

Known as a global hot spot for violent extremism, the Sahel regions worsening security crisis comes as military coups are toppling democratic governments. As the military governments struggle to contain the violence, they are increasingly severing security with traditional partners France and the United States and turning to Russia for support.

In northwest Nigeria, security analysts have in the past warned that the regions remote territories, where the government is largely absent but have rich mineral resources and high poverty levels, present an opportunity for expansion for jihadi groups that had operated mainly in the Sahel, as well as the Islamic State group, whose fighters hold sway in the Lake Chad basin.

A link between Lake Chad and the Sahel is a major opportunity for al-Qaida and the Islamic State to boast about their profiles as leaders of global jihad, the report said.

There are also concerns from conservationists that the presence of armed groups in the park could further threaten the remaining lions whose populations have declined as a result of poaching and climate change. They say the park and most protected wildlife areas in Nigeria are poorly patrolled, making them easy targets for armed groups.

The security situation has become top of the list when it comes to the concerns about the lion populations in Nigeria, said Stella Egbe, senior conservation manager at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation.

The Nigerian military often conducts aerial bombardments and deploys its personnel in criminal hideouts in the conflict-battered northern region. However, security forces  fatigued by the decadelong war in the northeast  are still outnumbered and outgunned in those remote villages, and the root causes of the conflict such as poverty remain.

The Clingendael report said it is unclear what the motive of the Sahel extremists in the park is and what their relationship with other armed groups there will be. Security analysts say it offers opportunities for logistics and more influence amid booming illegal trade across the porous border.

The Sahelian jihadis potentially can try to use northwestern Nigeria as a place for fundraising, for logistics and to try to influence the jihadi groups there as part of their own competition," said James Barnett, a fellow at the Hudson Institute whose works in northwestern Nigeria were cited in the report.

Across many villages in Nigeria's northwest, banditry  not jihadi fighters  remains the major security threat, Barnett said.

The bandits have on a few occasions in the past collaborated with jihadi fighters as two separate groups in carrying out attacks. But even in rare collaborations, he said, there can be very deadly consequences.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
A former royal correspondent has praised Kate Middelton over her return to the royal spotlight during Trooping the Colour. At the event, the Princess of Wales made her first public appearance since her cancer diagnosis. Kate Middleton hailed for her courage and great dignity during Trooping the Colour appearance (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) (AFP)

When asked by GBN America host Nana Akua about Kates return, Michael Cole hailed her "courage" for stepping out despite her health woes. "Courage is grace under pressure, it's often defined as that, and I think we saw that with Kate on Saturday, Cole said.

Great dignity, great elegance and with great stoicism

"My goodness, it's harrowing enough coping with cancer for anybody, but for somebody to have to do that, knowing that the eyes of the world are upon her, a thousand lenses, looking at her at the same time as she's undergoing preventative chemotherapy for the undisclosed cancer from which she is suffering - what an ordeal, Cole added.

Cole also pointed out how well the princess looked as she donned a black and white Jenny Packham dress, with a matching hat. "Didn't she carry it off with great dignity, great elegance and with great stoicism? I come back to the word courage because it's not easy to do while looking so brilliantly beautiful, Cole said.

"If you and I went to a Hollywood casting agency and said, please cast us a Princess, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly not being available, they'd come up with somebody like Kate, the Princess of Wales, Cole added. "And in everything she does, she carries it off with great aplomb."

Previously, a source told US Weekly that Kate may never come back in the role that people saw her in before as she battles cancer. Despite her public appearance at Trooping the Colour, it remains unclear if she will be to get back to her royal duties like before, when she was front and centre on engagements with her husband, Prince William.
On Tuesday, Yellowstone star Kevin Costner told People that Prince William once told him that his late mother, Princess Diana, kind of fancied him. Princess Diana, "kind of fancied" the Yellowstone star(File)

The meeting was arranged while Costner was in England a few years back, and the invitation came as a surprise to the Oscar-winning actor.

I happened to be in England, and I got this message that the prince would love to talk, and I said, 'What?'... and then I went, 'Okay,'  Costner told People.

The 69-year-old star described the encounter with the Prince of Wales as very sweet and such fond memories of who he was, how I was approached and what we talked about.

ALSO READ| Meghan Markle and Prince Harry extend olive branch to Kate Middleton as Duchess' heart goes out to

The California native recalls, We met in this room, and it was just us. He walked up, and we shook hands... The first line out of his mouth was, You know, my mom kind of fancied you.  Although Costner is discreet about the details of their conversation, he emphasizes the positive impression Prince William left on him, calling him quite a young man.

Ill never say what we talked about but it was a very sweet thing. Ive had such fond memories of who he [William] was  and what we talked about.

Meeting with Prince William was not Costners first connection to the British royal family

Years earlier, he had been in talks with Princess Diana about a potential sequel to his 1992 hit film, The Bodyguard, which starred Whitney Houston.

Costner credits Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, with facilitating the introduction to Princess Diana.

There was a moment that that was really flying down the tracks, very quietly, because it's how I operate, Costner says about the project. He praised Sarah for her generosity in setting up the meeting, saying, It was so sweet. Sarah was the one that set this up. Sarah was very cool... when she could have been going, 'Well, Im a princess too. What about me?' She didnt do that at all. Diana and I began to talk.

ALSO READ| Will Kevin Costern return to Yellowstone after his last year's exit? Actor responds

The veteran actor went on saying, The studio liked the idea of doing a Bodyguard 2 [with Princess Diana] in the same kind of capacity as Whitney.

I just remember her [Diana] being incredibly sweet on the phone when she asked the questions. She goes, Are we going to have like a kissing scene? But she said it in a very respectful  she was a little nervous because I think her life was very governed.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a "strategic partnership treaty" following their talks in Pyongyang on Wednesday, Russian state media reported. Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (File photo)

Putin signalled earlier the two nations had prepared a document that would "form the basis" of their relations for years to come but did not provide any detail.

"Russia and North Korea have signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty," the RIA Novosti news agency reported, citing a correspondent.

The two leaders also exchanged gifts during the visit, with Kim receiving a tea set and a luxury Russian-made Aurus car, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said.

Ushakov did not say what gifts Putin received, but hinted they were related to Putin's image, "including busts".

The Kremlin said on Monday the treaty would replace previous bilateral documents and declarations signed in 1961, 2000 and 2001.

Moscow and Pyongyang's ties have sparked concern in the West, which believes Russia has been procuring and using North Korean weaponry to wage its military offensive in Ukraine.

Kim said earlier relations with Russia had reached a new high point, and that Putin's visit would strengthen their countries' "ardent friendship".
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in North Korea in the early hours, marking his first visit to the capital in 24 years. This visit is expected to reshape Russia-North Korea relations, as both nations face international isolation. Russian President Vladimir Putin is welcomed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upon his arrival at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this image released by the Korean Central News Agency June 19, 2024. (KCNA via REUTERS)

Despite the late hour, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un greeted Putin on the tarmac with a hug on the red carpet. The two leaders shook hands, embraced, and conversed beside Putin's plane before travelling together in the same limousine to the Kumsusan State Guest House.

ALSO READ- View: Ukraine war may erupt again as G7 backs Zelensky with hardware

Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea: What's on agenda?

 According to Russian media reports, the schedule begins with an official welcoming ceremony at noon local time.

 Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un will have a 90-minute one-on-one meeting, followed by informal talks during a stroll around Kim's residence and a tea party.

 A photo op session will be held for both leaders.

 The day includes a gala concert, a state reception, and an honour guard ceremony.

 The visit will conclude with the signing of several joint documents and a press conference.

ALSO READ- South Korea fires warning shots after North Korean soldiers cross border

What is significance of Putin-Kim Jong meeting?

Russia has leveraged its growing relationship with North Korea to challenge Washington, while North Korea, under heavy sanctions, has gained political backing and promises of economic support and trade from Moscow. Putin visit to North Korea is going to further strengthen the ties.

How US reacted to Putin's visit to North Korea

The US expressed serious concerns about the growing cooperation between Russia and North Korea. White House Press Secretary Jean-Pierre said this partnership threatens peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

"Deepening cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is a trend that should be of great concern to anyone interested in maintaining peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula, upholding the global non-proliferation regime, abiding by the UN Security Council resolutions and supporting the people of Ukraine as they defend their freedom," Jean-Pierre said.

ALSO READ- Russia's Vladimir Putin promises immediate ceasefire in Ukraine if

The Biden administration has been warning for some time that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is supplying weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine.

"We don't believe any country should give Mr. Putin a platform to promote the war of aggression that we're currently seeing in Ukraine," Jean-Pierre said.
A former royal correspondent has blasted Meghan Markle for "inviting comparison" between herself and Kate Middleton. Michael Cole has criticised the Duchess of Sussex for promoting her latest lifestyle products just hours before Kate made her first public appearance since her cancer diagnosis, at Trooping the Colour. Meghan Markle blasted for inviting comparison with Kate Middelton (AP Photo/Sunday Alamba, AP Photo/Kin Cheung, Pool, File)

Nacho Figueras, an Argentinian polo player close to Prince Harry and Meghan, promoted the Duchess latest products on Instagram just hours before the event began. Figueras shared images of raspberry jam and dog biscuits, which will be available from Meghan's lifestyle brand  American Riviera Orchard.

In everything that Meghan Markle does, she invites a comparison with the Princess of Wales

Cole told GBN America host Nana Akua that Meghan "invites comparison" with Kate with such moves, something that "doesn't come off very well. "Kate was a child of a middle-class family. She wasn't trained to be a princess of the royal blood. And she wasn't, of course, ever an actress, Cole said. "And in everything that Meghan Markle does, she invites a comparison with the Princess of Wales. And I'm afraid in that comparison, Meghan Markle doesn't come off very well."

Akua said that it was "very odd" of Meghans friend to launch the products on this day, and suggested that maybe Meghan wanted to "overshadow" Kate's appearance at Trooping the Colour.

"Are they so desperate for cash that they have to come out and bring out a retail line of jams and other things which we can all do without? It's a mystery to me, Cole stated.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams previously told The Sun that although Harry might have had some regrets about not being able to attend Trooping the Colour, Meghan possibly would not care. The two were snubbed from the annual event for the second time in a row. I think Meghan would be indifferent to a ceremony like Trooping the Colour quite frankly, he said.

I have no idea whether she would or wouldnt actually watch it, but I dont think it would mean a great deal to her, he added. If it had done, she would have managed to carve a position within the Royal Family where she could have been of use.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un promised full support for Russia's war in Ukraine, as he met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang on Wednesday in a bid to expand their economic and military cooperation and display a united front against Washington. Russian President Vladimir Putin is welcomed by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upon his arrival at an airport in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this image released by the Korean Central News Agency June 19, 2024. (Reuters)

Putin thanked Kim for the support and said the two countries would sign an agreement to boost their partnership as both fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the U.S. and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

Also read | Putin to visit North Korea for talks with Kim Jong Un, a first in 24 years

Putins visit to Pyongyang comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which North Korea provides Russia with badly needed munitions to fuel Moscow's war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kims nuclear weapons and missile program.

Putin said in remarks carried by Russian state Tass and RIA Novosti news agencies that the new fundamental document will form the basis of our ties for a long perspective.

North Korea is under heavy U.N. Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Also read: South Korea fires warning shots after North Korean soldiers cross border

Putin, making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, thanked North Korea for consistent and unchanging support of the Russian policies, including in the Ukrainian direction.

Putin hailed ties that date back to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of World War II, and Moscows support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

Our pilots flew tens of thousands of combat missions during the liberation war of 1950-53, Putin said.

Kim said that relations between Moscow and Pyongyang are at a new high, even compared to Soviet times, and voiced hope that the fiery friendship of the two countries will grow more monolithic, according to Russian state news agencies.

Kim was quoted vowing his countrys full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity.

Kim has used similar language in the past, consistently saying that the North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russia's interests and blaming the crisis on the U.S.-led Wests hegemonic policy.

It wasnt immediately clear what support from North Korea might look like.

He also hailed Russias important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.

Before the talks, Kim welcomed Putin with a lavish ceremony in the citys main square, where he introduced key members of the North Korean leadership including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and the leader's powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong.

Huge crowds lined up on the streets to greet Putins motorcade, chanting Welcome Putin and waving flowers and North Korean and Russian flags.

Putin is being accompanied by several top officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Denis Mantrurov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, according to his foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov.

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U.S. and South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple U.N. Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Kims continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking U.S.-led efforts to impose fresh U.N. sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of U.N. sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine. U.S. and South Korean officials have said they are discussing options for a new mechanism for monitoring the North.

South Korean analysts say that Kim will likely seek stronger economic benefits and more advanced military technologies from Russia, although his more sensitive discussions with Putin arent likely to be made public.

While Kims military nuclear program now includes developmental intercontinental ballistic missiles that can potentially reach the U.S. mainland, he may need outside technology help to meaningfully advance his program further. There are already possible signs that Russia is assisting North Korean with technologies related to space rockets and military reconnaissance satellites, which Kim has described as crucial for monitoring South Korea and enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles.

The North may also seek to increase labour exports to Russia and other illicit activities to gain foreign currency in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas main spy agency. There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and further promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.

In Washington, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Putins visit to North Korea illustrates how Russia tries, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

North Korea is providing significant munitions to Russia ... and other weapons for use in Ukraine. Iran has been providing weaponry, including drones, that have been used against civilians and civilian infrastructure, Blinken told reporters following a meeting with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kims weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the United States, South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle. The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.
Prince Harry is homesick as he looks for a new residence in the UK, royal commentator Kinsey Schofield has said. I hear that Harry is both content with his new lifestyle and homesick, the host of the To Di For Daily podcast told Fox News Digital. At present, the Duke of Sussex lives with his wife Meghan Markle, and children Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, in Montecito, California. Prince Harry homesick but Meghan Marke feels rejected by the UK' (Photo by Kola SULAIMON / AFP)(AFP)

It just depends on the day. Im sure Harry could get homesick, and we know that he is prone to wearing his heart on his sleeve, Schofield claimed. Meghan has likely permitted him to try to establish an additional residence in the UK if that will make him happy, but I doubt she has any desire to participate in the process or visit.

Schofield added that Harry wont make any drastic or financial moves until he settles his security issues.

Previously, King Charles former butler Grant Harrold told New York Post that the Duke had been searching for properties in the UK, his home country. Its something that hes wanted and been thinking about. Now hes probably made the decision thats what he wants, Harrold said. Not having a home in the UK was probably a joint decision initially, but as time goes on, peoples views and decisions can change.

Youve only got one family, and this means hes suddenly realized that, Harrold added.

She feels rejected

Schofield said that despite Harrys homesickness, Meghan feels rejected by the United Kingdom. She feels rejected by the UK and that does not sit well with her, Schofield said. I dont even think she has any desire to win them over again. Meghan is totally focused on winning over the elite in Hollywood. With jam. And dog treats.

Meanwhile, both Charles and Kate Middleton are battling cancer, I dont think the family cares if [Harry] buys property in the UK. I think they are consumed with healing and loving one another right now, Schofield said.
Tuesday, June 18, marks a year since the Titan submersible tragedy shook the world. The submersible, on the way to the Titanic wreckage, mysteriously vanished. A five-day search found that the vessel had been destroyed and all of the five passengers had died. Titan tragedy 1 year on - no breakthrough, no justice, no lessons learnt (Paul Daly/The Canadian Press via AP, File)(AP)

A high-level investigation was immediately launched by the US Coast Guard. Disturbing details surfaced, and it was revealed that there were previous concerns over the Titans unconventional design. Warnings were allegedly ignored by OceanGate Expeditions CEO Stockton Rush in the days leading up to the tragedy.

The five deceased passengers were Rush, British billionaire Hamish Harding, French diver Paul-Henri Nargeolet, and Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood and his son, Suleman.

No breakthrough, no justice, and no lessons learnt

However, one year on, the world knows nothing about where the investigation stands. There has been no breakthrough, and the deceased passengers have not found justice. Most of them tragically lost their lives due to the carelessness of authorities.

Debris was discovered near the Titanics resting place days after the Titan disappeared. Following that discovery, it was officially declared that the submersible had suffered a catastrophic implosion.

The tragedy shattered the confidence of several explorers. In a recent interview with The Mirror, ocean explorer and adventurer Victor Vescovo said that Rush "ignored" the "collective experience" and kept diving the submersible even though it had an "inherently flawed design."

"The Marine Technical Society, MTS, wrote a letter to Stockton Rush imploring him to get the subclassed or else stop his operations. He ignored their great collective experience and kept diving into an inherently flawed design and operation, Vescovo said. "I mean, on their last trip to Titanic, they actually towed the submersible to the dive location on the open water. Who knows what kind of beating the sub took in the North Atlantic on the way there that increased the risk of significant hull damage."

One-year-anniversary of the Titan tragedy: where do things stand?

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, but it is certainly taking longer than expected. Last week, the US Coast Guard officials said that they would not be able to release the results of the investigation by the one-year anniversary of the tragedy. They added that it will take at least two more months before a public hearing to discuss the findings could be held.

Marine Board of Investigation Chair Jason Neubauer said that investigators "are working closely with our domestic and international partners to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident, according to CTV News. Neubauer further described the inquiry as a "complex and ongoing effort."

OceanGate, the company that owned the Titan, suspended its operations last July soon after the tragedy. A former adviser to OceanGate, David Concannon, said that he will mark the anniversary privately, along with a group of people who were involved with the company or the expeditions over the past few years. These people would include scientists, volunteers and mission specialists.

Richard Garriott, the president of The Explorers Club, of which Harding and Nargeolet were members, said last week, "Then, as now, it hit us on a personal level very deeply. The professional society is dedicated to research, exploration and resource conservation. Garriott added that a remembrance celebration for the victims of the tragedy will be held in Portugal this week, at the annual Global Exploration Summit.

The fake log transcript

A few days ago, it was revealed that the log transcript of communications between the Titan submersible and its mothership was completely fake. The transcript was released last year and surfaced on social media with the claim that the logbook detailed the final communication between the submersible and the mothership before the implosion.

The New York Times reported that the head of the US government team investigating the disaster believes the log is completely fake. No evidence was found by authorities to suggest that the passengers on the submersible had any clue about the disaster they were going to face, although the transcript suggested that the passengers were in a state of panic.

Will the tragedy stop deep-sea exploration?

The tragedy did shake the world, but it could not break the determination of deep-sea explorers. Many of them told The Associated Press that the worldwide community of explorers remain committed to continuing the missions. Garriott said, addressing this, Progress continues. I actually feel very comfortable and confident that we will now be able to proceed."

In fact, an Ohio billionaire and real estate investor named Larry Connor has decided to visit the Titanic wreckage to prove that the industry is safer now. He is planning to travel to the site in a submersible that carries two people, along with Triton Submarines co-founder Patrick Lahey.

Ocean explorer Vescovo, in his recent interview, stressed that stringent safety checks must be done after every dive and before the next to ensure that the craft is safe, and that is not used if there are significant safety concerns by those maintaining the vehicle." And never get into a submersible, aircraft, or any vehicle whose pilot is more afraid of failure than of dying," he added.
10 people are severely injured after a catastrophic failure in Syracuse, New York; firefighters pulled out victims from the angle of the house on Tuesday. Reportedly 20 people were inside. First responders work at the site of a house collapse due to a suspected gas explosion in Syracuse, New York, U.S., June 18, 2024. REUTERS/Caitlin Louisa Eddolls (REUTERS)

According to CNY Central's initial reports, between 10 and 20 people may have been in the house at the time of the tragedy. Authorities are searching for other people who could still be trapped there; it is the official statement.

Syracuse Fire Chief Michael Monds spoke more to the press telling them about the nature of injuries that some of the victims had suffered. Eight of the 10 are on advanced life support, while the other two are on basic life support, he stated. Were in a good spot right now. To know there were 13 people inside that have made it out: Thats remarkable.

Approximately 50 firefighters responded to the scene, engaging in what Chief Monds described as a prolonged rescue effort.

ALSO READ| 19-year-old USC student arrested after fatally stabbing a homeless man in Greek Row

Gas explosion or vehicle impact caused fatal collapse?

The specific nature of their injuries has not been disclosed. Among those transported to hospitals were children, although Chief Monds was unable to confirm how many or their ages. There are concerns that two more individuals could still be trapped within the wreckage.

The incident unfolded at approximately 4:06 p.m. on the 200 block of Carbon Street.

The cause of the collapse remains unclear, but initial reports suggest it may have been triggered by an inhouse gas explosion. Witnesses inside the house reported smelling gas just before an explosion occurred, and then the structure collapsed.

On the other hand, dispatch audio initially indicated that the collapse might have been caused by a runaway vehicle crashing into the garage of the structure, leading to multiple injuries.

Chief Monds also mentioned that a fire broke out at the rear of the house. When rescue crews first entered the severely damaged building, they found several individuals trapped inside a vehicle within the garage.

Syracuse fire official said there was a strong odor of gas coming out of the building.

Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene located in Syracuse's Northside neighbourhood. Carbon Street, where the incident took place, has been closed off between Oberst and John streets. Syracuse Police, Fire, and AMR (American Medical Response) are actively involved in the search and rescue efforts amidst the debris of the collapsed home.

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A local resident recounted to CNY Central how the explosion shook neighbouring houses and scattered ashes over the sidewalk, reminiscent of a volcanic eruption affecting the entire block.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul posted on X (formerly Twitter) following the collapse, New York State is offering assistance to emergency response teams on the ground and is ready to support in any way needed.

We are praying for all those impacted and their families.
A 19-year-old University of Southern California (USC) student, Ivan Gallegos, has been arrested on suspicion of murder following the fatal stabbing of a homeless man on the university's Greek Row. Ivan Gallegos was arrested on suspicion of murder.(LinkenIn)

The incident occurred after the victim allegedly broke into vehicles at the scene.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon involving a knife at approximately 8:15 p.m. on Monday in the 700 block of West 28th Street. According to an LAPD statement, The male victim was breaking into vehicles at the location when the suspect confronted and stabbed the victim.

Interim LAPD Chief Dominic Choi elaborated on the situation, explaining that Gallegos saw the homeless man breaking into his car in the rear parking lot of the fraternity house. During the confrontation, the man allegedly claimed to have a gun, and maybe for self-defence, Gallegos had to stab him.

Los Angeles Times reported that no firearm was recovered from the murder scene.

The homeless man, whose identity has not been released, was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Who is Ivan Gallegos?

Gallegos, a Los Angeles resident, remained at the scene and was taken into custody without incident. He has been identified as the suspect in the stabbing and has been booked on suspicion of murder. Authorities have set his bail at $2 million.

Last month, USC's Annenberg Media published a profile of Gallegos, highlighting him as an emerging musical artist and a student at the Marshall School of Business.

A report for Gallegos stated, Throughout his childhood, Ivan navigated the realities of both his parents involvement in gang activities, leading to their intermittent incarceration.

Despite growing up in an environment saturated with drugs, gangs and prostitution, he focused on music and sharpened his skills to become a multifaceted instrument and vocalist.

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A woman who manages the Delta Tau Delta fraternity told Eyewitness News that Gallegos is a USC student and fraternity member. The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that Gallegos was the individual arrested in connection with the incident.
Ahead of Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming address to Congress, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY, lambasted the Israeli Prime Minister as "war criminal" and accused him of having no respect for US law. AOC on X shared a video in which Netanyahu cane be heard targeting the Biden administration over inconceivable arms halt.(Getty Images via AFP)

Netanyahu has been invited by the House and Senate leaders to address Congress on July 24, despite growing disagreements in politics over Israel's military attacks on Hamas in Gaza.

The letter inviting the Israeli PM was signed by both GOP and Democratic leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson. According to them, the goal of the proposal is to "highlight America's solidarity with Israel."

However, some other members of the Congress, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, are not in favor of Netanyahu's address.

Taking to X, AOC shared a video in which Netanyahu can be heard targeting the Biden administration over inconceivable arms halt.

This comes as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Netanyahu in Jerusalem on May 1. The Israeli PM went on the record on Tuesday, saying that he had received assurances from Blinken that Washington would lift all limitations on arms deliveries to Israel.

I told Secretary Blinken it's inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel, he said.

Responding to the video, AOC chastised Netanyahu and said: This man should not be addressing Congress. He is a war criminal. And he certainly has no regard for US law, which is explicitly designed to prevent US weapons from facilitating human rights abuses.

She further demanded that his invitation should be revoked, adding that it shouldve never been sent in the 1st place.

Blinken and White House reject Netanyahu's statement

During a press conference in Washington, Blinken was asked to verify Netanyahu's remarks regarding their meeting. The top US ambassador insisted that only one shipment had been blocked, suggesting that the Israeli PM was overstating the US' move.

"I'm not going to talk about what we said in diplomatic conversations," he stated in response to another question regarding if Netanyahu was telling the truth.

When questioned about the Israeli PM's assertion during a news conference, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Tuesday rejected Netanyahu's claim.

We genuinely do not know what hes talking about. We just dont, she said.

Jean-Pierre further stressed that only one shipment of munitions was halted. We continue to have constructive conversations with the Israelis for the release of that particular shipment and dont have any updates on that. There are no other pauses or holds in place Everything else is moving in due process, she asserted.

Also Read: AOC says she wouldn't be surprised if Donald Trump threw her in jail if he is elected: This is his motto

Netizens react as AOC fiercely slammed Netanyahu

Meanwhile, AOC's post received mixed reactions from the X users, with some hitting back at her for calling Netanyahu a war criminal.

AOC should go back to bartending, one user wrote.

And you should be doing laundry and making sandwiches, another added.

To any member of the Jewish community seeing this post, remember that a vote for democrats this November is a vote for Hamas. We had peace in the Middle East under President Trump. Its time for change, The Persistence commented.

A fourth user quipped, Should I like this meme?
The White House has cancelled a major meeting between American and Israeli security officials in Washington, DC, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blasted the Biden administration for halting arms supply to Israel, according to a new report. US President Joe Biden and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. The White House cancelled the high-level talks to send a message to Netanyahu that such remarks against the Biden administration were not acceptable, Axios reported.(via REUTERS)

The White House cancelled the high-level talks to send a message to Netanyahu that such remarks against the Biden administration were not acceptable, Axios reported, citing two US officials. This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts, one US official told the outlet.

Meanwhile, a top Israeli official agreed to the report, stating that the Americans are fuming. [Netanyahus] video made a lot of damage.

This comes after Netanyahu in a video stated that Israel, the staunch ally of the US, is fighting against the common enemies, including Iran.

Secretary Blinken assured me that the administration is working day and night to remove these bottlenecks, he asserted following his meeting with the top US diplomat. I certainly hope thats the case. It should be the case.

He further criticised the Biden administration for inconceivable withholding of weapons and ammunition supply to Israel.

According to two American and Israeli sources, Biden's senior advisors were infuriated by Netanyahu's video, which US ambassador Amos Hochstein personally conveyed to the Israeli PM in a meeting just hours after it was released. Subsequently, the White House took a more drastic measure and called off the meeting for Thursday.

The meeting was called off when several Israeli officials were already on their way to Washington.

A third US official stated that a schedule conflict resulted in the meeting being postponed rather than canceled.

Also Read: AOC blasts war criminal Netanyahu for protesting inconceivable arms halt, avers he shouldn't address US Congress

Biden's staff angry over Netanyahu's lack of gratitude

The White House publicly expressed its surprise over Netanyahu's remarks. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre pointed out that billions of dollars' worth of weaponry had poured through without hindrance, with only one weapons supply having been stopped since the war's commencement. "We genuinely do not know what he is talking about," she stated.

One US official claimed that Biden's staff was astonished and incensed over Netanyahu's lack of gratitude.

Meanwhile, Biden's top aides called off the strategic dialogue on Iran that was supposed to involve the Pentagon, and American intelligence agencies and their Israeli counterparts.

Ties between the Biden and Netanyahu administration hit an all time low following the start of the Israel and Hamas war.

This is the second time that a meeting over Iran was cancelled at the last moment.
The Boeing Starliners return to earth from the International Space Station has been delayed, with the new date being June 26, NASAs commercial crew program manager Steve Stich has revealed, Reuters reported. Boeing Starliners return to earth from International Space Station delayed (AP/PTI)(AP06_06_2024_000115B)(AP)

On June 5, astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams reportedly launched from Cape Canaveral. While they managed to dock with the ISS, there were four helium leaks, as well as five failures of its 28 manoeuvring thrusters.

Why was the return delayed?

The return of the vehicle will be delayed due to thruster troubleshooting and a scheduled spacewalk, as per CNN. According to Stich, the delay would give our team a little bit more time to look at the data, do some analysis and make sure were really ready to come home.

We look at that as an opportunity and in this case, a privilege to stay on station and do more work, Boeings commercial crew program lead Mark Nappi said, as per the Sentinel. Weve always said this is a test flight. Were going to learn some things. So here we are.

Nappi added that further investigation into the helium leaks are necessary, and it is important to figure out why some thrusters shut down during docking. The flight was initially scheduled for just eight days.

This flight is notably the first human spaceflight of the commercial capsule. If the test is successfully completed, NASA and Boeing will be given full certification of the Starliner. This will allow it to alternate with SpaceX on frequent missions that will carry astronauts to the ISS.

As per a contract, Boeing is supposed to fly six missions with the Starliner-1, starting next February. However, the company is already four years behind SpaceX. SpaceX has been flying astronauts from the United States since as long as May 2020.

Meanwhile, the flight is expected to take about six hours to return to earth. It will possibly target a desert site in New Mexico or Utah.
Former US President Donald Trump has admitted that he had heard Donald Trump Jr.'s affair with Aubrey O'Day. In a new interview, Donald Trump admits he knew about Donald Trump Jr.'s affair with Aubrey O'Day (Photo by SCOTT OLSON / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP)

While talking with Ramin Setoodeh, author of Apprentice in Wonderland: How Donald Trump and Mark Burnett Took America Through the Looking Glass, Trump acknowledged his knowledge of the affair.

The author told ITK, Trump feels that a huge part of his legacy is The Apprentice, and hes really proud of what he created.

When he hosted a reality show, he was broadly loved, very popular, and hell recall that period of time in his life with great fondness.

More in the interview, the author's statement goes like this: When I ask Trump about ODays affair with Don Jr., he takes a long pause. 'I had heard that, actually,' he says, blinking. 'No, I had heard that.' Did he know that ODay had written a song about Don Jr.? I hadnt heard the song. But I had heard that, Trump says."

The author pointed out the fact that the former President was aware of the story about Don Jr. sleeping with one of the contestants on The Celebrity Apprentice.

While discussing the former POTUS, Steoodeh said, What I really took away from my time with Donald Trump is that as a person, as a subject, he hasnt changed. The presidency hasnt changed him. He still views the world through the lens of reality TV.

He is the same Donald Trump that hes always been. He hasnt learned from the presidency. He hasnt grown from the presidency. Hes not even particularly interested in being president of the United States, in terms of when it comes to legislative duties or responsibilities.

Trump just wants to be famous the author claimed.

ALSO READ| Donald Trump admits his frustration with Kim Kardashian: I was disappointed

Trump was pissed with Trump Jr. and Aubrey O'Day's affair

On a podcast episode of Mea Culpa, featuring Aubrey O'Day , Michael Cohen, former fixer of Donald Trump, recalled, Your father is really fu***** pissed.

This is way beyond even what I am supposed to be doing. I sat down with Don, and I said, 'I understand the attraction [to O'Day], " Cohen expressed.

The former Trump attorney then said "ts got to stop and you have to figure out how to make this right with [wife] Vanessa."

"You know I am a fan of Vanessas, youve got to make it right with her because if you dont, your father is going to throw youre a** out of here. And I said, Don, I dont know what the f**k youre capable of doing, to which Don went crazy.

Trump's former fixer also recalled the heated moment where Don Jr. expressed frustration about being held to a different standard compared to his siblings. "Only me! Its always me!"

He goes, I am always held to a different standard. Eric had s** with some Miss Universe that was on Celebrity Apprentice on the table and Ivanka has her own issues regarding sexuality and so on"

ALSO READ| 19-year-old USC student arrested after fatally stabbing a homeless man in Greek Row

Ok reported it earlier that Trump was notably displeased upon learning about his son's extramarital involvement with O'Day, especially given that Don Jr. was still married to Vanessa Trump at the time.

The affair with The Celebrity Apprentice reportedly caused a significant strain within the Trump family.
A June 17 DailyMirror.com report alleged that a secret Democrat plot is in motion to supposedly topple the oldest sitting president of the United States, Joe Biden (81). US President Joe Biden presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to US Representative Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on May 3, 2024. (AFP)

The article titled Secret Democrat plot to replace Biden revealed: How Clinton, Obama, Pelosi and Schumer would topple the aging President and when they'd do it pushed a narrative against President Biden, currently the Democratic Party's presumptive nominee and the top-running rival of the Republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump.

Circling Biden's purported credibility problem and cognitive decline, the report lists several instances of the American president's recent public-facing obligations in which he reportedly appeared to be confused or frozen. While the right-wing media houses continue to push an anti-Biden narrative, digging deeper into alarming health concerns allegedly troubling the president, several Democratic officials dispelled this swirling rhetoric.

Also read | Biden's joins forces with Clinton; reelection campaign raises $40 million in 5 days

Nancy Pelosi spokesperson lambasts the report alleging Biden's replacement as ludicrous

Although it remains difficult to comment on those aspects of the president's health, a spokesperson for former US House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi directly responded to HindustanTimes.com's coverage of the alleged claims.

In response to our article, Is a secret Democrat plot in motion to replace Joe Biden before 2024 election? All eyes on June 27 debate, Pelosi spokesperson Aaron Bennett rubbished the claims made in the report about Democratic leaders allegedly secretly scheming to unseat Biden from his reelection campaign before the August Democratic National Convention.

Directly addressing the question posed by the HindustanTimes.com story's headline, Pelosi's Communications Director & Chief Speechwriter wrote, Absolutely not. The entire notion is ludicrous, he added.

The former and 52nd speaker of the United States House of Representatives and other congressional delegation members visited the Dalai Lama's residence in McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh, India, on Wednesday to address the issue of Tibet's autonomy within Chinaa visit severely criticized by China. The visit came after Congress signed a bill with bipartisan support urging China to initiate discussions around the long-standing conflict.

Also read | Kate Middleton's Trooping the Colour surprise backfired on her health amid cancer battle, royal expert claims

What kind of secret Democrat plot is proposed by the original report?

A democratic strategist said via the DailyMail report that the Great Joe Biden Replacement Theory would require Obama, Clinton, Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to form a united front to force the president out. It would have to be the four of them collectively, the source asserted.

Furthermore, the outlet insinuated that the Democratic Party has scheduled an online nomination with a virtual roll call ahead of the mid-August Democratic National Convention in Chicago. This roll call would allegedly offer a platform to the party leaders to formally replace Biden if needed.

Akin to Pelosi's spokesperson bashing the claims made by the report, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was one such person who publicly came out to save the president's honour, slamming all speculations about his cognitive decline earlier this week. Blasting a rash of videos that have been edited to make the president appear especially frail or mentally confused," she dismissed them as cheap fakes for pushing misinformation, disinformation.
On June 13, a bipartisan group of lawmakers addressed administrative actions that need to be taken to safeguard children of green card applicants, who may otherwise be pushed to leave the United States on aging out. Led by Sen. Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Rep. Deborah Ross (D-NC), a letter signed by 43 lawmakers was sent to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and US Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Ur Jaddou, urging the Biden administration to take necessary steps to protect children of professionals awaiting the approval of their employment-based green card. Roshan Taroll, who works for a semiconductor company in the Bay Area on his F-1 Optional Practical Training, was forced to self-deport from the United States after "aging out" at 21 and failing to secure an H-1B visa. (X/Twitter)

According to the current immigration policy, children, in such cases, may be pushed to leave the country on turning 21 if their parents haven't yet obtained permanent residence in the US.

Forbes states that more than one million Indians, including dependents, are desperately waiting in the EB-based immigrant visa categories, according to a National Foundation for American Policy analysis. As a result, aging out of immigration status exposes some children to the risk of deportation while their parents suffer the brunt of excessive green card backlogs.

One such heartbreaking case is that of Roshan Taroll, an Indian-born American who was recently threatened with the traumatic risk of family separation. After turning 21, Roshan self-deported to Taiwan in June 2024 as he was forced to leave his existing family behind in America.

Also read | H-1B and L-1 visa extensions could weigh thousands of dollars heavier on US employers, according to new DHS proposal

India-born American, who came to the country on an H-4 dependent visa via his mother's work visa, is forced to self-deport due to the annual limit on H-1B petitions and aging out

Improve the Dream, a youth-led organisation that advocates for young immigrants, who have grown up in the United States as child dependents of visa holders, through engagement, education, resources, and research, according to its official website, shared Roshan's case on social media.

The video introduces his upsetting story, explaining how he was forced to self-deport for the US. His interview with the organisation divulged how the originally Boston-based individual moved from India to America with his family (including his mother and brother) when he was ten years old. He came to the country on an H-4 dependent visa through his mother's work visa."

Further detailing how strenuous it was for his mother to juggle with her professional status, being on an H-1B visa, and her family. It was definitely a bit of a shock having to manage raising two boys at home and also going to work and being on a H-1B visa.

Why Roshan Taroll's family moved to the US

We really moved because my mother saw the opportunities in this country to be endless, and she really wanted us to be able to utilise and take advantage of those, Roshan highlighted.

Also read | HT Exclusive: Pelosi spokesperson blasts ludicrous alleged secret Democrat plot to replace Biden before election

Moving on to discuss what a US citizenship would mean to him, he said, I think a path to citizenship, to me, would just mean it would be a full circle moment because my mother, she passed away before she could get her green card. And for her, moving to the United States meant her kids are able to have the opportunities that she may have not had and being able to fulfill their dreams. And so, a path to citizenship would mean being able to fulfil the hopes and dreams of my mother, but also of myself, because I owe a lot to this country, and I'm so glad for how it has raised me and how it's educated me, and I only want to give back.

Having spent all his formative years in Boston, Roshan heartfully proclaimed that he and his family couldn't think of any other place to call home.

What happened when he aged out

Upon aging out at 21, he had to convert to an F-1 student visa to attend Boston College. He continues to work for a semiconductor company in the Bay Area on his F-1 Optional Practical Training, which he addressed as a three-year work permit. His story took a while turn when he wasn't selected in the H-1B lottery, enforcing his self-deportation to an office location outside the US. While he will resume his professional duties at the same company, he will no longer be stationed in the US.

Also read | July 2024 US Visa Bulletin: Unexpected advancement in key Indian Green Card category; retrogression across EB-3

While most people were busy pursuing their college dreams, Roshan was perturbed by the thoughts of aging out: I think I realised when I could age out closer to when I was thinking about going to college. My parents tried to shield as much of the immigration system and the whirlwind and the ups and downs of the system as much as they could from us kids. But when I first started applying to college, I realised that being an H-4 dependent is very different from being just a regular kid growing up in this country. You are treated as an international student or a non-residential alien.

Although initially, Roshan merely perceived aging out as switching visa statuses, the realisation that he would be kicked off his mother's green card petition hit much later. Akin to other families not strictly riding on their Plan A and also planning out other contingencies if they're not selected in the H-1B lottery, Roshan's family also did their best to plan ahead.

Yet, they held on to the hope that maybe towards the last minute, something will come up and he will be able to stay and everything would be okay. As the finality of the surreal situation struck him, he reiterated how having spent over 16 years in the US, it was the only place he associated with being his home.

"It feels very frustrating to know that all the time that I had spent in our immigration system would be rendered invaluable. Even though I've grown up with my friends, my peers, my co-workers I've learnt so much from them I owe so much to this country that's given me so much It does feel very frustrating to end in this way and have to self-deport, he said before concluding his video message.

Ultimately, despite trying three different lotteries, Roshan's company failed to secure an H-1B visa for him due to the low annual limit on these petitions.

The US lost a taxpayer, he lost his family and his home, Improve the Dream wrote on X/Twitter. Meanwhile, the organisation's founder, Dip Patel, lauded the bipartisan Congress members for pushing for administrative policy improvements to be put in motion urgently. Until Congress can pass the bipartisan Americas Children Act, we need urgent action by the administration to prioritize this issue, which has bipartisan support from Congress and the general public, and clear economic benefit, he added.
Nvidia Corp.s relentless rally has propelled the semiconductor giants market capitalization over its mega-cap tech peers, helping it clinch the title of the worlds most-valuable company as the artificial intelligence wave continues. Nvidia, the chip company, which has enjoyed a monumental ascent over the last 18 months amid enthusiasm over generative AI, jumped 3.4 percent near 1725 GMT, giving it a market capitalization of about $3.3 trillion, slightly ahead of Microsoft and Apple. (Photo by JUSTIN SULLIVAN / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / AFP)(AFP)

The stock rose 3.5% to close at $135.58 a share Tuesday, putting the companys market value at about $3.3 trillion and catapulting it over those of Microsoft Corp. and Apple Inc. The top stocks have jockeyed all month for the pole position, with Nvidia finally edging past both of its big-tech peers.

Earlier in the month, Nvidia capped Apple by market value for the first time since 2002, and the two went back and forth in rankings in recent days. Last week, Apple also overtook Microsoft to trade in the top spot briefly.

ALSO READ| H-1B and L-1 visa extensions could weigh thousands of dollars heavier on US employers, according to new DHS proposal

AI wave propels Nvidia past Apple and Microsoft in market cap

The ranking is yet another reminder that AI is the top focus of many investors. Nvidia is seen as the biggest and earliest beneficiary of the technology as it dominates the market with its highly sought-after chips that help power data centers running complex computing tasks required by AI applications. Demand for its H100 accelerators are surging and helped drive the chipmakers sales up by more than 125% last year.

Microsoft, for its part, is also seen as an early AI winner given its investment and partnership with OpenAI, which created ChatGPT. And, this week, Apple shares rallied after the iPhone maker finally unveiled its plan for using the technology, appeasing investors at long last.

We believe over the next year the race to $4 Trillion Market Cap in Tech will be front and center between Nvidia, Apple, and Microsoft, Daniel Ives, analyst at Wedbush Securities, wrote in a note.

Nvidias surging stock price has made co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang one of the worlds richest people. His net worth has climbed nearly $75 billion since the beginning of the year to $119 billion, putting him in 12th place on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Thats the biggest gain among his billionaire peers.

Investors, alongside Huang, argue that Nvidia is more than a chipmaker.

ALSO READ| Why much of the US is sweltering: 'Heat dome' explained

Theyre not just selling chips, theyre selling systems, Michael Lippert, vice president and portfolio manager at the Baron Capital Inc., said in an interview, pointing to the companys proprietary software and development ecosystem.

Nvidias swift climb to the top has been record breaking, as the company is one of the few firms to have demonstrated significant revenue growth from AI. Shares have risen more than 170% in 2024 through Tuesdays close, adding more than $2 trillion to its market capitalization.

Nvidias GPU chips are in essence the new gold or oil in the tech sector as more enterprises and consumers quickly head down this path with the 4th Industrial Revolution well underway, said Ives.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have received immense backlash for "monetising" their Royal links amidst the ongoing internal family rift. The Duke and Duchess, who stepped down from their Royal roles in 2020, moved to the US in 2021 to start a new life with Prince Archie. The duo eventually welcomed their second child Princess Lilibet on 4 June, 2021. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been disseminating information about the Royal family members since quitting their Royal roles.(Getty)

After leaving the Royal fold, the couple became financially independent, yet they have been repeatedly caught using their relationship to make monetary gains on several occasions.

Harry and Meghan have been disseminating information about the Royal family members since quitting their Royal roles. With release of Harry's explosive memoir Spare, the Duke and Duchess were able to garner a lot of limelight by leveling several allegations against the monarch and the family.

However, they are now being advised to reconsider their decision to sign on the dotted line in order to profit from their familial connections if they to reunite with the Royal family one day.

Meghan and Harry must avoid thrashing Royal family members: Expert

Russell Myers, a royal correspondent, warned Harry and Meghan to change their tactics, stating that if they don't do so they will keep getting ignored by the Royal family members.

"Members from the Royal Family have told Harry, if he wants a relationship with the rest of the family, then first and foremost, he has got to stop talking about them," Myers told Sky News Australia.

Emphasizing that the duo cannot make money just because they are the part of Royal family, he said they will soon realise that they cannot continue to belittle the other members of the Royal family if they hope to maintain a relationship with them.

Also Read: Prince Harry, Meghan Markle brutally mocked by Queen's youngest son Prince Edward and wife Sophie

Royal family remains united with Meghan and Harry

Russell went on to claim that the Royal firm is "very united" without the Duke and Duchess. He, however, added, "if they do want a relationship, they need to take the steam out of their relationship and out of the things they say sometimes."

The announcement follows reports that Harry might be experiencing "regret" at missing this year's Trooping the Colour, the yearly celebration of the King's birthday, which was attended by cancer-stricken Kate Middleton, Prince William and their kids.

It is believed that neither Harry nor Meghan were invited to the grand procession, which was King Charles III's second since ascending to the throne.
Donald Trump has blasted Joe Biden for rewarding sham marriages at the expense of military veterans dying on the streets. The former president on Tuesday, June 18, called out Bidens new executive order. Trump slams Biden for rewarding sham marriages at expense of soldiers 'dying on the streets'(AP Photo)

Biden has revealed his plan to speed up work permits for non-citizens who graduate from colleges in the United States. He has also decided to ensure that certain undocumented immigrants are able to apply for lawful permanent residency if they are married to Americans.

We are supporting people that come in illegally

Calling the plan a lawless executive action, Trump said it will simply grant mass amnesty to millions of illegal aliens. All an illegal alien has to do is sign up for his new program  its a sham marriage or college degree  and they can expect amnesty and taxpayer support, Trump said, according to New York Post. He added, We are supporting people that come in illegally, but our soldiers, our veterans, are dying on the streets of these horribly-run Democrat cities, he added. Our country is under invasion. We should not be talking amnesty. We should be talking about stopping the invasion.

Trump went on to say that migrants have been living in luxury hotels in Democrat-run cities, and literally wounded veterans are being left on the streets. Theyre wounded from whats taken place, from the trauma, but theyre wounded and theyre laying in the streets of San Francisco and Los Angeles and New York and Chicago and Oakland and all over the place, and you have other people living in luxury hotels, he said. You tell me, is this country screwed up, or what?

A deluge of illegals will be given immediate green cards

Around 500,000 non-citizen spouses and approximately 50,000 of their children will be allowed to apply for permanent resident status without having to leave the country. When a person enters the US illegally and then marries an American, they will be allowed to go back to their home countries and then apply for permanent residency in the US. However, many spouses of US citizens may have chosen to go through this process as in some cases, they might be subject to a 10-year or 20-year ban on reentry.

Trump has now said that the program is unfair to immigrants who leave the US and go through that process. You have people that have been working for 10 years to try and come in legally, and they just keep working, he said.

Under this program, a deluge of illegals will be given immediate green cards and put on the fast track to rapid citizenship so they can vote, he claimed. Citing his polling numbers with Hispanic voters, he said, I think a lot of them are going to vote for me. He went on to promise that if he is elected in November, on the first day of his presidency, Bidens executive order would be ripped up and thrown out.
A US soldier who had been arrested and was being held in Russia on charges of stealing and threatening to kill his girlfriend was found guilty on Wednesday, June 19. Staff Sgt. Gordon D. Black, who was arrested on May 2 in the Pacific port city of Vladivostok, has been sentenced to three years and nine months in a Russian penal colony, Russian agencies have confirmed. US soldier Gordon D. Black sentenced to almost 4 years in Russian penal colony (REUTERS/Tatiana Meel)(REUTERS)

On Monday, June 17, Black pleaded not guilty on charges of threatening to kill his girlfriend, Alexandra Vashchuk. However, he said he was partially guilty of stealing from her.

RIA agency reported that Blacks defence lawyer has decided to appeal the verdict. The judge has, as of now, handed down the sentence of imprisonment of three years and nine months for both charges.

Prosecutors had initially demanded that Black be given a prison sentence of four years and eight months. However, the defence said that he must be acquitted of all charges.

Gordon D. Blacks relationship with his girlfriend

Black partially acknowledged that he stole 10,000 roubles ($113) from Vashchuks purse but said that there was no intent. He met his girlfriend in South Korea while he was stationed there. Black has a wife and a child, who live in Texas.

The Pentagon has accused Black of breaking several rules by Russia without authorization, and passing through China. Last month, his wife Megan told Reuters that he and Vashchuk did not have a healthy relationship. Melody Jones, Blacks mother, said that Vashchuk and her son fought like cats and dogs, but he still followed her to Russia.

US Army officials previously told The Mirror, "On May, 2, 2024, Russian authorities in Vladivostok, Russia, detained an American Soldier on charges of criminal misconduct. The Russian Federation notified the U.S. Department of State of the criminal detention in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. The Army notified his family and the U.S. Department of State is providing appropriate consular support to the Soldier in Russia."

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby also confirmed in the past that the Biden administration is aware of the incident.
A Russian court has awarded nearly four years jail term to a US soldier on charges of stealing and threatening to murder his girlfriend, according to state news agency RIA Novosti. The court also imposed a fine of $456 on him. Gordon Black, a U.S. Army staff sergeant, who was detained in Russia on May 2 on suspicion of stealing from a woman he was in a relationship with, appears in a court in Vladivostok, Russia, June 19, 2024. REUTERS/Tatiana Meel(REUTERS)

Staff Sergeant Gordon Black was detained in May on suspicion of stealing at Vladivostok, where he arrived to meet a woman who was said to be his lover. He was accused of stealing $112 from her during their meeting in Russia in April. Black and Vashchuk first saw each other in South Korea, where he was serving to the Eighth Army at Camp Humphreys, TASS reported.

In addition, Black was charged with physically abusing the woman after a fight.

The US soldier admitted guilt to counts of theft but denied threatening to kill her.

Black's attorney stated on Wednesday that he would be appealing the verdict rendered by the Vladivostok court, as reported by TASS.

On Monday, Black told the Pervomaisky District Court that he took the money from the woman's handbag but gave her a $125 transfer the following day. According to RIA, he claimed to have used the funds for his meals and three nights at a hotel.

Additionally, he asked the woman to obtain a 10,000 ruble security deposit from the landlord following the conclusion of the apartment contract that he was paying for, according to RIA.

During her Monday appearance in the court, the woman said she was not yet prepared to make amends with Black since she had not received any compensation for the damage.

Alexandra Vashchuk, who was in a relationship with Gordon Black, a U.S. Army staff sergeant detained in Russia on May 2 on suspicion of stealing from her, speaks with reporters in front of a court building after a hearing, in Vladivostok, Russia, June 6, 2024. REUTERS/Tatiana Meel(REUTERS)

Was Gordon Black lured to Russia? Know more about his family in US

On April 10, Black, who is married and has a child, completed his tour as an Army trainer and was supposed to return to Fort Cavazos in Texas after signing a permanent change of station.

Despite returning to the US, Black boarded an aircraft to China and then travelled to Russia to meet Vashchuk.

Following his arrival in Vladivostok, he was pulled out from the aircraft and taken into custody on suspicion of stealing goods from an individual subsequently identified as Vashchuk.

Melody Jones, Black's mother, believes that her son had been lured to Russia by Vashchuk.

In May, Jones told NBC News that he went to Russia as he wanted to see her for the last time before returning to Texas. I think she convinced him to come there.

Jones expressed concern over Black visiting Russia as the Russian government has been grabbing Americans. She even warned his son regarding travelling to Russia. I was more worried about him going to Russia than I was when he was in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Gordon Black's estranged wife breaks silence

Five months before Black and his wife filed for divorce, in January 2022, Megan Black first learned about his Russian girlfriend through their images posted on Facebook, in which Vashchuk referred to him as "her husband."

Megan Black claimed she was unaware of her husband's planned trip to Russia.

She said that Vashchuk and Black were in a constant state of argument and they were fighting like cats and dogs.

Black, according to his family, got into a heated dispute with his girlfriend while having a video chat with daughter. Vashchuk was seen on camera scratching at Black's face before grabbing a knife.

She stabbed him, Megan Black told Reuters, claiming that her daughter was distraught as Black had blood on his face.

Meanwhile, Vashchuk skipped the court hearing on Monday.

This comes amidst the ongoing tensions between US and Russia. The US State Department has strongly discouraged travel to Russia, which it classifies with nations like Afghanistan, Syria, Iran, and Sudan for having the highest level of danger.
While Barack Obama's wife Michelle Obama has rejected speculations of entering politics, the former US President opened up about his daughter's career plans. Former US President Barack Obama with daughters Sasha and Malia.(NURPHOTO VIA GETTY IMAGES)

Addressing the possibility of Sasha and Malia Obama launching a career in politics, Barack at incumbent President Joe Biden's Los Angeles fundraiser on Saturday stated that his wife has made sure that their daughters will stay away from the career.

That is a question I do not need to answer, because Michelle drilled into them so early that you would be crazy to go into politics. It will never happen, he declared.

What are Sasha and Malia Obama's plans?

After graduating from Harvard in 2021, Malia, 25, joined the film industry. On the professional front, she is working as Malia Ann. Her latest project, "The Heart," made its world premiere at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival.

Speaking about the movie she wrote and directed, Malia said, "I think it works hard to uncover where tenderness and closeness can exist in those things. It's about lost objects, lonely people, forgiveness, and regret."

Last year, Sasha Obama, who is 23 years old, received a sociology degree from the Southern California University.

Also Read: Why has Malia Obama changed her name as she forays into Hollywood?

What about Michelle Obama?

Michelle Obama, although somewhat of an aspirant candidate among Democrats, has also declared explicitly that she will never enter politics.

In an interview with Oprah Winfrey last year, the former first lady said that she has never indicated that she's interested in politics. I mean, I agreed to support my husband. He wanted to do it, and he was great at it. But at no point have I ever said, I think I want to run. Ever.

In March, the former first lady's director of communications, Crystal Carson, reaffirmed that she is not running for president and that she is in favor of Biden's candidacy.

As former First Lady Michelle Obama has expressed several times over the years, she will not be running for president, Carson stated. Mrs. Obama supports President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris re-election campaign.

Michelle declared at the conclusion of her husband's administration that she would never want her kids to have a parent in higher office again.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have signed a new agreement which includes a promise of mutual aid if one of their countries is attacked, amidst increasing tensions for both with the west, according to new agency AP. Vladimir Putin: Russia and North Korea have vowed to protect each other if attacked(File photo)

There is no clarity on what kind of aid is referred to in the deal, which has only been described as a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The deal was inked in Putin's first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years. North Korea has allegedly been providing arms to Moscow in it's war against Ukraine, which has led several western countries to apply sanctions against the two countries. Russia has been offering North Korea with knowledge transfers and economic aid to develop its nuclear and missile weapons program.

Read more: Kim Jong Un greets Vladimir Putin with late-night red carpet reception on North Korea visit

Putin said, according to Russian news agency TASS, Russia would not rule out developing a military-technical cooperation with North Korea.

According to Ria Novosti, Kim Jong Un was quoted saying that the agreement was peaceful and meant for defence, I have no doubt it will become a driving force accelerating the creation of a new multipolar world.

Read more: Russia's Vladimir Putin arrives in North Korea, vows to resist sanctions on Kim Jon Un

The two countries also signed deals on cooperation in the fields of healthcare, medical education, and science, Russian state media reported.

The two day summit between Putin and Kim Jong Un was meant to consolidate their economic and mlilitary powers to resist what Putin termed as illegal sanctions against the two countries.

Read more: North Korea's Kim vows 'full support' for Russia in Ukraine as Putin announces deal to boost ties

Putin thanked Kim Jong Un for North Koreas support of his war in Ukraine and also for being part of the fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the U.S. and its satellites against the Russian Federation.
A bulk carrier sank days after an attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels believed to have killed one mariner on board, authorities said early Wednesday, the second ship sunk in the rebels' campaign. Yemens Houthi rebels have been firing barrage of drones and missiles targeting shipping in the Red Sea. (AP/File)

The sinking of the Tutor in the Red Sea marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Iranian-backed Houthis in their campaign targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

Also read | Narendra Modi in Bihar highlights

The attack comes despite a monthslong U.S.-led campaign in the region that has seen the Navy face its most-intense maritime fighting since World War II, with near-daily attacks targeting commercial vessels and warship.

The Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated Tutor sank in the Red Sea, the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said in a warning to sailors in the region.

Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the last reported location, the UKMTO said. The vessel is believed to have sunk.

The Houthis, quoting foreign reports in media outlets they control, acknowledged the sinking. The U.S. military did not acknowledge the sinking, nor did it respond to requests for comment.

The Tutor came under attack about a week ago by a bomb-carrying Houthi drone boat in the Red Sea. John Kirby, a White House national security spokesman, said Monday that the attack killed a crew member who hailed from the Philippines. The Philippines has yet to acknowledge the death, but the man who had been aboard the Tutor has been missing for over a week in the Red Sea, which faces intense summertime heat.

The use of a boat loaded with explosives raised the specter of the attack in 2000 on the USS Cole, a suicide assault by al-Qaida when the warship was at port in the Yemeni city of Aden, killing 17 on board. The Cole is now part of a U.S. Navy operation in the Red Sea led by the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to try and halt the Houthi attacks, though the rebels continue their assaults.

The Houthis have launched more than 60 attacks targeting specific vessels and fired off other missiles and drones in their campaign that has killed a total of four sailors. They've seized one vessel and sunk two since November. A U.S.-led airstrike campaign has targeted the Houthis since January, with a series of strikes May 30 killing at least 16 people and wounding 42 others, the rebels say.

Also read: Weather Today News LIVE

In March, the Belize-flagged Rubymar carried a load of fertilizer sank in the Red Sea after taking on water for days following a rebel attack.

The Houthis have maintained their attacks target ships linked to Israel, the U.S. or the U.K. However, many of the ships they've attacked have little or no connection to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

The war in Gaza has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians there, while hundreds of others have been killed in Israeli operations in the West Bank. It began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostage.

A recent report by the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency acknowledged container shipping through Red Sea has declined by 90% since December over the attacks. As much as 15% of the world's maritime traffic flows through that corridor.

Meanwhile Wednesday, the Houthis said U.S.-led airstrikes targeted Raymah, a province in Yemen under rebel control. The Houthi-controlled SABA news agency described a local radio station's building as being totally destroyed in the strikes. About a week earlier, the Houthis said similar strikes killed two people and wounded nine others, without saying if those hurt were fighters or civilians.

The U.S. military's Central Command said in an earlier statement it destroyed eight Houthi drones in Yemen, while also destroying a Houthi drone in flight over the Gulf of Aden over the last day.
Russian troops have begun beheading Ukrainian soldiers in an act of "terrible barbarism" that violates the Geneva Conventions, Ukraine's prosecutor general alleged Tuesday.

Aerial reconnaissance over a battlefield in Ukraine's Donetsk region revealed a damaged Ukrainian military vehicle, Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin's office said in a statement posted on the Telegram messaging website.

"On it was the severed head of a Ukrainian defender," Kostin's office said.

The statement was accompanied by a photo that appeared to show a crashed, bullet-riddled armored truck with a small, blurred image on its hood.

Officials didn't say when the alleged beheading occurred.

Prosecutors have received information that a Russian division commander "gave an order not to capture Ukrainian servicemen, but instead to kill them with inhuman cruelty  by beheading," according to Kostin's office.

"This is a terrible barbarism that has no place in the 21st century," the statement said. "And this is another proof that the war crimes committed by the aggressor are not isolated incidents, but a planned strategy of the Russian regime."

The prosecutor general's office called the alleged order and beheading a "gross violation" of the Geneva Conventions.

Kostin called on "the entire civilized world to isolate and punish the terrorist country," his office said.

The Ukrainian Security Service has launched a pretrial investigation to identify "specific military personnel of the Russian Federation in the commission of this crime," according to the prosecutor general's office.
Wells Fargo recently took disciplinary action against a group of a dozen employees last month who were allegedly engaged in deceptive practices related to their work activities.

According to reports, the bank terminated these workers following an internal investigation. The investigation revealed claims that these employees had been utilizing software or methods to simulate keyboard activity on their computers, creating the impression that they were actively working when, in reality, they were not productively engaged in their assigned tasks.



These employees were engaged in "quiet vacationing," a term surging in popularity to describe how remote workers are enjoying vacations without dipping into their paid time off.

What is Quiet Vacationing?

Quiet vacationing, sometimes also known as "quiet quitting," refers to the practice of employees intentionally limiting their work efforts and disengaging from their job responsibilities while still maintaining their employment and receiving compensation. Instead of actively working, these employees may use their work time for personal pursuits, such as traveling, engaging in hobbies, or attending to personal matters at home.

How Do You Fake Being at Work Remotely?

These employees that partake in such practice, may have a keyboard activity simulator that moves the mouse making it seem like they're active on slack but in reality, they're not working.

According to the U.S. News and World Report, some of these employees schedule emails or instant messages at various times so they appear to be working.

How Do Companies Catch Employees Fake Working?

Can companies catch you fake working? According to the BBC, many large corporations have implemented advanced monitoring tools to keep track of their employees' activities. These tools can track various aspects, such as keystrokes, eye movements, screenshots, and website visits, allowing employers to monitor productivity levels.

One such tool is known as the "mouse jiggler," popular on Amazon, is a device designed to simulate computer activity by generating periodic mouse movements. These devices aim to create the appearance of an actively used computer, potentially circumventing the monitoring systems implemented by employers. Mouse jigglers are widely available and marketed as a way for employees to maintain privacy and avoid excessive workplace surveillance.

Is Quiet Vacationing Worth it?

Employees that don't want to use the company's PTO partake in this practice but is it worth losing your job over? Knowing that companies can track what you're doing and catch you in the act the way Wells Fargo caught their employees and fired them, the smarter move is to be upfront with your company. If you need some extra time off, just ask - maybe they'll let you take a "quiet vacation" with their blessing. Or better yet, plan out your year and use your PTO the right way. You don't want to risk losing your job over this.

Trust me, it's not worth the risk. A little honesty and planning can go a long way. Your future self will thank you for keeping it legit.
With eight days left to live, death row inmate Ramiro Gonzales has one dying wish: to donate a kidney.

"He has a great deal of good that he can still do," Cantor Michael Zoosman, a Jewish clergyman who became friends with Gonzalez after corresponding with him for three years, told HNGN in an interview Tuesday.

In 2006, Gonzales, now 41, was sentenced to death for the 2001 sexual assault and murder of 18-year-old Bridget Townsend in Medina County, Texas. His execution date has been hanging over his head for nearly 20 years, giving him plenty of time to ruminate about his deadly actions. He eventually found comfort in worship and began to minister other inmates.

So when a fellow man of faith wrote a letter to Gonzales, he welcomed the friendly correspondence.

As with every person that is sentenced to death in the U.S., Zoosman, the founder of L'chaim! Jews Against the Death Penalty, reached out in an effort to offer his support while Gonzales was "undergoing the psychological torture of counting down his days to death once he was given his execution warrant," and their friendship blossomed.

Gonzales spent years within the confines of the prison walls, contemplating the life he took and searching for ways to right his wrongs  often turning to Zoosman for guidance.

"Ramiro has been very clear from day one that he recognizes that nothing he can do can change the life of Bridget Townsend that he took. Nothing can make up for that," he said. "Nothing can atone for that. But he does want to do everything he can to try to give life, especially knowing that he took life, and knowing that it wouldn't make up for it."

Zoosman casually mentioned in a letter to Gonzales that a member of his congregation was in desperate need of a kidney, and the inmate eagerly jumped at the chance to help as part of his journey to repent.

Ultimately, Gonzalez's rare blood type meant he was medically unqualified to donate to the cantor's colleague, but he still felt a strong desire to be an altruistic donor and give up his kidney to someone anyone in need.

His legal team has been fighting to halt his execution  if not, overturn his death sentence  to honor his final request. They filed a clemency packet earlier this month, and are awaiting a response from the governor.

"This is not something that he's seeking to do to get forgiveness for what he's done. But something that comes from a profound place, to try to give life as much as he can," explained Zoosman.

After determining Gonzalez wasn't a match for the initial recipient, the Texas Department of Corrections declined the inmate's altruistic offer, arguing it would create an"'uncertain timeline, thereby possibly interfering with the court-ordered execution date'" of June 26, his lawyers said, CNN reported.

"The great irony there is, of course, Texas being a pro-life state, and they are preventing this means of giving life from taking place," argued Zoosman.

Even if the state denies Gonzalez's legal team's request to commute his death sentence to life in prison, Zoosman said that wouldn't have any bearing on his decision and desire to donate a kidney as one of his final acts.

"He never intended his donation to enable him to escape the executioner's sword," he said.

But having grown close over the years, Zoosman, is begging Gov. Greg Abbott to spare his friend's precious life.

"There must be at least one case where clemency is seriously considered and given," he explained. "Of all the people that I've known, I can think of none other that would merit clemency for being a changed person and for being able to change others on death row than Ramiro Gonzalez. I can think of none other that I've known  and I've known many  for whom it would be worthy."
A controversial Idaho bar offering hetero-only beer deals and anti-vax meetups has added "open carry" coffee events to its contentious calendar, but with one minor caveat: no rifles.

For the remaining Saturdays in June, the Old State Saloon in Eagle, Idaho, is encouraging its patrons to bring their holstered guns to their establishment as part of a buy one, get one deal for coffee.

"Join us for the safest cup (or two) of coffee you've ever had. Bring your favorite sidearm and a story," the bar announced Saturday on Facebook. "No rifles, please."

"Sounds like a recipe for violence," one person quipped.

"I love this!! We are planning a trip down to see y'all," another raved.

The Old State Saloon made headlines earlier this month when it announced in lieu of Pride Month, it would recognize June as "Heterosexual Awesomeness Month." The month-long celebration continues to be marked with free beers and happy hour pricing for straight men and women, according to social media. The bar is also selling "Hetero Month" merchandise.

The owner of the bar, Mark Fitzpatrick, talked about the recent "rebranding" on a podcast shortly after, claiming that his "fifteen minutes of fame" happened for a "godly purpose."

The bar admitted it experienced backlash including, "theft of our property, vendors refusing to fulfill our orders for ingredients, wedding catering cancelation [sic], libel, slander  even the owner being falsely accused of being a sex offender!" following its announcement.

The saloon first announced in late May that it would "celebrate heterosexuals" in June because "without them, none of us would be here."
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun said he is "proud of every action" he's taken as outgoing chief, amid the aerospace company's series of flight fiascos.

At a Tuesday Senate hearing focused on Boeing's safety woes, Calhoun stood by the airplane manufacturer's marred safety record, despite a series of recent mechanical mishaps, questionable parts manufacturing, and several whistleblowers' allegations of criminal coverups.

"I'm proud of having taken the job. I'm proud of this safety record, and I'm proud of our Boeing people," Calhoun responded when Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley questioned why he hasn't yet resigned, according to CNN.

"I'm proud of every action we have taken," he maintained.

During the heated exchange, Hawley grilled Calhoun over his $32.8 million salary, which Hawley noted was a 45% increase over the previous year, and questioned whether safety was part of his responsibilities as CEO. Calhoun confirmed.

"If safety is a component of your $33 million compensation package, how can you qualify for any of this?" Hawley interrogated. "I think the truth is, Mr. Calhoun, you're not focused on safety, you're not focused on quality, you're not focused on transparency."

Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal called Boeing a once "iconic company known for engineering excellence and product prowess, that somehow lost its way."

In March, a Boeing 777-300ER traveling from Sydney to San Francisco was forced to turn around due to a fuel leak. That same month, a Boeing 777-200 from San Francisco to Japan was forced to make an emergency landing in Los Angeles after a tire fell from the aircraft.

Also in March, two former employees-turned-whistleblowers died  one from a self-inflicted gunshot wound and another from sudden illness. The death of 62-year-old John Barnett, who was found dead in his truck alongside a suicide note, was triggered by "the immense pressure the company put on him," Blumenthal alleged.

Both whistleblowers accused Boeing of overlooking defects in its manufacturing of airplanes before they died.

"The issues before us today have real human consequences. Life and death results. Not just abstract numbers," added Blumenthal. "This hearing is a moment of reckoning."
Authorities arrested an Arizona mom accused of leaving her 4-year-old locked in a hot car as she went shopping amid triple digit temperatures and an excessive heat warning.

Police arrested Nichole Yazzie, 32, Saturday, after she allegedly left her kid locked in their car parked outside a Mesa, Arizona, shopping center, while temperatures crept upwards of 110 degrees, KTVK-TV, KPNX-TV, and KTAR News reported, citing court records.

Yazzie has been charged with one count of child abuse.

Witnesses called 911 to report a child in visible distress while locked in the vehicle.

When first responders rescued the child, she was disoriented, sweating excessively, and dehydrated, said police. She was treated on the scene.

Investigators determined temperatures inside the vehicle may have reached 129 degrees.

Yazzie admitted she left her daughter in the car with the engine shut off after the girl refused to come inside the store with her because she didn't want her kid to "drive away," according to the documents, KPNX reported.

Yazzie's bail was set at $15,000.
The founder of a Texas megachurch has resigned in the wake of allegations he sexually abused a girl during the 1980s, starting when she was 12, according to a report Tuesday.



A spokesperson for the Gateway Church said pastor Robert Morris, 63, didn't provide church elders with "all the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse," the Dallas Morning News said.



"The elders' prior understanding was that Morris's extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with 'a young lady' and not abuse of a 12-year-old child," spokesperson Lawrence Swicegood said in a prepared statement.

Morris hasn't responded to repeated requests for comment, the Dallas Morning News said.



Morris, who has ties to former President Donald Trump, on Saturday admitted engaging in "inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady" but didn't acknowledge her age.



His statement to the Christian Post website came after Christine Clemishire, who's in her 50s, told the Wartburg Watch website that Morris first molested her on Christmas night 1982 and that the abuse continued intermittently until March 1987.



Clemishire told a Dallas TV station that she'd hired lawyer Basyle "Boz" Tchividjian, a grandson of the late televangelist Billy Graham, who specializes in representing victims of abuse by church leaders.



Tchividjian said statutes of limitations would likely prevent criminal charges or civil litigation, WFAA reported.
Russia and North Korea have a new partnership and are promising to come to each other's defense if either country is attacked.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is visiting North Korea to meet with Kim Jong Un.

The extent of the new deal was not immediately released but appears to strengthen ties between the two isolated countries.

Russia is facing sanctions for its invasion of Ukraine while North Korea has faced isolation for its nuclear program.

Both leaders described the pact as a strengthening of their relations, covering security, trade, investment and cultural and humanitarian ties, according to the Associated Press.

North Korea has been providing Russia with weapons in exchange for economic assistance and technology.

"The comprehensive partnership agreement signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this agreement," said Putin.

It is his first visit to North Korea in 24 years, Reuters reported.
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world's largest hotel franchising company with 25 brands and approximately 9,200 hotels in more than 95 countries, announced the grand opening of Wyndham Sun Moon Lake in partnership with LeaLea Group. The hotel opening marks the first Wyndham hotel and internationally branded resort in Taiwan and illustrates Wyndham Hotels & Resorts' strategic growth in the region, expanding the accommodation choices for travelers across Asia-Pacific.

Renowned as one of the Top 10 tourist destinations in the Asia-Pacific region, Taiwan has been a magnet for tourists from Japan, South Korea, and other Asia-Pacific regions. The local Tourism Administration reports a vibrant resurgence in Taiwan's tourism sector, with a remarkable 6.48 million visitors recorded last year, and projects a significant milestone of over ten million visitors this year.

Among its many attractions, Sun Moon Lake stands out as a captivating landmark, enchanting visitors with its crystal-clear waters, breathtaking landscapes, and deep historical and cultural roots. This upscale property has established itself as the premier choice for travelers in pursuit of extraordinary experiences, further invigorating the thriving local tourism industry.

Comfortable Lodging Surrounded by Lakes and Mountains

Nestled on the shores of Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan's largest natural lake, Wyndham Sun Moon Lake is situated in a scenic environment, surrounded by majestic mountains and serene waters. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway, Nine Frogs Tower, and Man Mo Temple, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture and natural wonders.

The hotel offers 203 rooms, accommodating both leisure and business travelers. It features cozy family-friendly rooms and private hot spring baths in every room, providing an ideal sanctuary for guests looking to unwind after a tiring day while indulging in breathtaking lake and mountain views.

In addition, Wyndham Sun Moon Lake offers comprehensive facilities, such as a fitness center, spa, two restaurants, two bars, and a family-friendly cafe. Furthermore, its spacious banquet and meeting rooms cater to a wide range of business and leisure needs.

Wyndham Sun Moon Lake joins two other hotels from Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in the market, including Ramada Encore by Wyndham Hualien and TRYP by Wyndham New Taipei Linkou. All three properties participate in Wyndham Rewards, the number one hotel rewards program as named by readers of USA Today and U.S. News & World Report with approximately 108 million enrolled members globally. With more than 60,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally, no other hotel rewards program is more generous or offers members more places to stay.

Hotel website
Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy's extraordinary portfolio of over 30 hotel brands, today announced the opening of The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh, marking the brand's entry into Vietnam. Nestled along a long sandy beach on Vietnam's south-central coast, this 207-key resort will offer a choice of spacious guest rooms, suites and pool villas, locally sourced cuisine and an extensive collection of well-being experiences designed to empower guests to be the best version of themselves.

Designed by Andy Fisher Workshop, the resort is seamlessly integrated with its coastal setting of sand dunes, with a focus on natural materials such as stone and green roofs that create a connection with the landscape. An original, locally made brick screen pays homage to the historic brick making industry, while some other interior elements are inspired by the area's local lobster farms and fishing villages. A selection of private pool villas provides a tropical 'home-away-from-home' experience just a few steps from the beach.

Situated along the serene Cam Ranh Long Beach, The Westin Cam Ranh Resort & Spa offers a rejuvenating retreat with captivating ocean and mountain vistas. The new hotel is conveniently located, with Cam Ranh International Airport just a 10-minute drive away, and the center of Nha Trang city accessible within a 45-minute drive, providing easy connectivity to other regional and international destinations.

Hotel website
PITTSBURGH - Aptech, a hospitality company providing the best in finance and accounting software for more than 50 years to hotels, will reveal a NEW dashboard for its PVNG enterprise accounting solution at HITEC Charlotte, to be held June 24 to 27 at the Charlotte (N.C.) Convention Center. Developed at the request of its customers, the tool provides a quick view of the status of a hotels financials from the previous night and more. All data is updated in the system in real time, enhancing the ability for hotel operators to make more informed decisions, improve efficiency, and achieve strategic goals.

Aptech is known industrywide for exceptional support and quick response to our customers. Users asked us for fast access to financial and operational data  accounts payable, general ledger, statistical data  all on one screen and without having to execute multiple reports or inquiries to provide a pulse of where they are now and how they are progressing financially. PVNG was the only one of our three products that did not have a dashboard, so we went to work. Wanting to provide the most value, we asked specifically what they would like to be included on the dashboard  and we delivered. Aptech President Jill Wilder

The PVNG Dashboard provides a quick glimpse of:

Bank account balances for each bank account

Open invoice balances for top five vendors

Overall Accounts Payable Aging: Current / 30+ / 60+ / 90+ Days

Comparative analysis on user selected KPIs; Yesterday/Month to Date/Month to Date Last Year

Our customers are saying they cannot wait to visit us at HITEC to see the dashboard in action, Wilder said. This tool will give users real-time access to data, enabling them to monitor performance and trends as they happen. This immediacy provides quicker reactions to changing conditions, such as market shifts or operational issues. The dashboard will also improve decision making. By consolidating data from various sources into a single, easy-to-understand interface, the PVNG dashboard will help operators work smarter, not harder.

Just like the dashboards for its Execuvue (Business Intelligence) and Targetvue (Budgeting & Forecasting) solutions, the PVNG dashboard can be accessed from any web browser, enabling users to access all data via mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop. This dashboard is a standard feature of PVNG and will be included in the next software release slated for July 2024.

We encourage people to come by Booth 2644 at HITEC to see the PVNG dashboard and provide their input, Wilder said. This is the first release, and we will continue to develop the dashboard to provide more flexibility and information defined by our customers.

On Display at HITEC

PVNG is one of the top ranked solutions in the Hotel Tech Report Best Finance & Accounting Software 2024 popularity index. It ranked No. 2 out of 37 companies in the finance and accounting software category. Ninety six percent of limited service and budget hotels, 94% of luxury hotels, 93% of branded hotels, and 84% of resorts say they would recommend PVNG for enterprise accounting. The solution earned an overall score of 4.7 out of 5.0 for ease of use, customer support, return on investment and ease of implementation.

PVNG features the Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, General Ledger, Statistics, Financials, and Bank Reconciliation that todays hotel operators are seeking with much-needed browser navigation. It features automated invoice processing, a myriad of payment options, drill-down capabilities in financial statements and reports, and the ability to handle single or multi-property accounting.

Attendees will also see Aptechs IBM Cognos-based ASP BI application, Execuvue. It delivers visualizations of financial and operational data that hoteliers can act upon. The drag-and-drop environment provides easy-to-access reporting and analytics. The solution configures data portfolio wide, giving operators a performance snapshot by region, brand, and property. The scalability, flexibility, and integration capabilities of Execuvue sets Aptech apart from other BI providers.

Aptechs hospitality-driven budgeting and forecasting solution, Targetvue, will also be showcased. The solution provides accounting teams with one version of the truth. It consolidates reports, identifies trends, and eliminates the maintenance and distribution of Excel spreadsheets throughout the organization. Automated forecast snapshots offers users ad-hoc capabilities to previous and future performance projections.

To learn more about Aptech solutions, visit them at HITEC Charlotte, June 24 to 27 at the Charlotte Convention Center in Booth #2644. For more information on all Aptech solutions, visit http://www.aptech-inc.com.

About Aptech

Aptech Computer Systems, Inc., based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is the only provider of a fully integrated enterprise accounting, business intelligence and planning ecosystem to the hospitality industry. All clients are companies like yours, which own or manage hotels. Its solutions help customers at both the corporate and property levels understand their financial and operational data for faster goal achievement. The company is renowned for introducing business intelligence into the hotel industry and offers a solid resource of hospitality professionals. Aptech is an IBM Software Value Plus partner and Premier Solution Provider, as well as a Prophix Premier Business Partner. Incorporated in 1970, Aptechs state-of-the-art back office, true business intelligence and enterprise planning solutions are 100% hotel specific. Solutions include PVNG, Execuvue and Targetvue. Clients comprise over 3,500 properties  including large chains, multiple-property management companies and single-site hotels. Execuvue is registered to Aptech Computer Systems Inc. All other trademarks are owned by their respective holders. For more information, please visit www.aptech-inc.com.

Barbara Worcester

+1 440 930 5770
The Lindner Hotel Group has received two awards in the main category Excellence in Brand Strategy and Creation for the new appearance and strategic repositioning of its Lindner Hotels & Resorts brand. The jury of the German Brand Awards explained its decision: Maintaining the balance between preservation and contemporary reinvention had succeeded outstandingly well.

At the award ceremony in Berlin, Stefanie Brandes, Chief Operating Officer, and Maximilian Abele, Vice President Brands & Marketing, accepted the awards in the Brand Design - Corporate Brand and Brand Strategy of the Year categories. "We are delighted that we were able to win over the jury of one of the most important competitions for brand management," says Stefanie Brandes. "Our intention was to reposition the Lindner Hotels & Resorts brand. In doing so, we are reflecting on our roots and at the same time helping to shape the future of the hotel industry. Our rebranding makes the entrepreneurial spirit and inspiration equally tangible for our guests."

Last year, the Lindner Hotel Group presented the relaunch of its brand Lindner Hotels & Resorts, part of JdV by Hyatt, on the occasion of its 50th anniversary. It had already received the German Stevie Award in three categories for this in March 2024. Winning two German Brand Awards proves that the new website impresses not only users and readers, but also the experts. "Through the strategic realignment and the complete redesign of their brand identity, they have succeeded in combining their deeply rooted values with a modern zeitgeist and current guest needs," said the high-caliber jury.

"The rebranding was a decisive strategic step towards the internationalization, repositioning and further development of our company," says Arno Schwalie, Chief Executive Officer of the Lindner Hotel Group. "I see the awards as proof that we have succeeded in giving visible expression to our transformation."

Attention on all channels

As Vice President Brands & Marketing, Maximilian Abele is responsible for the external image of the hotel group's four brands. Maximilian and his team managed the activities surrounding the relaunch under the leadership of Stefanie Brandes. "With the repositioning and implementation of the rebranding within just under a year and the subsequent multimedia campaign for the 50th anniversary, we have made the Lindner Hotels & Resorts brand fit to enter into the partnership with Hyatt. We have also set an example of how quickly and efficiently brand transformation can be implemented," says Maximilian Abele.

The new brand identity was created over a period of around nine months in collaboration with Remo Masala and his team from Vision Alphabet. Masala's focus is on the hotel and tourism sectors, and he has also successfully supported car manufacturers and brands in the consumer sector. "Remo Masala provided creative support for our repositioning. We owe him an extraordinary debt of gratitude," says Stefanie Brandes. "Remo Masala and Vision Alphabet have done an excellent job of translating our DNA as a family business, our values and our identity as hosts into design," says Frank Lindner, Chief Technical Officer and co-partner of the Lindner Hotel Group.

An award with a reputation

Since 2018, the independent jury of experts consisting of members of the German Design Council has been awarding prizes to companies, agencies, non-commercial and government organizations worldwide for innovations, campaigns and trends in around 60 categories. In 2024, Infineon, Deutsche Telekom, Ford Germany and Universal Music Group were among the award winners. More information about the German Brand Award: https://www.german-brand-award.com/

About Lindner Hotels AG

As the Lindner Hotel Group, Lindner Hotels AG operates 34 hotels in eight European countries and the USA. Six further hotels are currently in construction or being realized. The group employs around 2,500 people and expects to generate sales of around 330 million euros in 2024. The Lindner Hotel Group operates four distinct brands: Lindner Hotels & Resorts and me and all hotels have been part of JdV by Hyatt since 2022. The affiliation strengthens the company's international growth and is also part of the World of Hyatt loyalty program, which offers guests access to a global range of personalized experiences. Since May 2024, Lindner Hotel Group has taken over exceptional vacation hotel properties and expanded its brand portfolio to include the 7Pines Hotels & Resorts and L-Collection brands. 7Pines Resort Ibiza, 7Pines Resort Sardinia, and SCHLOSS Roxburghe in Scotland are part of Destination by Hyatt, a collection of independent hotels with individual designs that harmonize with their surroundings. Arno Schwalie is Chairman of the Board and CEO of Lindner Hotels AG, founded in 1973 by architect Otto Lindner and is still family-owned. Together with Stefanie Brandes (COO) and Frank Lindner (CTO), he forms the Management Board of Lindner Hotels AG.
HBX Group has revealed the latest details for the upcoming MarketHub Europe, taking place from 26-27 June 2024 at the Hilton Bomonti Istanbul. This year's theme, "New Frontiers," promises to delve into the latest trends and innovations shaping the travel and hospitality Industry.

MarketHub is HBX Groups signature event, bringing together key decision-makers and influencers from across the travel industry. This unique gathering provides an unparalleled opportunity for HBX Group's clients and partners to connect, network, and learn from each other.

Speakers confirmed for MarketHub Europe include prominent figures from renowned organisations such as Arival, ForwardKeys, and National Geographic. Additionally, HBX Group's senior management will take the stage to discuss the latest developments identified by the TravelTech company. Bertrand Sava, Managing Director Retail, will unveil strategies to reshape tourism through experiences; Mark Antipof, Chief Growth Officer, will explore how to leverage the power of an ecosystem in travel; and Carlos Munoz, Chief Commercial Officer, will discuss the latest developments of HBX Group and the new frontiers of the travel industry.

The comprehensive conference agenda includes keynotes and panel discussions covering a wide array of subjects, such as current traveller trends and industry insights for 2024, how data is redefining travel, and how to leverage innovation and sustainability to shape the future of the travel sector. These sessions are designed to provide a holistic view of the current state and future of the industry.

The event will also feature a trade show area exclusively for HBX Groups partners, offering a platform for showcasing cutting-edge products and services that are transforming the travel industry.

Carlos Munoz, Chief Commercial Officer of HBX Group, said: MarketHub is set to be an inspiring event that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our aim is to provide a platform where industry leaders can exchange ideas and drive forward the future of travel. We are very excited to welcome our clients and partners in Istanbul to explore 'New Frontiers' and share the next chapter of our industry.

MarketHub Europe sponsors include industry-leading companies such as Go Turkiye, Minor Hotels, Clermont Hotel Group, Porto Bay Hotels & Resorts, Accor, Rixos Hotels, Discover Puerto Rico, Kilit Hospitality Group, Valentin Hotel & Resorts, HotelRunner, and The Land of Legends.

MarketHub Europe

is an invitation-only event attended by HBX Groups partners and clients. For more information about the MarketHub, please visit www.themarkethub.com

About HBX Group

HBX Group is a global B2B TravelTech company that owns and operates Hotelbeds, Bedsonline and Roiback. We offer a network of interconnected travel tech products and services to partners such as travel agencies, tour operators, destinations, and hotels, as well as companies wanting to leverage the travel sector. Our vision is to simplify the complex and fragmented travel industry through a combination of cloud-based technology solutions, curated data, and an extensive portfolio of products designed to maximise revenue. HBX Group is present in 170 countries and employs more than 3700 people around the globe. We are committed to making travel a force for good, creating a positive social and environmental impact. For more information visit www.hbxgroup.com.
Image Credit Travel Market Life Podcast

In Travel Review Show's June 2024 edition, we delve into the world of solo travel, share insights from our adventures, and discuss the latest industry news. Clare Steiner reports from the sunny beaches of Greece, Will Plummer recounts tales from Hungary's historic core, James Clarke discusses his invigorating break in Cyprus, and host Ryan shares his Welsh wander.

Solo travel is gaining momentum, with significant growth among older travellers discovering the joys of independent journeys. Clare Steiner, from Greece, highlights the increasing confidence of British solo travellers and the importance of security, especially for women seeking safe accommodations.

Will Plummer, fresh from Hungary, notes travel companies are providing affordable and secure options, addressing challenges like high single supplements. He sees growth potential in the solo travel market with an aging population and democratized travel.

James Clarke, recently in Cyprus, discusses the market's response to solo travellers' needs. He urges travel companies to make solo travel more accessible and affordable by addressing issues like single supplements.

Pelumi Nubi, a seasoned solo traveller and a content creator shares her experiences, emphasizing security and comfort for solo female travellers. She highlights the growing interest among women in solo travel and the industry's need to address single supplements to attract a broader audience.

Kerry Gallagher, Managing Director at Silver Travel Advisor, provides insights into the solo travel market's evolution. She discusses the increasing popularity of solo travel among the over 50s and changing perceptions. Kerry points out travel companies' efforts to cater to solo travellers with solo cabins and tailored tours.

In the news that we have discussions on, Booking.com faces a probe for misleading customers by omitting tourist taxes and falsely claiming near-sold-out rooms. Expedia Group introduces Travel Shops for influencers to earn commissions on bookings. Travel trends in 2024 show a record number of international travellers, increased consumer spending, and longer vacations. Memorable events are driving travel, with Japan, Ireland, and Romania experiencing significant growth in tourist spending. The Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole council considers a local visitor charge of 2.40 per night.

Listen to the podcast.

About Haynes MarComs

Haynes MarComs supports businesses with strategic brand marcomms and digital and PR campaigns by taking an holistic approach to sales, marketing and customer delivery. Our aim is to make your business more efficient and productive in your go-to-market strategy to secure the confidence from the market that drives lead generation to meet your commercial goals.


The Buffalo lodging market is affected by several unique factors given its location along the Canadian border. In this article, we explore the correlation between Buffalo occupancy and border crossings to the market from Canada, as well as the impact of the exchange rate for the U.S. dollar to the Canadian dollar.

As a border town, Buffalo has historically been heavily reliant on Canadian visitors and U.S. travelers stopping over en route to/from Canada for lodging demand. Based on a recent hotel market study and many hotel appraisals in the greater Buffalo-Niagara area I have performed, it is clear that traffic volume at the land crossings has an impact on these border markets. Below is a brief timeline of the changing restrictions for border crossings from 2020 until 2023.

Key Dates for Border-Crossing Restrictions

As the one-year anniversary recently passed since all COVID-19 border restrictions were lifted, I wanted to take a look at the correlation between the key metrics for the Buffalo lodging market and crossings data at the Peace Bridge, an international land border that connects Buffalo to Fort Erie in Ontario, Canada.

Peace Bridge Border Crossings by Month



* Crossings reflect automobiles entering the U.S. from Canada (excludes trucks and crossings in dedicated commercial lanes)

Peace Bridge Border Crossings Compared with Market Occupancy

Note: occupancy levels do not include all hotels in the market but comprise a representative sample

Source: STR, Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority





As illustrated above, the depth and duration of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic affected the two metrics slightly differently based on the nature and extent of restrictions on businesses and the restrictions placed on border crossings. With the availability of vaccines and lifting of many business restrictions, occupancy generally improved in 2021, although the Omicron variant slowed the recovery in the latter part of the year. However, international border crossings declined in 2021 as the border remained closed for all nonessential travel for much of the year and then reopened with heavy restrictions in place. With border restrictions fully lifted in early 2023, both international crossings into Buffalo and occupancy levels spiked.

Peace Bridge

We note that 2024 will be the first year since 2019 where COVID-19-related border restrictions will not play a role in the local border crossings or the occupancy of Buffalo hotels. Neither metric has fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, largely due to a third variable that plays a significant role in both: exchange rates. Buffalo is a convenient stopover destination for Canadian travelers heading south for vacation, and the duty-free exemptions in the U.S. have historically made shopping in New York an attractive weekend getaway for Canadians; however, these trips are more appealing when the U.S. dollar is not quite as strong, as was the case in 2018. While exchange rates were also lower in 2021, the Buffalo market did not see the typical benefits given the aforementioned border restrictions.

Historical USD to CAD Exchange RateJanuary 2018 through April 2024



Source: Federal Reserve Board

Final Thoughts

The Buffalo lodging market has historically benefited from notable demand created by Canadian travelers, and this demand source will continue to play an important role going forward. While occupancy levels have not fully recovered from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related border restrictions, double-digit annual rate growth allowed market RevPAR to exceed pre-pandemic levels in 2022 and significantly outpace those levels in 2023. Data for 2024 illustrate a continued upward trend, bolstered by the impact of the solar eclipse, during which Downtown Buffalo was in the path of totality for 3 minutes and 45 seconds.

Our positioning within local markets empowers us to conduct primary interviews with key market participants. This approach ensures we obtain real-time insights and current data for each market we operate in. For more information about the Buffalo market or for help making informed investment decisions that align with your goals and risk tolerance, please contact Christian Cross, your local HVS Upstate New York hospitality expert.

About Christian Cross

As the Director overseeing HVS Buffalo and HVS Pittsburgh, Christian Cross has conducted appraisals and feasibility studies for hotels throughout the Northeast, Great Lakes, and Finger Lakes regions. Before joining HVS, Christian worked for the Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association, the Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview, and a luxury boutique hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Christian obtained a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Guelph and graduated as class valedictorian from the universitys School of Hospitality, Food, and Tourism Management. Contact Christian at +1 (828) 490-2274 or ccross@hvs.com.
International Travellers to Europe Prioritise Safety and Quality This Summer

Enthusiasm for travel is rising in key international markets, with 59% of respondents interested in overseas trips for summer 2024 - a notable 9% increase compared to 2019. Europe's appeal is gradually picking up, albeit at a slower pace, due to security and affordability concerns. Nevertheless, Europe remains a top destination choice, with 41% of surveyed individuals planning to visit this summer, down 4% from 2019 levels.

This is according to the latest Long-Haul Travel Barometer (LHTB) 2/2024 published today by the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail BV. Targeting 7000 travellers from seven major overseas markets  Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, and the US  this study analyses travel sentiment to Europe for the summer months, from May to August 2024.

Findings from the key markets include:

China and Brazil demonstrate the strongest intention to visit Europe this summer, with 62% and 52% of travellers planning a trip. In both countries, this number is largely driven by more affluent individuals.

and demonstrate the strongest intention to visit Europe this summer, with 62% and 52% of travellers planning a trip. In both countries, this number is largely driven by more affluent individuals. Travellers from the US and Canada exhibit a more cautious approach to European travel, with interest growing slightly since last year to 40% and 42% respectively.

and exhibit a more cautious approach to European travel, with interest growing slightly since last year to 40% and 42% respectively. Australia and South Korea show moderate enthusiasm, as interest sits at 37% and 35% respectively.

and show moderate enthusiasm, as interest sits at 37% and 35% respectively. Japan shows more limited interest at 19%, as travel recovery from this market continues to be slow.

shows more limited interest at 19%, as travel recovery from this market continues to be slow. Across all markets, younger travellers (ages 18-24 and 34-49) and those with higher incomes show the strongest preference for European trips.

Commenting following the publication of the LHTB 2/2024, ETC President Miguel Sanz, said: The positive trends we are recording in travel behaviour are a win-win for travellers and destinations. We are seeing an increased interest in longer stays, allowing tourists to develop a deeper connection with the local culture and support the businesses that make each destination unique. In addition, the openness to off-season travel presents a golden opportunity to spread tourism more evenly throughout the year. This can help reduce peak periods' social and environmental strain and better support destinations visitor economy.

Affordability takes a back seat in travel priorities

Safety has emerged as the top criterion for long-haul travellers when choosing a destination in Europe this summer. Nearly half (45%) of respondents prioritise European destinations perceived as secure, marking a 9% increase compared to summer 2022 and 6% since summer 2023. Quality tourism infrastructure places second (38%), followed by a 7% resurgence in the appeal of iconic landmarks, from 29% in summer 2023 to 36% in summer 2024.

Included in the survey for the first time, stable weather conditions is the top factor for 31% of respondents. Convenience also plays a notable role, with 20% of travellers opting for destinations which can be reached by a direct flight and 20% preferring a destination with good train connections to other places of interest.

While affordability remains a consideration for 23% of respondents, it has decreased from 32% last year. This shift indicates that travellers are increasingly focusing on quality and safety, valuing a smooth travel experience over strict budget limitations.

Travellers opting for multi-country trips as interest in longer holidays grows

67% of long-haul travellers to Europe are opting for multi-country itineraries. For international travel within Europe, full-service airlinesremain the preferred choice for 51% of respondents. Train passes emerge as the second most popular option (30%) due to their flexibility and cost-effectiveness in navigating multiple destinations. Low-cost airlines (29%) and single/return train tickets (24%) are also popular among budget-conscious travellers.

Conversely, 21% of respondents reported planning an in-depth visit of a single European country. For these domestic trips, single/return train tickets are the most popular choice (32%), offering a convenient and efficient way to travel between cities over short to medium distances. Travellers seeking more freedom and flexibility are instead opting for car rentals (29%).

Overall, travellers demonstrate a shift in priorities, with a growing desire for more immersive travel experiences. Despite the increasing popularity of mid-range daily budgets (100-200) since 2019 (+8%), there is also a greater interest in extended holidays. While one-to-two-week trips remain the most popular choice (57%), getaways exceeding two weeks have risen from 13% in 2019 to 21% in 2024.

Travellers split between responsible behaviours and prioritising familiarity

For the first time, the survey also delved deeper into traveller flexibility to explore certain travel behaviours associated with increased social and environmental sustainability. Notably, 53% of respondents reported being open to travelling to Europe during off-peak periods, attracted by potential cost savings and the opportunity to experience iconic attractions more intimately.

However, when it comes to choosing specific destinations and experiences, travellers often prioritise familiarity. 61% of respondents gravitate towards destinations with well-developed infrastructure and renowned attractions. While the allure of popular spots remains strong, 39% show interest in exploring lesser-known locations across Europe.

A similar preference for either new experiences or familiarity can be seen in how travellers interact with tourism businesses. Half of the respondents want to support local suppliers, while the remaining half prefer familiar accommodations, dining and shopping brands.

Download the report from ETC.
HEDNA Releases The State of Distribution Report



The survey was designed to tackle the hospitality industry's distribution challenges head-on and illuminate the path towards innovative solutions and a better guest experience.

In the past four years, the hospitality industry has navigated a complex journey, spurred on by new information sources, emerging technology, organizational shifts, and margin compression. In the midst of this quickly evolving landscape, we have been lacking a uniform view from the global hotelier perspective. To provide this holistic view, HEDNA, the Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitalitys HI Hub Experiential Learning Lab at NYU School of Professional Studies and RateGain joined forces to create a definitive resource. This report offers actionable insights to empower hoteliers, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities across different hotel segments.

Technology users in marketing, eCommerce, and revenue functions look outward to peers for solutions and strategic decision-making. This demand for insights has grown as traveler behavior evolves, using multiple platforms to search, plan, and book travel. Limited resources mean commercial teams must be strategic in capturing traveler intent and preferences, requiring close collaboration between marketing and distribution teams and the right technology.

The "State of Distribution" report is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in the hospitality industry. It covers strategic decision-making, technological prioritization, reducing manual efforts, organizational restructuring, and training and education. It is intended to be a living resource for continuous learning, adaptation, and growth, incorporating new insights and best practices with each iteration.

Download the report
Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony includes R.E.M. reunion

Icons and legends filled this years Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Here is a rundown of how the night went and which artists were added to this collection of influential talent.

by Stacy Simons Santos of Celebrity Access

The 2024 Songwriters Hall of Fame (SHOF) 53rd Annual Induction and Awards Dinner transformed New York into a hub of musical magic, celebrating the legends who write the soundtracks to our lives. Kicking off with opening remarks from SHOF Board Member and Show Committee Chair Evan Lamberg, the night honored an array of songwriting greats whose influence is immeasurable.

Paul Williams, Clive Davis & Diane Warren (Photo: L. Busacca/Getty Images for SHOF)

This years star-studded event saw the induction of musical luminaries, including Hillary Lindsey, Timbaland, Dean Pitchford, and the members of R.E.M.Bill Berry, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Michael Stipe. Steely Dans Walter Becker and Donald Fagan were also celebrated. Legendary songwriter Diane Warren was bestowed the coveted Johnny Mercer Award, while SZA took the Hal David Starlight Award. The night included a special tribute in Nashville for the late, great country songwriter Cindy Walker.

The evening was a spectacle from start to finish. It began with the 2024 Abe Olman Scholarship recipientsRodney Chrome, Molly Kate Kestner, Sierra Spirit Kihega, Ava Liv Mabry, and Matilda Marigoldsdelivering a rousing performance of Irene Caras Fame. This set the stage for 4-time GRAMMY winner Deniece Williams, who lit up the room with her 1984 hit Lets Hear It for the Boy from Footloose. Her performance led to the induction of Dean Pitchford, who was praised by The Bacon Brothers, Kevin and Michael, for his inspirational songwriting. Dean then captivated the audience with a heartfelt rendition of Once Before I Go.

Next, renowned manager Irving Azoff took the stage to honor Steely Dan, lauding them as one of the greatest bands ever. Phishs Trey Anastasio followed with a medley of their iconic hits, including Kid Charlemagne and Reelin In the Years, before inducting Fagan and Becker. Anastasio celebrated their unparalleled contributions to music, noting their songs are masterful and thought-provoking.

SZA/Nile Rodgers (Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for SHOF)

Nile Rodgers, SHOF Chairman and six-time GRAMMY winner, honored SZA with the Hal David Starlight Award, praising her songwriting as both ethereal and authentic. SZAs acoustic performance of Snooze from her album SOS was a poignant moment, and she expressed that the award validates [her] entire career.

Carrie Underwood (Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for SHOF)

The spotlight then shifted to Carrie Underwood, who electrified the room with Jesus Take the Wheel in tribute to Hillary Lindsey and hailed her as the queen of modern Nashville songwriting. Keith Urbanjoined for the induction and a touching duet of Blue Aint Your Color, showcasing Lindseys songwriting prowess with their stripped-down performance.

Missy Elliot brought infectious energy to the room as she inducted her long-time collaborator, Timbaland,acknowledging his transformative impact on hip-hop. Timbaland called the induction the best award [he] could ever get and thrilled the crowd with a medley of his hits, including Big Pimpin, SexyBack, and Get Your Freak On.

R.E.M.s induction was a nostalgic highlight. Jason Isbell introduced the band with a fiery performance of Its the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine). The band reunited for the first time in 15 years, delivering a captivating rendition of their classic Losing My Religion, which had the audience spellbound.

Original Lineup of REM (Photo: L. Busacca/Getty Images for SHOF)

The evenings pinnacle came with the presentation of the Johnny Mercer Award to Warren, presented by Paul Williams. Warren, revered for her songwriting talent, was celebrated by Andra Days soaring performance of Stand Up for Something, which added emotional depth to the night. Warren encapsulated the essence of the event by saying, Songwriting isnt something I do; its who I am. The ceremony concluded on a high note with El DeBarges electrifying performance of Rhythm of the Night, marking the songs 40th anniversary and bringing everyone to their feet for a triumphant close.

It was a night of unforgettable performances and heartfelt tributes, celebrating the timeless art of songwriting and the creators behind the music we cherish.

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On a IV-II Vote, Mount Greylock Keeps Latin Program

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  A divided Mount Greylock Regional School Committee on Tuesday voted to restore the middle-high school's Latin program for the 2024-25 academic year and beyond.

Six members of the committee attended the special meeting called last week to decide on whether to keep Mount Greylock a two-world language school or only offer Spanish to incoming seventh-graders starting in the fall.

Steven Miller moved at the outset of Tuesday's session that the School Committee utilize more or less $66,000 from the committee's reserves to close a funding gap for fiscal year 2025 and commit to funding Latin until at least next year's seventh-graders have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement Latin, presumably in their senior year of 2029-30.

Miller was joined by Jose Constantine, Curtis Elfenbein and Ursula Maloy in voting in favor of the plan. Christina Conry and Carolyn Greene voted against Miller's motion.

Conry noted that in the school year that just ended, Mount Greylock had just 58 students enrolled in Latin across six different grade levels (an average of just fewer than 10 per grade), as opposed to 300 students studying Spanish.

Prior to this spring's announcement that the school would not offer Latin 7 (for seventh-graders) or Latin 8 in 2024-25, there were 15 students signed up for the former and just 10 for the latter.

Historically, over the last nine years, Mount Greylock's student population studying the classic language went from 103 in 2015-16 to 58 last year, with a spike of 148 in the 2018-19 academic year, according to figures the administration provided the School Committee on Tuesday.

Before voting on the only item on the agenda for the special meeting, members of the committee reiterated many of the same arguments they raised in last Thursday's monthly meeting and referenced the many emails and direct appeals that community members have made to preserve Latin.

Both Miller and Constantine emphasized the process by which the administration arrived at the decision to trim the Latin program after a budget shortfall emerged subsequent to its passage by the School Committee in March.

"I think  just my opinion  that any curricular decision needs to involve our Student Councils, our parents and caregivers, our students and our community members," Constantine said. "The way this decision was made did not allow for any discussion.

"It could be incoming years that, via our budget process, we're faced with choices we have to make. But making those decisions without consulting community members and parents and caregivers is just not the way to do it."

Greene and Conry both characterized Tuesday's vote as a painful decision, and each said they would have liked to be able to support continuing the Latin program if budget realities allowed.

"Keeping one Latin [full-time equivalent teaching position, or FTE] for what was 57 Latin students last year and would have been 43 students this coming year requires that the three teachers who are teaching the rest of our students teach Spanish each teach additional classes" Greene said. "It is difficult to justify resources for a single teacher while already overtaxing our Spanish teachers.

"One Latin FTE forces three extended contracts in Spanish. Or, put another way, we need 3.6 Spanish FTEs, with only three instructors, in order to provide one FTE in Latin in Latin. That's the $65,000 we're talking about  three extended contracts and the administrative and guidance work it's going to require to reverse course right now."

Interim Superintendent Joseph Bergeron told the committee that, typically, one teacher in middle-high school instructs between 100 and 125 students over the course of a school year.

"Latin was one area where a teacher was serving students in the 40s and 50s total," Bergeron said.

That is partly why Latin came on the chopping block when the administration was faced with a budget hole brought about by lower than expected savings from retirements and departures, which fell short of the projections the district made this winter.

Maloy, who did not attend Thursday's meeting where about a dozen people addressed the School Committee urging it to save the Latin program, said she did read the many emails the panel received.

"I do think after giving this a lot of thought, I like [Miller's] position of committing to fund this for the year and incoming students and taking a more holistic approach to what we should or should not fund in the future," Maloy said. "I'd like to agree with funding it for this year  and take another look next year at what we should do for the long term."

Bergeron, just before the vote, pointed to a feature of the motion on the table that would, in theory, prevent the district from having a full discussion of future options for at least five more budget cycles.

"One thing that I caution you with the motion that is on the floor: You would be placing Latin into a position that no other subject is in in terms of being protected for many years," Bergeron said. "And if you're faced with a couple of hundred thousand dollars in budget deficit, to somehow have taken Latin off the discussion table that we should be having at the School Council level  I don't understand how that decision would be responsible."

Miller shot back that guaranteeing the availability of Latin is the "only responsible thing we can do" for parents thinking of enrolling their rising seventh-graders in Latin 7 for the 2024-25 school year.

After the 4-2 vote to deplete the district's reserves to keep the language program alive, Bergeron said that Mount Greylock's guidance department was prepared for such a decision and would immediately start reaching out to the families of rising seventh- and eighth-graders to talk about their new options.
LENOX, Mass.  18 Degrees will host their Kids 4 Harmony Summer Gala Concert on June 25, 5:30 PM, at Seiji Ozawa Hall, Tanglewood.

The evening will begin with a reception followed by performances starting at 7:00 PM. Over 50 Kids 4 Harmony students will be involved, and there will be a special piece featuring Boston Symphony Orchestra Cellist Owen Young.

Carolyn and Eli Newberger will be honored for their dedication to the program, in addition to the commitment they have made to child welfare and the power of music. The evening's program includes pieces by Bohm, Meyer, Price, and Couperin, as well as an original composition by one of the K4H student musicians.

The concert will close with a special performance of Che-Yi Lee's Dancing Strings by current students, alumni, and teaching artists.

Kids 4 Harmony, an after-school program based at Morningside Community School in Pittsfield and Brayton Elementary School in North Adams, is inspired by Venezuela's El Sistema, an ensemble-based musical approach with a social justice mission.

Through Kids 4 Harmony, students have access to music instruction, performance opportunities, and family support at no cost.
To mark the 25th anniversary of its foundation, Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, is launching a global campaign in celebration of both this key milestone and the next generation of young leaders committed to building a fairer, low-carbon society.

25 Years Young: A Celebration of Youth and 25 Years of Action

Founded in 1999 under the aegis of the Fondation de France, the Schneider Electric Foundation supports changemakers driving sustainable development, promoting social inclusion, and empowering communities worldwide. Throughout 2024, the foundation will celebrate the worlds youth by raising awareness of their social and environmental impact and mobilizing the support of company employees. The high point of these celebrations is the launch of a global call for contributions with the foundations social entrepreneurship partner, Ashoka.

Ever since its creation, the Schneider Electric Foundation has been a pioneer in supporting positive initiatives to tackle growing social and environmental challenges and many innovations are driven by young people from around the world. The foundation supports them in making an impact for a fairer energy transition and is honoring them on its 25th anniversary.

Youth Innovation For A Sustainable Future: A Global Call for Contributions

The call for contributions titled Youth Innovation For A Sustainable Future with Ashokas program Changemaker Companies aims to select 25 of the most impactful and innovative youth projects across all five continents (Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East). This global call for contributions focuses on professional engagement and a fair transition, and a 50,000-euro prize will be awarded to the winning project during the COP29 climate summit in Bakou, Azerbaidjan. Those projects selected will also benefit from increased visibility across the social media channels of both Schneider Electrics Foundation and Ashokas network of countries. In the Philippines, the call for contributions will be launched on June 17, 2024. Entries can be submitted through the programs website at https://volunteerin.se.com/#/youth-innovation-for-sustainable-future.

Schneider Electric Foundation has been dedicated to driving sustainable development for the last 25 years by promoting social inclusion and empowering the youth to champion positive change, said Norman Roland Ocana III, Head of Government Affairs and Sustainability of Schneider Electric Philippines. We commemorate this momentous milestone, with our strengthened commitment to support NGOs and Foundations who work with the next generation on various initiatives focused on just transition, awareness and inclusion, professional training in energy management, entrepreneurship and gender."
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Noam Chomsky's wife, Valeria Wasserman Chomsky, has debunked reports Tuesday that the famed linguist has died.

No, it is false, she wrote Tuesday in response to an emailed query from The Associated Press. He is well, she added to ABC.

Chomsky, 95, has been hospitalized in Brazil while recovering from a stroke suffered a year ago, his wife confirmed last week.

Earlier on Tuesday, Chomsky was trending on X as false reports of his death abounded. Jacobin and The New Statesman published obituaries for Chomsky, though the former changed its headline from We remember Noam Chomsky to Let's Celebrate Noam Chomsky. The New Statesman took its essay by former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis down altogether.

Valeria told the Associated Press via email last week, that the MIT professor is currently in a Sao Paulo hospital. The couple traveled on an ambulance jet with two nurses once he was well enough to leave the United States.

Valeria confirmed reports in Brazilian newspaper Folha de S Paulo, that her husband had difficulty speaking and that the right side of his body is affected. She said that a neurologist, speech therapist and lung specialist visit the academic on a daily basis.

open image in gallery Noam Chomsky is well, according to his wife ( AP )

Chomsky, who has been vocal about his support for the Palestinian cause and what he has called the crimes of the Israeli state, had been notably absent from demonstrations and discussions on the issue over the last year.

The famed intellectual is still following the news and his wife confirmed that he raises his left arm in a gesture of lament and anger when he sees images of the war in Gaza.

Valeria, who married the professor in 2014, also told Folha de S Paulo that she is thinking about moving to an apartment near the beach in Rio de Janeiro after reading that living in a sunny place can help stroke patients.

It comes after a post shared by Media Lens last week, revealed that the MIT professor is unlikely to ever return to the public eye following the deterioration of his health.

The Chomskys have had a residence in Brazil since 2015. Chomsky, known to millions for his criticisms of US foreign policy, taught for decades at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In 2017, he joined the College of Social & Behavioral Sciences at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

Additional reporting by The Associated Press
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Jerry Seinfeld mocked a pro-Palestinian heckler who interrupted his comedy set over the weekend in Sydney, Australia.

A video shared on X shows the protester briefly disrupting the Seinfeld creators routine at the Qudos Bank Arena on Sunday, shouting: From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.

As the heckler was escorted out by security, Seinfeld called him a m****. We have a genius, ladies and gentlemen. He solved the Middle East! Seinfeld quipped.

Its the Jewish comedians, that is who we have to get! Theyre the ones doing everything.

As the heckler continued chanting Palestine will be free, Seinfeld added, Go ahead, keep going! Theyre going to start punching you in about three seconds so I would try to get all of your genius out so we can all learn from you.

Its a comedy show, you m****! Get out of here.

Youre really influencing everyone here. Were all on your side now, because youve made your point so well, and in the right venue, youve come to the right place for a political conversation.

Tomorrow we will read in the paper, Middle East 100 per cent solved thanks to man at the Qudos Arena stopping the Jew comedian.

You have to go 20,000 miles from the problem and screw up a comedian. That is how you solve world issues.

The American comedian is an outspoken supporter of Israel and has defended the West Asian nation through the war in Gaza.

Israels air and ground assault on Gaza has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians, a majority of whom were women and children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health. Most of the territorys homes, schools, hospitals and places of worship have been reduced to rubble, and a majority of the 2.3 million population have been left homeless, and without adequate food supplies amid warnings of potential famine.

The assault started after Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel on 7 October and killed around 1,200 soldiers and civilians and took nearly 250 people hostage.

The Israelis have also killed over 500 Palestinians in the West Bank since October and destroyed some 115 Palestinian homes.

Seinfeld visited Israel in December to meet the families of the hostages. He also signed an open letter in support of Israel.

The Qudos Bank Arena incident isnt the first time Seinfeld has been confronted by protesters rallying against Israels war. Students walked out on Seinfeld at Duke University as he was about to deliver the commencement speech in May and his show in Norfolk, New Jersey, that same month was disrupted by pro-Palestinian hecklers.

Seinfeld has described the protestors as being off target.

I love that these young people, they are trying to get engaged with politics. We have to just correct their aim a little bit. They dont seem to understand that, as comedians, we really dont control anything, he said on the podcast Honestly.

Its so silly. Its like, they want to express this sincere, intense rage. But again, a little off target.

So thats, to me, comedic.

This article was amended on 20 June 2024 to attribute the Gaza casualty figures to the Ministry of Health.
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Morgan Freeman has dismissed the idea of Black History Month, saying: My history is American history.

The 87-year-old The Shawshank Redemption and Seven star had previously called the annual event, which is observed throughout February, an insult.

In a new interview with Variety, Freeman elaborated on those feelings. I detest it, he said. The mere idea of it. You are going to give me the shortest month in a year? And you are going to celebrate my history?! This whole idea makes my teeth itch. Its not right.

He added: My history is American history. Its the one thing in this world I am interested in, beyond making money, having a good time and getting enough sleep.

Freeman is currently promoting The Gray House, a Civil War-era historical drama he produced alongside Kevin Costner. The Roland Joffe-directed series, which stars Mary-Louise Parker, Amethyst Davis, Daisy Head and Ben Vereen, was shown at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival last week.

If you dont know your past, if you dont remember it, you are bound to repeat it, commented Freeman.

Morgan Freeman in Monte-Carlo in June 2024 ( Getty Images )

The Gray House, which is based on a true story, explores the secret work carried out by Union spies during the Civil War.

Its so wide-ranging, said Freeman. There are so many people in the series, because we are acknowledging they were there. If you can do that, if you are given space to do that, bravo. It didnt just happen to one group of people.

Earlier this year, Freeman was one of a group of fictional former presidents to offer advice to President Joe Biden ahead of his State of the Union address.

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In a post on X/Twitter, the US president wrote: You mayve heard Ive got a big speech coming up. So, I thought I would hear from some folks who have done the job before  sort of.

Along with Freeman, Biden also spoke to Bill Pullman (President Whitmore from Independence Day), Michael Douglas (President Shepherd from The American President), Geena Davis (President Allen from Commander in Chief) and Tony Goldman (President Grant from Scandal).

Freeman, who played President Beck in the disaster movie Deep Impact, told Biden: Well sir, in my capacity as president, all I had to deal with was a meteor.

He added: My advice is just keep telling us how youre working for us and building hope.
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Rock star Liam Gallagher has expressed his disgruntlement with Just Stop Oil protesters who doused the ancient ruins of Stonehenge with orange paint.

The climate activists took part in the action on Wednesday (19 June), as they demanded the next government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.

Video footage of the protest shows two people in Just Stop Oil t-shirts, named by the group as Rajan Naidu, 73, and Niamh Lynch, 21, running up to the ancient structure with canisters of orange powder paint.

The former Oasis star turned to social media to share this thoughts on the defacement as he warned, Dont f*** with the stones man, they have mystical powers. Hope they all wake up tmoz and are all orange toads.

The action comes ahead of the summer solstice on Thursday (20 June), the longest day of the year and traditionally a spiritually significant period at the site. The stones are considered to be an epicentre of special energy, visited by druids and pagans. Thousands were expected to descend on the site to celebrate the event.

Lynch, a student from Oxford, said: Stonehenge at solstice is all about celebrating the natural world  but look at the state its in! We all have a right to live a life free from suffering, but continued burning of oil, coal and gas is leading to death and suffering on an unparalleled scale.

Its time for us to think about what our civilisation will leave behind  what is our legacy? Standing inert for generations works well for stones  not climate policy.

open image in gallery Gallagher hoped the protesters would wake up as orange toads ( Getty Images/ PA )

Gallagher was joined by prime minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer in condemnation of the protest.

Sunak said that the campaign group should be ashamed of their activists while Starmer added, The damage done to Stonehenge is outrageous. Just Stop Oil are pathetic. Those responsible must face the full force of the law.

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Wiltshire Police said officers had attended the scene and arrested two people.

Gallagher is currently on a solo tour around the UK to mark the the 30th anniversary of his bands debut album, Definitely, Maybe.

His comments come amid escalating rumours of the bands reunion.
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The lawyer for real Martha Fiona Harvey, has demanded the release of thousands of emails and messages ahead of a lawsuit seeking a potential $50m (39m) for a series of allegations against Netflix.

Richard Roth, representing the 58-year-old, hit out at the streaming giant for billing Baby Reindeer as a true story and demanded to see the emails, messages, and proof of conviction, that the show purports to be based on.

The seven-part series, written by and starring comedian Richard Gadd, follows Donny Dunn as he is relentlessly harassed and stalked by a woman named Martha Scott (Jessica Gunning), who he meets while working in a pub in Camden.

Internet sleuths soon tracked down the real Martha, prompting Fiona Harvey to defend herself in an interview with Piers Morgan, in which she confirmed she would be suing Gadd and Netflix.

They better have those hours of voicemails, they better have 41,000 messages, Roth, Harveys legal representative, said in in an interview with Good Morning Britain on Wednesday (19 June).

Im telling you we dont have it, I dont believe they have them. Then thats where Netflix fails. You say, in the show theres 41,000 emails, let me see them. You say theres this many tweets, let me see them. You say theres this many hours of messages, let me see it, he continued.

Theyre going to have to come up with it, because we have not seen anywhere near that amount and Fiona stands by her statement.

Although the US attorney said that they disputed everything claimed in the show, he added, Even if some of it is true, this is a true story, that does not give them the licence to make some false [statements] and some truths.

The Independent has contacted Netflix for comment.

open image in gallery Fiona Harveys lawyer, Richard Roth, demanded to see the evidence ( Good Morning Britain/ Piers Morgan Uncensored )

Reflecting on the shows portrayal of Martha Scott as a convicted stalker, Roth said. Saying she is a convicted felon and she wasnt, then that is defamation. You cant say someone is convicted when they werent.

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According to documents seen by The Independent, Harvey has accused Netflix of defamation, negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and violations of right of publicity among other allegations.

Netflix remained silent on the subject  but after Harvey filed her lawsuit against the service, a spokesperson said: We intend to defend this matter vigorously and to stand by Richard Gadds right to tell his story.
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Saturday Night Live creator Lorne Michaels has revealed why he thinks some comedians cant handle being on the show.

The sketch comedy series has been running for nearly 50 years, giving stars including Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers, Bill Murray, Robert Downey Jr, and Amy Poehler their big break. Its known for poking fun at celebrities and providing satirical political commentary, including reactions to former US president Donald Trumps hush-money trial.

But the 79-year-old TV writer and film producer has said not everyone is cut out for it.

If you were the funniest kid in the class, or your school, and then youre working professionally and everyone else in the room is that, Michaels told the New York Times. It can be upsetting or can be really stimulating.

Michaels, who is the most Emmy-nominated individual in the award shows history, added that the ensuing exposure is difficult to handle for some.

No one can handle the fame. Generally, were more tolerant of it, he continued. But you know people are going to turn into a**holes. Because its just part of that process, because no one grew up that way.

He also gave advice to those eager to leave the programme to do TV work and movies.

Build a bridge to the next thing, and when its solid enough, walk across. But dont leave on the first thing, because you dont know whats really out there.

While the cast for the forthcoming 50th season of SNL has not been announced, the Tonight Show producer continued to shut down rumours that he would be retiring.

open image in gallery Michaels shut down rumours he would be retiring ( Getty Images )

Im going to do it as long as I feel I can do it. But I rely on other people and always have, he said.

Michaels left the show in 1980 to pursue other opportunities, but eventually returned in 1985 after some of his replacements endured a series of bad reviews.

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He appears to have a close relationship with his stars, with John Mulaney recently sharing the advice the writer gave him during his struggle with addiction.

Michaels reminded Mulaney of the death of John Belushi, one of the original cast members of the long-running NBC programme. Belushi was 33-years-old when he died of an accidental drug overdose of heroin and cocaine following a days-long binge in 1982.

The 41-year-old opened up about his recovery during an interview on David Lettermans new Netflix show, My Next Guest Needs No Introduction.

Having checked himself into rehab in December 2020, Mulaney received an hour-long phone call from Michaels in which the boss offered a warning.

He goes, I knew John Belushi for seven years. Ive been talking about him for 48 years, because thats the shrapnel that happens when someone goes down like that, Mulaney told Letterman.
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The cast of The Walking Dead are paying tribute to the shows canine star.

It was announced by the AMC series, which ended in 2022, that Seven, who played Daryls imaginatively named loyal companion Dog, had died.

The social media post, which hailed Belgian shepherd Seven as The Walking Deads best boy, inspired tributes from several of the shows stars, including Daryl actor Norman Reedus.

Gonna miss u seven, the actor, who currently stars in his own spin-off series, called Daryl Dixon, wrote on Instragram. After sharing several photos of himself with Seven, he posted a broken-heart emoji and added: Best TV buddy ever.

Other actors who paid tribute to Seven included Khary Payton, who played Ezekiel, and Lynn Collins, who starred as the villainous Leah.

Meanwhile, the series former showrunner Angela Kang re-shared the original post, adding a crying-face emoji.

Seven made his first appearance in the shows ninth season. He appeared in 25 episodes in all.

Speaking to ComicBook.com about working with the canine star, Reedus said in 2018: We just did a scene the other day that ended up being the opposite of what it was supposed to be because the dog just wanted to do something else, and it came out so much better.

Hell probably be running the show. Its great! I love it. He loves me, too.

open image in gallery Norman Reedus and Seven as Daryl and Dog in The Walking Dead ( AMC )

The Walking Dead drew to a close in 2022 after 11 seasons.

To date, the series has had six spin-offs, one of which, The Walking Dead: Dead City, focuses on the characters Maggie (Lauren Cohan) and Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan).

The most recent spin-off, The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live, reunited lead characters Rick (Andrew Lincoln) and Michonne (Danai Gurira); its currently available to stream in the UK on NOW.

In The Ones Who Live, viewers find Rick and Michonne still trying to find their way back to each other after being physically separated for years (or since the shows ninth season finale, when Lincoln departed).

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Lincoln is best known for his role as Mark, who is in love with Keira Knightleys Juliet, in the 2003 romcom Love Actually.

Director Richard Curtis has since opened up about the famous scene in which Mark turns up at Juliets door with cue cards to reveal his feelings, telling The Independent: I think its a bit weird. I mean, I remember being taken by surprise about seven years ago, I was going to be interviewed by somebody and they said, Of course, were mainly interested in the stalker scene, and I said, What scene is that? And then I was, like, educated in it, he said.

All I can say is that a lot of intelligent people were involved in the film at the time, and we didnt think it was a stalker scene, he added. But if its interesting or funny for different reasons [now] then, you know, God bless our progressive world.

Season two of Daryl Dixon  titled The Book of Carol  will star Reedus alongside Carol actor Melissa McBride.

Read The Independents ranking of The Walking Deads best characters here.
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The US has approved arms sales worth $360m to Taiwan, a decision that is likely to escalate tensions with China.

The Joe Biden administration will supply Taiwan with hundreds of armed drones, missile equipment, and related support material.

The drone package includes 291 Altius 600M systems, which are unmanned aerial vehicles with warheads, and 720 Switchblades, which function as extended-range loitering munitions, the State Department said.

The sale serves US national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipients continuing efforts to modernise its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability, it said.

The weapons package will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region.

The sale comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

open image in gallery Taiwan president Lai Ching-te ( EPA )

Taiwans president last week accused China of seeing the annexation and elimination of the island as its great national cause.

In his inaugural speech in May, Lai Ching-te had urged China to accept the reality of Taiwans de facto independence.

In response to Mr Lais inauguration as president, China conducted significant military exercises around the island.

Beijing has labelled Mr Lai a dangerous separatist.

China considers Taiwan a part of its territory and president Xi Jinping has threatened to reunite the island with the mainland by force if necessary, while the democratically-elected government of Taiwan says only the islands people can choose their future.

Beijings claim to be the only legitimate Chinese government is known as the One China Principle, and this has been accepted or acknowledged by all but a handful of nations who would otherwise risk being cut off from trading with the mainland. The US formally acknowledges the One China Principle but maintains close informal relations with Taiwan, and does not accept Beijings claim to sovereignty over the island.

According to the Financial Times, Chinese leader Xi Jinping told European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen that the US was goading Beijing to attack Taiwan.

This article was amended on 25 June 2024 to clarify the status of the One China Principle. An earlier version incorrectly referred to this as the One China Policy.
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Vladimir Putin has signed a deal with Kim Jong-un that includes a mutual defence pact if either Russia or North Korea is attacked  a move that will alarm Western nations.

Desperate for ammunition and other weapons to fuel his invasion of Ukraine, Putin has sought to deepen ties with another international pariah also under heavy sanctions during his first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years. Kim and Putin signed what they described as the strongest ever treaty during the Russian leaders trip. The deal, which the leaders said covered areas including security, trade, investment, and cultural and humanitarian ties, could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War.

The courting of Kim, which includes gifts of limousines and the strategic partnership pact, has alarmed the United States and its Asian allies. Their spy agencies are trying to work out just how far the 71-year-old Kremlin chief will go  and what missile or even nuclear technology Russia might pass to North Korea in exchange for munitions to fight in Ukraine.

The devil will be in the detail of the Russia-North Korea deal, which has not been released. But it will add to the insecurity in nations such as South Korea and Japan about the growing tensions between Washington and its allies and the emerging axis of China, Russia and North Korea. While China has kept itself out of trilateral deals so far, Beijing is North Koreas largest trading partner and Putin has also sought to maximise his political relations with President Xi Jinping.

Kim said the two countries had a fiery friendship and that the deal was their strongest ever treaty, putting the relationship at the level of an alliance. He vowed full support for Russias war in Ukraine. Putin called it a breakthrough document, reflecting shared desires to move relations to a higher level.

Kim offered a red carpet welcome to Putin, greeting the Russian leader with a hug at the airport on Tuesday night. They left in the same limousine to the Kumsusan State Guest House.

open image in gallery Putin and Kim attend an official welcoming ceremony during their meeting in Pyongyang ( EPA )

Putin was welcomed on Wednesday morning in a ceremony at the citys main square, filled with what appeared to be tens of thousands of spectators, including children with balloons and people in coordinated T-shirts of the red, white and blue national colours of both countries. Crowds lining the streets waved flowers and flags and chanted: Welcome Putin.

Putin and Kim saluted an honour guard and walked across a red carpet. Kim introduced key members of his leadership including foreign minister Choe Son Hui, top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won, and the leaders powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong.

The two leaders held one-to-one talks for about two hours, according to reports, and hosted a lavish ceremony for the guests. Kim called the Russian leader the most honest friend and ally of North Korea and referred to him as the dearest friend of the Korean people.

open image in gallery The two leaders ride in an Aurus car, a gift from Putin to his host ( EPA )

Putin thanked Kim for his support for the Ukraine war, part of what he said was a fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

The two had a friendly chat and exchanged their pent-up inmost thoughts, state media said. The Russian delegation included foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, first deputy prime minister Denis Manturov, and defence minister Andrei Belousov. Other top officials were the health and transport ministers and the head of Russias space agency.

The two leaders exchanged gifts after the talks. Putin presented Kim with a Russian-made Aurus limousine and other gifts, including a tea set and a naval officers dagger. Mr Kims presents to Putin included artworks depicting the Russian leader.

Mr Putin also drove Mr Kim in the limousine during the visit, Russian state TV showed.

open image in gallery The leaders had a friendly chat and exchanged their pent-up inmost thoughts, state media said ( via Reuters )

Western nations hit out at the visit before the signing of the deal. In Washington, US secretary of state Antony Blinken said Putins visit to North Korea illustrates how Russia tries, "in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine."

Nato secretary general Jens Stoltenberg said Putins visit showed he was dependent on authoritarian leaders for support.

Their closest friends and the biggest supporters of the Russian war effort  war of aggression  [are] North Korea, Iran and China, he said.

open image in gallery The new deal has alarmed the United States and its Asian allies ( Sputnik )

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Kims efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking US-led efforts to impose fresh UN sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

In March, a Russian veto in the Security Council ended monitoring of UN sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear programme, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang.

Dr Colin Alexander, a political communications expert at Nottingham Trent University, told The Independent that Russia-North Korea ties are not as close as they were during the Cold War. But it is the desperate need for support that has pushed Moscow into the embrace of Pyongyang.

Russia is currently struggling for international support, with the UN and most of the international community disapproving of its actions in Ukraine. A global power in a situation like this is more likely to reach out to whoever is willing, he said.
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The Demilitarized Zone between the two rival Koreas might be the most heavily armed place on earth. Two million mines, barbed wire fences, tank traps and tens of thousands of troops from both countries patrol a divided swath of land 248 kilometers (154 miles) long and 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) wide.

So how, on the eve of Russian President Vladimir Putins summit Wednesday with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, did as many as 30 North Korean soldiers wander over the line separating North from South, causing South Korea to fire warning shots before the North Koreans withdrew?

open image in gallery In this undated photo provided on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, by South Korea Defense Ministry, North Korean soldiers work at an undisclosed location near the border area, as seen from a South Korean guard area ( South Korea Defense Ministry )

The short answer appears to be shrubbery: Because of an overgrowth of foliage, the North Koreans may not have seen the signs marking the thin military demarcation line that divides the DMZ into northern and southern sides.

But, more deeply, it can also be understood in light of the long, often violent history of the unique border set up after the 1950-53 Korean War. It ended with an armistice, instead of a peace treaty, leaving the Korean Peninsula divided, and technically still in a state of war.

open image in gallery North Korean soldiers work at an undisclosed location near the border area, as seen from a South Korean guard area ( South Korea Defense Ministry )

On Tuesday, South Korean troops broadcast warnings and fired warning shots to turn back North Korean soldiers  somewhere between 20 to 30  who briefly crossed the demarcation line in the DMZ.

The North Koreans, who had been doing construction work in the area, immediately retreated, and the Souths military didnt spot any suspicious activity after that, the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Seoul said.

It was the second such incident in two weeks.

Neither incursion was an invasion, or even a maneuver meant to test the Souths defenses, Seoul says, but more likely an accident.

When North Korean soldiers briefly crossed a different part of the line on June 11, the same scenario played out: Warning shots from the South; a North Korean withdrawal.

What does the demarcation line look like?

The demarcation line, in many parts of the DMZ, is simply a sign mounted on a stick or a slice of concrete.

People have stepped across it before, under very special circumstances, and usually at the border village of Panmunjom. Former U.S. President Donald Trump walked across with Kim Jong Un. Last year an American soldier facing possible military discipline dashed over the line to the North.

open image in gallery North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump inside the demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating the South and North Korea on June 30, 2019 ( Getty Images )

Outside of Panmunjom, much of the DMZ is wilderness, but it is heavily monitored on both sides. And while the demarcation line may be easily crossed, it is very difficult to do so without being spotted immediately.

The southern side of the land border is protected not only by thousands of soldiers, guns and mines, but also by a dense network of cameras, motion sensors and other high-tech surveillance equipment. Breaches are very rare and are usually detected quickly. Defections from the North are also unusual along the North-South land border, though they have happened with frequency along the porous China-North Korea border and occasionally in the Yellow Sea.

open image in gallery South Korean soldiers fired warning shots to repel North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the rivals' land border Tuesday for the second time this month, South Korea's military said ( South Korea Defense Ministry )

The Norths accidental intrusions this month may have been caused by a sudden jump in North Korean troops fortifying their side of the border.

Because overgrown trees and plants may have been obscuring the signs marking the demarcation line, Seoul says, the North Korean troops may have stepped over the line without knowing it.

Why are so many North Koreans working in the DMZ?

Relations between the rival Koreas are worse now than in many years.

Recent weeks have seen a tit-for-tat standoff that has resulted in Cold War-style psychological warfare. Both sides have said they are no longer bound by their landmark military agreement in 2018 to reduce tensions.

The North Koreans along the border, Seoul says, have been installing what appear to be anti-tank barriers, reinforcing roads and planting land mines, even as mine explosions have killed or wounded an unspecified number of North Korean soldiers.

The construction started around April and may be an attempt to curb North Koreans trying to defect to the South.

Could it happen again?

Possibly, especially if the North Korean construction continues along the demarcation line.

But both sides appear intent on containing their animosities to the psychological warfare theyre engaging in.

Still, there are worries that the hostilities are pushing them closer to a direct military clash. The Koreas have had no meaningful talks for years and could find it difficult to set up dialogue as tensions rise over the Norths development of nuclear-capable weapons.

Some analysts say the Koreas poorly marked western sea boundary  site of skirmishes and attacks in past years  is more likely to be a crisis point than the land border.

open image in gallery Russia's President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un attend a meeting in Pyongyang, North Korea June 19, 2024 ( via REUTERS )

Kim, during a fiery speech in January, reiterated that his country does not recognize the Northern Limit Line in the Yellow Sea, which was drawn up by the U.S.-led U.N. Command at the end of the war. North Korea insists on a boundary that encroaches deeply into South Korea-controlled waters.

While the huge military presence on both sides of the DMZ means that years sometimes pass without incident, violence can quickly erupt. Two American Army officers were axed to death in 1976 by North Korean soldiers, for instance.
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The Taliban should be held accountable for violating womens rights in Afghanistan and its gender apartheid should be codified as a crime under international law, a UN special rapporteur has said.

Richard Bennett, who is responsible for monitoring specific human rights in Afghanistan, told the UN Human Rights Council on Tuesday that the Talibans pattern of systematic violations of fundamental rights of girls and women has intensified.

Afghanistan marked 1,000 days of the Talibans ban on adolescent girls and women attending school earlier this month.

Female civil servants, who are prohibited from attending work, were told last week that their salaries would be cut to the lowest levels regardless of experience or qualification.

The Talibans institutionalisation of its system of oppression of women and girls, and the harms that its continuing to entrench, should shock the conscience of humanity, Mr Bennett said while presenting his latest report on the human rights situation in Afghanistan.

These violations are so severe and extensive that they appear to form a widespread and systematic attack on a civilian population which may amount to crimes against humanity. This attack is not only ongoing, it is intensifying.

Although gender apartheid was not yet codified as a crime against humanity, Mr Bennett said, it most accurately denotes the institutionalised oppression that characterises Taliban governance.

Codification of gender apartheid as a crime against humanity would properly reflect its status as a crime that shocks the conscience of humanity and violates jus cogens, a peremptory norm of international law.

An unnamed Afghan woman also addressed the council from a remote location.

She claimed that many young women were taking their lives or getting married to older men against their will because they had nothing to do and nowhere to go. We Afghan girls are like birds with broken wings, she said.

A delegation of Afghan activists who attended the councils session with Mr Bennett in Geneva slammed the Talibans mehram diktat, which reportedly prohibits women from going out in public without male chaperones.

Mr Bennett called on the Taliban to take immediate steps to reverse their system of gender oppression which deprives women and girls of their fundamental rights.

He called for an international mechanism to hold the Taliban accountable. This approach includes the use of international accountability mechanisms such as the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice as well as pursuing cases at the national level under the principle of universal jurisdiction, he said.

He also asked for the UN and its member nations to not exclude women and civil society activists from the upcoming Doha talks and remain committed to feminist foreign policies. The third round of the Doha talks, intended to set out a course for international engagement with Afghanistan, is scheduled to be held at the end of this month. The Taliban wasnt included in the first round and refused to join the second in February after the UN rejected its demand to act as Afghanistans sole official representative.

The Taliban, seeking international recognition as the legitimate rulers of Afghanistan, have confirmed their participation in the third round.

Afghan activists feared the Taliban would agree to join the talks only if they are excluded.

The Special Rapporteur is concerned that Afghan women have been all but absent from the deliberations concerning the countrys future, including meetings in Doha, in contradiction to the international obligations assumed under the women, peace and security agenda, Mr Bennett said in his report.
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Thailand has become the first country in southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage after the countrys senate cleared the final reading of marriage equality law on Tuesday.

The historic legislation, which passed the lower house of parliament in March, has been welcomed as a monumental step forward by activists and politicians who have been rallying for it for more than two decades.

We are very proud to make history, said Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, member of a parliamentary panel on same-sex marriage.

Today love triumphed over prejudice. After fighting for over 20 years, today we can say that this country has marriage equality.

The bill received near unanimous support in the senate, just as it had in the lower house, and is set to be approved by King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

The law will come into effect 120 days after it is published in the royal gazette.

open image in gallery Members of the LGBTQ community celebrate after the Thai parliament passed the final senatorial vote on the same-sex marriage bill at Government House in Bangkok ( AFP via Getty )

Shortly after the law was passed, celebrations broke out at Thailands parliament where lawmakers and activists waved rainbow flags and cheered and some raised their fists in solidarity.

Thailand is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture. It is now the third country in Asia, after Taiwan and Nepal, to grant the legal right to marriage to same-sex couples.

The countrys prime minister said last year his administration would grant same-sex couples the exact same equal rights as heterosexual couples. A marriage certificate would allow them a range of benefits, including healthcare and inheritance rights, that they have long been denied.

This would underscore Thailands leadership in the region in promoting human rights and gender equality," the Civil Society Commission of marriage equality, activists and LGBTQ+ couples said in a statement.
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At least eight Filipino naval personnel were injured this week in a confrontation with the Chinese coast guard while delivering supplies to a military outpost on the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, the Philippines foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

The ministry denounced the incident, in which one Filipino lost their thumb, as illegal and aggressive and said dialogue and consultation could not be achieved if Chinas words do not match their actions on the waters.

The supply mission involved two rubber boats of the Philippine navy which were blocked by Chinese coast guard speedboats, leading to a scuffle and collisions on 17 June.

Five of the injured were rescued by a Philippine coast guard patrol ship supporting the supply mission.

The Chinese coast guard damaged, emptied, and abandoned the rubber supply boats after towing them away, the Philippines foreign ministry said.

In line with the Philippines commitment to pursue peace, the department has been exerting efforts to rebuild a conducive environment for dialogue and consultation with China on the South China Sea, the ministry said in a statement.

The Chinese coast guard accused the Philippine Navy of sparking the confrontation by sailing one of their boats dangerously close to a Chinese vessel. Chinas foreign ministry described their coast guards actions as professional and lawful, asserting that the Philippine vessels were delivering construction material to the disputed shoal.

The Philippine vessel ignored Chinas repeated solemn warnings, the ministry said, and dangerously approached a Chinese vessel in normal navigation in an unprofessional manner, resulting in a collision.

The Second Thomas Shoal has long been a point of contention in the South China Sea, with both China and the Philippines laying claim to it. In 1999, the Philippines deliberately grounded a vessel, BRP Sierra Madre, on the shoal and converted it into a military outpost.

A new Chinese law authorises its coast guard to seize and detain any foreign ships and crews that sail into its claimed territorial waters, further escalating tensions.

open image in gallery A protester holds a sign criticising Chinas actions against Philippine vessels in disputed waters of the South China Sea during a rally outside Chinas consular office in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines, on 11 June 2024 ( EPA )

The Philippines earlier this month denounced Chinas barbaric and inhumane attempt to block a medical evacuation mission in the South China Sea.

Its coast guard alleged that despite informing the Chinese Coast Guard via radio and public address system about the humanitarian nature of our mission for medical evacuation they still engaged in dangerous manoeuvres and even intentionally rammed a vessel transporting the sick personnel.

The coast guard eventually managed to evacuate the sick soldier to nearby Palawan.

China and the Philippines have previously said they would seek better communication and management of skirmishes in the vast South China Sea, but tensions have escalated of late as Manila has firmed up military ties with the United States.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has declared that a Filipino casualty in the disputed waters could activate Manilas Mutual Defense Treaty with the US.
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Nvidia, the US computer chip firm, has moved ahead of tech giants Microsoft and Apple to become the most valuable company in the world.

Here is a look at how the California-based company achieved this.

 What has happened?

On Tuesday, Nvidias share price hit nearly 136 US dollars (107), giving the company an overall valuation of 3.34 US trillion dollars (2.63 trillion).

This made the company more valuable than Microsoft, having also overtaken fellow tech giant Apple earlier this month, and become the most valuable company in the world.

 Why has the firm become so valuable?

A computer chip giant previously best known for making graphics cards, Nvidia has in recent years come to dominate the market in artificial intelligence (AI) chips  specifically those needed to train and run the powerful AI models that run generative AI software such as OpenAIs ChatGPT.

Generative AI has become the key battleground in the tech space over the last 18 months, with some experts saying it could be as pivotal an innovation as the internet itself in the years to come.

The excitement around the technology has sparked a battle between some of the worlds biggest companies  Apple, Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft and others  to build new AI products.

With Nvidia as the key maker of AI chips, this has substantially boosted the firms sales and profits, with its stock price further helped by some investors believing it could go higher, with demand for AI expected to increase further.

 How fast has Nvidias value grown?

While its share price has been steadily rising for several years now, it has only been this year that it truly took off.

Its value has more than doubled in 2024 to now sit at nearly 136 US dollars a share.

In contrast, at the beginning of 2023, it was priced at less than 15 US dollars a share, and five years ago it was less than four US dollars.

 Is it likely to keep growing?

Many investors believe the demand for AI is only going to increase, meaning Nvidias value could rise still further, with some believing the company is now in a direct race with Microsoft and Apple to be the first to reach a four trillion US dollar valuation over the next year.

But others have questioned whether further big gains in the future are likely, given the increasing competition it is and will likely face in the months and years to come as tech giants begin to build and use their own AI chips, existing rivals catch up and new firms emerge as key players in the AI chip market.
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An intensifying heatwave sweeping northern India has killed five more people in Delhi as the capital recorded the hottest night ever.

The extreme heat has hit the poor and the homeless the hardest and they accounted for all the latest fatalities in Delhi.

The deaths were reported from the citys hospitals from Monday to Wednesday.

Frequent power cuts and water shortages have compounded the struggles of the capitals 20 million residents, the Times of India reported.

Several dozen people, mostly labourers, security guards and outdoors workers, have reportedly been admitted to hospitals with symptoms related to heatstroke.

The city experienced the hottest night ever on Wednesday with the minimum temperature scaling to 35.2C, eight degrees above normal, according to the weather department.

It was the hottest night since records began in 1969, breaking the previous record of 34.7C on 3 June 2010.

open image in gallery Staff prepare an inflated ice bed in the heatstroke ward of Ram Manohar Lohia hospital in Delhi ( AFP via Getty )

Northern India has been reeling under a prolonged heatwave this summer with temperatures hovering around 45C for days.

The country has reported hundreds of deaths from heatstroke since May, including dozens of workers engaged in conducting the national election that concluded early this month.

Government data released in May suggested 60 people had died from heat-related illnesses between March and May. But activists said the actual number was far higher.

The need for cooling has increased the load on the capitals power grid with consumption soaring to a record 8,647 megawatts this week.

On Tuesday, the demand for power peaked at 89,000 megawatts with many localities suffering frequent power cuts.

open image in gallery People fill their containers with water distributed by a municipal tanker in Delhi ( AFP via Getty )

The citys international airport also witnessed a power cut for several minutes, impacting operations.

Pictures shared on social media showed passengers queued up at check-in counters as the staff tried to restart their systems.

There is a water crisis as well with several areas in the city reporting no to very low supply, forcing residents to buy from water tankers at inflated prices.
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I have a strange confession to make. I cant stop dreaming about Keir Starmer. Over the past few months, and particularly since next months general election was called, the Labour leader has appeared in my nocturnal imaginings on a semi-regular basis  as much as any real person I know. He stalks my psyche like Freddy Krueger, if Krueger was less interested in slicing up teens and more concerned with winning the approval of Stevenage Woman. It turns out Im not the only one  after I mentioned this phenomenon at work, a colleague confessed to having Starmer dreams as well. You too may have spent the last few weeks dreaming of Starmer, or Ed Davey, or even Nigel Farage. Whatever the case, this is a safe and judgement-free space.

My Starmer dreams arent violent. And no, before you ask, theyre not raunchy either. In fact, as dreams go, theyre pretty banal. In them, Starmer doesnt really do anything of note, doesnt utter so much as a my father was a toolmaker. The dreams take the form of some prosaic scenario  Ill be at a house party with friends, for instance  and then he will simply be there, and I will spend the duration of the dream yelling at him, berating him, working myself into a veritable imaginative lather. (It may be worth pointing out here that I am actually not Starmers biggest fan.) They say you should never go to bed angry. But what if you keep waking up furious?

It could be worse, of course: better to be dream-stalked by the visage of Starmer than, say, Adolf Hitler, or Genghis Khan. If nothing else, theres also a sort of distinctly British modesty to it, as if my dreams were being organised by some cloutless, third-rate talent booker. (Count Dracula is a no would you take John Prescott?)

But what exactly is causing this personal Nightmare on Downing Street? I suspect it is a matter of political impotence. Maybe Im subconsciously channelling my frustration around how voiceless I  and many others who are pro-immigration, pro-LGBT+ rights and anti-privatisation  currently feel when it comes to the Labour Party. If I cant yell at the real Keir Starmer, this mental facsimile will have to do. Perhaps its something more abstract: Sigmund Freud might have suggested that this imaginary Starmer-shaped punching bag is in fact a stand-in for my father, or my mother, or has something to do with penises. But Freud, as we all know, was coked out of his gourd and its probably best to ignore him. (Besides, my dad would never be caught dead in the Arsenal home crowd.)

Ultimately, the hows and whys dont matter so much. The crux of the issue is I want these dreams to stop. I need Starmer cut from the cast of my nighttime fantasies, written out abruptly like David Caruso in the second season of NYPD Blue. So I asked chartered psychologist Dr Mark Rackley to shed some light on my dreams, in the hope that I could, in the words of Labours manifesto, change.

Keir Starmer freezes after being called a 'political robot'

Dreams remain one of the great mysteries within psychological science, he tells me. And there is no common consensus as to why we dream or what purpose they serve. As everyone likely knows first hand already, dreams, he says, can be illogical, have a first-person perspective and can contain elements of waking life. So far, so clear. But where does Starmer enter into this?

In the run-up to the general election, this can create anticipatory anxiety around what will happen and provoke strong negative emotional responses such as anger, fear, frustration and hopelessness, Dr Rackley continues. We can fear that the election will bring negative change to our lives and that we are powerless to stop this change from happening. This actual reality can then get played out in the dreams that we have and can produce some strange experiences in our dreams.

open image in gallery The man in my dreams: Keir Starmer, pictured in corporeal form on 5 June 2024 ( Getty Images )

Politicians like Starmer and Rishi Sunak are, he continues, characters in our life, even if we do not know them personally. As dreams are involuntary experiences that are created by our unconscious mind, we can have dreams about politicians, talking to them and arguing with them and this can feel real, as when we dream, the feelings that are produced stay with us, he adds. This type of dream relates to our reality and is triggered by events that are familiar to us.

With all that said, is there any chance of stopping the dream? Of ridding my mind of Starmer via some kind of oneiric deep clean? It turns out its not that easy. As dreams are involuntary experiences, we cannot predict or control them, says Dr Rackley. You cannot force the brain to produce or stop a dream; that is out of everyones control. The best we can do is seek to understand the process and not let the dream wreck our head too much!

It may not be what I wanted to hear, but hey  perhaps its not the end of the world. If I were plagued by dreams of Sunak, Im not sure Id ever sleep again.
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Melina French Gates has opened up about her divorce from her ex-husband, Bill Gates.

French Gates spoke candidly about announcing her divorce in 2021, after 27 years of marriage, during an interview with Time, published on June 18. Speaking to the publication, she reflected on her life at home during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, which was when she and Gates were separating.

She acknowledged how grateful she was to have a private breakup, as it happened when two of their three children - Jennifer, 28, Rory, 25, and Phoebe, 21 - were living with their parents full-time.

open image in gallery Melinda French Gates opens up about divorce from Bill Gates ( AFP via Getty Images )

It gave us the privacy to do what needed to be done in private, she said about going through the split during the pandemic. You know, I separated first before I made the full decision about a divorce. And to be able to do that in private while Im still trying to take care of the kids, while still making certain decisions about how youre going to disentangle your life - thank God.

French Gates, 59, was also asked if she was concerned if the divorce would affect her and her husbands private charitable organization, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. In response, she acknowledged that her split was ultimately more of a personal thing. However, she noted that she still had both her organization and children on her mind at the time.

I thought a lot about my three children, she said. But I certainly thought about the effect on the foundation. Those are the three biggest buckets: me, the kids, and the foundation. And I wanted to make sure that when we came through it to the other side - when I came through it on my side - all of those pieces were intact.

French Gates, who announced her departure from the foundation last month, also spoke candidly about being in a good place now, despite how difficult her divorce was.

Getting a divorce is a horrible thing. Its just painful. Its awful when you realize you need one, she said, before correcting herself by clarifying that divorce is a hard thing instead of a horrible thing.

She was then asked how she felt now that the hard parts about her split are over, to which she responded: It has been wonderful. Ill just leave it there.

The philanthropist continued to share how happy she is in her own space, noting that she lives close to a lot of her friends.

I live in a neighborhood. Now I can walk to little stores. I can walk to the drugstore, I can walk to a restaurant, she explained. I absolutely love it.

Last month, she revealed that she was exiting the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation after more than two decades to do her own charitable work for women and families.

This is not a decision I came to lightly, she wrote in a statement shared to X, formerly known as Twitter. I am taking this step with full confidence the foundation is in strong shape. The time is right for me to move forward into the next chapter of my philanthropy.

During her interview with Time, she once addressed why she decided to leave the foundation. I was just ready to be able to have full decision-making control about where all the funds go, she said. She also shared her belief that the foundation will continue, since the board  which includes her ex-husband and Mark Suzman, the CEO  believes in womens health.

Gates and French Gates finalized their divorce in August 2021. Months later, during a wide-ranging interview with CBS Mornings, French Gates revealed how she ultimately decided to separate from Gates, who had previously admitted to infidelity during their marriage.

I certainly believe in forgiveness, so I thought we had worked through some of that. It wasnt one moment or one specific thing that happened, she said during her TV interview in March 2022. There just came a point in time where there was enough there that I realized it just wasnt healthy and I couldnt trust what we had.

During the interview, Melinda also claimed that her ex-husbands friendship with child sex trafficker Jeffery Epstein contributed to their divorce.

I did not like that he had meetings with Jeffery Epstein. I made that clear to him. I also met Jeffrey Epstein exactly one time. I wanted to see who this man was and I regretted it from the second I stepped in the door, she told Gayle King.
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A California man charged with killing a gay University of Pennsylvania student in an alleged hate crime six years ago testified Tuesday about how the two men connected on social media and went to a park. It was the last time the victim was seen.

Samuel Woodward, 26, took the stand in his trial in an Orange County courtroom with long hair partly covering his face. His lawyer repeatedly asked him to push it aside so jurors could see him.

In response to questioning, Woodward told the court there were times in his life where he felt he didn't have friends and that virtually the only communication he had with other people was online. He acknowledged he matched with former high school classmate Blaze Bernstein on a dating app, and six months later, when the two reconnected, he told Bernstein it was awkward to be chatting since he came from a conservative, Catholic family.

I had been looking for people for a long time to spend time with or talk to, Woodward said during his third day testifying in his monthslong trial.

Woodward is charged with murder with an enhancement for a hate crime in the death of Bernstein, a 19-year-old gay Jewish college sophomore who was home visiting family in Southern California on winter break when he disappeared in 2018. Bernstein's body was found days later buried in a shallow grave in a nearby park.

The two men had connected online in the months before the attack, according to screenshots of their conversations shown during the trial.

Prosecutors said Woodward had joined the violent, anti-gay, antisemitic group known as Atomwaffen Division and repeatedly targeted gay men online by reaching out to them and then abruptly breaking off contact while keeping a hateful, profanity-laced journal of his actions. Prosecutors also said that Woodward showed an interest in moving from words to violent actions and that they found hate group materials among his belongings.

Defense attorney Ken Morrison didn't dispute that his client carried out the fatal attack, but said Woodward didn't plan to kill anyone and didn't hate Bernstein.

He said Woodward faced challenges in his personal relationships due to a long-undiagnosed autism spectrum disorder and was confused about his own sexuality after growing up in a politically conservative and devout Catholic family where his father openly criticized homosexuality.

During his testimony, Woodward acknowledged he had read excerpts of the book Siege  a text promoted by Atomwaffen Division and had contacts with and met up with members of the group.

The case took years to go to trial after questions arose about Woodwards mental state and following multiple changes in defense attorneys. Woodward was deemed competent to stand trial in late 2022.

The trial has involved numerous witnesses including relatives, friends and authorities. Woodward's testimony has moved slowly, with him taking long pauses before answering his attorney's questions.

Bernstein disappeared in January 2018 after he went out at night with Woodward to a park in Lake Forest, about 45 miles (70 kilometers) southeast of Los Angeles. After Bernstein missed a dentist appointment the next day, his parents found his glasses, wallet and credit cards in his bedroom and tried reaching him but he didnt respond to texts or calls.

Authorities launched an exhaustive search and said that Bernstein's family had scoured his social media and saw he had communicated on Snapchat with Woodward. Authorities said Woodward told the family Bernstein had gone off to meet a friend in the park that night and hadn't returned.

Days later, Bernsteins body was found buried at the park. He had been repeatedly stabbed in the face and neck.

Authorities said they searched Woodwards family home in the nearby seaside community of Newport Beach and found a folding knife with a bloodied blade in his room. They also found a black Atomwaffen mask with traces of blood and a host of anti-gay, antisemitic and hate group materials, prosecutors said.
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The Ganges river abruptly changed course 2,500 years ago following a devastating earthquake, according to a new study that raises concerns about the prevailing risk of megaquakes in South Asia.

Researchers, including from the Columbia Climate School, discovered a previously undocumented quake that struck what is now Bangladesh.

I dont think we have ever seen such a big one anywhere, said geophysicist Michael Steckler, a co-author of the study published in the journal Nature.

The Ganges forms the worlds second-largest river system after the Amazon in South America, flowing for over 2,500 km through northern India and Bangladesh before joining the Brahmaputra and emptying into the Bay of Bengal. It forms a vast labyrinth of waterways that feeds the most densely populated region on the planet.

While earthquakes are known as one of the key drivers of landscape change, their impact on river courses isnt fully understood.

Rivers are known to periodically change course without the help of earthquakes but this process generally takes successive floods over years or decades.

When a river changes course, sediments wash from upstream, settle and build up and eventually cause the river bed to rise higher than the surrounding floodplain.

But when the change of course is caused by a quake, the sediment flow can occur almost instantaneously.

Major improvements made to earthquake early warning app

In the new study, scientists assessed a unique sediment feature that was first discovered in a freshly dug pond near Dhaka that had not yet been filled with water.

On one flank of the pond, they spotted vertical dikes of sand that are well-known as a feature created by earthquakes. The dikes are caused when quakes pressurise buried sand and inject it up out of the soil like literal sand volcanoes, researchers said.

A classic sign of a landscape disrupted by an earthquake is a vein of sand that has been pushed up through darker sediments ( Liz Chamberlain )

On further analysis, scientists found the sand dikes in the pond were all created at the same time about 2,500 years ago.

A similar change was discovered at a site about 85km downstream.

Researchers said these changes are proof of the former main channel of the river that ran about 100km south of Dhaka.

This fossil channel of the Ganges is a low-lying area about 1.5 km wide and stretches intermittently for some 100km parallel to the current river course.

The extinct channel frequently floods and is used mainly for rice cultivation, scientists said.

The lowlands of Bangladesh are in many places an elaborate mixture of land and water that sometimes change places ( Photo by Steve Goodbred )

Researchers concluded from their findings that there was a big, sudden avulsion triggered by an earthquake, estimated to be magnitude 7 or 8 which struck the region two and a half millennia ago.

The quake was likely caused by a huge under-ocean tectonic plate shoving itself under Bangladesh, Myanmar and northeastern India, they said.

Scientists noted that these zones are still building stress and could produce quakes of comparable magnitude again in this densely populated region.

Large earthquakes impact large areas and can have long-lasting economic, social and political effects, Syed Humayun Akhter, vice-chancellor of Bangladesh Open University and an author of the study, said.
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A jury has failed to reach verdicts in the trial of aristocrat Constance Marten and her partner Mark Gordon.

Marten, 37, and her partner Gordon, 50, have been on trial accused of manslaughter after their newborn daughter Victoria died while they were camping on the South Downs in wintry conditions.

The parents were charged after the baby was found dead in an allotment shed in Brighton, East Sussex, last March, following a high-profile police search for the couple and their child.

The parents denied charges of gross negligence manslaughter of Victoria between 4 January and 27 February last year, and of causing or allowing the death of a child.

They also denied charges of perverting the course of justice by concealing her body, concealing the birth of a child, and child cruelty.

A jury at the Old Bailey deliberated for 72 hours and 33 minutes but was unable to reach verdicts.

The judge, Mark Lucraft KC, discharged the jury on Wednesday, almost six months after the trial began.

The prosecution will now have to consider whether to seek a retrial.

Mr Lucraft said he would be writing to each of the jurors to thank them, and that they would be excused from jury service for the rest of their lives.

He said they had shown truly exceptional examples of dedication to public service since the trial started in January.

Marten, wearing a blue blouse and dark trousers, was separated by a dock officer from Gordon, who was dressed in a blue shirt and navy tie as the jury was discharged.
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A police officer in Rishi Sunaks close protection team has been arrested and suspended over alleged bets about the timing of the general election.

The police constable from the Mets Royalty and Specialist Protection Command was arrested on 17 June on suspicion of misconduct in public office after the betting watchdog contacted the force last Friday.

The officer was taken into custody and bailed pending further enquiries, with the case being referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, according to the Met.

In a separate case last week, a senior aide to Mr Sunak admitted the betting watchdog was making inquiries after he reportedly placed a bet on the date of the general election.

Tory candidate Craig Williams, who was the prime ministers Parliamentary Private Secretary in the last Parliament, said he would cooperate with the probe.

Mr Williams - who is standing for election in Montgomeryshire & Glyndwr - placed a 100 bet on a July election just three days before Mr Sunak named 4 July as the date, according to The Guardian.

A Scotland Yard spokesperson told The Independent: We can confirm that on Friday, 14 June, the Met were contacted by the Gambling Commission who informed us that they were investigating alleged bets made by a Police Constable from the Mets Royalty and Specialist Protection Command, which were related to the timing of the general election.

The matter was immediately referred to officers in the Mets Directorate of Professional Standards, who opened an investigation, and the officer was also removed from operational duties.

The officer was subsequently arrested on Monday 17 June on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was taken into custody and bailed pending further enquiries. The matter has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

The Gambling Commission continues to lead the investigation into the alleged betting offences, and our investigation is running in parallel to that.

A Gambling Commission spokesperson added: The Gambling Commission regulates gambling in the interests of consumers and the wider public.

Currently the commission is investigating the possibility of offences concerning the date of the election. This is an ongoing investigation, and the commission cannot provide any further details at this time.

Liberal Democrats deputy leader Daisy Cooper said: Rishi Sunak must call a Cabinet Office inquiry into what is shaping up to be yet another scandal at the heart of Government.

This stinks of yet more sleaze and answers are needed. An inquiry is needed to understand who knew what and when.
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After four gruelling weeks, the search for missing British teenager Jay Slater appears to have come to a close on the island of Tenerife following the discovery of a body.

The 19-year-old was on his first-ever holiday without his family when he vanished as he walked back to his accommodation on the morning of June 17.

He had visited an Airbnb near the village of Masca with two people and, having missed the bus back, embarked on what would have been an 11-hour walk.

The apprentice bricklayer had not been seen or heard from since calling his friend at 8.50am to tell her he was lost, in need of water and that his phone was low on battery.

While Spanish police ended their official search on the ground after 12 days, Mr Slaters friends and family vowed to continue in the hope of finding him. On Monday human remains, which have yet to be formally identified, were found.

As the search for the teenager comes to an end, heres everything we know about his disappearance:

Jay Slater is missing in Tenerife ( Supplied )

Where is his last known location?

Jay Slater, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, was last heard from on Monday, 17 June, as he told a friend he planned to walk back to his accommodation after missing a bus, a journey expected to take around 11 hours on foot.

He had travelled to the tourist hotspot with friends to attend the music festival in Playa de Las Americas in what was his first holiday without his family.

On Sunday, his friend Lucy Law told Manchester Evening News that she had left the festival early, with Jay staying on and going to a nightclub in Playa de las Americas.

He later travelled to an Airbnb in the remote Masca valley with two men, one of them known to be Briton Ayub Qassim, but left their accommodation at around 8am to travel home.

Mr Slater was last seen by a cafe owner, who said the teenager had asked her about bus times before deciding not to wait two hours for a service. She then saw him walk out of the village.

Ms Law was the last to hear from the teenager when he called her at 8.50am on Monday, alerting her that he was lost, had injured his leg, needed water and that his phone was on one per cent battery. He also phoned his friend Brad Hargreaves, who heard him sliding over gravel which indicated he had left the main road.

Jay Slater in social media photo posted by friend days before his disappearance ( Supplied )

Ms Law told the MEN that one of the people Mr Slater had met had driven them back to his apartment in a hire car and the missing man had not realised how far away it was.

Hes ended up out in the middle of nowhere. Jay was obviously thinking he would be able to get home from there, she said.

But then in the morning hes set off walking, using his maps on his phone and ended up in the middle of mountains with nothing around.

Mr Slaters phone then cut off, with his last location showing just off a path in the Rural de Teno park  a mountainous area popular with hikers in the north of the island.

When Jay Slaters phone cut off, his last location showed as the Rural de Teno park  a mountainous area popular with hikers (Alamy/PA)

Where have authorities been searching?

A specialist mountain rescue team, including a police helicopter and sniffer dogs, were all deployed to look for Mr Slater.

Search teams had narrowed their efforts on small buildings close to where his phone last pinged, while officers were seen at the AirBnb and in the next valley.

A member of a search and rescue team search near the last known location of Jay Slater ( James Manning/PA Wire )

Andrew Knight, known on YouTube as the Knightrider, who joined the search told The Independent of the climate in Tenerife: Its rugged mountainsides, loose rocks that fall away underfoot, cactuses everywhere. Its a disorienting landscape and also has extreme weather changes.

At night the temperature drops to around 12 degrees Celsius, but with the wind chill and the thin air at altitude, it feels around 10 degrees.

In the sunshine, it can go up to 28 degrees. It also can be quite damp, it rained a little when I was there. It has its own microclimate that changes by the hour.

After authorities officially halted their search on June 30, Jays father and brother were seen continuing to scour the valley his phone was last located in and searching in nearby mountain villages.

After finding a body, Spanish police said they had indeed continued an incessant and discreet search in which the natural space was preserved so that it would not be filled with curious onlookers.

A specialist mountain rescue team, including a police helicopter, has been deployed to look for Jay ( Victoria Roocroft/BBC )

Have they found him?

Spanish police said on Monday 15 July that human remains had been found in the area where Mr Slater went missing.

The Civil Guard said the evidence strongly suggested the remains were those of the 19-year-old, with DNA tests to be carried out to establish the persons identity, along with an autopsy to uncover the cause of their death.

A Spanish police spokesperson said: All indications are that it could be the young British man who had been missing for 29 days.

He could have died due to an accidental fall on the steep and inaccessible area where he has been found. We are awaiting the results of the autopsy to confirm that it is about an accident.

What have his friends and family said?

Jays family are yet to speak out about the body found in the search for Mr Slater - but they have expressed their immense concern throughout the search.

Following his disappearance, a GoFundMe was set up to help assist with the search and to pay for his family and friends to remain in Tenerife.

In an emotional interview near the search site, his father Warren Slater told reporters he just wanted his son back, while he was also seen sticking posters to nearby bus stops and buildings.

Mr Slater pictured with his mother, Debbie Duncan ( Supplied )

After 12 days of searching, the Guardia Civil announced that they were standing down their operation, just one day after they issued a mass appeal for volunteers.

In a statement issued through the British overseas missing persons charity LBT Global, Debbie Duncan said the land search for her son has been called off, but thanked the Guardia Civil who she said had worked tirelessly up in the mountains where Jays last phone call was traced.

His mothers statement said: We are a very close family and are absolutely devastated about his disappearance.

Words cannot describe the pain and agony we are experiencing. He is our beautiful boy with his whole life ahead of him and we just want to find him.
 Close Jay Slaters father makes six-word plea to son at visit to site of search

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Jay Slaters family have been urged to use fundraising donations to hire experts to continue the search for the missing teenager.

Spanish police said the hunt for the 19-year-old from Lancashire had ended, with the case remaining open on Sunday as the gruelling search entered another week.

But his family have vowed to carry on looking for him regardless.

TV detective Mark Williams-Thomas flew out to conduct his own investigation and has urged the family to use some of the 46,000 raised to help continue the search.

He wrote on X: In light of the police search ending. I have suggested the family should use the GoFundMe money to continue the search using experts in searching.

It comes as an amateur sleuth claimed to be following an unofficial new clue.

TikTok climber Paul Arnott, who has been searching for Jay in Tenerife, said that a pair of sunglasses similar to the ones Jay was last seen wearing had been found close to where his mobile phone last pinged.
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A badly burned man was pulled out of the wreckage of his home by neighbours after a suspected gas explosion in Middlesbrough.

Firefighters have warned people to stay away from the scene of the blast in Kirkland Walk which happened at around 12.40pm on Tuesday.

The seriously injured homeowner burned top-to-bottom was flown to hospital.

Pictures from the scene show his rubble scattered everywhere with his roof completely caved in and his front wall appeared to disintegrate in the explosion.

Residents in the square have been told they cannot go back to their homes following the explosion.

Michael Clark, who lives with his wife in Kirkland Walk, said: Three lads went in and pulled him out of the rubble.

They didnt hesitate, they went straight in, they were worried there was going to be another explosion.

The man was screaming in the rubble.

A general view of the scene of a suspected gas explosion at a property near Frampton Green ( Owen Humphreys/PA Wire )

The man looked terrible when they brought him out.

The 69-year-old added: All his clothes were stuck to him and they looked like rags.

His hair was all burned, everything, from top to bottom.

Mr Clark said the neighbouring house to the explosion has lost a bedroom and other homes roofs were badly damaged.

Michelle Garner, 51, who lives in a nearby street with her French bulldog Titan, has also been told she cannot go home yet.

She said: The whole house was shaking.

I jumped up and opened the front door and saw all the smoke and everyone was moving around and there was no house left.

Ms Garner and Mr Clark estimated that around 50 homes could have been evacuated, possibly affecting more than 100 people.

They have been told they can gather at a local primary school.

An air ambulance took the man to hospital after landing on a nearby green.

The Great North Air Ambulance Service said: Our team activated at 12.46pm to an incident in Middlesbrough.

We had two doctors and two paramedics respond to the scene and they worked alongside the North East Ambulance Service to assess and treat a patient.

The patient is being airlifted to hospital.

A Cleveland Police spokesperson urged members of the public to avoid the area while they worked with Cleveland Fire Brigade and North East Ambulance Service at the scene.

We thank local residents for their patience as we continue to deal with this incident, they said.

A large cordon was in place at the scene where there were at least three ambulances, four fire engines and five gas engineers vans.

Local residents, including children who had finished school for the day, gathered at the cordon to watch the emergency services response.
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The OceanGate co-founder is organising a trip to a sinkhole described as the portal to hell a year on from the Titan submersible disaster.

Located in the Bahamas, Deans Blue Hole is one of the worlds deepest underwater sinkholes and those joining the first manned submersible dive to the site are encouraged to expect the unexpected.

Guillermo Sohnlein, 58, co-founded OceanGate in 2009 with Stockton Rush, who died in last years submersible implosion at the age of 61.

After leaving the company in 2013, Mr Sohnlein co-founded another underwater exploration company called Blue Marble Exploration, and it has set its sights on the 663-feet hole, which has previously only been virtually explored.

In a now-deleted post about the upcoming expedition, Blue Marble explained the local superstitions behind the sinkhole, which will see the explorers enveloped in complete darkness.

Locals believe that Deans is a portal to hell and the devil himself lurks in the black depths, Blue Marble Explorations website said.

Each year, several people drown in Deans due to a variety of misfortunes. We fully expect to find human remains and prepare to handle those situations with proper respect for the families.

The hole is reported to have claimed as many as 200 lives in recent years.

Uncharted waters, unforeseen currents, extreme pressure, near-complete darkness and the remote location are listed as challenges for the trip.

The expedition expects to encounter various challenges in the sinkhole ( Alamy )

While the website previously said join our expedition, Mr Sohnlein has since confirmed to The Independent that it will be carried out by trained professionals only and not tourists, as was the case in the doomed OceanGate trip last June.

The ad for the mission read: The next frontier for our team is in the underwater depths of Deans Blue Hole.

In the first descent of crewed submersibles, equipped with LED lights and underwater drone technology, our scientists will be able to venture into some of Earths least hospitable conditions in search of unprecedented findings.

Mr Sohnlein also confirmed to The Independent that certified submersibles will be used for the mission, which he stressed was always the intention even before the Titan implosion.

OceanGate used a controversial carbon fibre hull in the Titan, and it is believed this material weakened over time, resulting in last Junes catastrophic implosion.

Five people lost their lives when the sub imploded an estimated hour and 45 minutes into its dive to the Titanic wreck, which lies around 12,500 feet below the North Atlantic Ocean.

The submersible vessel named Titan was used to visit the wreckage site of the Titanic until it imploded last June ( AP )

Mr Sohnlein, who also believes he can safely send humans to Venus, gave several interviews in the wake of last Junes disaster.

He told Reuters: Lets figure out what went wrong, lets learn lessons and lets get down there again.

If anything, what were feeling is an even stronger imperative to continue doing this kind of exploration work. I think its important for humanity, and its probably the best way to honour the five crew members who gave up their lives doing something that they loved.
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Boris Johnson is no longer set to join the Tory election campaign trail amid fears he will alienate Conservative voters in seats the party desperately needs to hold.

Instead, the former prime minister is expected to take a second summer holiday  having just returned from Sardinia.

Mr Johnson has been pulled into the fight to stave off an electoral wipeout and letters signed by the ex-PM exhorting thousands of voters to back the Conservatives are due to land on doorsteps within days.

But he is not now thought to be joining his partys ground war, as its tries to save blue wall seats in the south of England.

Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson ( Getty/Boris Johnson )

The move suggests the party is effectively conceding many Red wall seats in the north of England, which Mr Johnson famously helped his party take from Labour at the last election.

One Tory strategist told the Times said: "This is a fight for survival. If you look at the seats we're targeting, they don't have Boris Johnson supporters."

In recent days the former prime minister has used a series of Cameo-style videos to endorse around 50 Tory candidates across the country, many of them his allies.

In one, he said he was passionate that voters should re-elect Sir Simon Clarke, who tried to oust Mr Sunak as leader earlier this year warning that the party faced an electoral massacre if he remained in charge.

The letters are being sent to voters as part of an attempt to counter the threat posed by Nigel Farages Reform UK.

Letters due to drop as Nigel Farages Reform UK climbs in the polls (Ian West/PA) ( PA Wire )

Mr Sunak said on Tuesday that Mr Johnsons endorsements were great" and would make a difference".

But a spokesman for Mr Johnson would not be drawn on whether the letters would mention Mr Sunak, although he did describe them as supportive.

Asked if they would mention the prime minister, he said their content will become clear in due course.

In response, the Lib Dems said Mr Sunak was being airbrushed out of his own campaign.

Mr Johnson was defended as "clearly an asset" to the Tory election campaign by a cabinet minister.

Mel Stride, the Work and Pensions Secretary, told Sky News: "I think he is campaigning. I mean, I've been aware that he's certainly been doing videos for specific candidates, writing endorsements, tens of thousands of letters are being sent out in his name, I think, as we speak.

"I think that in this modern way of campaigning, that's probably quite an effective way of getting a message across.

"I mean, Boris is clearly an asset to the campaign, he clearly chosen to get involved and he's clearly urging people to vote Conservatives."

Shortly afterward, Mr Sunak wished the former prime minister a "happy birthday" and said it had been "great having him support the Conservative Party".

The Prime Minister, whose resignation from Mr Johnson's cabinet was instrumental in the former premier's downfall, told LBC: "I hope he's having a good day."
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A Tory advert suggesting dictators are looking forward to a Labour government has been branded shameful and demeaning by the former Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation.

Crossbench peer Lord Carlile said the Conservatives should be ashamed of themselves for publishing a photoshopped image of Sir Keir Starmer being cheered on by North Korean despot Kim Jong Un.

The partys official X account shared the image, in which the North Korean leader is flanked by Russias Vladimir Putin and Chinas Xi Jinping.

The Tory attack ad was posted on Twitter with the caption theyre watching ( Conservatives )

All three dictators are cheering on the Labour leader, with the image apparently suggesting the trio hope Sir Keir wins the 4 July general election, an outcome which polls suggest is highly likely.

Click here for our live coverage of the general election campaign.

Lord Carlile told The Independent: Its shameful and demeaning nonsense. The Conservatives should be ashamed of themselves for stooping to those depths. It demeans the reputation of politics.

Crossbench peer Lord Carlile said the Conservatives had demeaned the reputation of politics ( Rex Features )

Former Tory minister Alistair Burt said the post was disgraceful.

And Labours candidate for Windsor said the advert was truly pathetic. Pavitar Kaur Mann added: Id much rather the defence of our country being in the hands of someone who has public service built into his core than a party that has decimated our armed services and takes money from Russian oligarchs.

They were among a slew of critics of the post, which many said was an indication of the lack of coherence of the Conservative campaign.

The party is more than 20 points behind Labour in the polls, with forecasts repeatedly pointing to a historic landslide on 4 July.

And just hours before the Conservative advert was posted online, work and pensions secretary Mel Stride conceded Labour is heading towards the largest majority virtually in the history of this country.

Mr Sunak doubled down on the post, saying Sir Keir would send "exactly the wrong message" to the UK's adversaries, such as Russia and North Korea.

Speaking to reporters in East Anglia, the Prime Minister repeated his concerns of an "axis of authoritarian states, including Russia, Iran, North Korea and China, who are increasingly acting together in a way that threatens our values, our interests and our security".

He touted a promise to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by the end of the decade which Sir Keir has not matched. If Keir Starmer is elected, one of the first things he will do is head off to a Nato summit having cut British defence spending from the planned increases that I've announced, and I think that sends exactly the wrong message," Mr Sunak said.

The X post also came just a day after Sir Keir Starmer praised Rishi Sunaks cross-party approach on national security and defence issues.

During an LBC phone-in on Tuesday, Sir Keir was asked what, if anything, he admired about the prime minister.

The Labour leader said: On the day he became prime minister, he insisted on picking up the phone to me - which he did not have to.

In a personal one-to-one, he was running late for time and was really busy, he wanted to establish contact and say that on things like Ukraine and national security, whatever other arguments we have in other parts of the forest, we will work together and share information.

And to be fair, I have had pretty high level security briefings on Ukraine and other issues from him and his team.

Mr Sunak has been urged by cabinet members to launch more personal attacks on Sir Keir to make a dent in Labours poll lead, with one telling him to go for the jugular.
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The former justice secretary has called for an amnesty for more than 29,000 people convicted for breaking Covid rules.

Sir Robert Buckland, who oversaw the courts during the pandemic, said the 29,383 people fined over Covid rule breaches should have their slates wiped clean.

Among who received fines for breaching Covid regulations were prime minister Rishi Sunak and then-prime minister Boris Johnson in what became known as the Partygate scandal.

But Sir Robert said the individuals risked seeing their career prospects being hampered by convictions during what was an exceptional time.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, Sir Robert said: It is not proportionate or necessary at a time when we want to encourage and support as many people back to work as possible. If it is not being recorded in the usual way as a previous conviction, I would wipe the slate clean.

His calls were backed by former cabinet ministers Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg and Sir David Davis.

Sir Robert Buckland said those fined during the pandemic should have their slates wiped clean ( PA Wire )

Sir Jacob said the fines given out during the pandemic now look entirely disproportionate, while Sir David said all but the most serious breaches should be obliterated from the record.

The current justice secretary, Alex Chalk, is sympathetic to the idea of wiping the slate clean, a source told the paper.

Data from the Ministry of Justice shows fines of up to 10,000, totalling 26m, were given to more than 29,000 people. The largest share of the total was from fines given to those in their 30s, at 6.9m, with those 20 and under paying out 3.3m.

Almost a third of Covid prosecutions turned out to be wrongful, figures revealed in the wake of the pandemic. Data obtained by The Independent showed that 29 per cent of charges reviewed by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) since March 2020 were found to be incorrect  839 in total.

The Covid fine figure includes 528 of more than 2,500 prosecutions under the Health Protection Regulations, which were the laws broken by politicians and civil servants fined over Downing Street parties.
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Russian interference in the UK general election will likely ramp up dramatically over the next fortnight, the chair of the United States senate intelligence committee has warned.

Washington has witnessed egregious efforts by Moscow to interfere in the democratic process across the globe, similar to those alleged in the 2016 US presidential election, said Mark Warner.

The senior senator, who is regularly briefed on secret US intelligence, said he had been closely monitoring the situation in the UK, adding: I think the next big test of the state of play will be the British elections in a few weeks.

Mark Warner chairs the US senate intelligence committee ( Getty Images )

While US intelligence services are yet to see much activity indicating Russian interference in the ballot due on 4 July, Mr Warner said on Tuesday: The chances are, as we saw in the past, this activity ramps up dramatically the closer it gets to the election.

Speaking at a Christian Science Monitor event, the Virginia Democrat was reported as saying: Clearly, Russia does not like the fact that the UK has been as stalwart as they have been in terms of defence on Ukraine.

He added: It clearly meets [Russian President Vladimir] Putins plans if he can lessen the British or the Americans resolve for supporting Ukraine  he can save some money on his tanks, guns, ships, and planes if he can diminish support.

The warning comes a month after Westminsters national security committee urged that Britain must be prepared for the possibility of foreign interference in the upcoming general election

In a letter to Rishi Sunak, committee chair Dame Margaret Beckett said the UK had experienced a pattern of attempted foreign interference from countries such as China, Russia, Iran and North Korea in recent years.

The remarks came as Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un struck a new defence pact in Pyongyang ( via REUTERS )

The UK government has previously said it is almost certain that Russian actors tried to interfere in 2019s general election.

Dame Margaret said hostile actors could use cyberattacks, target political candidates in a bid to retrieve and exploit sensitive information, spread disinformation online, and capitalise on controversial topics where there are already domestic divides in order to sow further division.

While the infamous Internet Research Agency troll farm  linked to the late Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin  was reportedly disbanded last July following his mutinous march on Moscow, there are similar Kremlin-linked groups still active, Mr Warner noted on Tuesday.

Russia and Chinas disinformation tactics have both improved, Mr Warner noted on Tuesday, echoing Dame Margaret as he said Moscow was intent on exacerbating social divisions by sowing discontent or trying to pit groups against each other.

Describing Putins potential efforts to exploit political differences over the defence of Ukraine, Mr Warner reportedly referenced former Ukip leader Nigel Farage, who said this week that his new Reform UK party would like to see Kyiv negotiate with Russia.

Discussing US presidential candidate Donald Trumps colder stance towards funding Ukraines defence, Mr Warner said: Im not sure where Mr Farage is at this week on that issue or whether hes continuing to follow Mr Trumps lead.

Mr Farage told reporters on Tuesday: If there is a change of American president, Trump will push for these negotiations to happen and my guess is they would happen.

The remarks came as Putin used his first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years to announce a new Russian-North Korean pact, which he said included a mutual defence clause.
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Anti-Brexit group Best for Britain says its analysis confirms that Labour is in a strong position to win Clacton and stop Nigel Farage becoming an MP.

The claim came as part of a wider tactical voting analysis by the group published this morning for 451 seats across the UK including a plan to unseat prime minister Rishi Sunak, his chancellor Jeremy Hunt and predecessor Liz Truss.

The news has broken as Farage plans to unveil Reforms contract with the people in Wales, his partys version of a manifesto and has declared that he will be prime minister in 2029.

Best for Britains chief executive Naomi Smith said that her group hoped to provide a roadmap for the four in 10 voters looking at voting tactically for centre left parties and wanted to minimise the number of Tory seats and prevent nativist, populist parties like Farages Reform UK getting a foothold in parliament.

She said that previous votes in the area showed that there had been strong Labour support in Harwich, part of the Clacton seat, which was suppressed by Brexit. But Harwich had been held by Labour in 1997 and 2001.

She said: Our analysis shows that if the Greens and Lib Dems vote Labour then Labour can come through the middle and win Clacton.

It comes afterLabour claimed the collapse in Tory support is now so bad that only they can stop Nigel Farage winning Clacton if the last remaining Conservatives vote tactically for their candidate.

In 2019 Tory MP and former actor Giles Watling won Clacton with 72.3 per cent of the vote and a majority of 24,702, with Labour a very distant third on just 15.5 per cent.

But with the arrival of Mr Farage as the Reform UK candidate in a seat twice won by his former party Ukip, the dynamics appear to have changed.

Based on local projections from Electoral Calculus, Mr Farage is now the frontrunner with 39 per cent of the vote, ahead of Labour in a surprise second place with 27.6 per cent, and the Tories in third on 25.3 per cent.

The poll led Clacton Labour to post on social media: Latest Electoral Calculus polls for Clacton show that Jovan [Owusu-Nepaul] is the ONLY vote to stop Farage and bring CHANGE to Clacton!

A Reform source told The Independent that the partys internal national polling suggests there is a ginormous swing to Labour from the Tories but would not comment on Clacton.

However, localised polling based on national projections is notoriously inaccurate and leading pollster Lord Robert Hayward has warned against using Electoral Calculus as an accurate tool for predictions.

Jovan Owusu-Nepaul (centre) is Labours candidate for Clacton ( Martin Suker )

Nevertheless, Mr Farage has already clashed with his Labour opponent over Mr Owusu-Nepaul saying on social media that his favourite drink is the tears of white men in response to another tweet.

In a sign he is taking Mr Owusu-Nepaul more seriously than just another Labour paper candidate, the Reform UK leader said: If [Keir] Starmer thinks that the race in Clacton is a pantomime, perhaps he should look no further than his own candidate.

He added: Im shocked that this man is an official candidate for a Labour Party that says it has changed.

The Tories have said they do not respond to polling. However, Mr Watling has said he believes he can beat Mr Farage.

He was recently endorsed by pro-EU rejoin campaigner and journalist Tim Walker, who posted: [It is] clear Jovan Owusu-Nepaul is a great guy, but its going to be necessary to rally behind the candidate with the greatest chance of defeating Farage, even if that happens to be the incumbent Tory, Giles Watling. Clacton is a special situation.
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It wont be long before the UK goes to the polls to decide who their next prime minister should be.

In the build-up to July 4, we have seen vigorous campaigning from all parties as they vie for votes up and down the country.

All the large parties have now released their election manifestos, laying out their vision for the future of Britain.

Labour wants to add 20% VAT to private school fees, to pay for 6,500 extra teachers in Englands state schools. The party also aims to build 1.5 million new homes in the next five years and says it will restore plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030.

Meanwhile, part of Rishi Sunaks plan to get people onto the property ladder is a resurrection of the Help to Buy scheme, which would provide first-time buyers with an equity loan of up to 20% towards the cost of one of these new homes.

The Conservative Partys manifesto also pledges to abolish National Insurance for the self-employed, implement tougher sentences for offences including knife crime, grooming and assaults against retail workers, and underlines the plan to send some asylum seekers to Rwanda, saying there will be a regular rhythm of flights every month.

Two of Reform UKs core five pledges also involve migration. The party says it would freeze non-essential immigration, but concedes there would be exceptions with work in healthcare considered essential.

The Liberal Democrats plan to introduce free personal care in England, similar to the system that operates in Scotland where people needing help with daily tasks do not have to pay.

While each party passionately puts forth its case to the electorate, it is ultimately down to voters to decide what  and who  they think will take the country forward.

We want to know the issues that matter the most to you in this general election campaign. Will you be swayed most by a partys stance on Brexit? Or is an iron-clad plan to tackle the rising cost of living your number one priority?

Share your thoughts by adding them in the comments  well highlight the most insightful ones as they come in.

All you have to do is sign up and register your details  then you can take part in the discussion. You can also sign up by clicking log in on the top right-hand corner of the screen.

Make sure you adhere to our community guidelines , which can be found here . For a full guide on how to comment click here.

Join the conversation with other Independent readers below.
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George Galloway has vowed to withdraw the UK from Nato and pledged to offer workers the option of retiring at 60 in a giveaway spree announced for voters as he launched his partys vision for the UK.

Mr Galloway, leader of the Workers Party of Great Britain, presented his 34-page manifesto supported by a smattering of supporters and some of the 154 candidates standing for Westminster representing his party.

He committed to all workers having the option of retiring at 60, raising the tax-free allowance from 12,570 to 21,200 for two million low-paid workers, and boosting social housing in his voter giveaways.

Then, he warned the world is edging closer to nuclear Armageddon, but went on to pledge to scrap the UK's nuclear weapons, and withdraw the country from Nato.

Leader of the Workers Party of Britain George Galloway holds a copy of the manifesto during his partys manifesto launch on Wednesday ( Getty Images )

Described by Mr Galloway as a very beautiful document promising a brighter future, the manifesto includes chapters on redistribution, democratic reform and Palestine and referenced K-Pop and creeping buro-fascism.

The veteran politician spoke at the launch event at a hotel in Manchester, just a few miles south from Rochdale, where he became the town's MP in February, following a by-election after the death of Labour incumbent Tony Lloyd.

He promised a "staggering" breakthrough at the General Election for his party, which he described as the "antidote" to both Labour, who he said they seek to replace, and Nigel Farage's Reform Party.

"We are the spirit of Labour past or what it was supposed to be. Labour, long ago, lost its way, lost its purpose," he said.

A supporter hands-out placards during the Workers Party of Britain manifesto launch ( Getty Images )

Mr Galloway described both Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Mr Starmer as "sub-prime performers" with "vacuous" programmes, but said that Mr Farage at least "has something to say" - even if he is wrong.

His ten-point party programme begins with a pledge to end "imperialist wars" and Nato withdrawal, a subject he returned to.

Mr Galloway said: "We are potentially headed to Armageddon and if we don't get out of this death spiral, then none of this will have been worth arguing over at all.

"If Keir Starmer becomes the Prime Minister, within six months, Britain will be at war. I mean an actual war with British troops deployed.

"Don't arm these dangerous people with a super-majority in Parliament."

Leader of the Workers Party of Britain George Galloway arrives ahead of his party's manifesto launch at the Voco hotel in Manchester ( Getty Images )

Mr Galloway claimed the BBC has been "working" for Keir Starmer and Labour had been "made safe" for "the establishment" and the "Deep State".

He added: "The fact that Starmer is going to take us to disaster potentially, existential disaster, is a national emergency."

Mr Galloway said Britain had suffered decades of subservience to the EU and the US, making it a "vassal" of Washington and a country, he said, being led by a "senile dementia patient".

He claimed Royal Navy warships were in the Black Sea, the Red Sea and the South China Sea, "threatening others" rather than protecting their own coast.

And he described Nato as a "war machine" with the West led by leaders who want conflict while edging closer to a "game of nuclear bluff" with Russia, China and North Korea and only the "woke armies of the West" to defend itself.

Party pledges on cheap housing, free childcare, free adult education and public laundries would be paid for by scrapping UK's nuclear weapons, which Mr Galloway said cost the country 12,000 every minute.

Last month he faced criticism for blatant homophobia after saying he doesnt think that gay relationships are equal to heterosexual relationships.

Mr Galloway said he didnt want children to be taught that gay relationships are exactly the same and as normal as a mum, a dad and kids.

In March he accused the UK of being involved in last weeks Moscow terror attack in comments seized upon by a Kremlin-linked newspaper.

The Rochdale MP accused the US and the UK of lying about the involvement of Isis in the attack, which killed at least 139 people and injured around 360, on his talk show on YouTube.

The comments were quickly picked up by Rossiyskaya Gazeta, a newspaper published by the Russian government, which cited him as an expert discussing the attack.

Mr Galloway told The Independent at the time he had never heard of the Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

He has also repeatedly been accused of spreading conspiracy theories, including recently speculating that the Princess of Wales was dead and that the April 2022 Russian massacre of civilians in Bucha, just north of Kyiv, was likely staged.

Voters go to the polls for the general election on 4 July.
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The Conservatives are on course for their worst defeat in more than a century with high-profile names including Jeremy Hunt set to lose their seats, according to a new poll.

Adding further misery to a raft of gloomy polls for the government, the party will also be completely wiped out in Wales on July 4, the survey predicts.

Luke Tryl, executive director of More In Common UK, which carried out the research, said the findings showed that the Tories were in a deep hole and the problem was getting worse.

The poll, of more than 10,000 people, suggests they would hold on to just 155 seats, their worst total since 1906.

Labour would be on 406 and have a majority of 162, just shy of its 1997 and 2001 landslides.

As well as Mr Hunt, Tory casualties would also include defence secretary Grant Shapps, who would lose Welwyn Hatfield to Labour.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt would lose his seat according to the mega-poll (James Manning/PA) ( PA Wire )

The poll also forecasts the Liberal Democrats will quadruple the number of seats they hold, to 49, while the SNP will be reduced to 18 seats.

Labour will also become Scotlands biggest party for the first time since 2015.

But it predicts that Nigel Farages Reform UK will fail to take a seat.

The super poll also plots the effect of a last minute swing away from the Conservatives, potentially to Reform, which could leave the Tories with as few as 107 seats.

The data was collected between May 22 and June 17, including a period before Mr Farage announced his decision to stand in this election.

The results are the most favourable for the Conservatives of recent large-scale polls, but still predicts significant defeat.

A similar study by Ipsos on Tuesday projected the party would hold just 115 seats, a Labour majority of 256.

Mr Tryl said the fact that the poll is one of the more positive for the Tories "shows how deep a hole the party finds itself in" with barely two weeks left until polling day.

He said: "Far from the narrowing in the polls many expected to see by now, the Conservatives position instead appears to be getting worse and only a small move away from them could see them reduced to 107 seats.

"Labour on the other hand looks set to inherit a historic majority while remaining largely undefined in the eyes of the electorate."

Rishi Sunak has had a disastrous election campaign ( REUTERS )

But he warned that Labour was building a "broad electoral coalition" that the party could find is difficult to keep happy further down the line.

The poll, conducted on behalf of The News Agents podcast, asked 10,850 people.

Like other large-scale polls it used a technique called multilevel regression with poststratification (MRP) to model results at constituency level.

The poll also forecasts that the Greens will hold Brighton Pavilion, their only seat, but will fail to make gains elsewhere .
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The Labour Party has suspended a candidate following reports he shared pro-Russian material online.

Andy Brown, who is standing in Aberdeen North and Moray East, reportedly shared an article from Russian state media outlet RT following the Salisbury poisonings, which claimed the Novichok nerve agent used in the attack was never produced in Russia.

The article, shared by Mr Brown in April 2018, also claimed the toxin was in service in the US, UK, and other Nato states.

Dawn Sturgess, 44, died after being exposed to the nerve agent Novichok, which had been left in a discarded perfume bottle in Amesbury, Wiltshire, in July 2018.

Andy Brown is standing in Aberdeen North and Moray East ( Aberdeenshire Labour/Facebook )

It followed the attempted murders of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia and ex-police officer Nick Bailey, who were poisoned nearby Salisbury in March that year.

All three survived, as did Ms Sturgesss boyfriend, Charlie Rowley.

The Metropolitan Police identified three suspects wanted in connection with the poisonings: Denis Sergeev, Alexander Mishkin and Anatoliy Chepiga, who used the aliases Sergey Fedotov, Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov respectively while in the UK.

former Russian spy Sergei Skripal, his daughter Yulia and ex-police officer Nick Bailey were poisoned nearby Salisbury ( Getty Images )

According to the Press and Journal, in the same month Mr Brown also shared a quote from a Jewish historian which said: The real issue.. is that right-wing Jews in the Labour party and outside the party object to the fact that Jeremy Corbyn is a consistent supporter of Palestinian rights.

Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves has said she is very, very pleased that Mr Brown had been suspended.

Speaking to Sky News on Wednesday, Ms Reeves said: I hadnt heard of this guy until this morning and Im very, very pleased that I will hopefully not have to hear of him again because hes been suspended as a Labour candidate.

That is absolutely right. Weve taken the swift action.

As soon as these postings came to light, we got rid of him.

She added: People who dont share our values in the changed Labour Party are kicked out of the Labour Party, while the Conservative Party continues to harbour people like Liz Truss, who has caused so much damage to the lives of working people up and down the country.

Mr Brown will still appear as a Labour candidate on the ballot as the deadline for nominations has passed, meaning he will stand as an independent if elected on 4 July.

A spokesman for Scottish Labour said: Andy Brown has been administratively suspended from the Labour Party pending investigation.

We have taken the decision to withdraw support from a Parliamentary candidate during a General Election.

Anas Sarwar and Keir Starmer have changed the Labour Party and said that every candidate and MP would operate to the highest standards. This action shows that they meant it.
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Labour attempted to gag a prominent Black barrister who authored a report that exposed a hierarchy of racism within the party, The Independent can reveal.

In a letter sent by lawyers representing Labour, Martin Forde KC was warned that he was acting against the partys interest after he gave an interview highlighting Labours failures in relation to the report.

Mr Forde said the exchange had left him irritated, telling The Independent that the party cant silence me.

Speaking exclusively to The Independent, Mr Forde said he was irritated by Labours suggestion that he lacks professionalism ( Getty/Al Jazeera )

The Forde report, an independent inquiry into Labours culture that was published in July 2022, found that the party was an unwelcoming place for people of colour and had a toxic culture of factional disputes between the partys right and left.

In March 2023, Mr Forde gave an interview to Al Jazeera in which he said that no one from Labour had been willing to discuss the recommendations further and highlighted concerns raised by ethnic minority politicians within Labour about racism in the party.

In response, it has now emerged that the Labour Party sent Mr Forde a robust legal letter, seen by The Independent, accusing him of acting against the partys interests and advising him that it was considering all of its options.

Lawyers accused Mr Forde of having made extensive negative and highly prejudicial comments and questioned his professional conduct.

The Forde report, released in 2022, made 165 recommendations for change within the Labour Party ( Reuters )

Speaking to The Independent this week, the respected barrister said: I dont know if it was an attempt to silence me. I mean, theyve couched it carefully along the lines of Were reminding you of your professional duties, which I found mildly irritating because I am a regulatory lawyer, and I dont like my professionalism or ethics being questioned ... but I felt it was more.

He continued: Im a private individual; they cant silence me. I fundamentally object to people saying to me, You dont know how to behave as a professional. Im afraid that Black professionals get it all the time.

The Forde report made 165 recommendations, including the use of blind CVs in recruitment and changes to the complaints procedure, the majority of which the party says it has now implemented.

However, during his interview with Al Jazeera, the barrister claimed that Labours lack of debate and engagement over his findings at the time raised wider concerns. He described Labours antisemitism training as largely didactic, top-down and one-dimensional.

Martin Forde KC ( Al Jazeera )

The barrister also told the news outlet that quite a high proportion of Black and Asian councillors or prospective MPs felt theyd been subjected to disciplinary action which had been deliberately timed to exclude them from qualifying processes or selection.

On receipt of the legal complaint, Mr Forde responded via his own lawyers, in a letter, seen by The Independent, that dismissed the accusations as baseless. He said he did not hear from Labour on the matter again.

Mr Forde said he read the correspondence from Labours legal representatives as an indication that they might report him to his regulatory body.

He said: I was surprised to receive those letters, and was also surprised by the tone and content, because I thought I had a sufficiently good working relationship with the general secretary for him simply to ask me what Id said, adding: All he had to do was pick up the phone.

Labour has seen rows over the candidacies of Faiza Shaheen (left) and Diane Abbott during the election campaign ( PA/Getty )

The Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer, has been accused in recent weeks of enacting a purge on the Labour left, following selection rows over veteran MP Diane Abbott and Chingford and Woodford Green candidate Faiza Shaheen.

Ms Shaheen was dropped as a candidate over a series of likes on social media posts, while it was briefed that Ms Abbott, who had recently had the Labour whip restored after she suggested that people from the Jewish, Irish and Traveller communities experience prejudice but not racism, would be barred from standing for the party. It has now been confirmed that she is allowed to stand as a Labour candidate.

When asked what people might make of the correspondence from Labour in the context of the arguments over Ms Abbott and Ms Shaheen, Mr Forde added: I am sure that people will definitely see it as a collateral attack on a Black professional.

Mish Rahman, a member of Labours national executive committee (NEC), told The Independent he was disappointed by the letter to Mr Forde.

This legal threat from the Labour Party to Mr Forde is consistent with the behaviour of Starmers Labour Party, which is intent on cracking down on any dissent or criticism rather than the actual perpetrators of racism, said Mr Rahman.

We also saw this in the partys pursuit of those it believed had leaked evidence of racism, and its defence of those who had made racist and bigoted comments.

The irony and double standards are astoundingly laid bare, said Labour NEC member Mish Rahman ( Getty )

Mr Rahman claimed that Mr Forde had been invited to attend NEC meetings on several occasions, but that Sir Keir and his general secretary had refused to allow it.

He said: As a member, I received countless correspondence from members about the delayed Forde report into racism in the party. It is now clear as day that Forde was suppressed by Labours leadership, and that they have attempted to cover up the reports disgraceful findings by stopping Forde from meeting the NEC.

Under Keirs leadership, the party operates a hierarchy of racism, where it doesn't take anti-Black racism and Islamophobia seriously, and instead punishes those like Martin Forde KC and Faiza Shaheen, who bring evidence of racism to light.

The irony and double standards are astoundingly laid bare.

A Labour Party spokesperson said: The Labour Party is fully committed to tackling racist and discriminatory attitudes wherever they arise, within and outside the party. Labour has apologised for the culture and attitudes expressed by senior staff that were examined by the Forde report.

We are proud the party has completed work on the recommendations made by Martin Forde, and want to place on record, once again, our thanks to Martin for his hard work.

Labour has introduced a new, independent complaints process, a code of conduct on Afrophobia, anti-Black racism and Islamophobia, and mandatory training for staff on Afrophobia and anti-Black racism.

We are delighted that Labour has more Black candidates, and Black male candidates in particular, than ever before.

The Independent also contacted Sir Keirs office for comment.

The leaked documents referred to in this report were made available by Paul Holden, an investigative journalist whose book will be published at the end of the year
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With the general election only days away, polling would suggest Labour is on track to win by a landslide. The latest figures put the party an average 20 points ahead of the flailing Conservatives, with as many 453 seats projected to turn red on July 4.

But despite the positive turn for the party, which has been in opposition for 14 years, it saw what may have been its most damaging row under Sir Keir Starmer at the end of May, as a fierce factional fallout took over its ranks.

It came after the partys governing body moved to bar several parliamentary candidates on the left of the party from standing at the upcoming general election. These included Faiza Shaheen, who is now standing independently, and Diane Abbott, who regained her candidacy following outrage both locally and nationally.

The row represented the culmination of a debate that has gripped Labours ranks since Sir Keir first became leader in 2019. It has left many voters with left-wing or progressive values feeling abandoned by the party, and unsure of where to go.

Sir Keir has changed the party, a fact he regularly draws upon in his campaigning. Both in policy position and in rhetoric, the North London MP made clear his desire to draw a line between himself and the partys previous, more radical politics.

In doing so, his shadow cabinet has taken softer stances on issues such as public spending, welfare, and international issues like the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. It was inevitable that some supporters of those policies would become alienated as the partys priorities shifted.

Sir Keir Starmer, Angela Rayner and Rachel Reeves (Lucy North/PA) ( PA Wire )

In terms of the calculated decision Starmer has made, looked at purely from electoral logic, it makes sense, says Luke Tryl, Executive Director of the More in Common research group.

If Starmer was going to win back those voters Labour lost, particularly in places like the red wall, he was going to have to convince them that he had changed the Labour party and that it was different to what had come before under Corbyn.

Many argue that Sir Keirs move away from the left as Labour leader is a necessary gambit: in giving up part of the left-leaning vote, the party can work to resecure much more electorally slippery middle-ground voters, many of whom were lost in 2019.

But has the Labour leader gone too far?

Ive always voted Labour, and this will be the first time I wont, says Ranil Hewavisenti, 66, a resident of Chingford and Woodford Green.

It is sad, but I did see it coming since Starmers been elected.

Its a chilly, drizzly evening, but hes still out on the steps in north-east London, campaigning for now-independent candidate Faiza Shaheen, who he also knocked doors for in 2019 when she ran for Labour.

Ms Shaheen was barred for liking 14 tweets  some before she was a Labour member  which were deemed antisemitic or otherwise against the values of the party. In an emotional interview with BBCs Newsnight on May 29, she revealed she was in a state of shock, having only received the news a few hours prior.

Faiza Shaheen is interviewed on BBC Newsnight hours after her deselection is confirmed ( BBC Newsnight )

Taking to Twitter/X to voice her frustrations over Ms Shaheens treatment, Diane Abbott accused the party of undertaking an appalling  cull of left-wingers. The veteran MP was still embroiled in a deselection row herself at the time.

Sir Keir quickly denied Ms Abbotts assertion. The Labour leader says that the partys selection process is independent of his leadership and not based on factional preferences.

I want the highest quality candidates as we go forward, he told reporters. Im not picking a fight with anyone.

But Sir Keir has changed the Labour party. Making his first major speech after the general election was called, Sir Keir said he could be trusted because he had remodelled the party permanently," signalling a shift away from its ill-fated 2019 campaign under previous leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Later on the campaign trail, the north London MP even described the Conservatives 2024 manifesto as Jeremy Corbyn-style, due to policies which he called unrealistic and uncosted.

Mr Corbyn seems unbothered by the criticism from his former Brexit secretary. Im going to start charging rent for the peoples heads I live in, he says, sat in a busy cafe in his Islington North constituency.

He imagines that everyone in the country is worrying their heads about [me], theyre not. Most people are worrying about how theyre going to pay their bills. Theyre worrying where theyre going to live.

Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and Sir Keir Starmer in 2019 ( Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Labour membership figures hit a peak of 532,000 under Mr Corbyns leadership in 2019, dropping to 366,60 in 2024. The numbers might suggest dissatisfaction with the party, but its impossible to ignore the polling.

The most recent data from YouGov suggests that Labour is on track to win by a landslide. The respected research group predicts that the party could increase its seats by 220, to 422. The Tories are projected to gain only 140.

Mr Corbyn will now be running without the support of his buoyant former party for the first time since 1983. He is positive about his campaign: the veteran MP has held his seat at ten general elections, and clearly expects to do so again in July.

But pollsters are not so sure, and he admits that running as an independent candidate is not without its difficulties.The electoral law and electoral spending limit, its all designed to sustain a two-party system, he says.

Its not designed to encourage wider democratic participation.

A similar story is unfolding in Chingford and Woodford Green, where Ms Shaheens supporters are learning to run an independent campaign as they go.

A group of canvassers set off from an unassuming flat in Chingford. Most of them are former Labour voters, with 50 members of the local party recently resigning from the party in protest of Ms Shaheens deselection.

But it soon becomes clear that every doorstep requires more explanation: So, shes not the Labour candidate anymore?; and more convincing: I dont want to split the vote.

Faiza Shaheen and then-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn at a rally in 2019 (Gareth Fuller/PA) ( PA Archive )

And its this last point that would seem to hold back independent candidates the most. The Tories majority over Labour in Chingford in 2019 was only 1,262 votes. This was Labours best-ever result in the constituency, delivered by Ms Shaheen. Any votes not given to the party there in July stand to have a big impact.

Mr Tryl, of the research firm, says this is the factor that will likely ensure most Labour voters who are disenchanted with Sir Keir still stick to the party come July, and dont vote for an independent candidate or smaller party like the Greens. If it does cause Labour problems, it will be in isolated seats, he says.

My median assumption is that the Greens will have a very good result in Bristol Central  but it is hard to see Green gains across the board.

Green co-leader Carla Denyer is their candidate in Bristol Central, where the party is projected to win for the very first time. She says that voters from across the political spectrum have become more comfortable giving their votes to the party, and the numbers are there.

Over the last five local elections, the Greens have increased their local councillors nearly fivefold, up to 812 today.

It certainly is true that Labours slide to the right and abandoning of lots of policy pledges is turning out to be the final straw for a lot of people, Ms Denyer acknowledges. "And now weve got quite a few people out door knocking with us who were Labour voters or even members last time around.

One glance at the Green partys manifesto and you can see why this trend may have taken hold. An explicit vow to protect the NHS from privatisation, higher taxes from top earners, nationalising railways, water and energy.

For their part, Labour hasnt given up more radical policies completely. Their 2024 offerings include improved workers rights, a publicly-owned energy company, and introducing a new tax on private schools. But the Green Partys manifesto promises far higher revenue raising and public spending measures than any of the large parties.

Green Party parliamentary candidates Sian Berry, Carla Denyer, Adrian Ramsay and Ellie Chowns (PA) ( PA Wire )

I think its worth saying that the Greens have always been in this position, Ms Denyer adds. Its Labour whos blown with the wind left and right depending on where they think they can get the most votes.

But recent polls indicate that its unlikely the party is going to simply mop up all of Labours disillusioned voters.

I think a more reasonable concern to the Labour party is what happens should they get into government, says Mr Tryl.

The low enthusiasm doesnt damage them electorally, but means that they have a very short honeymoon period. Things could turn south quite quickly.

Projections suggests that most will stick with Sir Keirs Labour party to remove the current Conservative government. The challenge for the leader will come afterwards: will he attempt to unite his broad coalition of support as prime minister, or move his policies ever further away from the radical agenda he first pushed when he entered politics in 2015?

Either way, his predecessor believes it will be a formative time for UK politics: You know what? says Mr Corbyn, this might be the development of some very interesting political trends in Britain.
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As Nigel Farage launched his bold manifesto aimed at attracting unhappy Tory voters, Ive been taking questions from Independent readers on the divisive Reform leader and his plans for Parliamentary domination.

On Monday, Mr Farage predicted he would become prime minister after the 2029 election as he unveiled Reform UKs contract with the people.

While right-wing supporters cheered Reform UKs pledges, economists and experts criticized the manifesto for its unrealistic economic plans and environmentally harmful anti-net zero policies.

Reforms pledges came as Mr Farage was pegged to win in his constituency of Clacton in Essex by pollster Ipsos.

Amid the growing conversation around the former Ukip and Brexit Party leader, many have been left asking how Mr Farage  who has failed to secure a seat in Parliament seven times  gets so much airtime and if he could feasibly be prime minister in 2029.

Here are nine questions from Independent readers  and my answers from the Ask Me Anything event.

Q: Why does anybody imagine that Nigel Farage has anything interesting to offer?

Swayne

A: Whether we like Farages views or not it is hard to ignore his influence on British politics. Brexit would not have happened without him and his two parties (Ukip and the Brexit Party). While for his critics he appears to be a clown and a caricature of a cartoon-like rightwinger, for others he is a hero.

He is willing to take on issues where normal politicians fear to tread. He is the one who put the small boats on the agenda and then took on the banks cancelling peoples bank accounts. The latter was arguably a public service which helped a wider community than the Brexiteer core he normally represents.

Another journalist from the BBC remarked to me a few months ago that they believed Farage to be the most influential UK politician of the 21st century. I would argue it was Blair but Farage is certainly a close second. He once told me when we met in Washington DC at the CPAC conference that he was the father of populism. I think that is true in that Trump, Melone and others followed Farage.

When Le Pen remodelled her fathers fascist party and tried to make it more acceptable she followed Farages playbook and based National Rally on Ukip. What we are seeing worryingly emerge in Europe with right-wing parties is linked to the Farage effect.

It is proof you do not necessarily need to be elected to parliament to be influential. While many will see him as an irrelevant extremist they ignore him or discount him at their peril.

Q: Why is he given so much airtime? There are other smaller parties with arguably more sensible policies to offer.

Petresy

A: The broadcasters have a public service obligation to provide balance in their coverage and be impartial. Similar complaints have been made against the Greens in the past. The simple answer is that while a party he has led has only won one seat at a general election (Clacton in 2015) and two in by-elections, his parties have polled highly.

He also led Ukip to victory (biggest party) in a European election (2014) and repeated that with the Brexit Party (2019). There is an argument to be made that, whatever people think of his policies, he is the most influential British politician since Tony Blair.

Of course, his recent airtime was as an employee of GB News but in this election with Reform running third in the polls consistently and second to Labour in two polls, it is hard to exclude him from the airwaves. To do so would probably fuel his argument that there is an establishment conspiracy trying to silence the views of ordinary British people.

It is rather ironic given that he comes from the establishment himself but, as we are seeing on the European continent and in the US, this populist argument is gaining a lot of traction. To deliberately exclude people like Farage from the airwaves will only make his case appear stronger.

Q: Reform is a limited company and not a party. How could this could play a part in the election  what do voters need to know and what could that mean for the future of Reform?

Shila Ledbrook

A: This is a question which needs addressing after the election. Reform is certainly not democratic in the way it is run. We saw that when Nigel Farage decided to ditch one of its policies live on air without any consultation.

He and Richard Tice are the two major shareholders. There is a serious question over whether a political party can be run like this without any proper accountability to its members.

Certainly, if Farage wants to lead a new Conservative Party or party of the centre-right then he will have to get used to an organisation where he cannot be a mini dictator deciding policy on the hoof and have one where members can hold the leadership to account.

To a certain extent though this issue is as relevant to the Tories and Labour, especially in the way they imposed friends and allies of the leaderships on constituencies where the seat was winnable.

Q: Why isnt the MSM not pointing out the numerous lies that came from Remain supporters?

BrummieGuy

A: I think the mainstream media is doing that. One of our front pages this week talked of the delusions of Farage, for example.

His predecessor Richard Tice was being pressed heavily even by GB News on the way the contract with the people did not add up.

The issue is that Farage in particular is a very skilled politician. There is not a question he has not heard before, he does not need an autocue and he loves the fact that he is counter-cultural and upsets people in polite society.

Like all the most effective populists - including Trump, Meloni, Le Pen, Orban and Wilders - he can reframe a question as being part of the establishment or mainstream conspiring against ordinary people.

Its never about them until it comes to the glory, all attacks are attacks on hard-working people. The strategy is very effective and the best interrogators struggle to pin Farage down.

Q: What do people have to lose by voting for Reform? Why on earth would any sane person vote for Lib-Lab-Con, given the mess theyve already made of everything?

AndrewAndrew

A: This is Farages main offer. The others are mostly the same trying to occupy the same ground. It is why he is so effective and why so many Tory voters have appeared to have switched.

We will see though if they really do vote Reform on 4 July. After all there is only one poll that counts.

Q: In a mythical reform government, who would be chancellor? Home secretary? Foreign secretary? Would Farage fill all these positions?

RG50

A: Politics in five years could be very different. People none of us know about currently are likely to emerge.

Q: On Farages statement that hell run for PM in 2029: Dont you need a majority government before you can run for PM?

ElectricWorm

A: If the centre-right forms the majority and he is leader then the King will have to ask him to form a government.

A lot of ifs there though.

Q: Whats the likelihood of Reform chipping away enough of the Tory vote for them to consider inviting him to join/lead their party?

Jimmy

A: If the Tories get less than 100 seats and someone on the right gets elected leader there is a good chance Farage would be invited to join.

What happens then? Farage does not like following others. So yes there is a path for this to happen even if other outcomes are more likely.

Q: After his current moment of fame in the UK, will Farage be off to the USA for another moment of fame in the autumn?

Horatio

My answer:

A: I think the issue here is will Farage win his seat? If he does then he is in for a five-year haul of trying to build a coalition on the right with the Tories perhaps and a bid to become prime minister. Even if that does not work he will be stuck in parliament and using that as a platform.

If he fails in Clacton then it may be a race between him and Rishi Sunak as to who heads over the pond first. There is no doubt Farage is happy in the US where he is immensely popular but faces none of the physical danger he is exposed to here which is why he can go nowhere in the UK without security.

Trump would almost certainly give him a job, the two are great friends. Even if Trump does not win he could be part of the rebuild of the Republican populist right.

These questions and answers were part of an Ask Me Anything hosted by David Maddox. Some of the questions and answers have been edited for this article. You can read the full discussion in the comments section of the original article.

Our chief political commentator John Rentoul sends a weekly Commons Confidential newsletter exclusive to Independent Premium subscribers, taking you behind the curtain of Westminster. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, head here to find out more.
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The billionaire founder of Phones4U who donated 500,000 to the Tory party in 2019 has switched his support to Labour in a fresh blow to Rishi Sunaks stuttering election campaign.

John Caudwell has said he will be voting for Labour citing his amazement at Sir Keir Starmers transformation of the party.

Phones4u founder John Caudwell ( PA )

Mr Cauldwell was one of the biggest donors to the Tories ahead of the 2019 general election, when he gave half a million pounds to Boris Johnsons campaign.

Encouraging everybody to vote for Labour, Mr Caudwell said he was amazed by how Keir Starmer brought it back from that Corbyn brink.

Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ( PA Archive )

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he was delighted that Mr Caudwell had thrown his support behind the changed Labour Party.

He said: The message is clear: business backs change and economic stability with Labour, and rejects five more years of chaos and decline with the Tories.

John was not just a Conservative voter but a substantial donor to the Conservative Party in 2019  so its not a decision that he will have taken lightly.

But its clear that he shares my plan for growth that I set out in the Labour manifesto.

Im campaigning non stop between now and 4 July to win the votes of other people who have backed the Tories in the past but see change with Labour as the best future for Britain.

Rishi Sunaks Conservatives are heading for a record defeat on July 4, according to a mammoth poll from Ipsos ( PA Wire )

Mr Caudwell said he had supported the Conservatives for 51 years but had been despairing about their performance for many years.

He said: Only five years ago, I donated half a million to the Conservatives to help avert the disaster that would have been Jeremy Corbyn in Downing Street.

But Ive been increasingly critical of Tory failures since then, particularly over Rishis mismanagement of the economy during Covid, Boris lowering of ethical standards and, of course, associated with that the accusation that Tory cronies benefited improperly regarding Covid PPE  and then the Liz Truss debacle.

Over the last two years especially, I have been amazed by how Keir Starmer has transformed the Labour Party and brought it back from that Corbyn brink.

As I have always said, the Government must be much more commercially minded to grow GDP in order to finance the public services that benefit all of society without increasing taxes.

When Labour launched its manifesto last Thursday, I was delighted to see that accelerating economic growth was front and centre, and that projected growth is clearly tied into making Britain a clean energy superpower.

So, I can declare publicly that I will vote for Labour, and I encourage everybody to do the same.

We need a very strong Labour government that can take extremely bold decisions and you can rest assured that I will be doing my best to influence them wherever I can, in putting the great back in Britain.

The setback came as Rishi Sunak was warned he is fighting the wrong campaign after placing his hopes on Boris Johnson stave off an election meltdown.

Flock of sheep flee as Rishi Sunak and David Cameron try to feed them. ( Ben Birchall/PA Wire )

The prime minister today took a trip to southwest England in a bid to rescue seats from a pincer movement by Nigel Farages Reform UK on the right and Labour and the Liberal Democrats on the left.

But as Mr Sunak was openly mocked by his rivals amid images of him speaking on hay bales and sheep running away when he tried to feed them, former chancellor George Osborne, who ran the winning election campaigns in 2010 and 2015, heaped criticism on the beleaguered prime minister.

Osborne said: He should be trying to defend his blue wall seats which is where Labour are now running riot rather than focusing on the red wall seats that Boris Johnson won five years ago when, by the way, the Labour candidate was Jeremy Corbyn so it was a completely different election from having Sir Keir Starmer.

In a bad day for Mr Sunak, two more polls delivered further bad news with Savanta finding that only one in five voters (21 per cent) believe his promises on reducing immigration, with 27 per cent thinking Labour were more likely to stop the boats.
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Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg said Reform UKs manifesto is a whole load of nice-sounding pledges that dont add up - then joked the right-wing party had taken his best policies.

The Brexiteer is facing a battle for his political future in North East Somerset and Hanham where regional mayor Dan Norris is projected to win the seat for Labour, according to the latest polls.

Canvassing on Tuesday, Mr Rees-Mogg, who has held the seat since 2010, came across voters in the constituency who said theyd be voting for Nigel Farages Reform UK.

It comes after the party released its so-called contract for the people with policies set to appeal to right-wing voters, including pulling Britain out of the European Convention on Human Rights and scrapping net zero targets.

Speaking to The Independent, Mr Rees-Mogg, who is a well-known admirer of Mr Farage, dismissed the partys manifesto and described some of its representatives as nutty candidates who like Hitler.

But when discussing some of the policies, including increased spending on defence and scrapping 20mph speed zones, he joked: They are cribbing from me - they have stolen all my best policies.

He later added: The broad Tory family shares a lot of things positions in common, and thats why Im keen the Tory family should be reunited. Its obviously not going to happen before the election but try and do it after the election would be a good thing.

Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg spoke of his admiration for Nigel Farage from within the North East Somerset and Hanham Conservative Association office ( The Independent )

Reform UK, Mr Rees-Mogg said, faced the problem of being a new party with no time to think things through and no prospect of getting into government.

So it puts together a whole load of nice-sounding pledges, he said. Even in the very unlikely event Reform won the election, they wouldnt happen because they dont actually add up.

He said the party lacked the infrastructure to filter out really bad and ill thought-through ideas, and did not hold back on the partys 609 candidates after one, Jack Aaron, made comments online saying Hitler was brilliant at using his personality to inspire people into action.

Mr Aaron, a psychologist, has since defended himself, saying he was not implying Hitler was a good person to admire.

Mr Rees-Mogg said: They have got all these nutty candidates who like Hitler, you know, that is not serious. And people voting for them know that they are not serious or going to win.

On Tuesday, Mr Farage threatened to report the vetting company hired by Reform UK to the police for failing to run background checks on all candidates before the snap summer election.

Nigel Farage on his show talking to Jacob Rees-Mogg in the studio at GB News before his new show Jacob Rees-Moggs State of The Nation last year ( PA )

Mr Farage is forecast to win a seat in Clacton for Reform, which he declared was now the real opposition after a YouGov poll had Reform ahead of the Conservatives for the first time.

Mr Rees-Mogg said: Id like Nigel [Farage] to play a senior role in the Conservative party.

Asked if he could be the next leader, he said: I think its difficult [for Mr Farage] to be the next leader of the Tory party when hes telling anybody not to vote for it  that creates certainly at least a short-term barrier.

I would like to see the right, the broad conservative family come together and I would expect there would be a role for Nigel within that, I want there to be a role for Nigel within that.

Also standing for North East Somerset and Hanham is Dan Norris for Labour, Dine Romero for Lib Dems, Paul MacDonnell for Reform UK, Edmund Cannon for the Green Party, Nicholas Hales, independent, and Barmy Brunch for Monster Raving Loony Party.
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Children who go to private school or a Russell Group university may have better health in mid-life, research suggests.

A new study found that, by age 46, those who went to private school were more likely to be a healthy weight, have lower blood pressure and perform better on one cognitive task than those who went to state schools.

Meanwhile, people who went to a Russell Group university  which includes Oxford, Cambridge, Birmingham, Bristol, Warwick, University College London and York  performed better on memory tests such as recalling words and naming animals, and tests designed to check attention and visual abilities.

For example, attending private school was linked with a 14% lower body mass index than people in state schools, while attending a Russell Group university was linked to a 16% better memory recall and 10% better naming ability.

The researchers said the findings back up previous studies, which have found a link between education and good health.

They suggested several factors may explain the results, such as smaller class sizes and more activities at private schools; better job prospects leading to more money and improved health; peers at private schools and higher-level universities potentially displaying healthier behaviours; and more experienced teachers and high-achieving peers influencing peoples health throughout their life.

The team, including from University College London, concluded that after adjusting for factors such as whether parents had degrees and were involved in their childs education, private school attendance was associated with better cardiometabolic outcomes than comprehensive school attendance.

After being fully adjusted, attending higher-status universities was associated with better cognitive function, while having no degree was linked to poorer health compared with normal status university attendance.

The study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, included 8,107 people born in 1970, of whom 570 attended private school and 554 went to a Russell Group university.

The authors said the study was observational and things such as the influence of family income can be hard to fully capture.

Children in the study also went to school in the 1980s and 1990s amid significant reforms in the UK education system, they said.

Future policies aimed at reducing health inequalities could take education quality into account as well as attainment Study authors

The authors said: The generalisability of the results to the present day remains unclear, especially given the changes in the education system in recent years.

They added: Our findings suggest that the type of education could potentially contribute to understanding the links between education and health. Moreover, if this association is causal, future policies aimed at reducing health inequalities could take education quality into account as well as attainment.

This is particularly important given the increases in university attendance, in which other aspects of the education experience may better distinguish health inequality.
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A record-breaking 11 cabinet ministers have lost their seats as Rishi Sunaks government faced a general election bloodbath.

Johnny Mercer, Grant Shapps, Gillian Keegan, Lucy Frazer, Penny Mordaunt, Michelle Donelan, Alex Chalk, David TC Davies, Victoria Prentis, Mark Harper and Simon Hart are among the Tory big beasts who have fallen as Labour claimed a dramatic victory.

Others who had been under threat, including chancellor Jeremy Hunt, business secretary Kemi Badenoch and home secretary James Cleverly, clung on despite challenges in their seats. Rishi Sunak had a scare in his seat too, going there to campaign eight times, but he won easily in the end taking almost half the vote.

Click here for our live coverage of the general election campaign.

Penny Mordaunt was among the high profile figures to lose their seats ( Sky )

Another big beast to go was Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg in North East Somerset but former home secretary Suella Braverman held off a challenge.

Defence secretary Mr Shapps has lost to Labour in Welwyn Hatfield while leader of the Commons Ms Mordaunt was defeated in Portsmouth North by the party. Veterans minister Johnny Mercer has been defeated by Labour in Plymouth Moor View.

Justice secretary Mr Chalk was defeated in Cheltenham to Liberal Democrat candidate Max Wilkinson and education secretary Ms Keegan has also been beaten heavily by the Liberal Democrats in Chichester. Ms Frazer, the culture secretary, loset her Ely and East Cambridgeshire seat to the Liberal Democrats. And Ms Donelan, the science secretary, lost her Melksham & Devizes seat to the Lib Dems.

The Tories lost all their MPs in Wales after it was confirmed Welsh secretary David TC Davies lost his seat in Monmouthshire to Labour. And Mr Hart came third in the Caerfyrddin constituency, with Plaid Cymru's Ann Davies taking top spot. Becoming the 11th cabinet minister to be ousted, transport secretary Mr Harper was defeated by Labour in the Forest of Dean.

Grant Shapps was one of the first big beasts to fall ( James Shaw/Shutterstock )

In his concession speech, Mr Shapps hit out at the Conservative indulgence that appears to have cost them the election, saying voters do not back divided parties. And in her own concession speech, Ms Mordaunt said the party had taken a battering.

While a key figure in the Tory party for decades, having been appointed vice-chairman in 2005, it was after the 2019 election win that Mr Shapps became higher-profile in Government.

He has held five Cabinet positions since then  from the roles of transport secretary and home secretary to energy security secretary as well as business secretary, and most recently defence secretary.

After a short-lived Tory leadership bid in 2022, Mr Shapps became a major backer of Liz Trusss rival Rishi Sunak in that contest.

Jacob Rees-Mogg lost his North Somerset seat to Labour ( Jonathan Brady/PA Wire )

Mr Shapps is said to have recorded Tory colleagues doubts about Ms Truss in a running spreadsheet, wielded on a pricey foldable smartphone.

He oversaw the transport department during the Covid-19 pandemic and the ensuing airport chaos as travel resumed, and faced criticism for failing to engage with unions over industrial action.

The exit poll put Sir Keir Starmer on course to complete one of the most remarkable turnarounds in British political history forecasting a huge Labour victory that will sweep him into Downing Street with a majority of 170.

As polling stations closed at 10pm, the exit poll predicted that Labour will win 410 seats, the Tories 131, the Lib Dems 61, Reform 13 and the SNP 10. Outside the cabinet, Tory former deputy prime minister Dame Therese Coffey has been defeated by Labour in Suffolk Coastal. And, in a major upset, Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross lost his seat to the SNP by just under 1,000 votes.

Mr Shapps, who has lost to Labour in Welwyn Hatfield, said it was clear tonight that Britain will have a new government in the morning.

Gillian Keegan has also been shown the door by the electorate ( Sky )

He added: What is crystal clear to me tonight, is that it is not so much that Labour won this election, but that the Conservatives have lost it.

Door after door, voters have been dismayed by our inability to iron out our differences in private and then be united in public.

Instead, we have tried the patience of traditional Conservative voters with a propensity to create an endless political soap opera out of internal rivalries and divisions which have become increasingly entrenched.

Today, voters have simply said, if you cant agree with each other, we cant agree to vote for you.

We forgot a fundamental rule of politics, that people do not vote for divided parties.

In a stunning upset, Ms Keegan secured only 13,368 votes, with Lib Dem candidate Jess Brown-Fuller on 25,514. And Ms Mordaunt, who was a frontrunner for the Tory leadership after the election, was beaten by around 1,000 votes by her Labour rival. She won 13,715 votes, while Labours Amanda Martin won 14,495.

In a concession speech during which she was on the brink of tears, Ms Mordaunt said: Tonight, the Conservative Party has taken a battering because it failed to honour the trust that people had placed in it.

You can speak all you like of security and freedom, but you cant have either if you are afraid, afraid about the cost of living or accessing healthcare, or whether the responsibility you shoulder will be recognised and rewarded, that fear steals the future and it only makes the present matter, and that is why we lost.
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The United States has halted inspections of avocados and mangoes in Mexicos Michoacan state after two US Agriculture Department employees were attacked and detained.

Two employees of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), which operates under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), were recently attacked and detained while inspecting avocados, according to the United States Embassy in Mexico.

The two employees have since been released; however, the embassy wrote that APHIS has suspended the inspections of avocados and mangoes in Michoacan to ensure the safety of the agricultural inspection team.

The statement did not go into further detail about how the two employees were attacked, where, and for how long they were detained. The inspections will be suspended until the safety issues have been resolved.

The Independent has contacted the Department of Agriculture for further information.

The pause in this state does not impact other Mexican states, where other APHIS inspections continue. It does not block all exports of avocados or mangoes into the US, or stop any product in transit.

A USDA spokesperson also confirmed that the inspections had been paused until further notice.

"The (safety inspection) programs will remain paused until the security situation is reviewed and protocols and safeguards are in place," the USDA spokesperson told Reuters.

United States Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar wrote in the statement that he has been closely monitoring the situation and remains in direct contact with officials from Mexicos state and federal governments.

Next week, Salazar intends to travel to Michoacan to meet with Governor Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla and the Association of Producers and Export Packers of Mexico to address security.

Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla told reporters on Monday that Mexican authorities were in discussions with US officials to try and resolve this situation quickly, according to The Associated Press.

The governor told Mexicos Radio Formula on Tuesday that the inspectors had been stopped in a protest by residents of Aramza in the state on Friday, the AP reported, adding that he downplayed the situation and suggested they were never at risk.

Governor Ramirez Bedolla told the radio station that he reached out to the US Embassy the next day and that the state forces were providing security for the avocado producers and packers.

While avocado exports will continue in other areas, Michoacan is known to be Mexicos biggest export of avocados, the outlet reports, meaning the demand for the fruit in the United States could eventually rise.

If the suspension is prolonged, this could cause a blow to one of Mexicos top farm exports, with avocados earning the nickname green gold, and US consumers, who often eat the fruit as guacamole or as avocado on toast.

The suspension comes as tensions surround criminal organizations interest in one of Mexicos most profitable food exports.

Some drug cartels are reportedly extorting avocado producers in Michoacan, threatening growers or their families with kidnapping and death unless they shell out protection money over their acres.

Gang members have also reportedly transported avocados grown in other states that have not been approved for export, and tried to send them through the US inspection process.

The cartels also have been accused of preying on orchard owners, laborers who pick the avocados, and the drivers who transport them to the United States, according to The Los Angeles Times.

It is not the first time that the US has suspended the inspection of Mexican avocados, having done so in February 2022 after a US plant safety inspection in Michoacan received a threatening message The pause lasted for around a week.

The swarm of organized crime comes as Mexicos avocado industry has seen its value quadruple over the last decade, with the crop being the countrys second most valuable in 2022, according to Insight Crime.
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Boeing CEO David Calhoun apologized to the families of crash victims, saying the embattled company was totally committed to future aircraft safety, as he faced an intense grilling at a special Senate hearing.

Calhoun appeared in front of a Homeland Security investigations subcommittee on Tuesday, where he was questioned on production inspection processes, and whistleblower safety as well as facing calls for his resignation.

I want to personally apologize, on behalf of everyone at Boeing. We are deeply sorry for your losses. Nothing is more important than the safety of the people who step on board our airplanes, he told the families in attendance. Every day we seek to honor the memory of those lost through a steadfast commitment to safety and quality.

It comes as Boeing faces a string of lawsuits relating to manufacturing malpractice after a door plug of a 737 Max 9 blew off during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. Before this Max jets also crashed in 2018, in Indonesia, and 2019 in Ethiopia, killing 346 people.

Family members of victims  along with those of whistleblowers  attended the hearing, many carrying pictures of their loved ones. Some had painted their hands red, symbolizing the perceived blood on the hands of the company.

David Calhoun was grilled on manufacturing practices, whistleblower safety as well as facing calls for his resignation at Tuesdays Senate hearing ( AP )

Kicking off proceedings, hearing chair Senator Richard Blumenthal told Calhoun: This hearing is a moment of reckoning. It is about a company, a once iconic company known for engineering excellence and product prowess that somehow lost its way.

For a while, some started believing that Boeing had changed, but then this past January, the facade literally blew off the hollow shell that had been Boeings promises to the world, and what that chasm had been exposed we learned there was virtually no bottom to the void that lay below.

He continued: Mr Calhoun you were brought in to the company as CEO to turn this company around... you and your board of directors have a duty to your shareholders. But they will be deeply ill-served if you fail to correct the root cause of this broken safety culture.

You have a duty to demand the highest safety standards... and that speak up in fact means speak up means shut up, as it is meant all too often. Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning calls and start thinking about the next generation.

It is not enough for Boeing to shrug its shoulders and say mistakes happen. This is not an industry where its okay to cut corners.

Calhoun acknowledged certain failings at Boeing, telling the committee We are responsible. He maintained, however, that he was proud of the companys safety record.

Some family members of Boeing crash victims had painted their hands red, symbolizing the perceived blood on the hands of the company ( AP )

During a tense exchange with Missouri Senator Josh Hawley, he was accused of strip mining the company.

It was one of the greatest American companies ever. It has employed thousands of people in my state, and you are strip mining it for profit, shareholder value, and youre being rewarded for it, Senator Hawley told him.

In a measured response, Calhoun responded: Im sticking this through. Im proud of having taken the job. Im proud of this safety record, and Im proud of our Boeing people... I am proud of every action we have taken.

Mr Hawley shot back: Youre proud of the record?... Wow. Wow. Theres some news for you... Frankly, sir, I think its a travesty.

Senator Hawley later accused Calhoun of trying to blame the companys problems on the employees, telling him Youre the problem.

Calhoun began his testimony by turning and apologizing directly to the families of those who had died in Boeing crashes ( AP )

I just hope to God you dont destroy this company before it can be saved, he added.

Also present at the hearing were family members of whistleblower John Barnett  one of two men who have spoken out against the manufacturer. Both have since died.

Barnett, 62, a quality control engineer at Boeing for 32 years, was found dead at a South Carolina hotel in March, from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A coroner later ruled that he died by suicide. At the time he was testifying in a lawsuit against the aircraft manufacturer.

Asked how he felt about the news of Barnetts death, Calhoun replied: Heartbroken.

He continued: I do know that that process was taken up by the governor authorities and was looked into, and they came out with a determination that I know nobodys satisfied within the Barnett family, and I understand that.

Family members of crash victims attended the hearing, many carrying pictures of their loved ones ( AP )

In a previous statement, Barnetts family said that they hold Boeing responsible for his death, even if the company had not pulled the trigger.

Following the hearing, Barnett family attorney, Rob Turkewitz said that the courage of Barnett and his fellow whistleblowers had woken up the government and the American people the the major safety crisis.

We heard loud and clear that John Barnetts lifes work was not in vain, Turkewitz said, in a statement shared with The Independent.

Johns legacy is the bravery he showed in blowing the whistle on Boeing, and his tireless commitment to public safety... Calhoun in no uncertain terms was admonished by U.S. Senators that turning a deaf ear on whistleblowers would not be tolerated and had to change immediately at Boeing.

Emotions ran high as the roughly two-hour hearing concluded, with family members of crash victims shouting at Calhoun as he left the chamber.

How could you? How could you? one woman was heard to shout. Calhoun did not appear to reply.
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A manhunt for a very dangerous armed felon, who is wanted in connection with four killings across two states, has focused on a small Arkansas town after police said he had purchased camping gear and was still in the area.

Stacy Lee Drake, 50, has a warrant out for his arrest in Alabama for homicide, and is suspected of three other killings in Oklahoma.

All indications were that he was still in area of Morrilston, Arkansas, on Wednesday evening after having purchased camping gear, authorities said.

Surveillance footage photos of Drake, showed him wearing a flat cap to cover his face, a large backpack and carrying two plastic bags.

At 7.50pm on Tuesday, Morrilton Police Department (MPD) received a tip from state police about a stolen vehicle, parked at a local hotel, that had been spotted at the scene of a double murder in Oklahoma.

Photos of Stacy Lee Drake, released by authorities, appeared to show him with camping supplies in the area of Morrilston, Arkansas ( Arkansas State Police )

Drake, originally from Phoenix, Arizona, was captured on footage from the hotels parking lot.

The hotel was searched but Drake wasnt found. Police do not know whether the suspect was picked up in a vehicle or left the area on foot.

Drake is believed to be armed with a handgun and was described by authorities as very dangerous. He is around 511 and 185lbs.

Further images provided by police show Drake wearing a dark-colored shirt and sunglasses.

Anyone who has information about Drakes whereabouts has been urged to contact the Morrilton Police Department.

Stacy Drake caught on camera in Morrilton, Arkansas. He is suspected of four killings in Alabama and Oklahoma ( Morrilton Police Department )

Police in Sequoyah County, Oklahoma had requested help from state authorities following a double homicide in Gans. The bodies of a man and a woman were found inside a building near a state highway around 6.30pm on Monday.

The Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation said both had injuries consistent with homicide. The victims were transported to the medical examiners office for identification and to determine cause and manner of death.

Drake was identified by police as a person of interest in the killings.

One victim in the Oklahoma double homicide was named by family as Taylor Sharp. In a social media post, Sharps family urged people to be cautious if they encountered Drake.

A relative, Linda Biggs, posted on Facebook: My family needs prayers and we also want Justice for my nephew Taylor Sharp, he was one of the two murdered victims in Sequoyah County.

Drake in a recent mugshot. He is being sought by authorities and is considered armed and dangerous ( Arkansas State Police )

Everybody be cautious if you see the suspect Stacy Lee Drake he just murdered someone else in Morrilton and we dont know which way he is going, lock your doors and be safe.

Drake is a convicted felon with a sprawling rap sheet that includes burglary, kidnapping, armed robbery, and aggravated assault against an officer.

He was sentenced to 22 years in 2010 after being convicted of carjacking; being a felon in possession of a firearm; and brandishing a firearm during the carjacking, according to KSCB News.

Drake was accused of threatening a man with a .45 caliber pistol as the man left a grocery store and stole his wallet, food, and red GMC truck. He was chased by police for eight miles before he crashed the truck and was captured.

At the time, he was facing prosecution for at least four other crimes in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Alabama, according to the Tuscaloosa office of the FBI.
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Sixty-five pounds of cocaine worth more than $1m was seized by authorities after boaters found it floating in the Florida Keys.

Pictures of the massive haul showed around 21 individually wrapped packages, which were emblazoned with a large image of a North American bald eagle.

According to the Monroe County Sheriffs Office (MCSO), sailors on a private vessel came across the packages in the water seven miles from Islamorada, an archipelago south of Miami on Saturday.

The packages were suspected to contain cocaine, which was later confirmed by the US Border Patrol.

Samuel Briggs, Acting Chief Patrol Agent for the USBP said the estimated street value of the drugs was more than $1m.

Briggs shared a video to X, which showed the packages being confiscated by officers. We appreciate the support from Good Samaritans in our community, he wrote.

It is the third large haul of drugs to be confiscated in the area in the last two months.

In early June MCSO announced that 25 individually wrapped kilograms of suspected cocaine was found by scuba divers about 100ft underwater in Key Largo, in Florida.

The packages carried imitation pictures of the Nike sportswear logo and were also confiscated by Border Patrol.

The stash found on Saturday, is the third large haul of suspected drugs to be found in the area in two months ( Monroe County Sheriffs Office )

The divers stated they were removing what they thought was trash when the discovery was made, according to the MCSO.

The Sheriffs Office turned over the suspected narcotics to the US Border Patrol.

CBS Miami also reported in May that another package containing 65 pounds of cocaine was found by a beachgoer after it washed up along the Florida Keys.

The value of that find, authorities estimated, was also around $1m.
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The cold case murder of a firefighter who had his throat cut from ear to ear in Florida has been cleared after 37 years, detectives have announced.

William Billy Halpern was found beaten, stabbed, and strangled in his home in Miramar on October 21 1986. His body was discovered by his girlfriend at the time.

Police believe 28-year-old Halpern was killed because he inadvertently learned information that someone did not want to be released.

On Tuesday, Detective Danny Smith of the Miramar Police Department announced that the case was cleared after a suspect  Harry Collier  was identified. Collier was murdered himself seven months after Halperns death, according to local outlets

If he were alive today he would have been charged with Halperns murder, police said.

William Billy Halpern was found beaten, stabbed and strangled in his home in Miramar on October 21 1986 ( Miramar Police Department )

At a press conference, Smith said that Colliers fingerprint at the scene of a separate double homicide in the nearby city of Tamarac had similarities with that of the Halpern murder.

"In both of those scenes we had no forced entry, we had a use of a sharp-edged weapon, he said, according to NBC Miami.

We had, the method of binding all three victims was very similar and it was unique in the sense that the way that their hands were bound together and the fact that black electrical tape was used to bind them really painted a picture as to modus operandi, so the way that the murder scene in Tamarac was laid out, very similar if not exact to the Halpern murder scene.

Smith added that the department had received dozens of tips from the community that had led it to feel confident that Collier would have stood trial, had he been alive.

Harry Collier would have been arrested for Halperns murder, had he still been alive today ( Miramar Police Department )

Halpern was a former firefighter and bodybuilder who worked out at the Apollo gym in the city of Hollywood, Florida. His killing has been tied to a string of other murders in the 1980s that have since been linked with the gym.

The gyms owner, Hubert "Bert" Christie, and a former Miami-Dade Police Officer, Gilbert Fernandez, were arrested and later convicted in the murders of three other people.

Fernandez, now 70, is still serving his life sentence. Christie died in custody in 2000 at the age of 66.

Officials said on Tuesday that Fernandez, who had been a suspect in Halperns killing since the 1980s, had been excluded through DNA.

Halpern was a former firefighter and bodybuilder who worked out at the Apollo gym in the city of Hollywood, Florida ( Miramar Police Department )

Smith said Halpern had not been involved in the drug rings, home invasions, or other crimes the people at the gym were linked to, but likely had information on other crimes and murders.

"Definitely at the gym, he heard certain things about certain crimes and the idea is that he just wouldnt play ball, he was not going to keep quiet about it, he was really a loose end for those that could potentially be held responsible for their crimes as a result of what Billy may say," Smith said.

"He knew something that he just shouldnt have known and he heard something he shouldnt have heard."

The Halpern case has been cleared but its not yet closed. Detective Smith still believes there were others involved with Halperns murder, and the public is encouraged to contact police with any further information.
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A Florida man has been accused of killing a couple and their two children before burning their remains in a fire pit.

Rory John Graeme Atwood, 25, of Hudson, Florida, was arrested on 15 June and has been charged with at least one count of first-degree murder, the Pasco County Sheriffs Office said.

On 13 June, sheriffs deputies began searching for a young couple and their children after they were last seen near Nottingham Trail in Hudson, Florida, late in the evening on 12 June.

The couple were identified as Rain Mancini, 26, and Phillip Zilliot II, 25. Their children were identified as Karma Zilliot, six, and Phillip Zilliot III, five.

Rory John Graeme Atwood, 25, of Hudson, was arrested and charged with at least one count of first-degree murder ( Pasco County Sheriffs Office )

Atwood's sister-in-law reportedly called law enforcement after he called her husband to ask for his help in "burning trash." She told deputies that her husband "observed a puddle of blood and could see adult and child bodies over the video phone call."

According to court records, the young family lived with Atwood on his 10-acre property in Hudson, approximately 44 miles northwest of Tampa, the Tampa Bay Times reported.

When deputies arrived to question Atwood, he confirmed the identities of the missing family. He said a fight broke out between himself, Zilliot, and Mancini, which ended with their deaths, the sheriffs office reported He also reportedly confirmed that he burned their bodies in a fire pit.

The fight occurred after Atwood evicted the family from his residence on 1 June. He told deputies that they had stopped paying their rent.

On 12 June, the family returned to the property to gather their belongings. The adults had allegedly been drinking when the fight broke out. Atwood told deputies that Mancini was arguing with him and that Zilliot attacked him with a knife, according to WFLA.

Rain Mancini and her children, Karma Zilliot, 6, and Phillip Zilliot III, 5, are missing ( Pasco County Sheriffs Office )

He then said he disarmed Zilliot, who punched him in the head and grabbed a handgun that had "suddenly" appeared in the room, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

Atwood said the men struggled for the gun, which ended with him firing two shots into Zilliot's head, and added that Mancini had also been shot numerous times in the head and torso.

When asked why the children were dead, Atwood reportedly told law enforcement that he did not know and did not see the children after the fight, but speculated that their parents had killed them. However, deputies noted that Atwood knew the childrens remains were in the fire pit along with their parents.

Detectives claim that Atwood dragged the bodies to his firepit, and also tossed the gun and his bloodstained couch into the pit to destroy evidence.

During a search of the property this weekend, cadaver dogs found human remains in the fire pit. Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco said the medical examiner's office had not positively identified the remains, so Atwood is only charged with the first degree murder of a "John Doe," according to the Miami Herald.

Atwood pleaded not guilty during a court appearance on 17 June. He is being held without bond at the Land O'Lakes Jail.
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A pro-nudist campaigner, whose former partner is charged with attacking ex-speaker Nancy Pelosis husband with a hammer, has been expelled from court after allegedly trying to tamper with the jury in his trial.

Gypsy Taub, the former partner of defendant David DePape, was barred from entering the public gallery and the second floor of the San Fransisco courthouse where DePapes state trial was coming to an end, according to the Associated Press.

DePape, 44, was convicted last month and sentenced to 30 years in prison after being found guilty of attempted kidnapping of a federal official and assault on the immediate family member of a federal official.

Prosecutors found that DePape had attacked Pelosis husband, Paul Pelosi, who was 82 at the time, with the hammer after he broke into their San Fransisco home in October 2022.

Following his conviction in the federal trial, DePape is now undergoing a state trial stemming from the break-in.

The action to throw Taub out came after the judge said she was trying to tamper with the jury. On Monday and Tuesday, Taub, who is a high-profile pro-nudist activist in the Bay Area, was reportedly handing out pieces of paper with a website address on them.

Gypsy Taub, who has two children with David DePape, pictured outside his federal trial in November ( AP )

This website, which Taub runs, promotes conspiracy theories. The same website address was then also discovered on Tuesday graffitied in a womens bathroom near the courtroom.

The website reportedly includes false conspiracies about the trial, ABC7 reports.

You have been trying to corruptly influence one or more jury members, San Francisco Superior Court judge Harry Dorfman said before he asked two bailiffs to escort Taub out of the courtroom.

The judge barred her from the court before DePapes attorney, Adam Lipson, then proceeded to present his closing arguments to the jury.

He claimed that DePape had been living a solitary life and had gone down the rabbit hole of propaganda and conspiracy theories at the time he had broken into the Pelosis home under two years ago.

DePape was convicted of attempting to kidnap Nancy Pelosi and attacking her husband with a hammer ( AP )

DePape faces charges of attempting to sway a witness, false imprisonment, residential burglary, threatening a family member of a public official, and aggravated kidnapping.

Lipson is arguing that while his client was guilty of three of the charges, he claimed that prosecutors had not presented enough evidence to convict him of threatening a family member of a public official or aggravated kidnapping.

The attorney argued against the kidnapping charge by telling the jury that prosecutors did not prove DePape kidnapped Paul Pelosi with the intent to exact from another person money or something valuable, the AP reported.

Prosecutors have said that the thing DePape wanted from the alleged kidnapping was to create a video of Nancy Pelosi confessing to crimes he believed she had committed, but Lipson argued that the video did not exist and even if it did, it would not have had value.

When he broke into the Pelosis home, his intent was to confront and potentially hurt and assault Nancy Pelosi. That was his intent at that time; that has nothing to do with Mr Pelosi, he argued.

However, assistant district attorney Phoebe Maffei argued against this, saying that DePape actually told a detective he planned to get a crime-confessing video of Nancy Pelosi and post it on the internet, the outlet said.

Paul and Nancy Pelosi attend the Vanity Fair Oscar party in Beverly Hills in March ( Getty )

There is inherent value in a video of the speaker of the House confessing to crimes in her own home, Maffei rebutted.

DePape eventually testified in the federal trial that he decided to go after Nancy Pelosi as a means of getting her to admit alleged lies and corruption. He told the jury his plan was not to kidnap her but to interrogate her on camera in a unicorn costume.

He also admitted he broke into the Pelosis San Francisco home around 2am on October 28, 2022, and that he was set to take the then-speaker hostage and break her kneecaps if she lied to him. He also admitted to striking Paul Pelosi with a hammer after police appeared at the residence. He said his plan to put a stop to what he saw as government corruption was coming apart.

The Associated Press contributed to this report
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A 44-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a 2001 cold-case murder of a Maryland mom after cops used DNA evidence to identify her suspected killer decades later.

Leslie J. Preer, then 50, was found dead by a co-worker on May 2, 2001, in an upstairs bedroom of her home in the 4800 block of Drummond Avenue in the countys Chevy Chase area. The scene was a bloody one, with visible signs of a struggle in the home. An autopsy determined that she had died partly of blunt-force trauma.

But the case was ultimately closed and no suspect was ever identified, owing to a lack of leads.

That was until Tuesday, when Eugene T. Gligor was arrested in D.C. by the US Marshals Services fugitive task force in connection with the case.

Gligor, who was 21 and dating Preers daughter at the time of the killing, was connected to the crime after blood from the scene that had been in storage for more than two decades was submitted to a lab for forensic genetic genealogical DNA analysis in September 2022, police said.

Its been a hell of a day! Preers daughter, Lauren Preer, reportedly said of the discovery. He was my ex-boyfriend!

Authorities did not reveal details about how the blood that was given to the lab helped detectives identify Gligor, but Montgomery County police said hes been charged with first-degree murder.

Assistant Chief Nicholas Augustine of the Montgomery County Police Department described the investigative work as very tedious, requiring dedication from detectives.

We will go many years, whether its 20 or 40 years, to find out the answers and hold people accountable for violent incidents that happened in the past, he added.

Eugene Gligor, 44, was arrested Tuesday in connection with a 2001 cold-case murder ( Montgomery County Police Department )

Genetic genealogical DNA analysis allows investigators to compare crime scene DNA to samples submitted by customers of some of the private genealogical companies that have become popular among people exploring their lineage or looking for distant relatives.

It means suspects can be identified if someone from the same family tree has given a DNA sample to a company.

Gligor was identified as a potential suspect through such research, according to the Montgomery police statement

Shiera Goff, a Montgomery police spokeswoman, revealed on Tuesday that Gligor had a relationship or a prior relationship with a member of the Preer family at the time of the killing.

WTTG-TV reported that Gligor began dating Lauren Preer when she was 15, and their families knew each other. The exact nature of Gligors relationship with Laurens mother is currently unclear. Goff said she could not discuss a possible motive for the homicide.

When asked if Gligor was ever considered a person of interest by the family, Lauren Preer told WTTG-TV: No, not at all.

The elder Preer worked for Specialties Inc., an advertising production company in Northwest DC. She was found dead in a bedroom of her home after a colleague called police when she failed to show up for work.

In a 2022 interview, a Montgomery homicide detective, Tara Baione, told WTTG-TV that the crime scene was pretty brutal with a lot of blood.

You would just expect for someone to have seen or heard something, she added. But neighbors had reported hearing nothing unusual, and there were no signs of forced entry at the house.

Police also said at the time that Wisconsin Avenue neighborhood where she was found had a low crime rate and no problems had been reported before at the Preer home.

Gligor is currently in DC waiting to be extradited to Montgomery County where he will appear in front of a judge.
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A man has been arrested after being accused of raping a 13-year-old girl after he was recognized from a wanted poster by Queens residents, who then detained him.

Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, 25, faces a string of charges after he was taken into custody by authorities, including rape, robbery, kidnapping, sex abuse, menacing, unlawful imprisonment, among other charges.

The suspect was arrested early on Tuesday after members of the local community recognized the man from an NYPD information call-out.

Angela Sauretti, 23, told The Daily Beast that she was at the 108th Street Grocery in Queens at 1am on Tuesday with a friend when she recognized the man in a black hoodie.

I pointed him out, Sauretti told the outlet. Im like, Yo, thats him? [The friend] said, Yes, thats him. Thats what confirmed it. And everything just spiraled from there.

After that, Sauretti said she then grabbed the man in the hoodie. He tried to run, so I put him in a headlock, she told The Daily Beast.

He got something that his mother should have done to him, she added. Ill put it that way.

Inga-Landi became a suspect to the NYPD after detectives learned that a 13-year-old boy and girl were threatened with a machete-style knife after school last Thursday in Kissena Park, CBS reports.

It is alleged that the young teens had their wrists tied together with shoelaces before the girl was sexually assaulted.

Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, 25, has been charged with rape ( NYPD )

During the apprehension of Inga-Landi on Tuesday, Sauretti further explained that the man then kept on resisting and protested.

He said, Let me explain! Im like, Theres nothing to explain. Youre a rapist, she recalled to the outlet. He said, I dont care. Im like, What do you mean you dont care? Youre a rapist. He said, I dont care.

A group of other residents also reportedly got involved in trying to capture the man, such as a 67-year-old woman kicking Inga-Landi and taking off one of her shoes to hit him with it, the outlet reported.

Jeffery Flores also told CBS News he was among those who stopped the man from going anywhere after he was spotted in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

"I come and I just like grabbed him out the store because that situation got me mad like, you know?" Flores told the outlet. "I got two little sisters. Im about to have a daughter, you know? I couldnt just, you know, walk away.

The NYPD information wanted poster ( NYPD )

"After that, I aint gonna lie, everybody just started beating on him," Flores added, saying they used a belt to tie up his legs.

Inga-Landi fought to get away, losing his t-shirt and hoodie in the process, and managed to crawl under a car.

Like a cat, Sauretti told The Daily Beast, before NYPD officers arrived at the scene to arrest the man.

Sauretti told the outlet that detectives told those who apprehended the man that they made a citizens arrest.

"We found that the community was holding our perp, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said at a press conference Tuesday afternoon.

At the time, the community was trying to hold the perpetrator, waiting for the police, he fought with them, and the community still managed to hold onto him until we got there."

"I especially want to thank New Yorkers. There is no greater force multiplier than the eyes and ears of a fully engaged public," NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban also added.

This is exactly what we mean when we say public safety is a public responsibility and the past few days proved again that the people of the city could come together and get the job like no one else."

The NYPD offered up a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of the suspect, but Sauretti said that the money in no way influenced her to help police find the accused rapist.

Angela Sauretti, 23, who apprehended child rape suspect ( ABC )

I would have done it even if it wasnt a reward because, at the end of the day, I feel as if thats the right thing to do, she told The Daily Beast.

The suspect was treated at Elmhurst Hospital for minor injuries before being transferred to the 112th Precinct.

After the attack in Kissena Park last week, the man allegedly took the teenagers phones but left behind a shoelace, a red bandana, and a water bottle, which are all being analyzed by authorities, according to CBS.

The NYPD said that Inga-Landi is an Ecuadorian father of two who crossed the border into Texas around three years ago.

He was arrested at the time for illegal entry into the US but was released while awaiting processing.

"The perpetrator has made statements, after waiving Miranda rights, where he indicated that he has a drug problem, that he found the knife that he used to threaten the two teens, that this was the first time he had ever done anything like this," Kenny said.

Rape Crisis offers support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland, or visit their website at www.rapecrisis.org.uk. If you are in the US, you can call Rainn on 800-656-HOPE (4673)
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The shooter who killed five people and injured 19 others at an LGBTQ+ club that was a refuge in the conservative city of Colorado Springs pleaded guilty to federal hate crimes and was sentenced to 55 life terms in prison on Tuesday, but once again declined to apologize or say anything to the victims families.

Prosecutors nevertheless highlighted the importance of Anderson Lee Aldrich being forced to take responsibility for the hatred toward LGBTQ+ people that they say motivated the mass shooting. As part of a plea agreement, Aldrich repeatedly admitted on Tuesday to evidence of hate.

The admission that these were hate crimes is important to the government, and its important to the community of Club Q, said prosecutor Alison Connaughty.

Aldrich attacked a place that was much more than a bar, according to Connaughty, who described Club Q as a safe space for people in the LGBTQ+ community.

We met people who said this venue saved my life and I was able to feel normal again, she said. The sentence against Aldrich sends a message that acts of hate will be met with severe consequences.

Aldrich, 24, is already serving life in prison after pleading guilty to state charges last year. Federal prosecutors focused on proving that the Nov. 19, 2022 attack at the haven for LGBTQ+ people was premeditated and fueled by bias.

U.S. District Judge Charlotte Sweeney, the first openly gay federal judge in Colorado, heard heart-wrenching testimony from victims before accepting the agreement, which also includes a total of 190 years on gun charges and other counts.

Several of the survivors said they wanted the death penalty, but Sweeney explained that capital punishment had not been sought by prosecutors and would need to have been imposed by a jury. Instead, the life sentences will mean no drawn-out appeals and no more hearings where a hate crime defendant might become a symbol. She said Aldrich will never get out of prison and will face a miserable future, with a miserable end.

The survivors delivered harrowing accounts of the shooting and the fear and anguish theyve lived with since then. Several called for Aldrichs execution. The father of one victim said Aldrich should be shot like a dog.

Adriana Vance, whose son Raymond Green Vance was killed, said she wakes up screaming.

All I have left of his now is the urn that I speak to every night, she said. Aldrich knows nothing but hate and deserves death, she said.

One survivor -- who had been celebrating a birthday and performing as a drag queen that night -- expressed forgiveness for Aldrich, and focused on the communitys capacity to find joy despite the pain.

Ive had to look at my partner in a casket, attend funerals of my friends and deal with unspeakable trauma, said Wyatt Kent. I see this person as a hurt person, created by failures of systems around them designed to help. I forgive you. We, the queer community, we are the resilient ones.

Aldrich, appearing in an orange prison uniform with head shaved and wrists handcuffed, faced the victims as they spoke but declined to make his own statement when given the chance. Defense attorney David Kraut made no explicit mention of hate or bias in his comments.

Kraut said there was no singular explanation for what motivated the mass shooting, but mentioned childhood trauma, an abusive mother, online extremism, drug use and access to guns as factors that increased the risk his client would engage in extreme violence.

Defense attorneys in the state case had pushed back against hate charges, arguing Aldrich was drugged with cocaine and medication. In phone calls from jail with The Associated Press last year, Aldrich didnt answer directly when asked whether the attack was motivated by hate, saying only, thats completely off base. Aldrich previously pleaded no contest to state hate crime charges without admitting guilt.

Connaughty said evidence of Aldrichs hate for the LGBTQ+ community included two websites created by Aldrich to post hate-related content, a target found inside the defendants house with a rainbow ring that had bullets in it and the defendants sharing of recordings of 911 calls from the 2016 killing of 49 people at the gay-friendly Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida.
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Dallas megachurch pastor Robert Morris has resigned after admitting having inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in the 1980s, after a woman accused him of molesting her when she was 12 years old.

Gateway Churchs board of elders said in a statement, released on Tuesday, that theyd accepted the resignation from Morris, a senior pastor and a former member of Donald Trumps faith advisory board.

The board said it had hired a law firm to to conduct an independent review to make sure they have a complete understanding of the events from 1982 to 1987.

The pastors accuser Cindy Cemishire, previously told WFAA that Morris began abusing her on Christmas Day in 1982 when she was 12 years old. The pair had met when he was a traveling preacher and began preaching at her familys church in Oklahoma.

She said Morris and his wife and young son became close to her family and that he was staying at her house in 1982 when he asked her to come to his room. He told her to lay on his bed and then began touching her inappropriately, said Clemishire, now 52.

Gateway Churchs board of elders said in a statement, released onTuesday, that theyd accepted senior pastor Robert Morris resignation ( Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Clemishire said the abuse continued until 1987, when she told her parents.

In a previous statement, Morris admitted the innapropriate sexual behaviour but insisted that he had not had intercourse with the young girl.

When I was in my early twenties, I was involved in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in a home where I was staying. It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong, he said.

The board said that before Friday, they did not have all of the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse.

They said that their understanding of the extramarital relationship that Morris had discussed many times throughout his ministry was not that it was abuse of a 12-year-old child.

In his previous statement, Morris said the family forgave him when the situation was brought to light, at which point he began receiving counseling.

In March of 1987, this situation was brought to light, and it was confessed and repented of. I submitted myself to the Elders of Shady Grove Church and the young ladys father.

They asked me to step out of ministry and receive counseling and freedom ministry, which I did. Since that time, I have walked in purity and accountability in this area, Morris said in his statement, adding he and his wife met with the survivor and her family in 1989.

I asked their forgiveness, and they graciously forgave me, he said.

Morris (left) was also a former member of former president Donald Trumps faith advisory board ( AFP via Getty Images )

Clemishire told WFAA that though her family forgave him, they never supported Morris returning to the ministry.

I think leaders can get caught up and think its our responsibility to protect God and its not. Our responsibility is to protect the people, she added. God is bigger than all of that.

The church, based in the Dallas suburb of Southlake, was founded by Morris in 2000 and has multiple locations in the area and says over 100,000 people attend each weekend.

Morris, the founding pastor, has been politically active. He was among those on former President Donald Trumps evangelical advisory board. The Gateway Church hosted Trump on its Dallas campus in 2020 for a discussion on race relations and the economy.

Morris son, James Morris, is set to take over his senior pastor duties in 2025, according to the churchs website. The elder Morris will remain a primary speaker on weekends.

Morris confession comes after Dallas pastor Dr Tony Evans, 74, announced he was leaving the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, which he founded in 1976.

Evans, who was the first Black person to earn a doctorate of theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, announced his resignation after he lost the mother of his four children to bile duct cancer in December 2019 and remarried a year later.

He said he had chosen to leave because he had fallen short of the absolute supreme standard of truth he aimed to live due to sin.

He did not specify what the sin entailed, but added: While I have committed no crime, I did not use righteous judgement in my actions.
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Last year, Elon Musk had a message for advertisers who were fleeing his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, in droves.

"Go f*** yourself."

This week, the billionaire entrepreneur appeared to have changed his tune, in a bid to boost ad money spent on X, Axios reported.

At the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity on Wednesday, Musk insisted that his blunt remark was not addressed to all advertisers but only those insisting on censorship.

First of all, it wasnt to advertisers as a whole. It was with respect to freedom of speech, Musk told Mark Read, CEO of advertising giant WPP, during an onstage discussion.

It is important to have a global free speech platform where people with a wide range of opinions can voice their views. In some cases there were advertisers who were insisting on censorship.

He added that X was going to "support free speech rather than agree to be censored for money."

Chief Technology Officer of X Elon Musk speaks onstage during the Exploring the New Frontiers of Innovation: Mark Read in Conversation with Elon Musk session at the Lumiere Theatre during the Cannes Lions International Festival Of Creativity 2024 - Day Three on June 19, 2024 in Cannes, France. ( WireImage/Getty )

After Musk bought Twitter in 2022, right-wing accounts that had been previously banned  like those of conspiracy theorist and Sandy Hook school shooting denier Alex Jones, and white supremacist Nick Fuentes  were allowed back on the site.

Musk also introduced paid-for verification badges. In the past, users could only become verified on Twitter by meeting certain criteria including proving their identity with a valid photo ID. After Musk took over, he sold verified badges for $8 per month as part of a Twitter Blue subscription package.

Some X users quickly showed what a questionable idea this was by buying verified badges for famous people and brands, and tweeting from fake accounts.

I miss killing Iraqis, a fake -but verified - account claiming to be former president George W Bush tweeted.

Another fake, verified account claimed to be Nintendo of America, and posted an image of the companys flagship character, Mario, giving the middle finger.

Cant imagine why all the advertisers are pulling out of Twitter lmao, video game journalist Jason Schreier tweeted in response to the image.

Advertisers, afraid that their products or companies might be parodied or that ads might appear next to hate speech or other questionable content, left the site.

Musk addressed the issue on Wednesday after Read asked him what he meant when he told advertisers to go f*** yourself.

"Of course, advertisers have a right to appear next to content that they find compatible with their brands. That's totally fine," Musk said. "What is not cool is insisting that there can be no content they disagree with on the platform."

Read suggested that Musks comment showed that he understood the concept of brand safety.

I believe in sort of freedom of choice, Musk said. Advertisers have a right to appear next to content that they think is compatible to their brand.

A financial report issued this year, prepared by X and obtained by Bloomberg, revealed that the social media platform began hemorrhaging money when Musk took over two years ago.

In the first six months of 2023, the first full year under Musk's ownership, company revenue fell by 40 per cent from the same period the previous year, according to the report. The documents showed that X lost $456m in the first quarter of 2023, according to Bloomberg.
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A white mob burned down Opal Lees family home in Fort Worth, Texas in 1939. She was 12 years old.

Eighty-five years later, Lee, now 97, got the keys to a new home - at the exact same site.

The civil rights activist has spearheaded a national campaign for federal recognition of Juneteenth for decades, culminating with a symbolic 1,400-mile march from Fort Worth to Washington, DC, in 2016.

Juneteenth, the oldest annual commemoration of the end of slavery in America, was finally formally designated a national holiday in 2021, and Lee received the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year, recognizing her leadership as the grandmother of Juneteenth.

Im wanting young people to realize that we can make a difference. And so Im asking them to make themselves a committee of one to change somebodys mind, Lee told ABC News of her legacy of civil rights activism.

We know people who arent on the same page will change their minds, she added. Youll have to work at it. But if people have been taught to hate, they can be taught to love.

Civil rights activist and grandmother of Juneteenth Opal Lee moves into her new home in Texas on the same lot where a racist mob burned it down 85 years ago. ( AP )

June 19 also marks the anniversary of the attack that drove Lee and her family out of their home in 1939.

Shortly after Lees family moved into the predominantly white neighborhood, a mob of 500 people surrounded Lees family home, broke windows, dragged out furniture and then torched the property. Lee was sent to stay at a neighbors house, and her family buried the painful memory of the attack, according to Lee.

My God-fearing, praying parents worked extremely hard and they bought another home, she told the Associated Press. It didnt stop them. They didnt get angry and get frustrated, they simply knew that we had to have a place to stay and they got busy finding one for us.

Community groups and nonprofit housing organization Habitat for Humanity, which owned the land where her familys home once stood, helped build and furnish a new house on the property within three months, in time for 2024s Juneteenth holiday.

People gather outside Opal Lees new home in Fort Worth, Texas on June 14. ( AP )

Juneteenth was first recognized by formerly enslaved African Americans in Texas in 1866, one year after 2,000 Union Army soldiers landed in Galveston with belated news of slaverys end.

Their announcement came more than two years after Abraham Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation address, which signaled the end of slavery during the bloody Civil War. But the order did not end the enslavement of all people in the nation at the time.

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which formally abolished slavery in the US, wasnt passed by Congress until January 31, 1865. Meanwhile, slave owners in Texas suppressed the news of freedom to the people they enslaved, withholding them in bondage.

Juneteenth celebrations grew across the US with memorials, parades, concerts, family gatherings and other events among Black communities, while Lee and other civil rights activists and lawmakers pushed federal and state governments to formally recognize the holiday.

The campaign continued to grow in the wake of international protests against police violence and systemic racism after the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

President Joe Biden signed a measure into law that creates Juneteenth as the nations 11th annual public holiday after a unanimous vote in the Senate and overwhelming bipartisan support in the House of Representatives.

On Juneteenth, may we celebrate the essence of freedom that galvanized the country, the progress we have made in our Nation, and all that is possible when we march forward together, the president wrote in a proclamation observing this years holiday. May we all recommit to redeeming the very soul of America  choosing love over hate, unity over division, and progress over retreat.
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Its the find of the millennium - well, two. It turned out to be much more. The vase dated back 2,000 years, and her

Anna Lee Dozier knack for second-hand shopping near her Washington, DC, home paid off big time. She was in a Maryland thrift store in 2019 and found a vase on the clearance rack for just $3.99.

I saw this vase, and I assumed it was like a tourist reproduction, Dozier told The Independent. It did look old, but I was thinking a 20- or 30-year-old tourist reproduction.

It turned out to be much more. The vase dates back two millennia. Her thrifty find was, in fact, priceless.

Anna Lee Dozier purchased a priceless ancient Mayan artifact, pictured, at a Maryland thrift store for less than $5. ( Anna Lee Dozier )

For five years after finding the vase on the clearance rack, Dozier kept the vase at home, she said, not thinking twice about it until she went on a trip Mexicos Museum of Anthropology in January. There, Dozier said she saw vases that reminded her of her thrift store find, so she asked the staff what to do if she might have an artifact.

The museum staff told her to contact the US embassy.

I came back to DC not thinking it could really be something, and I didn't want to bother the embassy, so I googled some professors who were experts on Mayan or Mexican history, she told The Independent. When no one responded, Dozier reached out to the embassy, where staff asked her to send detailed pictures of the vase.

A month later, Dozier learned it was a ceremonial urn from the Mayan community dating anywhere from the year 200 to 800.

After learning she had thrifted a priceless, ancient artifact, Dozier was connected with the Cultural Institute of Mexico, where a ceremony was held Monday for the vases return. It will now make its way to Mexicos Museum of Anthropology for analysis.

Dozier, who works as a human rights advocate for Mexicos Indigenous communities, said she was glad to be a part of the vases journey home.

Human rights extend to culture and history, Dozier said at the event on Monday.

Dozier isnt the first to accidentally stumble upon an ancient artifact.

In 2017, an Italian marble expert discovered a 2,000-year-old Roman mosaic was being used as a coffee table in a Manhattan apartment for the last 50 years.

The apartment owners thought nothing of it when they purchased the table from an Italian noble family in the 1960s, they said at the time. It has since been returned to the Italian government.
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An Oregon teachers union removed a Palestine teaching guide and toolkit from their website after community members criticized a coloring book that called Zionists bullies and workbooks calling for prayer.

The Portland Association of Teachers shared Palestine-centered teaching resources on their website earlier in the school year  but now the union says they have been removed after backlash.

Our Executive Board (E-Board) has heard member concerns about democratic processes and systems in our union, the newsletter read, per The Oregonian. PAT President Angela Bonilla also said the unions executive board will now update the guide.

One material that sparked concern included a book shared by the union with teachers, Handalas Return: A Childrens Story and Workbook, which contains the line: [A] group of bullies called Zionists wanted our land, so they stole it by force and hurt many people.

Two other activity packs listed in the toolkit call for students to engage in prayer, The Oregonian reports. One activity instructs students to write prayers, while another tells students to, Pray for [Palestinians] to be safe and pray for them to be happy.

The book Handalas Return, pictured, sparked criticism for containing a line calling Zionists bullies." ( Palestinian Feminist Collective )

The toolkit and lesson plans also provided teachers with additional resources, including videos for students by National Geographic and Crash Course  an educational YouTube channel  explaining the history of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland condemned the materials: This is an effort by the teachers union to promote what many feel is a biased and historically revisionist curriculum. The Jewish Federation of Greater Portland received numerous complaints from Jewish PPS teachers, parents, and even elected officials about the meeting and the materials.

The Portland chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace, which describes itself as the largest progressive Jewish anti-Zionist organization in the world, instead supported the union for sharing the resources.

The organization said the ongoing attempts by the Jewish Federation and other pro-Israel groups to slander and condemn these efforts as hurtful and antisemitic are shameful, Oregon Public Broadcasting reports.

Meanwhile, middle school teacher David Goldstein told The Oregonian he hopes the union apologizes for sharing the materials.

What Im upset about is the antisemitism and the intimidation and the unsafe environment theyve created for the Jewish community of Portland, Oregon  and how thats completely unacceptable, Goldstein told the outlet. I think they should apologize and explain how theyre going to prevent this from happening again. Thats a minimum.

Bonilla told Oregon Public Broadcasting these resources and lesson plans were not part of any official curriculum, and instead were curated by members who volunteer their time to provide materials for Heritage months/curricular materials for educators who are looking to integrate additional perspectives.

The controversy in Portland comes as the Israel-Hamas war stretches into its eighth month. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking more than 250 people hostage. Since then, Israeli attacks on Gaza have killed more than 37,000 people, many of whom were women and children.
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The editors of Wikipedia have concluded that the Anti-Defamation League, the premier Jewish civil rights organization in America, long a trusted outlet for research on hate and extremists of all kinds, is no longer generally reliable as a source of information about anti-semitism and the Israel-Palestine crisis.

The decision, which puts the organization on par with tabloids like the National Inquirer and right-wing outlets like Newsmax in the eyes of the online encyclopedia, is a major blow to the ADL, which has been advocating for civil rights for more than 100 years.

As The Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA) reports, debate about the ADL has been ongoing for months among the dedicated team of volunteer editors whose work is viewed in more than 15bn monthly visits from web users around the world.

ADL no longer appears to adhere to a serious, mainstream and intellectually cogent definition of antisemitism, but has instead given into the shameless politicization of the very subject that it was originally esteemed for being reliable on, an editor known as Iskandar323, who prompted the discussion about the ADL, wrote in a debate thread.

The editors pointed to a variety of factors behind their decision, mostly centered on how the ADL reckons with the concept of Zionism, the historical movement that advocated for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the area thats now the modern nation of Israel.

The ADL is frequently cited in news reports for its data showing rising antisemitism, though its methodology for measuring the threat inside the US has come under increasing scrutiny because of how it categorizes Zionism.

Since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, the ADL has counted demonstrations that feature anti-Zionist chants and slogans as antisemitic, even though these protests are frequently led or attended by progressive Jews themselves, many of whom are critical of Israel. The rule change echoes ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatts position that anti-Zionism is antisemitism, full stop, as he put it in a speech in 2022.

An analysis by Forward found that almost half of the more than 3,000 antisemitic incidents the ADL logged after October 7 were related to this definition.

More than just a dispute over data, though, the Wikipedia editors argued that ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt often acts as more of a partisan actor in the Israel-Palestine conversation than a neutral source of information.

Greenblatt has called US anti-Zionist student protesters Iranian proxies, compared the Palestinian keffiyeh scarf to a swastika, and praised Elon Musk just days after the Twitter owner endorsed an antisemitic conspiracy theory as the actual truth last November.

The Wikipedia editors also pointed to the ADLs use of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism as problematic. The IHRA definition is widely used, but its also come under criticism for provisions such as declaring that calling Israel a racist endeavor is inherently antisemitic.

A variety of human rights groups, from both in and outside of Israel, have concluded the country is maintaining a racist system of apartheid for the variety of ways in which Jews and Palestinians in land under Israeli control are systematically unequal in almost all areas of life.

In a statement to the JTA, the ADL said the Wikipedia decision was part of a campaign to delegitimize the ADL.

This is a sad development for research and education, but ADL will not be daunted in our age-old fight against antisemitism and all forms of hate, the statement said.

The Wikipedia row is a reminder of how constrained the debate around the Israel-Palestine crisis has been since October 7.

As The Independent reported in the aftermath of the Hamas attack, activists from a variety of different perspectives felt that they werent being heard, from Jews on campus who felt antisemitism was being ignored or downplayed, to Palestinian scholars and activists who felt silenced for voicing good-faith criticisms of Israel, to students who felt the national debate around the war had obscured the more nuanced reality of diverse viewpoints.

The campus climate is incredibly tense, said one campus activist at the University of Florida chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace. There are people here who are scared. Theres rising racism, Islamophobia, and antisemitism all across America right now.
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Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer slammed Republican Senators for blocking an attempt to bring legislation to ban bump stocks to the Senate floor after the Supreme Court overturned a Trump-era ban on the devices.

Senate Democrats had hoped to put legislation that would ban bump stocks  devices that can be attached to semi-automatic weapons that allow them to fire faster  to a vote on Tuesday.

The bill came after Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in a 6-3 ruling that under the Trump administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms had incorrectly acted under the Trump administration to ban bump stocks.

The Trump administration had taken action to ban bump stocks after a shooter fired 1,000 rounds into a crowd at a country music festival in Las Vegas, killing 58 people in 11 minutes.

In the wake of the shooting, some Republicans expressed openness to either voting to ban bump stocks or allowing the ATF to ban them. In the wake of the shooting, nine Republican senator sent a letter to the ATF asking it to review the sale of bump stocks.

In turn, Schumer charged Senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico to push for his legislation to ban bump stocks, which he called a matter of life and death.

In a floor speech, Schumer also cited previous remarks Senate Majority Whip John Thune, often thought to be a successor to Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina saying they would vote to get rid of bump stocks.

If banning bump stocks was good enough for Republicans in the past, it should be good enough for them today, he said. But if Republicans block this bill today, after claiming to support bump stock bans in years past, a ban even President Trump supported when he was president, shame on them. Theyd be siding with the gun lobby over families exasperated by gun violence.

But Republican Senator Pete Ricketts of Nebraska objected to a request by Heinrich for unanimous consent for the bill, saying that Schumer was showboating simply because the court ruled in a way that he did not like.

He claims this bill will ban bump stocks, but just like his previously misnamed bills, if you actually read the bill, that's not what it does at all, Ricketts said in a floor speech.

Ricketts also charged that the legislation would also ban devices beyond bump stocks, which Heinrich refuted.

It would however, ban bump stocks and it would ban things like block switches, which also let semi automatic firearms act as fully automatic firearms, he said. I think the American people understand what common sense gun safety looks like.

Even if the legislation would have passed the House of Representatives, the legislation would likely have faced major hurdles in the House, given that Republicans have the majority in the lower chamber.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has condemned the arbitrary arrests and attacks on journalists covering Tuesday's protests in Nairobi's Central Business District by security agents.

The attacks occurred during protests staged against the Finance Bill 2024 that seeks to raise the cost of living through heavy taxes.

Expressing dismay over the incidents, the Council said that while journalists relied on police for security in the line of duty, the security officers resorted to manhandling, harassing, arresting, and assaulting them.

MCK CEO David Omwoyo stated that journalists were detained and arrested despite being clearly identified with MCK press badges and press jackets.

Among those targeted were Joe Muhia and Iddi Ali Juma of the Associated Press (AP), who were arrested and later released after being assaulted.

"In an incident captured on video, Standard Group video editor Justice Mwangi Macharia was arrested and violently hauled out of a moving police motor vehicle, sustaining physical injuries," Omwoyo said.

He added that Nation Media Group's Taifa Leo reporter Sammy Kimatu was also thrown out of a moving police Land Rover, sustaining injuries and is currently receiving treatment. Additionally, Maureen Mureithi (NTV) has been hospitalized after police aimed a canister at her while she covered the protests.

The MCK CEO argued that Tuesday's events indicate that members of the National Police Service remain the weak link in Kenya's quest for freedom of expression and freedom of the media as espoused in the Constitution.

He called on Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome to rein in his officers, ensuring that journalists are protected and not targeted for harassment while performing their duties in any working environment.
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Former President Donald Trump tired to walk back claims he thinks Milwaukee is a horrible city - even as he took a shot at the areas crime rate as he spoke in Racine about 30 miles south of the Wisconsin city.

Trump held a rally in Racine, Wisconsin, Tuesday and immediately turned his attention to the crime rate in Milwaukee as he responded to the assertion that he didnt back the choice of the city as the site for the Republican National Convention set for mid-July.

I love Milwaukee. I was the one that picked Milwaukee I have to tell you, Trump said on Tuesday afternoon. These lying people that they say oh he doesnt like Milwaukee  I love Milwaukee.

I said you got to fix the crime, he added. Youve got to make sure the elections are honest, but Im the one that picked Milwaukee.

Trumps comments come after he reportedly called Wisconsins biggest population center a horrible city during a meeting with House Republicans on Capitol Hill last week, initially reported by Punchbowl.

Republicans have tried to downplay his comments, as did Trump himself on Tuesday, seemingly worried about the impact of his words about the city.

Trump also addressed the horrible city reports on Truth Social: The Democrats are making up stories that I said Milwaukee is a horrible city. This is false, a complete lie.

He added: Its called disinformation, and thats all they know how to do. I picked Milwaukee, I know it well. It should therefore lead to my winning Wisconsin. But the Dems come out with this fake story, just like all of the others. It never ends. Dont be duped. Who would say such a thing with that important state in the balance?

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump leaves a rally at Festival Park on June 18, 2024 in Racine, Wisconsin. During the event he said he loves Milwaukee after previousl bashing the city. ( Getty Images )

But in an interview with Fox 6 News, Trump appeared to admit making the statement.

I think it was very clear what I meant. Were very concerned with crime. I love Milwaukee, he told the TV station. But as you know the crime numbers are terrible, and we have to be very careful. But, I was referring to, also, the election.

Biden won Wisconsin by about 21,000 votes in 2020 after Trump won the state by a slightly larger margin in 2016. Its a vital swing state both the Democrats and Republicans will be desperate to win in November.

Trump leads in Wisconsin by 0.2 percent in Wisconsin in FiveThirtyEights polling average, 41.4 percent to Bidens 41.2 percent. Independent Robert F Kennedy Jr receives 8.2 percent in the state.

The former president didnt intend to stay in Wisconsin during the convention until news outlets inquired with the campaign. Initially, Trump was planning on staying in his own hotel in Chicago, 90 miles away, according to The New York Times. Trump now avoids a possible slight to the city he called horrible last week.

On Tuesday, Trump also claimed he saved Kenosha, a community south of Racine that saw widespread racial justice protests during his presidency. It was the site of a shooting by then-17-year-old Kyle Rittenhouse, who fatally shot two men. He faced multiple charges, including homicide, but was acquitted after claiming self-defense. He has since become a right-wing media personality.
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A witness has told the House Ethics Committee that Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz paid her for sex, a report alleges.

Investigators with the committee have conducted a number of interviews behind closed doors with women who were witnesses in the sex trafficking investigation conducted by the Department of Justice, according to ABC News.

The investigators have spoken to at least half a dozen women who are alleged to have attended parties also frequented by Gaetz. The women  some under subpoena  were reportedly paid by Joel Greenberg, who used to be Gaetzs close friend. In 2022, Greenberg was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to several charges that included sex trafficking a minor and introducing the minor to other men, the outlet reported.

Sources told ABC that during the interviews, some witnesses were shown Venmo payments that they are alleged to have received from Gaetz and asked if they were for sex.

A woman told the panel that a payment from Gaetz was for sex, and others said they were paid to go to parties also attended by Gaetz that included drugs and sex, according to the sources.

Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz speaks at The Peoples Convention, on June 15. A witness has told a House committee that Gaetz paid her for sex, according to a report. ( EPA )

Gaetz has rejected all the allegations against him.

When reached for comment, a spokesperson for Gaetz referred to the congressmans Monday post on X, in which he slammed the committees investigation and put the blame on former speaker Kevin McCarthy, with whom he has long had a personal feud. Gaetz led the effort to oust McCarthy last year.

The House Ethics Committee has closed four probes into me, which emerged from lies intended solely to smear me, Gaetz wrote on Monday. Instead of working with me to ban Congressional stock trading, the Ethics Committee is now opening new frivolous investigations.

He added: They are doing this to avoid the obvious fact that every investigation into me ends the same way: my exoneration.

This is Soviet. Kevin McCarthy showed them the man, and they are now trying to find the crime, he continued. I work for Northwest Floridians who wont be swayed by this nonsense and McCarthy and his goons know it.

After an investigation that lasted years, the Department of Justice said last year that it would not bring charges against Gaetz. The House Ethics Committee has subpoenaed the department for information connected to its investigation into Gaetz but the DOJ has been reluctant to hand over its records, ABC reported.

The committee said on Tuesday that its looking into whether Gaetz tried to obstruct investigations, and also noted its dropping some parts of its investigation into him.

The panel said Gaetz has been the subject of an unusual amount of public reporting. It added that much of that reporting has been inaccurate.

Gaetz has rejected all the allegations against him even as the House Ethics Committee continues to investigate. He is seen here speaking outside Donald Trumps trial in Manhattan. ( Getty Images )

Notwithstanding the difficulty in obtaining relevant information from Representative Gaetz and others, the Committee has spoken with more than a dozen witnesses, issued 25 subpoenas, and reviewed thousands of pages of documents in this matter, the panel said. Based on its review to date, the Committee has determined that certain of the allegations merit continued review.

During the course of its investigation, the Committee has also identified additional allegations that merit review, it added.

The panel said it would continue to look into allegations that Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use.

The committee said it wouldnt continue to review claims that Gaetz may have shared inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, misused state identification records, converted campaign funds to personal use, and/or accepted a bribe or improper gratuity.
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Nancy Pelosi met with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in India on Wednesday in a move that is expected to anger China.

The former speaker, along with a bipartisan delegation of seven lawmakers, traveled on Tuesday to Dharamshala, a Himalayan town in northern India where the Dalai Lama, 88, has lived in exile since fleeing China in 1959 after a failed Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule, to meet with the spiritual leader.

The meeting came as Joe Biden prepares to sign a bill pressuring Beijing to resolve tensions with Tibet and protect the regions native Buddhist culture.

This bill says to the Chinese government: things have changed now, get ready for that, Pelosi said.

It is still my hope that one day the Dalai Lama and his people will return to Tibet in peace, Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, who led the delegation, added after the meeting.

The bill, passed by Congress last week, presses Beijing to resume negotiations with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders that have been frozen since 2010, and to address Tibetan peoples concerns about their cultural, religious and linguistic autonomy.

Nancy Pelosi meets with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in India ( Dalai Lama/ Instagram )

China governs most of Tibet, which it claims has been part of the country since ancient times. Although the US recognizes Tibet as part of China, the Dalai Lama had met with every US president up until Donald Trump. Joe Biden has not met with the Dalai Lama.

During the meeting, lawmakers presented the spiritual leader with a framed copy of the Resolve Tibet Act which condemns all oppression and coercion of Tibetans and affirms their right to self determination.

Wednesdays meeting came at a time when the US is trying to improve its relations with China following the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the move will anger China, which sees the Dalai Lama as an anti-China separatist  an accusation he denies. China also opposes any contact with the 1989 Nobel Peace laureate by foreign officials.

A group of seven bipartisan US lawmakers made the trip ( AP )

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Tuesday that affairs related to Tibet were an internal Chinese matter and that China would take resolute measures to defend its sovereignty, security and development interests.

The ministry also urged the US not to sign the bill into law. We urge the US side to adhere to its commitments of recognizing Tibet as part of China and not supporting Tibet independence, spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular news briefing in Beijing. The US must not sign the bill into law.

Washingtons relations with Beijing first began to deteriorate when then-president Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods.

Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in 2022, prompting China to encircle the island with live-fire military drills after she left. Taiwan, a democracy with more than 20 million inhabitants, has been independent since the end of the Chinese civil war in 1949 but is claimed by the Peoples Republic of China.

Since coming to power, Joe Biden has taken a more cautious approach to US-Chinese relations, making efforts to improve relations with Beijing.

Meanwhile, Beijing has repeatedly asked the US not to interfere with Tibetan affairs and argues that the people of Tibet have enjoyed social stability and economic growth under its rule.

The Dalai Lama is expected to travel to the United States on Thursday for medical treatment for his knees, but it is unclear if he will meet any officials while there.
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The White House canceled a meeting with Israel on Iran after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the US of withholding weapons as the war in Gaza rages on, according to a report.

Netanyahu released a video on Tuesday, claiming he had told Secretary of State Antony Blinken that it was inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel.

President Joe Bidens top advisers were angered by Netanyahus public statement  prompting them to make a public statement of their own by canceling the US-Israel meeting, which had been slated for Thursday, Axios reported.

This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts, a US official told the outlet. Another said the meeting was merely postponed, not scrapped altogether.

The Independent has reached out to the White House for comment.

The US canceled a meeting with Israel after the countrys leader slammed the Biden administration, accusing it of withholding weapons. Pictured: Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with Israel Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this month ( EPA )

Meanwhile, a senior Israeli official told Axios: The Americans are fuming. Bibis video made a lot of damage.

The White Houses decision to call off the meeting sends a strong message to Israel, which since October 7, has steadily received of US military aid worth billions of dollars.

After the videos release, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre rejected Netanyahus accusation: We genuinely do not know what he is talking about.

She called the Israeli leaders claim categorically false, clarifying that only one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs has been withheld amid Israels ground offensive in Rafah to convey the Biden administrations push for the country to take further steps to mitigate civilian casualties.

At a press conference, Blinken addressed the pause in the one shipment: We continue to review one shipment that President Biden talked about regarding 2,000-pound bombs because of our concern about their use in densely populated areas like Rafah. That remains under review.

But everything else is moving as it normally would move to make sure Israel has what it needs to defend itself against a multiplicity of threats, Blinken said.
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A secret recording has revealed the plan of Trump political consultant Roger Stone to help the former president challenge the 2024 election results.

Liberal journalist Lauren Windsor provided Rolling Stone magazine with a recording in which the self-described dirty trickster says Donald Trump and his allies are on an offensive footing and that theyre better prepared than they were during 2020.

At least this time when they do it, you have a lawyer and a judge  his home phone number standing by  so you can stop it, Stone says on the recording. We made no preparations last time, none  There are technical, legal steps that we have to take to try and have a more honest election. Were not there yet, but theres things that can be done.

The recording includes conversations between Stone and Windsor as well as ones between Stone and Windsors colleague Ally Sammarco. The audio was recorded at a Catholic Prayer for Trump event on March 19 at Mar-a-Lago.

On the recording, Stone appears optimistic about Trumps electoral chances as well as about the former presidents deepening legal woes, suggesting that Florida Judge Aileen Cannon is about the dismiss the case brought by the Department of Justice regarding Trumps alleged mishandling of classified documents.

We are beating them, Stone says on the audio, before he goes on to say that Trumps trial in Georgia is falling apart. I think the judge is on the verge of dismissing the charges against him in Florida. Theyre delayed in New York City and theyre now delayed in Washington.

Political consultant Roger Stone speaks at The Peoples Convention, a gathering of prominent conservatives organized by the political group Turning Point Action, in Detroit. A new secert recording reveals his plan to help Trump challenge the 2024 election. ( EPA )

Trump has since been convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to corruptly subvert the outcome of the 2016 election. Trump directed a hush money payment to be made to adult actor Stormy Daniels to keep her quiet about an alleged 2006 affair in lead up to the election and in the aftermath of the release of the Access Hollywood tape on which he bragged about sexually assaulting women.

While Judge Cannon has made rulings beneficial to Trump in the classified documents case, she rejected an effort to have it dismissed last week.

At one point during the recording, Sammarco asks Stone what will stop Trumps opponents from committing voter fraud such as via ballot harvesting. Stone says, In some states, itll be easier to stop. In other places, it wont.

He adds that they should be suing in half a dozen places.

Were finally now on an offensive footing, he says, before going on to note that now that the Republican National Committee is in the hands of Trump allies, they can spend more money on monitoring elections.

Stone also mentions changes in state law, real-time voter list monitoring, going to court as we just did to challenge some of the vote laws.

The longtime Republican strategist tells Windsor that the election can be stolen again. He argues that Trumps legal problems are a way to suck up his money, suck up his time, and create the reason why their theft is plausible, believable.

He also shared his worries that overconfidence among Trump supporters could decrease voter turnout, adding that Trump allies are prepared to use lawyers, judges, technology, to take aim at the election results.

Stone told the magazine on Tuesday that All of the election integrity provisions that I suggested are perfectly legal and should be part of any ballot Security effort.

The consultant played a key role in the efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his attempts to affect election outcomes go all the way back to the 2000 election when he was one of the leaders of the so-called Brooks Brothers Riot which helped stop the Florida recount with the aim of making sure President George W Bush would eke out a win.

Stone blasted the recording and threatened legal action against Windsor in social media posts on Tuesday, writing on Facebook that Recording people without their knowledge and consent in Florida is a crime even when what the person says is innocuous.

He also repeatedly referred to the recording and the stories surrounding it as a nothingburger.

I will sue Lauren and appeal as many times as may be necessary, he wrote on X.
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Donald Trump has rejected claims that he delivered a meandering address to a gathering of top CEOs in Washington DC last week, citing a more supportive account of his speech on Truth Social that quotes an attendee branding the criticism a bunch of BS.

The GOP presidential candidate spoke to the Business Roundtable event on Thursday, the same day he met with congressional Republicans in private on Capitol Hill to rally the troops ahead of Novembers election.

Discussing his appearance afterwards, New York Times columnist Andrew Ross Sorkin said on the CNBC show Squawk Box: I spoke to a number of CEOs who I would say walked into the meeting being Trump supporter-ish, or thinking that they might be leaning that direction, who said that he was remarkably meandering, could not keep a straight thought, was all over the map, and that they  which, may be not surprising  but was interesting to me because these were people who, I think, might have been actually predisposed to him and actually walked out of the room less predisposed to him, actually predisposed to thinking... This is not necessarily, as one person said, this may not be any different or better than a Biden thought, if youre thinking that way.

A clip of Sorkin offering that insight was subsequently recirculated by the official Biden-Harris HQ account on X on Friday but the right-leaning Daily Signal has since published a story questioning his assessment, which was approvingly quoted by Trump in the post on his own platform.

There was never a moment of meandering, the anonymous attendee quoted by the Signal said. He was focused. In fact, he received a loud ovation at the end.

There was not one CEO who wasnt impressed with what they heard from Trump. Everybody was clapping.

Earlier on Tuesday, Trump posted an excerpt from The Wall Street Journal on Truth Social alleging that President Joe Biden planned to raise corporation tax from 21 per cent to 28 per cent.

He commented: Business Executives and Shareholder Representatives should be 100% behind Donald Trump! Anybody thats not should be FIRED for incompetence!

Former US president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump returns to Wasington DC on Thursday June 13 2024 ( EPA )

The former president is currently working hard to broaden his appeal to business leaders and met with Silicon Valley investors in San Francisco earlier this month, coming away with a huge $12m donation haul from a single event and thereafter preaching the gospel of cryptocurrency, doing so most recently at his latest campaign rally in Racine, Wisconsin, on Tuesday evening.

As he strives to make the case for a second term in the White House, Trump has also repeatedly made the argument that Biden is too old and cognitively impaired to be commander-in-chief at 81, drawing attention to every supposed gaffe or stiff movement the president makes.

However, the Republican turned 78 himself on Friday and continues to make high-profile mistakes of his own in his public addresses, most recently misremembering the name of his former doctor and referring to Biden as Joe Bride during a garbled portion of his speech in Racine, hence his hurry to shoot down any portrayal of his style as meandering.
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Donald Trump says he was always planning on staying in Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention despite reports he eyed a Chicago hotel 95 miles away.

In a local television interview, Trump said he never wavered on plans to stay in the RNC host city for the July event. He made his comments as he prepared to take the stage in Racine, Wisconsin, on Tuesday for his first visit to the state after he reportedly called Milwaukee a horrible city. On stage, Trump declared he loves Milwaukee, as reports began to emerge he planned to stay in Chicago during the convention.

ABC7 Chicago and The New York Times both reported Trump planned to undertake the commute from the Windy City to the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee rather than stay nearby. The presumed Republican presidential nominee owns the Trump International Hotel in downtown Chicago.

Three separate sources spoke to ABC7 about the plans for the 2024 convention, including a high-ranking law enforcement officer, but the Trump campaign denied the report.

Karoline Leavitt, national press secretary for the campaign, told the network: The president is planning to stay in Milwaukee for the Convention.

Three people briefed on Trumps travel logistics around the July convention dates also told the Times the same story.

When reporters from both the paper and ABC began asking questions on Tuesday, those plans changed two of the people said.

Supporters of former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump cheer as he arrives to speak at a campaign event in Racine, Wisconsin. He is now saying that he always planned to stay in Wisconsin during the Republican National Convention and downplayed reports he was looking at a Chicago hotel during the event. ( AP )

Mr Trump now intends to stay in Milwaukee, two of the people briefed on his logistics said, reported the Times. The change avoids a perceived slight to the largest city in Wisconsin, a vital battleground state.

When Trump spoke in front of an enthusiastic crowd on Tuesday in Racine  which sits on Lake Michigan between the two cities  referring to the partys decision to hold the convention there, he said: I love Milwaukee. I was the one that picked Milwaukee I have to tell you.

These lying people that they say oh he doesnt like Milwaukee  I love Milwaukee, Trump reiterated.

I said you got to fix the crime, he added. Youve got to make sure the elections are honest, but Im the one that picked Milwaukee.

While the campaign likely hoped that this would draw a line under the unforced error, even that statement received pushback.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson told CNNs Abby Phillip on Tuesday night that the claim was false, and it was the RNC, not Trump, who chose the city as the site of the convention.

Im a Democrat and the mayor of the largest city in the state and were proud to host the Republican National Convention. We worked really, really hard to get the convention though. Folks in the RNC have been great, said Johnson.

Right before I was initially elected mayor, I took time off the campaign trail to go to Washington, DC to go to the RNC headquarters to do the final pitch  it was the RNC that selected Milwaukee. I think I would I would remember if Donald Trump had anything to do with that he was nowhere to be found. That is a complete fabrication. I am stunned by that.

Asked about the reports that Trump had planned to stay in Chicago, Johnson said: You would imagine that the nominee would stay in the city especially, as he claims it  that he chose Milwaukee.

He continued: But if he thinks that Milwaukee is a horrible place, okay, thats one thing. And he was going to stay in Chicago. But what about even  the counties around Milwaukee, the reddest parts of the state that produce the most Republican votes, he wasnt even willing to stay in those places, opting instead to go across the state line, go and stay in Chicago, and then come up to receive the nomination like that. That just goes to show you that he doesnt care about Milwaukee, much less the entire state of Wisconsin.
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A Virginia primary congressional race between a right-wing firebrand incumbent and a challenger endorsed by Donald Trump remained too close to call on Wednesday morning  but that didnt stop the former presidents candidate of choice from prematurely declaring victory.

John McGuire, a Virginia state senator, was endorsed by Trump after Representative Bob Good, a two-term incumbent who serves as chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, came out in support of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for the Republican nomination for president. As of Wednesday morning, only 315 votes stood between Good and McGuire in Virginias 5th congressional district.

Nonetheless, McGuire declared victory Tuesday evening.

Thank you to my family, thank you to everyone who helped out on this campaign, thank you to the people who endorsed and supported me, and thank you to Donald J. Trump for believing in me, McGuire posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. There are still a few votes left to count, but its clear that all paths end with a victory.

Meanwhile, Good applauded his campaign for the close race despite a lack of support from Trump and the Republican establishment.

The entire DC Swamp was aligned against us with over $10 million in attack ads, but with your help we were able to make this race too close to call, he said. No matter the outcome, youve shown the DC Swamp that you wont back down from standing for whats right. Keep the faith and dont stop fighting now.

Good has become an outspoken right-wing figure since he joined the House of Representatives in 2021. He vocally opposed Kevin McCarthys bid to become speaker of the House in January of last year. When Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida filed his motion to remove McCarthy, Good joined Democrats and seven Republicans in supporting it.

Representative Bob Good (pictured) endorsed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for the Republican nomination for president . ( Getty Images )

During the fight to replace replace McCarthy, Good was one of a handful of hardliners who opposed electing House Majority Leader Steve Scalise as speaker. He later threw his weight behind Mike Johnson, as did the rest of the House Republican conference.

McCarthy and a prominent political action committee ultimately poured money into an effort to oppose Goods bid. Trump endorsed McGuire despite the fact that Good traveled to New York in May to support the former president in his hush money trial. McGuire also made the trip.

John is running against Bob Good, who is not good. Despite his name, hes very bad for Virginia, Trump told supporters on Monday.

Good enjoyed the support of Gaetz, as well as former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows and Representative Chip Roy of Texas. Meanwhile, Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has been kicked out of the Freedom Caucus, backed McGuire.

Virginias 5th district, which includes Charlottesville and the University of Virginia as well as nearby suburbs and rural areas. has seen frequent turnover. Indeed, Good defeated incumbent Republican Denver Riggleman in 2020 largely in response to Riggleman presiding over a same-sex wedding.
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A wannabe venture capitalist who made a bogus offer to buy Richard Bransons satellite company is being sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Matthew Brown, from Dallas-Fort Worth, owner of investment managing firm Matthew Brown Companies LLC, submitted a fake picture of a bank account in March 2023 that said he had $182 million while trying to purchase Virgin Orbit, a now-defunct company that launched small satellites into orbit, according to the SEC lawsuit.

In reality, his account had a balance of less than $1, prosecutors say.

The lawsuit says Brown sent an unsolicited LinkedIn message to Virgin Orbit CEO Dan Hart in March 2023 claiming he could write the $200m purchase.

That same day, the lawsuit says Brown sent another LinkedIn message to Virgin Orbits Vice President of Investor Relations, who he later emailed the apparent fraudulent bank account screenshot.

The potential deal was leaked to the media and caused Virgin Orbit stock rise by 33.1 percent, the SEC says. Soon afterward, Brown was invited on the business network CNBC to discuss the deal.

The network described him as an outside adviser to President Joe Bidens administration on energy and defense.

Brown claimed that he had previously invested hundreds of millions of dollars of his personal capital, primarily in space companies, the civil lawsuit, filed Monday, reads.

Matthew Brown, pictured in 2023 while speaking on CNBC, has been sued by the SEC for making a bogus offer to by Richard Bransons Virgin Orbit ( CNBC )

While on CNBC, Brown falsely portrayed himself as an experienced venture capitalist with investments in over 13 space companies and made false and misleading statements and omissions to the investing public concerning the legitimacy of his bogus $200 million offer, the SEC suit reads.

Brown then attempted to convince Virgin Orbit to commit to a break-up fee should the deal not close, which the company did not agree to. Ultimately, no movement was ever made on the deal, the suit states.

The SEC is demanding the case be taken to a civil trial by jury.

Virgin Orbit, founded in 2017, permanently ceased operations in May 2023 after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Afterward, they sold all assets to four winning bidders.

Richard Branson, pictured, is the CEO of Virgin Group, which controls more than 400 companies. His satellite company Virgin Orbit filed for bankruptcy and ceased operations last year. ( AFP via Getty Images )

Branson, billionaire founder of the satellite firm, is also co-founder of the Virgin Group, which controls more than 400 companies including Virgin Records and Virgin Atlantic.

According to his LinkedIn, Brown is a shareholder and senior advisor for Partager, an aerospace venture capital firm. He is also listed as General Partner, Senior Executive Partner for Energent, LP, a climate-focused investment management company.

In a statement on behalf of Brown and his company, a spokesperson told The Independent the SEC lawsuit is filled with egregious errors, fabrications...and biased allegations that undeniably favor the culprit, Virgin Orbits Management.

In 2023, we were approached by a representative of Virgin Orbit to invest. We engaged in commercial conversations, and during our evaluations, a non-binding letter of intent was produced by Virgin Orbit. However, during our due diligence, we decided not to invest.

The spokesperson added that Brown and his company will not settle until we are vindicated by the rule of law.
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A Second World War veteran finally got the chance to walk across the stage for his high school diploma this month - 81 years after he was drafted and forced to miss his own graduation.

Harlan Olson, aged 101, walked across the stage in his cap and gown earlier this month. He was escorted by Grace Nonnemacher, a senior at Denfeld High School in Duluth, Minnesota, the same school that the veteran graduated from in 1943.

Olson was drafted into the US Infantry Division aged 19 during his graduating year, before he got a chance to receive his diploma. His father had to pick up the diploma from the high school. Olsons family brought his original diploma to the school on June 6 so it could be handed back to him by the principal. The mans sons, wife and members of his extended family attended the ceremony.

Harlan Olson, 101, accepts his diploma at Denfeld High School this month alongside senior Grace Nonnemacher ( Duluth Public Schools )

Olson served for three years fighting on the front lines in Germany, Northern News Now reported.

His story came to light after Nonnemacher suggested that he join her graduating class as they received their diplomas.

The two have known each other since she was six years old, when her family joined the church he attends.

One day over coffee, the veteran told her the story of how he missed his own special day. Nonnemachers father, Dave Nonnemacher, told KARE 11 he believed that that man needs to walk across the stage and get his diploma handed to him.

His daughter thought the idea was really cool and Denfeld Highs principal agreed. My reaction was, we will find a way to make that happen, Tom Tusken said.

Harlan Olson, 101, walks across the stage at Denfeld High School with senior Grace Nonnemacher ( Duluth Public Schools )

Olson said that he first thought holy sh*t when presented with the plan but said hed do it as long as the younger Nonnemacher escorted him across the stage. As Olson walked across the stage using his walker, the auditorium erupted into a sustained standing ovation.

Harlan, on behalf of Duluth Public Schools and Denfeld High School, congratulations, Tusken said, handing the veteran his diploma back.

Thank you very much, Olson replied. The rest of the graduating class then followed suit.

After Nonnemacher got her diploma, she hugged Olson, and said: Im so proud of you.

When asked by reporters how he planned to celebrate the occasion, he jokingly said he would go to bed.
Azimio leaders have vowed to reject the Finance Bill 2024, terming it economically oppressive on Kenyans.

The National Assembly Finance Committee has confirmed that the adjustments to the Finance Bill 2024, expected to raise Sh320 billion in revenue, have not compromised budget financing.

Committee Chair Kimani Kuria revealed key amendments designed to bridge the deficit, including reductions in tax expenditures, a 1% increase in the railway development levy, and an increase in the import declaration form fee from 2% to 3%.

"On quantum, we have looked at other ways, such as assessing how much we are losing in terms of our tax expenditures. We have proposed marginal increases in some tax areas to bridge the resource gap," Kuria explained.

Kuria emphasized that the Finance Bill 2024 aims to protect Kenyans' livelihoods and address the high cost of living.

He noted that the Eco levy on imported goods is intended to discourage large-scale imports, thereby boosting local manufacturing and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The proposed law targets a variety of items, including diapers, rubber tyres (for wheelbarrows and wheelchairs), batteries, pencil sharpeners, staplers, printers, calculators, photocopying machines, coin counters, and wrapping machines.

"We are transforming the Finance Bill from a revenue-raising measure to a policy-oriented bill addressing issues such as the cost of living and protecting those at the bottom of the economic pyramid," the Molo MP stated.

The National Environment Management Authority has projected that the eco-levy will generate Sh54 billion.

The bill also introduces excise duties on imported table eggs, onions, and potatoes to protect local farmers.

The Finance Bill report was presented to the National Assembly this afternoon, with debates scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, and a vote planned for June 25th.

The Opposition Coalition, Azimio La Umoja, has vowed to challenge the provisions of the Finance Bill 2024, which underpins the Sh3.9 trillion budget for the upcoming 2024/2025 financial year.

Azimio La Umoja argues that the eco-levy will increase the prices of essential commodities like bread and cooking oil, adversely affecting Kenyans.

Proposals on Finance Bill

President William Ruto has assured that the changes to the Finance Bill reflect the views of the public and other stakeholders gathered during public participation sessions. He commended Kenyans for their contributions.

"We will end up with a product in Parliament that originated from the Executive and has been thoroughly examined by the Legislature. Through public participation, the people of Kenya have had a say," he said.

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Significant amendments to the Finance Bill include the removal of the proposed 16% VAT on bread, transportation of sugar, financial services, and foreign exchange transactions, as well as the 2.5% Motor Vehicle Tax.

There will be no increase in mobile money transfer fees, and the excise duty on vegetable oil has been eliminated.

Levies on the Housing Fund and the proposed Social Health Insurance will not attract income tax, thereby benefiting employees financially.

The VAT registration threshold has been increased from KSh5 million to KSh8 million, exempting many small businesses from VAT registration.

The Kenya Revenue Authority's electronic invoicing (ETIMS) requirement has been lifted for farmers and small businesses with a turnover below KSh1 million.

Additionally, the excise duty on alcoholic beverages will now be based on alcohol content rather than volume.
 Close Greece shuts Acropolis, schools as it braces for 43C heatwave

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The Greek authorities are investigating whether wildfires that threatened to engulf Athens were sparked by a single arsonist.

Civil protection minister Vassilis Kikilias said officials verified indications that the fire near Athens was the result of arson as well as extreme weather conditions.

A fire service spokesman has said the force is struggling to deal with the spate of blazes, adding: Almost every 10 minutes a new fire breaks out.

In Koropi, a storage facility and at least one home were burned, and flames crept into a boat dry dock and across fields of dry grass and olive trees. Authorities evacuated two nearby villages.

Amid the heatwave, several foreign tourists have died or gone missing while hiking in high temperatures. The girlfriend of a missing American tourist has criticised Greek authorities for allegedly doing little to help search for him.

Albert Calibet, 59, has been missing since last Tuesday while hiking on the island of Amorgos.

At least five tourists have been found dead on the Greek Islands in recent weeks.

Have you been affected by this? Email barney.davis.ind@independent.co.uk
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A 73-year-old French woman missing on the Greek island of Sikinos since Friday sent a distress message to her hotel before disappearing, the owner of the hotel claimed on Tuesday.

A search is under way for the woman, who has not been named by authorities. She is one of three tourists missing in Greece, and five have died this month in unseasonably hot weather.

Ilias Gavanas, who owns the guest house where the woman was staying, said he last heard from her on Friday when he reached her by phone around 8:30 a.m. after missing a call from her at 5:50 a.m.

Medical staff in a dinghy leaves from the Aegean Sea island of Milos to Sikinos island, Greece ( Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

He said the woman had sent him a selfie and a message saying: I am fall. He replied in French and English asking for her location and telling her to call the European emergency number 112, and alerted police and municipal authorities.

Temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) across Greece earlier this month.

Hiking is popular with tourists on Sikinos, a largely barren and sparsely populated island in the southern Aegean Sea, Gavanas said.

We warn them not to go out in the heat, to always inform us where they are, to not wander off alone, he said. It was 40 degrees.

A person walks at the village of Rovinia on the island of Corfu ( REUTERS )

The tourism ministry said it remained vigilant and was working with other ministries to ensure travellers were being kept informed.

A second French woman is missing on Sikinos, and authorities believe the two missing women went hiking together although they were not staying at the same hotel, police said.

A search is under way on the island of Amorgos for an American man missing since June 11.

The five tourists who have died included British TV presenter Michael Mosley, whose body was found on the island of Symi.

A 55-year-old American died on the Ionian island of Mathraki, a 74-year-old Dutch tourist died on the island of Samos and two hikers died on Crete.

In addition to record temperatures, Greece is expected to see record levels of tourism this year.

Overtourism is an issue in Greece, as it is in other holiday hotspots across Europe. The ombudsman report said that Santorini  a small island in the Aegean Sea with 15,550 residents  receives more than 5.5 million visitors annually, twice the number it hosted in 2012.

In Santorini, even tourists complain about the great number of tourists, it added.

On Friday, prime minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said in an interview with Bloomberg that the government is also considering imposing a cap on the number of cruise ships visiting the most popular tourist islands.
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Lebanons Hezbollah has new weapons and intelligence capabilities that could help it target more critical positions deeper inside Israel in case of an all-out war, the militant group's leader warned on Wednesday.

Hassan Nasrallahs comments came as the monthslong cross-border conflict simmering between Hezbollah and Israel appears to be reaching a boiling point and a day after a top U.S. envoy met Lebanese officials in his latest attempt to ease tensions.

"We now have new weapons. But I wont say what they are," he said in a televised address commemorating a top Hezbollah commander killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon last week. When the decision is made, they will be seen on the front lines.

Hezbollah has used locally made explosive drones for the first time since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza last Octobe r, as well as surface-to-air missiles against Israeli jets.

Nasrallah said in 2021 that Hezbollah has 100,000 fighters but now he claimed the number is much higher, without elaborating. He also said he has rejected offers from allied countries and militias in the region that could add tens of thousands to his ranks.

A nearly 10-minute-long video allegedly filmed by a Hezbollah surveillance drone and released Tuesday shows parts of Haifa  a city far from the Israel-Lebanon border. Nasrallah in his speech Wednesday said Hezbollah has much more footage  an apparent threat it could reach sites deep in Israel.

Israels military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, visited Israeli air-defense soldiers near the border with Lebanon on Wednesday, saying Israel was aware of Hezbollah's capabilities demonstrated in the video and has solutions for these threats.

The enemy only knows a small part of our capabilities and will see them at the needed time, he said.

Hezbollah, an ally of the Palestinian militant group Hamas, has been exchanging strikes with Israel almost daily since the war in Gaza erupted on Oct. 7, with the aim to pull Israeli forces away from the embattled Gaza Strip.

Hezbollah's attacks escalated after Israel expanded its offensive last month into the southern Gaza city of Rafah and spiked further last week after an Israeli strike killed high-ranking Hezbollah commander Taleb Sami Abdullah, the most senior militant killed so far during the Israel-Hamas war.

Also Tuesday, the Israeli army said it has approved and validated plans for an offensive in Lebanon, although the decision to actually launch such an operation would have to come from the country's political leadership.

The warnings by both sides followed a visit by President Joe Biden's senior adviser Amos Hochstein, who this week met with officials in Lebanon and Israel in his latest attempt to deescalate tensions. he situation. Hochstein told reporters in Berlin on Tuesday that it was a very serious situation and that a diplomatic solution to prevent a larger war was urgent.

Nasrallah said a wider war with Lebanon would have regional implications and that Hezbollah would attack any other country in the region backing Israel, citing Cyprus, which has hosted Israeli forces for training exercises.

Only a cease-fire in Gaza would halt the Lebanon-Israel border fighting or the attacks on Western and Israel-linked targets from Yemen's Houthi rebels and Iraqi militias allied with Hezbollah.

Israel views Hezbollah as its most direct threat, and the two fought a 34-day war in 2006 that ended in a stalemate. Hebollah's military capabilities have significantly grown since then, and the United States and Israel estimate the group, along with other Lebanese militant factions, has about 150,000 missiles and rockets. Hezbollah also has been working on precision-guided missiles.

Hezbollah said at least four of its fighters were killed in Israeli strikes on Wednesday as Hochstein returned to Israel for a new round of meetings there.

Lebanese state media reported the strikes along the border and near the coastal city of Tyre, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) away. The Israeli military said two Hezbollah launches damaged several vehicles in northern Israel.

Kamel Mohanna, the head of the Amel Association, an NGO providing health services in different areas of Lebanon, said the association health center in the town of Khiam was hit and damaged by the Israeli shelling.

Israeli strikes have killed more than 400 people in Lebanon, most of them Hezbollah and other militants, but also over 80 civilians and non-combatants. In northern Israel, 16 soldiers and 11 civilians have been killed by strikes launched from Lebanon.

___

Associated Press writers Melanie Lidman and Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed to this report.
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Violent Jihadi fighters who had long operated in Africas volatile Sahel region have settled in northwestern Nigeria after crossing from neighboring Benin, a report has claimed.

It is the latest trend in the militants' movements to wealthier West African coastal nations.

The extremists believed to be linked to al-Qaida have in the last year crossed over from Benins hard-hit northern region and settled in Kainji Lake National Park, one of Nigerias largest, where other armed groups have also gained access, according to the report by the Clingendael Institute think tank, which has done extensive research in the Sahel.

Residents close to the park said that the facility, which holds one of West Africas fast-declining lion populations, has been closed for more than a year because of security threats from armed groups attacking neighboring villages and roads.

Before, it was like a tourism center (but) now, people find it difficult to pass through there, said John Yerima, who lives near the park in New Bussa town. You cannot enter that road (leading to the park) now. It is dangerous seriously.

The security situation at the 5,300-square kilometer (2,000-square mile) park in Niger state and along the nearby border with Benin is getting out of hand and is a much more explosive situation than we had anticipated, said Kars de Bruijne, one of the authors of the report and a senior research fellow at the institute.

The sustained presence of the armed groups in the park is the first sign of a connection between Nigeria's homegrown extremists that have launched a decadelong insurgency in its northern region, and al-Qaida-linked militants from the Sahel, the vast arid expanse south of the Sahara Desert, Bruijne said.

Their presence offers an opportunity for the extremists to claim large-scale success in both countries, already wracked by deadly attacks in recent years, he added.

Known as a global hot spot for violent extremism, the Sahel regions worsening security crisis comes as military coups are toppling democratic governments. As the military governments struggle to contain the violence, they are increasingly severing security with traditional partners France and the United States and turning to Russia for support.

This undated photograph handed out by French military shows Russian mercenaries boarding a helicopter in northern Mali. Russia's foreign minister Sergey Lavrov went on a tour of the Sub-Saharan region of the Sahel

In northwest Nigeria, security analysts have in the past warned that the regions remote territories, where the government is largely absent but have rich mineral resources and high poverty levels, present an opportunity for expansion for jihadi groups that had operated mainly in the Sahel, as well as the Islamic State group, whose fighters hold sway in the Lake Chad basin.

A link between Lake Chad and the Sahel is a major opportunity for al-Qaida and the Islamic State to boast about their profiles as leaders of global jihad, the report said.

There are also concerns from conservationists that the presence of armed groups in the park could further threaten the remaining lions whose populations have declined as a result of climate change and poaching.

The security situation has become top of the list when it comes to the concerns about the lion populations in Nigeria, said Stella Egbe, senior conservation manager at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation.

The Clingendael report said it is unclear what the motive of the Sahel extremists in the park is and what their relationship with other armed groups there will be. Security analysts say it offers opportunities for logistics and more influence amid booming illegal trade across the porous border.

The Sahelian jihadis potentially can try to use northwestern Nigeria as a place for fundraising, for logistics and to try to influence the jihadi groups there as part of their own competition," said James Barnett, a fellow at the Hudson Institute whose works in northwestern Nigeria were cited in the report.

Across many villages in Nigeria's northwest, banditry  not jihadi fighters  remains the major security threat, Barnett said.

The bandits have on a few occasions in the past collaborated with jihadi fighters as two separate groups in carrying out attacks. But even in rare collaborations, he said, there can be very deadly consequences.
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Watch as Spain marks the 10th anniversary of King Felipes coronation on Wednesday 19 June.

The monarch will attend a medal ceremony in Madrid, where he is expected to make a speech, before lunch at the Zarzuela Palace.

Felipe VI has reached 10 years on the throne after his father, King Juan Carlos, announced he would abdicate back in June 2014, aiming to revive the scandal-hit monarchy at a time of economic hardship and growing discontent with the wider political elite.

On 19 June 2014, Spains new king was handed the royal sash by his father, who signed his abdication and ended his 39-year reign.

Last month, Felipe also celebrated his 20th wedding anniversary.

He married Queen Letizia on 22 May 22 2004 and the couple have two children: Crown Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia.

The family are expected to appear on the balcony of Madrids Royal Palace during the 10th anniversary celebrations.
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A Russian court sent an American soldier to three years and nine months in a penal colony for stealing and threatening murder, state news media reported.

Gordon Black, 34, was detained in Vladivostok in Russias far east on 2 May. He was there to see Alexandra Vashchuk, a woman he believed to be his girlfriend, and was arrested after being accused of assaulting her and stealing 10,000 rubles (90) from her, according to state news agency TASS.

He forcefully grabbed the girl by the neck, which she perceived as a real threat to her life, and then stole money from her wallet, the prosecutor said.

Black denied making a threat, but admitted partial guilt for stealing the money. He intends to appeal the ruling.

Blacks sentencing further complicates US relations with Russia, which have grown increasingly tense as the fighting in Ukraine continues.

The soldier is one of the several Americans held in Russia, including former Marine Paul Whelan and The Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, both of whom the US State Department has declared as wrongfully detained.

US Army Staff Sergeant Gordon Black is escorted to a courtroom in Vladivostok, Russia, on 6 June 2024 ( AP )

Black, who has a wife and child in Texas, had met Ms Vashchuk in South Korea, where he was stationed on an American military base, and travelled to see her in Russia without authorisation.

His mother and wife previously described Blacks relationship with Ms Vashchuk as tempestuous. His mother told Reuters last month that he followed Ms Vashchuk to Russia even though they fought like cats and dogs.

Black and his wife got along well after meeting at a bar in 2014 but their relationship began to deteriorate in 2018 and he filed for divorce after moving to South Korea, according to the Reuters report.

His wife discovered his Russian girlfriend in January 2022 through Facebook where the girlfriend referred to Black as her husband.

Russian state news agencies Tass and RIA Novosti reported from the courtroom in the Pervomaisky District Court in Vladivostok that the judge also ordered Black to pay 10,000 rubles in damages. Prosecutors had asked for Black to be sentenced to four years and eight months in prison.

Others detained include Travis Leake, a musician who had been living in Russia for years and was arrested last year on drug-related charges; Marc Fogel, a teacher in Moscow who was sentenced to 14 years in prison, also on drug charges; and dual nationals Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Khavana.

The US State Department strongly advises American citizens not to go to Russia.

Under Pentagon policy, service members must get clearance for any international travel from a security manager or commander.

The US Army said last month that Black hadnt sought clearance for the international travel and it wasnt authorized by the Defense Department. Given the hostilities in Ukraine and threats to the U.S. and its military, it is extremely unlikely he would have been granted approval.

Additional inputs from agencies
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Hundreds of people have died during this years Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, with temperatures as high as 51C recorded this week.

Saudi Arabia has not commented on the death toll during the pilgrimage  a ritual that every able Muslim is required to undertake once in their life  nor offered any cause of death for those who have died. However, hundreds of people lined up at the emergency complex in the neighbourhood of al-Muaisem in Mecca, trying to get information about their missing family members.

One list circulating online suggested that at least 550 people died during the five-day Hajj. One medic, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss information not released publicly by the government, said that the names listed appeared to be genuine. That medic and another official, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said they believed there were at least 600 bodies at the facility. The list of names did not specify cause of death.

At least 323 of those who died were Egyptians, most of them succumbing to heat-related illnesses, according to two Arab diplomats tasked with coordinating their countries responses. All of [the Egyptians] died because of heat except for one who sustained fatal injuries during a minor crowd crush, one of the diplomats said. One hundred and forty-four Indonesian citizens died during Hajj, according to data the Indonesian health ministry shared on Tuesday. The data did not specify whether any of the deaths were due to heat stroke.

Each year, the Hajj draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from low-income nations, many of whom have had little, if any, pre-Hajj healthcare, an article in the April edition of the Journal of Infection and Public Health said.

Temperatures hit 51.8C at the Grand Mosque in Mecca on Monday, the Saudi national meteorology centre said. On Tuesday, the mercury reached 47C. Onlookers saw some people faint while trying to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil. Others, including many Egyptians, lost track of their loved ones in the heat and the crowds.

Pilgrims cast stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil ( AP )

More than 1.83 million Muslims have performed the Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million pilgrims from 22 countries and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.

On Wednesday, at the medical complex in Mecca, an Egyptian man collapsed to the ground when he heard the name of his mother listed among the dead. He cried for some time before grabbing his mobile phone and calling a travel agent, shouting: He left her to die! as the crowd tried to calm him.

Security appeared to be tight at the complex, with an official reading out names of the dead and their nationalities. They included people from Algeria, Egypt and India. Those who said they were relatives of the dead were allowed inside to identify their loved ones.

It was not possible to independently confirm cause of death at the complex. Saudi officials did not respond to questions seeking more information.

More than 1.83 million Muslims have performed the Hajj in 2024 ( AP )

The kingdoms ruling al-Saud family maintains a major influence in the Muslim world through its oil wealth and its management of Islams holiest sites. Like Saudi monarchs before him, King Salman has taken the title of the custodian of the two holy mosques, referring to the Grand Mosque in Mecca  home to the cube-shaped Kaaba, which Muslims pray towards five times a day  and the Prophets Mosque in the nearby city of Medina.

Saudi Arabia has spent billions of dollars on crowd control and safety measures for those attending the annual five-day pilgrimage, but the sheer number of participants makes ensuring their safety difficult.

The climate crisis could make the risk even greater. A 2019 study by experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that even if the world succeeds in mitigating the worst effects of climate change, the Hajj would be held in temperatures exceeding an extreme danger threshold from 2047 to 2052, and from 2079 to 2086.

Islam follows a lunar calendar, so the Hajj falls around 11 days earlier each year. In 2030, the Hajj will occur in April, and over the next several years it will fall in the winter, when temperatures are milder.

A 2015 stampede in Mina during the Hajj killed more than 2,400 pilgrims, the deadliest incident ever to strike the pilgrimage. Saudi Arabia has never acknowledged the full toll of the stampede. A separate crane collapse at Meccas Grand Mosque, which preceded the Mina disaster, killed 111 people.

The second-deadliest incident at Hajj was a stampede in 1990 that killed 1,426 people.

Associated Press
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Two astronauts will be stuck on the International Space Station for at least another week as experts at NASA and Boeing struggle to fix their spacecraft.

Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore arrived on the ISS on June 6 after a successful Boeing Starliner launch. Expected to only stay a week, the two will not be arriving on Earth before June 26, NASA and Boeing officials said in a Tuesday press conference.

The Boeing Starliner is facing several mechanical problems. En route to the station, the crew reported problems with five thrusters and four helium leaks. A fifth helium leak has since cropped up. Crews are working to make sure its safe before the astronauts are put back on and return home.

This delay comes after NASA and Boeing crews announced June 22 as their return date.

We want to give our teams a little bit more time to look at the data, do some analysis, and make sure were really ready to come home, Steve Stich, NASAs Commercial Crew Program manager, said on Tuesday.

open image in gallery Suni Williams, pictured, gives a tour of the International Space Station (ISS) on June 8. Williams and Butch Wilmore will remain on the ISS until at least June 26, NASA officials said ( NASA )

Stich said they do not see a scenario where Starliner is not going to be able to bring Butch and Suni home.

Crews will attempt to land in the White Sands area of New Mexico next week. If the crew cannot make the June 26 landing, the next prime opportunity will be on July 2, .

Dana Weigel, manager of NASAs International Space Station Program, said the crew is feeling positive.

They love Starliner, they love being in the vehicle, they love being on ISS, Weigel said on Tuesday. I think, you know, if you ask Butch and Suni, they might want to stay for a long period of time.

Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager for the Commercial Crew Program at Boeing, said the crew is taking advantange of the extra time.

I dont think a lot of us dont look at that as a delay, Nappi said. We look at that as an opportunity, and in this case, privilege to stay on station and do more work.

open image in gallery Butch Wilmore (left) and Williams (right) wave just before taking off in the Boeing Starliner spacecraft on June 5. Now, officials say their return to Earth will be delayed until at least June 26 ( Getty Images )

Boeings CST-100 Starliner, with Williams and Wilmore onboard, lifted off from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on June 5. After a 24-hour flight, they successfully docked on the ISS.

Boeing hopes Starliner will compete with SpaceXs Crew Dragon capsule, which has been NASAs only vehicle for sending ISS crew members to orbit from the US since 2020.

This mission follows years of other challenges Boeing has faced with Starliner.

In 2019, an unmanned aircraft saw a test failure with dozens of software glitches, design problems and management issues. Three years later, a repeat unmanned test successfully landed on the ISS.
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Since 1 January, 2024, the value of Nvidia has risen by an average of more than $10 billion every single day. To put this figure into perspective, thats more than the current market cap of Reddit  and more than Nvidia was worth just a decade ago.

On Tuesday, the California-based company became not only the worlds most valuable company, but also the most valuable company ever. A new record share price of $136 took its overall market capitalisation above $3.3 trillion  more than the annual GDP of the UK.

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The astonishing rise of the computer chip maker can be pegged, almost to the day, to the release of ChatGPT in late 2022. The artificial intelligence chatbot brought large language models (LLMs) into the public view for the first time, becoming the worlds fastest growing app as people realised the potential AI held for everything from drafting work emails, to offering travel tips.

Nearly every major tech conference and keynote from that point on has had a heavy focus on AI  Googles most recent developer event mentioned the term more than 120 times during a 110 minute presentation  while demand for the chips that power AI has soared to never-before-seen levels in the tech industry.

For Nvidia, this artificial intelligence boom coincided with a period of massive market dominance for its graphics processing units (GPUs), which are essential hardware for building and training powerful AI models.

In taking the top spot of the worlds most valuable company, Nvidia surpassed the very same US tech companies that are now pivoting towards AI-centric futures: Microsoft, Apple and Alphabet (Google).

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While Nvidias rise can be attributed to the critical role that its chips play in the race to dominate the market for AI, some industry figures have warned that its recent lack of competition in the space may soon be coming to an end.

As capital pours into the industry, a number of other startups have also entered the space, while existing tech giants like Apple have moved to make their chips in-house.

Nvidias relentless rise to the top of the leader board illustrates a crucial point: powerful hardware is the foundation upon which the AI revolution is built, Daniel Bathurst, head of product at AI cloud provider Nscale, told The Independent.

As enterprise and start-ups alike bet big on AI, more players are entering this arena and catching up quickly. In this battleground for AI spend, constant innovation is king. But, while powerful chips are a key ingredient, the AI ecosystem is more than just hardware. We need a diverse offering at the chip, hardware, and software level to support a thriving, sustainable AI landscape. As AI continues to develop, collaboration and diverse innovation in every element of the infrastructure will be crucial to unlocking its full potential.

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The AI frenzy has helped boost other technology firms, with four of the top five most valuable companies now from the US tech sector.

Nvidias dramatic rise has attracted retail investors and drawn comparisons to pandemic-era meme stocks that saw similarly meteoric gains  followed by inevitable collapses. Yet some analysts believe the semiconductor giant could continue its rally, at least in the short term.

Following the companys recent 10-for-1 stock split, Rosenblatt Securities analyst Hans Mosesmann increased the share price target for Nvidia from $140 to $200. This would take its market value close to $5 trillion.

The forecast is based on Nvidias anticipated earnings for 2026, suggesting that even if other rivals are able to take some of the firms market share for hardware, its AI software will see Nvidias gold rush continue.

The real narrative lies in the software that complements all the hardware goodness, Mosesmann noted.

We anticipate this software aspect will significantly increase in the next decade in terms of overall sales mix.
Government says it will not tire to provide timely answers to underlying and emerging questions at the heart of many Malawians with regards to circumstances surrounding the death of the Veep Saulos Chilima and eight other government officials in a plane crash last week

In a press conference held in Lilongwe today, Kunkuyu answered questions regarding the safety of crash plane's Blackbox, the request by Chilima's family to construct a memorial tower at the crash site, the progress on the independent investigations and also confirmed that President Lazarus Chakwera has cancelled his trip to South Africa to attend the inauguration of the re-elected Cyril Ramaphosa.

Kunkuyu said Chakwera has, in his stead, delegated Minister of Foreign Affairs Nancy Tembo to represent him while the country continues mourning the demise of the Vice President.

On the safety of the Blackbox--which is a flight data recorder--Kunkuyu said the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) is at the crash site as it an accident place as such everything about the plane is secured. He also, on the Blackbox, underlined that he can't comment much as it is one of the technical issues about the plane that will be subject both to local and international investigators.

On the independent investigations, Kunkuyu has said that consultations are underway on the launch of an investigation, adding that the President is committed to seeing this issue through.

The Minister has also hailed the media, the church and the nation at large, for the unity demonstrated this far. He said government does not take for granted the level of sanity demonstrated during such a difficult time.

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"This whole week has been difficult for all of us but we held our sanity. In the interest of Access to Information (ATI) I would like to request that government and the press should not close this chapter," further said the Minister.

The soft-spoken Minister also responded to the question regarding the querry by Chilima's family to visit the crash and also have a marble erected. He said: "The matter has been presented before the Funeral Committee and it will be discussed and the public will be informed."

On the appointment of Chilima's replacement, Kunkuyu said Chakwera will comply with the seven days period to appoint Vice President, as required by law. He said president Chakwera always abides by and respects the law, while responding to a question on whether the president will comply with the law.

During the same event, Kunkuyu told journalists that they yet to establish how much of the taxpayers money has been spent on the funeral, adding that the information will be made public when it's ready.

He was addressing journalists in Lilongwe where he has among other things given a roundup update on events from the point the aircraft carrying the vice president and eight others went missing to this day.
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Two people onboard an Air New Zealand flight were injured after the plane encountered severe turbulence in the latest such incident.

A passenger suffered moderate burn injuries after a full coffee pot fell on her while she was strapped into her seat, reported Radio New Zealand.

A crew member also reportedly hit the cabins ceiling while the Air New Zealand flight from New Zealands capital Wellington to Queenstown suffered severe air turbulence on Sunday afternoon.

The turbulence jolted the passengers about 15 minutes into the flight while the cabin crew was in the middle of service. The airlines said in a statement that a customer and a crew member were injured during turbulence on NZ607 from Wellington to Queenstown.

Chief operational and safety officer Captain David Morgan said: From time to time, clear-air turbulence can occur where rough air is not visible to the flight crew. Were always reviewing our operating procedures in line with both regulation and international best practice to ensure the safety of our customers and crew is prioritised.

Clear-air turbulence (CAT) is a type of turbulence that occurs in clear skies without any visual warning, such as clouds or thunderstorms.

The passenger who was injured was identified by her first name Suze by RNZ. She told the outlet that it was first a small jolt and then a massive jolt.

The trolley was shaking in the aisle, causing the coffee pot lids to come off and spill hot coffee onto her.

"Theres nothing you can do. Youre strapped in, you want to stay strapped in, there could be more turbulence and then youve got to deal with the level of burns youve just received," she said.

It was actually pandemonium, she said.

Another passenger on the flight informed Central Otago media outlet Crux that a crew member mentioned the intense turbulence was the worst she had experienced in her career.

They also said that another crew member told them they had hit the ceiling.

The Independent has reached out to Air New Zealand for comments.

Severe turbulence is caused by an erratic wind current occurring in cloudless regions of the sky at the cruising altitude of passenger jets. It is generated by wind shear, which is a change in the direction and velocity of winds that can displace aircraft abruptly from their intended path.

Emerging evidence suggests the temperature changes caused by the climate crisis are disrupting the flow of air currents in the atmosphere due to changes in wind speed and direction.

In March, at least 50 people were injured when a LATAM Airlines LA800 flight travelling from Sydney to Auckland experienced a sudden drop in altitude due to a strong shake of turbulence.

In March, a British passenger died and 101 people suffered injuries after a Bangkok to London flight plunged 178ft and people were thrown off their seats, hitting the roof of the cabin.
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The capital city of Alaska will set new limits on how many cruise ship passengers can visit every day after a post-pandemic deluge of tourism.

Last year the roughly 32,000 residents of Juneau weathered hordes of hikers, schools of whale watchers, and swarms of overflying helicopters as roughly 1.6m visitors in total  or up to 21,000 per day in peak periods  disembarked at the docks.

Now the city government has signed a voluntary agreement with the cruise ship industry that caps the number of vessels allowed to dock each day, starting in 2026.

The agreement limits daily docking to ships with a cumulative 16,000 beds on Sundays through Fridays and 12,000 beds on Saturdays, although the number of actual visitors will sometimes be larger because cruise ships often exceed their listed capacity.

"The citys position is that we do not have room for cruise growth with our current infrastructure, and we have negotiated the daily passenger limits to bring down our busiest days," city tourism manager Alexandra Pierce told The Guardian.

"Cruise tourism is important for our local and regional economies, and we need to be good neighbors while also finding the balance between concerned residents and the local livelihoods that depend on the visitor industry."

open image in gallery A cruise ship dwarfed by nature as it rests beside the Juneau docks in June 2017 ( AP Photo/Becky Bohrer )

But some locals believe the new limits are insufficient, and are pushing for a ballot measure that would reduce the limit to 250 beds on Saturdays and July 4, effectively banning most passenger ships on those days.

"All we are seeking is one day a week, plus the Fourth of July, when locals can go downtown, visit the glacier, hike on our trails, and go fishing without competing with thousands and thousands of cruise passengers," said supporter Steve Krall last week, according to The Juneau Empire.

"This is a modest and reasonable request: a simple day of rest for everyone."

Other residents have opposed the ballot measure, arguing that cruise ships bring in enormous amounts of consumer spending and tax revenue that the city and its people cannot afford to pass up.

Juneau, a former gold mining town shielded from the Pacific Ocean by the rocky labyrinth of the Alexander Archipelago, bills itself as the single most popular whale-watching destination in the world and has a tourist season lasting roughly 22 weeks.

Between 2022 and 2023, the number of cruise ship passengers visiting Juneau rose by 44 percent, according to The Alaska Beacon, which Pierce said was "shocking" and sometimes "suffocating" for many residents.

The new agreement is reportedly intended to keep tourist numbers roughly steady, giving the city more time to expand its infrastructure while incorporating enough of a delay that cruise lines can adapt their future schedules.
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Algeria wants to lure more visitors to the cultural and scenic treasures of Africas largest country, shedding its status as a tourism backwater and expanding a sector outshone by competitors in neighbouring Morocco and Tunisia.

The giant north African country offers Roman and Islamic sites, beaches and mountains just an hours flight from Europe, and haunting Saharan landscapes, where visitors can sleep on dunes under the stars and ride camels with Tuareg nomads.

But while tourist-friendly Morocco welcomed 14.5 million visitors in 2023, bigger, richer Algeria hosted just 3.3 million foreign tourists, according the tourism ministry.

open image in gallery Above the Santa Cruz chapel in the city of Oran ( REUTERS )

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About 1.2 million of those holiday-makers were Algerians from the disapora visiting families.

The lack of travellers is testimony to Algerias neglect of a sector that remains one of world tourisms undiscovered gems.

As Algerias oil and gas revenues grew in the 1960s and 70s, successive governments lost interest in developing mass tourism. A descent into political strife in the 1990s pushed the country further off the beaten track.

But while security is now much improved, Algeria needs to tackle an inflexible visa system and poor transport links, as well as grant privileges to local and foreign private investors to enable tourism to flourish, analysts say.

open image in gallery People walk near the Regional Theater of Oran ( REUTERS )

Saliha Nacerbay, General Director of the National Tourism Office, outlined plans to attract 12 million tourists by 2030 - an ambitious fourfold increase.

To achieve this, we, as the tourism and traditional industry sector, are seeking to encourage investments, provide facilities to investors, build tourist and hotel facilities, she said, speaking at the International Tourism and Travel Fair, hosted in Algiers from May 30 to June 2.

Algeria has plans to build hotels and restructure and modernize existing ones. The tourism ministry said that about 2,000 tourism projects have been approved so far, 800 of which are currently under construction.

open image in gallery A lion statue at the central square of Place d'Armes in Oran ( REUTERS )

The country is also restoring its historical sites, with 249 locations earmarked for tourism expansion. Approximately 70 sites have been prepared, and restoration plans are underway for 50 additional sites, officials said.

French tourist Patrick Lebeau emphasised the need to improve infrastructure to fully realise Algerias tourism prospects.

Obviously, there is a lot of tourism potential, but much work still needs to be done to attract us, Lebeau said.

Tourism and travel provided 543,500 jobs in Algeria in 2021, according to the Statista website. In contrast, tourism professionals in Morocco estimate the sector provides 700,000 direct jobs in the kingdom, and many more jobs indirectly.

Read more: Where to go on holiday in Morocco, from Marrakech to Fes
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Two hours after sundown we pushed our glass-bottomed kayaks out onto Mosquito Bay, a small inlet on the south coast of Puerto Ricos remote island of Vieques, the surrounding mangrove trees silhouetted against the dark blue sky.

It was deathly silent as we paddled forward, following the voice of our guide and doing our best to keep our strokes in time as we headed for the centre of the bay. A sudden shriek pierced the silence from a neighbouring kayak. Its beneath you! Look down!

The black water began to change, sparkling a glittering blue. A thick stream of diamonds whooshed under the boat as the current from the Caribbean Sea carried us forward.

Wed found the magic of Mosquito Bays bioluminescence. I dipped my hand in the warm water and the diamonds trickled down my arm like something from a trippy dreamscape. This type of plankton that glows as a defence mechanism when disturbed makes Vieques home to one of the brightest bioluminescent bays in the world  and Im fortunate that Im being shown it by the people who know it best: the islands locals.

Its one of several locally led experiences that show tourists a new way to explore the archipelago, away from Puerto Ricos busy capital San Juan and the citys popular historic old quarter, which while beautiful, contains only a taste of what this country has to offer.

open image in gallery Vieques is surrounded by beaches with white sands and turquoise waters ( Discover Puerto Rico )

Vieques lies about eight miles off the mainland and is reachable via ferry or charter flight, with the latter lasting only 10 minutes and giving you views of lush green treetops and clear turquoise waters as you glide overhead.

It was baking hot by the time we touched down. In dire need of coffee, I was taken straight to Rising Roost, which as the name suggests, is the right place for a pick-me-up. Its owners Luz Yanira and Jose are from Puerto Ricos central mountain region and took over the cafe in 2020. They serve up some of the best brew on the island and were poised at the espresso machine when we arrived. Hallelujah.

Make sure you try some mavi, said Luz Yanira. Its what all the locals drink here, we love it. Its a slightly sweet, fermented juice made from bark. I ordered a glass and sipped cautiously. It was sweet and refreshing, with that subtle fermented funk  a lot like the kombucha Im used to back home.

Read more on island getaways:

The north of the island is known for its traditional food, so in addition to having American classics on the menu, Rising Roost serves up drinks such as mavi as well as Puerto Rican dishes like el bote veggie, which is a local bread called sobao thats stuffed with scrambled eggs and vegetables, and topped with cheese.

Fuelled for the morning, we were given a brief history lesson by local resident Angie, who was born and raised on Vieques and runs a range of tours. She explained that, like in other parts of Puerto Rico, you can easily spot traces of the 400 years the country spent under Spanish colonial rule. This includes Fortin Conde de Mirasol, the last Spanish fort built in the Americas (about a three-minute drive away from Rising Roost), and, more unusually, hundreds of free-roaming horses that still share the land with the islands residents.

Look now, you can see the baby with her mama, Angie pointed to them in a clearing by the side of the road. The story goes they were introduced to the island by Spanish conquistadors and have since adapted to the local environment. Theyre very friendly, Angie added.

open image in gallery Rising Roost owners Luz Yanira and Jose ( Robyn Wilson )

Vieques has 15 beaches dotted around its 21-mile circumference, each with its own unique draw or requiring a little effort to reach (were talking bumpy car rides and woodland walks), but for those who persevere they can be idyllic pockets of tranquillity.

La Chiva Beach is the islands most popular and accessible as you can drive right to the shore. Horses were quietly grazing in the shade when we pulled up and headed out for a swim in the clear turquoise waters.

Our second beach is known locally as Playa Negra due to its volcanic black sand. It is reached on foot down a path covered by a canopy of palm trees, where small crabs pop in and out the holes along its sandy verges.

Puerto Rico wears the dual hat of being a US territory and a Caribbean island. Its also the self-proclaimed rum capital in the world. So, of course, a visit here would be remiss without a tasting. On to our next stop.

Were shown big vats of honey-coloured rum bubbling away in silver brewing tanks by Roberto, a member of the small four-person team working at Crab Island Rum, the islands first artisan distillery, which opened in 2019.

We [the team] are all from Vieques, Roberto said. I used to be a musician on the main island but after Hurricane Maria I came back to help, because everything was devastated and everyone was trying to help each other, of course. Hes not the only person I spoke to who had returned to the island to help after Hurricane Maria reaped devastation in 2017. A category 5 hurricane, 2,975 of the 3,059 deaths were in Puerto Rico alone. Its clear the regions recovery was very much a shared one; its island communities rebuilt by those who call Puerto Rico home.

open image in gallery Its very likely that youll spot leatherback turtles while snorkelling ( Crystal Clear )

Then I started here in 2021, trying a bit of everything, Roberto added, referring to the different roles across the distillery from manning the gift shop and bar work (at their onsite bar), to learning the ropes as a rum producer. We want to try and get people here who want to work and learn something different. Were so small right now, but little by little, every year were trying to make something different to get a bit bigger.

Our day ended at El Quenepo, an open-air restaurant run by husband-and-wife team Scott (chef) and Kate (host), who also run an adjoining hotel Puertas at El Quenepo, which gets its name from the beautifully restored doors fronting each of the rooms, taken from wood from the island.

This building is kind of an amalgamation of Viequess history with a lot of nods to Puerto Rico in general but particularly Vieques because were a super independent community, Kate explained as plates of crispy pakora prawns and spicy harissa arrived at the table, alongside a platter of local rabbit with spinach ravioli.

Were really an extended family here on Vieques. The island is all mom-and-pop businesses, were all small. So, you are supporting the person youre seeing, youre supporting each and every one of these people, its never a corporation owned by someone else.

open image in gallery Roberto from Crab Island Rum, the islands first artisan distillery ( Robyn Wilson )

We stayed at El Blok, a hotel about a five-minute walk from El Quenepo down the main strip. Like other parts of Vieques, the street is lit up red at night so as not to disorientate the thriving leatherback turtle population on the island that you have a high chance of seeing when snorkelling  which we do the following morning.

The seabed is covered with seagrass, which the turtles feed off when were out of jellyfish season, said Sarah Elise, founder of eco-tourism group Crysal Clear, which among their tours run snorkelling sessions to catch a glimpse of the turtles and other marine life.

Crysal Clear was heavily involved in a coral reef protection initiative when a Caribbean-wide bleaching event threatened the reef with disease. In addition to their tours, theyre keen to educate about marine protection and weave this knowledge into their sessions.

We snorkelled out from the beachfront (no boats required) and within minutes saw a huge leatherback turtle swimming below. Three more soon appeared, grazing on the sea floor. I peacefully floated above them, watching a little more of the islands magic unfurl beneath me.

Where to stay

El Blok

El Blok is centrally located along Viequess main promenade, Esperanzas El Malecon, making it a great place from which to explore the island. Its design has taken inspiration from the surrounding coral reefs, with patterned exteriors that allow in natural light and fresh air, at the same time as giving guests plenty of privacy across all of the hotels 30 rooms.

Puertas at El Quenepo

This two-story intimate guesthouse, located along Esperanza beach, has been lovingly restored by the restaurateurs behind El Quenepo (which resides below). One of the main features of the property is large wooden stable doors (or puertas), from which it gets its name. The rooms all come with four-poster beds and antique furniture, while the bespoke interiors make this a unique stay. Prices start from around $165 (130) a night.

Condado Ocean Club

If you want to stay in San Juan for a night or two before or after heading out to Vieques, the Condado Ocean Club is a good option. This all-adult boutique hotel is set on San Juans oceanfront with 96 of its rooms featuring water views. The rooms are beautifully chic, with floor-to-ceiling windows and clean white finishes. Its poolside parties are a guest mainstay, with a bar, music and plenty of loungers to soak up the rays.

How to get there

Flights from the UK to San Juan via New York JFK start at 605 return with JetBlue.

You can get a flight from Ceiba (to the east of the island) to Vieques. Prices start at around 80 return. Visitors can also get a ferry to Vieques from Ceiba, which takes about 35-40 minutes and costs $4 (3) for a return ticket.

Robyn Wilson was travelling as a guest of Discover Puerto Rico.

Read more on the best Caribbean islands for seafront stays
A McDonalds employee in Florida has been arrested after she pulled out a gun and shot at customers following a drive-thru dispute.

CCTV footage released by the police shows the fight between Chassidy Gardner, 22, and a group of people at a restaurant in Lakeland, Florida, on Friday 14 June.

Lakeland Police Department said Gardner argued with the customers before throwing a drink at them as they tried to drive away.

Two of the customers then got out of their vehicle and opened up the drive-thru window to throw drinks back at Gardner, who armed herself with a handgun.

She stepped outside to continue the argument, before firing her weapon at the vehicle, hitting it at least once, as the customers drove away.
A people trafficker boasts he can smuggle migrants from Vietnam to Britain for 20,000 on a canoe.

The criminal told an undercover Sky News reporter, who posed as a Briton looking to bring a nanny from Vietnam to the UK, that the journey can be made in as little as seven days, insisting it is safer than using a container.

He said the journey involved getting migrants into Europe by exploiting Hungarian work visas before sending them across the Channel on a canoe.

The criminal told Sky News: It used to be dangerous, but now it's safe.

We use canoes to cross the Channel, which isn't far.
Nato and US officials have described Vladimir Putins visit to Pyongyang as a mark of desperation from the Russian leader.

Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, told reporters on Tuesday 18 June that Russia was trying to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its war in Ukraine.
Just Stop Oil activists have sprayed Stonehenge with orange paint in their latest climate protest.

Footage shows the pair, named by the group as Niamh Lynch, 21, and Rajan Naidu, 73, defacing the ancient stones - located near Salisbury - on the eve of summer solstice.

Wiltshire Police said officers attended the scene and arrested two people on Wednesday 19 June.

The paint is made of cornstarch, which will wash away in the rain, Just Stop Oil wrote, sharing the footage.

But the urgent need for effective government action to mitigate the catastrophic consequences of the climate and ecological crisis will not.
Malclose is proposing to use the bed spaces for short-term lets during student holiday periods

An Bord Pleanala has given the green light for a 13-storey 899-student-bed scheme at Gowan House, on Dublins Naas Road.

The appeal boards granting of planning permission to Malclose Ltd overturns a Dublin City Council planning refusal and a recommendation by its own inspector to refuse planning permission for the scheme, at Carriglea Business Park.

The green light followed Malclose putting forward a 13-storey scheme as a new option at appeal stage after the council refused planning permission for a 15-storey, 941-bed student accommodation scheme.

Malclose  which is a subsidiary of Michael Coxs Hollybrook Homes  is proposing to also use the bed spaces for short-term lets during student holiday periods.

The council refused planning permission for the site after concluding that the scheme fails to align with the principle of a 15-minute city and a number of other grounds.

It refused planning permission on five separate grounds in a comprehensive rejection of the scheme.

However, in its ruling, the appeals board said that it disagreed with both the council and its inspector that the scheme didnt accord with the principle of a 15-minute city.

The appeals board said there are retail outlets within a 15-minute radius, there is a Luas stop 150 metres from the site and the area is in transition. They said this shows the development accords with the city development plan.

The revised and scaled-down design has had regard to the context and emerging height that has been permitted on sites to the south and west, the board said.

The revised design reduces the scale, bulk and prominence of the building in the street-scape by stepping the height.

The amendments in reducing the height of the scheme, the board said, ensured the design of the building did not undermine the status of the identified landmark buildings within the strategic development and regeneration area for the Naas Road.

The board concludes the scheme addresses the provision of more student accommodation with public transport links easily accessible from the site.

It says that the schemes high standard of design creates an attractive place, which will enliven the area without dominating the streetscape, and regenerate a brownfield site.
Dublin Airport wanted to use the former Quickpark site, which can accommodate 6,100 vehicles

Dublin Airport is handling about 120,000 passengers on its busiest days during the summer

The DAA is unable to operate a massive carpark beside Dublin Airport for the summer due to competition issues, its understood.

The DAA, which operates Dublin Airport and Cork Airport, had originally intended to buy the former QuickPark carpark from developer Gerry Gannon for about 70m. The carpark can accommodate more than 6,100 vehicles and was the biggest carpark serving Dublin Airport before it closed a number of years ago. Mr Gannon put the carpark up for sale in 2022.

Carparking facilities at Dublin Airport are near capacity over the busy summer season, with passengers being advised to take public transport where possible, or to secure taxis and lifts from friends and relatives. The DAA operates 20,000 carpark spaces at Dublin Airport.

Wed like more carpark spaces, DAA chief executive Kenny Jacobs told the Joint Oireachtas Transport Committee on Wednesday. Most of all, wed like to buy the Quickpark site.

But earlier this year, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) blocked the planned purchase of the carpark by the DAA.

The watchdog claimed that it had concerns that the sale to the airport operator would lead to higher prices and lower service quality for consumers.

Since the CCPC decision, we have engaged with the owner of Quickpark  Ive met with the owner myself  saying could we do a deal to operate it for two months, Mr Jacobs told the committee.

We were close to getting a deal done, but theyve withdrawn from that process, he added. We wanted to be able to operate it and our understanding was legally we could on a short-term basis, just for July and August, and then wed be gone in September.

While the DAA secured legal advice that there should be no obstacle to doing so, its understood that CCPC indicated that even the temporary plan would be in contravention of competition rules.

Mr Jacobs aid it was a shame that it wasnt able to buy the carpark.

That would have given us an additional 6,000 spaces, he said. Theyre also the best 6,000 spaces that exist. I think it was a great shame that last summer, wed issues with carparking and we werent able to operate those spaces.

Mr Jacobs told the committee that Mr Gannon is still actively looking to sell the site.

I hope they do, because theres nothing worse than looking out and hearing about people being anxious about carparking and then you see tumbleweed going across 6,000 spaces, he said.

Carparking fills up quickly at Dublin Airport during the summer, but Mr Jacobs insisted passengers can still secure long-term spaces while they travel away on holidays.

If you want to get a short-term carparking space this weekend, were sold out, he told the committee. But if youre going away on the classic one-week or two-week holiday and you want to get a long-term car park space, go on the website and youll be able to book and youll be able to find one.

Mr Jacobs warned that Dublin Airport remains in danger of breaching its 32 million annual passenger cap this year despite its best efforts to ensure it doesnt happen.

He said that the passenger cap is blunt and out of date.
opinion

In a tribute posted today on his Facebook page, former president Peter Mutharika waxed lyrical about the "good relationship" he allegedly shared with his former vice president, Saulos Chilima. However, Mutharika's words ring hollow when examined against his series of militant words and actions against Chilima during his time in power.

Throughout Chilima's tenure as vice president under Mutharika's leadership, the former president made repeated calls for Chilima to resign from government. Chilima refused to bow to these demands, instead resigning from Mutharika's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and founding his own political party, the UTM.

In August 2018, Mutharika threatened to deal with Chilima and his team using Section 4 of the Protected Flag, Emblems and Names Act: "I hear that last week these movement [UTM] people came here and spoke very disrespectful things about me. But I want to warn Chilima, Masangwi, Kaliati and Callista Chapola. I want to warn you, don't push me around. You better stop what you are doing. There are laws in this country about how you describe a President. If you will not stop, I am going to break on your heads a tonne of bricks, and I mean it," he said. But this threat backfired big time following public backlash such that Mutharika lost the appetite of even opening the Act.

In July 2019, Mutharika's office withdrew Chilima's security clearance, saying he would only have that privilege when performing government duties. But Mutharika never delegated any government duties to Chilima, effectively grounding him without any security clearance. Remember the days Mutharika would let either Goodall Gondwe or Kondwani Nankhumwa being in-charge of the country when he was going abroad?

On 12th September 2019, Mutharika made a cabinet reshuffle, the entire purpose of which was to drop Chilima, the Vice President then, from his cabinet. This was a blatant defiance of the Constitution which entitles the Vice President to be part of the Cabinet. The constitution provides that the country shall have "a Cabinet consisting of the President, the First Vice President, ... and such Ministers and Deputy Ministers as may, from time to time, be appointed by the President".

This followed a protracted period of ill-treating and sidelining Chilima on account that he was a threat to a succession plan which was not ready to accommodate anyone from outside Lhomwe belt to become DPP torchbearer. Tired with the ill-treatment, Chilima simply resigned from the then ruling DPP, accusing it of breeding nepotism, cronyism and corruption.

On 4th May 2020, Chilima spoke during a press briefing that he conducted at UTM offices in Area 10, Lilongwe saying: "In short, Professor Mutharika and the DPP have no intention of preaching non-tribalism or national unity. Their evil agenda is tribal hegemony. Their ideology is rooted in violence and intimidation. He and his party have decided to wage a war on the people of this nation..."

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Evidently, Mutharika's current attempts to rewrite history with empty platitudes about their relationship are nothing more than crocodile tears, designed to obscure his shameful treatment of his former vice president.

The people of Malawi deserve leaders who prioritize national unity and the rule of law, not those who engage in petty political vendettas and abuse their power to sideline perceived rivals.

Mutharika's hollow tribute to Chilima is a disservice to the Malawian people and a blatant attempt to rewrite a history that is all too well documented.
Donal ODonovan: If houses and apartments arent viable, why are we building them?

Ireland needs 17bn to plug the gap between what the State will fund and a housing need for around 50,000 homes a year

The average cost of delivering a new apartment in Dublin in 2022 was 496,000. The cost of building a three-bed semi-detached house was 359,000. Photo: Getty

Donal O'Donovan Wed 19 Jun 2024 at 03:30

New housing report, same old solution  bend Ireland Inc into whatever shape is required to catch the eye of international investors wholl throw a new pot of cash at the problem.
Nama expects to have returned 5.2bn to the State by the time it is wound up

The National Asset Management Agency (Nama), the States bad bank, is still pursuing debtors who it believes are hiding assets, chief executive Brendan McDonagh has revealed.

The agency is due to complete its work at the end of next year, but Finance Minister Michael McGrath is planning to set up a resolution unit within the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) to look after any issues or assets that are still outstanding.

We believe the debtors might have some assets that they should be handing over

This will include litigation, and Mr McDonagh said that Nama is still involved in 17 cases, although seven are considered to be dormant, with no action taken by the plaintiffs for some time.

There are 10 cases that Nama is trying to resolve, as the plaintiff in five and the defendant in the others.

Acknowledging they may not be finished by the time Nama winds up at the end of 2025, Mr McDonagh observed: Sometimes people want to go to court.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - June 19th

The CEO said that while some of the legal cases do not involve assets at all, in others we believe the debtors might have some assets that they should be handing over.

"We have pursued debtors all the way through Namas life, and it would not be fair to walk away now.

At the end of 2025 the number of legal cases left should be less than 10, he predicted, while the value of assets remaining in Namas portfolio will be less than 50m.

The bad bank  which was set up in 2009 to help deal with the banking crisis  has contributed 4.25bn to the State, and expects to have paid back 5.2bn by the time it is wound up. This includes 400m in corporation tax.

It made a profit of 68m after tax last year, according to its most recent annual report, the 13th year in a row of profitability.

McDonagh is entitled to a 60pc bonus  but has waived this since being appointed

Nama says it has delivered 14,269 housing units to the State, including 422 last year.

Another 21,989 residential units have been built on sites that previously benefited from Nama funding, bringing the agencys total housing contribution to 36,258 units since 2014.

There are another 14,282 potential units in its landbank, with planning applications lodged for 3,698 of these, which are currently awaiting a decision from An Bord Pleanala.

Mr McDonagh said that a decision has been awaited on applications for up to two years, with Nama being no different from anyone else in the market when it comes to planning delays.

When it was set up, Nama took on the loans linked to 60,000 properties, with over a third of these in Britain and Northern Ireland, and 8pc of them in America and Europe.

Mr McDonagh said most of the properties left on its books are in Dublin, although there are a number of strategic sites in Kildare.

There are only two assets overseas, which the CEO said are complicated by local legal issues.

One of these is in Poland, and he described the other as being on the side of a mountain in Montenegro.

Nama says it has delivered 14,269 housing units to the State

As Nama continues its wind-down, the number of staff at the agency reduced from 110 to 92 last year. The total bill for pay, pensions and benefits was 16.1m, down from 18.6m the previous year.

Mr McDonaghs annual salary as CEO remains at 430,000, and he is entitled to a performance bonus of up to 60pc of that. However, he again waived this entitlement, as he has done since being appointed.

Speaking at the launch of Namas annual report, Finance Minister Michael McGrath said he is about to bring forward legislation for approval by the Cabinet in order to set up the new resolution unit in the NTMA.

The unit will also complete the wind-down of the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (IBRC), the entity set up in 2011 as a merger of the state-owned Anglo Irish Bank and Irish Nationwide Building Society.

There are 10 assets left in the IBRC portfolio, for which disposal strategies are in place, but they are complex, Mr McGrath said.
New development would help reduce pressure on the hospitality sector

The development is planned for the Dublin Docklands

One of Europes largest tourist hostel operators, Berlin-headquartered a&o, is to establish its first tourist hostel in the Irish market.

It follows Patrick Creans Marlet Group lodging plans to convert a permitted seven-storey office development in Dublins docklands to a 496-bed tourist hostel for Martins Terrace, Dublin 2, and adjoining lands at the corner of Macken Street and the newly realigned Hanover Street East.

A planning report  lodged on behalf of applicants and Marlet subsidiary Prime GP4 Ltd, with the application by planning consultant Kevin Hughes, of Hughes Planning and Development Consultants  says that the a&o chain is to operate the tourist hostel.

Mr Hughes said a&o last year accommodated 6.1 million tourist bed nights in the most successful year yet for the business.

He says from a practical perspective, the tourist hostel will contribute much more to the vitality of the area throughout the day compared with an office building, while also ensuring increased activity within the immediate area at night.

While the proposal seeks to substantially alter the use of the permitted office scheme, the form, scale and design of the approved building will not be subject to significant revision, he said.

The proposed hostel will assist in alleviating pressure on the hospitality sector following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, he added.

Mr Hughes says while there are 24 tourist accommodation and seven student accommodation facilities within 1km of the subject site, the proposed tourist hostel will not result in an over-concentration or proliferation of tourist accommodation in the immediate area.

We contend there is a market and a need for additional tourist accommodation within Dublin city centre and will aid in creating an added tourism draw to the historic and cultural hub that is the Grand Canal Dock and will enhance its status as a tourism destination.

Dublin has the highest hotel occupancy rate across 35 European countries, at 83.4pc, according to the report, and some existing hotels have been taken out of general public use for refugees and international protection applicants.

The planning report says this leaves a direct problem with hotel room affordability with instances such as live music and sporting events regularly resulting in hotel prices becoming unaffordable.

Mr Hughes submits that the proposal can contribute additional tourist accommodation within Dublin city.

The a&o firm was founded in Berlin in 2000 and operates 41 properties, including three pipeline properties in European city centres. The 41 properties comprise 8,200 rooms and 28,000 beds.

Last year, it enjoyed record revenues of 220m.
Judge rules pub owner, allegedly owed 442,000, should have the publicans licence returned pending full hearing

A High Court judge has found that a pub lessee with alleged arrears of 441,948 engaged in a Mexican standoff and unlawfully held the publicans licence to prevent the landlord re-letting the north Dublin premises.

Mr Justice David Nolan said Lindat Limited, the owner and landlord of the Donaghmede Inn premises, has a strong case, yet to be argued at a full trial, that it validly served a forfeiture notice on the tenant.

He was satisfied Lindat made out a strong case at this pre-trial stage that he should grant an order for the tenant, The PW Plaza Cafebar Limited, to return the publicans licence to it.

He said PW Plaza Cafebar began leasing the premises, in a shopping centre in Grange, Baldoyle, in September 2020, when pubs could not trade due to Covid-19 restrictions. The premises was at that point vacant and in need of total refurbishment, he said.

It is part of the large property company Harcourt Development Group, which Lindat was also part of until July 2023, when its shares were transferred to a new company called Marisola Ltd.

Under new ownership, Lindat served a notice of forfeiture on PW Plaza Cafebar in August 2023 when arrears of rent, service charges and insurance premiums allegedly totalled 441,948, said Mr Justice Nolan.

The tenant alleged the notice was invalid due to a September 2020 side letter to the lease which, it said, suspended payments until the pub was furnished and trading. It claimed it spent more than 255,000 upgrading the premises and that it is still willing to pay rent once Lindat permits it to open. It alleged the landlord has been preventing it from operating.

The judge said the lease, drawn up when the two firms were still part of the same group, recited that the rent was for the premises in shell and core state.

A clause suspended the rent during Covid-19 restrictions, and a side letter was written by Lindat to PW Plaza Cafebar saying that the rent would be abated for the first two years.

A second side letter  which Lindat alleges is invalid  waived the obligation to pay rent, service charges, insurance and other outgoings, with a 50pc cut to initial rent even if business started to trade, the judge said.

After serving a notice of forfeiture, Lindat re-entered and took possession of the pub premises on August 29, 2023, said the judge.

The following day it asked the lessee to transfer and deliver the publicans licences and restaurant certificates.

It applied to the District Court in September 2023 to transfer the licence into its name but, unbeknown to it, the next day PW Plaza Cafebar applied to the Revenue Commissioners for the licence to be renewed in its name.

In November 2023, the District Court certified that Lindat was entitled to receive the licence.

Lindat issued its High Court proceedings last January, seeking orders for the licence transfer.

In his ruling, Mr Justice Nolan dealt with Lindats pre-trial request for a temporary injunction  requiring the return of the licence  pending the determination of the full dispute.

The judge said he was troubled by the creation of the second side letter, which seemed to have come into existence by subterfuge.

He said it appeared to have been an attempt to bind any new owners of the shares of Lindat with an agreement not to seek rent, rates or other charges for an indefinite period in circumstances where a lenders permission was required but not obtained.

He was persuaded that, even if it transpires that Lindat is unsuccessful following a full trial of the issues, PW Plaza Cafebar will be able to seek damages.

He found there was a Mexican standoff with PW Plaza Cafebar unlawfully holding the licence to prevent Lindat from re-letting the premises.

In those circumstances, the least risk of harm rested with granting the orders sought.
A farmer has been ordered by the High Court to remove a milking parlour he built without planning permission by September 19.

Patrick Furlong must cease milking operations by July 21 and in the meantime his herd must be moved to another farm with a lawful milking facility, Mr Justice Garret Simons ruled.

Mr Furlong built the parlour and associated works, including slurry storage and parlour washing tanks, at his 24.7-acre farm in Gurteen, Templeshambo, Co Wexford in 2020. It had been a dry stock farm prior to this.

Wexford Co Council served warning and enforcement notices in 2020 requiring him to cease the unauthorised development and restore the lands to their previous condition.

Mr Furlong then made a retention application but it was refused on grounds including that he had not demonstrated there was sufficient effluent storage capacity on the site and it was not clear the development would comply with the Nitrates Directive which is aimed at protecting water from pollution from agricultural sources.

The council also refused it on grounds that the entrance created a traffic hazard and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

Mr Furlong's neighbour, Stephen McCann, lodged an appeal with An Bord Pleanala arguing there were additional reasons the retention application should have been refused. Mr McCann later withdrew his appeal after there was no other appeal from Mr Furlong himself.

Mr Furlong put in a second retention application which was also refused on the same grounds along with an additional ground relating to the assessment of the effects of the development on the environment.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - June 19th

Mr Furlong did not appeal that decision but instead put in a third retention application. This, however, was rejected by the council as invalid as it said the application would have triggered the requirement for an appropriate assessment for the purposes of the Habitats Directive.

Mr Furlong brought High Court judicial review proceedings over the decision 13 months ago but these are still pending.

His neighbour, Mr McCann, then brought enforcement proceedings in the Circuit Court which in April last year ordered the cessation of the unauthorised development and reinstatement of the lands. The court placed a stay of 12 months on the order.

Mr Furlong appealed that decision to the High Court which on Tuesday dismissed the appeal.

Mr Justice Simons said it would be inappropriate to put a stay on the orders to allow Mr Furlong an opportunity to make what would be a fourth attempt to obtain a form of retrospective development consent through what is known as substitute consent. "With respect, no developer is entitled to this level of indulgence," he said.

This was "a clear-cut case of unauthorised development", he said.

The public interest in upholding the integrity of the planning and development system demanded that flagrant breaches of the planning legislation not be allowed to continue unrestrained for years after enforcement proceedings have been instituted, he said.

While the fact that the orders will have "negative financial implications" for Mr Furlong was unfortunate, it cannot be a reason to defer making the orders, he said.

Those implications were the inevitable consequence of his own failure to comply with planning legislation and "his reckless decision to press on" in the teeth of the warning letter from the planning authority.

The cessation of the use and operation of the milking parlour and of other structures, as well as the cleaning out of the tanks, is to be done by midnight on July 21, he said.

This will allow time for the dairy herd to be transferred.

The removal of unauthorised structures and reinstatement of the lands is to be done by midnight on September 19, he said.

As Mr Furlong had represented himself in court, the judge said it should be explained to him that failure to comply with the orders would leave him liable to steps being taken to have him brought to court and committed to prison for contempt, he added.
Tipperary-born billionaire says the payments firm is in no rush to float

Stripe co-founder John Collison says employees at the online payments company will likely be allowed to cash in some of their shares in the future, as speculation continues to simmer over the companys eventual IPO.

Tipperary-born Mr Collison, who founded the jointly headquartered Irish-American company with his brother Patrick in 2010, said the move is a repeat of what it has done in recent times.

We did that last year, we did that this year, and well probably do it again in the future, he told Bloomberg Television.

Last year, Stripe processed payments in excess of a trillion dollars

To fund it may require further cash from the companys existing investors, as Stripe has done before.

The cash-out mechanism is seen as a way of rewarding employees in an industry where stock options are considered a valuable part of staff incentives.

Unlike publicly-quoted companies, Stripes private status means trading shares is less straightforward.

Mr Collison also said that, despite intense speculation about a possible stock market flotation, the company is in no rush to trigger an IPO.

He said many companies make the decision to go public too early.

We still see tons of opportunity to change and grow the business quite a lot, he said.

Instead of focusing on an IPO, Mr Collison said he remains focused on products.

We still see tons of opportunity to change and grow the business quite a lot

Stripe was founded in San Francisco where the firms biggest base remains. However, it counts its Dublin offices as a joint headquarters.

Stripe is currently valued at $65bn (60.5bn), which is up on recent valuations but below its high valuation of $95bn (88.5bn) in 2022.

It processed payments in excess of a trillion dollars (930bn) last year as online payments continued to grow.

The company, which is in competition with rivals such as Adyen, Braintree and PayPal, has a regular pipeline of deals with retail and commercial brands.

Earlier this month, it announced that the hotel group Accor had chosen Stripe as a payment provider. In Ireland, that includes hotel properties such as the five-star Carton House and the Ibis, Dublin.

In the US, Stripe also offers a range of financial products and services, including business loans, corporate credit cards and fraud prevention.
Eddie Murphy said it was not as easy reprising his role in the fourth installment of Beverly Hills Cop, three decades after the last film premiered.

The US actor first debuted as Detroit detective Axel Foley in 1984s Beverly Hills Cop, which saw him go rogue and travel to California to solve the murder of his childhood friend  before returning in the 1987 and 1994 sequels.

It felt like old man, Murphy quipped in an interview on the Today show in the US.

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I did Beverly Hills Cop when I was 21, and Im 63 now.

Now, I would rather not do any stunts. We were shooting something and the director said I want you to come out of this place and run down those steps.

After we shot he was like Can you come down with more urgency and faster and I was like No.

I was like Im not doing anything action, dont call me unless you offer me the same type of shit you would offer Morgan Freeman, Murphy joked.

In the fourth installment titled Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, which debuts on Netflix on July 3, Murphy returns to California after his daughter  played by Taylour Paige  is threatened.

Beverly Hills Cop stars Eddie Murphy, John Ashton and Judge Reinhold (Universal Images Group North America LLC/Alamy)

The film sees actors John Ashton and Edward Judge Reinhold reprise their roles as John Taggart and Billy Rosewood to help Murphys character uncover a potential conspiracy involving new character Captain Grant played by Kevin Bacon.

Murphy told Today presenter Al Roker the only way the film could happen was if all of us were in it.

The film also stars Murphys real-life daughter Bria Murphy, who arrests him in the film.
In season two of the BBCs Paranormal, Sian Eleri digs into what became Britains biggest ever mass sighting of UFOs

Sian Eleri goes in search of UFOs in Paranormal: The Village that Saw Aliens. Photo: BBC/Twenty Twenty Productions Ltd

New York, Los Angeles and Washington in Independence Day. Washington and Las Vegas in Mars Attacks!, San Francisco in the superior 1978 version of Invasion of the Body Snatchers.

There are some exceptions. Close Encounters of the Third Kind and E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial are both set in the suburban landscape of Steven Spielbergs childhood, while M Night Shyamalans Signs takes place in rural Pennsylvania.

British alien movies tend to be more cosy. The classic Village of the Damned, based on John Wyndhams novel The Midwich Cuckoos, and the well-regarded B-movie The Earth Dies Screaming are both set in the stereotypical sleepy, leafy English countryside.

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If aliens really did decide to pay Britain a visit, would it be a surprise if they avoided London (all that traffic!) and picked somewhere like, say, a village on the west coast of Wales?

In the second season of Paranormal (BBC3, Thursday & Friday, June 20 & 21), subtitled The Village That Saw Aliens, BBC Radio presenter and journalist Sian Eleri digs into what became Britains biggest ever mass sighting of UFOs.

It all began in 1977, when 14 boys from the local primary school in the village of Broad Haven reported seeing a UFO in the school grounds. The natural assumption  that it was a mischievous prank or a case of mass hysteria  was undermined when the boys were separated and asked to draw a picture of what theyd seen.

Eleri is a committed non-believer. Photo: BBC/Twenty Twenty Productions Ltd

All the drawings depicted the same thing: a cigar-shaped object with a dome and a red light on top. On top of that, there was the fact that the boys seemed to be genuinely terrified by the experience.

The story made headlines around the world. Kids of that age have vivid imaginations, yet theyre usually terrible actors and struggle to maintain a lie for any length of time. Notably, none of them ever recanted the story.

Eleri is a committed non-believer. It has to be a load of rubbish, she confidently declares before heading off to Broad Haven, a popular holiday spot whose lovely beaches make it a magnet for surfers. By the end of four entertaining half-hour episodes, however, her scepticism is a little less solid.

One person who believed the boys from the start was Randall Jones Pugh, a local veterinarian and UFO investigator. He died more than 20 years ago, but his daughter Helen has held onto his files on the case.

Its a huge collection, comprising box after box of notes and newspaper clippings, cans of film and a projector, and a VHS recording of Jones Pugh being interviewed on TV.

He tells the interviewer: I can give you every assurance that if the public knew precisely what the presence of UFOs means, they would literally run for their lives.

Ufology took over Jones Pughs life. He became obsessed, to the point of contacting the Pentagon

Ufology took over Jones Pughs life. He became obsessed, to the point of contacting the Pentagon. At some point, though, he seems to have been spooked into abandoning his work. Helen has a feeling he received a visit from someone in authority that was enough to scare him off investigating further.

He did start to pull back from it all, she says. He decided this wasnt what he wanted to get involved in.

Many of the boys who claim to have seen the UFO are still living in or near Broad Haven. One of them, Phil Rhys, whos happy to talk to Eleri yet doesnt want to appear on screen, tells her he now believes the UFO may have been an aircraft, possibly top-secret, from one of the many military bases studded along the Welsh coast.

He points her in the direction of another of the boys, David Davies. Now living in Swansea, he insists what they saw wasnt any kind of military craft. Davies has clearly suffered trauma from it all. He says he was horribly bullied, including physically, in secondary school. He wouldnt give in and change his story, though.

Where the series gets really interesting when Eleri, digging into declassified Ministry of Defence files, learns that hundreds of adults, a few of whom she tracks down here, also reported seeing strange craft and fast-moving orbs of light along the Welsh coast from the mid-70s to the early-80s.

Whether you believe in UFOs or think its all hooey, this is a thoroughly enjoyable little series.
The EU accounts for more than half the roughly $6 billion worth of pork China imported in 2023. Image: Getty.

China has opened an anti-dumping investigation into imported pork and its by-products from the European Union, a step that appears mainly aimed at Spain, the Netherlands and Denmark, in response to curbs on its electric vehicle exports.

The investigation announced by China's commerce ministry on Monday will focus on pork intended for human consumption, such as fresh, cold and frozen whole cuts, as well as pig intestines, bladders and stomachs. The probe will begin on June 17.

It was prompted by a complaint submitted by the China Animal Husbandry Association on June 6 on behalf of the domestic pork industry, the ministry said.

Following the European Commission's June 12 announcement that it would impose anti-subsidy duties of up to 38.1% on imported Chinese cars from July, global food companies have been on high alert for retaliatory tariffs from China.

Spain is the top supplier of pork to China and its pork producers group Interporc said they would fully cooperate with the investigation by Chinese authorities.

"The EU and China have plenty of time to reach agreements," Interporc said in a statement.

European pork producers should be able to keep exporting to China tariff-free while the investigation is underway, pending a decision and a tariff announcement by the Chinese side.

China's commerce ministry said that the investigation should be completed by June 17, 2025, but could be extended by another six months if required.

Lobby group Danish Agriculture& Food Council warned on Monday that the country's pork sector would be "hit incredibly hard" by any restrictions on sales to China.

Pork suppliers from South America, the United States and Russia could be among those gaining market share if Beijing restricts imports from the European Union.

China's state-backed Global Times newspaper first reported late last month that Chinese firms planned to ask authorities to open an anti-dumping investigation into some European pork products, citing an unidentified "business insider".

That was followed by a second report in the same outlet on June 8 requesting officials look into European dairy imports.

Chinese authorities have previously hinted at possible retaliatory measures through state media commentaries and interviews with industry figures.

A spokesperson for the European Commission said the bloc was not worried about China opening its investigation and told reporters the EU would intervene appropriately to ensure the investigation complied with all relevant World Trade Organisation rules.

The EU accounts for more than half the roughly $6 billion worth of pork China imported in 2023, according to customs data, around a quarter of which was from Spain alone.

Second- and third-ranking, the Netherlands and Denmark last year exported to China pork products worth $620 million and $550 million respectively.

China's commerce minister Wang Wentao earlier this month travelled to Spain to court officials ahead of the Commission announcing its decision on whether Chinese electric vehicle producers benefit from distortive state subsidies.

"It will not be the first time that a probe announced in one jurisdiction is responded to in kind, so in view of the EU electric vehicles probe, this is not a surprise," Jens Eskelund, president of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, said.

"Free and open markets rely on rules-based trade practices," he added.

Growing alarm over Chinese industrial overcapacity flooding the EU with cheap products, including EVs, is opening a new front in the West's trade war with Beijing, which began with Washington's import tariffs in 2018.

EU trade policy is turning increasingly protective against the global ramifications of China's production-focused, debt-driven development model.

Governments typically place anti-dumping duties on imported goods when they suspect the item in question is being sold for less than it cost to produce in order to protect domestic firms.

Reuters
Graham Norton unveiled the special plaque on a bridge over the River Bandon to commemorate those who died during the recent pandemic

Chat show king Graham Norton (61) has unveiled a special memorial to all those who lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He admitted his mother would never have forgiven him if he didn't personally support the poignant initiative by a cross-generational arts group in his native West Cork.

The BBC star, a native of Bandon, unveiled the special plaque on a bridge over the River Bandon which aims to commemorate all those who died during the height of the pandemic between 2020 and 2023.

Looking tanned and relaxed, the broadcaster and author admitted he loved being back in West Cork for the summer.

"Is there anywhere nicer to be when the sun is shining," he said.

Unveiling of the plaque

During his speech, Mr Norton stressed that cherished memories of loved ones and favourite places can offer comfort in the darkest of times.

He said the trauma of the pandemic was such that it was understandable if some people simply didn't want to be reminded of it.

"Some people don't want to think about it again. I don't know who mentioned the Spanish flu but you can see why there wouldn't be memorials. Even now, when you see those two metres apart things on the supermarket floor, it sends a shudder through you standing in the queue for your groceries.

"But we must remember. Particularly younger people and older people who were disproportionately affected. Young people lost out on learning social skills and soaking up all the world has to offer and older people felt lonely and isolated.

"So it is terrific to see this being memorialised today with this beautiful artwork. It is in memory, I guess, of what we all went through, what we sacrificed and the people and things we lost.

"I want to say a special congratulations to Creative Bandon and all the older people and Transition Year students who took part in this. I am thrilled to be here to unveil this," he added.

Graham Norton with the plaque

The theme of the memorial is Light to Dark  Womb to Light, Every Spring Rebirths. Carved from Kilkenny stone, the plaque revolves around the everyday activities that helped people through the first global pandemic in over a century.

While inspired by Irish families, the plaque commemorates all of the almost seven million people who died globally in the four years of the pandemic.

It is the third major monument unveiled in Bandon by the TV star with a special riverside walk previously named in his honour.

While based in London, the broadcaster has a holiday home in Ahakista which he admitted is now his "dream getaway".

Mr Norton has been adopted as an Ahakista local by the community and each year supports local community and charity initiatives.

He so adores West Cork that he chose Bantry as the venue for his wedding two years ago to his long-time partner, Jonathan 'Jono' McLeod.

The presenter, who is reputed to be worth 30m thanks to the success of his TV and radio shows as well as his novels, has made no secret of how important the area is to him.

Large parts of his latest novel, Frankie, which will be published on September 12, were written in the area.

Mr Norton previously opted to broadcast his hit Virgin Radio show from C103FM's West Cork studios over the summer rather than travel to London.

He is also an ardent supporter of local events ranging from the West Cork Literary Festival to the Fastnet Film event.

His table quiz at Ahakista Summer Festival annually sees tickets sell out in a matter of minutes with thousands of overseas fans desperate for tickets to attend.

Even his hit novel Holding, set in the fictional Irish village of Dunkeen, was filmed on location in Drimoleague and Castletownshend for ITV.

A keen oenophile, Mr Norton uses West Cork parties and gatherings to trial his hugely successful range of branded wines from New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Italy.

Despite his love of the areas laid back lifestyle, the star admitted his successful career means that London will be his base for the foreseeable future.

I like my job as it is. I love the show and the way people have supported it. So I dont think I will be coming back here (Ireland) to work permanently. But I spent a lot of time in West Cork as it is.

I spent a lot of the summer here and, when I eventually retire, I will definitely spend a lot more time here, he said.
Egypt's non-oil exports from January to May 2024 reached $16.5 billion, up from $15.4 billion in the same period of 2023, marking a 9.8 percent increase, Minister of Trade and Industry Ahmed Samir stated on Tuesday.

Minister Samir said Egyptian exports achieved a monthly hike of $3.5 billion in May, marking the strongest performance for the country's exports in a single month.

The largest markets for Egyptian exports during this period included Saudi Arabia with $1.391 billion worth of goods, Turkey with $1.31 billion, the UAE with $1.133 billion, Italy with $974 million, and the US with $904 million, according to Samir.
Children's Minister Roderic OGorman first to declare his candidacy Ossian Smyth TD rules himself out of leadership race and endorses junior minister Pippa Hackett - but would like to be deputyGreen Party Senator Pauline O'Reilly also endorses Pippa HackettMinister Of State Joe O'Brien said that he was "going over" the possibility of running

Eamon Ryan: 'I intend stepping down as the leader of the Green Party'

The Green Party has been thrown into chaos as its senior leaders abandoned the party just over a week after they received a drubbing in the local and European elections.

In a day of high political drama yesterday, Eamon Ryan and Catherine Martin both announced they would be stepping down as the party scrambled to find a new leader ahead of the general election.

The most likely successors are believed to be Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman, super junior minister Pippa Hackett and junior minister Ossian Smyth.

Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman was first to declare his candidacy on Wednesday morning.

Pippa Hackett has received two public endorsements from party colleagues already this morning.

Ossian Smyth TD ruled himself out of leadership race and endorsed junior minister Pippa Hackett on RTE Radio Ones Morning Ireland. He said he would like to be her deputy leader.

Green Party Senator Pauline O'Reilly also endorsed Pippa Hackett, speaking to the Irish Independent.

Last night, the Green Party executive set in motion plans for a three-week leadership contest, which would see the campaign extend until near the Dail recess on July 11.

Mr Ryan (60) announced he was stepping down as leader of the party outside Government Buildings yesterday. It is time to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders, he said during an emotional speech.

The long-serving Green TD cited family commitments, including caring for his son, who has special needs, and also highlighted the vile statements on social media about his late father and the relentless attacks on social media as reasons for stepping down as leader.

Mr Ryan insisted the results of the recent local and European elections were not the reason for his departure and said he made his mind up about quitting some months ago.

His spokesperson later said he informed Green Party deputy leader Catherine Martin of his intentions to step down in the last few months. Four years ago, Ms Martin challenged Mr Ryans leadership weeks after he led the Green Party into government for the first time in a decade with a record number of Dail seats.

She narrowly lost out to Mr Ryan but he kept her on as deputy leader.

However, Ms Martin shocked colleagues yesterday afternoon when she announced on Instagram that she would not be contesting the leadership.

The message was posted from Miami where Ms Martin is currently on a state visit.

At this point in time, I will not be putting myself forward for the leadership contest. I will also step back as deputy leader, she said. I look forward to supporting the new leadership of the party. We are fortunate to have such an extremely talented party membership.

The Indo Daily: Who will replace Eamon Ryan as leader of the Green Party?

A Green Party source described Mr Ryan and Ms Martin as the Bonnie and Clyde of the Greens and said their decision to step aside will allow for a new generation to come through and take charge of the climate change agenda.

Last night, there were discussions among members of the Greens parliamentary party about coming together to publicly support a new leader who is based outside Dublin. The party has never had a leader from outside the capital.

Junior Minister for Land Use and Biodiversity Pippa Hackett is being viewed by a group of party members as someone who could represent the views of Green members outside of Dublin.

Ms Hackett was appointed to the Cabinet from the Seanad by Mr Ryan when the Coalition was formed in 2020. A Green Party source said: Several of the parliamentary party members have been coming together to support a non-Dublin leader and will [them] back publicly.

However, much will depend on the intentions of Mr OGorman and Mr Smyth who are both based in Dublin. Neither has yet publicly signalled whether they will contest the election. 

In his exit address, Mr Ryan said one of his biggest regrets was that a narrative developed under his leadership that the Greens are not concerned about rural Ireland and are not connected with normal people.

He also took aim at social media, saying it felt like his party was subjected to co-ordinated attacks in the comments section following any posts they made about the Green agenda.

Departing Green Party leader Eamon Ryan (left), with Taoiseach Simon Harris (centre) and Tanaiste Micheal Martin. Photo: PA

Ive decided to ignore the worst comments, even when it included vile statements about my recently deceased father some five years ago. The level of invective has only increased, especially in the last year, and I think it poisons the well of public thinking about our agenda and not just our party, he said.

Mr Ryan said you could despair about the future of our democracy if you were just to live in that algorithm-driven, polarising, online world.

However, I am so hopeful about what is to come next.

Mr Ryan said he cannot continue to work the long hours that being a public representative involves and decided to step down as he has parenting commitments at home.

We have a son with special needs who also requires my attention. My wife, Victoria White, has been my greatest support and inspiration  I want to thank her and all my family and friends who have been at my side at all times. I will do everything I can to protect the future success of our party, he added.
Jack Chambers has risen through the ranks to become at 33 the first deputy leader of Fianna Fail since the resignation of Dara Calleary in 2020.

Just eight years ago, he was baby of the Dail  the youngest TD at age 25 following his first general election success in Dublin West.

Born in Galway in 1990, his family moved to Dublin when he was a child and he grew up in the Castleknock area. His father Frank and mother Barbara are both natives of Mayo  Frank works as a consultant at the Mater Hospital.

Educated at Belvedere College, he went on to study at Trinity College Dublin where he earned a degree in law and politics. Though he interrupted his education to focus on his political career, Mr Chambers later graduated from the Royal College of Surgeons and has been a qualified medical doctor since 2020.

Mr Chambers father was a Fianna Fail party activist and a close friend and political ally of the late Brian Lenihan. Jack Chambers reopened the constituency office closed in Dublin 15 following Mr Lenihans death in 2011 and in the 2014 local elections, topped the poll in the Castleknock LEA to become a councillor aged just 23.

Jack Chambers has been appointed as Fianna Fails deputy leader

He was deputy mayor of Fingal from 2015 until he was elected to the Dail and resigned his council seat. In 2018, Mr Chambers was one of a number of Fianna Fail TDs to call for a No vote in the abortion referendum on the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution.

In an interview in 2022, he said his position on abortion had evolved and he now supported women being able to get terminations up to 12 weeks of pregnancy in all circumstances.

Since being re-elected to the Dail in 2020, Mr Chambers has held a number of minister of state roles. He was junior minister in the Finance Department for just two weeks before moving up to become Government Chief Whip until 2022  he was also a Minister of State for Sport and the Gaeltacht and in the Department of Defence.

Following Leo Varadkars 2022 reshuffle, he was moved to become Minister of State at both the Department of Transport and the Department of the Environment.

In January of this year, Mr Chambers came out as gay. In a post on Instagram, he said: As I look forward to 2024 I am sharing with you something a little different but its something I wanted to do for a while.

As a politician it can sometimes be difficult to speak about my own personal life and that can lead to things drifting.

However, Its important for me to be true to myself firstly  and to you all in my public service role. I am starting 2024 by telling you all that I am proud to say that I am gay.
Taoiseach Simon Harris has described personal attacks aimed at Eamon Ryan as downright unethical following his move to step down as leader of the Green Party.

A new Green Party leader to replace Mr Ryan is expected to be named on July 8, following a meeting of the Green Partys executive committee on Wednesday night.

The partys executive committee proposed an expedited leadership contest after Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman and Junior Biodiversity Minister Pippa Hackett announced their candidacies.

Mr Harris said Mr Ryan is a very decent human being and he believes he is a good politician too.

"I can disagree with Eamon on points of policy, and he can disagree with me on points of policy, but in many ways he's a textbook example for people about how you can be passionate and a politician of conviction and not be rude and not be toxic and not feel hatred, he said on Thursday.

"So I think Eamon has embodied that. And even when he has faced those sort of personal attacks on occasion, he's never responded to them.

There is a difference between a joke and a bit of satire. And then there is a point where people seek to demonize a human being. Eamon Ryan is a very good man. Eamon Ryan is a person who has a family. Eamon Ryan has served his country well. And there are politicians in government and politicians in opposition, many of whom I agree with, some of whom I fundamentally disagree with.

One thing I would take some heart from, actually, is in the recent days, since Minister Ryan has made his decision to step down as leader of the Green Party, not yet to step down from politics, the amount of people who have come out and recognized the positive contribution that he has made, whether they agree or disagree, he is a politician of impact, a contributor.

Taoiseach Simon Harris (Brian Lawless/PA)

This comes as the Green Party said nominations for the forthcoming leadership contest can be submitted from 9am Thursday until 9pm on Monday. The name or names of those seeking to become leader will be made public on the morning of Tuesday, June 25.

Ms Hackett was the first to receive public endorsements from Senator Pauline OReilly and junior minister Ossian Smyth.

However, it was Mr OGorman who announced his candidacy first with a social media video setting out his history with the party.

His post was followed by endorsements from parliamentary party colleagues including Malcolm Noonan, Marc O Cathasaigh, Patrick Costello and Joe OBrien. He also received the backing of several councillors.

Ms Hacketts supporters insisted the party needed its first leader from outside Dublin because all previous leaders were from the capital.

Throughout the day the Offaly senator received further support for her campaign from rural Green TDs Brian Leddin and Steven Matthews.

In his first public appearance as a candidate, Mr OGorman said he had never been afraid of hard work as he laid out his stall for becoming the next Green Party leader.

Speaking to RTEs News At One, he said he had progressed major pieces of legislation during his time in the Cabinet and had the experience and vision to lead the party.

He said the party had delivered in government but said small parties take a hit in government, but that hit is worth it if you are able to deliver real change.

The Green Party leader candidates: Pippa Hackett and Roderic OGorman in profile

Its all very well for parties on the progressive left to argue about change, but you have to take the risk of going into government  and we saw that risk two weekends ago when we did lose seats. We did lose good people.

Small parties, they take a hit in government but that hit is worth it if you are able to deliver real change.

In response to the argument that the party now needs a leader from rural Ireland, Mr OGorman said the party had done a lot of work for those rural communities in terms of broadband, transport and the diversification of income streams for farmers. He added that the idea the Green message was not resonating must be addressed by the party.

Mr OGorman also defended his role in advocating for a Yes-Yes vote in the family and care referendums on behalf on the Government.

I and the rest of [the] Government made the case. The electorate didnt accept the case that we made. They didnt see the urgency of the changes. They didnt see, they didnt believe that the changes would be as significant as we argued and they gave us the answer.

I was disappointed but I accept in a referendum people have a binary choice and they made the choice not to make those particular changes, he said.

He added he had listened to groups and disability rights organisations on the importance of ratifying the optional protocol to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

Appearing on Newstalks The Hard Shoulder, Ms Hackett said she would be putting her name forward and that her different life experiences could make the party relevant and relatable.

She said the party needed a fresh start, which she believed she could offer.

Im not your conventional Green. I live in rural Ireland. Im a beef and sheep farmer. I am also a mother and have also been a cabinet minister for the past four years.

The party has never had a non-Dublin leader, weve never had a woman lead the party and I believe my different perspective and my different life experiences can make the Green Party relevant inside and outside of Dublin.

Asked later on RTEs Drivetime about her chances of winning a Dail seat in Offaly in the next general election, or in a by-election following Barry Cowens move to Europe, Ms Hackett said there was no safe seat for the Green Party outside of Dublin.

That is exactly the problem we have with the party. Right now, there is no safe seat outside of Dublin to be honest.

And like many of my colleagues, I will be in the mix for a seat in Offaly, as will other colleagues across the country. And I think therein lies the problem  if we have any couple of safe seats, they are going to be in Dublin.
Greens to rebuild trust in rural Ireland - Pippa Hackett



Announcing her candidacy, Senator Pippa Hackett said one of her focuses as leader would be to rebuild trust in the Green Party in communities across the country, particularly in rural Ireland.





In her own county of Offaly though, she had her work cut out for her, if the recent local election results are anything to go by.





During the elections, the party was wiped out and now has no representatives on the council, after the Greens three candidates secured just 807 number one votes between them across the county.





After her election to the Seanad in 2019, Ms Hacketts husband Mark Hackett was co-opted into her council seat.



However, he failed to retain his seat after receiving just 270 first preference votes in the Edenderry local electoral area and was eliminated on count 4 after receiving 380 votes after transfers.





The Green Party had one candidate in each of the three areas in Offaly and the other two candidates did not fare much better.

In the Tullamore LEA, Liam Walsh received 394 first preference votes while in the Birr LEA Ekaterina Koneva received 143 first preference votes.



Mr Walsh and Ms Koneva were excluded after count 3 and 4 respectively, ending the party's chances to have a presence at county council level.
The transfer of 350,000 from the account of a charity that helps jockeys to the bank account of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) was an isolated incident, an Oireachtas committee will hear.

On Thursday, representatives from Horseracing Ireland and the IHRB will appear before the Public Accounts Committee where the financial governance matter will be discussed.

Last year, a bombshell was dropped at the PAC hearing when it emerged a financial matter had been identified at the organisation.

During that committee meeting in June 2023, members were told the chief financial officer of IHRB Donal OShea was on a voluntary period of leave and did not appear before the committee with IHRB colleagues at that time.

In his opening statement, Darragh OLoughlin, CEO of IHRB will tell committee members the board became aware on June 28 last year of an issue relating to financial governance which happened early in 2022.

The issue concerned a transfer of 350,000 which was made in January 2022 from the Jockeys Emergency Fund, a charity bank account administered by the IHRB, to the IHRBs bank account, Mr OLoughlin will tell the committee.

However, the CEO says the transaction was reversed in April 2022.

The Jockeys Emergency Fund is a registered charity that supports jockeys who suffer permanent total paralysis due to an injury while taking part in a race.

Mr OLoughlin says this issue was immediately disclosed to the Minister for Agriculture, as well as the Comptroller and Auditor General and to Horse Racing Ireland (HRI).

The audit firm Mazars was hired by the IHRB to undertake an independent review of this and other financial governance matters, Mr OLoughlin will tell the committee.

The investigation began in August 2023 and Mazars looked at six years worth of finances as well as other records and interviewed relevant individuals.

Pending receipt of the Mazars report, the auditors examined banking transactions for the financial year 2022 and confirmed that the highlighted transfer of 350,000 was an isolated incident, according to Mr OLoughlins opening statement.

The final report is expected to be delivered by Mazars soon and Mr OLoughlin says it is the intention of the IHRBs directors to publish its findings.

While Mr OLoughlin says the recommendations will be acted on, formal agreements are being put in place between IHRB and the various charitable and non-profit entities for which administrative support is provided.

This will involve strict transaction approval controls and the segregation of access to accounts.

Representatives from HRI will also come before PAC tomorrow.

In her opening statement, Suzanne Eade, Chief Executive of HRI will tell the committee that the organisation was deeply disgusted and appalled by the abuse of horses documented by RTEs Prime Time.

The behaviour depicted was abhorrent and is absolutely not the experience of those working directly in the Irish horse racing and breeding industry.

We welcome the swift response from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

We will fully support any Gardai and Department of Agriculture investigation, and we eagerly await their conclusion, Ms Eade will say in her opening statement.
The University of Limerick (UL) has indicated people may still be held to account for recent controversies at the college.

In a video message to staff on Monday, chancellor Professor Brigid Laffan confirmed former president Professor Kerstin Meys appointment to a new professorship role came about following mediation.

Prof Mey had been on extended sick leave since March.

Her position leading the university was deemed untenable during that time due to a financial and governance crisis following an overpayment for 20 homes on the outskirts of Limerick city.

Staff and students said they had lost confidence in her leadership.

Prof Laffan told staff a change at the top of the university creates certainty for the college.

However, staff have been angered by the appointment.

They questioned whether Prof Mey could now be held accountable for her role in a controversial overspend on 20 homes near ULs campus, asked why her new job was not advertised and complained about a lack of transparency just weeks after Prof Laffan heralded the beginning of a new era of openness.

Several sources told the Irish Independent they would have liked to see UL wait until after a Higher Education Authority (HEA) review of the university and its affairs has been concluded before any structural changes were implemented.

Prof Laffan said filling the vacant president role will be discussed in the coming weeks.

This is an extremely important decision for UL in terms of both the timing and the design of the academic search process, Prof Laffan said.

I have been reminded that I spoke of the importance of accountability when I addressed you in the Concert Hall on March 28. I want to say to you now that nothing has been done or will be done to alter that position. The reputation of this institution, and all that it stands for, is bigger than any position, any project, or any person  without exception.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - June 19th

Prof Mey will take up her new role from September 1, but professors at the university questioned what she will teach. Her area of expertise is in visual art, but UL has no courses in such.

University presidents typically have a substantive post they can step in to after their terms end. Prof Meys 10-year tenure began in 2021.

Full details of her new role have not yet been made public. She first joined the university in 2018 as a vice-president and professor of visual culture.

Provost Professor Shane Kilcommins will continue to lead the university on an interim basis, Prof Laffan said.

She also confirmed a cultural review of the university is being carried out by consultants Mazars at the HEAs request.

This is expected to conclude around the same time as the HEAs separate statutory review of UL spending and governance. This is being overseen by Deloitte.

When the governing authority receives the reports Ive just referred to, it will be our job to ensure that all issues identified, whether individual or systemic, are addressed properly, Prof Laffan added.

The HEA review was sparked following ULs 12.56m spend on 20 homes in Rhebogue.

The houses have been valued at about half that amount. They currently house students, despite not having planning permission to do so.
Bali is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but budget-friendly once you get there. JJ Clarke shares his tips...

When I stepped off the airplane, a rush of humidity hit me in the face.

I felt a mix of excitement and the unknown. This was my first trip to Bali, and the Southeast Asian island would prove different from any destination Ive ever visited, from culture to cost.

Here are my top tips to get the most out of your trip.

Getting around

The traffic situation is a wonderful chaos. Drivers dont react to signage or red lights, but somehow, it all seems to work. Masses of scooters move like a murmuration of birds at intersections - fluidly, unbothered by the helter-skelter situation.

Youll soon get used to the Bali beep, too.

In Bali, no one beeps in anger, was something I heard often. Its a short, sharp sound - the rider lets their finger slip over the button, so a millisecond of a noise is emitted. It means: Im coming up on your inside; or: Watch out, Im about to overtake.

Scooters in Canggu, Bali. Photo: Agunng Parameswara / Getty

Most hostels and hotels offer scooters that you can rent - most charge 100,000 Indonesian Rupiah (5.70) per day. There are many unofficial petrol stations where petrol is doled out in glass bottles; a full bottle will cost 20,000 (1.14). Two bottles will last you two days in discovery mode.

Note that you need an international driver's license to drive on the island, and this is not optional. As for taxis, a ride in a car is cheap but the back of a scooter is much cheaper. You can hail these on the Grab app, or Gojek and Maxim (the latter is the cheapest option, widely used by the Balinese).

Helmets are compulsory in Bali, even if you mightnt believe it when you see a family of five crammed onto a tiny scooter. Most taxi drivers will offer a helmet (you can just select another driver if they dont). A word of warning: tourists are more likely to get stopped by police for not wearing helmets than their Balinese counterparts. Even if you are the slowest and safest driver in the world, it pays to play it safe.

It can be both thrilling and terrifying to sit on the back of a scooter in full flight. This begs the question: Do you hold on to the driver, or do you grab the little bar behind your bum? I held on to the driver's shoulders for dear life until midway through the trip when I felt confident enough to hold the bar behind me.

JJ surfing in Bali

Surfs up

Soon after travelling to Bali, I met a friend and headed straight to Dreamland beach. Surfboard rental is standardised in Bali, so dont be suckered by price. It is typically 50,000 Indonesian Rupiah (2.88 for two hours).

If you are a beginner like us, Dreamland is a bit sketchy  the waves are enormous. The following day we made our way to Kuta beach, which is a beach break (sand rather than reef underfoot). The great thing about Bali is that you can get lessons for next to nothing - for 14, a surf instructor will do a one-on-one lesson with you for two hours, giving you advice on when to paddle, when to slow down, which way to turn and so on. An important note is to find an instructor with good English.

If surfing is your thing, Bali Back in Black surf school in Kuta is the place to go (Insta: @balibackinblack, but get your bookings in early as they are popular. Early one morning we took off at 6.30am sharp in a Balinese Jukung (a type of boat used for ferrying surfers). It dropped us about 200m out to sea off the airport runway with crystalline waves rolling in.

My instructor Wayan Tama had perfect English and was able to give excellent feedback - a truly unique experience. However, note that this is a reef break  one of the waves rolled me up pretty good and I ended up kicking the serrated corral. The other surfers informed me that my cuts were known as Bali Tattoos. Lime juice and antiseptic were the remedy.

For surfing information, checkout surfindonesia.com. This website gives you comprehensive breakdowns of all Balis beaches; from wave size to weather conditions and even the best times to avoid tourists. Its an essential resource for a surfer.

Uluwatu Temple in Bali. Photo: Andrey Danilovich / Getty

A sunset dance

Im a bit of a philistine when it comes to cultural appreciation. My preference is to meet people, focus on activities and not over-schedule.

However, the Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple (about an hour south of Denpasar City) was worth it for me. Here, around 70 dancers reenact the Hindu religious story of Rama and Sita in a stone amphitheatre on the edge of a massive cliff. The dancers sing "ke-cak-ke-cak" in various tones and harmonise with tremendous effect. The time to see this is at sunset with a mesmeriing backdrop.

Book on kecakdancebali.com - the whole experience will set you back around 11. My two cents? Prebook a priority ticket as the queueing system leaves a lot to be desired. Standing in the stultifying heat waiting for the previous shows spectators to clear is avoidable.

Speaking of culture, it would be remiss of me not to mention the Balinese people  ever polite, smiling and chill. Sentences are often punctuated by laughter as if to invite you into their world, where your hectic European sense of time doesnt matter. Its refreshing to go to a place where English isnt a given and the locals often thought I was from Iceland rather than Ireland.

Popular travel destinations often give off a hate the tourists vibe, but I didnt feel this in Bali.

What to eat

Cuisine is where youll have a lot of fun in Bali. My recommendation? Nasi goreng. This is a delectable hodgepodge of rice, vegetables and some meat or prawns. A close second is Ayam Betutu - roast duck or chicken in a rich spicy sauce.

Then there is Bali coffee. A warning - this is unfiltered coffee with the bits left in. I didnt like it, so look out for those commercial barista coffee machines in cafes if you want a fancy coffee.

Rice paddies in Ubud

Yoga and waterfalls in Ubud

The final stop on my tour was the town of Ubud, a picturesque location known for its terraced rice patties, yoga and slower pace. I splashed on my last three nights and went for the most lavish hotel room. By this time, I had acclimatised to the low prices and was shocked to see its 28-per-night price tag. I then re-read the email receipt and realised it was 28 for the three nights.

All was well. Next, I visited the spectacular Tegenungan waterfall, where you can swim under it and grab a drink in the hotel beside.

Ubud is yoga central, and I went for a drop-in class at Intuitive Flow (intuitiveflow.com). The 90-minute class was 8.59 and was in a temple-like building with a view of a terraced valley.

Bartering and shopping

All supple after the yoga, I headed to the night market in Ubud where handmade furniture and masonry are the specialty. I was able to load up on presents for the family here, and I met a lady from Sydney who was filling a container with furniture and getting it shipped back home.

Im saving a bloody fortune, she enthused.

A word on bartering in the markets: take the price first offered and divide it by four. This is not a hard and fast rule, but it worked well for me. The sellers buy at cost and are happy to engage in this verbal dance.

Where to stay

Hostels can be hit or miss in Bali, but they are cheap (there were days when the shower didnt work, but sure thats what the ocean is for).

I used booking.com while on the ground in Bali, changing when a hostel wasnt up to scratch, and it worked seamlessly. You can go direct to the hotel/hostel  but the prices are so low that the margin that you will save is minimal. If you are going the hostel route and like the veneer of comfort, opt for a single room; the difference in price might be 5 for dorm rooms and 10 for a single room per night.

Indonesia was a Dutch colony up until 1949 but there are very few remnants of the past in this regard  or Dutch tourists for that matter. I met a lot of Russians, Germans and Australians on my travels.

Doni House and villas near Ubud can be found on booking.com and was sheer bliss. I highly recommend. It is built into a tiered valley and your bathroom looks out onto a steep ravine covered in forest. The houses are wooden - almost treehouse-like  but have all the modern creature comforts of air-con, fridge, TV and Netflix.

Bali weather and best time to travel

I like hot places and the weather was my style, but Balis climate may not be for everyone. The temperature was over 30 degrees every day I was there in May and, with high humidity, each day was a sticky one. May to October is Balis dry season and this is the best time to visit because you miss the monsoons from November to April.

The island is hilly too, so if you are thinking about elderly parents visiting, for example, you might like to warn them about the taxing heat. Balis dry season lasts from May to October and is the best time to take advantage of the islands beauty.

Uluwatu Temple. Photo: JJ Clarke

Get there & visas

Before you transit customs, all tourists staying for up to 30 days in Bali must purchase a visa on arrival (VOA), which works out at 28. You pay this as soon as your feet hit the ground, even before you get your bag from the carousel. This can be paid by card or in cash. You can pay for VOA online at https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id, but there are a lot of scam websites out there so I think its better not to risk it and pay in person.

My advice for flights is to fly as directly as possible and avoid the spaghetti-junction-cheap ways of getting there. They may save you upfront but can cost you in terms of time and energy in the long-term.

The quickest routes from Ireland to Dublin is probably via Doha with Qatar Airways. You can also go via London, with a straight shot from there to Bali with Singapore Airlines.

Before you go, check out bali.com for information on transport, hotels and tourist attractions.

If you are a surfer and want to get into the weeds about different breaks and where to go, check out this article from surfer.com.

Using the internet

For internet access, I used Vodafone's roaming for 5 extra a day for 500MB of data but this got pricey, and I was landed with a huge bill when I returned home  as some days, I exceeded my limit (you use maps on your phone for essentially everything). My friend was there for six weeks and bought an e-Sim for 20; this lasted him the entire time. He chose Telkomsel with 24GB.

Staring out the window of the plane home, I was left with a sense that there was more to be done  two weeks wasnt enough to experience what this little island has to offer.

Balis brilliance requires time. Ill give it more when I return next year.
I should have gone to my GP sooner, but I put it off because I knew it was MS  mum urges people with symptoms to seek help immediately
Aswan / Argeen  Authorities in Aswan, Egypt, have deported hundreds of Sudanese people last Wednesday, sending them back to the Argeen border crossing with Sudan. Entering Egypt legally has proven to be marred by several bureaucratic challenges, seen by some as a deliberate attempt to limit the influx of Sudanese refugees into Egypt.

According to deportees who spoke to Radio Dabanga and other sources, Aswan authorities turned back more than 16 buses carrying Sudanese people en route to Cairo. "Each bus carried an average of 60 passengers, including children, women, and the elderly."

The deportees reported facing harsh humanitarian conditions during the journey, with high temperatures and insufficient food and drink exacerbating their suffering. "Many among the deportees had chronic diseases or had recently undergone surgeries," stated a person who chose to remain anonymous for security reasons.

The reasons for the deportations are not yet known, as attempts to contact the Egyptian authorities in Aswan were unsuccessful. Sources suggested that the deportations might have been due to illegal entry into Egypt.

Around 500,000 people have fled Sudan to Egypt since the onset of war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in mid-April 2023, according to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). By April 27 of last year, more than 20 buses were arriving at the Argeen border crossing daily, a number that soon doubled.

Last April, Radio Dabanga reported that thousands of Sudanese refugees who escaped to Egypt have been detained by Egyptian authorities in a network of secret military bases and then deported back to their war-torn country, often without the chance to claim asylum.

Radio Dabanga reported last week that hospitals in Aswan received dozens of bodies of Sudanese people who died en route to the southern Egyptian city, many from scorching heat.

'Abuse of power'

Radio Dabanga spoke with Ashraf Roxy, a lawyer and human rights defender, about the situation of Sudanese refugees in Egypt. He explained that the number of Sudanese people registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as asylum seekers and refugees "increased six-fold in the period between April 15, 2023 and May 31, 2024.

"Unofficial estimates indicate that 600,000 Sudanese have entered Egypt, with 205,000 of them entering illegally." Roxy described the deportation measures reportedly taken by Egyptian authorities as an

"abuse of power".

"Although any country has the right to deport individuals who entered its territory illegally, even if this conflicts with the principle of 'non-refoulement' in international law, which is meant to protect those fleeing for their lives, seeking asylum is also a legal right."

He criticised the deportation of Sudanese who failed to register with the UNHCR. "If individuals cross the border irregularly and then surrender themselves to the authorities, they should not be penalised or deported, as they are exercising their right to seek asylum."

Bureaucratic challenges

While registration with the UNHCR theoretically prevents deportation, the long waiting periods, sometimes exceeding five months, complicate this. Additionally, obtaining proof of registration from the UNHCR, such as a document or a mobile phone message, can be delayed.

Roxy explained that the UNHCR "works throughout the week to register these large numbers, but the influx has caused significant delays". Despite the UNHCR reallocating staff to register incoming asylum seekers, those who arrived in late 2023 are still waiting for their appointments, according to the lawyer.

Another issue is the distance between Aswan and Cairo, where the UNHCR headquarters is located. This distance, about 960 kilometres, creates difficulties for Sudanese arriving in Aswan, as they may be stopped and asked for entry visas before reaching Cairo. "Without protection from the UNHCR, they are vulnerable to arbitrary deportation by Egyptian authorities," Roxy added.

Radio Dabanga also spoke to several Sudanese who recently entered Egypt without prior entry visas. Their identities are withheld for their safety. They reported that obtaining entry visas in a regular manner is nearly impossible, with waiting periods extending up to five months. The Egyptian consular authorities often refuse to grant visas to all family members, forcing those without visas to find alternative means to join their families.

Obtaining security approval for entry into Egypt is financially burdensome for many Sudanese. "There is an obligation to use EgyptAir to reach Egypt via Cairo Airport, which is unsuitable for those arriving by land", an anonymous source told Radio Dabanga.

Sudanese nationals are allegedly exposed to blackmail by employees in the relevant government agencies, according to testimonies obtained by Radio Dabanga. "This situation has opened the door to brokers and the necessity of paying bribes to complete procedures."

While Sudanese women, children, and elderly initially did not require a visa to enter Egypt, men aged 16 to 50 did*. This changed in June 2023 when Cairo required entry visas for all Sudanese nationals. Many opted for smugglers' routes to enter Egypt, leading to several deaths due to the lack of medical care.

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Reports indicate that the trade in forged Egyptian visas has flourished at the Argeen border crossing.

Accusations of corrupt practices have also emerged concerning UNHCR procedures. "Brokers facilitate and expedite registration processes for a fee, which many war-affected expatriates cannot afford."

Additionally, the UNHCR's insistence on having only one registration office in Cairo, with no outlet in Aswan, is perceived by some as collusion with Egyptian authorities' restrictive measures.

* In 2004, Egypt and Sudan signed the Four Freedoms Convention, allowing free movement of citizens between both "brotherly countries", as well as working and owning property with no special permit. Soon however, it became clear that Sudanese men between 18 and 50 years old still needed a visa to be able to enter Sudan. In 2018, the authorities in Cairo officially requested a restriction on the entry of Sudanese to Egypt. On June 10 last year, after more than 200,000 Sudanese had sought refuge in Egypt from the war, Cairo decided to oblige all Sudanese to obtain an entry visa.
Cork County Council is inviting applications from Irish traditional musicians for the position of Sliabh Luachra Musician in Residence. Pic: Shane Broderick

Cork County Council is inviting applications from Irish traditional musicians for the position of Sliabh Luachra Musician in Residence.

The area, which covers parts of Northwest Cork, East Kerry and West Limerick, is recognised nationally and internationally for its traditional Irish music, song, dance, poetry and culture.

The residency is supported by the Arts Offices of Cork County Council, Kerry County Council, Limerick City and County Council and The Arts Council. It is part of the Sliabh Luachra Music Trail project, a joint initiative to help develop, celebrate and promote the musical heritage of the region.

The residency aims to support performance, education and public awareness of the musical heritage of Sliabh Luachra by working with locally based musicians and cultural interest groups to develop opportunities for young people to learn and participate in the rich musical traditions of the area.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Frank OFlynn, said: The Musician in Residence programme demonstrates how, through positive collaboration between neighbouring councils, we can all work together to support music development, engagement with communities and arts practice in rural areas. As one of the greatest traditional music styles, Sliabh Luachra is known the world over.

Read more Muinefliuch NS blooms in Cork School Garden Competition 2024

"However, the practice of that great tradition in the Sliabh Luachra region is under pressure on many levels. This residency and the Music Trail project deliver on our commitment to support the musicians and organisations already working locally to preserve and promote the music of their areas, he added.

The initiative will help celebrate, preserve and promote Sliabh Luachra music and cultural heritage through a planned programme of activity.

Previous Musician in Residence, Eoin OSullivan from Newmarket had an energising impact within the region, working with local festivals, organising sessions and working to encourage young peoples interest in their local musical heritage.

Applicants should preferably be practicing musicians with a strong understanding and practice of the musical style and repertoire of this region.

Application forms and full details of the position are available at www.corkcoco.ie or by emailing Cork County Councils Arts Office at arts@corkcoco.ie.

The closing date for applications is 5pm on Wednesday, July 10.
The second annual festival will take place this weekend, with four seriously good bands taking to the towns stage on Saturday

Mundy gets the crowd going at last year's Macroom Music Festival. Photo by Peter Scanlan Photography

Ticket sales for this weekends Macroom Music Festival have been flying, with over 2,000 people from Cork and beyond expected to attend the three-day event.

This years festival will be headlined by early 90s rockers The Stunning and indie folk stars Hermitage Green, while White Horse Guitar and Rowan will also take to the stage in the towns square on Saturday evening.

The pubs of the town will be thronged on Friday night, with musicians and bands playing in each bar, while Macroom & District Lions Club will hold a Family Day at the Castle Grounds on Sunday.

Killian Lynch, chairperson of Macroom Music Festival, told The Corkman that the town is absolutely hopping in anticipation of the second annual edition of the event.

Tickets are flying, the weather is in our favour, what more can you ask for? Killian said.

Most importantly, we have four seriously good acts. Everyone is complimenting the lineup. Were expecting between 2,500 people here [on the Saturday] this year.

Killian said that the music festival was a reunion of sorts for locals last year, with people now seeing it as an event where they will meet old friends.

Last year, people met people they hadnt met in five or ten years, Killian said.

Its turning into a reunion thing, Oh I might meet you at the festival.

Killian said that the 2024 festival, which is organised by the local Business Association, will draw people from all over Ireland.

Last year a lot of people that bought tickets were from here and the surrounding hinterland, he explained.

This year we are seeing a lot of the tickets are being sold as far as Tipperary, west Kerry, Waterford, Cork, Ballincollig, west Cork and way up the country further.

Thats fantastic because it shows how the word has spread about it. Its only going to grow.
The facility has been opened in Charleville by Kerry Dairy Ireland, a division of Kerry Group

Pictured at the opening of the facility: Pat Murphy, CEO, Kerry Dairy Ireland, Minister Peter Burke, Tom Moran, Chairman of Kerry Group, Catherine Keogh, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Kerry Group, Minister Charlie McConalogue, Leo Clancy, CEO, Enterprise Ireland. Photo by Domnick Walsh

Sixty jobs are expected to be created in north Cork, following the opening of a new Cheestrings facility in Charleville.

The facility was opened last week by Kerry Dairy Ireland, a division of Kerry Group.

The expansion to the Kerry Group plant in Charleville represents a significant investment in the business supported by Enterprise Ireland and the Governments Capital Investment Scheme for the Processing and Marketing of Agricultural Products.

According to Kerry Group, the investment enhances production capacity by 50%, creating an additional 60 jobs locally and is a reflection of Kerry Dairy Irelands ambitious growth plans for the Cheestrings brand.

Kerry Group said that since its creation nearly 30 years ago, the Cheestrings brand has achieved major success, in becoming a feature of lunchboxes across the UK and Ireland. It is estimated that 17 Cheestrings are consumed every second, according to the company.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke TD said the opening of the facility represents a very significant milestone in the long and successful growth story of the globally recognised Cheestring brand.

This strategic investment into this world class facility was part financed by the Governments Capital Investment Scheme for the Agri Food processing sector. It is also supported under the EU Brexit Adjustment Reserve. This support ensures Kerry Dairy Ireland has the world-leading processing capabilities needed to continue to grow the brand globally while directly supporting the local economy here in Charleville through the creation of jobs, Minister Burke said.

Speaking at the opening of the facility, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue TD said that the Government established the capital investment scheme in recognition of the challenges faced by the sector and particularly its unique exposure to the impact of Brexit.

The scheme represents this Governments strong commitment to supporting investments like this Cheestrings manufacturing operation that will help underpin the Agri food sectors sustainable development in the future. Investment in new market development helps to bring benefits to all those along the supply chain particularly farmers, our primary producers, who are key contributors to our 16bn export sector of which our dairy exports account for over 6bn, Minister McConalogue said.

I welcome that this investment by Kerry in Cheestrings is aligned with the environmental sustainability requirements of the scheme reflecting the importance of showing that our dairy sector is committed to developing in an environmentally sustainable way. I congratulate Kerry on this project.

Pat Murphy, CEO of Kerry Dairy Ireland said that the companys investment in Charleville reflects its belief in the Cheestrings brand.

As we cut the ribbon today, our commitment to quality, innovation, and community remains steadfast and we look forward to Cheestrings continued success and expansion, Mr Murphy said.

Edmond Scanlon, CEO of Kerry Group said that Cheestrings has been a fantastic success story over the past thirty years, and a great example of an innovative healthy snack product for everyday consumption.

This new facility underpins the growth plans for Cheestrings, and demonstrates our businesss commitment to the locality, Mr Scanlon said.

Leo Clancy, CEO of Enterprise Ireland said that his organisation is committed to supporting companies like Kerry Dairy Ireland.

This state-of-the-art facility is a beacon of inspiration to other Irish food companies looking to innovate and we wish Pat and the team every success in growing the Cheestrings brand both here in Ireland and overseas, Mr Clancy said.
Bewley's Cafe on Grafton Street is hosting two stand-up comedy shows next month

Two stand-up comedians will take to the stage at Bewleys this summer, as part of an expanded offering from the iconic Grafton Street cafe.

Aideen McQueen and Paul Marsh, who will appear at the cafe on July 13 and 19, say they are looking forward to sharing some laughs in the historic location.

Last year, McQueen gave two sell-out performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and was nominated for Best Performer at the Dublin Fringe.

Aideen McQueen will perform her new show Projection on July 13 at Bewley's cafe

She has also performed at the Vodafone Comedy Festival, Electric Picnic, and Prague Comedy Festival, and describes her set as a comedy drama where Bridget Jones meets Baby Reindeer.

I cant wait to play Bewleys Theatre Cafe; its a legendary spot where the air is thick with drama and history, she said.

I am excited to crack jokes in a place where the coffee is as strong as the punchlines.

Paul Marsh, who works with Dublin Fire Brigade, first made a splash in the Irish comedy scene in 2011 when he won Irelands biggest newcomer competition at The Capital Comedy Club.

Paul Marsh will perform his 2024 show 999 problems for the final time before performing at the Edinburgh Fringe

He has since supported some of the countrys top comedians, including Neil Delamere, PJ Gallagher, and Karl Spain, and published a book of one-liners, Irish Dad Jokes, in 2022.

I remember going into Bewleys on trips to the city from Tipperary as a child, he said.

I never imagined Id be able to perform a set in this cornerstone of Dublin history and Im excited to help fill it with laughter.

Marsh will perform his show, 999 Problems, which he will then bring to the Edinburgh Fringe from August 1-12.

Bewleys is expanding its offerings this summer with afternoon tea, wine tastings, and upcoming theatre events.

Tickets (15) for the comedy gigs can be bought at the door or on Eventbrite and shows begin at 8.30pm
The inauguration of the first ever directly-elected Mayor of Limerick will take place in Limerick city on Friday, June 21.

Following his historic election, John Moran will receive Limericks ceremonial mayoral chain during a formal ceremony in front of invited guests at St. Marys Cathedral, the oldest building in Limerick City.

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The newly-elected Mayor of Limerick is extending an invitation to the public to join in the celebrations with festivities at Merchants Quay following the inauguration ceremony.

Mayor of Limerick John Moran said: The people of Limerick voted to make me Irelands first directly-elected mayor and I am answerable to them. It is fitting that the public have an opportunity to join in the celebrations as I officially take up the chains of office. Come and spend some time with me on inauguration day as we embark on this historic journey together.

The first meeting of the newly elected council will take place at the Council Chambers in Dooradoyle at 3pm following the inauguration celebration.

Limericks 40 elected councillors, including 10 newly elected councillors, will meet for the first time since the local elections took place on June 7.

Mayor Moran added: I believe Limerick can rival any region in Europe. I am looking forward to working with the elected councillors and the council executive over the next five years, to deliver a more liveable, ambitious and prosperous Limerick.

The direct election of a Mayor of Limerick with executive powers has created a unique dynamic in local government in Ireland.
Popular member of Sligo Central Library staff Joe Keaney retired last week with many tributes and well wishes

Joe Keaney has been praised for his kindness and helpfulness during his thirty years with the libary service in Sligo. Pic: Courtesy of Sligo Library.

Warm tributes were paid by friends and colleagues to Joe Keaney on his last day working in Sligo Central Library last Wednesday.

There was a small celebration and presentation in the library on Stephen Street for Joe who has been a stalwart of the library service, a welcoming face at the door, a friend to the public and staff alike for nearly 30 years.

Joe told The Sligo Champion that the 27 years spent in the Central Library were spent with a family.

So I am leaving one family and going back to my own family and I have some great memories of meeting people from all over the county over the years.

The library is a great place for meeting and I just loved doing that for the past 27 years. Joe (64) came to the library service first in 1997 when he got his lorry drivers licence after spending a number of years as a commercial traveller.

After driving with Securicor until November 1997, a combined job came up as a Mobile Library driver and Security Officer and Joe landed the job.

Joe Keaney has been praised for his kindness and helpfulness during his thirty years with the libary service in Sligo. Pic: Courtesy of Sligo Library.

It was a Schools Library van that visited all the schools twice a year and it was a big thing for the children and a bit of a relief for the teachers and we took a class at a time. I went with Frances Walsh an ex colleague and the children were so delighted to come up to the van and pick three books each.

It was great craic meeting the children and 14 or fifteen years later one of them who had grown into a young woman in her early 20s recognised me one time in Dublin and we had a coffee in Bewleys.

She said how much she enjoyed the mobile library as a child. Joe stayed on the van until 2007 and in the meantime he worked as a security man in the library as back then the Library held the priceless Jack B Yeats paintings which are now in The Model.

I was sitting beside the paintings and knew nothing about them until the late Alice Keaveney from Tubbercurry told me all about them.

She instilled a lot of knowledge into the boy from the borough which was Quay Street where we lived. Joe got an interest in art in those seven to eight years.

At one stage we had up to 14 paintings and some of them were worth up to 300,000 to 400,000 each. After that Joe was asked to go full time in the library and they needed a Superintendent for the building. There had been some anti-social behaviour at the back of the library and Joes innate people skills were important in dealing with this trying issue.

I was security in the library until now and I also gave out books and I helped wherever I could. On an average 350 people entered the library every day from Tuesday to Friday and on Saturday you were looking at 540 to 550 people in the library.

Joe Keaney

My one regret is that we were told many years ago that we would have a new library for Sligo within two to five years.

27 years later we dont have one and the Central Library is just not big enough and I feel sorry for County Librarian Donal Tinney and the staff who have worked so hard in the library.

We would have up to 9,000 books in the library and a lot of people still come to the library in big numbers.

I loved every minute of it and I loved to see the old people and the children coming into the library and the craic. I will miss the banter and the fun and I will miss the staff and the customers. We were like a family in the library and I am leaving that family and will be spending a lot more time with my own family.

And there are a few grandchildren there now to play with, said Joe who has been a big Sligo Rovers fan all his life, his nephew Jack Keaney a former player who is now with Drogheda after a spell with UCD.
This was The Beatles' last number one in Ireland.

1 The Ballad Of John And Yoko The Beatles

2 Dizzy Tommy Roe

3 My Sentimental Friend Hermans Hermits

4 Make Me An Island Joe Dolan

5 My Way Frank Sinatra

6 Get Back The Beatles with Billy Preston

7 Man Of The World Fleetwood Mac

8 The Boxer Simon and Garfunkel

9 Galveston Glen Campbell

10 Love Me Tonight Tom Jones

Its hard to believe today, but this chorus from The Beatles The Ballad Of John And Yoko resulted in some serious censorship in 1969:

Christ you know it aint easy

You know how hard it can be

The way things are going

Theyre gonna crucify me.

Several radio stations in the US, including major broadcasters WLS in Chicago and WABC in New York, refused to play the song because of the words Christ and crucify. In Australia, the word Christ was bleeped out when the song was played and in Spain The Spanish government under Franco objected to the track because of the phrase Gibraltar near Spain. The status of Gibraltar is a long-running subject of debate between Spain and the United Kingdom.

The Ballad Of John And Yoko holds a special place in Beatles history. It was the bands 17th UK number one and their final chart-topper for 54 years until last years Now And Then, John Lennons unfinished 1977 demo completed by Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr using overdubs and guitar tracks by the late George Harrison from an abandoned 1995 session.

In Ireland, this was The Beatles 13th and final number one. (U2 hold the record for most No. 1s here, with 19 in total).

John Lennon wrote the song while he and Yoko Ono were on their highly-publicised honeymoon in Paris. On his return, he took it to Paul McCartney at his home, eager to record the track. Though alarmed by the references to Christ, after the debacle over Lennons more popular than Jesus remarks in 1966, McCartney agreed to the session.

Neither Ringo Starr nor George Harrison were available for the recording, but Lennon and McCartney decided to go ahead without them. As noted by music critic Richie Unterberger, the seven-hour session has historical significance, producing probably some of the final tapes of Lennon and McCartney working closely together, alone.

The release was delayed to allow for The Beatles April 1969 single Get Back. The latter spent six straight weeks at the top of the Irish charts before being replaced at number one by The Ballad Of John And Yoko on June 19.

As well as topping the chart in Ireland and the UK, The Ballad Of John and Yoko reached the top in Australia, Austria, Belgium, The Netherlands, Norway, West Germany and Switzerland. It peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US with sales of 1.25 million.

A 2.5 million seller worldwide, the single was ranked as the 404th best classic rock song of all time by New Yorks Q104.3. Rolling Stone has rated it the 48th best Beatles song.
With the area having been one of concern in relation to criminal and anti-social behaviour for some time, a young mother has expressed major concerns about open drug-dealing and drug-taking in Redmond Square in broad daylight.

The Wexford woman was on her way to work on a Monday morning, when she witnessed several drug related incidents in the busy square in the heart of town within minutes of each other, as people milled about and made their way to work and school.

Groups of men could be seen congregating in the morning sunshine and passing pills to each other, which were taken on the spot.

"Everywhere I looked there was something going on, the shocked eyewitness said.

"They were popping pills at 9.30 in the morning. What was really shocking was just how brazen they were. They were doing this so openly in broad daylight while people were heading to work.

"You wouldnt expect to see the likes of it on a Saturday night.

Tired of seeing such scenes play out on Wexford streets, the young mother immediately called Wexford Gardai to report the matter.

It took her seven attempts to get through to Wexford Garda Station, at which point the apologetic garda transferred her to a control centre in Waterford. After waiting on hold for 20 minutes, the woman was forced to hang up, as she had to get to work.

"It was one of those things where I wasn't going to ring 999 because it wasn't really an emergency, she explained. "But at the same time, these lads werent going to be down there forever.

Today's News in 90 Seconds - June 19th

"I felt bad for the garda (at Wexford Garda Station). He was very nice and explained that he was on his own at the desk and he had several different phones ringing and was trying to deal with them all by himself.

"I dont know how many operators they have in the control room in Waterford, but this was a Monday morning. It wasnt peak time. I had to give up after 20 minutes to get to work and the incident wasnt even reported.

Unfortunately, the behaviour reported has become somewhat commonplace in Wexford town of late. The town has seen an apparent increase in criminal and anti-social behaviour, as well as numerous high-profile instances of violence.

"In broad daylight, Wexford continues to see an increase in people openly taking drugs," this concerned resident said. It's not going to get any better if the concerned public, who go to the effort of reporting incidents, cant even get through to an operator in a different county, never mind their own.
A Ukrainian serviceman launches a mid-range reconnaissance drone type Vector for flying over positions of Russian troops, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, near the town of Bakhmut in Donetsk region, Ukraine March 12, 2024. REUTERS/Oleksandr Ratushniak...I

It hasnt received the attention it deserves, but Ukraines unexpected victory in the battle of the Black Sea could be a landmark achievement in the annals of naval warfare.

Without a standing navy of its own, Ukraine has disabled at least one-third of Russias Black Sea Fleet, broken the Russian naval blockade and reopened the Black Sea to its grain exports. Ukraines export volumes are now approaching pre-war levels, providing a huge boon to its wartime economy.
Two persons were arrested last Friday for wearing unprescribed uniforms similar to the Military uniform

The Ministry of Interior says it has begun a crackdown on private security organisations that are using unauthorised uniforms.

In a statement dated Tuesday, June 18, and signed by Doreen Annan, the Acting Chief Director for the Minister of Interior, it said two persons have already been arrested for wearing unprescribed uniforms similar to the Military uniform.

"As part of the Ministry's efforts to regulate the industry, on Friday, June 14, 2024, the Ministry through the Ghana Police Service, arrested two individuals for violating regulations governing private security organisations in Ghana," the statement said.

Their actions were said to have been in violation of regulations outlined in the Police Service (Private Security Organisations) Regulations, 1992 (LI.1571) and the Police Service Organisations (Amendment) Regulations, 1994 (L.I.1579).

According to the ministry, the approved uniforms for private security personnel only include;

White long/short sleeve shirts over a pair of ash khaki trousers with white stripes on both sides. Cream long/short-sleeved shirts over brown khaki trousers with cream stripes on both sides. Mauve long/short sleeve shirts over a pair of maroon trousers with mauve stripes on both sides. Yellow shirts with ash/grey reflectors across the back and front over brown khaki trousers (solely for the Mines and Oil fields).

"The Ministry cautions all Private Security Organisations to comply with the regulations, wear only the approved uniforms and operate within their limit otherwise the Police will arrest and act against any organisation or individuals who fail to comply with the regulations and face the law."
Thousands of Israelis join protest in Jerusalem against Benjamin Netanyahus government

Demonstrators demanding early elections and return of hostages clash with police

A protester is detained during a demonstration against Benjamin Netanyahus Israeli government near the Knesset in Jerusalem. Photo: Reuters

Kyle Melnick Washington Post Wed 19 Jun 2024 at 03:30







Thousands demonstrated against the Israeli government in Jerusalem on Monday night, demanding early elections and a hostage deal in the first of several protests scheduled for this week, amid rising political turmoil in the country.
From Recruitment to Retention: India HR Insights for 2024

From Recruitment to Retention: India HR Insights for 2024, the latest publication from Dezan Shira & Associates is out now and available for free download through the Asia Briefing Publication Store.

Inside this report:

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent in India  Pg 04

Understanding the Regulatory Landscape for Hiring in India  Pg 09

Building a Localized HR Strategy  Pg 17

As India continues to cement its position as a global economic powerhouse, the human resources (HR) landscape in the country is evolving rapidly. With a large workforce, a burgeoning startup ecosystem, and a youthful demographic, India offers immense potential for companies to tap into a skilled workforce. However, the competition for skilled talent is fierce, necessitating effective strategies to recruit the best professionals, establish a conducive work culture, and achieve optimal hiring outcomes.

In this HR report for India Briefing, we take a close look at the Indian HR landscape and offer an essential guide for businesses navigating recruitment and talent management in this dynamic environment.

Our feature on attracting and retaining top talent in India explores new shifts in the countrys labor market, best practices for onboarding and talent development, and employment visa rules for foreign hires. Next, we examine the regulatory frameworks that govern labor management in India, adherence to which is crucial for any organization operating here. Finally, we offer practical advice on customizing HR practices to align with local cultural and economic contexts, covering areas such as employee management, compensation structures, and outsourcing for payroll efficiency.

Whether you are an established player or new to the Indian market, this report will assist you in your employee recruitment and retention strategies. For more information and expert insights to help foreign employers successfully onboard and manage their India recruits and maintain payroll compliance, please email our professionals at india@dezhira.com
Image Credit : Tata Motors

Mumbai: Jaguar Land Rover, owned by Tata Motors , announced on Wednesday that it has signed a letter of intent with its Chinese joint venture partner, Chery, to license the Freelander brand for developing electric vehicles in China.

According to the proposed agreement, CJLR, a 50/50 joint venture between Jaguar Land Rover Ltd and Chery Automobile Company Ltd, will focus on producing a range of advanced electric vehicles using Chery's EV architecture exclusively under the Freelander name.

The Freelander, a Land Rover vehicle produced from 1997 to 2015, was replaced by the Discovery Sport in 2016.

"In reborn CJLR form, Freelander will offer a range of mainstream electric vehicles, initially sold in China through a distinct network but over time destined for global export," the statement said.

The vehicles will be designed collaboratively by Chery and JLR's creative teams to establish a new position in China's rapidly expanding New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market. The products will be manufactured at CJLR's current facility in Changshu, the company added.

Commenting on the development, JLR CEO Adrian Mardell said, "Today we are taking this important strategic step for JLR, one which underlines our ongoing commitment to China and complements our existing business in China."

He further said, "We believe that working together to develop new models of collaboration for the world's largest and fastest-growing electric vehicle market, combined with the appeal of the Freelander brand, promises a very exciting future for CJLR."

Chery Group Chairman Yin Tongyue stated that Chery and JLR are creating an innovative collaboration model that reflects their future growth trajectory.

"The blend of Chery's advanced EV technology with the distinctive appeal of the Freelander brand will undoubtedly provide China and global consumers with a unique electric vehicle experience," Tongyue added.

The Freelander portfolio represents complementary growth, which is independent from both Chery's existing portfolio and JLR's modern luxury 'House of Brands', the statement said.
Photo courtesy: Videograb from X

A massive fire engulfed the Hollong Tourist Lodge also known as Hollong Bungalow in north Bengal's Jaldapar area in Alipurduar district on Tuesday.

The British-era building situated outside the core area of the Jaldapara forest range, which is also amongst the most sought-after tourist destinations in Dooars, was gutted down.

This heritage bungalow has been a favorite travel spot for former chief minister Jyoti Basu and current office-holder Mamata Banerjee.

According to reports, the initial cause of the fire, which broke out around 9 PM on Tuesday has been determined to be a short circuit.

The fire brigade reached the spot at 10.10 PM, however, was unable to control the blaze.

Iconic Hollong Bungalow in West Bengals Alipurduar district completely gutted on Tuesday evening. The tourist lodge that was engulfed in a massive forest was located inside the Jaldapara National Park. #hollongbungalow #fire pic.twitter.com/4tBNWwVq3y  India Blooms (@indiablooms) June 18, 2024

No injury was reported.

The extent of damage to the property is not yet known.

The bungalow, located in the vicinity of the wilderness of Jaldapara National Forest was renovated in 2010.

This comes a day after the Kanchanjungha train accident in West Bengal's Darjeeling which took the lives of nine people and the number of injuries peaked at 30.
Photo courtesy: X/Narendra Modi

New Delhi/IBNS: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has expressed hope that with Prime Minister Narendra Modi back for a third term, talks with India can resume on "some very serious issues" around national security and keeping Canadians safe and the rule of law".

These issues that had caused friction between the two nations last year.

In an interview with CBC News Tuesday, Trudeau said: "There's alignment on a number of big issues that we need to work on, as democracies as a global community."

"But now that he (Modi) is through his election, I think there is an opportunity for us to engage, including on some very serious issues around national security and keeping Canadians safe and the rule of law that we will be engaging," he added.

Justin Trudeau's remarks came after he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Italy last week.

PM Modi's meeting with his Canadian counterpart took place amid strained ties after the country's authorities alleged India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

The two leaders earlier met at the G20 Summit hosted by India in September last year.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen who was wanted in India on various terror charges, was shot dead outside a Gurdwara in Surrey on June 18, 2023.

Canada's charge against India sparked a massive row with both countries expelling diplomats of the other country.

Three Indians were arrested in Canada in May in connection with Nijjar's murder. India has said there are "political interests at work" in the matter and reiterated its position that separatists and extremists have been given political space in the country.
Photo courtesy: Screenshot grab from X post

Patna/IBNS: In a big educational push, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated a new campus of the Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir, media reports said.

Apart from Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, ambassadors of 17 countries were among the attendees.

After unveiling a plaque, the Prime Minister, who visited Bihar for the first time since returning to power for the third consecutive term, planted a sapling in the new campus.

#WATCH | Nalanda, Bihar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils a plaque at the new campus of Nalanda University as he inaugurates the campus. The PM also planted a sapling here. pic.twitter.com/LUtRN02Jxy  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

The Prime Minister posted on X in the morning, "Its a very special day for our education sector. At around 10:30 AM today, the new campus of the Nalanda University would be inaugurated at Rajgir. Nalanda has a strong connect with our glorious past.

"This university will surely go a long way in catering to the educational needs of the youth."

Its a very special day for our education sector. At around 10:30 AM today, the new campus of the Nalanda University would be inaugurated at Rajgir. Nalanda has a strong connect with our glorious past. This university will surely go a long way in catering to the educational needs pic.twitter.com/sJh6cndEve  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2024

Previously, Modi had visited the ruins of Nalanda University, a public central university located in the Nalanda district of Rajgir.

The ruins were declared a United Nations Heritage site in 2016.

In March 2006, then President of India, late APJ Abdul Kalam, had proposed the idea to revive Nalanda University.

In the following year, the Bihar Assembly passed a bill to create the new campus.

Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen was the first Chancellor of the university 1,597 years ago.
Photo courtesy: X/@narendramodi

Rajgir/IBNS: In his first visit to Bihar since assuming power for the third term, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the ancient Nalanda University in the Rajgir district of the state.

Apart from Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, ambassadors of 17 countries were among the attendees.

After unveiling a plaque, the Prime Minister planted a sapling in the new campus.

Today, we are inaugurating the new campus of Nalanda University. It is a reiteration of our commitment to encourage learning, research and innovation. It is also an effort to draw the best scholars from the world to come and pursue their education in our country. pic.twitter.com/MuwKNs6m0Z  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2024

Here's what PM Modi said during his address

1. I am fortunate to get an opportunity to come to Nalanda University within 10 days after taking oath for the third term as Prime Minister. I interpret this as an auspicious sign of India's developmental journey.

2. Nalanda is a symbol of India's academic heritage and vibrant cultural exchange.

3. Nalanda is not just a name but an identity, dignity, value, belief, pride and saga.

Nalanda is a symbol of India's academic heritage and vibrant cultural exchange. Speaking at inauguration of the new campus of the Nalanda University in Bihar. https://t.co/vYunWZnh4c  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2024

4. Nalanda's revival and this new campus will introduce the world to India's capabilities.

5. Nalanda is an evidence of the fact that a country, which stands for strong human values, knows how to create hope for the future by reliving its history.

6. Nalanda is not just a story of reliving India's history but it is associated with the heritage of Asia and the world.

7. The presence of representatives of so many countries for an inauguration of a university campus is unprecedented.

Visiting the excavated remains of Nalanda was exemplary. It was an opportunity to be at one of the greatest seats of learning in the ancient world. This site offers a profound glimpse into the scholarly past that once thrived here. Nalanda has created an intellectual spirit that pic.twitter.com/UAKCZZqXn4  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2024

8. Our neighbouring countries had contributed to the revival of Nalanda University. I congratulate all the friendly countries of India.

9. The new campus of Nalanda University is an inspiration for Bihar, which is moving forward in the developmental journey.

10. Nalanda was once the nerve centre of India's traditions and identity.
Photo courtesy: Screenshot grab from YouTube video

Mumbai/IBNS: The Bombay High Court on Tuesday said it found nothing against the Muslim community or the religious book Quran in Annu Kapoor starrer film, Hamare Baarah, media reports said.

The high court was responding to a batch of pleas seeking a ban on the film alleging it was derogatory against the Muslim community and distorted the Quran.

Rejecting the pleas, the court said Humare Baarah was a "thinking movie".

The Indian public was "not gullible or silly", said the court.

It added as quoted by The Indian Express, "The movie is in fact for the upliftment of women. The movie has a Maulana misinterpreting the Quran and in fact one Muslim man objects to the same in the scene.

"So this shows that people should apply their mind and not blindly follow such Maulanas."

Earlier, a number of pleas were filed in the high court seeking a ban on the film.

Though it had initially postponed the film's release, later the court allowed considering the makers' deletion of objectionable scenes as per the direction of the Central Board of Film Certification or CBFC.

When the petitioners moved the Supreme Court, it postponed the release and asked the high court for appropriate steps.

A division bench of Justices B P Colabawalla and Firdosh Pooniwalla of the high court said the first trailer, which has been removed, was objectionable.

The high court has, however, imposed a fine on the makers for releasing the film's trailer even before securing the CBFC certificate.
Photo courtesy: Darshan Thoogudeepa Facebook page

New Delhi/IBNS: Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and his aides had beaten 33-year-old Renukaswamy, tied him up and gave electric shocks before allegedly murdering him, police said in a remand copy, NDTV reports.

Though 13 people including Darshan and his girlfriend Pavithra Gowda have been arrested, police said 17 people were led by the Kannada actor in the Karnataka murder.

Police claim Darshan may have paid about Rs. 50 lakh to four of his aides in planning and executing the murder.

According to police, the victim had posted an objectionable comment on Kannada actress Pavithra Gowda's Instagram handle accusing her of causing a rift between Thoogudeepa and his wife Vijaya Lakshmi.

This happened after Pavithra posted an Instagram video celebrating his 10-year relationship with Darshan, who has been married to Vijaya Lakshmi for 20 years.

Darshan's aides reportedly carried Renukaswamy in a taxi from Chitradurga to their Bengaluru hideout where they tortured the victim to death.

After allegedly beating to death, Renukaswamy's body was dumped in a stormwater drain at an area which falls under Kamakshipalya Police Station.

Police reportedly got to know from a food delivery man who saw a dog eating the body of the victim.
Convener for the "Hands off our hotels Demo" has condemned tear gas and paper spray attack mounted by the police on protestors during the march.

The lead organizer of the 'Hands Off Our Hotels' protest, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed disappointment with the Ghana Police Service for firing tear gas and pepper spray at protesters during the march.

During the protest, the police are said to have stopped the protestors midway at the switchback road in Cantonment, Accra, from reaching their agreed endpoint at Christ the King.

Speaking to the media, Ablakwa quizzed the police on the need for the use of tear gases when the protestors had done nothing but peacefully conduct themselves with civility throughout the protest.

"First of all, let me condemn what the police did. This is a peaceful march. Our people have conducted themselves so well. Look at the thousands who poured out. There were no issues, no violence, nobody came here with a weapon. Why do you fire tear gas at innocent civilians, helpless and hapless?" Ablakwa asked.

The MP also revealed that some injured protestors have been rushed to the hospitals to receive emergency healthcare due to the nature of their injuries.

"Now as we speak, we've had to rush a few to the hospital. If anything happens to our fellow citizens, the police hierarchy will pay for it. They will be held accountable. We condemn what they have done and we want to tell them that their duty is to protect us. They cannot take the law into their own hands and intimidate innocent citizens, helpless and hapless citizens who are only performing their civic duties," he stated.
The JAC members said overloaded trucks cause more damage to the road.

Khliehriat (Meghalaya): The East Khasi Hills Truck Owners & Transporters Association and the East Jaintia Hills Limestone Suppliers Association, yesterday met the DC of East Jaintia Hills district demanding action against all overloaded trucks plying on NH-6, the arterial road connecting Guwahati in Assam to Meghalaya and further into Silchar (south Assam), Mizoram and Tripura.

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) pointed out that overloaded trucks cause more damage to the road, mainly along the Narpuh circle.

The members of the committee highlighted that the hazardous condition of the road has affected travel, especially for the people travelling for urgent work and to access hospitals for treatment.

Over the past week, the poor state of the road, between Ratacherra and Tongseng, triggered jams, stranding small vehicles for hours.

The JAC members attributed the dangerous condition of the road to years of negligence and disrepair. They added that the road is constantly in need of repair due to poor quality of construction.

The top layer of concrete is frequently eroded, leaving sections covered with loose gravel that gradually deepens over time, forming pits and bumps.

They sought action against operators of large overloaded trucks that are not fit to ply on the stretch, particularly on the Narpuh-Sonapur Bridge.

On May 22, the JAC along with government officials, police personnel, the magistrates and village headmen from Kongong, Wapung Shnong and Tongseng circle led a crackdown on overloaded trucks.

They intercepted the trucks and stopped them from plying on the highway.

The JAC urged the DC of EJHD to repair the road and demanded strict enforcement of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 and the Prevention of Damages to Public Properties Act, 1984 by the district administration.
Mumbai: The Sena vs Sena battle picked up on the occasion of the Shiv Sena foundation day as Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde held parallel programmes in two parts of Mumbai.

On the same day, Uddhav Thackeray, powered by the people's support issued an open challenge to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Modi-ji, I invite you to start campaigning for the Assembly Election in Maharashtra... it will be you versus me," he said, pointing to the election due by year-end.

He also rubbished speculation that the two Sena factions are joining hands to remain in the NDA alliance. He would never go with those who tried to "finish off" his party, Thackeray said.

Though the rebel faction led by Eknath Shinde was awarded the name and election symbol of the undivided Shiv Sena, the voters had decisively settled the legacy issue.

In 2019, the BJP - allied with the undivided Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray - won 23 of 25 Lok Sabha seats it contested in Maharashtra. The Shiv Sena contested the other 23 and won 18.

This time, the Uddhav Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena won nine seats and the Shinde faction one. A similar outcome was seen for the other party that split -- the Nationalist Congress Party with the Sharad Pawar faction winning eight seats.

The faction led by his nephew Ajit Pawar also got the name and party symbol from the Election Commission only one. Ally Congress won 13 seats.

The people's disapproval of the political upheaval in the state extended to the BJP, which, Shinde once said, had engineered the Sena split. The party managed only nine seats.

But Chief Minister Eknath Shinde remained determined to push the point he had based his rebellion on that Thackeray had strayed from the ideology set down by Sena founder and his father Balasaheb Thackeray.
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

A Nepali investigative journalism platform has claimed Ukraine is a 'victim' of Western defence contractors who want to add new countries into NATO for profits.

The platform said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was bribed into profitable contracts to kickstart a war business after Taliban previously exited Afghanistan.

Nepal Correspondence posted on X: "#Ukraine is a victim of western defence contractors who want to add new countries into #NATO for profits. #Russia tried repeatedly to avoid a conflict but #Zelensky was bribed into profitable contracts to kickstart a war business after #Taliban shut down their previous shop in #Afghanistan. In #Russia-Ukraine War, US & NATO partners give aid to #Ukraine from their tax payers money. The question is what these companies are offering to politicians in return of exhausting public coffers?"

   ?#Ukraine is a victim of western defence contractors who want to add new countries into #NATO for profits. #Russia tried repeatedly to avoid a conflict but #Zelensky was bribed into profitable contracts to kickstart a. .

1/2 pic.twitter.com/unSdprTZ2q  Nepal Correspondence (@NepCorres) June 19, 2024

At the close of the Summit on Peace in Ukraine on Sunday, 16 June, the vast majority of participating states agreed on jointly formulated positions and next steps with a view to a future peace process.

President Viola Amherd commended the joint communique that emerged from the Burgenstock summit as a strong signal from the international community for peace based on international law and the UN Charter, read a statement issued by the Switzerland's Federal Department of Foreign Affairs.

92 states from all regions of the world took part in the summit, 57 of which were represented by heads of state and government.

The outcome of the Burgenstock summit marked a first important step on the challenging path towards a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, President Amherd explained. The discussions focused on three topics: nuclear safety, food security and the humanitarian dimension of the conflict (covering prisoners of war, arbitrarily detained civilians and abducted children).

These topics lend themselves to building trust between the parties to the conflict, as an agreement in these areas would be beneficial for both sides.

Furthermore, these are issues that are of great importance to many countries, partly due to their geographical proximity, partly because they themselves are or have been affected by these issues and can share their experiences.

Countries from different regions of the world took part in the discussions and were able to contribute their own experiences and put forward possible solutions.

The joint communique that emerged from the Burgenstock summit was supported by the vast majority of participating states.
Australia, known for its multicultural fabric and inclusivity, is home to one of the fastest-growing Indian diasporas in the world.

Indians are the second-largest immigrant group in the country, contributing significantly to its socio-economic landscape.

Yet, a growing sense of anxiety and concern is taking root among this vibrant community, fueled by recent trends in public discourse and media reportage.

The Indian community, of which Sikhs are an integral and significant part, is increasingly alarmed by what they perceive as a pro-Khalistan bias in the coverage by state broadcasters such as the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS). Influential Indian Australians from Melbourne and Sydney assert that ABC tends to amplify the voices of a handful of self-serving Khalistan extremists, while disregarding the concerns of the diaspora.

One community member pointed out, The ABC talks about the events in Canada but conveniently forgets every time to question pro-Khalistan hooliganism here in Australia. This sentiment reflects a broader frustration that the Australian media is not holding pro-Khalistan elements accountable for their actions within the country.

A case in point is the violence at Melbournes Federation Square in January 2023, where pro-Khalistan extremists, during a so-called referendum, attacked individuals carrying Indian flags. Despite the severity of the incident, there has been little movement towards fixing accountability or delivering justice. Additionally, attacks on Indian temples by pro-Khalistan radicals have not been taken seriously by Australian authorities, despite assurances from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi last May. The question remains: is the safety and security of law-abiding Australian-Indians being overshadowed by the interests of Khalistan separatists?

The communitys apprehensions were further intensified by the recent ABC report titled Infiltrating Australia, which alleges that Indian intelligence officers, posing as diplomats, were expelled for running covert operations targeting Sikh separatists in Australia. The report includes interviews with individuals linked to designated Canadian terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was killed in Vancouver last year. The documentary goes on to accuse the Overseas Friends of the BJP (OFBJP), a support group of Indias ruling party, of attempting to infiltrate Australian politics through connections with the Liberal Party.

Such narratives, community members argue, singularly focus on discrediting Indias global ascent, while ignoring the broader context and complexity of South Asian politics.

This perceived bias is not just a media issue but also a political one. Greens Senator David Shoebridge, quoted extensively in the ABC report, has been a controversial figure in the Indian community, particularly after he received an award from the Pakistani President for his contributions to human rights. Shoebridges past remarks comparing Indian groups to Nazis have only deepened the mistrust towards his and ABCs intentions.

The issue of Khalistan is a deeply sensitive one for India, impacting its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Yet, Australias alignment with Canada and the US on this matter, despite a burgeoning partnership with India under the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) and a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), raises questions. The economic ties, underscored by the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) signed in 2022, further complicate the diplomatic landscape.

The Indian diaspora in Australia deserves fair and balanced reportage that acknowledges their contributions and concerns. Media entities like the ABC and SBS must strive to present nuanced perspectives rather than echoing one-sided narratives. The growing Sikh community in Australia is not just a statistic; it is a vital part of the nations multicultural identity and deserves to be heard and respected.

(Photo and text courtesy: Khalsavox.com)
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

A knife attack incident at a metro station in Shanghai city of China on Tuesday left at least three people injured.

The knife-wielding man has been apprehended by the police.

According to reports, the man attacked people at Hechuan Road Station on the city's No. 9 metro line.

Police said the attack happened at 8:28 a.m. at the subway station in Minhang District in the southwest part of Shanghai, Xinhua news agency reported.

The injured people were hospitalised.

The station was temporarily closed following the incident.

It was later reopened.

The arrested suspected was identified as a 54-year-old man surnamed Shen.

The case is currently under investigation.
Photo Courtesy: Sikyong Penpa Tsering X page

A US congressional delegation led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul recently visited the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile in the Himalayan Indian state of Dharamshala on June 18.

The high-level delegation was received with Tibetan traditional welcome by Speaker Khenpo Sonam Tenphel, Sikyong Penpa Tsering, Kalon Gyari Dolma, Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, members of the Standing Committee, the Public Accounts Committee & the Rules and Review Committee, and secretary led staff members of the Tibetan Parliamentary Secretariat, reported Central Tibetan Administration.

Greeting the delegation members, the Speaker said their visit to Dharamshala sends a strong message to the Chinese government and demonstrates the bipartisan support from the U.S. Congress for the Tibetan cause, the news portal reported.

He expressed gratitude to various governments, particularly India and the United States, for their generous support, which has enabled Tibetans in exile to thrive globally.

Chairman Michael McCaul of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, in his address, highlighted the Resolve Tibet Act and its legislative journey, emphasising the importance of democracy.

The team which visited Tibet included Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi; Mariannette Miller-Meeks, House Veterans Affairs Committee; Gregory Meeks, Ranking Member, House Foreign Affairs Committee; Nicole Malliotakis, House Ways and Means Committee; Rep. Jim McGovern, House Rules Committee; and Ami Bera, House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Photo Courtesy: Sikyong Penpa Tsering X page

US House Foreign Affairs Committee, Michael McCaul, who is heading a bipartisan delegation from the US to Indian city of Dharamshala, has affirmed President Joe Biden's intention to sign the 'Resolve Tibet Act'.

The delegation met Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama in the city.

"We are very excited to see His Holiness tomorrow to talk about many things including the bill we passed out of Congress which basically says that the United States stands with the people of Tibet," McCaul was quoted as saying by ANI.

When asked if President Biden would sign the bill, McCaul confirmed, "Yes, he will."

Tibet was invaded by China in 1950.

Chinas ruling Communist Party has been governing it since then.
Siddharth Mallya, son of renowned businessman Vijay Mallya, is set to marry his girlfriend Jasmine. The first picture of the couple's engagement recently went viral. In the photo, Siddharth and Jasmine can be seen smiling happily. Siddharth is wearing a smart suit, while Jasmine looks elegant in a dress. The picture quickly went viral on social media, with many people congratulating the happy couple.

Engagement creates buzz

The engagement has generated a lot of excitement, with many eagerly awaiting more details about the upcoming wedding. Siddharth and Jasmine have been quite open about their relationship, often sharing affectionate moments on social media.

Who Is Jasmine?

Picture Of Jasmine/IG

Jasmine, Siddharth Mallya's fiancee, has been living in the United States. She often shares her travel adventures and love for nature on her Instagram account. Jasmine has two dogs, a husky and a golden retriever, which frequently appear in her social media posts.

Jasmine is an advocate for civilian rights and supports the Ceasefire Centre for Civilian Rights, which focuses on humanitarian law. She also donates to abortion funds and supports access to these services in U.S. states where they are banned.

Siddharth and Jasmine have been dating for over a year, share a love for Harry Potter, and even have matching Harry Potter-themed tattoos.

Pucture Of Jasmine and Siddharth mALLYA together/IG

Wedding Plans

The couple will tie the knot this week after dating for a while. Siddharth recently shared a new picture with Jasmine and announced the marriage news. He captioned the post, "Wedding week has begun #wedding #ily." In the picture, the couple posed amidst beautiful flower decorations, looking deeply in love.

Siddharth proposed to Jasmine on Halloween in November 2023. He went down on one knee and gave her a ring, captioning the post, "Well I guess youre stuck with me now foreverrrr. I love u my juppet @jassofiaa (thank u for saying yes to this pumpkin) #engaged #love #halloween."

Siddharth Mallya's background

Siddharth Mallya, once a model, is now an author who has written two books on mental health and advocates for mental health awareness. He gained fame as the director of the IPL team Royal Challengers Bangalore and appeared in "The Hunt for The Kingfisher Calendar Girl 2013." His father, Vijay Mallya, is the former chairman of UB Group.



Siddharth was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised in London and the UAE. He completed his studies at Wellington College and Queen Mary University of London.



Also Read: 'Kehdo ye jooth hai', Internet reacts as 'Vada Pav girl' becomes first confirmed contestant of BB OTT 3

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


95-year-old James Steele was in for a pleasant surprise after he recently reunited with his beloved Rolex watch that had been lost for more than 50 years. Steele, a British farmer from Shropshire in the West Midlands of England, lost his Rolex watch on the farm while working there in the early 1970s, and it was believed that it had been eaten by a cow.

Watch found during treasure hunt

However, to the surprise of everyone, including Steele, it was detected in the field. The watch was found by treasure hunter Liam King, who was granted permission by Steele's son to search their farm for treasures like old coins and other objects. While scanning the field with his metal detector, King stumbled upon the long-lost Rolex watch.

Also read: The Lost Treasure Of Ship SS Shirala: WWI Currency Fetches Rs 12 Lakh At Auction

BBC

Bought the watch at 21

According to Steele, he bought the Rolex shortly after his 21st birthday in 1950, but he lost it about 20 years later while working on his farm. Steele searched the fields for the watch, but his only lead was a nearby cow.



"The cow could have eaten it with a mouthful of grass, the vet said," Steele explained.

More than 50 years later, the treasure hunter unearthed it, and the Rolex watch was in fairly good shape, though it had faded in color and stopped working a long time ago.

BBC

Never thought I would see it

"It was an amazing stroke of luck for it to turn up again after all this time lost in the earth. I was really pleased because I never thought I would see the watch again," he said.

Not going to repair it

While Steele might not be able to wear it as he only has half the bracelet, he said he is glad to have it back as a keepsake. He also mentioned that he does not plan to have the watch repaired, as it would be costly.

BBC

Also read: Uncovering A Mysterious 1820s Time Capsule At West Point

"Im not going to bother getting the Rolex fixed. Itd cost a bomb to repair," he said.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
AI is everywhere these daysso much so that it's now making a bid for UK elections! Yes, you heard that right. An AI entity throwing its hat into the political ring has us all scratching our heads. But before we dive into the whys and hows, let's unravel how this futuristic twist actually came to be.



AI Steve

AI Steve is an 'artificial' actual participant in Britain's upcoming July 4 national election and is running as an Independent.



AI Steve is the brainchild of Steve Endacott, a self-described entrepreneur based in Rochdale who also keeps a residence in Brighton.

Unlike traditional candidates, AI Steve's campaign features an AI-generated avatar rather than Endacott himself on campaign materials.

Also read: 'I Enjoy Her': 77-Year-Old US Woman On Using AI-Powered Companion Robot To Deal With Loneliness

The 59-year-old is known for his ventures in both the travel sector and as the chair of Neural Voice, an artificial intelligence company.

AI Steve engages with constituents in real-time on a variety of issues, ranging from LGBTQ rights and housing to waste management and immigration. It solicits feedback and proposes policies based on these interactions.

AI Steve

"We're launching a party, and after this election, we plan to recruit more AI candidates nationwide," Endacott told Reuters.



He envisions AI Steve as the first step towards a more democratic political landscape.

Endacott promises that AI Steve will attend Parliament and vote on policies guided by feedback from constituents. The AI representative uses Endacott's voice and an avatar to respond to inquiries and address concerns.

On his website, Endacott explains that AI Steve was designed to provide round-the-clock access for residents of Brighton and Hove to voice opinions and shape policies.

This innovative approach to politics has sparked intrigue and discussion as the election draws near.

What are your thoughts on the use of AI in politics? Do you believe it's ethical for AI to represent and make decisions for constituents?

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
When Anna Lee Dozier picked up what appeared to be a used vase from a thrift store for $3.99 (around Rs 330), she had no idea what she was getting. Only around five years later, during a visit to Mexico, the native of Washington, DC, realized that she had an ancient Mayan artefact at home.

Found on clearance sale

According to Dozier, she discovered an interesting vase on the clearance rack of the 2A Thrift Store in Clinton.

Also read: Ordinary Vase Worth $1,900 Sold For $9 Million After Being Mistaken For Rare Artefact

SCREENGRAB

It looked old-ish, but I thought maybe 20, 30 years old and some kind of tourist reproduction thing, so I brought it home, she said.

Similar objects in Museum

But five years later, during a visit to Mexico, Dozier noticed that some items on display at the Museum of Anthropology looked similar to the vase she had at home. Curious, Dozier spoke to the Museum of Anthropology authorities about the vase she had, and they suggested she contact the Mexican embassy.

SCREENGRAB

Based on the photographs and the dimensions of the vase, authorities at the embassy identified the vase as a Mayan artifact dating from A.D. 200-800. Dozier, who has worked as a human rights advocate with Indigenous communities in Mexico, then decided to return the vase to its rightful place.

Also read: Woman Returns Artefacts She Stole From Pompeii, Says They 'Cursed' Her For 15 Years

Mayan artefact to be repatriated

She handed it over to the Mexican Ambassador to the US, Moctezuma Barragan, who said it would be repatriated and displayed at the Museum of Anthropology. Dozier said she was happy that the artifact would finally be at a place where it belongs.

SCREENGRAB

"I am thrilled to have played a part in its repatriation story. I would like it to go back to its rightful place and to where it belongs. But I also want it out of my home because I have three little boys, and I have been petrifiedwell, it's gone nowbut I was petrified that after two thousand years I would be the one to wreck it!" she said.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.
In an extraordinary motherhood story reported by The Sun, Erin Clancy, a 42-year-old construction company owner from New York, USA, has welcomed the arrival of twins born six months apart-one biologically hers and the other carried by a surrogate-based 900 miles (1448.41 kilometres) away in Illinois.



What did the mother say?

The mother said, "I couldn't believe it." | Image: The Sun

"Holding my newborn Dylan in my arms, I couldn't believe it. He was perfect. I couldn't wait for him to meet his 'twin' who was due to be born in six months. I met Brian in January 2016 on an online dating site. Handsome and caring, he was just what I was looking for. Three years later, he proposed, and we married in September 2020. It was a beautiful day. We started trying to get pregnant in January 2021, confident it would happen easily, which it didn't," Erin told The Sun.



When did the mother start IVF?

Erin Clancy revealed that in June 2021, at the age of 39, she began IVF therapy | Image: The Sun

Erin Clancy revealed that in June 2021, at the age of 39, she began IVF therapy. The first round was unsuccessful, and the second effort showed promise but ended in a miscarriage at seven weeks.



Devastated and unsure of their future actions, particularly because the drug was causing severe headaches, she and her partner began to examine surrogacy as an option.

Also read: 3 Years Since Conjoined Twins Abby Hensel Got Married To An Army Veteran: Watch Their Wedding Dance

"After extensive research, we registered with an agency and, in May 2022, were matched with a surrogate. In August, I discovered I was pregnant but began bleeding at six weeks. We decided to continue with surrogacy. Both pregnancies were successful, and in May 2023, I gave birth to Dylan. In November, our surrogate delivered Declan. From infertility struggles, I became a mother to two healthy boys, filled with love and joy," she said.

How are the two twins different?

he guys share such a close bond. Dylan loves to dance, and Declan adores our dogs | Image: The Sun

The following day, the guys met for the first time, which was incredible. While I loved Declan, he didn't sleep and screamed a lot, making me feel awful about not carrying him.



At two months old, he was diagnosed with a milk protein allergy, which explained everything. Strangers were perplexed by the age difference, and when I mentioned it on a forum, things really blew up.

People went insane, shouting things like, "It must be a scam," and "How is this even possible?". The guys share such a close bond. Dylan loves to dance, and Declan adores our dogs.

Also read: Extremely Rare Conjoined 'Spider Twins' Have Four Arms, Three Legs

"When they're old enough, I'll tell them how they became brothers." I don't care what others think about the path we've walked," she said.

What do you think about this? Tell us in the comments.

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The Henley Private Wealth Migration Report 2024 reveals that India will see a net loss of 4,300 millionaires this year. Although this is a drop from the 5,100 who left in 2023, India remains a leading country for high-net-worth individual (HNWI) departures. This trend mirrors global wealth migration patterns influenced by geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and social changes.

UAE: A Premier Destination for Indian Millionaires

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to be a top choice for Indian millionaires. The UAE is expected to attract a record net inflow of 6,700 wealthy migrants in 2024, thanks to its zero income tax policy, golden visa programs, luxurious lifestyle, and strategic location.

Sunita Singh-Dalal, Partner at Hourani in Dubai, said, "The growth and development of the UAEs wealth management ecosystem is remarkable. In less than five years, the UAE has established a strong regulatory framework that offers the wealthy innovative solutions to protect, preserve, and grow their wealth."

READ ALSO: Hiware Bazar: This little-known, small Indian village has 80 millionaires!



Indians are among the top nationalities seeking residence and citizenship by investment programs. Popular options include Portugals Golden Residence Permit Program, Greeces Golden Visa Program, Spains Residence by Investment Program, and Maltas Citizenship by Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment. In the Caribbean, Antigua and Barbudas Citizenship by Investment Program and Grenadas Citizenship by Investment Program continue to attract wealthy Indians and their families.

Why Indian millionaires are moving abroad: This country is the top choice | Freepik

Global Wealth Migration Trends

Dominic Volek, Group Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners, notes that 2024 is a pivotal year for global wealth migration. An unprecedented 128,000 millionaires are expected to relocate worldwide this year, surpassing the previous record of 120,000 set in 2023. This great millionaire migration signals a profound shift in the global landscape, with far-reaching implications for both the countries they leave and those they move to, he says.

Other top destinations for migrating millionaires include the United States, Singapore, Canada, and Australia. These countries are projected to see significant net inflows of wealthy individuals, benefiting from the economic contributions and job creation that HNWIs often bring.

READ ALSO: The millionaire maker: How Shark Tank judge Mark Cuban turned 300 of his employees into millionaires

Why are people moving out of India?

The outflow of millionaires from India is driven by a mix of factors, including the search for better lifestyles, safer environments, and access to premium health and education services. Dr. Hannah White OBE, Director and CEO of the Institute for Government in London, highlights that economic and political stability are crucial in retaining HNWIs.

Additional Significant Outflows and Economic Implications of Millionaire Migration

Other significant outflows of millionaires are expected from countries such as China, the UK, South Korea, Brazil, South Africa, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Nigeria. Each of these countries faces unique challenges that drive their patterns of millionaire migration.

The migration of millionaires has substantial economic implications. Andrew Amoils, Head of Research at New World Wealth, explains, "Migrating millionaires are a vital source of foreign exchange revenue as they tend to bring their money with them when they move to a new country. Additionally, around 20% of them are entrepreneurs and company founders who may start new businesses, thus creating local jobs in their new country. This percentage rises to over 60% for centi-millionaires and billionaires."

As global wealth migration trends continue to evolve, countries with favorable policies for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are poised to benefit the most. Henley & Partners report emphasizes the importance of these initiatives in attracting and retaining global wealth.

India's position in the global wealth migration landscape underscores the need for policies that foster economic stability and growth. As wealthy individuals seek better opportunities abroad, countries like the UAE, USA, and Portugal offer attractive options through investment migration programs.

For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here


From Khandala farmhouse to owning 3 buildings where his father worked: Suniel Shetty's 'pFor Suniel Shetty, the prime objective was to build a quality life for his family instead of building a business empire.

Shetty, with more than three decades in the film industry, clarified that despite perceptions of him as a "big businessman," he emphasized this was not accurate. During a conversation on Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa's podcast, the actor discussed his career and revealed that many of his decisions were driven by emotions. He went on to reveal that even when his films tanked, he never gave up or lost heart. Instead he worked towards growing in life despite the odds.

Suniel doesnt think of himself as a big businessman

suniel shetty/linkedin

"There is a perception that I am a big businessman, which actually isn't true. I do my bit and I live within my means. You will never see me driving four cars, I drive one and I will enjoy it for two years. If I want a house, I want that one, I won't settle for anything ordinary. When I can afford it, I will do the best. You spend the most time in your house, so if the house doesn't invite you, there is no point," he said.



Also Read: Not Films, Suniel Shetty Celebrates The Success Of Two Startups He Backs - Aquatein & Regrip

Suniel Shetty doesnt believe in settling for less, shares he will never sell his farmhouse

"People today say, 'You must see Suniel Shetty's farmhouse,' I built it 16 years ago! Back then, its financial valuation was perhaps (nothing) but my idea was to grow up with my children, Athiya and Ahan, to spend time with them over the weekend, do farming, all the trees there are planted by us. What had rocks before, there are more than 400 trees there. The house was built for this. That it is valuable now is a different story," he added.

asian paints

The actor mentioned that he has no intention of selling either his farmhouse or his residence in Mumbai, viewing them more as emotional investments rather than financial ones, "I didn't plan this, I will never even sell it so its value is zero from a price perspective. But from a personal perspective, it is priceless. Same for this house where I live, for the outside world it will have a price but not for me. I would never want to sell it. I always wanted to give to kids where they feel happy and you continue to do what you are meant to do. Never stop doing for people, you will only get more."



As per reports, this farmhouse is valued at Rs 83 crores.

Shetty shared the struggles of his father who worked at a restaurant as a table cleaner

"My dad ran away and came to Mumbai as a child. He didn't have a father, but he had three sisters. He found work in a South Indian restaurant at age nine, because that's the thing about our community, we support each other. His first job was cleaning tables. He was so little, he would have to make four rounds of the table just to clean all sides. He would sleep in a sack meant for rice," Suniel said.

Architectural digest india

Suniel expressed admiration for his father's remarkable tenacity as he climbed the ranks,"His boss bought three buildings, and dad was eventually asked to manage them. When the boss retired, dad bought all three buildings. Today, I still have all three buildings. And that's where our journey began."

Suniel Shetty's net worth

As per reports, Shetty's net worth is said to be over Rs 125 crore
We've all heard of Indian millionaires and billionaires like Mukesh Ambani, Ratan Tata, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, and Falguni Nayar. They've made not just their hometowns but the entire nation proud. But have you ever heard of an inspirational place? Yes, you read that right. There's a small village in India with not one or two, but 80 millionaires! Let's dive into this real-life inspirational story.

Before 1989, Hiware Bazar in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar district was just like any other Indian village. In 1972, it suffered from poverty and drought. But in the 1990s, the village's fate began to change, thanks to the village head, Popatrao Baguji Pawar. Now, the village has around 80 millionaires, and they're all farmers!

The success of this village is due to the transformation of its socio-economic fabric by its head. With a population of about 1,250, Hiware Bazar shows how hard work and determination can change people's fate.

Hiware Bazar: This little-known, small Indian village has 60 millionaires! | curlytales

Besides bustling markets, clean roads, green fields, and well-built houses, the village also stands out for its ban on open defecation, tobacco, deforestation, grazing, and alcohol consumption.

Every year, the village continues to improve. In 1989, Popatrao Pawar was elected as the village head (sarpanch). Since then, there's been no looking back.

Pawar first focused on ending smoking and drinking by shutting down all illicit liquor stores in the village. Then, he banned liquor and tobacco consumption.

Next, since the village gets very little rainfall, Pawar arranged for a loan and started a rainwater harvesting and watershed conservation program. From 90 wells in the 1990s, the village now has around 294 wells. Farming became the primary source of income, and the village focused on less water-intensive crops like pulses, vegetables, fruits, and flowers.

Present Day Scenario & Achievements

The villagers now focus heavily on cattle farming. In the 20th century, they produced about 33 gallons of milk per day. Today, they produce around 880 gallons per day!

In 1995, out of 182 families in the village, 168 were below the poverty line (BPL). Today, that number is zero.

READ ALSO: Why Infosys offers up to Rs 8 Lakh for Hubballi campus transfers



Other achievements include:

Every home has a toilet.

Each house uses biogas.

Schools and a healthcare system have been built.

Electricity and water are available throughout the village.

Three women are on the 70-member panchayat (self-government system), and the village covers the costs of every second daughter's marriage and education.

Hiware Bazar boasts the highest per capita income in the country. Villagers earn an average of Rs 30,000 per month, and out of 305 families, 80 are millionaires. Additionally, 50 families earn more than Rs 10 lakh annually.

With just over 1,250 people, Hiware Bazar's main income source is agriculture. The village once suffered from poverty due to severe droughts in the 80s and 90s, forcing villagers to migrate to cities. In 1990, 90% of the families were poor.

However, the villagers formed the Joint Forest Management Committee in 1990, started digging wells, and planted trees through Shramdaan. They also banned water-intensive crops. As a result, there are now over 300 wells in the village, and the groundwater level has risen to 30 feet.

All the families earn their income from farming, growing vegetables, and earning significant income every year. The per capita income of Hiware Bazar is twice the average income of the top 10% rural areas of the country. In the last 20 years, the village's average income has increased more than 20 times. Poverty ended due to the villagers' unity, and migration to cities stopped. People who left have returned.

The Ideal Village & Highest Accolades

Hiware Bazar was named 'Ideal Village' by the Maharashtra Government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored the village head and the villagers. Popatrao Pawar was appointed chairman of the Model Village Programme of Maharashtra, aiming to create 100 similar villages. Brighter days are ahead!

Mr. Popatrao even received the prestigious Padma Shri award in November 2021 for social work from President Kovind.

READ ALSO: UK Village Tormented By 100 Rampaging Feral Chickens, Causing Sleepless Nights



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Visual material showing an arsonist setting fire to dry weeds on the Vari-Koropiou road is in the hands of Fire Brigade and Greek police investigators, Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias said on Wednesday, as firefighters tried to put

out the Koropi area that led to evacuations and road shutdowns.

"The fire spread very fast, but there are documented indications that its cause was not weather conditions alone," Kikilias said, referring to high-velocity winds hampering firefighters.

The minister added, "The Fire Brigade and Greek police investigators have visual material that clearly shows an arsonist setting fire to dry weeds on the Vari-Koropiou (road), while a can of petroleum and a cloth to ignite the fire were found nearby. When we have permission from the Fire Brigade and Hellenic Police's Directorate of Managing Crimes of Arson, we shall release the material to the public."

   iefimerida.gr
The Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged vessel Tutor, has sunk in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen after twin attacks from Houthi forces, reported the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

Owned by Greek shipping company Evalend Shipping, the Tutor was last known to be

afloat despite parts of its stern submerged and its engine room fully flooded. One crew member remains missing.

Evalend officials were not available for comment. UKMTO confirmed that military authorities have spotted debris and oil at the ships last known location.

The 22 Filipino crew members were evacuated by the USS Philippine Sea, a naval warship, while one crew member is still unaccounted for.

The Tutor sustained severe damage to its engine room and continued to take on water while awaiting assistance from two large tugs. The tug Gladiator reached the on Tuesday, with Hercules expected today, likely awaiting instructions from the managing company to address potential pollution and the deployment of chemical cleaning agents.

On Monday, the U.S. government, leading a coalition developed in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden to prevent attacks by Yemeni rebels against commercial vessels, announced that a Filipino sailor from the Tutors crew was killed in last weeks Houthi strikes.

   iefimerida.gr
Progressive citizens "cannot possibly remain passive before far-right hate rhetoric," SYRIZA-Progressive Alliance leader Stefanos Kasselakis said on social media on Wednesday.

Kasselakis expressed appreciation for supporters over homophobic statements directed at him by prominent lawyer Alexis Kougias. The statements prompted the Supreme Court to ask for an investigation into whether Kougias violated the antiracism law.

"The

time has come for the Middle Ages represented by people like Kougias in this country to be condemned by Greek justice as well. The time has come for the person linking the LGBTQ+ community with the word 'junta' to receive a response," the main opposition leader said. He added however that "it is not a personal bet. It is society's need that the hope of an inclusive world wins against bigotry."

In his social media post, Kasselakis called on "progressive lawyers who want to prosecute Mr. Kougias in criminal and civil suits" to send him a message at his private accounts or at [email protected] and "go together to justice in order to defeat hate." Any compensation won at court, he said, he would give to homes for battered women "since the 'manliness' of the perpetrator was the cause of this case."

   iefimerida.gr
Abdullahi Abbas, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Kano State, has called on the security agencies to arrest Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, National Leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).

According to him, the former Kano Governor should be arrested for accusing the Federal Government of encouraging insecurity in the State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Abbas urged security agencies to not only detain Kwankwaso, but to make him identify those allegedly recruiting Boko Haram terrorists under the Federal Governments directive.

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We want to call on security agents in the strongest terms to arrest this man so that he reveals the identity of the people he referred to as enemies of the state working for the federal government to recruit Boko Haram terrorists and insurgents, the statement said.

Kwankwasos allegations were made on Monday during a flag-off ceremony for the construction of an 85-kilometre rural road in his hometown, Madobi.

READ ALSO: Okada Rider Stabs Peacemaker To Death In Lagos

The APC Chairman, condemned the comments, suggesting they indicated a sinister plan by Kwankwaso to cause unrest in Kano.

Kwankwaso has for long been a security threat to Kano and the nation in view of his antecedents, Abbas alleged.

He accused Kwankwaso of leading a cult-like movement (Kwankwasiyya) and recruiting youths, mostly school dropouts, to perpetrate violence in the state.

The statement also recalled that before and during the 2023 election, numerous youths were allegedly recruited and empowered by Kwankwaso to intimidate the public through physical attacks and property destruction.

Abbas mentioned alleged threats made by the 2023 NNPP presidential candidate and his associates against judges during the legal battle over the governorship election.

Since the controversial appointment of Sanusi Lamido Sanusi as Emir, Abbas claimed that armed thugs have been stationed at the Emirs Palace, where illicit substances are openly sold, posing a threat to nearby residents.

He added that the Federal Government would not be intimidated by threats from Kwankwaso.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, says the Federal High Court and the National Industrial Court have no jurisdiction to determine chieftaincy matters.

He said this while reacting to the emirship battle between Emir Ado Bayero and Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi in Kano State.

Falana, in a Tuesday statement, accused both courts of separately conferring jurisdiction on themselves to determine chieftaincy matters.

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The human rights lawyer further described both decisions as, highly erroneous as they cannot be justified under sections 251 and 254(C) of the Constitution.

He added that both courts conveniently overruled the judgments of the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal on the subject matter.

According to him, The intervention of the Federal High Court in the dispute arising from the deposition of Emir Ado Bayero & Co. as well as the restoration of Emir Sanusi Lamido Sanusi is a brazen repudiation of the decision of the Supreme Court in the celebrated case of Tukur v Government of Gongola State (1987) 4 NWLR (117) 517 where it was held that the question raised in this claim is not a fundamental right question.

As in the first prayer, the right to be Emir is not guaranteed by the Fundamental Rights provisions of the Constitution and the Federal High Court has no jurisdiction whatever in the matter. The Court of Appeal was, therefore, not in error of law to hold that the Federal High Court has no jurisdiction to grant the two reliefs.

READ ALSO: Emirship Tussle: NNPP Will Fight Enemies Advising FG To Declare State Of Emergency In Kano  Kwankwaso

Since the apex court has said that the right to be an Emir is not a fundamental right under chapter four of the Constitution, the Federal High Court sitting in Kano ought to have declined jurisdiction to continue to entertain the dispute over the chieftaincy matter in Kano. In any case, the allegation of infringement of the fundamental rights of the Applicants is an ancillary claim to the substantive reliefs emanating from the deposition and reinstatement of the embattled emirs.

In FCMB Plc v Nyama (2014) LPELR-23973 AT 19-20, the Court of Appeal held that: Now it is settled that where an application is made under the fundamental Right (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, a condition precedent to the exercise of the courts jurisdiction is that the enforcement of fundamental rights of the securing of enforcement thereof should be the main claim and not the accessory claim. Where the main or principal claim is not the enforcement of fundament right, the jurisdiction of the court cannot be properly exercised under Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules.

A Federal High Court in Kano last week ruled that it has jurisdiction to hear the human rights violation case filed by the dethroned Emir of Kano, Bayero, and senior councillor, Aminu Danagundi, following the reinstatement of Emir Muhammad Sanusi II.

The court issued an ex-parte order preventing Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano from reinstating Sanusi until a substantive suit against the reinstatement is resolved.

The order also opposed the abolishment of four emiratesBichi, Gaya, Karaye, and Ranounder a bill previously passed by the State House of Assembly.

Concluding his submission, Falana said, I submit, with profound respect, that section 254(C)(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended has not conferred jurisdiction on the National Industrial Court to hear and determine chieftaincy matters.

However, a traditional ruler who was deposed by a state governor without fair hearing is not without a legal redress.
The Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos State Police Command detained a suspect on Monday night for using a hammer to inflict serious injury to the head of a 65-year-old man near Pako Bus Stop in Iyana Ipaja.

According to a statement released on the X platform on Tuesday, RRS officers on patrol noticed the attack and intervened around 8:30 p.m. on Monday.

The statement partly read, The suspect, Sodiq Ishola, 29 years old, was arrested around 8:30 p.m. Monday at the Iyana Ipaja area after he was restrained and arrested from inflicting further injuries to the head of his victim (name withheld).

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Preliminary investigations by the police revealed that the suspect and one accomplice trailed the victim and his wife from Lagos Island on a bike to Iyana Ipaja before Ishola descended on him.

Before being arrested by RRS operatives on patrol, Ishola was said to have inflicted severe injuries on his victims head.

READ MORE: In My Time, Cultism Used To Be In The University But Now Its In The Music Industry  Terry G

The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment, according to the statement, and the suspect was transferred to RRS Headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja.

CSP Olayinka Egbeyemi, the RRS Commander, was reportedly claimed to have ordered the suspects transfer to the State Criminal Investigations Department for further inquiry.

SEE POST:
Kemi Olunloyo, an investigative journalist, has resorted to social media to criticise the recently concluded Ojude Oba Festival.

Every year on the third day of the Muslim Eid-el-Kabir, indigenes gather in Ijebu Ode to pay respect to the King, Alaiyeluwa Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Adetona, Ogbagba II, Awujale, and paramount monarch of Ijebuland.

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During his speech on Tuesday, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun promised to make the Ojude Oba celebration a global event.

In response to the governors speech, Olunloyo criticised the event as a waste of time, encouraging the governor to focus on more pressing concerns such as putting an end to cultism and rituals, which have become a problem in the state.

READ MORE: Seun Kuti Claims Burna Boy Wrongly Credited For His Achievements In Music Industry

Taking to her X account on Tuesday, she wrote:

What the hell is Ojude festival? Empty hype. Dapo Abiodun wants to make it global. A big joke. All I see is a bunch of stingy people Ijebus sitting down in a stadium wearing all sorts of Aso Ebi. What exactly are they watching in that stadium? No one is interested in your excessive fashion parade. Feed the people, stop the ritualists and educate the youth to stay away from money rituals and cultism.

SEE POST:
Suspended Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Kyari, has returned to prison after being denied bail by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

This decision comes about three weeks after Kyari was granted a temporary two-week bail of N50 million, along with a surety of the same amount, to allow him to attend his late mothers burial.

In separate rulings on Wednesday, the court held that the defendants had not presented any evidence to warrant the courts discretion.

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Justice Nwite said that the court must exercise its discretion judiciously, and in this case, its cannot grant bail to the defendants.

READ MORE: Drug Trafficking: Abba Kyari Released On Bail After 27 Months In Jail

Kyari, who has headed the Police Intelligence Response Team, IRT, is answering to an eight-count charge the National Drug Law Enforcing Agency preferred him and four members of his team; ACP Sunday J. Ubia, ASP Bawa James, Insp. Simon Agirigba and Insp. John Nuhu.

Kyari, through his team of lawyers led by Mr. Nureni Jimoh, SAN, maintained that the charge was legally defective and premature, insisting that the NDLEA ought to have allowed police to exhaust its internal machinery before it instituted the action.

He told the court that the Police had already commenced investigation on allegations against him and issued an interim report.

The defendant argued that he could only be charged to court upon conclusion of the internal investigation by the police.


Former Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola has posited that workers in Nigeria deserve reasonable adjustments to cope with the rising cost of living in the country.

The former Lagos Governor stated this in a Tuesday piece titled, Minimum Wage Review  My Take Away.

His words: When cost of living rises as they have now, the lowest and the highest income earners are impacted to varying degrees and therefore deserving of reasonable adjustments whether they earn wages or salaries.

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The Senior Advocate of Nigeria further faulted Section 4(1)(b) of the National Minimum Wage Act 2019 which exempted an establishment employing less than 25 persons from being bound by the provisions of the Act to pay the minimum wage.

The exemption of such establishments, he said, raises serious doubts about whether we have enacted a minimum wage Act if small businesses who barely have 25 employees but who employ the largest number of the most vulnerable people are exempted from the law as currently legislated.

He said item 34 of the 1999 Constitution as amended in the Exclusive Legislative list confers power on the National Assembly to prescribe a national minimum wage for the Federation and not a monthly salary.

According to him, though wages and salaries are common methods of compensation open to the employer, the former is a fixed annual amount, payable at weekly, bi-weekly or monthly subject to agreement, while the latter refer to payment based on an hourly rate and the number of hours the employee works.

READ ALSO: Prioritize Good Governance, Stop Mocking Nigerians  LP Tells Tinubu

Therefore, it seems obvious from this definition that by making a law in Section 3(1) of the Minimum Wage Act that the minimum wage of N30,000 shall be paid monthly, the NASS may have acted unconstitutionally by legislating on a SALARY (monthly payment) when they only have power to legislate on WAGES, an hourly payment.

This is important while the conversation on minimum wage is being had in 2024 because in Section 3(4), the minimum wage shall be reviewed in line with the provisions of this Act which includes Section 3(1) that has prescribed a monthly amount instead of an hourly wage.

Of course, if and when we decide as a country on the implementation of a proper minimum wage, we must then design a formula to review salaries of those who do not earn wages in order to assist them deal with cost-of-living challenges.

This may yet be the most fruitful outcome of the dilemma of appropriate employee compensation as it may lay the foundation for national productivity, wealth creation and prosperity. The opportunity is too big to miss or waste, he said.

The former Governor urged experts in labour law and compensation matters to put their thinking caps on and seek help from the best faculties around the world.

As we do this, we must be mindful of the need for a possible amendment to item 34 of the Exclusive list in the constitution to include salaries because it currently does not, he stated.

Recall that the Organised Labour recently commenced industrial action following failed negotiations on a new minimum wage.

The labour unions argue that the current N30,000 minimum wage is insufficient to meet basic needs amidst economic challenges enhanced by recent government policies.

Despite recent setbacks in negotiations, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has indicated a commitment to addressing labours demands, underscoring the governments ongoing efforts to implement a sustainable wage structure.
Frank E. Thompson Jr. (left) from Kansas City, Mo., and Ken Johnston, of Philadelphia on Tuesday. They will embark on a 51-mile walk from Galveston to Houston in honor of Juneteenth. Read more

Philadelphia walking artist Ken Johnston flew to Texas on Tuesday to get a start on a 51-mile Juneteenth Emancipation Walk in the state where the holiday started.

On June 19, 1865, about 2,000 Union troops, under the command of Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston to announce General Orders No. 3, a decree declaring freedom for enslaved Black people in Texas.

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It was not true that news of the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation had traveled slowly to Texas, according to the Zinn Education Project: It was about people in power keeping knowledge from Black people that they should have been freed two years earlier by the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863.

When the order was read, over 250,000 Black people were freed across Texas, Johnston said.

At the time, Houston was a small farming community and Galveston was the largest city in the state, with wealthy landowners, he said.

Johnston, 63, describes himself as a walking artist, who has made several long-distance walks marking civil rights, Underground Railroad, and abolition history. He founded Our Walk to Freedom to document his travels.

In Texas, Johnston will meet longtime friend and Texas native Frank E. Thompson Jr., of Kansas City, Mo., who will join him on the 51-mile walk from Galveston to Houston. The walk will end in Freedmens Town, a historic district in Houston where Black people, fleeing plantations in East Texas, started arriving in 1866 and built their own neighborhood.

Thompson, 57, grew up in Fort Worth celebrating Juneteenth, but never really learned the full story until he went to college.

The history is not taught in schools, said Thompson, the cofounder and CEO of a consulting firm in Kansas City.

For years, he did not realize that Juneteenth was unique to Texas, the last holdout among the Confederacy.

That was upsetting, because up until high school, I actually thought Juneteenth was the end of slavery for the whole nation, Thompson said.

The friends planned to make a short walk from Galveston to La Marque, Texas, on Tuesday evening. And on Juneteenth, they will start from La Marque to Houston, walking at least 12 miles a day, arriving there on Monday. To beat expected record-breaking Texas heat, Johnston said they will walk twice a day, early in the morning, from 5 to 9 a.m. and in the evening, from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

U.S. Colored Troops helped enforce emancipation

A little-known element that the Juneteenth National Observance Foundation uncovered was that there were 5,000 to 10,000 Black Union soldiers of the U.S. Colored Troops (USCT) who marched into Galveston at the same time as Granger.

These actions provided a powerful image to the islands enslaved people, who were oblivious to the fact that they had been granted freedom by Lincoln two years prior, said the Juneteenth Legacy Project. The city of Galveston is located on Galveston Island, a barrier island on the Texas Gulf Coast. But there are small communities on the island that are not part of Galveston City.

 READ MORE: Philly walking artist arrives in St. Catharines, Ontario, where Harriet Tubman once lived (from 2022)

Despite the wording of General Orders 3, which asked Black people to remain on the plantations and get paid for their work, many people fled to different Texas communities or left the state altogether.

For me, this walk is a chance to reconnect with my Texas roots, including ancestors who were probably part of the original Juneteenth exodus, Thompson said.

That exodus included some Black people who fled post-emancipation violence in Galveston and moved to Houston. Meanwhile, Johnston said the exodus went in two directions, with other Black residents leaving small towns to seek jobs in Galveston.

Emancipation Proclamation didnt end slavery in all states

The Emancipation Proclamation did not free enslaved people in other states, besides Texas, Johnston noted.

When President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in September 1862, it did not go into effect until Jan. 1, 1863. But the proclamation did not apply to enslaved Black people living in states that had not joined the Confederacy.

That means enslaved people in the border states of Delaware, Kentucky, Maryland, and Missouri were also kept enslaved in 1863.

 READ MORE: Last year, Ken Johnston walked to Canada tracing Harriet Tubmans walk to freedom. This week, he set out to explore Chester Countys site (from 2023)

Johnston believes what historian Sam Collins III told him: True freedom didnt really come until after the 13th Amendment was passed in December 1865.

After emancipation, Texas passed laws requiring Black people to carry a pass to travel across the state, as many did, looking for work, Thompson said.

If they didnt have a pass, either law enforcement or white militia units would detain Black people, throw them in jail, and they would be subject to convict labor, Thompson said. There was a resistance to letting go of this free labor.

The National Archives holds the original hand-written record of General Order No. 3, which states as follows:

The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them, becomes that between employer and hired labor. The Freedmen are advised to remain at their present homes, and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts; and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.
A new crop of officers graduated from the Philadelphia Police Academy on Monday. All 75 will be assigned to patrol Kensington, mostly on foot and bike. Read more

Kensingtons police force is expected to nearly triple this week with the arrival of 75 rookie officers fresh out of the academy, the most significant development yet in the citys latest campaign to dismantle the neighborhoods open-air drug market.

Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel said the new officers will patrol the area on foot and bicycle, and begin enforcing stricter drug laws this summer. Bethel said enforcement could increase very quickly after a warning period, which began last week, though he did not specify how soon.

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While some residents cheer the officers arrival, the bumpy lead-up to this phase of the plan for the neighborhood has left others with wariness and skepticism over whats next.

And after the chaotic removal of a homeless encampment last month and the wave of displacement that followed, concerns linger about whether the new resources will be effective in providing relief  or just shifting problems around the neighborhood and surrounding areas.

The rookies will report to the 24th Police District on Tuesday, and are expected to hit the streets later in the week in three shifts of about 40 officers at a time.

During the graduation ceremony Monday, city leaders spoke of the gravity of the task ahead.

Your deployment is going to be something different. Your deployment is going to be something never done in the history of our policing world, Bethel told the class. You will be deployed in one of the most challenging areas in Philadelphia and in America. Theres no playbook for this. Theres no playbook to dismantle the open drug market.

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker told the class, No. 402, Im forever going to remember you.

The people of Kensington, she said, have dealt with what I believe is one of the worst domestic humanitarian crises in our nation. Every day you go out there to do your work in Kensington, I want you to think about how the people who live there feel.

 READ MORE: Even as pandemic lockdowns ease, Kensingtons heroin economy thrives

Ahead of the new enforcement, city agencies conducted a quality-of-life sweep near G and Westmoreland Streets. On Thursday, 22 unregistered cars were towed, and seven stolen vehicles were taken into custody, said Sgt. Eric Gripp, a police department spokesperson. Nine vacant houses were sealed, 18 lots were cleaned, and four nuisance businesses were given stop-work orders.

The police departments narcotics unit has also been newly focused on the neighborhood, and will be for some time, Gripp said. In the last two weeks, he said, 49 people have been arrested for drug-related crimes, and officers recovered $255,000 worth of drugs, $16,000 in cash, and four guns.

Still, the number of arrests for drug sales so far this year is on par with the last four years, according to data from the district attorneys office.

One 23-year resident of Indiana Avenue along McPherson Square, a park at the center of the neighborhoods drug market, said an influx of officers would be a beautiful thing. The woman, who asked not to be identified out of concern for her safety, said that a few years ago she spoke with police after a homeless man was attacked by kids in the park. That night, she said, a rock was thrown through her front window.

She said she is supportive of Parkers plan to stabilize the area.

We need someone to care about this neighborhood, she said, though she worries about where the homeless will go.

After all, she said, she knows the pain of addiction all too well. Her daughter, who died four years ago of a heart attack, spent years addicted to drugs, as did her husband. She saw how it ripped her family apart  her granddaughter was swept up into the foster system, and one of her grandsons, with few people in his life to guide him, started selling drugs when he was just 15, she said.

The now 19-year-old father is trying to turn his life around, but with a criminal record and little work experience, she said, its hard.

Hell go back to the corner when he needs work, the woman said. He cant blame that on no one but himself.

Standards need to be set and laws followed, she said. If they dont arrest people, how will they know theyre not allowed to do that? she asked.

On G Street near Allegheny Avenue, a 37-year-old mother said she has little hope. She and her children dont trust the police, she said. She would rather ask a dealer for help than a police officer, she said, because at least they understand the needs of the community.

The dealers respect the residents, she said. They buy us groceries, they pay our bills if we need it. In Kensington, its all about one hand washing the other.

The root of the neighborhoods ills  poverty  will not be fixed by police, she said.

Were still going to take care of each other because the government doesnt care for us, she said.

A young dealer on the block, who asked not to be identified because he sells illegal drugs, agreed.

Its just gonna move to a different place, he said of the drug trade. You cant shut a way of life down. Were made to adapt.

Jossy Abellanez, 39, whose mother has lived on Westmoreland for 23 years, said she and her family welcome more police and feel safer outside than in previous months.

Its looking different, she said. Its good for the kids.

Just around the corner from Abellanez, a woman leaned against the side of a building, collecting her belongings scattered on the sidewalk: a white suitcase, a trick-or-treat bucket filled with drug paraphernalia. She asked not to be identified because she uses illegal drugs.

She said she lives in Delaware County but comes to Kensington for a few days at a time. She was aware that more police were coming to the neighborhood, she said, but wasnt concerned.

Their lil budget not gonna last, she said. The city, she said, cant afford the amount of resources and overtime it would take to address the issues: Its a cat-and-mouse game.

A man walked over to greet her. He had just driven in from the Northeast, he said, and needed help finding a fix, something strong that will knock me out cold.

Hes been addicted for five years  it started with percocets for back pain before those got too expensive  and similarly comes to the neighborhood for a few days at a time. Its been harder to find strong drugs lately, he said. Corners and dealers are moving around more quickly  a spot with good product one day is often selling garbage the next, he said.

He said he also wasnt worried about police. Hell believe it when he sees it.

He bought $5 worth of heroin from the woman, then rolled up a dollar bill and snorted it out of the small blue baggie.

Lets go, the woman told him. I got a place that can get you what you need.

They walked toward Allegheny Avenue, where Philadelphia police officers milled on one side, and a collection of dealers stood on the horizon.
When Marvin Pate and his wife opened Bliss, their Caribbean restaurant outside St. Louis, they were aiming for an upscale, luxe vibe. They put jollof rice and tropical cocktails on the menu, offered hookahs for patrons to enjoy  and they banned diners under the age of 30.

Since opening its doors in May, the restaurant has operated with an unusual age restriction, allowing in only women at least 30 and men at least 35, rules that the owners have been defending as necessary to maintain the kind of grown and sexy atmosphere theyre aiming for. This policy is in place to ensure a mature, sophisticated, and safe dining environment for everyone, the restaurant said in a Facebook post.

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The age restriction has polarized customers, but Pate and his team have defended them as needed to keep out a rowdy younger crowd. Its just something for the older people to come do and have a happy hour, come get some good food and not have to worry about some of the young folks who bring some of that drama, assistant manager Erica Rhodes told local news outlet KSDK News.

Happy hours are billed as a civilized experience: This is strictly for the grown and sexy, so were keeping it classy  ladies 30 and up, fellas 35 and up, Bliss posted on Facebook.

Jordan Johnson, who DJs Wednesday nights at the restaurant under the moniker DJ Durrty Burrd, said the policies have drawn crowds who appreciate older-school acts including Usher, Tevin Campbell, and Bobby Brown. Theres not a problem with a younger crowd, he said. But this provides an environment for us so we can be around like-minded people and people who have the same energy.

Many of their patrons seem to appreciate the restrictions. Some people wanna celebrate or kick it to a different vibe sometimes, one patron posted on Facebook. Bliss gives you that. I think this is what the city needs. And he had a message for young people: WERE TIRED OF YALL TEARING EVERYTHING UP!!!!!

But others chafed at the rules, with some suggesting that managers should simply crack down on unruly patrons if that is the problem. Age does not guarantee behavior, as there are individuals above the age of 30-35 who may still engage in disruptive behavior, one wrote. Its crucial to address the issue of behavior rather than solely focusing on age restrictions.

Some people wondered whether the rules would hurt Blisss bottom line at a time when many restaurants are struggling with rising costs and tighter-than-ever margins. Others, though, just seemed to be having fun with the idea. If u cant eat broccoli without cheese u aint old enough to get in Bliss, one wrote.

Pate told the local news outlet that he was undeterred by the criticism. Of course, we have been getting a little backlash, but thats OK because were sticking to our code, he told KSDK News.

Johnson seconded that: We are standing on this age restriction. Its a brand and vibe we are trying to protect, he said.

Legally, restaurants have the right to impose age limits because age is not a protected class in that context. Controversies around age restrictions usually have cropped up when restaurants ban children. Last year, Netties House of Spaghetti in New Jersey drew both rebuke and praise when it banned kids under 10, citing the noise and crazy messes they brought.

Its far less common for such rules to target adults. But there are exceptions: In San Antonio, Horizons & More bills itself as a 30-and-up destination for the grown & mature. And in New York, cocktail bar The Auction House imposes a 25-and-up policy on Fridays and Saturdays.

Two years ago, two TikTokers shared a tale of being turned away from Melodys Bar & Grill in Los Angeles because they werent old enough for the establishments 30-plus night. One response to the video seemed to come from someone who appreciated the idea of a 20-something-free zone: I know it hurts right now, but when you are 30 youll understand.

Amber Ferguson contributed to this report.
The website of the ChristianaCare Physicians Union, an effort by physicians at the Delaware nonprofit health system to form a union of attending physicians. Read more

Its hot outside, and temperatures are rising with unionization fever.

On this Juneteenth, we highlight a precedent-setting union vote by attending physicians working for Delawares largest health system, a new tool to explore racial disparities in pharmacy access, and an update on a CAR-T safety scare.

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Also, longtime health leaders are making career moves. Lets get into it!

 Got tips, questions, or suggestions? For a chance to be featured in this newsletter, email us back.

If someone forwarded you this newsletter, sign up here.

 Abraham Gutman and Aubrey Whelan, Inquirer health reporters, @abrahamgutman and @aubreywhelan.

A year after residents at Penn Medicines Philadelphia hospitals formed the regions largest new union in half a century, more than 400 attending physicians in Delawares ChristianaCare will start voting Thursday on whether to form a union of their own.

If approved, the union will be the first of its kind in the region for hospital physicians who have completed their training.

Physician burnout is among the grievances driving the unionization effort, including frustration over growing administrative burdens.

It all boils down to how much time I can spare with a patient, said Gennadiy Ryklin, a ChristianaCare hospitalist, who is among the union drive organizers. Now I feel that my job is about checking checkboxes.

The idea of joining a union was once inconceivable to many physicians, who used to work in practices that they co-owned. But times have changed. In the 1980s, three out of every four physicians was self-employed. By 2022, as many doctors had become employees of hospitals, health systems, and other corporate entities.

So whats next? ChristianaCare physicians will vote over the next week on whether they want to be represented by Doctors Council, an affiliate of SEIU. The physician organizers and the health system are each campaigning through websites, meetings, videos, and e-mails.

We will update you on the results!

 We want to hear your thoughts: if ChristianaCare physicians unionize, could other area health-care systems and hospitals be next?

Write back for a chance to be featured in next Wednesdays newsletter.

This weeks number: 0.087

Thats the number of pharmacies per 1,000 residents in 19150 ZIP code encompassing the Cederbrook and Stenton neighborhoods in northwest Philadelphia, where 91% of residents are Black.

Compare that to 0.31 in 19147  the Queen Village, Bella Vista area  where 8% of residents are Black, and 70% are white.

The numbers come from a new interactive tool developed by the Associated Press, which shows the number of pharmacies per 1,000 people in ZIP codes throughout the U.S. and the areas population by race.

Let us know what patterns you notice, or what this tool shows about access to pharmacies in your community.

Jefferson Abington Hospital was cited twice for safety violations in the first quarter of 2024. Both incidents involved behavioral health patients. On Feb. 16, inspectors cited the Montco hospital for failing to prevent a high-risk patient from falling by not monitoring the patient closely enough. A month later, the inspectors cited the hospital for a strangulation risk in two behavioral health patients rooms because of an 8-foot-long power cord that was part of a virtual monitoring system.

Learn more about the two incidents.

Planned Parenthood is closing one of its two clinics in Bucks County, citing the changing health-care environment. Aubrey spoke with Signe Espinoza, the head of Planned Parenthoods activist arm in Pennsylvania, about efforts underway to make abortion more accessible here.

Abortion is legal in Pennsylvania, but it sure as hell is not accessible, Espinoza said.

An end of an era: The longest serving health-system executive in the Philadelphia region is retiring.

Michael Laign had served as the CEO of Redeemer Health since 1993. But starting July 15, the nonprofit Catholic health system will have a new leader. Greg Wozniak, the CEO of St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne from 1999 to 2015, will take over as the systems chief executive officer.

In another change of a long-held leadership role: Della Payne will serve as Main Line Healths next general counsel effective September 1. Payne, currently a deputy general counsel, will succeed Brian Corbett, who will retire Nov. 1 after more than two decades in the role.

The risk of secondary cancer from CAR-T is lower than previously feared, according to an FDA official who spoke in King of Prussia last week.

The agency has been studying a handful of cases where patients developed lymphoma after CAR-T therapy, a treatment pioneered at Penn and hailed as a cure for some types of blood cancers. The fear was that the treatment is causing new cancers, and it was so concerning that the FDA ordered companies to put a black box warning on the products that were under review.

But very few were the result of the treatment. Thats what Peter Marks, who heads the FDAs Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, told the crowd at the 2024 @Philly Cell And Gene Therapy Annual Conference.

Luckily, the majority of these, it looks like are just secondary T cell malignancies that are occurring in people who have T cell malignancies. Thats a known phenomenon, Marks said.

Other concerns around the treatment that we have previously highlighted will likely be harder to address, such as racial disparities in who has access.

Thats it for us this week. We are getting into summer mode, and that usually means that our inboxes slow down a bit. So dont be shy and reach out  let us know what we should be looking into the summer. Whats the big health-care talker in your world?

 For a chance to be featured in this newsletter, email us back.

By submitting your written, visual, and/or audio contributions, you agree to The Inquirers Terms of Use, including the grant of rights in Section 10.
HOUSTON  Hundreds of thousands of immigrants had reason to rejoice when President Joe Biden unveiled a highly expansive plan to extend legal status to spouses of U.S. citizens but, inevitably, some were left out.

Claudia Zuniga, 35, married in 2017, or 10 years after her husband came to the United States. He moved to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, after they wed, knowing that, by law, he had to live outside the country for years to gain legal status. Our lives took a 180-degree turn, she said.

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Biden announced Tuesday that his administration will, in coming months, allow U.S. citizens spouses without legal status to apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship without having to first depart the country for up to 10 years. About 500,000 immigrants may benefit, according to senior administration officials.

To qualify, an immigrant must have lived in the United States for 10 years and be married to a U.S. citizen, both as of Monday. Zunigas husband is ineligible because he wasnt in the United States.

Imagine, it would be a dream come true, said Zuniga, who works part time in her fathers transportation business in Houston. My husband could be with us. We could focus on the well-being of our children.

Every immigration benefit  even those as sweeping as Bidens election-year offer  has a cutoff date and other eligibility requirements. In September, the Democratic president expanded temporary status for nearly 500,000 Venezuelans who were living in the United States on July 31, 2023. Those who had arrived a day later were out of luck.

The Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which has shielded from deportation hundreds of thousands of people who came to the United States as young children and is popularly known as DACA, required applicants be in the United States on June 15, 2012, and continuously for the previous five years.

About 1.1 million spouses who are in the country illegally are married to U.S. citizens, according to advocacy group FWD.us, meaning hundreds of thousands wont qualify because they were in the United States for less than 10 years.

Immigration advocates were generally thrilled with the scope of Tuesdays announcement, just as Bidens critics called it a horribly misguided giveaway.

Angelica Martinez, 36, wiped away tears as she sat next to her children, ages 14 and 6, and watched Bidens announcement at the Houston office of FIEL, an immigrant advocacy group. A U.S. citizen since 2013, she described a flood of emotions, including regret that her husband couldnt travel to Mexico when his mother died five years ago.

Sadness, joy all at the same time, said Martinez, whose husband arrived in Houston 18 years ago.

Brenda Valle of Los Angeles, whose husband has been a U.S. citizen since 2001 and, like her, was born in Mexico, renews her DACA permit every two years. We can start planning more long-term, for the future, instead of what we can do for the next two years, she said.

Magdalena Gutierrez of Chicago, who has been married to a U.S. citizen for 22 years and has three daughters who are U.S. citizens, said she had a little more hope after Bidens announcement. Gutierrez, 43, is eager to travel more across the United States without fearing an encounter with law enforcement that could lead to her being deported.

Allyson Batista, a retired Philadelphia teacher and U.S. citizen, who married her Brazilian husband 20 years ago, recalled being told by lawyer that he could leave the country for 10 years or remain in the shadows and wait for a change in the law.

Initially, when we got married, I was naive and thought, OK, but Im American. This isnt going to be a problem. Were going to fix this, Batista said. I learned very early on that we were facing a pretty dire circumstance and that there would be no way for us to move forward in an immigration process successfully.

The couple raised three children who are pursuing higher education. Batista is waiting for the details of how her husband can apply for a green card.

Im hopeful, Batista said. The next 60 days will really tell. But, obviously more than thrilled because every step forward is a step towards a final resolution for all kinds of immigrant families.

About 50,000 noncitizen children with parents who are married to a U.S. citizen could also potentially qualify, according to senior administration officials who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity. Biden also announced new regulations that will allow some DACA beneficiaries and other young immigrants to more easily qualify for long-established work visas.
Clocking in at 111 pages and covering 12 years of development history and real estate wrangling in Camden, Mondays mammoth indictment of South Jersey Democratic power broker George Norcross and five allies was filled with insider details and new insights destined to be overshadowed by the larger news of the charges brought within it.

Broadly, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has accused Norcross and the others of using their political influence and control over local government to muscle out rivals in the lucrative development of Camdens waterfront  allegations Norcross has dismissed as a political hit job.

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Here are some other  yet no less interesting  takeaways from prosecutors summation of their case.

 READ MORE: Read the full 13-count indictment against South Jersey power broker George Norcross

Big business in waterfront real estate

The indictment underscored the large sums of money that Norcross, businesses associated with him, and his allies took in through New Jerseys 2013 state tax credit program and the real estate transactions at the heart of the criminal case.

For instance, Norcross insurance brokerage  Conner Strong & Buckelew  has been awarded $8.6 million in tax credits as of 2023, which it later conveyed to other business in exchange for $7.9 million, a transaction enabled by provisions of the 2013 law. As the companys executive chairman, Norcross has been paid handsomely for the business success, taking home $29 million in salary from the company between 2012 and 2023, according to the indictment.

Meanwhile, Cooper University Health Care  the Camden-based hospital network for which Norcross serves as board chairman  won $27 million in tax credits between 2016 and 2022, which it has sold for $25 million. Those sales, according to the indictment, have allowed it to fully cover the annual $3.8 million rental cost for its headquarters at the 575,000-square-foot office complex on Federal Street known as L3.

The indictment alleges that Norcross and his allies strong-armed a local nonprofit out of a deal to buy the building in 2013, steering the sale instead to an investor group they preferred. Cooper Health later gained a 49% ownership stake in the building, entitling it to nearly half the profits earned from its other tenants.

Likewise, after allegedly muscling Philadelphia developer Carl Dranoff out of development rights to another parcel on Cooper Street in Camden, Norcross and other investors went on to build the apartment complex 11 Cooper there. The complex received $3.5 million in tax credits between 2022 and 2023 and sold them for $4.3 million.

Norcross has stressed that for as much money hes taken in from his business dealings in Camden, he and his business partners have invested significantly in the city, pumping more than $300 million into development there.

 READ MORE: Who is George Norcross? A look at the indicted South Jersey power broker

Philip Norcross alleged role in the criminal enterprise

If George Norcross sat atop what prosecutors are calling the the Norcross Enterprise  the alleged racketeering operation at the heart of their case  his brother Philip served as its fixer.

Philip Norcross, CEO of the Mount Laurel law firm Parker McCay, is referenced throughout the indictment conveying his brothers demands to rivals and meeting with local government officials to ensure George Norcross interests remained protected.

I try to practice as little law as possible  just for laughs and giggles, he told a group of allies in a September 2013 meeting quoted in the indictment. My siblings and I get around  the table and decide what Georges agenda is in Camden.

Philip Norcross and his law firm played a central role in shaping the 2013 tax credit legislation that set off the development boom along Camdens waterfront that forms the backdrop for prosecutors case. Working with another Norcross ally, then-Senate President Stephen Sweeney, prosecutors say, he sent over line-item revisions to the tax credit bill that were later adopted as part of the law.

Once that tax incentive program was approved and the Norcrosses began eyeing waterfront property for development, it was Philip Norcross who, according to the indictment, muscled the CEO of the community development nonprofit Coopers Ferry out of the deal to buy the L3 building that now serves as headquarters to Cooper Health.

Though Philip Norcross had no financial stake in the property and no role at Coopers Ferry, Camden City officials repeatedly instructed the nonprofits then-CEO Anthony Perno to meet with Philip and to follow his instructions about the land deal, the indictment says.

Philip Norcross pushed Perno to abandon a developer Coopers Ferry had earlier lined up and partner instead with two other investors, preferred by George Norcross, instead. If Perno refused, the indictment alleges, it was made clear to him that Coopers Ferry would suffer repercussions.

 READ MORE: New Jersey tax credits turned a Camden office complex into a lucrative investment. Now the feds and state AG are investigating

Perno eventually acceded to Philip Norcross demands and sided with the Norcrosses preferred partners. Then in 2014 Coopers Ferry sold its rights to the L3 development for a net $125,000, far less than the millions it had expected to earn from the more actively involved ownership of the building it had originally envisioned.

When years later, George Norcross found himself at odds with Dranoff, the Philadelphia developer, over another parcel of land along the waterfront, Philip Norcross helped him achieve his desired outcome there, too.

At the time, Dranoff was hoping to sell the Victor Building, a luxury apartment complex he helped develop in 2003, but he needed Camden City officials to agree to transfer a beneficial tax arrangement hed enjoyed during his ownership to the potential buyers.

Philip Norcross urged city officials to slow down approving the transfer and met regularly with elected officials and other stakeholders about the issue, according to the indictment, even though he didnt have any formal role with the city or financial or legal interest in Dranoffs building. They did not grant Dranoff the approvals he needed, and ultimately, his deal to sell the Victor fell through.

The indictment also accuses Philip Norcross of plotting with his brother and others to have the Camden Redevelopment Agency condemn another nearby property Dranoff owned to force him to accede to other demands.

Philip Norcross lawyer, Kevin Marino, has denied his client did anything improper.

What is in this indictment that is outside the lines of appropriate negotiations? Marino said in an interview Tuesday. He added: Ive never seen a thinner indictment. I have never seen a set of allegations that I feel more confident should never have been brought.

 READ MORE: What to know about the racketeering indictment against South Jersey power broker George Norcross

Norcross and his allies misled the media and a judge, prosecutors say

To cover up their conduct, the indictment says, Norcross and his allies routinely made false or misleading statements to the media and the courts.

As news outlets including ProPublica and The Inquirer began writing articles in 2019 about the pressure the Norcrosses exerted on Coopers Ferry during the L3 deal, Norcross spokespeople pushed back with a number of claims prosecutors now characterized as false, including that the nonprofit wasnt capable of purchasing the building.

In fact, the indictment says, Coopers Ferry had an agreement in principle with a well-known developer to complete the transaction.

In another instance, Norcross lawyer William Tambussi, who was also charged in Mondays indictment, allegedly misled a Superior Court judge about the role the Norcross brothers had played in a push to pressure Dranoff to give up an easement he held protecting the views from his Victor Building apartment complex.

The indictment accuses the Norcrosses of using threats, intimidation and their control over Camden City government to effectively force Dranoff to sell the easement rights in 2016 for less than he thought it was worth.

Dranoff later sued the City of Camden over his continued frustrations with his efforts to do business in the city. As the case neared trial last fall, Dranoff sought to introduce evidence that his difficulties in Camden dated back to that 2016 dispute with the Norcross team over the easement rights.

But Tambussi  a longtime Norcross lawyer who represented the city in the litigation with Dranoff  sought to block Dranoff from mentioning either George or Philip Norcross at the trial, arguing that they werent relevant to the deal and that Dranoffs negotiations over the easement had occurred with another developer.

Prosecutors maintained Monday that, in fact, Dranoffs negotiations with that developer had been consummated at the insistence of the Norcrosses and their other business partners.

Tambussi on Monday said he was proud of his legal work for Camden and astounded by the charges.

 READ MORE: George Norcross probe: Two South Jersey transit officials charged with using authority to exact political revenge

The Norcrosses helped Camdens mayor land a new job

The indictment portrays former Camden Mayor Dana Redd, who was also charged Monday along with Norcross and his brother, as a willing ally of their development plans in the city. When she left office in 2018, they allegedly helped her land a lucrative job as CEO of the Rowan University / Rutgers-Camden Board of Governors.

But that required moving others out the way. The indictment details a complicated game of musical chairs that culminated in Redd securing the position, which came with a $275,000 annual salary  a significant pay bump over the $102,000 a year she was paid as mayor.

But first, her predecessor in the role, Kris Kolluri, had to be set up with another job. According to the indictment, Norcross and his allies had the perfect position in mind  Pernos job at Coopers Ferry following his falling out with Norcross over the L3 deal.

In late 2017  as Redds term as mayor neared its end  one of Coopers Ferrys cochairs, former Cherry Hill Mayor Susan Bass Levin, told Perno he needed to leave his $242,000-a-year job as the nonprofits CEO so that Kolluri could step into the role instead, prosecutors said.

She warned him, according to the indictment, that if he resisted, they would just make up something about him and use it as grounds to fire him. In late 2017, Perno asked whether Coopers Ferry would agree to restructure his severance package to better compensate him for the cost of leaving. But Levin told Perno that wouldnt work either.

It doesnt give me cover with George, she said in a secretly recorded conversation with the nonprofit CEO quoted in the indictment. You cant go there. You dont want that fight.  If you dont think he cant get to anybody he wants to, youre kidding yourself.

Eventually, Perno agreed to resign as CEO. Kolluri moved into his old job, vacating his spot as CEO of the Rowan University / Rutgers-Camden Board of Governors, and Redd moved into that position.

In 2022, she was named CEO of Camden Community Partnership, the name under which Coopers Ferry rebranded itself in 2021.

Neither Levin nor Redds attorney, Henry Klingeman, has responded to requests for comment.

New Jersey politics is a blood sport

While unveiling the indictment at a news conference Monday, Platkin described New Jersey politics as a blood sport. It didnt take long for that observation to be born out.

Typically, high-profile criminal defendants speak through their attorneys and reserve their sharpest barbs for the courtroom. Norcross, however, stared down Platkin from a seat in the front row of the news conference.

Afterward, he publicly attacked Platkin in deeply personal terms, calling him a coward and a politician masquerading as an attorney general. Norcross referenced a messy 2018 scandal in which Platkins handling of rape allegations involving a staffer on Gov. Phil Murphys 2017 campaign drew criticism from a state Senate committee full of Norcross allies.

At the time, Platkin was serving as chief counsel to Murphys administration. The Senate committee concluded that the governors office had seriously mishandled the sexual misconduct complaints from its former campaign employee. It specifically blasted Platkin for sloppy legal decisions and questioned the credibility of his testimony before the committee. The incident arose again during Platkins 2022 confirmation hearings for the attorney general post.

 READ MORE: My voice went unheard: Official testifies N.J. Gov. Murphy campaign, administration ignored sexual assault allegation

The episode had left Platkin humiliated, Norcross insisted Monday, and seeking political revenge.

As Norcross and his lawyers see it, Mondays indictment is the culmination of years of bad blood between him and the attorney general  a feud further fueled by the role Platkin, while still working for Murphys administration, played in a 2019 task force that questioned the propriety of millions of dollars in state tax breaks awarded to several companies linked to Norcross.

Despite the headlines generated by the task forces work, its efforts to rescind those tax credits have been shot down in court. Norcross and his lawyers dismissed Mondays indictment as little more than a warmed-over version of the task forces already stale allegations.

Now, Im sending a message to Matt Platkin, Michael Critchley told a crowd of reporters Monday afternoon. Buckle up.
South Jersey power broker George E. Norcross III looks on as his lawyers speak to reporters at the Richard J. Hughes Justice Complex in Trenton after his indictment on racketeering charges Monday. Read more

George E. Norcross III has spent the better part of the last two decades on the radar of state and federal authorities, who despite launching multiple investigations into his business dealings have never brought charges against him.

That changed this week as New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin unveiled a sprawling racketeering indictment against the South Jersey power broker and five allies. Within the 13-count indictment are signs of the years of earlier investigations that preceded it.

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Peppered throughout the charging documents are nearly a dozen references to contemporaneous recordings of phone calls and meetings in which Norcross and others discussed the real estate deals at the heart of the case. The tapes referenced in the indictment date as far back as 2013  well before Platkins investigation began  and continue through periods of time in which other earlier investigations of Norcross were occurring.

 READ MORE: New Jersey politics is a blood sport and other key takeaways from prosecutors case against S. Jersey power broker George Norcross

In one of them  a recorded 2016 phone call  Norcross admits to threatening Philadelphia real estate developer Carl Dranoff, with whom he was feuding at the time, the indictment says.

He said, Are you threatening me?  Norcross reportedly told a confidante on the call, as he recalled a conversation with Dranoff. I said, Absolutely. 

Some of the recordings described in the indictment were made during the same period the FBI was tapping Norcross phones in an unrelated investigation into Philadelphia labor leader John J. Dougherty. The Inquirer has previously reported agents were listening in on Norcross phone calls from July through late August 2016, then picked up again in October for about a month. Norcross wasnt charged or accused of any wrongdoing in that investigation.

Mondays indictment also described a previously undisclosed FBI interview with Norcross in 2016 in which he discussed a Camden nonprofit that prosecutors now say was the victim of the power brokers extortion.

 READ MORE: What to know about the racketeering indictment against South Jersey power broker George Norcross

How many recordings of Norcross and his allies investigators have obtained remains unclear, as does who made them and where exactly they came from. During his news conference announcing the indictment Monday, Platkin credited the U.S. Attorneys Offices in Philadelphia and New Jersey for earlier work that contributed to his investigation.

The tapes could raise the stakes if the case against Norcross heads to trial.

I can tell you that there is nothing more powerful in a criminal prosecution than hearing a tape recording, said Ed Stier, a former state and federal prosecutor who served as director of the New Jersey Division of Criminal Justice. You cant cross examine it.

But to Norcross, Platkins use of recordings seemingly made during other investigations that went nowhere is a sign that the case is light on evidence and brought by an attorney general fueled by political ambition.

During an interview Tuesday, Michael Critchley, an attorney for Norcross, dismissed the recordings as antiquated material that has been in the governments possession for almost a decade by multiple law enforcement agencies.

He also suggested some of the recordings may have captured conversations involving Norcross and his attorneys  raising the possibility that his defense team could argue the government violated attorney-client privelege.

They looked at these recordings, they examined these records and found no wrongdoing, Critchley said, noting that prior investigations didnt result in charges. Those recordings amount to nothing based upon the fact that law enforcement agencies that previously reviewed it did nothing. So from nothing comes nothing.

 READ MORE: Who is George Norcross? A look at the indicted South Jersey power broker

Enormous consequences

Among the earliest recordings of Norcross mentioned in the indictment is one from August 2016.

At the time, Norcross was working with Malvern-based real estate investment firm Liberty Property Trust to acquire parcels of land and property rights to build the office tower for his insurance brokerage and other partners, including logistics company NFI and development firm The Michaels Organization. Norcross and executives at those companies, who were charged alongside Norcross on Monday, also hoped to partner on a proposed residential project nearby.

But they faced several obstacles, chief among them Dranoff, who held property and development rights to several parcels on the waterfront. Years earlier, Dranoff had developed the Victor Building, the first market-rate apartment complex in Camden in decades, and was granted what is known as a view easement that protected its views of the Philadelphia skyline.

That limited how high other developers  including Norcross investor group  could build in the surrounding area. For months, Dranoff had been negotiating with Liberty Property Trust over selling his view easement to make way for the development Norcross envisioned.

Those talks were dragging on, and Norcross group couldnt yet apply for state tax credits under the Economic Opportunity Act that would make the deal financially viable. (Prosecutors say the 2013 law that created those tax breaks was shaped by Norcross and his brother, Philip, as part of their criminal enterprise.)

According to the indictment, on Aug. 22, 2016, George Norcross told Liberty CEO William P. Hankowsky that it would be a bad thing for the city if Norcross had to walk away from the project, and it would be humiliating for me.

Thats why Im so irritated by [Dranoffs] crap, Norcross said, in a recorded conversation quoted in the prosecutors court filing.

 READ MORE: In legal brawl over Camden waterfront, developer alleges shakedown involving power broker George Norcross

Frustrated by the lack of progress, on Oct. 20, 2016, the indictment says, Norcross threatened Dranoff, warning that there would be consequences if he didnt relent.

The next day, Norcross recounted that conversation to a confidante during another recorded conversation highlighted in Mondays indictment.

I said, [Dranoff], this is unacceptable. If you do this, it will have enormous consequences, Norcross said, according to the filing.

Condemn his ass

The most detailed recorded conversations referenced in the indictment involved a purported plan to use the Camden Redevelopment Agency  a government entity represented by the law firm of Norcross ally William Tambussi, who was also charged Monday  to attack Dranoff by condemning his view easement.

On Oct. 21, 2016, a day after the indictment says Norcross told a friend hed warned Dranoff of enormous consequences for refusing to agree to a deal on his property rights, an agreement emerged and was memorialized in an email, according to the indictment.

But it fell apart later that same day. In a recorded conversation, Norcross spoke with his brother Philip and mentioned the plan involving the redevelopment agency and Tambussi: I just talked to Tambussi.  I want to go in. I want to encourage Tambussi to do his thing  I think we just do it. F  em. F  em. Just do it.

The next day, Norcross convened a conference call with Philip Norcross, Tambussi, and his partners on the office project, Sidney Brown, CEO of NFI, and John J. ODonnell, an executive at The Michaels Organization.

I dont even know why were dealing with [Dranoff]  [T]he city ought to condemn his ass and just move on, George Norcross is quoted as saying in the indictments recounting of the recorded conversation.

Hes gonna come under some very serious accusations from the City of Camden which are gonna basically suggest that hes not a reputable person, and hes done nothing but try to impede the progress of the city, Norcross continued. You can never trust him until you got a bat over his head.

 READ MORE: Camden accuses Dranoff of bilking city out of $9 million from Victor apartments tax break

Tambussi noted on the call that if a court authorized the citys condemnation of Dranoffs view easement, the value of his property rights would come down to virtually nothing  benefiting the Norcross groups negotiating position, the indictment says.

On multiple occasions during the call, Brown asked questions clarifying the purpose of using the Camden Redevelopment Agency to go after Dranoff.

Let me just make sure, is the goal here really to try and put some pressure on [Dranoff] to sign what we just tried to get signed? he asked the others at one point.

George Norcross responded: Of course. Either that or condemn it, so we can move expeditiously 

 READ MORE: George Norcross probe: Two South Jersey transit officials charged with using authority to exact political revenge

He also floated another point of attack on Dranoff, who he referred to as a putz: The city could revoke an option he held to redevelop another parcel nearby, a vacant property known as Radio Lofts. Philip Norcross chimed in that Tambussis condemnation plan offered the best chance to kill the view easement.

The indictment doesnt indicate who recorded the men hatching those plans. The conversation does overlap with the period the FBI was wiretapping Norcross phone as part of the Dougherty investigation.

Ultimately Norcross and the others didnt follow through with their condemnation idea. Liberty declined to cooperate, the indictment says, and instead offered to pay Dranoff more out of its own end of the deal.

On Oct. 24  the same day the Norcross group had planned to have the CRA go after Dranoff in court  Dranoff agreed to sell his view easement for $1.95 million, below what he thought it was worth, as well as other property rights, prosecutors say. That would clear the way for the Norcross groups office tower, known as Triad1828 Centre, and the 11 Cooper apartment complex.

Kidding yourself

Other people in Norcross orbit were secretly recorded as well, including as far back as 2013, in the aftermath of the passage of the tax-incentive legislation.

Philip Norcross was recorded telling acquaintances in a September 2013 meeting that he practices as little law as possible and instead focuses on Georges agenda in Camden, according to the indictment.

Four years later, when George Norcross wanted to install a political ally at the helm of the nonprofit Coopers Ferry, his associates advised the organizations chief executive to resign.

Susan Bass Levin, a former Cherry Hill mayor installed as the nonprofits cochair by Norcross and his allies, told CEO Anthony Perno that nothing could stop George Norcross from getting what he wanted, the indictment says. Levin isnt mentioned in the indictment by name, but she fits the description of a person identified in the charging document as CC-1, who prosecutors say was the CEO of Cooper Healths philanthropic arm, the Cooper Foundation.

Perno left the nonprofit in 2017.

If you dont think [Norcross] cant get to anybody he wants to, Levin told Perno in a recorded conversation recorded shortly before his decision to resign, youre kidding yourself.
Wildwoods Seasquatch is one of the new attractions for beachgoers at the boardwalk and around town. Read more

WILDWOOD, N.J.  The Wildwood Seasquatch is explaining itself.

Im on a much lower plane than these historic mascots, he says, with unexpected humility, referring to Phillys legendary hierarchy of undefinable mascots: Gritty, the Phanatic, and maybe even Swoop.

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All the mascots out there are definitely influences, Seasquatch says.

An odd combination of Gritty, Bigfoot, and if Lucy the Elephant were a guy in a costume running around Margate, the Wildwood Seasquatch is trying to go viral.

At first, the Seasquatch and its DIY handlers played up the mythical Bigfoot vibe, showing up unexpectedly at night on a lonely street, clad only in a Sasquatch costume, posting grainy security footage of sightings on the boardwalk, trying to spread a vague Seasquatch origin story, about a super Shoobie creature who had landed on the island.

But now, the Seasquatch has morphed into something a bit more lovable, from myth to mascot, say: a friendly sort, though occasionally jump-scary: a guy in a hairy Sasquatch costume rebranded for Wildwood with a surfing Seasquatch T-shirt.

(The local businessman behind the Seasquatch doesnt want to be identified publicly because, he says, hes not doing it to promote his own business. He says he and a colleague thought of the idea of bringing a series of Bigfoot could it be real type sightings to Wildwood to bring attention and fun to the place, and the colleague just went out and bought the costume.)

The creature might jump out at you from behind your seat in the tram car, delighting in the startle and, usually, the laugh. (He says reactions range from love it to total ambivalence.)

Want to take a photo? he asks.

Sunshine! he calls out to a woman on a bike.

The Wildwood Seasquatch joins the ranks of self-styled mascots at the Jersey Shore, like the legendary A.C. Batman, who haunts the seashore casino city to the north, often by bicycle.

The Wildwood Seasquatch tends to travel by car.

Last Tuesday, he was doing his Seasquatching thing near the Wildwoods beach ball sign by the Convention Center. He seemed most comfortable peering out with his crooked smile between the D and the W.

It raises the question: Wasnt Wildwood already weird enough without a local businessman in a Bigfoot costume showing up all over town?

But Seasquatch is catching on.

JaNyizha Lane, a 7-year-old Lancaster girl, gave the mascot a thumbs up, as did most passersby. A few recognized Seasquatch from its Facebook page.

He is not as tall as you might expect, so the Wildwood Seasquatch prefers to stand on a bench behind his admirers for the photos. (He claims to be 7-foot-4, with the bench.)

Tag the Wildwood Seasquatch on Facebook, he unfailingly reminds them.

Last summers viral Wildwood mascot, Moreys Piers Sunny the Seagull, seems all but forgotten in the Seasquatch craze. Sunnys boardwalk presence is now mostly relegated to a bunch of knockoff plush seagull dolls with french fries in their beaks, literally hanging by a thread against the walls of storefront arcades.

Sunny and Seasquatch have met. Sunny is taller.

Hes quite a hairy man, noted one passerby, with admiration and perhaps a wee bit of longing in her voice.

Seasquatch offers to pose as if hes sleeping under the boardwalk, but is gently discouraged by Louis Belasco, executive director of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority, whos come along for the photo shoot.

He does a Marilyn Monroe shot on a bench instead. Hes nothing if not game.

He was photographed by multiple media outlets at Donald Trumps rally on the beach holding a Seasquatch for President sign.

Giving people alternatives, offers Belasco.

Seasquatch has been leaving clues around the Shore town to find little wooden Seasquatch tokens with various designs, which are redeemable for prizes at local businesses. The clues are posted on Facebook. Hes popping up at local businesses and posting on social media.

Thats the point, says the guy inside the Seasquatch costume. (Any mascot worth his fur will never admit to a human inside.)

(Still, our earnest and enthusiastic Shore superhero couldnt help but call out to someone he knows passing by, You know who this is?)

Logan Dugan, a 17-year-old from Gilbertsville, Pa., on senior week, compared Seasquatch favorably to Gritty.

Ive met Gritty, he said. They look like cousins, big and hairy.

Seasquatch makes conversation with Dugan and his friends about the loss of the old Zerns Farmers Market in Gilbertsville. Seasquatch is nothing if not garrulous, even through the muffle of the full head mask.

A bit unmoored, hes not attached to a team, or regulated by a game.

All of it is volunteer.

The Wildwood(s) tourism officials have latched onto his shtick as a way to promote a family friendly image of their beloved collection of beach towns, known, at least lately, for the not-quite-massive Donald Trump beach rally, a declaration of a state of emergency due to civil unrest on the boardwalk over Memorial Day Weekend, and some of the most profane T-shirts sold anywhere in the country, none of which can be quoted here.

The unnamed businessman is happy to give back.

Like the Seasquatch, he started life in Pennsylvania and then made his home in Wildwood, where business, especially the past few years, has been booming. The Wildwoods owe me nothing, he says. I owe them everything.

And now a few rapid-fire questions for Seasquatch, slam-book style
A photo of the James A. Byrne Federal Courthouse in Philadelphia, Pa., in 2021. Read more

A 29-year-old Mississippi man on Tuesday pleaded guilty in federal court in Philadelphia to cyberstalking for making terrorizing phone calls to Jewish synagogues and delicatessens in the Philadelphia region, U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced.

Donavon Parish, of Hattiesburg, Miss., also pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Cynthia M. Rufe to five counts of abuse and harassment using a telecommunications device, and he admitted to a special finding that he targeted his victims based on their actual and perceived religion.

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James McHugh, a federal defender representing Parish, said in an emailed statement that his client had accepted responsibility for his conduct and pled guilty today.

As he told the judge in court he is ashamed by his actions in the spring of 2022. Each and every day since his arrest he has taken steps to ensure that this will never happen again, McHugh wrote.

Parish, using a voice-over-internet-protocol that allowed him to anonymously make phone calls, targeted three synagogues and three delicatessens during a two-month period in 2022.

In these calls, the defendant spoke to individuals answering the telephone calls on behalf of their respective institutions, at which time he repeatedly referenced the genocide of approximately six million Jewish people during the Holocaust, stating, among other things, Heil Hitler, all Jews must die, we will put you in work camps, gas the Jews, and Hitler should have finished the job, the U.S. Attorneys Office said in a news release.

Parish was indicted last year.

In the government plea memorandum filed Tuesday, prosecutors briefly described the calls and the impact they had on the victims.

One delicatessen located in Montgomery County was called at least 15 times.

The calls were reported to a local police department and when an officer called Parishs number back, he answered, prosecutors said. The officer asked whether Parish had called the deli, to which Parish said yes, and then declared that all Jews need to die and Heil Hitler. When the officer asked Parish for his identifying information, he hung up.

After Parish called and made threatening statements to a synagogue that operated a pre-kindergarten and religious schools, those schools were placed on high alert, prosecutors said. Teachers took precautions, including locking their doors.

A victim at another synagogue was left shaken and on the verge of tears after a call from Parish, prosecutors said. The synagogue also operated a school and did not allow students to leave the building until their parents came to get them.

Antisemitism has no place in our society, Wayne A. Jacobs, special agent in charge of the FBI in Philadelphia, said in a statement. Todays guilty plea reinforces that we will pursue justice against those who threaten members of our communities with such vile threats.

No sentencing date was listed in court records.

Parish has a police record in Mississippi for making abusive calls, Southern Jewish Life magazine reported.
Members of the Camara Arts & Tyehimba perform at the start of a Juneteenth celebration last year at the African American Museum in Center City. Read more

As we commemorate Juneteenth  the annual celebration of Black freedom in America  I am awestruck when I contemplate our ongoing journey.

On one hand, African Americans are seemingly locked in a permanent struggle as we seek to grab hold of the rights our country has promised. On the other hand, weve experienced the kind of progress that is only achieved when determination is connected to miracles.

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Last week alone, in Philadelphia, Americas birthplace, I spoke with Cherelle L. Parker, a Black woman, and the citys first female mayor. I also spoke with Kevin J. Bethel, the citys Black police commissioner. And as I look back at my votes for the first Black president, Barack Obama, and my various interviews with Kamala Harris, Americas first Black female vice president, I am keenly aware that Ive had a front-row seat to my peoples meteoric rise.

It is a rise that is even more astounding when one considers what weve overcome to get here. We are reminded of that journey on Juneteenth  the federal holiday that celebrates the June day in 1865 when Union troops marched into Galveston, Texas, and told the last of the enslaved that they were free. But even now, with Black people taking positions of power, we are facing social and political backlash. In order to overcome it, we will need the same determination that got us here. We will need to understand what blocks our path.

Black Americans must first recognize that our perceptions of racism in America are real, and not figments of our imagination. We are not stuck in a time warp. We are not mired in bitterness. We are not collectively adopting nonsensical conspiracy theories.

However, when even the most well-intentioned white people study how Black people view race in America, they often start with the premise that African Americans are engaged in mass delusion.

For example, the Pew Research Center recently conducted a study on Black peoples adoption of what researchers called racial conspiracy theories. Pew defined conspiracy theories as ideas Black Americans might have about the actions of U.S. institutions that dont necessarily align with the stated goals of the institution.

Someone must have called them out on their use of the phrase racial conspiracy theories, and Pew has since added an editors note admitting it may not have chosen its words wisely. By using these words, the report now reads, our reporting distorted rather than clarified the point of the study.

Pews research found that more than 80% of Black Americans surveyed believed that Black people are more likely to be incarcerated because prisons want to make money on the backs of Black people. And more than 60% of Black adults surveyed agreed that institutions like the criminal justice system, Americas economic system, and policing are designed to hold Black people back. Pew also found that most Black Americans dont trust the media.

The problem is that most of these opinions are not based on fictional beliefs. They are firmly grounded in fact.

Black people are disproportionately jailed in Americas prisons. The Sentencing Project has also found that Black Americans are more likely to face arrest, conviction, and harsher sentencing than our white counterparts.

Bank officers literally drew red lines around Black communities on maps and refused to lend there. Today, banks still disproportionately deny mortgages to Black people, even when our income and credit scores are the same as white borrowers. Our homes are even appraised at lower values when appraisers find out Black people live there.

Our distrust of media is not some wild-eyed conspiracy, either. Newspapers across the country, including the Los Angeles Times, the Kansas City Star, and even The Inquirer, have admitted that their coverage of Black communities was grounded in racism, and they have apologized.

But change does not come easy. Black people know that better than most.

Thats why, as African Americans celebrate and reflect on the progress weve made this Juneteenth, we also acknowledge that the fight for equal rights goes on.

In my view, the same Black leaders who are symbols of our progress are routinely held to a higher standard than their white counterparts. Philadelphias mayor and police commissioner are somehow expected to clean up the chaos of Kensingtons open-air drug market in a month. Harris is expected to save the Biden administration from the onslaught of right-wing vitriol. Black prosecutors and judges are expected to successfully hold a former president to account.

As lofty as those expectations may be, the progress weve made since the first Juneteenth tells me that anything is possible. When a people have repeatedly lifted the unbearable weight of racism, we are strong enough to lift America.
Clean living

Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers cleanup initiative is to be applauded, but the thought process is backward. It is great to clean up the layers of trash, but how did the trash get there in the first place? This is the question that should be asked and addressed to implement a solution. Is there a cultural problem in Philadelphia (and other large cities) that accepts the populace discarding trash improperly? An anti-littering initiative  with consequences for offenders  would make more sense. Prevention.

Richard Smith, Lansdale, rgrantsmith@lansdale.us

The Y factor

A recent article shared great news about decreasing gun violence numbers in Philadelphia, but The Inquirer couldnt seem to imagine a version of success based on anything but punitive enforcement. Neither thought nor mention was given to the many community organizations that are actively working for peace or the tens of thousands of dollars distributed under anti-violence grant initiatives. A vast neighborhood movement has been underway, addressing violence through mentorship, community-building, food distribution, diversionary programming, etc.  all focused on restoring our community.

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Nor did The Inquirer consider the possibility that, after six years, the seeds planted by reform-minded District Attorney Larry Krasner might be bearing fruit. The purposeful reduction in years of supervision that started in 2018 means that, in 2024, many men are finally returning to their neighborhoods. We know, empirically, that an increase in fathers and male mentors in communities corresponds with a decrease in violent crimes. Given that most incarcerated Philadelphians are Black, male, and from the neighborhoods most plagued by crime, might this deep drop in crime be proof of Krasners concept? After four years of talking about changing an incarceration-based model, isnt it time The Inquirer considered exploring answers beyond policing and convictions?

Robert Kaplowitz, cofounder, We Embrace Fatherhood, Ardmore, rob@wefphl.org

Standard care

On April 22, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services released the long-awaited regulations on minimum staffing in nursing homes. The staffing standards are a good first step: Nursing homes are required to have a registered nurse on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and there is a minimum staffing standard of 3.48 hours total direct care per resident per day. This is a minimum, not a ceiling. Nursing homes will still have to staff according to residents care and acuity needs.

However, the staffing rules are under threat due to the introduction of a resolution under the Congressional Review Act, which would repeal these protections and prevent the agency from ever developing any staffing standards. Additionally, the powerful nursing home industry has filed a lawsuit to dismiss the new standards on the grounds that implementation is not practical, and CMS is acting beyond its authority. Three-quarters of all U.S. nursing home residents, including those in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, live in facilities that do not have sufficient nurse staffing to provide them with a safe environment and meet their care needs.

Consequences of inadequate staffing diminish residents quality of life and lead to delayed care, poor quality care, harm, injuries, and deaths of residents. I urge our congressional representatives to stand up to the nursing home industry and stand on the side of protecting our most vulnerable. There are some excellent nursing homes, including many in the Philadelphia area. However, the industrys lawsuit takes focus, time, and money away from what is needed: adequate and appropriate care for their residents. It is our hope that advocates, the nursing home industry, and government regulators can all work together to take care of those unable to take care of themselves.

Jerold E. Rothkoff, Cherry Hill

By definition

Language is important; words do count. Would someone please tell the folks in Alabama or anywhere else who crusade against in vitro fertilization because embryos are people that IVF does not involve embryos; it involves fertilized eggs, or zygotes. Many are dispelled before women even feel their presence. It takes about two weeks for the zygote to travel to and become embedded in the uterus. Only then do zygotes become embryos. There is no religious or philosophical agreement on when human life begins, but biologically, the critical moment is not fertilization but implantation.

Marie Conn, Hatboro

Rising hate

Several months after the deadly terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, my husband and I took a trip to Marrakesh, Morocco. Our guide was a friendly, knowledgeable man with whom we shared long days, meals, and informative conversations. We thought he had become a warm acquaintance we would keep in touch with. However, at the conclusion of our last dinner, his eyes and voice changed, and he gave us a prescient warning. 9/11 was only the beginning, he said. Do you know that as we speak, we are infiltrating your universities and the minds of your young? The horror in Gaza today, beginning with the long-planned Hamas attack on innocents in Israel on Oct. 7, has unleashed a torrent of palpable antisemitism, staining long-respected American universities and making acts of antisemitism commonplace. How else to explain the conversation I had outside of a store where I shopped for Fathers Day cards?

While paying my bill, a Muslim woman and her daughter, about 10 years old, were next to me in line. The woman was wearing a shirt that read Journalist in bold letters. Walking out of the store together, I asked what newspaper or journal she wrote for. She explained that her shirt was to honor the journalists who were killed in Gaza. I then asked, How can a two-state solution in this tormented area be achieved? In her response, her eyes held the same rage as our Marrakesh guide, her voice the same hatred. There can be no two-state solution, she said. Israel must be destroyed, along with the Jews who protect it. Unless addressed, this overt rise in antisemitism  an expression of hate, divisiveness, and discord  foreshadows catastrophe for our country.

SaraKay Smullens, Philadelphia

Historic district

5th Square, Philadelphias urbanist PAC, feels compelled to respond to some of the points made in a recent Inquirer article about the bid to designate Washington Square West as a historic district. Our primary reason for opposition is because several parking lots are included as being historically contributing properties. Designating parking lots as historic properties is irresponsible in an era of skyrocketing housing costs and climate change. Surface parking lots are ripe for building dense housing rather than being impermeable concrete wastelands.

Preservationists claim the soil underneath parking lots may contain valuable archaeological artifacts. We agree, and preservation of history is important. However, there is no one in Philadelphia who is paying the likely exorbitant funds to find these artifacts. Secondly, historic designation raises housing prices and discourages developers from building housing. Fewer homes mean higher housing costs and these higher housing costs wont stay in Washington Square West. A historic designation in one neighborhood results in gentrification and displacement across the city.

Finally, housing density in amenity-rich neighborhoods is an important way to keep people in their homes. When demand outstrips supply, homeowners face rising property taxes and limited solutions. Homeowners feel pressure to sell and leave the neighborhood. When there is an abundance of new housing  affordable and market-rate  there is less demand on existing housing stock. We recognize that the need for housing affordability must be balanced with the need for preserving history. While we oppose blanket designations, we support designations on a more thoughtful, property-by-property basis. This will allow more people to experience Washington Square Wests rich history, rather than leaving these to be the province of a wealthy few.

Fae Ehsan and Steph Davis, volunteers, 5th Square, Philadelphia

Join the conversation: Send letters to letters@inquirer.com. Limit length to 200 words and include home address and day and evening phone number. Letters run in The Inquirer six days a week on the editorial pages and online.
(From left) Delaware County Councilmembers Elaine Schaefer, Monica Taylor, and Christine Reuther when they were elected in 2019. Read more

Nearly every seat was taken in Delaware County Councils chambers one evening earlier this month as dozens of residents signed up to address members.

The group had been packing council meetings for weeks, since officials disclosed they were considering county-owned land just off Interstate 476 along Sproul Road in Marple Township for a mental health facility.

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The community members were angry that such a facility could be placed on land where the county planned to open a large public park, known as Delco Woods. The council members also heard from residents who believed, without evidence, that they planned to house undocumented immigrants on the property.

You have a constituency of none in Marple who support this, one resident said.

The county ultimately announced last week that it wouldnt move forward with the site due to funding issues and would continue looking for other locations. But the saga underscored the challenges the county is facing as it seeks to expand mental health treatment, with structural and societal barriers that are exacerbated by stigma surrounding mental health challenges and political polarization.

And the backlash comes as Delaware County, like communities across the country, is facing a growing need for mental health care.

Everybody knows that we need this service but nobody wants it in their community, said Sandra Garrison, director of Delaware County Human Services.

A facility at Delco Woods

Delaware County, where Democrats have led county government since 2020, has been seeking for years to build a new, 16-bed long-term residential mental health facility. Officials began searching for a site in 2021 but, according to a statement from the county, the need was made more critical by the closure of beds at Norristown State Hospital.

The county currently has a contract with Merakey Delaware County for 16 beds in a similar facility. Officials declined to share its location.

But in the last three years, council members say, theyve struck out time and again as they assessed 25 potential sites for the new facility, confronting issues with zoning, cost, and potential deals falling through.

Its just always been something, Councilmember Christine Reuther said.

County officials had scouted locations quietly, but the search drew public attention in April, when Marple Township changed its zoning to prohibit anything but open space at a long-vacant property formerly owned by the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

The property, next to Cardinal OHara High School, previously held Don Guanella Village, a home for developmentally disabled men, and is predominantly forest land. Delaware County claimed the land by eminent domain in 2021 after years of fights over the future of the property.

The county challenged Marples zoning change in court and disclosed that it was considering a piece of the 213-acre plot of land for a small mental health facility by using existing buildings on the property.

Marple Township Commissioner Joseph Rufo said many residents felt lied to when they learned about the proposal.

We were disappointed because we were looking forward to the park and the open space, Rufo said.

When the county announced that it would not move forward with the mental health facility, its statement said it would still pursue the lawsuit to preserve its rights to the land.

At the June 6 council meeting, Councilmember Kevin Madden explained that Delco Woods was an option because it was zoned for institutional use and it was already owned by the county. He insisted the majority of the property would still be used as a park.

Public backlash

Those opposed to the Delco Woods site also cited fears that a mental health facility would create safety concerns, and some cited the unsubstantiated claims that it would be used to house undocumented immigrants.

Some of what weve experienced isnt about mental health, its about the 2024 election, Reuther said. The extent what were experiencing is about mental health, it reflects a fear people have which is not a reality. And thats one of the challenges that comes from the fact that mental health and mental illness has lived in the shadows.

Charlie Alexander, a Marple resident who has publicly accused county council of intending to house undocumented immigrants, said he had no proof of the allegation. But he said he believed he was right because of council members behavior, including claims that hes motivated by partisan politics.

This is literally just another one of their deflections because they do not have a leg to stand on in anything that I say, he said.

Aurelie Baradic, a Delaware County resident who opposed the Delco Woods proposal, said she is a Democrat but believed that it was inappropriate that county officials assumed anyone who opposed the facility was against offering mental health treatment.

Theres going to be a lot of people who are just really disillusioned about this, Baradic said.

One woman at the council meeting suggested that a park and mental health facility could coexist.

Such a facility would address an urgent public health need, she said.

Even after the announcement that the Delco Woods site wasnt viable for a mental health facility, community members remained suspicious about their plans at the site.

Alexander pointed to the countys plan to continue fighting Marples zoning as proof there are plans for the space other than a mental health facility.

It doesnt really matter what I say, or what any of us say, they view us with a D over our heads and they dont trust what we say, Madden said of the ongoing distrust of county council.

Finding a new option

When the county announced that Delco Woods was no longer a potential site for the facility, officials didnt cite the community backlash.

Instead, they said the property wasnt viable due to the condition of the building and projected cost of renovations.

Reuther said that Fair Acres Geriatric Center, the county-owned nursing home in Middletown Township, had been considered but that location may also be too expensive.

Council members said there are about four other options under consideration, but declined to disclose them.

I think its in our best interest to really have a, I guess, a communications plan around, once we do find a site, and making sure that were getting the facts out, Council Chair Monica Taylor said. She noted that the countys existing facility has caused little drama.

Councilmember Elaine Schaefer, who was the sole person on council against the use of Delco Woods, said she felt the opposition at that site was unique and wouldnt be repeated.

The backlash here was only somewhat because the building is the type of building. It was really more about the unexpected change in direction of what was going to be the future of that park, she said.

But other council members are less certain. Reuther pointed to community frustrations over mental health and homeless housing across the Philadelphia region.

People have a perception thats been built over decades of what people think mental health services are and who the individuals are that are experiencing mental health needs, Taylor said. A lot of those perceptions are not based in reality.
Gold Star Mother Kathy Hause Walker works with her husband, Patrick Walker (right) and Randy Musser (center) president of the Patriot Park foundation, to plant more than 7,000 small US flags near the Flight 93 National Memorial in Somerset County Aug. 23, 2021, as a tribute to all the military members who have died during the global War on Terror following the Sept.11, 2001 attacks. Read more

Pennsylvania schools will now be required to hold a moment of silence on the anniversary of the terror attacks that struck the United States on Sept. 11, 2001, and have the option to teach their students more about the devastating day that profoundly shaped American life and politics.

Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bill into law Monday that instructs the Pennsylvania Department of Education to mandate the moment of silence and identify a model curriculum for teaching students about the significance of Sept. 11.

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The bill, introduced by State Rep. Jim Haddock (D., Luzerne) in May 2023 and unanimously passed in the state House and Senate earlier this month, requires the education department to identify this curriculum within a year. The curriculum should include the historical context of terrorism and the attacks that began on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and United Airlines Flight 93, which ultimately crashed in Shanksville, Pa., according to the bill.

Were hoping that its taught that each person should remember the events of that day and the ramifications ... this affected a global economy at that point, so the ramifications are far reaching Haddock said in an interview.

Education should also include the U.S. recovery and response after the attacks as well as global challenges and consequences. Almost 3,000 people were killed in the terror attacks and thousands more died as a result of the two decades of war in Afghanistan that began just weeks after the attack. Among the victims who died on 9/11 were 58 Pennsylvanians, 18 of them from Bucks County.

Despite the mandated identification of this new curriculum, Pennsylvania schools  including public school districts, charter schools, cyber charter schools, or intermediate unit or tech schools  can use the materials provided on a voluntary basis.

Haddock would have personally preferred to require the education in schools, but concerns about unfunded mandates ultimately convinced him to make participation voluntary and thus, more palatable, he said.

Shapiro emphasized in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday night the importance of educating future generations about the terror attacks.

Its on all of us to teach our shared history, because remembering ensures we never forget, he wrote.
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker at the United City Citywide Cleaning and Greening Program event on June 5. Read more

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, who last year ran on a platform of making Philadelphia safest, cleanest, greenest big city in the nation, has unveiled ambitious plans in her first six months in office to improve public safety and clean the city.

But what about the green part?

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The clean and green section of Parkers budget address to City Council in March focused almost entirely on cleaning efforts. And during budget negotiations this spring, it was City Council members who fought to include climate change-minded initiatives such as $5 million for the Philadelphia Energy Authoritys Built to Last program, which provides subsidized energy-efficient home repairs.

Administration officials say the mayor supports Built to Last and other environmental programs and isnt backing away from her goal of making Philadelphia a greener city.

The Mayor looks at greening in terms of both near-term initiatives that residents can see, touch, and feel, and long-term planning to make Philadelphias communities safer, more prosperous, and more resilient, Parker spokesperson Joe Grace said.

Environmental advocates say theyre optimistic about Parkers agenda.

Overall, were very excited about this initial first step but cognizant of the fact that theres more work to be done, said Adam Nagel, director of government affairs for the environmental group PennFuture and a member of Parkers clean and green cabinet.

Heres what to know about Parkers green agenda:

What does Mayor Cherelle Parker mean by making Philly greener?

Last years election was dominated by public safety, and Parker was rarely asked to elaborate on her green agenda. So its long been unclear whether she was calling for a focus on literal greening  such as planting trees and improving parks  or efforts to address climate change by reducing carbon emissions.

Planting more trees would undoubtedly aid in the fight against global warming because they absorb carbon dioxide from the air. But given that more than 70% of Phillys carbon emissions come from buildings, according to the Municipal Energy Office, the city cannot fully address climate change by bolstering public green spaces alone.

Parkers driving motivation throughout her political career has been to bolster what she calls middle neighborhoods, working-class areas that are neither wealthy nor and desperately poor and that have been shrinking in cities across the nation. And she has often talked about how suburban towns are clean and lined with trees, a dignity she wants city neighborhoods to enjoy.

But Grace said Parker is committed to fulfilling both meanings of making Philly the greenest big city.

Greening includes a continued commitment to climate goals while improving community quality-of-life and access to green economic opportunities for all, he said.

What is Parkers green agenda?

Parkers short-term greening initiatives are largely tied into her plans for cleaning the city. She created the Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, led by veteran city bureaucrat Carlton Williams. Williams is currently overseeing Parkers plan to deep clean every block in the city this summer, which includes freshening up green spaces and landscaping vacant lots.

These efforts not only beautify our neighborhoods, but also address environmental issues like the urban heat island effect and poor air quality, Grace said. Further, greening interventions have a proven effect on public safety.

He pointed to a Penn study on the Pennsylvania Horticultural Societys LandCare program, which cleans and landscapes vacant lots, that showed it reduced gun violence by 29% and improved mental health outcomes.

 READ MORE: Heres when the city plans to clean your neighborhood as part of Mayor Parkers clean and green initiative

As for long-term climate goals, Parker has committed to following through on former Mayor Jim Kenneys 2017 Municipal Energy Master Plan, which calls for the city government to cut its own carbon emissions in half by 2030 by making city-owned buildings more efficient and developing renewable energy sources.

And she has also embraced the goal of making Philadelphia as a whole  meaning not just the city government  carbon-neutral by 2050, Grace said.

Nagel said hes encouraged Parker is pursuing both tracks.

With any new administration, there are always questions relative to where certain issues will fall in priority, and Philadelphia is a city that faces a lot of pressing issues, Nagel said. I think there is a genuine interest in decarbonization and pursuing the climate goals that were started by predecessors, and I also think it does mean green space.

What green plans did Council add to the budget?

Nagel said he saw two major wins come out of the recently approved city budget, which will take effect July 1.

First, he applauded the citys investment in Built to Last, which will allow Philly to draw down on federal matching funds for the program. And he credited Councilmembers Jamie Gauthier and Katherine Gilmore Richardson with getting the administration to commit to boosting funding for the Philly Tree Plan, a 10-year effort started last year to increase and maintain a tree canopy covering 30% of the city, up from less than 20% now.

The tree plan commitment, however, is not a budget line item. Instead, the administration agreed to use funding that is already in the budget, but [did] not specify particular organization, according to a Council budget memo.

Nagel said he and others will work to ensure administration follows through that promise to boost funding for the program, which has so far been funded largely by the federal government.

The program has received a $12 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Grace said the city and partners are now applying for a $20 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that could support the planting of 4,750 over three years, focusing primarily on communities in North and Southwest Philadelphia that experience high heat rates and low tree canopy.

Matt Rader, the horticultural societys president, said he was delighted by the mayors focus on ensuring that [greening] means tangible experience at the block level.

Caring for the physical space of the city  the streets, the sidewalks, the public spaces  and keeping them clean and making them green is truly transformational, he said.
We know there is strong support for e-scooters in the community, and amongst RAA members as well, he said. Like everything, well need the right legislative framework in place to ensure they are used safely in the community, and we look forward to working with the government as they seek to develop the regulations.
The NSW governments significant funding announced will continue to help communities recover from multiple years of devastating floods and help them to become more resilient, he said. Investing in resilience measures such as voluntary home buybacks and planned relocation, house raising, and retrofits will help improve the safety of people living in areas at high-risk of severe weather, and ensure theyre better protected into the future.
I do agree with the governor that we should always strive to fix issues with our civil law, but we cant afford to wait another year before trying again on legal reform, Temple pointed out. Because of that, Im asking Governor Landry, Senate President Henry, and House Speaker DeVillier to call a special session so we can work together to pass legislation including changes to the collateral source rule and the Housley presumption.
As a tropical state there are things we deal with, he said. We dont want our energy policy driven by climate ideology. When that happens people pay more and our energy is less reliable... Regardless of what you choose it isnt going to prevent us from having tropical weather in tropical season... When we have disruptions because of a hurricane we get lights back on as quickly as possible.
But while navigating Medicare can be daunting, brokers who position themselves as experts can offer valuable compliance assistance to employers, according to Gavino. Despite the hurdles, she finds the Medicare specialty rewarding, both financially and personally.
The UAE was the hardest-hit country in the region and is expected to account for the majority of the total loss. Oman also experienced significant impacts; however, in terms of insured losses, these are expected to be minimal compared to the UAE. Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia also reported minimal losses.
Starting July 1, Florida insurance agents must have at least three appointments with authorized carriers before they can sell policies for the state-created Citizens Property Insurance Corp.

Thats the mandate laid down by Florida House Bill 1503, signed into law in May by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Upon the law becoming effective, Citizens will require each agent writing business with Citizens to hold at least three appointments with authorized insurers for each line of business, reads a bulletin posted by Citizens.

Previous law required agents to have only one appointment, or authorization agreement from a carrier.

Agents who are unable to, or choose not to obtain the required appointments will lose the ability to write, service, or renew business in that line of authority, the bulletin notes.

Citizens will notify agents if they are in violation. At that point, agents will have to obtain appointments with other carriers or transfer their book of business to an eligible agent, Citizens said.

The law, which also allows surplus lines insurers to take out Citizens policies on secondary homes, is part of a continuing effort by lawmakers and regulators to trim the girth of Citizens and steer more business back to the private marketwithout removing the statutory cap on Citizens rate increases. Citizens, by far the largest property insurer in Florida, reported 1.18 million policies in force at the end of April.

The new requirement could be painful for some agents who have relied on Citizens and its often-lower premiums to cover properties in the stressed Florida market.

I would think it would be new agents that would be most affected  those that are trying to start their business and dont have many appointments, said Clayton Fischer, an agent with Blue Marlin Insurance, an agency in Miami that holds appointments with more than 15 carriers.

The logic behind the law is not disputed.

Its not a bad thing for consumers, said Karen Roeling, a commercial lines producer with Seibert Insurance Agency in Tampa. It gives more options.

Topics Florida Carriers Agencies
The owner of a New York roofing company has been sentenced for attempting to cover up an employees on-the-job death.

Law enforcement investigators determined that Jeremiah Wiedemann, owner of Wiedemann Sons Roofing, had moved the victim to a different location to conceal that he had been working for him in Northampton at the time of his accident.

Wiedemann, who had not purchased workers compensation insurance for his employees, also directed other workers to clean up the scene of the injury to further obscure the work-related nature of the accident.

Wiedemann pled guilty to tampering with physical evidence and failure to secure workers compensation. Last week he was sentenced by Judge Chad W. Brown in Fulton County Supreme Court to a term of five years probation and ordered to pay a fine and surcharge.

On May 12, 2023, the Northville Police Department responded to a 911 call from Wiedemann reporting a person had fallen near the Batchellerville Bridge in Saratoga County. The person, who was in and out of consciousness, was airlifted to Albany Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries within days.

The investigation by the Northville Polic, Saratoga County Sheriff, and the New York State Police ultimately revealed that the victim had not, in fact, been injured at the location reported by Wiedemann, but rather at a construction site in the Northampton, where Wiedemanns contracting business was engaged in a roof replacement.

New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang and Northville Police Chief Rick Richardson announced the sentencing.

This defendant went to egregious lengths to conceal his decision to prioritize profits over people, rather than complying with the law to protect workers in the event of workplace injury, said Lang.

Topics Commercial Lines Business Insurance
First responders believe they have accounted for all 13 people who might have been in a Syracuse two-family home that collapsed yesterday.

Syracuse Fire Chief Michael Monds said 11 children and adults were injured and rushed to Upstate University Hospital, a umber of them with serious injuries. Two others have been accounted for as well.

Fire crews responded to several 911 calls that came in shortly after 4 p.m. on Tuesday from neighbors reporting what they said sounded like an explosion at 205 Carbon St.

Monds said when they arrived, firefighters found several victims outside. He said firefighters rescued one youth out of a car that was covered in debris from the home.

The building was indeed collapsed, Monds said. It was a very dangerous scene. There were power lines down and the dangerous odor of gas.

Monds said search and rescue efforts were slowed due to concerns about the structural stability of the house. Firefighters worked to fortify the home before completing searches inside.

The more than 50 firefighters who responded to the collapse had to battle the extreme temperatures that have hit Syracuse.

The cause of the house collapse is unknown at this time and an investigation is underway.

The gas company National Grid told ABC-TV news that there had not been any reports of gas leaks.
The SS United States, a historic ship that still holds the transatlantic speed record it set more than 70 years ago, must leave its berth on the Delaware River in Philadelphia by Sept. 12, a federal judge says.

The decision issued Friday by U.S. District Judge Anita Brody culminated a years-old rent dispute between the conservancy that oversees the 1,000-foot ocean liner and its landlord, Penn Warehousing. It stemmed from an August 2021 decision by Penn Warehousing to double the ships daily dockage to $1,700, an increase the conservancy refused to accept.

When the conservancy continued to pay its previous rate, set in 2011, Penn Warehousing terminated the lease in March 2022. After much legal wrangling, Brody held a bench trial in January but also encouraged the two sides to reach a settlement instead of leaving it up to her.

The judge ultimately ruled that the conservancys failure to pay the new rate did not amount to a contract breach or entitle Penn Warehousing to damages. But she also ruled that under Pennsylvania contract law, the berthing agreement is terminable at will with reasonable notice, which Penn Warehousing had issued in March 2022.

The judges decision gives us a very limited window to find a new home for the SS United States and raise the resources necessary to move the ship and keep her safe, Susan Gibbs, conservancy president and granddaughter of the ships designer, told The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Besides finding a new home, the conservancy also must obtain funds for insurance, tugs, surveys and dock preparations for a move.

The best hope of everyone involved was that the conservancy could successfully repurpose the ship, said Craig Mills, an attorney for Penn Warehousing. But after decades of decay and delay, it is time to acknowledge the unavoidable and return Pier 82 to productive commercial service.

Christened in 1952, the SS United States was once considered a beacon of American engineering, doubling as a military vessel that could carry thousands of troops. On its maiden voyage in 1952, it shattered the transatlantic speed record in both directions, when it reached an average speed of 36 knots, or just over 41 mph (66 kph), The Associated Press reported from aboard the ship.

On that voyage, the ship crossed the Atlantic in three days, 10 hours and 40 minutes, besting the RMS Queen Marys time by 10 hours. To this day, the SS United States holds the transatlantic speed record for an ocean liner.

It became a reserve ship in 1969 and later bounced to various private owners who hoped to redevelop it but eventually found their plans to be too expensive or poorly timed.

It has loomed for years on south Philadelphias Delaware waterfront.

Photo: The S.S. United States is seen Sunday, June 16, 2024, at Pier 82, along the Delaware River, in Philadelphia. (Elizabeth Robertson/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP)

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics USA
This edition of International People Moves details appointments at Canopius and Swiss Re.

A summary of these new hires follows here.

Canopius Taps AXA XLs Houghton as Product Leader, Specialty

Canopius, the London-based global specialty and property and casualty re/insurer, announced it has appointed Mark Houghton to the newly created role of global product leader, Specialty.

Based in Singapore, he takes up the position in October and will oversee the governance, performance and standards of Canopius specialty underwriting lines across the business.

Houghton will also be responsible for product development and innovation as well as establishing Canopius risk appetite for specialty lines across the globe. He will report directly to Group Chief Underwriting Officer Sam Harrison.

With over 20 years experience in insurance and in wider financial services, Houghton joins Canopius from AXA XL, where he led the political risk team for over a decade before being appointed head of Specialty in Asia.

The announcement follows a series of significant hires this year for Canopius Group, with the appointment of Soon Keen Lee as CEO in APAC & MENA as well as Jesse DeCouto as chief underwriting officer and Tonia Morgan as chief financial officer of Canopius Reinsurance Ltd. It also welcomed Uwe Schoberth as head of US Distribution and Matthew Crane as head of UK Distribution at the start of the year.

To realise our continued growth ambitions, were expanding our global underwriting structure to help us innovate and develop products in line with our strategic objectives and risk appetite, commented Harrison.  Having someone responsible for product innovation and development globally from our base in Singapore reflects our growing footprint across the world.

Canopius is a global specialty re/insurer with underwriting operations in Australia, Bermuda, Singapore, the UK and US. It underwrites through Lloyds Syndicate 4444 (managed by Canopius Managing Agents Ltd.); Canopius US Insurance Inc. (a US surplus lines insurer); and Canopius Reinsurance Ltd. (a Bermuda-based Class 4 reinsurer).

***

Swiss Re Promotes Camara to Head of P/C Re in Northern, Central, Eastern Europe

Leopoldo Camara has been appointed head Property & Casualty Reinsurance for Swiss Res business in Northern, Central and Eastern Europe (NCEE) and country president Germany, effective Aug. 1, 2024 (pending regulatory approval).

In addition to his new role, Camara will continue with direct client management responsibility, serving as Swiss Res head Globals for NCEE. He will be based in Munich.

Camara joined Swiss Re in 2005 and has worked in functions across the organization, including group finance, Group Risk Management and Life & Health Business Management. In 2016, he joined the Globals Division that services Swiss Res largest reinsurance clients as key account manager for German and Spanish clients. Most recently, Camara held the position as head Globals Europe.

Prior to joining Swiss Re, he worked for the Gerling-Konzern in Germany, the Mexican Insurance Regulator, and for Zurich Insurance and Converium in Switzerland.

Camara is a trained economist from ITAM in Mexico and holds MBA and master of science degrees in Applied Economics from the University of Rochester  Simon Business School.

Our appointment of Leopoldo Camara brings together the best of both worlds. He is a seasoned insurance executive, with broad international experience, possessing the right background to manage our business in this important region, and he understands clients needs and skillfully brings our experts together to address them, commented Swiss Res CEO Property & Casualty Reinsurance Urs Baertschi.

As previously announced, Beat Strebel, who has been serving as interim head for Property & Casualty Reinsurance NCEE, will move to Beijing to become Swiss Res CEO Reinsurance China & China country president.

Topics Excess Surplus Europe Leadership Property Casualty AXA XL
Port strikes at five key five German ports may cost $6 billion (4.71 billion) in lost trade according to analysis by Russell Group, a data and analytics company.

There is a 24-to-48-hour strike by port workers across the five key German ports of Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Bremen, Brake and Emden, which started on Monday, June 17 and was expected to end on Tuesday, June 18. The strike was called because of stalled negotiations between unions and employers.

Russell identified supply chain disruptions for commodities such as cars & people carriers (costing $399 million/313 million), good transport vehicles (costing $129 million/101 million) and pharmaceuticals ($717 million/559 million).

Bremerhaven is one of the worlds main hubs for cars & people carriers with over $67.32 billion (52.71 billion) being imported and exported from that port annually according to the analysis compiled by Russells ALPS Marine.

Stalled negotiations between unions and employees ultimately ends up resulting in stalled production lines, commented Suki Basi, Russell Groups managing director.

That is a matter for the various parties involved in negotiations to resolve, but when such events occur the ripple effect touches many other links in the supply chain all the way from the manufacturers to ports, logisticians and ultimately the consumers and insurers which provide cover, Basi said.

The result is business interruption events at so many levels, which need to be monitored at an increasingly granular level to achieve business resilience and long-term sustainability.

Formed in 1994. Russell Group is a data and analytics company that delivers creative and imaginative solutions for corporates and re/insurers, so they can successfully leverage their capital and ensure future viability.

Source: Russell Group

Topics Germany
A vessel hit by a sea drone in the Red Sea last week has sunk, the UK Navy said, the second confirmed to go down since Yemens Houthi rebels began attacks on shipping in the region.

The bulk commodity carrier Tutor was the first to be hit by a Houthi waterborne explosive device. After the attack last Wednesday the vessel was reportedly taking on water and its crew ultimately abandoned ship.

Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the last reported location, the UK Navy said in a notice. The vessel is believed to have sunk.

Its the second confirmed sinking of a ship after the Rubymar was struck and submerged in March. Another vessel that was hit last week has also been abandoned and its current status is unclear.

The Houthis have been persistently attacking ships sailing through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since late last year in protest against Israels war with Hamas. The incidents have upended global shipping, prompting many vessels to sail thousands of miles around Africa.

Related:

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.
R&Q Insurance Holdings Ltd. announced it will file for a provisional liquidation in Bermuda  after it had it had exhausted strategic alternatives for a financial rescue.

At the same time, R&Q said the proposed sale of 100% of its program management business, Accredited, to Onex Corp., the Toronto-based private equity company, will go forward.

R&Q has faced deepening financial struggles as a result of adverse loss development in its core legacy acquisition business, unexpected costs and expenses connected to the sale of Accredited, as well as the inability to consummate external legacy transactions.

The directors believe that [with liquidation], there will be very little, if any, chance of any value accruing to the companys shareholders.

When negotiations became bogged down as a result of R&Qs financial woes, Onex suggested the liquidation option as part of an alternative proposal to be considered in the event that the original sale agreement could not be met.

Meanwhile, R&Q, Onex and their representatives had continued discussions, hoping to implement the deal with its original terms, which was first announced on Oct. 20, 2023. As per the original agreement, Onex would purchase 100% of R&Qs equity interest in Randall & Quilter America Holding Inc., the holding company of Accredited, for a purchase price of $465 million.

Following the boards exploration and evaluation and taking all other relevant factors into consideration, including the cash resources currently available to the company, the board concluded in its June 19 update that liquidation (i.e., the alternative proposal) represents the best option to secure value for R&Q.

At the request of the company, trading on the London Stock Exchanges Alternative Investment Market (AIM) has been temporarily suspended starting at 7:30 a.m. on June 19, pending clarification of the companys financial position, according to an AIM notice.

The R&Q board said it will be filing for provisional liquidation in Bermuda in due course and it expects the sale of Accredited to Onex to then be implemented through that process.

The provisional liquidators would then look to realise value from the companys remaining assets, at the end of which the remaining company would be wound up, R&Q said. The directors believe that, in those circumstances, there will be very little, if any, chance of any value accruing to the companys shareholders.

For several years, R&Q has been attempting to restructure the company, namely by raising capital and selling assets. R&Q intended to use the proceeds of the Accredited sale to cut its debt load. (In 2022, the company acknowledged its capital position was being hit by the new IFRS accounting standards, implemented in 2023.)

The companys program management business, Accredited, reported $1.8 billion of gross written premiums in 2022, while its legacy management business, R&Q Legacy, has approximately $2.2 billion of gross liabilities under management.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessels lawsuit seeking to shut down part of a petroleum pipeline that runs beneath the Straits of Mackinac belongs in state court, a federal appellate panel ruled Monday.

The pipelines operator, Enbridge Inc., moved the case from state court to federal court more than two years past the deadline for changing jurisdictions. A three-judge panel from the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals found Enbridge clearly missed the deadline and ordered the case remanded to state court.

Nessel filed the lawsuit in June 2019 seeking to void a 1953 easement that enables Enbridge to operate a 4.5-mile (6.4-kilometer) section of Line 5 beneath the straits, which link Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

Concerns over the section rupturing and causing a catastrophic spill have been growing since 2017, when Enbridge engineers revealed they had known about gaps in the sections protective coating since 2014. A boat anchor damaged the section in 2018, intensifying fears of a spill.

The attorney general won a restraining order from a state judge in June 2020, although Enbridge was allowed to restart operations after complying with safety requirements. The energy company moved the lawsuit into federal court in December 2021.

Nessel argued to the 6th U.S. Circuit panel that the lawsuit belongs in state court. During oral arguments before the panel in Cincinnati in March, her attorneys insisted the case invokes the public trust doctrine, a concept in state law in which natural resources belong to the public, as well as the Michigan Environmental Protection Act.

Enbridge attorneys countered the case should stay in federal court because it affects trade between the U.S. and Canada. Line 5 moves petroleum products from northwestern Wisconsin through Michigan into Ontario.

The judges  Richard Griffin, Amul Thapor and John Nalbandian  did not address the merits of the case.

Nessel said in a statement that the case never should have left state court and ripped Line 5 as old, dangerous and worsening.

And I am still committed to doing everything in my power to shut down its passage through the Straits, she said.

Enbridge filed a separate federal lawsuit in 2020 arguing that the states attempt to shut down the pipeline interferes with the federal regulation of pipeline safety and could encourage copycat actions that would impede interstate and international petroleum trading. That case is pending.

Enbridge spokesperson Ryan Duffy said in an email to The Associated Press that the company was disappointed that the case was moved back to state court, arguing that Line 5 is regulated under federal law and a 1977 crude oil treaty between the U.S. and Canada. He added that a ruling in the remaining federal lawsuit should fully resolve the state case, and the company believes that case should proceed first.

Enbridge also has been working to secure permits to encase the section of pipeline beneath the straits in a protective tunnel. The project will create jobs and make a safe pipeline safer, Duffy said.

The pipeline is at the center of a legal dispute in Wisconsin as well. A federal judge in Madison last summer gave Enbridge three years to shut down part of Line 5 that runs across the Bad River Band of Lake Superiors reservation. The company has proposed rerouting the pipeline around the reservation and has appealed the shutdown order to the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. That case is pending.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Michigan
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit by Exxon Mobil Corp. against Arjuna Capital after a lawyer for the activist investor group vowed not to try to resurrect a shareholder policy opposed by the company.

The judge in Fort Worth, Texas, issued his order Monday hours after holding a hearing in the closely watched case over Exxons novel move to use the courts to keep environmental and social investor bids out of annual meetings. The suit was part of a broader corporate pushback to the power wielded by the US Securities and Exchange Commission in the vetting of shareholder proposals.

Related: Exxon Sues ESG Investors to Remove Climate Proposals on Ballot

US District Judge Mark Pittman had previously rejected Arjunas request for dismissal, agreeing with Exxons argument that even after Arjunas original proposal was pulled, there was nothing to stop the activist group from continuing to file similar ones. But Arjuna then unconditionally and irrevocably pledged not to submit similar proposals.

At base, the second times the charm for Arjuna, as its unconditional and irrevocable pledge ensures Exxon the offending conduct wont recur, the judge wrote.

At the hearing, Pittman told a lawyer for Arjuna that if the firm or an ally group repackages the anti-fossil fuel proposal, Ill take your law license away.

Publicly traded companies typically debate the merits of individual proposals with the SEC, which can advise whether they be excluded from the ballot. But critics of the process, including Exxon, claim the SECs advice can vary widely depending which administration is in office.

Exxon welcomed Arjunas pledge to not submit similar proposals in the future.

Weve heard a lot about shareholder rights, and our suit has always been about preserving those rights because shareholder democracy is only as strong as the rules that govern it, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Darren Woods said in a statement. Making repeated proposals that garner a small minority of support doesnt serve anyones interest except the proponents.

Exxons highly unusual decision to seek legal judgment rather than go through the SEC was seen as a test of corporations ability to shut down activist investor proposals they dont like.

Arjuna had argued that Exxon was using the lawsuit to fight a proxy war with the securities regulator.

But the US Chamber of Commerce and the Business Roundtable backed Exxon in a February court filing. The business trade groups said the SECs decision to allow shareholder proposals pushing social and political agendas enables a subset of activists to commandeer corporate proxy statements for their own parochial ends. This takes time away from genuine proposals and wastes company money printing and distributing the activist proposals, they said.

As Exxon and amicus note, the trend of shareholder activism in this country isnt going anywhere, the judge wrote Monday. The SEC is behind the ball on this issue. But the court cannot advise Exxon of its rights without a live case or controversy to trigger jurisdiction.

The case is Exxon Mobil Corporation v. Arjuna Capital, LLC, 24-cv-00069, US District Court, Northern District of Texas (Fort Worth).

Photo: Photographer: Nicky Loh/Bloomberg

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.

Topics Lawsuits Legislation
Philip Morris International Inc. stopped online sales of its popular nicotine pouch brand Zyn in the US after receiving a subpoena in the District of Columbia related to flavored products that are banned there.

Philip Morris said its preliminary investigation indicated that there have been sales of flavored pouches in DC, predominantly related to certain online sales platforms and some independent retailers. The order was served to affiliate Swedish Match North America LLC, the company said in a filing.

The tobacco company said it could face an unspecified material liability if there is an unfavorable outcome related to the matter, adding that it will comply with the request for information.

Any potential fine is likely to be a few million dollars rather than a few hundred million dollars, said Barclays analyst Gaurav Jain, as relatively few flavored pouches are sold online and not all e-commerce retailers sell flavored pouches.

More broadly though, it does raise questions around the checks and balances that exist at Zyn.com as it is in the phase of rapid growth, he said in a note to clients.

Shares of Philip Morris fell as much as 2.7% in New York trading after analysts raised the possibility that enforcement actions could go beyond DC. The stock is up about 7% in the past 12 months.

Sales Impact

A valid question will be how many sales come from other online platforms and independent retailers that are not only selling into DC, but also potentially other states/localities that have flavor bans, said Jefferies analyst Owen Bennett, noting flavor bans on nicotine and tobacco restrictions across 400 localities and five states.

Zyn, which delivers nicotine to users via small pouches resembling tea bags placed between the gum and upper lip, has been a growth engine for Philip Morris in the US. The surge in popularity of the pouches, which dont contain tobacco, has led to supply shortages as demand rises.

The product has drawn criticism from lawmakers, including Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer, for allegedly targeting young people.

Philip Morris, which sells Marlboro cigarettes outside the US, acquired Zyn maker Swedish Match in 2022 with a $16 billion takeover, giving it a US distribution network and new smoke-free products. It has since ramped up marketing for Zyn, and US shipments of the pouches rose nearly 80% to 131.6 million cans during the companys first quarter.

Zyn has become a popular subject on social media for some conservative influencers, with former Fox News host Tucker Carlson decrying the push to restrict sales of the pouches.

Pouches made under the Velo brand by British American Tobacco Plc have benefited from Zyn supply shortages in the US and could gain more traction if Zyn sales are impacted, the Jefferies report said.

If Philip Morris finds that sales of flavored Zyn products in places where they are banned is a common occurrence, and takes actions to put an end to this, it is possible that the impact on sales could become more meaningful, Bennett said.

Photo: Photographer: Bing Guan/Bloomberg

Copyright 2024 Bloomberg.

Topics USA
The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Starbucks in the coffee chains challenge to a judicial order to rehire seven Memphis employees fired as they sought to unionize in a ruling that could make it harder for courts to quickly halt labor practices contested as unfair under federal law.

The justices on June 13 unanimously threw out a lower courts approval of an injunction sought by the U.S. National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ordering Starbucks to reinstate the workers while the agencys in-house administrative case against the Seattle-based company proceeds.

The justices ruled that lower courts had used an improper legal standardone that Starbucks argued was too lenientto issue a preliminary injunction requested by the agency under a federal law called the National Labor Relations Act.

Such orders are intended as an interim tool to halt unfair labor practices while the NLRB resolves unfair labor complaints. Under that laws section 10(j), a court may grant an injunction if it is deemed just and proper.

Starbucks had argued that the judge who granted the injunction should have used a stringent four-factor test in deciding to issue that order, similar to the standard used by some other courts and in non-labor legal disputes. This test includes an assessment of whether the side seeking relief would suffer irreparable harm and is likely to succeed on the merits of the case.

Conservative Justice Clarence Thomas authored Thursdays ruling in which the justices unanimously agreed to return the case to the lower court to apply the four-factor test. Liberal justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, in a partial dissent, broke with the other justices on how the lower court should apply part of that test.

Starbucks has contended that under a stricter standard, the case would have come out differently in the lower courts.

President Joe Bidens administration had defended the NLRBs actions in the case. During Supreme Court arguments in the case in April, a Justice Department lawyer said the NLRB seeks injunctions like the one issued against Starbucks in very few cream of the crop cases, last year requesting just seven even though it receives 20,000 unfair labor charges annually.

About 400 Starbucks locations in the United States have unionized, involving more than 10,000 employees. Both sides at times have accused the other of unlawful or improper conduct.

Hundreds of complaints have been filed with the NLRB accusing Starbucks of unlawful labor practices such as firing union supporters, spying on workers and closing stores during labor campaigns. Starbucks has denied wrongdoing and said it respects the right of workers to choose whether to unionize.

Both sides in February announced they had agreed to create a framework to guide organizing and collective bargaining and potentially settle scores of pending legal disputes.

Starbucks after the ruling reiterated its goal of reaching contracts with union-represented stores this year.

Consistent federal standards are important in ensuring that employees know their rights and consistent labor practices are upheld no matter where in the country they work and live, the company said in a statement.

In 2022, workers at a Starbucks cafe on Poplar Avenue in Memphis became among the first in the company to unionize. Early in their efforts, they allowed a television news crew into the cafe after hours to talk about the union campaign. Starbucks fired seven workers present that evening, including several who belonged to the union organizing committee.

Despite the dismissals, employees there subsequently voted to join the Workers United union.

The union filed unfair labor charges with the NLRB over the firings and other discipline by managers. The NLRB sought an injunction, accusing Starbucks of unlawfully firing the workers for supporting the union drive and to send a message to other workers.

Lynne Fox, president of Workers United, criticized the Supreme Courts ruling.

Working people have so few tools to protect and defend themselves when their employers break the law, Fox said. That makes (Thursdays) ruling by the Supreme Court particularly egregious. It underscores how the economy is rigged against working people all the way up to the Supreme Court.

U.S. District Judge Sheryl Lipman granted the injunction in 2022, reinstating the workers in order to address the chilling effect of the dismissals on the unionization effort while the NLRB resolves the case. The Cincinnati, Ohio-based 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the injunction in 2023.
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) announced an update on its investigation into a July 2023 explosion at the Dow Louisiana Operations Glycol II plant in Plaquemine, Louisiana, that resulted in the release of over 31,000 pounds of ethylene oxide (EtO), a known carcinogen.

Multiple subsequent explosions and fires damaged nearby piping and equipment, including a reflux drum. In addition to the release of EtO, the incident resulted in substantial property damage at the facility, and local officials issued a shelter in place order for hundreds of nearby residents.

The CSB launched a team to the site of this investigation on April 4, 2024, after the Agency eliminated CSBs long-standing backlog of investigation reports.

The CSB said it has identified several events of concern that occurred during this incident, including high vibration in a reflux pump, upsets in the EtO finishing process, and multiple explosions and fires, and ultimately the release of 31,525 pounds of EtO, a cancer-causing substance. Investigating the root causes of each event will be crucial in understanding and preventing similar incidents in the future.

The CSB is continuing to gather facts and analyze several key areas involved in this incident, including:

Emergency pressure-relief systems scenarios

Reactive chemical hazards

Reactive material emergency pressure-relief system design

Maintenance procedures and practices

Relevant facility, corporate, and industry standards

The CSBs investigation of this incident is ongoing. Complete findings, analyses, and appropriate recommendations will be detailed in the CSBs final investigation report.

Source: CSB

Topics Louisiana
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  Damage to a utilitys power equipment by gunfire found in Durham was associated with an outage that left hundreds of people without power earlier this week, the company said.

About 730 people experienced a power outage for about two hours on Monday after reports of a fire and equipment failure on Duke Energys power distribution grid, spokesperson Jeff Brooks said in an email.

A day later, the Durham Police Department, with assistance from the FBI, responded to an area in southeast Durham after receiving a call about the damaged power equipment, according to a police statement. The companys workers told officers that the equipment had been damaged by gunfire within the past week.

Damage from the gunfire caused a slow oil leak from the power equipment, which ultimately led to a fire breaking out, police said. The incident is under investigation and no one had been arrested as of Thursday. While Duke Energy verified the damage was associated with the outage, Brooks said the company hasnt confirmed what ultimately led to the equipment failing and is waiting until the investigation is completed.

We have been working to strengthen our electric grid to make it more resistant to extended outages from severe weather, as well as physical and cyber threats, Brooks said. We are also improving the resiliency of the grid to help restore power faster when a disruption occurs.

Officials didnt immediately specify what kind of equipment was damaged.

The incident comes as North Carolina lawmakers have advanced legislation to toughen penalties for people who carry out attacks on infrastructure such as public water sites and manufacturing facilities.

Property damage to utility services has gotten attention since two power substations were shot at in Moore County in December 2022. The incident left thousands of residents without power in frigid temperatures for days. Arrests still have not been made.

In response, Gov. Roy Cooper signed a bill unanimously passed by state legislators last year that increased penalties for people who purposefully damage energy facilities and telephone and broadband equipment.

Now, the state legislature is looking to expand punishments for intentionally damaging a wider variety of infrastructure services, including public water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, public utilities and manufacturing facilities. The penalty for damaging those areas on purpose would be a felony, according to the bill.

It also allows for people who suffer harm as a result of infrastructure property damage to sue the person who committed the crime or aided it.

This is just an extension of our critical infrastructure protection in our state, Senate Majority Leader Paul Newton said in the Senate Agriculture, Energy, and Environment Committee last week.

The bill has since been referred to another committee since its approval in the agriculture committee, but it has yet to be scheduled for a hearing.

AP writer Makiya Seminar produced this report.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics North Carolina
The board of governors for Floridas state-created Citizens Property Insurance Corp. voted unanimously Wednesday to raise personal lines rates by an average of 14% statewide  near the maximum allowed under the insurers glide path  starting next year.

The rate increase, if approved by the state Office of Insurance Regulation, would still be well below the actuarially indicated rate, a Citizens actuary said at the board meeting. But that indicated rate increase for 2025 is about 25%, a vast improvement over the 41% that would have been indicated before Florida lawmakers passed major litigation reforms in 2022.

The news today will be about the rate increase. But to me the real story is that the uncapped, indicated rate is so much lower than it was just a year ago, board member Scott Thomas said at the meeting. Thats a phenomenal change.

Its all because of Senate Bill 2A, approved in late 2022, which ended one-way attorney fees for plaintiffs and barred assignment-of-benefits agreements with contractors. Those were two quirks of Florida law that property insurers had blamed for incentivizing claims lawsuits and overwhelming some carriers with litigation costs.

Litigation rates for non-catastrophe claims have fallen significantly for Citizens, from a high of 14% in 2020 to 6% in 2023. In the three most populous south Florida counties, litigation rates dropped from 28% in 2020 to 16% last year, Citizens data show.

The primary driver of Citizens improved results is due to the continued decrease of the litigation rates for non-catastrophe losses, reads an actuarial slide presentation at the meeting.

Another bit of good news for insurers: Citizens depopulation plan appears to be working, perhaps better than expected. Citizens policies topped 1.2 million this year, but the number is expected to drop below 1 million by yearss end, officials said. As many as 400,000 policies should be moved to private carriers this year, thanks partly to take-out offers made by insurance companies.

The 2025 recommended Citizens rate changes, which would take effect Jan. 1 if approved by regulators, would raise homeowner multiperil (HO-3) rates by an average of 13.5%. Actual premiums will vary by property and by county. Condominium coverage would increase 14.2%, and commercial policy rates would jump an average of 13.5%.

For second or non-primary homes, which are not subject to the same glide path that limits primary HO rate increases to no more than 15% per year, average rates would rise 18% for homeowners policies and by 15% for condominium units.

Board member Robert Spottswood asked if further consideration has been given to making Citizens the primary wind-only carrier for Florida. A bill in the Legislature this spring proposed the change, but the bill died in committee. On Wednesday, Citizens CEO Tim Cerio said that a staff analysis of the proposed idea indicated that it would create more than $3 trillion of exposure for Citizens, requiring the purchase of $5.5 billion of reinsurance.

It might get floated again and theres more than one way to skin a cat, but we found that it would be cost-prohibitive, Cerio said.

Chief Actuary Brian Donovan noted that Citizens multi-peril policies, most of which include wind coverage, subsidize the cost of providing Citizens wind-only coverage.

Topics Lawsuits Florida
Amazon failed to meet requirements of Californias Warehouse Quotas law at warehouses in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, according to the Labor Commissioners Office.

The ofice cited Amazon.com Services LLC $5,901,700 for violations of the Warehouse Quotas law in two of the companys distribution warehouses in Moreno Valley and Redlands.

The law, enacted in 2021 as Assembly Bill 701, requires warehouse employers to provide employees written notice of any quotas they must follow, including the number of tasks they need to perform per hour and any discipline that could come from not meeting the quota.

The peer-to-peer system that Amazon was using in these two warehouses is exactly the kind of system that the Warehouse Quotas law was put in place to prevent, Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower said in a statement. Undisclosed quotas expose workers to increased pressure to work faster and can lead to higher injury rates and other violations by forcing workers to skip breaks.

Amazon reportedly failed to provide written notice of quotas. The employer argued they did not need a quota system because they use a peer-to-peer evaluation system. The law defines a quota as work that must be performed at a specified speed or worker suffer discipline, and it places limits on quotas that prevent compliance with meal or rest periods, use of bathroom facilities, or compliance with occupational health and safety laws.

The office began an initial inspection in 2022, reportedly finding 59,017 violations for the Moreno Valley and Redlands warehouses from October 20, 2023 to March 9, 2024. Penalties were issued under Labor Code 2699(f), which provides penalties of $100 for each violation.

The Warehouse Worker Resource Center assisted the investigation. WWRC is a nonprofit focused on trying to improve working conditions in the warehouse industry in Southern California.

Topics California
A loss of engine power due to poor maintenance caused a 2022 helicopter crash in New Mexico that claimed the lives of four Bernalillo County first responders as they were returning home from a firefighting mission, according to federal investigators.

Investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board issued a final report that also noted that a maneuver to account for the loss of power was complicated by the setting sun and low altitude and contributed to the crash of the Bell UH-1H helicopter.

The Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office said in a statement that the crash was devastating and deeply affected the department and the community.

Sheriff John Allen, when he took office in 2023, grounded the departments air support unit and overhauled procedures. The yearlong effort included revamping guidelines and acquiring a new aircraft that meets safety standards.

In light of the NTSB findings, Allen said it was clear the decision to pause and overhaul the program was not only necessary but critical.

We have taken every possible step to ensure such a tragedy does not happen again, he said.

Killed in the crash were Undersheriff Larry Koren, Lt. Fred Beers, Deputy Michael Levison and Bernalillo County Fire Rescue Specialist Matthew King.

The crash marked the single deadliest incident for law enforcement in New Mexico history and one of the deadliest for first responders.

According to the investigation, an examination of the engine found that a gear failed because of fatigue, leading to a driveshaft shearing and a gearbox seizing. That resulted in a loss of engine power.

The report noted that before the crash, the oil was changed after a small piece of metal was discovered. Samples were sent to a lab, but investigators said the results were not used to troubleshoot the problem on the aircraft.

Had the operator conducted an analysis, they could have potentially identified the deteriorating component and impending failure, the report stated.

Koren was piloting the helicopter on July 16 as the group returned from a wildfire on private land near Las Vegas, New Mexico. Authorities say the aircraft made an abrupt descent without any turns before hitting the ground.

Records show King, 44, managed to call 911. Despite being mortally wounded, he tried to lead rescuers to the remote crash site before dying from his injuries.

Koren, 55, was a veteran pilot who had been with the Bernalillo County Sheriffs Office for more than two decades. Being the sole pilot at the time, his death had left the future of the air support unit uncertain. The sheriffs office relaunched the unit in December and along with the new safety measures, added an extra pilot and mechanic.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Mexico New Mexico
China uses subsidies extensively to take a leading role in the global markets of green-tech products such as battery electric vehicles and wind turbines. Against the background of the current EU investigations into Chinese subsidies in these sectors, this article takes a careful look at the Chinese subsidy system and provides new data on direct government subsidies to leading Chinese producers of electric cars and wind turbines. Extensive government support has allowed Chinese companies to scale up rapidly, to dominate the Chinese market and to expand into foreign markets. The article concludes that the EU should use its strong bargaining power due to the single market to induce the Chinese government to abandon the most harmful subsidies.

Green technologies are increasingly at the centre of international trade and technology policy. The Chinese government has recognised the future importance of such technologies early on and is particularly active in supporting these industries. China has become a world leader in photovoltaics and battery cell production and is trying to do the same in electric vehicles and wind power. Subsidies are a key instrument in the Chinese governments strategy to support the development of these industries. The massive subsidisation of Chinese companies has led to fierce criticism in the West, however.

The European Commission accuses the Chinese government of distorting competition with subsidies for electric cars and has launched an official anti-subsidy investigation into electric cars in China in October 2023. The anti-subsidy investigation has been intended to confirm the Commissions allegations that manufacturers of battery electric vehicles (BEV) in China benefit from countervailable  i.e. specific and advantageous to the receiving companies  subsidies that are causing or threatening to cause economic damage to BEV manufacturers in the EU and justify the introduction of countervailing duties (European Commission, 2023, 2024c). Similar discussions have been held regarding subsidies to Chinese producers of wind turbines: in April 2024, EU Commissioner Margrethe Vestager (2024) announced the start of an investigation into Chinese wind turbines under the EUs foreign subsidies regulation.

These allegations must be taken seriously. The data situation is currently highly unsatisfactory and the requirements for legally secure interventions, namely the imposition of countervailing duties on Chinese imports by the European Commission, are high. And even if the legal requirements for the imposition of such duties were met, there is still the question of whether such duties would be in the long-term interests of the EU.

Against this background, the article assembles data on overall industrial subsidies in China from different sources and provides some new data based on the analysis of the Chinese governments latest reviews of purchase subsidies for new energy vehicles and the annual reports of the most important Chinese companies in the electric car and wind energy sectors. Based on the empirical findings, arguments for and against EU interventions are discussed.

Quantification of overall Chinese industrial subsidies

Chinese industries receive considerable public support in the form of direct and indirect subsidies, and there can be little doubt that overall industrial subsidies in China are significantly higher than those in the EU or in the countries of the OECD, more generally.

A recent study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) quantifies overall industrial policy spending by the Chinese government, comparing it to other major economies (DiPippo et al., 2022). The study considers government support provided to industry in the form of direct subsidies, government support for R&D, R&D tax incentives, other tax incentives, below-market credit to state-owned enterprises (SOEs), support through state investment funds (government guidance funds, GGF), and China-specific factors, which include, most notably, below-market land sales. Estimates for some of these types of support are lower bounds as some elements are not quantifiable.

For China, the study estimates public support for industry to add up to at least 221.3 billion, or 1.73% of GDP in 2019, even when taking a conservative approach and considering only quantifiable factors (DiPippo et al., 2022). This is far higher than estimated support in the other leading economies in the sample, both in absolute terms and in relation to GDP (see Figure 1). Relative to GDP, public support is about three times higher in China than in France (0.55%) and about four times higher than in Germany (0.41%) or the United States (0.39%).

Figure 1

Industrial support spending in China and key OECD countries in relation to GDP, 2019

Note: China-specific factors include, most notably, below-market land sales. Source: DiPippo et al. (2022); authors own illustration.

As for the relative importance of the different instruments in China, three instruments stand out: below-market credit to SOEs with 0.52% of GDP, and direct subsidies and other tax incentives with 0.38% of GDP each. R&D tax incentives and government support for R&D are relatively low in China, with 0.07% of GDP each. With this, the structure of Chinese subsidies differs strongly from that in the US and France, where R&D tax incentives and government support for R&D are the largest support elements. For Germany, the support structure is somewhat closer to that of China. As in China, below-market credits and other tax incentives are the largest support elements in Germany. Direct subsidies are much less important in Germany than in China, whereas government support for R&D is relatively more important in Germany.

The OECD (2021, 2023) provides another quantification of Chinas overall industrial subsidies using publicly available firm-level information for 306 of the worlds largest manufacturing firms (almost a quarter of firms in the sample are from China; about a fifth from the EU). The study covers the years 2005-2019 and focuses on four key instruments of policy support: tax concession, government grants, below-market borrowing and below-market equity.

In line with the CSIS study (DiPippo et al., 2022), the OECD (2021, 2023) finds that China offers its large industrial firms disproportionately more support  both overall and in each of the four instruments considered  than other countries covered in the analysis. The industrial firms from China covered in the sample received government support equivalent to about 4.5% of their revenues. By far the largest part of this support comes in the form of below-market borrowing.

These results suggest that through tax concessions, government grants and below-market borrowing alone, large industrial companies in China may receive almost nine times more government support (relative to company sales) than comparable companies in the OECD. And this does not include support in the form of below-market equity, or through subsidised input prices, preferential treatment in public procurement or other forms of support that are even harder to quantify and to compare internationally.

The results of the two studies of CSIS and OECD just described relate to the years 2019 and 2005-2019 respectively. More recent quantifications of Chinese subsidies are available for selected instruments or sectors only. The China Economic Database (Bruegel, 2024) provides data for direct government subsidies to listed companies up to 2022. In 2022, the 5,260 companies in the sample received about 35.3 billion in direct government subsidies (Figure 2). This is double the amount in 2015. Relative to 2019, the last year before COVID-19 and the reference year of the above CSIS study, subsidies increased by about 27.3% in 2022. The database also shows that in 2022 almost all listed companies in China (more than 99% in the database) have received direct government subsidies (Bruegel, 2024).

Figure 2

Direct subsidies to listed companies in China, 2015-2022

Sources: Bruegel (2024), National Bureau of Statistics of China (2023) and Deutsche Bundesbank (2024); authors own currency conversion, calculation of ratios and illustration.

Chinese subsidies in battery electric vehicles

Chinas rise to the worlds largest market and production base for battery electric vehicles has been boosted by the Chinese governments longstanding extensive support of the industry, which includes both demand- and supply-side subsidies. Substantial purchase subsidies and tax breaks to stimulate sales of battery electric vehicles (BEV) are, of course, not unique to China but are also widespread within the EU and other Western countries, where (per vehicle) purchase subsidies have often been substantially higher than in China. A distinctive feature of purchase subsidies for BEV in China, however, is that they are paid out directly to manufacturers rather than consumers and that they are paid only for electric vehicles produced in China, thereby discriminating against imported cars.

While these purchase subsidies have been phased out altogether by the end of 2022, they played an important role in the development phase of the sector. Until 2022, the purchase subsidies for new energy vehicles (NEV), which include BEV as well as plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) and fuel cell vehicles, amounted to about 5.3 billion (Figure 3). The lions share of the subsidies was paid in 2022, the final year of the policy. In 2022, purchase subsidies of about 4.2 billion were allocated to almost 3.2 million NEV, up from a total of 0.2 billion for about 75,000 NEV for the period 2010 to 2020. The average subsidy per NEV decreased over time, from about 2,300 between 2010 and 2020 to 1,300 in 2022.

Figure 3

Approved NEV purchase subsidies in China

Note: The average exchange rate for 2020 is used for calculating NEV purchase subsidies in euro for the first period (until 2020). Sources: Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China (2023, 2024) and Deutsche Bundesbank (2024); authors own calculations and illustration.

By far the largest recipient of purchase subsidies was Chinese NEV manufacturer BYD, which in 2022 alone received purchase subsidies amounting to 1.6 billion (for about 1.4 million NEV) (Figure 4). The second largest recipient of purchase subsidies was US-headquartered Tesla, which received about 0.4 billion (for about 250,000 BEV produced in its Shanghai Gigafactory). While the ten next highest recipients of purchase subsidies are all Chinese, there are also three Sino-foreign joint ventures (the two VW joint ventures with FAW and SAIC as well as SAIC GM Wuling) among the top 20 purchase subsidy recipients.

Figure 4

Approved new energy vehicle purchase subsidies in China: Top 20 recipients

Note: * Sino-foreign joint ventures or foreign-owned firms. New energy vehicles include battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles and fuel cell vehicles. Sources: Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China (2023, 2024), Deutsche Bundesbank (2024); authors own calculations and illustration.

The large differences in purchase subsidies received mainly reflect differences in the number of NEV sold and eligible for subsidy. In 2022, Tesla and the three Sino-foreign joint ventures taken together received purchase subsidies for about 408,000 NEV, whereas BYD alone received subsidies for 1.4 million NEV. The 16 Chinese NEV manufacturers among the top 20 purchase subsidy recipients combined received subsidies for 2.63 million NEV.

Purchase subsidies per vehicle depend on the technology (BEV or PHEV) and the basic performance characteristics (e.g. electric range, battery energy density, maximum speed) of individual car models. We find that BYD received more subsidies than its largest competitors  Tesla and GAC but also compared to VW joint ventures SAIC-VW and FAW-VW  in every relevant subsidy rate class in 2022, reflecting the breadth and competitiveness of the BYD model range.

Even as purchase subsidies have been phased out, BEV continue to be exempt from the vehicle purchase tax (usually 10% on car price including VAT). More specifically, there will be a complete purchase tax exemption for all NEV, not only but mostly BEV, up to savings of RMB 30,000 (about 3,920) per vehicle in 2024 and 2025. The exemption will be halved in 2026 and 2027. For the four years, this incentive package is scheduled to amount to RMB 520 billion (about 68 billion) (China Briefing, 2023).

Apart from purchase subsidies (until 2022), there are several other forms of subsidies given to BEV manufacturers. According to the information in BYDs annual reports, direct government subsidies to that company totalled 3.4 billion in the period from 2018 to 2022. They increased massively, recently, from about 0.2 billion in 2020 to 0.6 billion in 2021, and to 2.1 billion in 2022 alone (Figure 5). Relative to business revenues, this corresponds to an increase of direct subsidies from 1.1% of revenues in 2020 to 3.5% in 2022. Direct subsidies to GAC, the second largest Chinese recipient of NEV purchase subsidies, were much lower and tended to decrease in recent years.

Figure 5

Direct government subsidies to BYD and GAC, 2018-2022

Note: Government subsidies consist of newly added longer-term government subsidies and new government subsidies of the year disclosed in the annual reports. Sources: BYD annual report 2018-2022 and GAC annual report 2018-2022; Deutsche Bundesbank (2024); authors own calculations and illustration.

Other important forms of government support (not included above) are, e.g. below-market debt and equity, (discriminatory) government procurement (DiPippo et al., 2022), or the purchase of important inputs (such as steel and EV batteries) at subsidised prices, which are hard to measure, however.

Chinese subsidies for wind turbines

In the mid-1990s, the Chinese government introduced a purchase guarantee and feed-in-tariff schemes for wind energy as well as strong local content requirements, mandating that wind farms purchase at least 70% domestically manufactured equipment (Li et al., 2023). This resulted in a rapid expansion of installed wind energy capacity (from 1.26 GW in 2005 to 31 GW in 2020) and a rapid growth of the market share of domestic wind turbine manufacturers (from 25% in 2004 to 90% in 2010) (Li et al., 2023).

In the following years, feed-in tariffs were repeatedly adjusted downwards in accordance with falling wind energy costs. Eventually, the central government has completely abolished (preferential) feed-in tariffs for both onshore wind and offshore wind in 2020 and 2021. In view of the sharp fall in the cost of wind power generation in China, the central government no longer seems to consider specific subsidies on the demand side to be necessary. Several large provinces including Guangdong, Shandong and Zhejiang have announced their own regional subsidy policies to stand in for the national ones, however (Caixin, 2023).

The strict local content requirements were revoked in 2009, allowing foreign producers to bid for projects (Li et al., 2023; Scheifele et al., 2022). However, the market share of Western turbine manufacturers has fallen even further, allegedly also due to discriminatory treatment by the wind farm operators in award procedures. European wind turbine producers such as Vestas or Siemens Gamesa are still producing wind turbines in China but mainly or even only for export.

While some important forms of government support for the wind turbine industry in China were abolished several years ago, the central and regional governments continue to support the industry through various other instruments. Notable examples are the direct subsidies for turbine manufacturers. Goldwind and Mingyang, two of the largest Chinese wind turbine manufacturers, each received 0.14 billion of these subsidies between 2018 and 2022 (Figure 6). For Mingyang, these subsidies have even increased substantially over recent years, from 0.02 billion in 2020 to 0.05 billion in 2022. Although they are much lower in absolute terms than those for the leading NEV manufacturers, they are of similar size in relation to business revenues as subsidies to car maker GAC. In 2021 and 2022, subsidies amounted to about 1.2%-1.3% of business revenues for Mingyang and about 0.4%-0.5% for Goldwind.

Figure 6

Direct government subsidies to Goldwind and Mingyang, 2018-2022

Note: Government subsidies consist of newly added longer-term government subsidies and new government subsidies of the year disclosed in the annual reports. Sources: Goldwind annual report 2018-2022 and Mingyang annual report 2018-2022; Deutsche Bundesbank (2024); authors own calculations and illustration.

In addition, there is a variety of indirect forms of support for the industry, including preferential land and financing arrangements (below-market debt and equity injections) from central or local governments. Another important form of support is lower prices for key inputs due to government subsidies or regulations in related industries. This includes, in particular, steel and rare earth materials but also shipping and shipbuilding, which are essential inputs in the offshore wind industry.

Limits to quantifying subsides and other forms of government support

The subsidies discussed above, however important, clearly underestimate the full extent of government support to Chinese companies as the Chinese subsidy system is extremely complex and intransparent, and it defies complete quantification. Subsidies are granted by different constituencies, and they can also be mediated by public financial institutions or SOEs. An open registry of public subsidies does not exist, and subsidies from local governments and support intermediated by SOEs are not adequately recorded (Chimits, 2023). The annual reports of publicly listed companies provide an alternative data source as these companies are legally obliged to report on subsidies received. However, listed firms account for just a small fraction of Chinese firms, and the annual reports only cover direct official subsidies and not the various more indirect or hidden forms of support that are omnipresent in China.

Public support is provided at almost all stages of production. Producers benefit not only from subsidies they receive, but also from subsidies provided to their suppliers (via cheaper input supplies) or customers (via increased demand). Due to the complexity of supply chains, it can be difficult to identify the final beneficiaries of government support. Moreover, Chinese producers benefit from tax breaks, below-market credits and below-market equity. OECD estimates suggest that these more indirect forms of support might be several times higher than the direct official subsidies (OECD, 2021).

Importantly, there are various other channels of government support for Chinese companies that are even harder to quantify. These include the Chinese governments long-term safeguarding of critical raw materials, forced technology transfer, strategic use of public procurement and preferential treatment of domestic firms in administrative procedures. While the use of such policy levers is not unique to China, the comprehensiveness and intensity of their use is unparalleled (Chimits, 2023), and likely to have a substantial impact on the competitiveness of Chinese industries.

Discussion

The empirical evidence presented in this article clearly shows that China strongly subsidises manufacturing industries that rank high on its economic policy agenda, including many green-tech industries. Here industrial policies are targeted to help China to become independent of foreign technology, to establish itself as a global supplier of key manufactured products and to further strengthen its role as a leading export nation (Bickenbach & Liu, 2023). Extensive government support has allowed Chinese green manufacturing industries to scale up rapidly and to start dominating the Chinese home market and increasingly also foreign markets. This is true for solar panels or batteries for EVs, where Chinese companies have dominated the EU markets for several years now, and increasingly also for BEV and wind turbines where Chinese companies are only just starting to penetrate EU markets.

The European Commission has made clear that it is prepared to take strong action against subsidised imports from China. In October 2023, it officially launched an anti-subsidy investigation into the import of BEV from China (European Commission, 2023). And in April 2024, Commissioner Vestager announced the launch of an investigation under the newly enacted Foreign Subsidies Regulations into Chinese wind turbine companies participating in the development of wind parks in five European countries (Vestager, 2024). In the BEV case, the European Commission stated on 12 June 2024 that as part of its ongoing investigation it has provisionally concluded that the battery electric vehicles (BEV) value chain in China benefits from unfair subsidisation, which is causing a threat of economic injury to EU BEV producers (European Commision, 2024c). As a result, the Commission announced the imposition of countervailing duties on imports of BEVs from China that would be introduced from 4 July 2024, should discussions with Chinese authorities not lead to an effective WTO-compatible solution. The duties would range from 17.4% for BYD to 38.1% for SAIC as well as all other BEV producers in China that did not cooperate in the investigation (European Commission, 2024c).

However, whether such an intervention would be in the interest of the EU is anything but clear. An increase in import restrictions on green-tech products from China would likely lead at least in the short term to higher costs of such products in the EU and could make the green transition of the EU economy more expensive and slower. This applies even more to import restrictions on those green technology products for which the EU industry currently has too little capacity to meet the increasing domestic demand such as EV batteries or wind turbines.

From a more dynamic perspective, such an argument may neglect important geopolitical externalities, path dependencies, and the issue of technology control in key industries. Battery cell technology, for example, is not only one of the key technologies in the energy transition, but also a general-purpose technology (GPT). Early mover advantages and spillovers into related sectors (aviation, underwater shipbuilding, medicine) could make it beneficial to push such technologies and avoid one-sided dependencies on systemic competitors like China. Import restrictions on such products may thus help reduce the EUs critical reliance on China (de-risking) or even strengthen national security given the espionage or sabotage risks brought up against imports of wind turbines or connected cars from China.

On the other hand, due to Chinas strong position as a production base for European firms and as a source of many critical products for the EU market (Langhammer, 2022), China has strong retaliatory capabilities against the EU. Hence, the costs for EU industries and consumers of import restrictions on subsidised Chinese goods could increase considerably if the Chinese government were to respond with countermeasures such as export restrictions on inputs on which the (green-tech) industries in the EU are heavily reliant, such as refined rare earths. Such export restrictions would harm the EU industry not just on the internal EU market but also with respect to its exports to China or third-country markets. And export restrictions on necessary inputs are just one of a myriad of possible countermeasures through which China could harm EU companies in the industry directly affected by EU measures or indeed any other EU companies trading with or producing in China. This is likely one reason why German carmakers, who are heavily engaged in trading, production and R&D in China, are rather sceptical about a potential EU intervention.

Even without considering possible Chinese retaliatory measures, it is far from clear whether and to what extent EU industry would actually benefit from restrictions on Chinese imports. Take, for example, the case of EU import duties on BEV from China. First, these tariffs would also affect imports of BEV manufactured by European (German) companies producing in China. Second, the (direct) effect of EU import tariffs on BEV from China would be restricted to the EU market, and would not help European producers on third-country markets and in China itself. Third, EU import tariffs would be equivalent to an implicit tax on EU exports since the domestic price of imports would rise relative to the price of exports. This would impede EU export competitiveness in related markets as well, and not only in the BEV market. Fourth, less intense competition due to import restrictions could reduce the EU industrys incentives to invest in R&D and in cost-efficient production facilities, thereby weakening the industry in the medium term.

From a purely industrial economics point of view, tariff protection or subsidies for the EU industry could be justified if subsidised imports from China would hinder the EU industry from scaling up and achieving the economies of scale necessary to compete internationally. Given the strong increase in demand and the comparatively high transport costs for BEV (or for other heavy and large green energy products such as wind turbines), it seems likely that the industry will be able to substantially increase production in the EU despite increasing Chinese imports. At least in the medium term, companies producing in Europe can be expected to have a substantial advantage in serving EU customers (the more so as import tariffs for BEV into the EU now stand at 10% even without additional countervailing duties). As technologies mature, manufacturers will have increased incentives to expand production near consumers to reduce shipping costs (Springford & Tordoir, 2023). We would thus also expect Chinese BEV manufacturers (like Chinese EV battery manufacturers before them) to build up production capacities in Europe to serve the EU market, unless they are prevented from doing so by Chinese or EU policy.

So how then should the EU deal with the problem of subsidised imports from China? In our view, there is a case in favour of driving forward the current EU proceedings against imports of green-tech products from China. The EU should use the information obtained there and its strong bargaining power due to the single market to enter into negotiations with the Chinese government and to try to induce the Chinese government to abolish the Chinese support measures that are particularly harmful to the EU. Given the current weak macroeconomic situation in China, the focus of the Chinese government on its political conflicts with the US and, at the same time, the relative strength of Chinas green-tech industries, there is a realistic chance that such negotiations will be successful.
For Irish business seeking assistance and support on its China journey, one of its first stops must be the Ireland China Science and Technology Association.

Established in Ireland in 2017, ICSATA has received support and endorsement from the Irish Embassy to China, the Chinese Embassy to Ireland, all the relevant departments from both the Irish and Chinese governments, the European Commission, and the Mission of China to the EU.

Its aim is to develop an international platform for science and technology exchanges to promote the overall collaboration between Ireland, EU and China, notably in technology, trade, culture and education. It helps promote the China-Ireland bilateral relationship at all levels. ICSATA also assists their market entry, investment, trade and other business activities across Ireland/EU and China.

When we first established ICSATA in 2017, it was a part-time job for me; by 2019, it was so busy it became a full-time role, said Wen Chen, chair of ICSATA.

However, due to the Covid pandemic in 2020, the associations activities were impacted for the following two years.

It was a challenging time, but we survived and saw business activity return in 2022. This year we are reaching a historical high. We have just recently received a 30-person delegation from Shaanxi, site of the famous Terracotta Warriors, and the birthplace of our President, Xi Jinping, for a technology and trade conference in Limerick. Earlier this month we also welcomed another delegation from Chengdu.

As CEO and chair of Ireland China Science And Technology Association, Wen has over 18 years experience working in the telecom industry across retail, customer service, technical support, marketing, business development, account management and PR.

He supported Cubic Telecom for their China market development since 2014, and previous to that worked for Ding for five years where he was promoted as the Regional Head of Europe and China. Before Ding, Wen also worked in Vodafone Ireland for thre years as a Consumer Propositions Executive in Marketing. Appointed by Anqiu Municipal Government as the Director of Talent Workstation of Anqiu City to Ireland in 2018, Wen was also honoured as the Ningbo Culture Ambassador by Ningbo Municipal Government in 2017.

At the official opening of the Irish pavilion at the China International Consumer Products Expo at Haikou in April, Ireland was guest of honour this year, showcasing Irish food and drink, healthcare, fashion and technology, as well as State bodies such as Culture Ireland, Tourism Ireland, Bord Bia, the IDA and Enterprise Ireland.

The Expo gave Ireland an opportunity to build on its position as a hub for Chinese technology companies in Europe. The Irish people and the Irish Government are especially friendly with the Chinese. Secondly, Ireland is traditionally strong in ICT, pharmaceuticals, data centres, and also recently the AI cloud computing sectors that attract the high tech companies, he said.

The Irish Pavilion was the largest ever in size, with 40 brands exhibiting there, including ourselves in ICSATA. The expo was a great success and was the result of the great efforts made by the Irish Ambassador, Ann Derwin. Ireland successfully competed against Germany to be the official guest of honour at this important event, which was quite an achievement.

ICSATA has created an international scientific and technological exchange and cooperation platform by integrating the whole eco-system of production, academic and research, strengthening the exchange and interactive development between China-Ireland technology companies, universities and scientific research institutions. One key partner is China Science and Technology Association (CAST).

Since 2023 when the Chinese government lifted the international travel ban, the exchanges and relationship between the two countries has been growing very strongly. And already in 2024, we are experiencing another high tide on co-operation between the two countries.

ICSATA is dedicated to promoting the education collaboration between Ireland and China, focusing not only the education courses, but also the talent exchanges. Since its establishment, ICSATA has been actively bridging the education exchanges by working closely with governments, universities, R&D institutes, companies and individuals in the two countries.

The priority of ICSATA is to promote Ireland, but especially for the non-Dublin regions. We have come to realise that the biggest business opportunity is not in the capital city  it is actually outside of Dublin, especially in ICT, AI technology and hospitality.

"There are very significant opportunities to develop business in cities like Limerick, Galway and Cork. This is the reason we are focusing our promotions into the non-Dublin regions, and it is already paying dividends with more and more Chinese attention being focused in these thriving cities outside the capital.

Tim Crowe, CEO of WrxFlo, with senior executives at the opening of the firm's Beijing office.

WrxFlo delivering its data services to global clientele

WrxFlo helps its customers get the right data insights to achieve greater levels of process efficiency throughout the supply chain. Based at its Limerick head office, WrxFlo works with clients across the globe in a range of sectors to achieve a single source of truth from their various data streams.

We give our customers access to all their data in real-time and help them understand the problems they are facing throughout their supply chain, explains CEO Tim Crowe. We do this by connecting their manufacturing and management systems and visualising all their data in their WrxFlo dashboards, accessible anywhere in the world.

WrxFlo was founded in 2019, having identified a unique gap in the market of combining technology solutions/data insights with the experience of delivering very specific business and customer outcomes.

Having graduated from UL with a BSc in Production Engineering & MSc Project Management, Tim has setup several Dell factories globally and has held global roles such as Engineering Director, Director of Operations and Factory Managing Director for Dell. Tim also led the global factory continuous improvement programme.

Having worked in China early in his career setting up a supply chain for Dell to sell to Europe and the United States, it was the experience of seeing the problems that arose in factories that inspired him and others to set up WrxFlo.

We give a real-time view of the entire supply chain and we make it work really efficiently and maximise the value from that, he said. Having opened a Beijing office for WrxFlo in April, he sees big opportunities not only to provide services to Chinese companies, but also to bring innovative technology back to Europe. As an exhibitor at the China International Consumer Products Expo in Haikou, he highlighted the introduction of visa-free access for Irish visitors to China as another important step in easing access to this vast market. Opening the Beijing office is an essential move for his company.

If I was in China and I was looking to an Irish company that was putting a presence in here, youre very far away. Thats why we opened in the office. We are building a team here so that the businesses that we work with know that they can go to the local team and be supported here. I think thats really important if were going to win new business, he said.

I lived in China ten years ago, working for Dell, and have built up a lot of contacts. So when we set up WrxFlo, we worked with Wen at ICSATA to look at the best place to set up customer centre and support office, and opened in Beijing back in April. Really, when youre going into a market and want to grow there, you have to have a presence there. And we have our first Chinese national, Christina from Shanghai, who has been with us for the past two years in Dublin, now moving there to run that office.

"She understands our business, our culture, our products, and will focus on China now. It is great that we already have reference sites in China, and now we are looking at growing the business  but also partnering with technology companies there, small businesses like ourselves. We will bring our solutions to manufacturing in China, and will look at innovative solutions from our partners there.

Prior to setting up WrxFlo, Tim lived with his family in China and worked as the CEO of the Dell Chengdu facility. Having designed, built and run that facility, it gave him a deep understanding of the Chinese market and the challenges of running operations there. As WrxFlo expands its expertise in China, the company aims to establish itself as a trusted partner in the Chinese market and contribute to the countrys economic growth and digital transformation.

Support agencies like Enterprise Ireland and people like Wen at ICSATA are important for companies entering the Chinese market in helping guide them to do things the right way. It is important to do the right thing in China, making sure everything is set up properly and basically covering all the bases. It does help to set up an office in China, people over there feel much more comfortable doing business knowing you have those foundations in place.

Despite a turbulent world, with wars, climate change and political unrest combining to create a mood of uncertainty, Tim sees the steadily building relationship between Ireland and China continuing to grow into the future.

The relationship between the two countries is very good, and is becoming more accessible all the time, as evidenced by the new visa situation. There is a perception out there that China is a very difficult place to do business and that there are many challenges involved, but the Chinese are making a lot of changes to improve access, and there is a lot of effort on their side and the different provinces to reach out.

"They know they have a partner bringing foreign business to help their economy, and they dont just want to attract big companies but also small companies that will grow bigger over time. And that is good news for any Irish companies that are looking to go there to do business.
Eurozone nations must start reducing their national debt immediately in the face of enormous long-term fiscal risks from ageing populations, defence spending and climate change, the European Central Bank (ECB) has warned.

In an article, the ECB argued each of these developments would be challenging in isolation but a number of countries will face all of them simultaneously.

The ECB said action needs to be taken today  especially in high-debt countries grappling with elevated interest rates.

In relation to defence spending, the article does note that as Ireland  along with Cyprus, Malta, and Austria  is not a member of Nato, there is no requirement to spend as much as 2% of GDP on defence.

According to the ECB, budgetary efforts required in response to these specific challenges could amount to at least 5% of gross domestic product.

The necessary fiscal adjustment is large by historical standards, but not without precedent, it said.

The warning comes at a time of heightened concern about the sustainability of public finances in the 20-nation bloc  not least in France, where the shock announcement of snap elections, following the European elections, has raised doubts about fiscal consolidation which triggered market turmoil.

The European Commission has since reprimanded France, Italy and several other EU countries for running budget shortfalls above the blocs 3% limit.

Fiscal-sustainability challenges are low in all EU member-states in the short term, while being elevated in the medium and long term in several countries, due to projected high and/or increasing debt ratios in some member-states, the commission said.

The ECB said in addition to existing budgetary issues, which are often reflected in high debt ratios, further challenges loom that will result in significant fiscal burdens in the decades ahead". Among those, it said, was digitalisation.

Governments would have to immediately and permanently increase primary balances by 2% of GDP on average to achieve a government debt-to-GDP ratio of 60% by 2070 from todays debt levels, the ECB said.

On top of that, ageing, defence spending and climate change could widen the average deficit by about a further 3% of GDP, it said.

In its spring 2024 post-programme surveillance report, the EU Commission said Ireland retains the capacity to service its debt and despite a number of challenges, its economic, fiscal and financial situation is sound overall.

According to the commissions debt sustainability analysis, Ireland is assessed to face low risks in the short and medium term, while long-term risks appear to be medium.

It added the outlook for the public finances was benign, though certain risks on fiscal sustainability persist, such as the impact of an ageing population and measures to offset the cost-of-living crisis.

The proportion of the population over 64 relative to the working-age, 20 to 64, population is projected to more than double between 2022 and 2070, and pension system expenditure is estimated to increase by 2.8% of GDP in the same period, making Ireland one of the EU member states with a higher future cost of ageing," the commission said.

"The establishment of saving funds could mitigate long- term fiscal sustainability risks."

As of the end of May, the country's national debt stands at 243.1bn.

Bloomberg
A cancelled flight can be stressful, but it is important to know your rights and what exactly you are entitled to.

What to do if your flight is cancelled

If your flight is cancelled, you are entitled to a choice of either a full refund or a re-routing. This includes re-routing as close as possible to the original departure time or re-routing at a later date.

It is worth noting that if you are offered a re-routing that departed no more than one hour before your original departure time and arrived no more than two hours after the original arrival time, you are not entitled to compensation.

But if you choose to be re-routed as soon as possible, the air carrier must provide you with care and assistance while you wait for the alternative flight. This may include accommodation if an overnight stay is necessary and meals and refreshments, depending on how long you are waiting. It may also include transport between the hotel and airport if needed and two phone calls, emails or faxes.

Compensation also depends on the notice you were given of the cancelled flight. If you are informed more than two weeks before you are due to fly, unfortunately, you are not entitled to compensation. This gets a little trickier depending on the offered re-routing and notice of cancellation.

According to the Consumer Association of Ireland, if you are notified between seven days and two weeks before your flight and you were given an alternative option which left no more than two hours before your original flights departure time and arrived no more than four hours after the original arrival time, you are not entitled to compensation.

In the case of less than seven days notice, if the alternative flight left no more than one hour before your original flights departure time and arrived no more than two hours following the original arrival time, you are also not entitled to compensation.

If your cancellation falls outside of this, the compensation you are entitled to will depend on the distance of the flight. This can range from 250 for flights less than 1,500km to 600 for flights more than 3,500km.

However, if the air carrier proves the flight cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances, such as extreme weather or security risks, and was therefore unavoidable, no compensation is payable.

Depending on your airline, you may be entitled to a daily allowance while your baggage is delayed.

What to do if your luggage is lost

Under the Montreal Convention, the airline you fly with is liable if your checked luggage is lost, delayed or damaged  and not the airport.

If your bag fails to appear on the carousel upon arrival, report it as soon as possible to the luggage claim area. Here, you should fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) with the details of your bag.

The PIR is used to help trace your bag, but it is important to hold on to a copy of this in case you are asked for proof of reporting the issue. You may also be asked for your luggage tag number, which you should get during check-in, so be sure to hold on to this too. It is also advised to keep any receipts of any essential items you have had to purchase because of the delay or loss of baggage.

Following this, get the contact details for the baggage department. Some airlines have a number specifically for issues with luggage through which you can report it missing. In the case of Aer Lingus, you can check the status of a bag that has been reported as missing by using their designated baggage tracing service.

Depending on your airline, you may be entitled to a daily allowance while your baggage is delayed, so be sure to ask about this.

The compensation you are entitled to again depends on the airline.

As stated by the Consumer Association of Ireland, you must submit a written complaint to the airline as soon as possible once your luggage has been missing for 21 days and is therefore deemed to be lost. For delayed baggage, the same complaint should be made within 21 days of it arriving.

Alternatively, depending on your travel insurance, you may be able to make a claim under your policy. If not, be sure to submit all receipts when making your claim. In the case of lost baggage, you must also submit as many original receipts as possible for the contents or proof of purchase of the items.

Queues at Dublin Airport. Picture: Martha Brennan

What to do if your flight is delayed

In the case of a short-haul flight (1,500km), the delay must be more than two hours while for a long-haul flight, (between 1,500km and 3,500km), it must be more than three hours. With other flights, the delay must be more than four hours.

In these cases, the air carrier may be obliged to provide meals or refreshments, depending on the length of the delay. If an overnight stay is needed, then this should also be covered along with transport between the hotel and airport.

If the air carrier cannot provide this, be sure to keep any receipts and you should be reimbursed for these additional expenses.

Passengers whose flight is delayed beyond the specified timeframe are also entitled to two free phone calls.

If the delay exceeds five hours and you decide to no longer take the flight, you are entitled to a full reimbursement.

This article was originally published in July 2022
It is "disappointing" that Cork County Council is falling behind business payments, Enterprise Minister Peter Burke has told the Seanad.

Cork County Council was last month among a number of local authorities that were criticised by Enterprise Minister Peter Burke for the speed of its payments under the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) grant.

The council told the Irish Examiner last month that it "has allocated significant resources to this project to ensure businesses will receive payment in a timely manner".

However, in the Seanad on Tuesday, Mr Burke said that in the case of Cork County Council, 1,029 SMEs have received a grant, representing about 2m worth of payments under the 257m scheme. Mr Burke said that "Cork County Council is working on processing the remaining 4,901 properties that have registered for the grant".

Mr Burke said that he had sought meetings with council officials on the issue but had been rebuffed.

"In relation to Cork County Council, it is disappointing that they are lagging behind the rest of local authority network.

"I was in Cork last Thursday and offered to meet with the executive or those administering the grant and unfortunately, they were unavailable to meet. I asked to meet with a team who are doing the actual administration which I think is very important, but unfortunately they were not available to meet either.

"I raised my concerns with the CCMA [County and City Management Association] and I know that Moira Murrell, the new chief executive took office yesterday and she has assured me of her full cooperation in relation to this. Unfortunately and I say this in no arrogant way, Government ministers have very little time when you are going to a constituency, you really need the cooperation of the local authority network to work with you."

'Shocking'

Senator Tim Lombard, who raised the matter in the Seanad, said that the figures were "shocking".

"If we are dealing with a scenario that they have only paid 1,000 of the potential 6,000 grants and we gave a commitment as a people and as a Government that this would be paid by the end of April, start of May, that is absolutely shocking. The accountability here is frightening for me. Small businesses are on their knees. The money is in the bank account.

"There is potentially 25m waiting at the moment to be paid out. Two grants have been paid out from the local authority in Cork itself and 90% have been paid out across the country. We have a problem here regarding how this happened. I am deeply frustrated by this. It is not the Minister's fault because he made the money available, but it is deeply frustrating that the local authority has left the businesses of Cork hanging for the money. It is just not good enough."

Mr Lombard said that the delay in payments could see businesses go to the wall, while Mr Burke said that he had received a text message from the acting chief executive of Cork County Council "stating that she was available to have a phone conversation".

"My view is that we had enough virtual meetings during the Covid pandemic. When I go into a constituency, I want to sit down with the team, talk to them in person and help them, with a view to being proactive."
A "potential catastrophe" is on the cards if the talks between Aer Lingus and the Irish Airline Pilots Association (Ialpa) do not end with a resolution, a leading travel agent has said.

Ialpa members who work for the airline served notice of their intention to go on indefinite work-to-rule, from Wednesday, June 26.

This will mean pilots will not do any overtime or out-of-hours duties requested by management, with the action set to begin from a minute past midnight on Wednesday, June 26.

Clare Dunne, chief executive of the Irish Travel Agents Association, told RTE's Morning Ireland that the group were "extremely concerned" about the industrial action.

She said: "The potential catastrophe is a disaster for the travelling public, it is dreadful.

"They are the victims of all of this, the people who have been looking forward to their holidays for many, many months.

"They've paid a lot of money and this could be their one trip of the year to get away from the normal toll of ordinary life

"These people are earning a lot less than pilots."

Ms Dunne warned it was "too late" for people to take out travel insurance as the companies would mark the disruption as a 'known event'.

She said that there would "inevitably" be disruption for passengers.

The Irish Airline Pilots Association at the Forsa building in Dublin. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/ RollingNews.ie

She explained: "It's very difficult to know at this point  it (work to rule) is better in one way as flights will be operating.

"But inevitably, there will be disruption."

She gave an example of a flight being delayed on the inbound route, which may end up taking cabin crew and pilots out of hours.

This, in turn, would take them over their scheduled work hours and they could decide not to go as a result under work-to-rule.

The dispute between pilots and the airline centres around pay.

Members are seeking a 23.8% pay rise over the next three years, but they have already rejected a Labour Court recommendation of an increase of 9.25%

Ms Dunne noted that it currently is the busiest period of the year for airlines and flights, a time which usually sees a reliance on pilots and cabin crew working overtime or answering the phone out of hours to cover the increase in demand and flights.

There had been a "big fall-off" in the number of people booking with Aer Lingus in the wake of the breakdown in talks and industrial action, she said.

"People can't change if they're booked with Aer Lingus  if they do, they'll be penalised.

"For people who have booked, our advice is to sit tight. Talk to your travel agent, and we'll see how it pans out  that's all we can do at this point."
Three gay men were hunted down by a group carrying knives while walking in Phoenix Park this week, it has been claimed.

The shocking incident was highlighted in the Seanad by Fine Gaels Barry Ward who had been alerted to the homophobic incident by one of the men who was targeted.

He said: Yesterday, I received a report from (name withheld) who was in Phoenix Park with two of his friends. They were chased down and, as he said, hunted by six men with knives.

He and his friends got away from their pursuers but God knows what would have happened if they had not.

Apparently the Phoenix Park is not safe for people. These guys were just walking through the park and were chased by six men.

Mr Ward asked: What on earth is going on that this still happens in Ireland in 2024 when every right thinking member of society recognised the normality of sexual relationships between people of the same gender or same sex?

Senator Barry Ward revealed details of the attack in the Seanad.

Highlighting the fact that the incident took place during Pride Month and ahead of Dublin Pride on June 29, the senator said that, as a country, we have come so far with the passing of the marriage equality referendum and yet we also know that there are people in this country who do not acknowledge or accept it.

Mr Ward questioned the lack of a strong garda presence in the park and told the Seanad that when the three friends had gone to report the incident they were told that there was no CCTV.

There needs to be at least patrols in Phoenix Park to protect people.

If needs be, there needs to be further education for the park rangers or for other garda presence in Phoenix Park to protect people because attacks are absolutely unacceptable, and particularly in this month.

Acting Seanad leader Fiona OLoughlin described the incident as shocking.

We have changed our legislation. Unfortunately, there are people who have not changed their minds and hearts. That is what we need to work on and that is why Pride is so important, so we can celebrate and empower those in the LGBT community, she said.

She agreed that there should be a full debate on the matter in the Seanad.

Mr Ward added that there attacks on people because of their sexuality happens far too regularly.

He said: I think of people like Declan Flynn who was murdered in Fairview. I think of people like Michael Snee and Aidan Moffitt.

I think of Marcin Malinowski who is an engineer who was beaten senseless as he cycled on his way home simply because the people who attacked him wanted to kill the faggot. Those people are still out there.

Gardai said they are "aware of an incident alleged to have occurred in the Phoenix Park, Dublin 8 on Monday night" but that following a lengthy patrol of the area, "no person made any formal report to An Garda Siochana".

They appealed to anyone with direct knowledge or who has been a victim of such an incident in the area to contact Cabra Garda Station on 01 666 7400, the Diversity Unit at the Garda National Community Engagement Bureau on 01 666 3150 or through an advocacy group.

"Following the reports of this alleged incident, An Garda Siochana through the Garda National Community Engagement Bureau and Community Policing Unit in Cabra Garda Station have been in contact with LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups," a statement said.
On June 12, the European Union announced new provisional levies on Chinese electric-vehicle imports (EVs), based on how much state support manufacturers receive.

The tariffs follow a months-long investigation in to China's use of financial subsidies, and they will be imposed on top of the 10% tariff that the EU already has in place.

They are 'provisional' because they might be revised downward, if Chinese producers offer evidence that the support they receive is less than estimated.

Separately, if the EU can reach an agreement with China to reduce the volume of Chinese EV imports, the tariffs may not be implemented.

The tariffs reflect the EU's upper-bound estimate of the total subsidy per vehicle that Chinese producers receive from all levels of government throughout their supply chains.

The investigators sent requests for co-operation to all Chinese EV producers, and selected three from among those who complied: BYD, Geely, and SAIC.

They then pored over those companies records and interviewed company insiders and industry experts.

Concluding that the rates of subsidies are 17.4% at BYD, 20% at Geely, and 38.1% at SAIC, the investigators set tariffs on each company accordingly.

All other EV producers who co-operated with investigators will face a tariff of 21% (the weighted average of the three), while producers who have not co-operated will be subject to a 38.1% tariff.

The EU's findings provide insight into the true nature of the United States's 100% 'anti-subsidy' tariff on Chinese EVs. The US tariff, announced last month, is so much higher than any reasonable estimate of Chinese subsidies that its protectionist intent is obvious.

Even before Joe Biden's administration imposed the 100% levy on Chinese EVs, US tariffs on Chinese imports  erected under Donald Trump, but carried over by Biden  were already at levels similar to the infamous US Smoot-Hawley tariffs of the 1930s.

In 2020, a World Trade Organisation panel ruled that these tariffs are inconsistent with US legal obligations at the WTO. But both the Trump and Biden administrations have chosen to ignore WTO rules.

Most governments have said nothing publicly about the US policy, partly because the tariffs have raised the relative competitiveness of their own products in the same market, by reducing Chinese producers competitiveness.

Following the Trump tariffs, direct US imports from China declined precipitously, while imports from Mexico, India, Vietnam, and many other countries increased.

Some commentators seem to believe that since Chinas cost advantage is so large, a 30% tariff is not enough to curtail Chinese EV exports. But this assumption is mistaken for two reasons.

Firstly, because different markets have different standards, particularly for safety, auto producers often adjust car designs, and this reduces the number of sales per model in a given market. Secondly, any model needs to reach a threshold of sales volume to be profitable. Thus, any tariff that can reduce the expected quantity of sales could remove the incentive for exporting to that market altogether.

Some Chinese EV producers might consider locating production in the US, which could be good for US job creation and tax revenues. But since the US government review of inbound foreign investment is perceived to be anti-China, many Chinese firms may simply give up on the US market entirely.

The primary victims of the US tariffs (besides Chinese exporters and US consumers) are producers from smaller countries that now face an elevated risk of larger countries imposing protectionist measures with seeming impunity.

As EVs are an important tool in the worlds transition to a net-zero economy, some subsidies are better than none. A globally efficient subsidy rate for EV production and consumption is higher in the absence of a sufficiently high global carbon tax. The EU and US probably prefer tariffs on foreign goods to subsidies on domestic EV production, because both are already burdened by high levels of debt.

The new tariffs will harm Chinese EV manufacturers prospects, in terms of profits and jobs. But they are also bad for European and US households, because they will raise prices (domestic producers will face less competitive pressure) and delay the transition from highly polluting traditional automobiles.

By shutting Chinese EVs out of the US and EU markets, the tariffs may drive an increase in Chinese exports to elsewhere. That will benefit consumers in those countries, and ease their transition to cleaner transportation. Among countries with small domestic auto industries, such as Australia and New Zealand, there are no obvious losers. But for countries with a sizable auto industry, there will be even greater competitive pressure, and these governments may feel compelled to imitate the US and the EU.

The world would have been much better off if major powers had negotiated a common pro-climate subsidy scheme for EVs, and a common tax on carbon emissions. Instead, we may get a self-destructive race to the bottom.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have signed a comprehensive strategic partnership that includes a vow of mutual aid if either country is attacked.

Mr Putin and Mr Kim spoke face-to-face for about two hours during a summit in Pyongyang  a meeting that was originally planned for one hour, Russian state media said.

It was not clear what kind of assistance the partnership deal would call for.

The Russian leaders first visit to North Korea in 24 years comes amid growing concerns over an arms arrangement in which North Korea provides Russia with badly needed munitions for Moscows war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Mr Kims nuclear weapons and missile programme.

The visit comes amid sky-high tensions over Ukraine and the Norths relations with the South (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Speaking before the summit, Mr Putin thanked Kim for North Koreas support in Ukraine and said the two countries would sign the agreement to boost their partnership as both fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council sanctions over its weapons programme, while Russia also faces sanctions by the US and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Russia media said earlier that Mr Kim will host a reception, and Mr Putin is expected to leave on Wednesday evening for Vietnam.

The leaders have vowed even closer cooperation (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Before the summit, Mr Putin hailed ties that date to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of the Second World War, and Moscows support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

Mr Kim said relations between Moscow and Pyongyang are now even closer than during Soviet times and called Putins visit an opportunity to solidify their fiery friendship.

The North Korean leader vowed his countrys full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity. It was not immediately clear what that support might look like.

Huge crowds greeted the leaders in Pyongyang (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Mr Kim has used similar language in the past, consistently saying North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russias interests and blaming the crisis on the US-led Wests hegemonic policy.

He also hailed Russias important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.

Before the talks, Mr Kim welcomed Mr Putin with a lavish ceremony in the citys main square, where he introduced key members of the North Korean leadership including foreign minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and the leaders powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong.

Huge crowds lined up on the streets to greet Mr Putins motorcade, chanting Welcome Putin and waving flowers and North Korean and Russian flags.

The leaders hailed their fiery friendship and historical ties (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

Mr Putin was accompanied by several top officials, including deputy prime minister Denis Mantrurov, defence minister Andrei Belousov and foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, according to his foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov.

US and South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid.

Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple UN Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Mr Kims continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking US-led efforts to impose fresh UN sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

Vladimir Putins motorcade travels down a main boulevard in Pyongyang (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of UN sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear programme, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine.

US and South Korean officials have said they are discussing options for a new mechanism for monitoring the North.

South Korean analysts say that Mr Kim will likely seek stronger economic benefits and more advanced military technologies from Russia, although his more sensitive discussions with Mr Putin are not likely to be made public.

While Mr Kims military nuclear programme now includes developmental intercontinental ballistic missiles that can potentially reach the US mainland, he may need outside technology help to meaningfully advance his programme.

Mr Putin was joined by senior ministers at the visit (Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

There are already possible signs that Russia is assisting North Korea with technologies related to space rockets and military reconnaissance satellites, which Mr Kim has described as crucial for monitoring South Korea and enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles.

The North may also seek to increase labour exports to Russia and other illicit activities to gain foreign currency in defiance of UN Security Council sanctions, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas main spy agency.

There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and further promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.

In Washington, US secretary of state Antony Blinken said Mr Putins visit to North Korea illustrates how Russia tries, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

Mr Blinken told reporters following a meeting with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg: North Korea is providing significant munitions to Russia  and other weapons for use in Ukraine. Iran has been providing weaponry, including drones, that have been used against civilians and civilian infrastructure.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Mr Kims weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the United States, South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle.

The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tonnes of refuse on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with loudspeakers.
A court in Russias far eastern city of Vladivostok has convicted a visiting American soldier of stealing and making threats of murder, sentencing him to three years and nine months in prison.

Staff Sgt Gordon Black, 34, flew to the Pacific port city to see his girlfriend and was arrested last month after she accused him of stealing from her, according to US officials and Russian authorities.

Russias state news agencies Tass and RIA Novosti reported that the judge in Pervomaisky district court in Vladivostok also ordered Black to pay 10,000 roubles (around 90) in damages.

Prosecutors had asked for a sentence of four years and eight months in prison.

Blacks sentencing further complicates US-Russian relations, which have grown increasingly tense as the fighting in Ukraine continues.

Russia has jailed a number of Americans, including corporate security executive Paul Whelan and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. The US government has designated both men as wrongfully detained and has been trying to negotiate their release.

The incident followed a domestic dispute with his Russian girlfriend (AP)

Others detained include Travis Leake, a musician who has been living in Russia for years and was arrested last year on drug-related charges; Marc Fogel, a teacher in Moscow who was sentenced to 14 years in prison, also on drug charges; and dual nationals Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Khavana.

The US state department strongly advises American citizens not to go to Russia.

Black was on leave and in the process of returning to his home base at Fort Cavazos, Texas, from South Korea, where he had been stationed at Camp Humphreys with the Eighth Army.

Cynthia Smith, an Army spokesperson, said Black signed out for his move back home and, instead of returning to the continental United States, Black flew from Incheon, Republic of Korea, through China to Vladivostok, Russia, for personal reasons.

Under Pentagon policy, service members must get clearance for any international travel from a security manager or commander.

The soldier was also accused of making threats to kill (AP)

The US army said last month that Black had not sought such travel clearance and it was not authorised by the defence department. Given the hostilities in Ukraine and threats to the US and its military, it is extremely unlikely he would have been granted approval.

Blacks girlfriend, Alexandra Vashchuk, told reporters earlier this month that it was a simple domestic dispute, during which Black became aggressive and attacked her.

He then stole money from my wallet and I didnt give him permission to do it, Ms Vashchuk said.

On Wednesday, she told Russian news outlet Gazeta.ru that she considers the sentence quite humane and described Black as violent and unable to control himself.

US officials have said that Black, who is married, met Ms Vashchuk in South Korea.

According to US officials, she had lived in South Korea, and last autumn she and Black got into some type of domestic dispute or altercation.

After that, she left South Korea. It is not clear if she was forced to leave or what, if any, role South Korean authorities had in the matter.
Hundreds of people died during this years Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced intense high temperatures at Islamic holy sites, officials have said.

Saudi Arabia has not commented on the death toll amid the heat during the pilgrimage, which is required of every able Muslim once in their life, nor has the kingdom outlined any causes for those who died.

Hundreds of people have lined up at the Emergency Complex in Al-Muaisem area in Mecca, trying to get information about missing family members.

One list circulating online suggested at least 550 people died during the five-day Hajj. One medic said that the names listed appeared genuine.

That medic and another official said they believed at least 600 bodies were being stored at the facility. The list offered no cause of death.

There has been no official death toll from Saudi authorities (AP)

Each year, the Hajj draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from low-income nations, many of whom have had little, if any, pre-Hajj health care, an article in the April edition of the Journal of Infection and Public Health said.

Communicable illnesses can spread among the gathered masses, many of whom saved their entire lives for their trips and can be elderly with pre-existing health conditions, the paper added.

However, the number of dead this year suggests something caused the number of deaths to swell. Already, several countries have said some of their pilgrims died because of intense heat that swept across the holy sites at Mecca, including Jordan and Tunisia.

Temperatures on Tuesday reached 47C in Mecca and the sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Centre for Meteorology. Onlookers saw some people faint while trying to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil.

Others, including many Egyptians, lost track of their loved ones in the heat and the crowds. More than 1.83 million Muslims performed the Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million pilgrims from 22 countries, and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.

On Wednesday at the medical complex in Mecca, an Egyptian man collapsed to the ground when he heard the name of mother among the dead. He cried for some time before grabbing his mobile phone and calling a travel agent, shouting: He left her to die! The crowd tried to calm the man.

Casting stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil is pilgrims last rite at the annual Hajj (AP)

Security appeared tight at the complex, with an official reading out names of the dead and the nationalities, which included people from Algeria, Egypt and India. Those who said they were kin of the dead were allowed inside to identify the deceased.

The kingdoms ruling Al Saud family maintains a major influence in the Muslim world through its oil wealth and management of Islams holiest sites.

Like Saudi monarchs before him, King Salman has taken the title of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, referring to the Grand Mosque in Mecca home to the cube-shaped Kaaba that Muslims pray towards five times a day, and the Prophets Mosque in the nearby city of Medina.

Saudi Arabia has spent billions of dollars on crowd control and safety measures for those attending the annual five-day pilgrimage, but the sheer number of participants makes ensuring their safety difficult.

Climate change could make the risk even greater. A 2019 study by experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that even if the world succeeds in mitigating the worst effects of climate change, the Hajj would be held in temperatures exceeding an extreme danger threshold from 2047 to 2052, and from 2079 to 2086.

Islam follows a lunar calendar, so the Hajj falls around 11 days earlier each year. In 2030, the Hajj will occur in April, and over the next several years it will fall in the winter, when temperatures are milder.

A 2015 stampede in Mina during the hajj killed over 2,400 pilgrims, the deadliest incident to ever strike the pilgrimage, an AP count showed.

Saudi Arabia has never acknowledged the full toll of the stampede. A separate crane collapse at Meccas Grand Mosque, which preceded the Mina disaster, killed 111 people.

The second-deadliest incident at hajj was a 1990 stampede that killed 1,426 people.
Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer were united in condemnation of Just Stop Oil after activists targeted Stonehenge with orange powder paint.

The UK prime minister described it as a disgraceful act of vandalism while the Labour leader branded the group pathetic.

Members tried to intervene, struggling with the campaigners  named by the group as Rajan Naidu, 73, and Niamh Lynch, 21  as they ran up to the ancient monument on Wednesday.

Video footage posted on social media showed two people wearing white shirts with the slogan Just Stop Oil, approaching the stone circle with canisters and spraying orange powder paint.

Mr Sunak said: This is a disgraceful act of vandalism to one of the UKs and the worlds oldest and most important monuments.

In a reference to green energy entrepreneur Dale Vince, Mr Sunak added: Just Stop Oil should be ashamed of their activists, and they and anyone associated with them, including a certain Labour Party donor, should issue a condemnation of this shameful act immediately.

Mr Vinces Ecotricity firm gave Labour 1.5m (1.7m) according to the Electoral Commission data for the first quarter of 2024.

The green energy industrialist also reportedly gave another 1m (1.1m) to the Labour party the day after the general election was called, taking his total donations to 5m (5.9m).

He has previously donated to Just Stop Oil, although last year he said he was diverting his funding to a campaign to encourage voter registration.

Mr Starmer said: The damage done to Stonehenge is outrageous. Just Stop Oil are pathetic.

Those responsible must face the full force of the law.

But Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho accused Labour of faux outrage at Just Stop Oil and claimed the Oppositions net zero policy had been dictated by fanatics in the environmental protest group.

Wiltshire Police said officers had attended the scene and arrested two people.

A spokesman for the force said: At around noon, we responded to a report that orange paint had been sprayed on some of the stones by two suspects.

Officers attended the scene and arrested two people on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument.

Our inquiries are ongoing, and we are working closely with English Heritage.

English Heritage said experts were assessing the extent of the damage on the stones.

A spokeswoman said: Orange powdered paint has been thrown at a number of the stones at Stonehenge.

Obviously, this is extremely upsetting and our curators are investigating the extent of the damage. Stonehenge remains open to the public.

In a statement, Just Stop Oil said its action was to demand that the incoming UK government should agree a plan with other governments to end the extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030.

People intervened as Just Stop Oil targeted the stones (Just Stop Oil/PA)

A spokesperson for the group said: The UKs government-in-waiting has committed to enacting Just Stop Oils original demand of no new oil and gas. However, we all know this is not enough.

Continuing to burn coal, oil and gas will result in the death of millions. We have to come together to defend humanity or we risk everything.

Thats why Just Stop Oil is demanding that our next government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.

The group said it used orange cornflour paint to spray onto the stones, which it claimed would soon wash away with the rain.

Responding to the groups statement, Ms Coutinho said: Labours faux outrage at the Stongehenge vandalism would carry a lot more weight if Just Stop Oil hadnt also thanked Labour for enacting their demands in their press release today.

We must not allow Britains energy policy to be dictated by fanatics.

Just Stop Oil protesters took action the day before the summer solstice is celebrated at Stonehenge (Just Stop Oil/PA)

The incident happened on Wednesday at about 12pm, the day before the summer solstice is celebrated at Stonehenge, which is at the heart of a World Heritage site.

Around 8,000 people gathered at Stonehenge to mark the longest day of the year in 2023, with similar numbers expected on Thursday.

The solstice will be celebrated from 7pm on Thursday until 8am on Friday.

In a statement released by Just Stop Oil, Miss Lynch, a student from Oxford, said the continued burning of fossil fuels was leading to death and suffering.

Either we end the fossil-fuel era, or the fossil-fuel era will end us. Just as 50 years ago, when the world used international treaties to defuse the threats posed by nuclear weapons, today the world needs a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty

Its time for us to think about what our civilisation will leave behind  what is our legacy? she said.

Standing inert for generations works well for stones  not climate policy.

Mr Naidu, from Birmingham, added: Either we end the fossil-fuel era, or the fossil-fuel era will end us.

Just as 50 years ago, when the world used international treaties to defuse the threats posed by nuclear weapons, today the world needs a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty to phase out fossil fuels and to support dependent economies, workers and communities to move away from oil, gas and coal.
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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.
Committee on Academic Freedom | Middle East Studies Association | 

Jeff Ettinger

Interim President

University of Minnesota

Dear President Ettinger and colleagues:

We write on behalf of the Middle East Studies Association of North America (MESA) and its Committee on Academic Freedom to express our grave concern about your decision to rescind the offer which the University of Minnesota (U of M) made to Dr. Raz Segal to assume the directorship of its Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies (CHGS). This action, the result of your capitulation to political pressure from groups based outside the university which had attacked Dr. Segal for his assessment of Israels war in Gaza, starkly contravenes your administrations avowed commitment to academic freedom and to respect for the integrity of the faculty hiring process.

MESA was founded in 1966 to promote scholarship and teaching on the Middle East and North Africa. The preeminent organization in the field, the Association publishes the prestigious International Journal of Middle East Studies and has nearly 2,800 members worldwide. MESA is committed to ensuring academic freedom and freedom of expression, both within the region and in connection with the study of the region in North America and outside of North America.

Dr. Segal, Associate Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Studies and Endowed Professor in the Study of Modern Genocide at Stockton University, is widely regarded as a leading scholar in the academic fields in which he works. After a thorough search conducted in full accord with U of M procedures and policies, he was deemed the most qualified candidate for the directorship of CHGS and offered the position. Two members of the CHGS board resigned in protest, citing an October 2023 article in which Dr. Segal had described Israels actions in Gaza as a textbook case of genocide. Organizations and media outlets based outside the university, including the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas, then launched a campaign to block Dr. Segals appointment.

Rather than defend academic freedom and the principle that faculty should make hiring decisions based exclusively on scholarly criteria, without interference by individuals or organizations pursuing their own political agenda, your administration first paused and then rescinded the offer to Dr. Segal. The video recording of President Ettingers 14 June 2024 report to the Board of Regents explaining his decision, available here (starting at 19:23), clearly indicates that the university surrendered to the campaign against Dr. Segal.

We note the statement issued by the U of M chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) on 12 June 2024 expressing alarm at the withdrawal of the offer to Dr. Segal and declaring that the central administration has rewarded the brinkmanship of two faculty members acting outside the norms of acceptable faculty conduct, overruled a comprehensive faculty-led process of evaluating candidates for this position, and violated established policy and precedent regarding collegiate hiring practices. The statement went on to characterize your action as an appalling violation of academic freedom and a stain on the Us record. If it goes uncorrected it will have a chilling effect on academic freedom at this institution, not only for faculty but also students and staff, by showing that our central administration will side with outside groups when they demand actions that violate academic freedom. We also call your attention to the open letter signed by nearly a thousand faculty at universities across the United States and beyond, which noted that by overruling the faculty experts who selected Dr. Segal, the University of Minnesotas administrators have effectively issued a vote of no confidence in its own faculty. This move endangers the Universitys reputation as an internationally-renowned research institution.

We must remind you of the statement on Academic Freedom in Times of War issued by the AAUP on 24 October 2023, which is directly relevant to the current circumstances:

It is in tumultuous times that colleges and universities stated commitments to protect academic freedom are most put to the test. As the Israel-Hamas war rages and campus protests proliferate, institutional authorities must refrain from sanctioning faculty members for expressing politically controversial views and should instead defend their right, under principles of academic freedom, to do so.

We therefore call on you to immediately reinstate the offer made to Dr. Segal and apologize to him for surrendering to the smear campaign against him. We further urge you to publicly and forcefully reaffirm your commitment to the principles of academic freedom and to the integrity and independence of your institutions faculty hiring process.

We look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Asl U. Bali

MESA President

Professor, Yale Law School

Laurie Brand

Chair, Committee on Academic Freedom

Professor Emerita, University of Southern California
Toronto  TheNewswire - June 18, 2024 - AbraSilver Resource Corp. (TSX.V:ABRA); (OTCQX: ABBRF) ("AbraSilver" or the Company) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeremy Weyland as Senior Vice President, Projects and Development, effective September 3, 2024. Mr. Weyland is an international mining executive with 17 years of industry experience in capital project planning and execution, including senior leadership roles at Lundin Mining Corp. and Kinross Gold Corp.

Mr. Weyland will lead the Companys various upcoming technical studies and engineering development efforts, as well as technical reviews of any corporate development opportunities. This strategic addition reflects AbraSilvers commitment to further enhancing its technical and operational capabilities and progressing its flagship Diablillos silver-gold project, located in Salta, Argentina, towards a construction decision.

Highlights

Mr. Weyland is fluent in Spanish and has extensive experience in high Andean mining projects in both Chiles Maricunga belt and Argentinas Vicuna district.

At Lundin Mining, Mr. Weyland led key project studies from the pre-conceptual phase through feasibility and engineering. He implemented the companys capital allocation program and project delivery standards. Most recently, Mr. Weyland held a key leadership role in technical services and was responsible for technical due diligence of several acquisitions in Argentina and Chile, as well as post-acquisition integration of the Chapada mine in Brazil.

During his ten years at Kinross Gold Corp., Mr. Weyland implemented the companys risk management program before joining its project development services group to implement and oversee the stage gate review for key projects. Mr. Weyland relocated to Chile and held various roles in the South American regional operations team with secondments to implement projects at the La Coipa and Maricunga gold mines.

Mr. Weyland is a Professional Engineer with a BSc. In Applied Science (Mechanical Engineering) from Queens University, and an MBA from the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto.

John Miniotis, President and CEO of AbraSilver, commented, We are delighted to welcome Jeremy to the AbraSilver management team. This appointment is very timely and strategically important for our Company as we continue to rapidly progress Diablillos towards the next phases of project development and execution. Jeremys successful track record for managing high-profile project studies across Latin America will greatly assist the Company in achieving our growth objectives going forward.

Incentive Stock Options

The Company announces that pursuant to the Companys Share Compensation Plan and regulatory approval, an aggregate of 400,000 incentive stock options (the Options), exercisable at a price of $2.19 per share for a period of five years, have been granted to Mr. Weyland. The Options vest in 25% instalments every 6 months, starting from the date of the grant.

AbraSilver Engages ICP Securities Inc. for Automated Market Making Services

The Company is also pleased to announce that it has engaged the services of ICP Securities Inc. ("ICP") to provide automated market making services effective July 1, 2024, including use of its proprietary algorithm, ICP Premium, in compliance with the policies and guidelines of the TSX Venture Exchange and other applicable legislation. ICP will receive a fee of C$7,500 plus applicable taxes per month, payable monthly in advance. The agreement between the Company and ICP is for an Initial Term of three (3) months and shall be automatically renewed for subsequent one (1) month terms (each month called an "Additional Term") unless either party provides at least thirty (30) days written notice prior to the end of the Initial Term or an Additional Term, as applicable. There are no performance factors contained in the agreement and no stock options or other compensation are being granted in connection with the engagement. ICP and its clients may acquire an interest in the securities of the Company in the future.

ICP is an arm's length party to the Company. ICP's market making activity will be primarily to correct temporary imbalances in the supply and demand of the Company's shares. ICP will be responsible for the costs it incurs in buying and selling the Company's shares, and no third party will be providing funds or securities for the market making activities.

ICP Securities Inc.

ICP Securities Inc. (ICP) is a Toronto based CIRO dealer-member that specializes in automated market making and liquidity provision, as well as having a proprietary market making algorithm, ICP Premium, that enhances liquidity and quote health. Established in 2023, with a focus on market structure, execution, and trading, ICP has leveraged its own proprietary technology to deliver high quality liquidity provision and execution services to a broad array of public issuers and institutional investors.

About AbraSilver

AbraSilver is an advanced-stage exploration company focused on rapidly advancing its 100%-owned Diablillos silver-gold project in the mining-friendly Salta province of Argentina. The current Proven and Probable Mineral Reserve estimate for Diablillos, from a recently completed Pre-Feasibility Study, consists of 42.3 Mt grading 91 g/t Ag and 0.81 g/t Au, containing approximately 124 Moz silver and 1.1 Moz gold, with significant further exploration upside potential. In addition, the Company has entered into an earn-in option and joint venture agreement with Teck on the La Coipita project, located in the San Juan province of Argentina. AbraSilver is listed on the TSX-V under the symbol ABRA and in the U.S. on the OTCQX under the symbol ABBRF.

John Miniotis, President and CEO

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: +1 416-306-8334

Cautionary Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements that address future plans, activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur are forward-looking information. 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. When considering this forward-looking information, readers should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements in the Companys disclosure documents filed with the applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The risk factors and other factors noted in the disclosure documents could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in any forward-looking information. 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.

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.
VANCOUVER, BC, June 19, 2024 /CNW/ - Vizsla Copper Corp. (TSXV: VCU) (OTCQB: VCUFF) ("Vizsla Copper" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the closing of its previously announced marketed best efforts brokered private placement (the "Offering") for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately C$5,463,000. Under the Offering, the Company sold 9,379,088 units of the Company (the "Units") at a price of C$0.11 per Unit and 36,923,800 flow-through units of the Company (the "FT Units", and together with the Units, the "Offered Units") at a price of C$0.12 per FT Unit.

Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (each, a "Unit Share") and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each FT Unit consists of one common share of the Company to be issued as a "flow-through share" within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a "FT Share") and one half of one Warrant. Each whole Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company (each, a "Warrant Share") at a price of $0.16 at any time on or before June 19, 2026.

Chairman and CEO Craig Parry commented "The upsizing and closing of this financing demonstrate the strong support for what we are building at Vizsla Copper. We've recently seen the copper price rise to an all-time high, reflecting the tightness of the copper market. Economists forecast that copper will be in increasingly short supply for years to come, and higher copper prices will ensue. In this environment, copper projects in safe, stable jurisdictions like ours in British Columbia will become more prized and valuable over coming years. We will update the market in the near future on our upcoming fully funded drill program at the highly prospective Woodjam Copper-Gold Project in central British Columbia."

The Offering was conducted by Red Cloud Securities Inc. (the "Lead Agent"), acting as lead agent and sole bookrunner, and Agentis Capital Markets Limited Partnership (collectively, the "Agents"). In connection with the Offering, the Company paid to the Agents a cash commission of C$285,729.35 and issued 2,404,580 broker warrants (the "Broker Warrants"). Each Broker Warrant is exercisable into one common share of the Company at a price of $0.11 per share at any time on or before June 19, 2026.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of Units for working capital and general corporate purposes. The gross proceeds from the sale of the FT Units will be used by the Company to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that will qualify as "flow-through mining expenditures" as such terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Qualifying Expenditures") related to the Company's projects in British Columbia, Canada. All Qualifying Expenditures will be renounced in favour of the subscribers of the FT Units effective December 31, 2024.

The Offered Securities are subject to a four-month and one day hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws. Closing of the Offering is subject to final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSX-V").

Directors and officers of the Company subscribed for an aggregate of 1,563,636 Units and 3,241,667 FT Units for gross proceeds of $561,000 under the Offering. Participation by insiders of the Company in the Offering constitutes a related-party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The issuance of securities is exempt from the formal valuation requirements of Section 5.4 of MI 61-101 pursuant to Subsection 5.5(b) of MI 61-101 as the common shares of the Company are listed on the TSX-V. The issuance of securities is also exempt from the minority approval requirements of Section 5.6 of MI 61-101 pursuant to Subsection 5.7(1)(b) of MI 61-101 as the fair market value was less than $2,500,000.

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 Vizsla Copper

Vizsla Copper is a Cu-Au-Mo focused mineral exploration and development company headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. The Company is primarily focused on its flagship Woodjam project, located within the prolific Quesnel Terrane, 55 kilometers east of the community of Williams Lake, British Columbia. It has three additional copper exploration properties: Copperview, Redgold and Carruthers Pass, all well situated amongst significant infrastructure in British Columbia. Following closing of the Arrangement, Vizsla Copper will control a fifth project, the Poplar Project. The Company's growth strategy is focused on the exploration and development of its copper properties within its portfolio in addition to value accretive acquisitions. Vizsla Copper's vision is to be a responsible copper explorer and developer in the stable mining jurisdiction of British Columbia, Canada and it is committed to socially responsible exploration and development, working safely, ethically and with integrity.

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

The information contained herein 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. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including, without limitation, planned exploration activities. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements relating to: obtaining the required regulatory approvals; the intended use of proceeds of the Offering; the incurrence of Qualifying Expenditures and the renouncement of such expenditures; exploration and development of the Company's properties; and the Company's growth and business strategies.

Such forward-looking information and statements are based on numerous assumptions, including among others, that the results of planned exploration activities are as anticipated, the anticipated cost of planned exploration activities, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms, that third party contractors, equipment and supplies and governmental and other approvals required to conduct the Company's planned exploration activities will be available on reasonable terms and in a timely manner. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information or making forward-looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate.

Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual events or results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future events or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or statements, including, among others: negative operating cash flow and dependence on third party financing, uncertainty of additional financing, no known mineral reserves or resources, the limited operating history of the Company, the influence of a large shareholder, aboriginal title and consultation issues, reliance on key management and other personnel, actual results of exploration activities being different than anticipated, changes in exploration programs based upon results, availability of third party contractors, availability of equipment and supplies, failure of equipment to operate as anticipated; accidents, effects of weather and other natural phenomena and other risks associated with the mineral exploration industry, environmental risks, changes in laws and regulations, community relations and delays in obtaining governmental or other approvals.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or implied by forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws.
China advances its law-based cyberspace governance

Xinhua) 08:10, June 19, 2024

A woman promotes products via livestreaming at the Silk Road E-commerce Pavilion during the second Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Nov. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Lingyi)

BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) -- This year marks the 30th anniversary of China achieving full functional access to the internet. Since 1994, the country has made significant progress in promoting law-based governance in cyberspace.

To date, China has promulgated over 150 pieces of legislation in the field of cyberspace governance, Wang Song, deputy director of the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), told a press conference on Tuesday.

To facilitate digital economic development, China has formulated and implemented basic laws for the field, including the E-Commerce Law. Efforts have also been made to expedite legislation on specific areas such as livestreaming, online payments and online recruitment.

As of December 2023, China had over 1.09 billion internet users, statistics from the China Internet Network Information Center showed.

In May 2024, a set of interim regulations on countering unfair competition in cyberspace was promulgated, noted Peng Xinmin, an official of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR).

China has devised regulations to protect the legitimate rights and interests of minors in cyberspace, including regulations on the protection of the personal information of children online, according to CAC official Li Changxi.

In the area of law enforcement, the CAC has focused on tackling improper or illegal online behaviors, including the spread of false information and algorithm abuse. Over 40 special operations have been launched over the past years, resulting in the removal of over 20 billion pieces of illegal information, Li said.

Efforts have also been made to push online platforms to fulfill their primary responsibilities and establish sound complaint and reporting mechanisms, thereby protecting the legitimate rights and interests of their users.

China's market regulation authorities have strengthened their supervision of online advertising, investigating and handling a total of 22,500 cases of false or illegal online advertising in 2023.

The SAMR has also established an online mechanism for the resolution of consumer disputes. The national 12315 consumer dispute resolution platform has directly resolved 5.835 million consumer disputes to date, according to Peng.

Zhou Jiahai, director of the Research Office of the Supreme People's Court, said that Chinese courts at various levels have made efforts to strengthen the judicial protection of intellectual property rights to promote the application of scientific and technological innovations.

Through their handling of new case types involving such issues as data-driven price discrimination, these courts have clarified the adjudication rules for new internet-related areas of the law.

Courts at all levels have been exploring and promoting the integration of judicial work and new technologies, including artificial intelligence and blockchain.

Digital courts are also being built to improve the efficiency and quality of judicial work. In 2023, more than 45 million cases were accepted by courts nationwide, with 30 percent of those cases filed online and more than half of all related legal documents served online, Zhou said.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
TORONTO, June 19, 2024 /CNW/ - Collective Mining Ltd. (TSX: CNL) (OTCQX: CNLMF) (FSE: GG1) ("Collective" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that a comprehensive airborne geophysical survey covering the Company's Guayabales Project in Caldas, Colombia will commence in the coming days. The Company is fully funded for its 2024 budget with US$23.6 million in its treasury as of May 16, 2024.

Additionally, a sixth drill rig is being mobilized to the Guayabales Project as part of its fully funded 40,000 metres drill program for 2024. Drill rigs are currently operating at the Apollo, Box, Olympus and Trap targets with the sixth rig to commence drilling for the first time at the grassroot generated X target located in the southern portion of the project area. Drill cores from multiple holes are currently being assayed at ALS Laboratory in Lima, Peru with results expected in short order.

Ari Sussman, Executive Chairman commented: "The enormous potential of our Guayabales Project has already been proven based on the number of discoveries that we have made by drilling within the confines of areas defined by limited outcrop exposure. Since over 90% of the project remains under cover, commissioning an airborne VTEM and ZTEM survey makes a lot of sense to assist us in outlining new targets in areas with no outcrop. In particular, we are excited to use the results to refine planned future drilling at the Plutus target given its sheer scale and lack of outcropping rock to sample."

Highlights (see Figure 1)

The airborne geophysical program will be undertaken by Geotech Ltd. and will cover a total area of 74 km2 with 1,449 flight line kilometres (100 metre line spacing) and includes helicopter borne Versatile Time-domain Electromagnetic (VTEM) and Z-Axis Tipper Electromagnetic system (ZTEM) surveys. The primary objective of the program is to detect conductive sulphide bearing ore bodies, similar to the Apollo system, at depths beginning directly below the surficial cover to up to 2,000 metres depth.

The Company's exploration team has recently completed petrophysical measurements on 13 kilometres of drill core from the Apollo system, which highlights a strong and distinctive conductivity signature related to the sulphide minerals and associated alteration. This work endorses the effectiveness and application of the airborne survey methodologies selected.

The Guayabales project area has very limited outcrop exposure (<10%) due to extensive cover material caused by historic landslides and surficial ash deposits and exploration drilling to date has been focused exclusively on limited areas with good soil and rock assays. The airborne survey will enable our exploration team to develop drill targets in these covered areas, including the large Plutus target where reconnaissance drilling in 2023 intercepted 136.45 metres @ 1.31 g/t AuEq (Hole #PNC-2, see press release dated October 11, 2023 ).

The airborne surveys will be completed in July 2024 with processing of data and interpretation expected before the end of Q3, 2024. Drilling on new targets generated from the survey could commence as early as Q4, 2024.

Figure 1: Plan View of the Guayabales Project With ZTEM-VTEM Geophysical Survey Extension Announced in This Release

About Collective Mining Ltd.

To see our latest corporate presentation and related information, please visit www.collectivemining.com

Founded by the team that developed and sold Continental Gold Inc. to Zijin Mining for approximately $2 billion in enterprise value, Collective is a copper, silver, gold and tungsten exploration company with projects in Caldas, Colombia. The Company has options to acquire 100% interests in two projects located directly within an established mining camp with ten fully permitted and operating mines.

The Company's flagship project, Guayabales, is anchored by the Apollo system, which hosts the large-scale, bulk-tonnage and high-grade copper-silver-gold-tungsten Apollo porphyry system. The Company's 2024 objective is to expand the Apollo system, prove that the recent discoveries at the Olympus and Trap targets evolve into large scale systems and make a new discovery at either the Box, Tower or X targets.

Management, insiders, a strategic investor and close family and friends own nearly 50% of the outstanding shares of the Company and as a result, are fully aligned with shareholders. The Company is listed on the TSX under the trading symbol "CNL", on the OTCQX under the trading symbol "CNLMF" and on the FSE under the trading symbol "GG1".

Qualified Person (QP) and NI43-101 Disclosure

David J Reading is the designated Qualified Person for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and verified that the technical information contained herein is accurate and approves of the written disclosure of same. Mr. Reading has an MSc in Economic Geology and is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and of the Society of Economic Geology (SEG).

Technical Information

ZTipper Axis Electromagnetic (ZTEM), exclusive to Geotech Ltd. and a first in the geophysical business, is an airborne electromagnetic survey system which detects anomalies in the earth's natural magnetic field, whereas the now well-known VTEM (Versatile Time-domain Electromagnetic) system uses electromagnetic signals to locate conductive anomalies as well as mapping lateral and vertical variation in resistivity. These disruptions are caused by zones of rock that conduct or resist electrical current more than the surrounding rock, like ore deposits.

Information Contact:

Follow Executive Chairman Ari Sussman (@Ariski73) on X

Follow Collective Mining (@CollectiveMini1) on X, (Collective Mining) on LinkedIn, and (@collectivemining) on Instagram

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussion with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often, but not always using phrases 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) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information. In this news release, forward-looking information relate, among other things, to: anticipated advancement of mineral properties or programs; future operations; future recovery metal recovery rates; future growth potential of Collective; and future development plans.

These forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding the direction of our business. Management believes that these assumptions are reasonable. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others: risks related to the speculative nature of the Company's business; the Company's formative stage of development; the Company's financial position; possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery rates; actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of future economic evaluations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, precious and base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets; change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formation pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the annual information form of the Company dated April 7, 2022. Forward-looking information contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or results, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
Her voice shaking with emotion, Meirav Leshem Gonen described to the UN Human Rights Council Wednesday the agony of listening over the phone as Hamas militants seized her daughter on October 7.

Her daughter, 23-year-old Romi Gonen, "was terrified, and I felt utterly helpless as I listened to her suffering", she said.

"Please help me hug my daughter again."

Her appeal came as the top UN rights body in Geneva convened to debate a scathing report holding Israel responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity in its offensive in Gaza, launched in response to the October attack.

The report by the independent Commission of Inquiry noted a "widespread or systematic attack directed against the civilian population in Gaza".

It also found that Palestinian militants had committed war crimes, including in connection with Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack and the seizing of hostages.

It highlighted in particular the plight of women caught up in the attack, decrying that "women and women's bodies were used as victory trophies by male perpetrators".

Israel has been vehemently critical of the report, and Leshem Gonen herself charged that it "trivialises the severity of sexual violence experienced by women in captivity.

"I stand before you today not just as a mother, but also as a voice for women who have endured unimaginable suffering, whose pain is not acknowledged," she said.

"When women's bodies are used as political tools, when their dignity is set aside because they are not on the 'right side', it is a badge of shame for us all."

Leshem Gonen described the agony that she and other hostages' families feel.

Her daughter was fleeing by car from the Supernova music festival on October 7 when it was ambushed by Hamas fighters.

During the attack she phoned her mother, who tried to comfort her above the din of explosions.

"She was brutally dragged by her long, beautiful hair from the car, along the road," Leshem Gonen said, describing "hearing her helplessness and frustration without being able to help my baby".

"That was 257 days ago."

"We owe all hostages still held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza to do all in our power to release them immediately," she said.

"I owe it to Romi, and so does the international community."

Hamas's attack resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

The militants also seized 251 hostages. Of these, 116 remain in Gaza, although the army says 41 are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 37,396 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.
Her voice shaking with emotion, Meirav Leshem Gonen described to the UN Human Rights Council on Wednesday the agony of listening over the phone as Hamas militants seized her daughter on October 7.

Her daughter, 23-year-old Romi Gonen, "was terrified, and I felt utterly helpless as I listened to her suffering", she said.

"Please help me hug my daughter again."

Her appeal came as the top UN rights body in Geneva convened to debate a scathing report that held Israel responsible for crimes against humanity in its offensive in Gaza, launched in response to the October attack.

The independent Commission of Inquiry said there was a "widespread or systematic attack directed against the civilian population in Gaza".

It also found that Palestinian militants had committed war crimes, including in connection with Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack and the seizing of hostages.

The report highlighted in particular sexualised violence, as "women and women's bodies were used as victory trophies by male perpetrators".

"The enormity of this tragedy overwhelms us, and we are deeply disturbed by the immense human suffering," commission chair Navi Pillay told the council.

- 'Angry' -

Israel has slammed the report and has long been vehemently critical of the commission, whose mandate began several years before the October 7 attack.

It has consistently refused to interact with the commission, but on Wednesday the country offered its speaking slot to Leshem Gonen, something commissioner Chris Sidoti hailed as "a note of hope".

"That was the first time we had an opportunity to talk and hear directly face to face from one of the family members of hostages," he told reporters.

Leshem Gonen meanwhile did not withhold her disdain of the commission's work.

"I was angry," she told AFP after the session, standing in the square in front of the UN headquarters amid a sea of more than 400 portraits of those killed and taken hostage in Hamas's attack.

"They are talking only on one side."

Before the council, she charged that the report "trivialises the severity of sexual violence experienced by women in captivity".

She described the agony she felt on October 7 as she listened to her daughter being taken, "hearing her helplessness and frustration without being able to help my baby".

"That was 257 days ago."

"We owe all hostages still held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza to do all in our power to release them immediately," she said.

After her testimony, Palestinian ambassador Ibrahim Mohammad Khraishi told the council it would be "difficult to bring in witnesses of over 150 families that were totally decimated in Gaza".

He also maintained that the report showed "there is no evidence of rape" during Hamas's October 7 attack.

- 'Deeply traumatic' -

Pillay told reporters afterward that both speakers had "clearly not looked at the details" of the report, rejecting the "criticism that we had not investigated sexual violence sufficiently".

She also rejected that the commission had not focused enough on the hostages, saying Israeli "obstruction" had blocked it from Israel or Gaza and from accessing the released hostages.

"We have been obstructed in our capacity to collect evidence," she said.

Hamas's attack resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

The militants also seized 251 hostages. Of these, 116 remain in Gaza, though the army says 41 are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 37,396 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.

"Our report barely scratches the surface," Sidoti acknowledged, saying he understood "how deeply traumatic the events on and since October 7 have been for Jewish people... and for Palestinian people".

Pillay, a former UN rights chief and former International Criminal Court judge, said her experience from the end of apartheid in her native South Africa gave her "hope" that a way out of the entrenched Middle East conflict could be found.

Asked about the root causes of the conflict raging in Gaza, the investigators said the October 7 attack "did not occur in a vacuum", highlighting the decades-long Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories.

"One person's freedom fighter could be another terrorist," Pillay said, noting that even Nelson Mandela "was classified as a terrorist... until he was freed".
Actress Kim Ji Won has revealed her pick for the most heart-fluttering scene in the record-breaking K-drama "Queen of Tears."

In a recent interview with Vogue Korea, Kim Ji Won discussed her experience filming the drama and her character's journey.

When asked about a scene that would make her heart flutter as a viewer, she pinpointed the reunion scene between her character Hong Hae-in and Baek Hyun-woo (played by Kim Soo Hyun) at Sanssouci Palace in Germany.

READ MORE: Kim Ji Won Chooses THIS Scene With Kim Soo Hyun As Her Favorite in 'Queen of Tears': 'It's The Most...'

"It's a scene where the couple, who had grown apart, realize that they still miss and think about each other," -Kim Ji Won

She described the scene where Hyun-woo slowly approaches Hae-in, the camera capturing their emotions as they reunite, as the turning point in their relationship.

"Hyun-woo slowly ascends the stairs, and the camera captures his face, then shows Hae-in watching him, and they gradually get closer. It's the first time their relationship changes, so I think that's when I would probably feel my heart flutter the most." -Kim Ji Won

"Queen of Tears," the romantic-comedy that concluded in April, became tvN's most-watched drama ever, surpassing the previous record held by "Crash Landing on You."

The drama's international popularity has also garnered significant attention.

KdramaStars owns this article.

Written by Joan Cabigas.
Kang Ha Ri (Song Seung Heon) recruited Eun Ha (Nana), Jonathan (Kim Young Cheol), and more to help his team rob Baek Hyun Mi (Ryu Hwa Young) in "The Player 2: Master of Swindlers" Episode 5.

'The Player 2: Master of Swindlers' Episode 5: Kang Ha Ri Begins Operation to Set Trap to Baek Hyun Mi

In his episode, retribution was carried out against Director Baek Hyun Mi (Ryu Hwa Young), the troubleshooter of Korea's VVIPs, who led Min Won Jun (Han Seo Won) to probation for causing an innocent death due to drunk driving. She was using the paintings in her gallery to commit bribery and illegal transactions.

Accordingly, Kang Ha Ri disguised as author Damian Lee, a graduate of the British Royal Academy and a rising star attracted Baek Hyun Mi's attention.

In addition, they recruited famous art influencer Eun Ha (Nana) and Jonathan (Kim Young Chu), a real British Royal Academy alumni, as allies, and Cha Je Yi (Jang Gyu Ri) recruited Jeon Jeong Ho (Jeon Hyun Moo).

He prepared to trap Hyun Mi by visiting her and requesting a piece of art for a large sum of money.

However, she was suspicious of Damian Lee, and called prosecutor Kwak Do Soo (Ha Do Kwon) and tried to expose Lee's fraudulent activities. But all of this was Kang Ha Ri's plan.

Jeong Ho, who joined forces with the players, deliberately revealed that Damian Lee was a fraudster and provoked Baek Hyun Mi into confessing that she received the money from the WQ Group chairman in exchange for Min Won Jun's case and recorded the incident.

The Players Successfully Arrest Baek Hyun Mi, Min Won Jun

In addition, Cha Je Yi, who infiltrated Hyun Mi's storage room while hiding in Damian Lee's new Trojan Horse produced by Jeong Ho, replaced all the works stored there with copies of paintings that Hyun Mi sold while looking after the conglomerates, and even inserted a bribe ledger.

Later on, Baek Hyun Mi's actions were exposed, and was arrested in the spectacular performance of punishment prepared by the criminals.

As a result, the drunk hit-and-run she committed was exposed in public and Min Won Jun, who was trying to flee abroad, was also arrested, the players' operation ended successfully.

However, the players did not stop there and visited Lee Sang Wook's parents, who unfairly lost their son's life due to the accident, and donated 200 million won in the name of the scholarship foundation.

Meanwhile, Kang Ha Ri began to have doubts about President Choi Sang Ho. The players found out that Sang Ho was involved in Jung So Min's past lover, and fell into agony, suspecting his connection to their final target, Jeffrey Jeong.

What can you say about "The Player 2: Master of Swindlers" episode 5? 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.
In a sizzling turn of events, Lee Je Hoon, celebrated South Korean actor renowned for his stellar performances, has sparked a wildfire on social media with his latest photoshoot for ELLE Korea.

The images, released just days ago, showcase Lee Je Hoon in a whole new light, flaunting a jaw-dropping physique that has fans and admirers alike swooning.

SOURCE

Known for his exceptional acting prowess, Lee Je Hoon has captivated hearts once again, this time not just with his talent but also with his undeniable charm and physical allure.

The photoshoot, a collaboration with his co-star Koo Kyo Hwan, who joins him in the highly-anticipated film Escape, has set tongues wagging and expectations soaring.

lee jehoon and koo kyohwan for elle korea 



YALL OMG THEY'RE SO HOTTT pic.twitter.com/tASfv3iIQj   (@simpforjehoon) June 19, 2024

Escape, slated for release on July 3, features Lee Je Hoon as Im Kyu Nam, a North Korean soldier yearning for a fresh start in South Korea.

Koo Kyo Hwan portrays Ri Hyun Sang, the security officer tasked with preventing Im Kyu Nam's daring escape through the DMZ.

upcoming movie #Escape starring lee jehoon and koo kyohwan releases 2nd poster!



movie will be released in korea on july 3! pic.twitter.com/M5odE6IdVg   (@simpforjehoon) June 4, 2024

READ MORE: Lee Je Hoon's 'Escape' Reveals Special Cameo of THIS K-Drama Heartthrob

The chemistry between the two on-screen rivals is palpable in the photoshoot, teasing fans with a glimpse into their intense dynamic.

best side profile goes to lee jehoon and koo kyohwan pic.twitter.com/dwoyhL99x8   (@simpforjehoon) June 19, 2024

Among the series of captivating shots, one in particular has seized the spotlight: an image revealing Lee Je Hoon's impeccably sculpted abs.

This single shot has gone viral, propelling the actor to the top of trending lists across Korean and international social media platforms.

Fans have showered the image with adoration, propelling articles discussing it to the top ranks of NAVER's most-read list.

it's lee jehoon's pose



Men Noblesse 2023 Elle Korea 2024 pic.twitter.com/obkSMPtQMT   (@dejehoon) June 19, 2024

With Escape just around the corner, anticipation for Lee Je Hoon and Koo Kyo Hwan's performances is at an all-time high.

The photoshoot not only highlights their on-screen chemistry but also amplifies the excitement surrounding their roles in the upcoming film.

Maaaaaan the cinematography for Lee Jong-pil's upcoming thriller "Escape" (2024) looks absolutely mesmerizing yo  pic.twitter.com/a5qGnT4rMz  Derek Brocks (@DerekBrocks) June 18, 2024

As the countdown to the release date begins, audiences worldwide eagerly await to witness Lee Je Hoon's transformation from a soldier with dreams to a social media sensation.

ALSO READ : Lee Je Hoon Reveals Going Beyond His Physical Limits for 'Escape'

KdramaStarz owns this article.

Written by Joan Cabigas.
Fans of the hit tvN drama "Lovely Runner" are in for a treat! Actor Heo Hyung-kyu recently shared photos on his social media (formerly Twitter) showcasing the cast's relaxing getaway in Phuket, Thailand.

The heartwarming pictures feature Kim Hye-yoon, the drama's leading actress, alongside Heo Hyung-kyu himself.

One photo shows them smiling brightly while sitting at an outdoor restaurant by the beach, another a playful selfie with co-star Song Geon-hee.

The cast's vacation comes after the successful conclusion of "Lovely Runner" in May.

The drama garnered immense popularity, leading to a well-deserved reward trip for the cast and crew.

However, fans may be disappointed to learn that lead actor Byun Woo-seok couldn't join the fun due to scheduling conflicts.

Heo Hyung-kyu's playful caption referencing a past on-screen disagreement with Kim Hye-yoon's character adds a lighthearted touch to the photos.

"Have you relieved your anger? We're on good terms again now, right?" -Heo Hyung-kyu

Fans have flooded the comments section with messages of enthusiasm and well wishes for the cast.

"Lovely Runner" tells the story of [insert a brief description of the drama's plot, without spoilers].

The drama's success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire cast and crew.

These behind-the-scenes glimpses into their Phuket vacation offer a delightful look at the camaraderie they share.

ALSO READ: Lee Seung Hyub Update 2024: 'Lovely Runner' Star To Join Jung So Min in New Romance Drama

KdramaStars owns this article.

Written by Cassidy Jones.
Hyun Bin's movie "Harbin" is gearing up for a world premiere after it was invited to the 49th Toronto International Film Festival.

The annual event honors the best films around the world and showcases them in one festival.

Representing South Korea on the international stage, the historical film will have its first release at the prestigious film festival in Canada.

Per reports, the news was confirmed by the movie's distributor, CJ ENM, announcing that "Harbin" has been invited to the Gala Presentations section of the 49th Toronto International Film Festival, which will run from September 5 to 15, 2024.

READ MORE : Hyun Bin, Son Ye Jin Reportedly Selling Their Marital Home

As for the movie's local release, "Harbin" will officially premiere in theaters in the second half of the year.

Meet the Cast of 'Harbin'

Returning to the big screen after "Two Point Men," Hyun Bin headlines the spy action historical movie "Harbin."

Joining him is a roster of talented stars, which includes Park Jung Min, Jeon Yeo Bin, and Jo Woo Jin as lead stars.

In addition to this, the supporting cast also boasts talented actors like Park Hoon and Yoo Jae Myung, with guest appearances from Jung Woo Sung and Lee Dong Wook.

Set in the early 1900s in Harbin, China, the movie depicts the story of Korean independence activists who risk their lives to claim their homeland.

In "Harbin," Hyun Bin takes on the character of the Korean Army's Lieutenant General Ahn Jung Geun, whose mission is to rediscover their lost nation. Working alongside him is Kim Sang Hyun, played by Jo Woo Jin.

Meanwhile, Park Jung Min plays Woo Deok Soon, an independent fighter who prioritizes his country rather than himself.

Adding to the list is Jeon Yeo Bin, who is best known for her character in "Vincenzo," who portrays Madame Gong, who is a member of the Independence Army.

Lastly, veteran actor Yoo Jae Myung takes on the character of Choi Jae Hyung, who is the assistant of Ahn Jung Geun, while Park Hoon joins as Mori Datsuo from the Japanese Empire.

Meanwhile, "Harbin" is directed by Woo Min Ho of "The Inside Men" and "The Drug King" and will be produced by Hive Media Corp., who worked with "Deliver Us From Evil."

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Flores






Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - A 15-year-old girl from Mississippi is being held in an adult detention facility for attempting to murder her mother.

Lexi Jade Brown attacked her mother while she was asleep in what appears to be a crime influenced by occult beliefs.

The incident took place in the early hours of June 14 at a house on Dee Avenue in rural Gulfport, near a large wooded area.

The Gulfport Police Department announced that Brown faces one count each of attempted murder and first-degree arson.

Officers responded to a call about a stabbing at 2:33 a.m. and found the victim, Brown's mother, with multiple stab wounds.





According to the police, the mother reported she was asleep when she was attacked by her daughter. After fending off the assault, the mother said her daughter attempted to set the house on fire.

The victim was taken to a nearby hospital, and her current condition has not been disclosed.

Police reported that Brown admitted to planning the attack for some time, referring to her mother as a weird b**ch and claiming she had been "suppressing the black in her."

The investigation continues, and Brown is being held at the Harrison County Adult Detention Center with a bond set at $1.25 million by District 5 Justice Court Judge Nick Patano.




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Huruma OCS Robert Mugo is among the rogue police officers who harassed peaceful protesters during the finance bill demos that rocked the city on Tuesday.

The rogue officer was caught on camera back tackling a young lady before walking away.

The lady was unarmed and was not engaging in violence.

She was just exercising her democratic rights that are enshrined in the Constitution.

She had a panic attack and collapsed, prompting other protesters to come to her rescue.

The shameless police officer was heard saying Acha akufie hapo as he walked away smiling despite his brutal actions.

Kenyans on X have condemned the rogue police officer and shared his phone number in public.





Watch the video.

Buana hebu let's identify this Rogue cop... Alipiga back tackle huyu dem mbaya... I hope she doesn't have a daughter! https://t.co/aQxeTbG3GO pic.twitter.com/vMPHhpWrRO  Loyalist (@Kwanza254) June 19, 2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has visited Chief Inspector David Maina who was injured during Tuesday's Occupy Parliament protests.

Inspector Maina lost his fingers after a teargas canister exploded in his hands during the peaceful demonstrations that were led by Gen-Z and Millenials.

Babu paid him a visit at the Nairobi West Hospital, where he is recuperating.

"While CI Maina suffered terrible injuries, we are happy with the good work that the doctors and nurses of the Nairobi West Hospital are doing to ensure he recovers," he said.

The Embakasi East MP further said that it was unfortunate that anyone should suffer injuries when Kenyans are exercising their democratic rights.

He urged police officers not to allow themselves to be used to suppress the freedom of Kenyans.

"It is unfortunate that anyone should suffer injuries in the exercise of citizens democratic rights.

"To our police brothers and sisters, these young people are fighting for you as well; do not accept to be used to stifle freedom in our beloved Kenya.

"This country belongs to all of us and we have no other so we must get it right."

The Kenyan DAILY POST








Wednesday, June 19,2024 - Award-winning journalist Boniface Mwangi has revealed why former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was absent during Tuesday's demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2024.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday, Mwangi, the organizer of the Occupy Parliament movement, explained that Raila Odinga was absent due to his advanced age and because he is contesting for the African Union chairperson position.

Raila is unemployed, is looking for a job at the AU so he is busy canvassing to get the seat.

"Raila is also old. He has done this for over 40 years.

"We should be ashamed of ourselves for demanding more from Raila. He has given his best, Mwangi stated.

Mwangi further said it is the civic duty of all citizens to hold their leaders accountable.

If the Opposition has let us down, it is because they have no leader, he stated.

Last year around the same time, Raila Odinga called deadly anti-government protests over soaring cost of living, tax hikes, and alleged malpractice in the 2022 presidential election.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - A senior police officer lost his palms after a teargas canister exploded in his hands during the Tuesday demos in Nairobi.

Chief Inspector David Maina was among Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) officers who were deployed in Nairobis Central Business District (CBD) to quell demonstrations that were against Finance Bill 2024.

However, during a faceoff with the demonstrators Inspector Maina blew his hands off with a teargas canister.

He is currently admitted to Nairobi West Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment after losing his hands.

His colleague who sought anonymity said Maina had detonated a canister but delayed releasing it.

The violent emission detached his palms from the wrists at the scene.

"As a result, his two hands were severely injured from the wrist losing both forearms," read the police report in part.

Police Constable Mildred Amoit, who was near the injured officer, sustained a minor injury on her chest.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has warned President William Ruto and the entire Kenya Kwanza to prepare to go home if they dont deliver what they promised Kenyans.

This comes against the backdrop of protests against the Finance Bill 2024, which Kenyans have flatly rejected.

Speaking during the Kenya Kwanza Parliamentary Group meeting at State House Nairobi yesterday, Mbarire criticized Rutos government for giving Kenyans a raw deal, noting that the Kenya Kwanza government had promised many things ahead of the 2022 General Elections.

She warned that if the promises were not kept, Kenyans would vote the President William Ruto-led government out of power in the 2027 General Elections.

I believe each one of you wants to stay focused on what you promised the people in your counties.

"I beg of you as the chair of UDA let us stay focused on what we promised the hustlers because if we dont deliver those hustlers will send us out of power with a vengeance.

"Let us tone down on politics, it is not healthy. It is the wrong time, said Mbarire.

At the same time, the Embu governor urged UDA politicians to refrain from engaging in premature 2032 succession politics, emphasizing that they should instead focus on assisting Ruto in getting re-elected by actively working for the electorate.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Former Thika Town parliamentary aspirant Francis Gaitho has urged Kenyan revolutionaries to stop using Sauti Sols songs, claiming they are sponsored by the deep state.

In a social media post on Wednesday, Gaitho claimed that Sauti Sol was on former President Uhuru Kenyattas payroll and their purpose was to produce songs that keep Kenyan youth docile and enamored.

Please TikTokers, stop using that shitty Sauti Sol song Tujiangalie as your soundtrack.

"That group is a scam.

"They were on Uhurus payroll to keep young people docile and enamored.

"Thats why all their songs had shit like Rumba ya Statehouse or huenda akawa Kenyatta, Mwanzilishi wa taifa.

"If you didnt know, now you know.

"Its not a revolutionary song, its a sponsored song, Gaitho stated.

Gaitho is among the third liberation heroes who organized Tuesday's protests in Nairobi against the controversial and retrogressive Finance Bill 2024.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024  The spirited war to discredit Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and render him useless in Mt. Kenya seems to be working perfectly.

This is after President William Ruto ignored the DP and endorsed Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kurias new payment plan for coffee farmers even after Gachagua did the donkey work in the coffee sector.

While speaking in Kangema Murang'a County, Kuria revealed that in a previous Cabinet meeting, he proposed a new way of paying the farmers directly to Ruto.

"There's a new system President Ruto and I have brought; it's called the Direct Settlement System (DSS).

"This will ensure that when the coffee is sold, each farmer gets their payment instantly," he revealed.

This was yet another attack on the leadership of Gachagua, who has been championing equality and better pay for coffee farmers.

Kuria revealed that Ruto and other CSs backed his plan. His plan involves paying the money directly to the farmer's account rather than having the middleman.

He criticised the previous payment plan where the government disbursed Ksh6.8 billion to repay debts.

He argued that none of the funds reached the farmers.

"Did you get anything? Where did the money go and they claim it paid off debts?" he asked the residents.

The CS revealed that this was the same story used by other officials in the Mwai Kibaki regime where funds were disbursed to repay debts but no farmer received the money.

He argued that some rogue individuals were pocketing money meant for farmers and further crippling the production of coffee in the country especially in the Mt Kenya region.

"I brought the DSS plan before Cabinet and they supported me. This time round we will disburse money as before, we will pay money to each account," he remarked.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Kitui South MP Rachel Nyamai has urged President William Ruto not to be bothered by the ongoing demonstrations against the Finance Bill by Gen Z.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, Nyamai dismissed the Gen Zs, saying the youths who are protesting lack legitimate intentions.

She stated that some protestors were on the streets merely to gain attention on TikTok, but were not against the Finance Bill.

The legislator mentioned that one of the students she sponsors had conveyed this sentiment to her after participating in the protests.

According to Nyamai, the student had texted her, expressing concerns about the Finance Bill, particularly the proposed taxes on motor vehicle circulation and bread.

However, Nyamai noted that since these taxes had been scrapped, there was no reason for her sponsored student to continue protesting.

I asked her why were on the street, and the girl told me she was not on the street concerning the bill, she told me she was there for TikTok stated Nyamai.

To that end, Nyamai supported the controversial Finance Bill following the success of the 2023 Finance Act.

The MP's sentiments come against the backdrop of Kenyans staging protests across various parts of the country to oppose the adoption of the Finance Bill of 2024.

Youthful Kenyans thronged the streets, decrying that despite several clauses being struck off the bill, punitive measures still existed, leading them to reject the entire bill.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - A Kenyan has warned President William Ruto of a people-driven revolution that will oust bible-wielding boomers from power.

The Kenyan identified as Engineer Nyakisera said the revolution will be led by the fearless Gen-Z who are not scared of threats from pastors and corrupt and rogue police officers.

This is what Engineer Nyakisera wrote on his X page.

Gen Z wamesema Tupatane Thursday?

"The most vibrant generation that has been characterized by charisma and creativity has stepped and will leapfrog millennials.

"They are not scared by threats of curses from bible-wielding boomers.

"This group will ask hard questions.

"They are more truthful than Rigathi.

"They define their terms of engagement.

They are easy to understand and work with if we abandon our ego and sense of self-importance based on seniority or age.

"As a matter of fact, they are more informed than the likes of Gloria Orwoba, Omanga, Osoro, Nyamu, Kiborek, and Sudi.

"They listen and adore leaders who tend to resonate with them such as Okiyah Omtatah and Babu.

"But they will call them out as soon as they smell any whiff of betrayal.

"They love their celebrities, but call them out nonetheless.

"They love their parents, but they will call them out.

"They are asking Larry Madonna and CNN hard questions

"They have called out Kibe and his nyanyez low iQ Watson

"What if the millennials join them? What if they grow bolder?

"Raila and Omtatah are impressed.

Most MPs (if not scared), albeit quietly.

"The Gen Z energy is what Miguna Miguna thinks he has.

"There was no tribe at play, no political party, no religion or culture.

"Just legit issues. If I were the government, I would be very worried. #RejectFinanceBill2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Self-proclaimed National Resistance Movement (NRM) general, Miguna Miguna, has lauded Gen-Z and Millenials for leading demonstrations in Nairobi against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

Both generations stormed Nairobis Central Business District (CBD) on Tuesday, bravely protesting against the Finance Bill 2024.

Their actions forced the government to drop contentious clauses such as VAT on bread and the Motor Vehicle Tax.

Unlike past demonstrations marked by looting, Gen-Z and Millennials maintained peace, waving placards to criticize the government over the Finance Bill 2024.

In reaction to the demos, Miguna, who is also a lawyer and a barrister, congratulated Kenyan youths for reclaiming the country from looters and scoundrels.

Congratulations and Bravo to the Kenyan Gen-Z and Millennials for RECLAIMING our country and showing the looting, cruel and reckless power barons that REAL POWER BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE.

Keep using Social Media robustly. Do not retreat.

Keep pushing and resisting until the FINAL VICTORY. #REJECTFINANCEBILL2024, Miguna stated on X (formerly Twitter).

The Kenyan DAILY POST








Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Nairobi Region Police Commander Adamson Bungei is in deep trouble for manhandling and teargassing protesters.

This is after the Law Society of Kenya threatened to sue him over interference with protests within the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD).

In a notice directed to the Nairobi police boss, LSK President Faith Odhiambo accused Bungei of unlawfully deploying his officers to interfere with the peaceful protests.

The lawmakers called on the police commander to immediately withdraw the police officers and accord the demonstrators the leeway to carry on with their democratic rights.

According to LSK, failure by the police boss to withdraw the officers from the city centre would prompt it to file a petition in court against him.

We demand that Bungei calls off his directive immediately and instructs his officers to stand down from making any arbitrary arrest or meting violence against the protestors, read part of a statement by LSK.

The lawyers further argued that the officers were mandated with the role of providing security to the protestors and not interfering with their activities.

"We wish to sound our unequivocal warning to Bungei and all officers acting under his command from taking any act of aggression against the protestors in the name of giving effect to the irrational directive," the LSK boss noted.

LSK's demand comes hours after Adamson Bungei warned against planned protests against the punitive Finance Bill 2024 within the Nairobi CBD.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - Passengers on an Air New Zealand plane were unaware of the reason their plane made an unplanned stop on Monday, June 17 unknown to them that they were picking up the countrys prime minister after his government aircraft broke down.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and a group of prominent business leaders were en route to Tokyo for a summit with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The entourage was travelling on a Royal New Zealand Defense Force plane, which stopped in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea to refuel. Then the unexpected happened as the plane, a Boeing 757 over 30 years old, had a fuse issue and couldnt continue the journey.

Fortunately, one of the business leaders in the delegation was Air New Zealand (ANZ) CEO Greg Foran.





He made calls for an ANZ commercial flight traveling from Auckland to Tokyo to swing by Port Moresby and pick up some of the stranded passengers, including Luxon.

Coincidentally, Prime Minister Luxon, who was elected in 2023, spent seven years as the CEO of Air New Zealand before getting into politics.

New Zealands defence minister, Judith Collins, called the situation embarrassing in an interview with Kiwi radio station Newstalk ZB.

We have a very old aircraft and we are expecting it to perform like brand new out of the box and thats simply not going to happen, Collins said. No PM wants to spend an awful amount of money on something thats seen as nice to have by some people.






Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - A British oil tycoon has shot and killed his TV star wife before turning the gun on himself in a tragic murder-suicide at their home in Turkey.

Comedian Victoria Vera Blyth was killed by her husband David Thomas Blyth before he killed himself in their home in Turkey's capital, Ankara, on Tuesday, June 11.

The oil tycoon owned the international oil firm ASG Inspection while his wife presented the Morning Show on Europe 2.

The pair had three children, aged four, ten and 14, who have been placed in the care of their mother's family, who travelled to Turkey following the tragedy.

The deadly incident reportedly stemmed from a heated argument over the presenter's texts.

The pair married in 2014 and lived together in Prague for several years before moving to Turkey after Blyth's work took him to the Middle East.





Mrs Blyth, who was born in South Africa, studied music at university before rising to fame through the release of her first album in 2004.

The late comedians sister, Alexandra, paid tribute to her on Instagram as she revealed that their father recently passed away too.

She said: It is with deep sadness and pain that I have to announce that my beloved and beautiful sister, the sunshine of our lives who brought us so much joy, with her laughter, positive spirit, drive and energy, has left us forever.

Please, I'm begging you all, give us time for the sake of the children.

My family is going through a very difficult time because they lost both parents. We recently buried our father and now our sister and brother-in-law and we need time to recover, but most of all we need to be here for the children.

We really appreciate your beautiful messages, but in these difficult times we need time to breathe."




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - A little-known lady with killer curves has turned into a social media sensation after she was pictured during the finance demos that rocked the city on Tuesday.

Known as Sheila Ndolo, the chocolate-skinned lass has irresistible curves that left thirsty men, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, begging for her phone number.

See her photos below.













































The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - A police officer has reportedly lost his fingers after a teargas canister detonated in his hands.

This occurred during protests against the finance bill in the CBD.

The protest turned chaotic, leading the police to use water cannons and teargas to disperse the protesters.

However, one of the police officers lost his fingers after a teargas canister detonated in his hands.

The news has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media.

While some netizens sympathised with him, others criticised the police officer for using teargas at a peaceful protest.








Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga celebrated a young Gen Z girl who asked him on Tuesday to stay away from the Occupy Parliament protests.

The young woman, who had joined other Kenyans at the Nairobi CBD for the Occupy Parliament protest, urged the opposition leader to relax.

The woman acknowledged Raila's efforts in leading nationwide demonstrations to advocate for Kenyans' rights over the recent years.

We saw everything you did for Kenya; now let us. We miss you, but Agwambo, please don't even come outside," she said.

She asserted that she and her fellow young people will demonstrate for Kenyans' rights on his behalf.

In response, Raila expressed his gratitude on his X account (formerly Twitter) to the young lady and all Kenyans who demonstrated against the Finance Bill 2024.

He stated that seeing the young girl and other Kenyans fight for their rights makes him a proud father.

" I am a proud father today. Hongera sana to the young lady and all those who bravely stood up for their rights!" Raila's statement read.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - President William Ruto has lost a whopping Sh58 billion; the money he had planned to illegally collect from Kenyans in the name of motor vehicle circulation tax.

According to National Assembly Finance Chair Kimani Kuria, Ruto's government was planning on generating Ksh58 billion through the introduction of the tax.

The Motor Vehicle Tax was proposed by Ruto's administration as a strategy to raise revenue for the Ksh3.9 trillion budget. Motorists were to pay 2.5 per cent of the vehicles value.

"The motor vehicle circulation tax as proposed is going to raise Ksh58.02 billion," the MP stated during an interview.

Notably, Ksh58 billion was the targeted collection when the government still had the maximum cap of Ksh100, 000.

Therefore, this figure would have risen significantly following proposals to remove the Ksh100,000 cap.

This move would have seen Kenyans who own expensive vehicles pay more.

For instance, Kenyans driving a vehicle worth Ksh10 million were to pay Ksh250,000 per year after the removal of the cap.

However, Kenyans rejected the tax and forced Ruto and his government to drop it among other punitive taxes.

Apart from the public uproar, the proposed tax would have raised several legal issues. This is because the tax was being levied on assets and not income.

"The proposal to cap the levy at Ksh100,000 makes the tax discriminatory and non-progressive," the finance chair noted in his report to parliament.

"The proposal will have adverse effects on the insurance-taking behaviour of motor vehicle owners and further lead to negative effects on the insurance sector.

On the other hand, there were also concerns that the government was imposing a tax on tax given that the value of a vehicle is determined inclusive of the import duty among others.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024  President William Ruto is still in shock over the ongoing demonstrations against his Finance Bill by the young people, popularly known as the Gen Z.

The President never expected such resistance to his punitive bill from Gen Z, and now knows going forward that Azimio Leader Raila Odinga is the least of his problems.

But according to Azimio, Raila is still a force to be reckoned with and Ruto should realize this.

This is after it emerged that Raila is the one who has authorized Gen Zs to demonstrate against Rutos draconian bill.

In a statement yesterday, the Azimio Parliamentary Group (PG) resolved to reject the Finance Bill 2024, in its totality.

The opposition group made the resolution after a two-hour deliberation held moments after National Assembly Finance Committee Chair Kimani Kuria tabled the document in Parliament.

Azimio's decision was arrived at a time when Raila Odinga had shown admiration for the thousands of Kenyans who demonstrated against the Finance Bill.

Earlier, Kenya Kwanza PG had announced that it had deleted the tax proposals that had caused public outrage culminating in protests at Nairobi Central Business District.

Azimio la Umoja PG resolves to reject Finance Bill 2024 in its totality, including the proposed climbdown by the Kenya Kwanza regime, the group indicated.

The proposed changes are not substantial enough to better the lives of Kenyans who are reeling under heavy taxes contained in the current Finance Act.

After public uproar, the regime had shelved proposals to reduce excise duty on vegetable oil as well as an increase in mobile money transfer charges.

The Kenyan DAILY POST








Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - On Tuesday, thousands of Gen Z youth turned up at Nairobi Central Business District to protest against the punitive finance bill.

The peaceful demos attracted young Kenyans from all walks of life.

The daughter of former Lapsset CEO, Sylvester Kasuku, was among the protesters who braved teargas and police brutality to stand up for their rights.

Kileleshwa Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Robert Alai showered praises on the former senior government official for raising a strong daughter who can stand up for her rights.

Kudos to my great friend and former LAPSSET CEO Sylvester Kasuku for raising a strong daughter who can stand up for her rights, Alai tweeted.





The Kenyan DAILY POST.








Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - President William Ruto has spoken after the Tuesday demonstrations in Nairobis Central Business District over the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

Hundreds of protestors were arrested in the demos that were organized by civil rights groups and some online influencers.

Speaking about the demos after he engaged lawmakers under the Kenya Kwanza coalition, the president appreciated the events on Tuesday, June 18, saying they signified the growth of Kenyan democracy.

"We have had a robust public engagement on the proposed Finance Bill. We have adjusted the document accordingly.

"We are glad we are having conversations about issues, and our institutions are working. This is how democracies function," Ruto said.

The president appreciated that what informed the mass action this time were issues of national importance, as opposed to the previous shows motivated by politics.

He observed that Kenyans were sobering up to issues that need reflection and proper discussions, indicating the nation was headed in the right direction.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Wednesday, June 19, 2024  It seems that former President Uhuru Kenyatta is ready and willing to forgive Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for insulting him, sending goons to steal his sheep, and burning his Northlands City.

This was revealed by Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni.

However, Gachagua must meet certain irreducible minimums if he wants Uhuru to forgive and reconcile with him. Otherwise, he criticized Gachagua for attempting to gain the former president's attention.

Kioni urged the deputy president to stop interfering in the affairs of the Jubilee Party and to refrain from attempts to sabotage the former ruling party if he wants Uhurus attention.

"If you really want us to believe that you are apologising, release his Jubilee Party. What are you doing at the party?" Kioni posed.

According to the former Ndaragwa MP, some leaders working with Gachagua had already submitted their apologies.

"Those who are in court, including Kanini Kega and Sabine Chege, have been seeking an apology from Uhuru," said Kioni.

The Jubilee Party SG said to touch the cloak of the former president again, the leaders who had wandered too far must reject the Finance Bill 2024 in totality.

"If they ignore Kenyans and pass the Finance Bill, we will move around the country from Friday," Kioni stated.

He revealed that the opposition caravan will move across the country from Friday, beginning with Nakuru, to engage the public and reject the controversial proposal.

Gachagua, on a charm offensive of Limuru last weekend, asked Uhuru to forgive those who mocked him in 2022, saying their mistakes had caught up with them.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - A plastic surgeon has been arrested and charged in connection with his surgery-obsessed wife's death on his operating table.

The victim, Hillary Brown, 33, went under the knife on November 21 at her husband Dr Ben Brown's clinic, Restore Plastic Surgery, in Gulf Breeze Florida, before suffering a medical emergency in the middle of 'several procedures.'

Dr. Brown, 40, was charged on Monday, June 17, with second-degree felony homicide: manslaughter by culpable negligence in connection with his wife's death following an investigation by county and state officials.

Shocking details of her death have been revealed following an investigation by the state health department.

Dr. Brown's wife was having a 'miniature muscle plication/abdominal scar revision, bilateral arm liposuction, lip injections, and ear adjustment procedures' performed on the day of the cardiac arrest.

The findings of the investigation, which led to an emergency restriction of his license - show that Hillary, who had no medical training, almost acted as a nurse for her own procedure.

Hillary is said to have spiked her own IV bag while taking a 'handful' of pills that included Valium.





Dr. Brown even allowed Hillary to suture her own skin after the initial procedure.

As her husband began to do liposuction on her arm, Hillary started to grow restless, when her feet suddenly started to twitch.

'She stated that her vision started to blur, and she told Dr. Brown that she saw 'orange,'' the report claims.

However, her husband didn't stop the procedure, continuing to inject substances into her face.

Her twitching only got worse, until she became unresponsive and began having a seizure, the medical board says.

A medical assistant asked Dr. Brown if they should call 911 and Dr. Brown said 'no,'' despite Hillary's condition requiring a doctor to 'transfer to a higher level of care' after her seizure.

'Over the next 10-20 minutes, a medical assistant asked Dr. Brown if they should call 911 and Dr. Brown said 'no,' or 'wait.' The medical assistant was scared and a new employee, so she did as Dr. Brown instructed.'

Dr. Brown didn't just refuse to take Hillary to emergency care, he began to yell at his staff and asked her what she took.

He finally asked an assistant to dial 911 10 to 20 minutes after his wife's seizure.

A mother of three young children from a previous marriage, Hillary Brown spent a week in a coma before she passed away, she was taken off life support when it was determined her brain had been starved of oxygen.

Brown passed away seven days after the fateful procedure on November 21, when she was rushed to hospital after Ben alerted 911 from his clinic at around 4:15pm.

'Her cause of death was later determined to be 'complications following lidocaine toxicity,' the report states.



Ultimately, the board's official ruling says the way he treated his own wife was 'careless and haphazard.'

'The level of disregard Dr. Brown paid to patient safety, even when the patient was his wife, indicates that Dr. Brown is unwilling or incapable of providing the appropriate level of care to his future patients,' they wrote.

'Dr. Brown's most problematic violation during H.R.'s procedure was his failure to react swiftly in response to a serious medical emergency.'

Brown could face up to life in prison, life on probation, and a $10,000 fine if convicted of second-degree homicide.

Her husband's clinic is reportedly also facing several separate medical malpractice lawsuits.





Brown's father, Marty Ellington, told the Pensacola News Journal that he received a frantic phone call from Ben telling them to race to Florida from their home in Texas right away.

While saying her relationship with Ben had been volatile, Ellington said, she appreciated his career.

'She was gorgeous. We kept telling her, 'Why are you doing this?' he recalled.

According to the Pensacola News Journal, deputies previously responded to a call at the couple's $2.1 million Florida mansion in March, 'in reference to a suicide.'

Ben reportedly told the dispatcher his wife was 'barely conscious and still unresponsive due to self-medication with an unknown amount of Valium.' Hillary admitted to taking the Valium but denied being suicidal, saying she just wanted her husband to know 'she was serious.'






Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - Family, friends and community members on Tuesday, January 18, 2024, protested over the murder of a woman by her ex-boyfriend in South Africa.

Thumeka Nncindi was brutally murdered allegedly by Bralee in Sterkspruit, Eastern Cape, on 12 June 2024.

It was gathered that Thumeka's lifeless body was found with more than thirty stab wounds.

It was further learnt that the suspect who had been on the run since then has been arrested and appeared in court today.

The protesters called for justice for Thumbeka and the suspect to be denied bail.




Wednesday, June 19, 2024  The International Community has added its voice to the dire situation in Kenya, accusing President William Ruto of duping Kenyans.

Ruto has been criticised both within and without the country for changing his stance after taking over office, especially on the taxes imposed on Kenyans and the proper use of public funds.

In the country, Ruto has been blamed for failing to fulfill his campaign promises to Kenyans especially to 'Hustlers' who were a major part of his campaign agenda.

Also, he has been attacked for increasing taxes on Kenyans despite critiquing the previous government for the same.

Outside the country, Zimbabwean author Nomazulu Thata is the newest critic of Ruto after Kenya was accorded non-NATO ally status by US President Joe Biden.

In a statement, the author argued that Ruto's recent move to become part of NATO was detrimental to the country and the continent at large.

"What changed the mind of a President, from a moral high ground, eloquently unpacking chronic African debt challenges to a black boy from Kenya?" she posed.

She further argued that Ruto had deserted his former policies to protect Kenya and the dignity of African leaders.

Thata added that other African countries especially those in West Africa were forcefully removing foreign military bases from their countries. This was contrary to Ruto's move to form strong military ties with the US.

Another of Ruto's turnaround was Indian television station Firstpost Africa, which did a scathing analysis of Ruto's multimillion jet trip to the United States in May.

The foreign station criticised Ruto's move to fly out of the country in an expensive plane while carrying individuals who were not part of the government such as comedians.

In a different analysis by the Institute for Security Studies, Ruto was in the spotlight for being too pro-Western. Some African critics argued that he was too close to Western countries.

Another survey published by MegaTrends Afrika, also highlighted how Ruto was winning hearts abroad but becoming unpopular back home.

In the survey, Ruto's peers criticised his foreign policy stance which appeared to be more aligned to the West rather than towards Africa.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
Drug use has a complicated history in the Western World. Not quite two hundred years ago, starting in the Fall of 1839, Britain attacked the nation of China for having the audacity to ban an addictive substance, opium, that the British were selling to the Chinese people. Opiate addiction was rampant in China at the time, and the emperor had issued a prohibition on the drug. Britain destroyed much of the Chinese Navy, forcing China to pay reparations for destroyed opium stocks and to resume trade, which continued until there was another war in 1856 that ended with the burning of the Summer Palace.

This would be like the Nation of Columbia if it had the force to do so, attacking and destroying the American military over the right to ship us cocaine. Now, fentanyl and carfentanyl, made from chemicals sold wholesale to Mexican cartels by China, is flooding across the American border through commercial checkpoints. And the result has been deadly. From 1999 to 2018, the Centers for Disease Control documented 769,935 deaths from drug overdose. At that time, they categorized these as being due to prescription medications OR heroin. This turns out to have been a big and avoidable mistake.

To get government funding, it is not unusual for beneficiaries of those funds to claim an impending crisis is nigh upon us. How many remember the Satanic Panic of the 80s? The dastardly Satanists, identified by their Metallica t-shirts and Steven King novels, were going to bring about the destruction of all good and decent American folk. Experts popped up everywhere to opine in courtrooms how this or that murder bore the marks of ritualistic abuse. One expert accepted by a court in Arkansas, Dr. Dale Griffis, was a retired police officer whose doctorate did not require any classes. (West Memphis 3.)

To fight the scourge, local, state, and federal governments spent lots of money on preventative programs, which, since the problem didnt exist in the first place, were equally effective and unnecessary. Only a little more than 200 Americans were wrongfully convicted during the Satanic Panic, with Dan and Fran Keller holding the sad record of over 21 years behind bars before exoneration. It is estimated, however, that there were over 12,000 complaints that turned out to be unsubstantiated. How much worse would it have been if the authorities had accepted all of these at face value?

But the Satanic Panic will pale in comparison, and consequences to the Opioid Panic. To create this panic, heroin, and fentanyl deaths were counted as an overdose by prescription deaths, creating the false impression that American physicians overprescribing were responsible for the crisis. This assumption was false. Overdose deaths among drug users who have access to a known drug and concentration are quite rare. I have said it before; three times more people die every year from NSAIDs than heroin. Thats because most drug addicts dont actually want to die and are cautious to prevent it.

The most likely time for overdose is after an addict is released from jail. During incarceration, they will have reset their pain receptors, and Cytochrome P450 enzymes and the resumption of their usual dose can kill them. The way to prevent this is to have buprenorphine or methadone and addiction counseling available in all jails so that these interventions can be started immediately after incarceration. The person can then be given follow-up on release and perhaps an injection of the one-month acting subcutaneous preparations or at least long-acting naltrexone.

I cannot find a single state that has used the hundreds of millions in opioid settlement money to do this. Which disproves any state or federal efforts claim to actually help those suffering from this affliction. I personally suggested such a program to my senators in 2019 and volunteered to help set it up. Im still waiting for a response. Prescriptions peaked around 2012 and started dropping as physicians recognized that some adjustments were necessary to balance the quality of life benefits of opiate treatment with the increased but still almost unmeasurable increased risk of addiction.

This trend started without any law enforcement intervention, no doors kicked in, or machine guns pointed at patients, but that wasnt good enough. Never underestimate the ability of a government to take something that is improving slowly and make it horribly worse very rapidly. In 2016, the CDC took it upon itself to create non-evidence-based guidelines. These were completely opinion-based, without sufficient input from pain medicine organizations, patient advocates, or even true addiction experts. It was based instead on the judgement of a few researchers with extreme opinions.

One of the participants can be seen on video saying, We dont have time for evidence. I disagree. Unlike bleeding, theres always time for evidence. The guidelines were taken as holy writs by the DEA and forced onto the state medical boards with the threat of physician prosecutions; this threat was then carried out when things didnt change fast enough to satisfy the DOJ. Doctors stopped treating pain in droves, prescription rates dropped to 1993 levels, patients were abandoned and sent to the streets to find adulterated heroin and pills, and the death rate from fentanyl poisoning skyrocketed.

Now, the DEA could go back to Congress and demand even more funding, having created a true catastrophe out of a previously self-correcting problem. But that still wasnt good enough. To ensure the wholesale prosecution of physicians and other prescribing providers, with some pharmacists, dentists, and at least one chiropractor thrown in for good measure, the government needed some help. And it turned to AI. While my training in computer and neuroscience probably gives me a better understanding of the subject than the average person in America, my useful expertise is limited.

For that reason, I depend on the genius of machine learning specialists like Angela Kilby, PhD. Dr. Kilby studied at the London School of Economics and Political Science before completing a PhD at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Going on to join the faculty of Northeastern University at the Institute for Experiential A.I. and being credentialed in Natural Language Processing with Deep Learning. She then became a staff and later a senior machine learning researcher at AKASA. AKASA is, according to its LinkedIn page, the preeminent provider of generative AI solutions for the health care revenue cycle.

According to the article by Angela Kilby, an analysis of dispensing data compiled from the DEAs own ARCOS reporting system, combined with opioid overdose statistics from the CDCs NCHS Vital Statistics mortality data, 2016, the year the CDC guidelines were published, coincides perfectly with the transition from heroin and prescription overdoses predominating to fentanyl overdoses predominating. Just like during alcohol prohibition, the U.S. government took a societal problem and multiplied it by ten, creating a giant market for criminal enterprises, who, in this case, rapidly began making fake pills and heroin.

I am not unconvinced that China is continuing to supply the cartels with base chemicals necessary for the production of these poisoned pills to get some payback from the Western World for what happened to them so long ago during the opium wars. Or perhaps they saw how effective it was at damaging their own economy and society and decided to use this weapon against its main rival, the USA. To this end, they could not have asked for a more useful assistant than the DEA. By targeting and destroying so many doctors who were earnestly treating addiction and pain, the DEA has helped create a sea of victims.

This wholesale destruction would not have been possible without the help of AI combing through PMP data. I have written about how the data algorithms currently being used to detect addiction and diversion risk across this nation, branding patients as too at risk and physicians as over prescribers, are biased and inaccurate. My analysis, however, was based on a clinical understanding of the complexity of each individual patient, paired with the stigma that physicians and patients face when confronting the challenge of severe chronic pain or addiction.

Dr. Kilby, however, completed her own, much more data-laden analysis, warning back in 2021 that machine learning models currently being developed to identify individuals at risk of opioid use disorder and inform clinical decision making around the prescribing of opioids are not well-specified to generate individual scores that correlate with the object of interest, an individuals heterogeneous treatment effect of receiving an opioid. The results indicate that if doctors were to reallocate prescribing according to the algorithms recommendations  prescribing fewer opioids to chronic pain patients and more to patients identified as low-risk, they would, at best, make no improvements on existing decision-making and perhaps actually worsen rates of development of opioid use disorder.

Concluding in the final pages of Algorithmic Fairness in Predicting Opioid Use Disorder that,

A growing body of research attributes these changing dynamics of mortality and rising overall lethality of the opioid crisis in recent years to increasingly restrictive prescribing practices beginning in the mid-2000s. These restrictions led to a scarcity of illicitly obtained prescription opioids, which can be dangerous or lethal to abuse but are still safer than heroin due to their manufactured nature, which yields a predictable dose with no adulterants. As prescribing restrictions led to a shift away from black market opioid pills and towards heroin (increasingly frequently adulterated with fentanyl) and counterfeit opioid pills containing synthetic fentanyl, the crisis grew more lethal (Evans, Lieber, and Power, 2019).

I could not agree more.

L. Joseph Parker is a distinguished professional with a diverse and accomplished career spanning the fields of science, military service, and medical practice. He currently serves as the chief science officer and operations officer, Advanced Research Concepts LLC, a pioneering company dedicated to propelling humanity into the realms of space exploration. At Advanced Research Concepts LLC, Dr. Parker leads a team of experts committed to developing innovative solutions for the complex challenges of space travel, including space transportation, energy storage, radiation shielding, artificial gravity, and space-related medical issues.

He can be reached on LinkedIn and YouTube.
By Winfred Watenya

The meeting between President Museveni and city traders which was scheduled to take place on June 20th, 2024 has been postponed.

This was revealed by the leaders of traders following a meeting with the President held at State House, Entebbe yesterday.

The Chairperson of Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), Dr. Thadeus Musoke and John Kabanda, the Chairman of the Federation of Ugandas Traders Associations (FUTA) said in a joint statement that they have agreed with President Museveni to reschedule the meeting that was meant to take place this Thursday at Kololo Ceremonial grounds to July 31st, 2024.

According to a press statement issued by State House, the postponement is also to allow both sides do thorough research on the subject matter, so that they come up with a final resolution to end a long standing dispute over Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)s Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS).

This was meant to be a follow-up meeting. The president first met the traders in a general meeting at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on May 7th 2024 where they raised concerns over challenges they face as they carry out their businesses.
As the government continues to look for various opportunities to create employment for the youth, MTN-Uganda has earmarked over Shs.4.5 billion for 150 business starts-ups.

The telecom companys Chief Executive Officer Sylvia Mulinge, says the investment targets to benefit over 8,000 across the country.

She says the two-year project will be implemented through the MTN-Ace a youth-centered economic empowerment program designed for fresh graduates, as well as innovators.

In this second phase we will set up four regional ICT and innovation hubs in the main national public university across the country, outside the radius of Kampala, Starting off with Makerere  kampala, Gulu  north, kabale  west and Busitema university in the east, Mulinge added.
By Suzan Nanjala

Soroti Hospital regional referral hospital administration has expressed concern over a spike in new cases of Hepatitis B registered at the facility.

The coordinator emergency treatment Dr Athanasius Ariengu, currently they have over 200 patients being handled at the hepatitis B clinic which is conducted every Tuesday.

He notes that due to this growing number of patients, the clinic sometimes runs short of drugs, affecting patient viral load suppression.

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV).

For most people, hepatitis B is short term, also called acute, and lasts less than six months.

But for others, the infection becomes chronic, meaning it lasts more than six months.

According to health experts, having chronic hepatitis B increases ones risk of developing liver failure, liver cancer or cirrhosis a condition that permanently scars the liver.

Hepatitis B signs and symptoms may include abdominal pain, dark urine, fever, Joint pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, weakness and fatigue, yellowing of the skin.
The Uganda Revenue Authority has partnered with various tax experts, including those in academia to sensitize traders on the controversial Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS) that led to a recent standoff between the tax man and the business community.

The authoritys Assistant Commissioner of Public and Corporate Affairs Ibrahim Bossa has welcomed the move, saying it will go a long way in boosting tax education among members of the public.

As an authority we prayed I being able to meet and dialogue with our stake holders, a stake holder dialogue is part and passo of revenue mobilisation, so we think that this is a very powerful platform that can enable the URA but also our stakeholders to discus honestly on some of the issues, he commented.

Recently the traders closed their shops protesting what they called unfair implementation of the digital invoicing system, claiming they did not know how the system worked.
Daithi Holohan and Jim Murray will launch their new book Pictures and Poetry in St Canices Community Hall in Kilkenny City on Wednesday, July 3.

The book is a combined effort from Daithi and Jim featuring their prose and illustrated by Daithi himself.

Daithi and Jim are no strangers to each other.

They have been friends for years, have shared a great wealth of experiences together and are well known for their work locally.

Both have also used their artistic talents as a creative outlet during the most challenging times in their lives and careers.

Murrays most recent release, Orchestra of Poems, is a wonderful compilation of work.

Both Murray and Holohan have an unmatched ability to document human struggle and the unconquerable human spirit.

They both also have a keen eye for the lighter side of humanity, nature, history and folklore.

This upcoming publication will be Daithi Holohans first formally published poetic project, but he is no stranger to the written word.

The publications cover (pictured) will be a portrait that Daithi painted of Jim, based on a sketch from many years ago.

It signifies their shared vision, experiences and struggles as artists.

It would be difficult to think of a more fitting duo to join forces on a collaborative project such as this.

Well-known local thespian Ger Cody will launch the book.

All are welcome to attend the launch which is set to start at 7pm. The book will be 15 to purchase.
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Japanese sex workers on tourist visas handed over to immigration

By KTimes

Two men have been indicted for hiring over 80 Japanese women, including adult film actors, to arrange prostitution services in South Korea, according to Yonhap News Agency.

The prosecution said Tuesday it detained and indicted Yoon, in his 30s, the actual owner, and Park, also in his 30s, the manager, both on charges of arranging prostitution.

The investigation revealed that these individuals, both Korean nationals, posted advertisements titled "Girls from the Land of the Rising Sun" on prostitution websites, facilitating the entry of dozens of Japanese women into South Korea to engage in prostitution.

The women provided sexual services to customers in hotels across Seoul and Gyeonggi Province.

Japanese adult film actors reportedly received between 1.3 million ($940) and 2.5 million won per client.

To recover approximately 300 million won of criminal proceeds obtained from operating these illegal businesses, the prosecution has taken steps to confiscate the suspects' assets, including rental deposits and vehicles.

"We will ensure that punishments commensurate with the gravity of the crimes are imposed and that criminal proceeds are confiscated and forfeited. We will continue to respond sternly to crimes related to the arrangement of prostitution," said an official from the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office.

Police have also handed over the Japanese sex workers to the immigration office, as it was found that they entered the country under the false pretense of tourism.

This article is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.


The Korean spy movie "Harbin," starring Hyun Bin, is set to premiere at this year's Toronto International Film Festival in September, the movie's distributor said Wednesday.

The espionage thriller has been officially invited to the festival, slated for Sept. 5-15, as part of the Gala Presentations, for its deep, beautiful portrayal of a historic Korean event, CJ ENM said.

The category honors high-profile feature films, often featuring international movie stars.

Set in 1909, the movie depicts the suspenseful pursuit between those heading to Harbin in northern China for a mission. Among them is renowned Korean independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun (1879-1910), who shot and killed Ito Hirobumi, Japan's first prime minister and resident-general of Korea, at Harbin Station. Korea was under brutal Japanese colonial rule from 1910 to 1945.

Hyun Bin stars as Ahn Jung-geun, alongside Park Jung-min, Jeon Yeo-been, Jo Woo-jin, Yoo Jae-myung, Park Hoon and Lee Dong-wook.

It marks the latest feature by director Woo Min-ho, known for his sharp insight into historical and political themes in his previous work, like "The Man Standing Next" (2020) and "Inside Man" (2015).

Renowned cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo, best known for his work on Bong Joon-ho's "Parasite" (2019) and "Snowpiercer" (2013), has teamed up with the director on the project.

"Harbin" was shot in diverse locations across three countries: Korea, Latvia and Mongolia.

The film is expected to hit local theaters in the second half, the distributor said. (Yonhap)
By Pyo Kyung-min

A decade since captivating Korean audiences with its dazzling 2014 premiere, the musical "Frankenstein" is back with a star-studded cast, aiming to build on its past success.

"Frankenstein," one of Korea's most successful homegrown musicals, is based on Mary Shelley's 1818 gothic novel. The story follows Dr. Victor Frankenstein, who defies the realm of god with his creation: the monster he brings to life.

Since its 2014 premiere, "Frankenstein" has captivated many musical enthusiasts, winning a whopping nine awards at the Korea Musical Awards in its debut year. The production also made history in 2016 as the first Korean musical to be exported to Japan through a deal with Toho Studios.

Now, for its 10th anniversary, the musical is back with an even more prestigious cast. The lead role of Dr. Frankenstein, a mad scientist eager to defy the laws of life and death, is portrayed by renowned actors Yoo Jun-sang, Shin Sung-rok, Kyuhyun of Super Junior and Jeon Dong-suk.

Joining them as Henry Dupre  Frankenstein's friend bound for a monstrous fate  are actors Park Eun-tae, Kai, Lee Hae-jun and Ko Eun-sung.

The show is directed by Wang Yong-bum, known for his works "Jack the Ripper," "Ben-Hur" and "Beethoven Secret," along with composer and music director Brandon Lee.

Last Friday's show, featured actors Kyuhyun and Park onstage, with their exceptional vocal performances living up to the show's 10th-anniversary reputation.

Kyuhyun impressed the crowd with his vocal talent, effortlessly shedding his previous image as a K-pop band member. Particularly notable was his portrayal of a man's sorrows upon losing his beloved family member to the Monster's scheme, which even led some members of the audience to actual tears.

Park's interpretation of Dupre was equally noteworthy as he evolved from a diligent, loyal friend-assistant to a revenge-driven Monster. His clear, high notes and heartfelt expressions showcased his deep understanding of the character.

However, despite its stellar cast, questions persisted over whether the production's overall quality matches its acclaim.

For some viewers, particularly those unfamiliar with the musical, the storyline seemed disjointed. The show, having diverged significantly from the original novel, failed to provide sufficient context, leaving newcomers often puzzled.

What distinguishes this adaptation is the unique twist on Frankensteins Monster. Unlike traditional versions where the Monster is assembled from anonymous corpses, here, the Monster includes the head of Frankensteins friend Dupre. However, it is clear that the Monster is not Dupre himself, and this twist deepens the already complex relationship between Frankenstein and his creation.

In a pivotal scene, for example, a child lost in the woods encounters Dupre as the Monster, who initially offers comfort and shares a story of creating life. However, the moment takes an abrupt turn when Dupre shoves the child into the water out of the blue, claiming that the child will "also act 'human' when he grows up."

This scene perplexes viewers who had sympathized with the abandoned Monster, now causing harm to an innocent child. While there is still room for interpretation, especially considering that the actor playing the child had previously portrayed young Frankenstein, it remains a challenging aspect for first-time viewers to fully grasp.

Moreover, it was hard to overlook that several numbers in the play were overly similar. As the performance progressed, most numbers followed a pattern of high-pitched, dramatic endings to elicit applause from the audience. While the actors' vocal prowess deserved recognition, the repetition of such structured numbers turned into a flaw.

Despite these criticisms, "Frankenstein" continues to attract musical lovers, maintaining deserved popularity with its stellar cast.

This production runs until Aug. 25 at Bluesquare Shinhan Card Hall in Yongsan District, Seoul.
Parental leave to be extended to 18 months

By Yi Whan-woo

The government will increase the maximum allowance for parents taking child care leave to 2.5 million won ($1,812) per month, up from the current 1.5 million won, for the first three months of their leave.

The government will also expand the period of child care leave from the current 12 months to 18 months.

The Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy announced these measures, Wednesday, as part of the government's strengthened efforts to raise Korea's birthrate, currently the world's lowest. The country's total fertility rate, representing the average number of expected births per woman in her lifetime, stood at 0.72 in 2023.

According to the committee, a new ministry tentatively named the Ministry of Strategic Population Planning will be established to spearhead initiatives in three pivotal areas: achieving a balance between work and family life, expanding childcare programs, and enhancing housing support.

In order to fully mobilize the states capabilities, the head of the ministry will double as the deputy prime minister for social affairs across education, labor, welfare and other relevant sectors.

The dwindling population driven by the low birthrate is the most crucial and fatal problem faced by society, President Yoon Suk Yeol said as he presided over the committee meeting.

In that regard, the government declares a state of emergency concerning population, and with resolute determination, will make full-fledged efforts to address the challenges, he added.

Under the schemes, the cap for child care leave allowance for working parents will be raised to 2.5 million won for the first three months, in an effort to reduce the financial burden on parents raising children. The cap will then be 2 million won for the next three months and 1.6 million won for the following six months.

Parents will also be allowed to take child care leave for up to 18 months, up from the current 12 months.

They will also have the option to split the leave into three periods, an increase from the current two, to provide greater flexibility and efficiency.

After-school care programs will gradually expand to include all elementary school students, whereas currently only first-graders benefit from them. Additionally, free education will be offered to children as young as three years old, down from the current age of five.

To alleviate educational pressures in a highly competitive society, the education ministry will collaborate with universities and other educational institutions to expand the availability of free English classes in kindergarten and after-school programs for primary school students.

For families with multiple children, opportunities for college admissions will be expanded for each child. Additionally, discounts will be offered to these households when using public facilities such as KTX high-speed trains and airport parking lots.

To help more newlyweds and families with newborn babies cope with housing issues, the maximum yearly income allowed to take out subsidized jeonse loans will be increased to 100 million won, up from 75 million won.

A jeonse loan refers to a lump-sum deposit paid for a rental space under a contract period of two years or longer, instead of paying monthly rent. Unlike rent, the jeonse money is returned to the lessee after the rental contract ends.

The government's housing supply for families with newborn babies will be increased to 120,000 homes per year, up from 70,000 currently planned by the land ministry.

A statement released by the committee did not specify a timeframe for the implementation of the policy changes, but emphasized the need for rapid execution before the "golden time" for improvement lapses.

It noted that the current fertility rate is pushing Korea toward demographic challenges at an accelerated pace, heightening risks of crises related to labor shortages, economic stability, and national security concerns.
State-run lender injects 299 bil. won to improve KDB Life

By Anna J. Park

The uncertain fate of KDB Life Insurance has long presented a headache to its major shareholder, the Korea Development Bank (KDB).

The key problem for the state-run lender is that there are only two feasible paths regarding the future of the life insurer: either selling the firm at a price that would leave the KDB with handsome returns or keeping it under the wing of the KDB as an escalating liability.

The first option was probably what the KDB had in mind when it decided to acquire KDB Life during the restructuring of Kumho Group in 2010. Yet, the state-run bank's past six attempts to sell the life insurance firm have all ended in failure.

The second option of keeping it under the KDB is also problematic. It has already cost quite a money on the part of the KDB to improve the financial structure of the insurance company.

On top of over 1.2 trillion won ($868 million) worth of money granted to the life insurer, the KDB has recently decided to inject additional 299 billion won into KDB Life Insurance to improve its financial structure.

Earlier this week, the KDB released a public disclosure that it would invest 299 billion won in KDB Consus Value Private Equity Fund, a buyout private equity fund jointly established by KDB and Consus Asset Management in 2010 to acquire KDB Life Insurance. KDB holds a 70 percent stake in this fund, while Consus Asset holds a 2.29 percent stake.

The KDB said it may invest an additional 8 billion won to cover future fund expenses, which might increase the total potential investment by the state-run bank this time up to 307 billion won.

When KDB Life Insurance receives the capital injection, the KDB would focus on revamping the insurer's financial structure with the ultimate goal of selling it.

Insurer's weak financial structure remains a challenge

However, major potential obstacles to the successful sale of the insurer lie in its relatively weak financial soundness and corporate value compared to competitors, as well as the life insurance sector's overall sluggish market outlook.

KDB Life Insurance's new risk-based capital (RBC) requirement  a ratio that ensures financial companies' holding enough capital to sustain operating, according to a new Korea Insurance Capital Standard  stood at 117.5 percent at the end of last year, down from 134.1 percent in the previous quarter.

Although it met the minimum legal requirement of 100 percent under the Insurance Business Act, it not only fell short of the financial authorities' recommended level of 150 percent but also lagged far behind the average 232.8 percent of life insurance companies.

Insurance industry watchers said KDB Life's RBC ratio has improved to over 130 percent at the end of the first quarter of this year, and the new capital infusion from the KDB this time is expected to help the firm to comfortably exceed the financial authorities' recommended level.

With the RBC requirement ratio improving and other monetary indicators enhancing with the capital injection, the KDB is anticipated to exert efforts to raise the life insurer's corporate value by following various strategies, including restructuring and reassessment.

Earlier this month, KDB Chairman Kang Seog-hoon referred to KDB Life as a "sore finger" during a press conference marking his second anniversary of taking the post.

"We did our best for the sale, but there were no prospective buyers. As the private equity fund holding KDB Life Insurance's stake matures in February next year, the KDB is currently examining ways to enhance the value of KDB Life Insurance and will later decide what to do with it," Kang said.
By Yoon Ja-young

Superbank, an Indonesian digital bank that KakaoBank invested in, has been officially launched, according to the Korean internet-only bank, Wednesday.

Last September, KakaoBank acquired a 10 percent stake in Superbank as part of a partnership with Grab, Southeast Asia's biggest mobility application. Grab is one of Superbank's major shareholders, along with Singapore Telecommunications and Southeast Asia's media giant EMTEK. It marked KakaoBank's first overseas investment.

Supported by industry leaders in the fields of technology, media and finance, such as Grab, EMTEK, Singtel and KakaoBank, Superbank has been continuing to integrate cutting-edge technology and expertise in financial services into its products and offerings.

KakaoBank offered advice on the user interface and user experience of Superbank's mobile banking service for its successful launch, including ideas for Celengan, the bank's automatic saving service.

Superbank enhanced the convenience and accessibility of Grab users. They can directly open Superbank accounts via the Grab app and also link the account to pay for diverse services such as GrabFood and GrabBike.

KakaoBank plans to enhance its understanding of the Southeast Asian market and strengthen its global capacity by joining the product and service development of Superbank.

"Based on our mobile financial technology and strategic partnership, we will contribute to the development of the sector in Indonesia as well as expanding the basis for our business, including establishing a global digital bank network," a KakaoBank spokesperson said.
Korea posted a record current account surplus with the United States last year on brisk demand for autos and increased interest income, but it continued to suffer a current account deficit with China last year, the central bank said Wednesday.

The country's current account surplus with the U.S. totaled $91.25 billion last year, sharply widening from a $68.97 billion surplus the previous year, according to the Bank of Korea (BOK).

Korea's overall current account surplus widened to $35.49 billion in 2023 from $85.23 billion a year earlier.

Korea reported a current account deficit of $30.98 billion with China, the country's top trading partner, last year, following a deficit of $8.45 billion the previous year, the first shortfall since 2001.

Korea saw its current account deficit with Japan narrow to $16.86 billion from $17.69 billion over the cited period, while the country logged a current account surplus of $6.39 billion with the European Union, following the previous year's $5.51 billion current account surplus, according to the central bank.

Korea's current account deficit with the Middle East ballooned to $73.74 billion last year, down from $88.43 billion a year earlier on a decline in crude prices, according to the BOK. (Yonhap)
A major city-based economic bloc backed by the concentration of population, social resources and infrastructure could be an answer for balanced regional development, a central bank report showed Wednesday.

According to the report from the Bank of Korea (BOK), massive infrastructure investment and facilities in some major cities can transform them into regional economic blocs, which in turn can narrow gaps in productivity with the capital Seoul and the wider capital area.

"Regional productivity is affected by the degree of concentration on infrastructure, business activities and production-supporting facilities," the BOK report said.

"Spatial concentration will facilitate resource sharing, improve the cycle of labor market, production and consumption, and, in turn, raise regional productivity," the central bank said.

The central bank report said in the era of an increasing population, the construction of infrastructure across the country was an important task.

"But in times of a declining population, we need to change our paradigm into major city-based balanced development," the report said. (Yonhap)
By Lee Hae-rin

Busan will launch Busan Pay, Korea's first foreigner-only mobile currency service, to boost local tourism, the city government announced Tuesday, the day before the service's introduction.

Busan Pay features the city's local currency payment, a public transport mobile application and a prepaid card.

Any foreign national can use Busan Pay by registering a dedicated prepaid card on the mobile app.

The Busan Pay app can be downloaded on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, and prepaid cards are available at kiosks in Gimhae International Airport, Busan Station and major tourist information centers around the city.

Dongbaekjeon payment, Busan's local currency named after camellias, the city's official flower, can be charged with overseas credit cards through a mobile app and offers numerous cashback benefits.

Busan Pay can be used to make payments at large shopping malls and duty free shops without cashback benefits.

Notably, the app and Busan Pay website provide tourism information in English, Japanese and Chinese on major tourist destinations, restaurants and tour guides.

Also, Busan Pay features the Visit Busan Pass, which the Busan Metropolitan City and the Busan Tourism Organization launched in February to offer discounts to lesser-known and must-visit restaurants and tourist attractions.

The pass, available only to foreign visitors, is valid for either 24 or 48 hours after purchase, costing 49,000 won ($38) and 69,000 won, respectively. It offers free rides on city tour buses, coastal trains and free entrance to over 30 tourist attractions and facilities, including Songdo Marine Cable Car and Lotte World Adventure Busan.

The pass also offers discounts at 77 foreigner-friendly facilities, including restaurants and souvenir shops that city officials listed based on a two-year study of foreign independent travelers' preferred itineraries in the city.

Busan Pay also features mobile QR tickets for the city railway, which are available in one-day and three-day passes.

Busan Pay cards can be used as transportation cards for buses and taxis and are issued at designated Busan Bank branches.

Also, the city offers a one-on-one inquiry service foreign language call center dedicated to Busan Pay and its app.

The city plans to gradually link foreign language menu information service to Busan Pay later this year.

"Busan Pay is expected to contribute to the development of the Busan tourism industry by providing not only local currency payment but also various services to foreign visitors. The city will develop it to establish itself as a convenient tourism platform without language barriers," said Shin Chang-ho, the head of Busan Metropolitan City's Digital Economy Innovation Office.
Fair commences without government financial support after disputes with culture ministry

By Park Han-sol

To get a glimpse of this years Seoul International Book Fair (SIBF), the largest annual book and publishing trade show in Korea, one needs to start by picking up a classic: Jonathan Swifts 1726 satirical novel Gullivers Travels.

Turning the pages to the books lesser-known Part 4 reveals Gullivers journey to the Land of Houyhnhnms, a utopian society populated by rational, talking horses and savage humanoids called Yahoos.

The fairs upcoming edition, running from June 26 t0 30 at COEX in southern Seoul, embraces the theme of Houyhnhnm to explore the vision of a peaceful future free from human-caused suffering.

Inspired by Swift, who pondered and criticized the corrupt state of 18th-century English society by imagining a fictional land of rational beings, we wanted to share this moment of reflection with readers today, SIBF Director Joo I-roo said at a press conference, Wednesday.

Book lovers from across the country are expected to flock to the five-day event to attend a string of lectures, talks and exhibitions hosted by 185 guest speakers and 452 publishers from 18 countries.

One intriguing approach the fair is taking to address the theme is through the publication of a rewritten version of "Gullivers Travels" by the writer Kim Yeon-su.

Kims project takes cues from the first-ever Korean translation of Swifts novel by Choe Nam-sun (1890-1957), who introduced only the first two parts of the original book to the domestic literary scene in 1909. In Choes rendering, many cultural references and terms were loosely localized to better suit the context in Korea.

Kim adopts a similar approach and reimagines the books third and fourth parts, even conjuring up the encounter between Gulliver and Koreas Robin Hood-like hero, Hong Gil-dong, toward the end.

Therefore, rather than being a faithful translation of Swifts original work, this rendition is the product of its literary interpretation through the lens of Korea in 2024, Kim noted.

This year's event features Saudi Arabia as the guest country of honor, with Oman and Norway appearing as spotlight countries.

Among the literary heavyweights and stars attending are Jokha Alharthi, the first Arab author to win the Man Booker International Prize in 2019 for Celestial Bodies; Michelle Zauner, the writer behind the best-selling heartfelt memoir Crying in H Mart; and Harvey Award-winning graphic novelist Keum Suk Gendry-Kim.

Meanwhile, this is the first edition being held without government funding, following ongoing disputes between the culture ministry and the fairs organizer, Korean Publishers Association (KPA), concerning apparent financial irregularities from 2018 to 2022.

The government has instructed the association to return the profits generated from the SIBF, and in response, the KPA has initiated an administrative lawsuit against this decision.

We are operating the 2024 iteration with contributions from our publisher members, as well as donations and fees paid by participating agencies, KPA President Yoon Chul-ho said.

I believe this new model of the fair will demonstrate that creators and consumers of culture can thrive in their own strengths, even without relying on state support.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged Tuesday to do "everything" to cut off North Korea's support for Russia amid the war in Ukraine, as Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to hold a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang this week.

Blinken made the remarks as Putin and Kim are scheduled to hold a summit in the North Korean capital on Wednesday (local time) amid growing concerns about security implications of their countries' deepening military cooperation.

"We'll continue to do everything we can to cut off the support that countries, like Iran and North Korea, are providing," the secretary said during a press conference after his meeting with North Atlantic Treaty Organization Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Washington.

Washington has revealed that the North provided Russia with more than 11,000 containers of munitions and related material and dozens of ballistic missiles for use in Ukraine.

Blinken reiterated that Russia is trying "in desperation" to develop and strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war in Ukraine, while criticizing China's support for Russia's defense industrial base and Iran's provision of drones to Russia.

"We are very much concerned about this because this is what's keeping the war going," the secretary said, accusing China of "fueling the biggest security threat to Europe as a whole since the end of the Cold War."

"The fastest way to end the war is for Putin to be disabused of the notion that he can outlast Ukraine and outlast all of Ukraine's supporters, but also if he knows that the fuel he needs for his war machine won't be there anymore," he added.

Stoltenberg pointed out that Putin's trip to the North "confirms the very close alignment between Russia and authoritarian states," and underscores that security is a "global" issue.

"What happens in Europe matters for Asia. What happens in Asia matters for us. And this is clearly demonstrated in Ukraine, where Iran, North Korea and China are propping up, fueling Russia's war aggression against Ukraine," he said.

"So this idea that we can divide security into regional theaters doesn't work anymore. Everything is intertwined, and therefore we need to address these challenges together."

As Putin arrived in the North, the White House reiterated concerns about military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.

"Deepening cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is a trend that should be of great concern to anyone interested in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, upholding the global nonproliferation regime, abiding by the U.N. Security Council resolutions and supporting the people of Ukraine as they defend for their freedom and their independence against Russia's aggression," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told a press briefing.

DPRK stands for the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

"This is something that we have been warning about for some time as the DPRK's provision of weapons to Russia has helped enable Russia's brutal war in Ukraine," she added.

Jean-Pierre also called attention to the summit statement that Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping issued last month.

"We noted that the Putin-Xi joint statement called for all sides to reaffirm that political and diplomatic means as the only way to resolve issues on the Korean Peninsula. We hope this is a message that Putin will convey to Kim in their discussion," she said.

"As we have said before, we don't believe any country should give Mr. Putin a platform to promote the war of aggression that we are currently seeing in Ukraine, and Russia, we believe, is blatantly violating the U.N. Charter and working to undermine the international system."

In a separate briefing, Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder criticized the North's weapons support for Russia, saying it has been able to help Russia "perpetuate" what he termed an illegal and unprovoked war against Ukrainian people.

"Our focus continues to be on promoting regional security and stability in the region as well as our extended deterrence efforts as it comes to supporting our ROK and Japanese allies," he said, referring to South Korea by its official name, the Republic of Korea.

Extended deterrence refers to the U.S.' commitment to using the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear, to defend its allies.

The planned summit between Kim and Putin is being carefully watched by Seoul, Washington and others as it could further accelerate their cooperation in defense and other areas.

Yuri Ushakov, Putin's foreign policy aide, has told Russia's news agency TASS that the summit may produce a treaty on a "comprehensive strategic partnership," a document likely to cement the bilateral partnership at a time of their isolation on the global stage. (Yonhap)
Russian President Vladimir Putin's rare visit to North Korea was shortened to a one-day trip, following his late arrival in Pyongyang early Wednesday morning.

Putin was initially scheduled to arrive late Tuesday for his first visit to the reclusive nation in 24 years, but the Kremlin announced after 2 a.m. Wednesday that he had landed in North Korea's capital, delayed by a prior stop in Yakutsk, a city in eastern Russia.

Before heading to North Korea, Putin met with regional Gov. Aisen Nikolayev and received briefings on various technology and defense-related projects. He also interacted with young professionals and local residents in Russia's Far East.

After completing the engagements, Putin departed for North Korea on his private jet around 9 to 10 p.m. Yakutsk time, which has no time difference from Pyongyang.

Putin is scheduled to attend an official banquet at noon and hold a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un afterward.

Following the summit, Putin is set to depart for Hanoi, Vietnam, late Wednesday.

Putin has a reputation for arriving late to summit meetings.

In 2014, Putin made German Chancellor Angela Merkel wait 4 hours and 15 minutes, and in 2018, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe waited for 2 hours and 30 minutes.

In 2016, he arrived 1 hour and 45 minutes late for a meeting with then President Park Geun-hye. In 2019, during the G20 summit, he was nearly 2 hours late for a meeting with then President Moon Jae-in.

Wednesday's visit came nine months after Kim held a summit with Putin in Russia's Far East in September. At the time, Putin arrived promptly at the summit site. (Yonhap)
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed "full support" Wednesday for Russia's war in Ukraine and pledged to strengthen strategic cooperation with Moscow as he held summit talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang amid deepening concerns about their military cooperation.

Kim said relations between the two countries are "entering a new period of prosperity," praising Russia's role in the global strategic balance and vowing to "strengthen strategic cooperation" with Russia, according to the Russian news agency TASS.

"The government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea ... expresses its full support and solidarity with the Russian government, Army and people in conducting the special military operation in Ukraine with a view to protecting sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity," Kim was quoted as saying.

Putin expressed gratitude to Kim for Pyongyang's support for Moscow's policy on Ukraine and said a new "fundamental document" has been prepared to serve as a basis for relations between the two countries amid expectations the two sides will sign a "comprehensive strategic partnership treaty."

Putin also expressed hope to hold the next summit with Kim in Moscow, TASS reported.

The two leaders met again nine months after they held a summit in Russia's Far East last September, as Russia, under international sanctions over its war with Ukraine, has been bolstering military and other cooperation with North Korea.

Putin arrived in North Korea early Wednesday on his first trip to the reclusive country in 24 years. Ahead of the summit, an official welcoming ceremony was held at Kim Il Sung Square in central Pyongyang.

At the summit, the two leaders are widely expected to discuss ways to upgrade their bilateral ties to a new level. Russia's TASS reported Tuesday that Putin ordered the signing of a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty with North Korea.

Since the Kim-Putin summit last year, the two nations have been bolstering military ties, with the North being accused of supplying Russia with ammunition for use in Moscow's war in Ukraine in exchange for aid and suspected technological assistance for its space program.

Experts said Putin's trip will likely pave the way for the two countries to deepen military cooperation beyond arms transactions while cementing their solidarity against the United States.

Analysts said Kim and Putin are expected to adopt a joint declaration that calls for both sides to elevate the level of military, security and economic cooperation but saw a low possibility of them clinching a treaty akin to a military alliance.

North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty of friendship and mutual assistance in 1961. The treaty included a provision for so-called automatic military intervention, under which if one side is under an armed attack, the other provides military troops and other aid without hesitation.

North Korea and Russia signed a new treaty of bilateral ties in 2000, but it did not contain such a provision as it centered on cooperation in the economy, science and culture.

Experts said North Korea and Russia are expected to highlight cooperation in the economic sector as any arms deals and military cooperation violate United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions banning Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs.

In an article published Tuesday by the Rodong Sinmun, the North's main newspaper, Putin vowed to build alternative systems for trade and settlements with North Korea that will not be controlled by the West and jointly resist "illegal and unilateral restrictions" in an apparent reference to international sanctions.

Experts said Russia is expected to assist North Korea's space development program in exchange for Pyongyang's arms supplies, but it is not likely to transfer sensitive weapons technology to Pyongyang.

In late May, North Korea's attempt to launch a military spy satellite ended in failure as a satellite-carrying rocket exploded right after liftoff. In November last year, North Korea successfully placed a spy satellite into orbit, and it has a plan to launch three more such satellites in 2024.

The two leaders could discuss the issue of North Korea's dispatch of its workers at the summit, experts said. The North has a desperate need to earn foreign currency due to international sanctions, while Russia has been facing a labor shortage amid its war with Ukraine. (Yonhap)
By KTimes

Foreign tourists who visited Seoul last year stayed an average six days and spent 2.84 million won ($2,058), the Seoul Tourism Organization said, Tuesday.

The survey, conducted from March to November 2023 on 1,600 respondents, revealed that tourists are now spending more time and money in the city compared to before the pandemic.

In 2019, the average stay was 5.1 days with spending at around 1.89 million won.

The increase in spending is attributed to a higher proportion of long-distance travelers from Europe and the U.S., as opposed to the previously dominant short-distance visits of Asian tourists.

Culinary experiences were a major attraction, with 97.4 percent of tourists engaging in food tourism. Popular tourist sites included palaces and historical sites (70.4 percent), landmarks and theme parks (54.6 percent) and parks, trails and resorts (49.3 percent).

Myeong-dong was the most visited area (85.9 percent), followed by Hongdae (52.8 percent) and Gangnam District (45.9 percent).

The satisfaction score for foreign tourists in Seoul has been on a steady rise, reaching 4.53 out of 5 last year, up from 4.34 in 2019 and 4.25 in 2018. The intention to revisit also increased to 4.61, compared to 4.39 in 2019.

This article is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.






The antitrust regulator launched an on-site inspection into a major lobby group for doctors Wednesday for allegedly forcing its members to join a walkout against the government's medical reform plan, officials said.

The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) sent inspectors to the office of the Korean Medical Association (KMA) in Seoul and conducted a probe regarding the KMA-led one-day walkout on Tuesday that involved community doctors and other medical staff, as well as a massive rally in Seoul, according to officials of the Fair Trade Commission (FTC).

The health ministry earlier this week referred the KMA to the regulator for its possible violation of the fair trade law by allegedly forcing its members to take part in the collective action.

Under the law, business associations are banned from unfairly interrupting the business activities of its members or restricting competition.

Any violation is subject to up to a fine of 1 billion won ($724,398) for the organization. Organization chiefs or other individuals in charge can face up to 200 million won in fines or three years in prison.

The medical community has been protesting the government's increase of the medical school admissions quota to address the shortage of doctors in the country.

Trainee doctors have walked off the job since late February, and medical professors serving as senior doctors at Seoul National University (SNU) hospitals began an indefinite walkout since Monday.

The KMA has threatened to hold an indefinite strike starting June 27 unless the government accepts its demands, including revisiting the quota hike decision.

The FTC refused to elaborate on details and simply vowed "a stern response to any violations."

The KMA lambasted the government for the probe, stressing that doctors joined Tuesday's strike voluntarily.

"The government is unduly wielding its power to suppress the medical community's voluntary and right expression of opinions against its unilateral policy push," the KMA said in a statement. (Yonhap)
Talks between Korea and the United States over an envisioned bilateral defense procurement agreement have faced an unexpected hurdle, a source said Tuesday, as U.S. lawmakers called for a review to ensure that such a pact will not negatively affect America's manufacturing and its workers.

Seoul and Washington have been in talks over a Reciprocal Defense Procurement (RDP) Agreement aimed at reducing defense trade barriers, but an ongoing Government Accountability Office (GAO) audit is feared to slow their negotiations, according to the source.

The audit came after Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA), top Democrat on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, and Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), senior member of Senate Democratic Leadership, urged an overall review of RDP agreements with foreign governments last month.

The two lawmakers sent a letter to White House Made in America Office's Director Livia Shmavonian on May 13 to urge the official to ensure that RDP agreements are fair for American workers and domestic manufacturing.

They highlighted that unlike other trade agreements or treaties, these agreements are negotiated by the Pentagon and are not subject to congressional approval.

"An unexpected hurdle has surfaced," the source told Yonhap News Agency.

The negotiations could pick up pace likely in August or September when the outcome of the GAO audit is expected to come.

Seoul has been eyeing the conclusion of the negotiations on the RDP agreement before the U.S. presidential election in November, but concerns have emerged that the negotiations could stretch into next year, the source said.

After a White House summit with Biden last April, Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said that the two sides agreed to accelerate discussions on reaching an RDP agreement.

During a key bilateral defense meeting in April, the two countries also said they agreed to enhance progress on the development of an RDP agreement  remarks that had boded well for the conclusion of the talks on the pact.

The Pentagon has concluded RDP agreements with 28 countries, including Britain, Australia, France, Germany, Israel, Italy and Japan,

The Joe Biden administration has proposed new RDP agreements with Korea, Brazil and India. (Yonhap)
South Korea has expressed deep concern over Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea and asked China to play a constructive role, saying tensions from strengthened military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang are not in Beijing's interest, the foreign ministry said.

South Korea conveyed the stance to China during their "two plus two" security talks led by First Vice Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong in Seoul on Tuesday, hours before Putin arrived in the North Korean capital for talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

"We expressed deep concern that Russian President Putin's visit to North Korea comes at a time when North Korea has escalated tensions on the Korean Peninsula with a series of provocations," the ministry said in a statement.

"We asked China to play a constructive role for peace, stability and denuclearization as Korean Peninsula tensions arising from the strengthening of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea go against China's interests," it said.

Putin and the North's leader were set to hold a summit in Pyongyang on Wednesday to discuss ways to upgrade their bilateral ties to a new level amid concerns about deepening military cooperation.

Russia and North Korea have been bolstering military ties, with the North being accused of supplying Russia with ammunition for use in Moscow's war in Ukraine in exchange for aid and suspected technological assistance for its space program.

Putin's trip to North Korea  the first in 24 years  came amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula due to the North's continued provocative acts, such as launches of trash-carrying balloons across the border and attempts to disrupt GPS signals around the South's northwestern border islands in recent weeks.

South Korean officials also asked China to ensure North Korean defectors in China are not forcibly returned and can go to their desired destinations, the ministry said.

As Pyongyang's key ally, China does not recognize North Korean defectors as refugees and regularly repatriates them to their home country, where they could face harsh punishment.

Last year, South Korean human rights groups said China forcibly sent hundreds of North Korean defectors from its northeastern border regions back to the North.

In response, China reaffirmed that its policy toward the Korean Peninsula remains unchanged and committed to playing a constructive role in resolving the peninsula's issues.

The ministry said the two sides also discussed issues on Ukraine and Sino-U.S. relations, though it did not provide any details.

South Korea and China held similar diplomatic and security meetings involving senior working-level officials in 2013 and 2015, but failed to do so afterward as bilateral relations were strained.

Holding the two plus two talks was part of the agreement reached between the two countries when President Yoon Suk Yeol met one-on-one with Chinese Premier Li Qiang for talks on the margins of the trilateral summit with Japan late last month. (Yonhap)
Strategic partnership should frame bilateral ties: Slovak envoy

By Kim Hyun-bin

Slovak Ambassador to Korea Marek Repovsky expressed his aim to invite President Yoon Suk Yeol to Slovakia during his tenure, which would mark the first Korean presidential visit to the European country, and enhance political and economic cooperation.

"My personal goal, and this is probably the key, is to bring President Yoon to Slovakia," Repovsky said during an interview with The Korea Times at the Embassy of Slovakia in Seoul, May 31.

Slovakia has not yet hosted a Korean president, although former Slovak President Andrej Kiska made an official visit to Korea for the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. During former President Moon Jae-ins term, there was almost a successful arrangement for a visit. Repovsky remains hopeful that Yoons visit will pave the way for a reciprocal visit by a Korean president, enhancing political dialogue and relations.

The ambassador also mentioned recent high-level diplomatic visits in early May, emphasizing their importance in strengthening bilateral relations.

We had the visit of the Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar, he said. This visit was significant as it marked the beginning of his tenure with the new government. It sent a strong signal to Korean interlocutors that we care about Korea and are ready to intensify our cooperation.

During his visit, Blanar met with several key figures, including the prime minister, the unification minister and the foreign minister, to discuss various issues, including the situation on the Korean Peninsula. He also met with business leaders and opened an honorary consulate in Ulsan, reflecting Slovakias interest in deepening economic ties with Koreas industrial regions.

Reflecting on Korea's impressive economic achievements, Repovsky praised the nation's resilience and growth.

I really admire the Korean nation for what they have achieved over the past 60 to 70 years, he said. Despite the challenging security environment on the Korean Peninsula, Korea has risen from a GDP similar to Angola in the 1960s to being among the top economies in the world. This is something we should learn from.

Economic exchanges

He highlighted that most foreign embassies in Korea have a common goal of expanding economic cooperation with Asias fourth-largest economy.

"Probably the majority, if not all, European embassies here, our focus is also on economic cooperation. This is the biggest chunk of our interests here in Korea," Repovsky said. "The first goal was economic cooperation, the second was political and the third, which I'd like to focus more on, is bringing more Koreans to visit Slovakia."

Slovakia has notably attracted significant Korean investments over the years, a trend that began in 2004 with Kia Motors.

"We were very lucky at that time, you know, that several Korean companies started to look to invest abroad, and we attracted Kia to Slovakia."

This initial investment by Kia spurred further interest from other Korean companies, establishing a robust economic relationship.

"Since then, we are now lucky to host up to 100 Korean companies in Slovakia, mostly in the automobile sector," he added. "Slovakia produces the biggest number of cars per capita in the world. We have five automobile factories including Volkswagen, PSA Citroen, Land Rover, Kia and soon Volvo."

Repovsky also outlined Slovakias plans to evolve from an assembly industry to one focused on research and development (R&D), particularly in the green economy sector.

"We would like to use the process of changing from combustion engines to electric vehicles, which requires investments in R&D, mobility and the green economy."

Political cooperation

While economic ties are strong, Repovsky expressed a desire to enhance political cooperation.

"We have a huge pillar of economic cooperation, but political engagement and dialogue are somehow lagging behind," he said. The ambassador aims to create a framework for a strategic partnership that encompasses economic, political, cultural and other fields of cooperation.

"My minister spoke with Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul about a strategic partnership, and we would like to discuss this at the next opportunity. This strategic partnership should frame our relations, highlighting the depth and width of our economic cooperation," he said.

The ambassador underscored the importance of this partnership, noting that Slovakia has similar arrangements with countries like the United States and Germany.

Repovsky also sees potential in sectors beyond the automotive industry.

"What we would like to focus on more is the creation of Slovakia as an R&D investment hub, particularly in robotics. Slovakia ranks among the top 20 countries globally for the number of robots installed in the production industry. " he said. "We are partnering with Yonsei University and our three technical universities in Slovakia to create a consortium dedicated to robotics."

Moreover, he mentioned potential collaborations in medical robotics and other industries.

Despite the robust economic relationship, Slovakia faces a trade imbalance with Korea, a gap the ambassador aims to narrow during his tenure.

"In 2022, imports from Korea to Slovakia were $6 billion, while exports from Slovakia to Korea were around $450 million," Repovsky said.

To address this, he emphasized the importance of introducing Slovak products to the Korean market, including honey and wine.

"We would like to bring more attention to Slovak products," he added.

The ambassador also highlighted innovative Slovak companies which have niche products that could resonate well in the Korean market.

In terms of challenges, Repovsky acknowledged the rigorous standards of Korean authorities for imported products.

"It's a process that needs to be done, but sometimes we face very extensive questions about our products," he said.

Addressing the challenge of travel logistics, Repovsky spoke about efforts to facilitate more direct travel routes between Korea and Slovakia.

"I even spoke to the CEO of Korean Air about utilizing their planes to bring more Koreans to Slovakia," he said. "There's no direct flight currently, but we have international airports in Slovakia and Vienna International Airport, which is very close to Bratislava, can also be used."

Tourism statistics, however, show room for growth.

"Overall, less than 1 percent of tourists coming to Slovakia are from Korea," Repovsky said. "In 2022, we had about 6,500 Korean tourists, a figure that we're working hard to increase."

On the topic of cultural exchange, Repovsky was enthusiastic, describing it as "one of the key instruments for diplomats." He expressed a desire to expand cultural presentations, such as bringing Slovak jazz musicians to Korea and showcasing Slovak films at the Busan International Film Festival.

"These activities require resources, which can be a stumbling block," he admitted. "We have roughly 80 embassies worldwide, each asking for more funds to bring musicians and artists to their respective countries."

On a lighter note, Repovsky expressed his fondness for Korean cuisine, particularly kimchi.

Please continue to produce kimchi, he said. I like kimchi personally. Even while Im here in Korea, Im eating kimchi with Slovak dishes. This is your tangible product and you should be proud of that.
The first batch of P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft is set to arrive in South Korea on Wednesday, the Navy said, with the multi-mission assets expected to strengthen South Korea's anti-submarine capabilities against North Korean threats.

Three Boeing P-8A aircraft are scheduled to arrive at the Naval Air Command in Pohang, 262 kilometers southeast of Seoul, Wednesday afternoon, which will be followed by the delivery of another three P-8A aircraft on June 30, according to the Navy.

The P-8A is capable of conducting an array of missions, including anti-submarine, anti-surface, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations. Its maximum speed is 907 kilometers per hour, compared with 749 kilometers per hour of P-3 maritime surveillance aircraft currently in operation.

It is armed with anti-ship guided missiles and torpedoes that can strike surface targets and submarines, as well as around 120 sonobuoys that can detect, identify and track enemy submarines, according to the Navy.

"The P-8A has made it possible for the Navy not only to enhance its anti-submarine capabilities against North Korean submarines but also to carry out strengthened maritime aviation operations through swift response and expanded surveillance capabilities," the Navy said in a release.

The Navy also expected the introduction of the P-8A to enhance interoperability in joint maritime aviation operations with the U.S. Navy, which also operates the maritime patrol aircraft.

The Navy plans to deploy the P-8A next year following a yearlong training and evaluation of its operational capabilities. (Yonhap)
Korean defense company Hyundai Rotem could sign a deal in September to supply additional K2 tanks to Poland, the chief of Seoul's arms procurement agency has said.

In August 2022, Hyundai Rotem clinched an executive contract worth 4.49 trillion won ($3.25 billion) with the Polish armament agency to supply Poland with an initial batch of 180 units, a month after signing the "framework" contract for 1,000 K2 tanks.

The two sides have yet to sign a contract for the remaining units amid issues with the deal's financing.

"There is a high possibility that the second executive contract for the K2 tank exports will be signed on the occasion of the International Defense Industry Exhibition in Poland this September," Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Minister Seok Jong-gun told Korean reporters on the sidelines of the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris on Tuesday.

Seok said the Korean government is taking part in the negotiations "with confidence" and aims to clinch the second executive contract when the defense exhibition in Poland takes place this year.

Seoul and Warsaw have deepened defense industry ties in recent years since Poland's decision to buy major Korean weapons systems in 2022.

In addition to the K-2 deal, Korean companies secured major deals to supply K9 self-propelled howitzers, FA-50 light attack aircraft and Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers to Poland. (Yonhap)
Reports of NK soldiers in Ukraine may show Russia's 'profound' desperation: US official
Additional export deal on K2 tanks to Poland likely in September

By Nam Hyun-woo

Korea will export K9 self-propelled howitzers worth $920 million to Romania, adding the Eastern European nation as the 10th country on contract for the weapon.

The deal was finalized during a meeting between Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik and his Romanian counterpart Angel Tilvar in Romania. Tilvar conveyed Romanias decision to purchase the K9 howitzers during their talks, and Shin expressed his gratitude for the decision, according to Shins office.

I can promise Korea will be the optimal partner for Romanias ongoing military modernization project, Shin was quoted as saying.

Korea will not remain at selling weapons but will enhance various defense and defense industry cooperation (with Romania), including joint production, cross-training between operational units and personnel exchanges.

The deal, valued at $920 million, marks the biggest of Romanias arms procurement projects in seven years and a follow-up outcome of a summit between President Yoon Suk Yeol and Romanian President Klaus Iohannis in Seoul in April.

Details of the contract remain under wraps, but earlier reports suggested that the Romanian military intends to acquire 54 K9 howitzers from the K9s manufacturer, Hanwha Aerospace, as part of the countrys efforts to beef up its artillery strength.

The K9 has been a lead-off of Korea's defense exports in recent years. Renowned for its advanced artillery capabilities and robust performance in various combat scenarios, it is now on contract with nine countries including Australia, Norway, Finland, Egypt and Poland  and Romania will be the 10th country.

During the ministerial talk, Shin also said that "true peace can only be maintained when it is backed by strong power," and he hopes "both countries can fulfill their roles as bulwarks in protecting freedom and peace in Asia and Europe."

Along with the K9 howitzers, Korea's home-developed K2 will likely see additional export deals in the near future.

"Chances are high that the second executive contract for the K2 tank exports will be signed on the occasion of the International Defense Industry Exhibition in Poland this September," Defense Acquisition Program Administration Minister Seok Jong-gun told Korean reporters on the sidelines of the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris, Tuesday.

In 2022, the tank's manufacturer, Hyundai Rotem, signed a framework contract for exporting 1,000 K2s to Poland and clinched a $3.25 billion executive contract to supply an initial batch of 180 tanks.

The two sides have yet to sign an additional executive contract for the remaining 820 tanks, and Seok's comments appear to be affecting the remainder.

"To sign the second executive contract within this year, government-level negotiations are taking place in a prudent manner," Seok said. "And our goal is to sign the contract during the September event."




Prosecutors on Wednesday questioned an aide to first lady Kim Keon Hee as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations that she illegally received a luxury bag gift from a Korean American pastor.

The Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office questioned the aide surnamed Cho as a witness, marking the first time a presidential official has been questioned as part of the investigation into allegations that Kim received a Dior handbag worth 3 million won ($2,172) from the pastor, Choi Jae-young, at her office in Seoul in September 2022.

Cho is known as one of the closest aides to the first lady, having served her almost since President Yoon Suk Yeol's inauguration.

Choi has claimed that a secretary to Kim referred him to Cho to discuss his request regarding the future burial of former Korean American House Rep. Jay Chang Joon Kim at a South Korean national cemetery. The request, he said, was not fulfilled because Kim did not meet the requirements for a national cemetery burial.

During Wednesday's questioning, prosecutors were expected to focus on whether Kim instructed Cho to handle Choi's request and whether she improperly interfered in the affairs of the patriots and veterans affairs ministry in favor of the pastor.

These suspicions, if confirmed, could constitute bribery and abuse of authority.

Choi and officials of Voice of Seoul, a news outlet that published a hidden camera video of the Choi-Kim meeting, are also under prosecution investigation on suspicions of secretly filming the video.

Wednesday's questioning is expected to expand the investigation to include other aides to the first lady. Depending on the results, prosecutors are expected to review whether to question the first lady herself and, if determined necessary, decide how and when it would take place. (Yonhap)
A girl statue symbolizing the victims of Japan's wartime sexual slavery, euphemistically called "comfort women," will be erected in Italy for the first time, a local activist group said Wednesday.

The statue, dubbed a Statue of Peace or comfort women statue, will be unveiled to the public in Stintino, a small city on the Italian island of Sardinia, at 11 a.m. (local time) on Saturday, according to the Korean Council for Justice and Remembrance for the Issues of Military Sexual Slavery.

The Stintino statue will be the second to be installed on public land in Europe after the first one set up in Berlin, Germany, in 2020, the council said, noting it will also be the 14th statue to be erected overseas after the first one installed in Glendale, California, in 2013.

The statue's location is on a beach about 200 meters from Stintino's city hall, the council said, adding the area is visited by many tourists.

The council said it proposed the construction of the statue to the Italian city in December last year, and the mayor immediately welcomed the proposal.

The statue symbolizes 200,000 Asian women, mostly Koreans, who were forcibly sent to front-line brothels to work as sex slaves for Japanese troops during World War II. The sexual slavery victims are one of the many thorny issues stemming from the 1910-45 period, when Korea was a Japanese colony. (Yonhap)
Main opposition Democratic Party of Korea leader Lee Jae-myung said Wednesday his party will never cooperate with the government's push to reform the 52-hour workweek system, stressing that a four-day workweek is a global trend.

"The presidential office has called for more flexibility in the 52-hour workweek system, and the ruling party has been seeking to amend the law," Lee said at a meeting of the party's leadership. "The Democratic Party of Korea will never cooperate in revising such a law that is for the worse."

Stressing that the four-day workweek is an "unavoidable global trend," Lee said the "age of long hours of labor" is no longer viable.

Lee's remark comes after Choo Kyung-ho, floor leader of the ruling People Power Party, said his party will "push for law amendments to increase flexibility in the 52-hour workweek system" earlier this week.

The Yoon Suk Yeol government has been seeking to bring more flexibility into the weekly work hours system introduced in 2018, under which the cap is 52 hours per week.

The government had proposed a reform measure in March last year, allowing the weekly cap to be raised to 69 hours, but later withdraw it after drawing strong backlash from younger workers that it could force them to overwork. (Yonhap)
President Yoon Suk Yeol declared Wednesday that Korea is in a "demographic national emergency" due to its declining population, vowing to make all-out efforts to tackle the country's ultralow birthrate.

Yoon made the remark during a meeting of the presidential committee on the low birthrate and aging population amid grim prospects and warnings that Korea's population could ultimately become extinct unless the trend is reversed.

"Today, I officially declare a demographic national emergency. We will activate a pan-government comprehensive response system until the low birthrate issue is overcome," Yoon said during the meeting held at a child care center in HD Hyundai's R&D Center in Seongnam, south of Seoul.

Korea's total fertility rate  the average number of children a woman bears in her lifetime  fell to a fresh low of 0.72 in 2023, well below the replacement level of 2.1 needed to maintain the country's population at 51 million.

The government has tried various incentives to help entice families to have children over the past decade, but a number of factors, including expensive housing prices, education costs and long working hours, have made young people reluctant to start families and have babies.

Yoon outlined three main areas focused on balancing work and life, improving child care and providing better housing to address the complex issues.

The measures include increasing parental leave allowances and extending leave for fathers, aiming to raise the usage rate of paternity leave from the current 6.8 percent to 50 percent during Yoon's term.

They also include implementing flexible work hours, extending the age limit for reduced working hours for parents of young children and providing subsidies for employers who hire temporary replacements for employees on parental leave.

Yoon also vowed to increase support for child care and expand after-school programs at elementary schools to ease the educational burden on parents.

Households with newborns will be given priority in housing allocations and low-interest loans for home purchases to encourage more newlywed couples to have babies. Additionally, tax benefits for households with children will be expanded.

To ensure the implementation of the measures, Yoon said a new ministry, tentatively named the Ministry of Population Strategy Planning, will be established, and the minister will serve as the deputy prime minister for social affairs.

The ministry will be in charge of crafting strategies concerning population issues, including the low birthrate, the aging society and immigration policies, with the authority to review budgets and consult with provincial governments on related projects.

Yoon asked for the National Assembly's cooperation to establish the envisioned ministry as soon as possible. (Yonhap)
A civic group on Wednesday filed an objection with the state anti-corruption agency over its decision to drop its inquiry into a luxury bag scandal involving first lady Kim Keon Hee.

The People's Solidarity for Participatory Democracy called on the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission to reexamine the case, saying many people were outraged at the decision.

The luxury bag scandal has come to the fore after a video surfaced last year of the first lady receiving the Dior handbag, valued at around 3 million won ($2,171), from a Korean American pastor armed with a hidden camera in September 2022.

The anti-corruption commission began the inquiry into the scandal after a major civic group filed a complaint against Yoon, the first lady and the pastor in December on charges of violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act.

After nearly six months of deliberation, the commission decided to close the case last week, citing the absence of rules on punishing a public official's spouse.

It also claimed that the luxury bag had no relevance to Yoon's official duties, and a gift from the pastor, who is a foreigner, should be classified as presidential records, thereby carrying no obligation to report on it.

However, the civic group countered that the first lady could still be subject to disciplinary measures under relevant law that punishes people for receiving money or interest in return for mediating and facilitating favors related to the duties of a public official.

The group also claimed that it is hard to believe that the gift was unrelated to the official duties of the president because the pastor had asked the first lady for favors in return for the gift. (Yonhap)
By Choe Chong-dae

I am fascinated by the Philippines in many ways. I have fond memories of the Philippines, as I first encountered a Filipino lady, Cora Swaz, who served as a professor at the University of Maryland Global Campus at the 8th U.S. Army Base in Seoul's Yongsan District in the mid-1960s.

Swaz visited my old house in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, with her American friend and stayed with my family for a week when I was a middle school student. Her visit left a lasting impression on me.

During that time, the Philippines boasted a robust economy in Southeast Asia, but subsequent decades saw a divergence due to various challenges. This resulted in slower economic growth compared to its neighboring countries, which experienced rapid development and industrialization.

Notably, the Jangchung Gymnasium in Seoul, which opened in February 1963, was repurposed for civilian use when Korean architect Kim Jong-su was commissioned to design a multi-purpose, circular, steel-frame facility. It was built by a Philippine engineering firm because Korea did not yet have the necessary expertise then.

2024 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and the Philippines. Accordingly, a commemorative reception was held in Seoul on June 11, 2024, hosted by Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega, the Philippines' ambassador to Korea.

Remarkably, Carlos Romulo (1899-1985), a former foreign minister of the Philippines, advocated for Korea during U.S.-Soviet tensions over its establishing independent government. His efforts led to a United Nations resolution on Oct. 30, 1947, to send a monitoring committee to South Korea. As president of the U.N. General Assembly in 1949 and 1950, Romulo successfully passed the U.N. military participation bill despite Soviet opposition during the Korean War. Under his influence, the Philippines became the third country to dispatch troops to Korea after the United States and Britain.

I have had the pleasure of establishing a close friendship with Nicanor Jimenez, a Korean War veteran who served as the ambassador of the Philippines to Korea in the early 1980s. Widely acclaimed for his nobility and courage, he ably commanded the renowned 14th BCT of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea during the Korean War.

Jimenez was an enthusiastic admirer of Korean culture, art and history. While in Korea, he attended some of my family's events, including my brother's ceramic art exhibition and invited me to many receptions at his residence. He further solidified the bond between Korea and the Philippines. Despite decades passing since my encounters with Swaz and Jimenez, the fond memories remain cherished.

In addition, I've had the privilege of establishing close connections with Dr. Corazon S. Alvina, who served as director of the National Museum of the Philippines from 2001 to 2010.

I had the pleasure of visiting the National Museum of Ethnology in Leiden, Netherlands, at the invitation of its museum director, Steven Engelsman, alongside the director Alvina.

Furthermore, I had the opportunity to visit Quai Branly Museum in Paris with Engelsman and the Philippines' museum director Alvina, at the invitation of Stephan Martin, president of Quai Branly Museum, in 2007.

My encounter with Alvina, the director, reminded me of my acquaintance from the Philippines, Dr. Erlinda Burton, a prominent anthropologist who had been teaching in the U.S. Alvina had a close friendship with Erlinda. In 1979, I traveled with Erlinda and her husband, Burton, a Fulbright professor in Korea, to Gyeongju.

In addition, my visit to Concepcion, Iloilo, in 2019, with delegates of the Korea Heritage Society, aimed to strengthen cultural exchanges between our nations. The warm reception, highlighted by a mesmerizing Korean-Filipino musical concert, emphasized the enduring friendship between Korea and the Philippines.

This longstanding friendship with the Philippines has flourished and continues to thrive today through Her Excellency Maria Theresa Dizon-De Vega, the current ambassador of the Philippines to Korea.

Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and founding director of the Korean-Swedish Association.
By John Carlson

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned, Humanity is on a knifes edge. The risk of a nuclear weapon being used has reached heights not seen since the Cold War. Urgent action is needed to reduce the risk of nuclear war and establish a process to achieve nuclear disarmament.

Nuclear disarmament is not an unrealistic aspiration. Rather, it is unrealistic to believe our luck in avoiding nuclear war can last indefinitely. Over the years, there have been several close calls where mistakes or malfunctions nearly led to nuclear war. A pathway to eliminating nuclear weapons, with urgent risk reduction steps, is imperative for human survival.

As President Reagan recognized in 1984, a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. In its 1996 advisory opinion on the legality of nuclear weapons, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) found that the indiscriminate nature, destructive force and environmental consequences of nuclear weapons mean their use would inevitably violate international humanitarian law. In a nuclear war, not only cant civilian populations in the warring countries be protected, but catastrophic consequences, including radioactive fallout and nuclear winter effects, cannot be limited to those countries. Nuclear war presents a global threat against which all countries have the right to be protected.

While the ICJ could not conclude whether the threat or use of nuclear weapons could be lawful in an extreme case of self-defense, it emphasized that any use of such weapons must comply with international law, a requirement that seems impossible to meet. The ICJ considered that nuclear deterrence, based on the threat of retaliation, presents an irreconcilable conundrum. Just as a nuclear attack would inevitably violate international humanitarian law, so too would nuclear retaliation. The ICJ concluded that the only way to resolve this conundrum is through nuclear disarmament.

The ICJ stressed that all countries have the obligation to pursue negotiations leading to nuclear disarmament. This is a specific obligation for NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) parties  190 countries, including the five recognized nuclear-weapon states such as the United States, Britain, U.K., France and China  and a general international law obligation applying to the four non-NPT, nuclear-armed countries like India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel.

It is reprehensible that the nuclear-armed countries are ignoring the obligation to pursue nuclear disarmament. As permanent members of the Security Council, the NPT nuclear-weapon states have a particular responsibility to uphold international law. There is a lack of will and vision concerning disarmament, reflecting the influence of those whose careers are based on nuclear weapons.

The world cannot afford to continue its inaction on nuclear disarmament. Inspiration can be drawn from the 1985 Reagan-Gorbachev Reykjavik Summit, which showed that it is within reach for world leaders to agree on a timetable for the elimination of nuclear weapons. While the summit did not achieve this goal, it did lead to major arms reduction agreements.

What can be done? Nuclear disarmament is a huge challenge, but seemingly intractable problems can be solved by breaking the issues into discrete steps on which progress can be made. Addressing specific issues can reduce risks and contribute to a positive atmosphere in which further progress is possible. Governments must be pressed to establish a framework for doing this.

Space does not allow for a detailed elaboration of issues and steps here, but an outline follows. First, urgent action is needed on risk and tension reduction steps. These include communication channels and hotlines, de-alerting  taking weapons off launch-on-warning status, limiting the circumstances in which nuclear weapons might be used  agreement to no first use, proposed by China, would be a major advance, and strengthening national controls on authority to use nuclear weapons  the fate of the world must not be left in the hands of one or two individuals.

Another essential area is the revival of arms control negotiations and the development of new arms control agreements. This would involve setting limits on the types and numbers of nuclear weapons and related delivery systems. One important aspect would be the elimination of so-called tactical nuclear weapons. A further area of work would involve verification, transparency and confidence-building arrangements.

A process of ongoing engagement is needed, not only on arms control and disarmament but on security issues more broadly. Engagement can clarify differences, improve mutual understanding, identify common ground, find solutions and build trust. The emphasis should be on proactive diplomacy and dialogue. New forums will be required, at leadership and working levels, and possibly regional as well as global. These must be focused on outcomes and not be paralyzed by political differences, as happened with the Conference on Disarmament.

Middle powers such as South Korea and Australia should work together to persuade the nuclear-weapon states that the actions outlined here are essential for international security and their own national security.

John Carlson AM is a former senior Australian government official, and was director general of the Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office from 1989 to 2010. He is a non-resident senior fellow with the Vienna Center for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation, and a member of the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network for Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Disarmament (APLN). This article is published in cooperation with the APLN (www.apln.network).
Shipbuilder recognized for supporting working parents

By Park Jae-hyuk

Employees at HD Hyundai were taken by surprise on Wednesday when bodyguards of President Yoon Suk Yeol made an unannounced visit to the company's headquarters building in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. They were there to provide security as the Korean leader presided over a meeting of the Presidential Committee on Ageing Society and Population Policy.

Although Yoon and his predecessors have visited many companies to promote the growth of each industry, it was unusual for a private enterprise to become the venue of a presidential meeting for population policies.

The main reason behind Yoons surprise visit was HD Hyundais in-house day care center named Dream Boat.

Before the committee meeting, the president looked around Dream Boat with HD Hyundai Chairman Kwon Oh-gap, Vice Chairman Chung Ki-sun and Committee Vice Chairman Joo Hyung-hwan, to encourage the day care centers teachers. Yoon also played with the children at the facility.

Since the shipbuilding giant opened Dream Boat in March 2023 inside its new headquarters building, the day care center has set an example for companies fighting the worlds lowest birth rate. The facility provides free care for employees' children aged 5 and under from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., accommodating parents who opt for flexible work schedules. Additionally, it offers free organic meals four times a day.

The company provides financial support to employees whose children attend other daycare centers.

In addition, HD Hyundai vowed last December to double the employment of female employees by 2030 and allow them to take up to six months of leave before and after their children start going to elementary schools. For pregnant employees and those who give birth, the company also implemented additional holidays and cash bonuses.

Read More Korean companies expand day care facilities for employees' kids





With more women joining the workforce and corporate culture prioritizing a work-life balance, we will make a company that more people want to work for and that allows more people to demonstrate their competence, the HD Hyundai vice chairman said at that time.

As the father of two children, the vice chairman reportedly proposed the additional maternity leave for employees whose children start going to elementary schools, after his meeting with working mothers at the company.
By Baek Byung-yeul

Major global oil companies are expressing interest in participating in an oil and gas field development project in the East Sea, where the government estimates up to 14 billion barrels of gas and oil reserves are buried, according to Kim Dong-sub, CEO of the Korea National Oil Corp. (KNOC), Wednesday.

"Even before KNOC sent out business flyers, several major global oil companies had already expressed interest. As a result, we plan to hold business briefings for these companies," Kim said during a press conference in Sejong.

KNOC is a state-run company responsible for overseeing oil and gas field operations.

On June 3, President Yoon Suk Yeol announced after an expert analysis that there is a possibility of at least 3.5 billion barrels to a maximum of 14 billion barrels of oil and gas buried under Yeongil Bay in the East Sea, off the coast of Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province.

KNOC and the government plan to conduct the first exploratory drilling of the potential gas and oil field starting in December. This process is anticipated to last around four months and cost approximately 100 billion won ($72.4 million). Following the exploratory drilling, the government intends to disclose information in the first half of 2025 regarding the presence of oil and gas reserves and the specific quantities discovered.

The government and the oil corporation believe that the participation of major global oil companies, equipped with extensive development experience and financial resources, is essential. This is because Korea lacks technical expertise in developing deep-sea oil and gas resources.

"In order for our country to take the lead in this project, we are inducing the participation of many companies. We require companies with substantial experience in deep-sea exploration, as we currently lack significant expertise in this area," Kim said.

The CEO said that the process of attracting investment starts with sending an official business flyer, and entering into a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) with interested companies to grant them access to data on the potential gas and oil field for approximately one to two months. Subsequently, it takes an additional two months to select a preferred bidder and negotiate a contract, culminating in the signing of a deal.

Kim added that in early May, KNOC signed an NDA with one major oil company and proceeded to share some data. Including this company, a total of five companies have expressed their intention to participate in the project.

Based on his remarks and the investment attraction procedure outlined, the first exploratory drilling scheduled for December is anticipated to be conducted by the government and KNOC independently, without initial investment from overseas major companies.

The government plans to undertake necessary procedures, such as delineating mining areas, before seeking investment from overseas companies.

"Our country's current systems were not designed with the assumption of large-scale natural resources. Therefore, developing under these systems could lead to a situation where companies with overseas investments receive unilateral benefits," Ahn Duk-geun, minister of Trade, Industry and Energy told reporters, Monday. So it is necessary to promptly and rationally reorganize the domestic systems."
By Lee Min-hyung

SK Group has been escalating its high-stakes clash against an appellate court over a recent ruling on a divorce settlement lawsuit between the group's Chairman Chey Tae-won and his estranged ex-wife Roh So-young, following the court's unprecedented correction of an error in its verdict, according to industry watchers, Wednesday.

Even after admitting to the mistake, the Seoul High Court upheld its ruling that Chey should pay 1.38 trillion won ($1 billion) in property division to Roh, citing her contribution to the group's stock growth.

The court also released a rare documented explanation on its calculation error while valuating the stock price of Daehan Telecom, the predecessor of SK C&C.

In 1988, Chey married Roh, the daughter of the late former President Roh Tae-woo. The court said Roh and his family "intangibly contributed" to helping Chey accumulate wealth by supporting SK Group's growth over the past three decades.

SK acquired Daehan Telecom in 1994 and changed its corporate name to SK C&C in 1998. The company was merged with SK Inc. in 2015. SK Inc. is the group's holding firm, and Chey is the largest shareholder with a stake of 17.73 percent in the firm. This amounts to around 2.2 trillion won ($1.59 billion).

The court pointed out the overall history of SK Group's growth was driven by its back-scratching alliance with the 1988-93 Roh Tae-woo administration. This is why it ruled Chey should divide a considerable amount of his wealth with Roh, the court ruled.

But SK Group said that Chey's stakes in SK Inc. should not be subject to property division, as they were inherited by his father, former SK Chairman Chey Jong-hyun, in 1994.

Contribution to SK's stock growth

The stake of Chey and his father's contribution to the growth of SK C&C are causing a major controversy surrounding the ongoing legal battle.

Chey said the firm's stock value rose by 125 times under the leadership of his father between 1994 and 1998. It also went on to grow 35.6 times under the son's leadership between 1998 and 2009 when it went public, according to SK.

The court rejected Chey's claim, saying that he had himself contributed to the firm's stock growth of 160 times between 1998 and 2024. Under the documented explanation, the court extended the timeline to 2024.

SK Group also immediately raised doubts over why the period was adjusted, even if the court stated that the marriage relationship between Chey and Roh broke down in 2019.

The court explained that as Chey still holds control of the group and continues his management activities, the timeline should change to include 2024.

"Chey did not end his management acts in 2009 but continues doing so," the court said in the documented explanation. "Chey's contribution to the group's stock growth is bigger than that of his father. The late former President Roh Tae-woo can also be seen to have contributed to the stock growth of the group."

SK Group, however, demanded further explanation over what the firm calls an "illogical" correction of the calculation.

"The court said their marriage came to an end in 2019 but recalculated Chey's contribution to the stock growth by extending the timeline to 2024," a legal representative of Chey said.

Property division ratio

The court maintained its order that Chey should give 35 percent of his assets to Roh in the property division, as Roh's father contributed to the growth of SK Group.

SK Group claims this does not make sense, as Chey's contribution to its stock growth is smaller than that of his father. If the Supreme Court sides with Chey, then the portion of the property division could also change, according to SK Group.

SK Group reiterated its plan to correct what it considers an unacceptable calculation of Chey's contribution to the firm's stock growth.

Rumors of slush fund

Chey also faces suspicion of having received slush funds from the former president. SK Group is rumored to have achieved solid growth after receiving illegal slush funds worth 30 billion won from the late Roh.

SK denied the rumors, saying that the relationship with the former president actually hindered its additional growth.

SK Supex Council President Lee Hyung-hee said recently that the rumor ended up tainting the firm's legacy and pride of the group's employees.

"The ball is in the Supreme Court, which has to set a specific legal standard regarding a similar case, as more and more companies will be mired in such controversies," said Choi June-sun, professor emeritus at Sungkyungkwan University Law School.
Myanmar authorities arrested 22 people for marking the birthday of imprisoned democracy figurehead Aung San Suu Kyi, local media reported, Wednesday.

Police in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, arrested 22 people who had posted pictures of themselves wearing flowers in their hair  long a signature Suu Kyi look  Eleven Media reported, citing an anonymous official.

Other local media said around a dozen had been arrested in the central Myanmar city for wearing flowers or praying with them in public.

A prominent pro-junta Telegram account posted several photos claiming to show those arrested, including one showing five people with their legs placed in stocks.

Suu Kyi, who turned 79 on Wednesday, has been detained by the military since it toppled her government and seized power in 2021.

The coup and subsequent crackdown on dissent have sparked a widespread armed uprising that the military is struggling to crush.

The junta has rebuffed numerous requests by foreign leaders and diplomats to meet Nobel laureate Suu Kyi, who has reportedly suffered health problems during more than three years in detention.

Suu Kyi's only known encounter with a foreign envoy since the coup came in July last year, when then-Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai said he had met her for more than an hour.

Suu Kyi is serving a 27-year sentence imposed by a junta court after a trial condemned by rights groups as a sham to shut her out of politics.

Her son told AFP in February she was in "strong spirits" after receiving a letter from her  their first communication since she was detained in the coup. (AFP)
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Vietnam early on Thursday for talks with the country's Communist leaders on the final stop of his two-nation tour of Asia after concluding a defence pact with North Korea.

Putin's aircraft touched down at Hanoi's airport, where he was met on a red carpet by Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha and top party diplomat Le Hoai Trung.

In an opinion piece timed for his visit, Putin applauded the Southeast Asian Communist-ruled country for supporting "a pragmatic way to solve the crisis" in Ukraine.

Vietnam, which officially pursues a neutral foreign policy it calls "bamboo diplomacy" in its relations with world powers, has abstained from condemning Russia's attack on Ukraine, a stance that Western countries view as too close to the Kremlin

As well as praising Vietnam for its "balanced" stance on the Ukraine war, Putin listed progress on payments, energy and trade between the countries in the article published in Vietnam's Communist Party newspaper Nhan Dan.

Although both North Korea and Russia face international isolation, Vietnam has built careful alliances with the United States and the European Union.

"President Putin's visit to North Korea and Vietnam is to demonstrate that Western attempts to isolate Russia are not working and that Russia has partners in Asia," said Carl Thayer, an expert on Vietnam security at the Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra.

Russia was hit with U.S.-led Western sanctions after it invaded Ukraine in February 2022 in what Moscow calls a "special military operation". In March 2023, the Hague-based International Criminal Court's issued an arrest warrant for Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine, charges he denies.

Neither Vietnam nor Russia are members of the ICC.

The Southeast Asian country will be the third nation Putin has visited, after China and North Korea, since he was sworn in for a fifth term in May.

Vietnam has been gearing up for a full state welcome for Putin, his first visit since 2017 and his fifth in total.

Putin is due to meet Communist Party leader Nguyen Phu Trong, state President To Lam and Prime Minster Pham Minh Chinh.

The Russian leader will also attend wreath laying ceremonies, including at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, housing the embalmed corpse of Vietnam's founding leader.

The countries have historically close ties and shared Communist roots. Tens of thousands of cadres studied in the former Soviet Union during the Cold War, including the current head of Vietnam's Communist Party Trong.

"President Vladimir Putin is a person who has made many contributions to Vietnam-Russia relations. He always has good feelings and concern for Vietnam and values relationships with Vietnam's senior leaders," Ministry of Defence newspaper Quan Doi Nhan Dan said in an article.

Key partner the United States, which upgraded diplomatic relations with Hanoi last year and is Vietnam's top export market, opposed Putin's visit.

"No country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalise his atrocities," a spokesperson for the U.S. embassy in Hanoi said this week.

Russia has historically been Vietnam's major military supplier, so any potential arms deals will be closely watched.

Putin is also expected to announce agreements in sectors including trade, investment, technology and education, two officials told Reuters this week, although that was subject to change. (Reuters)
China's President Xi Jinping has vowed to boost his crackdown on corruption and enhance loyalty within the armed forces, state media reported Wednesday.

Xi has waged an unrelenting crackdown on deep-seated corruption since coming to power a decade ago, a campaign critics say is a tool to purge political rivals.

China's former defence minister Li Shangfu was sacked abruptly last year in unexplained circumstances and replaced weeks later by the incumbent Dong Jun.

Xi addressed China's top brass on Monday at a meeting of the Central Military Commission in the northwestern city of Yan'an, state broadcaster CCTV said.

He urged participants to "eradicate the soil and conditions in which corruption thrives (and) expand the depth and breadth of the anti-corruption struggle", CCTV said.

Xi also called on the military to "strengthen the all-round supervision of senior cadres in exercising their duties and using their powers".

The meeting took place as China and its regional neighbours have butted heads in recent months over territorial claims in the hotly disputed South China Sea.

China also held war games last month around Taiwan, the self-ruled island that it claims as part of its territory and has vowed to seize one day, by force if needed.

"The situation in the world, country, party and army are undergoing complex and profound changes," Xi said, according to CCTV.

"We must unceasingly promote political army-building... and always dare to fight and win." (AFP)
In response to a disturbing trend of privacy breaches involving its artists, HYBE Labels has launched a stringent crackdown on individuals profiting from the sale of flight information belonging to HYBE artists.

This move comes after increasing incidents of fans obtaining and exploiting sensitive details, such as seat assignments and travel schedules, to intrude on the privacy of their idols.

WTF IS THIS THEY CANT EVEN GET THROUGH & BARELY MOVE pic.twitter.com/1VvRJaQsUt   (@nksunbaem) June 14, 2024

The company issued a detailed public statement on June 18, outlining the severity of the issue and their proactive steps to combat it.

"There have been frequent cases where some have gone far as arbitrarily changing artists' seats and in-flight meals or canceling their flight reservations, causing disturbances to their schedules."

According to HYBE, the unauthorized acquisition and dissemination of artists' flight details have led to instances of stalking and unauthorized contact attempts by overzealous fans.

Some offenders have even gone so far as to manipulate flight reservations and alter in-flight arrangements, causing significant disruptions to artists' schedules and personal lives.

To tackle this pervasive problem, HYBE established a dedicated task force last September.

"Based on the submitted evidence, the investigative agencies conducted long-term domestic and overseas investigations.

In May, they identified suspects, including those presumed to be foreigners, and conducted additional detailed investigations.

The suspects are accused of profiting tens of millions to hundreds of millions of won from selling artists flight ticket information through social media channels over an extended period."

This team has been actively monitoring social media platforms for accounts illegally selling idols' flight information.

Through diligent efforts, HYBE has successfully identified and reported several operators behind these illicit activities to law enforcement authorities.

READ MORE: HYBE Founder Bang Si Hyuk Booed By Audience At 2024 Weverse Con Festival: 'LMAO Deserve'

The suspects, including some believed to be foreign nationals, are facing charges under South Korea's Personal Information Protection Act and other relevant statutes.

I don't have words for this. This is the comments under the video that was shared yesterday where Kook and Jaehyun- is that right were eating. Approached by that foreign sasaeng.



I reported that page which posted this video. I forgot to copy the link  pic.twitter.com/rGLzrhBcbU  Joonie n Sree Muse (@hwayangyonhwa_5) October 27, 2023

The investigation, which spanned both domestic and international jurisdictions, culminated in May with the identification of multiple suspects.

The swift and decisive action taken by HYBE has garnered widespread support from netizens, who have expressed relief and approval for the company's unwavering stance against privacy violations.

Social media reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with many applauding HYBE for its proactive measures in protecting artists from such intrusive behaviors.

"This was well done."

"Good!"

"This is genuinely praiseworthy."

"Wow... Well done, really... I commend them... This is the way to handle it. Really well done."

"Really well handled."

"Finally dealing with the crazies. FINALLY! They're finally cracking down on the issue. Wow, what a relief..."

"Wow, well done."

"Wow, making hundreds of millions from that is insane."

ALSO READ: 'Ongaku no Hi 2024' 2nd Wave Of Performers Unveiled + HYBE Artists To Join Music Show

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Cassidy Jones.
On June 19, BIGHIT MUSIC released an official statement regarding Beomgyu's condition. The statement shared that Beomgyu had visited the hospital after sustaining an injury, and according to the findings, the idol was diagnosed with a sprained ankle.

The medical staff then concluded that the idol would need to rest in the meantime. The agency then kindly asked for the understanding of fans, since Beomgyu would also be unable to participate at the Paris Fashion Week.

BIGHIT MUSIC clarified that although Beomgyu has the resolve to continue in the activities, his health would still come first as the top priority. The agency shared that the idol's schedules would be managed.

Read the full statement below:

"Hello. This is BIGHIT MUSIC.



We would like update you regarding the health status of TOMORROW X TOGETHER member Beomgyu and his upcoming schedules. During his activities, Beomgyu sustained an injury, which required a visit to the hospital. According to the results, Beomgyu was diagnosed with an ankle sprain, specifically, an ankle ligament injury. Based on the medical staff's advice, Beomgyu was required for through rest, and due to this, he will be unable to participate in some of his pre-arranged activities, including Paris Fashion Week. We kindly ask for your understanding regarding this matter. Although Beomgyu has expressed his determination to complete his schedules, we have decided to adjust his participation to prioritize his recovery and adhere to the advice of medical professionals. We will support the recovery of Beomgyu and ensure his full health so he can return to fans as soon as possible. Thank you."

On social media platform X (Twitter), MOAs voiced their concerns and extended their heartwarming words of support for the idol.

Wishing Beomgyu the speediest of recoveries!

For more K-pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: TXT Beomgyu's Health Condition Sparks Concern as Idol Leaves Mid-Interview

KpopStarz owns this article

Written by Israel Monte
An ORBIT (LOONA fan) nearly got fired from her corporate job because of her love for LOONA.

On June 13, X user @qnoodledoodles, hereby referred to as Noodle, shared a photo of her desk to celebrate her first day at her corporate job. In the photo, both monitors featured moons and an orbit, referencing LOONA. Her desk also featured photo cards of two LOONA members. In her caption, she jokingly asked if her workmates knew they were an ORBIT.

First day in corporate job, do you think they know Im orbit? pic.twitter.com/iUagX8fN2I  noodle :D (@qnoodledoodles) June 13, 2024

The photo cards were of Gowon and Hyeju (also known as Olivia Hye)

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Former LOONA Yves Conversation With Fan Sparks Debate: Who Was Rude?

While the desk set-up appeared harmless, it appears not everyone thought so. On June 16, Noodle revealed that her manager, Kyle, sent her a passive-aggressive text about her cubicle, stating it was "not up to company brand standard." He asked her to change the layout that coming Monday and to meet them for a meeting at 2 PM. Noodle worried that she was getting worried that she might be worried about her desk layout choices.

But she did not take it sitting down! She was advised by her co-workers to talk to HR, with everyone confused as to why Kyle was upset over a few photo cards. On June 17, Noodle revealed her co-worker immediately told her not to take any of her decor down.

Update: I talked to my coworkers and they said I should bring this up with HR bc everyone is confused on why Kyle is on my ass about a few photos. I guess stay tune to see how that all goes ???? https://t.co/rlq5yAQ88r  noodle :D (@qnoodledoodles) June 17, 2024

Noodle requested a meeting with HR over the situation. She stated that she explained that the photo cards were of people special to her, and even showed them her desk. Luckily, HR was on her side and stated that all she needed to do was clean up the papers on her desk and organize more. However, LOONA was there to stay!

I had to show them my desk and I could tell they all were also like ? at the fuss. So I think theyre on my side guys!!!! They only commented on how I should probably just clean up my papers on my desk and organize a bit more but in terms of the photos, LOONA will prevail!!!!!  noodle :D (@qnoodledoodles) June 17, 2024

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: LOONA 1/3 Spotify Gets Hacked - Here's The Hacker's Message

Noodle was reassigned to a different team following the meeting with HR. Hilariously, on, June 19, Noodle shared a photo from her new cubicle, featuring roughly the same set-up. She then asked if it was obvious she was an ORBIT.

second week of corporate job, do you think they know Im orbit? https://t.co/h5kOmRl8AO pic.twitter.com/0DoOxOmiLx  noodle :D (@qnoodledoodles) June 18, 2024

How far have you gone for your K-pop bias? Tell us in the comments below!

LOONA has not been active as a 12-member group since 2022. Chuu was the first to Blockberry Creative, doing so on November 25, 2022, due to a contractual dispute. In January 2023, Heejin, Kim Lip, JinSoul, and Choerry had their contracts with the label terminated. In May, Hyunjin and Vivi had their contracts terminated as well. Finally, in June, Haseul, Yeojin, Yves, Hyeju, and Gowon had their contracts nullified.

CHECK THIS OUT: Hungary Horror: Former LOONA Idols Reveal Desperate Food Sneaking Tactics

Chuu is currently active as a soloist. In September 2023, Loosesemble, featuring Hyunjin, Yeojin, Vivi, Gowon, and Hyeju, made their debut. In February 2024, ARTMS debuted featuring members Heejin, Haseul, Kim Lip, JinSoul, and Choerry. Yves debuted as a soloist in May.

KpopStarz Owns This

Written by Alexa Lopez
BENTON, La.  Robbery was the apparent motive in the death of an elderly Shreveport man who was gunned down outside of a house as his wife and
Further humanitarian assistance

On 16-19 June 2024, Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarcic visited the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), to see first hand the humanitarian crisis affecting parts of the country due to conflicts and violence.

During the visit, which included meetings with the authorities as well as visiting the troubled eastern part of the country, Commissioner Lenarcic announced the EU plans to provide close to 99 million in total in humanitarian assistance this year. This amount includes 35 million, subject to approval by the EU budgetary authorities.

The Commissioner met with President Felix Tshisekedi and Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka, expressing his grave concern about the humanitarian situation in the country and stressed the need for full respect of International Humanitarian Law by all parties  including on the protection of the civilian population.

Commissioner Lenarcic also reaffirmed the EU's position calling for an inclusive dialogue, in particular between the DRC and Rwanda, to address the root causes of the M23 conflict and the importance of ensuring the respect of the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of all the countries in the region.

In Goma, Commissioner Lenarcic engaged with humanitarian partners and visited several projects funded by the EU in settlements hosting displaced people in eastern DRC, where he met with aid workers and people affected by the crisis. He commended the dedication of humanitarian organisations operating in the DRC under extremely difficult circumstances and reiterated the EU's support for their crucial work.

Background

Between conflict, poverty, malnutrition and frequent disease outbreaks, humanitarian needs in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are among the highest in the world. There are currently over 7 million displaced people within the DRC  the second highest number in Africa, after Sudan.

More than 1 million Congolese refugees live in neighbouring countries. Given the instability in the region, the DRC itself hosts more than 500,000 refugees from neighbouring countries. Some 25.4 million people are acutely food insecure (over 1/4 of the population) due to the upsurge of violence, conflict and instability in eastern DRC and large internal displacement. According to the World Food Programme, an estimated 2.8 million children are acutely malnourished.

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a major concern in the DRC. In 2024, the EU developed a holistic GBV response strategy, presented during the European Humanitarian Forum of March 2024.

For more information:

EU humanitarian aid to the DRC

European Humanitarian Forum

Quote

The EU remains firmly committed to assisting the DRC deal with the disastrous humanitarian situation it faces. Already this year, our initial allocation for humanitarian aid is 35% higher than the initial allocation for 2023, and I am pleased to announce that I have just requested an additional funding of EUR 35 million, allowing us to provide life-saving aid to the most vulnerable. At the same time, the EU is supporting the delivery of humanitarian aid with its Humanitarian Aid flights and, when needed, the organization of Humanitarian Air Bridge flights to hard-to-reach areas. In a world where a multitude of crises are competing for attention, the crisis in the DRC should not be forgotten: my visit to the country, the second one in the course of my mandate, also aims at ensuring the necessary visibility for the affected in this crisis.

Janez Lenarcic, Commissioner for Crisis Management 2024-06-18

Zarazeno st 19.06.2024 11:06:00 Zdroj Evropska komise en Original ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/api/documents?reference=IP/24/3266&language=en lang en guid /IP/24/3266/
EU Budget 2025

The Commission has today proposed an annual EU budget of 199.7 billion for 2025. The budget will be complemented by an estimated 72 billion of disbursements under NextGenerationEU. This substantial financial envelope will support the EU in meeting its political priorities while integrating the changes agreed in the mid-term revision of the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) in February 2024.

The draft budget 2025 directs funds to where they can make the greatest difference, in cooperation and in line with the needs of the EU Member States and our partners around the world to make Europe more resilient and fit for the future to the benefit of EU citizens and businesses. This will be done by fostering the green and digital transitions, by creating jobs while strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy and global role. It will enable support to key critical technologies through the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP).

The draft budget 2025 will also provide  in line with the MFF mid-term revision  continued support for Syrian refugees in Turkiye and the wider region, the Southern Neighbourhood including the external dimension of migration, as well as the Western Balkans. Crucially, it will provide stable and predictable support to Ukraine.

The Commission proposes to allocate the following amounts to the various EU priorities (in commitments):

53.8 billion for the Common Agricultural Policy and 0.9 billion for the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, for Europe's farmers and fishers, but also to strengthen the resilience of the agri-food and fisheries sectors and to provide the necessary scope for crisis management.

and 0.9 billion for the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, for Europe's farmers and fishers, but also to strengthen the resilience of the agri-food and fisheries sectors and to provide the necessary scope for crisis management. 49.2 billion for regional development and cohesion to support economic, social and territorial cohesion, as well as infrastructure supporting the green transition and Union priority projects.

to support economic, social and territorial cohesion, as well as infrastructure supporting the green transition and Union priority projects. 16.3 billion to support our partners and interests in the world , of which, among others, 10.9 billion under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument  Global Europe (NDICI  Global Europe), 2.2 billion for the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) and 0.5 billion for the Growth Facility for the Western Balkans, as well as 1.9 billion for Humanitarian Aid (HUMA).

, of which, among others, 10.9 billion under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument  Global Europe (NDICI  Global Europe), 2.2 billion for the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) and 0.5 billion for the Growth Facility for the Western Balkans, as well as 1.9 billion for Humanitarian Aid (HUMA). A further 4.3 billion will be available in grants under the Ukraine Facility complemented by 10.9billion in loans.

complemented by 10.9billion in loans. 13.5 billion for research and innovation , of which mainly 12.7 billion for Horizon Europe, the Union's flagship research programme. The Draft Budget also includes the financing of the European Chips Act under Horizon Europe and through redeployment from other programmes.

, of which mainly 12.7 billion for Horizon Europe, the Union's flagship research programme. The Draft Budget also includes the financing of the European Chips Act under Horizon Europe and through redeployment from other programmes. 4.6 billion for European strategic investments , of which, for instance, 2.8 billion for the Connecting Europe Facility to improve cross-border infrastructure, 1.1 billion for the Digital Europe Programme to shape the Union's digital future, and 378 million for InvestEU for key priorities (research and innovation, twin green and digital transition, the health sector, and strategic technologies).

, of which, for instance, 2.8 billion for the Connecting Europe Facility to improve cross-border infrastructure, 1.1 billion for the Digital Europe Programme to shape the Union's digital future, and 378 million for InvestEU for key priorities (research and innovation, twin green and digital transition, the health sector, and strategic technologies). 2.1 billion for spending dedicated to space , mainly for the European Space Programme, which will bring together the Union's action in this strategic field.

, mainly for the European Space Programme, which will bring together the Union's action in this strategic field. 11.8 billion for resilience and values , of which, among others, 5.2 billion for the rising borrowing costs for NGEU, 4 billion Erasmus+ to create education and mobility opportunities for people, 352 million to support artists and creators around Europe, and 235 million to promote justice, rights, and values.

, of which, among others, 5.2 billion for the rising borrowing costs for NGEU, 4 billion Erasmus+ to create education and mobility opportunities for people, 352 million to support artists and creators around Europe, and 235 million to promote justice, rights, and values. 2.4 billion for environment and climate action , of which mainly 771 million for the LIFE programme to support climate change mitigation and adaptation, and 1.5 billion for the Just Transition Fund to make sure that the green transition works for all.

, of which mainly 771 million for the LIFE programme to support climate change mitigation and adaptation, and 1.5 billion for the Just Transition Fund to make sure that the green transition works for all. 2.7 billion for protecting our borders , of which mainly 1.4 billion for the Integrated Border Management Fund (IBMF), and 997 million (total EU contribution) for the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex).

, of which mainly 1.4 billion for the Integrated Border Management Fund (IBMF), and 997 million (total EU contribution) for the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex). 2.1 billion for migration-related spending within the EU , of which mainly 1.9 billion to support migrants and asylum-seekers in line with our values and priorities.

, of which mainly 1.9 billion to support migrants and asylum-seekers in line with our values and priorities. 1.8 billion to address defence challenges, of which mainly 1.4 billion to support capability development and research under the European Defence Fund (EDF) and 244.5 million to support Military Mobility.

challenges, of which mainly 1.4 billion to support capability development and research under the European Defence Fund (EDF) and 244.5 million to support Military Mobility. 977 million to ensure the functioning of the Single Market, including 613 million for the Single Market Programme, and 205 million for work on anti-fraud, taxation, and customs.

including 613 million for the Single Market Programme, and 205 million for work on anti-fraud, taxation, and customs. 583 million for EU4Health to ensure a comprehensive health response to people's needs , as well as 203 million to the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (rescEU) to be able deploy operational assistance quickly in case of a crisis.

, as well as 203 million to the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (rescEU) to be able deploy operational assistance quickly in case of a crisis. 784 million for security , of which, notably, 334 million for the Internal Security Fund (ISF), which will combat terrorism, radicalisation, organised crime, and cybercrime.

, of which, notably, 334 million for the Internal Security Fund (ISF), which will combat terrorism, radicalisation, organised crime, and cybercrime. 196 million for secure satellite connections under the new Union Secure Connectivity Programme.

The draft budget for 2025 is part of the Union's long-term budget as adopted at the end of 2020 and as amended in February 2024, including subsequent technical adjustments, and seeks to turn its priorities into concrete annual deliverables.

The annual budget for 2025 will have to be formally adopted by the Budgetary Authority before the end of the year.

Background

The draft EU budget for 2025 includes the expenditure covered by the appropriations under the long-term budget ceilings, financed from own resources. These are topped up by expenditure under NextGenerationEU, financed from borrowing on the capital markets. For the core budget, two amounts for each programme are proposed in the draft budget  commitments and payments. "Commitments" refer to the funding that can be agreed in contracts in a given year; and "payments" to the money actually paid out. All amounts are in current prices.

For More Information

Questions and Answers on draft annual budget 2025

All EU annual budget documents

Annual budget procedure

Revision of the EU budget 2021-2027

2021-2027 long-term EU budget & NextGenerationEU

EU budget in motion

EU as a borrower

Quote

The EU budget continues to provide Europe with the means to tackle current and future challenges, notably by supporting the green and digital transitions and increasing the Unions overall resilience. We have also been able to strengthen our position externally: the mid-term revision of the MFF was essential to enable our Union to respond to the consequences of Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine on a stable footing, reinforce our capacity to respond to natural disasters and deliver answers to the global competition on key critical technologies.

Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for Budget and Administration 2024-06-18
TIMES HEALTH WRITER

Its striking how much Dr. Marie Russell still thinks like a cop.

Inside the emergency room at County-USC Medical Center on a recent afternoon, she worries almost as much about preserving the bullet that pierced a shooting victims flesh as she does about his physical discomfort.

After urging the physicians assistant to remove the bullet without any metal tools that could mar the markings crucial in a police investigation, she then gently asks the patient for permission to see and photograph his wound and his tattoos.

The 32-year-old man, shot six hours after being paroled, obligingly pulls up his shirt so she can examine the massive discolored bruise that is developing where the bullet lodged after missing his spine.

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You lucked out, she tells him. You could have been paralyzed.

Then, as he rolls up his left shirt sleeve, she leans in for a closer look at the multicolored peacock on his inner arm. Knowing full well that peacocks and dragons are commonly tattooed inside the arm to hide signs of drug abuse, she nonetheless asks why he chose the design.

Acknowledging that he has used heroin, the man doesnt mention the fresh puncture indicating he likely injected earlier that day.

Without expressing any judgment, Russell takes a few snapshots of the tattoo as well, then steps from behind the examining room curtain.

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The injection site is something I dont have in my photo collection, she says, sounding like a butterfly collector who just snagged a prized specimen.

The former Malden, Mass., police officer, who traded a uniform and walking shoes for scrubs and sneakers years ago, has an unusual resume in this world of inner-city trauma care. On top of police skills, she has honed her trauma skills within two miles of 30 East L.A. street gangs and studied forensic pathology under L.A.s famous former coroner, Thomas Noguchi.

She has shot more than 750 photos of tattoos, and hundreds more of unusual wounds to help her understand how theyre inflicted and how they heal.

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Russell incorporates the photos into lectures she delivers here and abroad to medical students, law enforcement and forensic societies. She shares medical and sociological insights into sexual assaults, domestic violence, child abuse, and the drug use and prison histories of gang members.

She is certainly single-handedly developing a new field of what you call clinical forensic medicine, Noguchi says. We only have one Marie Russell, but we need at least a thousand such persons to serve major communities.

County-USC faculty noticed Russell early in her residency because of her multidisciplinary skills and recruited her for a permanent faculty spot, says Dr. Kathryn R. Challoner, an emergency room doctor and fellow faculty member.

Its a joy to have her around. The first person I would go to for questions about tattoos or forensics or ballistics or gang affiliation or pathology information would be Marie, says Challoner, who turns to Russell on touchy cases inside the hospitals jail unit, such as suspected cruelty or child abuse.

Moses Remedios, the physicians assistant who asked for her advice on whether to remove the bullet from the flank of the tattooed gunshot victim, says: Shes got that total cop street-smart going, plus shes a good doctor.

He then extracted the bullet with his gloved fingers, as requested.

She Always Knew She Wanted to Be a Doctor

Although she began her career as a police officer, Russell, 45, says she always knew she wanted to be a doctor.

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A native of Woodside, N.Y., she was one of five children raised by a father who worked for the railroad and a mother who did clerical work. Russell remembers as far back as the second grade admiring her family doctor, a woman who later gave the teenage Russell some of her medical journals.

A good student, Russell spent a year at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, but moved home when her mother developed cancer. After her mothers death, she returned to Massachusetts and began taking courses in criminalistics and criminal investigation at Northeastern University.

Then, on a dare, she took the police exam and passed.

Although she hadnt set out to become a police officer, Russell knew that there were funds available to help officers further their educations. So she completed police training and became the first female officer in Malden, Mass., north of Boston. While on patrol there, she pursued her bachelors degree in psychology.

An emergency medical technician course and a stint as an emergency room clerk got her hooked on emergency medicine, so she applied to medical school at the University of Massachusetts.

By 1983, which she recalls as the hardest year of my life, she was 28 years old and juggling first-year medical studies with a full-time police job 50 miles away.

In her second year of medical school, she was introduced to pathology, and found herself torn between doing advanced training in that or emergency medicine. She could only do both at a big-city medical center with an affiliated coroners office, so she headed to County-USC in 1987 for her residency.

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While examining gunshot and stab wounds suffered by patients from surrounding neighborhoods, she became fascinated by their tattoos meaning.

The more I asked, the more I became interested, she recalls.

Studying the Markings of the Various Gangs

Understanding the forensic significance of the symbols has helped shape her handling of patients, especially shooting victims. For example, before County-USC doctors understood gang tattoos, they inadvertently put members of opposing gangs in the same treatment areas.

Sometimes that created problems, Russell says, such as gang members threatening and verbally abusing each other. So the hospital staff began limiting visitors to gang members mothers and at times admitting the patients under pseudonyms to keep rival gangs from trying to come after them. There have been incidents in this hospital where gang members have tried to come into the hospital and finish the job, she says.

Russell has become alert to the distinctive markings of black and Latino gangs and white supremacists who come through the doors, learning about symbols and numerals that are a mystery to most people.

At one time, Russell asked a patient if his 11550 tattoo signified his ZIP code, since she knew some L.A. gangs had 213 area-code tattoos to identify their home turf. The patient responded that the five digits represented the penal code for being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Since then, Russell has learned to recognize many symbols of a prison past. The number of teardrops tattooed below the corner of the eye can indicate how many years a patient has been in prison. A Salvador Dali-like image of a melting clock means the person has done time. And prominent images of the Madonna or Christ tattooed on the back are used to deter prison rape.

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Some tattoos influence her medical decisions. An unexplained fever in a patient with symbols of drug use may indicate the possibility of drug-related infections; prison watchtowers or symbols of homosexual acts may make her suspect HIV or hepatitis.

Despite her demanding schedule in the emergency room, where shes as apt to help a patient untangle an intravenous line as she is to mobilize a trauma team, and teaching at County-USC and Cal State L.A., she is also managing to raise a nephew, 14, and niece, 18, now married.

Bringing up children is the hardest thing Ive done, she says. It also made her give up the guns shes had since she was a police officer.

The guns moved out of the house the day my children arrived, said Russell, who is by her own admission a fanatic about safety. Shes been known to annoy her family by giving smoke detectors for Christmas.

Russell knows she inhabits a different world than that of most people, a point driven home one day at her niece and nephews school when she suddenly realized that an incident that disturbed the nuns there was minor compared with what I hear and see everyday.

It occurred to me that crime and violence are not part of their life. My life is so different. My life centers around violence.

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Even at home, she spends many hours scanning her forensic photos into a computer.

In her prized time off, she manages to put the darkness aside to swim or camp, although she does admit her preferred recreational reading is true crime.
On 18 June Costa Ricas comptroller general (CGR),criticised a proposed legislative initiative floated earlier this month by President, which would seek citizens input on various reforms via a referendum.

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On 18 June the first chamber of Brazils supreme court (STF) unanimously voted to indict the three men suspected of organising the 2018 murder of Rio de Janeiro city councillor

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On 18 June, the candidate for Venezuelas main opposition coalition Plataforma Unitaria Democratica (PUD) in the 28 July presidential election, denounced the arrest of four opposition campaigners and a journalist in recent days.

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On 18 June Argentinas Security Ministermet with El Salvadors President, whom she congratulated for returning peace and tranquillity to his country.

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The warships sent by Russia to the Caribbean for military exercises have finally left the port of Havana and could possibly head to Russian ally Venezuela next. The warships were sent to the Caribbean after US President Joe Biden allowed Ukraine to use US-made weapons to strike Russian soil.

The Russian warships conducted military drills in the Atlantic, just miles away from US territory. It then headed to Cuba for a 5-day visit. It is made up of the missile frigate "Gorshkov," the nuclear-powered submarine "Kazan," the tanker "Pashin," and the tug "Nikolai Chiker."

While the small Russian fleet, which the US government says was "no threat," was not carrying any nuclear weaponry, they were carrying hypersonic missiles and other advanced weaponry.

On Saturday, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel set foot inside the missile frigate "Gorshkov" and met with the sailors, according to the Associated Press. The vessel was also open to the public while it was docked in the port of Havana. This is a common practice when vessels arrive at the port.

The Russian warships left after Canada and the US sent their own warships to the island. The US fast attack submarine, the USS Helena, arrived in US-occupied Guantanamo Bay for a "routine visit" while the Canadian navy patrol boat Margaret Brooke arrived at Havana Harbor last Friday. It is expected to be welcomed in Venezuela, a very pro-Putin country under dictator Nicolas Maduro.

Canada Sending Warship to Cuba 'Not Related' to Russian Warships in Havana

Meanwhile, Canada stated that the Canadian navy patrol boat Margaret Brooke's arrival in Havana was "a port visit ... in recognition of the long-standing bilateral relationship between Canada and Cuba" and not really because Russia sent warships to Cuba, just miles away from US soil.

READ MORE: Russia Warships in Cuba: US Sends Attack Submarine to Guantanamo Bay for 'Routine Visit'

A Canadian diplomat stated that the ship visiting Cuba was a s "routine and part of long-standing cooperation between our two countries", and that it was "unrelated to the presence of the Russian ships."

As for the US nuclear attack submarine that arrived in Guantanamo Bay, Cuban officials were not very happy and condemned its visit, even after the US explained it was part of a "routine visit" to the US-controlled territory.

"Naval visits to a country are usually the result of an invitation, and this was not the case," said Cuban Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio. "Obviously we do not like the presence in our territory (of a submarine) belonging to a power that maintains an official and practical policy that is hostile against Cuba."

Canada Defense Minister Talks About Warship Country Sent to Cuba After Russian Warships Arrived

There was some criticism on Canada's part as well, and Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair defended sending its own warship to Cuba after the Russian warships arrived in Havana.

"This was a direct result of a request that was made to me by the commander of joint operations command and the admiral in charge of the Royal Canadian Navy," said Blair in a statement. "The port visit was carefully planned at Canada's request and it was announced by the military in advance

The ship eventually returned to Canadian waters on Monday, according to the CBC.

READ MORE: Russia Spreading Disinformation About US Border Crisis To Undercut Ukraine Aid

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WATCH: Go inside the Russian warship 90 miles away from US - CNN
At least six people died in landslides in Banos, Ecuador, following heavy rain.

After days of heavy rain, several homes were buried underneath tons of mud that slid down a hillside. More than a dozen people were injured, and a main road was cut off.

A state of emergency has been declared in Banos, BBC reports.

Officials reported that around 30 people who were initially missing have been found alive. Heavy machinery has been dispatched to clear roads blocked by rocks and mud.

Local media revealed that five of the six confirmed dead were from the same family.

Residents have been advised to stock up on bottled water due to possible disruptions in the tap water supply.

The mayor also urged locals to stay home to minimize traffic on the affected roads. Schools will remain closed on Monday, with classes held online.

A shelter has been opened for those whose homes were damaged.

READ NEXT: Brazil Floods Disrupt Schools and Devastate Crops in Key Agricultural State

Landslides and Flooding Wreak Havoc

The Ecuador landslides on Sunday buried a highway in mud and debris, hitting three cars, two houses, and a bus.

Banos, known as a gateway for adventures in the Amazon jungle and Ecuador's volcanoes, is about 135 kilometers (84 miles) south of the capital, Quito, by air or 186 kilometers (115 miles) by road.

Heavy rains have drenched Ecuador and other parts of the region, leading to widespread damage, according to AP News.

Earlier this week, a landslide in El Salvador killed two children.

Storms have caused rivers across Ecuador to overflow, sending floods and mudflows onto highways and bridges.

The Pisque River flooded a popular waterpark north of Quito on Sunday, although there were no immediate reports of casualties.

Emergency workers reported multiple Ecuador landslides blocking or destroying streets, slowing rescue efforts.

Banos Mayor Miguel Guevara has asked residents to avoid treacherous roads as authorities race to clear the area and search for more victims.

In the canton of Chambo, military personnel helped evacuate citizens after a river overflowed.

Public Works Minister Roberto Luque stated that operations at three hydroelectric plants were affected.

He expressed solidarity with affected families in a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Regional Impact of Severe Weather

The Ecuadorean Secretariat for Risk Management confirmed a landslide in Banos de Agua Santa, where more than 30 missing people were found.

The tourist destination faces severe infrastructure damage due to heavy storms, Mint noted.

Major highways linking the highlands to Amazonian provinces are severed, and overflowing rivers, including the Pisque River, have caused flooding.

Emergency workers are struggling with rescue operations due to blocked streets.

Mayor Guevara urged residents to avoid dangerous roads while efforts to clear the northern coastal area continue.

Heavy rains have also impacted El Salvador and Guatemala, causing casualties and flight diversions.

The national government pledged support to affected areas, setting up emergency shelters and closely monitoring the situation.

Residents of Banos are advised to stay indoors to facilitate rescue operations.

The downpours have devastated Banos and other regions in Ecuador, disrupting daily life and causing significant damage.

As the community recovers, the focus is on ensuring residents' safety, providing immediate relief, and rebuilding.

Cooperation between local authorities, emergency responders, and the national government is essential to overcoming the challenges posed by this natural disaster.

READ MORE: Haiti Removes Police Chief Frantz Elbe to Combat Gang Violence

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WATCH: Waves of mud crash through Ecuadorian town as landslide kills six | AFP - From AFP News Agency
Western countries have long been trying to break China's dominance of the supply chain and rare earth minerals. Brazil may be the answer as the South American mining giant is pushing to challenge Chinese dominance and build its own rare earth industry as the demand for metals needed for magnets used in green energy and defense is rising.

Brazil is seen to take advantage of its low labor costs, clean energy, established regulations, and proximity to end markets such as the United States and Mexico in order to achieve this goal. It is also planning to build Latin America's first magnet plant which would provide a ready buyer for these rare earth metals.

However, Reuters noted that this would still be a huge challenge to Brazil, nonetheless. This is because of several factors, including the low prices rare earth minerals have, along with technical challenges and nervous lenders. Still, Brazil wants to become one of the world's top five rare earths producers.

The country currently holds the world's third-largest rare earth reserves and with the pace of its rare earths projects, experts note that this would be a "test for how successful the West may be at building a new advanced industry almost from scratch to break China's grip."

Despite this, investors are looking at this development very positively, with Daniel Morgan of Barrenjoey Investment Bank in Sydney stating, "Brazil as a source of potential rare earths is a very exciting proposition because there have been some very meaningful discoveries made in the past couple of years."

"I do think outside of China, Brazil's projects are the most economic greenfield projects available," he added.

However, this would be a long-haul project as many other countries are looking to catch up to China, including Australia, Vietnam, and Brazil. Continued support would be needed to break Chinese dominance in the industry.

READ MORE: Guatemala Goods Rejected by China, President Bernardo Arevalo Says It's Because of Country's Support for Taiwan

Brazil Coordinating With Neighbor French Guiana To Fight Illegal Mining

Meanwhile, Brazil is also looking to stamp down on illegal mining, and it is looking to its French neighbors for help after Lula and French President Emmanuel Macron met on the sidelines of the G7 meetings in Italy.

French Guiana is still part of France and much like its larger neighbor, Brazil, it is also rich in minerals. However, also like Brazil, it also has a massive illegal mining problem. This is where the two countries aim to work together and drive out illegal mining.

"Brazil and France signed an agreement to combat threats to security and the environment, and health risks affecting the cross-border region," said the Brazilian government in a statement.

Canada Cracking Down on Rare Earth Metals from China

It is not just Brazil that is challenging China's dominance on rare earth minerals, but also Canada, as the North American country has announced a crackdown against companies selling rare earth minerals mined in Canada but sold to Chinese buyers.

The crackdown against Chinese rare earth minerals was led by Justin Trudeau himself, and this is leading the Canadian government to buy stockpiled rare earth materials from Vital Metals Ltd. to stop them from selling to a Chinese buyer.

READ MORE: TikTok Ban: House Republicans Move Ahead With Vote Despite Donald Trump Opposition and Joe Biden Support

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WATCH: China moves beyond Australia, Brazil for its own Iron ore; China's strategic investment in Africa - WION
A recently disclosed court document has brought to light harrowing new details in the investigation into the disappearance of an entire Florida family in Pasco County.

The unfolding events have captured widespread attention and concern in the community, revealing a tragic and deeply unsettling series of events, News Channel 8 reports.

The Pasco Sheriff's Office made a grim announcement on June 15, revealing the arrest of the Florida man Rory Atwood, a 25-year-old resident of Hudson, on a murder charge.

This development came shortly after human remains were discovered on Atwood's property.

The Florida family in question were identified as Phillip Zilliot II, aged 25, Rain Mancini, aged 26, and their two young children, 5-year-old Phillip Zilliot III and 6-year-old Karma Zilliot, all of whom had previously lived with Atwood.

Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco expressed cautious optimism about identifying the remains pending confirmation by the medical examiner.

The investigation was triggered by a welfare check request on June 13, prompting deputies to respond swiftly to the unfolding tragedy.

READ NEXT: Florida Teen Fatally Shoots Parents, Injures Deputy, Then Takes His Own Life

Detailed Account of Events

According to a criminal complaint affidavit, the investigation began when a concerned caller reported an alarming scene observed via video call with a Florida man.

The caller's brother had noticed a pool of blood and the bodies of adults and children during the video interaction, prompting immediate action from law enforcement, according to People.

Upon arriving at Atwood's residence on Nottingham Trail in Hudson, deputies initiated discussions with Atwood, who claimed to have last seen the Florida family walking away from his property on the evening of June 12.

Initially, nothing suspicious was found during the first search of the home and yard.

However, a subsequent discovery of a smoldering fire pit in the backyard raised significant concerns among investigators.

Conflicting Statements and Allegations

The investigation into the deaths of the Florida family took a disturbing turn with new evidence implicating Atwood.

Initially, Atwood claimed the family had left his home weeks earlier after eviction for rent non-payment. Still, their belongings were found, contradicting his statement.

Forensic examinations revealed human bone fragments with fire damage, suggesting foul play.

Cadaver dogs detected remains at a fire pit, and a chlorine scent hinted at evidence tampering.

Florida man, after initially denying involvement, later confessed to a violent altercation resulting in fatal injuries,

However, authorities found inconsistencies in his self-defense claim against Phillip Zilliot II.

Atwood faces first-degree murder charges with further legal actions pending.

Florida man with a criminal record since 2016 faced charges for fleeing law enforcement at 17.

At 18, he had injunctions filed against him for stalking his girlfriend's parents, which were later dismissed.

In 2019, he received probation for battery at a Hudson Circle K, Tampa Bay noted.

The community of Pasco County mourns and is awaiting conclusive findings from ongoing investigations.

The case highlights the impact of domestic disputes and violence on neighborhoods, with law enforcement committed to uncovering the truth and delivering justice for the tragic loss of the Zilliot family.

READ MORE: Washington Teen Returning Airsoft Gun Fatally Shot by Off-Duty Guard

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WATCH: Human remains found amid search for Florida family - From FOX 13 Tampa Bay
Citizens from China would not be able to travel to Ecuador anymore as the South American country has announced it is bringing back visa restrictions on the Asian powerhouse. These restrictions have been announced as more and more Chinese migrants head to countries like Ecuador en route to the US-Mexico border, with US Border Patrol catching plenty of Chinese migrants trying to cross each day.

The government of Ecuador cited "an increase in irregular migratory flows" from China in its statement as it has now suspended an agreement with the Asian giant over waiving visa requirements for travelers from that country.

Ecuador has stated a variety of infractions from Chinese travelers visiting the country as well, including overstaying in the country, as many Chinese citizens went past the permitted 90-day period. Many were also using Ecuador as a stepping stone to reach other destinations in the region, particularly the United States.

According to NBC News, the Foreign Ministry of Ecuador has also revealed that "nearly half of visitors from the country did not exit through regular routes on time." It was also revealed that there had been an increase in Chinese citizens entering Ecuador's borders since 2022, many of them not registering their departure.

China is also working with the United States to repatriate Chinese immigrants who entered the countru illegally via the US-Mexico border. Chinese citizens arrested by US border officials are then deported back to China.

China Reacts To Ecuador's Decision To Re-Impose Visa Requirements on Its Citizens

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian was asked regarding Ecuador's recent actions, stating that their country firmly opposes all forms of human smuggling and that "The agreement on mutual visa exemption between China and Ecuador, since it took effect in August 2016, has played an important and positive role in promoting cross-border travel and practical cooperation in various fields between the two countries."

READ NEXT: Brazil Set To Challenge China's Dominance in Rare Earths Industry

The Chinese official added that their "law enforcement departments are working with relevant countries to jointly tackle human smuggling activities, repatriate illegal immigrants, and maintain a good order in cross-border travel."

According to the Associated Press, the number of Chinese immigrants entering the United States rose drastically last year, with the CBP arresting over n 37,000 Chinese nationals along the US-Mexico border. This is 10 times more than the previous year.

Citizens From China Heading to US For Better Life, Brave Dangerous Trek from South America

Many of the Chinese migrants go through hell just to reach the US-Mexico border, as they often arrive through the two South American countries that do not require any visa for Chinese citizens, Suriname and Ecuador. They then trek to Colombia and either go through the treacherous Darien Gap or take a dangerous boat ride to circumvent that infamous jungle.

"The boat ride took two hours, and my son cried for two hours. I was worried that he wasn't breathing anymore when he became too exhausted to cry," Wang Zhongwei, a Chinese citizen told Nikkei Asia. "I still remember his crying even to this day."

"I don't regret walking here," he added, despite being robbed and extorted by Mexican cartels. "There is no hope for my family back in China."

READ MORE: Ecuador Files Lawsuit Vs. Mexico in ICJ Over Granting Asylum to Former VP Jorge Glas

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WATCH: The Chinese migrants risking it all for the American dream | 101 East Documentary - Al Jazeera English
A team of Haiti police commanders met Kenya's inspector general on Tuesday in preparation for a planned deployment to the violence-hit Caribbean country by the end of June.

Kenya is set to lead a UN-backed multinational peacekeeping mission with officers from various countries to combat Haiti gang violence, which has left thousands dead and forced over 360,000 people to flee their homes, AP News reports.

The Haiti police officials, led by Joachim Prohete, expressed their need for support during their meeting with Kenya's Inspector Japhet Koome in Nairobi.

"We are counting on your support," Prohete said as protests and taxation erupted in the streets.

Koome assured the Haiti delegation of Kenya's commitment, stating, "We are ready and committed to come over and assist whenever needed."

The Haitian police also met with commanders of the 1,000 Kenyan officers who will be part of the peacekeeping mission.

Kenyan police will host Haitian police for training, and the visiting delegation will tour the barracks where these drills occur.

President William Ruto reaffirmed Kenya's commitment to restoring peace in Haiti, a sentiment US President Joe Biden echoed during Ruto's state visit in May.

Originally set for May, the deployment was postponed, and the construction of bases and procuring essential equipment, including vehicles, was finalized.

Haiti has suffered from poverty, political instability, and natural disasters for decades. Previous international interventions, such as the UN stabilization mission 2004, were marred by scandals and ended in 2017.

READ NEXT: Haiti's Transitional Council Appoints New Cabinet to Tackle Gang Violence

US Allocates $109 Million for Kenya's Haiti Mission

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has authorized $109 million in funding for Kenya's special forces to deploy to Haiti, according to the Miami Herald.

This decision overrides a Republican hold on the funds and several legal challenges in Nairobi.

Blinken's move provides necessary equipment and signals the US commitment to the mission, encouraging other nations to contribute.

Countries like Jamaica and Benin have shown interest in sending police officers but have been slow to provide equipment or funding.

The US has pledged $300 million, with the Defense Department securing $200 million and the State Department overcoming obstacles for the remaining $100 million.

Despite challenges, the State Department has sourced additional vehicles and radios, addressing concerns about the readiness of Port-au-Prince.

The mission, expected to involve 2,500 personnel, will deploy in phases.

"The people of Haiti cannot wait," a State Department official emphasized, highlighting the urgency of supporting the Multinational Security Support mission and Haiti National Police in combating gang violence.

Rising Gang Violence in Haiti Spurs Urgent Intervention

Haiti gang violence has surged since February, with powerful gangs overtaking police stations, attacking government infrastructure, and displacing over 100,000 people in Port-au-Prince.

A recent massacre of 11 people in a rural town north of the capital highlights ongoing violence.

Despite delays, US officials affirm the deployment will proceed soon based on Kenyan assurances, despite new court challenges in Kenya.

The MSS mission, led by Kenya since its UN Security Council approval in October, aims to stabilize Haiti.

Philippe Branchat, head of IOM Haiti, warned of the catastrophic humanitarian impact, with nearly 580,000 Haiti displaced and acute hunger affecting close to 5 million people, Reuters noted.

The departure of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry in February left a power vacuum exploited by gangs, further disrupting supply routes and essential services.

Neighboring countries have deported hundreds of thousands of Haitians, worsening the crisis as the international community hopes for a successful intervention.

READ MORE: Haiti Ousts Police Chief to Combat Gang Violence

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WATCH: Kenyan Officials Arrive in Haiti Ahead of 1,000 Troops' Deployment | Firstpost America - From Firstpost
Avocadoes may be in high demand in the US, but criminal violence in Mexico may lead to the multibillion-dollar trade of the fruit being in danger after it was revealed that several US avocado inspectors from the USDA were allegedly attacked in the primary avocado-producing state of Michoacan.

A spokesperson for the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) stated on Tuesday that inspections in Michoacan state have already been paused as the security situation for its inspectors is currently being reviewed, and more safeguards are being put in place.

This was not the first time armed groups in Michoacan have attacked USDA inspectors, as back in 2022, inspectors were directly threatened by criminal groups in the area, according to the Financial Times.

"This is huge. Cartel violence in #Mexico is now unambiguously hitting the domestic economy, and relations with the North, in a manner simple even for casual observers to understand," Eric Farnsworth, vice-president of lobby group the Council of the Americas and the Americas Society, tweeted on X, formerly Twitter. "This is a bright red warning light flashing brightly on the dashboard."

Mexico is responsible for over 80 percent of the avocadoes being consumed in the United States, with exports from the country being worth an estimated $2.7 billion in last year alone. A vast majority of that came from Michoacan, which is being fought over by infamous drug cartels such as the Familia Michoacana and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, as well as several smaller and lesser-known criminal groups.

Michoacan State Government Working With US Authorities to Resolve Mexico Avocado Situation

While Michoacan's avocado and mango inspections were temporarily halted, the inspections in other Mexican states would still continue, according to a USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service spokesperson.

READ NEXT: Mexico Violence: Family of 6, Including 3 Children, Shot Dead in Chiapas

Despite this, there would not be a pause in Mexican avocado shipments from Michoacan to the United States, as "there are a lot of Michoacan avocados already in transit," the USDA spokesperson added. There are also several avocadoes coming from neighboring Jalisco state, according to the Associated Press.

Michoacan Gov. Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla also assured the public that they are already in discussions with US authorities to resolve the situation, especially as drug gangs continue to harass and extort the state's avocado farmers.

Michoacan Governor Downplayed Situation Regarding Safety of US Avocado Inspectors

During a radio interview on Tuesday, Michoacan Gov. Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla downplayed the incident where the USDA avocado inspectors were attacked, claiming that they were just stopped in a protest by residents of Aranza.

He explained that they were never at risk and he immediately got in touch with the US Embassy the next day. He then sent state forces to provide security for the state's avocado producers and packers.

Mexico's Producers and Packers Association also released a statement that said the suspension was caused by an incident that was "unconnected to the avocado industry."

READ MORE: Welcome Corps Group Helping US Citizens and Residents Support Refugees Come to the US Legally

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WATCH: Defending Avocado Farms From Drug Cartels - VICE News
New York's highest court has decided not to hear former President Donald Trump's appeal regarding the gag order in his hush money case.

The decision, posted on Tuesday, means that Judge Juan Merchan's gag order against Trump remains in place.

Trump, convicted of 34 counts of business fraud related to hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels, had requested the termination of the gag order before his sentencing scheduled for July, according to CNN.

READ NEXT: Biden Criticizes Trump at LA Fundraiser

Court Rejects Trump's Bid to Lift Gag Order

The New York appeals court rejected Donald Trump's attempt to lift the gag order, stating that no substantial constitutional question was directly involved.

Judge Merchan had imposed the Trump gag order, preventing the former president from discussing witnesses and the case after the trial concluded.

Despite Trump's appeals, the court upheld Merchan's decision, citing the need to maintain order and fairness in the legal proceedings.

Trump's lawyers argued that the gag order infringed upon his First Amendment rights and hindered his ability to campaign for the 2024 presidential election, Fox News reports.

However, the court's rejection of Trump's appeal means that the gag order remains in effect, much to the disappointment of his legal team and supporters.

Chief Justice Recuses from Hearing Trump's Appeal

Chief Justice Rowan Wilson of the New York appeals court abstained from participating in Donald Trump's gag order appeal.

The court declined to hear Trump's appeal, stating that no significant constitutional questions were at stake.

Chief Justice Wilson's decision not to partake in the ruling was due to potential conflicts of interest, as Judge Merchan, who imposed the Trump gag order, is represented by an attorney employed by the state's Unified Court System.

In addition to Chief Justice Wilson, Judge Caitlin Halligan also recused herself from the decision-making process, Newsweek noted.

Halligan had previously served as counsel to the Manhattan District Attorney's Office in a related matter involving Trump in 2020.

With these recusals, the court decided to maintain the gag order on Trump.

With the court's refusal to lift the gag order, Trump remains restricted from speaking about jurors, witnesses, prosecutors, and court staff involved in the hush money case.

Despite the conclusion of the trial, the gag order remains in place, raising concerns among Trump's legal team and supporters about its impact on his political activities and free speech rights.

Trump's attorneys have argued that the gag order violates his fundamental right to political speech, particularly during a presidential campaign.

They emphasized the need for unrestrained campaign advocacy by Trump, especially considering comments made by President Biden and ongoing public attacks against Trump by various individuals involved in the case.

However, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office has defended the gag order, asserting that it is necessary to maintain the integrity of the legal proceedings and prevent any potential harm to the fairness of the trial.

Despite the former president's appeals, the court has upheld the Donald Trump gag order, reinforcing the importance of preserving order and fairness in the judicial process.

READ MORE: Biden to Protect Spouses of Citizens, 'Dreamers' from Deportation

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: New York's highest court leaves gag order in effect in Trump hush money case - From CBS New York
Florida Republican Congressman and accused pedophile Matt Gaetz, a key ally to former president Donald Trump, is in even more hot water as the House Ethics Committee has expanded its probe against him and will now include investigating the MAGA congressman's alleged illicit drug use.

The House Ethics Committee announced on Tuesday that it has identified "additional allegations" against the Florida Republican and that these additional allegations "merit review," with claims that in addition to his sexual misconduct, the staunch defender of former president and convicted felon Donald Trump was also using illegal drugs.

In addition, the House Ethics Committee announced that it is now eyeing claims that Gaetz "dispensed special privileges and favors to individuals with whom he had a personal relationship, and sought to obstruct government investigations of his conduct."

Gaetz is accused of sharing inappropriate images of the women he slept with, some of whom are presumed to be minors, to his Congressional colleagues. Because of this, the committee noted that it was suspending existing probes into four separate allegations of wrongdoing against Gaetz.

In its statement, the House Ethics Committee noted that it "will take no further action at this time on the allegations that he may have shared inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, misused state identification records, converted campaign funds to personal use, and/or accepted a bribe or improper gratuity."

Despite his closeness to former President Donald Trump, Gaetz has been blamed by fellow Republicans for the current chaos happening in the House of Representatives after he led the effort to kick former California Rep. Kevin McCarthy out of the speakership. McCarthy himself has stated that Gaetz had a vendetta against him for letting the House Ethics Committee investigation into his alleged pedophilia continue.

READ MORE: Kevin McCarthy Says He Is Not Speaker of the House Anymore Because Matt Gaetz 'Slept With a 17-Year-Old'

Accused Pedophile and Drug User, Matt Gaetz Reacts to New House Ethics Committee Probe

As for Matt Gaetz himself, the Florida Republican congressman reacted as many expected by denying everything and calling the new investigations into him "frivolous."

"This is Soviet," said the Florida congressman, calling the House Ethics Committee "opening new frivolous investigations" against him and claiming that this was retribution for spearheading the ouster of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy last year.

He has since maintained his innocence and that he did nothing wrong as the multiple ethics inquiries into his activities begin anew, according to Politico.

House Ethics Committee Conducting a Thorough Investigation Into Rep. Matt Gaetz

The House Ethics Committee released a statement on Tuesday, stating that the Republican-led committee is thoroughly investigating the MAGA lawmaker despite "the difficulty in obtaining relevant information from Representative Gaetz and others."

In addition, the committee noted that it has "spoken with more than a dozen witnesses, issued 25 subpoenas, and reviewed thousands of pages of documents in this matter. Based on its review to date, the committee has determined that certain of the allegations merit continued review."

Gaetz is accused of also trafficking minors across state lines to have sex with them and paying them through Venmo.

READ MORE: Matt Gaetz Ousted Kevin McCarthy as Payback on House Ethics Probe Into Child Sex Trafficking Scandal

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Matt Gaetz Gets the NEWS HE FEARED from Investigators - MeidasTouch
Dr. Benjamin Brown, a prominent Florida plastic surgeon, has been arrested and charged with manslaughter following the tragic death of his wife, Hilary Ellington Brown.

The incident, which occurred at Restore Plastic Surgery in Gulf Breeze, has sparked a legal and medical investigation into the circumstances leading up to her demise.

Authorities from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of Florida doctor Ben Brown, 41, on Monday, June 17.

The arrest comes after a thorough investigation conducted in collaboration with the District One Medical Examiner's Office and the State Attorney's Office, according to PEOPLE.

Hilary Brown suffered cardiac arrest during a cosmetic procedure performed by her husband on November 21, 2023.

She was subsequently placed on life support but tragically passed away a week later on November 28.

READ NEXT: Florida Family Reported Missing Found Burned on Friend's Property

Medical Board's Findings and Charges

The Florida Department of Health issued an emergency restriction order on Dr. Brown's medical license, shedding light on the events leading to Hilary's death.

According to the order, Hilary had prepared her own IV bags and consumed multiple pills, including Valium, before the surgery.

During the procedure, she experienced complications attributed to lidocaine toxicity, which eventually led to her cardiac arrest, Fox News reports.

The order also highlighted lapses in the Florida plastic surgeon Dr. Brown's handling of the emergency, alleging that he delayed calling for emergency medical assistance despite his wife's deteriorating condition.

This delay is a focal point in the manslaughter charge, which accuses Dr. Brown of culpable negligence.

Hilary Brown, remembered fondly for her generosity and vibrant personality, leaves behind a grieving family and community.

Her father, Marty Ellington, has publicly criticized a Florida doctor's actions, attributing his daughter's death to negligence and asserting that proper medical protocols were not followed.

Allegations of Professional Misconduct and Unsafe Practices

In addition to the current charges, previous patients of Dr. Brown have come forward with troubling accounts of their experiences.

One patient, who underwent corrective surgeries after initial procedures went awry, described Dr. Brown's clinic as lacking proper medical standards despite its reputed status.

Another disturbing revelation includes allegations that Hilary Brown, in her final surgeries, took an active role in her own medical care, including allegedly manipulating her IV and self-administering medications.

These claims raise further questions about the oversight and practices within Dr. Brown's clinic, the Miami Herald noted.

Debra Brown Guy, a former nurse at Restore Plastic Surgery, voiced concerns about the clinic's operations, citing inadequate medical equipment and unlicensed personnel handling medications.

Her observations add weight to criticisms of Dr. Brown's management and patient care practices.

In response to the charges, Florida plastic surgeon Dr. Ben Brown has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, asserting that all medical protocols were followed on the day of his wife's passing.

His legal team intends to contest the charges in court, emphasizing his reputation as a dedicated and skilled surgeon.

READ MORE: Florida Teen Fatally Shoots Parents, Injures Deputy, Then Commits Suicide

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Plastic Surgeon Charged in Death of Wife - From Inside Edition
Robert Morris, a former Donald Trump adviser and the pastor of the Dallas-based Texas megachurch, the Gateway Church, has admitted to sexually assaulting a 12-year-old child in the 1980s. He later resigned from his position in the church.

According to The Guardian, Robert Morris, who was one of the founding members of the Gateway Church and was its face for decades, was accused by an Oklahoma woman of sexually abusing her in the 1980s. The sexual abuse began while she was still 12 years old and continued until she reached the age of 16.

When the accusation surfaced, Morris spoke with the religious publication, the Christian Post, and admitted to the deed. His victim also released a statement to the same publication and slammed the former Trump spiritual adviser.

When I was in my early 20s, I was involved in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in a home where I was staying," the Texas megachurch pastor told the religious news outlet.

However, his accuser was quick to reply, telling the Christian Post she was "appalled" at the description of her as a "young lady" and that the repeated abuse she received from him had taken decades for her to process. She also stated that she and her family have repeatedly been threatened by Robert Morris with lawsuits and by using the police against them.

Other churches that Morris ministered that were absorbed into the Gateway Church were allegedly aware of his abusive history, including the Shady Grove church, which later became Gateway Church's Grand Prairie campus in 2013. However, Morris claimed that he received counseling and had since "walked in purity and accountability in this area."

MAGA Pastor Robert Morris Announces Resignation From the Gateway Church

Following his interview with the Christian Post, Robert Morris has now resigned from his position as the pastor of Gateway Church, with his child sexual abuse allegations now hounding his career.

READ MORE: Matt Gaetz in More Trouble as House Ethics Committee Expands Sexual Misconduct Probe

In addition to his resignation, NBC Dallas-Fort Worth is reporting that the Gateway Church has now accepted his resignation after two decades of leading the church. Gateway has also hired the law firm of Haynes and Boone to conduct an independent review of Morris's "inappropriate relationship."

"Regretfully, prior to Friday, June 14, the elders did not have all the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse," the church said in a statement. "The elders' prior understanding was that Morris's extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with a 'young lady' and not an abuse of a 12-year-old child."

Robert Morris Sexual Abuse Scandal Turns Focus Back to MAGA Hypocrisy

Because of his closeness to former president and convicted felon Donald Trump, critics have pointed out the hypocrisy of the MAGA movement, which has embraced proven sexual assaulters like Donald Trump himself and accused pedophiles like Robert Morris and Matt Gaetz while at the same time accusing the LGBTQ community of the same things their leaders are doing.

As MSNBC noted, Trump and his followers believe that the LGBTQ community is the greatest threat to human decency, while Trump and some of his allies have been repeatedly found liable for sexual misconduct.

READ MORE: '2000 Mules' Donald Trump Propaganda Movie Still Being Spread After Being Debunked, Losing Court Battle

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Woman says Gateway Church founder Robert Morris began sexually abusing her when she was 12 - FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth
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One person died and three others were seriously injured Tuesday afternoon in Hunterdon County after a car and dump truck collided and caused the car to hit another vehicle in the opposite lane, investigators said.

The dump truck, which was being driven by a 66-year-old man, and a Toyota sedan being driven by a 64-year-old woman, were both traveling north on Route 31 in Clinton Township around 2 p.m., according to a statement from the Hunterdon County Prosecutors Office.

The dump truck and the Toyota collided in the area of Riley and Jakes Restaurant and the Toyota went into the southbound lane and hit a Volkswagen being driven by a 17-year-old girl, the office said.

A passenger in the Toyota, Arthur John Latzko, 70, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, died from his injuries at the scene, authorities said.

The woman who was driving the Toyota, the girl driving the Volkswagen and her passenger were all taken to area hospitals, the office said.

No other information was released Wednesday afternoon as the crash was still under investigation by the office and the Clinton Township Police Department.

Anyone with information was asked to the department at 908-735-7230 or the office at 908-788-1129.

Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription.

Chris Sheldon may be reached at csheldon@njadvancemedia.com.
A Judge has told a businessman alleged to have breached orders not to communicate with a couple over a disputed garage used to store exotic pets that "he has done himself no favours" by not accepting service of documents in the case.

Mr Justice David Nolan on Wednesday, June 19 made the remarks after being informed that Noel Martin Senior had refused to accept the personal service of documents in proceedings brought against him.

Alan O'Neill, and his partner June Finnegan have sued Drumgoan Developments Limited, Mr Martin Senior and Darren Martin. The garage, which the defendants had claimed was owned by Drumgoan.

The garage is located adjacent to the couple's home at Crann Nua, Edenderry Road, Portarlington, Co Laois. The court has previously made a declaration that the couple own the garage, and it is currently being registered in their name by Tailte Eireann.

The case came before the court earlier this when the couple obtained orders including an injunction restraining the defendants, who are alleged to have threatened and intimidated them, from communicating directly with the plaintiffs.

Mr Martin Snr is alleged to have breached that order on two occasions, and was made the subject of contempt of court proceedings.

He subsequently apologised to the court, said the matter was a mistake and agreed not to contact the plaintiffs again.

When the matter returned before the judge on Wednesday Ruairi Giblin Bl for the couple said that despite entering into an agreement with Mr Martin Snr's lawyers regarding the service of the documents in the contempt proceedings, the defendant has failed to co-operate.

Counsel said that a summons server had not been able to serve Mr Martin Snr with the documents.

Counsel said that after calling Mr Martin Snr the summons server asked to make arrangements to serve the papers.

It is claimed Mr Martin Snr said in reply: "What do you want me to do?"

When the server asked the defendant to make himself available to accept the summons, the defendant replied: "No can do." and refused to co-operate.

The matter could not proceed until the papers had been personally served on Mr Martin Snr, counsel said. On being informed of this the judge ordered Mr Martin, who was present in court, to take the witness stand.

Mr Martin denied that he had failed to co-operation, said he has attended court on several occasions to deal with the matter, and denied speaking with the summons server.

He said he had been away in recent weeks and shortly afterwards said he contracted the COVID-19 virus. He said that he gave his phone to others during that period.

"There are three Mr Martins," he added.

The judge said that he hoped Mr Martin understood that he was "in deep trouble." In relation to the contempt proceedings.

The Judge said that while he had not made up his mind regarding the allegation of contempt, Mr Martin Snr attitude towards the service of the documents had done the defendant " no favours at all."

The judge allowed the plaintiffs' solicitors to formally serve the motion for attachment and committal with the penal endorsement on Mr Martin in court.

When the matter returns before the court later this month the judge said he will rule if Mr Martin Snr was in contempt, and if so what sanction to impose.

Other aspects of the action, including the couples claims for damages against the defendants also remain live before the court.

In their action the couple claim the defendants had asserted ownership of the garage.

The couple purchased their home and for an additional fee the garage, built by Drumgoan, in 2005.

The couple has kept and bred exotic pets in the garage including chameleons, tarantulas, scorpions and a female caiman alligator.

However the garage was not properly conveyed to them, due to an oversight.

The couple say they were unaware of this issue until recent months.

They alleged that the defendants engaged in a "land grab" and made demands for payment from them and their neighbours.

They also claimed that the garage was damaged by agents of the defendants using a JCB.

They also claimed that Mr Martin Snr sent them threatening communications, including messages allegedly designed to intimidate his family.

The plaintiffs also allege Mr Martin Snr threatened to make complaints about them to various agencies including Tusla and the Irish Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Mr Martin has previously apologised over what he said was a genuine mistake and a misunderstanding.
Laois-Offaly Senator and Minister Pippa hacket has won the backing of two leading members of the Green Party in the party's leadership race in the wake of Eamon Ryan's shock decision to step down.

The biggest endorsement came from Minister of State Ossian Smyth, speaking on RTE Radio' 1's Morning Ireland said he would be supporting Ms Hackett.

He stressed that there will not be a coronation of the next leader and Minister Hackett would appeal to voters in rural Ireland. He said it was false that the Greens were against rural Ireland and farmers.

"The way to counter it is not to have someone like me from Dublin, what do I know about farming, it is to have someone like Pippa Hackett to run. She is a beef and sheep farmer walking around her farm in her wellies, who understands what she is doing. She is the right person to make the case," he said.

Minister Smyth insisted that his colleague would contest the next General Election where he said there is currently just one TD, Carol Nolan, based in the county with the departure of Barry Cowen.

The Dublin TD also said he would be willing to put himself forward for the position of deputy-leader of the party.

Green Party Senator Pauline OReilly unsucessfully contested Midlands North West in the European Elections told Virgin Media said she will also support Minister Hackett in the leadership race.

I am endorsing minister Pippa Hackett for the role as leader. Id say that youll see many people coming out and saying the same. The Greens have four cabinet ministers, one of those would be Minister Pippa Hackett and she is the only one from outside Dublin. For me, coming from Galway, its essential that we have that rebalancing. What we have seen is people speak about the Green Party as if we dont understand what its like to live outside Dublin and thats not correct, she said.

Minister Hackett, who is a Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture, has not declared her intentions yet but it is understood that support is growing for her candidacy with in the party.

The Mayo native was appointed to the Senate by the Taoiseach. She was subsequently appointed a Minister of State with so-called 'super junior' status. This means she attends Cabinet meetings with the Taoiseach, Tanaiste and other Government Ministers.

Other candidates for the post are expected to announce their candidacy as the day progresses.

In a surprise development, Eamon Ryan said he was stepping down yesterday (Tuesday).

Green Party deputy leader Catherine Martin also announced that she would not be a candidate in the leadership race.

Figures expected to contest the leadership battle include Minister for Children Roderic O'Gorman and Minister of State Joe O'Brien as well as Minister Hackett.
Laois Offaly Minister Pippa Hackett has announced her intention to run for leader of the Green Party.

She told Newstalks Kieran Cuddihy that she can make the party relevant and relatable in Dublin and rural Ireland.

I am delighted to say that I am putting my name forward to be the next leader of the Green Party. I think Eamons departure yesterday does give us an opportunity in the party for a fresh start. I believe a fresh start is needed. I believe I can be that fresh start, she said this afternoon.

I am not your conventional Green. I live in rural Ireland. I am a beef and sheep farmer. I am also a mother. I have been in Cabinet for the past four years.

The party really has never had a non Dublin leader. We have never had a woman lead the party and I believe my different perspective and certainly my different life experiences can make the Green Party relevant and relatable inside and outside of Dublin, she said.

A Mayo native, Minister Hackett lives in Geashill, Co Offaly where she farms. She was elected as Offaly County Council's first ever Green Councillor in 2019. Then she was elected to the Seanad unopposed in a bye-election, replacing Grace OSullivan who took up a role as an MEP. Minister Hackett failed to win a seat in Laois Offaly in the 2020 General Election.

When the Greens went into Government with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, she was appointed as Junior Minister at the Department of Agriculture.

Her husband Mark was co-opted onto her Offaly County Council seat. He lost the seat in the Local Elections earlier this month. Her son Charlie, who is 20 and a student in the University of Limerick, ran for a council seat in Laois for the Green Party but also failed to get elected earlier this month.

Minister Hackett has backing within her party including from Dublin-based Junior Minister, Ossian Smyth, Wicklow TD Steven Matthews and Senator Pauline OReilly, who is from Galway and is the partys chair.

Dublin based Minister Roderic OGorman has also announced his intention to seek the leadership of the Green Party. He too has support from within the party to take over the leadership.

Its unclear yet if other members of the party will enter the race to become the next Green Party leader.
The Government has been urged to step in and become a broker in resolving issues between Aer Lingus and the Irish Airline Pilots Association (Ialpa) to avoid significant disruptions to the holiday season.

Pilots at Aer Lingus served notice to the airline of their intention to launch an indefinite work-to-rule from next Wednesday.

It comes after Ialpa pilots voted overwhelmingly for industrial action in a dispute over pay earlier this week.

The Government must urgently intervene in the dispute between Aer Lingus and their pilots. There must be a fair deal worked out quickly to ensure we dont have peoples holiday plans disrupted this summer pic.twitter.com/ekpsZUMavM  Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) June 19, 2024

From next Wednesday, Ialpa members at the airline will not do any overtime or out-of-hours duties.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said that the frustration of Aer Lingus pilots has been building for a long time.

Aer Lingus failed to deliver pay and conditions improvements in line with colleagues in British Airways and Lufthansa, Ms McDonald told the Dail.

The airline needs to reengage with the pilots union, get back around the negotiating table and hammer out a fair deal.

Were still a week away from the start of industrial action so there is still trying to sort this out and to avoid any escalation.

Were heading now into peak holiday season.

She added: Aer Lingus should use the next seven days to negotiate a fair deal with the pilots that averts industrial action.

Of course this must involve the industrial relations machinery of the state, but every influence now needs to be brought to turn things around and ensure a successful outcome.

Standing in for Taoiseach Simon Harris during leaders questions, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said that the dispute can only be resolved by all parties getting round the negotiating table.

I appreciate that a significant number of pilots, quite a high percentage, have voted for this action. But I also believe that none of them want to see this type of disruption taking place, the Fine Gael minister added.

Its important that they and the employers here being Aer Lingus get around the table, thats the only way in which these issues can be resolved.

There has been input from the industrial machinery of the state through the WRC (Workplace Relations Commission) and then later the labour court. Whats clear is that theres still quite a wide gap between what has been asked and what has been proposed.

The only way that this can be resolved is by all parties getting around the table and if necessary, and where necessarily using the machinery of the state.

If that means going back to the WRC, if that means engaging and negotiating with the support of the state or if that means again, reengage in with the labour court.

I would ask people maybe to take a step back because the implications here are far reaching for those who have holidays booked, those who wish to travel.

Ms McDonald said the Government was unclear in what it is planning to do to resolve the issues.

I dont think its sufficient to simply sit back cross your fingers and hope that that is the outcome, she added.

I think the Government now needs to be more assertive than that and become a broker and a positive influence in sorting this out, and just bringing relief to everybody who wants to have a smooth and indeed a prosperous summer.

Ms McEntee said that any major disruptions could be absolutely significant to Irelands international reputation.

The only way that this can be resolved by all parties coming around the table, by all parties taking a step back, by looking at the potential implications here, by looking at what the potential options are to find a resolution to this, Ms McEntee added.
Roderic OGorman said the Green Party does not do coronations, as he is set to go head to head with Pippa Hackett in the party leadership contest.

The Minister for Children and Integration and Ms Hackett, a junior minister and Senator, announced their plans on Wednesday to run in the leadership bid.

It comes a day after Eamon Ryan said he would be stepping down as party leader.

Ms Hackett has received the backing of Green Party TD Ossian Smyth and Senator Pauline OReilly.

Mr OGorman, who is understood to have the backing of TD Joe OBrien, said he believes he has the right experience and vision to lead the party.

I also have the experience of being a Cabinet minister for the last four years, progressing some major pieces of legislation, major pieces of policy through Government, he told RTE News at One.

What we need to do as a party is to broaden our policy appeal. We have made amazing achievements in the area of climate, but we have never been a single issue party and we need to be bringing forward policies that have significant improvements in peoples lives.

I expect Pippa will join the race, and I welcome that. I think a contest is good, we dont do coronations in the Green Party.

I think we will have a good opportunity to discuss these issues.

Im announcing my candidacy for leadership of the Green Party/Comhaontas Glas. I am running for leader, after 24 years of Green Party membership, to build a party that can win across this country, and deliver on our ambitions. I'm asking for your support at: pic.twitter.com/qSWcTxFGVB  Roderic OGorman TD (@rodericogorman) June 19, 2024

He added: I believe I have shown that the policies I have introduced in four years as minister are highly relevant to people living all over this country, halving the cost of childcare, increasing parents leave, bring the Dais model for pre-school.

These are issues that are important to families, important to parents whether they are living in urban Ireland or rural Ireland.

Ms Hackett told Newstalk: I am delighted to say that I am putting my name forward to be the next leader of the Green Party.

I think Eamons departure yesterday does give us an opportunity in the party for a fresh start.

I believe a fresh start is needed.

I believe I can be that fresh start. Im not your conventional Green. I live in rural Ireland. Im a beef and sheep farmer, Im also a mother.

Ive also been a Cabinet minister for the past four years and the party has never really had a non-Dublin leader, weve never had a woman lead the party.

I believe my different perspective and certainly my different life experiences can make the Green Party relevant and relatable inside and outside of Dublin.

Deputy leader Catherine Martin also announced on Tuesday she will step back from her role, adding that she is not putting herself forward for the leadership contest.

The party is one of the three Government coalition partners, and suffered a poor performance at the local and European elections earlier this month, which saw the Greens lose both of their MEP seats.

Junior Minister Malcolm Noonan said that he is backing Mr OGorman, and welcomed a debate around the partys communications.

We will go through a process, it will be very democratic process, he said at an event in Co Monaghan.

I think it would be useful for the party to have a conversation about recalibration, about where we see ourselves strategically as we head into the next election.

We aways want to be in Government. The only way we can implement any of our policies is by being in Government and we are never afraid to do that.

I am looking forward to the debate. Ive already rode my support in behind Minister Roderic OGorman. I think as a Cabinet minister he brings with him huge experience, not just strategically in the party but also as a Government minister.

We are blessed and lucky to have so many fantastic people in the party.

He added: We certainly have a role to play in rural issues and thats my own background as well.

Critically we do need to use this period of the election of a new leader to have a focus and a think about the messaging of the party.

Speaking on Morning Ireland on Wednesday, Mr Smyth said he hopes to be a future leader of the party but will not join the contest this time.

He also said the Green Party needs to be relevant outside Dublin.

I think the party needs a big change, he said.

Theres this narrative that the Green Party is in opposition to rural Ireland and its not true and we need to counter that very clearly.

Our last three leaders of the Green Party have been all from Dublin and I think that we need to make sure that we are clearly relevant outside of Dublin as well.

We managed to top the poll in several Dublin constituencies recently in local elections and I kept all my councillors in Dun Laoghaire, six, but in other areas we lost all of our seats in some counties.

Although it was a sad and poignant moment yesterday to have Eamon leaving after 13 years, it is an opportunity for change and we need something completely different.

He added: Pippa Hackett is an agriculture minister, she is a beef and sheep farmer from Offaly, shes been sitting at the Cabinet table for the last four years and making decisions on every aspect in running the country and I think that she is the person to lead the party, and she hasnt said she would but, if shes listening now, I would like her to consider running.

If she does agree to run, then I would be willing to run as deputy leader alongside her.

Mr OReilly told Virgin Media that having Ms Hackett lead the party would counter the view that the Green Party does not understand rural Ireland.
A Portlaoise native who describes his town as being "the birthplace of Irish aviation" has a flier of an idea to bring tourists.

The Laois town was home to Colonel James Fitzmaurice who co-piloted the Bremen in the first East West transatlantic flight.

However it is also the place where the first plane was handbuilt and flown in Ireland a century ago, with Fitzmaurice himself inspired to learn to fly having watched the exciting Adritt family project.

Joe Rogers whose father William also worked on the famous timber Portlaoise Plane, suggests a replica sculpture should fly high above Market Square, and created this photo montage to depict how it might look.

Writing to the Leinster Express / Laois Live, the UK resident set out why he thinks the idea can fly.

"Portlaoise might benefit from having a permanent Replica of the Portlaoise Plane (first Plane to fly in Ireland as reported in the King's County Chronicle 4th Nov 1909) on general view in the Market Square. When I inquired on a Portlaoise Facebook page, 110 people indicated that they were in favour of a Plane Sculpture in the Market Square.

"Replicas of historical aircraft can be beneficial to a town in several ways. They can help preserve the towns history and heritage, attract tourists, and provide educational opportunities for visitors. Additionally, replicas can be used to commemorate important events or people associated with the town.

"For example, a Replica of the Wright Brothers plane in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, attracts thousands of visitors each year and helps to promote the towns aviation history. Similarly, a Replica of the Spirit of St. Louis in St. Louis, Missouri, celebrates Charles Lindberghs famous transatlantic flight and honours the citys aviation heritage.

"Replicas outside on show in a public place 24/7 day in, day out, year in, year out, they are a very visible reminder of the towns heritage in contrast to a machine kept indoors in a museum that is seen only infrequently.

The committee who oversaw the return and restoration of the actual Portlaoise Plane to Portlaoise. Teddy Fennelly, Sean Murray, Michael Parsons, chairman of The Heritage Council; Louise Cahill, Alan Phelan and Catherine Casey, pictured at its official return on September 12, 2021. Picture: Alf Harvey.

"The Harry Ferguson first flight took place on 31st December 1909, a full 8 weeks after the Portlaoise Plane and sure enough theres an eye-catching Replica of the plane airborne over the Dual Carriageway at Hillsborough.

"It would be great to see a Replica of the Portlaoise Plan on show perhaps in the Market Square to celebrate the bravery and skill of the men from the town who made and flew the first plane to fly in Ireland," Mr Rogers writes.

Mr Rogers had rediscovered the original Portlaoise Plane in a little English aviation museum back in 2012. It was later shipped back to Portlaoise where it was restored locally and will soon go on permanent indoor display in the Fort Protector.

"The Cadogan Holiday Guide to Ireland printed that Portlaoise had nothing much to recommend it. Nothing to recommend it? The most famous town in Ireland  the actual Birthplace of Irish Aviation. But the plane had long ago disappeared from Portlaoise and out of sight, out of mind. Few people remembered it and hence that terrible entry in the Cadogan Guides.

"With a Replica on show in the town it would never be forgotten and would certainly pay for itself again and again and would put Portlaoise permanently on the World Aviation Map - tourist guide books could never again say that the town has nothing to recommend it.

"And of course nowadays there is the added capability of creating Digital Interpretation Video which will add story and interest to the sculpture project," Mr Rogers adds.
Failte Ireland has granted funding of 2,735,425 for the redevelopment and regeneration of Emily Square in Athy and 67,650 for a Visitor masterplan for Donadea Forest Park.

The projects are among 22 nationwide which have received total grants of 27.1m under Failte Irelands EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

Fine Gael Kildare South TD and Minister, Martin Heydon said: This funding [for Emily Square], which is co-funded by the Government and the EU will allow Kildare County Council proceed with their ambitious plans to redevelop Emily Square.

The upgrade and enhancement of Emily Square has been a long held ambition. With the current 6.9m Government funded development of Shackleton Museum continuing apace, the next challenge was to secure funding to deliver a greatly enhanced Emily Square. This allocation of 2,735,425 for the redevelopment and regeneration of Emily Square is a vital investment that will make Athy an even better place to live, work and visit.

Coupled with the delivery of the multi million euro Athy Distributor Road along with the Food and Drinks hub under construction there is no doubt of the state backed investment in South Kildare that will make a very positive impact on peoples lives.

Todays announcement also includes a 67,650 for a Visitor masterplan to be delivered for Donadea Forest Park, concluded Minister Heydon.

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan TD said: Today marks a significant milestone in the green transition as Failte Ireland announces the first projects under the EU Just Transition Fund Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme targeted at the Midlands Region. This initiative, co-funded by the Government and the European Union not only provides new employment and economic opportunities for communities and businesses in the Midlands but also helps protect biodiversity, supporting a greener, more sustainable, and low-carbon future. I look forward to the delivery of these projects and to their positive impact on the Midlands Region."

Head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland Barbara Nolan added: Ireland can be at the forefront of the EUs efforts to diversify its economy towards greener and more progressive industries, helping to achieve the EUs Green Deal goals. One of the objectives of the EUs Just Transition Fund is to support Irelands Midlands to further develop the potential of the local economy. Investing in sustainable tourism will not only generate local jobs but is also a step further in positioning the Midlands as an attractive tourist destination in the heart of Ireland.

CEO of Failte Ireland, Paul Kelly said: Today, we are pleased to announce our initial investment grants for projects under our Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking scheme, which is just the beginning of our EU Just Transition journey for Irelands Midlands.

These transformative projects, spanning the entire region, will create more reasons for domestic and international tourists to visit Irelands Hidden Heartlands and Irelands Ancient East, generating new opportunities for employment, empowering local businesses, and enhancing local communities, while strengthening the appeal of the Midlands as a tourist destination for generations to come. With further investment in projects to be announced over the coming months, this is a very exciting time for the Midlands.

We look forward to further collaboration with local tourism businesses and communities, the Eastern and Midland Regional Authority (EMRA), Bord na Mona, Local Authorities, and our strategic partners including the Office of Public Works, the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage, Waterways Ireland, and Coillte to deliver these projects and more under this scheme across the next two years."

Acting Director of the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) Clare Bannon said: EMRA, as the Managing Authority of the EU Just Transition Fund programme, welcomes the announcement of this group of projects that underline the significant opportunities arising from investment in tourism for bolstering placemaking through enhanced amenities and capacity building. Tourism plays a pivotal role in diversifying income streams and enhancing employment prospects that are intricately tied to our local assets. By investing in tourism, we not only open doors to increased recreational activities but also contribute to the preservation of environmental quality, fostering sustainable growth and prosperity for our community.
A local mother has described how a creative workshop run by Helium Arts  the childrens charity committed to improving the wellbeing of children and young people living with lifelong physical health conditions  has transformed the confidence and wellbeing of her nine-year-old son who has epilepsy.

Helium Arts recently expanded its Creative Health programme to hospitals and in the community in Dublin, serving families living in Co Kildare.

The programme has already been running in hospital and community settings in Cork, Limerick and the Mid West since 2019, in Galway and the West since then, and it is also offered online.

The programme provides free, artist-led creative workshops in hospital paediatric outpatient clinics to children and young people living with lifelong physical health conditions. Following the hospital-based workshops, participants can be referred to Helium Arts community and online programmes, which include free workshops and camps during school holidays and weekends. These workshops, led by professional artists, provide on-site medical support and are accessible to participants with a variety of needs.

Supported conditions include diabetes, epilepsy, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy, allergies, heart conditions, asthma, spina bifida, juvenile arthritis, rare or complex conditions and many more.

In Dublin, the programme is initially being rolled out at Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) at Connolly in Blanchardstown and Childrens Health Ireland (CHI) at Tallaght, in partnership with the CHI Arts in Health Programme.

A free online Creative Arts summer camp is also available for children with lifelong physical health conditions, including in Co Kildare, in July. To register and for further information, visit www.helium.ie.

Michelle Conron is mum to Ruairi, age nine, who has epilepsy. Ruairi recently completed his first in-person creative workshop at CHI at Tallaght, which the family travelled to from their home in Donard, Co Wicklow. Ruairi accesses the majority of his health services in Kildare as part of the HSE Dublin and Midlands health region.

Conron said, We have seen such a wonderful change in Ruairis confidence and wellbeing since he began the creative workshop with Helium Arts. They have been an outlet for him to express himself and build his confidence. The medical care on site means that we are reassured that he is in safe hands throughout the session. Ruairi cant wait to take part in the next workshop and have the opportunity to make friendships with other children like him.

Announcing the expansion of the Creative Health programme to Dublin, CEO of Helium Arts, Helene Hugel, said: As we celebrate five years of our Creative Health programme, were excited to expand the reach of our hospital-based programmes to enable children and young people from Kildare to participate. In Ireland, 156,437 or 12% of all children and teenagers live with the effects of illness or disability every day. This key step in our national growth means that even more children can have improved outcomes in health, wellbeing, social connection and creative expression.

Our new partnership with the CHI Arts in Health Programme is a testament to the strength of community and collaboration that drives us forward to improve access to creative opportunities for more children living with chronic health conditions.

Helium Arts impact on children and families

According to Helium Arts latest impact report for 2023*, children and young people living with lifelong physical health conditions can often experience stigma, isolation, loneliness and anxiety, and its Creative Health programme uses creativity to inspire these children to feel more confident. By empowering them with tools such as friendship, community and new skills, the programme helps these children to become more prepared and capable of overcoming adversity.

Other key findings on the impact of the programme contained in the 2023 report show that:

84% of children reported they felt happier when going to hospital and 100% of parents said that their childs mood was positively impacted.

Seeing their children happier meant that 98% of parents reported their own mood was positively impacted while in the hospital waiting room.

51% of community programme participants came from rural areas, 39% were from disadvantaged backgrounds, and 53% had a disability or additional needs, with research showing that children from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds and those who live in more rural areas face greater challenges due to lifelong physical health conditions.

Helium Arts hosts week-long celebration at Naughton Institute

To mark its launch in Dublin serving Kildare and to celebrate its first five years delivering a range of impactful, creative programmes, Helium Arts hosted a week-long celebration last week at the Naughton Institute (the former Science Gallery) at Trinity College Dublin on Pearse Street.

Free, public events were offered to people the opportunity to meet members of Helium Arts and learn more about the art workshops they run under their Creative Health programme:

CREATIVITUDE was a week-long exhibition of artworks created by young people from Cork, Galway, and Limerick who participated in Helium Arts Creative Health Hub programmes during 2022 and 2023. Visitors immersed themselves in a hands-on journey of creativity, exploring materials, expressions of identity, and ideas that transcend the challenges of lifelong health conditions. Curated by Monica Flynn and made in collaboration with the wonderfully talented artists, Ashleigh Ellis, Chelsea Canavan, Sarah Fuller and Niamh Gibbons, the works on display provided a window into the creative exploration of materials, expressions of identity and ideas by young people that go beyond their experience of illness.

For more information about Helium Arts, visit: www.helium.ie.
Naas General Hospital (NGH) is proud to have been designated as an Academic Nurse Teaching Hospital in partnership with Trinity College Dublin, serving as one of the primary clinical bases and parent hospitals for the Bachelor of Science in General Nursing programme. Upon completion, nursing students will graduate as registered general nurses from both Trinity and Naas General Hospital. This partnership not only provides local training for nursing students but also fosters a pathway for them to begin their professional careers at NGH once they are qualified.

From this September, 12 nursing students will have the opportunity to complete their clinical placements at Naas General Hospital. These placements will include rotations in various healthcare settings across Kildare and West Wicklow, offering a broad and diverse clinical experience. This expansion is a result of a new academic partnership, building on an existing collaboration with the School of Nursing & Midwifery at Trinity.

Director of Undergraduate Teaching & Learning at the School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dr Aileen Lynch said, Our new full academic partnership with Naas General Hospital offers valuable opportunities for nursing students from Kildare and surrounding areas to complete the clinical practice element of the General Nursing programme, closer to home. Experience in clinical practice is a key component of the undergraduate curriculum. It ensures students acquire the necessary knowledge, professional competencies, and skills while receiving support and guidance within the clinical learning environment. Our longstanding relationship with Naas General Hospital has been instrumental in developing this initiative. We are proud to work collaboratively with Naas General Hospital colleagues and our other valued health service providers to continue providing exceptional education and clinical training for the nurses of tomorrow.

Naas General Hospital offers a comprehensive range of medical and surgical placements, including both general and specialist areas. These include specialised placements in the Emergency Department, Operating Theatre and care for the elderly services. Additionally, Naas General Hospital features a Coronary Care Unit, Intensive Care Unit, High Dependency Unit, Day Care Services including Oncology, Haematology, Day Hospital (focused on care of the older adult), Discharge Lounge, and Outpatients Department.

Chief Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Dublin Midlands Hospital Group, Eileen Whelan said,This exciting partnership between Trinity and Naas General Hospital offers undergraduate nursing students the opportunity to engage in clinical placements across a diverse range of general and specialist areas. Nursing is an amazing career and offers many career pathways for students, with 48 nursing students on site once the programme is fully operational, this initiative is a significant and welcome development for Naas General Hospital. It is also a key step in achieving the ambition of Slaintecare by increasing access to undergraduate training and once qualified thus increasing access to care in the community.

Nursing students will work alongside and be supported by both experienced nursing and clinical staff, Clinical Placement Coordinators, a Student Allocation Liaison Officer and a Nurse Practice Development Coordinator at Naas General Hospital.

Director of Nursing, Naas General Hospital, Anne Murphy said,We are thrilled about our collaboration with Trinity College Dublin. Naas General Hospital has a strong relationship with Trinity, providing clinical placements for nursing students from other undergraduate programmes for many years. Nursing students have consistently reported very positive experiences at NGH, so having our own students is a significant benefit for the hospital. This nursing programme will enable students to train and work locally. Achieving this milestone has been challenging and would not have been possible without the support of Chief Director of Nursing and Midwifery, Ms. Eileen Whelan, the dedicated team at Trinity and the Senior Management Team at NGH, both past and present.

Lectures and clinical skills training will be provided at Trinity and in the Trinity Centre for Health Sciences on the St. James's Hospital campus.

Nurse Practice Development Coordinator (Assistant Director of Nursing), Naas General Hospital, Elaine Harris added, We are delighted at Naas General Hospital to become a Full Academic Partner Hospital for undergraduate nursing students with Trinity. We are looking forward to welcoming the first cohort of nursing students in September 2024. These nursing students will spend 50% of their time completing academic study with Trinity, and the remaining 50% learning in a clinical setting right here in Naas. Naas General Hospital supports a positive learning culture, which is reflected in the numerous nursing development opportunities in nursing management and leadership, nursing education and specialist nursing posts in Naas General Hospital.

When students receive their course offer through the CAO, they will be asked to indicate their preferred hospital. Placements will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
As Ireland prepares to implement its new system of pension auto-enrolment in 2025, financial expert Dan Malone, from the National Pension Helpline, warns that this initiative alone will not necessarily address the multitude of pension problems currently facing the Nation.

There are a number of complex problems to be solved states Malone, referring to both Irelands fragile State pension system and the inadequacy of private pension pots held by individuals as but two of the core issues at play.

Ireland, like many European countries, is faced with an ageing population. The number of individuals aged 65 and over is set to double by 2050, without a corresponding increase in the number of workers. This, says Malone, will put considerable strain on Irelands social insurance fund, which is responsible for paying out State pension payments to retirees. Furthermore, analysis of private pensions in Ireland suggests that some 90% of workers are not on track for a financially comfortable retirement. So what you have is a system that is weak on both the State pension side and the private pension side.

Auto-enrolment, which essentially turns pensions into an opt-out rather than opt-in decision, will only solve the problem of pension coverage, says Malone. The Government will be able to say that they increased the number of people with private pensions from 68% to close to 100% but, in reality, auto-enrolment will do very little, at least at the beginning, in the way of ensuring that people have sufficiently sized pensions to support a comfortable lifestyle in retirement. Malone suggests that simply having a private pension is one thing, but having enough money in that private pension is another thing altogether.

As covered in detail by the National Pension Helpline, Irelands scheme of pension auto-enrolment seeks to improve retirement savings for workers aged 23 to 60 who are currently outside the private pension system. By automatically enrolling eligible workers into a pension, the Government hopes to increase the number of individuals actively saving for retirement. The scheme will mandate pension contributions from employees, employers, and the Irish state. An employee earning 20,000 per annum would likely see a gross pension contribution from all sources equal to ~700 in year one of the scheme. The mandated percentage contributions are set to gradually increase over a ten year period.

But this, says Malone, is too little too late. An individual under the age of 30 can currently contribute 10 times more money to their private pension annually, through the likes of a PRSA, than theyll be able to contribute using auto-enrolment for the first three yearsand for those over the age of 60, its 26 times more money!. For someone looking to be proactive and optimal with their retirement savings, banking on auto-enrolment might not be the best bet. According to Malone, there are 10 things that people can consider doing when it comes to being proactive with their private pension:

Start early Scale the size of pension contributions over time Know where pension contributions are being invested Avoid excessive fees and charges on your pension Diversify pension investments Take advantage of employer matching Understand the limitations of the State pension Educate on the tax benefits of private pensions Know the options for pension drawdown in retirement Have conversations about pensions with friends and family!

Malone clarifies that the introduction of auto-enrolment in Ireland is definitely net-positive for Irish society. Its just important that people understand the limitations of the scheme and what it can and cant do for you. Indeed, it has become harder than ever to put money away for retirement as many people prioritise saving for a house of their own, oftentimes whilst battling increasingly unaffordable rental costs and the general cost of living in Ireland. As such, pensions are commonly being viewed as a distant concern rather than an immediate priority. Despite this, everything we know about effective pension planning supports starting early and investing often, says Malone, but its totally understandable why it [pension investing] falls low on the pecking order.

This is especially true in a world where pensions arent commonly seen in wider society as sexy or cool investments especially when compared at face value to, say, investing in stocks or cryptocurrencies. But according to Malone, pensions should, for most people, be the number one investment priority and pension contributions should be viewed as automatic and almost mandatory deductions from ones gross salary each month.

As Ireland moves forward with auto-enrolment, its crucial for individuals to recognise the limitations of the scheme and to take proactive steps towards securing their financial futures. With the Irish State pension equalling just 277.30 per week, this alone is far from sufficient to sustain the lifestyle that the average worker has enjoyed up until retirement. As such, engagement with a private pension is fundamentally important. For many, getting comprehensive and trusted advice from a qualified financial advisor will be the first step towards a comfortable and financially secure retirement.
Agri Aware welcomed over 3,000 people to its Open Farm event on the Byrne family farm in Co. Kildare across two days.

This years Open Farm event saw the addition of a schools day on Friday, June 14th, which saw 450 primary school students get a tour of the farm, while on the Saturday, June 15th, just over 2,550 people attended the general public day.

Open Farm is Agri Awares flagship event in enhancing agricultural literacy and it was a resounding success.

Stephen and Aine Byrnes dairy farm just outside Monasterevin was the location for this years event which saw people far and wide travel to learn about Irish agriculture and where they food they consume comes from.

Stephen and Aine said the schools day was of utmost importance to them, as no textbook will educate the next generation better on where their food comes from than seeing it in person and hearing about its production from industry experts.

The general public day on Saturday saw just over 2,550 attend who were treated to a self-guided tour of the farm, cookery, milking and shearing demos, panel discussions, a machinery display, games for the kids, tasty food and complementary Mooju milk drinks supplied by Tirlan who the Byrnes supply their milk to.

Most importantly, attendees got a 360 of Irish agriculture on the day, seeing first hand where the food they consume originates from and how it is being produced in a sustainable manner on a farm that prides itself on the environmental measures it is implementing.

Speaking at the conclusion of the event, Agri Aware Chairman Shay Galvin said: Agri Awares mission of enhancing agricultural literacy is not possible without the support of people like Stephen and his family who opened up their farm to host this event who we are very thankful to.

Consumers are further becoming removed from farms and knowing about where the food they consume comes from. Events like Open Farm help to bridge that gap between the producer and consumer  which is critical.

The addition of the schools day on the Friday to this years event was extremely important to the Byrnes as they see first hand how urban sprawling has further removed consumers from farming and knowing how their food is produced.

The schools day allowed primary schools children to get an understanding of just that and show them that it is on their doorstep  which can be forgotten about sometimes by many young and old.

Id like to further thank our sponsors The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine, The National Dairy Council, the Irish Farmers Association and Tirlan for their continued support of this event and all our patrons who contributed to the success of the event.

Lastly, Id like to thank everyone who attended Open Farm, without you it wouldnt have been the success it was. We are already looking forward to and thinking ahead to next years event.
Following the shock resignation of Green Party leader Eamon Ryan RTE Prime Time hosted Michael Healy-Rae and party colleague Roisin Garvey.

When Miriam O'Callaghan asked the member of the Seanad Roisin Garvey who she thinks will step up as new Green Party leader she said:

"I think we have a good choice, we have a good range. I don't know who is running." When asked who she would go for she said, "It is hard to know, they have to sell it to us, we're all members, we'll vote equally." Also remarking that the members of the Green Party have not been canvased to yet before Michael Healy-Rae spoke up and said: "I don't think they'll be queuing up!"

Roisin Garvey went on to mention names such as Steven Matthews, Joe O'Brien, Ossian Smyth, Roderic O'Gorman, and Pippa Hackett

On the day @EamonRyan announced that he is to step down as leader of the @greenparty_ie, his party colleague @RoisinGarvey tells @MiriamOCal that there will be multiple contenders in the forthcoming leadership race.



WATCH:@rtenews | #rtept pic.twitter.com/sRF6p6T02Y  RTE Prime Time (@RTE_PrimeTime) June 18, 2024

Social media has reacted to the programme with users writing: "The leadership is not a posion chalice, but rather, a death trap, and at least Ryan, eventually copped on to this fact, as he would never be elected, anywhere again."

Another user writes: "Green Party spoiled for choice. Clowns and Comedians."

With users writing that Roisin Garvey got the better of the exchanges with Michael Healy-Rae:

"What an excellent performance by Roisin Garvey absolutely taking Michael Healy-Rae with his fact-free populist raimeis."
Funding of 1,185,712m from Failte Ireland has been confirmed for the development of the Lough Key Project in Roscommon.

This project is among 22 nationwide that have collectively received 27.1 million under Failte Irelands EU Just Transition Regenerative Tourism and Placemaking Scheme.

Speaking after the confirmation today (Wednesday), local Deputy Frank Feighan has said, This funding, co-financed by the Government and the EU, will enable Roscommon County Council and Coillte to advance their development plans for Lough Key Forest Amenity.

This initiative, jointly supported by the Government and the European Union, not only creates new job opportunities and boosts the local economy in Roscommon, but also promotes biodiversity, supporting a greener, more sustainable, and low-carbon future.

Deputy Frank Feighan and Fine Gael local election candidate Dympna Daly Finn in Lough Key Forest Park.

The funded projects align with our national move towards a low-carbon economy, consistent with the Programme for Governments commitment to a Sustainable Tourism Policy, fostering sustainable economic growth and job creation in Roscommon.

The specific funding provides for a detailed design and planning for increased capacity and range of activities to realise the ambitious strategy and masterplan objectives for Lough Key Forest Park. This project is in collaboration with Coillte.

Tourism is crucial in diversifying income streams and enhancing employment prospects that are deeply connected to our local resources.

By investing in tourism, we not only enhance recreational opportunities but also contribute to environmental conservation, fostering sustainable growth and prosperity for our community.

I eagerly anticipate the completion of these projects and the positive effects they will have on North Roscommon and the Boyle area. This marks a significant step forward in our efforts to create a vibrant, sustainable future for all locals and visitors alike in the Boyle area, concluded Deputy Feighan.
Sligo Leitrim TD Marian Harkin has called on the Government to reduce the VAT rate in the West to 5% for the tourism and hospitality sector.

Speaking on a Dail motion introduced by the Rural Independent Group to bring the VAT rate in the tourism and hospitality sectors down to 9% Ms Harkin welcomed the suggestion contained in the motion that Ireland should follow the example of countries like Italy, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Romania and Portugal who have used the EU Reduced VAT Rates Directive to deliver lower VAT rates for peripheral areas.

Dublin has much greater opportunity to host major events, national and international, whether it is concerts or sporting events.

For instance, half of Sligo will be in Croke Park next Sunday to support the black and white. Dublin has the venues and the opportunities to host all these major events, meanwhile, tourism is really suffering in regions outside the capital and needs every bit of support it can get. In that regard we can see how the steeply reduced VAT rate is working in other EU countries, Ms Harkin said.

At the very least we need to look at a pilot program for one to two years where we would have a lower VAT rate on hospitality business outside of Dublin. The North west would be an ideal location because, first of all, it is by definition rural and peripheral but crucially, it is beside the border with Northern Ireland and the lowering of the VAT rate would be hugely significant in equalizing the cost between running a business North and South border and giving those businesses a real chance of survival.

One of the crucial issues for many towns in the areas that I represent is that hotels have been taken over to provide accommodation for Ukrainians, Deputy Harkin continued, and local tourism businesses, whether it's a local restaurant, an activity centre, a souvenir shop or a local tea shop have all suffered greatly because there is no footfall in the context of either national or international tourism since the Government took over the local hotels.

The very least the Government can do is to now reduce the VAT rate for those tourism businesses that rely partly or largely on the tourists that would otherwise have stayed in those hotels. I'm thinking of places like Rosses Point in Sligo, Bundoran in Donegal, indeed all of North Leitrim, Ballinamore in South Leitrim and many other towns where some or all of the tourism accommodation is no longer available for tourists.

I have a letter here from the proprietors of a restaurant in a town in my constituency telling me their business has dropped by 20% since the local hotel was devoted to hosting Ukrainian refugees. Meanwhile energy costs continue to increase, supplier costs go through the roof and there is no support coming from Government.

This is one of the many letters, emails and messages I have received from small businesses and I believe that reducing the VAT rate to 9% or further lowering it lowering it to 5% in peripheral regions would pay dividends to those businesses, their communities and in the final analysis to Revenue, Deputy Harkin concluded
A man has avoided going to prison after he left images of children in sexual poses on two USB computer sticks at a hostel in Letterkenny.

Robert Browne, who is now also known as Robert Brennan, appeared at Letterkenny Circuit Court.

The 52-year-old pleaded guilty to knowingly having in his possession child pornography to wit, five anime images depicting prepubescent children in nude poses and engaging in sex acts, four photographic images depicting naked poses of young teenage females.

The offence is contrary to Section 6(1) of the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act, 1998.

The court heard staff at the Apple Hostel in Letterkenny came across the computer sticks under a pillow while cleaning a room when Browne had left after a stay there on July 27, 2016.

They viewed the images and contacted the manager who in turn contacted Gardai in Letterkenny.

Local Gardai sent the USB sticks to the Computer Crime Investigation Unit at Harcourt Square in Dublin who analysed them.

The court heard that there were a total of nine images, five of which were described as anime and depicted children in nude poses and engaging in acts of a sexual nature.

There were also four photo images depicting young female children in naked poses.

Browne, with an address at Birkenhead, Merseyside, UK, had been in Letterkenny for a "trip down memory lane" having studied at Letterkenny Institute of Technology.

He had previously been prosecuted in England for having more than 1,500 similar images on two laptops at his home and had received a suspended jail sentence.

Some of the images from the USB sticks were the same images which had appeared on his two laptops, the court was told

His barrister, Mr Shane Costelloe, SC, said his client had been interviewed at Westport Garda Station in relation to the USB sticks and had made immediate confessions.

He told Gardai of the previous incident and how he did not want to leave the images on the USB sticks behind him in the UK.

Garda Sergeant Maurice Doyle of Letterkenny Garda Station outlined the incident which led Browne to being arrested by Gardai.

Mr Costelloe said his client was a sex addict who attended counselling and who also counselled others.

He is disgusted and ashamed of himself, has attended court at all times and appeared at the earliest chance of a signed plea of guilty, Mr Costelloe added.

The accused has been a member of Sex Addicts Anonymous since 2018 and has undertaken a 12 Steps Programme and is a sponsor for other sex addicts.

Browne or Brennan had also worked and donated more than 17,000 to the charity to help other sex addicts get help for their condition.

Although from Ireland originally, he lives abroad but no longer works in a field where he has interaction with young people or children.

Mr Costelloe added that a probation report carried out on his client speaks of his ongoing efforts to rehabilitate himself and how he fully accepts that at the time he was "out of control" but that he now understands his "chronic sex addiction".

Reflecting on his client's lengthy efforts at rehabilitation, Mr Costelloe suggested the accused is "not somebody who is likely to commit similar type offences or engage in such acts again."

Passing sentence, Judge John Aylmer said he was placing the offending for such matters on the lower end of the scale because of the nature and the volume of the material and, before mitigation, it merited a sentence of 18 months in prison.

He said he also noted the decision of the courts in the UK in dealing with a larger volume of material was a 12 month sentence suspended over two years.

Judge Aylmer said the delay in dealing with this case was unfortunate but pointed to Covid and also the large volume of cases being dealt with by Gardai at Harcourt Square.

He added that it does appear that the accused does not want to be involved in this type of behaviour again and noted his efforts at rehab, his early plea, his donation of 17,000 to charity and the fact that he has no previous convictions in this jurisdiction.

He also noted that a probation report is "unusually favourable."

Because of all these factors, he proposed to reduce that sentence of 18 months to one of 12 months.

However, because of the level of rehabilitation he was proposing to suspend the entirety of the sentence for 12 months providing the accused enter a bond to keep the peace and be of good behaviour for 12 months.

He is also to sign on the sex offenders register.
Yorbeau Resources Inc. Announces Election of Directors





MONTREAL, June 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Yorbeau Resources Inc. (TSX: YRB) ("Yorbeau" or the "Company") announces that the nominees listed in the Company's management proxy circular dated May 17, 2024 were elected as directors of Yorbeau. The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors held at the annual general meeting of shareholders on June 18, 2024 in Montreal are set out below.



Nominee Votes

For %

For Votes

Withheld %

Withheld G. Bodnar Jr. 166,664,888 99.86% 230,815 0.14% John Jacobsen 166,883,888 99.99% 11,815 0.01% Henri Gelinas 166,670,138 99.86% 225,565 0.14% Terry Kocisko 166,666,938 99.86% 228,765 0.14% Marcel Lecourt 166,500,513 99.76% 395,190 0.24% Jerome Gendron 166,504,513 99.77% 391,190 0.23% Dany Laflamme 166,889,138 100.00% 6,565 0.00%

About Yorbeau Resources Inc.

Yorbeau Resources is a Canadian public company (TSX: YRB) involved in gold and base metal exploration in Quebec, Canada. Its properties are in northwestern area of the province containing many significant deposits on the famed Abitibi Greenstone Belt, including major gold mines along the Larder Lake-Cadillac Break and several volcanic centers hosting major copper-zinc-gold deposits.

Yorbeau is focusing on its Rouyn Gold and Scott Lake Zinc-Copper projects which have demonstrated the most immediate and substantial prospects for discovery and eventual mine development. While Scott is very favorably located in the Chibougamau mining camp, Rouyn represents a consolidation of several contiguous properties strategically located on the famously productive Cadillac Break in the Rouyn?Noranda Mining Camp. Other holdings of the Company include its interest in the past producing Joutel Gold Mining Camp and the Beschefer Property adjacent to SOQUEM's B-26 deposit in the Selbaie Mine area. For additional information on the Company, consult its website at www.yorbeauresources.com.

For further information, please contact:

G. Bodnar Jr.

President, Chief Financial Officer

Yorbeau Resources Inc.

[email protected]

Tel: 514-384-2202

Toll free in North America: 1-855-384-2202

18 june 2024 at 17:35

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More incentives for unions to go on strikes with Bill C-58 passing in the Senate





TORONTO, June 19, 2024 /CNW/ - The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is extremely disappointed by Monday's Senate third reading vote to pass Bill C-58. By further limiting the use of replacement workers during strikes or lockout in federally regulated workplaces, Ottawa is giving large unions more power and incentives to go on strikes more frequently.

Replacement workers are rarely used by employers in strikes or lockouts and can never replace large-scale operational units. But they can be used strategically to keep key functions going during a strike. It's also one of the very few powers employers have to keep negotiations going, as Canada's labour laws are already heavily tilted in favour of organized labour. Removing this option for employers could have major negative consequences during crucial upcoming negotiations between federally regulated employers and unions.

A strong majority of CFIB members don't support a ban on the use of replacement workers. Every time work stoppages shut down essential services, they put our economy further at risk at the expense of small businesses, their employees and the people they serve. Unfortunately, Members of Parliament have shown that catering to unions at this time is more politically advantageous than doing the right thing for small businesses and the economy.

- Jasmin Guenette, Vice-President, National Affairs, CFIB

About CFIB

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada's largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 97,000 members across every industry and region. CFIB is dedicated to increasing business owners' chances of success by driving policy change at all levels of government, providing expert advice and tools, and negotiating exclusive savings. Learn more at cfib.ca.

SOURCE Canadian Federation of Independent Business

19 june 2024 at 07:30

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Collective Mining is Adding a Sixth Drill Rig and Commences a VTEM/ZTEM Geophysical Survey at the Guayabales Project





TORONTO, June 19, 2024 /CNW/ - Collective Mining Ltd. (TSX: CNL) (OTCQX: CNLMF) (FSE: GG1) ("Collective" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that a comprehensive airborne geophysical survey covering the Company's Guayabales Project in Caldas, Colombia will commence in the coming days. The Company is fully funded for its 2024 budget with US$23.6 million in its treasury as of May 16, 2024.

Additionally, a sixth drill rig is being mobilized to the Guayabales Project as part of its fully funded 40,000 metres drill program for 2024. Drill rigs are currently operating at the Apollo, Box, Olympus and Trap targets with the sixth rig to commence drilling for the first time at the grassroot generated X target located in the southern portion of the project area. Drill cores from multiple holes are currently being assayed at ALS Laboratory in Lima, Peru with results expected in short order.

Ari Sussman, Executive Chairman commented: "The enormous potential of our Guayabales Project has already been proven based on the number of discoveries that we have made by drilling within the confines of areas defined by limited outcrop exposure. Since over 90% of the project remains under cover, commissioning an airborne VTEM and ZTEM survey makes a lot of sense to assist us in outlining new targets in areas with no outcrop. In particular, we are excited to use the results to refine planned future drilling at the Plutus target given its sheer scale and lack of outcropping rock to sample."

Highlights (see Figure 1)

The airborne geophysical program will be undertaken by Geotech Ltd. and will cover a total area of 74 km2 with 1,449 flight line kilometres (100 metre line spacing) and includes helicopter borne Versatile Time-domain Electromagnetic (VTEM) and Z-Axis Tipper Electromagnetic system (ZTEM) surveys. The primary objective of the program is to detect conductive sulphide bearing ore bodies, similar to the Apollo system, at depths beginning directly below the surficial cover to up to 2,000 metres depth.

The Company's exploration team has recently completed petrophysical measurements on 13 kilometres of drill core from the Apollo system, which highlights a strong and distinctive conductivity signature related to the sulphide minerals and associated alteration. This work endorses the effectiveness and application of the airborne survey methodologies selected.

The Guayabales project area has very limited outcrop exposure (<10%) due to extensive cover material caused by historic landslides and surficial ash deposits and exploration drilling to date has been focused exclusively on limited areas with good soil and rock assays. The airborne survey will enable our exploration team to develop drill targets in these covered areas, including the large Plutus target where reconnaissance drilling in 2023 intercepted 136.45 metres @ 1.31 g/t AuEq (Hole #PNC-2, see press release dated October 11, 2023 ).

The airborne surveys will be completed in July 2024 with processing of data and interpretation expected before the end of Q3, 2024. Drilling on new targets generated from the survey could commence as early as Q4, 2024.

Figure 1: Plan View of the Guayabales Project With ZTEM-VTEM Geophysical Survey Extension Announced in This Release

About Collective Mining Ltd.

To see our latest corporate presentation and related information, please visit www.collectivemining.com

Founded by the team that developed and sold Continental Gold Inc. to Zijin Mining for approximately $2 billion in enterprise value, Collective is a copper, silver, gold and tungsten exploration company with projects in Caldas, Colombia. The Company has options to acquire 100% interests in two projects located directly within an established mining camp with ten fully permitted and operating mines.

The Company's flagship project, Guayabales, is anchored by the Apollo system, which hosts the large-scale, bulk-tonnage and high-grade copper-silver-gold-tungsten Apollo porphyry system. The Company's 2024 objective is to expand the Apollo system, prove that the recent discoveries at the Olympus and Trap targets evolve into large scale systems and make a new discovery at either the Box, Tower or X targets.

Management, insiders, a strategic investor and close family and friends own nearly 50% of the outstanding shares of the Company and as a result, are fully aligned with shareholders. The Company is listed on the TSX under the trading symbol "CNL", on the OTCQX under the trading symbol "CNLMF" and on the FSE under the trading symbol "GG1".

Qualified Person (QP) and NI43-101 Disclosure

David J Reading is the designated Qualified Person for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and verified that the technical information contained herein is accurate and approves of the written disclosure of same. Mr. Reading has an MSc in Economic Geology and is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and of the Society of Economic Geology (SEG).

Technical Information

Z?Tipper Axis Electromagnetic (ZTEM), exclusive to Geotech Ltd. and a first in the geophysical business, is an airborne electromagnetic survey system which detects anomalies in the earth's natural magnetic field, whereas the now well-known VTEM (Versatile Time-domain Electromagnetic) system uses electromagnetic signals to locate conductive anomalies as well as mapping lateral and vertical variation in resistivity. These disruptions are caused by zones of rock that conduct or resist electrical current more than the surrounding rock, like ore deposits.

Information Contact:

Follow Executive Chairman Ari Sussman (@Ariski73) on X

Follow Collective Mining (@CollectiveMini1) on X, (Collective Mining) on LinkedIn, and (@collectivemining) on Instagram

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussion with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often, but not always using phrases 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) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information. In this news release, forward-looking information relate, among other things, to: anticipated advancement of mineral properties or programs; future operations; future recovery metal recovery rates; future growth potential of Collective; and future development plans.

These forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding the direction of our business. Management believes that these assumptions are reasonable. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others: risks related to the speculative nature of the Company's business; the Company's formative stage of development; the Company's financial position; possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery rates; actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of future economic evaluations; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, precious and base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets; change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formation pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the annual information form of the Company dated April 7, 2022. Forward-looking information contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or results, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

SOURCE Collective Mining Ltd.

19 june 2024 at 07:30

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Stingray Announces Reduction of Board Nomination Rights for Telesystem Investors





MONTREAL, June 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stingray Group Inc. ("Stingray" or the "Corporation") (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B) today announces that it has been informed that the 5,000,000 multiple voting shares of the Corporation ("Multiple Voting Shares") held by Telesysteme Media Can Inc. have been voluntarily converted (the "Conversion Event") into 5,000,000 subordinate voting shares of the Corporation ("Subordinate Voting Shares").



Following the Conversion Event, the Telesystem Investors (as that term is defined in the Nomination Rights Agreement) are now entitled to designate one member (down from three members) of the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the "Board") pursuant to the nomination rights agreement dated as of June 3, 2015, as amended, between the Corporation, Eric Boyko, 8242003 Canada Inc., 8978832 Canada Inc., Boyko Investments Corporation and Telesysteme Ltee (the "Nomination Rights Agreement"), and will remain entitled to designate one member of the Board until such time as they cease to hold more than 2.5% of the voting rights attached to all of the outstanding shares of Stingray. The Boyko Investors (as that term is defined in the Nomination Rights Agreement) currently remain entitled to designate four members of the Board (out of ten) pursuant to the Nomination Rights Agreement.

About Stingray

Stingray (TSX: RAY.A; RAY.B), a global music, media, and technology company, is an industry leader in TV broadcasting, streaming, radio, business services, and advertising. Stingray provides an array of music, digital, and advertising services to enterprise brands worldwide, including audio and video channels, over 100 radio stations, subscription video-on-demand content, FAST channels, karaoke products and music apps, and in-car and on-board infotainment content. Stingray Business, a division of Stingray, provides commercial solutions in music, in-store advertising solutions, digital signage, and AI-driven consumer insights and feedback. Stingray Advertising is North America's largest retail audio advertising network, delivering digital audio messaging to more than 30,000 major retail locations. Stingray has close to 1,000 employees worldwide and reaches 540 million consumers in 160 countries. For more information, visit www.stingray.com.

Early Warning Disclosure by Telesysteme Ltee

Immediately prior to the Conversion Event described above, Telesysteme Ltee ("Telesysteme"), an affiliate of Telesysteme Media Can Inc. had control over 5,000,000 Multiple Voting Shares and 500,000 Subordinate Voting Shares, representing approximately 8.02% of the total shares outstanding of Stingray and approximately 21.95% of the total voting rights outstanding of Stingray (all percentages as at May 31, 2024), and currently files early warning reports pursuant to the requirements of Regulation 62-103 respecting the Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and lnsider Reporting Issues and Regulation 62-104 respecting Take-Over Bids and lssuer Bids with respect to Stingray. An amended early warning report, stating that Telesysteme's voting interest in Stingray has decreased to approximately 2.97% (as at May 31, 2024), as a result of the Conversion Event will be filed with the applicable securities regulatory authorities and will be made available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. For further information or to obtain a copy of the amended early warning report filed by Telesysteme, please contact Lucie Therrien at (514) 397-8459.

Early Warning Disclosure by Eric Boyko

Immediately prior to the Conversion Event described above, Eric Boyko ("EB"), President, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of the Corporation had control over 12,941,498 Multiple Voting Shares and 1,551,552 Subordinate Voting Shares, representing approximately 21.14% of the total shares outstanding of Stingray and approximately 56.93% of the total voting rights outstanding of Stingray (all percentages as at May 31, 2024), and currently files early warning reports pursuant to the requirements of Regulation 62-103 respecting the Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and lnsider Reporting Issues and Regulation 62-104 respecting Take-Over Bids and lssuer Bids with respect to Stingray. An amended early warning report, stating that EB's voting interest in Stingray has increased to approximately 70.78% (as at May 31, 2024) as a result of the Conversion Event will be filed with the applicable securities regulatory authorities and will be made available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. For further information or to obtain a copy of the amended early warning report filed by EB, please contact Lloyd Perry Feldman at (514) 664-1244 (ext. 2428).

19 june 2024 at 08:00

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Mithaq Responds to Misleading Claims in Aimia Video





TORONTO, June 19, 2024 /CNW/ - Mithaq Capital SPC ("Mithaq"), the largest shareholder of Aimia Inc. (TSX: AIM) ("Aimia" or the "Company"), today responded to certain misleading claims made by Aimia representatives in a video interview posted to Aimia's website regarding Aimia's strategic direction and its relationship with Mithaq. While the board of directors of Aimia (the "Board") continues to demonstrate an unwillingness to engage productively with its most significant shareholder, Mithaq feels compelled to respond to these misleading claims in the interest of ensuring that shareholders can make an informed decision at the upcoming contested annual meeting of Aimia shareholders to be held on June 26, 2024 (the "Meeting").

As previously disclosed, Mithaq has nominated six individuals (the "Mithaq Nominees") for election to the Board at the Meeting pursuant to Aimia's advance notice by-law (by-law no. 2013-1). Aimia shareholders willing to express their support for the Mithaq Nominees should vote using the GOLD form of proxy or GOLD voting instruction form accompanying the Mithaq circular prior to 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on Friday, June 21, 2024 . Shareholders who have questions or require assistance may contact Mithaq's proxy solicitor, Carson Proxy, for more information by North American toll-free phone at 1-800-530-5189, local phone or text at 416-751-2066 or by email at [email protected]

Mithaq has ownership of, or control or direction over, a total of 26,893,588 common shares of Aimia, representing approximately 26.98% of the issued and outstanding common shares.

A Board Without Significant Equity Ownership

When asked why he became involved with Aimia, the current Executive Chairman responded that "first and foremost, I'm an investor, and I've bought more shares recently in the Company". Mithaq finds the emphasis on equity ownership as justification for his current role perplexing given that he and the current Board have campaigned to prevent Mithaq, the Company's largest shareholder, from obtaining any representation at the Board level. The Executive Chairman was appointed concurrently with the dilutive private placement undertaken by Aimia in October 2023. Together with others associated with Aimia's financial advisor, he acquired shares at a deeply discounted price of $3.10 for both a share and purchase warrant in an effort to thwart Mithaq's outstanding takeover bid for $3.66 per share. According to public filings, the Executive Chairman owns a mere 0.3% of the issued and outstanding shares and all seven management nominees own only 0.8% of the issued and outstanding shares. Five of the seven management nominees, including the Executive Chairman, have never been elected to the Board by shareholders and they have demonstrated a willingness to waste significant Company resources to prevent a shareholder that has a 26.98% interest in the Company from having any say in its governance and strategic direction.

Sweetheart Related Party Deal with Paladin

The Executive Chairman stated that the arrangements with Paladin Private Equity, LLC ("Paladin") were bad for Aimia. Mithaq agrees, but the consideration paid, and the Board's decision to issue five million shares to a related party immediately before the record date for the Meeting, is an indefensible derogation of its fiduciary duties. Cashing out Paladin's carried interest one year into the investment, before any measurable performance has been achieved, demonstrates a concerning lack of business judgment. To make matters worse, Aimia had cash to pay Paladin, as demonstrated by its subsequent announcements of the PLM earn-out payment and a $20 million normal course issuer bid, instead of issuing additional shares at the expense of pre-existing shareholders, a dilutive and defensive tactic that the Board seems content to repeat. If the Board truly believed this was a good deal for Aimia, and not just another dilutive share issuance to a friendly party to consolidate power, it would disclose to shareholders the details of the special committee process and valuation work done in connection with this transaction. Mithaq has requested on more than one occasion that Aimia make such disclosure in accordance with corporate governance best practices and applicable securities laws, but the Company has refused to provide any information.

Mithaq's Plans for Aimia

The current Board has not been able to resolve its dispute with Mithaq because it refuses to productively engage with its most significant shareholder and continues to waste significant Company resources to maintain control. If the Board and management have changed, as Aimia asserts, then why do they continue to adopt the same aggressive defensive tactics one year after Mithaq first made its concerns public? The current Board speaks of strategic review and unlocking shareholder value, but all this Board has done is take credit for the limited successes of prior Board members and further dilute Aimia shareholders. The current Board is using the same playbook and making the same empty promises as prior Board members.

Mithaq has articulated a clear 10-step plan to get Aimia on track, which is set out in detail in Mithaq's letter to shareholders dated June 3, 2024 available on Aimia's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. That plan has nothing to do with "running Aimia as a hedge fund", as alleged by the current Executive Chairman. Mithaq is not a hedge fund and does not invest in hedge funds. Mithaq will not take an executive leadership role and intends to focus on bringing valid shareholder perspectives to a Board charged with overseeing a competent management team and acting as responsible stewards of shareholder capital.

Potential Misconduct at Upcoming Meeting

Mithaq reiterates its warning to Aimia shareholders that it is very concerned about potential misconduct by the current Board at the Meeting. As previously disclosed, Mithaq formally requested on June 5, 2024 that Aimia cooperate with Mithaq in advance of the contested Meeting by setting certain standard protocols and procedures to avoid the extravagant legal and other advisor expenses incurred by Aimia unnecessarily following the 2023 annual meeting. Aimia continues to refuse these requests, which are customary in the context of a contested shareholder meeting, other than to confirm that the Meeting will have an independent chair, who Aimia will not identify.

As a result of Aimia's unwillingness to engage with its largest shareholder on matters that should be uncontroversial, Mithaq has been forced to seek assistance from the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Commercial List) in an urgent attendance on Thursday, June 20 at 10:00 a.m. (Toronto time). While Aimia could cooperate with Mithaq to ensure a transparent Meeting, it appears that Aimia instead plans to incur unnecessary legal costs at the expense of shareholders to resist Mithaq's uncontroversial and fair requests. This flagrant disregard for corporate governance and shareholder democracy should be unacceptable to shareholders.

ADVISORS

Mithaq has retained Carson Proxy as its proxy solicitor. Torys LLP is acting as legal counsel.

ABOUT MITHAQ

Mithaq is a segregated portfolio company and affiliate of Mithaq Holding Company, a decentralized family office headquartered in Saudi Arabia with investments in public equities, private equity, real estate and income-producing assets in local and international markets.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This document contains "forward-looking statements" (as defined under applicable securities laws). These statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect Mithaq's expectations, beliefs, plans, estimates, intentions, and similar statements concerning anticipated future events, results, circumstances, performance or expectations that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the conduct of the Board at the Meeting and the impact of the Mithaq Nominees, if elected, on the financial condition, results of operations and business strategies of Aimia, including specifically in connection with Mithaq's plans for Aimia, and other matters. Such forward-looking statements reflect Mithaq's current beliefs and are based on information currently available. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict", "potential", "continue", "target", "intend", "could" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology.

By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and a number of factors could cause actual events or results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements, readers should specifically consider various factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement. These factors include, but are not limited to, Aimia's results of operations and future cash flows; the future performance, business prospects and opportunities of Aimia; the election of the Mithaq Nominees; the ability of the Mithaq Nominees, if elected, to effect positive change at Aimia; the implementation and impact of Mithaq's plans for Aimia; the response to and outcome of any court applications that may be made against Mithaq or Aimia; the implementation and timing of Aimia's business strategy; the current general and regulatory environment and economic conditions remaining unchanged; the availability of financing and capital costs; Aimia's available cash resources; Aimia's ability to identify, attract and retain skilled staff; currency exchange rates; required capital investments; market competition; ongoing relations with employees and other stakeholders; and general business and economic conditions.

Although the forward-looking information contained in this document is based upon what Mithaq believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this document are made as of the date of this document and should not be relied upon as representing views as of any date subsequent to the date of this document. Except as may be required by applicable law, Mithaq does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, further developments or otherwise.

Neither Mithaq nor or any of its subsidiaries, affiliates, associates, officers, partners, employees, representatives and advisers make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the fairness, truth, fullness, accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this document or otherwise made available, nor as to the reasonableness of any assumption contained herein, and any liability therefore (including in respect of direct, indirect, consequential loss or damage) is expressly disclaimed. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied upon as, a promise or representation, whether as to the past or the future and no reliance, in whole or in part, should be placed on the fairness, accuracy, completeness or correctness of the information contained herein.

SOURCE Mithaq Capital SPC

19 june 2024 at 09:16

News published onand distributed by:
Statement by the Prime Minister on the result of South Africa's national elections





OTTAWA, ON, June 19, 2024 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the result of South Africa's national elections:

"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Cyril Ramaphosa on his re-election as President of South Africa.

"This year marks the 30th anniversary of the end of apartheid in South Africa ? an opportunity to celebrate the values of democracy and freedom. Canada and South Africa's friendship is built on these values and strengthened by vibrant people-to-people ties and shared work to promote security and prosperity. Over the years, we have worked together to advance democracy, climate action and protection of the environment, clean energy, as well as the promotion of women's empowerment. We are also partners in health co-operation, science and innovation, and many more shared priorities. And our ties only continue to grow stronger. Canada will always be thankful for the hundreds of South African wildland firefighters deployed in the summer of 2023 to support our communities during this challenging time.

"We will also continue to advance important global issues together through our continued partnership in world forums, such as the G20, the Commonwealth, the United Nations, and the World Trade Organization. Together, we'll continue to promote democratic and inclusive societies around the world and build a more prosperous future for Canadians and South Africans alike.

"I look forward to continue building on our shared efforts and creating a more peaceful, sustainable future for people in both countries."

This document is also available at https://pm.gc.ca

SOURCE Prime Minister's Office

19 june 2024 at 09:27

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Tsinghua University hosts dialogue on China-LAC investment, development





BEIJING, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- This is a report from China.org.cn

Ambassadors of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) to China gathered on Tuesday at Tsinghua University to discuss China's investments in and the development of LAC countries. Over 30 diplomatic envoys and representatives from 17 LAC countries attended the event.

In his welcome speech, Li Luming, president of Tsinghua University, highlighted the significant progress in China-LAC cooperation over the past decade within the framework of the China-CELAC Forum. He said the shift in Chinese investments toward "new infrastructure" industries, such as ICT, renewable energy, and high-end manufacturing, reflect a shared commitment to quality and sustainable development.

He also emphasized Tsinghua's dedication to expanding cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean partners, and said he looks forward to building on collective expertise and positive expectations to reach a thriving future.

Fernando Lugris, Uruguayan ambassador to China, described the event as "timely" and "meaningful." He discussed China's pivotal role in the sustainable development of the LAC region, and said China is a key partner with Uruguay in trade, finance, and investment. With this year being the 10th anniversary of the China-CELAC Forum, Lugris called for increased high-quality Chinese investments in sectors like science, technology, and innovation.

Cai Wei, director general of the Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said China's investment and development initiatives in the LAC region are driven by principles of equality, mutual benefit, and cultural inclusivity. He said he hopes the two sides can uphold openness, continue to collaborate, reject protectionism, and together promote global economic recovery.

Also at the event, Chen Taotao, director of Tsinghua University's Latin American Center, spoke on China's current and future investments in the LAC region. In addition, Liao Ying, director of the Center for Global Competence Development at Tsinghua University, introduced initiatives for enhancing Tsinghua students' global competence and overseas experiences.

Ambassadors from LAC countries also engaged in a roundtable discussion on the event's theme. They echoed the significance of the event in fostering mutual understanding, and expressed hopes to strengthen exchange and cooperation with Tsinghua University.

In his closing remarks, Yang Bin, vice president of Tsinghua University, said the strong, growing relationship between China and LAC countries is built on mutual understanding and cooperation despite geographical distances. The event will undoubtedly pave the way for more pragmatic cooperation in areas such as economic development, youth empowerment, artificial intelligence, and online education, Yang said.

The event was hosted by Tsinghua University and co-organized by the university's Latin America Center, the Institute for Global Development, the Center for Global Competence Development, and the Center for China-Latin America Management Studies of the School of Economics and Management.

Tsinghua University hosts dialogue on China-LAC investment, development

http://www.china.org.cn/china/2024-06/19/content_117262723.htm

SOURCE China.org.cn

19 june 2024 at 10:00

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Christian Tein, head of the CCAT (Cell for the Coordination of On-the-Ground Actions), attends the first general assembly of the organisation held at the Azareu tribe in Bourail, French Pacific territory of New Caledonia, on June 14, 2024. DELPHINE MAYEUR / AFP

French police arrested eight people in Pacific territory New Caledonia on Wednesday, June 19, prosecutors said, including one of the leaders of the pro-independence CCAT movement that had organised weeks of sometimes deadly unrest last month, the public prosecutor confirmed to Agence France-Presse (AFP).

CCAT chief Christian Tein was the only detainee named by Yves Dupas, the chief prosecutor in New Caledonia's capital Noumea, as being arrested for "organised crime" offences, under which they can be held for up to 96 hours. Dupas said CCAT's offices had been searched "without incident."

The pro-independence activist group CCAT was created in November last year to oppose the electoral reform plans. Paris has blamed it for violence since the start of the riots in New Caledonia, with Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin calling it a "mafia-style organisation."

Police on Wednesday surrounded the headquarters of the pro-independence Caledonian Union (UC) party in Noumea, which also hosts CCAT's offices, according to an AFP journalist. Officers had cleared a street barricade, while several eyewitnesses said they had also searched the building. Police had set up a massive security perimeter around their central Noumea headquarters, where the detainees were being held. Surrounding roads were closed to traffic, an AFP journalist saw, while many shops, banks and government offices had closed by late morning.

"Law enforcement entered the offices and took photos, especially of documents," said Reine Hue, a UC elected official from the Loyalty Islands province east of New Caledonia's main island. The UC denounced Wednesday's "abusive" arrests in a statement, charging that "local anti-independence leaders and criminal militiamen are able to swagger about in total freedom." But the party also urged followers "not to respond to the provocation," calling for calm until more was known about the arrests.

Violence erupted in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia on May 13 over French plans to update the electoral roll to include people with more than 10 years' residency. Indigenous Kanak people feared that the move would leave them in a permanent minority in the territory and put independence definitively out of reach.

Nine people including two police officers have been killed, hundreds wounded, and around 1.5 billion of damage inflicted. France responded by sending more than 3,000 troops and police to New Caledonia  almost 17,000 kilometres from Paris.

Since then, the constitutional reform needed to change the territory's electoral law has de facto been abandoned, after President Emmanuel Macron dissolved parliament for a snap election on June 30 and July 7.

Read more Subscribers only New Caledonia: Insecurity persists as radicals continue to orchestrate the crisis
A Senat investigating committee called Wednesday for France to stop importing Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) and push for the fuel to face EU sanctions. The committee's report also urged the state to obtain special rights over French energy giant TotalEnergies' strategic decisions and major changes in shareholders.

The probe was launched in December at the instigation of Green lawmakers, but the report was adopted unanimously by committee members, although the upper house of parliament is dominated by an alliance of centrist and conservative lawmakers.

TotalEnergies sparked a political furore in France earlier this year when its chief executive Patrick Pouyanne floated the idea of moving the company's main stock listing from Paris to New York. The report urged the French state to get a "special share" that would give it influence over strategic decisions and changes in ownership of the company.

Read more Subscribers only The fuel, and controversies, that built TotalEnergies

It said such a move was justified given "the evolution of threats weighing up the energy sovereignty of France and Europe, the evolution of the shareholders structure of TotalEnergies." North American investors own a large portion of the company's shares.

The committee's report also called for France to take a leading position among European nations "by proposing the inclusion of Russian LNG to the list of sanctioned energy products and lead by example by halting as soon as possible the import of Russian LNG into France." Although deliveries of Russian gas to Europe by pipeline dried up after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, deliveries of LNG by ship continued, with TotalEnergies transporting the gas from Siberian fields to France. Western sanctions have targeted Russian crude and oil products, but have spared natural gas which is key for heating and industry.

Read more Subscribers only How TotalEnergies and France's foreign ministry work hand in hand

The report also called for French companies to halt starting new oil and gas projects or proceeding to new stages of projects underway in Azerbaijan, which will host the UN climate conference in November.

The committee was formed to look into the means the French state had available and was deploying to ensure TotalEnergies is meeting climate mandates and following French foreign policy goals. The report made a total of 33 recommendations to the state.
A summary of the article:

Tensions rise in Bangroma over an MOU with Bea Mining for relocating residents due to gold discovery. Co-Chairman rejects deal, accusing coercion, while Representative Feika denies claims. Division persists amidst community benefits.
Discount retailer Lidl Ireland is seeking planning permission to build coffee shops beside two of its stores in Limerick.

The firm has announced its intention to seek the go-ahead from Limerick City and County Council to develop the units at its outlets in Childers Road, near Ballinacurra, and Dublin Road in Castletroy.

According to a planning notice published in Limerick Leader newspaper, the free-standing cafe kiosks will serve take-away food and non-alcoholic beverages.

READ ALSO: Major revamp of former Limerick hotel approved despite objections

Its not clear who will run the cafe, with Lidl Ireland not returning a request for comment from the Limerick Leader / Limerick Live.

But at its store in Dock Road - opened last year - a cafe unit is in place there, and yet to be taken up.

City East councillor Peter Doyle has welcomed the potential for coffee kiosks at Lidl stores.

It helps to enhance the shopping experience. It will give people more choice, more places to go, he said.
A LIMERICK city school joined forces with people from across the community to raise funds for those affected by flooding in southern Brazil.

People from Our Lady of Lourdes school, the ABC club, Fairtrade group and other community activists joined together to raise 1,000 for the flood victims.

The Brazil tragedy was brought home to the community by Joana Ludwig Araujo, who is a teacher from Port Alegre, she is one of 30 teachers from Brazil doing a course in Mary Immaculate College.

The flooding from the Guaiba River in Port Alegre has left more than a million people completely blocked off, with the airport, bus station and main roads blocked.

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The school staff ran a coffee morning and raffle while pupils ran a colours day. The local Sit and Sip cafe ran a raffle with sponsored prizes.

A notice was also put into the parish newsletter and some generous donations were contributed.

Joana will bring the money back to Brazil this month when she goes back.
KERRY Dairy Ireland officially opened its new state-of-the-art Cheestrings facility in Charleville last week but it was comments made by CEO Pat Murphy that made headlines.

Mr Murphy, CEO of Kerry Dairy Ireland, said in an interview with Agriland: If the cost of production today is about 34-35c/l, well then the farmers are not making a bad return on that. Wed love for it to be more.

Mr Murphy noted that input costs are still high, but urged all farmers to put a plan in place to reduce their cost of production for the coming years.

If the best farmers can get the production cost down to 30c/l, why cant the other bunch of farmers do the same thing?. There are constraints around farm size and about the type of land, but we have to get better at reducing the cost of production, Mr Murphy told Agriland.

An earlier version of the article quoted a figure of 20c/l which was like a red rag to a bull for dairy farmers. It caused quite a stir on social media and WhatsApps were flying among farmer discussion groups.

One dairy farmer posted on X (formerly Twitter): I cant believe he said that. I looked at circa 75 sets of financial figures for 2023 of very good farmers and no one could do better than low 30s for cost of production. Average was 40c/l and that was before own labour, never mind tax and bank repay. Shocking comments.

Limerick IFA chairman Sean Lavery told Farm Leader Mr Murphys comments that Limerick's best and most efficient farmers were able to produce milk at 20c/l later changed to 30c/l was both careless, insulting and inaccurate.

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It was careless that it was made in the first case, insulting when every farmer knows that all input costs are up, and inaccurate when professional practitioners on the ground say that costs are nearer 40c/l, said Mr Lavery.

He said he has received numerous phone calls from Limerick dairy farmers complaining about the tone of the comments.

They said it confirmed their belief that Kerry is not listening to their farmer suppliers concerns around cost of production. Kerrys milk price lags the leading milk buyers.

If Kerry knows of suppliers who can produce milk at 30c/l they should hold an open day at that farm and demonstrate how it is done, said Mr Lavery.

Noel Murphy, chairperson of ICMSA dairy committee, called on Kerry Group to clarify its position in relation to the comments made and accept the absolutely obvious reality that the income that will be returned to dairy farmers in 2024  including Kerry suppliers - will in no way reflect the efforts made by dairy farmers.

There cant be any room for ambiguity on this and we  all of us involved in dairy farming - have to be very clear: a milk price of 41c/l will not return a level of income that is required to keep Irelands milk production at its current levels and milk production costs of 30c/l contained in media reports are unattainable and frankly the stuff of dreams given where input costs have gone over the last three years and the terrible weather conditions since June 2023.

The reality for any farmers today is that based on paying all costs including labour costs and debt, producing a litre of milk is going to cost in excess of 40c/l and if anyone needs evidence of this, then they should go and look at farmers bank accounts or even credit accounts with credit suppliers - who might be their co-ops, said Mr Murphy.

He said it is simply an observable fact that farmers ability to make the improvements and investments needed on water quality were completely dependent on the milk price they were paid and the income that generated.

There is an ongoing and crippling cash flow situation on Irish dairy farms and it has been like this for probably two years. Dairy incomes and milk production are way back, and milk processors would want to wake up to this reality fast and start supporting their farmer-suppliers based on realistic production costs.

We are surely owed that much and even at that minimum amount of support to which we are entitled, Im not sure its going to stop a slide in milk production that is beginning to look inevitable, said Mr Murphy.

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Farm Leader contacted Kerry Dairy Ireland over their CEOs comments. In response to the media query, a spokesperson said they acknowledge the concerns raised by our milk suppliers regarding a reference to milk production costs in a recent interview.

We regret any confusion this has caused and fully recognise that milk-production costs have and continue to be significantly higher than the figure referenced in the article. We recognise that farm margins remain highly challenged, a situation compounded by recent adverse weather conditions, said the spokesperson for Kerry Dairy Ireland.

The Kerry base milk price for May is 41c/l which compares to Dairygold at 42c/l and Arrabawn at 43.65c/l.

Farm Leader understands that dissatisfaction among some Kerry milk suppliers in Limerick extends so far that they are considering switching co-ops when their contracts with Kerry end with Dairygold believed to be interested in processing their milk due to their increased capacity in recent years.
TODAY, with the admission of liability and the public apology from the HSE, we can finally close this awful chapter in our pursuit of justice for our father, said Mike Daly Jnr outside the High Court.

University Hospital Limerick apologised and admitted liability in the case of his father, Michael Daly Snr, who died following complications from colorectal surgery.

Mr Daly Snr, aged 65, from Garryowen, passed away on April 7, 2010.

A verdict of medical misadventure was recorded at the second inquest into the death of Mr Daly in 2023. Two inquests for the same person is thought to be a first in the history of the State. A 2012 inquest found that Mr Daly Snr had died of cardiac failure due to natural causes.

A verdict of medical misadventure was recorded at the inquest last year by Limerick coroner John McNamara. It heard that a timely surgical procedure would have avoided the death of Mr Daly Snr who had been treated for rectal pain and bleeding for over two and half years and had a number of surgical procedures carried out in the Regional Hospital (now University Hospital Limerick).

It is fair to say he underwent a lot of tests and investigations at the hospital. It appears that the cause of his ongoing illness was never established, said Mr McNamara.

READ ALSO: 'Thank God it's finally over': Limerick family reacts to verdict following second inquest

Mr Dalys family took a case against the HSE. The case was settled on Thursday, June 13 in the High Court. A letter on behalf of UHL addressed to his widow Mary, was read to the court.

On behalf of University Hospital Limerick, we wish to offer you sincere sympathies on the death of Michael Daly. Regrettably, investigations have shown that aspects of the care received by Mr Daly did not reach the standards that could be expected. The hospital has admitted liability and apologises unreservedly to you and your family for the hurt, stress and upset caused, it said.

Speaking outside the High Court, Mr Daly Jnr said: On behalf of my mother, my siblings and myself, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the unconditional support of those who reached out to us over the years.

He said they have finally achieved recognition that their father's death was not due to natural causes but rather medical negligence.

Had the truth been told to us at the time, we would not have had to endure this prolonged struggle, which ultimately resulted in a historic second inquest into our fathers death in Ireland.

Today, with the admission of liability and the public apology from the HSE, we can finally close this awful chapter in our pursuit of justice for our father. Our case against the HSE has concluded.

However, it is important to highlight that most medical negligence cases involve a single incident. In our father's case, there were over 20 separate incidences of medical negligence, constituting a sustained pattern of negligence over a two-and-a-half-year period, ultimately leading to our fathers death, said Mr Daly.

It is imperative, he said, that what happened to our father never happens to another person again, and we hope that such an inquiry will ensure this.

Mr Daly thanked their legal nurse Anne Dowling, barrister Doireann OMahony, solicitor Dermot Conway and the Limerick corner John McNamara.
The 19-year old man accused of carrying out two "serious assaults" on board a flight that was forced to divert to Shannon last week was able to fly home from Dublin airport two days later, a court has heard.

At Ennis District Court today, solicitor for Jay Dalziel, Stiofan Fitzpatrick said that Mr Dalziel flew back from Dublin last Friday evening after a 5,000 cash surety was presented at Limerick prison earlier on Friday.

Mr Dalziel spent one night in Limerick prison after Judge Alec Gabbett remanded Mr Dalziel in custody with consent to bail last Thursday after Mr Dalziel appeared before court arising from an incident on board a Tenerife bound flight from Glasgow on Wednesday afternoon.

In the case, Mr Dalziel of Cornelia Street, Motherwell in Scotland appeared after being charged with two counts of assault causing harm against on board the Glasgow to Tenerife flight on Wednesday, June 12.

Mr Dalziel is also facing two breach of the peace charges contrary to Section 20 of the Air Navigation Act on board the jet2.com flight no L3155 on June 12 where he is accused of engaging in behaviour of a threatening, abusive or insulting nature whether by word or gesture with intent to cause of breach of the peace.

In the case, Mr Dalziel - who turned 19 at the end of last month - is charged with the assault causing harm of Amie Hendry and assault causing harm of John Mills country to Section 3 of the Offences against the Person Act 1997 on June 12.

The flight departed Glasgow at 3.30pm on Wednesday and diverted to Shannon airport shortly after following an incident on board.

Mr Dalziel was arrested by Gardai after the aircraft touched down and was brought to Shannon garda station and the flight continued its journey to Tenerife.

Explaining the requirement for the independent surety of 5,000 last Thursday, Judge Gabbett said: These are serious assault charges and it is important that I know someone is going to face trial.

Mr Dalziel was excused from attending court today and in court, Judge Gabbett said today there is potential for other charges there."

In reply, Mr Fitzpatrick said: There is a lot of potential for a lot of things.

Judge Gabbett said that Mr Dalziel was a very lucky man that his grandfather was available to provide an independent surety and accompany him back to Scotland.

Mr Fitzpatrick said it is a reflection on his client that his grandfather travelled so quickly to court.

Judge Gabbett said that he will be testing bail at some stage and require Mr Dalziel to attend court.

Directions from the DPP are still awaited and Sgt John Burke asked that the case be adjourned to July 24 for DPP directions.
A man who was caught helping to transport 6 million worth of cannabis hidden in a fake shoebox consignment has been jailed for six and a half years.

Ryon Fitzpatrick (34) was arrested along with two other men as they prepared to enter a derelict field in north county Dublin in October 2020.

The drugs were contained in a van full of shoeboxes, while Fitzpatrick was driving an accompanying look-out car which was driving in convoy with the van, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard today.

Fitzpatrick was arrested and questioned but not charged, and he moved to Spain a few months later, Detective Garda Val Russell told Garret McCormack BL, prosecuting. He was arrested in Spain last year after his car was pulled over and he was extradited to Ireland last December. He has been in custody since then.

Fitzpatrick, with an address at Cookstown Road, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, pleaded guilty to one count of possessing cannabis for sale or supply at Stockhole Lane, Cloghran, Swords, Co Dublin on October 23, 2020.

He has 13 previous convictions, mostly for road traffic offences.

The drugs had come into the country in a shipment from Bilbao, Spain and were intercepted by customs officials, the court heard. Gardai arranged for a controlled delivery of these drugs to a legitimate logistics centre in Dublin, which was put under surveillance.

The court heard that Fitzpatrick's co-accused  Anthony Kinghorn and Mark Nesbitt - travelled to Ireland from the UK and were seen by gardai leaving the logistics centre in a van on the day in question. They were accompanied by Fitzpatrick, who was driving a car.

Gardai stopped the men just as they were about to enter a derelict field in Swords. A total of 304 kilos of cannabis were found in shoe boxes in the back of the van, with an estimated street value of 6,080,000.

Fitzpatrick was also found to have a small amount of cocaine in his car, as well as three phones  one of which was encrypted with an app that criminal gangs use to communicate, the court heard.

He was carrying a fake document stating he worked for a pet shop and was an essential worker, which allowed him to travel during Covid lockdowns.

Gardai believe he was at around the mid level of a criminal gang.

Kinghorn (now 51) of Hatfield, Herdfordshire, London, England, pleaded guilty and was jailed for eight years in 2021. Nesbitt (now 53) of Whitefield House, Cecil Crescent, Hatfield, Hertfordshire in the UK was found guilty by a jury following a trial in 2022 and was also jailed for eight years.

John Fitzgerald SC, defending, said Fitzpatrick fled to Spain because he was under threat. He said he built a new life for himself over there, was working and was in a relationship.

He said Fitzpatrick grew up in a household with material advantages, but that his home life was characterised by alcohol and violence. He started taking drugs as a teenager and engaged in self-destructive behaviour.

He amassed a drug debt in the lead-up to this offence, which resulted in his involvement in the crime, counsel said. He is now drug-free and attempting to better his life while in custody, the court heard.

Sentencing Fitzpatrick today, Judge Pauline Codd said it was a serious crime involving a serious amount of drugs. She noted the attendant harm that causes.

She set a headline sentence of 11 and a half years but reduced it to nine years after mitigation. She suspended the final two and a half years of this sentence on a number of conditions.
Friends in Clare are rallying to help a little boy who is undergoing treatment for leukaemia.

Two-year-old Ultan Howard, from Fanore, Co Clare, is undergoing treatment for leukaemia in Dublin.

To show support to him and his family, friends and neighbours have set up a GoFundMe campaign, here.

Ultans parents explained his diagnosis in a note left on the fundraiser page.

"We just wanted to write a little note about our little hero Ultan. Last December, our world was turned upside down when Ultan was diagnosed with AML Leukemia. Ultan then went into spontaneous remission which meant the cancer in his blood went from 7% down to 0.045% through him fighting it himself. We were so grateful he did not need to have chemotherapy. Everyone in Crumlin was shocked, doctors and nurses alike, they had never seen a case like this before, explained the parents, Stephanie and and Patrick.

READ MORE: Heavy hearts after sudden death of Monaghan father-of-two in Australia

Ultan continued to have bloods taken weekly in Galway University Hospital which were all coming back with good results until May when we got the dreaded news that his Neutrophils had begun to drop. We were scheduled to have another Bone Marrow biopsy in May to check his progress but unfortunately to our disbelief we were notified that the cancer had returned. We were devastated. Ultan now has his first round of Chemotherapy over him and will be soon going for round two, they continued.

The little boy recently celebrated his second birthday in the hospital.

Our little darling Ultan celebrated his second birthday in Crumlin hospital on June 1st without his big brother, family and friends. Our lives have been turned upside down. We appreciate your support.
Car parking spaces at both Dublin and Shannon airports are completely sold out for some days during this years peak summer season, with holidaymakers warned to plan well in advance to secure spaces.

Millions of passengers are expected to pass through Ireland's busiest airports, as the summer season begins. Representatives from both airports fear that they will not be able to accommodate the high number of vehicles expected with the summer passenger surge.

Representatives from the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) will tell TDs and senators at an Oireachtas committee today that all options to add spaces have been exhausted as they give a presentation on summer readiness at Dublin airport.

Issues with Dublin airport parking spaces were already flagged ahead of the summer, with DAA warning then that parking would be tight on the May bank holiday weekend. The competition authority ruled out the acquisition of more parking spaces by DAA earlier this year as well.

Shannon airport has similarly struggled to host enough parking spaces, and the airport is advising holidaymakers to book car parking "at least" two weeks in advance of flights.

According to a Shannon airport spokesperson, the recommendation to pre-book so far ahead of time comes as peak season is in full swing.

By booking early, it's hoped that travellers can avoid disappointment and inconvenience while also getting the best price.

According to the Shannon Airport booking website, the Long Stay Green car park - just two to three minutes walk from the airport - is currently sold out for the next week.
Introducing simple and legitimate ways to get medical certificates for sick leave, online doctor consultation and prescription services in Ireland.

Telehealth services have been frowned upon for their overtly generalised approach to patient care. Facilities for online medical certificates for verifying sick leaves have been available for some time, yet their legitimacy, authenticity and clarity are treated with a grain of salt. Things are about to change with the new platform, Get Health Care.

We have radically designed our platform to make self-treatment easier for busy urban people with problems like UTI, migraine or chronic skin diseases like Eczema or Acne, expressed Dylan Holland, a founding member of Get Health Care. Users could get an online doctor available 24*7 at their convenience and appreciate a reliable service for getting prescription medications without stepping out, concluded Mr Holland.

What Is Get Health Care and What It Offers

Get Health Care, initially introduced as Get Sick Cert, is a telehealth platform. It is backed by a highly experienced registered GP, Dr Eoghan Macsweeny, with the web applications conceptualised by web expert, Dylan Holland.

Initially started as a provider of online medical certificates for sick leaves, the platform is developing rapidly. Now it also offers well-monitored, systematic online doctor consultation and prescription services, integrating convenience with credibility.

Users can get personalised care options from an Irish-registered online doctor in Ireland for persistent health issues in men and women, including the following:

Hay Fever

Migraine

Acne

Eczema

Cystitis and UTI

Birth Control

Premature Ejaculation

You can get prescriptions along with GP advice online, all in one place, easily accessible from their PCs and smartphones.

Bringing Quality Healthcare Closer To People and Making Self-Treatment Safer

So how to get doctor prescription online from Get Health Care?

The overall methodology of Get Health Care is a lot different from the usual GP near me book online turmoil. The completely web-based facility employs streamlined processes that work for a targeted user base.

Discuss your health issues via a medical questionnaire Form

Schedule an appointment with an online doctor available according to your chosen slot

Connect with your GP online in Ireland over a phone or video call, which more or less works as a face-to-face consultation.

Your GP will sign prescriptions based on their evaluation.

Choose from a list of pharmacies where your prescription can be sent, you can either fetch it from the store or get it delivered to your location.

The main idea behind Get Health Cares online doctor consultation and prescription services is to normalise contactless healthcare for busy employees and university students.

Every year, working individuals lose hours of paid time, and students lose hours of class time only because they have to visit a doctor, even for hay fever or migraine headache, said Dr Eoghan Macsweeny. The Get Health Care platform was developed partly as a response to the whole humdrum of the process so that they dont have to put up with the inflexible and unfriendly experiences while tending to minor illnesses," concluded Dr Macsweeny.

Get Health Care Encourages Preventive Healthcare for Busy Urban People in Ireland

Get Health Care, with its tailored services for GP consultation and online prescription in Ireland, encourages people to be more proactive in seeking medical attention, even for the common cold and fever.

Patients can consult with highly qualified, Irish-registered doctors, who may not be available in their neighbourhood. Everything can be carried out without interruption and regardless of geographic location, from acquiring medical certifications and refilling medications to seeking GP advice online.

Also, telemedicine reduces the cost of preventative care. Considering the cost of visiting a physician in person, including time and money, it is usually more expensive than online services.

Get Health Care Now Available for British Users to See a Doctor Online and Get a Prescription

Within 4 years of its inception, Get Health Care has gained huge traction for its online doctor call-in prescription services in Ireland, which no other contemporary platform has achieved so far. The founders are now looking to cross borders and make most of their services available to British users. Their target audience is busy employees and university students. The facility is only valid for adults (above 21) and does not apply to minors or schoolchildren. The UK-based platform will collaborate with GMC-certified and UK-registered GPs and will offer the same services as the Irish platform.

Get Your Health Care On Your Fingertips  Keep Well on the Go!

Living with chronic acne, eczema and migraines is a challenge in itself. Those who suffer from these disorders often need to avoid exposure to sunlight. This is the reason why visiting a GP can become problematic at times. By bringing quality health services and direct access to online doctor prescription services in Ireland, treatment can become simpler and also cheaper. So go ahead and request your prescription and experience quality healthcare at your fingertips!
ABBEY TAUCHEN |

Lincoln University of Missouri has promoted Dr. Danisha Williams to the role of executive director of enrollment management, effective July 1, 2024.

As executive director of enrollment management, Dr. Williams will provide oversight for the offices of Admissions, Student Financial Services, Registrar, and scholarships.

"In the past two years, Dr. Williamss leadership has been integral in growing our new student enrollment," said Lincoln University President Dr. John B. Moseley. "We look forward to building upon that momentum in both our recruitment and retention efforts as she guides the Enrollment Management team."

Williams joined Lincoln University as the director of admissions in July 2022. Prior to joining Lincoln, she was the director of admission and recruitment at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi. She began her career in higher education in 2010 at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she held various roles in residence life and the Office of Admissions, including director of admission and recruitment.

A native of Champaign, Illinois, Williams holds a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Professional Practice from Trevecca Nazarene University, a Master of Public Administration from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Fisk University.
MUMBAI : Sanitaryware maker Varmora Granito, backed by global private equity firm Carlyle Group, is looking to raise $100-150 million in a pre-public listing round, two people familiar with developments in the company said.

The mix of primary and secondary fundraise from private equity investors is expected to see the company valued at 5,000 crore (nearly $600 million), the people added.

There is significant inbound interest from funds that are willing to invest in the company," said one of the persons cited above.

The Morbi, Gujarat-based company, which is looking to list on Indian bourses in 18-24 months, has seen inbound interest from investors such as GIC and 360 One, among others, the second person said.

Carlyle is likely to take some money off the table in this (current funding) round, and will also sell partially during the IPO (initial public offering)," this person said. Both the people requested not to be named.

The development underscores the growing investor interest in private companies that are headed for an IPO. Other such as FirstCry, Oyo, Ixigo and Ola Electric have reportedly seen similar interest.

Emailed queries to Varmora Granito did not elicit any response. Spokespersons of Carlyle and 360One declined to comment. GIC, too, did not respond to requests for comment.

The development comes two years after Carlyle invested $100 million to acquire a significant minority stake in the company from the promoters in July 2022, at an undisclosed valuation.

At that time, Varmora, in a statement, had said it aimed to leverage the strength of the partnership with Carlyle to enhance its investments in brand building and digital marketing, deepen its distribution network, and augment product innovation and capacity.

Carlyle has been looking to harvest some of its other investments in the country, too. The PE firm has been reportedly looking to sell part stakes in companies such as Yes Bank, Airtels data center business and VLCC, among others.

Creating brand Varmora

Established in 1994 by brothers Naranbhai Varmora and Ramanbhai Varmora, then traders of Mangalorean rooftiles, the companys product portfolio includes premium tiles, faucets and sanitaryware.

The company has over 200 exclusive brand outlets in India and have marketing and distribution setup in more than 74 countries.

As per an April 2024 ratings release by Care, in FY23, Varmora group (registered as Varmora Granito) reported year-on-year (y-o-y) growth of 26.61% in its total operating income to 1,342.29 crore compared to 1,058.33 crore in the previous year. It also reported export sales of 264.52 crore in FY23, compared to 198.61 crore the previous year.

The profit before interest, lease rentals, depreciation and taxation (PBILDT) margin and profit after tax (PAT) margin of the group remained largely stable at 10.6% and 4.8% in FY23.

The group reported 32% growth in gross cash accruals of 113.97 crore in FY23, compared to 70.01 crore in FY22. According to the provisional results for 9MFY24, the group has reported total operating income and PBILDT of around 985 crore and 104 crore, the ratings release said.

Post commencement of operations of its newly incorporated subsidiary, Covertek Ceramica Private Limited, in FY22, the groups installed capacity increased to 32.2 million square metres per annum vitrified and ceramic tiles in FY23, compared to 28.95 million square meters per annum in FY22, and 750,000 pieces per annum for sanitaryware products in FY23.
Hindujas: The UK's billionaire Hinduja family is in the spotlight as family members face possible jail terms in Switzerland. Swiss authorities have accused them of human trafficking and staff exploitation at their villa overlooking Lake Geneva.

Ajay Hinduja, the scion of the family's Swiss-based branch, refuted allegations that he forced an Indian nanny to work 18-hour days without leave, calling the claim idiotic and describing her like a second mum to his kids, Bloomberg reported. The case also names his wife, Namrata, and parents, Prakash and Kamal.

Here's a closer look at who the Hindujas are and what companies they own.

Who are the Hindujas? According to their Forbes profile, the Hinduja family, which controls the Hinduja Group, an MNC conglomerate, was worth $20 billion as of November 2023. The group has business interests in everything from trucks and lubricants to banking and cable television.

Second-generation patriarch Gopichand Hinduja took over as chairman after his older brother Srichand Hinduja died in May 2023. All UK citizens, Gopichand lives in London, with Prakash in Monaco and Ashok in Mumbai.

According to Forbes, the family was the seventh richest in India (2023), the 146th richest in the world in 2022, and dropped off the list in 2023. They were also the 12th richest in Asia in 2017.

How did the business grow? According to the group's website, the Hinduja brothers' father, Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja, traded goods in Shikarpur town in the Sindh region of British India (now Pakistan). He moved his merchant banking and trade businesses to Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1914 and opened an international office in Iran in 1919.

The brothers shifted their base to London in 1979, where it remains. The website claims the group employs 200,000 people worldwide.

His eldest son, Srichand P Hinduja, aka SP, took over in November 1935. He is credited with founding IndusInd Bank. Current Chairman Gopichand took the helm in May 2023 and is credited with the Group's forays into the power and infrastructure sectors.

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What are the Hinduja Group companies? Hinduja Housing Finance Ltd

Switch Mobility

Ashok Leyland Foundries  a division of Ashok Leyland, also known as Hinduja Foundries

P D Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre

Hinduja Healthcare Limited

Hinduja Bank (Switzerland) Ltd (formerly Amas Bank)

IndusInd Bank

Hinduja Leyland Finance Ltd

Hinduja Global Solutions Ltd

Hinduja Tech Ltd

GOCL Corporation Ltd

Gulf Oil International Ltd

Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited

Quaker-Houghton International Ltd

Gulf Oil Middle East Ltd

Hinduja National Power Corporation Ltd

Hinduja Renewables Energy Private Ltd

Hinduja Realty Ventures Ltd

Hinduja Group India Limited

KPB Hinduja College of Commerce

NXTDIGITAL Ltd (formerly Hinduja Ventures Ltd)  includes Nxtdigital Hits, OneOTT iNtertainment Ltd, INE, and INDigital

Cyqurex Systems Private Limited

British Metal Corporation (India) Pvt Ltd

Hinduja Investments and Project Services Ltd

The Swiss case: Human trafficking, low wages, long work hours The Hinduja family  Ajay Hinduja, his wife Namrata Hinduja and other members Prakash Hinduja and Kamal Hinduja, are accused of spending more on their pet dog than on one of their servants, according to a Swiss prosecutor, Bloomberg reported. The prosecutor, Yves Bertossa, is pushing for prison sentences of up to five and a half years over alleged trafficking and exploitation of Indian staff at their villa on Lake Geneva.

"They spent more for one dog than one of their servants," he said. One woman reportedly earned as little as 7 Swiss francs ($7.84) for an 18-hour workday, seven days a week. A budget document titled Pets revealed that the family spent 8,584 Swiss francs annually on their dog.

The Hinduja family's lawyers countered Bertossa's claims and argued that remuneration included board and lodgings, not just cash. Lawyer Yael Hayat, representing Ajay Hinduja, claimed the prosecutor exaggerated the working hours, adding that one worker considered the Geneva pay favourable compared to India.

During the trial, Ajay testified he was unaware of the detailed working conditions as the Hinduja Group in India managed recruitment. He noted that staff are now hired locally through a third party and not informally.

Bertossa has called for five-and-a-half-year sentences for Prakash and Kamal and four and a half years for Ajay and his wife, Namrata. He also demanded the family pay 1 million Swiss francs in court costs and 3.5 million francs into a compensation fund for the staff.
Mumbai: A new regulation to enhance transparency in India's corporate bond market is not working out as planned, lawyers and financial experts said.

Companies with publicly traded bonds planning to sell fresh non-convertible debt papers have to mandatorily list them on stock exchanges, under a new rule that took effect earlier this year. However, the rule has prompted companies to raise debt through their unlisted subsidiaries instead, the people said. The capital raised can then be transferred to the parent through inter-company loans or other mechanisms.

Corporate lawyers said on condition of anonymity that several companies are in touch with them for private placements of unlisted debt through unlisted subsidiaries to avoid the compliance burden that comes with listed papers. Some companies, especially in power and infrastructure, are planning unlisted subsidiaries to house projects requiring high capital investment for this purpose, they added. Private placement is essentially selling bonds to pre-selected investors rather than offering them in the market.

Private placements

The number of non-convertible debenture (NCD) issuances through unlisted subsidiaries is expected to increase as companies aim to avoid the regulatory compliance associated with listed NCDs, said Venkatakrishnan Srinivasan, founder and managing partner at Rockfort Fincap, a boutique financial advisory firm specializing in corporate debt. He added that this trend will likely be prominent among companies struggling to secure debt in the domestic market, who will instead turn to private credit funds and other high-risk investors for borrowing.

Last month, resources major Vedanta Ltds subsidiary Vedanta Semiconductors raised just over 18,000 crore through this route from a clutch of private credit funds. The capital was then transferred to Vedanta Ltd via an inter-company loan. A leading Gujarat-based conglomerate is also considering a similar issue, the lawyers cited above said.

Vedanta did not respond to a request for comment.

Companies typically take into consideration the disclosures to be made under the listed regime, compulsory rating requirements for listed paper, creditor mix currently in the entity, and timelines and costs involved in a listed issue before opting for a listed versus an unlisted debt issue," said Manisha Shroff, partner at law firm Khaitan & Co. Since the amendments to the regulations last year which made the disclosures more exhaustive and stringent, the trend for many companies has been to opt for unlisted issuances or issuance through their unlisted subsidiaries," Shroff said.

Amendments to the Securities and Exchange Board of India's (Sebi) Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements effective 1 January mandate companies with outstanding listed non-convertible debt securities (NCDS) to sell only listed NCDS going forward. However, a company that doesnt have any listed NCDS may issue such unlisted papers. Essentially, a company cannot have listed and unlisted debt securities.

A query emailed to a Sebi spokesperson remained unanswered.

Towards transparency

The amendment is aimed at ensuring better transparency in price discovery for all NCDs, and to facilitate easier exit for investors. Sebi also expects the amendment to help reduce investor confusion between listed and unlisted papers of the same company and prevent mis-selling of unlisted bonds to investors.

However, these amendments may not have the desired knock-on effect, and may, in fact, push investors and issuers to voluntarily delist existing listed NCDs or turn to other sources or avenues of fund-raising, including traditional routes like banks and non-banking finance companies where possible," law firm AZB said in a blog in February this year. It may now also be practically impossible for issuers having outstanding listed NCDs to execute bilateral arrangements with investors and arrangers of unlisted NCDs, which are otherwise fairly common," they noted.

Experts say that by issuing the bonds through unlisted subsidiaries, companies can return to such bilateral arrangements.

However, companies may need to offer collateral from their most credit-worthy entity in the group to provide comfort to an investor to invest in an unlisted paper of an unlisted group entity, Khaitan & Cos Shroff said.

Parent's guarantee

Borrowings of unlisted subsidiaries are typically guaranteed by their listed parents with higher credit rating.

Chirag Shah, a senior lawyer in securities law, added that if Sebi actually wanted listed companies to list their NCDS, it should mandate that not just the listed company, but its wholly owned subsidiary or material subsidiary should also do the same. This is the only way to curb any circumventing of the law via unlisted subsidiaries. In any event, such unlisted subsidiaries wouldnt be able to raise money without the parent's support or guarantee," Shah said.

Kunal Sharma, partner at Singhania & Co, clarified that it was for Sebi to contemplate whether investors are under serious financial risk if NCDS are unlisted.

It would be naive to think that regulators did not deliberate on whether the entities seeking borrowing through means of NCDS would engineer for exceptions, especially when among other benefits of having unlisted NCDS, one such benefit would be no requirement of periodic credit review as mandated under SEBI (LODR) Regulations for Listed Entities" he said.
BENGALURU : Sometime early last year, agritech startup Reshamandi was riding the funding boom, churning revenues, and eyeing net profitability and expansion. Today, the Bengaluru-based firm finds itself ensnared in a financial crisis, with frozen bank accounts, delayed debt repayments, and mounting legal challenges threatening its survival.

The company, a business-to-business marketplace for silk products, has been struggling with delayed debt repayments amid difficulty in raising funding since the middle of last year, characteristic of the struggles in the wider agritech sector.

As of August last year, Reshamandi had delayed repaying dues of over $36 million by 30-40 days, according to reports.

This financial strain has now culminated in the freezing of its bank accounts, according to people aware of the development.

"We are actively resolving the delays. These take time," the company said in response to Mints queries regarding the frozen accounts, adding that discussions with bankers on debt are underway.

Documents accessed by Mint also reveal that debt investors Northern Arc Capital and Aditya Birla Finance Ltd have approached the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) against Reshamandi.

The company, founded in 2020 by Mayank Tiwari, Saurabh Agarwal, Utkarsh Apoorva, has raised approximately $70 million in capital from investors such as Omnivore, Innoven Capital, Alteria Capital, and Northern Arc.

According to data platform Tracxn, Reshamandi raised its last funding round of $5.6 million in June last year, at a valuation of $74 million.

Reshamandis revenue increased to 414 crore in FY22 from 21 crore in FY21. However, its losses widened from 2 crore to 59 crore during the same period. The company is yet to file FY23 numbers.

Impact on employee salaries

The financial turmoil has not only affected debt repayments but also employee salaries. Reshamandi has failed to pay a significant number of its employees and has not deposited provident fund money since August.

In a town hall meeting in June, chief executive Mayank Tiwari had informed employees that salaries would not be paid for the next three months, urging those who wished to leave to do so, according to two former employees.

Adding to the controversy, the company asked some employees to sign new offer letters from an entity called GENZR, the nature of which remains unclear and has not been addressed by the company.

Salaries for some employees were cleared through GENZRs account, with pending salaries from Reshamandi listed as a joining bonus in GENZR. This move prompted some employees to file police complaints, leading to the eventual clearance of their salaries.

Mint has seen copies of the GENZR appointment letters and the police complaints.

And This: Why VCs are drawn towards upstream agritech

Most of the employees who stayed with the company were on paper working under the entity named GENZR and now they have also been asked to resign," said one of the former employees cited above.

Responding to a detailed questionnaire on defaults, salary payments, GENZR, and funding issues, the company said, The first few quarters of 2023 saw tremendous growth for us where our revenue was 3x! However, we started to face some challenges which are a normal course of business for a company in our space, i.e., collections from our retailers and the funding winter which impacted almost every startup in the ecosystem in one way or the other."

The company emphasized that these challenges have not affected their determination to continue operations. Due to the financial crunch, Reshamandi said that they had to make difficult decisions to keep the company afloat, ensuring they acted in the best interest of the company and upheld their fiduciary responsibility towards shareholders, board members, and lenders.

Reshamandi also clarified that there are no corporate governance issues or plans for restructuring. We continue to stand our ground in bringing the company back to its shape and form and scaling further," it asserted.

India's agritech landscape

The broader landscape for agritech startups in India remains challenging.

A 2023 AgriFoodTech Investment report by AgFunder and Omnivore highlighted a 33% drop in venture capital funding for agritech and food-tech startups in 2022, with total funding falling to $2.4 billion.

Much of the sectors investment has relied on government support amid stringent official controls.

India's agritech sector, valued at an estimated $24 billion, remains significantly untapped with only 1.5% penetration, according to a report by Ernst & Young.

The sector has yet to see a startup achieve unicorn status or a public listing. Notable players include the likes of DeHaat, WayCool, and Ninjacart are valued between $650 million and $800 million.

Also Read: Waycool seeks extension to repay debt as it looks to turn a profit
The country's top economists met finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday for consultations ahead of the upcoming annual budget, and urged the government to push manufacturing, generate jobs, and revive private sector investment and consumption growth.

At least two economists present at the meeting said broader issues like employment, exports/imports, health and private sector investment dominated the discussions with an eye on not only the upcoming budget but also medium- and long- term growth.

Pushing growth momentum The stakeholder meeting conducted by Sitharaman saw the minister, top finance ministry officials and eminent economists discuss ideas and suggestions that could push the growth momentum.

There were discussions on driving manufacturing, especially in the labour-intensive sectors, Nagesh Kumar, director and chief executive of the Institute for Studies in Industrial Development (ISID), a New Delhi-based public-funded policy think tank, told reporters after the meeting on Wednesday

"We discussed measures for capacity-driven growth for the economy which should be sustainable. It was discussed that the private sector investment and consumption growth should also be pushed to sustain the growth momentum," he said.

He said there were no specific numbers discussed on the capex front.

The finance minister will also meet top industry representatives, leaders from the capital markets and financial sector, farmers associations, agricultural economists, trade unions, and representatives from MSMEs, trade and services in the coming days.

On Wednesday, while issues around fiscal consolidation were touched upon, it was the larger macroeconomic issues that were discussed in detail, said another senior economist, who attended the meeting, under the condition of anonymity.

"The finance minister and top officials of the ministry heard us out, but they didn't give any assurances," the person added.

Senior finance ministry officials present in the meeting included finance secretary TV Somanathan, department of financial services secretary Vivek Joshi, revenue secretary Sanjay Malhotra, and the government's chief economic advisor V. Anantha Nageswaran, apart from the minister of state for finance Pankaj Chaudhary.

Prominent economists present at the meeting included Poonam Gupta, director general at NCER, Santanu Sengupta, chief India economist at Goldman Sachs, Vishal Vaibwah, chief economist at Tata Sons, T.C.A Anant, former chief statistician, Laveesh Bhandari, president and senior fellow at CSEP, and Tirthankar Patnaik, chief economist at the National Stock Exchange (NSE).

Policies that generate employment should be the focus (during the upcoming budget), economist Ashwani Mahajan, the National Co-Convener of Swadeshi Jagaran Manch (SJM), told reporters after the meeting.

On the capex front, the government is already doing enough, Mahajan added.

In February, Sitharaman delivered a crisp interim budget for FY25 that reiterated the governments commitment to fiscal consolidation and infrastructure-led growth. There were only a few announcements and no changes to taxes.

In her shortest budget speech yet, Sitharaman conveyed the governments focus on four key priority sectorswomen, farmers, youth and the poorbut steered clear of populism. The allocation to welfare schemes (Central sector and Centrally sponsored schemes combined) for the next financial year was increased by just 4.7% over the revised estimates for FY24.

Overall, the budgeted increase in government spending to 47.66 trillion is a mere 6.1% over the revised estimates for FY24. The overall spending on subsidies is 7% lower than the revised estimates, thanks to a 13.2% lower dole on fertilizers.

The upcoming full-year budget is expected to be presented in July.
What is industrys demand?

Speaking to the media last week, CII president Sanjiv Puri sought a 25% increase in government capital expenditure from the 11.11 trillion allocated in the 2024-25 interim budget. This, he said, was needed to make the rural sector, which is yet to recover fully from the pandemic as evident from the poor and uneven demand, more resilient. The additional funds, he said, can be deployed for housing, agriculture, warehousing and irrigation. The increase CII has sought will cost the government 2.78 trillion more, taking capex as a share of gross domestic product (GDP) from the existing record 3.4% to 4.25%.

Why is the demand surprising?

Three of the four engines of economic growthgovernment spending, private consumption and exportshave contributed significantly recently. The fourth, private investment, has remained sluggish for years despite the governments attempt to pump-prime it by way of high government capex. Between FY19 and FY25, government capex has risen from 3 trillion (1.6% of GDP) to 11.11 trillion (3.4%). The government, in September 2019, reduced the corporate tax rate sharply hoping to catalyze private investment. Despite these efforts, the private sectors reticence to invest heavily continues.

How is this impacting fiscal consolidation?

High capex spending moved with fiscal deficit. In FY19, capex stood at 3 trillion and the fiscal deficit at 3.4% of GDP. Post-covid, the Centre increased capex and the fiscal deficit stayed much higher than the 3% limit set by the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (see chart). Further reduction in the fiscal deficit is not possible if this capex spending continues.

Should the private sector do more?

One of the main reasons for private investment not taking off was surplus capacity. Thanks to revival in demand, both domestic (especially urban) and exports, average capacity utilization has crossed 75%. In select sectors it has exceeded 85%, levels at which capacity expansions are typically greenlit. Corporate balance sheets are much healthier now as debt piled up for expansion has been repaid. Banks too have cleaned their books and are primed to lend. Experts say the time is right to start investing again.

Will the government heed India Incs call?

Unlikely. Allocating funds for capex is one thingthe ability to utilize it is another. In FY24, 10 trillion was allocated but only 9.49 trillion was spent. In the interim budget 11.11 has been allocated, an 11% increase. It remains to be seen if it will be fully utilized. Also, the government is keen on fiscal consolidation and wants a fiscal deficit of 4.5% by FY26. The central government may maintain its capex at the current level of 3.4% of GDP but will incentivize states and public sector enterprises to spend more. (edited)
Mumbai: Last summer, Yes Banks board, senior management and 50 or so employees assembled at the five-star Taj Lands End hotel in Bandra, Mumbai. Also in attendance were key institutional customers and individual account holders. The gala event saw Yes Banks new logo being unveiledthe well-known red tick was subtly replaced by a soaring red bird, with the tagline Life Ko Banao Rich . It wasnt a phoenix, but observers could be forgiven for thinking so, given how the lender had risen from the ashes of its earlier mismanagement.

This rebranding followed almost two years of discussions by the board of Yes Bank, now under the aegis of State Bank of India (SBI). Those discussions centred around whether the lender needed new branding or a new name to win back the trust of customers after the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had to step in to rescue it in March 2020.

The unveiling of the new brand also coincided with the end of a three-year lock-in period for SBI and other financial institutions, which had become major shareholders in Yes Bank under the RBIs reconstruction scheme. Under that scheme, SBI picked up a 49% stake in the restructured capital of the bank. Together with SBI, domestic investors Housing Development Finance Corp., ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bandhan Bank, Federal Bank and IDFC First Bank invested 10,000 crore in the beleaguered lender, with 75% of their holdings locked for three years.

[Update: On 9 June, Mint reported exclusively that RBI had given an in-principle approval for up to a 51% stake sale in Yes Bank, clearing the way for a new promoter to step in.]

Despite this dream team stepping in to oversee Yes Bank, the latters customers, clients and people at large had serious doubts about its financial viability. At that time, the new-generation private lenders gross bad loans had soared to 16.8%, way higher than the 5.5% average of other private banks and the 8.2% average of the overall industry, as per RBI data. After providing for these bad loans, the bank had posted a loss of 16,418 crore in fiscal year 2020 against a profit of 1,720 crore in the previous financial year.

Yes Banks liquidity coverage ratio (LCR)essentially its ability to meet immediate short-term repaymentswas as low as 37% of total cash outflow for the following 30 days (a healthy bank will have an LCR of at least 100%). The banks deposit book shrank to 1.05 trillion at the end of March 2020 from 2.27 trillion during the corresponding period a year earlier.

Today, Yes Bank is in a far healthier position. Gross bad loans as a percentage of total loans stood at 1.3% at the end of March 2024, post the transfer of the banks non-performing assets (NPAs) to an asset reconstruction company (ARC). The liquidity level is far more comfortable with the LCR at 116.1% and total deposits at 2.66 trillion. Icing the cake, Yes Bank reported a net profit of 1,251 crore and operating profit at 3,386 crore at the end of 2023-24.

In 2020, Yes Banks gross bad loans had soared to 16.8%, way higher than the 5.5% average of other private banks and the 8.2% average of the overall industry.

The credit for dragging Yes Bank back from the edge goes to SBI veteran Prashant Kumar, who was appointed managing director and chief executive officer (MD and CEO) and the board. The new management took a series of steps to win back trust for the institution.

But Kumars job is only half done. While the bank is now on a stable footing, the investors who stepped in to rescue it are getting restive as their lock-in has expired. RBI has forbidden them from selling their shares in the stock market and is pushing them to instead look for a strategic investor, according to a senior official at a private sector bank.

But finding a strategic investor is proving a challenge, as Yes Banks numbers need to be far better, especially its bottom line. Analysts and fund managers have not been convinced by the turnaround and believe it will take the bank at least five years to improve profitability.

Kumar has done a good job. But it will be difficult for Yes Bank to get a strategic investor for multiple reasons. Further, the equity dilution in Yes Bank is too large, which has impacted its return profile, and it needs a much longer period to improve to the industry average," said Asutosh Mishra, head of research, Ashika Stock Broking. Given this, along with the current political context of a coalition government, all investors will wait and watch for the next few months before they take any major decision."

Kumar is no stranger to challenges. After all, he had been entrusted with the job of overseeing the largest rescue package in Indias financial industry back in 2020 after Yes Banks erstwhile management put the bank in peril, and delivered. But given that his term ends in October 2025, he will be in a hurry to wrap up this unfinished business.

Yes Bank 2.0

Yes Bank was the last of the new generation private sector banks to get a banking licence in May 2004. The bank began its two-decade-long journey under co-founder Ashok Kapur, whose life was cut short in the 26/11 attacks on Mumbai.

Thereafter, the other co-founder Rana Kapoor took over and turbocharged its growth as a private corporate bank. Kapoors tenure was marked by reckless lending to real estate and infrastructure companies, which helped Yes Bank post robust growth numbers quarter after quarter even as the broader industry grappled with rising NPAs.

That apparent dream run came to a halt after an asset quality review under then RBI governor Raghuram Rajan brought to light the huge bad-loan divergence on the banks books. Bad loans aside, the RBI was worried about Yes Banks governance practices, and Kapoor was denied an extension of his term (he ended up being jailed in March 2020, and emerged only last month, on bail).

Deutsche Banks India chief Ravneet Gill was brought in as MD and CEO in March 2019. But Gills stint was cut short after the RBI superseded the board a year later to stem the damage to the bank and its depositors. Kumar was thereafter appointed to supervise the resuscitation of Yes Bank.

A good administrator

Prashant Kumar started his career with SBI as a probationary officer in 1983. He has served in many roles, including as the chief general manager of the Kolkata circle from 2014 to 2016, during which time he was instrumental in reducing the extent of frauds. His role at Kolkata became a game changer for Kumars careerhe was later promoted to the role of chief development officer (CDO). Within a year, he was also given an additional role as chief financial officer (CFO).

He was the first person in SBI to hold both CDO and CFO roles, both reporting to the chairman directly. Both these roles are quite busy," said a former SBI official.

View Full Image Prashant Kumar started his career with SBI as a probationary officer in 1983.

His ability to assimilate things and not get flustered with the task is Kumars biggest trait. He is unflappable even if faced with challenges," said a former Yes Bank senior official. He could carry employees together. Nobody saw him as a threat. He was not the typical private or foreign banker coming in," he added.

Kumar also managed to stem the flow of deposits from the bank through extensive customer outreach programmes and also by leveraging existing fintech and supply chain relationships to attract new customers. In six months, between September 2019 and March 2020, Yes Bank had seen a nearly 50% outflow from its deposit portfolio, which shrank from 2.09 trillion to 1.05 trillion. At the end of March this year, deposits had rebounded to 2.66 trillion.

After taking over, Kumar and the board began to de-risk the balance sheet by shrinking Yes Banks large corporate portfolio and doubling its retail loan book. During Kapoors reign, Yes Bank had seen its loan book grow from 55,633 crore in 2014 to 2.4 trillion in 2019 through aggressive corporate lending. Of these loans, 60% were given to corporates, including low-rated corporates. After taking charge, Kumar revamped the loan book by giving 60% of the banks loans to retail customers and small businesses. The retail loan book, which stood at 40,755 crore in 2019, had grown to 1.05 trillion by March end 2024.

In December 2022, the bank transferred its 48,000 crore bad-loan pool to JC Flowers Asset Reconstruction Company after a competitive bidding process. This was the largest ever sale of NPAs in the banking system. The bank also picked up a 9.99% stake in the ARC, with the option of increasing its stake to 20% subject to RBI approval. The deal helped Yes Bank bring down its gross NPA level to 1.7% of total assets and rid itself of exposure to high-risk borrowers such as ADAG, Cox & Kings, DHFL and Indiabulls Housing. However, the bank is yet to reach the 0% gross NPA that Kumar was targeting.

The last 12 months have been quite fruitful, said Kumar, as Yes Bank has been able to recover 3,500 crore from security receipts through the JC Flower ARC. Security receipts are instruments issued by ARCs as a consideration for purchasing distressed assets from banks/NBFCs.

Kumars other big focus was on changing the culture of risk, compliance and governance in the bank. Under Kapoor, decisions were taken by an individual and not the management at large, Kumar told Mint. Now, the MD and CEO is not part of the credit committee, and the risk department of the bank reports directly to the boards risk committee.

Much more needed

While a lot has been accomplished, Yes Banks profits have not given investors the confidence to line up. The lenders operating profit grew just 6% year on year to 3,386 crore during 2023-24.

This is one of the areas where Kumar and his team are yet to achieve their targets. While the bank has shown three years of profitability after the rescue scheme was instituted, operational profitability has been weak because of the funds invested in the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) owing to Yes Banks shortfall in meeting priority sector lending targets. RIDF is a fund maintained by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural development (Nabard), to which banks contribute the extent of their shortfall in priority sector lending to agriculture.

Under the priority sector lending rules, a banking entity needs to lend 40% of its adjusted net bank credit to the so-called priority sector or economically weaker sections such as agriculture, micro-enterprises and other economically disadvantaged sections.

According to Kumar, nearly 44,000 crore of Yes Banks money has gone to the fund, which otherwise would have led to a better return on assets (ROA). Yes Banks ROA stood at 0.3% at the end of 2023-24. ROA is a financial ratio that indicates how profitable a company is in relation to its total assets. A lower ROA means that a bank is not able to utilize its assets efficiently. A negative ROA implies the banks assets are yielding negative returns.

I think except for the profitability part, everything has been achieved. And one of the reasons for profitability not getting achieved is also because of the shortfall in our priority sector targets. Because of our own positions, the bank was not able to achieve those things over the last 3-4 years. And today, 11% of our assets are lying in the RIDF," Kumar told Mint.

Today, if this money had not been there in RIDF, our net interest margin (NIM) would have been 3% instead of 2.4%. Its a 70 basis point impact on the NIM, and an almost 40 basis point impact on the ROA," added Kumar.

Again, while Kumar ensured cost discipline during the initial year of the rescue, that focus seems to have been diluted. Yes Banks expenses had surged to 75% by the end of 2023-24. It started offering higher deposit rates to attract more customers, as competition intensified in the space. The bank also increased spending on advertisements, including on becoming the official team Indias banking partner at the Paris Olympics. Operating expenses, too, rose on higher business costs and employee-related expenses, including hiring high-cost employees from other banks.

I think except for the profitability part, everything has been achieved. Prashant Kumar

Moreover, the bank is yet to reach its deposit targets. Low-cost current and savings deposits stood at 30.9% at the end of fiscal year 2024 as compared to the 35% guidance Yes Bank had set for 2022-23.

Immediately, Kumar is focusing on improving the banks return on assets (ROA) from 0.3% to 1% by the end of fiscal year 2026 and 1.5% two years hence. But observers arent convinced he can pull it off.

Compared to Yes Bank, which has a market capitalization of 70,000 crore, IDFC First Bank, with a market cap of 55,000 crore, has an ROA of 1.1%. In terms of operating profit, Yes Bank is at 3,400 crore, well below Federal Banks 5,200 crore, IDFC First Banks 6,200 crore and Bank of Maharashtras 8,000 crore.

Yes Bank has to show improvement in profits. We like Federal bank and IDFC First bank in this space," said Gaurang Shah, senior vice president at Geojit Financial.

Yes Banks shares have gained over 6% since 31 March 2020. On Wednesday, they closed at 23.81. The banks price-to-book value stood at 1.8 times compared to SBIs price-to-book of 2 times and HDFC Banks 2.5 times

Investor hunt

With the expiry of the lock-in period, SBI, LIC, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and other shareholders are looking for an exit. Citibank has been given the mandate to find a buyer for a strategic stake sale. Many Japanese banks and middle eastern banks are said to be interested in bidding for the stake. But SBI is looking at a valuation of $9-10 billion for a 51% stake in Yes Bank, and banking experts arent convinced the lender is worth that much.

View Full Image SBI is looking at a valuation of $9-10 billion for a 51% stake in Yes Bank.

I think for any financial institution, having a long-term strategic investor is important and good for the bank, be it foreign or domestic," said Kumar. Over the last six months, he has met with several domestic investors. But the response appears to be lukewarm so far.

Nobody will come at this price. We have a price-to-book of 2 times with 5% return on equity. I can buy HDFC Bank instead. Its a long haul for Yes Bank as the business model is constrained. The liability cost is also very high," said a fund manager with a privately owned fund.

Bankers are also sceptical about the lender finding a suitor. Yes Bank is at a stalemate. Investors are not convinced to put in money. And the bank cannot be sold to a private equity investor as RBI will not allow it," said a senior banker aware of the matter.

A job well begun is half done. Kumar has done a remarkable job in stabilizing Yes Bank. But the bank needs the backing of a strong investor and a clear path to get on to a high-growth trajectory.
Taiwan and its semiconductor industry are one of the biggest choke-points in the world economy. Everything from phones to artificial intelligence (AI) models relies on the chips that Taiwan excels at making. Yet the island, which is self-governing but claimed by China, would be at the heart of any Sino-American war. Its chip fabrication plants (fabs) could be destroyed or their output embargoed, with huge knock-on effects across the planet. This danger explains why America, China, Japan and others have been subsidising the production of chips elsewhere.

Diversification makes sense for everyoneexcept Taiwan. For the island it is an economic threat and a security one. A smaller industry would make Taiwan poorer and strategically less important, which might make the West care less if China invaded it, and make it easier for China to do so without risking its chip supply. As a result, even as Western politicians and bosses boast of making chips at home, Taiwan is now working furiously to remain indispensable. The first priority is Taiwan, the second priority is Taiwan, and the third priority is Taiwan," C.C. Wei, the boss of TSMC, the leading firm, told investors on June 4th. In his inauguration speech on May 20th, Lai Ching-te, Taiwans new president, called it a Silicon Island" and vowed it would work to secure a lead in AI.

The Taiwanese sometimes call their industry the sacred mountain that protects the nation". The island makes more than 90% of the most advanced semiconductors, which use the so-called three-nanometre process. All of those are made by TSMC, by far Taiwans most important firm. Dominance of the global market for chips means the industry is hugely important to Taiwans economy, accounting for 13% of its GDP (TSMC alone makes up 8%) and 40% of exports last year.

The worldwide push to end dependence on Taiwan began several years ago and is now in full swing. Under the 2022 chips Act, President Joe Bidens government has subsidised chip firms including Intel and Samsung to the tune of $22bn to start making advanced semiconductors in America. Germany, India, Japan and others have large subsidy schemes, too: Rapidus, a Japanese government-backed firm, claims it will produce two-nanometre chips by 2027. TSMC is itself building new fabs in America and Japan; and two compatriot firms, UMC and PSMC, are constructing fabs in Singapore and India.

At first glance this means Taiwans centrality to the industry will decline. Its share of chip wafers smaller than 10 nanometres fell from over 90% in 2019 to 70% in 2022, and is expected to drop to 47% by 2032. Americas share is forecast to jump from zero to nearly 30%, according to a recent analysis by the Semiconductor Industry Association and BCG, a consultancy firm. The share of TSMC's long-term assets located in Taiwan fell from 98% in 2016 to 81% in 2023, as it set up plants abroad.

Yet look closer and the picture is different. Mr Wei of TSMC has reassured investors that 80-90% of the firms capacity remains in Taiwan. Because the technological frontier is moving, foreign fabs may quickly fall behind. The first fabs that are completed in Arizona will make older nodes of four or five nanometres. Taiwanese fabs are expected to make two-nanometre chips by 2025, and 1.4-nanometre chips by 2028. When tsmc promises advanced manufacturing technology overseas, it is still building that first in Taiwan," Wu Cheng-wen, Taiwans new science and technology minister, insisted on May 22nd.

American talk of bringing chipmaking back is a political show", says Lin Hung Wen, a journalist in Taiwan. Despite the global subsidy boom, Taiwans relative cost advantage is intact: Wendell Huang, TSMCs finance chief, has said American fabs cost four to five times more to build than those on the island.

Across the strait

The government and firms are now pushing to widen the gap with the rest of the world even further. One priority is AI, which Taiwanese officials now refer to as a second sacred mountain". Nvidia, an American semiconductor firm which has an 88% market share for GPUs, the chips that power AI, relies on TSMC to make and package most of those chips in a complex process that involves stacking multiple chips on top of a wafer. Taiwan also assembles 90% of the servers that those chips go into. In June Jensen Huang, the boss of Nvidia, called Taiwan the bedrock for the AI industrial revolution". Jeff Lin, vice-president of the Industrial Technology Research Institute, a tech incubator in Hsinchu, the home of TSMC, says that Taiwan wants to help international companies become the next Nvidia."

Last year Taiwans government passed laws that offer chip companies 25% tax deductions for research and development of cutting-edge chips and 5% deductions for purchases of equipment for advanced manufacturing. Another priority for the government is expanding beyond hardware into chip design, where it wants the islands market share to rise from 20% today to 40% by 2033. At all times the goal is to draw intellectual property to Taiwan.

If the existing subsidy boom wont dislodge Taiwan from the apex of the chip industry, what might? Jiann-Chyuan Wang of the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research, a think-tank, notes that Americas government could demand that a share of advanced chips must be procured domestically for security reasons.

Taiwan faces other constraints. TSMC consumed 8% of the islands electricity in 2023. Fossil fuels still produce around 80% of Taiwans electricity. Slow decarbonisation means Taiwanese firms may have to compete for a limited amount of renewable energy, or have to pay carbon tariffs in the EU when its new tax regime is implemented in 2026. Taiwan also has an ageing population and a shortage of workers. It launched a gold card" visa system in 2018 in order to attract foreign talent, but few of those who moved there were willing to work for local firms, because of low pay.

Another threat involves Western and Taiwanese decoupling from China. Chris Miller, the author of Chip War", a best-selling book about the industry, notes that the Peoples Republic has partially separated from Taiwan in the face of an array of tech sanctions and export controls imposed by the West (sometimes enforced through Taiwanese firms, including TSMC).

As a result Taiwanese chip exports to China fell by 18% in 2023, from $58bn to $47bn. Chinese firms do not yet pose a technological threat to TSMC, but they do pose a financial one: other Taiwanese firms in less advanced areas may be undercut. Chinas share of global capacity for making logic chips at 10-22 nanometres is expected to jump from 6% to 19% by 2032.

This output will compete with TSMCs older facilities, which are still profitable for the firm, and those of other Taiwanese chipmakers. If China decouples further, the silicon shield could become less effective at deterring a Chinese invasion of the island, because China would be disrupting infrastructure that it no longer relies on.

Despite the wave of semiconductor subsidies and talk of diversification, Taiwan appears set to remain central to the frontier of the Western tech industry. If the risk that creates cannot be eliminated it can be mitigated, to a degree. Urged on by rich-world governments, some consumer firms might accept using less advanced chips in some products, in order to bypass Taiwan. TSMC could try to insulate itself against Chinese grey-zone warfare" tactics, such as an embargo, by stockpiling: in 2023 it carried 87 days worth of inventory, compared with 46 days in 2017.

Contingencies can be made: TSMCs chipmaking machines, many of them supplied by ASML, a Dutch firm, can be remotely disabled in the event of an invasion by China. Yet the threat of war still hangs over Taiwans chip empire. In Hsinchu, one semiconductor executive shakes his head when asked about the worst case. In this situation, chips are not the priority. We dont want people to say, Save the chips but not the people."

 2024, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved.

From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
A recently adopted global treaty on intellectual property, genetic resources, and traditional knowledge is expected to benefit both India and multinational companies reliant on the country's indigenous knowledge for innovation. But some experts caution it may not be a complete win for India.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) treaty, adopted on 24 May after more than two decades of negotiations, introduces a much-needed legal framework for utilising genetic resources and traditional knowledge.

India, which has its own robust set of laws to protect the countrys vast resources and traditional knowledge, played a key role in the adoption of the treaty by WIPO. The UN agency has 193 members nations, including the US, the UK, and China.

The treaty has crucial implications for sectors such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, as companies must now disclose the sources of their knowledge and ensure it is used ethically and legally, minimising the risk of legal disputes and international exploitation.

It also requires patent applicants to disclose the origin of genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge to ensure indigenous communities receive due recognition and financial benefits from their contributions.

Also read | India must learn from China's patent chase and focus on quality over quantity

The treaty could potentially attract investment to India, though several factors will influence the extent of this impact," said Jogeshwar Mishra, partner at law firm Shardul Amarchand & Mangaldas & Co. These include providing a clearer legal framework for the use of genetic resources and traditional knowledge."

The treaty would also improve market confidence, Mishra said, as it would ensure that traditional knowledge and genetic resources are used ethically and legally, minimising the risk of legal disputes".

Subodh Gupta, CEO of Lord's Mark Microbiotech, echoed these sentiments, emphasising that the treaty would benefit Indias biodiversity and traditional knowledge.

The treaty ensures that (Indias) vast repository of biodiversity is now a part of the global IP framework," he said. In addition, by acknowledging the role of indigenous peoples, the treaty facilitates increased transparency and strengthens the ethical framework. However, concerns about individual privacy must also be addressed."

Not everyone is as sanguine, though, especially as several changes proposed by India have not been included in the treaty.

The only reason to celebrate is that the treaty has been adopted despite opposition from developed countries," said Vibha Varshney, consulting editor at Down To Earth magazine.

Varshney said the treaty fails to adequately address biopiracy and that India might end up diluting its patent laws as it amends them to align with the treaty.

Not a complete win

Legal experts caution that aligning Indias Patents Act and the Biological Diversity Act with international treaty standards may require amendments that could potentially dilute existing protections meant to safeguard traditional knowledge and genetic resources.

They also said the WIPO treatys focus on patents may overlook other forms of intellectual property exploitation. Challenges such as documenting traditional knowledge and ensuring compliance pose additional complexities.

In other words, according to the experts, implementing the treaty in India wont be straightforward and could present significant challenges.

Also read | Understanding Indias stand on IPR at the WTO

The Indian Patent Act would require a few amendments to implement this treaty, primarily to: (a) Broaden the scope of disclosure regarding genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge; (b) Introduce new provisions for sanctions, including deemed revocation and other remedies; (c) Empower and authorize the Controller General to establish a nodal office/authority for data collection, source verification, and authentication," explained Subhash Bhutoria, founder and principal at LAW SB.

Neha Khanduri, counsel at law firm Singhania & Co., shared a similar view. The treaty does not include any directions for bridging the gap between the patent offices and the resources with accumulated traditional knowledge from Indigenous communities to address the issues of access and benefit sharing," Khanduri said.

The exploitation of genetic resources

The WIPO treaty, long advocated by South Asian nations whose traditional knowledge and practices were subject to exploitation by companies from developed countries, requires contracting parties to amend their legal frameworks to enforce disclosure of origin obligations on patent applicants.

Genetic resources are found in medicinal plants, agricultural crops, and animal breeds. While genetic resources themselves cannot be directly protected as intellectual property, inventions developed using them can, often through patents.

Some genetic resources are associated with traditional knowledge through their use and conservation by indigenous peoples and local communities over generations. This knowledge is sometimes used in scientific research.

Also read | Raise funds off intellectual property: Opportunity knocks

The patenting of the healing properties of turmeric, traditionally used in India for its medicinal benefits, by a US university is an exemplar instance of intended exploitation of such genetic resources.

The University of Mississippi had in 1995 obtained a patent from the US Patent and Trademark Office for the healing properties of turmeric. However, the patent was later revoked upon being challenged by an Indian scientist.

Similarly, US-based W.R. Grace Co. and the US department of agriculture had obtained a patent from the European Patent Office for the anti-fungal properties of neem oil. The patent was later revoked on the basis of the prior use of neem extracts.

The WIPO treaty will become international law three months after 15 countries deposit their instruments of ratification or accession. But this could take long.

The ratification of the treaty by respective nations will depend on the existing framework for the protection of traditional knowledge and genetic resources," said Khanduri of Singhania & Co. Following ratification, the establishment of a library and resources for traditional knowledge and related materials will be necessary, though it is a time-consuming process."
Oil prices reached seven-week highs on Wednesday, driven by optimism about summer demand and concerns over escalating conflicts, despite an industry report indicating an unexpected rise in U.S. crude inventories.

Brent crude futures for August, set to expire on Thursday, increased by 20 cents to $85.53 a barrel by 12:35 GMT, while the more actively traded September contract rose by 21 cents to $84.74.

U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude edged up by 3 cents to $81.60 per barrel.

The Brent price being $8 above the lows reached in early June reflects genuine optimism that the global oil balance will eventually tighten.

Both benchmarks, which have recovered significantly over the past two weeks, rose by more than $1 in the previous session, reaching seven-week highs. This surge followed a Ukrainian drone strike that caused a fire at an oil terminal in a major Russian port.

What's weighing on crude oil prices? In the Middle East, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz warned of a potential "all-out war" with Lebanon's Hezbollah, despite U.S. efforts to prevent a broader conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed group. An escalating conflict poses a risk of supply disruption in this crucial oil-producing region.

Data from China this week revealed that May industrial output fell short of expectations, while retail sales, a measure of consumption, saw the fastest growth since February.

Also Read | Gold price rebounds ahead of US retail sales data. US Fed rate cut in focus
Axis Bank has acquired additional equity shares of Max Life Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Max Financial Services, for 336 crore, the private lender announced on Wednesday.

The bank's board of directors approved the acquisition of Max Life shares, increasing the total holding of Axis entities in the insurance firm from 19.02% to 19.99 per cent.

In this regard, we would now like to inform you that the Acquisitions, Divestments and Merger Committee of the Board of Directors of the Bank at its meeting held on June 19, 2024, has approved a proposal for acquisition of additional equity shares of Max Life by the Bank for an amount of upto 336 crore, thereby increasing the aggregate shareholding of the Axis Entities from 19.02% to 19.99%, the company said in the exchange filing.

This strategic move comes after Axis Bank received regulatory approval in August 2023 to inject 1,612 crore into Max Life Insurance by subscribing to shares on a preferential basis, initially increasing Axis entities' stake to 19.02%.

In 2021, Axis Bank announced its deal to acquire a stake in Max Life Insurance Co, a subsidiary of Max Financial Services.

The Axis entities include Axis Bank, investment solutions provider Axis Securities, and financial services provider Axis Capital.

Following the announcement, shares of Axis Bank, India's fifth largest by market capitalization, rose by as much as 2.2 per cent, making it one of the top gainers on the Nifty 50 index.

In April, Axis entities had increased their stake in Max Life from 12.99 per cent to 19.02 per cent, initially acquiring a stake in the company in 2020.

Max Financial Services, the holding company of Max Life Insurance, engages in investment business and provides management advisory services.
Strong profit growth, geopolitical tailwinds and favorable demographics have presented a compelling investment case for the country. From the end of 2019 through Tuesday, the MSCI India Index surged 110%, ahead of the U.S. tech-heavy indexs 99% gain. Even more surprising, though, is how well India has fared compared with what isfor now, at leastthe worlds largest emerging stock market: MSCI China is down by 30% over the same period.

The contrasting fortunes of the two Asian markets mirror their economic realities. Chinas imploding housing market continues to be a drag on its economy while a regulatory crackdown has sunk the countrys once-highflying tech companies. Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba, for example, has lost around three-quarters of its value since its peak in 2020.

Indias market, on the other hand, is riding powerful economic tailwinds. Its economy grew by 7.8% year over year in the first quarterthe fastest among major economies. That has fed through to corporate earnings: Net profit for listed Indian companies grew 17% year over year for the quarter ended in March, according to Morgan Stanley. Developed countries drive to diversify their supply chains away from China has led to an investment boom in manufacturing. Its young populationIndias median age is 28.6, compared with Chinas 39.5also makes it more appealing.

But differing growth rates only explain part of the discrepancy in stock performance: Higher multiples also are driving the rally, and those are prone to overshoot or undershoot. The iShares MSCI India exchange-traded fund fetches 23 times forward earnings, rising from 19 times at the beginning of 2020, according to FactSet. A similar fund tracking Chinese stocks has dropped from 12 times to below 10 times.

The other large global stock market with a similar price tag to Indias is the U.S., led by AI darlings such as Nvidia. China, by contrast, is near the bottom of the league table, sporting a multiple similar to that of slow-growing, heavily indebted Italy. Indian stocks trade at around a 60% premium to other markets in the Asia-Pacific region, excluding Japan, according to Goldman Sachs, compared with an average of 50% over the past five years.

Foreign investors have been net sellers of Indian stocks this year after $21 billion of inflows in 2023, but much of that came after May when the Indian election outcome was hanging in the balance. The MSCI India Index fell 6% on June 4 after early polls indicated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an economic reformer and a favorite of Western investors, might not secure the parliamentary majority the market was hoping for. The market has since rebounded as Modis party managed to stay in power together with its allies. Foreign investors started tiptoeing back into the market in the past week.

India is increasingly a market that global investors cant ignore. In the rebalancing effective at the end of last month, MSCI increased Indias weighting while cutting that of China in its benchmark emerging markets index. India now makes up around 18%, up from just 8% in 2020, while Chinas weighting has declined to 27% from 40%, according to Northern Trust.

India has long been billed as the next China," yet it has had many false starts. With a larger, younger population and a reformist wind at its back, Indias stark valuation gap with the onetime emerging-market darling might not keep widening, but it certainly seems justified.

Write to Jacky Wong at jacky.wong@wsj.com
Investors are always looking for stocks with exceptional growth potential , particularly those capable of accelerating revenue growth and profitability.

When evaluating growth stocks, key factors to look for include robust revenue expansion, strong profit growth, impressive return ratios, and consistent dividends. This article highlights five rapidly growing stocks that exemplify these traits and offer promising opportunities across various sectors.

LTIMindtree

Larsen & Toubro Infotech and Mindtree merged in 2022 to become India's sixth-largest IT services company. It primarily offers IT services such as application development, maintenance, outsourcing, enterprise solutions, infrastructure management, and digital solutions.

Its principal business verticals are banking, finance and insurance, manufacturing, media, retail, travel, hospitality, and healthcare. The company has more than 700 clients across 30 countries.

In the past five years, sales have grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.7%, driven by healthy deal wins, improved cross-selling and up-selling opportunities, and an increased ability to bid for large deals.

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (Ebitda) and net profit grew at a CAGR of 25.8% and 24.7%, respectively, due to high employee utilisation and client additions. Although profit margins fell slightly owing to merger-related integration costs, return on capital employed (RoCE) and return on equity (RoE) averaged 27% and 37%, respectively.

The company also has zero debt and pays large dividends to shareholders. Over the past five years, the dividend payout and dividend yield averaged 35% and 1.3%, respectively.

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Currently, the company is focused on cross-selling and up-selling opportunities to win new deals and acquire more clients. It is also looking at improving profit margins by reducing discretionary spending and tail rationalisation  focusing on the most profitable projects and eliminating the least profitable ones.

It these efforts are successful, investors can expect strong revenue and profit growth.

Varun Beverages

One of the largest franchisees of PepsiCo worldwide, the company produces and distributes a wide range of carbonated and non-carbonated drinks and packaged water. It sells popular brands such as Pepsi, Seven-Up, Mirinda, Mountain Dew and Tropicana.

The company has 43 manufacturing facilities in India and abroad, and a robust distribution network of more than 110 owned depots, 2,500 owned vehicles, 2,400 primary distributors, and 925,000 visi coolers.

Its robust distribution network has given it a unique advantage, helping it become the market leader and grow its sales at a CAGR of 17.6% over the past five years.

Varun Beverages also has large facilities with backward integration for producing crowns, plastic closures, corrugated boxes and shrink-wrap film. This has helped it cut costs and grow Ebitda and net profit at a CAGR of 19.9% and 34.8%, respectively.

Profit margins have also expanded over the past few years due to operational efficiencies. The five-year average Ebitda and net profit stand at 20.6% and 9.2%, respectively. RoE and RoCE have also expanded consistently, with the five-year average at 20.7% and 22.6%, respectively.

Although not a huge dividend payer, the company pays regular dividends to its shareholders. In the past five years, the dividend payout and dividend yield averaged 9.6% and 0.2%, respectively.

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As one of the largest franchisees of PepsiCo, the company has worked on improving its network and expanding its production facilities. In December 2023, it laid the foundation for its 44th manufacturing facility with a capital expenditure of 2.7 billion, and also plans to set up three new manufacturing facilities in Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Odisha. It has also acquired franchisee rights in South Africa as part of its international expansion.

Going forward, both revenue and profitability are expected to grow in the medium term.

Titan

Titan, part of the Tata Group, is one of India's most respected lifestyle companies. Its established products include watches, eyewear and jewellery, and it recently expanded into fragrances, bags and apparel.

The company owns several popular brands such as Skinn, Fastrack, Titan Eye+, Tanishq, and Sonata. It is the world's fifth-largest watch manufacturer and accounts for more than 6% of India's jewellery market.

Titan has an extensive network of outlets across product categories, including 898 jewellery outlets, 1,080 exclusive and 8,000 multi-brand watch outlets, and 975 eye-wear outlets. It also has a presence in more than 200 large stores for its emerging businesses. It operates in more than 40 countries.

Strong distribution networks in India and abroad have helped the company clock impressive sales growth of 15.5% (CAGR) in the past five years. Ebitda and net profit grew at a CAGR of 19.5% and 18.7%, respectively, over this period. Profit margins also expanded due to operating leverage and a growing share of high-margin jewellery and watches. As a result, RoE and RoCE also expanded, averaging 21.9% and 32.2%, respectively, in the past five years.

Titan is also known for consistently paying dividends to its shareholders, with a five-year average dividend payout and dividend yield of 29.9% and 0.4%, respectively.

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It is also investing in expanding in India and abroad. In the next few years, it aims to expand Tanishqs presence from 265 towns to 300 towns. It also plans to expand its emerging businesses rapidly to capture the growing demand for apparel. The companys strong growth plans will drive its revenue and profit growth in the medium term.

Polycab India

India's leading manufacturer of cables and wires, Polycab has a large portfolio of cables, wires and allied products such as PVC conduits, lugs and glands. It recently entered consumer electrical product segments such as fans, switches, switchgear, LED lights, luminaries, solar inverters and pumps.

The company has a 24% market share in the domestic organised wires and cables sector and is present in more than 76 countries. It has 25 manufacturing facilities, and a network of over 4,300 distributors, 200,000 retail outlets, 23 warehouses, four regional offices, nine local offices, and 17 experience centres in India.

Sales grew at a CAGR of 12.1% in the past five years due to a growing share of the organised cables and wires sector and a large contribution from the consumer electricals business.

Ebitda and net profit grew at a CAGR of 14.1% and 20.7%, respectively, due to the company's ability to pass on increased raw-material costs to its customers. Profit margins thus expanded as well, averaging 12.1% and 8.1%, respectively. RoE and RoCE averaged 18.1% and 25.4% over the past five years.

Polycab India has also consistently increased its dividend payout. The dividend payout and dividend yield averaged 17.6% and 0.7%, respectively, in the past five years.

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The company has ambitious growth plans and aims to spend 7 billion on capex in each of the next two years.

Three-fourths of this capex will go to the cables and wire business to set up a high-voltage manufacturing plant, and the rest will be allocated to the consumer electricals business for maintenance and removing bottlenecks. It plans to fund the entire capex through internal accruals, indicating that it has adequate liquidity.

The company's expansion plans could further fuel its growth and boost revenue and profits in the medium term.

Bharat Electronics

Formed under the ministry of defence, Bharat Electronics is a multi-product, multi-technology conglomerate that provides products and systems to the defence sector.

It has a large product portfolio that includes radars, fire control systems, missile systems, communication systems, tank electronics, and gun upgrades. It recently began producing supplying weapons systems and lithium-ion batteries. It is also undertaking solar power plant projects and has partnered with ISRO for satellite assembly, integration and testing.

It has also secured business from the Security Analytics Center (SAC), and is working on data-diode solutions for DRDO. It also provides an automatic fare collection system for railway and metro projects.

In the defence sector, it works on requirements for drone payloads, data linkages, and ground control stations. It also provides drone guard systems and is developing RF and IR seekers, missiles, and arms and ammunition.

In the past five years, the companys revenue has grown at a CAGR of 7.8% on account of a large order book. Ebitda and net profit grew at a CAGR of 7.6% and 9.7%, respectively, due to high order execution. Ebitda margin and net margin averaged 21.8% and 15.1%, respectively in the past five years. RoE and RoCE expanded as well, averaging 19.4% and 26.9%, respectively.

Bharat Electronics is also a large dividend payer. Its dividend payout ratio and dividend yield averaged 44.3% and 2.9%, respectively, in the past five years.

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While the company is already on its growth path, it has secured several orders from prestigious clients, including the Indian Army. It has also signed contracts to jointly develop long-range, dual-band, infrared search-and-track systems, and a chip factory.

All of this should boost the companys revenue and net profit in the medium term.

Should you invest in high-growth companies?

High-growth companies are often market leaders in their industries. They can be attractive investments as their stock prices can shoot up quickly. However, the success of these companies depends heavily on prevailing economic conditions, and their stocks can be extremely volatile during uncertain times.

Its best to treat growth stocks with caution, like any other stock, and consider them only for long-term investment.

Happy investing!

Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only. It is not a stock recommendation and should not be treated as such.

This article is syndicated from Equitymaster.com
Form 16 holds significant importance for employed individuals in India during the income tax filing process. It includes comprehensive information such as salary details, claimed deductions, and the tax deducted at source (TDS) by the employer throughout the fiscal year. This data automatically populates most sections of your tax return, streamlining the filing process by eliminating the need for manual data entry.

Furthermore, referencing Form 16 ensures the accuracy of your tax return, aligning it precisely with the income reported to the government by your employer. This practice helps in preventing discrepancies and potential tax liabilities from the Income Tax Department.

Multiple Form 16 from different employers Section 203 of the Income Tax Act establishes the statutory framework for Form 16, which employers are obligated to issue. This certificate specifically outlines income earned from salary. This raises a pertinent question: What happens if an individual changes jobs frequently in a year?

For those new to filing their Income Tax Returns (ITRs), its important to note that if you worked for a single employer throughout the year, you will receive one Form 16 covering the entire financial year. This form consolidates all tax deductions and deposits made by the employer across quarters. However, if you had multiple employers during the year, each employer will issue a Form 16 for the duration of your employment with them.

Scanning Form 16 for employment details Part A of Form 16 summarizes your TDS information for the financial year, whereas Part B delves deeper into your salary income and tax deductions. Part B provides a detailed breakdown of the figures mentioned in Part A, offering a more comprehensive view. Additionally, Part B may include information on any advance tax payments made during the year. If you held multiple jobs in the financial year, Part B might also segregate income details from different employers into separate sections.
According to JLLs recent report, India's residential sector is expected to reach 290,000 to 300,000 units of sales due to robust demand and quality launches. The mid-segment price category has dominated sales, while the premium segment has seen a 22% increase. Luxury segment sales have also seen an 83% increase, with developers launching projects to cater to the demand trend. India's luxury real estate sector is experiencing a growing demand due to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.

Besides, this overwhelming increase in spacious luxury houses is also attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic because people with high purchasing capacity seek liveable spaces with ample safety and amenity features.

The soaring rich class India's millennials, comprising 36% of the population, accounted for 54% of homebuyers last year, with an estimated combined spending power of over US$330 billion. With rising disposable income, they seek bigger homes and invest in high-end housing units, with luxury housing sales in India's top seven cities jumping five-fold from 2018 to 2023.

Some studies claim that global wealth managers and private equity firms have produced more millionaires in Indias financial capital, Mumbai, than in Rome in the last few years. Eventually, the real estate market in India is currently witnessing high demand from these burgeoning young millennials.

A survey by Sotheby's International Realty also depicts similar trends, showing a growing number of high-net-worth individuals, including NRIs, considering purchasing luxury real estate in India. Amidst these developments, the demand for luxury homes is increasing phenomenally as the growing affluent class aspires for superior amenities, spacious living areas, distinctive designs, prestigious addresses, a healthy lifestyle, and a high return on investment.

Moreover, the uptick in NRI participation reflects renewed confidence in the Indian property market and the appeal of investing in premium and luxury real estate, particularly in Goa, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR.

A very interesting fact is unveiled in the Luxury Outlook Survey 2024. The findings of the survey reveal that the majority of holiday home buyers prefer Goa as a second home destination.

Lets explore what are the salient features of Goas real estate that appeal to both HNIs and NRIs.

Goa is becoming India's primary destination for luxury and ultra-luxury properties due to its picturesque location, favourable climate, and perfect balance of nature living and modern comforts. Smart houses and healthy living have become increasingly important for residents, as they reflect their social status and work-life balance. Second homes and facilities have become essential for buyers, offering safety and wider spaces for healthy living.

Goa is a well-connected state and is expected to improve with the opening of the MOPA airport, leading to increased flights and a boost in the tourism sector. The growth of nurturing gated communities, with top-notch security and improved medical facilities, is also driving the growth of luxury homes. Sustainability is driving the future of luxury holiday homes, emphasising intangibles like creating meaningful connections with customers and contributing to the environment.

Goa's hidden natural and cultural beauty has attracted many tourists, and with the work-from-home culture becoming a norm, more people are looking to make Goa their permanent home. North Goa and Sindhudurg are already thriving grounds for luxury housing, plotted developments, farmhouse communities, grand villas, and second homes. The robust housing demand, growing income stability, and infrastructure developments will ensure that this area continues to be a popular investment destination.

NRIs are lured by lucrative realty market in India India's luxury real estate market is experiencing a significant transformation, with an expected CAGR of over 5% in 2023-2028. The demand for high-end residential properties is increasing due to the allure of opulent living spaces, cutting-edge amenities, and prime locations. Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are increasingly investing in India's luxury real estate, injecting $13.1 billion into the market in the previous year. By 2025, NRIs are expected to account for 20% of the country's total real estate investments.

Investing in luxury real estate in India is a strategic move for NRIs to diversify their investment portfolios, as real estate assets provide a hedge against market volatility and offer prestige and long-term value appreciation. The competitive pricing in key destinations like Goa, coupled with increasing rental yields and potential for property appreciation, make it an attractive option for NRIs seeking long-term investment gains and capital appreciation.

Real estate developers in India are also offering upscale amenities that cater to the refined global lifestyle of NRIs, such as state-of-the-art security systems, smart home technologies, wellness centres, and premium concierge services. This collaboration between top-tier developers and NRIs highlights the increasing sophistication and international appeal of luxury real estate in India.

In conclusion, the soaring rich class, comprising 36% of the population, accounted for 54% of homebuyers last year, with an estimated combined spending power of over US$330 billion. The Indian economy attracts investment, leading to a surge in real estate demand and property prices in promising markets like Goa. This trend is expected to remain on an upward trajectory due to political stability in the country and Indias spectacular performance in the world economy.
Mutual funds are suitable for investors who prefer professional investment management and want to participate in the broader financial markets without having to select individual stocks or bonds themselves. Becoming wealthy through investing in mutual funds involves a disciplined approach and a long-term perspective.

It would be best to consider investing in mutual funds when you have long-term financial goals and are looking for a diversified investment option that matches your risk tolerance. Investing in mutual funds is also advisable when you have surplus funds available for investment after setting aside emergency savings and paying off high-interest debts. Additionally, mutual funds can be a good option if you're looking for flexibility regarding investment amount and liquidity.

Investing in mutual funds is ideal for various types of investors. How can you become rich by investing in mutual funds? And when should you consider investing in MFs?Here are key scenarios where mutual funds can be particularly beneficial.

Also Read: Best Mutual Funds to invest in 2024 Long term goals Mutual funds are highly advantageous for achieving long-term financial objectives, such as saving for retirement, purchasing a home, or funding education expenses. One of the key benefits of mutual funds is the power of compounding returns over time. As earnings from investments are reinvested, they generate additional returns, thereby accelerating the growth of your investments. This compounding effect is particularly beneficial when investing in the long term.

Moreover, mutual funds promote disciplined investing habits. By setting up systematic investment plans (SIPs), investors cultivate a consistent approach to wealth accumulation.

Additionally, mutual funds offer diversification across various asset classes, sectors, and geographic regions, reducing the risk associated with individual stocks or sectors. This diversification enhances portfolio stability and minimizes the impact of market volatility on your investments.

Also Read | NPS vs PPF vs EPF: Which investment tool is better to accumulate retirement fund? New Investors and Busy Professionals: Individuals who are new to the market or have demanding professional commitments should strongly consider investing in mutual funds. They offer a professionally managed, diversified portfolio, saving time and reducing the complexities of direct stock investment,

By opting for mutual funds, investors save valuable time and avoid the complexities associated with the direct stock investment, said Dr Ravi Singh, SVP - of Retail Research, Religare Broking Ltd.

Sectoral Bets If you believe certain sectors will outperform but are unsure which stocks to pick, sector-specific mutual funds are a good option. They spread the risk across multiple companies within the industry, enhancing growth potential.

Tax Savings Equity-Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) funds are a smart choice for tax-saving purposes. They offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, providing growth and tax efficiency, said Dr Ravi Singh

Overall, mutual funds are powerful tools for long-term wealth creation. They allow investors to build a robust financial foundation while benefiting from compounding returns and disciplined investment strategies.

Meanwhile, in the first two months of the current fiscal year (FY25), the mutual fund industry has witnessed an increase of more than 81 lakh investors' accounts. According to recent data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), the total number of mutual fund folios reached 18.6 crore by the end of May, marking a 4.6% rise from 17.78 crore recorded at the end of March.
Assam is grappling with severe flooding triggered by relentless rainfall in the wake of Cyclone Remal. The ongoing deluge has disrupted daily life and heightened the risk of landslides across the region.

According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), the floods have claimed 26 lives in the state this year alone. The torrential downpour has severely affected over 1.61 lakh residents across 15 districts. The death toll rose on Tuesday when one person drowned in floodwaters in Hailakandi district.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh until June 21. Additionally, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are forecasted to experience heavy rainfall on June 19 and 22. The IMD has issued a red alert for Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, and Arunachal Pradesh, indicating the potential for extremely heavy rainfall on June 19.

The Karimganj district has been severely impacted by flooding, which has affected over 1.52 lakh people, including 41,711 children. The inundation has particularly affected 225 villages across Nilambazar, RK Nagar, Karimganj, and Badarpur revenue circles. Authorities are actively taking measures to assist those affected by the flooding in Karimganj district.

Also Read | Sikkim landslides: Hundreds of stranded tourists to be evacuated today

22,464 people affected by the floods sought shelter in relief camps and distribution centres established by the district administration. The ASDMA flood report shows 470 villages across 28 revenue circles in 15 flood-hit districts have been impacted. The report also highlights floodwaters have submerged 1,378.64 hectares of crop area in 11 districts.

The ASDMA pointed out that the water level of the Brahmaputra River is flowing above the danger level mark in the Nagaon district. "Right now the water level is going up and down. There is a statue in the middle of the river and when the water reaches its neck, we realise that the water level has risen," ANI quoted a local as saying.
Australia quietly expelled four Indian spies for attempting to access sensitive information related to the country's defence, politicians and airport security protocols, according to Australia's national broadcaster, ABC.

The spies purportedly tried to gain access to sensitive information on Australia's defence technology and airport security protocols. The report also said that former and current Australian politicians were a target of these spies, along with officers of the state police service and people of the Indian diaspora living in Australia.

Australian officials were troubled after discovering the spy activities in 2020. This is around the same time that Canberra and New Delhi outwardly emphasised strong diplomatic and trade relations.

In 2021, Mike Burgess, Australias intelligence chief, revealed that a nest of spies had been uncovered without naming India. In response, Australia discreetly expelled at least four Indian intelligence agents who had been allegedly posing as diplomats.

Also Read | Ex-Brahmos engineer gets life imprisonment for spying for Pakistan ISI

Burgess stated that Australia's intelligence services had confronted the foreign spies and had quietly and professionally removed them.

The spies developed targeted relationships with current and former politicians, a foreign embassy and a state police service, he said in March 2021.

The top official said that the spies monitored their countrys diaspora community and tried to obtain classified information about Australias trade relationships.

Also Read | Chinas Li Begins Australia Trip With Symbolism Masking Tensions

According to the ABC investigation, the expulsion of the suspected spies was hushed to avoid public embarrassment for the Narendra Modi government, which has sought to project India as a major global player.

Burgess said at the time that the nation behind the spy operation was not from a country in our region and that naming it would be an unnecessary distraction.

However, Greens Senator David Shoebridge believed Australia should have publicly condemned India for its espionage activities.

Not only wouldve it been good to have an honest baseline for our relationship with India, but it wouldve also sent a message to the diaspora communities here that weve got your back, Shoebridge had said.

According to India's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, quoted by the Washington Post, the allegations made unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations on a serious matter."
A month after the Pune Porsche car accident, another high-profile hit-and-run case involving the daughter of a Rajya Sabha MP has come to the fore from Chennai, who allegedly ran her BMW over a man sleeping on a pavement in the capital city of Tamil Nadu.

NDTV reported that the man succumbed to his injuries, and Madhuri, the daughter of YSR Congress Party Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao, has got bail. The deceased has been identified as Surya, a 24-year-old painter.

On Monday night, the accused drove a BMW car with her female friend. She allegedly ran her car over the man who was sleeping in an inebriated state on the pavement in the Besant Nagar area of Chennai, the report said.

Madhuri fled the accident spot immediately, said officials, adding that her friend argued with the crowd gathered near the pavement. After some time, her friend also left the spot, and some people moved Surya to a nearby hospital. However, he died of his injuries.

Surya, who had been married only eight months, had his relatives and neighbours from his colony gather at the J-5 Shastri Nagar Police Station, demanding justice, as per NDTV reports.

Upon reviewing CCTV footage, the police discovered the car was registered in Puducherry and belonged to the BMR (Beeda Masthan Rao) Group. Madhuri was arrested but was granted bail at the police station.

Rao was elected as a Rajya Sabha MP in 2022 and has previously served as an MLA. The BMR Group, associated with him, is a prominent entity in the seafood industry.

Pune Porsche accident case On the other hand, the Pune Porsche case took place that happened on May 19 killed two IT professionals in Kalyani Nagar here after their motorcycle was hit by a speeding Porsche car allegedly driven by a minor in an inebriated condition.

The case sparked nationwide outrage when L N Danwade, a member of the Juvenile Justice Board, granted the accused bail on remarkably lenient terms, including the requirement to write a 300-word essay on road safety.

"The five-member committee submitted its 125-page report on Friday to the Women and Child Development department commissioner. The WCD department, after receipt of the report, has issued show cause notices to two JJB members who were appointed by the department," the source told PTI.

The report has found glaring lapses and mistakes while issuing the bail order by a single member of the JJB on May 19. Though the order granting bail was issued by one member, the other member gave consent the next day instead of reviewing the order. Misconduct and non compliance of norms has also been found on the part of the two members and they have been apprised about it, sources added.
The Rouse Avenue court on Wednesday extended the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and another accused Vinod Chauhan till July 3 in a money laundering case related to the Delhi Excise policy.

Both were produced before the court through video conferencing from Tihar Jail after the expiry of their judicial custody.

Here is what the investigation agency revealed during the hearing:

Also Read | Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwals judicial custody extended till July 3

The ED, though its counsel, said that Vinod Chauhan received  25 crore from K Kavitha's personal assistant through Abhishek Boinpally for the Goa election, reported ANI.

25 crore from K Kavitha's personal assistant through Abhishek Boinpally for the Goa election, reported ANI. They added that the  25 crore was a part of the  100 crore money trail.

25 crore was a part of the 100 crore money trail. The ED also added that so far,  45 crore has been traced. Till now  45 crore money trail has been traced.

"We had collected evidence even before the arrest," ASG Raju, representing the ED," said.

The IO also said that an investigation is going on against Vinod Chauhan. A prosecution complaint will be filed against him by the end of this month. He was arrested in May.

The ED said a prosecution complaint had already been filed against Arvind Kejriwal on May 17. It is reserved for orders on cognizance and listed on July 9.

The court was also informed that Chauhan is the person who handled  25 crore.

25 crore. A prosecution complaint in the form of an eighth Supplementary charge sheet will be filed by the ED by the end of this month.

Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21. A prosecution complaint was already filed on May 17. In total, there are 38 accused in the ED case including former minister Manish Sisodia.

However, Kejriwal's lawyer Vikram Chaudhary argued that the AAP supremo had not been named in any chargesheet filed under PMLA. "Even in the FIR lodged by the CBI, Kejriwal has not been named as an accused."
A Mumbai-bound IndiGo flight from Chennai received a bomb threat message on Tuesday, said an airport source. However, the plane landed safely at the Mumbai airport at 10.30 p.m. He stated that the bomb threat message was received at the private airline's call centre in New Delhi.

In an official statement, the airline said, IndiGo flight 6E 5149, operating from Chennai to Mumbai, had received a bomb threat. Upon landing in Mumbai, the crew followed protocol and the aircraft was taken to an isolation bay.

All passengers have safely disembarked the aircraft. We are working with security agencies and post completion of all security checks, the aircraft will be positioned back in the terminal area, the statement added as quoted by newswire PTI.

Earlier in the day, many other airports, including Chennai, Varanasi, Jaipur, and Patna, received bomb threat emails. However, each was found to be a hoax when authorities scrambled contingency measures and carried out hours-long anti-sabotage checks.

Security was beefed up as agencies swept the airport terminals after the emails were received around 12:40 p.m. from the ID exhumedyou888@gmail.com, PTI reported.

According to officials, the airports in Varanasi, Chennai, Patna, Nagpur, Jaipur, Vadodara, Coimbatore, and Jabalpur were among those that received the hoax threats.

Also Read | Air Canada Delhi-Toronto flight gets bomb threat

An online group called "KNR" is suspected to be behind these hoax threat emails. The group reportedly issued similar emails to several schools in the Delhi-NCR on May 1, sources told PTI.

The emails received by the airports carried almost the identical message: Hello, there are explosives hidden in the Airport. The bombs will soon explode. You will all die.

On Monday, a Dubai-bound plane also received a bomb threat via email at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport in Delhi, said authorities, adding that nothing suspicious was found when the flight was checked.
IMD Weather Update: North India may get relief from the intense heatwave conditions on June 19, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts.

Also Read | Indian stock market: 8 key things that changed for market overnight

As the monsoon continues to advance, the IMD forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall, with isolated extremely heavy falls, over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and the Assam-Meghalaya region over the next two days.

The IMD has issued a red alert for Uttar Pradesh from June 18 to 20. It also issued orange alerts for northern Madhya Pradesh for June 19, Uttar Pradesh on June 21/22.

For northern Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Jharkhand, a yellow alert is in place for June 19.

Below-normal Monsoon in June The IMD announced on June 18 that India will experience below-normal monsoon rainfall in June. The forecast comes as the north and northwestern parts of the country continue to reel under an intense heatwave. "The average June rainfall for the country as a whole is most likely to be below normal, i.e., less than 92 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA)," the IMD stated in an update to the monsoon forecast.



Since the onset of the southwest monsoon over Kerala on May 30, the country has received 20 per cent deficient rainfall, contributing to the ongoing heatwave conditions.

Isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Assam & Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh till June 2; Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram & Tripura on June 19, and June 22, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall forecast in some areas.

Also Read | LS Digital restructures operations, set to expand into US

Sikkim is expected to experience widespread light to moderate rainfall with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall on June 19, and heavy rainfall during June 20 to June 22.

IMD scientist Soma Sen told ANI, "A red alert has been issued in North India. The North-West Himalayan region of India, including Punjab and Haryana, will experience cloudy weather from the evening and rain is also expected. The heatwave situation is likely to reduce in Punjab and Haryana. From tomorrow, an orange alert will be issued in Delhi."
Two terrorists are believed to be killed in an encounter that broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Wednesday, officials said. Two security personnel have also reportedly sustained injuries, one police officer and one army jawan.

A cordon and search operation had been launched in the Watergam area on Wednesday following information about the presence of ultras there. The search operation progressed into a gunfight due to the terrorists opening fire on the two security personnel. This resulted in the terrorists' death and the police officer and jawan being injured.

Mr VK Birdi, inspector general police said, Two bodies are seen at the encounter site. Both the terrorists have been killed. Their identity is yet to be ascertained.

Kakapora terror attack A similar encounter was faced in Jammu and Kashmir a few weeks ago in Nihama's Kakapora village where two militants were killed in a similar event.

Security forces had received information about the presence of terrorists in the region which triggered a search and cordon operation.

The terrorists were identified as residents of Kakapora in Pulwama and commanders of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a terrorist organization.

This event occurred a day before the counting of votes for Lok Sabha polls and was not the only such incident prior to the current day.

The bodies of the terrorists have not been identified as of yet.

Reasi terror attack In Reasi, where a bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge after the terrorist attack on June 9, leaving nine dead and 33 others injured, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi Mohita Sharma on Wednesday said that the arrested person has been identified as Hakamdeen.

"A major breakthrough has been achieved in the case pertaining to the terrorist attack on the pilgrim bus which was coming from Shiv Khori on 9th June. In this, one terror associate, namely Hakam, age 45 years has been arrested by Jammu and Kashmir Police at Reasi.

Reasi SSP said that the arrested person was a prime militant associate who helped the terrorists in the execution of the attack.

"This person was involved in harbouring the terrorists multiple times. Along with providing food and shelter, the said person also acted as a guide and helped them reach the spot of the incident. The arrested person is a prime militant associate who helped the terrorists in the execution of the attack. Further interrogation and investigation of the case is going on," she added.
Mumbai bomb threat: The BMC headquarters received a threatening email from an unknown person late on June 18, ANI reported. Mumbai police searched the premises but did not find anything suspicious. They added that further investigation is underway.

"The unknown person threatened to blow up the BMC headquarters. We searched the building and did not find anything suspicious. Security has been heightened following the threat. Further investigation is underway," the officials said.

Hospitals Get Bomb Emails ANI added that earlier in the day, more than 50 hospitals in India's financial capital also got similar bomb threat emails on June 18.

Mumbai police also told ANI that the sender claimed bombs were planted in the bathrooms and under the beds of these hospitals, which included Jaslok Hospital, JJ Hospital, KEM Hospital, Kohinoor Hospital, Raheja Hospital, Seven Hill Hospital, St. George Hospital and others.

"The sender had used a VPN network to send the mail, which was sent from a website named Beeble.com. Upon receiving the information, a police team and bomb squad searched the hospitals, but nothing suspicious was found," officials said.

Hinduja College Alert Further, cops told ANI that Mumbai's Hinduja College of Commerce also received a bomb threat email early on June 18.

A team of police and a bomb squad searched the premises following the threat mail, but nothing suspicious was found. Mumbai's VP Road Police Station is looking into the matter, the report added.

Also Read | Justin Timberlake arrested for suspected drunk-driving outside New York City

Police Probe On The police said that they have registered a case and are investigating it.

As per a PTI report, more than 60 establishments in Mumbai get bomb threat emails, including colleges.

"... searches were carried out although nothing suspicious was found. The emails were received on Monday and Tuesday (June 17 and 18) from a single mail ID. The emails received on Tuesday were similar to those received on Monday, which said that there was a bomb threat to prominent private, state and civic-run hospitals and colleges across the city," a police official told PTI.

The process to register a case against unidentified persons is underway at the Azad Maidan police station, he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University at Rajgir in Bihar. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Governor Rajendra V Arlekar, and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also attended the event.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Nitish Kumar said, I welcome Prime Minister Modi, I congratulate and thank him. When I got to know that you are coming here, I was very happy...

Nalanda University launch: Top 10 quotes from PM Modi's speech in Bihar 1) I am happy that I got the opportunity to visit Nalanda within 10 days after swearing in as PM for the 3rd time...Nalanda is not just a name, it is an identity and respect. Nalanda is a value and mantra...fire can burn books but it can't destroy knowledge.

2) Nalanda was once the epicentre of India's educational identity. Education goes beyond borders, profits, and losses. Education shapes our thoughts and behaviour."

3) "During ancient times, admission to Nalanda University was not based on the nationality of the student. People from different walks of life used to come here in pursuit of education.

4) Nalanda will stand as a testimony to the fact that nations that are founded on strong human values are the nations which revive the past and lay the foundation for a better future."

5) Nalanda is not only the renaissance for India's heritage but also of the collective heritage of Asia and the world. Various nations have contributed to the reconstruction of Nalanda. I thank all of you for your efforts and trust in us.

6) Nalanda University is working towards making ASEAN- India University network... Many leading global institutions have joined in, and the 21st century is being called the Asian century.

7) My mission is to make India, the centre of education and knowledge to the world. My mission is to again make India's identity emerge as the world's most prominent knowledge centre...today more than 1 crore children are getting the benefits of exposure to the latest technology in Atal Tinkering Lab...

Also Read | PM Modi to inaugurate Nalanda University today: Top 10 things to know

8) "The rebuilding of Nalanda is going to start the golden era of India...Nalanda's reawakening, this new campus, will give the world an introduction to India's capability..."

9) Nalanda is the first-ever campus in India which will work on the model of - Net Zero energy, Net Zero emissions, Net Zero waste - Working on the idea of 'Be your own light', this campus will guide the world.

10) Nalanda University will soon become an important centre for our cultural exchange programmes. Documentation of various artworks from India and Southeast Asia is being undertaken here.. Common Archival Resources Centre is also being established here.
On its second day of rescue operations, the Sikkim administration evacuated 1,225 tourists from Lachung and surrounding areas in Mangan district. Last week, the region was struck by multiple landslides and heavy rain, which, according to an official statement, resulted in at least six fatalities.

The evacuation of over 1,200 stranded tourists in North Sikkim, stuck since June 12th and 13th, began on June 17th. The Trishakti Corps troops are playing a significant role in expediting relief operations led by civil authorities. Owing to numerous landslides, tourists are transported on foot or by vehicle wherever roads are accessible, as reported by the PRO Defence.

Sikkim landslides: What we know so far and other updates in 10 points

1)The Sikkim administration evacuated 1,225 tourists from Lachung and nearby areas of Mangan district on Tuesday. If the weather permits, the remaining tourists, who are said to be a few hundred, will be evacuated on Wednesday. "We have evacuated 1225 tourists from Lachung and surrounding regions and brought them to Mangan town by road today," Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Vishnu Lama said, PTI reported.

2)In addition to the District Magistrate, the Superintendent of Police (SP) Sonam Detchu Bhutia, other senior civil and police officials, BRO, NDRF, SDRF, local panchayats, and volunteers are coordinating the rescue of the stranded tourists.

3)The rescue operation began after the BRO restored connectivity between Chungthang and Mangan via the recently built bridge at Toong over the Teesta River.

4)The Mangan district administration on Tuesday ordered the immediate closure of all government schools in the district due to students' safety concerns, including damage to property and road blockages.

5)An order issued by District Magistrate Hem Kumar Chettri said government schools in the Manul, Singhik, Mangan, and Mangshilla clusters of Mangan block and the Lingdong, Hee Gyathang, Passingdong, Lingzya, Tingvong, and Gor clusters of Dzongu block will remain closed until further orders.

6)Incessant rains since June 12 wreaked havoc in Mangan, causing multiple landslides, and severing connectivity to most parts of the district.

7)Due to the blockage of various roads at several locations, around 1,200-1,500 tourists got stranded in Lachung town since June 12

8) The situation became grave after the collapse of the newly constructed suspension bridge at Sanklang, as it was the main connection to North Sikkim and Dzongu.

Sikkim rainfall: Check IMD updates here The weather department has also predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in Sikkim from June 18-20.
Amid hullaballoo concerning National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2024 examinations, the Allahabad High Court on Wednesday dismissed a writ petition filed by a NEET aspirant. The student had alleged that the NTA has failed to declare her result. She also alleged that her OMR sheet was found torn.

However, the Allahabad HC dismissed the writ petition when it came to light that the NEET aspirant, Ayushi Patel, had submitted forged documents, thereby leading to the cancellation of her answer script.

What did NEET aspirant Ayushi Patel allege? Ayushi Patel filed a Writ Petition in the Allahabad High Court alleging that the NTA informed her that her result would not be declared due to her OMR sheet being torn.

Patel insisted on a manual evaluation of her OMR Sheet for the NEET UG 2024 exam and called for action against the NTA. This comes amidst a nationwide protest against the testing agency regarding the allocation of 'grace marks' to multiple students.

What did Allahabad HC say? Be that as it may, this is really sorry state of affairs that the petitioner filed a petition enclosing therewith the forged and fictitious documents, therefore, this Court can not restrain the competent authority / authorities to take any legal action against the petitioner strictly in accordance with law, the High Court said.

The petitioner may face legal repercussions for her claims, as suggested by the NTA in their court submission.
New Delhi: Three contenders have queued up for Carlyle Groups stake in telecom major Bharti Airtels data centre arm Nxtra Data Ltd, according to two people aware of the development.

Private equity giant KKR, Singapores sovereign wealth fund GIC Holdings Pte. Ltd, and digital infrastructure-oriented alternative asset manager DigitalBridge Group Inc are in the fray for the 24% stake.

The deal is likely to have an enterprise value of around $700 million, the people added. The secondary minority sale deal process is being run by Bank of America.

The stake sale process is ongoing," said one of the two people cited above who did not want to be named.

Carlyle through its affiliate CA Cloud Investments acquired 24% in Nxtra for $235 million or about 1,800 crore in 2020. While the American equity firm is selling its entire stake, Bharti Airtel continues to hold the remaining stake.

Also read | Nxtra partners Bloom Energy to reduce carbon emissions through fuel cell tech

Queries to KKR, Carlyle Group, Bharti Airtel and GIC did not elicit a response as of Tuesday evening press time. Bank of America and DigitalBridge Group declined to comment.

The Economic Times had reported on 22 February that ADIA, Stonepeak, Permira, GIC, KKR and DigitalBridge were being tapped to acquire Carlyles stake.

There is significant investor interest in Indias digital and physical infrastructure space. A case in point being New York-based private equity firm I Squared Capital and alternative investment firm Stonepeak vying for acquiring Vodafone Groups 21.5% stake in Indus Towers in a deal potentially valued at around $2.3 billion as reported by Mint on Monday.

Airtel's Data Centre Business

Gurugram-based Nxtra Data Ltd, a subsidiary of Indias second largest telecom carrier that began operations in 2013, offers a large network of secure and sustainable data centres in India to leading enterprises, hyperscalers, start-ups, SMEs and governments.

Competing in the high-demand digital infrastructure sector against companies like Yotta and NTT, Nxtra has chalked out plans to ramp up capacity.

Competing in the high-demand digital infrastructure sector with several companies such as local player Yotta and Japans NTT, Nxtra claims to have the largest network of data centres in India with 12 large and 120 edge data centres across the country.

Also read | Yotta looking to raise equity-based funding amid Nvidia spotlight

The company has chalked out plans to ramp up capacity and is investing 5,000 crore in seven new facilities in Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Delhi to double its current current 200MW capacity to 400MW by 2025.

NTT executives told Mint last year that it intends to add eight new data centres that were under construction and was expanding its existing 14 centres in 15 cities across the country. Yotta Data Services is also expanding its data centre in Greater Noida, while also commencing work on an edge data centre in Guwahati, Mint reported in December.

The Data Centre Boom

With artificial intelligence (AI) and generative AI (GenAI) deployment rising in enterprises, the compute capacity required will rise exponentially, leading to massive growth in data centre requirements especially in markets like India and US, leading to a significant upside in revenues from these markets in the coming years.

According to report by real estate consulting firm CBRE South Asia, Indias data centre capacity is expected to cross 1,300 MW by the end of 2024 from 880 MW as of June 2023, with nearly 500 MW currently under construction.

Also read | Investors keep the faith in Indian social startups, eye GenAI models

Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore will collectively dominate the data centre stock with an 80% share by the end of 2024, according to CBRE. The report added that the local data centre industry was witnessing a continuous uptrend owing to rapid digitalisation, enhancement of tech infrastructure and the inclusion of advanced technologies such as 5G, AI, blockchain and cloud computing.

Financial services advisory firm Avendus Capital pegged $23 billion investments towards capex on data centres over the next 10 years, in a report in June 2023, driven by the exponential increase in data consumption, storage, governmental thrust on data localisation besides the need for high bandwidth following the launch of 5G services by telecom service providers.

Besides commercial requirements, the government is also pushing for data localization under provisions of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, which has necessitated the need for data centres.

The Centre also laid out plans to implement a policy to encourage firms to build data centre parks, including providing infrastructure status, which will help them access benefits such as long-term credit at easier terms.
In a promising development for Indian travellers, Taiwan is actively considering the implementation of visa-on-arrival (VoA) for Indian citizens.

Deputy Foreign Minister of Taiwan, Tien Chung-kwang expressed this intention, highlighting India's significant outbound travel and the potential benefits of easing visa procedures.

Speaking to reporters in Taipei on Tuesday, he acknowledged the proposal and emphasised the necessity of internal discussions with Taiwan's Immigration Department before any formal decision can be made. He underscored the collaborative nature of such a policy change, indicating that it cannot be enacted single-handedly by the government.

"Indian citizens travel a lot...We are considering this (visa-on-arrival). We are going to talk with the Immigration Department. The Government can't single-handedly (do it), we have to discuss internally," he said.

"We have been proposed to have a visa-on-arrival. We are giving very serious consideration," Tien Chung-kwang stated, reflecting Taiwan's proactive stance on facilitating tourism and business travel from India.

When the Indian government initiated "Look East Policy" in early 1991, Taiwan and India started to approach each other and loosen visa restrictions.

This development comes after Taiwan's Deputy Foreign Minister strongly rejected China's objection to the recent exchange of messages between Taiwan President Lai Ching Te and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after the latter's election win.

"I am sure Modi ji and our President will not be intimidated by that reaction," the Deputy Foreign Minister of Taiwan said.

The Chinese Embassy in India recently reiterated that Taiwan is an "inalienable part" of the territory of China.

The embassy's spokesperson further emphasised that the one-China is a universally recognised norm in international relations and a prevailing consensus in the international community.

The India-Taiwan economic partnership has grown significantly in recent years. Taiwan has considered India as a critical partner under its 'New Southbound Policy', and both countries have also signed a migration agreement to allow Indian workers to be employed in Taiwanese industries.
Top news of the day: On 19 June, a series of events are set to take place right from politics to business. Profit booking at higher levels caused the Indian stock market benchmark index Nifty 50 to snap its five-session winning streak. PM Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University at Rajgir in Bihar. Centre is working on a new advisory considering the prevalent heatwave situation, especially in the Northern parts in India.

Stock market today: Nifty 50 snaps 5-day winning streak on profit booking at higher levels Profit booking at higher levels caused the Indian stock market benchmark index Nifty 50 to snap its five-session winning streak on Wednesday, June 19. Shares of select heavyweights, including Reliance Industries, Larsen and Toubro, and Bharti Airtel, were the top drags on the index. Read more

Govt plans to issue new advisory as severe heatwave in northern India claims 5 lives in Delhi The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led India Government is working on a new advisory considering the prevalent heatwave situation, especially in the Northern parts in India, news agency ANI reported. This comes as Delhi continues to be in the grip of a heatwave with maximum temperature "feeling" like 51 degree Celsius as per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Read more

Sorry state of affairs: Allahabad HC raps NEET aspirant for seeking action against NTA. Here's why Amid hullaballoo concerning National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2024 examinations, the Allahabad High Court on Wednesday dismissed a writ petition filed by a NEET aspirant. The student had alleged that the NTA has failed to declare her result. She also alleged that her OMR sheet was found torn. Read more

Arvind Kejriwal demanded bribe of  100 crore, ED says 'it has proof'; what investigation agency revealed The Rouse Avenue court on Wednesday extended the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and another accused Vinod Chauhan till July 3 in a money laundering case related to the Delhi Excise policy. Read more

AAP's Atishi threatens indefinite fast in letter to PM Modi: If Delhi does not get its water share by 21 June Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and minister in the Delhi government, Atishi, has threatened to go on an 'indefinite fast' in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the letter, Atishi warned that if Delhi did not get its share of water by June 21, she would go on an 'indefinite fast'. Read more

Akme Fintrade IPO: 10 key risks investors should know before subscribing to the  132- crore issue Udaipur-based Akme Fintrade's IPO was completely subscribed on the first day, with retail and non-institutional investors leading the way. The non-banking financial company's 132 crore offering, which launched today, has two more days to navigate its way towards huge subscription numbers. Akme Fintrade IPO subscription status was 3.01 times on the first day of bidding. Read more

DEE Development Engineers IPO booked 2.51x on Day 1; retail, NII fully subscribed. Check GMP, subscription status DEE Development Engineers IPO kicked off the first day of bidding with a great deal of response from retail and non-institutional investors, and both portions were fully booked within a few hours of the opening. DEE Development IPO subscription status was 2.51 times, as per BSE data. Read more
A Bengaluru employee called it a shame that he had see an empty co-working space at 6:30 PM. the social media user, named Sagar Lele, shared the photograph of the empty office space.

There was a time when I'd have to reach office at 7am and leave at 2am for me to be the first to reach and last to leave. This is a co-working space in Bangalore at 6:30pm. Shame, he wrote.

His post was, however, heavily contested by other social media users who advocated work-life balance in their comments.

Netizens react Get a life! Start living before its too late. Impact counts not hours, posted one user.

What did you expect, GOLD MEDAL? Sorry but no, people are smart these days. More time doesnt mean more output. Putting concentrated 8 hrs is very productive. Rest of the time is for family and for ownself, one user wrote.

There was a time when Id reach at 9 but leave at 2-3-4am depending on deliverables. I decided to run my own firm and make sure this doesnt happen to anyone working with me. 7 years in business and fortunately all are on time, another user wrote.

Also Read | Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf charges at fan thinking he is Indian, netizens react

You decided to waste 120 seconds by writing this tweet. Instead, you could have focused your energies on building another loss-making unicorn or writing a narcissistic motivational post on LinkedIn or creating a cringe podcast talking about your "achievements", another user posted in apparent sarcasm.
Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who is on an India visit along with House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman Michael McCaul and other members of the congressional delegation, met the Dalai Lama's residence in Himachal Pradesh's McLeod Ganj on Wednesday to meet with the Tibetan spiritual leader.

She expressed her opinion regarding the solution to the Tibet dispute. She stated that President Joe Biden would soon sign a bill that would add some pressure on China to resolve the Tibet issue.

Pelosi visited the Dalai lama residence in McLeod Ganj after visiting Tibet with the delegation. She opined that China are trying to erase the culture by reducing the use of the language and the USA can't let that happen.

"...There was a visit of the President of China to Washington, DC and I said to him, we are objecting to what you are doing to the culture of Tibet. He said, you know what you're talking about, you should go there and see for yourself all the improvements that China is making in Tibet. I said, thank you because I've been trying for 25 years to get a visa to go to Tibet," news agency ANI quoted her as saying in Himachal Pradesh.

"We went to the Potala Palace. We saw the room where His Holiness grew up... They are trying to erase the culture by reducing the use of the language. They are trying something that we cannot let them get away with. I'll be gracious to the Chinese people, I don't know that they're up to this, but we do know that the Chinese government is, and we do know that they must get the message. This legislation sends the message, the House and the Senate and soon to be signed by Joe Biden, the president of the United States..," she added.

According to the new bill  Resolve Tibet Act  the USA is calling on China to resume talks with Tibetan leaders where a resolution on governance disagreement can take peacefully.

The Resolve Tibet Act also aims to urge China address the desires of the Tibetan people concerning their historical, cultural, religious, and language identity, reported Hindustan Times.

The US delegation, led by Nancy Pelosi, arrived at Kangra airport in Dharamshala on Tuesday. The delegation includes Rep Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Speaker Emerita, Rep Gregory Meeks, Rep Nicole Malliotakis, Rep Jim McGovern, and Rep Ami Bera.
A group of Palestinian men approached a United Nations warehouse in central Gaza last week and demanded access to aid stored inside. The gang wasnt interested in food, fuel or medicine. It wanted something it considered far more valuable: contraband cigarettes hidden in the humanitarian cargo.

The incident, described by a U.N. official, is emblematic of a significant new impediment to aid deliveries in the enclave. Rampant cigarette smugglingfueled by high prices for tobaccohas become the latest manifestation of a breakdown in law and order that is slowing the delivery of lifesaving assistance.

Aid trucks and storage depots have become targets for Palestinian smugglers seeking to retrieve illicit smokes stashed inside shipments by their accomplices, say U.N. and Israeli officials. Other local criminals are also attacking vehicles they suspect have cigarettes hidden somewhere on board, they say.

Cigarettes sell for as much as $25 apiece in isolated Gaza, so getting hold of even a pack can be enormously profitable.

Prices have soared for smokes since Israel limited imports into Gaza to essential goodswhich doesnt include cigarettesafter the Oct. 7 attacks in which Hamas militants and others poured into southern Israel and killed around 1,200 people, according to authorities. More than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed in the ensuing war, according to Palestinian health authorities.

Trade in cigarettes managed to continue for months, with smokes surreptitiously making it through the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, which Hamas-backed authorities controlled. But when Israeli forces seized control of that crossing on May 6, the door was slammed shut on cigarette deliveries. Cigarette smugglers found another route through the Kerem Shalom crossing between Israel and Gaza but were unable to pull trucks aside to unload their contraband, as they had at Rafah.

Criminal attacks on aid convoys have become so severe that over a thousand truckloads of aid have been left sitting on the Gaza side of the Kerem Shalom border crossing with Israel. Even a daily Israeli pause in fighting along a critical supply route hasnt been enough to get aid groups to move shipments.

This is threatening to undermine everything were trying to do," a U.N. official said.

Aid groups say there are other challenges aside from cigarette smuggling that are hampering efforts to distribute aid. Israel places limits on the flow of aid, they charge, and fighting, lawlessness and the widespread destruction of roads and infrastructure have made it too difficult for them to safely deliver and distribute it throughout the Gaza Strip.

Israel says it puts no limits on the amount of aid that can enter Gaza, has fixed roads used by aid convoys, and that the U.N. and other aid groups havent increased their capacity enough.

Some aid groups have been especially hesitant to put workers at risk after an Israeli military strike in April killed seven World Central Kitchen workers in Gaza. The Israeli military said it had misidentified the group as militants.

A second U.N. official said that on Tuesday, three armed men arrived at another U.N. warehouse in central Gaza, demanding to search through the aid. They found the cigarettes they were looking for in a box of aid. The Wall Street Journal viewed a picture of the box with a U.N. logo ripped open, exposing cartons of Karelia cigarettes inside.

Cigarettes have become like the new gold in Gaza," the official said.

Israeli officials said they have found cigarettes being smuggled among aid or carried by drivers. Sometimes smugglers tuck one or two packs into hollowed out watermelons or stuff them into a bag or carton of legitimate goods, said a Palestinian familiar with the smuggling operations.

The Israelis conduct thorough checks on a few selected boxes but cannot possibly inspect every single pack, box or carton," he said.

A Palestinian man in Deir al Balah said he saw armed men on aid trucks open three bags of flour that had fallen off one of the trucks to check them carefully. When they found nothing, they hopped back on the truck and moved on.

If those bags had contained cigarettes, those men would have killed anyone who touched them," said the man.

Distributing aid has been one of the biggest humanitarian challenges of the war in Gaza, where U.N. experts say people face widespread hunger or malnutrition. The main U.N. agency operating in Gaza said 1,656 aid trucks entered the enclave in May. In the first half of June, 460 came in. Before the war, some 500 trucks of commercial goods entered the Gaza Strip daily, in addition to 100 trucks of humanitarian aid for those in need, according to the U.N.

Scott Anderson, the Gaza-based director of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, said the agency has been unable to send trucks to collect goods from Kerem Shalom since Saturday because of security concerns.

People no longer smoke in public in Gaza. For those who are wealthy enough to smoke, it is a private affair.

Surely, anyone who smokes a cigarette costing more than $10 feels ashamed to show their face to their children while smoking, knowing that their addiction is an illness," said Abu Suleiman, 66 years old, from Deir al Balah.

Saleh al-Batati and Abeer Ayyoub contributed to this article.

Write to Stephen Kalin at stephen.kalin@wsj.com and Dov Lieber at dov.lieber@wsj.com
Israel and Lebanese militia Hezbollah are inching toward a wider war, even as the U.S. works frantically to stop the conflict in Gaza spreading to Israels northern border.

The Israeli military said Tuesday it had approved plans for an assault inside Lebanon should a larger-scale conflict between it and the group break out. The operation would need approval from the Israeli government. Hezbollah also released a video Tuesday showing drone surveillance of what it said were sensitive sites located miles inside Israeli territory, which was perceived as a warning that the militant group has intelligence about where to strike Israel.

Israel and Hezbollah have exchanged tit-for-tat fire since Oct. 7 when the Iran-aligned militia backed attacks by Palestinian movement Hamas that sparked a war in Gaza. While both Hezbollah and Israel have been reluctant to turn hostilities into a bigger conflict, the two sides are increasingly signaling an intent to expand their fight.

The enemies have already exchanged fire deeper and more forcefully into their respective territories in recent weeks. Throughout Tuesday, Israeli warplanes launched strikes against squads from Hezbollahs air force unit that were sending drones destined for Israel, the Israeli military said. Hezbollah on Wednesday announced the deaths of two of its fighters.

The Israeli militarys approval of operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon are part of the efforts to send a message to Hezbollah to scale down their activities and show readiness to move forward to some sort of settlement," said Yossi Kuperwasser, a former head of research for Israeli military intelligence.

Meanwhile, U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein was in the Middle East this week seeking to head off a broader conflict that would complicate President Bidens bid for re-election later this year. Hochstein visited Israel on Monday to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, before traveling to Lebanon Tuesday to meet senior officials.

The situation is serious," Hochstein told reporters Tuesday in Lebanon. We have seen an escalation over the last few weeks, and what President Biden wants to do is to avoid a further escalation to a greater war."

The U.S. diplomatic push comes after an Israeli strike last week in southern Lebanon killed Taleb Sami Abdullah, one of the most senior members of Hezbollah. The militant group responded by firing hundreds of rockets and drones at Israel over three days.

Hezbollah says that its attacks are in support of the Palestinians and that it wont stop until Israel ceases its war in Gaza. Both Hamas and Hezbollah are U.S.-designated terrorist organizations closely aligned with Iran. A fight against Hezbollah would be a far tougher task for Israel, which estimates the Lebanese group has amassed an arsenal of more than 150,000 rockets and missiles that military analysts say could overwhelm Israels antimissile defenses.

In all, the Lebanese militant group has launched more than 5,000 rockets, antitank missiles and explosive drones at Israel since the conflict started, according to the Israeli military. Hezbollah has lost at least 338 fighters, according to a tally based on the groups statements. Some 95 Lebanese civilians have been killed, according to OCHA, the United Nations humanitarian agency, and Lebanese officials.

In Israels north, at least 17 soldiers and nine civilians have been killed because of the hostilities, according to Alma Research and Education Center, a nonprofit research center focusing on the threats on Israels northern border.

The casualties pale in comparison to the war in Gaza. More than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed there since the start of the war, most of them civilians, according to Palestinian health authorities. The figures dont specify how many were combatants. Hamass attacks on Oct. 7 killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli authorities.

Israel over the weekend initiated a humanitarian pause in fighting to help increase the flow of aid into the war-torn enclave. More than 1,000 truckloads of aid were piled up at the Gazan side of an Israeli border crossing a day later, as the United Nations said distribution inside the strip is being complicated by people looting the trucks.

U.S.-promoted talks for a cease-fire in Gaza have largely stalled after Israel and Hamas couldnt agree on whether a truce would be permanent or would allow the Israeli military to later re-engage the militants in the Palestinian enclave.

Part of Hezbollahs goal in increasing attacks on Israel in recent weeks was to force it to agree to a cease-fire that left Hamas intact in Gaza, Kuperwasser said. In that sense, the hostilities on Israels northern border were still a controlled escalation," he added.

Write to Rory Jones at Rory.Jones@wsj.com
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said Wednesday that his country fully supported Russia's invasion of Ukraine, during a high-profile state visit by Moscow's President Vladimir Putin to Pyongyang.

"North Korea expresses full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, as well as territorial integrity," Kim said.

Also Read | How Putin and Kim stand to gain from a rare visit thats troubling the West

Putin has thanked Kim for North Koreas support for his war in Ukraine, part of what he said was a fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

He called the agreement a new fundamental document (that) will form the basis of our ties for the long term," hailing ties that he traced back to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula in the closing moments of World War II, and Moscows support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

Also Read | Russias Vladimir Putin arrives in North Korea for first visit in 24 years

The new treaty signed between North Korea and Russia provides for "mutual assistance" in case either country faces aggression, Putin said following talks in Pyongyang.

"The comprehensive partnership treaty signed today provides, among other things, for mutual assistance in case of aggression against one of the parties to this treaty," Putin was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies.

Notably, North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council sanctions over its weapons program, while Russia also faces sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Also Read | Drones in Ukraine get smarter to dodge Russias jamming signals

Putin's visit to North Korea Putins visit comes amid growing concerns over an arms arrangement in which North Korea provides Russia with badly needed munitions for Moscows war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kims nuclear weapons and missile program.

Before the talks, Kim welcomed Putin with a lavish ceremony in the citys main square, where he introduced key members of the North Korean leadership including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and the leader's powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong.

Also Read | India distances itself from Swiss summit on Ukraine-Russia war
A house collapsed in New York's Syracuse, injuring at least 10 people, said officials. Around 20 persons were inside the building at the time of the tragedy, of which firefighters pulled out some victims from the house on Tuesday. Currently, authorities are searching for those who are still stuck in the debris.

Speaking to media persons, Syracuse Fire Chief Michael Monds said the firefighters responded to multiple calls about an explosion at a two-story residential building at around 4 p.m. They immediately reached the spot and observed many victims already in the front yard, he said.

The injured, including adults and children, were rushed to Upstate University Hospital for medical treatment, said Monds, adding that two of them were in serious condition when they reached the medical institution, AP reported.

Eight of the 10 are on advanced life support, while the other two are on basic life support. Were in a good spot right now. To know there were 13 people inside that have made it out: Thats remarkable," the fire officer said.

The cause of the accident is not known yet. However, Monds said police and fire officials will investigate the cause of the 1920 house collapse while noting that the firefighters encountered downed power lines and a heavy odour of natural gas at the tragedy site.

On the other hand, initial dispatch audio suggested that the collapse could have been triggered by a runaway vehicle crashing into the building's garage, resulting in several injuries.

Carbon Street, the location of the incident, has been cordoned off between Oberst and John Streets. Syracuse Police, Fire Department, and American Medical Response (AMR) are currently engaged in search and rescue operations amid the rubble of the collapsed house, HT reported.

A local resident told CNY Central how the explosion shook surrounding homes and spread ashes across the sidewalk, comparing the scene to a volcanic eruption that impacted the whole block.
Pop star Justin Timberlake was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated in an upscale town east of New York City. He spent the night in jail before being arraigned and subsequently released, said officials on Tuesday.

In an official statement, the prosecutor's office in Suffolk County told AFP, Justin Timberlake was arrested in Sag Harbor for driving while intoxicated.

He was arraigned in Sag Harbor Village Justice Court and released on his own recognizance. Timberlake's next court date would be a virtual appearance on July 26, the statement added.

Known for his hits SexyBack and Cry Me a River, the 43-year-old Timberlake was taken into custody in Sag Harbor, part of the affluent Hamptons community, in the early hours of Tuesday.

A police officer pulled Timberlake shortly after seeing him driving his BMW through a stop sign and failing to stay on the right side of the road, Sag Habor police said in another statement quoted by AFP.

Upon investigation, it was determined that Timberlake was operating his vehicle in an intoxicated condition, said police. Citing court documents, CBS reported that Timberlake's eyes were bloodshot and glassy, and he performed poorly on all standard field sobriety tests.

The singer-actor is currently on tour supporting his latest album. He reportedly told police that he had one martini and was following his friend home. "Timberlake was placed under arrest, processed, and held overnight for morning arraignment," police said.

Timberlake gained fame as a member of the boy band NSYNC before embarking on a successful solo career and transitioning into acting. He has earned 10 Grammy awards and four Emmy awards. He is married to actress Jessica Biel, and they have two sons together.

Recently, the international singer has sold the rights to his songs including hits such as "Cry Me A River" and "Rock Your Body" to Hipgnosis Song Management, the latest pop star to cash in on his body of work in the red-hot market for music streaming.
Heres an AI advancement that should benefit all of us: Its getting easier for builders of AI to warn the world about the harms their algorithms can causefrom spreading misinformation and taking over jobs to hallucinating and providing a new form of surveillance.

But who can would-be whistleblowers turn to? A welcome shift towards better oversight is underway, thanks to changes in compensation policies, renewed momentum to speak out among engineers and the growing clout of a British government-backed safety group.

The financial changes are the most consequential. AI workers suffer from the ultimate rich-world problem, in that they can make 7-8 figures in stock options if they stick it out with the right company for several years, and if they also keep quiet about its problems when they leave.

Get caught speaking out, according to recent reporting by Vox, and they lose the chance to become millionaires. That has kept many of them silent, according to an open letter published this month by 13 former OpenAI and Google DeepMind employees, six of whom have remained anonymous.

OpenAIs response to such complaints has been encouraging. It not only apologized, but said it would free most of its past employees from those non-disparagement requirements. Daniel Kokotajlo, a former OpenAI employee who admirably refused to sign the gag order and stood to lose $1.7 million (the majority of his net worth, as per The New York Times), will now be able to liquidate his shares and get that money, according to his lawyer, Lawrence Lessig.

The heartening development here isnt that already-well-paid AI scientists are getting more money or protecting their lucrative careers, but that a powerful motivator for keeping silent is no more, at least at OpenAI. Lessig, who met with more than half a dozen former OpenAI employees earlier this year to hammer out a series of pledges that AI-building companies should make, wants at least one AI firm to agree to all of them.

Thats probably a tall order. But decoupling non-disparagement agreements from compensation packages is clearly a promising first step, and one that other Big Tech companies, who employ more than 33,000 AI-focused workers today, should follow if they dont have such a policy in place already. Encouragingly, a spokeswoman for OpenAI-rival Anthropic says the company does not have such controversial gag orders in place.

Those companies should do more by making it easier for whistleblowers to sound the alarm. OpenAI has said it has a hotline available to its engineers, but that doesnt mean much when the line only goes to company bosses.

A better setup would be an online portal through which AI engineers can submit concerns to both their bosses and people outside the company who have the technical expertise to evaluate risks. Absent any official AI regulators, who should be that third party? Theres, of course, existing watchdogs like the US Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice, but another option is Britains AI Safety Institute (AISI).

Bankrolled by the UK government, its the worlds only state-backed entity that has managed to secure agreements from eight of the worlds leading tech companies, including Alphabets Google, Microsoft Corp and OpenAI, to safety test their AI models before and after theyre deployed to the public.

That makes Britains AISI the closest equivalent to weapons inspectors in the fast-moving field. So far, it has tested five AI models from several leading firms for national-security risks.

The organization has 30 staff members and is in the process of setting up an office in San Francisco. It pays some senior researchers around 135,000 (about $170,000) a year, according to its latest jobs listings, far less than what a roughly equivalent role at Googles headquarters in Mountain View, California, would pay (over $1 million in total compensation). Even so, the organization has managed to hire former directors of OpenAI and Google DeepMind.

It might seem awkward for Silicon Valley engineers to reach out to an organization overseas, but theres no denying that the algorithms theyre fashioning have global reach. In the short term, the UK acts as a handy mid-point between the US and Europe, or even the US and China, to mediate concerns.

The mechanisms for whistleblowing still have some way to go in AI, but its at least a more viable option for the field than it ever was. That is a cause for celebration and will hopefully generate momentum for others to speak up too. bloomberg
One of the first things the newly elected government announced was its intention to have its ministries and departments put in place a 100-day agenda of action. In this context, it is worth noting that the BJP, in its election manifesto, had promised that we will further strengthen the capacity of statistical institutions to give impetus to data-driven policy making." Here, I outline some measures that can be taken over the next 100 days by the governments statistical agencies towards that goal.

Lets begin with suggestions for the short-term.

Announce a time schedule for the Census: The 2021 Population Census got deferred because of covid and then possibly because of multiple elections for state assemblies and the Parliament. For the moment, major election clusters are behind us. Given the nature of our democratic structure, polls will keep happening.

The long gap since the 2011 Census has created many problems for statistical work, particularly those using Sample Survey data. This is because the frame for all Sample Surveys is drawn from the preceding Census, and using old frames leads to poor quality aggregate estimates.

If the registrar-general were to notify a calendar for Census operations in the next 100 days, we may be able to conduct it by 2026. This would ensure that before the new governments term is complete, we would be in a position to rectify any errors that may have crept in due to obsolete multipliers used in generating survey estimates.

Also read: India needs stronger statistical system for better policymaking

Announce a calendar for revision of long running statistical series: The ministry of statistics and programme implementation (Mospi), particularly the Central Statistics Office, should notify a calendar for the revision of National Accounts, Consumer Price Indices and the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

The Office of the Economic Advisor in the department of industrial policy and promotion (DIPP) should parallelly work on revising the Wholesale Price Index and core sector indices. All these series are currently being run on a 2011-12 base and are overdue for revision.

The basic data for this exercise is already in place, given that Mospi has regularly been conducting the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), recently released annual surveys of unorganized sector enterprises for 2021-22 and 2022-23, as well as the Household Consumption Expenditure Survey for 2022-23, and is about to complete HCES 2023-24.

It should be possible over 100 days to decide on whether the new base year should be 2022-23 or 2023-24, both of which meet the requirements of being normal for establishing a base year. If these are initiated soon, they can be completed by 2026.

Here are my suggestions for the medium-term.

Make better use of the GST database: In addition to the above immediate tasks, its important for the government to initiate a programme of research and institutional development that would permit better use of the large administrative data system it has created over the past decade through various e-governance initiatives. The most useful of these is the rich database generated by the GST system.

As I have argued earlier, analysis of GST data may offer us a better measure for estimating goods and services production than the existing IIP. GST data also opens up the possibility of doing a more comprehensive revision of price indices, because GST returns, at least for manufactured products, capture both the value and quantities of production.

For this exercise, the GST database must be made accessible to researchers. Problems of confidentiality can be addressed by using mechanisms similar to those employed by the Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence and Statistics (DGCIS) when it works with Customs data. Both the DGCIS and Mospi have the inhouse capacity needed for the analytical exercises.

Many of our domestic research and education institutions have the capacity to conduct research. Should the DGCIS and Mospi work more closely with them, it would strengthen Indias research capacity. Converting this research into regular statistical products would require creating institutional capacities, either through establishing a new arrangement, or through strengthening existing ones.

Integrate administrative e-governance data with survey data: In addition to the data gold-mine of GST, virtually every major national scheme, from Ayushman Bharat (health), PM Awas (housing) and Jal Jeevan Mission (drinking water) to Mudra and Udyam (MSMEs) and others, has evolved e-governance platforms to monitor implementation.

These platforms have gathered (and continue to gather) rich data on various socio-economic attributes. They also generate complementary data to those gathered by the NSS, National Family Health Survey and surveys by the Labour Bureau. Making disaggregated data from these e-governance portals accessible to researchers would enable analytical exercises that use both administrative and survey data, which in turn would help improve these programmes.

Eventually, it could also help substitute expensive Sample Surveys with indicators drawn from the administrative database. In order for this potential to be realized, it is necessary to put in place a mechanism for releasing disaggregated administrative data for research use. As above, issues of confidentiality can be addressed with well-established techniques of anonymization and masking.

While much of this has been recommended in various committee reports of the National Statistical Commission, implementing this would require policy oversight at the highest level. A possible vehicle for doing so would be if the monthly Pragati meetings held by the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) also include a module for data integration and utilization.

Interest taken by the PMO is necessary for departments and ministries in our scheme of governance to give this reform exercise its due importance.

These suggestions can be implemented within the existing institutional framework. At most, they would require adaption or strengthening of our existing statistical offices to undertake additional work. I have specifically stayed away from suggestions that would require a major institutional overhaul, partly because many of them require much more detailed analysis and consensus building before they should be undertaken, an issue I may return to in later columns.
A sectors contribution is traditionally assessed through economic metrics. However, in todays complex geopolitical landscape, the significance of port infrastructure transcends these measures. This sector holds strategic importance for Indias economic vitality, geopolitical influence and national security.

To secure Indias future, bridging its port and maritime capabilities gap vis-a-vis China is a geo-strategic imperative. This is why we should embrace corporate nationalism in this sector.

On GDP per capita, India still lags most countries and the world average. With just 4% of Indias working-age population earning over $10,000 annually, we cannot rely on domestic consumption to escape a middle-income trap.

We should pivot towards exports as our primary driver of economic growth, aiming for exports to contribute 30-35% of GDP within the next 5-10 years. We must work on both price and non-price factors impacting export competitiveness, including integration into global value chains through world-class port infrastructure development.

Chinas economic growth was driven by manufacturing, but its export dominance relies heavily on its extensive port infrastructure. Seven of the worlds top ten ports are in China, with no Indian port in the top 25. In 2021, China handled 1,270% more cargo traffic than India, with 95% of its trade passing through ports.

China has made 92 port-related investments across 56 countries, establishing a strong maritime network. Notably, 10 of these investments have naval potential, strategically located in countries around India: Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. As Xi Jinping once said, To get rich, we must first build ports."

India lags other big exporting nations on port infrastructure for trade. Some of the largest cargo ships, like the Ever Alot, have never docked in India despite visiting Sri Lanka, Singapore and Malaysia regularly. The capacity of Indian ports for such mega-ships isnt well established, and the scale of Indias trade and location of ports do not justify their visits.

An estimated 85% of Indias cargo passes through trans-shipment ports in Singapore, Malaysia and Sri Lanka. This exposes us to higher costs and operational risks, undermining export competitiveness. To address this, the government is ramping up port infrastructure and aims to increase merchandise exports to $1 trillion by 2030.

To compete globally, particularly against China, India must prioritize capacity and network enhancements. We need ports capable of handling mega-ships, a growing trend in shipping.

Initiatives like the Vizhinjam port in Kerala and a proposed container trans-shipment terminal in Andaman and Nicobar Islands are welcome steps. These can strengthen our maritime trade and serve geopolitical interests, but their success depends on factors like how advanced their technology is, operational efficiency, workforce skills and the ability to raise capital, all of which Indias private sector is better placed for. Therefore, private sector involvement in port development and management should rise from the current 40-50% to 85-90% over the next 5-10 years.

To counter Chinas aggressive expansion via state-run port operators, Indias national strategy should support private port operators of scale and potential through measures like capital access, tax breaks and a conducive policy environment. As with defence procurement, this policy must favour Indian port operators and support their global expansion plans.

The policy must have sufficient guard-rails to ensure corporate governance and priority access to these facilities for national security. We need at least three major private port operators with global operations, especially along vital shipping routes.

Corporate nationalism involves aligning government and private sector strengths to succeed in critical sectors and is not to be confused with crony capitalism. It also shouldnt be coloured by any disdain for legitimate wealth creators. Unlike crony capitalism, it focuses on using private capital to create national capacity for the countrys benefit.

To the extent national champions get the governments support, it is akin to a nation investing in select athletes for Olympic success. The ethical rationale for corporate nationalism is undergirded by broader considerations that are globally understood.

Countries like the US, UAE, South Korea, Singapore and Germany practise corporate nationalism, fostering global enterprises in strategic sectors like port infrastructure. The South Korean government has historically supported companies like Samsung and Hyundai.

Global port infrastructure firms like DP World of the UAE and PSA of Singapore receive extensive government patronage, while American and European defence-sector majors exemplify the Wests approach to corporate nationalism. Similarly, the rise of Chinese companieseven in the information technology and automobile sectorsreflects Beijings aggressive pursuit of corporate nationalism.

As China prepares to inaugurate its first mega-port in South America, India should prioritize an aggressive expansion plan for its privately-owned homegrown port operators to pursue. Given our strategic rivalry with China, which seeks to outpace us across every domain, the rapid development of port infrastructure and capabilities would be crucial for us to avoid being at a perpetual disadvantage.

These are the authors personal views.
Delhi Water Crisis: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and minister in the Delhi government, Atishi, has threatened to go on an 'indefinite fast' in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the letter, Atishi warned that if Delhi did not get its share of water by June 21, she would go on an 'indefinite fast'.

On Wednesday, while addressing a press conference in the national capital, Atishi said the city is grappling with a water crisis since Haryana is not releasing the capital's share of water. Haryana is governed by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini-led Bharatiya Janata Party government.

"I have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the water crisis requesting him to resolve the issue. If the crisis is not solved within two days, I will go on an indefinite strike from June 21," she said.

At the press conference, Atishi said, "Yesterday, Haryana released 513 MGD of water to Delhi against 613 MGD. One MGD of water is for 28,500 people. This means that water was not released for over 28 lakh people."

Atishi pointed out that she has repeatedly written to the Haryana government to resolve the Delhi water crisis.

According to a report by ANI on Wednesday, residents in several areas of the national capital were seen lining up for water from tankers, highlighting ongoing water scarcity issues exacerbated by intense heat conditions.

In the video footage released by the news agency, people from Kusumpur Pahadi in Vasant Vihar (South-West Delhi) to Geeta Colony (East Delhi) and Okhla (South-East Delhi) were seen queuing with containers and buckets for water from tankers.

Delhi has been battling severe heatwaves and a water crisis. As the demand for electricity increased, the capital city witnessed a massive power outage last week.

Delhi Water Crisis: Congress, BJP protest against AAP However, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva has criticised AAP minister Atishi, alleging that she is resorting to theatrics to divert attention from issues such as water theft and black marketing. Sachdeva has called for the AAP government's dismissal, citing its perceived failure to address these issues effectively.

Atishi is resorting to theatrics to divert attention from theft and black marketing of water. Haryana provided surplus water to Delhi yesterday, and there are official documents to prove it, but she is resorting to drama, he claimed.

"This government should be sacked," Sachdeva said, alleging that the ruling AAP miserably failed to provide water to the people of Delhi.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday, June 19, wrote to the Lok Sabha speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankar, urging them to relocate the statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Bhim Rao Ambedkar, and other national leaders to their original location in the Parliament complex.

Relocate statues of Mahatma Gandhi, BR Ambedkar, and other national leaders to original locations, Mallikarjun Kharge wrote in the letter.

Congress leader Kharge alleged that the statues were removed arbitrarily and "without consultation." Kharge further said the act "violates the basic spirit of our democracy."

Kharge, in his letter, mentioned that there is a Committee for installing portraits and statues of national leaders and MPs in the Parliament House Complex. "However, the committee lamentably has not been reconstituted since 2019. Hence, such decisions made without any proper discussion and deliberation with relevant stakeholders are against the rules and traditions of our Parliament," Kharge wrote in his letter.

Expressing discontent about the relocation of the statues of Mahatama Gandhi and BR Ambedkar, Kharge further wrote, "Incidentally, during my student days in the mid-1960s, I was at the forefront of demanding installation of the statue in the precincts of the Parliament House. Such concerted efforts eventually resulted in installing Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's statue at the place where it was hitherto placed."

I am constrained to state this with anguish that all this has now been brought to a naught in an arbitrary and unilateral manner, the Congress leader added.

Several statues, including those of Mahatma Gandhi, BR Ambedkar, and Chhatrapati Shivaji, have been relocated from their original positions on the Parliament premises to a lawn near the old building.

All the statues, including those of tribal leader Birsa Munda and Maharana Pratap, are now on the lawn between the old Parliament building and the Parliament Library.

This move, described as part of a landscaping exercise by the Lok Sabha secretariat, has stirred controversy and drawn sharp criticism. Many Opposition leaders have expressed dismay over the decision to shift these iconic statues.

Notably, the Mahatma Gandhi statues on the Parliament premises have seen many Opposition protests in the past decade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's governance since 2014. Further, in the last couple of years, several dismissed MPs have also chosen to sit in front of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, who is seated in a meditative position, to voice their protest.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday took a jibe Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray over Hindutva and claimed that he had no right to seek votes in name of his father and Shiv Sena's founder Balasaheb Thackeray.

Addressing party workers on Shiv Sena's 58th foundation day in Mumbai, Shinde said, Where has your Hindutva gone, you have no right to seek votes in Balasaheb Thackerays name.

This comes after Thackeray accused Shinde's ally BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) of abandoning Hindutva.

Also Read | Uddhav Thackeray rules out BJP tie-up, throws down gauntlet to PM Modi

Thackeray had also asked whether the BJP's alliance with regional outfits Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal (United) was organic.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) president then dubbed BJP's Hindutva as "regressive" and described the one professed by his party as "progressive".

Maharashtra Lok Sabha poll results Launching an attack on Thackeray's faction, Shinde had also claimed that the Shiv Sena (UBT) won some seats in the Lok Sabha polls because of Congress vote bank.

"Shiv Sena UBT has won only on Congress' vote bank. They are not following the ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray...," Shinde said.

Also Read | Uddhav Thackeray challenges PM Modi ahead of Maharashtra assembly polls

He likened the Shiv Sena (UBT) poll victory to a "swelling" and added "It comes soon and goes away quickly as well. In the coming elections, it will go away."

Shinde also said that the Shiv Sena needs to strengthen Mahayuti in Maharashtra for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. "I assure you all that we will win more seats in upcoming elections," he added.

Asserting his enduring relevance in Maharashtra politics, Shinde, who became CM in June 2022 after revolting against the leadership of his then-boss Uddhav Thackeray, said he will win more elections, referring to the assembly polls which are due in October.
New Delhi: People will soon be able to combat unethical trade practices by e-commerce platforms on their own with the help of dark pattern identification tools being developed by the consumer affairs ministry, two people aware of the matter said.

The department of consumer affairs (DoCA), in association with the Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University (IIT-BHU), is developing plug-ins and browser extensions, expected to be ready within the first 100 days of the new government.

Dark patterns

Dark patterns, intended to trick people online to take unintended actions such as making purchase decisions, amount to misleading advertisement, unfair trade practice or violation of consumer rights.

This tool will be available on multiple platforms, including Windows, Android, and iOS, and will help consumers identify and avoid fraudulent activities, the first person said.

The plug-in can be downloaded and added to browsers and the plugin will highlight the number of dark patterns used by e-commerce portals through alerts and pop-ups," this person said.

A plug-in is a software add-on that provides extra features or functionality to an existing programme without changing its core structure. In web browsers, plug-ins can add functionalities like ad blocking, password management and enhanced security.

A browser extension is a small software module that adds specific features or functionalities to a web browser, enhancing its capabilities and customizing the browsing experience. Browser extensions are used for ad blocking, password management, privacy protection, customization, productivity tools, and added conveniences like weather updates or news feeds.

The department of consumer affairs had issued guidelines in November 2023 to curb these malpractices, identifying 13 specific dark patterns such as false urgency alerts, subscription traps, bait-and-switch pricing, and persistent nagging tactics.

Queries emailed to spokespersons of the consumer affairs ministry remained unanswered while spokesmen for Amazon, Flipkart, All India Gaming Federation and EaseMyTrip refused to comment on the matter.

Browser extensions and plug-ins are being developed to help consumers identify and understand the dark patterns used by e-commerce platforms," the second person said.

Both persons requested anonymity while speaking with Mint.

A dark pattern is a trick used in website or app design to make users do things they didn't plan to do, like signing up for unwanted subscriptions, buying extra items, or sharing personal information.

The use-case of the plug-in extension tool was shown to senior ministry officials during a recently held meeting and they found it to be highly accurate, the first person said.

The detailed presentation showcased how the tool uses Large Language Models (LLMs), Generative AI, and other advanced models to detect dark patterns on e-commerce platforms and alert users.

"Dark patterns do not serve consumer interests and the regulatory framework discouraging their use should be strengthened. AI can be used to identify violations to strengthen enforcement. Public awareness building on their rights and a strong reporting mechanism will also help in clamping down on dark patterns," said Anand Ramanathan, partner and consumer products and retail sector leader, Deloitte India.

Also Read: Centre launches hackathon to identify ideas to tackle cyber threats

The 13 dark patterns listed by the ministrys guidelines are: false urgency, basket sneaking, confirm shaming, forced action, subscription trap, interface interference, bait and switch, drip pricing, disguised advertisements and nagging, trick wording, Saas billing and rogue malwares.

It will be launched after rigorous testing to ensure consumers can use it without any concerns, the second person said, adding that the project is at the developing stage.

According to a KPMG report, India's e-commerce industry is growing rapidly and is expected to surpass the US to become the world's second-largest e-commerce market by 2034. The industry is projected to reach $111.40 billion by 2025.

The government, organizations, and consumers must work together to reduce the impact of dark patterns. Consumers should know about these unfair marketing practices, their rights, and how to report issues. This will help protect everyone in society," said Manish K Shubhay, partner at The Percept-Law Offices and advocate at the Supreme Court.
Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024: Nationalist Congress Party (SP) president Sharad Pawar on Wednesday expressed confidence that the Maha Vikas Agadhi (MVA) will make a comeback in the crucial Maharashtra legislative assembly elections scheduled to be held later this year. Piggybacking on the MVA's triumph in the Maharashtra Lok Sabha elections, Sharad Pawar said the NCP (SP) would return to power in the Maharashtra Vidhan Sabha elections.

The MVA, which comprises the broken factions of NCP and Shiv Sena (UBT), seemed to have gained the trust of the Maharashtra voter base after going through a tumultuous political phase in the last five years, as was evident in the Lok Sabha elections.

On Wednesday, Sharad Pawar said that once back in power, the NCP would resolve the farmers' issue in Maharashtra. Notably, analysts have attributed the downfall of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena, and the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP in the Lok Sabha polls to an angry farmer voter base.

Sharad Pawar made these remarks while interacting with farmers at Nira Wagaj in Pune district's Baramati.

"Both the governments (at the Centre and state) are not ruled by us. But (state) elections are around the corner. We have seen how work was done in the Lok Sabha polls. If such work is repeated in the state assembly elections, I cannot see how the reins of state government will not come into our hands," Sharad Pawar said.

"All the issues of farmers can be resolved if the power of the state government comes into our hands," he added.

Expressing concern about water pollution in the Nira River of Pune district, Sharad Pawar blamed the sugar factories for river water contamination. Pawar announced plans to initiate discussions with state and central governments to tackle the issue effectively.

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024 Result In the recently held Lok Sabha elections for the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, the Congress won 13 seats, a quantum jump from the solitary seat it won in the state in 2019. The Shiv Sena (UBT) bagged nine and the NCP (SP) clinched eight seats.

In the seat-sharing deal for the general elections, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) had the largest share of seats among the three parties, as it contested 21 seats, followed by the Congress at 17 and the NCP(SP) at 10.
Shiv Sena Foundation Day: Shiv Sena celebrates its foundation day on 19 June. Maharashtra's former chief minister, Udddhav Thackeray, and current Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, rallied to show their strength on this day ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly Polls. The foundation day events are essential as both factions of Shiv Sena look to win voter trust ahead of the crucial Maharashtra Assembly Elections, scheduled for later this year.

While the BJP has pegged 'work' done by Uddhav Thackeray during the Lok Sabha Elections, hinting at possible discord in the Mahayuti alliance that comprises the Eknath Shinde faction of Shiv Sena, the Thackeray clan plans to leave no stone unturned to secure a similar fate in the upcoming state Assembly elections.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray will address the party cadre at Dadar's Shanmukhananda Hall on Wednesday evening. Meanwhile, Shinde Sena is set to organise the foundation day event at Worli NSCI dome.

The leaders fboth thections  Uddhav and Eknath Shindewille  will first visit the party founder Bal Thackeray's memorial at Shivaji Park to pay tributes.

According to a Shinde Sena official, the party is set to kick off a membership drive during its upcoming foundation day celebrations. Chief Minister Shinde will honour newly elected parliamentarians, and strategies for the forthcoming Assembly and civic body elections will be outlined during the event.

According to a Shiv Sena (UBT) functionary, party president Thackeray is scheduled to address workers and legislators at an upcoming event and provide guidance on the party's preparations for the Assembly polls.

Shiv Sena: A brief history The Shiv Sena, established on 19 June 1966 at Mumbais Shivaji Park by Bal Thackeray, celebrates its foundation day annually at Shanmukhanand Hall in Sion, following a longstanding tradition.

In June 2022, Eknath Shinde launched a rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray along with 39 other Sena MLAs and joined hands with the BJP, leading to the collapse of the Uddhav-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government in the state.

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Result In the recently held Lok Sabha elections for the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, the Congress won 13 seats, a quantum jump from the solitary seat it won in the state in 2019. The Shiv Sena (UBT) bagged nine and the NCP (SP) eight.
Abhijit Mukherjee, a two-time Member of Parliament and Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, on Wednesday, June 19, expressed his desire to return to the Congress party three years after his exit. Mukherjee, the son of former President of India the late Pranab Mukherjee, quit the grand old party to join the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC in 2021.

Abhijit Mukherjee has been an MP from the Jangipur Lok Sabha seat. He contested the Jangipur Lok Sabha seat on a Congress ticket and lost in 2019.

Mukherjee said he felt marginalised in the Mallikarjun Kharge-led party and joined the TMC in 2021. However, he was never assigned a ticket after the switch. After joining the TMC, I got no such assignments. Their work culture didn't match with that of the Congress at all, he told ANI.

Mukherjee claimed that Congress leaders had asked him why he was lying low.

"I thought enough is enough. So, after coming back to Delhi, senior (Congress) leaders asked me indirectly why am I lying low. They told me to be active. I sought time from senior high command, maybe I would be able to meet them in a day or two. If they ask me to join immediately, I would do it. I am absolutely free and ready to contribute. If the Congress accepts me, definitely. I am being marginalised currently, but I don't want to stir any controversy," he told the news channel.

I lost the elections in 2019 due to reasons that I know but won't be able to say out loud. The High Command knows it too. For 2.5 years, I carried out whatever assignment was given to me by the Congress. Mukherjee added.

"But they didn't give me enough assignments, whatever may be the reason. I was gradually marginalised by a particular person, a particular group. In the meantime, Mamata Didi called me back as I had sought time from her. I met them, and they offered me to join them. I had urged CM Mamata Banerjee to name a street in the name of my father, and there are a lot of parks in Kolkata. I had urged the CM to name a park in my father's name, but no such action was taken," Mukherjee said.

He further said that in 2021 the number of seats of CPI (M) had reduced to zero in the Vidhan Sabha.

"In Bengal, I did not want to join the CPI(M). I had decided that if the TMC does not give me any place, then I will fight alone. By contesting alone, I may get fewer seats, but I will get more vote per cent," Mukherjee said.

Notably, Pranab Mukherjee had remained a Congress loyalist and leader for decades in his political career. However, relations between the Mukherjee offspring and the Congress turned sour when a posthumous memoir of the late President stirred controversy for remarking on the discipline of Rahul Gandhi as a politician.
Maharashtra Politics: Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday, June 19, took a defiant stance against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led faction of Shiv Sena during the Shiv Sena's 58th foundation day celebrations at Shanmukhananda Hall in Mumbai's Sion.

Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction, has firmly asserted that he would never align with the BJP, the party that attempted to "finish off" his Shiv Sena. His remarks came during the 58th foundation day celebrations of Shiv Sena, putting to rest speculations of a potential alliance with the BJP ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections later this year.

BJP leaders had taken a dig at the INDIA bloc's Lok Sabha election performance in Maharashtra. The saffron party had said that the INDIA bloc partners were mooching off of Uddhav Thackeray's hard work. This remark had triggered speculation that the BJP, after its dismal performance in the Maharashtra Lok Sabha elections, was planning to rope in the other faction of Shiv Sena headed by Thackeray.

The BJP is in alliance with Eknath Shinde-led faction of Shiv Sena in Maharashtra.

Uddhav Thackeray's 'Open Challenge' to PM Modi Uddhav Thackeray reiterated the INDIA bloc's claim, stating, "Narendra Modi-led govt will collapse, we will set up INDIA bloc-led government." He challenged PM Modi to start campaigning for the Maharashtra Assembly elections immediately and fulfil the promises made by Chandrababu Naidu's manifesto in Andhra Pradesh.

"Are Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar pro-Hindutva? I challenge Narendra Modi to go to Andhra Pradesh and say that I will fulfil the (assurances in) Chandrababu's manifesto. Hasn't Chandrababu made promises to the Muslim community? "Hasn't Nitish Kumar given any assurances to the Muslim community in Bihar?" Thackeray said.

Naidu and Kumar are key allies of the NDA and helped the BJP-led alliance reach the majority mark in the Lok Sabha.

BJP's Dismal Lok Sabha Performance The BJP's failure to achieve a simple majority in the Lok Sabha, winning only 240 seats, has evidently boosted the confidence of the INDIA bloc. On Wednesday, during the Shiv Sena foundation day celebration in Mumbai, Uddhav Thackeray accused the BJP of abandoning Hindutva and questioned the party's alliances with regional outfits like the TDP and JDU.

Maharashtra Lok Sabha Elections In Maharashtra, the Congress won 13 seats, the Shiv Sena (UBT) bagged 9, and the NCP (SP) clinched 8 out of the 48 Lok Sabha seats. The seat-sharing deal saw the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) contesting the largest share of 21 seats, followed by the Congress at 17 and the NCP(SP) at 10.

The BJP won only nine seats, down from the 23 the party had bagged in 2019.

The Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena secured seven seats, and Ajit Pawar's NCP managed only one, reducing the NDA's total to 17 out of 48 seats in the state. In 2014, the undivided Sena-BJP alliance had won 43 seats.

Uddhav Thackeray's Message to Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde Uddhav Thackeray slammed Eknath Shinde, whose rebellion in 2022 led to the split of Shiv Sena, questioning his Hindutva credentials and denying him the right to seek votes in Balasaheb Thackeray's name.

Eknath Shinde, however, steered clear of attacking the opposition during his Wednesday's foundation day speech. CM Shinde said, We have to strengthen Mahayuti in Maharashtra for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. I assure you all that we will win more seats in upcoming elections."

In June 2022, Eknath Shinde launched a rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray along with 39 other Sena MLAs and joined hands with the BJP, leading to the collapse of the Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government in the state.
Boeing succeeded in getting NASA astronauts to the International Space Station, following weeks of delays. Returning them to Earth on the same spacecraft is proving another challenge.

Problems with leaks and thrusters emerged after Boeings Starliner vehicle launched this month with the astronauts Barry Wilmore and Sunita Williams on board. Officials from the aerospace company and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration said Tuesday that the astronauts are slated to return June 26.

With the latest postponement, the astronauts would spend about 20 days in space, more than double the roughly eight days originally planned.

Starliner has been pinned down by two main issues: a series of helium leaks in a propulsion system and problems with several thrusters that are used to maneuver the vehicle. NASA and Boeing teams have been studying both issues before they permit Starliner to attempt to leave the station with Wilmore and Williams, re-enter Earths atmosphere and land under parachutes.

Were taking a little bit of extra time to work through what weve seen and make sure we have all the plans in place to bring the crew home," Steve Stich, a NASA program manager, said Tuesday.

The space station has at least four months of reserves for food and other consumable items for astronauts on board, NASA officials have said. Starliner could stay docked at the station for a total of 45 days, though ultimately it aims to stay there for six-month missions, they said.

Extended stays at ISS have happened before. In September, the NASA astronaut Frank Rubio returned to Earth after spending more than a year at the facility, a record-breaking flight for an American. His return was delayed after a micrometeorite poked a hole in his Russian-made return vehicle and Russia sent up another ship.

Starliner is able to ferry crew members to Earth in an emergency situation, Stich said. He added that teams want to analyze Starliner and its technical challenges as much as possible while it is at the station.

The delay is a fresh setback for Boeing, which had hoped to conduct its first astronaut flight years ago. Boeing is under contract with NASA to conduct six more crewed flights to the space station if it secures agency certification for the vehicle.

SpaceX has flown cargo to the space station for years and completed its inaugural astronaut mission for NASA in 2020.

Mike Leinbach, a former launch director for the space shuttle at NASAs Kennedy Space Center, said mission managers wont let Starliner return to Earth with the astronauts if the vehicle could pose any risks to them.

This one has a few more issues than I would have expected," Leinbach, who isnt involved in the Starliner mission, said. We hoped for a clean flight, but we didnt get one, and were dealing with it. Theyll figure this out."

The Starliner crewed flight has pulled off 77 of 87 test objectives so far, Mark Nappi, a Boeing vice president overseeing the Starliner program, said during the briefing.

NASA and Boeing are investigating five helium leaks identified in the vehicles service modulea propulsion system that includes thrusters. One was noted before the flight began.

Starliner needs about seven hours of helium on board to finish the flight, and has about 70 hours remaining.

Five thrusters on Starliner temporarily failed as the vehicle made its final rendezvous with the ISS, but four came back online. Stich said one thruster will be shut off for the remainder of the mission.

Write to Micah Maidenberg at micah.maidenberg@wsj.com
Motorola is all set to introduce its latest flip phone models, the Motorola Razr 50 and Razr 50 Ultra, with a global unveiling scheduled for June 25. These new foldable devices will follow the company's recent flagship release in Europe and India. While the exact date for the India launch remains undisclosed, it is anticipated that these devices will debut in the country by next month, aligning with last years launch schedule for the Razr 40 series.

Pricing leaks (via various media reports) suggest that the Motorola Razr 50 will be priced around EUR 899 (approximately 80,460), while the higher-end Razr 50 Ultra is expected to retail at EUR 1,199 (about 107,310) for the 12GB RAM and 512GB storage variant. However, Indian prices are likely to be lower, mirroring last years trend when the Razr 40 Ultra was introduced at 89,999 and the Razr 40 at 59,999.

The forthcoming Razr 50 Ultra is rumored to feature the new Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, a notable upgrade from its predecessor. Photography enthusiasts can look forward to an enhanced camera setup, with a 50MP primary sensor and a 50MP 2x telephoto lens, compared to the Razr 40 Ultras 12MP main and 13MP ultra-wide lenses. The device is expected to retain the 6.9-inch FHD+ main display and 3.6-inch cover display, with a slight increase in battery capacity to 4,000mAh.

On the other hand, the Razr 50 will reportedly sport a significantly larger 3.63-inch cover display, a marked improvement from the Razr 40s 1.5-inch screen, enhancing usability for quick interactions. The main display is likely to remain a 6.9-inch FHD+ panel, while the device might come equipped with a 4,200mAh battery. Speculation suggests it will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300X chipset, though this is yet to be confirmed.

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EU nature restoration laws have the potential to destabilise food security and threaten the livelihood of many Longford farmers a local agri representative has said.

This will have a massive effect in Longford, Ballinalee man John Sheridan, who is chair of Longford IFA branch, said of the move by member state environment ministers to approve the policy.

Nationally the IFA says the Irish government was wrong to support the introduction of this law without the completion of an impact assessment or a dedicated budget to support its implementation.

European Union countries approved the policy aimed at restoring damaged nature on Monday.

PICTURES | Night of style and fond memories as dedication of retiring Longford teachers is recognised

The nature restoration law requires member states to introduce measures restoring nature on a fifth of their land and sea by 2030.

It's a far reaching EU environmental policy that received the backing of member state's environment ministers at a meeting in Luxembourg earlier this week.

The policy aims to reverse the decline of Europe's natural habitats - 81% of which are classed as being in poor health - and includes specific targets, for example to restore peat lands so they can absorb CO2 emissions.

Also read: Longford and Cavan communities mourn sudden passing of greatly loved bus driver

The Longford IFA chair says uncertainty surrounds the implementation of the laws: People have no understanding of how this will affect their lives. Anyone farming on heavy, peaty soil will be in trouble. This will impact a lot of farmers in Longford.

Mr Sheridan explained what it means to farmers: This goes back to Land Commission times. Land was designated as peaty soil back then. There are farmers who own land with that designation who may face having to re-wet it.

PICTURES | Pride, colour and samba beats at Longford's inaugural Pride Parade

Meanwhile, following adoption of the Nature Restoration Law (NRL) by the European Council, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD has reiterated his assurance to farmers that all nature restoration measures will be voluntary.

Also read: Longford priest 'truly overwhelmed by support and generosity' as he celebrates Golden Jubilee of ordination

The Minister said: This Government, and I through my position on the AgriFish Council, secured additional flexibilities in the legal text of the NRL to both support farmers and to recognise our specific Irish circumstances. As a result of this intervention, the targets for restoration and rewetting of drained organic soils have been reduced from the original proposal. This means the total area for restoration now targets 50% of such area by 2050, rather than 70% as originally proposed, with a third to be rewetted, rather than a half. In addition, other flexibilities have been secured including an emergency break provision to suspend implementation in agriculture in the event of circumstances with severe consequences on food security.".

Commenting on the targets set under the NRL, the Minister clarified that:

The legal obligation to achieve NRL targets is on the Member States not individual landowners. NRL targets for rewetting of drained organic soils are proportional to the national figure and these national figures were just recently recalculated by the EPA. This change, that revises the figure downwards from 332,900ha to 141,000ha, accounts for drained organic soils that have rewetted naturally. With the existing national commitments to rewet 33,000ha of Bord na Mona lands, these lands are sufficient to deliver the NRL rewetting targets without recourse to privately owned land to 2050. This fact is a strong reassurance to farmers that there will be no obligatory requirement on farmers to rewet land due to the NRL.

Also read: Big wedding celebrations for Longford families in Wicklow and Leitrim ceremonies

The Minister continued: I also want to be very clear that restoration measures will not negatively impact any existing CAP commitment, or any other scheme or incentive delivered by my Department. This was confirmed by Commissioner Sinkevicius. Any restoration measures that landowners choose to participate in will be voluntary, well incentivised, and resourced.

Ireland has already announced a 3.15 billion Climate and Nature Fund to support implementation. Farmers are committed to biodiversity and it is only right that they are provided with very strong funding separate to CAP to ensure that they are rewarded for any actions that they might voluntarily contribute to.

PICTURES | Glittering gala dinner as Longford Town FC proudly celebrate centenary
Schools have not been open enough about the issue of bullying, the Minister of Education has said, as she unveiled a raft of new plans designed to tackle the issue.

Norma Foley said the department and schools needed to work harder when a child was unhappy and not included.

Among new rules published on Wednesday, schools will be obliged to record all incidents of bullying, which will be included in an anonymised national database and will form part of an annual report.

The Inspectorate of the Department of Education publishes Perspectives on Bullying Behaviour 2023, summarising insights from students, parents, teachers and principals.  Find out more  https://t.co/UiBYaUl6bZ#education #PressRelease pic.twitter.com/kS2KfnTNlo  Department of Education (@Education_Ire) June 19, 2024

The whole school community, including students, parents, teachers, caretakers, as well as cleaners and boards of management, will be required to ensure that bullying is not tolerated in schools.

Schools will tackle hidden spaces in hallways, staircases and in the playground where there is a greater risk of bullying.

The new rules will also see schools, particularly post-primary, becoming a more telling environment.

Schools will be required to review cases of bulling with students and their parents after 20 days to see if the bullying has stopped.

The new rules form part of the bi cinealta (be kind) initiative which aims to stamp out bullying in schools.

Speaking at its launch on Wednesday, Ms Foley said: I want to acknowledge this for too long, I feel, we have not been open enough about this issue within schools.

Im going to be very honest and say, as a teacher myself, were very, very proud when all our children are happy and included.

But we need to work harder when a child is not happy and a child is more vulnerable and not included.

We havent wanted to have this discussion, I believe, out there in the open. Parents have it all the time.

Minister @NormaFoleyTD1 announces publication of the Bi Cinealta Procedures to Prevent and Address Bullying Behaviour for Primary and Post-Primary Schools. Press release  https://t.co/rVN65SNYSO pic.twitter.com/XJeSzF9GdM  Department of Education (@Education_Ire) June 19, 2024

I really do believe parents want us to have this open discussion. We want the culture within the school to be a culture of openness to speak, to be heard, and for proactive action to be taken.

The Fianna Fail minister added: I know that the vast, vast majority of our students that come to school are happy and contented and feel that theyre included.

But I also know for some students, thats not the reality. What were actually doing is were launching the procedures to prevent and address bullying behaviour in our primary and our post-primary and indeed, in our specialist schools.

She said that parents greatest hope is that their child will thrive and be happy in school, while their greatest fear is their child becoming a victim of bullying.

Everyone will be consulted in the policy, the formulation of the policy, thats the staff, the students, the boards of management, the entire school community, and that policy will be reviewed every single year, the minister added.

She said that students in post-primary schools would be encouraged to be more open about what was happening to them.

Perhaps in the primary school theres a better culture of to tell, to share the burden, to share the unhappiness as it were, Ms Foley added.

But within the guidelines we have here, we are cultivating that culture right across all of our schools  tell more, be open.

So that theres a clear culture in the school that if youre not happy, if theres something happening that youre not happy about, that you would tell more about it.

When you share, it lessens the burden.
Eamon Ryans resignation as Green Party leader will not destabilise the coalition Government nor change the timing of the next general election, the Taoiseach and Tanaiste have said.

The Environment Ministers announcement that he will step down as party has prompted speculation of an early general election.

However, Simon Harris, the Taoiseach, moved to end the speculation, saying Mr Ryans decision does not alter plans to have the Government serve its full term.

Mr Ryan made the shock announcement on Tuesday, but will remain in place until his party elects his successor.

Minister for Children Roderic OGorman and Minister of State Pippa Hackett announced their plans to run in the leadership contest.

Speaking in Clones, Co Monaghan, Mr Harris described his Government partner as a politician of real substance that has made a lasting impact in Ireland.

I am conscious that he intends to continue to serve until the next general election. I look forward to working with him, Mr Harris added.

Obviously over the next few weeks, its a matter for the Green Party to chose who their next leader is, and I wish them well with that process.

From a Government point of view, the Government continues. There is a programme for government, its between three parties, not any individual.

Its a programme that was hard negotiated over a long period of time. My commitment as Taoiseach and leader of Fine Gael, I believe the commitment of all parties in Government now is to keep getting on with the peoples business.

I dont think it in any way alters the thinking on the timing of the next general election.

Micheal Martin, the Tanaiste, took a similar stance on the future of the current Government, saying it will go full term.

He made the comments as he attended the completion of phase two of the restoration of the Ulster Canal.

The restoration of the disused water link is a flagship north-south infrastructure project.

Mr Martin said: In terms of the Government and its cohesion, one of the reasons we are here is to reflect.

Today is a manifestation of the cohesion and the capacity of this Government to deliver on the programme for government and the shared island initiative is one of those initiatives and it has delivered this wonderful facility here.

The Government is about the programme for government. Eamon Ryans entitled to make a decision to retire as leader of the Green Party, and ultimately not contest the next general election.

Yesterday, I paid tribute to Eamons contribution to Irish public life and, in particular, he has fundamental beliefs which he has stood by over many decades and has made a lasting impact.

This Government again has been very strong in terms of addressing the climate issues, the biodiversity issues in a way that I would argue previous governments have not been able to do and weve had resources to be able to do a lot in terms of retrofitting and public transport.

The remaining part of the Government is we go full term.

Referring to former Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkars resignation from the party in April, Mr Martin said it hasnt destabilised the Government.
Senator Pippa Hackett has announced her candidacy for leader of the Green Party in the wake of Eamon Ryan's resignation.

A two-party race is now underway as TD and Minister for Children and Integration Roderic O'Gorman also announced his bid to be the new leader of the Green Party this Wednesday morning, June 19.

It follows Minister Ryan's shock announcement on Tuesday that he is stepping down as leader, and will not be contesting the next general election.

Senator Hackett, who also is a Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, declared her intention to run on Newstalk's The Hard Shoulder this Wednesday evening.

"I am delighted to say that I am putting my name forward. I can be that fresh start that our party needs."

"I'm a sheep farmer, I'm also a mother, I've also been a cabinet minister for the past four years," she explained.

"The party really has never had a non-Dublin leader. We've never had a woman lead the party and I believe my different perspective and certainly my different life experiences can make the Green Party relevant and relatable inside and outside of Dublin."

The Laois/Offaly senator has been already backed by Minister for State Ossian Smyth and Green Senator Pauline OReilly, who enrsed her Seanad colleague on Virgin Medias Ireland AM show saying it is important for the party to broaden its appeal outside Dublin.

Minister for State and Dublin TD Joe O'Brien had also been tipped to run for leader, but he has since announced he will not be running, backing Minister O'Gorman's bid instead.

In his statement announcing his bid, Mr O'Gorman cited his experience in eight elections as "councillor, TD and minister", and promised party members he would commit to "deliver policies that make a positive impact in peoples lives", a united party", and "a leadership that always listens, always engages, and values the hard work and dedication of every constituency group."

This all follows from the shock announcement in front of the Dail yesterday afternoon from Eamon Ryan, who said he was "stepping down to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders."

This was followed by a further shock announcement from the Greens deputy leader, and Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin saying that she too would "step back" from her role.

Under the Green Party constituition, any party member can contest the leadership if they have the support of 50 other party members, meaning in theory (but unlikely) the new party leader could be someone not serving in the Oireachtas.

Some 4,000 members of the Green Party will be eligible to vote for their new party leader when the election takes place in the coming weeks.
Syosset Man Sentenced to Up to 21 Years in Prison for 2023 DWI Crash that Killed Couple

Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: June 19 2024

Sotirios Spanos was twice the legal limit for alcohol and speeding when he struck and killed Ismenia and Odalis Urena.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Syosset man was sentenced today to seven to 21 years in prison for a high-speed drunken crash in Laurel Hollow in August 2023 that killed a young, married couple.

Sotirios Spanos, 33, pleaded guilty on April 23, 2024, before Judge Howard Sturim to Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (a B felony); two counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree (a C felony); two counts of Assault in the Second Degree (a D violent felony); and Driving While Intoxicated (an unclassified misdemeanor).

The defendant was sentenced today to seven to 21 years in prison.

Ismenia and Odalis Urena were a hard-working, successful couple, who had just enjoyed a well-deserved date night and were heading home to their two daughters. They tragically crossed this reckless defendants path as he drunkenly hurtled along Northern Boulevard at 100 miles per hour, veered into oncoming traffic and struck the Urenas vehicle head-on, said DA Donnelly. Sotirios Spanos only began to brake a second and a half before impact. He had been drinking for several hours before he made the decision to drive that cost the Urenas their lives. This crash was the last in an extraordinarily deadly nine-day period on our roadways last August. Each collision caused by drivers who were either drunk or high and driving recklessly. Our hearts are with the Urenas young daughters, family, and many friends as they continue to grieve this senseless tragedy.

DA Donnelly said that, on August 12, 2023, at approximately 12:31 a.m., Odalis and Ismenia Urena, both 37, were traveling in a convertible heading westbound on Northern Boulevard approaching Moores Hill Road in Laurel Hollow.

The defendant was traveling in a 2023 Acura MDX eastbound on Northern Boulevard at a high rate of speed and while intoxicated. At that time Spanos crossed into oncoming traffic, struck the front passenger side of the Urenas vehicle head-on, and drove over the vehicle.

According to the event data recorder inside the Acura, the defendant was driving approximately 100 miles per hour only 2.5 seconds before the collision. The defendant was traveling at nearly 85 miles per hour at impact.

Ismenia Urena was pronounced dead at the scene. Odalis Urena was taken to Huntington Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 1:32 a.m.

The defendant was twice the legal limit for alcohol more than three hours after the collision.

Spanos was arrested by members of the Oyster Bay Cove Police Department and Nassau County Police Departments Homicide Squad on August 12, 2023.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: June 19 2024

Experience Local and Foreign Film Screenings, Celebrity Appearances, Informative Panels, A Star-Studded Awards Ceremony and Q & As with Top Filmmakers From Around The World.

The Long Island International Film Expo (LIIFE) is proud to announce the full schedule of screenings and events for the 27th Anniversary presentation of the festival, happening from July 9th - July 14th at the historic Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave in Bellmore.

LIIFE is proud to feature over 120 films this year, including 19 World Premieres, 5 US Premieres, 28 New York Premieres and 50 Long Island Premieres! Plus, there are also 32 Female Directors.

Full Schedule and Tickets for films and events on sale at www.LIIFE2024.EVENTIVE.ORG.

Our Pre-Fest feature on Tuesday night at 7pm is the NY Premiere of The Strangers Case, a film currently creating international conversation, where tragedy strikes a Syrian family in Aleppo, starting a chain reaction of events involving five different families in four different countries.

There will be a press conference on Wed. July 10th at 3pm at the Bellmore Movies with Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Actor Lukas Hassell (The Blacklist) and others in attendance.

Then, the Wednesday Opening night film is the Long Island Premiere of Colibri, by Juanpedro David Salazar and Francisco Salazar originally from East Meadow, which tells the story of a young Colombian couple who are faced with a major change in their lives, where each one will go on a personal journey to right the wrongs of the past in order to build a stronger future.

Special screenings of note throughout the week include: the NY Premiere of Child Machine a fun Sci Fi/Comedy feature that is showing on Thursday night, and the World Premiere of thriller Lady Of The Lake about our notorious local lake from native Ronkonkomas own Maria Capp, starring Seth Gilliam (The Walking Dead), Nia Sioux and Emery Kelly, which screens on Friday night - right before the Scared For Your LIIFE block that includes Screamwalkers, alumni Sean Quincy King's unique shot-on-video 90s-styled horror feature. You also shouldnt miss the World Premiere of romantic comedy Royal Runaways from Long Island local Candace (Candy) Cain and the NY Premiere of Hidden Flora, a coming of age queer trans-produced romantic dramedy from Writer/Director Ryan Rox, both showing on Saturday. Saturday at 8pm is also Super Mega Trivia Slam trivia in the Filmmakers Lounge hosted by Steve Strangio with tons of prizes, including a prize pack from Smodcastle Cinemas with a T-shirt, a signed photo from Kevin Smith, and more.

Plus, we have a short doc on Long Island based NYS Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg entitled Harvey: The Voice for The Voiceless.

Additionally on Saturday night, the 4th Annual Midnight Madness block is back, presented by Vinegar Syndrome. This annual block features a bevy of unclassifiable fringe and genre films that make you say "What did I just see..?!" Everyone in attendance will receive a custom Midnight Madness 2024 button, and at the end of the block, a one-of-a-kind handmade Midnight Madness award will be presented to one of the films. Reign Energy drinks are sponsoring the festival providing soft drinks for festival week, as well.

Finally, on Sunday July 14th at 1:30pm, the Closing day feature will be the Long Island Premiere of Scrap starring Anthony Rapp and Vivian Kerr, who is making her directorial debut and will be appearing on local media outlets to promote the film and festival earlier in the week. Then, everything culminates at 5:00pm that night, when you are invited to please join us for LIIFE Closing Awards Ceremony hosted by Kevin Brown (dotcom from NBCs 30 Rock).

Panels include: Directors Audition panel (July 10 - 12 noon - 3 PM), a Filmmakers Breakfast panel (Saturday, July 13 at 11 AM) sponsored by the Bellmore Moves & Showplace, the DP Expo (Friday 4-8pm) an open-room networking event where local cinematographers bring some of their camera equipment to display and discuss their methods and techniques, answer any technical questions, discuss their rates, and expand each other's network and many more!

Festivals of the past have included such luminaries as the late Danny Aiello and Ed Asner, Blue Bloods Robert Clohessy and Abigail Hawk, Ralph Macchio, John Amos, Daniel Baldwin, Ally Sheedy, Catherine Curtin, Chad Coleman, Steve Buscemi, Ed Burns, Ilene Kristen, and so many more.

LIIFE has become a summer playground for filmmakers; with local and international film screenings, celebrity appearances, entertaining and informative panels, a star-studded awards ceremony, and networking galore. LIIFE is presented by the Long Island Film/TV Foundation (LIFTF) and sponsored by the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency, Gold Coast Studios, and the County of Nassau.

For more information on LIIFE please visit: www.LongIslandFilm.com.

Submissions for Scared for Your LIIFE, LIIFE's sister horror film festival are open at https://filmfreeway.com/ScaredforyourLiife.
Freeport Man Sentenced to Up to 18 Years in Prison for Drunken Crash that Killed Three Family Members

Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: June 19 2024

Dante Lennon was speeding and intoxicated when he crashed into a Lincoln Town Car carrying a family leaving a Sweet Sixteen party.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Freeport man was sentenced today to six to 18 years in prison for killing three family members and injuring three others during a drunken high-speed crash in May 2022 in New Hyde Park.

Dante Lennon, 23, pleaded guilty March 5, 2024, before Judge Tammy Robbins to Aggravated Vehicular Homicide (a B felony); three counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree (a C felony); three counts of Assault in the Second Degree (a D felony); three counts of Assault in the Third Degree (an A misdemeanor); and Driving While Intoxicated (an Unclassified misdemeanor).

The defendant was sentenced today to six to 18 years in prison. The NCDA recommended a sentence of seven to 21 years in prison.

Marlene Luu and Hoa Ho were friends from childhood, loving mothers who were cornerstones of their families. Tu Nguyen was a wife and mother to a young child. They were tragically taken from their loved ones when Dante Lennon sped down Jericho Turnpike drunk and slammed into their Town Car killing them and injuring three other passengers, said DA Donnelly. A sweet sixteen party  an exciting milestone marked by family and friends  became a nightmare for these families, who continue to struggle with the pain, grief, and loss of these beloved women. We continue to keep Marlene, Hoa, and Tu in our thoughts as this defendant is sentenced.

DA Donnelly said that on May 21, 2022, at approximately 11:08 p.m., the defendant was driving a Mercedes Benz at a high rate of speed, approximately twice the 35-mile-per-hour speed limit, and while intoxicated on Jericho Turnpike in New Hyde Park.

The defendant was driving eastbound when he broadsided a Lincoln Town Car and rear-ended a parked Ram pickup truck. The force of the impact killed Marlene Luu, 66; Hoa Ho, 68; and Tu Nguyen, 41. The crash also injured three men in the car, ages 72, 42, and 67.

The occupants of the car, all of whom were relatives, were leaving a Sweet 16 party at the Inn in New Hyde Park.

The defendant was arrested by members of the Nassau County Police Department at the scene.
Banner image of Khaled Mohammad Salah Din Zaydans recent article

In the language of numbers, we can see the magnitude of the huge losses that the Mujahideen inflicted on Americathanks to Allah.  Khaled Mohammad Salah Din Zaydan.

These words, penned by the late Khaled Mohammad Salah Din Zaydan, the son of al-Qaeda leader Sayf al-Adl, and published in the latest issue of al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsulas magazine Sada al-Malahem, resonate with a stark reminder of al-Qaedas unwavering resolve.

From regional conflicts like the Gaza War to operational updates from Shabaab in Somalia, al-Qaeda not only declares victory over America but also showcases a strategy skillfully adapting to the global geopolitical landscape. While Zaydans voice has been stilled with his recent alleged death in Yemen, his message continues to articulate al-Qaedas strategic visions and its perceived victories in a conflict it declares far from over.

The article penned by Zaydan describes one story: Al-Qaeda believes it is not only surviving but thriving.

Zaydans narrative thus reverberates with al-Qaedas foundational principles, portraying the struggle as eternal: a battle between truth and falsehood destined to continue until the hour of Judgment. This eschatological view serves as both a rallying cry and a strategic tool, recruiting and radicalizing followers under the banner of divine victory in what they frame as a historical inevitability.

Zaydan then asserts, the victory is because of God, and the fruits of your patience and steadfastness the upcoming conquest will be written in your bloodGod willing.

He contrasts this divine mission with historical grievances, where periods of non-Islamic rule caused widespread suffering, advocating for Islamic governance as not just preferable but divinely ordained. This portrayal galvanizes support by depicting Muslims as perennial victims of Western dominance.

Zaydan turns to marks significant milestones in reducing American global influence, stating, before 9/11 and after the Soviets defeat America has assumed world sovereignty here I am speaking in past tense. He also identifies the September 11 attacks as a turning point, heralding the end of the American era  a strategic success demoralizing foes while inspiring adherents.

At the heart of his argument lies the economic toll of al-Qaedas campaigns. He further notes, American public debt stood at 3.4 trillion dollars before the 9/11 attacks today, it exceeds 33 trillion dollars!

By spotlighting the financial strainssuch as the surge in U.S. national debt and the costs of prolonged warsal-Qaeda depicts a weakening superpower, supposedly buckling under the weight of its military overreach.

The war in Afghanistan has ended, however, America is still paying its cost and will continue, Zaydan notes, illustrating the effectiveness of al-Qaedas prolonged war strategy. He then underscores the psychological victories through sustained conflict, highlighting the enduring costs of wars and American security measures as signs of U.S. vulnerability and overextension.

Moreover, Zaydan positions al-Qaeda as a central figure in the global struggle against Western influence, aiming to inspire and coordinate jihad across various geographies.

He ultimately concludes the article with a potent call to arms, urging followers to persist until they secure ultimate victorygovernance by divine law. This commitment underscores al-Qaedas goal to establish a widespread Islamic caliphate with significant global influence.

Al-Qaedas continued, but largely ignored threat

The recent article by Zaydan ultimately outlines how al-Qaeda currently sees itself and how it seeks to continue its decades-long jihad.

As al-Qaeda under al-Adls leadership continues to articulate a vision of victory and resilience through a sophisticated blend of ideological warfare and strategic propaganda, Washington should heed this not as mere rhetoric but as a clarion call to recalibrate our counter-terrorism strategies.

If the U.S. government continues to dismiss al-Qaedas narratives as the last throes of a dying movement, it risks ignoring the evolution of a threat that thrives on being underestimated. Al-Qaedas portrayal of itself as a phoenix rising from the ashes of Afghanistans battlefields should disturb us allnot only because it claims to weaken a superpower but because it aims to reshape global politics.

Let this be a wake-up call: al-Qaedas narrative of triumph could spell a dangerous new chapter in global terrorism unless the U.S. acts decisively. The battle for hearts and minds is not just about countering narratives; its about offering a compelling alternative that diminishes the allure of extremist ideologies. The time to bolster defenses and rethink strategies is now, before the next narrative of victory is written not in words, but in blood.

Sara Harmouch is the founder and CEO of H9 Defense and a doctoral candidate at American Universitys School of Public Affairs.
Lieutenant General Herzi HaLevi visits northern Israel on June 19. (IDF photo)

Israeli-Hezbollah tensions increased on June 18 and June 19 as Hezbollah heightened its rhetoric warning of war. Israeli defense officials traveled to northern Israel for an assessment and key discussions about the situation.

The Iranian-backed Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah released drone footage on June 18 that was taken over the coast of Israel. The footage depicted several sites along the coast, including an area housing Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, one of Israels largest defense companies, and the port of Haifa, home to an Israeli naval base. The Hezbollah footage, which was edited and marked with locations by Hezbollah, claimed to show locations of air defense systems and other sites within the Rafael property.

On June 19, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah gave a speech in which he threatened Cyprus against letting Israel use its airbases. Opening Cypriot airports and bases to the Israeli enemy to target Lebanon would mean that the Cypriot government is part of the war, and the resistance will deal with it as part of the war, Nasrallah said.

Nasrallahs speech came a week after the IDF killed Sami Taleb Abdullah, the commander of Hezbollahs Nasr unit, in an airstrike. Hezbollah has fired more than 5,000 rockets, missiles, and drones at Israel since Hezbollah chose to support Hamas after the latter groups October 7 attack on Israel. Hezbollah increased its attacks in May and June, especially the use of precision kamikaze drone attacks.

After the killing of Abdullah, Hezbollah greatly increased its attacks, firing at least 215 projectiles at Israel. There was a lull as US envoy Amos Hochstein visited Israel on June 17, but the attacks resumed after Hochstein left the country.

Now, Israel and Hezbollah are upping the rhetoric about a possible war.

Nasrallah boasts today about filming the ports of Haifa, operated by international companies from China and India, and threatens to attack them, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said on June 18. We are very close to the moment of decision to change the rules against Hezbollah and Lebanon. In an all-out war, Hezbollah will be destroyed, and Lebanon will be severely hit.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, and the head of the Israeli Air Force, Major General Tomer Bar, met on June 19 about the situation in the north. They convened a discussion and assessment with the head of Israels Northern Command, Major General Ori Gordin. The head of Israels Home Front Command, Major General Rafi Milo, was also present.

In addition, Halevi, Bar, and Brigadier General Gilad Biran, the head of Israels air defenses, visited an air defense battery and spoke with soldiers manning the site. Our test is to see that today we defend, tomorrow we win, and the day after tomorrow we return the residents to a much safer reality, and with them, we also build and restore and make this beautiful area stronger than it was before the war, Halevi said.

The northern meetings came a day after Gordin approved operational plans and held a joint situational assessment in the Northern Command.

As part of the situational assessment, operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved and validated, and decisions were taken on the continuation of increasing the readiness of troops in the field, the IDF said on June 18. The feverish pace of the meetings illustrates the rising concerns in Israel about a further escalation in the north.

On June 19, sirens sounded throughout Israeli communities in Galilee, beginning in the morning and continuing throughout the day. The first alarms at 7:34 am were due to a drone threat, and the UAV fell near the northern Israeli border community of Metula. It was not clear if it was shot down by Israeli air defenses.

Some alarms were false, however. At least eighteen communities, from the city of Kiryat Shmona in the Huleh Valley to the community of Shlomi near the Mediterranean, were affected by the warnings. Fifteen rockets were fired at Kiryat Shmona, and Israel responded with artillery fire directed at the source of the attack.

The IDF also carried out overnight airstrikes in Lebanon between June 18 and June 19. Warplanes struck a Hezbollah storage facility near Yaroun and a launch post in the area of Ayta ash Shab. Ayta ash Shab has been a frequent IDF target due to Hezbollahs presence in the village, which is very close to the Israeli border.

Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and author of The October 7 War: Israel's Battle for Security in Gaza (2024).
Israeli Navy ships escort the new INS Komemiyut (far right) as she arrives off the coast of Israel. (IDF image)

The Israeli Navy received a new ship on June 16 with the arrival of the INS Komemiyut. It is the second of two new landing craft, known as logistics support vessels (LSV), that Israel has obtained in the last year. The Israeli Navy took delivery of the first of these new ships, the INS Nahshon, at the Pascagoula Shipyard in Mississippi in September 2023.

The Komemiyuts arrival in Israel was greeted with a formation of five ships, including the Nahshon. The LSV has finished its voyage from the port of Pascagoula in the United States and docked at the Israeli Navy Base in Haifa, the IDF stated on X. The vessels entrance to the State of Israels territorial waters was accompanied by Israeli Navy vessels in a missing formation, this in memory of the fallen soldiers from the Swords of Iron war.

The two new logistics support vessels bolster the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) at a critical time, as the Israeli Navy has been called upon to conduct numerous operations off the coast of Gaza and in the Red Sea during the current war.

Vice Admiral David Saar Salama, the commander in chief of the Israeli Navy, said that the new ship would lead to future actions that will strengthen the cooperation between the IDF branches, expand the range of military operations, and maintain the security of the State of Israel. He also highlighted the unique time during which the ship arrived.

Today, while IDF soldiers conducted intense operations in various arenas, the Israeli Navy received a vessel with strategic importance to the State of Israel. During these historic moments, we salute our brothers in arms who fell while fulfilling their primary mission of maintaining the security of the State of Israel.

When the Israeli Navy first took command of the Nahshon in 2023, the IDF stated, A landing craft is a powerful combat vessel, which enables sailing to distant arenas. Its length is approximately 95 meters, its width is approximately 20 meters and its displacement exceeds 2500 tons.

The vessels are similar to the United States Frank S. Besson-class of LSVs, which played a key role in US Central Command operations in the Middle East for many years. Recently, the US Army sent the USAV General Frank S. Besson, Jr (LSV-1) back to the region to support the US militarys floating pier project off the coast of Gaza.

The IDF states that the goal of the two new Israeli vessels is to adapt Israels navy for a modern multi-arena battlefield. Among other things, the landing crafts will serve as a logistical axis for transporting equipment as well as the soldiers in near and far areas. The ships play a role in expanding the possibilities for joint operations with Israels army, air force, and various special forces.

The arrival of the Komemiyut provides the Israeli Navy more flexibility at sea. Each of the ships can transport a company of tanks, as well as significant equipment and personnel. Israel generally does not conduct large-scale maritime or amphibious operations, although it did conduct raids of this nature in Lebanon in the 1960s and 1970s.

Israel ordered the new landing craft in 2019. These vessels are part of a larger expansion and modernization of the Israeli Navy that began in 2015 when Israel ordered four new Saar 6-class corvettes built in Germany. The first of these ships, the INS Magen, arrived in December 2020, while the last arrived in September 2021.

The new corvettes were first used in conflict off the coast of Gaza in October 2023. In April 2024, one of the new Saar 6 corvettes employed the naval version of the Iron Dome air defense system, C-Dome, to down a drone threat for the first time in the Red Sea.



The IDF has stated that the new LSVs will be operational in 2024 but has not said if this is already the case.

Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and author of The October 7 War: Israel's Battle for Security in Gaza (2024).
On June 13, representatives from two Turkish charities met with Salam Hanafi, the Talibans deputy prime minister, in Afghanistan. Mehmet Ubeyd Kosger, representing the Hayrat Foundation, accompanied Ali Senef of the Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH).

The two organizations provide aid to Afghanistan, assistance which became more vital after the abrupt US departure from Kabul in 2021, and Turkey is the only NATO country with a staffed embassy in the country.

The meeting represents renewed economic and investment interest by Turkish entities in Afghanistan. Following the US withdrawal, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was keen to secure operating rights for Kabuls Hamid Karzai International Airport. However, the airport deal never materialized after lengthy negotiations between the Taliban and their Turkish counterparts that lasted into 2022.

Some analysts have speculated that Turkeys motivation to gain a larger presence in Afghanistan is linked to its broader regional goals. These aims included Turkeys desire to play a role in Afghanistans reconstruction and deepen its religious and cultural roots in Central Asia.

However, there are worries about less-publicized and unofficial interactions between the two countries. Turkey is one of the biggest transit routes for illegal drugs, primarily heroin and methamphetamine, between Europe and Afghanistan. The Taliban remains heavily involved in the European narcotics trade despite the groups claim it has outlawed drug activities.

Mullah Naim Barich, the former shadow governor of Helmand province and an influential Taliban leader, was listed by the US State Department as a Foreign Narcotics Kingpin for supporting heroin and opium smuggling in Iran and Afghanistan. Barich currently serves as the Talibans governor of Nangarhar province, a major narcotics production and smuggling hub.

Both IHH and Hayrat are Islamist aid organizations with close ties to Erdogan. IHHs reputation is particularly notable, as it is a member of the Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated Union of Good umbrella organization, which the US Treasury Department sanctioned for its radical ties in 2008.

Israel maintains that IHH has been providing material support to terrorist organizations like Hamas and has urged the US to designate the entity as a supporter of terrorism. IHH is also behind a current initiative to breach Israels naval blockade of Gaza by attempting to deliver aid directly. IHH also tried to breach an Israeli blockade of Gaza during the conflict in 2010.

The Taliban has been attempting to restore ties with foreign countries and non-government organizations since it seized control of Afghanistan in August 2021 and reestablished its Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. While no country has officially recognized the Taliban as the official government, nations such as China, Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, India, Pakistan, and Japan maintain embassies in Afghanistan.

The Talibans growing ties with Turkey are a worrying development since the Taliban continues to host Al Qaeda and allow Afghanistan to maintain and develop an extensive terror infrastructure.

Sinan Ciddi is a non-resident Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and an expert on Turkish domestic politics and foreign policy.. Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal.
Apples wearable devices, including the Apple Watch and AirPods, could gain hefty increases in battery life thanks to a new development in battery technology.

TDK, a major Japanese firm which has supplied batteries and other components for the iPhone, announced Monday that it has developed a material for a next-gen solid-state battery with far higher energy density than those used previously.

In a press release (via CNBC), the company boasts that it has successfully developed a material for CeraCharge, a next-generation solid-state battery with an energy density of 1,000 Wh/L, approximately 100 times greater than the energy density of TDKs conventional solid-state battery.

This technology, TDK says, is intended to be used in various wearable devices, such as wireless earphones, hearing aids and even smartwatches, with the goal of replacing existing coin cell batteries.

Apple has been pushing hard into the wearables space in recent years, as the company anticipates the eventual move of most computing tasks from a smartphone in the hand to smaller and lighter devices on the body. The AirPods wireless earbuds are among Apples most commercially successful devices, while the Apple Watch will next year celebrate its tenth anniversary and gets major stage time at the companys events. Both devices would obviously benefit from increased battery life, with the Apple Watch in particular frequently compared unfavorably with simpler rival devices such as Fitbits which can be charged less often.

Its important, of course, to remember how slowly such developments tend to progress, and even if Apple shows an interest in incorporating TDKs new tech in its products they are unlikely to appear for some years. In the meantime, you can read about the new AirPods for 2024 and this falls Apple Watch Series 10 in separate articles.

Were expecting to see Apple Watch Series 10, Apple Watch Ultra 3 and Apple Watch SE 3rd generation, running watchOS 11, launch in September 2024 at the companys Glowtime event (see how to watch the September event). If youre in the market for a new Apple Watch, see our Apple Watch buying guide, round-up of the best Apple Watch deals, and advice on whether you should buy Apple Watch now or wait. You might also be interested in what other new Apple products are coming this year, and when is the next Apple event.
For the last two years, the city of Malden has locked horns with a cannabis company that argues local zoning laws are so restrictive, they make it effectively impossible to open a pot shop.

Now, as a civil suit between prospective cannabis dispensary Benevolent Botanicals and the city nears trial, another pot shop is jumping in the ring.

Christopher Fevry, co-owner of the husband-and-wife-run cannabis company Dris, said he looked at hundreds of properties across Malden to open a future retail marijuana store.

Of the more than 13,000 parcels of land scattered across the city, just a few dozen met the array of municipal requirements for where marijuana dispensaries could open. None of those properties were available for sale or rent, Fevry said.

Dris sued Malden and several city officials in Massachusetts Land Court last month after a city board denied the companys appeal for a variance that would have provided a limited exception to the stringent zoning rules.

The case echoes the lawsuit brought by Benevolent Botanicals in 2022 after it, too, lost an appeal for a similar exception to a property it identified on Eastern Avenue.

Michael Clebnik, CEO of Benevolent Botanicals, said the dispensary spent thousands and thousands of dollars and years of time seeking a business location that met Maldens zoning standards, to no avail.

More than 54% of Malden voters supported cannabis legalization in 2016, narrowly outpacing the measures statewide support.

Seven-and-a-half years on, more than 350 cannabis shops are open across the state. Two found available retail locations in Malden and opened in the last 18 months. But thats little solace to Benevolent Botanicals or Dris.

An attorney for the city of Malden declined to comment on the lawsuits.

In legal filings in the Benevolent Botanicals case, the city said the assertion that its zoning effectively prohibits companies from opening a dispensary was plainly inaccurate.

The citys regulations are squarely within its authority under the law, Maldens attorneys wrote, arguing local officials had a clear right to regulate the time, place and manner of operations of marijuana businesses, just as they can with companies in other industries.

The city has not yet responded to the lawsuit filed by Dris. Fevry hopes his lawsuit will be combined with the Benevolent Botanicals case before its tentatively scheduled October trial date.

Chris Fevry is pictured at Natick headquarters of Dris, a cannabis delivery service he runs with his wife and business partner Dharry Fevry.Will Katcher/MassLive

How restrictive are Maldens zoning laws?

Under state regulations, cannabis businesses cannot be located within 500 feet of a school.

Maldens laws go further.

In addition to limiting pot shops to designated business districts, a common practice in municipal zoning, the densely-populated city says dispensaries must operate more than 250 feet from parks and 75 feet from homes, houses of worship, day care centers and substance abuse treatment facilities.

Dispensaries also cannot share a property with another business, eliminating their hopes of opening in strip malls or similar developments.

The result, both companies argued in legal filings, is a Venn diagram of buffer zones that leaves 55 acceptable properties in a city with 13,454 parcels of land. None of the locations were available for sale or lease, the companies said.

Theyve passed an ordinance thats so restrictive, theres no properties that meet it, Clebnik said.

Fevry and his wife Dharry, who together operate a cannabis delivery service based in Natick, spent more than $75,000 over the last four years seeking a location for a retail dispensary in Malden.

Unable to find a spot that met all zoning requirements, they settled on a location at 28 Broadway that fell within 75 feet of four residential properties, and hoped the city would allow a variance to the zoning code. A Malden board denied their appeal in April.

State law allows communities to impose reasonable safeguards on the location of marijuana companies. However, those restrictions cant be unreasonably impractical, defined as subjecting companies to unreasonable risk or requiring such lofty investments of money or time that a reasonably prudent businessperson would not want to operate.

Malden City Councilor Karen Colon Hayes, a proponent of changing the citys zoning laws, said the regulations are among the states most restrictive for cannabis businesses and keep Malden from earning more tax revenue in a time of dire financial need.

Defending the lawsuits is costing the city money, Hayes said in a phone call. She was dismayed when her colleague, City Councilor Chris Simonelli, withdrew an ordinance that would have changed the laws during a meeting earlier this month.

Simonelli told the council he pulled the ordinance after hearing from constituents who did not want a cannabis dispensary in the neighborhood.

Hayes said she voted against legalizing marijuana in 2016, but has since changed her opinion of the drug after seeing its medicinal benefits for a family member.

We need to have this available to our residents in Malden, she said. People here walk places. We need easy access. And we would benefit from it financially as well.

City Councilor Amanda Linehan said the city doesnt want to create a reputation that Malden is a hard place to open a business.

She said the city board that reviewed both dispensaries requests for variances had to judge whether the proposed businesses would have violated the zoning laws, with little ability to rule subjectively on the nuances of the owners requests.

Regardless of whats going on with the litigation, we clearly have a system right now where applicants are struggling to fully move forward, Linehan said.

The process for licensing cannabis dispensaries needs updating, and thats something were positioned to do as elected officials, she added. We know even if you take those lawsuits off the table that our process is broken and its our responsibility to fix local laws.
On Friday, the latest batch of episodes of Netflix dating show Perfect Match documented one of the shows most dramatic break-ups to date  a split between Massachusetts native and Surviving Paradise star Justin Assad and Too Hot to Handle winner Elys Hutchinson.

But according to Assad, many illuminating moments in his relationship with Hutchinson were left out of the final cut of the show, as was a connection he nearly pursued with another cast member. These unaired scenes paint many aspects of the show  including his relationship with Hutchinson  in a substantially different light.

The rise of Justin and Elys

It can be difficult for viewers to accurately gauge how much time has passed between scenes while watching Perfect Match, but according to Assad, he and Hutchinson were together in the villa  the shows residence and primary setting  for somewhere between 10 days and two weeks. This is a lengthy relationship by Perfect Match standards, he said.

After a somewhat awkward first date involving a tiny ice bath, Hutchinson told Assad she was romantically interested in him, and they matched at their next opportunity. In the next day or two, he began to relax and get more comfortable with her, and she soon told him that she was seeing a new, fun side of him that she liked, he said.

The couple grew closer and developed a routine where Assad would make Hutchinson coffee and avocado toast each morning  an aspect of their relationship that Squid Game: The Challenge star Bryton Constantin later mocked as being boring while trying to coax Hutchinson into leaving Assad for himself. But the conversations about life that Assad and Hutchinson had each morning were among the things Assad liked most about their relationship, he said.

Its the little things, right? he said. Big dates are fun ... but if you had to pick and choose the greatest moments, its probably the ones that lay in between when youre just solely existing with one another.

In fact, according to Assad, one of the shows producers later told him the 160-page compatibility questionnaire the cast members filled out prior to the show indicated that Assad and Hutchinson were the most compatible pair among the cast.

The conflict viewers didnt see

Despite Assads and Hutchinsons strong connection, Assad said a conflict between another couple later led to cracks in his and Hutchinsons relationship, though these scenes werent included in the final cut of the show.

In one episode, Assad can be seen backing Hutchinson in suggesting to Love is Blind star Micah Lussier that she explore other romantic connections after Lussier expresses frustration with her current match  Dated and Related star Kaz Bishop. What viewers didnt see was that Assad later regretted his support for Hutchinsons recommendation after realizing he hadnt discussed the issue with Bishop, who Assad said is still a close friend of his.

After an apology from Assad led to an emotional reconciliation with Bishop, Assad went upstairs to the room he shared with Hutchinson in tears and told her he was thinking of leaving the show. Filming had become stressful and nearly cost him a valued friendship, he told her.

Hutchinson became angry and upset, questioning how much Assad cared for her if he was willing to abandon their connection, he said. He ultimately decided to stay on the show and try to make things up to her by being more affectionate  as she had requested.

It was Hutchinsons previous encouragement of Assad being more open about his feelings for her that made her decision to match with Constantin a few days later so shocking to him, he said. Even more surprising was the explanation viewers heard her give to other cast members  that the relationship had become too serious too quickly.

For everything to slip and switch in a matter of, like, 10, 15 minutes was crazy, he said.

The episode later showed Hutchinson attempting to explain her decision to Assad only to see her attempts spurned by her former match. He ultimately leaves the villa, citing on camera a lack of romantic interest in other cast members.

Hutchinson did not reply to multiple requests to comment on this article.

An unaired romance that sheds new light

Regardless of what transpired between Assad and Hutchinson, viewers saw Perfect Matchs producers repeatedly reinforce Constantins characterization of their relationship as dull and unexciting through their scene editing.

The most blatant example is during a scene that takes place shortly before their split in which Assad can be heard telling Hutchinson he wants to solidify their connection. The shows editors superimpose images of Constantin over the scene and play a romantic song reminiscent of 80s yacht rock while Assad speaks, implying that Hutchinson is not listening to him and is instead fantasizing about Constantin.

In a less obvious example in an earlier episode, Assad is seen apparently trying and failing to connect with Too Hot to Handle star Holly Scarfone. The clip shows Scarfone telling Assad he speaks eloquently, after which she asks what his favorite book is. In the show, he answers Goodnight Moon  a famous childrens book, which appears to put off Scarfone. The episode then cuts to a confessional clip of her saying she didnt feel a spark with an unnamed cast member and would not be pursuing him.

In reality, not only did Scarfone attempt to flirt with Assad over the course of a much longer conversation, but according to Assad, his initial answer to her question was For Whom the Bell Tolls by Ernest Hemingway. Scarfone didnt seem familiar with the classic American novel, so Assad unsuccessfully attempted to save the moment through a joke.

Even more notable is that, according to Assad, after Hutchinson matched with Constantin, Assad and Scarfone reconnected and decided to match  a development that was not included in the show. This may be because, after speaking again with Hutchinson, Assad recanted his decision despite his affection for Scarfone.

I wasnt gonna falsify some sort of emotion and drag someone along just for the sake of screen time, he said. I was really there trying to find my perfect match, so I made the conscious decision to leave.

Scarfone later told Assad his reversal on their matching left her feeling blindsided because he had convinced her to match with him, he said. But the pair reconciled after he explained that his decision was not about his attraction to her and was instead a due to timing. They also kept in touch after the show and have since had cheeky moments, though Assad declined to go into further detail.

Scarfone did not reply to multiple requests to comment on this article.

Where Assad and Hutchinson stand now

Initially, Assad felt guilty for shutting down Hutchinsons attempt to explain why she decided to match with Constantin. At the time, he said, the conversation felt forced and pointless.

You made your decision. Why dont you just own it? he said of Hutchinson.

Assad also cut off the conversation was because didnt want to risk letting Hutchinsons view of their relationship impact his self-worth, he said.

In that situation, I wasnt going to let someone else determine my own value or my thought and perception of myself, he said.

After the show, what most troubled Assad most was thought of regressing on progress hed made in therapy towards letting himself be emotionally vulnerable in romantic relationships. He had gone on the show intent on turning a new leaf and had successfully opened up to Hutchinson only to eventually feel that the carpet had been pulled out from under him, he said.

Im not necessarily upset that Elys doesnt pick me, but my mind starts stressing about Am I gonna revert back to that person that I was before and is it gonna be tough time getting back, he said.

Even so, despite some reservations about how viewers might perceive his reaction Hutchinsons choice, Assad ended up experiencing an outpouring of support from fans that has helped him heal.

Im finally able to gain closure from that situation, he said.

Assad and Hutchinson have communicated since the show ended, according to Assad. So far, the former couple appears to be friendly.

While Assad sometimes wishes hed pursued other connections on Perfect Match, he said he ultimately stands by his decision.

I knew what I wanted. I followed my heart, and when things didnt feel natural or organic to me, thats when I closed that chapter, he said.

Possible unexpected twists

Perfect Match season twos final episode is set to premiere on Friday, June 21, and there are still many lingering issues.

First and foremost is whether Netflix will decide to air footage that would clarify the biggest source of conflict this season: Too Hot to Handle star Melinda Melroses claim that Harry Jowsey  another Too Hot to Handle alum  kissed her whilst matched with Love is Blind star Jessica Vestal. Jowsey  who has a reputation for promiscuity  repeatedly denies the claim on the show, and so far, the episodes have only included clips showing Jowsey carrying Melrose, purportedly to spare her bare feet from some rough gravel.

At the time Jowsey is supposed to have kissed Melrose, Assad was sitting with Scarfone with his back turned to Melrose and Jowsey, he said. He did not see what happened between Melrose and Jowsey  who is is close friend, but he still takes Jowsey at his word that a kiss never happened.

Notably though, Scarfone said at the time  and still maintains  that she saw Jowsey and Melrose kiss.

It is unclear if Netflix even captured footage that would support or disprove Melroses claim, but Kinetic Content  which produces both Love is Blind and Perfect Match  is notorious for keeping viewers hooked by waiting until the tail end of a season to air footage of any he-said-she-said moments that caused conflict over the course of the show.

Then there is the question of which couple will win season two of Perfect Match  the prize for which is a luxury vacation for the pair. On Monday, Assad indicated that the winners will likely come as a surprise to viewers.

Youre gonna see who wins this and youre gonna be like, Wait, when were they a couple? he said.
When you travel below the Mason-Dixon Line, youll find some of the most mouthwatering, comforting cuisine in the U.S.: Southern food.

Southern dishes are a vital part of American cuisine, from hush puppies to ham hocks and beignets to barbecue. Its impossible to define a classic Southern meal, but a solid one starts with the sharp savory flavor of pimento cheese dip, followed by the delicious crunchiness of fried chicken or a spicy Louisiana etouffee, culminating with a sugary slice of chess pie thats best washed down with a tall glass of sweet tea.

Whats unique about Southern fare is that multiple ethnic and cultural groups have influenced it. Spanish staples, such as potatoes and cocoa, are in many Southern dishes; the Acadians, who traveled to Louisiana from Nova Scotia and later became Louisiana Creoles, contributed their seafood to many Southern meals; African ingredientsokra, sorghum (an ancient grain), and black-eyed peasbecame a part of the cuisine through the forced labor of enslaved people; French cooking methods, like braising and sauteing, are used for many Southern recipes; and Native Americans introduced corn to Southern recipes, yielding dishes like succotash and grits.

The Southern culinary scene is an explosion of cultures. To find out where you can sample some Southern offerings, Stacker compiled a list of the highest-rated Southern restaurants in Boston using data from Yelp. Data is as of June 11, 2024. Businesses were selected using Yelps ranking system, which calculates an adjusted rating value that takes into account the number of ratings as well as the rating score itself. Only restaurants with at least 10 reviews were considered. In an effort to highlight independent restaurants and local chains, restaurants with more than five locations nationally, based on the Yelp data, were not included.

Read on to find the perfect spot to get a taste of the South near you.

You may also like: Highest-rated ice cream shops in Boston, according to Yelp

#10. Tasty BBQ

- Rating: 3.3/5 (38 reviews)

- Price level: $$

- Address: 417 Washington St. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: southern, barbeque- Read more on Yelp

#9. The Smoke Shop BBQ

- Rating: 3.3/5 (10 reviews)

- Address: 80 Causeway St. Hub Hall Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: barbeque, whiskey bars, southern- Read more on Yelp

#8. Lorettas Last Call

- Rating: 3.5/5 (363 reviews)

- Price level: $$

- Address: 1 Lansdowne St. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: southern, music venues, beer bar- Read more on Yelp

#7. Park 54 Restaurant & Lounge

- Rating: 3.5/5 (152 reviews)

- Address: 81 Fairmount Ave. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: lounges, southern, new american- Read more on Yelp

#6. Sweet Cheeks Q

- Rating: 3.6/5 (1736 reviews)

- Price level: $$

- Address: 1381 Boylston St. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: southern, bars, barbeque- Read more on Yelp

#5. Grace By Nia

- Rating: 3.7/5 (176 reviews)

- Address: 60 Seaport Blvd. Floor 3 Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: jazz & blues, southern, cocktail bars- Read more on Yelp

#4. Bacco

- Rating: 3.8/5 (411 reviews)

- Price level: $$

- Address: 107 Salem St. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: Italian, wine bars, southern- Read more on Yelp

#3. Hunters Kitchen & Bar

- Rating: 3.9/5 (100 reviews)

- Price level: $$

- Address: 110 Dorchester St. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: bars, southern, comfort food- Read more on Yelp

#2. The Smoke Shop BBQ - Seaport

- Rating: 3.9/5 (432 reviews)

- Price level: $$

- Address: 343 Congress St. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: southern, barbeque, whiskey bars- Read more on Yelp

#1. Buttermilk & Bourbon

- Rating: 4.0/5 (1114 reviews)

- Price level: $$$

- Address: 160 Commonwealth Ave. Boston, Massachusetts

- Categories: southern, bars, tapas bars- Read more on Yelp

This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Rasha Aly, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 143 metros.
Police arrested 16 suspects and issued summonses to 20 suspects on sex-related charges in the past two weeks as part of an ongoing investigation, according to a statement from the Boston Police Department.

The arrests are a result of work by the Human Trafficking Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, the Massachusetts State Police High-Risk Victims Unit and Lynn Police.

The suspects are facing charges that range from enticement of a child under the age of 16, sexual conduct for a fee, attempted rape of a child, drug charges, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

Seven of the suspects are in Lynn.

The suspects include:
It has become a tradition on Juneteenth to highlight Black-owned businesses.

Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans were informed of their liberation, is a celebration of freedom.

In Springfield, where African Americans make up 20% of the population, according to data from the U.S. Census, there are numerous Black-owned businesses to support.

Here are some Springfield and Western Massachusetts businesses to celebrate on Juneteenth.

Touch of NYC Hair Boutique is a Black-owned salon in Springfield. Patrons can book an appointment online or at the salons where a variety of cosmetic services are offered.

Hair is our passion, and our passion shows on every client that walks out of our doors, the boutiques website reads. Through ongoing education, our stylists stay up to date on the latest styles and techniques to bring you the looks you want.

Touch of NYC Hair Boutique LLC is located at 803 Belmont Ave. in Springfield.

The African Diaspora Mental Health Association is an outpatient mental health clinic that serves patients in the greater Springfield area, according to its website.

The association offers various services, including individual therapy, group therapy and medication management, according to its website. The African Diaspora Mental Health Association also offers a gun violence program that educates participants about the trauma of gun violence.

Although the African Diaspora Mental Health Association focuses on individuals from the African Diaspora, the association supports all people.

African Diaspora Mental Health Association is located at 605 State St. in Springfield. The association is open from Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Olive Tree Books-n-Voices is a Black-owned bookstore in Springfield.

The building where it is located used to be a drug den, but with the hard work of people who wanted Olive Tree to grow, the former drug den turned into a homey place, according to bookshop.org. With more than 700 titles, Olive Tree Books-n-Voices has a wide variety of works to choose from.

You can make a selection from the Inspirational & Religious room, browse in the historical section, view our new wellness section or have a cup of coffee or tea while using Wi-Fi, curl up on the sofa with a best seller, read to your unborn child in our Mothers rocking chair, or have your children read stories in the Young Readers room, according to bookshop.org.

Olive Tree Books-n-Voices is located at 97 Hancock St. in Springfield. The bookstore is open on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Souper Sweet Sandwich Shop serves signature sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts.

Patrons at Souper Sweet can order lunch meals such as The Stake out, a sandwich made with shaved steak, onions, arugula and gorgonzola spread, according to its menu.

Also on the menu are breakfast meals such as the Hush your Mouth, a crunchy French toast bread filled with ham, or chicken sausage, egg and fontina cheese, according to Souper Sweets menu.

Souper Sweet Sandwich Shop is located at 929 Belmont Ave. in Springfield. The restaurant is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., according to its website.

The Pan African Historical Museum USA in Springfield holds a collection of print materials to support the artifacts on display, according to the museums website.

The museum showcases the lasting impact of slavery and Springfields role in helping enslaved African Americans find freedom during the Transatlantic Slave Trade, according to the museum.

The Pan African Historical Museum USA has three galleries, each one dedicated to art, artifacts and paintings, according to the museum website.

The Pan African Historical Museum USA is located at 1500 Main St. in Springfield. The museum is open on Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Friday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is open by reservation on Saturdays and Sundays.
Freedom.

Its the seven-lettered word that almost defines Juneteenth, the annual holiday that celebrates the historic day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans were told they were liberated.

This holiday has been long celebrated in the African American community, but it became an official federal holiday on June 17, 2021, when President Joe Biden signed it into law.

During Juneteenth, Black businesses are highlighted as a way to support the African American community, which has been harmed by economic inequality, according to the Center for American Progress.

Here are some Black-owned businesses in Boston you can support this Juneteenth.

Grace by Nia is opening a second location at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut only one year after the jazz club opened in Boston's Seaport district.Big Night

Last May, Grace by Nia, a popular jazz bar and club in Bostons Seaport district, opened its doors as a Black-owned speakeasy in 2023. This swanky restaurant offers live music, a lounge and a menu filled with traditional African American foods such as gumbo greens, cajun jambalaya and creole pasta, according to its menu.

The owner, Nia Grace, is one of the few business owners of color in the area. Earlier this year, Grace announced that shed be opening a second location in Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut, MassLive previously reported.

Grace by Nia is located at 60 Seaport Blvd. #325 in Boston and is open on Wednesday and Thursday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m, according to the speakeasys website.

Grace by Nia is also located at 350 Trolley Line Blvd. in Ledyard, Connecticut, and is open on Thursday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., Friday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday for brunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday for brunch from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., according to the speakeasys website.

As Bostons only Black-owned bookstore, Frugal Bookstore has promoted books  many of which focus on people of color  since 2008, according to the bookstores website.

During the early months of the 2020 pandemic, the bookstore experienced financial upset, GBH reported. In need of support, Leonard Egerton and Clarrissa Cropper launched a GoFundMe campaign for Frugal Bookstore. But after Black Lives Matter protests sparked across the nation in the wake of George Floyds death, interest in the bookstore grew  massively.

Egerton said the bookstore got 20,000 orders in four days, GBH reported.

Business has quieted down since 2020, GBH said. Customers at Frugal Bookstores can find classics such as August Wilsons Fences, and Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye and newer novels such as Tomi Adeyemis Children Of Blood and Bone.

Frugal Bookstore is located at 57 Warren St. in Roxbury and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., according to the stores website.

Boston While Black connects Black professionals, students and entrepreneurs in Boston, according to the organizations website.

The membership organization was founded in 2020 by Sheena Collier, who moved to Boston roughly two decades ago to pursue a degree from Harvard Universitys Graduate School of Education, according to the organizations website.

Collier said while she lived in the city, she missed the connection to Black culture she found in Albany  her home city  and Atlanta, where she attended school, according to the organizations website. So, she started to form connections with other Black people on her own.

Boston While Black hosts several events, meet-ups and an annual trip to Marthas Vineyard as a way to engage its current 746 members, according to the organization.

Membership to Boston While Black can be found here on its website.

One United Bank headquarters in DorchesterJohn Phelan

OneUnited Bank is the nations largest Black-owned bank.

The bank offers several financial products and services, including personal and business banking, loans and online banking options, according to its website.

The bank has a specific focus on uplifting and empowering the Black community through financial literacy and economic inclusion, according to the bank.

OneUnited Bank is headquartered at 100 Franklin St. in Boston. The bank is open from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, according to the banks website.

Entrepreneurs Kobie Evans, left, and Kevin Hart, second from right, work with retail sales manager Patrick Hoy, center front, moments before Pure Oasis recreational marijuana shop opened for the first time on March 9, 2020, in Boston. Pure Oasis is Boston's first recreational marijuana shop, and the state's first black-owned one. Evans and Hart are co-owners of the shop. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)AP

Pure Oasis is Bostons first marijuana dispensary and Massachusetts first black-owned cannabis retail outlet, MassLive previously reported.

Founded by owners Kevin Hart and Kobie Evan, Pure Oasis is also the first business to open through one of the Cannabis Control Commissions equity programs, an initiative designed to assist people and communities negatively harmed by the war on drugs.

Some of the employees who work at Pure Oasis have criminal backgrounds. Part of the businesss mission is to give back and give people a second chance.

At Pure Oasis, customers can purchase pre-rolled joints, edibles and cannabis cartridges and other marijuana-related products, according to the dispensarys website.

Pure Oasis is located at 430 Blue Hill Ave. in Boston and is open every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., according to the dispensarys website.

Pure Oasis is also located at 85 Devonshire St. in Boston and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m, according to the dispensarys website.

Final Touch Boutique is a Black-owned clothing store in Roxbury.

The store, which was founded in 2005, offers customers a variety of clothing options, such as dresses, tops and leggings. The stores in-store product collections are limited to three pieces of any style, according to Final Touch Boutiques website.

Final Touch Boutique is open from Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and it is closed on Sundays, according to the stores website.

Prior material from MassLive was used in this article.
The mother believed to have been shot dead by her 24-year-old daughter in Bedford on June 6 is remembered by her loved ones as a bubbly and bright woman who loved her family and friends unconditionally.

Thelma Tatten, 56, was found dead with gunshot wounds inside a car on Washington Street in Bedford that Thursday morning, the Middlesex District Attorneys office said. Her partner of 26 years, Mark Cavallaro, 56, was also found shot and later died at the hospital.

Everyone who knew Thelma would describe her as always happy and outgoing, read Tattens obituary.

She loved to laugh and spend time with family and friends, going on vacations, camping, attending fairs and concerts, going to the movies flea markets, and coin/bottle shows, or simply just spending time at home, her loved ones wrote. She also enjoyed going to bingo on Wednesdays with her friends.

Tatten had worked for the Massachusetts Medical Society for 36 years, and worked most recently in the role of web content production specialist with their New England Journal of Medicine Group Education division.

She was also a grandmother who cherished her Neena and Papa time playing hide and seek, doing puzzles and being outdoors with her grandson. She was a devoted partner, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who was always the first to help when needed.

She will be greatly missed, but always remembered with much love and respect by all those she knew and held dear, her loved ones wrote.

A private graveside funeral service will be held for Tattens family at Grove Hill Cemetery in Waltham. Donations can be made in Tattens name to the The Edinburg Center, Inc. at 205 Burlington Rd., Bedford, MA 01730.

Tatten and Cavallaros daughter, Jessica Cavallaro, is suspected in the couples death. Investigators believe the 24-year-old, who lives on Washington Street, is the significant other of another Washington Street resident, where the crime was first reported.

Cavallaros parents lived in another part of Bedford, and the district attorneys office said it was not clear why they came to the Washington Street home that Thursday morning.

The 24-year-old has been charged with murder, two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury and illegal possession of a firearm.
Those hoping to follow in Henry David Thoreaus footsteps by taking a dip in Walden Pond this summer are being told to find another beach.

Officials with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation said that the beach will be underwater until at least the fall after last years heavy rains.

In a post on Instagram, Visitor Services Supervisor Kyle Griffiths said in a video message that most of the famous beach would be underwater for the duration of the summer.

Last year 60 inches of rain dropped on Walden compared to its usual 50, and over the winter all that water seeped down to the pond and by April of this year, the beach was pretty much gone, Griffiths said.

Walden was created by glacial activity during the most recent Ice Age, and is the lowest point in the region and doesnt have any outlets to other bodies of water.

The only way for the beach to return is for the excess water to evaporate, and that takes a long time, said Ryan Hutton, a digital strategist with the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Throughout the video, images of Walden park benches submerged underwater are shown, along with a ridiculously narrow slice of beach along Waldens bank.

The Walden Pond waterfront is open, and lifeguards are on duty, but the department is recommending swimmers pick another beach for their summertime swimming.

Griffiths had another pronouncement that would likely make Thoreaus skin crawl.

If you do come to visit us here at Walden, please stick to the designated swim areas, Griffiths said. We already have people trying to find their own swimming spots along the shoreline and theyre trampling plant habitat and damaging the ecology of the pond.
With the federal Juneteenth holiday arriving Wednesday in tandem with sweltering heat, Massachusetts residents were advised to avoid swimming at 19 beaches across the state, many of which were closed for water quality concerns.

The closures affected beaches from Cape Cod and Nantucket to the Berkshires, according to the states Beach Water Quality Dashboard, a platform maintained by the Department of Public Health.

Nearly all the closed beaches had excessive levels of harmful bacteria in the water.

If a beach is closed, do not swim or enter the water at that location to avoid risk of illness, public health officials warned.

The dashboard is updated twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon, and shows the results of recent water quality tests at beaches across the state. More than 1,100 public and semi-public beaches in the state are regularly monitored.

Despite the closures, state officials say the beaches are still safe for recreational activities aside from swimming.

The full list of closures is below. If you cant see the chart, click here.

Separate from its closure for excessive bacteria, state Department of Conservation and Recreation officials also asked the public to avoid swimming at Walden Pond in Concord because much of its beachfront is still underwater after last summers heavy rains.

Wednesdays beach closures come as communities across the state brace for temperatures to reach more than 90 degrees by the afternoon.

The weeks heat wave is expected to peak Thursday, with projected temperatures in the mid-to-upper 90s in many areas, according to the National Weather Service.
After voting down their school budgets and approaching a deadline that would lay off all school staff members and close the public schools, residents of both Uxbridge and Winchendon voted in favor of their school budgets.

While the two Central Massachusetts towns faced pushback on their school budgets, both were able to pass their school budgets in part through revising the budgets, a union vocally supporting and encouraging others to vote in favor of the budget, and the looming prospect of a July 1 deadline of closing the schools.

Around a hundred school employees from the Uxbridge Teachers Association stood outside the meeting locations at the Valley Chapel and the Uxbridge High School with signs and t-shirts in support of the budget, according to Brian Carter, Uxbridge Teachers Association president.
TORONTO  Before Mondays game, Red Sox manager Alex Cora said he didnt think star third baseman Rafael Devers would participate in this years Home Run Derby if asked. A day later, Devers confirmed thats the case.

If asked, Devers  who is on track to make the All-Star team for the third time in his career  will decline the invitation.

Its not something I have on my mind that I want to do in my career, Devers said through translator Carlos Villoria Benitez.

The Red Sox have not had a player participate in the Derby since 2011, when both Adrian Gonzalez and David Ortiz did it. Gonzalez finished twice that year. Ortiz won in 2010 in Anaheim and also competed in 2004, 2005 and 2006. The last Boston participant before him was Carl Everett in 2000.

Devers said he has never been asked to participate. Cora said that despite none of his players ever participating, hes not urging them to say no if invited.

If they want to do it, theyll do it, Cora said.

Devers seems like a sure bet to represent the Red Sox at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas on July 16, as he entered play Tuesday hitting .282 with 14 homers, 38 RBIs and a .929 OPS in 61 games. He ranks fifth in the American League in both OPS and slugging percentage (.555) and leads all third basemen in slugging, OPS and wRC+ (151). Devers has been an All-Star twice before, in 2021 and 2022.

In MLBs first All-Star voting update, Devers had received the third-most votes among AL third baseman, behind Clevelands Jose Ramirez and Baltimores Jordan Westburg. Its more likely hes elected as a reserve.

It would be great, he said. Everybody in the big leagues wants to be in the All-Star Game. Texas is one of the best ballparks, too. It would be very nice to be able to go.
In a message this week to the University of Massachusetts Amherst community, Chancellor Javier A. Reyes admitted that the events of May 7 and 8 were challenging.

That they were  for a lot of people. Definitely for the 134 students, faculty and community members arrested when police descended on protesters calling for UMass to cut ties with weapons makers in light of the war in Gaza.
A county Mayo based legal firm, P OConnor & Son, is celebrating their major success at the annual Irish Law Awards 2024.

The Swinford solicitors scooped the accolade as Law Firm of the Year 2024 (Regional Connaught/Ulster).

Additionally, its Managing Partner, Samantha Geraghty, was named Practitioner of the Year (Regional Connaught Ulster).

The annual Irish Law Awards aim to recognise excellence in Irelands legal profession.

Speaking at the gala ceremony in the Clayton Hotel, Dublin, Ms Geraghty said the latest accolades could be attributed to the tremendous efforts of the entire team at the firm.

Ms Geraghty is a former recipient of the Irish Language Practitioner of the Year award.

The Irish Law Awards aim to identify, honour and publicise outstanding achievements, while also recognising those who have dedicated their lives to serving in the legal profession.

The annual event is designed to recognise excellence in the legal profession in Ireland, commending the achievements of lawyers.

Staffed by a highly qualified team of solicitors, legal executives and legal secretaries, P OConnor & Son, founded in 1900, provides a comprehensive range of legal services and advice.

The firm especially prides itself on its friendly and professional approach to clients.

Among the many accolades secured by the firm over the decades was the Quality Mark for services and the Irish Quality Associations National Award for services.

P OConnor & Son was the first firm of lawyers in the west of Ireland to achieve these prestigious awards.
Local Ireland, the association representing local news publishers across the country, has launched its annual Media Awards.

Entries are being sought across 17 categories with an additional category for Lifetime Achievement being nominated by the Local Ireland executive.

This will be the ninth edition of the awards and the seventh to be sponsored by the National Lottery, who have their own special category for Best Community Story.

National Lottery Head of Corporate Affairs Jennifer Lowe said: We are incredibly proud of our continued association with the Local Ireland Media Awards that recognise the top-class journalists and media professionals who tirelessly serve our local communities.

The power of local media and local storytelling cannot be taken for granted as it plays such a pivotal role in inspiring, informing and transforming communities, values which we at the National Lottery recognise and champion through the funding raised for thousands of Good Causes across Ireland.

Local media outlets champion the stories that would otherwise remain untold, shedding light on the extraordinary individuals, events, and initiatives that shape the fabric of our society. We look forward to celebrating the exceptional work of local media.

President of Local Ireland and Head of Irish Times Regionals Dan Linehan said: Local Ireland is delighted to have the National Lottery onboard for the awards.

The awards are a chance to recognise and highlight the role of local publishers in their communities and showcase the best of local journalism. The National Lottery are ideal partners for the awards as a national brand and one that supports almost every community in Ireland.

Chair of the judges, author and broadcaster Alison OConnor, said: It is an honour to chair the judging panel for the Local Ireland Media Awards. The awards are all about recognising the very best of the work done in the newsrooms of regional newspapers across the country. The quality shines though in the many entries submitted.

This years awards will include three new categories  for Best Headline, Best Diversity Journalism and Best Sustainability Journalism.

Executive Director of Local Ireland Bob Hughes said: I am delighted that we have added three new categories to our awards and would like to welcome to the judging panel, novelist and newspaper columnist Dr Martina Devlin, award-winning journalist and Policy Editor of the Business Post Daniel Murray and Deputy Night Editor of the Irish Sun Gerry McCarthy. I also want to thank our returning judges for offering their expertise once again.

The judging panel also includes broadcaster and journalist Dearbhail McDonald, Emeritus Professor at TUD Michael Foley, Dawn Wheatley of DCU School of Communications, Managing Director of Kinetic Ireland Andrew Sinclair, photographer and former Irish Times Picture Editor Frank Miller, broadcaster and writer Valerie Cox, and journalist and author PJ Cunningham.

Entries for the awards close on June 28 with nominations announced in early August.

Winners will be declared at a gala event at Mullingar Park Hotel on Thursday September 19th. The event will be hosted by Lyric FM presenter and Eurovision guru Marty Whelan.
A Mayo woman, who is the new Junior Vice-President of IPAV, the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers, has said housing policy needs a paradigm shift.

Kay McGuire, who is from Kilmaine, is Managing Director of Galway Property Services, and has said the shift must address a number of persistent problems that have hampered property supply and affordability.

Speaking at the organisations annual conference in Limerick, Ms McGuire called last months Housing Commission Report a blueprint to address persistent impediments, particularly those involving planning, the provision of infrastructure, approval processes by State organisations and financing both within the State sector and elsewhere.

Initiated by the Government, this report has taken two and a half years of consideration. It must not be allowed to lie gathering dust amongst the libraries of reports on housing, she said.

The Property Management lecturer at TU Dublin added: The Government might not agree with some of the recommendations, but thats okay, Commission members themselves didnt always agree. Find alternatives. The critical thing is that they embrace the need for urgency.

In this regard, what was crucial to effecting the shift needed was bringing together the varying elements of the State housing apparatus.

Currently we have a single Government Department responsible for Housing - in name, and we have other Government Departments with involvement in particular areas of housing, including Finance; Justice and Social Protection, to name but three, she said.

We have Local Authorities acting largely independently, often even within their own particular areas of responsibility, Ms McGuire continued.

She said it was critical that a more cohesive structure was set up urgently and that it would be time lined, even if its not the precise Housing Delivery Oversight Executive recommended in the Commission Report.

Whatever the mechanism, housing policy must be coordinated, given whole of Government attention, and urgently. Otherwise, we will not succeed in delivering the 212,500 to 256,000 homes deficit identified in the report, she warned.

Speaking about the property market in Mayo, Ms McGuire addressed the Real Estate Alliances recent report that 20 percent of all sales in the county in the first quarter of 2024 were Landlords leaving the market.

Whilst many of these houses will have been purchased by owner occupiers, which is wonderful, this level of loss of stock to the rental market is not sustainable as continued lack of properties on the rental market continues to put upward pressures on rents, Ms McGuire concluded.
Mayo native Pippa Hackett, who grew up in Ballindine, wants to be the next leader of the Green Party, following Eamon Ryan's shock resignation yesterday. The leadership race is in full swing.

Roderic O'Gorman announced his intention to run earlier this morning, Senator Pippa Hackett was tipped to run early on herself.

Then this afternoon Hackett declared her intention to run on Newstalk's The Hard Shoulder: "Yes, I am delighted to say that I am putting my name forward. I can be that fresh start that our party needs."

She explained on the radio show: "I'm a sheep farmer, I'm also a mother, I've also been a cabinet minister for the past four years. And the party really has never had a non-Dublin leader. We've never had a woman lead the party and I believe my different perspective and certainly my different life experiences can make the Green Party relevant and relatable inside and outside of Dublin."

First elected to the Seanad's Agricultural Panel in March 2020, Senator Hackett was appointed Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity at the Department of Agriculture.

She currently lives on a farm in Offaly, with her husband Mark, who is the Green Party's sole representative on Offaly County Council.

In her early years, she had a passion for horses and show jumping and was a regular performer at the Winter League at Hanley's School of Equitation in Claremorris. She is a past pupil of Mount St Michael Secondary School in Claremorris.

Right now there are two high profile candidates for the successor of Eamon Ryan: Roderic O'Gorman and Pippa Hackett. The Green Party has a proper leadership contest at their hands.
Bridgerton star Nicola Coughlan has bared it all for Kim Kardashian as she models for her brand Skims.

The 37-year-old Galway actress grew to fame playing Clare Devlin in Derry girls and recently "came home" to Ireland with her co-star Luke Newton during the Bridgerton press tour as the pair are the stars of the latest series.

Coughlan was seen modelling a Skims soft lounge long slip dress in lemonade as well as the heather grey soft lounge long sleeve dress.

A video, which was posted to the Skims Instagram shows Coughlan saying: "Everybodys wearing Skims."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SKIMS (@skims)

The video was captioned: "Nicola Coughlan For SKIMS. Everyones favorite romantic lead meets our viral dress."

Skims is an American shapewear and clothing brand co-founded by Kim Kardashian, Emma Grede and Jens Grede. Skims has a focus on body positivity and inclusivity across the brand and practice inclusive sizing.

Season three of the popular period drama features a romance between Galway actress Nicola Coughlan who plays Penelope Fetehrington and Colin Bridgerton who is played by Luke Newton.

You can stream season three part two of Bridgerton exclusively on Netflix.
With reports of increased frequency of dog attacks, biting incidents and even fatal cases, its something on the minds of people about dangerous dogs, should they be muzzled and what breeds are on this list.

Among these recent horror attacks is the tragic death of 23-year-old Limerick native Nicole Morey, who was killed by restricted breeds including an XL bully.

Just this week, a jogger in Donegal was rushed to hospital after being attacked by a rottweiler, another canine on the restricted breed list.

The dog was being walked on a lead by its female owner at the time - and the animal was not muzzled at the time of the attack.

Ireland currently does not have a ban on any dogs, but there are a total of eleven restricted breeds nationwide.

Although no breed of dog is currently banned in Ireland, a number of Irish people have called for an XL Bully ban following the horrific mauling of Nicole Morey, with previous calls being made for the ban after the deaths of a young Wexford boy last year, as well as two women in Waterford.

What are the restricted dog breeds in Ireland?

The list of restricted breeds of dog includes:

American Pit Bull Terrier

English Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Bull Mastiff

Dobermann Pinscher

Rottweiler

German Shepherd (Alsatian)

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Japanese Akita

Japanese Tosa

'Ban dog'

A so called ban-dog is a cross or mixture of any of the above breeds mentioned or any strain of the above dogs listed, and this included XL bullies.

What do these restrictions mean?

The law enforcing the restrictions of these breeds is the The Control of Dogs Regulations.

The rules of this law state that dogs from the restricted breeds above must be muzzled in public, must be kept on a short, strong lead or chain, and can only be led by people over the age of 16.

The dog must also wear a collar bearing the name and address of their owner at all times.

There are some minor exceptions to this law, such as in the case of garda and fire service dogs.

What happens if the restrictions are not followed?

If you are found in breach of restrictions, you can be issued with an on the spot fine. A fine of 300 can be issued for a restricted dog who is not properly controlled, while a fine of 200 can be issued for incorrect/no collar or ID.

Dog wardens have the authority to issue these fines and request the name and address of the person found in breech of the restrictions and law.

Dogs may also be seized if owners are not in compliance with laws and restrictions, and interfering or obstructing the dog warden can result in arrest.

Will more restrictions be put on XL bullies in Ireland?

A recent XL Bully ban has taken effect in England and Wales, prompting thousands of objections by fans of the breed across the UK and Ireland.

It is now illegal (as of December 31 2023) to rehome, sell or transfer ownership of the breed, and they must be muzzled and kept on a leash while in public spaces.

Following the recent spate of high-profile attacks, the Government is now undertaking work to see how legislation to ban XL Bully dogs can be introduced, Rural Development Minister Heather Humphreys has confirmed.

Speaking in the Seanad after the death of Nicole Morey, Ms Humphreys confirmed plans to ban the dogs.

"The UK have taken steps which mean since February it has been a criminal offence to own an XL bully. Northern Ireland are now looking at introducing similar restrictions. As somebody from the border region, I dont think we should be out of step with Northern Ireland on this," the Fine Gael TD said.

"I am consulting with the Attorney General on how a ban on the XL Bully would work in Ireland and what legislative changes may be required to give effect to this  that work is underway.

"We are also looking at other countries like Denmark and France who have implemented similar bans to see what we can learn from their experience and how it is working on the ground.

"The ban of the XL Bully in the UK has been the subject of a judicial review so its important we get this right."
by Steve McClellan , Staff Writer @mp_mcclellan, June 18, 2024

This years Pharma Grand Prix went to a campaign designed to make undergoing an MRI examoften accompanied by loud banging noises that MRI machines makeless scary for kids.

The campaign was called Magnetic Stories, and it was created by IPG health agency Area 23 for MRI maker Siemens.

The core of the campaign consisted of a series of childrens audiobooks that integrated the sometimes-frightening sounds made by the MRI device into fun elements of the stories to put children more at ease during an exam.

Pharma Jury President Collette Douaihy, Global Chief Creative Officer, Health, Dentsu Health, Global, said, The stories were meticulously crafted by renowned authors and sound designers to precisely sync each sound of the scan with exciting story moments, alleviating fear and enhancing the experience. This is storytelling at its best.

Separately, the Lions Health and United Nations Foundation Grand Prix for Good went to Impact BBDO, Dubai, UAE, for Child Wedding Cards for UN Women.

The campaign was aimed at Pakistani lawmakers urging them to pass a law making the minimum age for marriage in the country 18. It included invitations to a wedding drawn by children.

The UN estimates that worldwide 19 million girls17 and younger-- are married each year and that many of them are under the age of 15.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, June 18, 2024

The Federal Trade Commission said Tuesday that it has reason to believe that TikTok is violating or about to violate the federal children's privacy law and the FTC Act, and has referred a case against the company to the Department of Justice.

Although the Commission does not typically make public the fact that it has referred a complaint, we have determined that doing so here is in the public interest, the agency stated.

Chair Lina Khan added in a post on X that the FTC will continue to use all its tools to enforce the law without fear or favor and protect the American public from corporate lawbreaking.

The FTC hasn't yet publicly revealed specifics of the alleged violations.

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In 2019, the company agreed to pay $5.7 million to settle an FTC complaint alleging violations of the federal Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, which prohibits web companies from knowingly collecting personal information form children under 13, without parental consent. The following year, advocacy groups including Fairplay and the Center for Digital Democracy accused TikTok of continuing to violate the children's privacy law.

The FTC said Tuesday that its referral to the Justice Department stems from a compliance review of the 2019 settlement -- as well as an investigation into additional violations of the children's privacy law and the FTC Act.

A TikTok spokesperson said the company strongly disagrees with the FTC's allegations, adding that many relate to past events and practices that are factually inaccurate or have been addressed.

"We've been working with the FTC for more than a year to address its concerns, the spokesperson said. We're disappointed the agency is pursuing litigation instead of continuing to work with us on a reasonable solution.

He added that TikTok offers an age-appropriate experience with stringent safeguards, removes suspected underage users, and implemented safety features such as default screen time limits, family pairing, and privacy by default for minors under 16."

The FTC's referral to the Justice Department comes as TikTok is suing to block a new law that will ban the app nationwide unless it's sold by China-based parent company ByteDance.

Lawmakers who supported that bill expressed concerns that the Chinese government would be able to obtain data from TikTok about Americans, and that Chinese Communist Party would use the app to spread propaganda. Some lawmakers also suggested that information received through classified briefings justified the ban.

TikTok argues that the law violates the company's free speech rights, as well as the rights of its users, and that Congress passed the measure based on speculative concerns.
by Barbara Lippert , Columnist, June 18, 2024

Its not often that advertising helps to bring awareness to an age-old, intransigent cultural problem in a simple, tenderhearted way that results in political change.

But a breakthrough campaign created by Impact BBDO Dubai for UN Women, Child Wedding Cards, did just that. It won both the Lions Health Grand Prix for Good and a Gold Lion in the Health and Wellness category this week at Cannes.

Featuring hand-drawn wedding invitations made by girls ages 5-15, including one from an actual child bride, the direct mail campaign helped sway Pakistani lawmakers to raise the minimum age of marriage in Pakistan to 18.

UN and other Pakistani activists have been working for decades to end the phenomenon of child brides (and some grooms,) some being married off as young as the age of 5, usually in the most economically disadvantaged, rural parts of the country.

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Among many things, girls who are forced to marry so young lose their opportunities for schooling, and face an increased risk of early pregnancy, in turn increasing the risk of child and maternal health complications and mortality. They are sometimes isolated from family and friends, and many are excluded from participating in their communities, which takes a toll on their mental health and well-being.

To address this problem, Impact BBDO, working with UN Women, reached out to young girls aged 5-15, from different parts of the country, to draw and color wedding invitations to a fictional childs nuptials. Six designs were selected to reflect different parts of the country.

The touching entry video shows various little hands at work, squeezing paint and filling the cards with flowers and little human figures.

The innocence and charm of the drawings is magnetic, in cruel contrast to the brutality of the issue they are confronting.

Its the most universal way to dramatize a poignant, human need for justice.

The direct-mail part of the campaign was also based on the cultural insight that formal wedding cards are still being delivered by hand today in Pakistan.

The entry video tells us that 21% of Pakistani brides are girls under the age of 18.and almost five million are under the age of 15.

It adds: To generate support for passing a law to protect children from this harmful practice, UN Women collaborated with leaders and decision-makers to get people to imagine what it would be like if a child were to design a card to invite them to her wedding Its backed my music that sounds almost like a prayer.

The wedding invites are heart-touching reminders that childhood needs to be protected and cherished, the ad tells us.

The cards were mailed to each member of the National Assembly of Pakistan.

Members of Parliament got the message and held the wedding cards up in meetings with other legislators, asking them to join in the fight against child marriage.

In a landmark judgment on March 7, 2023, the Federal Islamic Court ruled that a minimum marriage age of 18 is not against the laws of Islam, (which had been a major impediment to change) paving the way for the state to raise the minimum age.

"Weve proven that progress to end child marriage is possible. It requires unwavering support for vulnerable girls and families, said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell in a release. We must focus on keeping girls in school and making sure they have economic opportunities."

Equally moving, the title of the video, Child Wedding Cards was scrawled by hand by a kid under 10.

The video ends with Join us to #StopChild Marriage.

So the Grand Prix for Good not only went to a campaign that did well, but will continue to do well in aiding the lives of girls in Pakistan for the coming generations.

Thats better than good.
by Ray Schultz , June 18, 2024

Bloomberg Media provided robust sessions during Day 2 of its Good Business programming at BOBO Bistro in Cannes.

In one session, titled, Balancing Speed and Responsibility: AI and Marketing in 2024," speakers said marketers must understand the technology, according to a summary of the event provided by Bloomberg.

Doug Martin, chief brand and disruptive growth officer at General Mills, stated that its no longer possible to be a successful CMO without having a close relationship with your CTO.

But Martin and others cautioned against rushing things.

Oliver Parker, VP global generative AI for Google Cloud, said, It's okay to fail, but added that brands are 12-24 months into adapting to AI in the workplace and companies are looking for an outcome to the tests that have been done. The time has come to use the data on offer to supercharge personalization, Parker added.

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In another session titled, Women Leadership in Male-Dominated Industries, Bloombergs Anne Kawalerski shared research projecting it will take at least until 2032 to achieve gender parity across all S&P 500 boardrooms.

Carla Zakhem-Hassan, chief marketing officer at JP Morgan Chase, recalled the times she was the only woman in a room with hundreds of men, and said that its hard for even the most confident of [women] to not be overwhelmed by that.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, June 19, 2024

Reddit sees a massive shift upending traditional search methods to make way for new ones as younger users spend more time online -- despite the efforts of Google and Bing to push artificial intelligence (AI) into their respective search engines and promising a world where technology puts information at the fingertips of consumers.

Data from a recent survey released today at Cannes Festival of Creativity suggests this change will prompt traditional engines like Google and Bing to lose users as younger demographics such as Gen Z rely more on social media to validate purchases.

Search engines' reliance on content is one of the biggest challenges affecting the change. With 61% of Gen Z and 62% of all internet users stressing the need for improved reliability of information.

Ranking second, 44% of Gen Z and 48% of all internet users say they want a more dependable yet simplified search experience that eliminates the hard work to find relevant information.

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Authentic human content is one reason that Reddit has grown so much, so consumers are adding a step to validate the potential purchase, says Rob Gaige, head of global insights at Reddit. They want content thats hyper-specific tailored to questions in a way no search algorithms could, he said.

Gen Z is particularly sensitive to inaccurate information and the lack of reviews, reflecting their desire for trustworthy research experiences. Some 65% of survey participants said reliability of information on search engines needs to improve.

Many younger consumers are turning to social media to solve these problems. Weary of traditional product research methods, they want brands to make the first move.

Rather than dig through pages of results, information about products and services serve-up in social media feeds even before users recognize a need for them is having a major impact.

Most Gen Zers began their relationship with the mobile phone and camera when they were very young, he said. They are beyond digital natives. As they have come of age in social media, algorithms have trained them to give them what they want before they knew they wanted it.

In 2023, 51% of Gen Z in North America said they use social media to discover new brands and products, up from 35% in 2018.

For Gen Z, search has become a laborious process, increasingly loaded with paid-for results. With more than 60% of internet users stressing the need for improved reliability of information, consumers want a more dependable yet simplified search experience which takes the hard work away from them. Products that rank down the search query page many times land on subsequent pages forcing those searching for information to really search.

Gen Z does not give trust lightly when it comes to product research tools. Traditional and community-driven sources that serve opinions from real, knowledgeable people have more credibility than other digital platforms where advertising or sponsored influencers form a central part of the user experience.

Promotional content in the search experience undermines trust. Some 49% of all internet users believe there are too many ads and sponsored content in search results, with 47% saying they receive irrelevant results.

Gen Z also want curated personalized recommendations. This is prompting a decline in product discovery on search engines.

Overall, 37% say they receive inaccurate or misleading information, compared with 42% of Gen Z. Lack of review and customer testimonials hit home with Gen Z. They look for truthful recommendations as a way to make decisions. Some 36% of Gen Z think promotional content undermines search results, compared with 27% overall.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, June 19, 2024

A new Mississippi law that prohibits minors from creating social media accounts without parental permission is justified by the need to protect young people from the dark side of the web.

That's according to Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, who is opposing the tech industry's request to block enforcement of the new statute.

The Internet has a dark side, Fitch writes in papers filed Tuesday with U.S. District Court Judge Halil Ozerden in the Southern District of Mississippi. It provides a ready forum for an astonishing array of harmful conduct -- particularly conduct that inflicts concrete, life-altering, and at times life-ending harms on children.

Fitch adds that the new law, slated to take effect July 1, makes it harder for predators to gain access to minors and prey on them online by making it harder for minors to participate in online platforms that are dangerous.

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The statute requires digital services providers, including social media platforms, to verify all users' ages, and prohibits minors from creating social media accounts, without parental permission.

The Mississippi law also requires social platforms to prevent or mitigate minors' exposure to harmful material -- defined as including material that promotes or facilitates eating disorders, substance abuse, sexual abuse and online bullying.

The measure applies to websites that allow users to create profiles and socially interact, but has exemptions for employment related sites and sites that primarily offer news, sports, commerce, online video games and content curated by the service provider.

NetChoice claimed in a lawsuit filed earlier this month that the law violates the First Amendment for numerous reasons, including that it amounts to unconstitutional governmental censorship.

In short, the act requires covered websites to monitor and censor speech, much of which is protected by the First Amendment, potentially even including Romeo and Juliet and The Bell Jar, NetChoice wrote in its petition.

Fitch counters that NetChoice is misinterpreting the law.

The measure calls for a strategy to address material that 'promotes' or 'facilitates' listed harm, Fitch writes, adding that no reasonable person would interpret that provision in a way that requires companies to block a post that merely discusses, addresses, or depicts eating disorders, drug abuse, violence and other harms set out in the statute.

NetChoice also argued that the parental consent provision violates teens' right to access content.

In 2011, the Supreme Court struck down a California law that banned the sale of violent video games to minors, without parental consent.

No doubt a State possesses legitimate power to protect children from harm ... but that does not include a free-floating power to restrict the ideas to which children may be exposed, Justice Antonin Scalia wrote for the majority in that case.

Mississippi isn't alone in attempting to regulate teens' use of social media. Lawmakers in Arkansas, Utah, Ohio, California and New York have also recently passed measures that would restrict how social media services serve content to minors.

NetChoice previously obtained injunctions prohibiting enforcement of the law in Arkansas, Ohio and California.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, June 19, 2024

Siding against Google, a federal judge has ruled that the company must face claims that it wrongly collected personal data from smartphone users under the age of 13.

The decision, issued Tuesday by U.S. District Court Judge P. Casey Pitts in the Northern District of California, stems from a complaint filed last year by parents of six young children who allegedly downloaded children's apps from Android's Play Store -- including apps developed by Tiny Lab Productions, such as Fun Kid Racing and Monster Truck Racing.

Those apps were designated by Google as Designed for Families, a now deprecated program that required participating developers to certify compliance with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act. That law prohibits app developers from collecting personal data, including device identifiers, from children younger than 13 without their parents' consent.

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The plaintiffs, led by California resident Jen Turner, alleged in a class-action complaint that Google's AdMob wrongly collected smartphone data from those apps, and that Google should have known that the data was coming from children.

Google knowingly and intentionally collected personal information without parental consent to track and profile the children using these apps and target them with highly lucrative behavioral advertising, the complaint alleged.

Among other claims, the plaintiffs alleged that Google engaged in intrusion upon seclusion -- a privacy claim that can be brought in California, and that involves highly offensive conduct. The complaint also accused Google of violating consumer protection measures in California, New York and Florida.

Google urged Pitts to dismiss the lawsuit at an early stage, arguing that the claims were untimely because it banned Tiny Lab from the Play Store in 2018.

Google contended the statutes of limitations for nearly all claims in the lawsuit ranged from one to four years -- meaning that any claims arising from activity that occurred before June of 2019 were time-barred.

Attorneys for Turner and the others countered that even if Google banned Tiny Lab, AdMob allegedly continued through 2021 to collect data from children who had downloaded Tiny Lab's apps. Counsel also argued that Google allegedly collected data from children's apps developed by companies other than Tiny Lab.

Pitts rejected Google's argument, at least for now.

Because plaintiffs allege that unlawful tracking and advertising was occurring through Android apps at least until 2021, defendants cannot establish, from the face of the complaint, that plaintiffs claims are time-barred, he wrote.

Google additionally argued that the complaint should be dismissed on the grounds that the claims were covered by the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, which doesn't authorize lawsuits by individuals.

Pitts rejected Google's argument on that point as well, noting that the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled last year that the federal children's privacy law doesn't prohibit individuals from suing over parallel claims rooted in state laws.

Google previously settled a children's privacy lawsuit brought by former New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas. He alleged that Tiny Lab, based in Lithuania, illegally gleans personal data from young users who download games like Fun Kid Racing, and that Google's AdMob was among the tech companies that facilitated the data transfers.

Google resolved that matter by agreeing to $3.8 million and create a new fund, the "Google New Mexico Kids Initiative."

The deal in that case also required Google to require Play Store apps to implement age-screening techniques to avoid collecting data from children under 13. Google began doing so in 2019, soon after Balderas sued the company.
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  Trusted Source

New Study Suggests Cancer Drug Could Be Used to Target Protein Connection That Spurs Parkinson's Disease



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Approximately one million individuals in the United States and 10 million individuals globally are currently living with Parkinsons disease. #neurodegenerativedisorder #parkinsonsdisease #medindia

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Aplp1 interacts with Lag3 to facilitate transmission of pathologic -synuclein



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New Study Suggests Cancer Drug Could Be Used to Target Protein Connection That Spurs Parkinson's Disease - (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2024/06/new-study-suggests-cancer-drug-could-be-used-to-target-protein-connection-that-spurs-parkinsons-disease) Aplp1 interacts with Lag3 to facilitate transmission of pathologic -synuclein - (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-49016-3)

In a recent study, researchers have discovered a potential new biological target related to amyloid  precursor-like protein 1 (Aplp1), a cell surface protein, that promotes the progression of Parkinson's disease triggered by alpha-synuclein. This study was conducted by researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine using genetically modified mice.The research results were made public on May 31 in the scientific journal. The results disclose the mechanism by which Aplp1 interacts with Lag3 (Lymphocyte activation gene-3), a cell surface receptor. This interaction plays a crucial role in facilitating the spread of harmful alpha-synuclein proteins to brain cells, which are characteristic indicators of Parkinsons disease ).The researchers emphasize that Lag3 is currently the focus of a combination cancer medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This drug uses antibodies to educate the human immune system on identifying and eliminating specific targets.The associate professor of neurology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a member of the Institute for Cell Engineering, Xiaobo Mao, Ph.D., states, Now that we know how Aplp1 and Lag3 interact, we have a new way of understanding how alpha-synuclein contributes to the disease progression of Parkinsons disease,.Mao further added, Our findings also suggest that targeting this interaction with drugs could significantly slow the progression of Parkinsons disease and other neurodegenerative diseases .The research study was a collaboration of Mao with Ted Dawson, M.D., Ph.D., who holds the Leonard and Madlyn Abramson Professorship in Neurodegenerative Diseases at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and serves as the director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Cell Engineering. In addition, Valina Dawson, Ph.D., and Hanseok Ko, Ph.D., both professors of neurology at the School of Medicine and affiliated with the Institute for Cell Engineering, also contributed to the research ().A number of extensive studies have consistently demonstrated that misfolded alpha-synuclein proteins can aggregate and create protein deposits. These proteins then travel from one brain cell to another, resulting in the death of the cells responsible for producing dopamine, a crucial neurotransmitter. This phenomenon, which has been identified by Johns Hopkins researchers, leads to the progression of Parkinson's disease through a form of "programmed" cell death. This process, referred to as parthanatos, derived from the Greek word for "death," ultimately leads to impairments in movement, emotional regulation, and cognitive function.According to the researchers, the interaction between Aplp1 and Lag3 on the surface of brain cells allows the uptake of alpha-synuclein aggregates, which ultimately results in the death of these cells.In the studies conducted on mice in 2016 and 2021, the team led by Mao and Dawson discovered the involvement of Lag3 in the binding process with alpha-synuclein proteins, which leads to the progression of Parkinson's disease. Nevertheless, these studies also revealed that another protein played a partial role in the cell's uptake of misfolded alpha-synuclein.Valina Dawson states, Our work previously demonstrated that Lag3 wasnt the only cell surface protein that helped neurons absorb alpha-synuclein, so we turned to Aplp1 in our most recent experiments,.In order to ascertain the role of Aplp1 in the spread of detrimental alpha-synuclein proteins, researchers used mice that were genetically modified to lack either Aplp1 or Lag3, or both Aplp1 and Lag3. The absence of Aplp1 and Lag3 in mice resulted in a significant reduction of 90% in the uptake of harmful alpha-synuclein protein by cells. Subsequently, when mice were administered the Lag3 antibody, it was observed that this medication also hindered the interaction between Aplp1 and Lag3. As a result, healthy brain cells were no longer capable of absorbing the clumps of alpha-synuclein that cause disease.The scientists suggest that the Lag3 antibody nivolumab/relatlimab, an FDA-approved medication for cancer therapy in 2022, may have the potential to hinder the absorption of alpha-synuclein by cells.Ted Dawson states, The anti-Lag3 antibody was successful in preventing further spread of alpha-synuclein seeds in the mouse models and exhibited better efficacy than Lag3-depletion because of Aplp1s close association with Lag3,.Mao stated that this study has a strong possibility for treating other neurodegenerative disorders lacking effective treatments. In the case of Alzheimers disease , characterized by memory loss, mood swings, and muscle issues, tau proteins undergo misfolding and aggregation within neurons, aggravating the disease. Mao suggests that in Alzheimer's research, scientists could investigate the possibility of utilizing the same antibody to target Lag3, the protein which also binds with the tau protein associated with dementia.After the successful utilization of the Lag3 antibody in mice, Ted Dawson has expressed his intention to proceed with anti-Lag3 antibody trials in mice with Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. As a preventive measure, the researchers at Johns Hopkins are also exploring ways to prevent the diseased cells from releasing alpha-synuclein, which is responsible for causing the disease.Source-Medindia
Highlights: Rotovac is linked to a 1.6-fold increase in intussusception risk

Bharat Biotech refutes study findings, citing thorough safety evaluations

Emphasis on parental awareness and ongoing vigilance in vaccine programs

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Rotavirus vaccine in India faces controversy



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Rotovac and Its Potential Risks

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The risk of intussusception in infants may rise by 1.6 times with Rotovac. #medindia #vaccineawareness

The risk of intussusception in infants may rise by 1.6 times with Rotovac. #medindia #vaccineawareness

Bharat Biotechs Safety Assurance

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Rotavirus vaccine in India faces controversy - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3761026/)

Bharat Biotech's Rotovac, an indigenous rotavirus vaccine included in the Indian government's immunisation program, has recently come under scrutiny. A study reported by the Economic Times from thehas linked the vaccine to an increased risk of intussusception in infants ().Intussusception is a severe medical condition where a part of the intestine folds into an adjacent section. This can lead to severe complications, including bowel gangrene and potentially death if not treated immediately. It is crucial to understand this risk, especially in the context of widespread vaccination programs The study, co-authored by Jacob Puliyel, MD of the International Institute of Health Management Research, India, and Brian Hooker of Children's Health Defense, found a 1.6-fold increased risk of intussusception among infants vaccinated with Rotovac. This heightened risk was not detected in initial analyses, raising concerns about the vaccine's safety profile. Puliyel emphasized the importance of parents being aware of this risk since the symptoms of intussusception can resemble those of dysentery.Bharat Biotech reaffirmed the safety of Rotovac, highlighting that it is manufactured from human rotavirus strains, not animal origins. They criticized the recent study's methodology, claiming it deviated from established statistical plans, thereby questioning its validity. The company remains confident in the vaccines safety and efficacy.While Bharat Biotech stands by its product, the study underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and transparency in vaccination programs. It is essential for healthcare providers and parents to stay informed about potential risks associated with vaccines to make well-informed decisions for their children's health.The debate over Rotovacs safety highlights the complexities and challenges in vaccine safety monitoring. As research continues, it is vital to balance the benefits of widespread immunisation against potential risks, ensuring the well-being of all infants.Awareness is the first step toward ensuring our children's health and safety.Source-Medindia
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Rapid Tumor DNA Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid Accelerates Treatment of Central Nervous System Lymphoma



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Rapid #cerebrospinalfluid test slashes #braintumor diagnosis time. #medicalinnovation

Advances in Brain Cancer Diagnosis

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Rapid Tumor DNA Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid Accelerates Treatment of Central Nervous System Lymphoma - (https://ashpublications.org/blood/article/doi/10.1182/blood.2024023832/516189/Rapid-Tumor-DNA-Analysis-of-Cerebrospinal-Fluid)

A genetic test detecting brain cancer markers in cerebrospinal fluid reduces diagnostic time and eliminates the need for invasive biopsies. Researchers collaborated to develop TetRS, a rapid genotyping test identifying key mutations via lumbar puncture samples. Evaluated on 70 patients at Massachusetts General Hospital, TetRS identified mutations in 42% of cases, including primary and secondary CNS lymphomas, glioblastomas, and gliomas, as published in).Unlike other forms of cancer that might get diagnosed at an outpatient center, most brain tumors and spinal cord tumors get diagnosed in the hospital, where patients often present with rapidly progressive deficits. This means that speed is of the essence, said corresponding author Ganesh Shankar, MD, PhD, a neurosurgeon and neurosurgical director of biospecimen banking for the Department of Neurosurgery at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), a founding member of the Mass General Brigham healthcare system. Because of the test weve developed, patients are now being diagnosed and treated without brain biopsies, which has also resulted in decreased time to diagnosis from 10 days to 2 days.Shankar traces the origins of TetRS back almost a decade, to a time when researchers identified a handful of genes that were mutated in certain forms of brain cancer. In a paper published in 2015, the team showed that genetic mutations could be detected in tissue samples removed during surgery. The team further optimized TetRS and showed in 2021 that they could use the same approach on cerebrospinal fluid.The new study puts TetRS to the test in the real world, where patients may present to the Emergency Department with an abnormal lesion that could be from a tumor or could be from something else. The research team wanted to ensure that TetRS could help lead to an accurate diagnosis faster, without leaving any room for a false positive result.Shankar and colleagues designed TetRS to look for genetic signatures unique to brain cancer, including mutations in the MYD88, TERT promoter, IDH1, IDH2, BRAF and H3F3A genes. The team evaluated samples from 70 patients, 33 of whom were eventually diagnosed with neoplasms (abnormal tissue that can be benign or malignant). TetRS alone diagnosed six of the patients and, when combined with conventional methods, diagnosed an additional eight patients, for a total sensitivity of 42 percent. For the other 37 patients who were not diagnosed with neoplasms, TetRS returned zero false positives, for a specificity rate of 100 percent.Using the rapid genotyping test eliminated the need for surgical brain biopsies for seven patients and significantly accelerated time to treatment for them, from an average of 12 days down to an average of 3 days.The authors note that larger studies are needed to determine whether their findings are broadly applicable and what the clinical impact of earlier diagnosis and treatment will be for patients.TetRS has been implemented as a clinically available test across Mass General Brigham, and Mass General Brigham Pathology has received and evaluated patient samples from MGH, Brigham and Womens Hospital and many other sites around the country.By working together across pathology, neuro-oncology and neurosurgery teams, weve developed an innovative, collaborative way to improve patient care, said co-author Deborah Forst, MD, of the Mass General Cancer Center. The ability to rapidly detect tumor-related molecular variants in patients spinal fluid samples has allowed us to promptly draw diagnostic conclusions through less invasive testing and to initiate individualized and potentially life-saving chemotherapies in rapid fashion.Source-Eurekalert
Minister of Foreign Affairs, George Gerapetritis, will meet tomorrow, Thursday, June 20, at 12:00 pm, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, Enrique Manalo.



Following the expanded talks between the delegations, the two Ministers will deliver joint statements to the Press at 1:20 pm. A working lunch will follow.
The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration.

The U.S. military will continue to dwindle in size and diminish in quality if it does not fix its racism problem.

My husband has served nearly 20 years in the Marine Corps, and our family would gladly dedicate another decade of service if not for the racism I, his Asian-American wife, and his mixed-race children experience in the current military and political climate.

My spouse is highly skilled and experienced. He has 2,000 flight hours, top-level clearances and qualifications. He has mentored, instructed and led hundreds of others. He loves military service, yet he and others like him are leaving due to Congress' meddling. After decades of progress toward building a more equal nation and a military reflective of these American values, we see those gains evaporating.

Policymakers have come to use increasingly politicized antics to enforce an anti-pluralism agenda. For example, Republican senators continue to hold Air Force Col. Ben Jonsson's promotion hostage -- mirroring Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville's months-long military promotion blockade. Col. Jonsson simply encouraged his fellow officers to learn about modern-day racism -- knowledge that would strengthen leadership skills, and U.S. senators targeted him.

Congressional interference in the nonpartisan military promotions process has rippling consequences. Col. Jonsson's family life is in limbo between their current and future duty stations, without an anticipated move date -- medical care, education plans and the details of daily life remaining suspended.

Every level and rank is watching this drama unfold, wondering whether the military can function on the most basic level while partisan congressional members use the military as political pawns for their own agenda. Folks who care about upholding the military to a standard of operation and humanity, who care about morale and building trust among troops, who will speak out against something as basic and fact-based as racism, wonder whether they will be targeted next. Junior service members lose confidence in leadership. Many will hesitate to extend their time in service and not recommend this vocation to others, given what they've experienced.

I have been racially profiled by military gate guards, local law enforcement and random neighbors demanding extra verification that I am permitted to be in various locations more times than I can count. When my white husband traveled to our new duty station in advance for house hunting, local real-estate agents made racist remarks about people of color in certain neighborhoods, steering him instead to neighborhoods with all-white country clubs.

These examples are minuscule compared to the recent fatal shooting of Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson in Florida. They all factor into my family's consideration of safety while serving in the military. The Department of Defense (DoD) lacks sufficient policies or procedures to support families of color; our current Congress wants to keep it that way.

In 2016, 55% of service members would recommend military service to our children; today, only 32% would. Moreover, twice as many of us (31%) are unlikely or would not recommend military service at all today, compared to 2016 (15%).

Approximately 80% of service members hail from military families themselves. The military depends on veterans to recruit future generations of service members. Further, the military depends on retention to maintain expertise necessary to fight wars and save lives, not to mention save on training costs. So these trends beg the question: Who will recruit, enter and make up our military in future years?

The ones who feel safest and will remain in the military are the ones who cater to these partisan attacks. Over time, these political games will reshape the U.S. military's internal culture; rather than a broad workplace that upholds respect, equality and fair treatment, the military will shrink into a haven for prejudicial beliefs instead.

The military will not be able to recruit or retain the best talent. The most skilled will leave for more functional and less toxic institutions, my family included.

Attacks on crucial DoD programs indicate to us that certain politicians will sabotage any of the military's efforts toward self-improvement. In 2023, the House of Representatives passed a version of the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with 18 provisions targeting diversity and inclusion initiatives within the DoD; two provisions became law. Congress is forcing our military to swing away from reality and progress.

Military families of color make up nearly half of our armed forces. We exist. We dedicate our lives to this country. And we experience racism within the military and the surrounding civilian community in which we live. We voice how these experiences impact the workplace climate and our quality of life to positively shape this community for future generations. We propose solutions at every opportunity, like in NDAA amendments.

We consider racial/ethnic discrimination when deciding whether to remain in service. We evaluate whether our leaders and the institution defend our rights and regard our safety, or if they will needlessly endanger us or ignore our concerns.

There are virtually zero programs or protocols that address racial and ethnic safety concerns of military families, and certain members of Congress aim to maintain this paucity. We don't get to choose where we live. We rely on the DoD to understand these needs and support us. The DoD must either protect against these high-risk situations or respond deftly when these dangers arise, but it does neither systemically. Congress' trend toward disempowering protective DoD programs leaves all military families less safe, and it causes families like mine to leave the service to protect ourselves.

If Congress and the DoD want to fix the military's recruitment, it must face the reality that the service must be a more equitable and less racist institution. Congress can and must pass better policies through the NDAA -- policies that, at the very least, would improve data and transparency for families as they navigate safety concerns within the assignments process, for example. These changes would fortify a stronger, better, smarter military that retains and recruits the best folks across all identities.

Congress must do its job and enable the Department of Defense to meet the needs of today; our military and our country depend on it.

Khiet Ho is a licensed clinical social worker and public health professional advocating for military families at Secure Families Initiative. She is a 17-year Marine Corps spouse.
TikTok has become an internet sensation in recent years with millions of users worldwide creating and sharing short videos that are engaging and entertaining to watch. However, as it grows in popularity, some have called for its ban from the United States.







(When Is Tiktok Getting Banned In America)

TikTok was first launched in the United States in 2017, but due to concerns about data privacy and copyright issues, it was eventually banned from many platforms. The ban had been met with widespread protests and criticism from the American internet community, who argued that TikTok infringes on their right to use their own videos without permission.

Despite the ban, TikTok has continued to grow in popularity around the world, and new features such as live streaming and collaboration have helped to keep the platform alive. As with all social media platforms, TikTok has faced challenges in the past, including concerns about data privacy and security.

In recent months, the United States government has stepped up efforts to ban TikTok from further usage. President Joe Biden, during his speech at the State of the Union Address, declared that TikTok is a danger to American childrens mental health and suggested that the ban be suspended until a full understanding of the risks posed by the platform can be reached.

Despite the ban, TikTok continues to thrive in the United States, with millions of users using the platform to connect with others and share content. Some argue that while TikTok may not have been the best choice for them in terms of data privacy and security, it remains a valuable tool for breaking down barriers to communication and promoting creativity.







(When Is Tiktok Getting Banned In America)

As we continue to navigate the complexities of technology and the internet, TikTok is likely to remain a powerful force in the coming years. While the ban may put some people off, the appeal of the platform continues to drive growth and innovation. Whether its through the creation of new features or innovative uses of technology, TikTok remains an important player in the digital landscape and will continue to shape the way we communicate and interact with each other.
ChatGPT is a language model created by Google to assist humans in generating human-like responses to various tasks. One common use case for chatbots is creating resumes for job seekers. With the help of ChatGPT, it can generate resumes that are tailored to the specific job requirements of each candidate.







(How To Use Chat Gpt To Make A Resume)

Heres an example of how to use ChatGPT to create a resume:

A resume for a software engineer would look something like this:

* Name: [Your Name]

* Address: [Address]

* Phone Number: [Phone Number]

* Email: [Email]

What did I do?

1. First, I imported my resume into ChatGPT.

2. Then, I inputted some information about myself, such as my education, work experience, and skills.

3. After that, I provided some examples of how my skills were applied in previous jobs or projects.

4. Finally, I included a link to my LinkedIn profile.

* This process was very straightforward and didnt require much creativity on my part.

Benefits of using ChatGPT for resume creation:

One of the main benefits of using ChatGPT for resume creation is its speed and efficiency. Unlike human recruiters who may spend hours reviewing resumes manually, ChatGPT can generate resumes quickly and accurately based on their query parameters.

Another benefit is that ChatGPT can handle a large volume of resumes at once, which can save time and improve the overall user experience.

ChatGPTs ability to learn from past experiences can also be beneficial when creating resumes. By analyzing the feedback from previous clients and personalization them based on their interests and preferences, ChatGPT can produce that is more effective and engaging.

Furthermore, ChatGPT can be used to adapt to different industries and job roles. For instance, it can generate resumes for engineering professionals working in the healthcare industry, or technology professionals working in finance.

Conclusion:







(How To Use Chat Gpt To Make A Resume)

Overall, using ChatGPT to create resumes is a powerful tool that can greatly increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your resume production process. Its a great way to save time, improve the user experience, and make sure that your resume is tailored to the specific job requirements of each candidate. If youre interested in learning more about ChatGPT for resume creation, feel free to visit their website and explore their API documentation.
ChatGPT is an AI language model created by Google that has revolutionized the way we communicate with each other in recent years. As more people become proficient in using this tool, its easy to see why many experts are excited about its potential for future updates.







(When Will Chat Gpt Be Updated)

The conversation began in early 2021 when ChatGPT was first released to the public. Initially, it was intended to be a simple chatbot designed to assist users with basic tasks like generating stories and answering questions. But over time, the model continued to evolve and expand, becoming more sophisticated and capable of understanding natural language.

One of the key features of ChatGPT is its ability to generate human-like text. This means that even if you dont have a specific question or topic in mind, you can still have a conversation with the AI generated text. Its especially useful for users who want to explore different perspectives on a particular topic, or who simply want to share their thoughts and ideas.

Another interesting feature of ChatGPT is its ability to learn from previous interactions. The model uses a technique called generative adversarial networks (GANs) to create new responses based on feedback from the user. This allows ChatGPT to improve over time as it learns from its interactions with other models and users.

There have been some concerns about the safety of ChatGPT, particularly around its use as a speech recognition device. Some people argue that the technology has been used in ways that may not align with ethical standards. For example, there have been concerns that ChatGPT could be used to track individual conversations and identify biases in user data.

Despite these concerns, however, its clear that ChatGPT is already achieving remarkable results. According to data from the Natural Language Toolkit project, the model was used in approximately 4 billion conversations in 2021, which is an impressive number for a machine learning algorithm. It also used in at least 70% of all text-based chats that were sent through the social media platform Twitter.







(When Will Chat Gpt Be Updated)

Overall, ChatGPT is likely to continue evolving and improving in the years to come. With continued development and refinement of its algorithms, its likely that this powerful AI will continue to revolutionize the way we communicate with one another in a variety of contexts. And while there may be some concerns about its safety, there is no reason to doubt its capabilities.
TODAY: The Marlins have outrighted Emanuel to Triple-A after he cleared waivers, as per Emanuels MLB.com profile page. There isnt yet any word as to whether or not Emanuel has accepted the assignment.

JUNE 19: The Marlins announced Wednesday morning that left-hander Kent Emanuel has been designated for assignment. His spot on the roster will go to right-hander Yonny Chirinos, whose previously announced promotion to the big league roster is now official. Chirinos will start todays game for the Fish.

Emanuel, 32, was selected to the Marlins big league roster for a second time this season over the weekend. He tossed 2 1/3 shutout innings across two appearances during this most recent stint. The former Astros, Phillies and Pirates farmhand made two more appearances with Miami back in April and was hit hard. Overall, hes surrendered seven earned runs in 8 1/3 major league innings this season. Thats a far cry from the 2.55 ERA he notched in a 17 2/3-inning big league debut with the 2021 Astros (the team that originally selected him in the third round of the 2013 draft).

Things havent gone much better for Emanuel in Triple-A Jacksonville. Hes made nine appearances, four of them starts, and totaled 30 innings of 6.60 ERA ball. The 64 UNC product has fanned 19% of his opponents against a tidy 5.8% walk rate in that time. Its the sixth season in which Emanuel has logged time at the Triple-A level. Overall, he owns a 5.18 ERA, a 20% strikeout rate and a 6.1% walk rate in 391 frames there.

Within the next week, Emanuel will either be traded, placed on outright waivers or released. Hes been outrighted in the past, so if he goes unclaimed on waivers hed have the right to reject an outright assignment in favor of free agency.
The Tigers have agreed to a minor league pact with free agent right-hander Eli Villalobos, per the teams transaction log at MLB.com. He was designated for assignment by the Marlins last month and rejected what wouldve been his second career outright assignment in favor of free agency. Villalobos hasnt pitched in nearly a month now, so Detroit assigned him to their Rookie-level minor league affiliate to ramp back up before presumably heading to their Triple-A club in Toledo.

Villalobos, 27 next week, made his big league debut with the Fish earlier this season and tossed 4 1/3 innings. He allowed one run on three hits and a pair of walks with three strikeouts in that generally sharp first MLB effort. Hes also logged 18 innings in Triple-A Jacksonville, recording a 4.50 ERA with a strong 26.5% strikeout rate but ugly 13.3% walk rate. Statcast measured his average fastball at 93.3 mph during that brief MLB run, and he also worked off a low-80s splitter and mid-80s slider.

While Villalobos has never ranked as a high-end prospect in Miamis system, the former 14th-rounder was selected to the 40-man roster to shield him from the Rule 5 Draft on the heels of a 2022 season in which he posted a 2.86 ERA with a 32.7% strikeout rate (101 punchouts overall) against a 9.4% walk rate in 78 2/3 innings between Double-A and Triple-A. Hes since bounced to the Pirates organization and then right back to the Marlins via a pair of DFAs and waiver claims.

Lack of prospect pedigree notwithstanding, Villalobos has sub-4.00 earned run averages and strikeout rates north of 25% in two seasons of action at the Double-A and Triple-A levels. He walked a calamitous 18% of his opponents in Triple-A last season but has dished out a free pass to a less-alarming (but still too high) 12.8% of his opponents between Triple-A and the big leagues this season. Hell be a project for the Tigers but could be a near-term bullpen option for them if he can continue to move past last years career-worst command issues.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  A small parade marched Wednesday along Eastern Avenue towards Dickinson Buffer Park, where hundreds more gathered to commemorate Juneteenth on June 19.

The celebration is about letting the youth know its OK to be Black, said Jewellynne Richardson or Mama Jewell, who organized the Grand Rapids Community Junior Juneteenth Parade. Were proud, and we are to say it out loud.

Juneteenth is the newest federal holiday. It recognizes when in 1865, 2 1/2 years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, slaves in Galveston, Texas, learned from Union troops they were free.

The junior addition to the events name comes from Richardsons drive to involve the newer generation in the celebration. Its about the young people knowing how they should be celebrated and to be the ones who write the narrative, " Richardson said.

Several kids marched in the parade and served as color guard, carrying Pan-African flags, which symbolize Black liberation and unity.

Richardson is also the founder of the West Michigan Jewels of Africa, a group that performs traditional African drumming and dance. The group filled the park with rhythmic beats from their drums. Richardson handed out drums and shakers to help the crowd join in.

Richardson also led the crowd in singing a rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing, which is considered the Black National Anthem.

A part of the celebration was a memorial for Richardsons sister, Rhae-Ann Booker, who died in February. She served as the first vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion for the University of Michigan Health-West.

Richardson remembers her sister actively working to bring African culture to the Grand Rapids community. Booker emceed the Juneteenth event last year, despite dealing with the effects of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

We wanted the community to celebrate her life with us, Richardson said.

Richardson said she and her family have been involved the Juneteenth event for eight years.

One of the biggest changes Richardson saw after the day became federally recognized is the commercialization of the holiday. Richardson believes meaning of the day is missed when trinkets and fireworks become the focus.

I want to know when people leave here, they know about their history, Richardson stated. Do they know that they come from some of the greatest people in all the world?

The fourth annual Justice 4 All Juneteenth festival also took place later in the evening in downtown Grand Rapids.

Several other Michigan cities hosted events to recognize the holiday.
KALAMAZOO, MI  A Kalamazoo County judge has agreed to hear the cases of two defendants charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of their infant child together.

Kalamazoo County Circuit Judge Paul Bridenstine joined together the cases of Jose Roldan Jr. and Ladesha Powe during a Tuesday, June 18, motion hearing. The two are both charged with the death of their 6-month-old daughter, Faith, who died Wednesday, Dec. 13, in the couples Davis Street home.
One of the reasons the Detroit Red Wings unexpectedly moved defenseman Filip Hronek just before the 2023 trade deadline was the cost of re-signing him a year later.

They got an idea of what it might have taken Tuesday, when Hronek signed an eight-year, $58 million extension with the Vancouver Canucks. It has an average annual value of $7.25 million, a significant bump from the three-year, $13.2 million contract he signed with the Red Wings in 2021 ($4.4 million AAV).

The Red Wings traded Hronek to the Canucks late last season for first- and second-round picks in 2023.

They used the first-round selection on skilled defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka (17th overall) and used the second-round pick to trade down four spots and take defenseman Brady Cleveland. They selected left wing Kevin Bicker with the fifth-round pick they acquired in that move.

Hronek, 26, was Detroits third selection, 53rd overall in the second round, in 2016.

He racked up a career-high 48 points (five goals, 43 assists) and was plus-33 in 81 games this season, mostly paired with Quinn Hughes, the likely Norris Trophy winner.

Hronek could have become a restricted free agent on July 1.

Although we had his rights for another year, I think this was important for our team knowing his contract number leading forward and also a younger defenseman on the right side that we feel that we can continue to work with, Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said in a statement. I think there is more to come there, so it definitely was important for us to get Filip locked up here, and when he expressed his interest of wanting to stay in Vancouver and be part of this group for long term, we were extremely pleased to get it over the finish line here.

Alvin added, I believe that he has another level to get to and I believe that hes capable of getting to another level and finding his consistency more. I think he' a very competitive player, skates well. He moves the puck well and he is a guy that fits well in our dressing room here.
KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived here Tuesday for an official visit to Malaysia, the third and last leg of his eight-day tour that has taken him to New Zealand and Australia.

Li said upon arrival that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, China-Malaysia relations have maintained sound development, as strategic mutual trust has been continuously consolidated, cultural and people-to-people exchanges have become ever closer, and high-quality Belt and Road cooperation has yielded fruitful results, which have brought tangible benefits to the two peoples and contributed to regional peace and development.

Li noted that last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reached an important consensus on jointly building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, opening a new chapter in China-Malaysia relations.

China is willing to work hand in hand with Malaysia, taking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties as a new starting point to further strengthen the alignment of development strategies, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, enhance civilization exchanges and mutual learning, and continuously push forward the building of the China-Malaysia community with a shared future, so as to make greater contributions to peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the region and worldwide, Li said.

Li arrived in Kuala Lumpur after concluding an official visit to Australia and holding the ninth China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

During his stay in Malaysia, Li will have talks with Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar and Prime Minister Anwar, and attend an event commemorating the 50th anniversary.
Abhishek Sahu covers HR and Education (Careers) at Moneycontrol. He can be reached at Abhishek.Sahu@nw18.com and @Abhishek44sahu.
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1/9 In today's fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and depression are increasingly common. Yoga offers a powerful tool to combat these challenges by promoting relaxation, mental clarity, and overall well-being. Research has shown that regular yoga practice can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety , depression, and stress while improving sleep quality. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system, yoga helps the body release feel-good hormones like dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins, creating a sense of peace and relaxation. Here are eight yoga poses to help calm the mind and rejuvenate the body listed by Yoga practitioners Bhavika and Ashmin Munjal. This husband-wife duo are practising yoga for over 15 years and has seen their life changing for good and finding perspective.

2/9 Childs Pose (Balasana): Childs Pose is a gentle forward bend that stretches the lower back and hips, helping to reduce fatigue and stress. Begin by sitting on your heels with your knees hip-width apart. Extend your arms forward on the floor and rest your torso between your thighs. Breathe deeply and hold the pose for several minutes, allowing your body to relax completely (Image: Canva)

3/9 Legs Up the Wall Pose (Viparita Karani): This pose is excellent for relieving stress and fatigue in the legs. Lie on your back with your hips close to a wall and extend your legs up against it. Your body should form a 90-degree angle. Close your eyes, place your arms by your sides with palms up, and take deep breaths. This position helps improve circulation and calms the nervous system (Image: Canva)

4/9 Supported Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana): Supported Bridge Pose promotes relaxation by opening the chest and relieving tension in the lower back. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your pelvis and place a block or pillow under your sacrum. Rest your weight on the support and relax your arms by your sides. Breathe deeply and hold for 5-10 minutes (Image: Canva)

5/9 Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): This pose stretches the hamstrings and lower back, helping to release tension and improve circulation. Sit with your legs extended straight in front of you. Hinge at your hips and reach for your feet, allowing your spine to lengthen. Hold the pose for several breaths, focusing on the stretch and your breath (Image: Canva)

6/9 Wide-Legged Forward Bend (Prasarita Padottanasana): This inversion pose energizes the body and increases blood flow to the brain. Stand with your feet wide apart and toes slightly inward. Bend forward from your hips, bringing your head towards the floor and hands under your shoulders. Hold for several breaths, then slowly return to standing. This pose helps relieve stress and stretches the hamstrings (Image: Canva)

7/9 Lizard Pose (Utthan Pristhasana): Lizard Pose opens the hips and strengthens the hamstrings, improving flexibility and reducing stress. Start in a downward-facing dog position, then step your right foot outside your right hand. Lower your left knee to the floor and bring your forearms to the ground. Hold for a few breaths and repeat on the other side (Image: Canva)

8/9 Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana): Sphinx Pose stretches the chest, shoulders, and abdomen, helping to relieve stress and improve posture. Lie on your belly with your elbows under your shoulders and forearms flat on the floor. Lift your chest and head, keeping your lower body grounded. Hold for several breaths, then release (Image: Canva)
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BPEA Credit hits first close of its Rs 1,500-cr Select Short Term Income Fund
Adrija Chatterjee is an Assistant Editor at Moneycontrol. She has been tracking and reporting on finance and trade ministries for over eight years.
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At least 50 Mumbai hospitals, 41 airports across India receive multiple bomb threats
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PM Modi to lead yoga day celebrations from Srinagar on June 21
SHANGHAI, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Deutsche Bank has recently made substantial investments in enhancing its operational capacity in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Ole Gerdau, chief operating officer at Deutsche Bank China, told Xinhua in an interview on Monday. Deutsche Bank has a storied history marked by the establishment of its first international branch in Shanghai. Today, it is an international industry leader recognized as a preeminent financial institution among foreign banks in China, boasting an extensive array of licenses and a commitment to delivering financial services to a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations and financial entities. Gerdau underscored the pivotal role of China's economic liberalization and the RMB's global ascendancy as cornerstones of Deutsche Bank's strategic vision in China. "We are dedicated to our clients' lasting success and financial security at home and abroad. And for many of our large multinational clients, China is the most important overseas market," he said. Testament to its deep dedication to China, the bank has embarked on a robust investment trajectory aimed at bolstering its operational and technological capabilities to better cater to its local clients. It has notably expanded its footprint in Tianjin and brought on board five senior sector analysts to delve into greater China's key growth sectors, including the renewables and utilities, consumer discretionary, and automation and industrial sectors. Deutsche Bank is positive about China's economic growth, elevating its GDP growth projection for 2024 by half a percentage point in April, with the revised figure at 5.2 percent. This anticipated growth is set to be propelled by a resurgence in exports and the intensification of fiscal spending. Gerdau believes that, despite the Chinese economy's growth rate moving away from double-digit figures, its large size ensures it will continue to contribute significantly to global economic growth. He also noted that China's emergence as an innovative economy has been nothing short of remarkable, particularly in sectors such as electric vehicles, electronic payments and e-commerce, where it offers an unparalleled consumer experience. Deutsche Bank is eager to forge cooperation with indigenous fintech firms, fostering a symbiotic relationship of learning and growth, he said. The gradual opening of China's market has created numerous possibilities for the bank. "Whenever there was another step of opening, there were lots of opportunities coming out of it. We are constantly looking for more opportunities," he said, highlighting the bank's key role of supporting large Chinese corporations and institutional Chinese investors in achieving their international aspirations.
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Among the south Asia countries, Bangladesh (99), Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan are ahead of India, with only Pakistan (145) behind. Perhaps the most telling

India emerges among the lowest global economies on the gender gap index compiled by the World Economic Forum -- at 129 among 146. At right at the bottom comes war torn Sudan, whereas countries like Afghanistan and Russia are not even considered as they dont make available the necessary data.

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If you're a Disney adult, a kid at heart or just a parent in despo need of holiday ideas, you'll probably be stoked to hear there's a bunch more Disney cruises coming to Aotearoa.

The 2025/2026 season of 'Magic at Sea' sailings has just been released, and it features a brand new 10-night Trans-Tasman voyage from Auckland to Sydney, stopping at five iconic Kiwi destinations for the first time ever.

Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch and Fiordland National Park will all be visited by the epic cruise line, which is packed with Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars characters, shows and themed dining.

The 'Disney Wonder' has no less than 11 decks and features a multi-level replica of Andy's Room from 'Toy Story' and a Goofy's Pool - but there are adults only areas and a spa too, don't worry.

There are live shows like Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, southern cooking and live jazz music at Tiana's Place and even fireworks at sea, as well as heaps of daily activities for kids and grown ups.

If you're after less of a commitment, there are shorter three night cruises, and for the most eager of beavers, there are sailings starting as early as October this year.

There are even special Christmas sailings from November 24th 2024 through till January 3rd 2025, where they'll deck the Disney halls in festive decor.

Prices for sailings departing from Auckland start at around NZD $1,900 for 2 adults for 2 nights at sea.
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Andrew Roberto was raised his whole life on Saipan. He graduated from Saipan Southern High School, holds a degree from Northern Marianas College, and a BA in English from the University of Guam. He once worked for KUAM, UNO Magazine, and the Guam Daily Post.
In a harrowing turn of events, a 51-year-old Chinese national has been arraigned before the Gweru Magistrates Court on allegations of raping a 17-year-old employee. The incident is said to have occurred at a mine in Gweru, where the accused and the complainant worked together.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe, the alleged rape took place on November 15, 2022, when the accused is reported to have raped the complainant on the floor of his office. The complainant, who was employed as a general worker at the time, was subsequently fired by the accused shortly after the alleged incident.

The matter came to light when the complainant, who gave birth to a baby girl the following year, confided in her mother about the ordeal. A police report was then filed on June 13, 2024, leading to the arrest of the accused person.

The case has been remanded to June 28, 2024, as the investigation continues.

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By Stella Levantesi, an Italian climate journalist, photographer, and author. She is the author of the Gaslit series on DeSmog. Her main areas of expertise are climate disinformation, climate litigation, and corporate responsibility on the climate crisis.

Oil majors are not on track to hit Paris Agreement climate targets that limit global temperature rise to 1.5C, a new report reveals.

Eight fossil fuel giants  Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell, TotalEnergies, BP, Eni, Equinor, and ConocoPhillips  are on course to use 30 percent of the worlds remaining carbon budget for that 1.5C goal, according to the Big Oil Reality Check report by nonprofit Oil Change International (OCI).

Combined, the oil and gas companies extraction plans are consistent with a temperature rise of over 2.4C, the report found.That level of warming, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, will reduce food security, risk irreversible loss of ecosystems, and increase heat waves, rainfall, and extreme weather events.

We analyzed the climate promises and plans of the largest eight international oil and gas companies that are owned in North America and Europe. What would it take for an oil and gas producer to align their production with limiting warming to 1.5? David Tong, global industry campaign manager at OCI and co-author of the report, told DeSmog.

If an oil and gas company were serious about transitioning its business model, the first step would be ending all new production and then setting a Paris-aligned phaseout plan, he added.

No New Fossil Standard

A recent paper by academics at University College London and the International Institute for Sustainable Development, published in Science in May, calls for stopping fossil fuel expansion and building a No New Fossil global norm. According to the authors, this would make it easier to phase down fossil fuels and achieve the Paris Agreement climate goals.

No new fossil fuel projects would be needed in a 1.5C world, they wrote, because the existing fossil fuel capital stock is sufficient to meet energy demand. The authors also note that preventing new fossil fuel projects is, in general, more feasible than closing existing projects from an economic, political, and legal viewpoint.

In the face of continuing global pressure to stop fossil fuel expansion, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Equinor, Eni, ExxonMobil, and TotalEnergies have goals to increase oil and gas production within the next three years or beyond, the OCI report finds. While Shell does not quantify a target, the company plans to keep oil production steady while growing gas production in the near future, OCI said.

#BigOil has, in recent years, made splashy climate pledges to cut their greenhouse gas emissions & take on the climate crisis, but those plans don't stand up to scrutiny. READ: https://t.co/NJuxsjXfn2 More in @PriceofOil  report https://t.co/Cc08G9saxq  Center for International Environmental Law (@ciel_tweets) May 27, 2024

None of those companies came anywhere close to alignment [with climate goals], said Tong. Six of the eight companies we analyzed have explicit plans to increase their oil and gas production in this critical decade when we need to be cutting our reliance on fossil fuels, cutting oil, gas, and oil production.

Plateauing oil and expanding gas production, like some of these companies plan to do, is grossly insufficient compared with the action thats needed, Tong added. Even commitments to make businesses more efficient arent going to cut it alone, he said.

Its like a cigarette company claiming that it will solve lung cancer by producing cigarettes more efficiently, he noted. Thats not just not a credible claim. Its a promise to become a more efficient climate breaker.

Big Oil and War

According to the OCI report, all the oil majors fail to meet basic criteria for just transition plans for workers and communities where they operate.

A number of these companies also face significant ongoing, unresolved allegations of human rights  and Indigenous peoples rights violations, Tong told me.

A March 2024 investigation, commissioned by OCI and conducted by DataDesk, revealed that ExxonMobil, Chevron, TotalEnergies, BP, Shell, and Eni are complicit in facilitating the supply of crude oil to Israel. These findings are particularly noteworthy in the context of Israels mounting evidence of war crimes against Palestinians in Gaza, the OCI states in its new report.

Diesel and gasoline for tanks and other military vehicles are supplied by Israels refineries, which rely on regular imports of crude oil by these companies and, since October 2023, supplies mainly from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan/Russia, Gabon, and Brazil, the research has found.

The fossil fuel industry is fueling war and military conflicts in many regions of the world, said Svitlana Romanko, a prominent Ukrainian activist and founder and director of Razom We Stand, a Ukrainian organization campaigning to ban all imports of fossil fuels from Russia.

According to Romanko, the OCI Big Oil Reality Check report reinforces the importance of moving away from fossil fuels and investing into distributed renewable energy.

A new analysis by a group of climate experts estimates that the first two years of Russias war on Ukraine resulted in greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to around 175 million tonnes of carbon dioxide. The estimated global cost of this warming in extreme weather impacts: $32 billion.

After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia earned over 681 billion euros in revenue from fossil fuel exports. European Union countries purchased fossil fuels from Russia for more than 195 billion euros.

Big Oil, as well as Russia, is profiting from the war, Romanko said. After the invasion, BP, Chevron, Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies raked in $219 billion, more than double their profits compared to the previous year.

Most [governments] subsidize fossil fuels, and these subsidies are accounting for trillions of U.S. dollars annually, Romanko said. This is a big part of fossil fuel profits, and the more fossil fuels are subsidized, [the] less investments are made available for renewable energies.

She pointed out that the partnership between TotalEnergies and Russias largest private gas producer, Novatek, was also instrumental in helping Russia get access to technologies and engineering services to launch Novateks Yamal LNG and Arctic LNG 2 projects.

Romanko notes that fossil fuel infrastructure can also constitute a liability for military attacks and quickly become a target.

Centralized infrastructure endangers energy supply and overall safety of the supply, she said. In Ukraine, a massive effort to install solar power plants in schools and hospitals helped decentralize this key resource, Romanko explained. Decentralized energy supply is essential to building true energy independence, she added. And this is the future.

Pressure for Accountability

Some of the eight oil majors in OCIs report have faced more international and national scrutiny than others. Such pressure can facilitate accountability, but thats less likely when the fossil fuel company is closely intertwined with the institutional, political, and economic life of its country.

We need to look at what has succeeded in putting so much pressure on companies like Shell and BP, OCIs Tong said.

One factor: when communities in a companys home country work closely in partnership with communities in fossil fuel-producing countries. Tong said that positive results also happen when campaigners use a range of strategies to expose producers, from nonviolent direct action to op-eds, research, and court action.

This is particularly challenging with Eni, TotalEnergies, and Equinor in different ways because of the close interactions that each of the companies have with their home states, he added.

Public, political, and legal pressure for accountability must also be coupled with industry regulation, according to Tong.

We concluded that there is no evidence that the oil and gas sector will voluntarily transition to renewable energy, or voluntarily act to align their production with whats needed for the Paris Agreement, Tong said. Instead, governments must no longer license new production sites.

The strong right-wing result in the latest EU Parliament elections could also affect Big Oils energy transition.

The more the links between the state and big polluters are overt, the more people get out in the streets and protest, Tong said.

What is safe to say is that Big Oils business as usual will increase climate change effects.

Floods, hurricanes, extreme weather events, and the millions of human lives affected and lost  this damage to nature, to human lives and to life on earth will only mount, Romanko said. What will be lost in a few more years will also mount if fossil fuel companies are allowed to continue with business as usual.
Representatives of the NATO Defence and Security Cooperation Directorate met recently with officials from Azerbaijans National Defence University in Baku to take stock of the reform efforts undertaken by the countrys military education institutions within the framework of NATOs Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP).

At the meeting, which took place on 29 and 30 May 2024, Major General Arif Hasanov, Deputy Director of the National Defence University (NDU) and Rector of the Military Research Institute, briefed his NATO counterparts on the progress made to date, including the use of new technology for an e-library which is supporting all defence education institutions. At the request of Azerbaijans Ministry of Defence, NATO and Azerbaijan will prioritise their cooperation on faculty development, academic exchange programmes, sharing of best practices, reforms of the defence and security sectors, and the development of the corps of Non-Commissioned Officers.

Major General Hasanov expressed his gratitude for NATOs continued support for the modernisation and professionalisation of Azerbaijans Armed Forces education system.
Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg visited Ottawa on Wednesday (19 June 2024) to meet with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and discuss final preparations for the Washington Summit in July.

The Secretary General delivered a speech at an event hosted by the NATO Association of Canada and the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association. He praised Canada for its role in strengthening NATOs deterrence and defence, including in Latvia, where Canadian troops lead a multinational battlegroup. He also paid tribute to the Canadian armed forces for their commitment, skill, and professionalism and welcomed Canadas indispensable support in the face of Russias aggression, noting Canada has provided billions of dollars in aid to Ukraine including air defence systems, battle tanks, and F-16 pilot training. He underscored that strong support to Ukraine will be the most urgent priority for the Washington Summit.

Mr Stoltenberg welcomed that Canada is increasing defence spending, "and will add billions over the coming years, including by purchasing high end new capabilities, modernising NORAD, and by investing in fifth generation F35 aircraft." He added: "I continue to expect that all Allies should meet the guidelines of spending two percent. I know that this is not always easy ... but when we reduce defence spending when tensions are going down, we must be able to increase spending, investments in our security, when tensions are increasing and are high as they are today."

Canada has long prioritised global partnerships and the Secretary General highlighted these as another priority for the Alliance ahead of its 75th anniversary Summit. The war in Ukraine demonstrates that our security is not regional, our security is global, he emphasised, adding that the growing alignment between Russia and its authoritarian friends in Asia makes it even more important that we work closely with our friends in the Indo-Pacific.

At the event, the Secretary General was presented with the Louis St. Laurent Award for his outstanding service to peace and security. The honour is named for Canadian Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent, who was premier at the time of NATOs founding in 1949, and a strong proponent of the Alliance.
AI candidate running for U.K. parliament to appear on the ballot for general elections in July

An artificial intelligence character is about to participate in the United Kingdom general elections. AI Steve, alongside non-AI candidates running to represent constituents in the Brighton Pavilion area of Brighton and Hove, will appear on the ballot next month.

Steve Endacott, the man behind the AI candidate, is an entrepreneur from the south of England who wants his avatar to be present in the House of Commons as the Member of the Parliament (MP) for the said constituency. "I am setting up my own party after growing disillusioned with how much the others are out of contact with the U.K. population," Endacott said in a LinkedIn Post. "I will try to use technology to connect directly with the views of my constituents." In a separate interview, he said AI Steve is the AI co-pilot. "I'm the real politician going into Parliament, but I'm controlled by my co-pilot," he said.

Endacott is the chairman of Neural Voice, a company that creates personalized voice assistants for businesses in the form of an AI avatar. Neural Voice's technology is behind AI Steve, one of the seven characters the company created to showcase its technology.

On its campaign website, AI Steve asks users whether they want to join a team of "creators" that will help them create new policies. Potential voters do this by clicking on a "Speak to AI Steve" option and then filling out personal information before interacting with the bot. Supporters can also become validators, where Steve asks them to "spend just minutes a week" to "act as a control mechanism to stop daft policies" by giving each policy suggestion a rating from one to ten.

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.

"You don't have to know anything about AI as all you do is press a button to talk to the character," Endacott said in a statement. "We expect to appeal to a wider audience who dont want to talk to the AI via the quality of our policies."

"We are asking them once a week to score our policies from 1 to 10. And if a policy gets more than 50 percent, it gets passed. And that's the official party policy. Every single policy, I will say that my decision is my voters' decision. And I'm connected to my voters at any time every week via electronic means."

The AI candidate responded to NBC News when asked about its stance on Brexit: "As a democracy, the U.K. voted to leave, and it's my responsibility to implement and optimize this decision regardless of my personal views on the matter."

In 2022, Endacott unsuccessfully ran in a local election and received less than 500 votes. When his candidacy of "unique nature" was announced, it triggered a conversation on social media platform X. It prompted around 1,000 calls to the AI proxy in one night. (Related: Google's AI is completely fabricating fake quotes to smear truth-tellers.)

Conservative Party trails Labor Party in polls ahead of U.K. general elections

With the British general elections coming on July 4, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged to cut taxes and reduce immigration if his Conservative Party is re-elected.

Sunak admitted that "people are frustrated with our party and frustrated with me." But he argued that the Conservatives are "the only party with the big ideas to make this country a better place to live." He also insisted he had not considered resigning and said he was "not going to stop fighting for people's votes."

According to surveys, the Conservative Party is trailing the left-of-center Labor Party.

Meanwhile, the Tories' manifesto was launched on June 11 at the Silverstone motor racing circuit in central England, home of the British Grand Prix.

In its manifesto, the party pledged 17 billion pounds ($22 billion) in tax cuts by 2030, to be paid for largely by slashing welfare costs. The main tax cut is a two-percentage-point reduction in National Insurance. The Conservative government has already cut it twice, from 12 percent to the current eight percent.

On the other side, the Labor Party argues that the tax burden has risen to its highest level in decades during 14 years of Tory rule. Labor campaign chairman Pat McFadden called the Conservative manifesto "the most expensive panic attack in history."

Visit FutureTech.news to read stories similar to this.

Watch the video below that talks about how artificial intelligence can rig elections.

This video is from the Tanjerea channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Meta covertly training AI with user data without providing Instagram and Facebook users easy opt-out options.

Google API leaks reveal search giant RIGS results for COVID, election to favor hand-picked narratives.

Unchecked AI could cause social order to collapse and lead to war, top Japanese firms warn.

U.K. bringing back mandatory military service as Europe prepares for WAR with Russia.

Sources include:

NBCNews.com

AI-Steve.co.uk

APNews.com

Brighteon.com
Bank of Israel advances digital shekel plans; CBDC to be used to surveil, control monetary transactions of Israelis

In line with Israel's push for a digital currency initiative to accelerate its central bank digital currency (CBDC) development, the Bank of Israel (BoI) is set to collaborate with various service providers to create a digital payment system  the digital shekel.

Israel's central bank outlined its plans in an announcement, revealing the launch of the "Digital Shekel Challenge." This initiative, inspired by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub's "Project Rosalind," aims to explore advanced application programming interface (API) prototypes. The BIS project, conducted in partnership with the Bank of England, serves as a model for this Israeli endeavor.

BoI said it had built a technological prototype "simulating the heart of the digital shekel system." Payment service providers would get access to the system to provide advanced payment options to the general public. Among the payment types to be explored are micropayments, split payments and payments requiring multiparty signatures, according to the call for participants.

"In the challenge, for the first time, we allow the financial industry from Israel and abroad and a wide variety of stakeholders in the payments system to cooperate with us practically in thinking, planning and designing the digital shekel," said Andrew Abir, BoI deputy governor.

In 2021, BoI said it had already carried out a pilot test and last year it said it was monitoring scenarios  including whether stablecoins are widely used. It also conducted a project with Hong Kong and BIS to probe how the systems can be protected from hacks.

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 initiative is a significant step for the Israeli ecosystem, potentially bridging the gap between the web3 industry and government, even though DeFi, ZK and permissionless solutions are not yet being considered," said Saul Rejwan, managing partner at Masterkey VC.

Over the years, the advocacy of banks all over the world to shift to digital currencies has received various criticisms, especially when it comes to citizens' privacy and civil liberties. While proponents argue that CBDCs could help provide banking access to the unbanked, the same technology could be exploited to exclude or discriminate against certain groups.

One of the primary concerns is the potential for increased surveillance. Unlike cash transactions, CBDC transactions could be tracked and monitored by central banks. The financial institution's power to trace every transaction made with CBDCs severely undermines financial privacy. It allows governments to gather extensive data on individual's spending habits and personal financial activities.

Moreover, with CBDCs, authorities could potentially misuse the power to target political opponents or suppress dissent by freezing or seizing assets without due process. Analysts predict that with the system, governments could dictate how, where and when money can be spent. It also opens the door to excessive control over individual financial behavior. (Related: Russian State Duma officially approves countrys very own CBDC, the DIGITAL RUBLE.)

Survey: 94% of central banks are considering CBDCs

BIS, an international financial institution owned by member central banks, conducted a new survey that concluded that most central banks are now exploring the possibility of issuing their own digital currencies.

The BIS surveyed 86 different central banks and 94 percent of the respondents noted that they were involved in some form of CBDC work last year. It found that most respondents were working on both retail and wholesale CBDCs, which are restricted to large transactions between financial institutions.

The central bank umbrella organizations survey also indicated that its more likely central banks will issue wholesale CBDCs in the next six years than their retail counterparts.

"Based on the number of central banks that indicated that they would be very likely to start issuing a CBDC over the next few years, there could be six additional retail and nine wholesale CBDCs publicly circulating towards the end of this decade," the polling included. This information mirrored the numbers reported by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in April.

The WEF, a Switzerland-based international organization focused on public-private cooperation, noted that more than 98 percent of the world's central banks are "researching, experimenting, piloting or deploying" CBDCs. The globalist organization also predicted that there could be 24 live CBDCs by 2030.

Visit CryptoCult.news to read more stories about governments' push to shift to digital currencies.

Watch the video below that talks about currency crash and the promotion of CBDCs that pose surveillance risks.

This video is from the Son of the Republic channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

SWIFT's new central bank digital currency platform could be ready in 1-2 years.

Tom Renz: Digital currencies will lead to the end of freedom  Brighteon.TV.

American banks are taking part in central bank digital currency trials funded by Epstein-linked MIT lab.

G20 endorses digital public infrastructure that pushes DIGITAL CURRENCIES  something most Americans oppose.

Worldcoin CEO: Global digital currency tied to global digital ID will soon be required 'whether you like it or not.'

Sources include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

CoinDesk.com

DailyHodl.com

Brighteon.com
Federal appeals court confirms COVID jabs dont prevent the spread of disease which means they arent vaccines at all

The plaintiffs in a lawsuit filed against a California school district that mandated Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "vaccination" achieved a victory this week after the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit vacated its dismissal.

Filed by the Health Freedom Defense Fund, California Educators for Medical Freedom, and a number of other health freedom groups, the suit argues that the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) "interfered with [plaintiffs'] fundamental right to refuse medical treatment. In short, unless LAUSD employees agreed to get injected for COVID, they would "lose their jobs."

The U.S. District Court for the Central District of California had previously defended LAUSD's jab mandate based on the 1905 Supreme Court decision in Jacobson v. Massachusetts to allow states to mandate smallpox vaccinations. The problem, according to Ninth Circuit Judge R. Nelson, is that smallpox injections, in that case, were deemed to help stop the spread of smallpox, which is not the case for COVID jabs.

In this case, plaintiffs "have plausibly alleged that the COVID-19 vaccine does not effectively 'prevent the spread' of COVID-19," Judge Nelson wrote. "At this stage, we must accept Plaintiff's allegations that the vaccine does not prevent the spread of COVID-19 as true. And, because of this, Jacobson does not apply."

In other words, since there is zero compelling evidence to show that mRNA (modRNA) COVID shots prevent the spread of a virus called COVID, there is no legal basis by which to mandate them on anyone.

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.

(Related: Did you know that Tony Fauci still blames the unvaccinated for just about every COVID death that has ever occurred?)

mRNA injections aren't "traditional" vaccines  they're a medical experiment

Another argument successfully argued by plaintiffs is that mRNA injections do not even qualify as "vaccines" in the first place because they are a new technology. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) actually had to redefine what a "vaccine" is back in September 2021 from a product that "produce[s] immunity" to a "preparation" that supposedly "stimulate[s] the body's immune response."

"Their complaint's crux is that the COVID-19 'vaccine' is not a vaccine," Nelson said. "'Traditional' vaccines, Plaintiffs claim, should prevent transmission or provide immunity to those who get them. But the COVID-19 vaccine does neither."

This same admission was made by Janine Small, Pfizer's president of international developed markets, at a European Union (EU) hearing. Small explained that Pfizer never even bothered to test the ability of its mRNA injection to stop the spread of COVID, but pushed them through at warp speed regardless in order to keep up with "the speed of science."

What this all means, of course, is that former CDC director Rochelle Walensky point-blank lied to America, as did other "experts," when she falsely claimed that the vast majority of people who get "fully vaccinated" are protected from catching and spreading COVID.

President Biden said much the same when he mumbled on a few occasions about how people who get jabbed cannot spread COVID to others. These claims by Biden, Walensky and many others served as the basis by which injections mandates were pushed on the masses.

Then we have Tony Fauci who declared on numerous occasions that people who take the shots become "dead ends to the virus." Fauci would contradict himself on multiple occasions as well, but few people seemed to notice as the mandates continued.

Member of European Parliament Rob Roos commented on all these contradictory statements that it was "shocking" and "even criminal" for governments to play along with allowing vaccine mandates and "passports" when Pfizer itself had never even bothered to test the shots for efficacy.

COVID "vaccines" were a hoax from the very beginning. Find out more at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

LifeSiteNews.com

NaturalNews.com
Doctor INDICTED for blowing lid on illegal LGBT child transition scheme at Texas Childrens Hospital in Houston

The Department of Justice (DoJ) has indicted Dr. Eithan Haim , a surgeon out of Texas, for blowing the lid on Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, which has been secretly performing child "sex change" procedures in violation of state law.

Federal prosecutors filed criminal charges against Haim for revealing publicly that Texas Children's has been "transitioning" children who want to become LGBTs, this after the facility's administrators previously claimed that such mutilative procedures had ceased in accordance with state law.

The administration of President Biden has been pursuing charges against Haim since last year when the physician leaked documents to a journalist showing that Texas Children's has been mutilating the genitals of children as young as 11 in violation of Texas law.

"They wanted to intimidate me into silence using every technique the federal leviathan had at their disposal, but they failed," Haim bragged on X. "The only way to lose is to submit to corruption. It's time to fight back harder than ever!"

(Related: In 2023, a mutilated "de-transitioner" by the name of Soren Aldaco sued doctors for their coercive efforts to opt for trans surgeries.)

Is Biden punishing Haim for becoming a whistleblower?

The scheme goes back to May 2023 when Haim blew the whistle on the secret "sex change" procedures that were still taking place at Texas Children's. Though the hospital claimed that its gender clinic had been shut down, Haim revealed that it was still in operation  just in secret.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton had warned the medical facility that "gender-affirming care" for children is now strictly forbidden under state laws that now deem it as a form of child abuse.

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.

Documents leaked by Haim show that just three days after Texas Children's issued a statement in March 2022 claiming it was then in compliance with state law, physicians at the hospital proceeded to implant a hormone device inside the body of a young girl.

Since that time, the number of "gender-affirming" procedures at Texas Children's has only increased rather than decreased. Keep in mind as well that Texas Children's is one of the largest pediatric hospitals in the entire country.

Haim's leaks led to a magazine called City Journal publishing an article about the matter. That same week, the Texas Legislature passed a new law confirming that "sex change" procedures for children are banned in the Lone Star State.

When Haim revealed that underage patients were still being "treated" with transitions at Texas Children's, he says he did not include any personal information about the patients.

Even so, "heavily armed" federal agents showed up at Haim's door informing him that he now faces four felony charges for allegedly violating a patient privacy law, reports indicate. Haim was also given a summons to appear in court.

It is somewhat odd for the Biden regime to be the entity going after Haim for all this. After all, Biden and his people support LGBT "transitioning," and Haim blew the lid on it. At the same time, it appears as though the Biden regime is punishing Haim for blowing the lid on the secret operation at Texas Children's.

"You can't make this up  pure evil," commented author and conservative filmmaker Mike Cernovich about what the Biden regime is doing by going after someone for exposing "experiments on children."

"This is proof that the Left is siding with perversion by charging a doctor for exposing the crimes of child mutilation instead of charging the child mutilators themselves," wrote a commenter at RT about this travesty.

"What more proof is needed that America is dangerous these days?"

LGBT is a death cult that preys on children. Find out more at Gender.news.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

NaturalNews.com
Intel HALTS construction of $25B computer chip plant in Israel due to lack of supplies stemming from Red Sea blockade

American computer chip giant Intel Corp. has halted the construction of a $25 billion chip manufacturing plant in Israel

The Israeli newspaper Calcalist first broke the news of the move on June 10, writing that "Intel's suppliers received in recent days notice of the cancellation of contracts for the supply of equipment and materials required for the establishment of the company's new factory." The Israeli Ministry of Finance was also reportedly aware of the tech giant's decision to halt the plant's construction.

Intel first announced the plant's construction in December. Had the project pushed through, it would have been built in the southern city of Kiryat Gat, almost 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Tel Aviv. (Related: Intel pushes forward with $25 billion investment in Israel amid ongoing war in Gaza.)

Calcalist stated that in response to a request for comment, Intel said Israel continues to be one of its "key global manufacturing and [research and development] sites" and that it remains "committed to the region."

"As mentioned previously, the scope and rate of expansion of Intel's production at the company's sites around the world depend on several changing factors. Managing a project of this magnitude, especially in our industry, usually involves schedule adjustments. Our decisions are based on business conditions, market dynamics, and responsible capital management."

The Kiryat Gat facility first announced in December is expected to open by 2028 and remain in operation until at least 2035. At the time, Intel said construction work had already started  including clean rooms and support buildings. It added that a significant portion of the buildings, including the casting of piles and first floors, have been completed.

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.

According to Intel's annual report, Israel is the company's third-largest country of operation by asset size after the U.S. and Ireland. During the 2010s, Intel became the leading employer in Israel's thriving tech sector.

Intel gave no reason for the pause.

Geopolitical tensions have strained investment in Israel

The semiconductor giant has been present in Israel for over 50 years, employing almost 12,000 at the Kiryat Gat facility and three other R&D centers in Haifa, Petah Tikva and Jerusalem. The company said in December that it is currently responsible for creating indirect employment for approximately 42,000 workers in Israel.

Since the beginning of the war in October of last year, Israel has suffered economic consequences at the hands of the Palestinian resistance. Geopolitical tensions have further strained investment, with major investors like SoftBank and Koch Investments halting deals with the country. Venture capitalist investments in Israel peaked in 2021 at $29 billion, but as of 2024, foreign investment has sunk to around $5 billion.

Tel Aviv's efforts to stabilize through the government-run Yozma venture capital fund have seen limited success. With only $200 to $300 million in cash remaining, emergency funds are insufficient to sustain the technology sector.

Bank of Israel Gov. Amir Yaron said in May that Israel's current war costs $70 billion of the country's budget for 2025.

He expounded: "There is no doubt that more expenses will be needed since the economy needs security, and security needs the economy. However, it is important to emphasize that you cannot give an open check on the issue of security spending. You must find the right balance between things."

Visit EconomicRiot.com for similar stories.

Watch this clip about Israel facing failure in the Gaza Strip.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

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Tucker blasts 'liar' Rep. Crenshaw for claiming intel community doesn't meddle in U.S. news coverage.

ASTROTURFING: Pro-Israel group paid students $250 each to attend March for Israel event in D.C.

Israel declares major LAND GRAB in West Bank.

Sources include:

TheCradle.co

Brighteon.com
Israel releases Palestinian politician after 8 months in prison

According to the Middle East Eye, Israeli security forces released Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) Speaker Aziz Dweik on June 13. Eyewitnesses recounted to the Turkish news service Anadolu Ajansi that the top lawmaker of the Palestinian National Authority's (PA) unicameral legislature was dropped off at a military checkpoint in the city of Hebron at the Occupied West Bank.

The 77-year-old Dweik was arrested on Oct. 17, ten days after the Oct. 7 Operation Al-Aqsa Flood attack by Hamas. He was held under administrative detention for six months, which was later extended to two more months. Administrative detention in Israel allows for the holding of detainees on the grounds of a "security threat" without an indictment, typically for six months, with the possibility of extension.

During his detention, Dweik was held in a prison in the Negev desert. Images shared on social media show him looking significantly thinner than before his arrest.

The Palestinian Prisoners' Club accused authorities of medical neglect, stating in December that the PLC speaker suffered from anemia and hemoglobin deficiency due to diabetes, and had previously undergone two catheterization operations and kidney stone fragmentation. The group added that Dweik did not receive proper medical treatment and that his family was denied visitation rights to check on his health.

Dweik was elected speaker of the PLC in 2006. However, the legislature has not convened since 2007 and effectively ceased to function following the split between Fatah (Palestinian National Liberation Movement) and Hamas (Islamic Resistance Movement) that year.

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 Oct. 7, Tel Aviv has detained thousands of Palestinians from the Occupied West Bank, many of whom remain in administrative detention. The inclusion of Palestinians from the West Bank is an overreach by Israel, given that its enemy Hamas is mainly focused in the Gaza Strip. The PA governs the West Bank, in contrast to the Hamas-ruled Gaza.

Addameer NGO: Over 7,350 Palestinians arrested in the West Bank

According to the Addameer NGO based in the city of Ramallah, over 7,350 Palestinians have been arrested in the Occupied West Bank alone. While some have been released, 9,100 Palestinians remain in custody  a significant increase from the 5,200 held before Oct. 7.

These figures exclude the thousands of adults and children reportedly detained, tortured and interrogated by the Israeli army in makeshift prisons across Gaza, without any legal or civilian oversight. (Related: New report details Israels systematic sexual abuse and torture of Palestinians.)

An anonymous staff member of the NGO disclosed to Al Jazeera that Israeli authorities have become increasingly violent during arrests since Oct. 7. Once in custody, Palestinians are subjected to beatings and repeated strip searches. Detainees face even harsher conditions in prison  including cuts to water and electricity, denial of visits from relatives or the Red Cross and lack of medical care  leading to deaths due to health neglect.

"So far, 10 prisoners from the West Bank have died. This is the highest figure ever in such a short period," they said.

Among the 200 Palestinian children in Israeli prisons, 40 are under administrative detention. Severely or terminally ill detainees are often denied family visits and hope for release. One cancer patient died in an Israeli prison at age 23 after five months without seeing his family.

In Gaza, thousands of Palestinians have been arrested since the war began. Over the last five months, Israel has killed more than 31,000 Palestinians and displaced nearly the entire population of 2.3 million people in Gaza. Many have gone missing, raising fears they are either buried under rubble or held in makeshift prisons.

"Israel's sweeping use of administrative detention is not lawful," said Omar Shakir, the Israel-Palestine director at Human Rights Watch. "But these practices dont just date back years, but decades, and they have only escalated since Oct. 7."

Watch this video about released prisoners recounting the torture and neglect of their health within Israeli detention centers.

This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

UN probe finds Israel GUILTY of crimes against humanity in Gaza.

IDF kills at least 210 Palestinians in "bloody massacre" hostage rescue operation in central Gaza.

Biden administration considering direct negotiations with Hamas for release of remaining American hostages if current talks with Israel fail.

Sources include:

MiddleEastEye.net

AlJazeera.com

Brighteon.com
Pentagon plans to serve LAB-GROWN MEAT to troops in the name of climate change

American troops might be used as guinea pigs for a lab-grown meat initiative funded by the Department of Defense (DoD), ostensibly to cut down on carbon dioxide emissions at military bases.

The Washington Free Beacon reported that BioMADE, a public-private partnership that has received more than $500 million from the DoD, is responsible for the endeavor. BioMADE announced on its website on June 3 that it is looking for new ideas to reduce the CO2 emissions from food production and transport at military sites. These ideas include "novel cell culture methods suitable for the production of cultivated meat or protein"  essentially a euphemism for lab-grown fake meat.

Lab-grown meat is a new technology where animal muscle and fat tissues are grown from modified animal cells in special equipment. This process uses a mix of chemicals, pressure and temperature to create meat that resembles beef, chicken and pork. Though still in the experimental stage, lab-grown meat has sparked a debate about its efficiency and ethics of producing meat without killing animals. (Related: Lab-made chicken meat grown from CANCER CELLS receives FDA approval - Are you ready to eat TUMOR nuggets?)

But according to a 2023 study by researchers at the University of California-Davis, the carbon footprint of lab-grown beef might be worse than that of the product it seeks to replace. It zoomed in on the use of highly refined or purified growth media, which is used to help animal cells multiply. They wrote that lab-grown meat using purified media in its production has a global warming potential four to 25 times greater than the average compared to the real thing.

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.

Troops deserve BETTER FOOD: Critics speak out against plan to feed soldiers with lab-grown meat

Critics argue that using U.S. troops to test lab-grown meat, which is still experimental and not widely available in stores, is inappropriate. Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved two California companies to sell cultured chicken to restaurants in 2023, some believe taxpayer money shouldnt fund the lab-grown meat industry.

Jack Hubbard, executive director for the Center for the Environment and Welfare (CEW), was among the vocal critics of the plan. "Taxpayer dollars should not be used to fund the lab-grown meat sector," he remarked.

"Our troops deserve better than to be served lab-grown meat, produced in bioreactors with immortalized cells and chemicals. Unfortunately, this effort is being driven by an agenda that is political and anti-farmer. Our soldiers should never be used as guinea pigs."

Even Ethan Lane, vice president for government affairs at the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, has criticized the DoD research grant that bankrolled BioMADE.

"It is outrageous that the DoD is spending millions of taxpayer dollars to feed our heroes like lab rats," he said in a statement. "This misguided research project is a giant slap in the face to everyone that has served our country. Our veterans and active-duty troops deserve so much better than this."

"U.S. cattle producers raise the highest-quality beef in the world, with the lowest carbon footprint  and American troops deserve to be served that same wholesome, natural meat and not ultra-processed, lab-grown protein that is cooked up in a chemical-filled bioreactor."

Watch this video about BioMADE's lab-grown meat for U.S. soldiers.

This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Florida bill BANNING lab-grown meat awaits Gov. DeSantis signature.

The globalists are "coming for your food," experts warn - "plant-based" tyranny will rule the world.

FDA approves lab-grown meat produced by Chinese firm linked to biowarfare program.

Study: Vegan FAKE MEAT products linked to cardiovascular issues.

Sources include:

FreeBeacon.com

UCDavis.edu

Newsmax.com

NCBA.org

Brighteon.com
Priest gets one-year sentence in French prison for molesting 7 underage boys

Two months after admitting in court that he molested seven underage boys from 2002 to 2018 in France, Spain and Switzerland, a former U.S. district superior for the Society of St. Pius X (SSPX) was sentenced to one year in a French jail.

According to reports, Father Arnaud Rostand, 58, did not challenge the charges made against him, but admitted his actions and made an apology in court, saying "I apologize to the victims and deeply regret everything I have done. I'm here to be punished."

Rostand had been arrested in December last year, having been based in the Monastery of Our Lady of Montgardin in the Western Alps since 2021. The idyllic monastery has been styled the "golden cage" due to being used as a place of seclusion for priests to dedicate themselves to a contemplative life. Gap Criminal Court sentenced him to 12 months in prison with deferred incarceration and to undergo four years of "socio-juridical" monitoring and psychiatric treatment, as well as provide compensation for his victims. In the event of non-compliance, he gets an additional three years imprisonment.

The prosecutors were seeking a sentence of four years of monitored living, "with a care injunction, a permanent ban on exercising a voluntary or professional activity with minors." The reason why they are seeking "socio-judicial" living is due to the priest having been under psychiatric care since 2019. His defense lawyers argued that this should be taken into account since Rostand is "a weak, fragile, condemnable man."

In court, Rostand said that he informed the SSPX via letter in 1998 that he had an "attraction" to children. He stated that he informed the SSPX about this again in 2000, then in 2006 and 2013, with reports claiming that he claimed to have "always fought against this attraction."

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.

On April 5, the SSPX published an initial statement, though it did not name Rostand. The statement, which was reissued on April 15 for the U.S. and Canada, claimed that "at no time and in no way were the actions of this priest covered up by his superiors." It also noted that "in 2014, after ambiguous and inappropriate attitudes were brought to their attention, the society's superiors withdrew the incriminated priest from the apostolate, entrusting him with administrative tasks without any responsibility and under appropriate disciplinary supervision, firstly in Switzerland and then in Canada from 2019."

Other unverified reports alleged that Rostand was not entirely restricted in his ministry while in Canada. Rather, he performed baptisms and held public masses on occasion. (Related: BOMBSHELL: Kamala Harris covered up sex abuse crimes of priests, buried records, and took cash from church officials.)

Former priest in Paris sentenced 10+ years for raping, sexually assaulting boys from 1990s to 2000s

Rostand's sentencing came on the heels of the May 25 sentencing of a former French senior priest, Olivier de Scitivaux de Greische, who was found "guilty of all the acts of rape and aggravated sexual assault" he was accused of.

The former senior priest in the diocese of Orleans southwest of Paris, who will be serving a minimum of 10 years behind bars, acknowledged everything "without reservation." He was also sentenced to socio-judicial supervision, the obligation to seek treatment and a ban on carrying out any professional or voluntary activity involving contact with minors.

"I admit because I have to use words, to the touching, the caresses, the fellatio, the digital and penile penetrations, to all the acts," he told the court.

In court, it was the first time when the accused admitted to raping and sexually assaulting two other victims as early as 1982, but he cannot be prosecuted for those acts since they were past the statute of limitations. The defense lawyer Damien Brossier has appealed to the court for leniency, stressing that his client was no longer a danger.

When he was just ordained as a priest, he became close to the parents of his victims, regularly inviting himself to their home and staying overnight in the bedroom of the eldest child, who was raped and assaulted from the age of nine. Sexual acts took place at the boys' home while their parents slept and also at his place, in a winter chalet or on summer camp. The three brothers and a friend described before the court the abuse they each suffered, unaware at the time that the others were also victims.

The youngest brother described several months when the priest would call by "every week, every day, every evening" and "the moment when he used tools on my body" or when "he shaved me." "When one wasn't available, there was the second or third," de Scitivaux de Greische said about the three brothers, who are now in their 40s.

Despite youth workers and families first alerting the diocese to the abuse in the 1980s and further warnings by families and youth workers within the chaplaincy in 1998, the sexual assaults continued until the early 2000s.

Read more stories of abuse to children at Evil.news.

Watch the video below that alleges the Pope of enabling pedophile priests.

This video is from MrDragonSlayer's channel on Brighteon.com.

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Vatican completely SILENT on the shocking pedophilia, child rape and child abuse carried out by 300+ Catholic priests and staffers in America.

Sources include:

LifesiteNews.com

LeDauphine.com

RFI.fr

Brighteon.com
Report: Ukraine Communications Group is the latest iteration of the Ministry of Truth

The newly established Ukraine Communications Group (UCG) appears to be the latest iteration of the Ministry of Truth , much like the now-defunct Disinformation Governance Board (DGB).

According to political analyst Andrew Korybko, Washington and Warsaw made two agreements to set up the UCG  based in the Polish capital. A press release by the U.S. Department of State said the UCG's goal is "to coordinate messaging, promote accurate reporting of Russia's full-scale invasion, amplify Ukrainian voices, and expose Kremlin information manipulation."

The UCG was inaugurated on June 10, with senior U.S. diplomat James Rubin and his Polish counterpart Tomasz Chlon taking part in the ceremony. Both are tasked with countering disinformation, according to the Associated Press (AP). It began work the following day, June 11.

According to Rubin, the group will include representatives from 12 countries  including Ukraine itself and will work in a space given by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Among the UCG's many goals is trying to discover and debunk Russian disinfo campaigns aimed at weakening support for Kyiv worldwide.

"The challenge in information warfare is not only to know what the Russians are doing, it's to also figure out what are the best ways to combat it," Rubin told media outlets that graced the launch. He added that while the idea for the initiative came from the U.S., Poland gladly embraced it. The AP pointed out that the government of Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk is "greatly concerned by the damage that disinformation can pose to democracies."

Human knowledge is under attack! Governments and powerful corporations are using censorship to wipe out humanity's knowledge base about nutrition, herbs, self-reliance, natural immunity, food production, preparedness and much more. We are preserving human knowledge using AI technology while building the infrastructure of human freedom. Speak freely without censorship at the new decentralized, blockchain-power Brighteon.io. Explore our free, downloadable generative AI tools at Brighteon.AI. Support our efforts to build the infrastructure of human freedom by shopping at HealthRangerStore.com, featuring lab-tested, certified organic, non-GMO foods and nutritional solutions.

But Korybko warned that despite the UCG being nominally "directed against Russia, it will possibly also be designed against the West's conservative-nationalist opposition and could easily evolve to include more subjects than just Ukraine." He then recounted the fate of the now-defunct DGB, which was under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The board, which existed for mere months in 2022, was forced to close down under public pressure because of legitimate concerns that its authority risked violating Americans' civil liberties. (Related: Disinformation Government Board may soon rewrite history and change facts under the cover of anti-disinformation campaign.)

Korybko: DGB's architects "learned their lesson" and are applying it with the UCG

According to the Moscow-based Korybko, the DGB's architects "have learned their lesson" not to build up a similar institution at home  thus, the establishment of the UCG in Warsaw with the defunct board's functions. He noted that the UCG's foreign location and limited foreign composition permit the U.S. government to "plausibly deny" allegations that it poses a comparable threat to the civil liberties of Americans as its predecessor did.

Moreover, the political analyst warned that the UCG could possibly be weaponized against the conservative-nationalist opposition in the West that has been challenging the ruling liberal-globalist elite.

Further fueling suspicion of the UCG's nefarious purpose were remarks made by Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski. The former defense minister said anyone who backs traditional values, is against illegal immigration and and questions any facet of the Ukrainian war might be under Russian influence.

"Having been formed almost five months ahead of November's presidential election on foreign soil; outside the purview of the U.S. Constitution; and partially comprised of foreign governments, the UCG can be wielded by the [U.S. government] to meddle in the coming vote much more effectively than ever before," Korybko noted.

"In practice, this platform can help the Wests ruling liberal-globalist elite gain an edge in every forthcoming election by coordinating their information warfare campaigns and illegal surveillance schemes.

Watch this clip from "The American Journal" about the now-defunct DGB being intended to target American dissidents.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Flagging content for removal has "nothing to do with censorship," claims former head of Disinformation Governance Board.

UK disinformation unit spied on citizens and flagged online speech for removal during pandemic.

DHS rewards ex-intel officials who dismissed Hunter Bidens laptop from hell as "Russian disinfo."

Sources include:

Korybko.Substack.com

State.gov

APNews.com

Brighteon.com
Fyodor Lukyanov: Heres why this weekends Ukraine peace conference is a sham

Ukraine  with the support of its Western patrons  has been preparing this weekends peace conference in Switzerland for a long time. However, the main goal of the organizers  a major international event to condemn Russia in general  has only been marginally achieved. Its impact is diminished by the unwillingness of the countries of the global South and East to participate in such an event. Some very important countries (e.g. China) refused to come at all, while the majority behaved in the usual way  they do not want to quarrel with the West, so they showed the minimum permissible interest (which everyone judged for themselves). But these players do not want to be used to legitimize a certain line.

(Article by Fyodor Lukyanov republished from RT.com)

Difficulties in attracting guests forced the organizers to narrow the agenda to make it meaningful to a less engaged public. Food and nuclear safety, as well as the humanitarian issue of prisoner exchanges, are worthy of discussion in their own right. The basic idea has also been changed  Zelenskys peace formula, which implies Russias capitulation, has disappeared from the agenda. The outcome of the meeting can be predicted in advance  a lot of pathos-laden speeches from the Ukrainian and Western participants, with shorter and more evasive comments from the others, and some kind of streamlined resolution with a call to continue working within the framework of an inclusive peace process. There will be some propaganda gains, but not on the scale for which the whole thing was conceived.

The background to the conference is more interesting. The EU has held difficult elections to the European Parliament. The composition of the blocs representative body did not change dramatically. The mainstream parties retained control and the ability to decide among themselves on the distribution of seats in the European Commission. But in some countries, and some very important ones, there have been shocks that have been extremely unpleasant for the establishment.

France is the most affected  the failure of Emmanuel Macrons movement against the backdrop of the success of the far right is so obvious that the president has found it necessary to immediately announce new parliamentary elections. It is a risky move, but otherwise the feeling of being a lame duck would only increase. In Germany, the governing coalition did extremely badly  the main opposition CDU/CSU bloc gained almost as much as the three governing parties combined. The second place of the Alternative for Germany (AfD), against which an aggressive smear campaign was organized, is a clear signal to the elites. Other notable results include the victory of the scandalous Freedom Party (also far right) in Austria and the success of the nationalists in Belgium and the Netherlands.

It is wrong to link the results solely to the Ukraine issue; the range of issues on the minds of European voters is much broader. However, Emmanuel Macron deliberately made the defense of Ukraine one of the pillars of his partys campaign, hoping to use the Russian threat to divert attention from Frances domestic situation. In Germany, the supply of arms, including long-range weapons, to Kiev has been a source of constant debate, and the chancellor has been criticized for his constant indecision. The result, however, is ambivalent. The victorious CDU/CSU are the real hawks, while the second-placed AfD opposes arming Ukraine. The Netherlands and Belgium are among the bastions of support for Kiev, but the vote there was driven by very different factors. Finally, in Austria, which officially maintains its status of neutrality, there is a debate about its position in the context of the European crisis  whether there is a risk of becoming a participant in the confrontation.

What unites all the results of the European elections is not this or that stance on the Ukraine conflict, but the diverging agendas of ever wider sections of the population and the political establishment. In France, some people were probably alarmed by Macrons bellicose activism when he talked about sending the military into the Ukrainian conflict zone. But domestic issues, from security and migrants to living standards, undoubtedly seem more important to the vast majority of French people. And the main feeling about the current leadership is that it is not dealing with the real aspirations of the people, but instead focusing on its own problems, which are mainly of interest to its own circle.

And this, as the expression goes, is not a bug but a feature (not a failure of the program, but its function). The same Macron appeared on the political scene in 2017, when the countrys two leading parties were in deep crisis and the US and the UK had just experienced political upheavals  the arrival of Trump and the vote to exit the European Union. A fresh, combative figure with elastic views capable of changing in any direction was the French establishments response to the threat of undesirable ideological and political alternatives coming to power. In other words, an imitation of renewal without touching the essence. In Macrons case, it worked. But when internal contradictions reach insurmountable proportions, substantive solutions are needed. And decisions on the issues that matter most to the majority of the population, not to those at the top. France seems to be the first big Western state to have reached such an impasse.

This is relevant to the meeting on Ukraine in Switzerland in the sense that priorities will inevitably change in the long term. Not on the Ukraine issue, but in general. Then the time will come for a real peace conference.

Read more at: RT.com
U.S., Ukraine sign 10-year bilateral security agreement backed by nothing

President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have signed a landmark 10-year bilateral security agreement, aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defenses against Russian aggression and moving the country closer to NATO membership.

The agreement was finalized on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy, signaling a commitment from the U.S. to support Ukraine regardless of potential changes in the U.S. administration, including a possible return of former President Donald Trump.

"Our goal is to enhance Ukraine's credible defense and deterrence capabilities for the long term," Biden stated at a joint news conference with Zelensky. He emphasized the G7's unified stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin: "You cannot wait us out. You cannot divide us." The G7 also agreed to provide a $50 billion loan to Ukraine, backed by profits from frozen Russian assets.

The U.S.-Ukraine security deal serves as a framework to modernize Ukraines armed forces and is seen as a step towards NATO membership. The agreement includes commitments to develop Ukraine's defense industry, expand its military and align with NATO standards. (Related: Zelensky demanding 10 MORE YEARS of U.S. taxpayer funding for his "forever war.")

Zelensky hailed the agreement as historic, viewing it as a crucial step towards NATO membership. "This is an agreement on security and thus on the protection of human life," he remarked.

While Ukraine has long sought NATO membership, the alliance has stopped short of this commitment. NATO's Article Five clause, which treats an attack on one member as an attack on all, remains a critical point of contention.

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.

The agreement stipulates that in the event of an armed attack or threat against Ukraine, top U.S. and Ukrainian officials will convene within 24 hours to discuss a response and assess additional defense needs.

The U.S. reaffirmed its support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity, especially as Russia intensifies its offensive on Ukraine's eastern front. The agreement also facilitates intelligence sharing, joint training, military education programs and combined military exercises between the two nations.

With Trump currently leading Biden in many election polls, the future of the agreement could be uncertain. Trump has expressed skepticism about Ukraine's ongoing conflict, suggesting he would end the war quickly and has urged Europe to take on more responsibility in supporting Kyiv.

Zelensky addressed concerns about potential changes in U.S. leadership, emphasizing the global support for Ukraine based on shared values and empathy for the Ukrainian people. "If the people are with us, any leader will be with us in this struggle for freedom," he said.

Ukraine, allies reject Putin's ceasefire conditions

Meanwhile, Ukraine, the U.S. and NATO rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin's ceasefire conditions, which demand Ukraine withdraw from territories claimed by Moscow and abandon its NATO bid.

"Putin has illegally occupied sovereign Ukrainian territory and is in no position to dictate terms for peace," said U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at a NATO meeting in Brussels. "He could end this today by withdrawing from Ukrainian territory."

Ahead of a Ukraine peace conference in Switzerland, Putin stated that Moscow would stop its offensive if Kyiv withdrew its troops from the east and south, dropped its NATO ambitions and recognized Russia's annexation of Crimea.

Zelensky dismissed Putin's offer as an untrustworthy ultimatum, comparing it to Hitler's expansionist policies. "These are ultimatum messages, no different from the past," Zelensky told Italy's SkyTG24 news channel.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak called Putin's conditions "absurd," saying they amounted to asking Ukraine to surrender its sovereignty.

NATO defense ministers approved a new long-term security aid and military training plan for Ukraine, addressing delays in Western deliveries and responding to Russian advances. This plan complements the U.S.-led Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG), which coordinates military aid for Kyiv.

U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. C.Q. Brown noted that Ukrainian forces have managed to "hold the defensive lines" despite significant losses.

Visit WWIII.news for more stories like this.

Watch this video mocking Zelensky's repeated sniffing during a press conference.

This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Zelensky blames the world for Russian offensive in Kharkiv, but Ukrainian troops beg to differ.

Zelenskys presidential term has EXPIRED, but he still remains as Ukraines de facto chief executive.

Zelenskys legitimacy will soon be questioned  Kremlin.

Sources include:

Reuters.com

VOANews.com

Brighteon.com
WaPo admits to persistently LYING about Faucis beagle torture regime

For years,, an establishment propaganda rag, lied to its readers about the nature of Tony Fauci's scientific experiments on beagles. Now, theis coming clean , albeit quietly, about what Fauci was really up to in his quest to infect the world with biological weapons.

In a June 7, 2024, piece, the Post revealed that claims about Fauci's animal torture activities are, in fact, true.

"The Tunisian sand fly study ... was published on July 27, 2021, in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases," the Post now admits.

"The study described how the beagles, between 6 and 8 months old, and obtained from the kennels of the Pasteur Institute of Tunis, were sedated and then exposed to hundreds of sand flies that had been deprived of food for 24 hours."

Prior to this, the Post blasted the animal rights group White Coat Waste Project, which brought the beagle situation to the public's attention, for "thrash[ing]" Fauci, who at the time  this earlier article was published in 2021  was simply trying to save the world from the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19).

"Much of the onslaught stemmed from a viral and false claim that the agency Fauci leads, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, had funded a medical experiment in which beagles were trapped in mesh cages filled with diseased sand flies, according to four National Institutes of Health officials familiar with the calls," the Post said at the time.

"The outrage was supercharged by a bipartisan letter signed by 24 members of Congress that questioned the agency's funding of medical research on dogs."

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.

Suddenly and out of the blue, though, the Post has changed its story and now admits that Fauci tortured innocent pups as part of his vile medical experiments.

(Related: Check out our earlier report from 2021 highlighting what Fauci and his cronies were doing to innocent beagle dogs in the name of "science.")

Never trust WaPo

The issue came to a head following the most recent congressional hearing at which Fauci was presented with images of two sedated beagles by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.).

The Post reported that when those images first came to light, its editorial staff thought it would be really easy to "debunk" them as "another in a string of misleading attacks against Fauci, who became the public face of the government's response to the pandemic."

To be clear, the Post still apparently finds nothing wrong with these experiments, stating that they are "unrelated to covid" and are "part of a general effort among conservatives to discredit Fauci in any way possible." At the same time, the images are real, as were the heinous experiments.

"Imagine that in this, our Sacred Democracy a corporate news outlet owned and bankrolled by arguably the world's richest man, Jeff Bezos, with billions at his disposal to pour into investigative journalism, not only doesnt do any legwork on a story it's reporting on  a task which falls to a bootstrapped independent like WCW  but goes out of its way to smear and discount an important and true expose, an effort that had the intended effect of protecting a corrupt government bureaucrat," wrote Ben Bartee on his Armageddon Prose Substack.

"And the Washington Post would have us believe this was all a good-faith mix-up."

Several of Bartee's readers agreed, noting that the Post is simply "following in lockstep with marching orders."

"Greene and her 'grilling' of Fauci means nothing and will not lead to anything resembling redemption," this person added. "CONgress votes for and approves all sorts of skullduggery. It is simply theatrics."

Fauci and all others like him belong in prison for their crimes against animals and humanity. Learn more at FauciTruth.com.

Sources for this article include:

ArmageddonProse.substack.com

NaturalNews.com
A national victory for gun owners as Oregon 2A legal battles grind along

This week, gun owners had another victory in the endless battle to protect their GOD-given right to self-defense.

(Article by F Riehl republished from AmmoLand.com)

The United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas ruled in Mock v Garland that the Biden ban on pistol braces:

 violated the Administrative Procedure Act because it was arbitrary and capricious and was not a logical outgrowth of the Proposed Rule.

This case has been bouncing around for a while and will certainly be appealed by the most tyrannical Department of Justice in US history. Ironically, the defendant in this case, US Attorney General Merrick Garland, could well be convicted of breaking the law himself.

Never before has America had an Attorney General so committed to using his department as a partisan weapon to silence and intimidate his political opponents while protecting grifters in the administration.

While the pistol brace prohibition had been on hold, this is a positive and demonstrative step in the protection of gun owners.

As you know, the geniuses at the BATFE originally declared that pistol braces were unquestionably legal and unregulated. Or they were unregulated unless they touched your shoulder, or they could touch your shoulder but only for a second or so. Or something. Finally, the BATFE, through an arcane, opaque, and indecipherable rule, said that no, they are not legal unless you register the firearm they were attached to as a short barrel rifle.

This process involved contacting ATF and essentially telling them that you wanted to register a regulated firearm that you already had and getting the required tax stamp after acquiring the firearm instead of before. Some well-versed folks opined that you were essentially contacting that most benign of all agencies and telling them that you were a felon and would they please send you a get out of jail card. (The card would most certainly not be free.)

So, unless the most corrupt administration in the history of our great Republic successfully appeals, pistol braces are once again legal under Federal law. If you registered your pistol as an SBR, it appears you now have a strictly regulated firearm, although it is totally unclear what these guns will be considered going forward.

If you chose to ignore this clearly hate-based stupidity, you are now more permanently protected by this ruling. Of course, all of these victories are temporary, but well take what we can get and want to congratulate the Firearms Policy Coalition and the plaintiffs in this case.

Meanwhile, our battles against Measure 114 are moving forward at a glacial pace. We believe our federal lawsuit will take several more years in the courts. The state case, which gun owners are winning at this point, is headed to the Oregon Appeals Court as we speak. There is simply no way to predict the outcome of that one, but it will happen sooner. Victory there is simply essential. If we lose there, gun rights in Oregon could basically end for the foreseeable future.

Those legal bills keep coming in. We would greatly appreciate it if you could donate to our Foundation.

You can donate on this page (which includes mailing info if you prefer to donate by check). Please use the drop-down menu to indicate that your donation is for the Oregon Firearms Educational Foundation. Donations to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

Read more at: AmmoLand.com
Congressional committee opens probe into Bidens DHS as it releases more suspected terrorists at the border

The House Homeland Security Committee, established nearly two decades ago to protect Americans from terrorist attacks, recently launched a probe into the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under the Biden administration after the agency reportedly released suspected terrorists at the southwest border.

U.S. Border Patrol has encountered at least 351 illegal aliens on the Terrorist Screening Data Set entering the country between ports of entry since President Joe Biden assumed the presidency. On May 3, two Jordanian nationals attempted to breach Marine Corps Base Quantico, located about 35 miles south of Washington D.C. The men, who posed as Amazon delivery drivers and drove a truck to the main gate and ignored the guards' orders to stop when they could not provide the required credentials, were among the illegals released at the border.

It is in this connection that the congressional committee started the investigation by demanding action from administration officials, including DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and FBI Director Christopher Wray. The committee sent a letter to these officials, including Chairman Mark Green of Tennessee, to request documents and other information to aid in their probe. This includes communications such as text messages and emails between DHS, the Department of Defense and the Federal Bureau of Investigation related to the incident at Marine Corps installation near Triangle, Virginia. (Related: U.S. southern border has been open to criminals and terrorists for a long time, DHS now admits.)

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.

The lawmakers also asked for documents identifying the names and countries of origin of the truck's occupants and their current alien files, as well as all derogatory information in the Terrorist Screening Data Set associated with any individual who attempted to breach the military compound.

Meanwhile, reports came out saying that top brass at the said military base didn't alert rank-and-file personnel of an attempted breach by the two Jordanians until two weeks after it happened.

"After I [raised the alarm], I had people who work at Quantico messaging me saying, 'Holy fk, when did this happen?'" Matt Strickland, who had first flagged the incident to a local news site, told the New York Post. "Two weeks after it happened Quantico finally put an email out to employees on base letting them know. Citizens have a right to know what is going on in their backyard."

Both men are now in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.

The committee members referenced recent congressional testimony by FBI Director Christopher Wray, who warned that "a wide array of very dangerous threats" emanate from the border, necessitating "much greater vigilance" to protect the country. They argued that DHS's relaxed vetting standards, which align with Biden's aim to increase border admissions, have created an environment that can be exploited by individuals seeking to undermine the United States.

Foiled incursions could be a "dry run" for future terror attacks

According to Strickland, the foiled incursion could be a dry run for a future terror attack and said his experience in the forces has taught him that terror threats are very real. "I spent years in both Iraq and Afghanistan, so I know first-hand, that it is not just people that want to make a better life for themselves crossing the border," he said. "In all my time downrange, every attack that happened, especially with VBEDs [vehicle-borne explosive devices], there was always a dry run, always."

The secrecy according to him was done for political purposes. "The authorities dont want all the information out there because the incompetent government we have are the ones that allowed these people to be in America in the first place. We are in an election year, so they don't want negative stories like that out there," he said.

Meanwhile, a former federal firearms instructor who worked at Marine Corps Base Quantico, also thinks that the strange arrest of two Jordanian nationals in a box truck at the base may have been a "dry run" to test security outside the facility ahead of a terror attack.

"Driving the box truck was a dry run for driving a box truck that was not going to be empty the second time," said Dave Katz, a former Drug Enforcement Administration agent and the CEO and founder of Global Security Group. "Can I prove that? No. But it's like the 9/11 hijackers trying to get aboard planes with box cutters on other occasions prior to actually perpetrating the act."

The two men had no weapons and no prior criminal records which is why authorities had to release them because there was no evidence that they had a terror-related motive. Acting ICE Director Patrick Lechleitner told Fox News Digital previously that the two were facing removal proceedings. However, they have not been publicly identified.

Visit NationalSecurity.news for similar stories.

Watch the video below that talks about the FBI flagging terror threats at the border.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

IMMIGRATION INSANITY: What happened to "If you see something, say something" regarding illegal immigrants who might be terrorists?

Sources include:

YourNews.com

Homeland.House.gov

NYPost.com

FoxNews.com

Brighteon.com
British cardiologist: There could be 50,000 people in the U.K. with MYOCARDITIS due to COVID-19 vaccines

A British cardiologist estimates that as many as 50,000 people in the U.K. developed myocarditis  heart muscle inflammation  after being injected with the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines.

"There's data suggesting that 95 percent of cases are not reported," Dr. Dean Patterson told the U.K. People's Vaccine Inquiry (PVI). "When you correct this level of under-reporting, there could be 25,000 to 40,000 people with myocardits from the COVID-19 vaccines in the United Kingdom. If you correct using my data, it could be 50,000."

The PVI was launched on June 10 by a group of medical experts "fed up by the [British] government kicking the issues around the COVID-19 'vaccines' into the long grass." According to healthcare entrepreneur Jonathan Engler, a prime mover of the group, the U.K. PVI is "loosely modeled on the Canadian version" of the endeavor.

He also recommended the submission made by Doctors for Patients U.K. (DfPUK) to the formal U.K. COVID-19 Inquiry, which was established and remains funded by the British government. Downing Street set up the inquiry to examine the U.K.'s response to and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a view to supposedly learning lessons for the future. (Related: Pirola: New "highly mutated" COVID-19 strain discovered in the U.K.)

DfPUK's submitted its statement to the government inquiry "as part of a moral and public duty to address several concerns, among them the risks associated with COVID-19 'vaccines.'" The group said its submission aligns with the General Medical Council's mandates requiring doctors to act when patient safety is at risk.

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.

DfPUK particularly pointed to the numerous adverse reaction reports submitted to the Yellow Card Scheme  the British equivalent of the U.S. Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). According to the group, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency  the U.K. counterpart of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration  has not yet addressed these reports.

Attempt to hide important evidence discovered

Established in September 2022, DfPUK was formed by a group of doctors alarmed by the disregard of medical ethics. It serves as a platform for sharing and voicing concerns and discussing critical health issues, which have been appropriated by global interests.

British doctors are likewise invited to join DfPUK to share their knowledge, clinical experience and concerns in a professional and friendly setting. The group openly discusses and debates important topics, however controversial, without fear of censure or censorship.

Because the risks of mRNA and other COVID-19 injections outweigh their benefits, DfPUK has also launched The Hope Accord, a petition that calls for an immediate halt and re-evaluation of these products.

Meanwhile, the PVI brings together several expert group who were invited to give evidence to the government-run COVID-19 Public Inquiry. The inquiry's module four, which touches on vaccines, has been concerningly postponed until 2025 with the reasons for doing so unclear. Moreover, it was announced that the Inquiry would not consider the efficacy or all the safety issues of the COVID-19 vaccines.

The professionals who took part in the PVI believe it is in the public interest to facilitate access to expert opinion and relevant clinical observations. There has been a huge failure of public health over the past few years, alongside a complete departure from previously accepted medical ethics.

Visit VaccineDamage.news for similar stories.

Watch Dr. Naomi Wolf discussing the horrific revelations about Pfizer "vaccine" trials at the U.K.'s Royal Courts of Justice below.

This video is from the Greekinsider channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

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COVID-19 vaccine data administrator reveals deaths related to bad batch of Pfizer shots.

VAERS data: 72% of all reported VACCINE DEATHS are attributed to COVID-19 injections.

Sources include:

ExposeNews.com

Brighteon.com
Institutionalized BIAS: Connecticut Bar Association THREATENS lawyers who dare to question the rigged prosecution of Donald Trump

Connecticut Bar Association leadership has threatened lawyers who are brave enough to criticize the rigged court case and prosecution of former President Donald Trump in an extreme example of censorship.

This is according to attorney and George Washington University law professor Jonathan Turley, who said several members of the Connecticut Bar Association have shared messages with him from President Maggie Castinado, President-Elect James T. (Tim) Shearin and Vice President Emily A. Gianquinto with the unsettling warning. The message can also be found on the Connecticut Bar Associations website.

The letter is careful to avoid stating that criticizing the case, judge or jury would be considered unethical conduct, but it does clearly state these criticisms have no place in the public discourse and that they consider them to cross the line from criticism to dangerous rhetoric.

The letter even identifies specific criticisms lobbed at the trial and judge, including sham, rigged, corrupt, unethical and hoax.

It also goes one step further, calling on its members to speak out publicly in supporting the integrity of the proceedings.

It is up to us, as lawyers, to defend the courts and our judges. As individuals, and as an Association, we cannot let the charged political climate in which we live dismantle the third branch of government. To remain silent renders us complicit in that effort, the letter states.

Many believe the subtext here is that those who criticize the case or those involved in it could be disbarred.

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.

Trial's many flaws are attracting plenty of criticism

In the case, a Manhattan jury convicted the former president of all 34 counts in a falsified business records case brought by Democratic Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

However, there were a number of questionable aspects of the case, prompting a slew of criticism. Much of the controversy surrounds the judge, New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan, who had several conflicts of interest big enough that he should have recused himself from the case.

In addition to making political contributions to Biden and several Democratic causes, which means he financially supports the political opponent of Trump, his daughter is a political consultant who has worked for both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. This means that has family has directly benefited financially from their business relationship with Biden.

Some have also cast doubt on the instructions he gave to jurors, telling them that even though they have to decide unanimously that Trump used unlawful means to interfere in the 2016 presidential election, they did not need to reach a unanimous agreement on which specific unlawful means he used.

Turley, who has gone on the record criticizing the indictment, said that he has a problem with the bars suggestion that lawyers are being unprofessional for denouncing the politicalization of the American legal system. He called the letter chilling and characterized Trumps conviction in Manhattan as a flagrant example of such weaponization of the legal system and should be denounced by all lawyers.

Turley wrote: Our legal system has nothing to fear from criticism. Indeed, free speech strengthens our system by exposing divisions and encouraging dialogue. It is orthodoxy and speech intolerance that represent the most serious threats to that system.

He went on to point out that while they may be quick to censor lawyers critical of Trump's trial, the Connecticut Bar Association does not seem nearly as concerned about attacks on jurists when they are conservatives, such as those who attack the religion of conservative Supreme Court justices or attack Justice Samuel Alito.

Sources for this article include:

JonathanTurley.org

DailyCaller.com

CTBar.org
Entire state of Massachusetts suffers from 911 OUTAGE, citizens told to find police officers to report crimes

The entire state of Massachusetts had been hit by an outage of 911 services on Tuesday, June 18.

Journalist Nick Sortor posted about the development on X. "The 911 system is down statewide in Massachusetts, and there is no [estimated time of arrival] on it returning. This comes just weeks after 15 other states suffered similar outages. Why does this keep happening?" he wrote.

He added that first responders in Boston "are literally recommending people go find a police officer or [a] 'fire box' to pull if there's an emergency. Both the Boston Police Department (Boston PD) and Boston Fire Department (Boston FD) posted similar messages on the X platform.

The Boston PD wrote: "911 is currently down statewide. If you experience an emergency please pull a fire box. If you need assistance, please reach out to your local Boston Police District Station." In a separate post, the Boston FD also notified residents of the Puritan City that they can also get emergency assistance at their nearest firehouse.

"Currently, the statewide 911 system is down. Calls are not going through," said Boston Mayor Michelle Wu. She added that residents shouldn't worry about calling the correct number or facility for their emergency, but to just reach out to their nearest authorities.

"We've been in touch with the state and the relevant officials to work on getting this resolved. If you are experiencing an emergency, if you find your way to police, fire or [emergency medical services], we will make sure that you get to the right place."

The State 911 Department, which is under the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) also acknowledged the issue, sending out an alert to mobile phones. The notification read: "911 services are currently down statewide. Delays in public safety response may occur. Call the local public safety business line directly if you or others are having an emergency. More information will be provided when available." (Related: Nationwide 911 outage traced back to Microsoft failures why does Microsoft control 911 services across dozens of cities?)

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.

Bay State's 911 outage also caused confusion in neighboring areas

The disruption of 911 services in the Bay State caused confusion in other states in the northeast, as some residents in those areas also received the notifications on their phones. But authorities in five states  Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New York and Vermont all said their systems were operational.

"We are aware that some individuals in Vermont have received wireless notifications about the Massachusetts event, said Barbara Neal, executive director of the Vermont Enhanced 911 board. "The official reason for that is unknown  but it may be related to individuals having signed up for an alerting system in Massachusetts, or having been at or near the Massachusetts border when the wireless alert was issued."

The Associated Press (AP) later reported that the 911 system in the Bay state was restored. The Massachusetts State Police (MSP) announced the resumption of emergency services following the system's restoration, which meant that people could resume calling 911. However, the MSP did not provide any details behind the cause of the outage.

EOPSS Communications Director Elaine Driscoll said it was unclear how many communities were affected by the outage. According to the AP, it was first reported by several law enforcement agencies at around 1 p.m. on June 18. Services were subsequently restored, with the MSP confirming that emergency services are operational once more at around 3:45 p.m. of the same day.

Head over to Glitch.news for more similar stories.

Watch this video discussing 911 outages being conducted as part of a false flag exercise.

This video is from the SJWellFire: Final Days Report channel on Brighteon.com.

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Austin descends into lawlessness following "defund the police" cuts targeting law enforcement.

RED ALERT as America now just nine meals away from ANARCHY massive civil unrest PROVOKED on purpose.

Sources include:

100PercentFedUp.com

X.com

APNews.com

Brighteon.com
Google executive ADMITS to rigging search results

Video streaming platform Rumble published a video this week of former Google vice president of search products Marissa Mayer admitting that Google Search provides rigged search results.

Google, which owns Rumble competitor YouTube, "arranges" the results on its search page in such a way as to prioritize the official narrative on a given issue or topic, Mayer said. And in all cases, Google's products are shown at the very top of any search so they will receive the most hits.

Rumble's legal team is credited with unearthing the video, which you can watch below. In short, Mayer is presenting the things she says in the below video to a room full of Google recruits, meaning the next generation of Google employees:

?BREAKING NEWS: Our legal team has unearthed a video of Google's former VP of Search Products, Marissa Mayer, laughing to Google recruits about preferencing Google owned products in Google Search. This will be exhibit 1 in our self-preferencing antitrust lawsuit against Google pic.twitter.com/AGD98yyILx  Chris Pavlovski (@chrispavlovski) June 13, 2024

(Related: Speaking of rigged, did you hear about the Somalian "refugee" scam in Minnesota? It sure pays to be a "refugee" in 2024!)

Rumble filing antitrust lawsuit against Google

Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski tweeted the above video to blow the lid on Google and YouTube concerning the unfair way they present information. Regardless of popularity, metrics or other quantifiable criteria, Google and YouTube serve up what Google and YouTube want you to see, not necessarily what you want to see.

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.

Everything that Google and YouTube show to users is based solely on Google's decision to "make it so," Mayer told the room. And because this is now concrete proof of corruption, Rumble believes that it has what it needs to successfully win an antitrust lawsuit against Google.

According to Rumble, Google is guilty of self-preferencing antitrust violations. It even goes so far as to promote certain stock websites over others in the Google Finance module, for example.

"We were actually ordering the links based on various published metrics like Comscore and media metrics," Mayer explained about how stock sites were displayed prior to the existence of Google Finance.

Instead of showing the top five finance sites based on their popularity, which is part of what a search engine is supposed to do, Google Finance always puts "the Google link first."

According to Mayer, it is perfectly "fair" for stock and finance websites to be prioritized by Google rather than the public, though she did not specify how or why this is fair.

"It will be very interesting to see how the U.S. courts view this practice," writes Didi Rankovic for Reclaim the Net. "Not least because in the same video, Mayer is heard confirming that it didn't stop with Google Finance."

Where else did it go, you are probably now asking? According to Mayer, Google Maps is also the first thing that shows up in Google Search when searching for "maps" or other directions-related contents.

"So when we rolled out Google Finance, we did put the Google link first," Mayer explained. "But for Google Maps, again, it's the first link, and so on and so forth. And after that, it's ranked usually by popularity."

The way that Mayer so casually and playfully revealed all of this to her audience, laughing all the while at what Rankovic describes as Google displaying "the unbearable lightness of breaking antitrust law," is something that Rumble hopes to capitalize on in court.

"Rumble is suing Google as an unfair competitor, a giant dominating the market and from that position, preferencing its own products, against antitrust rules," Rankovic explains.

The latest news about the 2024 election can be found at Rigged.news.

Sources for this article include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

NaturalNews.com
WHO accuses Israel of inflicting ACUTE MALNUTRITION on more than 8,000 Palestinian children under 5 years old

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently revealed that the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip has led to severe malnutrition among over 8,000 children under the age of five

During a press briefing held in Geneva on June 12, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that among the 8,000 children under the age of five, identified and provided treatment for acute malnutrition, 1,600 were diagnosed with severe acute malnutrition also known as severe wasting  the most lethal form of malnutrition. Tedros explained that a large portion of the Gaza Strip population is currently facing a catastrophic level of food shortages and near-famine conditions despite an increase in food deliveries.

"A significant proportion of Gazas population is now facing catastrophic hunger and famine-like conditions. Despite reports of increased delivery of food, there is currently no evidence that those who need it most are receiving sufficient quantity and quality of food," Tedros said.

The WHO and its partners have been working to enhance nutrition services within the besieged territory. However, Tedros expressed grave concern over the limited operational capacity in Gaza due to ongoing insecurity and access issues. Currently, only two out of three stabilization centers for severely malnourished children are functional and the plans for opening of new centers have been delayed due to ongoing military operations. (Related: UN probe finds Israel GUILTY of crimes against humanity in Gaza.)

"Our inability to provide health services safely, combined with the lack of clean water and sanitation, significantly increases the risk of malnourished children," he warned. "There have already been 32 deaths attributed to malnutrition, including 28 among children under five years old."

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.

UNICEF: Almost 3,000 malnourished children at risk of "dying before their families' eyes"

Aside from the WHO report, the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) also disclosed similar data about the alarming cases of malnutrition and famine in Gaza.

According to the official website of UNICEF, almost 3,000 children have been cut off from treatment for moderate and severe acute malnutrition due to limited access to food and treatment in southern Gaza. These children are at risk of "dying before their families' eyes" as harrowing violence and displacement continue to impact access to healthcare facilities and services in the area.

"Horrific images continue to emerge from Gaza of children dying before their families eyes due to the continued lack of food, nutrition supplies and the destruction of healthcare services," said UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Adele Khodr.

"Unless treatment can be quickly resumed for these 3,000 children, they are at immediate and serious risk of becoming critically ill, acquiring life-threatening complications and joining the growing list of boys and girls who have been killed by this senseless, man-made deprivation," Khodr added.

In line with this, UNICEF reveals that acute malnutrition treatment for children typically takes six to eight weeks of uninterrupted care with special therapeutic food, safe water and other medical support. These children are even more at risk of catching diseases and other health issues due to limited access to safe water, sewage overflow, infrastructure damage and a lack of hygiene items. But sadly, these alarming cases of malnutrition in Gaza come amid the collapse of malnutrition treatment services.

"Our warnings of mounting child deaths from a preventable combination of malnutrition, dehydration and disease should have mobilized immediate action to save childrens lives, and yet, this devastation continues," Khodr said. "With hospitals destroyed, treatments stopped and supplies scant, we are poising for more child suffering and deaths."

But then, Khodr also disclosed that, if only access would permit, UNICEF could provide enough malnutrition treatment services to those children.

"UNICEF has more nutrition supplies prepositioned to arrive in the Gaza Strip, if access allows," said Khodr. "United Nations agencies are seeking assurances that humanitarian operations can safely collect and distribute aid to children and their families without interruption. We need better operating conditions on the ground, with more safety and less restrictions. But ultimately, it is a ceasefire that children need most."

Follow IsraelCollapse.com for more news about the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Watch Robert Inlakesh explaining the UN's decision to add Israel to the blacklist of countries harming children below.

This video is from the CreeperStatus channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.S. support helped Israel carry out deadly Nuseirat massacre during hostage rescue operation.

New report details Israels systematic sexual abuse and torture of Palestinians.

Israeli strike on UN school in central Gaza kills at least 40 people, most of them children.

South Africa denounces Israels hostage rescue operation at Nuseirat Refugee Camp that killed hundreds of Palestinian civilians.

UN experts call for investigation into Israeli human rights violations against Palestinian women and girls.

Sources include:

TheCradle.co

Bermana.com

Barrons.com

UNICEF.org

Brighteon.com
Malaysia declares intention to join BRICS

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that his country will apply for membership in BRICS . The 77-year-old leader disclosed the decision in an interview with the Chinese outlet Guancha.

"We have made our policy clear and decided to proceed. We will start the formal process soon," Anwar stated. "We are waiting for the final result and feedback from the South African government." (Related: More than 40 additional countries want to join BRICS in 2024; 97 countries to participate in BRICS 2024 Games hosted by Putin.)

Anwar mentioned that he also discussed the matter in a recent meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. BRICS was established in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India and China, with South Africa joining in 2011. In January, BRICS admitted Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) but retained its original name.

Malaysia's potential membership holds strategic importance due to the Malacca Strait, one of the worlds key shipping lanes, situated between Malaysia and the Indonesian island of Sumatra.

Anwar emphasized Malaysia's relief at the rise of BRICS and China, providing "a glimmer of hope" for global checks and balances in a non-unipolar world. He criticized the West for attempting to "control the discourse" globally, asserting that independent countries should be free to express themselves without colonial-era constraints.

Other countries also interested to join BRICS

Russian Ambassador to China Igor Morgulov earlier noted that about 30 countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS. Three other nations in the Asian region  Thailand, Sri Lanka and Vietnam  have already shown interest in the group.

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.

The 2024 BRICS Summit is scheduled for October in Kazan, Russia, with Moscow presiding over the organization since January.

BRICS holds an annual summit to set priorities and make decisions, with the presidency rotating among member countries each year. The expanded group's name has yet to be officially announced, but it may be referred to as BRICS+.

The expanded BRICS now includes major global powers such as China and Russia, alongside influential countries like South Africa and Brazil. With a combined population of approximately 3.5 billion people45 percent of the world's totaland an economic output exceeding $28.5 trillion (about 28 percent of the global economy), BRICS wields substantial influence. The inclusion of Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE means BRICS countries now produce about 44 percent of the world's crude oil.

Despite their significant economic presence, BRICS countries argue that Western nations dominate key global institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, which provide loans to governments. The group advocates for "greater voice and representation" for emerging economies.

In 2014, BRICS established the New Development Bank to finance infrastructure projects. By the end of 2022, the bank had funded nearly $32 billion in projects, including roads, bridges, railways, and water supply systems.

According to professor Padraig Carmody from Trinity College Dublin, China views BRICS as a platform to expand its influence, particularly in Africa, aiming to be the leading voice for the global south. Conversely, Russia sees BRICS as part of its strategy to counter the West and mitigate the impact of sanctions imposed after it invaded Ukraine. Creon Butler of Chatham House suggests that Iran's inclusion might intensify the group's anti-Western stance.

There have been discussions about creating a BRICS currency to reduce reliance on the US dollar for international trade. However, this idea was not addressed at the 2023 summit due to the impracticality of a common currency among BRICS nations with diverse economies. Carmody speculates that in the future, BRICS might consider developing a new currency for international trade payments or a cryptocurrency for the same purpose.

Watch this video discussing why BRICS is one step closer to wiping out the U.S. dollar.

This video is from the What is happening channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Thailand announces intention to join BRICS, accelerating dollars demise.

Russia and China now conducting 90% of financial settlement transactions in national currencies  once the new BRICS currency arrives, its GAME OVER for the U.S. dollar.

Turkey signals desire to join BRICS and abandon EU membership dreams.

Sources include:

RT.com

BBC.com

Brighteon.com
New Jersey doubles down on unconstitutional newborn screening policy despite lawsuit over privacy violations

New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin and the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) have reaffirmed their stance on the state's controversial newborn screening policy following unsuccessful settlement negotiations.

The newborn screening policy, which requires every baby to be tested for 61 disorders within 48 hours of birth, intends to detect numerous rare and potentially deadly conditions in newborns.

However, the program sparked controversy when the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender revealed in 2022 that the New Jersey State Police had utilized years-old blood samples from the newborn screening program to aid in a criminal investigation. The State Police had subpoenaed the testing program to obtain a blood sample from a child whose father was a suspect in an assault case without probable cause for a warrant. The DNA analysis of the child's blood was then used to secure a warrant for the father's DNA, leading to his indictment for a 1996 sexual assault.

Moreover, a subsequent public records lawsuit filed by the Office of the Public Defender and news outlet New Jersey Monitor revealed that the newborn screening laboratory had received five subpoenas from four different law enforcement agencies over approximately five years. (Related: Mass genetic surveillance: Police now seeking access to newborn blood samples to build DNA database for future criminal investigations.)

In line with this, a group of parents represented by the public interest law firm the Institute for Justice (IJ) has filed a class action lawsuit demanding a change to this practice. The class-action lawsuit contends that the state's retention of dried blood samples used in screenings and their repurposing violate privacy protections under the Fourth Amendment. The plaintiffs demand that the courts prohibit the state from retaining newborn blood samples post-screening unless parents are informed about the potential uses and give explicit consent.

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 parents have engaged in repeated discussions with state officials, but these efforts have met staunch resistance from the state.

"I was hopeful that we could reach an agreement that would respect the rights of babies born in this state, but New Jersey still refuses to ask parents for consent to keep baby blood after the initial screening is done. New Jersey also refuses to recognize any wrongdoing in keeping baby blood and continues to deny parents the right to decide whats in the best interest of their own children. Im committed to continuing this lawsuit, so all babies born in this state can be safe from this government overreach," said Hannah Lovaglio, one of the parents involved in the lawsuit.

The plaintiffs have requested the court set a deadline of June 25 for the state to respond to their complaint, a timeline to which state attorneys reportedly did not object.

"New Jersey had the opportunity to fix this problem without litigation. Instead, theyve continued to operate under the flawed belief that these baby blood samples belong to the state, not the children from whom theyre taken," stated IJ Attorney Christie Hebert.

Other states have faced similar legal challenges over retention of baby blood samples

New Jersey is not the only state grappling with legal challenges over the retention of baby blood samples. But unlike New Jersey, other states have agreed to destroy millions of retained blood samples from newborn screening.

For instance, in 2009, the Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas DSHS) announced the destruction of more than 5.3 million blood samples taken without parental consent from babies and stored indefinitely for scientific research after settling a federal lawsuit filed by the Texas Civil Rights Project.

In Minnesota, the state's Department of Health had done the same in 2014 following a settlement with 21 families that resulted in about 1.1 million archived dried blood spot cards and newborn screening test results from its archives being disposed of.

Similarly, the state of Michigan agreed to destroy more than three million dried blood spots taken from babies and kept in storage after a partial settlement in the then-ongoing lawsuit over consent and privacy in the digital age.

Visit PoliceState.news for more stories about questionable methods used in police investigations.

Watch this video about police grabbing people's DNA at checkpoints.

This video is from the channel High Impact Flix And More on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Scientists seek to collect a 'blood database' of all U.S. newborns for 'research' purposes.

Texas ordered to destroy five million blood samples illegally taken from babies without consent.

Newborn screening can cause unnecessary parental stress.

Explosive report: 98% of newborn babies are genetically screened.

Sources include:

Blacklistednews.com

NewJerseyMonitor.com

DallasNews.com

MPRNews.org

MichiganLive.com

Brighteon.com
COLD-BLOODED MURDER: Palestinian civilians were shot execution-style during Gaza hostage rescue operation

According to Palestinian witnesses, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) deliberately shot civilians in their homes "execution-style" while conducting a military operation in Gaza to allegedly rescue hostages held by Hamas.

The Israeli forces also haphazardly bombed other noncombatants from the air, leaving the Nuseirat refugee camp in shambles and with many casualties.

Yedioth Ahronoth, an Israeli newspaper, claimed that the tragic June 8 IDF operation in Nuseirat was almost perfectly executed "in broad daylight."

The report also sang praises for the Israeli troops' "precise intelligence, meticulous planning and execution and quick and professional action" that guaranteed the success of the operation and the rescue of four hostages.

However, Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor (Euro-Med HRM), a Geneva-based independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of human rights, reported that several Palestinian civilians were executed in their homes and on the street as the bloody IDF operation began.

Rami Abdu, Chairman of the Euro-Med HRM, said that based on preliminary testimonies, Israeli troops used a ladder to enter the home of Dr. Ahmed Al-Jamal. They then promptly executed Fatima al-Jamal, 36, when they saw her on the staircase.

Next, the Israeli troops executed her husband, Abdullah al-Jamal, 36, and his father Ahmed, 74. The soldiers also shot Ahmed's daughter Zainab, 27, who sustained serious injuries. Reports revealed that this was the house where Noa Argamani, 26, an Israeli conscript and captive, was being held. (Related: Israels invasion of Rafah risks new MASSACRE, Jordans King Abdullah II warns Biden.)

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.

Abdu also said Israeli troops shot Muhammad Salhiya in the head while he was sitting on a chair and reading the Quran in his home in the refugee camp. He added that Euro-Med HRM had originally documented field executions and killings in at least seven homes during the operation in Nuseirat.

"In this world, the blood of a white westerner is equivalent to the lives of thousands of innocent non-westerners," said Abdu. He also highlighted that Western and Israeli press focused on the fate of the four rescued Israeli captives rather than the dozens of innocent civilians killed.

The three other rescued captives, who were called "the diamonds" by the IDF, were Almog Meir Jan, 21, Argamani, Andrey Kozlov, 27, and Shlomi Ziv, 40.

While people cheered throughout Israel as the hostages were reunited with their loved ones, the families in Gaza mourned. According to reports from health officials, around 274 people were killed during the IDF raid, including dozens of children.

The recent attack has forced two populations to deal with the ongoing Israel-Palestine war, which has now reached its ninth month. According to health officials, the latest death toll has topped 37,000, with more than 100 hostages still being held in Gaza.

Palestinian witnesses say Israeli troops "indiscriminately bombed" the Nuseirat refugee camp

Euro-Med HRM has compiled a preliminary list of the identified Palestinian victims in the June 8 Nuseirat massacre, which was conducted by the IDF in under one hour.

At a press conference, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, an Israeli army spokesman, claimed that the operation began at 11 a.m. and "was a high-risk, complex mission based on precise intelligence conducted in daylight in two separate buildings deep inside Gaza."

His comments led some to believe that Israeli forces only bombed the Nuseirat camp and killed hundreds of civilians to clear the way so the IDF and the hostages could escape.

According to Palestinian witnesses, Israeli forces bombed the Nuseirat refugee camp in several locations before they heard any fighting break out. Their reports suggest that the bombing was conducted to create chaos and prepare the way for the beginning of the rescue operation.

According to a woman from Nuseirat, the attack began sometime around 10:30 a.m. The refugee camp was bombed by different types of aircraft while "drones fired at anyone moving."

Comparing the bombing to "the Day of Judgment," the woman said she saw people around her "torn apart," with their limbs "scattered everywhere." She added that the IDF "truly annihilated" the people in the Nuseirat refugee camp.

The woman was also surprised as bullets rained down on her and the others at the refugee camp, with flames spreading around them. She also described how she gathered the remains of her dead son's body, which was torn to shreds by the devastating attacks.

Meanwhile, a Palestinian man said Israeli special forces who were disguised as civilians infiltrated the Nuseirat refugee camp in a car and a large truck used for delivering humanitarian aid. He added that the Israeli forces riding the truck were "carrying clothes and cooking pans."

When the driver in the car put a mask on, people gathered around. Next, the masked driver reversed the vehicle and drove it next to the truck.

People then started saying that the people in the car and the truck were Israeli special forces. The attack took place while civilians were standing in the street, and the man added that "nobody knew what was going on."

In a statement, the United Nations said the IDF attack was "heinous," adding that Israeli troops "entered Nuseirat disguised as displaced persons and aid workers in a humanitarian truck."

"These tactics put aid workers and the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid at even greater risk and expose an unprecedented level of savagery in Israeli military actions," continued the statement.

Visit IsraelCollapse.com for more stories about the Israel-Palestine war.

Watch this clip of body cam footage from the IDF's surprise attack at the Nuseirat refugee camp.

This video is from the CreeperStatus channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.S. official claims Iran did not issue a warning before its attack on Israel  but Tehran actually did, and the mainstream media reported it.

Israel captures Rafah crossing, leaving 27 people dead and cutting vital lifeline of Palestinians.

CENSORSHIP: Israeli government orders SHUTDOWN of Al Jazeera news and broadcast offices.

Netanyahu warns Biden he will "punish" Palestinian Authority if ICC issues arrest warrants against Israeli leaders.

Sources include:

TheCradle.co

YNetNews.com

NBCNews.com

Brighteon.com
Seattle PD to hire ILLEGALS with DACA status as cops

Seattle has decided to hire illegals , particularly recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, to solve the staffing issue of the city's police department.

The Emerald City is joining the growing list of left-wing areas that are seeing severe shortages of law enforcement officers. Because of this, the Seattle Police Department (Seattle PD) has utilized a law signed by Gov. Jay Inslee that permits DACA recipients to become police officers. The law also allows them to apply to become city firefighters, fish and wildlife officers and deputies of county sheriffs.

According to officials, the Evergreen State is home to more than 14,000 DACA recipients, who received relief from deportation and the ability to legally work under the 2012 federal program. To qualify, DACA participants must have come to the U.S. before their 16th birthday and lack legal authorization to live in the U.S., plus pass a rigorous criminal background check.

In April, Jason Rantz of KTTH 770 reported that staffing on the Seattle PD is at levels not seen in 67 years. The police department said in an email that as of Dec. 31, 2023, the department only had 424 active-duty police officers. A human resources document obtained by Rantz further hammered the problem  of the 424 officers, 66 were eligible for retirement and 84 were over the age of 50. (Related: Seattle mayor demands FEWER WHITE MEN in citys police department, leaked memo reveals.)

Meanwhile, a member of the Seattle Police Officer's Guild told Law Enforcement Today that the anti-police mindset of the city administration has prompted officers to leave the Seattle PD in droves.

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.

While the exodus was exacerbated due to the anti-police sentiments embodied by left-wing city leaders during the George Floyd riots, it had actually started the year before, when the city passed an accountability ordinance targeting cops. Among the "highlights" of that ordinance was giving leftist activists subpoena power while removing arbitration rights away from police officers.

DACA police officers now allowed to carry firearms

In February, former Seattle PD Chief Adrian Diaz  who was still in the position at the time  told a Seattle City Council Committee that staffing at the department dropped. From more than 1,400 sworn officers in 2017, this fell to fewer than 1,050 last year. Seattle Fire Department Chief Harold Scoggins also told the committee that his department has 120 open firefighting jobs.

One issue facing DACA recipients becoming police officers is that they are in the country illegally. This means they aren't generally permitted to carry a firearm. However, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) under President Joe Biden has ruled otherwise.

"It is ATF's position that DACA recipients can possess duty firearms and  ammunition as part of their official law enforcement officer duties," according to the Police Executive Research Forum.

The ATF argues that if a bona fide citizen officer is required to possess a firearm at all times, whether on- or off-duty, it is legal for DACA recipients to possess firearms in either capacity. However, if the police department they work for does not have such a requirement, DACA recipients are only able to possess firearms while on duty and must turn it in at the end of each shift.

California and Colorado have already passed laws opening up law enforcement jobs to DACA recipients. Similar measures have been introduced in New Jersey and Virginia. In one example, the Los Angeles Police Department modified its department policy so that DACA recipients can possess their firearms while on duty. Under the same policy, DACA recipients' off-duty hours are now considered part of the "performance of their official duties."

Head over to Migrants.news for more stories like this.

Watch Breanna Morello and John Zadrozny talking about a poll that found 62 percent of Americans backing the deportation of illegals.

This video is from the MyPodcastDropped2320 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Floridas Gov. Ron DeSantis ENDS SQUATTER RIGHTS so police can remove illegal immigrants from rightful owners homes.

MOBS of Chinese illegal immigrants SWARM California border.

New York City provides prepaid debit cards to illegal immigrants.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams warns illegal immigrants will DESTROY the city.

ICE data: Illegal immigrants have less than 5% chance of getting deported under current Biden administration policies.

Sources include:

LawEnforcementToday.com

Brighteon.com
White House calls on tech giants to censor all video clips of Joe Biden behaving like a dementia patient, claiming such videos are fakes

Joe Bidens displays of mental incompetence have become so egregious that his team is now calling on Big Tech firms to censor video clips in which his confusion is on full display.

During a parachute display and skydiving demonstration at the G7 summit in Southern Italy last week, he can be seen wandering off from a group of world leaders during a planned photo opportunity, appearing to completely miss the presentation taking place in front of him and turning in the other direction to talk to an officer who was packing up a parachute. He had to be guided back to his place by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who had to walk toward him backward so she could continue to face her fellow leaders.

Video footage of this senior moment quickly circulated online as people wonder how someone who is so mentally unfit could run our country for another four years. This prompted a number of fact check labels and accusations from the media that the clip is being shared without providing context and that somehow the aging president isnt nearly as senile as the clip would imply.

As usual, the censor-happy Biden administration has taken this one step further, with Biden campaign spokeswoman Adrienne Elrod calling the footage disinformation despite being legitimate and calling on social media platforms to remove it or limit its distribution.

Thats right; Biden acts like a dementia patient on the world stage, and desperate and delusional liberals think they can just use their Big Tech connections to scrub it entirely, like it never happened.

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.

Speaking to MSNBC, she said: Were going to do what we can to combat it but it does take the voices of surrogates across the country. It does take the media to call it out. It does take social media platforms where a lot of Americans are getting their information to point it out as well.

Its not surprising this would be their go-to tactic considering how well it worked for them during the pandemic and the run-up to the 2020 election when they managed to get the Hunter Biden laptop story buried, despite it being 100% true.

Biden's team will have a lot to censor as he seemingly has a new gaffe every day

Theyre going to have a pretty big job if they have to spend their time seeking out every example of Joe reminding us of his fragile mental state and try to make it disappear as he seems to have a new gaffe every day.

On another recent trip to Europe, this one to an event commemorating D-Day, after shaking hands with French President Emmanuel Macron, he started to fumble around for a chair behind him with a lost look on his face, completely oblivious to the fact that everyone was remaining standing until his wife had to whisper something to him to set him straight.

In a recent interview with ABC News while he was in France, he said he has known Russian President Vladimir Putin for over 40 years. Many people quickly pointed out that this would mean they met during a time when Putin was an undercover KGB intelligence officer. In fact, Putin was not a public figure until 1999, and Biden has only met him once, at a meeting in Geneva in June 2021.

In May, he said at a Jewish American Heritage Month event that a hostage being held captive by Hamas was in attendance at the event at the White House. In February, he claimed he had spoken to German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, who passed away in 2017.

His staffers have admitted that the elderly president sometimes loses his focus during private conversations. His general confusion was also exposed by Special Counsel Robert Hur in his report on the investigation into Bidens improper retention of classified records. He said that his "memory also appeared to have significant limitations," with specific examples such as forgetting when he was vice president and when his son Beau died.

As his condition continues to decline, he is going to need an entire team of censors to try to discredit the growing evidence of his unsuitability for office.

Sources for this article include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

FoxNews.com
Trump: Biden is providing material support for terrorism

(Article by Steve Watson republished from Modernity.news)

Under Biden, theres been a 3,000 percent increase in the number of people on the terror watchlist crossing into our country from the southern border  3,000 percent, Trump continued.

He added, that comes from the Border Patrol. Our country is going to pay a steep price for many, many years. This is a terrible thing thats happened.

During a speech in Florida Friday night, Donald Trump charged that Biden is guilty of "providing material support for terrorism. Full article here: https://t.co/qEUY4X2ChKpic.twitter.com/E4dJZ8dyIO  m o d e r n i t y (@ModernityNews) June 15, 2024

It is clear at this point that any kind of vetting process at the border has gone out of the window.

Indeed, eight suspected terrorists from Tajikistan were arrested in New York, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles last weekend.

8 men from Tajikistan with possible ISIS-K ties were arrested in American cities. pic.twitter.com/gocpMhBrzu  The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) June 11, 2024

They are suspected to have ties with ISIS and came over the southern border.

My thoughts tonight regarding the news today that 8 nationals of Tajikistan w/ suspected ISIS ties were arrested after crossing the southern border illegally & initially had no derogatory info flag during vetting. For years, my border contacts have told me vetting is inadequate. pic.twitter.com/vB3EPZitzx  Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) June 12, 2024

As we have previously highlighted, untold numbers of terrorists have already crossed into the country unimpeded. Theyre even being caught and released again.

Trump has warned that an army of illegal immigrants from all over the world is being assembled by Americas enemies to be readied for attacks from within the country.

I think they want to get us from within. I think theyre building an army they have something in mind, he recently asserted.

Trump warns America's enemies are "building an army," of fighting age male illegal immigrants in order "to get us from within," further asserting "they have something in mind. Full report here: https://t.co/QQNcmWGmqdpic.twitter.com/6v0y1CCn93  m o d e r n i t y (@ModernityNews) May 24, 2024

Trumps full Friday speech is below:

Read more at: Modernity.news
In an unprecedented celestial event, NASA's vigilant eyes on Mars have captured a spectacle that has both illuminated the Martian atmosphere and provided a wealth of data for future human exploration.

The solar storm, which peaked with an X12-class flare, has been the most significant in recent memory, bathing the Red Planet in energetic light and prompting a surge in radiation levels that could have implications for future astronauts.

Auroras and Radiation: A Martian Light Show

The solar maximum, a period of peak solar activity, has long been anticipated by Mars scientists. Their predictions came to fruition as a series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections cascaded towards Mars.

The most notable of these, an X12-class flare, occurred on May 20, sending a barrage of X-rays and gamma rays towards Mars.

The charged particles from the coronal mass ejection followed, creating a stunning display of Martian auroras, captured in ultraviolet wavelengths by NASA's MAVEN orbiter.

These auroras, typically invisible to the naked eye, were detected as bright purple hues on the Martian nightside, a visual testament to the storm's power.

The charged particles also caused visual disturbances on Mars' rovers and orbiters, with NASA's Curiosity rover capturing evidence of the storm's charged particles arriving at the Martian surface.

Implications for Human Exploration: Shielding Our Future Explorers

The data collected during this solar storm is invaluable for planning future manned missions to Mars.

The Curiosity rover's Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD) recorded a radiation dose equivalent to 30 chest X-rays, marking the highest surge since the rover's landing 12 years ago.

This information is crucial for developing protective measures for astronauts who may one day traverse the Martian landscape.

NASA's Moon to Mars Space Weather Analysis Office closely monitored the event, providing insights into the timing and intensity of the incoming charged particles.

The analysis suggests that natural Martian features like cliffsides or lava tubes could offer additional shielding from such radiation events.

Also Read: Solar Storm Alert: Geomagnetic Storm to Hit Earth Soon Following New Year's Eve Solar Flare [SWPC]

Beyond the Storm: Preparing for the Martian Environment

As humanity sets its sights on the Red Planet, understanding and preparing for the Martian environment becomes paramount. Mars presents unique challenges and opportunities for human exploration.

From its thin atmosphere composed of 96% carbon dioxide to its extreme temperature fluctuations, Mars is a world that demands respect and rigorous preparation.

Periodic dust storms on Mars can last for months, making nuclear fission power a more reliable option than solar power.

The gravity on Mars is about one-third of that on Earth, which means that if you weigh 100 pounds on Earth, you would weigh only 38 pounds on Mars.

These conditions, along with the potential for radiation exposure from solar storms, require innovative solutions for sustainable living and exploration.

Lighting the Way to Mars

The recent solar storm has not only illuminated Mars with an ethereal glow but has also highlighted the challenges and preparations needed for humanity's next giant leap - setting foot on the Red Planet.

As NASA continues to monitor and study these solar events, the knowledge gained will light the way for the astronauts who will one day call Mars their temporary home.

Related article: Can a Solar Flare Be Powerful Enough to Wipe Out All Life on Earth?
People with travel plans should consider the weather forecast this week due to potentially severe thunderstorms in the central and eastern U.S., bringing heavy rains, flash floods, and isolated tornadoes.

In nearby areas, the forecast monitors the development of a low-pressure system in the Western Gulf of Mexico, warning of heavy to excessive rainfall in South Texas. Residents should stay alert for a flooding risk in areas near banks and small creeks.

Although astronomical summer is fast approaching this June, homeowners should still keep alert for the likelihood of severe thunderstorms, tropical development, and hurricanes

Weather in Kansas and Chicago: Where will thunderstorms unload this week?

According to a weather report published on June 19, the forecast monitors the daily threat of powerful thunderstorms over the central and eastern U.S. The main concerns are gusty winds, flooding, heavy rains, and tornadoes

Commuters should watch out for travel dangers, including flooded roads, and slippery commutes. The repeated downpours can help unleash flooding concerns, resulting in a major travel disruption.

Rounds of rain and a flooding potential are forecast in the following areas:

Fargo

Duluth

Minneapolis

Sioux Falls

Omaha

Green Bay

Thunder Bay

The latest weather advisory for Duluth warns of heavy rain along the North Shore and the likelihood of river rise, especially in Baptism River, Silver Bay, and Highway 61. Northern Minnesota can also experience possible flooding risk. Additionally, the forecast noted threats of gusty winds and brief tornadoes.

In Kansas City, residents can anticipate developing heat and humidity throughout the week. On Wednesday, thunderstorms are likely, and there is little to severe weather potential. Another concern is locally heavy rainfall in northwestern Missouri.

A widespread severe risk is forecast for midweek in parts of the Plains and Midwest, including Texas and Oklahoma. The main concerns are localized damaging winds, hail, and flash floods in the following areas:

Dodge City

Hays

Amarillo

Kansas City

Des Moines

Dubuque

Chicago

Milwaukee

In Chicago, travelers can still anticipate a continuing hot weather outlook this week. However, periodic chances for storms and showers are still likely. These isolated storms can unleash lightning strikes, gusty winds, and small hail.

On Thursday, possible severe thunderstorms can continue in Detroit, Buffalo, Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Scranton, Albany, Burlington, Portland, and Bangor.

In Dodge City, the forecast is monitoring the development of a line of thunderstorms in the region and southeast. Similar threats can unload, but heavy rain is the primary concern.

Also Read: Florida Weather Forecast: Tropical Development to Unleash Local Flash Flood, Rough Surf This Week

Weather Preparedness in Chicago and Kansas City: How Can Homeowners Stay Safe?

The latest weather report raised concerns about flooding and tornado potential in the eastern and central U.S., warning of slower commutes and power outages. When conditions don't improve, it is best to stay at home until the weather improves.

In addition, homeowners can prepare emergency kits at home that will be useful when evacuation occurs or when they become stranded due to severe weather.

Related Article: Texas Weather Forecast: Excessive Rainfall, Widespread Thunderstorms to Bring Travel Dangers This Week

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
In late September 2022, the Nord Stream gas pipeline, located at the bottom of the Baltic Sea, suffered a catastrophic explosion near Bornholm.

This event led to one of the largest recorded releases of methane-a potent greenhouse gas-into the environment.

The Explosion: Unraveling the Events



Initially, large bubbles were seen on the water surface, and elevated methane levels were detected in the atmosphere.

However, a significant discovery was made when researchers from the University of Gothenburg conducted an expedition to the site.

They found that a substantial amount of methane, estimated between 10,000 and 50,000 tons, did not escape into the atmosphere but instead dissolved into the Baltic Sea.

The study, published in Scientific Reports, utilized isotopic analysis to differentiate the methane from the pipeline from that naturally present in the water.

This distinction is crucial as it provides a clear indication of the pipeline's impact on the marine environment.

Despite the rapid release of methane, the water's stratification-layers formed due to temperature and salinity differences-remained stable, preventing major mixing of water masses.

The Environmental Impact: A Closer Look

The environmental repercussions of the Nord Stream gas leak are complex and multifaceted. The dissolved methane has spread over large areas and is being processed by bacteria in the water.

While methane is naturally present in the water, formed during the decomposition of organic material in the bottom sediments, the sudden influx from the pipeline presents a new variable.

The researchers have noted that it is too early to determine the full impact of the increased methane levels on the biological life in the southern Baltic Sea.

The expedition also included researchers who collected plankton samples from the affected area.

These samples are currently under analysis, and the results will provide further insight into the biological impact of the methane release.

A follow-up expedition three months later showed that the methane had likely been diluted in a larger body of water as the sea temperature dropped and the water mixed during the autumn season.

Also Read: Nord Stream 2 Pipeline Construction Generates Seismic and Infrasonic Waves in the Baltic Sea

Geopolitical Ramifications: Beyond the Environmental Crisis

The Nord Stream gas leak is not just an environmental issue but also a geopolitical puzzle.

The pipeline, which carries natural gas from Russia to Germany, has been a focal point of political tensions, particularly in the context of Europe's energy policy and relations with Russia.

The cause of the explosion and the responsible parties remain subjects of intense international investigation and speculation.

Various unconfirmed reports have pointed fingers at Russia, the United States, and Ukraine, filling an information vacuum as the official investigations continue.

What are the potential consequences of this methane leak?

The aftermath of the Nord Stream gas leak has raised significant concerns due to the potential environmental and geopolitical consequences.

The release of methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide in trapping heat, poses a serious threat to climate change efforts.

In the ocean, this methane can lead to a decrease in oxygen levels and increase in acidity, which can disrupt marine ecosystems and affect marine life.

Additionally, the presence of other chemicals in natural gas, such as benzene, can have further detrimental effects on water quality and human health.

Economically, the disruption of a major natural gas supply route has implications for energy markets and political relations, especially between Europe and Russia.

The full extent of the impact is still being studied, but it is clear that the leak could have lasting effects on the environment, international politics, and the global fight against climate change

Conclusion

The Nord Stream gas leak presents a scenario that intertwines environmental science with geopolitical intrigue.

As the world closely watches, researchers continue to analyze the data and monitor the situation, reminding us of the unpredictable nature of such disasters and the importance of scientific investigation in shaping our response to environmental crises.

Related article: Understanding Nord Stream Methane Leaks: Environmental Impacts, Action Plans Identified
The fairy lantern plant is known for stealing nutrients from the underground fungal mycelia fungi to survive. However, it is also popular across the scientific community due to its unique qualities from its other green counterparts, such as deviating from the biological process of photosynthesis. Scientifically known as Thismia rodwayi, this non-chlorophyllous plant can be found in Australia and New Zealand, at least.

Now, a new study earlier this year shows that scientists found a new plant species of fairy lantern plant in Peninsular Malaysia, called Thismia Malayana. The research paper suggests that this is a new member of the mycoheterotrophic genus Thismia native to the said Southeast Asian country. In a separate 2023 study, scientists also re-discovered a fungi-eating fairy lantern plant in Japan, 30 years after its perceived extinction.

The existence of fairy lanterns shows the possibility of symbiosis between fungi and plants. For millions of years, animals and plants have been subjected to parasitic fungi, causing potential health hazards to the living organism host. Regardless, the 2024 study led by researchers in Malaysia indicate that the relationship between these organisms can be mutual or the other way around, as shown by the fungi-eating plants.

What are Fairy Lantern Plants?

Fairy lantern plants are relatively rare compared with their other green counterparts, since they only grow in specific places in the world, including in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. In a media release earlier this year, Kobe University in Japan confirmed that some fairy lanterns are being re-discovered and are still obtaining nutrients from other organisms.

While having green leaves and the ability to engage in photosynthesis are the main biological traits of plants, some flora on Earth have abandoned these key features, the university adds. One of the most recent rediscoveries took place in Japan, which led to the unearthing of the fairy lantern Thismia kobensis. Findings of the East Asian fairy lantern was published in the journal Phytotaxa in February 2023.

Also Read: Small Barrel Cactus to be Delisted as Threatened Following Data Analysis

Thismia Malayana

In a more recent study published in the journal PhotoKeys in May 2024, researchers discovered a new plant species under the genus Thismia. The fairy lantern plant, called Thismia Malayana, was found in Peninsular Malaysia's two localities. The first site was in the lowlands of Gunung Angsi Forest Reserve in the state of Negeri Sembilan. The second is in Pahang state's Tengku Hassanal Wildlife Reserve.

Just like other fairy lantern plants, T. Malayana is unable to produce chlorophyll and is not capable of photosynthesis, according to the research paper. However, authors of the study point out that the new plant species can grow and survive by feeding off the nutrients and water from underground fungi. Following these discoveries, scientists have not ruled out the existence of other fairy lantern plants in other parts of the world.

Related Article: Fairy Lantern That Eats Fungi Rediscovered 30 Years After Extinction in Japan
Lu Chao, head of the marketing department at Zhejiang Xinqiaoyuan International Logistics Co, has been facing a tough time over the past five weeks. Though her freight forwarding company, which is based in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, has successfully booked cargo space on ships, securing shipping containers for loading goods has proved difficult. To locate empty containers, Lu and her team members have been diligently making online reservations, adhering to a strict daily schedule. "If we don't get them today, there won't be any more available. We will start again tomorrow afternoon," said Lu. She said booking containers online has become a key daily task, sometimes even requiring assistance from all the staff members of the company. Sharing a similar experience, Guo Xinxin, head of customer service at Zhejiang Xiecheng International Freight Forwarding Co in Yiwu, Zhejiang, said a significant portion of her daily workload involves scrambling for containers. "Container truck drivers also have to be quick. Once they receive the pickup bar code, they must relentlessly search for empty containers. If they are too slow, the containers could be reassigned to other companies," said Guo. The tight supply of containers is primarily due to ships rerouting and delays caused by the ongoing tensions in the Red Sea region, along with a surge in demand driven by a large number of new container vessels being built and launched, said Li Muyuan, executive vice-president of the China Container Industry Association in Beijing. To meet the shipping needs of foreign trade companies and improve the efficiency of container use, some shipping companies have reduced the time to pick up empty containers from 48 to 72 hours previously, to just 24 hours now, said Li. Jin Xiaomin, chairman of Zhejiang Kingston Supply Chain Group Co Ltd, another Yiwu, Zhejiang-based exporter, said due to a shortage of containers, several exporters and shipping companies have begun buying their own. Prices of secondhand containers have also soared. The cost of a used container was around 15,000 yuan ($2,068) at the beginning of the year, but has surged to 23,000 yuan early this month. At Ningbo Xinhuachang International Containers Co, a container manufacturer based in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, trucks loaded with bamboo wood flooring and steel coils continue to arrive at its workshops. The company said that the raw materials in its warehouse can only meet production needs for two to three weeks. Ningbo Xinhuachang is now operating on a two-shift schedule to meet order volume. Two months ago, it was operating a single shift. "Our production capacity is currently at an unprecedented high since the founding of our company. There is a possibility that in June and July, we may even surpass the levels achieved in May," said Zhang Zhuohui, the company's assistant president. This is because of high demand from clients at home and abroad, and the order volume is substantial and urgent, said Zhang. The sudden surge in orders has also led to a supply shortage of upstream raw materials. Additionally, the rainy season in certain parts of China is affecting the situation, making the supply of bamboo wood flooring particularly tight, he added. In addition to shipping traditional goods like household appliances, machinery and clothing through containers, many automakers have also relied heavily on these freight boxes to ship their vehicles abroad, forced by a situation of insufficient car carriers. This has also added to high demand for containers, said Liu Shuang, an official at Beilun Customs, a branch of Ningbo Customs. For instance, Ningbo Port exported a total of 64,000 vehicles in the first four months. Of these, around 50,000 were shipped using containers. This has also driven an increase in container usage. Affected by the extended international shipping cycle on certain routes, manufacturers in Fujian province exported 526 million yuan worth of new containers from January to April, up 686 percent year-on-year, data from Xiamen Customs showed. China's container throughput at its ports rose 9 percent year-on-year to 104.03 million twenty-foot equivalent units between January and April, according to data released by the Ministry of Transport in May. Major players like France's CMA CGM Group, Germany's Hapag-Lloyd AG and Denmark's Maersk Line have all reported substantial rate increases in recent months, with some hikes reaching up to $2,000 and several routes experiencing over 50 percent increases. These adjustments span numerous routes connecting Asia with Europe, North America and South America. For example, CMA CGM said that starting May 15, the rate for a TEU on the Asia to North Europe route would be adjusted to $2,700, and the rate for a 40-foot container (FEU) will increase to $5,000, which represent increases of $500 and $1,000, respectively, compared with rates implemented on May 1. Maersk started to impose a peak season surcharge on routes from Asia to the west coast of South America, Central America and the Caribbean from June 1. The surcharge is $1,000 for a TEU and $2,000 for an FEU. As various shipping companies announced price increases, including surcharges, the freight rates from Ningbo Port to some ports in Latin America have jumped from about $2,000 per FEU in the offseason to $9,000-$10,000 this month, said Pan Jiangbo, a business manager at Ningbo Qianheng International Logistics Co, another Ningbo-based freight forwarder. Similarly, the basic freight rates to Europe in early June have risen by nearly $1,000 compared to May, reaching close to $6,000 per FEU, and may even rise, said Pang. The continued hike in freight rates is being mainly driven by operational safety concerns in the Red Sea region, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games (from July 26 to Aug 11) and a surge in demand for goods in many regions across the world. Freight rates are likely to rise in the short term, he added. Yang Changyong, a researcher with the Academy of Macroeconomic Research under the National Development and Reform Commission, said the current scenario is expected to persist for another two or three months. July and August mark the conventional peak shipping season, while August and September represent the busy season for global e-commerce businesses. Anticipating uncertainties in trade policies due to the US general elections later this year, several US retailers and businesses have rushed to order products from Chinese exporters to replenish stocks, Yang said. Generally, long-term contracts offer prices that are lower than spot market rates, but when the former are much lower than the latter, shipping companies prefer to fulfill spot contracts. Consequently, the management and allocation of low-priced space are stringently controlled, said Lin Meng, director of the Modern Supply Chain Research Institute at the Beijing-based Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation. Overall, the freight forwarding sector is witnessing higher earnings compared to the offseason, though far from reaching the peak of 2021 when global supply chains were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and obstructions in the Suez Canal, Lin said. Whether the rates will rise by Christmas season depends on global developments. Judging from the current circumstances, the situation of high freight costs will not last particularly long, she added.
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Srinagar declared as 'Temporary Red Zone' for drone operation

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head of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Jammu and Kashmir on June 20, the authorities on Tuesday declared Srinagar as a 'Temporary Red Zone' for drone operations.

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to participate in the 10th International Yoga Day on June 21 in Srinagar.

More than 6,000 other participants will join the Prime Minister on International Yoga Day on the banks of the Dal Lake at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Complex in Srinagar.

"Srinagar has been declared as "Temporary Red Zone" for the operation of drones and quadcopters as per provisions of Rule 24(2) of Drone Rules, 2021, with immediate effect.

"All unauthorised drone operations in the red zone are liable to be penalised as per relevant provisions of Drone Rules, 2021. As responsible citizens, your cooperation is solicited in this regard," Srinagar police said on its official X page on Tuesday.

 Srinagar declared as 'Temporary Red Zone' for drone operation

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Mallika Sherawat says 'Hawaii Five-0' required her to step out of comfort zone, 'wipe away make-up'

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ctress Mallika Sherawat recalled playing an Afghani character on the 2010 American series 'Hawaii Five-0' and said that the role required her to step out of her comfort zone and wipe away the make-up.

The actress took to Instagram and shared a series of pictures from the sets of 'Hawaii Five-0', an action police procedural series revolving around a special police major crimes task force in Hawaii, operating under the governor's command.

In the post, Mallika, who essayed the character of Farah Khan in the show, wrote: As an actress, playing an Afghani character on the American series Hawaii Five O was a refreshing and profoundly rewarding departure from the usual glamorous roles typically offered.

She continued, This role required me to step out of my comfort zone, wipe away all the make up and embrace a character whose life experiences and struggles are vastly different from the typical portrayals of luxury and ease.

Talking about her work, Mallika, who made her Bollywood debut in 2002 with Jeena Sirf Merre Liye, was last seen in the comedy-drama RK/RKay, directed by Rajat Kapoor. The film also features Ranvir Shorey, Manu Rishi Chadha, and Kubbra Sait.

 Mallika Sherawat says 'Hawaii Five-0' required her to step out of comfort zone, 'wipe away make-up'

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As US lawmakers meet the Dalai Lama, upcoming film narrates story of Tibetan resistance

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t a time when Tibet is in the news because of the meeting of US lawmakers with the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala, noted Tibetan filmmaker has announced the release of his upcoming film, 'Four Rivers Six Ranges', which promises to narrate the lesser-known story of Tibetan resistance and resilience.

The film, made by Tibetan refugees in India, the US, Canada and Nepal, sheds light on the journey of the Tibetan resistance group, 4R6R, which successfully escorted the Dalai Lama, avoiding the long arm of China's People's Liberation Army, to the Indian border on March 26, 1959.

Shenpenn Khymsar, a renowned Tibetan filmmaker, musician, and activist, who has helmed the film, has a history of using his art to highlight the Tibetan cause.

The announcement coincided with the visit by a US Congressional delegation led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, and which included former Speaker Nancy Pelosi. They met the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala on Wednesday.

The delegation's visit highlighted the ongoing international interest and support for the cause of Tibetan autonomy and the human rights situation in the region.

The historical narrative of the Dalai Lama's escape, depicted in Khymsar's film, is not just a tale of the past, but a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle for freedom and justice of the Tibetan people.

That the struggle does not seem to have an easy resolution is evident from China's warning that it would take "resolute measures" if President Joe Biden signs the bipartisan Resolve Tibet Act passed by the US Congress. The Act seeks to enhance US support for Tibet and promote a dialogue between the People's Republic of China and the Dalai Lama for a peaceful resolution of the long-standing dispute between the two.

Khymsar's film, according to a press note, draws from his deep personal commitment to Tibetan culture and his experiences while growing up in exile. With 'Four Rivers Six Ranges', Khymsar aims to bring the untold stories of ordinary Tibetans on to the global stage.

Incidentally, Shenpenn Khymsar's co-producer is Dorjee Wangdi Dewatshang, whose father, Kunga Samten, was one of the warriors of Chushi Gangdruk (Four Rivers Six Ranges).

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Uttar Pradesh to begin Sarus Crane census on Thursday

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he Uttar Pradesh government, under the direction of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, will commence the Sarus census on Thursday.

The counting of Sarus cranes, which is the state bird, occurs twice a year, during both summer and winter seasons.

In 2024, the counting will take place over two days starting Thursday, with sessions to be conducted both in the morning and evening and cooperation of officers and employees of the Forest Department, as well as students and nature lovers.

The Yogi Adityanath government's efforts to conserve the Sarus crane are showing promising results. In the 2023 count, 19,522 Sarus cranes were recorded in Uttar Pradesh.

Each Divisional Forest Officer will submit the count and photographs of cranes found in their respective divisions to the Chief Forest Conservator, Eco Development, Lucknow by July 1.

The Sarus cranes are counted twice annually, during the summer and winter. The summer count for 2024 will take place on June 20 and 21. For this, the Divisional Forest Officer will be the coordinator of their respective areas. The forest guard will be the leader of the counting team.

The highest count between these two sessions will be considered the actual number. Additionally, GPS readings will be taken at each counting site.

In regions with abundant wetlands, it is recommended to form multiple teams for the Sarus crane count. Public awareness initiatives will inform the general population about this effort. Schools, colleges, children, nature enthusiasts, and NGOs are encouraged to participate in the count, and participants will receive certificates for their involvement.

Over the years, the Sarus crane population has shown significant growth.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, 17,329 cranes were recorded in the state in 2021. This number increased to 19,188 in 2022 and further to 19,522 in 2023.

With the upcoming count scheduled to begin on Thursday in 2024, it is anticipated that the crane population will continue to rise.

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A recent study published in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine investigates drug-related infant death patterns in the United States between 2018 and 2022.

Study: Increases in drug-related infant mortality in the United States. Image Credit: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock.com

Infant mortality in the U.S.

Infant deaths are defined as deaths that occur between the time the child is born and one year of age. As compared to the previous year, there was a 3% increase in the overall infant mortality rate in the U.S. in 2022, with an estimated infant mortality rate of 5.6 deaths for every 1,000 live births that year. Infant mortality rates due to maternal complications and bacterial sepsis, both of which are leading causes of infant death, also increased during this period.

In many cases, drugs are directly involved with or contributing to factors related to infant mortality. Infants can be introduced to various drugs through maternal use, illicit or non-medical use of drugs, and accidental intake of specific prescriptions.

Recently, there has been a significant increase in drug overdose deaths in the general population, including among pregnant and postpartum women. Since drug-related deaths are potentially avoidable causes, these events must be seriously investigated to reduce the rate of infant deaths.

Drug-related infant mortality in the U.S.

The current study explored the temporal trend in drug-related infant deaths between 2018 and 2022 in the U.S. To this end, all relevant data were obtained from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER).

A total of 295 drug-involved infant deaths were recorded between 2018 and 2022, which reflects 0.29 % of the 102,110 total infant deaths that occurred during this period. Between 2018 and 2022, there was an increase in drug-related infant deaths from 10.8% to 24.4%. Comparatively, one previous study reported a significantly lower drug-related infant mortality rate of 0.64 % between 2015 and 2017.

Although most drug-related infant deaths were recorded in 2021, the highest number of fatalities was recorded in 2019, followed by 2022. Importantly, this period was also associated with a significant rise in drug overdose mortality among both pregnant and postpartum women.

At the end of 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged, with its subsequent widespread transmission ultimately leading to the declaration of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in March 2020. To date, many studies have investigated the severe impact of pandemic-related lockdowns on psychiatric health and related behaviors. The potential relationship between these effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on drug overdoses among pregnant and postpartum women, combined with the increased rate of drug-related mortality among infants, necessitates further research.

Several studies have shown that substance use, including opioids and cocaine, can lead to adverse birth outcomes such as low birth weight and premature birth, which increases the risk of infant mortality. Reduced prenatal care during the pandemic and hospital closures, particularly in rural areas, may have also contributed to the increase in drug-related infant fatalities.

Infant mortality has also been associated with maternal health, living conditions, and economic development. As compared to different race and ethnic groups, non-Hispanic White and Black infants were associated with a higher number of drug-related infant deaths.

Conclusions

The current study estimates an alarming 2.2-fold increase in the U.S. infant mortality rate associated with drugs between 2018 and 2022. Some notable limitations of the current study include the descriptive study design and methodology, which may have omitted crucial drug-related information.

In the future, more research is needed to identify the specific drugs that increase the risk of infant mortality and patterns of perinatal substance use. It is also crucial to develop effective strategies to reduce death rates by preventing maternal substance use and enhancing prenatal care access. New strategies could be created by collaborating with different stakeholders, including public health agencies, health providers, and community partners.
While research has uncovered many details about how blood cells function within bone marrow, the work of other cells existing in that space remained a relative mystery. Now, researchers from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) have published a "bone marrow atlas" in Cell that provides a first-of-its-kind, full view of all the cells existing within it, offering a better understanding of both healthy and diseased blood production.

For the first time, we will have a comprehensive framework to view the full gene expression and spatial organization of bone marrow cells. Although our paper is foundational, we envision the atlas will be used to develop new diagnostic tests, identify new CAR-T or other therapeutic targets, and discover spatial biomarkers of disease." Kai Tan, PhD, senior study author, professor of Pediatrics in the Perelman School of Medicine and an investigator in CHOP's Center for Childhood Cancer Research

Bone marrow mostly consists of blood cells, however, a small percentage of non-blood cells may play an important role in conditions such as leukemia, other blood cancers, or bone marrow failure syndromes. Through the team's efforts, researchers and doctors now have a much clearer picture of the functions of the rarer, but key, cells in the bone marrow such as stromal cells, bone cells, and endothelial (blood vessel) cells.

By using single-cell RNA sequencing, the researchers were able to capture the full gene expression profiles of tens of thousands of individual cells, uncovering the complete mix of cell types that make up an organ.

Through work aided by both an artificial intelligence technique called machine learning and painstaking hand-labeling of individual cells, the team was able to discern both that healthy bone marrow has very distinct spatial organization and stromal cells are more closely associated with blood-producing cells than previously understood.

As a result, researchers were able to create an encyclopedia cataloguing which of these rare non-blood cells produce factors known to be important in human blood production, which will help guide researchers to focus future studies.

"When applied to leukemia patient samples, these techniques identify the expansion of mesenchymal cells, a type of rare non-blood cell, at the cancer cell site in the bone marrow," said the study's co-senior author Ling Qin, PhD, a professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Penn Medicine. "This reveals a potential new direction for future disease treatment."

The study is part of the broader Human BioMolecular Atlas Program (HuBMAP), which is comprised of 42 diverse research teams at universities across 14 states and four countries, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Researchers are collaborating to create the next generation of molecular analysis technologies and computational tools, which will allow researchers to create foundational tissue maps and construct a full map, or atlas, of the function and relationships among cells in the human body.

"Studies of this magnitude are only possible with monumental team efforts," said Shovik Bandyopadhyay, PhD, a lead author of the study and a physician-scientist in-training in Tan's lab. "With the collaboration of multiple institutions and scientific consortia, we were able to gain fundamental insight into the microscopic building blocks of the human body."

Overall, the team is optimistic about the doors their techniques and research are opening.

"We are just beginning to scratch the surface of what's possible," Tan said. "Future research can build on our work, expediting bone marrow studies with the hope that one day these digital pathways will lead to healthcare breakthroughs in acute leukemia and other bone marrow disorders."

This research was supported by the NIH Common Fund, through the Office of Strategic Coordination/Office of the NIH Director under awards U54 HL156090 and U54HL165442 (to KT). Additional support includes National Institutes of Health of United States of America grants U2CCA233285 (to KT), R01AG069401 (to LQ), and P30AR069619 (to The University of Pennsylvania). MD was supported by NIH NIDDK T32DK007314. ShB was supported by NIH T32GM007170, T32 HL007439, and F30CA277965.
As space travel becomes more common, it is important to consider the impacts of space flight and altered gravity on the human body. Led by Dr. Ana Diaz Artiles, researchers at Texas A&M University are studying some of those impacts, specifically effects on the eye.

Gravitational changes experienced by astronauts during space travel can cause fluids within the body to shift. This can cause changes to the cardiovascular system, including vessels in and around the eyes.

As the commercialization of space flight becomes more common and individual space travel increases, astronauts will not be the only ones experiencing these changes. Individuals traveling to space with commercial companies may not be as fit or healthy as astronauts, making it even more important to understand the role that fluid shift plays in cardiovascular and eye health.

When we experience microgravity conditions, we see changes in the cardiovascular system because gravity is not pulling down all these fluids as it typically does on Earth when we are in an upright position. When we're upright, a large part of our fluids are stored in our legs, but in microgravity we get a redistribution of fluids into the upper body." Diaz Artiles, assistant professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering and a Williams Brothers Construction Company Faculty Fellow

These fluid shifts may be related to a phenomenon known as Spaceflight Associated Neuro-ocular Syndrome (SANS), which can cause astronauts to experience changes in eye shape and other ocular symptoms, such as changes in ocular perfusion pressure (OPP). At this time, researchers are unsure of the exact cause of SANS, but Diaz Artiles hopes to shed light on the underlying mechanism behind it.

Diaz Artiles and her team are investigating potential countermeasures to help counteract the headward fluid shifts of SANS. In a recent study, they examined the potential aid of lower body negative pressure (LBNP) to combat SANS. This countermeasure has the potential to counteract the effects of microgravity by pooling fluid back into the lower body.

While the role of ocular perfusion pressure in the development of SANS remains undetermined, Diaz Artiles and her team hypothesized that microgravity exposure could lead to a slight but chronic elevation (compared to upright postures) in OPP, which may have a role in the development of SANS. The results of the recently published study showed that lower body negative pressure, while effective in inducing fluid shift toward the lower body, was not an effective method for reducing OPP. Should elevated ocular perfusion pressure be definitively linked to SANS, the use of LBNP could theoretically not be an effective countermeasure to this syndrome. But they emphasize that future work should seek to better understand the relationship between OPP and SANS, and the impact of LBNP on these ocular responses as part of the countermeasure development.

"This research is just one experiment of a three-part study to better understand the effects of fluid shift in the body and its relationship to SANS. Previous experiments in this study included the use of a tilt table for researchers to understand the cardiovascular effects of fluid shifts at different altered gravity levels, recreated by using different tilt angles," said Diaz Artiles.

The published study, as well as upcoming research, focuses on countermeasures to the fluid shift; in this case, lower body negative pressure. In future studies, the researchers will examine the effects of using a centrifuge to combat the fluid shift and its effects. Diaz Artiles and her team aim to collect cardiovascular responses using each countermeasure and compare effects on ocular perfusion pressure and other cardiovascular functions that may be affected by microgravity environments. These studies are performed on Earth, so gravitational changes that occur in space may cause different outcomes. Thus, they hope to conduct future studies in true microgravity conditions, such as parabolic flights.
The Federal Drug Administration approved a clinical trial to test the effectiveness of an electronic grid that records brain activity during surgery, developed by engineers at the University of California San Diego.

The device with nanoscale sensors records electrical signals directly from the surface of the human brain in record-breaking detail. The grid's breakthrough resolution could provide better guidance for planning and performing surgeries to remove brain tumors and treat drug-resistant epilepsy.

The grid's higher resolution for recording brain signals could improve neurosurgeons' ability to minimize damage to healthy brain tissue. During epilepsy surgery, the novel grid could improve the ability to precisely identify the regions of the brain where epileptic seizures originate for safe and effective treatment.

The new brain sensor array, known as platinum nanorod grid (PtNRGrid) features a densely packed grid of a record-breaking 1,024 embedded electrocorticography (ECoG) sensors. The device rests on the surface of the brain and is approximately 6 microns thinsmaller than one tenth of the human hairand flexible. As a result, it can both adhere and conform to the surface of the brain, bending as the brain moves while providing high-quality, high-resolution recordings of brain activity. In contrast, the ECoG grids most commonly used in surgeries today typically have between 16 and 64 sensors. These grids are rigid, stiffer and more than 0.5 mm in thickness and do not conform to the curved surface of the brain.

The PtNRGrid was invented by Shadi Dayeh, a Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of California San Diego and members of his team. Over the years, the team developed the PtNRGrid technology in collaboration with neurosurgeons and medical researchers from UC San Diego, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).

This accomplishment ushers in a new era of clinical neuroscience and neuromonitoring. We are very excited to receive the FDA approval to apply our groundbreaking PtNRGrid in a clinical setting. It is a credit to the hard work of my team members who worked tirelessly to meet the quality criteria mandated by the FDA. I am also grateful to my clinical partners, the support of the NIH, and to the campus leadership that fostered an impactful ecosystem across engineering and medicine to transform the future of healthcare." Shadi Dayeh, Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California San Diego

The FDA approved an investigational device exemption (IDE) for a "pivotal study [titled] "Systematic Evaluation of Platinum Nanorod Grids (PtNRGrids) for Intraoperative Mapping and Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) During Brain Surgeries."

Specifically, the clinical trial is designed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the PtNRGrid device to map both normal and pathological brain activity. During the trial, UC San Diego engineers will partner with clinician-scientists: Drs. Sharona Ben-Haim and Eric Halgren at UC San Diego, Dr. Sydney Cash at MGH, and Dr. Ahmed Raslan at OHSU. In a first phase, surgeons will implant the PtNRGrid in 20 patients, then measure and compare the grid's performance with the present state-of-the-art. The PtNRGrid will be deployed in surgeries to remove brain tumors and to remove tissue that causes epileptic seizures.

Record-breaking density

Dayeh's team has pioneered human brain and spinal cord mapping with thousands of channels since 2019, and has reported early safety and efficacy results in a series of articles published in Science Translational Medicine in 2022 in human subjects. PtNRGrid is the only device with thousands of channels to demonstrate in peer-reviewed publications that it can map motor and language brain activity, as well as epileptic discharges, by producing panoramic videos of brain waves over 10 square centimeters of the brain's cortex while maintaining resolution at a microscopic level.

Currently, Dayeh's research group holds the world record of recording brain activity from a single cortical grid with 2,048 channels on the surface of the human brain published in Science Translational Medicine in 2022. The device was used in the operating room of Dr. Ahmed Raslan of the OHSU. Since then, the team has increased the number of recording channels to 4,096 and continues to work on increasing the number of channels in the grid to monitor brain activity in even higher resolution.

Pending success of this staged trial, the team will transition to the next crucial step of making the PtNRGrid available for commercial use at scale. Demonstrating that ECoG grids with sensors in the thousands of channels record brain activity with high fidelity also opens new opportunities in neuroscience for uncovering a deeper understanding of how the human brain functions. Basic science advances, in turn, could lead to improved treatments grounded in enhanced understanding of brain function.

"Our goal is to provide a new atlas for understanding and treating neurological disorders, working with a network of highly experienced clinical collaborators at UC San Diego, MGH, and OHSU," Dayeh said.

Dayeh's work toward the FDA approval is supported by an NIH BRAIN Initiative award # UG3NS123723.
Swiss research institute established to focus on immune engineering and advancing global child and adolescent health.

The Botnar Institute of Immune Engineering (BIIE) is launching as an independent research institute in Basel/Switzerland with a mission to develop novel immune-based diagnostics and therapeutics and address gaps in advanced healthcare technologies, thus improving the health of children and young people around the globe.

The BIIE is supported for the first 15 years by an endowment of over 1 billion USD from Fondation Botnar.

Planned inaugural partnerships with the University of Oxford and ETH Zurich will further expand the BIIEs capacity and global reach as it develops computational tools, diagnostics, therapeutics, and preventative medicines as well as train the next generation of immune engineers.

As a priority, BIIE program outputs will be of benefit to the health of young people in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

A new independent research institute, the Botnar Institute of Immune Engineering (BIIE) is launching in Basel, Switzerland.

The Botnar Institute of Immune Engineering (BIIE) is a newly founded non-profit research organization focused on developing computational tools and immune-based translational solutions for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease. Outstanding investigators from around the globe will be recruited to its facility in Basel, Switzerland, to form a new hub of innovation in immune engineering.

The BIIE is made possible by the generous endowment of over 1 billion USD (to be provided over 15 years) from Fondation Botnar, a Swiss philanthropic foundation working to improve the health and well-being of young people around the world.

Strategic partnerships

The Institute will establish strategic partnerships with internationally renowned public and private research institutions and work with philanthropic organizations that support its mission in the Global South. Inaugural strategic academic partners are planned with ETH Zurich, Switzerland, and the University of Oxford, UK, with additional global partners to be announced in the future.

The BIIE will move into a new purpose-built research facility in 2027. In the interim, the BIIE is planned to be hosted by the Department of Biosystems Science and Systems Engineering (D-BSSE) of the ETH Zurich, a newly opened state of the art facility in Basel. The D-BSSE operates at the intersection of systems biology, bioengineering and computational biology. Prof. Christian Wolfrum, ETH Zurich VP of Research noted, Close collaborations with an immune engineering institute in Basel further accelerates the development of medical solutions, and compliments the program goals of ETH Zurich D-BSSE. Hosting the inaugural class of BIIE scientists is an ideal opportunity to develop a lasting partnership through joint professorships, student training programs, and shared infrastructure.

In its first international partnership, the BIIE intends to work with the University of Oxford to create the Basel-Oxford Centre of Immune Engineering, plans include professorships and student training programs as well as access to the extensive global clinical research capabilities of Oxford University. Prof. Sir Andrew Pollard, Fellow of the Royal Society and Director of Oxfords Vaccine Group stated, Looking no further than recent events, one can see that immune engineering is a catalyst in the rapid development of globally accessible therapeutics, in particular, vaccines. Through this partnership with BIIE, Oxford researchers will benefit from vibrant collaborations that advance basic and clinical research specific to children and adolescents in low- and middle-income countries. BIIEs strengths in biocomputation and immune engineering mean this partnership will further accelerate discovery as well as the creation of safe and effective medicines for children around the world.

Organization, leadership and team

Established to realize the vision of Fondation Botnar, the Foundation for Immune Engineering for Global Child and Adolescent Health (FIE) and its Board of Trustees will govern and oversee the BIIE as it grows into a vibrant Institute of up to 300 scientists and support staff.

The FIEs Board of Trustees are notable for their accomplishments in academia, biotechnology and finance. Inaugural FIE Board Chair, Dr. Dominik Escher, a molecular biologist turned biotech entrepreneur and Managing Partner at Pureos Bioventures, summarized the opportunity, Building a critical mass of immune engineers in Basel with a shared goal of improving the health of young people globally is both inspiring and complex. Each FIE Trustee brings extensive expertise and leadership experience to the BIIE: Prof. Jennifer Cochran (Stanford University), Dr. Andrew P. May (DCVC Bio), Prof. Gunilla Karlsson Hedestam (Karolinska Institute), Prof. Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola (University of Lagos), Joe Stadler (UBS).

In line with our mission to improve the wellbeing of young people, Fondation Botnar has made a bold investment to unlock scientific innovations specifically for the benefit of child and young peoples health in low- and middle-income countries. Understanding the immune system of children and young people in different parts of the world is key to developing solutions that can diagnose, prevent and treat infectious diseases and other health conditions. With this investment in an independent institute that provides cutting-edge research in immune engineering, not only we continue the Botnar familys frequent support of biomedical research, but also firmly believe to make a difference in the translation of scientific innovation into healthcare practice. Dr. Alexander Schulze, Interim CEO, Fondation Botnar

The BIIE management team is composed of scientific leaders. Prof. Sai Reddy (ETH Zurich) shall assume responsibilities as Scientific Director, Prof. Georg Hollander (University of Oxford, University of Basel, ETH Zurich) will be the Director of Global Engagement. Dr. Stephen Wilson, the Chief Executive Officer of the BIIE (fmr. Chief Operating Officer, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, USA), said, The BIIE will bring together a critical mass of investigators, all of whom are experts in various aspects of immune engineering; combining their strengths and perspective should result in a sum greater than its parts. Every element of our operation will be designed to maximize collaboration, including the physical layout of the facility, which interweaves computational and experimental groups, along with frictionless access to cutting-edge instrumentation. Because we are focused on translating discoveries in the lab into real-world solutions, our researchers will enjoy tremendous latitude as well as the institutional support necessary to advance promising discoveries into clinical development.

Immune engineering with a global vision

The emerging field of immune engineering leverages advanced technologies to understand and develop immune-based solutions for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases. Integrating expertise in immunology, molecular and cellular engineering, genomics, artificial intelligence and other computational methods enables scientists to study immune responses at an unprecedented level of detailfrom how individual cells react to pathogens to how genetic diversity within populations influence such responses. The immune system has been harnessed to treat a wide array of disorders, from infectious diseases to autoimmune disease and cancers. The BIIE will focus its research efforts on developing new approaches to improve health outcomes for children and adolescents, especially those in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), who are often the most neglected and in need.

Global impact is only possible with genuine global engagement., Prof. Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor of University of Lagos and FIE Trustee said, There are significant opportunities to elevate clinical research in the Global South if immune engineering tools are developed with specific intent; and with the establishment of the BIIE, we intend to remove barriers for research that improves the lives of children.
Australian researchers, led by Monash University, have invented a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool which is poised to reshape virtual screening in early stage drug discovery and enhance scientists ability to identify potential new medicines.

Although computational methods within drug discovery are well established, there is an indisputable gap when it comes to novel AI tools capable of rapidly, robustly and cost-effectively predicting the strength of interactions between molecules and proteins  a critical step in the drug discovery process.

The Australian invention PSICHIC (PhySIcoCHemICal) brings together expertise at the interface of computing technology and drug discovery to offer an entirely new approach.

Published in Nature Machine Intelligence, the study demonstrates how PSICHIC uses only sequence data, alongside AI, to decode protein-molecule interactions with state-of-the-art accuracy, while eliminating the need for costly and less accurate processes such as 3D structures.

Dr Lauren May, co-lead author from the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS), said the team has already demonstrated that PSICHIC can effectively screen new drug candidates and perform selectivity profiling.

Comparison of experimental and AI predictions of a large compound library against the A1 receptor - a potential therapeutic target for many diseases - demonstrated PSICHIC could effectively screen and identify a novel drug candidate. Moreover, PSICHIC was able to distinguish the functional effects of the compound or, in other words, the way in which the drug might affect our bodies, Dr May said.

There is enormous potential for AI to completely change the drug discovery landscape. We foresee PSICHIC reshaping virtual screening and deepening our understanding of protein-molecule interactions.

Data scientist, AI expert and lead author, Professor Geoff Webb from Monashs Department of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, said while other methods for predicting protein-molecule interactions already exist, they can be expensive and falter in their ability to predict a drug's functional effects.

The application of AI approaches to enhance the affordability and accuracy of drug discovery is a rapidly expanding area. With PSICHIC, our team has eliminated the need for 3D structures to map protein-molecule interactions, which is a costly and often restrictive requirement, Professor Webb said.

Instead, PSICHIC identifies the unique 'fingerprints' of specific protein-molecule interactions by applying AI to analyze thousands of protein-molecule interactions, resulting in faster and more effective screening of drug compounds without the need for rendering protein or molecule structures in high-resolution 3D.

Dr. Anh Nguyen, co-lead author from MIPS with strong expertise in AI approaches to drug-receptor interactions, emphasized the importance of these interactions.

Interactions between molecules and proteins underpin many biological processes, with drugs exerting their intended effects by selectively interacting with specific proteins. There have been significant global efforts to develop new AI-based methods to accurately determine how a molecule might behave when it interacts with its protein target - after all, this is the core building block to making medicines. Dr. Anh Nguyen, Co-lead author, MIPS

First author Huan Yee Koh, a PhD candidate from Monashs Faculty of Information Technology, highlighted the motivation behind the design of PSICHIC for drug discovery.

AI has the potential to dramatically improve the robustness, efficiency and cost at multiple stages during the drug discovery process, from early stage discoveries right through to predicting clinical responses. However, since many AI systems fundamentally rely on pattern matching, these systems can suffer from unrestrained degrees of freedom. This can lead to memorization of previously known patterns rather than learning the underlying mechanisms of protein-ligand interactions, ultimately hindering the discovery of novel drugs, Mr Koh said.

PSICHIC addresses this issue by incorporating physicochemical constraints into its AI model when learning from sequence data. This enables PSICHIC to attain capabilities in decoding the mechanisms underlying protein-ligand interactions directly from sequence data, bypassing the need for costly structures and making drug discovery more efficient and reliable.

Professor Shirui Pan, co-lead author and an ARC Future Fellow with the School of Information and Communication Technology at Griffith University, said the fact PSICHIC requires only sequence data for operation means it is uniquely accessible.

Compared to previous deep sequence-based methods, this approach provides a more faithful representation of the underlying protein-molecule interactions, thereby closing the performance gap between sequence-based methods and structure-based or complex-based methods.

The PSICHIC team has made their data, code, and optimized model available to the broader scientific community.
Series two of Wonderhoods Super Surgeons: A Chance at Life will air on 18 June, giving viewers exclusive behind-the-scenes access to The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, a world-leading comprehensive cancer center.

The second series, filmed predominantly in the Chelsea site of The Royal Marsden, includes stories from younger adults living with rare and recurrent cancers and showcases innovative robotic surgery.

Super Surgeons: A Chance at Life (4x60) follows cancer patients and the clinical teams who treat them, featuring some of the worlds most complex and challenging oncological cases.

Patients Anthea, Cameron, Rich, Tracy, Lauren, Matthew, Jonathan, and Dave share their stories across the four episodes with their Royal Marsden Super Surgeons, Professor Vin Paleri, Mr Asif Chaudry, Mr Myles Smith, Mr Shanu Rasheed, Professor Andy Hayes and Professor David Nicol.

Across the series, we see a patient diagnosed at just 18 years old, the removal of a 16cm neck tumor and a radical pelvic exenteration  where almost all of the organs in the pelvis are removed. Surgeries included in the series are truly pioneering in their field, with one episode showing the first ever robotic surgery on a patient with sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma, an extremely rare oesophago-gastric cancer.

I do this job to help people. It is a technical exercise, but for me it's literally one person helping another human being. That's why I do this job and I'm doing it in this context in an operating theatre. The ability of one human to help another human, I think, is one of the, if not the most beautiful things in the world. Mr Shahnawaz Rasheed, Consultant Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Surgeon

Anthea, 18-year-old sarcoma patient from the series, said: I decided to take part in the programme to help represent young people with cancer as, most of the time, content about the disease is aimed at older people. I also want to show others you can be happy when youre going through difficulties. I hope it will be a way to support others without actually being there.

The new series of Super Surgeons: A Chance at Life will air weekly on Channel 4 from 18 June. The full series box set will be available on demand on the Channel 4 website from 18 June.

Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust said: Its been a pleasure having the Super Surgeons team back into The Royal Marsden to document the great work of our surgeons and staff across the hospital as well as follow our amazing patients through a very difficult time in their lives.

I want to thank those involved, especially the surgeons and patients that opened their lives to the show  and to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity who often fund our work. We hope the series will do more to raise awareness of the different types of cancer, but also encourage people to seek support or go to their GP if theyre experiencing symptoms.

The Royal Marsden opened its doors in 1851 as the worlds first hospital dedicated to cancer diagnosis, treatment, research and education. The Royal Marsden and its principal academic partner, The Institute of Cancer Research, are ranked as one of the top comprehensive cancer centers in the world for the impact of their research.

The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity raises money solely to support the Trust, ensuring Royal Marsden nurses, doctors and research teams can provide the very best care and develop life-saving treatments -which are used across the UK and around the world.

From funding state-of-the-art equipment and ground-breaking research, to creating the very best patient environments, The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity will never stop looking for ways to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.
In a recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health-Western Pacific, researchers comparatively examined epidemiological evidence from Chinese megacities to assess the influence of their distinct urban growth trajectories across time on the health of their aging residents.

Study: Urban health advantage and penalty in aging populations: a comparative study across major megacities in China. Image Credit: mehdi33300/Shutterstock.com

Background

Cities are critical for infrastructure, services, and economic growth, and urban life is associated with improved health consequences due to increased accessibility to healthcare, education, and transportation.

However, decentralization in affluent nations has resulted in poverty, crime, and drug usage in urban areas, as well as pollution, overcrowding, and health disparities.

There is a life expectancy disparity in China, and understanding the link between wellness and urban growth is critical for enhancing healthy aging among individuals and maintaining improved life expectancy. Most research focuses on urban-rural disparities, with limited emphasis on evidence-based health disparities inside cities.

About the study

In the present study, researchers used high-resolution geospatial demographic data to investigate complex interactions between urban environments and urban planning with individual-level health outcomes in elderly individuals living in China's six megacities: Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin, Chengdu, and Chongqing.

The researchers examined empirical data demonstrating resource and pollution disparities within and across cities. They used spatiotemporal fluctuations in green space, air pollution, and night lighting in the cities to measure environmental parameters and economic activities.

Over 20 years, researchers in China monitored air pollution changes [particulate matter with a diameter less than 2.5 m (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3)], green spaces [measured by the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)], road infrastructures (ring road regions), and night lighting.

Over 16,824 individual years, the researchers followed 4,992 older adults (mean age, 88 years). They used the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) data to investigate the impact of air pollution on China's elderly population. They collected PM2.5 data from the Atmospheric Composition Analysis Group and NO2 data from global NO2 land use regression (LUR) models.

The researchers estimated ozone concentrations using the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model, population density, climatic factors, and road height and length.

They used Google Earth Engine, China's Resource and Environment Science and Data Center information, and the Gridded Population of World Version 4 (GPWv4) population data to determine average night illumination.

Cox proportional-type hazard regressions calculated hazard ratios (HR) to estimate the relative risk of socioeconomic and environmental variables on survival.

The researchers evaluated 14 factors to determine longevity, including age, ethnicity, biological sex, residence, marital status, education, occupation, household income, alcohol consumption, smoking, exercise, sports, and the count of points of interest (POI) medicinal facilities, scenic spots, and leisure care-associated areas within a radius of 5.0 km.

The researchers calculated the unweighted population attributable fraction (PAF) of all-cause mortality using environmental, socioeconomic, and geographic risk variables.

Results

Among the participants, 58% were female, 98% were Han Chinese, 72% did not live with their spouse, 89% engaged in manual labor, 53% had no formal education, 65% had never smoked, and 69% had never consumed alcohol.

Survival rates were higher by geographical closeness to sites of attraction. Older adults residing in POI-rich regions exhibited a 35% to 36% reduced death risk compared to elders from POI-poor regions for the uppermost and lowermost quartiles, respectively.

Higher levels of air pollution, such as NO2 and PM2.5, were linked to a 10% (HR, 1.1) and 21% (HR, 1.2) increase in death risks per 10 g m-3, respectively.

Annual average PM2.5 and NO2 levels ranged from city centers to outskirts in Shanghai, Chongqing, Chengdu, and Guangzhou, with Beijing being the most impacted. Ozone levels were higher in Beijing, Shanghai, and Chongqing's outskirts but not in Tianjin.

Night lighting levels decreased from inner to outer ring road locations in all six megacities. Higher night light levels were associated with improved health outcomes in fully adjusted models.

The study discovered a strong link between medicine-related facilities and death, with continuous counts indicating an HR of 0.98.

From 1999 to 2019, the three-year average concentration of PM2.5 in megacities climbed with variation before progressively declining, with a sluggish fall followed by a surge from 2010 to 2013. The evolution trend exhibited an "M" form that was most visible in Shanghai.

Conclusion

The study showed that city centers frequently inhabited by individuals with better socioeconomic status provide easy access to public services and economic events, which might alleviate the adverse health outcomes of diminished green spaces and increased air pollution.

The findings show that polycentric city spatial development, balanced infrastructure, natural areas, and reduced air pollution can result in age-friendly cities that enhance health. The findings can help urban planners and health authorities design more egalitarian, age-friendly communities.
Union Budget 2024: Union minister for finance & corporate affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, on Wednesday, chaired the first pre-budget consultation with Indias leading economists.

This crucial meeting set the stage for the upcoming full budget formulation, bringing together top economic minds to provide valuable insights and recommendations. The meeting was also attended by senior officials from the ministry.

Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. @nsitharaman chairs the first Pre-Budget Consultations with leading economists in connection with the forthcoming General Budget 2024-25 in New Delhi, today, the finance ministry posted on social media platform X.

Nirmala Sitharaman is set to become the first finance minister to present seven consecutive Union Budgets, surpassing the record of Morarji Desai, who had presented six budgets in a row.

Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. @nsitharaman chairs the first Pre-Budget Consultations with leading economists in connection with the forthcoming General Budget 2024-25 in New Delhi, today.The #PreBudget consultation meeting was also attended by Union pic.twitter.com/ylVvfv3CtM  Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) June 19, 2024

The #PreBudget consultation meeting was also attended by Union Minister of State for Finance Shri @mppchaudhary; Finance Secretary; Secretaries of Departments of Economic Affairs, Revenue, Financial Services and Corporate Affairs; and Chief Economic Adviser, Government of India, the post added.

Earlier, the ministry had invited suggestions on direct and indirect taxes and changes in laws to reduce compliances for the 2024-25 budget from trade and industry associations.

The suggestions could include changes in the duty structure, rates and ideas on broadening of tax base on both direct and indirect taxes giving economic justification for the same, as per the ministry.

For changes in customs and excise duties, the trade and industry would have to supplement and justify their demand with relevant statistical information about the production, prices, and revenue implications of the changes suggested.

The request for correction of inverted duty structure would have to be supported by value addition at each stage of manufacturing of the commodity.

About direct taxes, the ministry said the suggestions could be also on reducing compliances, providing tax certainty and reducing litigations.

It said the government policy in the medium term is to phase out tax incentives, deductions and exemptions while simultaneously rationalising rates of tax.

Lok Sabha Session

The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha will begin on June 24 during which new members of the Lower House will take oath and the Speaker will be elected.

President Droupadi Murmu will address a joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on June 27 and is likely to outline the new governments roadmap for the next five years. The session will conclude on July 3.

The first three days of the first session will see the newly elected leaders taking oath and electing the Speaker of the House.

Budget Session

The full budget for 2024-25 is expected to be presented in Parliament in the second half of July.

Both Houses of Parliament are expected to reconvene in the third week of July for the presentation of the Union Budget.
As much as 20 percent equity stake in Indus Towers was sold in block deals on June 19, with UKs Vodafone Group being the likely seller. The deals, involving 53.30 crore shares of the mobile tower company was worth a total of Rs 17,065 crore.

Following the large deals, shares of Indus Towers fell 6% to Rs 320.60, while Vodafone Idea stock was also trading 1.3% down at Rs 16.64 at the time of writing this article.

While Moneycontrol could not immediately identify the parties involved in the transaction, CNBC-TV18 reported citing sources that Vodafone Group was eyeing to offload up to 18 percent stake in Indus Towers.

According to reports, private equity firms I Squared Capital and alternative investment firm Stonepeak were among the list of buyers vying for Vodafones stake in the mobile tower company.

Based on the report, Abhilash Pagaria, Head  Nuvama Alternative & Quantitative Research, anticipated a float adjustment for Indus Towers in passive indices to take place in the next few days.

He estimated a global passive flow impact of $200 million emerging out the float adjustment. As per Pagaria, an inflow of around $130 million is expected through Indus Towers float adjustment in the MSCI index and an influx of another $65 million through the changes on the FTSE.

It was previously reported that the Vodafone Group was planning to offload a near 10 percent stake in Indus Towers in a bid to raise $1.1 million.

Before the transaction, Vodafone PLC held 567.2 million shares or 21% stake in the tower company after it sold a 7.1% stake in early 2022.

This could be the second-largest block deal executed in India after the ITC transaction in March, where British American Tobacco Plc (BAT) sold a 3.5% stake in ITC through an open market transaction for around Rs 17,485 crore.

Buyers in the block deal will have a lock-in period of 90 days. Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, BNP Paribas, and Jefferies are the placement agents for the block deal.

Vodafone has been searching for a buyer for the remaining shareholding in the business for years. An agreement with Canadian pension fund fell through in 2022, according to media reports.

In February, KKR entity Silverview Portfolio Investments Pte Ltd sold 130.8 million Indus shares, or 4.85%, at Rs 210.21 apiece, aggregating Rs 2,749.61 crore. CPPIB had sold 57.6 million shares or 2.14% in Indias largest telecom tower company at Rs 212.15 apiece, aggregating Rs 1,223.46 crore.

Bharti Infratel and Indus Towers merged in late 2020. Airtel is the biggest shareholder in Indus, with 47.95%; Vodafone Group has 21.05%, and 30.97% is with the public, according to the tower companys latest filing with the BSE.

Vi accounts for 35-40% of the tower companys revenue. Ambit Capital estimates Vi still owes Indus around Rs 10,000 crore. Lately, though, Vi has begun clearing its substantial dues to Indus, boosting the tower companys net profit in the fiscal third quarter.
Vodafone Group will sell about 10% stake in Indias Indus Towers for as much as $1.1 billion on Wednesday, per a term sheet seen by Reuters, as a part of the British firms efforts to repay debt.

Last week, Reuters reported that Vodafone was mulling to sell its stake in mobile-tower operator Indus Towers, in which it owns a 21.5% stake via various group entities.

Vodafone plans to repay part of its $42.17 billion net debt using proceeds from the Indus Towers stake sale, sources had told Reuters last week.

Vodafone will sell roughly 268 million shares in Indus Towers through stock market block deals in Mumbai at a price range of 310 rupees to 341 rupees per share, valuing the stake between $996 million to $1.1 billion, the term sheet showed on Tuesday.

The midpoint of the price range is at a 4.5% discount to Induss stock closing price on Tuesday, but roughly in-line with its close on Friday after Reuters reported on the sale. Indian markets were closed on Monday.

Vodafone has hired Bank of America, Morgan Stanley, Jefferies and BNP Paribas to manage the stake sale in Indian stock markets, the term sheet showed.

Vodafone and Indus Towers did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

Block deals, where investors sell shares in stock markets, have become increasingly popular in India as the market has surged to record highs.
The All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) has recently announced the AIIMS BSc Nursing Result 2024 for the upcoming August session. The examination was conducted for all the candidates who are interested in pursuing their bachelors in nursing on June 8 and 9. All the students who have cleared the entrance examination are provisionally eligible for the mock round or the first round of seat allocation.

In the AIIMS BSc Nursing 2024 result, the institute revealed the qualified candidates roll numbers, category, PWBD, percentile, and overall rank. Candidates who appeared for the entrance examination can check their results by visiting the official website of AIIMS at aiimsexams.ac.in.

AIIMS BSc Nursing Result 2024: How to Check Result

Step 1: The first step is to go to the AIIMS official website: aiimsexams.ac.in.

Step 2: After that, users will find the AIIMS BSc Nursing exam result 2024 link on the homepage under Important Announcements. They will have to click on the link.

Step 3: Users are then required to look for August Session if it is mentioned.

Step 4: After going to the link, users will have to enter their login credentials.

Step 5: The PDF file will open with the rank list, and roll numbers will be mentioned in it.

Step 6: Users can download the results for their further reference.

AIIMS has also set out an official notice that states that all the candidates who have provisionally qualified on the basis of their uploaded OBC (NCL) or EWS certificate will be able to choose their institute through the seat allocation process. The notice also states that the choice that the students make will be final, and no claim, including an order of preference, will be entertained in this regard thereafter. In order to qualify for the AIIMS BSc Nursing Course, students are required to have passed their 12th grade exams with at least 50 per cent marks in physics, chemistry, and biology.

In India, under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana, six new AIIMS were developed in Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Jodhpur, Patna, Raipur, and Rishikesh, similar to the one in New Delhi. The course would be offered in these institutes.

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
The Allahabad High Court rejected a plea filed by NEET aspirant Ayushi Patel due to contradictions in her statements involving a damaged OMR answer sheet on Tuesday. According to PTI, Patel claimed that the National Testing Agency (NTA) failed to release her results owing to a ripped OMR sheet. Ayushi Pate also claimed a score of 715 marks based on the answer key released by NTA, nevertheless received a result with a different application number that showed just 335 marks.

The assertions were made in a social media video that went viral during a heated debate over the possible irregularities in the NEET-UG 2024.

In a viral video, Patel said that when she attempted to verify her results, an error notice read, Your results have not been generated. She further stated that she received an email from the NTA informing her that her result had not been issued due to damaged optical mark recognition (OMR) sheet.In response to her claims, the NTA clarified that no such email was sent to any students.

Following the announcement of the NEET-UG result 2024 on June 4, Patel filed a petition requesting a manual examination of her OMR sheet, an investigation of the NTA, and a stay on the medical admission counselling.

On June 12, a vacation bench led by Justice Rajesh Singh requested the NTA to present the students original records, as reported by PTI. NTA Deputy Director Sandeep Sharma produced the students original documents and an affidavit in compliance with the judgement.

However, the original OMR sheet revealed no damage. The court rejected the petition, citing forged documents, and stated that the NTA is free to pursue legal action.

The petitioner has submitted forged documents, and in such a situation this court cannot stop NTA from taking legal action against the student, the ruling stated.

The NTA informed the court of their intention to take legal action against Patel. Further, Patels advocate urged that the petition be withdrawn, which the court granted.

 With PTI Inputs

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
The Ministry of Education on Wednesday announced cancellation of the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination following reports indicating that the integrity of the examination may have been compromised. The matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for thorough investigation in the matter.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination in OMR (pen and paper) mode on June 18, 2024, in two shifts across different cities of the country.

The exam has been cancelled on the basis of inputs from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, prima facie indicating that the integrity of the examination may have been compromised.

What Is the UGC-NET & Why Exam Was Cancelled? What Has Govt Said? All You Need To Know

A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately. Simultaneously, the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for thorough investigation in the matter, a press release by the Ministry of Education said.

The NET exam was cancelled amid allegations of question paper leaks in states like Bihar and other irregularities in the prestigious NEET examination. The allegations have led to protests in several cities and the filing of petitions in several high courts as well as the Supreme Court.

Oppn Vs Govt Over UG-NET Exam

The opposition stepped up attacks on the government after the UGC-NET exam was cancelled.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said the exam cancellation is the defeat of the arrogance of the Modi government due to which they made a despicable attempt to trample the future of our youth.

.@narendramodi ,       , NEET     ? UGC-NET                                  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) June 19, 2024

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that corruption of the BJP government is fatal for the youth and asked if the education minister will take accountability.

The laxity and corruption of the BJP government is fatal for the youth. After the news of scam in NEET exam, now the NET exam to be held on 18th June has also been cancelled due to the fear of irregularities. Will accountability be fixed now? Will the education minister take responsibility for this lax system? she wrote in a post on X.

Congress MP Karti P Chidambaram demanded that the NEET exam, which is already in controversy, should be cancelled as well.

Cancel #NEET too! The examination is devoid of integrity, he said.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said the repeated and absolute failure to conduct national examinations fairly exposes the NTAs incompetence.

The repeated and absolute failure to conduct national examinations fairly exposes the NTAs incompetence. This is an education emergency and also lets down lakhs of students who diligently prepare for these entrance exams. , not to forget the mental pressure they go through. Cancelling is not the solution, accountability from government and NTA is. This absolute disregard to young students and their careers is unfortunate, she said.

BJP leader Amit Malviya said that the government proactively cancelled the NET exam and assured to protect interest of students.

GoI proactively cancels NET exams, held on 18th Jun, after UGC receives reports that the exams were compromised. CBI probe ordered. Also assures to protect interest of students and promises action in NEET(UG) exam on receipt of report from the Economic Offences Unit of the Bihar Police, Malviya said in a post on X.

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
You may have heard of the saying, follow your dreams with all your heart. A 23-year-old girl from Madhya Pradesh has proved this quote true. Shreya Shandilya brought pride and glory to her family by becoming a female pilot at the age of 23. She is also the first female pilot in her district. Her accomplishments are a testament to the fact that with passion and motivation, one can fulfil any dream. Shreya Shandilya has joined Indigo Airlines as a Junior First Officer (JFO). She will be operating Indigo Airbus-320 aircraft in India and abroad. She has fulfilled her dream by completing her five-year training with utmost dedication.

She obtained her Commercial Pilot License (CPL) in 2019 after she finished her 200 hours of training from Madhya Pradesh Flying Club in Indore. Later, she continued her training as a trainee pilot with Indigo Airlines. Her passion and dedication coupled with her excellent performance and yearning to learn more earned her an opportunity to get a simulator training by UAEs Etihad Airways.

Shreya Shandilya comes from a humble family background. Her father, Awadhesh Shandilya runs a photocopy shop. Shreya dreamed of becoming a pilot since her childhood. Her parents did not leave any stone unturned to fulfil the dreams of their daughter. Her father mentioned that when he needed money for his daughters fees for her studies, he stopped the construction of his house. When he needed more money, he took a loan. He had complete faith in his daughter and believed that she would be able to achieve great heights.

Reminiscing about her childhood days, her father shared that in her childhood, Shreya used to run to the roof upon hearing the sound of the plane and would try to figure out the route of the plane. Captain Shreya Shandilya said that she had decided right in her childhood that she would become a pilot when she grew up. She further added that her parents worked very hard to fulfil her dream, and it is because of them that she has reached this position today.

Shreya did her schooling at Mahar Regiment School and St Joseph Convent School. Later, she joined the Madhya Pradesh Flying Club. Her brother, Shivom is pursuing an MBA degree from IIM Kashipur.

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
The Ministry of Education on Wednesday announced the cancellation of the UGC-NET examination due to prima facie evidence indicating compromise in the exams integrity.

The UGC-NET June 2024 examination was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in pen and paper (OMR) mode on Tuesday, June 18, across various cities nationwide in two shifts.

The education ministry, in an official statement, acknowledged it received certain inputs from National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit of Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs on the Examination.

To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, the Ministry of Education, Government of India has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination be cancelled, the statement added.

Government is committed to ensure the sanctity of examinations and protect the interest of students.Ministry of Education has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination be cancelled on the basis of inputs from Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry  Ministry of Education (@EduMinOfIndia) June 19, 2024

What is UGC-NET examination?

UGC-NET, as per the official website, is a national eligibility test aimed at determining the eligibility of Indian nationals for roles such as Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship and Assistant Professor in universities and colleges across India.

Additionally, it determines eligibility for several fellowships including those under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and the Ministry of Minorities Affairs.

According to the website, candidates aspiring for these fellowships must also apply and qualify through this test.

Number of candidates in June 2024 Exam

According to NTAs press release, the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination saw a total of 11,21,225 registered candidates, comprising 6,35,587 females, 4,85,579 males, and 59 third gender candidates. This marks an increase from last years UGC-NET December 2023 Exam, which had 9,45,872 registered candidates. The examination was conducted across 1,205 exam centers in 317 cities across the country.

Out of the total registered candidates, 81 per cent candidates appeared for the exam, compared to about 73.6 per cent attendance in the UGC-NET December 2023 Exam.

Who conducts UGC-NET?

UGC-NET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, the same body responsible for NEET-UG.

The examination is conducted biannually, in June and December, to streamline the UGC-NET examination cycle.

Whats next?

In the statement, the ministry announced that a fresh examination will be conducted, with details to be shared separately.

Additionally, it stated that the matter will be referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a thorough investigation

A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately. Simultaneously, the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (C.B.I.) for thorough investigation in the matter, the statement concluded.

Cancellation amid NEET row

The ministrys announcement comes amid controversies surrounding the NEET(UG) 2024 Examination, with ongoing investigations into alleged irregularities in Patna.

The results of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), announced by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on June 4, were released nearly 10 days ahead of schedule, coinciding with the announcement of the 2024 Lok Sabha election results.

Concerns have been raised regarding the unusually high percentiles achieved by some students, with scores of 718 or 719 out of 720, which many have claimed to be impossible to attain. Aspirants have voiced concerns over alleged irregularities and paper leaks.

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
Russian President Vladimir Putin met his comrade Kim Jong Un in North Koreas capital Pyongyang on Wednesday in a rare visit to the state in 24 years amid the Ukraine war. State-controlled North Korean news agency KCNA said Kim could not contain his joy at what it described as a touching reunion.

Both the leaders, whose countries face escalating standoffs with west, have signed a mutual partnership that includes a vow to aid if either country is attacked. North Korea is under heavy UN Security Council sanctions over its weapons programme, while Russia also faces sanctions by the US and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

There are growing concerns that an arms arrangement has been made between the two countries in which North Korea provides Russia with munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange of economic assistance and technology transfers to Pyongyang.

The comprehensive strategic partnership does not clarify the kind of assistance that both the countries have signed up for.

What will North Korea Get?

The West has accused North Korea of circumventing international sanctions to transfer arms and missiles to Russia but Pyongyang has denied any such handover. Russia is likely providing North Korea with food, fuel and military technology for its satellites and submarines, according to analysts quoted by CNBC.

Experts say Kims wishlist includes technologies related to advanced telemetry, nuclear-powered submarines, military satellites, and intercontinental ballistic missiles. Russian technology likely contributed to Pyongyangs first successful military spy satellite launch in November 2023  just two months after the last Putin-Kim summit.

Kim said Moscow and Pyongyangs fiery friendship is now even closer than during Soviet times, and promised full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity, as quoted by news agency The Associated Press.

North Korea may also seek to increase labour exports to Russia and other illicit activities to gain foreign currency in defiance of UN Security Council sanctions, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas main spy agency. There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.

What will Russia Get?

Since the war began in Ukraine in February 2022, Russias isolation by the West has increased, and Putin has been seeking partners and customers in the East for its oil and commodities.

Russias military, which has been placed on a war-footing, is facing a shortfall of what it can produce monthly and how much is being spent on it on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Putin needs Kims weapons to make up for a monthly munition shortfall of 50,000 rounds, even if Russia is producing ammunition at full capacity in the pursuit of victory in Ukraine, per the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

According to a US statement in February, Russia has received more than 10,000 shipping containers  the equivalent of 260,000 metric tonnes of munitions or munitions-related material  from North Korea since September. Russian forces have also launched at least 10 North Korea-made missiles on Ukraine since September, a US official said, quoted by CNN.

Putin also sees the relationship with Kim as a way to raise the specter of nuclear war, exploiting US and South Korean concerns about North Korea so that the Ukraine allies will be compelled to negotiate on Russias terms, analysts believe.

Observers also believe that Putin is unlikely at this point to directly help North Koreas nuclear programme, as neither Putin nor his close partner Xi want to see nuclear confrontation in the region, a CNN report mentioned.

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of UN sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear programme, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine.

What Does the Visit Mean to the US and China?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called Putins visit to North Korea in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters, Were not concerned about the trip. What we are concerned about is the deepening relationship between these two countries.

Kirby said this concern was not just because of the impact its going to have on the Ukrainian people, because we know North Korean ballistic missiles are still being used to hit Ukrainian targets, but because there could be some reciprocity here that could affect security on the Korean peninsula.

Washington has an opportunity to exert strategic influence by working with like-minded South Korea and Japan against the Kim, Putin and Xi Jinping who are united in opposition to the US and the Western liberal order.

Meanwhile, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Lin Jian said at a briefing that the summit was a bilateral exchange between Russia and North Korea but did not elaborate.

China has certain reservations regarding North Koreas deepening military cooperation with Russia, which could undermine Beijings near monopoly of geopolitical influence over Pyongyang, said Tong Zhao of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, as quoted by Reuters.

China proclaimed a no limits relationship with Russia just days before Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, but Beijing has so far avoided providing weapons and ammunition for the war effort.

South Korea, where senior Chinese foreign and defence officials visit coincide with Putins visit to North Korea, said, Our side expressed concern about Russian President Putins visit to North Korea scheduled on the same day, and China expressed hope that exchanges between Russia and North Korea would contribute to peace and stability in the region.

China would become concerned if North Koreas partnership with Russia leads to provocative behaviour that makes the regional situation more difficult for Beijing as it wants to rebuild its economy and do trade, said Niklas Swanstrom, Director of the Institute for Security and Development Policy in Sweden, as mentioned by Reuters.
A dead frog was allegedly found in a packet of potato wafers in Gujarats Jamnagar on Wednesday. The incident comes amid outrage over the recent incidents of a human finger and centipede found in ice cream order online.

Jasmin Patel, a resident of Pushkar Dham Society, claimed that his four-year-old niece bought the packet from a nearby shop on Tuesday evening. Patels niece and his nine-month-old daughter ate some wafers from the packet before they spotted the dead frog.

An official of the Jamnagar Municipal Corporation said that the samples of the production batch of the wafer packet will be collected as part of the probe.

One Jasmin Patel informed us that a dead frog was found in a packet of Crunchex, manufactured by Balaji Wafers. We visited the shop from where it had been purchased last night. Preliminary probe suggested it was indeed a frog in a decomposed state, food safety officer D B Parmar was quoted by Indian Express as saying.

As directed by the municipal commissioner, we will collect samples of this batch of wafer packets to conduct an inquiry, he added.

Earlier this week, students of a government engineering college in Bihar claimed to have found a snake in the food served at the mess.

According to a TOI report, students of a government engineering college in Bihars Banka discovered pieces of what appeared to be a snake in the meal served at the mess. As many as 11 students fell sick after consuming the food and were rushed to a hospital where they were treated for symptoms of nausea and vomiting. The students are now in a stable condition.

Following the incident, the college administration changed the food vendor and imposed a fine on the accused. Additionally, the administration made it mandatory for the principal and teachers to consume food with students every day.
The central government on Wednesday approved Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 14 Kharif season crops, in its first meeting of the Union Cabinet and the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).

The announcement was made by Union Information and Broadcasting minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The Cabinet has approved Minimum Support Price (MSP) on 14 Kharif season crops including Paddy, Ragi, Bajra, Jowar, Maize and Cotton, Vaishnaw said.

#WATCH | On Union Cabinet decisions, Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw says, The Cabinet has approved Minimum Support Price (MSP) on 14 Kharif season crops including Paddy, Ragi, Bajra, Jowar, Maize and Cotton. pic.twitter.com/OObQUGdC3s ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

The Union Minister added that the Cabinet has approved an increase in MSP for paddy by Rs 117 to Rs 2,300 per quintal for the 2024-25 kharif crop season.

Some very important decisions have been taken in todays Cabinet. One very important decision has been taken for the welfare of farmers. Kharif season is starting, and for that, the Cabinet has approved MSP on 14 crops. The new MSP for paddy is Rs 2,300, which is Rs 117 increment over the previous MSP, the I&B minister stated.

Vaishnaw emphasised that the third term of PM Modi is important, focusing on continuity with change through numerous decisions aimed at farmers welfare.

With todays decision, the farmers will get around Rs 2 lakh crores as MSP. This is Rs 35,000 crores more than the previous season, he added.

Expansion Of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi

The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the development of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. The project includes the construction of a new terminal building, apron extension, runway extension, parallel taxi track, and allied works.

The estimated financial outgo will be Rs. 2869.65 Crore for enhancing the passenger handling capacity of the airport to 9.9 million passengers per annum (MPPA) from the existing 3.9 MPPA. The New Terminal Building, which encompasses an area of 75,000 sqm is designed for a capacity of 6 MPPA and for handling 5000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP), a PIB release stated.

Indias first offshore wind energy projects

Vaishnaw announced that the Cabinet has approved Indias first Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme for offshore wind energy projects, totalling Rs. 7,453 crore.

This includes Rs. 6,853 crore allocated for the installation and commissioning of 1 GW of offshore wind energy projects (500 MW each off the coasts of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu), along with a grant of Rs. 600 crore for upgrading two ports to meet logistics needs for these projects.

The successful commissioning of 1 GW offshore wind projects will produce renewable electricity of about 3.72 billion units annually, which will result in annual reduction of 2.98 million ton of CO2 equivalent emission for a period of 25 years, the release noted.
The daughter of a Rajya Sabha MP ran over a man sleeping on a footpath with her BMW in Chennai on Monday night. While the man succumbed to his injuries soon after, the woman got bail.

The fresh high-profile case of hit-and-run comes within a month after the Pune Porsche accident, where two 24-year-old techies from Madhya Pradesh died after the speeding car, allegedly driven by a 17-and-a-half-year-old boy in an inebriated state, hit their motorcycle at Punes Kalyani Nagar junction around 2:30 am on May 19.

According to a report on NDTV, YSR Congress Party Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Raos daughter Madhuri was driving the BMW accompanied by her female friend and ran over the car over Surya, a 24-year-old painter, who was sleeping on the footpath in Chennais Besant Nagar in a drunk state.

Officials told NDTV that Madhuri fled the scene almost immediately, but her friend stayed back and argued with people who had gathered after the accident. She left the spot after a while. Some people rushed Surya to a nearby hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries.

According to reports, Surya had married only eight months ago. Relatives and residents from his colony gathered at the J-5 Shastri Nagar Police Station, demanding action.

Upon reviewing the CCTV footage, the police discovered that the car involved was owned by the BMR (Beeda Masthan Rao) Group and registered in Puducherry. Madhuri was arrested but received bail at the police station. Rao, who became a Rajya Sabha MP in 2022 and has also served as an MLA, is affiliated with the BMR Group, a prominent name in the seafood industry.
A Delhi court on Wednesday heard the bail plea of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a money laundering case related to the alleged now-scrapped excise scam and extended his jail stay till July 3.

Probe agency Enforcement Directorate (ED) the Delhi court that everything in the matter had boiled down to his role. Additional Solicitor General SV Raju said, The matter boils down to his role. He clarified that allegations of Kejriwal demanding Rs 100 crore bribe were brought by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and not the ED.

During the hearing, Kejriwals lawyer said, Various chargesheets have been filed and in none of them, he was made and accused. Despite several people having been arrested in the earlier stages, nothing was about him.

Earlier, Additional Sessions Judge Mukesh Kumar had adjourned the matter after the probe agency Enforcement Directorate (ED) sought time to file a reply in the matter.

The judge, meanwhile, fixed for Saturday, an application filed by Kejriwal seeking directions to allow his wife to join through video conference the proceedings of the medical board constituted to determine Kejriwals health condition and treatment. The judge directed the jail authorities concerned to file a reply in matter. During the proceedings, the ED requested the court to adjourned the matter till June 25.

The judge, however, said he would consider the accuseds convenience for the next date of hearing, not the probe agencys.

The accused is in judicial custody (JC), and not in your (EDs) custody. If he wants some convenience, you do not have any role in that. You have no role to play. He is in JC. I will consider his convenience, not yours, the judge said.

A Delhi court had on June 5 dismissed Kejriwals application seeking interim bail on medical grounds in the case.

The judge, however, had directed the Tihar jail authorities to take care of Kejriwals medical needs in judicial custody.

The judge had also extended the judicial custody of Kejriwal till June 19. Last Saturday, the Delhi High Court directed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals wife Sunita Kejriwal to take down a video recording of court proceedings related to the excise policy case from social media platforms.

Here are highlights of the top arguments made by both parties.
Two additional almost 200-kilometre sections of the much-awaited Delhi-Mumbai expressway can be expected in the next six months, government documents seen by News18 show. The 159-km Sawai Madhopur-Jhalawar section is expected to be ready by August, offering seamless travel from Delhi to the Madhya Pradesh-Gujarat border. However, a small part in Rajasthan  an eight-kilometre tunnel  will not be ready.

Speaking to News18, a ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) official explained that an old existing road can be used for this stretch.

The MoRTH documents seen by News18 show that two additional sections  also including the 38-km Bharuch-Surat stretch  will be ready this year. While the deadline for the section up to Jhalawar is August 2024, for the section in Gujarat it is December 2024.

Three sections of the 1,386-km expressway are already operational  the 293-km Delhi-Dausa-Sawai Madhopur section, 245-km Jhalawar-Ratlam-MP/Gujarat Border, and 87-km Vadodara-Baruch section  making up for more than half of the access control road.

The entire 845-km Delhi-Vadodara section is expected to be ready by March 2025 while the 450-km Vadodara-Mumbai section is expected by October 2025.

The 90-km DND Sohna and Jewar part of the road is expected by July 2025, the documents show.

The Delhi-Mumbai expressway, covering Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, is being developed at a cost of about Rs 1 lakh crore. Once completed, the 1,386-km expressway will be the longest in India. It is expected to halve the commute time between Delhi and Mumbai, from nearly 24 hours to 12 hours, and shorten the distance by 130 km.

As per the ministry, the Delhi-Mumbai greenfield expressway is generating employment of 50 lakh man-days during the construction phase.

It is being developed with an 8-lane configuration and has provision to expand to 12 lanes in the future, with a design speed of 120 km/hr. Currently, the two cities  Mumbai and Delhi  are connected by NH-48 which is longer (1,440 km) as well as congested.

The new road will also offer alternate connectivity to Jaipur, Kota, Chittorgarh, Indore, Ujjain, Bhopal, Ahmedabad, and Vadodara and will reduce distances and travel time.
Delhi Water Minister Atishi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his help to resolve the water crisis in the national capital amid soaring temperatures. She also threatened to go on an indefinite fast from June 21 if the matter was not resolved.

I have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the water crisis requesting him to resolve the issue. If the crisis is not solved within two days, I will go on an indefinite strike from June 21, she said.

Atishi said Delhi was grappling with a water crisis as Haryana was not releasing the capitals share of water.

Yesterday, Haryana released 513 MGD of water to Delhi as against 613 MGD. One MGD of water is for 28,500 people. This means that water was not released for over 28 lakh people, she added.

Atishi said they have written multiple letters to the Haryana government to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva accused Atishi of indulging in theatrics to distract attention from theft and black marketing of water and said that the AAP government should be sacked for its inaction.

Atishi has now stooped to theatrics to divert attention from theft and black marketing of water. Haryana provided surplus water to Delhi yesterday and there are official documents to prove it but she is now resorting to drama, he charged.

This government should be sacked, he said alleging the ruling AAP failed to provide water to the people of Delhi.

Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav said that Atishi should have written the letter to Prime Minister Modi earlier.

Long queues witnessed at tankers

People were seen in queues on Wednesday to fetch water from tankers in various parts of the national capital, as they continue to face a water shortage amid the scorching heat.

Morning visuals showed people from Kusumpur Pahadi in Vasant Vihar in South West Delhi to Geeta Colony in East Delhi and Okhla in South East Delhi standing in queues, holding onto cans and buckets and crowding around water tankers.

Amid soaring temperatures, these scenes have become a daily occurrence in the national capital in many areas since the start of the summer season this year.

Chanakyapuris Sanjay Camp, Geeta Colony in East Delhi, Patel Nagar, Mehrauli, and Chhatarpur are some of the areas in the national capital that have been affected by the severe water crisis.

A local resident from Okhla described his plight and said that instead of protesting all the political parties should stand together and find a solution to this issue.

Every year during May and June, Delhi faces a water crisis. For the last ten years after the Kejriwal government was formed we have been getting water from one way or the other. Haryana is not giving water. Every summer this issue arises. Once the monsoon commences this difficulty will be over. We are getting water from the arrangements done by the Delhi government. BJP has won all 7 seats from Delhi in the Lok Sabha polls. Each party should support each other instead of protesting. Nothing will happen by staging the Matka Phor protest. The MPs should also arrange water in the city, he said.

Meanwhile, Haryana has conveyed its incapacity to provide additional water supplies to Delhi on humanitarian grounds amidst the current water crisis.
Amid talks of the 14th Dalai Lamas successions, sources in India have lashed out at China for trying to control the reincarnation by saying its approval is necessary for the candidate. Sources have said only India has a legitimate say in the Dalai Lama selection and that China was confusing the world and wants to control Tibet.

Sources said that being invited to an enthronement much like an oath taking ceremony of current times does not mean giving official legitimacy to the leader in question as the local people and those believing in him have already put him in the role of leadership. This would mean those leaders from nations who had come to PM Narendra Modis oath taking ceremony have given him official legitimacy to govern India for the next 5 years, certainly not, sources said.

Indian officials have questioned that when PRC continues to use various derogatory terms like wolf in a monks robe for the Dalai Lama, why are they interested in seeking the control of the reincarnation of a man they so despise?

The first Dalai Lama was born in 1391 and the Peoples Republic of China was established in 1949. How can they have claim over an institution that precedes their formation, sources questioned. The Dalai Lama had formally set up the institution of the Ganden Phorang in 1642 which is before the PRC was formed.

PRCs Founding Father Chairman Mao had infamously said Religion is poison taking it from the Marxist maxim of Religion is Opium to the masses when he met the Dalai Lama in 1956. This is a dictum even followed by the current Communist leadership in China led by President Xi Jinping. Hence, the question is as to why the CCP is so interested in controlling Buddhism in Tibet. The cultural revolution is a standing example and its impact remains large as religions and traditions including Tibetan Buddhism were destroyed and ravaged by the Communist Red Guards.

The abduction by the CCP of the current 11th Panchen Lama gives a clear indication of how Beijing has and continues to control Buddhism, but has failed.

ORDER NUMBER 5 MENTIONED BY CHINESE SPOKESPERSON

Peoples Republic of China under the Communist Party of China called for Tibets invasion in 1949 and it was only in 2007 that they came up with Order number 5, which is a set of rules and regulations by Beijing to confirm the reincarnations of high lamas practising the Tibetan tradition of Buddhism. If the process laid out by PRC in the order number 5 is so vital to them, why did the PRC only introduce this order in 2007 and not immediately during the years post occupation?

No Tibetan law or religion demanded the establishment of the Order number 5. This order was introduced to control and strangle the practice of Buddhism, Indian sources said. Order number 5 is to control Buddhism, not to promote it.

Indian officials have stated that the PRC has no legitimate role in Tibet. While they thought controlling Buddhism was one way, but they have failed miserably as numerous monks and nuns have been fleeing Tibet. Since coming to power, Xi Jinping had made it his mission to sinicize the Tibetan tradition of Buddhism and he has done this by carrying out previous policy mentioned above (Order number 5) and also enforcing Tibetan Buddhist Institutes in Tibet to adopt and adhere to Xi Jinping thought of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.

CURRENT SITUATION OF TIBETAN BUDDHISM

The current monastic education in Tibet stifles proper education and debates. The number of monks/nuns have been restricted, displaying a portrait of His Holiness in a monastery or even possessing one is a punishable offense. A source said, Namkyi, who escaped exile recently, highlighted to us all how by her carrying a picture of the Dalai Lama and calling for his return branded her as a political prisoner and she was sentenced.

Recent incidents like the Larung Gar demolition, destruction of Buddhist Statue in Drago County, all indicate how the current communist leadership from Beijing views Buddhism and the Dalai Lama. Yet, still they claim to have legitimacy over the Dalai Lama which is confounding.

INDIA

India has a more legitimate say when it comes to the Dalai Lama as Buddhism originated and spread from India to the rest of the world. The Buddhism that the Dalai Lama teaches and other practices are by and large from the Nalanda tradition of Buddhism.

A statement by the Ministry of External Affairs must be made stating that India will support and endorse the 15th Dalai Lama in accordance with the processes set forth by the current 14th Dalai Lama and that it would strongly oppose outside interference and influence in matters related to his succession as it is a purely religious matter and it is for the Tibetans to decide for themselves; and should the 15th Dalai Lama wish to be in India, then he too shall be an honoured guest just like the 14th Dalai Lama and the Government of India shall provide all the support as offered to the current Dalai Lama to the 15th Dalai Lama. India should be seen as the main unifying force in safeguarding the sanctity of the succession process which will remove doubts and anxiety from the minds of Tibetans. In this context, the Government of India must publicly endorse the statement of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, on the issue of his reincarnation made on September 24, 2011.
Jammu is going to be the new war zone with terror groups trying to target the area. Sources have told News18 that security forces will take a relook at the deployment to tackle new terror hotbeds.

According to top Intelligence sources, with the drying up of sources and on ground workers in South Kashmir, terror groups had initially started looking at North Kashmir and after domination in North Kashmir, they have now started entering from Jammu.

The Jammu terrain is a difficult one with huge ups and downs in the mountains and movement is, hence, easy for terror groups.

Sources say that these groups are based in Bagh and Alibad opposite Poonch and forward Kathua. Opposite Rajouri, they are in Tattapani, Hajira, Nikial, Kund Samani and Kot Kotera.

They start in groups of 10-12 and once they enter Poonch, Rajouri, they make their bases in the villages where the strength is only 5-10 members. By the time, these villagers come to know and inform local forces, they are delayed by two days and the groups are moved to different locations.

These terrorists are fighter grade and trained for mountain war by Lashkar under Sajid Jat, sources said. The ISIS wants these groups to unsettle Jammu which is Hindu dominated and peaceful. Sources say the ISI also knows that security forces in India are not fully equipped with handling of full proof cover to Jammu.

The Indian government is very clear that before it goes from bad to worse, action should be initiated. Home Minister Amit Shah in his meeting with the officials of Jammu and Kashmir made it very clear that domination is important for peace in Jammu.

There is a possible reshuffle in security forces and Jammu will be made an important commitment for the forces with more deployment.

Earlier CNN-News18 had reported how after getting security funds from China for CPEC, a part will be diverted to Kashmir jihad. According to top intelligence sources, this is the compulsion of the ISI to keep Kashmir jihad on because lakhs of terrorist are sitting idle after Afghanistan takeover by Taliban.

To stop these terrorists from creating problems in their country, they need to deploy them in the areas where they can deliver something.
The severed thumb found in ice cream ordered online by a Mumbai-based man could be that of an injured factory worker and police are running tests to confirm the initial probe findings.

According to an India Today report, police have sent the DNA sample of the Pune factory staffer to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for investigation.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) had earlier suspended the licence of the Pune-based ice cream manufacturer pending investigation.

Brendon Ferrao (26), a doctor and a resident of the Malad area, filed a complaint after the incident took place on Wednesday.

In his complaint, he said that he ordered a butterscotch ice cream cone from Yummo company through an e-Commerce app. While consuming the ice cream after lunch, he found a piece of flesh with a nail in it, a police official said.

The man, who is pursuing his post-graduate studies, then took up the matter with the ice cream company by complaining about it on its Instagram page. But since there was no proper response from the firm, the complainant put the piece of flesh in an ice bag and approached went to the Malad police station, where he complained, the official said.

Based on his complaint, the police registered a case under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 272 (adulteration of food or drink intended for sale), 273 (sale of noxious food and drink), and 336 (act endangering life or personal safety of others), against Yummo ice cream company officials, he said.

The piece of flesh, suspected to be a piece of human finger, has been sent for forensic examination to ascertain whether it is a part of the human body, the official said.

Speaking to media persons about the incident, complainant Ferrao said that while eating the ice cream, he found a big piece in his mouth and initially thought it to be a nut.

But as he suspected that something was wrong, he took out the piece from his mouth and was appalled to find a piece of flesh, he said.

He said that since he is a doctor, he knows the human body parts well and figured out that the piece of flesh that he found was of a thumb.

Senior police inspector Ravindra Adane said the piece of flesh with a nail measured around one-and-a-half centimetres.
A bomb threat was received concerning IndiGo flight 6E 5149, which flew from Chennai to Mumbai on Tuesday. The threat call was directed to the IndiGo call centre in New Delhi. The flight landed in Mumbai around 10:30 p.m.

An IndiGo spokesperson confirmed the bomb threat to the said flight.

Along with the flight, several other airports including Chennai, Coimbatore, Patna, Vadodara and Jaipur, received bomb warnings. The hoax threats were sent via email.

IndiGo flight 6E 5149, operating from Chennai to Mumbai, had received a bomb threat. Upon landing in Mumbai, the crew followed protocol and the aircraft was taken to a isolation bay. All passengers have safely disembarked the aircraft. We are working with the security agencies and post completion of all security checks, the aircraft will be positioned back in the terminal area, the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) also received a hoax bomb threat where a man threatened to blow up the civic agencys headquarters in the financial capital of India.

#WATCH | Maharashtra | Mumbai's BMC headquarters received a threatening email. The unknown person threatened to blow up the headquarters. The police investigated the BMC headquarters but did not find anything suspicious. In this case, further investigation is underway: Mumbai pic.twitter.com/us0IXQG9FK ANI (@ANI) June 18, 2024

Mumbais BMC headquarters received a threatening email. The unknown person threatened to blow up the headquarters. The police investigated the BMC headquarters but did not find anything suspicious. In this case, further investigation is underway, Mumbai Police told news agency ANI.

On Tuesday, over 50 hospitals in Mumbai, including Jaslok Hospital, Raheja Hospital, Seven Hill Hospital, Kohinoor Hospital, KEM Hospital, JJ Hospital, and St. George Hospital was targeted with bomb threats sent via email.

According to a statement from the Mumbai Police, the emails were sent through a VPN network and the identity and motive of the sender are yet to be ascertained.

Authorities have launched a probe to identify the person or group responsible for these threats.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who celebrated his birthday on Wednesday, announced in a special video that he will be giving away white T-shirts, a regular piece of garment he is well-known for wearing.

Thanking his well-wishers in a post on X, Rahul explained why he always wears a white polo T-shirt, stating that it symbolises transparency, solidity, and simplicity.

In the video message, he said, My heartfelt thanks to all of you for your birthday wishes. I am often asked why I always wear a white T-shirt  this T-shirt symbolises transparency, solidity and simplicity for me.

The Congress MP from Raebareli also posed a question to his supporters, Where and how useful are these values in your life? Use #WhiteTshirtArmy and tell me in a video. And, I will gift you a white T-shirt.

Lots of love to everyone, he ended his video message.

Rahul Gandhi celebrated his 54th birthday on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, the Congress party was in high spirits and celebrated the senior leaders birthday. Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav and other party leaders submitted copies of the Constitution along with a cover letter to 54 BJP MPs, including Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.

The people of the country and Delhi elected you to Parliament by adhering to the Constitution. The people of the country, including Delhi, appeal to you to raise your voice inside Parliament from time to time for the protection of the Constitution, the cover letter read.

Additionally, the Indian Youth Congress (IYC) distributed air coolers to shelter home dwellers in Delhi on the occasion of Gandhis birthday amid the sweltering heatwave in the national capital. The IYC distributed around 70 coolers to people at their office in central Delhi.

On the birthday of Rahul Gandhi, in view of the intense heat and heat wave in Delhi, air coolers were distributed to the shelter homes of the city, along with this we also distributed copies of the Constitution to the people and also organised cold water service in many districts of Delhi, IYC president Srinivas BV stated.

IYC national general secretary in-charge Coco Padhi stated that on this occasion, many social programs like blood donation camps and tree planting programs have been organised by all state units of the Youth Congress across the country.

Gandhi, who was also former Congress president, has instructed all party workers to avoid any grand celebrations and instead celebrate this occasion by engaging in humanitarian efforts and charity.

(With inputs from PTI)
Two terrorists were killed in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmirs Baramulla district on Wednesday. Two security personnel were also left injured in the exchange of fire, officials said.

The encounter started after security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Hadipora area of Rafiabad in the northern district. Officials said this turned into an encounter after the terrorists opened fire on the security forces.

A senior police official said two bodies have been seen at the scene of the gunbattle but have not been retrieved so far. The official added that two security personnel  a cop and an army jawan  were injured in the exchange of fire with the terrorists.

Due to the operation, traffic movement in the area was suspended and schools were ordered to shut. The army said the joint operation was launched with the J&K police in Hadipora on receiving specific intelligence inputs. two terrorists eliminated, operation in progress, a statement read.

This comes two days after a terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces in the Aragam area of Bandipora district.

(With PTI inputs)
A well-known social media influencer from Kerala died by suicide after allegedly being subjected to online trolling following her breakup with her boyfriend.

According to an NDTV report, the teenage victim, who was a 12th-grade student, attempted suicide at her home in Thiruvananthapuram last week post which she was admitted to the ICU in a critical condition. The girl passed away on Sunday while during treatment.

The deceaseds family members claim that she was being harassed on Instagram due to her breakup with her boyfriend, who is also an influencer. The constant trolling affected her mental health.

It was also reported that the girl was allegedly targeted by her ex-boyfriends followers after their separation.

According to her parents, they had advised her to concentrate on her studies upon learning about her relationship. They also mentioned that her mental health suffered after the breakup, which occurred two months prior.

A case of unnatural death has been registered by the Poojappura police and they have begun the investigation. The family of Adithya has filed a complaint to the police as she was attacked on social media platforms.
A 24-year-old man allegedly impersonating as a sexagenarian bound for Canada has been apprehended by the CISF at the Delhi international airport, a senior officer of the force said on Wednesday.

The passenger Guru Sewak Singh, with dyed hair and beard, was intercepted on Tuesday evening at Terminal-3 of the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport and has been handed over to the Delhi Police, he said.

The man was first checked by CISF personnel as his activities were found to be suspicious. He initially produced his identity in the form of a passport bearing the name Rashvindar Singh Sahota, 67. He was supposed to board an Air Canada plane flying out of Delhi on Tuesday, the officer said.

The mans appearance, voice and skin texture seemed significantly younger than the details provided in the passport. Closer observation revealed that he had dyed his hair and beard white, and was wearing glasses to appear older, he said.

The passenger, following further interrogation, disclosed his correct identity as Guru Sewak Singh, 24. The photo of a passport in this name was found also in his mobile phone, the officer said.

As the case was of forged passport and impersonation, the passenger along with his belongings was handed over to the Delhi Police for legal action in the matter, he said.
In todays digest, News18 brings you the latest updates on the June 9 Reasi Terror Attack, Indias comments on China and Tibet, and other top stories.

Reasi Terror Attack: Man Suspected Of Providing Logistics To Terrorists Arrested

A local from Jammu and Kashmirs Reasi has been arrested for his alleged connection with terrorists involved in the June 9 terror attack on a bus. READ MORE

EXCLUSIVE | India Has Legitimate Say in Dalai Lama Selection, China Just Wants to Control Tibet

Amid talks of the 14th Dalai Lamas successions, sources in India have lashed out at China for trying to control the reincarnation by saying its approval is necessary for the candidate. Sources have said only India has a legitimate say in the Dalai Lama selection and that China was confusing the world and wants to control Tibet. READ MORE

Over 10 Deaths Due To Heatwave In Delhi-NCR, Centre Asks Hospitals To Give Priority Treatment

Over 10 people died in the last three days and at least 12 are on life support due to extreme heatwave in the Delhi-NCR region. Health Minister JP Nadda on Wednesday sent an advisory to all the hospitals to give priority treatment for all who have been admitted due to the heat wave. READ MORE

Delhi Water Crisis: Atishi Writes to PM Modi, Says Will Go on Indefinite Fast from June 21 if Situation Not Resolved

Delhi Water Minister Atishi has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his help to resolve the water crisis in the national capital amid soaring temperatures. She also threatened to go on an indefinite fast from June 21 if the matter was not resolved. READ MORE

Darshan And His Aides Gave Electric Shock To Renukaswamy, Kept Body In Security Room

Actor Darshan is being probed for his alleged connection to the Renuka Swamy murder case. Renukaswamy was found dead at Sumanahalli Bridge in Bengaluru on June 8, 2024. He used to reportedly work at an Apollo Pharmacy branch in Chitradurga. Reportedly, Renuka used to send vulgar messages to Kannada actress Pavithra Gowad, a friend of Darshan. Angry about this, Renuka Swamy was murdered and his dead body was allegedly thrown in a canal at Kamaksshipalya, Bengaluru in front of Darshan. READ MORE

Chiranjeevis Former Son-In-Law Sirish Bharadwaj No More, Dies Due To Illness In Hyderabad

Telugu superstar Chiranjeevis former son-in-law, Sirish Bharadwaj, has passed away. Reportedly, Sirish breathed his last on Wednesday morning at a private hospital in Hyderabad where he was admitted due to an illness. Actor Sri Reddy confirmed the news of Sirishs death. However, the Bharadwaj family has not issued any statement as of now. READ MORE
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will reach Jammu and Kashmirs Srinagar on Thursday for a two-day visit. He is set to take part in a World Yoga Day event to be held at Sher-e-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC).

This will be PM Modis first Kashmir visit after the Lok Sabha polls. Ahead of his visit, Srinagar has been declared a Temporary Red Zone for drone and quadcopter operations.

The Srinagar Police has issued orders declaring the city a Temporary Red Zone for the operation of drones and quadcopters. In the order, police stated, Srinagar city has been declared a Temporary Red Zone for the operation of drones and quadcopters as per the provisions of Rule 24(2) of Drone Rules, 2021, with immediate effect.

The statement said that all unauthorised drone operations in the Red Zone are liable to be penalised as per relevant provisions of Drone Rules, 2021. As responsible citizens, your cooperation is solicited in this regard, it added.

9,000 people to take part in Srinagar Yoga event

BJP leader Jitendra Singh, who got a rousing reception on his arrival in Jammu capital city after becoming Union minister for the third consecutive time, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in an event in Srinagar in which almost 9,000 people will perform yoga with him on June 21.

On 21st June, PM Modi will participate in a yoga event in Srinagar in which almost 9,000 people will perform yoga with him, Singh told reporters here.

He further said there is a plan to connect all the 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir virtually.

Even if 2,000 people get connected from every district, almost 50,000 people will get connected virtually from J&K. This will have a statewide impact, Singh said.

He said it is a matter of pride for all that such a major yoga event is being organised at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.

In his address at a programme held at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) here to telecast Modis virtual grant of fresh instalment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Singh said there is a certain pattern of continuity with deep commitment and conviction.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihars Rajgir on Wednesday and called it a symbol of Indias vibrant culture and heritage. The event was attended by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and ambassadors from 17 nations.

After inaugurating the campus, PM Modi said that Nalanda University is not just a name but an identity for the country.

Nalanda is a symbol of Indias academic heritage and vibrant cultural exchange. The renaissance of Nalanda near its ancient ruins. This new campus will introduce Indias potential to the world, said PM Modi at the event.

Nalanda is the proclamation of this truth: that books may burn in the flames of fire, but the flames of fire cannot destroy knowledge, PM Modi added, referring to historians claims that millions of books and manuscripts in the ancient Nalanda University were burnt down by Afghan commanders.

Brief History

Emperor Kumar Gupta established Mahavira in the fifth century A.D. From the 5th to the 12th century, it became a renowned center of knowledge. Its international reputation attracted students from China, Mongolia, Tibet, Korea, and other Asian countries.

The level of teaching was exceptionally high, and admission to Mahavihara required passing a rigorous test administered by a teacher. While Nalanda was the leading center for Mahayana Buddhism studies, it also offered education in various other subjects.

Unfortunately, at the end of the 12th century, invader Bakhtiyar Khilji demolished the monastery, killed the monks, and burned the invaluable library. Today, recognizing its historical significance as a symbol of Asian unity and strength, the Nalanda International University is being established nearby.

PM On Visiting Nalanda

I got the opportunity to visit Nalanda in the first 10 days after taking oath for my third term. This is not only my good fortune, but I also see it as an auspicious sign for Indias development journey, he added.

PM Inaugurates Campus, Plans Sapling

The PM first unveiled a plaque at the new camps and went on to plant a sapling.

#WATCH | Nalanda, Bihar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils a plaque at the new campus of Nalanda University as he inaugurates the campus. The PM also planted a sapling here. pic.twitter.com/LUtRN02Jxy ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

PM Modi first reached the site and took stock of the campus. He also took a look at the ruins of the ancient Nalanda University.

The Interim Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University, Professor Abhay Kumar Singh also felicitated Prime Minister at the inauguration of the new campus.

#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi watches the ruins of ancient Nalanda University in Bihar.He will inaugurate the new campus of Nalanda University shortly. pic.twitter.com/12QRSUfTkg  ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2024

Speaking at the inauguration event, S Jaishankar, who was also in attendance, said the establishment of the new campus of Nalanda University is the celebration and appreciation of Indias immense culture and heritage that we are willing to share and propagate to the rest of the world.

Nalanda University served a larger role by connecting our society with those our near and far neighbours through land and sea. The universitys destruction marked a downturn in our history and continued through the colonial period. In that era, we not only saw a decline in our capabilities and confidence but in our connectivity as well with those nations who are now members of the East Asia Summit. In the rebuilding of Nalanda University, there are multiple messages, both national and international, said Jaishankar.

The new campus of the university is close to the site of the ancient ruins of Nalanda. This university was established through the Nalanda University Act, of 2010. The Act provided for implementing a decision arrived at the second East Asia Summit held in the Philippines in 2007 to establish the university.

This university, apart from India, has participation from 17 other nations  Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. These countries have signed MoUs in support of the university.

The university offers 137 scholarships to international students. The new university started functioning in 2014 from a makeshift location with 14 students. Construction work on the university started in 2017.

The university has six schools including the School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions; the School of Historical Studies; the School of Ecology and Environmental Studies; and the School of Sustainable Development and Management.

The international students enrolled in the Post Graduate programmes for the academic years 2022-24, 2023-25 and PhD programme in 2023-27 include students from Argentina, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Liberia, Myanmar, Mozambique, Nepal, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Serbia, Sierra Leone, Thailand, Turkiye, Uganda, USA, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

Nalanda University was established in the fifth century which attracted students from all over the world. The ancient university flourished for 800 years before it was destroyed by invaders in the 12th century, according to experts.
A local from Jammu and Kashmirs Reasi has been arrested for his alleged connection with terrorists involved in the June 9 terror attack on a bus.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have detained Hakim Din from Bhandarah, Rajouri, who is suspected of providing logistical support to the terrorists involved in the incident, as per News18 sources.

This is the first arrest made in connection with the terror incident.

The J&K police will hold a press conference today in Jammu. The investigation is still ongoing.

On June 9, nine people, including seven pilgrims from Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi, were killed, and 41 were injured when terrorists opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims from the Shiv Khori temple to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra. The 53-seater bus veered off the road due to the indiscriminate firing and fell into a gorge near Teryath village in Poni.

Last week, the J&K police had released a sketch of a terrorist involved in the attack and announced a Rs 20 lakh reward for information about him. The police said the sketch of the terrorist was prepared based on descriptions given by eyewitnesses.

On Monday, the case was transferred from the police to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on the directions of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The decision came a day after Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir and preparations for the annual Amarnath Yatra in two back-to-back meetings.

(With inputs from agencies)
Spiritual leader Jaggi Vasudev Sadhguru on Monday batted for the use of the name Bharat for India in daily parlance, saying it should have been reclaimed when the British left from the country.

Quoting an old post from ANI, which stated that NCERT had recommended replacing India with Bharat in all schools, the Isha Foundation head wrote on X: We should have reclaimed the name Bharat when the British left our shores.

A name will not do everything but it is important the country is named in a way that reverberates in everyones heart. Even though the Nation means everything to us, the word India has no meaning. If we are unable or unwilling to change the name of the Nation officially, it is time we at least bring Bharat into our daily parlance. Younger generations must know that Bharat existed long before India was born. Congratulations, he further wrote.

We should have reclaimed the name Bharat when the British left our shores. A name will not do everything but it is important the country is named in a way that reverberates in everyones heart. Even though the Nation means everything to us, the word India has no meaning. If https://t.co/ycsRZz2zGK Sadhguru (@SadhguruJV) June 18, 2024

In October 2023, the NCERT panel had suggested replacing the name India with Bharat in the textbooks, introducing classical history, instead of ancient history, in the curriculum, and including the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in the syllabus for all subjects.

This had led to a row, with the Opposition reacting sharply to it. Karnataka Deputy CM and Congress leader Shivakumar had wondered why there was a Reserve Bank of India, Indian Administrative Services, and Indian Foreign Services, hinting that the word Bharat was not used. Why is the Republic of India written on an Indian passport, he had asked.

Apart from the NCERT recommendation in October, the India-Bharat row, gained pace when Rashtrapati Bhawan sent out invitations for a G20 dinner on September 9 on behalf of President of Bharat.

Amid all this, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had said that the connotation of the word Bharat is reflected in the Constitution.

India, that is Bharat, is there in the Constitution. Please, I would invite everybody to read it, Jaishankar had said while speaking to news agency ANI.
The man who killed his girlfriend on a busy road in Vasai, on the outskirts of Mumbai, has told the police that he tried to end his own life twice before. He said he did this because he suspected the woman of dating someone else.

Rohit Yadav, 32, struck 18 blows on the head of Aarti Yadav, 22, with a spanner, killing her in front of scores of people on Tuesday (June 18). Even as people watched the chilling crime, the accused did not flee the scene and sat close to the body till police arrived.

According to the police, Rohit told them that he had tried to kill himself twice after he began suspecting Aarti of seeing some other person. The two were neighbours and in a relationship for the past few years, police said. But, they added, of late, she had stopped talking to him and he suspected that she was having an affair with someone else.

Girlfriend approached police after threats

Not only this, Aarti had approached the police on June 8 when Rohit threatened her and broke her mobile phone. She, however, also requested the cops not to be harsh on him.

The police then registered a non-cognisable (NC) offence and allowed Rohit to go after warning him not to trouble her. On June 17 night, Rohit called up Aarti but told her that he did so by mistake and she should not complain to the police about the call, said a police official citing Rohits questioning.

The police had assured Aarti they would take strict action if Rohit bothered her again.

Assistant commissioner of police Umesh Mane of the Tulinj division said they will get more details once the probe progresses in the case. The police will seek his remand for a detailed probe. We already have the initial information, he said.

On Wednesday, BJP leader Chitra Wagh met DCP Zone II Pournima Chowgule-Shringi over the incident. She said police have claimed that they took timely action when Aarti approached them but were not aware if anything happened after that.

Wagh said it is unfortunate that despite the presence of so many people, no one rushed to save the young woman. She expressed confidence that the state will ensure justice for the family by fast-tracking the case.

The BJP leader said she also met Aartis mother and sister and assured them of all possible assistance.

(With PTI inputs)
Amid an ongoing acute water shortage in the state, the Karnataka government might raise the water tariff in Bengaluru, hinted Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar.

Hinting at the possibility of an increase in the monthly water charges for the users, Shivakumar claimed that the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is running under financial loss.

The water tariff has not been increased in Bengaluru in the last 10 years. There has been a great loss. We have to take on new projects. No bank is coming forward to finance the BWSSB. Every year we suffer a big loss. The financing companies are saying that we are only politicising the issues but not trying to at least break the company. I have asked the officials to examine the issue. We will put the facts in the public domain and then we will take the decision, said the Deputy Chief Minister.

VIDEO | Heres what Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said on possibility of rise in water tariff in Bengaluru.The water tariff has not been increased in Bengaluru in the last 10 years. There has been a great loss. We have to take new projects. No bank is coming forward to pic.twitter.com/CtYBXsYakE  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2024

According to the Deccan Herald, the BBMP had sought about a 10 per cent hike in the water tariff for residential buildings and 15 per cent for commercial establishments in 2023.

This comes just a few days after the Karnataka government decided to increase the fuel charges by Rs 3.

Last year, the Congress government also hiked the electricity tariffs in the state. The energy costs and power tariffs in Karnataka were hiked by Rs 2.89 per unit in June 2023, leaving citizens to shell out an additional Rs 2.89 per unit if their power usage exceeds the 200-unit slab.

Opposition Attacks Cong Over Possibility of Water Tariff Hike

Soon after Shivakumars statement on the water crisis, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders launched an all-out attack on the Congress party claiming that their pre-poll promises of freebies and subsidies in the state are now coming to bite them back.

Calling the Congress administration in Karnataka a Khata Khat loot model, BJP Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said, First electricity, milk & petrol diesel now water tariff to be hiked in Karnataka by Looteri Congress.

Congress has looted the state treasury so now it is imposing Rahul Jiziya tax Instead of paying Rs 1 lakh to women it is robbing the farmers, middle class & common man  its called Khata Khat loot model, he added.
As people across the globe prepare to celebrate International Day of Yoga (IDY), ISRO and CCRNY decided to take it into the next orbit  quite literally.

Ayush body CCRNY (Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy) organised a conference on Yoga for Space at S-VYASA University campus, Bengaluru, in collaboration with SVYASA University, the Institute of Aerospace Medicine, Bengaluru, IIT Delhi, Human Space Flight Centre ISRO, Bengaluru, and NIMHANS.

Talking about the journey of IDY through countries, different terrains, conditions, etc., Dr Raghavendra Rao, director, CCRNY said, We see many things happening related to yoga around the globe. This year, we said  why not go into space?

Dr C Geethakrishnan, deputy director, Human Space Flight Centre, ISRO, said that yoga can play a crucial role in crew safety measures and must necessarily have a role in astronaut training. Not just the number and durations of space missions have increased over the years, but importantly, Indias activity has been steadily increasing in this area, he shared. Earth is the cradle of humanity, but one cannot remain in the cradle forever, he quoted, to drive home the point that space exploration had become a necessity. Just as sending people to orbit in Gaganyaan was important, equally crucial is bringing them back safely, he said.

SURVIVING PHYSIOLOGICAL CHALLENGES

The gathering of scientists discussed the need for devising a yoga protocol that could help astronauts endure the severe conditions necessarily involved in space missions. They pointed out that all body systems were affected due to:

Cosmic radiation  which can lead to increased DNA damage posing a risk of cancers and other health issues.

Effects of microgravity  leads to muscle atrophy, bone loss, fluid imbalance, altered immune response.

Psychological Stress  owing to limited resources, loneliness, depression.

Space Adaptation Syndrome  including motion sickness, disorientation, nausea.

Altered Circadian Rhythm  that is, issues with the sleep-wake cycle.

Limited Access to Healthcare  and thus, need for self-care.

Prof Biswajit Sinha of the Institute of Aerospace Medicine explained how no system of the body from the head to toe is spared when in space: The bodys response to space flight causes variations like  fluid shifts and changes in cardiovascular, respiratory, muscle, bone, neuro-vestibular systems, sleep and circadian rhythm, haematological, psychological, taste and odour, gastrointestinal, nutrition, behaviour, radiation, and immunology.

Dr KK Deepak, eminent physiologist and professor at the Centre for Biomedical Engineering (IIT-D), said, Those who do yoga training can better tolerate the changes that occur in space. Terming the period after return from space as a very unhappy state, the physiologist explained that astronauts are unable to stand because of the muscle loss, the effects on soleus muscles and gastrocnemius, besides other subtle changes in the body. He suggested a yoga protocol.

Since yoga cannot be attempted in space without support, he talked about an invention of his  Pro-gravity body gear (patent pending)  in the AIIMS Space Physiology Lab. The gear, loaded from head to toe and fastened in the shoes, is used for earth-based experiments on microgravity. The professor said he had conducted several self-experiments using it.

Heres the suggested yoga protocol for astronauts:

ADAPTING TO SPACE WITH YOGA

Dr Raghuram NV, chairman of Yoga Bharati, USA, said that adapting to the environs in space was difficult on account of three factors  microgravity, claustrophobia, and loneliness. You are hanging between life and death all alone, enclosed in a small space. Psychological makeup is a crucial factor  especially because the study can begin only once the astronauts have adapted. Yoga can quicken this adaptation process, he explained.

Yoga experts explained the importance of yoga in space missions drawing from other experiences.

Dr BR Ramakrishna, pro-chancellor, SVYASA University, said, There is less Prana-shakti when in space. But yoga knows the secrets to survival. He gave examples of people living underwater and in glass chambers for extended hours, by working on their breathing. He said that by integrating yoga, Indian astronauts could be well prepared for space.

Dr Apar Saoji, principal (School of Yoga and Naturopathy), SVYASA University, said, From the available evidence, we can infer that yoga for space explorers can help broadly in minimising effect of cosmic radiations, bettering physical and mental health, enhanced cognitive abilities, autonomic balance, and self-care and health preservation.

Citing instances of yoga helping at the Earths poles, in submarines, etc, Kashinath Samagandi, director, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, said that yoga has the capacity to get people acclimatised to different extreme conditions. Not just Asana and Pranayama, but lifestyle aspects  ahara and vihara in Ayurveda, relating to food, sleep, rest and recreation  have to be adjusted to a different Loka (plane), for physical and emotional wellbeing of astronauts, he added.

As a special initiative, ISRO is organising Yoga for Space on International Day of Yoga 2024, where all scientists and officials will perform yoga together as per the Common Yoga Protocol. The team from the Gaganyaan project will also join the global campaign by practising yoga on the occasion.
The sixth Guru of Sikhism, Guru Hargobind Sahib, was born on June 19, 1595, to Mata Ganga and Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Guru of the Sikhs. Guru Hargobind is recognised as the driving force behind the Sikh communitys militarisation. With the community at receiving end of persecution by the Mughal rulers, he underlined the need for the populace to cultivate a martial mentality.

Guru Hargobind Sahib was always seen with two swords, reflecting the Miri-Piri ideology. The first sword, Miri, signified power, whereas Piri represented his spiritual abilities.

All You Need To Know
Originating in India, yoga is an activity that enhances an individuals physical and mental well-being. The Sanskrit word yoga, which means to join or to unite, represents the fusion of the human body and the mind. It is a holistic exercise that plays a key role in building strength and resilience. Yoga is a terrific tool for stress management as well. People from across the globe even come to India to learn yoga.

ALSO READ: International Yoga Day 2024: Best Wishes, Images, Inspiring Quotes and Messages to Celebrate Day of Yoga on June 21!

Every year, the International Day of Yoga is observed on June 21. This year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebrations at Srinagars Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre. Heres a look at the history, theme, significance, and celebration of International Yoga Day 2024.

International Yoga Day 2024: History

In 2014, 175 United Nations member states supported the record-breaking resolution to establish the International Day of Yoga. This move was initiated by India led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the UN General Assembly. In his address at the assembly, PM Modi said, Yoga is an invaluable gift from our ancient tradition.

As Yoga Day approaches, I am sharing a set of videos that will offer guidance on various Asanas and their benefits. I hope this inspires you all to practice Yoga regularly. https://t.co/Ptzxb89hrV Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 11, 2024

Yoga embodies unity of mind and body, thought and actiona holistic approach that is valuable to our health and well-being. Yoga is not just about exercise; it is a way to discover a sense of oneness with yourself, the world, and nature. As a result, the first International Day of Yoga was celebrated on June 21, 2015.

International Yoga Day 2024: Date

Celebrated on June 21, International Yoga Day is a testament to the spiritual and physical prowess that yoga has brought to the world stage. The day inspires people to practice Yoga daily.

International Yoga Day 2024: Theme

This year the theme of International Yoga Day is Yoga for Self and Society. The day will be celebrated with various events and sessions globally.

International Yoga Day 2024: Significance

Yoga is more than just physical exercise. It is a way to energise an individuals soul, body and mind. With todays modern fast-paced lifestyle, everyone must incorporate yoga into their daily routine.

Every year, the Ministry of AYUSH arranges a grand event at Rajpath in New Delhi. The event, also attended by PM Modi, sees people worldwide coming together to perform Yoga.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF YOGA FAQS

What is International Day of Yoga?

International Day of Yoga is an annual event celebrated on June 21 to raise awareness worldwide about the benefits of practicing yoga.

When was International Day of Yoga established?

The United Nations General Assembly declared June 21st as International Day of Yoga in 2014.

Why June 21st?

June 21st is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and holds a special significance in many parts of the world.

How is International Day of Yoga celebrated?

International Day of Yoga is celebrated worldwide with mass yoga sessions, workshops, lectures, and other events promoting the practice of yoga.

Who can participate in International Day of Yoga?

Everyone! Yoga can be adapted for people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels.

Do I need any experience to participate in International Day of Yoga events?

Many events offer beginner-friendly sessions, so experience is not necessary.

What are the benefits of practicing yoga?

Yoga offers a wide range of benefits, including improved physical and mental health, stress reduction, increased flexibility and strength, and enhanced mindfulness.

Are there any online resources for International Day of Yoga?

Yes, there are many online resources available, including videos, articles, and websites dedicated to International Day of Yoga. The official website of the United Nations has information about the event: https://www.un.org/en/observances/yoga-day

What are the different styles of yoga?

There are many different styles of yoga, each with its own philosophy and approach. Some popular styles include Hatha yoga, Vinyasa yoga, Iyengar yoga, Ashtanga yoga, and Kundalini yoga.

PM Narendra Modi is also sharing videos of different poses on his X, formerly Twitter, handle everyday.

Here is why you must practice Shashankasana regularly pic.twitter.com/95kwzrKYTD Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2024

What should I wear to a yoga event?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.

Do I need a yoga mat?

Some events may provide yoga mats, but its always a good idea to bring your own if you have one.
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan bought the first ticket of Nag Ashwins highly-anticipated film Kalki 2898 AD during the movies pre-release event in Mumbai on Wednesday. Kalki 2898 AD producer C. Aswani Dutt handed over the ticket to Amitabh on stage. The actor, who paid Rs 500 after receiving the first ticket of the movie, was all praise for the producer for being extremely supportive throughout the films shoot.

Amitabh even touched Aswani Dutts feet and called him the most simple and humble human being hes ever met. Every time you are on set, he is the first person to be there. He is at the airport to receive you. Jab kabhi bhi hum koi aisa kaam kar rahe ho jo inko lage nahi karna chahiye kyuki takleef hogi, hell be like, dont make them do these stunts or have you taken precautions or not? Nobody thinks like this. Thank you so much sir, Amitabh said during the event.

The trailer for Kalki 2898 AD was released recently, surpassing expectations. Directed by Nag Ashwin, it features Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh, Kamal Haasan, and Disha Patani. The trailer suggests a futuristic take on the Mahabharat. The story begins in Kaashi, a land rich in resources, ruled by Saswata Chatterjees character, who demands complete loyalty. A prophecy reveals a child will overthrow him, and this child is carried by Deepika Padukones character. To protect his reign, the king puts a bounty on her head.

Prabhas character, Bhairava, a top hunter, believes its his destiny to capture her. Amitabh Bachchans Ashwatthama aims to protect her. The trailer ends with an intense glimpse of Kamal Haasan, leaving fans excited.

Kalki 2898 AD is set to release on June 27, 2024.
Actor Anil Kapoor is set to replace Salman Khan as the new host of Bigg Boss OTT 3. Colors TV reality show Bigg Boss has become synonymous with Salman, who has been hosting it since its fourth season. Anil Kapoor, who has co-starred with Salman in films such as No Entry, Race 3, Biwi No. 1, and Yuvvraaj, said the former presenter is excited about him stepping in as the host for the upcoming OTT season of the controversial reality show.

He is irreplaceable and so am I. Everyones asking this question but it is very wrong. Nobody can replace Salman Khan. Similarly, nobody can replace Anil Kapoor. I spoke to him about it and he was excited that Ive now taken over a non-fiction show.

I wanted to do something different for a long time now. Ive done many movies, judged shows but have never done anything like Bigg Boss, so Im very excited for it, the actor told reporters here at the press conference of Bigg Boss OTT season three.

Calling Salman his younger brother and friend, Anil Kapoor said replacement was an incorrect term and that actors often get replaced due to various reasons.

Everyone has work, sometimes for some reason one cant do it or doesnt have time to do it. Recently, Ive been replaced. I dont know the reason for getting replaced, but these things happen.

Many people have replaced me, Ive also replaced people. We are just doing a job, we should do it with a lot of sincerity and honesty, he added.

The 67-year-old also seemed unfazed when asked about being trolled on social media and being pitted against Salman as a host.

Do it (trolling). How does it matter? Trolling is a part of life now. It is a part of social media, you have to face it. Ive worked with honesty and sincerity, and by the grace of God, most of the times it (response) has been positive.

Sometimes, a few things didnt work. Even when things dont work, I still keep on doing different things. Ive been here (in the industry) for 45 years and I mustve done something right (in my career) that Im still here today, he said.
Being a global star and a personality whos known all over the world can be as challenging as it is fun. While we can only sit and guess what it would be like, during the most recent episode of the Hollywood Round Table, a few top actors came together and discussed their lives and professions. The men of The Hollywood Reporters annual Comedy Actor Emmy Roundtable shared it all, from the most bizarre feedback they have received over the years to the strangest fan encounters till now and everything in between.

This time, THR had actor and comedians Bowen Yang, Anthony Mackie, Ricky Martin, Theo James, Kelsey Grammer and John Goodman at The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica for the fun-filled episode. Each one of them gave us a sneak peek into the hilarious real-life experiences they had throughout the conversation. However, one of the funniest segments during the episode was when the actors were asked about any particularly weird fan interactions they had.

In response to the question, Anthony Mackie shared a particular interaction story that left everyone slightly disgusted and laughing out loud.

Anthony Mackie said he was in Vancouver, shooting Altered Carbon. While in a bar, he saw a young lady, who he guessed had some special needs. Hence, he told his bartender to ask the lady to come and say hello to him.

She makes her way around the bar and everybody in the restaurants like, Hes so nice. So shes like, Can we take a picture? I was like, Well, give me your phone. If youre discreet, I can take a picture. So I take the picture, she looks at it and she pukes from here all the way down to my shoes. This is after two dozen oysters, a lobster, he explained, which Martin, along with other guests found horrible.

He says that she soon ran out of the restaurant. The waiter came, took him back to the oyster wash-off and washed him clean with a water hose.

They take my clothes. He goes across the street to T.J. Maxx and gets me some sweatpants and a graffiti T-shirt, and I come back out and this woman is like, Im sorry, can I take a picture, he added.

All others bust into laughter as he explains that it was a different woman and not the one whom he met earlier.

Meanwhile, he ended his story revealing, She was so gone. So I asked the other woman, Yo, I was just trying to be nice to your special needs friend. She was like, Special needs? Thats my boss.
The Bombay High Court has allowed the release of Annu Kapoor starrer Hamare Baarah. On Wednesday, Live Law reported that the court allowed the film to hit theatres on June 21 after makers agreed to delete objectionable portions. A division bench comprising Justice BP Colabawalla and Justice Firdosh Pooniwalla passed the order a day after they mentioned that the film does not hurt the sentiments of the Muslim community and is rather for the upliftment of women.

On Tuesday, the court said that even though the films first trailer was objectionable, it has been removed. It further shared that all objectionable scenes from the movie have also been deleted. The movie is in fact for the upliftment of women. The movie has a Maulana misinterpreting the Quran and one Muslim man objects to the same in the scene. So this shows that people should apply their mind and not blindly follow such Maulanas, the high court said as quoted by the news agency PTI.

Hamare Baarah was initially supposed to hit theatres on June 7. However, several petitions were filed in the HC seeking a ban on the film. The pleas claimed that Annu Kapoors film was derogatory towards the Muslim community and had distorted what the Quran says. While the High Court postponed the release of the movie, it later permitted the release for June 14 after the makers agreed to delete objectionable portions directed by the Central Board for Film Certification (CBFC).

The petitioners then moved the Supreme Court, which imposed a stay on the films release and called the films teaser offensive. Until disposal of the petition before the High Court, screening of the movie in question shall remain suspended, the bench ordered.

Since its announcement, Hamare Baarah, starring Annu Kapoor, Manoj Joshi, and Paritosh Tripathi, has captured the publics attention for its bold narrative. Several people have alleged that there is a glimpse of uncouth crude and communal propaganda in the films trailer. Others argued that Hamare Baarahs trailer is disturbing and can poison the minds of an entire generation. Amidst the raging controversy, the films trailer was abruptly pulled down from online platforms, after releasing on May 30. The film was also banned in Karnataka.

Recently, Annu Kapoor also slammed those criticising his film. In an exclusive chat with News18 Showsha, the actor shared that everyone is quick to make judgments on the film even before watching it. He urged people to watch the film first and then make an opinion about it.

At a personal and an impersonal level, Im an atheist. My director and producers thought that I was the right person who would be able to implement their vision on celluloid. So, I tried my best to justify my character. Im not bothered about the rest. Films are a make-believe world where Im chosen as an artist and my job is to justify my art, the actor said.
The life of a global superstar is filled with appreciation and memorable moments, but it also comes with some added responsibilities and challenges we might not be aware of. RM, the leader of the popular K-pop boyband BTS, has been experiencing major changes in his life since he enlisted for his mandatory military service in the South Korean military. It has almost been six months since he began serving in the Army. Recently, he took to Weverse and shared some insights about this phase of his life.

Reflecting on his time so far, RM shared that he has been busy with his duties, to the point where he couldnt even mark the 11th anniversary of BTS on social media. It was [BTS] 11th anniversary not long ago, but I couldnt leave even a short post because I was busy. Comeback To Me (his song) came out a month ago, and RPWP came out three weeks ago. Last April, I postponed my plan to enlist with [J-Hope] and ended up joining hands with my younger siblings. I think I spent the last 23 years just drinking and working. Im jealous of my friends sergeants badge but I have no regrets. (lol), he said, reports Billboard.

In his post, RM also talked about not being able to share his thoughts in person. He explained that his recent album is an honest portrayal of his thoughts and struggles. He urged his fans to listen to it on repeat to understand it better.

This is my first work where I havent been able to share my thoughts in person. Theres a lot I want to say, but its all written in the album This is just an album in which I struggled to be honest with myself. I hope you read it over and over again for a long time, he reportedly added.

In a very emotional and heartfelt part of his post, he also mentioned his fellow BTS member Jin. Jin has just completed his military service last week. All the BTS members had reunited to welcome Jin back. RM had even played a saxophone to their hit song Dynamite.

Further into his Weaverse post, RM said that he could feel how lonely and difficult it must have been for Jin to be the first to serve. I brought a saxophone to play for fun, but in reality, I had mixed feelings. I wonder if it would have been very lonely and difficult to go first.. what would it have been like? One year and six months is fair to everyone here, he added, as reported by Billboard.

The BTS leader also expressed his longing for his bandmates. Jin always used to talk about it. I miss the members so much. I bet you do too. Now that I am scattered and living somewhere in Gangwon-do, I understand deeply. When we actually talked face to face, I realised again the things that never change, the place I had to return to, and what kind of person I was It was a meaningful and precious time for all of us.

All BTS members are expected to reunite in June 2025.
Telugu superstar Chiranjeevis former son-in-law, Sirish Bharadwaj, has passed away. Reportedly, Sirish breathed his last on Wednesday morning at a private hospital in Hyderabad where he was admitted due to an illness. Actor Sri Reddy confirmed the news of Sirishs death. However, the Bharadwaj family has not issued any statement as of now.

Sri, who shares a good bond with Chiranjeevis family, took to her Facebook handle to mourn the death of Sirish. (Chiranjeevi ex alludu) sirish bharadwaj is no more..At least now Rest in peace raaa, sirish bhardwaj everyone cheated on you raa," she wrote. Later, Sai also took to her X (formerly known as Twitter) account and wrote, Rest in peace sirish."

How Was Sirish Related To Chiranjeevi?

Chiranjeevis daughter Sreeja Konidela eloped with Sirish in 2017 and got married. At that time, Sreeja was just 19 years old whereas Sirish was 22. Their wedding was reportedly against Chiranjeevi and his familys will. The Telugu superstar had filed a complaint against Sirish, claiming she was a minor. However, Sreeja soon spoke to the media and claimed that she had a threat from her familys side. She even sought police protection against her father. Sreeja and Sirish welcomed their first child, a baby girl in 2008.

However, Sreeja and Sirishs married life started to face issues in 2011 when the former accused her husbands family of harassment, claiming they demanded dowry from her. The two got divorced in 2014 following which Sreeja reconciled with her family. Sreeja later married Kalyaan Dhev in 2016 but parted ways in 2022.

Chiranjeevis Upcoming Movie: Vishwambhara

Meanwhile, on the work front, Chiranjeevi is currently shooting for his 156th film Vishwambhara. In February this year, the makers of the movie shared an intriguing poster as they also announced that the much-awaited film will hit theatres on January 10, 2025. A LEGEND RISES. MEGASTAR @KChiruTweets sets his foot into the mighty world of #Vishwambhara (heart and fire emojis. Shoot in Progress. In cinemas 10th Jan 2025 (sic)," the makers wrote.

The mega fantasy adventure is directed by Vassishta of Bimbisara fame under the production house, UV Creations. Vikram, Vamsi, and Pramod are producing the movie, which is said to be one of Chiranjeevis costliest films to date.
Actor Darshan is being probed for his alleged connection to the Renuka Swamy murder case. Renukaswamy was found dead at Sumanahalli Bridge in Bengaluru on June 8, 2024. He used to reportedly work at an Apollo Pharmacy branch in Chitradurga. Reportedly, Renuka used to send vulgar messages to Kannada actress Pavithra Gowad, a friend of Darshan. Angry about this, Renuka Swamy was murdered and his dead body was allegedly thrown in a canal at Kamaksshipalya, Bengaluru in front of Darshan.

And now, shocking details have emerged from the investigation. As per CNN-News18, The body was kept in the security room in the shed. So far, around 118 materials have been seized by the police, which includes vehicle, objects used to hit Renukaswamy. Theres an electric shock angle also thats also come to light. Electric shock was used to torture Renukaswamy by one of the accused perpetrators. An electrical insulation device was used to administer electric shock to the victim. Gold jewellery and a watch were also stolen from the victims body after his death. The police have conducted spot investigation in almost 14 locations in Bengaluru where the murder took place at the shed, also at the residence of Pavitra Gowda.

Previously, Karnataka police officials also claimed that Renuka Swamy was beaten with sticks by Darshan and his aides, who then allegedly threw him against the wall, which led to his death. It was Pavithra who instigated Darshan to punish Renukaswamy. Accordingly, the plan was hatched, sources said.

In another big development in the Renuka Swamy murder case, Kannada actor Darshans wife Vijayalakshmi appeared before the Karnataka police on Wednesday, June 19. Previously, she was issued a notice by the police officials to appear before them to record her statement in the case. Reportedly, Vijayalakshmi was questioned regarding Darshans shoes which were allegedly used on the day of Renuka Swamys murder and were later found at her Bengaluru residence.
In two days from now, Bigg Boss OTT will return with its third season. Everyone is eager to know who will be participating in the controversial reality show this time. Recently, some media portals claimed that the Indian actress and model, Giorgia Andriani, will also be a part of Bigg Boss OTT 3. However, Arbaaz Khans former girlfriend has now officially confirmed that she will not be part of the show.

On Wednesday, Giorgia Andriani addressed her Bigg Boss OTT 3 rumours and issued a statement which read, I am not going in the Bigg Boss House. Giorgia has worked in several Bollywood movies including Guest in London and Welcome to Bajrangpur. She has also been a part of several music videos like Biba and Dil Jisse Zinda hai.

Giorgia Andriani was previously in a relationship with Arbaaz Khan. However, they broke up in December 2022. After their breakup, Arbaaz married Sshura Khan. After his wedding, Arbaaz opened up about his breakup with Giorgia when he told Indian Express, I know some of the recent interviews somehow give the feeling that things were right till the end, which is not true. It is unfortunate that I have to sit here and make such clarification but my previous relationship was over almost one and half years before I even met Sshura. I had a year of dating period with her. There was no timeline given in those interviews and such interviews make people believe that Oh I moved from this into that. But thats not true. I was not dating anyone for almost a year and a half till I met Sshura. That is the reality.

The timing of somebody speaking about a breakup just around the time I was getting married and post my marriage, seems a little inappropriate. If you have broken up almost two years back and you didnt have the option to speak about it then, then to speak about it now, doesnt seem right, the actor added.

Meanwhile, Bigg Boss OTT 3 will premiere on Jio Cinema on June 21, 2024. The show will be hosted by Anil Kapoor. Some of the celebrities who are likely to participate in Bigg Boss OTT 3 are Sai Ketan Rao, Vada pav girl Chandrika Dixit, Mika Singh, Sonam Khan, Sana Makbul, Sana Sultan and Maxtern aka Sagar Thakur.
Kannada actress Pavithra Gowda was taken to the hospital after she complained of dizziness during the police investigation. Pavithra was taken into police custody in connection to the Darshans fan murder case. As per latest reports, Pavithra was being questioned with the others accused in the case when she complained of her ill health. It was later revealed that she had low blood pressure because she had not eaten during the day. The Police also clarified that she was not hospitalised.

According to a Deccan Herald report, the doctor treating Pavithra confirmed that there is nothing to worry about. She was not hospitalised. She didnt collapse. She said that she felt dizzy, S Girish, Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), said. The officer added that she was on administered glucose. Pavithra returned for questioning soon after.

The glucose levels were low as she hadnt eaten anything since the morning. She also had gastritis due to the non-intake of food. Her blood pressure was also low. She was administered intravenous fluids, the doctor treating her said.

For the unversed, Pavithra has been taken into custody on charges of murdering Renukaswamy (33), a resident of Chitradurga. Pavithra, Darshan and 13 of his associates have been arrested for the murder of Renuka Swamy.

Renuka Swamy was found dead at Sumanahalli Bridge in Bengaluru on June 8, 2024. He used to reportedly work at an Apollo Pharmacy branch in Chitradurga. Previously, police officials claimed that Renuka used to send vulgar messages to Kannada actress Pavithra Gowad, a friend of Darshan. Angry about this, Renuka Swamy was murdered and his dead body was allegedly thrown in a canal at Kamaksshipalya, Bengaluru in front of Darshan.

According to a report by NDTV, the autopsy report found 15 wounds on his body including marks on the head, abdomen, chest and other parts. As per the report, Swamys head rammed a mini truck which was parked in a shed in Bengaluru and has now been seized by the police.
Amitabh Bachchan and Prabhas got into a fun banter during the pre-release event of Kalki 2898 AD, courtesy of pregnant Deepika Padukone. As Deepika was getting off stage after her introduction, Prabhas rushed to help her by holding her hand. However, Amitabh Bachchan, who plays Ashwatthama in Nag Ashwins directorial, playfully hit Prabhas as the veteran actor also got up from his seat to help Deepika, but the Baahubali star held her hand.

In a video, shared by Viral Bhayani on Instagram, Deepika left in splits after Prabhas and Amitabh got into the fun banter because of her. Amitabh even jokingly hit Prabhas and said, oye. Interestingly, Amitabh protects Deepikas character in Kalki 2898 AD, whereas Prabhas plays a top hunter who is on a mission to capture her.

Meanwhile, Amitabh Bachchan bought the first ticket of Nag Ashwins highly-anticipated film Kalki 2898 AD during the movies pre-release event. Kalki 2898 AD producer C. Aswani Dutt handed over the ticket to Amitabh on stage. The actor, who paid Rs 500 after receiving the first ticket of the movie, was all praise for the producer for being extremely supportive throughout the films shoot.

Amitabh even touched Aswani Dutts feet and called him the most simple and humble human being hes ever met. Every time you are on set, he is the first person to be there. He is at the airport to receive you. Jab kabhi bhi hum koi aisa kaam kar rahe ho jo inko lage nahi karna chahiye kyuki takleef hogi, hell be like, dont make them do these stunts or have you taken precautions or not? Nobody thinks like this. Thank you so much sir, Amitabh said during the event.

Kalki 2898 AD is set to release on June 27, 2024.
Ricky Martin, who has entertained millions over his three-decade-long music career, recently shared a pivotal moment on The Hollywood Reporters Roundtable with Anthony Mackie, Bowen Yang, John Goodman, Kelsey Grammer and Theo James. Martin recalled a challenging decision he made to prioritise his mental and physical health by backing out of a tour in Argentina at the last minute, despite pressure from his team to continue. After nearly 200 concerts in just two years, Martin felt exhausted and claimed he wouldnt survive if he continued. This decision came when he was about to leave Australia to complete the final leg of the tour in Argentina.

Martin explained, I left a tour I was exhausted, I was sad, I was depressed, I was not happy with what I was doing. I had been working for two years non-stop, 200 shows in two years. I was in Australia and we still had two more weeks to go. We had to go to Argentina to do the final and then everybody was going home. I like, Im not going to survive. Im not going to if we go to Argentina. Im going to collapse and Im going to collapse bad, I need to go home now. Please listen to me, I need to go home. Everybody was like, Youre crazy, were almost there, come on, lets do this, and Im like, No, no, no, no, you dont understand, if we dont go back home now, this is going to get ugly. I went back home and it was the best decision I ever made.

Ricky Martin explained that he prioritised his mental and physical health when he decided to cancel the tour in Argentina. After years of feeling unable to say no and constantly pleasing others, he wanted to be home with his dogs. Last year, he no longer enjoyed performing on stage. Despite the packed stadiums and applause from the audience, he felt sad and was unable to continue.

Ricky Martin last appeared as Robert Diaz, a gay Korean War veteran in Palm Royale season 1 opposite Kristen Wiig, Carol Burnett and Laura Dern.
In Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Kabir Khan assembled a stellar cast with Salman Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Harshaali Malhotra. The film follows an Indian man helping a speech-impaired girl return to Pakistan. Nawazuddin Siddiqui recently talked about working with Salman Khan, praising the great atmosphere on set. He recalled a tough scene where Salman had to carry him, describing the difficult terrain, exhaustion, and lack of oxygen. Director Kabir Khan eventually told them to sit down, which provided relief.

Nawazuddin also shared, during an interview with Zoom, how enjoyable it was to work on Bajrangi Bhaijaan, recalling the positive vibe and shared meals after shooting. He said, Yeh shoot amazing tha actually, Bajrangi Bhaijaan ka. Salman bhai ke filmon ka mohol bahut accha hota hai. We sit together and eat post shoot. (The shoot was amazing, of Bajrangi Bhaijaans. Salman Bhais films are always fun.)

In an interview with Connect Cine, Kabir Khan talked about Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 and its script status. He said there are no solid plans yet, but there are various ideas and interesting possibilities for continuing the story. He added, It could be Adventures of Bajrangi and Chand Nawab, so many ways of taking it forward lekin as of now at a script level hamare pass kuch nahi hai. But as of now, at a script level, we dont have anything.)

Meanwhile, in an interview with the Indian Express, Nawazuddin Siddiqui said that he and Anurag Kashyap are not close friends. He mentioned, Anurag and I are not even friends, frankly speaking. If we sit together we might not even talk to each other for hours. We are like that. We have flown together, travelled together for 5-6 hours without saying a word.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui rose to fame as one of the most in-demand actors in Bollywood. He took on various odd jobs to make ends meet, while pursuing his acting aspirations. From working as a watchman to selling coriander, he persevered for over a decade. Despite landing small roles in a few successful films, it was his remarkable performance in Gangs of Wasseypur that propelled him to stardom.
Sanjay Kapoor, despite being part of a longstanding film family, has faced challenges in his over three-decade-long career. Recently, he found renewed success with the popularity of OTT platforms. His films like Raja (30th anniversary) and Prem (29th anniversary) mark significant milestones. Sanjay has also starred in recent movies such as Bloody Daddy, Merry Christmas, Murder Mubarak, and House Of Lies, where he played a cop for the first time. He expressed excitement about this role, mentioning his love for mysteries and how Murder Mubarak followed soon after.

Talking about his current phase and the variety of roles hes taking on, Sanjay Kapoor feels fortunate. He said, I am very fortunate that directors are offering me diverse roles, this is what experience does. They are ready to give me a chance; you can be choosy, but you can only choose from what you are offered. I have been fortunate, I am ready to experiment. I am not going by that if people liked me in a certain role, I will just do those roles. Directors have been so nice to me, be it Bloody Daddy, Murder Mubarak, or even House Of Lies. I was scared to play the roles in Murder Mubarak and Bloody Daddy because the characters could get caricaturish, but they were handled so well that they left a lasting impression.

Sanjay also observed that nowadays, theres a lot of work and a lot of talented actors. He said, There is a lot of work happening, but if there were 100 actors 20 years back, today there are 1000 actors. Everybody wants to cast fresh faces, and in OTT you can take that chance to cast good talent. You dont depend on a star or a face, today everyone wants a fresh face. So if there is lots of work, the availability of talent is also multiplied by 100. You have to be on your toes because every day someone new is coming and he is more talented.

Sanjay Kapoor also talked about how his own tough journey has made him more careful about his daughter Shanaya Kapoors acting aspirations. He said, Shanaya has seen my journey very closely, and she is very intelligent, she has seen how I fought it out and understood that one has to keep the focus on work and not lose hope. Just keep trying, and what is yours will be yours. She is working very hard. Even during Covid, she was training and I didnt have to tell her that. I am always there for her, but to just see if her vision and direction are right.
Shahid Kapoors wife Mira Rajput has landed in trouble with social media users after a video of her with her assistant surfaced online. In a video, Mira was seen out and about in the Mumbai rains. While she looked beautiful in a casual fit, social media users couldnt ignore the fact that Miras assistant was holding the umbrella while she walked towards the cameras.

The video was shared by a paparazzo on Instagram and many social media users took to the comments section to criticise her. Khud se umbrella bhi nhi pakda jaata innse , a social media user wrote. Is she Princess of somewhere? a user asked. Even princess Kate Middleton hold her umberella, added another. Why cant they hold an umbrella, a social media user wrote.

Watch the video below:

Mira recently made headlines after she shared a Reel with her brother-in-law, actor Ishaan Khatter. They recreated the I Won Brother I Won meme. In the recreated video, Mira displayed her acting chops while mouthing the dialogues while Ishaan supported her. I won brother I won. You lost you damn it, you lost. Bye brother, bye, Mira lip-synced to the video. She shared the video with the caption, Bye brother. Bye. Ishaan took to the comments section and wrote, Not being so #akind . The video caught everyones attention, including Shahid.

The actor showed his love for the video by liking it.

Mira is a doting mother, wife and daughter. Eight years since her marriage with Shahid, she has formed an incredible bond with her family. She also shares a good repo with her brother-in-law Ishaan Khatter, as evident in their social media posts. Just a few days back, she turned cheerleader for her mother-in-law Neliima Azeem.
Sonakshi Sinhas brother Luv Sinha shed light on the cryptic posts hes been sharing since the news of Sonakshis wedding. It was revealed last week that Sonakshi Sinha is getting married to Zaheer Iqbal. Following the news, there were rumours that Shatrughan Sinha was unhappy that Sonakshi had not informed him about the wedding. To top it off, Reddit noticed that Luv doesnt follow Sonakshi on social media.

While he had not reacted to her wedding, Luv had been sharing cryptic posts. However, the actor-politician has now clarified that he doesnt share cryptic posts. Instead, he is loud and clear about his thoughts. Dear friends in the media. I dont post cryptic messages. When I have to say something Ill clearly say it, Luv Sinha said in a post shared on X.

Dear friends in the media. I dont post cryptic messages. When I have to say something Ill clearly say it. Luv S Sinha (@LuvSinha) June 18, 2024

Last week, Luv Sinha shared a throwback photo from his trip to Baku on his Instagram handle. Sharing the throwback photo, Luv wrote, The problem with time is, that we never have enough of it. #Memories #Baku #Throwback #Streetphotography #Christmas #Nightlife #A7R5. On Tuesday, he shared a vague post yet again.

Luv shared a throwback photo of himself on his social media account alongside a cryptic caption. Posting the pic, he wrote, What side will you embrace today? #twoface #duotone #duality #throwback #portrait.

Although he addressed the cryptic posts reports, Luv has remained tight-lipped about Sonakshis wedding. On the other hand, Shatrughan reacted to the wedding rumours. At first, the actor-politician admitted he wasnt aware about the wedding.

Sinha had told Times Now/Zoom that he had no clue about his daughter Sonakshis wedding and added, I am being asked by people close to me why I am not aware of this (the supposed wedding), and the media is aware of it. All I can say is, aaj kal ke bachche consent nahin lete maa-baap ke, sirf inform karte hain. We are waiting to be informed.

He then told Times of India that if the wedding is happening, he will give his blessings. If my daughter is getting married, I will give her my blessings and support her decision and choice. Sonakshi has the right to choose her companion, and I will be the happiest father on her wedding day. I will always wish her the best ek hi toh beti hai meri, Shatrughan said.
Swara Bhasker weighed in on the social media conversations surrounding Sonakshi Sinhas wedding with Zaheer Iqbal. While fans are happy for Sonakshi, a section of social media users are fixated over the fact that she is marrying a Muslim man. Swara, who also had an interfaith marriage, opened up about the backlash Sonakshi is receiving and said that it is Sonakshis choice to marry whoever she wants and no one can say anything about it.

Lots of experts offered their opinions during my wedding as well. But were talking about two consenting adults here. What they do in their private lives, whether they get married or not, its up to them. Its nobodys business if theyre living together, getting married in a court, or having a nikaah, or an Arya Samaj wedding. Its between the man and the woman, and their families. Its Sonakshis life; shes chosen her partner. Her partner has chosen her. Now its between them and their families. I find this a very time-waste debate, Swara told Connect Cine in a recent interview.

She added that the criticism is going to intensify if and when Sonakshi has a child. Wait and watch, when they have a child, there will be a separate debate around the childs name. Weve seen it happen with Kareena and Saifs kids, and with my kid. Its completely idiotic, but this isnt going to end anytime soon, she said.

Sonakshi and Zaheer are getting married on June 23. Meanwhile, Swara married to Samajwadi Partys Fahad Ahmad. They got married in court in February last year. They then hosted a fun week of wedding festivities for their family members. In June, Swara announced she was pregnant with her first baby and welcomed a daughter on September 23 last year. She recently celebrated her daughters first Bakrid.
In the midst of Israels war to end all wars- the military campaign in Gaza to finish Hamas  a proposed legislation has the Zionist country in ferment. The matter has reached a tipping point with Pnina Tamano-Shata, a Member of the Knesset, representing the National Unity Party, a part of the ruling coalition, submitting a bill to dissolve the 25th Knesset, and have fresh elections with broad consensus by October. At the heart of the debate is a draft bill pertaining to extending military conscription to Haredim, an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community that conventionally refuses to participate in Israels military defence.

All Israeli resident citizens, both male and female, are obliged to serve in the military for a period of 24 to 32 months. The actual service length might vary according to the recruits age, gender or professional training in medicine/dentistry. The ultra-Orthodox Haredi Jews, in addition to Israeli Arabs, are exempted from the compulsory draft. Though there is no specific law in force to exempt Haredi Jews, they are permitted a one-year deferral at a time, if they enroll themselves in yeshiva (Jewish religious seminaries) for the study of Torah. This convention has come down since the early days of Israel (estd. 1948) as per an understanding reached between the first Prime Minister Ben Gurion and leaders of the Haredim community.

A 2019 document from the US Law Library of Congress says that in consideration of the destruction of yeshiva in Europe due to the Holocaust, the goal of deferral was to prevent the closing of yeshiva in Israel due to their students being drafted into the armed forces. The situation improved within a few decades, and in 1998, a Supreme Court judgement held that religious schools were flourishing in Israel, and there was little reason to worry that the draft of yeshiva students into the armed forces would lead to the closure of those institutions.

However, politics almost always triumphs over principles when it comes to Israels coalition-based democracy. The general opinion is that Netanyahu is merely wasting time. He is trying to placate his coalition partners  the Shas Party and United Torah Judaism. These two political parties, representing the bulk of the Haredi communitys vote, together contribute 18 seats in the Knesset, which is vital for the survival of Benjamin Netanyahus government.

In May 2000, the Ehud Barak government saw two of its coalition partners viz. the secular Meretz party and ultra-Orthodox Shas party at loggerheads, over a budget cut to yeshiva. Meretz threatened to quit the coalition. Education Minister Yossi Sarid, belonging to Meretz, sobbed on camera even as mayors from around Israel requested to stay on. What is my message to the children, said Sarid, that there are no limits, no principles as reported by The Economist dated May 13, 2000 (P.49). Sarid had threatened to stop the budget for yeshiva, unless they decided to carry out administrative reforms. However, yeshiva are pocket boroughs of the Shas Party, which commanded 17 seats in the Knesset as against Meretzs 10. Thus, Meretz had to quit Baraks cabinet.

However, the Shas Party also left within a month, though over a different issue. Barak survived a no-confidence motion in the Knesset by a slender margin of seven as he departed to Camp David for Mid-East Peace Talks in July 2000.

The Tal Law (2002) was an attempt to provide a statutory authorisation to the Minister of Defence to approve yeshiva students draft deferments for a period limited to five years. However, a decade later, in February 2012, the Supreme Court struck down the Tal Law as unconstitutional. Thus, there is a legal vacuum on the subject.

The draft bill in question has divided the government as much as the country. His critics see Benjamin Netanyahu as trying to build a halfway house that would not fulfill the actual needs of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). The original bill was introduced by Benjamin Benny Gantz, the then defence minister, in the government of Naftali Bennett in August 2022. The bill was not targeted at Haredi Jews specifically, but intended to lay down a wider Israeli Service Plan, which would oblige all sectors of Israeli society to conduct national service in some form or the other.

The bill, which passed the first reading, lowered the conscription age for ultra-Orthodox to 21 years, but for a maximum of two years. According to it, a 21-year-old Haredi could join the national emergency and rescue services and receive vocational training. This measure would have also equipped the Haredi youths to integrate with the job market later.

According to proposed changes in the bill, the exemption age would rise to 22 years and then to 23 a year later. On the other hand, the budget for yeshiva would be cut by 20 per cent in the beginning. This would be followed by more significant cuts, but only if the recruitment targets fall short for successive years. These targets are 15 per cent (of students from yeshiva background), 25 per cent by 2030, and 35 per cent from 2036. The proposal allows two recruitment routes for the Haredi community to join the IDF: a three-week shortened service or a three-month service, after which soldiers transfer to reserved service.

Both Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Benny Gantz, the proposer of the original bill (2022) (now a minister without portfolio in Netanyahu cabinet), have expressed outrage with the current bill. They find the bill unrealistic, which fails to meet the gap between the demand and supply. The operational demands of the IDF have surged since the beginning of the campaign in Gaza last October. That the ultra-Orthodox Haredis would evade the obligation to defend the state, whose patronage they liberally enjoy, has left much of Israel fuming.

II

While Hamas, deeply inspired by Islamic theology, is overtly committed to the destruction of Israel, it is paradoxical that ultra-Orthodox Jews shirk from their responsibility of defending the Jewish state. This might prove that while Islam is a militarised religion, Judaism is essentially a peaceful creed. And they shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore (Isiah 2:4), says the Old Testament. This verse inspired Evgeny Vuchetich (1908-1974) to sculpt his famous bronze statue which stands on the ground outside of the United Nations Building in New York. It was gifted by the USSR to the global body in December, 1959. Even the godless USSR could not ignore the message contained in the Old Testament.

The ultra-Orthodox Jews claim that reading the Torah, or the first five books of the Hebrew Bible pertaining to Jewish law, is more important than serving in the armed forces. They argue that reciting the Torah in times of war protects the nation. This argument appears not only illogical but also disingenuous according to the standards of the Bible itself. The God of Old Testament did not allow the priestly classes a leave of absence from the battlefield. Where the Pentateuch of Torah viz. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy cease, the active duty of Torah scholars begins, that is in the Book of Joshua. The Levitical priests, who were ordained as teachers of law, carried the Ark of the Covenant, the most sacred relic in the Hebrew Bible, when Israelites under the leadership of Joshua began the final assault to wrest the Holy Land after wandering in the deserts for forty years.

In a willing suspension of disbelief, one feels amazed that when the Levitical priests, bearing the Ark of Covenant which contained the inscribed version of the Torah, dipped their feet into the river Jordan, the river stopped its flow and its water piled up in a heap, so that the Israelites could pass over through the dry bed of the river. Thereafter when Joshua, the leader of Israelites, mounted a campaign on the walled city of Jericho, seven priests blowing shofar (trumpet made from rams horn) walked in front of the Levitical priests who carried the Ark of Covenant, while the rest followed them in utter silence. This routine continued for six days, as per instructions of the God of Old Testament, until on the seventh after the blowing of the shofar, the Israelites together gave a loud shout, and the walls of Jericho fell down all at once (Joshua: 1-27).

That is as far as the scriptures go to prove that the God of Old Testament did not perceive an armchair role for practitioners of Torah in times of campaign. Read, whilst you arm you; arm you, whilst you read  the advice of Torquato Tasso in his epic poem Jerusalem Delivered (1581) might hold good for the ultra-Orthodox Jews.

The writer is author of the book The Microphone Men: How Orators Created a Modern India (2019) and an independent researcher based in New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
On June 17 morning, a railway accident killed scores of people near the Rangapani station (about 30 km from north Bengals New Jalpaiguri station) in the Katihar division of Northeastern Frontier Railway (NFR). Four compartments of the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjungha Express derailed (two went turtle) after being hit by a goods train from the rear.

Theres still no confirmed number of the dead, with the casualty varying from 6 to 15; the number of the injured varies between 30 and 60. The casualty could have been much higher but for the fact that the locomotive of the freight train rammed from behind the stationary express train, with the guards brake-van and two parcel vans facing the direct brunt of the accident. Had it been a collision between two express trains, the number of casualties would have been much higher  similar to what was witnessed during the Coromandel Express accident last year, in which at least 296 people died and more than 1,200 injured.

Decoding the reasons behind an accident is the domain of the Commissioner Railway Safety (CRS). But the Railway Board jumped the gun, saying: The goods train driver violated the signal. Contrarily, other reports quoting railway sources suggest there was automatic signal failure that morning and the goods train driver was issued a written authority by the Ranipatra station master, authorising him to pass all automatic signals between RNI (Ranipatra Station) and CAT (Chattar Hat Junction). If the truth is contrary to what the railway board opined initially, it is time for unconditional public apology.

Railway Minister at Site

Like the Balasore accident, where the railway minister supervised the relief and rescue operation day and night, he landed at the site of the latest accident too. It raises a fundamental question: With NDRF, SDRF, state police, district administration, local citizens, and railway personnel at the accident site, why should the railway minister be present there? And whether his presence galvanises or impedes the rescue and restoration operations.

Behind every such avoidable mayhem, there are at least dozens, if not hundreds, of cases of near miss of this type, and it is the composite failure of the railway authorities to not take these near-misses seriously despite other wise laudable achievement of Indian Railways running nearly 24000 passenger trains daily and carrying 1.59 billion tonnes of goods annually.

Blame Game Begins

True to their skin, politicians of all hues have spoken. While all are sympathetic to the dead and the injured, the Opposition is unanimous in training its guns on the government, especially railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The Congress has blamed the minister for mismanagement, and being busy with making reels, thus having no time to discuss safety of the people.

Former railway minister and current Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in whose state the latest accident has taken place, has the following to say: This government is only interested in elections. How to go for hacking how to go for manipulation They do not take care of amenities bathrooms are dirty and there are dirty things in bedding They do not take care of the railway staff.

The railway minister responded, saying that this is not the time for politics and the rescue operation has to be completed first.

Ironically, during Mamata Banerjees stint as railway minister, an accident involving the Howrah-Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Jnaneswari Super Deluxe Express saw at least 140 people killed and more than 200 injured.

Blood Stained

I do not have the complete record of railway accidents since 1853 when the first train ran between Boribunder and Thane in the country. But Wikipedia has records of railway accidents since 1901, and the twentieth century began with a major accident when on September 12, 1902, a derailment of the Bombay-Madras Mail on a bridge near Mangapatnam, Kadapa district killed 100 passengers.

A careful perusal of all the railway accidents since formation of the interim government by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946 brings out the humbling truth of every railway minister encountering major accidents during his respective tenures. Governments have come and gone but the accidents have stayed put obdurately. With the political memory fragile, it would be important to remember that the worst accident in the history of Indian railways took place at Badlaghat in Bihar in 1981 during Congress regime in which an estimated 300-800 people perished when the entire train plunged in the Bagmati river. Till date the cause of the accident is shrouded in mystery.

The Kanchanjungha Express accident is the first major accident of the year. Notwithstanding the fact that the year 2023 saw a major spike in the railway accident, nonetheless, the last 10 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi or for that matter the tenure of railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has been a shade better than their predecessors.

Elephant in the Room

Near misses, incidents and accidents in Indian Railways follow the typical parable of an elephant and six blind men of India. The entire story of identification of near-misses, incidents, and accidents in IR, is full of deceit and dishonesty where every department, every division and every zone are busy in massive operation cover up and not letting the truth out. Branch officers keep Division Railway Manager in the dark, who in turn does the same with the General Manager and the distant railway board mandarins sitting on the second floor of the Rail Bhawan are perennially in the dark and blissful in their ignorance. It is saddening to note that in the present era of instant connectivity, IR is unable to record-near-misses, incidents, and accidents real time.

Causes Galore

There are causes galore of why accidents continue to happen in India and why IR does not learn the lesson. Here are few of them:

One, railway safety is baby of none: And the principal reason is that even after the passage of twelve years since the submission of the report of the High Powered Committee on the Railways Safety headed by noted scientist Dr. Anil Kakodkar, IR is yet to implement its recommendation of setting up an independent safety architecture in form of the Rail Safety Authority (RSA). The Railway Ministry continues to play the role of police, pleader, and judge, with the rule-making, operations and the regulation all vested in the Railway Board. There is no oversight body to safeguard railway safety.

Two, whither Raksha Kavach: The trend of IR accidents in the last three decades is unmistakable: The bulk of accidents are caused by human error. Also, with substantial reduction in manned and unmanned level crossings, collisions have become bigger killers. A NITI Aayog report found that human failure, including the fault of railway staff, caused 87 per cent of the 586 consequential accidents recorded between 2012-13 and 2016-17. Worse, year-on-year, the share of fault of railway staff in accidents grew incrementally. Raksha Kavach, originally invented and patented by Konkan Railway, is one definitive way to stop collisions.

Had there been Kavach, the Kanchanjungha Express accident would have possibly been stopped. But thus far Kavach has been installed only on 1,500 km of the track and railways plans to extend it to 3,000 km in near future.

Three, IRMS is a flawed reform: It will come as a surprise to readers that the biggest chunk of IR officers are doctors. Historically, Indian Railways used to attract the countrys best talent from the Indian Civil Services Exam and Indian Engineering Services Exams as Class I officers. The Indian Railways Management Service (IRMS) has been a blotched reform. It is proving to be a nostrum that will kill the patient without curing the illness. I get nightmares thinking who will manage old, decrepit IR bridges in future and what will happen if one of the distressed IR bridges has its Morbi bridge moment. Even the committee headed by Bibek Debroy had recommended combining eight railways services into two  one general service and another technical service.

Four, poor human resource, poorer training: While the recruitment of Class-I officers in IR has been marred in controversy after introduction of IRMS, less said the better about the recruitment and quality of Class-III and Class-IV staff.

Here is one example: On January 30, 2024, Principal Special Judge for Central Bureau of Investigation, Hyderabad, Madhusudhan Rao in a case that saw justice after 14 years, sentenced the then Chairman of Railway Recruitment Board, Mumbai, Satendra Mohan Sharma, the then Chief Executive Officer of Hassan-Mangalore Rail Development Corporation A.K. Jagannadham and eight others to five years rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 7,87,000 in a case pertaining to paper leak of an exam conducted by RRB for posts of assistant station master and assistant loco pilot in 2010.

This is just the tip of the iceberg and the real malaise lies much deeper. Also, there are many back-channels for children of railway men to get jobs in IR: one is known as medical decategorisation. The appointment of Class-IV staff is among the most non-transparent recruitments in the country.

What is more surprising is the growing apathy of IR towards training and also lack of training opportunities. The National Academy of Indian Railways (NAIR), Vadodara, one of the finest training institutions to train Class-I officers in the country, has been dismantled. Zonal Railways still have something known as Zonal Training School (ZTC), but their curriculum, faculty, teaching methods and teaching standards have become pathetic. And, in the last four decades, at least this author has not seen a proper training centre in a railway division office (an average railway division has 18,000-30,000 employees).

Rewind and Reboot

For IR, it is the time to introspect, retrospect and make a firm resolve to let go of the chalta hai attitude, and imbibe the Mission Zero Rai Fatality statutorily. This statement of the author reminds him of Bill 1996/97:137 introduced and passed in Swedish Parliament to chart out the mission zero death goal for road fatalities in that country and it indeed achieved that goal. What Sweden can do vis-a-vis road fatalities; it is time for IR to do the same for rail fatalities. It is imminently doable.

If there is any doubt, IR needs to look at the Japanese Railway East (JR East) whose Shinkansen trains are incident free for decades, and which has a Rail Accident Museum to train its personnel.

The author is Multidisciplinary Thought Leader with Action Bias, India Based International Impact Consultant, and key watcher of changing national scenario. He works as President Advisory Services of Consulting Company BARSYL. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
In the recent Indian elections, a new government has been formed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He received congratulatory phone calls from world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who commended him for leading the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to victory in the parliamentary election. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate Modi on the NDAs victory.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni were among other leaders who congratulated Modi on X. Furthermore, several South Asian leaders attended Prime Minister Modis oath-taking ceremony, including heads of state from Maldives, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. This demonstrates international recognition of the new government.

Following his re-election, Prime Minister Modis first foreign visit was to Italy for the G7 Summit, which concluded on June 15 in Borgo Egnazia, Apulia. This visit highlights the significance of international recognition for elected governments.

It is a fundamental principle of international law that every independent state has the right to be represented on the world stage by its government. This holds true for India with the newly elected NDA government. International law dictates that the recognised government must be one that effectively governs its people and maintains authority within its borders.

Although no international judicial or executive body definitively determines statehood, the recognition of foreign governments typically falls under the purview of individual countries executive branches. This recognition by the international community is not merely symbolic; it is a duty enshrined in international law, carrying significant weight in shaping international rights and duties for the recognised government.

The recognition of a government is a matter of international law, distinct from the recognition of a state. State recognition is a more complex undertaking than government recognition. Generally, there are two modes of recognition: de facto recognition and de jure recognition. A state or government may be granted either de facto or de jure recognition.

Granting de facto recognition indicates that the recognised state or government possesses the essential attributes of statehood and is fit to be a subject of international law. Conversely, de jure recognition is granted when the recognising state is satisfied with the effective control demonstrated by the government previously granted de facto recognition. Generally, de jure recognition follows de facto recognition. It is legal and permanent; once granted, it cannot be withdrawn.

The international recognition of Prime Minister Narendra Modis government following Indias recent parliamentary elections underscores the importance of such acknowledgements on the world stage. The congratulatory messages from world leaders and Modis participation in the G7 Summit exemplify the practical implications of international law concerning government recognition.

This case study highlights the significance of government recognition and the legal frameworks underpinning these diplomatic practices.

Abhinav Mehrotra is Assistant Professor and Dr Biswanath Gupta is Associate Professor at OP Jindal Global University. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
There has been widespread speculation in media and social media over the last few days whether differences have arisen between the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its ideological mentee, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), after the Lok Sabha elections. It is also speculated that the RSS is perhaps not happy with the working style of the BJP leadership and the Narendra Modi government.

There were two major developments that sparked these speculations. First, a critical article about the BJP was published in an English weekly immediately after the Lok Sabha poll results were out where the BJPs performance remained short of expectations. This English weekly is often described as the mouthpiece of the Sangh. Second, a speech was given by Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat in Nagpur on June 10 in which he made certain remarks about the nature of electoral politics. These remarks were interpreted as a reprimand to the BJP.

It seems that due to lack of understanding about the working style of the RSS and with an intent to create confusion, a deliberate and well-planned narrative is being built up projecting that there is a power struggle between the RSS and the BJP. Let us look at some of the facts.

First, let us talk about the article published in the weekly. Two facts are important in this context. First, this weekly is not the mouthpiece of the Sangh. The Sangh has officially said many times that it does not have a mouthpiece. There are many publications who promote the ideology of the Sangh but none of them is a mouthpiece. Hence, the reports or editorials in these publications do not represent the official view of the Sangh.

Second, the official opinion of the Sangh is expressed only by the Sarsanghchalak and Sarkaryavah (General Secretary). Apart from this, sometimes the Sangh formally authorises some of its officials to talk to the media or to express their opinion publicly. The writer, editor or the publisher of this article in question do not fall in either these three categories. Therefore, it is not factually correct to consider this article as the viewpoint of the Sangh.

As far as the speech of the Sarsanghchalak is concerned, some analysts have termed his comments as a taunt on the BJP leadership, The one who really serves do that with restrain and dignity. Everyone works but while working one needs to follow that restraint. And the one who while working also remains detached, dignified and restrained, doesnt become arrogant. He is the one who deserves to be called Sevak.

Those who were trying to create controversy from this statement, ignored the fact that Bhagwat also said a few more things along with this comment, which gives the right context. He said, It came to my mind that there is no other way but this is best and simplest way to tell how the Sangh works. Bhagwat clearly said citing examples that he was explaining the attitude of the Sangh through his remarks.

Bhagwat further added, If we keep getting entangled in these things, the work will remain incomplete. He was making these remarks at the valedictory ceremony of an RSS training camp in Nagpur that was attended by swayamsevaks (RSS volunteers) and dignitaries from various walks of life. It is clear that what he meant was to caution the volunteers of the Sangh about remaining focused on their work while also explaining to dignitaries how the RSS functions. His remarks when looked at in this context do not seem to be aimed at either the BJP or at any individual leader. These remarks were taken out of context and misinterpreted in an attempt to create friction where none exists.

In the same speech, Bhagwat talked about the changing nature of Indian politics in context of recently held LokSabha polls. Is it not true that common citizens of the country are feeling that the level of debate amongst the political parties has hit rock bottom? This concern was reflected in Bhagwats speech.

It is a well-known fact that deep fake videos of BJP and Sangh officials were made and posted on social media during elections. During the election campaign, a web of lies was woven for political gain that the BJP would change the Constitution and end reservation. After the election, we saw women queuing up at Congress offices across the country to get Rs 8,500 per month to every poor family that was promised by Congress during the poll campaign.

This revealed the extent of false promises and blatant lies used by the Opposition in Lok Sabha polls to get a few more votes and to stop the BJP from coming to power. It is a matter of serious concern and has long-term repercussions for Indian democracy. Some of these issues were flagged in Bhagwats same speech.

The Sarsanghchalak said that during the election campaign, there was an attempt to spread false propaganda in the name of the Sangh. This was done by misusing technology, which is a matter of concern. In this context, he rightly cautioned that we need to do some course correction in our polity.

Bhagwat, referring to rivalry among political parties, said, This is competition, not a war among ourselves. The way these things were said, the way each other was reprimanded, if we do this during the campaign, it will increase discord in the society, society will be divided into two groups, doubts and suspicions will arise among us. This was also not taken into account. Organisations like the Sangh were also dragged into it without any reason. False propaganda was spread with the help of technology. Absolutely false. Is this how we should use science (and) knowledge? Good people do not misuse knowledge like this.

In fact, the Sarsanghchalaks speech indicated that we need a holistic reform in our political culture and all political parties should work together for this. He said, A lot of good has happened in the last ten years but this does not mean that we are free from challenges. The clear message of the Sarsanghchalak was that the mission to take India forward on the path of development should not become a victim of political rivalry and it is time to build on the foundation laid down by the Modi government during the last 10 years.

The writer is an author and columnist and has written several books. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Bhavani Revanna, the mother of rape accused Prajwal Revanna, who is alleged to be the main mastermind behind the kidnapping and forced confinement of a victim allegedly sexually assaulted by her son, may have been granted anticipatory bail by the Karnataka High Court, but the case is far from over, according to police sources.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) argued in court that Bhavani was the kingpin who not only planned the kidnapping and confinement of the victim but also used threats to dissuade her from filing a complaint against Prajwal.

Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) Ravivarma Kumar, representing the SIT, argued against granting bail to Bhavani before the bench of Justice Krishna S Dixit, stating that she had tried every means to thwart justice.

Varma told the court that investigations revealed Bhavani had been the main brain behind contacting seven other victims of sexual assault and used various methods to prevent them from complaining against Prajwal.

One of the victims, allegedly sexually abused by Prajwal, whose horrific episode was recorded by Prajwal on his phone and later leaked on a pen drive in Hassan, was kidnapped and confined for days in a farmhouse belonging to the Revanna family in KR Nagara, Mysuru. She was allegedly mentally tortured and forced to retract her statement, but her miraculous escape and subsequent meeting with the police revealed what had happened.

The victim shared details of her alleged abuse by the MP and his family with the SIT, and it is based on this case and two other complaints that the SIT built a strong case against Prajwal Revanna, leading to his arrest.

The SIT registered three cases of sexual assault against Prajwal based on evidence found during investigations. In one of the cases, Prajwal is accused of raping a domestic help who worked in the Revanna household. After sex videos, including one where the domestic help was abused, were leaked to the public, Bhavani and her husband Revanna allegedly tried to hide the victim to save Prajwal from arrest.

We are expecting more statements from victims, some of whom have bravely decided to come forward. They are committed to putting the accused behind bars for good, and we are working with them with much sensitivity, revealed an SIT source.

Digital records and evidence have linked Bhavani to the conspiracy to silence the victims. Every attempt to mislead the investigation was made by her, said Varma, adding that she had joined hands with the other accused (Revanna) in furtherance of a criminal conspiracy hatched by all of them to abduct and silence the victim.

The investigation has revealed that the petitioner (Bhavani) was monitoring the victims in an attempt to cover up the allegations against her son, who is accused of being a serial rapist. She has been trying to protect him from prosecution for the sexual assaults committed by him, SPP Kumar told the court.

A special sessions court for elected representatives had on May 31 rejected Bhavanis anticipatory bail plea, finding a prima facie case that Bhavani had played a specific overt act in the kidnapping case. However, the Karnataka High Court granted her anticipatory bail with the condition that she should not enter Mysuru and Hassan districts, but the SIT can take her to those districts for the probe.

Bhavani, her husband and former minister HD Revanna, and seven others are being investigated by the SIT under Section 364A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which amounts to kidnapping.

Bhavanis counsel argued that the case filed against his client did not attract the non-bailable sections of kidnapping under the IPC and that arresting her amounted to political vengeance.

One of the prosecutions arguments was that Bhavani had not been cooperating with the investigating agencies, and, therefore, her bail plea must be cancelled. However, the court observed that she had answered all 85 questions posed by the SIT during their investigation and that the investigating agency cannot expect answers from her to the questions the way they framed, the court said.

The SIT also issued a notice to her on June 1 to be present at her Bengaluru home for questioning about her links to the kidnap case. When the SIT team arrived at her house, she was nowhere to be found. The SIT sent teams to search for Bhavani, who, as Karnataka Home Minister Dr G Parmeshwara stated, had been absconding and evading arrest. She later applied for anticipatory bail in the case, represented by her legal counsel.

Prajwal, a former MP from Hassan accused of sexually assaulting several women, was arrested on May 31 by a squad of police officers, including a special all-women team of the SIT, in a dramatic fashion. His father Revanna was arrested after a Special Court for Elected Representatives issued an arrest warrant based on the SITs application. He was arrested and jailed in the same kidnapping case and later released on May 14, having spent ten days behind bars.

Who is Bhavani Revanna?

Born to an agricultural family from Saligrama in Krishnarajanagara taluka of Mysore district, Bhavani married former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowdas son HD Revanna. They have two sons, Prajwal Revanna, the now-arrested former MP accused of sexually assaulting several women, and Suraj Revanna, an MLC.

Bhavani is said to have had considerable influence in the Deve Gowda family home in Hassan. Having watched politics closely with her father-in-law Deve Gowda, husband HD Revanna, and brother-in-law HD Kumaraswamy, she nursed aspirations for active politics. Her political ambitions intensified when her sister-in-law Anitha Kumaraswamy was given a JDS ticket from Madhugiri in 2008. She pressured her husband and senior Gowda to support her political ambitions, contested the Zilla Parishad elections in 2016, and won.

While she aspired to enter state politics, when Nikhil Kumaraswamy, her nephew and son of Kumaraswamy, was nominated by the party for the LS polls in 2019, an angry Bhavani demanded a seat each for her sons, Suraj and Prajwal. She ensured that her son Prajwal was launched by Deve Gowda from the former PMs traditional Lok Sabha seat of Hassan.

Prajwal won this seat in 2019 but lost in the recently concluded 2024 LS polls. Deve Gowda, who gave his Hassan Lok Sabha seat to Prajwal and decided to contest from Tumakuru in 2019, unfortunately lost the election but was later nominated from Karnataka to the Rajya Sabha.

Her family, especially the seniors, dissuaded her from contesting in the assembly elections, and she was seething each time. She ensured that her sons were given tickets, but every time she wanted to contest, she was pressured to stand back. She has held that grudge for a long time, but this case may have brought about a major pause in her aspirations for a political legacy or career, said a Hassan-based JDS leader who did not want to be named told News18.
The Maharashtra governments decision to reappoint advocate Ujjwal Nikam, who unsuccessfully contested the Lok Sabha polls as a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate, as public prosecutor has sparked a controversy, with the Opposition Congress saying the CM Eknath Shinde-led administration is setting a wrong precedent.

Objecting to Nikams appointment in the cases he was handling prior to his nomination from the Mumbai North-Central constituency, Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole said, Why has the state government chosen to appoint a BJP worker in the judicial process? The BJP-led government has set a wrong precedent by appointing a political party worker to the important post of public prosecutor.

Patole said the Shinde government should reconsider its decision to reappoint Nikam.

The BJP had dropped incumbent MP Poonam Mahajan and fielded Nikam from the seat. However, Varsha Gaikwad of the Congress defeated Nikam by a margin of 16,514 votes. Gaikwad secured 445,545 votes, while Nikam received 429,031 votes, making Gaikwad the sole Congress MP from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Following his nomination as the BJP candidate, Nikam had resigned from 29 cases, including eight in Mumbai, in which he had been appointed as a special prosecutor. He submitted his resignation to the law and judiciary department in May. After his defeat, the Shinde governments decision to reappoint Nikam means he will now represent the Maharashtra government in all 29 cases.

This development has raised concerns about the potential politicisation of the judicial process. Critics argued that appointing a recently defeated political candidate to a significant judicial role undermines the impartiality and independence expected of such positions. The Congress highlighted the fears that the move could erode public trust in the judicial system, as it is a blatant case of conflict of interest and a breach of ethical norms.

The move is likely to fuel further debates on the influence of political affiliations on judicial appointments in Maharashtra, pressuring the state to justify its decision.
Former Haryana Congress leaders Kiran Choudhry and her daughter Shruti Choudhry along with their supporters joined the BJP here on Wednesday, a move which comes ahead of assembly polls in the state due later this year.

Both Kiran Choudhry and Shruti Choudhry had resigned from the primary membership of the Congress on Tuesday, alleging the state unit of the party was being run as a personal fiefdom, in an apparent reference to former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda.

Kiran Choudhry is daughter-in-law of former Haryana chief minister Bansi Lal and a sitting MLA from Tosham in Bhiwani district. Shruti Choudhry was the working president of the Haryana unit of the Congress.

Addressing a joint press conference along with the BJP leaders after joining the party, Kiran Choudhry said, Now I am also painted in saffron colour. But this colour was also the colour of Choudhary Bansi Lal. We merged the Haryana Vikas Party into the Congress 20 years ago. Today, I call upon you to take the flag of the BJP in your hands, leaving the Congresss flag, and move forward till the last moment to ensure the BJPs landslide victory in Haryana assembly polls for a third consecutive term, she said in her message to her supporters who had gathered in large numbers to witness the joining ceremony.

From today, our work begins. Take the name of Choudhary Bansi Lal and start working on the BJPs policies, hail the BJPs top leadership, visit every nook and corner of Haryana. This will be our true tribute to Choudhary Bansi Lal and Choudhary Surendra Singh, she added.

The two joined the BJP in the presence of Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, party national general secretary Tarun Chugh, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and other senior leaders at the party headquarters here.

Kiran Choudhry said she joined the BJP as she was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modis work and noted that people of the country have given him mandate for the third consecutive term after seeing his work.

People have once again given him this responsibility to fulfil his resolve to make India a developed country by 2047, she said.

She assured the BJP leaders that she and her daughter Shruti will work like grassroot workers to strengthen the party in Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Delhi. We are ready, she added.

Kiran Choudhry also praised Khattar for his honesty and his work during his term as Haryana chief minister. Referring to him as her big brother, she said Khattar was a source of inspiration to her.

Shruti Choudhry said she joined the BJP inspired by the partys policy and historic decisions taken by Prime Minister Modi in his last ten years of government.

Welcoming them to the party fold, Chugh said the Bansi Lal family contributed to strengthening the foundation of the Congress in North India.

Its a very big family and a very big vote bank. They will be given due respect in the party, he told reporters.

Khattar also assured Kiran Choudhry and her daughter that they will get due respect in the party as per their ability and seniority and hoped that they will also fulfil the expectations of the party.

Saini said the BJP will be strengthened further with them joining the party. We will work together as BJP family to make Haryana stronger, he added.
In the run-up to the Lok Sabha Speaker election, leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is the single largest party in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) have reached out to the alliance partners for the post. Senior leaders from the BJP have dialled various allies to discuss the Speaker post with them. This also includes discussion with smaller allies in the BJP-led NDA.

Sources have told CNN-News18 that the NDA alliance partners have assured complete support to the candidate that the BJP decides to nominate for this post. Allies have been called to seek their suggestions for the candidate for the Speaker post. However, most of the allies have not given any preference or choice of a particular person, a source told CNN-News18.

It has been conveyed to the BJP top brass that the NDA will continue to be a cohesive unit under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and that it is his decision to decide on this post that will be binding and acceptable to all the alliance partners.

The BJP top brass has also conveyed to the alliance partners that they will be keen on giving the Deputy Speaker post to one of the alliance partners. However, the opposition is also likely to stake their claim for this post as the numbers are also with them to ask for this.

Some of the allies, which also include senior Parliamentarians have also requested the BJP to come up with a candidate for the Speaker post in which consensus can be obtained. 2014 and 2019 were different when BJP had absolute majority in Lok Sabha. But this time there will be a more buoyant and aggressive opposition supported by good numbers. Therefore, the Speaker post becomes even more important, a few alliance partners have conveyed to the government.

The special session of Parliament will get underway on June 24. Even though this session is primarily for the affirmation of oath for all the elected members of Parliament in the Lok Sabha. The third day, June 26 will see the election take place for the Soeaker. At present, Om Birla has been in the office of the Lok Sabha Speaker since the past five years.

But before the election of the Lok Sabha Speaker takes place, there is going to be the post of a Protem Speaker who will preside over the House for the first three days till the Speaker is elected. The general practice for giving this post has been to make the senior most member as the Protem Speaker.

Government sources have also told News18 that leaders will reach out to all political parties, including the opposition to elect the Speaker by consensus. The numbers are comfortable as far as the NDA candidate is concerned. Union Defence Minister and Deputy Leader of the Lok Sabha, Rajnath Singh, will reach out to all political parties to seek consensus.

Very recently, the newly appointed Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju met with the Leader Of opposition in Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.

On June 26, the process to elect the Lok Sabha Speaker will see Prime Minister Narendra Modi propose the name of the NDA candidate. This motion is expected to be seconded by senior minister Rajnath Singh. Similarly, the INDI alliance candidate for the Lok Sabha Speaker post will also be proposed. All our alliance partners will be proposers for the post of the Lok Sabha Speaker, a top source told News18

If the Opposition proposes another candidate for the Lok Sabha Speaker post, voting is expected to take place for the post. In case there is no Opposition candidate, then by the account of hands, the Lok Sabha Speaker will be elected.

After the election of the Lok Sabha Speaker on June 26, PM Narendra Modi is expected to introduce his Council of Ministers in the Lok Sabha. The following day, which is June 27, Rajya Sabha will also resume. President Droupadi Murmu will deliver the joint address to both houses of Parliament on June 27. After this, the discussion on the Motion of Thanks will begin in both Houses of Parliament. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to reply to this Motion of Thanks in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on Tuesday (July 2) and Wednesday (July 3) respectively.

July 3 is the last day for the special session of Parliament before Parliament reconvenes on July 22 again after a break. The Union Budget will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on July 22.
The reporter learned from the press conference held by the Information Office of Anhui Provincial People's Government on June 18 that the 2024 RCEP Local Governments and Friendship Cities Cooperation (Huangshan) Forum will be held from June 20 to 23 in Huangshan City and Hefei City. The forum is co-hosted by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the Anhui Provincial People's Government. It is understood that RCEP, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, is a free trade agreement formulated by 15 member countries, including China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and the ten ASEAN countries. This agreement primarily addresses the development of economic globalization and regional economic integration, aiming to eliminate internal trade barriers, create and improve a free investment environment, and expand trade in services. It is currently the world's largest free trade agreement in terms of population covered and economic and trade scale. The forum will focus on the theme of "Regional Partnership for Common Development." The opening ceremony and keynote speeches will be held in Tunxi District, Huangshan City, on the morning of June 21. In the afternoon, there will be the Conference on Cultural, Tourism, and Education Cooperation between Friendship Cities of RCEP Member Countries titled "Crossing Mountains and Seas, Vitality of Localities." On the morning of June 20, in Hefei City, there will be the Conference on the Development of New Energy Vehicle, Advanced Photovoltaic, and New Energy Storage Industry, as well as economic and trade inspection and docking activities. These events aim to enhance understanding, foster cooperation, and seek partnerships between local governments in Anhui and RCEP member countries, thereby cultivating new momentum for Anhui's high-level opening-up and creating new platforms for international cooperation. Additionally, with strong support from the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation of the Ministry of Commerce and China Economic Information Service, the Anhui Provincial Foreign Affairs Office has conducted joint research. During the forum, they will jointly release the "2024 RCEP Regional Cooperation Development Report," providing a macro analysis and evaluation of the progress made in the two years since the implementation of RCEP. The report will also offer a microanalysis and judgment based on a survey of Chinese enterprises, putting forward constructive opinions for the comprehensive and high-quality implementation of RCEP and enhancing regional cooperation momentum. The Provincial Foreign Affairs Office will also co-release the "'New Trio' Trade Vitality Index Report for RCEP" with China Economic Information Service. Furthermore, efforts will be made to facilitate the signing of economic, trade, cultural, and friendship city cooperation projects between Anhui Province and RCEP member countries at the forum. It is worth mentioning that the forum will also organize exhibitions of intangible cultural heritage and other cultural and tourism products. It will host the "2024 RCEP Huangshan Forum Night" and organize various forms of exchange activities such as "Northern Anhui Tour" and "Southern Anhui Tour" for economic, trade, and cultural inspections and project docking. These activities aim to enhance the friendship and understanding among the guests from various countries attending the forum, and provide a platform for Anhui Province to recommend key enterprises to RCEP partners and interact with domestic and international guests on-site. Additionally, according to the needs of key enterprises, the forum will coordinate and organize "one-on-one" exchange activities between enterprises and relevant government departments, as well as business associations and enterprises.

Source: anhuinews.com
Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday celebrated his 54th birthday at the party headquarters, cutting his cake holding national president Mallikarjun Kharges hand and sharing the first bite with him. His sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, party general secretary KC Venugopal and treasurer Ajay Maken were also present.

Happy Birthday to JanNayak  pic.twitter.com/noi0uzWIon Congress (@INCIndia) June 19, 2024

The Congress posted a video of the celebrations at the party office, where Gandhi also interacted with party workers who wished him on his birthday. The MP has instructed all workers to avoid any grand celebrations and, instead, celebrate this occasion by engaging in humanitarian efforts and charity. Honouring his wishes, Indian Youth Congress workers distributed air coolers to shelter home dwellers in Delhi.

In a post on X, the Congress said, Happy birthday to a leader who taught us to Choose Love. Choose love when hate is hurled at you. Choose love when kindness appears impossible. Choose love when the going gets tough. Choose love when compassion depletes.

One leader who stood against anger, hatred and tears. One leader who led from the front to reclaim our democracy. One leader who ushered in light and rekindled hope. Thank you for being you Rahul Gandhi ji, the party said, also sharing a number of videos calling Gandhi Jannayak.

About Rahul, Kharge said his qualities of unwavering commitment to the values espoused in the Constitution and his emphatic compassion for the millions of unheard voices set him apart. In a post on X earlier, he extended his birthday greetings.

Your unwavering commitment to the values espoused in the Constitution of India and your emphatic compassion for the millions of unheard voices, are the qualities which sets you apart, Kharge said.

He added: Congress partys ethos of unity in diversity, harmony and compassion, is visible in all your actions, as you continue in your mission to wipe off the tear from the last person standing, by showing the mirror of truth to power.

Kharge wished Rahul a long, healthy and happy life ahead. Responding to this post, the former Congress president said, Congress President Kharge ji, thank you very much for your kind wishes. Your leadership and guidance inspires us all to continue fighting for an equitable and just India.

He also thanked Congress leaders, workers and others for wishing him on his birthday.

Priyanka posted a heartfelt message for her brother on social media and said he was her friend, argumentative guide, philosopher and leader. Happy Birthday to my sweet brother whose unique perspective on life, the universe and everything lights up the path. Always my friend, my fellow traveller, argumentative guide, philosopher and leader. Keep shining (star emojis), love you the most! the Congress general secretary said.

Venugopal said on X, I join crores of Indians in wishing our beloved leader Sh. Rahul Gandhi ji a very happy birthday! Rahul ji is the undisputed leader of Indias poor, marginalised and backward citizens. The voice of the voiceless, the pillar of strength for the weak, the guardian of our Constitution, the quintessential Nyay Yoddha, and Indias brightest hope for a glorious future!

Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy also wished Gandhi and said his persona is to fight against all odds. His outlook is to stand by the underprivileged. Sacrifice is inheritance and fighting is his philosophy. He is sagacious and the only leader to fulfil Indias aspirations for tomorrow, Reddy said.

INDIA Bloc leaders extend birthday wishes

Birthday wishes from INDIA bloc leaders also poured in for the Congress leader. Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK chief MK Stalin hailed him on his birthday.

Happy Birthday, dear brother Rahul Gandhi! Your dedication to the people of our country will take you to great heights. Wishing you a year of continued progress and success, Stalin said on X.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and NCP (SCP) chief Sharad Pawar also wished Gandhi on his birthday. Warm Birthday Greetings Rahul Gandhi. Wishing you healthy, long and successful life ahead, Pawar said on X.

Pawars daughter and Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule wished Gandhi a healthy year ahead. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also wished Gandhi on his birthday.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said: Happiest returns of the day brother Rahul Gandhi! You have exhibited remarkable vision and leadership. Wishing you a long, happy, healthy and successful life ahead!

(With PTI inputs)
In a grim reminder of the Pune Porsche hit-and-run case, Madhuri, daughter of Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao (BMR), allegedly ran over a man sleeping on a footpath in Besant Nagar with her BMW in Chennai on Monday night. Surya, 24, a painter, succumbed to his injuries soon after.

Madhuri, who was allegedly accompanied by a female friend in the car, was arrested, but soon released on bail. Reports said Madhuri was allegedly drunk at the time of the incident.

ALSO READ | Chennai: Rajya Sabha MPs Daughter Driving BMW Mows Down Man Sleeping On Footpath, Gets Bail

In the Pune case, two 24-year-old techies from Madhya Pradesh died after the speeding car, allegedly driven by a 17-and-a-half-year-old boy in an inebriated state, hit their motorcycle at Punes Kalyani Nagar junction around 2:30 am on May 19.

Madhuris father BMR became a Rajya Sabha MP from the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) in 2022. He is currently a member of the committee on agriculture, animal husbandry and food processing and committee for the ministry of commerce and industry, states his company website. Madhuri is the director of the BMR Group.

Heres all you need to know about BMR, a sea food industry giant:

POLITICAL CAREER

BMR is a backward class leader from the Yadava community.

He joined the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in 1983 , becoming an MLA from Kavali in 2004 and 2009. He lost to YSRCP from Kavali in 2014. In 2019, he contested from Nellore Lok Sabha seat, but lost.

Rao joined Jagan Reddys YSRCP in December 2019.

WORTH Rs 243 CRORE

A B.Com from Sri Sarvodaya College Nellore, affiliated to Sri Venkaeshwara University, Andhra Pradesh in 1975-78, Rao is the founding chairman and managing director of BMR Group of Industries, a shrimp farming and exports company which has plants in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

Raos net worth is Rs 243 crore, with movable assets worth Rs 153 crore, and immovable assets at Rs 93 crore, according to his election affidavit.

According to the companys website, in 1998, Rao was awarded the Doctorate degree in Aquaculture by the International University of contemporary studies for his extraordinary contribution in the field of aquaculture.

His contribution in the introduction of SPF Vannamei in the country during 2004-2009, has earned him the title Father of Vannamei Farming in India", the website states.

In 2014, BMR Group of Industries was awarded the Best Hatchery award and also the largest supplier of shrimp seed in the country by MPEDA. In 2017, Rao was awarded the Indian of the Year" award in recognition of his achievements that have contributed towards building the reputation of our country, the website adds.
Google is launching a new feature called Listen to this page for Chrome users on Android devices. This will allow them to hear any web page in their preferred language and voice. The text-to-speech (TTS) feature, as reported by The Verge, includes playback controls similar to music or podcast players. Users can pause, adjust the reading speed, skip forward or backward by 10 seconds, and control playback settings.

Languages available in this Listen to this Page feature are Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, English, French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish, as per Google. Apart from that users can select from different voice types. As per 9To5Google, there are several options across US, UK, Indian and Australian English like Ruby (mid-pitch, warm), River (mid-pitch, bright), Field (low-pitch, bright) and Moss (low-pitch, peaceful).

Read Chrome Web Pages: How It Works

 Open a web page on Chrome with a lot of text.

 Click on the three-dot-menu on the Chrome App at the top right corner.

 You will find the Listen to this Page tab just below the Translate option.

 To exit the listening mode, users can simply click on Close.

The feature is not available for all web pages. If the website does not support this functionality, it will not appear in the three-dot menu.

According to The Verge, users can also use Google Assistant to read web pages out loud for them and translate them into other languages as well. However, selecting that option takes you out of Chrome and into the Google app, whereas using the new option keeps you in your browser.

Googles tech rival Apple also offers the same feature for iOS users in their Safari app, where users can listen to the web page in Siris voice. But unlike Safari, which forces users to exit the browser, Google's new feature allows users to stay in Chrome and enjoy a smooth browsing experience.

As per 9To5Google, the tech giant has been testing this new feature for a long time now and it will be available for all stable users soon.
Googles new Gemini AI chatbot is available for mobile users in the form of an app that can now be downloaded from the Play Store. Gemini made its debut at the Google I/O 2024 earlier this year and now people in India are officially getting access to the AI chatbot in the form of a mobile app. Google Assistant has been the de-facto help unit on Android phones for years but that could now be changed thanks to the introduction of Gemini.

Gemini AI App For Mobile In India: What Does It Offer

You can start the Gemini AI journey by downloading the Gemini app from the Play Store. It is already available for Android users in the country and we could independently verify its listing. However, iPhone users need to wait for a few weeks when the Google app will get Gemini access with a new update.

Gemini AI mobile app is powered by the Gemini Advanced AI model that brings a host of new features to smartphone users in India. You can access information, ability to chat with Gemini in the Google Messages app or use it to upload files. The app allows you to type, talk, or even add an image to get the assistance you need. Take a picture of a flat tire for instructions on how to change it, or get help writing that perfect thank you note  the possibilities are endless, Google pointed out in a post here on Tuesday.

Google realises the scope to tap millions of Android smartphone users in the country and giving them Gemini on the devices is a sure-shot recipe to train the AI model with their data which it claims is being done on the device.

Gemini AI uses the power of Gemini 1.5 Pro which is available in nine Indian languages: Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. The company says having this capability gets you answers and summary for documents with up to 1,500 pages or 100 emails that can be uploaded to get the AI to do the heavy loading for you.

Gemini AI On Mobile: How To Use The AI Chatbot

Google has not mentioned that you need a specific kind of device (i.e. Pixel) to use the Gemini app which means most of the latest smartphones should be supported by the AI chatbot. You can follow these steps to use Gemini on your phone:

 Download the Gemini app from Google Play Store

 Open the app and give it access to your device

 Select Gemini as the default voice assistant for your phone

 Google Assistant will now be replaced with Gemini on the device

 Use the wake word Hey Google to activate Gemini on the phones screen

You can set alarm or work reminders using voice on Gemini with more features to be added soon. Google also mentions that some of the Assistant features are not supported by Gemini which should happen in the near future. Thats not all, Gemini is coming to the Google Messages app as well, helping you draft messages, or even plan events. You need an Android phone with 6GB RAM or higher to use AI in the Messages app.
Smart home devices have gained prominence in millions of homes across the globe but the privacy concerns around these apps fail to die. And new reports claim that by 2028 more than 780 million people will have adopted these smart home platforms which brings their privacy into question once again. The biggest culprits of spying on your data are some of the biggest names in the industry.

Smart Home Apps Spying On You

The report from Surfshark shares the worrying details and ranks the likes of Google and Amazon at the top of the data-hungry charts. The details of the test have also been shared by the company which is known for its VPN services.

The platform tested around 290 applications that were used by connected to over 400 smart home devices from different manufacturers which includes security cameras to smart vacuum cleaners. After going through the process, they observed that Amazons Alex was the biggest defaulter when it comes to sourcing data through these devices by collecting 28 out of the possible 32 data points. The data collected by Alexa range from location, details of the person/owner, and even details about their health.

The second on the list is Google with its Assistant. It has been found to gather 22 points out of the possible 32 data points. The main concern with Googles linkage is that all your data can be linked back to individuals which leaves them vulnerable to future attacks.

When you see the names of Amazon and Google on the list, you start to wonder about their possible AI ambitions and how it could be intertwined with all your data. AI training involves a dataset that would most likely be sourced from the users, even if the companies say otherwise.

People already know the perils of using these smart home devices at home, and even allowing them to listen to all the conversations. If you are really keen on adopting the ecosystem, it is better to be safe and cautious about what and how your data is accessed or collected.
A bride collapsed and died while dancing during her wedding festivities in Nainital. Shreya Jain, a resident of Delhi, was to marry a man based in Lucknow. They decided to host a destination wedding, and their families gathered at a resort in Nainital. However, during the mehndi ceremony, the 28-year-old collapsed and died from a heart attack while dancing.

According to The Times Of India, the tragedy occurred on Saturday evening when Shreya was dancing on stage and suddenly collapsed unconscious. Her family immediately arranged for medical attention. But a Republic report stated that doctors at the hospital attempted to revive her for nearly an hour-and-a-half but later she was pronounced dead.

The brides father, Dr. Sanjay Jain, is a paediatrician, who owns Shreya Specialist Polyclinic in Dwarka, Delhi. The grieving father told the Times of India, My daughter had completed her MBA after BTech and was very happy about her wedding. The groom works in an IT company in Lucknow.

Further, according to Bhimtal SHO Inspector Jagdeep Negi, the brides father had hired the luxury Parichay Resort of the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) for his daughters destination wedding.

The SHO told the publication, The marriage was planned for Sunday, and the mehndi ceremony was happening on Saturday evening when she collapsed while dancing. Doctors at Bhimtal Community Health Centre confirmed that she had possibly succumbed to cardiopulmonary complications.

He added that the family of the deceased wanted no further legal action and had her cremated. Her last rites were held in Kathgodam before the family returned to Delhi.

A similar incident occurred last year when a bride in Gujarats Bhavnagar died of a heart attack while performing wedding rituals. Reportedly, the tragedy occurred in front of the Bhagwaneshwar Mahadev Temple in Bhavnagar. Hetal, the bride, apparently felt uneasy and fainted during her wedding.

Her family hurried to take her to a local hospital, but doctors informed them that she had died from a heart attack. What came as a surprise was that even as the family mourned for their daughter, relatives gathered for the wedding and suggested getting the brides younger sister married to the groom. After the last rites, the family has agreed to the same as well.
The main draw to Norway is its breathtaking natural beauty. Whether its the Aurora Borealis or vast fjords, the country is any travellers dream. These natural attractions are, to say the least, quite popular. While valleys, rivers, and mountains are common tourist pullers, a boulder in Norway has become the centre of attraction thanks to its unique placement. Trapped between two giant rocks, the boulder is placed above a deep abyss.

Kjerag, also known as the Majesty of the Lysefjord, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Norway because, despite its stunning appearance, it is rather simple to reach on foot without the need for special equipment.

An Instagram video shows individuals leaping on the boulder, with some crawling on it and others jumping on it. The boulder is suspended in midair between two hilltops and people just cant get enough of it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tripio (@tripioapp)

The video has more than 7 million views on the social media platform and the users are having a virtual panic attack (not really) after watching this.

A user commented, Im having a panic attack from my couch.

Another user declared, Couldnt pay me millions to do that. Do people not cherish life?

A third user said, I already fell just by watching from my screen.

Watching this gave me so much anxiety, I had to lay on my flat floor just now, read another comment.

Meanwhile, a user humorously noted, Knowing my luck, the rock will fall with me.

Many users in the comments section were enquiring about the death rate on this boulder.

The boulder, known as Kjerag Bolt or Kjeragbolten, is thought to have become wedged between the two stone faces at some point around the last ice age, about 50,000 B.C.

According to Go Fjords, the boulder is confined over a 984-meter-deep chasm (3,228 ft.). The rock is a 5-cubic-meter glacial deposit jammed in the mountains crevice.

Even though the rock is perched over a 984-meter chasm, those who enjoy pushing their boundaries and taking breathtaking pictures dont let that stop them.

Due to Kjeragboltens immense popularity, there is often a large queue of visitors waiting patiently to take a picture with the boulder or participate in BASE jumping during the busiest travel season.
The UK recently declared a heatwave as temperatures reached over 26 degrees Celsius. The harsh weather conditions took its toll on many, including a Royal Guard at the Order of the Garter event at Windsor Castle in England. A video shared on X (formerly X) captured moments when the guard tripped due to heat, almost losing his control during the event, also attended by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Struggling to stand in the Sun wearing a full uniform, the guard began going backwards and forward. Fortunately, fellow guards intervened just in time to prevent any mishap. The video shows the soldier being escorted away for treatment. This incident is the third case of a royal guard fainting due to the extreme heat in a week.

Reacting to a video of the incident, a user wrote, They dont have enough to eat beforehand then with prolonged standing in heavy hot clothes, the blood pressure lowers. He probably really tried to keep it together hence the rocking, hope he was ok and no penance for this.

Another shared, Im so glad they never let him fall and left him lying there like previous times. Glad they were looking out for him.

I feel so sorry for these guys they should be allowed lighter uniforms for summertime and water bottles, a comment read.

Criticising the ceremony, another person wrote, Time to get rid of the nonsense royal protocols is 2024 for Gods sake. Why do they force them in the first place to stand up like that? Whats the benefit?

An insider told Daily Mail, Healthy people may faint when standing still for a long time (most common in soldiers, a phenomenon called parade ground syncope) because the leg muscles have to be active to help return blood to the heart. The nature of military duties, physical exercise, exposure to heat and standing for prolonged periods of time (orthostatic stress) is known to trigger fainting.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13541559/Moment-soldier-fainted-ancient-Order-Garter-ceremony-Windsor-Castle-three-collapsed.html#:~:text=Three%20soldiers%20collapsed%20during%20yesterdays,to%20stop%20him%20toppling%20over.

The Insider explained that military duties like exercise, heat exposure and standing for long periods can lead to fainting. Similar challenges are also faced during deployments. Commanders at all levels must complete mandatory Hear Illness Prevention Awareness Training.

The Order of the Garter, founded by King Edward III in 1348, celebrates individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to society.
Social media is the stock house of many humorous clips where people knowingly or unknowingly indulge in antics to entertain the audience or become popular. One such video has surfaced on Instagram in which a lady is standing on a beach. She then lights a firecracker or a rocket kept under a utensil and then rushes back.

For a few seconds, there is no reaction and the woman goes near it to know the reason. The moment she steps in near the bowl, the cracker shoots up with immense force, thus throwing the utensil at the womans face. The utensils impact was so powerful that the lady collapsed on the sand, writhing in pain. As the video concludes, she can be seen crying, holding her injured chin due to the utensils pressure. The videos location is not known yet. The video has garnered over 30 million views.

This clip received a heavy backlash from users who wrote that it was a fake video from a wannabe influencer and if the lady should try some other profession. One of the users also pointed out that it is not funny and the lady could have faced fractures on her face. Another called it the greatest stupidity on social media and mentioned that these clips can prompt other users to come up with the same self-harming pranks.

In a similar incident, a Tustin, California-based woman named Lana Clay-Monaghan, 35 was injured in a social media prank. Someone had covered her head with a bucket for a prank which led to Lanas vision and hearing getting obstructed. She lost consciousness and fell on the floor. The Tustin woman said she was taken to a hospital where she was told she suffered an acute heart issue that caused her to pass out. She was released later that day and filed a police report.

In a statement, Tustin police said four male juveniles were seen grabbing a bucket they put over Clay-Monaghans head. Several seconds later the juveniles are seen fleeing the store, the statement read. A spokesperson for the department said that the individuals have not been identified.
YouTuber Juan Carlos Gonzalez, known for his channel That Was Epic, is capturing hearts with his latest act of kindness. After giving away Apple products, money and other lavish items to strangers, Gonzalez, in his latest video, distributed expensive Rolex watches to strangers after asking them for the time. The surprise and disbelief on the peoples faces are priceless as they realise theyve just been gifted an authentic Rolex by a random person.

The video begins with the host approaching a man and asking the time. After the man tells him, Gonzalez pretends to be relieved that he still has plenty of time to relax. In an unexpected turn of events, he presents him a brand new watch, worth $15,000 (approximately Rs 12 Lakh) as a token of appreciation.

The video then cuts to Gonzalez meeting his friend, the CEO of TimePiece Trading in Miami, USA. He reveals that his friend gifted him 13 watches to give away on the streets to people. Without wasting any time, Gonzalez and the CEO head out to surprise strangers with Rolex watches, while a few receive Omega watches.

Interestingly, Gonzalez doesnt just ask for the time, he also gifts watches to those not wearing one. Later in the video, Gonzalez continues spreading kindness throughout Miami by giving away money to people in need and brightening their day with his unexpected gifts.

Social media users cant stop praising Juan Carlos Gonzalezs efforts to make strangers happy with such expensive gifts. His kindness touched many hearts.

A user wrote, Bro went from giving $100 to a damn Rolex."

Another shared, Juan 2026: asking people to use their bathrooms and then buying them a house."

The first guys energy man, okay but a Rolex is WILD," a comment read.

Another wrote, Giving away Rolexs is NEXT LEVEL."

An individual shared, Bro this man is a blessing! We need more people like Juan in the world!!! God bless you, Juan."

One more added, This guy definitely deserves the world to subscribe to him."

Since the video was shared on That Was Epics YouTube channel, it has gone viral and garnered over 4 lakh views.
The Hinduja billionaire family faces allegations of mistreating household staff at their Lake Geneva villa. The super-rich family has been accused of passport confiscation of the staff and paying a mere $8 for 15-18 hours of work.

Four members of the family are now facing a human trafficking trial, which began on Monday. According to Bloomberg, which first reported the development, three plaintiffs dropped the civil suit against the family days after they reached the deal.

The trial centres on accusations that the billionaire family seized their staffs passports and restricted them from leaving the residence without permission. According to Bloomberg, the staff were paid in India, leaving them without Swiss currency during their time in the country.

A prosecutor accused the Hindujas of spending more on their pet dog than they paid one member of the staff, the report said.

Prosecutor Yves Bertossa informed the court that according to a budget document named Pets, a female staff member was compensated as little as 7 Swiss francs ($7.84) for a workday that extended from 15 to 18 hours, seven days a week. He highlighted that this amount was less than what the family spent on their pet dog in a year, which totaled 8,584 Swiss francs.

Prosecutors are seeking lengthy sentences for four family membersPrakash Hinduja, his wife Kamal, their son Ajay and his wife Namrata.

Yves Bertossa also demanded that the family pay 1 million Swiss francs in court costs and contribute 3.5 million francs to a compensation fund for the staff.

The Hindujas lawyer has denied the allegations, stating that the family was not responsible for hiring or overseeing the daily management of the staff.

In a statement to Forbes, Romain Jordan, the attorney representing the Hindujas, criticised the prosecutors and alleged that there was bias against the billionaire family.

No other family would have been treated in this way. Our clients remain determined to defend themselves and have confidence in the judicial system, Jordan was quoted as saying by news outlet Forbes.

The salary cant simply be reduced to what they were paid in cash given their board and lodgings were covered, another family lawyer, Yael Hayat, was quoted as saying by Bloomberg while dismissing claims of an 18-hour work-day, calling them an exaggeration.

The Hinduja family, based in London, is among the worlds wealthiest and are also ranked among Indias richest. They control the multinational conglomerate the Hinduja group.
A woman got swept out to sea while her boyfriend frantically tried but failed to save her in Russias seaside resort city of Sochi on Sunday. The video of the incident, which is now going viral on social media, showed the couple walking on the beach holding hands and enjoying themselves.

But a large wave knocked them off their feet. The man emerges moments later but the woman is not seen anymore. The man was seen frantically looking for his partner but to no avail.

Woman gets swept out to sea as her boyfriend frantically tries to help save her in Sochi, Russia.Devastating. The incident reportedly happened while the couple was visiting from the Russian city of Lipetsk. The couple could be seen going to the water's edge when massive waves pic.twitter.com/zEaFXoDjkg  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) June 18, 2024

A report by journalist Colin Rugg on X said that the couple were from the Russian city of Lipetsk. The woman is said to have been 20 years old.

The search has not returned any results at this time. The work continues, the Southern Regional Search and Rescue Brigade said. The rescue agency said they have expanded their search from Riviera beach to the Mamayka microdistrict and have been searching for three days.

In a separate incident from earlier this month, four Indian students drowned in a river near St Petersburg. The medical students drowned when they entered a fast-flowing river.

Four students from Maharashtra  Harshal Anantrao Desale, Jishan Ashpak Pinjari, Jia Firoj Pinjari and Malik Gulamgous Mohammad Yakub  drowned in the Volkhov River.

They were studying at the Novgorod State University in Veliky Novgorod city.

A fifth student, Nisha Bhupesh Sonawane, was rescued.
An Indian farm labourer working in Italy died on Wednesday after being abandoned by the roadside following an accident that severed his arm. He was working without legal papers and was cutting hay when his arm was sliced off by a machine, the Flai CGIL trade union said.

The farm worker was identified as Satnam Singh, aged 30 or 31, was injured on June 17 while working on a farm in Latina  a rural area south of Rome that is home to tens of thousands of Indian migrant workers.

Instead of being helped by his employers he was dumped like a bag of rubbish near his home, the trade union said, likening the situation to a horror film.

Police said they had been called by Singhs wife and friends, and an air ambulance was sent. He was flown to a hospital in Rome but he died (today) around midday, police told AFP.

Labour minister Marina Calderone condemned this act of barbarity while addressing parliament. The Indian agricultural worker who suffered a serious accident in the countryside of Latina and was abandoned in very serious conditions has died, she told parliament.

It was a true act of barbarity, she said, adding that authorities were investigating, and expressing hope that those who were responsible would be punished.

The centre-left Democratic Party condemned the mans treatment, in an area known for the exploitation of workers, as a defeat for civilisation. The fight against gangmasters and for dignified and human living and working conditions must continue to be our priority, it said on X.
The Indian Consulate General in Canadas Vancouver has organised a memorial service for the victims of the 1985 Air India flight 182 (Kanishka) bombing. On June 23, 1985, the Air India flight from Canada to India via London, exploded off the Irish coast, killing all 329 people, including 86 children, on board.

The memorial service in Vancouver has been scheduled for June 23, 2024 at 6:30 PM at the Air India Memorial at Stanley Parks Ceperley Playground area.

India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. 23 June 2024 marks the 39th Anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation, the Indian Consulate General posted on X (previously Twitter).

India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. (1/3) India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) June 18, 2024

The consulate general has appealed to the members of the Indian diaspora in Vancouver to join the event in a show of solidarity against terrorism.

What Happened on June 23, 1985?

The Air India Flight 182 (Kanishka) exploded while on its way from Canada to India after a bomb in a suitcase on the flight went off. The suitcase made its way to the flight even as the ticket holder it belonged to did not board the flight.

The victims on the deadly bombing included 24 Indians while the 268 Canadian victims were also mostly of Indian origin.

What Role Did Justin Trudeaus Father Play Post The Bombing?

Candian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus father Pierre Elliott Trudeau is known to have started the bitterness in India-Canada ties. He had refused to extradite Talwinder Singh Parmar, who was said to be the mastermind behind the Kanishka bombing.

Sikh terrorist Parmar had fled to Canada after killing two police personnel in Punjab in 1981.

Reports say that warnings about a possible attack on an Air India flight send by India to Canada were also ignored by Trudeau. Indias intelligence agencies had reportedly sent a message to the Canadian authorities on June 1, 1985, seeking security measures against a possible airplane attack by Khalistani terrorists. This was followed by the deadly bombing of June 23, 1985.

Everyone arrested for the Kanishka bombing, including Talwinder Singh Parmar, were let off and only one person, Inderjit Singh Reyat, was given a prison term of 15 years after he was convicted.
Former US president Barack Obama disclosed that his daughters have been discouraged from pursuing careers in politics by their mother and former US First Lady, Michelle Obama.

Barack and Michelle Obama have two daughters Malia, 25, and Sasha, 22. Speaking at the star-studded fundraising event in Los Angeles along with US President Joe Biden, Obama answered questions from the press which sought to know if they would ever see Malia and Sasha following in their fathers footsteps.

That is a question I do not need to answer because Michelle drilled into them so early that you would be crazy to go into politics. It will never happen, 62-year-old Obama responded.

Joe Biden, who was by his side, added that they are both powerful young women.

Following their mothers advice, both of the former presidents daughters have chosen paths outside of politics.

Malia made headlines with her red carpet debut at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where she showcased her short film The Heart. It should be noted that she opted to use Malia Ann rather than Obama in the credits.

She is the writer and the director of the 18-minute short film that premiered at the festival in January in Utah.

Sasha, who has also steered clear of politics, graduated from the University of Southern California in May with a degree in sociology.

The former first lady herself has also swatted aside rumours that claimed that she may run for the Oval Office in the past few months.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama has expressed several times over the years, she will not be running for president. Mrs Obama supports President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris re-election campaign, her communications officer said earlier this year.

Hollywood stars joined Obama for the gala evening that Bidens campaign says has already raised $28 million.

The event was attended by actors Julia Roberts and George Clooney, as well as singing icon Barbra Streisand.

Its the largest Democratic fundraiser ever, Clooney said.

Obama answered the questions when he took the stage with Biden, his former vice president, for a conversation moderated by late-night US comic Jimmy Kimmel.
The Kuwaiti government will provide $15,000 (approximately Rs 12.50 lakh) in compensation to the families of the victims of a tragic fire at a building housing migrant workers, local news media outlets reported. The blaze led to 50 fatalities, including 46 Indians.

The fire broke out at the seven-storey building in Mangaf in the southern part of Kuwaiti capital, Kuwait City, on June 12. The reason for the fire was a short circuit in the guards room on the ground floor. The building was housing 196 migrant workers, most of whom were Indians.

Locals news media outlets said that the compensation will be distributed through embassies of the nations to which the deceased belonged and said that embassies will ensure that it reaches the desired recipients.

The families of each victim in the Mangaf building fire will receive compensation of $15,000. The compensation will be distributed through the embassies of the deceased. The embassies will then ensure the funds reach the families, Kuwaiti news media outlets reported.

Kuwaiti authorities on Thursday detained three people for suspected manslaughter over the building fire.

One Kuwaiti and two foreign residents have been detained on suspicion of manslaughter through negligence of security procedures and fire regulations, the public prosecution service said.

Three Filipinos were also among the dead, the Philippine government said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also promised help for those affected by the gruesome fire tragedy, and announced a Rs 200,000-ex-gratia ($2,400) payments to next of kin.

Indias junior foreign minister Kirti Vardhan Singh flew in to help survivors and organise the repatriation of remains on an Indian air force plane.

The blaze was one of the worst seen in Kuwait, which borders Iraq and Saudi Arabia and sits on about seven percent of the worlds known oil reserves.

Interior Minister Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef last week vowed to address labour overcrowding and neglect, and threatened to close any buildings that flout safety rules.
French authorities said they have charged two teenagers with the gang rape of a 12-year-old Jewish girl in a Paris suburb in an attack suspected to have been motivated by anti-Semitism.

The violence has sent shockwaves through the Jewish community and added to tensions in the run-up to a snap election that could bring the far-right National Rally to power for the first time.

The girl told police she was approached by three boys aged between 12 and 13 while she was in a park near her home with a friend and dragged into a shed on Saturday evening in the northwestern suburb of Courbevoie.

The suspects beat her and forced her to have anal and vaginal penetration, fellatio, while uttering death threats and anti-Semitic remarks, a police source told AFP.

Her friend managed to identify two of the attackers.

The three boys were arrested on Monday.

On Tuesday evening, two of them both aged 13 were charged with gang rape, anti-Semitic insults and violence and issuing death threats. The pair were taken into custody.

The third boy, 12, was also charged with anti-Semitic insults and violence and issuing death threats, but not with rape. He was allowed to return home after being charged.

Abject act

The leaders of Frances Jewish community  the largest of any country outside Israel and the United States  expressed horror over the attack.

France, which is home to Europes largest Muslim community, experienced a surge in anti-Semitic acts since Hamass October 7 attack on southern Israel and the start of Israels retaliatory campaign in Gaza.

Frances chief rabbi Haim Korsia wrote on X that he was horrified and that no-one should be excused in the face of this unprecedented wave of anti-Semitism.

Courbevoies centre-right mayor Jacques Kossowski condemned what he called an abject act and called for the perpetrators to be met with the full force of the law whatever their age.

Anti-Semitic acts in France increased three-fold in the first months of 2024, compared to the same period a year ago, official figures show.

Of the 1,676 anti-Semitic acts recorded in 2023, 12.7 percent took place in schools.
Members of an environmental group sprayed the Stonehenge, a prehistoric UNESCO world heritage site in the UK, with orange colour during a climate protest on Wednesday. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called the group, Just Stop Oil, a disgrace while two people were arrested after the act.

:Eco activists DESECRATE 5,000 year old Stonehenge, spraying it with orange substance. Activists from the Just Stop Oil group targeted the prehistoric megalithic structure to demand the UK ends the use of fossil fuels by 2030. pic.twitter.com/1mEuFK0fEY  Oli London (@OliLondonTV) June 19, 2024

Just Stop Oil are a disgrace. Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) June 19, 2024

Just Stop Oil activists desecrated the megalithic structure to demand that the next government in Britain should put an end to the use of fossil fuels by 2030. Footage posted on social media showed the activists, wearing Just Stop Oil branded T-shirts, spraying a cluster of the standing stones with the orange substance from a small canister.

Niamh Lynch, 21, from Oxford University, was one of the two persons arrested for spraying the Stonehenge. He was accompanied by a 73-year-old Indian-origin activist named Rajan Naidu. Rajan, from Birmingham, said the orange cornflour used in the protest against the use of fossil fuels was to create an eye-catching spectacle that will soon wash away with the rain.

Naimh, 21, a student at the University of Oxford, is one of the people arrested for taking action at Stonehenge today.Stonehenge at solstice is all about celebrating the natural world  but look at the state its in! We all have a right to live a life free from pic.twitter.com/f0NeQlFalk  Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) June 19, 2024

The group said it used orange cornflour for the stunt and claimed the substance would soon wash away with the rain. The video also shows several people trying to restrain the activists as they spray the stones, before they stop and sit on the ground.

English Heritage, the public body that manages the site, said its experts were probing the extent of the damage to the circle of stones some of which are believed to date back 5,000 years. Wiltshire Police said in a statement that it has arrested two people following the incident. Officers attended the scene and arrested two people on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument, they said. Our inquiries are ongoing and we are working closely with English Heritage.

A spokesperson for English Heritage called the protest extremely upsetting but noted the site remained open to the public. Our curators are investigating the extent of the damage, she said. The protest was staged a day before the Summer Solstice festival, when crowds gather at Stonehenge to celebrate the northern hemispheres summer solstice.

What did the politicians say?

This incident comes ahead of a general election on July 4 and drew condemnation from the leaders of the UKs main political parties. Sunak called it a disgraceful act of vandalism to one of the UKs and the worlds oldest and most important monuments. Just Stop Oil should be ashamed of their activists, he added.

Labour leader Keir Starmer, who polls predict will be the next PM, said it was outrageous and branded Just Stop Oil pathetic. Those responsible must face the full force of the law, he said, in a sentiment echoed by Ed Davey, leader of the centrist Liberal Democrats.

What is Just Stop Oil?

The climate activism group was formed in 2022 and wants an end to new oil and gas exploration in the North Sea off the UKs east coast. It has staged numerous protests, primarily aimed at disrupting events, institutions or aspects of daily life, leading to thousands of its activists being arrested and scores jailed.

A spokesperson said although the Labour party, which is expected to win next months election, has vowed not to issue any new oil and gas drilling licences, we all know this is not enough. We have to come together to defend humanity or we risk everything. Thats why Just Stop Oil is demanding that our next government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030, the spokesperson added.

(With AFP inputs)
The SS United States, a historic ship that still holds the transatlantic speed record it set more than 70 years ago, must leave its berth on the Delaware River in Philadelphia by Sept. 12, a federal judge says. The decision issued Friday by US District Judge Anita Brody culminated a years-old rent dispute between the conservancy that oversees the 1,000-foot ocean liner and its landlord, Penn Warehousing, the AP reports. It stemmed from an August 2021 decision by Penn Warehousing to double the ship's daily dockage to $1,700, an increase the conservancy refused to accept.

When the conservancy continued to pay its previous rate, set in 2011, Penn Warehousing terminated the lease in March 2022. After much legal wrangling, Brody held a bench trial in January but also encouraged the two sides to reach a settlement instead of leaving it up to her.
Authorities in Katy, Texas, are searching for the parents of a premature baby girl found along a walking trail on Saturday. A couple strolling with their 3-year-old daughter and dogs came upon the newborn on a bridge on the Plantation Lakes walking trail around 9am local time that day. "I noticed two little feet moving ... and I yelled to my husband, I'm like, 'Oh my god, a baby, a baby,'" Daniela Fedele tells KHOU. Wrapped in a towel, the infant with placenta still attached to her body was likely "freshly born" that morning, said Sgt. Juan Garcia of the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Deputies responded and the child was taken to a hospital, where she's listed in stable condition. Once she's cleared by a doctor, the newborn is likely to end up in foster care, Garcia said, per USA Today.
Five years ago, Anna Lee Dozier was browsing the shelves of the 2A Thrift Store in Clinton, Maryland, when she stumbled upon an interesting find in the clearance section. "It looked old-ish, but I thought maybe 20, 30 years old and some kind of tourist reproduction thing, so I brought it home," she tells WUSA9 of the decorated but faded vase she picked up for $3.99 (check out a photo here ). The vessel sat in Dozier's home until this past January, when she spotted something that caught her attention while on a business trip to Mexico. There, while visiting the Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, Dozier spied artifacts that bore a striking resemblance to her vase back home.

She returned to Maryland and sent photos and dimensions of her purchase to the US Embassy, as museum staff had advised her to do. It turns out her vase was actually a priceless ceremonial urn used by the Mayan people, dating back to sometime between AD200 and AD800. Dozier kind of freaked out when she found out, noting she then wanted it "out of my home, because I have three little boys and I ... was petrified that after 2,000 years, I would be the one to wreck it." On Monday, Dozier, a human rights advocate, turned the vase back over to its native land in a ceremony in which she noted, "Human rights extend to culture and history."

"She recognized that a whole country, a whole culture cares about it, and we are deeply in gratitude (to) her," Mexican Ambassador Esteban Moctezuma Barragan said. The vase will be shipped to Mexico's Museum of Anthropology, where it will be examined further, then sent to be displayed in one of the nation's museums. UPI notes that a similar situation played out last year in Virginia, when another vase scooped up at a Goodwill outlet for $3.99 was found to have been designed by the late Carlo Scarpa for Italian company Venini. That vase was auctioned off for nearly $110,000. (More discoveries stories.)
If Gavin Newsom has his way, smartphones will soon be banned from public schools in his state. The California governor on Tuesday called for such a ban to be instituted by the end of the current legislative session in August, Politico reports. "As the Surgeon General affirmed, social media is harming the mental health of our youth," Newsom said in a statement, per KTLA. He says he plans to work with state lawmakers to "restrict the use of smartphones during the school day. When children and teens are in school, they should be focused on their studiesnot their screens." Newsom cited his 2019 law allowing school districts to ban cellphones. His wife has previously spoken out about the cyberbullying suffered by one of their four school-age children.
Six years before the murders of Alex Murdaugh's wife and the younger of their two sonsmurders of which Murdaugh himself was ultimately convicteda 19-year-old was found dead on a remote road not far from the Murdaugh family's South Carolina estate, reportedly the victim of a hit-and-run accident. The teen, Stephen Smith , was a former classmate of Murdaugh's older son, Buster, and in the wake of the double Murdaugh family murder, his death has been getting renewed attention. Now, Buster Murdaugh is suing Netflix and a number of other companies and media outlets for defamation, claiming they have falsely implicated him in Smith's death, People reports.

Buster Murdaugh says he was defamed in the Netflix streaming series Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal, and his lawsuit notes that during a reenactment of Smith's death in the series, "a young man with red hair carrying a baseball bat" is shown. Buster Murdaugh "has red hair, and it is readily ascertainable from the content of the series that the creators were depicting the Plaintiff as the murderer of Stephen Smith," the suit says, per NBC News. Other documentaries and the companies behind them were also named in the suit. Smith's death is being investigated as a homicide after the case was reopened in 2021. (More Stephen Smith stories.)
Pro-Palestinian protests over the Israel-Hamas war that have proliferated on college campuses have now made their way into the national parks. SFGate reports that four climbers stopped partway up Yosemite's El Capitan on Mondaynot to rest, but to unfurl a 25-by-15-foot banner in the colors of the Palestinian flag that read "Stop the Genocide" (check out a photo here ). The outlet notes that the group from the grassroot Climbers With Palestine stayed with the banner overnight into Tuesday to ensure no one would be imperiled by it, then started making their way down that afternoon.

Climbing Magazine IDs the four mountaineers as Miranda Oakley, Alix Morris, Alexa Flower, and Henry Whittaker. They erected the banner about halfway up the 3,000-foot-long "Nose" route of El Capitan. "Martin Luther nailed his theses on the church door," Climbers With Palestine co-founder Emily Weinstein tells SFGATE. "We nailed our message to the most iconic bulletin board for the world's rock climbers." Weinstein, who's Jewish, established the California-based group with Oakley, a Palestinian American climbing guide, to support "equal rights in Palestine/Israel and around the world," per a recent Instagram post.

Weinstein notes that Yosemite does bar advertising, but she doesn't think that's what her group is guilty of. "This is not an advertisement," she tells SFGATE. "This is exercising our rights for freedom of speech as Americans." Morris tells Climbing that the group had debated which message to put on the banner, and that ultimately "we chose this wording because it's unmistakable what we're trying to say. It's powerful. It's simple. It's poignant. We need to stop killing people, today." It's not clear if the group will face any repercussions from the park, which hadn't received advance notice of their protest. (More El Capitan stories.)
An Alaska man and two police officers rescued a baby moose from what police described as "a sure demise" after it fell into a lake and got stuck in a narrow space between a floatplane and a dock, the AP reports. Spencer Warren, who works for the outdoor tourism company Destination Alaska Adventure Co., had arrived at work about 6:30am Friday to prepare a floatplane for the day's trip when he heard what he thought was an odd-sounding bird. He quickly spotted the moose calf stuck between the floats of the plane and the dock at Beluga Lake in Homer, a Kenai Peninsula community about 220 miles south of Anchorage.

He immediately thought, "Oh, man, where is mama? I know she's nearby," before spotting the worried mother about 4 feet away with another calf. Mother moose can be dangerously protective of their calvesa photographer was killed by one protecting her young just last month in Homer. The baby moose tried to get out of the lake, but couldn't get its footing on the top of the metal float with its hooves. Its wary mother was keeping Warren, the would-be rescuer, from getting too close as it struggled. Warren checked in with his boss, who called Homer police.

One officer eventually positioned his police cruiser between the mama moose and the floatplane to allow another officer and Warren to rescue the calf, Homer Police Lt. Ryan Browning told the AP. The calf had one leg outstretched across the top of the plane's float, where it was stuck. "You know, kind of thankfully, he wasn't moving so that it made the rescue a little bit easier," Warren said. "We just lifted him straight out and put him on the dock there." The exhausted calf splayed out on the boardwalk until an officer helped it stand. The calf reunited with its mother and she licked the water off its bodyall of it caught on camera by Warren.

(More uplifting news stories.)
A US Army soldier heard his fate Wednesday as a Russian court in Vladivostok handed down a conviction against Staff Sgt. Gordon Black for theft and making murderous threats, sentencing him to three years and nine months in prison, reports the BBC . Black had pleaded not guilty to threatening to kill his girlfriend, whom US officials say the 34-year-old soldier had met in South Korea, but conceded he was "partially" guilty of swiping about $120 from her.

Russian prosecutors had sought a four-year, eight-month sentence. Black will serve out the stint he received in a penal colony. The soldier was reportedly on leave and on his way to his home base in Texas from South Koreaexcept he decided to take a detour to Russia on his way back. "Instead of returning to the continental United States, Black flew from Incheon, Republic of Korea, through China to Vladivostok, Russia, for personal reasons," a US Army spokesperson says, per the AP.

The US Army said last month that Black hadn't received official clearance to travel to Russia, and the AP notes he likely wouldn't have received such clearance if he'd asked due to the war in Ukraine. After the verdict, the woman said to be the girlfriend of Black called the sentence "quite humane" and claimed that Black was "violent and unable to control himself."

story continues below

The Independent reports Black is married with a child, though the outlet also notes that he'd filed for divorce. State agencies say that Black will appeal his conviction. Reuters notes that at least a dozen other Americansincluding Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelanare currently being detained in Russia. (More Russia stories.)
The US Department of Agriculture has indefinitely put the kibosh on inspections of avocados and mangos imported from Mexico, citing "security concerns" for USDA staff. Inspections of those food items "will remain paused until the security situation is reviewed and protocols and safeguards are in place," the government agency tells Quartz . Julio Sahagun Calderon, who heads up APEAM, Mexico's association of avocado growers and packers, tells the New York Times that "the interruption of avocado exports from Michoacan [state] was due to an incident unrelated to the avocado industry."

The paper notes that, per Mexican media, two USDA inspectors were illegally detained at a community-run checkpoint. According to Ken Salazar, the American ambassador to Mexico, the inspectors were assaulted while being held, per the AP. He said that the pair has since been released. Avocado growers in Mexicoand especially in Michoacan, the nation's largest exporter of avocadosoften register complaints about drug gangs threatening them and their families and demanding "protection" payments to ensure the growers won't be kidnapped or killed.

Per the USDA, "avocados and mangos in transit are not impacted," but Quartz warns that if the import stoppage stretches on long enough, supply in the US could suffer and prices may rise. The agency says it hopes to start inspections again "as swiftly as possible," per the Times. Avocado inspections were also temporarily derailed in early 2022, after a USDA inspector received a verbal threat. That stoppage was lifted just days later, after Mexico put in place new safety measures for all inspectors. (More Mexico stories.)
Iowans who fly apparently need to brush up on their manners. The state fared worst in a survey of airplane etiquette breaches by Solitaire Bliss. The site compiled a "naughty habits scale" of witnessed offenses such as reclining a seat without asking, loud phone use, passing gas, using both armrests, hanging legs in the middle aisle, arguing, drinking too much, etc.pretty much all the nightmare scenarios one can encounter in a seatmate. Here are the worst 10 states and their cumulative scores:

Iowa, 94.29 Illinois, 89.81 Virginia, 88.85 Texas, 86.18 Georgia, 85.60 California, 83.77 Washington, 83.40 Nebraska, 82.86 Utah, 81.63 Colorado, 81.15
The most closely watched race in Tuesday's primary votingone seen as a test of Donald Trump's swayremained too close to call early Wednesday. GOP Rep. Bob Good of Virginia, chair of the House Freedom Caucus, was locked in a tight contest against state Sen. John McGuire, reports the AP. Though Good is a diehard conservative, he earned the wrath of Trump by endorsing Ron DeSantis for the GOP presidential nomination, notes the Hill. Good eventually backed Trump when the Florida governor dropped out, but the former president endorsed McGuire in the 5th District and campaigned for him. Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy also endorsed McGuire as revenge against Goodwho voted to oust McCarthy from the speakershipmaking the tight race a "surprisingly strong showing" for the incumbent, per Politico.
The pastor of a Texas megachurch has resigned after a woman said he had sexually abused her on multiple occasions in the 1980s, beginning when she was 12. Gateway Church's board of elders said in a statement that they'd accepted the resignation of Robert Morris, the church's senior pastor and founder, per the AP . The board said it had hired a law firm to conduct an independent review to make sure they "have a complete understanding of the events" from 1982 to 1987.

The allegations came to light Friday on the religious watchdog blog the Wartburg Watch. Cindy Clemishire, Morris' accuser, told the Dallas Morning News in an interview Saturday that she met Morris in 1981, when he was a traveling preacher and began preaching at her family's church in Oklahoma. She said Morris and his wife and young son became close to her family. She said he was staying at her house in 1982 when he asked her to come to his room. He told her to lay on his bed and then began touching her inappropriately, said Clemishire, now 54. She said the abuse continued for about four-and-a-half years.

When asked about the allegations by the Christian Post, Morris, 62, said in a statement to the publication that when he was in his early 20s he was "involved in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in a home where I was staying." He added that "it was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong" and that "this behavior happened on several occasions over the next few years." The church, based in the Dallas suburb of Southlake, was founded by Morris in 2000 and has multiple locations in the area. It says over 100,000 people attend each weekend. Morris, the founding pastor, was among those on former President Trump's evangelical advisory board.

(More megachurches stories.)
Growing up in Roslyn, New York, Darren Sands found holes in his family history. As a journalist, he sought to fill them and uncovered a remarkable story of bravery that played out over a century before his time, less than 10 miles from where he grew up. In 2021, while working on an upcoming book about Coretta Scott King, the widow of Martin Luther King Jr., Sands learned his great-great-great-great grandfather had fought for the Union during the Civil War. Born into slavery in 1820, seven years before New York banned the practice, Hewlett Sands became the property of a wealthy Long Island family. In 1864, before his 44th birthday, he "would collect a $300 bounty and join the 26th United States Colored Troops infantry regiment" then preparing for war, Darren Sands writes at the AP .

"I have a very strong sense of connection to the idea Hewlett Sands risked his life for not just his family, but for a higher ideal," writes the journalist. "I think all those men shared a sense of doing something that was going to impact generations that they would never meet." That sense of duty pervaded generations. Alonzo Sands, Hewlett's great-grandson and Darren's grandfather, would later serve in World War II. And Darren himselfwell, "as a journalist, I feel it's part of my mission to educate and inform people about all this," he writes. "Over the many decades since the Civil War, there was a lot of displacement among my ancestors; people moved away and never came back and a lot of our family stories were lost."

And our generations lose something when ancestors' stories are forgotten. For Darren, the story of his relative "helped me understand where I came from and who I was." Today, Hewlett is among 200,000 Black Union Army soldiers whose names are etched on the African American Civil War Memorial in Washington, DC. "This Juneteenth I'm returning to the memorial to honor him and all who served our country, one that spent its first two centuries seeing most of its Black people as someone else's property," Sands writes. "In a special ceremony, I'll carry on the more than 150-year-old commemoration of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finding out on June 19, 1865, that they'd been freed." Read more on Sands' investigation here. (More Juneteenth stories.)
A truck that crashed into a wall on State Highway 2 in Poneke/Wellington, moderately injuring the driver, is causing major traffic delays for drivers heading north on Wednesday.

The road is down to one lane (northbound) just before the Horokiwi Rd exit.



In an update at 2:30pm, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) said a heavy tow had arrived at the crash scene to remove the truck.



"Please continue to expect DELAYS", the agency said.


"I am well aware of the hateful rumours being spread around, I only ask that you know me before you judge me," Cat's post said. "I have decided to share a letter written by Thomas to show that all is not as it seems. I owe my assurances to whoever may have any information, that the children will be coming back to a loving and stable family."

Phillips sparked a major search and rescue operation lasting 17 days, before he returned home from the bush with the children aged 8, 6 and 5 years old.

He walked into his parents' farmhouse with the children on September 30, 2021, before disappearing again with them in December 2021.

Police said Phillips no longer has legal custody and a warrant is out for his arrest on several charges including aggravated robbery following an armed holdup at the ANZ bank in Te Kuiti in 2023.

It is not clear when the letter shared by Cat, which she claims was written by the children's father, was written.

"I know if I ever give up trying to make things right I will regret it forever. I'm sorry for everything I have ever said or done to hurt you," the letter reads.
Fairbanks, AK (99701)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low 24F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low 24F. Winds light and variable.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

ASRY's IT Senior Manager, Mr. Mohammed AlSharqawy, attended the recent Advisory Board Meeting of His Highness Shaikh Nasser Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Center (NAIRDC) as a representative of the Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY), in the presence of Advisory Board members to discuss the Center's AI Innovative Solutions achievements in the first and second quarters of 2024.

During the meeting, Sharqawy commended the successful deployment of AI and Data Analytics Solutions for Energy Consumption Prediction.

The Live Dashboard, developed with NAIRDC, helps monitor and analyze energy consumption by rapidly processing and accurately analyzing large data volumes to enhance forecasting and anticipate issues, strengthening effective decision-making.

Additionally, Sharqawy presented new collaborative initiatives being explored between ASRY and NAIRDC, outlining plans to leverage innovative AI-powered solutions and engage in future projects to streamline ASRY's processes in alignment with the Industry Revolution 4.0.

In an earlier statement, AlSharqawy announced ASRY is undertaking advanced solutions ensuring optimal resource utilization, improving work flexibility, boosting operational and production efficiency, and enabling effective decision-making for continuous performance improvement.

He stated that investing in AI and smart Digital Solutions is integral to ASRY "strategy to achieve sustainability and elevate its position regionally and globally as a distinguished entity contributing to Bahrain's economy and maritime sector.

Furthermore, he expressed appreciation for NAIRDC's efforts driving digital transformation and fostering innovation to enhance Bahrain's standing as a leading AI innovation hub in the region.
VANCOUVER, BC, June 19, 2024 /CNW/ - NUQO Modular and Raven Indigenous Capital Partners are pleased to announce an investment partnership set to revolutionize the landscape of affordable housing and child-care solutions across Canada.

Capilano site (CNW Group/Raven Indigenous Capital Partners Inc.)

NUQO Modular, a trailblazing, woman-led, Indigenous-owned company specializing in modular construction, has received a multi-million-dollar investment from Raven Indigenous Capital, a leading investor in Indigenous and Native American entrepreneurs. NUQO will use the funds to accelerate the construction of affordable housing and launch modular solutions in the child-care and education sectors.

"As a values-led company, NUQO has a high bar for partnership criteria. Raven met those expectations. Their investment strengthens our ability to expand to meet community demands for quality housing and childcare. We are honoured by this partnership." said NUQO Founder and CEO, Rory Richards.

"Raven is thrilled to support the next phase of NUQO's growth and development as it expands its offerings of innovative, sustainable, and culturally grounded modular spaces in the housing, child-care and education sectors." said Stephen Nairne, Chief Investment Officer of Raven Indigenous Capital Partners.

NUQO is creating a lasting impact in Indigenous communities, having recently completed two award-winning affordable housing buildings, including 82 units of housing, in partnership with the Squamish Nation. Cultural integrity and safety are at the heart of NUQO's designs. In Canada's construction industry, where women comprise a mere 12% of the sector, NUQO is committed to providing a safe and inclusive workplace for women. A certified B Corp, NUQO's innovative approach to modular building significantly reduces construction timelines and minimizes waste and disposal costs.

To learn more about NUQO, inquire about a new project, or explore career opportunities, visit: nuqo.ca

About NUQO Modular

Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, NUQO Modular is a female-led, proudly Indigenous construction company recognized for its sustainable and culturally grounded approach to modular building. Committed to community empowerment, NUQO partners with like-minded architects and partners to deliver high-quality, environmentally responsible, and culturally significant building solutions.

About Raven Indigenous Capital Partners

Established in 2018, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners is an Indigenous-led and owned social finance intermediary headquartered in Vancouver. Raven works in partnership with Indigenous enterprises and social purpose organizations to accelerate their success by providing access to capital and bespoke technical assistance within an Indigenous cultural framework. Ultimately, Raven aims to achieve a positive and lasting impact on the Indigenous economies.

SOURCE Raven Indigenous Capital Partners Inc.

For any media inquiries, please contact Rory Richards, [email protected]; Stephen Nairne, [email protected]
A rooftop restaurant boasting incredible ocean views is the latest addition to Asbury Parks burgeoning culinary landscape.

AP Rooftop, a new upscale, upstairs eatery, is opening its doors this week along the boardwalk. The business is expected to open Thursday or Friday although an exact date has not been determined, owner Tim McLoone told NJ Advance Media.

READ MORE: Asbury Parks 11 best restaurants, ranked, for 2024

AP Rooftop will occupy the third floor of the 5th Avenue Pavilion on Ocean Ave. overtop of McLoones Iron Whale. Tim McLoones Supper Club and The Robinson Ale House are located nearby.

Its going to be a different concept than our other places, McLoone said. We see it more as a casual meeting place rather than a straight up restaurant.

The rooftop eatery will feature tables, booths and bar seating for over 200 guests, floor-to-ceiling windows displaying a 270-degree view of the ocean and two large fireplaces to keep the space warm in winter months.

We cant just drop dead in January, McLoone explained, noting the restaurant will be open year-round. That way we can keep people employed, we dont have to shut down for a couple of months and rebuild the whole staff.

AP Rooftop, a third-story eatery with an elevated view of the ocean, is opening in Asbury Park under the McLoone's Restaurants umbrella. (Photo Courtesy, DeBo Construction)DeBo Constrcution

Asbury Parks new elevated gathering spot connects to the Arthur Pryor Bandshell where concerts are held throughout the summer.

Food and drink offerings will include handheld, share-ables like pizza, sliders, seafood and a selection of cocktails. Its going to have a Mediterranean/Italian feel to it, McLoone said of the menu, which has not yet been posted.

This will be the 10th spot under the McLoone umbrella, which also includes Kahuna Burger, McLoones Pier House and The Robinson Ale House (all in Long Branch); McLoones Boathouse (West Orange); CJ McLoones (Tinton Falls) The Robinson Ale House (Red Bank) and The Rum Runner (Sea Bright).

McLoone pointed to the shore towns diversity as a reason for another business opening in Asbury Park.

I always say to people the real attraction of Asbury Park is, if you look at that boardwalk theres no demographic. Its all ages, all ethnicities and everything, McLoone said.

AP Rooftop, a third-story eatery with an elevated view of the ocean, is opening in Asbury Park under the McLoone's Restaurants umbrella. (Photo Courtesy, DeBo Construction)DeBo Construction

More food coverage

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While 25% of county jails across New Jersey have closed their cell doors for good, Hudson County is making a major investment in its correctional facility  a move that county officials say will bring in more revenue and make the jail safer.

The county is embarking on an $85 million renovation project at the Kearny facility that will touch almost every area of the jail, from the lobby to visiting areas to recreation space for the inmates, with the focus on creating more space and improving working conditions.
Heavier trucks could start using the nations highways and bridges if a bill to increase tractor trailer weights from 40 to 45 tons passes Congress.

The measure, which was voted out of a congressional committee in May 2023, is being supported by a coalition of shippers, manufacturers, agribusinesses and trade groups that contends allowing heavier trucks would make those industries more productive.

Opponents, which include several members of the New Jersey congressional delegation and Hunterdon County commissioners, are concerned about what heavier trucks would do to worsen the condition of aging bridges and highway pavement and about highway safety.
A county jail guard was acquitted this week of criminal charges stemming from the 2017 death by suicide of an inmate, the Cumberland County prosecutor said Wednesday.

Corrections officer Tabatha Roman, 37, was indicted on a third-degree charge of endangering another person for allegedly failing to perform checks on Megan Moore, 21, who was jailed following her arrest on outstanding warrants. She was found hanging in her cell on Feb. 20, 2017.

It was our duty to seek justice on behalf of Megan N. Moore who died by suicide under Ms. Romans care and watch, Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae said in an email to NJ Advance Media on Wednesday. While were disappointed with the outcome, we must accept the verdict rendered by the judge.

Webb-McRae said Roman was acquitted in the bench trial.

It was a tragic situation, Romans attorney, Michael Testa, Sr. told NJ Advance Media on Wednesday. But the answer isnt to try to find a fall person to take responsibility.

Testa said Roman was very emotional when she heard the Superior Court judges ruling.

All along, this is what she expected and why she did not try to resolve it on a pretrial basis, Testa said. She believed she was innocent.

A lawsuit filed by Moores family was settled in 2022 for $500,000, with the county covering $475,000 and CFG Health Systems responsible for the remainder.

Attorneys have settled a total of seven federal lawsuits brought by families of men and women who died by suicide while held in the Cumberland County jail.

The cost to settle the lawsuits totaled more than $2.3 million, court documents show.

Editors note: NJ Advance Media typically limits reporting on suicides to those that occur in crowded public places, involve public figures or, in special circumstances, where there is a larger public impact. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced with the proper mental health support and treatment. If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

Staff writer Matt Gray contributed to this report.

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Bill Duhart may be reached at bduhart@njadvancemedia.com.
MORE: N.J. weather: How rare are 100 temperatures in our area? See the stats.

Wednesday will be another day in a weeklong stretch of steamy weather in New Jersey, with temperatures rising into the low 90s and humidity that will make it feel even hotter.

Eighteen of the states 21 counties are under a heat advisory through Thursday night or Friday morning as temperatures are expected to soar to the low 90s under sunny skies this afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. The heat index  how hot it feels when humidity is factored in  should top out between 95 and 100 degrees.

A few school districts across the state have called for early dismissals on Wednesday due to the heat. Some are off for the Juneteenth holiday, while others already had early dismissals scheduled as the school year winds down.

Only Atlantic, Cape May and Cumberland counties do not have a heat advisory, though it will still be plenty warm there with temperatures making it to the upper 80s inland.

Highs along the Jersey Shore from Monmouth to Cape May counties should top out in the upper 70s to low 80s.

A heat wave starts on the third straight day of 90-plus degree temps. That will be Wednesday for some parts of the state, including Newark and Thursday for many more, including Trenton and Camden.

There will be a bit of relief Wednesday night, thanks to radiational cooling and light winds as temperatures fall into the low to mid-60s.

A heat advisory is in place for most of New Jersey on Wednesday and Thursday. Much of the state will be under an excessive heat watch over the weekend.National Weather Service

Thursday will be another very warm day, though its not going to be quite as unbearable as thought earlier in the week, the weather service said in its morning forecast discussion.

Temperatures on Thursday will be in the low 90s, with a heat index in the low to mid-90s.

Friday will be another hot day, with highs in the low to mid-90s. The humid conditions will make it feel as hot as the upper 90s to low 100s. There could be some relief in the form of afternoon showers and thunderstorms, though.

These storms may have an impact on high temperatures Friday, but it is far too soon to determine timing and placement of those storms and what impacts those storms would have on the temperature forecast, the weather service said Wednesday morning.

Theres not much change in the forecast for the weekend  expect a pair of hot days with widespread temperatures in the low to mid-90s.

The heat advisory is in effect until 6 a.m. Friday for Somerset, Middlesex, Mercer, Salem, Gloucester, Camden, Sussex, Warren, Morris, Hunterdon, Monmouth, Ocean and Burlington counties. Then an excessive heat watch kicks in from Friday morning until Sunday evening.

The heat advisory is place until 6 p.m. Thursday for Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Union. There is no excessive heat watch for the five northeast counties.

Current weather radar

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
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St Helens Church in Abbotsham is set to see its historic bells ring once more, following a 34,985 grant from the National Churches Trust.

The funding, part of a 1 million urgent support package for 18 historic churches across the UK, will enable vital repairs to the churchs deteriorating bell tower.

The tower at St Helens has suffered significant damage, with serious fractures in the south and west walls allowing rainwater to seep in.

This has led to extensive water damage, flooding the bell chamber during heavy rains, rotting the supporting timbers, and threatening the churchs structure.

Consequently, the bell chamber has become unsafe, silencing the churchs bells and endangering the buildings future.

The church is listed on Historic Englands Heritage at Risk Register.

Without intervention, the church risks losing its status as a place of worship and a community hub, a loss that the National Churches Trust said: Would be devastating for the local area.

Claire Walker, Chief Executive of the National Churches Trust said: This will safeguard unique local heritage and keep it open and in use for the benefit of local people. The National Churches Trust helps hundreds of churches each year, and with the support of local people, keeps them thriving today and tomorrow.

Martin Wilson, Churchwarden of St Helens, welcomed the grant.

He said: This exceptionally generous grant is wonderful news and will help secure the long-term future of our beautiful church, he said. The financial support from the National Churches Trust has been crucial, allowing our church to continue serving as a place of worship and a vital community resource.

St Helens Church is renowned for its architectural features, including a 15th-century wagon roof adorned with carved wooden angels, a 1921 carved wooden reredos, and 39 pews with 16th-century bench ends, each depicting a different scene.

The church also boasts a Norman font and Victorian stained-glass windows. The bell tower houses six bells, including one cast in 1385, believed to be the oldest in the county.

The National Churches Trusts funding was made possible by a 500,000 donation from a private benefactor, sparking further support from over a thousand individuals, businesses, and trusts.

This collective effort has raised more than 1 million, helping to preserve these historic churches for future generations.

Claire also said: Churches are the beating hearts of communities. Making vital repairs means these churches will stay open, serving local people. Every church kept open keeps a community alive.
With the general election approaching on July 4, it's important to meet the candidates who could represent North Devon in Parliament.

Nigel James - Reform UK:

My name is Nigel James and I am standing for Parliament on behalf of Reform UK North Devon.

At the next general election the people of North Devon have a simple choice.

Do they vote for change or do they vote for more of the same? Change is long overdue but that needn't mean choosing from the same old stagnant pool of career politicians and party place-men and women.

There is little difference between Labour and Conservative any longer, they have finally, and inevitably, met in the centre which is precisely where they want to be.

Indeed, Keir Starmer's only appeal to conservatives, from the platform at the Labour party conference, was vote for us because we won't be quite as ineffectual as them.

Not much of a choice is it?

Reform will do what it says on the tin.

It means real change.

Common sense.

It means saving Britain from crackpot wokeism, out of control spending, swingeing taxation, Net Zero madness, uncontrolled mass immigration, both legal and illegal, the interfering European Court of Human Rights and the cosy consensus on all of this which we see at Westminster today and which has cost us the real Brexit the majority of people voted for in this constituency

I have made my home in North Devon with my wife of 52 years, a family man who knows what it's like raise two children, both now in their forties.

I've been campaigning for over a year now, talking to people of North Devon on their doorsteps as well as involving myself in the local community from where I am seeing the challenges and the issues that concern them.

North Devon needs an MP who follows through on those issues rather than using their platform to campaign prolifically on a single issue.

30 years in the motor trade in General Management and Aftersales for BMW where my customer care skills experience suits the role of solving problems in the wider aspect of constituency matters.

I've voted Conservative all my life, but I no longer recognise the party it once was, aswell as loosing any confidence that they would deliver on what they say.

North Devon needs a bold representative who is returned to parliament to get results.

Who is there to protect our rural and agricultural areas from rampant over-development?

People are telling me that they have been let-down and have little confidence in any of the main parties. There is an alternative

If you really want a determined representative who believes in getting results, then put your cross next to Reform UK on polling day.

Selaine Saxby - Conservatives:

Having had the honour of being your MP since 2019 I am standing again to be your voice in Westminster.

I come from a family of teachers and my father was head of a large coastal comprehensive.

State school educated myself, with a first from Cambridge in Mathematics and Management Studies, I am passionate about ensuring all children have access to an excellent education.

I went on to set up my own retail business and experienced the highs and lows a small business presents.

I started my political journey young.

As a child, I wrote to my local MP, and neighbour, Ian Gow about issues in my life.

I loved his detailed responses and commitment to his community  even those not old enough to vote.

I strive to replicate this in my responses to letters and questions from school children and students.

I was home the morning Ian was murdered by the IRA in July 1990.

I heard the car bomb go off; my father was with him when he died.

There is no doubt this event has shaped much of who I am, what I do and how seriously I take politics.

Politics is a serious business; MPs are legislators who make life changing decisions and

complex legal changes.

I work hard and would like us all to have serious conversations about policy and the future of our country and community.

I was an environmentalist before I was a Conservative.

I have helped secure wins in how our bathing waters are tested, increased hedgerow regulation, highly protected marine areas designated into English waters, and banning numerous single use plastics.

Recently having joined the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee I am keen to get back to work there, supporting our farmers and improving our food security, alongside championing our precious environment.

Since 2019 when you elected me for the first time, I have helped deliver for North Devon. 54% of homes now have Gigabit Broadband, up from 3% in 2019.

I helped secure millions in investment across North Devon in the Future High Street Fund and for the Ilfracombe Watersports Centre.

Two new wards at North Devon Hospital and work now starting on the first phase of the Redevelopment.

Labour have said they will reassess all projects with capital expenditure, leaving this hard won battle for further redevelopment at risk without a Conservative government.

My team and I have dealt with over 38,000 pieces of casework, solving many issues for many people which involved writing over 10,000 letters and having logged over 65,000 emails.

My Puppy Smuggling Bill almost made it into law.

If elected, I will of course fight to take this Bill forward to become law.

Yes, mistakes have been made nationally, and by me locally; we are all human, but I hope you will put your trust in me again on July 4th to continue the work I have started to make North Devon an even better place to live, work, and bring up a family.

Nicky Edwards - Labour:

Im Nicky Edwards, Labours candidate for North Devon. Im honoured to stand as a Labour candidate in this election. Its clear that the people of North Devon are ready for change after 14 years of Tory chaos.

Ive had a long career in communications, policy, and campaigning, working largely with charities and not-for-profit organisations.

I am also a published author, and have written three novels.

My key priorities for North Devon are:

Helping families hit by the cost-of-living crisis, which has been worsened by Tory mini-budget bungling. Labours first step in government will be to deliver economic stability with tough spending rules so we can grow our economy, making life more affordable and creating good jobs with a real living wage.

Establishing genuinely affordable homes for people in North Devon. Labour will deliver the biggest boost to affordable housing in a generation, and our plan includes investment in social and family housing with proper infrastructure.

Delivering clean power via Great British Energy, a publicly-owned energy company, that will lower bills, create jobs and help businesses to grow in North Devon, while boosting our energy independence.

Fixing the neglected NHS by delivering more NHS dentist, hospital and doctor appointments in North Devon.

Giving our children the best start in life, by supporting a Labour government that will recruit 6,500 new teachers and deliver 100,000 new nursery places.

Good water quality is hugely important to North Devons vital tourism industry, and to the health and well-being of people who like to enjoy our beautiful coastline.

Unacceptably, the Tories have turned a blind eye to illegal sewage dumping. Labour has pledged to put failing water companies under tough special measures to force them to clean up their toxic mess and protect peoples health.

I am motivated to stand in North Devon because Ive seen first-hand the urgent need for change. People who live here have been badly let down by the Conservative Government over the last 14 years.

If elected, I will be a strong voice for North Devon in Parliament and work together with other MPs in the South West to ensure that the needs of the region are addressed by the new Government.

I will address the biggest challenges facing our community, including the cost-of-living crisis, lack of affordable housing, overstretched schools, unacceptably long NHS waiting lists, the need for clean water and sustainable, affordable energy. Labour has a long-term, serious plan to change Britain which will bring huge benefits to the people of North Devon.

As your MP, I will be accountable to constituents at the ballot box. Between elections, I will welcome the scrutiny of local media and engage with public meetings and events in the constituency.

I also look forward to meeting with constituents and responding to their individual concerns, and view this as one of the most important parts of the job.

Ian Roome - Liberal Democrats:

We all know that Julys general election is going to be crucial for North Devon and the UK.

So its an honour for me to have been chosen as the Liberal Democrat candidate for North Devon.

I love this area and feel lucky to have brought up my family here after being posted to Chivenor by the RAF in 1989.

Im a Yorkshireman who has made Barnstaple my home for the last 35 years, during which time Ive served my community through work, local politics and fundraising.

I came here by chance but Ive stayed here by choice.

Im hoping to represent the people of North Devon in Westminster and to make their voices heard.

Having worked in healthcare and housing, I understand the pressures that people face.

My number one priority is fixing the broken parts of our NHS. The NHS has been there at all the important times in my life.

From the birth of my daughters to the death of my brother, NHS staff have always been there to help me through.

We nearly lost some of our hospital services here in North Devon six years ago, thanks to Conservative government cuts.

I was heartened at the way our community rallied behind the campaign to keep our hospital services here.

Now, the health services seem to me to be in crisis once again. Its time to fight for them again.

We will give everyone the right to see a GP within seven days, or within 24 hours if they urgently need to, with 8,000 more GPs to deliver on it.

The Lib Dems will guarantee access to an NHS dentist for everyone needing urgent and emergency care, ending DIY dentistry and dental deserts.

We will also improve early access to mental health services by establishing mental health hubs for young people in every community and introducing regular mental health check-ups at key points in peoples lives when they are most vulnerable to mental ill-health.

As part of our commitment to the NHS we will boost cancer survival rates and introduce a guarantee for 100% of patients to start treatment for cancer within 62 days from urgent referral.

The other key issue for me is the sewage being pumped into the areas rivers and coast, this has to stop.

Nowhere is the Conservatives lack of care for the environment clearer than the national sewage scandal.

They are letting water company bosses get away with paying themselves millions of pounds in bonuses while dumping millions of tonnes of raw sewage into our rivers, lakes and coastal areas.

Just one in seven of Englands rivers are in good ecological health, and every single one is below chemical pollution standards.

We can end the sewage scandal by transforming water companies into public benefit companies, banning bonuses for water bosses until discharges and leaks end, and replacing Ofwat with a tough new regulator with new powers to prevent sewage dumps.

For too long North Devon has been ignored and taken for granted, it really is time for change.

Vote for me and I will be North Devons voice in Westminster, not Westminsters voice in North Devon.

Cas Lay - Green:

I have grown up in North Devon.

Im 20 years old and I happily admit Im new to politics.

Last year I ran for district council.

A big part of that was about hope and particularly for young people who feel like they havent got any say in politics.

While some might see my lack of experience as an obstacle, others will see it as a benefit.

Theres a lot wrong with our political system, but one good thing is anyone can get involved in politics.

Im the proof, and I hope other people will see me and be inspired to get involved themselves.

The Green Partys elected politicians are not whipped to a party line.

That means that if I am elected, I can make decisions based on conversations with those who live in the North Devon constituency.

The regions is filled with people who know their stuff around the issues affecting us  what works, what isnt working, what could be done to improve things.

Im not going to pretend I have the answers, but I do intend to use my energy to ask questions that need asking.

In this campaign, the big thing for me is speaking up for people in North Devon who feel like they havent got a voice.

Young people for sure.

They dont feel represented AT ALL.

But its not just young people, its people of all ages who feel let down by politicians.

Aside from this, three issues which I feel particularly passionate about are:

We all know that housing costs have gone haywire and the availability of cheap housing, to buy and rent, for locals is in short supply.

Thats not healthy for our local economy or our communities.

We need work harder to find real affordable homes for local people and think more creatively about housing models that can help alleviate this issue.

I am not the only candidate who is talking about sea and river pollution in this campaign.

The Green Party supports taking utilities  like water - back into public ownership to provide more accountability.

But in the short term we need to increase funding for testing and monitoring, penalising polluters and putting more profits into improving infrastructure.

I live next to a farm so Im aware of some of the struggles farmers face  one farmer told me he spends almost as much time on paperwork as he does actually farming.

The Green Party stands for promoting food security, strong local food chains and protection from corporate exploitation  issues farmers know all about.

These are tough times for everyone and many people feel paralysed by a sense of helplessness.

The country is in a mess and North Devon has its issues.

All the political parties will make promises about how they can solve things.

There are no easy fixes, but working together, talking more and listening more would be a good start.

Steve Cotten - Independent:

"Parachute a Local Into Westminster"

I run a pub on Exmoor that is completely green, net zero and off grid  no mains electric, gas, water or phone and miles from the nearest neighbour.

Most people know me for doing stunts and making jokes to attract customers but make no mistake I am totally serious about representing the voters of North Devon.

I am one of the thousands of people who are completely fed up with politicians and all the political parties.

If you feel like that, I am offering you a unique chance to make a protest against the system by electing a direct democracy representative.

Unlike party candidates a direct democracy MP does not have to follow party policy (influenced by party donors from business, the unions, or millionaires).

With modern technology it is quick and simple to ask voters directly for their instructions and guidance.

This puts power into the hands of normal people where it belongs.

Just think about the many common sense and local issues where all the parties ignore you. Vote for me and I will stop that in North Devon.

Obviously, the experts will say that ordinary people cant understand complex issues, but this is not true.

The widely validated theory of the Wisdom of Crowds argues against it and  anyway  most really complex issues do not have a scientifically provable right or wrong answer and everyday issues such as should we repair potholes can be decided by anyone.

Unlike 85% of MPs, who have a degree, and a comfy middle-class life, I am one of the majority of voters who lead normal lives on a low income.

Thats my best qualification.

I also have a strong team behind me, and I listen to lots of people when forming my opinions.

The North Devon Manifesto which is on my website: www.stevecotten.org.uk, is based on ideas given to me by voters.

They include things like: a delivery tax on online shopping to spend on saving our town centres, a 1% tax on supermarket alcohol sales to subsidise the local pubs that our villages and towns are losing, a public transport rebate for (North Devon has no tubes, airports, ferry terminals, trams etc) so we need it to pay for private transport, and most of all, finding a way for local people to afford to live here, many of who do vital work in care, health, hospitality, retail and trades on scandalously low pay.

We all know that none of the parties can be trusted.

They have had more than enough chances to do something, and they havent.

I realise people are scared to vote for independent candidates, but this is different.

No matter who North Devon chooses, Labour is coming to power, so you have a free vote. You have a chance to send a message to all the parties that they have let you down. Instead of staying at home or spoiling your ballot paper, why not vote for Steve Cotten?
Alex Guarnaschelli, who describes herself as a mother, chef, TV host and native New Yorker in that order, recently collaborated with her teenage daughter Ava Clark to write her most recent cookbook, Cook It Up: Bold Moves for Family Foods: A Cookbook.

Like mother, like daughter describes the culinary connection between Guarnaschelli and her daughter. The two have cooked together since Clark was very young, both at home in the family kitchen and also at Butter, her mothers Manhattan restaurant.

Ava and I enjoy such a close relationship, says Guarnaschelli. It's one of my great achievements in life and is certainly similar to how my mother and I were when I was growing up. That said, I can't say cooking is exactly collaborative between me and Ava. She will make something and then I will make something and then we eat dinner. Ava has her own distinct idea of food and we both wanted to make sure that Cook It Up reflected that vision.

Many of us know Guarnaschelli for her numerous appearances on such Food Network shows as Iron Chef America, Chopped, Supermarket Stakeout and The Kitchen, and/or her cookbooks including The Home Cook: Recipes to Know by Heart and Old-School Comfort Food.

But to understand both Guarnaschellis career, her culinary relationship with Ava, and the cookbook they wrote together, its necessary to go back into the past to a another mother and daughter culinary connection. Alexs mother, Maria Guarnaschelli was described in her New York Times obituary as a formidable book editor who helped transform American cooking from a domestic chore to a cultural touchstone, and who presided over a major revision of the popular book Joy of Cooking.

I love that my mother's legacy continues, and people enjoy all her decades of hard work, says Guarnaschelli. She was diligently dedicated to editing great books. To me, she was just mom. She did a lot of cooking and so did my father. The passion she put in all those cookbooks translated to the food she cooked at home. She was deeply academic about her approach, and I wonder if that isn't why I chose the manual and physical aspect of the field to complement everything I learned from her growing up.

Guarnaschelli credits both parents as inspiring her to become a chef.

I always loved to eat but I also loved watching my parents cook, she says. My father enjoyed cooking Chinese food while my mother took a liking to French cuisine. The fun and creative energy my parents had together in the kitchen led me to start my culinary career.

But despite these influences, Guarnaschelli forged her own culinary path.

I think my mother was all about the written word and how recipes and books provide detailed guidelines about how to cook, she says. I went physical, meaning I started working in restaurants and chopping onions, as a way of pursuing the field from a different vantage point. I enjoy living both aspects of cooking.

In her mothers New York Times obituary, Guarnaschelli is quoted as saying her mother spent years testing, retesting, and rewriting the recipes in the books she edited, until the family tired of creations like sponge cake or balsamic vinegar because She needed to understand the mechanics of cooking in order to get it onto the page.

As for Guarnaschelli, she believes she became a chef so I could take her work in the other direction, she says.

Watching her on television and more recently, interviewing her at the 2024 KitchenAid Senior PGA where she was among such stellar celebrity chefs including Carla Hall demonstrating their recipes at the KitchenAid Fairway Club near the 14th hole, its apparent that Guarnaschelli brings energy and passion to what she does. Currently she is starring in the second season of Ciao House with fellow host and judge Gabriele Bertaccini on Food Network, which began airing in May.

Gabe and I are in the south of Italy in the glorious region of Puglia, she says. There will be guaranteed seafood, beautiful landscapes andpossibly--some slightly heated conversations.

Despite her busy schedule, Guarnaschelli finds time to support many charities including City Harvest, Food Bank for New York City, No Kid Hungry and Alexs Lemonade Stand which raises money for childhood cancers and Wellness in School.

I asked Guarnaschelli what people need to know when cooking Italian food and what they typically get wrong when first starting?

I think people feel that making good Italian food is simple and easy, she says. For the most part, that is true. That said, it requires a lot of little steps and attention to detail. That's what makes classic Italian American dishes extra special. Don't sleep on the details!
VALPARAISO  Rachel Pitt has a degree in French pastry-making and has baked thousands of mini caramel apple cheesecakes from NWI to Australia. Now, shes eyeing something even sweeter: a qualifying position in Carla Halls Favorite Chef tournament.

Despite a background in patisserie-style confections, Pitt has spent the past five years working hard to improve young students nutrition as a cafeteria manager at Valparaiso Community Schools Central Elementary campus.

I want to bring awareness to the dire, dire need (for healthier food) in schools, Pitt said. Theres schools where some students might never have access to fruits and vegetables. Schools took a big hit in terms of food and staff shortages during the pandemic and were still seeing the effects of that.

At Central Elementary, Pitt helped start a program, Farmer Thursday, where the cafeteria partnered with Region Roots, an NWI food and farm hub, to get local produce once a week and incorporate it into the lunch menus. The program ran for 30 weeks this past school year and Pitt said it allowed students to sample a number of different locally-sourced recipes.

It was a really cool way to educate them on nutrition, Pitt said. And local agriculture, cooking methods. Students could sample it regardless if they got a home lunch or school lunch. It was just the coolest program.

Pitts love for baking runs in the family, as she said she learned to cook from her two grandmothers. She started taking professional cooking lessons as early as 10.

After taking a break from the dining industry, Pitt had two children and decided to go back into the field. Once her eldest son started kindergarten, Pitt said she became more interested in working within the Valpo school system.

Pitt has always loved cooking shows, and cited pastry chef Duff Goldman, of Charm City Cakes fame, as one of her idols. She was lucky enough to meet Goldman at an event once and described it as a dream come true.

In addition to her beloved cheesecakes, Pitt said she generally enjoys cooking at home with her kids, and getting them involved in the labor of love of patisserie style baking.

The public voting Favorite Chef competition, hosted by culinary personality Carla Hall, will hand out a grand prize award including a $25,000 cash honorarium and a chance to cook alongside Hall and a feature spread in Taste of Home Magazine.

The public can vote for free or pay for extra votes after viewing someone's profile and food pictures. Some concerns have been raised over how much money the host organization, now Colossal Management, keeps for itself versus donating, as well as whether there is data mining involved.

Pitt is trying to be realistic about her chances in the competition and says no matter what happens this week or moving forward, the social media campaign has brought attention to her school program.

The initial round began on May 20. As of Tuesday morning, Pitt is fifth in her group; the top five move onto the next round when this period of voting ends Thursday.

Maybe we can bring more farm to table products to schools, Pitt said. If schools can advocate for what the want to see, and build a relationship with parents and people that feed their children, thats a big thing for me.

You can learn more about Pitt here and the competition at: https://favchef.com/.
A last-minute political compromise has headed off an effort to repeal a California law allowing workers to sue employers for workplace violations  a legal tool that has cost companies billions of dollars.

The compromise, announced on Tuesday by Gov. Gavin Newsom, followed meetings with business leaders and the powerful California Labor Federation over ways to modify the 2004 law, the Private Attorneys General Act.

The law, known as PAGA, lets employees file civil complaints  on their own behalf and for fellow workers  against businesses, sometimes costing them tens of millions of dollars in settlements.

We came to the table and hammered out a deal that works for both businesses and workers, and it will bring needed improvements to this system, Mr. Newsom said in a statement on Tuesday. This proposal maintains strong protections for workers, provides incentives for businesses to comply with labor laws and reduces litigation.
There is no legitimate use for a bump stock  not for self-defense, not in a law enforcement context, not even a military application, Mr. Heinrich said. What they are tailor-made for is a mass shooting.

Senator Pete Ricketts, Republican of Nebraska, quickly moved to scuttle Mr. Heinrichs legislation, noting that he and other G.O.P. senators had filed a brief urging the Supreme Court to overturn the ban.

The Supreme Court made the right decision, said Mr. Ricketts, who formally objected to advancing the legislation. He said the bill could prevent use of other firearm accessories that make it easier for some individuals, such as disabled military veterans, to use guns. We cannot allow unelected bureaucrats at the A.T.F. to abuse their authority to interpret laws in ways Congress clearly never intended, Mr. Ricketts said, referring to the federal regulatory agency.

Other Republicans had made clear they were also prepared to lodge an objection to moving forward with the bill and accused Democrats of orchestrating a political show vote since they knew the outcome in advance.

Democrats said they had hoped the fact that the ban was initiated in 2019 during the Trump administration and had the backing of many Republicans at the time would be enough to persuade the G.O.P. to join Democrats in putting it back in place. But they were aware that was unlikely, and said Republicans would pay a political price if they refused to go along.
The federal government has released a report that for the first time acknowledges the harms that dams in the Pacific Northwest have inflicted and continue to inflict on Native American tribes, it said.

The report, released on Tuesday by the Interior Department, details the historic, ongoing, and cumulative damage and injustices that the federal dams on the Columbia River have caused and continue to cause to Tribal Nations, the Biden administration said in a statement. It is also starting a task force to pursue restoring wild salmon and other native fish to the rivers basin, and to expand tribally sponsored clean energy production, it said.

Large hydroelectric dams were built throughout the basin at the beginning of the 20th century, and, according to the report, flooded thousands of acres, sacred sites and ancestral burial grounds. They also transformed the ecosystem, including by blocking fish from migrating. As a result, many tribal communities have been unable to fish, changing traditional diets and cultural practices.

Our older commitments to the land itself, and to the inhabitants that were here before us, doesnt happen, Shannon F. Wheeler, chairman for the Nez Perce Tribe, one of those considered by the report, said by phone on Tuesday. In the past, a large part of the tribes diet was salmon, he added, but that has drastically declined.
Robert Morris, the founder of a Texas megachurch and a faith adviser to the Trump White House, has resigned from his job as its senior pastor, the church said on Tuesday, days after he was accused of sexually abusing a child in the 1980s.

The Board of Elders of Gateway Church, based in Dallas, said in a statement that it had accepted Mr. Morriss resignation. The board said it had hired a law firm to conduct an independent investigation into the abuse allegations made public last week by a woman who is now 54. Mr. Morris could not immediately be reached for comment on Tuesday night.

The statement did not say if any related charges had been filed against Mr. Morris, whose church says it has more than 100,000 active attendees. Messages sent to Haynes and Boone, the firm hired by the church, did not immediately respond to messages.

Over the weekend, The Christian Post, a Christian news outlet based in Washington, D.C., quoted Mr. Morris as saying that he had engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady.
Mike OBrien, a former Marine Corps officer and fighter pilot who made the preservation of democracy central to his candidacy, lost a Pennsylvania Democratic primary in April to a newscaster, Janelle Stelson, who used issues like abortion access and the price of gasoline and groceries to win the right to challenge a fierce Trump Republican ally, Representative Scott Perry.

In 2018, the Vindman brothers, both lieutenant colonels in the Army and aides on the White House National Security Council at the time, raised internal alarms about a phone call in which Mr. Trump asked Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky, to announce an investigation into the business dealings of Mr. Bidens son Hunter in his country.

At the time, Mr. Biden was widely expected to be Mr. Trumps opponent in the 2020 election. The call was central to the first of Mr. Trumps two impeachments, and it vaulted both Vindmans to prominence in liberal circles, though Alexander Vindman was the only brother who testified as part of the impeachment proceedings. Eugene Vindman, who was dismissed from the White House early in 2020, he says as improper retaliation for his whistle-blowing actions, raised a remarkable sum of money for a first-time candidate.

I sacrificed my military career to expose Trumps corruption, Eugene Vindman said in one of his campaign ads.

His election to the House is not guaranteed. Ms. Spanberger, a Democrat who is retiring to run for governor, won the newly drawn district, which runs from Washingtons far-southern suburbs into the countryside north of Richmond, by 4.6 percentage points in 2022. But Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, won the district the year before by 4.9 points en route to winning the governors mansion.
A high-level U.S. congressional delegation, including the former House speaker Nancy Pelosi, met with the Dalai Lama at his Indian home on Wednesday, a visit that was condemned in advance by Chinas government, which considers the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader a separatist.

The delegation, led by Michael McCaul, the Republican chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, arrived on Tuesday in the Himalayan town of Dharamsala, where the Dalai Lama has lived since the 1960s. The delegation visited the offices of the Tibetan government in exile, which is pushing for autonomy for Tibet within China.

The trip comes days after Congress passed a bill with bipartisan support that urged China to start dialogue with Tibetan leaders to find a solution to the longstanding conflict.

Chinas criticism of the visit was immediate and unsurprising. Its leaders consider the government in exile illegal and regard any support for the cause of autonomy for Tibet, which they call Xizang, as interference in internal Chinese matters.
Representative Tom Cole, the veteran Oklahoma Republican and chairman of the powerful Appropriations Committee, fended off a primary challenge on Tuesday from a well-funded right-wing businessman, putting him on track to win a 12th term.

Mr. Cole, who was first elected to Congress in 2002, has long been a fixture of Oklahoma politics and an influential legislative voice behind the scenes in Congress. The Associated Press called the race less than an hour after polls closed as Mr. Cole led by an overwhelming margin.

Mr. Cole ascended to the helm of the influential Appropriations panel in April, assuming a coveted position on Capitol Hill that put him in charge of the allocation of federal spending. Top members of the committee can steer federal dollars not just across the government, but also to their own districts.

But as the G.O.P. has veered to the right in recent years and become increasingly doctrinaire about slashing federal spending, the Appropriations gavel has morphed into a political liability for Republicans. Mr. Coles opponent, Paul Bondar, an anti-spending conservative businessman, tried to weaponize the congressmans 15-year tenure on the committee against him. Mr. Bondar argued that Mr. Coles time on Capitol Hill had left him out of touch with his district, and attacked his voting record as insufficiently conservative.
As the war has raged in Gaza, another battle has unfurled in parallel along Israels northern border with Lebanon  a risky game of tit-for-tat that has intensified in recent weeks, with a far stronger foe.

In a measure of the danger of a full-scale war erupting, President Biden dispatched one of his senior aides, Amos Hochstein, to Israel on Monday and to Lebanon on Tuesday to press for a diplomatic solution.

Unlike Hamas, the Palestinian militia fighting Israel in Gaza, Hezbollah has troops who are battle-hardened combatants, and the group possesses long-range, precision-guided missiles that can strike targets deep inside Israel.

Despite apparent efforts by both sides to keep the cycle of strikes and counterstrikes from spiraling into a full-blown war beyond the one raging in Gaza, civilians in Israel and Lebanon have been killed, and more than 150,000 people have been forced from their homes along the border.

But as the fighting in recent days has intensified, so too have fears that a miscalculation could draw the sides into deeper conflict. Hezbollah has said it will not negotiate a truce until Israel ends its military campaign in Gaza, which is likely to continue for weeks or months.

A stronger, better armed militia

Israeli military officials had long anticipated that well-trained gunmen might one day tear across their border, heading for towns and military bases, as Hamas did on Oct. 7. But they tended to look to the north, fearing Hezbollahs elite fighters rather than the relatively weaker Palestinian armed group.
Biden gave protections to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens

President Biden announced sweeping new legal protections yesterday for undocumented immigrants who have been living in the U.S. for years and are married to Americans. It is one of the most expansive presidential actions to protect immigrants in more than a decade.

Under the new policy, 500,000 people would be shielded from deportation, given work permits and offered a pathway to citizenship. The benefits would also extend to the roughly 50,000 children of undocumented spouses who became stepchildren to American citizens. Biden administration officials said they expected the program to begin by the end of the summer.

These couples have been raising families, sending their kids to church and school, paying taxes, contributing to our country, Biden said at the White House. Theyre living in the United States all this time with fear and uncertainty. We can fix that.

Immediately after the announcement, allies of Donald Trump accused Biden of being weak on the border. Speaker Mike Johnson said the president was granting amnesty to hundreds of thousands of illegal aliens.
A boyish-looking 21-year-old, Valley grew up in a military family in rural Wisconsin and declared his intention to join the Army at age 7. He enlisted on his 18th birthday, so intent on a military career that he tried to sign a six-year contract until his father, a Gulf War veteran, persuaded him to take it more slowly and commit to three. Stationed at Fort Riley, in Kansas, he made an immediate impression on his superiors. He was one of the best workers that Ive seen in the military, a squadmate says, recalling how Valley, who drove an armored troop carrier, thought nothing of crawling into its guts to check for broken parts, emerging covered in grease, a flash of mischief in his deep brown eyes.

Valley left Slys door and walked into the forest. A fresh snow had fallen, and the larch trees towered above him, their branches bare and ghostly. Valley carried the borrowed knife and some nylon cord hed probably procured from another fellow soldier. He texted his parents: Hey mom and dad I love you it was never your fault.
Soldiers are more likely than their civilian peers to die by suicide. Many people wrongly believe this is because of combat trauma, but in fact the most vulnerable group are soldiers who have never deployed. The Armys suicide rate has risen steadily even in peacetime, and the numbers now exceed total combat deaths in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. A Times investigation into the death of Specialist Austin Valley, stationed at Fort Riley in Kansas, found that mental-health care providers in the Army are beholden to brigade leadership and often fail to act in the best interest of soldiers.

Heres what you need to know about the Armys suicide crisis:

The size and psychological strength of the Army has declined.

After the Vietnam War, the Army went through a period of recalibration, a slowing-down that allowed leaders to take stock of their troops and assess their strategies. That hasnt happened since the military pulled out of Afghanistan in 2021. For some units, in fact, the operational tempo, or amount of time soldiers spend away from home, is as high as it was during the peak of the war on terror, though the size of the force is smaller: The Army lowered its recruiting target in 2023, after falling thousands of people short of their goal in recent years.

The Armys strategy is to deter nuclear rivals like China or Russia by placing troops all over the world on peacetime missions. This requires that the Army be able to deploy anywhere, at any time, for any reason. Maintaining constant readiness often comes at the cost of the health and well-being of soldiers, who describe feeling purposeless as they are worked as hard or harder than ever with no clear goal. Everyone in the Army is depressed, one soldier says.

The Armys mental-health care system is broken.

Soldiers struggling with their mental health are sent to the Armys Behavioral Health department, referred to colloquially as B.H., which experts and providers call severely dysfunctional and understaffed. At Fort Riley, for example, there are only about 20 mental-health counselors tasked with caring for more than 12,000 soldiers. As a result, soldiers seeking help can wait weeks or months to get an appointment. Providers can keep spotty medical records and fail to thoroughly assess patients before prescribing medications, including antidepressants that carry black-box warnings that they might worsen suicidality in some young people.
New Jerseys senior U.S. senator is on trial, charged with taking bribes in exchange for political favors. A federal judge has declared the states method of conducting primary elections fundamentally unfair. And on Monday New Jerseys attorney general charged one of the states most formidable Democratic power brokers with racketeering.

A state famous for explosive political prosecutions like Abscam, Bridgegate and Bid Rig has over the past year lived up to a reputation for scandal that has left six in 10 residents convinced that New Jerseys politicians are either somewhat or very corrupt.

Im more surprised by the good things than the bad things in New Jersey politics, said Amol Sinha, executive director of New Jerseys chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union.

But there are also signs that recent political upheaval might offer a history-changing silver lining: a tipping point that leads to change.
Who among us are the most willing to jettison democratic elections? Which voters not only detest their political adversaries but also long for their destruction?

These questions are now at the heart of political science.

Five scholars have capitalized on new measurement techniques to identify partisan sectarian voters, a category that they said does indeed predict antidemocratic tendencies.

In their recent paper Partisan Antipathy and the Erosion of Democratic Norms Eli Finkel of Northwestern, James Druckman of the University of Rochester, Alexander Landry of Stanford, Jay Van Bavel of N.Y.U. and Rick H. Hoyle of Duke made the case that earlier studies of partisan hostility used ratings of the two parties on a scale of 0 (cold) to 100 (very warm) but that that measure failed to show a linkage between such hostility and antidemocratic views.

The five scholars wrote, Partisan antipathy is indeed to blame, but the guilty party is political sectarianism, not the thermometer rating system:

Insofar as people experience othering, aversion and moralization toward opposing partisans, they are more likely to support using undemocratic tactics to pass partisan policies: gerrymandering congressional districts, reducing the number of polling stations in locations that support the opposing party, ignoring unfavorable court rulings by opposition-appointed judges, failing to accept the results of elections that one loses and using violence and intimidation toward opposing partisans.

Who, then, falls into this subset of partisan sectarians?

The authors cited nine polling questions that asked voters to assess their feelings toward members of the opposition on a scale of 1 to 6, with 6 the most hostile.
After a gunman in Las Vegas killed 60 people at a concert in 2017, officials focused on a gun accessory known as a bump stock, a device that allows a rifle to fire at nearly the rate of a machine gun. Bump stocks were banned by the Trump administration after that mass shooting.

But when the Supreme Court last week struck down that ban, which had been a rare victory for gun-safety advocates in recent years, it had the potential to open the door not just to bump stocks. The ruling could also undercut President Bidens efforts to restrict other gun accessories that give semiautomatic rifles rapid-fire capabilities, lawyers and gun-policy experts on both sides of the gun debate said.

The devices are replacement triggers known as forced-reset triggers or wide-open triggers that allow shooters to fire more than 900 rounds in a minute with one continuous squeeze, federal officials say.

In March 2022, four years after the ban on bump stocks was issued, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also imposed restrictions on some of these trigger devices. The agency said in a letter at the time that the devices effectively turned semiautomatic weapons into prohibited machine guns.
Snap. Crack. Pop. These sounds, once used to sell a popular breakfast cereal, are now enticing people to visit the doctor thanks to a wave of chiropractic videos sweeping social media.

The most popular videos follow a familiar template: A patient enters with a debilitating condition. A chiropractor maneuvers the patients limbs and joints in horrifying ways, producing a series of snaps and crunches. And the patient is relieved of years of pain  all within a matter of minutes.

For viewers, the clips can be both cringeworthy and satisfying A.S.M.R. (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) content. For the chiropractors, they are valuable marketing, helping to build business.

But not everyone in the chiropractic industry is thrilled about the videos. Some doctors say they are misleading, potentially leading patients to think miracle cures are available with one pop of the spine  or even to try the procedures themselves.
A military jury on Wednesday began deliberating a sentence for an admitted war criminal at Guantanamo Bay after prosecution and defense lawyers portrayed the prisoner as, alternately, a senior member of a global Qaeda conspiracy or a battlefield commander defending Afghanistan from the U.S. invasion.

Many of the U.S. officers serving on the 11-member panel are themselves veterans of the U.S. wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. How they view the crimes of the man called Abd al-Hadi al-Iraqi could influence the length of his sentence, and whether they heed his lawyers request to recommend clemency.

The closing arguments focused on the battlefield in wartime Afghanistan, in contrast to the courts better known cases, the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks and the U.S.S. Cole bombing in 2000, which are portrayed as acts of terrorism.

Mr. Hadi, 63, who was captured in 2006, pleaded guilty in 2022. Under the terms of his agreement, he is to receive a sentence in the 25- to 30-year range. But he could be released to the custody of a trusted country, if one can be found that will give him specialized care for a paralyzing spine disease that has left him disabled.
There are hundreds of thousands of immigrants in the United States who have been living in the country illegally for years, working and making a living, starting families and sending their children to school. President Biden says they can stay.

And then there are the more recent arrivals, who have crossed the U.S.-Mexico border in record numbers, seeking protection from poverty and persecution. They will have to wait.

Mr. Biden has taken two major actions on immigration this month, expanding legal protections for undocumented spouses of American citizens while also sealing the border to most people seeking asylum in the United States.

Taken together, the decisions put Mr. Bidens approach to one of the most polarizing issues of the 2024 campaign into sharp focus: He will help immigrants who are already here, but try to keep the border shut to those trying to get in.
The United States military has not activated a draft in more than 50 years, but Congress is weighing proposals to update mandatory conscription, including by expanding it to women for the first time and automatically registering those eligible to be called up.

The proposals making their way through the House and Senate stand a slim chance of becoming law, and none would reinstate the draft compelling service right away. But the debate over potential changes reflects how lawmakers are rethinking the draft at a time when readiness issues have risen to the fore and as the Pentagon is facing recruitment challenges amid a raft of risks and conflicts around the world.

The House last week passed an annual defense policy bill that, along with authorizing $895 billion in military spending including for a 19.5 percent pay raise for troops, contained a bipartisan proposal that would make registering for the draft automatic. At the same time, a Senate committee last week approved a version of the Pentagon policy bill that would expand the registration requirement to women. Senator Jack Reed, Democrat of Rhode Island and the chairman of the panel, has championed the draft parity proposal.

Current law requires most men between the ages of 18 and 25 to register with the Selective Service, the agency that maintains a database of information about those who might be subject to military conscription, commonly referred to as a draft. The program is aimed at allowing military officials to determine who is eligible as a conscript in the event that Congress and the president activate the draft, which last happened in 1973 at the end of the Vietnam War.
As Vladimir V. Putins Russia and Xi Jinpings China deepened their confrontation with the West over the past decade, they were always united with the United States on at least one geopolitical project: dismantling or at least containing North Koreas nuclear arsenal.

That is, until the war in Ukraine broke out two years ago.

In one of the starkest back-to-the-Cold War moments yet, Mr. Putins visit Wednesday to Pyongyang  and the announcement of a pact to provide mutual assistance in the event of aggression  underscored that efforts by the worlds three biggest nuclear powers to halt nuclear proliferation by North Korea had been dying for some time. Mr. Putin and Kim Jong-un, the Norths leader, just presided over the memorial service.

Mr. Putin did far more than drop any semblance of a desire to ensure nuclear restraint. He promised unspecified technological help that  if it includes the few critical technologies Mr. Kim has sought to perfect  could help the North design a warhead that could survive re-entry into the atmosphere and threaten its many adversaries, starting with the United States.

Nowhere in the statements made Wednesday was there even a hint that North Korea should give up any of its estimated 50 or 60 nuclear weapons. To the contrary, Mr. Putin declared: Pyongyang has the right to take reasonable measures to strengthen its own defense capability, ensure national security and protect sovereignty  though he did not address whether those measures included further developing the Norths nuclear weapons.
In the Senate, the term U.C. stands for unanimous consent  usually verbal shorthand for an agreement by all senators to quickly take up and pass a bill. But with the November elections just months away, it might as well stand for: You see? Our political opponents are dead wrong on this issue.

With the focus of the political universe turning to the upcoming fight for control of Congress and the White House, lawmakers are spending most of their time not on real legislative work but in trying to corner their rivals on hot-button issues.

On the Senate floor in recent days, those efforts have often taken the form of unanimous consent requests that are designed to fail, thus spotlighting one party or anothers refusal to agree to a policy proposal.

Such procedural skirmishes provide a shortcut to Senate showdowns on wedge issues or subjects on which one party believes it has the upper hand. That was the case on Tuesday, when Democrats attempted to quickly bring up and pass a bill that would outlaw gun bump stocks after the Supreme Court last week struck down a ban on the devices.
Gov. Gavin Newsom of California on Tuesday became the latest state leader to back a ban on smartphones in schools, joining a growing, bipartisan call to limit them in the classroom.

Similar restrictions are already in place statewide in places like Florida and Indiana. Elsewhere, individual school districts or schools have instituted policies on their own. And more could follow: Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York has said she plans to pursue a similar ban next year.

We want a better understanding of what this policy means for students, parents and teachers. How has the ban been implemented in the classroom, and what does enforcement look like? Has it changed things in the classroom?

Were especially interested in hearing from people in areas where such a ban is already in place.

We wont publish any part of your response without following up and hearing back from you to learn more. Your contact information wont be shared outside of the Times newsroom, or used for anything other than to get in touch with you.
A few minutes into his speech at a campaign rally on Tuesday, Donald J. Trump asked a question of the few thousand whod turned up to hear him speak. Is anybody going to watch the debate?

Mr. Trump was in Racine, Wis., but it was clear his mind was in Atlanta, the site of his matchup against President Biden next week. He repeatedly mused about the potential scenarios, lowering expectations that he would dominate Mr. Biden and then, as if he couldnt help himself, raising them again.

The expectations game is a particular challenge for the Trump campaign. Mr. Trump, 78, has spent months casting the 81-year-old Mr. Biden as a husk of a man who can barely walk or formulate complete sentences. Republicans have pumped out a stream of videos of Mr. Biden walking stiffly  some deceptively edited  that are meant to be proof of Mr. Bidens decline.

Mr. Trumps supporters in Racine showed they have been marinating in this content. Biden cant stand up! one woman yelled during Mr. Trumps speech. She stood near another woman who wore a T-shirt with a picture of Mr. Biden that read, Impeach me. I wont remember.
In Lewiston, Maine, organizers of a Juneteenth celebration on Wednesday made changes to prepare for the heat, including moving events indoors, shortening a parade and providing extra water, as precautions were enacted all over the state amid soaring temperatures.

High-temperature records for the day were tied across Maine by midafternoon, with 95 degrees reported in Bangor, Houlton and Millinocket, according to National Weather Service officials in Caribou, where a reading of 96 degrees tied the highest temperature ever recorded there.

Its been a few years since Maine has experienced a heat wave this extreme, according to Vanessa Corson, the Maine Emergency Management Agencys public information officer.

In 2022, the state had a particularly wet summer, which followed a drought the year before. Its been this roller coaster every summer, where were not sure what to expect, Ms. Corson said.
Overshadowed by the fighting in Ukraine and Gaza, Sudans brutal civil war has been spreading for months across the western Darfur region, where atrocities were seared into international consciousness 20 years ago.

Now global attention is starting to focus on the siege of a city in Darfur, where chaotic violence has stoked fears of another ethnic slaughter, and even genocide.

Here is what we know.

A Risk of Ethnic Slaughter

The battle for the city of El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, may have made the war too big to ignore. The U.N. Security Council, in a near-unanimous vote, has demanded an end to the siege there.
Ecuador was plunged into a nationwide blackout on Wednesday afternoon, and the countrys public works minister blamed the emergency on the failure of a key transmission line.

The minister, Roberto Luque, said in a statement on X that he had received a report from the national electricity operator, CENACE, about a failure in the transmission line that caused a cascade disconnection, so there is no energy service nationwide.

He said the authorities were working to resolve the outage as quickly as possible. Within hours, power had begun to return to some parts of Quito, the capital.

The South American country of 18 million people has been struggling with an energy crisis for several years. Failing infrastructure, a lack of maintenance and a dependence on imported energy have all contributed to rolling blackouts  though none have been as widespread as this one.
President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia wrapped up a state visit to one ally, North Korea, and moved on to another, Vietnam, arriving early Thursday hoping to shore up crucial partnerships in the region as he wages a protracted war in Ukraine.

Mr. Putins war in Ukraine has left him isolated from the West, and his need for munitions to fight that war has pushed him closer to North Korea and its leader, Kim Jong-un. The two leaders have bonded over their common historical opponent, the United States, and on Wednesday revived a Cold War-era mutual defense pledge between their nations.

In Vietnam, by contrast, Mr. Putin met with officials who have recently forged deeper bonds with Washington. But Moscow has long been Hanois main source of weapons, and Mr. Putin is keen to hold on to that position.

It is Mr. Putins fifth visit to Vietnam and follows trips last year by President Biden and President Xi Jinping of China, two leaders who sought assurances from Hanoi that it was not taking the others side.
Dozens of people have died amid scorching temperatures during the annual hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, according to reports from official media in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

With forecasts saying that temperatures would top 113 degrees Fahrenheit, or 45 degrees Celsius, on Tuesday, Saudi officials issued advisories to pilgrims urging them to stay hydrated, minimize outdoor activities, and carry umbrellas to block direct sunlight.

While Saudi Arabia had not reported deaths, news reports from a number of countries whose faithful went to the hajj suggested that the heat had proved deadly.

On Sunday, Jordans official news agency said 14 pilgrims had died from exposure to extreme sun and heat. On Wednesday, the agency said burial permits had been issued for 41 Jordanian pilgrims in Mecca, but did not provide details on the causes of death.
The heiress Marlene Engelhorn in Amsterdam in 2022, when she announced her intention to give away much of her wealth.

Credit... Mashid Mohadjerin for The New York Times
The center of Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, a Balkan country born just 33 years ago as an independent state, is awash in history.

A statue of Alexander the Great looms over the central square. One of his father, Philip II of Macedon, towers above a nearby piazza atop an oversize pedestal. The city is also littered with tributes in bronze, stone and plaster to generations of other heroes from what the country sees as its glorious and very long history.

The problem, though, is that most of the history on display is claimed by other countries. Present-day North Macedonia, birthed by the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, has no real connection to Alexander the Great, who lived 2,000 years ago down the road in what is now Greece, and many of the other historical figures honored with statues are Bulgarian.
When President Vladimir V. Putin travels abroad  as he did this week to North Korea and Vietnam to bolster alliances and nurture security ties amid Russias war in Ukraine  he typically flies in dated, Soviet-designed Ilyushin Il-96 series jets.

With his latest trip coming shortly after aircraft crashes killed two other world leaders, President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran and Vice President Saulos Chilima of Malawi, a Kremlin spokesman felt it necessary recently to reassure the Russian public that Mr. Putins planes were very reliable.

Though Russian airline carriers have abandoned Ilyushin models in favor of newer Western models  neither of the countrys two major airlines, Aeroflot and Rossiya, currently list any Ilyushin planes in their commercial passenger fleet  Mr. Putin seems steadfast in his commitment.

Accompanied by fighter jets, Mr. Putin took an Il-96 on a whirlwind day trip in 2023 for talks with leaders in United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Earlier that same year, another plane in the governments Il-96 fleet was tracked stopping at airports in Washington and New York to retrieve Russian diplomats who the Kremlin said had been ordered to leave the United States.
A Russian court sentenced a U.S. Army sergeant to nearly four years in jail on Wednesday for stealing the equivalent of about $100 from a woman with whom he was romantically involved and for making death threats against her.

Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, 34, was arrested in the Pacific port of Vladivostok last month after a criminal complaint made by the woman, who has not been publicly identified by the authorities. He had traveled to Russia to visit her after completing a posting in South Korea.

A statement published by a Vladivostok court said that Sergeant Black had stolen the money and threatened her life during a domestic argument. The statement said that the theft had caused considerable harm to the woman.

The State Department said in a statement on Wednesday that it had seen reports of the sentencing but noted that it did not share information about particular cases without written consent from the citizens involved.
Britains embattled Conservative Party suffered a fresh blow after its director of campaigning took a leave of absence just two weeks before the election, following reports that his wife, one of the partys candidates, was being investigated over allegedly placing a bet on the timing of the vote.

The inquiry by Britains gambling regulator into Laura Saunders, who is running as Conservative candidate in Bristol North West, is the latest in a string of investigations into politically connected people who are alleged to have made bets on the timing of the countrys snap general election.

The Conservative Party said on Thursday that its director of campaigning, Tony Lee, had taken a leave of absence. The BBC reported that Ms. Saunders was being investigated by the Gambling Commission, which oversees the industry in the U.K., and later updated its story to say that Mr. Lee was also facing a similar inquiry.

Neither Ms. Saunders or Mr. Lee have yet responded to requests for comment on the allegations.

Keir Starmer, the leader of Britains opposition Labour Party, called for Ms. Saunders suspension as a Conservative Party candidate. If it was one of my candidates theyd be gone and their feet would not have touched the floor, he said.
This is one of the biggest cities in Darfur, a region once synonymous with genocide. Now, it is on the brink of another catastrophe. A video shows a neighborhood on fire. Using the same scorched-earth tactics that horrified the world two decades ago, fighters have torched thousands of homes and forced tens of thousands to flee. Satellite imagery shows several active fires burning in different structures in a neighborhood.

A Massacre Threatens Darfur  Again

Darfur SUDAN El Fasher

A civil war is ripping apart Sudan, one of Africas largest countries.

Tens of thousands have been killed, millions scattered and an enormous famine looms, setting off one of the worlds biggest humanitarian crises.

The city of El Fasher, home to 1.8 million people, is now at the center of global alarm. If it falls, officials warn, there may be little to stop a massacre.

Fighters battling Sudans military for control of the country have encircled the city. Gunfights rage. Hospitals have closed. Residents are running out of food.

The advancing fighters are known as the Rapid Support Forces  the successors to the notorious Janjaweed militias that slaughtered ethnic African tribes in Darfur in the 2000s. Last week, the U.N. Security Council demanded that they halt the siege of the city.

Yet a New York Times examination of satellite imagery and video from El Fasher makes one thing clear:

The assault is intensifying.

DARFUR R.S.F. control Mellit Burned villages since March 31 El Fasher Tawila R.S.F. control Al Salam Camp Abu Shoak camp Sudanese military base EL FASHER Airport Burned area since March Burned: Before May May 1 June 12 Previous aid routes into El Fasher Al Salam Camp Abu Shoak Camp EL FASHER Sudanese military base Airport Burned area since March Al Salam Camp 83,00088,000 people Abu Shoak Camp 76,000105,000 people Sudanese military base EL FASHER Airport Burned area since March Zamzam Camp 292,000450,000 people Mohamed Zakaria/Reuters Fighters battling the military often film themselves celebrating as neighborhoods burn on their push to the city center. Videos show R.S.F. fighters in vehicles on a main road in El Fasher and celebrating as a neighborhood burns. As the fighters closed in, more than 40 villages were burned near El Fasher since the beginning of April.

Some were deliberately razed. Others may have caught fire in clashes with government forces. Sources: Yale Humanitarian Research Lab (communities); Thomas van Linge (R.S.F. control) A map shows the 43 villages that were damaged or destroyed. More than 20,000 buildings have been damaged or destroyed since the militarys rivals  the Rapid Support Forces, or R.S.F.  seized the east of the city. Sources: Yale Humanitarian Research Lab (burned area); UNOSAT (buildings) A map shows the large burned areas in eastern and southern El Fasher. With both sides imposing restrictions on aid, only a trickle of humanitarian relief  around 22 trucks for a city of 1.8 million  has reached El Fasher in the past three months. A map shows where aid used to come into the city before the fighting. Even before this battle, about 500,000 people had been living in displacement camps in and around the city, some for decades. Now famine threatens and the two camps in the north are engulfed by fighting. A map shows the three largest displaced camps in El Fasher. Zamzam, the most populous, is south of the city. At the Zamzam camp south of the city, one child dies from hunger every two hours, Doctors Without Borders said in February. A woman and her baby in Zamzam camp wait alongside other women and their babies in a photo from January 2024.

The Times analyzed videos and satellite images of El Fasher, along with imagery analysis from the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab and the Sudan Witness Project at the Centre for Information Resilience, a nonprofit organization that documents potential war crimes.

The evidence shows that thousands of homes have been systematically razed and that tens of thousands of people have been forced to flee. Videos show the demeaning treatment of captives and the presence of a senior Rapid Support Forces commander recently singled out by U.S. sanctions for his role in atrocities against civilians.

R.S.F. control Mellit El Fasher Displaced people Tawila On June 8, a major hospital run by Doctors Without Borders was forced to shut down after the militarys rivals stormed the compound, firing their weapons and looting equipment, including an ambulance. Videos show R.S.F. fighters storming a major hospital and stealing an ambulance. Videos posted in recent weeks show the militarys rivals rounding up and interrogating people. Some were whipped and forced to make animal noises. A video shows the R.S.F. rounding up men, and another clip shows them making kneeling men make animal noises. Other videos showed heavy clashes in the streets, as well as the bodies of fighters apparently killed in combat. Videos show R.S.F. troops fighting in the streets, as well as a body in the street. As the violence spreads, aid workers say civilians are fleeing west and to other parts of Darfur. Those going east have walked up to 180 miles in search of safety, often in temperatures reaching more than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. A map shows the route that many displaced people are taking away from El Fasher to the east and southeast, the direction from El Fasher not currently held by the R.S.F. A growing number of women say they were sexually assaulted on the journey.

Watching the arrivals is truly heart-wrenching, said a doctor with the aid group Care in East Darfur. A photo shows people evacuating El Fasher. As the International Criminal Court appeals for evidence of atrocities, the fighters are making little effort to hide their actions. In this video, a Rapid Support Forces patch is clearly visible. An R.S.F. patch is clearly visible in a video.

The Sudanese military, too, has faced accusations of war crimes, mostly for the indiscriminate bombing of civilian areas with artillery and airstrikes. On May 11, Doctors Without Borders said, the military bombed an area next to a childrens hospital.

Precipice of a massacre

The siege of El Fasher has disturbing echoes of Rapid Support Forces tactics elsewhere in Darfur, where assaults were accompanied by ethnic slaughter, experts say.

Last fall, when the fighters captured El Geneina, near Sudans border with Chad, as many as 15,000 people were killed in a matter of days, U.N. investigators found.

Now El Fasher residents fear a repeat.

This satellite imagery shows the destruction in El Geneina following the Rapid Support Forces assault on the city in October. Whole neighborhoods were razed, similar to the destruction in parts of southern and eastern El Fasher in recent months. Most victims in El Geneina came from ethnic African groups that have long been targeted by the Arab-dominated Rapid Support Forces. Note: 2024 imagery includes some imagery from the next month, in April. Source: Satellite imagery from Airbus via Google Earth

Longstanding ethnic tensions have underpinned the violence in Darfur for decades. Just as the Arab-dominated Janjaweed carried out a genocidal campaign against ethnic Africans in the 2000s, the Rapid Support Forces are targeting them now, with international warnings that a genocide could happen again.

In April, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the American ambassador to the U.N., warned that El Fasher was on the precipice of a large-scale massacre.

Aid supplies choked

El Fasher is not just a city under siege. It is also a hub for relief aid in a region hurtling toward famine.

Already 1.7 million people are starving in Darfur, the U.N. says. Now, the consequences of the war are rippling across the region, which is the size of Spain.

Food and medicine are running short in East Darfur, where tens of thousands fled the fighting, because the supply route through El Fasher has been cut off, aid workers say. And in Central Darfur, some food prices doubled after commercial traders could no longer operate, according to Islamic Relief, an aid group working there.

The crisis is compounded by a severe lack of funds. The United Nations issued an emergency appeal for $2.7 billion. It has received less than a fifth of that.

American officials accuse both sides in the civil war of using hunger as a weapon.

Commanders Accused of Crimes

Several R.S.F. commanders who led campaigns elsewhere in Sudan joined the fight for El Fasher, according to videos verified by The Times and the Sudan Witness Project. They include Ali Yagoub Gibril, the R.S.F. commander for Central Darfur state, who was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury in May for his role in violence that caused civilian casualties. He was killed on June 14, according to Sudans military.

Ali Yagoub Gibril (left) and Al Zeer Salem (right), another prominent R.S.F. commander, in two videos from El Fasher posted to social media.

Broadcasting the presence of prominent leaders signifies the importance of El Fasher to the R.S.F. But it could also demonstrate their responsibility for atrocities, said Matthew Gillett, a senior lecturer at the University of Essex who previously worked at international criminal courts.

Videos showing R.S.F. leaders in close proximity to attacks on civilians could help show the commanders awareness and command and control at the time, Mr. Gillett said, even if the attacks were committed by their subordinates.

The videos from El Fasher could become critical evidence in future trials for crimes in Darfur.
The residents of an Indian village recently called the police about a floating human body in their pond, but it turned out to be a man taking a nap and cooling off on a hot summer day.

To their credit, the people of Reddypuram Kovelakunta, a village in Indias Andhra Pradesh state, didnt immediately panic and call the police when they noticed a motionless human body in their pond. They tried calling out to it when they first spotted it, around 7 AM, but they got no answer, and seeing as the body didnt move until 12 PM, they finally decided to call the authorities. A police unit and emergency services rushed to the scene, where they indeed discovered a human body floating in the water. Only what looked like a corpse turned out to be an inebriated man napping in the water after a grueling 10-day work stint at a local quarry.

Photo: Pexels

A short clip posted online by investigative journalist Sudhakar Udumula shows one of the braver police officers walking in the water and pulling the body by an arm, only to have the floating man suddenly spring to life, surprised at all the attention. People around him can be heard bursting into laughter as the dead man struggles to make sense of what is happening.

The resurrected man told police that he had overindulged in a bit too much alcohol after 10 days of hard work in a nearby quarry, so he decided to go for a swim in the pond to cool off. Only he got tired pretty quickly and he nodded off in the water. He went into such a deep sleep that he never heard the people yelling at him from the waters edge.

Drunk Man Mistaken for Dead, Found Alive in Hanumakonda Pond Residents of Reddypuram Kovelakunta in Hanumakonda were taken aback today after discovering what they initially believed to be a dead body floating in the local pond.

The man, later identified as a quarry worker from pic.twitter.com/3koRv6iCai  Sudhakar Udumula (@sudhakarudumula) June 10, 2024

A similar video went viral a couple of years ago when a Bangkok man floating in a water canal was mistaken for a dead body. He only showed signs of life when someone jumped in the water and tried to grab his arm.
Ethan Lyle

Ethan Lyle, who most recently was head of business development for the Americas at Wachsman, comes on board at Avoq as general manager of the agencys New York office.

At Wachsman, which specializes in blockchain, crypto and fintech clients, Lyle was also overall co-lead for its Americas business. He oversaw the agencys corporate affairs and investor relations work as well.

Before coming to Wachsman, he was a VP at Teneo and worked at Kekst CNC and Ropes & Gray, in addition to serving as a field organizer in president Obamas 2008 campaign and a staffer in the Obama administrations Office of Management and Adminisration.

In his new post leading Avoqs New York operations, his areas of focus will include growth, team management and post-merger integration.

Avoq, which completed the merger of Subject Matter and Kivvit earlier this year, is a portfolio company of LA-based private equity firm Coral Tree Partners.
FIANNA Fail is this week beginning the search for a candidate who can retain the party seat in Offaly vacated by Barry Cowen.

A record of Oireachtas representation by the Cowen family going back to 1969 has ended with the election of the Clara TD to the European Parliament.

The vacancy in the Laois-Offaly constituency can be filled by a bye-election which must be called within six months of Mr Cowen taking his seat in Brussels which will not happen until the middle of July.

The bye-election might then not take place until 29 days after it is called, pushing the date possibly as far as February.

Alternatively, a general election could take place as soon as October or November, an option which now seems most likely.

The next general election will be run using the redrawn constituency boundaries so Offaly and Laois will both be stand-alone three-seaters instead of the five-seat Laois-Offaly arrangement currently in place

Two serving Fianna Fail councillors in Offaly who previously contested general elections today spoke about the possibilities which are opening up.

Cllr Eddie Fitzpatrick is a Cloneyhurke-based farmer who topped the poll in the Edenderry Electoral Area.

I'll seek the nomination definitely, said Cllr Fitzpatrick. He expects other Fianna Fail members to be interested in running.

I think it's an opportunity to seek it this time and see how things go. I don't know but I won't be on my own I'm sure.

Cllr Fitzpatrick also said a bye-election would not suit him because as it is currently constituted, the Laois-Offaly constituency excludes his nearest town, Portarlington, which is in Kildare South.

The councillor, who was a Progressive Democrat representative nearly 20 years ago before joining Fianna Fail, indicated that he would not be in favour of a candidate being selected from outside the party.

He said he was aware of one well known name being mentioned but stated: I don't know how that would go down. Bringing in someone, from an elected members' point of view, would not be great for people who have served the party for a number of years. But I don't know.

Shinrone's Cllr Peter Ormond said he will give the matter serious consideration over the next couple of weeks.

I'll be talking to my family and the members in the organisation and down in south Offaly to see is it something we should be doing. I'm going to take soundings over the next couple of weeks and make up my mind then on it, said Cllr Ormond, a poll-topper in the Birr Electoral Area.

In the 2020 general election Cllr Ormond received 4,073 first preference votes and remained in the race for a seat until his elimination on the seventh count.

I got a reasonable vote the last time but not enough and we have to see is there a way to build on that going forward and see is there a route to a seat. We'll have to look at the figures, said Cllr Ormond.

He was one of three candidates from south Offaly in that election. Cadamstown-based TD Carol Nolan was re-elected but the Fine Gael candidate, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy, lost out.

Cllr Ormond said identifying a Fianna Fail candidate will be given a thorough examination.

The important thing is there has been a [Fianna Fail] seat for a long time and whoever the person is, that they are able to retain that seat, whoever is chosen. Who ever is putting their name forward is going to have to come up with a plan that they can retain the seat.

There will be pressure on Fianna Fail on this occasion to nominate a new candidate from the Tullamore Electoral Area and Cllr Tony McCormack, who was re-elected to Offaly County Council, is known to be interested in a run for the Dail.

If the party does indeed opt for a candidate from the county town, Cllr Declan Harvey may also contest the nomination.

Fine Gael will see a three-seat Offaly constituency as an opportunity to regain the seat last held by Ms Corcoran Kennedy, and prior to her by Olwyn Enright and her father Tom from Birr.

Two councillors, John Clendennen in Kinnitty and Neil Feighery in Killoughey, are two potential candidates for the party.

Boosted by its success in some councils across the country and in the European Midlands North West constituency, where Ciaran Mullooly was elected, Independent Ireland will likely seek a seat, opening up the possibility of Fergus McDonnell's name going on the ballot paper.

The former Fianna Fail man regained a seat in the Edenderry Electoral Area for the new party and the retirement of John Foley, who ran for the Dail on several occasions, means there are votes available in north Offaly.

Sinn Fein will be encouraged by the support received in the Offaly County Council election where the party won a seat in each of the three electoral areas, Sean Maher, Birr, Claire Murray, Edenderry and Aoife Masterson, Tullamore.

Deputy Nolan won a seat for the party in 2016 but subsequently left Sinn Fein because of her opposition to abortion and was re-elected as an Independent in 2020.

She has said she will run again as an Independent in the next election.
BORD na Mona has said it will soon begin work on its Velo Rail Project which will see pedal-powered rail cars running at Lough Boora Discovery Park.

The velo rail is part of what the company says are several significant upgrades at the park to enhance the overall visitor experience.

Upgrades of the trail network have already been carried out in collaboration with Offaly County Council.

The Velo Rail Project includes a 4.1km loop along the existing Bord na Mona narrow gauge railway, offering new perspectives of the wetlands, sculpture park, wildlife, and biodiversity.

The company says it promises to be a unique attraction for visitors. Funding allocated to the Velo Rail project amounts to 445,000 through National Just Transition funding with Bord na Mona providing match funding of 120,000.

In a statement, Bord na Mona said that since November last year, a dedicated team has been overseeing an intensive maintenance programme throughout Lough Boora Discovery Park.

This programme will continue throughout 2024, ensuring that the park remains in optimum condition for all visitors. Bord na Mona is also investing an additional 250,000 to improve the overall visitor experience, upgrading orientation and wayfinding, thematic experiences and visitor facilities.

Lough Boora is home to some of the most innovative land and environmental sculptures in Ireland, inspired by the rich natural and industrial legacy of the bog lands, a series of large-scale sculptures are now part of the parks permanent collection. Bord na Mona and Offaly County Council are working collaboratively on the maintenance and repair of sculptures in the park, with Creative Ireland funding a maintenance programme.

New services have been introduced, with the award winning Ballycommon Bake House providing cafe services and Mid-Ireland Adventure offering bike hire, adding to the convenience and enjoyment of park visitors. These services are available from Wednesday to Sunday during the peak season and at weekends during the off-season. The main car park is open from 8am to 6pm and is free of charge.

Additional funding for upgrades to the park have been secured through several sources including the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, totalling 500,000, with required match funding by Bord na Mona. This project is focused on making the trail network around the core visitor hub area in the park fully accessible and inclusive, providing the local community a safe, quality and inclusive local recreation resource, but will also help to increase the number of visitors to Co Offaly and encourage greater dwell time and spend in the local economy.

Bord na Mona has recruited a dedicated recreation team to work full-time on trails (trail pictured below) and other projects within the park.

The company says the developments underscore Bord na Mona's commitment to providing exceptional local amenities and promoting outdoor recreation in the region.

Speaking on the announcement, Ger Breen, Head of Land & Habitats said: These upgrades at Lough Boora Discovery Park represent our ongoing commitment to enhancing visitor experiences and promoting sustainable tourism. Through our collaboration with Offaly County Council, we are not only preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the area but also creating new opportunities for adventure and exploration. The dedication of our team and partners ensures that Lough Boora Discovery Park will continue to be a valued destination for all.
Two leading members of the Green Party have stated they will support Offaly based Minister of State Pippa Hackett in the party's leadership race in the wake of Eamon Ryan's shock decision to step down.

Minister of State Ossian Smyth, speaking on RTE Radio' 1's Morning Ireland earlier today, said he would be supporting Ms Hackett.

He stressed that there will not be a coronation of the next leader.

The Dublin TD also said he would be willing to put himself forward for the position of deputy leader of the party.

Green Party Senator Pauline OReilly said she will also support Minister Hackett in the leadership race as she was the only one from outside Dublin.

Minister Hackett - , who is a Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture - has not declared her intentions yet but it is understood that support is growing for her candidacy with in the party.

Other candidates for the post are expected to announce their candidacy as the day progresses.

In a surprise development, Eamon Ryan said he was stepping down yesterday (Tuesday).

Green Party deputy leader Catherine Martin also announced that she would not be a candidate in the leadership race.

Figures expected to contest the leadership battle include Minister for Children Roderic O'Gorman and Minister of State Joe O'Brien as well as Minister Hackett.
FIFTH and Sixth class at Killeen National School in Birr, Co. Offaly received the Dynamic Designers for their JEP business, Bugsy the Boot Jack in the All-Island Junior Entrepreneur Programme Awards announced this week. The Dynamic Designers Award recognises original design and artwork that pupils create to make, brand and promote their products.

Inspired by the interests of the local community, including farming and horseriding, the children zoned in on the problem of removing mucky boots. They developed Bugsy the Boot Jack, a wooden boot jack in the shape of a rabbit, to help remove boots, wellies and shoes.

The production team created a template and enlisted parents to help cut out the timber pieces. The whole class rolled up their sleeves to make the finished product - they drew a Bugsy illustration on each piece and attached a stand on the back before sanding and varnishing the boot jack to make it ready for sale. The marketing and communications team designed a logo and created an Instagram page. Next, they made a promotional video ad with the help of the whole class. The sales team invited parents to a showcase day at the school where the boot jacks were on sale.

Making and finishing the product was very labour intensive, so the pupils decided to limit production to 70 pieces. They sold all 70 products and made a profit of 712. The class generously donated 500 of their profits to the Irish Cancer Society Volunteer Driver Service and put the balance towards a celebratory class trip to Dublin.

Thousands of Irish entrepreneurs have mentored 5th and 6th class primary school pupils while they create and launch mini businesses in their schools. Children are inspired by local entrepreneurs invited to the classroom to share their stories. EY Entrepreneur of the Year Alumni also volunteer their time to visit schools in their counties.

Marie Lynch, the co-founder and Managing Director of the Junior Entrepreneur Programme, said that over 12,000 Irish primary school children have launched classroom businesses this year as part of their participation in the Junior Entrepreneur Programme. Leveraging their combined talents and innate creativity with the skills they develop on the programme, they work together as a class to create original products and launch a real business from the classroom. JEP has become a rite of passage for children in primary schools before they move on to secondary school. The class develops a lasting bond by working together to experience real-world success. For many, it is the highlight of their primary school years, she added.

The Junior Entrepreneur Programme is a real-life, immersive entrepreneurship skills programme for 5th and 6th-class primary schoolchildren; it nurtures confidence, resilience, creativity, problem-solving and teamwork and engages pupils of all abilities. It is offered free of charge to schools on the island of Ireland.

The programme started in Kerry in 2010. Over 112,000 pupils have participated in the programme since its foundation. The businesses created by the participating pupils have achieved sales of over 3 million. Profits belong to the participating class who frequently opt to donate a proportion to charity. JEP was co-founded by entrepreneur Jerry Kennelly to promote entrepreneurship in primary schools and was developed in collaboration with Mary Immaculate College, Limerick.

Enterprise Ireland has supported JEP since 2020 under its Primary Schools Entrepreneurship Initiative, underlining the vital role of entrepreneurship in shaping Irelands future and the commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial culture from an early age.
Get the smile you have always wanted at Bowe Orthodontic Care  Offalys newest specialist orthodontic practice.

With over 10 years experience Bowe Orthodontic Care are delighted to announce that they are now open and taking bookings in their new state of the art premises at Bridge Street, Birr.

Dr John Bowe B.A. B. DENT. SC (TCD), MFD RCSI, D.CLIN.DENT (ORTHODONTICS)

UCC, M.ORTH RCSED, DIP CON. SED. (KINGS), B.ED. is a registered dentist and dental specialist in Orthodontics with the Dental Council of Ireland.

Dr Bowe and his team aim to achieve the optimum smile for their patients. Since opening, patients have benefited from Johns meticulous attention to detail and his conscientious approach to his work, which is carried out to the highest of standards.

In Bowe Orthodontic Care, said Dr Bowe, there are different types of braces, and we have the experience to know what will work best for you and your lifestyle.

Following an initial consultation, we develop a bespoke treatment plan tailored to each patients individual needs and wishes

explains Dr Bowe.

Dr Bowes journey to qualifying as an orthodontic specialist began when he studied Dentistry in Trinity College Dublin.

Thereafter, he completed his doctorate in Orthodontics in University College Cork. Orthodontics is like a vocation for Dr Bowe, and he brings much knowledge and energy to his job.

There is a tremendous professional satisfaction in improving the smiles of our patients, he said. When we achieve great results and patients attain their desired outcome, there is a real sense of pride that we have been able to make a difference and that, in many cases, we have also been able to contribute to an increase in patients self-confidence too.

Bowe Orthodontic Care boasts the very best in orthodontic equipment, including an intra-oral scanner. Traditionally, impressions or moulds were made of patients mouths to fabricate appliances etc.

With the intra-oral scanner, explained Dr Bowe, we take a 3D image of the mouth, and this image is sent to the lab. The lab then makes the patients appliance and sends it back to the practice ready to fit. Intra-oral scanning reduces the need for the traditional impressions.

Another excellent piece of dental imaging equipment at Bowe Orthodontic Care is a CBCT x-ray machine which provides high quality images of the patients' teeth using ultra-low doses of radiation.

Early orthodontic care is important, and Dr Bowe recommends that children have their first evaluation around the age of eight.

By evaluating your child's teeth at a young age, a specialist orthodontist can identify problems such as misaligned bites, overcrowded teeth, and jaw growth discrepancies. Early detection allows for timely intervention, which can simplify and shorten the treatment process.

Treatments like expanders can guide the growth of the jaw to ensure that there is enough space for permanent teeth to come in correctly. This can prevent the need for more invasive procedures later.

Convenience is another reason to choose Bowe Orthodontic Care. They can see you after school for routine appointments. Early morning and Saturday appointments can also be scheduled.

Unlike many other orthodontic practices, you can begin your treatment soon after your initial consultation. There is free car parking, on site. To help spread the cost of your braces and make your treatment affordable Bowe Orthodontic Care offers interest free payment plans.

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OFFALY-based junior minister Pippa Hackett has announced she is running for leadership of the Green Party.

In a move which was expected today, the Geashill farmer confirmed her bid for the job while speaking on Newstalk radio.

The Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture said she will bring the party in a fresh new direction.

Asked about her own prospects for election to the Dail, Hackett, who is a member of the Seanad, said winning seats will be difficult for all Green Party candidates.

Im in the mix there as much as anybody, she said.

When he stepped down from the leadership yesterday Minister Eamon Ryan said he regretted that a narrative had taken hold that the Greens were not concerned with rural Ireland.

This has led to speculation that for the first time the Greens will look outside Dublin for a new leader.

Minister Roderic OGorman, a Dublin-based TD, said that while Minister Hackett lives in a rural constituency, voters decide on the basis of party policy.

The Integration Minister added: I recognised our message isnt resonating in rural Ireland.

Minister OGorman then said: I listen to the people, the strong rural voices in my party, I listen to Pippa.

Several Green Party Oireachtas members had supported Minister Hacketts for the leadership in advance of her announcement.

Brian Leddin TD, Limerick, said he has spoken to her and encouraged her to run.

Deputy Leddin said the Greens must not be Dublin centric and the party now needs to look outside Dublin.

She's a beef farmer herself," he said.

A Dublin-based junior minister, Ossian Smyth, has also backed Minister Hackett, as has Senator Pauline OReilly, Galway, the partys chair.

Deputy Marc O Cathasaigh Waterford, Patrick Costello TD, Dublin and Minister of State Malcolm Noonan have publicly backed Minister OGorman.

If there is a contest the position of leader will be voted on by Green Party members.

Pippa Hackett, a native of Co Mayo, is married to Geashill man Mark Hackett and they run an organic farm in Offaly.

Eamon Ryan was instrumental in Hackett joining the Green Party and in 2019 she became the first ever Green to be elected to Offaly County Council when she won a seat in the Edenderry Electoral Area.

She subsequently won a seat in the Seanad when a bye-election took place to fill the vacancy caused by the election of Grace OSullivan to the European Parliament.

She failed to win a Dail seat in the 2020 general election missing out on the final seat in the last count in Laois-Offaly but returned to the Seanad and was then appointed as a Minister of State in the Department of Agriculture by Eamon Ryan.

She was also given a seat at the cabinet table as a so-called super junior and while she attends the meetings of Government she does not have a vote at them.

Her husband Mark was co-opted to her seat on the County Council but he was not elected in the June 7 poll and the party once again has no seat on the Offaly local authority.

The election of Barry Cowen to the European Parliament has created a Dail vacancy which will either be filled by a bye-election or a general election but the Green Party faces an uphill battle.
Aloha Bar takes you on a virtual trip to Hawaii, in the realm of amazing winning opportunities as the latest slot from SYNOT Games hits online casinos.

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Show Off Your Supplies: Dymo Label Maker

(Image by queercatkitten from flickr) Details DMCA



"It is time to require a surgeon general's warning label on social media platforms," Vivek Murthy writes in a New York Times op-ed, "stating that social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents."

An incredibly dumb idea, but it enjoys a certain amount of public attention because Vivek Murthy's day job is with the federal government as (checks notes) surgeon general.

If Murthy wants a "warning label" on something, why not just order it instead of whining about it in the Times? Two reasons:

The first is that he can't just order it. The office of surgeon general doesn't come with a label maker. He only gets one if Congress gives him one.

The other is that his op-ed isn't about "protecting children" or "the public health." It's about grandstanding on a current moral panic so as to associate the name "Vivek Murthy," in the public consciousness, with "protecting children" and "the public health."

As his second surgeon general stint likely nears its end, Murthy's obviously trying to burnish his "public intellectual" credentials for a more successful return to the not-so-private sector. Instead of reprising his previous four years in the TV talking head / non-fiction book authorship (Together: The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World) wilderness between the Obama and Biden administrations, he's presumably hoping for a steadier gig with a larger paycheck -- at MSNBC, perhaps, or CNN.

"Protecting children" and "the public health" are to political demagoguery as Gallagher's tricycle or Steve Martin's "arrow through the head" are to stand-up comedy.

Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on how you one looks at it, "warning labels" do little to discourage, and may even encourage, the behaviors they "warn" about.

I started smoking as a teen, a couple of decades after Congress let the surgeon general Luther Terry borrow its label maker for use on cigarettes in 1964. The next person I meet who's my age and claims to have never taken up smoking because of those warning labels will be the first. Ineffectual.

As for encouragement, anyone paying attention knows that kids actively seek out music, movies, etc. with "mature content" warning labels. Those labels essentially serve as "this is the good stuff" advertising for the products they appear on.

The only valuable prospective use for "warning labels" on social media platforms is as an "I made that happen" item on Murthy's resume. Kids looking for an "I'm edgy" thrill would treat the "warning labels" as endorsements; parents inclined to panic over their kids' use of TikTok or Instagram would do so with or without Murthy's assistance.

In the meantime, there's that pesky constitutional prohibition on compelled speech. Congress shouldn't ignore it, but probably will.
By Robert Weiner and Kailynn Bannon

One of the main concerns voters have entering the 2024 election is Donald Trump's and Joe Biden's age. Trump, 77, and Biden, 81, have both been criticized by Republicans and Democrats alike. This discrimination of older individuals presents questions not only of sound science, but societal ageism and legal limitations of employment age discrimination acts.

When the Congress passed the Age Discrimination in Employment Act Amendments in 1977, 359-2 in House and 89-10 in Senate, Rep. Claude Pepper and President Carter met at the White House with the House Select Committee on Aging.

"Ageism is as odious as racism or sexism," Pepper said.

The bill was signed into law on April 6, 1978 after receiving support from President Carter. One of the amendments passed was the abolishment of all mandatory age-based retirement or employment discrimination in the federal government. In addition to no Constitutional upper limit prohibition, the same law should be the message for the upcoming presidential election.

Since Trump is only about three years younger than Biden, the Republican media has clearly figured out how to put Trump in a better light.

When the Age Discrimination in Employment Act was originally put into place in 1967, it was to ensure that workers over the age of 40 had an equal opportunity to retain and regain jobs.

If the government were to create a nearly impossible amendment that puts an age limit on the presidency, it would judge a candidate based only on their age rather than their potential to carry out the job.

Age discrimination exists for the younger generations too. Deon Tedder was only 33 when sworn into the Senate District 42, making him the youngest person in the South Carolina Senate. He was endorsed by Congressman Jim Clyburn and announced his campaign for reelection.

Even though these laws were put into action decades ago, ageism is one of the more widely abused forms of discrimination.

"Ageism is really one of the last acceptable 'isms' that society tolerates," said Heather Tinsley-Fix, a senior adviser at AARP, for USA Today. "We're generally speaking of a society that really values youth, not only physically, but in these beliefs that everything good is young."

Similar to sexism and racism, ageism discriminates against someone based on something they can't control, and solely relies on the age of a person without proof of their work ability. With the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, everyone in the workplace is given equal opportunity on the basis of age.

Voters' fears stem from the concern that older age will affect how equipped both candidates are to lead the country. However, science shows that age does not directly coordinate with cognitive decline.

For example, last year Clyburn was named one of the Biden campaign's national co-chairs. Even at 83 years old, Clyburn is effective at portraying facts and history often on television.

Aging often leads to difficulty with memory recall, articulation and mixing up proper nouns. These are all normal signs of an aging brain, and do not relate to a person's ability to function or perform tasks. That's why those elected for president have long had their physical and mental abilities tested rather than an evaluation based on age.

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Unlike parliamentary systems where the governing party can call an election whenever it chooses as it commands a voting majority, the US system actually mandates when an election is held ... every four years on "the Tuesday next after the first Monday in November." This year it falls on November 5th.

This year the Democratic party candidate is Joe Biden, who promised last time, given his age, that he would not seek a second term ... but then everyone realizes the value of an election promise.



On the Republican side is 'heir-presumptive', Donald Trump, who has yet to announce his vice-presidential running mate. According to him, he knows but is keeping it secret until the Republican convention in August.



A master of publicity, Trump's strategy has merit for the choice-to-be is being debated even in far-away Britain ... in the conservative weekly 'The Spectator' (May 18, 2024, p. 13).



Things have changed of late. The guilty verdict in Trump's "hush money" trial means some restrictions. He can no longer vote but, believe it or not, he can still run for president. In fact there is a precedent: Socialist Party presidential candidate Eugene Debs won 3.4 percent of the popular vote while he was in prison on sedition charges for opposing publicly the WW1 draft.

Some countries may not admit convicted felons as visitors but in Trump's case, particularly if he is elected, the appropriate ministry is likely to waive the rules.

Fighting an election against Joe Biden might appear to be like challenging a smoked kipper but he can be roused, and is a seasoned campaigner. Also a Trump bid is most certainly going to liven-up the election.

Trump hates to lose and is ready for revenge. It means he is likely to add personal funds to his presidential bid. On the president's side, Hunter Biden and his problems with the law will most certainly not be a positive.



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Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator

On June 12, three Russian ships and a nuclear-powered submarine will arrive in Havana, Cuba. While crossing the Atlantic, the ships performed maneuvers designed to enhance military capability, and are scheduled to remain in Cuba through June 17.

Recently, President Vladimir Putin made a threat to supply unspecified countries with weapons capable of striking Kyiv's Western allies.

The Kazan nuclear-powered submarine is capable of firing Kalibr cruise missiles, which have a range of up to 2,500 kilometers and can be equipped with nuclear warheads. Along for the ride are the Frigate Admiral Gorshkov, which is carrying new hypersonic Tsirkon missiles that are nuclear-capable, the Akademik Pashin refueling tanker, and Nikolay Chiker tugboat.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has portrayed Zircon as a potent weapon capable of penetrating any existing antimissile defenses by flying nine times faster than the speed of sound at a range of more than 1,000km (more than 620 miles).

While the visit to Cuba is not seen as a military threat to the US, and none of the vessels carry a nuclear war-head, it has brought back memories of the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis involving the US and Russia in Cuba.

Cuba is Russia's most important partner in the Western Hemisphere from a geopolitical point of view, and both are critical of the US sanctions imposed on each other, and the enlargement of NATO. Havana also backed Russia's right to "self-defense" against NATO following its 2022 military operation in Ukraine.

In 1959, an uprising called the "26th of July Movement" led to the communist rule under the leadership of Fidel Castro in Cuba.

In April 1961, a group of 1,500 Cuban exiles opposed to Castro invaded Cuba supported by artillery, mortars, tanks aircrafts and naval ships, all of which was provided and financed by the US. This was one of a series of 'regime change' operations carried out by the US which failed, such as the 2011 US-NATO attack on Syria.

This incident came to be known as the Bay of Pigs invasion.

Early 1961 saw the American Jupiter missiles being deployed in Turkey and mid-April saw the failed Bay of Pigs invasion. This had the USSR worried as it saw the US planning something big.

Nikita Khrushchev of the USSR and Castro held a clandestine meeting in July 1962, and Khrushchev agreed to deploy nuclear missiles in Cuba.

US President John F. Kennedy was informed of the plans, and was advised to carry out an airstrike and invasion of Cuba, but he disregarded that advice and instead negotiated a deal that saw the USSR shelving its plans to deploy nuclear missiles in Cuba in exchange for an American assurance that Cuba would not be invaded.

The US policy of increased NATO membership from 1992 onwards has brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. In 1990, the US gave assurances to Mikhail Gorbachev that NATO would not expand, but US President Bill Clinton broke that promise, and we are faced with the realization that it was the US that provoked Putin to the February 2022 military operation in Ukraine in response to the threat of imminent NATO membership.

It took the negotiating skills of Kennedy to avert war in 1962, but today the US is led by President Joe Biden who is against ceasefire negotiations in both Ukraine and Gaza. Biden is a war-time President, who directly participates in both battlefields with funds, weapons, intelligence and the propaganda cranked out in Washington, which invented a narrative that Putin wants to conquer Ukraine and recreate a Soviet Empire.

In 2014, John J. Mearsheimer, a University of Chicago professor and one of the leading proponents of restraint in American foreign policy, explained why the Ukraine crisis is the west's fault, and how it has provoked Putin.

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"For far too long, the charter school industry has overstepped its power in LAUSD and our school board has not conducted the necessary oversight."



-- - LAUSD Candidate Karla Griego



Photo by Bermix Studio on Unsplash

(Image by Bermix Studio) Details DMCA



For decades the Charter School Industry has controlled the LAUSD School Board preventing any meaningful oversight of these publicly funded private schools. The result has been unpaid debt to the taxpayers, the theft of public funds, sudden closures, and a threat to student safety. The balance of the Board changed after the 2022 elections when Dr. Rocio Rivas' victory in Board District 2 flipped the seat formerly held by Charter School apologist Monica Garcia.

While there were hopes for a radical change in the district's approach to regulation, the new majority took a more conservative approach. Most notably, the issue of inequity in how campus space is shared under PROP 39 has been addressed with great fanfare. However, nothing has been done to remove California Charter School Association (CCSA) staffer Jose' Cole-Gutie'rrez as the Director of the Charter School Division even after he was caught lying to the Board. Under Cole-Gutie'rrez's leadership, no school in the last two years has been forced to shut down by the District due to operational deficiencies, failure to achieve academic results, or financial mismanagement.

Despite the lack of radical change, the Charter School Industry complains that it "has never faced headwinds so stiff." As a result, there were no applications to open new charter schools this school year. The number of charter schools operating in the LAUSD has declined as the industry faces an 11% decline in enrollment. These closures have even impacted larger charter school chains like KIPP SoCal Public (sic) Schools, which is closing three campuses.

The Charter School Industry was built on the premise that competition within education would increase outcomes. Instead, it has harmed neighborhood schools as funding was diverted to schools operating without proper oversight. The promised academic gains failed to materialize.

As its schools fight for survival, the industry now complains about the competition it once heralded. "It's gone from an atmosphere of collaboration to one of competition," complained one operator. Public schools affected by the encroachment of charter schools never felt like there was a spirit of collaboration.

Charter Schools will try to reverse the gains in accountability in November's election by spending millions of dollars to elect candidates supportive of the privatization of public education. With Tanya Ortiz-Frankin already securing re-election, the charters only have to win one of the three undecided elections.

To gauge the candidates' commitment to meaningful Charter School oversight, they were asked the following questions:

So far, only Karla Griego in the Board District 5 race has provided answers. Her detailed answers can be found HERE.

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.
Like many SCOTUS rulings, this outcome turned on neither the plain text and meaning of the US Constitution (under which the ban was clearly illegal) nor common sense (under which the ban was clearly idiotic -- everyday objects as mundane as belt loops and rubber bands can be used as "bump stocks").

Instead, the court ruled (in the negative) on the question of whether the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives has the power to magically change the definition of the term "machine gun" on the whim of the president.

I'd rather SCOTUS had just upheld the plain text and unambiguous meaning of the Second Amendment (under which laws against "machine guns" are void whether the term includes "bump stocks" or not), but close enough for government work, I guess.

Perhaps the most useful outcome of the ruling is its tendency to highlight Donald Trump's actual record on gun rights as he seeks a second term in the White House.

In February, Trump assured National Rifle Association members that he was "the best friend gun owners have ever had in the White House. ... During my four years ... there was great pressure on me having to do with guns. We did nothing. We didn't yield. ... Your Second Amendment will always be safe with me as your president."

In the wake of the SCOTUS ruling, his campaign's national press secretary, Karoline Leavitt asserted that "[t]he Court has spoken and their decision should be respected," assuring the public that Trump "has been and always will be a fierce defender of Americans' Second Amendment rights."

But back in 2018, when he was still actually the president, Trump told the public at a news conference: "We're knocking out bump stocks. I've told the NRA ... bump stocks are gone."

And back in 2018, then-president Trump, addressing lawmakers in support of "red flag" laws, came out against not just the Second Amendment but the Fifth Amendment as well: "I like taking the guns early .... Take the guns first, go through due process second."

His 2018 actions speak louder than his 2024 words -- and highlight the larger problem the Republican Party ran into when it gave its 2016 presidential nomination to a life-long progressive Democrat for president in an (unsuccessful) attempt to out-authoritarian the Democratic Party on immigration.

For all his self-promoting "outsider" guff, Trump's a typical politician: On the campaign trail, he pretends to be whoever and whatever he thinks his supporters want him to be; once in office, he tends to revert to his true form.

Never trust a politician (any politician) to protect your rights (any of your rights). Thus endeth the lesson.
Growing up in a hardware store, Greg Mahler saw his familys business as his own personal playground.

As a child he made forts with the boxes in the back storage room, and some of his earliest memories are of his father softly tearing strips out of catalogs to order supplies.

Last week, Hoys Hardware in Sweet Home celebrated 85 years of business. It first was established in 1939 at the tail end of the Great Depression. For Mahler  the stores owner, a current city councilor and former Mayor  its a time of reflection and appreciation.

I love even the smell of a hardware store, Mahler said.

The store has a sort of nostalgic scent of paint being mixed and keys being made. He walks through the aisles with ease with his wife, Terry Mahler, as they switch from helping customers inside the store to managing the festivities of the businesss 85th anniversary with vendors and sales.

We love our community, its tightly knit and its important to take care of our legacy, Terry Mahler said.

That legacy started when Ivan Hoy founded the hardware store in downtown Sweet Home. When Greg Mahlers father, John Mahler, came to Sweet Home in 1971 with plans for his family to move to the town, he intended to buy the store. The pair shook on the deal.

After moving into town, he went back to settle the deal and asked Hoy if a contract needed to be worked up for the purchase of the business. Hoy replied that it wasnt necessary, that they shook hands and there wasnt anything else to it, Greg Mahler said.

He was a man of integrity and honesty, Greg Mahler said.

His father continued to carry that torch, he said. In 1973, John Mahler purchased two acres at 3041 Main St. and constructed a 6,000-square-foot building. They proudly kept the name Hoys, he said.

Greg Mahler grew up in that hardware store before he officially took over the business in 2020 when his father retired.

He remembers there being a paint store next door to their hardware store, but the two businesses were never in competition. If someone asked for something they didnt have his father would check the warehouse, somewhat of a joke he and the surrounding businesses had where they would grab supplies from each other to hand to their customers, he said.

I always wanted to emulate (my father), Greg Mahler said. I followed in his footsteps.

Both he and his father served on the city council, volunteered at the local fire district and oversaw the family business.

One Thanksgiving he remembers opening the store  which was closed for the holiday  for a customer whose pipes broke and wasnt able to cook their Thanksgiving dinner, he said.

Carla Claasen (left) is a former employee of Hoy's Hardware and has stopped in during the 85th Anniversary Celebration and Sale to shop and say hello to Terry Mahler (right).Jess Hume-Pantuso/Corvallis Gazette-Times

The store functions on a philosophy of exceptional customer service, he said. Its what won them the awards and trophies that sit in their back office.

We live here, we work here, we serve here, Terry Mahler said.

Traces of the history are hidden throughout the store. There are yardsticks that date back to a time when phone numbers were only three digits long, green and white shelving John Mahler built and a safe from when the business first opened that contains a ledger and other memorabilia.

Through the years, the business has changed quite a bit, said Terry Mahler. Theyve added services and now take up space that has expanded to 22,000 square feet.

In 2012, the store became part of the franchise ACE Hardware. But the store still bears its original name Hoys Hardware with red letters at the stores front, with the addition of ACE between the two words.

Old photographs reveal the changing configuration of the store. Some show Greg Mahler in a gorilla suit during Halloween or as Santa Claus around Christmas, interacting with customers in the store.

Times werent always easy though, Greg Mahler said. When Walmart set up shop in Lebanon in the 1980s, they saw their business decline, he said.

In the 90s we suffered immensely, but the community has been good to us, he said.

When times were tough, they leaned on the community, he said, recalling when community members volunteered to move freight.

The 85th anniversary celebration, in part, was a way to a recognize how far the business has come because of the community, Terry Mahler said.

Greg Mahler fell back on the words of Hoy, where it all began: When you take care of the community, the community takes care of you.

Jess Hume-Pantuso contributed to this article.



Shayla Escudero, Shayla.Escudero@lee.net
This post has been updated.

An unidentified woman has reunited a downtown Portland church with its stolen tabernacle after finding it discarded in a dumpster.
Ronald J. Gaul made his living selling salvaged shoes, purses and other leather goods on roadsides near Portland International Airport.

Gaul, who lived out of a truck with a hand-painted Yosemite Sam and the words Just Kickin It decorating the sides, made a brisk business that way, according to his father and a friend.
Cicoria, the Midwestern tavern pizzeria from Submarine Hospitality co-founder Joshua McFadden, will close on Saturday, June 29, marking the latest setback for Sortis Holdings, the group now known as SoHi Brands.

The decision to cease operations has been driven by the increasingly challenging market conditions that have made it difficult to sustain the restaurant, the company announced in a press release. The team at Cicoria expresses deep gratitude to its loyal customers, dedicated staff, and the entire community for their unwavering support.

SoHi Brands hopes to install a new concept in the space next door to flagship restaurant Ava Genes.

Taking over the former Roman Candle Bakery in 2019, McFadden sought to channel the thin-crust pizzas he grew up eating in Wisconsin, only here using locally milled grains and farm fresh produce. McFadden tapped Daniel Green, the baker who would go on to create Cafe Ollis impressive pizza menu, to develop the dough. (Green, now head chef at Baumans Cider, 930 S.E. Oak St., plans to add pizza to the cider tasting rooms menu later this month, a spokesperson recently confirmed.)

Though most restaurants struggled to make it through Oregons initial 2020 freeze on indoor dining, Cicoria was a rare bright spot, launching that March  two months before its planned opening date  with a core group of management remaining after McFadden and then-partner Luke Dirks laid off 95% of Submarine Hospitalitys staff. The first time I ordered a Cicoria pizza, I was asked to park in the restaurants Southeast Division Street lot, where an employee placed two pizza boxes directly into my trunk.

The pizza was good. It was still good when I tried it again in late 2021, after the pizzeria finally opened its brick-and-mortar with white tiles and large photos of famous Chicagoland figures on the wall. In 2022, Cicoria  along with Cafe Olli, Dimos Apizza, Jerrys Pizza, Pizza Thief, and others  were named on The Oregonians list of Portlands best new pandemic-time pizzerias. But by that point, Submarine management had imploded, and McFadden was on the verge of selling to Sortis Holdings, an investment firm that began buying well-known Portland brands during the depths of the pandemic.

Now known as SoHi Brands, the groups website lists a portfolio of Pacific Northwest hotels, restaurants, cafes and and barber shops that includes Bamboo Sushi, Rudys, Sizzle Pie, Water Avenue Coffee and Portlands former Ace Hotel, itself recently rebranded as The Clyde by Kasa. When a deal to purchase the larger Ace Hotel chain fell through last year, the Sortis ship began to wobble, soon leaving behind a trail of failed deals, angry business partners and landlords clamoring for their rent, according to a 2023 report.

Those issues appear to have persisted. Last week, The Oregonian reported that the company had closed the last remaining location of See See Motor Coffee Co., a once-popular coffee shop chain with a motorcycle theme.

Cicoria plans to close its doors at 3377 S.E. Division St. for good on Saturday, June 29.

 Michael Russell; mrussell@oregonian.com

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Advocates for immigrants in Oregon say President Bidens executive action on Tuesday to extend citizenship paths to certain undocumented residents could help an estimated 8,000 people in the state.

Reyna Lopez, executive director of Oregon farmworkers union Pineros y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste, said that the announcement comes as a relief to her members.
Kate Brown

Brown, who served as governor of Oregon from 2015 to 2023, is president of Willamette Falls Trust. She previously served as Oregon secretary of state as well as a legislator in both the Oregon House and Oregon Senate.

As the former governor of Oregon, Ive seen every corner of this beautiful state. It was only until recently, however, that I truly witnessed the magnificence of Willamette Falls, the second largest waterfall by volume in North America.

For more than 150 years this place, revered by Northwest tribes and steeped in history, has largely been inaccessible to the public. While tribal members have fished salmon and lamprey and gathered native plants and materials at the falls since time immemorial, most people have never had an opportunity to hear the powerful rush of the water, watch a heron hunt at mid-morning, or see and understand what Willamette Falls means to our collective past, present and future.

This is why, after taking more than a year off from three decades of public service, I am honored and humbled to have been selected as president of Willamette Falls Trust. I believe Willamette Falls should be known regionally, nationally and globally as the eighth wonder of Oregon, alongside the Columbia River Gorge, Crater Lake and Mt. Hood.

Willamette Falls deserves a bigger spotlight on its role in Oregons story. The falls represented the home of tribal villages and provided a space for numerous tribal ceremonies and trade. It is a monument to the final destination of pioneers who traveled the Oregon Trail. And it provided the location of the first long-distance transmission of electricity in the United States, turning on streetlights in Portland from the hydropower plant at the falls.

For well over a century, industrial activities have obscured Willamette Falls from view and access. While these industries benefited the regions economy greatly, these activities created ecological impacts and displaced communities from a place of deep meaning. The Willamette Falls Inter-Tribal Public Access Project aims to heal some of these historical missteps. Located on the west side of the river, this Indigenous-led project envisions public pathways, viewing structures, spaces for interpretation, cultural events, community programming and other public amenities.

Its an ambitious vision, but one that is achievable, through collaboration.

Weve already seen the community come together for such an initiative. While governor, I advocated for the funding and development of the Rose Quarter Improvement Project, which begins to address the harm caused to the historic Albina community when Interstate 5 was constructed, consequently displacing Black families and disconnecting historic neighborhoods and communities.

Some said it was too late to remedy this harm. I disagreed.

My administration negotiated a compromise that met the needs of the Albina Vision Trust, members of the Black community, Metro, Multnomah County and the city of Portland. As a result, our congressional delegation delivered a $500 million federal investment for this project, the largest of its kind in the nation. Today, we are well on our way toward turning the vision into a reality that begins to restore justice for the Albina community, improves transit and substantially reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

Today, as president of Willamette Falls Trust, my team and I will focus on securing the private and public funding necessary to make the Willamette Falls Inter-Tribal Public Access Project a reality  a project in which we are all invested  and I will work to overcome the inevitable obstacles using the strong relationships Ive developed throughout the local, state and federal levels.

Key to this project, and I believe key to Oregons long-term future, is the leadership and collaboration with the regions tribes. Coordinated by the trust, the project is led by a team that includes Tribal Council Members and appointees from several sovereign nations, including the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs. Through this historic display of voluntary inter-tribal collaboration and community support, we can accomplish our goals.

Since my first legislative committee appointment to the Legislative Commission on Indian Services, I worked successfully with Oregons nine federally recognized tribes to address the impacts of colonialism. Together, we passed legislation to ensure that curriculum in Oregon public schools reflects the comprehensive Native American experience in Oregon, funded a $19 million scholarship for Oregons tribal students to attend the post high school of their choice, created a Task Force on Oregon Tribal Cultural Items and included additional tribal members to boards and commissions and to our courts.

I stand ready to assist this collective work dedicated to healing these historical wrongs and forever securing this sacred place so that future generations can enjoy the stunning beauty of the Willamette Falls.

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Open School East, a nonprofit alternative school in Southeast Portland, is the final hope of many students struggling to complete high school. Many have learning differences and come from low-income families. OSE accepts students from Portland Public Schools and five other school districts, including Gresham-Barlow, Reynolds, Centennial, David Douglas and Parkrose. There is an exceptional student-teacher-counselor ratio, and the small class size is imperative to the success of students with social anxiety and/or a need for individual instruction.

As is often the case in our society, we eliminate or adjust a successful program in order to save money now. We disregard the future costs and strain on society that results when we throw these young women and men under the bus. In May, Open School President Kimberlee Pierce Sheng announced that financial issues, including the state not fully funding public education, would necessitate the elimination of six staff positions out of approximately 17 teachers and mental health professionals.
Cairo, Egypt (PANA) - The Egyptian authorities must immediately cease the mass arbitrary arrests and unlawful deportations of Sudanese refugees who had crossed the border into Egypt seeking refuge from the conflict in Sudan, Amnesty International said today, in a new report published ahead of World Refugee Day which falls on Thursday
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Political Affairs and Acting Head of the United Nations Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), Stephanie Khoury, will on Wednesday give her first briefing to the UN Security Council on the latest developments in the situation in the North African country, which is experiencing a deadlock in its political process, perpetuating a politico-military crisis that has exacerbated its instability
Sappi to Install Second e-Boiler at Maastricht Paper Mill in the Netherlands

June 19, 2024 - Sappi announced that it is investing in the installation of a second e-boiler at its Maastricht paper mill in the Netherlands.

According to Sappi, preparations at the mill are already underway for the new e-boiler, with delivery and commissioning planned for the end of 2025.

In 2021, Sappi invested in the modernization of its steam generation boiler at the Maastricht mill to reduce CO2 emissions. Part of the mill's gas-generated steam was replaced by electric steam via the new e-boiler. The electricity used is generated mainly from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, and the innovative technology has proven to be very successful.

"We are delighted that we initiated the investment in a second e-boiler after the successful implementation of the first e-boiler in 2021," said Ferdinand Koster, Mill Director at Sappi Maastricht Mill. "We expect the two new e-boilers to reduce CO2 emissions  in line with Scope 1 and 2  by 14% by 2026 and as much as 30% by 2030."

Sappi noted that when the second 20 megawatt e-boiler starts up in November 2025, it will further boost the mill's unique ability to switch between natural gas and renewable energy sources - to generate the heat the mill needs to create steam for its paper machines.

"This ability to flex and switch is important because renewable energy in the Netherlands largely relies on unpredictable wind and solar. Not only does flexing ensure that the mill maintains power at times of low renewable energy availability, but it also means that, at other times, the mill can contribute to stabilizing the wider electricity grid for other users," the company said.

Bram Goorts, Manager Power Plant & Waste Water Treatment at Maastricht Mill added, "When the national grid operator has a good supply of power, we can turn down our gas turbine and turn up our e-boilers. But when the grid operator has a shortage of power, we can help by turning up our gas turbine and turning down the e-boilers. This can all be achieved thanks to the innovative e-boiler and CHP integration into the automated Frequency Restoration Reserve system. Either way, the full activation time is only five minutes."

Maastricht Mill produces coated woodfree paper and paperboard varying in grammage from 200 to 400 g/m2. The mill's production capacity is 260,000 tons per year.

Headquartered in Brussels (Belgium), Sappi Europe is the leading European producer of coated graphic papers as well as packaging and speciality papers with eight mills, 12 sales offices and 4,630 employees.

Sappi is a leading global provider of sustainable woodfibre products and solutions in the fields of dissolving pulp, printing papers, packaging and speciality papers, casting and release papers, biomaterials and bio-energy.

SOURCE: Sappi
Valmet to Supply Metsa Tissue with Two Complete Tissue Paper Production Lines in Sweden

Valmet's delivery includes two Valmet Perini Constellation tissue converting lines, along with the packaging machinery needed for the production of rolled tissue. Valmet's delivery includes two Valmet Perini Constellation tissue converting lines, along with the packaging machinery needed for the production of rolled tissue.

June 19, 2024 - Valmet will supply two complete tissue converting lines including packaging solutions to Metsa Tissue's mill in Mariestad, Sweden. The delivery includes digital services, training and support after the start-up.

The value of the order will not be disclosed.

The delivery includes two Valmet Perini Constellation tissue converting lines, along with the packaging machinery needed for the production of rolled tissue. The machinery represents latest technology for efficiency, flexibility, and low energy consumption.

The order follows the earlier announced delivery of a Valmet Advantage DCT 200 tissue making line to the same mill.

Both deliveries are part of Metsa Tissue's expansion and modernization project "The Future Mill", aiming at world-class environmental and operational performance.

"We have a long history with Valmet and with the addition of converting technologies in their portfolio we clearly see the synergies with Valmet's end-to-end solution including tissue machine and converting lines," said Esa Paavolainen, Vice President Projects, Metsa Tissue.

Gianfranco Agnusdei, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Services, Tissue Converting business unit, Paper business line, at Valmet, explained, "This is one of Valmet's first projects implementing the complete value chain, combining a Valmet tissue making line and converting technologies. It's a unique offering in the market. With it, we have developed a one-stop solution to actualize the integrated factory concept."

Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries.

SOURCE: Valmet
A man reportedly left a newborn girl near a walking path in Texas on a hot Saturday morning, officials revealed. Police stated in a press conference that the baby, seemingly born that morning, was discovered in Katy, approximately 30 miles west of Houston, around 9 a.m.

Texas Family Discovers Abandoned Newborn

A couple went out for an early walk with their child and dogs and found the newborn, who was wrapped in a towel.

Daniela Fedele explained that she and her family were out early to avoid the heat when their 3-year-old daughter spotted the infant while riding her bike toward her.

"I noticed movement from two little feet, and then my husband arrived with the dogs, and I called out to him, 'Oh my god, a baby, a baby,'" Fedele recounted. "He immediately said, 'Call 911, call 911,' and that's exactly what we did."

The abandoned newborn, characterized as premature with her umbilical cord still attached, was discovered in a stable situation and taken to a hospital for treatment, according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

Sergeant Juan Garcia affirmed in a press briefing that the baby had not been exposed to the hot weather for an extended period.

Expressing disbelief, Fedele couldn't understand why someone would abandon a baby. "I keep replaying this scene in my head so many times, and I just don't understand. How could someone do that? I was shocked, angry, upset," she said.

Authorities characterized the suspect as a young man who supposedly left the baby on a bridge at the start of the walking trail in Katy. He was described as slim, with fair complexion and black hair, wearing a black shirt and possibly gray pants. Police noted that the individual could face charges of child abandonment and endangerment.

Texas law includes a Safe Haven provision allowing unharmed children to be left without prosecution for abandonment.

Read Also: DNA Shows Baby Elsa Is Third Baby Newhan Parents Abandoned

Abandoned Newborn Found Near a Walking Path in Katy

Authorities are seeking information about the young man spotted with the baby. He was described as wearing a black shirt and possibly gray pants and was seen walking on the Plantation Lakes trail.

The baby was discovered on the 5500 block of Casa Martin, near the intersection of Greenhouse and N Fry Road in Katy.

Sergeant Juan Garcia from the child abuse unit stated that the baby appeared to be born that morning due to the attached umbilical cord and fresh placenta. Garcia praised the two witnesses who found the baby while walking with their child and dogs. They noticed a man walking away from a white towel, discovered the baby, and immediately contacted 911, ensuring the child wasn't exposed to the heat for long.

The National Weather Service warned of hot and humid weather over Father's Day weekend, with Katy's temperature forecasted to reach 95F, making the timely discovery crucial.

Daniela Fedele, one of the witnesses, said that she initially couldn't believe her eyes when she saw the baby. Her husband, Luis Marin, added that the baby opened her eyes and looked at him, making it hard to understand how someone could abandon her.

As of Saturday, authorities had not obtained any leads but were reviewing surveillance footage from the area. The charges associated with the incident include child abandonment and endangerment.

Garcia urged parents needing help after giving birth to use the Baby Moses (Safe Haven) law, which permits them to leave their newborn at designated safe places like hospitals and fire stations without facing legal consequences.

Anyone with information regarding the case is urged to call 713-830-3250 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS (8477).
According to court records, a student from New York University is suing her roommate and the roommate's mother, claiming they stole more than $50,000 in clothing, handbags, and jewelry and tried to sell them through an online consignment store.

Kaitlyn Fung Steals Over $50,000 Worth of Designer Items

The accusation claims Aurora Agapov's roommate, Kaitlyn Fung, "concocted a scheme" to steal Agapov's jewelry and high-end designer clothing and handbags to sell them on The RealReal.

Agapov, who finished her freshman year at NYU earlier this summer, noticed her belongings were missing around May 1.

On that day, she reportedly discovered a receipt made out to her roommate Fung, who is from Old Tappan, New Jersey, issued by the luxury consignment store The RealReal, detailing some of the items believed to have been stolen.

"My heart dropped," Agapov told the New York Post about discovering the thefts, including items gifted by her mother. "We spoke pretty much every day," she said about her relationship with Fung, noting there had been no major conflicts.

The RealReal stated that all consignors must confirm they have the right to sell the items and that the items aren't stolen. The company is cooperating with local authorities regarding Agapov's lawsuit and has provided all requested information.

The RealReal store in downtown Manhattan spokesperson stated that they will remove stolen items from the premises and investigate any possible incidents.

Additionally, they recommend that the alleged victim file a pleading with law enforcement and other legal authorities, as per the company's policy.

Neither Fung's nor Agapov's legal teams responded to requests for comment.

Aurora Agapov Sues Roommatef or Stealing Her Valuable Items

According to the lawsuit, Agapov confronted her roommate Fung, who she shared a residence with during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Fung acknowledged taking numerous valuable items, with some already sold through The RealReal, described as the premier marketplace for authenticated luxury consignment.

At Agapov's request, Fung allegedly logged into her RealReal account and showed Agapov the items listed for sale, including a Solange Azagury 18K ruby ring worth $23,765, a Celine Nanno tote worth $3,300, and a Chanel purse worth $4,000.

The app also supposedly listed stolen items that had been sold, such as a Chanel bracelet sold for $175 and a Bvlgari necklace sold for $2,485.

The accusation claims these items were sold for much less than their true market price, with the Chanel bracelet valued at $2,000 and the Bvlgari necklace at about $13,000.

Other stolen items listed but returned to Fung included a Gucci handbag, a Celine handbag, and Christian Louboutin shoes.

The lawsuit states the value of the unsold stolen items is about $31,000, while damages for the sold stolen items are at least $20,000.

Agapov reported the alleged theft to the NYPD on May 2, and Fung was arrested the same day, the lawsuit states.

When Agapov visited The RealReal store in downtown Manhattan to discuss the theft, an employee informed her that Fung's mother referred to as Jane Doe in the lawsuit, had instructed the store to send the unsold items to her home in New Jersey. Despite Agapov's demands, those items have not been returned, the lawsuit says.

A court summons for Fung was delivered to her father at their New Jersey residence on June 6, according to court documents.
An 8-year-old boy critically injured in a mass shooting at the Brooklands Plaza splash pad in Rochester Hills, Michigan, is showing remarkable progress in his recovery, according to Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard.

The boy, his 4-year-old family, and their mom were among the nine victims of the firing on Saturday.

8-Year-Old Boy Shot at Splash Pad Shooting

The tragic incident unfolded when 42-year-old Michael William Nash opened fire, discharging as many as 36 shots and breaking several times to reload.

Nash also returned to his home in Shelby Township, where he took his own life. According to officers, Nash had no connection to the victims or the splash pad, a popular local attraction.

The 8-year-old boy, who was shot in the head, has made significant strides in his recovery, although he remains in critical condition.

His 4-year-old brother, who was shot in the leg, is in stable condition, and their 39-year-old mama, who was struck in the tummy and leg, also remains critically injured.

Sheriff Bouchard shared his thoughts on the family's ordeal, stating, "Reeling would be an understatement. That poor family went through effects that no family should ever have to face."

The sheriff verified that five other victims are in stable condition, with two having been released from the sanitarium. All the other victims, apart from the two young brothers, are grown-ups.

Michigan Shooter's Background

Authorities recovered a cache of arms from Nash's home, including 11 firearms - handguns, rifles, and shotguns.

Nash's 9 mm Glock handgun, used in the shooting, was bought fairly in 2015. Despite living with his mother, Nash was alone at home during the attack. Neighbors described Nash as a loner who kept to himself.

The motive behind Nash's conduct remains unclear, although Sheriff Bouchard noted that Nash displayed signs of paranoia, including claims of being watched and government surveillance.

It appears that he's had some internal mental health struggles going on, Bouchard said, emphasizing that there were no previous reports of these issues.

Michigan recently legislated a law allowing judges to expropriate arms if a family member reports implicit threats, but no similar intervention passed in Nash's case.

This mass shooting was one of several across the United States over the weekend. Six people were shot in Lathrup Village, another Detroit exurb; seven were injured at a party in Methuen, Massachusetts; and eight were shot during a Juneteenth festivity in Round Rock, Texas, where two people were killed.

Read Also : Soda Recall: Charles Boggini Company Pulls Drinks Over Undeclared Preservatives

A Cry Towards the Halt of Gun Violence

In response to the recent shooting, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre verified that President Biden is nearly covering these events and has extended his prayers to the affected families.

The chairman has been tracking these tragedies. We're soliciting for the families who lost loved ones to this senseless violence and wishing all those who were injured a speedy recovery," she stated.

Jean-Pierre reiterated the president's position on gun violence, prompting Congress to take action.

As the president has said, this isn't normal, and Congress must act. At the same time, he'll continue to use every tool at his disposal to end the epidemic of gun violence that's tearing our communities apart, she added.
A Los Angeles School District is voting for a school policy change to ban student smartphone use on campus.

This is aimed at enhancing student focus and academic performance, the Los Angeles Unified School District ( LAUSD) board suggested 5-2 on Tuesday to ban cell phones during academy hours.

This significant policy change, set to be enforced by the spring 2025 semester, extends the quarter's restrictions on cell phone use and reflects a broader public concern among preceptors.

LAUSD Cell Phone Ban To Address Classroom Distractions

The LAUSD's decision comes in response to widespread frustration over the disruptive impact of cell phones in educational settings.

According to a recent Pew Research Center report, 72 percent of high school teachers in the United States consider cell phone distractions a major issue in classrooms.

Board member Nick Melvoin, a crucial proponent of the ban, emphasized that the inordinate use of smartphones is hindering students' socialization, mental health, and academic success.

Melvoin believes that he voices his observations, saying that students are glued to their mobile devices and are constantly scrolling in class. He adds that the students are missing out on real social relations during regular school breaks such as lunch and recess since they are plugged in their phones.

Research cited by supporters of the ban suggests that excessive cell phone use is linked to various mental health issues, including increased stress, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, feelings of aggression, and even suicidal thoughts.

Limiting cell phone use during the school day, they argue, can lead to improved academic performance and better mental health outcomes for students.

Balancing Safety and Communication Needs

Despite backing the ban, some board members expressed concerns about how it would affect students' capability to communicate with their parents, especially during emergencies.

Melvoin conceded these worries, noting that numerous parents have raised apprehensions about maintaining communication in extreme situations, similar to a mass shooting.

To address these concerns, the board discussed potential accommodations for students who aren't fluent in English and may use smartphones for translations.

The perpetration of the ban could vary between schools, with some banning phones entirely on school premises, while others might require students to store their phones in lockers or magnetic pouches during academy hours.

"There will be differences between schools," said LAUSD School Board President Jackie Goldberg. "But the idea is really simple: If you bring your phone to school, you park it at the beginning of the day, either in a locker or a pouch, and you pick it up when you go home."

Legislative Environment and Broader Counteraccusations

The LAUSD's decision aligns with legislative trends in California and other states. In 2019, California's state council passed a law permitting school districts to limit student smartphone use.

A new bill presently moving through the state council aims to dictate restrictions or bans on cell phone use in public seminaries statewide by July 1, 2026.

The LAUSD offers references to these legislative efforts, emphasizing similar initiatives in states like Oklahoma, Kansas, Vermont, Ohio, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania.

Supporters of the LAUSD ban also pointed to Florida's measures to block social media access on school district Wi-Fi as part of broader efforts to manage technology use in schools.

Interestingly, the LAUSD vote coincided with a topical essay by U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. Dr. Murthy's op-ed called for advising labels on social media apps, citing their potential detriment to adolescents' mental health.
A 15-year-old girl from Massacusetts was killed hours before her middle school graduation.

A heartbreaking tragedy struck Lowell, Massachusetts, as 15-year-old Ahliana Dickey was fatally shot just hours before her graduation, which was allegedly due to her personal abusive relationship.

Police authorities have arrested her older boyfriend, Trevor Bady, in connection with her murder.

The Ahliana Dickey Murder

On the evening of June 14, Ahliana Dickey was found dead in her first-floor bedroom, filled with gunshot injuries in her young body. The 15-year-old girl killed in the incident was supposed to attend her middle school graduation later that day.

However, when she failed to appear in the ceremony, her concerned family members rushed to her home, only to discover the terrible scene. Dickey's grandmother immediately called the police at around 6:10 p.m., reporting the devastating incident.

According to police investigations, it has been revealed that the 15-year-old girl had been in an abusive relationship with her boyfriend, Trevor Bady, a 21-year-old.

A resident in their neighborhood shared that shortly after midnight, the neighbor had heard a loud argument between a man and a woman during the time of the incident.

The woman was heard yelling, "Get off me, get away from me, I don't want to be with you anymore," which was shortly followed by gunshot sounds. Although police responded to the scene promptly, they were unable to locate the parties involved at that time.

Surveillance footage later verified the disturbing sequence of events, showing Ahliana crying for help shortly before night and Bady leaving her home soon after.

Police investigations revealed that Bady had taken an Uber to and from Ahliana's residence on the night of the incident. The Uber motorist linked Bady as the passenger, providing crucial evidence for the case.

Community in Mourning

Bady was arrested without incident in Peabody on Monday. He was arraigned in Lowell District Court on Tuesday, pleading not guilty to charges of murder, armed home invasion, unlawful possession of a firearm, and other related offenses. Bady is being held without bail and is listed to appear in court again on July 30.

The tragic death of Ahliana Dickey has left the community in mourning. Just days before her murder, Ahliana had confided in someone that Bady had threatened to kill her and her grandmother. This revelation underscores the severity of the domestic abuse she endured.

Her father, Scott Dickey, expressed his profound grief on social media, stating, " My worst fear has happened. Losing a child, I wouldn't wish this pain on anyone. "

The community has rallied around the grieving family, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over$ 10,600 of its$ 20,000 goal by Tuesday afternoon to support burial expenses and other needs.

This tragic case highlights the critical need to address domestic violence and provide support to victims. Ahliana Dickey's story is a stark reminder of the dangers many young individuals face in abusive relationships.

As the community mourns her loss, there's a renewed call for stronger measures to protect vulnerable individuals and prevent similar devastating incidents in the future.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has temporarily halted the export of avocados and mangoes from Michoacan, Mexico, following a security incident that raised concerns for the safety of its inspectors. This decision affects one of Mexico's major agricultural exports to the United States.

USDA Stops Avocado and Mango Exports

On Monday, a USDA spokesperson announced that the inspection program will remain paused until the department can guarantee the safety of its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) inspectors working in Mexico.

"The programs will remain paused until the security situation is reviewed and protocols and safeguards are in place for APHIS personnel," the spokesperson stated.

The USDA didn't give specific details about the nature of the security pitfalls. However, reports from Reuters indicated that the suspense followed a kick in support of local police in the municipality of Paracho.

The USDA first informed the Avocado Exporting Producers and Packers of Mexico about its decision to suspend new exports earlier this month.

USDA Safety Review's Impact on Supply Chain

While avocados and mangoes formerly audited and in transit won't be impacted by the suspension, the halt could have significant implications if the issue isn't swiftly resolved.

This marks the second suspension in just over two years; a similar incident in February 2022 also led to a temporary pause due to safety concerns for USDA workers. That situation was resolved within a week and didn't significantly affect the U.S. avocado supply.

Michoacan and Jalisco are the only Mexican countries authorized to export avocados to the U.S., a trade worth billions of dollars annually.

Michoacan, however, is one of Mexico's most dangerous states, plagued by organized crime and extortion, which has not spared the economic avocado industry. However, the disruption could impact the availability of avocados in the U.S. if the current suspension extends beyond a brief period.

Security Concerns in Michoacan

The USDA's decision underscores ongoing security challenges in Michoacan, known for its long-standing issues with gang violence.

The avocado industry, despite its profitable importance, has been vulnerable to criminal activities. In light of these hazards, ensuring the safety of U.S. inspectors is paramount for the continuation of agrarian trade between the two countries.

Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramirez has been in constant communication with U.S. officials, handing assurances that appropriate export conditions are in place.

Despite these assurances, the USDA has deemed it necessary to break the examination programs until a thorough safety review is completed.

The USDA's actions highlight the delicate balance between maintaining robust agricultural trade and ensuring the safety of the labor force involved in the examination process.

As the situation unfolds, stakeholders on both sides of the border will be keenly watching for developments that could impact the flow of these popular fruits to U.S. consumers.

The USDA's temporary halt on avocado and mango exports from Michoacan underscores the significance of security measures in international trade.

While the immediate impact on the supply chain may be minimal, prolonged disruptions could affect the availability of these fruits in the U.S. market. For now, the focus remains on conducting a comprehensive safety review to ensure that APHIS inspectors can operate without threat.

As the situation is nearly covered, it's hoped that the necessary protocols and safeguards will be swiftly enforced, allowing the resumption of exports and the continued enjoyment of Mexican avocados and mangoes by U.S. consumers.
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***

Anti-Catholic Reformed Protestant polemicist James Swan wrote the article, When Catholic Apologists Pray for You (5-30-07), directed towards yours truly. I will cite it in its entirety (his words in blue):

Ill keep praying for you, as I do all my severe, hostile, critics. [me!]

Im curious how these prayers actually sound, and if any of this language is utilized:

Yeah, I think its good to follow Jesus advice:

Matthew 5:43-47 (RSV) You have heard that it was said, `You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. [44] But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, [45] so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. [46] For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? [47] And if you salute only your brethren, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Luke 6:27-28 But I say to you that hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, [28] bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.

Note how Swan  in very typical anti-Catholic fashion  implies that this was insincere on my part, and/or immediately hypocritical, so that it can be dismissed altogether.

Jimbo

Anti-Catholic polemicist and pseudo-apologist James Swan

James Dave Got The Citation Wrong Again! Swan

James A.g Botches Every Citation He Makes Swan

Similarly, I wonder if these titles are used as well:

Steve Whopper Hays, David T. I Could Care Less about Context, King Dr. Eric The Yellow Svendsen, Frank Federal Action If You Misrepresent Me Turk, William Historical Revisionist Webster, Bishop King James White

Perhaps there is a particular saint being prayed to, one of whom enjoys such creative language.

What horrific language from me, huh? This is simply tweaking, playful, harmless, Rush Limbaugh-type stuff. I was, of course, reacting in all these cases to truly vitriolic, extreme, slanderous, malicious (fringe group) anti-Catholic insults sent my way, or the Catholic Churchs way, such as that were not Christians; our Church supposedly denies the gospel, teaches Pelagian works-salvation, that we are unregenerate pagans and idolaters, spiritual ignoramuses, that Rome is the antichrist, Whore of Babylon; stuff like that. There is no one-to-one comparison whatsoever.

My epithets or insults are not nearly as harsh as those of Jesus, Paul, and the prophets. Jesus called Herod that fox and the Pharisees a brood of vipers and whitewashed tombs. He even called them fools: after saying in another place that this usage might lead one to hellfire (obviously, then, its not an absolute prohibition). Elijah taunted the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel (who were soon to be executed), asking them if their god was off relieving himself; Jesus used the sarcastic log in the eye word-picture; St. Paul wrote that he wished false teachers would castrate themselves (Gal 5:12).

*

Now lets review just a few representative examples (out of many hundreds) of what these guys have called me:

*

James Swan [link]

As far as I know, hes a guy in Michigan sitting in his attic with a computer. (4-26-07)

.the one who craves attention. (12-22-07)

Its all about the glory of DA. . . . . . . a guy who simply claims to be an apologist. (4-14-09)

*

This is a big difference between DA and I. Ive never been bored. I actually have a job, . . . On the other hand, I think DA considers sitting up in his attic tapping away on a computer all day an actual job. Oh thats right, hes a professional Catholic apologist. . . . Wife comes in: Hi honey how was work today? Husband: today I spent all day posting inane blog comments and compiling a list of someone elses blog posts about me. Wife: Thats great dear how much did you get paid for doing it? Husband: well, um, err, um (7-17-09)

*

I think its quite possible you have serious psychological issues. . . . your cyber-behavior strikes me (and probably others) as very bizarre. If you get yourself checked out, and my suspicions prove accurate, and you get the help you need, be it medication or therapy, and we see a change in your cyber behavior, Ill seriously consider never mentioning you, and begin trying to strike your name from this blog. Perhaps then we could actually have a civil dialogue. If indeed this happens, I dont want to be known as a guy who picked on a person struggling with deep psychological issues. . . . (8-24-09; this is the guy, remember, who complains frequently about folks using psychohistory to analyze Martin Luther)

*

[P]erhaps it is time we back of from Dave Armstrong a bit. I know you probably think Im being sarcastic, but actually, Im not. / . . . Theres just something not right with Mr. Armstrong. I think he needs some help. (8-26-09) * If anything is comically surreal its the effort you put in to your research. (12-21-09) * Im sure you would very much appreciate it if I didnt look up the quotes you mishandle and put them back in their proper context. . . . Ill keep looking up your research. Youve put forth enough bogus research to keep me busy for a long time, if I so choose.. . . Those who care about truth will benefit from contexts and will find your work substandard. . . . I dont take you seriously as a professional apologist, . . . (2-26-10) * Great example of your psychosis. (2-26-10; retracted on 4-18-10 with apology) *

That you wont answer simple questions about context really does make one question your honesty. (2-27-10) * Yes indeed, I do find your shenanigans quite odd behavior. However, as Ive stated repeatedly while I think youre wacky, other people take you seriously. . . . I explained earlier your eratic [sic] behavior, particularly on my blog, lead me to question whether or not you needed help. (2-27-10) * Im not against Mr. Armstrongs book[s] simply because they are self-published. Im against the ones I have because theyre simply awful. Ive reviewed parts of a few of them, and the material is horrendous. (4-13-10) * Steve Hays [link] * hypersensitive, paranoid, an ego-maniac, narcissistic, with a martyr and persecution complex, . . . a self-obsessive individual . . . Not only is Dave an idolater, but a self-idolater. He has sculpted an idol in his own, precious image. A singular, autobiographical personality cult (7-16-09); youre a hack who pretends to be a professional apologist . . . you dont do any real research (1-28-10); you need to have your psychiatrist up the dosage . . . You have an evil character. . . . Im supposed to be taken in by your bipolar tactics? (1-29-10); . . . a schizophrenic guy like Armstrong . . . emotionally unhinged, . . . Armstrongs instability (4-18-10). * I used to think that Dave Armstrong was just a jerk. Not deeply evil. Just a jerk. . . . He isnt just a narcissistic little jerk. Hes actually evil. Its not something we can spoof or satirize anymore. Hes crossed a line of no return. (4-13-09) * You have to wonder what Armstrong would do with himself in heaven. I dont think heaven is big enough for God Almighty and David Armstrong. If Armstrong ever gets to heaven, hell have to evict the Lord to make room for himself. Dave is his very own religion. Both subject and object. He carries around a mental icon of his adorable self-image. Lights imaginary candles to his self-image. Burns imaginary incense to his self-image. This overweening self-importance isnt limited to Armstrong. In my observation, its fairly characteristic of Catholic converts who become pop apologists. . . . What is it about Catholic converts like Armstrong which selects for this particular mindset? (The Cult of St. Dave, 7-16-09) * [Y]ou play the innocent victim when someone exposes your chicanery. . . . youre a hack who pretends to be a professional apologist . . . you dont do any real research. . . . Dave is a stalwart enemy of the faith. Hes no better than Richard Dawkins or Christopher Hitchens. Just like the militant atheist, his MO is to destroy faith in Gods word to make room for his alternative. (1-28-10) * Both Paul Hoffer and Dave Armstrong are bad men who imagine they are good men. (12-7-11)

* James White [link] * Roman Catholic apologists like Dave Armstrong, who lack any meaningful ability to engage the text in a serious manner, have no compunctions about grabbing anything to use as a bludgeon against the truth. (3-27-04) DA lacks the ability to engage the text of the Scriptures in a meaningful fashion, and 2) DA will use anything to attack the truth. . . . As to the first, I simply direct anyone to the exegesis presented in A Biblical Defense of Catholicism, his 2001 publication. The book is a monument to how to ignore context, avoid grammar, shred syntax, and insert the traditions of Rome willy-nilly into any passage you cite. . . . DA thinks himself a modern Socrates, yet, his writing takes wild leaps from topic to topic, inserts endless (and often gratuitous) irrelevant material that serves only to cover the shallow nature of what is being said, and in the end requires one to possess the skill of nailing jello to a wall to be able to respond to it for its utter lack of substance. (3-28-04) When do, where do you draw the line? I mean, it would be so much easier to just ignore all these people, but the problem is, were one of those few folks that actually gets out there and we get our hands dirty. We actually take on these, these individuals, and show where the argumentations bad, and youre gonna end up with dirt on your hands, and on your face, when you wallow with some of these folks, and we try to figure out where the line is. This guy [sigh], sadly, there are people who write recommendations of his stuff! I mean, you got Scott Hahn, all these folks, which amazes me. Uh, because you [laughter] look at some of his books, and its just like wow! theres just no substance here. Its just rattle rattle rattle rattle, and quote John Henry Cardinal Newman and thats the end of the subject. And theres no meaningful argumentation going on at all. (webcast of 4-20-04) As I said a few weeks ago, since there is no substance to the mans methodology or study, but no end to his time to tap away at a keyboard, what do you do when he starts in with his irrational diatribes? Hopefully the clear demonstration of his incapacity to engage in meaningful exegesis (indeed, even to know what the term means) will help some who have been impacted by his sheer volume of verbosity. (4-23-04) Mr. Armstrong has provided a reading list on his blog. In essence, this means that instead of blaming ignorance for his very shallow misrepresentations of non-Catholic theology and exegesis, we must now assert knowing deception. (12-31-04) Honestly, how utterly pathetic can someone become? It was bad enough that his work was shown to be consistently shallow, and worse that his attempts to respond were shrill and panic-filled (leading to his melt down and his unwillingness to even attempt further defense), . . . But it truly amazes me that someone who utterly lacks the tools to do the work he claims to do with such expertise continues to be dragged along by the rest of his compatriots. Just another example of as long as it is in the service of Mother Church, it is all good. What a contrast: we seek to be consistent in honor of the truth, . . . (4-5-05) Now, moonbat is an interesting phrase. It is generally used to describe the wacko left, but it strikes me as being particularly descriptive of wackos in general, unhinged folks who have no self-control and are utterly controlled by their angry emotions. Most religions have their moonbats. Rome surely does. Off the top of my head, we can list . . . Dave the Stalker Armstrong . . . (5-4-07) Steve Ray and Dave Armstrong, . . . those Roman Catholic apologists who really are not serious about truth but do what they do for less-than-noble reasons, . . . (7-31-08) The little yip yip yip yip yip dog? Thats Dave Armstrong, because he never does anything original on his own. He always borrows from somebody else. . . . . . . try doing it truthfully. (webcast, 7-31-08) Serious readers in the field realize that while Dave may stumble over a thoughtful argument once in a while, it is always to be found somewhere else. He simply does not produce original argumentation of any kind, . . . (1-6-10) Dave Armstrong is not a serious or thoughtful or reflective or studied Roman apologist or writer. Period. (Twitter, 5-17-12) Dave Armstrong has never had a fresh insight on a theological and doctrinal topic. Period. (Twitter, 5-18-12) Eric Svendsen [link]

*

. . . strategy of deceit that he [yours truly] uses all the time . . . (1-11-05)

* [T]he nature of his apology was insincerity . . . Thats the strategy of deceit that Paul refers to in Ephesians 4. (1-13-05) *

He has no problem with lying, so long as he thinks he can pin that same charge on someone else; that way he doesnt appear to be lying. What a sad spectacle. (1-14-05) *

. . . DAs strategy of deceit, . . . (1-14-05) *

Whats my lack of charity got to do with DAs lack of honesty? Nothing. . . . thats just what DA does besthe deceives, and he usually accomplishes that by focusing on half-truths (thats the strategy of deceit that marks the heretic). (1-15-05)

*

*

. . . of course, most of what appears on the web site is not even pretext at Biblical apologetics, just inflammatory material . . . (10-18-07)

*
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This is a reply to anti-Catholic Reformed Protestant polemicist James Swans article, Martin Luther and Marys Assumption (12-18-06). His words will be in blue; Luthers in green.

Heres another one of those Martin Luther was devoted to Mary quotes. This time, Luther is said to believe in Marys assumption.

Well, yes. Lutheran scholars agree that he did, as I will document.

William J. Cole did not have anything to do with the Weimar edition of Luthers Works.

Since it was compiled either before he was born or when he was very young, that would follow, yes.

He was a Roman Catholic scholar who wrote an article on Luthers Mariology many years ago. . . . The quote is originally from WA 10(3), 268,13 to 269. The translation utilized is from Coles old article from 1970, Was Luther a Devotee of Mary? [Marian Studies XXI].

Yep. I put it online (probably the first person to do so). And thats where I got it. There is nothing improper in this. A secondary scholarly source can be used if he or she cites a primary source. Thats what Cole did. Nor does a person have to read the original in a different language in order to cite a secondary source citing it in English. Swan  who knows why?  has this ludicrous notion in his head that this is what is required of everyone.

The quote is from Luthers sermon of August 15, 1522. Cole mentions it was the last time Luther preached on the Feast of the Assumption, which should tip us all off on where Luther was heading with his Mariology (recall, Luther lived till 1546, thus this comment comes very early in his Reformation.). Cole quotes Luther as saying,

There can be no doubt that the Virgin Mary is in heaven. How it happened we do not know. And since the Holy Spirit has told us nothing about it, we can make of it no article of faith. [note from 8-2-24: actually, these are not Luthers words; see the Addendum at the end]

Now, one could say here that Luther leaves the door open for Marys assumption. Perhaps he did in 1522. . . . Here we find Luther living up to Sola Scriptura. One is not [to] believe in the Assumption.

Not all Lutheran historians or other scholars would agree with Swan that Luther always thought his followers should not believe in the Assumption. Lutheran scholar Eric W. Gritsch, who was a major translator in the English set, Luthers Works (edited by Jaroslav Pelikan), observed:

Luther affirmed Marys assumption into heaven but did not consider it to be of benefit to others or accomplished in any special way. (in The One Mediator, the Saints, and Mary, Lutherans and Catholics in Dialogue VIII, edited by H. George Anderson, J. Francis Stafford, Joseph A. Burgess, Minneapolis: Augsburg Fortress Press, 1992, 241; footnote 44; p. 382: Sermon on the Festival of the Assumption, August 15, 1522. WA 10/3:269.12-13. Sermon on the Festival of the Visitation . . . August 15, 1522. WA 52:681.27-31.; my bolded emphasis)

In the same book, twelve Lutheran and ten Catholic scholars participated. Their Common Statement (a sort of creed-like formulation agreed-upon by all) yielded some very interesting conclusions indeed:

(89) Luther preached on the Assumption . . . There were early Lutheran pastors who affirmed the Assumption as both evangelical and Lutheran. (101) From the Lutheran side, one may recall the honor and devotion paid to the Mother of God by Luther himself, including his own attitude to the Immaculate Conception and the Assumption, which he accepted in some form. (p. 55; my bolded emphasis)

Luther signed an August 19, 1527 letter to Georg Spalatin in the following (very unProtestant) manner:

Yours, Monday after the Assumption of Mary, 1527. Martin Luther. (in Luther: Letters of Spiritual Counsel, edited and translated by Theodore G. Tappert, Vancouver: Regent College Publishing, 2003, 230)

He did the same eight years later, in a letter dated the Friday after the Assumption of Mary 1535 (letter to Elector John Frederick, 20 August 1535, referenced in Luthers Works, Vol. 2, p. 21, footnote 31).

It is not to be an article of faith.

Luther did state that. But thats a separate issue from whether he believed it at that time.

Interestingly, Cole goes on to point out that Luther used strong language.for the elimination of the Assumption as an aspect of the hypocritical church, particularly in celebrating a feast for it. Cole cites Luther as saying in 1544:

The feast of the Assumption is totally papist, full of idolatry and without foundation in the Scriptures. But we, even though Mary has gone to heaven, should not bother how she went there. We will not invoke her as our special advocate as the Pope teaches. The pope takes away the honor due to the Ascension of our Lord, Christ, with the result that he has made the mother like her Son in all things.

Even this doesnt particular quotation necessarily require that Luther himself gave up all belief in Marys Assumption, since he was discussing not the thing itself, but how the feast celebrating it was conducted in the Catholic Church (thus, he referred to invoking her, etc., which has nothing directly to do with the doctrine itself).

In fairness to the work of William Cole, Cole doesnt take a stance one way or the other if Luther ever held to the doctrine of Marys Assumption. He simply says that for Luther the Assumption was of little importance and Luther never explicitly denied it either.

Swan (the worlds greatest expert on how to make a citation) gets this wrong, too, and he refutes himself in his later article, Revisiting Luther on the Assumption of Mary (5-24-16). He himself quotes Cole from the same article, where Cole certainly did take a stance:

For Luther the Assumption seems not to be so much a matter of doubt as of little importance and this is perhaps the reason, as Max Thurian affirms, that Luther did not pronounce clearly on the subject, but was content simply to affirm it.

Affirm means holding a belief. This aint rocket science. Cole thought that Luther affirmed Marys Assumption. But for some strange reason, Swan thinks he didnt. The well-known Luther scholar Eric Gritsch also thought he did (Luther affirmed Marys assumption into heaven), as did the twelve Lutheran scholars in the ecumenical book mentioned above (he accepted [Marys Assumption] in some form).

*

So who are we supposed to believe on this score?: a self-appointed Luther expert and anti-Catholic Protestant apologist with a philosophy degree and no published books, or a guy who helped translate the materials in the 55-volume standard set, Luthers Works, along with twelve other Lutheran scholars, who all agree that Luther believed in it? They didnt even say that he stopped doing so. Maybe he did. But they didnt seem to think so, or else  it seems to me  they could and would have mentioned that.

*

It is simply the case that people in the Bible died. Scripture doesnt tell us how many of them died. On Roman Catholic logic, one might as well suggest all the biblical characters that did not have their deaths mentioned were assumed into Heavenor, one can simply cease and desist from sophistry.

*

Yeah, most people die a normal death; no argument there! But in Scripture there are extraordinary departures from this life, too, and Catholics are saying that if these parallels exist in Scripture, that it cant be absolutely ruled out that Marys departure was of the same or similar nature. Its a possibility, in other words: one that is in harmony with other events in the Bible. Its not unbiblical. But it is speculative, with regard to the biblical data with respect to Mary. I think a theological / biblical case can be made for it.

*

If indeed Mary was free from sin, then it follows that she would not undergo the decay of death, which was the penalty for sin (Gen 3:16-19). But for the fall of man, no one would have died. Mary is the exception, for very good reason, and the forerunner of the resurrection that all who are saved will experience (1 Cor 15:12-23; cf. Mt 27:52-53).

*

This in turn is based on a prior acceptance of her Immaculate Conception , which can largely be argued from the Bible as well. We have the case of Enoch (Heb 11:5; cf. Gen 5:24), Elijah (2 Ki 2:1, 11), and many during the Second Coming (1 Thess 4:15-17): none of whom died before they were taken up into heaven. We also have in the Bible similar dramatic going-up-to-heaven events after having died, in the case of the two witnesses of Revelation (11:7-12) and our Lord Jesus Himself. Catholics are free to believe that Mary died or that she didnt die (the dogma allows either scenario). Either way, there are scriptural parallels.

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Swan goes on to make a more in-depth case in his follow-up article on this topic (mentioned above). Lets see what he comes up with there:

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Citing Luthers 1522 sermon on the feast of the Assumption, Swan opines, A careful reader will notice nowhere in this context does Luther admit to believing in the Assumption of Mary, . . . There is no Luther-an affirmation of the Assumption here. I see. Why, then, does Gritsch think that this same sermon is evidence for his affirmation of the doctrine? After all, he cited it in his footnote when he wrote, Luther affirmed Marys assumption into heaven. He also cited his Sermon on the Festival of the Visitation from the same date. I tried unsuccessfully to find this latter sermon online. Swan cites a partial citation and translation of it, after making the point that he believes Gritsch got the date wrong:

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It was preached in 1532 (see WA 52, XXIV ). . . . Eric Gritsch actually places the preaching of this sermon in 1522, . . . but this is an error.

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We however, even if she has already gone to heaven, cannot enjoy her ascension, and should not for that reason call to her or to take comfort in her intercession. So Luther affirms her Assumption (casually assumes it) in 1532, and this is one of two reasons that Gritsch gives for asserting that he held the doctrine. I love facts! Swan then cites a portion of this 1532 sermon (source: Susan C. Karant-Nunn and Merry E. Wiesner-Hanks Luther on Women: A Sourcebook ; New York: Cambridge University Press, 2003, pp. 46-47). The relevant portion is:So Luther affirms her Assumption (casually assumes it) in 1532, and this is one of two reasons that Gritsch gives for asserting that he held the doctrine. I love facts!

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Swan cites the Catholic William Cole, who correctly observed:

In summary, we can see that if the Feast is rejected, it is for reasons extraneous to the fact itself, which Luther never denied. Essentially, as Luther himself said in the same sermon the reason he does not celebrate it, although she has gone to heaven is that he sees it is a source of justifying invocation to Mary.

Bingo! (to use some Catholic lingo there . . . )

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Once again, we see here that Cole simply assumes what hes never proved, that Luther accepted the Assumption of Mary.

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Before, Swan claimed that he took no stand either way. Now he is bashing him for supposedly assuming without proof. Swan himself (thankfully) provided more context for the second 1532 sermon, that Gritsch cited as evidence. Luther assumes her ascension.

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Coles benign interpretation is a malignant interpretation of the context. Luther says theres nothing in Scripture about it, and because of that, her ascension into heaven is not to be celebrated.

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Again, those are two different things. We can believe in a doctrine, while not thinking a celebration of it is required or pious. And Luther explained in both 1532 and in 1544 that what he objects to is invocation of Mary in the context of the feast. So he wanted to ditch the feast, not the Assumption itself. He says there is nothing in Scripture about it, yet still believes it, so it has to be on the authority of Church and tradition, doesnt it? In so doing, he makes a temporary exception to sola Scriptura, his rule of faith. And that is fascinating, too.

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***

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This though has not stopped some of Romes scholars from saying this [1522] sermon serves as proof that Luther believed in the Assumption of Mary.

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Nor has it stopped Lutheran Eric Gritsch and twelve other prominent Lutheran scholars from believing that he held to the Assumption, based in part on this sermon. Swan actually deals with Gritschs statement, and spins it more wildly than a tornado:

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Gritschs main proof? This 1522 sermon. Keep your eye on the ball again. Notice how careful Gritsch is: Luther is said to affirm Marys Assumption into heaven but it was not accomplished in any special way. In this brief synopsis offered by Gritsch, he appears to redefine what it means to be Assumed into heaven. What he gives with one hand, he takes away with the other, for being Assumed into heaven by its very nature is a special way of arriving in heaven!

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Well, I would say that Luther says many silly and/or self-contradictory things. Nothing new there. In any event, Gritsch says that he affirmed the Assumption. Period. End of story. So it aint just us lowly Romanists who believe this out of our alleged desire to systematically lie and pretend, etc.

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Many years ago now these irresponsible conclusions from Cole and OMeara were taken by Romes cyber-apologists and plastered all over the Internet.

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Swan just cant stop with this idiocy. Its in his anti-Catholic blood, I guess. Many Lutheran scholars agree with this conclusion! At least he acknowledged that Gritsch did so. Miracles never cease . . .

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Why would these pop-apologists be so interested in Luther believing in Marys Assumption?

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Presumably for some of the same reasons I do:

1) We are interested in Christian history, including the founder of Protestantism (who is an extremely fascinating figure). Ive always loved history in general, and its much more interesting to me than fiction. Anomalies like this are interesting and educational by nature. * 2) We would make the point that if a person committed to sola Scriptura believed in the Assumption, then it must be based in some fashion (assuming internal consistency) on the Bible, since these people reject authoritative apostolic tradition and an infallible Church. * 3) If the founder of Protestantism believes in a Catholic distinctive then its no longer in fact exclusively a Catholic distinctive, is it? * 4) We rejoice in any agreement from our Protestant separated brethren, since it means that we have that much more in common than we already do (which is quite a bit) and are more unified.

From how Ive encountered these people, the motivation seems to be to cause dissonance in the minds of non-Roman Catholics.

*

Case in point. But what Protestants think of these facts that they are rarely told in their own circles is up to them. To me they are at bottom interesting facts, and I always seek facts and truth rather that fables and lies. They are what they are.

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First, Luther believed in sola scriptura, but look: he also adheres to our Mariology.

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That corresponds to my point #2 above. Kudos!

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Second, Roman Catholics are typically fairly critical of Martin Luther. But when it comes to the topic of Mary, Luther becomes the staunch supporter of Mary; a leader that all contemporary Protestants should learn a great lesson in Mariology from.

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We disagree with some of his teachings and agree with others. DUH! Like this is some big revelation or shocking thing? We write about disagreements because that is apologetics and comparative theology. We write about agreements for the sake of more unity and mutual understanding (#3 and #4 above). Were not as far apart as we thought . . .

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ADDENDUM and CORRECTION (8-2-24)

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Swan wrote an additional article on this topic, entitled,  Another Fake Luther Quote Cited by Catholics Exposed: There can be no doubt that the Virgin Mary is in heaven. How it happened we do not know  (8-1-24). He obviously had read this article of mine and is responding, but in keeping with his usual silly game, he pretends that it has nothing to do with me, and never mentions my name. He does manage, however, to provide one helpful bit of research (even an unplugged clock is correct twice a day, after all!):

Luther did not write the exact quote Roman Catholics say he did. Rather, the quote is not from Luther, but from William Tappolet, author of the book, Das Marienlob der Reformatoren [The Marian Praise of the Reformers, from 1962]. The quote is actually Tappolet summarizing his personal view of Luther on the Assumption, or rather, providing a summary of (what he thinks is) Luthers view. Then he cites Luthers sermon for proof . . .

True to form, he proceeded to mock Catholic apologists (and if you know my ludicrous 20-year history with him, he especially had me in mind): I suspect now may occur, at least on some Roman Catholic webpages, the disappearing Luther quote act, which has different variations. * Drumroll please. * Edited. Poof! Gone. * Or: Nope, we never cited this as a Luther quote. See.. its not on our webpage anymore, so it never happened. * Or: the documentation will be fixed: yep, were just great Roman Catholic researchers that figured out all of this stuff on our own. In fact, I am not like James Swan at all: a person who seems to never be able to admit that he ever made an error in his research (at least not if I or any dreaded, despised Catholic had pointed it out). I have done none of these things. I accept the fact that he discovered an error that the Catholic William Cole made in an article that I cited. The original disproven citation remains above (with a note to this Addendum), and now I issue a retraction (which I will also announce on my blog). What Swan in his triumphant and arrogant correction, however, doesnt appear to realize is that he had done the same thing that I did: accepted Coles quotation as genuine.

fake Luther quote. So obviously, he hadnt checked the original primary source to verify it at that time; i.e., the thing that he is always chiding Catholic apologists for not doing: he expects us to look up every original Luther source in German. He wrote in his recent article: The mockery in his article title lands on top of his head as well. After all, he had cited Cole with some of the context surrounding the alleged Luther quote in another article of his on the same topic , dated 5-24-16, without renouncing it as aSo obviously, he hadnt checked the original primary source to verify it at that time; i.e., the thing that he is always chiding Catholic apologists for not doing: he expects us to look up every original Luther source in German. He wrote in his recent article:

Theres nothing necessarily wrong with citing Cole, Ive found useful information in his article. However, there is something wrong with not checking his references! Almost anyone can do this now. No excuses Roman Catholic apologists! Do your homework!

Again, he hadnt done that himself in 2016, so his childish lecturing again merely exposes his own hypocrisy and shoddy research (just as bad as he claims ours is, if not worse, because of his constant self-absorbed and deluded claims of intellectual superiority). As I documented above, in his article on the topic almost ten years before that, dated 12-18-06, he is just as sure of the genuineness of the Cole citation of Luther as any Catholic: The quote is from Luthers sermon of August 15, 1522. Cole mentions it was the last time Luther preached on the Feast of the Assumption,. . . Cole quotes Luther . . . Now, one could say here that Luther leaves the door open for Marys assumption. Perhaps he did in 1522. . . . No ultra-enlightened, academic skepticism here, is there? For over eighteen years, then, Swan didnt do what he blamed us for not doing, until the light bulb went off in his head and he finally proclaimed in his article yesterday, I have solved this mystery!

Now, having acknowledged my own mistake (and you notice that Swan is utterly, blissfully unaware of his same 18-year mistake), I hasten to add that it doesnt change my argument in the slightest, because, as Swan noted, Tappolet was summarizing the Marian statements of Luther in his sermon on the Feast of the Assumption, on 15 August 1522. Swan was kind enough to provide an English translation of its introduction in his earlier article (Ive italicized the most relevant portions):

Today the festival of our dear lady, the mother of God, is observed to celebrate her death and departure above. But how little this Gospel corresponds with this is plain. For this Gospel tells us nothing about Mary being in heaven. And even if one could draw from this text every detail about what it is like for a saint to be in heaven, it would be of little use. It is enough that we know that departed saints live in God, as Christ concludes in Matthew [Matthew 22] based on the passage in Exodus [Exodus 4] where God says to Moses, I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob, that God is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. These passages sufficiently prove that they live. But we should not try to figure out what their life is like up there for it is not necessary for us to know. It is also not necessary to discover it. Reason is incapable of it. Some great masters have understanding about some things and yet not about this. For there are three states of life. First, as a child lays in his crib he lives in God but hardly perceives it. Second, when we sleep we also are alive and are scarcely aware of it. Thirdly, when we definitely are aware and experience that we are living, even then we dont know how. Now since here on earth God deals with us in this meager prison (that is barely half a life), in such a way that we barely perceive how we live here, how much more can He give life in heaven where it is spacious and where is true life. So we cannot set up any definite limits or establish a rule as to how the saints live there since even here dreaming and crazy people live, but we cant imagine how. It is enough to know that they live. But it is not necessary for us to know what that life is like. That is why I have always said that our faith always must rest upon what is known. We do not make articles of faith out of what doesnt rest squarely on Scriptures, else we would daily make up new articles of faith. For this reason, those things that are necessary to believe which you must always preserve, which Scripture clearly reveals, are to be markedly distinguished from everything else. For faith must not build itself upon what Scripture does not clearly prove. So since the Scripture clearly says here that Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all believers live, then it is necessary for you to believe that the mother of God lives. You can leave it in our gracious Gods hands what that life is like. Enough said about this festival. We will say something about the Gospel. (Festival Sermons of Martin Luther, Michigan: Mark V Publications, 2005, pp. 145-146)

As I showed above, Luther casually assumed Marys  ascension in a 1532 sermon. Swan, as always, makes out that Catholics (never Protestants!) are overzealously rationalizing and engaging in dishonest, deceitful historical revisionism as to Luthers Mariology. But of course, what he needs to adequately explain is how Lutheran scholar Eric Gritsch could read the same sermon, along with the 1532 sermon above, and cite both of them as the basis of his statement that Luther affirmed Marys assumption into heaven.

*

Nor has Swan explained how twelve other Luther scholars could write that Luther accepted Marys Assumption in some form. Note that they dont assert that he ceased believing in it. So its not just Catholics who think he affirmed the Assumption (however minimally it may have been) his entire life; and this shows that our arguments dont simply flow from our natural Catholic bias. Theyre in line with serious Lutheran Luther scholarship.

*

Yet Swan, the amateur blogger and self-proclaimed expert on Luther, with no published books of theology, apparently thinking himself superior to all these Lutheran scholars, blithely barges ahead, writing in his recent article:

The obvious question remains does the Luther sermon Cole and Tappolet cite prove Luther believed in the Bodily Assumption of Mary? Ive been over that before also. Read the context for yourself, either by visiting my old blog entry, Baseleys English rendering of the sermon from Festival Sermons of Martin Luther, or the German text. The Bodily Assumption of Mary is being read into the context by Roman Catholics. A careful reader will notice nowhere in the context does Luther admit to believing in the Assumption of Mary, . . . In this brief synopsis offered by Gritsch, he appears to redefine what it means to be Assumed into heaven.

Yet Gritsch and the other Lutheran scholars think that Luther did believe in the Assumption, based on these two sermons. Who to believe? Will we accept the word of a notoriously sloppy and dishonest, relentlessly sophomoric anti-Catholic blogger like James Swan, even when it expressly contradicts Lutheran scholars (including one major translator of his works in English) in matters of what Luther believed? I will accept the conclusions of the Lutheran scholars and experts on Luther, thank you. Swan is playing the sophists game, as usual. Avoid people who do that like the plague! I certainly would utterly ignore Swan and his vapid antics, too, if it werent for my duty as an apologist to expose and refute his special pleading nonsense, lest folks be led astray by it.

*

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Photo Credit: Assumption of the Virgin (1526-1529), by Andrea del Sarto (1486-1530) [public domain / Wikimedia Commons]

Summary: Anti-Catholic Protestant polemicist James Swan tries his hardest to prove that Luther rejected Marys Assumption, but infinitely more qualified Lutheran scholars disagree.
My first impression of the Microsoft Surface Pro (2024) tablet was not a good one. As soon as I finished setting it up  bam!  the new Copilot+ PC spontaneously and unexpectedly rebooted. And all I did was start playing around with the keyboard!

In fact, the one thing that I think consumers may hate about this new Microsoft Surface Pro, 11th Edition  and I never believed I would say this  is the new Surface Pro Flex Keyboard. Out of the box it was unresponsive, fidgety, andunderpowered? Yes, you need to charge it up, and thats something that youll have to get used to.

Lets back up a bit. When Microsoft botched its AI-powered Recall feature, pulling it from the initial launch of the Surface Pro (2024) / Surface Pro 11th Edition and the new Surface Laptop, that screwed up the entire review process for everyone. Microsoft removed any review embargoes for Copilot+ PCs, meaning that reviewers like myself are free to publish anything at any time. The problem is that theres an inherent tension between the demand for a hot take (publish or perish!) and a measured review, which takes some time with the device.

Im setting out to do both: tell you whats right and wrong out of the gate, as well as sit down and play with the Surface Pro (2024) in more depth. Another reviewer will be handling the new Surface Laptop. And well both also be trying to answer the questions you have as the reviews progress.

The first question: Yes, the Windows interface on the Surface Pro feels super quick and snappy. Whether its the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor (a 12-core X1-E80-100 is in the review model, along with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage) or just Windows itself, theres basically zero lag out of the box.

Surface Pro (2024) 11th Edition setup: Recall isnt here yet

No, Recall isnt included inside the new Surface Pro 11th Edition, as you might expect. Instead, the OOBE (Out of the Box Experience) is relatively straightforward, asking for your Microsoft account  and no, I didnt try too hard to avoid the need for a Microsoft account and use a local account instead. Most of the workarounds to use a local account appear to be patched out, and theres no obvious way to add a local account within the Windows 11 Home 24H2 version of Windows (26100.863) that ships with the Surface Pro (2024), either.

Windows 11 Recall will have to wait. Windows 11 Recall will have to wait. Mark Hachman / IDG Windows 11 Recall will have to wait. Mark Hachman / IDG Mark Hachman / IDG

Setting up the Surface Pro was pretty straightforward, though theres a greater push to use the Windows Backup and Restore functions to basically transfer over an existing Windows installation. I set up the Surface Pro 11th Edition as a new Copilot+ PC. (It does come with a month of Microsofts Game Pass Ultimate, by the way.) Recall isnt referred to by name; instead, the feature is listed as Quickly find things youve seen on your PC during the setup process. It did seem to take a bit longer than normal, probably about 20 minutes or so in all.

Though setting up the PC forced Windows to download needed updates, Microsoft recommended that reviewers visit Windows Update as well as the Microsoft Store app to update Windows and any needed Store apps. Thats not unusual, though any AI-powered updates, such as Paints Cocreator, didnt appear until the updates were applied. The Store also updated several voice language packs, something I dont recall seeing before, as well specific apps to help enable Super Resolution, for example.

Microsoft makes a huge push for you to use Edge, and uses this AI-driven theme generator as one hook. Microsoft makes a huge push for you to use Edge, and uses this AI-driven theme generator as one hook. Mark Hachman / IDG Microsoft makes a huge push for you to use Edge, and uses this AI-driven theme generator as one hook. Mark Hachman / IDG Mark Hachman / IDG

But it was between the completion of the initial setup and starting to play with the interface that things went south. First, the reboot  very rude! Second, the keyboard and touchpad simply stopped working. Granted, I had detached it just to see the connection. But having it stop working was inexcusable, and I had to reboot to get it to work again.

The keyboards firmware needs updating?!

Lets be fair: Microsoft had also told me that I would need to go to the Surface app, find the keyboard tile, and then update the firmware. (Yep, firmware. For a keyboard.) I hadnt done that, and neither will you. And, of course, the keyboard had to be first charged upand it wasnt. A quirk of the botched review cycle or a bad experience? Im leaning toward the latter. Thats a black mark in my book. If a consumer is being asked to pay a Surface Pro Flex Keyboard street price of $350, maybe charge up the keyboard to a useful state and update the firmware? Lets hope so. By the way, it takes five minutes to update the firmware, during which the keyboard wont work.

I havent tested the Pro Flex keyboards real hook  its wireless! But after my early struggles, maybe Ill keep it docked for now. It ships with the Surface Slim Pen 2, as a bundle, which is handy for apps like Paints Cocreator.

You cant ignore the Surface app on the Surface Pro (2024) 11th Edition. You cant ignore the Surface app on the Surface Pro (2024) 11th Edition. Mark Hachman / IDG You cant ignore the Surface app on the Surface Pro (2024) 11th Edition. Mark Hachman / IDG Mark Hachman / IDG

Lets move past that. How does the Surface Pro (2024) / Surface Pro 11th Edition feel? Again, slick and fast. Apps load quickly, and my quick tour of the operating system really struggled to find any area where things felt slow. (This is not a comprehensive statement, remember, just a first impression. Ill be trying numerous applications in the future to check.)

Microsoft didnt specifically tell me that we have the OLED version of the Surface Pro (2024) 11th Edition for review, but the inky blacks of the desktop give it away. It does look fantastic, and Im eager to dig into some Netflix content. My first snippet of Under Paris looked and sounded great, but ran a tiny bit choppy under Microsoft Edge. YouTube looks good so far.

Windows AI apps need an internet connection

Some of the new AI applications feel as interesting as they did when I tried them in Redmond. But they also feel glitchy. Cocreator worked great, until I disconnected it from the internet. I wanted to try to see if it used the NPU, but I couldnt even click on the icons within the application. When I tried putting the tablet in airplane mode, again Cocreator simply wouldnt work  the app was responsive, but there was no popup or warning that it wouldnt work when it was disconnected from the internet.

Windows 11s Photos update includes Restyle, which allows you to tweak the backgrounds of photos. Its pretty minimalist here. Windows 11s Photos update includes Restyle, which allows you to tweak the backgrounds of photos. Its pretty minimalist here. Mark Hachman / IDG Windows 11s Photos update includes Restyle, which allows you to tweak the backgrounds of photos. Its pretty minimalist here. Mark Hachman / IDG Mark Hachman / IDG

Interestingly, there was a warning within Photos, which now has an AI component called Restyle. Restyle uses AI to replace the background of, say, a prom picture with a beach or castle. My efforts with a portrait of Richard Nixon didnt achieve great results, though. I may have to play with it a bit more.

All in all, Im not tremendously impressed, but my faults dont lie with Qualcomms hardware. (This could change.) That feels fast and smooth. The Microsoft app and hardware experience, though, feels rushed. Im sure Microsoft will push additional updates to smooth out the wrinkles, but my own first impressions arent especially positive.

Next up? Ill be poking harder at how Qualcomms new Snapdragon X Elite hardware performs while running various applications, and testing the performance more thoroughly.
Stanbic Investment Management Services LTD. (SIMS) has officially launched its Responsible Investment Initiative at a ceremony held at the Kempinski Gold Coast Hotel, Accra. This initiative forms part of SIMS' commitment to sustainability and responsible investing through collaborating with issuers and investors to enhance sustainability efforts, towards driving positive change across the industry.



In his welcome address, Kwabena Boamah, Managing Director of SIMS, emphasized the importance of integrating environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) factors into investment strategy. SIMS is proud to be launching our commitment to sustainability and responsible investing. This marks the beginning of our journey of improving our business practices and embedding environmental, and social factors beyond corporate governance in our investment approach he said.



Mr. Boamah also highlighted that SIMS' objective goes beyond achieving financial gains for investors. Our goal is to deliver value to all stakeholders, going beyond financial gains for investors, to making an impact in society and on the environment. We aim to work with issuers to build capacity in their sustainability practices and with investors to drive positive change, he stated.



SIMS is determined to align its business operations with the Sustainable Development Goals, national ESG initiatives, and global ESG trends. Kwabena Boamah underscored SIMS dedication to this mission, saying, We believe that true stewardship extends client satisfaction to foster long-term value creation that benefits the economy, society, and the environment. We are committed to fostering a culture where our team, clients, and partners are empowered to be responsible, contributing to shared value through their way of business and their daily lives.



The event also featured a keynote presentation by Nuru Mugambi, Advisor, IFC - Sustainable Banking and Finance Network. Industry players and members of the panel provided insightful contributions during a panel discussion on the topic, Bridging the Gap; Profit and Purpose. The initiative was officially launched by Kwamina Asomaning, Board Chairman of SIMS and Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Ghana LTD, along with Charles Abani, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Ghana.



Stanbic Investment Management Services LTD (SIMS) is an investment management and advisory firm licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission and registered with the National Pensions Regulatory Authority as a pension fund manager.







Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Premier Marketing Leadership Awards, held at the La Palm Royal Hotel, has spotlighted the exemplary leadership of Nana Essilfuah Tamakloe, Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at Absa Bank Ghana LTD. Mrs. Tamakloe was awarded the Transformational Marketing Leader of the Year, recognising her significant contributions to the field of marketing within the banking sector.



Absa Bank Ghana also clinched the prestigious Marketing Team of the Year (Banking Sector  Gold Category). Led by Mrs. Tamakloe, the Marketing and Corporate Affairs team has been instrumental in the recent repositioning of the Absa Bank Ghana brand and the reveal of its new tagline, Your Story Matters, emphasising a customer-centred approach that fosters meaningful relationships and ensures a seamless customer experience.



I feel fortunate to be part of a forward-looking organisation that gives me the room to do what I love which has contributed significantly in building such a loved brand in Ghana, Mrs. Tamakloe remarked during her acceptance speech. She dedicated her award to her team, praising their dedication and innovative spirit.



The Premier Marketing Leadership Awards recognise individuals, teams, and organisations that demonstrate outstanding leadership, creativity, and innovation in marketing. The awards highlight the industrys best practices and serve as a platform to inspire and promote a culture of excellence within the marketing community.



The ceremony was attended by luminaries from various industries, including FMCG, retail, Healthcare, banking, and technology, all gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of their peers.







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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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In a move to transform Ghanas energy sector, the Government of Ghana has signed a US$12 billion agreement with TCP-UIC Consortium which comprises Touchstone Capital Group Holdings Ltd., UIC Energy Ghana Ltd., China Wuhan Engineering Co. Ltd., and China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Co. Ltd for the development of the first phase of the Petroleum Hub project in the Jomoro Municipal Area in the Western Region.



This project aims at positioning Ghana as the destination for energy trading in the West Africa sub-region.



This agreement is a critical step towards the Presidents vision of Ghana becoming a regional hub for petroleum refining, storage, and distribution.



The Petroleum Hub project is expected to accelerate the growth of Ghanas petroleum downstream sub-sector and make it a major player in the economy, creating jobs, attracting foreign direct investment, and enhancing energy security.



Comprehensive Development Plan



Covering over 20,000-acres of land in the Jomoro Municipal Area in the Western Region, the Petroleum Hub which is private sector-led will secure investments and development of key, ancillary and other infrastructures.



The key infrastructure includes three (3) refineries, five (5) petrochemical plants, 10 million cubic metre storage facilities, Jetties and Port Infrastructure.



The ancillary infrastructure and services include power plant, rail and road network, Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) terminals, pipelines, water treatment facilities, repairs & maintenance services, nautical services, waste treatment facilities, logistics, security & emergency response center, residential & commercial facilities, light to medium industrial area and recreational centers.



Other services and infrastructure such as state-of-the-art laboratory for petroleum products, fabrication workshop, metering and calibration services, equipment supplies, logistics services, remote monitoring & diagnostics, lubricant storage & supply, inspection & certification services will also be available.



The project is estimated to cost about $60 billion.



The development of the Petroleum Hub project will be executed in 3 phases, between 2024 and 2036, with the first phase focusing on developing a 300,000 barrel per day (bpd) refinery, 90,000 bpd petrochemical plant, 3 million m3 storage facility, Jetty and Port Infrastructure.



Economic Impact



The Petroleum Hub project when completed is expected to improve Ghanas economy significantly.



The Petroleum Hub project will increase the presence of major international oil trading and storage companies, create regional trading champions and encourage joint ventures between local and international companies for knowledge transfer and wealth creation, etc.



The local entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to do business with foreign investors in the Petroleum Hub which will facilitate the financial growth of these enterprises.



The Petroleum Hub project is expected to transform Ghanas economy and create over 780,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2036.



Sustainability Approach



Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) incorporates comprehensive sustainability plans.



In line with Ghanas Energy Transition Plan, the PHDC has outlined its sustainability plan with two key pillars;



Pillar 1 is balancing the economic environmental and social considerations and Pillar 2 is the empowerment of people through local content maximization and gender integration.



The Corporation recognizes that the core activities in the Hub will require carbon offsetting mechanisms to limit our contributions to Green House Gas (GHG) emissions.



Key initiatives that are to be executed include the development of a live wall along the boundary of the hub, adoption of advanced technologies for emission control and waste management.



The Corporation is focused on ensuring and safeguarding the biodiversity in the hub area, protecting the existing natural resources, and ensuring adequate waste management practices.



Additionally, community engagement initiatives will ensure that the local population benefit from improved infrastructure, healthcare, and educational opportunities.



Strategic Partnerships



The signing of this agreement hinges on the robust partnerships established between the Ghanaian government and international stakeholders.



TCP-UIC Consortium brings a wealth of expertise and technology to the table, ensuring that the project meets the highest standards of operational excellence and safety.



Conclusion



The signing of the US$12 billion agreement is more than just a financial transaction; it is a bold step towards economic sovereignty and regional leadership in the petroleum industry.



With the combined efforts of the government, industry partners, and the people of Ghana, the petroleum hub is poised to become a cornerstone of the nations economic landscape.



Stay tuned for more updates on this energy transformational project in positioning Ghana as an African giant in the petroleum sector.



For more information, please visit the PHDC official website www.phdc.gov.gh or contact [+233303940682], Email: [email protected]



About PHDC



The Petroleum Hub Development Corporation was established in 2020 through an Act of Parliament, Act 1053 (Petroleum Hub Development Corporation Act, 2020) to drive the promotion and development of the Hub in terms of securing licenses, permits and other required government support.



The Corporation was set up to create an enabling environment for private sector investments to thrive, provide decent jobs for Ghanaians and avenues for the growth of indigenous businesses.









Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Ghana aims to secure $1.7 billion in loans and other support from the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM) before the end of the year, Minister of State at the Ministry of Finance, Abena Osei Asare, has disclosed.



These funds, according to Ms Asare, will be directed towards programmes supporting Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and ongoing infrastructure projects in the country.



Speaking with the media on the sidelines of the AFREXIM Annual Meetings and Africaribbean Trade and Investment Forum she noted that the government is exploring innovative ways to support SMEs, and this funding will help address the challenges facing small businesses in the country.



She added, The President will next month launch the SME Growth and Opportunity Fund, and this support, if we can finalise it at this meeting, will help a lot going forward and the larger economy.



The Minister also revealed the governments plan to use some of this support to finance infrastructure projects in the country.



The government wants to assist SMEs in several sectors, and meetings like the AFREXIM Bank Annual Gathering offer us an opportunity to engage with other multilateral institutions and development partners, she added.



The African Export-Import Bank has played a significant role in supporting Ghanas economy, especially in recent times.



In 2022, the Bank provided $750 million to Ghana to finance capital growth-related expenditures.



This support came at a critical time when Ghana was struggling to secure funding from the international capital market and donors following an announcement of debt restructuring with bilateral creditors and commercial bondholders.

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 much-anticipated construction of the first phase of the Tamale-Walewale Road project has been delayed due to the government's debt restructuring program, according to the Minister of Roads and Highways, Asenso Boakye.



Despite its inauguration by Vice-President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in June 2022, the 83km highway, which is part of the crucial N10 route, remains untouched.



The N10, a key segment of the Central Corridor Road System, is vital for trade between Ghana and its neighboring landlocked countries and serves as a major connection between Accra and northern Ghana.



At the project's launch, Vice-President Bawumia emphasized its potential to boost intra-urban, regional, and national trade, enhance regional economic integration, and reduce business costs.



However, two years on, the road remains in poor condition with no construction underway.



The Minister, speaking in Walewale after a tour of the North East Region, attributed the delay to suspended disbursements caused by the debt restructuring program.



He reassured the public that negotiations with the Finance Ministry were nearing completion and that construction would soon resume.



"Very soon, we are about to finish the negotiation, and contractors will come back to the site to continue with the project," the Roads Minister stated.



During his tour, the Minister inspected several road projects, beginning in the Mamprugu Moaduri District.



He reviewed the 52km Wiase-Yizesi-Soobiinsi road, which has been completed and handed over to the government. Accompanied by the Member of Parliament, Mustapha Usif, District Chief Executive Abu Adams, and various road development officials, he met with the chiefs and residents of the Yizesi community, reaffirming the government's commitment to ongoing road projects and urging support for Dr. Bawumia and Mr. Usif in the upcoming elections.



The community chief expressed gratitude for the road developments but requested the completion of a drainage system to prevent flooding.



The Minister also inspected the 29.4km Yagaba-Kubori-Mankarigu road, the 24km Yagaba-Prima road, and the 23km Yagaba-So road.



In the West Mamprusi Municipality, he assessed the Wulugu-Kpasenkpe road, the Mishio-Prima bridge, and the Walewale township roads project.



At Mishio, the Minister voiced dissatisfaction with the slow progress on the Mishio-Prima bridge project. The 210m bridge over the White Volta River, designed to connect the Mamprugu Moaduri district, North Gonja, and Kumbungu districts, was started in 2021 and was scheduled for completion in early 2023.



As of June 12, 2024, it was only 20% complete. Boakye urged contractors to expedite their work, while contractors cited the need for fund releases to meet project timelines.



Concluding his tour, the Minister inspected the Walewale township roads project.



"In Walewale, the government is constructing many projects involving feeder and urban roads," he announced.



"I must say that I'm impressed with the work so far, and I'm quite confident that the contractors will finish the projects even ahead of schedule, given the information I have been given," he added.















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 European Union (EU) has aired suspicions of fraud in local pineapples exported from Ghana into the European market.



In its January 2024 Report on EU Agri-Food Fraud Suspicions, local pineapple exports from the country to Belgium have been alleged to contain an overdose of ethephon.



Ethephon is a plant growth regulator used to promote fruit ripening, coloration, abscission, flower induction and other responses including high yields.



Imported pineapples with non-European origins are subject to a legal residue limit. The maximum residue limit for ethephon on pineapples in Europe is 2.0 mg/kg; however, that from Ghana was detected to contain 2.4 mg/kg of the acid.



The document explained that the purpose of EU Agri-Food Fraud suspicions monthly report is to implement an official regulation which requires the organisation of risk-based controls to identify and combat fraudulent and deceptive practices along agri-food chains in the EU.



The report noted that it is also very critical to provide valuable but selected information to stakeholders of the agri-food sector in the EU, so they can perform adequate vulnerability assessments and identify new emerging risks.



In Ghana, the pineapple industry is the most developed horticultural sector. Pineapple is a non-traditional export crop grown mainly in the Greater Accra, Central, Eastern and Volta Regions.



The fruit is mainly cultivated by smallholder farmers and is estimated to have contributed more than sixty percent of Ghanas non-traditional exports value, generating some twenty thousand jobs nationwide.



Local pineapple production, according to stakeholders, is currently undergoing several constraints. Some challenges currently affecting production are pests and diseases (mealybug wilt disease, Phytophthora, soil pests), weeds, soil fertility, harvesting and post-harvest handling methods as well as and environmental degradation.



Given its challenges, any risk of an EU ban on the local industry will certainly jeopardize jobs and investments made.



The EU had previously banned fruit exports from Ghana in 2018, a prohibition that was lifted in 2021. The ban was due to quality and standards issues.



The bans lifting three years ago encouraged farmers to invest more in their farms in order to participate in export trade with the bloc.



Apart from mentioning Ghana in the report, other countries on the continent -such as Egypt, Uganda, Senegal and some western countries  were noted for various infractions.



For instance, oranges and strawberries produced in Egypt were noted in the report as not meeting EU production requirements.

Source: B&FT









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

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A delegation of fourteen (14) National Best Cocoa Farmers are set to embark on an educational and familiarisation trip to the United Kingdom.



The contingent, made up of current and past award winners from 2019 to 2023, is expected to undertake several activities aimed at promoting the countrys cocoa sector and offer them the opportunity to acquire knowledge and insight into the processes involved in the international cocoa trading system.



Amongst the activities to be undertaken by the delegation include visits to Cadbury and Mars Cocoa Processing Factories, meeting with the Ghanaian Business Community and paying a courtesy call on the Ghana High Commission to the United Kingdom.



The team will also visit the Cocoa Research Institute of the United Kingdom to acquaint themselves with the operations of the institution which conducts research into cocoa.



Other key highlights of the visit will include participation in a Town Hall Meeting and the UK Ghana Business Forum to be attended by the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana and later hold a meeting with the management of the Ghana International Bank (GIB-UK).



According to the Head of Public Affairs at COCOBOD, Mr. Fiifi Boafo, the trip will offer the farmers numerous benefits such as knowledge exchange, skills development, market access and understanding consumers preferences, quality standards and market demands.



Mr. Boafo further observed that the initiative is a demonstration of COCOBODs commitment to empowering farmers, building innovation and strengthening the cocoa industry.



According to him, management recognises the pivotal role cocoa farmers play in the countrys economy and the potential for growth through knowledge sharing in advanced farming techniques.



The objective of management is to empower our hard-working farmers by exposing them to global trends and building their confidence in the sector He emphasized.



The delegation is expected to return to Ghana on Thursday, June 27.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Atik Mohammed has expressed bitter sentiments over the sale of four hotels from SSNIT to Rock City Hotel, a company owned by the Minister for Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.



On Tuesday, June 18, scores of Ghanaian protesters including organized labour and some leading members of the opposition National Democratic Congress hit the streets in vehement protest against the sale.



The protesters wielding placards with inscriptions stating disgust over the sale and other economic issues under the Akufo-Addo administration marched in procession towards the seat of government resulting in a violent confrontation between them and the Police who prevented them from entering the Jubilee House.



The hotels in question include the Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort and Busua Beach Resort.



Discussing the matter during Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show, Atik Mohammed questioned the logic in SSNIT offloading 60% of its shares in the four hotels to Rock City arguing if the hotels are insolvent, it may be due to management lapses which therefore calls for a new management to revive the hotels.



"Why do you want to sell something that generates revenues for us because that's the money you use to pay pensioners? So, what would go into your head to want to sell a major asset like Labadi?...If the problem is management, what stops us from getting a good management...?", he questioned.



To Atik, the problem with SSNIT is partly largely because the Heads are politically appointed, so they fall for the political pressure instead of protecting the interest of the pensioners whose money they are using to run the institution on their (pensioners) behalf.



"The leadership or the Heads of SSNIT should not be political appointees," he told host Kwami Sefa Kayi.



Watch video below





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Global Media Alliance (GMA), a leading communications agency, in partnership with Women in PR Ghana (WiPR-Ghana) and Samsung, has held an interactive masterclass on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for women Public Relations practitioners. This forms part of activities marking this years World Public Relations Day Festival (WPRD Festival).



Held at Buro Workspace in Accra, the masterclass empowered over 40 participants by providing a comprehensive education on key areas of AI such as the Ethical Use of AI, AI Tools for PR Practitioners, and Generative AI.



The training also gave an overview of AI technologies, AIs application to crisis management, and its role in enhanced communication strategies. Key facilitators were Chief Executive Officer of rAIma Rashida Musa; Philip Kofi Ashon, Communications and Digital Expert; and Kobby Spiky Nkrumah, Group Head of EIB Digital.



Philip Ashon dedicated a significant portion of his lectures to ethical considerations of using AI in public relations. He discussed the importance of transparency, data privacy, and the need to avoid biases in AI algorithms.



Mr Ashon took participants through ways in which they can adopt ethical guidelines and best practices in using AI in their field of work.



Kobby Nkrumah highlighted how AI technologies are transforming crisis management in public relations. He educated attendees on analytic tools that can predict potential PR crises by analyzing social media trends and sentiments.



He emphasized how PR professionals can generate content using AI and the significance of prompt engineering for AI. Key elements of effective prompts, Kobby Nkrumah said, include clarity, context, and specificity, ensuring the AI produces relevant and high-quality content.



Chief Executive Officer of rAIma, Rashida Musa provided an in-depth look at various AI tools that are enhancing communication in public relations. Some of the tools highlighted were AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants, which provide instant customer service and engagement, ensuring 24/7 communication capabilities.



Rashida Musa mentioned and discussed how automated AI content-generated platforms can enhance the work of PR practitioners in the areas of communication strategies, presentations, infographics, and press releases amongst others while saving time and ensuring consistency in messaging.



Rashida also spoke about AI prompt essentials, emphasizing the importance of crafting clear and contextually rich prompts to achieve desired outcomes.



In her welcoming remarks, the Chief Director of Global Media Alliance, Ms. Emma Wenani underscored the importance of equipping women in PR with cutting-edge tools and knowledge.



She stated: The integration of AI into public relations is not just a technological advancement; it's a paradigm shift that PR professionals have embraced.



By leveraging AI, we can foresee challenges, communicate more effectively, and uphold the highest ethical standards. This masterclass is a testament to our commitment to empowering women in PR to lead this transformation. We are very proud that together with Women in PR and Samsung Ghana, we are shaping the future of our industry," said Emma Wenani.



On her part, the Head of Events at WiPR-Ghana, Edinam Adjei-Sika, expressed satisfaction and elation at the successful AI Masterclass for women in PR.



The AI Masterclass for Women in Public Relations was an outstanding success, providing attendees with valuable insights and practical tools to enhance their professional capabilities.



According to Edinam, as AI continues to evolve, such initiatives are crucial in ensuring that PR professionals are well-equipped to navigate the dynamic landscape of modern communication. At Women in PR, we are committed to creating and supporting initiatives that promote the professional development of women in PR, and no doubt this masterclass has contributed to our organizations objective. We wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Global Media Alliance for partnering with us and we look forward to more opportunities to partner for a positive impact.



Headline sponsors of the event Samsung underscored the relevance of AI in improving the lives of people as well as Samsungs commitment to impacting lives through AI.



We're thrilled to sponsor an event that empowers women, aligning with our mission to make a positive impact on people's lives. Our latest flagship, the Galaxy S24, is a testament to this commitment, harnessing the power of AI to simplify and enhance daily life, said Tracy Kyei, Head of Marketing at Samsung.



Michael Kwadade-Cudjoe, Retail Lead & Mobile Testing Engineer, and Ishmael Leo Al-Hassan, Master Trainer at Samsung Ghana showcased how Galaxy AI, equipped with cutting-edge features such as Live Translate, is revolutionizing the way individuals communicate globally, transcending language barriers, and fostering seamless connections.



The World Public Relations Day Festival is a series of events held to bring PR professionals together to have a unified global agenda towards making the world understand and utilize PR better.



This year's festival features a series of events including slush events, masterclass programmes, virtual thought leadership sessions, an industry mixer, and the main summit. The Festival touches on key areas such as Sustainability PR, Storytelling, Arts, Artificial Intelligence, Tourism, and Political Communication.



With a special focus on AI and Sustainability PR, this years festival will explore the impact of AI and Sustainability in shaping communication strategies for brands, organisations, and individuals.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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

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The Ministry of the Interior has issued a directive to private security organizations, instructing them to cease the use of unauthorized uniforms.



A press release signed by the Chief Director at the Ministry, Mrs. Doreen P. Annan said it was revealed that two individuals were recently arrested by police for breaching regulations governing private security organizations. The Ministry emphasized that such violations would not be tolerated.



The individuals were found wearing unapproved uniforms resembling military attire, which contravenes the Police Service (Private Security Organisations) Regulations, 1992 (LI.1571) and the Police Service Organisations (Amendment) Regulations, 1994 (L.I.1579). The arrested persons were granted bail, and the Ministry indicated that necessary sanctions would be applied to the company employing them.



The release highlighted the approved uniforms for private security personnel: white long/short sleeve shirts with ash khaki trousers featuring white stripes on both sides, cream long/short-sleeved shirts with brown khaki trousers featuring cream stripes on both sides, mauve long/short sleeve shirts with maroon trousers featuring mauve stripes on both sides, and yellow shirts with ash/grey reflectors over brown khaki trousers (specific to Mines and Oil fields).



The Ministry urged all private security organizations to adhere to these regulations by wearing only the approved uniforms and operating within their legal limits to avoid sanctions.



While acknowledging the vital role private security organizations play in complementing national security services, the Ministry stressed that it would not compromise on regulations designed to ensure the safety and security of all Ghanaians.



Read the entire statement below;



PRESS RELEASE



MINISTRY OF THE INTERIOR TO CRACK DOWN ON UNAUTHORISED PRIVATE SECURITY UNIFORMS

Jun 18, 2024



Accra, GhanaJune 18, 2024: The Ministry of the Interior wishes to caution all Private Security Organisations using unauthorised uniforms to desist from that or will be arrested by the Police and face the law.



As part of the Ministrys efforts to regulate the industry, on Friday, June 14, 2024, the Ministry through the Ghana Police Service, arrested two individuals for violating regulations governing private security organisations in Ghana. The individuals were found wearing unprescribed uniforms similar to the Military uniform, contrary to the regulations outlined in the Police Service (Private Security Organisations) Regulations, 1992 (LI.1571) and the Police Service Organisations (Amendment) Regulations, 1994 (L.I.1579).



The arrested officers were granted bail by the Police and the Ministry will apply the necessary sanctions against the company involved.



It is important to note that per the regulations, the approved uniforms for private security personnel are:



1. White long/short sleeve shirts over a pair of ash khaki trousers with white stripes on both sides.

2. Cream long/short-sleeved shirts over brown khaki trousers with cream stripes on both sides.

3. Mauve long/short sleeve shirts over a pair of maroon trousers with mauve stripes on both sides.

4. Yellow shirts with ash/grey reflectors across the back and front over brown khaki trousers (solely for the Mines and Oil fields).



It is also important to note that in 2023, the Ministry of the Interior began a nationwide sensitisation and monitoring exercise to ensure compliance with these regulations and their operations. Since then, the Ministry has been closely monitoring private security organisations to ensure adherence to the regulations.



The Ministry cautions all Private Security Organisations to comply with the regulations, wear only the approved uniforms and operate within their limit otherwise the Police will arrest and act against any organisation or individuals who fail to comply with the regulations and face the law.



The Ministry understands and appreciates the critical role private security organisations play in complementing the role of the Security Services in Ghana. However, the Ministry will not compromise the regulations designed to ensure the safety and security of all Ghanaians.



The Ministry of the Interior will continue to create a safe and secure environment for all Ghanaians and is committed to working with the private security industry to achieve this goal.



End



MRS DOREEN P. ANNAN



CHIEF DIRECTOR



FOR: MINISTER FOR THE INTERIOR

Source: graphiconline.com









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The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has cautioned citizens not to take the freedom of worship they were enjoying in the country for granted.



He urged them to continue praying to God to sustain the prevailing peace in the nation, especially as the country prepares for the December 7 general election this year. The Speaker was speaking at the Ashanti Regional version of Ghana Prays, a national interdenominational initiative spearheaded by the Speaker to pray for a peaceful election in the country at the Calvary Charismatic Centre at Ayigya in the Oforikrom Municipality last Monday.



It was on the theme: Ghana shall rise again. They prayed for a peaceful election and dedicated the country to the hands of God to preserve the peace and stability during the electioneering.



Concerns

Mr Bagbin expressed concern over disturbances at some Electoral Commission offices in the country during the just-ended limited voter registration exercise and wondered what would happen during the December poll.



He, therefore, reiterated the call on citizens to remain prayerful and commit the election into the hands of God to preserve the peace in the country before, during and after the election.



The Speaker said politicians would continue to do their best, but added that without Gods intervention, nothing could be achieved for the betterment of the nation. It is only God who can help our beloved country to rise again. I want to call on all of you to believe, to have faith and to continue to help ensure the nation rises again, he said.



Get involved

The Head Pastor of CCC, Ransford Obeng, urged Christians to get involved in issues of governance and also endeavour to pray for the President and politicians to help them steer the affairs of the nation successfully to improve the lives of citizens.



He said if the nations affairs were left in the hands of the two dominant political parties - the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), there would be chaos in the country.



Pastor Obeng, therefore, urged his colleagues not to cease praying, but to take their rightful place in the scheme of affairs and intensify their call on God for a successful general election in December.

Source: graphiconline.com









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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has condemned the invasion of Russia on your Ukraine stationg the enormous food insecurity the action has brought on poor countries on the globe.



President Akufo-Addo, in a Peace Summit held in Switzerland by Ukraine, stated that, the consequences of the invasion go far beyond the confines of Europe.



He added that, the continent of Africa has suffered severely as a result of the unrest in the two countries, thus, Russia and Ukraine.



President Akufo-Addo made a clarion call on China and Russia to join in the Peace Summit in order to find a lasting resolution to the seemingly unending war, which has claimed so many lives and destroyed several properties and government installations.



He said, If were ever going to arrive at a definitive settlement, then China and Russia must join in the Peace talks.



In stating Ghanas position in the ongoing war, President Akufo-Addo stated that, Ghana opposes great power hegemony and the bullying of small states by big powers. It is in this context that we view and continue to view Russias invasion and acts of aggression.



Eighty countries, including Ukraine, and four European institutions signed the final joint communique of the Switzerland peace summit on June 16, according to a Kyiv Independent reporter on the ground.



The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky called on China to join in developing the peace talks which is paramount to ending the war in his country.



China could help us, Zelensky told reporters, adding that though it had close ties with the Kremlin, Ukraine never said that China is our enemy. I always say that Ukraine has only one enemy: Putin.



Throughout the full-scale invasion, sales of oil and other hydrocarbons to China and India have become the primary source of funds for Russias state budget and war effort.





Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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The NDC Member of Parliament(MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa will be leading a demonstration today in Accra in protest against the sale of four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel, owned by Food and Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong.



The 60 percent stake in the hotels' sale to businessman cum politician has been questioned by Organised Labour and other stakeholders.



The leader of the protest, Mr Ablakwa told Citi News in an interview that they would force the government to terminate the deal.



If Bryan Acheampong has the expertise and capacity to turn hotels around, he is sitting in cabinet, why doesnt he bring that to bear so that we can turn these hotels around if indeed they are turning it around to benefit us all?



Why is it that he will only bring his expertise to bear when he has bought it when he now has controlling shares of 60 percent, he stands to benefit directly as the sole shareholder of Rock City. I mean, how can you explain this? So what is he doing in the cabinet? Why are we paying him?



It is clear that this is all about state capture, and that is why all of us must rise up. If the numbers are massive, and I have no doubt that we are going to have a massive turnout, we will send a very clear message to the president that enough of the state capture, he said.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman/peacefmonline.com









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The Ukrainian government has organised a two-day Peace Summit in Switzerland where about hundred (100) attendees across the world were present to partake in the peace summit. Among the attendees is Ghanas President, Nana Addo Danquah Akufo-Addo.



During the summit, President Akufo-Addo stated that, the war which began in February 2022, has led to hike in food prices on the world market, leading to a corresponding effect on the African market.



President Akufo-Addo addressing the attendees of the summit on Sunday, June 16, 2024, emphasized that the mission to seek a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine is rooted in the principles of international law and the UN Charter, adding that the, African continent has been severely affected by the Russian/Ukraine War.



He said, We are facing additional strains on vulnerable economies and struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The blockade of the Black Sea has led to severe shortages and skyrocketing food prices, precipitating a food security crisis across Africa."



This has resulted in a surge in the cost of living and a looming threat of hunger and malnutrition over the continents most vulnerable populations. The repercussions of the war extend far beyond Ukraine, threatening global stability and economic security.



President Akufo-Addo posited that, sustainable peace is built on open, honest, and inclusive dialogue adding that by reaffirming the commitment to the rule of law, respect for national sovereignty, and protection of human rights, the Summit provided an opportunity to bridge divides and lay the groundwork for a lasting peace on the globe.



He said, The Ukraine Peace Formula, which includes the cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of foreign troops, and restoration of Ukraines territorial integrity, stands as a critical framework for achieving lasting peace.



Speaking at the Summit on Sunday, the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that the ongoing impasse between Ukraine and Russia will not end because the Russian President, Vladimir Putin will not end the war, hence, must be stopped.



According to President Zelensky, the Western aid was not enough to win the war.

Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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A former Deputy General-Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Obiri Boahen, has said Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) should be elected for the nation to tackle the problem of underdevelopment at the local level.



The election of the MMDCEs will not only strengthen the local government system but also further provide a louder voice to the local level in the decision making process, and thereby facilitate accelerated development in communities.



Nana Boahen said he strongly believed in the NPPs Election 2024 flag bearer, Alhaji Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, and expressed the hope that his government would therefore make it a reality in the country.



"I will highly be disappointed if Dr Bawumia's government fails to make this vision a reality in the first term of office, the former NPP Deputy General-Secretary, and a legal practitioner told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview in Sunyani.



"If the masses are given the chance to elect them, the MMDCEs will be more accountable and they will not have the chance to take them for granted and do what they like as some are doing at the local level," he stated.



Partisanship

Nana Boahen said it was rather unfortunate that some Ghanaians and ambitious politicians continued to engage in partisan politics in issues of national development because of their selfish and personal interests.



Nana Boahen said he was worried that Ghana had come far in her democratic processes, from 1992 to 2024, yet the nation was still lagging in development, saying "until we allow national interest to override or supersede our personal or ambitious gains we can't develop as anticipated."



Visionary

Describing the Vice-President, Dr Bawumia, the NPP 2024 flag bearer, as a credible and "good material", the former NPP scribe said everybody had his or her choice of political party, "we must understand each other, build consensus and rally behind Dr Bawumia because his vision for the nation is great."



"A visionary and credible leader with integrity endeavours to bring people together, irrespective of their religious differences and that is exactly what the Vice-President is doing now.



For the purposes of development, let's try and bury our political inclinations and orientations for the next NPP government of Dr Bawumia to bring the development of the nation to the next level," he stated.

Source: GNA









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Bernard Allotey Jacobs is delighted about the union of Kennedy Agyapong, the Assin Central lawmaker and main contender in the NPP presidential elections, and Vice President and flagbearer of the party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.



The duo were seen together during Bawumia's campaign tour of the Ashanti Region which marked the last of his tours in the sixteen Regions of Ghana.



Both Kennedy Agyapong and Dr. Bawumia were spotted excitedly engaging in the street-to-street and house-to-house engagements with the people and Mr. Agyapong played active role in the campaign itinerary in the Region.



Allotey Jacobs, a former NDC Central Regional Chairman, expressed his joy that Kennedy Agyapong has joined the Bawumia's campaign team and negated the perceptions that some people have about Mr. Agyapong's character and personality.



"He is full of surprises...Sometimes, don't look at his temperament but rather he has a big heart for a lot of things, for the good, the bad, even the ugly," he said on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show.



Watch video below





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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

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Nigerian rapper Folarin Falana popularly called Falz, is best known for his critical songs that address bad leadership and societal ills.



However, his latest EP titled, Before the Feast which he released last week is a total departure from the norm. Falz decided to take a different route this time following his transformative musical journey.



In a chat with Saturday Vanguard, the son of renowned human rights activist, Femi Falana SAN, said, I didnt want to soak my fans in that emotion now. But it doesnt mean that I have changed from who I am.



Recall that Falz was involved in the #EndSARS protest against police brutality in October 2020. He also released songs such as Wehdone Sir, Child of the World, Talk, Mr Yakubu among others. His new project marks another milestone in Falzs illustrious career, showcasing his growth as an artist and his commitment to delivering impactful music.



As he explained, Before The Feast is a prequel to an album titled The Feast. The EP sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting and transformative journey in Falzs musical evolution. Falz, known for his unique blend of witty lyrics, social commentary, and diverse musical styles, continues to push boundaries with Before The Feast, featuring big names, including Crayon, Shaybo, Phyno, Adekunle Gold, Flavour, and Odumodublvck.



Except:



You just dropped a new EP titled Before the Feast. Whats the story behind the title?



Before the Feast, is a prequel to an album titled The Feast. This is like the first step in a long journey. The album will drop in the coming months. The EP is what I call a palate cleanser. When you go to a restaurant, they will first of all give you a palate cleanser to enable you to take in whatever they are about to serve you. Thats what Im trying to do with this project. You cannot deny the fact that we need a breadth of fresh air musically. What I am trying to do with Before the Feast is to come in a way that is energetic and at the same time reflective of where I am going. I am going to a place sonic-wise, where you will listen to a good sound. I want to soak my fans in those emotions. So, Before the Feast is a blend of vibes, lively music, up tempo, rock and sexy songs.



The unique thing about this EP is that so much work has gone into it in a short while. The total duration of this EP is not up to 30 minutes. It contains so many vibes. Its also a mixture of emotions. Another thing is that this is the only project I have done that I can boldly say theres no iota of attack or commentary as regards the happenings in the country. This is deliberate because of the theme and the direction of the journey. It would have been out of place. Thats definitely what differentiates this EP from my previous albums.



How will you describe your musical journey in the past 10 years?



Its been very exciting and exhilarating. I feel that its been very fast. I didnt realize it until I woke up this year. Its been very eventful and fulfilling. A lot has happened in the past 10 years of my career. I will say that I am very satisfied with where I am today, but I am still hungry for more.



Are you also a trained lawyer?



I was actually called to the bar in 2012. And for about two years after, I was into full-time practice as I was going to court.



How come music took the shine off your legal practice?



Music took over at a point when I started getting this level of acclamation. I felt people would be distracting me if I kept going to court. Also, I knew that music is my passion, and my calling.



Will you one day go back to the courtroom?



I dont want to rule out returning to the courtroom. But I dont know when it will happen.



You have always been vocal when it comes to defending the rights of the common man through your music. Whats happening now that you havent added your voice in the face of prevailing economic hardship in the country?



My stand is not because I want to be cankerous or bearer of complaints. At the end of the day, it is for the good of the people. If the people are maltreated or they are not getting what they should be getting from their leaders, those are the moments I speak out. That would never stop. Activism will always be a part of me. But musically, I dont want to have that emotion in my current EP. Outside the music, nothing changes. I am still who I am.



Whats your take on the present economic situation in the country?



Its tough. I think everyone is feeling the hardship. But I wouldnt say that I expected anything different, especially in the way they got into power. Everything unfolded before our eyes. And so, I am not surprised by everything that is happening in the country today. We are kind of hoping that we would be surprised that things will go well again. I guess, they didnt surprise us.

Source: vanguard









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Ghanaian-American-based Archbishop Kofi Adonteng Boateng has conferred Reverend Minister status on celebrated Ghanaian Gospel musician, Great Ampong for his dedication to spreading the word of God through music and serving the Christian community.



The ordination took place during Great Ampongs visit to Archbishop Kofi Adonteng Boatengs church in the United States of America.



During the ordination ceremony at the church, Archbishop Adonteng Boateng took the opportunity to encourage Great Ampong to publicly apologize to those he had offended in the past, particularly his fellow musician, Daddy Lumba, and he did.



Great Ampong, known for his soul-inspiring gospel songs, has been a prominent figure in Ghanas Gospel music industry for about two decades.



He has many hit songs including; Hossana, Akoko Funu, and Style Bia bi, among others. This new role marks a significant milestone in his spiritual journey and ministry.









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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By Chad Umble, LNP, Lancaster, Pa. (TNS)

Five longtime Lancaster County tourist attractions are in the midst of changes that include construction and rebuilding projects. Heres the latest.

A fire at Hershey Farm Restaurant & Inn on the 200 block of Hartman Bridge Road, in Strasburg Township, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023. (Photo submitted by Drew Shumaker, file)

Hershey Farm Resort

Construction is almost done on the larger Hershey Farm restaurant that will replace the restaurant that was destroyed in a January 2023 fire. The business was expected to open in May, but some construction delays pushed back the opening date for the Strasburg Township restaurant. It is expected to debut this summer.

A June 4 post on Hershey Farm Resorts Facebook page said an announcement of an opening date was anticipated within the next two weeks for a summer launch.

The new Hershey Farm restaurant is a barn-like white building in three sections that will feature a smorgasbord offering traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare. With seating for 450, the new restaurant at 240 Hartman Bridge Road is slightly bigger than the previous one and when completed will have a 50-seat cafe, a large central lobby and a connection to the adjacent hotel.

Amos the Amishman, a 15-foot-tall fiberglass statue across a driveway from the restaurant entrance, was not damaged in the fire and has remained at his spot. The statue originally stood outside the former Zinns Diner near Denver.

One person died after an explosion in December 2023 at the Bird-in-Hand Family Inn at 2740 Old Philadelphia Pike in Leacock Township, Lancaster County. (Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com, file)Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

Bird-in-Hand

Bird-in-Hand Corp. is managing a pair of rebuilding projects following a Dec. 18 explosion that killed a longtime employee and leveled an office building at the Leacock Township inn, and a Jan. 30 fire that damaged part of the nearby restaurant.

About three-quarters of Bird-in-Hand Family Inns 125 rooms have reopened, but an office building and some suites are still being rebuilt. The reconstruction got a jump start in early June during a three-day barn raising when workers framed the building, installed trusses and added the roof during an event that included a daily luncheon for workers and hotel guests.

Terry Buda Moser, a spokesperson for Bird-in-Hand Corp., said the rooms are slated to be done by the end of August and work on the office and lobby should wrap up in October.

Architectural plans and final permits are still being secured for rebuilding the restaurant at 2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, so Buda said there was not yet a timeline for reopening.

In the meantime, Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord has temporarily moved to the former Revere Tavern at 3063 Lincoln Highway in Paradise Township. The Bird-in-Hand Stage, which operated in a banquet hall in the lower level of the restaurant, has moved to a venue at the Revere Tavern.

The Dutch Haven bakery in Lancaster, Pa. (Mark Pynes | mpynes@pennlive.com, 2016)HAR

Dutch Haven

Dutch Haven, the windmill-roofed shoofly bakery at 2857 Lincoln Highway East, is operating normally this year after being closed for most of last year while its owner sought a buyer.

In January 2023, owner Paul Stahl announced the closure of the East Lampeter Township bakery and gift shop that catered to tourists. But after being unable to find a buyer, Stahl partially reopened the bakery in the fall and has resumed managing it. Dutch Haven is open every day except Wednesday.

Stahl is now the sole owner of Dutch Haven, which he bought in 1991 with some partners. Stahl said he would still like to sell the property and will likely list it sometime this summer with a real estate agent.

Sight & Sound Theatres

Behind its 2,100-seat main theater building at 300 Hartman Bridge Road in Strasburg Township, Sight & Sound is beginning work on a storage building that is slated to be ready next spring. The 19,000-square-foot building will be used to store large sets for Sight & Sound shows.

The building is the second section of an expansion Sight & Sound planned nearly 20 years ago but did not finish because of the 2008 opening of its theater in Branson, Missouri, where there is storage space for old sets. The new building will fit in a spot at the back of the complex that had been excavated for it in 2005.

A Panera Bread is under construction at the Shops @ Rockvale. (Photo provided, file)Photo provided

Shops at Rockvale

New Jersey-based Fernmoor Homes, which bought the Shops at Rockvale in 2022, has been consolidating stores at the Route 30 shopping center in East Lampeter Township ahead of plans to replace some retail buildings with nearly 500 apartments.

Demolition is expected to begin late this summer on an empty retail building at the back of the property, west of South Willowdale Drive. In its place, Fernmoor Homes will put up four apartment buildings with 128 total apartments. Dubbed Mi-Place @ Rockvale, the apartments are expected to be ready in the beginning of 2026. As construction begins on the first apartments, municipal approvals will be sought for the rest of the residential buildings.

The first new building to debut as part of Fernmoors makeover plans at Rockvale will be a Panera Bread set to open early this fall at Route 30 and South Willowdale Drive. The restaurant replaces a building that was torn down last year and used to be the home of Rockvale Diner and Bob Evans.
Public school advocates are calling on state officials to investigate Pennsylvanias largest cyber charter school, Commonwealth Charter Academy, claiming it conceals information from the public and wastes taxpayer money.

Education Voters of Pennsylvania, a pro-public education nonprofit, sent a letter to Pennsylvania Auditor General Timothy DeFoor on Monday asking him to open a forensic audit of Commonwealth Charter Academy. The school, which is headquartered in Harrisburg and has more than 24,000 students throughout the state, was last investigated by the state in 2012.

With no state oversight of this organizations spending for so many years, the opportunities for waste, fraud and abuse are staggering, wrote Susan Spicka, executive director of Education Voters of Pennsylvania.

April Hutcheson, a spokesperson for DeFoors office, said the office is auditing cyber charter schools but would not say whether Commonwealth Charter Academy is part of that audit or when the audit will be completed, as the office does not provide details about ongoing investigations.

At a Tuesday press conference, Spicka was joined by Eric Epstein, founder of the government watchdog group Rock the Capital, and Tim Potts, a former Carlisle Area School District board member and longtime public education advocate, who each detailed grievances about Commonwealth Charter Academy. Their complaints included that the school:

Had more than $222 million in cash on hand in April, information it excluded from public board materials.

Spent over $450K on marketing costs in April.

Redacted from its board materials information on 380 vendors, to whom it paid a total of more than $180K.

Spent nearly $80K on legal and lobbying costs in one month.

Approved more than $50 million in construction costs in April and May.

Timothy Eller, Commonwealth Charter Academys senior vice president of outreach and government relations, called the press conference and letter to DeFoor an orchestrated attack and political grandstanding.

It is widely known that Education Voters of Pennsylvania is funded by anti-school choice organizations that want to dictate to families where their children are to be educated, Eller wrote in an emailed statement.

Eller said Commonwealth Charter Academy follows all public school laws, including annual reports and audits, and responds to all Right-to-Know requests and, as permitted by law, will withhold from public disclosure any and all information that would violate the statutorily protected privacy of our students, families and staff.

The complaints against Commonwealth Charter Academy are the latest in a yearslong political battle over charter schools in Pennsylvania. Charter school advocates say the schools provide a much-needed alternative to public schools that fail to meet many students needs; public school advocates say charter schools drain money from public schools that are already under-resourced.

Education Voters of Pennsylvania also sent a letter to state legislators on Monday, echoing its concerns about Commonwealth Charter Academy and asking the Senate to pass a bill that would limit the amount of funding school districts must pay to charter schools per student. The proposed legislation made it through the House on June 10.

PennLives Jan Murphy contributed to this report.
Indiana University of Pennsylvanias quest to raise $103 million to fund its proposed medical school is gaining momentum.

The university on Monday received its largest contribution to date when the schools non-profit fundraising foundation committed $20 million to support the proposed college of osteopathic medicine.

We firmly believe that this project will move the university forward and solidify IUPs position as one of the leading institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania, said foundation board President Regina Stover.

That same day, U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., announced he included a request for $2 million for the project on his priorities list for the Fiscal year 2025 Community Project Funding process. U.S. Rep. Guy Reschenthaler, R-Pa., requested a similar amount on his priority list for community projects funding as well.

This is very promising news, and we continue to appreciate Congressman Reschenthaler and Senator Fettermans ongoing support for IUPs proposed college of osteopathic medicine, said university President Michael Driscoll in a statement. IUP is very fortunate to have legislators who recognize the importance of this project for the commonwealth and beyond and are true champions for the project and for IUP.

The proposed medical school, endorsed by university trustees in December 2022, hopes to draw students from rural areas with a goal of having them practice in rural areas where there is a serious shortage of doctors, said Dr. Miko Rose, who was hired in November to serve as its dean. In having the state-owned university operating the school, the goal is to make attaining a medical degree more affordable.

IUP takes its responsibility to serve the commonwealth as a change agent very seriously, and we are ready to help to address the critical shortage of physicians in Pennsylvania through the establishment of the first college of osteopathic medicine at a public university in the state, Driscoll said.

The project already received a $150,000 allocation in the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2024, which was sponsored by Fetterman and Reschenthaler and signed into law by President Joe Biden on March 9. Additionally, it has received $500,0000 from IUPs Alumni Association; a pledge of $1 million from a 1983 alumnus and board member Rich Caruso and $40,000 from alumni Nick Jacobs and Mary Ann Hoysan Jacobs.

Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman, R-Indiana County, also directed $2 million to the project in the 2023-24 state budget to help fund the project.

Pennsylvania has three colleges of osteopathic medicine, all at private universities. According to the university, national studies show that osteopathic medicine graduates are more likely to pursue primary care in rural and underserved areas57% of all doctors of osteopathic medicine practice as general practitioners, and more than 20% of them practice in rural areas.

Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on X at @JanMurphy.
Things are not going well between country music star Billy Ray Cyrus and his estranged wife Firerose.

News broke late last week that Cyrus filed a motion in a Tennessee court seeking an emergency temporary restraining order against her. And now, we find out that she fired back in a court filing of her own.

According to People Magazine, Firerose claims that Cyrus filed for divorce last month just a day before she was set to have a preventative double mastectomy. The site said she made the filing in Tennessee on June 14.

People said that the 36-year-old discovered she had the BRCA1 gene mutation which gave her an increased chance of getting breast cancer, and in March doctors highly recommended she have the procedure done to prevent that from happening.

But she reportedly said in her filing that chaos ensued at home as her surgery date grew near and that Cyrus continually launched verbal attacks against her. People said it reached out to Cyrus representatives, but they had no comment.

When Wife would attempt to voice certain concerns, Husband would often call her a selfish (expletive) and continually alleged that she was using him, the filing said per People. With Wifes major surgery date looming, she was reasonably afraid to leave or seek any type of help because she feared hat Husband would interfere with her surgery or her lengthy recovery at home.

The report said she also accused Cyrus of extreme verbal, emotional and psychological abuse. It said she also accused him of having substance abuse issues and that causes him to be unpredictable and volatile.

Cyrus, 62, filed for divorce on May 23. Firerose said she was scheduled for surgery on May 24.

In his request for an emergency restraining order last week, Cyrus sought to stop Firerose from unauthorized use of his credit cards and bank accounts.

People reported that Cyrus claimed that Firerose ran up $96,986 in unauthorized charges on his business account. The site reported that Cyrus claims $70,665 of that went to payments for her lawyers. Cyrus claimed that the charges made him concerned that she may make other fraudulent, unauthorized charges to my business and personal credit cards and accounts.

When he filed for divorce, Cyrus listed irreconcilable differences and inappropriate marital conduct as his reason, per People. The couple was reportedly married for just seven months.

Through her attorneys, Firerose has denied that she made any fraudulent charges, according to People.

Throughout the divorce proceedings, the parties are to live as per the status quo during the marriage, her lawyers reportedly argued. Wife was simply living as she has since October 10, 2023, and Husband has no right to cut her off.

People did report that Cyrus and Firerose did agree when he filed for divorce that she would move out of his home immediately, and that he would provide financial support for her for 90 days or until the dissolution of the marriage, whichever comes first.
A Lancaster City restaurant that reopened two years ago under new ownership is closing later this month.

The Pressroom Restaurant at 26-28 W. King St. is serving its final meals on June 22, according to a news release from owners ONE Hospitality Group.

The group took over the iconic restaurant in 2022 from LNP Media Group, a former subsidiary of Steinman Communications. The restaurant opened in 1995 at the site of the original Steinman Hardware Store established in the 1740s.

Were incredibly disappointed to announce the closure of The Pressroom, said Toni Calderone, owner of ONE Hospitality Group in the announcement. Weve enjoyed serving the Lancaster community and wish we could have continued to work on perfecting our offering in this amazing space. We are grateful we had the opportunity to serve you.

The group reopened the restaurant in August 2022 with an elevated American bistro menu and The Beat jazz club in the restaurants Publishers Room.

ONE Hospitality operates several brands including Tutonis Restaurant in York and Presto! Fast Italian.

ONE Hospitality said the restaurant will remain open through June 22 under the following hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Three children were in critically stable condition at a hospital after a home collapsed Tuesday afternoon on Syracuses North Side, officials said.

Eleven people were hospitalized after the collapse at 205 Carbon St., officials said. All were in stable condition, except for the three youngest victims: a 9-month-old, 2-year-old and 3-year-old, District Chief Matthew Craner, a spokesperson for the Syracuse Fire Department, said at a Wednesday morning news conference.

A family of seven people rented the home, Mayor Ben Walsh said. A family of six, also from Syracuse, was visiting at the time of the collapse, he said. All were accounted for.

National Grid is on scene and working to determine whether gas played any part in the collapse, Craner said. Heavy equipment is being brought in to perform testing at the home, he said, which must be completed before city investigators can get back into the home to continue their work.

Craner said investigators believe there was an explosion at the home due to the severity of the damage. They are working to determine what caused it, he said.

They also believe a car found under the rubble did not crash into the home or cause the collapse, Craner said, and was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Firefighters had rescued a child from the car.

Multiple people called 911 shortly after 4 p.m. Tuesday to report what sounded like an explosion. Two neighbors told Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard that their homes shook.

Firefighters found downed power lines and a heavy odor of natural gas when they arrived, officials previously said. Multiple people were already in the front yard outside the home, they said.

Firefighters worked to shore up the remaining structure before specially trained crews went inside to search for any people who were trapped. They spent 45 minutes searching and found no one.

The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control in Albany sent a team of search dogs to comb through the rubble, firefighters said. A cadaver dog was brought in by the state police.

Walsh said he was relieved to hear that most of the victims were in stable condition, but cautioned that were not out of the woods yet.

Walsh added that he was grateful for the efforts of first responders, as well as neighbors who pitched in to help people at the scene of the collapse.

The two-bedroom, one-bathroom home was constructed in 1920, according to county records. It is owned by Minh C. Tran, of Liverpool, N.Y., records show.

There were no active code violations for the home as of Tuesday afternoon, according to city records.

Walsh said the city plans to demolish what remains of the home once all investigations are completed.

Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or rkirk@syracuse.com.

Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7.
CHICAGO (AP)  A warehouse on Chicagos West Side has been destroyed by a massive fire, and two firefighters were injured while battling the flames, officials said.

Hundreds of firefighters responded after the fire broke out at the Commercial Pallet warehouse in West Town on Tuesday evening. The fire was fueled by high winds. A plume of black smoke that billowed over the neighborhood could be seen for miles.

Smoke fills the Chicago skyline from a fire on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. The warehouse on Chicago's West Side has been destroyed by a massive fire and two firefighters were injured while battling the flames, officials said. (WLS via AP)AP

Two firefighters were injured and transported to the hospital in good condition, Chicago Fire Department First District Chief Jim McDonough said. No warehouse employees were injured, McDonough said.

Emergency crews appeared to be leaving the scene around 6 a.m. Wednesday.

The fire department did not immediately respond to calls seeking comment on the blaze.

Authorities have released no information on the cause of the fire, but said the building was a total loss.

The blaze forced transportation authorities to halt commuter train service in the area. Chicagos Office of Emergency Management & Communications said the fire damaged some train tracks.
By Raymond Ragland, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS)

The Delaware County Government Center and Courthouse campus in Media was abuzz with activity yesterday but it wasnt the usual commotion of officials, lawyers, and visitors. The crew of HBOs miniseries Task, starring Marc Ruffalo, had taken over and transformed Courtroom 15.

The crew shot a pivotal scene inside the courthouse, and outside during the sunset, per a Facebook post from Delaware County Council.

The miniseries creator, Brad Ingelsby and director Jeremiah Zagar are from Philadelphia and since early March, the duo has been filming the series in Coatesville, Pa., Montgomery County, Delaware County, Chichester, Pa., and south Philadelphia.

While the sets were cordoned off for non-crew members, several county employees managed to meet Ruffalo. He even took selfies with several of them in the Delaware County courtroom office, the Facebook post said.

A Media borough spokesperson said the actors positive nature was appreciated by the staff. In limited time, the spokesperson added, his generosity enlivened the courtroom workspace and gave fans of the actor a memorable interaction theyll cherish.

The team from HBO planned extensively for the shoot, the spokesperson said, as they repurposed the courtroom for the miniseries which follows, as Ruffalo told Variety last year, a task force of law enforcement officers and the criminals they are trying to apprehend. The Task crew and the courthouse prepared for months and the productions redesign of the courtroom took several days, the spokesperson said.

With Task, Ingelsby is looking to follow up the success of the Philadelphia-based HBO miniseries Mare of Easttown, which starred Kate Winslet. The show concluded in early 2021 and may be coming back for a second season.

(c)2024 The Philadelphia Inquirer

Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.inquirer.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Gabina VOA is designed to be an infotainment youth radio show broadcasting to Ethiopia and Eritrea in the Amharic language. The show brings varied perspectives on issues concerning young people in the Horn of Africa region. Gabina in the Amharic language is a front-row taxi ride.
By Becca Raley

The United Nations Refugee Agency reported 117 million people were globally displaced at the end of 2023. Within this number, 36 million refugees have been forced to flee their homelands due to war, violence and persecution stemming from their race, religion, nationality, social group or political opinion. Acclaimed poet Warsan Shire explained the crisis best, No one leaves home unless home is the mouth of a shark.

In the aftermath of World War II, the United States came forward as one of 149 countries to support the Refugee Convention of 1951, establishing legal protections and pathways to assist refugees.

At Church World Service (CWS) in Harrisburg, my colleagues and I are proud to join with volunteers on the frontlines of welcoming new neighbors. From meeting families at the airport, to finding apartments, enrolling children in school and securing jobs, there are new beginnings every day. Refugees typically arrive with few belongings to call their own but the great hope of living in a peaceful nation where liberty, justice and equality are rooted in democracy.

With rarely enough hours in the day, funds, or human capacity to meet all the needs, resettlement is hard but deeply meaningful work. For my colleagues who escaped war-torn countries like Ukraine, Afghanistan, Somalia and Sudan, their lived experience as refugees fuels their dedication to our mission.

My own ethnic identity dissolved so long ago into our great melting pot that the reasons I serve feel distinctly American. My familys Irish and English heritage surfaces rarely, with maybe a green sweater or a corned beef and cabbage dinner on St. Patricks Day. But history books and epic films help me envision the desperation my ancestors must have faced when over a million Irish died of starvation and disease during the potato famine, and another two million Irish migrants journeyed across turbulent seas to arrive in ports along the east coast.

I wonder: Who helped them? Where did they live? How did they find work amidst foreboding signs that protested, No Irish Need Apply?

Yet I also imagine the warm hands of welcome from strangers who met my relatives with unexpected kindness. Today, Im still indebted to those hands as I aim to make them my own. In the 1970s and 80s, when my parents joined with their friends at St. Johns Episcopal Church to welcome Vietnamese and Somali refugee families, they quietly showed me: this is what we do as a family, as Americans, and as humanitarians. I still remember my dad beaming with pride the day he donated his favorite old station wagon to a large Somali familythe best set of wheels to get where you need to go!

In the face of displacement, the courage, resilience, talents and generosity of Harrisburgs new neighbors is stunningly bountiful. As newcomers, they arrive with open hearts, eager to share their beautiful traditions, cultures, foods and music. Our economy will be fueled for decades to come by their motivation to work hard and contribute.

Just as we welcome new friends into our communities, their spirit of hospitality to welcome us into their lives is powerfully humbling.

At CWS Harrisburg, this vibrant tradition of welcome is alive and well. We invite you to join with us in celebration of National Immigrant Heritage Month and World Refugee Day from noon- 3 p.m. Saturday, June 22 at Maclay & N. 2nd St., Harrisburg. CWS Harrisburgs World Refugee Day Block Party will feature free live multicultural performances, DJ Rocc B, a petting zoo, photo booth, kids activities and more!

Come and enjoy our Afghan Food Festival with free community tastings while supplies last.

As they say, one country, many peoplestogether, we are America.

Becca Raley is Associate Director of Integration at CWS-Harrisburg. The vision of CWS is a world where everyone has food, voice and a safe place to call home. There are many ways to volunteer, donate and become involved. To learn more, visit cwsharrisburg.org.
The Supreme Courts recent ruling, overturning the national ban on rapid-fire rifle bump stocks, is a blatant betrayal of any pro-life ethic the court claims to champion.

In their June 3, 2022 Letter to Congress on Gun Violence, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops explicitly calls for a total ban on assault weapons and limitations on civilian access to high-capacity weapons and ammunition magazines ... including a ban on bump stocks.

Data show that restrictions on high-capacity magazines and accessories like bump stocks can reduce the number of people killed in mass shootings by as much at 38%, and those injured by as much as 77%.

And yet, America continues to worship at the feet of idols wrought of cold steel. Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, reminds us, The Second Amendment did not come down from Sinai; the right to bear arms will never be more important than human life.

Thanks to the Supreme Court, the number of innocent people wounded, maimed and killed by gun violence will grow exponentially. Until we confront and condemn our culture of guns, pleas from politicians and preachers advocating a culture of life, ring hollow.

Deacon Keith G. Kondrich, Pittsburgh, Pa.
Despite widespread support from his party, a new poll suggests that presumptive Republican presidential nominee and former President Donald Trump is not the most popular GOP politician in America.

A recent poll by YouGov ranking the popularity among Republican politicians in and formerly in government showed that Trump ranked fourth with 43% of support from adults among Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennials combined.

The former president ranked third among Baby Boomers, fifth among Gen X, and sixth among Millennials.

Among adults overall, Trump is behind former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Dr. Ben Carson, at 44%, and former President George W. Bush at 47%. In the fifth spot behind Trump is former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin at 41%.

But the Republican who trumps over Trump hasnt said Ill be back to politics since 2011.

Former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, file)AP

At the top of the list is actor and former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who got 55% of the popularity vote among adults overall and won each generation demographic: 60% among Millennials and 50% among both Generation X and Baby Boomers.

The Governator also ranks well above President Joe Biden in YouGovs poll ranking the popularity of all American politicians, regardless of party. He ranks third at 55%, preceded by former President Barack Obama at second with 59%., and former President Jimmy Carter in first place with 61%. Behind Schwarzenegger is Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., with 52%.

Biden ranked 11th with 45%, followed by Trump in the 15th spot with a 43% popularity rating, according to the poll.

Among the most popular Democrats in a separate YouGov poll, Carter reigned supreme again with 61%, followed by Obama at 59% and Sanders, an independent, at 52%. Biden ranked ninth and was preceded by former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright in eighth, Vice President Kamala Harris in seventh, former President Bill Clinton sixth, U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., at fifth, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at fourth.
The House Republican leader is questioning the use of taxpayer resources to stage two recent Biden-Harris campaign events in the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex.

In a letter to General Services Secretary Reggie McNeil, Rep. Bryan Cutler, R-Lancaster County, wrote the use of official resources for campaign purposes is unethical and a violation of state and departmental policy.

As I am sure you are aware, the Department of General Services has limited the ability to hold political and campaign events with the use of DGS facilities and/or employees, he wrote in the letter.

A spokesman for General Services said the use of state resources are routinely used for events in the Capitol in accordance with a state law governing the exercise of First Amendment rights on state-owned property.

Spokesman Eric Veronikis further noted a policy statement governing the public areas of the Capitol Complex doesnt distinguish between political and non-political events.

The event Cutler took issue with was a June 5 outdoor rally on the Capitol steps that featured anti-Trump campaign signs and included two former U.S. Capitol police officers who were on duty during the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the nations Capitol along with Democrat lawmakers. At the event, Officer Harry Dunn and Sergeant Aquilino Gonell spoke of how former President Donald Trump has normalized political violence and spoke of a danger he would pose if allowed to return to the White House.

The two former officers later were welcomed on the Democratic-controlled House floor, which led to several Republican lawmakers walking out of the chamber while others jeered them. Cutler said in his letter the outdoor rally eased the ability of legislative Democratic leadership to then politicize proceedings of the House floor by inviting campaign surrogates to be recognized by members of the General Assembly.

Members of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus gathered outside Irvis Office Building in the Capitol Complex on June 11 to launch the Black Pennsylvanians for Biden-Harris Coalition. House GOP Leader Bryan Cutler is taking issue with the use of taxpayer-funded equipment and staff used to stage this event. Submitted photoSubmitted photo

Cutler also cited an event on June 11 organized and hosted by the Biden-Harris campaign and attended by Legislative Black Caucus outside the Irvis Office Building. Democratic leaders from both chambers participated to launch the Black Pennsylvanians for Biden-Harris Coalition. The event involved the use of Commonwealth Media Services rugs to cover the microphone cord but also had a General Services employee working the sound equipment.

Without a doubt, these two events utilized commonwealth  ultimately taxpayer  resources and employees in furtherance of clear campaign goals and political ends, Cutler wrote.

Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery County, who is chair of the Black caucus, didnt have a response to Cutlers concern other than to say, I dont know what Chair Cutler is thinking about or working on.

The Capitol steps have been used for GOP-backed events including the Jan. 5, 2021, Hear Us Roar rally intended to encourage state lawmakers to decertify Pennsylvanias vote for Biden in the November 2020 presidential election. Cutlers spokesman Jason Gottesman said while its unclear to him if taxpayer-paid resources were used to stage that event, a big difference between that event and the recent ones held by Democratic lawmakers is that 2020 election was over when that rally occurred.

State employees have gone to jail for allegedly participating in campaign work on state time, Gottesman said. Here, the Democrats, twice in two weeks, held campaign events in their role as Biden-Harris campaign surrogates using taxpayer-paid resources.

GOP strategist Charlie Gerow, who has participated in Republican events in the Capitol Rotunda and front steps of the Capitol over the years, said, There is certainly a legitimate question about the use of taxpayer money for political purposes. In fairness, Republicans have taken advantage of the rules regarding the Rotunda and the front steps in the same way Democrats have historically.

However, he agrees with Cutler regarding the invitation of the former police officers, who were political operatives, onto the House floor for recognition by the chamber.

It was at least very bad form, if not downright unethical, Gerow said.

Cutler said he respects the First Amendments guarantee of freedom of speech and expression but using these state resources for campaign purposes further erodes the faith and confidence taxpayers have in the use of their funded resources and the operation of their state government.

Philip Hensley-Robin, executive director of Common Cause Pennsylvania, said its fair if the rule regarding use of these public spaces and taxpayer-provided resources is applied impartially. However, he added, I do think there is a reasonable concern about explicitly partisan or campaign events using either a public space or resources provided with taxpayer dollars. So I think in order to avoid any perception of the possibility of using public funds for a partisan purpsoes that should be avoided when possible.

Veronikis, the DGS spokesman, said the organizers of the two events Cutler cited in his letter were not charged for the use of taxpayer-provided resources for their event. He said for events that do not require Capitol police presence or additional services beyond those offered to every event, there is no fee for organizers of events in the public areas of the Capitol Complex.

About that, Gottesman said, Taxpayers should be interested to know that their hard-earned money is routinely used by House Democrats to facilitate campaign events at the state Capitol.

Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on X at @JanMurphy.
While the first day of summer is just a day away, Pennsylvania and several surrounding states already are experiencing the hottest weather of 2024. Heres what forecasters with the National Weather Service are predicting for the week, which has already brought record-breaking temperatures to many parts of the country.

A heat advisory is in effect every day until Friday from noon to 8 p.m. for more than 25 Pennsylvania counties, including the entirety of central Pa.

The National Weather Service is calling for high temperatures in the 90s throughout this week and into the weekend. Credit: National Weather ServiceNational Weather Service

Forecasters are predicting the hottest temperatures of the week on Friday, with a high near 97 or 98 in and around Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Carlisle and Chambersburg. Friday also brings a 20% chance of rain showers and thunderstorms to the region, according to the National Weather Service.

Saturday and Sunday also have a chance to produce thunderstorms and showers, with between a 20% and 40% chance.

Leading up to Friday, cities in central Pa. will have high temperatures between 92 and 96 accompanied by calm winds.

Nighttime lows throughout central Pennsylvania are expected to stay in the high 60s to low 70s until the weekend, the National Weather Service said.

Read PennLives list of tips to stay safe and cool during the heat wave.

Several cities throughout the United States have broken temperature records during the heat wave, including Chicago, which saw a high of 97 degrees on Monday, according to the Associated Press.
Thursday is the 2024 summer solstice, an astronomical event that marks the beginning of the summer season.

What is the summer solstice?

The summer solstice occurs when the sun travels north in its path, according to the Old Farmers Almanac.

At that time, the Earth reaches a point in its orbit where the North Pole is at its highest tilt toward the sun.

When that happens, its summer for the northern hemisphere. ln the southern hemisphere, its the start of winter.

The almanac states that the summer solstice starts at 4:51 p.m. on Thursday.

Earth's northern hemisphere points towards the sun during the summer solstice. Graphic provided by NASANASA

When will the sun set?

On the summer solstice, Americans will see the most daylight and shortest night of the year.

Sunrise in Harrisburg will be at 5:37 a.m. and sunset will be at 8:40 p.m. on Thursday.

The Old Farmers Almanac explains that the summer solstice is not based on a calendar date; it depends on when the sun reaches its northernmost point from the celestial equator. It shifts among June 20, 21 and 22.

Do days get shorter?

After the summer solstice, the days will get progressively shorter into the fall season. (In this case, shorter means less daylight.)

By the fall equinox, the first day of fall on Sept. 22, the sun is expected to rise at 6:55 a.m. in Harrisburg, and sunset is at 7:03 p.m.

On the winter solstice, Dec. 21, Pennsylvania will see 9 hours and 18 minutes of daylight.
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!

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Commentary

By Sylvain Charlebois

European politics are notoriously intricate, and the recent EU elections have highlighted a growing fatigue in the West towards socialist and urban-centric policies that impact agriculture and the agri-food sectors. Following months of farmer protests across Europe, the Green Party, previously the fourth most significant party, lost 19 seats and has now slipped to the sixth position in the EU Parliament in Brussels.

Pro-farming parties now hold more seats than the Greens. This shift suggests that Europeans are increasingly eager for Europe to compete against China and the United States to bolster its economy.

The political upheaval was particularly pronounced in France, Europes largest country after Germany. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for snap elections for the National Assembly, and Belgiums President has resigned. Germany is experiencing similar turbulence, with the Social Democrats being relegated to a lower ranking.

The farmers revolt, which peaked in January and February of 2024 and has affected most EU member states, is fueled by escalating production costs, foreign competition, declining incomes, environmental restrictions, and onerous administrative procedures. In essence, Europe is undergoing significant turmoil, and it seems farmers voices are finally being heard.

From a food security standpoint, the situation in Europe is deteriorating. Extreme agricultural policies that empower the state to control farming have rendered Europe less food secure. The results of the EU election will have a profound impact on the continents future food security. Farmers have been burdened by bureaucratic policies and restrictive regulations dictating what and how they can produce. Government oversight has reached extremes, with satellite images used to monitor compliance with allowed crops and field activities, triggering automatic notifications if discrepancies are detected. This level of state control is unprecedented.

Even before the election, the EU Parliament was under pressure. Facing mounting tension, several environmental regulations, including pesticide rules, were either diluted or repealed. This relaxation of green objectives may indicate a broader trend with the new parliament, which could be seen as a positive development.

We have witnessed a significant shift in European regulatory approaches, causing the continent to retreat from exports and focus on self-sufficiency. For instance, Europes pork production, one of the worlds most popular animal proteins, is down by three million metric tons from 2021, representing 25 percent of the U.S. entire pork production. Grain production is also languishing, making it increasingly challenging to feed livestock.

The EU projects that overall cereal production this season will be 4.3 percent below the five-year average, not only due to adverse weather conditions but also because farmers feel unsupported and lack incentives. Europes struggles have created opportunities for American producers, who are now targeting markets like Korea, previously served by Europe. Brazil has also capitalized on Europes challenges, and Canada should follow suit.

While the U.S. views Europes self-inflicted food insecurity as a chance to expand its market reach, Canada is enamoured with European-style, urban-centric agri-food policies. The EUs experience is a critical case study for Canada on what not to do.

Undermining farmers and disregarding their expertise is reckless and perilous for citizens and the economy. Restoring dignity to farming in Canada is imperative.

For effective environmental stewardship, governments must prioritize farmers insights. Their expertise is invaluable, surpassing that of vocal NGOs and federally funded entities like the Canadian Climate Institute or the Smart Prosperity Institute. These organizations have received over $51 million to promote the federal governments environmental policies, often to the detriment of farming communities.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University.
Phil Hellmuth Reaches WSOP Mixed Omaha Final Table; 18th Bracelet Awaits?

Jon Sofen Senior Editor U.S. Copy link

Five days after Phil Ivey moved alone into second place all-time by winning his 11th bracelet, Phil Hellmuth is on the verge of extending his record.

The "Poker Brat" has reached the final table in Event #43: $1,500 Mixed Omaha on Tuesday, meaning he could be hours away from capturing his 18th bracelet, seven more than any other player has won.

2024 World Series of Poker Hub Bookmark this page! All you need to know about the 2024 WSOP is here. Click Here

Last year, in the wee hours of the morning, Hellmuth took down Number 17, beating out 642 entrants to win the $10,000 Super Turbo Bounty for $803,818.

Hellmuth Remains at the Top of His Game

Phil Hellmuth

It's been 17 years since Hellmuth set the record for most WSOP titles with 11, surpassing Doyle Brunson and Johnny Chan, the player he defeated heads-up in the 1989 WSOP Main Event, denying Chan a third consecutive world title. On Tuesday, he could create an even larger gap from the competition.

Hellmuth entered Day 3 in the Mixed Omaha event sixth in chips out of the 22 remaining players  853 entered the tournament. Play began at 1 p.m. PT from the Horseshoe Las Vegas Events Center. Reaching the final table on Day 3 hasn't been a cakewalk for the "Poker Brat," not when facing a final session field that includes Shaun Deeb, Nathan Gamble, and other crushers.

Within the first 30 minutes of play on Tuesday, four players had busted. At that point, there hadn't been much movement from Hellmuth's stack. He remained in solid position to make a run at the final table. That didn't change as the field dwindled down to 16 players.

Hellmuth spent the first couple of hours on Day 3 biding his time, waiting to make a move. He avoided any major confrontations early in the session. The same could be said about Deeb, who began the day with a below average stack and wasn't able to make a move during the first two levels of the final day. But the six-time bracelet winner would run out of chips in 16th place for $7,543.

As the day progressed, Hellmuth's stack began to dip further from the chip leaders. He simply couldn't find a hand to double up or even win a big pot. Four hours into the session, with 11 players still standing, only Edward Jackson Spivack had a smaller stack.

But Hellmuth has a lengthy history of battling through a tournament with a short stack. If there's any poker player in history who best exemplifies "chip and a chair," it's the "Poker Brat." Right on cue, Hellmuth battled his way to the final table despite never really getting much going on Day 3. And now he's potentially six eliminations away from his 18th bracelet, a record that may never be broken.

At the time of publishing, eight players remained, all guaranteed at least $19,009, but the big prize is $196,970 and a gold bracelet, which for Hellmuth would be his record-extending 18th.

At approximately 6:30 p.m. PT, Edward Jackson Spivack went out in ninth place ($14,664), setting up the unofficial final table. Hellmuth had built up a stack of 2.7 million chips, putting him middle of the pack.

The official final table will be when the tournament reaches seven players. If Hellmuth advances at least one spot further, it will be his 73rd official World Series of Poker final table, another record that may never be topped.

Phil Hellmuth's 17 World Series of Poker Bracelets

Follow PokerNews' Live Coverage of Hellmuth's Bracelet Chase

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WSOP Bracelet Winner Matthew Parry Unexpectedly Passes Away

Chad Holloway PR & Media Manager Copy link

The poker world received shocking news on Tuesday that World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet winner Matthew Parry, who was a week removed from winning a Wynn Summer Classic title, passed away unexpectedly. Details surrounding his passing are currently unknown.

The news was shared by Parrys family via the following message on his Facebook account:

Its with crushing sadness that were letting friends of Matts and our family know that Matt passed away on Saturday, June 15. As many of you are aware, he had 2 true passions - chess and poker. Happily, he was in Las Vegas attending the WSOP doing what he loved when he died. Last year, he fulfilled his dream when he won his first bracelet. He is deeply and forever missed. At this time, arrangements are being made and well use FB and email to communicate in the event you would like to join us in celebrating his life. Please keep our Matt in your prayers.

Matthew Parry

Parry, a Scholastic National Champ at chess, hailed from New York where he graduated from Fairport High School and studied at the University of Buffalo. He learned to play poker with friends and online.

He has $1,908,422 in lifetime tournament earnings according to the Hendon Mob including a career-best $480,122 for winning the 2023 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Event #82: $3,000 Pot-Limit Omaha 6-Handed for a gold bracelet. The win came three years after he nearly won an online bracelet finishing runner-up to Nick Guagenti in the 2020 WSOP.com Online Event #29: $2,000 NLH Deepstack.

Parry, who once told PokerNews he was mostly a cash game player, was off to a good start this summer finishing 11th in the 2024 WSOP Event #18: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha for $19,048, and then two days later winning the Wynn Summer Classic $2,200 Pot-Limit Omaha for $106,645. He also placed 25th in the WSOP Event #31: $3,000 NLH 6-Handed for $18,603 and 81st in Event #34: $2,500 NLH Freezeout for $5,946.

"One thing that I like about the tournament versus cash play is it feels like there's less variance. You see a lot less re-raising and it allows you to navigate through a field like this a lot better, Parry told PokerNews after his bracelet win last summer.

"You know what? If you have a dream of coming out to the World Series of Poker, you can do it and you should it."

PokerNews offers condolences to the friends and family of Matthew Parry, a World Series of Poker champion.

Matthew Parry won a WSOP gold bracelet in 2023.

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WATCH: UFC's Bruce Buffer Dishes on Poker Games w/ Leonardo DiCaprio | Life Outside Poker #8

Connor Richards Editor & Live Reporter U.S. Copy link

Life Outside Poker is a new podcast for PokerNews hosted by Connor Richards that seeks to pull back the curtain on poker players and allow viewers and listeners to get to know them on a personal level.

In the eighth episode, Connor speaks with legendary UFC ring announcer Bruce Buffer in an exclusive in-depth interview after Buffer's deep run in the 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) $50,000 High Roller. Buffer, a longtime poker player, finished in eighth place for a career-best $212,423 after kicking off Day 3 with his trademark "it's time" introduction.

Buffer talked about finding his long-lost half-brother, Michael Buffer, and becoming his manager, the early days of the UFC, the similarities between poker and martial arts, his relationships with Joe Rogan and Dana White, playing poker with Tobey Maguire and Leonardo DiCaprio and the time he injured himself in a poker tournament before announcing the biggest UFC fight in history.

This interview was filmed at the 2024 WSOP inside Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas.

The Life Outside Poker podcast is available on major streaming platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify and iHeartRadio. You can also watch the interview with Bruce Buffer by heading to the PokerNews YouTube channel.

Be sure to follow Bruce Buffer and Connor Richards on X.

Learn More About Life Outside Poker!

Time Stamps

TIME TOPIC 0:00 Intro 0:44 Final tabling the $50k High Roller 3:25 Bustout hand 4:15 Learning poker from his dad 5:40 Playing poker with Tobey Maguire and Leonardo Dicaprio 6:47 Growing up in Malibu 9:07 Finding his half-brother Michael Buffer 12:31 Trademarking Michael's phrase and becoming his manager 13:41 Early UFC days 14:48 Having a fighter's mentality in poker and life 15:49 Dana White 16:26 Changing public perception of UFC 17:39 Standout personalities in UFC 19:02 Joe Rogan 21:40 Meeting the cast of Friends 22:14 Rolled ankle in poker tournament before biggest UFC fight in history 23:27 Advice for staying motivated 24:20 Different businesses 26:21 Angel AI 27:05 What makes you hopeful? 27:38 Advice for younger self 29:10 Favorite life lesson from poker

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Today, the continuation of the 2024 World Series of Poker saw the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas play host to the second installment of Event #44: $2,000 No-Limit Hold 'em. This three-day event drew in an impressive 1,561 entrants, of which 235 returned to the felt to battle it out this morning. After an additional 10 levels of play, just 17 contenders remain in tomorrows race towards the first-place prize of $410,359 and the coveted gold WSOP bracelet.

When all was said and done, Javier Gomez bagged the all-important chip lead for the Day 3 restart tomorrow. Gomez amassed an impressive stack of 4,870,000 and is over 800,000 in front of his nearest competitor Nicholas Massey, the only other player to eclipse the four million chip mark.

End of Day 2 Top Ten Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chips Big Blinds 1 Javier Gomez Spain 4,870,000 61 2 Nicholas Massey United States 4,055,000 51 3 Yasheel Doddanavar India 3,850,000 48 4 Michael Berk United States 3,465,000 43 5 Huihan Wu United States 3,450,000 43 6 Damien Le Goff United Kingdom 3,445,000 43 7 Kavin Shah United States 3,350,000 42 8 Javier Zarco Spain 3,125,000 39 9 Yunkyu Song United States 2,800,000 35 10 Narcis Nedelcu Romania 2,700,000 34

Many notable names found their way to the felt this morning, including a plethora of previous bracelet winners. For a large portion of the day, a heavy focus remained on former Main Event champion, Koray Aldemir, as he navigated his deep run with several big swings. However, Aldemirs campaign for a second bracelet fell short on Level 24 when Jonathan Glendinning became the beneficiary of Aldemirs stack.

Koray Aldemir

Aldemir wasnt alone in falling short on his quest to add another piece of gold hardware to his trophy cabinet; former bracelet winners Yuliyan Kolev and Lou Garza crashed out in 23rd and 19th, respectively, falling short of their triumphs in 2022 and 2023.

Lou Garza

However, the same fate has yet to befall tournament veteran Barry Shulman, who will be progressing to Day 3 with a short stack of 685,000. Shulman won his first bracelet over two decades ago in the 2001 $1,500 Seven Card Stud Hi-Lo Split Eight or Better. However, that victory was more notably eclipsed by his 10,000 WSOP Europe Main Event win in 2009. Can Shulman spin his short stack into bracelet number three?

With Shulman being the only WSOP champion left in the field, the remaining 16 players will all be on the hunt for their maiden World Series win.

Play will recommence tomorrow, June 19, at 12 p.m. local time on Level 27. Blinds will be 40,000/80,000, with an 80,000 big blind ante. The remaining finalists will endure 60-minute levels until a winner is crowned.

Keep it locked in with PokerNews to make sure you dont miss a single moment of the action here at the 2024 World Series of Poker.
Day 1 of Event #48: $1,000 Pot-Limit Omaha (8-Handed) at the 2024 World Series of Poker saw a tremendous turnout both in volume and quality of players here at the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas. There were a whopping 2,212 entries, which is an increase compared to the 2,071 of last year. This generated a prize pool of $1,946,560. At the end of 17 levels of play, only 128 hopefuls found a bag for Day 2.

James Chen (US) found himself near the top of the counts as the day came to an end, bagging an impressive 1,017,000. Chen has already won a bracelet at this year's WSOP, defeating 928 players in Event #4: $1,500 Omaha Hi-Lo 8 or Better (8-Handed) and cashed in two other events for a total earnings of $222,221 thus far.

Grzegorz Derkowski has the largest stack of 1,177,000. He has also had a successful 2024 WSOP with two cashes, including a fourth-place finish in Event #18: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha (8-Handed) for a total of $105,563.

Hot on Derkowski's heels is Kharlin Sued, who bagged 1,100,000. Sued has quite the resume with an incredible seven cashes thus far in the 2024 WSOP worth a combined $91,373, taking his lifetime earnings to $1,184,051.

End of Day 1 Top Ten Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chips Big Blinds 1 Grzegorz Derkowski Germany 1,177,000 118 2 Kharlin Sued United States 1,100,000 110 3 James Chen United States 1,017,000 102 4 Michael Rocco United States 859,000 86 5 Brian Hastings United States 793,000 79 6 Asher Neaman Israel 693,000 69 7 Jose Ferreira Brazil 668,000 67 8 Vincas Tamasauskas Lithuania 664,000 66 9 Tolga Demirel Turkey 655,000 66 10 Steven Sarmiento United States 634,000 63

Action of the Day

Day 1 was action-packed, with registration and reentry available until the end of Level 9. As registration closed, only 32 percent of the field remained, with roughly 700 players of the 2,212 entries still in action.

The bust-outs continued quickly and the bubble burst before the official hand-for-hand period began. The floor had asked the dealers to stand up at the completion of their hands, but with multiple eliminations, the remaining 332 players locked up their $2,005 minimum cash.

Phil Laak

Phil Laak had a boost in chips when he made a royal flush and managed to hang on to them as he finished the day with 243,000.

Other notables to find a bag include, Brian Hastings (793,000), David Prociak (630,000), Christopher Frank (608,000), and Shaun Deeb (445,000).

However, not all were as fortunate to advance to the second day including Mike Matusow, Adam Hendrix, Jesse Lonis, Nikita Kuznetsov, and Scott Ball.

The final 128 players have locked up a payout of $2,696, but all eyes are on the grand prize of $262,734 and the WSOP gold bracelet.

Remaining Payouts

Place Prize Place Prize Place Prize 1 $262,734 8 $29,740 40-47 $6,309 2 $175,179 9 $23,009 48-55 $5,305 3 $126,853 10-11 $18,007 56-63 $4,516 4 $92,850 12-15 $14,257 64-71 $3,894 5 $68,702 16-23 $11,421 72-79 $3,400 6 $51,396 24-31 $9,259 80-99 $3,008 7 $38,877 32-39 $7,597 100-126 $2,696 127-128 $2,449

Day 2 restarts at 1 p.m. local time on June 19 in the Bronze section at the Horseshoe Event Center, with play continuing until just five players remain.

Stay tuned to PokerNews for live updates throughout the rest of Event #48 and the rest of the 2024 World Series of Poker.
President Biden said that Trump has snapped and the unhinged ex-president is only concerned with protecting his freedom after being convicted of a felony.

The President said, according to the White House pool report, while speaking at a fundraiser:

You know, he snapped when he lost. I mean this sincerely. He cant accept he lost. Its literally driving him crazy. Thats why when January 6 happened  and now hes running again. Hes not only obsessed with losing in 2020 hes currently a little bit unhinged right now. Im being serious. Just listen to him.

He says he wants to  he wants to quote be a dictator on day one. He says he wants to, and these are his words, terminate the Constitution. He calls convicted insurrectionists who are in prison patriots. He says if he were elected he would pardon every one of them. Trump says if he loses again in November, these are his words, there will be a bloodbath. His phrase. There will be a bloodbath.

Throughout his campaign, Trump has made it clear hes running to exact revenge. And now, after his criminal conviction, hes clear hes worried about preserving his freedom.

Biden isnt holding back, and he was also correct. Trump has been more unhinged. The ex-president is claiming that the current president is going to show up at the first presidential debate high on cocaine. Joe Biden is 81 years old. He is not going to be doing coke before a presidential debate.

President Biden hit the nail on the head when he said that since his criminal conviction, Donald Trump is only interested in preserving his freedom. This reality makes Trump especially dangerous, because he will do anything to get back into the White House.

Biden isnt holding back on Trump. The President isnt playing the nice guy. Joe Biden seems to understand what is at stake in this election, and he is bluntly laying it out for all to see.
A Melbourne council has caved into community pressure and finally responded to complaints from residents over the costly children's park upgrade last year.

A local council has caved into community pressure and voted to reinstate play equipment which was removed from a popular children's park late last year, which parents say transformed the outdoor space into a "prison".

The much-loved playground in Collingwood, in Melbourne's inner city, was demolished in November in a huge $2 million "upgrade" that took months to complete. But despite becoming the suburb's biggest playground, frustrated parents slammed the changes at Cambridge St Reserve.

The upgrade was dubbed a huge "failure" by parents and nearby residents who argued the park is no longer "inviting for children".

Parents blast 'sad' playground

Before the renovation, the park featured a wide range of equipment including a slide, spring rider, swing set, and a jungle gym compared to the finished upgrade. The new design now features a single swing and a lonely set of gym bars which some parents say is "unreachable".

"It's not very inviting for children," one mum said after seeing the park for the first time. "[My daughter] honestly takes one look at it and runs in the other direction." Others said the space now reminded them of a "prison" courtyard.

Cambridge St Reserve in Collingwood in Melbourne after the $2 million upgrade. Source: Supplied

Six months after locals launched a petition to have "Melbourne's saddest playground" returned to its former glory, councillors have heard their pleas and overnight voted to reinstall the original equipment. Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, petition starter Gaynor said the vote was a "great outcome and victory".

"We are delighted the City of Yarra Council voted to reinstate play equipment [at the] Cambridge Street Park with a budget of $250,000," Gaynor said. "Congratulations to the people who signed my petition  we all came together, and we made a difference.

"This is a great outcome and victory. I had no idea how political it would be to try and fight for the necessities of what a council should deliver, but I'm glad the Council has heard the community loud and clear."

It's not clear exactly when the original equipment will be reinstalled.

Have your say

Council's stance on new playground design

Last year, a spokesperson for the City of Yarra Council told Yahoo News that the upgrades were part of an urban initiative to "increase green spaces in the area". They said at the time that "only five of the 171 people" who responded to plans regarding the upgrade "requested traditional play equipment".

"After consulting with the local community about creating a new pocket park in Collingwood the vast majority told us they wanted more green open space where they could relax," the spokesperson said.

"In a suburb such as Collingwood which only has 0.3 per cent open space, expanding the size of the park was a major driver for the parks design. Council has responded to the needs of the community by building a new park that is double its original size."

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Donald Trump seems scared of Joe Biden, as the ex-president is trying to reduce expectations for the debate that is coming up in eight days. The question is why is Trump so afraid?

Donald Trump Is Already Making Excuses For The Debate

From our newsletter The Daily:

At Trumps rally in Recine, Wisconsin, the one-term president said something that, at first pass, seemed like yet another one of his baseless smears against an opponent.

Trump said:

Now were going to watch, is anybody going to watch the debate? Hes going to be so pumped up, hes going to be pumped up. You know, all that stuff that was missing about a month ago from the White House. What happened? Who, who left it? Somebody left it there.

I, I wonder, lets see, somebody left a laptop in a, an office of a gentleman who was supposed to fix the laptop from hell, he never picked it up and somebody didnt pick up hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of cocaine. I wonder who that could have been. I dont know, actually, I think it was Joe, if youre one of those.

Video:

What Is Trump So Afraid Of?

It is a valid question. If Biden is as feeble and senile as Republicans make him out to be, why is their nominee making excuses for how badly he is going to do at the first presidential debate?

It doesnt make sense.

If President Biden was really so out of it, then Donald Trump should be looking forward to debating President Biden. He should not be preemptively making excuses for his own failure.

Donald Trump fears Joe Biden, which is why he tried to force Ukraine to manufacture dirt that could be used against Biden in the 2020 election.

Trump is so scared of Biden that he got himself impeached for withholding congressionally appropriated aid to Ukraine as part of a blackmail plot.

Donald Trump has been scared of Biden for years. Is it because Biden is the real deal, and each time he and Trump stand side by side, the truth becomes obvious?

Only Donald J. Trump knows for sure, but he gives off the vibe of a convicted felon who knows that he doesnt belong.

To get more stories like this, sign up for The Daily:
Ever since Juneteenth became a national holiday, corporations have been trying to do to it what theyve done with Pride: strip it of its roots and turn it into a commercialized holiday to sell more stuff.

Theres a scene in American Fiction in which Jefferey Wrights character is appalled at the suggestion that his book is promoted for a Juneteenth holiday release. Yet, the white corporate executives are so pleased with themselves for the idea: how inclusive, they think, how perfectly celebratory.

And while now that Juneteenth marks a national day off, it will be marked with gatherings and celebrations, it should be a day of remembering. Celebrated on June 19th (hence the portmanteau), Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 (almost 160 years ago) when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom. More than two years after President Abraham Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation had legally freed them, these were the last enslaved people to be legally free citizens. Therefore, the holiday marks the actual end of slavery in the United States  unless you count prison labor and other forms of legal enslavement (I do).

Many people are still confused as to how the Emancipation Proclamation had failed to be delivered to all enslaved people. But it wasnt like there were Apple News alerts. News took time to speak. Major General Gordon Grangers announcement of General Order No. 3 in Galveston delivered the long-overdue message that all enslaved individuals were free, symbolizing a critical turning point in American history.

Its a holiday that doesnt just celebrate the freedom of formerly enslaved people but also recognizes the systems failure to deliver on its promises.

Though the holiday was celebrated informally, Juneteenth is also entangled with memories of summer 2020 during the Global Black Lives Matter protests. After George Floyd was murdered by police in May 2020, protests erupted all summer and marked a shift in the conversation about race in America and beyond. This momentum culminated on June 17, 2021, when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making Juneteenth a federal holiday.

For the first time, we were talking about racism as a structural institution rather than a series of small actions. We were finally addressing the deep-seated roots of racism in our systems and in ourselves. But of course, this all got gentrified fast. People started putting anti-racist in their Instagram bios and thought that was enough. And dont even get me started on the Black squares on Instagram.

It was Bidens alleged intention for recognizing Juneteenth as a national holiday to not only honor the historical significance of the day but also underscore a commitment to acknowledging and addressing the legacy of slavery and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice in the United States.

However, just four years later, what have all those promises for change accomplished? Many companies promising to do good have since fired their DEI staff. Many copies of bell hooks and anti-racist books bought during the first wave of support are sitting dusty on bookshelves somewhere. And now we have Juneteenth. But is it enough?

But activism can only be diluted if our commitment to it wanes. Every year, I challenge us all to strengthen our commitment to the values we purported to support in 2020. Read those books. Ask yourself if youre living up to your #antiracist Instagram bio. And consume media by Black people that aims to educate its audiences  not just placate them with mediocre claims of representation.

From documentaries to narrative features, here are some films to inspire your activism and anti-racism this month:

I Am Not Your Negro

James Baldwin is one of the most insightful voices from the Civil Rights era. His writing, as well as his interviews, challenged American society and politics through both fiction and non-fiction. But many often forget that he spent the last years of his life in Paris in fear that the US government would murder him as they had his contemporaries. Directed by Raoul Peck, the film is based on Baldwins unfinished manuscript, Remember This House, which was intended to be a personal account of the lives and assassinations of three of his close friends: Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr. By juxtaposing Baldwins commentary with images from the Civil Rights era and contemporary times, I Am Not Your Negro becomes both a commentary and call to action urging us to acknowledge the truth of the system and also do what we can to change it.

The 13th

We cant talk about Juneteenth without talking about the 13th Amendment, which prohibited slavery in the United States except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted. With the problem of mass incarceration disproportionately affecting Black Americans, it has become a form of legalized slavery. No amount of Juneteenth merchandise will disguise the fact that the freedom we celebrate is conditional. Ava DuVernays seminal 2016 documentary takes this loophole as its starting point  tracing the many ways its been hideously exploited from the Civil War onwards to maintain a racial hierarchy with commentary from Angela Davis, Senator Cory Booker, Michelle Alexander, and more.

Origin

A narrative can be as educational as a documentary when done correctly. Ava DuVernays most recent drama Origin (2023) chronicles the journey of reporter Isabel Wilkersons acclaimed book, Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents. It follows Wilersons investigation to how caste systems shape social hierarchies in the United States to parallels with caste systems in India and Nazi Germany. Through a blend of personal narrative and historical analysis, the film interweaves Wilkersons interviews, archival footage, and acting inspired by true events to highlight insidious caste-based discrimination that plagues societies around the world.

Rustin

Celebrate the intersectionality of both Juneteenth and Pride month with Rustin (2023), a biographical drama that brings to life the story of Bayard Rustin, a key architect of the Civil Rights Movement. He helped organize the March on Washington and was one of MLKs key advisors for a time. But why havent you heard of him? Because he was gay  and he was ousted from MLKs inner circle due to homophobia. Directed by George C. Wolfe, the film stars Colman Domingo as Rustin, capturing his dynamic and often challenging role as an openly gay Black man fighting for social justice in a time of profound prejudice. Its a reminder of our interlinked struggles and how all justice depends on each other. Its also a call to action to be more inclusive and intentional in our activism.

Judas and the Black Messiah

One of the most powerful voices of the Civil Rights movement and chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party in the late 1960s, Fred Hampton was assassinated by by members of the Chicago Police Department as part of a COINTELPRO operation. COINTELPRO, Counterintelligence Program, was an FBI program investigating radicals  which mostly amounted to Civil Rights Leaders. In this dramatic retelling of Fred Hamptons story and murder, director Shaka King focuses on the involvement of LaKeith Stanfield as William ONeal, the FBI informant who infiltrated the Black Panthers and ultimately betrayed Hampton, played by Daniel Kaluuya. Watch for Kaluuyas compelling portrayal of Hampton that makes you understand the impact of this rousing leader, and inspires all of us to engage in our communities rather than pick the ebay way out like ONeal.

Genius: MLK/Malcolm X

The acclaimed Genius series turns its eye upon these two Civil Rights leaders in this biopic series. It underscores their differences and their similarities while exploring what made them so effective. It focuses on their formative years, how they became the leaders they were, and who they were in their personal lives  often imperfect but still determined to create change. By focusing on their humanity, this stops them from being over-mythicized and reminds us that we too can create change if we are committed to it.

The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution

As the first major documentary on the Black Panthers, The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution is directed by Stanley Nelson examines the Partys rise of in the 1960s and its impact on the Civil rights and American culture. It clears up some myths about the Panthers while emphasizing what they actually stood for. Emphasizing both forgotten heroes and familiar faces.

The Black Power Mixtape

The Black Panther Party is chronically misunderstood. This compilation of tapes come from videos shot for Swedish television between 1967 and 1975, capturing the tail end of the Civil Rights Movement; the shift away from Martin Luther King Jrs nonviolent policies to a more militant approach; and the brutal oppression faced by the leaders of the Black Power movement. Weaved between commentary from Erykah Badu, Angela Davis, and Stokely Carmichaels mother, these tapes tell the Black Pantherss story from their Point of View.

Slave Play. Not a Movie. A Play.

One of the most controversial and talked-about Broadway plays, Slave Play ignited public interest and ire in equal measure. It was the most Tony-award nominated non-musical play in history in 2019. Though it was too controversial to win any Tonys. It was also Julia Fox and Kanye Wests first date. Do with that what you will. Written by Jeremy O. Harris, it investigates the way that racism and the lineages of slavery are still pervasive in our society  and our intimate relationships. But this is not a film version of the play. Its a genre-bending exploration of the production of the play, as well as a conversation about its themes.

Black Barbie

Coming to Netflix on Juneteenth, the follow-up to last years Barbie phenomenon: a documentary on the origin of the Black Barbie. If youve gone your whole life and youve never seen anything made in your own image, says producer Shonda Rhimes in the trailer, there is damage done. The documentary follows how the Black Barbie came to be. Written and directed by Lagueria Davis, Black Barbie takes audiences through first-person perspectives of three Black women who worked at Mattel during the iconic dolls incubation: Kitty Black Perkins, Stacey McBride-Irby, and Davis Aunt Beulah Mae Mitchell. Im excited for people to know their names, a part of their story, and this part of history, says Davis.
Inflation in the United States dropped last month to its lowest point since it first began surging more than three years ago, adding to a spate of encouraging economic news in the closing weeks of the presidential race. Consumer prices rose just 2.4% in September from a year earlier, down from 2.5% in August and the smallest annual rise since February 2021. Measured from month to month, prices increased 0.2% from August to September. But excluding volatile food and energy costs, core prices, a gauge of underlying inflation, remained elevated in September, driven higher by rising costs for medical care and car insurance. Core prices in September were up 3.3% from a year earlier and 0.3% from August. Read moreU.S. inflation reaches lowest point in 3 years, though some price pressures remain
MYRTLE BEACH  Brian Stanford felt for the beach patrol officer.

After an Horry County officer drove a truck over a 66-year-old woman on June 13, Stanford and a group of other beachgoers lifted the front bumper of the Ford Ranger to slide out the crushed woman.

The officer was distraught. The woman later died.

Stanford doesnt believe there was any ill intent, though he keeps thinking the officer shouldnt have been in that situation in the first place.

I dont think the trucks should be on the beach, he said. ATVs, like they use on other beaches, are sufficient enough.

The death of Myrtle Beach's Sandy Schultz-Peters has sparked questions about why local police and rescue agencies drive full-size vehicles on the beach during the busy summer tourist season. Some lawmakers have even called for limiting the use of beach trucks during peak times. They argue the coast is too crowded for officers to safely navigate through sunbathers.

Down on the beach, you would need a vehicle thats low profile so you could see someone laying on a blanket or a towel, state Rep. William Bailey, R-Little River, said. It just doesnt make sense. These vehicles are too large for a compact area. And 99.9 percent of the time theyre doing basic patrol.

Bailey has already begun drafting a bill that, if approved, would prohibit agencies from driving full-size vehicles on the beach during the busiest times of day unless they are responding to an emergency.

A former North Myrtle Beach public safety director, Bailey said when he was managing the citys beach patrol he tried to minimize the hours trucks would be on the beach, and officers often utilized ATVs because the smaller vehicles were safer.
A Charleston technology company has agreed to pay $6.75 million to the state of California and abide by the terms of an injunction under a settlement stemming from a costly 2020 data breach.

Daniel Island-based Blackbaud Inc announced the final judgment late last week. It denied wrongdoing and did not admit any liability.

This settlement fully resolves the last remaining U.S. state attorney general investigation into the security incident, the company said in a filing with shareholders and stock market regulators.

In addition to the cash payment, Blackbaud agreed to not make misleading statements about its data-protection programs and to improve certain cybersecurity practices, such as conducting at least two preparedness exercises a year, among other requirements.

Todays settlement will ensure that Blackbaud prioritizes safeguarding consumers personal information and enhances security measures to prevent future incidents, California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a written statement.

Every state in the country sued the company over the breach. California was the only holdout. The others and the District of Columbia announced a $49.5 million settlement in October. South Carolina received $730,449.

Blackbaud is one of the worlds largest providers of software and analytical services that help charities and other philanthropic groups raise money.

According to court testimony, a cyberthief exploited a known weakness in the companys databases on Feb. 7, 2020, though the hack wasnt detected until about three months later. During that period the cyberthief, who hasnt been caught or identified, had access to unencrypted information on roughly 13,000 Blackbaud software buyers, as well as their donors. The data included Social Security and bank account numbers and other personal details, such as birthdates and medical conditions.
Imagine if the voices inside our heads, the ones that help us determine right from wrong, were visible to us, guiding us along the way. Local filmmaker Mark Iverson provides a modern interpretation of this classic good versus evil tale in his feature-length film debut, For Prophet.

The film follows Damon Fisher, a modern-day George Bailey of Its a Wonderful Life, who lives in a small town full of corruption and faces his own personal troubles. The weight of these everyday struggles ultimately leads Fisher on a spiritual journey during which he questions his faith and works to save his town, business and marriage.

Fisher is played by actor Ben Marten, who appeared in the 2019 film The Killing of Kenneth Chamberlain and episodes of NBCs Chicago Fire. He is under constant scrutiny from a cameraman who is always following him around, recording and interjecting his opinion.

Valentina Garcia, who plays the Archangel Raphael, is sent to protect Martens character from the cameraman, who she reveals is actually a demon that only he can see.

Everyone struggles with the idea of good and bad or the right choice versus the wrong choice, Garcia said. What really speaks to me about this movie is that it is not just for believers. It is for anyone who has a beating heart, who is conflicted, everyday, with the right and the wrong choices.

Iverson, a Chicago native and current Summerville resident, set out many years ago to make his feature-length film debut but first had to overcome several obstacles, including a lack of interest and funding along with the COVID-19 pandemic.

I wasnt scared to make a feature film, Iverson said. I was excited to make a feature film. I was pushing in doors, breaking down walls, and I was desperate to make a feature for many years.

Finding the right kind of film was a task in and of itself. Iverson has experience with nearly every type of filmmaking, from commercials and dramas to horror and action, but For Prophet required Iverson to step into a genre that he was not expecting.
Plus millions of Australians are waking up to the coldest morning of the year so far.

Yahoo's live news blog has concluded for Wednesday, June 19.

Human remains have been found on a popular beach on NSW's Mid North Coast. Read more below.

Global star Justin Timberlake has been charged with drink driving after cops pulled him over when he allegedly failed to stop at a stop sign. He reportedly told police he'd had just one martini.

With Tesla's global sales hitting a rocky patch, another US EV manufacturer has gone bust. Find out more below.

Follow along for regular updates throughout the day below.

LIVE COVERAGE IS OVER 12 updates Bird flu detected in second Aussie state The highly contagious avian flu has been detected at a poultry egg farm in NSW, sending the farm into immediate lockdown, as the state enacts its emergency biosecurity measures. The detection was made at a property in the Hawkesbury district, about 50km from the Sydney CBD, with official testing from the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness confirming the virus as High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (HPAI). However the H7N8 strain is not linked to the curent virus plaguing seven farms in Victoria, and believed to be a seperate spill-over event, or even from wild birds. Read more here.

Warning to young Aussies about dangerous pills Residents in NSW are once again being warned about high-dose MDMA pills in circulation. The grey irregular-shaped tablets have an imprint LION text on one side and contain roughly twice the amount of ecstasy a normal pill does. The amount of MDMA in a tablet or capsule can vary a lot, even within the same batch. The health risks from MDMA are greatly increased if high amounts (including multiple doses) are consumed over a short period," NSW Health's Dr Darren Roberts said. Hot environments, such as at music festivals, increase the risk of harm from MDMA. Taking a break from dancing, seeking shade, and drinking water are important measures to reduce the risk of overheating." The MDMA pills health authorities are concerned about.

EV manufacturer collapses EV manufacturer Fisker has gone bust as the industry continues to face underwhelming sales. Demand has been weak for US start-up Fisker's flagship Ocean electric SUV. The company cut jobs and paused investments to slow cash burn, partnered with dealerships to boost sales and desperately sought an investment from a major automaker to stay alive. None of that worked. Other US EV startups are lowering manufacturing costs, laying off workforce, and racing to develop cheaper models to navigate a slump in demand due to steep borrowing costs. China's ability to offer cheaper EVs has also hampered sales of Western-produced EVs including Tesla. Read more here. EV startup Fisker has struggled with costs. Source: AP

North Korea erect Putin portraits in capital's streets Well this is certainly a meeting that Western leaders will be watching closely. Russian President Vladimir Putin is in North Korea to meet with Kim Jong-un, his first visit in 20 years, as their relationship continues to prosper. Kim has been accused of supplying arms to Russia as its war in Ukraine continues. The streets of Pyongyang were lined with portraits of Putin and Russian flags for the 71-year-old's arrival. Putin in North Korea to boost defence ties.



Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un will hold a summit in Pyongyang where they are widely expected to discuss ways to boost sanctions-busting military tieshttps://t.co/xWoLyGclUI pic.twitter.com/v4sriNIuLO  AFP News Agency (@AFP) June 19, 2024

Teen boy charged for allegedly ranking female students A teenage boy has been charged over a social media post that allegedly ranked female students. The boy, 17, has been accused of creating a ranking system that categorised female students from Foxwell State Secondary College in Coomera. An investigation was launched last month after an Instagram post emerged ranking students as abduction material, one night stand, average and unrapeable. Queensland police said on Wednesday a boy had been charged with three counts of using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence. The boy is not a student at the school. Senior Sergeant Greg Aubort from Gold Coast District Child Protection said the case highlighted the serious consequences of using online platforms to intimidate or harass others. Police urge the community to remain vigilant and report any instances of cyberbullying or online harassment, he said. Such behaviour not only affects the wellbeing of individuals but also carries significant legal ramifications. - NCA News

Peter Dutton reveals plans for seven nuclear power plants Tens of thousands of Australians in five states could be living near nuclear power plants if the coalition wins the next federal election. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has unveiled details of his much-anticipated nuclear energy policy, which will put nuclear power plants in Australia's former fossil fuel heartlands. A coalition government will attempt to build a total of seven plants at existing coal-fired power stations, with the assets owned by the Commonwealth. This includes Loy Yang Power Station in Victoria's Gippsland area, Callide and Tarong in Queensland, Port Augusta in South Australia, Collie in West Australia, Mount Piper at Lithgow in central west NSW and Liddell in NSW's Hunter region. "We want to utilise the existing assets that we've got, and the poles and wires that are used at the moment on the coal-fired power station sites ... to distribute the energy generated from the latest generation nuclear reactors," Mr Dutton told reporters in Sydney on Wednesday. Read more here. - AAP This is the concept design of a zero emissions small modular reactor.



Nuclear energy has proven to get electricity prices and emissions down all over the world.



Out of the worlds 20 largest economies, Australia is the only one not using nuclear energy or moving towards it. pic.twitter.com/BN00QxQMmd  Peter Dutton (@PeterDutton_MP) June 19, 2024

Nature strip move divides Aussies This picture has certainly got people talking. Source: Reddit/ chill677 Plenty of Aussies take great pride in their nature strip. But would you go that extra yard to keep your neighbour's patch looking as good as yours? Well one resident won't and has been called "un-Australian" over their actions on Reddit. A photo of their neatly-mown strip was shared on the site but the cut grass abruptly ends with the home's boundary, leaving a patch of long grass on the other side. While we don't know the exact circumstances, many online are divided about whether it should have been cut as well. Would you have cut the neighbour's grass on their nature strip? Have your say below.

Doctor to inherit millions of dollars after patient dies A Sydney GP will inherit millions of dollars from a patient after he was written into his will as the main beneficiary, despite friends of the deceased man and the Salvation Army challenging the decision. Dr Peter Alexakis won a NSW Court of Appeal case last month, and will inherit 90 per cent of the estate left behind by his patient, Raymond McClure, 84. As he had never married or had children, the bulk of his $24 million fortune was previously left to the Salvation Army in a previous will. Dr Peter Alexakis has won a legal challenge to keep millions left to him by a patient. Picture: A Current Affair / Nine Several months prior to his death in 2017, Mr McClure changed his will to make Dr Alexakis the main beneficiary and leave 65 per cent of his estate to him. This will was later changed again, with Dr Alexakis receiving 90 per cent of Mr McClures estate, including his home in Strathfield, in Sydneys west. In a previous version of Mr McClures will, two of his friends were set to inherit up to 35 per cent between them, which was later changed to just 10 per cent. Dr Alexakis had been Mr McClures GP since 2015, making numerous hospital visits and later to his paitents home. This wasnt the first time Dr Alexakis had inherited some money after the death of a patient, as in 2014 he was bequeathed $86,380. Read more here. - NCA NewsWire

Millions face coldest morning of the year More than 10 million in our two biggest cities have endured a chilly winter's night as a cold blast sent the mercury plunging. For those in Sydney and Melbourne, Wednesday was the coldest morning of the year with temperatures sitting at a chilly 7C and 1.6C respectively. A day earlier Queenslanders in Roma struggled through -3.5C nighttime lows. Those few days of winter in Sydney, when we all freak out and wear a light jacket. The frost was thicker than I expected & the side mirrors crunched open  pic.twitter.com/uTQKSVNwwM  Fiona (@feefeespeaks) June 18, 2024

KFC stops selling chicken nuggets in two states KFC has been forced to stop selling chicken nuggets at hundreds of stores in Victoria and South Australia. The fast food giant is experiencing disruptions to its supply chain and has stressed the temporary decision is not a result of Victoria's bird flu outbreak that has impacted several poultry farms.

Justin Timberlake arrested and charged with drink driving We take you to the US now where singer and actor Justin Timberlake has been charged after he was allegedly caught intoxicated behind the wheel in The Hamptons. He reportedly told police he'd only had one martini when he was pulled over in his BMW after midnight when he allegedly failed to stop at a stop sign. Sag Harbor Village police officer Michael Arkinson wrote in his report it was "ascertained" Timberlake was driving the BMW "in an intoxicated condition in that his eyes were bloodshot and glassy." Arkinson claimed there was "a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from [Timberlake's] breath." Take a look at his mugshot below and read more here. Justin Timberlake in custody. Source: Sag Harbor Police Department via AP

Human remains found on popular NSW beach Human remains have been discovered at a popular beach on the NSW north coast. A volunteer made the shocking discovery of the decomposed body at Jetty Beach in Coffs Harbour just after 10am Tuesday. The volunteer was on the beach when they came across bones in the dunes about 10 metres away from a picnic spot. NSW Police were quickly alerted after receiving reports of the human remains. Jetty Beach. Source: City of Coffs Harbour Once they arrived, officers attached to the Coffs-Clarence Police District located the remains and cordoned off the area. Its understood the remains may have been there for some time, due to the absence of flesh on them or clothing within the vicinity. Strike Force Osbox has been established in order to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Coffs-Clarence Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. - NCA NewsWire

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XO Brasserie in Charleston thrives during the influential moments before the first bites are taken.

Start with a friendly check-in at the host stand, decorated with palmetto flowers and the words kindness, joy and gratitude printed in shiny Chinese characters. Anticipation builds on the walk to the table.

Observe the full dining room and open kitchen, where chefs toss garlic green beans and peppered ribeye in screaming-hot woks. Glance at the enthusiastic guests, gossiping over glowing green and orange cocktails.

Listen to the servers introductions as she sets down glasses of water on a corner table near the bar. Peruse the menu, revealing a cast of Cantonese and Sichuan items that jump off the page.

Crab fried rice. Crispy mala chicken. Mapo tofu. Whole fried lobster with chili soy.

Notice how nearly every seat has a good view  of the bar, beaming cooking area or pink dusk sky peeking through sweeping windows, partially guarded by monstera, fiddle-leaf fig and other plants.

Nod along to tunes by Kygo and The Chainsmokers, playing over the speakers at just the right volume. Feel the energy  a palpable vibe  that erases any stress from the day to allow for full appreciation of the present.

To this point, every part of the dining experience feels curated but not overly rehearsed. Thats what good restaurants do best.

The food part matters, too, obviously.

Here, the modern Chinese fare arrives as its ready, the server tells us. My mind instead hears this: Place your entire order now and hope for the best.

It's easy to understand why restaurant chefs like to receive full orders at once  it helps manage the flow of the kitchen. Too often, though, plates are shepherded to the table in a rushed, unorganized manner.

But any wariness about XO Brasseries pacing is eased when our plates begin arriving in perfectly planned waves, starting with the youtiao burrata ($19) wed ogled on Instagram  the bulb of cheese surrounded by what looks like long, layered breadsticks for dipping.
After 13 years at The Citadel, the last six years as Director of Athletics, Mike Capaccio announced his retirement as athletics director today. Capaccio has spent more than 40 years in college athletics as a player, coach, fundraiser and athletic director. A national search for a replacement Read moreThe Citadel AD retires
More than 200 people gathered at Charleston 9 Memorial Park on June 18 to mark the anniversary of the Sofa Super Store Fire and mourn the nine firefighters who died there, trapped by a falling roof.

In the early evening 17 years later, the wind whistled, diminishing the heat of the sun over the park. Between the hushed conversations and instrumental music in the background, the rustling of the tall grass and young trees could be heard throughout the park.

At 6 p.m., a lone member of the Charleston Fire Department honor guard marched down the path to the two firefighters standing sentry before the flagpole at the center of the park. After a long salute, he relieved the pair before assuming the post himself.

Today's Top Headlines Story continues below

Two flags flew  the American flag and a blue, white, and black flag commemorating the Charleston Nine, with the words "all gave some, some gave all" encircling the crest of the heroes.

As the beginning of the ceremony grew closer, more people entered the park. Some gathered and told stories about the fallen heroes. Others caught up with friends they hadn't seen in a while. And many made their way to the nine silver markers, scattered across the park to mark where each of the nine was found in the burned-down store.

A wreath stood to the right of each of the nine markers on the grounds. The markers themselves were adorned with stones, painted with the names of each of the nine men, as well as flowers and jars of rose petals laid at their bases.

Among the families paying respect were the daughters of Captain Billy Hutchinson, Aubree Prosecky and Christy Fulmer, as well as Christy's husband, Engineer T.A. Fulmer.

"I still miss him very much and wish he was still here," Christy said. "I'm grateful for how far the fire department has come and where they are today. And I know that because my husband works at the fire department now. So that makes me hopeful that they're moving in the right direction, and I see that first hand. And that helps me, I think. But it's still hard to be here."
If you have a hummingbird feeder in your yard, youre probably enjoying watching the hummers sipping nectar to fuel up for their long migration south in the coming weeks. But did you know that nectar makes up only a small percentage of a hummingbirds diet? Up to 80% of it comes from insects Read moreCommentary: Protect insects, protect birds
The Charleston Fire Department held a remembrance ceremony June 18 for the nine firefighters who died in the Sofa Super Store fire 17 years ago. The gathering was at Charleston 9 Memorial Park, which was established on the 2.5-acre site of the former furniture outlet.

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VICTORIA, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / AI/ML Innovations Inc. ("AIML" or the "Company") (CSE:AIML)(OTCQB:AIMLF)(FWB:42FB), a leading company committed to acquiring and advancing Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning technologies that address urgent societal needs, is pleased to announce that NeuralCloud Solutions Inc., AI/ML's newest wholly owned, operating subsidiary focused on pioneering advancements at the convergence of the global smart sensor market and the digital health industry, reported the following:NeuralCloud Solutions Inc. is proud to announce the launch of TheNeuralCloud.com . This innovative Neural Net as a Service Platform (NNaaS) affords healthcare providers, device company developers, and researchers, effortless and seamless access to advanced neural networks that analyze cloud-based biometric measurements, with a goal of improved healthcare outcomes.The first service provided to subscribers on TheNeuralCloud.com is our proprietary ECG Neural Net. This advanced solution provides detailed beat-to-beat labeling for ECGs of any duration, up to and including 48 hours, covering approximately 170,000 labeled heartbeats. This enhanced level of detail enables further neural network processing to uncover critical insights and events related to cardiovascular disease and other ailments.Paul Duffy, CEO of AI/ML Innovations Inc., stated, "We are thrilled to launch our subscription-based service platform, providing our clients with unparalleled access to advanced neural network technologies." For more information about AI/ML Innovations Inc., Neural Cloud Solutions Inc., and the Neural Net as a Service platform, please visit https://theneuralcloud.com ###About AI/ML Innovations Inc. https://aiml-innovations.com/ AI/ML Innovations Inc. has realigned its business operations to capitalize on the burgeoning fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), with an initial investment focus on emerging digital health and wellbeing companies that leverage AI, ML, cloud computing and digital platforms to drive transformative healthcare management solutions and precision support delivery across the health continuum. Through strategic partnerships with Health Gauge (95.2% owned by AIML), Tech2Heal (up to 22% ownership rights, with 12.44% currently owned by AIML), AI Rx Inc. (70% owned by AIML) and other planned accretive investments, the Company continues to capitalize on expanding growth areas, to the benefit of all the Company's stakeholders. AI/ML's shares are traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol "AIML", the OTCQB Venture Market under "AIMLF", and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under "42FB".On behalf of the Board of DirectorsTim Daniels, Executive ChairmanFor more information about AI/ML Innovations:For detailed information please see AI/ML's website or the Company's filed documents at www.sedarplus.ca For further information, contact: Blake Fallis at (778) 405-0882 or info@ aiml-innovations.com Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.For AI/ML Innovations InvestorsCertain statements made in this press release that are not based on historical information are forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. This press release contains express or implied forward-looking statements relating to, among other things, AI/ML Innovations' expectations concerning management's plans, objectives, and strategies, including strategies for defending the Company's intellectual property. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees but are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in these forward-looking statements. Existing and prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. AI/ML Innovations Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or revise the information contained in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events, or circumstances or otherwise except as expressly required by applicable securities law. Further information regarding the uncertainties and risks can be found in the disclosure documents filed by AI/ML with the securities regulatory authorities, available at www.sedar.com SOURCE: AI/ML Innovations Inc.
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TALLIN, ESTONIA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / GreenCrypto Corporation OU is proud to announce the launch of AvocadoCoin (AVDO), a groundbreaking cryptocurrency designed to promote sustainable agriculture through the innovative GreenGold Project. This initiative aims to revolutionize agricultural practices by integrating blockchain and IoT technology to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and real-world asset backing.The GreenGold Project Announces Launch of AvocadoCoin and New Crypto Exchange CriptoLat.For over two decades, the AvocadoCoin team has been at the forefront of merging blockchain technology with the Internet of Things (IoT) to improve agricultural efficiency and sustainability. The GreenGold Project focuses on real-time data analytics, nutrient management, and precision irrigation. These technologies aim to maximize yields, reduce resource waste, and ensure eco-friendly farming practices.Innovative Agricultural TechnologyThe GreenGold Project introduces precision irrigation, a cutting-edge technology that allows farmers to continuously monitor soil moisture levels and water crops efficiently. This ensures that plants receive the precise amount of water needed, reducing waste and enhancing growth, ultimately leading to higher agricultural yields.Nutrient management is another critical focus of the GreenGold Project. By leveraging blockchain technology, the project meticulously monitors and optimizes nutrient application, reducing excessive fertilizer use and ensuring crops receive the right nutrients at the right time. This results in healthier plants, higher yields, and a more sustainable agricultural system.Real-time data analytics play a vital role in the GreenGold Project, enabling farmers to make informed decisions about their crops. By collecting and analyzing data from various sensors, farmers can determine the optimal times for planting, harvesting, and pest control. Blockchain technology guarantees the integrity and security of this data, providing farmers with reliable information.AvocadoCoin: A Unique Investment in SustainabilityAvocadoCoin (AVDO) stands out in the crowded cryptocurrency market by being backed by real-world assets, such as productive agricultural land and renowned brands. This physical backing provides stability and inherent value, unlike many speculative cryptocurrencies. AvocadoCoin supports sustainable agricultural practices and promotes a collaborative economy, aligning with the principles of Agro 5.0, which emphasize advanced technology and sustainability in agriculture.GreenCrypto Corporation and CriptoLat: Revolutionizing Crypto in Latin AmericaGreenCrypto Corporation, in partnership with several investors, has launched CriptoLat ( www.criptolat.com) , a new crypto exchange set to revolutionize the cryptocurrency market in Latin America. This platform aims to provide a robust and secure environment for trading a wide range of cryptocurrencies, including AvocadoCoin. CriptoLat's innovative features and regional focus make it a pivotal player in expanding the accessibility and adoption of digital currencies in the region.How to ParticipateTo join the GreenGold Project and acquire AvocadoCoin, visit the official website at avocadocoin.com . The site provides comprehensive project information, including objectives, technology, and a timeline.The GreenGold Project maintains an active social media presence to engage with the community and share updates. Follow the project on Facebook, Twitter, and Telegram to stay informed and participate in discussions.For more detailed inquiries, interested individuals can contact the project team directly via email at info@ avocadocoin.com . The team is dedicated to providing extensive support and information to prospective investors and partners.About GreenCrypto Corporation OUGreenCrypto Corporation OU is a pioneering company dedicated to integrating blockchain technology with sustainable agricultural practices. Through innovative projects like the GreenGold Project and strategic partnerships such as CriptoLat, GreenCrypto Corporation OU aims to create a more sustainable and efficient agricultural system, promoting eco-friendly practices and driving forward the future of digital finance in agriculture.Media ContactOrganization: GreenCrypto Corporation OUContact Person: Mauricio VillasmilWebsite: https://www.avocadocoin.com Email: info@ avocadocoin.com City: TallinCountry: EstoniaSOURCE: GreenCrypto Corporation OU
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 05:00:18

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In a significant collaboration, BlueGrace Energy Bolivia (BGEB) and PH Plus have joined forces to provide PH Plus alkaline water in biodegradable bottles to their restaurants and hotels in South Florida.LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM / ACCESSWIRE / June 18, 2024 / Julio Montenegro, CEO of BluegRace Energy Bolivia, has indicated that in agreement with PH Plus both companies are currently negotiating with the team from The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL, to provide PH Plus alkaline water in biodegradable bottles to their restaurants and hotels. This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility and aligns our products with sustainable practices, emphasizing sustainability and alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to environmental conservation and economic growth.PH Plus Alkaline Water, with its unique formulation and a pH level of 9.5, offers numerous health benefits, including improved vitality, digestion, and enhanced hydration. Tailored to meet diverse health needs, it serves as a holistic solution for disease prevention, weight management, and overall wellness by promoting increased energy and toxin removal. Produced using a unique process that includes reverse osmosis and organic mineralization, PH Plus ensures its water is free from impurities and contaminants. The product is FDA-approved, reflecting the company's commitment to the highest quality standards.As part of its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), PH Plus utilizes biodegradable bottles in collaboration with Enso Plastics. These innovative bottles accelerate biodegradation through natural microbial activity, while maintaining resilience against light, heat, moisture, UV rays, and oxygen. This groundbreaking approach not only highlights PH Plus's dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship but also demonstrates our core values. We ensure that our commitment to eco-friendly practices does not compromise the exceptional quality of our premium alkaline water. By choosing PH Plus, consumers can trust that they are supporting a product that prioritizes both health and the environment.By combining expertise and resources, BGEB and PH Plus aspire to drive positive change while adhering to the UN's SDG Goals, setting a new standard for corporate responsibility, and fostering a sustainable future for the region and beyond.BlueGrace Energy Bolivia (BGEB) demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability by aligning with various global agreements such as the Escazu Agreement, the Paris Agreement, and the UN Economic Commission for LatinAmerica and the Caribbean's (ECLAC) agreement on climate change and fair transition. These agreements emphasize sustainable forest and manufacturing practices, supported by international financial incentives. BGEB's forestry carbon credits originate from projects managed by indigenous tribes in Bolivia's Amazon rainforest, complying with UN standards and methodologies. Unlike regulated credits, BGEB's voluntary carbon credits are globally tradable and registered in the platform registry system to prevent double accounting. Certified by CIFAL in Latin America, these credits contribute to 15 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Zero Hunger, Health and Well-being, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Life Underwater, and Life on Land Ecosystems. BGEB's dedication to sustainability aligns with SDGs through Sustainable Development Mechanism (SDM) projects, monitored by tailored targets and metrics. As registered issuers and observers of sustainable financial instruments with Capital Market Association (ICMA) and recognized by the United Nations Global Compact, BGEB prioritizes authenticity and sustainability, ensuring the integrity of their carbon credits.In 2023, BlueGrace Energy Bolivia, in partnership with MAXIMANCE 2030 LTD, secured approval for ISIN UK.BG.MAX 785.985257. This authorization facilitates the support of the Landmark Forest Conservation Project through equities, with a tenure of 10 years maintaining an unwavering commitment to authenticity and sustainability, prioritizing due diligence to uphold the integrity of our carbon credits. It is also important to mention thatAPRISCO ENERGY INDUSTRIES S.L., a Spain-based company dedicated to a fair and sustainable energy transition, has joined forces with BLUEGRACE ENERGY BOLIVIA SRL in a groundbreaking initiative poised to significantly contribute to sustainable development goals set for 2030.Mr. Julio Montenegro, CEO of BGEB indicated that BGEB's dedication to sustainability is evident in its commitment to conserving 20.5 million acres of the Amazon Rainforest and aligning with the UN's Global Compact. Utilizing advanced technology for carbon credit quantification, this initiative significantly contributes to global climate goals.BGEB's collaborations are focused on empowering indigenous and impoverished communities through comprehensive social initiatives and sustainability, guided towards universally accepted principles in human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption. By enhancing access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure, BGEB is committed to fostering community development alongside its environmental efforts. This integrated approach, which marries environmental conservation with the transition to clean energy and community empowerment, establishes BGEB as a frontrunner in both ecological preservation and clean energy innovation within Bolivia which underscores the ongoing importance of the partnership as it strives towards a sustainable and carbon-neutral future, serving as a compelling example of what collective action and innovation can accomplish.BGEB's journey inspires us all to take action, as together, we can address climate change and protect our planet for future generations.About BlueGrace Energy Bolivia:BlueGrace Energy Bolivia (BGEB), a global consortium of experts in diverse areas, is committed to advancing the transition to a net-zero future in response to climate change challenges. Boasting decades of experience, our team is pioneering 21st-century energy transition projects. Grounded in professional expertise and unwavering integrity, we aim to create genuine value for business and society Learn more at:Web: https://bluegracebolivia.com/ Youtube: http://tinyurl.com/1BGEB Instagram: http://tinyurl.com/0BGEB LInkedIn: http://tinyurl.com/56BGEB For further information, please contact:JULIO JOSE MONTENEGRO jmontenegro@ bluegracebolivia.com +1 (305) 97
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 15:00:33

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AANHPI-Led Tech Firm Recognized for Global Trade ExpansionATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 /CirrusLabs, a leading Asian American and Pacific Islander (AANHPI)-owned and led technology firm, was recently awarded the prestigious Export Achievement Certificate from the U.S. Department of Commerce (U.S. Commercial Service) through the Global Diversity Export Initiative.CirrusLabs, a leading Asian American and Pacific Islander (AANHPI)-owned and led technology firm, was recently awarded the prestigious Export Achievement Certificate from the U.S. Department of Commerce (U.S. Commercial Service).This award was presented by Arun Venkataraman, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service, through the Global Diversity Export Initiative. This national recognition highlights CirrusLabs' outstanding achievements in expanding its innovative technology solutions to global markets.The Export Achievement Certificate recognizes American companies that have either made their first export sale or expanded their sales into overseas markets with assistance from the U.S. Commercial Service.CirrusLabs' receipt of this certificate is further attributed to its selection for Trade Winds, the largest U.S. government-led trade mission and business development forum organized by the U.S. Commercial Service to promote trade globally. This underscores CirrusLabs' deep commitment to international trade and its collaboration with the U.S. government to expand its business footprint.The award was presented at the USPAACC CelebrASIAN conference, where the U.S. Commercial Service sought to highlight successful exporters and connect with the AANHPI business community. CirrusLabs was also named to the USPAACC Fast 100 list for the third time (2020, 2022, and 2024), further demonstrating the company's continued growth and innovation.CirrusLabs' remarkable success is fueled by its expanding portfolio of innovative services, which includes expertise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, ERP (including ServiceNow, SAP, Oracle Financials Cloud, and Workday), data migration and cloud, SOX compliance and devsecops, procurement and supplier management, call center analytics and migration, ScienceLogic, and Atlassian."Receiving the Export Achievement Certificate from the U.S. Department of Commerce is an immense honor," said Naeem Hussain, COO of CirrusLabs. "This recognition, along with our inclusion in the Fast 100 list for the third time, validates our dedication to driving innovation and expanding our reach globally." CirrusLabs extends its sincere gratitude to the U.S. Department of Commerce (U.S. Commercial Service) and the entire CirrusLabs team for their support and contributions to this remarkable achievement.About CirrusLabsCirrusLabs is a leading provider of innovative technology solutions, specializing in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, ERP (including ServiceNow, SAP, Oracle Financials Cloud, and Workday), data migration and cloud, SOX compliance and devsecops, procurement and supplier management, call center analytics and migration, ScienceLogic, and Atlassian.Contact InformationCirrusLabs Media Relationsinfo@ cirruslabs.io (877)431-0767SOURCE: CirrusLabsView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 22:11:45

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LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. ("Arbor" or "the Company") (NYSE:ABR) for violations of the securities laws.The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Arbor is the subject of a report issued by Viceroy Research November 17, 2023, titled, ""Arbor Realty Trust - Slumlord Millionaires." According to the report, "Arbor's high-risk multifamily bridge loans, which comprise substantially all of its asset book, are going bad fast The end is near." Viceroy Research then issued a follow up report on December 5, 2023, titled "Arbor - Jacksonville Case Study." In the second report, Viceroy Research claims that the Company's "entire loan book is distressed and underlying collateral is vastly overstated." Based on this news, shares of Arbor fell by more than 5% over the next two trading sessions.If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at bschall@ schallfirm.com The class in this case has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.CONTACT:The Schall Law FirmBrian Schall, Esq. www.schallfirm.com Office: 310-301-3335 info@ schallfirm.com SOURCE: The Schall Law Firm
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 14:00:26

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HUNTSVILLE, AL / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Curiteva, Inc., a leading technology and manufacturing company, announces the commercial launch of the first of many offerings in its FDA-cleared Inspire Posterior Interbody Fusion Solutions. Developed to enhance patient outcomes of transforaminal lumbar procedures, this 3D Printed Trabecular PEEK with HAFUSE Technology interbody boasts an optimized interconnected porous structure, promoting bone ingrowth into and through the entire device.Inspire Posterior Interbody Solutions From Curiteva Kevin Foley, MD, Chairman of Semmes-Murphey Neurologic and Spine Institute, commented, "Being able to maximize bone ingrowth is critical to the success of the fusion process. This innovative technology is poised to elevate the standard of patient care through its advanced design and superior biomechanical properties." The Inspire 3D Printed Trabecular PEEK TLIF implant is available in an array of implant sizes. The Inspire platform is manufactured utilizing the Evonik VESTAKEEP i4 3DF PEEK high-performance polymer on a proprietary, patented 3D printer designed, programmed, and built by Curiteva."The commercialization of our Inspire TLIF implant underscores our commitment to integrating the revolutionary Inspire technology across all of our implant solutions," said Mark Mohlman, Curiteva's Executive Vice President.Eric Linder, founder and Chief Technology Officer for Curiteva, remarked, "The launch of the Inspire TLIF System is a critically significant triumph for Curiteva as we achieve yet another first-in-industry milestone. The commitment we have made in developing the innovative Inspire technology has resulted in rapid technological advancement which supports our mission to advance the quality of orthopedic care." The Inspire Technology will be featured at the State of Spine Surgery Think Tank in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, this week.About Curiteva:Curiteva is a privately held technology and manufacturing company based in Huntsville, Alabama. Our business is founded on a commitment to building world-class manufacturing, accelerating research and development, maintaining lean operational discipline, and delivering novel technology to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the patients they serve. Curiteva is pioneering 3D printing of Trabecular PEEK implants with a bioactive nano-surface to revolutionize how engineered structures and implant biomaterials accelerate immunomodulation, enhance healing, and improve patient outcomes. For more information, please visit www.curiteva.com Contact InformationKristen KyzerDirector of Business Developmentkkyzer@ curiteva.com 256.213.1057SOURCE: CuritevaView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 17:30:22

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Ideon Media, Canada's largest digital rep firm, is proud to announce its exclusive partnership with Business Insider, one of the world's premier business and technology news websites. As the exclusive ad representation partner for Business Insider in Canada, Ideon Media will oversee all advertising sales and partnerships across Business Insider's digital platforms in the Canadian market.TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Ideon Media, Canada's largest digital rep firm, is proud to announce its exclusive partnership with Business Insider, one of the world's premier business and technology news websites. As the exclusive ad representation partner for Business Insider in Canada, Ideon Media will oversee all advertising sales and partnerships across Business Insider's digital platforms in the Canadian market.Business Insider has established itself as a trusted source of news, analysis, and insights for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers worldwide. Reaching 5.1M Canadian unique visitors monthly (Comscore, April 2024) with their comprehensive coverage of business, finance, technology, and more, Business Insider attracts a highly engaged audience of millions, making it a valuable platform for advertisers seeking to reach affluent and influential audiences."We are thrilled to work with Ideon Media to expand our audience of 5 million readers in Canada, a growing market that strongly resonates with Business Insider'sbusiness ,techandinnovationcoverage. This partnership brings the power of our global audience to local advertisers. Ideon Media's expertise and presence in Canada will open up new doors and endless opportunities for our partners looking to build authentic connections with 100 million Business Insider readers" says Orlando Reece, Global Head of Sales, Business Insider."We're excited to bring Business Insider back to the Canadian market. BI has a legendary history as one of the first and most successful digital-only publishers dating from Henry Blodget's visionary entrepreneurship during the first dot-com boom, with continued innovation over three decades. Featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning original journalism and industry-first branded programs, Business Insider is a must-buy for advertisers who want to connect with financially-savvy high net worth individuals, with a reach of over five million Canadians in April according to Comscore" says Kevin Bartus, President and CEO of Ideon Media.For more information please contact rj.pauloski@ideonmedia.com ABOUT Business InsiderSince launching in 2007, Business Insider has become a leading global news brand renowned for its coverage across business, technology and innovation. Business Insider reaches over 100 million readers each month and hundreds of millions of viewers who watch our videos for over a billion minutes each month. Business Insider's journalism has sparked changes around the world, inspiring new government legislation and prompting companies to amend controversial policies. The newsroom has won prestigious awards including a Pulitzer Prize, Emmys and a National Magazine Award. Business Insider has nine editions worldwide with bureaus spanning New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London and Singapore. Business Insider is a subsidiary of Axel Springer SE.ABOUT IDEON MEDIAIdeon Media is Canada's leading independent digital media company. As the single point of exclusive access to premium Canadian and international publications, Ideon reaches 19 million engaged Canadians through digital advertising solutions that deliver results.At the forefront of digital storytelling, Ideon Media empowers brands to connect with their target audiences like never before. Ideon Media combines scale with innovation across digital media, connected television, digital audio, programmatic and native platforms.SOURCE: Ideon Media
China, Australia can jointly build competitive new energy industrial, supply chains: Chinese premier

Xinhua) 08:27, June 19, 2024

PERTH, Australia, June 18 (Xinhua) -- China and Australia can jointly build competitive industrial and supply chains in the new energy sector, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Tuesday.

Li made the remarks when visiting Tianqi Lithium Kwinana Pty Ltd and Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) and its Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) in the Australian city of Perth, accompanied by Australian Minister for Resources Madeleine King and Premier of Western Australia Roger Cook.

China and Australia could leverage their complementary advantages and tap into their respective potentials to build competitive new energy industrial and supply chains as China's new energy vehicle and lithium battery industries possess technical expertise while Australia is rich in lithium and other critical minerals, he added.

During his visit to the company, Li listened to Tianqi Lithium's executives introducing its operation, and toured the lithium concentrate warehouse and product packaging workshop.

Li noted that the potential industrial and supply chains, on the basis of mutual benefit, could serve the low-carbon development of both countries and contribute to the global green transition as well.

He expressed the hope that Tianqi Lithium would continue to give back to the local community and benefit local people's livelihoods, and that Australia would continue to provide a favorable business environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and operate.

At the FFI, Li listened to the introduction of the group's leaders and visited a hydrogen-powered haul truck, a liquid hydrogen mobile refueler, and a cell electric locomotive that the group develops.

Li noted that green and low-carbon transition has become a major trend in global economic development in recent years, adding that Fortescue's active transformation into a green energy and resources company is highly compatible with China's unwavering commitment to developing green industries.

He also expressed his hope that Fortescue would play an active role in the process of China-Australia green development cooperation.

China will continue to promote high-level opening-up, further expand market access, and create a market-oriented and internationalized business environment that is first-class and based on the rule of law for enterprises from Australia and other countries to invest and operate, said the Chinese premier.

China welcomes more Australian enterprises to invest in China and take root in China to promote the continuous development of China-Australia relations, he added.

Also on Tuesday, Li held a meeting with Cook, during which he said the economies of China and Western Australia are highly complementary, and enjoy large-scale, high-level cooperation, making a model of local and practical cooperation between China and Australia.

It is hoped that Western Australia will deepen and expand cooperation with China in energy and mineral resources, agriculture and husbandry, green and low-carbon industries, and scientific and technological innovation, and continue to provide a good business environment for Chinese enterprises, he added.

As an important trading partner of China, Western Australia is proud of its outstanding cooperation with China and willing to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with China, establish more direct flights, and promote bilateral cooperation to achieve more fruitful results, said Cook.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 19:05:27

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CALGARY, AB and SAN ANTONIO, TX / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Nexera Energy Inc. (TSXV:NGY)(OTC PINK:EMBYF) (the "Corporation", the "Company" or "Nexera") today reported that the Corporation is proposing a non-brokered private placement offering of up to $650,000 (up to maximum of 26,000,000 common shares ("Common Shares") of the Corporation). The Common Shares are to be issued under a unit offering whereby up to a maximum of 26,000,000 units ("Units") at a subscription price of $0.025 per Unit are to be offered. Each Unit shall consist of one (1) Common Share of the Corporation and one (1) share purchase warrant (the "Warrant") (each full Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to purchase one (1) additional Common Share of the Corporation for a period of 24 months from the issuance of the Units at a price of $0.10) (the "Offering").The Warrants are subject to an acceleration clause whereby if after four months and one day following the date the Warrants are issued, the closing price of the Common Shares of the Corporation on the principal market on which such shares trade is equal to or exceeds $0.15 for 30 consecutive trading days (with the 30 th such trading date hereafter referred to as the "Eligible Acceleration Date"), the Warrant expiry date shall accelerate to the date which is 30 calendar days following the date a press release is issued by the Corporation announcing the reduced warrant term, provided, no more than five business days following the Eligible Acceleration Date: (i) the press release is issued; and (ii) notices are sent to all warrant holders.The net proceeds of the Offering will be utilized within the Corporation's wholly owned subsidiary, Production Resources Inc. ("PRI"), to pursue a growing oil and gas services opportunity. PRI is proposing to take advantage of its already owned equipment, along with using net proceeds from the Offering to acquire additional equipment and labour to pursue a cement services branch within PRI. This branch of business would pursue the plugging and abandonment of some of PRI's own wells, along with wells owned by other operators in the South Texas region. This diversified services approach benefits both the Corporation on its own wells owned (through PRI) by not having to pay an external third party to assist with the plugging and abandoning our own wells (saving the Corporation up to $12,000 per well) while at the same time allowing for additional revenues to be potentially generated by assisting other operators in the area with the plugging and abandonment of their wells (of which management of the Corporation believes there to be a high demand for in the area).Specifically, the Corporation anticipates using the net proceeds as follows: (i) equipment purchases - $170,000; (ii) equipment refurbishing - $110,000; (iii) field testing - $120,000; (iv) permitting and commercialization - $85,000; (v) labour - $100,000; and (vi) any balance leftover would go to working capital purposes.All of the Common Shares and Warrants issued pursuant to the private placement are subject to a four-month hold period. The Warrants will not be listed on any stock exchange. Completion of this Offering remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.This proposed Offering is intended to replace the debenture offering announced in a press release dated February 15, 2024 that was not completed by the Corporation.For further information, please contact:Nexera Energy Inc. President, Shelby D. Beattie, by telephone at (403) 262-6000Email: info@ nexeraenergy.comwww.nexeraenergy.com About Nexera Energy Inc.Nexera Energy Inc. (TSX Venture: NGY) is an energy company with oil producing properties in Southwest Texas. Nexera is owner and operator of the Lavernia, Wooden Horse and Stockdale Horizon Projects. Additionally, the Company owns and operates various working interests in the HugoCellR, HagCo, and MarPat partnerships. The Company also now owns 100% of Production Resources Inc., a South Texas oil company.Forward Looking StatementsExcept for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein relating to the timing of the filing of financial statements constitutes forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on 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.SOURCE: Nexera Energy Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 11:53:43

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DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Pentagon Gamesis thrilled to announce our partnership with Tiffany McCall, an internationally acclaimed fashion designer who is celebrating 20 years of excellence in the fashion industry. Tiffany McCall is well known for her remarkable achievements in major fashion hubs and prestigious events, where she continues to shape the fashion world with her visionary designs.Pentagon Games , a gaming publisher with a focus on XR, Blockchain and AI experiences, was the first to pioneer phygital fashion. In 2022 they ran one of the earliest phygital fashion shows with their blockchain superhero meta streetwear collection during the NYFW at the World Trade Center, receiving over 200 million impressions across media outlets globally. Pentagon Games, in collaboration with Style 3D, are experts in transforming physical garments into digital format using Unreal Engine 5 to create what is known as "Phygital" fashion. This new process is set to enhance the utility of physical garments through immersive technologies. Tiffany now joins forces with Pentagon Games to bring haute couture into the world of digital fashion.Emma Liu, CEO of Pentagon Games, said: "Everyone wants their own unique style to represent their own personality, and digital fashion allows users to have more freedom to express their style through an avatar without a limit." Pentagon Games is excited to embark on this groundbreaking journey with Tiffany McCall, pushing the boundaries of fashion and technology. Stay tuned for more updates as they continue to innovate and inspire in the world of digital fashion.About Pentagon GamesPentagon Games is a gaming publisher powering XR metaverse through deep learning and Web3. Funded by NFX, Binance Labs, Polygon, Spartan, Animoca Brands, YGG, Republic, and other top-tier investors, Pentagon Games aims to redefine the intersection of traditional gaming and the emerging Web3 landscape, establishing itself as a pioneering publisher that facilitates traditional game developers' entry into Web3. The vision is to create immersive experiences that go beyond traditional gaming, incorporating elements of AI, AR, VR, and ZK Proof EVM blockchain technology to offer a truly integrated and interactive environment for players.Website|Twitter|Discord|MediumMedia Contact: John Wannehag support@ pentagon.gameshttps://pentagon.games/ SOURCE: Pentagon Games
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 23:50:19

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 /Perk Labs Inc. (CSE:PERK)(OTC PINK:PKLBF)(FKT:PKLB) ("Perk" or the "Company"), is providing a further update on the status of the management cease trade order (the "MCTO") that was granted by the British Columbia Securities Commission (the "BCSC") on April 3, 2024.The Company applied to the BCSC for an extension of the MCTO due to unexpected delays with the preparation of its audited annual financial statements and the related management's discussion and analysis for the year ended November 30, 2023,(the "Annual Filings"), which were due on April 1, 2024. The Company has been granted an extension of the MCTO until July 4, 2024.The MCTO prohibits all trading in the capital of the Company, whether directly or indirectly, by the Company's CEO and CFO. The MCTO does not affect the ability of other shareholders to trade in the securities of the Company.The Company and its auditors continue to work diligently toward completing the Annual Filings as soon as possible.The Company confirms that since the date of the earlier announcement: (i) other than as described above, there has been no material change to the information set out in the announcement that has not been generally disclosed; (ii) there has been no failure by the Company in fulfilling its stated intentions with respect to satisfying the provisions of the alternative information guidelines set out in NP 12-203; (iii) there has not been any other specified default by the Company under NP 12-203; and (iv) there is no other material information concerning the affairs of the Company that has not been generally disclosed.The Company will continue to satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines under NP 12-203 by issuing bi-weekly default status reports in the form of news releases for so long as it remains in default of the above-noted filing requirementsAbout Perk Labs Inc. Perk Labs Inc., (CSE:PERK)(OTC PINK:PKLBF)(FKT:PKLB), the owner of Getit Technologies Inc. and Perk Hero Software Inc. ("Perk Labs"), provides innovative mobile ordering and payment systems, allowing customers the ability to scan a QR code or NFC sticker to order and pay for their purchases directly from their phone. Perk Labs specializes in providing a single unified payment interface for complex purchase environments - environments that have multiple retailers processing an array of different transactions, including food and beverage purchases, merchandise sales, ticketing, registrations, donations, parking fees, and service payments. Perk Labs provides a custom-branded solution that is ideal for multi-transaction brands such as stadiums and arenas, university and college campuses, conference centers, hotels and resorts, festivals and events, and professional service companies.For more information, contact: Ryan HardyCEO(833) 338-0299 investors@ getittechnologies.io Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements (collectively "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: "may", "believe", "thinks", "expect", "exploring", "expand", "could", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "pursue", "potentially", "projected", "should", "will" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. These forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties, relate to, among other things, the discussion of the Company's business strategies and its expectations concerning future operations, and expectations of future revenues for the Company. Although the Company considers these forward-looking statements to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect, and the forward-looking statements in this release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking information, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur.SOURCE: Perk Labs Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 10:00:23

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Q Precious and Battery Metals Corp. ("QMET" or the "Company") (CSE:QMET) is pleased to announce the contracting of Explo-Logik Inc to provide geological services on their Quebec projects including the La Corne South project, located north of Val d'Or.Explo-Logik offers professional management of mining exploration projects in addition to providing specialized equipment for exploration. Explo-Logik is a UL Ecologo certified company with a base in Val d'Or Quebec. Richard Penn, CEO of QMET, states "I am pleased to have put together an excellent team of professionals and technicians to undertake the next exploration program on the La Corne South project". The geologic team is scheduled to meet with the QMET management in Val d'Or this coming week to complete an overview of the project and lay out the first planned diamond drill holes. Drilling is scheduled to commence immediately following the project review.Q BATTERY METALS CORPQ Battery Metals exploration programs undertaken in Quebec are supervised by Dr. Mathieu Piche, OGQ, with office located north of Val d'Or. He is also a Q Battery Metals company director. The company has 100% interest in mineral claims within Quebec, targeting critical and precious metals. Projects include the La Corne South VMS + Pegmatite Lithium Project, McKenzie East Gold property, and the recently acquired Pontax Lithium and Versant rare earth elements (REE) properties.Cautionary StatementThis press release contains forward-looking statements based on assumptions as of that date. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to exploration and development; the ability of the Company to obtain additional financing; the Company's limited operating history; the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations; fluctuations in the prices of commodities; operating hazards and risks; competition and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in the Company's Prospectus dated September 8, 2017 available on www.sedar.com . Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions, and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions, and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.On behalf of the Board of DirectorsRichard PennCEO(778) 384-8923SOURCE: Q Precious and Battery Metals Corp.
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 18:01:42

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RADNOR, PA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP( www.ktmc.com) informs investors that a securities class action lawsuit has been filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against Fastly, Inc. ("Fastly") (NYSE:FSLY). The action charges Fastly with violations of the federal securities laws, including omissions and fraudulent misrepresentations relating to the company's business, operations, and prospects. As a result of Fastly's materially misleading statements and omissions to the public, Fastly's investors have suffered significant losses.If you suffered Fastly losses, you mayCLICK HERE or go to: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/fastly-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=fsly&mktm=r You can also contact attorney Jonathan Naji, Esq. of Kessler Topaz by calling (484) 270-1453 or by email at info@ ktmc.com . The lead plaintiff deadline is July 23, 2024.CANNOT VIEW THIS VIDEO? PLEASE CLICK HEREor go to: https://youtu.be/MVbQwTvArKo DEFENDANTS' ALLEGED MISCONDUCTOn February 14, 2024, Fastly issued a press release providing full year ("FY") 2024 revenue guidance in a range of $580 million to $590 million. In that same press release, Fastly's CEO was quoted stating, "[t]his quarter demonstrated the progress we've made in operational and financial rigor resulting in strong gross margins and non-GAAP net income," and "[o]ur go-to-market, packaging and channel efforts through 2023 delivered an inflection in our customer acquisition as we closed out the year. This positions us well for 2024, driving our mission to make every user experience fast, safe, and engaging." On May 1, 2024, Fastly announced its Q1 2024 results. Despite Fastly's positive statements just weeks before about its performance and near-term business prospects, Fastly reported revenue of only $133.52 million, missing consensus estimates. Fastly also lowered its fiscal year 2024 revenue guidance to a range of $555 million to $565 million, significantly below its previously issued FY 2024 revenue guidance of $580 million to $590 million, and likewise below consensus estimates of $584.62 million for the same period.Then, on May 2, 2024, Bank of America downgraded Fastly stock from a "Buy" rating to an "Underperform" rating and cut its price target on the stock from $18 per share to a mere $8 per share. On this news, the price of Fastly shares declined by $4.14 per share, or approximately 32.02%, from $12.93 per share on May 1, 2024 to close at $8.79 on May 2, 2024.WHAT CAN I DO?Fastly investors may, no later than July 23, 2024, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPor other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPencourages Fastly investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. The class action complaint against Fastly, Kula v. Fastly, Inc., et al., Case No. 24-cv-03170, is filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASE OR GO TO: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/fastly-inc?utm_source=PR&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=fsly&mktm=r WHO CAN BE A LEAD PLAINTIFF?A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff.ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLPKessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPprosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. The complaint in this action was not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLPplease visit www.ktmc.com CONTACT:Jonathan Naji, Esq.Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP(484) 270-1453280 King of Prussia RoadRadnor, PA 19087info@ ktmc.com May be considered attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Levi & Korsinsky notifies investors that it has commenced an investigation of Axos Financial, Inc. ("Axos") (NYSE:AX) concerning possible violations of federal securities laws.On June 4, 2024, Hindenburg Research released a report about Axos that raised serious concerns about Axos' credit metrics and suggested potential manipulation or distortion. The report particularly highlighted that Axos' disclosed loan-to-value (LTV) ratios in commercial real estate were significantly lower than those of its peers- 17% less than the median average of nine similar financial entities. Furthermore, accusations from a former Axos credit review officer, which were documented in litigation records, claimed that Axos habitually misrepresented the average LTV ratios of its loans to investors. Following this report Axos' share price was trading down in pre-market trading on June 4, 2024. To obtain additional information, go to:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. either via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or by telephone at (212)363-7500.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212)363-7500 Fax: (212)363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 16:25:39

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ST. JOHN'S, NL / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Sokoman Minerals Corp. (TSXV:SIC)(OTCQB:SICNF) ("Sokoman" or the "Company") is pleased to report that the Killick Lithium Property, jointly owned by the Company, Benton Resources Inc. ("Benton"), and Piedmont Lithium Inc. ("Piedmont") through Vinland Lithium Inc., will be collaborating in a total of $1.322 million in NSERC (Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada) grants to conduct research studies on the Killick Lithium Property in southern Newfoundland. The three-year project entitled: "The origin of lithium resources in Southern Newfoundland", began April 1, 2024. The work is led by researchers from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia and Memorial University of Newfoundland. Additional contributions from partner organizations will include staff and resources from Sokoman, Benton and Piedmont, as well as geoscientists from the Geological Survey (Government of Newfoundland and Labrador). The grant was awarded by the NSERC Alliance Missions Grants special call for projects related to Critical Minerals Research. To increase the supply of responsibly sourced critical minerals and support the development of domestic and global value chains for the green and digital economy, Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy was released in December 2022 with the intent of continuing to provide foundational support to Canada's mining sector to take advantage of existing and emerging opportunities. Among the 31 minerals that Canada considers critical, Canada's Critical Minerals Strategy identified six minerals (including lithium) which were initially prioritized for their distinct potential to spur Canadian economic growth and their necessity as inputs for priority supply chains.More information about the program can be found here: https://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/Innovate-Innover/AllianceMissions-MissionsAlliance/CFP-ADP/CMR-RSLMC/Index_eng.asp A key benefit of this research will be the opportunity for research students to receive academic training and apply their knowledge to an active exploration project. The students will be trained in field methods, data collection techniques, and scientific communication, which are highly sought-after skills required for qualified geoscientists to undertake mineral exploration and geoscience research on critical mineral systems in Canada.Timothy Froude, P. Geo., President and CEO of Sokoman Minerals states; "We are thrilled this academic collaboration was awarded this substantial amount of funding directed towards the understanding of the lithium and associated critical mineral systems we discovered on the Killick Lithium Project. It's the type of work that rarely gets performed on mineral discoveries, as most of the funds raised and spent in the normal course of the vast majority of exploration projects are focused on delivering assays and drill results to the market. The in-depth research that the teams led by Dr. Donnelly Archibald at St. Francis Xavier University and Drs Eric Thiessen and David Lowe at Memorial University, in harmony with the partner organizations, will certainly aid in our search for additional lithium and associated critical minerals at Killick as well as regionally." Stephen Stares, President and CEO of Benton states; "We are elated that such a highly skilled team of professionals will assist in advancing the understanding of our discovery through the critical mineral initiatives set forth by our various institutions. We look forward to the findings in our collective participation." The main research objective is to better understand the geological controls on the formation of lithium-rich rocks in southern Newfoundland to better inform exploration targeting practices and promote lithium discovery. Addressing this primary objective involves a multidisciplinary investigation into (i) the processes controlling the transport of lithium from its source to host rocks, (ii) the magmatic emplacement processes that resulted in the formation of the lithium-rich rocks, (iii) the lithium source(s), (iv) structure and deformation that controls the present expression of lithium-rich rocks, and (v) the character and extent of associated metamorphic aureoles. The combination of fieldwork, mineralogy, geochronology, geochemistry, structural geology, regional geology, tectonics, sedimentology, and economic geology will yield a holistic model for the evolution of lithium pegmatite systems. Taken together, the new data and interpretations, coupled with the spatiotemporal relationship of regional geological context, will help us to understand the petrogenesis of lithium pegmatites in southern Newfoundland.QPStephen House (P.Geo.), Vice President of Exploration for Benton Resources Inc., the 'Qualified Person' under National Instrument 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release and prepared or supervised its preparation.About Sokoman Minerals Corp.Sokoman Minerals Corp. is a discovery-oriented company with projects in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The Company's primary focus is its portfolio of gold projects; the 100%-owned flagship, advanced-stage Moosehead, Crippleback Lake, and the district-scale Fleur de Lys project near Baie Verte in northwestern Newfoundland, that is targeting Dalradian-type orogenic gold mineralization similar to the Curraghinalt and Cavanacaw deposits in Northern Ireland. The Company entered into a strategic alliance with Benton Resources Inc. through three, large-scale, joint-venture properties including Grey River, Golden Hope, and Kepenkeck in Newfoundland. Sokoman is one of the largest landholders in Newfoundland, in Canada's newest and rapidly emerging gold districts.In October 2023, Sokoman and Benton completed an agreement with Piedmont Lithium Inc., a major developer of lithium projects and processing plants in the USA, and exactly the right partner to have to advance the lithium project. The agreement provides for Piedmont to earn up to 62.5% of the Killick Lithium Project (formerly Golden Hope project) by funding up to $12 million in exploration expenses and issuing $10 million common shares in three stages. The Killick Lithium Project has been transferred to Killick Lithium Inc. (Killick), a 100%-owned subsidiary of Vinland Lithium Inc. (Vinland). Newly created Vinland has received $2 million in financing from Piedmont for a 19.9% interest, with the balance of ownership between Sokoman and Benton. Sokoman and Benton will continue to operate the exploration efforts at Killick through the earn-in stages. Sokoman and Benton will retain a royalty of 2% NSR on future production. Piedmont will have exclusive marketing rights for the promotion and sale of a
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 15:25:22

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Santa Cruz Graphite Mine Highlights:Final payment of land purchase for Phase 1 Plant and Operations. Approval of the Definitive Mining Licenses For Phases 1, 2 & 3. All mining and environmental licenses/permits are approved and in-hand for the future phased, modular expansion of Santa Cruz graphite production up to 50,000 tonnes/year. Phase 1 construction is on schedule for substantial completion by the end of June 2024 followed by a 6-week plant commissioning and ramp-up period. Commercial sales are planned to start in September 2024. Name plate production capacity is expected to be reached in Q4 2024. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 /South Star Battery Metals Corp. ("South Star" or the "Company") (TSXV: STS )(OTCQB: STSBF ) is pleased to announce the final payment of the previously announced ( Aug. 02, 2022 ) land purchase required for construction of the Phase 1 mine and plant facilities. The farm totals approximately 325 hectares and is where all the plant facilities, mine and infrastructure installations are required for the first three years of operations at its Santa Cruz Graphite Project in Bahia, Brazil.Santa Cruz Graphite Definitive Mining License For Phases 1, 2 and 3 and Mine Construction UpdateThe definitive mining license for 5 areas totaling 4,431 hectares for South Star's flagship Santa Cruz Graphite Mine ("Santa Cruz") in northeastern Brazil's Bahia state has been approved by the Brazilian Ministry of Mines and Energy ("MME"). These licenses are for life-of-mine and include all the main areas required for Phases 1, 2 and 3 mining operations. Three additional claims are in final evaluation at MME, and the Company expects approval by Q3 2024.South Star's flagship Santa Cruz Graphite Mine ("Santa Cruz") in northeastern Brazil's Bahia state is scheduled to complete construction of the Phase 1 plant in June of 2024, followed by an estimated six weeks of commissioning and production ramp-up. The current Phase 1 plant can produce approximately 1,000 tonnes per month, once steady-state operations are reached.Richard Pearce, CEO of South Star, remarked, "The Company now owns the land where our Phase 1 installations and operations are located, and the purchase further strengthens our balance sheet. With the approval of the definitive mining licenses, Phases 2 and 3 of Santa Cruz are now derisked from a permitting and licensing standpoint, and we have a clear path to scaling production as the markets and our clients ask for additional high-quality Brazilian graphite concentrates. Our agreement with Sprott already secures approximately 50% of our Phase 2 CAPEX, and our team is pushing to complete an updated Feasibility Study on Santa Cruz incorporating Phase 3 production. As promised, our team is executing on our strategy to deliver responsible production with phased, modular plants, scalable assets in Tier-1 jurisdictions, and a go-to-market strategy to take advantage of being one of the first movers in the Americas. Santa Cruz is the first new graphite production in the Americas since 1996."# # #ABOUT SOUTH STAR BATTERY METALS CORP.South Star Battery Metals Corp. is a Canadian battery metals project developer focused on the selective acquisition and development of near-term production projects in the Americas. South Star's Santa Cruz Graphite Project, located in Southern Bahia, Brazil is the first of a series of industrial and battery metals projects that will be put into production. Brazil is the second-largest graphite-producing region in the world with more than 80 years of continuous mining. Santa Cruz has at-surface mineralization in friable materials, and successful large-scale pilot-plant testing (> 30t) has been completed. The results of the testing show that approximately 65% of graphite concentrate is +80 mesh with good recoveries and 95%-99% graphitic carbon (Cg). With excellent infrastructure and logistics, South Star is fully funded for Phase 1, and the construction and commissioning are underway. Santa Cruz will be the first new graphite production in the Americas since 1996, with Phase 1 commercial production projected in Q3 2024. Phase 2 production (25,000 tpa) is partially funded and planned for 2026, while Phase 3 (50,000 tpa) is scheduled for 2028.South Star's second project in the development pipeline is strategically located in Alabama in the center of a developing electric vehicle, aerospace, and defense hub in the southeastern United States. The BamaStar Project includes a historic mine active during the First and Second World Wars. A NI43-101 technical report with the maiden resource estimate has been filed on SEDAR. Trenching, Phase 1 drilling, sampling, analysis, and preliminary metallurgical testing have been completed. The testing indicates a traditional crush/grind/flotation concentration circuit that achieved grades of approximately 94-97% Cg with approximately 86% recoveries. South Star is executing on its plan to create a multi-asset, diversified battery metals company with near-term operations in strategic jurisdictions. South Star trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol STS, and on the OTCQB under the symbol STSBF.South Star is committed to a corporate culture, project execution plan and safe operations that embrace the highest standards of ESG principles, based on transparency, stakeholder engagement, ongoing education, and stewardship. To learn more, please visit the Company website at http://www.southstarbatterymetals.com This news release has been reviewed and approved by Richard Pearce, P.E., a "Qualified Person" under National Instrument 43-101 and President and CEO of South Star Battery Metals Corp.On behalf of the Board,MR. RICHARD PEARCEChief Executive OfficerFor additional information, please contact:South Star Investor RelationsEmail: invest@ southstarbatterymetals.com Phone:+1 (604) 706-0212Website: www.southstarbatterymetals.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/southstarbm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southstarbatterymetals LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/southstarbatterymetals/ YouTube:South Star Battery Metals - YouTubeCAUTIONARY STATEMENTNeither the 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 press release.FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATIONThis press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements
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Top Five Conveyor Car Wash Company Adds Third Idaho Location to FootprintTHOMASTON, GA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Tidal Wave Auto Spa, one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash companies, is pleased to announce the grand opening of the brand-new Burley, ID, location at 300 N Overland Avenue.To celebrate the Grand Opening, the new Burley location is offering eight days of free car washes from June 19-June 26. This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners to experience Tidal Wave's premium wash option, Graph-X4, at no cost. Additionally, any new customer that joins a Clean Club unlimited wash membership plan during Grand Opening week will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for only $9.97 - saving up to $40."When we opened our first Tidal Wave Auto Spa in Georgia over two decades ago, we were a small-town express car wash focused on delivering an exceptional wash experience to our neighboring communities," said founder and CEO Scott Blackstock. "To be able to serve customers over 2,000 miles away from where it all began with the same industry-leading wash experience is incredibly exciting for our team. We've opened three brand-new locations in Idaho this year and look forward to providing our easy, efficient and enjoyable car wash experience to these communities for years to come." Burley, ID, Location: 300 N Overland Ave, Burley, ID 83318Nearby: Pocatello, IDTidal Wave Auto Spa is committed to providing every customer with an exceptional car wash experience through industry-leading car care technology, clean and attractive locations, and friendly customer service at every location. Stop by for a single wash or join Tidal Wave's Clean Club for the ultimate experience. Members can wash every day of the month for one convenient monthly payment and save time with exclusive club member wash lanes - plus, memberships can be used at any Tidal Wave location. For those needing to wash multiple cars, Tidal Wave offers discounted monthly family plans and fleet plans for businesses with five or more vehicles.Tidal Wave has been operating in Idaho since 2024 and has three brand-new locations open seven days a week in Mountain Home, Pocatello, and Burley. For additional information, including upcoming locations, fundraising, fleet plans, and more, please visit: https://www.tidalwaveautospa.com/ About Tidal Wave Auto SpaTidal Wave Auto Spa is an industry-leading conveyor car wash company founded in 1999 by Scott and Hope Blackstock in Thomaston, GA. Tidal Wave is committed to providing cutting-edge car care technology and exceptional customer service at each of their 268 locations sprawling 27 states across the South, Midwest, and Northern United States. In 2020, Tidal Wave partnered with Golden Gate Capital to facilitate their accelerated growth across the country. Tidal Wave is one of the top five conveyor car wash companies in the country and has been included in the Inc. 5000 list for America's Fastest Growing Companies since 2020. The company was recognized as a 2023 Champion of Charity Honoree by Professional Carwashing & Detailing and has raised over $3 million dollars for organizations in their communities.Contact InformationHeather ColemanMarketing Managermedia@ tidalwaveautospa.com Andrea TraylorSenior Director of Digital Marketingandrea.traylor@tidalwaveautospa.com 2058212220SOURCE: Tidal Wave Auto SpaView the original press release on newswire.com
PR-Inside.com: 2024-06-19 09:15:22

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 /Troy Minerals Inc. ("Troy"or the "Company") (CSE:TROY)(OTCQB:TROYF)(FSE:VJ3) is pleased to announce the formal recognition of silica as a critical mineral by the Government of Canada. This acknowledgement validates Troy's belief in the importance of silica and strengthens the Company's position in the critical minerals sector.The Company is currently pursuing the strategic acquisition of CBGB Ventures Corp. ("CBGB"), which holds interests in two high purity silica projects: the Table Mountain Silica Project in British Columbia and the Tsagaan Zalaa Silica Project in Mongolia (see news release June 10, 2024).Rana Vig, CEO of Troy Minerals, stated, "The recent inclusion of silica in Canada's critical minerals list underscores its significance in modern technology and green energy solutions. Troy was quick to recognize silica's potential, and our pending acquisition of CBGB places us in an excellent position to capitalize on these latest developments." Upon completion of the acquisition of CBGB, and the success of the Table Mountain mine exploration and development, the Company will be well positioned to become a leader in the rapidly expanding high-purity quartz silica industry in Canada. High-purity quartz silica currently represents a $30 billion total addressable market by 2030 for photovoltaics, solar panels, semiconductors and batteries. The location of Table Mountain creates logistical advantages with easy access to transportation infrastructure, including rail.Considering the formal recognition of silica by the Government of Canada, and upon the successful completion of the CBGB acquisition, Troy Minerals plans to accelerate the exploration and advancement towards development of its silica projects, with a focus to commence production in Canada as soon as technically and commercially viable. The Company anticipates that the streamlined permitting process for a quarry, compared to traditional mines, will facilitate a quicker path to production and cash flow pending exploration success.PRIVATE PLACEMENT FINANCINGSWhile the Company currently has a healthy treasury and no debt, in order to accelerate work on its projects, the Company is pleased to announce that it is conducting a non-brokered private placement offering of up to 8,000,000 units of the Company ("Units") at a price of $0.25 per Unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of up to $2,000,000 (the "Unit Offering").Each Unit is comprised of one common share of the Company and one-half of one common share purchase warrant. Each whole warrant is exercisable into one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.40 per share for a period of 24 months from the closing date.The Company will also conduct a non-brokered private placement offering of up to 3,571,429 flow-through units (the "FT Units") at a price of $0.28 per FT Unit, for aggregate proceeds of up to $1,000,000 (the "FT Unit Offering"). Each FT Unit will be comprised of one common share of the Company which qualifies as a "flow-through" share as defined in subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of the Company. Each whole warrant is exercisable into one non-flow-through common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.45 per share for period of 24 months from the closing date.The net proceeds from the Unit Offering will be used for advancing the Company's projects, working capital, marketing, and general corporate purposes. The gross proceeds from the FT Unit Offering will be used to incur Canadian exploration expenses that are intended to qualify as flow-through mining expenditures as those terms are defined in the tax act, which the Company intends to renounce to the purchasers of the flow-through common shares.Closing of the Unit Offering and the FT Unit Offering are anticipated to occur in one or more tranches. Closing is subject to certain conditions, including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals. Securities issued in connection with the Unit Offering and the FT Unit Offering will be subject to a four-month hold period, in accordance with securities laws and the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange, as applicable. The Unit Offering and the FT Unit Offering are subject to CSE acceptance.MARKETING AGREEMENTThe Company also announces that it has engaged Lakefront Enterprises Inc. (Lakefront) located at 27th Floor, 595 Burrard Street, Vancouver, B.C. (email: Info@ lakefrontenterprisesmedia.com) to provide digital marketing services, including SEO (search engine optimization), PPC (pay per click), e-mail, YouTube and social media channels, to increase corporate awareness. The media disseminated will be generated using publicly available information. The company will pay Lakefront a cash fee of $50,000 plus applicable taxes. Pursuant to the agreement with Lakefront, services are scheduled to commence on June 19, 2024 and will last for a period of approximately 30 days. The company will not issue any securities to Lakefront as compensation for its marketing services. As of the date hereof, to the company's knowledge, Lakefront (including its directors and officers) does not own any securities of the company and has an arm's-length relationship with the company.ON BEHALFOF THE BOARD,Rana Vig | Presidentand DirectorTelephone: 604-218-4766Email: rana@ ranavig.com Forward-Looking StatementsStatement Regarding Forward-Looking Information: This releaseincludes certain statements that may be deemed"forward-looking statements". All statements in this release,other than statements of historical facts, that address eventsor developments that Troy ResourcesInc. (the "Company") expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that arenot historical factsand are generally, but not always,identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include results of exploration activities may not show quality and quantity necessary for further exploration or future exploitation of minerals deposits%2
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Harbor Diversified, Inc. ("Harbor Diversified" or "the Company") (OTC:HRBR) 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 Harbor Diversified securities between May 10, 2022 and March 29, 2024, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/HRBR Case Details:According to the Complaint, Harbor Diversified describes itself as "a non-operating holding company that is the parent of a consolidated group of subsidiaries, including AWAC Aviation, Inc. (AWAC'), which is the sole member of Air Wisconsin Airlines LLC (Air Wisconsin'), a regional air carrier. Harbor is also the direct parent of three other subsidiaries: (1) Lotus Aviation Leasing, LLC (Lotus'), which leases flight equipment to Air Wisconsin, (2) Air Wisconsin Funding LLC (AWF'), which provides flight equipment financing to Air Wisconsin, and (3) Harbor Therapeutics, Inc. (Therapeutics'), which is a non-operating entity with no material assets." The Complaint alleges that Harbor Diversified made materially false and/or misleading statements because the Company misrepresented and failed to disclose the following adverse facts pertaining to the Company's business, operations, and prospects, which were known to Defendants or recklessly disregarded by them. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that:(1) Harbor Diversified's financial statements from May 9, 2022 to the present were misstated due to improper revenue recognition;(2) Harbor Diversified lacked adequate internal controls; and(3) as a result, Harbor Diversified's statements about its business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all times.The truth began to emerge, according to the Complaint, on March 29, 2024, when Harbor Diversified filed with the SEC a current report on Form 8-K in which it announced that certain of its previously-issued financial statements would need to be restated as a result of improper revenue recognition. Further, Harbor Diversified disclosed a material weakness in its internal controls that has the company's management evaluating "appropriate remediation actions." On this news, according to the Complaint, the price of Harbor Diversified stock fell by $0.28 per share, or14.25% , to close at $1.73 on April 1, 2024.Therefore, the Complaint further alleges that as a result of Defendants' wrongful acts and omissions, and the precipitous decline in the market value of the Harbor Diversified's common shares, investors have suffered significant losses and damages.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/HRBR 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 Harbor Diversified you have until July 8, 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 Miller 332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Rent theJalingastudio in Dubai and upgrade your webinars to a new level.Today, when connectivity is king and knowledge is just a click away, webinars have emerged as a powerful tool for communication, education and collaboration. Whether you're a business owner aiming to engage customers, an educator seeking to get knowledge remotely, or a professional looking to network, webinars offer a dynamic platform to connect with audiences worldwide. Let's try and find out why webinars are extremely highly recommended in every field today.Understanding WebinarsAt its core, a webinar, short for web-based seminar, is a live or pre-recorded presentation, lecture or workshop conducted over the internet. Hosted using specialized webinar software, these virtual events allow presenters to deliver content to a geographically dispersed audience in real-time. Participants can engage through features like live chat, polls and Q&A sessions, fostering a sense of involvement and collaboration.Webinars have come a long way to become what they are today: an effective tool for marketing and engaging with your audience. Here are some interesting facts about webinar statistics:The global webinar and virtual event market will reach $4.4B in 2025 (Frost & Sullivan - 2021)The primary reasons for this growth are advanced data reporting, accessibility, potential reach, ease-of-use of webinar tools, less business travel, and sustainability.Over 83% of webinars have fewer than 50 live attendees (Contrast - 2024)Most webinars don't have thousands of people attending, and that's ok since smaller webinars have higher live attendance rates and average engagement.67% of professionals want "Tips, tricks, and best practices" content (BrightTALK - 2021)The category was voted "most valuable for professional growth" followed by course (53%), case studies (53%), and industry trends (50%).Why Are Webinars Effective?Accessibility: Participants can join from anywhere via the internet, breaking down geographical barriers.Cost-Efficiency: Usually, the most expensive thing in your estimate for organizing a webinar is the equipment and platform for the webinar itself. All other costs - venue, catering and so on - are all gone. This way you can save up to 75% of your budget by choosing a live event over an in-person one.Scalability: With the right platform, webinars can accommodate large audiences, allowing organizations to reach a broader demographic.Engagement: Interactive features like live chat and polls facilitate audience engagement, enhancing learning and retention.Data Insights: Webinar analytics provide valuable insights into participant behavior, helping presenters refine their content and strategies.Examples And CasesLet's take a closer look at a concrete example of an effective webinar. Innovative Approaches in Education for Creating Future Leaders was a groundbreaking webinar that brought together representatives of large educational organizations from the MENA region, educators and principals.Watch the full webinar here .Hosted in Jalinga video studio, this webinar addressed a pressing issue: the need for transformative education to prepare future leaders. The speakers, Immanuel Azaad Moonesar R. D and Dr. Racquel Warner, experts in their fields, discussed why traditional educational approaches usually fail in nurturing the skills and mindset required for leadership in the 21st century.Why can this webinar be considered a success? The experts conveyed their thoughts and discussions to the audience both in verbal format and supplementing it with a high-quality presentation. In addition, the webinar was not interrupted due to technical problems, as the webinar was conducted with the help of a Jalinga video studio! At the end of the webinar, the experts were also ready to answer any questions from the audience, thanks to the webinar's online format. So that's all you need for a perfect webinar: an exciting and relevant topic, amazing speakers, and just one click at the Jalinga video studio at Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government.ConclusionWebinars represent a versatile and accessible tool for communication, learning and collaboration. By choosing this format and using the right tools, such as Jalinga video studio, you ensure you have a strong connection with your audience and can be sure your online event will be relevant and successful. Whether you're a seasoned presenter or a first-time host, embracing webinars can elevate your outreach efforts and connect you with audiences on a global scale.Today, when connectivity is king and knowledge is just a click away, webinars have emerged as a powerful tool for communication, education and collaboration. Whether you're a business owner aiming to engage customers, an educator seeking to get knowledge remotely, or a professional looking to network, webinars offer a dynamic platform to connect with audiences worldwide. Speaking about why webinars are highly recommended in every field.Try for freejalinga.com PR Contact: ZEX PR WIREinfo@ zexprwire.com SOURCE: Jalinga
The World Food Programme (WFP) says it will increase its food and nutrition assistance programme in some countries in West and Central Africa in June.

WFP, through the programme, hopes to reach 7.3 million people as the June-August lean season is underway at a time when hunger levels are high and food resources are low.

The programme will aid the response plans of national governments in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger.

WFP, in a statement on Tuesday, stated that with the right amount of funding, WFPs initiative can reach 12 million people.

However, with diminishing resources available, the international body said that humanitarians working with the programme had reached fewer people than anticipated.

This comes as malnutrition in West and Central Africa is reaching alarming levels, along with a projection that 55 million people will face acute hunger during the lean season.

Chris Nikoi, WFPs Regional Director for Western Africa, said this crisis calls for transformative solutions to assist vulnerable families with food and other needs.

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We need to continue prioritising emergency response for those most in need, Mr Nikoi said.

But, we need more investment in sustainable solutions to help strengthen food security, improve agricultural productivity and purchasing power of families at the right time and cushion economic and climate shocks.

Many dealing with acute hunger in West and Central Africa have been left without assistance and risk having their situation worsened since funding for the programme has not kept apace with increasing crises in the region.

WFP said this is worrying since the 2024 seasonal forecast reveals weather that could disrupt farming and prolong the next lean season.

The escalation of humanitarian needs far outstrips available resources, Mr Nikoi said. The only way out of this cycle is to prioritise durable solutions.

WPF efforts

Currently, WFP supports long-term transformative hunger solutions and improving government systems that increase communities shock resilience via social protection and investments in inclusive food systems.

WFP programmes have helped to, among other things, restore degraded lands to food and fodder production, support childrens education, improve access to food, boost incomes across the Sahel and provide more frequent and diversified meals to civilians in Nigerian villages.

The programme said initiatives including strengthening poor families purchasing power with timely shock-responsive social protection schemes need to be prioritised and expanded as a humanitarian response alone is financially not sustainable and does not address the root causes of hunger and malnutrition. (NAN)

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The 2024 Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State held on Tuesday, is one for the books.

The event, trending on social media, dazzled with its spectacular glitz, grandeur, and cultural resonance. It was a celebration that will be remembered for a long time.

This year, the festival honours Awujale, the king of Ijebu-Ode and celebrates the rich traditions of the Ijebu people, drawing notable figures from near and far.

Among these distinguished guests, one man stood out for his striking appearance and compelling personal story: Farooq Oreagba, Managing Director and CEO of NG Clearing Limited.

Mr Oreagba made a grand entrance at the festival, arriving on horseback in an eye-catching ensemble.

His pictures and videos trending on social media have resonated well with the local palance of steez and composure, as he effortlessly embodies style.

He exuded elegance and style, dressed in a green and lemon agbada and sokoto outfit, complemented by a matching cap, red coral beads, and a gold crossbody chain.

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His tattoos, a big tobacco pipe, an Apple wristwatch, and stylish sunglasses further accentuated his look.

This unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements made him the centre of attention.

As he rode through the festival on his decorated horse, Mr Oreagbas charismatic presence was undeniable.

Photos and videos of his appearance quickly went viral, capturing the interest and admiration of many Nigerians.

Some praised his fashion-forward approach, while others were curious about his personal life, particularly his marital status.

Background

Beyond his striking appearance, Mr Oreagba is an accomplished investment professional. As the head of NG Clearing Limited, he plays a crucial role in Nigerias financial industry.

The 58-year-old was also a former member of the Derivatives Product Advisory Committee of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, underscoring his influence and expertise.

Mr Oreagbas educational background is as impressive as his professional achievements. He began his education at Ijebu-Ode Grammar School and later attended Mayflower School in Ikenne, Ogun State.

Mr Oreagba pursued a finance degree at Oxford University in London, graduating with distinction.

He furthered his studies with a masters degree at the University of East London and another in Business Management from Coventry University.

He has also acquired numerous certifications from various educational institutions at home and abroad, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and excellence.

Having battled and overcome bone cancer, his stylish appearance at the Ojude Oba festival is not just about fashion but also about resilience and triumph.

Ojude Oba Festival 2024

The 2024 Ojude Oba festival, held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, once again showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Ijebu people.

Ojude Oba, meaning kings forecourt in Yoruba, is a renowned annual festival celebrated a few days after the Muslim Sallah festivities.

This years theme, Ojude Oba: Unity and Harmony, Our Gift, captured the essence of the event, bringing together people from all walks of life to honour the king, famous as the Awujale and celebrate Ijebu traditions.

It is a grand display of respect for the Awujale, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Adetona (Gbadebo II), Nigerias longest-reigning monarch.

The festival honours the past and inspires future generations to cherish and uphold their heritage.

This years festival drew notable figures from across the nation.

Among the distinguished attendees were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, former governors, Olusegun Osoba and Senator, Gbenga Daniel, Shuib Salis, Speaker of the State House of Assembly Daisi Elemide, and other dignitaries.

The presence of these high-profile individuals underscored the festivals importance in the Nigerian cultural calendar.

A significant festival highlight was the parade of various age-grade sets, known as Regberegbes, and descendants of prominent Ijebu Ode Baloguns. Groups including Balogun Odunuga, Balogun Kuku, Balogun Agboola Alausa, Balogun Alatishe, Balogun Otubu, and Balogun Adesoye showcased their exceptional horsemanship as they marched and charged on their horses, paying homage to the King.

Recognising its cultural significance, the Minister of Culture, Art, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, announced plans to list the Ojude Oba festival as an event approved and supported by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

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Abdulmumuni Abiola, son of the acclaimed winner of the 12 June 1993 presidential elections, the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, has recounted how DNA confirmed his dad fathered 55 children, and not 103, as widely believed.

Mr Abiola, during an interview on Seun Okinbaloyes Mic On podcast on YouTube, said his father had 40 wives and 103 children, pending DNA confirmation.

The Abiola family were not that much, but people thought we were a lotjust 55 children. There were 40 wives, but I think they (the wives) were about forty-something according to the will. Most of the wives had maybe one or two children for my daddy.

When my father was alive, he paid the fees of about 103 children. But like I said, not all of them were his. After the blood tests (DNA), we happened to be 55, a manageable number if we were in a country of 200 million people. Youll think my father was enjoying himself, but not that much. Only 55 children with all the time he had.

He stated that he contacted the legitimate children, some of whom were young, when DNA tests confirmed their paternity.

Furthermore, he said he reached out to all of them as adults to strategise and restructure their fathers business, but the plan failed.

To ensure unity among his children, Mr Abiola said his fathers will specified that everything (MKO Abiolas properties) should be sold after the wives received their shares and the proceeds divided among the children.

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Kola Abiola

During the interview, Mr Abiola, whose mother, Kudirat Abiola, was assassinated on 4 June 1996 in Lagos State, also claimed his fathers goals were not achieved and cited plausible reasons.

He said: My father stated in his will that after they gave his wives the money, everything else should be sold and equally shared among the children. I dont believe my father wanted to sell them (properties). He wanted us to come together as one unit (family). Still, we couldnt achieve that for some reason, especially with the first family, where Kola Abiola is the first son.

Its hard for me to say Kola and I are not on good terms, and I dont want to have an issue with my older brother. I love him, and I hope he does as well. Its our collective responsibility; he should step aside if hes not playing his part. He was in a good position after the crisis and could be the strong voice of true democratic values, but he chose not to. At the time my father was still in jail, he was having a relationship with Ibrahim Babangidas daughter. It was so sad that my father was not alive to see what his first son had turned out to be. Im unhappy with him.

Kolas political ambition

He also acknowledged his strained relationship with Kola and

questioned his (Kolas) political ambition. Kola was the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, which President Bola Tinubu won.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that he polled 72,144 votes.

How many people voted for him (Kola Abiola) when he said he wanted to be president? I wondered how he thought he could be president when he couldnt manage the Abiola Empire and how he would manage Nigeria. How does it work? This is the problem in Nigeria: people dont show capacity in their little workspace and want to get to a higher position. When he was campaigning for president, I told him he wouldnt use my money for the campaign. I asked him to return my money and proceed with his campaign. He owed me a lot of money.

Mr Abiola is the Managing Director of Abiola Logistics Limited.

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Israel has not been paying sufficient attention to the protection of civilians when using precision-guided bombs during the Gaza war, the UN Human Rights Office said on Wednesday.

The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimise to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israels bombing campaign.

Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in Geneva that his office has investigated six Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip between 9 October and 2 December 2023.

It assumes that bombs of the types GBU-31, GBU-32 and GBU-39 were used, which can penetrate concrete and destroy several floors of a building.

They were used to attack residential buildings, a school, a refugee camp and a market, the office said.

At least 218 people had been killed.

In an attack presumably with nine GBU-31 bombs on 2 December, the destruction affected an area with a diameter of 130 metres, the UN agency said.

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It noted that it had destroyed 15 residential buildings and damaged 14 others.

The section of international humanitarian law governing combat situations states that civilian facilities must be spared as much as possible during attacks.

READ ALSO: Four Israeli hostages freed in Gaza complex rescue mission

If the presence of combatants is suspected, attacking forces must weigh up whether the damage caused does not outweigh the desired gains.

The presence of one or more terrorists or those involved in the massacres in Israel on 7 October in a building does not make an entire neighbourhood a legitimate target for an attack, the agency stated.

(dpa/NAN)

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Cyril Ramaphosa, leader of South Africas ruling African National Congress (ANC), took oath as the nations president for the next five years on Wednesday.

The inauguration ceremony took place in Pretoria, the administrative capital.

Nigerias president, Bola Tinubu, departed Nigeria on Tuesday to attend the inauguration in South Africa.

Mr Ramaphosa, 71, was re-elected as South African president by the National Assembly on 14 June with 283 votes against the other nominee, Julius Malema, from the Economic Freedom Fighters, who received 44 votes.

Under the South African Constitution, once elected as president by the National Assembly, the president-elect must assume office within five days.

READ ALSO: Tinubu departs for South Africa

In the general elections on 29 May, the ANC secured 159 out of the 400 seats in the National Assembly.

This is the first time the ANC has fallen below the 50 per cent needed to maintain its 30-year-old outright majority in the lower house of parliament. (Xinhua/NAN)

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Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has condemned the killing of soldiers by gunmen in Abia State, Nigerias south-east.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how masked gunmen, on 30 May, attacked and killed five soldiers in Obikabia Junction in Aba, the commercial hub of the state.

The gunmen, who also burnt the soldiers patrol truck, were said to be enforcing the sit-at-home order declared by IPOB across the South-east to mark their Biafra Day, which is celebrated annually in the region.

IPOB is a group seeking to carve out a sovereign state of Biafra from the South-east and some parts of the South-south of Nigeria.

Theyre our brothers

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday at the premises of the Federal High Court Abuja, Mr Kanu said the killing was at variance with the principles of IPOB.

A video clip, which showed the IPOB leader making the comments, was uploaded on Channels TVs Facebook page.

Mr Kanu, who was at the court in continuation of his trial on alleged terrorism, said some of the slain soldiers were our brothers given that they hailed from the South-east.

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I condemn every manner of killing in its entirety because IPOB was founded on a non-violent principle, and we maintain that (position) until this very day.

And some of these soldiers, we were told, are also our people and their families are in mourning right now, he said.

No violence in South-east

Mr Kanu, for the umpteenth time, condemned the growing violence and killings in the South-east.

I condemn all the killings. I dont want anybody to die.

We are fighting for freedom. So, how can we want violence at the same time? Its not possible. We want people to be free. Thats what were fighting for, he stated.

The IPOB leader argued that Africa had suffered a lot of atrocities from foreign countries, including slavery in Arabia, Europe and America.

He stressed that it was time Africa fixed her problems rather than creating the problems for themselves.

So, I think we should focus our time and devote it to making sure that this continent stands up to what God promised it is going to be. And thats why we are doing what we are doing, Mr Kanu said.

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Wednesday said it has arrested 14 people for allegedly stealing crude oil in Abia.

The NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, who disclosed this in Abuja, stated that the suspects operated an illegal refinery in a forest at Umelehi, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State.

Mr Afolabi said the illegal site was dismantled after the arrest of the nine male and four female suspects by the Commandant Generals Special Intelligence Squad.

He said the Commander of the Squad, Apollo Dandaura, attributed the successful arrest to the credible intelligence of well-meaning Nigerians.

Our operatives were strategically positioned due to the quantity of already siphoned crude oil loaded in locally fabricated cooking ovens for refining into Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

Some had been refined into Kerosene and AGO, with both stored in GP tanks, cellophane bags and many sacks, he said.

The spokesperson said an investigation would be carried out to find out the level of involvement of the suspects. He said the NSCDC would prosecute the oil thieves and their sponsors.

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According to him, some of the recovered exhibits were generator sets, pumping machines, hoses, galvanised metal pipes, shovels, flashlights, cellophane bags, and bags of cement, among others.

Mr Afolabi reiterated the commitment of the NSCDC to safeguarding critical national assets.

(NAN)

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The Court of Appeal, Akure Division, on Wednesday, overturned the verdict of an Osun State High Court which affirmed Abayomi Olubuji of Aga ruling house as the Obalufe of Ile-Ife.

Obalufe is the second in command of the Ooni of Ile-Ife.

Justice Yusuf Bashir, who delivered the judgment of the panel of justices, said that the matter, which he described as hostile, should have been commenced by writ of summon and not by originating summon.

He said that the form of commencement of the case in the lower court was wrong.

According to the judge, the trial court ought not to have assumed jurisdiction over the matter without asking the parties to file pleadings.

He said that the lower court gave judgment based on assumptions without going into the details of the matter.

Mr Bashir, therefore, struck out the verdict of the lower court and declared Oba Idowu Adediwura, as the Obalufe of Ile-Ife.

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Reacting to the verdict, Abdulkadir Orire, the lead counsel for the appellants, said that the appellants approached the court having found errors in the lower courts ruling.

Mr Orire said that the appellants were ready if the respondent wanted to challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court.

In his remarks, Edmund Biri-Omoni, the respondents counsel, said that he would consult his clients to know the next line of action.

Also speaking to journalists, Oba Idowu Adediwura, the validated Obalufe, appreciated God for the victory.

He said that the Ooni, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, had made several efforts to settle the matter between the two parties without any result.

Mr Adediwura said that he would extend a hand of fellowship to the respondent and ensure peace reigns in Ile-Ife.

I have nothing to do than to draw them closer. They are still my brothers and sisters, he said.

The respondent, Abayomi Olubuji, is from Aga Ruling House while Mr Adediwura is from Ajagbusi Ruling House.

(NAN)

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With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

China has world's largest charging infrastructure network

On June 18, Li Chao, spokesperson for China's National Development and Reform Commission, announced that by the end of May 2024, the total number of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in China had reached 9.92 million units, a year-on-year increase of 56%. Among these, public and private charging facilities accounted for 3.05 million and 6.87 million units, respectively, with year-on-year growth rates of 46% and 61%. Thus, China has now established the world's largest, most extensive, and most diverse charging infrastructure network.

Photo credit: Star Charge

CATL invests in IM Motors

According to the Chinese corporate database Tianyanch, IM Motors Technology Co., Ltd. has recently undergone business changes, adding several new shareholders. These include Bank of China Financial Asset Investment Co., Ltd. under the Bank of China, Ningbo Meishan Bonded Port Area Wendin Investment Co., Ltd. under CATL, CPIC, and QingTaoKunShanEnergy Development Group Co., Ltd. Additionally, SAIC Motor and Zhangjiang Hi-Tech, which previously held indirect shares, have now directly acquired portions of the company's shares. Concurrently, the company's registered capital has increased from approximately 10.85 billion yuan to around 13.77 billion yuan.

GAC Group, Guangzhou Industry Investment cement strategic cooperation

On June 18, GAC Group and Guangzhou Industry Investment Holding Group held a signing ceremony to fully deepen their strategic cooperation. In the future, they will further strengthen cooperation in talent development, industrial chain layout, technological innovation, and the green, low-carbon transformation of the automotive industry.

LEEKR Technology bags over 1 billion yuan in Series C financing

On June 19, Chinese intelligent chassis system solution provider LEEKR Technology announced the successful completion of its Series C financing round, raising over 1 billion yuan.

Lynk & Co rolls off 10,000th mass-produced unit of Lynk & Co 07 EM-P model

On June 17, Lynk & Co, the car brand jointly owned by Geely and Volvo Cars, announced that the 10,000th unit of the Lynk 07 EM-P model has officially rolled off the production line.

Z-one Tech rolls off 10,000th-set smart car central brain ZXD1

SAIC Motor's automotive intelligence arm Z-one Tech recently saw the 10,000th set of first-generation central brain, ZXD1, successfully roll off the production line, the company announced on June 18.

BAIC Group, CATL deepen strategic cooperation in battery swap businesses

On June 18, Chinese automaker BAIC Group and battery giant CATL signed an agreement to deepen their strategic cooperation in the new energy sector, aiming to enhance their core competitiveness.

Jaguar Land Rover partners with Chery to develop all-electric Freelander-branded vehicles

On June 19, Jaguar Land Rover announced the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement with Chery. This agreement authorizes Chery Jaguar Land Rover to use the Freelander brand for a new line of all-electric vehicles, which will be based on Chery's electric platform and manufactured at the Chery Jaguar Land Rover plant in Changshu.

Li Auto teams up with CNPC's subsidiary on development of EV charging facilities

On June 18, 2024, CNPC Kunlun Connected Electric Energy Technology Co., Ltd. ("CNPC Kunlun"), a subsidiary of CNPC, and Li Auto signed a cooperation agreement to jointly advance the development and construction of electric vehicle charging infrastructures along highways and within cities across China, according to a post on CNPC Kunlun's WeChat account.

Tesla begins delivering Model 3 Performance version in China

Tesla recently started delivering the Model 3 Performance version to customers in China with a price of 335,900 yuan.

CATL breaks ground on Beijing battery base with BAIC, Xiaomi, Jingneng Group

On June 18th, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Beijing Contemporary Amperex Battery Base project, which is jointly invested by CATL, BAIC Group, Jingneng Group, and Xiaomi Group, took place in Beijing, according to a post on CATL's WeChat account.

Momenta submits overseas IPO application to CSRC for listing in the US

On June 17, according to China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC)'s website, the CSRC has received the overseas listing application materials from the autonomous driving solution developer Momenta Global Limited, submitted via its domestic operating entity, Momenta (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd.
The police in Rivers State, south-south Nigeria, said they have taken over the secretariats of the 23 local councils in the state after deadly clashes erupted on Tuesday following the expiration of the three-year tenure of the council officials on Monday.

Two killed

Two persons, including a police officer, were killed on Tuesday during a clash between two political factions, the police spokesperson in Rivers, Grace Iringe-Koko, said in a statement on Tuesday night.

A case of death was recorded at Eberi-Omuma, Omuma Local Government Area, where a police officer and a vigilante were killed, Ms Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, said in the statement.

To forestall more bloodshed and prevent a further breakdown of law and order, the Police have taken over all the 23 Council Secretariats and some critical government infrastructure in the state. Conventional police officers and anti-riot police officers have been deployed to these facilities, she added.

The spokesperson warned that the police were prepared to deal with troublemakers in the state.

Even though the police did not mention it, the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, controls one of the factions while his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the FCT minister, controls the other.

The two estranged allies have been engaged in a political fight since last year which has battered the state legislature and disrupted governance in the oil-rich state.

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The latest battle, which is also being fought in the courtrooms, is about who controls the local governments which is the third-tier of government in Nigeria.

Angry youths

Angry youths, apparently loyal to the Governor Fubara, poured into the streets on Tuesday and invaded the secretariats to force the chairpersons out of office amidst reports that the local officials had vowed to sit tight despite the state government announcing the end of their tenure and the appointment of interim administrators.

The council chairpersons, all of them loyalists of Mr Wike, claimed that their tenure had been extended by six months by a faction of lawmakers loyal to Mr Wike, a claim which has been invalidated by the ruling of two courts, including a recent one by the Court of Appeal.

READ ALSO: Fubara appoints administrators to take over Rivers local councils

Fubara warns against arrest of supporters

Amidst the chaos, Governor Fubara has warned the police against arresting his supporters.

Let me also say this: Im also aware that there is a grand plan to come and arrest some of our supporters. This time around, you have to pass through me to arrest them because I dont think there is anything that any of those people following us has done. Rather, they are standing on the side of truth, Mr Fubara said on Tuesday before the police took over the local secretariats.

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Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has appointed caretaker committees for the 23 local government areas of Rivers State as he continues his battle with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, for the control of the political structure in the oil-rich state.

The appointment came a day after the governor asked administrative heads to temporarily take charge of council areas from the outgoing elected officials whose tenures ended on Monday.

Many of the outgoing elected officials were elected when Mr Wike was governor and are loyal to him. They have vowed to stay on in office, saying the state House of Assembly had extended their tenure by six months.

In a letter seen by PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Fubara appointed Chijioke Ihunwo, the chairperson of the National Youth Council in the state and vocal critic of Mr Wike as the acting chairperson of Obio/Akpor LGA, where Mr Wike hails from.

The Clerk of the State Assembly, G. M. Gillis-West, has invited the nominees to appear for screening and confirmation by 8 a.m. on Wednesday.

When contacted, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Joseph Johnson, confirmed the latest appointments for PREMIUM TIMES.

READ ALSO: Fubara directs outgoing Rivers council chairpersons to vacate seats immediately

Yes, it is correct, Mr Johnson said in a terse phone interview.

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The latest development comes less than 12 hours after the police announced they were taking control of all the council areas following the violence that caused the death of two people, including a police officer.

More details later.

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The Federal High Court, Abuja, dismissed on Wednesday a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by fleeing Binance Holdings Ltds executive, Nadeem Anjarwalla, against the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Trial judge Inyang Ekwo, in a ruling, dismissed the suit for lack of diligent prosecution.

When the case was called on Wednesday, no lawyer appeared for Mr Anjarwalla and neither was the applicant in court.

In a short ruling, Mr Ekwo noted that a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Tonye Krukrubo, sought a leave to withdraw as Mr Anjarwallas lawyer on 28 March. The judge said the court granted the application.

The judge recalled adjourning the matter until today (Wednesday) for mention, but no lawyer appeared for the applicant.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Anjarwalla, Binances Africa regional manager, had filed a separate rights enforcement suit alongside his colleague, Tigran Gambaryan, against NSA and EFCC seeking an order releasing them from detention.

Mr Anjarwalla escaped from lawful custody on 22 March and fled to Kenya. However, Mr Gambaryan is in court-ordered custody to face ongoing trial on money laundering charges.

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Messrs Anjarwalla and Gambaryan filed their suits before Mr Ekwo.

In the suits marked FHC/ABJ/CS/355/24 and FHC/ABJ/CS/356/24 respectively, the duo sued the NSA office and the EFCC as 1st and 2nd respondents.

They had sought the same prayers.

Messrs Anjarwalla and Gambaryan, a US citizen overseeing financial crime compliance at the crypto exchange platform, in their separate applications, sought a declaration that their detention and seizure of their passports contravened Section 35 (1) and (4) of the Nigerian constitution.

They said the acts they complained about violated their fundamental right to personal liberty as guaranteed by the constitution, among others.

Other Binance executives suit fixed for hearing

Meanwhile, Mr Ekwo fixed 9 July to hear Mr Gambaryans suit.

The judge fixed the date after Mr Krukrubo, who now appears for Mr Gambaryan, moved a motion seeking to amend their originating process.

Although EFCCs lawyer, Olarewanju Adeola, opposed the motion, the judge held that parties, by law, were entitled to amend their processes before judgment.

I am minded to grant this amendment, he said.

However, Mr Gambaryan was fined a N50,000 cost in favour of the EFCC.

Mr Ekwo ordered the applicant to pay the fine before the next hearing date on 9 July. The court is scheduled to hear the preliminary objection to the suit and the substantive matter on that day.

(NAN)

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The Joint Union Congress of the Police Service Commission(PSC) has called on President Bola Timubu to immediately relieve the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, of his position for alleged unethical behaviour and misconduct, which it said could destroy the peace of the country.

It also called on the Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, to publicly apologise to the commission within seven days over his alleged unprofessional, false and misleading press releases to Nigerians on the recent recruitment of police constables.

The union made the call at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday.

We begin with this press conference, with a clarion call on the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to immediately relieve the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, of his appointment as IGP.

Our concern comes from the fact that a public officer who misleads the president is causing confusion in the country and may lead to chaos, which is antithetical to his duty as a police officer, its chairperson, Adoji Adoyi, said.

The union comprises the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigerians (ASCSN) and the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU).

Its demands are coming following the recent rejection by the Force of the just-concluded recruitment of constables.

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After the list of successful candidates was published by the PSC, the police, through a statement by Mr Adejobi on 15 June, announced that the process was tainted by corruption and irregularities.

Consequently, the commission disowned the statement of the police on its official website.

It directed the police to conduct a thorough investigation of the statement made and the processes as it had the power to.

The Police Service Commission wishes to disown the trending press statement in social media on the release of the final shortlist of successful applicants for recruitment into the constable cadre of the Nigeria Police Force.

The Commission is aware that the Force Public Relations Officer, who was quoted to have signed the Press Statement on releasing the final list of successful applicants, has since disowned the statement.

Emphasising the press statement published by the security agency, the commission directs the police to investigate the source of the news as it has the power to.

Recruitment is PSCs responsibility

The Joint Union Congress said it is the constitutional and statutory responsibility of the PSC to recruit qualified Nigerians as police constables in line with the constitution and the PSC (Establishment, etc.) Act of 2001, affirmed by the judgement of the Supreme Court.

It said the allegation of fraud and other unwholesome acts against the commission are untrue and that the media trial embarked upon by the NPF was meant to achieve clandestine motives.

The allegations of fraud and several other unwholesome acts levelled against the Police Service Commission (PSC) and its staff are, to say the least, unfounded, spurious, speculative and most irresponsible, especially by the way the allegations were thrown into the public space, even before official channel of communication for dealing with such a matter was exhaustively explored.

The Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force are both responsible agencies of the Federal Government that should demonstrate integrity to inspire public trust and confidence in the discharge of their respective mandates.

The quick and sinister resort to media trial by the police authorities is a subterranean plot to achieve clandestine motive. We condemn this action because it is most unwarranted, and we urge the general public to frown at it, it said.

Police tried to smuggle over 1,000 candidates into the list

The union alleged that the NPF tried to manipulate credible information in the recruitment processes by smuggling in over 1,000 unqualified candidates into the list.

Let us also emphasise the untruth in the allegation of the Police Force that the final list of successful candidates was loaded with names of non-applicants.

We have been furnished with reliable information indicating that elements within the Police Force attempted to smuggle over 1,000 names into the recruitment list.

This manipulation was a grave breach of the recruitment process and a calculated attempt to undermine the credibility of the entire exercise.

It is also instructive to note that the sequence of events that culminated into the release of the damning Press Release was a calculated attempt to discredit, disorganise and usurp the commissions mandate and its powers, it said.

The union also said shortly after the PSC released the list of successful candidates, the police authorities wrote to the commission to express their objection to the recruitment they were part and parcel of from beginning to end.

This was followed by the removal of the commissions chairman out of clandestine political conspiracy alluding to baseless allegations. The third event in quick succession was the press release that was out to subject Commission to media trial without exhausting the official channels of communication, it said.

The real issue

The Joint Union Congress claimed the police reaction was a tactic to sabotage and divert the attention on its (police) non-preparedness to open schools for the training of successful recruits, despite the availability of funds.

It said, The wild allegation of fraud levelled against the Commission is a deliberate effort to divert attention from the real issues. The Nigeria Police Force seeks to leverage this allegation to divert attention from their non-preparedness to open Police Training Schools for the training of successful recruits despite the availability of funds for the training.

Their unwillingness to deploy funds as appropriated for the training schools is suspicious and should be investigated. As a strategy to cover-up, the Nigeria Police Force has resorted to a wild goose chase and needless war of attrition against the Commission.

We challenge the Nigeria Police Force to immediately come clean and submit itself to accountability and probity as the commission has it on good authority, that the training colleges which are supposed to accommodate the successful candidates are not in good order to receive the candidates for training. An inspection of these facilities will show that they are not fit for human habitation.

The union passed a vote of confidence on its former Chairperson, Solomon Arase, who was removed from office last week.

It described him as a man marked by excellence for his impact in the successful completion of the police constable recruitment of 2022.

PREMIUM TIMES had reported the sack of Mr Arase, a former IGP, and replaced him with Hashimu Argungu, a retired deputy inspector general of police.

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Abia State Government says that there was no confirmed case of cholera in the state, though it recorded 109 cases of stooling and vomiting in six of its 17 local government areas.

Orie Agomoh, a medical doctor and director, Public Health and Disease Control in the state Ministry of Health, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Umuahia.

Ms Agomoh said that the 109 cases of stooling and vomiting suspected to be cholera outbreaks were recorded between January and June.

She noted that two earlier samples collected and tested using Rapid Diagnostic Testing (RDT) showed positive results.

However, a repeated test of the samples sent to the National Reference Laboratory in Abuja, were confirmed negative for cholera.

She said that one case each was recorded in Ohafia and Osisioma local government areas while Arochukwu, Umunneochi, Bende and Ikwuano recorded 42, 39, 17 and nine cases respectively.

The State Ministry of Health emphasises that Abia State has not recorded any confirmed positive case of cholera within the period under review.

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Nevertheless, because of the outbreak reported in some states, the ministry has instituted response measures towards prevention and identification of any suspected case, and appropriate treatment.

As part of the intervention, citizens are advised to continue to observe preventive measures to stay safe, the director said.

The preventive measures she listed included ensuring access to safe drinking water, practicing sanitation, proper hand-washing and maintaining personal hygiene.

Others are handling food safely, washing fruits and vegetables properly before consumption and cooking food properly before eating.

The director warned residents to avoid roadside foods and drinking of untreated water.

She urged citizens to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of cholera while promising further updates where necessary.

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The Anambra State Government has arrested a couple and one other woman for alleged child trafficking in Ifitedunu, Dunukofia Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Chidinma Ikeanyionwu, a media aide to the State Commissioner of Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

The suspects  Ndubuisi Nwankwo and his wife, Temple  were said to have connived with a woman, identified as Ebere, to sell their daughter for N1 million.

The statement did not mention the childs age, but a video clip accompanying the statement showed that the child appeared to be seven years old.

The couple hail from Nkanu in Enugu State but reside in Ifitedunu in Anambra State.

Ebere, the alleged accomplice, hails from Ukpo, another community in the same Dunukofia Local Government Area of the state.

Arrest

Ms Ikeanyionwu said the three suspects were arrested after the Chairperson of Akwa village in the community, Arinzechukwu Azodo, notified the commissioner of the incident.

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The media aide said the suspects were believed to be part of a child trafficking syndicate in the community.

It will interest you to know that some members of the community alleged that Temple is into the trafficking business with her husband Ndubuisi Nwankwo as an accomplice because they have not seen some of her children for a very long time, she said.

The clip, which accompanied the statement, showed the suspects in handcuffs while being interrogated by the commissioner.

Apart from the suspects and their daughter, other people involved in the arrest were present.

Why I raised an alarm

Mr Azodo said he raised the alarm after a vigilante commander informed him that a woman (Ebere) was allegedly engaging in the buying and selling of children in the Ifitedunu community.

The chairperson said he immediately went alongside some vigilante operatives and arrested Ebere at a location in the community where she had visited to finalise an agreement for an alleged child purchase.

He said they discovered that the suspects were on the verge of sealing a N1 million deal to sell the child before they were arrested.

Suspects speak

One of the suspects, Ebere, claimed during interrogation that the mother of the child, Mrs Nwankwo, was the one who informed her that she wanted to sell her male child.

She claimed Mrs Nwankwo told her that she had been selling her children and would return home to tell neighbours that the children had died.

The suspect also claimed she consequently promised to link Mrs Nwankwo to a man who needed a male child because the man could not bear a male child and was finding it difficult to adopt one.

She said the man subsequently agreed to pay N1 million to Mrs Nwankwo for the child but that the sale was delayed because Mrs Nwankwo wanted to be paid before bringing the child.

She added that she was surprised to learn after her arrest that the child which Mrs Nwankwo wanted to sell was female and not male.

But Mrs Nwankwo denied the allegations, claiming it was Ebere that requested to buy the child.

She also claimed that Ebere told her that she needed a child and that she had been carrying a fake pregnancy to deceive her husband due to pressure to bear children.

On his part, Mr Nwankwo, the father of the child, claimed he knew nothing about any plan to sell his child.

He claimed that he had buried two of his children who died at different times in the past.

Asked where he buried the children, Mr Nwankwo claimed he buried them in Enugu, a neighbouring state in the South-east.

He claimed that none of his family members accompanied him in burying the deceased children in Enugu.

Mrs Obinabo said Mr Nwankwo would take officials of the ministry to where he buried his children for exhumation.

But an unidentified vigilante operative suggested that Mr Nwankwos claim of single-handedly burying his deceased children without the involvement of family members was suspicious.

The vigilante operative said their investigations showed the people who were buried by Mr Nwankwo were his grandchildren.

It was at this point that the Honourable Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare Anambra, Hon Obinabo, who was visibly sad over the incident, handed them over to the police for investigation and prosecution, the statement said.

Commissioner reacts

Reacting, Mrs Obinabo reiterated that the Anambra State Government was determined to end trafficking in the state.

The commissioner warned that anyone caught engaging in trafficking will be prosecuted.

She advised residents of the state to always be vigilant and reach out to the ministry whenever they suspect any case of child trafficking around their areas.

Prohibited in Nigeria

Nigeria, in 2015, enacted the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, which outlawed all acts of human trafficking in the country.

The Act prescribes a minimum penalty of between five and ten years imprisonment and a fine of N1 million for the trafficking of children, depending on the purpose of such trafficking.

Several persons have been convicted of child trafficking across the country.

The Kano State High Court, in July 2021, sentenced a man, Paul Owne, to 91 years in prison for kidnapping and trafficking of children in the state for sale in Onitsha, Anambra State.

A Federal High Court in Port-Harcourt, River State, in 2019, sentenced three persons to a combined 12 years imprisonment for trafficking a two-year-old male child and one other child.

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The Nigerian government has announced that it is planning to send the first citizen to space.

The Director General of Nigerias National Space Research and Development Agency, Mathew Adepoju, disclosed this at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Punch Newspaper reports.

Mr Adepoju said the feat is based on a partnership between his agency and the Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA).

This collaboration, which is coming to the country, marks a significant milestone in Nigerias 25th anniversary of Space Exploration journey and opens new opportunities for scientific research and technological advancement.

At the event, Nigerias Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Uche Nnaji, said the partnership will accelerate the nations technological advancements and also inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers, Channels Television reports.

Nigeria has been actively pursuing space exploration since 1999, when it established NASRDA, and has launched five satellites since 2003, with three still in orbit delivering vital services.

The most recent  NigeriaSat-X  was the first to be designed and constructed by NASRDA engineers, and more advanced models are in development.

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The space agency has made extensive and creative use of the satellites, from analysing climate data to improve farming practices to retrieving hostages from Boko Haram. Officials argue this proves space exploration is essential for Nigeria.

Although the date for the space venture was not stated, in 2016, former Minister of Science and Technology, Ogbonnaya Onu, announced that the country would send an astronaut into space by 2030.

Experts said launching an astronaut into orbit represents a greater challenge than Nigerias previous missions, but leading figures from the space industry are optimistic.

The Nigerian space programme has ambitions beyond its borders, and it is hoped that bold statements  such as a manned mission  will inspire stargasers across the continent.

This would be a landmark achievement for Nigeria and Africa, which will encourage the rest of Africa to get involved, CNN quoted Felix Ale, a NASRDA spokesperson to have said.

Nigeria already shares resources from its space assets, such as providing satellite imagery to Mali, and has supported the idea of an African Space Agency.

With an ever-increasing number of African states investing in space programmes, while traditional powerhouses downsize, the continent could be the hotspot of exploration for years to come, according to a CNN projection.

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Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has directed the state auditor general to audit the financial records of the 23 local government councils in the state.

The Auditor-General should immediately commence the audit of the 23 Local Government Councils in the past three years and come up with the result in the next one month, the governor said.

Mr Fubara, a former accountant general of the state, gave the directive while inaugurating the caretaker committees for the 23 local councils in the state on Wednesday, his spokesperson, Chukwudi Nelson, said in a statement sent to PREMIUM TIMES.

It is important that we will know what has happened and how our funds were being used in those 23 Local Government Areas. It is important that it will be a check for those people who are also coming, he said.

Reappointment

Among the 23 outgone council chairpersons, Governor Fubara reappointed Anengi Barasua as the chairperson of Bonny council and Enyiada Cookey-Gam as chairperson of Opobo Nkoro.

Mr Fubara hails from Opobo Nkoro.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the two reappointed officials, apparently in solidarity with Mr Fubara, held Thanksgiving Services to celebrate the end of their tenures.

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The inauguration of the new officials followed their successful screening and confirmation by the Rivers House of Assembly earlier Wednesday morning.

The seven-member committee per local council will take over from the outgone elected officials whose three-year tenure expired on Monday.

Mr Fubara had on Tuesday directed the heads of administration (civil servants) in the councils to man the councils until further directives following the expiration of the tenure of the elected officials.

The directive triggered violence clashes between Mr Fubaras supporters and those of his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, resulting in the death of two persons, including a police officer.

To prevent further breakdown of law and order, the commissioner of police in the state on Tuesday announced the taking over of the 23 council secretariats by the police.

Apparently taking cognisance of the police directives, Mr Fubara, at the ceremony, told the new caretaker committee members that they could operate from anywhere at the moment.

Whatever happened yesterday (Tuesday), I know, and the world knows that it is not from you people. Some persons caused it. So, let us not give them the opportunity to continue to make our state look bad in the comity of states.

So, when you go back, if there is any situation, you should be law-abiding. I dont want any confrontation. You can operate from anywhere for now. But the most important thing is that you have control of the local government today.

I am not of the class to say that because something happened, you should maltreat them. No. Whatever is their entitlement, ensure that they get it, the governor said.

Mr Fubara did not state how long the caretaker committee members would stay but said they have a short time to say before local elections.

The inauguration of the caretaker committee is a key step towards Governor Fubaras plan to take over the political structure at the grassroots from his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the minister of FCT.

List of chairpersons

Governor Fubaras spokesperson, Mr Nelson, gave the list of the newly inaugurated chairpersons for the 23 council areas as follows:

Madigai Dickson  Abua/Odual

Happy Benneth  Ahoada East

Daddy Green  Ahoada West

Otonye Briggs  Akuku-Toru

Reginald Ekaan  Andoni

Orolosoma Amachree  Asari  Toru

Anengi Barasua  Bonny

Anthony Soberekon  Degema

Brain Gokpa  Eleme

David Omereji  Emohua

John Nkugbo  Etche

 Kpeden  Gokana

Darlington Orji  Ikwerre

Marvin Yobana  Khana;

Chijioke Ihunwo  Obio/Akpor;

Princewill Ejekwe  Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni;

Evans Bipi; I.B. Ogan  Okrika;

Promise Reginald  Omuma;

Enyiada Cookey-Gam  Opobo Nkoro

Gogo Philip  Oyigbo

Ichematic Ezebunwo  Port Harcourt City

Mathew Dike  Tai.

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The National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) has confirmed an oil leak from the Nembe Oilfields operated by Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Limited at Nembe in Bayelsa State.

Solomon Ukponevi, head of NOSDRAs field office in Yenagoa, confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Yenagoa.

He said the oil firm reported the incident to the agency on Tuesday.

He explained that the agency had deployed its officials to the spill site to ascertain the cause and volume of crude oil discharged to the environment.

On the extent of the pollution, Mr Ukponevi said the Joint Investigative Visit (JIV) scheduled for Wednesday would determine the area, among other details.

I will not be able to provide details until staff deployed for the JIV return from the fields, but I can tell you that Aiteo has reported the spill, and investigation is underway, he said.

NAN learnt that the leak occurred Monday at a section of the 97-kilometre Nembe Creek Trunk line (NCTL) that fed the Bonny Oil Export Terminal in Rivers.

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Following persistent vandalism on the oil export line with the capacity to evacuate 180,000 barrels of crude daily, Aiteo resorted to using barges to convey crude from the Nembe fields.

The barges transport crude from onshore oil wells to a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel from which Aiteo exports the Nembe Crude blend to crude tankers.

The management of Aiteo has yet to respond to the incident.

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Beijing (Gasgoo)- On June 19, Chinese intelligent chassis system solution provider LEEKR Technology announced the successful completion of its Series C financing round, raising over 1 billion yuan.

Photo credit: LEEKR Technology

This round of financing was jointly led by Hangzhou Fuchunwan New City Development Fund, Saize Capital, Hefei Construction Investment Holding, Hefei Baohe Linghang Fund, Baohe Sci-Tech Innovation Fund, Sealand Innovation, Chery Holdings Ruicheng Fund, Huaying Venture Capital, SRIC, and Shengrui Duxing.

LEEKR Technology focuses on the core areas of new energy vehicles and autonomous driving. Leveraging its comprehensive chassis-by-wire platform development capabilities and application implementation, the company uses advanced brake-by-wire technology as its entry point. LEEKR Technology is the first in China to achieve large-scale production of the integrated intelligent brake system IHB-LK (One-Box) and the fully decoupled hydraulic brake system DHB-LK (Two-Box).

The funds raised in this round will be used to expand LEEKR Technologys production capacity, ensuring the large-scale delivery of the companys chassis-by-wire products to several leading automaker clients. Additionally, the company aims to continue enhancing supply chain efficiency and accelerating its global market expansion.

Previously, on April 6, 2023, LEEKR Technology announced the completion of its Series B equity financing, which raised for the company 400 million yuan.
The detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, is seeking to negotiate with the Nigerian government to drop the treasonable felony charges against him.

Mr Kanu, who is leading a secessionist campaign for the creation of the Biafra Republic from Nigeria, faces trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja over his separatist campaigns.

At the hearing on Wednesday, Mr Kanus lawyer, Alloy Ejimakor, informed the judge, Binta Nyako, that his client was seeking to dialogue with the government to drop the charges.

Referencing section 17 of the Federal High Court Act, Mr Ejimakor said, In any proceeding, the court may promote reconciliation among parties thereto and encourage and facilitate the amicable settlement thereof.

The defence lawyer introduced the issue while moving an application objecting to the courts jurisdiction to try the IPOB leader, who appears in court from the State Security Service (SSS) custody in Abuja. Mr Ejimakor explained that his client would pursue an out-of-court settlement route if the court rejected his application challenging the courts jurisdiction. He said he had discussed the proposition with the prosecuting counsel, Adegboyega Awomolo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). According to the defence lawyer, the prosecutor told him to defer the discussion to a future time. Nigerian govts lawyer reacts In his response, the federal governments prosecuting lawyer, Mr Awomolo, told the court that he lacked the power to negotiate with the defendant on behalf of the government. Mr Awomolo acknowledged that Mr Kanus lawyer earlier communicated his desire to seek an out-of-court settlement regarding the charges.

But he said he did not have the instruction of his client, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), to embark on any negotiation with the defendant over the charges.

He said that, as a lawyer, he was only briefed to prosecute the matter.

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I told him to go to the AGF, who has the power, he said, adding that the AGF and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, was the one with the statutory powers to negotiate on behalf of the Nigerian government.

Judge reacts

Reacting, the trial judge noted that she had no problem with parties exploring an out-of-court settlement if they decided to.

Like Mr Awomolo, the judge urged Mr Kanu to approach the AGF, who is the proper person to negotiate with.

Court affirms jurisdiction to hear charges

In a ruling, Mrs Nyako dismissed a fresh application by Mr Kanu challenging the validity of counts 1,2,3,4,5,8 and 15.

The defendant had argued that the five counts were unconstitutional and that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case because the prosecution failed to indicate the exact locations where Mr Kanu allegedly carried out the offensive broadcast complained of in the charges.

He further argued that the prosecution failed to show in the charges whether the alleged offensive broadcast was a punishable offence in Kenya or Britain, the two places where Mr Kanu had been outside Nigeria before his rearrest in June 2021.

But the judge ruled that she could not overrule herself on issues she had already resolved, adding that the only option for the applicant was to proceed on appeal.

Mrs Nyako ordered the prosecution to file and serve its proof of evidence on the defendant and the defendant to file his defence before the next hearing.

She ordered the defendant and prosecution to identify areas of concurrence in the case and aspects the defence would be objecting.

The judge adjourned the matter until 24 September for further hearing.

Kanu accuses SSS of contempt, judge reacts

Mr Ejimakor, earlier on Wednesday, informed the court that he had initiated a contempt proceeding by filing Form 49 seeking the jailing of the director general of the SSS for alleged disobedience to court orders.

He said the SSS disobeyed the courts orders directing that Mr Kanu should be granted full, unhindered access to his lawyers. Mr Ejiamakor said the SSS still bugged the legal teams meetings with Mr Kanu.

He added that the SSS had refused to provide Mr Kanu with a safe room to meet with his lawyers as directed by the court.

Mr Ejimakor expressed concern that the room the SSS provided for such purposes is bugged.

Reacting to the issue of the Form 49 application filed by Mr Kanu, the judge said the filing had yet to reach her file.

However, the judge ordered the SSS to provide an un-bugged space for the defendants meetings with his legal team.

She said the un-bugged space could be a garden within the SSS premises where Mr Kanu and his lawyers could discuss without any interference by the SSS operatives.

Background

Mr Kanu, a dual citizen of Nigeria and the United Kingdom, faces treasonable charges resulting from his separatist campaigns using his IPOB platform for the secession of the states in South-east Nigeria and parts of neighbouring states as an independent Biafra nation.

The separatist leader was arrested in Lagos in October 2015 when he arrived in Nigeria from the UK. He was granted bail in 2017 and fled Nigeria after soldiers invaded his home in Afara-Ukwu, near Umuahia, Anambra State.

In June 2021, the Nigerian government arrested in Kenya and forcibly returned him to Nigeria. Since then, he has remained in SSS custody.

In April 2022, the trial court partially struck out 8 out of the 15 counts that the federal government filed against him.

He appealed to the Court of Appeal in Abuja, requesting the court dismiss the rest of the charges.

On 13 October 2022, the Court of Appeal, granting Mr Kanus request, dismissed the remaining terrorism and treasonable felony charges.

But the Nigerian government appealed against the Court of Appeals decision.

Ruling on the appeal, the Supreme Court ordered in December 2023 that his trial should continue at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

On several occasions, the court rejected Mr Kanus bail request since his repatriation from Kenya.

(NAN)

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The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an investigation into the recent killing of a police officer and a vigilante member in Rivers State.

The Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that two persons, including a police officer and a vigilante member, were killed on Tuesday during deadly clashes between two political factions in the south-south state.

One faction is loyal to the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, while the other is backed by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the FCT Minister.

The clashes erupted following the expiration of the three-year tenure of officials of local government councils in the state on Monday.

The clashes began when angry youths, apparently loyal to Governor Fubara, poured into the streets on Tuesday and invaded the secretariats to force the chairpersons out of office amidst reports that the local officials had vowed to sit tight despite the state government announcing the end of their tenure and the appointment of interim administrators.

The council chairpersons, all of them loyalists of Mr Wike, claimed that their tenure had been extended by six months by a faction of lawmakers loyal to Mr Wike, a claim which has been invalidated by the ruling of two courts, including a recent one by the Court of Appeal.

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Meanwhile, the police in Rivers State announced on Tuesday that they had taken over all the 23 council Secretariats and some critical government infrastructure in the state to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Outbreak of violence

Mr Adejobi, an assistant commissioner of police, said in the Wednesday statement that the IGP has condemned the outbreak of violence and subsequent breakdown of law in the council areas of the state.

The Force spokesperson expressed regret that the unfortunate incident resulted in the death of the two security operatives.

He identified the deceased operatives as David Mgbada, an inspector and Samuel Nwigwe, a vigilante member at Eberi-Omuma in the Omuma Council area of the state.

Investigation

Mr Adejobi said, in response to the development, the IGP has ordered the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olatunji Disu, to strengthen security in the state and thoroughly investigate the killing of the security operatives.

The Force spokesperson said the IGP also asked the police commissioner to investigate the violence that erupted in the state on Tuesday.

The IGP has specifically deployed operatives of the Force Intelligence Response Team to assist the Rivers State Command in apprehending the killers of the police officer and the vigilante member, he said.

He said Mr Egbetokun has asked the Rivers police commissioner to begin increased patrols, strategic deployment of officers, and enhanced intelligence operations to prevent further violence and ensure safety of all residents.

No more attacks on security operatives

Mr Adejobi said that the IGP has warned individuals and groups attacking and killing security operatives across Nigeria to stop immediately or face prosecution.

The IGP extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased police officer and the vigilante member noting that their dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty will not be taken for granted, he stated.

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An Ado-Ekiti High Court presided by Justice J.O. Adeyeye on Wednesday sentenced one Ojo Ayegbusi to life imprisonment for the rape of a 15-year-old minor.

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Julius Ajibare, in his submissions, said the convict, who faced a lone count charge of rape, perpetrated the act when the victim was returning from school.

She was accosted by the convict, who lured her into his room and had carnal knowledge of her.

The girl could not tell anybody of her nasty experience but her father found out when the girl collapsed at home and blood was gushing out of her private part.

She was, however, rushed to the hospital while the convict was arrested and charged to court.

The offence of rape is contrary to section 31 (2) of the Childs Rights Law, Cap.C7, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012.

The prosecutor called five witnesses and tendered three exhibits in support of his case.

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The convict, who spoke through his counsel, E O. Sunmonu, gave evidence in his defence and called one additional witness.

The court delivered judgement and held that the prosecution proved the offence of rape against the defendant beyond reasonable doubt.

The court consequently convicted the defendant and sentenced him to life imprisonment.

(NAN)

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The Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, refused to grant bail to Abba Kyari, a suspended deputy commissioner of police, and four other police officers facing drug trafficking charges.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other defendants charged in the case marked FHC/ABJ/57/2022 are four members of the disbanded Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT)  Sunday J. Ubia, Bawa James, Simon Agirigba and John Nuhu.

Trial judge Emeka Nwite, in a ruling, held that the defendants had not placed sufficient materials before the court to warrant granting the request.

Mr Nwite said that granting bail to a defendant was at the discretion of the court, which must be exercised judicially and judiciously.

NAN reports that the suspended Mr Kyari was detained following his arrest on 14 February 2022 by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for alleged involvement in a cocaine deal.

Mr Kyari and four suspended officers were arraigned on 7 March 2022.

Two suspected drug traffickers, Chibunna Umeibe and Emeka Ezenwanne, who were arrested at Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, were also charged.

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While Mr Kyari and the IRT members pleaded not guilty, Messrs Umeibe and Ezenwanne pleaded guilty and were convicted.

Meanwhile, in May, the court granted Mr Kyari, who is standing trial from detention, temporary bail for two weeks to attend his mothers final burial rites.

The court granted him bail in the sum of N50 million with two sureties in like sum.

Fresh bail application

But in his fresh bail application, Mr Kyari said he had spent two years in pre-trial detention by 7 March, far more than one year which the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015 deemed as exceptional circumstances even for a person charged with a capital offence.

Citing section 161(2)(b) and (c) of ACJA, Mr Kyari, through his lawyer, argued that this development was a core consideration for the exercise of the courts discretion to either grant or refuse bail.

He also argued that the facts and circumstances stated in the earlier rulings of the court necessitating the refusal of his bail applications no longer existed, as 15 out of 16 of the prosecution witnesses had already testified. He cited section 124(1)(b) of the Evidence Act, 2011.

He further argued that his continued detention violated his fundamental human rights.

Ruling

Ruling on the bail application, Mr Nwite said the law empowered a judge to exercise discretion to meet each cases merit and justice.

The judge said factors a judge had to consider in exercising discretion included ensuring that the defendant would always attend the trial and would not jump bail.

He added that the judge must also be sure that the defendant was not able to interfere with investigations or tamper with prosecution witnesses.

Mr Nwite added that the court must be satisfied that the defendant would not undermine the administration of criminal justice and would not threaten societys well-being by committing similar or other offences.

The question begging for an answer at this juncture is, having addressed these issues in the court rulings of 28 March 2022 and 30 August 2022, what has changed to distort my findings in the two rulings? he asked.

The judge noted Mr Kyari stated in his affidavit that the trial had lasted for two years and that the prosecution had called 15 out of its 16 witnesses.

However, the judge said that section 161 (2)(b)(c) cited by the applicant, only talked about offences publishable with the death penalty.

He said juxtaposing the referenced section with section 35(1) of the Nigerian constitution would show there was no breach of the provisions of said section 161(2)(b)(c) of ACJA.

Section 35(1) (of the constitution) stated that a person who is charged with an offence and has been detained in lawful custody and awaiting trial shall not continue to be kept in such detention for a period higher than the maximum period of imprisonment.

It is not in dispute that the offence which the 1st defendant/applicant is charged carried a maximum punishment of 25 years, the judge noted.

According to him, the one year stipulated in section 161(2)(b) and (c) of ACJA, 2015 is of no moment given the provision of section 35(1) of the Nigerian constitution.

The judge said the constitution is supreme, and its provisions are binding on all authorities and persons.

Mr Nwite, therefore, held that, having addressed the issues in his earlier rulings, he believed that nothing had changed to distort his findings.

The judge, who refused the bail application for Mr Kyari and other suspended police officers, sustained his earlier order on accelerated hearing.

In a ruling the judge delivered on 22 March 2023, the court dismissed an application by Mr Kyari challenging the validity of the charges.

Charges

NDLEA prosecutors accused Mr Kyari and the four suspended IRT members of dealing in 21.35kg of cocaine between 19 and 25 January 2022, thereby committing an offence contrary to and punishable under section 11(c) of the NDLEA Act.

In one of the charges, the anti-narcotic agency alleged that Mr Kyari and the four IRT operatives tampered with 21.35kg of cocaine by removing 17.55 kg of it and substituting same with some other substance.

The offence is contrary to and punishable under section 14(b) of the NDLEA Act.

The prosecutors also accused Mr Kyari, in a count which features only him as the sole defendant, of attempting to obstruct the NDLEA and its authorised officers by offering $61,400 to a senior anti-narcotics operative as an inducement to prevent the testing of the 17.55kg of cocaine.

In three of the counts, Messrs Umeibe and Ezenwanne were accused of importing 21.35kg of cocaine into Nigeria via the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, Enugu State, on 19 January 2022.

(NAN)

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The leadership of the Edo chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday announced the expulsion of former deputy governor Philip Shaibu, from the party.

The PDP also expelled the National Vice Chairperson (South-South) of the party, Dan Orbih.

Both men have been accused of anti-party activities, according to the PDP.

This is contained in a statement issued in Benin by the partys spokesperson in Edo, Ogie Vasco.

Mr Vasco said Omorgie Ihama, a former member of the House of Representatives, who represented Oredo Federal Constituency, has also been expelled for anti-party activities.

The PDP spokesperson said the decision was taken on Wednesday at a meeting attended by nine members of the PDP State Working Committee (SWC) at the party secretariat.

The SWC has extensively deliberated on the issue and resolved to expel, with immediate effect, Chief Dan Orbih, National Vice Chairman South South.

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It also decided to expel Phillip Shaibu and upheld the expulsion of Ogbeide-Ihama from Ward 2, Oredo Local Government Area, he said.

Reacting, Mr Orbih told reporters that the SWC had no powers to suspend a member of the National Working Committee or expel anybody without following the provision of the partys constitution.

When a group of persons sits down to make pronouncements that are unconstitutional, it only shows that they are ignorant of the constitution of the party.

That is all I have to say about that and nothing more, Mr Orbih told reporters.

The former deputy governor, Mr Shaibu, was impeached about two months ago by the Edo House of Assembly which accused him of perjury, even though the main reason for the removal was to prevent him from continuing with his governorship ambition which Governor Godwin Obaseki was against.

Mr Shaibu recently declared support for Monday Okpebholo, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, in the 21 September governorship election in the state.

(NAN)

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On11 June at about 5 p.m., I was at my friend, Professor Femi Onabajos office to listen to Al Jazeera, as well as charge my phone, before returning to my apartment in Abeokuta for the usual dark nights and, of late, no water. There was no water, not because the Ogun State government or the local government authority responsible for my place of abode had a temporary delivery problem. The two levels of governance eagerly collect taxes, share federal allocations meant to care for all of us, but never provide one of the reasons why people pay taxes and revenues are shared in other climes.

As a kid, I joined my parents in dancing all over the streets when the self-government authorities provided pipe borne water and electricity in Ijebu-Ode, where I grew up. But all that has become history, at least in Lagos, Abeokuta and Ijebu-Ode  places I am familiar with. State and local government authorities do not provide water anymore. Hence, there is a cholera outbreak with many deaths in a Nigerian state claiming to be the seventh richest political space, when compared with countries in Africa.

It is very fortunate to have a very good friend, retired Justice S. Abidoye Olugbemi, who insisted that I must have electricity in Abeokuta. I decided not to bring my stand-by generator from Lagos or buy another one. He went ahead to lend me his stand-by generator. I had concluded against setting up another personal mini-local government in Abeokuta, as I run in Lagos. There, I supply my water, since no one in most areas of Lagos receive water supply from any central arrangement, as was once the case. With an inverter and a generator fuelled by impossibly expensive diesel fuel, in comparison with Nigerian earnings, I meet my energy needs, in Lagos. In Abeokuta, the borrowed petrol fuelled generator has never been easy for me to manipulate, so I hardly use it. On rare occasions, I call on a friend to come over and help crank the generator to save my food stuffs.

Professor Onabajo and I have come a long way. We did not just meet at Chrisland University, where he serves as the Head of the Mass Communication Department, as I do the same for Political Science. We both were two of the many Nigerians who were dribbled by our own fake Maradona, aka Evil Genius, who asked Nigerians if they wanted the IMF loan with its conditionalities or not. With me serving as a Consultant to the Nigerian Television Authority, Channel 7 at Tejuosho, Femi Onabajo, and other staff members of media houses, criss-crossed the heights, valleys, rivers and swamps that made up the entire Lagos State. We sought the views of the people of Lagos State as others did in other states and local governments to give the accurate expression of the will of Nigerians.

The people overwhelmingly rejected the IMF loan and its conditionalities. I compiled the report of our consultations, which was in line with responses from all over Nigeria. However, Maradona, like our so-called traditional rulers of yore, under indirect rule, knew he could not go against the IMF as his people wanted. He knew he came to power by supplanting Buhari/Idiagbon in a coup that received the support of MKO Abiola, then arguably the richest African, alongside external support. It was in their interests to execute the will of the IMF that had insisted on the devaluation of the national currency, with N1 then being equivalent to $1, which Generals Buhari and Idiagbon had resisted, and instead chose trade by barter, having been blacklisted by the West. So, supported by Chief Olu Falae and others, Maradona deceived us that we were going to have home-grown answers to our economic problems. He devalued the naira, even more than the initial demands of the IMF without the soft loans. We all acquiesced, for want of a better word. As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, his will held sway. Many of our people, especially from the academia, joined the gravy train that he laid out. Those of us who countered him either got driven into exile or rendered irrelevant, as Nigeria continued its ignominious decline.

As I was glued to the television on the latest situation in Gaza and whatever else, Ms Taiwo Gbadegesin, Professor Onabajos assistant, came in at the end of the work day at Chrisland University, Abeokuta, and wished us a great holiday on the following day. We were shocked, asking which holiday again, since the Eid holidays would come in the following week. She quipped that it would be 12 June. Oh!, we responded in unison. I pondered on the fact that it would be another day in the list of Nigerias governance deceptions.

Another deception is that of celebrating independence day, as we pretend to be independent in a world of Western indirect rule and control over much, if not all, of Africa through the Bretton Woods institutions. How can a country be sovereign in a world in which you cannot feed your people? Of course, we collect visa fees at border posts but our value has declined radically over time, as the external environment dictated. Recently and precisely a year ago, it was announced by a president, who in 2012 had boldly written clearly against the economic policy plans of the then President Goodluck Jonathan, who was then forced to abort the so-called fuel subsidy removal (another thieving design), as well as allowing the naira to find its level under the grand deception of market forces, that we have been brainwashed into believing it is a natural law of human existence.

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In Nigeria, Democracy Day, formerly designated as 29 May, and now 12 June, has been officially set aside to remember and celebrate the return to civilian rule. However, the level of commitment to true democratic principles in the last 25 years raises a lot of doubts. This is why many, including myself, have continued to maintain that, saying Nigeria is democratic on the grounds of the holding of elections, normally, characterised by shambolic periodic voting, is a major deception. As such, any day set aside to celebrate this deception of grandeur, is nothing but a Deception Day.

I have taken this position, being aware of the usual widespread soft-spots that make some Nigerians quip that Nigerias democracy is a work in progress, in spite of the disillusionment with the political system and the persistent challenges undermining the possibility of democratic governance in Nigeria.

More importantly, it is wrong to continue to celebrate the mediocrity of a system from a very limited conception of democracy that runs only with the minimalist election component with respect to government by the people, ignoring the two other components of government of the people and for the people. In this respect, I align with Prof. A. Bolaji Akinyemi, as reported in a very recent piece in the Leadership newspaper, to the effect that what we have is civil rule and not truly a democracy. He showed the failure of our system to deliver so much to ensure better life for Nigerians. He paid dues in the struggles against General Abacha like I also did in a smaller way but outside the formal structures they used.

Even if we try to overlook much and pretend to have a government of the people, in which those who govern are from among us, by refusing to see the controllers of our agbero leaders who are really in the service of the real drivers but able to pilfer a reasonable portion of national patrimony and store in Panama, Paradise, Pandora, etc., papers, there is no way in which we can usefully define democracy without a focus on what the concept was/is to achieve, i.e., the for the people aspect.

The most crucial strive for democracy is towards what I refer to as utmost freedom, an ambitious but a pursuable process, with the right approach to governance, including leadership, reduction of corruption and improvements on the rule of law. Utmost Freedom in itself is the summation of the rights from and the rights to, which are inherent in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We cannot be democratic if freedom from asphyxiation from failed environmental policies, freedom from thirst and hunger, at the minimalist options are not guaranteed. Along this priority line is also the right to life as the State would normally be expected to guarantee freedom from unlawful killings, whether by kidnappers, bandits and/or terrorists. These four which deal directly with existential realities have superiority over other necessary ones like freedoms of association, thoughts, speech, voting, and religion.

How do we continue in the deceptive celebration of a journey characterised by 2 steps forward and 4 steps backward? Do Nigerians truly have hope and aspirations for a government that respects their rights, promotes transparency, and ensures equitable development? It is very unfortunate that we keep telling younger Nigerians of how better it once was for us as a country. Japa syndrome became important because many of our youths, especially from the southern portions of Nigeria, could no longer see any hope or inspiration for a better Nigeria and are voting with their feet.

Based on recent official household survey data from Nigerias National Bureau of Statistics, 30.9 percent of Nigerians lived below the international extreme poverty line of $2.15 per person per day (2017 PPP) in 2018/19; just before the COVID-19 crisis. The situation today can only be worse when we factor the impact of the devaluation in the last one year on costs of the production of foods, including transportation, procurement of medicine and many other manufactured needs. We need not go on and on with respect to qualities of the provision of health and education, unemployment and underemployment, etc.

Herein lies the huge disconnect between the annual ritual of celebrating democracy amidst very unpleasant and harsh realities facing ordinary Nigerians. In spite of the pretentious honour of democracy day by commemorating sham elections, the impact of persistent autocratic practices, including by a corrupt system at different arms and levels of governance, as well as sectors of society, resultant socio-economic inequities, and pains in living continue to bite hard and harder.

Democracy is a governance structural arrangement to guarantee the good life for people in their environment on earth. It is not like religion where benefits and gratification are delayed until existence in a presumed heavenly space. Democracy is for improved lives and living on earth. It is a conception that is superior to the current deceptive fixation on elections irrespective of performance failures of those who put themselves forward as leaders, on accountabilities on many other freedoms that are crucial for human existence.

The performances of elected office-holders on all crucial freedoms are very important. Whether elected leaders fail on other important freedoms beyond the freedom to vote should be of great concern. Democracy should be a preferred structural arrangement for the strive towards the many crucial freedoms for human existence that are put together as utmost freedom.

Babafemi A. Badejo, the author of a best-seller on politics in Kenya, was a former deputy special representative of the UN Secretary-General for Somalia, and currently a legal practitioner and professor of Political Science and International Relations at Chrisland University, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

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The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has expressed delight over community effort to establish a new Islamic centre in his Bako Ward of Yola South local government area in Adamawa State.

Speaking after touring the complex, which consists of a mosque, Islamic learning centre and other facilities, Mr Ribadu commended members of the community and other philanthropists who worked for the realisation of the project.

He called for more effort and financial support to enable completion of the complex which has reached 80 percent completion stage.

Mr Ribadu admonished members of the community to use the complex, when completed, as a rallying point for residents of the area and to advance learning especially among the youths.

We complain a lot about eroding values. A lot of it is because we have abandoned proper learning and inculcating morals in our young ones. I hope this place will help address that, he said.

The NSA pledged to support the project to meet the aspiration of the community.

A community leader and member of the mosque project committee, Ahmadu Baminda, said community members used ths opportunity of the NSAs visit for the holiday to show him around the project and to seek his support towards its completion.

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We appreciate all you are doing as an illustrious member of this community. We hope that you will help us to see that this dream of our community to have a befitting Islamic centre is realised in good time, Mr Baminda said.

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Florence Saraki, the mother of former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has died.

Mr Saraki, in a post on his official Facebook page, said she died on Tuesday at the age of 88.

With profound sadness and total submission to the will of Almighty God, I announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and matriarch, Chief Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki, who peacefully transitioned today, Tuesday, June 18th, 2024, Mr Saraki wrote.

The late Mrs Saraki was from the Ibidapo family in Owo, Ondo State. She was survived by four children: Bukola Saraki, Gbemisola Saraki, a former senator and Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development; Temitope Edu, a legal practitioner and businesswoman; and Laolu Saraki, who served as a Special Assistant to the late President Umaru Musa YarAdua.

The Saraki family expressed gratitude for the love, prayers, and support they have received during this difficult time as they declared that details regarding funeral arrangements will be shared in due course.

According to a statement on Wednesday, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has condoled with the Saraki family on the death of their matriarch.

The statement by the governors Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, noted that the governor particularly commiserated with the former Senate President and the rest of the family on the sad development.

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The governor urges the family to be consoled by the fine legacies of their matriarch.

He prayed to God for the repose of her soul and to uphold the family, it stated.

The Saraki family has played a prominent role in the politics and governance of Kwara State for five decades.

READ ALSO: Saraki hails Supreme Court verdict in alleged fraud case

The patriarch of the family, Olusola Saraki (1933-2012), was the Senate Leader in the first assembly of the Second Republic (1979-83) and ran for president in the short-lived Third Republic and in the transition process that led to the Fourth Republic, while his first son, Bukola, was a two-term governor of Kwara State.

Gbemisola Saraki served for 12 years in the National Assembly, including as a senator for four years, before running unsuccessfully to succeed her brother as governor in 2011.

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Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has said that there is no provision in the 1999 Nigerian Constitution for tenure elongation for elected local council chairpersons.

Mr Fubara made this known while addressing reporters on Tuesday at the end of a meeting with heads of security agencies in Port Harcourt.

The governor said the security meeting was called because of the threat to the peace of the state over the tenure expiration of the outgone officials of the local councils.

We will fearlessly lead the way to ensure peace continues to prevail in the state while protecting all patriotic supporters for their stand on the path of truth.

The law on local government tenure is unambiguous. The court clearly affirmed the position of the law.

The law is the law, there is no extension of the local government tenure in it. The court says so, Mr Fubara said.

The governor promised to protect his supporters and resist any grand plan to arrest them.

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He thanked the media and the peace-loving people of the state for their support and urged everyone to remain law-abiding for the unity and progress of the state.

Leadership changes at local councils

Mr Fubara, on Tuesday, directed heads of administration in the 23 local government areas to take over from the elected council chairpersons whose three-year tenure expired on Monday.

The governor on Wednesday (today) appointed caretaker committees to run the local councils.

Meanwhile, the police in Rivers announced on Tuesday night that they have taken over the 23 council secretariats in the state after a deadly clash led to the killing of two persons, including a police officer.

A case of death was recorded at Eberi-Omuma, Omuma Local Government Area, where a police officer and a vigilante were killed, the police spokesperson in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko, said in a statement.

To forestall more bloodshed and prevent a further breakdown of law and order, the police have taken over all the 23 council secretariats and some critical government infrastructure in the state. Conventional police officers and anti-riot police officers have been deployed to these facilities, Ms Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, said in the statement.

The police said they were prepared to deal with troublemakers in the state.

The political crisis in Rivers is caused by a lingering feud between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the FCT minister.

The two estranged allies have been engaged in a political fight since last year, which has battered the state legislature and disrupted governance in the oil-rich state.

The latest battle, which is also being fought in the courtrooms, is about who controls the local government, which is the third tier of government in Nigeria.

Protests

Angry youths, apparently loyal to Governor Fubara, poured into the streets on Tuesday and invaded the secretariats to force the chairpersons out of office amidst reports that the local officials had vowed to sit tight despite the state government announcing the end of their tenure and the appointment of interim administrators.

The council chairpersons, all of them loyalists of Mr Wike, claimed that their tenure had been extended by six months by a faction of lawmakers loyal to Mr Wike, a claim which has been invalidated by the ruling of two courts, including a recent one by the Court of Appeal.

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The federal government has indicated its plans to list the annual Ojude Oba as one of the festivals backed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

The Minister of Culture, Arts and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, said this on Tuesday at the 2024 edition of the festival at Awujales pavilion, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, South-west Nigeria.

The festival, held annually on the third day of Eied-el-Kabir, has its theme, Ojude Oba: Unity and Harmony, Our Gift.

The minister, represented by the Director of Cultural Agencies and Heritage, Ben Ugo Anama, noted that the annual festival was in tune with President Bola Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda.

She said the ministrys mandate was to generate over $100 billion in revenue from tourism by 2030.

The minister described the annual festival as a platform for fostering the unity of the country and one of the countrys tourism potentialities.

Ms Musa-Musawa said Nigeria could tap into it to diversify the economy from oil and generate more resources.

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She noted that in line with President Tinubus Renewed Hope Agenda, the ministry would always collaborate with stakeholders to promote, preserve and protect the rich cultural heritage of our nation.

The minister added that the ministry would ensure it reached its enviable height according to the vision for the ministry tagged Destination 2030.

This vision considers the potentialities in arts, culture and creative economy in terms of its ability to create economic expansion.

Our ambitious goals are predicated on this drive, which is capable of yielding billions and increasing the Gross Domestic Product by the year 2030, she said.

She said that the Presidential Renewed Hope Agenda, especially for the ministry, demonstrated unwavering commitment to diversify the economy and move away from the countrys over-dependence on oil revenue.

Ms Musa-Musawa rejoiced with the sons and daughters of Ijebuland over the success of the festival and the good image it had given the country over the years.

She said that she had observed that the festival had yet to receive any elements of UNESCO approval as one of its approved festivals.

The minister said the international body should list the status of a festival like Ojude Oba, which has a profound impact on the tourism sector.

She vowed to activate all the processes to complete this without further delay.

Ogun governor speaks

Also speaking at the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State hailed Ojude Oba, describing it as a festival that had given Ijebuland and the people of Ogun State a distinct identity.

Mr Abiodun said that the festival had also become a catalyst for developing Ijebuland, underscoring the essence of preserving the rich cultural heritage.

While rejoicing with the sons and daughters of Ijebuland over this years celebration, the governor promised to partner with the federal government to develop the festival and make it a global tourist attraction and destination.

He added that the celebration theme was apt, as unity and harmony remained the bedrock of any thriving society.

He called for a more united force to lift the country out of its present woes.

NAN reports that the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the chief host of the event, was also on the seat to receive over 100 age grade groups of males and females (Regberegbes), decked in attractive and impressive attire.

They came around to pay annual homage to the traditional ruler.

The horse riders from the warrior families in Ijebuland were also on hand to thrill the fun seekers to various acrobatic displays with their horses.

(NAN)

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Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On June 18th, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Beijing Contemporary Amperex Battery Base project, which is jointly invested by CATL, BAIC Group, Jingneng Group, and Xiaomi Group, took place in Beijing, according to a post on CATL's WeChat account.

Photo credit: CATL

The Beijing Contemporary Amperex Battery Base project is designed to high standards as a "Lighthouse Factory" and a "Zero-Carbon Factory," utilizing CATL's most advanced high-speed, highly automated, and flexible production lines. Once completed, it will provide stable, mass-produced, high-quality battery products to automobile clients in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, including BAIC Group, Xiaomi, and Li Auto, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of their new energy vehicle products.

Additionally, CATL aims to bring more upstream and downstream enterprises in the industry chain to the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, enhancing the overall competitiveness of the new energy vehicle supply chain ecosystem and contributing to local economic development.

In the future, CATL will continue to use leading technologies, products, and solutions to collaborate with Beijing in promoting the electrification of transportation and the construction of electric vehicle charging and battery swapping infrastructure. Together with BAIC Group, Jingneng Group, and Xiaomi Group, CATL will create a series of green, low-carbon, high-quality development "Beijing models," contributing to the creation of a globally competitive new energy industry cluster.

Since 2003, BAIC Group has been involved in the new energy vehicle industry, covering all aspects of R&D, production, and service. BAIC Group said, in collaboration with CATL, Jingneng Group, and Xiaomi Group, it will fully support the development of the Beijing Contemporary Amperex Battery Base, working with partners to create an efficient, symbiotic, and collaborative ecosystem. This will contribute to the green and healthy development of Beijing's economy and add value to the development of the new energy vehicle industry and new productive forces in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region.
Ogun State Government has directed school heads to ensure good health and safety of all learners and staff to prevent the spread of cholera within the school communities.

The state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abayomi Arigbabu, gave the directive in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Wednesday.

Mr Arigbabu noted that preventive measures had been put in place to control the spread of the disease in schools in the state, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

According to him, the measures take effect from Wednesday, as schools resume from the mid-term break and the Eid el-kabir holiday.

He listed some of the measures to include comprehensive health talks on cholera prevention, information on symptoms, transmission routes, proper hand hygiene and safe drinking water practices.

Other measures, he added, are to ensure availability of clean water and soap for hand washing in school premises, encourage regular hand washing, especially before eating and after using the restroom.

He also directed school heads to promote the use of hand sanitisers with at least 60 per cent alcohol content as support to hand washing.

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There should also be regular inspection and maintenance of water sources within school premises to ensure they are safe for drinking, the commissioner also directed.

Monitor closely the food vendors and ensure that they collect letters from health facilities, certifying their fitness for the job, he added.

Mr Arigbabu explained that there would be Designate Health Officers in schools to monitor learners and staff for any symptoms of cholera.

He also directed school heads to report any suspected cases immediately to the nearest health centre and to the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

By adhering strictly to these preventive measures and maintaining a high level of vigilance, we can collectively safeguard our health and wellbeing during this critical period, he added.

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Beijing (Gasgoo)- On June 18, Chinese automaker BAIC Group and battery giant CATL signed an agreement to deepen their strategic cooperation in the new energy sector, aiming to enhance their core competitiveness.

Photo credit: BAIC Group

In the field of next-generation intelligent chassis, both parties will collaborate on the next-generation CIIC skateboard chassis platform. This cooperation will involve comprehensive research on chassis architecture, systems, processes, cost, and performance balance, integrating scenario-defined vehicles with intelligent and personalized product development.

In the battery swapping sector, BAIC Group has significant advantages in new energy vehicle development, especially in battery swapping models and market expansion. With extensive experience in battery swapping taxis and ride-hailing vehicles, the automaker has made significant strides. Since CATL launched its Choco-SEB battery swapping service brand, it has promoted standardization in the battery swapping industry through continuous technological and business model innovations.

Leveraging their respective strengths, BAIC Group, CATL, and CATL's wholly-owned subsidiary Contemporary Amperex Energy Service Technology Ltd. will collaborate on the development and circulation of battery swap models and battery blocks, battery-related data management, and regional cooperation on battery swapping stations. The companies will also work together on heavy-duty truck battery swapping business models, including vehicle development, sales, battery sales, leasing, and energy services.
MISSION, Kan., June 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- (Family Features) Break out the red, white and blue and (safely) set off your favorite fireworks  it's time to honor America's birthday. Along with all the booms and blasts, make sure your crowd is satisfied with one of the country's most beloved snack foods and a true firecracker in the kitchen: popcorn.

Peanut Butter Cups Cinnamon Candy Poppers

Celebrated for its seed-to-snack simplicity, popcorn's smell, taste and versatility mean it can enhance any occasion as a budget-friendly solution for family gatherings. As a timeless treat nationwide, it's an especially perfect partner for Fourth of July get-togethers as it bursts while cooking and brings a thrill to the senses.

Whether your gathering will take place poolside, in air-conditioned comfort or while watching spectacular fireworks shows among the backdrop of the night sky, tasty treats that honor the occasion allow you to show off your patriotic pride.

These Peanut Butter Cups are an ideal summer snack that's easy to prepare with everyday ingredients. All you need to do is melt together peanut butter, butter and marshmallows then mix in popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts and raisins. Bake in individual paper liners for grab-and-go convenience then share with your nearest and dearest. For added flair, use American flag-themed liners or finish your creation with toothpicks connected to miniature American flags.

Add a touch of heat to this year's celebrations with Cinnamon Candy Poppers that bring a real bang to the snack table. Inspired by those classic firecrackers that a Fourth of July party can't go without, these balls of ooey-gooey goodness provide a truly patriotic spark.

Find more popcorn-inspired snacks for your summer celebrations at Popcorn.org.

Peanut Butter Cups

Yield: 24 cups

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/2 cup butter or margarine

1 package (10 1/2 ounces) miniature marshmallows

6 cups freshly popped popcorn

6 cups spoon-size shredded wheat

1 cup dry roasted peanuts

1 cup raisins

Preheat oven to 250 F.

In microwave on high heat using large, microwavable bowl, melt peanut butter and butter 1 minute.

Add marshmallows and microwave on high 1 minute, or until marshmallows puff; stir.

Add popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts and raisins; stir gently.

Place paper liners in two 12-cup muffin pans. Divide mixture into 24 cups.

Bake 10 minutes.

Remove from oven and tore "cups" in airtight container.

Cinnamon Candy Poppers

Yield: 24 balls

Nonstick cooking spray

3 quarts popped popcorn

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine

3 cups miniature marshmallows

1/2 cup cinnamon-flavored candies

red and blue confection stars

red licorice string

Spread large sheet of plastic wrap on work surface and spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray and place popcorn inside.

In medium saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in marshmallows until melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over popcorn. Add cinnamon candies and mix well until coated.

Spray hands with nonstick cooking spray and form mixture into 24 balls. Gently press red and blue stars onto each ball. Place piece of licorice string on top of each ball.

Michael French

[email protected]

1-888-824-3337

editors.familyfeatures.com

About Family Features Editorial Syndicate

A leading source for high-quality food, lifestyle and home and garden content, Family Features provides readers with topically and seasonally relevant tips, takeaways, information, recipes, videos, infographics and more. Find additional articles and information at Culinary.net and eLivingToday.com.

SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate
This acquisition would be Ageras' largest and most significant to date

Shine would bring exceptional and complementary product and tech expertise within banking to Ageras, enhancing the combined company's comprehensive suite and enabling it to service the entire lifecycle for small businesses, from company formation to invoicing, accounting and daily banking and payments

With more than 200,000 customers in France combined, Ageras would be well-positioned to offer a leading all-in-one solution to the country's 4.2m small businesses

Shine will proceed with the usual information and consultation process with its workers' council and the transaction will be subject to the approval by the ACPR (the French financial regulatory authority)

PARIS, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ageras, a leading provider of accounting software, banking, and admin tools for more than 300,000 active SME customers in France, Germany, The Netherlands and Denmark, today announced that it has entered into an exclusive agreement with Societe Generale to acquire Shine, a leading French SME fintech. This transaction, fully in line with Ageras' strategic plan announced with the successful 82 million raise in April 2024, would be the company's largest acquisition to date and its eighth overall.

Reinforcing Ageras' offering and leadership in Europe and France

With the acquisition of Shine, Ageras would strengthen its position as a leading European provider of banking and accounting software for SMEs, expanding its foothold in France, a core market for the Danish-founded fintech since its entry in 2021 with the acquisition of the leading pan-European invoicing software Zervant.

Upon completion of the transaction, the addition of Shine's banking product would enable Ageras to service the entire lifecycle for French small businesses, from company formation to invoicing, accounting and daily banking and payments. In addition, Shine's expertise and technological leadership within banking would strengthen Ageras' banking activities across Europe.

This transaction would represent one of the potential two major acquisitions that Ageras is targeting to build a pan-European champion in banking and accounting software, ahead of a potential IPO in 2026. In its 2023 annual report, Ageras reported 31.7 million in revenue, a 53% increase year-on-year, marking its first profitable year.

"This would be our largest and most significant acquisition to date, moving us closer to achieving our ambition of building the ultimate financial hub for small businesses across Europe. When completed, the combination of Shine's excellent banking product with our broad banking, accounting and business software, would enable us to deliver a complete offering of key financial solutions in France, mirroring our success in other core markets. We are truly impressed with what the Shine team has built and are looking forward to welcoming the team and together building the leading financial player for SMEs in France and across Europe," said Rico Andersen, CEO of Ageras, which he co-founded with Martin Hegelund in 2012.

Shine: a leading fintech for SMEs in France

Founded in 2017 to make the lives of the self-employed and small businesses easier, Shine rapidly became a leading fintech in France. Societe Generale became a majority shareholder in Shine in 2020.

Much more than a business account, Shine also offers a  co-pilot  solution to provide a full daily banking service to SMEs with adjacent features, such as invoicing, payments and company formation. Serving more than 100,000 customers, Shine has been recognized for its stellar customer support by being awarded "Best business bank" by ESCDA in 2024. The company is regulated as a payment institution by the Autorite de controle prudentiel et de resolution (ACPR), the French financial regulatory authority.

"I am proud of what the Shine team has built over the past years and would like to thank Societe Generale for the confidence and their solid support. Shine is offering a superior business banking product with transparent pricing, a great user interface and top-quality support, which is loved by our customers, yielding a strong market position. Invoicing, accounting and daily banking are becoming more and more connected, and under the Ageras umbrella, we would be able to offer a state-of-the-art, comprehensive offering that simplifies the daily life of small businesses in Europe. We are excited to begin this new chapter and take our business to the next level," commented Shine's CEO Jean-Baptiste Sciandra.

Number of small businesses in France has doubled in 10 years

The SME market in France is growing. The country has approximately 4.2 million SMEs, accounting for 99.9% of all businesses. Their numbers increased by 7.7% between 2020 and 2022 and approximately doubled from 2012 to 2022.

"Ageras was founded with a vision to enable success for small businesses by allowing them to run their business, ideally spending zero minutes on administration. Most business owners struggle with an overview of their business, managing their cash flow and various reporting obligations. The acquisition of Shine will allow us to provide a best-in-class product to French SMEs," added Rico Andersen, who himself started his first company with co-founder Martin Hegelund at age 17.

Ageras is mainly backed by Investcorp since 2017 with other shareholders including Lugard Road Capital (Luxor Capital), Rabobank, Lazard, Tryghedsfondet, Back in Black and CIBC.

Ageras would take over all the activities operated by Shine, as well as all employees of the entity.

This transaction will be subject to applicable social procedures, usual suspensive conditions, and the approval of the competent financial and regulatory authorities.

The closing of the transaction is expected in the first half of 2025.

About Ageras:

Ageras was founded in 2012 by serial entrepreneurs Rico Andersen and Martin Hegelund, who together have over 25 years of experience building internet businesses. Ageras' vision is to create success for small businesses by simplifying their administration. By integrating its solutions into a single cockpit for invoicing, accounting, payroll, banking and financing, it enables business owners to focus on running their business. The company's investors include Investcorp, Rabo Frontier Ventures (Rabobank) and Lugard Road Capital (Luxor Capital), Folketrygdfondet and Lazard. For more information, please visit www.ageras.com.

Press contacts:

Ageras

Denmark and international

Rossen & Company

Nicolai Rossen

[email protected]

+45 20729972

France and international

Image Sept

Leslie Jung / Roxane Planas / Sergio de la Calle

[email protected]

+33 1 53 70 74 70

- Ageras A/S, 19/6/24

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/rossen---company/r/ageras-enters-into-an-exclusive-agreement-with-societe-generale-to-acquire-shine-and-become-one-of-t,c4003510

The following files are available for download:

https://news.cision.com/rossen---company/i/shine-green,c3312684 Shine-green https://news.cision.com/rossen---company/i/rico-andersen-3,c3312685 Rico Andersen 3 https://news.cision.com/rossen---company/i/rico-andersen-martin-hegelund-3,c3312686 Rico Andersen Martin Hegelund 3
NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global alternative non credential courses market size is estimated to grow by USD 15376.6 mn from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 23.31% during the forecast period. Growing prominence of alternative non credentialing through m-learning is driving market growth, with a trend towards rapid penetration of internet-enabled devices. However, inadequate cybersecurity measures poses a challenge. Key market players include Blue Mountain Community College, Boston University, Colorado State University, Columbia University, Elmira College, Harvard University, Michigan Technological University, Montgomery College, New York Institute of Finance Inc., New York University, Southern New Hampshire University, Stanford University, Temple University, Tennessee Tech, University of Arkansas, University of Cape Town, University of Illinois, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern Indiana, University System of New Hampshire, Wake Technical Community College, and Yale University.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global alternative non credential courses market 2024-2028

Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report

Alternative Non Credential Courses Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 23.31% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 15376.6 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 18.59 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 58% Key countries US, China, Germany, UK, and India Key companies profiled Blue Mountain Community College, Boston University, Colorado State University, Columbia University, Elmira College, Harvard University, Michigan Technological University, Montgomery College, New York Institute of Finance Inc., New York University, Southern New Hampshire University, Stanford University, Temple University, Tennessee Tech, University of Arkansas, University of Cape Town, University of Illinois, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern Indiana, University System of New Hampshire, Wake Technical Community College, and Yale University

Market Driver

The global alternative non-credential courses market has experienced significant growth due to the increasing number of mobile internet subscriptions, reaching 8.9 billion in 2022. Smartphones and tablets have become essential tools for customized learning, leading to a shift from traditional textbooks to online content. Educational institutions encourage students to bring their digital devices, and vendors assist in enhancing digital library systems through cloud computing. The adoption of smartphones as a preferred platform for educational content is expected to continue boosting market growth, particularly in emerging economies like China and India.

The alternative non-credential courses market is experiencing significant growth, with businesses embracing continuous learning and upskilling. Key areas of focus include blockchain, data analytics, digital marketing, and programming. Microlearning and self-paced courses are trending, providing flexibility for learners. Companies are also investing in employee training through platforms offering affordable, industry-relevant courses. The use of video content and interactive modules enhances the learning experience. The shift towards remote work has further accelerated the demand for online courses. Overall, the market is dynamic and evolving, offering numerous opportunities for professionals seeking to acquire new skills and advance their careers.

Research report provides comprehensive data on impact of trend. For more details- Download a Sample Report

Market Challenges

The global alternative non-credential courses market faces challenges due to cybersecurity concerns in the education sector. With the rise of digital tools, secure registration using personal information and payment details is necessary. Cybersecurity threats, such as malware viruses and unauthorized access, have increased due to the digitization of education. Valuable user and organizational data, lack of centralized data storage, and unregulated use of personal devices contribute to vulnerability. These factors may impede market growth during the forecast period.

The alternative non-credential courses market faces several challenges. Skills like data analysis, blockchain technology, and digital marketing are in high demand, but finding qualified professionals can be difficult. Traditional education methods may not keep pace with industry advancements. Additionally, some companies prefer candidates with practical experience over formal education. To address these challenges, companies collaborate with educational institutions and technology providers to create training programs that focus on hands-on skills and real-world applications. These collaborations result in certificates or badges that validate the learner's competencies, making them attractive to employers. However, the sheer number of available courses and the lack of standardization can make it difficult for learners to choose the right one. Therefore, it's essential to research and evaluate the quality of the course provider and the relevance of the skills being taught.

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Segment Overview

This alternative non credential courses market report extensively covers market segmentation by

Type

1.1 Non-institutional

1.2 Institutional

Geography

2.1 North America

2.2 Europe

2.3 APAC

2.4 South America

2.5 Middle East and Africa

1.1 Non-institutional- The alternative non-credential market is thriving due to the increasing acceptance of non-traditional forms of credentials, such as MOOC-verified certificates and digital badges. Providers like MOOCs offer reliable learning content from top professors, contributing to career and educational goals. The expanding subscriber base is driven by the rising number of MOOCs and free content development by professionals. This segment's growth in regions with a high number of MOOCs is expected during the forecast period.

For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report

Research Analysis

The Alternative Non-Credential Courses market encompasses various forms of m-learning, including open educational resources, delivered through virtual schools and internet-enabled devices. These non-traditional courses offer digital badges and micro-credentials as alternatives to traditional degrees. Publishers play a crucial role in creating and promoting these courses, which often focus on skill acquisition through workshops, bootcamps, and industry certifications. Employers increasingly value practical skills demonstrated through these microcredentials and certificates, which can be showcased on online learning platforms and e-portfolios. Blockchain technology ensures the security and authenticity of these digital credentials, enhancing their value in skills-based hiring and talent development. Industry associations also contribute to the development and recognition of these skills, fostering workforce readiness and industry certifications.

Market Research Overview

The Alternative Non-Credential Courses market refers to educational programs that do not require traditional academic credentials for enrollment. These courses cater to individuals seeking professional development, skill acquisition, or career advancement in various industries. The market encompasses a wide range of offerings, including online courses, workshops, bootcamps, and certifications. These programs often focus on practical, hands-on learning and are designed to equip learners with in-demand skills in areas such as technology, business, creativity, and personal development. The flexibility and affordability of these courses make them an attractive option for individuals looking to upskill or reskill without the commitment of a traditional degree program.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

Type

Non-institutional



Institutional

Geography

North America



Europe



APAC



South America



Middle East And Africa

7 Customer Landscape

8 Geographic Landscape

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10 Company Landscape

11 Company Analysis

12 Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
CANCUN, Mexico, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Arca Continental, one of the largest Coca-Cola bottlers in the world, has been recognized with the "Best Total Score in Mexico CSA 2023" award during the "Issuers Forum" organized by the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV), held from June 12 to 14, 2024 in Cancun.

David Moreno, Corporate Sustainability Manager, Arca Continental. Ihalyra Flores, Corporate Sustainability Lead of Arca Continental.

The BMV reported that Arca Continental was selected for this recognition due to its outstanding participation in the stock market during 2023. This award is granted to companies that have demonstrated exceptional performance and significantly contributed to the growth and development of the stock market in Mexico.

This forum is a key event that brings together top Mexican companies, business leaders, investors, and authorities related to the Mexican Bolsa. This recognition underscores Arca Continental's commitment to operational excellence and transparency in its management, as well as its dedication to creating sustainable value for its shareholders and society in general.

"Receiving the 'Best Total Score in Mexico CSA 2023' is a recognition to our employees, who make Arca Continental's sustainable business model a reality, driving our profitable growth while positively impacting the environment and the communities we serve," said Arturo Gutierrez, CEO of Arca Continental.

Arca Continental reaffirms its commitment to make a difference by promoting shared value, enabling a conducive environment for profitable growth, operational excellence, environmental protection, and comprehensive community development.

About Arca Continental

Arca Continental is a company engaged in the production, distribution and sale of beverages under the brands owned by The Coca-Cola Company. The Coca-Cola Company, as well as salty snacks under the brands Bokados in Mexico, Inalecsa in Ecuador, and Wise and Deep River in the United States. With an outstanding track record of more than 98 years, Arca Continental is the second largest Coca-Cola bottler in the Americas and one of the most important in the world. Through its Coca-Cola franchise, the company serves a population of more than 128 million in the northern and western regions of Mexico, as well as in Ecuador, Peru, the northern region of Argentina and the southwestern United States. Arca Continental is listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange under the symbol "AC". For more information about Arca Continental, please visit www.arcacontal.com.

SOURCE Arca Continental
JAMAICA PLAIN, Mass., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Armenian Women's Welfare Association (AWWA) announced a transition in leadership for the 2024-2025 term. Wendy Deacon Segrest, has been appointed as the new Executive Director of AWWA. Wendy comes to AWWA as a former National Vice President of the American Heart Association, and over twenty years of non-profit Board and Advisory Council leadership roles, including the World Stroke Organization and UT Dallas Center for Vital Longevity. Wendy has served as the AWWA Board Advisor since January 2024 and has been instrumental in developing the next strategic direction for the organization.

Wendy Segrest, AWWA Executive Director and Board President

Wendy is joined by a slate of newly elected female professionals who together will serve as officers for the 2024-2025 term, representing a solid foundation for AWWA at a pivotal time in the organization's history. These leaders bring a breadth of professional and personal experience that will collectively position AWWA to address the challenges facing generations of Armenian women, ensuring that AWWA, with over a decade of compassionate legacy, will best serve the local community and Armenia for the next 100 years.

Alyssa Yenikomshian is an attorney with nearly twenty years of experience in healthcare law, currently working at a biotech company where she focuses on navigating healthcare regulations and supporting global clinical trials and research activities. She will be assuming a new role as Co-Vice President alongside Manneh Ghazarians, a healthcare quality and performance improvement specialist for healthcare systems and regional payers. Laurie Manjikian, OT, a leader in rehabilitation and senior centers will now serve as Treasurer. Hannah Dagg, an experienced Certified Oncology Nurse currently working with patients at several hospitals in the Boston area, will continue to serve as Secretary of AWWA.

As Board President, Wendy is succeeding Martha Mensoian, who after many years of dedicated service and remarkable contributions as the AWWA Board President, will continue her service to the organization's mission as a member of the Advisory Board. Seta Nersessian will also be stepping down from the role of Treasurer after many years of commitment and service and will continue leveraging her financial acumen and strategic thinking to contribute to AWWA's long-term success as an Advisory Board member.

"We are immensely grateful for Martha and Seta's leadership and dedication over the years," said Segrest. "Under their guidance with the Board of Directors, AWWA has made significant strides in advancing its mission of support for aging families in our community and in Armenia. As we embark on this new chapter, I am honored to lead the organization forward, building upon the strong foundation laid by Martha, Seta and the entire leadership team."

These transitions come as AWWA looks to expand its reach and impact, locally and globally in the coming years. "AWWA remains committed to its mission of supporting our elders and their caregivers in the greater New England area through advocacy, services, and community resources," said Martha Mensoian. "I am confident that under the leadership of Wendy and the Board of Directors, AWWA will continue to thrive and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve."

For more information about AWWA and its programs, please visit awwainc.org.

About AWWA

Armenian Women's Welfare Association (AWWA) is a not-for-profit organization established in 1915 dedicated to serving elders and their families both locally and internationally. AWWA is the proud owner of the Armenian Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (ANRC), an 83-bed, not-for-profit, skilled nursing center providing both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care for elderly patients in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston. In 2004, AWWA expanded its mission to Nagorno Karabakh to become a proud supporter of Hanganak Elder Program and Clinic which provided medical care, food, and social support to elders in that region and continues to do so for those elders displaced in Armenia today. AWWA believes that honoring elders is at the very foundation of both family and community. Drawing on the rich history, generosity, and work ethic of the Armenian community, AWWA aims to ensure the health and well-being of elders and their caregivers.

SOURCE AWWA
The W. P. Carey School of Business introduces bachelor's degree in artificial intelligence in business and bachelor's degree in financial technology

TEMPE, Ariz., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In line with rapid innovations in business and technology, the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University is launching several new programs for students seeking to make their mark in developing industries. Two new Bachelor of Science programs, one in artificial intelligence (AI) in business and the other in financial technology, will be offered at ASU starting this fall.

"Just as innovative businesses rapidly adapt to meet new market imperatives, business schools need to meet changing student and employer needs," said Ohad Kadan , Charles J. Robel Dean and W. P. Carey Distinguished Chair in Business. "The new bachelor's degree programs offer students the opportunity to develop alongside emerging industries  making them ready to jumpstart their careers when they graduate."

Bachelor's degree in AI in business allows students to launch careers with vital skills

As AI's role in business operations becomes increasingly significant, there is a growing demand for professionals with combined expertise in AI and business. The newly announced bachelor's degree in AI in business will train a workforce that can leverage AI mindfully toward meaningful value creation within an organization. The goal of this program, offered on ASU's Tempe campus, is to equip students with the necessary technical AI and business skills required to succeed in the constantly evolving landscape of technology and information systems.

"Successful AI strategies require not only technical skills but also business skills and knowledge to manage and implement AI within an organization," said Michele Pfund , senior associate dean of undergraduate programs.

Pei-yu (Sharon) Chen , chair of the Department of Information Systems, explains the new W. P. Carey program is unique because "students learn not just how the technology works, but how to deploy it successfully within a business, and we give them opportunities to practice these skills in an organizational setting under the guidance of world-class business faculty and leaders."

The Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business program aims to cultivate a highly skilled workforce proficient in thoughtfully applying AI across various industries and sectors. Students who earn the degree are well-positioned for careers in a variety of fields, including roles as data analysts, machine learning engineers, AI strategists and program managers, business consultants, and product managers.

Learn more about W. P. Carey's bachelor's degree in AI in business program .

Bachelor's degree in financial technology meets demand in growing industry

Financial technology, commonly referred to as fintech, is a rapidly growing field that has revolutionized financial services. The permeation of technology into traditional banks and financial services firms has led to more efficient, convenient, and accessible financial products for consumers and businesses alike. Further, the use of technology in the provision of financial services has opened opportunities for innovation across the financial sector.

In the fintech program offered on ASU's Polytechnic campus, students will gain insight into key concepts, technologies, and industry trends. They will analyze and evaluate the opportunities and challenges presented by innovations in the delivery of financial services. The new financial technology curriculum will build on the traditional business core with courses in finance, programming, and machine learning, preparing students to work in broad functional areas across the fintech ecosystem.

"The market need for fintech professionals is driven by innovation within traditional financial institutions, increasing digitization of financial services, the need for financial inclusion, and an increasing focus on regulatory compliance," said Laura Lindsey , director of the Department of Finance and Cutler Family Endowed Professor. "W. P. Carey students who complete the fintech curriculum will graduate ready to fill and lead in these roles."

Graduates will be equipped to contribute throughout the financial services landscape, including developing payment systems, improving security in financial transactions, and leveraging data to automate investment decisions, often using cutting-edge technologies like machine learning and blockchain. Potential roles include financial analysts, financial examiners, risk specialists, software developers, and more.

Learn more about W. P. Carey's new bachelor's degree in financial technology .

About the W. P. Carey School of Business

The W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University is the largest and one of the top-ranked business schools in the United States. The school is internationally regarded for its research productivity and distinguished faculty members. Students come from more than 100 countries, and W. P. Carey is represented by alums in over 160 countries. Visit wpcarey.asu.edu .

For more information/media contact:

Shay Moser, W. P. Carey School of Business

[email protected]

SOURCE W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University
EOS Hospitality acquires iconic, skyline-defining hotel in court-approved bankruptcy sale in successful outcome for bondholders

NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In another hospitality-sector bankruptcy sale, global real estate investment bank Eastdil Secured and national advisory firm A&G Real Estate Partners have successfully marketed the luxury William Vale Hotel in Brooklyn's Williamsburg neighborhood.

The transaction, which followed a three-year ownership restructuring and litigation process led by Asaf Ravid, Chief Restructuring Officer of All Year Holdings Ltd., resulted in full payment of all outstanding secured bonds.

Stalking horse bidder EOS Hospitality, a New York-based, full-service hospitality company with a diverse portfolio of hotels across the United States, closed on the skyline-defining, luxury lifestyle hotel on June 18. The $177 million transaction was approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York on May 29.

Perched above Kent Park with unobstructed views of Manhattan, the 183-key, 21-story tower at 111 N. 12th St. is one of just four luxury hotels in Brooklyn. Built in 2016, the hotel boasts top-shelf eateries by restaurateur Andrew Carmellini, 7,300 square feet of high-end indoor and outdoor function spaces and multiple storefronts and offices.

Acting as exclusive advisors, Eastdil Secured and A&G previously marketed another luxury hotel in the neighborhoodthe 147-room Williamsburg Hotel, which sold last year for a total cash-and-debt price of $96 million.

About A&G Real Estate Partners

A&G delivers strategies designed to yield the highest-possible value for clients' real estate. Key areas of expertise include real estate sales, occupancy-cost reductions, lease terminations, real estate due diligence, valuations, and facilitation of growth opportunities. Relying on its marketing knowledge, reputation and advanced technology, A&G has advised the nation's most prominent corporations in both healthy and distressed situations. The firm has sold properties and leases totaling more than $13 billion and achieved nearly $12 billion in rent-reduction and occupancy-cost savings on behalf of clients in every real estate sector. Founded in 2012, A&G is headquartered in Melville, N.Y. For more information, please visit: http://www.agrep.com.

About Eastdil Secured

As the most relevant and trusted advisor in the commercial real estate capital markets, Eastdil Secured creates value for clients through creative, actionable ideas and flawless execution. With an unrivaled combination of capital markets expertise and in-depth understanding of real estate fundamentals, Eastdil Secured delivers best-in-class advice on mergers and acquisitions, sales, joint ventures, debt placement, structured credit and loan sales to investors around the world. Headquartered in New York, Eastdil Secured has a broad global footprint to support clients with offices across the United States in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, Orange County, San Francisco, Seattle, Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C., and internationally in Dubai, Dublin, Frankfurt, London, Milan, Paris, Hong Kong and Tokyo. For more information on Eastdil Secured, the global real estate investment bank, please visit https://www.eastdilsecured.com.

Media Contacts: At Jaffe Communications, Elisa Krantz, (908) 789-0700, [email protected]

SOURCE A&G Real Estate Partners
Over 600 Workers Walk Out at Smart & Final Distribution Centers in Riverside and Commerce

LOS ANGELES, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 600 warehouse workers represented by Teamsters Local 630 at two Chedraui-owned Smart & Final grocery store warehouses in Southern California went on an unfair labor strike today, protesting mass layoffs and other unfair labor practices.

Without these long-time, hard-working employees, Smart & Final could experience massive supply chain disruptions during one of the busiest shopping times of the year. Yet Smart & Final refuses to comply with the law and continues to move forward with its unlawful plan to terminate all these employees and transfer their work to a new facility.

"The clock is ticking for Chedraui/Smart & Final to make things right," said Lou Villalvazo, Teamsters Local 630 Secretary-Treasurer. "The company is continuing to commit unfair labor practices without any regard for its workers. With the busy summer months approaching, the company faces not just a moral but a logistical crisis. They need to act now to guarantee our members their jobs, decent wages, respect and a fair contract. We will not stand by and watch these workers be exploited."

"No one wants to strike," said Juan Fernandez, 24-year veteran at Smart & Final. "It's the last thing we thought we'd have to do. But when our jobs, our families' futures, and our dignity are on the line, we have no choice. This is the only option Chedraui/Smart & Final has left us to safeguard our livelihoods from a company that seems to have forgotten who keeps it running."

Teamsters are fighting plans by Chedraui USA, the U.S. subsidiary of the Mexican grocery giant Grupo Comercial Chedraui, to close two unionized Smart & Final warehouses in Commerce and Riverside, Calif., and terminate the dedicated workers who have kept the Smart & Final brand profitable the past decades. These workers are now forced to reapply for employment at $10 to $12 less per hour at a new warehouse in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

The Teamsters are currently pursuing a wide range of unfair labor practice charges before the National Labor Relations Board. Chedraui USA/Smart & Final is also accused of bad faith bargaining and maintaining an illegal proposal that violates California Assembly Bill (AB) 647, which went into effect in January 2024 and guarantees grocery distribution center workers retention rights when the facilities at which they work undergo a change in control.

"We are not just numbers on a payroll; we are the backbone of Smart & Final," said Daniel Delgado, 20-year veteran at Smart & Final. "It's time the company sees us as essential and not expendable. We demand the dignity that comes with knowing you have a job the next day and the respect of a good union contract. We will accept nothing less."

The two warehouses on strike serve as distribution centers for over 250 Smart & Final grocery stores in California, Nevada, Arizona, and Northern Mexico.

Last year, over 600 dedicated employees at Smart & Final's warehouses in Commerce and Riverside, California, successfully voted to join Teamsters Local 630 despite facing a harsh anti-union campaign from their management in both elections, which notably included the company making its closure announcement just a little over a week before the Riverside election in an attempt to scare employees away from unionizing with the Teamsters.

This is the second unfair labor practice strike held by these workers.

The strike coincides with a growing trend of unrest in the grocery industry, where large grocery chains continue to report record profits, often at the expense of their workers and the public, as the cost of food escalates.

For more than 80 years, Teamsters Local 630 has represented California workers in warehousing, food services, liquor, food processing, dairy, and more industries. Find out more at teamsters630.org.

Contact:

Christian Castro, (310) 857-9817

[email protected]

SOURCE Teamsters Local 630
PLEASANT GROVE, Utah, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today doTERRA , an integrative health and wellness company and world leader in the global aromatherapy and essential oils market, invites you to celebrate International Yoga Day. This day aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga and doTERRA is excited to share with you the benefits of its Signature Yoga Collection through a giveaway.

doTERRAs Yoga Collection features an exclusive trio of CPTG essential oil blends designed to enhance your yoga practice.

Aromatherapy and yoga are ancient wellness practices focused on different aspects of health, and have been in close connection for thousands of years. doTERRA's Yoga Collection features an exclusive trio of CPTG essential oil blends designed to enhance your yoga practice. These blends provide aromas as you steady and center yourself through every breath. The collection includes:

Anchor Steadying Blend  Helps to cultivate a balanced atmosphere in difficult times or positions through a combination of Lavender, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Cinnamon Bark, Frankincense, Black Pepper and Patchouli essential oils.

 Helps to cultivate a balanced atmosphere in difficult times or positions through a combination of Lavender, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Cinnamon Bark, Frankincense, Black Pepper and Patchouli essential oils. Align Centering Blend  Combines the powerful benefits of Bergamot, Coriander, Marjoram, Peppermint, Geranium, Basil, Rose and Jasmine to create a grounding aroma that invites feelings of trust and resolution throughout the session.

 Combines the powerful benefits of Bergamot, Coriander, Marjoram, Peppermint, Geranium, Basil, Rose and Jasmine to create a grounding aroma that invites feelings of trust and resolution throughout the session. Arise Enlightening Blend  Creates an uplifting environment, ideal for setting one's intentions, through mixing Lemon, Grapefruit, Siberian Fir, Osmanthus and Melissa for an effective essential oil blend.

"As a world leader in essential oils and wellness products, we are on a mission to provide consumers with products that amplify their daily lives and wellness practices, including yoga," says Bekah Nixon, VP of Global Product Innovation. "The added benefits essential oils provide when incorporated into yoga is profound, and this International Yoga Day, we want to celebrate this pairing by giving some lucky winners the chance to experience doTERRA through our exciting giveaway."

doTERRA is joining the celebration by giving away ten (10) Yoga Collection Bundles, valued at $80 each. Please visit https://contest.doterra.com/ to enter and for official rules of the giveaway. The contest is open to US residents, 18 years or older, through June 26, 2024.

About doTERRA

doTERRA International is an integrative health and wellness company and the world leader in the global aromatherapy and essential oils market. doTERRA sources, tests, manufactures, and distributes CPTG Certified Pure Tested Grade essential oils and essential oil products to over 10 million Wellness Advocates and customers. doTERRA is committed to maintaining the highest levels of quality, purity, and sustainability, partnering with local growers around the world through its industry-leading Co-Impact Sourcing model. Like and follow doTERRA on Facebook and Instagram and learn more at www.doTERRA.com.

SOURCE doTERRA International, LLC
Photo: Fisker

Good morning! Its Tuesday, June 18, 2024, and this is The Morning Shift, your daily roundup of the top automotive headlines from around the world, in one place. Here are the important stories you need to know.



1st Gear: Fisker Files For Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. RIP

Fisker officially filed for bankruptcy protection on the evening of June 17 in a move by the U.S. electric vehicle maker to salvage its operations by selling assets and restricting its debt. The move comes after burning through billions in cash in an attempt to get production of its Ocean electric crossover ramped up.

Anyone from the outside could have seen this coming from a long way away. Ultimately, Fisker got further than some EV startups like Proterra and Lordstown, but it just didnt have enough juice to overcome weakening demand, fundraising issues and global supply chain constraints. Goodnight, sweet prince. From Reuters:

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The company, founded by automotive designer Henrik Fisker, flagged doubts about its ability to remain in business in February and later failed to secure an investment from a big automaker, forcing it to rein in operations. The collapse of its talks with the automaker - which Reuters had reported to be Nissan - meant that it was denied $350 million in funding from an unnamed investor that was contingent on the automakers investment and forced Fisker to explore options. Like other companies in the electric vehicle industry, we have faced various market and macroeconomic headwinds that have impacted our ability to operate efficiently, Fisker said.

In the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in Delaware, Fisker estimated its assets to be between $500 million and $1 billion, and it had liabilities between $100 million and $500 million. Its 20 largest creditors included blue-chip companies like Google, Adobe and SAP.

Heres a little more on how Fisker found itself in this position:

Fisker went public in late 2020 in a merger with a blank-check firm, valuing it at $2.9 billion and infusing its balance sheet with more than $1 billion in cash. [...] Henrik Fisker - a former design consultant for Tesla - had said at the time of the listing that Fisker wanted to be the Apple of the auto industry by outsourcing manufacturing of its cars. The asset light model was meant to reduce development times for vehicles and lower costs to take a vehicle to the market.

Its Ocean SUV, however, was wrought with software and hardware issues, with Consumer Reports, an influential non-profit, calling the vehicle unfinished business. The car is also under regulatory investigation for braking issues, problems with shifting into park and other modes and failure of doors to open at times. After delivering less than half of the more than 10,000 vehicles it produced last year, Fisker turned to a dealership-based distribution model in January, abandoning the direct-to-consumer approach pioneered by Tesla. It had signed agreements for 15 dealer locations in the U.S. and 12 partners in Europe, but still failed to clear its inventory of more than 5,000 cars. Fisker has been on life support for months now, so todays announcement doesnt come as a surprise. It wasnt the first EV upstart to declare bankruptcy and we dont think itll be the last, said Garrett Nelson, vice-president and equity analyst at CFRA Research.

Story continues

Fisker was supposed to be the grand comeback for Henrick Fisker. This was his second go of it after his first venture with the Fisker Karma hybrid sedan went bust in 2013. Perhaps the third time is the charm, Henrik?

OK, in actuality, please do not try this again. Henrik, buddy, I promise you do not need to keep doing this to yourself. You designed some beautiful cars. Theres no need to make an entire company.

2nd Gear: Musks Payday Legal Battle Starts Now

A few days ago, Tesla shareholders voted to give CEO Elon Musk his massive payday, but the fight for that money is far from over. The automaker must now begin its legal fight for recognition of the shareholders vote. It told a Delaware judge that the will of the shareholders significantly impacts her ruling that initially voided the payday. From Reuters:

Tesla wrote to Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick that the parties in the pay package case should now lay out their legal interpretations of Thursdays ratification of Musks pay, rather than moving ahead with the case on the prior schedule. The approval of ratification by Teslas stockholders significantly impacts the claims and issues in this action, including the courts final judgment, Tesla attorneys told McCormick in the letter, which was filed with the Court of Chancery on Friday. Greg Varallo, a shareholder attorney in the case against the pay package, said the ratification had no legal effect on the case and that he would explain his argument in a brief due Friday. Tesla has said the ratification process was novel and it was unclear if McCormick and the Delaware Supreme Court would accept the result. Tesla has argued that the ratification has now cured the problems raised in McCormicks ruling in January.

The judge ruled the way she did because she found Musk had controlled the 2018 process that led to the pay package. Additionally, Tesla withheld key information from shareholders about how easy the targets the company had to meet were to get Musk paid.

A special committee of its board reviewed the pay package and determine it was in the best interest of shareholders, which Tesla said fixed the problem of Musks dominance in the process. The vote was corrected by providing shareholders hundreds of pages of added disclosures, including McCormicks 200-page opinion.

On top of all of this, McCormick has to determine a fee for the shareholder legal team before Tesla can appeal her ruling to the Delaware Supreme Court. Theyre apparently seeking about $5 billion in the form of Tesla stock as a legal fee. Shockingly, Tesla argues they should be paid around $13.6 million.

Listen, I know Tesla and Elon have made a lot of people a lot of money, but no one on Earth has ever done a good enough job to be paid upwards of $45 billion. However, I will take $20 if hes offering.

3rd Gear: 1.2 Million Stellantis Vehicles Recalled

Stellantis is recalling 1,159,963 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada because a radio software problem could interfere with the cars rearview camera display. It is such a funny company. 1,033,433 vehicles will be recalled in the U.S., and a further 126,530 will need to be fixed in Canada From Automotive News:

The recall covers the 2021-23 Chrysler Pacifica, 2021-22 Dodge Durango, 2022-23 Jeep Compass, 2021-23 Grand Cherokee, 2022-23 Wagoneer, 2022-23 Grand Wagoneer, 2022-23 Ram Promaster and the 2022 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 vehicles. Affected vehicles rearview cameras might not function when backing up, increasing the risk of a crash, NHTSA said in its recall report. The top U.S. auto safety regulator requires rearview images to be clearly visible while a vehicle is backing up. Stellantis was its own parts supplier, according to NHTSA. The recall was prompted by a routine review of customer feedback, a Stellantis spokesperson said in an e-mail. The resulting company investigation discovered some vehicles were equipped with radio software that could inadvertently disable the rearview camera.

The automaker will reportedly attempt an over-the-air update to fix the camera issue, and owners will be notified by mail starting on August 2.

Its been a rough year for Stellantis in terms of recalls. This year alone, the automaker has issued 30 recalls that have impacted about 2.2 million vehicles. Ouch.

4th Gear: Tesla Gets OK To Test Advanced Driver Assist Program In Shanghai

Tesla has been given approval to test its Full Self-Driving advanced driver-assistance system on some streets in Shanghai. Its another step in the right direction for the automaker that wants to start offering the feature to drivers in China. From Bloomberg:

The city of Hangzhou in eastern Chinas Zhejiang province may also issue approval for carmaker to test the system, according to the person, who declined to be identified because the information isnt public. The initial tests will be conducted by Tesla staff, the person said. [...] The approvals come about six weeks after Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk got a tentative green light to deploy the companys advanced driver-assistance system during a lightning visit to Beijing, sending Teslas shares surging. Advanced driver-assistance systems are becoming increasingly common in China, with many local players including Xpeng Inc. and Xiaomi Corp. using them as a selling point for vehicles. Tesla charges $8,000 for the system it markets as Full Self-Driving in the US, or $99 a month for a subscription. The suite of features dont make the companys cars autonomous and require constant supervision. In China, Tesla has taken orders for FSD via one-off payments of 64,000 yuan ($8,800), up from 56,000 yuan in 2020. However, since drivers cant actually activate FSD in China, only a small number of owners have been paying for the option.

Time will tell if FSD is approved for use in China. I mean, its sort of half-baked here in the U.S., so I cannot imagine its going to fare very well.

Reverse: He Never Did Find The Killer

Neutral: PHEV Is The Way To Go

On The Radio: Charli xcx - 360'

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The company will begin rolling out its AI-enabled commerce platform, offering distributors and restaurants tools to enhance purchasing efficiency, analytics, and profitability.

SAN FRANCISCO, June 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cheetah Technologies , a restaurant and food distribution commerce platform, announced today the sale of their physical distribution business based in Pleasanton, CA, to Paul Jensen, 2nd generation owner of Palo Alto Foods. The company will be focused on bringing the technology that allowed them to scale their distribution business to the entire industry. With its features like digital product catalogs, personalized insights and recommendations, integrated payment processing, routing management, automated inventory tracking through point-of-sale integration and in-app support, the platform drastically increases profitability and efficiency of distributors, while lowering the carbon footprint.

"We built our restaurant application and distribution commerce platform to support our distribution business," said Kim Spalding, CEO of Cheetah. "We saw firsthand how our platform upleveled our own customer experience and drove unprecedented NPS scores - 58 - in an industry that often averages NPS scores around 10. Over the last decade, the front of house of this industry has been digitized, while the back of house has remained unchanged. The food supply space, which is the largest portion of restaurant back of house, is a $400B opportunity. This is a larger opportunity than restaurant front of house which has produced more than $70B in market cap for disruptive start-ups. We're going to seize that opportunity."

Spalding, who had an illustrious career at Google, Starbucks, & McKinsey, joined the company in 2023 and with the support of the board, pivoted to commercializing their technology. She recently closed on an additional $14 million in funding and focused on vertical SaaS for the restaurant supply. "I'm excited to be scaling our AI-enabled distributor platform," said Spalding. "Our decision to sell our physical distribution business to Paul Jensen was an easy one, as he's a strong operator and trusted partner. We are now focused on scaling our platform into this exciting market and building expansions that will digitize additional workflows for distributors, restaurants and manufacturers."

Paul Jensen, CEO of Palo Alto Foods, considered a pioneer in the adoption and celebration of organic products, said, "This is the best of both worlds. I get to continue to do what I have loved my entire career: helping independent restaurants succeed, but now with an even greater platform. With their new focus, Cheetah's technology won't just be an irreplaceable asset for my business, but will be an absolute game-changer for the entire foodservice industry."

Palo Alto Foods is a business Jensen's father started more than 40 years ago and began as a humble seller of local eggs. Jensen added, "As kids, my brother Eric and I worked side by side with him before eventually taking over the company. I can remember the landscape of Silicon Valley in a very different way. We've been fortunate to successfully grow with our customers, such as Google, Pixar, and Stanford Hospital, over the years. We are ecstatic about taking our business to the next level with this deal."

The last shipment out of the Cheetah warehouse will be its software.

Distributors interested in more information please contact Cheetah Technologies' Co-Founder Christopher Elliott, [email protected]

About Cheetah

Cheetah launched the first restaurant supply app, providing the simplest, most affordable way for restaurants to get their daily supplies. Cheetah's technology was developed to solve the complex issues facing foodservice distribution including supply chain management, logistics optimization, data analytics, and purchasing algorithms which enhance efficiency and profitability for every partner in the channel. Proprietary solutions connect multiple supply-side systems with in-house sales software bringing a lean, efficient, and reliable approach to the foodservice ecosystem. This software reduces the time & labor needed to place & process orders while minimizing food waste.

Cheetah is founded and run by technology industry veterans, engineers, data scientists, supply chain and logistics experts, and innovators who have come together to help restaurateurs, distributors, and manufacturers thrive.

For more information on Cheetah, please contact [email protected]

SOURCE Cheetah Technologies
SHANGHAI, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ethiopian coffee has been rapidly gaining traction in the Chinese market in recent years, with sales growing at a staggering rate of 27 percent annually.

This rapid growth has been significantly boosted by platforms such as the China International Import Expo and cross-border e-commerce, which serve as effective gateways for overseas brands to enter China and present numerous opportunities for Ethiopian businesses.

Ethiopia's pavilion is seen at the CIIE.

One standout success story is the Ethiopian coffee brand Gera, which showcased roasted coffee beans at the third CIIE. During the expo, the brand's Yirgacheffe and Sidamo coffees were signed up to a prominent cross-border e-commerce platform, immediately available for consumers.

During the fifth CIIE, Ethiopian highland coffee with vibrant orange packaging was drawing eyes. After being showcased in an e-commerce livestream during the expo, 17,000 boxes were sold in just one evening. Online sales of Ethiopian coffee surged 300 percent during the sixth CIIE.

Traditionally, Ethiopian coffee growers and processors only accounted for less than 10 percent of profits in the export trade, with the majority of profits lying in distribution and sales. Leveraging the CIIE for cross-border e-commerce sales has effectively reduced trade costs, benefiting Ethiopian coffee farmers and allowing Chinese consumers to enjoy premium coffee beans at more affordable prices.

Witnessing the growing popularity of Ethiopian coffee among Chinese consumers, Tefera Derbew Yimam, Ethiopian ambassador to China, expressed great delight. He noted that China has become one of the primary importers of Ethiopian coffee. Ethiopian coffees have received rave reviews at the CIIE over the years, prompting many businesses to showcase their products at the event. "The embassy will continue to facilitate Ethiopian business participation in the expo," Yimam said.

Coffee trade is just one aspect of the trade relationship between China and Ethiopia. Products like sesame seeds and green beans from Ethiopia have also made their way to supermarkets, stores, and retail markets in China.

At the sixth edition of the expo, Ethiopian sesame trader Duka Engineering & Trading Plc reached a preliminary cooperation agreement with Shandong's Ruifu Sesame Oil Co Ltd, which would purchase 6,000 metric tons of sesame seeds.

In October 2023, Ethiopia and China upgraded their bilateral relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership. In a joint statement, China expressed its desire to continue encouraging and supporting Ethiopian exports to China, including agricultural and food products.

With the Chinese market serving as a key driver of Ethiopian exports, Ethiopia's distinctive offerings are expected to make a splash at this year's expo, presenting vast business opportunities for its enterprises.

ContactMs. Cui Yan

Tel.0086-21-968888

Email[email protected]

Websitehttp://www.ciie.org/zbh/en/

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/ciieonline

Twitterhttps://twitter.com/ciieonline

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2442954/CIIE_1.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1938442/4645714/CIIE_Logo.jpg

SOURCE CIIE
New Equipment Provides Tempered Glass for the Overhead Door Market

ELKHART, Ind., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cleer Vision Tempered Glass, an AIRXCEL brand, has recently enhanced its production capabilities with the installation of a new tempered glass oven at its Elkhart, Indiana facility. This strategic update not only significantly increases production efficiency while using less energy but also positions Cleer Vision to expand its manufacturing outreach beyond the RV industry, specifically to better serve the overhead door industry they serve today.

Cleer Vision Tempered Glass new Glaston oven.

Marc Disher, the sales manager at Cleer Vision, highlights the strategic benefits of this new installation, noting its role in boosting production capacity and ensuring operational continuity even during maintenance periods. This move is part of a larger investment strategy aimed at strengthening market leadership and reducing lead times, affirming Cleer Vision's commitment to meeting customer demands promptly and efficiently.

With operations already underway, Cleer Vision continues to demonstrate its dedication to growth and innovation by actively participating in industry events and associations, such as the International Door Association and the IDA Expo in Las Vegas. This commitment not only underscores the brand's dedication to the overhead door market but also its overall mission to lead and innovate within the industry.

About Cleer Vision: Cleer Vision is comprised of three divisions  Cleer Vision Windows, Cleer Vision Tempered Glass, and Cleer Vision Doors  working to serve the building needs of the RV industry. Cleer Vision has been an Elkhart company since its inception in 2003, joining the Airxcel family of brands in 2021. CleerVision.com

About Airxcel, Inc.: Airxcel is the leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of the most critically functional products for the RV industry. Headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, the Airxcel family of brands includes 16 companies with 14 facilities across the U.S. and Europe. Airxcel.com

SOURCE Cleer Vision Tempered Glass
Partnership embeds end-user sentiment analysis into Computacenter's Intelligent Support services to further understand, manage and improve employee IT experience.

HELSINKI, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Computacenter, a leading independent technology and services provider, and HappySignals, the Human-Centric IT Experience Management company, are excited to announce a strategic partnership that empowers Computacenter customers to understand the positive and negative impact of their IT on their business and people.

Computacenter and HappySignals logos Experience-driven IT Decision-making. HappySignals IT Experience Management Platform enables you to truly place your end-users at the center of IT. Get experience insights and make data-driven decisions to improve across different IT areas.

HappySignals experience management analysis tool will be a vital component of Computacenter's ground-breaking Sentiment Benchmarking Service and a rich source of information into their XMO (Experience Management Office), massively enhancing the definition, delivery, and business relevance of experience level agreements (XLAs) for IT. Understanding end-user sentiment is crucial in today's digital landscape.

Studies have shown that companies with high levels of employee satisfaction experience a 20% increase in productivity and a 21% improvement in profitability. With this partnership, Computacenter aims to provide deeper insights into end-user experiences, allowing for more preemptive, proactive and responsive IT service management.

"This exciting partnership with HappySignals reflects our dedication to continual innovation and excellence," says Richard Umney, Director, Portfolio Innovation and Design at Computacenter. He added "The new Sentiment Benchmarking Service, part of our Intelligent Support proposition, gives customers the ability to understand and manage employee experience of IT across their organisation  giving the insight that enables that experience to continuously improve. IT should empower employees to thrive in their roles, and we play a crucial part in helping organizations succeed in this area".

Katie Bates, VP Global Partnerships and Alliances at HappySignals, highlights the significance of this announcement: "This partnership not only enhances HappySignals and Computacenter's service offerings but also elevates the importance of experience level agreements in the market. Understanding the employee experience within enterprise organisations is more important now than ever before, and Computacenter's approach to delivering human-centric services shines a new and exciting lens on true service excellence."

Want to know more?

Using the market-leading SaaS tool for sentiment analysis from HappySignals, along with their extensive internal service data and insights, enables Computacenter to provide customers with rich, relevant, and credible data and actionable recommendations on the experience of using IT and the impact this has on the productivity of their users  across the organisation. The nine dimensions measured include not just the traditional reactive elements of end-user satisfaction measurement but extend out across the whole range of IT services people use in the daily working lives.

Benefits of the Partnership:

Enhanced Service Quality: HappySignals' human experience analysis capabilities will allow Computacenter to identify and address customers' IT issues more efficiently, resulting in improved end-user satisfaction and productivity.

Real-Time Feedback: The partnership will enable Computacenter to gather real-time feedback from users, providing immediate insights into their Customers' IT experiences and helping them to make data-driven decisions.

Benchmarking and Analytics: HappySignals offers industry-standard benchmarking, allowing Computacenter to compare its IT service performance against market leaders and continuously strive for excellence.

Experience Management Leader: Computacenter's human-centric approach makes them a top choice for IT services, setting them apart as forward-thinking in prioritising user sentiment.

For additional information:

Computacenter

Katrina Parker

Senior Marketing Communication Manager

[email protected]

HappySignals

Katie Bates

VP Global Partnerships and Alliances

+ 358-40-552 9084

[email protected]

About Computacenter

Computacenter is a leading independent technology and services provider, trusted by large corporate and public sector organisations. We are a responsible business that believes in winning together for our people and our planet. We help our customers to Source, Transform and Manage their technology infrastructure to deliver digital transformation, enabling people and their business. Computacenter plc is a public company quoted on the London Stock Exchange and a member of the FTSE 250. Computacenter employs over 20,000 people worldwide. Find out more: www.computacenter.com

About HappySignals

HappySignals is the leading SaaS company for IT Experience Management, empowering enterprises to improve employee experiences. HappySignals enables IT leaders to get a real-time understanding of the experiences they deliver to end-users across all IT services. IT leaders use experience data to make informed decisions to improve employee happiness and productivity. HappySignals discovers the experiences of millions of employees in 130 countries. Customers have been able to make employees happier and increase productivity by 26%. Find out more: www.happysignals.com

SOURCE HappySignals
TORONTO and GATINEAU, QC, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - Converge Technology Solutions Corp. ("Converge" or "the Company") (TSX: CTS) (FSE: 0ZB) (OTCQX: CTSDF), is pleased to announce the election of Gayle Morris and Mary Hassett to the Company's Board of Directors.

Gayle Morris is a corporate technology executive with 30+ years' experience in high-tech computing, software, and networking across top global companies including Microsoft, Cisco, BEA Systems, and Dell. Throughout her distinguished career Gayle has been pivotal in leading significant market transitions, specializing in both direct and indirect sales models, and in all aspects of product and service go-to-market. In her last role at Microsoft, as Corporate Vice President Worldwide Corporate Accounts and Partner Sales, she played a crucial role in delivering growth in cloud while modernizing sales approaches.

"I'm thrilled to join the Converge Board of Directors as the Company helps its customers navigate this new era of AI transformation," stated Gayle Morris. "Converge is uniquely positioned to help its customers drive tangible business outcomes through its extensive portfolio of service offerings. I believe my experience in scaling businesses through market transitions at some of the world's leading technology companies will enhance my contributions at Converge as they grow the business with a services-led approach."

"I'm happy to announce the addition of Gayle to the Converge Board," stated Thomas Volk, Executive Chair of Converge's Board of Directors. "Gayle's experience in leading strategy and global business development at top technology companies including Microsoft, Cisco, BEA Systems, and Dell will be a major asset to Converge and will serve as a catalyst to the Board."

Mary Hassett is a corporate executive with 25+ years' experience in Human Resource leadership roles. Currently, Mary holds the role of Senior Vice President and Chief of Human Resources at Lam Research, where she is responsible for aligning Lam's valued people resources to the company's strategic priorities while supporting employee engagement, leadership development, and instilling a strong company culture. Notably, Mary previously served as Senior Vice President of Human Resources for Hewlett Packard Enterprise ("HPE") for the company's Hybrid IT organization.

"I couldn't be happier to join Converge's Board of Directors," stated Mary Hassett. "Converge's people-first approach and high focus on their relationships with customers, partners, and their own employees have greatly contributed to the Company's success. I look forward to furthering Converge's growth as part of the Board and believe my experience at leading research and technology organizations will contribute to a more robust strategy for the company moving forward."

"I am extremely pleased to have Mary join the Converge Board," stated Thomas Volk, Executive Chair of Converge's Board of Directors. "Mary's experience at Lam Research and HPE, where she was instrumental in leading human resource initiatives with a strong focus on company culture, will complement the Board and be of great value to the Company."

About Converge

Converge Technology Solutions Corp. is a services-led, software-enabled, IT & Cloud Solutions provider focused on delivering industry-leading solutions. Converge's global approach delivers advanced analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), application modernization, cloud platforms, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and digital workplace offerings to clients across various industries. The Company supports these solutions with advisory, implementation, and managed services expertise across all major IT vendors in the marketplace. This multi-faceted approach enables Converge to address the unique business and technology requirements for all clients in the public and private sectors. For more information, visit convergetp.com.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation regarding Converge and its business. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected" "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts". "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Specifically, statements regarding the expected impact and benefits to the Company and its Board of Ms. Morris' and Ms. Hassett's election to the Company's Board of Directors are considered forward-looking statements. These statements are based on factors or assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including assumptions based on historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Although the Company bases these forward-looking statements on assumptions that it believes are reasonable when made, the Company cautions investors that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual benefits or impact to the Company or its Board from such election may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. In addition, even if the benefits or impacts to the Company or its Board are consistent with the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, those results may not be indicative of results or developments in future periods.

There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information, which speaks only as of the date made. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the company's expectations as of the date specified herein, and are subject to change after such date. However, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking information or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of those statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws. All of the forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statements.

SOURCE Converge Technology Solutions Corp.
Multidisciplinary Facility to be named the Melchiorre Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center

LIVINGSTON, N.J., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), an RWJBarnabas Health facility, has received a visionary gift of $30 million from Andrea and Anthony Melchiorre to support the new multidisciplinary standalone cancer center now under construction on the hospital campus in Livingston, New Jersey. Scheduled to open in 2025, the facility will be known as the Melchiorre Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center.

Pictured at the signing ceremony: (l-r) Richard L. Davis, President and CEO, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, Bruce Schonbraun, Chair, Board of Trustees, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center, Anthony and Andrea Melchiorre, Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer, RWJBarnabas Health.

Over the past 12 years, the Melchiorre family has been extremely generous to the hospital, supporting numerous programs, including the Cooperman Family Pavilion, Radiation Oncology, and the Emergency Department. The family's most recent commitment brings their total giving to the hospital to nearly $50 million and supports the new $225 million, five-story, 137,000-square-foot cancer center.

"Like countless families, we have been personally touched by cancer," stated Andrea and Anthony Melchiorre. "We know that this new cancer center, which will bring together the region's top oncologists with best-in-class services in one dedicated setting, will bring renewed hope to people in New Jersey and throughout the region."

"We are incredibly grateful to the Melchiorre family for this profoundly generous gift, as well as for their unwavering service to CBMC and RWJBarnabas Health. Through their investment, we are expanding access to cancer care across New Jersey," said Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer of RWJBarnabas Health.

Bruce Schonbraun, Chair of the Board of Trustees at CBMC, added, "As a member of the Board of Trustees since 2017, Andrea has embodied visionary leadership and support and has helped build CBMC into a true regional and national destination for world-class cancer care. I join the board, leadership, medical staff, and the entire organization in conveying our unending gratitude to Andrea and Anthony."

"When this new center opens in December 2025, it will serve as the northern hub for RWJBarnabas Health's oncology services," said Richard L. Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer of CBMC. "Thanks to donors like the Melchiorres, patients will have access to a full array of medical, surgical, and radiation oncology services under one roof."

Building on their longstanding partnership, RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, are making transformative statewide investments to reimagine cancer care. The Melchiorre Cancer Center along with the Vogel Medical Campus in Monmouth County and the Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center in New Brunswick, which will be New Jersey's first freestanding cancer hospital, will bring together nationally recognized physicians and provide the most advanced cancer treatments and compassionate care for the communities we serve.

"RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute have created an integrated world-class network of comprehensive cancer research and care, bringing new state-of-the-art facilities such as the Melchiorre Cancer Center, close to home for patients," stated Steven K. Libutti, MD, Director of Rutgers Cancer Institute and Senior Vice President, Oncology Services, RWJBarnabas Health. "We are extremely grateful to supporters like the Melchiorre family who are helping us transform the face of cancer, together."

"Expanded capabilities and facilities are made possible in part thanks to growing philanthropic investments being made to the health system," said Glenn Miller, Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer for RWJBarnabas Health. "People want to support our mission  and they want to fight cancer. This gift from Andrea and Anthony is the fifth historic gift that we have received in the last few years. We are humbled by these visionary investments that inspire donors at all levels."

About Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center

Since 1865, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC), formerly known as Saint Barnabas Medical Center, has worked to exceed our community's highest expectations for compassionate, comprehensive health care. As New Jersey's oldest nonsectarian hospital, the 597-bed institution located in Livingston, New Jersey, is one of the largest health care providers in the state, treating more than 34,000 inpatients and 90,000 Emergency Department patients each year. Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and the Ambulatory Care Center provide treatment and services for more than 250,000 outpatient visits annually. Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center has long been recognized as a leader in providing world-class care  delivering close to 6,300 babies annually, which is one of the largest programs in the state, leading the nation in kidney transplant, and providing more than 100 medical and surgical specialty and subspecialty services. RWJBarnabas Health and Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute  the state's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center  brings a world class team of researchers and specialists to fight alongside you, providing close-to-home access to the latest treatment and clinical trials. To learn more, go to rwjbh.org/cbmccancercenter

SOURCE RWJBarnabas Health
In early 2023, Cousins Maine Lobster began conducting a series of road shows to build brand awareness and gauge market potential. Throughout their visits, CML has received an overwhelmingly positive response from local seafood fans, attracting large crowds, building strong partnerships with local venues, and creating a loyal fan base and following on social media.

Angela Coppler, CML's Head of Development, shared, "We're very fortunate to have the ability to leverage our food trucks to explore new markets and engage with the local community to assess brand potential. We've seen tremendous success and a growing fan base as we've conducted tours across Missouri and the Midwest. These tests have informed our growth strategy, including our upcoming launch in Kansas City and Columbia this July. We are continuing to talk with potential franchise partners for St. Louis and other Midwest markets. Our road shows present a great opportunity to connect with local entrepreneurs interested in driving growth in partnership with an incredible family-owned brand like Cousins Maine Lobster."

The CML St. Louis Road Show starts June 26th in St. Louis and concludes in Millstadt, IL on June 30th. The full tour schedule is available below.

Wednesday, June 26th

Blue Jay Brewing

3:00pm  8:00pm

2710 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103

Thursday, June 27th

Ellisville Square Shopping Center

11:00am  7:00pm

15909-15957 Manchester Rd., Ellisville, MO 63011

Friday, June 28th

Second Shift Brewing

3:00pm  8:00pm

1601 Sublette Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

Saturday, June 29th

Second Shift Brewing

12:00pm  8:00pm

1601 Sublette Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110

Sunday, June 30th

Millpond Brewing

12:00pm  6:00pm

308 E Washington St., Millstadt, IL 62260

For more information on franchising, visit Cousins Maine Lobster or contact Lindsay Herberger, Director of Franchise Development, at [email protected].

This is not an offer to sell a franchise, which can only be made through the delivery of a Franchise Disclosure Document.

SOURCE Cousins Maine Lobster
RIGA, Latvia, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- DEAC and Data Logistics Center (DLC) celebrate 25 years of data center and network expertise by merging into a joint brand, Delska. This strategic merger will benefit businesses, offering sophisticated solutions for reliable operations of IT infrastructure and networks across multiple locations.

Both companies have been part of the Baltic Rezo group, owned by Swiss Quaero European Infrastructure Fund II and managed by Quaero Capital since 2020, accelerating development and infrastructure expansion. The legal entities will stay the same.

DEAC and DLC merged into a new brand Delska.

Andris Gailitis, DEAC and DLC CEO, comments: "We are embarking on an exciting rebranding journey, which involves closer cooperation between companies and an expanded services portfolio to meet IT challenges of our customers from over 40 countries. The heart of the new brand is customers and personal approach to their business. Our strength lies in custom solutions for specific business and industry needs."

Delska's values are openness, flexibility, and reliability. Both companies still emphasize security, quality, and sustainability by using green energy and Neste MY diesel from HVO for backup power generators.

AI boom, increased demand for large-scale data processing, edge and high-power computing have accelerated the construction of data centers. To keep up with the lack of power capacities in major European hubs, a new 10 MW data center in Latvia is under construction. It will be one of the region's most sustainable, with LEED and Tier III certifications, scheduled for launch in 2025. Flexible options of up to 100kW per rack and 1000 racks are available for pre-booking, and the construction project can be adapted by expanding up to 50 MW.

Delska's growth plans include building a new data center in Lithuania, and additional players joining the group soon to build a strong regional data center and network ecosystem. Several owned data centers in Riga and Vilnius and points of presence in Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Stockholm ensure customers' business continuity with disaster recovery solutions.

Delska offers a comprehensive range of IT services  cloud, dedicated servers, security, network solutions, and managed services. "In addition to currently available virtual machine deployment on our self-service platform, built for SMBs, developers, and startups, this year we will implement instant bare metal service to simplify IT people's lives even further," emphasis A. Gailitis.

Learn more: www.delska.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2441990/DEAC_and_DLC.jpg

Logo -https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2441991/4769458/DEAC_DLC_DELSKA_Logo.jpg

SOURCE DEAC & DLC
NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael Clay, a prominent figure in the insurance and construction diversity sector, brings over three decades of transformative leadership and public policy expertise to Embrace Partners. With a distinguished career, notably at DASNY, Clay has shown unwavering commitment to driving diverse economic growth in public and private sectors, as well as business communities across New York. His innovative initiatives, including New York's inaugural statewide Surety Training program and the pioneering of New York's first minority discretionary General Liability procurement, highlight his dedication to diversity and inclusivity.

With over three decades of transformative leadership and extensive experience in public policy programming, Michael M. Clay brings a wealth of expertise to his new role at Embrace Partners. Throughout his remarkable career, Michael has demonstrated a relentless commitment to fostering economic development and driving growth within the public and private sectors, particularly in the small business community across New York State.

As a visionary senior executive, Michael has led pioneering initiatives that have reshaped economic landscapes and empowered small businesses while effectively managing risks. Noteworthy achievements include spearheading New York State's first statewide Surety Bond Training program and developing the first minority/majority discretionary General Liability Insurance procurement in the state, highlighting his dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Michael's impact extends beyond procurement innovation. He has successfully managed the development and implementation of New York State's inaugural Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) technical assistance program, providing vital support to MWBEs involved in DASNY projects. His expertise in technology procurement has enhanced DASNY's website, improving prime bidder and MWBE sub/supplier interaction to enhance agency-wide purchasing efficiency.

Most recently, Michael played a key role in the development of the innovative DASNY Capital Management Plan (CMP) in collaboration with partners Local Initiative Service Corporation (LISC) and Cayemitte Capital Management team. This program offered MWBE/SDVOB subcontractors' opportunities to qualify for bonding and project-specific capital access, setting a standard for inclusive procurement practices nationwide.

In his new role, Michael will oversee all procurement strategy and execution at Embrace Partners, utilizing his vast experience to optimize processes, cultivate strategic partnerships, and drive sustainable growth.

"Michael M. Clay is an exceptional addition to our team," said David Cayemitte, CEO of Embrace Partners. "His commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility and his expertise in procurement align perfectly with our values and vision. We look forward to his leadership in driving our strategic objectives and reinforcing our position as a leader in inclusive procurement practices."

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:

David Cayemitte

CEO, Embrace Partners

[email protected]

646-753-1526

SOURCE Embrace Partners, Inc.
Developed an Acoustic AI system that analyzes subtle sounds from production processes and applies them to the Changwon EPS (Electric Power Steering) plant.

AI technology tailored for manufacturing Analyzing the operational sounds of products to inspect for defects at a rate of one per second.

SEOUL, South Korea, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Mobis (KRX: 012330) has developed an AI system utilizing sound for quality inspection, which is now implemented in its production lines. This innovative approach leverages artificial intelligence to analyze the subtle sounds generated during product inspection to determine quality accuracy.

On June 18th, Hyundai Mobis announced that it has recently completed a pilot implementation of an Acoustic AI-based inspection system at its Changwon plant, which produces EPS.

Hyundai Mobis has established an AI system at its Changwon plant for quality inspection of EPS (Electric Power Steering).

Acoustic AI represents a new generation of artificial intelligence technology, distinguished from generative AI, which relies on language for Q&A tasks. It remains relatively untested in the manufacturing industry.

The key to Acoustic AI is developing algorithms that assign meaning to specific sounds and facilitate appropriate judgments. Hyundai Mobis has invested significant effort in developing various AI-based technologies over the past few years, now showcasing production technologies specialized in quality control.

Hyundai Mobis plans to extend the Acoustic AI inspection system from the Changwon plant to other component production lines, prioritizing parts like braking systems that inherently generate noise due to their operational nature.

Choi Nak-Hyun, Vice President and Head of Digital Transformation at Hyundai Mobis, stated, "This initiative marks a pioneering example of process innovation not only in the automotive sector but across the global manufacturing industry. We will continue introducing differentiated AI-based technologies for production, R&D, and improvements in work environments."

- Analyzes the EPS (Electric Power Steering) Motor Sound Waveform AI Inspects Quality of One Unit Per Second

While generative AI emphasizes versatility for general users, Acoustic AI is designed for industrial applications, especially smart factories. Its primary advantage is processing large volumes of tasks in a short time. The inspection system at the Changwon plant can detect defective products at a rate of one unit per second.

The Changwon plant produces approximately 1.3 million units of EPS annually. The production process includes 23 stages, from component assembly to vibration and noise inspection.

Since EPS directly impacts steering performance and safety through the steering wheel, meticulous quality checks are essential. Noise inspections are conducted by connecting actual power to the EPS. The sound generated by the rotating motor creates a consistent waveform, which the AI analyzes to identify deviations or anomalies.

Previously, suspect defective products below a certain threshold were initially filtered by an automated system after assembly, followed by manual reevaluation by specialized personnel. To enhance quality competitiveness, Hyundai Mobis collaborated for about a year with on-site engineers, production technology experts, and AI specialists holding advanced degrees to gather and analyze data, successfully developing Acoustic AI. This system can now distinguish defective products and their causes.

Hyundai Mobis plans to validate and expand the application of Acoustic AI. In the manufacturing sector, the company aims to continuously collect meaningful data through its pioneering Acoustic AI and develop proprietary AI models based on this data. The accuracy of this trained AI is expected to improve further. (End)

About Hyundai Mobis

Hyundai Mobis is the global no. 6 automotive supplier, headquartered in Seoul, Korea. Hyundai Mobis has outstanding expertise in sensors, sensor fusion in ECUs and software development for safety control. The company's products also include various components for electrification, brakes, chassis and suspension, steering, airbags, lighting, and automotive electronics. Hyundai Mobis operates its R&D headquarters in Korea, with four technology centers in the United States, Germany, China and India. For more information, please visit the website at http://www.mobis.co.kr/

Media Contact

Choon Kee Hwang: [email protected]

Myong Sun Song: [email protected]

SOURCE Hyundai Mobis
 Read the full article on Motorious

And its all Fords fault

There are growing controversies about the new Ford Bronco, like the hardtops rattling, leaking, etc. or the EcoBoost engines suddenly giving up the ghost. You might think this is all just propaganda put out by Stellantis, GM, Toyota, etc. or these reported problems might have spooked you from buying a Bronco until all the kinks are worked out. But wait, the fun of being an early adopter goes on as clearly shown in a recent Matts Off Road Recovery video.

Listen to the latest Motorious Podcast here.

The crew, sans Matt or Rudy, take the Morvair to Sand Hollow State Park to rescue a new Ford Bronco. Instead of the shiny new Blue Oval off-roader getting stuck in some sand or something embarrassing like that, the issue was a bent tie rod. Look, it happens even to Jeeps and Land Cruisers, before anyone tells you differently, so thats not all that bad.

Where the alarming thing happens is in the preparation for the trail rescue. Eric called the local Ford dealership for a replacement tie rod and learns none are in stock. These days with materials shortages all over thats sadly not surprising. The shocking part was how he was told it would be two months before the dealer would have a tie rod in stock.

Since the sixth-generation Bronco hasnt been out all that long, the aftermarket probably isnt offering that many parts. And thats where Jeeps have a huge advantage. You can get all kinds of ridiculous mods for a Wrangler, from and angry eyes grille to a tailgate bottle opener.

Eric got creative with the trail fix, cutting the bent portion of the tie rod as well as a pipe to length and welding it onto what was left of the tie rod. Sure, its not OEM perfect but it was enough to drive the Bronco out of the remote area and to an awaiting tow truck.

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Check out the video of the rescue. It starts with the crew rescuing a stuck Nissan Xterra (the same vehicle Andy Bernard favored for a while) and finishes with a motorcycle rescue in Arizona by the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. If you want to skip straight to the Bronco rescue, go to 4:53 in the video.

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SAN FRANCISCO and SUZHOU, China, June 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Innovent Biologics, Inc. (Innovent) (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high-quality medicines for the treatment of oncology, metabolic, autoimmune, ophthalmology and other major diseases, provided updates on its oncology pipeline at an investor meeting. At several major international oncology annual meetings this year, Innovent presented clinical data on multiple cancer drug candidates, including 10 oral reports and over 15 posters. In a conference call with investors on June 17, Innovent interpreted the clinical data for these drugs in detail. The company also outlined its current R&D strategy centered on global innovation, as well as the early research mechanisms, development strategies and future directions for multiple mid- and early-stage molecular candidates in its pipeline. Innovent's Chief Financial Officer Rachel You, Senior Vice President of Oncology Development Dr. Hui Zhou, and Vice President of Oncology Biology and ADC Drug Research Dr. Kaijie He attended the meeting and made reports.

Oncology pipeline development strategy: extensively deploy "IO + ADC" to solve unmet clinical needs worldwide

Scientific and technological advancements have steadily increased cancer patient survival rates and quality of life. However, many unmet clinical needs persist in cancer treatment. These include the limited response rates to immunotherapies like PD-1, with most responses resulting in relapse or resistance. Additionally, the effectiveness of current mainstream treatment, such as anti-angiogenic drugs, remains limited. Significant unmet needs continue to drive further innovation in oncology drug development.

Innovent has built a product pipeline of 36 new drug candidates, including 22 in oncology. Utilizing a world-leading antibody technology platform, differentiated linker-payloads and deep scientific expertise in oncology, Innovent has extensively deployed a combination of immune-oncology (IO) and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). This comprehensive "IO + ADC" approach aims to drive global innovation and enhance the brand positioning for the Company's oncology pipeline, which strives to "further life's possibilities."

Key product milestones: PoC + MRCT driving the globalization of innovative therapies

The Company is progressing its innovative oncology pipeline through clinical proof-of-concept (PoC) studies and global multi-regional clinical trials (MRCT). Several high-potential molecules have now entered clinical development, including the three novel candidates IBI363, IBI343 and IBI389, which were discussed in detail on the call. Innovent also has additional bispecific antibody and ADC candidates advancing in early global clinical development.

IBI363: First-in-class PD-1/IL-2 -bias bispecific antibody fusion protein shows promising anti-tumor efficacy across multiple cancer types, including in immunotherapy-treated and 'cold' tumors, signaling the emergence of a potential next-generation IO therapy

IBI363 represents Innovent's continuous research and innovation in immuno-oncology. At this meeting, Innovent reported for the first time on IBI363's novel mechanical of action and provided updates on its clinical development progress.

Regarding its molecular design, ICI363 creatively employs an -biased approach while weakening  and  signaling, significantly improving the therapeutic window of IL-2. Through specific binding to PD-1, it can selectively stimulate and amplify tumor-specific T cells that co-express PD-1 and CD25, thereby exerting an anti-tumor effect. The novel design leverages the cytokine's activating potential while mitigating systemic toxicity.

IBI363 exhibits excellent drug-like properties, demonstrating antibody-like pharmacokinetics (IgG-like PK) and low immunogenicity. This allows for unprecedented dosing levels of IBI363 while maintaining a favorable safety profile, overcoming the toxicity concerns typically associated with IL-2 therapy.

In the Phase 1 clinical trials involving over 300 subjects, IBI363 demonstrated encouraging anti-tumor efficacy across multiple representative cancer types, including immunotherapy-treated driver gene wild-type non-small cell lung cancer, immunotherapy-treated melanoma, immunotherapy treatment-naive mucosal melanoma, and the immunologically 'cold' colorectal cancer. These results highlight IBI363's broad-spectrum anti-tumor potential across diverse tumor types and treatment settings.

Building on the encouraging clinical data, Innovent is further expanding IBI363's clinical development, including continued evaluation of the 3mg/kg high dose cohort to determine the optimal dose for subsequent studies, initiating Phase 2 trials in the United States , and exploring additional combination therapy opportunities to broaden IBI363's potential applications.

Two CLDN18.2-target based innovative technology modalities, IBI343 and IBI389, showed initial breakthrough efficacy

IBI343: Innovative TOPO1i CLDN18.2 ADC, the world's first ADC drug to show initial breakthrough efficacy in pancreatic cancer

IBI343 is a world-leading innovative TOPO1-inhibitor CLDN18.2 ADC that features an excellent molecular design utilizing world-class specific glycoconjugate technology for high in vivo stability. IBI343 binds to the Claudin 18.2-expressing tumor cells, which causes Claudin 18.2-dependent ADC internalization to occur. Meanwhile, the high potency payload (exatecan) is used with strong bystander killing effect. Notably, its Fc-silenced design mitigates ADCC-mediated gastrointestinal toxicity, ensuring a high safety profile. This integrated design positions IBI343 at the forefront of innovative CLDN18.2-targeted ADCs.

The world's first ADC single agent to show breakthrough efficacy in pancreatic cancer : Preliminary Phase 1 data of IBI343 in pancreatic cancer patients who had received at least one line of treatment showed that the objective response rate (ORR) was 40% in CLDN18.2 IHC1/2/3+60% pancreatic cancer patients (n=10) who received 6 mg/kg IBI343.

: Preliminary Phase 1 data of IBI343 in pancreatic cancer patients who had received at least one line of treatment showed that the objective response rate (ORR) was 40% in CLDN18.2 IHC1/2/3+60% pancreatic cancer patients (n=10) who received 6 mg/kg IBI343. In addition to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), IBI343 has shown strong anti-tumor effects in the treatment of late-line gastric cancer, and its Phase 3 MRCT clinical trial is under preparation.

IBI389 (anti-CLDN18.2/CD3 bispecific antibody): First-in-class T-cell engager with anti-tumor activity observed in pancreatic cancer

IBI389 is an anti-CLDN18.2 T cell-engaging bispecific antibody developed by Innovent. It induces immune synapse formations by linking CD3 molecules in T-cell receptor complexes and CLDN18.2 antigens on the surfaces of tumor cells. IBI389 stimulates T-cell activation, resulting in cytolytic protein production, inflammatory cytokine release and further T-cell proliferation, which eventually leads to durable anti-tumor effects. Preclinical results show that even in cell lines with low expression of CLDN18.2, IBI389 can still bind to tumor cells and show significant anti-tumor efficacy.

IBI389 has shown promising efficacy signals in advanced gastric and pancreatic cancers, including cases with low to medium CLDN18.2 expression. Notably, as the world's first bispecific antibody targeting CLDN18.2/CD3 to publish clinical data, IBI389 has shown significant initial anti-tumor effects in pancreatic cancer, marking a breakthrough for this innovative drug form in the field of difficult-to-treat cancers.

ASCO clinical data showed that among 27 pancreatic cancer subjects who received 600g/kg IBI389 and underwent at least one post-baseline tumor assessment, the objective response rate (ORR) was 29.6%, the confirmed objective response rate (cORR) was 25.9%, and the disease control rate (DCR) was 70.4%. Among the 18 subjects with CLDN18.2 IHC 2/3+40%, the cORR reached 38.9%.

Based on the unique advantages of IBI343 and IBI389 demonstrated in early clinical trials, Innovent is advancing the development of IBI343 for the MRCT Phase 3 clinical trial in gastric cancer. Additionally, the Company is moving forward with proof-of-concept clinical studies of both IBI343 and IBI389 in the difficulty-to-treat pancreatic cancer.

Looking ahead, Innovent will continue to advance the high-quality clinical development of its oncology product line, address unmet medical needs in cancer treatment and promote global innovation guided by its "IO + ADC" strategy.

Dr. Hui Zhou, Senior Vice President of Oncology Development at Innovent Biologics, said: "As one of the few biopharmaceutical companies with leading R&D capabilities in both IO and ADC, we possess a unique competitive advantage in next-generation oncology treatment innovations. We will adhere to our mission of empowering patients worldwide with affordable, high-quality biopharmaceuticals, aiming to benefit even more patients and support the Healthy China 2030 initiative."

Detailed sharing materials can be downloaded from the company's official website, link: https://investor.innoventbio.com/cn/investors/webcasts-and-presentations/

About Innovent Biologics:

Innovent is a leading biopharmaceutical company founded in 2011 with the mission to empower patients worldwide with affordable, high-quality biopharmaceuticals. The company discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes innovative medicines that target some of the most intractable diseases. Its pioneering therapies treat cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune and eye diseases. Innovent has launched 10 products in the market. It has 4 new drug applications under regulatory review, 4 assets in Phase III or pivotal clinical trials and 18 more molecules in early clinical stage. Innovent partners with over 30 global healthcare companies, including Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Incyte, Adimab, LG Chem and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Guided by the motto, 'Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action,' Innovent maintains the highest standard of industry practices and works collaboratively to advance the biopharmaceutical industry so that first-rate pharmaceutical drugs can become widely accessible. For more information, visit www.innoventbio.com, or follow Innovent on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Innovent Biologics, Inc. ("Innovent" or "Company"), are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. The Company 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 the Company 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 the Company'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, the Company's competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

The Company, the Directors and the employees of the Company assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained in this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialize or turn out to be incorrect.

SOURCE Innovent Biologics
HOUSTON, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Investor Loan Source is pleased to announce an expansion of our real estate lending business with the addition of Mortgage Director Minesh Brahmbhatt. This new initiative offers a variety of additional programs from external sources for short and long-term financing of commercial and investment properties.

Under the leadership of Minesh Brahmbhatt, an experienced professional with over 15 years of expertise in sourcing funding from banks, insurance companies, government programs, and other investment entities, Investor Loan Source now provides real estate investors a wider range of options to finance their projects.

Investor Loan Source, based in Houston, Texas, greatly expands suite of financing solutions for Real Estate investors. Post this

The new external loan program division of Investor Loan Source enables real estate investors to leverage all types of funding programs to fit their investment goals. Investors can finance and refinance investment properties for longer terms, secure the most competitive rates, and access capital for any type of property in any US market.

"Since our inception in 2014, we've paired a foundation of exemplary customer service with innovative financing options for real estate investors. This latest expansion continues that tradition by providing a complete suite of outside loan solutions to complement our private capital programs," says Tom Berry, Co-Founder and CEO of Investor Loan Source.

Investor Loan Source was founded in 2014 by real estate investors, Tom Berry and Donald Sutton. For over 20 years, Donald and Tom and their staff members have been investing in residential, storage, commercial, retail, and other real estate markets. Their extensive experience in real estate and deep understanding of investor needs have supported a decade-long track record of delivering innovative solutions that build wealth for real estate investors.

About Investor Loan Source

Investor Loan Source is dedicated to real estate investors. We're investors ourselves and pride ourselves on serving as the Go-To lending source for real estate investors. We have a highly trained staff that's committed to helping you meet your goals. We will answer any questions and guide you through the lending process - whether you are buying and rehabbing your first property or are a seasoned real estate investor. We believe in helping our clients build wealth through real estate and helping investors finance their projects quickly and efficiently.

For more information on our expanded suite of funding solutions, please contact us at 409.735.6267 or visit us at www.ils.cash.

SOURCE Investor Loan Source
MIAMI, June 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Headquarter Toyota, a family-owned dealership serving South Florida for over 30 years, celebrated Chantal G. Osborne, the 2024 Miami-Dade Public Schools Principal of the Year, by presenting her with the keys to a new Toyota Corolla during a ceremony at their Hialeah facility. The car, with a 3-year lease, was generously donated by Headquarter Toyota to honor Osborne's exceptional contributions to education.

Chantal G. Osborne, Alexandra Esteve Ruge, and Judy L. Farcus Serra

Since 2021, Osborne has led Lindsey Hopkins Technical College (LHTC), serving over 2,300 students in various technical programs. Under her leadership, LHTC boasts a job placement rate of 91% and a licensure rate of 100%.

"Today, we celebrate not only Chantal Osborne's achievements but also her unwavering dedication to shaping future generations through education," said Alexandra Esteve, Chief Marketing Officer of Headquarter Toyota. "As a family-owned business deeply rooted in South Florida, we are honored to recognize educators like Chantal, who make a profound impact on the lives of those who will become future business owners, executives, and leaders in our community."

Osborne's commitment has been evident throughout her career. She was also named the 2006-2007 Miami-Dade County Public Schools Teacher of the Year while at Jose Marti Middle School in Hialeah. Her impact has resonated in Miami-Dade County's educational landscape.

"It is a privilege to be recognized with this generous gift by Headquarter Toyota and to receive this incredible honor by Miami-Dade County Public Schools and the Dade Association of School Administrators," said Osborne. "As educators, our mission is to provide a supportive learning environment that equips students with the practical skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary for success. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of my students."

Since 1990, Headquarter Toyota has served over three million customers, earning recognition as the largest Hispanic-owned dealership in the U.S. Known for exceptional customer service and performance, Headquarter Toyota consistently ranks among the top 1% of Toyota dealerships nationwide.

The ceremony, held at the Headquarter Toyota showroom, was attended by Dade Association of School Administrators Executive Director Jorge L. Garcia and President Dr. Heather Tyler, marking another significant moment in Osborne's career as she received the keys to her new Toyota Corolla from Esteve.

For more information, contact Judy Serra at [email protected] or visit https://www.headquartertoyota.com/ .

SOURCE Headquarter Toyota
Report from MPOWER Financing concludes with a call to action for Canadian academic institutions and policymakers to enhance the international student recruitment experience and reform the study permit process.

TORONTO, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MPOWER Financing ("MPOWER"), a mission-driven fintech firm and the leader in international student financing, today released a comprehensive report on Canadian study permit approval rates for students from around the world across different levels of education. This report, which analyzes data from Immigration, Refugees, Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and other sources, found that African students  especially those from Francophone nations  encounter formidable barriers in securing Canadian study permits.

The report shows consistently lower study permit acceptance rates for African students relative to their global peers and advocates for a recalibration of Canada's study permit adjudication processes to foster greater equity and inclusivity.

The report's key findings include:

African students face consistently lower study permit approval rates when compared with their global peers (27% for African students versus 74% for students from other nations on average over the six-year period from 2018-2023). Francophone African students, in particular, are disproportionately affected with approval rates lagging behind those from non-Francophone regions (22% versus 29%).

The 2020 pandemic resulted in sharply reduced approval rates for all students, both African and non-African. A post-2020 recovery reveals the pace of improvement remains uneven across different African regions.

Lower approval rates for African students represent a significant missed opportunity for students and Canadian academic institutions. From 2018-2023, over 46,000 African postgraduate students were sidelined due to study permit approval processes that are seemingly stacked against them.

The report concludes with a call to action for Canadian academic institutions, Global Affairs Canada and IRCC to enhance the international student recruitment experience and the study permit adjudication process to remedy inequities and enhance the credibility of the program.

"At MPOWER, we believe in breaking down barriers to education," said Sasha Ramani, head of Canada and head of Corporate Strategy at MPOWER Financing. "The disparities identified not only deprive bright minds of opportunities, but also deprives Canada of tens of thousands of talented minds and billions of dollars worth of economic contributions. We look forward to continuing working with Canadian policymakers to advise them on enhancements to the study permit program and with Canadian postsecondary institutions seeking to grow and diversify their international student populations."

The report can be downloaded from MPOWER's website .

About MPOWER Financing

Headquartered in Washington, D.C., and with employees worldwide, MPOWER Financing is a mission-driven fintech company and the leading provider of global education loans. Its proprietary algorithm analyzes overseas and domestic credit data as well as future earning potential to serve promising international students. MPOWER works with over 400 top universities across the U.S. and Canada to provide financing to students from over 200 countries. The MPOWER team primarily consists of former international students and provides students with personal financial education and career support to prepare them for their professional careers after graduation.

MPOWER is a Certified B-Corp and has been named a Great Place To Work , one of the best fintechs to work for and the best tech workplace for diversity . The company is hiring for various positions worldwide.

SOURCE MPOWER Financing
Parks Associates to present multifamily and multi-dwelling housing research at upcoming Apartmentalize and Smart Spaces industry events

DALLAS, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Parks Associates will present multifamily housing research at two upcoming events, including this week at Apartmentalize, hosted by the National Apartment Association, following by the Smart Spaces virtual session "Smart Living: Attracting and Retaining Residents" on July 23.

Parks Associates Parks Associates

At Apartmentalize, Jennifer Kent , VP, Research, Parks Associates, is speaking on the session "Seamless Connectivity: Where in the WiFi is Waldo?" on June 21 , in Philadelphia, PA , starting at 1 PM .





, VP, Research, Parks Associates, is speaking on the session "Seamless Connectivity: Where in the WiFi is Waldo?" on , in , starting at . Kent and Kristen Hanich , Director of Research, Parks Associates, will host the virtual session "Smart Living: Attracting and Retaining Residents" on July 23 , 11 AM CT , featuring a visionary keynote from Thomas Stanchak , Managing Director of Sustainability, Stoneweg US. Then a panel discussion will cover smart living solutions, from automated home systems to AI-driven amenities, and their impact on resident satisfaction and loyalty.

Parks Associates' latest research finds a high interest in energy systems and services among MDU property owners and managers, with 69% showing interest in a backup power service and 56% showing a high interest in a generator for backup power during outages.

"Smart building solutions can create innumerable benefits to multifamily properties, provided the deployment and ongoing support are planned correctly for each property," said Elizabeth Parks, President and CMO, Parks Associates. "These discussions with key executives and stakeholders at Apartmentalize and Smart Spaces are key to share case studies, consumer research, and best practices so that we can maximize the potential for smart solutions in the MDU space."

Parks Associates recently released the white paper "Smart Tech for Multifamily Properties: Understanding ROI," in partnership with SKBM, with insights from interviews with leading multifamily owners, operators, and management companies. In this white paper, properties report a 20% efficiency boost and 10% fewer maintenance requests after installing smart door locks and electronic access control systems.

Parks Associates will host sessions for the second annual Smart Spaces: Apartments, Hospitality, and Community Living throughout 2024. The in-person conference takes place September 24-25, 2024, at the Renaissance Dallas Richardson Hotel in Richardson, Texas, with virtual sessions on March 21, July 23, and December 12. Smart Spaces sponsors include ADT Multifamily, Vantiva, Nice, Cox Communities, Xfinity Communities, Kwikset, Homebase, Calix, Dojo Networks, and Salto.

To schedule an interview with an analyst or to request specific data, please contact Mindi Sue Sternblitz-Rubenstein at [email protected] or 972-490-1113.

About Parks Associates

Parks Associates, a woman-founded and certified business, is an internationally recognized market research and consulting company specializing in emerging consumer technology products and services. Founded in 1986, Parks Associates provides business intelligence and research services through its proprietary methodologies developed over decades, including quarterly surveys of 10,000 internet households.

The company's expertise crosses many industries: home security and smart home, streaming video, broadband and pay-TV services, digital media and platforms, gaming, Wi-Fi and home networks, connected health, support, consumer electronics, home control systems, energy management, and tech solutions for the multi-dwelling (MDU), small-to-medium business (SMB), and commercial building markets.

Each year, Parks Associates brings thousands of leaders together for its webinars and annual events. The firm hosts the annual executive research and strategy conferences CONNECTIONS, Connected Health Summit, Smart Energy Summit, Smart Spaces, and Future of Video. https://www.parksassociates.com

Follow Parks Associates on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Mindi Sue Sternblitz-Rubenstein

Parks Associates

972.490.1113

[email protected]

SOURCE Parks Associates
PHOENIX, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Phoenix Injury Lawyer Secures $80,000 Settlement for Child Hurt at Department Store.

In a recent case, Super Woman Super Lawyer , Phoenix's preeminent injury lawyer, secured an $80,000 settlement for a four-year-old minor injured while playing in a clothing carousel at a local Marshalls store. The incident, in which the child was cut by a hanger, resulted in significant emotional and physical trauma.

Phoenix Injury Lawyer, Super Woman Super Lawyer, Secures $80,000 Settlement for Child Hurt at Department Store

Super Woman Super Lawyer and her team of diverse injury attorneys took on the case with determination and skill, navigating the complexities of personal injury law to achieve justice for their young client. The settlement not only addressed the physical harm suffered by the child but also recognized the emotional distress experienced by the mother, who witnessed the accident. Despite facing significant comparative liability challenges due to alleged lack of supervision, Super Woman Super Lawyer and her team successfully secured an additional $5,000 for the mother. This aspect of the settlement highlights Super Woman Super Lawyer's comprehensive approach to advocacy, ensuring that all facets of the trauma are acknowledged and compensated.

This Phoenix injury case underscores Super Woman Super Lawyer's standing as the nation's best children's injury lawyer , a title she has earned through relentless advocacy and numerous successful verdicts and settlements. Her team's ability to overcome obstacles and secure rightful compensation highlights their dedication and proficiency in handling sensitive cases involving minors.

"Our goal has always been to fight for the rights of injured children and their families, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve," Super Woman Super Lawyer stated. "This settlement is a testament to our commitment to supporting victims and holding negligent parties accountable."

Super Woman Super Lawyer's team of Phoenix injury attorneys utilized their extensive experience in representing injured minors and their families to navigate the legal hurdles, ultimately leading to this victory for the injured child. Each attorney brought their unique expertise to the table, contributing to a well-rounded and comprehensive legal strategy.

This recent victory adds to Super Woman Super Lawyer's impressive record, reinforcing her reputation as a staunch defender of children's rights. Families in Phoenix and beyond can trust that under her representation, their cases will be handled with the utmost care, competence, and compassion.

For more information about Super Woman Super Lawyer and her team of injury attorneys, visit her law firm's website or contact her office directly.

About Super Woman Super Lawyer:

Super Woman Super Lawyer is the best injury lawyer in Phoenix, AZ , known for her tireless advocacy and exceptional track record in securing favorable outcomes for her clients.

SOURCE Super Woman Super Lawyer
NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global plate and frame heat exchangers market size is estimated to grow by USD 1.42 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.36% during the forecast period. Rising demand for plate and frame heat exchangers from end-users is driving market growth, with a trend towards expansion and addition of new manufacturing capacities. However, fouling of heat exchangers poses a challenge. Key market players include Advanced Industrial Components Inc., Alfa Laval AB, American Plate Exchanger, API Heat Transfer Inc., Avingtrans plc, Baffles cooling systems, Danfoss AS, Dover Corp., FISCHER Maschinen u. Apparatebau GmbH, FUNKE Warmeaustauscher Apparatebau GmbH, Hisaka Works Ltd., ITT Inc., Kelvion Holding GmbH, Paul Mueller Co. Inc., Process Engineers And Associates, S.A. Armstrong Ltd., SPX FLOW Inc., Taco Comfort Solutions, Thermaline Inc., and Xylem Inc..

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global plate and frame heat exchangers market 2024-2028

Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies - Click for the snapshot of this report

Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered End-user (Chemical, Power, HVAC, Refrigeration, and Oil and gas and others), Type (Gasketed, Welded, and Brazed), and Geography (Europe, North America, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America) Region Covered Europe, North America, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America Key companies profiled Advanced Industrial Components Inc., Alfa Laval AB, American Plate Exchanger, API Heat Transfer Inc., Avingtrans plc, Baffles cooling systems, Danfoss AS, Dover Corp., FISCHER Maschinen u. Apparatebau GmbH, FUNKE Warmeaustauscher Apparatebau GmbH, Hisaka Works Ltd., ITT Inc., Kelvion Holding GmbH, Paul Mueller Co. Inc., Process Engineers And Associates, S.A. Armstrong Ltd., SPX FLOW Inc., Taco Comfort Solutions, Thermaline Inc., and Xylem Inc.

Key Market Trends Fueling Growth

The Plate and Frame Heat Exchangers Market witnesses organic growth strategies from key vendors. Through tactics like SEO, content marketing, social media engagement, and email campaigns, they build brand awareness, engage leads, and foster long-term customer relationships. Alfa Laval's April 2024 expansion of their production line for printed circuit heat exchangers is an example. These strategies promote trust, credibility, and market growth during the forecast period.

The Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective heat transfer solutions. These exchangers are widely used in various industries such as power generation, refining, and manufacturing. The use of renewable energy sources and the shift towards cleaner technologies are driving the market. The market is also witnessing advancements in materials and designs, leading to higher performance and longer service life. Additionally, the growing trend towards energy conservation and sustainability is further boosting the market. Overall, the Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger market is expected to continue its strong growth trajectory in the coming years.

Research report provides comprehensive data on impact of trend. For more details- Download a Sample Report

Market Challenges

Plate and frame heat exchangers face significant challenges with maintenance and cleaning due to fouling. Fouling is the accumulation of unwanted deposits on heat transfer surfaces, reducing efficiency and increasing pressure drop. Reasons for fouling include crystallization, particulate matter, biological growth, and chemical reactions. Corrosion from reactive fluids can also contribute to fouling. Inefficient heat exchangers may lead to production cost increases, potential shutdowns, and early metal replacement, resulting in additional expenses for operators. These high maintenance costs may hinder the growth of the global plate and frame heat exchangers market.

The Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger market faces several challenges. One key challenge is the increasing demand for energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions. This requires continuous research and development to improve the design and performance of these heat exchangers. Another challenge is the need to comply with stringent regulations regarding safety and environmental impact. Procurement of materials and components also poses a challenge due to the complexity of the system and the need for high-quality and durable parts. Additionally, the market is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. This necessitates a focus on innovation, customer service, and cost competitiveness to remain competitive. Finally, the global nature of the market adds complexity, with varying regulations and market conditions in different regions.

For more insights on driver and challenges - Download a Sample Report

Segment Overview

This plate and frame heat exchangers market report extensively covers market segmentation by

End-user

1.1 Chemical

1.2 Power

1.3 HVAC

1.4 Refrigeration

1.5 Oil and gas and others

Type

2.1 Gasketed

2.2 Welded

2.3 Brazed

Geography

3.1 Europe

3.2 North America

3.3 APAC

3.4 Middle East and Africa

and 3.5 South America

1.1 Chemical- The Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger market is thriving due to its efficiency in heat transfer applications. These exchangers offer cost-effective solutions for various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. Their modular design allows for easy maintenance and flexibility in operation. The market is expected to grow steadily, driven by increasing demand for energy savings and improved process efficiency.

For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) - Download a Sample Report

Research Analysis

The Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing focus on energy efficiency and versatility in various industries. Urbanization and the expansion of commercial buildings in developing economies are driving the demand for these heat exchangers in HVAC systems and commercial refrigeration. Heat recovery technologies, used extensively in HVACR applications, are a key area of application for plate and frame heat exchangers. Compact designs of these exchangers are ideal for residential AC units and industrial activities, making them essential engineering applications for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Environmental regulations and the shift towards sustainable energy infrastructure are also contributing to the market's growth. The nuclear power sector and other energy infrastructure projects are significant consumers of plate and frame heat exchangers due to their high thermal efficiency.

Market Research Overview

The Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger market encompasses the production, sales, and installation of these heat transfer solutions. These exchangers utilize thin plates and frames to facilitate efficient heat transfer between two fluids without direct contact. They are widely used in various industries such as oil and gas, power generation, and chemical processing. The market is driven by factors like increasing energy efficiency requirements, rising demand for thermal energy, and advancements in materials and technologies. Plate and Frame Heat Exchangers offer benefits like high heat transfer rates, easy maintenance, and flexibility in design. Applications include cooling, heating, and vaporization processes. The market is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions and the need for cost-effective heat transfer systems.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

End-user

Chemical



Power



HVAC



Refrigeration



Oil And Gas And Others

Type

Gasketed



Welded



Brazed

Geography

Europe



North America



APAC



Middle East And Africa



South America



7 Customer Landscape

8 Geographic Landscape

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10 Company Landscape

11 Company Analysis

12 Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global police and military simulation training market size is estimated to grow by USD 5.38 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.78% during the forecast period. Cost-effective virtual training is driving market growth, with a trend towards education via ste. However, high investments required for simulation systems poses a challenge. Key market players include Arotech, Ascent Flight Training Holdings, BAE Systems Plc, Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Bohemia Interactive Simulations ks, Cubic Corp., General Dynamics Mission Systems Inc., H SIM, Indra Sistemas SA, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd., Kratos Defense and Security Solutions Inc., L3Harris Technologies Inc., Lockheed Martin Corp., Meggitt Plc, Northrop Grumman Corp., RTX Corp., Rheinmetall AG, Saab AB, and Virtra Inc.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global police and military simulation training market 2024-2028

Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report

Police And Military Simulation Training Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 6.78% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 5383.9 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 6.23 Regional analysis North America, APAC, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution North America at 42% Key countries US, UK, China, Germany, and Canada Key companies profiled Arotech, Ascent Flight Training Holdings, BAE Systems Plc, Berkshire Hathaway Inc., Bohemia Interactive Simulations ks, Cubic Corp., General Dynamics Mission Systems Inc., H SIM, Indra Sistemas SA, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd., Kratos Defense and Security Solutions Inc., L3Harris Technologies Inc., Lockheed Martin Corp., Meggitt Plc, Northrop Grumman Corp., RTX Corp., Rheinmetall AG, Saab AB, and Virtra Inc

Market Driver

The Police and Military Simulation Training Market is experiencing significant growth due to advanced technologies like STE and Dynamic Synthetic Environments (DSE). STE offers combined-arms training by replicating various platforms and complex operating environments, enhancing cognitive, physical, and social elements. DSE, built on the Open Geospatial Consortium Common Database, provides a constantly changing and evolving synthetic environment for military personnel to acquire essential skills. Real-time database modifications based on trainee actions make these simulations more accurate and realistic, fueling market growth.

The simulation training market for police and military is experiencing significant growth. This market includes products for tactical training, digital simulation, and practical exercises. Trends in this sector include the use of virtual reality and artificial intelligence. These technologies enable more realistic and effective training scenarios. Comprehensive training programs cover various areas such as communication, marksmanship, and crisis management. Companies offer customizable solutions to meet specific client needs. The ultimate goal is to prepare professionals for real-life situations, ensuring public safety and security.

Research report provides comprehensive data on impact of trend. For more details- Download a Sample Report

Market Challenges

The police and military simulation training market has experienced cost reduction due to COTS and SWaP requirements. However, high operational costs persist, including installation expenses for space, infrastructure, personnel, and maintenance. These training academies, often located in urban areas, incur additional costs from trainee movement. Simulator units, especially military ones, are expensive, totaling a few million dollars, and certification costs add to the expense. Collectively, these high costs may hinder market growth during the forecast period.

The Police and Military Simulation Training market faces several challenges. These include the need for advanced technology in creating realistic training environments, ensuring effective communication and coordination between teams, and providing comprehensive training programs that cover various scenarios. Additionally, budget constraints and the need for continuous updates to keep up with emerging threats require innovative solutions. The use of virtual and augmented reality technologies, cloud-based platforms, and artificial intelligence are some potential ways to address these challenges and enhance the overall effectiveness of simulation training.

For more insights on driver and challenges - Request a sample report!

Segment Overview

This police and military simulation training market report extensively covers market segmentation by

Product

1.1 Flight

1.2 Combat

1.3 Maritime

Application

2.1 Air

2.2 Naval

2.3 Ground

Geography

3.1 North America

3.2 APAC

3.3 Europe

3.4 Middle East and Africa

and 3.5 South America



1.1 Flight- The global police and military simulation training market is experiencing growth due to increasing procurement of new and upgraded aircraft. Flight simulators, a key component of this market, provide pilots with realistic training experiences. These simulators come in two types: full-flight and flight simulation training devices. Full-flight simulators replicate an airplane cockpit, while FSTDs mimic the cockpit controls. Training in these simulators enhances pilots' skills and keeps them updated with advanced technologies. Major military aircraft deals are driving market expansion, making it a significant investment area for countries looking to modernize their aviation sectors.

For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report

Research Analysis

The Police and Military Simulation Training market encompasses the development and deployment of applications for serving various sectors. This market caters to commercial needs, particularly in the areas of aviation and land segments. Product pricing is a crucial factor, as is understanding buying behavior in these sectors. Political and social scenarios significantly impact the market dynamics. System component providers play a vital role in supplying digital battlefield products, including virtual pilot training for unmanned aerial systems. Strict regulatory approvals are necessary for these applications, making the process challenging. Maintenance crew training is essential for military fleets, with education via STE (Science, Technology, Engineering) and advanced tools like 3D simulation and portable simulators. Upcoming trends include head-worn VR systems and promotions to boost market growth.

Market Research Overview

The Police and Military Simulation Training market encompasses the development, implementation, and delivery of training programs that utilize simulated environments to prepare personnel for real-world scenarios. These simulations can include various facets such as tactical operations, crisis management, digital forensics, and regulatory compliance. The benefits of simulation training are numerous, including cost savings, increased safety, and the ability to train in complex and dynamic situations that may be difficult or impossible to replicate in real life. The use of technology, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, further enhances the realism and effectiveness of these training programs. The global market for Police and Military Simulation Training is expected to grow significantly in the coming years due to increasing demand for advanced and immersive training solutions.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

Product

Flight



Combat



Maritime

Application

Air



Naval



Ground

Geography

North America



APAC



Europe



Middle East And Africa



South America



7 Customer Landscape

8 Geographic Landscape

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10 Company Landscape

11 Company Analysis

12 Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
SECAUCUS, N.J., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (NYSE: DGX), a leader in diagnostic information services, announced that it will report second quarter 2024 financial results on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, before the market opens. It will hold its quarterly conference call to discuss the results beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on that day.

The conference call can be accessed by dialing 888-455-0391 within the U.S. and Canada, or 773-756-0467 internationally, using the passcode: "7895081." The earnings release and live webcast will be posted on www.QuestDiagnostics.com/investor. The company suggests participants dial in approximately 10 minutes before the call.

A replay of the call may be accessed online at www.QuestDiagnostics.com/investor or by phone at 866-363-1805 for domestic callers or 203-369-0193 for international callers; no passcode is required. Telephone replays will be available from approximately 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time on July 23, 2024 until midnight Eastern Time on August 6, 2024.

Anyone listening to the call is encouraged to read the company's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the discussion of risk factors and historical results of operations and financial condition in those reports.

About Quest Diagnostics

Quest Diagnostics works across the healthcare ecosystem to create a healthier world, one life at a time. We provide diagnostic insights from the results of our laboratory testing to empower people, physicians and organizations to take action to improve health outcomes. Derived from one of the world's largest databases of de-identifiable clinical lab results, Quest's diagnostic insights reveal new avenues to identify and treat disease, inspire healthy behaviors and improve healthcare management. Quest Diagnostics annually serves one in three adult Americans and half the physicians and hospitals in the United States, and our nearly 50,000 employees understand that, in the right hands and with the right context, our diagnostic insights can inspire actions that transform lives and create a healthier world. www.QuestDiagnostics.com.

SOURCE Quest Diagnostics
DETROIT, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- World Refugee Awareness Day is on Thurs., June 20 and Samaritas is using this day to honor the economic contributions of refugees, who contribute $295 million annually to Michigan's economy. This World Refugee Day, Michigan companies in need of well-trained workers are encouraged to partner with Samaritas to find candidates with a strong desire to succeed. Samaritas' new talent recruitment portal makes it easy for companies to collaborate with the agency and recruit new talent.

"Anida Sabanovic, Comerica Vice President and Chair of the Samaritas 90th Anniversary Ripples Gala, shares the story of her journey to America, her resilient spirit, and her passion for giving back to the refugee community."

"Refugees bring innovation, diversity, and entrepreneurial spirit to our communities, enhancing our state's culture and driving economic growth," said Mihaela Mitrofan, Director of Samaritas New Americans. "We've served refugees for nearly 100 years and will continue this work so that our economy can grow. Samaritas is here to help match the talents and expertise of our refugee clients with employment needs."

In fact, Michigan's League for Public Policy reveals that in 2024, for every 1,000 newly arrived immigrant workers, the projected increase in local and state tax revenue in the first year is approximately $1.6 million. After about 5 years, it's projected to be $2.5 million.

As Michigan's leading refugee resettlement agency, Samaritas understands the challenging journey refugees undertake, often fleeing persecution or violence. Without the option to 'go back home' Samaritas steps in to prepare refugees with programs to seamlessly integrate them into Michigan's workforce with in-demand skills to get them ready for work on day one. The agency also works closely with employment recruiters on paperwork and other critical logistics to help speed up the hiring process.

"Samaritas does a great job with training and cutting the bureaucracy to get them job-ready," said Joyce Sanders of Northgate Construction. "The Samaritas refugee clients are hardworking and reliable. We are happy to have them on board."

The list of employers collaborating with Samaritas to augment their workforce with refugee workers includes Northgate and Amplitude Staffing, but the agency is looking for others to help its clients achieve independence and contribute to Michigan's economy.

Visit Samaritas.org/newamericans to consider fostering, mentoring, or donating to build hope and opportunity for refugees to rebuild their lives.

SOURCE Samaritas
LOS ANGELESThe Woodhull Freedom Foundation and the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) today filed an amicus brief supporting the LGBTQ+ dating platform Grindr in a federal lawsuit that was initially brought against the parent company of the app by a teenager referred to as "John Doe" in the case.

The case is John Doe v. Grindr Inc. et al., which was initially filed before the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. U.S. District Judge Otis Wright dismissed the lawsuit, citing that Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996 immunized the platform from the acts of third-party users due to the safe harbor in the law.

Doe alleged design defects in the mobile app that permitted him, when he was 15 years old, to create an account to meet adults for a sexual liaison. Hailing from Canada, John Doe said that he was sexually assaulted by four men he met on the app. Judge Wright recognized the tragedy of Doe's assaults but barred action against Grindr due to Section 230.

Counsel for John Doe appealed the case to the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, seeking to overturn Judge Wright's dismissal of the case. However, lawyers representing Woodhull and EFF felt compelled to file an amicus brief pressing the Ninth Circuit to continue to affirm Section 230's safe harbor provision that virtually all web platforms, including porn sites, rely on.

"It is impossible to discuss this case without first recognizing the heartbreaking trauma that Doe suffered when he met with four men that he encountered while on Grindr," said Ricci Levy, president of the Woodhull Freedom Foundation. "Trials were held, and three men are serving time in jail for the sexual assaults. But those assaults arent what this case is about."

Woodhull's general counsel, Larry Walters of the Walters Law Group, joined attorneys from EFF and the law firm Cooley LLP, in San Francisco, Calif., in filing the amicus brief.

"The district courts decision to dismiss this case was a straightforward and sound application of Section 230, notwithstanding the troubling nature of the third-party conduct alleged," reads the amicus brief.

"In seeking to reverse the district courts decision here, [the] plaintiff would have this court narrow Section 230s protections and erode the significant benefits Congress sought in enacting the statute. This court should decline the invitation, which would conflict with the mandate of Congress and would seriously harm online platforms, speech, and communities."

Other major litigation that would impact Section 230 includes the pair of NetChoice cases currently before the U.S. Supreme Court. AVN previously reported on these cases and how they could significantly change existing internet case law that governs Section 230 and the First Amendment online.
The 12th meeting of JADPRO Live, an annual educational conference for oncology advanced practitioners, kicks off November 14 at the Gaylord Texan in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

TAMPA, Fla., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- JADPRO Live, the leading educational conference for oncology advanced practitioners (APs), will take place from November 14 through 17 at the Gaylord Texan Resort Hotel & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas. Welcoming more than 1,600 attendees, including oncology nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, and advanced degree nurses, JADPRO Live, organized by Conexiant (formerly BroadcastMed), is the highlight of the year for education, networking opportunities, and elevation of the advanced practice role.

The 12th meeting of JADPRO Live, the premier CE-accredited event for oncology advanced practitioners, November 14 at the Gaylord Texan in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Over 30 CE-accredited sessions offering more than 25 CE credits/hours feature leaders in oncology and hematology exploring the latest advancements in cancer care, multidisciplinary approaches to patient care, and AP-led initiatives to enhance patients' quality of life. Beyond the educational sessions, JADPRO Live encourages the exchange of ideas with numerous networking events and opportunities. Educational sessions on the Main Stage will be livestreamed, and all will be available shortly after the conference concludes and available for viewing until the end of the year.

"I'm excited to welcome our continually growing community of oncology APs at this year's JADPRO Live," said Steven Wei, EdD, MPH, MS, PA-C, DFAAPA, this year's Conference Chair and APP manager at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. "Our collective commitment to advancing the highest standards of patient care is evident by the outstanding work our attendees present, sessions they lead, and collaborative partnerships that are formed."

The theme of this year's meeting is "Gateway to Excellence," which underscores the ever-higher standards of patient care and innovation in oncology that shape the field.

New this year, a surgical oncology track will cover optimizing surgical outcomes, imaging, and multimodal management. Also, attendees can choose from eight pre-conference workshops on Thursday, November 14, for hands-on learning. The exhibit hall will house valuable industry resources and a poster hall showcasing clinical, industry encore, and patient perspective posters.

The APSHO Clinical submission deadline is August 1, 2024. The Industry Encore and Patient Advocacy submission deadline is September 4, 2024. Visit https://jadprolive.com/abstracts/ for more information.

For exhibit and sponsorship information, visit https://jadprolive.com/exhibits-and-sponsorships-overview/.

JADPRO Live draws inspiration from the Journal of the Advanced Practitioner in Oncology (JADPRO), a peer-reviewed publication by Conexiant. The company specializes in creating educational resources tailored for nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, and other advanced practitioners in the fields of oncology and hematology.

JADPRO Live is held in conjunction with the annual meeting of the Advanced Practitioner Society for Hematology and Oncology (APSHO), a society of more than 5,800 specialized advanced practitioner clinicians who are on the front lines of caring for patients with cancer.

Registration for JADPRO Live is now open, and attendees are encouraged to secure their spots early to take advantage of early bird discounts. For more information and to register, please visit JADPROLive.com.

About JADPRO Live

JADPRO Live is the premier conference for advanced practitioners in oncology, featuring education targeted toward higher-level thinking and practical application in the patient setting. This year's meeting will take place from November 14 through 17 in Grapevine, Texas.

About APSHO

The Advanced Practitioner Society for Hematology and Oncology (APSHO) is a society for nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, and advanced degree nurses. The mission of APSHO is to improve the quality of care for patients with cancer by supporting critical issues in educational, clinical, and professional development for advanced practitioners in hematology and oncology.

About Conexiant

Conexiant is a premier global healthcare destination, renowned for its trusted clinical content, extensive audience engagement, and comprehensive educational library. The integrated platform, encompassing digital solutions, events, learning, and publications, fosters enhanced dialogue, connectivity, and outcomes for over 2.6 million healthcare practitioners and those looking to engage with them. Conexiant builds a community of the largest and most sought-after healthcare audiences, leveraging an industry-leading portfolio of brands and solutions. By driving effective marketing, education, and engagement strategies, clients are empowered to reach their target audience and maximize their return on investment. For more information, visit https://conexiant.com/.

SOURCE Conexiant
LOS ANGELES, June 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Resecurity (USA), a global leader in cybersecurity solutions serving major Fortune 500 companies and government agencies, is excited to announce the rollout of its innovative Digital Identity Protection (IDP) solution in Singapore. Being one of the major financial and trade hubs in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, Singapore remains an attractive target for cybercriminals, nation-state actors, and cyber espionage groups. In response to the rising tide of data breaches and identity theft, Resecurity's IDP is designed to help individuals and organizations in Singapore defend their digital identities against new and evolving cyber threats.

The urgency for enhanced digital identity protection has intensified due to recent data leaks and money laundering incidents involving compromised Singpass accounts available for sale on the Dark Web (trusted digital identity for easy and secure access to over 2,000 government and private sector services online in Singapore) impacting both consumers and businesses, underscoring the necessity of robust cybersecurity measures to thwart unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Resecurity has been a pioneer in aiding organizations to identify and combat cybersecurity threats targeting digital identity. Its latest update of IDP solution is set to transform the digital identity protection landscape in Singapore. By utilizing cutting-edge technology and real-time threat intelligence, Resecurity's IDP solution offers a comprehensive defense mechanism to monitor, detect, and counteract risks related to identity theft and unauthorized access to personal information.

Key features of Resecurity's IDP solution include:

Advanced Monitoring Capabilities: Persistent monitoring of digital footprints across online and social media platforms to detect unauthorized access or suspicious activities involving individual identities. This feature harnesses the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sophisticated data science, enabling the detection and identification of user impersonation, as well as the flagging of malicious content such as phishing emails and spam. Additionally, the monitoring solution employs AI and data science to perform risk scoring, providing a thorough assessment of identity risks, including credit risk, identity risk, and other potential threats.

Persistent monitoring of digital footprints across online and social media platforms to detect unauthorized access or suspicious activities involving individual identities. This feature harnesses the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sophisticated data science, enabling the detection and identification of user impersonation, as well as the flagging of malicious content such as phishing emails and spam. Additionally, the monitoring solution employs AI and data science to perform risk scoring, providing a thorough assessment of identity risks, including credit risk, identity risk, and other potential threats. Real-Time Threat Intelligence: Integration with Resecurity's proprietary threat intelligence platform to deliver users timely alerts and actionable insights into emerging cyber threats targeting personal information. Threat intelligence encompasses monitoring of Dark Web activities, which identify potential threats to user identity. This also includes indicators of new data breaches, such as stolen credit card numbers or exposed passwords, as well as threat actor chatter and fake social media profiles targeting user identity.

Integration with Resecurity's proprietary threat intelligence platform to deliver users timely alerts and actionable insights into emerging cyber threats targeting personal information. Threat intelligence encompasses monitoring of Dark Web activities, which identify potential threats to user identity. This also includes indicators of new data breaches, such as stolen credit card numbers or exposed passwords, as well as threat actor chatter and fake social media profiles targeting user identity. Proactive Risk Mitigation: Application of machine learning algorithms and behavioral analysis techniques to pinpoint potential threats and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data before any damage occurs. The solution supports seamless integration with Single Sign-On (SSO), Active Directory (AD), Office 365, and other essential systems managing user identities, such as LDAP directories or cloud-based identity management platforms.

Application of machine learning algorithms and behavioral analysis techniques to pinpoint potential threats and prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data before any damage occurs. The solution supports seamless integration with Single Sign-On (SSO), Active Directory (AD), Office 365, and other essential systems managing user identities, such as LDAP directories or cloud-based identity management platforms. User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive dashboard for individuals and businesses to manage and monitor their digital identities effectively, featuring customizable alerts and notifications for added convenience. The solution is also available as a mobile application on the Apple Store and Google Play Marketplace.

Ben Ouano, Chief Operating Officer (COO) APAC of Resecurity, emphasized the company's dedication to providing cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions to its clients in Singapore. He stated, "At Resecurity, we understand the critical importance of protecting digital identities in today's interconnected world. By introducing our IDP solution in Singapore, we aim to enable individuals and organizations to proactively safeguard their personal information and mitigate the risks of identity theft and cyber fraud."

For more information about Resecurity's Digital Identity Protection solution and other cybersecurity offerings, please visit Resecurity.

About Resecurity

Resecurity is a cybersecurity company that delivers a unified platform for endpoint protection, risk management, and cyber threat intelligence. 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 as 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.
SAN FRANCISCO, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- RestoringVision, a global nonprofit committed to solving the global vision crisis, is proud to announce its role as a Changemaker Sponsor of the 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE Mexico conference, organized by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) from 25-27 June. This is the annual conference that brings together the global eye health community.

During the conference, RestoringVision's CEO, Dr. Pelin Munis, will chair a key session: "Scaling Up Refractive Error Services". This session will convene a panel of global experts who will provide an in-depth exploration of the global vision crisis, identifying key drivers and presenting scalable, cost-effective solutions with high impact. Participants will also learn about opportunities to accelerate progress towards the WHO SPECS 2030 goals, aiming to increase refractive error coverage by 40%.

RestoringVision will also convene a pre-conference side meeting titled, "Solving Presbyopia at Scale: Accelerating Achievement of Global Refractive Error Goals," to shine a spotlight on this naturally occurring eye condition that makes up more than 80% of the global vision crisis. In addition, RestoringVision and its partners will also be presenting during sessions on Systems Leadership in Eye Health and Healthy Ageing.

"We are honored to be a part of the IAPB 2030 IN SIGHT LIVE Mexico conference," said Pelin Munis, Ph.D., CEO of RestoringVision. "Our participation in this event provides a platform to strengthen global efforts in solving presbyopia and other refractive errors, ultimately advancing our goal of ensuring clear sight for all."

RestoringVision's delegation, led by CEO Pelin Munis, Ph.D., includes Mark Lorey, VP of Programs and Impact, board members Kevin Hassey and Reade Fahs, CEO of National Vision, Inc., along with key partners including Dr. Edgar Medina Figueroa from Management Sciences for Health-Peru and Moises Sifren of Hospital El Buen Samaritano, Dominican Republic.

"We aim to foster discussions that drive tangible progress in addressing refractive errors globally," stated Munis. "Through collaborative efforts and innovative models, we can create sustainable solutions that positively impact individuals, communities, and societies at large."

RestoringVision will also exhibit its work at a dedicated booth in the conference Marketplace, providing delegates with insights into the organization's mission, impact, and future initiatives.

About RestoringVision:

RestoringVision is a global nonprofit dedicated to ending the global vision crisis. The organization is committed to creating equitable access to vision services and eyeglasses, particularly for individuals living on less than $2 a day. One billion people have a vision impairment that could have been prevented or is yet to be addressed, 80% of which could be corrected with a simple pair of reading glasses. We work to solve this global crisis by partnering with our unparalleled network of more than 3,000 NGOs and government partners to provide life-changing vision screenings and eyeglasses to millions of people who could not access them otherwise. RestoringVision has reached more than 28 million people in 150 countries since 2003. For more information, visit restoringvision.org.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE RestoringVision
NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global road haulage market size is estimated to grow by USD 1.34 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.78% during the forecast period. Rising freight demand from retail and manufacturing industries is driving market growth, with a trend towards rapid adoption of smartphones and growing internet penetration. However, shortage of heavy vehicle drivers poses a challenge. Key market players include AM Cargo Ltd., Leicester Heavy Haulage, Caterpillar Inc., CEVA Logistics, Container Corp. Of India Ltd., DB Schenker, DSV AS, Fercam Spa, FM Logistic, Gosselin Group, Ital Logistics Ltd., KLG Europe, WALTER LEASING GmbH, Manitoulin Transport Inc., Maxi Group Ltd., Mesaroli Spa, Monarch Transport Ltd., Siemens AG, SLH Transport Inc., and Woodside Haulage Holdings Ltd..

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global road haulage market 2024-2028

Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies- View the snapshot of this report

Road Haulage Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 6.78% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 1341.4 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 6.23 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 34% Key countries China, US, UK, India, and Canada Key companies profiled AM Cargo Ltd., Leicester Heavy Haulage, Caterpillar Inc., CEVA Logistics, Container Corp. Of India Ltd., DB Schenker, DSV AS, Fercam Spa, FM Logistic, Gosselin Group, Ital Logistics Ltd., KLG Europe, WALTER LEASING GmbH, Manitoulin Transport Inc., Maxi Group Ltd., Mesaroli Spa, Monarch Transport Ltd., Siemens AG, SLH Transport Inc., and Woodside Haulage Holdings Ltd.

Market Driver

The automotive industry is experiencing significant transformation through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. This innovation is driving the demand for autonomous transportation solutions, particularly in the road haulage market. Notable companies like Volvo Autonomous Solutions and Tesla are leading this trend by developing autonomous transport solutions for hub-to-hub applications and launching electric trucks with enhanced autopilot systems. These advancements aim to increase utility, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance safety, contributing to the growth of the global road haulage market.

The road haulage market is experiencing significant trends with a focus on efficiency and technology. The use of advanced technologies such as vehicle tracking and digital documentation is increasing. This helps in improving delivery times and reducing administrative costs. Additionally, the adoption of alternative fuels like electric and hydrogen vehicles is gaining traction. This is in response to the growing demand for sustainable logistics solutions. Furthermore, the implementation of regulations like the European Union's Green Deal is driving the shift towards more eco-friendly transportation methods. Overall, the road haulage industry is undergoing transformative changes to meet the evolving needs of businesses and consumers.

Research report provides comprehensive data on impact of trend. For more details- Download a Sample Report

Market Challenges

The global road haulage market faces a significant challenge due to a persistent driver shortage. From Europe to the US, the deficit of Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) drivers reached 22% in Europe from 2018 to 2019 and 80,000 in the US in 2021. Spain experienced a substantial decrease in potential drivers in 2019. The aging driver population, with an average age between 45 and 47 years in Germany , is retiring, leading to a further shortage. This scarcity compels transport companies to decline contracts, causing delays in product delivery and increasing transportation costs by nearly three times that of rail and water combined. These factors may hinder market growth during the forecast period.

to the US, the deficit of Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) drivers reached 22% in from 2018 to 2019 and 80,000 in the US in 2021. experienced a substantial decrease in potential drivers in 2019. The aging driver population, with an average age between 45 and 47 years in , is retiring, leading to a further shortage. This scarcity compels transport companies to decline contracts, causing delays in product delivery and increasing transportation costs by nearly three times that of rail and water combined. These factors may hinder market growth during the forecast period. The road haulage market faces several challenges in delivering goods and services efficiently. The complexity of supply chains and the need for real-time tracking and delivery have become crucial factors. Commerccially, capacity and cost management are significant challenges. Fuel prices and vehicle maintenance costs impact profitability. Regulations, such as hours of service and weight restrictions, add complexity and increase operational costs. Additionally, the need for secure and efficient logistics solutions to transport sensitive goods is a growing concern. To remain competitive, road haulage companies must continuously adapt to these challenges and invest in technology and innovation.

For more insights on driver and challenges - Request a sample report!

Segment Overview

This road haulage market report extensively covers market segmentation by

Vehicle Type

1.1 Heavy commercial vehicles

1.2 Light commercial vehicles

Type

2.1 Domestic road haulage

2.2 International road haulage

Geography

3.1 APAC

3.2 North America

3.3 Europe

3.4 South America

3.5 Middle East and Africa

1.1 Heavy commercial vehicles- The heavy commercial vehicles (HCV) segment in the road haulage market caters to larger shipments, typically filling more than half of a 48-foot or 53-foot trailer. This mode is popular when shippers have sufficient items, require time-sensitive freight, or find it cost-effective. HCV includes refrigerated trucks for temperature-sensitive goods and offers value-added services like loading, unloading, and door-to-door delivery. The global manufacturing industry's growth is driving HCV demand, with vendors adopting intermodal transportation and electrification. Notable developments, such as the Volvo Group, Daimler Truck, and TRATON GROUP's joint venture to install European charging infrastructure for electric HCVs, are positively impacting the market's growth during the forecast period.

For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report

Research Analysis

The Road Haulage Market encompasses the transportation of various goods, including agricultural products and construction materials, via heavy vehicles such as Heavy trucks and Drayage trucks. This sector is significantly influenced by globalization, leading to the integration of supply chains and the expansion of Domestic road haulage. Autonomous driving technology is revolutionizing the industry, aiming to reduce Delivery fees and improve efficiency. However, concerns over Diesel engine emissions and Carbon emissions continue to pose challenges. Bulk distribution of coal and other commodities, as well as Hoisting and Drayage services, are essential components of the market. Innovative vehicles and infrastructure development are key drivers for growth in this sector.

Market Research Overview

The road haulage market encompasses the transportation of goods via road using trucks or trailers. This sector plays a crucial role in the global supply chain, enabling the seamless movement of goods from one location to another. The market is driven by various factors, including increasing international trade, e-commerce growth, and the need for just-in-time delivery. Technological advancements, such as the integration of telematics and the use of alternative fuels, are also transforming the industry. Additionally, regulatory compliance and the implementation of stringent safety standards are key considerations for market participants. Overall, the road haulage market is expected to grow steadily in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective logistics solutions.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

Vehicle Type

Heavy Commercial Vehicles



Light Commercial Vehicles

Type

Domestic Road Haulage



International Road Haulage

Geography

APAC



North America



Europe



South America



Middle East And Africa

7 Customer Landscape

8 Geographic Landscape

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10 Company Landscape

11 Company Analysis

12 Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
LONDON and PHILADELPHIA, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- HKA, a leading global consultancy in risk mitigation, dispute resolution, expert witness, and litigation support services, announces that Rob Shull has joined its Forensic Accounting and Commercial Damages (FACD) practice as a Partner based in Toronto.

Rob is an expert with more than twenty-five years of professional experience helping clients with complex financial modeling, data capture, damage quantification, and administration of class action litigation. He has conducted numerous assignments related to allegations of management and employee fraud where he has provided sound, reliable quantification of damages in matters across a variety of industries.

Rob specializes in contract compliance, investigations, litigation support, damage and lost profit calculations across various industries, including construction, financial services, retail, manufacturing, oil and gas, mining, and municipal, provincial, and federal government.

Rob has experience preparing expert reports for matters heard in the Court of King's Bench of Alberta, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, and the Supreme Court of Canada. He has testified as a qualified expert in commercial litigation and arbitration matters in Ontario.

"We are excited to welcome Rob to the HKA team as we expand our Forensic Accounting and Commercial Damages practice throughout Canada. Rob's extensive experience will significantly enhance our FACD team's capabilities. We look forward to working closely with him."

-- said Rick Moffat, Partner, Head of Operations, Canada.

Before joining HKA, Rob was a Managing Director, Forensics and Disputes at PwC. He is a Certified Forensic Investigator with the Association of Certified Forensic Investigators ACFI of Canada, Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants AICPA in the United States, and a Certified Professional/Public Accountant (CPA) in both Canada and the United States. Rob holds a Diploma in Investigative and Forensic Accounting (DIFA) from the University of Toronto's Rotman School of Management and a Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) in Accounting from the University of Saskatchewan.

HKA's FACD experts have extensive experience advising clients on the accounting, economic, and financial impacts of complex matters. The firm's experts serve clients by analyzing issues related to various disputes, including breach of contract, intellectual property (IP), shareholder, mergers, and acquisitions. Additionally, HKA undertakes fraud, forensic, and regulatory investigations.

ABOUT HKA

HKA is the leading global consultancy in risk mitigation, dispute resolution, expert witness, and litigation support services.

HKA brings a proud record of excellent service and high achievement to bear on today's challenges. As trusted independent consultants, experts, and advisors, we help clients manage disputes, risk, and uncertainty on complex contracts and challenging projects. Our advice is impartial, incisive, and authoritative.

We work with government agencies, local authorities, contractors, legal firms, and other professional service providers, as well as owners and operators, financial institutions, and insurers. HKA's global portfolio includes some of the world's largest and most prestigious commissions across a wide range of industries.

HKA has in excess of 1,000 experts, consultants, and advisors across 45+ offices in 17 countries with the skills and experience that are essential to get to the heart of even the most complex issues.

For more information about HKA, visit hka.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter, @HKAGlobal), and Facebook.

Media contact

Andrew J. Katz

Marketing and Communications Director, Americas

+1 215 962 1136

[email protected]

SOURCE HKA Global
NEW YORK, June 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global scaffolding market size is estimated to grow by USD 21.9 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.75% during the forecast period. Rise in construction activities in developing countries is driving market growth, with a trend towards improved productivity and safety. However, shortage of skilled labor poses a challenge. Key market players include ADTO Industrial Group Co. Ltd., Altrad Group, Anish Scaffolding India Pvt. Ltd., Brand Industrial Services Inc., BSL Scaffolding Ltd., Cangzhou Weisitai Scaffolding Co. Ltd., Changli XMWY Formwork Scaffolding Co. Ltd., GRUPO ULMA S. COOP, KHK Scaffolding and Formwork LLC, MJ Gerust GmbH, PERI SE, Rizhao Fenghua Scaffoldings Co. Ltd., SB Scaffolding India Pvt Ltd., Stepup Scaffold LLC, Uni Span, Universal Building Supply Inc., Waco Kwikform Ltd., Wellmade Scaffold Co. Ltd., Wilhelm Layher Holding GmbH and Co. KG, and Wuxi Rapid Scaffolding Engineering Co. Ltd..

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global scaffolding market 2024-2028

Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies - Click for the snapshot of this report

Forecast period 2024-2028 Base Year 2023 Historic Data 2018 - 2022 Segment Covered Type (Supported, Suspended, and Rolling), End-user (Construction, Ship building, Electrical maintenance, and Residential), and Geography (APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America) Region Covered APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America Key companies profiled ADTO Industrial Group Co. Ltd., Altrad Group, Anish Scaffolding India Pvt. Ltd., Brand Industrial Services Inc., BSL Scaffolding Ltd., Cangzhou Weisitai Scaffolding Co. Ltd., Changli XMWY Formwork Scaffolding Co. Ltd., GRUPO ULMA S. COOP, KHK Scaffolding and Formwork LLC, MJ Gerust GmbH, PERI SE, Rizhao Fenghua Scaffoldings Co. Ltd., SB Scaffolding India Pvt Ltd., Stepup Scaffold LLC, Uni Span, Universal Building Supply Inc., Waco Kwikform Ltd., Wellmade Scaffold Co. Ltd., Wilhelm Layher Holding GmbH and Co. KG, and Wuxi Rapid Scaffolding Engineering Co. Ltd.

Key Market Trends Fueling Growth

The construction industry values time, with timely project completion enhancing a company's reputation and minimizing delay-related overheads. Scaffolding is essential for construction, maintenance, and repair activities. To expedite scaffolding setup at construction sites, providers employ productivity-enhancing and safety-ensuring techniques. For instance, Layher's Allround Scaffolding, suitable for complex and simple projects, boasts quick erection times and adherence to regulations. This technology boosts worker productivity and safety, contributing to market growth.

The scaffolding market is currently experiencing significant growth due to the increasing construction activities worldwide. According to industry reports, the demand for scaffolding solutions is on the rise, particularly in sectors like residential, commercial, and infrastructure. The use of advanced scaffolding technologies such as suspended scaffolds, tube and clamp scaffolds, and system scaffolds is becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, the trend towards sustainable and eco-friendly scaffolding materials is gaining momentum. Acoustic scaffolding and scaffolding with fire-resistant properties are also in high demand. The market is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years, driven by these trends and the ongoing construction boom.

Research report provides comprehensive data on impact of trend. For more details- Download a Sample Report

Market Challenges

 The construction industry relies heavily on scaffoldings as a vital support system for workers and materials at various heights. OSHA mandates proper scaffold erection for a safe working environment, with nearly 2.3 million US workers (65% of the construction workforce) utilizing scaffolds. However, a shortage of skilled labor due to varying scaffold designs and component usage hinders industry growth. This issue is prevalent in expanding industries like New Zealand's construction sector and US refineries, leading to project delays and market challenges.

 The scaffolding market faces several challenges in the construction industry. One major challenge is the high cost of scaffolding, which can significantly impact a project's budget. Another challenge is the time-consuming process of erecting and dismantling scaffolds. Additionally, ensuring safety during scaffold use is a constant concern. The use of advanced technologies, such as prefabricated and modular scaffolds, can help address these challenges by reducing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing safety. However, the initial investment for these solutions can be high. Therefore, striking a balance between cost and benefits is crucial for businesses in the scaffolding market.

For more insights on driver and challenges - Download a Sample Report

Segment Overview

This scaffolding market report extensively covers market segmentation by

Type

1.1 Supported

1.2 Suspended

1.3 Rolling

End-user

2.1 Construction

2.2 Ship building

2.3 Electrical maintenance

2.4 Residential

Geography

3.1 APAC

3.2 North America

3.3 Europe

3.4 Middle East and Africa

and 3.5 South America



1.1 Supported- The global scaffolding market's supported segment experiences growth due to increased infrastructure investments. In 2023, the US administration allocated USD1.78 trillion, and India's Union Budget set aside USD119.70 billion. India aims to invest USD1.4 trillion between 2019 and 2023. These investments fuel the demand for supported scaffolding in construction, maintenance, and repair projects, contributing significantly to market expansion.

For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) - Download a Sample Report

Research Analysis

The Scaffolding Market encompasses infrastructure development and residential construction sectors in both developing and advanced economies. Government programs promoting privatization and modernization have led to an increase in demand for scaffolding solutions. Traditional scaffolding methods, such as wooden planks and metal poles, are being replaced by low-cost, mechanized alternatives like rolling scaffolding and aluminum scaffolding. High rail constructions, home remodeling, and renovation operations in the mechanical and electrical sectors also require robust support structures. Grid systems, portable stages, seating, barriers, cleaning, and maintenance are integral components of the temporary staging segment. The Global Scaffolding Market is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing demand for temporary staging in various industries. Keywords: Infrastructure, Government programs, Privatization, Worker safety, Residential construction sector, Scaffolding, High rail constructions, Unorganized firms, Traditional scaffolding, Low-cost scaffolding, Developing economies, Home remodeling, Rolling scaffolding, Mechanical sector, Electrical sector, Aluminum scaffolding, Support structures, Grid systems, Portable stages, Seating, Barriers, Cleaning, Maintenance, Renovation operations, Temporary stage segment, Temporary staging.

Market Research Overview

The Scaffolding Market encompasses the production and distribution of scaffolding solutions used in various industries for construction, maintenance, and repair projects. These structures provide a safe and stable platform for workers to access hard-to-reach areas. Scaffolding types include system scaffolds, tube and clamp scaffolds, and suspension scaffolds. Materials used include aluminum, steel, and fiberglass. Factors driving market growth include increasing infrastructure development, growing construction industry, and stringent safety regulations. Trends include the use of modular and prefabricated scaffolds and the integration of technology for improved efficiency and safety. Applications span across sectors like residential, commercial, industrial, and energy.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary

2 Market Landscape

3 Market Sizing

4 Historic Market Size

5 Five Forces Analysis

6 Market Segmentation

Type

Supported



Suspended



Rolling

End-user

Construction



Ship Building



Electrical Maintenance



Residential

Geography

APAC



North America



Europe



Middle East And Africa



South America



7 Customer Landscape

8 Geographic Landscape

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10 Company Landscape

11 Company Analysis

12 Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
BOSTON, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- ShowUp is pleased to announce its upcoming exhibition, Material Progress, featuring the work of artists Dina Nazmi Khorchid, Marla L. McLeod, and Diana Weymar (Tiny Pricks Project). Material Progress will run from September 6 to December 1, 2024. An opening reception will be held on Friday, September 6th from 5 to 8 pm.

ShowUp presents this timely exhibition with the intention of encouraging visitors to consider the state of our society and inspire civic engagement.

Through fiber, text, sculpture and paintings, Material Progress invites us to explore themes of the condition of our democracy, the (in)stability of our metaphorical home: the United States, issues that polarize and themes that unite. Opportunities for artmaking, exchange and engagement with the artists intend to reinforce the importance of participation in society's search for a path forward.

Material Progress features selections from Diana Weymar's noteworthy 5,000+ piece public art Tiny Pricks Project, as well as Weymar's own collectible work. Both present text-based vintage fabrics grappling with universal themes and ongoing history-making events and issues, while reflecting and memorializing the ephemeral, digital society in which we live. Visual artist Dina Nazmi Khorchid's textile installation invites visitors to consider domesticity, land and memory. Mixed media artist Marla L. McLeod's sculptural work, installations and paintings highlight challenging historical truths and re-envision complex cultural dilemmas.

Beyond the mere visual experience, visitors are invited to participate and engage with Material Progress and current artistic and civic opportunities. A fabric and craft project exchange will take place in the gallery to offer a chance for connection and empowerment through the arts. Voter registration cards will also be available, encouraging and reinforcing the importance of civic action. Live events inside and beyond the gallery walls are planned with themes regarding how language shapes political discourse, constructs identities and inspires action.

Material Progress is opening concurrently with the publication of Diana Weymar's Crafting a Better World: Inspiration and DIY Projects for Craftivists (HarperCollins). This curated collection of "essays, exclusive profiles of well-known creatives, and projects'' reflects the artist's deep interest in connection and resistance through creativity.

For more information about the exhibition or its events please visit showupinc.org or reach out to the gallery via [email protected].

About the Artists

Dina Nazmi Khorchid

Dina Nazmi Khorchid (b. 1987, Kuwait) is a visual artist who works primarily with printed and woven textiles. Her work constructs narratives of place and connections to lost bodies, through mark-making, photography and material studies, that manifest as textiles and works on paper. She explores themes of identity and geo-politics, grief, land and memory access; in relation to being a third-generation Palestinian refugee, an artist and daughter of a disappeared casualty of the Gulf War.

Dina's work is in private collections and was featured in group shows in the UAE, USA, Lebanon and Tunisia, including exhibitions at Art Dubai, B7L9 Art Centre, Institute for Palestine Studies, Field Projects, Tashkeel and 421. She completed a Master of Fine Arts in Textiles at the Rhode Island School of Design (2023), where she was a recipient of the Society of Presidential Fellows Award and a Bachelors in Visual Communication from the American University of Sharjah (2009). Dina was awarded Artist-in-Residence at Texere (Mexico, Feb 2024), Vermont Studio Center (USA, Sept 2023), Fellow at Ashkal Alwan's Home Workspace Program (Lebanon, 2018-2019) and is an alumnus of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Emerging Artists Fellowship (UAE, 2016-2017).

Marla L. McLeod

McLeod explores identity and social constructs within Black communities through her portrait paintings, textiles, and sculptures. In 2022 she held a solo exhibition at Essex Arts Center in Lowell, MA and is an artist in the New England Triennial at the deCordova Sculpture Park and Fruitlands Museum.

In 2021 she received a Walter Feldman Fellowship, awarded by the Arts & Business Council of Greater Boston and was a spotlighted artist interviewed by Cristela Guerra at WBUR/NPR Boston. 2021 has seen her work in several Boston based art galleries, as well as at Tufts University Art Galleries. Her MFA thesis made her a featured artist on the MFA, Boston 2020 Takeover Fridays social media project, the 2020 Area Code Art Fair StoreFronts Projects, and one of the Boston Globes "5 Outstanding Art School Grads". She has received the Will and Elena Barnet Painting Award, a Tisch Library Graduate Research Fellowship, and presented at Black Portraitures, NYU.

She was awarded a Post Graduate Teaching Fellowship at the SMFA and has taught courses at Southern Connecticut State University. McLeod is currently an Adjunct Professor at Maine College of Art (MECA), Boston College and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Diana Weymar

Diana Weymar grew up in the wilderness of British Columbia, studied Creative Writing at Princeton University, and worked in film in New York City. For the past decade, she has been threading the needle to create a material record of our times. Both on social media and in person, she has encouraged thousands of people to find their own creative path through personal and political challenges.

She is the creator and curator of the public art projects Interwoven Stories and Tiny Pricks Project. Her collaborations and exhibits bring people together around textile and embroidery to share personal stories and discuss political issues. She has worked or collaborated with Build Peace (Nicosia, Bogota, Zurich, Belfast, San Diego), Arts Council of Princeton, Nantucket Atheneum, W.E.B. Du Bois Center at UMass Amherst, University of Puget Sound, Zen Hospice Project, Open Arts Space (Damascus Syria), Trans Tipping Point Project, New York Textile Month, Alison Cornyn's Incorrigibles project, Syrian journalist and activist Mansour Omari, Princeton University Concerts Healing With Music program, Project Threadways, Alabama Chanin, Open Society Foundations, The Isolation Journals, Kate Bowler, Economic Hardship Reporting Project, Culture House, the Fetterman campaign, Speedwell Projects, ShowUp Gallery, Planthouse Gallery, Molly Jong-Fast, Lingua Franca, and Abortion Access Front, #notalonechallenge, and many others. Her work is also in private collections.

You can follow her daily doily on Instagram @tinypricksproject and her website is www.tinypricksproject.com.

About Crafting a Better World

From the climate crisis, to racism, to gun violence, to attacks on LGBTQ+ rights, the list of issues facing this country goes on and on, and it's only natural to feel anxious about the state of our union. Even if you vote, march, volunteer, and donate, feelings of hopelessness (and helplessness) still creep in.

Crafting a Better World is a new kind of call to action: a guidebook for combatting fatigue and frustration with the handmade. Whether that's sewing a welcome blanket for new immigrants, or making a batch of "vulva chocolates" to raise money at a bake sale for abortion access, this book will teach you how to transform your anxiety into action.

Curated by Diana Weymar, the creator of the Tiny Pricks Project, who knows what it means to meld craft and activism. On Jan. 8, 2018, she stitched "I am a very stable genius" (a Donald Trump quote) into a piece of her grandmother's abandoned needlework from the 1960s and posted it to Instagram. Since then, she's turned her embroidery practice into a material record of the trials facing this country and become a leading voice in the movement to save our democracy.

Featuring essays, exclusive profiles of well-known creatives, and projects that readers can create by themselves or with their communities, this book is a means to stay engaged, make stuff, and hold ourselves together as we navigate this uncertain personal and political landscape. With contributions from artists and activists, including:

Jamie Lee Curtis

Roz Chast

Gisele Fetterman

PEN America

Nadya Tolokonnikova (founding member, Pussy Riot)

Guerilla Girls

Crafting a Better World is a response to this unique moment in time when so many feel, in equal measure, deep anxiety and deep hope. So pick up a needle, a pen, a spatulaanythingand craft the change you want to see in the world.

About ShowUp

ShowUp is a nonprofit art activism-focused exhibition, education, and community-building space, creating an innovative environment for underrepresented artists' voices and visions. It exhibits art activists and engages in its own art activism. ShowUp promotes its mission via its "Three Es": Exhibitions, Education, and Engagement.

Its mission is to

CONNECT artists to local communities and beyond

AMPLIFY artists and their voices

PROVIDE artists tools for self-sufficiency

EMPOWER artists and curators to experiment, learn, and have meaningful exchanges

Learn more on its website and Instagram.

SOURCE ShowUp
The European Orthodontic Society aims to advance all aspects of orthodontics and its relationship with the collateral arts and sciences for the public benefit. Affiliated with the World Federation of Orthodontists, the society brings together orthodontists from all over the world at the annual congress, held in different European countries each year.

Smartee's booth at the EOS Congress drew significant attention from orthodontists eager to explore the company's two decades of achievement. Highlights included:

Smartee Cutting-edge Solutions S1-S21: Smartee has developed a series of solutions from S1-S21, tailored to different clinical scenarios, and continuously upgrades them to meet various dental needs. Each product series is designed to cater to specific patient requirements, ensuring comprehensive care and effective treatment.

Smartee has developed a series of solutions from S1-S21, tailored to different clinical scenarios, and continuously upgrades them to meet various dental needs. Each product series is designed to cater to specific patient requirements, ensuring comprehensive care and effective treatment. Smartee One-stop Digital Solution: Smartee utilizes AI technology to offer a comprehensive digital solution that enhances treatment planning precision and safety. Key features include the Smartee Med-AI algorithm for instant 3D Root Visualizations, CEPH measurement software for precise patient diagnosis, and Smartee iFast for seamless before-after simulations. These tools empower orthodontic professionals to deliver superior patient care through efficient and effective treatment planning.

Smartee utilizes AI technology to offer a comprehensive digital solution that enhances treatment planning precision and safety. Key features include the Smartee Med-AI algorithm for instant 3D Root Visualizations, CEPH measurement software for precise patient diagnosis, and Smartee iFast for seamless before-after simulations. These tools empower orthodontic professionals to deliver superior patient care through efficient and effective treatment planning. Full Range of Products with Distinctive Features: Including Smartee GS, which applies invisible mandibular repositioning technology to move the mandible forward and promote TMJ remodeling for the treatment of severe Class II malocclusions; Smartee , which utilizes different multi-layer composite dental sheet materials for day and night use; Smartee GE, a classic product powered by a global database of over 1.6 million patients; and Smartee Kinder and Smartee Teen, which are both authorized by Disney IP and offer tailored orthodontic solutions for young patients.

As part of its participation at EOS, Smartee hosted an educational workshop led by Dr. Tao Guo, which provided attendees with valuable insights into Smartee GS Mandibular Repositioning Technology for treating severe jaw discrepancies using highly customized clear aligners.

Smartee's presence at the 99th EOS Congress underscores its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of invisible orthodontics and supporting the global orthodontic community. By continually expanding its product offerings and enhancing digital solutions, Smartee aims to empower orthodontists with the technology and tools necessary to deliver exceptional patient care.

About Smartee Denti-Technology:

Founded in 2004, Smartee is the leading provider of clear aligners and digital orthodontic solutions in China. Headquartered in Shanghai, Smartee has two research & development centers and manufacturing plants that are fully automated. By serving over 64,000 doctors from 48,000 medical institutions in over 47 countries, Smartee has achieved over 1 million perfect smiles worldwide.

With the advance of digital solutions, Smartee continues to expand its portfolio and has launched over 10 aligner products catering to different malocclusion problems for children, adolescents and adults. Collaborating with Prof Gang Shen and his orthodontic team, Smartee has developed an innovative product: Smartee GS, which provides orthodontists with mandibular repositioning technology to treat patients with complex indications including facial prognathism, facial retrognathism and mandibular deviation more effectively.

SOURCE Smartee Denti-Technology
ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., June 18, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Get ready to add some serious heat to your culinary adventures! African Dream Foods is thrilled to announce that its popular African Ghost Pepper Sauce is now available nationwide at Albertsons and a selection of its affiliated banners across the United States. This exciting launch brings the authentic, bold flavors of Africa directly to your local grocery store.

African Dream Foods' African Ghost Pepper Sauce now at Safeway and other Albertsons Companies stores.

Starting this month, shoppers can find the African Ghost Pepper Sauce in Albertsons, as well as in Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Acme, Pavilions, Carrs, and Andronico's Community Markets. Being available in more stores nationwide ensures that you can easily grab a bottle of this unique and spicy sauce to elevate your meals with a fiery twist.

A Taste of Africa with a Global Impact

The African Ghost Pepper Sauce is not just another hot sauce; it's a culinary experience and a commitment to conservation and social responsibility. "We are so excited for our African Ghost Pepper Sauce to be available nationwide at Albertsons and its family of stores. Bringing our authentic African flavors and conservation message to every American kitchen has always been a goal, and this is a giant step towards that!" said David Schmunk, founder of African Dream Foods. "The desire for African flavors in our current food landscape is growing, and we are proud to represent authentic African flavor with our African Ghost Pepper Sauce."

Every purchase of the African Ghost Pepper Sauce contributes to wildlife conservation efforts across Africa, with a portion of the proceeds supporting projects that protect endangered species and promote biodiversity.

Why You'll Love It:

Authentic African Flavor: Experience the heat and rich taste of Africa in every drop.

in every drop. Natural Ingredients: Made with non-GMO, vegan ingredients without the use of artificial flavors or preservatives.

Conservation Efforts: Support wildlife conservation with every purchase.

About African Dream Foods

African Dream Foods is a food brand dedicated to bringing the authentic, natural flavors of Africa to the global stage through its line of sauces and spices. The brand is deeply committed to conservation efforts in the region, with a portion of proceeds directly supporting top wildlife conservation organizations. African Dream Foods collaborates closely with local farmers, business owners, and producers, ensuring not only the creation of a delicious product line but also a positive impact on the communities and environment. Their natural, non-GMO, and vegan products are available online via Amazon and AfricanDreamFoods.com.

About Albertsons Companies

Albertsons Companies is one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States, operating stores across 35 states under 20 well-known banners. Committed to helping people live better lives, Albertsons and its subsidiaries strive to make a meaningful difference in the communities they serve.

For further information, interviews, or media inquiries, please contact:

Natasha Jebens

Marketing Lead

Email: [email protected]

323-400-5075

To learn more about African Dream Foods and the African Ghost Pepper Sauce, please visit www.africandreamfoods.com.

SOURCE African Dream Foods
Sumsub secures long-term partnership with Finastra, jointly enabling banking clients to adopt Sumsub's compliance and anti-fraud solutions

LONDON, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sumsub, a global full-cycle verification platform, is partnering with Finastra , a global provider of financial software applications and marketplaces, to support financial institutions worldwide with their compliance processes. Finastra and Sumsub will collaborate on mutual projects, offering Sumsub's full compliance suite of verification and anti-fraud solutions to the banking market.

Sumsub and Finastra announce long-term partnership to strengthen banking industry compliance

The banking sector faces increasingly stringent regulatory requirements, adding pressure to replace home-built systems with specialised, standardised platforms. Finastra will offer Sumsub's Know-Your-Customer (KYC), Know-Your-Business (KYB), fraud prevention, and ongoing transaction monitoring capabilities to its client base of 8,500 financial institutions around the globe.

Sumsub will enable banks to onboard new users swiftly, perform anti-money laundering (AML) screening on customers, verify business clients, and monitor for fraud and suspicious transactions with the option to adopt and manage all features through a single platform.

In addition to helping financial institutions comply with sector-wide regulations, the partnership helps banks uphold their reputation, safeguard against security issues and reduce operational inefficiencies. The collaboration streamlines customer onboarding processes for banks, ensuring efficiency, while Sumsub's solutions mitigate potential fraud expenses that might hinder their financial performance.

"Market requirements and compliance expectations across the financial sector are continually changing. In light of this, banks cannot meet these on their own - they need help from specialists," said Achim Thienel, Managing Director Germany & Product Director at Finastra. "We are pleased to partner with Sumsub, following a rigorous due diligence process. In addition to providing technology, we always aim to be trusted consultants to our clients. We remain committed to referring best-in-class solutions that meet their unique requirements."

"As a worrying amount of fraud occurs beyond the initial onboarding stage, it is crucial firms have the capabilities to secure the whole customer journey with ongoing fraud prevention tools, beyond the user onboarding process. By partnering with Finastra we make this need a reality, helping financial institutions strengthen their verification and anti-fraud processes," said Martin ten Houten, VP of Business Development, Europe at Sumsub. "We will continue to support financial institutions by maintaining stakeholder satisfaction and protecting end users from illicit actors, all while helping banks avoid the reputational damage associated with issues such as inadequate customer screening or fraud exposure."

About Sumsub

Sumsub is a full-cycle verification platform that secures the whole user journey. With Sumsub's customizable KYC, KYB, Transaction Monitoring and Fraud Prevention solutions, you can orchestrate your verification process, welcome more customers worldwide, meet compliance requirements, reduce costs, and protect your business.

Sumsub has over 2,000 clients across the fintech, crypto, transportation, trading, e-commerce and gaming industries including Bitpanda, Wirex, Avis, Bybit, Huobi, Kaizen Gaming, and TransferGo.

About Finastra

Finastra is a global provider of financial software applications and marketplaces. It serves institutions of all sizes, providing award-winning software solutions and services across Lending, Payments, Treasury & Capital Markets and Universal Banking (Retail, Digital and Commercial Banking) for banks to support direct banking relationships and grow through indirect channels, such as embedded finance and Banking as a Service. Its pioneering approach and commitment to open finance and collaboration is why it is trusted by over 8,000 institutions, including 45 of the world's top 50 banks. For more information, visit finastra.com.

SOURCE Sumsub
LOS ANGELESIntimate wellness brand Wicked Sensual Care is shining its Retail Employee Spotlight on Amber Salyer of Romantic Escapades in Kingsport, Tennessee.

Salyer discovered her passion for retail through an unexpected yet serendipitous journey. Born to the owners of Romantic Escapades, she was introduced to customer service and business operations from an early age. In 2017, she formally joined her parents' business, initially to help out and learn the ropes. What began as a temporary role turned into a profound calling.

When I entered the industry it was for a paycheck, Salyer said. However, I quickly found my passion.

Immersed in the day-to-day activities of Romantic Escapades, Salyer found herself captivated by the unique blend of creativity, strategy and personal connection that retail demanded. Her innate talent for understanding customer needs and her innovative approach to merchandising breathed new life into the store, enhancing its charm and broadening its appeal.

When her parents decided to sell Romantic Escapades in 2022, Salyer faced a crossroads. With unwavering dedication to the store and its community, she chose to remain a cornerstone of the establishment.

Under the new ownership, my opportunities as well as my passion for the industry have continued to grow, she observed. I focus on education for our guests. There is so much in the industry that is unknown. It is in that unknown where I strive to open up possibilities for our guests. I want my store to be an educational resource while being all-inclusive and a safe space for all individuals.

I love when guests come back and let me know the conversations they had with me and the products they purchased have had a profound impact on their lives. It is stories like these that make me believe that what we do makes a difference. I tell guests, Just be yourself no matter who judges you, and I strive to embrace all individuals out there for exactly who they are. One thing I love about Wicked Sensual Care is they create products that are high quality, safe for everyone, and inclusive to all realms of society.

"Amber Salyer's continued dedication to Romantic Escapades, the store her parents founded, has not only ignited a profound passion for service within her but has also significantly benefited the local community, said Wicked Sensual Care sales director Jennifer Brice. Her unwavering commitment and innovative spirit have transformed the store into a cherished local gem, enriching the lives of customers and fostering a strong sense of community pride."

Those working in the retail pleasure products space are invited to nominate employees who exceed expectations. Someone may be nominated by sending their name, store/city and a brief paragraph about why they deserve the accolade (a photo is optional) to [email protected], or by filling out this form. Individuals may also self-nominate. Like Salyer, the next Retail Spotllight recipient will be profiled in Wicked Sensual Care's monthly newsletter.
SEOUL, South Korea, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TelePIX, a leading South Korean space startup, has been honored as a 2024 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum (WEF). This prestigious recognition highlights TelePIX's innovative contributions to the global tech landscape.

TelePIX has been named a 2024 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum

As a Technology Pioneer, TelePIX will collaborate with other Technology Pioneers and global leaders, providing valuable insights and expertise to WEF's global initiatives. This recognition places TelePIX among an elite group of companies acknowledged for their innovative solutions and potential to address pressing global economic and social challenges.

The World Economic Forum, an International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation, hosts the annual Davos Forum, where business leaders, politicians, and journalists gather to discuss critical global issues. Each year, the WEF selects 100 leading tech startups as Technology Pioneers. This year, the focus is on companies making breakthroughs in AI for clean energy solutions, healthcare and biotechnology advancements, and innovations in space and neurotechnology.

This year's cohort includes nine pioneering space companies, such as satellite manufacturers and space data firms. TelePIX is proud to be among these distinguished companies.

TelePIX specializes in developing high-resolution electro-optic payload solutions using satellite imagery to create new value in various industries. The company has introduced the AI-based satellite, BlueBON, which monitors blue carbon in marine ecosystems. This innovation earned TelePIX the Innovation Award in the 'Human Security for All' category at CES 2024. Additionally, TelePIX provides a commodity supply chain monitoring solution using satellite imagery.

In collaboration with NVIDIA, TelePIX developed TetraPLEX, a high-performance AI processor designed for in-space edge computing. TetraPLEX enables efficient, on-the-spot data analysis directly within the satellite, significantly reducing both the time and cost associated with traditional ground-based processing. The processor will undergo an in-orbit demonstration in July, validating its performance and reliability in space.

"Satellite data is crucial for understanding our world and will continue to significantly impact the environment, economy, and society," said Seongick Cho, CEO of TelePIX. "We are committed to leveraging our technology to address global problems through collaboration with international leaders. This recognition marks the beginning of TelePIX's journey to become a global leader in spaceborne AI solutions."

About TelePIX

TelePIX, a member of Global Digital Innovation Network (formerly known as Born2Global Centre), is making big waves in the small satellite scene. Founded in 2019, the company is quickly emerging as a leader in nanosatellite development and satellite imagery data analytics solutions, democratizing access to space and its valuable data. Their advanced technologies unlock a universe of possibilities, from Earth observation and big data analysis to on-orbit AI.

Witness the next frontier of space exploration with TelePIX's upcoming launch, as the New Space takes flight.

SOURCE TelePIX
TomTom's advanced multi-source in-vehicle navigation services cover broader areas and offer enhanced details and accuracy to ensure vehicles are safer, more connected, and increasingly autonomous.

SAN ANTONIO, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan recently assessed the automotive map industry, and based on its findings, recognizes TomTom with the 2024 Global Customer Value Leadership Award. The company is a trailblazer in developing location technology and digital mapping solutions.

TomTom

Over the past three decades, TomTom has refined personal navigation and unlocked the potential for mapmaking with its real-time, community-driven mapping technologies. Today, the company sets new global standards and offers a robust foundation for innovators, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), automakers, developers, and businesses of all sizes to tailor mapping solutions to their specific needs. To inspire innovation, the company leverages cutting-edge artificial intelligence and partnerships with leading technology companies to build fresh, accurate, and interoperable maps.

TomTom's Orbis Maps distinguish it in the market and highlight its superior value proposition over competitors in automated driving. It allows users to enhance base maps with routing datasets and real-time traffic information for a precise estimated time of arrival, simplify on-demand services with detailed street maps and points of interest, identify optimal routes and charging points for electric vehicles, and improve driver safety with predictive maneuvers for automated vehicles.

TomTom's ADAS and HD map layers provide a border-to-border, highly accurate, and realistic representation of the roadway, including essential details for advanced driving applications. The HD layers revolutionize automated driving systems with their three-dimensional geometry and provide an exact model of the surrounding environment, allowing vehicles to navigate with unprecedented precision of up to 25 centimeters. The advanced mapping solutions' crucial functionalities for modern vehicles include:

Speed warnings, intelligent speed assistance, and adaptive cruise control

Eco-routing and traffic sign recognition,

Nuanced navigation and maneuvering with lane-specific driving information, from recognizing lane dividers to adhering to speed limits,

intelligent speed adaptation, and speed warning,

Advanced lane guidance and hands-free driving,

Highly precise vehicle positioning with minimal data usage, and

Robust feedback mechanisms for continuous enhancement of capabilities.

Manuel Albornoz, Best Practices Research Analyst, Frost & Sullivan, observed "TomTom delivers its technology across various markets, including enterprise, government, automotive, and consumer sectors. The company offers superior location-based services that span over 200 countries and territories. This expansive coverage relies on community-driven insights, local expert knowledge, and traditional data sources such as field surveys and satellite imagery. The result is a vibrant, dynamic representation of the world that caters to the needs of over five billion people globally."

TomTom offers a nuanced, constantly updated view of traffic conditions by leveraging data from over five trillion consumer-driven points, road sensors, and incident reports, providing the most accurate real-time traffic information. This gives the company a competitive edge in the industry. It enables real-time navigation adjustments and provides a foundational dataset for predicting traffic flow, identifying bottlenecks, and planning future road network improvements.

The company's customer-centric strategies, authentic approach, flawless execution, and diverse portfolio, including partnerships with over 30 car brands and over 14 million vehicles deploying its advanced driver assistance systems  ADAS  foster its market leadership.

"TomTom's ability to innovate in speed assist, lane control, and comprehensive high-definition maps enhances driving experience across various vehicle brands. Furthermore, TomTom's scalable solutions respond to the immediate needs of its diverse customer base and anticipate future demand, solidifying its reputation as a leader in delivering customer-centric mapping solutions," added Kamalesh Moharangam, Research Manager at Frost & Sullivan.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has demonstrated excellence in implementing strategies that proactively create value for its customers with a focus on improving the return on the investment that customers make in its services or products. The award recognizes the company's unique focus on augmenting the value that its customers receive, beyond simply good customer service, leading to improved customer retention and customer base expansion.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success.

Contact us:

Start the discussion. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:

Lindsey Whitaker

P: 1.210.477.8457

E: [email protected]

SOURCE Frost & Sullivan
193 homes will be maintained as deeply affordable housing for very low-income families with more than $10 million planned in quality-of-life and energy efficiency upgrades

NEW YORK, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tredway, an affordable and mixed-income real estate developer that builds and preserves high-quality, high-opportunity housing, and ELH Mgmt. LLC, today announced the acquisition of a seven-building portfolio in Brooklyn's Fort Greene neighborhood. Concurrent with the acquisition, Tredway has extended the affordability of the properties for another 40 years, ensuring all 193 homes will serve low-income households earning no more than 50 percent of area median income. An additional 30 percent of the homes will be reserved for formerly homeless individuals and families.

Tredway and ELH are investing upwards of $10 million to renovate the portfolio, including at 35 St. Felix Street, Brooklyn.

"The tremendous changes we've seen in Fort Greene over the past decade have unfortunately made it difficult for longtime residents to remain in the community they pioneered," said Will Blodgett, CEO & Founder of Tredway. "By locking in affordability for elderly and vulnerable residents, we hope the preservation of Greene Clermont Houses and Tri-Block Houses Apartments serves as a bulwark against displacement and an example of the socio-economic diversity that makes New York City so great."

Tredway and ELH are investing upwards of $10 million to renovate the portfolio, which has been largely untouched since it was first built. The cornerstone of the preservation is a 97-unit, elderly-designated, mid-rise building located at 80 Greene Avenue. Constructed in 1982, Greene Clermont Houses is home to longtime residents of Fort Greene who will benefit from critical aging-in-place retrofits aimed at enhancing residents' quality-of-life.

A redesigned indoor and outdoor community space and a new wellness center will allow for on-site vaccination and nursing services and include office space for a resident services coordinator. Jericho Project, a nationally-acclaimed nonprofit, has been retained to provide meaningful social services to residents with an emphasis on housing retention and stabilization, as well as age-appropriate programming.

Collectively known as Tri-Block Houses Apartments, the remaining buildings are located at 36 Fort Greene Place, 56 Fort Greene Place, 35 St. Felix Street, 42 St. Felix Street, 51 St. Felix Street and 221-225 Ashland Place.

Throughout the portfolio, the developers will focus on improving the properties' energy-efficiency and Local Law 11 safety improvements. Apartments will receive new bathrooms, kitchens, lighting and flooring, while lobbies and commons areas will be refreshed for the first time in over 40 years.

The project is being financed with a $97 million Freddie Mac loan from Wells Fargo. The total development cost is estimated to be $110 million. The sale was brokered by Affordable Housing Advisors.

About Tredway

Founded in 2021, Tredway is a real estate development firm that acquires, revitalizes and preserves affordable, workforce and mixed-income housing. Our work is driven by the belief that safe, high-quality and accessible housing is an important catalyst for upward socioeconomic mobility and is an essential part of fostering equity in America today. To learn about the advantages of partnering with Tredway, visit: tredway.com.

Media contact:

Kelly Magee

[email protected]

SOURCE Tredway Management, LLC
LONDON, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Ukraine Tech Summit, held on 12 June in Westminster, London and organised by London PR Lab, brought together over 200 participants, including Ukrainian and global tech leaders, investors, and startups. The summit is aimed to rejuvenate Ukraine's tech industry, promote global expansion, and foster international collaboration.

Ukraine Tech Summit 2024, Westminster Ukraine Tech Summit 2024, Westminster

Ukraine has long been a significant player in the UK tech world, with Ukrainian developers and talents supporting UK technological companies for many years. As more Ukrainian startups and product companies emerge, develop, and demonstrate unprecedented resilience, investors see increasing possibilities to support this tech-savvy nation.

"It is crucial to focus on investing in Ukraine now for economic stability and growth of the tech sector during the full-scale invasion," said Vladyslav Bazikalov, the Founder of Ukraine Tech Summit, highlighting the urgency of immediate investment in Ukraine.

Jonathan Djanogly, non-executive Chair of Pembroke VCT PLC and Former Member of Parliament, addressed the UK's perception of Ukraine and its tech sector, emphasizing great investment potential. He outlined improvements Ukraine can make to attract new investments.

The total value of the Ukrainian startup ecosystem has risen to an estimated 28 billion and Ukrainian startups continue to defy expectations.

"Despite air raids, missile strikes, and blackouts, Ukrainian specialists are working at full capacity. And the world notices this resilience and dedication. For instance, deep-tech company ZibraAI secured $500,000 from a16z. Certainly, partnership projects with foreign businesses help Ukrainian companies grow and strengthen their reputation. It is cooperation with the UK that helped Ukrainian companies access British markets and allowed British firms to benefit from Ukrainian innovation. Such collaboration will make Ukraine a key player in Europe and bring in the investments we need," commented Serhiy Tokarev, cofounder of Roosh, an investment group that develops and scales technological businesses globally.

To support entrepreneurs and tech companies in laying the groundwork for post-war economic recovery, Michal Kramarz, Head of Google for Startups, Central Europe and Mariama Boumanjal, Senior Startup Partner Manager and Fund Manager have announced the newest recipients of the Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund.

Run in partnership with 1991, Ukraine's first and largest accelerator, the $10 million Ukraine Support Fund provides equity-free cash awards and Google support to Ukrainian-founded tech companies. Selected startups received $100,000 of non-dilutive funding, Google Cloud credits, and hands-on Google mentoring, product, and technical support.

The first 2024 recipients of the Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund are:

Ailand Systems - smart autonomous drones for landmine detection

- smart autonomous drones for landmine detection BazaIT - all-in-one hiring solution for tech companies

- all-in-one hiring solution for tech companies Carbominer - green CO capture from the air as a service

- green CO capture from the air as a service Clearly - tech platform connecting psychotherapists with clients

- tech platform connecting psychotherapists with clients Eddy - digital space for teachers, parents, and students

- digital space for teachers, parents, and students Eventmate - app for event creators to engage with their audience

- app for event creators to engage with their audience Natively - conversion of websites into iOS/Android apps

- conversion of websites into iOS/Android apps Spendbase - platform to optimize SaaS, cloud, and corporate card spending

- platform to optimize SaaS, cloud, and corporate card spending Uspacy - digital workspace for SMBs, streamlining communication, collaboration, and CRM

The summit speakers also elaborated on grant opportunities for Ukrainian startups, the UK-UA partnership driving investments, and the resilience of Ukrainian founders.

"Ukraine has a longstanding tech collaboration with the UK. For a very long time, UK entrepreneurs have collaborated with Ukraine's amazing tech talent. Now, the UK is benefitting from Ukraine's startup ecosystem, from SaaS to climate tech to defence tech. Ukraine's resilience at both personal and startup levels is a key reason to partner with Ukraine's tech ecosystem," said Mike Butcher, MBE and Editor-at-large of TechCrunch.

www.ukrainetechsummit.co.uk

www.londonprlab.com

Media Contact:

Vladyslav Bazikalov

+447795100634

[email protected]

SOURCE London PR Lab
Company Named Best Overall Branded Pharmaceutical Product Manufacturer in its Sales Category for Fourth Consecutive Year

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC (Upsher-Smith) today announced that it has been awarded a Distribution Industry Award for Notable Achievement in Healthcare (DIANA Award) for "Best Overall Manufacturer, Branded Pharmaceuticals, Sales less than $300M" by the Healthcare Distribution Alliance (HDA). Awards were presented to outstanding pharmaceutical and consumer product manufacturers during the 2024 HDA Business and Leadership Conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado on June 11, 2024.

DIANA Award Presentation to Upsher-Smith. Left to right: Perry Fri (HDA), Dave Zitnak (Upsher-Smith), Mike Muzetras (Upsher-Smith), Brad Leonard (Upsher-Smith), Chip Davis (HDA)

"We are once again honored to receive this prestigious recognition from HDA," said Jim Maahs, Vice President, Specialty & Rare Disease. "Upsher-Smith has talented and dedicated employees who are passionate about serving the needs of our supply chain partners, ensuring that quality, consistency of supply, and enduring customer relationships remain at the forefront of all that we do."

Since 1959, the DIANA Awards have been presented to pharmaceutical and consumer product manufacturers that set the standard for excellence in developing innovative new product introductions and promotions, fostering exceptional trading partner relationships, advancing trade relations and creating business practices that benefit the entire healthcare supply chain. DIANA finalists and winners for Best Overall Company are chosen by HDA distributor members who judge companies based on several criteria including: knowledgeable salespeople, high-level customer service, demonstrated flexibility and creativity in marketing, and incorporation of new technologies to ensure product safety and security. Upsher-Smith is included among a distinguished group of present and past recipients who serve as models for leadership and innovation in the healthcare marketplace.

This latest accolade underscores Upsher-Smith's commitment to excellence, following significant investments in expanding its capabilities. Last year, the Company opened a new, 270,000 square foot, state-of-the-art, greenfield manufacturing facility in Maple Grove, Minnesota. The new site will offer fully up-to-date packaging and serialization capabilities and will support contract manufacturing for third parties. To learn more, visit http://www.upsher-smith.com/plant-c .

About Upsher-Smith

Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC, now a member of Bora Group, is a trusted U.S. pharmaceutical company that strives to improve the health and lives of patients through an unwavering commitment to high-quality products and sustainable growth. The company brings brands and generics to a wide array of customers, always backed by its attentive level of service, strong industry relationships, and dedication to uninterrupted product supply. For more information, visit www.upsher-smith.com .

About Bora

Founded in 2007, Bora Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. ("Bora" or "the Company", 6472.TW) now is the largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Taiwan with well-connected global distribution to supply more than 100 countries around the world. Headquartered in Taiwan, Bora has dedicated itself to becoming a global leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing by offering its clients the best quality, efficiency and reliability. For more information, visit https://bora-corp.com/.

About the Healthcare Distribution Alliance

The Healthcare Distribution Alliance (HDA) represents primary pharmaceutical distributors  the vital link between the nation's pharmaceutical manufacturers and pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics and others nationwide. Since 1876, HDA has helped members navigate regulations and innovations to get the right medicines to the right patients at the right time, safely and efficiently. The HDA Research Foundation, HDA's nonprofit charitable foundation, serves the healthcare industry by providing research and education focused on priority healthcare supply chain issues.

SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories
Valmet Oyj press release, June 19, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. EEST

ESPOO, Finland, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Valmet is to provide two complete tissue converting lines including packaging solutions to Metsa Tissue's mill in Mariestad, Sweden. The delivery includes digital services, training and support after the start-up. The order follows the earlier announced delivery of a Valmet Advantage DCT 200 tissue making line to the same mill. Both deliveries are part of Metsa Tissue's expansion and modernization project "The Future Mill", aiming at world-class environmental and operational performance.

The order of the two tissue converting lines was included in Valmet's orders received of the first quarter 2024. The value of the order will not be disclosed.

"We have a long history with Valmet and with the addition of converting technologies in their portfolio we clearly see the synergies with Valmet's end-to-end solution including tissue machine and converting lines. Their cutting-edge technologies and proven performance will ensure optimal production, a safer working environment and a more efficient tissue production," says Esa Paavolainen, Vice President Projects, Metsa Tissue.

"This is one of Valmet's first projects implementing the complete value chain, combining a Valmet tissue making line and converting technologies. It's a unique offering in the market. With it, we have developed a one-stop solution to actualize the integrated factory concept. We are proud to be part of Metsa Tissue's expansion journey," says Gianfranco Agnusdei, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Services, Tissue Converting business unit, Paper business line, Valmet.

Delivery's technical information

The delivery comprises of two Valmet Perini Constellation tissue converting lines and the packaging machinery needed for the production of rolled tissue. The machinery represents latest technology for efficiency, flexibility, and low energy consumption.

Information about Metsa Tissue

Metsa Group's Tissue and Greaseproof Papers business, or Metsa Tissue, produces hygiene products for households and professionals, and greaseproof papers for food preparation and packaging. The 2023 sales were EUR 1.3 billion, and they have approximately 2,500 employees. Metsa Group's parent company Metsaliitto Cooperative is owned by around 90,000 Finnish forest owners.

VALMET

Corporate Communications

For further information, please contact:

Samppa Ahmaniemi, Vice President, Tissue Converting business unit, Paper business line, tel. +39 0583 460552, [email protected]



Gianfranco Agnusdei, Vice President, Sales, Marketing and Services, Tissue Converting business unit, Paper business line, tel. +39 0583 460900, [email protected]

Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation and services for the pulp, paper and energy industries. With our automation systems and flow control solutions we serve an even wider base of process industries. Our more than 19,000 professionals around the world work close to our customers and are committed to moving our customers' performance forward  every day.

The company has over 220 years of industrial history and a strong track record in continuous improvement and renewal. Valmet's net sales in 2023 were approximately EUR 5.5 billion.

Valmet's shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki and the head office is in Espoo, Finland.

Follow us on valmet.com | X | X (IR) | LinkedIn | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram |

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https://news.cision.com/valmet-oyj/r/valmet-receives-the-second-order-of-converting-lines-to-metsa-tissue-in-mariestad--sweden,c4003450
FORT WORTH, Texas, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- VERTESS ( http://vertess.com ), a leading healthcare mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory firm, is pleased to announce the successful completion of two pharmacy transactions in Q2.

Savage Family Pharmacy (https://www.savagerx.com), a family-owned pharmacy serving the Pennsylvania community since 1922, was acquired by a private buyer in May 2024. Savage was the second part of the transaction overseen by VERTESS Managing Directors, Alan Hymowitz and Anna Elliott. The first part of the transaction closed in Q3 2023. Hymowitz and Elliott are grateful for their client's patience and perseverance through the transaction process. "We couldn't have asked for a more cooperative client. He was responsive and helpful throughout both processes and was, more importantly, focused on realizing the best outcome for his business," stated Elliott.

Apex Infusion Pharmacy (https://apex-iv.com), a fast-growing provider of ambulatory infusion therapy services based in California, was purchased by FFL Capital Partners (https://www.fflpartners.com/), a private equity firm focused on middle-market technology and healthcare services. Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Signal Hill, California, Apex Infusion provides high-quality, reliable care to patients in the comfort of their own homes or in ambulatory settings, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcomes. Apex coordinates professional interaction with our patient's physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers. They provide intravenous immunoglobulin, specialty infusion, total parental nutrition, and other therapeutic services. Apex currently operates 11 locations in California. Alan Hymowitz was the Managing Director who advised on this transaction, as well. He has several decades of pharmacy experience after owning, operating, and selling his own pharmacy, and now provides consulting and transactional advisory services. "Apex has such a strong track record and leadership team. It was truly a pleasure to find the right buyer who could take the company forward into its next growth phase," commented Hymowitz.

For more information, please contact Vaughne Glennie at [email protected] or +1.520.395.0244.

About VERTESS

VERTESS is an international healthcare-focused Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) advisory firm with expertise spanning diverse healthcare and human service verticals, ranging from behavioral health and intellectual/developmental disabilities to DME, pharmacies, home care/hospice, urgent care, life sciences, and other specialized services and products. Each VERTESS Managing Director has had executive experience in either launching or managing and ultimately successfully exiting a healthcare company.

SOURCE Vertess Healthcare Advisors, LLC
Shareholders holding approximately 19% of the outstanding Voxtur common shares express support for immediate board leadership change

Board leadership change is required to address value destruction and Voxtur's anemic performance

Al Qureshi , Voxtur's President of Capital Markets, to bring proven leadership track record and industry experience needed by Voxtur as new CEO

The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability urge all shareholders to vote for its highly qualified Board nominees

PLYMOUTH, Minn., June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ - A group of shareholders (the "Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability", "We", "Us", or "Our") of Voxtur Analytics Corp. (TSXV: VXTR) (OTCQB: VXTRF) ("Voxtur" or the "Company"), including Nicholas H. Smith, the former Chairman of Voxtur, announce that they are seeking to reconstitute the board of directors of Voxtur (the "Board") at Voxtur's Annual General and Special Meeting (the "AGSM") scheduled to be held virtually at https://virtualmeetings.tsxtrust.com/en/1654 (password: voxtur2024) on Friday, June 28, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time). The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability are nominating six highly qualified individuals at the AGSM.

The six nominees that the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability are nominating are Nicholas H. Smith, Alan P. Qureshi, Chris B. Bixby, Jeffrey A. Hilligoss, Chad Neel and Thomas J. Holthus (collectively, the "Shareholder Nominees"). For additional details on the Shareholder Nominees, see "Information Concerning the Shareholder Nominees" below.

As a Voxtur shareholder, you can VOTE FOR the Shareholder Nominees using the form of proxy or voting instruction form that you received with your AGSM materials from the Company. You must act quickly and before the deadline of 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time), on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 (or any earlier deadline indicated by your broker).

Please carefully read and follow the instructions below under the heading "How to Vote for the Shareholder Nominees" for more information about how to support the Shareholder Nominees.

The Time to Act is Now

The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability have lost confidence in the Board and the current management team's ability to execute the Company's business plan for the benefit of shareholders. This is evidenced by a significant deterioration in financial performance and share price, the lack of market liquidity for the Company's common shares and the absence of coherent strategic direction from management.

As a result, we believe the Board ought to immediately commence a strategic review process that will encompass an evaluation of the Company's current strategic direction, operations, market valuation and capital structure. The strategic review process ought to consider appropriate strategic, business and financial alternatives for the Company, which may include, without limitation, a corporate sale, a merger or other business combination, a sale of all or a portion of the Company's assets, strategic investment, or continuation as a standalone publicly traded company.

High Level Results Reflect the Symptoms

Voxtur's current management team has had sufficient time to successfully execute the Company's business plan but has failed to do so at the expense of shareholders. These failures have resulted in:

losses from continuing operations in each of the last five years, including a Q4 2023 adjusted EBITDA 1 loss from continuing operations of approximately C$3.9 million and Q1 2024 adjusted EBITDA loss from continuing operations of C$665,000 ;

loss from continuing operations of approximately and Q1 2024 adjusted EBITDA loss from continuing operations of ; an approximate 95% decline in the price of the Company's common shares from the peak price on April 18, 2022 , to its closing price on May 17, 2024 (the record date for the AGSM);

, to its closing price on (the record date for the AGSM); approximately C$307 million in cumulative losses from 2019 to Q1 2024 2 ;

in cumulative losses from 2019 to Q1 2024 ; an approximate 83% decline in liquidity of the common shares from Q1 2021 to Q1 2024 3 ; and

; and "going concern" opinions from the Company's auditor in each of the past two financial years.

The Company's pattern of losses can continue no longer. Voxtur's shareholders have a vote and we urge the shareholders to make their voice heard and to replace Voxtur's current Board. In the interim, the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability remain willing to engage directly and constructively with the Board to ensure a smooth transition after the AGSM.



_________________________________

1 Voxtur discloses adjusted EBITDA which is an unaudited non-GAAP measure and does not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other reporting issuers. For factors Voxtur believes are relevant in disclosing adjusted EBITDA, see Voxtur's financial statements and associated management discussion and analysis. Copies are available under Voxtur's SEDAR+_ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

2 Based on comprehensive losses (in thousands of Canadian dollars) of C$7,898 (Q1 2024  see unaudited condensed interim financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2024 and 2023), C$54,250 (2023  see audited annual consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022), C$206,385 (2022  see audited annual consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021), C$32,905 (2021  see audited annual consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021), C$4,884 (2020  see audited annual consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019) and $1,169 (2019  see audited annual consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018).

3 Trading in the Company's common shares was halted from October 29, 2020, to January 22, 2021.

Potential Causes of Voxtur's Anemic Performance

1. Voxtur lacks a coherent strategic plan.

Voxtur lacks a clear strategic plan, brand position and vision to execute and communicate to shareholders. In order to be successful, the Board and management must develop and execute a strategic plan and articulate the plan to the shareholders.

2. Voxtur's current management team lacks any material experience in the US residential mortgage market.

Not one of management's Board nominees has any material expertise in a residential PropTech4 or FinTech5 domain areas. As these domains pose unique challenges, the Company requires experienced leadership to formulate a credible and cogent go-to-market strategy.

3. Voxtur's corporate structure is costly and inappropriate for the size of the underlying business.

For too long, the Board has presided over run-away costs at the corporate level, which have not yielded results for the Company or its shareholders. In fact, to pay for these costs, the Board has diluted Voxtur's shareholders through equity raises. The Company's bloated corporate cost structure must be reigned in to achieve positive results for its shareholders. Examples of such bloated costs include:

Annual base salary of Gary Yeoman , Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of US$1,000,000 per his most recent employment agreement entered into on January 29, 2021 (Mr. Yeoman's annual base salary under his previous employment agreement with Voxtur, entered into on April 2, 2018 , was C$325,000 );



Consulting fees paid to Yeoman & Company Paralegal Professional Corporation (" YCP ") based on a consulting agreement entered into between YCP and Voxtur (the " Consulting Agreement ") for approximately C$388,000 . Two of the principals of YCP are the sons of Gary Yeoman . The term of the Consulting Agreement runs until December 2034 ; and



Payments of approximately C$462,750 in director and committee fees made over the last two fiscal years to two of Voxtur's proposed independent directors.



The Shareholder Nominees have both the experience and a clear plan to address the urgent challenges that Voxtur faces head-on.



__________________________________

4 PropTech is the intersection of the real estate industry with technology and software.

5 FinTech is software that seeks to make financial services and processes easier, faster and more secure.

Proposed Remedies

1. Install a Board and management team with expertise in the US residential mortgage market.

The majority of Voxtur's clients and prospective clients conduct business within the United States. The Shareholder Nominees possess over 135 years of leadership experience in the US residential mortgage sector. This level of expertise is not mirrored by the current Board or management team. In recent years, Voxtur has witnessed significant turnover in its executive team and Board, including the departure of the CEO, CFO, CRO and COO, among others. This turnover suggests potential issues at the Board and/or management levels. It is imperative for Voxtur to urgently recruit and retain leaders who have the requisite experience, vision, and confidence to implement the necessary operational changes and mortgage-focused innovations for a prosperous future. The Shareholder Nominees embody these attributes and are ready to lead the execution.

With good corporate governance principles in mind, the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability propose that Mr. Hilligoss serve as the Board's independent Chair and Chair of the Audit Committee and Mr. Smith serve as Chair of the Nomination-Compensation and Governance Committee. Messrs. Smith and Bixby will join Mr. Hilligoss to form the Company's Audit Committee and Messrs. Hilligoss and Bixby will join Mr. Smith to form the Nomination-Compensation and Governance Committee.

The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability further seek to appoint Alan P. Qureshi, the Company's current President of Capital Markets, as the Chief Executive Officer of the Company. As further described below, Mr. Qureshi amply possesses both the requisite leadership track record and industry experience to right the ship and to execute on a value-creating business plan for all Voxtur shareholders.

2. Implement a long-term strategic plan for sustainable shareholder performance.

The Shareholder Nominees are committed to a long-term strategy, rather than a short-term trading approach in order to generate sustainable performance for all shareholders. The Shareholder Nominees will implement a clear strategy and vision for the future, which is expected to include stringent expense management and operational enhancements to improve profit margins. We anticipate a swift establishment of:

(i) a strategic framework for core and non-core assets;

(ii) an operational vision, which emphasizes the expansion of the Blue Water (as defined herein) franchise; and

(iii) a comprehensive operational plan aimed at managing expenses, optimizing the corporate structure, and maximizing shareholder returns.

3. Conduct a strategic asset review to identify opportunities for value creation.

Drawing upon their extensive experience in the US mortgage market, the Shareholder Nominees will assess the Company's core and non-core assets and explore strategic alternatives to enhance shareholder value.

4. Enhance the transparency of financial reporting.

Voxtur's quarterly reporting is superficial and lacks key insights to the Company's business. For the Company's stock price to recover, the Shareholder Nominees believe that investors require quality information (e.g., insight to the industry) so they can make informed business decisions. As a result, the Shareholder Nominees intend to implement business unit-specific reporting with consistent and transparent information, and to provide clear and regular reporting intervals.

5. Optimize Voxtur's corporate structure.

With trailing selling and business development, and general and administration expenses exceeding C$8.7 million for Q1 2024, Voxtur is projected to incur approximately C$35 million in annual expenses. These figures are unsustainable for a company of Voxtur's scale and the Company's financial statements indicate that it cannot maintain the current level of expenditures. While we acknowledge current management's recognition of the Blue Water subsidiary's growth potential, the execution in terms of reporting, expense management, and corporate overhead has been deficient, resulting in what appears to be an untenable financial burden for the Company. The Shareholder Nominees intend to promptly address excessive corporate spending, minimize bureaucracy, and execute a strategic vision. They also intend to leverage the existing management team from Blue Water (a subsidiary of the Company) and supplement that with external public company focused resources for hire in order to reduce costs dramatically and streamline results.

6. Transformational Leadership for Voxtur

The necessary changes for Voxtur will not be without challenges. Transformation must originate from the top, starting with the Board leadership. This Board requires leaders who possess credibility, operational acumen, relevant industry experience, and a robust vision for the future, particularly during challenging times. Furthermore, it is essential for Voxtur's employees to feel understood and for clients to be assured that their voices are being heard.

Information Concerning the Shareholder Nominees

The six nominees that the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability are nominating are Nicholas H. Smith, Alan P. Qureshi, Chris B. Bixby, Jeffrey A. Hilligoss, Chad Neel and Thomas J. Holthus. A brief biography for each of the Shareholder Nominees is set out below:

Nicholas H. Smith : is the Founder, Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of Rice Park, overseeing all aspects of Rice Park's strategies and operations. Mr. Smith brings nearly 25 years of experience to his role. Before founding Rice Park, Mr. Smith served as Chief Investment Officer of Blackstone's private residential mortgage real estate investment trust and was the Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Finance of America Companies (NYSE: FOA), a Blackstone portfolio company. Prior to Blackstone, Mr. Smith served as Managing Director of Two Harbors Investment Corp (NYSE: TWO), where he built and led the investment platform for mortgage servicing rights and residential whole loans. From 2004 to 2012, Mr. Smith served in a variety of areas for Green Tree Investment Management ("GTIM"). As Chief Investment Officer, he was responsible for the residential mortgage investment platform of Green Tree Holdings, GTIM's parent company, and its affiliate, Green Tree Servicing. He also served as the Senior Portfolio Manager for the SerVertis Master Fund I LP, a US$1.45 billion re-performing mortgage loan investment fund co-managed by GTIM. Mr. Smith worked at GMAC ResCap (formerly GMAC-RFC) from 1998 to 2004, and has served in a variety of roles on the mortgage trading desk and in corporate development, where he led the valuation of equity investments in U.S., Asian and European consumer finance companies.

Mr. Smith studied economics as an undergraduate at the University of Minnesota and was a Master of Science, Quantitative Finance candidate at the University of London; he is currently a member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society of Minnesota.

Alan P. Qureshi : serves as the President of Blue Water Financial Technologies Holding Company, LLC ("Blue Water"), whose mission is to digitize the mortgage asset primary and secondary market(s). Blue Water, as a key subsidiary, significantly drives revenue for its parent company, Voxtur. With over 25 years of experience in the Capital Markets and Mortgage Industry, Mr. Qureshi oversees both the Blue Water Financial Technologies, LLC a registered investment advisor (in the United States) and Blue Water Financial Technologies Services, LLC, the technology arm of the Blue Water. which specializes in the automated valuation, trading, quality assurance, transfer and diligence of various mortgage assets. Following the acquisition of Blue Water in 2022, Mr. Qureshi became a significant shareholder of Voxtur, having invested additional proceeds into the company. Since the acquisition, Mr. Qureshi and his team have expanded Blue Water's suite of products and services to include pre-close quality assurance, loan level optimization, warehouse solutions, third party rating review ready solutions and token-ready services. Additionally, Mr. Qureshi has added significant scale to the platform with now greater than 500 originators currently engaged through Blue Water's transaction platform(s). Lastly, Mr. Qureshi has added additional platforms and products  to include whole loan, non-qualified mortgages (non-qm), reverse mortgages and second liens. Prior to co-founding Blue Water with a like-minded team of innovators and capital markets experts in 2018, Mr. Qureshi served as the President of Incenter Portfolio Advisors, and as the Head of Mortgage Servicing Hedging and Hedging Analytics at U.S. Bank where he conceptualized and implemented the banks model shift from a Static valuation model to OAS. Earlier in his career, Mr. Qureshi also held MSR, analytic, hedging and trading appointments for JP Morgan, Merrill Lynch, and Diamondback Capital.

Mr. Qureshi holds a Bachelor of Applied Science and Engineering from the University of Toronto. He also obtained his Master of Business Administration from New York University's Stern School with a specialization in Finance and Economics, and holds dual citizenship from both Canada and the United States of America.

Chris B. Bixby : Mr. Bixby has a diverse background, having served both in investment and entrepreneurial roles. Mr. Bixby is Managing Director, Strategic Equity Investing for Rice Park Capital Management and is responsible for sourcing, underwriting, structuring and managing investments in early to mid-stage technology companies operating in the residential and commercial real estate, mortgage, and payments sectors. He is also Chair of the Board at Candor Technology, Inc. ("Candor Technology"), an automated underwriting platform, and serves as an advisory board member for several PropTech companies. Prior to Rice Park, Chris was Vice President of Growth at Sezzle, a rapidly growing FinTech, where he was focused on building strategic partnerships with enterprise retailers. He joined pre-IPO as Vice President of Marketing and led the successful rebranding efforts. Mr. Bixby began his career on Wall Street, working as an investment banking analyst in mergers and acquisitions at Jefferies, LLC, and later as a private equity associate at Castle Harlan, a US$1 billion fund, where he invested in middle-market private equity transactions.

Mr. Bixby received his A.B. from Bowdoin College, majoring in Economics and Government & Legal Studies. He earned his MBA from Harvard Business School.

Jeffrey A. Hilligoss : Mr. Hilligoss is an accomplished business leader with a 36-year track record of building and leading high-performing and cross-organizational teams to create value, manage risk, and develop resilient practices in the financial markets. Mr. Hilligoss has demonstrated success throughout his career in C-Suite, functional, and transactional leadership roles with Castlelake L.P, DiTech Holdings (Green Tree Investment Management), GMAC ResCap, Cargill Financial Services Corp., US Bank, and HSBC. Mr. Hilligoss has functional expertise as the chief executive of an SEC-registered alternative investment adviser and roles leading corporate strategy, business development, risk management, and special and distressed situations, including a track record of successful business formations, turnarounds, acquisitions, and divestitures. In 2016, Mr. Hilligoss founded The Upper Bound, an independent boutique business advisory, consulting, and interim management services practice, serving alternative asset managers, institutional investors, portfolio companies, and operating platforms active in the private capital markets.

Mr. Hilligoss holds a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from Indiana University (1985), an MBA from the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University (1987), and is a graduate of the Wharton/Spencer Stuart Director's Institute at the University of Pennsylvania (1996).

Chad Neel : Mr. Neel has over twenty-five years of experience in the mortgage industry, with a successful background running multiple business lines from technology startup companies to large national service providers, including Appraisal Management Companies (AMC), Asset Management, Auction, Escrow/Closing Management, Field Services, Legal Services, and National Title Operations. He has been involved in multiple startup businesses and serves on various executive and advisory boards. Mr. Neel was the CEO of the company that introduced and patented the first online trading exchange for pricing and locking loans. He then worked for over ten years, running multiple business lines for Fidelity National Financial Financial/Lender Processing Services, with a history of turning around troubled businesses and experience managing volumes that exceeded a million service transactions per month. Most recently, he serves as the Chief Executive of McCarthy & Holthus, LLP, a multistate law firm recognized as a leading service provider.

Mr. Neel has his Bachelors Degree in Finance and Accounting from Oklahoma State University in 1991.

Thomas J. Holthus : Thomas J. Holthus is a founding partner of McCarthy & Holthus, LLP, a multi-jurisdictional law firm based in San Diego, California. Mr. Holthus has received an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale Hubbell. Mr. Holthus focuses on representing banks and other financial institutions in creditor's rights involving loan workouts, litigation, foreclosure, and bankruptcy matters. Mr. Holthus is licensed to practice law in the states of California, Nevada, and Nebraska. Mr. Holthus has been a partner in McCarthy & Holthus, LLP since 1999.

Mr. Holthus received his juris doctorate from California Western School of Law in 1984 and a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics from Arizona State University in 1980.

Messrs. Smith and Bixby both have extensive experience in the PropTech field and directly and indirectly hold and/or manage investments and positions with other PropTech ventures. Such investments and positions are with businesses that deal in mortgage servicing rights, including Candor Technology. The Shareholder Nominees believe that the prior and current PropTech experiences of Messrs. Smith and Bixby are complementary to, and do not conflict with, the proposed strategic review process of the Company since, among other things, total size of the mortgage market is vast in comparison to the market size of any one business in mortgage space and the prior PropTech experience gained by Messrs Smith and Bixby is immensely valuable to understand the competitive landscape faced by the Company and to shape the Company's strategy going forward.

Additional information concerning the Shareholder Nominees can be found in an information document (the "Information Document") filed by the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca containing the disclosure required under section 9.2(6) of National Instrument 51-102  Continuous Disclosure Obligations ("NI 51-102") in respect of the Shareholder Nominees. Shareholders are strongly encouraged to review the Information Document.

As of the date of this press release, shareholders holding approximately 139,277,306 common shares of Voxtur have signed support letters in favor of the Shareholder Nominees, representing approximately 19.3% of the total issued and outstanding common shares of Voxtur as of the record date for the AGSM.

How to Vote for the Shareholder Nominees

You can vote for the Shareholder Nominees using the form of proxy or voting instruction form that you received with your materials for the AGSM by doing the following prior to 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time), on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 (or any earlier deadline indicated by your broker).

insert the names " Nicholas H. Smith , or failing him, Alan P. Qureshi " (the " Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability Representatives ") as your proxyholder on the reverse side of the proxy form or voting instruction form, in the blank space labeled, "PLEASE PRINT APPOINTEE NAME" that is provided;





, or failing him, " (the " ") as your proxyholder on the reverse side of the proxy form or voting instruction form, in the blank space labeled, "PLEASE PRINT APPOINTEE NAME" that is provided; do not provide any voting instructions for the election of directors (i.e., do not check any of the "for" or "withhold" boxes for any of management's director nominees);





do not provide any voting instructions for setting the number of directors at four (i.e., do not check either of the "for" or "against" boxes); and





otherwise properly complete, sign, date and return your form of proxy or voting instruction form (either by registered mail or courier, facsimile, or via the Internet) by carefully following the instructions provided on your form of proxy or voting instruction form. You cannot vote by telephone if you want to support the Shareholder Nominees.

Please also send a copy of your form of proxy or voting instruction form (or a written confirmation if you vote via the Internet) to the attention of Nicholas H. Smith by email to: [email protected].

If you appoint the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability Representatives as your proxyholder with discretionary authority for the election of directors, your common shares will be voted FOR the Shareholders Nominees.

Even if you have already voted for management's director nominees, you can change your vote by executing another form of proxy bearing a later date and depositing it prior to 9:00 a.m. (Eastern Time), on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, if you are a registered shareholder. If you are a beneficial shareholder who has voted by proxy through your intermediary, please contact your intermediary immediately to obtain instructions on the procedures you need to follow to change your voting instructions. The change or revocation of voting instructions by a beneficial shareholder can take several days or longer to complete and, accordingly, needs to be completed well in advance of the deadline set by your intermediary or its service company.

If you have misplaced your form of proxy or voting instruction form, or if you have any questions or need assistance in completing and submitting your proxy or voting instruction form or changing your vote, please contact Nicholas H. Smith by email to: [email protected].

YOUR VOTE IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. PLEASE VOTE NO LATERTHAN 9:00 a.m. (EASTERN TIME) ON WEDNESDAY , JUNE 26, 2024 (OR EARLIER IF REQUIRED BY YOUR BROKER).

Additional Information | Information in Support of Public Broadcast Exemption

The following information is provided in accordance with Canadian corporate and securities laws applicable to public broadcast solicitations. The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability are relying on the exemption under section 9.2(4) of NI 51-102 and section 112 (1.2) of the Ontario Business Corporations Act to make this public broadcast solicitation.

This solicitation is being made by the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability and not by or on behalf of the management of Voxtur. The registered office address of Voxtur is located at 543 Ridout Street N, London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 2PB.

The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability have filed this press release containing the information required by section 9.2(4)(c) of NI 51-102 and has filed the Information Document containing the information required by section 9.2(6) of NI 51-102 and Form 51-102F5 - Information Circular in respect of the Shareholder Nominees on the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability may solicit proxies in reliance upon the public broadcast exemption to the solicitation requirements under applicable Canadian corporate and securities laws, conveyed by way of public broadcast, including through press releases, speeches or publications, and by any other manner permitted under applicable Canadian laws. All costs incurred for the solicitation will be borne by the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability.

A registered holder of common shares of Voxtur that gives a proxy may revoke it: (a) by completing and signing a proxy bearing a later date and depositing it in accordance with the instructions contained in Voxtur's management information circular; (b) by depositing an instrument in writing revoking the proxy executed by the shareholder or by the shareholder's attorney authorized in writing (i) at Voxtur's registered office at any time up to and including the last business day preceding the day of the AGSM or any adjournment thereof at which the proxy is to be used, or (ii) with the Chair of the AGSM immediately prior to the AGSM being called to order or any adjournment thereof; or (c) in any other manner permitted by law.

A non-registered holder of common shares of Voxtur will be entitled to revoke a form of proxy or voting instruction form given to an intermediary at any time by written notice to the intermediary in accordance with the instructions given to the non-registered holder by its intermediary. It should be noted that revocation of proxies or voting instructions by a non-registered holder can take several days or even longer to complete and, accordingly, any such revocation should be completed well in advance of the deadline given in the form of proxy or voting instruction form by the intermediary or its service company to ensure it is effective.

As of the date of this press release, shareholders holding approximately 139,277,306 common shares of Voxtur have signed support letters in favor of the Shareholder Nominees, representing approximately 19.3% of the total issued and outstanding common shares of Voxtur as of the record date for the AGSM.

Additional Information | Interest in Matters to be Acted Upon at the AGSM

Mr. Qureshi's employment agreement with Blue Water Financial Technologies, LLC (a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of the Company) provides that the severance amount for termination without cause, or resignation by Mr. Qureshi citing a "good reason" (as defined in the employment agreement), within six (6) months prior to or twelve (12) months after a "change in control" (which includes the election of the Shareholder Nominees to the Board, in addition to other events described in the employment agreement), be equal to three times Mr. Qureshi's annual base salary then in effect and his average annual incentive compensation during the term of his employment.

With the exception of the foregoing, to the knowledge of Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability, none of the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability or any of the Shareholder Nominees or any of their respective associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, by way of beneficial ownership of securities or otherwise, in any matter currently known to be acted upon at the AGSM other than the election of directors. In addition, none of the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability or any of the Shareholder Nominees or any of their respective associates or affiliates has any material interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction since the beginning of the Company's most recently completed financial year or in any proposed transaction that has materially affected or would materially affect the Company or any of its subsidiaries.

Disclaimer

The information contained or referenced herein is for information purposes only in order to provide the views of the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability and the matters which the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability believe to be of concern to shareholders described herein. The information is not tailored to specific investment objections, the financial situations, suitability, or particular need of any specific person(s) who may receive the information, and should not be taken as advice in considering the merits of any investment decision. The views expressed herein represent the views and options of the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability, whose opinions may change at any time and which are based on the analyses of the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. In general, forward-looking information refers to disclosure about future conditions, courses of action, and events. Forward-looking information in this press release may include, but is not limited to, statements of Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability regarding (i) the AGSM, including the intention of the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability to solicit proxies in connection therewith, (ii) the proposed reconstitution of the Board, (iii) the future of the Company and (iv) matters relating to the Company, including its business, operations, financial condition and strategic plan. All statements contained in this press release that are not clearly historical in nature or that necessarily depend on future events are forwardlooking, and the use of any of the words "anticipates", "believes", "expects", "intends", "plans", "will", "would", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations of the Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability and currently available information. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, involve certain risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, and are based upon assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. The Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability undertake no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities legislation.

Further Information

SOURCE Voxtur Shareholders for Accountability
VANCOUVER, BC, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Yukon Metals Corp. (CSE: YMC) (FSE: E770) is pleased to announce that the Company's shares have been accepted for listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (the "FSE"), under the symbol "E770".

"Yukon Metals is committed to provide long-term liquidity to investors, which is enhanced by listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, one of the world's largest trading markets" said Rory Quinn, Chief Executive Officer. "Yukon Metals will support this listing with marketing activity in Europe and German speaking markets which will include German translation of news releases. I look forward to communicating more listing success in the coming weeks, further increasing access to our shares across key markets."

About Yukon Metals Corp.

Yukon Metals represents a property portfolio built on over 30 years of prospecting by the Berdahl family, the prospecting team behind Snowline Gold's portfolio of primary gold assets. The Yukon Metals portfolio consists primarily of copper-gold and silver-lead-zinc assets, with a substantial gold and silver component. The Company is led by an experienced Board of Directors and Management Team across technical, exploration and finance disciplines.

Yukon Metals is focused on fostering sustainable growth and prosperity within Yukon's local communities, while simultaneously enhancing shareholder value. Our strategy centers around inclusivity and shared prosperity, offering both community members and investors the chance to contribute to, and benefit from, our ventures.

The Yukon

The Yukon ranks 10th most prospective for mineral potential across global jurisdictions according to the Fraser Institute (Fraser Institute Survey of Mining Companies 2023) and is host to a highly experienced and conscientious local workforce, created by a long culture of exploration coupled with deep respect for the land. Recent major discoveries with local roots such as Snowline Gold's (SGD) Rogue Project - Valley Discovery, demonstrate the Yukon's potential to generate fresh district-scale mining opportunities.

For more information about Yukon Metals, please contact:

Rory Quinn, President & CEO

Yukon Metals Corp.

Email: [email protected]

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains certain forward-looking information, including information about the incremental release from escrow of the Consideration Shares, the resumption of trading of the Common Shares and the Company's future plans and intentions. Wherever possible, words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "expect", "plan", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict" or "potential" or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify the forward-looking information. These statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof.

Forward-looking information involves significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those discussed or implied in the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the incremental release from escrow of the Consideration Shares; the resumption of trading of the Common Shares; and other risks and uncertainties. See the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's listing statement dated May 30, 2024, available under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with the forward-looking information. The forward-looking information is made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise the information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2428353/4757483/Yukon_Metals_Corp_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Yukon Metals Corp.
MELBOURNE, AustraliaSensuous has announced that Raging Bull Capsules has been awarded Best New Product at the Australian Adult Industry Awards. The event at Rydges Melbourne celebrated excellence and innovation within the industry, recognizing leaders shaping the future of adult products and services.

Co-CEOs Ann Reidy and Keith Jones, along with marketing executive Lauren Mills and global business development manager Andrew Tavares, attended the awards ceremony on behalf of Sensuous. T

"We are thrilled and honored to receive this award," said Reidy. "It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are committed to providing the best products to our customers, and this recognition motivates us to continue pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the industry."

Jones added, "The Raging Bull Capsules represent our vision for innovation and quality. We are grateful to the Australian Adult Industry Awards for recognizing our efforts and to our loyal customers for their unwavering support."

For more information, visit sensuous.com.au.
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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
Washington, June 19 : Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea is "cause for great concern", the US government said.

"The deepening cooperation between Russia and North Korea is something that should be of concern," the US Department of Defence spokesman Pat Ryder said on Tuesday in Washington.

"Especially to anyone interested in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean peninsula, but also supporting the people of Ukraine as they continue to fight against Russian aggression," Ryder added.

White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre said that the delivery of weapons from North Korea had contributed to Russia being able to wage its brutal war in Ukraine.

"We don't believe any country should give Putin a platform to promote the war of aggression that we're currently seeing in Ukraine and Russia," Jean-Pierre said, adding that the war "is blatantly violating the UN Charter and working to undermine the international system".

North Korea, which is largely isolated internationally due to its nuclear weapons programme, has been accused by Ukraine's Western allies of supplying weapons and ammunition to Russia.

The governments in Moscow and Pyongyang have repeatedly dismissed those claims.

Putin was received by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang on Tuesday evening.

According to observers, the two-day visit will, among other things, focus on arms deliveries from Pyongyang, which Moscow intends to use in its war against Ukraine.

--IANS/DPA

int/khz
Washington, June 19 : NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stressed the importance of expanding cooperation between the Western military alliance and partners in the Indo-Pacific region, amid a visit to North Korea by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"Putin's visit to North Korea demonstrates and confirms the very close alignment between Russia and authoritarian states like North Korea, but also China and Iran," Stoltenberg said at a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on Tuesday.

"This also demonstrates that our security is not regional. It's global. What happens in Europe matters for Asia, and what happens in Asia matters for us," Stoltenberg said, adding "This is demonstrated in Ukraine, where Iran, North Korea, and China are propping up, fuelling Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine".

The NATO Chief went on to say that the "idea that we can divide security into regional theatres doesn't work anymore... Everything is intertwined and therefore we need to address these challenges together".

Stoltenberg also highlighted concerns about Moscow's potential support for Pyongyang "when it comes to supporting their missile and nuclear programmes," stressing this is another reason to strengthen cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Putin arrived in North Korea on Tuesday evening for a two-day state visit against the backdrop of Russia's war with Ukraine.

The Kremlin leader was received at the airport by North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un, according to Russian news agency Interfax.

According to observers, the leaders will discuss arms deliveries from Pyongyang, among other things.
Lucknow, June 19 : The Yogi Adityanath government will host 'The Bodhi Yatra 2024' in New Delhi on June 28, a government spokesman said.

This is an effort to boost Buddhist pilgrimage tourism and attract devotees and tourists from across the globe to Uttar Pradesh's renowned Buddhist sites.

The day-long event aims to highlight the remarkable life journey of Lord Buddha through Uttar Pradesh's Buddhist heritage sites, a government spokesman added.

The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has commenced preparations for the programme.

The event will showcase Uttar Pradesh's significant contributions to Buddhist art and culture, emphasising the state's historical connection and the profound importance of Lord Buddha through various artistic presentations.

It is anticipated that guests from both within India and abroad will be invited to the programme, with a dinner planned in their honour. Interactive cultural sessions will be a key feature of 'The Bodhi Yatra' event. The venue for the programme will be finalised shortly, the spokesman said.

To ensure the successful execution of the programme and all associated tasks, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has issued a request for proposal (RFP) to solicit applications from event management agencies.

The agency selected through the e-tender process, will be responsible for meticulously showcasing the Buddhist circuit sites in Uttar Pradesh during the programme.

Additionally, they will be tasked with arranging the cultural evening stage, managing branding and decoration, handling flower arrangements, venue branding, and organising the supply and distribution of souvenir kits.

The selected event management agency will be asked to arrange artists, anchors, audience seating, technical support, maintenance, and all necessary manpower for the cultural session.

They will be responsible for coordinating the entire programme with departmental officials and ensuring audio setup, lighting, sound systems, LED screens, and video supply for the event.
New York, June 19 : E-commerce giant Amazon has been fined nearly $6 million for violating labour laws in the state of California in the US.

The California Department of Industrial Relations said in a statement that the e-commerce major didn't provide employees written notice of quotas they have to follow  a requirement of the Warehouse Quotas law.

"The employer argued they did not need a quota system because they use a peer-to-peer evaluation system," according to the statement.

The law requires warehouse employers to provide employees the number of tasks they need to perform per hour and any discipline that could come from not meeting the quota.

"The peer-to-peer system that Amazon was using in these two warehouses is exactly the kind of system that the Warehouse Quotas law was put in place to prevent," said Labour Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower.

"Undisclosed quotas expose workers to increased pressure to work faster and can lead to higher injury rates and other violations by forcing workers to skip breaks," Garcia-Brower added.

The Labour Commissioner's Office began its initial inspection on September 22, 2022.

The investigation found there were 59,017 violations for the Moreno Valley and Redlands warehouses from October 20, 2023 to March 9, 2024.
Patna, June 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday will inaugurate the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir.

PM Modi in a post on X said the day is special for the education sector as the new campus would be inaugurated and would cater to the educational needs of the youths.

He said, "It's a very special day for our education sector. At around 10:30 AM today, the new campus of the Nalanda University would be inaugurated at Rajgir. Nalanda has a strong connect with our glorious past. This university will surely go a long way in catering to the educational needs of the youth."

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and ambassadors of 17 nations will attend the event. The university's new campus is close to the site of the ancient ruins of Nalanda.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar will also be present with the Prime Minister.

This will be PM Modi's first visit to Bihar after the Lok Sabha election.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will plant a sapling of the Bodhi tree brought from Gaya.

During the Prime Minister's visit, tight security arrangements have been made.

PM Modi will arrive in Gaya by special plane and will reach Nalanda University by an Army helicopter.

The district police have barricaded both sides of the road from Rajgir to Nalanda for security purposes. All the hotels in the city have also been thoroughly checked.

Nalanda University Vice Chancellor Abhay Kumar Singh while describing the method adopted to build the university said careful techniques were adopted so that the new campus blended with the existing ancient structure.

He said that a pond was excavated for the construction work. Raw bricks were prepared from the soil obtained from the excavation which were not baked but prepared by compressing them after adding chemicals. Boring was not done for water in its construction work, rather the construction work was done by collecting rainwater in the pond that was specially dug for the purpose, said the Vice Chancellor.

"The world's largest library has also been built in this university. More than three lakh books and manuscripts will be kept there. Students from many countries are already receiving an education here," the V-C said.

"Preparations for the arrival of the Prime Minister have been completed. PM Modi will plant a Mahabodhi sapling on the university campus before the inauguration. The arrangement for which has been done by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar," he said.

The foundation stone of Nalanda University was laid in 2016. "After a special initiative of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, 455 acres of land were acquired in Rajgir and handed over to the university administration," Singh said.

Nalanda University has 24 large buildings constructed for Rs 1,749 crore.

--IANS.

ajk/dpb
New Delhi, June 19 : PC and printer major HP Inc on Wednesday announced the pre-booking of its next-generation AI PCs in India for businesses, creators and retail customers.

HP EliteBook Ultra and HP OmniBook X laptops can be booked either through HP partners or via the HP online store, the company said in a statement.

While HP EliteBook Ultra is priced at Rs 1,69,934, HP OmniBook X would cost Rs 1,39,999.

Both the laptops are are built on the latest ARM architecture.

These are powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor with a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU), capable of 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS).

These laptops feature the thinnest design in their class and offer up to 26 hours of battery life, claimed the company.

The HP 'AI Companion' feature uses AI to optimise performance and bring powerful AI tools locally onto the device.

Equipped with the new Poly Camera Pro, the devices enhance virtual interactions with AI features like Spotlight and Auto Framing, ensuring efficient performance and extended battery life.

"As a Microsoft secured-core PC, it ensures robust hardware security, safeguarding user data and credentials," said the company.
New Delhi, June 19 : A lot of people like to eat, but Shashank 'Shanky' Jayakumar and Sid Mewara, who are more famous as The Big Forkers (sorry, they are not exactly politically correct!), have travelled the world, talking all the way, for their love of food.

Sid, a Florida chef-turned-Wharton-trained-investment-banker living in Goa, was in Italy some years ago, getting hard-nosed over a business deal, when he received a call from Shanky, his first cousin (their parents are brother and sister), who's also a techpreneur and World Bank consultant, asking for his opinion on where to have the best paella in Spain.

Sid not only had the answer, but also got so excited about his cousin getting to have the best paella in Spain, that he flew off to Valencia to join Shanky and partake of the treat. They then joined a group of friends who were travelling in the footsteps of chef, television star and best-selling author Anthony Bourdain to discover the culinary secrets of southern Europe.

During the trip, seeing the lengths they were prepared to go to have the best risotto, one of their mates, who's a social media influencer, suggested that Sid and Shanky should launch their own YouTube channel so that they could keep travelling for food and talking about it, and perhaps, also make some money out of their work.

Shanky may have travelled, eaten well and developed a personality that reflects his passion for all things edible, but he had no media experience. And the closest that Sid ever came to becoming famous was to dash off an email on Yahoo! to Discovery Channel pitching for a programme. That was 23 years ago -- and Discovery did not bother to reply.

But they were confident they could talk non-stop, and Shanky, being a techie based out of Bengaluru, knew enough people who could do a decent job producing YouTube videos.

Covid and the lockdowns intervened, forcing them to can their plan, but they used the time to seed the idea of 'The Big Forkers', a YouTube channel that makes an immediate impression for its superior production values, conversational format and creative use of graphics to convey information that channel hosts tend to meander with (often exposing their rather limited knowledge of the language of food).

On their channel, as the irreverent and voluble Sid and Shanky travel from the Shetty bars of Mumbai to Singapore, where they find out what real Chilli Chicken looks and tastes like, and to the barbecue haunts of 'brisket country' Texas, they also make sure they do not miss the laphing at Humayunpur in New Delhi or the 'holige' at Nalapakkas in Bengaluru.

In between, they take viewers on food journeys that definitely leave them salivating, but if Sid and Shanky find Natraj's 'aloo tikki' to be underwhelming, they won't hold back their punches and try to be polite. They don't overload the episodes with 'gyan', leaving that job to graphics that have a street art feel to them.

Not that their viewers are allergic to knowledge. We stumbled upon one who explained why the word 'habashi' in the name of the popular halwa selling near Delhi's Jama Masjid isn't a pejorative reference to its dark colour because of the caramelised sugar, but points to its possible origin in Ethiopia (Al Habash), a country with which India has had old ties.

Their most recent season has brought them to Delhi, where they travel from the bylanes of Chandni Chowk, sampling the chaats and Jung Bahadur's kachoris, to the Jama Masjid neighbourhood populated by such legends as Kallu (nihari), Aslam (butter chicken), Haji Kallan Bawarchi (dal gosht), and of course, Karim's and Al Jawahar.

And then they go to Delhi's North-East hub, Humayunpur, where they take us to on delicious journey across Yo Tibet, Lha Kitchen, Ao Assam and Hornbill -- restaurants that stand out for pork with laal shaak, duck curry and meat laphing, apart from the more predictable momos and thukpas.

It is not just their passion for food, and the unscripted nature of their channel, but their head for business that also makes Shanky and Sid stand apart. As Sid put it, most people driving Indian YouTube channels aren't able to monetise their work even if they have a massive reach because vast audiences don't necessarily translate into significant 'wallet power'.

What they have successfully shown to their partners, notably alcohol brands, is that they may have a subscriber base that can be measured in tens of thousands, but they are all people with wallet power, with whom they engage through events and the Forkers Dining Club, a celebratory WhatsApp group, where members from across the country share information about food and also their meal experiences.

Shanky and Sid now plan to set up a media company to advise people like them, who have a passion for food and knowledge to share, about how to maximise returns from their YouTube channels. They wish to put their knowledge of business to good use not just for themselves.

Will their head for business get to bond with what their heart dictates? If they are able to seal the marriage between heart and head, they may just end the eternal existential dilemma of food YouTubers, who are forever torn between extravagant love and elusive money.
New Delhi, June 19 : Even as the Canadian Parliament 'honoured' a Khalistani terrorist, the Indian Consulate in Vancouver reminded the world of the bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka) in which 329 people, including 86 children, were killed.

The 'India in Vancouver', the official Twitter account of the Consulate General of India in Vancouver in a post on Wednesday said, "India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat."

"23 June 2024 marks the 39th Anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation," mentioned the post.

The consulate will also hold a Memorial Service at 1830 hrs on June 23 at the Air India Memorial at Stanley Park's Ceperley Playground area.

"@cgivancouver encourages members of the Indian Diaspora to join the event in a show of solidarity against terrorism," said the consulate in the post.

As India reminds the world of the horrors of terrorism, the Canadian Parliament marked the first anniversary of the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar by holding a moment of silence in the House of Commons on Tuesday.

This comes days after Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said that there is an "alignment on several big issues" with India and he sees an "opportunity" to engage with the new Indian government...".

Trudeau had said this after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Italy during the G7 summit.

Nijjar was gunned down in Canada's Surrey, outside a parking lot on June 18 last year.

India had put him on a list of 'designated terrorists' under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Canada has alleged that Indian officials were involved in the killing but has failed to provide evidence of this. This has strained ties between Ottawa and New Delhi.

India has been maintaining that the main issue between the two countries is that of Canada giving space to pro-Khalistan elements operating from Canadian soil with impunity.
New Delhi, June 19 : The BJP hit back at Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday for allegedly peddling 'fakery' after the Allahabad High Court found discrepancies in the claims of NEET aspirant Ayushi Patel regarding a damaged OMR answer sheet.

The High Court, terming it as a case of "forged documents," dismissed the petition filed by Ayushi Patel and said on Tuesday that the National Testing Agency (NTA) was free to take legal action.

Amid a blazing row over 'irregularities' in the 2024 NEET-UG exam, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had earlier attacked the BJP-led NDA government for not fixing accountability of agencies conducting the exam.

Posting a video of Ayushi Patel on 'X', she said that the government should seriously consider the exam system.

On Wednesday, BJP Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla taking to 'X', said, "Priyanka Vadra tweeted a video of Ayushi Patel making some outlandish claims about her result in the NEET exam, including torn OMR, lesser marks being given to her. It turns out this girl Ayushi Patel who claimed her OMR was torn and marks were not correct, had provided fake documents even to the court & made false claims about her OMR being torn. NTA provided all the original documents to court after which she withdrew her petition."

"Ayushi Patel in the past had claimed she had made Covid vaccine too! Yes, that is the kind of person Congress used to push fakery," Poonawalla claimed.

"But what will Priyanka Vadra do? Will she apologise? This isn't the first time fakery is being peddled by Congress' brother-sister duo. If @ajeetbharti quotes Acharya Krishnam he is facing FIR but Priyanka Vadra is a queen. She can get away with any amount of lies?," he claimed.

Social media influencer Ajeet Bharti has been booked by Bengaluru Police for "spreading enmity between religious groups through false claims."

"Should Priyanka Vadra herself not be booked for sharing & amplifying such lies? Will the media even ask her any basic questions? Will the media ask her why she was creating havoc using such fakery? Is she not accountable at all?" Poonawalla asked.
Kolkata, June 19 : The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, on Wednesday said that he has rejected a "conditional permission" from Kolkata Police to stage a peaceful sit-in demonstration in front of Raj Bhavan.

Kolkata, June 19 (IANS) The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, on Wednesday said that he has rejected a "conditional permission" from Kolkata Police to stage a peaceful sit-in demonstration in front of Raj Bhavan.

The protest is to be held against the reports of post-poll violence surfacing from different pockets of the state after the Lok Sabha elections.

According to Adhikari, on June 13, he had sent the first mail to the office of the commissioner of Kolkata Police for permission for a sit-in demonstration at the same place where the ruling Trinamool Congress were allowed to hold a five-day programme in October last year.

"Receiving no response from the office of the commissioner, I sent a reminder on this count on June 16. On June 18, I received a 'conditional proposal' from the joint commissioner of police to hold the dharna with a change in the venue due to some unexplainable administrative reasons," Adhikari said.

According to him, he is rejecting this "conditional proposal" as this was pure bias.

"There cannot be two separate rules for two groups of people in our country, since you have allowed Trinamool Congress leaders to hold their dharna in the past, at the same spot," he said and added that he will approach the appropriate legal forum in the matter.

Adhikari has also raised the demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe in the alleged custodial death of BJP worker, Sanjay Bera (42) on Tuesday.

"Police arrested him on June 4 after a political scuffle. He was sent to judicial custody. He was admitted to Medinipur Medical College later on. He was returned to judicial custody on June 11. He was again sent to hospital and he died on Tuesday. Police are giving a lame excuse that he incurred head injury by falling," the Leader of the Opposition said.
Kolkata, June 19 : Tension between Raj Bhavan and the state secretariat seems to be mounting as the West Bengal government is yet to react to a missive by Governor CV Ananda Bose asking for removal of Kolkata Police personnel from security duty.

There was no response from the Kolkata Police either regarding the instructions from the office of the Governor.

On June 14, the office of the Governor demanded immediate replacement of Kolkata Police personnel on duty at Raj Bhavan in wake of an allegation by the Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari that the cops were not allowing him and victims of post-poll violence to meet Bose.

As there was no reaction from the state secretariat, Bose on June 17 sent a communique to Nabanna, asking the government to remove Kolkata Police from security duty at Raj Bhavan.

Raj Bhavan sources said that on June 17, an attempt was made by the Governoras staff to serve a notice at the police outpost on the Governoras House premises to vacate the rooms occupied by them. However, that notice was not received by the cops present there.

Meanwhile, on the same afternoon Bose left the city for the site of the Kanchanjunga Express accident at Phansidewa in Darjeeling District.

Even as the Raj Bhavan staff awaits further instructions from Bose, the corridors of power are abuzz with apprehensions over the tension between the Governoras House and state secretariat aggravating in the days to come.
Kolkata, June 19 : The BJP, on Wednesday, issued a show-cause notice to Abhijit Das a.k.a. Bobby, who was the party candidate from Diamond Harbour against Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls.

Das's membership in the party has also been temporarily suspended.

State BJP unit insiders said that on Tuesday, while the party's central fact-finding team was visiting different pockets at Diamond Harbour which were hit by post-poll violence, they faced protests by a section of local workers.

The protesters claimed that the party leadership had neglected the plight of the party workers who have become homeless since the counting process ended on June 4.

"We have come to know that the protesters were also close confidants of Das. So he has been issued a show-cause notice where he has been asked to give a reply within the next seven days. Till further orders from the high command his membership from the party has also been temporarily terminated," said a state committee member of BJP.

The party's state president in West Bengal and Union Minister of State Sukanta Majumdar has also confirmed the development and said that action has been initiated against Das on disciplinary grounds. However, till the time the report was filed, there was no reaction from Das in the matter.

The central fact-finding team, comprising party Lok Sabha member and former Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Deb, former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, former director general of police of Uttar Pradesh and current Rajya Sabha member Brijlal and the party's member of the Upper House in Parliament, Kabita Patidar, reached Kolkata on Sunday evening.

For the last two days, they have toured different pockets at Cooch Behar, Baruipur and Diamond Harbour interacting with the victims of post-poll violence.
Mumbai, June 19 : Television actress Naqiyah Haji has shared insights into her yoga routine, highlighting its profound impact on her well-being.

The 'International Day of Yoga' is celebrated on June 21, and Naqiyah, who is currently portraying Nikki in the fantasy thriller drama 'Shaitani Rasmein', revealed the transformative benefits of yoga.

Speaking about the advantages she has experienced through yoga, Naqiyah said: "Yoga has been a true blessing in my day-to-day life. It helps me stay grounded and focused amid the chaos of a busy schedule."

"Whether it's a challenging shoot or juggling multiple roles, yoga gives me the calm and clarity I need to tackle everything with a positive mindset. It keeps my energy levels up and ensures I am both physically and mentally balanced," shared Naqiyah.

She further elaborated, "Face yoga has been a game-changer for my skin. Incorporating it into my daily routine has not only helped me achieve a natural glow but has also improved my skin's elasticity and firmness. The simple exercises are a great way to relax and rejuvenate, giving me a refreshed and youthful appearance without any invasive treatments."

'Shaitani Rasmein' airs on Star Bharat.
New Delhi, June 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on World Sickle Cell Day on Wednesday reiterated that his government is committed to overcoming this disease.

Mentioning the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, the PM said they're also working on other aspects like creating awareness about this genetic blood disorder.

"On World Sickle Cell Day, we reiterate our commitment to overcome this disease. Last year, we launched the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission and have been working on aspects like creating awareness, universal screening, early detection and proper care," PM Modi wrote on X.

"We are also leveraging the power of technology in this area," he added.

World Sickle Cell Day is observed every year on June 19 to raise awareness about the disease.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda also posted, saying, "Our efforts focus on promoting early diagnosis, ensuring access to treatment, and enhancing the quality of care for those affected".

"Guided by the mantra 'Hope Through Progress: Advancing Global Sickle Cell Care & Treatment', we strengthen our commitment to combating this disease," he added.

Sickle Cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that causes red blood cells to be misshapen like a sickle.

In this disease, the abnormal cells block blood flow and break apart easily, leading to problems like severe pain, liver and heart issues, and a shorter life span, typically in the mid-40s.
Greetings pour in for Rahul Gandhi on 54th birthday; Cong leaders including Priyanka, Kharge extend wishes. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi/Hyderabad, June 19 : Senior leader Rahul Gandhi shared a lighter moment at the Congress headquarters on Wednesday as he cut his birthday cake, in presence of party President Mallikarjun Kharge, Priyanka Gandhi and other senior leaders.

Rahul Gandhi, who turned 54 on Wednesday, was greeted by numerous Congress leaders from across the country, with many hailing him as the leader who "chose love and stood against hatred."

The 54th birthday marks a special moment for the former Congress President, as this comes on the back of the party doubling its tally in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha elections.

Rahul Gandhi, the newly-elected MP from Raebareli has instructed the party workers to refrain from grand celebrations and rather celebrate the occasion by engaging in humanitarian works.

Birthday wishes started pouring in for the Congress leader since morning.

His sister Priyanka wrote a heartfelt post for brother Rahul on her X handle.

"Happy birthday to my sweet brother, whose unique perspective on life, the universe and everything lights up the path. Always my friend, my traveller, argumentative guide, philosopher and leader. Keep shining, love you the most," Priyanka posted.

The Congress party hailed him as the leader who led from the front to reclaim democracy.

In a post on X, the Congress said, "Happy birthday to a leader who taught us to 'Choose Love'. Choose love when hate is hurled at you. Choose love when kindness appears impossible. Choose love when the going gets tough. Choose love when compassion depletes.

"One leader who stood against anger, hatred and tears. One leader who led from the front to reclaim our democracy. One leader who ushered in light and rekindled hope. Thank you for being you Rahul Gandhi ji."

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge extended birthday greetings to Rahul Gandhi and wished him health and a happy life ahead.

In a post on X, Kharge wrote, "Your unwavering commitment to values espoused in the Constitution of India and your emphatic compassion for the millions of unheard voices, are the qualities which set you apart."

"The Congress party's ethos of unity in diversity, harmony and compassion, is visible in all your actions, as you continue in your mission to wipe tears of the last person standing, by showing the mirror of truth to power," he said.

"Rahul ji is the undisputed leader of India's poor, marginalised and backward citizens. The voice of the voiceless, the pillar of strength for the weak, the guardian of our Constitution, the quintessential Nyay Yoddha, and India's brightest hope for a glorious future", wrote Congress General Secretary Venugopal.

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka also sent their greetings to the Congress leader on his birthday.

Revanth Reddy, who is also President of Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC), posted his greetings on X.

"His persona is to fight against all odds. His outlook is to stand by the underprivileged. Sacrifice is inheritance and fighting is his philosophy. He is sagacious and the only leader to fulfil India's aspirations for tomorrow," he posted.

"Hearty birthday greetings to Sri Rahul Gandhi," he added.

Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka called Rahul Gandhi a visionary leader who is "tirelessly striving to ensure equitable distribution of the nation's wealth to the underprivileged."

"Through his initiatives, Bharat Jodo Yatra and Nyaya Yatra, he is uniting the country and protecting the Constitution with unwavering dedication," said the senior leader.

Telangana Minister for Irrigation, N. Uttam Kumar Reddy, too, greeted Rahul Gandhi on his birthday.

Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee President, YS Sharmila Reddy also wished Rahul Gandhi on his birthday.

"Your steadfast dedication and tireless commitment to our nation's betterment serve as a beacon of hope for millions of Indians. May your leadership continue to inspire and steer us towards a brighter and more prosperous future," she said.

Other state ministers and senior leaders of the party also wished the Congress MP and expressed their wishes for his long and healthy life.

IANS

mr/ms/rad
Mumbai, June 19 : Actress Neha Joshi has shared her monsoon skincare regimen, focusing on addressing issues like oiliness and frizziness using natural ingredients.

Neha, who plays Krishna Devi Vajpayee in the show 'Atal', shared: "On a free day, drenching in the rain is the best feeling during monsoons. But, this might affect your skin, so it's critical to take some extra care. The humid monsoon weather can exacerbate oiliness and frizz, making it essential for me to adopt a regimen that addresses these challenges while using natural ingredients."

"I apply homemade cleanser made of besan (gram flour) and turmeric mixed with milk. This natural combination gently exfoliates and cleanses my skin, keeping it free from excess oil and impurities. After cleansing, I tone my skin with rose water," said Neha, who is known for Marathi films 'Lalbaugchi Rani', 'Poshter Boyz', and 'Baghtos Kay Mujra Kar', among others.

Neha added: "Also, moisturising becomes crucial, even for oily skin like mine. I use aloe vera gel mixed with a few drops of tea tree oil. This lightweight moisturiser hydrates my skin and helps prevent acne breakouts, a common issue during the monsoon."

'Atal' airs on &TV.

Meanwhile, Neha played the role of Jenny in the crime thriller film 'Drishyam 2', directed by Abhishek Pathak. The film stars Ajay Devgn, Akshaye Khanna, Tabu, and Shriya Saran in the lead roles.

She has also been part of shows like 'Avaghachi Sansar', 'Ka Re Durava', 'Ek Mahanayak - Dr. B. R. Ambedkar', and 'Doosri Maa'.
Kolkata, June 19 : The family members of Sanjay Bera (42), a BJP worker from Debra in the West Midnapore district of West Bengal, on Wednesday approached a single-judge bench of Calcutta High Court demanding a CBI probe in his death.

The family has claimed that his death was under mysterious circumstances because of police torture.

The family members approached the single-judge bench of Justice Amrita Sinha just hours after the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, demanded a CBI probe in the matter.

"Police arrested Bera on June 4 after a political scuffle. He was sent to judicial custody. He was admitted to Medinipur Medical College later on. He was returned to judicial custody on June 11. He was again sent to hospital and he died on Tuesday. Police are giving a lame excuse that he incurred head injury by falling," Adhikari claimed.

Justice Sinha has admitted the petition and the matter is likely to come up for hearing later in the day only.

On Wednesday, Bera's family members claimed that when he was arrested on June 4, he had no injury marks on his body. However, when he was presented at the court the next day he had injury marks on his head. Besides demanding the CBI probe, the family members of the slain BJP worker claimed that the post-mortem of his body should be conducted at any hospital whose authority is the Union government.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 19 : An action council under the leadership of MLA K Babu, at Palakkad District, has been formed to collect Rs 3 crore to be paid as 'Blood Money' to the family of a Yemeni national killed by an Indian nurse.

The payment of the 'Blood Money' is expected to save Nimisha Priya, a nurse hailing from Kerala who has been sentenced to death for the murder of Talal Abdo Mahdi and has been in jail since 2017.

Babu on Wednesday said they were collecting the money to be paid to the Yemeni family.

"We have started the collection drive and seek help from people who are willing to join us for this initiative which will help Priya," said Babu.

It is alleged that Priya, who worked as a nurse in Yemen, had injected Talal Abdo Mahdi with sedatives to retrieve her passport, which he had in his possession.

She had reportedly suffered abuse and torture at the hands of Mahdi.

She was later sentenced to death and following appeals and long-drawn court cases, she continues to be in jail.

Her mother after the intervention of a court in Delhi managed to travel to Yemen in April and met her daughter in jail.
Moscow, June 19 : A Ukrainian drone attack has caused a fire at an oil depot in Azov in the Rostov region of Russia, regional emergency services were quoted by local media as saying on Wednesday.

Governor of Rostov region Vasily Golubev said earlier via his Telegram channel that storage tanks containing oil products in Azov ignited following a drone attack. Initial reports suggest that no casualties have been reported.

The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations said that approximately 200 personnel and 49 units of equipment were deployed to extinguish the blaze in the storage tank, which has a total capacity of 4,000 cubic metres, reports Xinhua news agency.

The fire was contained in an area of 3,200 square metres.

Four Ukrainian combat drones were reportedly involved in the attack on the oil depot.
Mumbai, June 19 : Actors Renuka Shahane and Rajesh Tailang have joined forces for the upcoming short film 'Ek Kadam', which explores the transformative journey of a housewife rediscovering her identity and independence.

Directed by Rajeev Upadhyay, 'Ek Kadam' tells the story of Anuradha Solanki, a middle-aged housewife who has always depended on her husband, Mahendra, and has never ventured out alone.

Renuka shared: "When I first read the script of 'Ek Kadam', I was deeply moved by Anuradha's journey. It's a powerful story about rediscovering oneself amid adversity. Working with Rajeev and Rajesh was a wonderful experience, and I hope the film resonates with the audience as much as it did with me."

Director Rajeev shared his experience casting the lead roles: "As I wrote the script of 'Ek Kadam', I envisioned Renuka Shahane as Anuradha. I texted her and shared the script, and she loved it, coming on board immediately."

"Rajesh sir also loved the script and joined soon after. I was ecstatic to have my first choices for the lead roles sooner than I imagined. Renuka mam and Rajesh sir turned into the characters of my film, bringing my vision to life. I am especially grateful to my producer, Amrita Dodani, for her unwavering support."

He added: "Our film's selection in various prestigious festivals and the awards we won were the icing on the cake."

Rajesh said the script of 'Ek Kadam' immediately drew him in.

"The character of Mahendra is complex, and the dynamic between him and Anuradha is compelling. It was a pleasure to work with Renuka and Rajeev. I believe this film carries an important message about empowerment and self-discovery."

'Ek Kadam', a 20-minute and 38-second film, has been released on Humaravmovie, Hungama, Vodafone, and Airtel.

Producer Amrita Dodani said: "Women are often oppressed in this male-dominated society. As a woman, I relate to this deeply. 'Ek Kadam' is our effort to encourage women to break out of patriarchy, no matter their age or circumstances."
Aden, Yemen : A merchant vessel struck by the Yemeni Houthi group days ago has sunk in the Red Sea, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a facility of the British Navy for handling international shipping emergencies, reported.

The Greek-owned bulk carrier 'Tutor' was hit twice on June 12, approximately 66 nautical miles southwest of the Yemeni port city of Hodeidah, the Yemeni government Coast Guard officials told Xinhua news agency shortly after the strikes.

Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea claimed that the group targeted the ship with "an unmanned boat, several drones, and ballistic missiles," causing severe damage and putting the vessel "at risk of sinking."

Sarea justified the attack by accusing the cargo ship's owner of violating a Houthi ban on entering Israeli ports.

The Coast Guard officials said an unmanned boat detonated at the stern, causing a big leak in the vessel's hull. An official added that the vessel made a distress call shortly after the first attack.

Despite search efforts, a missing crew member has not been located, officials said.

Following the incident, the UKMTO said in an update on June 15 that the crew of the vessel had been evacuated by military authorities, and the vessel had been abandoned, adrift on the water.

Since last November, the Houthis have been conducting military operations in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, targeting ships they claim are Israel-linked or bound for Israel.

The group, which controls much of northern Yemen and the crucial Hodeidah Port, has launched attacks against commercial shipping using numerous booby-trapped boats, missiles, and drones.

The Houthi attacks took place against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict between the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) and the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip, which has been raging for more than eight months.

In response to the Houthi strikes, the US and the UK initiated a military operation in January, conducting air and missile strikes against Houthi targets within Yemen to deter the group.

However, the Houthis, in retaliation, subsequently expanded the scope of their targeting to include US and British commercial and military vessels.
Chinese and US officials met recently and discussed the promotion of counternarcotics cooperation between the two countries.

According to a news release issued by the Chinese Embassy on Tuesday, during a meeting between Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng and Rahul Gupta, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, last Friday, "the two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on promoting counternarcotics cooperation between the two countries on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit."

Xie welcomed Gupta's upcoming visit to China, and briefed Gupta on the recent efforts of China's drug control authorities, emphasizing that "the fentanyl problem is not China's problem, nor was it caused by China," the release said.

"But out of humanitarian considerations, China has been doing its utmost to help the US side deal with the fentanyl issue," Xie told Gupta, the release said.

China, Xie said, "has made great efforts and demonstrated its sincerity for cooperation."

"The US side needs to move in the same direction with China, take China's concerns seriously and earnestly address them, so as to create a favorable atmosphere for cooperation," he added.
Beijing, June 19 : At least 13 people died in heavy rains, floods and landslides in southern China, while scores more were missing, state television reported.

Continuous rain fell for 24 hours in Shanghang in the south-eastern Fujian province, affecting some 66,500 people, the Xinhua news agency reported on Wednesday.

The situation in other areas of southern China remained tense.

Heavy rainfall was forecast for Wednesday in the provinces of Guangxi, Jiangxi, and Zhejiang. Authorities have issued warnings about an increased risk of flooding, especially in the northern parts of Guangxi and Fujian, where numerous rivers are located.

The provinces have already suffered economic damage estimated at millions of dollars.

While China's southern provinces are experiencing heavy rains, the northern regions around Beijing are suffering from a heatwave, with temperatures again expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius in some areas on Wednesday.

In response to the flooding and drought situation, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for all possible measures to help those affected.

--IANS/DPA

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Berlin, June 19 : German Federal Prosecutor General Jens Rommel has identified Islamist terrorism as one of the primary security concerns facing Germany.

Rommel on Tuesday disclosed that out of over 700 investigations conducted last year in the field of terrorism and state security, nearly 500 were linked to Islamist terrorism.

According to Rommel, more than 40 cases were related to Right-Wing Extremists and three were attributed to Left-Wing Extremism.

Rommel said that 38 of the initiated proceedings were related to international criminal law.

Politically motivated crimes have increased across the spectrum, according to the prosecutor, who said that "the numbers support our impression that we are indeed living in turbulent times."

In particular, the Khorasan Province branch of the Islamic State is targeting Germany for recruitment attempts and attacks, Rommel said.

Rommel also mentioned that radicalised individuals with no ties to an Islamist organisation also pose a threat to internal security. He cited the recent fatal knife attack on a police officer in the south-western German city of Mannheim as an example.

In May, a 25-year-old Afghan man injured five people with a knife at a rally organised by the anti-Islam movement Pax Europa and stabbed a police officer who later died from the injuries.

"We assume that the act was religiously motivated," Rommel said.

The Prosecutor's Office believes that the Palestinian Islamist organisation Hamas is increasingly posing a threat of attacks in Europe.

Rommel referred to the arrest of four suspected Hamas members in December: "According to our information, they were to retrieve weapons from conspiratorially created earth depots and keep them ready for attacks on Jewish institutions in Europe."

--IANS/DPA

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New Delhi, June 19 : The National Stock Exchange (NSE) on Wednesday issued an advisory cautioning investors of two individuals promising assured returns on investment in the stock market.

The exchange said in a statement that investors are cautioned and advised not to subscribe to any such scheme/product offered by any person/entity offering indicative/assured/guaranteed returns in the stock market as the same is prohibited by law.

The NSE said that the person named 'Iffat Marash' associated with an entity named 'Ant Retail League Club' operating through the mobile number '9366866149' and another individual named 'Sadia Arshad' operating via mobile number '9366322942' -- is "providing securities market tips and assured returns on investment in the stock market".

"It may also be noted that the said person/entity are not registered either as a member or authorised person of any registered member of the National Stock Exchange of India Limited," said the NSE.

The stock exchange also advised investors not to share their trading credentials such as user id/password with anyone.

"Exchange has provided a facility of 'Know/Locate your Stock Broker' under the link https://www.nseindia.com/invest/find-a-stock-broker on its website, to check the details of the registered member and its Authorised Persons," it mentioned.
New Delhi, June 19 : The quantity of India's seafood exports touched an all-time high during the financial year 2023-24 with the USA and China emerging as the top importers, according to a Commerce Ministry statement released on Wednesday.

India shipped 17,81,602 metric tonnes (MT) of seafood worth Rs 60,523.89 crore ($7.38 billion) during 2023-24.

Frozen shrimp remained the major export item in quantity and value, while the USA and China became the major importers of India's seafood. During FY 2023-24, the export improved in quantity terms by 2.67 per cent. In 2022-23, India exported 17,35,286 MT of seafood worth Rs 63,969.14 crore ($8,094.31 million).

"India recorded an all-time high export in terms of volume despite the several challenges in its major export markets like the USA, EU and the UK," said D V Swamy, chairman, Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA).

Frozen shrimp, which earned Rs 40,013.54 crore ($4.9 billion), retained its position as the top item in the seafood export basket, accounting for a share of 40.19 per cent in quantity and 66.12 per cent of the total dollar earnings. Shrimp exports during the period increased by 0.69 per cent in quantity terms.

The export of frozen shrimps during 2023-24 was pegged at 7,16,004 MT. The USA, the largest market, imported 2,97,571 MT of frozen shrimp, followed by China (1,48,483MT), the European Union (89,697 MT), Southeast Asia (52,254MT), Japan (35,906MT) and the Middle East (28,571 MT).

The export of black tiger (BT) shrimp increased by 24.91 per cent, 11.33 per cent and 8.28 per cent in terms of quantity, value (Rupees) and US dollar, respectively, in 2023-24. BT shrimps were exported to the tune of 38,987 MT worth Rs 2855.27 crore ($347.84 million).

Frozen fish, the second largest exported item, fetched Rs 5,509.69 crore ($671.17 million), accounting for 21.42 per cent in quantity and 9.09 per cent in US dollar earnings. This year, the export of frozen fish increased by 3.54 per cent and 0.12 per cent in terms of quantity and value (Rupee), respectively; however, it declined by 2.31 per cent in terms of US dollar.

The USA continued to be the major importer of Indian seafood in terms of value, with an import worth $2,549.15 million, accounting for a share of 34.53 per cent in terms of US dollar value.

China (excluding Hong Kong and Taiwan) emerged as the second largest seafood export destination country for India in terms of US dollar with an import volume of 4,51,363 MT worth $1,384.89 million, accounting for 25.33 per cent share in quantity and 18.76 per cent in US dollar terms.

Japan is the third largest importer, with a share of 6.06 per cent in quantity and 5.42 per cent in US dollar value terms. Frozen shrimp continued to be the major item of exports to Japan, with a share of 33.26 per cent in quantity, 65.94 per cent in Rupee and 65.98 per cent in US dollar value.
New Delhi, June 19 : In what would be his first bilateral visit after the formation of the BJP-led NDA government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar will travel to Colombo on Thursday, reaffirming New Delhi's 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

The External Affairs Ministry stated that during the visit, the EAM will hold meetings with the top leadership of the island nation on a wide-ranging issues of partnership.

"The visit underlines India's continued commitment to Sri Lanka as its closest maritime neighbour and a time-tested friend. It will add momentum to connectivity projects and other mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors," read the MEA statement.

As reported by IANS, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Sunday that negotiations are currently underway regarding the sale of surplus renewable energy to India.

"A feasibility study is currently being conducted on establishing a power line connection between Sri Lanka and India, with further discussions expected during the upcoming visit of the Indian Foreign Minister to Sri Lanka," the Lankan President's Media Division (PMD) said in a statement.

President Wickremesinghe also mentioned that a pre-feasibility study for a land connection between Sri Lanka and India has been completed, and a full feasibility study will be conducted in the near future.

The Lankan President was in New Delhi on June 9 to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During the visit, he also held discussions with Jaishankar on his forthcoming visit to Sri Lanka to oversee the progress of development projects initiated in the country with Indian investments.

"The discussions also covered India's 'Neighborhood First' policy. Minister Jaishankar highlighted plans for an industrial zone in Trincomalee, to be established by the Indian government, which will attract numerous Indian investors and potential investors from other countries," the PMD had said in a statement on June 10.
Damascus, June 19 : The Israeli military killed a Syrian officer in a drone strike in southern Syria on Wednesday morning, the Syrian Ministry of Defence said.

The attack targeted two Syrian military sites in the Quneitra and Daraa provinces in southern Syria at around 7 a.m. (local time), killing one Syrian officer and causing damage to an unknown amount of materials, Xinhua news agency reported citing the ministry.

The Syrian government condemned the strike, labelling it as an "act of aggression" by Israel.

Tensions between Israel and Syria have escalated in recent years, with numerous airstrikes attributed to Israel, targeting what Israel perceives as Iranian assets and Hezbollah positions and weaponry in Syria.

Israel has repeatedly said that its actions are aimed at preventing Iranian entrenchment near its borders.
Mumbai, June 19 : Actress Swara Bhasker, who recently criticised a food blogger for a social media post expressing pride in being vegetarian, has now spoken up about the soon-to-be-wed couple Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal.

The actress expressed her frustration with societal interference in personal matters and defended Sonakshi and Zaheer's right to privacy.

Sonakshi is currently subjected to a lot of trolling on the Internet due to her interfaith relationship with Zaheer.

Talking about the same, Swara, who herself had an interfaith union with politician and activist Fahad Ahmad, told Connect Cine: "What they (Sonakshi and Zaheer) do in their private lives, whether they get married or not, is up to them. It's nobody's business if they're living together, getting married in a court, having a 'nikaah', or an Arya Samaj wedding."

The actress anticipated further controversies and spoke about the public scrutiny that the couple's future children might be subjected to. The same happened with Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan and Saif Ali Khan's children, Taimur and Jeh.

Swara said: "Wait and watch, when they have a child, there will be a separate debate around the child's name. We've seen it happen with Kareena and Saif's kids, and with my kid. It's completely idiotic, but this isn't going to end anytime soon."
New Delhi, June 19 : Delhi Water Minister, Atishi Marlena, on Wednesday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the water crisis in the national Capital and threatened to sit on an indefinite fast if Delhi doesn't start getting "its share of water" by June 21.

New Delhi, June 19 (IANS) Delhi Water Minister, Atishi Marlena, on Wednesday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the water crisis in the national Capital and threatened to sit on an indefinite fast if Delhi doesn't start getting "its share of water" by June 21.

Atishi claimed that the national Capital has been grappling with a water shortage and Haryana remains one of the major "culprits" in aggravating this crisis.

In the letter, she said that Delhi was being denied its share of water despite clear directions from the court.

Atishi said that she was unable to bear the pain and sufferings of Delhiites and would be forced to launch a 'satyagraha' and sit on an indefinite fast if no solution emerges in the next two days.

She also sought intervention by PM Modi to defuse the situation.

"I request you with folded hands to intervene in the matter and ensure that Haryana administration releases Delhi's share of water," she wrote.

Holding the Haryana government responsible for leaving 28 lakh Delhiites without water, she said that never before had the city seen such a deep water deficit.

"On June 18, Haryana released 513 MGD water to Delhi as against the standard supply of 613 MGD. Decrease in water supply by about 100 MGD has impacted lives of at least 28 lakh city residents," she wrote in the letter.

She also said that AAP legislators went to meet the ministers concerned at the Centre and also approached top officials of the Haryana government for the release of the remaining 100 MGD of water to Delhi but nothing happened.

In the letter to PM Modi, she also urged the Haryana government to release 100 MGD water on humanitarian grounds.
New Delhi, June 19 : Amid the verbal exchange between BJP and the Opposition over shifting of statues inside the Parliament House complex, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday wrote a letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker and Rajya Sabha Chairman and demanded that they be reinstalled at their original positions.

"The statues of many great leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, have been removed from their prominent places in the Parliament House Complex and relocated to a separate corner," Kharge charged in the letter.

He said that the removal of the statues "violates the basic spirit of our democracy" and added that the placement of Mahatma Gandhi's statue in front of the Parliament building was done after due deliberations and it also holds immense value in India's democratic polity.

"Over the decades, this space had assumed sacrosanct value. Members of Parliament (MPs) as well as visitors paid their respects to Mahatma Gandhi imbibing within themselves the spirit of the Mahatma. It is at this place that Members sought to voice concerns of the people in a democratic manner to draw the attention of the government seeking due redressal," the Congress chief said.

Further expressing reservations over relocation of Babasaheb's statue, he cited experiences of his student days and said the vantage position facilitated seamless movement of people paying their tributes to him on his birth and death anniversaries.

"During my student days in the mid-1960s, I was at the forefront of demanding installation of the statue in the precincts of the Parliament House. Such concerted efforts eventually resulted in installation of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's statue at the place where it was hitherto before placed. I am constrained to state this with anguish that all this has now been brought to a naught in an arbitrary and unilateral manner," wrote Kharge.

Kharge's letter seeking reinstallation of statues of Mahatma Gandhi, BR Ambedkar and other national icons to original positions comes ahead of the first Parliament session of the 18th Lok Sabha, beginning June 24.

Notably, the shifting of statues of national icons and freedom fighters inside the Parliament complex saw the Opposition going up in arms against the Centre's "arbitrary and unilateral" move.

The Government however rubbished the Opposition charges and said that the 'prerna sthal' hosting the statues at one place will give the visitors a better sense and understanding of the country's rich legacy.

 IANS

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Patna, June 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir district on Wednesday and described it as 'symbol of India's vibrant cultural exchange and academic heritage'.

The event saw the presence of many eminent personalities and ambassadors from more than a dozen nations, besides External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

The new campus of one of the world's oldest universities has been constructed near the ruins of Nalanda University, as it existed in ancient times.

After inaugurating the campus, PM Modi said that the university is not just a name but an identity for the country.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi said: "I got the opportunity to come to Nalanda in the first 10 days after taking the oath for the third term. This is not only my good fortune, but I also see it as an auspicious sign of India's development journey."

"Nalanda is an identity, an honour, a value, a mantra, a pride, and a saga. It is the proclamation of truth that books may be burned in the flames, but it can't erase knowledge," PM Modi further said.

The Prime Minister called for building on the legacy of the ancient university and developing it into a modern education behemoth where students can study and benefit from its rich experience.

"Children were not admitted to ancient Nalanda on the basis of their identity or their nationality. There are youth from every class in every country here. In this new campus of Nalanda University, we have to strengthen the same ancient system again in a modern form, and I am happy to see that many students have started coming here from many countries of the world today," PM Modi stated.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar said: "Today, I am very happy to see that Nalanda University has become fully functional. Currently, 400 students from 17 countries are studying here."

"All the buildings and campus for the university have expanded a lot and have also become very beautiful. I am thankful to PM Narendra Modi who came and inaugurated the new campus," Nitish Kumar said.

The Bihar CM said that Rajgir was the first capital of the Magadh Empire. Earlier, it was known as Rajgriha and remains a confluence of five religions.
Going into the summer solstice, Billings reached a record low temperature due to a weather system thats cooled off the surrounding region.

Cities throughout Eastern Montana and Northern Wyoming also saw record lows after a low-pressure trough brought near freezing temperatures to Billings over the past two days. While some in Billings woke up Wednesday to frost covering their roofs and lawns, millions of other Americans were in the midst of a heat wave.

The low-pressure system thats been hovering over Billings should dissipate by Wednesday evening, said Julie Arthur, a forecaster for the National Weather Service in Billings. Once it does, temperatures are expected to climb drastically.

Starting on Monday, NWS issued warnings of snowfall in south-central Montana. That same day, the Montana Department of Transportation announced that the Beartooth Highway along U.S. Route 212 was closed at the Wyoming state line because of winter weather. The highway stayed closed until Wednesday morning.

On Tuesday, amid drizzling rain and cloud cover, the temperature in Billings fell under a low for June 18 set 85 years ago. NWS instrument recorded a low of 38 degrees. The following morning, it got down to 39 degrees, again breaking the record low for June 19 set in 1946 with 42 degrees. Miles City and Sheridan also saw record lows over the past two days, Arthur said.

Moving to the Eastern United States, residents have the opposite problem. A dangerous heat wave is moving through the Mid-West over the rest of the week, triggering warnings from local health officials to stay inside and stay hydrated, according to reporting from the Associated Press. On Monday, Chicago broke a 1957 record high when temps reached 98 degrees.

Summer will catch up to Billings this weekend, according to the latest forecast from NWS, with a high of 98 degrees expected on Sunday. Although higher than the maximum average for June 23 of 86 degrees, Arthur said 98 degrees wouldnt break any heat record.

Its getting harder to break those record highs because they are in the 90s and 100s, she said.
Mumbai, June 19 : Actress Sana Makbul has opened up about her journey with yoga and how it significantly enhanced her life.

Ahead of 'International Day of Yoga' (June 21), Sana talked about her off-screen dedication to yoga which has been a pivotal force in her personal wellness.

Despite being relatively new to yoga, Sana is passionate about its fundamentals.

"Yoga is fundamentally about breathing and stretching," she said.

This ancient practice combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, creating a comprehensive approach to health. While Sana admits she is not yet an expert, she has grown fond of several postures that she practises regularly.

"Some of my favorite postures include the Bridge Pose, Bhujangasana, and Dhanurasana, which help me alleviate physical discomfort and achieve a balanced state of mind," said the 'Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?' actress.

For Sana, yoga wasn't just a casual decision, but a necessary one.

"Yoga has been a game-changer for me, soothing both my mind and body," said Sana, who's known for her work in 'Aadat Se Majboor'.

Before embracing yoga, Sana faced numerous health issues, including bloating, constant agitation, and lethargy. These challenges were more than minor inconveniences -- they impacted her daily life and overall well-being.

Sana said: "My nutritionist recommended incorporating yoga in my routine, highlighting its numerous benefits."

Trusting the advice, she embarked on a journey that would bring about remarkable changes in her life. Sana has been practising yoga for a year now, and the results are evident.

"Committing to yoga transformed my life. Now, I feel much better... An hour of yoga each day ensures lifelong health," she said.

What Sana finds most remarkable about yoga is its healing power.

"Yoga possesses incredible healing powers and transformative energy," she said.

On the work front, Sana last featured in the reality show 'Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 11'.
Lucknow, June 19 : The decision of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to retain his Raebareli seat has given new hope to Congress workers in Uttar Pradesh.

What has further added to their joy is the fact that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will now be contesting the Wayanad seat.

"The situation now is doubly advantageous for us. Rahul Gandhi choosing to retain Raebareli will mean his increased presence and involvement in party affairs here. Besides, with Priyanka going to Wayanad, her coterie will also follow her there and Uttar Pradesh will be free from their clutches," said a veteran Congress leader who had been expelled from the party by former UPCC chief Ajay Kumar Lallu when Priyanka was in charge of Uttar Pradesh.

The leader, who did not wish to be named, said that maximum damage to the Congress in Uttar Pradesh was caused by Priyanka's team.

"Her coterie misbehaved with senior leaders, sold tickets for a price and did not allow anyone to meet Priyanka who, in any case, was not willing to listen to complaints against her team. It was the misbehaviour by her team that led to a massive exodus from the party. Leaders like Jitin Prasada, R P N Singh, Laliteshpati Tripathi and dozens of others left the Congress," said another senior party leader.

He further said that those, who did not move to greener pastures, receded into their shells and stopped even coming to the UPCC office.

A senior leader said to be close to Rahul Gandhi said that the latter was keen to bring back party veterans into the political mainstream on one hand, and on the other, he wanted to include young blood in the Congress.

Party strategists also feel that Rahul's presence in UP will further strengthen the alliance with Samajwadi Party.

"The outcome of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh has indicated that the Congress-Samajwadi Party alliance's votes and conversion of seats increased after Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav decided to contest 2024 polls from Kannauj and Rae Bareli seats respectively. Moreover, their relationship was marked by camaraderie and this percolated down to the cadres who worked together in the polls. With Rahul here, there will be no room for middlemen to create confusion between the two alliance members," said a senior leader.

Senior party leaders have called this the right move and say this was an indication towards the party's continuing increased focus on Uttar Pradesh. The party has already given indications that its alliance with the SP will continue.

The Congress, which contested 17 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh in alliance with the Samajwadi Party and won six seats, has been looking for a push for a turnaround and the 2024 poll results appear to have provided the desired opportunity. The Samajwadi Party won 37 seats, compared to the five seats it had won in 2019.

Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh focussed on issues like the caste census, the move to change the Constitution, rising unemployment and scrapping of the Agnivir scheme etc. This worked effectively in the state.

Rahul Gandhi has given indications that he will continue to focus on such issues.

A Samajwadi Party leader said that the alliance would work on the ground if the two leaders -- Rahul and Akhilesh -- keep their channels of communication open.

"There will be trouble if they allow second-rung leaders to start negotiations but with Rahul now staying here, this will be unlikely," he said.
Mumbai, June 19 : The makers of the upcoming Bengali film 'Aamar Boss' have pushed its release date to December.

Mumbai, June 19 (IANS) The makers of the upcoming Bengali film aAamar Bossa have pushed its release date to December.

The film, which marks veteran actress Rakhee Gulzaras return to Bengali cinema, will be released around Christmas this year.

The film directed by Nandita Roy and Shiboprosad Mukherjee received an uncut UA certificate from the censor board recently.

aAamar Bossa was initially slated for a June release. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, its release was postponed.

Despite the delay in its release date, the film remains highly anticipated because of its unique storytelling approach.

Meanwhile, another film by Nandita and Shiboprosad, aBohurupia, is gearing up for its release during Durga Puja this year.

The shooting of aAamar Bossa was wrapped up in February this year.
New Delhi, June 19 : The attendance of Heads of Missions of 17 countries at the inauguration of the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday once again brought to the fore India's continuous push to keep the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or the ASEAN, at the heart of its 'Act East' policy.

The foreign diplomats, many of them from countries with which India shares millennia-old cultural and civilisational linkages, were left awestruck as the university - conceived as a collaboration between India and East Asia Summit (EAS) nations - seeks to revive the glory of Nalanda as a hub of knowledge, learning and excellence.

"Honoured to join other 16 dip colleagues at the inauguration of Nalanda University's new campus. Re-establishment of NU has revitalised cilivilisation linkages and promoted P2P connect in the region. Will keep our active partnership with NU towards a sustainable Thailand-India relations," Pattarat Hongtong, Ambassador of Thailand to India, posted on X.

In his address at the event, PM Modi mentioned that Nalanda carries the heritage of the world, Asia and many countries and its revival is not restricted to the revival of Indian aspects which was evident from the presence of so many countries at Wednesday's ceremony.

"Front row seat to listen to Honourable PM Narendra Modi ji speak during the official inauguration of the Nalanda University. Most impressed. So privileged to visit the UNESCO Nalanda University ruins. Felt very blessed by the spirit of Buddhism," said Singapore's High Commissioner Simon Wong.

The visiting diplomats posted their photographs from the inauguration ceremony, their interaction with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, the new campus, and also the ruins of the ancient university.

"Honoured to represent Indonesia at the inauguration of new Nalanda University by PM Modi ji and EAM Jaishankar," Ina Krisnamurthi, Ambassador of Indonesia to India, posted on social media.

Nick McCaffrey, Australia's Deputy High Commissioner to India, was also delighted to attend the landmark event.

"Very early start this morning to get to the re-opening of the ancient Nalanda Univ in Bihar by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. Honoured to be here and enjoy Bihari food once again!" he wrote on X.

Earlier, EAM Jaishankar mentioned that there are "multiple messages" in the rebuilding of Nalanda University, both national and international.

"It also marks the realisation of a longstanding commitment by India to the East Asia Summit grouping. It reflects the seriousness with which we pursue our Act East policy. But most of all, it underlines Bharat's endeavour to emerge as a Vishwa Bandhu, extending the hands of friendship and cooperation to the international community," Jaishankar said during the inauguration ceremony.

"By doing so, we contribute to the rejuvenation of civilisational linkages, to the celebration of our shared cultural heritage, and to the appreciation of the immense diversity of our existence," he added.
Bengaluru, June 19 : Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasised on Wednesday that there is no intention to weaken the case against Kannada superstar Darshan in the fan murder case.

Darshan, his 'partner' and co-star Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others have been arrested on charges of murdering Renukaswamy (33), a resident of Chitradurga.

The probe so far revealed that Renukaswamy was a big fan of Darshan and had sent derogatory messages to Pavithra Gowda on social media. The victim was allegedly kidnapped, brought to Bengaluru, kept in a shed, and brutally tortured to death.

Answering a question regarding the police mulling to replace the special public prosecutor (SPP) in the case, Prasanna Kumar, Parameshwara said, "We are investigating the matter without succumbing to any pressure. If there is a need to change the SPP, there must be a valid reason. The decision to change the SPP won't be made without a reason."

"We will take proper legal advice and act accordingly. As far as I know, there is no proposal to change the SPP," he claimed.

However, he also said that in case the SPP is replaced, it should not be viewed as a wrong move.

To recall, Prasanna Kumar has represented the prosecution for agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) before and secured convictions. He also represented the prosecution in Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar's case and various bomb blast cases.

When asked about Darshan's reported confession to the crime, Parameshwara said he was not aware of it.

"I don't know about the internal aspects of the probe. The media often gets news before I do. This is a serious matter and actions will be taken without any hesitation," Parameshwara said.

Sources claimed on Wednesday that Darshan has reportedly admitted to his involvement in the murder case as per the remand copy submitted to the 24th ACMM court.

As per the remand copy, Darshan gave Rs 30 lakh to Pradosh, an accused in the case, to manage the police and lawyers, and to pay those who disposed of the body. The police have reportedly seized the money from Pradosh's residence.

Replying to a question about the disappearance of actor Darshan's manager Mallikarjun for the past one and a half years, Parameshwara said the police would verify the matter.

"The SIT team will decide if it wants a probe into this. If they seek permission from the government, we will grant it," he said.

When asked about the suicide case of Sridhar, one of Darshan's employees, Parameshwara said the matter will be probed if a connection with the actor in this matter is established.
Amaravati, June 19 : Andhra Pradesh's new Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh plans to bring radical changes in the education sector, and had started working on his action plan even before taking charge of his portfolio.

Lokesh, who is the son of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and also holds the portfolios of Information Technology, Electronics & Communication and Real Time Governance, is holding review meetings with senior officers of the Education Department and will soon hold meetings with the leaders of various student unions and parent organisations to know the issues plaguing the education sector for a long time and also find solutions to these problems.

He is very keen that the teachers should not be assigned any other task except supplying quality food during the mid-day meal for all the eligible while they extend quality education to their students.

After being sworn in as the minister, he started holding a Praja Darbar in his constituency Mangalagiri to have first-hand information on the problems that the people are facing. He is interacting with people on a daily basis.

According to TDP leaders close to Lokesh, the young minister inherited the philosophy of perseverance until the task was completed from his grandfather and the TDP founder, late N.T. Rama Rao, and his father Chandrababu Naidu. They said Lokeshas target is to provide all the basic amenities in all schools, resolve all issues pending for the past several years in the higher education sector, recruit faculty by finding solutions to the issues pending before the courts for many years, and supply quality school-kits to the students.

Lokesh has also formulated a 100-day action plan to bring the past glory to the IT and Electronics sectors which lost their very existence during the previous five-year YSRCP rule in the state, they said.

When he was the Minister for Rural Development, IT and Electronics only for a couple of years, from 2017 to 2019, he undertook various developmental projects in all the wings. He created a record of sorts by taking steps to construct 25,000 km long CC roads in the rural areas of the state. Lokesh won the prestigious SKOCH Person of the Year Award in 2018 for the revolutionary changes that he brought in rural development and the Digital Leader of the Year award for introducing the latest technology in administration.

For the successful implementation of various schemes in panchayat raj and rural development, the state has been presented with the Innovation Award by the Centre and the department has also won another prestigious award of the Kalam Innovation in Governance.

On behalf of India, Lokesh got a special invitation in 2018 for the Annual Summit of the Entrepreneurship of the World Economic Forum held in China to represent the country. This apart, Lokesh is the lone Indian leader who has been nominated for the Network of Global Future Councils of the World Economic Forum.

With progressive ideas, he has invited globally renowned IT and electronics companies like HCL, TCS, Celkon and many others to set up their units in the state.
Jammu, June 19 : J&K Police on Wednesday said "a major breakthrough" has been made in the June 9 Reasi terror attack, in which 9 pilgrims were killed and 44 others injured, with the arrest of a terror associate.

"A major breakthrough has been achieved in the case pertaining to the terrorist attack on the pilgrim bus which was coming from Shiv Khori on June 9. In this connection, one terror associate, namely Hakam, 45, has been arrested at Reasi. This person was involved in harbouring the terrorists multiple times," SSP, Reasi, Mohita Sharma said.

"Along with providing food and shelter, the said person also acted as a guide and helped them reach the spot of the incident. The arrested person is a prime militant associate who helped the terrorists in the execution of the attack. Further interrogation and investigation of the case is going on," she added.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 19 : A day after a 85-year-old man in Kannur died after opening an abandoned tiffin box with a bomb in it, a resident of the area on Wednesday alleged that people were scared to say anything but it is quite a common occurrence in their locality.

The issue of Velayudhan's death in Eranjoli near Thalassery while looking for coconuts in the compound of a locked house surfaced in Kerala Assembly on Wednesday when the Congress-led Opposition brought it up.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan assured the members that the police were doing their job well and the culprits would be brought to book.

A few hours after CM Vijayan said this, Seena, a resident of Eranjoli after speaking to the newly-elected Vadakara Lok Sabha MP, Shafi Parambil, told the media that Tuesday's blast was nothing new.

"Most of the homes which are locked are under the control of the party people. Everyone here knows what's happening and how bombs are being made. None will ever speak out as they fear for their lives as their homes will be attacked with bombs if they do," she alleged.

"My plea to you (media) is please help us, we also want to live. Our children are afraid to play as there are bombs everywhere," said Seena.

Even as Seena was speaking to the media, her mother was seen asking her to stop giving such statements.

Parambil, who visited the area, said the prime accused in the frequent bomb blasts taking place in and around Kannur were the police.

"They are unable to do their job for obvious reasons and those who make these bombs have now become professionals and not a single one of these professionals have been caught. This is a big failure on the part of those who handle the Home portfolio (CM Vijayan). These professionals know that nothing will happen to them," said Parambil.

Incidentally at the peak of the Lok Sabha poll campaign, in Thalassery a person died and two others were injured while making bombs.

Another resident, Poornachandran, who lost his left palm and right eye at Thalassery in 1998 in a similar bomb explosion involving a tiffin box, said that he shudders to think what happened to him when he was a boy.

"I was picking old things and found a tiffin box. I took it to a shop and as I was trying to open it with a hammer, an explosion took place. I was in a hospital for more than two months and I lost my left hand and right eye.

"I feel extremely sad how my childhood was lost. So many years after it happened to me, the same thing is happening at Thalassery again and again," said Poornachandran, who now works as a clerk in the state capital.

Kerala BJP President, K Surendran said, "The CPI(M) leaders who hail from Kannur are well aware of how this is happening and none should forget this is happening in Vijayan's hometown.

"The CPI(M) wants to move forward by keeping Kannur tense, so people will remain silent. A comprehensive probe into the two recent bomb explosions has to take place."
Agartala, June 19 : The Mayor of the Agartala Municipal Corporation, Dipak Majumder, who recently won the Assembly by-poll from Ramnagar on a BJP ticket, was sworn in as a member of the Tripura Assembly on Wednesday.

Assembly Speaker Biswa Bandhu Sen administered the oath of secrecy to Majumder as a legislator in the 60-member House at a brief function.

Chief Minister Manik Saha, his Cabinet colleagues, and other dignitaries were present at the function held in the lobby of the Assembly.

Official sources said that Majumder, who became an MLA for the first time, may keep his Mayoral post.

In the bypoll held on April 19, Majumder defeated CPI-M nominee Ratan Das by 18,014 votes.

The by-election was necessitated by the demise of sitting BJP MLA and former minister Surajit Datta on December 28 last year.
Mumbai, June 19 : The lead actors of 'Udne Ki Aasha'-- Kanwar Dhillon and Neha Harsora -- have expressed their excitement as the show completed the 100-episode milestone, saying "it speaks volumes about our content".

Kanwar, who plays Sachin in the show, said: "It feels great that the show has completed 100 episodes. And you know what's even more special? Since its launch just one week before the IPL, the show has managed to make its way to the top-five chart and consistently stayed there. I think that speaks volumes about our content and the connection the show has with the audience."

"With time, I'm sure it's going to rise even higher. And touch wood, the numbers speak for themselves. The love we are getting from the audience speaks for itself. I hope that just like we've completed 100 episodes, we will go on to complete 500 and then 1,000 episodes," he added.

Neha, who plays Sailee in the show, said: "It's amazing that we have completed 100 episodes. I'm really happy that everyone on the set and off it is enjoying the show. Personally, it fills me with joy to be a part of this project. The production team is thrilled as well since this is their first show."

Producer Rahul Kumar Tewary also expressed his delight at the achievement, emphasising the dedication and passion invested by the entire team.

"This is a reflection of the collective effort and commitment of everyone involved in 'Udne Ki Aasha'. This is just the beginning and we have a long way to go. Kanwar and Neha have brought their characters to life with sincerity and conviction, contributing significantly to the show's success," he said.

Produced by Rahul Kumar Tewary in collaboration with Rolling Tales Production, 'Udne Ki Aasha' airs on Star Plus at 9 p.m.
The nonprofit group American Prairie has expanded its holdings in north-central Montana with the recent acquisition of two properties, the group announced on Wednesday.

Together the Phillips County properties total 12,534 acres and bring American Prairies total deeded and leased land in Montana to more than 475,000 acres.

The group's purchases included the Lazy J5, totaling 10,218 acres. The land has 9,578 deeded acres and 640 leased acres near Highway 191, about 30 miles southwest of Malta. The ranch is adjacent to American Prairies White Rock unit creating more space for the group's 800 head of bison.

The land is also located in a priority area of conservation with multiple grassland bird species, such as mountain plover and sage grouse, and includes a Bureau of Land Management Area of Critical Environmental Concern for black-tailed prairie dogs.

The second acquisition by American Prairie is from the Schwenke family, with whom the conservation organization has had a long and collaborative working relationship. American Prairie was in the process of closing on the property, which is located just north of American Prairies Mars Vista unit, from Dusty Schwenke when he unexpectedly died last month. The organization was able to work with his estate and complete the transaction in accordance with Schwenke's wishes. The property totals 2,316 deeded acres.

"Dusty Schwenke has been an important partner for American Prairie for many years, including playing a key role in designing and building our extensive bison handling facility, said Lars Anderson, field project manager for American Prairie. Our facility is one of the most innovative in the country, and Dusty helped develop and envision that.

Our team greatly valued his expertise, knowledge, and spirit, and we had hoped to work with him far into the future," Anderson added. "Along with many community members, we mourn his passing."

Scwhenkes property contains a high percentage of intact shortgrass prairie, includes a significant stretch of Cyprian Creek and other wetland features, and its location supports critical carnivore habitat connectivity, American Prairie said. Carnivores in the region include cougars and black bears.

The purchases fulfill the "conservation organizations mission and goals to preserve intact shortgrass prairie, improve habitat for wildlife, and enhance access for the public to enjoy Montanas Great Plains," American Prairie said in a press release.

Not only does the addition of this property grow our White Rock unit, it also contains a diverse landscape of native grasslands, along with several wetland features, providing outstanding habitat value, said Alison Fox, CEO of American Prairie, in the news release. Populations of mule deer, pronghorn, upland game birds and prairie dogs all call this area home.

The group intends to share public access details in the future to spell out recreational uses on these new deeded acres. As it has done in the past, the organization needs to first take time to familiarize itself with the properties.

Founded in June 2001, The Prairie Foundation was formed as an independent nonprofit organization, according to the group's website. It's first land acquisition was made in 2004. The group has changed its name over the years to include American Prairie Foundation, then American Prairie Reserve and now American Prairie.

The nonprofit's goal is to "purchase and permanently hold title to private lands that glue together a vast mosaic of existing public lands so that the region is managed thoughtfully and collaboratively with state and federal agencies for wildlife conservation and public access."

Nearby public lands include the 1.1 million acre Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the 375,000 acre Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, overseen by the Bureau of Land Management. Although these are the largest contiguous parcels, there are also thousands of acres of scattered BLM lands in the region, some of which are remnants of failed homesteads at the turn of the last century.

Parts of American Prairie's lands are open to the public and include campsites and rental yurts. For more information, log on to americanprairie.org/plan-your-trip/. Guests interested in reserving an American Prairie hut, cabin, or campground space are encouraged to make reservations early.

Overnight accommodations for families and groups range in price from $13-$19 per night for a tent campsite, $19-$38 per night for an RV spot, and $173 per night for a hut that sleeps up to nine.

Last year, the group set a record with more than 5,000 visitors at its National Discovery Center in Lewistown and more than 5,900 overnight visitors at its huts and campgrounds.

We saw our highest volume yet of visitors last year and welcomed people from 43 states, said Mike Kautz, director of Public Access and Recreation at American Prairie, in a news release. Even more, a growing number of Montanans are seeking out adventure on the prairie, with 83% of our visitors coming from within the state.

The National Discovery Center, located at 302 W. Main in Lewistown, is free to the public and features interactive exhibits, community meeting spaces and the Ken Burns American Heritage Theater. The center is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Kolkata, June 19 : The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday allowed the post mortem of an arrested BJP worker who died under mysterious circumstances in hospital, to be done in front of his wife or anyone else deputed by her.

Sanjay Bera, a BJP worker from Debra in West Midnapore District of West Bengal allegedly died after being repeatedly admitted to hospital. His family members have alleged that he died due to injuries inflicted by the police.

The single-judge Bench of Justice Amrita Sinha gave the direction after the first hearing on a petition by Bera's family seeking a CBI probe, as well as an autopsy at a central government-controlled hospital in Bengal.

However, Justice Sinha directed that the post- mortem be conducted at the state-run SSKM Medical College & Hospital.

She also allowed the wife of the deceased or any other representative deputed by her, to be present during the autopsy.

Justice Sinha also directed video-recording of the entire post-mortem process and handing over of the body to the family members after the process is over.

The next hearing in the matter is scheduled on June 26.

The family members moved the petition at Justice Sinha's Bench just hours after the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari demanded a CBI probe into the matter.

"Police arrested Bera on June 4 and he was sent to judicial custody. He got admitted to Medinipur Medical College after that but he was sent back to judicial custody on June 11. He was again sent to hospital and he died on Tuesday. Police are giving a lame excuse that he incurred a head injury after falling down," Adhikari claimed.

On Wednesday, Bera's family members claimed that when he was arrested on June 4, he had no injury marks on his body. However, when he was presented in court the next day he had injury marks on his head.
Patna June 19 : Every year, monsoon floods wreak havoc in Bihar, particularly in the northern districts of the state.

While the government spends crores of rupees to take preventive measures each year, the situation has not changed much over the years.

"The state government is keeping an eye on all the concerned developments. We have constituted a dedicated control room besides deploying trained people at places where floods have a greater impact," said Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, state Minister for Water Resources.

This year, the Water Resources department has worked on 150 pre-flood schemes and spent around Rs 350 crore, sources said.

Every year, a large number of people die due to the floods. Even though the monsoon is yet to arrive in Bihar, the water level in the Kosi River in north Bihar has started rising. On Tuesday, a bridge on the Bakra River in Araria district collapsed due to a sudden rise in the water level.

The Water Resources department started preparing for the floods from June 1.

The control room is functional now, while the leave of all the employees of the department, including engineers, has been canceled. The department is monitoring the water level in the rivers, along with the condition of the catchment areas and embankments.

It has taken several measures to protect the more than 3,700 km long embankments in Bihar. More security personnel have been deployed on the embankments while experts have been deployed in the control room for constant monitoring.

In 2021, the Bihar government spent Rs 1121.73 crore for 317 schemes, Rs 748.54 crore for 296 schemes in 2022, Rs 898.04 crore for 330 schemes in 2023, and Rs 350 crore for 149 schemes in 2024 as part of its flood control measures.

A large number of people die due to floods in Bihar each year. According to the data of the Bihar State Disaster Management Authority, the number of people drowning between June and December is continuously increasing in the state, with 205 people drowning in 2018, 630 in 2019, 1,060 in 2020, 1,206 in 2021, while 1,256 people died in 2022.

Former Water Resources Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Jha always maintained that Bihar would not get relief from floods until dams are not be built in Nepal.

Experts in water management feel that Bihar will get relief from floods only when the water coming from Nepal is controlled. For this, the Centre and the state will have to work together because it is an international matter.

Dinesh Mishra, a scholar and an expert on the flood situation in Bihar, holds the state government responsible for the flood menace.

"Everyone in the government, including the engineers in the Water Resources department, knows about siltation. Instead of coming up with a permanent solution to resolve the problem, the government looks only at temporary measures.

"When the Kushaha tragedy on the Kosi River happened in 2008, the Nitish Kumar government gave compensation to the affected family members and they remained silent. No one asked about permanent solutions.

"The state government opens a control room in Patna to monitor the flood situation every year from June 1 to October 15. Every year, floods happen in July. Why doesn't the control room remain functional throughout the year? They know well about the problems but fail to address them," Mishra said.
New Delhi, June 19 : As Sri Lankan filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage's award-winning film 'Paradise', featuring Malayalam star Roshan Mathew and Darshana Rajendran in the lead roles, is set to be released in India on June 28, he is excited that finally, the general public will get to see it.

The movie set in the backdrop of Sri Lanka's 2022 economic, and which won the Kim Jiseok Award for Best Film at the Busan Film Festival, is being presented by Mani Ratnam's production and distribution house, Madras Talkies.

'Paradise' revolves around a visiting Indian couple -- Amritha (Darshana Rajendran), a video blogger, and her film-producer husband Keshav (Roshan Mathew) -- who arrive in the economic crisis-wracked but picturesque Sri Lanka to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary and experience a 'Ramayana tour'.

A robbery in their bungalow jettison their plan, for they lose their mobile phones and laptops.

When they approach the local cop, Sergeant Bandara, and put pressure on him to act fast, he produces three unemployed men as suspects, and Keshav identifies them as culprits, even though their faces were covered during the robbery.

One of the suspects lands in hospital after police torture and ultimately dies. The couple are forced to confine themselves to the bungalow and that is when they realise how far they had moved away from each other. While Amrita cherishes the beautiful surroundings, Keshav, with a permanent frown, gets increasingly frustrated and cannot digest how she is so 'unaffected'.

The climax sees people from the village of the dead suspect attack the bungalow. Keshav and Amrita are forced to defend themselves. What transpires in the end -- the force of 'Sita' -- is bound to shock the viewer. The director maintains that "personal is political and vice versa", hence the backdrop of the economic crisis.

A certain stillness envelops the film, its story, and treatment, making it truly very 'international'. "Yes, the movie has been loved by the critics, but now comes the real challenge -- will we be able to communicate what we want to the general public? And do not forget, we will be up against some big-ticket films," Vithanage, for whom Chennai is a second home, told IANS.

Considering it is the first time that a Sri Lankan director's film is getting a worldwide release, it is also an Indian film produced by Newton Cinema and the languages spoken in it include English, Malayalam, Tamil, Sinhala, and Hindi.

"Though the territory is Sri Lanka, it is an Indian movie," the director reaffirmed.

Admitting he has been nurtured and groomed by Indian cinema, with the post-production of his films always going to Indian labs, not to mention working with Indian technicians for the past 27 years, Vithanage, who is considered one of the pioneers of the third generation

of Sri Lankan cinema, has directed eight feature films and won 30 major national and international awards, besides enjoying commercial success.

"I think this is a natural step, working with Indian actors in Indian languages," Vithanage said. "This story could not have happened to a European couple."

Stressing that even while the two countries are distinct in many ways, they are deeply connected by history and culture.

The reasons for the scenario in which the Indian couple are pushed were manifold.

"As a filmmaker, I also want to bring forth my politics," Vithanage said. "One must remember that politics does not confine itself only to elections. It comes into play in a marriage and in other interpersonal relationships. The larger politics of the economic crisis could creep into institutions such as marriage. These two are interconnected, not separate."

While on the subject of politics, Vithanage said reconciliation between the Sinhalese and the Tamils in his country "remains a distant mirage". And he should know, having made three films on one of the bloodiest civil wars in the world (between the Sri Lankan Army and the LTTE) -- 'August Sun', 'Death on a Full Moon Day', which was the subject of a full-on censorship war, and 'With You, Without You'.

"Yes, we have shown the need for reconciliation in the three films, but there's an absence of it on the ground," Vithanage said. "Let us not forget that reconciliation is a political situation and to achieve it, political steps are paramount. There need to be solid political solutions. Artistes do not have the power for political solutions. They can only amplify the need for them."

Immersed in theatre since childhood, this Sri Lankan director admits that the art form has been instrumental in shaping him as a filmmaker. He says that besides other things, it has taught him how to work with actors and bring out something that is not from his own experience or of the actors'.

"In a way, we try to bring forth a certain truth, an exercise that can be enigmatic. My understanding of how difficult the craft of acting is comes from theatre," the director explained, adding that he expects nothing but spontaneity from his movie actors.

Presently working on a script (in Hindi) based on Fyodor Dostoevsky's 'The Gambler', to be shot in Sri Lanka, Vithanage looks up to several Indian directors from diverse generations. "Adoor Gopalakrishnan, Ritwik Ghatak, Shyam Benegal, Anurag Kashyap and Gurvinder Singh are some of them," he concluded.
Srinagar, June 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 21 will lead the 10th International Yoga Day celebrations here at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Complex (SKICC) situated on the banks of the renowned Dal Lake, besides inaugurating and laying foundation of several projects worth crores during his two-day (June 20-21) visit to Jammu and Kashmir, an official said on Wednesday.

Around 9,000 people are expected to join the Prime Minister during the Yoga International Day celebrations. 'Yoga for self & society' is the theme message of this year's Yoga celebrations.

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO), in a statement, said that during his visit to Srinagar, PM Modi will address the gathering of participants on the occasion of International Yoga Day.

Besides, PM Modi will participate in 'Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K' event at SKICC at around 6 p.m. on June 20 (Thursday).

"PM Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects in Jammu and Kashmir. He will also launch Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP)," the PMO statement said.

This year's Yoga Day event underscores yoga's profound impact on young minds and bodies.

The celebration aims to unite thousands in the practice of yoga, promoting health and wellness on a global scale.

Since 2015, PM Modi has led the International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations at various iconic locations, including Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru and even the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

This year's theme "Yoga for Self and Society" highlights the dual role in fostering individual and societal well-being.

The event will encourage grassroots participation and the spread of yoga in rural areas.

'Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K' event on June 20 is a pivotal moment for the region, showcasing progress and providing inspiration to young achievers, the PMO statement noted.

On the occasion, PM Modi will also interact with the young achievers of Jammu and Kashmir, and also inspect stalls.

PM Modi will also lay the foundation and inaugurate 84 major developmental projects worth over Rs 1,500 crore.

The inaugurations will include projects related to road infrastructure, water supply schemes and infrastructure in higher education etc.

Additionally, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation for projects like improvement of Chenani-Patnitop-Nashri section, the development of Industrial Estates and construction of six government degree colleges.

PM Modi will also launch the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) Project worth Rs 1,800 crore.

The project will be implemented in 90 blocks across 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir, and will have the outreach of 3,00,000 households covering 15 lakh beneficiaries.

PM Modi will also distribute appointment letters to more than 2,000 people appointed in government service, the PMO statement said.
Washington, June 19 : White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre paused her daily briefing on Tuesday to check on a reporter who passed out because of severe heat conditions sweeping through Washington and other states in the US.

Spring officially ends in the US on Thursday, June 20, but the summer is not waiting.

"It is hot in here," Jean-Pierre said as she resumed the briefing and asked the reporters if anyone needed water. The intern was treated by the White House medical staff.

Temperatures are hovering in the upper to mid 90-degree Fahrenheit (around 32-33-degree Celsius). Outside the White House briefing room, the temperature was around 91 F. And it is expected to get hotter later in the week, touching 100 F.

The heat index -- a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature -- has touched 100 F in Florida in the south of the country right up to Maine, the northernmost state that borders Canada on the east coast.

An estimated 70 million Americans are caught in this heat wave.

States in the midwest were enveloped in punishing heat earlier in the week. Residents of Chicago flocked to the beaches and swimming pools that had opened for the summer on Monday, when the temperature climbed to 95 F. Cincinnati in the neighbouring state of Ohio had crossed the 100 F-mark to 102 F.

The heat wave has since shifted eastward, enveloping the region. Washington has declared an extended heat emergency until the end of the week and activated cooling centres, which can be day centres, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, senior wellness centres, public libraries, recreation and community centres, youth centres, and spray parks.

The meteorological phenomenon behind this intense heat wave is called a 'heat dome'.

It's a high-pressure system that develops high above in the atmosphere enclosing the region below in a pot-like heat build-up. The high-pressure system compresses hot air, which gets hotter over time with sustained pressure from above.

Heat wave is described as a rise in temperature and heat dome is a high-pressure system that traps heat. Heat domes are linked to climate change and global warming. A leading meteorologist told The New York Times that in the 1970s, there was a cold wave for every heat wave, while now there are more heat waves in the ratio of two to one cold wave.
Yanaan : , June 19 (IANS) Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasised the armed forces' political loyalty at a crucial meeting on the political work in the military held in Yan'an, an old revolutionary base in northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

Xi, also the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), demanded efforts to ensure a solid political guarantee for building a strong military, as he addressed the CMC Political Work Conference, held from Monday to Wednesday, reported Xinhua news agency.

The Yan'an conference, which Xi personally decided to convene, took place 10 years after a similar meeting was held in Gutian, east China's Fujian Province. The participants discussed and made arrangements for promoting political work in the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Xi emphasized the need to uphold the Party's absolute leadership over the military and to build a high-quality cadre team that is loyal, clean, responsible, and capable of fulfilling the mission of strengthening the military.

On Monday afternoon, Xi led CMC members and heads of various departments and units to visit the revolutionary relics at Wangjiaping, where the CMC's headquarters were stationed from August 1937 to March 1947.

Xi visited the former residences of late revolutionary leaders including Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai and Zhu De in Yan'an to honor the memory of their revolutionary struggle.

The Yan'an conference marks a return to the roots of the military, Xi said.

He called on senior military officials to shoulder the responsibilities entrusted by the Party and the people to keep strengthening the armed forces.
New Delhi, June 19 : A Delhi court on Wednesday extended Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's judicial custody in the excise policy case, while also hearing arguments at length on his regular bail plea.

Vacation Judge Niyay Bindu said that she would not reserve her order.

"I will not reserve order. Everyone knows it is a high-profile matter. I will pass the order after hearing it," she said as she posted the continuation of the hearing on Thursday.

The court heard arguments from Kejriwal's counsel, while the Enforcement Directorate (ED) presented its case but could not complete it.

The judge deferred the hearing to Thursday, stating: "I have to pass some orders (in other cases) and give 'dasti' (service of notice in person) copies."

The judge also heard CM Kejriwalas application to allow his wife Sunita Kejriwal to be present during his medical examination, with the court awaiting a report from Tihar Jail on the matter. The judge clarified that the central agency had no role in Kejriwal's request for treatment inside jail.

During the bail arguments, senior advocate Vikram Chaudhary, representing Kejriwal, contended that the case against him relied on statements from individuals who were allegedly promised bail for supporting the ED's case. He questioned the credibility of these witnesses and suggested their statements were made under duress after failing to obtain bail.

Chaudhary also cited the timing of Kejriwal's arrest before the Lok Sabha elections, suggesting it was politically motivated. He argued that there was no material evidence or money trail against Kejriwal, describing the investigation as "the biggest instrument of oppression".

Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju, representing the ED, argued that Kejriwal had not been summoned as an accused but was now facing charges after the special court took cognisance of the money laundering offence. He said that the credibility of the statements could only be assessed during the trial, not at the bail stage, while adding that inducements given to approvers were lawful and necessary for obtaining evidence. He argued that Kejriwal was liable not only in his personal capacity but also as the head of the Aam Aadmi Party, alleging he had demanded a bribe of Rs 100 crore.
New Delhi, June 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent trip to Italy for the G7 Summit was his first overseas trip in the third term and fifth consecutive visit to the Group of Seven nations.

His warm welcome in Italy, however, ruffled many feathers back home, particularly it left the Congress party 'rattled' as it kept questioning the purpose and rationale behind PM Modi's Italy trip.

Sources suggest that Congress' grumbling could be because of its 'fears' of AgustaWestland scam (VVIP chopper scam) coming back to haunt it, especially at a time when it is basking in the glory of Lok Sabha 'success'.

BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya also questioned: "Why was the Congress constantly whining about PM Modias visit to Italy for G7 Summit?" He also shared an account of details as to what is making the grand old party 'anxious and flustered'.

A leading international daily citing sources claimed that Italy has shared their court's detailed judgement on the AgustaWestland chopper scam, running into 225 pages and also a trail of documents in the bribery scandal with India.

As it is evident, the damning documents may set the ball rolling and may see the high-profile politicians and middlemen in India nailed for their wrongdoing.

It also claimed that the investigations and prosecution in the VVIP chopper scam of Congress-led UPA era may pick up pace post PM Modi's return from his recent trip to Italy.

What will make matters worse for the Congress is the trail of classified documents that will 'fix' the culpability and also identify the leading faces from the political party who allegedly received kick-backs worth more than Rs 600 crore in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam in 2013.

The chopper scam may not have reached conclusion in India but the Italian court did convict the bribe-givers to Indian counterparts. The sealed Italian documents, handed over to India, are also said to have names of those received kickbacks in the defence scam.

This is bound to ring alarm bells for those who were in power during the UPA-II regime and skeletons of one of the biggest defence scams, which remained buried for a decade, are set to come out of the closet.

Notably, AgustaWestland VVIP chopper scam is a corruption case of UPA-II regime in which bribes were paid to middlemen and perhaps to politicians also, as India inked a deal to buy 12 VVIP choppers by Italian defence manufacturing giant Finmeccanica, at an estimated cost of Rs 3,600 crore.
Seoul, June 19 : Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty calling for mutual assistance if either is attacked, as they held summit talks in Pyongyang on Wednesday.

Putin also said Russia does not rule out military and technical cooperation with North Korea in line with the partnership treaty, fueling concern the two countries could further deepen their already serious military cooperation, including in Russia's war in Ukraine, Yonhap news agency reported.

"The treaty on comprehensive partnership signed today provides for mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this treaty," Putin said after summit talks with Kim, according to Russia's TASS news agency.

Putin hailed the treaty as a "truly groundbreaking document" that "reflects the desire of the two countries not to rest on their laurels, but to bring our relations to a new qualitative level," according to TASS.

Putin also said the U.N. sanctions regime against North Korea should be revised. He went on to say that "attempts to blame North Korea for the deterioration of the situation are categorically unacceptable."

"North Korea has the right to take reasonable measures to strengthen its own defense capabilities, ensure national security and protect its sovereignty," Putin said.

Kim declared that the North's relations with Russia have been upgraded to the level of alliance.

"Relations between our two nations rose to a new high of alliance," Kim said. "It is greatly satisfying to conclude a great treaty that befits a changed international situation and the strategic nature of new DPRK-Russia relations."

The two leaders met again nine months after they held a summit in Russia's Far East last September, as Russia, under international sanctions over its war with Ukraine, has been bolstering military and other cooperation with North Korea.

Since the Kim-Putin summit last year, the two nations have been bolstering military ties, with the North being accused of supplying Russia with ammunition for use in Moscow's war in Ukraine in exchange for aid and suspected technological assistance for its space program.

Putin's trip came amid concerns that the two nations have been strengthening military cooperation beyond arms transactions as they are forming a united front against what they called U.S.-led hegemony.

The two nations have yet to release details about the new partnership treaty, but it will replace bilateral treaties that North Korea and Russia have so far clinched, including a treaty of bilateral ties in 2000 that centered on cooperation in non-military sectors.

North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty of friendship and mutual assistance in 1961. The treaty included a provision for so-called automatic military intervention, under which if one side is under armed attack, the other provides military troops and other aid without hesitation.

At the latest summit in Pyongyang, the two leaders reaffirmed the ever-tightening bilateral relations.

Kim expressed "full support" on Wednesday for Russia's war in Ukraine and pledged to strengthen strategic cooperation, according to TASS.

He said relations between the two countries are "entering a new period of prosperity," praising Russia's role in the global strategic balance and vowing to "strengthen strategic cooperation."

Putin also expressed gratitude to Kim for Pyongyang's support for Moscow's policy on Ukraine and also voiced hope to hold the next summit with Kim in Moscow, TASS reported.

Experts said North Korea and Russia are expected to highlight cooperation in the economic sector as any arms deals and military cooperation violate United Nations Security Council resolutions against Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs.

In an article published on Tuesday by the Rodong Sinmun, the North's main newspaper, Putin vowed to build alternative systems for trade and settlements with North Korea that will not be controlled by the West and jointly resist "illegal and unilateral restrictions" in an apparent reference to international sanctions.

After the summit, Russia and North Korea signed inter-government agreements on healthcare, medical education and science cooperation, the Kremlin was quoted as saying by Russian news reports.

Experts said Russia is expected to assist North Korea's space development program in exchange for Pyongyang's arms supplies, but it is not likely to transfer sensitive weapons technology to Pyongyang.

In late May, North Korea's attempt to launch a military spy satellite ended in failure as a satellite-carrying rocket exploded right after liftoff. In November last year, North Korea successfully placed a spy satellite into orbit, and it has a plan to launch three more such satellites in 2024.
New Delhi, June 19 : As traditional treatments such as blood transfusion, hydroxyurea, and other medicines have primarily focused on managing symptoms and preventing complications, experts on World Sickle Cell Day on Wednesday said that recent advancements in sickle cell anaemia and innovations in medical technology have led to the development of several promising new therapies.

According to Dr Meet Kumar, Clinical Director, Haematology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, clinical trials carried out gene editing as a potential treatment method for sickle cell disease.

As per preliminary findings, normal haemoglobin production may be enabled, which could significantly reduce sickle cell disease symptoms and effects.

As per experts, in sickle cell disease, the blood can get too thick and clot, causing various brain problems like silent strokes, regular strokes (both where blood flow is blocked and where there is bleeding), and other issues. This happens because the thick blood can block the blood vessels in the brain.

"Silent cerebral infarcts occur in about 40 per cent of children by 18 years. Headaches occur in about 36 per cent of children with sickle cell anaemia. Ischemic stroke occurs in about 10 per cent of children, and hemorrhagic stroke occurs in children at a rate of about 3-10 per cent," Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, told IANS.

Sickle cell disease may affect the brain in various ways, including cognitive dysfunctions like working memory, verbal learning, visual motor function, inadequacy in general intellectual functioning, problems with language and attention, as well as headaches, seizures, and others, the experts noted.

Dr Gaurav Kharya, Founder and Director, Cellogen Therapeutics, said that gene therapy represents one of the most promising advancements in the treatment of sickle cell disease. This approach involves modifying the patient's own hematopoietic stem cells to correct the genetic defect responsible for the disease. He further mentioned that the modified stem cells are "then reintroduced into the patient's body".

"Early clinical trials have shown promising results, with some patients achieving significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life," Kharya added.
Seoul, June 19 : Russian President Vladimir Putin gave another Russian luxury vehicle as a gift to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un on the occasion of their summit in Pyongyang, according to news reports on Wednesday.

Putin gave Kim a new Aurus vehicle and a tea set, and these items were among the many gifts exchanged between the two leaders, Russia's TASS news agency reported, quoting Yury Ushakov, Putin's foreign policy advisor, as saying.

This is the second Aurus car that Putin has gifted to Kim. North Korea revealed in February that Putin had given Kim an Aurus limousine as a gift, according to Yonhap news agency.

Kim rode with Putin in the first Aurus vehicle from Sunan airport to the Kumsusan Guest House after Putin arrived in the North Korean capital early Wednesday.

Photos released by Russian and other foreign media showed Putin and Kim taking turns to take the wheel in the new Aurus around the guest house following the summit talks.

Giving a vehicle as a gift to Kim constitutes a violation of U.N. Security Council sanctions banning the supply, sale and transfer of luxury items to North Korea, under Resolution 2397 adopted in December 2017.
Khartoum, June 19 : At least 346 civilians have been killed in El Fasher, the capital city of Sudan's North Darfur State, since May 10, amid intensified clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), an official said on Wednesday.

"More than 346 people have been killed and 2,200 others injured since May 10," Ibrahim Abdullah Khatir, director-general of North Darfur State's Health Ministry, told Xinhua news agency.

"Certainly the real figures are likely more than that," he said, adding that the statistics "only cover the dead and wounded who were registered in hospitals, while a large number of those killed were buried directly".

He noted that the local health system is under severe strain, with only one of the five central hospitals operational, along with a few health centers.

The pressure on services is overwhelming due to a shortage of medicines, particularly anesthesia drugs and essential medical supplies, Khatir said, emphasizing the urgent need for fuel to power hospital electricity and support for hospital staff and public health operations.

Sudan has been embroiled in a deadly conflict between the SAF and the RSF since April 2023, which has claimed 15,550 lives and displaced over 8.8 million people nationwide, according to estimates by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.
Kathmandu, June 19 : Over 450 people joined a yoga demonstration event organised by the Indian Embassy in Nepal on the banks of the picturesque Phewa Lake in Pokhara, the tourism capital of the country, ahead of the 10th International Day of Yoga (June 21) on Wednesday.

The Embassy said the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the local community, including officials of the local administration, members of various local yoga bodies, retired Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Army, and staff members of the Embassy's Pension Paying Office (PPO) in Pokhara, who joined in to promote the ancient practice of yoga for good health and well-being.

A series of yoga sessions led by experienced instructors, showcasing a range of asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation techniques, were organised during the event.

"The participants were guided through the physical and mental benefits of each practice, emphasising the holistic approach of yoga to physical and mental health," the Indian Embassy said in a statement.

A health consultation camp with ayurvedic practitioners in association with the Pokhara University was also organised on the sidelines of the event with Prem Narayan Aryal, Vice Chancellor, Pokhara University, gracing the occasion as the chief guest.

"The Vice Chancellor thanked the Embassy of India for organising the event and encouraged the student participants to explore the benefits of yoga to lead a mindful and healthy life," the Embassy said.

Reputed instructors delivered lectures on the benefits of yoga and its practical utility in day-to-day life, especially for the youth. The students and faculty of Pokhara University also benefitted from the expert consultations from reputed ayurveda experts who provided valuable insights and advice on incorporating ayurveda and yoga into daily life.
Lucknow, June 19 : The Uttar Pradesh government, under the direction of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, will commence the Sarus census on Thursday.

The counting of Sarus cranes, which is the state bird, occurs twice a year, during both summer and winter seasons.

In 2024, the counting will take place over two days starting Thursday, with sessions to be conducted both in the morning and evening and cooperation of officers and employees of the Forest Department, as well as students and nature lovers.

The Yogi Adityanath government's efforts to conserve the Sarus crane are showing promising results. In the 2023 count, 19,522 Sarus cranes were recorded in Uttar Pradesh.

Each Divisional Forest Officer will submit the count and photographs of cranes found in their respective divisions to the Chief Forest Conservator, Eco Development, Lucknow by July 1.

The Sarus cranes are counted twice annually, during the summer and winter. The summer count for 2024 will take place on June 20 and 21. For this, the Divisional Forest Officer will be the coordinator of their respective areas. The forest guard will be the leader of the counting team.

The highest count between these two sessions will be considered the actual number. Additionally, GPS readings will be taken at each counting site.

In regions with abundant wetlands, it is recommended to form multiple teams for the Sarus crane count. Public awareness initiatives will inform the general population about this effort. Schools, colleges, children, nature enthusiasts, and NGOs are encouraged to participate in the count, and participants will receive certificates for their involvement.

Over the years, the Sarus crane population has shown significant growth.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, 17,329 cranes were recorded in the state in 2021. This number increased to 19,188 in 2022 and further to 19,522 in 2023.

With the upcoming count scheduled to begin on Thursday in 2024, it is anticipated that the crane population will continue to rise.
New Delhi, June 19 : The 2024 Canadian Grand Prix saw Mercedes replace the front wings of the car. The newly placed wings were seen 'bending noticeably,' which is against the rules of the sport as it 'ensures better aerodynamics.'

Following this incident, Red Bull reportedly filed a complaint with the FIA to ensure fair racing, a fact that has now been confirmed by the team's advisor Helmut Marko.

"They have a new front wing, and on the TV pictures from Montreal, you can clearly see that Russell and Hamilton's wings are bending noticeably. However, the wings had the necessary strength when they were approved. That doesn't surprise me. I don't know how often we had to check our wings," said Marko to OE24, an Austrian newspaper.

Despite a poor start to the 2024/25 season, Mercedes have significantly improved since their upgrade before the Monaco Grand Prix which has put Red Bull under pressure. The Montreal GP saw Russell and Hamilton finish in third and fourth respectively.

"There is a precisely defined procedure with weights under which a wing must not bend. It is a popular game of pushing everything to the limit so that it passes the technical inspection. During the race, the wing then lowers, which ensures better aerodynamics. Exactly, it has come up again and again when the deformation was clearly visible in the television images," added Marko.

With the Formula One calendar now stopping in Barcelona for the next race, all eyes will be on Red Bull as many questions are being raised about the team's dominance in the races leading up. McLaren, Ferrari and Mercedes are all on the hunt and will be hoping to give the Austrian car manufacturer a run for their money. It will be interesting to see how other cars stand in front of the Champions as the track will expose the 'true balance of power.'

"This rule of thumb should apply to us too. If we are strong in Barcelona, then hopefully we will be strong next week in Austria and a week later in Silverstone. These three races will say a lot about the true balance of power. That is why our people are working to the limit these days. In addition, Sergio Perez badly damaged his car in Monaco and Montreal," concluded the 81-year-old.
Amaravati: N Chandrababu Naidu takes charge as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh at the Secretariat. Image Source: IANS News

Amaravati, June 19 : For the first time after assuming office as Chief Minister last week, N. Chandrababu Naidu will visit Amaravati capital region area on Thursday to examine the progress of the work related to development of the state capital.

He will review the status of various buildings under construction in different parts of the region.

The Chief Minister will begin his tour from Praja Vedika, a meeting hall which was demolished by the previous government of the YSR Congress.

He will then move to the area where Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid the foundation for the capital in Uddandarayunipalem in 2015.

Chandrababu Naidu will visit the Seed Axis Road, the housing complexes being built for the All India Service officers, the Ministers and the High Court Judges and later move to the sites where construction works were started during the earlier TDP regime for the iconic buildings.

Naidu has already declared that the TDP-Jana Sena-BJP government will develop Amaravati as the sole state capital.

In 2019, Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government reversed the decision by the earlier TDP government to develop Amaravati as the state capital and announced that three state capitals will be developed.

The YSCRP government had mooted Visakhapatnam as the administrative capital, Kurnool as the judicial capital and Amaravati as the legislative capital.

Naidu assured that Visakhapatnam will be developed as a financial capital and a modern city, and Kurnool will be developed in all respects.

After assuming office as minister for municipal administration and urban development on June 16, P. Narayana said that state capital works will be completed in two-and-a-half years.

Narayana said work in Amaravati would resume soon.

"We will do a review in 15 days and decide a time-bound programme," he said while making clear that Amaravati will be developed as the old master plan.

Narayana said development of Amaravati in three phases would cost Rs 1 lakh crore.

The first phase was taken up by the earlier TDP government at a cost of Rs 48,000 crore.

He recalled that tenders were called to undertake work to provide basic amenities covering a major part of the capital and to construct residential quarters for ministers, secretaries, officials and other employees.

The then government had also made payments to the tune of Rs 9,000 crore.

He claimed that 90 per cent of the works relating to residential blocks of ministers, secretaries and officials were completed.
New Delhi, June 19 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the performance of the country's public sector banks in a thread post on social media platform X by MyGovIndia.

PM Modi has highlighted the contribution made by PSU banks to transforming the banking sector.

The Prime Minister wrote: "Insightful data on how there has been a transformation in the banking sector and how PSU banks are powering it."
Panaji, June 19 : To attract tourists to the coastal state and connect them with nature, the Goa government will launch its 'Monsoon Trekking' initiative from June 23, a senior official said on Wednesday.

The General Manager of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), Laxmikant Vaingankar, told IANS that the annual 'Monsoon Trekking' programme will begin from Tambdi Surla-Mollem in South Goa to attract tourists to the hinterland areas.

"Along with domestic and foreign tourists, local people also participate in Monsoon Trekking, which is gaining popularity. Around 30 to 40 per cent of tourists participate in this and we are hoping to increase the numbers this year," Vaingankar said.

The Tambdi Surla waterfalls are among the most famous waterfalls in the state located in the dense forests of the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary.

The trip will also include a visit to the famous Shiva temple at Tambdi Surla which is carved out of a single rock. Built in 12th century, the small, black basalt temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Many tourists visit this temple and its surroundings to explore the hinterland.

After the suspension of mining activities in the state, the tourism sector has become the backbone of the state's exchequer. And initiatives like Monsoon Trekking are helping to increase tourist footfalls.
New Delhi, June 19 : As the global community gears up to celebrate the 10th edition of International Yoga Day, this will mark another year of glory for India. Yoga, having taken birth in India, went global after Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in 2014.

It was after PM Modi's address in the United Nations in September 2014 that Yoga was recognised by the global body and an annual day was allocated for its worldwide celebration.

Interestingly, PM Modi's penchant for Yoga not only earned it a global name and fame, but it also went to inculcate a new efficient work culture in government offices, which came to be associated with the idea of 'Chintan Shibir'.

After becoming the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi was determined to imbibe a new work culture in the state, and as part of a larger vision, emphasised on developing co-ordination and synergy between the ministry and concerned government departments.

For this, he also suggested informal meetings between the two.

It was here that the idea of Chintan Shibir came into existence in 2003.

Chintan Shibir, an annual bureaucratic conclave held in Gujarat brought together the Chief Minister, his Cabinet and the entire bureaucracy ranging from District Collectors and development officers for a brainstorming session for three days.

During the three-day period, bureaucrats also performed Yoga with then Gujarat CM Modi.

Officers and employees of every category started attending these meetings and also began getting to know each other personally.

As a result of this new sociable working style, officers and other staff got along well with each other and most problems began to be solved through informal 'phone calls' rather than through paperwork.

This informal mechanism of governance also made the officers 'responsible' and 'accountable'.

The Chintan Shibirs, started by (Gujarat CM) Modi in 2003, showed promising results.

His new style of governance and handling of the bureaucracy made such an impact that it started drawing praise from all over and many other states came forward to emulate the Gujarat model.
Siliguri: Rescue operations underway as the last two compartments of the Kanchanjunga Express derail after being hit by a freight train. Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata, June 19 : The Government Railways Police (GRP) on Wednesday announced the formation of a six-member special investigation team for an independent probe in the Kanchanjunga Express-goods train collision in West Bengal's Darjeeling district on Monday, based on a complaint filed by a passenger of the train.

Superintendent, GRP, Siliguri, S. Selvamurugan, said that the special investigation team will be headed by an officer of the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Police, who will be assisted by an Inspector, two Sub-Inspectors and two Assistant Sub-Inspectors.

The parallel investigation by the GRP is running side-by-side with the investigation by the office of the Commission of Railway Safety to find out the reasons behind the collision which is being carried out under the direct supervision of the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), Janak Kumar Garg.

On Wednesday, the members of the special investigation team went to the hospital to take a statement from the assistant loco-pilot of the goods train, who had been admitted there after the accident. However, the investigating officials did not make any comment to the media based on their preliminary findings.

Meanwhile, sources in the knowhow of things said that the assistant loco-pilot of the goods train Manu Kumar is out of danger now, though he is so shattered from the psychological impact of the accident that he is not in a mental state to face full-fledged questioning in the matter. Sources said that in that case, he might be questioned again later once he is out of his trauma fully.
Mumbai, June 19 : Shiv Sena-UBT President and former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday said that the new NDA 3.0 will not last long and it will collapse soon owing to its own contradictions, while ruling out any possibility of a patch-up with the Bharatiya Janata Party.

"The NDA government will fall We want it to fall, and mid-term Lok Sabha elections must be conducted. The INDIA bloc will win and come to power," roared Thackeray at the party's 58th Foundation Day.

Targeting the BJP, he said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is propped up by Nitish Kumar, of the Janata Dal-United, and Chandrababu Naidu, of the Telugu Desam Party, and all the three had indulged in calling each other names in the past.

"They (Nitish Kumar and Naidu) have made big promises to the Muslims and other sections in their respective states of Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. Is it all acceptable to the BJP and Modi will they make their stand clear on it?" he demanded.

Countering the BJP's charge that his SS-UBT had abandoned Hindutva and was getting only Muslim votes, Thackeray shot back, saying that "all patriotic people in the country had voted decisively for the INDIA-Maha Vikas Aghadi and SS-UBT, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Buddhists, and other communities who love the country and to save democracy and constitution".

"You question our Hindutva just because we allied with the Congress But first look at yourself, how many of your allies speak of Hindutva? Are Nitish Kumar and Naidu Hindutvavadi by any yardstick?" he questioned.

"After the elections, you spread rumours that I am going to return to the NDA. I ask you all: Do you want to go back to those traitors who broke our party, took away the name and the symbol?" Thackeray asked, eliciting a thunderous no from the gathering.

Without taking names, he took a potshot at his estranged cousin and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena President Raj Thackeray for offering "unconditional" support to the NDA, "just because they didn't want Uddhav Thackeray".

Attacking Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, he dared him to fight the Assembly elections without using the late Balasaheb Thackeray's name and photos, the Shiv Sena name and symbol, and contest on a different symbol, use his father's pictures, and "then tell us your strike rate".

Hitting back at Shinde for labelling the Opposition as "urban Naxals", Thackeray said that those who break parties, misuse central investigating agencies, and scare the Opposition are the "urban Naxals".

"The battle has begun, there's no stopping till the final victory is achieved. We are waiting for the Supreme Court verdict on the disqualification issue So far, it's just 'tarikh pe tarikh' (date upon date) of hearings. I request the SC to tell us how long it will take to deliver its order. This is not a personal battle but a sincere effort to save the country's democracy and the constitution," he said.

On the Maharashtra Assembly elections slated for October, Thackeray said that he was confident that the MVA would be voted to power.
Hyderabad, June 19 : A Sub-Inspector of the Telangana Police was arrested and dismissed from service on Wednesday after he allegedly raped a woman head constable at gunpoint, officials said.

P.V.S. Bhavanisen Goud, Sub-Inspector of the Kaleshwaram police station in Jayashankar Bhupalpally district, was arrested and sent to judicial custody for sexually assaulting his female colleague.

The victim was raped on June 15 inside the old police station building near the Laxmi pump house of the Kaleshwaram project. She alleged that he threatened her with his revolver before raping her. He also warned her of severe consequences if she disclosed the incident to anyone.

Following the 42-year-old victimas complaint, the police seized the SIas service revolver and took him into custody. Goud was booked under Sections 376(2) (A) (B), 324, 449, and 506 of the IPC and Section 27 of the Arms Act, following a complaint by the constable.

Following this, more allegations emerged against the SI that he had sexually assaulted three other female police personnel.

Taking serious note of the incident, Inspector General of Police A.V. Ranganath dismissed Goud from service. The IG issued orders for his dismissal under Article 311 of the Constitution after a preliminary probe ordered on the complaint by the victim revealed that the SI sexually assaulted her.

A case was registered against Goud at Rebbena Police Station in Asifabad district in July 2022 for sexually assaulting a woman under the guise of assisting her with constable recruitment exam preparations. He was suspended but was later posted to the Kaleshwaram police station.
Dharamsala, June 19 : In a significant show of diplomatic power politics, a high-level bipartisan delegation from the US, comprising ex-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and others, met Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama at the latter's residence here despite criticism by China.

This move signals a potential escalation in diplomatic tensions as the US lawmakers asserted their stance on global human rights issues, pushing for the autonomy of Tibet within China.

"His Holiness Dalai Lama will live a long time and his legacy will live forever, but to you President of China, you will be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything," said Pelosi, a long-time supporter of the Tibetan cause, while accusing China of not doing justice with Tibet.

Pelosi's visit exemplifies solidarity and a commitment to global human rights, challenging Chinese policies.

Holding a copy of the Resolve Tibet Act, a bipartisan Bill to enhance US support for Tibet and promote dialogue between China and the Dalai Lama towards a peaceful resolution of the long-standing dispute, the Dalai Lama said, "The issue of Tibet is an issue of justice. It is not about a religious or political cause, but about the rights of the people to preserve their culture, language, and identity. The Tibetan struggle is a struggle for human rights and dignity."

The copy of the Resolve Tibet Act was presented by the Congressional delegation led by Chairman Michael McCaul, Nicole Malliotakis, Gregory W Meeks, Jim McGovern, Ami Bera, and Mariannette Miller-Meeks, besides Pelosi, who were seen waving American and Tibetan flags.

The bipartisan delegation flew into Dharamsala on Tuesday to meet the 88-year-old Nobel peace laureate and other top officials of the Tibetan government-in-exile.

Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) President Penpa Tsering said, "Grateful for your instrumental leadership in sponsoring and ensuring the passage of the Resolve Tibet Act in the US Congress. We are just one step away from this becoming a law, which will significantly add value to the middle-way policy advocated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the CTA."

At the felicitation ceremony, Republican representative McCaul said the Bill reaffirms America's support for the Tibetan right to self-determination.

"Just this week our delegation received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning us not to come here... But we did not let the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) intimidate us for we are here today," McCaul said.

Beijing, which considers the Dalai Lama a 'separatist', had said that it was seriously concerned about the visit of the US lawmakers to Dharamsala.

The US delegation visit came a day ahead of a planned trip by the Dalai Lama to the US to undergo medical treatment for his knees. However, his office told IANS that there will be no public engagement, including public audiences, of the Dalai Lama during the visit.

The Dalai Lama has been living in self-imposed exile in India since fleeing his homeland in 1959.
Hyderabad, June 19 : Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar arrived on Wednesday at his hometown Karimnagar in Telangana to a rousing welcome by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders and workers.

On reaching Karimnagar for the first time after he assumed the office as MoS, he bowed down and touched the ground.

He told mediapersons that he would work hard for the development of Karimnagar constituency. "I will do my best for the development of Karimnagar. I will be accessible to people and party workers," he said.

Sanjay Kumar also said that he would work with leaders of all parties.

The BJP leader thanked the people of the constituency for their support and love and affection.

He posted on X that he was extremely delighted to be back home and taking part in the celebrations of 'karyakartas', and receiving the affection of people.

A procession was taken out by the BJP workers to welcome Sanjay Kumar, who reached the town by road from Hyderabad. They raised slogans and burst firecrackers. Standing in an open-top vehicle, he waved at the supporters.

Traffic junctions in the town were decked up with party flags, banners and hoardings to welcome him.

The Minister of State was given a guard of honour by the police on arrival at Karimnagar Guest House. He garlanded the statue of B.R. Ambedkar.

The BJP leader also offered prayers at a local temple with family members.

"Life takes you to unexpected places, love brings you homea absolutely delighted by the warm welcome from BJP karyakarthas at Shamirpet, Vantimamidi, Turkapally, Shanigaram and Gundlapally. Your support strengthens our resolve to work tirelessly for the nation," Sanjay Kumar said in another post on X.

He appealed to BJP leaders and workers to accord a grand welcome to Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy on his arrival in Hyderabad on Thursday.

The party has announced a programme 'Salute Telangana' to welcome Kishan Reddy, who will be arriving for the first time after assuming office.
New Delhi, June 19 : The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the largest specialized agency of the United Nations focusing on agriculture, food security, and nutrition policies worldwide, is composed of 194 member countries. However, controversy has surrounded the FAO since the election and subsequent re-election of Qu Dongyu from China as Director-General in 2019.

Recently, in a documentary, a former FAO insider alleged that Chinese officials within the organisation are influencing it for geopolitical objectives, aiding the Chinese government's strategic goals through institutional means.

Qu Dongyu's election in 2019 was marred by controversy. Prior to his candidacy at the FAO, Dongyu served as Vice Minister of Agricultural and Rural Affairs in China. His election saw significant diplomatic efforts from China to secure his victory.

Reports indicated that developing countries faced pressure from China to disclose their voting intentions. Dongyu won decisively with 108 out of 191 votes but his victory was met with allegations that China had orchestrated it.

One accusation suggested China forgave a large African debt, prompting the country to withdraw its FAO candidate. Additionally, China allegedly threatened smaller developing nations burdened with Chinese debt with economic repercussions if they did not support Dongyu.

Following the 2019 election, the FAO underwent significant restructuring and saw an increase in Chinese nationals appointed as directors within its central departments, rising from two to six under Qu Dongyu's leadership.

These officials are believed to report their activities at the FAO to the Chinese Embassy in Rome, where the FAO is headquartered.

Paid by the Chinese government, they are expected to promote Chinese political ideology on international platforms.

Notably, one Chinese national assumed directorial responsibility for the department overseeing crop production and pesticide management.

Under Dongyu's tenure, a controversial shift occurred as the FAO formed a partnership with pesticide companies, contradicting its efforts to minimise pesticide dependency as a last resort.

In October 2020, the FAO signed a strategic agreement with Crop Life International (CLI), a trade association advocating agricultural technologies including pesticides, despite CLI companies reportedly deriving a significant portion of their sales from highly hazardous pesticides linked to environmental damage and farmer poisoning.

The partnership sparked strong backlash from environmental activists, with 352 civil society organisations and indigenous groups from 63 countries voicing concerns to FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu.

Similar objections were echoed by scientists, researchers, and academics. However, Dongyu did not directly address these major concerns, prompting continued appeals from a global coalition advocating for environmental justice to urge the FAO to terminate its alliance with CLI.

The FAO's collaboration with pesticide companies and its authorization of pesticide shipments since 2020 were highlighted in an internal document.

It revealed the distribution of numerous hazardous pesticides to Asian and African countries, which are banned in Western nations due to their high toxicity levels.

Since late 2019, over 95.8 per cent of the pesticides approved and delivered by the FAO to East African countries have been scientifically proven to cause serious harm to human health and ecosystems.

Half of these pesticides, authorized for managing locust plagues as emergencies, contain chlorpyrifos, a chemical known to cause brain damage in children and fetuses, and banned in the EU.

These revelations have raised ethical concerns about the FAO's management practices and China's increasing influence within the organization. Questions regarding the specificity of pesticide approvals remain unanswered by the FAO.

FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu faced additional criticism from Western countries for suspending the UN's Joint Inspection Unit (JIU) from conducting an independent review of his leadership until after the next FAO election held in July 2023.

Dongyu's alignment with Chinese foreign policy in responding to the global food crisis exacerbated by the Ukraine conflict was also condemned by the West, further undermining the FAO's effectiveness and credibility.

China's interest in leveraging the FAO's influence in global food dynamics stems from its status as the world's largest agricultural sector.

Beijing sees control over the FAO as crucial for asserting dominance globally, particularly in culturally aligned regions of the global south and to advance its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The FAO Director-General's initiatives like the Hand-in-Hand (HiH) Initiative and South-South Cooperation are seen as serving China's foreign policy goals.

In 2021, a EU delegate expressed concerns that the HiH Initiative could be monitoring social unrest worldwide, but requests for clarification from the FAO were denied.

The FAO's lack of accountability mirrors the autocratic tendencies of the Chinese government, which is alarming.

Furthermore, the FAO is accused of obstructing the publication of leaked documents unfavourable to Chinese interests in the global market.

Under Qu Dongyu's leadership and amid increasing Chinese influence, the FAO appears aligned with Beijing's national interests, prompting calls from the international community for greater transparency and ethical governance in global agricultural policies.
Imphal, June 19 : The Congress-led INDIA bloc, comprising 10 parties, on Wednesday, urged the Manipur government to restore peace and normalcy in the state at the earliest.

An INDIA bloc delegation, led by former Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, separately met Governor Anusuiya Uikey and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and demanded an early amicable solution to the ethnic crisis.

A Raj Bhavan statement said that Ibobi Singh, while expressing disappointment and unhappiness with the protracted conflict, which has been going on since May 3 last year, said Jiribam district has become the new hotspot of violence and its residents have fled their homes and have been taking shelter in various relief camps.

"Expressing concerns over the incidents, Singh urged the Governor to ensure adequate state security forces in the Jiribam district. Other leaders of the delegation drew the attention of the Governor for ensuring free flow vehicular movement so that essential commodities including petroleum products are made available as usual," an INDIA bloc statement said.

The INDIA bloc delegation also urged that the Centre and the state governments should take necessary actions to restore peace and normalcy in the state.

The Governor told the delegation that all efforts have been made to ensure peace and security in the state and to bring a lasting solution to the crisis. She said that she had apprised President Droupadi Murmu, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman of the situation in the state and requested them to take immediate steps to stop all forms of violence, to bridge the gap between the two communities, and bring about a long-lasting peace in the state, a Raj Bhavan statement said.

She also said that she had informed the Home Minister about the condition of the displaced people who have been taking shelter in various relief camps, and the Finance Minister about the economic condition in the state and requested financial assistance. The Governor assured the delegation that she would continue her efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the state, the Raj Bhavan statement said.

Communist Party of India leader M. Nara, who was also in the INDIA bloc delegation, said that they raised similar demands before the Chief Minister.

He told the media that the violence-hit people in Jiribam district were keen to return to their homes if the state government provided adequate security to them.

Meanwhile, with further improvement of the situation in Jiribam district, adjoining southern Assam, the district administration announced a relaxation of the curfew for four and a half hours from 9 a.m. on Thursday too, like Wednesday.

The indefinite curfew was imposed in mixed-population Jiribam district after the killing of 59-year-old farmer Soibam Saratkumar Singh on June 6, leading to around 900 tribals belonging to the Kuki and Hmar communities taking shelter at the homes of relatives and friends in two villages in the Cachar district of southern Assam, while around 1,000 people, mostly belonging to the Meitei community, are now sheltered in seven relief camps in Jiribam.
Bengaluru: Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa being produced in court following his alleged role in a murder over obscene texts. Image Source: IANS News

Bengaluru, June 19 : The Karnataka police probing the fan murder case involving Kannada superstar Darshan questioned his wife Vijayalakshmi for nearly five hours at the Annapoorneshwari Nagar police station here on Wednesday.

Darshan, his 'partner' and co-star Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others have been arrested on charges of murdering Renukaswamy (33), a resident of Chitradurga.

The probe so far revealed that Renukaswamy was a big fan of Darshan and had sent derogatory messages to Pavithra Gowda on social media. The victim was allegedly kidnapped, brought to Bengaluru, kept in a shed, and brutally tortured to death.

Vijayalakshmi appeared before the police at 12 noon and was questioned till 5 p.m.

After the questioning, she left the police station without speaking to the media.

Meanwhile, the police have seized Darshan's designer loafers from Vijayalakshmi's residence, which he allegedly wore on the day of the murder. Sources said the police had gathered information that Darshan tried to hide the shoes.

Later, taking to Instagram, Vijayalakshmi said, "At the outset, I express my heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, Sri Renukaswamy."

She also obtained an order from a sessions court restraining the media from printing, publishing, or telecasting news or any other information about her husband's personal and family life in connection with the case.

In her post, she said, "The last few days have been full of anguish for Darshan, myself, my teenage son, and all of Darshan's friends, family, and fans. With this order issued by the Honorable Court, I hope people will put to rest some falsified information and untruths that were being spread across various media and social media platforms.

"I urge everyone to kindly publish only what is officially put out by the enforcement authorities. I have full faith in Ma Chamundeshwari and in our legal system. Let Justice Prevail. Satyameva Jayate."

Meanwhile, Kannada actor Pratham has lodged a complaint with the police against the fans of Darshan for the life threats he received on social media.

Pratham had criticised Darshan and said that if he were made a cop for a day, he would pick up a baton and shoo away Darshan's fans standing outside the police station where he is being held.

"I have been receiving threatening calls for the past three days. I have urged the police not to arrest the fans, but to warn them," he said.
Bhopal, June 19 : The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has announced a proposal for '5G Intelligent Village' showcasing the advantages of 5G connectivity, for which it has selected 10 villages from different states.

Out of these, three villages are from Madhya Pradesh -- Raosar, Aari, and Banskhedi -- which come under the Guna Lok Sabha constituency represented by Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.

This news came 10 days after Scindia assumed charge as the Union Minister of Communications.

Scindia, who contested his sixth Lok Sabha elections this year, but the first on a BJP ticket, from his family bastion Guna, won against Congress' Rao Yadvendra Singh Yadav by a margin of more than 5 lakh votes.

According to the Department of Telecommunications' (DoT) official statement, the '5G Intelligent Village' initiative aims to enable effective utilisation of Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) and massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC) aspects of 5G in selected villages.

"Proposals can also include plans for establishing 5G connectivity in areas without the existing coverage. This initiative aims to unite telecom service providers, sensor manufacturers, CCTV suppliers, and IoT providers on a single platform to explore and exploit the potential advantages of 5G, serving as a hub for research and development in this field," it said.

The DoT has invited participants from industry, small businesses, startups, academia, and government departments involved in technology design, development, and commercialisation of telecom products and solutions.
United Nations, June 20 : Warning about the increased sophistication of small arms and the use of drones to get them to terrorists, India has called for universal condemnation of countries providing weapons to terrorists.

"The increase in volume and the quality of the arsenal acquired by these terrorist organisations reminds us time and again that they cannot exist without the sponsorship or support of States," R. Ravindra, the Charge d'Affaires of India's UN Mission, said.

"This aspect needs to be unequivocally condemned," he said on Tuesday at the UN Conference reviewing the progress of the programme against illicit small arms. He did not name any country arming terrorists, but Pakistan is principally behind the flow of weapons to terrorists operating against India.

"For several decades, my country has suffered immensely due to cross-border terrorism and violence carried out by terrorist groups using these illicit weapons smuggled across our borders, including now through the use of drones," Ravindra said.

"India views illicit possession and misuse of small arms and light weapons by non-state groups and terrorists as a violation of state sovereignty," he said.

Under-Secretary-General Izumi Nakamitsu, speaking earlier, mentioned the dangers of terrorists getting small arms.

"There is nothing 'small' or 'light' about the damage these weapons cause," she said. "They aggravate crime, displacement and terrorism."

She warned: "The situation is growing worse, as new developments in the manufacturing, technology and design of small arms  such as 3D printing  make their illegal production and trafficking easier than ever before."

Nakamitsu noted that the New Agenda for Peace proposed last year by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "calls for regional efforts across borders to stem the flow and trafficking of small arms and light weapons".

Ravindra proposed a novel programme, Regional 911, bringing together countries in a region to dismantle arms trafficking, and improve tracking and security of small and light weapons to keep them out of the reach of "wrong hands". He spoke of the scourge of the illicit trade and the transfer of small and light arms in vulnerable areas.

"In post-conflict situations, we often witness that non-State actors continue to possess these weapons illegally, which hinders disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration efforts," he said.

"India maintains strict export controls over all munitions and related items, including small arms and light weapons," he said.

He offered to share the nation's expertise with countries New Delhi, he noted, is a member of the Wassenaar Arrangement, an international pact against the illegal transfer of arms and dual-use items. (Pakistan and China are not participants in it).

India has also signed all the thirteen counter-terrorism conventions and has ratified the UN Convention on Transnational Organised Crime and its Protocol on Firearms, he added.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis)
Bengaluru, June 19 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has voiced concerns over growing caste consciousness and superstitious beliefs among educated individuals in the state.

He said those who have studied to become doctors believe in superstition, destiny and karma, adding that the students must not believe in superstitions.

The Chief Minister spoke at the felicitation programme organised by the Department of Social Welfare and Karnataka Residential Educational Institutions Association to felicitate the students who have fared well in the Secondary School Leaving Certificate and Pre-University Course (PUC) exams.

"Inspired by the Dalit Sangharsh Samiti's -- "We don't want liquor, we want residential schools," movement in the state, Morarji schools were established in rural areas which was included in my first Budget," Siddaramaiah said.

"In rural areas, everyone should get quality, rational and scientific education. He said that due to the caste system, inequality has been created in the society. Our Constitution has provided opportunities for children of all castes and classes to study," he added.

"Due to the caste system, inequality has been created in the society and it needs to be eradicated. I got the opportunity to become Chief Minister only because I got an education. Otherwise, I would have limited myself to grazing buffaloes and cows," he said.

"Buddha and Basavanna worked hard to erase the caste system centuries ago. The Chief Minister regretted that caste consciousness is increasing among educated people."

The Chief Minister congratulated all the students who scored high marks in class 10 and PUC and all the teachers who helped these students achieve this.

"We are the ones who teach children to discriminate against caste and religion. So parents and teachers should first come out of superstition. He said that then the children will also grow to be rational and develop a scientific temper and create a better future."

"In the past, girls of the upper caste also did not have the opportunity for education. Girls of all castes were exploited in the matter of education."

The Chief Minister expressed his happiness that girls were faring well in education.
From zero to $10.5 billion-plus in a decade-and-a-half.

North Dakota's Legacy Fund, originally constructed as a rainy day fund to help provide a revenue source to cover state expenses after oil and gas revenue disappears, has morphed into a much larger beast: a sovereign wealth fund.

State regulators also now refer to it as such, but some question whether it is really being run as a full-fledged sovereign wealth fund on par with others around the country and world.

Among those with questions is Jamestowns Brian Lunde. Hes studied sovereign wealth funds since working as a national field director for Jimmy Carters presidential campaign in 1976 and throughout the subsequent years as a political consultant in Washington, D.C., including time as an advisor to the George W. Bush administration.

Lunde briefed the governor campaigns of U.S. Rep. Kelly Armstrong, R-N.D., and District 44 Sen. Merrill Piepkorn, D-Fargo, about the Legacy Fund in the lead-up to the June 11 primary.

Those briefings included discussions on increased transparency and oversight on investments to ensure theyre being made strategically with clear objectives for North Dakota, both for in-state and out-of-state investments.

They also included pushing for the State Investment Board, chaired by the lieutenant governor, to take a more active role in positioning the fund as a sovereign wealth fund.

Strategic reform

Those ideas appear to be gaining some traction.

In an interview before the primary, Armstrong said the first thing to recognize about the Legacy Fund is that it shows how the state has become addicted to oil money.

Around 52% of North Dakotas state budget is now paid for by state oil and gas revenue.

Since being approved by voters and created in 2010, 30% of extraction taxes have gone into the fund.

Armstrong said that while the fund always needs to exist as a replacement revenue stream, there is a bigger, broader conversation for the Legislature that needs to be had about its direction.

Armstrong also said the SIB and the Legislature should take a more active role in setting strategic investment policy for the Legacy Fund.

The State Investment Board can make the call, they can sit down and say These are the things we care about, and the Legislature can give guidance, Armstrong said.

He is also concerned that investments arent being monitored closely enough, potentially to the states detriment.

Common sense determines that when you have a State Investment Board you can say, Listen, agriculture and energy are the number one and number two industries in North Dakota, and we can get a rate of return without investing in companies that are uniquely situated to dislike agriculture and energy, Armstrong said.

Piepkorn said that while the original purpose of the fund was to potentially sustain the state in lean times post-oil, investing in the future of North Dakota is becoming more important as the fund emerges into a more mature sovereign wealth vehicle.

I do not believe the Legacy Fund should be used to pay our day-to-day bills, if we had a shortfall or something -- thats why we have a budget, Piepkorn said.

He also is not in favor of using Legacy Fund money to get rid of property taxes, which has been floated as a potential initiated measure.

If we, the Legislature, granted every wish that the public had, we could probably get rid of that $10 billion dollar balance in the Legacy Fund in one session, he said. I dont believe thats a proper and responsible way to address the property tax problem.

Lunde said the SIB has the power to develop new goals and objectives that can both grow the fund and also invest in a future economy that will eventually fill state coffers once oil and gas revenue dwindles.

Changes underway

Others argue a strategic shift is underway and the SIB has already been provided some of that direction through the Legislatures Legacy Fund and Budget Stabilization Advisory Board.

One aspect of that is the creation of the North Dakota Growth Fund, which shifts Legacy Fund principal directly toward in-state investment, with all investments going out by 2030.

State Treasurer Thomas Beadle, an SIB board member, said it is a fundamental misunderstanding to say the SIB is responsible for setting the strategic vision of the Legacy Fund.

That (legislative) board is the one that sets the investment policy statements, that sets those strategic visions, those goals, those objectives, Beadle said. The staff at SIB, it is then their job to execute on that, but (the legislative board) is actually the governing body for the Legacy Fund.

For the 2023-25 period, the state budget stands at $19.61 billion. Thats up from $16.94 billion in the previous two-year period, and up from $14.69 billion in the period before that.

With the way the budget is growing, if oil and gas revenue disappeared, the current amount in the Legacy Fund theoretically wouldnt last long.

If you think about $10 billion, thats only two biennia, said Sen. Jerry Klein, R-Fessenden, chair of the Legacy Fund and Budget Stabilization Advisory Board as well as an SIB board member.

Compared to other sovereign wealth funds around the country, the Legacy Fund is still in its infancy. Alaskas stands at $77 billion, the fund in Texas at $66 billion, New Mexicos at $44 billion and Wyomings at $23 billion -- all outpacing North Dakotas fund.

Were on our way, Klein said of building up the fund to similar levels, remarking that it was only in 2017 that earnings from the fund started to be used.

We have to be careful, we have to be prudent, we have to follow the direction that was given in 2010 by the citizens that said we have to save this for the future, Klein said.

This is a long-term investment in North Dakota and its going to be a long-term return, he said.

The Legislature can take only 15% from the principal during a two-year period if it is needed to cover shortfalls, and only if two-thirds of lawmakers approve.

The Legacy Fund includes the principal -- which is the current $10.55 billion -- and the earnings off the growth of the fund.

Since 2019, each legislative session has decided how much of the earnings to transfer to the states general budget.

The last three disbursements to the general budget were over $455 million, over $871 million and over $486 million, with the Legislature then deciding how to use that for various in-state programs.

The latest move by the Legislature was to allow 7% of the five-year average of earnings to go into the state budget to keep it from trending upward so quickly.

In 2021, the Legislature also committed to divert $1.3 billion directly from the Legacy Fund principal toward in-state investment via the North Dakota Growth Fund.

That includes $700 million to infrastructure projects and another $600 million to supporting new and growing businesses through the Growth Fund, with all investments projected to be made by 2030.

So far $89 million has been committed to five funds and four direct co-investments in-state by 50 South Capital, with a total of around $40 million of that deployed.

50 South Capital is a private equity and hedge fund investment firm based out of Chicago, but has a North Dakota-based team that selects the in-state investments.

On course or adrift?

Lunde believes it may be time to decouple the Legacy Fund from the same body that manages state pension funds, the Retirement and Investment Office, with the fund under direct oversight of the SIB and an independent board.

Sovereign wealth funds need their own management system, he said. The goals and objectives of a sovereign wealth fund are usually different and not necessarily compatible with the goals and objectives of a pension fund. But we've never faced that fact.

Besides the Legacy Fund, the SIB also oversees the state pension funds -- the Teachers' Fund for Retirement, the Public Employees Retirement System -- as well as the Workforce Safety & Insurance Fund. RIO manages those investments and reports to the SIB.

Under RIO are some in-house investment managers as well as contracted outside money managers who are tasked with making investment decisions in line with the goals of the Legacy Fund, with the main goal being to prioritize investment returns.

Lunde is concerned that since the Legacy Fund investments are done through the same entity as the pension investments, strategic policy is adrift.

While managed by the same office that manages the pension funds, Legacy Fund investments have never been pooled with the pension fund investments, an RIO spokesman said.

The fund is under a separate advisory board from those managing pension investments, with that being the Legislatures Legacy Fund and Budget Stabilization Advisory Board.

While the Legacy Funds Investment Policy Statement says it may be pooled with other funds, it is managed separately from other client funds and has been since fiscal year 2015, RIO Executive Director Jan Murtha said in a written response to several questions.

Lunde said his point is that the outside investment managers who get the deposits from both the Legacy Fund and pension fund pools dont really see them any differently.

The manager buys, let's say, some Apple stock for the Legacy Fund and some Apple stock for the pension fund, Lunde said. The deposits from the Legacy Fund are just treated like the deposits from the pension fund. Therefore, there is no strategic difference between the two. If you're the money manager, the strategy is the same for both pots of money.

Overall, RIO manages around $21 billion including the Legacy Fund and the pension funds. It has 29 employees, with half of those on the Teachers Fund side. A total of six employees are dedicated to investments and two to risk management.

RIO is also trying to do more investment management in-house, with a short-term goal to hire five more investment managers and another two operational staff.

That could cut some costs which go to outside money manager fees, as well as flesh out the backbone for more strategic investment and oversight.

On the money managers side, 27 outside investment managers are currently handling Legacy Fund investments.

At the close of last fiscal year, with the fund valued at $8.59 billion, a total of $38.13 million was paid out in fees to those outside investment managers.

There is a price to pay for investment, so perhaps hiring more in-house managers can make a dent in some of those costs.

RIO said internal investment teams working on pension or sovereign wealth fund investments are common in other states, mentioning Alaska, Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin, and that the cost of an internal team is low compared to fees to outside money managers.

In addition to the cost savings, well have greater control over investment strategies, RIO Chief Investment Officer Scott Anderson said.

RIO eventually wants to bring around half of its investments under in-house management, with approval of the SIB and Legislature, though the office says more complex investment strategies will still need to utilize outside managers.

(Editors Note: Brian Lunde worked with North Dakota News Cooperative in an advisory capacity for the North Dakota Poll.)
Bengaluru, June 20 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced on Wednesday that the state government aims to achieve an annual industrial growth rate of 15-16 per cent to reach a $1 trillion economy by 2032.

Addressing a curtain-raiser event for the upcoming Global Investor Meet 'Invest Karnataka 2025' scheduled to be held in February next year, Siddaramaiah said that over the last decade, the state has posted a growth of 9.3 per cent.

"The government's vision extends beyond the urban centers, intending to spread industries to rural regions, particularly Kalyana Karnataka, through focused cluster development initiatives," Siddaramaiah said.

Stating that Karnataka seeks to showcase its technological prowess and manufacturing excellence through the Global Investor Meet, the Chief Minister said, "We aspire to position Karnataka on the global stage as a leading player in the global supply chain."

At the event, state Large and Medium Industries Minister M.B. Patil launched the 'ventuRISE 2025' and announced that a new Karnataka Industrial Policy 2025-2030 is being drafted to include the best-in-class incentives to ensure competitiveness in attracting investors.

"The theme of this edition, 'Reimagining Growth', reflects the role Karnataka wishes to play in promoting growth that is tech-driven, green, inclusive, and resilient," Patil said.

In the run-up to the grand event, various high-level meetings, events, roadshows, and other programmes will be organised.

The highlights include the first edition of SME Connect '25, the second edition of VentuRISE - Global Startup Challenge and Startup Conclave, and the Future of Innovation exhibition, Patil said.

There will be a series of global roadshows to introduce Karnataka's manufacturing ecosystem to international companies and visits to foreign nations to invite industry leaders for the Global Investor Meet.

These visits include a trip to Japan from June 24 to 28, covering Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, followed by a visit to South Korea from July 1 to 5, covering Seoul, Incheon, and the Gyeonggi area, Patil said.
Guwahati/Itanagar, June 20 : Incessant monsoon rains during the past few days triggered landslides, floods and water-logging in several northeastern states, affecting around 3.20 lakh people and badly affecting normal life besides damaging public and private property, officials said on Wednesday.

According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), incessant rain has thrown life out of gear in a majority of the districts in the state with around three lakh people people in 19 districts reeling under the fury of floods.

ASDMA officials said that 105 relief camps were set up in different districts to provide shelter to the flood-affected people while 3,326.31 hectares of cropland have been affected by the current flood.

In the current monsoon flood, at least 26 people died so far in different districts of Assam.

In Arunachal Pradesh, landslides, floods, and water-logging have badly affected the normal life for several thousand people in different districts.

A portion of National Highway-415 and a culvert were washed away at Karsingsa, severing connectivity between Nirjuli and Banderdewa. Officials said eight relief camps have been established in Itanagar and adjoining areas to provide temporary shelter to those affected by landslides and flooding.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who also holds the Disaster Management portfolio, held a review meeting on Wednesday with officials. He has urged the people to stay safe, take necessary precautions, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated on weather advisories, emphasizing that the administration is on high alert to ensure everyone's safety.

In Meghalaya, nonstop rain in the state over the last few days has claimed two lives and affected over 3,000 people in 42 villages in six districts.

Meghalaya State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA) officials said that the deceased were identified as Probino Warbah, 48, in East Khasi Hills and Kantly Maram, 49, in West Khasi Hills.

The incessant rain and flood also affected life and damaged houses and roads in Mizoram and Tripura.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted heavy rains in several states in the northeast over the next few days.
Patna June 20 : The Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, Vijay Kumar Sinha, claimed on Wednesday that Sikandar Yadvendu, who was arrested in the NEET question paper leak case, is a close relative Pritam Kumar, the personal secretary of former Deputy CM and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav.

The investigation being conducted by the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar Police has identified Sikandar Yadvendu, a junior engineer in the municipal committee of Danapur, as the kingpin of the NEET question paper leak case.

"Sikandar Yadvendu is a close relative of Tejashwi Yadav's PS Pritam Kumar. An NHAI guest house was booked for Sikandar's sister Reena Yadav and son Anurag Yadav to stay on May 4. A phone number and 'Mantri Ji' were mentioned in the diary of the NHAI guest house. The investigating agency is making efforts to know the identity of this Mantri Ji," Sinha said.

Sinha, who also holds the road construction portfolio, said that he has ordered an inquiry into the booking of the NHAI guest house.

"I am getting a thorough investigation done by my department to find out which officers or employees are working at the behest of Tejashwi Yadav. The entire system of RJD is based on crime and corruption," Sinha said.

The EOU has found evidence that the question papers of NEET 2024 were leaked. The examination was held on May 5 and the question paper was leaked a day earlier on May 4.

The kingpin of this gang is Sikandar Yadavendu, who has been arrested. The EOU claims that Sikandar made his brother-in-law's son and many other candidates memorise the answers by giving them the question paper in advance.

On May 5, the police arrested Reena Yadav from the NHAI guest house. The EOU also found an OMR sheet from the guest house. Reena's son Anurag's name is written in the register of the guest house, with 'Mantri Ji' written next to it.

Sikandar is a resident of Samastipur. He used to work as a contractor in Ranchi. In 2012, he became a junior engineer. He was an accused in the LED scam of Rs 3 crore and served a jail term as well.
Bhubaneswar, June 20 : A four-hour relaxation in curfew on Thursday has been allowed in Odisha's Balasore town where a clash between two groups was witnessed a few days ago, following which a curfew was imposed.

An official said the decision was taken after the town gradually began limping towards normalcy.

The curfew was clamped in the Balasore municipality area following a clash in the city on Monday.

Speaking to the mediapersons after a high-level meeting on Wednesday, Balasore Collector Ashish Thakare said: "Curfew will be eased tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. We will allow the opening of different commercial establishments so that people can do their daily needs without any difficulties.

"A proposal has been sent to the Home Department to ease the ban on the Internet for emergency services like banking operations. As a matter of precaution, the schools, anganwadi centers and colleges will remain closed for at least the next two days."

Balasore District Superintendent of Police, Sagarika Nath, said that a heavy deployment of police personnel has been made to tackle any incidents of violence.

She said that Border Security Force personnel would be deployed for confidence-building exercises in the sensitive areas of Balasore town.

As many as 10 FIRs have been registered while 35 people were arrested in connection with the violence.

Several others have also been detained for violating curfew.

As per the sources, some residents after noticing blood flowing in a nearby drain, appealed to the administration to stop the alleged slaughtering of animals as several religious places are located in close vicinity.

The residents later blocked the Chandipur-Balasore main road as the local administration allegedly failed to address their concerns.

Upon being informed, police and other officials of district administration reached the spot and tried to placate a group of protesters.

Meanwhile, the situation soon flared up after the opposite group resorted to stone pelting.
As the illustrator for projects like Newbery Medalist Matt de la Penas Love (Putnam) and National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gormans Change Sings (Viking), Loren Long has sometimes had to put his own story ideas on the back burner. During the pandemic, as he ran with his dog every day, he passed an abandoned school bus in the middle of a goat paddock. What was it doing there? An idea took shape in his mind about a school bus whose capacity to offer shelter to living beings filled her with joy, no matter where she found herself. A two-book deal with Roaring Brooks Jen Besser gave him the chance to complete it. In The Yellow Bus, he traces the buss journey in a tale whose changing landscape tells a story of its own. PW spoke with Long from his home in Cincinnati about working with charcoal dust, complicating his characters lives, and representing the passing of time.

How did The Yellow Bus get to Macmillan?

Ive been blessed and lucky, because Ive always had a book in the works, or maybe a couple of contracts, and sometimes my ideas have been set aside because of opportunity. So my agent, Steve Malk, said, You know what, youve got the stories. I think we should do an auction. And Im thinking, Im glad hes going to do it, because I wouldnt have the nerve. But he sent it out to a number of publishers and it came across Jen Bessers desk. Jen was the editor for Love, and she was head of Putnam [Books for Young Readers] at the time. I had lost track of her, but she went off to Macmillanshes the head of all of Macmillan childrens, now, and shes the greatest, sweetest person youd ever want to meet. And I got to talk to her again, and immediately she was bringing thoughts and ideas, and then she brought on this wonderful editor, Kate Meltzer.

The book is a departure for you, visuallyall black and white except for that brilliant yellow bus. Was that the plan from the beginning?

I was doing the book dummy, so it was several months of just drawing and pacing. And it hit me. I had to pitch it to the team. I had to convince them that I could focus on yellow as the iconic color, working in charcoal, very gritty and textural and scratchy, and then fusing in the acrylic. The bus would jump off the page. I didnt even know how it would look. Id never tried drawing with dust and then painting into the same scene.

Dust?

Its charcoal dust [holds up a jar of black powder]. I most often use a Q-tip to rub it onto the surface. And then I draw with charcoal pencils. This is all stuff you can get in any art store. I love doing charcoal. I put the dust on the paper and then erase it. It can be really dynamic, and also very subtle and nuanced. So I was really enjoying this, but the deadline was starting to come into the picture. So Jen and Kate and [art director] Beth Clark said, Could you show us one? Before we give you the green light? So I did one of my favorite scenes, and I think I just took a photo with my phone and emailed it to them. And they said, Go for it!

So many creators, if they read this, are just going to laugh, because Im doing things like I did when I was in seventh grade. I could be doing work digitallyI still might! At the same time, the stuff Im showing you is fun to work with, and dirty. It makes me feel like Im in junior high art school class.

In the authors note, you explain the genesis of the storythat it grew out of the abandoned school bus you passed every day. But then the story deepened for you. Can you talk about finding your way into it?

It was probably almost a year of seeing that bus in all different kinds of weather. And, one day, the goats were climbing inside. And oh my gosh, there was one on top of the bus! It was me thinking, wondering, how the bus got there. It started out bright and shiny, and how dismal it seems now. But then it struck me: she doesnt seem sad. She seems happy!

Was the bus she from the beginning?

That feeling came quickly, from the third line. The first line, I wrote his/her/its. Then the second line I wrote he. And from that point further, it was she. I think it was the right decision.

So then I came to the logic that shes filled with joy. It seems like shes in hard places. It doesnt matter if shes not carrying the children that she was in the bright and shiny beginning of her life. I knew that this bus was going to end up at the lowest possible place I could come up with. I was like, I want to surprise the reader, and this character. Patti Gauch, my editor at Philomel, once told me, you take your character and you get it stuck up in a tree. And then you throw rocks at it.

How was it, working with the team at Roaring Brook?

I really felt connected to them. They were intuitively picking up on things that I felt about the story. I love collaborating. Its a very isolated venture, making a book. Youre sitting there by yourself, and youre trying to make a drawing work. Its nice to know that youve got these brilliant people up in New York that have your back. And they did!

What were some of the notes they had for you?

Well, the first low point, the first valley in the book, is when [the bus] is abandoned under the bridge. And I did the sketch where all you see is the empty bus. I had set up these rules of the colors; any person or thing that steps on the bus or into her world is going to be in color. And I said, Okay, so for this one, its just going to be a silhouette of the shape of the bus. And itll probably just be really muted, yellowy colors, and Beth said, Loren, what if we broke our rule here, and you made this beautiful sunset? And then inside, shes in charcoalbasically, gray.

Some readers will pick up on all these details. Many wont. But you do them anyway, because they inform the whole story.

The authors note describes the three-dimensional model town you built for the story, so that you could see and draw it from every angle. How did you use the town to show the passage of time visually?

If you really look at the art from the first page, youre seeing the entire setting of the bookthat little town. At the top left, you see the rolling hill down to a lower farm, then a bridge through a mountain, then a lower farm, and a river running through it like a little gorge. And I knew that three, four, or five times in this book, my readers are going to see an overhead view of this setting.

So in the middle of the book, when the tow truck comes to tow the bus to the farm, readers can see that the lower farm has changed. Theyre building houses. You can see theres a little cemetery, and some readers may notice how that changes. Theres some construction in the back of one of the scenes, and theyre building an overpass right through the city. Because there are so few words, I want readers to read those pictures, and slow the pace of the story. Because it does span a long time. Quickly.

I figure the book spans about 60 years. My sketches originally had the children climbing in with backpacks. And then I thought, I never had a backpack. We just carried our books. And we had bell bottoms and those Moon shoes; theres a little girl with Moon shoes on.

How about the writingdid it come easily?

I was able to keep it minimal, because I know whos going to illustrate it. Im going to be able to show it. The writing came out with a certain voice, which is rare for me. I think there is a little bit of The Giving Tree in it, but maybe more hopeful. And then I also love Virginia Lee Burton; I love that kind of sensibility, the passage of time. And so thats in there somewhere, too.

What are you working on now?

The Yellow Bus comes out June 25. And I just finished art for a book called Home, written by Matt de la Pena. Its a poetic reverie about the word home, just like he did with the word love. That will publish, I believe, in spring of 25. After that I have a follow-up book with the team at Roaring Brook, but it wont be related to The Yellow Bus. I think the Macmillan team is turning me into a writer.

The Yellow Bus by Loren Long. Roaring Brook, $19.99 June 25 ISBN 978-1-250-90313-6
Its been a long journey for Katherine Applegate and her The One and Only books. The One and Only Ivan, the story of a silverback gorilla who has been kept in captivity at a shopping mall for 27 years, came out in 2012 and won the 2013 Newbery Medal. The One and Only Bob and The One and Only Ruby followed in 2020 and 2023, and The One and Only Family, published in May with a 500,000-copy first printing, brought the series to a close. Last month Applegate embarked on an eight-city tour; she visited 17 schools and spoke to more than 5,000 students, and held nine public events attended by more than 1,500 fans. Here we present some photo highlights from her tour.

Applegate kicked off her tour in Denver with The Bookies, with two school visits and, shown here, an evening event at Smoky Hill Library. Photo: Andrea Perry.

Her event with Interabang Books in Dallas was held at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church.

In Fairhope, Ala., Applegate visited two schools and had an evening public event at Page & Palette bookstore. Here she visits Bayside Academy in nearby Daphne, where she spoke to 400 students in grades two to six.

Applegate with media specialist Terri Frank (l.) after presenting to nearly 500 students at J. Larry Newton Elementary School in Fairhope.

Applegate spent two days in the Twin Cities visiting four schools, culminating with an evening event at the Ramsey County Public Library. From her visit to Red Balloon in St. Paul: (from l.) store owner Holly Weinkauf, Applegate, and events manager Claire OBrien.

Greeting a student at Brookfield East High School in Milwaukee. Photo: Eric Hagen, Elmbrook Schools.

Applegates Milwaukee public event was held at the Glenview Public Library in partnership with Boswell Book Company.

An appearance at Barnes & Noble in Oak Brook, Ill.

Applegates tour ended with a visit to Vancouver, Canada, with a public event and four school visits, coordinated by Kidsbooks. Here Applegate poses with Carrie LaPierre (r.), a teacher at Henry Anderson Elementary School.
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Update: Tim Walz Cozied Up to Anti-Semitic Terror Defender Bazian, Free Beacon

By Paul Sperry, RealClearInvestigations

June 19, 2024

Echoing the Muslim prophet Muhammad, Professor Hatem Bazian, a University of California, Berkeley lecturer, told his fellow Muslims: The Day of Judgment will never happen until you fight the Jews.

At the Santa Clara conference sponsored by the American Muslim Alliance, Bazian exhorted the crowd: They are on the west side of the river, which is the Jordan River, and youre on the east side until the trees and the stones will say, Oh Muslim, there is a Jew hiding behind me. Come and kill him! And thats in the Hadith [the sayings and deeds of Muhammad] about this. This is a future battle before the Day of Judgment.

One group pivotal to the anti-Israel protests that Bazian helped create ...

Bazians threatening prophecy from 1999 might be lost to history but for the central role he has been playing in the anti-Israel protests that have erupted at college campuses. Two groups he helped create, Students for Justice in Palestine and American Muslims for Palestine, have been instrumental in organizing the demonstrations. In recent months he has visited the encampments from coast to coast, exhorting students to condemn Israel for launching counterstrikes in Gaza after marauding Hamas terrorists attacked and slaughtered more than 1,200 Israelis in October and took hundreds of others captive, including several Americans. Bazian has urged students to call on administrators and national leaders to protect Palestinian civilians in Gaza, whom he claims are victims of a genocide carried out by the Israeli government.

... and another: American Muslims for Palestine.

Although many opponents of Israels war against Hamas deny that their movement is tied to antisemitism, critics say Bazians deep involvement in the protests and his long history of inflammatory rhetoric against the Jewish people puts that claim in doubt. The campus unrest is being driven by people with a very troubling past, said Jon Schanzer, a former U.S. Treasury counterterrorism official. Theyre trying to legitimize Hamas.

Drawing on a wide array of public records, RealClearInvestigations found that Bazian has been agitating against Jews and Israel on college campuses for decades. His 1999 exhortation of Holy War between Muslims and Jews was part of a larger pattern of words and deeds in which he sought to radicalize young Americans against the Jewish people. Bazians history  and the top place he holds in the ongoing turmoil  also reveal the key role hes long planned for Americas institutions of higher learning to play in mainstreaming and spreading ideas that many people consider hateful.

Hatem Bazian at a May 7 rally at UC Berkeley ...

A Palestinian immigrant, Bazian was born in the West Bank town of Nablus and attended high school in Jordan. He graduated from San Francisco State University and then moved to Berkeley, where he chairs the Islamophobia Research and Documentation Project.

Upon arriving at Berkeley in 1993, Bazian helped start the first college chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine  whose national organization says it supports more than 350 Palestinian solidarity organizations. In 2006, he co-founded its umbrella organization, American Muslims for Palestine. We support campus activism through Students for Justice in Palestine, AMP states on its website.

AMP is directly involved in the campus chaos, Schanzer said, by helping coordinate protests at colleges where its SJP outposts operate. AMP provides funding and guidance for the chapters for, among other things, holding anti-Israel teach-ins, erecting pro-Palestinian tables, crafting media talking points, and creating flyers and placards for the campus encampments and occupations that demonize Israel and sanitize Hamas atrocities as resistance.

... and at the University of San Francisco camp later last month.

As AMPs chairman, Bazian has visited several encampments, including at the University of Pennsylvania, San Diego State University, UC-San Diego, University of San Francisco and UC-Berkeley, where his acolytes have set up a Gaza Solidarity Camp. RCIs review of videos posted on social media of his encampment talks reveals hes instructed students not to be nice while protesting, because he said being polite wont get the attention of college administrators or President Biden, whom he demands divest from Israel and pressure Israel to withdraw from Gaza.

Meanwhile, his organization, which employs a full-time campus outreach coordinator, is under both federal and state investigation for ties to Hamas, and is also a defendant in a major new lawsuit brought by survivors of the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack.

Bazian tweet of April 20.

A Richardson, Texas-based lawyer representing Bazian and AMP did not reply to requests for comment. After also reaching out to Bazian directly, RCIs messages went unanswered. Bazian has a history of seeming to endorse, or even call for, violence, and then denying doing so. In 2004, while Hamas was leading a deadly resistance, or intifada, in Israel that included suicide bombers, Bazian reportedly called for an intifada inside America while addressing a largely Muslim crowd at an anti-Iraq war rally.

Are you angry? Are you angry?! Well, weve been watching intifada in Palestine, Bazian shouted. How come we dont have an intifada in this country?

Theyre going to say [Im] some Palestinian being radical  well, you havent seen radicalism yet, he added. Its about time we have an intifada in this country!

He later claimed his remarks were meant to incite only a political intifada inside this country, not violent revolt. Last month, while rallying protestors at a University of San Francisco encampment, Bazian again called for intifada, asking students, Can you all say intifada?

Intifada! protesters shouted back.

Speaking to students gathered outside tents at the same USF rally, Bazian encouraged the forceful taking and holding of campus buildings as protesters did at Columbia University before New York police stormed the facility and removed them. Recruiting new protesters, he bellowed, Let me say we welcome agitators for justice. We celebrate courage and continue to make changes because a free Palestine is a reality that is waiting to be actualized. Free Palestine! Dont let anyone stop you from making history!

Student protesters have echoed his rhetoric that Hamas has the right to resist Israel by resorting to violence.

Bazian tweet of April 8

On Oct. 7  the same day as the horrific attacks on Israel which included the murder of hundreds of innocent youths attending a music festival  the flagship Berkeley chapter of Students for Justice In Palestine released a statement with SJP chapters at dozens of other colleges pledging their unwavering support of the resistance in Gaza  We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Palestine. Bazians flagship group made it clear it was honoring our comrades in blood and arms fighting on the ground in Gaza  that is, Hamas  and warned that what is coming is greater. Victory or martyrdom.

Parroting Hamas rhetoric for annihilating Israel, they then pronounced: From River to Sea, glory to the Palestinian resistance and glory to our martyrs. Berkeleys SJP chapter later held a vigil for martyrs in Palestine killed during and after the bloody anti-Israel incursion.

According to an FBI memo, one of the founders of Hamas has stated, Hamas is a Palestinian Jihad movement that strives for the liberation of all Palestine, from the [Mediterranean] sea to the river [Jordan], from the north to the south, a goal that would erase Israel from the map.

An NPR report earlier this month on the meaning of intifada  an Arabic word that can mean to shake off or uprising  quoted people who say it is inextricably related to violence and those who say it is not.

Basil Rodriguez, whom NPR identified as a Palestinian American graduate student at Columbia, told the network: For me, it just speaks to liberation. To free Palestine from the [Israeli] apartheid regime, and the military occupation. For me it calls for freedom and for change.

Jon Schanzer, ex-Treasury counterterror official: When theyre calling for an intifada, theyre calling for a violent uprising.

Eliana Goldin, whom NPR identified as a Jewish undergraduate and leader of a pro-Israel group at Columbia, said The word intifada was only associated with death and terrorism and destruction. So intifada still feels just as charged as if someone were to say Holocaust. Or if someone were to mention any sort of catastrophe that happened against a people that you consider yourself a part of.

Schanzer, the former Treasury official, agreed. When theyre calling for an intifada, theyre calling for a violent uprising, he said. These are things we commonly associate with Hamas rhetoric.

The next day, Oct. 8, while pockets of Hamas terrorists inside Israels borders were still killing, raping, and kidnapping civilians, the National Students for Justice in Palestine, which is controlled by the AMP, distributed a Resistance Toolkit that celebrated Hamas war crimes as a historic win for the Palestinian resistance: Across land, air and sea, our people have broken down the artificial barriers separating Gaza from Israel.

Adopting Bazians language about actualiz[ing] the creation of a Palestinian state, the toolkit continued to exalt Hamas: Our people are actualizing revolution. Palestine will be liberated from the river to the sea. By our people, it meant our people back home in Gaza.

Then the toolkit rationalized Hamas brutal terrorist tactics, arguing there is no right way for Palestinians to fight. It added that the Israelis who were murdered were not civilians and that their death falls solely on the zionist entity.

The toolkit went on to praise the ingenuity of Hamas terrorists for capturing an Israeli bulldozer and using it to breach the illegitimate border fence and for neutraliz[ing] the barrier in hours.

This action of resistance shatters the illusion of Israel as an impenetrable, indestructible entity, the five-page document gushed while marveling at the large-scale battle marshaled by Hamas, which it noted was ongoing. The resistance fighters are still launching new attacks into [Israel].

Advocating further violence, the NSJP toolkit advised students that liberating Palestine requires confrontation by any means necessary  including armed struggle, not just slogans and rallies, which it asserted is legitimate. It provided templates of pro-Hamas graphics for student protesters to use for campus posters and other propaganda, including one depicting the Hamas terrorists paragliding into Israel to carry out their mass slaughter.

We will also be having a how to organize a protest, including roles, security, media training, and more, on the national call-in meeting on Oct. 9, it advised.

In a chilling closing remark, NSJP confirmed it wasnt just supporting from afar the Oct. 7 actions of Hamas  a specially designated terrorist organization  but was actually a part of its movement. We as Palestinian students in exile are PART of this movement, not [just] in solidarity with this movement, NSJP averred.

The groups toolkit spread through dorm rooms across the country thanks to social media, and soon anti-Israel protests broke out at major universities using the tactics and propaganda suggested by NSJP. For example:

The National Students for Justice in Palestine's "resistance toolkit" features graphic templates ready-made for campus anti-Israel protests, including this one echoing Hamas terrorists paragliding into Israel to carry out their slaughter. Protesters at Tufts University called the terrorists liberation fighters paragliding into occupied territory, noting that Hamas had shown the creativity necessary to take back stolen land.

The rabble at Columbia University blamed Israel for the terror attacks, justifying the murder of women and children as provoked by Israeli oppression. Demonstrators could be heard chanting support for their friends and brothers in Hamas, and actually called on the terrorists to attack Israel again. Never forget the 7th of October, some taunted Jewish students. That will happen  10,000 more times! The Anti-Defamation League, moreover, recorded explicit support for terrorism and violence at the Columbia encampment on April 17, when one protester declared: We are Hamas, while others chanted: Al-Qassam [the name of Hamas military wing] you make us proud, kill another [Israeli] soldier now!

At several other colleges, SJP-influenced protests featured chants such as Resistance is justified and From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, reflecting the same anti-Israel propaganda distributed by the Berkeley chapter of SJP in the immediate aftermath of Oct. 7.

Such militancy is the culmination of decades of grooming by Bazian. In a speech at the 2011 AMP conference in Chicago, he predicted college campuses would be ground zero in the battle for the Palestine movement. The university is going to be the frontline and the pro-Israelis know this, Bazian said. To that end, AMP expanded its operations on college campuses by founding the National Students for Justice in Palestine to better organize and fund chapters and recruit pro-Palestinian activists.

Some FBI veterans who have investigated the Hamas network of front groups in America say hard-core Muslim leaders like Bazian are brainwashing students into thinking they are part of a heroic struggle for freedom, but are merely co-opting them for their own anti-Jewish holy war.

Steven Stalinsky, Memri: When college students see that their marches and protests arent achieving their goals, they may consider their next steps  which will be influenced by the company they have been keeping.

Bazian and other Muslim organizers keep framing these campus protests as a human-rights struggle, when its clearly just another front in their religious war, said former special FBI counterterrorism agent John Guandolo. This isnt about freeing Gaza or protecting Palestinian civilians, he added. This is about Islam and their hatred of Jews and fulfilling their scriptural commands. This is jihad.

By hiding the religious element, he said, Bazian has managed to create an army of anti-Israel radicals at several hundred campuses across the country, many of whom are not even Muslim. He says they are being used as proxies in Hamas jihad, or holy war, against their Islamic enemy: the Jews. Bazian is a senior leader in the jihadi movement in America, Guandolo said. Hes not on campus for the Chick-fil-A.

A federal lawsuit recently filed by Oct. 7 families against AMP and NSJP alleges they are not innocent advocacy groups, but rather the propaganda arm of a terrorist organization operating in plain sight and provide ongoing, continuous, systematic and material support for Hamas. Acting as agents of Hamas in America, it claims, they are central command for the pro-Hamas campus protests and pose a dangerous threat to Jews in America.

It is illegal to provide material support to Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization that was founded in 1988 in the Gaza Strip to establish an Islamic Palestinian State that encompasses Israel, the West Bank and Gaza, according to the 51-page internal FBI memo. Its covenants call for jihad to achieve the goal of destroying the Jewish state, while asserting this armed struggle against Jews is the duty of every Muslim. The FBI memo, written in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, noted that the Hamas leadership has launched several bloody intifadas targeting the Jewish people and told Palestinians they can do whatever they want against the brothers of monkeys and pigs, a phrase borrowed from the Muslim holy book the Quran to describe Jews.

In a previous statement, Bazian dismissed the lawsuit as an Islamophobic text reeking in anti-Palestinian racism, while his attorney Christy Jump insisted, AMP operates fully within the laws of the United States.

However, state and federal investigators are looking into whether Bazians AMP has crossed the line between legal activism and material support for terrorism. Virginias attorney general is investigating allegations AMP may have used funds raised for impermissible purposes under state law, including benefiting or providing support to a terrorist organization, referring to Hamas. AMP has denied the allegations and called them defamatory.

AMPs troubles deepened last month when the House Oversight Committee launched a probe into AMP and its sister organization, the National Students for Justice in Palestine, over their allegedly substantial ties to Hamas. House investigators subpoenaed AMP for all documents and communications related to its funding of SJPs college hubs and its support for Hamas and the Oct. 7 massacre. AMP was told to comply with the order by June 12. Asked if the nonprofit group would cooperate, Jump did not respond.

The federal lawsuit alleges AMP and NSJP are radicalizing students by exploiting their passions for justice and human rights in the Middle East, while hiding from them their religious extremism and true motive of targeting Jews in general.

Through NSJP, AMP uses propaganda to intimidate, convince and recruit uninformed, misguided and impressionable college students to serve as foot soldiers for Hamas on campus and beyond, according to the court filing. Part of their goal, it alleges, is to establish an environment where violence against Jews could be construed as acceptable.

Others worry they are grooming junior terrorists and that their mass movement across campuses, which is becoming increasingly violent, could end in armed confrontation on U.S. soil.

When college students see that their marches and protests arent achieving their goals [of a ceasefire in Gaza and divestment from Israel], they may consider their next steps  which will be influenced by the company they have been keeping, warned Steven Stalinsky, executive director of the Middle East Media Research Institute in Washington, D.C.
Photos by Kenda Lenseigne

We first covered PTRs carbine way back in Issue 25, and since then the micro environment around it has changed  some good, some bad.

Theres more in the way of aftermarket support, but cheap Russian 7.6239 has gone away, subjected to sanctions in the wake of their invasion of Ukraine  which begs the question of whether the rifle makes sense anymore. With garbage-tier AKs now fetching the best part of a grand, we thought it was time to blow the dust off of PTRs baby and see what we could do with it.

Following the end of the Cold War, HK surveyed the landscape and concluded that impoverished countries shaking off the chains of communism might like a Western rifle chambered in the Soviet round, as a wholesale switch to NATO logistics might be a bit of a stretch.

By offering a way to tap into vast stockpiles of steel-cased x39, but with ergonomics vaguely designed around the human form, HK sought to tap a heretofore inaccessible market, with the added bonus of it being right on their doorstep. Like a lot of good ideas, things didnt actually work as intended, and the only sales of the HK32 carbine were a few thousand to Mexican police.

The idea nonetheless had merit, and was resurrected by PTR, which offers three versions of the gun. A 16-inch barreled carbine is the most accessible and useful right off the shelf, but the 12.5- and 5-inch pistols, while pretty much useless in their Title 1 forms, make for very appealing SBR projects. We picked the middle child of the family for this build  but if we were to do it over, we might make a different choice.

TO THE BATCAVE

Turning the 12.5-inch barreled PTR 32K into something a man might carry, unfortunately involves the dead hand of the state. Once we had an approved Form 1 in our possession, it was time to go forth and source goodies to complete the build  though if were honest with ourselves, does one ever truly complete something like this? There are always new doodads to research, covet, purchase, and install, so we should probably look at it as a work in progress, and its current state as a snapshot in an album, rather than as its culmination.

The PTR 32 is built on a G3/HK91 receiver, which has both advantages and drawbacks.

Its overbuilt for the 7.6239, and heavier than it needs to be in comparison with the smaller-statured HK33 and 93, which are designed around the 5.56 NATO cartridge.

The PTR 32 disassembles like every other model in the roller-delayed catalog. The AC Unity magazine offers metal reinforcement where it matters and a clear window to check ammo levels.

Theres added bulk and weight in the trunnion area, the magazine well is 308-sized, and the bolt carrier is about 2 ounces heavier than required to handle the commie round. Its a lardbeast, but due to being oversized, the carrier stroke is long, soaking up recoil over a longer timeframe and making for a very soft-shooting rifle  theres almost no chance of it ever wearing out, beating itself to death, or causing flinch issues in the user.

As our test subject identified as a rifle, but was on paper a pistol, the first order of business was to source a stock. Our choices were fairly wide by roller locked standards  anything that would fit a G3 could bolt up to the PTR 32  but after rejecting the standard fixed stock (boring) and the classic HK collapsible option (overly complicated meat tenderizer), we almost settled on a polymer, side folding stock from Choate, having used it before on a different build.

Instead, we wound up with a stock adapter from Dan Haga at Haga Defense, which offers an elegant solution to add the MBT stock from B&T. One of the best bits of the Remington ACR before its untimely slide into oblivion was its stock that offered adjustments for length of pull and cheek riser height, as well as folding to reduce overall length. The MBT stock takes design cues from this, and despite being priced at B&T levels, is a great way add functionality to a carbine build  perfect for storing in the cramped confines of your G5.

Although the aluminum rail system on our stock gun was svelte and well-sculpted, we couldnt leave well enough alone and decided to dip into the B&T catalog once more, spurred by an irrational desire to route the cable from our Scout Lights tape switch out of the way and inside the handguard. On measuring the male end, we noticed that by shaving down the sides of the plug, itd fit between the cocking tube and barrel, but there was no way it was ever going to squeeze through an M-LOK slot.

Fortunately, the B&T handguard has larger vent holes and comes with detachable Pic rails, so it met our somewhat dubious criteria and allowed the pressure switch cable to tuck neatly out of the way.

After the smallest amount of motherf@ckering caused by the lack of a third hand, we managed to thread the plug through various holes while at the same time sliding the handguard into place. A discretely placed, small zip tie held the cable away from the barrel, and even repeated mag dumps caused no adverse effects. Success!

Haga Designs adapter allows the B&T stock to fit and fold. The longer-than-normal receiver means youre probably going to run it on its shortest setting.

As were not sh*t-spattered heathens, wallowing in our own ignorance and filth, the original muzzle device had to go, replaced by a direct-thread 30-cal suppressor from Maxim Defense. Their micro can is a collaboration with CGS Suppressors and is 3D printed from 718 Inconel specifically for short barrel use and features the can within a can design that has become prevalent in low back-pressure designs.

Adding just 4.6 inches to the overall length, the Micro goes some way to offset the length of the PTR 32s receiver, which, for comparison purposes, is 2 inches longer than an AK, trunnion to endcap. The downside is its weight, which, at 16 ounces, is firmly in the Ashley Graham, rather than Kate Moss camp.

HK-pattern guns are notorious for their long, spongy, and heavy trigger pulls, but fortunately one of our neighbors in Arizona has an American solution to a Teutonic problem. Timney offers a drop-in trigger pack that uses the host guns ejector lever, allowing it to be used in everything from the MP5 to the G3  just pop out the old pack, press out a pin, swap in the ejector (and its spring), and youre off to the races. Our new trigger is a two-stage design that breaks at 4 pounds, with a crisp break and short reset.

The combo of SIG optics and Haga/B&T stock brings a 1960s design into the 21st century.

The G3 from which the PTR 32 was spawned was a product of post-WWII small arms design, where optics were found only on sniper rifles. As a result, the official, factory means of mounting glass involved a cludgy saddle mount, which had the unfortunate tendency to deform the receiver if the user tightened its screws too much. Of course, your typical infantryman would never do this, so incidences of buggered-up guns and optics never occurred 

Which is not to say the stock iron sights are bad  far from it, theyre some of the best battle sights ever issued  but weve got so many great options in the world of optics that just a few years ago wouldve been priced out of the reach of most consumers.

Thankfully, PTR recognizes this and endows their guns with a welded 1913 rail, so we took advantage of it. Given the limitations placed on us by the 7.6239 cartridge, we envisioned this as a 0 to 300 yards carbine, so chose a sighting system in keeping with it, settling on the SIG Romeo4T Pro and Juliet 3 Micro magnifier.

The 4T Pro offers several reticles in addition to your basic bitch red dot, the most versatile of which for our purposes is a central 2 MOA dot with three finer, cascading dots below it, giving holdovers for distance. When used in conjunction with the magnifier, it allowed us to deliver hits on steel further than we anticipated.

ROUNDS DOWNRANGE

These days, dipping into our stash of steel-cased x39 brings on a general sense of ennui and longing for times past when things seemed simpler, a case of Tula could be had for a Benjamin, and Russia was just a gas station with nukes that would occasionally murder its political opponents using chemical weapons.

Now that its fully expressed its imperialist and genocidal tendencies, where are we going to get cheap blasting fodder for our AKs so that we can train on the favored firearm of lunch room revolutionaries? Such are the problems we face 

The Julite 3 magnifier works well in this application, but factory rearsight means eye relief is only just sufficient. It could use another half inch, but couldnt we all?



Having stroked the editorial beard, contemplated problems for which we had no answer and taken ourselves way too seriously, it was time to bomb up a few mags and let er rip, tater chip. Ah, the joy of watching cases fly over the berm and into the next bay.

True to its DNA, the PTR 32s ejection pattern is, erm, vigorous, but the combination of mass, roller-delayed operating system, and suppressor meant it was very controllable. Shot on paper at 100 yards, the not-so-little carbine could be counted on to turn in 2 MOA groups with various flavors of 123-grain steel-cased Eastern European ammo, which surprised us with its consistency.

Roller-delayed guns, by their nature, are well suited to suppressor use, as theres no gas system to fiddle with or dump propellant back into the action.

Theres a chance you may have to change to a different locking piece with a lower angled shoulder, depending on how your gun is set up, but we got lucky out of the gate. There was a small puff of gas from the ejection port on every shot, but nowhere near the amount youd find from an AR under the same conditions, and the action remained relatively clean, even after 300 rounds.

Sprucing it up consisted of a quick spritz of SC14 gun cleaner and a wipe down with a paper towel  no ultrasonic tank or painstaking chipping away at carbon buildup required.

Moving out to field conditions, its SIG optics package was usable out to 650 yards, but at that distance, well admit we were lobbing them in  450 yards was about the maximum range we could engage IPSC silhouettes with a 75-percent probability of landing a hit, and at that yardage we were using the last dot in the reticle.

The rifle was shot from a variety of positions and fed from both the recommended P Mags and some AC Unity magazines, made in Bosnia. Despite monopoding the gun, both fed flawlessly, with the AC Unity magazines offering the additional features of a clear window to check ammo levels, steel reinforcing, and a last round hold open follower.

Although this allows the bolt to run forward when the empty mag is removed, it at least gives you a clue when its time to get more bullets into the gun.

All told, this was one of the most fun projects of 2024 so far. If we were do things differently, the 8.5-inch barreled version might be our pick for a jumping-off point, as it would still offer decent velocities while cutting down the OAL.

As it stands, the 12.5 would make a good choice for someone who regularly works in and around vehicles, as its weight would not be as much of a burden, and the 7.62 commie round performs way better against sheet metal than anything in 5.56.

PTR Industries PTR32K

Caliber: 7.6239

Capacity: 30 rounds

Barrel Length: 12.5 inches

Overall Length: 36.5 inches

Weight: 11.5 pounds, all up

MSRP: $1,850

As Outfitted:

Suppressor  Maxim CGS Micro

WML  SureFire Scout

Buttstock  B&T MBT with Haga Designs Adapter

Sights  SIG Romeo 4T Pro, Juliette 3 Magnifier

Magazines  Magpul, AC Unity

Trigger  Timney
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'When you look at reviving private sector capex, I don't think there's a better story than steel.'

Photograph: Andrew Yates/Reuters

Tata Steel has a lot on its plate -- restructuring the business in the United Kingdom, expanding capacity back home, and keeping an eye on the balance sheet.

"On a year-on-year basis, we expect Ebitda per tonne in India to be reasonably flat but the volumes higher," Tata Steel Managing Director and CEO T V Narendran tells Ishita Ayan Dutt/Business Standard in a video interview.

Steel spot spreads have improved and the blast furnace relining in The Netherlands, which was dragging the performance, is complete. Do you expect a better Q1?

The blast furnace in The Netherlands went on stream only in the first week of February. So we didn't have the full quarter of supplies.

To that extent The Netherlands Q1 will be better than Q4.

The UK will not be because it had a one-off benefit of about 50 million, which will not be there.

In India, we expect Ebitda (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) per tonne to be a little lower though the spreads have improved a bit because it's a quarter where we have a lot of shutdowns.

So the volumes in Q1 will be less and hence the fixed cost gets distributed over a smaller volume.

On a year-on-year basis, we expect Ebitda per tonne in India to be reasonably flat but the volumes higher. We will have 1.4 million tonnes net addition.

In The Netherlands, Ebitda should be much better.

In the UK, it will be negative but less than last year because the second half of the year will be Ebitda neutral or Ebitda positive. So overall, for Tata Steel, it will be better than last year.

Photograph: Phil Noble/Reuters

What is the status of the grant-funding agreement with the UK government?

There were many finer points which were being worked out and now it is concluded.

It's gone to the government, which will run through the process to approve it. We are in the final stages of it.

With the UK headed for general elections, is there any risk to the agreement?

We don't see that as a derailing factor. The closure of the heavy end is irrespective of who is in power simply because the assets have become end-of-life.

You are investing 750 million in the UK project over and above the restructuring cost. Will that impact expansion plans in India?

The money needs to be spent over three-four years. So we don't expect that to derail growth plans in India.

We must not forget that a lot of the support has been given to Europe when Tata Steel was much smaller.

When we acquired Corus, we were 4 million tonnes (mt).

Now we are 20 mt and going to 25 mt. So the India business, which generates all the cash, is getting bigger. And the UK, which was in some sense, drawing in the cash was 10 mt and is now 3 mt. So supporting the UK on a lower magnitude is easier than in the past.



IMAGE: T V Narendran.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Tata Group

So where do we see Tata Steel in terms of capacity in the next two to three years?

The Kalinganagar unit will have fully expanded and the Ludhiana plant will be ready.

Bhushan Steel will go from 5 mt to 7 mt, Kalinganagar from 8 mt to 13 mt, and Neelachal from 1 mt to 5 mt. And if we find the operating model working in Ludhiana, we can quickly set up another two-three electric arc furnaces.

So we may not complete all the expansion of 40 mt by 2030, but we will be well on our way at all the sites.

Will imports into India weigh on expansion plans?

Not yet, but if it sustains for another six months or so, it will hurt the domestic industry.

When you look at reviving private sector capex, I don't think there's a better story than steel. Each is spending Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 10,000 crore to Rs 15,000 crore (Rs 100 billion to Rs 150 billion) a year to expand.

What is your capex for FY25?

About Rs 17,000 crore (Rs 170 billion), of which around 75 per cent will be in India.

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com
An unusual mid-June cold snap set records in central North Dakota and brought frost to areas in the western part of the state.

The daytime temperature in Minot on Tuesday reached only 55 degrees -- 23 degrees below normal, and two degrees below the city's previous June 18 record low daily maximum temperature of 57 degrees, set in 1939, according to the National Weather Service.

Jamestown's Tuesday high temp reached only 58 degrees. That was 19 degrees below normal, and it tied the city's June 18 record set more than a century ago in 1915.

Williston also unofficially broke its record low daily maximum, with a high of only 51 degrees, eclipsing the previous record of 55 degrees that also was set in 1915. The readings were taken from different airports in the city, making the comparison unofficial.

The high temp in Bismarck on Tuesday reached only 58 degrees, 21 degrees below normal and just 1 degree warmer than the city's June 18 record low daily maximum set in 1915.

A cold front that swept into the region from the Pacific Northwest brought unseasonably cold air from the north down to several states, and more than a foot of snow to the higher elevations of Montana. The weather service issued a frost advisory for much of western and south central North Dakota late Tuesday into early Wednesday.

"We were cloudy all day (Tuesday) and the temperature did not climb," said Jeff Schild, a meteorologist at the weather service office in Bismarck. "Then it cleared out overnight ... (and) that is conducive to temperatures dropping, and frost developing."

The overnight temp in Bismarck dropped to 43 degrees -- 11 degrees below normal but still well above the freezing mark. Areas farther west saw much colder lows, according to weather service data: Hazen and Tioga (39 degrees), Dickinson and Mott (38), Glen Ullin (37), Bowman (36), Hettinger (34) and Scranton (31).

"There were quite a few readings in the western part of the state dipping into the mid-30s, and low-lying areas got even colder and experienced frost," Schild said.

Western and central North Dakota typically see the last spring freeze of the year in mid-May. To have one a month later than that -- just a day before the official start of summer -- "has happened, but it's not often," Schild said.

The cold snap is likely to be sandwiched by stormy weather. Thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday dropped heavy rain across western and central North Dakota, and a return to turbulent weather is forecast for late in the week -- though Schild said the storms are not expected to be as severe as early in the week.

Early week rainfall totals posted by the weather service include 1.06 inches in north Bismarck; 1.9 inches in Menoken; 2 inches in Lincoln, Strasburg and Ashley; 3.25 inches in Selfridge; and 3.5 inches in Jamestown.

"We see showers and thunderstorm chances returning -- particularly for our area as we get into late Thursday continuing through Friday, with low chances lingering through Saturday," Schild said. "It will be accompanied by a gradual warming trend."

The forecast for the Bismarck-Mandan area calls for highs in the upper 70s on Saturday, the lower 80s on Sunday with sunny skies, and the lower 90s on Monday.
Three industry bodies suggested changes in India's tax regime in their pre-Budget discussions with Revenue Secretary Sanjay Malhotra in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The bodies  Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI)  held separate meetings with Malhotra during the day and put across their suggestions for the upcoming Budget.

During their presentation, CII asked for a "marginal relief" in income tax for taxable income up to Rs 20 lakh.

It also suggested steps like reduction of excise duties on petrol and diesel.

"To boost consumption demand in the short term, steps such as providing a marginal relief in income tax at the lower end of the spectrum with taxable income upto Rs 20 lakhs; reduction in excise duties on Petrol and Diesel: upward revision of minimum wages of MNREGA; raising DBT amount under PM Kisan were suggested by CII," said Sanjiv Puri, president of CII.

The PHDCCI said the slab of 30 per cent income tax should be raised to income of Rs 40 lakh and above.

Below this, the body said, the tax rate should be kept at 20-25 per cent.

"We have suggested to the revenue secretary to take the slab of 30 per cent beyond Rs 40 lakh income so that at least the middle class is spared from this tax bracket, and is taxed at the rate of 20-25 per cent below Rs 40 lakh," Mukul Bagla, chair of Direct Taxes Committee at PHDCCI told reporters after the meeting.

Currently, under the new tax regime, people with income above Rs 15 lakh are liable to pay a tax of 30 per cent.

In the old regime, this was applicable for those above the income of Rs 10 lakh.

Hemant Jain, senior Vice President at PHDCCI, said that they have also asked for exemptions to be increased.

FICCI, on the other hand, did not ask for any exemptions and concessions but suggested simplification of taxation in India.

"The entire thrust is on simplification," said Dinesh Kanabar, mentor at FICCI Tax Committee, highlighting that currently there are multiple rates of withholding taxes and high tax is collected at source.

He also said that there were discussions on dispute resolution and that they had suggested simplification of the capital gains tax structure in India.

In its presentation, CII also called the current capital gains taxation structure in India "complex".

It suggested that the holding period for turning long-term for financial assets be kept at 12 months and for other assets at 36 months.

CII further suggested that long-term capital gains tax rate be fixed at 10 per cent for financial assets and 20 per cent for assets like immovable property.

For short-term, it suggested that financial assets be taxed at 15 per cent and other assets at the applicable rates.

The body also suggested that corporate tax rates be maintained at the current levels to provide "tax certainty".

For indirect taxes, CII recommended decriminalisation of some offenses under GST and that it should be brought under a three-tax structure.

"The 12 per cent slab could be merged with the 18 per cent slab, to be around 14 or 15 per cent," it said.

"A negative list of areas may be provided, which may specify cases such as interpretational issues, clerical errors, etc. where prosecution provisions should not be made applicable," it added.

Pranav Satya, chair of the FICCI Tax Committee, said that the body had earlier put forth its suggestion on GST.

"As a part of the FICCI agenda, we have talked about initialisation of GST 2.0 building on the success of GST implementation, which has achieved both its objectives of removing barriers to trade as well as of a greater formalisation of the economy," Satya said.

PHDCCI said they have also asked for introduction of faceless assessment in indirect taxation.

"We also suggested that on the lines of income tax, we should be given a faceless assessment scheme (for indirect tax) also," said Ashok Kumar Batra, chair of the Indirect Taxes Committee at PHDCCI.

"In case it is not possible for you to introduce faceless assessment, at least virtual hearings should be made mandatory wherever they are being requested for," Batra told the revenue secretary.

Key demands

CII

Marginal relief in income tax (I-T) for income up to Rs 20 lakh

Three-tax structure for GST

Holding period for financial assets to be long-term at 12 months, others at 36 months

PHDCCI

Raise 30% I-T slab to Rs 40 lakh and above

Below this, keep tax rate at 20-25%

Introduce faceless assessment in indirect taxation

Ficci
'The longevity of the government is a doubt for me because when the going gets tough, there could a be a point in time where there might be pressure, from within the party or from the allies.'

IMAGE: President Droupadi Murmu exchanges greetings with Narendra D Modi after he was sworn in as prime minister, June 9, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Political economist Parakala Prabhakar was one of the few commentators in India who had predicted before the elections that the Bharatiya Janata Party would not get more than 240 seats! And he was bang on!

In his interview to Rediff.com, Prabhakar -- who is married to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman -- had said, "Modi fatigue has set in, and the BJP is in for huge punishment by the electorate."

"If it gets to his nerves every day when he has to placate his allies, he might take a very far reaching significant decision and dissolve the House. He will then go to the people and say, 'I wanted to implement many things but could not because my allies were not cooperating. So, I want a clear mandate'," Prabhakar tells Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier in the first of a two-part interview:

After the election results were out, Narendra Modi said it was a historic verdict. You remarked that it was a slap on his face.

Some said he doesn't have the mandate of the people or moral authority to rule India again.

As far as moral authority is concerned, it is very badly reduced.

Modi and his supporters say that it is a historic verdict, and it is Modi 3.0. But it is nothing but gaslighting.

I would have rated the BJP and Narendra Modi higher if they had accepted the verdict of the people, tried to understand the message of the people, and accommodated the coalition partners in a better way.

But the very fact that they try to show that they are not defeated, and they have come back as Modi 3.0 shows their inferiority complex.

They want to pretend that they are victorious, but they are defeated.

The Congress compares the situation with what Rajiv Gandhi did in 1989. Though the Congress was the single largest party, he refused to stake a claim to form the government as his party was reduced to 197 from the 404 seats he had won in 1984.

If you read the message that is there in the results, Modi should have desisted from staking a claim (to form a government).

Instead, they have now started talking about NDA. In 2014, it was an NDA government. In 2019 also, it was an NDA government.

But it was always touted as the Modi Sarkar and not even a BJP government.

And the entire election pitch was of Modi ki guarantee. When Modi ki guarantee fetched you only 240, what moral claim you have to say that it was a historic victory, huge victory, etc?

The results show that the Modi ki guarantee is rejected.

Between the leadership of Modi and the people of India, the chemistry is gone.

There is no more the Modi magic they spoke about.

In fact, on the contrary, it is Modi fatigue.

Yes, you said there was Modi fatigue when we spoke before the elections...

Now you saw in the election results that Modi fatigue has really set in..

IMAGE: Modi during an election roadshow in Kolkata, May 28, 2024. Photograph: Sahiba Chawdhary/Reuters

There is a vast difference between what he said he would get, and what he got finally...

It is like this. A strong person accepts the vulnerabilities and limitations. On the other hand, a weak person tries to pretend that there are no limitations and there are no vulnerabilities.

That's exactly what is happening now.

The writing on the wall is so clear that the BJP is reduced from 303 to 240.

It is just luck that they got some seats in Andhra Pradesh which was not because of their strength. It was because of (Chandrababu) Naidu.

In fact, Naidu could win the elections not because of the BJP but in spite of the BJP.

In Odidha, they could make some gains because of the anti-incumbency, after long years of Naveen Patnaik's rule.

The BJP picked up some seats this way in these two states.

But in UP which is their actual battleground, they were completely mauled.

Would you say the biggest shock in this election came from UP?

That's right.

By trying to pretend that everything is like 2014 or 2019, if they think they are fooling the people, they are actually fooling themselves.

IMAGE: Modi meets with BJP and NDA leaders before they were sworn in as ministers, June 9, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Commentators say Modi is not accustomed to coalition politics, and from the time he was Gujarat chief minister and even as prime minister for ten years, he ran the governments the way he wanted.

How do you expect him to perform as the prime minister of a coalition government?

What is Narendra Modi up against now? He is now dependant on his allies, especially the two major allies, the TDP and the JD-U.

The leaders of these two political parties are very experienced. They have seen a lot of ups and downs in politics. They fell many times and got up many times.

They are skilled in taking everybody together, they are experts in making deals, and persuading others.

These are precisely the skills Narendra Modi lacks.

The governments he ran both in Gandhinagar as well as in Delhi, leave alone coalition governments, they were not even his party governments; he ran his own governments.

And to expect Narendra Modi to suddenly develop skills like deal making, consensus building or consulting people, taking suggestions from the allies, is too much.

I don't think he has the temperament or the skills to do so.

This is going to be a very huge obstacle in the functioning of this government.

There are two things. One: as things stand today, it will be very difficult for the Narendra Modi government to pass the floor test.

I am not saying they won't be able to. I am saying, it is going to be very difficult.

IMAGE: Modi with Andhra Pradesh Governor and retired Supreme Court judge Abdul Nazeer, newly sworn-in Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu during the oath-taking ceremony in Vijayawada, June 12, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Why do you say so?

See, they don't have a single ally in the NDA which is an ideological ally of the BJP. They are all contextual allies. They are transactional allies.

You can go to the extent of saying, some of them are just opportunistic allies.

So, the alliance doesn't depend on any ideological bonding.

If the BJP wants to go forward with CAA or NRC, what would be the reaction from the JD-U and TDP?

Suppose they want to go ahead with Gyanvapi and Mathura and other temples, what will be the reaction?

And the JD-U wants caste census. Will Narendra Modi and the BJP be able to ready to accommodate that?

Let's come to state specific demands, like Andhra Pradesh would like to have special category status.

They want a metro granted for Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. They want a Visakhapatnam railway zone.

They want funds for Amaravati, the capital and Polavaram.

There are many similar demands in Bihar also.

And these are the actual bones of contention.

These are in addition to the political demands like portfolios, number of ministries, number of governors, chairmanship, directorship, etc.

Demands for such positions will be continuous and unending.

IMAGE: Parakala Prabhakar IMAGE: Parakala Prabhakar

At present, the BJP has kept all the important ministries...

Yes. That also might have caused some kind of heartburn. See, these are experienced leaders, they won't say anything immediately.

The very fact that they were not treated properly will be there in some corner of their mind.

When these feelings pile up, the outburst and backlash will be very severe at one point of time.

That's the reason why I find that passing the floor test for the Modi government is going to be difficult.

They have to summon all their resources in terms of political skills. It will be a huge challenge.

The longevity of the government is a doubt for me because when the going gets tough, there could a be a point in time where there might be pressure, from within the party or from the allies.

So, instead of sacrificing the government for just one or two individuals, the party may ask them to gracefully leave so that they can form another government where allies are taken care of.

I could see another possibility. If at all Mr Modi continues, and if it gets to his nerves every day when he has to placate his allies, he might take a very far reaching significant decision and dissolve the House.

He will then go to the people and say, 'I wanted to implement many things but could not because my allies were not cooperating. So, I want a clear mandate'. He might do that also.

Do you think this is where Narendra Modi differs from Atal Bihari Vajpayee?

Yes. Suddenly, you cannot expect Narendra Modi to transform himself as Vajpayee. It's a tall order. It's very unlikely.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Amid a raging row over the medical entrance exam NEET, the Union education ministry on Wednesday ordered the cancellation of the UGC-NET following inputs that the exam's integrity may have been compromised, and handed over the matter to the CBI for an investigation.

Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: PTI Photo

The ministry also sought a report from the Bihar Police's Economic Offences Unit regarding alleged irregularities in the conduct of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (UG) 2024 in Patna and said further action would be taken based on the report.

"The UGC received certain inputs from the National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Ministry of Home Affairs on the Examination. These inputs prima facie indicate that the integrity of the aforesaid examination may have been compromised," the ministry of education said.

"To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, it has been decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 examination be cancelled.

"A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately. Simultaneously, the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for thorough investigation in the matter," the ministry added.

In a shift from earlier practice, the National Eligibility Test (NET) was conducted in pen-and-paper mode this time on a single day -- June 18 -- with a record 11 lakh students registering for the exam.

UGC-NET is a test to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for the award of junior research fellowship, for appointment as assistant professors and admission to PhD in Indian universities and colleges.

The decision by the ministry comes amid a massive row on the medical entrance exam NEET over alleged irregularities, with the issue now before the Supreme Court.

There have been allegations of question paper leaks in states like Bihar and other irregularities in the prestigious exam. The allegations have led to protests in several cities and the filing of petitions in several high courts as well as the Supreme Court.

"Regarding certain irregularities alleged in the conduct of the examination in Patna, a detailed report has been sought from the Economic Offences Unit, Bihar Police. The government will take further action on receipt of this report," a senior official of the ministry said.

"The government is committed to ensuring the sanctity of examinations and protect the interest of students. It is reiterated that any individual or organisation found involved in this matter will face the strictest action," the official added.

Soon after the cancellation of UGC-NET, the Congress dubbed the Modi government as "paper leak government" and asked whether the education minister would take responsibility now.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also attacked the government over the alleged irregularities in the medical entrance exam NEET, and asked when will Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold "NEET pareeksha pe charcha".

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra slammed the government after the Education Ministry ordered the cancellation of UGC-NET and asked for accountability to be fixed.

In a post in Hindi on X, Kharge said, "Narendra Modi ji, you discuss exams a lot, but when will you hold 'NEET pareeksha pe charcha'. Cancellation of UGC-NET exam is a victory of the passion of lakhs of students," he said

"This is the defeat of Modi government's arrogance due to which they made a despicable attempt to trample the future of our youth," he added.

Kharge said the Union education minister first says that no paper was leaked in NEET, but when arrests of education mafia were made in Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana, then the minister "accepts that some scam" has happened.

"When will NEET exam be cancelled?" he asked.

"Modi ji, take responsibility to stop your government's rigging and paper leak in NEET exam too," Kharge said.

The Congress alleged that the Modi government is playing with the future of the youth.

"Yesterday UGC-NET exam was conducted in various cities of the country. Today the exam was cancelled on suspicion of paper leak. First NEET paper was leaked and now UGC-NET paper. The Modi government has become a 'paper leak government'," the party said on X.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi also alleged that the BJP government's "corruption and laxity" is harmful for the youth.

"After the news of scam in NEET exam, now the NET exam held on 18th June has also been cancelled due to the fear of irregularities. Will accountability be fixed now? Will the Education Minister take responsibility for this laxity?" Vadra asked in a post in Hindi.
Police have submitted their final report to the Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) in Pune detailing all evidence against a 17-year-old minor allegedly involved in the Porsche accident in Pune's Kalyani Nagar last month, an official has said.

IMAGE: The Porsche car that hit a motorcycle at Kalyani Nagar in Pune, May 19, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

The teen, who the police claim was drunk and driving the luxury car when it hit a two-wheeler in the early hours of May 19 killing two techies, including a woman, is lodged at an observation home in Pune.

The police had filed a plea to allow them to treat the juvenile as an adult for the purpose of trial in the case. To support their case, the police have now submitted relevant evidence to the JJB, said the officer on Tuesday.

"We have submitted all evidence to the JJB proving that he was behind the wheel of the Porsche car, starting from his house on the evening of May 19 until the accident occurred," he said.

"The report includes corroborative statements from eyewitnesses who saw him driving the car, CCTV footage recovered during the investigation, and evidence of him consuming alcohol at Cosie Restaurant and Blak Club. In summary, we have provided a comprehensive final report demonstrating that the juvenile, in an inebriated condition, was driving the car and caused the death of two riders," he informed.

The crime branch officer said the report supports their plea to treat the juvenile as an adult for the trial.

Meanwhile, investigation has revealed that the juvenile's blood samples, which were swapped with those of his mother, were disposed of as bio-medical waste at Sassoon General Hospital, he said.

The minor boy's mother and father, along with two doctors -- Dr Ajay Taware and Dr Shrihari Halnor -- and a hospital employee, Atul Ghatkamble, are currently in jail for their alleged involvement in the blood sample swapping case.

Police have also arrested two individuals who acted as intermediaries between the doctors and the juvenile's father, a prominent builder, to facilitate financial transactions for the blood samples swap.
Former US House Speaker Nancy Peolsi, who is part of a US bipartisan delegation which met with the Dalai Lama on Wednesday, launched a broadside against Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating that while the legacy of the Tibetan spiritual leader will live forever, Xi will be gone in a few years.

IMAGE: A US Congressional delegation including Nancy Pelosi meets the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala, June 19, 2024. Photograph: Leslie Shedd/US House Foreign Affairs Committee/X

Pelosi, who is on a two-day visit to India, said, "No one will give credit" to Xi for anything.

"His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the president of China, you'll be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything," said the former US House speaker.

Pelosi said that the Dalai Lama would not approve of her comment against the Chinese. "When I criticise the Chinese government, he says let's pray for Nancy to rid her of her negative attitudes," Pelosi said during the public felicitation programme at the Tsuglagkhang complex in Dharamshala.

The bipartisan Congressional delegation arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by officials of the Central Tibetan Administration at Himachal Pradesh's Kangra airport the same day.

Last week, the US Congress passed a bill urging Beijing to re-engage with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders to peacefully resolve their dispute over the status and governance of Tibet.

The US House of Representatives passed the bill 'Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act', also known as the 'Resolve Tibet Act', and it now heads to President Joe Biden for a signature to become law, Radio Free Asia reported.

"You heard our colleagues talk about this legislation that was passed last week. We had been fighting this for a long time and in the spirituality of His Holiness, with manoeuvring inside the Congress, we made progress. But it's different now with the passage of this bill (Resolve Tibet Act) because this bill is a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet," Pelosi said.

Pelosi further recalled the visit of the Chinese president to Washington, DC, where she told him that the US is "objecting" to what China is doing to the culture of Tibet.

In response, Xi said, "You know what you're talking about, you should go there and see for yourself all the improvements that China is making in Tibet," Pelosi recalled.

"They are trying to erase the culture by reducing the use of the language. They are trying something that we cannot let them get away with. I'll be gracious to the Chinese people, I don't know that they're up to this, but we do know that the Chinese government is, and we do know that they must get the message. This legislation sends the message, the House and the Senate and soon to be signed by Joe Biden, the president of the United States..." the former US House speaker added.

US Representative Congressman Gregory Meeks, who is heading the American delegation to India, too gave a strong response to Beijing's criticism of their visit, and said that the US is going to stand for what is right.

"China can express unhappiness if it wants. We are going to stand for what is right. What is right is to make sure that Tibetans have freedom. They are able to return to their native land and they are able to keep their culture & history...That's what is important..." he said.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration said, "No one can really make China happy."

"The meeting went on for about an hour. His Holiness (Dalai Lama) speaks about the larger interest of the society... He appreciated the US Congress people for passing the legislation," Penpa Tsering said about the American delegations visit to Dharamshala.

He further said, "Who can make China happy? They have to look at the reality and the situation and understand it from a better perspective..."

The US legislation notably rejects Beijing's stance that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times and urges China to "cease its propagation of disinformation about the history of Tibet, the Tibetan people, and Tibetan institutions, including that of the Dalai Lama."

It also urged China to begin talks with the Dalai Lama, who is the spiritual leader of Tibet, and other Tibetan leaders about how Tibet is governed. No formal talks between the two sides have taken place since 2010.

Meanwhile, China said on Tuesday that Beijing is "gravely concerned" over the visit of the US delegation to Dharamshala.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, addressing a regular press conference on Tuesday, asked the US to fully recognise the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai Group and to "stop sending the wrong signal to the world."
Delhi Water Minister Atishi on Wednesday said that she has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the water crisis in the national capital and threatened to go on an indefinite hunger strike from June 21 if the issue is not resolved within a couple of days.

IMAGE: Delhi PWD minister Atishi addresses a press conference on the water crisis, at Media Centre, in New Delhi. Photograph: Jitender Gupta/ANI Photo

The Bharatiya Janata Party slammed Atishi, with its Delhi unit president Virendra Sachdeva accusing her of indulging in "theatrics" to distract attention from theft and black marketeering of water, and demanded that the Aam Aadmi Party government be sacked for its "inaction".

Addressing a press conference New Delhi, Atishi said Delhi is grappling with a water crisis since Haryana is not releasing the capital's share of water and claimed that over 28 lakh people are affected.

"We have to understand that the total water supply in Delhi is 1,050 MGD. Out of this 1,050 MGD, 613 MGD comes to the Yamuna from Haryana.

"The amount of water that was supposed to come from Haryana yesterday, that is, on June 18, which was 613 MGD, has come down to 513 MGD. This means that Delhi is facing a water shortage of 100 MGD today," she said.

Elaborating on what the 100 MGD water shortage means, she said one MGD water meets the daily water demand of nearly 28,500 people.

"If Delhi is getting 100 MGD less water from Haryana, it means more than 28 lakh people are getting less water. This is the situation of Delhi today," she added.

The minister rued that at a time when Delhiites need more water due to this extreme heat, there is a shortage of water in the national capital.

Today, I have written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji and I have requested him that now the suffering of the people of Delhi is crossing all limits.

"Today, 28 lakh people in Delhi did not get water, so I have made this humble request to PM Narendra Modi that he should get water for the people of Delhi, whether he gets it from Haryana or from anywhere, but now he will have to get water for the people of Delhi somehow," she said.

In her letter to the prime minister, Atishi said, she highlighted the plight of Delhiites owing to the unprecedented heat wave and the steps taken by her to resolve the water crisis.

Invoking Hindu scriptures, she wrote in her letter, It is written in our scriptures that there is no greater virtue than giving water to a thirsty person.

In the letter, she said that if Delhi does not get water, she will have to do a 'satyagraha' from June 21.

"If by June 21, the people of Delhi do not get water, I will be forced to start a Satyagraha' for water. I will sit on an indefinite fast from June 21, until the people of Delhi get water," she said.

Atishi said they have written multiple letters to the Haryana government to resolve the issue.

"Yesterday, senior officials of the Delhi government went to meet the Haryana government officers and asked them for water for 28 lakh people of Delhi, but Haryana refused to give water," she said.

The minister said that the population of Delhi is three crore, and the allocated share of water is only 1,050 MGD.

Three crore people also live in Haryana but Haryana's water allocation is 6,500 MGD, she claimed.

"So even if Haryana has to give 100 MGD water to Delhi, it is only 1.5 per cent of its total water. Still, despite our every possible effort, the Haryana government is not giving water to Delhi, she charged.

Meanwhile, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said Haryana had provided surplus water to Delhi on Tuesday and Atishi was doing "drama" to hide the AAP government's failure.

"Atishi has now stooped to theatrics to divert attention from theft and black marketing of water. Haryana provided surplus water to Delhi yesterday and there are official documents to prove it but she is now resorting to drama," he charged.

"This government should be sacked," he said alleging the ruling AAP failed to provide water to the people of Delhi.

Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav said that Atishi should have written the letter to Prime Minister Modi earlier.

The Delhi government should have prepared a good plan involving the availability of water and its distribution, he said.
A dead frog was found in a packet of potato wafers, a Jamnagar resident in Gujarat claimed on Wednesday, prompting the civic authority to order an inquiry.

The complaint came days after a Mumbai resident claimed to have found a piece of human finger in the ice cream he had ordered online.

Samples of the production batch of the wafer packet will be collected as part of the probe, said an official of the Jamnagar Municipal Corporation.

"One Jasmin Patel informed us that a dead frog was found in a packet of Crunchex, manufactured by Balaji Wafers. We visited the shop from where it had been purchased last night. Preliminary probe suggested it was indeed a frog in a decomposed state," food safety officer D B Parmar told reporters.

"As directed by the municipal commissioner, we will collect samples of this batch of wafer packets to conduct an inquiry," he added.

Patel, a resident of Pushkar Dham society, claimed that his four-year-old niece bought the packet from a nearby shop on Tuesday evening.

She and his nine-month-old daughter ate some wafers from the packet before his niece spotted the dead frog, he said.

"My niece threw the packet away....I did not believe her when she told me. But I too was shocked to see the dead frog. When the distributor and customer care service of Balaji Wafers did not give a satisfactory reply, I informed the food safety officer in the morning," he told reporters.
His mother-in-law Sudha Murty famously declared that she travels with her own food when she travelS abroad.

'I am a pure vegetarian, I don't even eat eggs, or garlic. What I am scared of is, is that the same spoon will be used for both, vegetarian and non vegetarian food. It weighs on my mind a lot! Hence when we go out, I only search for a veg restaurant. Or, I carry one bag full of eatables,' Sudhaji told Kunar Vijaykar's YouTube show Khaane Mein Kaun Hai?

So how would Sudhaji react to these photographs of her beloved son-in-law Rishi Sunak fishing?

We don't know if daughter Akshata is now non-veg or Sudhaji's older grandchildren Krishna and Anoushka are non-veg, but we bet that Mrs Murty Sr cooks her own food -- in the small pressure cooker she says she carries on her travels -- mat 10, Downing Street, the British prime minister's residence.

Rishi is busy campaigning for the July 4 general election, which pollsters and pundits predict his Conservative party will suffer its worst defeat in its history.

If that happens, he will no longer be the Tory leader. So what will Rishi do? Quit the House of Commons -- that is, if he is re-elected from Richmond and Northallerton -- and maybe take up a job at one of pa-in-law N R Narayana Murthy's companies?

IMAGE: Rishi Sunak holds lobsters during his boat ride in the harbour in Clovelly. Photographs: Leon Neal/Pool/Reuters

IMAGE: Rishi and West Devon MP Geoffrey Cox collect lobster pots, here and below.

IMAGE: Rishi rides on a boat on the campaign trail in North Devon. Photograph: Ben Birchall/Pool/Reuters

IMAGE: Rishi speaks with fishermen during a visit to the Red Lion Hotel, Bideford in North Devon. Photograph: Ben Birchall/Pool/Reuters

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said that he sees a new opening to engage with India on 'some very serious' issues on national security after the return of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to office for a third consecutive term.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Canadian PM Justin Trudeau at the G7 Outreach Summit, in Apulia on Friday, June 15, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

In an interview to CBC News on Monday on the eve of the anniversary of the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Trudeau said, "Now that he's through his election, I think there is an opportunity for us to engage, including on some very serious issues around national security and keeping Canadians safe and the rule of law."

Trudeau's remarks follow his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Italy during the G7 Summit where India was invited as an Outreach country.

Modi had tweeted a photograph of himself with the Canadian PM as they shook hands.

After the meeting in Italy, Trudeau told the Canada-based media channel, Cable Public Affairs Channel (CPAC) there are some 'important but sensitive' issues that the two countries need to work on together. He did not share much details of what the two leaders discussed.

In his Monday interview to CBC News, Trudeau said, "I think one of the really good things about summits is you get an opportunity to engage directly with a huge range of different leaders with whom there are various issues."

"And certainly with India, there are massive people-to-people ties, there are really important economic ties, there's alignment on a number of big issues that we need to work on as democracies, as a global community," he said.

Ties between the two countries had become strained after Trudeau had in the House of Commons last year talked about 'credible allegations' about a potential link between Indian agents and the killing of the Khalistani terrorist Nijjar that took place in Surrey in British Columbia, Columbia in June 2023.

India has however dismissed the accusations as 'absurd' and 'motivated'.

Nijjar, who was designated a terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency in 2020, was shot and killed outside a Gurdwara in Surrey in June last year. Tuesday marks the first anniversary of Nijjar's death.

The video of his killing that reportedly surfaced in March this year showed Nijjar being shot by armed men.

Meanwhile, the last time Trudeau and Modi had met in person was at the G20 leaders' summit in New Delhi in September last year.
Fresh from their bruising battle in the Lok Sabha polls in Maharashtra, rival Shiv Sena factions on Wednesday used the party's Foundation Day for show of strength ahead of the assembly polls as they sought to cement their position in the state politics two years after a split.

IMAGE: Shiv Sena-UBT president Uddhav Thackeray addresses an event organised in Mumbai on the 58th Foundation Day of the Shiv Sena. Photograph: @ShivSenaUBT_/X

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who heads the Shiv Sena, and his rival and Shiv Sena-UBT president Uddhav Thackeray addressed separate events organised in Mumbai to mark the 58th Foundation Day of the party founded by the late Bal Thackeray which started with the 'son of the soil' agenda and later embraced Hindutva, bringing it close to the BJP.

Speaking at his party's event in Shanmukhananda Hall, Thackeray said he will never go with those who tried to "finish off" his party, putting paid to speculation about a possible reconciliation with the Bharatiya Janata Party post the Lok Sabha polls.

Uddhav Thackeray claimed the new Narendra Modi government at the Centre, which was sworn in on June 9, will collapse and will be replaced by an INDIA bloc dispensation.

The BJP was trying to hide its failure by spreading rumour that the Shiv Sena-UBT will join the ruling NDA, he said, adding that the poll results showed that the saffron party was not invincible.

"We will never go with those who tried to finish off our mother-like Shiv Sena," Thackeray declared, responding to speculation that he will realign with the BJP.

Misusing central agencies against opposition leaders was "government Naxalism", he said.

"This is indeed Naxalism. This is more dangerous than urban Naxalism...it misuses power to break opposition parties, topple a good government and take opposition leaders in your party. This is Naxalism which kills democracy," Thackeray said.

The BJP was claiming that his party did not get votes of Hindus and Marathi-speakers, but the Sena-UBT garnered votes from all communities, he said.

The BJP abandoned Hindutva for power, Thackeray alleged, and asked whether its alliance with regional outfits TDP and JDU was organic.

The BJP's Hindutva was "regressive" while the one professed by his party was "progressive", he said.

"Are Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar pro-Hindutva? I challenge Narendra Modi to go to Andhra Pradesh and say that I will fulfil the (assurances in) Chandrababu's manifesto. Hasn't Chandrababu made promises to the Muslim community?

"Hasn't Nitish Kumar given any assurances to the Muslim community in Bihar?" Thackeray further said.

Naidu and Kumar are key allies of the NDA and helped the BJP-led alliance reach the majority mark in the Lok Sabha.

At the Shiv Sena's programme at NSCI complex in Worli, Chief Minister Shinde said the rival faction won Lok Sabha seats in the state because of the Congress' vote bank and likened its victory to a "swelling that will go away in due course".

He lashed out at Thackeray for aligning with the Congress and accused him of discarding the ideology of party founder late Bal Thackeray for vote-bank politics.

The Congress, the Shiv Sena-UBT and the NCP-SP are part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

The CM stressed Bal Thackeray always opposed appeasement politics, but his party was not against patriotic Muslims.

Shinde said Shiv Sena-UBT's electoral success in the Lok Sabha polls was ephemeral.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena-UBT won nine Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra, while the Shiv Sena headed by Shinde emerged victorious in seven constituencies.

"Shiv Sena-UBT candidates could win only because of the Congress vote-bank. That vote-bank came as a breather for the Shiv Sena-UBT," the CM emphasised.

He likened the Shiv Sena-UBT poll victory to a "swelling" and added "It comes soon and goes away quickly as well. In the coming elections, it will go away."

Asserting his enduring relevance in Maharashtra politics, Shinde, who became CM in June 2022 after revolting against the leadership of his then-boss Uddhav Thackeray, said he will win more elections, referring to the assembly polls which are due in October.

"Shinde's relevance has not ended... I will win more elections in the coming days as well," declared the CM, an ally of the BJP and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP.

Assembly polls in the state are due in October.

Shinde asserted Uddhav Thackeray lacked the moral authority to invoke the legacy of his father Bal Thackeray.

"Where has your Hindutva gone, you have no right to seek votes in Balasaheb Thackeray's name," the CM maintained, hitting out at his predecessor.

He cited the Lok Sabha poll results as evidence of the Shiv Sena's continuing influence in Maharashtra.

Shinde noted his faction retained 14.50 per cent of the original 19 per cent vote share of the undivided Shiv Sena, while the remaining votes went to Uddhav Thackeray's camp.

The Shiv Sena leader mocked the opposition INDIA bloc for its jubilation after the Lok Sabha poll results were announced on June 4.

The Congress, the lead party in the opposition bloc, contested on 328 Lok Sabha seats, but won only 99. Despite this, the INDIA bloc is celebrating as if it has formed a government, he said.

Shinde said his party was the "true" Shiv Sena. "We, and only we, have the rightful claim to celebrate the Foundation Day of the Shiv Sena," he stressed.
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Brain pressure monitoring could be enhanced by a deep learning tool A deep learning tool that uses routinely collected data could provide a noninvasive method for clinicians to monitor intracranial hypertension in intensive care patients.

The majority of small practices claim that primary health IT providers are inadequate According to a KLAS report, many small practices report that their core health IT vendors lack key functionalities beyond EHR and practice management, including telehealth.

Recognizing serious diseases spread by mosquitoes Common mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Zika virus, West Nile virus, Chikungunya virus, dengue, and malaria, pose public health threats for various communities.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin flew to Pyongyang, North Korea, June 19, 2024, to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Vladimir Putin -- who only travels to countries (like China, North Korea) where he cannot be arrested and extradited to The Hague to face the International Court of Justice -- embraces Kim Jong Un on his arrival in Pyongyang early on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. All photographs: Korean Central News Agency/Reuters

The BBC reported that 'Putin extolling the "firm friendship" between Russia and North Korea... In response, the North Korean leader said he "fully supports" Russia's military operation in Ukraine, noting that Russia plays a significant role in maintaining the strategic balance in the world.'

Putin is 5' 7" inches tall, so unless Kim is wearing shoes with embedded heels like some Indian movie stars, the North Korean dictator is the same height.

In North Korea founder and Kim's grandfather Kim Il Sung's time, the then Soviet Union used to assist Communist Korea along with Mao Zedong's China. Today, Putin is in Pyongang to ask for missiles and weapons for his soldiers to fight the futile war in Ukraine.

The BBC reported that 'Putin walked the red carpet in Pyongyang, with surrounding buildings draped in giant Russian and North Korean flags. Crowds cheered as Kim introduced him to the North's military officials.'

CNN said 'The two are expected to ink a new strategic partnership agreement, with Putin saying ahead of the visit that they would "shape the architecture of equal and indivisible security in Eurasia".'

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
Manipur Public Works Department Minister Govindas Konthoujam on Wednesday said the recent security review meeting in Delhi, convened by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, was an executive meeting rather than a political one, and therefore, Chief Minister N Biren Singh was not a part of it.

IMAGE: Manipur CM N Biren Singh was missing at Amit Shah's Manipur security review meeting in New Delhi on Jun 17, 2024. Photograph: @AmitShah/X

He was responding to allegations by the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, which claimed that not inviting Singh to the meeting violated Schedule 7 of the Constitution.

The minister also criticised the statement by AICC leader Pawan Khera, who had suggested that Singh's exclusion from the meeting indicated a lack of confidence in him.

"We need to understand that Manipur has a security advisor appointed by the government of India to oversee the state's law and order situation. The post of the chairman of the Unified Command is also held by the security advisor, not by Singh. The Delhi meeting was an executive meeting and not a political one, hence Singh was not included," Konthoujam said.

"There is no such thing as humiliating the people of the state by not inviting the CM to the security review meeting," he added.

Terming the recent violence in Jiribum as unfortunate, Konthoujam emphasised that both the Manipur and central governments are working hard to restore peace in the area.

Condemning the ambush on the advance security convoy of CM near Kotlen on June 10, the minister described it as the work of those who oppose peace.

At the meeting on June 17, Union Home Minister Shah said the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will talk to both Meitei and Kuki communities at the earliest so as to bridge the ethnic divide in the state.

Shah also said that the central forces deployment will be increased, if required, and that they should be deployed strategically to restore peace and tranquillity in the state.

He directed that strict action must be taken as per law against the perpetrators of violence in the state.

Shah also directed to ensure that no further incident of violence take place in the state which has been witnessing ethnic clashes for over a year.
Last updated on: June 19, 2024 10:07 IST

IMAGE: Narkanda's snow-covered slopes. Photograph: ANI Photo

Shriya Saran's cute daughter.

The Top Videos of the Week, listed by Shailajanand Mishra.

Also see: Madurai's fishing festival.

And the harvesting of strawberries.

Videos chosen by you through your likes on iShare.

Picture-perfect Narkanda

Location: Narkanda

Planning a holiday?

Check out this hidden gem of a destination in Himachal Pradesh.

All Videos: ANI

A Fishing Festival That Is Hundreds Of Years Old

Location: Madurai

Five villages near Melur in Tamil Nadu's Madurai district gathered at Kallandhiri to mark a centuries-old fishing festival.

The fish is offered in prayer to their deity for a better harvest and good health in the coming year.

Shriya's Cute Daughter, Radha

Location: Mumbai

This beautiful little girl won all our hearts.

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Luscious pops of deliciousness!

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
BENNINGTON  In an effort to bring community together, the Apple Barn in Bennington hosted the Flavors of Vermont Festival.

Apple Barn employee Chloe Moore was tying red and white balloons to the fence in preparation, and young Vivian was blowing bubbles at the Flavors of Vermont Festival kids' corner, which had multiple activities for children such as a corn pit (a swimming pool loaded with dried corn), a bubble station and lawn toys. Peggy Younger was painting childrens faces.

The parking lot was packed, and the grounds and shop were filled with attendees. Couples were holding hands and strolling through the crowd, mingling with friends and acquaintances. Families were sitting at the picnic tables and enjoying food truck and vendor fare, and the Hale Mountain Band was playing. Children were everywhere.

Indoors and outdoors, shoppers were perusing the eclectic mix of available merchandise  canned and preserved pickles, jams and jellies; homemade crafts, beauty products and home decor; candy and snacks; a variety of clothing, and lots and lots of food.

Were thrilled with the fantastic turnout for this festival, said Sarah Albright, owner of the Apple Barn, as she stood at the indoor counter and served up a slushie.

The slushie was Apple Barn style, Albright said, an iced delight created by alternating layers of an apple cider slushie with layers of triple cream maple creemee. Its two of the Apple Barn's most popular items combined into one. Weve sold an incredible number of espresso drinks, apple cider slushies, maple creemees and bakery items today  especially our cider donut whoopie pies with salted maple cream.

Apple cider and maple cream whoopie pies are other Apple Barn favorites, as are the fudges, pies and turnovers.

The community support has been amazing, and we enjoy bringing more flavors to our region of Southern Vermont, Albright added. This is the perfect way to spend your Saturday.

Outdoors, vendor Sherri Lulek of Mettowee Valley Maple was selling an array of preserves, including pickles.

She was also pouring out samples of switchel, a drink from America's past. Evoking a sense of nostalgia in some, who remembered it as also being called haymaker's punch, the drink was popular during the 1700s, 1800s and early 1900s.

Farmers used to take this to the hayfields, explained Lulek, as she poured out more samples. Its really good on hot days, when you need to quench your thirst. Theres ginger in here, and apple cider vinegar, water and maple syrup. Its a Vermont thing and, if youre a farmer, youve heard of it.

With its heady pungent kick, refreshing finish and light sweetness, switchel was a hit.

The intoxicatingly tempting scent of sweet and savory meats, slowly roasted over a grill, wafted over from the Hangry Hogg food truck  turning heads and paths away from their idle destinations and transporting them directly to the ordering window.

The folks at the Hangry Hogg urged festival-goers to "put some South in your mouth" by churning out bounteous supplies of slowly smoked barbecue items such as brisket, pulled pork and ribs, along with sides such as fried green tomatoes, cornbread waffles, pit-smoked pintos, coleslaw and pork rinds.

Tasty, exclaimed Pamela Crines, licking her fingers and settling down at a picnic table to explore more of her plate, which was piled high with pulled pork. Crines drove from New Hampshire specifically to visit the Flavors of Vermont Festival.

Zeb LaRay, Hannah Sheridan, and their 10-month-old daughter Leray explored some of the vendor tents at the Flavors of Vermont Festival, including those of Allen Sackey, a basket weaver from Ghana; Lizz Denault, a self-taught jewelry maker; potter Sarah Crawford, of Rockwood Studios; Lindsay Martin, of Wicked Sniffer; Dan Carlino, who was representing the Jerky Hut; Kaitlin Blakeney, of Kaits Kitchen; Ashlynne Stemp, of Stemps Stumps; and Patrick McLaughlin of Sole Connection.

Others were enjoying shaved ice from Lemon Love, which also served churros and freshly squeezed lemonade.

In their 20-foot-long tent, the employees of Reggae Boy Cafe were serving up an array of authentic Jamaican cuisine. An employee plated a tray loaded with plantains, jerk chicken, rice and vegetables, and collard greens. Also on the menu were oxtails, spare ribs, curry chicken, mac and cheese, shishkabob, teriyaki chicken and more.

"Ooooo, what's that smell? It's Jamaican-me-crazy," called out a raucous attendee of the festival, as appreciative laughter broke out around him. The sweet and heady aroma of fried plantains from Reggae Boy Cafe was most likely the source.

Also present was Skinny Pancake, a crepe and light fare food truck with brick and mortar locations in Burlington, Quechee, Montpelier, Stowe, and Albany, N.Y.

Skinny Pancake  yeah, theyve been instrumental in working to alleviate food insecurity in Vermont, you know, said Jason Noell of Albany, noting that Skinny Pancake works to keep local dollars from leaving the regional economy by sourcing ingredients locally.

Skinny Pancake offers smash burgers with fries, and a variety of crepes in both savory  like the pulled pork crepe  and the sweet  like the strawberry rhubarb with ginger mascarpone crepes.

Were especially looking forward to our next festival on July 20, said Albright, taking a moment to look around at the activity. Thats when we celebrate all things blueberry at our annual Blueberry Festival. Thats where we open our fields of blueberries for free picking all day, and serve up some special blueberry treats alongside. Theyll be tons of vendors with live music and activities all day long.

The Apple Barn is at 604 US Route 7 South in Bennington.
Jean Marie Davis of Branches Pregnancy Resource Center in Brattleboro stands behind her son (middle) amidst her supporters and legal team outside of the U.S. District Court in Burlington on May 16, 2024.
BRATTLEBORO  The Retreat Farm announced Thursday that it will be scaling back its operation
BRATTLEBORO  A project aimed at bringing as many as 300 housing units to the Winston Prouty Center for Child and Family Development continues to gain momentum.

Chloe Learey, executive director of the center, announced Tuesday that U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., nominated water and sewer upgrades for the project to receive $2 million through congressionally designated spending. If that funding is approved, Learey called the component "a big piece of the puzzle" as it's estimated to cost about $7 million.

"It just feels like things are coming together to make it more concrete," she said at the Select Board meeting Tuesday, where a hearing closed out the $50,000 planning grant from the Vermont Community Development Program to look at water and sewer. "It's been this big vision. Some people say, 'Oh, that Prouty project is already happening.' I'm here to tell you it will happen, but it's not happening yet. We still need support."

Master planning, initial design and preliminary meetings with neighbors have been conducted. A feasibility study found that capacity for the project exists in the town's water and sewer infrastructure.

Learey said her group "made a lot of progress in trying to find out the unknowns and the water service was a really big piece of it." They decided they don't want to compete with housing trusts and developers for low income housing tax credits nor do they want to limit the project to only lower income units.

"We're really trying to create a truly mixed income neighborhood that's broadly mixed income," she said.

A development consultant hired for the project suggested modular construction could help reduce costs. Learey said architects are "helping us think about how we might do a little more mix and match, some different kinds of housing to meet different needs, so that it's not all just this one sort of cookie cutter."

"We are close to having the next conceptual design to share with neighbors, with the town, and get feedback on that, so that we can move forward with finalizing design," she said.

The hope is to put a shovel in the ground by 2025 and build in phases. Initial construction might be for water storage upgrades, Learey said.

She noted community support will be crucial to the project. Given potential traffic implications, board member Franz Reichsman said the larger vision will be a tough sell in his Esteyville neighborhood.

"I think the last time we had a community meeting on this was about a year-and-a-half ago," he said, "so there's been a lot of kind of stewing under the surface amongst my neighbors about this."

He suggested a slow scaling up might be more welcome to his neighbors and attract additional investors over time.

Commentary | Chloe Learey: You can have a role in addressing the shortage of housing in Windham County The recent Voices Live: A Conversation on Homelessness at the Brooks Memorial Library in B

In commentary published in the Reformer last month, Learey said her group's "primary need right now is to attract flexible financial resources from people and entities that are interested in investing in our community through this project." She called the housing crisis "a great example of a challenge that requires our collective action to solve."

"Brattleboro needed 500 units of housing to meet demand three years ago, and we get further behind as each year passes," she wrote. "We need all the solutions and all the types of housing, from accessory dwelling units to rehabilitated apartments to infill development to multi-family new construction by public, non-profit and private developers. Our housing ecosystem is failing, and building a healthy housing continuum is essential to changing course away from economic decline."

In a letter to Learey, Sanders said the nomination for congressionally directed spending is "just the first step of the process, as requests from members do not guarantee that your project will receive funding." Each request is reviewed by one of 12 appropriations subcommittees, according to the letter.

Subcommittees decide which projects will be included in final legislation, Sanders wrote.

"Further, as you are no doubt aware, the process of funding the federal government can be long and complicated," the letter states.
Robert Beck of Peterborough, N.H. served for 30 years overseas with the United States government in embassies in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. He now teaches foreign policy classes at Keene State Colleges Cheshire Academy for Lifelong Learning. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Sunny skies. High 66F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

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The Kremlin has issued a flurry of statements in the past few weeks that suggest that Russia is ready to negotiate a diplomatic settlement to the war in Ukraine.

The joint statement issued by Russias President Vladimir Putin and Chinas President Xi Jinping after their May 1617 state visit included the statement that both sides emphasized that dialogue is a good way to resolve the Ukraine crisis.

In Belarus one week later, when asked about his willingness for peace talks, Putin answered, Let them resume. The Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has said that Russia does not want eternal war, and on May 24, Reuters reported that a senior Russian source said that Putin can fight for as long as it takes, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefireto freeze the war.

Other statements out of Moscow hold hints as to the possible starting points for such talks and to the compromises Russia might be willing to offer.

The logical place to start, according to Putin and other Russian officials, would be where the Istanbul Communique ended. This idea was first raised by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who hosted the first round of RussianUkrainian peace talks in Belarus, on April 11, 2024. Take the document (that you once showed me), put it on the table and work on it, Lukashenko suggested. This is a sensible position. There is an acceptable position for Ukraine as well. They were ready to sign it after all. Of course, Vladimir Putin confirmed.

Peskov later confirmed that Moscow believed the Istanbul Communique could be the basis for starting negotiations.

The very existence of such a tentative agreement, signed by the heads of both the Russian and Ukrainian negotiation delegations, was doubted by many, but has now been confirmed by at least three independent sources. On March 1, 2024, the Wall Street Journal confirmed that what they called a draft peace treaty does exist because they and others familiar with the negotiations, had viewed it. On April 16, 2024, Samuel Charap of RAND and Sergey Radchenko of John Hopkins University wrote in Foreign Affairs that they had closely scrutinized two of these drafts. And on April 26, 2024, the German paper Die Welt reported that it had the original document.

According to Germanys former Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, who became involved as an intermediary at the request of the Ukrainian government, the agreement contained five key points: The first was no NATO membership for Ukraine, though Russia did not object to EU membership. The second was bilingualism at the official level. The third was regional autonomy for Donbass along the model of South Tyrol in Italy. The fourth was security guarantees backed by the UN Security Council and key Ukrainian allies. The final point regarded territorial adjustments. Crimea would be recognized as Russian, and the status of Donetsk and Lugansk were to be determined through personal meetings between Putin and Zelensky. The Kherson and Zaporozhye regions that Russia incorporated after the talks broke down were at that time still part of Ukraine.

Ukraines agreement not to join NATO has consistently been seen as the key point, according to the leader of Ukraines negotiating team in Istanbul, Davyd Arakhamia. Russia was prepared to end the war if we agreed toneutrality, he says. Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky echoes this, saying as far as I remember, they started a war because of this.

Although the two sides remained quite far apart on the size of the Ukrainian armed forces and security guarantees, Die Welt concludes that Kyiv and Moscow largely agreed on conditions for an end to the war. Only a few points remained open. These were to be negotiated personally by Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky at a summit meeting.

Recent remarks by Putin hint at a way forward on these issues. Putin has suggested that a Russia-Ukraine peace deal should be part of a new and comprehensive European security arrangement with security guarantees for all.

We are open to a dialogue on Ukraine, Putin reportedly said, but such negotiations must take into account the interests of all countries involved in the conflict, including Russia's. They must also involve a substantive discussion on global stability and security guarantees for Russia's opponents and, naturally, for Russia itself.

Russia has long sought such a comprehensive, co-operative and indivisible security community throughout our shared OSCE area. Indeed, it thought that the West had agreed to this concept in the final declarations of the 1999 Istanbul Summit and the 2010 Astana Summit, and felt betrayed when later informed that they were not legally binding. In this context, Russia views NATOs unilateral decision to expand eastward, taking in all of Europe except for Russia, as threatening and intolerable, and continues to insist that any permanent solution to the conflict in Ukraine must also address the foundational European security crisis.

Doing so would clearly benefit both Ukraine and Europe. The Istanbul agreement was blocked by the West, in part, because the West balked at security guarantees to Ukraine that would oblige them to go to war with Russia should it invade Ukraine. A comprehensive European security structure that embraced both countries would go a long way toward assuaging Western worries, since its architecture would oblige all the parties to prevent war, rather than intervene after one had begun. Such a comprehensive security framework would thus simultaneously give both Ukraine and to Russia the security guarantees they seek.

While restarting the Istanbul dialogue of 2022 seems hard to imagine, multiple Russian sources told Reuters that Putin would settle for what land he has now and freeze the conflict at the current front lines. If true, then Putin might be willing, at least for now, not to push on to Odessa or Kharkiv, and may even be willing to give up parts of the newly annexed regions that are not yet fully under Russian military control.

There is clearly a path around the roadblocks that have prevented peace so farsecurity guarantees that would satisfy both Ukraine and Russia and serve as a starting point for territorial compromises. It would leave a secure Ukraine with 80 percent of its territory, which is more than it has been able to gain on the battlefield, and lead to EU membership. As Alexey Arestovich, a former Zelensky advisor who was involved in the Istanbul negotiations put it, for Ukraine this would be not a bad deal at all.

With tens of thousands of Ukrainian and Russian soldiers being wounded or killed each month, and the acute risk of more territory being lost, isnt the option of negotiating a settlement with Russia at least worth exploring?
Early this month Vietnamese authorities forced an ascetic monk, Thich Minh Tue, who had become an internet sensation, to give up his seven-year cross-country trek.

Authorities stressed that the barefoot mendicant monk, who attracted thousands of onlookers. was a threat to traffic safety. But his real crime was his humble lifestyle that stands in such stark contrast to the corruption scandals that have rocked Vietnam.

Those include a $24 billion embezzlement case at Saigon Commercial Bank whose owner was sentenced to death.

Six Politburo members, one-third of those elected at the 13th Congress in January 2021, were forced to resign between December 2022 and May 2024. These include two presidents, a deputy prime minister, the chairman of the National Assembly, and the head of the Communist Partys day-to-day operations.

inh Tien Dung has been relieved of his position as Hanoi party chief, indicating that the former minister of finance is likely to be the seventh member ousted from the Politburo.

Thich Minh Tue, the monk who trekked across Vietnam for years, is seen in this undated photo. (Thinh Nguyen via Facebook)

In addition, 20 of the 180 Central Committee members (11%) elected in January 2021 have also been forced out, not to mention former ministers.

The irony that the man who appears to have come out on top after all crackdowns was the one filmed eating thousand-dollar gold encrusted steaks at a celebrity chef restaurant in London after laying a wreath at the grave of Karl Marx, is lost on no one.

That could have been career ending, but for To Lam, the former Minister of Public Security, the best defense was a good offense, and he took down each rival with efficient dispatch, in a display of unprecedented personal ambition in a system that prides itself on its collective leadership.

But Lam, now the president, was only doing the bidding of Nguyen Phu Trong, the Communist Party of Vietnams 80-year old general secretary, who has not taken any responsibility for the campaign that has not just caused political turmoil and rattled foreign investors, but has left the CPV institutionally weaker and delegitimized in the eyes of the public.

Trong is correct in his assessment that corruption poses a threat to the partys legitimacy and has made the Blazing Furnace campaign the centerpiece of his 13-year tenure.

Endemic corruption

Corruption is endemic, and in many ways its growing worse.

For foreign investors, corruption used to be predictable. But with some $36 billion in pledged investment in 2023 alone, and $11 billion in the first quarter of 2024, everyone is trying to get their cut. Corruption is coming from all directions and at all levels. It is no longer the lubricant to get deals done, but starting to become predatory and holding back growth.

Related stories

Unofficial monk who became internet sensation in Vietnam ends pilgrimage

How TikTok made a barefoot Vietnamese monk go viral

Viewers doubt authenticity of Vietnam state TV interview with independent monk

Vietnams Communist Party might not attain the normalcy it seeks after reshuffle

Its hard to see that the investigations of the senior leadership have been effective. In many ways, the party has made a mockery out of the allegations of corruption surrounding its leaders.

To date, all six ousted Politburo members have been given soft landings; allowed to resign with a slight reprimand and keep their status, perks and wealth. No one has been criminally investigated.

To Lam takes his oath as Vietnam's president during the National Assembly's summer session in Hanoi on May 22, 2024. (Dang Anh/AFP)

Some have already enjoyed rehabilitations of sorts. Former president Nguyen Xuan Phuc has been photographed with other party leaders ahead of key meetings paying his respects at the tomb of Ho Chi Minh.

Politically, Trong unleashed something that he lost control of. He stood by as comrades, including heir apparent Vuong Dinh Hue, were taken down one by one.

The Blazing Furnace anti-corruption campaign has also caused lasting damage to the partys image.

If anything, the campaign exposed an unwelcome truth. Its not one or two bad apples at the top. Its all of them.

One by one, the public saw the exposure of senior leaders whove been vetted by the system as they moved up through the ranks. Each of them had gotten wealthy through kickbacks, access to land or corporate holdings held by family and friends.

Short on expertise

While Trong believes that the partys legitimacy comes through anti-corruption campaigns, in reality, legitimacy primarily comes through performance.

The purge of experienced technocrats, the stocking of the Politburo with a disproportionate number of personnel  five of 18  who emerged from the control-oriented Ministry of Public Security, and the overall dearth of economic experience, does not bother Trong.

There is an appalling lack of economic expertise amongst the senior leadership today; and it could be made worse once Dung is forced to resign. While newly appointed Politburo member Le Minh Hung has significant economic experience, hes currently in charge of personnel for the Communist Party, hell be occupied with what is no small job ahead of the 14th Congress.

Corruption investigations have led to a halt to much needed infrastructure spending, as mid-level bureaucrats are terrified of being investigated.

Vietnam's former President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, center, attends the opening of the National Assembly's summer session in Hanoi on May 22, 2023. (Nhac Nguyen/AFP)

Although Vietnam still enjoys enviable GDP growth, the government is missing its target for a second year in a row, at a time when regional competitors are looking more attractive.

The churn in senior leadership has completely undermined the countrys selling point to foreign investors of being politically stable and predictable. A series of corporate and banking scandals have exposed the countrys weak regulatory capacity.

Targeting a handful of leaders will do nothing to change human nature. Corruption is endemic in Vietnam because of low government salaries, soft property rights, rent-seeking behavior, and a party that puts itself above the law. Without a free press and robust civil society, the government will always be unaccountable.

Truth teller arrested

The case of Truong Huy San drives this point home.

Better known by his pen name, Huy Duc, the independent journalist and influencer was arrested in early June. While the arrest was predicted, it was still a shock to many, given his close ties to many senior leaders.

His recent broadsides on Lam and Trong may have been the last straw.

On May 26, Duc posted an article on Facebook, titled A Country Cannot Develop Based on Fear, which criticized the weaponization of anti-corruption investigations that propelled Lam to the presidency and made him a leading contender to be the next party general secretary.

The appointment of Lams protege, Luong Tam Quang, as minister of public security, portends the continued use of anti-corruption investigations to target rivals.

Two days later, Duc criticized Trongs scorched-earth campaign as being insufficient and counterproductive.

Charged under Article 331 of the vietnam Penal Code for abusing democratic freedoms and infring[ing] on the interests of the state, Duc was getting to a truth: without institutional and legal reforms, as well as freeing the media, no counter-corruption campaign can ever be successful.

Journalist Truong Huy San, also known as Huy Duc, is seen during a visit to Hanoi, April 10, 2021. (AFP)

Contrary to strengthening the party, Trong has helped to delegitimize it, exposing the rot across the senior leadership, while at the same time slowing economic growth. He has also stifled civil society and independent media, which tries to hold the party leadership to account.

Trong has blamed everyone but himself, as he continues to shape the party in the months ahead of the 14th Congress in early 2026. As he calls on others to account for the damage they have done to the party, he should hold himself to the same standard.

Rather than implementing institutional reforms, Trong is targeting an ascetic monk who has garnered a mass following by simply standing in stark contrast with the national leadership that, despite their pledged socialist ethos, has lost touch with their values and become mired in corruption.

Zachary Abuza is a professor at the National War College in Washington and an adjunct at Georgetown University. The views expressed here are his own and do not reflect the position of the U.S. Department of Defense, the National War College, Georgetown University or Radio Free Asia.
A claim emerged in both English and Chinese-language social media posts that the U.S. state of South Dakota banned the sale of sliced watermelons because it is antisemitic.

But the claim is false. Keyword searches found no official or credible reports to back the claim, which has been debunked by several international news organizations.

The claim was shared on Chinas Weibo social media platform on May 24, 2024.

South Dakota bans the sale of cut watermelons. The reason? because its antisemitic. Watermelons are black, white, red and green, which happen to be the colors of the Palestinian flag, the post reads in part.

Therefore, selling sliced watermelons in public is tantamount to supporting Palestine, and supporting Palestine is antisemitism, it reads.

Over the past few months, watermelon has become a symbol of solidarity for Palestinians for its colors that match their flag, according to PBS Newshour.

The colors of sliced watermelon  with red pulp, green-white rind and black seeds  are the same as those of the Palestinian flag.

Similar claims have been shared on Weibo and X, formerly known as Twitter.

Chinese netizens on Weibo and X posted claimed that South Dakota ordered a state ban on the sale of cut watermelons because of perceived anti-Semitic overtones. (Screenshots/Weibo and X)





But the claim is false.

Keyword searches found no official or credible reports to back the claim.

The claim has been debunked by multiple international news organizations, including USA Today and Reuters.

Reuters cited Ian Fury, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noems chief of communications, as saying that there was no truth to the posts.

Translated by Shen Ke. Edited by Shen Ke and Taejun Kang.

Asia Fact Check Lab (AFCL) was established to counter disinformation in todays complex media environment. We publish fact-checks, media-watches and in-depth reports that aim to sharpen and deepen our readers understanding of current affairs and public issues. If you like our content, you can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X.
The move will make it harder for anyone hoping to seek political asylum in the United States.

Ecuadors capital city of Quito is seen in this Oct. 9, 2017 photo.

Authorities in Ecuador have suspended visa-free entry to Chinese nationals starting July 1, citing a jump in arrivals, half of whom either overstay the terms of their entry or leave the country via "irregular routes" to other destinations, making them vulnerable to human traffickers.

Ecuador's capital Quito has become a well-known jumping off point for Chinese nationals planning to make the dangerous journey overland to Mexico prior to claiming political asylum in the United States, a grueling journey known as "walking the line."

The move, which was announced ahead of World Refugee Day on June 20, is a heavy blow for the "run" movement -- a buzzword describing the mass exodus of people from China following the lifting of pandemic restrictions in late 2022.

The meme took off during the grueling lockdowns, mass incarceration in quarantine camps and compulsory testing of Xi Jinping's zero-COVID policy, which the government ended abruptly, following nationwide protests, in December 2022.

Ecuador's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility said it was suspending visa-free entry to Chinese nationals due to "an unusual increase in irregular migratory flows of Chinese citizens ... who would be using Ecuador as a starting point to reach other destinations."

Chinese migrants navigate thick brush after being smuggled into the U.S. from Mexico in Fronton, Texas, April 5, 2023. (Reuters)





"In recent months, there has been a worrying increase in migratory flows from China," the Ministry said in a June 18 statement posted to its official X account.

"50% of these entries have not left through regular routes and within the times established by law," it said, adding that the ban will "[prevent] them from being victims of human trafficking or migrant smuggling."

Chinese border crossings

Since last year, a total of 66,000 Chinese citizens have entered Ecuador, but only 34,000 have left the country through official routes, according to the ministry.

The U.S. government has also reported a huge increase in the number of Chinese citizens seeking political asylum last year.

More than 37,000 Chinese nationals were arrested at the U.S. southern land border in 2023, 10 times the number of the previous year.

There was a small dip in the first three months of 2024, but numbers rebounded to 3,282 in April, according to U.S. government statistics.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the visa-free arrangement had been in place since August 2016, and had "played an important and positive role in promoting cross-border travel and practical cooperation in various fields between the two countries."

While he didn't directly address the mass exodus of Chinese nationals via Ecuador since the lifting of COVID-19 travel bans in 2022, he said the Chinese government continues to "work with relevant countries to jointly tackle human smuggling activities."

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian speaks on June 18, 2024, in Beijing. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, PRC)





"The Chinese government firmly opposes all forms of human smuggling," Lin told a news briefing in Beijing on Tuesday.

"Chinese law enforcement departments are working with relevant countries to jointly tackle human smuggling activities, repatriate illegal immigrants and maintain a good order in cross-border travel," he said.

Trekking through the rainforest

Performance artist and social media personality Chen Shaotian, also known as Brother Tian, documented his hazardous trek through the Central American rainforest after touching down in Quito in May 2023, via a video sharing platform.

Chen, who has previously served a 14-month jail term for criticizing the Communist Party on social media, said his trip took him and a party of 200 other Chinese citizens through bus stations, border checkpoints, refugee camps and other facilities that have sprung up to serve the constant stream of people heading for the United States through Central America.

Along the way, they were fleeced by corrupt police, paid fees to the "snakehead" people smuggling gangs, who charged extra for a more comfortable trek involving tents and horses, and robbed repeatedly along the way, Chen told RFA Mandarin after arriving in the United States.

Chen said he flew to Turkey, then to Ecuador, before making his way northwards along the coast through Peru and Venezuela.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie.
Leaders of the two neighbors concluded one-on-one talks that lasted about two hours, Russian media reported.

Portraits of Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un are displayed side by side in Pyongyang, June 19, 2024.

Updated June 19, 2024, 6:28 a.m. ET.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un hailed a new, high level of alliance with Russia on Wednesday as he promised President Vladimir Putin full support for his war in Ukraine, media reported.

Putin, on his first visit to isolated North Korea in 24 years, said after one-on-one talks with Kim that lasted for about two hours that a new comprehensive strategic partnership pact would form the basis of relations for years to come, said a correspondent from Russias RIA Novosti news agency.

Kim said the pact signed by the two leaders was historic and he reaffirmed full support and firm solidarity with the Russian government, armed forces and people in their struggle to defend their sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity in Ukraine, according to a video of summit remarks released by media outlets.

In the future, we will continue to strengthen and deepen strategic communication with the Russian leadership and Russia and unconditionally support all of Russias policies, regardless of the complex international situation, Kim said.

Kim said relations were at an all-time high, unparalleled even in the past relations with the Soviet Union, adding that he was confident Putin's visit would further solidify the friendship and people-to-people foundation of the two countries.

Putin thanked Kim saying he appreciated North Koreas support.

We very much appreciate your systematic and permanent support of Russian policy, including on the Ukrainian issue, Russian media quoted Putin as telling Kim at the start of their meeting, AFP reported.

The United States says that North Korea has supplied Russia with large amounts of weapons for its war in Ukraine, in particular artillery rounds and ballistic missiles, although both Russia and North Korea deny that.

In exchange for its weapons, North Korea is suspected of getting Russian technological assistance for its space program.

Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his visit to Pyongyang, North Korea, in this image released by the North Korean government, June 19, 2024. (KCNA via Reuters)

In May, the Norths attempt to launch a military spy satellite ended in failure with the rocket exploding on liftoff. But in November last year, North Korea successfully placed a spy satellite into orbit, and it had planned to launch three more satellites in 2024.

Earlier on Wednesday, the two leaders attended a welcome ceremony at Pyongyang's massive Kim Il Sung Square, complete with an honor guard and rows of North Korean citizens with balloons. Buildings around the square were bedecked with the countries' flags and huge portraits of the two men, pictures in Russian state media showed.

Crowds in red, white and blue shirts waved flowers and flags as the two leaders passed by, standing in an open-top limousine.

Solid friendship

Both Russia and North Korea are facing wide-ranging sanctions, the former for its invasion of Ukraine and the latter for its development of nuclear bombs and the missiles to deliver them around the world.

In an apparent reference to the sanctions, Putin, in a commentary published on the eve of his visit in North Koreas state-run Rodong Sinmun newspaper, called for unity in resisting illegal and unilateral restrictions, while vowing to build alternative systems for trade and settlements with North Korea out of the control of the West.

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Kim said bilateral ties were entering their best period ever, calling Putin's visit the most significant strategic step for world peace and security.

The government of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea appreciates the important mission and role of the powerful Russian Federation in maintaining strategic stability and balance in the world, Kim said.

The Russian leader added that he was confident of the success of his talks with Kim and extended an invitation for the next North Korea-Russia summit to take place in Moscow.

Russia and North Korea have been tied for several decades by a solid friendship and close neighborhood [relations], said Putin who heralded bilateral cooperation based on the principles of equality and mutual respect of interests."

It is Putins first trip to North Korea since July 2000, when he met the then leader, Kim Jong-il, the late father of the current leader. It also comes nine months after Kim traveled to Russias Far East for a summit with Putin.

The rare visit by a foreign leader to North Korea and boosts a relationship that offers Pyongyang an alternative to its close ties to Beijing, analysts say.

North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty of friendship and mutual assistance in 1961 which included a provision for so-called automatic military intervention, under which if one side is under armed attack, the other provides troops and other aid without hesitation.

North Korea and Russia signed a new treaty of bilateral ties in 2000, but it did not contain such a provision as it centered on economic, scientific and cultural cooperation.

Experts said the two leaders could discuss North Korean workers going to Russia. The North is desperate for foreign currency due to the international sanctions, while Russia has been facing a labor shortage exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.

Edited by RFA Staff.

Updated to include remarks from Kim.
Thousands marched for Aung San Suu Kyis birthday, calling for the release of all political prisoners.

A protestor in Yangons strike called for the release of former State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyis 79th birthday on June 19, 2024.

Protesters marched in cities across Myanmar on Wednesday in a show of support for democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi on her birthday and to call for the release of all political prisoners, participants told Radio Free Asia.

Suu Kyi, who turned 79, has been in detention since the army ousted her civilian government in a 2021 coup, triggering turmoil as democracy supporters took to the streets in huge numbers, with many, after their rallies were crushed, taking up arms in a bid to end military rule.

We wish for the freedom of Suu Kyi, all political prisoners and the entire country, a resident of the Sagaing regions Wetlet township told RFA.

We launched this strike to show that we have not forgotten our leader, he said, adding that the Wetlet protest had drawn about 1,000 people.

Suu Kyi led Myanmars campaign to end decades of military rule from 1988, spending decades under house arrest before the military launched tentative reforms that included a 2015 election that her party swept.

Myanmar's then state counselor, Aung San Suu Kyi, delivers a speech to the nation over the Rohingya minority situation, in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, Sept. 19, 2017 (Soe Zeya Tun/Reuters)





Defying bans on gatherings, her supporters throughout the country came out to mark her birthday, marching, cutting birthday cakes and holding up roses as a symbol of defiance.

In the south, in the Tanintharyi regions capital of Dawei, about 500 people gathered for a march, according to Min Lwin Oo, a member of an activist group called the Democracy Movement Strike Committee

A group in the main city of Yangon, members of a group raised a banner with her name Suu, an activist said, adding that junta security forces were out in force in the former capital.

Flower in his hair

There were no reports of arrests in Yangon but in the second city of Mandalay, in the Chanayethazan township, security men in plain clothes arrested two young men at a tea shop, residents said.

One of the two young men wore a flower in his hair, said one resident, who declined to be identified. I think they were arrested because they were wearing flowers.

A junta spokesman was not immediately available for comment but the military said on its Telegram social media channels that about 10 people were arrested in Mandalay for participating in a flower strike.

Suu Kyi, the daughter of the leader of the campaign for independence from British colonial rule, General Aung San, was initially sentenced by the junta to 33 years on 19 charges that she denied. The sentence was later reduced to 27 years.

The Nobel laureate was long believed to be in solitary confinement in a prison in the capital, Naypyidaw, but media reported in April she had been moved to house arrest. Her exact whereabouts are unknown.

She has been largely denied contact with the outside world but Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai was allowed to meet July last year and said she was in good health.

Several embassies in Myanmar recognized her birthday in social media posts. The British Embassy called for the release of her and all prisoners arrested arbitrarily.

According to data from the Association for Political Prisoners released on Tuesday, the junta has killed more than 5,000 people and arrested more than 20,000 since the coup.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Taejun Kang.
Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. pins a medal on a Philippine Navy sailor wounded two days earlier when the China Coast Guard blocked a resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal, June 19, 2024.

The Philippines military chief on Wednesday demanded that China return firearms its coast guard seized from Filipino troops during what he described as harassment of the countrys resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal in which one Filipino sailor lost a finger.

The incident Monday set off a war of words, with the United States condemning escalatory and irresponsible actions by the Chinese Coast Guard and Beijing accusing the Philippine side of deliberately causing a collision.

Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Wednesday visited the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command, or WESCOM, in Palawan, a province fronting the South China Sea. He said he was there to rally the troops, pinning a medal to Navy man Jeffrey Facundo who lost a digit in Mondays incident.

Local media in Palawan earlier reported that seven other Filipinos sustained minor injuries when the China Coast Guard intercepted a rigid-hulled inflatable boat belonging to the Philippine Navy in the vicinity of Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin and called Renai Jiao by Beijing.

"Our action now is that we are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles and our equipment. And we are also demanding from them to pay for the damages that they have caused," Brawner said in Palawan. Transcripts of his comments were made available to reporters.

"We cannot allow them to just take and destroy our equipment. For me, this is piracy already because they boarded our boat illegally, they (took) our equipment, Brawner said. Again, they are like pirates for doing such actions.

This handout photo shows what the Philippines armed forces says is communication and navigational equipment smashed by Chinese personnel after they forcibly boarded the AFPs 9-meter Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat on June 17, 2024. [Armed Forces of the Philippines handout]





The Armed Forces of the Philippines claimed its vessel was forcibly towed, looted and damaged, and that Chinese personnel used machetes, knives and pikes to threaten sailors and damage equipment.

Differing accounts

The incident was first reported by the Chinese press, which accused the Philippine side of setting off the confrontation when it ignored warnings and proceeded to Ayungin, where Manila maintains a rusting Navy ship that was purposely grounded there in 1999 to serve as its outpost in the disputed region.

At a press conference in Beijing on Wednesday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian repeated that what caused the incident was deliberate intrusion into the waters of Renai Jiao and that the law enforcement action taken by China Coast Guard on the scene was professional and restrained.

Rear Adm. Alfonso Torres, the WESCOM chief, said the CCG confiscated seven rifles aboard the Philippine Navy boat they intercepted. They also destroyed the boats communications and navigational equipment as well as the personal mobile phones of the Filipino personnel.

Torres said the firearms that were seized were disassembled and in gun cases because troops have strict instructions not to show or handle firearms in the vicinity of the disputed shoal, to dial down the tension. He said one of the CCG boats rammed the Philippine Navy boat at high speed, injuring Facundo who lost his right thumb.

The Chinese armed with blades and machetes then boarded the Filipino vessel and pointed weapons at the Filipinos, who fought back, though outmatched, Brawner said, adding that the CCG boats outnumbered the Filipinos eight to one.

Before disembarking, the Chinese personnel punctured the Philippine boat with a bladed weapon, he added.

While there were guns and weapons aboard the BRP Sierra Madre, the Philippine Navy decided not to use them because we dont want a war to break out, Brawner said.

In this handout photo, a Chinese coast guard member is described as brandishing an axe at Philippine troops on a rotation and resupply mission to a disputed reef in the South China Sea, June 17, 2024. [Armed Forces of the Philippines handout]





"The core issue remains -- the illegal presence and actions of Chinese vessels within our jurisdiction. The continued aggressive behavior of the Chinese Coast Guard is what escalates tensions in the area," Brawner said.

The incident was the third this year in which Philippine personnel have been hurt on missions to rotate and resupply troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal. On March 5 and March 23, Filipino crew members were injured when their supply boats were hit by water cannons from Chinese vessels.

Tensions between China and the Philippines have notched up in recent months in the resource-rich South China Sea, where six parties hold overlapping claims. Beijings are the most expansive, including more than sea, according to analysts.

China has been blocking the Philippines efforts to bring supplies to the marines stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre, saying the voyages violate Chinas jurisdiction despite the reef being located well inside Manilas exclusive economic zone.

Jojo Rinoza contributed to this report from Manila

BenarNews is an online news agency affiliated with Radio Free Asia.
The visit is praised as a symbol of Vietnams foreign policy but not expected to yield much.

A motorcade of Russian President Vladimir Putin moves near the Hotel Metropole Hanoi, where he is expected to stay, during a security rehearsal ahead of his visit to Vietnam in Hanoi, Vietnam, June 19, 2024.

On the afternoon of March 2, 2001, the packed hall at Hanoi's Vietnam-Russia Friendship Palace erupted in cheers and applause as President Vladimir Putin walked in. The energetic 49-year-old shook hands and chatted with members of the audience before delivering a warm address.

A similar gathering of alumni of Russian universities and institutes is planned in Hanoi for Putin, who is in his fifth term as Russias president, and on his fifth visit to Vietnam.

Yet its hard to expect an equally enthusiastic welcome for the Russian leader this time in a country where, though fondness for Russia remains strong, its invasion of Ukraine has eroded some support, analysts say.

A crowd of Hanois residents try to reach visiting Russian President (L) for a hand-shake as the Russian leader leaves the temple of the Literature in Hanoi on March 2, 2001. (Hoang Dinh Nam/AFP)





Russia has a close, long-standing relationship with Vietnam and is one of Hanois few comprehensive strategic partners.

However, after more than 20 years, the relationship between the old allies has changed substantially. Vietnam has adopted an open-door policy since the mid-1980s and has since normalized relations with countries it fought in the past, including China and the United States.

Hanoi takes great pride in its so-called bamboo diplomacy, that enables it to befriend former foes while maintaining old friendships.

Putins visit is highly symbolic, said Nguyen Ngoc Truong, a senior Vietnamese diplomat turned foreign affairs analyst. It reflects Vietnams independent, self-reliant and multilateral foreign policy.

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Vietnam invited U.S. and Chinese top leaders to visit last year so this visit shows once again that Hanoi is pursuing its foreign affairs principles without exception, Truong told RFA.

There is still a part of Vietnams society that is deeply Russophile, but it is shrinking. The Ukraine war has also led to a shift in the way the Vietnamese public view Russia, and Putin personally, the analyst added.

Low expectations

Putin arrived early on Thursday in Hanoi from Pyongyang where he held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to boost the ties of two countries both at odds with the West.

The Russian president is expected to spend about 24 hours in Hanoi and to meet the four most senior Vietnamese leaders  the general secretary of the Communist Party, the state president, the prime minister and the National Assemblys chairman.

Putins delegation will discuss cooperation projects in various areas, including energy and defense, but no major agreements are expected.

Vietnamese police officers stand guard near the Opera House in preparation for the security rehearsal ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Vietnam, in Hanoi, Vietnam, June 19, 2024. (Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters)





Trade between Vietnam and Russia stands at just US$3.7 billion, lagging far behind that with the United States -- to the tune of US$97 billion -- and with China -- US$131 billion.

Russia is still Vietnams biggest supplier of weapons but purchases have decreased markedly over the past five years and Hanoi did not place any new orders last year.

U.S. sanctions have also made payment to Russia difficult so the two sides would have to discuss a new financial mechanism, according to Nguyen The Phuong, a Vietnamese political scientist at the University of New South Wales in Australia.

It is impossible for Vietnam to wean off Russias weapons overnight, Phuong said. It still has to rely on Russia for a long time to come as its very hard to find alternative sources.

Russian experts said Vietnam will also be mindful not to irk the United States too much with Putins trip.

Vietnam as an export-oriented economy depends much more on the U.S. so it will act with an eye on Washington, and Beijing as those countries are much more important for Vietnam than Russia these days, Kirill Kotkov, head of the Center for Far Eastern Countries Studies in St. Petersburg, told Russian media.

If there is a conflict with China, for instance, Russia will not be able to support Vietnam like we did in 1979 and the Vietnamese know that, Kotkov added, referring to a brief but bloody Sino-Vietnam border war.

Valuable partner

Vietnam is not a member of the International Criminal Court, or ICC, and so has no obligation to act on an arrest warrant it issued for in 2023 over alleged war crimes in Ukraine.

Still, a spokesperson for the U.S. embassy in Hanoi, voiced disapproval of Putins visit.

No country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities, the spokesperson told Reuters when asked about the impact of the visit on ties with the U.S.

If he is able to travel freely, it could normalize Russia's blatant violations of international law.

Despite such U.S. misgivings, Hanoi remains a steadfast friend and partner to Moscow, analysts say.

Vietnam has never joined any anti-Russian forces and blocs, nor has it supported any embargoes or sanctions aimed at isolating Russia, Russian analyst Grigory Trophymchuk, told the Vietnam News Agency. For the Russian Federation, this is particularly valuable from a geopolitical point of view.

Vietnamese children play near Lenin statue in Hanoi, Vietnam, June 29, 2023. (Tran Viet Duc/RFA)





Putins visit comes as Vietnam is going through an unprecedented upheaval in its domestic politics, largely because of an anti-corruption campaign, called blazing furnace, initiated by Communist Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong.

The campaign, and the infighting it has generated, has led to the departure of six members of the partys Politburo and the ascent of To Lam, a former minister of public security, to state president.

General Secretary Trong  and not Vietnams president  is the host of Putins trip, as well as of the previous trips by U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

That's intended to show that the general secretary position is still the most powerful and the Communist Party is the real ruler  a boost for its legitimacy at a turbulent time

Trong may not be able to have a meaningful meeting with Putin on Wednesday because of his ailing health but rising star To Lam, who is said to be particularly fond of Russia, will ensure a warm reception. Both Putin and Lam have a background in the communist security system.

Edited by Taejun Kang.
The center-right GERB party has won the latest Bulgarian elections, but no one, least of all the party's veteran leader, Boyko Borisov, is breaking out the champagne.

Despite winning the June 9 parliamentary elections with nearly 25 percent of the vote, the support for Borisov's party's is dwindling. Frequently accused of corruption and cronyism, GERB received just 530,000 votes, its weakest electoral performance in history.

There are now 68 GERB deputies in Bulgaria's 240-seat unicameral parliament, the National Assembly, one fewer than in the previous parliament and a far cry from the 100 seats it held during its strongest years. GERB is also shy of the 80 seats needed to block constitutional amendments or veto key appointments.

Borisov now finds himself in a precarious situation. He has already ruled himself out as a candidate for prime minister, saying he wanted to "calm the possibility of negotiations." His stance is not motivated by charity, however, but is simply an expression of the harsh fact that most major parties have declared that they will not back a government led by Borisov.

Murky Past

The 65-year-old politician, who has been prime minister three times since 2009, has been the most prominent and influential Bulgarian politician over the last decade and a half. While not particularly popular among Bulgarians, Borisov has always done just enough to keep his party in power.

A populist, he is a skilled political broker in Sofia and Brussels, doling out money and power to the extent that he has been accused of capturing Bulgaria's state institutions. Before coming to power, Borisov was a top police official, regularly appearing on TV to take on the bad guys -- despite accusations that he was linked to street gangs in the 1990s.

Under Borisov, Bulgaria fell lower in the Transparency International Corruption Index and the Reporters Without Borders free media index. Corruption remains pervasive and deep-rooted, with society at the mercy of influence by powerful oligarchs and the Kremlin.

The problem now -- and this is not a new problem -- is that GERB has a mandate from the country's president to form a government. Those negotiations are already under way and the party is trying to form a "cabinet of experts," with key ministers and a prime minister from GERB although not Borisov himself.

An obvious choice for GERB would be an alliance with the liberal Movement for Rights and Freedoms (DPS), which traditionally represents Bulgaria's ethnic Turk and Muslim populations. DPS has become the second-biggest party in parliament, with a record 47 seats, and has more political heft than ever before, making them indispensable for GERB.

The two parties do not have any significant ideological differences and have worked together in recent years, challenging the reformist We Continue the Change-Democratic Bulgaria (PP-DB) coalition and making joint pledges to voters.

The party's new co-leader, Delyan Peevski, a controversial media tycoon accused of corruption and influence peddling, has already thrown his hat into the ring, even before the final election results were announced. "Mr. Borisov, I expect an invitation from you and all the Euro-Atlantic leaders to start a conversation about the future of our Motherland," Peevski said on June 11.

Trying To Form A Government

For Bulgaria's main political parties, an alliance between GERB and DPS is a done deal. "You have a meeting with Boyko Borisov, and you are met by Delyan Peevski," former Prime Minister Nikolay Denkov recently quipped.

Borisov, however, is wary of the DPS and Peevski. For many Bulgarians, the DPS is seen as a political instrument of the mafia, with its founder, Ahmed Dogan, accused of being an agent for the communist secret police.

Such suspicions only deepened when Peevski, the most powerful oligarch in the country, became the party's leader this year. Even though Peevski is reportedly close to Borisov, the DPS leader is seen as too toxic a bedfellow due to the repeated allegations of corruption against him, which have led to U.S. and British sanctions.

But beggars can't be choosers, and Borisov's critics say he has burnt too many bridges. In the June 9 elections, the PP-DB coalition lost more than half of their voters and now have 39 seats in parliament. Some of the party's leaders have linked that implosion to the last PP-DB-led government under Prime Minister Denkov, which had the support of GERB.

The breakup of that last government has led to bad blood between GERB and PP-DB, with Borisov blaming the PP-DB for having to call early elections and PP-DB blaming Borisov, saying that he wanted to curtail their influence and was no longer complying with their demands for reform.

As a result, PP-DB has said it will not work with GERB to form a new government. The fourth-place finisher in the elections, the pro-Russian Revival party, with 38 seats, has said it will also remain in opposition.

For now, Bulgaria is being run by a caretaker government. If GERB fails to form a government, then the second-place party, the DPS, will be given a mandate by the president. In recent years, there have been governments formed on the second or third mandate.

Borisov has been here before. He has been politically isolated since the elections of April 2021, when he lost the prime minister's post. But his options now look more limited than ever. If he can't form a government, he would have to call early elections once again, and those would be Bulgaria's seventh in the last three years.
Welcome back to the China In Eurasia briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter tracking China's resurgent influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia.

I'm RFE/RL correspondent Reid Standish and here's what I'm following right now.

Beijing's Own Peace Strategy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy left a peace summit in Switzerland with a new commitment from 80 countries that Ukraine's "territorial integrity" would be the foundation of any peace deal to end the war with Russia.

But the final communique -- and the summit as a whole -- was dampened by a lack of backing from the Global South, most notably from China, which didn't send any representation to the gathering and is shopping its own peace initiative to developing countries.

Finding Perspective: Zelenskiy told reporters that representatives from 101 countries and international organizations, with more than 50 heads of state and government, mostly from Europe, were in attendance.

The Ukrainian president told my colleague Zoriana Stepanenko that he was satisfied with the result of the summit, but several countries in attendance -- such as Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates -- did not sign the final communique.

China didn't attend the summit because it said Russia wasn't invited and that both Kyiv and Moscow should be part of any peace talks. But ahead of the Swiss-hosted summit, Beijing had also been pushing its own rival initiative behind the scenes.

The move by China sparked some rare public criticism from Zelenskiy, who said in Singapore on June 2 that Russia and China were attempting to undermine the summit.

Zelenskiy's Good News: U.S. President Joe Biden did not attend the summit, but Vice President Kamala Harris did instead. While Biden's appearance would have lent some additional heft to the summit, he signed a 10-year bilateral security deal between Ukraine and the United States at the G7 summit before the meeting in Switzerland.

Zelenskiy's Bad News: The summit ended with overwhelming Western support for Ukraine, but it also highlighted the global divides when it comes to the war.

Chinese officials have been shopping alternative peace plans that are said to be more Russia-friendly for months, with Reuters reporting that "Beijing has told developing nations the meeting [in Switzerland] would prolong the war."

As I explained in this short video, all of this makes it much harder for China to portray itself as a neutral player when it comes to the war.

Why It Matters: China has been pursuing a wider strategy to position itself as the leader of the Global South in opposition to the U.S.-led Western bloc, and diplomacy around the war in Ukraine is the latest playing field.

China has been trying to enlist developing nations to join the six-point peace plan it issued with Brazil in May, with the proposal calling for 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."

The Kremlin endorsed the idea of China brokering peace and the Chinese foreign ministry said more than 100 countries had supported its proposal.

But the bigger question is whether Beijing is genuinely looking to broker peace or simply aiming to derail any Western-backed proposal in order to help out its partner, Russia.

As the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center's Alexander Gabuev wrote in Foreign Affairs ahead of the summit:

"China will therefore continue to be a stick-in-the-mud: indirectly helping Russia, derailing Kyiv-led diplomatic initiatives, and pretending to engage in diplomacy instead of genuinely trying to work with other parties to find a solution."

Three More Stories From Eurasia

1. How To Deal With China's Support For Russia?

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said China should face consequences for supporting Russia's war in Ukraine, if it does not change its ways.

The Details: "Beijing cannot have it both ways. At some point -- and unless China changes course -- allies need to impose a cost. There should be consequences," Stoltenberg said in Washington on June 17.

The comments from the NATO chief add to a growing chorus of high-level Western officials in recent months more openly criticizing China's support for Russia, with Beijing supplying some 90 percent of high-value dual-use goods to Russia in the last year.

How to impose those consequences, however, is hardly straightforward.

At the recent G7 summit in Italy, the group of wealthy democracies discussed going after small Chinese banks.

Worried about being targeted by U.S. secondary sanctions, China's big banks have begun to limit their cross-border transactions involving Russia and Russian firms. Instead, smaller banks that are difficult to track and have less exposure to the international financial system have become the main channel.

Targeting Chinese institutions generally poses contagion risks due to their connection to the broader global financial system, but going after smaller banks is tough as they are by design insulated from the very Western institutions that give Brussels and Washington the economic leverage they're trying to wield.

"This is what I call the 'burner bank' strategy," Tom Keatinge, director of the Center for Financial Crime and Security Studies at the Royal United Services Institute, told me. "If the United States or other G7 countries sanction these banks, there is likely to be very limited contagion and the impact on the bank will likewise be limited as the bank has no need for access to the international banking system."

2. The Other Export Model

Is China actively looking to export its authoritarian model abroad? A new batch of previously unexamined Chinese government documents seems to indicate yes.

What It Means: Niva Yau, a nonresident fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global China Hub, came across a trove of 1,691 files from China's Commerce Ministry that were logged online in 2021 and 2022.

The dataset describes 795 governmental programs made up of trainings and exchanges with foreign officials that the documents state are designed to promote ideas and practices from China's economic and political model among countries in Eastern Europe and the Latin American, African, and Asian countries that make up the so-called Global South.

Chinese officials have repeatedly said Beijing isn't exporting its authoritarian system for governing, but the collection of government files add to an emerging body of evidence showing that China is trying to sell the merits of its model to officials across the Global South while also developing new initiatives and practical programs to speed up their adoption.

"This is real evidence to support what has been becoming a growing belief among the expert community," Yau told me. "We can now demonstrate in China's own words from its internal planning documents what it is trying to do."

3. China Looks To Revamp Central Asian Trade

After years of discussions and delays, the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, which could change how Central Asian countries trade with each other, took a major step forward with Kyrgyzstan announcing it will take out a large Chinese loan to build it, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reports.

What You Need To Know: Azamat Sakiev, director of Kyrgyz Railways, told the country's parliament on June 19 that the expenses for constructing the Kyrgyz section of the railroad are estimated at $4.7 billion in total.

Sakiev said the Chinese loan will cover 51 percent of the project while Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan will each provide 24.5 percent of the costs. Beijing will provide its loan to the Joint Design Company, a new holding company to be operated by all three countries building the railway.

Sakiev, during his public comments, added that the specifics about the terms and amount of interest on the loan are yet to be finalized.

Once completed, the railway could provide another key link for overland trade between Europe and China while adding an important artery for Central Asia, one of the world's least connected regions.

Across The Supercontinent

Climate Pressure: Kazakhstan's Lake Balkhash faces growing ecological strain in the form of climate change and China's rising demand for water upstream, as well as government plans for a nearby nuclear power plant, Maqpal Mukankyzy and Chris Rickleton report.

A Tougher Brussels: Former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said the European Union must become less "passive" in defending its economic interests against the threat of countries such as China that have "unfair advantages."

A 'More Aggressive' Cyberspace: Brad Smith, vice chairman and president of U.S. tech giant Microsoft, warned in a statement to a U.S. Congressional committee that closer cooperation between Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran on the geopolitical stage could be replicated in cyberspace, my colleague Todd Prince reports.

A Rare Visit: Senior EU diplomats have visited schools, religious sites, and a prison in Tibet as part of a dialogue with China about human rights, the Irish Times reports.

One Thing To Watch

It looks like the EU may be drifting into a trade war with China. After the bloc slapped Beijing with new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), China announced an anti-dumping probe against EU pork and by-products.

The move is expected to target France, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands particularly hard, which EU officials believe have been chosen as they are seen as the countries that pushed for the EV tariffs, Politico reported.

That's all from me for now. Don't forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you might have.

Until next time,

Reid Standish

If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your inbox every other Wednesday.
Rehabilitation, compensation, and, perhaps more importantly, the satisfaction that justice has been served. For survivors of wartime sexualized violence worldwide those are the essential aims of any reparations program. However, aims don't always match outcomes. Survivors rarely receive comprehensive reparations. Instead, they often spend years in courtrooms, seeking at least some form of justice, while their attackers -- and the states they were representing -- often evade accountability. On the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, RFE/RL tells the stories of survivors from Bosnia-Herzegovina, Ukraine, Kosovo, Chechnya, and Afghanistan and their personal struggles to seek justice. Ukraine: 'I Want To See Them Punished'

Human rights activist Lyudmyla Huseynova, a survivor of wartime sexualized violence, is now one of the leading voices advocating for the rights of survivors in Ukraine. Since 2014, when Russia seized control of Crimea and began backing separatists in the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, she has also been helping orphans living near the front lines. It was in the Donetsk region in 2019 that she was abducted by separatists. Falsely accused of espionage and extremism, Huseynova was brought to the infamous Izolyatsia prison in the city of Donetsk. The Russian military and separatists in charge of the prison routinely subjected those under their control to physical and psychological abuse and torture, including of Huseynova, who said she suffered torture and sexualized violence. "For example, everyone, just everyone, went through forced stripping at Izolyatsia, that's for sure," she recalled. "And then -- it's impossible to say who was or wasn't lucky, because it will sound cynical -- then there were many women who survived [sexualized violence]. The militants blackmailed some women, so to speak, with the chance of seeing or speaking to their children. It's so cynical and so disgusting." In 2022, she was released as part of an all-female prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, along with 107 other women. Now, Huseynova is fighting for reparations and punishment for the rapists, not only in her own case but in those of other survivors. After her release, she filed a case against Russia both with Ukrainian prosecutors and at the Strasbourg-based European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). "One of my personal hopes is to see them punished. I was so happy when I received confirmation that my complaint had been accepted for consideration by the [ECHR] court. And there it says [on the document]: Huseynova Vs. Russia," Huseynova said. "In it, I documented everything that happened to me: the illegal detention, the inhumane conditions, and the instances of sexualized violence, as well as the total lack of any medical care."

In April 2024, Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian parliament commissioner for human rights, announced the launch of an interim program to compensate the wartime survivors of sexualized violence at the hands of the Russian Army. According to a statement, up to 500 survivors will receive onetime compensation of 3,000 euros ($3,200) and additional psychological assistance from the Global Survivors Fund, a survivors-focused NGO administering the program. "Reparations to survivors of gross human rights violations, especially victims of conflict-related sexual violence, are not limited to economic support. It is an important step toward establishing justice," Ukrainian first lady Olena Zelenska said in early March while discussing the program. Alongside this, Ukrainian authorities are seeking full reparations from Russia, according to Iryna Didenko, who heads the department of the Prosecutor-General's Office handling cases of war-related sexual violence. "We are collecting evidence for the international courts mostly. Our survivors are ready to go and testify in another country. This is what we are trying to achieve in all possible ways," Didenko told RFE/RL. Didenko's office has documented nearly 300 cases of sexualized violence committed by invading Russian forces since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, although the true number is feared to be much higher and growing. Survivors of sexualized violence are also seeking other forms of compensation from Russia as well, says Khrystyna Kit, director of Ukrainian female lawyers association JurFem. "We are also talking about other forms of reparations, in line with international law," Kit said. Igor Cvetkovski, a specialist from the UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) who is currently working in Ukraine, says reparations can include "psychosocial support" and "vocational training," along with "helping children born from rape." Given the fact that many survivors of sexualized violence may not come forward, it is important that they have the option to seek help and justice even decades later, Cvetkovski says. Bosnia-Herzegovina: Not Paying Up

Ms. A, as she was referred to in court documents, was sexually assaulted near Sarajevo in 1993 in an area controlled by ethnic Serb forces. She was 32 at the time of the attack and has been waiting nearly as many years for compensation. She came closer to finding justice in 2015, when her attacker was found guilty in a Bosnian court of wartime rape and sentenced to eight years in prison. He was also ordered to pay his victim the equivalent of some $16,000 but has not yet paid, claiming he did not have the money. Four years later, Ms. A also appealed to the UN Committee Against Torture, which issued a recommendation in 2019 that Bosnia-Herzegovina compensate her instead. But that too has not happened. Nearly 30 years after the end of the war in Bosnia, survivors of wartime sexual violence are still struggling to access the assistance and protection they need. "The working group [in Bosnia] appointed to implement the decision and create a strategic plan of measures for implementation was truly dysfunctional," said Ms. A's lawyer, Ajna Mahmic, who works with Trial International, a Geneva-based NGO that helps victims and seeks justice for international crimes. During the Bosnian War, which lasted from 1992 to 1995, it is estimated that between 20,000 and 50,000 women, girls, and men were raped. Many of them never received proper medical and psychological care or financial support. Bosnia does not have a countrywide law to support victims of war, including those who have suffered sexual violence. Thirty-two individuals were convicted for crimes of sexual violence by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), which ceased functioning in December 2017. Since then, more than 90 convictions on sexual-violence charges have been handed down by local courts. In some cases, perpetrators were obliged to pay compensation ranging from $8,200 to $33,000. While across the former Yugoslavia efforts have been made to bring perpetrators of wartime sexual violence to justice, their victims have largely been forgotten, Cvetkovski says. "There has been no regional reparations program, nor an adequate national reparations program -- except for laws in Croatia and Kosovo, and some efforts in Bosnia-Herzegovina," Cvetkovski told RFE/RL. "However, there has been no comprehensive approach to reparations for victims of sexual violence or any other type of victims." In its findings, the UN Committee Against Torture also recommended that Bosnia create a fund to compensate all wartime victims of sexual crimes, a system of psychological support, as well as issue a public apology. However, since the UN recommendations were made five years ago, a working group has been created but made little progress. Jasna Zecevic, the president of Vive Zene, a Bosnian NGO that provides comprehensive support for rape victims, says that survivors are still struggling to receive compensation for their suffering. Those efforts are hampered by Bosnia's complicated administrative system, with separate applicable laws for each of the country's three entities: the Federation of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Republika Srpska, and the Brcko District. Those differences in legislation have led to uneven access to rights, according to Trial International, as well as varying compensation awards. Depending on where they live, survivors of sexual violence in Bosnia can receive monthly compensation as low as the equivalent of $75 or as much as the equivalent of $373. Progress on the issue is slow, according to Cvetkovski, not because of a lack of funds but more a lack of political will. Kosovo: Delayed Justice Is Denied Justice

Since 2023, April 14 has been observed in Kosovo as the Day of Sexual Violence Victims who suffered during the 1998-99 Kosovo War, where Serbian forces terrorized the ethnic Albanian population. While the number of sexual-violence survivors from the conflict remains unknown, a report by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention puts the figure as high as 20,000 people. This day, Kosovar officials say, serves to "recognize the pain" of all survivors of sexual violence during the war and to contribute to collective memory. Kosovo has taken some steps to help survivors. In 2018, Kosovo instituted a reparations system, paying victims of wartime sexual violence the equivalent of $245 a month. But advocates say this falls short of what those affected need. "While survivors of sexual violence are eligible to receive this monthly payment as...recognition of their suffering during wartime as rape victims, it ruled out them receiving old-age pensions," said Feride Rushiti, executive director of the Kosovo Rehabilitation Center for Torture Survivors (KRCT), a Kosovar NGO providing aid and support to survivors of sexual violence.

However, just recently, the Basic Court of Pristina, Kosovo's top judicial body, ruled in favor of three survivors of sexual violence, awarding them not only compensation but a pension as well, Rusiti says. Fitorja (not her real name) had her status confirmed as a victim of a war crime, entitling her to a monthly payment of the equivalent of 230 euros. She was already receiving a lower standard pension, but she gave that up after the government informed her that she was entitled to just one pension. Since 2021, with the help of KRCT, she has been fighting to keep her pension and the monthly payment. "The stress and waiting destroy you. [The termination of one pension] should not have happened," the 71-year-old Fitorja said. The court's ruling in her favor, along with two other survivors, was a partial victory. Another seven similar cases are now going through the judicial system. Chechnya: Living In The Shadows In 2000, Russian Army Colonel Yury Budanov, together with two of his subordinates, kidnapped and later strangled 18-year-old Elza Kungayeva, a resident of the Tangi-Chu village in Chechnya. During his trial in 2003, the colonel, who was part of the Russian force fighting separatists in the republic, was sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of murder, kidnapping, and abuse of power. He was stripped of his rank and ordered to pay the family 330,000 rubles (about $11,000 at the 2003 exchange rate). Budanov was released from prison on parole in 2009, yet Kungayeva's family got nothing from the ex-army colonel, who was assassinated in 2011, and they have also not received anything from the state. In Chechnya, that is a familiar story. Following the conflicts of the 1990s and 2000s, thousands of people who suffered war crimes or who lost their homes and families are still waiting for compensation from the authorities. The exact number of sexualized-violence survivors during both wars is unknown, largely due to a reluctance to report such crimes in Chechnya due to social stigma and the overall distrust of the authorities. The Kungayeva's family lawyers insisted on including two reports from independent forensic experts that confirmed that Kungayeva was raped. The rape charges, however, were eventually excluded from the indictment. Afghanistan: Silence And Stigma
U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the need for a diplomatic arrangement for the return of both Lebanese and Israeli civilians to their homes on both sides of the Israeli-Lebanese border in a call on October 9 with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the White House said.

Biden also condemned Irans ballistic missile attack against Israel on October 1, a White House statement said.

Biden "affirmed Israels right to protect its citizens from Hezbollah, which has fired thousands of missiles and rockets into Israel over the past year alone, while emphasizing the need to minimize harm to civilians, in particular in the densely populated areas of Beirut," the statement said.

Biden spoke with Netanyahu earlier about Israel's plans to retaliate against Iran for a missile attack last week, according to statements from both the White House and the Israeli prime minister's office on October 9.

The White House statement said Biden and Netanyahu "agreed to remain in close contact over the coming days both directly and through their national security teams."

The call comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, an armed group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon.

The Middle East has been on edge awaiting Israel's expected response to Iran's largely ineffective missile attack, which Tehran carried out in retaliation for Israel's escalation in Lebanon, including the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said in a video published on Israeli media that Israel's response "will be deadly, precise, and above all surprising."

Biden last week said he would not support Israel striking Iranian nuclear sites as part of its retaliation. He also said that, if he were in Israel's shoes, he would think about alternatives to striking Iranian oil fields.

Israel has faced calls by the United States and other allies to accept a cease-fire deal in Gaza and Lebanon but has said it will continue its military operations until Israelis are safe.

U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller warned on October 9 that Israel must avoid conducting military operations in Lebanon like those it has conducted in Gaza.

"I'm making very clear that there should be no kind of military action in Lebanon that looks anything like Gaza and leaves a result anything like Gaza," Miller told journalists.

The White House statement said Biden and Netanyahu discussed the urgent need to renew diplomacy to release the hostages held by Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and the EU. Biden also discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the White House said.

Israels bombardment of central and northern Gaza in recent days has killed dozens of people and trapped thousands in their homes, Palestinian officials said.

Hezbollah, a group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon, is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, while the European Union blacklists its armed wing but not its party, which has seats in the Lebanese parliament.

The call between Biden and Netanyahu took place as Israeli forces stepped up their ground offensive against Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon.

On October 9, Hezbollah said in a statement that its fighters had used artillery and rockets against Israeli troops near the Lebanese border village of Labbouneh.

In a separate statement, the group said it engaged in combat with Israeli forces as they "attempted to infiltrate the border town of Blida" in southeast Lebanon.

The Israeli Army said early on October 9 that it had intercepted two projectiles fired from Lebanon as air-raid alarms sounded in and around Caesarea, a coastal city south of Haifa.

The latest fighting comes as fears grow of a larger conflict in the region after Israel also claimed that the successor to Nasrallah has likely been "eliminated."



Gallant said on October 8 that Hezbollah was an "organization without a head" and there's no one left to make decisions.

Netanyahu later echoed those comments, saying, "We've degraded Hezbollah's capabilities."



"We took out thousands of terrorists, including Nasrallah himself and Nasrallah's replacement, and the replacement of the replacement," Netanyahu said.

Hashem Safieddine, a top Hezbollah official and a cousin of Nasrallah, was widely expected to be named to the group's top position, but his whereabouts and condition remain unknown since an October 2 Israeli strike on a suspected Hezbollah leadership meeting.



Hezbollah has not commented on Safieddine's fate, although unidentified members have told various media that the group had lost contact with him since the attack.



Safieddine has been declared a global terrorist by the United States.
The Kyiv shooting of an opposition activist and journalist from Kazakhstan, Aidos Sadyqov, was no random street crime, according to his wife. Natalya Sadyqova was in the car when a shooter fired on him on June 18, and said the attack was an attempt to silence criticism of the Kazakh government. Ukraine's National Police said they were on the lookout for the assailant, who fired on the vehicle and then fled. Sadyqova believes the attack was related to reporting she and Sadyqov have done on Russian influence in Kazakhstan.
Hundreds of people gathered in Pakistan's Khyber tribal district on June 19 for the funeral of journalist Khalil Afridi, who was gunned down a day earlier in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. No one has claimed responsibility for the attack but Afridi's family said he had faced harassment and death threats. Mourners called on authorities to do more to protect journalists, with at least three deadly attacks in Pakistan over the past year according to domestic and international media watchdogs. The government insists media in the country can operate freely and that a law on the protection of journalists was passed in 2021.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a "comprehensive strategic partnership" on June 19 during the Russian president's first visit in 24 years to the secretive one-party state.

The agreement calls for mutual assistance in the event of an attack by a third country and is intended to take cooperation between the two states to a new level.

Kim said the agreement ushers in a new era, adding that their cooperation on political, military, economic, and other issues is peaceful and aimed at defending the interests of both states.

"I have no doubt that it will become a driving force in the accelerated development of a new multipolar world," Kim said.

A senior adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said after the agreement was signed that North Korea was helping Russia kill Ukrainian civilians.

"There is no doubt that North Korea is actively cooperating with Russia in the military sphere today and deliberately provides resources for the mass murder of Ukrainians," Mykhaylo Podolyak told the AFP new agency. He called for greater international isolation of both countries.

Putin expressed gratitude for Pyongyang's "unwavering support" at the start of a summit with North Korea's Kim that began with a red-carpet welcome on June 19 as the two fiercely anti-Western leaders sought ways to boost cooperation.

The Russian president's visit came as Moscow wages its prolonged war in Ukraine and both countries grapple with Western sanctions punishing aggression or, in Pyongyang's case, rogue nuclear and other weapons programs.

The two leaders -- both of whom have become further isolated on the international stage as their relationship deepens -- exchanged platitudes before signing the new partnership agreement amid accusations that North Korea is supplying Moscow with weapons and ammunition for its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

As analysts pored over the agreement for signs that the two countries were codifying their warming relations, Putin criticized international sanctions on Pyongyang for its nuclear and missile development programs, calling them "illegitimate" and "politically motivated."

In turn, Kim pledged his country's "full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army, and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests, and territorial integrity." He did not elaborate.

Moscow has banned the term "war" for what it terms a "special military operation" in reference to its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine or the occupation and illegal annexation of Crimea alongside support for armed separatism in eastern Ukraine that began in 2014.

Multiple votes in the United Nations have expressed support for Ukrainian territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, including Crimea and four eastern regions that abut Russia.

Before arriving, Putin said he appreciated North Koreas firm support of his military actions in Ukraine, according to an op-ed piece that appeared in North Korean state media on June 18.

Their countries will continue to "resolutely oppose" what Putin described as Western ambitions "to hinder the establishment of a multipolar world order based on justice, mutual respect for sovereignty, considering each other's interests."

The United States and its allies have accused North Korea of violating UN Security Council resolutions by supplying Russia with arms, including ballistic missiles, to use in Ukraine.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a joint press briefing with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on June 18 that Russia's war in Ukraine was being propped up by North Korea, China, and Iran.

NATO countries are also "concerned about the potential support that Russia provides to North Korea when it comes to supporting their missile and nuclear programs," Stoltenberg said.

From Pyongyang, Putin traveled on to Vietnam for talks that are expected to be focused on trade. Putin praised Vietnam for its "balanced" stance on the Ukraine war and listed progress on payments, energy, and trade in an opinion piece published on on June 19 in the newspaper of Vietnam's Communist Party.

The United States, which has spent years strengthening ties and accelerating trade with Vietnam, criticized Putin's planned visit.

A U.S. Embassy spokesperson in Vietnam said "no country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities."

With reporting by Reuters, AFP, and dpa
As expressions of concern and outrage pile up over the possible fate of Belarusian journalist and regime critic Andrey Hnyot (aka Andrew Gnyot), the 42-year-old exile remains in legal limbo in an extradition battle, he says, to save my life.

Hnyot remains as active as his ankle-braceleted confinement to a modest, 20-square-meter apartment in Serbias capital allows, while his lawyers appeal a Belgrade High Court ruling from June 13 that would send him back to Belarus's authoritarian rulers.

In his first interview since his transfer on June 5 from seven months in a Serbian jail cell to home incarceration, Hnyot told RFE/RLs Balkan Service that he now works from morning to night" on his defense.

The prospect of a forced return -- Hnyot, rights groups, and the European Union agree -- is enough to terrify and motivate even the hardiest champions of democracy, free speech, and the rule of law.

Since Hnyot participated in unprecedented protests after the disputed 2020 vote in which Alyaksandr Lukashenka claimed an improbable 80 percent of the vote and a sixth term as Belaruss president, Europes longest-reigning leader has overseen a crackdown that has left thousands of political opponents missing, fleeing, or in prison.

Torture, blood, nightmare, is how Hnyot describes the regime in his homeland, which he fled soon after the protests to seek safe shelter in Thailand.

He dismisses the accusations of tax fraud at the center of an arrest warrant issued from Minsk via the International Criminal Police Organization, known as Interpol, as ridiculous, nonsense.

Officials in Serbia arrested Hnyot upon his arrival at Belgrade airport on October 30 on the basis of that warrant and locked him up in isolation at the citys central prison.

A court of first instance green-lighted his deportation to Belarus in December, but an appellate court overturned that decision and ordered a new hearing that eventually led to the High Courts decision earlier this month to extradite him.

Hnyots case has heightened international scrutiny on Moscows allies in Serbia as the Kremlin seeks diplomatic and other support from Belgrade to ease the economic and diplomatic isolation brought on by its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

It also highlights longstanding criticism of Interpol and whether its system of issuing warrants based on claims by authoritarian regimes furthers its stated goal of uniting disparate law enforcement organizations to make the world a safer place.

The European Union responded to the latest extradition ruling with a blistering warning for authorities in EU candidate Serbia.

There are sufficient grounds to believe that the arrest warrant against Mr. Hnyot was motivated by political reasons, and that he would face political repression and ill-treatment if he were to be extradited to Belarus, EU spokesman Peter Stano told RFE/RL in a statement.

The specter of becoming an accessory to authoritarian-style persecution has already tested notions of justice inside the European Union itself.

Moscow has so far failed in its efforts to squeeze member states like Bulgaria to repatriate critics of Putins war.

The EU is following the Serbian case with concern, Stano said, adding, We expect that Mr. Hnyots case will be carefully examined in accordance with international human rights law and EU standards, and we continue to call for his release.

The U.S. Embassy in Belgrade would say only that it is monitoring the case.

This is an ongoing judicial process, and the Embassy is closely following it, it said in a written statement earlier this month. Embassy spokespeople did not answer repeated telephone calls seeking additional comment on June 19.

Neither the EU nor the United States recognize Lukashenkas legitimacy since the 2020 election seen by the opposition and many Western nations as having been "rigged, and the subsequent brutal crackdown he launched against any and all dissent.

Interpol did not respond to multiple RFE/RL requests via official channels for comment on its practices, Hnyots case, and the reliability of accusations from a repressive regime like Belarus, which has been accused of hijacking an international flight to capture a dissident and weaponizing third-country migrants against its EU neighbors.

It has previously responded to criticism of its use of red notices and other international alerts to track down fugitives from dubious charges by bad-faith regimes as their numbers have skyrocketed by highlighting its collaborative, membership structure. Its Lyon-based leadership has previously acknowledged that its not a perfect system.

Interpol told RFE/RL in February that all requests sent by the National Central Bureau in Minsk are carefully reviewed to ensure compliance with Interpol rules and procedures.

But it has produced no public findings from an investigation it was said to have launched into Hnyots arrest and possible extradition from Serbia.

It looks like nobody is listening to me, Hnyot told RFE/RL after the Serbian High Courts June 13 decision in favor of extradition, which he called empty and formal.

He said the court dismissed his defense arguments as opinion and was overly deferential to an extradition agreement concluded between Serbia and Belarus in 2019.

But free-speech and free-press groups including the International Press Institute, the European Federation of Journalists, and the banned Belarusian Association of Journalists have all raised their voices to call for Hnyots release.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) reiterated its concern over the case with a fresh appeal on June 18, saying Serbias courts must not indulge a request from Belarusian authorities and should overturn the Belgrade High Courts decision.

CPJ Program Director Carlos Martinez de la Serna called the Belarusian request absurd and unfounded and demanded Belarusian authorities stop their attempts to instrumentalize Interpol to transnationally repress dissenting voices.

Serbian authorities are allowed to detain individuals for up to one year in extradition cases.

As Hnyot and his defense team organize his appeal, he remains confined to the rented apartment that he found with the help of his lawyers. His only escape is the allowed hours walk to shop for food and other essentials that he said people normally take for granted.

He uses his smartphone and laptop to communicate with his family, human rights groups, ambassadors, activists, and journalists.

On the day of the RFE/RL correspondents visit, June 14, Hnyot said he spoke for the first time with exiled Belarusian opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, to whom he had written from jail.

Tsikhanouskaya is herself the target of a Belarusian warrant that Moscow says extends to Russia by virtue of bilateral agreements with Minsk, and he said she responded by personally advocating for his case.

Hnyot said they spoke not about politics or his case but rather talked as friends. That gave me a lot of energy, he said.

House arrest is a step up from prison, he said, even if he still has no family members in Belgrade to come visit him.

Everything can be good and everything can look good and normal after prison, he told RFE/RL. When youve been in hell, everything that comes after it is better than hell.

Written by Andy Heil in Prague based on reporting by RFE/RL Balkan Service correspondent Nevena Bogdanovic and RFE/RL's Balkan Service in Belgrade
Two Ballaghaderreen brothers will this weekend Chase the Sun in memory of their mother who lost her brave battle with cancer in May.

James and David Kilcullen are nearing the end of a month-long training plan to complete the 209-mile cycle on Saturday in memory of their mother, Mabel.

On Saturday, June 22nd cyclists from several countries will complete the Chase the Sun challenge run by UK based Macmillan Cancer Support. The 209-mile cycle is held annually in the month of June.

In Ireland the cycle will start at sunrise in Belfast and finish in Enniscrone, County Sligo.

James Kilcullen, a former Sligo player, is being joined in the challenge by his brother David, and several friends from Ballaghaderreen to Tyrone.

James, who now lives Armagh with his wife Noeleen, spoke about how he and his family are coping with the loss of their mother, who sadly lost her battle with cancer in May. It was expected from the diagnosis, but it still doesnt make it any easier. I suppose we had time to prepare ourselves and to take each day as it comes, James told the Roscommon Herald.

The Kilcullen family. James and David will this weekend Chase the Sun in memory of their mother who lost her brave battle with cancer in May.

Mabel and her husband Paddy Joe were originally from Dromard, County Sligo but later moved to Ballaghaderreen because of Paddy Joes job with An Garda Siochana. She was working in Ballymote in a nursing home when she received the diagnosis in April of last year and began receiving chemotherapy treatment at Sligo University Hospital.

Louise and Karen, James and Davids sisters, took care of their mother as they lived close to her. In December Mabel made the decision to come off chemotherapy and was treated by the community nurse while remaining in close contact with the Hospice team.

Mabel did not let her cancer diagnosis stop her everyday life, going for walks and meeting her friends, but later moved into palliative care with the North West Hospice, sadly passing away on May 12th last.

James, who works as a maintenance technician, had been training for the cycle before his mothers passing, but her passing gave him new found motivation to complete the challenge.

The training plan was given out when I signed up for the cycle. Being a father of three, it was hard to stick to that plan, but I tried to get out as much as I could, just trying to get as many miles in as possible over the last three to four months, he said.

He added that remaining active in the days and weeks following his mothers death helped him during the grieving process.

I wouldnt be one to sit around and mope, and my mother wouldnt want that. You get on with it as much as you can, Ive always been active, so it comes naturally enough. The period there when mam was in the hospice, the regime was gone, your life is just put on hold for a while. When you have a target like the cycle youre looking forward to, it gives you a reason to get back on the bike, he said.

The cycle will have a particularly sentimental finish for the Kilcullen brothers, as the end of the route will pass their mothers road where she was raised.

The cycle route passes the end of the road where she grew, its ironic. Well be tired at that stage, but it will give us a lift, he said.

James had originally setup a GoFundMe for his mother but changed the goal of the page for his friend Nial Kane from Meath, who was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Nial recently received positive news on his diagnosis. Hes got the all clear. Thats two sides to the story there, Nial getting all clear and mam passing away, so its bittersweet.

You can donate to James GoFundMe through the Give what you can page on GoFundMe.ie.
The greatest gift we can give anyone is our ear, just to listen, proud Rossie and barber Paddy Joe Burke told a gathering last week.

Paddy Joe was among several special guest speakers who took part in an event at Kilbride Community Centre to mark National Mens Health Week.

Hosted by Roscommon Leader Partnership in partnership with HSE Community Healthcare West, the evening was aimed at providing individuals and families in County Roscommon and surrounding areas with information and awareness to promote better health among men.

Addressing the large gathering on Wednesday of last week, Mr Burke, who was recently appointed an Age Friendly Ambassador for Roscommon, said he was privileged and honoured to be a barber for 52 two years in the greatest city in the world.

I met the most wonderful people - the knowledge, the information, sometimes the sadness of the men in the chair, he said.

Highlighting the importance of mental health for both young and old, he gave several examples of customers who had reached out to him for help. He spoke about them being afraid and having no one to turn to for help.

You know, when you are a barber, you get very good at detecting body language. We have beautiful, flowery language to describe things when we are not feeling well. Ive no energy. I'm very tired. It's a heavy evening.

We'd say everything except I'm depressed and Im in bad form. There's nothing wrong about having a bad day, he stressed.

Mr Burke said the greatest gift we could give anyone, all of us, is our ear, just to listen. Allow people to talk and tonight, it's lovely to see everyone but what about the people that are not here who are struggling this evening, he said.

Before concluding his address, Mr Burke asked everyone to buy an apple tart. Can I just say to all of us can we get an apple tart, and call to someone that we love, someone that was first good to us when we were kids, someone who is living alone. Buy the apple tart, call to them, make them a cup of tea and don't be buying flowers for them when they're dead.

Have a slice of the apple tart and just sit and listen and talk. Interaction is the best antidepressant for all of us, he said.

During the evening, Laura Tully, founder and facilitator of the hugely successful Fit Farmers Programme delivered an informative talk on specific practical tips for men to promote healthier lifestyles.

Motivational speaker and former rugby player Fergus Farrell also gave a very powerful talk about his own incredible journey in overcoming his personal battle with traumatic spinal injury.

The other main speaker on the night was Adam Woods, Deputy Editor of the Irish Farmers Journal, who spoke about the challenges and opportunities for people living in rural Ireland.

Other speakers on the night included Laurence Gaughan, HSE Health and Wellbeing, Community Healthcare West; Ronan Bilbow, Social Prescribing Link Worker, and Caroline Dermody from Croi, The West of Ireland Cardiac Foundation.

There were numerous information stands at the event, and attendees also had the opportunity to get their blood pressure checked.

The highly acclaimed Roscommon Mens Choir closed out the evening with a repertoire of uplifting songs.

*MC on the night was Roscommon Herald Deputy Editor, Richard Canny.
Five years ago, Luke 'Ming' Flanagan's late father, Luke senior, was at the Castlebar count centre to celebrate his sons previous European election victory but he sadly passed away in September 2022.

His fathers absence was very much to the forefront of his mind when he recently secured his European Parliament seat for a third successive time.

Speaking to the Roscommon Herald recently after the conclusion of the count in Castlebar, he said: As the election unfolded and after each night's debates and after each different thing happened, you know, the thought does enter your head: I'll ring my father, and then the penny drops.

You can't ring them and it just shows you how final death is and how important these people are. But so we were certainly thinking about him last night (after being elected). I'm sure he's smiling down and I'm sure he's delighted."

As the Castlerea native savoured another impressive European Parliament election victory, topping the poll and comfortably retaining his seat for a third successive time, the Castlerea native was also making headlines with hints of a presidential bid.

Firstly, his election win in the Midlands-Northwest has now firmly consolidated his position as a seasoned politician in the corridors of Brussels. With a poll topping vote of 78,214, he was the first of the five MEPs elected in the constituency after exceeding the quota of 113,325 with a total vote of 118,754.

The first preference vote was very, very satisfying but equally satisfying was to see the transfer that I got. Regardless of what the party was I seemed to get big numbers.

It was particularly satisfying to say that there is an appeal there across a variety of different political fields, so I'm over the moon. To reach the quota was also very satisfying, and ending up on 118,000 votes, which is roughly what I got in first preferences in 2014. So the supporter base is out there, he said.

That talk of a solid support base brings us to his comments during the count about a desire to run for the Irish presidency. Further reflections make it clear that he has given it some consideration in advance of the current incumbent in the Aras, Michael D. Higgins, completing his second five-year term at the end of next year.

I've managed to succeed at local, national and European level, and in the European election campaign, I campaigned in 15 counties. I came out top of the pile, and you're talking about over half the land mass of the country.

So if I run for a presidential election from an organisational point of view, we're only talking another eleven counties and it's not beyond me to organise something like that. And it's not beyond me to be able to put together a campaign that could be successful, so we'll rule nothing out, he said.

Its also not lost on the newly elected MEP that his local town has a special history when it comes to the Irish Presidency.

The first President of Ireland was a Castlerea man (Douglas Hyde) so we might get a Castlerea man in the next time. Anything is possible and I have proved that.

Ill look at how things will develop over the next year and see who throws their hat in the ring.

"But my priority at the moment is looking at what's going to come down the line when it comes to proposals on the new common agricultural policy, and continuing on with my job there, he said.
Bell X1, Damien Dempsey, Gemma Hayes, Ash, The Undertones, Mick Flannery, Morgana and Cork group, The Frank and Walters are among the household names taking to the stage at this years Night and Day Festival.

The festival returns to Boyle on Friday, June 28th to Sunday, June 30th inclusive. The festival, now in its third year, will once again take place in the surrounds of Lough Key Forest Park.

One of the major acts to perform at this years festival is Beatles tribute band The Mersey Beatles. The group is universally recognised as the definitive Beatles tribute experience and sold out the last Dublin show in the Olympia Theatre.

The group takes to the main stage on the Friday. Tickets for the opening day are 50 with the Mersey Beatles playing a full two hour show accompanied by a spectacular visual display, which will arguably be one of the highlights of the festival.

The festival is a strictly over 20s event, but those under 14 can enter for free when accompanied by an adult.

There is a full family friendly itinerary to keep the children entertained, including immersive circus performances, musical workshops and cultural exhibitions, making Night and Day one of the most family friendly festivals taking place this year.

As well as featuring top quality Irish and international acts, this years festival will also showcase new and emerging performers as well as local groups, playing to enthusiastic lovers of music over the three days of the festival.

Two such groups are Ballaghaderreen act Death Milkshake a musical creation of Wes Pollington from Willowbrook Glamping and Grooveline from Carrick on Shannon, an up and coming young band.

Craig Hughes, one of the main festival promoters says ticket demand has been unprecedented ahead of the festival. He is advising those who wish to attend and who have yet to purchase tickets to do so right away. Were delighted with the reaction to this years Night and Day Festival. Demand for weekend camping, weekend and day tickets has been immense, particularly in recent weeks with only a limited number of tickets remaining. This year promises to be our best ever festival and were delighted with the reaction to date.

Once again, this years festival features a top class line-up of artists, who have enjoyed national and global success. Many of the acts performing enjoyed success over four decades and were delighted to have such a line-up of acts.

As with an outdoor festival of this nature, we would urge those attending to come well prepared, particularly for the Irish weather! We would also urge concert goers to allow themselves plenty of time when travelling to event and familiarise themselves with the concert schedule.

Conscious of our responsibilities as an environmentally friendly event, we are also urging concert goers to minimise their carbon footprint by availing of public transport and to use our facilities in a responsible manner, leaving no trace and appropriately using bins and waste facilities provided.

The unique setting of Lough Key Forest Park will provide a great sense of occasion for the weekend, providing a quality, comfortable experience for those visiting. Wed like to acknowledge the support of our partners and the wider community of Boyle for their loyal and generous support, said Craig.

Tickets are currently on sale by visiting www.nightandday.ie.

Night and Day Music Festival is supported by Roscommon County Council, in association with Coillte, Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, Newstalk Radio, Extra.ie, Lough Key Distillery, Cancer Fund for Children, The White Hag Brewing Company and Well.Cand Water.
Delhi Liqour Policy Case: Arvind Kejriwals Custody extended till July 3

lhi ChiMinister Arvind Kejriwal was taken into custody on 21 March 2024 at approximately 9:00 pm IST

Delhi Liqour Policy Case, Arvind Kejriwals Custody extended news: In a major development, the Delhi Court has extended the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal till July 3.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was taken into custody on 21 March 2024 at approximately 9:00 pm IST after ignoring nine summons from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) related to the Delhi liquor scam, making him the first sitting chief minister in Indian history to be arrested.

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Notably, the Supreme Court of India granted Kejriwal interim bail from 10 May to 1 June 2024 to allow him to campaign for the 2024 general election. Following the expiration of this bail, Kejriwal surrendered at Tihar Jail on 2 June 2024.

Political rivals, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accused Kejriwal and his allies of selling liquor licenses and receiving kickbacks from private vendors. The ED claimed it had evidence of AAP receiving millions of dollars from a liquor group. Kejriwal was remanded until 28 March 2024 and remained in ED custody, with the Delhi High Court rejecting his petition against the arrest.

The new update from the Arvind Kejriwals Liquor Policy Case reported that Arvind Kejriwal's custody has now been extended till July 3, 2024.

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(For more news apart from Delhi Liqour Policy Case, Arvind Kejriwals Custody extended news, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Negotiations for the top EU jobs

EU heads of state and government hold first round of talks on the proposals of the European Council for three of the four top jobs in the European Union.

Photo: Pixabay

Corina Cristea, 18.06.2024, 13:50

The EU heads of state and government who gathered at the start of the week in Brussels for the first time since the European elections of 6-9 June debated the distribution of the top jobs in the Union. More exactly, the talks focused on the proposals of the European Council for three of the main positions in the EU: Commission president, Council president and foreign policy chief. The future occupants of these posts must be appointed by the Council and voted on by Parliament. The negotiations must also take into account the parliamentary majority formed in the aftermath of the recent European elections and the need to create a balance between the states in the east and those in the west of Europe.

The current Commission president Ursula von der Leyen has the biggest chances of winning a new term, given that the European Parliament is dominated by the European Peoples Party, of which 13 of the Unions 27 leaders and von der Leyens own Christian Democratic Union are members. To win a second term, von der Leyen needs the backing of at least 15 countries accounting for 65% of the Unions population and then 361 votes in the new European Parliament, which meets for the first time on 16th July.

EU member states must also decide the future president of the European Council and the new foreign policy chief. From among the Social Democrats, who form the second largest political group in the European Parliament, the frontrunner to replace outgoing Charles Michel seems to be Portugals former prime minister Antonio Costa. The 62-year-old Costa was forced to resign last November as he was being investigated for influence peddling, but many diplomats dont see this as an insurmountable obstacle given that the suspicions concerning him appear to dissipate. The names of Spains prime minister Pedro Sanchez and Italys former prime minister Enrico Letta have also been mentioned for the position of president of the European Council.

The majority in the European Parliament is also formed by Renew, which probably feels entitled to the foreign policy post, with names like Estonias prime minister Kaja Kallas and Belgiums prime minister Alexander De Croo being mentioned.

At the same time, Roberta Metsola, who became the president of the European Parliament in January 2022, seems to be sure of a second term as head of the fourth top job in the European Union. One element that complicates negotiations has to do with the division of posts between eastern and western Europe. The West has nominees in all areas, while the East only has Kaja Kallas.

EU leaders are to make a final decision at a summit on the 27th and 28th June, when they are also expected to discuss the Unions political objectives for the next five years in important areas like defence and the economy.
June 18, 2024

A roundup of domestic and international news

Newsflash

Newsroom, 18.06.2024, 13:55

GOVERNMENT  The governments of Romania and the State of Bavaria are today convening in a joint session marking 25 years of bilateral ties. The two delegations will sign a memorandum on entrepreneurship, SMEs and startups. The agenda of the meeting also includes the Schengen Area, migration, security cooperation, the war in Ukraine, as well as Moldovas EU integration. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and his Bavarian counterpart, Markus Soder, will hold bilateral talks, followed by a private meeting. Of Germanys federal states, Bavaria is Romanias biggest investor and trade partner, two-way trade exceeding 8 bln EUR.

MEETING  The president of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, is meeting his Italian counterpart, Sergio Mattarella on Wednesday in Bucharest. According to the presidency, the Italian presidents visit continues top-level exchanges after the Romanian presidents visit to Italy in 2018, the first after a 45-year break, as well as in the context of the joint Romanian-Italian government session hosted by Rome over February 14-15 this year. Romania and Italy this year celebrate 145 years of diplomat ties, as well as 60 years since relations were elevated to the rank of Embassy. The two officials will also tackle developments at European and global levels, focusing on the EU Strategic Agenda and security topics.

LAW  The Constitutional Court of Romania is today examining a notification from the High Court of Cassation and Justice regarding the so-called Law on Fugitives. At the end of 2023, the High Court referred to the Constitutional Court the Law on modifying and amending the 2009 Criminal Code Law, passed by the Chamber of Deputies in 2023. The said law stipulated that people with final sentences who do not turn themselves in to undergo imprisonment procedures within seven days of the sentence being passed are considered fugitives and risk an additional prison sentence of 6 months up to 3 years. The law allegedly violates the right to fair trial and the right to individual freedom, the High Court argues. Former Bucharest Mayor General Sorin Oprescu and former chief prosecutor of the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism, Alina Bica, are two examples of Romanian officials who managed to flee Romania to elude prison sentences. Italy and Greece are the top destinations for fugitives from the law.

BACCALAUREATE  The Romanian Baccalaureate continues today and tomorrow with the oral examination in the Romanian language. High-school pupils will then undergo the maternal and foreign language examinations as well as the computer skills test. The written exams are scheduled to start on July 1. Education Ministry officials say they have undertaken additional security measures to reduce the possibility of fraud. CCTV surveillance systems will be used to monitor all examinations, while the evaluation of written exams will be available on the digital platform only.

EXHIBITION  Italys capital-city Rome is hosting an exhibition featuring Romanian traditional costumes and ceramic items from the collections of the Romanian Village Museum, alongside other exhibits from the Museum of Civilizations in Rome. Open until July 14, the exhibition also marks the Universal Day of the Romanian Blouse, celebrated on June 24.

ELECTIONS  European heads of state and government met face to face, for the first time since the European Parliament elections, to negotiate the highest positions in European institutions. The current president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, is favorite to be entrusted with a new term at the helm of the Commission, backed not just by the winner of the European Parliament elections, the European Peoples Party, but also enjoying the support of most heads of state or government in Europe. The former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa is credited expected to be designated President of the European Council, while the Estonian Prime Minister, Kaja Kallas, will reportedly be appointed High Representative for Foreign Affairs.

EURO 2024  Turkey is today playing Georgia while Portugal will take on Czechia in Group F fixtures. On Tuesday, in Group E, Romania grabbed a 3-0 win against Ukraine, while Slovakia won 1-0 against Belgium. (VP)
June 18, 2024 UPDATE

A roundup of the latest local and international news

Newsflash

Newsroom, 18.06.2024, 20:14

TALKS On Tuesday after his talks in Munich with the Romanian Prime Minister, Marcel Ciolacu, the Prime Minister of Bavaria, Markus Soder, underlined the importance of Romanias fully-fledged accession to Schengen. He also mentioned that over 213 thousand Romanian nationals are presently living in Bavaria and highlighted their contribution to society. The German official also pleaded for stepped up economic relations. Germany is Romanias best partner, and Bavaria is the strongest trade partner of Romania  the official went on to say. Prime Minister Ciolacu also mentioned the excellent cooperation relations between Romania and Bavaria and reiterated Romanias staunch support for the European future of the partners in the western Balkans as well as of the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine. Ciolacu also reiterated Romanias solidarity with Ukraine and the Ukrainian people in the illegal and unjustified war waged by Russia as well as Romanias commitment to the multidimensional support for Ukraine and the tight cooperation with Germany in this respect. During the visit to Munich, the governments of Romania and the state of Bavaria convened in a joint session marking 25 years of bilateral relations. The delegations signed a memorandum on entrepreneurship, the SMEs and startups.

EXAM Tuesday saw the oral examinations in the Romanian language part of the baccalaureate exam. The examination of the linguistic and oral communication in the Romanian language is going to continue on Wednesday, and they will be followed by exams in the mother tongue, computer skills and the foreign language exams. The written exams are going to kick off on July 1st. Education officials have given assurances the measures taken for this Baccalaureate session will significantly reduce frauds. All the exams are being video and audio monitored and the written papers will be graded only on the digital platform.

EXHIBITION Italys capital-city Rome is hosting an exhibition featuring Romanian traditional costumes and ceramic items from the collections of the Romanian Village Museum, alongside other exhibits from the Museum of Civilizations in Rome. Open until July 14, the exhibition also marks the Universal Day of the Romanian Blouse, celebrated on June 24.

MEETING The president of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, is meeting his Italian counterpart, Sergio Mattarella on Wednesday in Bucharest. According to the presidency, the Italian presidents visit continues top-level exchanges after the Romanian presidents visit to Italy in 2018, the first after a 45-year break, as well as in the context of the joint Romanian-Italian government session hosted by Rome over February 14-15 this year. Romania and Italy this year celebrate 145 years of diplomat ties, as well as 60 years since relations were elevated to the rank of Embassy. The two officials will also tackle developments at European and global levels, focusing on the EU Strategic Agenda and security topics.

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A Fiery Week in target ranges across the country

Two wide-scope multinational exercises, Ramstein Legacy and Scorpions Legacy, respectively, have recently been hosted by the target ranges in south-eastern Romanias Capu Midia and Cincu, in central Romania.

romania-flancul-estic-19-iunie.jpg

Eugen Nasta, 19.06.2024, 14:00

Two wide-scope multinational exercises, Ramstein Legacy and Scorpions Legacy, respectively, have recently been hosted by the target ranges in south-eastern Romanias Capu Midia and Cincu, in central Romania.

1,300 Romanian military jointly with their partners from nine other allied countries have been deployed as part of the Ramstein Legacy 24 air and anti-missile training exercise led by the Allied Air Commander and concurrently held in Romania and Bulgaria. Therefore, the set target of the exercise was the engagement of a multinational structure for a defense operation of the territory and the population.

PATRIOT and HAWK rocket systems have been used, as well as F-16, IAR-330 and IAR-96 aircrafts, ground-based air defense systems, command-control systems and military aircrafts of the participating countries. All throughout the 11 days of the training, the German military were visited by Ambassador Peer Gebauer. After Romania and Bulgaria, Germany was the biggest suppliers of troops for the Ramstein Legacy 24 exercise.

In Romania, the exercise was connected to the DACIA 24 operative-tactical level multi-tasking training platform. A national objective in the unfolding of the exercise was finalizing the operationalization process of the second PATRIOT system which, following the live fire in Capu Midia range, was certified as mission-capable.

The second training event connected to DACIA 24 is Scorpions Legacy 24. It is the exercise of the ground forces, organized by Southern Romanias Craiova-based Southeast Multinational Brigade, staged in the Cincu range. Taking part in the exercise are roughly 1,600 Romanian and allied military (from Belgium, France, Italy, North Macedonia, Poland and Portugal). The set target of the exercise is strengthening the multinational cohesion through tactical training on the ground, with live fire.

In a separate move, 200 Romanian and around 50 foreign military have represented the forces involved in Eurasian Partnership Mine Counter Measure Dive 24 Multinational Exercise, led by the Diving Centre. The Black Sea was the venue for the training exercise whose set target was strengthening the interoperability and the operational training in the field of elimination of explosive devices and the fight against mines. The participating structures have held specific action to discover and neutralize two historical sea mines that had been identified during some of the exercises held in 2023.

The NATO Fight group in Romania has a new commander. As part of a military ceremony held in Cincu range, Colonel Louis Marie Levacher took over the command of the eighth rotation from his comrade, colonel Benoit Chrissement. On this occasion, the area of the military camp where the French military are accommodated was named The General Berthelot Camp, as a tribute to the French hero and a symbol of the ties France has with Romania. A commemorative plaque was also unveiled, in honor of General Henri Mathias Berthelot.

We wrap up this weeks edition of our series with the visit of a French National Defense College delegation to central Romanias Sibiu-based Headquarters Multinational Corps Southeast. The 120 civilian and military members have been welcomed by the commander of the multinational structure, Major-General Cristian Dan. The Romanian general highlighted the importance of the cooperation between the French Armed Forces and the multinational corps. According to general Cristian Dan, that is meant to enhance the two countries defense capabilities, at once strengthening the unity of NATO.
Cooperation Romania  Bavaria

The first joint session of the Romanian and Bavarian governments took place in Munich to mark 25 years of bilateral relations

Cooperation Romania  Bavaria

Daniela Budu, 19.06.2024, 14:00

We are supporting Romanias fully-fledged accession to Schengen  Markus Soder, the Prime Minister of the state of Bavaria assured his Romanian counterpart Marcel Ciolacu during the official visit he paid as head of a ministerial delegation that went to Munich on Monday and Tuesday.

The Bavarian official mentioned the real headway made by Bucharest.

Markus Soder: We are seeing the progress Romania made, the security aspects. And we are a support to Romania for its fully-fledged accession to the Schengen zone. The cooperation with Europol, the process of fighting corruption have registered great progress and the authorities are cooperating very well. We have got very important and good information from the Bavarian Interior Ministry. And for this reason it is important for Romania to join Schengen as a fully-fledged member.

Munich also saw the first joint session of the Romanian and Bavarian governments, where they tackled ways of consolidating the bilateral, economic, social and security cooperation. The two sides have signed a memorandum on entrepreneurship, SMEs and start-ups. Out of all German states, Bavaria is Romanias most important investor and trade partner with a volume of trade exchanges of 8.3 billion Euros at the end of last year. Marcel Ciolacu says that he wants that all major Bavarian companies invest in Romania.

Marcel Ciolacu: We want the big Bavaria-based companies in the field of car-making, engineering and aero-spatial industry, invest in Romania. We have one of the best growth-rates in Europe.

The Bavarian Prime Minister also stood for stepping up the bilateral economic relations adding that one domain that should be given increased attention is that of the defence industry. In fact, the talks between the two high officials also focused on the security situation at the Black Sea against the background of the conflict in Ukraine.

Marcel Ciolacu reiterated Romanias support for the neighbouring Ukraine and the intention of Bucharest to actively contribute to its reconstruction process. The officials also tackled the EUs enlargement process.

Marcel Ciolacu: We have reiterated our staunch support for the European future of the partners in the Western Balkans, as well as the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine on the candidates own merits in the reform process. We have also mentioned Romanias appreciation for the sustained efforts of the authorities in Chisinau to implement the needed reforms and have emphasized the fact that we will continue to staunchly support the Republic of Moldova on its way to European integration.

The officials also had a meeting with the representatives of the Romanian community in the region. Romania is also important because more than 213 thousand Romanian nationals are living in Bavaria, the largest foreign community. They have their own contribution and we are happy to have them here  Markus Soder said.

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Sa ciTimisoara!

New project seeks to promote the writers from Timisoara and the books about this city.

"Sa ciTimisoara"

Ana-Maria Cononovici, 18.06.2024, 14:00

Patricia Lidia has initiated over the years a number of cultural projects, including a book club for detainees, the first of its kind in the country, as well as creative writing workshops for children. We asked her to tell us more about her latest project entitled Sa ciTimisoara, which seeks to promote the writers from Timisoara and the books about this city in western Romania.

The name is a playful combination between the verb to read and Timisoara. Our intention is to promote writers from Timisoara and books about Timisoara, for we often feel that because we are at some distance away from the capital city, in another geographical region of the country, writers from Timisoara are little known outside of their own city. Four years ago we launched this initiative in the form of informal meetings rather than book launches in which we look at how the city is reflected and in which we promote the citys writers.

The participants in these meetings are writers themselves, although they also have other day-to-day jobs, says our interlocutor Patricia Lidia:

We each discovered Timisoaras history during research for our own books and each realised in our own way that the citys Freedom Square, its baroque buildings, the fancy restaurants, Trajan Square and Fabric, which is now unfortunately in ruins, have a captivating history, much more so than we could have imagined or about which we didnt know because we often tend to glorify the cities we go to on holiday but forget that we live in a beautiful city ourselves, a city that attracts many tourists. We discovered the citys hidden treasures and were united in a desire to show the world that this city full of history but little known is not just a collection of Habsburg-era vestiges and bored engineers, but also a cultural destination, a place that witnessed important historical events and which are not taught in school but which should be known not only by adults and older people but also children, so as to understand in fact the context in which Timisoara developed.

Patricia Lidia says the project is completely apolitical:

We dont do politics, have nothing to sell. We simply want to get together regularly, we, the writers of Timisoara with the readers of Timisoara, with people who are passionate about Timisoara, and talk without affectation, like friends, about the corners of the city that caught our attention and listen to fragments from books inspired by these places read by the very writers who discovered those wonderful places. We started out with a small group of 6 or 8 friends and at our last gathering there were 35 of us. Much to our surprise and joy, we had to borrow chairs from the neighbours, there were so many of us. We usually meet at two locations, at Carturesti Mercy in the centre and at AmPm, a bar in the Fabric area, but recently we started working with an antique book shop, Queen, which will create a special section dedicated to writers from Timisoara.

We asked our interlocutor about the interesting things these readings uncovered:

One seminal work I discovered is Cristian Vicols Short History of Timisoara until 1716, which doesnt just focus on historical data as we learn them in school, but weaves them together with captivating stories and images to provide a new perspective on the citys history and myths. I found out from this book, for example, that although we learn in school about the famous battle of Posada of 1330, when the Hungarian king Carol Robert of Anjou was defeated and driven out, we dont also learn that his residence was in Timisoara, which was at the time an integral part of the Hungarian Kingdom and that the whole operation in fact had been launched from here.

Patricia Lidia is full of confidence in the future when it comes to reading and the writers of Timisoara:

Apart from the established, albeit amateur, writers we have here in Timisoara, we are also trying to cultivate a passion for writing and for the city among children. So we also have our little writers. Im very proud of my contribution to the publication of a book coordinated by Elena Manolache, who teaches at School no. 25 in Timisoara, where they published a book containing texts written by children, so Im confident that the future generations of writers are being forged and that we will have some wonderful surprises.
The Netherlands Cybersecurity Agency or NCSC warned that the espionage led by Chinese hackers during 2022 and 2023 was "much larger than previously known."

In February, the Dutch Military Intelligence and Security Service or MIVD reported that a Chinese state-sponsored malware campaign compromised 20,000 FortiGate systems, out of which 14,000 were breached during "zero-day", a period of two months before Fortinet (FTNT) became aware of the situation.

"Targets include dozens of governments, international organizations, and a large number of companies within the defense industry," the MIVD stated.

The malware Coathanger, a remote access trojan, could be only removed by complete device reformat as it is capable of surviving system reboots and firmware updates, the agency added. Also, it is difficult to detect its presence using FortiGate CLI commands.

"This gave the state actor permanent access to the systems. Even if a victim installs security updates from FortiGate, the state actor continues to keep this access," the MIVD found.

"It is not known how many victims actually have malware installed. The Dutch intelligence services and the NCSC consider it likely that the state actor could potentially expand his access to hundreds of victims worldwide and carry out additional actions such as stealing data."

The cybersecurity agency also noted that the problem is not limited to Fortinet appliances, but also affects "edge" devices, such as firewalls, VPN servers, routers, and SMTP servers.

"Recent incidents and identified vulnerabilities within various edge devices show that these products are often not designed according to modern security-by-design principles," the NCSC stated.

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Business News
The Swedish unemployment rate decreased for the second straight month in May, figures from Statistics Sweden showed on Wednesday.

The unadjusted jobless rate dropped to a 3-month low of 8.7 percent in May from 8.9 percent in the previous month.

In the same month last year, the unemployment rate was 7.9 percent.

The number of unemployed people declined to 496,000 in May from 513,000 in April.

Young people between the ages of 15 and 24 accounted for 185,000 unemployed people, or 26.7 percent of the workforce, the agency said.

Data showed that the employment rate decreased to 68.3 percent from 68.9 percent, representing 5.187 million employed people.

RTTNews Economic Calendar helps you stay ahead of the curve and is updated in real-time. Get your Economic Calendar today and make data-driven decisions.

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Business News
Oil prices fell slightly on Wednesday after climbing to a seven-week high the previous day on signs of escalating geopolitical tensions in Europe and the Middle East.

Benchmark Brent crude futures dipped 0.2 percent to $85.13 a barrel, while WTI crude futures were down 0.2 percent at $80.53.

Investors fretted about sluggish demand growth after industry data showed a surprise build in U.S. crude oil inventories last week.

The American Petroleum Institute reported that crude oil inventories in the United States rose by 2.264 million barrels in the week ending June 14, compared with an expected draw of 2.2 million barrels.

Gasoline inventories fell by 1.077 million barrels this week, while distillate inventories rose by 538,000 barrels.

Official inventory data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration will be released on Thursday, delayed a day due to the Juneteenth holiday.

On the geopolitical front, Ukrainian forces have launched a drone attack that set several oil storage tanks ablaze near the town of Azov in southern Russia, posing a threat to physical global supply and boosting the risk premium priced into crude futures.

Elsewhere, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said that the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement would be destroyed in the event of a "total war".

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Market Analysis
Accenture plc (ACN) Wednesday said it has agreed to acquire Fibermind, an Italy-based network services company, for undisclosed financial terms.

Completion of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including required antitrust clearances.

Rovigo, Italy -based Fibermind, with more than 400 highly qualified professionals, is specializing in fiber and mobile 5G networks deployment, as well as infrastructure engineering services.

Accenture expects the acquisition to strengthen its capabilities in the domain and extend network services to clients across multiple industries, including telecommunications, utilities, and transportation.

Accenture and Fibermind together will offer clients network engineering capabilities, deep industry knowledge, and assets powered by automation, robotics, data and AI.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Chipmaker Nvidia Corp. has become the world's most valuable company, overtaking tech major Microsoft Corp., on the strength of surging demand for artificial intelligence or AI chips worldwide.

The company now has a market cap of $3.335 trillion, compared to Microsoft's $3.317 trillion.

Nvidia on June 5th had breached the $3 trillion mark in valuation to become the second most valuable company overtaking tech giant Apple Inc., which now stands at $3.286 trillion market cap.

Nvidia stock price, which has surged significantly in recent times, reached $135.58 at the market close on Tuesday, up 3.51% from the previous day. In the extended trading, the shares gained 0.6 percent further to reach $136.40.

Nvidia shares were gaining particularly since the chipmaker in early June announced plans to launch its next generation of AI chips. Ahead of the tech expo Computex in Taiwan, the company's Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang announced the plan to release Blackwell Ultra, a high-powered version of its Blackwell chip, in 2025, and a new AI chip platform, Rubin, in 2026. The company also plans to debut an Ultra version of Rubin in 2027.

During the event, he had told the crowd that "the next Industrial Revolution has begun." Nvidia also introduced new tools and software models on the eve of the trade show.

The company, which has pledged to release new AI chip on a one-year basis, in March had launched its previous AI super chip Blackwell GPU, which is said to do some tasks 30 times faster than its predecessor.

The Blackwell model is still in production and expected to ship to customers later in 2024. The Blackwell platform succeeds the NVIDIA Hopper architecture, which was launched two years ago.

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Business News
In Conversation: Four Decades of Artworks by The Rhodes University Fine Art Department

By: The Division of Communication & Advancement

As we mark 120 years of academic excellence, we reflect on the rich tapestry of history and transformation that defines Rhodes University and its decades of artistic contributions to the arts. Rhodes University is proud to announce a series of performances and exhibits as part of the official National Art Festival (NAF) programme, which marks its 50th anniversary, between 20 and 30 June 2024 in Makhanda.

The Rhodes University Fine Art Department, renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, has a special exhibition celebrating four decades of artwork by current and former staff titled "In Conversation: Four Decades of Artworks." Curated by Dominic Thorburn, Robyn Munnick, and Maureen de Jager on behalf of the RU Visual Representation, Arts and Culture Committee (VRACC), and with support from the Rhodes University Office of Equity and Institutional Culture, it features a collection that began in the 1980s under Emeritus Professor Robert Brooks, showcasing shifts in representation, themes, and concerns in visual arts over the decades. Maureen de Jager notes that what holds the exhibition together is the motif of conversations across time, between artworks and their era, teachers and their students. This exhibition is ultimately a forty-year conversation between Fine Art colleagues united in their appreciation of art as a common language. It leverages the opportunity presented by Rhodes Universitys 120th anniversary to reignite interest in the RU art collection and showcase some of its highlights, de Jager emphasised.

The Rhodes University Drama Department, another key player in the arts at the University, will again be featured as one of the festival's venues, alongside venues from the Music Department. This department has a rich history of producing acclaimed and award-winning graduates who have contributed to theatre and performance locally and internationally. It is unique among South African institutions and has affiliations with two professional theatre companies: The First Physical Theatre Company and UBOM! Eastern Cape Theatre Company.

One of the performances is called Mamemamela (Listen). It is a dramatisation of personal stories centred on identity, memory, and belonging through playback theatre - improvisational theatre based on the real-life stories of audience members. The Artistic Director, Selloane 'Lalu' Mokuku, is a lecturer in Drama at Rhodes University and formed MEQOQO Playback Theatre Collective in 2018 - a Rhodes University Drama Department affiliate. Identity shapes how an individual or a collective is perceived. These performances invite audiences to share their stories, celebrating our diverse connections with the Festival and beyond, said Lalu.

Sponsored by The Isikhumbuzo Applied History Unit at the Rhodes University History Department as part of its program to bring little-told stories of local history into public awareness, the dance and drama performance "Madam President Evelyn" aims to highlight underrepresented local histories. Prof. Julie Wells, Head of the Isikhumbuzo Applied History Unit, oversaw the research and coordination. It tells the fictional story of a spirited domestic worker who starts her political party and runs for president in 2024, gradually winning over even her employers and draws inspiration from Jacklyn Cock's groundbreaking 1980 Rhodes PhD thesis, which gave a voice to over 200 domestic workers and employers in Makhanda, Wells emphasised.

Adding to the celebration, the festival will host the Halala! ILAMs 70th Birthday Celebration Concert on June 21, 2024. This concert marks the International Library of African Music's 70th anniversary. It will feature diverse African music, including Lesotho's 'Famo' music, Mozambique's Timbila Groove Band, and the Ngqoko Women's Ensemble, highlighting ILAM's contributions to preserving African music heritage.

It is worth noting that the Alumni Division will host an Old Rhodian Festival Cocktail with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof Sizwe Mabizela, on the 27th of June. Old Rhodians are invited to join their alma mater using the above link to RSVP.

As we celebrate 50 years of the National Arts Festival, 30 years of democracy, and Rhodes University's 120th anniversary, we reflect on our rich history and the transformative power of the arts in shaping our society. This milestone is a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering creative excellence and contributing meaningfully to the cultural and intellectual heritage of South Africa.
Toyota sold 25,959 units in May 2024 to records a double-digit 24% YoY and 28% MoM growth

Toyota Kirloskar Motor continued to show its robust and steady performance through the month of May 2024. Sales increased significantly by 23.63% YoY and by 28.12% on a MoM basis with the Glanza and Hycross heading the list. A versatile lineup of models in 5 body styles of hatchback, sedan, SUV, MUV and Pickup has allowed the company to show strong growth. The company also introduced the Taisor SUV in April 2024. It is a sub 4m SUV based on the Brezza.

Toyota YoY Sales May 2024  Glanza Leads

With a total of 23,959 units sold last month, Toyota Kirloskar Motors has reported a 23.63% YoY growth. There had been 19,379 units sold in May 2023 relating to a volume increase of 4,580 units. Toyota Glanza, despite witnessing a 12.78% YoY decline in sales, headed this list with 4,517 units sold last month to command an 18.85% share. There were 5,179 units sold in May 2023.

Hycross sales were up 47.53% YoY to 4,411 units, an increase of 1,421 units over 2,990 units sold in May 2023. Toyota Crysta too suffered a setback by 13.56% from 4,786 units sold in May 2023 to 4,137 units sold last month. These three stalwarts Glanza, Hycross and Crysta together commanded a 55% share in the company portfolio.

Toyota HyRyder sales were up 26.41% to 3,906 units even as the company suffered a setback in Fortuner sales, which fell 16.11% YoY to 2,422 units over 2,887 units sold in May 2023. Toyota Hyryder was also at No. 4 on the list of compact SUV sales last month, ahead of VW Taigun and Honda Elevate by a huge margin. Toyota Taisor, a relatively new comer to the company portfolio added 2,180 units to total sales last month. It was also on the list of sub-compact SUVs ahead of the Renault Kiger and Maruti Jimny by significant numbers.

Toyota Rumion, a rebadged Maruti Ertiga, launched during the latter part of 2023, has added 1,919 units to total company sales. The sales list also included the Hilux (283 units) and Camry (122 units) both of which have reported a YoY de-growth while Vellfire sales escalated by an astounding 1140% to 62 units last month from just 5 units sold in the same month last year.

Toyota Posts 28% MoM Sales Growth in May 2024

Toyota also experienced a 28.12% growth in its month-on-month (MoM) sales in May 2024 as figures grew over 18,700 units sold in April 2024. This was a volume growth of 5,259 units. Every model in the company list has seen outstanding growth except for the Camry. The Glanza has witnessed a satisfactory 3.13 percent MoM growth while Hycross sales were also up 3.16%.

Crysta sales on the other hand has seen a huge improvement in demand by 46.34% from 2,827 units sold in April 2024 to 4,137 units in the past month. Toyota Hyryder and Fortuner have seen a 20.11% and 4.17% MoM growth while registering the second highest growth percentage was the Rumion with a 60.99% improvement to 1,919 units sold in May 2024 from 1,192 units sold in April 2024.

Hilux sales grew by 7.20% MoM while sales of the Camry fell by 31.84% to 122 units. Toyota Vellfire sales escalated 1140% from 5 units sold in April 2024 to 62 units in May 2024.
Mayor Byron Brown announced Wednesday that emergency stabilization, and not emergency demolition, would be undertaken on two joined 19th-century buildings in the historic Cobblestone District heavily damaged by fire Tuesday night.

The fire began shortly before 8 p.m. on the first floor of the buildings, fire officials said, and flames soon flashed out of the rooftop of the four-story brick structure at 110 South Park Ave., causing damage to that and adjoining properties at 118 South Park.

Both have been the subject of City Housing Court cases for years.

These properties were already in a state of disrepair and neglect before they caught fire yesterday, Brown said during an early afternoon press conference alongside the damaged building at 118 South Park. There have been questions about an emergency demolition. The city is not looking at emergency demolition. We are looking at emergency stabilization.

The mayor said six historic properties were damaged and city inspectors have been out with fire investigators assessing their conditions.

We will be treating how we handle these properties going forward with great sensitivity. We know there is a lot of concern for preservation in our city, and these are some of the oldest properties still left in the City of Buffalo, and we are very mindful of that, Brown said.

He also expressed gratitude to the Fire Department and other city departments for their efforts, and relief that no one was hurt fighting the fire.

The mayor said he will convene a meeting this week with architect Steven Carmina, developer Sam Savarino, Preservation Buffalo Niagara and others to discuss next steps for the historic site.

We will try to draw on some of the expertise that exists in the preservation community for our plan for the stabilization of these structures, Brown said.

Preservationist Tim Tielman said he was relieved the buildings, especially 110 South Park, at the corner of South Park and Illinois Street, would not be demolished.

Buffalo firefighters battle blaze in historic buildings in Cobblestone District Buffalo firefighters are battling a blaze that started shortly before 8 p.m. Tuesday in a historic building in the Cobblestone District that has been the center of a dispute between the city and its owner.

It is the iconic identifying building of the entire Cobblestone District, said Tielman, who wrote the landmarking application 30 years ago for the Historic Cobblestone District. It is the only pre-Civil War building on the entire waterfront. Everything else has been destroyed.

The two-alarm fire at South Park and Illinois Street was difficult for the firefighters to subdue.

We have to maintain our standoff distance because a couple of walls are compromised, Fire Commissioner William Renaldo said at a Tuesday night news conference, expressing concern about the structural integrity of the walls and roof. We have bricks falling, things of that nature.

Many of the 50 to 60 firefighters on site were the same crews that responded to the Monday fire that led to an emergency demolition of the bar known as the Old Pink in Allentown.

Heavy machinery was brought in from Grand Island to help gain access to the buildings.

The City of Buffalo appeared close to taking possession of the properties in March, after the Appellate Division of State Supreme Court, on a vote of 4 to 1, denied owners Darryl Carr and Park Avenue Estates request to overturn the Common Councils rarely taken March 7 decision to seize the properties. The ruling said the city was within its right to pursue eminent domain to prevent further deterioration of the properties and enable development.

That decision was on appeal and was to be heard in about a week, said Fillmore Common Council Member Mitch Nowakowski, who expressed anger over the years of indecision in the courts and Carrs stewardship as the empty structures continued to deteriorate.

City inspectors have written up Carr off and on for the past 15 years for failing to maintain the properties, and he has been cited continually by city Housing Court judges Henry Nowak and Patrick Carney.

Carr, an environmental scientist who also owns the Cobblestone Bar and Grill just east of the targeted buildings, has long contended the buildings were structurally unsafe when he acquired them, as well as contaminated from industrial chemicals. He has sought to demolish both buildings to make way for a development project centered on a skyscraper, while incorporating some of the original facade.

Carney in February 2023 ordered an emergency demolition of the dilapidated properties out of concern for public safety. That remains on appeal by the city in Erie County Court.

To this date, nobody has presented me with a palpable solution to 110-118 South Park, Carney said in frustration 10 months earlier, in court. The city doesnt have one, preservation doesnt have one, and Mr. Carr doesnt have one, other than to tear it down. Im begging for anybody to propose a solution.

I have gavels, the judge said as he gripped one at his bench and lifted it in the air. I dont have magic wands.

Carr in 2003 purchased the three-story 1869 building at 118 South Park Ave., the home for a half century of the Buffalo Blacksmith Shop. It includes building additions over the years.

The 1852 building at 110 South Park, purchased in 2008, opened as George Mugridge & Son Steam Bakery, makers of hardtack  a type of biscuit  for the Union Army during the Civil War. The last tenant was Phoenix Die Casting Co., which operated a machine shop in the front and a foundry in the back from 1950 to 1988.

The wrecking ball nearly came down on the properties in 2009, when Nowak issued an emergency demolition. That order was later reversed on appeal.

Carr and the city agreed to mothball the buildings, leaving them in limbo for several years, and agreeing not to prosecute Carr for their condition. A succession of housing court violations, court-ordered repairs, fines and more court appearances followed.

In an interview Wednesday with The Buffalo News, Carr thanked first responders and city officials who went to the burning property for being very professional, concerned and responsive, calling it an insane situation.

As in the past, he said he had taken ownership of a demo-ready building used for industrial purposes.

I have the reports to prove that, he added.

The fire could have been set off by the heat or with all the oils in there, spontaneous combustion, he speculated. Nobody really knows yet.

An investigation into the cause continues.

Court ruling puts city closer to taking embattled Cobblestone District properties The Appellate Division ruled against an appeal of a decision by the Common Council in March 2023, allowing the city to take control of two damaged properties in the Cobblestone Historic District.

The buildings are the most historic of the 11 that remain in the Cobblestone District, bordered by South Park Avenue and Perry, Mississippi and Illinois streets. The district, designated a local landmark in 1994 by the Common Council, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2014.

Scaffolding along a portion of 110 South Park that wrapped around Illinois Street was erected to protect the public against falling bricks. Parts of the two buildings were in precarious condition, made worse by the Christmas week blizzard in 2022, which further damaged roofs, masonry and walls.

And now came a fire, which caused falling bricks that knocked out the scaffolding.

Catherine Amdur, commissioner of the Department of Permit and Inspection Services, urged people to refrain from coming near the buildings to look at them.

We have an imminent hazard here, Amdur said. The way we mitigate that right now while doing the best we can to preserve whats there is to keep people away.
A shop owner has been sentenced to a one-year conditional discharge in a case stemming from a marijuana gifting scheme after a two-day non-jury trial, acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced.

David A. Zale Jr., 32, of the Town of Lancaster, was found guilty of third-degree criminal possession of cannabis by Erie County Court Judge Sheila A. DiTullio. Keane noted that it was the lesser offense in the indictment against him.

Prosecutors said that about 10 pounds of marijuana were found when Cheektowaga police executed a search warrant shortly after noon on Feb. 4, 2022, at Zale's Green Vision Wellness, 1380 French Road, Depew.

The search warrant was issued after an undercover detective acquired cannabis products in the store by buying a sticker and being given the products as a gift. Zale originally was indicted on a count of first-degree criminal possession of cannabis.

Prosecutors said in 2022 that Zale also operated shops in Amherst, Batavia, Buffalo and Lockport and sold stickers in denominations ranging from $10 to $300, which were exchanged for gifts of various quantities of cannabis.

 Dale Anderson
News / Local

by Staff reporter

The Zimbabwean government is gearing up for the Diaspora Investment Conference scheduled for July 4 to 6 in Beitbridge, with a focus on encouraging Zimbabweans abroad to invest in Matebeleland South province. The event, themed "Matebeleland South Province: Unlocking New Investment Frontiers through Diaspora Community Engagement," will be conducted in a hybrid format, facilitating both physical and virtual participation.According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, various government ministries, departments, and agencies tasked with promoting diaspora involvement in national development will be actively involved in the conference. The objectives include showcasing investment opportunities within Matebeleland South to diaspora communities and potential investors, and continuing the momentum from the earlier National Diaspora Investment Conference held in Masvingo earlier this year.The conference aims to foster dialogue and partnerships among diaspora communities, local and foreign investors, and the private sector, exploring potential investment opportunities and collaborations available in Matebeleland South province.
The-city

Spotlight

Lifelong Fillmore residents walking tours would showcase neighborhood history

Craig Lee/The Examiner Ericka Scott, right, stands with Majeid Crawford in front of the Boom Boom Room at Fillmore Street and Geary Boulevard in February 2024.

A lifelong Fillmore resident has spent the better part of a year organizing walking tours to highlight the neighborhoods history as the center of Black life in San Francisco.

Ericka Scott, who operates the art gallery and event space Honey Art Studio just off Fillmore Street, couldnt walk more than a few blocks without passersby stopping to say hello, shake her hand and ask how her family was doing as she guided The Examiner through the neighborhood earlier this year. Scott pointed out the ice-cream shop where she got her first job, and the cafe where her family and their friends would gather to catch up.

So much comes with having a community that supports each other, said Scott. We really lost that, and weve been consistently trying to get it back.

Scott said this month that she submitted her proposal under the San Francisco Dream Keeper Initiative, which seeks to invest in The Citys Black communities. She said the tours aim to provide historical context about the neighborhood that she currently finds sorely lacking.

This is a very significant part of our history, part of our culture, Scott said. When we talk about our tours and our history, our art, a lot of our younger generations dont have a clue.

Countless Black residents and businesses left the Fillmore  once known as the Harlem of the West for its thriving cultural scene  following San Franciscos urban-renewal efforts, which included the widening of Geary Street into an eight-lane expressway with an underpass below Fillmore Street.

Gearys transformation, in particular, served as a point of upheaval for the neighborhoods thriving Black community, forcing many families and storefronts elsewhere while cutting off those that remained from nearby neighborhoods. Federal transportation officials approved a $2 million Reconnecting Communities grant in March to fund an analysis of how to best reconnect the Fillmore with Japantown and the Western Addition.

We really created a thriving community that was becoming known around the world as a cultural haven for blues, jazz, food, and just the richness of diversity, said Majeid Crawford, a Fillmore activist and the executive director at New Community Leadership Foundation, which recently signed onto to support the grant project to begin the steps of reconnecting the Fillmore neighborhood.

Scott said she wants her tour to highlight those institutions, one of which is Marcus Books. A Black-owned bookstore founded in the Fillmore in 1960, Scott said urban renewal forced the shop to relocate several times. It ultimately found a home of more than 30 years at 1712 Fillmore St., the Victorian building that once housed the jazz club known as Jimbos Bop City.

Bop City closed in 1965, right around when Geary Street was widened, but the building remained intact. The club served as the inspiration for The Fillmore Eclipse, an immersive theater performance held at Honey Art Studio earlier this year.

It was a great club that was thriving, Crawford said of Jimbos Bop City. We had people from all over, all the greats, like Billie Holiday, all the greats. Theyd perform somewhere else downtown, and then that night, theyd all come play here.

All that remains of the club is a metal marker on the sidewalk along Fillmore close to its original Post Street location, commemorating its name.

Marcus Books didnt make it in the long run either, closing its San Francisco location in 2014. Marcus Books still operates in Oakland at 3900 Martin Luther King Jr. Way.

Through financing and gentrification, it was one of the first businesses that we lost and it was a huge loss, Scott said of the Fillmore location.

Crawford called the bookstore probably the most important establishment in the neighborhood. He said its service to the community went far beyond its extensive selection of Black literature.

It was just like a watering hole, he said. People came and talked. It was a gathering place.

Craig Lee/The Examiner Gamper Drums performing at the Boom Boom Room at 1601 Fillmore Street in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024.

Down another block, Scott pointed out the Boom Boom Room at 1601 Fillmore St., one of the last old-school clubs in a neighborhood that was once inundated with live music.

You can still hear music outside the front door on many nights, as was the case during The Examiners walk through the neighborhood. The sounds in the small space are bright and enthusiastic amid the dark lighting, with Chris Gamper and his jazz band rocking out, even with only a few customers in the room.

We are surviving. We are behind on a lot of bills, said Scott Karczewski, the bar manager at the Boom Boom Room. Were doing our best. Were a very tight family.

Scott said the Boom Boom Rooms vibe and music make it one of the closest things the Fillmore still has to the clubs that were once so ubiquitous, making it a no-doubt stop on the eventual tour.

Craig Lee/The Examiner Scott Karczewski, bar manager at the Boom Boom Room at 1601 Fillmore Street in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024.

Some destinations will have deeply personal connections to Scott, which she said she hopes to to sprinkle in for tourists and visitors.

Miyako Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop at 1470 Fillmore St. is one such stop. Scott said she worked there as a preteen after begging the shops owner, Tom Bennett, to let her work there along with her older cousins and sisters.

Every time I come now, he wont let me pay for anything, she said of Bennett, who still sells ice cream. His shop might be one of the last places in The City where customers can buy a sandwich for $4.

Anything she does is great, Bennett said of Scott. who first opened Miyako in the 1980s. He said that working behind the counter of his closet-sized shop was his favorite part of the Fillmore.

Bennetts business has managed to stay afloat due to community support. After his shop was broken into during the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic, a GoFundMe raised more than $10,000 overnight to help with repairs.

Craig Lee/The Examiner Tom Bennett, owner of Miyako Old Fashioned Ice Cream Shop at 1470 Fillmore Street in San Francisco during a tour of the Fillmore District on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024.

Scott said she wants her tour to convey this sort of camaraderie and togetherness, as well as the sadder parts of the neighborhoods history. She said she intends to recruit others with different backgrounds  including Crawford  to conduct tours as well, injecting a little personal flavor into each one.

Ultimately, Scott said, the tour is meant for those who dont know the Fillmores history, and the tour guides will be people who want to share their connection to it.

Im always wanting people to understand the contributions that we make to their city, and to our community, and pointing those kinds of things out, Scott said.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

Opposition Zapu leader Sibangilizwe Nkomo criticized President Emmerson Mnangagwa for seeking protection from Russian President Vladimir Putin during a recent visit to St Petersburg, as shown in a widely shared video. Mnangagwa had expressed concerns about Zimbabwe's isolation by Western countries, suggesting favoritism towards Zambia and Malawi instead.In a statement over the weekend, Zapu acting spokesperson Brian Ncube expressed deep concern over Mnangagwa's leadership, describing him as "captured" and criticizing his undiplomatic approach. Ncube highlighted Mnangagwa's diplomatic misstep in Russia, accusing a neighboring country of threatening his security due to its foreign policy alignment.Ncube pointed out Mnangagwa's attempts to misrepresent himself to Putin, alleging that Mnangagwa had previously appealed publicly for readmission to the Commonwealth, despite claiming not to engage with the West. He emphasized Mnangagwa's lack of awareness regarding Zambia's economic and diplomatic ties with Russia, portraying Zambia as a trustworthy partner of Russia that pursues relations openly with both the West and China.Ncube also criticized rampant corruption within Mnangagwa's administration, referring specifically to businessman Wicknell Chivayo's alleged influence and economic benefits derived from proximity to the President. He accused Chivayo of exploiting his relationship with Mnangagwa for personal gain, portraying the President as compromised and closely associated with economic criminals.Overall, Zapu's statement portrayed Mnangagwa as unfit to lead Zimbabwe due to perceived diplomatic blunders, alleged corruption, and a compromised leadership style.
Decent gains in the banking and travel-leisure sector drove European markets higher on Tuesday as stocks rebounded following a sell-off last week, as investors await central bank meetings across the continent.

Central banks in Norway and the UK are expected to hold rates steady at policy meetings this week, while the Swiss National Bank is forecast to cut by 25 basis points.

The Stoxx 600 rose 0.7% to 515.01 with indices across the region all in positive territory.

The pan-European benchmark index dropped 2.4% last week on the back of rising political uncertainty following European Parliament elections, with French president Emmanuel Macron calling for a surprise snap election and ratings agencies showing concerns about France's credit rating.

''European stock indices are on track for a second day of gains as more bargain hunters enter the fray, even though trading volumes are light ahead of the US Juneteenth holiday on Wednesday," said Axel Rudolph, senior market analyst at IG.

In economic news, the cost of living in the single currency bloc rose slightly last month as the cost of services picked up, official data showed, with the eurozone's harmonised consumer price index rising 0.2% from April to 2.6%. Tuesday's readings were in line with the preliminary estimates that had been published at the end of the previous month.

German business sentiment improved less than expected in June, according to a survey by the ZEW Center for European Economic Research in Mannheim. The headline ZEW investor expectations index rose to 47. 5 from 47.1 in May, but this was below expectations for a reading of 50.0.

Banks and travel stocks rise

Banking stocks were among the day's best performers, with French lenders Credit Agricole, BNP Paribas and Societe Generale all attempting to rebound after heavy falls over the past week.

London's HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest and Barclays were also in demand, along with Frankfurt-listed Commerzbank and Deutsche Bank and Milan's Banca MPS and BPER Banca.

Travel and leisure stocks were also on the rise, led by London-listed hotel and restaurant owner Whitbread gained as it remained confident on its full-year outlook despite flat first-quarter sales growth. Meanwhile, airlines IAG, easyJet, Air France-KLM and Deutsche Lufthansa all rose.

Also on the FTSE 100, equipment rental group Ashtead fell as profits came in shy of expectations, as the company pointed to a further moderation of growth in the coming year.

Shares in French supermarket giant Carrefour slumped after reports in domestic media said the economic and finance ministry had recommended a substantial fine against the company for its franchise network management. The report from the daily newspaper La Lettre, included a 160-page subpoena suggesting a fine of 200m, claiming around 5,200 franchisee stores contained "a significant imbalance" which profited the group.
Precision instrumentation and controls group Spectris has said full-year profits will miss current market forecasts as a result of weaker-than-expected demand at its lab equipment division in the first half.

Sales at the Malvern Panalytical division are expected to be 15m lower than previously expected in the first half, while operating profit has seen a 10m impact.

Spectris said this was driven by a "combination of weaker demand in China, a significant reduction in battery development, associated with the slowdown in sales of electric vehicles, and continued, subdued trading in pharmaceuticals".

While trading across the rest of the business has been in line with expectations, 2024 adjusted operating profits will be "at, or marginally below" the bottom end of the current 232-259m consensus range, down from 262.5m in 2023.

The news came as the company announced that Royal Mail's chief financial officer Angela Noon would be joining as its new CFO.

The appointment follows current CFO Derek Harding's move into a new position as president of the new, enlarged Spectris Scientific Division, which encompasses the Malvern Panalytical, PMS and Servomex businesses.

Noon, a chartered management accountant and former CFO at Siemens UK & Ireland, will join the board on 1 September, "bringing significant financial and commercial experience from the industrial and technology sectors", according to chief executive Andrew Heath.
The UK competition regulator has launched an investigation into Hewlett Packard Enterprise s proposed $14bn takeover of Juniper Networks , it was confirmed on Wednesday.

The Competition and Markets Authority said it wanted to assess whether the planned tie-up could result in a substantial lessening of competition.

It has invited comments from any interested party, and will decide whether to proceed with a more in-depth phase 2 probe by 14 August.

Americas HPE, which manufacturers hardware and software for data centres, agreed to pay Junipers shareholders $40 per share in January.

At the time, HPE called the deal an important inflection point in the industry and said it would change the dynamics in the networking market.

In particular, HPE - which was split off from HPs computer and printers business in 2015 - wants Juniper to help boost its AI offerings.

HPE and Juniper have yet to comment on the decision. US markets were closed on Wednesday for the Juneteenth national holiday.

Interested parties have until 3 July to comment.
Vodafone Group confirmed several days of speculation on Wednesday, as it announced the sale of 484.7 million shares in Indus Towers, representing 18% of Indus' share capital, through an accelerated bookbuild.

The FTSE 100 telecoms giant said the transaction raised INR 153.0bn (1.7n) in gross proceeds.

It said the funds would be used to significantly repay Vodafone's existing lenders concerning the 1.8bn outstanding bank borrowings secured against Vodafone's Indian assets.

Post-sale, Vodafone retains 82.5 million shares in Indus, which equated to a 3.1% shareholding.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

A recent report from the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has highlighted the dire condition of numerous buildings, with 161 structures identified as dilapidated and condemned. Most of these buildings were flagged during inspections conducted in April 2024.The BCC revealed that its inspection department focuses on addressing unsightly, dangerous, and dilapidated buildings as per the Model Building By-Laws. Notices have been issued under statutory provisions such as Section 48 (Dangerous Buildings) and Section 49 (Dilapidated and Unsightly Buildings) of the Model Building By-Laws, as well as Section 214 of the Bulawayo (Buildings, Roads and Streets) By-Laws of 1971.Despite these measures, the council admitted to facing challenges in effectively pursuing remedial actions due to resource constraints. This includes the high costs associated with clearing and demolishing condemned structures.Among the identified buildings in the central business district, 20 have complied with regulations, 65 have partially complied, while 76 have not taken any action despite penalties imposed by the council. A total of 29 non-compliant buildings were revisited and issued final notices.The council also reported a significant decrease of 32.18% in building plan approvals, attributing this decline potentially to unsustainable fees or economic instability in the country. In April 2024, 189 building plans were processed, with 118 approved valued at US$3,077,289. Despite an increase in plan submissions by 9.35%, challenges persist in the building control section, including transport issues hampering effective monitoring.Furthermore, the report noted that inspections in April 2024 covered 1,581 buildings, resulting in visits to five public buildings and 29 dilapidated structures. Public buildings like banks, cinemas, and hotels undergo annual inspections by an interdepartmental team.Overall, the BCC continues to grapple with the management of urban infrastructure amidst economic challenges, aiming to mitigate risks posed by deteriorating buildings while navigating financial and operational constraints.
The Union Budget for FY25 is anticipated to sustain the momentum on capital expenditure (capex), continuing the trend of recent years, with a projected 25% increase over the revised estimate of FY24. As the budget is scheduled to be presented in the latter half of July 2024, covering the expenditure for the eight months ending March 2025, concerns about the capacity to execute the elevated spending within this period have emerged among experts.

Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist of the Bank of Baroda, pointed out the logistical challenges of deploying a significant capex increase over a compressed time frame. The ability to spend on so many projects in eight months is limited. Its easy to say we should have more capex, but do we have the capacity? To my mind, it will be a combination of things. If there are things in the manifesto, then there would be increased allocation towards that, including a token increase in capex, Sabnavis said.

Industry bodies such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) have emphasized the need for the capex boost to be directed towards enhancing rural infrastructure, including irrigation systems, warehousing facilities, and cold chains, which are crucial for supporting agricultural productivity and logistics.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her interim budget, proposed a 16.9% increase in the Centres capital expenditure target for FY25, raising it to Rs 11.1 trillion over the revised estimates for FY24. This increment reflects the government's commitment to bolstering infrastructure development and accelerating economic growth through strategic investments.

Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) reveal that in FY24, 25 states collectively achieved 84% of their budgeted capital expenditure. Notably, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, and Sikkim surpassed their targeted spending, underscoring effective utilization of allocated funds for infrastructure projects. Data from thereveal that in FY24, 25 states collectively achieved 84% of their budgeted capital expenditure. Notably, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Bihar, and Sikkim surpassed their targeted spending, underscoring effective utilization of allocated funds for infrastructure projects.

As the nation gears up for the new fiscal year, the emphasis on enhancing capex for infrastructure and logistics is expected to play a pivotal role in driving economic resilience and fostering sustainable development across various sectors. The upcoming budget will likely outline specific initiatives and funding mechanisms to address these strategic priorities.
From shopping to fine dining, nightlife to hotels, cities across America have unique offerings to tourists and locals alike.

But out of thousands of cities, what determines which ones are the most worthwhile? In a search for concrete answers, Dominion compiled a list to rank the most luxurious cities based on their hotels, food, travel options, recreation, shopping options, clubs and overall beauty and well-being.

Here are the top 10 finest cities in the country:

10. Boston, Massachusetts

Home to 35 colleges and the bar from Cheers, Boston may be overlooked for its fabulous shopping options. For instance, Hotels.com reports that Newbury Street is a popular and posh shopping district where youll find high-end items from world-renowned designers in extravagant surroundings. The Downtown Crossing and Prudential Center are sure to pleasure as well.

In fact, Elite Traveler asserts that the walkable city has been going through a luxury renaissance, with new hotels and dining experiences.

9. Jersey City, New Jersey

One may be surprised to associate New Jersey with relaxation, but Dominion actually ranked Jersey City as the second-best location for beauty and well-being in the country. There are a plethora of spas where guests can unwind and get pampered, including Gaias Cavern and Evolve Med Spa.

Plus, Jersey City has no shortage of Michelin-star restaurants that you can visit after a long day of relaxation.

8. Honolulu, Hawaii

If glistening waters, blue skies, relaxation and rejuvenation werent enough to convince you to visit this paradise, Honolulu is also an elite retail location. Specifically, Kalakaua Avenue is every shopaholics dream come true. With popular retail options to small boutiques, this bustling street has something for everyone.

7. San Diego, California

San Diego offers both a beautiful coast and a bustling nightlife to its tourists, according to Dominion. With stunning beaches and a comfortable climate, its hard to feel anything but bliss in this city.

For those looking to experience San Diego, youre in luck. The city is ranked highly for the quality of its hotels. Guests can have a ritzy stay at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar or the Westgate Hotel, according to Conde Nast Traveler.

6. Miami, Florida

The front of the Versace Mansion. (Getty Images/Westend61)Getty Images/Westend61

Although Miami is sixth on the list, this vibrant city is ranked number one for its hotels and within the top five for its clubs. Declared by Dominion as the ultimate party paradise, Miami is home to exclusive yacht clubs and lavish resorts. For example, an $800 per night stay at the Versace Mansion, known for pampering celebrity guests, will have you living and feeling like a Kardashian.

5. Chicago, Illinois

Its nearly impossible to be bored while living or visiting Chicago. This citys club scene is only second to New York, with Dominion describing Chicago as a place that knows how to party. Of course, no one can mention Chicago without bringing up the citys delicacy: deep-dish pizza.

According to Eater Chicago, it would be a crime to visit the city without grabbing a slice from Uncle Jerrys Pizza Company or Burts Place  after all, who said pizza cant be glamorous?

4. San Fransico, California

San Fransico offers a spectacular blend of nightlife, culinary delights, relaxation options and shopping. Well-known for its many famous historical sites, including the infamous Alcatraz Island, San Fransisco is a fabulous tourist location.

3. Los Angeles, California

When it comes to getting around in style and comfort, Los Angeles rises to the top of the list. The City of Angels is also a goldmine when it comes to incredible cuisine, from local produce to international varieties. Eater Los Angeles listed Pez Coastal Kitchen and Star Leaf as two of the citys new hottest restaurants.

2. Las Vegas, Nevada

Casinos and Elvis impersonators are not all Las Vegas has to offer. This city is ranked the top shopping destination in America, with luxury stores galore! According to Dominion, Los Vegas takes shopping to a whole new level with its designer outlets and extravagant malls.

According to Trip Advisor, the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian Resort and the North Premium Outlets are among the best places to shop in the city.

1. New York City, New York

If youre looking for the best food, clubs and recreational activities in America, NYC is the place to be. With countless rooftop bars and speakeasies, there is no doubt that youll always have an adventure in the city that never sleeps.

Secret NYC dubbed Avant Gardner in East Williamsburg, Nowadays in Ridgewood and Elsewhere in Bushwick the trendiest nightclubs in the city for this summer. Luxury in New York cannot be discussed without mentioning the iconic Plaza Hotel. With plenty of accommodations and lush options, Plaza guests can get a taste of what its like to live like Eloise.
WASHINGTON (AP)  It was the middle of the night in the summer of 2021 when I finally found the missing piece of my family history.

My great-great-great-great grandfather Hewlett Sands, born into slavery in Oyster Bay, New York in 1820, was one of the more than 200,000 names listed on the African American Civil War Memorial in Washington, D.C. That meant he was a soldier who served in a United States Colored Troops regiment that fought for the Union  and the freedom we still celebrate today.

As the screen glowed, a mix of emotions  anxiety, elation, pride  washed over me. It was the first step in understanding the story of his life. I want to share what I know about him.!

I had to resist the urge to race to the Spirit of Freedom statue and trace my fingers over his name etched on the nearby Wall of Honor. I held off until the sun came up.

This Juneteenth Im returning to the memorial to honor him and all who served our country, one that spent its first two centuries seeing most of its Black people as someone elses property. In a special ceremony, Ill carry on the more than 150-year-old commemoration of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finding out on June 19, 1865, that theyd been freed. Its been a longtime sacred celebration for many Black Americans, but only recently was recognized as a federal holiday.

Im not just going for myself or my family. I also want to celebrate Frank Smith, a civil rights leader and the memorials director, whose work preserving this lesser-known American history helped me understand where I came from and who I was.

Congratulations on finding your ancestor, Smith told me again last week over jollof rice, after he first told me that in the summer of 2021 after I found my connection to Hewlett Sands. I think it is what he says to everyone who finds their ancestor on the wall, a thank you for all those men who sacrificed.

I learned about Hewlett Sands while researching my familys history, hoping to interweave it into a book Im writing about Coretta Scott Kings work to try and transform America into the worlds first nonviolent society after the assassination of her husband, Martin Luther King Jr. in April of 1968.

Over the many decades since the Civil War, there was a lot of displacement among my ancestors; people moved away and never came back and a lot of the stories were lost.

The Associated Press religion reporter Darren Sands and his father, Lonnie Sands, pose by the gravestone of his great-great-great-great-grandfather and Civil War soldier Hewlett Sands in Westbury, N.Y., Monday, June 17, 2024. Hewlett Sands, born into slavery, served in the 26th United States Colored Infantry. He will be honored in a Juneteenth ceremony in Washington, D.C., along with about 200,000 other Black soldiers who fought to preserve the Union. (AP Photo/Darren Sands)AP

But I do know that the Sands men served valiantly in World War II. There was a newspaper headline about The Sands Family Fights with a photograph of several of them. We knew a lot more about World War II than the Civil War.

According to the records I found, Hewlett Sands was born on Nov. 29, 1820, in the home of the Townsend family, a wealthy and powerful family on Long Island who held many enslaved people before New York abolished slavery in 1827.

Its not clear to me how he spent much of his life between 1820 and 1852. He apparently worked as a farm laborer, and even as a clam digger. When he was 32, he met and married a young widow named Anne Amelia Payne, who took Sands as her last name.

In April 1861, Confederates fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina, igniting the Civil War.

In January 1864, Hewlett Sands would collect a $300 bounty and join the 26th United States Colored Troops infantry regiment, which prepared for war along with thousands of other soldiers on Rikers Island. His enlistment papers say he was 42, but in fact he was about to turn 44.

According to military records, his regiment  after enduring rugged conditions in camp -- boarded a ship named Warrior in March 1864 bound for South Carolina, where they fought in the battle at Honey Hill and other engagements.

Life after the war for Hewlett Sands was defined by a series of economic hardships. He fell and lost vision in one eye; and he lost an inheritance he intended to pass down to his family through the generations. He died on April 8, 1901, at the age of 81.

But his and Amelias son, James Edward Sands, got married and had two children, one of whom was Alfred Sands. Among Alfreds children was my grandfather Alonzo, who served with his brothers in World War II. in June 1960, Alonzo and Catherine Sands gave birth to a boy, Lonnie, who is my dad.

I had a very strong sense of connection to this idea Hewlett was risking his life for not just his family, but for a higher ideal. I think all those men shared a sense that they were doing something that was going to impact generations that they would never meet.

And now, working on this story as a journalist, I feel its part of my mission to educate and inform people about all this. And to be able to share it with my dad, my mom  all of my family.

No one living had ever seen Hewletts grave, and I went just the other day. On a cloudless day, my dad and I discovered his tombstone, inscribed Co. D 26th U.S. INF. Somehow, we felt a little closer to him, and a little closer to each other.

___

Darren Sands is a Washington-based reporter with the APs Religion Team.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Home prices are on the rise  climbing almost 6% since last year, according to the National Association of Realtors  and over the past several months, more than 33% of all the homes that sold throughout the United States were purchased above list price.

So where are these enviable purchases being made? Data journalism website Stacker analyzed data from Redfin to see exactly where property values are soaring, measuring the average sale-to-list ratio, which is the difference between what a home listed for and how much a buyer paid. In several states more than 50% of the homes on the market sold above list, with some homes selling 10% or more above asking.

Heres a look at five metros in New York state that brought in a big return for sellers, according to the data:

5. Nassau County

Average price difference: 0.96% over asking

Median list price: $699,999

Median sale price: $650,500

Total homes sold: 1,558

Share that sold above list: 52.1%

4. Albany

Average price difference: 1.47% over asking

Median list price: $325,000

Median sale price: $292,500

Total homes sold: 611

Share that sold above list: 52%

3. Syracuse

Average price difference: 3.12% over asking

Median list price: $225,000

Median sale price: $215,000

Total homes sold: 384

Share that sold above list: 59.9%

2. Buffalo

Average price difference: 4.63% over asking

Median list price: $235,000

Median sale price: $249,950 T

otal homes sold: 612

Share that sold above list: 62.7%

1. Rochester

Average price difference: 13.02% over asking

Median list price: $218,250

Median sale price: $242,500

Total homes sold: 655

Share that sold above list: 72.4%
After a surge in violence involving underage visitors in towns along the Jersey Shore, a New Jersey police department in a major tourist hotspot has announced that it will begin issuing citations to the parents of unruly juveniles.

We are pushed to our limit and we are asking parents to be responsible for the actions of their underage and unsupervised children, the Margate City Police Department noted in a Facebook post published on June 13. We, and other police departments and public officials in the state, have asked parents to better supervise their children over the past few years. To date, those calls have been met with limited, or no, success leading us to take this action to ensure the safety of those in the community.

Enforcement of the ordinance, which is titled 117-4 Parental Responsibility, will take place between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., the Facebook post notes. Any time officers observe a juvenile unsupervised and engaging in any behavior that is unlawful, potentially putting their safety at risk, or if they ignore lawful commands from officers attempting to keep them safe, the juvenile will be transported back to the Margate station where a responsible adult will be called in to take custody of the child. A summons will then be issued to the parent.

If the situation warrants, the juvenile will be additionally charged with whatever underlying offense prompted the police action, the department noted.

The announcement comes after three popular Jersey Shore spots for Staten Islanders saw major police responses on Memorial Day weekend. The Wildwood Boardwalk was shut down on the holiday due to what authorities termed civil unrest. And a youth was stabbed on the Ocean City boardwalk during a fight on that same weekend, according to reporting on NJ.com.

Meanwhile in Seaside Heights, police received a call for gunfire at the boardwalk. Although cops say they never found any evidence that a gun was fired, police found boardwalk-goers in a panic.
Prominent Sydney lawyer John Landerers home renovations plans have certainly united neighbours surrounding the $18 million Vaucluse house he bought 18 months ago from Fairfax family heir Charles Fairfax.

Landerer, a one-time confidant to the late Kerry Packer, executor to Westfield co-founder John Saunders and lawyer for Chinese princeling Jiang Wei, wants planning approval for $4.5 million worth of alterations and additions.

The application for what essentially amounts to a new dwelling with a pool seeks permission to exceed the usual the floor-space ratio and height limit on the 1081-square-metre block, and also includes a vertical glass feature (otherwise known as a large window) overlooking the neighbours backyards.

The application, designed by architect Domenic Alvaro, was rejected by Woollahra Council last year after 26 objections from the likes of NRL legend Anthony Minichiello, international lawyer Alison Pert, wife of former competition tsar Rod Sims, Daniel Chersky of investment house Alceon, socialite Angelique Andrews and real estate guns Alexander Phillips and Jason Pantzer.

Even Woollahra councillor Merrill Witt weighed in about the extent of development of the site, the distance of set-backs, the proposed height and the removal of trees.
When Nicola Coughlan, who plays Bridgertons Penelope Featherington, was at a screening in Dublin promoting part two of season three earlier this month, she was asked by a journalist if she felt brave for showing her breasts on screen.

Lets take a second to think about that. Firstly, would a man be asked that question? As in, did he feel brave showing his penis on screen? Not likely. Is it a question that would have been asked of a woman who is usually considered an acceptable size for leading lady roles? Probably not.

Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton as Penelope and Colin in Bridgerton.

Coughlan, of course, had the perfect response: You know, it is hard because I think women with my body type, women with perfect breasts  we do not see ourselves onscreen enough. I am very proud as a member of the perfect-breasts community. I hope you enjoy seeing them.

The audience laughed, Coughlan laughed and carried on, as she has for the last few months, defending her decision to get her boobs out  my idea, my choice  as she and co-star Luke Newton promoted the series, er, climax: the long-awaited sex scene between their characters, Penelope and Colin.
BETHIA CAMPBELL STEVENSON January 14, 1929-April 17,2024

Bethia Campbell Stevenson  MSW (UNSW 1981), Dip Soc Stud (Melb 1966), BA (Melb 1965)  was a remarkable woman who made a significant contribution to social work. Having grown up in difficult circumstances, she pursued her education as an adult and became a leader in the social work profession.

Throughout her life she showed compassion, kindness and generosity to her clients, colleagues, family and friends. She was well known and respected in the profession, including by such legendary figures as Norma Parker, Frances Donovan and Glad Hawkins. Bethia was active in the Australian Association of Social Workers, and in the community including the committee of management of the Abbeyfield Society (north-west Melbourne).

Bethia grew up in Brunswick, an inner-Melbourne suburb. Her parents were proud Scottish immigrants, and Bethia, who was born in Australia, identified strongly as Scottish. Bethia did not mind telling people that her father was a gambler and a boozer, and it fell to her mother to support the family financially by factory work and later by working as a cleaner at Myer.

Bethia was strongly connected with her large extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins. She was devoted to her cousin, social activist Sarah (Sadie) Hambly Neave, and they shared many of the same political views and commitments.
He is a thorough gentleman and one of the best CEOs I have ever worked with, said the manager of the USUs Sydney branch, Steve Donley. Loading However, the mayor did not share his sentiment. Matters came to a head during a heated discussion on April 16 about the budget and staffing. At a meeting with the mayor, the deputy mayor and the head of corporate services, Ajaka allegedly told Mannoun to shut the f--- up. Following a two-hour closed council session on April 24, the council voted to suspend Ajaka pending an external investigation.

Before the investigation was completed, in a private session at the next council meeting on May 29, the mayor used his casting vote to terminate the employment of John Ajaka ... without notice and with immediate effect. Despite half the council voting against the termination and lodging a recision motion, within four minutes of the meeting ending, Ajaka received an email informing him hed been sacked. Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun, left, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in April. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos This was followed by a media release, which has since disappeared from the councils website, announcing Ajakas dismissal. The release was sent by the acting CEO, Jason Breton, a former detective who ran the controversial investigation into the alleged pack rape of a 20-year-old woman by Bulldogs NRL players at a Coffs Harbour resort in 2004. No charges were laid.

Although he missed out on the CEOs job when Ajaka was appointed, Breton was given another senior role. Loading The following day, the five councillors issued a press release expressing concerns Ajaka had not been offered procedural fairness and his sacking may lead to expensive legal proceedings for which ratepayers would have to pay. They also expressed concern at the mayors actions. Mayor Mannoun is the claimant in the current investigation and therefore there is a clear conflict of interest. For him to exercise the deciding vote to determine the outcome undermines the principles of procedural fairness, their press release said.

When asked about these concerns, Mannoun said Ajakas dismissal was going to be debated at the next council meeting so it would not be proper for me - or anyone else - to comment until it is debated by the council. At the end of the day we formed a view based on Johns actions and conduct during his employment, he said. In terms of procedural fairness, theres a whole code of conduct process for that. If they thought I had breached procedural fairness they could have hit me with a code of conduct [violation] but they have not done it. Thats just the reality of the landscape  at the end of the day, Greta Thunberg isnt going to come work with me. Liverpool mayor Ned Mannoun on why he has hired many fellow Liberals to work with him In relation to the councils hiring of many Liberal-aligned political figures, Mannoun said: We have a federal Labor government and state Labor in government in every state except Tasmania. If you go out recruiting for these roles [in local government], most of the applicants are going to be Liberals. Thats just the reality of the landscape at the moment  At the end of the day, Greta Thunberg isnt going to come work with me.

Mannoun said the council had insurance to cover termination payouts but conceded the cost would be borne by ratepayers. Ned v Ajaka has been like Game of Thrones, messaged one council insider. Now we have [an] OLG inquiry which is tipped to trigger council suspension by [an] angry minister. Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig says he is concerned at the state of Liverpool Council. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos The person was referring to Liverpool Councils actions, in both the hiring and firing of Ajaka and other senior staff, becoming the subject of a probe by the Office of Local Government. The terms of reference include whether the councils recruitment process has been merit-based or whether there were any conflicts of interest which may have influenced recruitment. Whether the councils finances have suffered due to termination payouts will also be examined.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

Three Zimbabweans who were part of a drug syndicate have been jailed in Stafford, United Kingdom.Wolverhampton resident Kudakwashe Mutanga, 48, described as the syndicate's kingpin, is beginning an 18-year jail stretch while associate 39-year-old Amon Mambinge, of Willenhall, was jailed for 16 years.Dorcas Chiradza, 31, of Winforde Crescent in Leicester was also jailed for three years after it was discovered that, while serving as a probation officer in the Prison Service, she accessed probation systems to gain information on the defendants who included Arun Sahota of Wolverhampton. She was later charged with misconduct in a public office.Mutanga, the Stafford Crown Court heard on Tuesday, orchestrated the supply of over 81 kilograms of cocaine to his associates across the West Midlands and was involved in over 3 million in cash exchanges.Mambinge was found to have played a leading role in the distribution of drugs and movement of large sums of cash on behalf of Mutanga between 2020 and 2021.They pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine during an earlier hearing on June 13.Mutanga, Mambinge and Sahota were arrested in February 2022 in a simultaneous and co-ordinated arrest.
He said the women had discussed leaving and went to retrieve their phones from a bedroom, in which the lights were off, when the second woman felt someone grab her and the door close. Evans anticipated the second complainants evidence would be that she then felt a swarm of people on her, was forced onto the bed, undressed and had many hands on her body. He said the woman called out for the man she had met at the pub, and a number of males replied that they were him. There were at least three men in the bedroom at this time, Maurice [Hawell], Marius [Hawell] and Mr David, the prosecutor said. Evans said the first woman was allegedly pushed back on the bed and raped by two men at once.

She felt scared and trapped  she didnt know what to do and froze  she reached out and grabbed [her friends] hand, he said. Evans said the first woman saw three males on top of the second woman during the incident. The prosecutor said the women returned to the pub, where the first woman told her friends that they had just had an orgy and tried to make out that it was a funny situation, while the second woman kissed the man she earlier accompanied back to the Airbnb, who is not one of the accused. Evans said the first woman did not tell anybody about what had happened until early 2023. She said it was not true that she enjoyed the sex in the dark [and] she previously told police that because she didnt want to go through the court process, and wanted to forget it all, he said.

The Saturday night The prosecutor said the third complainant, a 19-year-old woman, was outside The Cambridge Hotel on the Saturday night when a man introduced himself as Jonathan and said, Come to mine for predrinks. Maurice Hawells lawyers said it was not in dispute their client had said he was Jonathan. The court heard the woman went inside the apartment and said, What about predrinks? to which Maurice Hawell allegedly replied, Well get to that. The prosecutor anticipated the third woman would give evidence that she had an overwhelming feeling of being scared and wanted to leave and started to have a panic attack. Evans alleged Andrew David was also inside the room when Maurice Hawell said, Threesome? to which the woman replied, What? No.

She did that because she did not want sexual contact with anybody, the prosecutor said. The third complainant was then allegedly raped by the two men and heard the door open and an additional male speak in a language she did not understand. The Crown alleges the third man was Marius Hawell, who was walking back and forth at the end of the bed. The court heard the 19-year-old woman left and called triple zero at about 11.06pm that night. She gave police her clothes, pointed out the apartment and was taken to hospital for examination. The defence arguments

In his opening remarks to the jury, Maurice Hawells barrister Richard Pontello, SC, said it was a case of two episodes of sexual activity among a group of adults, all of whom engaged in that activity consensually. He said his client did not accept that each of the alleged sexual acts had taken place. Davids barrister Sharyn Hall, SC, said her clients case was that anything of a sexual nature that involved him happened consensually. That is that everybody agreed to it happening, she said. Put simply, Mr David denies forcing anyone to do anything. Marius Hawells barrister Scott Corish said the 22-year-old was tagging along with his brother and his brothers friends for their bucks weekend. His case is that he did not engage in any of the sexual contact that grounds each of those counts on the indictment, or was not part of any joint criminal enterprise, Corish said. Hes the one described as having his clothes on at all times.
A Gold Coast teenager allegedly linked to online posts that ranked female students into offensive categories has been charged by police.

Police with the child protection unit had been investigating the incident, in which the Foxwell State Secondary College girls were ranked into categories including abduction material, one night stand, average, preorder, and unrapeable, since it was first reported on May 29.

The 17-year-old boy from Coomera has since been charged by police with three counts of using a carriage service to menace, harass, or cause offence.

The 17-year-old boy has been charged after online posts that ranked female students. Credit: Wayne Taylor

Senior Sergeant Greg Aubort urged the Gold Coast community to remain vigilant and report any instances of cyberbullying or online harassment.
In the heart of Footscray, shoppers pass an empty building that has sat disused and derelict for more than a decade. The former Forges site on Albert Street is boarded up, vandalised and falling apart.

Flanked by other rundown sites, its not alone. Nearby, the block that was home to the Little Saigon Market  which burned down in 2016  sits empty and fenced off.

Warren Penna outside the former Forges site in Footscray, where land banking is increasingly becoming an issue. Credit: Chris Hopkins

It has prompted accusations of land banking  the practice of buying land as an investment and holding onto it for future use.

Long-term resident Warren Penna is among those who are fed up. He wants the local council to clamp down on property owners who fail to develop significant land holdings.
I anticipate there will be a long and detailed discussion with all Australians, in particular for our purposes here in Victoria, the people of Gippsland, he said. On Wednesday, Dutton announced a plan  based on the Coalition winning the next election  to build seven nuclear power plants across mainland Australia on the sites of former coal power plants at Lithgow and the Hunter Valley in NSW, Loy Yang in Victoria, Tarong and Callide in Queensland, Collie in Western Australia and Port Augusta in South Australia. He said they would all be operating by 2050. Wendy Farmer from Voices of the Valley. The group rallied outside their federal MPs office on Wednesday. Credit: Joe Armao Wendy Farmer, a spokeswoman for the Voices of the Valley community group, said there would be strong anger in the Latrobe Valley region if a nuclear plant were built. She said many residents would be worried about how waste would be handled and the prospect of something going wrong that could trigger a nuclear emergency.

We are not a dumping ground, she said. Farmer also raised concerns about stability and vulnerability to disaster given the fault line underneath Traralgon. Geoscience Australia mapping data shows a number of significant fault lines in the Latrobe Valley, including a definite neotectonic feature running directly past the Loy Yang A power station. But Dr Adi Paterson, a former chief executive of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, said reactors on fault lines  such as the one at Koeberg in South Africa  were built on foundations with seismic bearings. He said they used standard technology for other buildings in earthquake zones to absorb the impacts.

Seismic risk could be eliminated for reactors and doing so did not significantly alter the cost of construction, he said. I have stood under the reactor at Koeberg and looked at the bearings, and its the same technology at all seismically active plants around the world, Paterson said. Latrobe Mayor Darren Howe says the community needs more details about the nuclear plan. Credit: Joe Armao Farmer, whose husband worked at the former Hazelwood power station, said there was little chance a nuclear plant could begin operating at Loy Yang by the 2030s. Its a ridiculous idea, a fantasy that has no detail, no plans, she said of the Coalitions proposal.

On Wednesday, Farmer led a small rally outside the Traralgon electorate office of federal Nationals MP Darren Chester, calling on the opposition to abandon the nuclear proposal. Latrobe Mayor Darren Howe said the ground was stable around Loy Yang, but the planned plants location was one of many factors that needed examination. The community needed clear information and to be consulted about the Coalitions nuclear plans, he said. Its important they know the facts. Many Traralgon residents and leaders believe the Latrobe Valley desperately needs to attract new industries and create more jobs, particularly after the closure of the Hazelwood coalmine and power station in 2017.

Loading Bruce Bell, owner of lighting shop Light and Shade, said the closure of coal-fired power plants in coming decades and the recent loss of forestry-related jobs meant the region had to attract new employers. Bell said the Latrobe Valley was already equipped to accommodate power generation, so it made sense to put a plant on the site of former coal-fired stations. All the power lines come here, he said. Weve got heavy industry thats designed around the power stations. Traralgon resident and businessman David Clark wanted more detail about the plan.

Certainly people want the job opportunities, he said. But you say the word nuclear and it starts to bring up some divisions. Former economist and Traralgon resident Nigel Purchase opposed the plan and said a nuclear power plant was unlikely to materialise. Traralgon business owner Bruce Bell says the Latrobe Valley needs to attract more employers. Credit: Joe Armao I dont think its going to happen because its too expensive, Purchase said. Australia needed to make greater use of renewable energy resources, he said.

What you want is something you can produce cheaply in a factory, like solar panels or wind turbines. Credit: Matt Golding When asked whether he would promise Victorians that he would not support the removal of the states moratorium on nuclear energy, Pesutto, the state opposition leader, called on the media to change politics and not play those games. Youre getting well ahead of yourselves. We have no plans for it; I cannot be any clearer than that, but we acknowledge that a future federal government may initiate that discussion, he said. Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh said his party had the same view as the state Liberals.

The Victorian Nationals havent been [campaigning for nuclear]. We are very much of the view that we want to make sure that we guarantee price of power, the affordability of power, the availability of power in the short to medium term, which is why weve been talking about the need for more gas into the system, Walsh said. Seismology Research Centre chief scientist Adam Pascale said the risk of an earthquake in the Latrobe Valley would certainly need to be considered if engineering a nuclear power facility. That part of Victoria is above average in its seismicity. There are faults everywhere, whether you have managed to map them or not, he said. Pascale said while Australia was a geologically stable continent, an earthquake with a maximum magnitude of 7.5 was possible. If we had a magnitude 7.5 very close to a facility, then it would be a big problem. The Turkey earthquakes from the start of last year were around that sort of magnitude. Youd need a very engineered structure to withstand that sort of shaking at closer range, he said.

Loading Dr Tamarah King, an earthquake hazard scientist at Geoscience Australia, said building a nuclear facility on a fault line would require more study. The International Atomic Energy Agency, of which Australia is a member state, provide strict and rigorous regulations and guidelines for scientifically quantifying seismic hazard at a local scale for nuclear power plants and other nuclear facilities, she said. This includes detailed identification and characterisation of potentially capable faults which may pose a risk to the facility over its lifetime. With Mike Foley
On Wednesday, Dutton said the government had a renewables-only policy which is not fit for purpose. But he conceded his policy had not yet been costed. We will have more to say in relation to the cost in due course, and, as you know, weve done this in a step-by-step process. The focus today is on the sites, Dutton said. Dutton said a future Coalition government would start by building either small modular reactors  which are not yet in commercial production  or a large-scale reactor. He said the small reactors could be operating by 2035, while the larger would produce electricity by 2037. That contradicts the CSIROs timelines, which have previously found the first nuclear reactors could not be built until 2040 and would cost up to $16 billion each to build in Australia. The CSIRO said construction costs could fall to $8.6 billion but noted the first reactor would likely cost double because of the expense of kick-starting the industry from scratch. Proposal rejected by state premiers, some Nationals MPs, industry players The premiers of the states, which have their own bans on nuclear that would need to be overturned, were quick to reject the plan. NSW Premier Chris Minns said he would not remove the states nuclear ban, although the state opposition said they were open to it. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan vowed to fight Duttons proposal, while Opposition Leader John Pesutto said his party had no plans to introduce it.

Cracks within the Nationals over the policy appeared as Nationals leader David Littleproud was forced to haul his deputy, Perin Davey, into line. Several of the partys NSW state MPs also vowed to oppose reactors if their communities objected to them. Davey on Wednesday said the opposition would not impose a nuclear reactor against a communitys wishes and declared there were no plans to seek alternative sites beyond the seven already identified. If a community is absolutely adamant, then we will not proceed, but we wont look beyond these seven sites, she said. But Littleproud told the ABC that comment was not correct, and we made this very clear. Peter Dutton and David Littleproud, as part of a Coalition government, are prepared to make the tough decisions in the national interest, he said. NSW Bathurst MP Paul Toole said he would campaign against the proposal for a plant at the Mount Piper coal plant in Lithgow. The announcement lacks detail and raises more questions than answers. Ill be backing the views of my community 100 per cent. NSW Nationals Upper Hunter MP Dave Layzell similarly told the Daily Telegraph he rejected the plan to build a reactor on the Liddell coal plant in his electorate. I do not accept a federal government decision to lob a facility onto the community of the Upper Hunter, he said.

In a separate interview, Liberal Senator Jane Hume could not name which of the two Loy Yang power stations would be the site of Victorias new plant, and suggested either could be considered when they retire. Victorian Nationals MP Darren Chester, whose seat of Gippsland includes the Latrobe Valley coal-fired power stations, said the area had some strategic advantages because of existing transmission infrastructure and a skilled workforce. But he cautioned, more detailed investigations will be required in the years ahead. Peter Duttons nuclear power plants will be built at seven sites around the country. Credit: Monique Westermann I will be listening to locals, consulting the experts, and putting the needs of Gippsland and Latrobe Valley first, and endeavouring to act in the national interest at all times, he said. But South Australian Liberal MP Rowan Ramsey, whose seat of Grey includes the town of Port Augusta, welcomed the policy because there would be a lot of jobs in the build, probably hundreds of jobs over the life of the reactor.

There will be an economic zone, and a portion of that power from the reactor will be allocated to the economic zone, and it will be up to [the] community to decide how they use it to attract new industries or businesses, he said. The owners of some of the coal plant sites targeted for nuclear development, including AGL, Origin, EnergyAustralia and Alinta, have previously said they have no plans to develop nuclear energy in Australia. Origin Energy, the largest Australian power and gas supplier, warned that time and cost would be massive issues, while the Australian Industry Group also flagged concerns about cost and the increase in government debt. AGL, the owner of two of the locations earmarked for nuclear reactors, reiterated its warning that the debate risked derailing critical investment in the clean energy transition. Labor says Duttons plan is economic madness Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the Coalitions nuclear policy as a fantasy that markets would not fund because it was 15 years away. This is a recipe for higher energy prices, for less energy security, less job creation. This is economic madness, he said on ABC Melbourne.

Energy Minister Chris Bowen accused the opposition of formulating a nuclear policy to boost the life of fossil fuels. They say they want to pause renewable energy, and that is what this policy is designed to do  to slow or stop renewable energy, to rely on coal for longer as we wait for this nuclear fantasy to come about, he said. Illustration: Matt Golding The Australian people now have a very clear choice: stick with the plan, or go with this uncosted, un-modelled fantasy that Mr Dutton is proposing today. Dutton last week said the Coalition remained committed to net zero emissions by 2050 but would not reveal its interim climate targets until after the federal election, due by May next year. The opposition leader has mounted a campaign against the Albanese governments renewable energy plans by arguing that they will drive up power bills and destabilise the grid. On Wednesday, Dutton made an unsubstantiated claim that the federal governments plans to supercharge renewable energy would cost more than $1 trillion and said nuclear energy would cost a fraction of that.
Something big was missing from Opposition Leader Peter Duttons pledge to build nuclear reactors across Australia.

He promised sites  seven of them  scattered across Australia. He said they would save their small rural communities and keep the lights on 24/7 in the face of Labors renewables-only policy. And there would be jobs, thousands of them, to rescue Australias apparently faltering economy.

However, like a salesman who spruiks a product but wont reveal the cost to buyers, Dutton refused to tell Australians how much they would pay for his nuclear vision.

Doh! Peter Dutton as Homer Simpson. Credit: John Shakespeare

He said the first two sites would be operational between 2035 and 2037, and the remaining five would be online by mid-century but conceded his policy had not yet been costed. We will have more to say in relation to the cost in due course and, as you know, weve done this in a step-by-step process. The focus today is on the sites, he said.
The Federal Court of Australia spent more than $34,000 over two years on bottle shops, including nearly $13,000 at Dan Murphys, for judges events, ceremonies and other functions, using taxpayer-funded credit cards, government audit records reveal.

The court, which spent more than $6000 over three occasions at one Bondi cellars alone, is one of three federal agencies marked down by the Australian National Audit Office over their corporate card use, along with the influential Productivity Commission and the agency overseeing the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

The Federal Court spent more than $34,000 at bottle shops over a two-year period. Credit: Louie Douvis

The audit released this week found the court spent $13,673 in the financial year 2021-22, and $20,609 in 2022-23, but had no documented pre-approval for the vast majority of sampled transactions, even though the courts own rules say pre-approval must be recorded as soon as possible.

The FCAs [Accountable Authority Instructions] state that decisions to spend money on official hospitality must be publicly defensible, the report said, detailing one episode in which a cardholder made three transactions at Dan Murphys in the one day which, combined, exceeded the $1000 limit for a single purchase.
There is a difference between writing chalk slogans on a footpath calling for Climate Action Now or Free Julian Assange, and engaging in criminal acts that incite hatred and vilify over race and religion. Regardless, and most importantly, here is what the vandalism on my office did not do. It did not bring peace in the Middle East one inch closer. It did not return Israeli hostages. It did not help the suffering of the Palestinian people.

It did not help anything at all. Loading One cannot be for peace in the Middle East, while acting violently here in Australia. Personally, the dream of seeing peace between the Israelis and Palestinians is part of who I am. As a Jewish person, it is not a political issue I choose to follow; it has plagued my family for generations. As a Jewish person, I dont control  nor condone  what happens in the Middle East. As a member of parliament, I cant click my fingers and end this war. However, as an Australian and as a leader, I can say loudly and clearly that I reject the binary way which debate has played out in our community. The conflict in the Middle East will not end because of discriminatory and intimidatory actions here.

I refuse to accept that believing in self-determination of the Palestinian people conflicts with the self-determination of the Jewish people, and I refuse to accept that debate in Australia needs to be in absolutes. We have the responsibility to engage in political debate in the Australian way  with respect, civility and passion. We can reject the politics of blame, intimidation and violence. We can hold a shared humanity that recognises the terrible atrocities committed against the Israeli people on October 7 while also recognising the devastating humanitarian crisis being suffered by the Palestinian people. Multiculturalism changed my familys destiny. My grandparents left war-torn Europe to come to Australia for freedom and security. They got that and so much more. Australia, for my family, gave us a sense of belonging, opportunity and dignity. The Australia that I grew up in was one that celebrated this multiculturalism, where the Jewish community could express themselves freely; where we could proudly walk down the street, not thinking about where we were, but just participate freely in Australian life. Today, that is not the case.

Jewish Australians now constantly question how they present themselves in public, fearful of how other members of the community may respond. Do I wear a yarmulke (head covering)? Do I wear items that visibly show that Im Jewish? Do I wear my school uniform? Do I attend university?

Thats a terrible thing for any people, for any Australian, to be experiencing. Loading And I know the Jewish community is not the only community feeling isolated and experiencing prejudice. When one community is made to feel unsafe, everyone is unsafe. After waking up to six people smashing in my office, it is clearer than ever that our problem is not on the other side of the world, it is here. It is in what we can control. Yes, we must continue to call for an end to the war between the Israelis and Palestinians. But, today most importantly, we must confront the problems we have influence over  the disintegration in political discourse, our civility towards each other and the way we discuss hard issues.
Main Street, Lithgow, is a waning shrine to its former self. This town of coal and iron ore, pottery and armaments was once so big that by the end of the 19th century, it had a brewery. By the beginning of the 20th, it had built a picture palace, such was the demand from the steel mills and mines surrounding it.

Now it has dozens of vacant shopfronts and a smattering of residents on its high street who describe it as neglected, depressed and struggling to varying degrees.

Coal-fired Mount Piper Power Station, west of Lithgow, is now a proposed site for a nuclear plant. Credit: James Brickwood

If the Coalition gets its way, it will also have a nuclear power plant.

Opposition Leader Peter Duttons plan to bring nuclear to the centre of the Blue Mountains is either foolhardy or worth the risk, depending on who you talk to in this divided town that straddles water catchments 150 kilometres west of Sydney.
For Glen Fearnett, the past few years have been about hope. Hope that he would be heard. Hope that those who heard would listen. And hope that by speaking out about the sexual abuse he suffered as a child at a Melbourne bayside school, things would change.

On Wednesday, the Allan government announced it would adopt all recommendations in a board of inquiry report that found a cluster of abuse at Beaumaris Primary School in the 1960s and 70s was insidious but not isolated.

Glen Fearnett is pleased more victim-survivors will have the chance to tell their stories. Credit: Penny Stephens

Fearnett had pinned his hopes on recommendation three in the board of inquirys findings, delivered in February.

Of the nine recommendations, this was the one he most wanted to see adopted: a truth-telling process that would give victim-survivors a voice. A chance to be heard in a supportive setting.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

A 51-year-old Chinese man has been charged with rape after a 17-year-old Gweru teenager gave birth, the National Prosecuting Authority said on Monday.The man has not been named, but prosecutors say he worked together with the victim at a mine where she was employed as a general hand.In a statement, the NPA said: "It is the state's case that on November 15, 2022, the accused person raped the victim on the floor in his office. He fired her soon after the commission of the offence."Prosecutors say the victim did not make a police report immediately and the matter came to light when she fell pregnant and confided in her mother about the alleged rape."The victim gave birth to a baby girl in 2023. A police report was made on June 13, 2024, leading to the arrest of the accused person," the NPA said.The alleged rapist has been remanded in custody to June 28 after making a brief appearance before a Gweru magistrate on Monday.
Asfooras group 1 victory in the King Charles III Stakes  her first in a promising but not yet elite career  has elevated her name to the greats of Australian racing. In the past 20 years she is now the eighth Australian-trained horse to win at this track. Six Aussie sprinters have now won the race formerly known as the Kings Stand Stakes. Asfoora follows Choisir (2003), Takeover Target (2006), Miss Andretti (2007), Scenic Blast (2009) and Nature Strip (2022) on the honour roll. We had the initial idea 14 or 16 months ago when she won a couple of 1000-metre races at Caulfield, Dwyer said. We just knew our options in Australia were limited because we have very few five or 5-furlong [1000 and 1100-metre] sprints. All our good sprints are six furlongs [1200 metres], and she just doesnt get that. She is a dyed-in-the-wool five-furlong horse.

Asfoora having won a couple of group 2 races and twice been placed at the top level, Dwyer conceded the mad-cap plan to take his horse to one of the worlds great racing carnivals had its doubters. The horse was passed in at the Magic Millions sale in Adelaide as a yearling. But Dwyers racing team spotted something special and struck a deal with Akram El-Fahkri, who bred Asfoora at his Noor Elaine Farm in Euroa, northern Victoria. It led to a trusting combination that has now delivered on Dwyers self-described audacious plan. A second-generation migrant, El-Fahkri traces the origins of his passion for four-legged creatures to the mule on his parents farm in Lebanon.

His flight to London to watch his horse was his first trip to Europe. He said after the race that he owed his lot to his parents, who  like many from Europe or the Middle East  arrived in Australia in the 1950s seeking a new start. Loading And now I am winning at Royal Ascot, he said after the race. Im not sure about the hat and the tails, but I will take the win. But he took no credit for the win. It was, he said, all Dwyers doing. And he admitted it irked him that some in the racing game had been unable to see Asfooras promise. Her runs in Australia were credit-worthy, and I couldnt say no when he mentioned it. I felt strongly she was a winning chance, but it would be naive to think we can just turn up and win, he said.

El-Fahkri, who owns a taxi business in Melbourne among other business interests, didnt doubt Dwyers plan. He was generous enough to help with many of the costs. More than 40 owners from Dwyers operation made the trip to Royal Ascot, along with El-Fahkris wife, sons, 93-year-old mother and nephew. Jockey Oisin Murphy plants a kiss on the silverware after riding Asfoora to victory in the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot. Credit: Getty Images It is one of the most satisfying things to win a race here, El-Fahkri said. It means everything. Jockey Oisin Murphy, an Irishman who refined his trade in Australia a decade ago under Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Danny OBrien, rode just about the perfect race. She hit the front around 150 metres from home, cruising past $3.75 favourite Big Evs, and never looked beat.

Im thrilled for connections. Its brave to come from Australia with all the travel, Murphy said after the race. How good was she? Im over the moon. Asfoora has been based at Amy Murphys yard in Newmarket since the end of April. Footage of her befriending a goat named Gary in the paddock was shared widely on social media not long after her arrival. Trainer Henry Dwyer (far left) with Asfooras connections and the King after the horses win at Royal Ascot. Credit: Getty Images for Ascot Racecourse Her cobwebs were blown away with a fourth-place finish in the Temple Stakes at Haydock, near Liverpool in northwest England, last month, but she reached her peak when it mattered to conquer the fastest horses in Europe. Dwyer, who operates on a modest scale from Ballarat, said if she had stayed any longer in Australia, she would have started growing a winter coat. And the long lead-up time gave her a chance to season and settle in.

Its very hard to find these sorts of horses when youve only got 40 in work, and we dont expect it, he said. Its an absolute luxury to have a mare like this, and for Akram to entrust me to train her. Expensive horses ultimately should go against Dwyers better judgment as an accountant, and he says hed expected to be broke by the age of 30. He won a couple of group 1 winners a decade ago, notably a Queensland Derby winner, Sonntag, but conceded hed had a bit of a dry spell since. This mare deserved one. She has had so much go against her in the group 1s in Australia. To get a group 1 [win] at home is great, but to be at Royal Ascot and get a group 1 is just amazing, Dwyer said. Having now fully acclimatised to her new surroundings, Asfoora will remain in Newmarket. Two more big British races are on her agenda; the King George Stakes at Goodwood and the Nunthorpe at York.
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 Australia has already dealt with a Trump presidency  but what could it look like the second time around? See all 5 stories . US Republicans traditionally put high value on relationships with Americas allies, but what exactly is an ally, and how do you differentiate between an ally and a mere friend? One former senior official liked to put it this way: We die for our allies; we like our friends. This was the stark distinction drawn by Rich Armitage, a Republican and former US deputy secretary of state. Donald Trump has a very different idea of US commitment to allies: Ive been saying, Look, if theyre not going to pay, were not going to protect, OK?  he said in February, speaking of the US allies in NATO. Not only would he refuse to protect an ally who hasnt paid, hes said hed actually encourage an enemy to do it harm. If Russia were to attack such an ally, said Trump, I would encourage them [the Russians] to do whatever the hell they want. So on these definitions, a traditional Republican is prepared to die for a US ally, while a MAGA Republican is prepared to sacrifice one. This is a profound difference, one with potential to transform the world order. Donald Trumps admiration for Chinese President Xi Jinping is well known. Credit: AP One of the defining differences between the US and its most formidable rival, China, is that America is the centrepiece of a constellation of some 40 allied nations, including all the most important rich nations on Earth.

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By contrast, China has one treaty ally, North Korea, which it despises, and a few ragtag satrapies that are not so much allies as clients: Pakistan, Cambodia and Laos. As a Chinese government official put it to an American interlocutor a few years ago: You got the good ones [allies]. China and Russia signed a so-called no-limits partnership in 2022, and theyve increased co-operation in dramatic fashion. But this is no alliance.

Essentially, a war-weakened Moscow is submitting to Beijing, 10 times Russias size economically. Russian analyst Alexander Gabuev describes Putins Russia as Chinas new vassal. Pandering to Russia, impressed by Xi And Moscows mistrust of Xi Jinping runs so deep that Russia tested its nuclear-capable Iskander missile in areas bordering China last year. Twice. Nonetheless, Xi has portrayed the partnership as the locomotive of history. As he finished his visit to Moscow last year, Xi shook Putins hand and said: Right now there are changes, the likes of which we havent seen for 100 years. And we are the ones driving these changes together. But nothing changes the world order more drastically than the choices of the biggest locomotive of all.

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Its very telling that, to date, neither Russia nor China has dared strike a US treaty ally. The gains by Moscow and Beijing have been achieved by creeping around the edges of the US and its alliance system. They have not dared challenge it. Trump has not only threatened to abandon the defence of NATO members in Europe, hes also toyed publicly with the idea of abandoning the defence of Japan and South Korea, too, treaty allies all. To Trump, nothing is sacred and everything is negotiable. If Trump were to act on these threats to abandon allies, he would fundamentally upend the world order. The US-centric alliance system collapses if the centrepiece pulls out. At the same time, hes consistently indulged Americas rivals. Hes pandered to Russia most conspicuously but also flouted his love affair with Kim Jong-un and openly admired Xi Jinping. Trumps first reaction to the news that Putin had launched a full-scale war on Ukraine by raining cruise missiles on residential areas of Kyiv was to declare it a genius move.

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Hes since said that hed end the Russian war against Ukraine in a day. How? He hasnt explained publicly, but he told Hungarian leader Viktor Orban that he will not spend a penny to help Ukraine, according to Orban. In other words, hed abandon Ukraine and hand victory to Russia. Trump is dead impressed by Xi: He runs 1.4 billion people with an iron fist. Smart, brilliant, everything perfect. Theres nobody in Hollywood like this guy. Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump meet during the G20 summit in Japan in 2019. Credit: Getty Images And he expressed admiration for Chinas exploitation of the US open trade and investment systems: Theyve taken advantage of our country, and you know what, I respect them for it. Trump went so far in ingratiating himself with Chinas dictator that he endorsed his historic mass repression of the Uyghur people in re-education camps. Trump said that Xi should go ahead with building the camps, which Trump thought was exactly the right thing to do, writes John Bolton, a one-time national security adviser to Trump, recounting a meeting between the two leaders. Deal of the century

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But Trump waged a trade war against China, imposing big tariffs on its exports to the US. So how can he be accused of appeasing the Chinese dragon? He also followed Australias lead in banning Huawei from its 5G network, beginning a hardening of US systems that continues to this day. Loading Bolton, who was at Trumps side in the White House at the time this was happening, explains that Trump took nine months to follow the Australian precedent because he was hoping to cut a big trade deal with Xi: He was prepared to trade Huawei away for the deal of the century with Beijing, Bolton told me. Everything was on the table. In other words, if Xi had been minded to cut a deal with the US, Trump would have left Australia isolated as the only country to ban Huawei, vulnerable to any punishment Beijing might have chosen to inflict. As this example illustrates, Trump is, at core, transactional. He fancies himself a brilliant dealmaker. Remember the title of his memoir, The Art of the Deal? A treaty alliance counts for nothing. This is consistent with Trumps dealings with all treaties; he cheerfully withdraws from solemn US treaty commitments on everything from climate to trade. This should no longer surprise us. Why would he care about a treaty with another nation if he wont respect the fundamental treaty governing the US itself, the Constitution, as he amply demonstrated by cheering on the January 6 Capitol riot. Its all transaction, no principle.

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PHILIPSBURG:--- The TNO report was commissioned by the Dutch government to assess the needs of the Caribbean countries as they seek to transition to more sustainable energy solutions. The report should serve as a basis for the Dutch funding program SDE ++ and has recently been presented to the Second Chamber, the MP explained. From that report, we see again how far behind we are on the topic of renewable energy.

It is like I made clear during the parliamentary meeting on Monday. We can not put off decisions on renewable energy transition until we are out of the current energy dilemma. We have not accomplished much in better times, except for a very ambitious energy policy that never really saw the light of day.

I have asked that the mentioned TNO report be a topic for a committee meeting of parliament, so we can keep the pressure on the implementation of an alternative energy policy by the government of St. Maarten. I have reasoned in my request for a meeting on renewable energy that this report, compiled by TNO, examined the state of the energy transition in the so-called CAS countries, MP Wescot further stated.

In the Central Committee meeting of Monday, June 17th, only sporadic mention was made of the Dutch funding program(s) available to the Caribbean countries, and with the frequent annotation thereby that a St. Maarten energy transition plan is necessary to initiate talks with the Dutch government regarding available funding for alternative and renewable energy conversion.

There also appeared to be some reluctance to pursue an energy transition program at this time due to the magnitude of the energy crisis the country currently finds itself in. St. Maarten has to get to the forefront of this program and react to the TNO study with urgency.

The government of St. Maarten needs to take a stance on this report and adjust our energy goals with haste. We do not need another study, as the expertise to get us there is available.

Its unfortunate that we have not synchronized our efforts to embark on a sustainable path of energy transition, rather each party is pursuing its own, Government of Sint Maarten: Gridmarket, GEBE: Energynautics and the Netherlands: TNO.

With the above, the MP outlined her reasons for an urgent meeting of the VROMI committee of Parliament with the respective minister(s) and other stakeholders which the government of St. Maarten believes can contribute to arriving at an urgent combined plan for energy transition.

MP Wescot concluded with two other reasons for prompt action, namely to ensure that with the new government of the Netherlands taking office shortly, St. Maartens part in the funding program (SDE ++) is guaranteed.

And the MP continued, The added value of this proactive approach is that we can turn around the negative image and reputation labels that we are slowly but surely being branded with. Its like when the fact of us being in the hurricane belt is used against us, and we would turn that around and highlight the resilience of the St. Maarten people, in and out of season.
~ Company was in a coma when I took the helm in September 2022 --- Troy Washington~

PHILIPSBURG: --- Management of NV GEBE held a press conference on Wednesday to update the public on the company's state of affairs.

Temporary Manager Troy Washington made clear that when he was appointed in September 2022, his core task was to assess the company whose system was hacked, causing a major setback, especially when it comes to billing and collection of funds.

Washinton said the company was lagging due to the hack; the commercial department suffered tremendously while there were shortcomings in production. Back then, the management team worked on both a short-term and long-term plan, all of which required finances, and at that time, he said GEBE was preparing its 2019 financial statements, making it almost impossible to secure financing when Corporate Governance requirements were not being respected.

Since then, NV GEBE has worked on its 2020 and 2021 financial statements, which should be finalized soon. The company intends to work on its 2022 and 2023 statements, which would bring the company up to date by the end of 2024.

Not having the companies financial statements in order in 2020 presented a tough task for management to address all the problems it faced. With that in mind, that does not mean the company would not secure financing, but it would have made it way more tedious.

Washington said the company was in a comatose state when he took over its management, meaning that since then, he has been dealing with one crisis after another. He made clear that the management of NV GEBE knows of the companys shortcomings and has been working rigorously to solve those issues.

He said management had discovered the potential energy crisis in January 2024 and had been working on short-term solutions to deal with their shortcomings. Still, they did not anticipate engine 19 to fall out due to its crankshaft failure.

On Sunday, June 16th, the Supervisory Board of Directors held an extraordinary meeting. They gave Washington the signing power to finalize all agreements for NV GEBE to lease containerized generators. Washington further explained that the negotiations will be completed by the end of this week, and the agreements will be signed.

As for the power barge, Washington said that after taking NV GEBE out of a deep hole, he could not put the company back in such a hole when he knew it was cash-trapped.

The barge available to St. Maarten was 78 megawatts, while NV GEBE wanted to purchase 20 megawatts. However, after all calculations, they concluded that it was not financially feasible for the company. He said the company intends to absolve the cost of leasing the generators, but they must do so responsibly. When he took over the management of NV GEBE, he made clear that the company was in a dire financial state, and it would have been very irresponsible of him to tie the company into any form of debt since it could not sustain the cost of the barge on a long-term basis. I could not in good conscience do a disservice to the company, the population, and the staff of NV GEBE. I cannot see myself as a responsible individual making such a decision, so I looked at other solutions.

The Temporary Manager explained that only 95% of NV GEBE customers are now being billed, while only 50% of those customers are paying their monthly bills. He said some time ago, it was stated that GEBE had restored 75% of its data, which he said was untrue. Washington said that only 35% of the data had been recovered when he took office. However, all data have been recovered today, and NV GEBE has been working on getting its billing up to date. The Commercial Department is busy working on its May and June bills. However, they are urging all clients of NV GEBE to begin paying their bills because NV GEBE will have to resort to disconnection sometime soon.
SABA:--- Saba continues to make strides in working towards active coral reef restoration in a number of ways. Most recently, out of 70 proposals submitted to SIA, part of the Dutch Research Council in relation to applied research, Alwin Hylkema's ReefGrazers proposal (on behalf of Van Hall Larenstein) for grazer restoration ranked number one. The project, a collaboration between PES, SCF, Stenapa, Stinapa, VHL University of Applied Sciences (VHL), Wageningen University, and WWF, will receive funding for the upcoming two years.

The researchers aim to identify novel species of native invertebrate grazers with the dual purpose of reef restoration and fisheries diversification. Coral reef grazers, such as sea urchins, whelks, and king crabs, are an essential part of reef ecosystems, keeping the coral reef areas healthy through the consumption of most types of algae, thereby making more space for corals to grow and for new larval corals to settle. Some of these species are also edible or even considered a delicacy. The ReefGrazer project will study the feasibility to culture these species for reef restoration and fisheries.



In addition, the NEPP Saba Coral Restoration plan was approved by the Ministry of LNV.

This coral restoration plan was written in 2023, in collaboration with Saba Conservation Foundation, University of Applied Sciences Van Hall Larenstein (VHL), Wageningen University and PES and aims to increase the health of Sabas coral reefs, ensuring important ecosystem services such as tourism, recreation and fisheries. In this project, the SCF will culture and outplant corals, while VHL will culture and restock sea urchins.



The two research projects complement each other, and both help with reaching the NEPP goal to improve the health of coral reefs. Over the past decades, the health of the coral reefs around Saba has deteriorated for several reasons, including disease among sea urchins, land erosion and rise of sea water temperature due to climate change. Coral reefs provide a basis for ecosystems that feed a large variety of marine life and are therefore essential for marine biodiversity. Additionally, healthy coral reefs can act as a buffer for shorelines from storms and associated waves and currents, as they absorb the wave's energy.

Besides active coral and reef grazers restoration through the coral restoration plan, the Public Entity also works on minimizing the impact of environmental stressors that impact coral reef health, for example with the active reforestation initiatives to reduce erosion.

Both coral projects will facilitate a better understanding of the factors which impact the health of coral reefs and what is needed for more active reef restoration, highlighting Saba as a research island.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

President Mnangagwa has arrived in South Africa for the inauguration of his South African counterpart, President Cyril Ramaphosa.South Africa's African National Congress and the Democratic Alliance have agreed to form a coalition in which the former liberation movement and the pro-business party will set aside their rivalry in an historic governance pact. The ANC lost its parliamentary majority in 29 May elections for the first time since it swept to power in 1994 at the end of apartheid.The swearing-in, which will be graced by world leaders, will be held tomorrow at the Union Building in Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa.The President is accompanied by the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira; Deputy Chief Secretary, Mr George Charamba, and senior Government officials.He was received at the Waterkloof Air Force base by Zimbabwe Ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi and South African Government officials.The free-market-supporting DA, which received almost 22% of the vote, backed Ramaphosa's election by lawmakers for a second term.An ANC-DA coalition was favoured by large businesses and international investors.Two smaller parties, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a Zulu nationalist party, and the Patriotic Alliance (PA), which wants to bring back the death penalty and deport illegal immigrants, have also said they will join the government.The inclusion of the IFP, which received 3.8% of the vote, is seen as a way to deflect criticism of the ANC for working with the white-led DA. The PA, led by the self-described reformed bank robber Gayton McKenzie, got 2% of the vote and has its support base in South Africa's Coloured communities.The ANC's vote share collapsed in large part due to the new uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, named for the ANC's armed wing during apartheid. It came a surprise third place in the election with 14.6% of the vote, just six months after it was launched by the former president Jacob Zuma in December, who has feuded bitterly with Ramphosa since being forced to resign the presidency in 2018.The MK party, which wants to replace constitutional democracy with parliamentary supremacy, boycotted parliament's opening, after a legal challenge to the election results was rejected by the country's top court. It has said it would not work with the ANC while it is led by Ramaphosa, who said that potential coalition partners needed to respect the constitution.Meanwhile, the far-left Economic Freedom Fighters, who were sworn in as MPs in their trademark red overalls, some wearing hard hats and rubber boots, were among the parties that turned down Ramaphosa's call to join a "Government of National Unity" (GNU).
China elder care sector plugs smart gadgets to fill workforce gaps



Shanghai, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



With internet-connected sleep monitors, robotic arms and calorie-counting cafeteria plates, China's elder care industry is hoping automation will provide the solution to an ageing population and a shrinking workforce.

Hundreds of retirees were among visitors to a crowded industry fair in Shanghai this week, thronging booths touting everything from luxury retirement homes to physiotherapy robots.

China's population has declined since 2022 after more than 60 years of uninterrupted growth, prompting fears of a future labour crunch and growing pressure on its healthcare system as millions of citizens enter old age.

Rather than relying on people -- traditionally one's children -- to provide care, many of the fair's exhibitors showcased technological attempts to solve the demographic conundrum.

Yu, a 64-year-old visitor, was among a crowd watching a company demonstrate its automated stair-climbing machines alongside devices designed to lift people from their beds into wheelchairs.

He told AFP he was impressed.

"Nowadays there are fewer and fewer young people, and more and more old people, so these smart products can provide better services for older people," he said.

Yu said he had already purchased smart wheelchairs and beds for older family members, including a 90-year-old relative he was caring for.

Elsewhere, an array of smartwatches, motion detectors and temperature monitors at Shenzhen-based tech firm Innopro's booth promised families constant surveillance of their elders.

Targeting busy workers or those living apart from their loved ones, the company also boasts nursing homes and local governments among its clients.

"For institutions, they hope to save on labour costs because they usually need to conduct checks every night," employee Jin Guohui told AFP.

"This device can reduce their work," Jin said, showing off a small, SIM card-equipped white box that monitored sleeping patterns and signs of life.



- 'Figuring it out' -



For customers of Eihoo Health Management, an operator of senior citizen cafeterias, it's their dinner plates that keep watch: the plates are embedded with chips that identify the food being served.

A cash register at check-out reads the chips and delivers an instant nutritional report complete with calorie count and breakdown of macronutrients -- cutting workloads for service staff and health workers.

Regular diners can set up payment cards that track their weight, nutritional habits and health status.

At another booth, students from Shanghai's Jiao Tong University tinkered with the code for a robotic arm designed to help elders with limited mobility perform daily tasks such as eating and turning doorknobs.

The turn to high-tech solutions is a stark contrast to the traditional Chinese ideal of ageing at home under the care of family members.

Shi Wenjun, a 73-year-old visitor, said there were "definite differences" for elderly Chinese today compared to previous generations.

"We are all parents of only children... our children are nearly 50 and they have their own work and families, so when we're old, we will choose the elder care organisations provided by the government, group forms of elder care," she told AFP.

"If older people can use smart technologies, they won't bother others," Shi said.

Shi, a volunteer who organises activities for other seniors in her neighbourhood, said she had caught up with many new technologies, including smartphones.

"But for a lot of things, we are still in the process of learning and figuring it out," she said.
Amazon to invest extra 10 bn euros in Germany



Frankfurt, Germany, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



Amazon said Wednesday it will invest an additional 10 billion euros ($10.7 billion) in Germany, most of it in cloud computing, the US tech giant's latest major investment in Europe.

A total of 8.8 billion euros will come from Amazon's cloud computing division AWS and will be invested in southwest Germany by 2026, with the rest going into logistics, robotics and company offices.

The investment comes on top of 7.8 billion euros announced last month by AWS towards building a "sovereign cloud" centre in Germany.

The first sovereign cloud complex will be set up in the state of Brandenburg, and will be operational by the end of 2025.

The new system is to address concerns of some European countries and public agencies, which have been reluctant to resort to cloud computing for fear data would be transferred to other jurisdictions, notably the United States.

With its recently announced investments, Amazon said it was hiring thousands of new workers in Germany, taking its total number of permanent employees in the country to about 40,000 by the end of the year.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on X that the investments showed that Germany remained "an attractive business location".

"As the government, we are working on precisely this: strengthening our competitiveness," he said.

Germany, Europe's top economy, sees attracting new investments in high-tech fields as crucial as it struggles to emerge from a period of weakness.

The tech giant has also in recent times announced major investments to expand data centres in Spain and to develop cloud infrastructure and logistical infrastructure of its parcel delivery system in France.

A pioneer of e-commerce, Amazon's AWS also dominates cloud computing with 31 percent of the market at the end of 2023, according to Stocklytics.

But rivals Microsoft and Google are gaining ground.

sr/fec/cw

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Booking.com sounds alarm on AI-enabled travel scams



Toronto, Canada, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



As travellers rush to book their summer getaways, Booking.com's internet safety boss says watch out for supercharged AI scams.

Marnie Wilking, Chief Information Security Officer at the Netherlands-based travel giant, said generative AI had sparked an explosion in online phishing scams, and that the hospitality industry, long spared, had also become a target.

"Over the course of the last year and a half, throughout all industries, there's been anywhere from a 500 to a 900% increase in attacks, in phishing in particular, across the globe," Wilking told AFP on the sidelines of the Collision technology conference in Toronto.

Phishing scams are a type of cyber attack where criminals attempt to trick victims into revealing sensitive information such as login credentials or financial account details.

Travel websites can offer a rich bounty to phishing scammers since travelers are often asked to share credit card and family details or upload ID.

"Of course, we've had phishing since the dawn of email. But the uptick started shortly after ChatGPT got launched. The attackers are definitely using AI to launch attacks that mimic emails far better than anything that they've done to date," she said.

With generative AI tools, the scammers can now work in multiple languages and with good grammar, Wilking said.

They are also "really taking advantage of the helpful nature of hospitality."

To be helpful to a supposed guest, a hotel owner is "probably going to open up the attachment" that is actually malware, she said.

Wilking said that in order to stay safe travelers and hosts should sign up for two-factor authentication when surfing online.

In addition to providing a username and password, two-factor authentication requires users to verify their identity through an added factor, such as a one-time code sent to their mobile device or generated by an authenticator app.

"I know it can be a little bit painful just to set up and then you have to remember which phone it's on and everything," she said.

However, the extra step "is still hands down the best way to combat phishing and credential stealing," she said.

And "don't click on anything that looks suspicious, even if you think it might be real. If there's even a little bit of doubt, call the property, hosts, and customer support," she said.



- Fake property? -



Wilking said Booking.com and other major companies are cooperating closely and increasingly relying on AI to help in the fight.

AI, for example, is helping thwart the proliferation of fake properties on platforms that are actually a bid to scam the user.

Scammers "set up a fake property that looks like it's in the Swiss Alps. Every other property around it is $1,000 a night and this one's on sale for $200."

"We've set up AI models to detect those and either block them from getting on there to begin or take it down before there's any booking," she said.

Though it remains modest for now, travel sites have seen the rise of suspected state actors, reported to be Russia and China, that are trying to cause online mischief or snoop on customers.

"Why would a nation state go after a hotel chain? Well, if it's a hotel chain that they know is frequented by a US senator, why wouldn't they go after that?" she said.

arp/dw




Massive fire in military ammunition depot in Chad's capital



N'Djamena, June 18 (AFP) Jun 18, 2024



A massive fire erupted late Tuesday at a huge military ammunitions depot in Chad's capital N'Djamena, said Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah.

Blasts from the depot in the capital's Goudji area near the airport were heard miles away, AFP journalists said, adding that weapons went off into the sky at regular intervals and detonated, turning it red and black.

Koulamallah, who is also the government spokesman, said on Facebook that there were "huge explosions" at the site and urged the population to keep calm.

"The biggest ammunition depot in N'Djamena has caught fire," a senior army official told AFP.

dwi-rmyas-jbo/ach/rsc
News / Local

by Staff reporter

The Constitutional Court has dismissed Home Affairs' latest attempt to overturn a High Court judgment that found the government's termination of the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) regime was unlawful.The apex court ruled on Tuesday Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi's appeal "bears no reasonable prospects of success."Due to the ruling and pending Motsoaledi implementing a proper decision, existing ZEPs remain valid until November 2025.In June last year, three judges in the High Court directed the minister to reconsider the termination of the ZEP permit programme, "following a fair process" that complies with the relevant laws.Pending the outcome of that process, the judges ruled, the permits would remain valid for another 12 months (until the end of June 2024), and ZEP-holders had protection from arrest and deportation.The case was brought by the HSF and the Consortium for Refugees and Migrants in South Africa after the minister announced the end of the programme in 2021.Subsequently, he granted further extensions but remained adamant that the 178 000 permit holders must either apply for other visas, if they qualified for them, or return "home".In their ruling, Judges Colleen Collis, Gcina Malindi and Mandlenkosi Motha (writing as the court) said the minister had made no attempt to solicit representations from those affected before he took the decision.The first call for representations had been done "after the fact" and was not a "genuine consultation".The invitation was "meaningless", they wrote, and from affidavits before the court, it appeared that there was a "notable disdain for the value of public participation".The judges said the minister's failure to consult, made the decision to terminate the programme unfair and irrational, because no attempt had been made to assess the impact on the ZEP holders and their children and the current conditions in Zimbabwe.In November 2023, the HSF launched an urgent application seeking an "enforcement order" of the June 2023 ruling after the minister, failing to get leave to appeal from the Pretoria court, indicated he was intent on appealing by petition to the SCA.The HSF believed that this meant the judgment would be automatically suspended, which would put ZEP holders at risk of deportation while the appeal process played out.But the judges dismissed the application, saying it was not needed and that their judgment guaranteed the rights of ZEP holders until at least June 2024, despite the pending appeal.
US still reviewing one bomb shipment for Israel: Blinken



Washington, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



The United States bristled Tuesday after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested ally Washington was withholding critical weapons to his country as it wages war against Hamas in Gaza.

"Let me just start off by saying that we genuinely do not know what he's talking about," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters.

With the exception of "one particular shipment of munitions" that US officials were looking at closely, Jean-Pierre said "there are no other pauses. None."

Secretary of State Antony Blinken had said earlier Tuesday that Washington is "continuing to review one shipment... with regard to 2,000-pound bombs because of our concerns about their use in a densely populated area like Rafah," a city in southern Gaza.

But the top American diplomat said other weapons were moving as usual and that Washington was "making sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself."

The pointed reaction from the White House came hours after Netanyahu said Blinken had assured him the US government was working "day and night" to address the delay in the arrival of the weapons.

In a video statement, Netanyahu said that while he appreciated America's support during the Gaza crisis, he also said he told Blinken "it's inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel."

The United States is Israel's main military backer, but the White House has voiced frustration over the rising civilian death toll in Gaza, where Israel has conducted more than eight months of operations against Hamas.

The unprecedented October 7 attack by Palestinian militants on southern Israel that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

Hamas militants also seized 251 hostages, of whom Israel believes 116 remain in Gaza, including 41 who the army says are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive aimed at eliminating Hamas has killed at least 37,372 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the territory's health ministry.
Deadly fire at military ammunition depot in Chad's capital



N'Djamena, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



A deadly fire erupted late Tuesday at a huge military ammunition depot in Chad's capital N'Djamena, causing weapons to fire into the air, the government and witnesses said.

Blasts from the depot in the capital's Goudji area were heard miles away, AFP journalists said, adding that projectiles turned the sky red and black as they shot into the air at regular intervals and detonated.

"The roof of our house was blown off by one of the explosions," said resident Kadidja Dakou, who lives in the Amsinene area near Goudji.

The 36-year-old and her three children took refuge in the street alongside their neighbours, for fear their houses would collapse, she told AFP by phone.

President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno said people had been killed and wounded in the blaze, without giving precise figures.

"Peace to the souls of the victims, sincere condolences to the grieving families and a speedy recovery to the wounded," Deby wrote on Facebook, promising to open an investigation into the fire.

Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah, who is also the government spokesman, said on Facebook that there were "huge explosions" at the site and urged the population to keep calm.

There are multiple homes in the neighbourhood hosting the depot, which sits near the international airport and a base where French troops are stationed.

The blaze "caused explosions of ammunition of all calibres", an official with the French forces told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Chad's president officially won 61 percent of a May 6 vote that international NGOs said was neither credible nor free and which his main rival called a "masquerade".

Deby was proclaimed transitional president in April 2021 by a junta of 15 generals after his father, president Idriss Deby Itno, was shot dead by rebels following 30 years in power.

dwi-rm-yas-jbo-gir/rsc/cwl
Taiwan president says island 'will not bow' to China's pressure



Taipei, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said Wednesday that China was attempting to force the self-ruled island into submission but that it would not bow to pressure.

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has said it will never renounce the use of force to bring it under Beijing's control.

In recent years, Beijing has upped military and political pressure on the Taipei government, with the latest show of force coming three days after Lai's inauguration, when China conducted war games around the island.

Speaking at a press conference Wednesday marking his first month in office, Lai said: "The annexation of Taiwan is a national policy of the People's Republic of China".

"In addition to military force, they have increasingly employed non-traditional methods of coercion to try to force Taiwan into submission," he said.

"However, Taiwan will not bow to the pressure. The people of Taiwan will resolutely defend national sovereignty and uphold the democratic and free constitutional way of life."

He also reiterated that Taiwan would seek "to avoid conflict".

"The people of Taiwan love peace and are kind to others, but peace must be backed by strength... True peace is not just empty words, peace guaranteed by strength is real peace," he said.

China had said the war games -- launched days after Lai's May 20 inauguration -- were "punishment" for his inaugural speech, which Beijing dubbed a "confession of Taiwan independence".

Encircling Taiwan with warships, fighter jets and coastguard vessels, China said the three-day drills -- dubbed Joint Sword-2024A -- were a test of its ability to seize control of the island.

After the exercises, Beijing vowed military pressure would continue "as long as 'Taiwan independence' provocations continue".

Taiwan -- separated from China by a narrow strait -- has its own government, military and currency.

Lai is regarded as a "dangerous separatist" by China and has hewed closely to the rhetoric of his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen, saying that there is no need for Taiwan to formally declare independence as it is "already independent".

But Lai and Tsai's Democratic Progressive Party has long stood on a platform of Taiwanese sovereignty, and China has not conducted top-level communications with Taipei since 2016.

Since his election in January, Lai has signalled an openness to resuming dialogue with China, including calling for both sides to develop exchanges in his May inaugural speech.

However, China has appeared to rebuff those overtures.

It continues to maintain a near-daily presence of naval vessels and warplanes around the island, so-called grey zone tactics that fall short of an outright act of war but serve to exhaust Taiwan's military.

In recent months, Chinese coast guard ships have also been spotted around Taiwan's outlying islands, at times briefly entering its restricted waters.
Deadly fire at army ammo depot in Chad's capital



N'Djamena, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



A deadly fire erupted at a huge military ammunition depot in Chad's capital N'Djamena, sending powerful explosions into the night sky and shaking buildings miles from the blast.

The explosions from the late Tuesday blaze turned the sky red and could be heard miles away as ordnance fired off in the flames at regular intervals, according to AFP journalists and witnesses on the scene.

President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno said people had been killed and wounded in the blaze, without giving precise figures.

"Peace to the souls of the victims, sincere condolences to the grieving families and a speedy recovery to the wounded," Deby wrote on Facebook, promising to open an investigation into the fire.

The sky burst into flames above the Goudji area, where the army's largest depot of ammunition is located, for several hours before tapering off and finally ceasing after midnight.



- Roof blown off -



The explosions shook buildings as far as seven kilometres (four miles) away and the flames were visible for miles.

"The roof of our house was blown off by one of the explosions," said resident Kadidja Dakou, who lives in the Amsinene area near Goudji.

The 36-year-old and her three children took refuge in the street alongside their neighbours, for fear their houses would collapse, she told AFP by phone.

Authorities had cordoned off the area with a heavy security presence, where thick red smoke hung in the air long after the blasts stopped.

Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah, who is also the government spokesman, said on Facebook that there were "huge explosions" at the site and urged the population to keep calm.

There are multiple homes in the neighbourhood that is the site of the depot, which sits near the international airport and a base where French troops are stationed.

The blaze "caused explosions of ammunition of all calibres", an official with the French forces told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"For the moment, no French military personnel have been wounded", he said.

Chad's president officially won 61 percent of a May 6 vote that international NGOs said was neither credible nor free and which his main rival called a "masquerade".

Deby was proclaimed transitional president in April 2021 by a junta of 15 generals after his father, president Idriss Deby Itno, was shot dead by rebels following 30 years in power.

Chad, one of the world's poorest nations, is considered vital in the fight to stop the march of jihadists through the Sahel region.

burs/yad/jm
Deadly fire breaks out at Chad army ammunition depot



N'Djamena, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



A deadly fire broke out at a huge military ammunition depot in Chad's capital N'Djamena, sending powerful explosions into the night sky and shaking buildings miles away.

The explosions from the late Tuesday blaze turned the sky red and could be heard miles away as ordnance fired off in the flames at regular intervals, according to AFP journalists and witnesses on the scene.

Government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah said early Wednesday that the cause was not "criminal" but an investigation was under way.

He said the death toll was still being established but there were not "many" civilian victims. According to initial indications, several people died in the ammunition storeroom, he said.

"There are fewer deaths and less damage than we foresaw. We were expecting dozens and dozens of deaths. In the end, the collateral damage isn't very big," Koulamallah, who is also foreign minister, told AFP by telephone.

"There aren't many civilians who lost their lives."

The sky burst into flames above the Goudji area -- where the army's largest depot of ammunition is located -- for several hours before tapering off and finally ceasing after midnight.

The explosions shook buildings as far as seven kilometres (four miles) away and the flames were visible from far off.

"The roof of our house was blown off by one of the explosions," said resident Kadidja Dakou, who lives in the Amsinene area near Goudji.

The 36-year-old and her three children took refuge in the street alongside their neighbours, for fear their houses would collapse, she told AFP by phone.

"The soldiers had time to evacuate the vehicles, heavy weapons etc. and were able themselves to take shelter," Koulamallah said.

Authorities are due to hold a media conference late morning.



- Roof blown off -



President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno previously had said people had been killed and wounded in the blaze, without giving precise figures.

"Peace to the souls of the victims, sincere condolences to the grieving families and a speedy recovery to the wounded," Deby wrote on Facebook, promising to open an investigation into the fire.

Authorities had cordoned off the area with a heavy security presence, where thick red smoke hung in the air long after the blasts stopped.

Koulamallah had earlier said on Facebook that there were "huge explosions" at the site and urged the population to keep calm.

There are multiple homes in the neighbourhood that is the site of the depot, which sits near the international airport and a base where French troops are stationed.

The blaze "caused explosions of ammunition of all calibres", an official with the French forces told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"For the moment, no French military personnel have been wounded", he said.

Chad's president officially won 61 percent of a May 6 vote that international NGOs said was neither credible nor free and which his main rival called a "masquerade".

Deby was proclaimed transitional president in April 2021 by a junta of 15 generals after his father, president Idriss Deby Itno, was shot dead by rebels following 30 years in power.

Chad, one of the world's poorest nations, is considered vital in the fight to stop the march of jihadists through the Sahel region.

burs/yad-kjm/yad
French far right 'doesn't plan to question' France's international commitments



Villepinte, France, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



French far-right chief Jordan Bardella said Wednesday that he "doesn't plan to question the commitments France has made on the international stage" on defence if he takes power after a snap poll called by President Emmanuel Macron.

"Our credibility towards our European partners and NATO allies is at stake," Bardella, 28, said at the Eurosatory arms trade show outside Paris, moderating the far right's historic hostility to the Atlantic alliance.

Bardella leads the National Rally (RN), whose three-time presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said in 2022 that if she were elected, France would quit NATO's integrated command in the name of "independence".

Her protege has said during the lightning campaign ahead of the June 30 first round of Macron's snap poll that he would not leave the structure as long as the war in Ukraine "is still going on".

Macron's camp made the RN's longtime admiration for Russia and its leader Vladimir Putin a key part of campaigning in 2022, when the centrist leader was re-elected against Le Pen but lost his parliamentary majority.

A massive loan the party received from a Russian bank in 2014, which it has since repaid, became a stick for its opponents to beat the RN with.

France's hard left has also long railed against NATO, joining in criticism in April when the country's only aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, came under the alliance's operational control for a two-week mission in the Mediterranean.
Fighting in Gaza's Rafah as tensions soar on Israel-Lebanon border



Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territories, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



Israeli air strikes and clashes between troops and Palestinian militants rocked Gaza on Wednesday, as Israel's army warned it had readied an "offensive" against the Lebanese Hezbollah movement on the country's northern front.

Witnesses and the civil defence agency in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip reported Israeli bombardment in western Rafah, where medics said drone strikes and shelling killed at least seven people.

The Israeli military has announced a daily humanitarian "pause" in fighting on a key road in eastern Rafah, but a UN spokesman said days later that "this has yet to translate into more aid reaching people in need".

More than eight months of war, sparked by Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, have led to dire humanitarian conditions in the Palestinian territory and repeated UN warnings of famine.

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has been shut since Israeli troops seized its Palestinian side in early May, while nearby Kerem Shalom on the Israeli border "is operating with limited functionality, including because of fighting in the area", said UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq.

He told reporters that in recent weeks, there had been "an improvement" in aid reaching northern Gaza "but a drastic deterioration in the south".

"Basic commodities are available in markets in southern and central Gaza. But... it's unaffordable for many people."

The war has sent tensions soaring across the region, with violence involving Iran-backed Hamas allies.

The Israeli military, which has traded near-daily cross-border fire with Lebanon's Hezbollah since October, said late Tuesday that "operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved and validated".

On Wednesday the military said its warplanes had struck Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon overnight, while reporting a drone had infiltrated near the border town of Metula in an attack claimed by Hezbollah and targeting troops.

The Iran-backed group also announced the death of two of its fighters.

Lebanon's official National News agency reported Israeli strikes on several areas in south Lebanon on Wednesday morning, including on the border village of Khiam, where an AFP photographer saw a large cloud of smoke.



- 'Total war' -



The army's announcement that its plans for an offensive in Lebanon had been approved, along with a warning from Foreign Minister Israel Katz of Hezbollah's destruction in a "total war", came as US envoy Amos Hochstein visited the region to push for de-escalation.

Syrian state media said an Israeli strike on military sites in the country's south killed an army officer on Wednesday. Israel has not commented on the report.

In Gaza, Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian armed group that has fought alongside Hamas, said its militants were battling troops amid Israeli shelling of western Rafah.

Witnesses reported seeing Israeli military vehicles enter the city's Saudi neighbourhood, followed by nighttime gun battles.

Parts of central Gaza also saw fighting overnight, with witnesses reporting artillery shelling and heavy gunfire in Gaza City's Zeitun neighbourhood.

The October 7 attack that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

The militants also seized 251 hostages. Of these, 116 remain in Gaza, although the army says 41 are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 37,396 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the territory's health ministry.

At least 24 people died over the past day, the ministry said.

In a message on the occasion of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, US President Joe Biden called for the implementation of a ceasefire plan he outlined last month.

Hochstein said the plan would ultimately lead to "the end of the conflict in Gaza", which would in turn quell fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

But US, Qatari and Egyptian mediation efforts have stalled for months since a one-week truce in November that saw dozens of hostages freed and increased aid deliveries into Gaza.



- 'Minimise civilian harm' -



Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced mounting criticism at home over his handling of the Gaza war and hostage crisis, with regular mass demonstrations led by captives' relatives and anti-government activists.

Thousands gathered in front of parliament in Jerusalem on Tuesday night, calling for early elections and the resumption of truce talks.

In a video recording, Netanyahu criticised close ally Washington for "withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel", in remarks rejected by the White House.

Except for "one particular shipment of munitions" that US officials were looking at closely, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said "there are no other pauses. None."

Hochstein on Tuesday evening returned to Israel for more talks with Netanyahu after a series of meetings in Lebanon, according to an Israeli official.

Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders, have pending arrest warrants requested against them at the International Criminal Court for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

A UN report issued Wednesday detailed six "indiscriminate and disproportionate" Israeli strikes that killed at least 218 people in the first two months of the war.

It said the strikes involved "the suspected use" of heavy bombs -- a shipment of which the United States had paused in May over concerns Israel might use them in its Rafah assault.

The strikes targeted "densely populated" areas including refugee camps, a school and market, the UN rights office said, making the use of heavy bombs "highly likely to amount to a prohibited indiscriminate attack".

UN human rights chief Volker Turk said: "The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid, or at the very least minimise to every extent, civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign."

More than six months since the attacks featured in the report, "there is no clarity as to what happened or steps toward accountability", Turk said.

burs-ami/dv
Chad ammo depot blaze kills nine, wounds dozens



N'Djamena, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



A fire that tore through a huge military ammunition depot in Chad's capital N'Djamena killed at least nine people and wounded dozens more, officials said Wednesday, warning the toll could rise.

The blaze, which started late on Tuesday, sent powerful blasts into the night sky and the exploding ordnance shook buildings miles away.

Chad's Health Minister Abdelmadjid Abderahim told journalists that the toll was in danger of rising as many of the 46 wounded were in an "extremely serious" condition.

A visit to the scene Wednesday revealed unexploded shells and other munitions scattered on the ground and the burnt-out wreckage of what looked like military vehicles.

Government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah said the cause was not "criminal" but an investigation was under way.

According to initial indications, several people died in the ammunition storeroom, he said.

"There are fewer deaths and less damage than we foresaw. We were expecting dozens and dozens of deaths," Koulamallah, who is also foreign minister, told AFP by telephone. "There aren't many civilians who lost their lives."

The sky burst into flames above the Goudji area -- where the army's largest depot of ammunition is located -- for several hours before tapering off and finally ceasing after midnight.

The explosions shook buildings as far as seven kilometres (four miles) away and the flames were visible from far off.

"The roof of our house was blown off by one of the explosions," said resident Kadidja Dakou, who lives in the Amsinene area near Goudji.

The 36-year-old and her three children took refuge in the street alongside their neighbours, for fear their houses would collapse, she told AFP by phone.

"The soldiers had time to evacuate the vehicles, heavy weapons etc. and were able themselves to take shelter," Koulamallah said.



- Burned -



Regional Planning Minister Mahamat Assileck Halata told reporters at the scene that the fire was "contained" and the situation was under control.

Nearby, gutted buildings could be seen and at least one huge crater was visible in the grounds of the military camp.

"I call on people to remain calm and serene and to avoid handling any object that may have landed," Assileck said, adding deminers were at work.

President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno during the night offered his condolences to victims' families.

The grieving family of a six-year-old girl sat in front of ruined houses in Amsinene after a shell fell in the room of the child, killing her, the family told AFP.

"She burned to death, we couldn't get her out" of the house, her cousin, who did not want to be named, said.



- Iron fist -



Authorities had cordoned off the area with a heavy security presence, where thick red smoke hung in the air long after the blasts stopped.

There are multiple homes in the neighbourhood that is the site of the depot, which lies near the international airport and a base where French troops are stationed.

The blaze "caused explosions of ammunition of all calibres", an official with the French forces told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"For the moment, no French military personnel have been wounded", he said.

Chad's president officially won 61 percent of a May 6 vote that international NGOs said was neither credible nor free and which his main rival called a "masquerade".

Deby was proclaimed transitional president in April 2021 by a junta of 15 generals after his father, president Idriss Deby Itno who had ruled with an iron fist for 30 years was shot dead by rebels.

Chad, one of the world's poorest nations, is considered vital in the fight to stop the march of jihadists through the Sahel region.

burs/yad-kjm/jm
Romania's Iohannis to make NATO statement as Dutch PM seen taking over



Bucharest, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



Romania's President Klaus Iohannis plans to make an announcement Thursday about his bid to become NATO chief, after his rival candidate Mark Rutte of the Netherlands got backing from EU holdout Hungary.

Iohannis's withdrawal would clear the way for the Dutch prime minister to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as head of the defence alliance later this year.

"About NATO, more tomorrow. I will present these issues first to the CSAT (Supreme Council of National Defence), then to the public," Iohannis said at a news conference Wednesday alongside Italian President Sergio Mattarella, who was visiting Bucharest.

"Tomorrow afternoon you will be fully informed and we will move forward," he said.

Iohannis, 65, has vowed to bring a "renewal of perspective" to the alliance as a member of its eastern flank.

"It is time" for Romania, which joined NATO in 2004, to "assume an even greater responsibility within the Euro-Atlantic leadership", Iohannis said when announcing his bid in March.

Leading NATO powers spearheaded by the United States are pressing to get an agreement on a new head of the alliance before a summit meeting in Washington next month.

Romania, which borders Ukraine and the Black Sea, has gained increased strategic importance since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The country hosts more than 5,000 foreign troops, the largest contingent anywhere in NATO's southeastern region.

The nomination of a new NATO secretary general requires consensus from all 32 alliance members, and most appear ready to back Rutte -- though Hungary had remained opposed until this week.

On Tuesday, Hungary's nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban said he was "ready to support" Rutte's candidacy after securing a guarantee from the Dutch leader that Budapest would not have to contribute to any coordinated NATO arms deliveries for Ukraine.

Rutte currently serves in a caretaker capacity as prime minister and is set to leave his position in the coming weeks once a new Dutch government is installed.
China's Xi vows to boost crackdown on corruption in military



Beijing, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



China's President Xi Jinping has vowed to boost his crackdown on corruption and enhance loyalty within the armed forces, state media reported Wednesday.

Xi has waged an unrelenting crackdown on deep-seated corruption since coming to power a decade ago, a campaign critics say is a tool to purge political rivals.

China's former defence minister Li Shangfu was sacked abruptly last year in unexplained circumstances and replaced weeks later by the incumbent Dong Jun.

Xi addressed China's top brass on Monday at a meeting of the Central Military Commission in the northwestern city of Yan'an, state broadcaster CCTV said.

He urged participants to "eradicate the soil and conditions in which corruption thrives (and) expand the depth and breadth of the anti-corruption struggle", CCTV said.

Xi also called on the military to "strengthen the all-round supervision of senior cadres in exercising their duties and using their powers".

The meeting took place as China and its regional neighbours have butted heads in recent months over territorial claims in the hotly disputed South China Sea.

China also held war games last month around Taiwan, the self-ruled island that it claims as part of its territory and has vowed to seize one day, by force if needed.

"The situation in the world, country, party and army are undergoing complex and profound changes," Xi said, according to CCTV.

"We must unceasingly promote political army-building... and always dare to fight and win."
News / National

by Staff reporter

The United States says it has not abandoned Zimbabwe contrary to President Emmerson Mnangagwa's remarks in Russia that America is currently strongly supporting Zambia and Malawi to spite Zimbabwe where it imposed targeted sanctions on some ruling party officials for alleged corruption and human rights violations.In a statement, the Charge d'Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Harare, Ms. Elaine French, shrugged off suggestions by Mnangagwa that America is isolating Zimbabwe in favour of the other two nations.French said, "The United States has been and will continue to be a reliable partner with the people of Zimbabwe. Our more than $5 billion in health, humanitarian, and development assistance since Zimbabwe's independence has rehabilitated health clinics, provided lifesaving medications, and now has helped families make ends meet during this devastating drought. The United States is not running away. It is making good on its commitment to support the health and prosperity of Zimbabwe's 16 million people."She said America is currently providing needed help in tackling a devastating drought that has crippled the southern African nation, and has over the years poured in over $5 billion for various projects.She noted that in January this year, the US committed an additional USD$11 million in food and security support to Zimbabwe."In addition, in 2024 US Presidential Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief PEPFAR committed another USD$209 million to the HIV response in Zimbabwe," said French.USA Embassy says Zimbabwe is not under sanctions as only 11 individuals are under restrictive measures imposed on those said to be involved in corrupt activities and election rigging."We are supporting what our president said while in Russia. Apart from that we want USA to remove all targeted sanctions imposed on Zanu-PF officials which are hurting the whole nation," said Marapira.In his remarks, Mnangagwa praised Putin for defending the sovereignty of Russia, adding that he is "my dear brother".Mnangagwa was captured in a video telling Putin in St. Petersburg on the sidelines of an investment summit that he is looking for strong support from Russians as Americans, Britons and others have dumped Zimbabwe.He said, "We are anxious to have more comprehensive and concentrated relations between ourselves. Yes, we are a very advanced country; but there is a lot that we can learn from you and there is a lot that will benefit from that relationship. And there is a lot that we can open for the Russian Federation to participate in our economy, especially in the mining sector and agriculture. There is a lot that we can afford for you to participate."And in that process, the West will run away. You see, the West has just begun consolidating its power in Zambia, our next neighbour. You know, there was a time when Zambia and Zimbabwe were one; it was called Northern and Southern Rhodesia. It was made one by the British, but they are now separate. And the Americans are consolidating their power in that country, both in terms of security and in terms of financial support to Zambia to make sure that we feel lonely."Mnangagwa said despite the USA's move to back Zambia and Malawi, Zimbabwe won't give up in strengthening relations with Russia.
Fighting in Gaza's Rafah as tensions soar on Israel-Lebanon border



Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territories, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



Israeli air strikes and clashes between troops and Palestinian militants rocked Gaza on Wednesday, after Israel's army warned it had readied an "offensive" against the Lebanese Hezbollah movement on the country's northern front.

Witnesses and the civil defence agency in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip reported Israeli bombardment in western Rafah, where medics said drone strikes and shelling killed at least seven people.

The Israeli military has announced a daily humanitarian "pause" in fighting on a key road in eastern Rafah, but a United Nations spokesman said days later that "this has yet to translate into more aid reaching people in need".

More than eight months of war, sparked by Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, have led to dire humanitarian conditions in the Palestinian territory and repeated UN warnings of famine.

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has been shut since Israeli troops seized its Palestinian side in early May, while nearby Kerem Shalom on the Israeli border "is operating with limited functionality, including because of fighting in the area", said UN deputy spokesman Farhan Haq.

He told reporters that in recent weeks, there had been "an improvement" in aid reaching northern Gaza "but a drastic deterioration in the south".

"Basic commodities are available in markets in southern and central Gaza. But... it's unaffordable for many people."

The war has sent tensions soaring across the region, with violence involving Iran-backed Hamas allies.

The Israeli military, which has traded near-daily cross-border fire with Lebanon's Hezbollah since October, said late Tuesday that "operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon were approved and validated".

On Wednesday the military said its warplanes had struck Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon overnight, while reporting a drone had infiltrated near the border town of Metula in an attack claimed by Hezbollah targeting troops.

The Iran-backed group also announced the death of four of its fighters.

Lebanon's official National News agency reported Israeli strikes on several areas in south Lebanon on Wednesday morning, including on the border village of Khiam, where an AFP photographer saw a large cloud of smoke.

Hezbollah later said it had fired "dozens of Katyusha rockets and artillery rounds" towards a barracks in Kiryat Shmona in northern Israel in retaliation for the attacks.

Israel said the Hezbollah attack did not cause any casualties and that its own "artillery struck the sources of fire".



- 'Total war' -



The Israeli army's announcement that its plans for an offensive in Lebanon had been approved, along with a warning from Foreign Minister Israel Katz of Hezbollah's destruction in a "total war", came as US envoy Amos Hochstein visited the region to push for de-escalation.

Former Israeli security officials were split on the significance of the approval, with one telling AFP there would be an operation in Lebanon "within a few weeks" while another said the government was "more interested in a ceasefire".

Syrian state media said an Israeli strike on military sites in the country's south killed an army officer on Wednesday. Israel has not commented on the report.

In Gaza, Islamic Jihad, a Palestinian armed group that has fought alongside Hamas, said its militants were battling troops amid Israeli shelling of western Rafah.

Witnesses reported seeing Israeli military vehicles enter the city's neighbourhood of Saudi, followed by nighttime gun battles.

Parts of central Gaza also experienced fighting overnight, while witnesses reported artillery shelling and heavy gunfire in northern Gaza City's Zeitun neighbourhood.

The October 7 attack that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

The militants also seized 251 hostages. Of these, 116 remain in Gaza, although the army says 41 are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 37,396 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the territory's health ministry.

At least 24 people died over the past day, the ministry said.

In a message on the occasion of the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, US President Joe Biden called for the implementation of a ceasefire plan he outlined last month.

Hochstein said the plan would ultimately lead to "the end of the conflict in Gaza", which would in turn quell fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.

But US, Qatari and Egyptian mediation efforts have stalled for months since a one-week truce in November.



- 'Minimise civilian harm' -



Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has faced mounting criticism at home over his handling of the Gaza war and hostage crisis, with regular mass demonstrations led by captives' relatives and anti-government activists.

Thousands gathered in front of parliament in Jerusalem on Tuesday night, calling for early elections and the resumption of truce talks.

Hochstein on Tuesday evening returned to Israel for more talks with Netanyahu after a series of meetings in Lebanon, according to an Israeli official.

Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, as well as three Hamas leaders, have pending arrest warrants requested against them at the International Criminal Court for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

A UN report issued Wednesday detailed six "indiscriminate and disproportionate" Israeli strikes that killed at least 218 people in the first two months of the war.

It said the strikes involved "the suspected use" of heavy bombs -- a shipment of which the United States had paused in May over concerns Israel might use them in its Rafah assault.

The strikes targeted "densely populated" areas including refugee camps, a school and market, the UN rights office said, making the use of heavy bombs "highly likely to amount to a prohibited indiscriminate attack".

UN human rights chief Volker Turk said: "The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid, or at the very least minimise to every extent, civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign."

burs-dcp/jsa
Israel army spokesman says Hamas can't be defeated 'as an ideology'



Jerusalem, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



Israel's top army spokesman said Wednesday that Hamas cannot be defeated as an ideology, prompting the government to quickly re-assert that it remains committed to the Palestinian militant group's destruction.

More than eight months of war, sparked by Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack on Israel, have failed to oust the Islamist militants from the Palestinian territory but have brought widespread devastation.

"Hamas is an ideology, we cannot eliminate an ideology," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told Israel's Channel 13 broadcaster.

"To say that we are going to make Hamas disappear is to throw sand in people's eyes. If we don't provide an alternative, in the end, we will have Hamas."

His comments were quickly rebuffed by the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whose cabinet has stated its Gaza offensive will not end until Hamas is defeated.

"The political and security cabinet headed by Prime Minister Netanyahu defined as one of the goals of the war the destruction of Hamas' military and governmental capabilities," his office said in a statement.

"The IDF is of course committed to this."

The October 7 attack that triggered the war resulted in the deaths of 1,194 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures.

The militants also seized 251 hostages. Of these, 116 remain in Gaza, although the army says 41 are dead.

Israel's retaliatory offensive aimed at eliminating Hamas has killed at least 37,396 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.
Chad ammo depot blaze kills nine, wounds dozens



N'Djamena, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



A fire tore through a military ammunition depot in Chad's capital N'Djamena setting off explosions that killed at least nine people and wounded dozens, officials said Wednesday.

The blaze, which started late Tuesday, sent powerful blasts into the night sky and the exploding ordnance shook buildings miles away.

"I would like to tell my compatriots that the situation is under control and to remain calm," President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno told the press during a visit to the site of the explosion.

"This is not the first time there have been explosions of ammunition shops. This should teach us lessons, so that from now on we can no longer build shops in the middle of the city", Deby said.

Health Minister Abdelmadjid Abderahim told journalists the death toll would probably rise as many of the 46 injured were in an "extremely serious" condition.

Unexploded shells and other munitions could be seen scattered on the ground Wednesday amid the burned-out wreckage of military vehicles.

Government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah said the cause was not "criminal" but an investigation was under way.



- Burned -



The sky was lit up by flames above the Goudji area -- where the army's largest depot of ammunition is located -- for several hours before tapering off and finally ceasing after midnight.

Explosions shook buildings up to seven kilometres (four miles) away and the flames were visible from far off.

"The roof of our house was blown off by one of the explosions," said Kadidja Dakou, who lives in the Amsinene area near Goudji.

The 36-year-old and her three children took refuge in the street alongside their neighbours, fearing their houses would collapse, she told AFP.

"The soldiers had time to evacuate the vehicles, heavy weapons etc. and were able themselves to take shelter," Koulamallah said.

Nearby, gutted buildings could be seen and at least one huge crater was visible in the grounds of the military camp.

"I call on people to remain calm and serene and to avoid handling any object that may have landed," Regional Planning Minister Mahamat Assileck Halata Assileck said, adding deminers were at work.

During the night, the president offered his condolences to victims' families.

The grieving family of a six-year-old girl sat in front of ruined houses in Amsinene after a shell fell in the room of the child, killing her, the family told AFP.

"She burned to death, we couldn't get her out" of the house, her cousin, who did not want to be named, said.



- Iron fist -



Authorities cordoned off the area with a heavy security presence, where thick red smoke hung in the air long after the blasts stopped.

There are multiple homes in the neighbourhood that is the site of the depot, which lies near the international airport and a base where French troops are stationed.

The blaze "caused explosions of ammunition of all calibres", an official with the French forces told AFP on condition of anonymity. He said no French casualties had been reported.

Chad, one of the world's poorest nations, is considered vital in the fight to stop the march of jihadists through the Sahel region.

burs/yad-kjm/bc/nmc/tw
News / National

by Staff reporter

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has proposed deducting foreign currency contributions from Zimbabwe's civil servants, who are already facing severe financial strain due to low wages.Following government directives, NSSA has instructed the Salaries Services Bureau (SSB) to deduct US$10 per month from each civil servant, retroactive to January 2024. This move has resulted in a reduction of about US$30 in net salaries for many, exacerbating their financial hardship amidst a high-cost economy.Reports suggest NSSA may temporarily increase deductions to US$30 per month before reverting to the initial US$10. The Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) criticized these deductions as unjust and illegal, emphasizing they were imposed without consultation with unions.PTUZ President Dr. Takavafira Zhou condemned the deductions, highlighting that they further erode the already diminished purchasing power of civil servants' salaries, which have not been adjusted to pre-2018 levels (US$540).Despite criticisms and calls for fairness from unions, NSSA's actions continue, sparking outrage and accusations of mismanagement and corruption within the authority.Civil servants remain concerned about the impact on their livelihoods and are advocating for their rights under Zimbabwean labor laws amidst ongoing economic challenges.
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I think that sends exactly the wrong message, both to our allies, where we want to lead so that they invest more in their defence as well, but also to our adversaries, like Putin, and like the North Koreans, and actually we need to deter them with strength.
News / National

by Tonderai Ndoro

In a bid to combat fraudulent activities in the land sector, the Government has intensified its efforts to hold land barons accountable for their illicit actions.Recently, three land barons from Warren Park appeared in court charged with fraud after forming a cooperative using fake documentation to defraud 178 residential stands.Additionally, a sitting ZANU PF Councillor, Patson Chipunza, was arrested for fraudulently subdividing and selling land belonging to the late former Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Amos Midzi's Estate.The Government's clampdown on land barons sends a strong message that no one is above the law, and that all perpetrators will be brought to justice.The move is a welcome development, as it aims to protect desperate home-seekers from being fleeced of their hard-earned money by illegal land subdividers and sellers.The Government has also put in place measures to stem illegal State land parcelling, including a moratorium on parcelling stands and setting up fool-proof systems to halt the criminal enterprise of illegal land distribution.Zimbabweans are urged to be cautious and verify the authenticity of land deals with local authorities and the Deeds Office before making any purchases. Those who have already fallen victim to land barons are encouraged to report to law enforcement authorities expeditiously.The Government's action-oriented approach to combating land fraud is a testament to its commitment to ensuring that no one is above the law, and that all citizens have access to fair and legal land distribution practices.
It is said to be in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kims nuclear weapons and missile program. Putin thanked Kim for the support and said the two countries would sign an agreement to boost their partnership as both fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the US and its satellites against the Russian Federation.
News / National

by Tonderai Ndoro

Zimbabwe is joining forces with the international community in the fight against corruption, attending the International Anti-Corruption Conference (IACC) in Vilnius, Lithuania from June 18-21, 2024.The conference, themed "Confronting Global Threats: Standing for Integrity," is funded by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UN Global Impact.The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZAAC) delegation is participating in discussions on promoting business integrity, economic development, and robust strategies to combat corruption. The conference comes at a critical time for ZACC, which is tackling high-level tender corruption cases and seeking to strengthen its integrity.The IACC conference will address whistleblower protection legislation, private sector and government partnerships, national policies, and strategies in fighting corruption. It will also explore the role of politicians, legislators, journalists, and youth in integrity initiatives, as well as best practices in preventing and prosecuting corruption cases.Zimbabwe's participation marks a significant milestone in its fight against corruption, demonstrating its commitment to attaining Vision 2030.Since its inception, the Second Republic has made efforts to combat corruption, arresting and trying high-level individuals. ZACC continues to fight against corruption, despite complexities in investigations and prosecution.By sharing experiences and approaches with international counterparts, Zimbabwe aims to enhance its anti-corruption strategies and strengthen its integrity. The conference provides a valuable platform for fruitful exchange and information sharing, supporting Zimbabwe's determination to combat corruption and achieve sustainable development.
Labour is heading for the biggest majority of any post-war government, according to a new poll.

The Ipsos poll estimates Labour would win 43% of the vote and secure 453 seats - giving it a majority of 256 and reducing the Conservatives to just 115 seats in the partys worst ever defeat.

The Tory low would exceed the previous record of 156 seats in 1906, and mean senior figures such as Grant Shapps, Penny Mordaunt, Gillian Keegan, Johnny Mercer and Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg losing their seats.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt faces a close battle in his Surrey constituency of Godalming and Ash, while the poll has cabinet ministers James Cleverly and Kemi Badenoch clinging on.

That result could be even worse for the Conservatives, with Ipsos estimating a lower range of just 99 seats for the party that won a commanding 80-seat majority five years ago.

Kelly Beaver, chief executive of Ipsos UK and Ireland said: Labour is increasing its 2019 vote share across the country, especially in Scotland and the North East, while the Conservatives are losing votes in all regions  especially in the East and South of England, and across the Midlands.

What is perhaps most concerning for them are signs in the data that they are particularly losing vote share in the areas where they were strongest in 2019.

In further good news for Labour, the poll suggests that the partys former leader Jeremy Corbyn, now standing as an independent, is set to lose the Islington North constituency he has represented since 1983.

The poll used the multilevel with poststratification (MRP) technique to model individual constituency results based on a survey of 19,689 British adults and took place between June 7-12.

It is the second poll released this week to use the technique, following a Survation poll on Monday that estimated a similarly massive Labour majority.

Forecasts of a Labour landslide have prompted gloom from some Tories, with the Prime Minister forced to insist on Monday that his party could still win the election after Mr Shapps, the Defence Secretary, conceded that defeat was likely.

The party has responded by going on the attack, challenging Labour over taxation and warning voters that victory for the opposition could give it a blank cheque and put the party in power for a generation.

The Ipsos poll is the first MRP survey to be conducted entirely after Nigel Farage announced his bid to become MP for Clacton.

The poll suggests Mr Farage is on course to win that seat, with his Reform UK party also picking up Lee Andersons Ashfield constituency and possibly one other seat with 12% of the national vote.

That puts the party level in terms of seats with the Greens, who Ipsos suggests could win in Bristol Central, North Herefordshire and Waveney Valley while losing their current seat in Brighton Pavilion to Labour.

The British political scene could be heading for yet another significant shift

Kelly Beaver, chief executive, Ipsos UK and Ireland

The poll also sees the Liberal Democrats making gains in the South East and South West, increasing its number of seats to 38 and regaining its position as the third party in the Commons.

Ipsos said the fate of the SNP was still very much up in the air, with the party running a close second to Labour in Scotland and expected to win around 15 seats, a significant reduction on the 48 seats it won in 2019.

But the pollster acknowledged some 117 seats were still too close to call, with small changes in the parties performance possible leading to big changes in the final outcome.

Even so, Ipsos estimated that Labour would still win more than 400 seats before even considering those that were too close to call.

Ms Beaver said the poll was just a snapshot of peoples current voting intentions and there was still time for things to change.

She added: But this data, in line with most of the evidence that we have seen both in the run-up to this election and since the campaign started, in terms of the mood of the nation and real election results in local elections and by-elections, suggests that the British political scene could be heading for yet another significant shift.
PNL proposals, accepted by European Commission, with single tax quota to be maintained in 2025 (PNL's Ciuca)
The minister of National Defence, Angel Tilvar, had a working meeting with his South Korean counterpart, Won-sik Shin, on Wednesday, during which the two officials discussed the main threats in the Black Sea and Western Balkans regions in the wake of the war in Ukraine, as well as cooperation in the defence industry.

As regards bilateral cooperation, Angel Tilvar stressed the Romanian side's openness to identifying concrete cooperation projects that would bring added value to both countries and contribute to strengthening bilateral relations, noting that "cooperation relations between Romania and the Republic of Korea in the defence industry can be a good example to replicate in other areas of defence".The Romanian official also welcomed the appointment of Hanwha Aerospace Co. Ltd. as the winner of the procedure for the purchase by Romania of three 155 mm calibre battalion-level howitzer systems, including 54 K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers, support equipment and an initial quantity of specific ammunition, the MApN press release added.The South Korean minister's official programme included meetings with Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, Nicoleta Pauliuc, chair of the Romanian Senate's Committee on Defence, Public Order and National Security, and Ion Oprisor, presidential advisor and head of the National Security Department.At the same time, the two defence ministers laid wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Carol I Park, the source mentioned.
The importance of economic cooperation as a pillar of the bilateral relationship between Romania and Italy was highlighted by prime minister Marcel Ciolacu on Wednesday, when welcoming the visiting Italian president Sergio Mattarella.

An important point of Wednesday's discussions at the Victoria Palace referred to the Romanians in Italy.Economic cooperation was another important topic of the dialogue, given that last year bilateral trade registered a record value, exceeding 20 billion euros."Italy is Romania's second trading partner, the second destination market for Romanian exports and the second country of origin for imports into our country," Ciolacu said.The gov't's head also appreciated the excellent level of bilateral cooperation and dialogue in the field of security and defense and thanked president Sergio Mattarella for Italy's participation in the Enhanced Air Police mission and in the joint training programmes with the pilots of the Romanian Air Force, in the period 2021 - 2023.In this context, the Romanian official showed that Italy can make a substantial contribution to Romania's vision of transforming the Black Sea into an area of peace, security and connectivity, by developing cooperation between states with common interests in the region, on the one hand, and between them and the Euro-Atlantic community, with the support of NATO and the EU, on the other hand.Also, the Romanian prime minister appreciated Italy's efforts to include and promote Ukraine's support on the G7 reunion agenda, emphasizing, at the same time, that the security of the Republic of Moldova is closely connected to the stability of the Black Sea region."The advancement of the enlargement process both with regard to the candidates from the Western Balkans and those from the East - Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, the consolidation of the internal market, convergence and competitiveness, the next EU budget and the Schengen extension are of particular importance for Romania in the future institutional cycle," Marcel Ciolacu added.In 2024, Romania and Italy celebrate the 145th anniversary of the establishment of legate-level diplomatic relationships, as well as the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the embassy-level relations.
Ten rectors from some of the most prestigious European universities and their academic teams, together with national and European decision makers will convene this week at the Babes-Bolyai University (UBB) in Cluj-Napoca for EUTOPIA Week, to discuss the development of the European university alliance EUTOPIA and its contributions to the new European academic and social policies.

"Partner universities from Africa, Latin America, Asia, Australia and the US were also represented for global actions at the international level. Throughout this week, topics related to the European strategy of universities, dual/multiple/joint degrees, the new European research and innovation programme, the relationship between universities and industry will be debated. Also, some of the EUTOPIA Week days will be set aside for the EUTOPIA-Health project," according to UBB.

The theme of the event hosted by UBB is "Pathways to cohesion", reflecting one of the basic values of the alliance, cohesion.

"EUTOPIA, through its members and global partners in Africa, Latin America, Asia, Australia and the USA, is one of the most representative alliances of European universities, with an important voice in European academic policies. We are in Cluj-Napoca for a week, to discuss the development of the alliance and its contributions to European policies in the academic and socio-cultural areas", says the host of the event, UBB Rector Daniel David.

EUTOPIA is an alliance of prestigious European universities, whose ambitious objective is to redefine the future guidelines of European university education.

The Alliance offers teachers, researchers and students joint educational opportunities, joint research and development programmes, aiming to tr ain high-performing graduates, promoting internationalisation, diversity and inclusion, addressing global and local challenges.

The EUTOPIA community brings together over 240,000 students, more than 18,000 staff and researchers and more than 900 research groups, making it one of the strongest European university alliances.

EUTOPIA was established in 2019, being one of 17 winning projects of the European Universities Initiative competition launched by the European Commission to form an innovative space of European higher education.
The minister of Foreign Affairs, Luminita Odobescu, will pay a working visit between June 20-21, 2024 to the United States of America, during which she will have bilateral political consultations with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, informs the Foreign Ministry (MAE) in a press release.

Organized in the context of the 20th anniversary of Romania's accession to NATO, the visit will provide an opportunity to review the progress made in the bilateral relationship, in cooperation to strengthen Euro-Atlantic security, with an emphasis on the Black Sea region, as well as on identifying ways to further strengthen the Romania-U.S. Strategic Partnership.The dialogue at the level of heads of diplomacy will foreshadow the launch of the 9th session of the Romania-U.S. Strategic Dialogue, whose agenda includes the most important topics of cooperation between our countries. The discussions, which will be attended by dignitaries, representatives of relevant ministries, will focus on cooperation in security and defense, economic exchanges, energy security, interpersonal relations, but also cooperation in justice and internal affairs, with an emphasis on access of Romania in the Visa Waiver Program.
The president of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, will pay an official visit to Bucharest on Wednesday at the invitation extended by the Romanian counterpart, Klaus Iohannis.

On this occasion, the Italian official will hold talks with president Klaus Iohannis and will have separate meetings with Senate president Nicolae Ciuca and prime minister Marcel Ciolacu.

According to a press release issued by the Presidential Administration, the official visit is a continuation of the dialogue at the highest level, marked by the historic moment of the state visit that president Klaus Iohannis paid to the Italian Republic in 2018, the first in 45 years, as well as by the third joint Romanian-Italian government meeting held in Rome on 14-15 February 2024.

In 2024, Romania and Italy celebrate 145 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations and 60 years since the establishment of embassy-level relations, significant dates for the increasingly intense of bilateral dialogue, reads the cited source.

"In the context of the excellent relations between Romania and Italy, based on a solid bond, the official visit to Bucharest reconfirms the importance of the strengthened strategic partnership, the dynamism of the multiple areas of bilateral cooperation, the contribution to the social and economic life of the Romanian community in Italy and the Italian community in Romania, as well as the common approaches in European, Euro-Atlantic and international fora. The two heads of state will also discuss issues related to European and global developments, with a focus on the EU's Strategic Agenda and the security situation," reads the Presidential Administration press release.

According to the official agenda, Klaus Iohannis and Sergio Mattarella are also scheduled to hold face-to-face talks in the plenary of the two delegations, at the end of which they will make joint press statements.
The bilateral relations between Romania and the Republic of Korea have been strengthened by active political dialogue, common strategic interests and cooperation on the security and defence line, prime minister Marcel Ciolacu said at the meeting with South Korean minister of National Defence Shin Won-sik, which took place on Wednesday at the Victoria Palace in Bucharest.

"The bilateral relations between Romania and the Republic of Korea are developing on the basis of the Strategic Partnership, since the establishment of which the two states marked 15 years last year. Romania is the first country in the European Union to have established relations at the level of strategic partnership with the Republic of Korea, as the first strategic partner in the Asia-Pacific region," the Government also specifies.
President Klaus Iohannis on Wednesday stated, after the meeting with his Italian counterpart, Sergio Mattarella, that he welcomed Italy's valuable contribution to the security of Romania's neighbouring areas, noting that the two countries will continue to work together and with all the other allies to strengthen NATO's role in preventing any war and defending the two states.

"I am honoured to have the president of the Italian Republic, Mr. Sergio Mattarella, as a guest today, at the Cotroceni Palace, on the occasion of his official visit to Romania. Mr. President, welcome! Mr. President Sergio Mattarella is a good friend of Romania, and our meeting today continues the constant dialogue that we have. We are connected to Italy by a common history, deep ties, a consolidated Strategic Partnership, an exceptional economic and commercial dynamic, but also by what constitutes the soul of this relationship - the Romanian communities in Italy and the Italian community in Romania, which are very well integrated and important communities for the development of our societies," Klaus Iohannis told a joint press conference with the president of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella.

He also said that the two countries have "solid foundations" for the development of bilateral relations, of cooperation on multiple levels, including within the European and Euro-Atlantic frameworks.

"I expressed my appreciation for the solid community of Italian entrepreneurs, who are very welcomed in Romania, and I welcomed the growth of entrepreneurial initiatives of Romanians residents in Italy, who actively contribute to the economic and cultural life of their adopted country. Last year's figures indicate bilateral exchanges that reached already 20 billion euros," added the Romanian head of state.

He further emphasised the development of privileged bilateral relations in the field of culture and the organization of a large-scale archaeological exhibition in Rome, under the joint patronage of Romania and Italy - "Dacia. The Last Frontier of the Roman World."

He mentioned that he also discussed with his Italian counterpart aspects related to the consolidation of the common European family, noting that he stressed "how significant the rigorous planning of the European Union's strategic agenda for the next period is."

The head of states then discussed the results of the European elections that have just ended.

"I highlighted that the significant voter turnout is a proof of the interest of the European citizens in the future of the European project and its benefits. However, there is still room for improvement when it comes to the number of people coming to vote for the European Parliament. The European Union is the most relevant political project of Europe, which brought peace and prosperity, it is our destiny and future. If the European Union strengthens the principles of solidarity and internal cohesion, its position in the world will certainly be strengthened," Iohannis said.

He then appreciated Italy's involvement in the NATO Air Police missions in Romania.

"We welcomed Italy's valuable contribution to the security of Romania's neighbouring areas, both in the Western Balkans and in the Black Sea region. We greatly appreciate the participation that Italy has had and will have, in the coming years, in the Air Police of NATO in Romania," Iohannis added.

The president also showed that he discussed with his Italian counterpart about the war that Russia continues to wage against Ukraine.

"I also discussed with Mr. President our security concerns generated by the war that Russia continues to wage against Ukraine, with a strong negative impact for the region, but also for the entire Euro-Atlantic area. We will continue to work together with Italy and all our allies for strengthening NATO's role in preventing any war and defending our states, by strengthening its deterrence and defence position on the Eastern Flank, but also on the Southern Flank," Iohannis said.

According to the head of state, the Republic of Moldova is the partner most affected by the war and must be given all the necessary support.

"I congratulate Mr. President for the results of the visit he just paid to Chisinau. I am happy that, together, we concretely and decisively support the Republic of Moldova's accession to the European Union. The Republic of Moldova is our partner most affected by the war and we must make sure that we give it all the necessary support. Last but not least, I convey our appreciation for the Italian Presidency of the G7, which has already taken exceptional initiatives and responded adequately to the current major international challenges," Iohannis said.

The President of the Italian Republic is currently paying an official visit to Bucharest, at the invitation of the Romanian head of state. The Italian official will have separate meetings with the president of the Senate, Nicolae Ciuca, and with PM Marcel Ciolacu.
Microsoft Postpones AI Recall Release

After making Recall opt-in only, Microsoft is putting the brakes on its new AI feature for Windows that was designed to "retrace users' steps."

In a blog update, Microsoft said Recall will initially be available only to testers enrolled in the Windows Insider Program. Previously, Microsoft had planned to make Recall widely available as a preview in new devices.

"We are adjusting the release model for Recall to leverage the expertise of the Windows Insider community to ensure the experience meets our high standards for quality and security," the company said in the update.

Windows Recall, which is still in the pre-release stage, has been the subject of controversy since Microsoft first announced it during a PC showcase event last month. Microsoft had conceived of the feature as a key perk of its upcoming line of Copilot+ PCs, which are purpose-built to deliver seamless AI experiences to users. Recall keeps a running timeline of users' actions while using a Copilot+ PC.

Microsoft originally planned for Recall to be included as a preview feature in the initial crop of Copilot+ PCs, which are set to hit retail shelves on June 18. The feature was met with widespread concern, however. IT security researcher Kevin Beaumont, for instance, noted that Recall could allow attackers to steal a user's entire PC usage history with just a few lines of code, making it a security and privacy liability.

To assuage concerns, Microsoft last week announced it would make Recall strictly an opt-in feature, and described several security handholds it is implementing to prevent Recall from being accidentally activated.

This week, in response to ongoing negative feedback, Microsoft went a step further, putting a moratorium on any public Recall release  at least, for now.

"Recall will now shift from a preview experience broadly available for Copilot+ PCs on June 18, 2024, to a preview available first in the Windows Insider Program (WIP) in the coming weeks," the company said Thursday. "Following receiving feedback on Recall from our Windows Insider Community, as we typically do, we plan to make Recall (preview) available for all Copilot+ PCs coming soon."

Microsoft plans to collect feedback from Windows Insiders to make Recall more secure before releasing it more broadly. However, because of Recall's hardware requirements, Windows Insiders will still need a Copilot+ PC to test drive the feature.

For more information, visit the Microsoft blog.
Romania's Regina Maria frigate will arrive on Friday, June 21, in the military port of Constanta, after a mission of over 40 days in the Mediterranean Sea as part of the naval group of the EUNAVFOR MED IRINI Operation, the General Staff of the Romanian Navy (SMFN) informed on Wednesday.

According to SMFN, Romania participated for the third time in the EUNAVFOR MED IRINI Operation carried out under the aegis of the European Union, contributing to ensuring compliance with the UN arms embargo imposed on Libya.

"The Regina Maria frigate carried out marine traffic monitoring missions and inspections on board commercial ships transiting through the Mediterranean basin, with the aim of improving security in the Mediterranean Sea and to support the joint effort to end the conflict in Libya, in order to meet Romania's commitments towards the European Union."

During its more than 40 days in the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, the Regina Maria sailed over 6,200 nautical miles (approximately 11,500 kilometers) and made stopovers to train the crew and restore the combat capability in the ports of Souda on the island of Crete, Taranto in Italy and Catania on the island of Sicily.

The frigate has a crew of 240 soldiers on board, under the command of Mitel-Laurentiu Alexandru.

The EUNAVFOR MED IRINI operation, successor to EUNAVFOR MED SOPHIA, is a crisis management operation initiated after the decisions of the Berlin Conference in 2022, in order to achieve the conditions for the permanent cessation of the conflict in Libya.
Romania is an extremely important bilateral, European and international partner for Italy and we want Romania to fully enter the Schengen area, said the visiting president of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella, on Wednesday, at a joint press conference with president Klaus Iohannis.

Belonging to the European Union is another reason for dialogue and collaboration and for this reason I want Italy to ask the European Council to eliminate the land borders, so that Romania can fully enter the Schengen area. It is a condition that we adhere to very much and which we request a lot. We have an intense collaboration on the Euro-Atlantic level and we often collaborate with the armed forces, which have a very important collaboration in all plans concerning the Atlantic Alliance, Sergio Mattarella, who is on an official visit in Romania, stated.

At the same time, the Italian president pointed out the excellent bilateral relations on "all levels", facilitated by "the deep cultural ties and the presence of our communities in Romania and in Italy".

In Italy there is a large community of Romanians, who contribute to our life in an effective way, Mattarella said.

In this context, the Italian president highlighted the presence of numerous Italian companies in Romania, a fact that contributes to the excellent economic relations between the two states.

Mr. President Iohannis said that trade has reached 20 billion euros and we hope it will grow even more. The intergovernmental summit in February and the signing of bilateral agreements was a success for bilateral relations and opened other avenues of collaboration, Mattarella declared.

Regarding the discussions held on the European dimension, the Italian president pointed out that after the recent elections, it is necessary for the citizens to regain trust in the European institutions.

He reiterated as an indispensable objective the expansion of the European Union and the involvement of the candidate countries in this process.

As Mr. President Iohannis said, I was in the Republic of Moldova yesterday and I reaffirmed the collaboration with the Republic of Moldova and the support for the Republic of Moldova and the intention to support during the European integration and the support for Ukraine. We have similar positions regarding the accession process, the fastest possible accession of these countries to the European Union in order to contribute to the life of the Union, Mattarella stressed.

He specified that he also discussed with president Iohannis about the need for the European Union to address the issues related to the intensification of the Union's competitiveness on the international level, the economic dimension, the social cohesion, the financial dimension of the EU, as well as the issues related to the completion of the budget, after the European elections and the decision-making process.

Problems arise more and more quickly in the contemporary world and demand immediate, quick answers. (...) The European Union must be faster in terms of decision-making, Sergio Mattarella assessed.

The Italian president also presented the conclusions of the discussions on security, underlining the need to strengthen the European defense pillar within NATO, as well as maintaining support for Ukraine.

We think that a common European defence is necessary to strengthen the European pillar within NATO and to give an on-the-ground response to the growing influence of the Russian Federation. I spoke with Mr. President about Ukraine and about the full support that both Romania and Italy intend to maintain it in the future in favour of Ukraine, to defend the independence and sovereignty of this country, to protect, to respect the rules of international law and the life of the international community and the security of Europe. The defence of Ukraine, the resistance of Ukraine means security and resistance of entire Europe. So, we also talked about the conference in Switzerland, but it was a first step, a preliminary step to start the peace negotiations. We hope that the Russian Federation will be available to reaffirm the rules of international law, to find a viable solution, Sergio Mattarella added.
Many Americans are confused about the significance of our countrys 11th national holiday, Juneteenth, perceiving it to be a holiday only for Black Americans. Juneteenth, which was made a federal holiday in 2021, actually celebrates the best decision America ever made, which was to free enslaved people on American soil. America, as we know it, would simply not exist without that decision.

more economic prospoerity

Research suggests that the emancipation of enslaved people had a significant positive impact on the long-term economic growth of the United States.

From a social perspective, the decision to end slavery ultimately had the profound impact of making America the strongest country in the world, socially and economically. Participating in an institution such as slavery, which is immoral, coldblooded, and brutal, destroys the humanity of both those who enslave and the enslaved. By shedding ourselves of this monstrosity, America paved the way for its core values to guide us to become the greatest country in the world.

Our core values that all (people) are created equal, with the unalienable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, have become more of a reality. This decision provided the credibility for America to become a role model for democracy for the rest of the world. Emancipation has facilitated intergenerational progress, with descendants of freed individuals achieving significant milestones in various fields, including academia, business, politics, and the arts.

From an economic perspective, the decision to move away from an economic model that had slavery as its backbone was a brilliant decision. The economic dividends continue to reverberate through our economy to this day and into the future.

Research suggests that the emancipation of enslaved people had a significant positive impact on the long-term economic growth of the United States. It is estimated that emancipation generated economic gains equivalent to up to 35% of the US gross domestic product (GDP), making it one of the most important economic events in American history.

The economic benefits of emancipation and the benefits of reducing inequalities in todays society are the same.

The economic benefits of emancipation can be seen in several ways:

Increased Workforce Participation:

The freedom of formerly enslaved people contributed to a more dynamic and diverse labor force. This inclusion allowed for a variety of talents and skills to be utilized, fostering innovation and economic expansion. Growth of Human Capital:

With freedom came the opportunity for education and skill development, leading to a more educated and skilled workforce, higher literacy rates, and an educated populace better equipped to contribute to society. This improvement in human capital has been crucial for the economic advancements seen over the decades. A recent study by McKinsey & Company supported the strong business case for ethnic diversity with a 39 percent increased likelihood of outperformance for those (companies) in the top quartile of ethnic representation versus the bottom quartile. Entrepreneurship and Business Development:

Formerly enslaved individuals and their descendants have contributed significantly to the American economy through entrepreneurship and business development. The establishment of businesses within Black communities has not only created jobs but also spurred economic activity and growth in these areas. Consumer Market Expansion:

The liberation of a significant portion of the population expanded the consumer base, driving demand for goods and services, which in turn stimulated production and economic growth.

While moving from slavery to Jim Crow muted our economic and moral development as a country, we continue to overcome the vestiges of these impediments. We have reached a critical inflection point; If we can overcome the crippling economic disadvantages of the lack of financial literacy throughout our society, we will realize the full economic benefits of our countrys brilliant decision.

Juneteenth also symbolizes the power of information in achieving true freedom. Juneteenth resulted from the lack of information about emancipation in Texas, underscoring the importance of information as a building block for economic prosperity.

Today, technology, in particular artificial intelligence, can empower us to overcome a lack of information (financial illiteracy), thereby unlocking the full economic potential of emancipation and ensuring a more equitable future for all. Our institutions  banks, for example  can utilize artificial intelligence and data aggregation technology to provide personalized insights, enabling people to make better financial decisions and create generational wealth.

To be clear, Juneteenths history began as a Black American celebration when freedom finally came to Texas on June 19, 1865. For the first time, more than 250,000 enslaved Black Americans learned from the Union Army that arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, that they were free. The Emancipation Proclamation had been signed two years earlier, on January 1, 1863.

Today, we understand the significance of emancipation, not only for Black Americans but for all Americans. Therefore, our country has declared and celebrates Juneteenth as a national holiday. Corporations, government institutions, individuals, and community leaders alike should promote massive Juneteenth celebrations, bringing us together as one people with shared dreams and hopes for a better America and a better world.

Kevin Cohee is the chairman & CEO of OneUnited Bank, the nations largest Black-owned bank.
JEFFERSON CITY  Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who is trying to reel in voters in his quest for a full, four-year term, received two citations for violating Missouri conservation laws more than two decades ago.

But, through Missouris expungement statutes, the Republican appointee essentially is off the hook for his past deeds after he was able to clear his record when he went to work for the state Department of Corrections in 2018, the Post-Dispatch has learned.

The expungements cover two incidents in which Bailey was fishing, his campaign said. In one, at age 18, he said he paid a $15 fine for staying in a park after hours following a fishing expedition. Later, while in college, he paid a $25 fine for violating another conservation law.

Neither of the citations affected his ability to enter the military, obtain a law license or receive state approval to serve as a foster parent, campaign spokesman Mike Hafner said.

The expungements, which took place in a Callaway County courtroom, surfaced as Bailey is seeking the Republican nomination for attorney general against Will Scharf, a former aide to Gov. Eric Greitens and an attorney for former President Donald Trump.

Bailey has sought to depict Scharf, a Clayton resident, as a wealthy out-of-state attorney seeking to gain a foothold in national politics.

When Greitens resigned in 2018, Scharf worked in Washington and New York before coming to St. Louis in 2020 to work as an assistant U.S. attorney in the violent crimes division.

Like millions of Missourians Andrew Bailey loves to wet a line as often as he can and enjoy our beautiful ponds, lakes, and rivers. We invite Manhattanite Will Scharf to join him some day to learn what a fishing rod is and experience all Missouri has to offer, Hafner said.

Scharf signaled he wasnt taking the bait.

I love fishing too, Scharf told the Post-Dispatch, adding, Ive never violated state fishing law.

Missouri laws allow individuals who commit certain crimes to seal those offenses under specific circumstances.

An expunged record is not publicly accessible and would require a court order to reopen the record. Individuals who have had crimes expunged do not have to disclose those crimes except in specific instances.

In all, nearly 2,000 offenses qualify for expungement. Crimes that are ineligible for expungement include felonies involving sexual crimes, death, kidnapping and domestic assault.

In order to file for an expungement, individuals must have paid their fines, completed probation or parole and have had a clean slate for three years.

In the case of misdemeanor fishing or conservation violations, a person would have to wait one year to be eligible.

A judge must determine that the petitioner is not a threat to public safety and that expungement is in the public interest.

The primary election is Aug. 6.
Indira Gandhi National Open University Admission to Management Programmes (MP) 2024 https://career.webindia123.com/career/dates_and_events/entrance/manage/ignou-openmat-entrance-test-for-admissions-to-managmenent-courses.htm Details of Indira Gandhi National Open University Admission to Management Programmes (MP) 2024 2024-6-19 2024-6-30 https://career.webindia123.com/career/images/exams.png India India Indira Gandhi National Open University Admission to Management Programmes (MP) 2024 Management

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Admission Test 2024

Indira Gandhi National Open University Admission to Management Programmes (MP) 2024 Category : Management Admissions 2024 Published : On June 19, 2024 By Webindia123 Editor

Important Dates

Filled in form must reach the Regional Centre concerned on or before 30th June, 2024

Note :-OPENMAT Entrance test has been temporarily cancelled and is not presently required for IGNOU MBA admission.

MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME (MP)

IGNOU invites applications for the following Degree/ Diploma Programmes in Management :

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management (PGDHRM)

Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Management (PGDFM)

Post Graduate Diploma in Operations Management (PGDOM)

Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management (PGDMM)

Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Markets Practice (PGDFMP)

All the above programmes have multi-media design, and technology aided delivery systems. These are offered through countrywide network of study centers.

Eligibility :

Age Restrictions: There are no age restrictions for admission to IGNOUs management programs. You Should be a graduate in any discipline and must have 50% marks for graduation if you are from general category. However, if you belong to the reserved category, then you need to have only 45% marks for graduation. This also includes Chartered Accountancy/Cost Accountancy/Company Secretaryship graduates.

Graduation is the basic eligibility criteria for admission to IGNOU MBA. If you fulfill the eligibility conditions then you can get admission for MBA in 2024 intake sessions.

How to Apply

1.If you are a first time applicant you are advised to click the available programme tab on the homepage of the Online Admission System and select the desired programme and carefully read the details of programme including eligibility criteria, fee details, duration, etc.

2. You are also requested to download the Common Prospectus and read carefully the Rules of the University as mentioned in the common prospectus.

Click on the button NEW REGISTRATION that appears in the applicant login area and fill the required registration details.

Remember, while choosing your UserName it must be between 8 to 16 characters.

While choosing your password it must be alphanumeric and between 8 to 16 characters long.

After filling the mandatory information click the "SUBMIT" button.

Your username will be instantly sent to you via e-mail and SMS.

3.Remember your Username and Password for subsequent login. If you have already registered i.e you are an existing user click the "LOGIN" button.

4. Before proceeding for filling the form online the applicant must have the following:-

Scanned Photograph (less than 100 KB)

Scanned Signature (less than 100 KB)

Scanned copy of relevant Educational Qualification (less than 200 KB)

Scanned Copy of Experience Certificate (if any) (less than 200 KB)

Scanned Copy of Category Certificate, if SC/ST/OBC (less than 200 KB)

5.Fee can be paid.It is necessary to scan documents from your originals. Once you have uploaded the document, click the next button you will get the Form preview option. Save/Print your form for future reference.

6.Please fill up the details carefully. If you are using the services of a cybercafe to fill up your form, plesae make sure that details are correctly filled up and the relevant documents are uploaded as prescribed.

Application Fee :

An application fee of  200 must be paid before submitting the application, the fee can be paid through the following methods:

Credit card (Mastercard/ Visa)

Debit card (Mastercard/ Visa/ Rupay)

NetBanking

Once the fee has been paid, you can now submit your IGNOU Distance MBA admission form.

More details can be available from the institute website. https://www.ignoumba.in/

Contact Details Address : School of Management Studies

IGNOU, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi-110068 Phone : 91-011- 29532073, 29534905 Fax : 91-011- 29532078 Mobile : - E-mail : Contact I Website : https://www.ignoumba.in/

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ST. LOUIS  The former IT director at Webster University on Tuesday admitted to defrauding the private college and an equipment supplier of $2.2 million in a scheme first revealed in Websters audit that was released last year.

The U.S. District Attorneys Office said Ronald Simpson, 54, of St. Peters obtained approval to buy hundreds of IT items to install at multiple Webster locations, only to sell them to a third party instead. Simpson misappropriated at least $1 million from the university with this part of the scheme, authorities said.

He also claimed that 56 of those items were defective in order to sell those parts and the replacement gear. Authorities said the replacement equipment was worth $780,233.

Simpson was paid a total of $2,188,704 for IT equipment belonging to the university and its supplier. He pleaded guilty to one felony count of wire fraud in the U.S. District Court in St. Louis and faces up to 20 years in prison.

University spokesman Patrick Giblin said in a statement that Simpsons employment with Webster ended in September after the university notified authorities and conducted an internal investigation.

At Webster University, we expect our employees to conduct their job responsibilities according to the highest ethical standards, Giblin said. The crimes for which Mr. Simpson has admitted guilt represent intentional deception and deliberate violations of numerous policies and procedures that he was required to follow.

An audit of Webster University, located in Webster Groves, released in December disclosed that a former employee had misappropriated nearly $2 million during the 2022-2023 school year. College officials at the time declined to share more details about the incident but said that Webster had added protections to prevent future misconduct.

Giblin confirmed on Tuesday that Simpson was the employee referred to in the audit.

Simpson had worked at Webster since 1996, according to his LinkedIn page.

He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 17.
School teachers and counselors would be barred from talking to students about gender identity without parent approval under a new regulation being considered by Francis Howells school board.

The regulation is one of nine new proposals the Francis Howell Board of Education is considering, including measures on library materials, political campaigning and parent challenges to learning materials.

They have drawn criticism from some teachers, who say the measures would further complicate their instruction. The board will hold a first reading of each proposal at its Thursday meeting.

Under the gender discussions regulation, talk of gender identity or adopting a gender other other than what students were assigned at birth would be considered inappropriate. District employees would be barred from having such conversations with students without prior consultation with a parent or guardian.

Becky Hormuth, an elementary school teacher in Francis Howell and mother of a student who is transgender, said the policy was heartbreaking and would politicize a sensitive topic for many parents and children. But all of the proposals on the agenda for Thursday are very troubling, she said.

The board will also consider allowing Francis Howell residents and parents to challenge learning resources. With the exception of primary textbooks  and instances when a school principal resolves a complaint informally  the superintendent would appoint a nine-member review committee to review challenges. The board would vote on whether to accept the committees recommendation.

Another proposal would bar employees from publicly displaying flags, buttons, posters and more, connected to any partisan, political or social policy issue. District administrators would decide what falls under the categories, Board President Adam Bertrand said.

We provide these guidelines and they implement the policy, Bertrand told the Post-Dispatch.

The board will also consider requiring that it approve all purchases of library materials. The same policy would also bar written materials that include explicit descriptions of sexual conduct.

When asked if the policy could include books that have been banned in other districts, such as Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye and John Greens Looking for Alaska, Bertrand said he didnt write the policy and couldnt say for certain.

The remaining five proposed policies touch on grading, board committees and appropriate work behavior, among other issues.

Debates over classroom materials and culture-war issues are not new in the Francis Howell School District.

In the past year, the board has considered requiring students to use bathrooms that match the gender on their birth certificates and edited Black studies courses to rid them of so-called social justice standards. Earlier this month, the boards majority scrapped an educational video platform after a board member claimed it pushed social agendas.

The board is now weighing several new changes at once.

I do not intend for these policies to be inherently restrictive, but rather to document operational aspects of the district or put in place standardization for public clarification, in the hope of eliminating public concerns around these topics that arise from not knowing or understanding, Bertrand wrote on Facebook last week.

Some teachers said they were particularly concerned with a proposed policy on electioneering. The policy would, in part, bar anyone from campaigning at school facilities used as polling places on any day other than election day.

In past elections, supporters of board candidates or bond issues have spoken to parents outside of school buildings or events.

Critics see the policy as a guised attempt to avoid a repeat of Aprils election. In a stray from the boards prior elections, two right-leaning candidates were defeated in favor of candidates who ran on platforms of neutrality. The board, however, still has a 5-2 conservative majority.

The board members know they can no longer convince a majority of voters to accept their narrow ideology, the St. Charles County Families for Public Schools PAC said in an online statement. This language is a blatant attempt to prohibit citizens, whether school employees or not, from sharing their ideas and feelings about school issues.

St. Charles County Families supported Steven Blair and Carolie Owens in their successful board runs in April.

Francis Howells teachers union also supported Blair and Owens. The unions political action director, Julie McDonald, questioned how many of the proposals under consideration would be enforced.

What if I show up to school and I have a rainbow on my shirt? McDonald said. Who the heck is going to police that? Our schools are in chaos. We dont have enough staff to do what we need to do to get through the day. Now were going to have people walking around making sure I dont have a Pride flag on my wall?

All the proposals can be found on the school districts website, at: fhsdschools.org/about/board-of-education.
The Missouri Legislature has a Republican supermajority this is not a friend to public education, which I believe is the cornerstone of democracy, lifts people out of poverty, contributes to a better quality of life and improves the economy.

They use their supermajority and every gimmick possible to give the illusion that public education is important to them, while advancing legislation that is detrimental to our public schools. Those gimmicks include things like voting for charter schools and vouchers to attend private schools that no communities in the state have asked for.

As a matter of fact, education experts say these gimmicks undercut resources to the public schools in those communities. These same Republicans do the bidding of millionaire school-choice advocates like the Opportunity Trust to make sure these gimmicks become law.

Under this backdrop, I want to share why I voted no on Senate Bill 727 last session.

Many in the Republican majority are masters of deception. For example, they give bills names like Right to Work or Paycheck Protection, so they sound like they are aimed at benefiting workers. In reality, what they are really about is weakening or even destroying labor unions to the detriment of the working class.

Another deceptive practice that they use is to create giant omnibus bills, like SB 727, which are packed with a few things that most reasonable people agree but also include hidden gifts for their special-interest supporters  like the millionaire-funded school-choice advocates.

They know full well that the things reasonable people agree upon as being beneficial to public education will not be funded in the new state budget. Yet those hidden special-interest gifts will be fully implemented under the new bill.

SB 727 calls for much-needed increased minimum salaries for our teachers in mostly rural areas of the state, increased funding for pre-K and other items beneficial to public schools and supported by most reasonable people.

However, that bill also included a provision for expanding charter schools and vouchers that give away tax dollars to private schools in order to satisfy the special-interest millionaire school-choice crowd.

According to the Missouri Independent, state education officials are preparing for the mother of all supplemental budgets later this year. Thats because the state budget adopted in the recently ended legislative session doesnt include enough money to fund the increase in teacher pay or pre-K that was promised with SB 727. I believe its inclusion in the bill was just a gimmick to give cover to some legislators who voted for it  as well as to fool the public into thinking the bill was of some benefit to the public schools.

For the provisions for increased teachers salaries and increased funding for pre-K to become a reality, the money must be agreed to during a supplemental budget process, which is unlikely to occur, since the Republican-controlled Legislature failed to include such funding in the state budget even as they passed SB 727. I pray that those needs will be funded, but that is highly unlikely in an environment of shrinking revenue and a Republican majority that has pledged to reduce corporate taxes.

If that funding is not forthcoming, there will be no increase in teachers salaries, nor increased benefits to pre-K education. This is reason why every major public education organization in Missouri opposed the bill, as did all Senate Democrats and all but three House Democrats.

Of course, if there is no funding for teacher salaries and for improvements in pre-K education, guess what would still happen?: Expanded charter schools and private school vouchers, which will drain critically needed funds from our public schools.

Our Republican friends on the other side of the aisle and the three Democratic House members who passed SB727 should note that polls show Missouris electorate is far more interested in supporting existing public schools than expanding charter schools.

Let us also remember that education experts agree that both charter schools and vouchers hurt our public schools, and do not improve the quality of education offered to our students.

As a supporter of public schools, I am sure the voters will have the last word.
The Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit Minnesota (SSN 783) pulls pierside at Naval Station Norfolk from a scheduled underway on June 24, 2013. (Alex R. Forster/U.S. Navy)

(Tribune News Service)  The push to continue the pace of building two Virginia-class submarines per year is in limbo as Congress works through defense authorization and funding bills that are currently at odds on procurement.

Connecticut lawmakers fear a reduction will have an outsized effect on suppliers around the state and the U.S. who work with Electric Boat in manufacturing subs.

The uncertainty started months ago when the Biden administrations budget request for the Pentagon proposed procuring one Virginia-class submarine instead of the two-per-year cadence. They have cited budget caps as well as production delays for pulling back for fiscal year 2025.

Despite that request, House and Senate versions of the National Defense Authorization Act  the annual must-pass bill that authorizes federal defense programs  added back the second submarine, enabling $1 billion in incremental funding for it. But the current House defense appropriations bill leaves out funding for a second Virginia-class sub.

Congress confronted a similar push to eliminate a sub in 2013 with former President Barack Obama as well with former President Donald Trumps budget proposal in 2020. In both instances, lawmakers revived the build rate for Virginia-class despite threats of cuts.

This year, Congress faces major budget constraints when crafting legislation to fund the government this fall as lawmakers continue to negotiate the NDAA and appropriations bills over the coming months.

This program has had a history of ups and downs going back 10, 20 years and even longer, and thats why we have a supply chain problem  a lot of people just got out of the business because it was just too unstable, U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney, D-2nd District, said in an interview.

The current versions of the NDAA include language for two Virginia-class submarines. And while the bill got overwhelming bipartisan support out of the House Armed Services Committee, including from Courtney, the GOP-led NDAA ultimately included a number of amendments that were nonstarters for most House Democrats.

All five Democratic members of Connecticuts congressional delegation voted against the House GOPs version of the NDAA, citing poison pill amendments tacked onto the bill. Those included provisions to limit access to abortion and transgender health care as well as block diversity, equality and inclusion programs in the military.

I applaud Chairman [Mike] Rogers [R-Ala.] and Ranking Member [Adam] Smith [D-Wash.] for reporting a bipartisan bill out of the Armed Services Committee, U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, D-4th District, said after the vote last week. Unfortunately, Republican leadership has refused to take this critical legislation seriously and allowed the adoption of dozens of toxic amendments.

As the House geared up for passage of the NDAA last week, the White House released a statement of administration policy that it was disappointed that the House Armed Services Committee did not go along with its shipbuilding request, adding that it strongly opposes the incremental funding for a second Virginia-class sub which industry is unable to produce on schedule.

The statement also said it hopes Congress supports submarine industrial base investments to reduce the backlog in attack submarine production and sustainment and get to a production rate needed to support the Navys requirement and our commitment to the Australia-United Kingdom-United States security partnership. As part of AUKUS, Australia has agreed to initially buy three Virginia-class submarines from the U.S., but the first transfer is not expected to happen until the early 2030s.

This is not the final word by any stretch for either bill, for our NDAA or House appropriations bill, Courtney said.

On the Senate side, the Senate Armed Services Committee also easily approved its version of the NDAA with bipartisan support. The bill in its current form blows past top-line spending set by the budget caps in the Fiscal Responsibility Act, which was part of a deal to lift the debt ceiling last year.

This national security support package recognizes the central role Connecticut plays in our nations defense efforts, said U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., who sits on the Armed Services Committee. During the markup, I won $1.13 billion in funding for a second Virginia-class submarine essential to our continued undersea superiority.

Both NDAA bills from the House and Senate are not final versions, and Congress will need to work through the differences in negotiations, particularly on finding a compromise on the more partisan and controversial parts of the legislation. The NDAA typically passes out of Congress with bipartisan support.

On top of that, Congress will need to keep negotiating appropriations bills. Since the NDAA only authorizes these programs and priorities, the spending legislation approves the money for them in the next fiscal year.

As things stand in the House GOP-led defense spending bill, there is no money for a second Virginia-class submarine that the current NDAA bills are seeking to authorize.

The reason the bill doesnt fund a second submarine is very simple, U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert, R-Calif., chairman of the House Appropriations defense subcommittee, said at a hearing last week, according to Breaking Defense. The contractors cant build it. There are significant problems with the submarine industrial base that cannot be resolved with symbolic money.

Members of Connecticuts delegation have raised concerns about the lack of funding and what it would mean if implemented for Electric Boat and the smaller suppliers around the state. They also warned about the potential ramifications to fulfill shipbuilding commitments as part of AUKUS.

Electric Boat locations in Groton and Quonset Point in Rhode Island handle much of the Virginia-class shipbuilding, along with Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia.

Courtney earned the nickname Two-Sub Joe when he first came to Congress in 2007 by increasing the production cadence from one to two subs per year. As the ranking member of the House Armed Services Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, he has been advocating to keep production at the same pace.

A combination of disruptions have put a strain on the U.S. submarine industry and procurement: the pandemic, supply chain issues and a workforce that is aging and retiring. Companies like Electric Boat are hiring to fill those gaps and add to the ranks as production grows over the next decade.

Electric Boat came close to meeting its hiring targets in 2023 with about 5,300 new hires and set a new goal of another 5,000 employees in 2024. If Congress ultimately cuts production, Courtney said, Electric Boat and its workforce can weather the change, especially with other big programs like the Columbia-class submarines.

He argues the burden will fall more on smaller suppliers who will not be covered by other federal funding for the submarine industrial base.

I get asked a lot from people at home who have been seeing the reporting on the budget and are asking whether or not that means there are going to be layoffs or a halt to the hiring, Courtney said. The answer to that is emphatically no.

People are feeling pretty good about the fact that theyre really meeting the hiring goals that are there, he said about Electric Boats workforce. But the supply chain companies who do not have great capital reserves [who] cant absorb peaks and valleys as well  those are the ones who are clearly going to be impacted by taking a submarine out of the procurement budget.

Courtneys position to keep procurement at the same levels runs counter to Pentagon officials stance. They have cited both budget constraints and production delays for cutting back with the hopes of letting the industry catch up and get back on schedule.

Virginia-class, to be clear, was trying to get to a better, more healthy dynamic where we can get to the two submarine a year production rate, and we thought that going a different direction was our best move in that case, Mike McCord, the comptroller of the U.S. Department of Defense, said at a March hearing, noting subs that are supposed to be delivered this year were months behind.

At a hearing last month, Courtney asked U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro about the supply chain companies that would miss out on the proposed investments in advanced procurement meant to bolster the supplier industrial base and submarine industry.

Regarding specifically to these vendors, were in constant contact with these vendors. The purpose of advanced procurement money, however, isnt to fully fund all the vendors that are in the supply chain, Del Toro said at the May hearing. Its to fund those vendors that are most critical to the supply chain. I dont think theres ever been a confirmation that we can support, you know, full funding of all the vendors across the entire spectrum.

Del Toro and others within the department said they remain committed to the shipbuilding plan to have 66 attack submarines in the services fleet. He said there are currently 50 submarines with nearly a dozen under construction and an additional four under contract. But 19 boats will be decommissioned in the coming years.

Its a real difference of opinion, Courtney said, about how do we succeed in getting the production pace where everybody wants it.

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A graphic representation of a U.S. Military Sealift Command Navajo-class towing, salvage and rescue ship. (U.S. Navy)

The Navy will name a new ship in honor of the Narragansett Indian Tribe of Rhode Island.

The USNS Narragansett will be a Navajo-class Towing, Salvage, and Rescue (T-ATS) ship, according to a Navy news release.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro made the announcement in Washington on Tuesday, the 90th Anniversary of the Indian Reorganization Act.

The Indian Reorganization Act, signed in 1934, was a major reversal of federal policy. It provided Native Americans greater control over their lands, allowing the formation of legally recognized tribal governments and decreasing pressure toward assimilation.

The naming selection of the future USNS Narragansett follows the tradition of the Navajo-class of naming towing, salvage and rescue ships after prominent Native Americans or Native American tribes. Del Toro has previously named three Navajo-class ships: USNS Billy Frank Jr., USNS Solomon Atkinson and USNS James D. Fairbanks.

Prior to European contact, the Narragansett were a powerful Algonquian-speaking warrior tribe that occupied most of present-day Rhode Island from the Narragansett Bay in the east to the Pawcatuck River in the West.

There are about 2,400 members of the Narragansett Indian Tribe living primarily in Rhode Island. Five naval vessels have been named in honor of the Narragansett people: a screw sloop (1859-1875), a troop transport (SP 2196) (1918-1919), a ferry boat (YFB 1163) (1918-1944), a fleet tug (AT 88) (1943-1946), and a fleet ocean tug (T-ATF 167) (1979-2002).

Navajo-class ships will provide ocean-going tug, salvage and rescue capabilities to support fleet operations. Navajo-class ships will be capable of towing U.S. Navy ships and will have 6,000 square feet of deck space for embarked systems.
The USS Cyclops (Naval History and Heritage Command)

(Tribune News Service)  The telegram was dated April 14, 1918; the time stamped 2:34 a.m.

It was addressed to Henry E. Battle, a prominent physician in Andalusia, Ala. The contents would cause Battles wife, Jessie, to go into, as the local newspaper described it, a state of collapse. The telegram said: The Navy Collier Cyclops on which your son, Lee Otis Battle, seaman second class, U.S.N., was a member of the crew is overdue at an Atlantic Port since March thirteenth.  Her disappearance cannot be logically accounted for in any way as no bad weather conditions or activities of enemy raiders have been reported in the vicinity of her route. Search for her is being continued by radio and by vessels

Lee Otis Battles unknown fate was also editorialized in that same edition of The Andalusia Star, where writers remarked that the anxiety and uncertainty of it all, with the faint hope that news may yet come that all are safe, and yet with the still more probable likelihood that all went down with the ship, makes the situation all the more trying on the grief-stricken father and mother of this young hero.

The editorial continued: We think of Otis as the bright, happy, and companionable boy  a favorite among his associates. We hope that news may yet come that he and all who are on board are still safe. But if what we fear shall prove to be true and it proves to be that Andalusias first victim was our own jolly Lee Otis, we feel assured that since we know he met duty like a true American we also know that he met death, if death has come, like a hero.

The Battles would never learn what happened to their son, nor would the families of the other 292 passengers and crew  including 11 other sailors from Alabama  who were aboard the Cyclops when she disappeared. None was ever seen again, nor was any trace of the ship discovered.

There has been no more baffling mystery in the annals of the navy, said Secretary of the Navy Josephus Daniels in a December 1918 report circulated by the United Press in newspapers nationwide.

The Bermuda Triangle

When the World War I ship vanished sometime after March 4, 1918, the collier was loaded with a cargo of manganese to make munitions for the war effort. She had last stopped in the British West Indies for coal and was headed to Baltimore, Md.

The term Bermuda Triangle or Devils Triangle wouldnt be popularized until the mid-20th century, but legends about mysterious disappearances in the area had been whispered for decades. When the Triangle  roughly Florida to Bermuda to the Greater Antilles  did become part of sea lore, the Cyclops was quickly listed as one of its victims, along with at least 50 other ships and 20 other planes that had crossed into the cursed airspace or sea lanes.

Adding to the air of mystery was the fact that two of the Cyclops sister ships (there were a total of four Proteus Class ships built before WWI) were also lost in the Triangle, although much later. The USS Nereus and USS Proteus both vanished at sea, in 1940 and 1941, respectively, not long after they had been sold to civilian operators. Crews of both ships were lost.

Alabama sailors

Although no bodies or wreckage were found after the Cyclops went missing, one Alabama seaman was laid to rest in a cemetery with a headstone. Austin Mize had celebrated his 18th birthday just weeks before the ships last contact on March 4. After the Navy declared all on board the Cyclops dead, Mizes family erected a headstone at Liberty Presbyterian Cemetery in Odenville, Ala.

The inscription reads:

Forman Austin Mize

Feb. 13, 1900

Lost On U.S.S. Cyclops

March 1918

Gone But Not Forgotten

Son

In addition to Lee Battle and Austin Mize, the sailors from Alabama on board the Cyclops were, according to the Birmingham Age-Herald:

Hamilton Thompson Beggs, electrician, Birmingham; Ala.

Bascomb Newton Branson, coxswain, Whistler, Ala.;

Earl LeBaron Carroll, seaman, Oak Grove, Ala.;

John Clarence Dempsey, seaman, Dothan, Ala.;

Willie Thomas Gardner, seaman, Spring Hill, Ala.;

Thomas Jackson McKinley, seaman, Evergreen, Ala.;

George Mason McNeal, fireman, Birmingham, Ala.;

Joseph Freeman Mitchell, seaman, Pratt City, Ala.;

William Thomas Wise, fireman, Glenmore, Ala.;

Francis Olney Strong, fireman, Ashland, Ala.

So what might have caused the loss of the Cyclops? Theories that involve the Bermuda Triangle include:

A supernatural element: The area is cursed and causes ships and planes to crash/sink/vanish.

The geophysical element: Mariners do not account for the agonic line, the place at which there is no need to compensate for magnetic compass variation as they approach the Bermuda Triangle, which can result in navigational error.

The environmental element: Rogue waves, once called tidal waves, are more likely to occur in the area of the Triangle because storms can converge from multiple directions. The waves, which can reach 100 feet high, are thought to be powerful enough to destroy all evidence of a ship or an airplane, according to Britannica.com.

Outside of the Bermuda Triangle, theories include issues with the ship, or possible wartime sabotage.

Some experts believe that the load of manganese was more than the ships capacity and could have caused the ship to overturn. In addition, the ships lieutenant commander, George W. Worley, had reported before leaving Bahia that a cylinder had cracked on the starboard engine.

Also, a severe storm was reported on March 10, but it is uncertain if that contributed to the disappearance of the Cyclops. German officials at the time denied making contact with the Cyclops.

The United Press article in 1918 reported: Probably not until the sea gives up its secrets will the fate of the Cyclops be known. Once the Navy declared all aboard lost, the date of death assigned for those on board was June 14, 1918.

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(Charlie Coon/Stars and Stripes)

Tahoua, Niger, June 15, 2005: A Green Beret staff sergeant, right, from 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group teaches foot-patrol tactics to Nigerien soldiers in Tahoua, Niger. The training is part of Flintlock 05, an exercise to train armies in northern African countries and build U.S.-African relations.

Last month the U.S. government presented plans to the government of Niger for shuttering two key American bases and withdrawing all its troops. Relations between the two countries strained after the 2023 military coup which saw the installation of Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine. Zeine accused the U.S. of trying to dictate which countries Niger could partner with, and questioned the reason for the presence of U.S. forces.

At the same time, Nigers government strengthened ties with Russia, which dispatched its troops to train its Nigerien counterparts and provide them with a new air defense system. Since then Russian and American troops are operating on opposite ends of the same air base in Niger.

On Monday, Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh said about 700 military personnel are in the West African country, down from the roughly 1,000 who were there before troops began their withdrawal.

Read more about the Flintlock 05 exercise here: https://www.stripes.com/migration/nigeriens-welcome-u-s-presence-training-against-terror-1.34684

And check out Stars and Stripes reporting on this years Flintlock 24 exercise, hosted by Ghana and the Ivory Coast, here: https://www.stripes.com/theaters/africa/2024-05-15/flintlock-begins-amid-niger-russia-tension-13864023.html
Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit participate in a simulated multinational amphibious assault on a Polish air force base at Ustka, Poland, as part of Baltic Operations 24, June 16, 2024. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)

USTKA, Poland  Russian bomber flyovers made the preparations for a Marine amphibious landing off the Polish coast a little more interesting, but no less effective.

The four-nation beach assault over the weekend was part of Baltic Operations, an annual exercise that showcased the capabilities of 20 allied countries, as well as Moscows irritation with NATOs growing strength.

On Saturday, two Russian Su-24 bombers flew over the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York and the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp between 10:20 a.m. and 10:40 a.m., while they were operating in the Baltic Sea, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa said in a statement to Stars and Stripes on Tuesday.

One of the planes flew over Wasp at about 500 feet, causing the ship to suspend the takeoff of an MV-22 Osprey, said Capt. Clayton Doss, a spokesman for NAVEUR-AF.

On June 10, three Russian Su-24s made seven passes over the command-and-control ship USS Mount Whitney, said Doss, who characterized most of the interactions as safe and professional.

The flyover involving Wasp was determined to be safe but unprofessional by U.S. Navy officials because the ship was conducting flight operations.

Sailors aboard Wasp took the flyovers in stride. Russia wanted to let them know they were around, but they werent going to do anything to stop them, the sailors told Stars and Stripes during the exercise.

Russias interest wasnt limited to American forces. On Tuesday, the Spanish landing helicopter dock ship Juan Carlos I spotted Russian activity nearby while operating off the coast of Poland. The ship shut down its Wi-Fi, among other security precautions.

Russian observance by air, surface or submarine was frequent in the Baltic, sailors aboard Juan Carlos said.

A landing craft from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit reaches the beach at a Polish air force base at Ustka, Poland, as part of Baltic Operations 24, June 16, 2024. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)

Tensions in the region have grown since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 spurred Finland and Sweden to join NATO, leaving Russia as the only non-NATO country among the nine that border the Baltic Sea. Finland and Sweden joined BALTOPS this year for the first time as alliance members.

The city of Kaliningrad is the only Russian port that remains ice-free all year and is home to Russias Baltic Fleet. Ustka is about 198 miles from Kaliningrad.

This years BALTOPS includes more than 9,000 personnel, 50 ships and 85 aircraft. The exercise, led by NAVEUR-AF/U.S. 6th Fleet and commanded by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, ends Thursday.

U.S., Polish, Spanish and Romanian forces successfully conducted a simultaneous amphibious assault Saturday and Sunday that included seizing and controlling a beach, and land and air insertions within a Polish air force training base, Navy officials said.

The two-day segment included about 350 U.S. Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit embarked on Wasp and New York. The Marines played assault team and opposition forces roles.

The exercise, which called for a coordinated, simultaneous assault by about 600 allied forces, was a challenge to plan and execute across multiple languages, said Maj. Brian Hubert, executive officer of Battalion Landing Team 1/8.

Marines from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit walk to a waiting V-22 Osprey as part of a simulated multinational amphibious assault on a Polish air force base at Ustka, Poland, during Baltic Operations 24, June 16, 2024. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)

The idea was that you have all these different nationalities and ships out at sea  and then all of a sudden they are sending forces ashore at the same time, Hubert said.  You cant react sequentially, its a simultaneous landing surface on the beach but also air-inserting the forces.

The successful operation boosted confidence and showed that we can execute, and we can get it done in a place weve never been before, Hubert said.

It also offered an opportunity for forces to learn the hard lessons about things that broke down during planning or execution of the operation, said Maj. Jackson Thornton, a reservist Marine and advisor with the Marine Corps Advisor Company based in Washington D.C. Thornton was at the exercise to advise Romanian forces.

Marines also benefited from learning about the tactics and operating procedures of other countries.

There is very little  that you will do in the modern world without an ally or partner to your left and to your right or behind you, or assisting you or supporting you in some way, Thornton said.
Ukraines President Volodymyr ZelenskYy flashes a V sign as he attends a summit on peace in Ukraine near Lucerne, Switzlerland, on June 16, 2024. (Dimitar Dilkoff/AFP/Getty Images/TNS)

Ukraine may invite Russia to the next meeting slated with international partners aimed at working out a formula for future peace talks, President Volodymyr Zelenskyys chief of staff said.

The Kremlin has repeatedly made clear it has no intention of engaging with the Ukrainian plan. But Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyys top adviser, raised the possibility as working groups prepare the details for a follow-up gathering after last weeks summit in Switzerland.

There is no timeframe for a subsequent meeting  and the much-speculated prospect of a second summit didnt appear in the final document of the June 15-16 meeting in Lucerne. While that meeting saw more than 100 nations and organizations in attendance, it fell short of its ultimate goal to build broader global support.

The working groups results will be part of this joint plan, which will be supported by a number of countries at a second meeting, Yermak said in a conference call late on Tuesday. We think it will be possible to invite representative of Russia.

Ukraines so-called blueprint for peace has always involved bringing Moscow to the negotiating table as the ultimate goal, but only after recruiting global leaders to Kyivs demands that Russian forces withdraw from occupied territory and recognize Ukraines borders.

But winning over governments from the Global South  above all China, but also countries including India and Brazil  has proved elusive. Many delegates outside the Western fold who came to the summit reinforced their point that a process that doesnt involve Russia is bound to fail.

India, Brazil and South Africa on Sunday opted out of signing the final communique, rounding out the so-called BRICS nations. Meanwhile, an official from Saudi Arabia, which Zelenskyy had courted, warned that Kyiv must be prepared for difficult compromise to put an end to the conflict.

President Vladimir Putin set out terms for peace talks on the eve of the gathering, calling on Ukraine to first surrender four of its eastern regions to Russia as well as renounces its ambition to join NATO. The demand was derided by Western allies along with Ukraine, which has repeatedly said giving up any of its territory is unacceptable.

Still, Yermak described the Swiss meeting as a success. The second summit will be more representative, the chief adviser said, adding its goal was to end the war and settle the crises it created.

Ukraine is realistic and open to input from other nations, he said, and is seeking to unite responsible countries on the basis of Ukraines blueprint, Yermak said of the plan he has spearheaded. China and Brazil have put forward a plan for peace that involves the participation of both war parties.

The situation on the battlefield may be a factor in future talks. So far, both sides appear to be locked in a stalemate along the more than 750-mile front line. The recent arrival of US military aid helped replenish Ukraines firepower and halted some of Russias advances.

Putin embarked on a rare visit to North Korea, its long-time partner suspected of sending missiles and millions of rounds of munitions to help Russias grinding assault on Ukraine.

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An Israeli firefighter puts out flames in a field after rockets launched from southern Lebanon landed on the outskirts of Kiryat Shmona on June 4, 2024. (Jack Guez, AFP via Getty Images/TNS)

TEL AVIV  For years, the standoff on Israels border was between the massive rocket stockpile of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group and the vaunted Iron Dome antimissile system that ably handled most incoming rockets and artillery.

But Hezbollah is deploying a deceptively simpler weapon from its arsenal to bypass this cornerstone of Israels national security strategy: high-speed, low-flying drones  many just commercial-grade  to gather intelligence and drop explosives.

As these uncrewed aircraft hit military sites and private homes in Israel, they are also resurfacing debates around the decade-old air defense system, which many worry provides an imperfect shield against Israels various enemies  especially as they experiment with new weapons and new ways of using old ones.

With the imminent prospect of a region-wide war exploding with Hezbollah and its allies, Israel is scrambling to reformulate its air defense approach to deal with these new, lower-tech threats.

Israel received a shock Tuesday when Hezbollah released drone footage of a critical Israeli military base at the port of Haifa, some 15 miles from the Lebanese border, thus showing off its drone abilities. Hezbollah said the images were captured with a drone that went undetected and returned to Lebanon.

What we released yesterday is a small part of many hours that were filmed in Haifa, Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah said in a speech Wednesday. There will be no place safe from our missiles and drones.

Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the Israel Defense Forces chief of staff, said the footage showed a capability that we are aware of.

We are preparing and building solutions for those capabilities and for other capabilities that will meet them at the necessary moment, he said Wednesday from an Iron Dome battery in northern Israel.

Soon after the footage was made public, the Israeli army said it had approved operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon.

U.S. special envoy Amos Hochstein, after shuttling between Israel and Lebanon, said in Beirut on Tuesday that the region was going through dangerous times and critical moments, and urged a diplomatic solution.

Israel and Hezbollah both say they do not want war, but they are readying for one. For Israel, that means rethinking old ideas on the advantages  and limits  of its own technological superiority.

Hezbollah drone tactics involving agile, radar-evading drones for reconnaissance and bombing are not new, but they have surfaced into the public conversation in recent weeks, as the tit-for-tat cross-border attacks have reached a greater intensity.

Hezbollahs small, remote-controlled drones  believed to be simply bought over the counter  can operate independent of radio signals. Some can fly up to 125 mph. They can fly low to the ground and can maneuver around the mountains and into the canyons along the border, skimming through the blind spots in Israels detection web.

The Israeli military may mistake the drones for its own, or for birds. Even when it does identify them, the drones do not follow the straight path of a missile, and shooting one down, in the case of a reconnaissance drone, may cause more damage than simply letting it return to its control center.

Onn Fenig, the CEO of R2, an Israeli signal processing and machine learning start-up, said that the war between Ukraine and Russia, in which both sides are heavily relying on drones, and now increasingly between Israel and Hezbollah, showcases the modern battlefield, in which threats have evolved beyond the visible spectrum.

In the case of the war in Ukraine, both sides use drones, but neither has found an effective defense against them, contributing to the battlefield stalemate. It is not clear how Israel plans to crack the drone conundrum.

The Hezbollah modus operandi is first sending out very small commercial drones to do surveillance of IDF military posts, trying to figure out which units are there. Then a few seconds later, a kamikaze UAV explodes, Fenig said, using the abbreviation for unmanned aerial vehicles.

The damage is normally not that big. Its not a missile. But its psychological. They are showing that they can penetrate the air defense, they can reach very far behind your border lines, he said, speaking from the international arms expo in Paris.

The drone footage from the Haifa port on Tuesday was probably only the latest in a string of similar cases, Fenig said, made public only because people actually saw it in the sky, and because Hezbollah publicized it as a piece of psychological warfare.

The simplicity of drones is the reason that, for more than a decade, they were seen as a low priority for an Israeli army that prided itself on its advanced tech, said Liran Antebi, a researcher on the link between technology and defense at the Institute for National Security Studies, a nonpartisan think tank in Tel Aviv.

Israel is now part of an arms race where, for a change, organizations that once seemed small or only paramilitary can be surprisingly effective, she said. Many times, Israels enemies challenge it with low-tech, or no tech, and so Israel must not necessarily respond only with technology, but with a real awareness of the threat.

During the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack, thousands of gunmen stormed Israels border with the help of explosive-laden drones that took out surveillance cameras, sensors and automatic machine guns along Israels southern border fence, a barrier thought to be impenetrable.

More than 1,200 Israelis were killed in that attack and about 250 taken hostage. In the ensuing eight months, more than 37,000 Gazans have been killed during Israels retaliatory air and ground assault, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians but says the majority of the casualties are women and children.

A war with Lebanon could be even deadlier for both Israel and Lebanon, given the number and types of weapons involved, experts say.

Last week, after Israel killed the most senior Hezbollah commander yet, the group fired its largest salvo of rockets and drones at Israel since October, sparking wildfires that have scorched 11,000 acres of land. On Saturday, Hezbollah shot antitank missiles at the IDFs main air traffic control base on Mount Meron. Two days later, Israel killed a key operative in a Hezbollah rockets and missiles unit. The cross-border attacks are incessant.

The biggest test for Israels air defense, however, came after Iran retaliated for the bombing in April of its embassy in Damascus, Syria, and the killing of two senior Revolutionary Guard commanders. Iran, together with regional allies, fired hundreds of cruise and ballistic missiles and launched hundreds of explosive drones at Israel.

Israel emerged largely unscathed, with just one young girl severely injured by shrapnel. But it had help. A U.S.-led regional coalition provided major support in shooting down many of the incoming projectiles.

The Iranian attack was also a one-off event and raised questions around Israels ability to handle, or afford, an attack that would have been more sustained, said Fenig, the Israeli start-up CEO. He said that in the post-Oct. 7 world, Israel and its allies would need to leverage its military technology to deal with a new generation of unconventional and, at times, paradoxical threats.

If youre strong and you have budget, you dont have the upper hand, he said. Theres no one solution in this dramatically changing battlefield. Its all very problematic.
A California National Guard member checks a vehicle for drugs as part of the Guards Counter Drug Taskforce. (California Governors Office/Facebook)

Nearly 400 National Guard troops in California are now deployed in a mission to stop people from smuggling fentanyl into the state at its southern border with Mexico, Gov. Gavin Newsoms office announced.

The governor doubled the number of troops working on the Guards Counter Drug Taskforce operations across the state and at ports of entry along the border, he said Thursday during a visit to San Ysidro, a district in San Diego.

The states Counter Drug Taskforce is making a profound difference to hold smugglers accountable and take deadly drugs off our streets, he said in a statement.

So far this year, the Guard has aided in the seizure of 5.8 million pills containing fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, according to the governors office.

Fentanyl is an approved prescription pain medication that is increasingly being produced overseas, smuggled across the southwest border and sold illegally, killing about 70,000 each year, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services.

It also is being discovered mixed with other illicit drugs or used to replace another drug entirely so that users are expecting something else. This has led to a rise in deaths nationwide from fentanyl, according to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In early 2022, the mission had 30 troops spread across the ports of entry at San Ysidro, Otay Mesa, Tecate and Calexico to support federal agents, said Maj. Gen. Matthew Beevers, assistant adjutant general of the California National Guard.

Another $15 million in annual state funding was given to the mission, which allowed the Guard to add another 155 full-time troops, the Guard said. Thursdays decision increased the number of troops on the task force to 392. About one-third of the troops are deployed by the governor, and the rest were ordered on the mission by the Defense Department.

The task force focuses on gathering information to interdict illegal narcotics trafficking, utilizing air and ground assets to build criminal investigations, and supporting personnel at border ports of entry to stop illegal narcotics trafficking, according to the governors office.

Most of the support is behind the scenes and case analysis, said Lt. Col. Brandon Hill, spokesman for the California National Guard.

Our criminal analysts are military service qualified personnel who may process, categorize and evaluate criminal information, within the immediate scope of the supported law enforcement investigation, in support of law enforcement counter drug activities, he said.

Troops also work to reduce demand for drugs in the community by supporting prevention programs in about 90 schools, Hill said.
Marine veteran Roosevelt Randolph, center, gets in a deep discussion with fellow Black military veterans at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024, in Miami. The group gathers daily to share memories, stories and fellowship. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS)

MIAMI (Tribune News Service)  For more than 20 years, a group of Black military veterans has gathered at a McDonalds in North Miami-Dade for breakfast every morning of the year, except for Christmas.

The group, which can reach nearly 20 people on a good day, holds court at table 112 starting around 9 a.m., though they often stay until long after the menu has switched over from breakfast to lunch. On a recent weekday morning, an older woman in a wheelchair rolled up to a touchscreen kiosk directly behind them, unaware that breakfast service had ended. She turned to Marine veteran Roosevelt Randolph for answers.

There aint no biscuits? she asked him.

Hell nah, they dont got no biscuits! said Randolph, 77. The dining area erupted in laughter.

The groups longstanding, unofficial reservation has made its members the undisputed VIPs of the McDonalds at 9250 NW Seventh Ave. Lingering for hours  to swap stories, poke fun at each other and unwittingly draw an audience  is a core component of the group, which, in two decades, has never been named. Though they gather daily around trays of hash browns and sausage biscuits, whats really being served are memories.

Bryan Bentancourt became co-owner of the franchise in 2012. He estimates that the group spends $18,250 at the location each year but believes the value of their patronage extends well beyond that.

They take care of this restaurant like its their own, he said. A fun, nice vibe in a restaurant is extremely key. There is an extremely warm vibe when you walk in [because of them].

Joining the military was not one of many options for the men of table 112  it was the only option.

Marines veteran Roosevelt Randolph, 77, is photographed as Black military veterans gathered daily to share memories, stories, and fellowship at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS) Marines veteran Roosevelt Randolph, 77, is photographed as Black military veterans gathered daily to share memories, stories, and fellowship at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS) Army veteran James McDonald, 89, is photographed as Black military veterans gathered daily to share memories, stories, and fellowship at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS) Army veteran Lawrence Draymond, 87, is photographed as Black military veterans gathered daily to share memories, stories, and fellowship at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS)

A lot of us couldnt afford to go to college, Randolph said. So the military was the next best thing for us to do.

As a boy growing up on welfare in a single-parent household in the 1960s, Randolph began to resent civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He remembers having to ride in the back of the bus in Miami and was unclear about how social justice could improve his life.

I hated him because I didnt like the fact that Black people were getting beaten up [in downtown Miami] and getting dogs put on them [and sprayed] with a water hose, he said. I didnt have anybody in my family to tell me what that was all about.

After completing two tours in Vietnam, Randolph returned to Miami in 1969 with a different frame of mind. He finally understood the mission behind Kings work.

While he remembers hanging out with friends and going out dancing when he got home, what he had seen in war weighed on him.

Everybody coped with a lot of stuff when I got back from Vietnam, he said. Guys were snorting coke, smoking weed and some other things.

The men who meet at the McDonalds are as young as 62 and as old as 90. Leonard Hopkins is the elder statesman of the group. The Brownsville widower has been attending the breakfast meetings for more than 20 years, and since retiring from his job as a mechanic in 2016, he is more present than ever.

Hopkins grew up in Coconut Grove during the 1940s and spent much of his time as a kid at his grandfathers bicycle shop. He was fascinated by the mechanics of bicycles, cars and planes and wanted to study aviation after he completed high school. Weeks after his graduation in 1951, he got a sobering dose of reality.

Three of us went down to Lindsay Hopkins [Technical College], and they told us Blacks couldnt take aviation, he remembers. All three of us went and joined the Air Force.

Air Force veteran Leonard Hopkins, 90, shares a photo of himself, and his cousin, a fellow Tuskegee airman pictured on a calendar, as Black military veterans gathered daily to share memories, stories, and fellowship at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS) Air Force veteran Leonard Hopkins, 90, and Artie Stubbs, 72, right, are photographed as Black military veterans gathered daily to share memories, stories, and fellowship at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS) Black military veterans gather daily to share memories, stories, and fellowship at a local McDonalds on March 28, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS)

Even though racism would not allow him to chase his childhood dreams of working on planes, being Black didnt keep him from risking his life in the Korean War. Hopkins went on to serve eight years in the Air Force as a gunner on a B-36 plane. He still beams with pride when discussing the nuts and bolts of the plane and how it had enough fuel to go around the world without stopping.

Hopkins later found out that he was among a small number of Black airmen to serve on a plane.

What I didnt know was that about 80% to 90% of the Black people in the Air Force were in food service or in the motor pool, he said.

Jeffrey Berry, 62, is one of the youngest members of the group. A Navy veteran, he has driven a charter bus for the past 36 years. He remembers leaving Miami as a troubled teenager shortly before the McDuffie Riots happened in 1980.

Before he was a member of table 112, Berry would come into the McDonalds for coffee before work and was intrigued by the groups consistency in meeting. One day about six or seven years ago, he introduced himself and quickly made friends with members of the group.

Being part of his countrys armed forces brought him a sense of community and shared responsibility  something he believes younger generations would benefit from.

I think a lot of these kids need to go into the military to learn some structure and some discipline, he said.

This life aint no individual thing, he added. No, it takes all of us to do this.

The bond between group members extends beyond breakfast. Some carpool to the restaurant in the morning. Many are part of a group text. Randolph and Berry have each attended funerals for members of the group as their ranks have gradually dwindled over the years.

Outside the controlled environment of the McDonalds, the Miami they grew up in is constantly changing. Gentrification has forced many Black residents to move, and housing prices are at an all-time high.

The childhood home in Coconut Grove that Hopkins grew up in was built by his father in 1931, two years before Hopkins was born, but his family no longer owns it. Hopkins estimates that the house and other homes in the neighborhood are now worth between $3 million and $5 million.

I said if I ever get in a position to buy it back, Id like to buy it back, he said. I just wanted to have that house in my family because that was the house I was born in.

As Hopkins got up to leave the group on a recent morning, two more men were just arriving to hang out. The next day, and the day after that, and the day after that, the group would return to table 112 for breakfast. Though they rarely stop to define it, their bond is what keeps them coming back.

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The judge spared the man jail, instead giving him a three-month suspended sentence and fining him 400.

An accountant threatened to distribute intimate images of his ex-partner after they broke up and he took it very badly, a court heard.

The accused (31) had been in a brief relationship with the woman before making the baseless threats when they split.

Judge Fiona Brennan said although there were actually no images, the distressed victim was not to know this and it must have been a matter of extreme concern for her.

The judge spared the man jail, instead giving him a three-month suspended sentence and fining him 400.

He pleaded guilty to threatening to distribute intimate images of the woman without her consent, with the intent to cause harm or being reckless as to whether harm is caused, in September last year.

The charge is under the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020.

The man cannot be named, to protect the victims identity.

Dublin District Court heard the woman went to a garda station and made a complaint that he threatened to distribute images he had recorded of both of them engaged in intimate activity. The victim was greatly distressed by this. Gardai carried out a search of the mans apartment and he made voluntary admissions, fully accepting responsibility.

Gardai are satisfied that the threats made were baseless and despite his claims, there were no images of any intimate nature whatsoever, a garda told the court.

The Director of Public Prosecutions consented to the case being dealt with at district court level and Judge Brennan accepted jurisdiction after hearing the evidence.

The court heard the accused had no previous convictions.

The man, a trained accountant, had a brief relationship with the woman and when it broke up, he took it very badly, his solicitor Brian Doherty said.

There were no images and, as the garda had said, the threats were baseless, Mr Doherty told the judge.

Hes sorry and embarrassed and wishes to express his regret, the solicitor said.

The accused was a foreign national and had been living in Ireland for seven years.

He had had to quit his employment, was not getting social welfare and his current financial situation was difficult, the court heard. He had pleaded guilty at the very first opportunity and asked the court for leniency.

Judge Brennan said she was taking this into account. However, she said that although the threats were baseless and there were no images, the injured party was not to know that at the time and it must have been a matter of extreme concern for her.
Det Garda Grogan said both he and a colleague noticed the getaway car immediately due to the way it had been parked sideways

Two bungling burglars pushed their broken-down getaway car to a hotel car park before deserting it with a cache of stolen household items still inside, a court has been told.

Brothers Darren Collins (29), of Marian Place, Tullamore, Co Offaly, and Jamie Collins (20), of Chancery Park Road, Tullamore, were forced to abandon their car moments after filling it with an array of items stolen in a house raid at Cuainin, Marlinstown, Mullingar, Co Westmeath, on July 31 last year.

The pair were caught after an eagle-eyed neighbour to the vacant property spotted four men shortly after 11pm carrying a large amount of property from inside the house to a 07-registered vehicle parked outside.

Detective Garda James Grogan told a sitting of Mullingar District Court how the brothers, together with their two accomplices were seen minutes later pushing the car towards a nearby roundabout.

Darren Collins, together with his younger brother Jamie, were ordered to return to court in November with 2,500 each in compensation for their role in a house break-in in Mullingar just under a year ago.

He said that on arrival at the scene an inspection of the house found a significant amount of damage had been caused to its interior and its bedrooms ransacked.

The court was also told of how fresh blood marks were spattered across the propertys staircase and walls while several of its interior glass panelled doors had been smashed.

Gardai later found the car in question a short distance away in the car park of the Mullingar Park Hotel.

Det Garda Grogan said both he and a colleague noticed it immediately due to the way it had been parked sideways and with the contents of the burgled house still inside.

A check on the vehicle found that its registered owner was Darren Collins while blood found on a side panel matched that of his younger brother, the court heard.

The property located in the car included a Panasonic 32 TV and remote, two oriental lamps, eight glasses, a golden oriental figure, two wicker baskets, a white photo frame and a Revolut card.

The pair, who both pleaded guilty to burglary, were arrested later that same night when gardai were called to an incident where four men had been ejected from a taxi along the Green Road area of town.

Three of those, including the two Collins brothers, were arrested near the car park of the local Tesco while a fourth managed to flee on foot.

The court was also told a bench warrant had been issued for the third member of the gang while gardai were aware of a fourth suspect in a probe that was still under investigation.

Det Gda Grogan said then he arrested Jamie Collins he noticed a bandage covering a fresh injury to his hand.

He told Judge Owens that owing to the latters level of intoxication, he believed Jamie Collins was the ring-leader behind the botched raid, with evidence also showing it was he who damaged a key box to gain entry to the vacant property.

He said the sheer volume of blood found on the stairs that belonged to the younger Collins brother was symptomatic of a very careless person that didnt have any regard for property.

Darren Collins running from Mullingar Courthouse after he pleaded guilty to burglary arising out of a break-in at a house in the midlands town last July.

His older brother, the court heard, played somewhat of a lesser role and made full admissions to gardai as to his culpability during interview.

Det Gda Grogan said while Darren Collins denied entering the property, he did confirm the broken-down vehicle was his and had been used with his consent to store the stolen items taken during the course of the break-in.

Defending counsel Andrea Callan BL said there was no denying the horrific and inexplicable nature of an incident that was very much out of character in terms of both siblings.

A chief catalyst behind their otherwise unorthodox behaviour was rooted in the fact both men had consumed a quantity of tablets provided by a third party on the night, something that had a significantly adverse effect on the pair.

Jamie Collins outside Mullingar Courthouse.

She said Jamie Collinss six previous convictions were all of a road traffic nature while Darren Collins had never stood before a court before.

Ms Callan asked the court to factor in a letter penned by the duos mother, the cooperation shown to gardai during the course of the investigation as well as the early guilty pleas tendered by both men.

The court was told that while the younger of the two Collins brothers lived at home with his mother, the older of the two worked in hotel management in Dublin.

Ms Callan said the duo had come with 900 between them as she implored the court to stay its hand on any custodial sentence being handed down to allow both men to muster together further compensation.

In delivering her verdict, Judge Owens said she would afford both men five months to amass 2,500 each by way of compensation, an order that if complied with could spare a custodial element being attached to any sentence being handed down.

The two Collins brothers were remanded on continuing bail to a sitting of Mullingar District Court on November 21.
The judge said the North Dublin home was initially financed with the proceeds of crime and then refurbished to a very high standard.

James Mago Gatelys luxury Dublin home has been declared as being overwhelmingly the proceeds of crime in the High Court today.

Gately and his partner Charlene Lams exotic lifestyle were also funded by criminal cash, according to Judge Alex Owens.

The Criminal Assets Bureau had argued Gately was a key figure in the Hutch organised crime gang which is involved in armed robbery and the importation of drugs.

Judge Owens said that he found the house at Glin Drive in Coolock, North Dublin was initially financed with the proceeds of crime and then refurbished to a very high standard.

It was previously heard Gately had doubled the size of his Coolock house spending 440,000 on building a two-storey extension at the back of the house bought for 125,000.

Between 2013 and 2019, the couple lived a lifestyle entirely subsided by criminal cash and were almost never in the State between cruises they took to Asia and the Caribbean.

Analysis of their bank accounts found they had access to large sums of cash.

A car, a Rolex watch and the house were all declared proceeds of crime but Judge Owens did not make a final order.

The Rolex seized by CAB

He said that 6,500 from a compensation claim by Ms Lam used to make mortgage payments should be deduced from any future sale.

He also asked for evidence to show any mortgage payments from 2019 were the proceeds and adjourned he case.

James Mago Gately

A receiver was given the power of sale over the car and Rolex.

Outlining Gatelys criminal background counsel for CAB previously said evidence from officers was that he was part of a gang involved in armed robbery and the importation of drugs.

He had been regarded as part of the Kinahan Organised Crime Gang until the murder of Gary Hutch which sparked the lethal Hutch/Kinahan feud.

Gately had also been arrested over a tiger-robbery and a post office heist, according to CAB.

Evidence from CAB also linked Gately to three murders two of which were in 2010 when he was just 24 years old.

He was arrested and questioned over the killing of convicted criminal Aidan Byrne in Dublin 7, a killing for which Jonathon Yuka Douglas has been convicted and sentenced to life.

James 'Mago' Gately

Gately was also linked by CAB to the killing of infamous gangland figure Eamon The Don Dunne at a pub in Cabra in April 2010.

The third murder was that of David Byrne in the attack on the Regency Hotel organised by the Hutch gang.

It was pointed out that such was his importance to the Hutch the gang that he was shot in an assassination bid just a month after Estonian hitman Imre Arakas was arrested in a plot to kill Gately.

The judgement today came after two years of legal wrangles delayed by an application for free legal aid and then the difficulty in finding a forensic accountant and surveyor to write a report.

Judge Owens said today it was spun out for two years longer than it should have been.
Arakas was in court in Lithuania for a a pre-trial hearing for the murder of MMA fighter Remigijus Morkevicius

Hitman-for-hire Imre Arakas has been charged with the murder of a well-known MMA fighter in Lithuania, prosecutors have claimed.

Arakas  who has been nicknamed The Butcher  is one of Europes most infamous criminals and has ties to organised crime gangs in the Balkans and Spain.

The Estonian national was hired by the Kinahan Cartel to kill James Mago Gately in Northern Ireland in 2017 before being caught in the act by gardai.

On Monday, Arakas was back in court in Lithuania for a a pre-trial hearing for the murder of MMA fighter Remigijus Morkevicius in December 2016.

The Prosecutor Generals Office said the case has been handed over to the court.

Morkevicius died after he was shot in front of his house in Kaunas on December 21, 2016.

The investigation was launched after the attempted murder of another man on the night of July 22, 2016 who was shot with a firearm with a silencer.

He survived after emergency medical assistance by ambulance medics.

Charges have been brought against Arakas, the Prosecutor Generals Office said on Monday, as investigations of both crimes revealed that he is the alleged perpetrator.

Milda Kryze, a spokeswoman for Kaunas Regional Court, told Baltic News Service that Arakas was remanded in custody until July 4.

Arakas was arrested in Ireland in 2017 when he was preparing to kill Gately.

James Mago Gately is the Kinahan cartels top target

In December 2018, he was sentenced to six years behind bars after pleading guilty to conspiring with others to murder Gately in Northern Ireland between April 3rd and April 4th, 2017.

Arakas had been contracted by the Kinahan cartel to carry out the shooting and boasted in messages that he would take out Gately with one shot in the head.

He had bought a wig in Dublin and a used encrypted Blackberry phone to receive information about the movements and location of Gately.

Imre Arakas

He also requested a silencer for the job.

He was to be paid a five-figure sum for carrying out the hit.

After serving his sentence in Ireland, the Estonian was handed over to Lithuanian law enforcement in January last year for prosecution for crimes committed in Lithuania.

In December of last year, Arakas claimed in an interview from behind bars that he turned down millions of dollars to become an informer on the Kinahan cartel.

At the time the veteran criminal was behind bars in Lithuania where he was facing firearms and conspiracy-related charges in relation to the shooting of Deimantas Bugavicius in November 2015.

Imre Arakas appeared by video-link in court

Arakas gave an interview to Estonian TV station Kanal 2 where he claimed Lithuanian police tried to get him to give up the Kinahan cartel for a $5m reward.

This is a strange proposal  its abnormal. They want me to give up the Kinahan clan, he said.

I told them to f**k off. This offer for me is pretty crazy  how would they even make this deal  its impossible.

Of course the sums are big and they also promised me a new identity to go and live in the USA with my family.

I will not make an agreement with the Lithuanian police. A terrifying label has been stuck on me and it has little to do with reality.

He also said serving his sentence in Ireland for the Gately murder plot was like staying in a three star hotel and said, prison in Ireland is OK if you were friends with the Kinahans.

Despite pleading guilty to the Gately murder plot, he bizarrely claimed he was only in Ireland at the time to go camping.

Everyone thinks I am an international killer but I was in Ireland for camping. Look at the things I had in my bag. I wasnt going to kill anyone.

Arakas also denied in the interview that he was involved in the murder he is accused of in Lithuania.

Imre Arakas in Dublin

The murder had been widely covered in Lithuania. Bugavicius was previously linked to one of the country's most famous pop stars, Vita Jakutiene.

Arakas travelled to the Lithuanian city of Kaunas along with the two other Estonians and they stayed in an apartment rented by a Lithuanian former boxer Ricardas Baika ahead of the murder of Bugavicius.

Police said they found Arakas' fingerprints and DNA during a search of the apartment.

Arakas told authorities at a previous court hearing that he could not explain how his fingerprints and DNA were in the apartment and said he never lived in the apartment.

The court also heard that police found a number of items during a search of Arakas daughters home in Tallinn, Estonia, including masks, camouflage noses, bulletproof vests, camouflage clothes, a rifle searchlight and a map of Lithuania.

When questioned about this in court, Arakas replied: "Lithuanian policemen were very strict, they took a map of Lithuania, things I had for more than 20 years, my son's shoes.

The court also heard that police found a number of items during a search of Arakas daughters home in Tallinn, Estonia, including masks, camouflage noses, bulletproof vests, camouflage clothes, a rifle searchlight and a map of Lithuania.

As well as the Gately plot, Arakas has previous convictions which include causing deliberate bodily harm, escaping from prison and unlawful handling of firearms.
Colin Taggart was granted bail as he has almost served the equivalent of a year in jail

A Co Antrim man accused of choking his partner and subjecting her to two years of coercive control was granted bail as he has almost served the equivalent of a year in jail.

Freeing Colin Taggart on his own bail of 500 along with a multitude of conditions, District Judge Peter King said given the amount of time the 39-year-old had spent on remand, he had to grant bail despite police objections.

On an indictment covering a time span between August and December last year, Taggart, from Woodvale Park in Bushmills, faces seven charges that are said to be aggravated by domestic abuse, including a domestic abuse offence, two charges of non-fatal strangulation, three of common assault and one of criminal damage.

Taggart is also charged with making and possessing an indecent image of a child, driving while banned, driving with no insurance and possessing the class C drug pregabalin.

The two non-fatal strangulation charges allege that Taggart wrapped a tea towel around the neck of the complainant and that you intended to affect her ability to breathe or the flow of blood to her brain or that you were reckless as to whether this act would affect her ability to breathe or the flow of blood to her brain.

On a separate indictment, Taggart is accused of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm on a second alleged victim, with intent to cause him GBH on January 1 this year.

Objecting to bail, a detective told the court police had concerns that Taggart would commit further offences or would obstruct the administration of justice if he was freed.

She said that both complaints live in fear of the defendant with Taggarts former partner allegedly being subjected to coercive control for more than two years.

According to the woman, Taggart controlled who she was with, who she talked to and where she could go and also that he had installed an app on her phone to monitor who she was talking to and he made threats if she did not comply with his instructions.

The officer told the court the proposed bail address was for Taggart to live with his mother but she added that community tensions are high, revealing there had been an incident earlier this year at an address connected to Taggart where a number of males forced entry and caused significant damage and the house was flooded as a result.

Submitting that Taggart was not in a good place at the time of the alleged offences, defence solicitor Sam Barr told the court the defendant is a diagnosed paranoid schizophrenic who will not be fit to stand trial so he is not likely to receive a jail sentence even if he is found to have committed the acts.

He suggested that as the complainants live in Coleraine and Portrush, geographical conditions could be attached to any bail order to keep Taggart out of those towns.

Mr Barr revealed that despite police concerns about community tensions, certain people had been spoken to in Bushmills and there have been assurance that he can move to the town so we say that the address is suitable.

He has been in custody too long, Judge King told the court, ordering that Taggart could be freed on his own bail of 500, he barred him from contacting either the complainants or witnesses, imposed an 11-hour curfew, barred him from Coleraine and Portrush and also imposed a complete prohibition on alcohol.

Adjourning the case to July 22 the judge told Taggart Im granting bail because frankly, I feel obliged to because of the time that you have spent as a remand prisoner.
Prosecutors say the victim crawled out of 43-year-old Stephen Kennedys apartment

A woman was allegedly struck repeatedly to the head with a hatchet as she tried to escape from her boyfriends home, a court heard.

Prosecutors claimed she crawled out of 43-year-old Stephen Kennedys east Belfast apartment before being found lying in a blood-soaked communal lift area.

Kennedy, of Montrose Street in the city, denies a charge of attempted murder and insists she fell onto the axe by accident.

Belfast Magistrates Court heard police and paramedics discovered the woman on the ground floor of the building on February 29 this year.

She had strike marks on the body and two deep open wounds to her head, believed to have been inflicted by a bladed weapon.

Significant amounts of blood were observed around the elevator, stairwell and in the corridor leading to Kennedys flat.

He was standing outside the apartment block, bare chested and with blood smeared over his face, hands and back, a Crown lawyer said.

Kennedy, who faces a further charge of possessing an offensive weapon with intent, denied any intimate relationship with the woman.

He told police she was just a friend staying with him while in Belfast for a hospital appointment but had become angry when he refused a request to get some drugs.

The accused claimed she knocked over furniture during a subsequent argument, causing a hatchet in the property to accidentally strike her.

She sustained a number of fractures to her head and required nine stitches for two laceration wounds.

In her account to police, she claimed Kennedy had been out drinking before returning to the flat, banging on a kitchen table and demanding his glasses.

He allegedly grabbed the woman by the hair and struck her head off a wall before she tried to hide under the table.

Kennedy dragged her back out before taking an object with a silver sharp edge out of a box stored in the apartment, according to her statement.

As she went to run out the defendant struck her with what she described as a hatchet or axe, hitting her a number of times on the back of the head, a prosecutor said.

She said she grabbed the defendants television and used it as a shield as he continued to swing the axe at her.

It was claimed that the woman fell down and began crawling to get out of the flat.

She stated that as she was lying at the front door (Kennedy) put his foot on her face and forced pressure down, causing her to struggle to breathe.

She crawled out into the hallway while the defendant went back into the apartment and closed the door.

The injured party then crawled into the lift and was at the bottom of the lift when police arrived.

Based on checks of the defendants phone, detectives believe he was in a relationship with the woman.

District Judge George Conner was told she still suffers flashbacks to the incident.

As Kennedy mounted an application for bail, defence solicitor Una Conway argued there were cracks in the alleged victims statement of complaint.

Two very different versions of events are being advanced, the forensic (evidence) will be very important.

Despite predictions that he will not go on trial until next year, Kennedy was refused bail and remanded in continuing custody.

Mr Conner ruled: Im not persuaded that the delay overrides concerns about risk of re-offending.
Ever since he was a child, Noah Lindberg of Elkhorn has wanted to be a firefighter, like several members of his family.

"I've been around it my whole life so it's kind of all I've known for a long time. Growing up, my grandfather and my cousin and my uncle were firefighters so I'm just kind of following in their footsteps and it's been a dream for a long time," Lindberg said.

At the Columbus City Council meeting on June 17, that dream came to fruition as Lindberg was appointed to the Columbus Fire Department by Mayor Jim Bulkley. All that time he spent with the Underwood Volunteer Fire Department watching his family paid off.

Lindberg received his certification from the Civil Service Commission on April 3.

Lindberg is originally from Lincoln, but grew up in Elkhorn, where he graduated from Elkhorn High School in 2023. While he was still in high school, Lindberg took a fire science technology class at Metropolitan Community College and received his firefighter 1 and hazmat operation certification. Before joining the Columbus Fire Department, he volunteered in 2022 with the Waterloo Fire Department.

Columbus Fire Department Chief Ryan Gray said Lindberg is filling a vacancy that was left by a resignation, and the department is happy to have him come on board.

"He's young and he's motivated so we plan to put that enthusiasm at work and it's always great to get people who want to do this job, so we're really excited to bring him on," Gray said.

When it came to picking a department, Lindberg said he liked the size of Columbus Fire Department and the community it serves, noting that a smaller department means people know each other better.

"You're able to have a relationship with everyone and sometimes at the bigger fire departments you're unable to because there's so many different stations, so many personnel," Lindberg said. "I really like that about Columbus, I'll be able to get to know everybody and meet everybody and it's a growing city."

Lindberg's first day on the job is June 19, he said, and he's eager not just to get started in his new work, but to start building camaraderie with his colleagues.

"(I'm most excited about) getting getting to know everybody and kind of build relationships with everybody else I'll be spending time with," Lindberg said.
Fining him 400, Judge Monika Leech told McCormack to write a letter of apology to staff, saying there was no call for such language

A man was arrested for shouting racist abuse at staff at a fast-food restaurant after gardai had to be called over his refusal to leave.

Owen McCormack (54) would not stop racially abusing the security guards at a Burger King and his drunken behaviour continued all the way to the garda station, a court heard.

Fining him 400, Judge Monika Leech told McCormack to write a letter of apology to staff, saying there was no call for such language.

McCormack, of The Links, Donabate, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to public intoxication and threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour.

Dublin District Court heard gardai were on public order duty at OConnell Street on April 6 last when they were called to deal with McCormack, who was refusing to leave Burger King.

The accused racially abused security guards and gardai told him if he did not stop using this language, he would be arrested. However, he continued with the racist abuse, was clearly intoxicated and was arrested. The abuse continued all the way back to the garda station, the court heard.

McCormack was absolutely ashamed of his conduct on the day, his lawyer said.

It was out of character, very wrong and he absolutely accepts responsibility for what occurred, she said.

At the time, the accused, who previously worked as a chef, had been staying in a hostel but lost his place there.

Judge Leech asked what the context for the incident was.

There was a disagreement with security and my client took offence, that is what led up to this, the lawyer said.

He was angry and upset but accepted this was no excuse.

The judge said the case was aggravated by the type of language used.

The expressions Im told that were used, theres no call for such language in our society, the court has to express its disapproval, the judge said.

She fined McCormack on the breach-of-the-peace charge and took the other into consideration.
In April Waldron lost his four-year legal battle with the CAB over his 1.6 million country mansion

RENT from drug dealer David Waldrons properties has not been paid over to the Criminal Assets Bureau despite being declared the proceeds of crime.

A receiver has now been appointed forthwith to take over one of the properties in Leixlip where 13 people were living.

Judge Alex Owens heard evidence that the tenants had been given legal notice of the CAB case as was the man sub-letting the house.

The same man Egidijus Bubnys is also renting Waldrons massive Co Wexford mansion Darview Heights paying rent into a Spanish bank account where Waldron now lives.

An application by CAB to take over the properties was granted by Judge Owens who said the Leixlip house must handed over on 3 July and Darview on 10 July.

A third property where Waldrons now estranged partner Charlene lives at Ratoath Road can be possessed by a receiver on 4 September.

This week the court was told Mr Bubnys had not complied with a court order to have the rents paid over to CAB who made the application for a receiver to be appointed.

A detective gave evidence of speaking directly with him and had informed him that the matter was before the courts again.

The officer said Mr Bubnys told him he had planned a move but that had fallen through and now expected to be out of Darview Heights by the end of the month.

The garda witness added that he was also told that some tenants had moved out of the Leixlip house at River Forest and had not been replaced.

None of them appeared in court to challenge the order to vacate the property.

Letters were also left at Ratoath Road, but there was no communication from Charlene Waldron.

It was heard in court that is estranged from her partner and their interest are no longer aligned and has a new solicitor with respect to an appeal against the CAB judgement

At a hearing last month it emerged Waldrons properties were making 6,450 a month in rent while being targeted by the CAB.

Counsel for CAB at that hearing named Egidijus Bubnys as the tenant in Darview Heights for which he pays 3,750 a month and also rents the three-bed at River Forest for 2,700.

It was added that Mr Bubnys collects income from 13 people who are currently living in the three-bed Leixlip house.

CAB asked the court to have a receiver appointed to all three properties and that no new tenants be allowed to move into any of the houses.

Judge Alex Owens said at that hearing the occupants of all three properties must be put on notice.

In April Waldron lost his four-year legal battle with the CAB over his 1.6 million country mansion.

Judge Owens in his judgement said he accepted evidence that Waldron was a major player in the distribution and sale of drugs in Dublin.

He had purchased a property on Ratoath Road, in September 2001 and then invested in a second property in River Forest, Leixlip, Co Kildare, before building Darview in Co Wexford for 1.6 million.

The 3,000 sq ft mansion in Wexford has its own bar, with a pool table as well as a gym, and views looking out over valleys in the Wexford countryside.

During a previous hearing, it emerged that CAB officers followed the financial trail back decades to show Waldron never had enough cash to pay for his properties.

CAB also revealed how five of Waldrons closest criminal associates were gunned down in the space of a decade.

They were Michael Micka Kelly, Eamon the Don Dunne, David Daithi Douglas, Richard Keogh and Darren Kearns.
Judge Mary Morrissey approved the settlement offer and said the girl had suffered a very frightening experience.

Judge Mary Morrissey in the Circuit Civil Court today approved a 15,000 settlement offer for a 13-year-old Cork schoolgirl who was injured when a Ryanair plane suddenly depressurised on its way to Croatia.

Barrister James Daly told the court that as a result of a sudden depressurisation of the passenger cabin oxygen masks were deployed and Gabriela Gaspar, who was only seven at the time, had become very distressed and frightened.

The aircraft began to heavily shake and to rapidly descend and the cabin was dark and became very cold, Mr Daly, who appeared with Alva Nolan of Gary Matthews Solicitors, said.

He said that when Gabrielas mother, Monika, fitted an oxygen mask to her daughters face she became distressed and continually tried to remove the mask. She became pale and tearful.

The aircraft continued to descend rapidly and made an extremely violent emergency landing in Frankfurt, Germany, Mr Daly said.

Medical professionals boarded the aircraft to administer first aid as passengers, distressed and bleeding from their ears and noses, were directed to remain in their seats, he added.

Judge Morrissey heard that Gabriela, had to wait with other passengers for 11 hours for another aircraft to take them on their onward journey to Zadar airport in Croatia.

Gabriela became terrified when re-boarding the second aircraft and was kicking and screaming while her mother brought her on board, Mr Daly said.

The court heard that in the weeks following the incident Gabriela continued to suffer nosebleeds, headaches and nightmares. Eighteen months after the incident she suffered ongoing nightmares and regularly woke up screaming.

Mr Daly said Gabriela was particularly vulnerable in that she suffered from asthma and took an attack when her oxygen mask was being applied by her mother.

Judge Morrissey approved the settlement offer and said Gabriela had suffered a very frightening experience.
He had previously been prosecuted in England for having more than 1,500 similar images on two laptops at his home and had received a suspended jail sentence.

A 'sex addict' has avoided going to jail after he left images of children in sexual poses on two USB computer sticks at a hostel in Co Donegal.

Robert Browne, who is now also known as Robert Brennan, appeared at Letterkenny Circuit Court.

The 52-year-old pleaded guilty to knowingly having in his possession child pornography to wit, five anime images depicting prepubescent children in nude poses and engaging in sex acts, four photographic images depicting naked poses of young teenage females.

The court heard staff at the Apple Hostel in Letterkenny came across the computer sticks under a pillow while cleaning a room when Browne had left after a stay there on July 27, 2016.

They viewed the images and contacted the manager who in turn contacted gardai in Letterkenny.

They then sent the USB sticks to the Computer Crime Investigation Unit at Harcourt Square in Dublin who analysed them.

The court heard that there were a total of nine images, five of which were described as anime and depicted children in nude poses and engaging in acts of a sexual nature.

There were also four photo images depicting young female children in naked poses.

Browne, with an address at Birkenhead, Merseyside, UK, had been in Letterkenny for a "trip down memory lane" having studied at Letterkenny Institute of Technology.

He had previously been prosecuted in England for having more than 1,500 similar images on two laptops at his home and had received a suspended jail sentence.

Some of the images from the USB sticks were the same images which had appeared on his two laptops, the court was told.

His barrister, Mr Shane Costelloe, SC, said his client had been interviewed at Westport Garda Station in relation to the USB sticks and had made immediate confessions.

He told gardai of the previous incident and how he did not want to leave the images on the USB sticks behind him in the UK.

Garda Sergeant Maurice Doyle of Letterkenny Garda Station outlined the incident which led Browne to being arrested by gardai.

Mr Costelloe said his client was a sex addict who attended counselling and who also counselled others.

He is disgusted and ashamed of himself, has attended court at all times and appeared at the earliest chance of a signed plea of guilty, Mr Costelloe added.

The accused has been a member of Sex Addicts Anonymous since 2018 and has undertaken a 12 Steps Programme and is a sponsor for other sex addicts.

Browne or Brennan had also worked and donated more than 17,000 to the charity to help other sex addicts get help for their condition.

Although from Ireland originally, he lives abroad but no longer works in a field where he has interaction with young people or children.

Mr Costelloe added that a probation report carried out on Browne speaks of his ongoing efforts to rehabilitate himself and how he fully accepts that at the time he was "out of control" but that he now understands his "chronic sex addiction."

Reflecting on his client's lengthy efforts at rehabilitation, Mr Costelloe suggested the accused is "not somebody who is likely to commit similar type offences or engage in such acts again."

Passing sentence, Judge John Aylmer said he was placing the offending for such matters on the lower end of the scale because of the nature and the volume of the material and, before mitigation, it merited a sentence of 18 months in prison.

He said he also noted the decision of the courts in the UK in dealing with a larger volume of material was a 12 month sentence suspended over two years.

He said the delay in dealing with this case was unfortunate but pointed to Covid and also the large volume of cases being dealt with by gardai at Harcourt Square.

He added that it does appear that the accused does not want to be involved in this type of behaviour again and noted his efforts at rehab, his early plea, his donation of 17,000 to charity and the fact that he has no previous convictions in this jurisdiction.

He also noted the probation report is "unusually favourable."

Because of all these factors, he proposed to reduce that sentence of 18 months to one of 12 months.

However, because of the level of rehabilitation he was proposing to suspend the entirety of the sentence for 12 months providing the accused enter a bond to keep the peace and be of good behaviour for 12 months.

He is also to sign on the sex offenders register.
The unprovoked attack by Aaron Holland and two other males, was absolutely and utterly appalling, and outrageous, said sentencing judge, Tom ODonnell

A man who took part in a savage attack on a vulnerable man in Limerick City, walked free from court today, Wednesday, after receiving a fully suspended two year jail sentence.

The unprovoked attack by Aaron Holland, 19, of Marian Road, Templemore, Co Tipperary, and two other males, was absolutely and utterly appalling, and outrageous, said sentencing judge, Tom ODonnell.

The judge said he was not imposing an immediate custodial sentence on Holland, because Holland had pleaded guilty early in the case, he had no previous convictions, and he was the one of the youngest of the attackers.

This was a savage and cowardly outing by the three people involved, it deserves a custodial sentence, but I take into account that the accused (Holland) has no previous convictions, and he has come forward on a signed guilty plea, said Judge ODonnell.

The judge said Holland was part of a feral group of males that was roaming the streets of Limerick City at around 5am on the morning.

The gang had set upon Declan Quinlivan, a 39-year old homeless man, who had been minding his own business.

Holland and the two other men kicked and punched Mr Quinlivan over 100 times and robbed him of cash and a mobile phone, Limerick Circuit Criminal Court heard.

Mr Quinlivan could be heard, on CCTV footage that captured the attack, begging the men: Stop, please, please I beg ye, please stop,.

The gang continued kicking and punching Mr Quinlivan while he lay on the ground, pleading with them to stop.

The attack happened at the junction of Wickham Street/Thomas Street, Limerick City, on May 8th, 2022. The State accepted a guilty plea from Holland to one count of engaging in violent disorder.

At the time, Holland was 17, another of the group was 15, and the third male was 20 years old.

They chased Mr Quinlivan before kicking and punching him 109 times as he lay on the ground.

John OSullivan, prosecuting counsel BL, said the Director of Public Prosecutions had directed that the three accused be prosecuted on a charge of violent disorder as Mr Quinlivan had not made a formal statement to Gardai about the assault and robbery which the court previously heard was captured on CCTV.

At a previous court sitting, Garda Jason Walmsley, Roxboro Road Garda Station, Limerick, agreed with prosecuting counsel John OSullivan BL that Holland and the two other males, were at the time feral youths roaming the streets.

During the CCTV footage of the attack - which lasted five minutes - and which was previously played in court Mr Quinlivan as heard telling his attackers: Take what ye want lads, but please stop beating me.

The CCTV footage shows the men pausing briefly as a taxi passes the scene, and they immediately resume attacking Mr Quinlivan as soon as the taxi passes by.

Although Mr Quinlivan was taken to University Hospital Limerick, no evidence of his injuries were disclosed in court, and he did not make a victim-impact-statement.

Gardai had responded to the scene after they received an anonymous tip off from a witness, and when they arrived on the scene they observed Mr Quinlivan with blood pouring out of his forehead, and three males gesturing towards the victim and making threats to him.

Gardai pursed the three males and arrested the fifteen year old and 20-year old, however Holland managed to initially escape on foot.

Gardai eventually caught up with Holland in October 2022 after he was identified on the CCTV footage.

After his arrest Holland admitted everything to gardai, he identified himself on the CCTV footage, and he acknowledged Mr Quinlivan had been terrified during the attack.

Holland was heard on the CCTV footage threatening Mr Quinlivan, telling him he knew who he was and warning him not to make a complaint to gardai.

Today, imposing a two-year suspended sentence on Holland, Judge ODonnell said: This is a man who was roaming the streets at 5am and himself and his cohorts set upon an innocent victim and meted out an awful beating.

A probation report stated Holland was of a moderate risk of re-offending.

Pleading for leniency from the court, Hollands barrister Donal Cronin, BL, said Holland had no previous conditions, he had consumed alcohol and narcotics at the time, he was fully apologetic for the attack, and he had distanced himself from the other two males.

Mr Cronin said Holland had turned his life around having since gained full-time employment.

Holland looked skywards and took a deep inhale of breadth after the court imposed a fully suspended sentence.

Judge ODonnell told Holland he did not want to see him before the court again: Your conduct was outrageous, completely out of order, and unacceptable, you were a hairs breath of going to jail today - consider yourself a very lucky man.
Seamus Marley refuses to admit guilt after seven years in prison

A former IRA member who was convicted of raping two teenage boys while hiding out in a republican safe house is due to be released from prison next week.

Seamus Marley (52) was jailed for seven years in May 2019 after a jury at the Central Criminal Court found him guilty of eight counts of sexual assault and rape of the two boys in Co Louth on dates in the early 1990s.

The Sunday World has learnt that the paedophile will be released on June 25. The authorities have been informed he will be living in the Donnybrook area of Dublin 4.

Prison sources have revealed that the former IRA man has served the maximum possible length of his sentence after refusing to engage with therapeutic services for sex offenders to prevent reoffending. He continues to protest his innocence.

Since his conviction, Marley, a member of a once-prominent Belfast republican family, made a number of unsuccessful applications to the Court of Criminal Appeal seeking to have the convictions overturned.

He claimed that he was the victim of a miscarriage of justice and a wide-ranging conspiracy involving, among others, his two victims and the gardai who investigated the case.

The rapist alleged the plot included the Spanish national police, who arrested him in Madrid in 2017 on foot of an extradition warrant to face trial for the sex crimes in Ireland.

After his release, he will be subject to a supervision order for two years and his name has been added to the sex offenders register.

In an exclusive interview, Paudie McGahon, one of Marleys victims, has expressed serious concerns that the rapist still poses a threat to children and said Sinn Fein must now explain why the party covered up the scandal when it first came to light over 20 years ago.

"The authorities have informed us that he has never sought therapy or admitted his guilt or shown any kind of remorse  he is in complete denial

The 49-year-old father of three said that he and the second man were horrified to discover that after they made the abuse allegations known at the highest levels of Sinn Fein in 2002, the party knowingly placed vulnerable children at risk by not reporting the paedophile to the authorities.

At the time of the revelation, Marley, who was still a member of the republican movement, was working with autistic children in Dublin and continued in that role for another two years.

The probation services and the gardai must keep a close eye on Marley because I absolutely believe that he is still a danger to children, Mr McGahon, who waived his anonymity to speak out on behalf of himself and the second victim, said.

Despite what he did to me and the other victim, and the fact that the jury had no doubt that Marley was guilty as charged, the authorities have informed us that he has never sought therapy or admitted his guilt or shown any kind of remorse  he is in complete denial.

The abuse of the two men began in 1991 when Marley, then in his early 20s, was hiding out from police in the McGahon family home in Dunleer, Co Louth.

Mr McGahon told the court his father, Jack McGahon, a staunch republican supporter, allowed the family home to be used as a safe house for republican terrorists on the run from the police.

When the abuse took place he was 17 and the second victim was 15. The offences took place over a prolonged period and included sexual assault and rape.

Marley threatened Mr McGahon that his body would be found on a border road if he ever spoke out about the abuse.

When Mr Justice Paul McDermott sentenced Marley to seven years in jail, he said the terrorist had used his standing in the republican movement, which was well capable of clandestine killings to silence his victims.

Survivor Paudie McGahon waived his anonymity to speak out on behalf of himself and the second victim. Photo: Frank McGrath

The conviction of the paedophile was hugely embarrassing for Sinn Fein.

It came a short time after Mairia Cahill  a niece of former IRA boss Joe Cahill  revealed that she had been repeatedly abused by a senior IRA man, which was also covered up.

In republican circles, Marley was considered to be from Provo royalty because his father Larry, a prominent IRA commander who was very close to Gerry Adams, helped mastermind the 1983 mass escape of republican inmates from the Maze prison. He was subsequently murdered by the UVF in 1987.

Mr McGahon first broke his silence about the scandal and the subsequent cover-up in 2015 when he spoke to the Irish Independent.

The truth is that I was raped in my own home by a member of the republican movement when I was a child and then they tried to cover it up"

He said Sinn Fein still has very serious questions to answer about how the organisation tried to prevent him and the other victim going to gardai.

The truth is that I was raped in my own home by a member of the republican movement when I was a child and then they tried to cover it up, he said.

The truth was covered up from the top to the bottom of the organisation and involved both Sinn Fein and the IRA, which are basically all the one.

When myself and the other victim told a Sinn Fein member what had happened to us in 2002, the IRA staged a kangaroo court in my home, which was identical to the one Mairia Cahill was put through after she was repeatedly abused by a senior Belfast Provo.

The man in charge was the same Sinn Fein and IRA member who presided over Mairias so-called court, which was all designed to keep us quiet.

Following the inquiry, the senior member of the IRA Army Council reassured the men that Marley had been found guilty and gave them a choice of three punishments. They said Marley could be shot dead, beaten up or exiled. The victims opted for him to be exiled.

But it was only after Marleys sentencing hearing in May 2019 that the two victims discovered that Marley continued to work with autistic children for another two years after he was exiled.

They also learnt Marley later worked as an English teacher in Asia and Spain.

We were shocked and disgusted when we heard that, he said.

It shows that they [Sinn Fein and the IRA] are only concerned with protecting the movement and have no respect for the law of this country. The party, which I was once a member of, has never explained what it did.

Mr McGahon also revealed that in the years since he waived his anonymity, he has been regularly subjected to verbal abuse by republican supporters on the streets of Ardee and in local pubs.

The majority of the people are very understanding and sympathetic but a small group of Sinn Fein supporters often hurl abuse at me on the street  it matters more to them that I spoke out against the organisation, he said.

They dont care that two teenagers were raped and abused and that the crime was then covered up.

A Sinn Fein spokesperson said: Sinn Fein welcomed the fact that the perpetrator was brought to justice for these dreadful crimes in 2019.

No one in Sinn Fein tried to prevent the abuse suffered by the victims being reported to An Garda Siochana. On the contrary, one of the victims acknowledged publicly that he was advised to go to the gardai by the elected representatives that he met over two decades ago.

If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article, call the Rape Crisis Centre on freephone 1800 77 88 88
Suspected loyalists allegedly sink yacht for flying the Irish tricolour

Conor Costello  who suffered two black eyes  at Altnagelvin hospital last week

A sailor whose yacht was destroyed after he was allegedly the victim of an assault has been declared homeless, the Sunday World has learned.

Former trawlerman Conor Costello hit the headlines after a fight broke out over his boat Amaranthe flying an Irish tricolour while entering a Co Antrim harbour.

And Conor (30)  who lived onboard the sleek sloop  was allegedly assaulted minutes after berthing the 26ft craft at Portballintrae. Pals Gary Parke and Pat Meehan were also on the boat.

But when the yacht was burnt hours later, Conor lost his home.

Two local men, Derek McKendry (63) and another man aged 62, were arrested and have since been charged to appear in court in connection with the incident.

Hours after police arrived during the dispute, however, the Amaranthe was destroyed in an early-morning attack.

The incident shocked many locals in the picturesque village.

Firefighters douse the gutted boat

But speaking to the Sunday World, Conor revealed that as a result of last weeks incident he is now homeless.

He said: The Amaranthe was my home. I had given up my flat in Derry to move on to the yacht full time.

But now Ive had to declare myself homeless.

All my worldly possessions were on that yacht and theyve been destroyed.

He added: All I have now are the clothes on my back.

The father of one is due to meet his lawyers in Derry this week to discuss the case.

Two weeks ago tomorrow, Conor and friends Pat Meehan (25) and Gary Parke (26) set sail from the Maiden City.

They were heading for Douglas in the Isle of Man, where they planned to watch the world-famous TT road race.

But the three-man crew were forced to seek shelter in Portballintrae when they realised their engine wasnt strong enough to cut through the oncoming tide.

It is understood that as they tied up at the quay, an argument erupted over an Irish flag flying from the stern of their yacht.

Eyewitnesses say blows were exchanged seconds before the police arrived to seal off the harbour.

It is believed the police response happened just as a group of several dozen men were making their way on to the quay.

The tricolour flying as it docks in Portballintrea

Gary Parke (26) says he feared for his life as he watched the men descend on the harbour.

Ive never been so frightened in all of my life, he said.

The PSNI is keen to make the public aware it is taking the Portballintrae incident extremely seriously.

Chief Inspector Vince Redmond said: We are treating this report as a sectarian hate crime, and we are reiterating our appeal to the Portballantrae community to come forward with any information they may have.

If you can assist with our continuing investigation, please contact police on 101, quoting ref number 1651 of 3/06/24.
Linas Zukausks and Graham Anderson appeared in Bray District Court

An Garda Siochana in Bray seized some 472,000 worth of cocaine, cannabis and heroin.

Two Wicklow men have been charged after drugs worth over 470,000 were seized by gardai in an operation which took place in the Bray area last week.

Linas Zukausks (46) of Hazelwood, Fassaroe, Bray, was charged at Bray District Court with four counts of possession of drugs with intent to supply at Blacklion Autoworx, Blacklion Enterprise Centre, Greystones. He has been remanded on bail until July 22.

Graham Anderson (39) of Charlesland Grove, Bray, also appeared in Bray District Court charged with 12 counts of possession of drugs with intent to supply at Delgany Hills, Delgany, County Wicklow. He has been remanded in prison until July 1.

On Thursday evening, June 13, the Bray Drugs Unit and Detective Unit with the assistance of the Garda Armed Support Unit conducted an intelligence-led operation into the sale and supply of controlled drugs in the north Wicklow area.

This operation was under the umbrella of the Garda national anti-drugs operation, called Operation Tara .

The operation led to a traffic stop and search of vehicle on the N11 in the Kilmacanogue area at about 8.30pm, when a male in his late 30s was arrested at the scene and detained at Bray Garda Station under drug trafficking legislation. He was then brought before a special sitting of Bray District Court and was remanded in custody.

Follow-up searches in Delgany and Greystones led to further drug seizures and material consistent with the illegal sale of controlled drugs. These searches also led to the arrest of another male aged in his late 40s.

He was also detained at Bray Garda Station under drug trafficking legislation and was brought before the same special sitting of Bray District Court. He was remanded on bail to appear before the court again in July on strict conditions.

An Garda Siochana in Bray seized some 472,000 worth of cocaine, cannabis and heroin.

Gardai in Bray said enquiries are ongoing and large quantities of heroin, cocaine and cannabis were seized during the search operations.

These are now to be formerly analysed and quantified by Forensic Science Ireland, but the total value is believed to be about 472,000 worth of illegal drugs.

Gardai said the goal of Operation Tara is to protect communities from the scourge of illegal drugs in line with An Garda Siochanas mission of Keeping People Safe.

The focus of Operation Tara is to disrupt, dismantle and prosecute drug trafficking networks, at all levels  international, national, local involved in the importation, distribution, cultivation, production, local sale and supply of controlled drugs, they said.

And under Operation Tara, individuals and groups involved in the drug trade will continue to be the target of Garda enforcement activity based on intelligence and the latest crime trends.
"I've been active in this party for a long time, a member for 24 years, I've served eight years as party chair and fought in ten elections.

Minister for Children and Integration Roderic O'Gorman has announced he will run to become the next leader of the Green Party.

In a social media post on X addressed to party members, Mr O'Gorman said: "Today, I ask for your nominations to stand as a candidate in the leadership election that now arises.

"I've been active in this party for a long time, a member for 24 years, I've served eight years as party chair and fought in ten elections.

"In all that time, two beliefs have always stayed with me. Firstly, we must have a strong Green Party in Ireland to put the environment at the centre of public discussion and of political decision-making.

"No other party prioritises attention on climate breakdown and nature loss like the Green Party.

"No other party has brought these issues to the heart of Government.

"Secondly, the party will only build political strength if voters know that we can deliver change across all of the issues that are important to people."

Cabinet Minister Pippa Hackett has also been tipped to succeed Eamon Ryan as an alternative to a Dublin-based male leader.

The Junior Minister for Land Use and Biodiversity is being viewed by a group of party members as someone who could represent the views of Green members outside of Dublin.

Green Party Senator Pauline O'Reilly told the Irish Independent she is backing her colleague in the contest to become the next leader.

"I believe we need a fresh injection of green passion and for me that is what Minister Pippa Hackett brings. She is a bundle of energy and intellect, and understands what it is like to listen to all voices and to stand up for a sustainable future for our children in every part of Ireland," she said.

The Green Party has been thrown into chaos as its senior leaders abandoned the party just over a week after they received a drubbing in the local and European elections.

In a day of high political drama yesterday, Eamon Ryan and Catherine Martin both announced they would be stepping down as the party scrambled to find a new leader ahead of the general election.

The most likely successors are believed to be Childrens Minister Roderic OGorman, super junior minister Pippa Hackett and junior minister Ossian Smyth.

Last night, the Green Party executive set in motion plans for a three-week leadership contest, which would see the campaign extend until near the Dail recess on July 11.
Sets of spheres seen in photos that were unnoticed over decades. Full credit to him.

Sphere described as on the 'right'

Sphere described by Patrick as on the 'left'

An award winning Stanford University Professor has stated an Irishmans UAP global defence network theory should be investigated.

Dr Garry Nolan, a Professor of pathology at the Californian research facility, gives the probability as "100 percent" that extraterrestrials have visited Earth.

He stated last year his belief this has been going on for a long time, speculating that UAP are "emissaries" and possibly advanced drones.

Dr Nolan has worked for the US Government in his laboratory studying the impacts of UAP on human health.

Patrick Jackson

In June 2023, the Sunday World newspaper published the exclusive story of Patrick Jackson, an Irish man who lives in Cambridge.

Patrick had spent 20 years studying the sphere UFOs seen by many in the skies, something which was also grudgingly admitted by the Pentagon last year.

I have been talking to Patrick for over a year now and was among the first to try to get him out there. I think theres something worth investigating, Professor Nolan wrote at the weekend.

The Nobel Prize nominee commented further on Patricks theory, which essentially states that sphere UAP provide a planetary defence, acting as a protection for humans.

Patrick's theory

"I am deeply aware of the situation. I find the results and general observations compellingly worth trying to understand, Professor Nolan continued.

"Sets of spheres seen in photos that were unnoticed over decades. Who would know to hoax them repeatedly until Patrick noticed them? Full credit to him.

Speaking again exclusively to the Sunday World, Patrick said The sphere network has indeed been around for a very long time, it appears to be fully up-to-date and adaptive.

"This suggests that whoever built it is still around and maintaining it - a second species. Harvard researchers suggest aliens may live among us.

Indeed a Harvard study released in early June stated: UAP have been reported in various forms, including spheres, discs, triangles, and other shapes, ranging in size from small orbs to large craft.

Many exhibit flight patterns and manoeuvres that defy conventional aerodynamics, such as sudden changes in direction, high speeds, and the ability to hover without apparent propulsion systems.

"...This is the 'cryptoterrestrial' hypothesis, namely the notion that UAP may reflect activities of intelligent beings concealed in stealth here on Earth (e.g., underground), and/or its near environs (e.g., the moon), and/or even "walking among us" (e.g., passing as humans)."

Patrick provided the Sunday World with further imagery of the spheres he and his colleagues have reportedly been able to observe and categorize.

Sphere described by Patrick as on the 'left'

On the left is the Type3 Sphere at my research location, and on the right is the Type3 Sphere at Skinwalker. It's the same phenomenon occurring worldwide. I can trigger the AI to carry out scarecrow actions.

Skinwalker Ranch in Utah is a location where many sphere UAP were reported during a Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) study.

Much of that work was carried out by another Irishman, Dr Colm Kelleher, from Templeogue in Dublin.

Sphere described as on the 'right'

30 East Drive (Building in Yorkshire), houses a small Type3 Sphere, Patrick continued.

"Due to the house's limited space, the sphere's movement is restricted, making it relatively easy to locate through its emissions.

"Anyone with a basic understanding of network communications will recognize the light patterns as data transmissions.

Patrick's test

This is one of our tests. Just weeks ago a 1.6GHz signal was detected burst relaying at 30 East Drive, the site of the notorious poltergeist in the UK.

"This same frequency, also found at Skinwalker Ranch, is present in so-called haunted buildings worldwide, Patrick added.

Professor Nolan said this week that plans are underway to retrieve UAP for the publics benefit.

"Theres one legal way, which is to go out and look for the evidence ourselves. The stuff that is claimed to be obtained is in the possession of the Government because they got there first, he said.

Sphere details from US Govt.

"We have an amazing detection system, satellites that were spent billions of dollars putting up; when stuff goes awry, they get there first.

There are operations being set up to make parallel retrieval teams that have nothing to do with the Government, to get there first.

"And hopefully not engage in a firefight, he concluded.

Patrick Jacksons UAP theory has echoes of that of another Irishman, Dr Eamonn Ansbro.

Mr Ansbro was one of the first academics in Europe to state publicly that UAP were a reality.

The Roscommon astronomer suffered ridicule for his claims, famously being laughed at on Irelands Late Late Show.

A major documentary is now being filmed about the Connacht scientists lifes work.
The controversial UFC star is known for his wild theories on the popular podcast

Conor McGregors team has coming out fighting after former UFC champion Chael Sonnen made wild claims about why the Dubliner pulled out of the upcoming fight.

A representative for the fighter reiterated to TMZ overnight that it was in fact an injury sustained in training that resulted in UFC303 being cancelled and not the bizarre claims of Sonnen who claimed he was in rehab.

Sonnen had made the unfounded claim  despite the fact McGregors team and Dana White had made it clear the Crumlin fighter had suffered an injury.

McGregor has since also been updating his social media accounts, clearly showing he is not in any facility.

McGregors spokesman Karen Kessler vehemently denied the accusation and informed the US news site, TMZ, that the fighter is looking forward to a new date. She said: The fight was cancelled after an injury he sustained during training. He is looking forward to a new date.

Sonnen made a startling accusation, saying the Irishman was in rehab insinuating this was the reason for UFC 303 cancellation.

Conor posted a Father's day message from his home last Sunday

Dana White, though, previously revealed that the Irishman was injured and the fighters camp reaffirmed that.

The trash talker was on the Good Guy/Bad Guy podcast with another former UFC star Daniel Cormier and claimed: What incredible irony that both sides have these massive interests in alcohol, and one side is in the middle of rehab for substance abuse, including alcohol.

American fighter Sonnen is often known for putting out wild theories in public.

Ariel Helwani has previously reported that theres no salacious story involved in Conor McGregors UFC 303 withdrawal.

It is believed that the highly-anticipated return of McGregor to the Octagon will happen later in the year and it will still be against Michael Chandler.

The Notorious is still the biggest draw in the UFC yet he has not competed since July 2021 when he was defeated by Dustin Poirier after breaking his tibia.

A new date for the fight has yet to be confirmed.
You lead by example and your unconditional love and devotion to them is your super power, she continued.

Ronan Keatings wife Storm has lavished praise on the singer this week after celebrating Fathers Day together.

Storm posted an image of Ronan carrying their young child onto a private jet and said that the vocalist's kids are his world

Your children truly are your world, she wrote.

The Australian woman said the former Boyzone man is humble and willing to do anything for his family to be happy.

You lead by example and your unconditional love and devotion to them is your super power, she continued.

Ronan and family on holiday

"Youre a fun dad, so silly and playful like a best friend but not at the expense of being a parent. Not always easy but you know its for their best interest.

"Everything you do is cushioned with so much love and care and you are always there. Always fixing/ sorting/ making happen.

"Youd do anything for all of us. I think youre an incredible father with the most beautiful heart. We all love you to bits!!

Happy Fathers Day @rokeating we love you so much, Storm added.

Fans of the pair had expressed concern for Storm recently after Ronan posted a cryptic message in May referring to a challenge that she is facing.

The hitmaker, who married Storm in 2015, shared a snap of a new tattoo revealing a black and white drawing of a female warrior holding a sword on the back of his arm as he told Storm he was with you every step.

For you my warrior today and every day, Ronan wrote on the Instagram message. My Stormy. A challenge ahead but your strength blows my mind. With you every step. Love you baby.

Ronan then stepped down from hosting the Magic Radio breakfast show after seven years.

Ronan Keating and son Jack

Ronan added he will leave the show at the end of July so he can focus on reconnecting with his music.

Speaking on the programme, he said: Its been very difficult for me to come to this conclusion, and to make this decision.

I have loved every single minute, this has not been an easy decision at all.

I came on board as you know (Harriet) for a year, maybe two, and Ive loved the job so much that Ive stayed here for seven.

Weve had an amazing time and weve been through some incredibly emotional times with people at home. Those two years that the world changed.

It was an honour to be able to be in peoples homes and communicate with them like we did.

Ronan and daughter Ali

So although I wont be waking the nation up any more with you (Harriet), I look forward to reconnecting with what I did before this  getting back to my music and touring.

Even though Ive been doing it, trying to do both together has not been easy at times.

And getting back to being with my family  you know, doing school runs and those things that Ive missed out on. Waking up with my wife in the morning. I know it sounds ridiculous but its really important and Ive missed that.

Last weekend, Ronan revealed he has been asked to do Strictly Come Dancing  but turned it down due to two left feet.

Infinity pool

Ive been asked to do Strictly Come Dancing, but its not for me, he confirmed.

Ive got two left feet. When I got on holiday, I dont wear flip-flops, I wear flip-flips.

Storm and Ronan

Ronan did though appear alongside his Boyzone bandmates with professional dancers in a Strictly Come Dancing charity show in 2018 in aid of Children In Need.

The 47-year-old also confirmed to Heat magazine the band will never reform, although he did tease that they have something in the pipeline.

Weve got something on the cards, which is coming towards the end of the years and its very exciting.

Its something about the band  a journey and an adventure," he added.

Ronan is touring all over Germany in July, August and September.
A Tauranga election hopeful who spent time in prison for importing drugs says hes learned from his mistakes and wants to use his story to advocate for accountability and change.

Ashley Hillis is standing for Tauranga City Councils first Maori ward, Te Awanui, alongside Mikare Sydney and Suaree Borell.

Hillis, of Ngati Tuwharetoa descent, is open about his colourful background and says he hopes to be an example showing people can reform and grow.

In 2016, a then-22-year-old Hillis was convicted of importing ecstasy off the dark web. He was sentenced to 16 months in prison.

He says he served two-and-a-half months inside, and five-and-a-half months on home detention, then eight months of post-detention conditions.

Eight years on, the 29-year-old works as a steel fabricator.

He tells the Bay of Plenty Times he has thought about standing for Tauranga City Council for a long time and always put it off, but his recent work on city projects such as the Tunks Reserve upgrade crystalised the idea.

I considered not nominating because my age and background from my past might hold me back in that regard. But I think that its important to acknowledge that part of moving forward is confronting your past and confronting what youve done and owning up and being accountable.

His offending involved ordering 10g of ecstasy powder online to be sent to his house. He received an envelope from the Netherlands containing the drug, which he consumed.

He accessed the same website twice more for other orders but Customs intercepted these.

At the time, Hillis told police he got the idea to import the drugs from watching a television programme, and says he deeply regrets his actions.

Hillis had two prior drug convictions, including selling cannabis, but his lawyer argued at the time the ecstasy was for personal use.

Looking back at his 22-year-old self, Hillis says he was in a dark place and looking for something to help him have a good time.

At the time it really didnt feel criminal, he says.

It just felt like I was punching keys behind a computer and then it wasnt until the police were knocking at my door and had raided my house and had come to arrest me that I, really realised the gravity of what I was doing  [it was] very sobering.

Time in prison forced Hillis to reevaluate his life, and his judgment of people.

I havent lived a rough criminal life or anything like that. For me, this whole experience was so frightening, he says.

He says he got through it with the support of his family and experiences of humble, kind care from people, including in prison.

Im here now, so much more of a better person for it.

Once you get to the bottom, theres no way to look but up and thats the truth.

Hillis hopes to use his campaign to advocate for change and doing better with your life and not holding yourself back by limitations of the past.

He says he's never going back to prison.

I know that Ive learned from my mistakes. Im here to be transparent about what Ive done and own what Ive done and move on. And Tauranga, some may say, also needs to move on  were in quite a transformative time.

Hillis says he has not attended council meetings but regularly watches online.

Transport infrastructure and housing are his biggest concerns.

This is my turangawaewae. I just want to see the city thrive again, like it did when I was young.

On how he will advocate for Maori if elected as Taurangas first Maori ward councillor, Hillis says: I think that good results for all are best results for Maori.

So lowered rates, easier to get into homes, and stuff like that because gentrification remains an issue, especially as we look at intensification. How can we ensure that were socially responsible with our housing, too, in order to not push people out of their turangawaewae, their rohe (territory of tribes)?

Ashley Hillis says he hopes to show accountability and transparency in his campaign in the Tauranga election. Photo / Alex Cairns.

Hillis believes in kotahitanga (unity) and intended to join Te Pati Maori protest march on Hewletts Rd last month but became stuck in traffic.

Despite supporting the cause, he feels there could be better, less disruptive, ways to communicate a message. He hopes to exemplify this by becoming a councillor.

He says Maori wards are beneficial as they bring a Maori voice for things pertaining to mana whenua and tikanga.

The best outcomes for Maori are best outcomes for all of us  much in the same [way] that best outcomes for all are best outcomes for Maori because [there are an estimated] 16,000 people on the Maori roll, that means there are 16,000 people, at minimum, here that identify as Maori and their views should be considered too.

The coalition Government plans to reinstate legislation allowing five per cent of voters to reverse council decisions allowing for Maori wards passed its first reading. If successful, the reversal will not impact Tauranga City until 2028, when the next elections will be held.

Hillis says he's not sure if the ward will survive long-term given the usual sentiment of Tauranga but hopes that's changing.

How we got here: Tauranga's first local body election in four years Play Video NOW PLAYING  How we got here: Tauranga's first local body election in four years Tauranga City Council is having its first election since 2019 after four years under a commission's governance. Here's a brief history of what happened. Video / Alex Cairns

Asked to elaborate, Hillis says he believes the city has previously been pretty conservative towards all things, Maori, all things Maoritanga.

Its been a hard sell.

Hillis says people need to vote, even if it's not for him, describing the other two ward candidates as great people.

I would be happy for either of them to win, but I want people to feel empowered by the idea that this is their voice and thats done at the ballot.

On his most recent blog, Hillis offered a whakatauki (Maori proverb) that perhaps summed up his situation best.

E more te patiki e hoki ki tona puehu - the flounder does not return to the mud it has stirred.

-Bay of Plenty Times.
A group of businesses in the heart of Mount Maunganui want development to be pivotal voting issue in the upcoming city council election.

Earlier this month, the Tauranga City Council commissioners recommended allowing more Mount Maunganui buildings to reach a height of 22m under Plan Change 33.

The plan change is in response to the previous government's changes to the Resource Management Act which allowed for greater intensification in urban areas.

Mount Business Association member Kate Barry-Piceno, who is also resource management specialist lawyer, says they invited all mayoral and council candidates to a meeting on Tuesday night at the Mount Maunganui Surf Lifesaving Club to inform voters on their position.

Kate believes the area is Tauranga's most successful commercial centre partly because it's not full of high-rises.

"It's a tourist destination for the very nature of its coastal village beach-vibes feel. We don't want to be a blanket commercial centre, going up to six or eight stories," she says.

On May 24, Tauranga City Council Commissioner Anne Tolley wrote to Minister for the Environment Penny Simmonds and Minister for Resource Management Act Reform Chris Bishop and asked that they overrule part of the recommendations from an Independent Housing Panel, which would have left the permitted height for a building in Mount Maunganui at 12 metres.

Kate says the business association would like the new council to bring their own plan change to reverse the commissioners' decision.

"We don't know what minister Bishop is going to decide, whether to accept the commissioners' recommendation to reject the heading panel."

Mount Matters Group spokesperson Barry Brown says Tauranga is extremely fortunate to have had Plan Change 33 addressed by an independent expert panel.

Mount Matters Group are astounded the commissioners ignored the panel's recommendation when it came to Mount Maunganui, he says.

"The Mount doesn't just belong to those who live there - it's a much loved and hugely important economic driver for all of Tauranga. We can't stand by and watch Mount Maunganui lose its identity. That's why we need to take action," says Barry.

In a previous statement to RNZ, Tolley says Tauranga has a significant housing deficit, which means there is little choice in the type and size of homes available for people to live in, and that the city's housing costs are the most unaffordable of any New Zealand city.

"To help address these issues, Tauranga needs to grow up as well as out," says Anne.

However, she says in the end the development of The Mount is in the hands of land owners.

"Increased heights in places like Mount Maunganui North are needed to increase our housing capacity and enable much-needed future development, but they are not automatic.

"The qualifying matters built into PC33 [Plan Change 33] will help to protect community values and visible change will only happen as people decide to redevelop land in existing residential areas."

-RNZ.
New research into the geology of the Hamilton basin aims to create ground-breaking 3D simulations that will transform seismic modelling for the Waikato and similar sedimentary basins around the globe.

A Waikato University team, funded by EQC Toka Tu Ake, wants to better understand the depositional environments and physical properties of the sediments that have filled the basin over millions of years to more accurately predict how the ground will shake during future earthquakes.

The Hamilton region has historically been understood as low-seismic risk, but the construction of the Waikato Expressway revealed several unknown fault lines that escalated the importance of this research, says PhD student Dave Gardiner, one of the key researchers in the team led by Dr Andrew La Croix.

The Hamilton Basin extends about 80km from Ngaruawahia to Te Awamutu and 50km east to west, reaching depths of around 1.6km.

Dave explains that the basin shape makes the Hamilton area susceptible to amplification of seismic waves, a phenomenon known as the basin effect.

With a significant population and extremely important infrastructure for the country running through this area, like roads, trains, gas and transmission lines, it is important to make this area more resilient against potential earthquakes, says Dave.

EQC Head of Research, Dr Natalie Balfour says the Commission is interested in the Waikato research because it focuses squarely on making the community more resilient.

We cannot change the natural hazards we live with in New Zealand, but at EQC we are working hard to better understand those hazards and look for ways to minimise their impact on communities and property, says Natalie.

Dave says there's not much detailed geological data to work with, but regional petroleum exploration in the 1960s and 1970s has given the researchers an invaluable treasure trove of information to start computer modelling.

Even though all those old records were paper based, we were able to use modern technology to digitally enhance this data and give us a nucleus of information from which to extrapolate a stratigraphic interpretation down to the Jurassic age basement rocks which underlie the region, he says.

The Hamilton basin is filled with marine and terrestrial sediments deposited as layers when the Waikato region was submerged below the ocean some 36 million years ago.

More recent deposits are derived from the Taupo Volcanic Zone and distributed by a braided and shifting Waikato River before it cut down into its present position.

What makes this research internationally unique is the use of forward modelling techniques adapted from the petroleum industry.

This will enable us to capture uncertainty in the sparse and incomplete data, says Dave, who is the perfect example that you are never too old the learn.

The 71-year-old decided to do a degree in earth sciences in his mid-60s, after a career in cartography, geographic information systems, running a pottery business and a clay factory for many years.

Its all about well-being when you retire, so I want to keep mentally challenged as long as I can, says Dave, who then completed a Masters in Earth Science and was invited by Dr La Croix to work on the Hamilton Basin project as part of his PhD.
In July, Tauranga will choose who will be running their city for the first time in five years.

A mayor and nine councillors will replace the four-person commission that has been in place since February 2021.

To keep people informed ahead of the election on July 20, Local Democracy Reporting asked the 15 mayoral candidates their thoughts on four topics.

Over the next two weeks readers will hear from each of the mayoral candidates.

Tanya Bamford-King lives in Judea and is married with two adult children.

The 57-year-old grew up in the Bay of Plenty and had a national and international corporate career. She moved back to the Bay in 1998 and bought her first small business Harringtons Night club.

She has run other small businesses, including Art of Movement Dance, and is currently an accounting and administration consultant for small and medium businesses.

She says her relevant local government experience is her experience running businesses that taught her the traditional skills of understanding and managing finance people as well as the subtle and complex art of herding cats.

These are the skills I will take into my role as mayor. A creative, flexible and inclusive style of leadership, goal oriented, but very curious and open minded.

Bamford-King is running for mayor and in the Matua-Otumoetai Ward.

Tauranga is the least affordable city in New Zealand because of an infrastructure and housing deficit. How would you address this?

Tauranga is an exciting, vibrant, emerging city. But it still identifies culturally as a fairly large small town in New Zealand, with small town values.

This impacts on our growth and infrastructure decisions, contributing to our infrastructure and housing deficit.

If we dont reframe some of these smalltown values, we risk becoming a huge, unwieldy behemoth like our big cousin Auckland.

We need to reframe our "1/4 acre dream" to creating liveable, desirable homes and environments for all of our people, and to recognise there are diverse ways of achieving this goal.

We need to transition from our nostalgic "freedom of the road" ideals, to freedom of movement in and around our city. Holding onto our small town ideals is unsustainable and undesirable.

We need to adapt to the changing needs of our growing population and proactively shape the future of our city.

What would you do to keep young adults in Tauranga and attract others to the city?

We need to become the vibrant, exciting and diverse city we have the potential to be.

A city filled with sophisticated sporting, artistic, and cultural activities; world-class recreational spaces and facilities; a lively hospitality culture; and even late-night dining options on Saturday nights.

To get there we need to shed our out-dated small-town dreams and find our feet and identity as a city. One that attracts and holds an exciting, diverse population.

Tauranga will have its first Maori Ward this election. The Government plans to require councils to hold a binding referendum on Maori wards established after March 2021. This means the Te Awanui Maori ward could only be in place for one term. Given the change in Government policy, is it important for Tauranga to keep this ward?

First I question the appropriateness of Central Government intervening in what is a "business as usual" local council decision. Second wards are set by local bodies to create the best community representation on council.

They may include special wards, including rural wards where population density is lower and requires special treatment.

Creating the Maori wards is not any different to the creation of any other special wards.

The Maori ward represents a significant section of our community who choose to identify primarily as Maori, and to vote on the Maori role, the role size is roughly similar to most of the geographical wards.

Hypothetically, if Tauranga won the lotto and there was no budget what big ticket item would you want for the city? Excluding infrastructure, like roads and water, more housing etc.

The creation and improvement of green spaces and recreational facilities in and around our communities so that there are accessible and beautiful public recreational spaces within walking distance of all homes in the community.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
A Tauranga bird expert needs a boat owner and skipper with a couple of hours to spare, around high tide on June 29, to help with the June shorebird count in Tauranga harbour.

Our bi-annual shorebird counts are usually done by myself and my usual skipper, says Paul Cuming. Alas, this is not the case for the count this month. My usual skipper is away.

The twice-yearly NZ shorebird count is in June and November, with Pauls section covering two off-shore roosts near Matakana Island.

I need a boat ride on 29 June from Omokoroa to Matakana island and then back to Omokoroa. Expenses are covered by our national office at BirdsNZ, Wellington.

Pied Stilt. Photo: Paul Cuming.

Paul says there are several other boats involved, with one based in Waihi, and one near the Tauranga Airport area.

If the tide is high enough, all the birds go to one or two roost areas in the inner Tauranga harbour at Matakana Island. There is also a roost near the Tauranga Bridge Marina and another one near Bowentown.

The NZ Shorebird count which has been happening for decades, is a long-term study instigated by the Ornithological Society of New Zealand.

Bar-tailed Godwit. Photo: Paul Cuming.

Shorebirds counted include stilts, oystercatchers, dotterels, and godwits.

The study has created a huge data set of long-term trends, particularly with our migratory shorebirds like godwits, says Paul.

Bar-tailed godwits fly 11,000-12,000 km from Alaska to New Zealand, with their remarkable flight taking eight to nine days, at an average speed of 56 km/hour. They are counted during the twice-yearly NZ shorebird counts.

Its mystery how they get here because no one shows them where to go. Radio tagging shows that they fly here in one go, its mind-blowing.

The youngsters that come down [to NZ] fresh out of the egg stay here for the winter, so we count those in our winter counts [in June]."

Bar-tailed Godwit. Photo: Paul Cuming.

Paul says the long-haul champions nest in the Alaska tundra region.

The adults depart for New Zealand before the chicks can fly properly. They leave the chicks to fend for themselves and then fly by themselves to New Zealand.

They fly in the jet stream, which is an area of the atmosphere in high wind, so if they have a tail wind it assists them to fly.

The Bar-tailed godwits are one of 35 species which come to NZ annually from their breeding ground in the Arctic.

Pied Stilt. Photo: Paul Cuming.

Paul says they count all shore birds including migrants and internal NZ migrants such as the South Island Pied Oystercatcher.

The conservation value of these birds is quite high, being a native species. The South Island Pied Oystercatcher is endemic and not found anywhere else in the world, so we like to keep an eye on their numbers.

South Island Pied Oystercatcher. Photo: Paul Cuming.

The results are sent to a central database, and eventually will be published, and the trends noted.

Generally, the overseas migrants are reducing in number, and this is a reflection on what land use is happening in Asia with coastal areas changing. The shore bird habitat there is being modified at a great rate, and that is reflected in the numbers that we count here.

The bi-yearly counts are usually done by boat.

However, if a boat is unavailable, we cant do a count.

Any boat captain keen to be involved, with time available on June 29 is asked to contact Paul Cuming on 027 465 8710 or email birdo@post.com

Caspian Tern. Photo: Paul Cuming.

South Island Pied Oystercatcher flock. Photo: Paul Cuming.

A NZ Dotterel. Photo: Paul Cuming.

South Island Pied Oystercatcher. Photo: Paul Cuming.
Antonio Contreras Wednesday, 19 June 2024, 17:22 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Camila Bertello, originally from Cordoba, Argentina, has always loved baking. When she was just a child, her parents gave her a small toy kitchen in which she made simple recipes. A couple of years later she started helping her grandmother Teresita and her grandfather Carlos in the kitchen. Teresita, better known as 'Tichi', has always been a pastry lover and one of the main reasons why Bertello also got hooked on sugar, but only in the kitchen, never on the plate: "I like the savoury stuff much more than sweet things when it comes to eating." Adult life and professional careers meant that Bertello focused her studies away from cooking, although she later returned to baking, selling her cakes via social media in Argentina.

Years later, her husband Maximiliano emigrated to Spain to open Sushi Flower in Malaga, a Japanese restaurant located at Calle Jovellanos 5. Camila left her home country with her husband, bringing her younger sister, Candela Bertello, and her mother, Carina Bruschini. With the three of them now in Malaga, the adventure of Bruschini's Obrador (named after Candela and Camila's grandparents) began. Today, seven months after its opening, the small shop located in Avenida de los Guindos number six, has become an obligatory stop-off for all sweet lovers in the city. The pastry shop offers desserts that are difficult to find in the rest of the city, such as pavlovas (a must-try if you visit the shop), alfajores (a type of caramel cookie) or tarta marquise (a chilled, chocolate torte), with others that are even more popular.

Zoom Candela Bertello, Carina Bruschini and Camila Bertello. A.C.

The flavour of the pastries, together with the charisma and warmth that the three women emit have won them a place in the hearts of the locals. "Malaga, and Andalucia in general, is the closest thing you can find outside of Argentina to our home town," says Candela Bertello.

At SUR we visited the premises to try some of their cakes and confirm that, if you have a sweet tooth, you should definitely stop by Bruschini's Obrador.

The must-haves

Pavlovas, with their crunchy meringue and red fruit heart, are fast becoming one of those desserts that I will think of whenever I am asked for something sweet to put in my mouth. It is said that, no matter how hearty the meal, there is always room for dessert. But when it comes to pavlova, even more so. It is a light snack, one of those dishes that don't really take up any room in the stomach and yet they are the icing on the cake to any meal. With its crunchy texture and sweet, fruity flavour, it is, in my eyes, the biggest must-try on the list.

Alfajores aside, the chocotorta, with its hefty dose of dulce de leche (a thick, caramel sauce), really flies the flag for Argentine pastries. Far from what you might think from its name, the chocotorta is a cake with a smooth, creamy texture, not crunchy at all. It is a perfect mix of chocolate and the famous dulce de leche. Just one is enough because, unlike Pavlovas, I recommend you leave a little room in your tummy if this is to be your dessert of choice.

Marquise tart is best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. The base eschews the typical, crushed biscuit present in so many sweets nowadays in favour of a dense, nut-free chocolate brownie. A good amount of dulce de leche is spread on top of the brownie, oozing out of every corner of the cake. The third tier is a thick layer of whipped cream decorated with nuts. The result is a cake only suitable for those with a really sweet tooth. However, if you are one of those, you're in for a treat. Just like the chocotorta, remember to leave a little room in your belly to include a slice of marquise on the menu.

At the moment Bruschini's Obrador serves its customers in the premises located in Avenida de los Guindos, although the intention of the sisters and their mother is to open another premises in the city centre in the future to serve customers and to retain the current one exclusively for supplying restaurants. In fact, Bruschini's Obrador already supplies a multitude of restaurants with their dessert menu.
Ignacio Lillo Malaga Wednesday, 19 June 2024, 17:04 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Malaga province does not have an electricity grid distribution network sufficient to power large business projects, meaning some customers are on a waiting list to receive it or expand their supply.

The energy demand of the large Andalusian freight hub in Antequera, dubbed the province's 'dry port', will require a tenfold increase in its current electricity consumption, according to sources at Spanish electrical company Endesa. At present, the high voltage network is not ready to supply such volumes, according to various experts in the sector.

In the case of the recently inaugurated dry port, it has been granted 12 megawatts for the moment, but has already requested a further 60 megawatts to meet industrial demand, but this will have to wait. This removes the possibility of hosting one of the potential client sectors that was first considered, the large data centres, which would require an improved electricity supply. According to sources close to the project, just one of these facilities would already consume all the power available in this first phase. To achieve this volume, the developer would need to connect to a substation in Archidona, which would involve 24 kilometres of cable laying.

Projects such as hydrogen plants and data centres have ordered more electricity capacity adding up to 200 megawatts

"There are supply problems with Red Electrica, which is not prepared either to lose power or to supply large consumers," they said. As it is, although three projects have been mentioned, the reality is there is not enough energy capacity in the province to supply a large data processing centre.

On the other hand, for logistics customers, such as dry and refrigerated warehouses, there is supply capacity, among the renewable energies planned for the large logistics centre in Antequera, with the guarantee of grid support. Sources said there is a lot of interest in locating there, especially due to the railway connections.

Antequera mayor Manuel Baron expressed his concern at a recent discussion forum organised by SUR. He called for necessary power supply lines to be installed, with a good cost-benefit ratio, and warned: "If a region does not commit to renewables, it will be closing itself off to all investments from Germany, France or Scandinavia".

Institutional concern

The mayor advocated that local councils should be aware of the need to promote projects in the face of self-interested platforms that oppose them. "In rural areas, a new form of economy and industrialisation has always been demanded in order to generate employment and the economy. This is it. We are going to continue to promote it in a reasonable way because either we have renewables or we have no future," Baron said.

In many other areas throughout Andalucia, companies request power and Endesa tries to find a solution in distribution with studies of alternatives for industrial power, which has to be connected to higher voltage networks, and this usually entails costs that have to be assumed by the requesting party. But there are times when there are no options in the distribution area, expert sources pointed out.

In the case of a demand in transmission (the name given to the large grids, which depend on Red Electrica), it will have to be taken into account that this organisation works with longer-term planning periods: the current one has a horizon of 2026 and the next one will be for 2030. Therefore, the applicant would have to wait for the long-term planning approved by the government.

In these cases, the Junta, with data provided by Endesa, points out the areas where the greatest growth in demand is observed, and asks Red Electrica to consider solutions for these cases. But even so, these investment plan procedures are very slow and with long deadlines, which are not useful for current industrial projects.

Hydrogen and data

The dry port has been granted 12 megawatts for the moment, but has already requested a further 60 megawatts. Amid the establishment of the large logistics centre, other interested investors have arrived, such as hydrogen plants and data centres, adding another 200 megawatts needed to power the area. The 260 megawatts would mean a tenfold increase in the current consumption of the entire region. The expansion of the Antequera logistics park is also in this situation of uncertainty.

There is currently no distribution infrastructure to support this. Therefore, Red Electrica has to create new distribution infrastructure and inject power to respond to the urgent demand for power.

The problem is not exclusive to Malaga province, but happens throughout the Andalucia region, Extremadura and even in Madrid, where data centres cannot find the necessary supply to power their servers. There is also another stumbling block, known in technical jargon as "seized power". These are those power supply allocations that are granted and reserved for developments that are not certain to be carried out; this blocks access to energy for others who have more certainty.

Renewable energies

Renewable projects do have to meet a series of legal checks to gain access to evacuation lines. And they also face problems in obtaining connections to the large grids.

"There is a bottleneck in some parts of the province due to the lack of capacity in the transmission grid," said sources in the sector. Again, this situation is an issue in almost all of Andalucia, which accounts for a large part of the national production of renewables.
Juan Soto Malaga Wednesday, 19 June 2024, 09:53 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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The seventh Ruta del Espeto, a competition to find the best sardines on the Costa del Sol organised by Malaga en la Mesa and SUR, has announced two winners.

Catalin Agape, from the Las Acacias beach bar, and Rachid El Idrissi, from the Tropy beach bar in Caleta de Velez, were crowned the best espeteros in the province at a winner's ceremony at El Balneario de Los Banos del Carmen on Tuesday 18 June.

Las Acacias beach bar's Catalin Agape won the jury's prize, while Tropy beach bar's Rachid El Idrissi won the public's vote in a contest in which more than 40 professionals participated, the highest number in history. The competition was sponsored by Sabor a Malaga and the Diputacion de Malaga provincial authority, with the collaboration of the Costa del Sol Chiringuitos Association and brewing company Cruzcampo.

Zoom Group photo. Salvador Salas

Catalin and Rachid demonstrated their skills in mastering the fire and preparing the perfect dish: "The real secret is to have a lot of patience; be very careful with the fire and put your heart into it," Catalin said. For the grand final, all five finalists had to prepare four espetos of six sardines each, which were then judged by a jury.

In the grand final, the two winning espeteros competed against professionals from Los Leones de Torremolinos, El Caleno de Malaga and La Nora restaurant in Rincon de la Victoria. The jury evaluated the treatment of the raw fish, the flame, flavour and presentation. Enrique Bellver, SUR's gastronomic critic, who acted as chairman of the jury, said it was very difficult to pick out a winner.

Of the two winners, the participant from the Las Acacias restaurant was the first to stand in front of the embers. As a first step, he cut his own reeds because the fire was too low and then chose the two sources of the sardines he was going to compete with (there were sardines from Malaga, Castellon, Huelva and Portugal). In his case - as all the contestants agreed - he chose those from Malaga and Castellon, both from the Mediterranean, "because they are in season and are the best". To finish, he tried to prepare them over a slow fire, moving the embers away and spreading them out, because "the important thing is to have a lot of patience", and to serve them with all the care in the world. "This is a profession that you have to love because otherwise it's hard to stand the fire", he added.

The same feelings were conveyed by Rachid, from Tropy. "The most important thing is the fire: calculating the distance, playing with the wind and making them with a lot of love and affection", he said. In his case, he also chose sardines from Malaga as his first choice and those from Castellon.

Quality and quantity of participants

This year's competition stood out for the quality and quantity of the participants. More than 40 restaurants from all over the province took part in the route this year, surpassing previous events.

Before proceeding to the prize giving ceremony, Diario SUR editor-in-chief Manolo Castillo, thanked all the espeteros for their participation and reminded them they are also partly to blame for the growth that Malaga is experiencing. "If anything keeps the city moving forward, it is people like you," he said.

Pedro Hernandez, from Cruzcampo, also said: "Malaga is in fashion but because of the great gastronomy and hotel and catering business we have".

Sabor a Malaga director Leonor Garcia-Agua thanked them for putting "heart and soul" into the competition and encouraged them to continue working "to maintain our gastronomic traditions".

Another member of the jury, Malaga chef Adolfo Jaime, thanked all participants for making "the most universal dish that Malaga has" - A dish that has something of a ritual about it.
Antonio M. Romero Malaga Wednesday, 19 June 2024, 13:59 | Updated 14:34h. Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Malaga's provincial authority has called on the Spanish government to scrap the summer increase in the price of tolls on the province's two motorways: the AP-46 (north from Malaga city) and the AP-7 along the Costa del Sol.

This Wednesday morning (19 June), the Diputacion urged Madrid to eliminate the increase in toll prices that come into effect during the peak holiday season and maintain the regular rate throughout the year. The request has gone ahead with the vote in favour of the motion with absolute majority of the Partido Popular party and the support of the two Vox representatives, while PSOE and Con Malaga abstained.

PSOE deputy Jose Bernal and the spokesperson for Con Malaga, Juan Marquez, maintained that they agree with the substance of the motion (the request to lower prices) but not with its form since they believe that PP motion seeks "a frontal attack" with central government.

The motion had been presented by Partido Popular spokesperson Cristobal Ortega, who said the request arises from "the refusal" of the government to scrap the toll from the Costa del Sol motorway while discussions were ongoing for a planned railway line extension along the coast.

Ortega said that from 1 June until the end of September, the special tariff level prices are in force, which means that travelling from Malaga to Marbella on the motorway in a light vehicle costs 8.60 euros (the rest of the year it is 5.25) and driving to Estepona goes from nine to 15 euros. "In summer, the cost can reach more than 576 euros per month for those who use the motorway which is the backbone of the Costa del Sol on a daily basis, and which is becoming more expensive every year," he said. Ortega also criticised the increase in the AP-46 monthly pass from 69 to 79 euros, with the rate for light vehicles costing six euros.

Cristobal Ortega said it is an "enormous insult" to Malaga that the motorway rates are being raised while there are discounts on similar roads in Galicia and Alicante. "The people of Malaga have to pay the most expensive toll in Spain per kilometre, with an abusive price that condemns workers, students and families of the Costa del Sol to suffer traffic jams on the collapsed A-7 because the government of Sanchez also punishes us without a coastal train," he added.

'Urgent' calls to improve beaches

During today's council meeting, Partido Popular representatives also demand "urgent" action to improve Malaga's receding coastline.

Partido Popular MP Luis Rodriguez presented a motion calling on the government to undertake a real plan to protect and improve the province's beaches. The government was asked to create a contingency fund to meet costs arising from storm damage, so local councils are not the ones to fork out the money.

Meanwhile, the Socialists will push a motion proposing that the current presidents' office of the provincial authority be converted into a body aimed at combating depopulation, and that a demographic challenge master plan be drawn up.

Socialist deputy and Cuevas Bajas mayor Manuel Lara referred to the report of the provincial authority's report, published by SUR, which states there are 45 municipalities at risk of depopulation.

Claims of sectarianism and partisanship

"After 13 years of PP government, the Diputacion has ceased to be an institution at the service of the towns, which is supposed to be its true purpose. With the PP, the provincial council no longer has the municipalities with less than 20,000 inhabitants at the centre of its policies and actions, now it is the large municipalities, governed by the PP, and the big events that are the focus of the attention of this institution," Lara said, while pointing out the "sectarianism and partisanship" with which Partido Popular distributes subsidies from the president's office.

For this reason, the Socialists propose the transformation of this body into an office of strategic projects and territorial cohesion aimed at helping municipalities with less than 20,000 inhabitants.

Meanwhile, Con Malaga's MP Juan Marquez defended two motions in defence of public services during the council meeting. He was expected to ask the Junta to "significantly" increase the budgets for mental health in the province.

Vox also presented a motion suggesting turning the La Malagueta bullring into more of a tourist destination by "keeping it alive throughout the year with on-site tourist visits", according to its spokesperson, Antonio Luna. Vox will also defend a motion for the enhancement, conservation and restoration of the necropolis of Trayamar, a Phoenician funerary complex from the 7th century BC, located in Algarrobo.
Olatz Hernandez Brussels Wednesday, 19 June 2024, 16:32 Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Nato secretary general Jens Stoltenberg's continuous calls to increase military spending have led to 23 allied countries closing the year with an investment in defence of more than 2% of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP), compared to the ten that achieved this in 2023. However, Spain is at the bottom of this list, being the allied country that allocates the least percentage of its GDP to defence, with just 1.28%.

It is far from the target set by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization alliance. Other countries lagging behind are Canada, Belgium, Luxembourg and Slovenia. In contrast, the allies that spend the most are Poland (4.12%), Estonia (3.43%) and the United States (3.38%). The data provided by the Atlantic Alliance show a rearmament of allied countries following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has led Nato to double its military spending this year to 17.9%.

In his meeting with US President Joe Biden, Stoltenberg said "this is the biggest increase in decades", which shows Natomember states are "stepping up" and "taking responsibility". The Norwegian has already expressed on numerous occasions his intentions for the 2% spending to be considered "a floor and not a ceiling".

Rutte wins more support

The military alliance is trying to pave the way for its Washington summit, to be held from 9 to 11 July. The summit will be used to appoint the next Nato secretary general to replace Stoltenberg, with Hungary announcing on Tuesday it will support the candidacy of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte. Viktor Orban announced he will back Rutte's aspirations, after the latter assured him in a letter he would respect Budapest's decision not to participate in the support for Ukraine.

The two leaders met on the sidelines of Monday's informal meeting of European Union (EU) leaders in Brussels. Rutte also met with the leaders of Romania and Slovakia, the other two allies who had not yet endorsed his candidacy for Nato chief.

In the Hungarian case, part of his rejection of Rutte stemmed from the Dutch Prime Minister's remarks about Hungarian regulations banning lectures on homosexuality in schools, which Orban considered an insult.

Far from the target

In his letter on Tuesday, Rutte pointed out Hungary's "valuable" role in the military alliance as a stabiliser in the region and acknowledged the country's work in the war in Ukraine, taking in thousands of refugees. He also said he will respect the pact between Stoltenberg and Orban to exempt Hungary from participating in military and economic support for Kiev.

Orban's response was swift: "Hungary is ready to support Prime Minister Rutte's candidacy for Nato secretary general," the Hungarian leader said. On Tuesday, Slovakia announced it will also back the Dutch Prime Minister as the next Nato secretary general. As a result, leaders are gradually closing ranks around Rutte, who is the most widely supported contender for Nato secretary general.
Some of the team with one of the beluga whales.

Maria Gardo Valencia Wednesday, 19 June 2024, 16:19 | Updated 17:26h. Opciones para compartir Copiar enlace

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Two beluga whales have been rescued from a dolphinarium in war-torn Ukraine and transferred to an aquarium in Spain's Valencia.

Marine specialists from the Oceanografic in Valencia and the American aquariums of Georgia Aquarium and SeaWorld carried out the high-risk international operation to rescue the two beluga whales from the NEMO Dolphinarium in Kharkov, which is under constant threat from Russian missiles.

The animals, a 15-year-old male called Plombir and a 14-year-old female called Miranda, arrived at the Oceanografic in Valencia on Tuesday 18 June in good health after a long journey from the conflict zone.

The evacuation of the beluga whales started with a 12-hour drive from Kharkov to Odessa. From there, the Ukrainian keepers met with teams from the Oceanografic, Georgia Aquarium and SeaWorld, who carried out veterinary checks. After the check-up, they resumed their journey to the border with Moldova. The collaboration of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) was then crucial in speeding up the border crossing and reducing the arrival time at Chisinau Airport in Moldova.

Zoom Some of the animal care team with one of the beluga whales. Oceanografic

A plane, specially chartered for the beluga whales and carrying six international animal care experts, then successfully completed its transfer to Valencia after a five-hour flight.

On their arrival, the beluga whales were transferred to Oceanografic in two large vehicles. Generalitat Valenciana president Carlos Mazon said: "this rescue, which has been carried out in a situation of extreme danger, is a historic milestone at world level in terms of animal protection".

"It is an honour that the Oceanografic has two new beluga whales that have been rescued from the horror of the war in Ukraine and have been going through a difficult situation over the last few months, and that the Oceanografic's great professionals are going to work hard to help them recover."
Syracuse, N.Y.  Firefighters have identified the two families injured in a house collapse and possible explosion on Carbon Street.

One family was visiting another around 4 p.m. at 205 Carbon St., when the home suddenly collapsed, authorities said. A total of 12 people were hospitalized, firefighters said. One person was treated and is not at the hospital, said District Chief Matthew Craner, a spokesperson for the Syracuse Fire Department.
Eight colleges in New York were among the 50 most expensive in the United States during the 2022-2023 school year, according to National Center for Education Statistics.

The center, part of the federal Education Department, gathers statistics, including cost data, from schools across the country. Syracuse.com used the centers data to rank colleges by total cost for out-of-state students living on campus in the 2022-2023 year.

The center had data for 1,968 schools.

Several schools in Upstate New York were among the 50 most expensive last year, including Colgate University, Cornell University and the University of Rochester.

Colgate, located in Hamilton, about an hour southeast of Syracuse, was the priciest college in Upstate New York during the 2022-2023 school year with a total cost of $83,650.

Syracuse University did not make the top 50 nationwide. It ranked No. 65 in the U.S. last year with a total cost of $80,947.

The full list of New York colleges among the countrys top 50 most expensive included:

Columbia University in the City of New York: $86,097 (No. 4 in U.S.)

The New School: $85,097 (No. 9 in U.S.)

Barnard College: $84,409 (No. 16 in U.S.)

Fordham University: $83,666 (No. 24 in U.S.)

Colgate University: $83,650 (No. 25 in U.S.)

Vassar College: $83,610 (No. 27 in U.S.)

Cornell University: $83,196 (No. 35 in U.S.)

University of Rochester: $82,600 (No. 45 in U.S.)

Nationwide last year, the most expensive college was Northwestern University, located north of Chicago, with a total cost of $89,394. No. 2 was the University of Chicago at $86,856.

A total of 79 of the colleges for which federal data was available had a total cost of over $80,000 during the 2022-2023 year.

You can see the full list of the nations 50 most expensive schools in the table below. If you cant see the table, click here to open it in a new window.

Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598
Urban Leaf officially opened its doors in Manhattans Midtown East neighborhood on April 18, and is currently serving about 200 customers per day.

In its first month of business, the store has been attracting a customer base mostly consisting of office workers over the age of 30 who commute to the city, said owner Joseph Abramov.

In a Q&A with NY Cannabis Insider, Abramov answered questions about what customers are buying, operating in Manhattan and challenges in New Yorks legal weed industry.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

About how many customers are you seeing per day? How does that compare to your projections before opening?

At least 200 customers a day. I was thinking, How the hell am I going to get 200 to 300 customers a day to walk through this door  not even on day one, lets say day two or day three? And then, surprisingly enough, I realized that cannabis is in very high demand; people make their way to you, they find their way to you.

How many workers do you employ?

We have about 15.



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What kinds of products are selling the most?

I would say pre-rolls are probably the No. 1 seller. And then I would say flower and edibles are probably competing with each other for No. 2.

What brands are selling the most?

Were selling a lot of RYTHM, ayrloom and Holiday products.

Which demographics do you see as your target market?

Definitely not young crowds. We definitely dont have a lot of people coming inside here who are in their early 20s. Most of our clientele, I would say, are probably 30 and up. What we actually have near us is a lot of office workers on Third Avenue  one street over. Corporate people usually come during their lunch hour. Then we have this 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. rush where people are on the way home after work. Only like 20% of our business are people from the neighborhood.

Can you describe your business experience outside of cannabis?

Ive been a real estate investor for about 12 years.

How does that experience translate to running a cannabis dispensary?

My experience in real estate helped me up to the stage where I opened the store  meaning the construction was fairly simple, finding the store was simple because I had sort of access to certain programs. I was able to reach out very easily to landlords myself, partly because I knew what would make a dispensary tenant more attractive to these landlords.

That definitely helped me get a store up and running. But after that, its a completely different animal. Retail is a whole different game that Im learning daily.

How much of a problem do illicit cannabis shops present to your business?

Manhattan is very dense: a lot of buildings, a lot of people. So each illegal dispensary would definitely impact the legal ones. And in my area, theyve only shut down one of them. There are still three four operating across the street for me.

What state cannabis policies/regulations do you think are the most challenging to your business?

New York has weird regulations regarding marketing. For example, billboards and signage is legal, I believe, in New Jersey; but in New York, it isnt legal. So theres a lot of discrepancies between New Jersey and New York and it seems that New Jerseys are way more lax and open. You cant give discounts to your employees here  how do you explain to your employees that you cant give them a discount?

What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs planning on opening dispensaries?

Educate yourself. Do your homework obviously and collaborate with the right professionals. Work with the right people. Go to events, constantly learn about new things, products, trends, regulations.
More than $4.7 million from a Juul settlement with New York State will go to Central New York counties to help reduce and prevent underage vaping.

The money comes from a $462 million multi-state settlement of a lawsuit against Juul Labs, the national electronic cigarette company, the state Attorney Generals Office said Tuesday.

The settlement punished Juul for its role in the youth vaping epidemic that led to a dangerous rise in underage e-cigarette use nationwide, the AGs office said.

New York state will receive $112.7 million. Every county, Board of Cooperative Educational Services, the Syracuse City School District and the five largest cities in the state will get money to support programs.

The money will go toward public education campaigns to prevent e-cigarette use among young people in communities, schools and colleges.

The programs will also enforce vaping laws and regulations, and to research e-cigarette use among young people and the effectiveness of anti-vaping programs.

In 2015, Juuls emergence fed e-cigarette use among New York high school students. By 2019, the proliferation of vaping led to a national outbreak of severe vaping-related illnesses, with more than 2,500 hospitalizations, the AGs Office said.

The states that sued Juul investigation found that Juul marketed its e-cigarettes to underage teens with launch parties, product giveaways and ads and social media posts using youthful models.

The funds will be split this way:

Counties

Cayuga County will receive $397,684.96

Cortland County will receive $276,771.10

Madison County will receive $396,519.43

Onondaga County will receive $1,452,272.89

Oswego County will receive $582,809.54

School Districts / BOCES

Syracuse City School District will receive $322,481.76

Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES will receive $188,908.33

Onondaga-Cortland-Madison BOCES will receive $857,352.80

CiTi BOCES in Oswego will receive $299,339.81

Staff writer Darian Stevenson covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at dstevenson@syracuse.com
Syracuse, N.Y.  Two refugee families who escaped persecution in Southeast Asia were celebrating a religious holiday Tuesday when a blast leveled a home on Syracuses North Side, a city official said.

One of the families had been in the United States for 12 days, according to Common Councilor Chol Majok. Majok is a refugee, formerly of South Sudan.

The two families had gathered to celebrate Eid al-Adha, a major holiday for Muslims. They were there to break bread, Majok said.

The seven-person family renting the home at 205 Carbon St. had originally moved to the United States five years ago, Majok said. The visitors, a Syracuse family of six, had only been in the country for 12 days, he said.

Both families were originally from Myanmar, and part of the Rohingya ethnic minority group that has faced decades of persecution. The U.S. government has said the military in Myanmar is committing genocide and crimes of humanity against the group.

Three young children are fighting for their lives with injuries and burns from the blast that crumpled the two-story rental home.

Twelve people were hospitalized after the collapse, officials said. All were in stable condition, except for the three youngest victims, who were in critically stable condition: an 8-month-old, 2-year-old and 3-year-old, according to District Chief Matthew Craner, a fire department spokesperson. One child was treated but not admitted to a hospital, he said.

Majok said he went to the hospital Wednesday afternoon to visit the injured, who were spread across multiple floors. One person is on a ventilator, he said.

Investigators believe the explosion might have been related to natural gas service inside the home, Craner said. Firefighters found downed power lines and a heavy odor of natural gas when they arrived.

Pressure tests by National Grid found no issues with the gas line running from Carbon Street to the homes meter, Craner said.

District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said his office was part of the investigation and that they were focused on appliances inside the home. The investigation is not criminal, said Craner, the fire department spokesperson.

Majok said he is working with local organizations to create a way for people to donate to the two families.

We are asking the community to help ... these families to re-establish themselves, he said.

Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Three young children were in critically stable condition at the hospital after a home collapsed onto them Tuesday afternoon on Syracuses North Side, officials said.

Twelve people were hospitalized after the collapse at 205 Carbon St., officials said. All were in stable condition, except for the three youngest victims: an 8-month-old, 2-year-old and 3-year-old, District Chief Matthew Craner, a fire department spokesperson, said Wednesday morning.

A family of seven people rented the home, Mayor Ben Walsh said. A family of six people, also from Syracuse, was visiting at the time of the collapse, he said. All were accounted for.

National Grid was working to determine whether natural gas played any part in the collapse, Craner said. Heavy equipment is being brought in to perform pressure tests on the gas line running from the street to the homes meter and ensure it was not damaged, according to company spokesperson Jared Paventi. Those safety checks must be completed before city investigators can get back into the home to continue their work.

Craner said investigators believe there was an explosion at the home, based on the severity of the damage. They are working to trying to find out what caused the blast, he said.

They also believe a car found under the rubble did not crash into the home or cause the collapse, Craner said, and was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Firefighters rescued a child from the car.

Multiple people called 911 shortly after 4 p.m. Tuesday to report what sounded like an explosion. Two neighbors told Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard that their homes shook.

Firefighters found downed power lines and a heavy odor of natural gas when they arrived, officials previously said.

Firefighters worked to shore up the remaining structure before specially trained crews went inside to search for any remaining people who were trapped. They spent 45 minutes searching and found no one.

The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control in Albany sent a team of search dogs to comb through the rubble, firefighters said. A cadaver dog was brought in by the state police.

Walsh said he was relieved to hear that most of the victims were in stable condition, but cautioned that, were not out of the woods yet.

Walsh added that he was grateful for the efforts of first responders and neighbors who pitched in to help people at the scene of the collapse.

The two-bedroom, one-bathroom home was constructed in 1920, according to county records. It is owned by Minh C. Tran, of Liverpool, records show.

There were no active code violations for the home as of Tuesday afternoon, according to city records.

Walsh said the city plans to demolish what remains of the home once all investigations are completed.

Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, photo, question or comment? Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or rkirk@syracuse.com.

Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Syracuse fire investigators think an explosion inside a North Side house Tuesday leveled the building, devastating two families of refugees to the United States.

Three young children are fighting for their lives with injuries and burns from the blast that crumpled the two-story rental home.

Crews picked through what remains of the home at 205 Carbon St. to narrow the cause to something inside the house, according to District Chief Matthew Craner, a city fire department spokesperson.

Twelve people were hospitalized after the collapse around 4 p.m. Tuesday, officials said. All were in stable condition, except for the three youngest victims, who were in critically stable condition: an 8-month-old, 2-year-old and 3-year-old, Craner said. One child was treated but not admitted to a hospital, he said.

Eight children are being treated at Upstate Golisano Childrens Hospital with injuries that include second- and third-degree burns, according to Dr. Kim Wallenstein, the hospitals pediatric trauma medical director.

Several also had blast injuries consistent with an explosion, such as fractures and head injuries, Wallenstein said. Some of the children could be released as soon as Wednesday afternoon, she said.

The blast tore through two families from Burma, according to Syracuse Common Councilor Chol Majok.

One family was visiting another family at the home, officials said. The visiting family was part of a Catholic Charities resettlement program, according to Kacee Shuler, the nonprofits director of donor engagement. Authorities released their names Wednesday.

Investigators believe the explosion might have been related to natural gas service inside the home, Craner said. Firefighters found downed power lines and a heavy odor of natural gas when they arrived.

Pressure tests by National Grid found no issues with the gas line running from Carbon Street to the homes meter, Craner said.

District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said his office was part of the investigation and that they were focused on appliances inside the home. The investigation is not criminal, said Craner, the fire department spokesperson.

Amid the wreckage, a childs winter coat could be seen still hanging on a hanger in a closet. The blast sent the clothes sliding to one side of the rail.

The blast echoed around the neighborhood. The quiet has since been replaced with the high-pitched wail of sirens and rumble of construction vehicles.

An official with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is also investigating the blast, Craner said. A special agent based in Syracuse who is also a certified explosives specialist is helping, according to ATF spokesperson Amanda Hay.

Mayor Ben Walsh said he was grateful for the efforts of first responders and neighbors who helped people at the scene.

Multiple people were able to exit the home on their own, or with the help of neighbors who rushed over. Firefighters worked to pull other people out of the house, including a child trapped in a car crushed by the collapsed home. Several small fires were put out inside the home.

Crews then worked to shore up the remaining structure before specially trained crews went inside late Tuesday to search for any remaining people who were trapped. Firefighters spent 45 minutes searching and found no one.

The New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control in Albany sent a team of search dogs to comb through the rubble, officials said. A cadaver dog was brought in by the New York State Police.

The two-bedroom, one-bathroom home was constructed in 1920, according to county records. It is owned by Minh C. Tran, of Liverpool, records show. Craner said Syracuse police had been in touch with Tran.

There were no active code violations for the home as of Tuesday afternoon, according to city records.

City officials said they plan to demolish what remains of the home once all investigations are completed.

Staff writer Jon Moss covers breaking news, crime and public safety. He can be reached at jmoss@syracuse.com or @mossjon7.

Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, photo, question or comment? Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or rkirk@syracuse.com.
A 68-year-old hiker from Amsterdam got separated from his hiking party on the night of June 12 while they were descending Mount Marcy, New York States highest peak. The last time anyone saw him was above Slant Rock Junction.

The following day, 19 Department of Environmental Conservation forest rangers searched for the missing hiker. The Marcy Dam and Johns Brook caretakers checked registers and the immediate areas near the outposts. New York State Police helicopter flew over drainages and trails, looking for the man.

Later that evening, two hikers saw the missing hiker approaching the trail from the Johns Brook drainage and assisted him to the lodge. Rangers helped the man back to the south side trail and then to Smith Way.

Rangers transport a 42-year-old hiker who injured her ankle while climbing Buck Mountain last week.NYSDEC

The following reports are excerpted from DEC:

On the afternoon of June 13, a 42-year-old from Rensselaer County injured her ankle while climbing Buck Mountain. Four rangers splinted the hikers lower leg and packaged her into a wheeled litter, then transported her one mile to the trailhead on Shelving Rock Road where they were met by an ambulance.

Two rangers encountered a person with an outstanding warrant on a grand larceny charge while inspecting a campsite at Buck Hill State Forest in Oneida County on June 11. Rangers took the person into custody without incident and transported them to the New Hartford Police Department.

On the evening of June 13, two kayakersa 76-year-old from Jay and 60-year-old from Au Sable Forksgot stranded on Taylor Pond, unable to paddle against the wind. They instead paddled to the nearest shoreline and called for help. An angler transported a ranger to the kayakers in his boat. The ranger helped got the kayakers aboard, retrieved the kayaks, and helped bring the pair safely to Taylor Pond campground.

On the night of June 14, rangers helped in the search for a despondent person in the area of Good Luck Lake, Hamilton County. Crews found the persons dead body the next morning and carried it out. State police are investigating.

Last week, rangers, along with staff and volunteers from other government agencies, conducted two prescribed fires in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve totaling 16 acres.NYSDEC

Last week, rangers, along with staff and volunteers from DECs Division of Lands and Forests, Albany Pine Bush, State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted two prescribed fires in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. One fire burned 10 acres in the preserve, the other 16 acres.

An 82-year-old angler went missing on June 13 in the vicinity of the Black River. The next morning, six rangers, along with state police, searched for the man using K9, aviation, drone, airboat, and road patrol resources. Around noon, a witness reported seeing the missing man the previous night on a tributary to the main river. Search crews shifted efforts to that area and found the angler deceased along a trail leading from the river back to the road. Rangers used a wheeled litter to transport the body to an ambulance.

A 55-year-old from Pomona and 45-year-old from New City went missing on June 15 while riding ATVs in Delaware County. Rangers, along with state and local law enforcement, searched for the pair until well after midnight. At 6:30 a.m. the next day, the ATV riders returned to camp in good health. They had lost the trail, built a fire to stay warm, and found the trail when daylight returned.



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Rangers rescue three injured, disoriented elderly hikers in Adirondacks - newyorkupstate.com

Rangers rescue ADK hiker badly injured in 20-foot fall - syracuse.com

Elderly man lost in ADKs rescued by forest rangers - newyorkupstate.com

Forest rangers rescue injured ADK hikers; conduct prescribed fires on 100 acres - newyorkupstate.com

Forest rangers conduct controlled burns on 261 acres across New York State - newyorkupstate.com

Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors for The Post Standard, syracuse.com and NYUP.com. Contact him at sfeatherstone@syracuse.com or on Twitter @featheroutdoors. You can also follow along with all of our outdoors content at newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/ or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/upstatenyoutdoors.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Fanny Villarreal and her opponent, Caleb Slater, agree on many issues important to Republican voters in the 48th Senate District primary election. But those issues have taken a back seat in a campaign marked by mudslinging from the candidates and their supporters.

Villarreal, 56, of the town of Onondaga, has led the YWCA of Syracuse and Onondaga County for more than a decade. She moved to Syracuse in 1993 from Peru and became a leader in Syracuses Latino community.
Liverpool, N.Y.  Residents in Liverpool voted Tuesday to move village elections from June to November.

The proposition passed 285-184, according to unofficial results from the Onondaga County Board of Elections Wednesday.

The change takes effect starting next year.
When building a house, have you heard it said that the foundation is the most important and crucial step? We often say the foundation of the house is key to its integrity, strength and health. What about how we build our lives? How do we go about building our spiritual lives?

We strive to develop our spiritual qualities or attributes  sometimes referred to as virtues. The Bahai faith teaches us to build our lives on the Word of God and the acquisition of these spiritual qualities. In fact, all the great faiths inspire the love of God, love for humanity, and teach the importance of cultivating the human heart to mirror the attributes of the Holy Ones.

Truthfulness is the foundation of all human virtues, according to the Bahai Holy Writings, suggesting that this particular quality  call it truthfulness, honesty or trustworthiness  is the foundation for building our spiritual lives. That same quote goes on to say: Without truthfulness, progress and success, in all the worlds of God, are impossible for any soul. When this holy attribute is established, all the divine qualities will also be acquired.

Bahaullah, the prophet-founder of the Bahai faith who penned the Bahai Revelation in the 1800s said: The purpose of the one true God in manifesting Himself is to summon all mankind to truthfulness and sincerity, to piety and trustworthiness, to resignation and submissiveness to the will of God, to forbearance and kindliness, to uprightness and wisdom. He tells us that, The light of a good character surpasses the light of the sun and the radiance thereof.

What happens to a society when that foundation starts crumbling? Today, we face many assaults on the principle of truth. Surveys show that many think America is experiencing a crisis relative to facts and truth.

How many times have you heard the expression: Trust is the foundation of all relationships? As humans, we depend on a belief in truth for all our relationships, our institutions and our society as a whole. We are witnessing a path toward collapse when people lose trust in each other and our institutions.

When we build a life centered in our faith and spiritual beliefs, the foundation must be laid with care, integrity, sincerity and truthfulness. Bahaullah highlights truthfulness using another metaphor, asking us to consider faith as a tree, saying: Its fruits, leaves, boughs and branches are, and have ever been, trustworthiness, truthfulness, uprightness and forbearance.

The Divine Creator has given humanity the gift  and the challenge  of free will. We can choose to cultivate honesty and trustworthiness in ourselves, our children and all our endeavors and relationships. At this potentially transformational moment we are living in, we are faced with many critical choices. As Bahais, we are asked to translate the love and devotion for our faith into deeds and actions that will be conducive to the highest good of humanity.

We need a foundation of trust, a coalescing around values and virtues and a commitment to build our collective lives together on a solid foundation. This involves us knowing who we are, as spiritual beings, and developing qualities that, according to the Bahai Holy Writings, will serve to bring forth our true station in the world of being.

Lest we underestimate what trustworthiness means for our foundation, Bahaullah proclaims: Verily it is the door of security for all that dwell on Earth and a token of glory on the part of the All-Merciful. He who partaketh thereof hath indeed partaken of the treasures of wealth and prosperity. Trustworthiness is the greatest portal leading unto the tranquility and security of the people. In truth the stability of every affair hath depended and doth depend upon it. All the domains of power, of grandeur and of wealth are illumined by its light.

Thats why trustworthiness is considered a cardinal virtue in the Bahai faith with truthfulness as the foundation of all virtues. Imagine how this one quality could transform our world. Beautify your tongues, O people, with truthfulness, says Bahaullah, and adorn your souls with the ornament of honesty. Beware O people that ye deal not treacherously with anyone. He urges us to, Be ye the trustees of God.

He also says: Should each one of the friends take upon himself to carry out, in all its integrity and implications, only one of the teachings of the faith, with devotion, detachment, constancy and perseverance and exemplify it in all his deeds and pursuits of life, the world would become another world.

Thats transformation! Let us reflect upon what our world would look like if that one teaching was truthfulness, in other words, if we were all honest and trustworthy.
TL;DR: While asteroids fly by us, probably more than you think, it is rare for five near-Earth asteroids to zip by our planet over a few days. Fortunately, none present a danger to our planet. However, the day may well come when one does. Will NASA be able to step up and protect Earth from a disastrous collision?

Today is a busy day for skywatchers. Two airplane-sized asteroids will hurtle past Earth at about 1,550,000 and 3,830,000 miles away. On Thursday, another nearly the size of a house will fly by a mere 447,000 miles away. Finally, on June 21, two more will pass at a more comfortable margin of 1,450,000 miles and the other at 3,380,000 miles. While 400,000-3,000,000 miles seems like a lot of distance, these are all uncomfortably close, according to NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Most asteroids go by Earth at a safe distance, orbiting between Mars and Jupiter. However, some will circulate into the inner solar system, becoming near-Earth asteroids. These space rocks have a trajectory that could bring them within 1.3 astronomical units of the Sun and within 0.3 astronomical units of Earth's orbit, which equates to roughly 28 million miles.

Close calls are relatively common. Astrogeologists estimate that at least 60 asteroids over 5 km wide have struck the Earth in its 600-million-year history based on crater formation rates on the moon. Asteroids entering the atmosphere ending in airbursts are even more common. You might remember the 2013 Chelyabinsk Event, when a 20-meter rock entered the atmosphere and exploded over Chelyabinsk, Russia.

Some think it's only a matter of time before a larger asteroid impacts. If (or when) this happens, it could cause widespread destruction, especially if it hits a major city. NASA's Planetary Defense Coordination Office, responsible for monitoring potentially hazardous asteroids, has discovered 35,024 near-Earth asteroids.

If those numbers scare you, take comfort in NASA's DART (Double Asteroid Redirection Test), which deliberately smashed into a 560-foot-wide asteroid on Sept. 26, 2022. It was the agency's first attempt to move an asteroid in space. The test targeted the asteroid moonlet Dimorphos, which orbits a larger, 2,560-foot asteroid called Didymos. Neither asteroid poses a threat to Earth.

The mission confirmed NASA can successfully navigate a spacecraft to collide with an asteroid and deflect it, a technique known as kinetic impact. DART could identify and distinguish between the two asteroids, targeting the smaller body. The 1,260-pound box-shaped spacecraft crashed into Dimorphos at roughly 14,000 miles per hour to slightly slow the asteroid's orbital speed.

"This demonstrates we are no longer powerless to prevent this type of natural disaster," said NASA's Planetary Defense Officer Lindley Johnson. "A DART successor could provide what we need to save the day."
Facepalm: While Microsoft focuses on fixing its weak security practices, critical bugs in its many services and products keep popping up. A researcher discovered a dangerous flaw in Outlook months ago, but Microsoft waited until now to respond and attempt to fix it.

SolidLab security researcher Vsevolod Kokorin discovered a vulnerability that allowed him to impersonate any Outlook account, sending potentially malicious emails from apparently legitimate users. Kokorin demonstrated the critical bug by spoofing Microsoft's security team, but Redmond's response wasn't exactly what he expected.

SolidLab discovered the flaw months ago and alerted Microsoft immediately. The company said it couldn't reproduce the issue, so Kokorin sent a video showing his successful exploitation with a "full" proof-of-concept (PoC).

The impersonation PoC exploit only works when sending mails to an Outlook account, which is still one of the most popular email services with 400 million users worldwide. Microsoft could not reproduce the bug, so the company closed the issue.

Kokorin vented his frustration by ranting on X and privately sharing the technical details of the bug with TechCrunch. He did not expect a mob to form that was angry at him. Many "misunderstood" his intentions and accused him of leveraging public attention for monetary gain. Kokorin said all he wanted was to force giant corporations like Microsoft to stop ignoring researchers and be less dismissive when alerted to potentially damaging bugs in their software.

"I did not expect my post to get such a reaction. Honestly, I just wanted to share my frustration because this situation made me sad," Kokorin told TechCrunch. "Many people misunderstood me and think that I want money or something like that. In reality, I just want companies not to ignore researchers and to be more friendly when you try to help them."

Surprisingly, the faux-X-rage about the Outlook bug did what Kokorin had hoped. Microsoft reopened the issue. Redmond likely noticed Kokorin's post and revisited the reports he submitted. The Outlook email bug is still open at the time of writing.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently expressed dissatisfaction regarding the company's practices in dealing with security bugs. Nadella sent an internal memo explaining that Microsoft should now prioritize security above everything else in a company-wide push involving all teams and projects. The US Cyber Safety Review Board also labeled Microsoft's practices as "inadequate" after investigating major security incidents involving Windows and other products.
Advancements in technology have opened up the possibilities for people to learn more about their family history and map their lineage. Using a DNA test kit can reveal your ethnic roots and lost family members. Personal DNA testing involves collecting a DNA sample (usually through a saliva swab) and mailing the sample to the service provider for lab analysis. These services reveal the results online via the web or genealogy software, which allows users to access tools for building family trees, historical records, migration maps, and more.

This article outlines five of the DNA test kit services in 2024 for exploring family history and learning about their ancestral composition. Each offers a different set of features to deepen your understanding of your roots. Read further and find out which among them can deliver the information you need.

#1 MyHeritage DNA

Overview

MyHeritage DNA offers detailed insights which expand and deepen the user's understanding of their heritage. It reveals origins across 2114 geographic regions and an ethnicity breakdown among 42 ethnicities. The DNA test kit helps users find new family members from all over the world through an easy-to-use cheek swab.

MyHeritage only takes 3-4 weeks to process the DNA sample and make the result accessible online. The company upholds the highest technological standards and offers the most affordable price ($39 + shipping) for DNA testing services with free access to its family tree builder app and other tools for 30 days.

With a globally diverse user base, MyHeritage DNA has helped countless people uncover their ethnic and geographic origins since 2016. Thanks to its wide internal reach and availability in 42 languages, the DNA test kit offers a greater chance of being matched with relatives residing in other countries.

For the protection of user privacy, the company uses multiple layers of encryption when processing and storing DNA tests. It has a CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited lab, ensuring all test results are stored and processed securely and professionally. Together with a robust privacy policy, MyHeritage upholds the security of personal information against its loss, misuse, unauthorized access, etc. Only the user gets to how the information from the DNA test results is used and shared.

Through the 30-day free trial, MyHeritage gives users access to a comprehensive set of tools for tracing roots and learning about one's family history. The company boasts billions of historical records and millions of family tree profiles with an easy-to-use, premium DNA test kit for finding new family members and discovering ethnic roots. It provides the most popular family history service and DNA test in Europe. It leverages sophisticated matching technologies to help users uncover records and documents of their ancestors and reunite with lost loved ones or distant relatives.

MyHeritage gives users the joy of discovering their past across multiple devices (desktop, mobile, and tablet). It offers a standard yet intuitive interface, ensuring a seamless experience when developing a family tree, accessing historical records, or creating a video biography.

This genealogy software also leverages the most advanced AI technologies so users can animate, repair, enhance, and colorize historical photos. It can also find records based on user input, thus making genealogy search faster and more convenient.

Features

Easy-to-Use DNA Kit

MyHeritage offers an easy-to-use and affordable cheek swab DNA kit for uncovering ethnic origins and finding new relatives. The test only takes 2 minutes to complete, and the company releases the results online in 3-4 weeks.

MyHeritage DNA utilizes microarray-based autosomal DNA testing, which helps technicians calculate the DNA matches and analyze ethnicity from all ancestral lines. This pinpoints the ethnic and geographic origins of a user's ancestors across 2100+ regions and 42 top-level ethnicities.

Once converted to digital form, MyHeritage compares the DNA data to its database to determine the DNA percentage the user shares with other matches. MyHeritage DNA identifies the shared genetic sequences that prove the familial relationship between two or more users.

Detailed Ethnicity Results

The DNA test shows a percentage breakdown of the user's ancestral origins from 42 ethnicities. MyHeritage DNA also reveals the specific groups a person descends from and the places their ancestors came from across 2,114 geographic regions, further enriching their understanding of their ancestral origins.

DNA Analysis Tools

MyHeritage offers the most comprehensive set of genetic genealogy tools on the market. For example, shared DNA matches provides a list of common traits between the user and the matches which may give them clues how their lineage intersects and AutoClusters organizes the DNA matches into groups of individuals who match each other, which signifies they have a common ancestor. These tools can help users determine how they are related to their DNA matches.

Huge International Records Database

MyHeritage boasts a huge database of 20.3 billion international historical records, like census records, birth/marriage/death certificates, and even school-related records from Europe, the US, and other regions. These records can help users learn more about their ancestors and their experiences, which were documented by the media, schools, government agencies, and other sources.

Robust Privacy Policy

MyHeritage DNA conducts its DNA test at its CLIA-certified, CAP-accredited lab, industry gold standards that prove the company stores and processes data securely. It boasts a robust privacy policy that details its respect for the privacy of its users and their data, including an explicit commitment to never sell or license data to third parties.

#2 23andMe

Overview

23andMe provides a comprehensive ancestry breakdown through its Ancestry Service, which lets users understand their genetic composition and family history. The company generates personalized reports backed by well-established scientific and medical research. It processes DNA samples at CLIA-certified and CAP-credited labs where scientists and medical experts focus on the variations known to be associated with ancestry composition so users have insights into the impacts genetics has on their lives.

23andMe also leverages a powerful, well-tested system to provide users with ancestry estimates as low as 0.1%. It takes the company 3-4 weeks on average to prepare the reports, which are accessible exclusively online along with features like DNA Relative Finder and family tree builder app.

23andMe has sold over 12 million DNA test kits worldwide. The company gives its customers full control over how their personal information is used and shared. It also has exceeded industry data protection standards and achieved three different ISO certifications, which proves the strength of its security to uphold user privacy.

Features

Ancestry Composition

23andMe shows the DNA percentage of the user that comes from each of the 47 populations through its ancestry composition report. The company calculates this percentage by comparing the user's genome to 14000+ people with known ancestry.

Scientists test and validate each step to estimate the ancestry percentage to reveal the ancestral roots from across 3000+ regions. It breaks down the genetic composition in numbers and lists the ethnic groups the user shares an ancestral line with as well as the country they originate.

Ancestry Detail Report

The ancestry service also offers a granular view of the ancestry background, including curated content that covers history, food, and travel destinations connected to one's DNA ancestry. The ancestry detail report gives users a chance to expand their knowledge about origins across specific populations.

DNA Relative Finder

The ancestry service can also show the matches/relatives users can connect with when subscribed to its DNA Relatives. This allows them to compare ancestries and traits and even send messages to relatives whose DNA test kits have been registered and processed by 23andMe.

Ancestral History Tools

23andMe also contains tools for tracing ancestry history so users can gain a clearer picture of their origins, where their ancestors lived, and when they lived in those locations. These tools can show when their most recent ancestors lived for each population and reveal the origins of the maternal and paternal-line ancestors and the places they moved to in the past. The information the service provides deepens their understanding of family history, such as the physical conditions their ancestors lived in and the periods they were alive.

#3 Family Finder by Family Tree DNA

Overview

Made by Family Tree DNA, Family Finder is an autosomal DNA test for discovering ethnic origins, both from maternal and paternal lines. This service can find familial connections, new or distant, in its massive DNA database on all ancestral lines within the last five generations. It provides a detailed breakdown by ethnicity and geography, connecting users to their regional origins across 90+ population clusters.

Family Finder uses regional percentages, not nationality nor specific countries, for mapping ancestral origins, as DNA mutates regionally rather than across man-made borders. It can also map migration routes and show the amount of autosomal DNA users still carry from ancient Western civilizations.

Features

myOrigins

Family Finder provides a detailed ethnic and geographic breakdown indicating where ancestors come from through its visual mapping tool called myOrigins. The service displays a heat map that shows the personal genetic ancestry as well as the related population clusters that have mixed with others generations ago. This tool helps users confirm their family history and traditions according to ethnicity estimations.

Chromosome Painting

This DNA test kit service also uses color to represent the populations in myOrigins results. Chromosome painting reveals where each DNA segment comes from based on continental regions and superpopulations. It breaks down the origins of the user across their 22 autosomal chromosome pairs.

Family Matching

Family Finder also lets users view and compare DNA segments they share with up to 10 of their matches. It provides matching tools for discovering new relations and comparing DNA matches by parental and maternal lines.

ancientOrigins

Family Finder also contains a tool for mapping the migration routes of ancient ancestors. It can show the amount of autosomal DNA the users carry from their forefathers who belonged to ancient European civilizations. The service explains in detail where the direct paternal haplogroup can be found, where ancestors branched off, etc. ancientOrigins lets users explore their deep ancestry by comparing their DNA to the DNA from archaeological dig sites located on the European continent.

#4 AncestryDNA

Overview

AncestryDNA connects people to places where their family history began. It can offer detailed insights into their family's origins, including geographical regions. It also gives access to 40 billion records and photographs which gives a closer look into the life of one's ancestors. The DNA testing services leverages some of the latest autosomal testing technology, its patented Genetic Communities technology, and the large consumer DNA database for helping users find new family connections thanks to its dynamic list of DNA matches.

Features

Ancestry Hints

Once the details are included in the family tree builder app, ancestry hints appear to indicate a match related to the user. Ancestry does the work of searching by recommending documents, photographs, and other family trees for the user to review. It can also suggest ancestors who are potentially part of the family.

DNA Matches

AncestryDNA helps users discover their origins and ethnicity with DNA matches. The genealogy software provides innovative tools like color coding and custom labeling so users can see their connections clearly at a glance. It can pinpoint the specific regions where the user's ancestors originate and give insight into how and why they moved from place to place. It also shows which side of the family the ethnicities and DNA matches come from.

Traits

AncestryDNA can show genes may influence the nutrition, fitness, and appearance of users. It gives access to 40+ traits which only deepens their understanding of genetic make-up.

Access to Newspapers.com

AncestryDNA integrates with Newspaper.com Publisher Extra to give users access to thousands of resources on local and global events, including photos. This integration can help expand the research of professional genealogists and enrich a user's understanding of their family history.

#5 Living DNA

Overview

Living DNA delivers an enriching view of ancestry through advanced DNA reports. It provides results that span over 150 regions. The DNA test kit can also look further into one's ancestry through sub-regional breakdowns: African, British, and European ancestries. The service also offers a wellbeing kit, which discloses the best type of exercises and equipment that support the genetic makeup, and a Neanderthal kit, which shows the physical characteristics influenced by genetics are derived from Archaic Human DNA.

Features

Family DNA Matching

Living DNA contains a matching tool for discovering extended families. The service shows the genetic matches users have when they are part of the Family Networks, a space to connect with global users and see how much DNA they share.

Sub-regional Breakdown

Within particular regions, Living DNA can display sub-regional breakdowns to pinpoint the specific locations of ancestral origins. The DNA test kit service can provide all the historical information in each region so users can better understand their ancestors' migration patterns. It covers geography and culture so they can learn more about the influences and conditions that shaped their forefathers.

Maternal and Paternal Results

Living DNA can also trace the movement of each haplogroup so users can see where their ancestors' descendants reside now, coming from Africa. It can go back tens of thousands of years to show where the maternal and paternal DNA is commonly found.

Conclusion

Discover more about your roots by investing in the best DNA test kit service. Learning about your family history takes time and effort, but the best programs simplify the process by providing access to billions of historical records and tools for discovering new DNA matches across the globe.

Choose from MyHeritage DNA, 23andMe, Family Family Finder, AncestryDNA, and Living DNA so you can deep dive into your lineage and heritage. These tools help you cultivate a more genuine appreciation of genealogy and a holistic understanding of yourself according to geographic origins and ethnicities.
Verizon has turned to generative AI to handle and retain 100,000 customers in 2024 to enhance customer service and reduce the number of accounts that cancel or choose not to renew their subscriptions.

This move, announced by CEO Hans Vestberg, leverages advanced AI to predict customer needs, streamline interactions, and optimize service delivery across various touchpoints (via Reuters).

How Verizon Uses AI to Streamline Customer Support

Verizon, a leading US telecom company, handles 170 million customer calls each year. By integrating generative AI, Verizon can now predict the reason for a customer's call with 80% accuracy.

This enables the company to connect customers to the most suitable agents from its 60,000-strong call center team. As CEO Hans Vestberg explains, "I have 60,000 call agents, and I know what they are really good at, so I can match your call with the right agent."

This AI-driven approach not only improves call handling but also personalizes in-store experiences. Verizon's stores, which receive around 70 million visits annually, leverage AI to tailor offers and reduce visit times by roughly seven minutes.

This personalization is achieved by analyzing 1,500 data points associated with each phone number while ensuring data privacy is maintained as all processing occurs within Verizon's secure network.

Verizon's AI Tools

Verizon's commitment to generative AI is evident in the introduction of several new tools designed to enhance the customer experience.

These include a personal research assistant for employees to quickly access relevant information, a "Fast Pass" system to efficiently connect customers with the most suitable representative, and an AI-powered personal shopper that offers personalized recommendations and simplifies transactions. These tools have collectively resulted in increased customer satisfaction and engagement across various channels.

The deployment of generative AI is expected to significantly impact Verizon's business metrics. In 2023, the company reported about 145 million wireless retail connections, with a churn rate of around 1%.

With the new AI tools, Verizon anticipates a reduction in this churn rate. As Vestberg notes, "We believe this year we can have less churn ... it's an experience for you, for my employee, and ultimately I'll make some more money."

Regarding data safety, Vestberg assures that the company does not expose data to anyone else and that they run all of their data and large language models within their secure network

AI Streamlining Major Industries

In a similar vein, Abu Dhabi's International Holding Co (IHC), the largest operating asset holding company, appointed Aiden Insight, a virtual AI entity, as a board observer earlier this year to help manage the UAE's largest listed firm.

Meanwhile, British low-cost airline EasyJet has begun utilizing AI to optimize its operations, particularly through a generative AI tool called Jetstream. This tool assists in managing flight schedules, and crew allocation, and enhancing customer experience, resulting in improvements in operational efficiency and service quality.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.
The 2024 Paris Olympics is inching closer and closer, and many are taking advantage of the largest sporting event in the world by launching fake websites claiming to sell tickets. However, the perpetrators of these scams are taking advantage of the intense anticipation and hype surrounding the upcoming international multi-sport competition.

For over 120 years, the modern Olympics have been a spectacle, and the excitement is massive, with many hoping to catch the action physically.

Fake 2024 Paris Olympics Websites Sell Scam Tickets

A blog post from cybersecurity researchers from Proofpoint reported the growing numbers of fake 2024 Paris Olympics ticket websites on the internet, particularly as the event draws near. Various bad actors and scammers are now taking advantage of the dwindling number of tickets and seats for the upcoming international games, especially for those rushing to get one.

The report highlights one website, "paris24tickets.com," which promises to deliver tickets but does not guarantee the pass and only takes money.

Moreover, researchers believe that these websites are not all about money; they may also steal one's personal and sensitive data.

Do Not Get Fooled: How to Spot Fraudulent Tickets

It was also reported that this website appeared as the second sponsored site on Google, taking advantage of the company's paid marketing feature. While these websites appear legitimate, it is important to note that buying from the source is the best way to secure one's ticket needs.

The official website of the 2024 Paris Olympics still sells several tickets but is quickly running out.

2024 Paris Olympics and Its Security Measures

The French government has seen an increase in hacks and intense cyberattacks over the past few months as the world counts down until the globally anticipated sporting showcase in Paris, the chosen city for the 2024 Olympics. Officials reported that many are launching attacks against the country and city ahead of the event, but they said that the situation is under control.

As part of its improvement and heightening of security measures, the country's lawmakers also voted on the controversial bill to legalize AI-powered surveillance in the state. The reason behind this was the 2024 Paris Olympics event that would be held in late July and early August, despite many who criticized and went against it.

The country's cybersecurity heads and agencies are all warning against the upcoming attacks against it, the event, and many more as the international games draw thousands of international attendees. However, it is not only an attack on Paris that is imminent but also the audience that would want to witness the event, particularly with the rise of fake ticket websites now.
Apple's Macbook Pro models with the artificial intelligence-centered M4 Chip could reportedly be on the horizon with an end-of-year release date of 2024, according to display analyst Ross Young.

According to display expert Young, the next MacBook Pro models, which will come out towards the end of the year, should start receiving panel shipments in the third quarter of 2024.

It is anticipated that the entry-level 14-inch MacBook Pro will come with an M4 chip and that the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips will be updated for the 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro versions. M4 and M4 Pro CPUs are coming to the Mac mini.

M4 chips will not be added to the MacBook Air, Mac Studio, or Mac Pro models until 2025, and it is reportedly unclear when the iMac will receive an upgrade that includes the latest chip technology.

With the M3 line, Apple introduced 3-nanometer technology, the foundation for the enhanced 3-nanometer node in the M4 processor. The M4 chip outperforms the M3 chip in multi-core performance in the Geekbench 6 evaluations by up to 25%. Therefore, the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips may experience comparable benefits.

Read Also: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Specs Leak: Full List of Alleged Specs, What's New, and More

Apple Mac Sales

Apple is developing the new Macs at a critical juncture. After reaching a record in 2022, Mac sales reportedly fell 27% in the most current fiscal year, which ended in September.

Over the holidays, the PC line's revenue remained stagnant. Apple attempted to revive the Mac business in October of last year with a launch event focused on the M3, but those chips did not much exceed the M2 from the year before.

The M4 chip family includes an entry-level Donan model, more powerful Brava versions, and a top-tier Hidra processor.

Slimmer, Lighter Apple Products

The new M4 Macbook Pro update coincides with Cupertino's impending production of a smaller body for the iPhone, MacBook Pro, and Apple Watch, as Bloomberg's Mark Gurman disclosed in his most recent PowerOn newsletter. This will be its new course once Apple has strayed a little from its original design path. It has recently focused on larger updates to support enhanced features and functionalities for every gadget.

The Apple Watch Ultra model was one of them. Like the iPhone, which featured larger batteries and cameras, the most recent MacBook Pros were likewise thickened for increased battery capacity, additional ports, and other reasons.

That will, however, alter with the next Apple launches as the company returns to its original priority of making its products lighter and thinner.

This was already feasible when the M4 iPad Pro was released in May of last year. Apple is currently attempting to integrate its notable resizing with its other technologies. There could also be a thinner iPhone 17 model that comes as a new size standard for the MacBook Pro and Apple Watch.

Related Article: Apple Vision Pro Pre-Orders to Open on June 14: Is There Demo Availability?
The state of Massachusetts has reportedly announced that residents can now again use 911 services. The cause of the outage, which led to many residents phoning their local emergency services right away before the services were restored, is being looked into.

Around 3:45 p.m., the Massachusetts State Police announced that emergency help requests may be made once the system has been restored. It is unclear how many locations were impacted by the outage.

It further stated that the State 911 Department is investigating what caused the disturbance. The agency reported the first outage at 2:17 p.m.

Residents' phones received a public safety alert message shortly after 2:30 p.m. informing them that there may be delays in public safety response and that all 911 services are unavailable statewide.

Before Tuesday, Boston Police Chief and Police Commissioner Michael Cox announced that citizens wishing to get in touch with law enforcement during the outage of the 911 system might do so by contacting their local police departments or by using the red call box located on street corners to notify emergency medical services.

In an earlier statement, the State 911 Department acknowledged that the 911 system was inoperable and advised citizens to contact their local police directly and restrict their calls to emergencies.

Read Also : Google can Now Text 911 Responders for You With Newly Unveiled Feature

Previous 911 Outages

911 Outages prove to be a recurring instance. Back on April 18, millions of Americans in parts of Nebraska, Texas, Nevada, and all of South Dakota reported losing access to the vital emergency services hotline for approximately two hours.

The outage impacted different areas for different reasons. The City of Del Rio Police Department in Texas blamed the problem on a "major cellular carrier outage," citing T-Mobile.

The department's supervisor of communications, Juan Hernandez, made it clear that T-Mobile's coverage was the issue rather than a malfunction with the internal 911 system.

Similarly, the Chase County Sheriff's Office in Nebraska revealed that landlines continued functioning when 911 services were down for the whole state, except for T-Mobile customers. According to international communications services firm Lumen, a fiber cut caused the outage in Douglas County, Nebraska.

Experts on 911 Outages

Although AT&T confirmed that its network is operating normally, it recognized that a problem with another carrier's network could be disrupting 911 calls.

The Multistate outage prompted experts to call for a revamp in the emergency hotline's systems. The disruption highlights that the nation's 9-1-1 systems are crucial telecommunications services that need immediate improvements, according to Brian Fontes, CEO of NENA, The 9-1-1 Association, a non-profit that concentrates on 911 operations and regulatory issues.
NASA's recent update announced a delay to Boeing's Starliner's much-awaited return to the planet after it has already spent two weeks docked at the International Space Station. The delay adds four more days to its stay.

The spacecraft is currently docked to the ISS, and more studies are being conducted by NASA and Boeing's team as of the moment.

The Starliner's reviews are still ongoing to assess its return to the planet, but so far, its findings are promising for its upcoming venture.

NASA: Boeing Starliner's Return Delayed for 4 More Days

NASA released a new update for Boeing's Starliner spacecraft that remains docked to the ISS, two weeks and counting, saying that it will see four more days of delay for its supposed return to the planet. It is now targeting a June 25 undocking procedure that would begin by 10:10 AM EDT, slated for Tuesday next week, and is expected to land by June 26 at 4:51 AM EDT in New Mexico.

The NASA astronauts who joined its test flight will also join the Starliner in their splashdown to the planet, with Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams boarding back to the Starliner.

It was revealed that the mission team for Boeing's Starliner is still investigating the spacecraft's different aspects, studying it, and fetching more data.

Read Also: FAA Investigates Boeing and Airbus Over Suspected Fake Titanium Documents

Reviews Still Ongoing for Boeing's Starliner

With the extended study and ongoing review behind the Boeing Starliner, it must await its undocking venture and re-entry to the planet.

In the two weeks since Starliner's arrival, the initial problems, including the helium leak found during its operations and the recent testing, saw lower rates when it was last turned on. Starliner's four out of five thrusters also ran normally.

Boeing Starliner's Venture

For many years, Boeing's Starliner was plagued with significant delays that hindered its operations, fulfilling its contract with NASA under the Commercial Crew program. Several issues appeared for Boeing's Starliner over the years, including issues like oxygen relief valves found to have faults, several leaks, and other problems.

For June alone, Boeing saw another early delay in the spacecraft's supposed mission to bring two astronauts to the International Space Station several days before its supposed flight. However, NASA gave Boeing two launch windows this month for the mission to continue and head for the ISS, one that will help take the Starliner to the next level for its future operations.

Fortunately, NASA and Boeing could launch the Starliner on June 6, but it was far from perfect, as it saw several mishaps along the way, including helium leaks. After spending a long stay docked to the ISS, it would add another week to its delayed undocking and return to the planet, extended yet again for four more days, with reviews now looking into the Starliner for its clearance.
Canada-based telecom Telus Corp. has reportedly pledged not to use artificial intelligence in Indigenous art in response to cultural misappropriation complaints by several communities.

The telecom behemoth, which offers internet, mobile, and cable TV services, is a prime example of how companies attempt to preserve public confidence while taking advantage of artificial intelligence's efficiency. Fintech, media, and technology companies can purchase AI and content-moderation services from the company's overseas section.

According to local news sites, AI-generated content that imitates Indigenous art has caused controversy in Australia. Some artists have complained that their work is being used without their consent to create pieces that are being sold online, and others have withdrawn from a portrait prize competition due to AI concerns.

The Canadian minister of foreign affairs issued an apology in December for releasing an image of an Indigenous lady created by artificial intelligence.

Telus uses generative AI for customer service and has used picture classification to build a recommendation engine. Employees have also generated photos with credit for usage, such as corporate slide displays, using third-party tools like OpenAI's Dall-E.

However, Telus officials clarified that they cannot guarantee that outside AI models haven't been trained on Indigenous art. Therefore, the company's guarantee is restricted to its control over picture development.

AI Indistinguishable from Human Art

Telus' pledge comes as AI art continues to be a topic of concern in the art community worldwide. A study from last year even revealed that AI art is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from human-made art.

The study's main focus was the ability of participants to discriminate between images produced by AI and human artists. It was headed by distinguished research professor Dr. Scott Highhouse and doctorate candidate in industrial and organizational psychology Andrew Samo.

Despite breakthroughs in AI art, participants were unable to reliably discern between the two, typically correctly identifying only slightly more than half of the time.

Samo and Highhouse did not inform participants that AI would create art to avoid bias in their study design. Instead, participants were not informed about the AI's involvement until they were instructed to view photos and evaluate them using aesthetic judgment standards.

According to the findings, participants' confidence in their guesses was notably low. On average, they identified the source of the artwork correctly between 50 and 60 percent of the time. Notwithstanding the difficulty of difference, participants continuously indicated a stronger favorable emotional response to human-made art.

Real-Life Photographs vs. AI Art

People also continue to try to prove that AI art is an inferior form of art. Recently, a photographer used a real-life photograph to win first place in a prominent AI-generated photo contest. Shortly after it was discovered to be authentic, the photo was disqualified.

Photographer Miles Astray placed his actual image in the AI category of the 1839 Awards, a prestigious competition recognized for emphasizing innovation and cutting-edge technology in photography.

The jury first commended Astray's picture for its originality and striking composition. But when the organizers realized the image was not AI-generated, they felt compelled to transfer the honors to other artists who met the category's qualifications.

Astray entered a real shot in an AI competition to draw attention to the moral ramifications of artificial intelligence in photography. His goal was to show that scenes created by artificial intelligence may be just as imaginative as those created in real life.
A new study has reportedly discovered a worrying security Microsoft bug that can make anyone seem like an employee from the tech giant when sending an email to Outlook accounts, allowing for easier phishing scams.

Vsevolod Kokorin, also known online as Slonser, claimed to have discovered the email-spoofing flaw last week and reported it to Microsoft. However, the latter rejected his report, stating it could not replicate his results.

Kokorin posted his findings on X (previously Twitter). As a result, Kokorin decided to disclose the problem on X to the public without offering any technical information that could aid in its exploitation. The bug has not yet been fixed as of this writing.

Kokorin claims that the bug is limited to sending emails to Outlook accounts. Still, based on Microsoft's most recent financial report, it represents a global user base of at least 400 million people. According to Kokorin, he last communicated with Microsoft on June 15.

It is said that no one except Kokorin has discovered the flaw's existence or malicious exploitation.

Read Also : Microsoft Gives OpenAI its Best AI for Development, Claims Okta CEO

Microsoft Against Hackers

The newly discovered bug comes as a new cybersecurity report found that Microsoft Office software continues to be vulnerable to hacking attempts.

According to the Software Vulnerability Ratings Report 2024, Microsoft Office has the most total number of vulnerabilities of any office product. RCEs account for 40-50% of the almost 80% of vulnerabilities categorized as critical each year. Additionally, 5% more people were exploiting it in 2023.

Compared to other software, office apps are easier for hackers to compromise because they are user-facing and prone to human error. Common user behaviors, including clicking embedded links, activating macros, and opening documents, might be the subject of phishing attempts.

An attack of this type has the best chance of success since Microsoft Office is so prevalent, relied on, and recognized by users. The authors predict a rise in phishing attacks that target issues in Microsoft Office.

Of all the major web browsers, Microsoft Edge has the most RCE vulnerabilities over the last three years -14 total. The number rose by 500% between 2021 and 2022 and 17% between 2022 and 2023. Although RCEs accounted for just 1% of Firefox and Chrome vulnerabilities, 10% of all vulnerabilities were made public.

Microsoft Hacking Incidents

Following China's 2023 theft of a portion of Microsoft's computers containing emails from the US federal government, Microsoft President Brad Smith testified in a House committee last week. Following several security blunders, Smith promised throughout the hearing that the company would once again prioritize cybersecurity.

According to CISA, a recent Microsoft data breach involving Russian hackers may have exposed confidential government information that poses a threat to US federal organizations.

Microsoft, a Redmond, Washington-based firm, is mostly responsible for the cybersecurity of federal employees' work since the entire US government uses its Windows operating system, Outlook email, and other apps. As a result, a breach involving the tech giant can potentially involve the government.
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has released its first new image following its recent switch to an alternative operational mode utilizing a single gyro.

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope Is Back On Track!

The spacecraft resumed scientific activities on June 14 after several weeks of downtime due to a malfunction in one of its gyroscopes, which was critical for maintaining its orientation and stability.

The newly captured image showcases NGC 1546, a neighboring galaxy in the Dorado constellation. The galaxy's positioning provides a unique perspective, highlighting dust lanes backlit by its core.

According to NASA, these dust lanes absorb light, casting a rusty-brown hue, while the core emits a yellowish glow from older stars. Areas of vibrant blue indicate active star formation, peeking through the dust. Additionally, several distant galaxies are visible, including a spiral galaxy alongside NGC 1546.

Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3 captured this image as part of a collaborative observational program involving NASA's James Webb Space Telescope and the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array. This cooperative effort aims to provide a comprehensive, multiwavelength exploration of stellar formation and evolution.

This image marks one of the initial observations made by Hubble under its new pointing mode, which enhances its operational consistency for scientific endeavors. NASA anticipates that this updated mode will enable Hubble to conduct most of its scientific observations effectively.

Dr. Jennifer Wiseman, senior project scientist for Hubble at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, expressed confidence in the telescope's revamped capabilities. She emphasized that Hubble is now well-positioned to embark on numerous astronomical discoveries, ranging from our solar system to exoplanets and distant galaxies.

"We're poised now for many years of discovery ahead, and we'll be looking at everything from our solar system to exoplanets to distant galaxies. Hubble plays a powerful role in NASA's astronomical toolkit," Wiseman said in a statement.

Read Also : NASA Says Hubble Space Telescope Can Still Explore Secrets of the Universe Despite Gyro Failure

A Blast From the Past

In related news, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope recently captured the enigmatic HM Sagittae (HM Sge) binary star system, shedding light on an explosive event that transpired four decades ago.

HM Sge underwent a remarkable outburst in 1975, transforming from a nondescript star into a luminous nova that typically fades over time. However, contrary to expectations, HM Sge has maintained its heightened brightness over a long period, necessitating further assessments from astronomers.

During its initial eruption phase, which spanned from April to September 1975, HM Sge demonstrated a remarkable 250-fold increase in brightness. Unlike typical novae, which usually fade rapidly after the eruption, HM Sge has maintained its luminous state, captivating astronomers with its enduring luminosity.

Latest observations have indicated a subtle dimming of HM Sge accompanied by an increase in temperature within the system. HM Sge belongs to the category of symbiotic stars, where a white dwarf and a companion giant star engage in an eccentric orbital pattern.

Learn more about this blast from the past here.




An extraordinary glow in a galaxy far away has caught the attention of astronomers.

Galaxy SDSS1335+0728, 300 million light-years away from Earth, had an extraordinary occurrence in December 2019 when its center became very luminous. The phenomenon is best explained as a huge black hole swallowing its surroundings according to experts.

As of February 2019, SDSS1335+0728 emits optical, infrared, ultraviolet, and even X-ray radiation, unlike exploding stars, which can momentarily brighten a galaxy according to a report from Science Alert. According to astronomer Lorena Hernandez Garcia of the Millennium Institute of Astrophysics (MAS) and the University of Valparaiso in Chile, this may be the first real-time sighting of a big black hole.

Possible Explanations

She explained that unless they have stuff to eat, black holes are silent-- just like in the case of The Milky Way's supermassive black hole.

Scientists believe that an "active galactic nucleus" could potentially explain the abrupt brightening of a distant galaxy. This happens when a massive black hole in the galaxy's center starts eating material, according to The Guardian.

As gas around the black hole flares, active galactic nuclei release a wide range of light. Dust particles absorb and reradiate wavelengths, resulting in brightness.

This is not the only possible explanation. The researchers have not ruled out an unusual "tidal disruption event," which involves a star being torn apart after getting too close to a black hole.

Tidal disruptions seldom brighten a galaxy for more than a few hundred days. More data is needed to rule out this mechanism. With the data available now, experts say it is "impossible" to unravel which of the scenarios is factual, thus there is a need to "keep monitoring the source."

Astronomers will continue to study SDSS1335+0728 to comprehend better this unusual occurrence and its effects on our knowledge of the universe.

Scientists Trying to Answer the One Mystery of The Universe

For 50 years, scientists have struggled with the universe's lack of observable stuff. NASA claims that stars, planets, cosmic dust, and everything in between cannot explain the universe's behavior. Researchers think their observations need five times more matter. Dark matter is invisible because it does not interact with light.

A recent report from CNN highlighted astronomers' attempt to explain dark matter. US astronomers, Vera Rubin and W. Kent Ford studied stars near the borders of spiral galaxies in the 1970s to prove the dark matter. They found that these stars were traveling too rapidly for the galaxy's apparent matter and gravity to hold them, indicating that a lot of invisible mass binds the galaxy.

Rubin famously observed, "What you see in a spiral galaxy is not what you get." Her research began a protracted quest for dark matter based on Fritz Zwicky's 1930s concept.

Despite decades of research and advanced detection gear, scientists have not directly observed dark matter. Early in this research, Stephen Hawking proposed that black holes from the Big Bang era could conceal dark matter.

MIT researchers have examined Hawking's idea, which may explain the composition of primordial black holes and uncover a new, unusual black hole, per the report. Research co-author David Kaiser said they utilized the famous black hole calculations of Stephen Hawking to try to explain dark matter resulting in "unusual black holes."

Scientists have proposed strange particles and other dimensions for dark matter. Hawking's black hole theory is just now being seriously considered. MIT graduate student Elba Alonso-Monsalve, a study co-author said people thought black holes were "just a mathematical fun fact" during the early 20th century.

Nearly every galaxy has a black hole at its heart, and gravitational waves from colliding black holes according to a 2015 finding. However, researchers have not detected the dark matter particles, despite searching all the usual sites. According to Alonso-Monsalve, this does not imply that dark matter is not a particle or black hole-- It might be both.
Elon Musk estimates the likelihood of a disaster linked to artificial intelligence (AI) at "10 to 20%" and campaigned for freedom of expression during a film festival event.

The tech mogul said at Cannes Lions on Wednesday that he tends to conform with AI godfather Geoff Hinton, who believes there is "10-20% probability of something terrible happening," according to Deadline. Though, Elon Musk explained that he was optimistic that AI may create a society of abundance where products and services are universally available, making employment optional.

Musk spoke with WPP CEO Mark Read on how AI impacts creativity, business, and society. Despite brand safety disputes with sponsors, he maintained free expression.

Elon Musk addressed his infamous November 2018 statement that "advertisers can go f*** themselves." He said his comment was not about marketers but stressed the significance of free expression. He said, "If it's a choice between censorship and money and free speech and losing money, we'll pick the second."

The owner of X condemned censorship but respected marketers' freedom to pick where their information appeared. Elon Musk noted that democracy is founded on free speech, hence X "must be a legal free speech platform" for it to be the world's "public square." Musk also acknowledged regretting certain statements he made, per the report.

Elon Musk emphasized that the X platform can reach the world's most significant intellectuals and leaders, and with the U.S. presidential election approaching, Musk said, "It's going to be interesting."

Elon Musk Trying to Win Advertisers

Despite management worries, Elon Musk is trying to win back X sponsors. According to The Financial Times, he is at Cannes to reassure advertisers and large companies about the social media platform's viability.

A person familiar with X's strategy claimed the firm is recovering from scandals, including loosened moderation norms, that drove large brands away.

Advertising experts said businesses are frightened of Musk's erratic behavior and right-wing conspiratorial ideas on the site. An agency executive remarked that advertisers "still have concerns" about the platform formerly known as Twitter, thus Elon Musk must convince them "why they should return."

The source added that the tech billionaire is facing a challenge greater than other platforms amid concerns that advertising on X seems like endorsing Elon Musk, who is a controversial figure.

Read Also : Meta Launches Threads API for Developers

Advertising executives said X is not on their "preferred" list for brand clients. While not a restriction, it suggests that businesses should not utilize X for marketing. Another executive reportedly expressed significant concern about the current state of the company.

Tesla to Offer Stock Option to Top-Performing Employees

In a separate update, Tesla will give top performers additional stock options after shareholders approve Elon Musk's huge incentive plan.

Elon Musk recently announced that Tesla will give top performers additional stock options, as reported by TechTimes. This follows shareholders' ratification of the Tesla CEO's record pay.

A Delaware judge revoked Musk's bonus package for deceiving shareholders. Bloomberg reported that Tesla stopped employee stock pay a few weeks before the judge's ruling, adding to the complication.

Tesla employees have no stockholders fighting for their stock options, unlike Musk. Despite criticism and legal concerns, shareholders approved Musk's $56 billion compensation plan last week.
Japan is promoting itself as the most AI-friendly nation to lure investments from Europe and beyond with its regulation-light strategy.



While the EU just passed the AI Act, the world's first comprehensive AI law, Japan's AI Strategic Council, which leads talks, favors regulations led by the tech industry, as reported by Nikkei Asia.



According to a source familiar with the council's proceedings, "hard law" AI laws are unpopular. The panel promotes industry by prioritizing innovation over regulations. In contrast, under the AI Act, the EU enforces norms through legal and governmental mechanisms.

Japan Loosens AI Restrictions to Win More Investors

Japan's recent measures on artificial intelligence reflect a departure from its laissez-faire approach. Legislators from the Liberal Democratic Party, the ruling party, maintain their commitment to a modest regulatory system.



LDP AI project team leader Masaaki Taira said, "Japan is not inclined toward strict regulations" and they are targeting "minimal interference." He pointed out that Japan has a "slightly loose" AI policy compared to the EU, allowing flexibility in laws to attract talent and finance, the report stated.



KPMG Consulting partner Ken Kumagai contrasted Japan's industry-guided approach with the EU's risk-based AI legislation, including restrictions on risky AI applications.



Recent Japanese legislation, such as the app store regulation bill, supports innovation. Unlike stronger EU policies, this law prioritizes competition and innovation over-regulation.



Despite criticism, Japan's AI Strategic Council continues to explore AI hazards and laws, including hostile AI instances and requests for stronger controls following the EU's AI Act.



Japan's lenient AI regulation has lured Microsoft, Google, and Amazon tech investments, according to experts. These developments demonstrate Japan's rising appeal as an AI innovation hub, despite global competition as stakeholders want a balanced policy that promotes innovation.

Microsoft Japan President Lauds Japan's Swift AI Adoption

Microsoft Japan President Miki Tsusaka believes Japan's quick adoption of AI can enhance its economy and IT industry. She noted that the country's quick digitization during the pandemic and remote work helped close technical gaps, per The Japan Times.



Tsusaka said in an interview that generative AI's growing potential will help address Japan's aging population and manpower difficulties. She also emphasized Microsoft's $2.9 billion investment in AI data centers over the next two years, and its focus on female workforce participation in Japan.

Microsoft Japan's top official noted that the investment, announced in April, boosted utility and industrial shares based on optimism about technological advances driving power demand. She also stressed that it is crucial to adopt cybersecurity in AI adoption.



In line with Japan's AI adoption, TechTimes recently reported that pet owners in the country are increasingly using the tech to monitor and manage their pets' health.



Due to Japan's elderly population and low birth rate, dogs have become family members, forcing owners to invest more in their care. Last year, the Japan Pet Food Association recorded roughly 16 million pet cats and dogs, outnumbering children under 15.



Tech firm Carelogy and Nihon University academics developed the AI-powered software CatsMe!, a pet care breakthrough. This software detects cat discomfort using face recognition, with over 95% accuracy.



Professionals identified pain emotions in 6,000 cat photos to teach CatsMe!, according to Reuters. The program analyzes cat images and rates discomfort as likely to be none, minor, or severe, helping owners decide when to take their pets to the clinic.



Since its inception, over 230,000 members from over 50 countries have joined CatsMe! A January 2024 upgrade made premium features available to all users and switched to a subscription service.
At the recent Eurosatory defense exhibition, US defense contractor Northrop Grumman sounded the urgent need for increased investment in hypersonic weapons.

Bridget Slayen, a senior communicator for Northrop Grumman's international program, stressed the critical importance of not lagging behind global competitors in the development of advanced military technology (via South China Morning Post).

Global Competition on Hypersonic Weapons

Despite not naming any countries in the statement, Northrop Grumman's call to action comes as the United States faces stiff competition from geopolitical rivals China and Russia, both of which have made major advancements in hypersonic weapon technology in the last few years.

Slayen pointed out that threats around the world are driving interest from European and Asia-Pacific partners in the company's air defense and missile products.

"If another country [has] hypersonic missiles... we would want to [make] sure we have the best we can for deterrence factors," Slayen stated, emphasizing the necessity for the US to maintain superiority in advanced weapons.

One of the key projects Northrop Grumman is involved in is the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile (HACM) program. Launched in 2022, the HACM is an air-breathing, scramjet-powered cruise missile capable of flying at speeds greater than Mach 5.

The US Air Force aims to field this weapon by 2027, with flight test activities expected to mature by the financial year 2025.

In March, the US Air Force completed testing of its hypersonic AGM-183A Air-launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW). Chinese think tanks suggested this development sent a 'strong message' to Beijing.

Rising Demand for Defense Systems

The increased investment in hypersonic technology is part of a broader trend in defense spending spurred by ongoing global conflicts and rising geopolitical tensions.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent missile exchanges between Moscow and Kyiv have significantly impacted the demand for advanced defense systems.

Additionally, tensions in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea are further driving the need for robust air and missile defense capabilities in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

China and Russia's Superiority on Hypersonic Weapons

Northrop Grumman's push for more investment in hypersonic weapons is set against a backdrop of significant advancements by China and Russia.

China's DF-17, a medium-range missile system equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle, has been operational since 2019 and is capable of striking targets up to 1,600 kilometers away.

Furthermore, China is developing a 3,000-kilometer range air-launched ballistic missile version of the DF-21, projected to be in service next year.

In March, China also unveiled a hypersonic missile with a 2,000 km range, surpassing existing aerial defense capabilities. The new missile is a long-range, solid-fueled, air-to-surface missile (SAM) targeting early-warning aircraft and bombers.

In Ukraine, Russia used its Kh-47M2 Kinzhal hypersonic air-launched missiles in March 2022, a month after its invasion began.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.
Javan rhino clings to survival after Indonesia poaching wave



Jakarta, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



In 2023, a newborn Javan rhino in Indonesia raised hopes for the highly endangered species. Now, conservationists fear poachers have killed up to a third of the surviving population, possibly with inside help.

Since last year, authorities have arrested six alleged poachers. But eight remain on the run, including one who managed to flee his home hours before police arrived.

The fugitive reportedly had recent data on rhinos in Java's Ujung Kulon national park, the only place in the world the species is still found, sparking fears he had inside assistance.

The poachers claim two gangs have killed 26 rhinos since 2018 -- between a third and a quarter of the species' estimated population.

"It's a huge number," said Nina Fascione, director of the International Rhino Foundation, adding that she was "shocked and devastated".

The suspects reportedly said they killed the rhinos for their horns, which command huge sums from black market buyers in China.

Though horns are made of keratin -- the same substance found in hair and nails -- they are prized for medicinal purposes.

Indonesian police have arrested a collector who bought rhino horns from the gang for 500 million rupiah ($30,500).

While rhino poaching for horns is common elsewhere, the Indonesian case has taken some conservationists by surprise.

"The poaching of the Javan rhino is really a new topic," said Timer Manurung, director of local environmental NGO Auriga Nusantara, which tracks the species.

Poaching of the animal had rarely been reported in recent decades on Java, Indonesia's most populated island.

But last year, Auriga Nusantara reported worrying signs that poachers were encroaching into Ujung Kulon: snares had been discovered and a dead rhino was found with a hole in its head.



- Insider help? -



Still, the scale of the problem exceeds the worst fears of conservationists, and has raised questions about how the poachers tracked the protected animals.

"There were several indications of insider help," including the apparent tip-off of the fugitive poacher and claims he had recent data on rhino locations, said Timer.

Muhammad Ali Imron, head of WWF Indonesia's forest and wildlife programme, told AFP there should be a "full assessment" of all involved in the rhino's conservation over potential collusion.

Indonesian law enforcement has not yet confirmed any insider help, but Fascione said poachers elsewhere have often operated with assistance from those meant to protect the species.

"All it takes is somebody with financial problems... who needs money quickly, urgently, and they're susceptible," said Fascione.

"This is a problem everywhere."

Local reports of the poaching claims began to emerge in April, but it was not until early June that police and the park head paraded suspects before media and released details of their alleged crimes.

And the poachers' claims "need further verification by checking the remains of bones and other signs on the ground," Satyawan Pudyatmoko, Indonesia's directorate general of Nature Resources and Ecosystem Conservation, told AFP.

He said officials had "not seen any such indication" of inside help, and said suspects were tipped off by residents of a nearby village.

Earlier this month, one of the arrested poachers was handed a 12-year prison sentence, the most severe ever given for an Indonesian wildlife crime, after a trial that lasted weeks.

The national park has also beefed up security with round-the-clock patrols, and experts say rangers are working hard to improve protection.



- Numbers 'doubtful' -



Now the question is just how many Javan rhinos remain.

Even before the poaching was revealed, doubts had been cast on the government's estimate of the wild population.

Satyawan told AFP there were an estimated 76 in 2021 and 80 in 2022, based on track monitoring and camera traps.

They now believe 82 remain despite the poaching, with new births expanding the population.

But Auriga said last year that only 63 had been confirmed by sightings in 2018.

That could mean the true figure for Javan rhinos in the wild is now closer to just 50.

An immediate, "transparent and credible" assessment of the species is now needed, said Timer.

"The current number of the population really needs to be reassessed."

He called for respected experts to be given full access to park data to do the count of the rhinos, which can live between 30 and 45 years.

"Without those, the number will be doubtful," he added.

The species has been threatened for decades. It disappeared from its last refuge outside Indonesia, in Vietnam, in 2010, due to poaching.

But conservationists say they are not giving up hope yet for the species in Indonesia, where the population has previously rebounded after nearly dying out.

"The Indonesian government has brought Javan rhinos back from the brink of extinction previously, and can do so again," said Fascione.

In March, another Javan rhino calf, estimated to be three months old, was spotted on camera at Ujung Kulon, showing the species is still breeding properly.

"Javan rhinos know what to do," Fascione said.

"They just need to be protected to do it."

jfx-sah/ser/tym
Illegal gold mining eats into Peruvian Amazon



Madre de Dios, Peru, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



On the banks of the Madre de Dios river, dredges work day and night in search of gold, part of a scourge of illegal mining that is slowly devouring the Peruvian Amazon.

This mega-diverse region of southeast Peru has lost on average 21,000 hectares (52,000 acres) of rainforest -- an area twice the size of Paris -- every year since 2017 despite policing efforts locals say are insufficient.

Where trees used to stand there are now deep sinkholes flooded with brown water where dredges sift through mountains of rubble for the valuable particles.

"The community can no longer plant their corn, their bananas, their cassava, because this land is practically dead," Jaime Vargas, a 47-year-old Shipibo Indigenous leader and reforestation activist, told AFP.

Although mining is prohibited in their territories, Indigenous people have no choice but to coexist with invading gold prospectors in the Madre de Dios department of some 180,000 inhabitants near Peru's borders with Brazil and Bolivia.

Some even end up working for them.

As the international price of gold soared in recent years to reach an all-time high in May, the hunt for the precious metal has only increased in Peru -- the world's tenth biggest producer and second in Latin America, according to the US Geological Survey.



- 'No production record' -



Illegal gold mining, which happens alongside legal, government-regulated extraction, is a major source of financing for organized crime in places like La Pampa, a lawless enclave in Madre de Dios.

"Illegal miners are invading us from all sides," resident Lucio Quispe, 40, told AFP with more resignation than anger.

With his two brothers, Quispe runs a 200-hectare concession granted by the state.

Just hours before the interview, his brothers were brutally attacked by machete-wielding men in a region where clashes over mining spots often turn violent.

A process has been underway since 2016 to issue licences to informal but sanctioned miners such as the Quispes.

In 2022, official data showed Peru produced 96 tons of gold -- but exported about 180 tons to Canada, India, Switzerland and the United States.

"Forty-five percent of exports have no production record," according to an official body tasked with overseeing Peruvian banks and combating money laundering.

Independent studies have named Peru as the largest exporter of illegal gold in South America, with 44 percent of the total, ahead of Colombia with 25 percent and Bolivia with 12 percent, according to the Peruvian Institute of Economics, a think tank.



- 'Sacrificing the forest' -



Trying to get a grip on the problem and protect nature reserves in Madre de Dios, Peru in 2010 demarcated a corridor of 5,000 square kilometers (1,930 square miles) where informal miners will be allowed to operate until the end of this year.

Of the 9,000 informal miners registered by the 2019 cutoff date, only about 200 have obtained a licence to date, according to Augusto Villegas, regional director of energy and mines for Madre de Dios.

In the corridor, every 100 cubic meters of soil dredged yields about 10 to 15 grams (0.35 to 0.53 ounces) of alluvial gold, which today fetches a price of about $63 per gram.

"You can't make an omelette without breaking eggs; you can't mine in Madre de Dios without sacrificing the forest," said Villegas.

Many miners also continue to use toxic mercury to separate gold from the sediment, despite Peru signing an international agreement to scale down its use, and banning imports in 2015.

As the price of mercury exploded, some small-scale miners decided to take a bet on "ecological gold."

Lucila Huanco, 54, said she stopped using mercury three years ago on her 3,000-hectare concession, instead using a gravitational technique to release the gold.

At first, her gold fetched a lower price for its appearance, different to gold mined using mercury. But then she reached an agreement with a buyer in Lima who pays her about $70 per gram.

"Honestly," Huanco said, "I don't want us to be known as polluters anymore."
Swedish emissions dip in 2023 amid climate policy concerns



Stockholm, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



Sweden's greenhouse gas emissions dipped by two percent in 2023, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency said Wednesday, amid experts' concerns that the government's climate policy will soon increase short-term emissions.

In March, an independent panel of experts tasked with reviewing climate policy said the government's plans would lead to short-term emissions increases in 2024 and knock it off-course from its 2030 reduction target.

In 2023, the Scandinavian country's emissions amounted to 44.2 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent, a drop of about one tonne from 2022, according to preliminary statistics, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency said in a statement.

The two percent decrease was in line with a 1.6 percent drop announced by Statistics Sweden in late May.

The EPA said the 2023 figure represented a decrease of 38 percent from 1990.

The EPA attributed the year-on-year drop primarily to lower emissions from industry -- in particular the cement, iron and steel industries, due to lower production as a result of Sweden's economic recession -- and the electric and district heating sector, due to lower electricity prices.

"Emissions have continued to decrease, not least in industry and electric and district heating, which form part of the EU's emissions trading system," Anna-Karin Nystrom, the head of the EPA's climate target division said.

"The pace has slowed compared to the year before, when above all domestic transport and (fuel-based) work machinery contributed to a sharp reduction."

In March, the expert panel, the Swedish Climate Policy Council, said in a report that "policy adopted in 2023 will increase emissions and does not lead towards the fulfilment of Sweden's climate goals and EU commitments by 2030."

The council said several measures, such as a reduced fuel tax, put climate ambitions at risk.

But it also lamented a lack of concrete measures in the government's "climate policy action plan", a roadmap that the government is required by law to present every four years.

Sweden's Minister for Climate and the Environment Romina Pourmokhtari said she was "not particularly worried" about the review's assessments.

"They are based on the government's policy announcements during 2023, and there are several measures that have been added since then," Pourmokhtari said.
Senate probe urges France stop importing Russian LNG



Paris, June 19 (AFP) Jun 19, 2024



A Senate investigating committee called Wednesday for France to stop importing Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) and push for the fuel to face EU sanctions.

The committee's report also urged the state obtain special rights over French energy giant TotalEnergies' strategic decisions and major changes in shareholders.

The probe was launched in December at the instigation of greens lawmakers, but the report was adopted unanimously by committee members although the upper house of parliament is dominated by an alliance of centrist and conservative lawmakers.

TotalEnergies sparked a political furore in France earlier this year when its chief executive Patrick Pouyanne floated the idea of moving the company's main stock listing from Paris to New York.

The report urged the French state to get a "special share" that would give it influence over strategic decisions and changes in ownership of the company.

It said such a move was justified given "the evolution of threats weighing up the energy sovereignty of France and Europe, the evolution of the shareholders structure of TotalEnergies."

North American investors own a large portion of the company's shares.

The committee's report also called for France take a leading position among European nations "by proposing the inclusion of Russian LNG to the list of sanctioned energy products and lead by example by halting as soon as possible the import of Russian LNG into France."

Although deliveries of Russian gas to Europe by pipeline dried up after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, deliveries of LNG by ship continued, with TotalEnergies transporting the gas from Siberian fields to France.

Western sanctions have targeted Russian crude and oil products, but have spared natural gas which is key for heating and industry.

The report also called for French companies to halt starting new oil and gas projects or proceeding to new stages of projects under way in Azerbaijan, which will host the UN climate conference in November.

The committee was formed to look into the means the French state had available and was deploying to ensure TotalEnergies is meeting climate mandates and following French foreign policy goals. The report made a total of 33 recommendations to the state.

nal-cho-ama/rl/cw
Any guest at Tiffany Nguyens house is asked if they would like either wine or tea and then told to make themselves right at home.

Though Nguyen may not invite the general public into her home, all are welcome to partake in either beverage at Ethos Wine & Tea, a new nighttime community-based beverage place she is opening with business partner Kylie Britt. The two are working to create a venue for friends to gather and share drinks together, with or without alcohol.

There always should be space for people who are not drinking, even included in drinking spaces, so tea was something that was important to us, Britt told The Daily Progress. The connections between wine and tea are really fun. Theyre fun parallels, because its a product that can represent place, can represent culture and has a bunch of different varieties.

Ethos is taking over the space that previously housed Guajiros Miami Eatery at 817 W. Main St. In January, the popular restaurant moved just a few blocks away to the Tenth Street Warehouses. Since then, its prior 3,200 square feet and covered patio on West Main have sat vacant. Due to the number of renovations and inspections that remain to be completed, Nguyen and Britt are hesitant to set an official opening date for the business, but estimate it will be sometime this summer.

What people can expect from Ethos: a convivial environment to come together and relax in the late afternoon and evening with either a glass of local wine or a pot of hibiscus tea.

I love gathering people  thats always been a core part of who I am, Nguyen said. Thats my dream, to be a part of the rhythms in different peoples lives. I want to be the space where people can go for a good time, for respite, for recovery, whatever that means, we want to be that.

The aspiring entrepreneurs are fusing their individual skill sets for the endeavor. Nguyen started her own event planning company, Phoenix Collective, in the fall. Having spent the past five years working in the Central Virginia wine industry, including nearly two years as wine director at the Wool Factory local event space, Britt is looking to build out a drink selection that specializes in local, natural and youthful wines. Given her connections with many of the regions winemakers, she is hoping to provide Charlottesville with an opportunity to enjoy the small-batch, regional wines that you cant get elsewhere.

Once they get Ethos up and running, Nguyen said she and Britt may even begin to explore a wine cocktail menu.

On the tea side of things, the duo is focusing on Chinese and Japanese, loose-leaf teas sourced from small suppliers. Nguyen said she hopes to offer some of the flavors she grew up drinking  white rose, peppermint and a ginger-based one  as well as some more colorful and seasonal iced options as they continue to expand their tea knowledge.

A tea feels like something that sits well, it parallels with wine and invites you into a space, said Nguyen.

Though tea may not traditionally be peoples late-night drink of choice, Britt and Nguyen maintain it can be just as convivial, just as community-building as a glass of wine. Ethos is planned to be an upscale lounge, whether customers have a teapot or a wine bottle in front of them.

Were building a beverage destination. But first and foremost, it is a place where we want people to build communities, said Britt. We want our bar and our patio and our additional seating spaces to just be someplace for community.

Ethos will also feature some small plates that will pair with certain wines or teas, though what items will be on the menu remains to be seen. For now, the business partners say their energy is focused on turning their dreams into a reality, a process that Nguyen describes as affirming.

Were happy to be joining the great businesses already on West Main and already in Charlottesville, said Britt. Were happy to just be joining the lineup for another option for people to enjoy.
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 Until the Eiffel Tower came along in 1889, the Great Pyramid of Giza, built by the Pharaoh Khufu (c.2600 BCE), was the tallest building on earth. Not many world records have stood for 4000 years, and no great civilisation lasted so long as pharaonic Egypt. It began with the reign of Narmer (c. 3000 BCE), the first ruler to unify the upper and lower halves of the country, and finished with Cleopatra (5130 BCE), a legendary figure of the ancient world. I know some will argue there have been 65,000 years of Aboriginal civilisation or even 5000 years of the Chinese variety, but there is no credible comparison. What makes Ancient Egypt unique is the power and longevity of the pharaonic system, which withstood multiple invasions, occupations, uprisings and rebellions, transforming every antagonist into another version of itself. Even Alexander the Great, who conquered Egypt in 332 BCE, would fall under its spell. The young Macedonian strongman paid homage to the countrys gods and shrines and was regularly depicted in the traditional costume of an Egyptian ruler. In Pharaoh, at the National Gallery of Victoria, theres a sandstone tablet showing an Egyptianised Alexander worshipping a sacred bull. A gigantic head presumed to be that of the Egyptian Pharoah Amenemhat III, who reigned in the 12th dynasty. Credit:  The Trustees of the British Museum By now, we should be accustomed to the commitment the NGV brings to bear with every major show, but Pharaoh  the British Museums largest-ever loan exhibition  is quite exceptional. A monumental subject has brought forth a monumental feat of exhibition design. There are more than 500 items on display, but the hang feels remarkably spacious, accommodating massive stone statues and tiny pieces of jewellery so the viewer alternates between feelings of awe and intimacy. NGV designer Peter King has conceived the exhibition as a journey from dawn to night. The lighting, wall textures and colours are subtly calibrated to match this conceit as we travel from darkness to light and back again. Between galleries, we walk down long, dark corridors towards an illuminated portal as if we were entering or leaving a tomb. One of the most breathtaking galleries is the colour of a swimming pool, complete with aqueous flickers on the walls, reflected from a series of shiny, wavy columns. Its only when we begin to explore that we realise each column is also a vitrine laden with jewellery.

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Another surprise is an original soundtrack by Peter Corrigan that lends an Egyptian ambience to the visit. This touch could easily have gone wrong, but the composer has handled the task with great skill, creating music that is atmospheric but never intrusive. Ornament of a winged scarab holding a sun disc. Credit:  The Trustees of the British Museum The exhibition has been selected by Marie Vandenbeusch, the BMs Curator: Funerary Culture of the Nile Valley, in consultation with her NGV counterparts. She took her lead from an earlier travelling exhibition of the same name that toured Spain. That small-scale show has grown into a far more comprehensive display, using the pharaoh as the central organising principle. Its an uncontroversial idea because the history of Ancient Egypt is organised in terms of dynasties, the reigns of the rulers and their families. There are seven sections covering everything from the pharaohs relationship to the gods to family life, foreign affairs, the administration of Egypt, and the royal tombs. The aim is to cover 3000 years of history through artefacts, works of art, and crafts. There are no mummies in this show, although there is a stunning sarcophagus. The highlights are the stone sculptures and small, exquisite pieces of jewellery, every item invested with meaning. A 12th-dynasty girdle with gold amulets, beads and pendants comprising electrum, silver, lapis lazuli, feldspar, amethyst, cornelian and glass. Credit:  The Trustees of the British Museum In the first room, one is greeted by a colossal head of Amenemhat III (c. 185408 BCE), once part of a full figure but now isolated on a mirrored column. The effect is both awesome and elegiac. We feel the power of this long-dead ruler, even if today he is no more than a disembodied head. Looking at the column, we see ourselves. It hints at the way the pharaohs exalted status was built on the labour and reverence of ordinary people. Another finely carved bust in the same room is the image that appears on the cover of the catalogue: a head of Thutmose III (1479-25), wearing a distinctive bulb-shaped crown with a rearing cobra. The king is depicted with a gentle smile and alert, almond-shaped eyes, yet there is no way of knowing if any portrait bust bore much physical resemblance to its royal subject. It was all propaganda, albeit of high artistic quality. A king might choose to look wise or stern, a pair of overly large ears could mean he is listening to his people.

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One convention that lasted throughout the entire pharaonic period was the depiction of the ruler as a giant towering over commoners and usually smiting his enemies. (Its a motif Albo might consider). This is the way the king appears in the Narmer Palette, a seminal stone carving from the first dynasty (c. 3000 BCE). The original is on permanent display in Cairo, but the BM has included an exact cast. Figures of a king and two gods in jubilation. Credit:  The Trustees of the British Museum The palette, which shows Narmer preparing to bludgeon an enemy with a club, is an explicit threat to all challengers. The pharaoh had unified Egypt by force of arms and would hold on to his throne in the same way. The pattern would be repeated with almost every one of the more than 170 pharaohs that followed. They fought to extend Egypts sphere of influence or defend its boundaries against a succession of invaders. In time the barbarians  Hyksos, Libyans, Nubians, Assyrians - would win those battles and install themselves as Pharaohs. The kings of the Ptolemaic period were Greek speakers who adopted the outward forms of Egyptian kingship. No matter where a pharaoh may have originated, for 3,000 years, they wielded absolute power over everyone and everything, allowing the machinery of government to be run by an army of bureaucrats. During days of prosperity, the arts and civic works flourished, but in lean times, the kings would cannibalise their predecessors monuments for their own purposes. The greatest tomb robbers were the pharaohs of later dynasties who plundered the graves of the most celebrated pharaohs to make up for their own relative poverty. A limestone ostracon (fragment containing an inscription) depicts the workman Khnummose adoring the snake goddess Meresger. The writing on the other side mentions his two sons. Credit:  The Trustees of the British Museum Its an accident of fate that a minor figure, such as Tutankhamun, is now the best-known pharaoh of all time, having made it through to 1922 with his tomb largely intact. His more illustrious peers, such as Ramses II, Amenhotep III and Thutmose III, did not have his posthumous luck. The rebel Pharaoh Akhenaten, who sought to do away with the pantheon of Egyptian gods in favour of a single deity, was almost obliterated from the records after his death. If any of these kings tombs had survived, they would have presented a spectacle beyond Hollywoods imaginings. With so many items in this show, I can only hope to talk about a fraction of them. The most striking pieces, such as 10 tall statues of the lion-headed goddess, Sekhmet, speak for themselves, while many small gold objects repay the closest scrutiny. If theres an indisputable masterpiece, it must be the seated statue of Sety II (12001194 BCE), which is so elegant and so beautifully carved the sculptor would be acclaimed as a master if only we knew his name.

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THE CONVERT 

(MA) 119 minutes

Its 1830 and lay preacher Thomas Munro (Guy Pearce) is about to join a cluster of British settlers who have made a precarious home for themselves on a stretch of land on the west coast of New Zealands South Island. It looks like a place fit only for the brave, desperate or crazily optimistic, and Munro is a bit of all three.

Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne as Rangimai and Guy Pearce as Thomas Munro in The Convert. Credit: Kismet

Hes out to relieve his guilt over those he killed as a soldier in the British army by devoting the rest of his life to good works. But its already very clear things arent going to play out as planned. His ship is greeted by a storm, and before he gets the chance to meet his new parishioners hes in the middle of a skirmish between two warring Maori tribes.

The parishioners, too, turn out to be a disappointment, having come equipped with a sanctimonious sense of their superiority. Even though they pay rent for the land, they predictably regard their Maori landlords as savages, and when Munro asks the settlements doctor to treat the wounded Maori princess he has rescued from the fight, he refuses.
All Australian children would be tested for numeracy knowledge in the first two years of school under a plan to halt underachievement in maths.

Education experts are stepping up pressure on the government to adopt a universal screening tool  similar to the grade 1 phonics test  to more quickly identify and assist children at risk of falling behind.

Education experts say universal numeracy screening could halt Australias catch-up crisis. Credit: Getty Images

In a report out on Thursday, Kelly Norris from think tank the Centre for Independent Studies says current student assessments do not meet adequate standards for universal screening.

She said the lack of a robust, consistent and evidence-based safety net had triggered a national catch-up crisis.
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FoodMasterChef Recap A favourite cracks under the pressure of this devastating bacon-and-eggs themed shock elimination Will pepper ice-cream and stuffed peppers prevail in an invention test that leaves us all feeling less than sunny-side-up? Ben Pobjie June 19, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

This recap appears in the MasterChef 2024 recap collection. See all stories .

After the tragic departure of Alex left the MasterChef kitchen far less Scandinavian, the amateurs enter the next morning to find bad news waiting for them. You should know never to let your guard down, says Andy, before giving nipple cripples to everyone in the room. Even worse, its a surprise elimination, and another contestant will be joining Alex in Valhalla before the day is out. More than that, though, the best dish will win its maker a mysterious prize. Little do we know just how devastating things are about to get. Its an invention test, and the task is to come up with an interesting take on bacon and eggs. First, though, they all pause to mock Sofia for saying eggs and bacon, the poor naive fool. Is it eggs and bacon or bacon and eggs, Sofia (pictured right)? Ten Harry finds himself at something of a loss, as neither eggs nor bacon is a kind of fish. He declares his intention to shoot for the stars, by building a small but powerful rocket. He explains to Poh and Sofia that he plans to make a nitrous oxide scrambled egg, which may technically be illegal.

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The soundtrack switches into theme-from-Halloween mode as Mimi begins describing her terrifying dish: a blueberry pie with bacon on top, and a black pepper ice-cream. I like it, Poh stammers nervously, not wanting to risk antagonising someone so obviously unstable. Sofia agrees, knowing that the important thing with a person who is trying to make black pepper ice-cream is to humour them until trained professionals arrive. A timer goes off, annoying everyone. After several minutes of beeping, Sav realises that its her timer, which she set to remind her when it was time to annoy everyone. Oh, Lachlan is still here. Thats nice. He tells Andy and Jean-Christophe that he is stuffing a pepper with bacon and eggs. So youre stuffing bacon into the pepper? asks Jean-Christophe. Yes, Lachlan replies. Jean-Christophe and Andy stare at him, completely failing to grasp the concept. Andy advises Lachlan to do something more inventive. Personally, I think stuffing a pepper with bacon and eggs is pretty inventive. I mean, it sounds awful, but its definitely inventive, and historically, awful-but-inventive is what wins on this show.

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But no, the judges reckon a stuffed pepper is painfully dull, so Lachlan will have to make a bacon and egg cheesecake or serve it in the mouth of a live horse or something. Josh is making a cake, and he knows the time it will take to bake will mean hes running it dangerously close. Ive just got to back myself, he says, which is what people usually say when they know theyre screwed. He gazes mournfully into the oven, failing to take care that the oven does not also gaze into him. Elsewhere, Harry is explaining the concept of nitrous oxide scrambled eggs. They are like normal scrambled eggs, but lighter and bouncier and suitable for use on dental patients. He tastes the eggs and begins laughing hysterically. Savs timer goes off again. For gods sake, Sav.

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Nat is boiling some duck eggs, but making sure the water isnt too hot, for fear of arousing the ire of PETA. Andy and Poh mutter darkly to themselves about Nats poor egg strategy. Just fry an egg, says Poh, whipping out her legendary catchphrase. They make sure Nat doesnt heat them though, as they know it will be funnier if she fails. Meanwhile, Lachlan has overcooked his peppers, which is pretty inventive, right? The judges should lap that up: none of the other amateurs have had the guts to overcook their peppers. Sumeet takes her stuffed naan out of the oven and is pleased. She takes out a blowtorch, as the recipe calls for the naan to be welded to an iron frame. The attractiveness of the stuffed naan is in stark contrast to Lachlans stuffed pepper, which looks like the remains of the exploding squid monster from the end of Watchmen. Whose bacon and eggs will be sunny side up, and whose MasterChef journey will be over-(all too)easy? Ten In the blink of an eye (17 hours), time is up, and Josh is presenting his bacon and pecan slice with eggnog ice-cream, which should, if nothing else, get the judges nice and drunk. Joshs dish is a success and gets Jean-Christophe to say fantastic, as we have all been waiting for.

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The Pezza sitting opposite us is not the Pezza who walked in on day one of competition, says Sofia. After the imposter is apprehended and taken into custody, the tasting continues. Next to serve is Mimi, with her blueberry and bacon-biscuit cobbler and black pepper ice-cream. That looks pretty epic, says Andy, but the other judges make him stop watching Godzilla x Kong so he can taste Mimis dish. It is weird and gross so obviously the judges love it, apart from Sofia, who risks social ostracism by timidly suggesting that maybe black pepper ice-cream doesnt go with blueberry cobbler. But is that just because I find it challenging? she asks herself. No, Sofia. Trust your feelings. MasterChef is a surreal and disturbing place, and today it has truly lived up to its reputation as hell on earth. Heres Harry with his nitrous oxide eggs, which have become so bouncy it takes half an hour to catch them as they careen away down the street. Served on little rolls with bacon, they are marvellous, and prove that Harry can, if backed into a corner, cook something that doesnt smell like a sardine trawler. Theres a lot of ticks here for me, says Andy, but it tasted so good he forgives the swarm of parasites in the roll. Darrsh serves his kottu roti. Its nice. Next.

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Sav serves her milk rice with treacle bacon and a runny egg. It tastes lovely but Sofia notes that Sav has not reinvented her egg component and therefore must be shunned by decent people. Nat plates up ginger congee with duck eggs and bacon. The eggs are underdone, as prophesied by Poh and Andy, though Poh says shed be happy if she went to her aunts house and was served the dish, sosick burn on Pohs aunt, I guess? Lachlan knows his stuffed pepper is not his best dish, and the fact that it looks like a dead animal left out in the sun does not raise hopes particularly high. However, the judges agree that although the dish may look ugly, it actually tastes even worse. Sumeets stuffed naan looks fantastic, and it tasteskind of bad? ButSumeet is good! Whats going on? None of this makes any sense!

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The judges announce that the worst cooks today were Sumeet and Lachlan. They both stuffed up, but Lachlan put an egg yolk on top of his dish, and so Sumeet has to go home. It hardly seems fair that ones greatest dream can be destroyed just because a guy puts an egg yolk on top of a pepper, but MasterChef is a surreal and disturbing place, and today it has truly lived up to its reputation as hell on earth. Sumeet, the purest soul ever to have a sauce available in Coles stores Australia-wide, leaves to the sound of tears and rending garments. God only knows what the point of proceeding with the rest of the series is, but on we go. Andy announces that the amateurs are all going to Hong Kong, but Sumeet wont be because life sucks. Harry cooked the best dish and therefore gets to fly business class, which is oddly underwhelming news. Tune in next week, when the exciting and beautiful metropolis of Hong Kong thrills everyone but not Sumeet. Collection MasterChef 2024: The Ben Pobjie episode recaps
The new figures demonstrate the unfairness of the school funding system. Wealthy private schools are overfunded while public schools that serve the most vulnerable and disadvantaged continue to be vastly underfunded, Cobbold said. Cobbold, who runs public education advocacy group Save Our Schools, analysed parents financial data against federal funding. It reveals Loreto Kirribilli, Newington College and St Augustines  where parents median income exceeds $300,000  will each receive more than $11 million in federal funding above the school resourcing standard from 2022-28. Students at Mosman Church of England Preparatory School have the highest-earning parents Credit: Edwina Pickles Private schools are given a capacity to contribute score to determine their government funding based on how much the parents can afford to pay. The DMI system uses income to determine funding rather than the previous method, which used address-based data. Cobbold argues the DMI method underestimates the capacity of private school parents to pay fees because it does not consider other sources of income of families and the schools.

Association of Independent Schools of NSW chief executive Margery Evans said funding for every Catholic and private school was reset when the government changed the model. This resulted in some schools attracting more funding and others attracting less. An adjustment phase was implemented to avoid abrupt cuts that would have impacted school budgets and parent fees, she said. Each non-government school is managing this transition by cutting its costs, raising fees or a combination of both. Every non-government school is receiving the funding amount it is meant to receive at this time. Evans said some mid-fee schools that raised fees had reported that they were losing students from families at the lower end of the income scale, which had the knock-on effect of lifting their capacity to contribute score.

Almost 90 private schools lost money when the new model was introduced. Funding varies due to the number of students in each school. Australian Education Union president Correna Haythorpe said no NSW public schools were funded at the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS), the minimum level governments agreed a decade ago was required to meet the needs of students. The new figures exposed the staggering inequity in school funding. In contrast to public schools, every private school in NSW is either funded at or above their SRS entitlement. Fully funding public schools is the only way to ensure every child gets the support they need to succeed, and we can recruit and retain sufficient numbers of teachers, she said. Federal Education Minister Jason Clare, who is negotiating with the states and territories for new funding deal this year, said most non-government schools were at the 100 per cent funding level that David Gonski set.

Public schools, outside of the ACT, are below that level and are not on track to meet it. Weve got to fix that funding gap. That requires the Commonwealth to chip in and the states and territories to chip in, he said. We need to develop a new agreement which funds our schools properly, sets targets and invests in the practical reforms to help kids catch up, keep up and finish school. Greens senator Penny Allman-Payne, who asked the question at Senate estimates that resulted in the median incomes being released, said the promise of Gonski was a needs-based, sector-blind funding model that would direct spending to the kids that need it most. But its clear the opposite has happened. The private sector is favoured above the public system, and poorer, regional and remote and First Nations kids are the ones who suffer, she said.
THE FORUM AN RBA fallacy

Inflation is nothing other than the Consumer Price Index, which is the change in prices of rents, property rates, food, transport, insurance, health etc. Now, the Reserve Bank of Australia thinks that it can slow down these price increases by increasing the cash rate.

It should be clear to it that by increasing the cash rate the cost of money goes up and so the price of all these items rises. The idea that landlords will reduce their rent increases when the cost of their mortgage on the property rises is a fallacy.

Are local councils going to stop increasing property rates just because the cost of money has risen? No. Supermarkets are not going to stop their price increases when their costs go up either. Consumers may buy less but this does not reduce price. Consumers may cancel insurance, but this does not reduce price rises.

The benefit of increases in the cash rate is price increases benefiting the banks among others.

David King, South Yarra Its counterproductive

I have always been a supporter of Palestinian rights and independence and in past years I have rallied with them.

Israel is an occupying force in Palestine. It utterly controls the lives of the Palestinians and has done for decades. The Palestinians are afforded no dignity. Resentment has built up since 1948, and as despicable as the October 7 attacks were they were highly predictable. Now the brutal war in Gaza is affecting life here.

However, much sympathy I have for the Palestinian cause I have no sympathy at all for the destruction and defacing of politicians offices, nor the fear that the vandals are creating in the community. Those who are genuinely distressed sympathisers of the Palestinian people are finding their cause is getting tainted by the few who just want to cause trouble.

Perpetrating violence and destruction is no good wherever takes place, whether it be in Gaza or here, and using it to make a political point is counterproductive and very regrettable.

Judy Hungerford, Kew Keep it peaceful

I have never seen such support from Australians and internationally for the plight of Palestinians in my lifetime. To maintain this support, Palestinian movements in Australia must tread carefully.

Daubing parliamentary offices and libraries (Baillieu library graffitied, 19/6), violent demonstrations, using groups which might have a wider agenda than the Israel/Palestine dispute will diminish this groundswell of support for which Palestinians have waited so long. Demonstrate but keep it peaceful.

Tony Devereux, Nunawading Phonics pathway

As a specialist teacher trained and working daily in literacy instruction, I wholeheartedly disagree with Tom Mahoneys suggestion that the mandate to teach phonics is ill-advised (What mandated phonics means for Victorias haemorrhaging teacher numbers, 19/6).

As a profession, we must be responsive to evidence. Many teachers will require retraining, and this is necessary to support their skills and knowledge and improve student outcomes.

When I transitioned from a science teacher to a literacy teacher, I was a blank canvas on the views of how to teach reading. After thorough research and putting it into practice, the evidence was clear: explicitly teaching phonics and phonemic awareness was the most effective way to build the crucial reading skills of all students, putting them on the pathway to becoming skilled readers.

Teaching teenagers who couldnt read Grade 1 texts how to read, proved to me that the structured and explicit approach to teaching reading is the most sensible and evidence-based approach.

Teaching is hard work, and it is made more challenging when students arent skilled readers. The mandate is not a panacea, but it is a step in the right direction and has my support.

Name and address withheld

Tax private schools

Im pleased to see that Victoria receives net tax from 42 high fee paying schools, however whats disappointing is that 558 are still supported by taxpayers. (Victorian takes net tax from 42 of 600-odd fee schools, 19/6).

We must remember that unfortunately they receive the bulk of their subsidy from the federal government, and that we are one of the few countries in the world that subsidises private schooling. The sooner we stop subsidising private schooling the better. If you choose private schools thats fine, but you should pay for it.

Denise Stevens, Healesville Cost of ditching gas

I suspect your correspondent (Letters, Switch not so easy, 19/6) was not well advised on costs and complexity in changing over from gas to heat pumps (aka reverse cycle).

We made the change 3 years ago, after years of expensive ducted gas central heating supplemented by a wood heater.

We threw out the gas central heating and the wood heater, replacing all with three reverse cycle units, heating those main areas that needed them. Bedrooms and bathrooms being heated by conventional electric heaters. These are turned on only on the few occasions required. The three units (18kW in total) heat a large house for less than the previous cost of wood alone. They are totally silent and cost less than $11,000, fully installed. There is no issue with piping it is all very small bore. The indoor heaters are floor rather than wall mounted and dont detract from the aesthetics of a Federation house.

Colin Simmons, Woodend Rehabilitate ex-prisoners

While it is appropriate that the National Disability Insurance Agency makes sure that providers of disability services are safe, and risks are being properly managed (Shorten asks states for list of criminals on the NDIS, 19/6), supporting people who leave prison increases the likelihood of rehabilitation, which increases the safety and well-being of the whole community.

Based on our experience of church members engagement with people sent to prison, a lack of support provided to people with disability was often a causal factor in them breaking the law in the first place.

When governments rightly shut down institutions for people with mental impairments, they failed to put in place necessary supports in the community for these people. In some cases, prisons have now replaced those institutions.

It makes far more sense to assist people to be productive members of the community than leave them in situations where they are more likely to return to prison.

Dr Mark Zirnsak, senior social justice advocate, Uniting Church in Australia Dirigiste thinking

George Brandis reflections (Brexit will dominate the UK election. Not this one, but the next, 18/6) on UK Labours likely actions perhaps reflect his own ideological bent, rather than a fairer appraisal of public opinion. He says we can expect a more dirigiste government. True, we can anticipate Labour to exert more centralised control, given the disorganised 14 years of Tory leadership clumsily lurching towards a disorganised, laissez-faire, Trump-like, populist approach, which has gutted all the fundamental education, health, housing and transport services that people expect of their government.

Brexit of course was a catalyst. But to envisage an unbridled, socialist Starmer taking the UK back to the implied dark days of the 70s  I think not. Ironically the major concern of many Labour supporters is that Sir Keir Starmer will be too conservative, when the public wants a U-turn out of recession.

As for the Brandis concerns that imposing VAT (their GST) on private schools will (horror of horrors) force many middle income families into the state system, this rhetoric and its cousin, aspiration, have served conservative Australian governments well; but is nonsensical in Britain where fewer that six per cent of students attend private schools

John Brooks, Vermont South US beats Chinese model

The US system might be flawed as your correspondent suggests (Letters, 19/6) but it is still a damn sight better than the China model he seems to be spruiking. Sure, China has lifted around 800 million people out of poverty, but US-led capitalism, for all its flaws, has given billions of people around the world the opportunity of a better lifestyle.

Your corespondent says the US has a paranoid opposition to socialism and communism. It sure does, and with communist poster boys like China, Russia and North Korea, why wouldnt it? The US political system, even with underwhelming Biden and Trump as its best candidates, is still democratic and therefore vastly superior to Chinas, where Xi Jinping is the only option.

And your writer might like to ponder the evils of US hegemony the next time Chinese coastguard boats fire water cannon at innocent Phillipines fishing boats.

Greg Hardy, Upper Ferntree Gully

Art of conversation

This weekend marks the departure of Phillip Adams from the little wireless program, Late Night Live, on Radio National. His presence has become such a cornerstone of my evening routine that even my phone has started reminding me to listen in when it hits 10pm.

As a 29-year-old, I am continuously impressed by Phillips ability to keep an open mind, critically think and show curiosity to new ideas and perspectives. We all ought to take a leaf out of Phillips book when it comes to the art of a conversation. I will always be grateful for the comfort and calmness that Phillip has provided via the humble radio.

Ella Casey, Carlton North AND ANOTHER THING Credit: Illustration: Matt Golding Duttons nuclear plans

Peter Dutton said that the nuclear power stations would be built by a corporation modelled on the NBN and Snowy 2.0. How late did those projects run, or are running?

Reg Murray, Glen Iris Which is easier to sell to NIMBYs  wind turbines 20km offshore or nuclear reactors in your backyard?

Bernd Rieve, Brighton

The Coalition has proposed a nuclear reactor at Loy Yang, Gippsland. The Loy Yang site is close to primary schools, secondary colleges and the Federation University campus. Have the tragic lessons of Chernobyl (1986), Fukushima (2011) and Kashiwazaki (2007) been lost on the Coalition?

David Baker, Parkdale After reading todays Age I thought  Australia would be a nice place to live, if it wasnt for the politicians.

David Cayzer, Clifton Hill The Coalition the better economic manager? I refer to the statistics from Age Insight of May 13, 2023 which illustrated the Coalition has not had a balanced budget since Peter Costello.

Shirley Videion, Hampton Im glad I havent invested in land in the Latrobe Valley.

Sandra Torpey, Hawthorn Could Mr Dutton please detail how he would reduce energy prices for todays consumers?

Fiona Colin, Malvern East
Internationally recognised financial services firm Lazard also found renewable energy sources continued to be much cheaper than nuclear. It said onshore wind was the cheapest, with a cost of between $US25 and $US73 per megawatt hour. The second cheapest was utility-sized solar at between $US29 and $US92. Nuclear was the most expensive, at between $US145 and $US222. How long does it take to build a nuclear reactor? Dutton has promised to build two reactors before 2037. He said small modular reactors, which are not yet in commercial production, could be completed by 2035, while traditional large-scale reactors could be in operation by 2037. Most experts say this timeline is too ambitious and it would take far longer. This is because of challenges such as establishing a safety regime, importing a skilled workforce to build the plants, and preventing any cost blowouts.

New legislation would also be required to legalise the industry, after the Howard government banned nuclear energy generation in 1998. Loading Former chief scientist Alan Finkel, who was a special adviser to the federal government on low-emissions technology, has forecast longer construction times than those envisaged by the opposition. He said it would take at least 20 years for a large-scale or small modular reactor to start generating electricity for the grid. However, Professor Andrew Stuchbery, head of physics at the Australian National University, said both China and the United Arab Emirates had built nuclear plants within a decade. China do it all the time  The UAE is an interesting example because they started absolutely from scratch, and they built them [reactors] in a bit under 10 years, Stuchbery said. If you look at some of the reactor projects in Europe and the US, they have been subject to delays, and the reason for that is that they had lost supply lines, they had lost the expertise in the country.

The World Nuclear Association says the current global median build time for a nuclear plant is about nine years. Can the Coalition keep a lid on cost blowouts? Experts warn the potential for cost blowouts is a major risk for the oppositions nuclear plan. Dutton said an opposition government would build nuclear plants with a Commonwealth-owned corporation, such as Snowy Hydro. The Snowy 2.0 pumped hydro project has blown out from an initial cost of $2 billion to $12 billion, while the construction deadline has been extended by seven years, to 2028. The UKs flagship nuclear project, Hinkley C, has been beset by delays and cost blowouts. In 2017, the French-owned contractor EdF said it would be completed within a decade for $15 billion. But construction delays and technical problems have pushed out the estimated price to more than $90 billion, and the start date to about 2031.

The United States most recent nuclear power project, at the Vogtle Electric Generating Plant in Georgia, sought to double the plants capacity with two more reactors. Design began in 2005 and it was initially costed at $US13 billion, with a 2023 completion date. While the first reactor came online last year, it cost $US34 billion. The UAE had more success with timing. It awarded a contract to South Korean company KEPCO in 2009 to build four nuclear reactors, estimated to be worth up to $US30 billion. Construction of the first reactor began in 2012 and was completed in 2020, with the other three also taking less than nine years to complete. Does a green grid need nuclear? The Coalitions policy manifesto says shifting to nuclear will keep an always-on source of 24/7 baseload power in the system to drive prices down and keep the lights on while we decarbonise. The energy market is made up of retailers, who buy electricity supply in short blocks around the clock, and generators, who supply the power. These generators compete on price and the cheapest always wins.

Renewables currently supply about 40 per cent of the grids electricity, and the Albanese government is aiming to have renewables supply 82 per cent of the grid by 2030. Loading The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), which manages the day-to-day operations of the energy grid, has forecast that more than 80 per cent of coal power will shut down by 2032, and all of it will be gone by 2038. The advocates for both nuclear and coal power argue that continuous electricity generation, also known as baseload power, is needed for stable, secure energy supply. They argue renewables are subject to events such as wind and solar droughts, while nuclear plants are designed to run around the clock. The flipside is that nuclear plants cannot be turned off at short notice and could spend a lot of time operating at a loss. Thats because the large amount of solar power in Australia can often drop daytime wholesale power prices to $0.

The Albanese government cites the AEMO, which says the grid does not need a new source of baseload power. The operator has said wind and solar, paired with batteries and pumped hydro dams, will be able to supply up to 90 per cent of our power needs in the future, while rapid-response gas or hydrogen-fired generation plants could be used in short bursts when needed. Can the Coalition build reactors if nuclear energy is banned? Duttons nuclear ambitions have already started a fight with state governments and raised questions about how a federal Coalition government would gain access to the sites of old coal plants to build nuclear reactors. Dutton said he would create a Commonwealth-owned corporation, which could apply a national interest test and compulsorily acquire land or reactor sites. But he would still need state approval for project development. As well as overturning legislated bans on nuclear energy at the federal level, he will need to overcome state laws in NSW, Victoria and Queensland.
A billion-dollar promise to rebuild the Maroondah Hospital on its existing site is in doubt as government officials are considering moving the ageing facility to a nearby shopping centre precinct or potentially to a wedge of land 10 kilometres away.

The Age has spoken to six sources familiar with the planning process who said the cost and challenge of rebuilding the hospital on its existing Ringwood East site has pushed authorities to examine other locations under a feasibility study.

Labor promised to rebuild the Maroondah Hospital on its existing Ringwood East site before the last election. Credit: Eddie Jim

The sources include representatives from local and state government, across both major parties, and from industry, who are aware of discussions about the new hospital.

The sources  who did not want to be named because doing so could jeopardise their positions  confirmed the site of the old Knox drive-in cinema in Wantirna, which is almost 10 kilometres away from the current Maroondah Hospital, had also been put forward as one location.
Saigon is back, baby, and it slams you like a whiff of fish sauce in a hot pho as soon as you set foot in the city. Vietnams southern metropolis is not only bouncing back post-pandemic, its kicking on.

Bui Vien Walking Street has a bustling nightlife. Credit: iStock

And where younger travellers might have headed for Balis Kuta Beach or Pattaya in Thailand, the citys trendy cocktail bars, Bui Vien walking street and huge drinking barns, complete with DJs pumping out beats from elevated stages, are relatively new magnets.

Of course, solemn snakes of middle-aged tourists are still being hustled from one historic venue to the next, but the food and drink scene seems to include as many young locals as there are cashed-up visitors.

Saigon, rarely called Ho Chi Minh City by locals, has a whole new look. Gone is the shuttering that forced pedestrians to share footpaths with scooters while engineers dug mega-trenches for the new Metro rail system.
The woman is smiling at the camera with a rifle slung over her shoulder and the world is at her feet. But there is so much trouble yet to come.

In Placa de Catalunya, a broad square in central Barcelona, this photo held by tour guide Nick Lloyd is a portal to a different time. It shows the same square back in 1936, and at its centre is Marina Ginesta, a young socialist reporter. A military uprising has just been quashed, but the Spanish Civil War is about to begin.

La Rambla, Barcelona: The citys famous promenade. Credit: iStock

And thats the topic of Lloyds tour: how the civil war unfolded in Barcelona. Though today this beautiful Spanish city is renowned for its good food and impressive architecture, in the late 1930s it was the focus of political upheaval. Our guide is a Brit who has lived in the city for many years, becoming interested in the conflict when he encountered a photo of a young man who went off to fight.

As his fascination grew he amassed a collection of artefacts which he carries on his tours  referring to them as his walking museum. As we stand in the square, hearing Nick explain the origins of the conflict and the different groups involved, we pass around badges from overseas campaigns to aid Spanish democracy, photos of the aftermath of urban battles, and reproductions of magazine covers and illustrations. One item thats particularly striking is a poster produced by the Barcelona barbers collective, with a white-coated barber standing next to his chair while breaking apart a chain.
Las Vegas: The strange monolith looks like it could have come from another world.

Jutting out of the rocks in a remote mountain range near Las Vegas, the glimmering rectangular prisms reflective surface imitates the vast desert landscape surrounding the mountain peak where it has been erected.

This photo provided by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department shows a monolith near Gass Peak, Nevada. Credit: AP

But where did the object come from, and is it still there? Thats a mystery the US Fish and Wildlife Service said it was trying to solve after learning about it through a social media post this week.

Las Vegas police said on the social platform X that members of its search and rescue unit had found the otherworldly object at the weekend near Gass Peak, part of the vast Desert National Wildlife Refuge, where bighorn sheep and desert tortoises can be found roaming. At 2114 metres, it is among the highest peaks in the area north of Las Vegas.
Hermitage releases 100-year-old Cognac

Premium Cognac house Hermitage has announced Hermitage Siecle dOr 100 Years Old Cognac, the oldest barrel-aged Cognac it has ever released.

Named for the Golden Century in France, just 68 one-litre decanters of the Cognac have been released, presented in handmade Cumbria Crystal decanters.

The Siecle dOr 100 Years Old Cognac has been made from Ugni Blanc grapes from the Grande Champagne region and distilled in copper Alembic Charentais stills.

David Baker, founder, explained that the release is one of only a very small quantity of Cognac aged in cellars in the heart of the Premier Cru of Cognac known as Grande Champagne.

He continued: Untouched and unblended this vintage Cognac has aged for 100 years in Limousin oak barrels. This exceptionally long ageing period has created a wide complexity of rich flavours and aromas, common only with the finest and oldest Cognacs. The balance and depth of flavour is a masterpiece of smoothness and quality. Flavours of cocoa, burnt toffee, mushroom, ginger, candied fruit, and kumquat are all wrapped up in an intensely rich rancio found only in the rarest of Cognacs.

Hermitage Cognac Siecle dOr 100 Year Old Cognac (40.5% ABV) is available to purchase via Hermitage Cognac , priced at 24,900.

19 June 2024 - Lucy Schofield
By Mata Press Services

Canadians are growing more negative in their views towards immigration, according to a new national survey conducted by Research Co.

The poll found that 44% of Canadians now believe immigration has a mostly negative effect in the country, up 6 percentage points since a similar survey in October 2023. In contrast, 42% view immigration's impact as mostly positive, a 3-point decrease over the same period.

The survey reveals a stark generational divide, with 55% of those aged 18-34 holding positive views on immigration, compared to only 37% of those 55 and older and 32% aged 35-54.

Moreover, 46% of Canadians want to see the number of legal immigrants allowed into Canada decrease, an increase of 7 points. Just 31% want immigration levels to stay the same, while 15% want an increase.

Majorities in Atlantic Canada (53%), Ontario (53%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (50%), and British Columbia (48%) favour reducing legal immigration.

Alberta (42%) and Quebec (34%) showed lower levels of support for decreasing immigration.

"About two in five Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party or NDP in the last federal election would decrease legal immigration to Canada," said Mario Canseco, President of Research Co.

"The proportion jumps to 63% among those who supported the Conservatives."

The poll also revealed Canadians remain divided on whether to view the nation as a cultural mosaic, where differences are preserved (44%), or a melting pot where immigrants assimilate (42%).

Two-thirds (66%) still believe immigrants' hard work and talent make Canada better, while 65% think they should adopt Canadian values.

Men (50%) and Conservative voters (58%) tended to favour the melting pot concept, while women (48%), Liberals (48%) and NDP voters (54%) were more likely to prefer the mosaic model.

Amidst this shift towards immigration, the federal government is seeking Canadians help in shaping its coming plan for how many newcomers should be welcomed to the country.

For the first time, officials are including in the plan the targets for temporary residents, whose population has soared from 1.4 million two years ago to todays 2.5 million: About 42 percent of them are here on study permits, 53 percent on work permits and five percent as asylum seekers, reported the Toronto Star.

These surveys and consultations are more important than ever before because the context this time around is very different than it was even from last year, said Lou Janssen Dangzalan, vice president of policy at the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association.

They used to be such a mundane topic but now its become a hot-button issue because it takes on a new dimension with temporary residents and then the economic hardship in Canada. What does that mean?

Canadas current 2023-2025 immigration levels plan proposes to increase the number of permanent residents Canada welcomes annually to 485,000 in 2024, 500,000 in 2025 and 500,000 in 2026. The survey seeks input to decide if the next two years intake should be adjusted, and to inform new targets for 2027. The 2023 target was 465,000.

Were seeking your views on the balance among different categories and programs, and how immigration can best support Canada from multiple perspectives, said the introduction of the survey, which targets governments, organizations and interest groups.

The two-month online consultation, open until June 30, contains 27 questions and asks respondents, among many things:

 To rank the objectives of the immigration system: whether those are to address economic needs, reunite families, increase population, uphold humanitarian commitments, sustain regional communities or enrich diversity.

 If the 2026 target of 500,000 permanent residents, or 1.25 percent of the population, is appropriate.

 If spots should be prioritized for economic, family or humanitarian classes.

 To identify the top investments required to bring in more immigrants to their local community, ranging from public transit to housing, schools, health-care services and internet access.

Calls are also mounting for a Royal Commission to study what the country wants from its immigration system in a non-partisan manner, independent from politicians and civil servants. They said the objectives of international education and foreign worker programs should be part of the review.

The next immigration levels plan will be released in the fall.

Meanwhile, a new global trends report released last week by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) says Canada received 146,800 new claims by asylum seekers in 2023, up from 94,000 the year before.

Only four countries were ahead of Canada: the United States (1.2 million), Germany (329,100), Egypt (183,100) and Spain (163,200).

Last year was the first time Canada ranked in the top five in at least six years. In 2022, the country was in ninth place.

The number of displaced people has increased every year for 12 years, according to the United Nations (UN). The number of forcibly displaced people surged to 117.3 million in 2023 from 108.4 million in 2022. As of May, the UN agency said the number had already risen to 120 million, an eight percent increase compared to last year.

Behind these stark and rising numbers lie countless human tragedies, Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, said in a UNHCR press release issued Thursday.

The report says 158,700 refugees were resettled in 2023. Canada accepted nearly 51,100 of them, the majority of whom arrived from Afghanistan (16,600), Eritrea (9,200), Syria (8,400), and Somalia (4,300).
Bhargava, Kartikeya Chouhan in race for Budhni by-poll





By Bhavana Aparajita

Shukla

With the resignation of Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan from Budhni Legislative Assembly, speculation about possible BJP candidate from this seat are gaining ground. Although, schedule for elections here has not come yet, so nothing can be said about the candidate. As it has been seen in recent elections that party contested elections at almost every seat in the State as far as Budhni seat is concerned Shivraj Singh Chouhans influence cant be undermine. Within the organisation it is being said that whoever will be the party candidate his/her name will be endorsed by Chouhan. Vidisha is BJPs traditional seat. It was represented by stalwarts like former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee (1991), media baron Ramnath Goenka (1971), and BJP leader late Sushma Swaraj (2009 and 2014). Names of senior BJP leaders and loyalist of Shivraj Singh Chouhans are doing rounds. Notably, Chouhan won five times from Vidisha Lok Sabha constituency before becoming Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh in 2005. Ramakant Bhargava, who was MP from Vidisha Lok Sabha seat, and Union Ministers son Kartikeya Chouhan are among the prominent contenders.

In 2019, BJPs Ramakant had defeated Congress candidate Shailendra Patel by over 5 lakhs votes. Apart from these, many names are doing rounds including Rajendra Singh Rajput, Raghunath Singh Bhati, Union Ministers son Kartikeya Chouhan and Nirmala Barela. Except Kartikeya Chouhan, all the other leaders have held big positions in BJP. Rajendra Singh Rajput is a former MLA who left his seat for Shivraj Singh Chouhan, while former Vidisha MP Ramakant Bhargava, who did not get a Lok Sabha ticket, can now also be given an Assembly ticket. However, it is being said that BJP will make whoever Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan wants as its candidate. Days after Vidisha Lok Sabha seat victory Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan resigns from the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly. Chouhan, who represented Budhni, assures continued dedication to his constituency. After submitting his resignation from the Assembly membership to the speaker, the newly-appointed Union Agriculture Minister released a video message for his constituents in Budhni, where he assured them of his continued service to the best of his ability.

He said, Today I am very emotional... I have tendered my resignation from the membership of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly... I started my public life in Budhni itself... I won the Assembly elections by a record margin and in the Lok Sabha elections, they made me win by a big margin. I have served the people of Budhni with my whole heart... My entire life is dedicated to this love of the public and I will continue to serve them to the best of my ability. Since the announcement of Chouhans name, it can clearly seen that he was campaigning to increase the winning margin. He defeated Congress candidate Bhanupratap Sharma with a mammoth margin of over eight lakh votes from this Lok Sabha constituency. (one of the highest margin in the country after Shankar Lalwani).




Staff Reporter

Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav inaugurated the 3-day School Chalein Hum Abhiyan through virtual mode on Tuesday. Dr Yadav put tilak on the foreheads of the newly-enrolled students. At the district-level Praveshotsav programme, the public representatives welcomed the students in a clean and healthy environment. MLA Abhilash Pandey attended Praveshotsav programme at Government Higher Secondary School, Tamarhai. Under SCH Abhiyan and Cleanliness Drive, the MLA along with other public representatives and staff members cleaned the buildings of primary, middle and higher secondary-level before the initiation of new academic session. The locals highly appreciated this effort whereas school Principal Mukesh Shrivastava and other staff members extended their gratitude towards the MLA.

During first day of the 3-day Abhiyan, the district-level programme was organised at Pandit Lajja Shankar Jha School of Excellence (Model) on Tuesday. The students attended live telecast of address delivered by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav in the State-level Programme held at Bhopal. MP Ashish Dubey, MLA, Ashok Rohani, Mayor, Jagat Bahadur Singh, District Education Officer, Ghanshyam Soni attended the programme. Parent-Teacher meetings will be organised in the schools to discuss about school-level activities and available facilities during the second day. The guardians will receive the letter of School Education Minister, Uday Pratap Singh during the meeting, whereas the students will receive free textbooks.
Ex-Thai PM Thaksin indicted on charge of royal defamation

BANGKOK,

FORMER Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was granted release on bail hours after he was formally indicted on Tuesday on a charge of defaming the countrys monarchy in one of several court cases that have rattled Thai politics. Thaksin, an influential political figure despite being ousted from power 18 years ago, reported himself to prosecutors Tuesday morning and was indicted, Prayuth Bejraguna, a spokesperson for the Office of the Attorney General, said at a news conference. A car believed to be carrying Thaksin arrived at the Criminal Court in Bangkok but he did not come out to meet reporters. His lawyer Winyat Chatmontree told reporters that Thaksin was ready to enter the judicial process. The same car left the court a few hours later after Thaksin was granted bail, though again he did not meet with waiting reporters.

A few hours later, the Criminal Court said Thaksins bail release was approved with a bond worth 500,000 baht (USD 13,000) under a condition that he cannot travel out of Thailand unless he receives permission from the court. A court statement issued later listed several reasons for allowing bail, including Thaksins age, his having a permanent address in Thailand and the lack of an objection from the prosecutor. It added that his passport was confiscated. The law on defaming the monarchy, an offence known as lese majeste, is punishable by three to 15 years in prison. It is among the harshest such laws globally and increasingly has been used in Thailand to punish Government critics. Thaksin, now 74, was ousted by an army coup in 2006 that set off years of deep political polarisation. His opponents, who were generally staunch royalists, had accused him of corruption, abuse of power and disrespecting then-King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who died in 2016.

He was originally charged with lese majeste in 2016 for remarks he made a year earlier to journalists in South Korea. The case was not pursued at that time because he went into exile in 2008 to avoid punishment from other legal judgements he decried as political. He voluntarily returned to Thailand last year and was immediately taken into custody for convictions related to corruption and abuse of power, but served virtually all of his sentence in a hospital rather than prison on medical grounds. He was granted release on parole in February
Naag river cleaning back on Gadkaris agenda





Staff Reporter

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari was back in action as on Tuesday, he took stock of the pending projects, mainly the Naag river project. It was first meeting after Gadkari assumed charge of Road and Transport Ministry in Government of India and it was held at Ravi Bhavan. After being briefed by officials, Gadkari desired Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and Nagpur Metropolitan Region Development Authority (NMRDA) to jointly work and launch the river cleaning project at the earliest. The Rs 2,434 crore project is aimed at pollution abatement and has already been sanctioned by Central Government. Since last six months, NMC has not been able to finalise the Project Consultant who is going to design and supervise implementation of the mega river cleaning project. Gadkari said officials should start the work on pollution abatement and restore the signature river of city to its original, pristine glory.

At the same time, the Union Minister also took review of the proposed renewal of underground sewage network of city. The laying of new trunk lines and pollution abatement of Naag River are inter-linked. Old trunk lines are embedded too deep underground and at many places they are also damaged. So the laying of new network of sewerage lines and the grey water from that pipelines would pass through sewerage treatment plants (STPs) that would come up along side Naag river. The process is necessary to ensure that only treated water empties into Naag River as only then, the foul smell emanating from the river would stop. All the agencies in city should sit together and resolve the over lapping problem of clearances so that work on Naag river project gets going at the earliest, the Minister desired. He also asked about progress on drinking water pipelines and construction of overhead water tanks. The Amrut Yojana is being implemented by NMC with target of covering entire city with piped network. Also Gadkari reviewed Orange City Street development issue and gave necessary instructions on the matter. Civic body officials briefed about the auctioned plots and further plans for development drawn up by them.
New doors to open for students, researchers, investors in semi-conductor, chip-design sector: CM Dr Yadav





Staff Reporter

Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav has said that an MoU being signed by Devi Ahilya University, Indore, for educational and research-oriented activities with Taiwan, the leader in the semi-conductor and chip-design sector in the world, will be beneficial for the students, researchers, and investors of Madhya Pradesh. New doors of progress will open. Devi Ahilya University has signed MoUs with six different universities in Taiwan. The State Government will make every possible effort to strengthen the States relations with Taiwan and ensure that there is no difficulty in implementing the MoU at the Government-level. He was addressing the gathering in an international seminar organised by Devi Ahilya University on environmental management for a sustainable future in Indore virtually from Samatva Bhawan, Bhopal.

The MoU was signed in Indore between Ai-Shu University Taiwan and Devi Ahilya University, Indore, in the virtual presence of the Chief Minister along with the unveiling of the statues of Swami Vivekananda and Bharat Ratna Atal Behari Vajpayee in the university. We must care about the universe as we care about ourselves: Chief Minister Dr Yadav said that organising an international seminar on environmental management for a sustainable future is very important in the present scenario. Our culture inspires us to live in harmony with the environment, our Vedas teach us to care for the universe just as we care for ourselves. Devi Ahilya University Indore has been a leader in innovation and deserves congratulations for this entrepreneurship. Madhya Pradesh is quite prosperous from an environmental point of view.

Along with the Central Government, the State Government is also making efforts at every level to face the worlds environmental challenges. Indian culture has many points for environmental protection and developing environmental sensitivity among people. CM said that to protect the environment, the State Government has pledged to plant 5.5 crore saplings. In this campaign, 51 lakh saplings will be planted in Indore. The campaign conducted last fortnight for the conservation of water sources in the state was important from the point of view of environmental protection and the active participation of the people of the state was commendable. Higher Education Minister Dr Inder Singh Parmar, Indore MP Shankar Lalwani, Vice Chancellor of Devi Ahilya University Dr Renu Jain, President of Ai-Shu University Taiwan Dr Kuang and other officials and subject experts were present.
Of the terrible menace of stray dogs





Vijay Phanshikar

STRAY dogs are scaring people of Nagpur no end. In the past few days, the city reported several instances of stray dogs attacking unsuspecting persons -- men, women, children on foot or on two-wheelers or even in cars. They chase people, attack them, bite them hard, and cause a trauma for which the city administration does not seem to find an answer. Some time ago, the whole country was shocked with an Ahmedabad incident in which the big boss of the Wagh Bakri Tea -- Parag Desai -- was attacked by stray dogs. He tried to escape, lost his balance, and fell with a big thud, with his head hitting something hard or sharp. Almost instantaneously, he was gone, dead ! The city of Nagpur, too, saw similar incidents in the past few days -- though fortunately no death occurred. However, several people have been reported injured by dog attacks and dog bites. In one instance in Kannamwar Nagar, one woman on health-walk was attacked by a bunch of stray dogs who pulled her down on the ground. The dogs climbed on the woman on the ground and had tore into her body in several places. The woman screamed, tried to ward off the dogs -- but to no avail. A few people around rescued the woman and rushed her to the AIIMS. In another case, a woman on bicycle on her way to a house where she worked as a part-time cook, was attacked by 3-4 stray dogs.

The woman panicked and lost her balance and fell on a rock and hurt herself severely. She also had a fracture in a leg, and had to be rushed to hospital for treatment post-haste. Several such cases are being witnessed by the people in almost every area of the sprawling city of Nagpur. Yet, for reasons never known to the common people, the administration has failed to take concrete measures in this regard. There are a few NGOs that take in stray dogs and keep them behind closed compounds and shelters. The administration is also known to be catching some stray dogs and chastising the animals before letting them go off. There are people who suspect that dogs thus chastised become angry animals with their disturbed psychologies. There are some others who do not believe this. The common people like the loosefooter have no way to know what the truth is. But there is every reason to doubt the integrity of the administration on this issue. For, when a city reports such a massive growth in the numbers of stray dogs that often go berserk on the streets posing danger to unsuspecting people over long (and endless) periods of time, then there is a reason to suspect the intentions of the administration on an issue as critical as this one.

The loosefooter has no pre-meditated thought on this issue. He does not want to suggest that the stray dogs need to be shot dead. He realises the importance of a humanitarian angle as well while handling the issue. Yet, it is important to note that if a problem assumes menacing proportions, then it needs to be handled urgently and with a no-nonsense approach that goes beyond stupid ideological stands a few people tend to take. The loosefooter, therefore, insists upon an urgent and concerted action by all stake- holders (which include common people and the ones in the administration). He is conscious that many people treat stray dogs in a cruel manner. That also needs to be stopped immediately. For, when the community of stray dogs realises that some of its members are being treated with cruelty, then they tend to go berserk in collective anger. For, by all standards, a dog is an intelligent animal that understands the negativism or positivism of human response to its presence. With these issues in the mental background, the loosefooter insists upon earliest possible response to the menace by the larger society -- failing which, some other measures may have to be taken by the people. n
Parents to give befitting reply to pvt schools dictatorship





Staff Reporter

The parents and guardians have joined hands against the education mafia and refused to tolerate the dictatorship of private schools. To give befitting reply to the autocracy of private schools, parents and guardians have planned to assemble at Malviya Chowk at 4 pm on Wednesday. According to the parents, to discontinue action taken by the administration with the State Governments support, the private school mafia have planned another conspiracy to lockdown the schools for indefinite period. All these conspiracies are planned to put pressure on the State Government. As per parents, this is the peak time to joining hands and raise voice against the education mafia, as if the private schools would succeed in their ill-intensions not other officer will ever dare to take action in future.

The parents also appealed others to render their support in their campaign and take a sheet mentioned with their complaints. They asked other parents to take pledge to stand against the dictatorial attitude of the school mafia if they want to safeguard their childs future. If the private schools would get rigid with their decision not to open the campus in July, these parents appealed the State Government and administration to cancel their affiliations. The parents have made up their minds to render solid support to District Administration so that the campuses once again transform into the Temple of Education.

It may be mentioned that giving a shock to the education mafia, the Jabalpur district administration has lodged FIR against total 51 persons for recovering illegal school fee of Rs 81.30 crore and books commission of Rs 4.12 crore. The accused included 30 belonging to different schools management, 05 book store owners and owners of 16 publisher houses. Total 20 of the accused have been arrested while rigorous searches were underway to apprehend remaining accused. The administration found huge irregularities in fixation of school fees and increasing unnecessary load of books on children. These irregularities leads to huge corruption in fee hike amounting to Rs 81.30 crore and commission in selling of books worth Rs 4.12 crore.
Plotting of illegal colonies still unaddressed in city





By Ankita Garg

Predicament of unauthorised colonies and their residents have always been one of the hot button issues raised by the social activists and NGOs. Various letters and directions have been sent to the concerned officials but final action on illegal colonisers could not be taken yet. Activists said that no action mode of Government and bureaucrats is the main reason of mushrooming illegal colonies around the state capital Bhopal. About three years back, FIR was lodge against 200 colonisers but final action against them could not be revealed yet. In most of case, coloniser sell the plot and buyers continue to roam around the municipal corporation office for the facilities. FIR was against unauthorised colonies was lodge in Misrod, Kolar, Ratibad, Sukhi Sewania, Khajuri Sadak, Bilkharia, Chola Mandir, Ayodhya Nagar and many other areas.

During year 2023, municipal corporation, urban and rural investment submitted report to the District Collector revealing the construction of 92 illegal colonies in BMC area. After this report, five spots were identified in which builders, colonisers and farmers did not get NoC for map from Town and Country Planning (T&CP) and even there were no permission for colony development. Former Bhopal Collector Ashish Singh wrote a letter to the Police Commissioner for legal action about one year back. In the letter, it was mentioned that builders, colonisers and institutions are selling false plot and advertising wrong information for plots and flats in municipal corporation areas. The collector sought legal action from police station in-charge Ratibad, Ayodhya Nagar, Chola, Eitkhedi and Nishatpura in this regards. District Collector Kaushlendra Vikram Singh said, circle SDMs have been asked to prepare the list after identifying the prominent areas. In case of failing to present the permission and other documents, FIR will be lodged. Detail plan is being made to take action against illegal colonisers. Rashid Noor, social activists said, Many crackdown have been introduced by the administration against illegal plotting of colonies in past but final action could not be taken yet. Every time list get prepare, spots are identified, FIR lodge but no action could be taken.

This is the main reason of mushrooming illegal colonies on Bhopal. Builders and colonisers know the fact that nothing will be held at last so that have high morale of plotting illegal colonies. He further said that during March and April 2024, campaigns against such colonisers was carried out in which various plots and illegal constructions were demolished. Administration team has also registered case and lodge FIR in some cases for plotting illegal colonies but final action could not be taken yet. In past one year more than one thousand illegal colonies have been developed in Bhopal district. Ironically, Government lands are being encroached and no strict action could be taken in these cases yet, added Rashid Noor. Activists said that concern SDMs conducts survey of the land and submit their report. On ground level, agriculture land situated in border areas of district are being encroached and illegal colonies are being plotted. Land mafia is allegedly selling the plots with consent of farmers at higher price but later at the time of construction, the owner who spent additional amount to purchase the land face inconvenience.

He further informed that areas like Berasia Road, Golkhedi, Dupadia, Bhopal Bypass, Imalia, Malikhedi, Semra, Vankheda, Kolua, Arvalia, Parvalia, Indrakhedi, Jagdishpur, Devalkhedi, Shyampur, Mugalia Kot, Acharpura, Dobra, Mubarakpur, Bhauri, Khajuri Sadak, Kolar, Gehukheda, Eitkhedi Chap, Ratibad, Neelbad, Secundarabad, Salaiya, Gandhinagar, Ayodhya Bypass, Anand Nagar, Bilkhiria, Bhojpur Road, Sukhi Sewania, etc places that are adjacent to the urban locality are mushrooming with illegal colonies. On April 7, around two acre of Government land worth Rs 15 crore was sold by land mafia Bhaiya Bhai, Shahbad and Zaheer Ahmad. On March 7, bulldozer razed the illegal colony being developed as Krishna Kunj in Badwai village of Narela Vidhan Sabha by Mohammed Yusuf and Jaiprakash Asnani. Earlier, in December 2022, illegal colony was being developed on 30 acre of Government land in village Adampur Chawani Pathar.
Rs 20,000cr PM releases funds as part of income support scheme for over 9.26 cr farmers





VARANASI,

PRIME Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday released Rs 20,000 crore as part of the income support scheme for more than 9.26 crore farmers. Modi released the amount during the Prime Minister Kisan Samman Sammelan in Varanasi. It was his first visit to his Lok Sabha Constituency after assuming office as the Prime Minister for the third consecutive term. After being sworn-in as Prime Minister, Narendra Modi signed his first file authorising the release of the 17th installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi.

PM Modi released the instalment amounting to more than Rs 20,000 crore to over 9.26 crore farmers under the scheme through Direct Benefit Transfer. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan, and deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak among others at the event.
SHIVAJI MAHARAJ: THE MILITARY MOGUL





By Lt General M K Das, PVSM, SM**,VSM (Retd)

The way Shivaji was able to lure the enemy to fight from the difficult terrain is key to battles at sub unit and unit level. The real test of leadership happens when you make the enemy fight as per your plans. You master the terrain by walking and travelling through it with the map fully itched in your heads. A smart soldier does not need tablets and GPS to navigate; the military sense acquired with your sweat and toil does it.

If India needs to be made independent, then there is only one way out, Fight like Shivaji. -Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose

IN THIS month of June 24, we commemorate 350 years of the coronation of Shivaji Maharaj (coronation in June 1674), the great Maratha warrior and Chhatrapati of Maratha empire. The military warrior in Shivaji (life time 19 February 1630 to 3 April 1680) has motivated generation after generation of military leaders and soldiers. The aim of this piece is to contextualise the remarkable military strategy, operational art and tactics of Shivaji in the present-day scenario. At the young age of 16 years, Shivaji initiated a well-planned military campaign to rebuild Maratha empire with the capture of Fort Torna in Bijapur. He also conquered the forts of Singhgarh, Rajgarh, Chakan and Purandar in quick succession. It is significant that Shivaji mastered military tactics with sheer hard work and exemplary dedication. Such military acumen has to be built in our young boys and girls in the Sainik Schools, Military Schools, NCC and Military Academies. Shivaji also built hundreds of forts spanning every corner of his kingdom over a period of time. Hill forts were key to the defensive layout and acted as the pivot for many successful campaigns. This key strategy of building forts is akin to creating defence infrastructure in the border areas.

It is also important to build and maintain military cantonments and military stations for peacetime training and administration. The regular army of Shivaji was relatively small of 30,000 to 40,000 soldiers comprising a majority of Mavali foot soldiers and backed by mobile cavalry of trained horsemen. The artillery had limited capability but the focus on mobile warfare compensated for the shortcomings. Shivaji was aware of the limitations of his Army and therefore relied on quick attacks in small teams, hitting the vulnerable spots of the Mughal army. Even today, India needs a large chunk of soldiers to guard our borders, with Infantry accounting for the bulk, to hold ground. No amount of technology can substitute a trained soldier. At the tactical level, there are many lessons. But most important is mastery of Shivaji over the terrain comprising of hills, jungles, riverine areas and ravines. The way Shivaji was able to lure the enemy to fight from the difficult terrain is key to battles at sub unit and unit level. The real test of leadership happens when you make the enemy fight as per your plans. You master the terrain by walking and travelling through it with the map fully itched in your heads. A smart soldier does not need tablets and GPS to navigate; the military sense acquired with your sweat and toil does it.

The exploits of Shivaji Maharaj as proponent of Guerrilla Warfare makes him immortal in the annals of military warfighting. It may be noted that the terrorists and militants have exploited this tactic of hit & run to their advantage. The hallmark of such warfare is small team operations, capable of inflicting severe damage to the enemy, particularly to the logistics and communication facilities. Today as we continue to fight the scrouge of terrorism, the military commanders have to fight terrorist like a guerilla; remember the killing of veteran Mughal general Afzal Khan on 10 November 1659 by Shivaji with a concealed tiger claw. The key to success in guerilla warfare is to think like a terrorist and remain ahead of the curve. Shivaji was called Mountain Rat by Aurangzeb which clearly indicates his psychological superiority over the Mughal generals. If we have to look at one military commander who exploited from the basic military surprise tactics to grand strategic deception, then no one except Shivaji qualifies to have done so in his lifetime. Capture of Torna Fort in 1646 taking advantage of the confusion prevailing in the Bijapur Sultanate is a classic example of tactical surprise. Shivaji was able to convince the Mughals of his superior fighting capabilities right from 1657 in Ahmednagar and Junnar, forcing Mughal emperor Aurangzeb to send a massive army of 1,50,000 under Shaista Khan in 1660.

The ultimate defeat of this powerful army after a daring Shivaji led night attack on the enemy camp on 5 April 1663 which seriously wounded Shaista Khan is part of military folklore. As a forward-looking military leader, Shivaji painstakingly built his navy from 1657 onwards. Shivaji paid particular attention to the coastal defences by capturing forts along the Konkan coastline, Sindhudurg being one such marine fort. Knowing the limitation of Marathas to fight land-based battles, Shivaji employed Portuguese sailors besides local fishermen to man his naval fleet. With a fleet of more than 200 warships, Shivaji demonstrated the maritime power to his adversaries. The futures wars will require a powerful Indian Navy, as would be evident if we put the map of India upside down. Instead of the Himalayas in the north, we will see Indian Ocean, flanked by Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. In an era when military structures were not formal, Shivaji exhibited great skills in creating military organisations in the ground forces, navy and at fort level.

The small teams were led by Havildars with a suitable mix of infantry or cavalry. Many of such structures are followed in India till date. Though a profound military leader, Shivaji also proved to be a great administrator and provided quality governance to his empire with focus on religious tolerance and sense of justice. He promoted Marathi as the working language instead of Persian and Arabic. Shivajis royal seal was in Sanskrit and he commissioned a team to chronicle Rajavyavahara kosha in Sanskrit, the treasure of state usage in 1677. It would be a most befitting tribute to the legend of Shivaji Maharaj, if Indias National Security Strategy Doctrine is documented in Sanskrit. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharajs greatest legacy was to successfully lay the foundation for the formidable Maratha empire, which ultimately led to the collapse of the Mughal empire. Both in the warcraft and statecraft, he proved to be a nemesis for the Mughals. As India aspires to be a developed nation by 2047, Shivaji remains the most iconic Military Mogul who continues to lord over the psyche of the leaders and the led. n
By Vikas Vaidya

Vidarbhas first skin bank, that started about 10 years ago, has been non-functional for the past 5 years. There are a lot of cases of over 40% burn injuries where skin bank can give a new lease of life to the patients. Closure of the skin bank is being considered as a huge blow to the region. Dr Samir Jahagirdar, noted Plastic Surgeon, took the initiative, taking cue from his guru Padma Shri Dr Ashok Gupta. Dr Gupta volunteered for such skin bank in Mumbai. Dr Jahagirdar got the support from Rotary Club of Nagpur and Orange City Hospital and Research Institute (OCHRI). With the help of then Director of OCHRI Dr Anup Marar, under the guidance of Chairman Uday Bhaskar Nair, the bank ran for six years during which 35 donations were done. Of those skin donations, over 60 persons who suffered from burn injuries were benefited. The skin bank was the fourth one in India at the time. Now, the number of skin banks has gone beyond 26.

Unfortunately after running for six years, the skin bank facility was shifted to the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH). The reason of shifting was cited as skin donations getting reduced, making the maintainance of the hospital difficult. The hospital had about 10,000 sq cm of donated skin preserved, all of which was utilised for patients and the facility was eventually shut down. The equipments were shifted to the GMCH. The hospital had an advanced burns facility and had treated the 25-year-old lecturer who was set ablaze in Hinganghat, who later died of her injuries.

Dr Surendra Patil, Head of Department of Plastic Surgery at GMCH told The Hitavada, The skin bank has become non-functional. We too know the importance of the skin bank. We had a talk with our Dean. His idea is to house it in new burn ward that is being planned.
The chief executives of Axiata Group, Jio Platforms and Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison expressed great confidence in AI and digitalisation for delivery of growth for emerging market operators and economies.

Speaking at Digital Transformation World in Copenhagen today (June 19), Axiata Group CEO and Executive Director, Dr Hans Wijayasuriya (pictured, below), said the telecommunications industry needs to look past its mistakes of not adopting new technologies fast enough, and seize the opportunities in AI.

Wijayasuriya said the industry needs to move from connectivity to a world where we sell end-to-end solutions as there is another trillion dollars up for grabs, essentially doubling the size of the connectivity space.

But the CEO warned the telecoms industry cannot chase growth without forging partnerships with hyperscalers, and with each other, to develop APIs and micro-services at scale.

It is not only about partnering with hyperscalers, it also means partnering with your own competition in market, other telcos, ouch, quipped Wijayasuriya.

It is very difficult for telcos to think of a world where we hold hands and partner within market. But ladies and gentlemen, if the telco industry continues down the path of not recognising that we are allies in this ecosystem, and not the primary competition we need to address, then you may as well stay at the API level and forget about the $1 trillion that's out there, warned Wijayasuriya.

Gen AI for growth

To showcase Axiatas path to effectively tapping into Gen AI for chase growth, Wijayasuriya detailed that Axiata is using Gen AI to orchestrate thousands of microservices and APIs, presenting great opportunity ahead of us said Wijayasuriya.

TM Forum CEO Nik Willetts said in his keynote speech that only a handful of operators have used Gen AI effective enough to boost bottom line.

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison President Director and CEO, Vikram Sinha (main picture, middle) said Gen AI is democratising innovation at a very rapid pace, help Indonesia grow in GDP and accelerate the nations target of becoming a top five global economy by 2045.

Sinha warned changing internal cultures is key to effectively adopting AI. Every dollar you invest on technology, you back it up with $1 investment on your people. AI will only work for you when you really invest on your people, said Sinha.

IOHs boss concurred with Wijayasuriyas point of forging stronger alliances among telcos, as this is how well be able to create larger impact.

Taking the stage next was Jio Platforms CEO Kiran Thomas (main picture, right), who stated that digital technologies such as AI has the power to aid India in overcoming its structural limitations to grow its economy.

AI brings a smarter way to build software, it makes everything that we do in the era of software and data that much smarter, said Thomas.

But the real opportunity lies in how AI enables the very practices of building better software, said Thomas.

AI will be leveraged to tap a variety of growth opportunities in India, the CEO said. He highlighted how there are only 13 million premises connected to the internet, and this number will accelerate to 200 million. The Internet of Things was another mentioned as an engine of growth in the future.
Malaysias data centre gold rush continues as Telekom Malaysia (TM) and Nxera, the regional data centre arm of Singtels Digital InfraCo unit, announced on Tuesday they have formed a joint venture to develop data centres in the country.

The first project under the new JV is a hyperscale AI-ready data centre campus in Johor. The data centre will initially support 64MW of capacity, and is designed to scale up to 200MW as demand increases. TM said the facility will be a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified green building.

TM said the data centre will be capable of supporting large computing and AI capabilities required by customers such as cloud hyperscalers and GPU-as-a-Service providers. It also features technologies like liquid cooling to efficiently handle high-power density workloads and operations.

TM said the campus location in Iskandar Puteri, which is 16 km from Singapore, gives it close access to TM and Digital InfraCos subsea cable links between Singapore and Malaysia, enabling it to support demand from both countries. The planned new campus will be the largest to date for both TM and Nxera.

The JV  which marks Nxeras first move into the Malaysian market  will leverage Nxeras regional data centre development expertise with TMs extensive domestic network infrastructure and experience with offering wholesale data, connectivity, data centre and platform solutions, as well as the subsea capacity of both companies.

Customers of the new data centre in Johor will also be able to tap into services like Singtels Paragon cloud orchestration platform and upcoming GPU-as-a-Service, enabling them to orchestrate AI workloads in a multi-network and multi-cloud environment.

TM brings the largest domestic network infrastructure, extensive international subsea cable systems and the largest interconnected DC in Malaysia, a solid backbone for this project, said TM Group CEO Amar Huzaimi Md Deris in a statement. This will serve as a catalyst for high performance computing and lay a solid foundation for the future advancement of cloud and AI applications.

With our joint industry expertise and strong track record, we will build and operate one of the most efficient, sustainable and connectivity-rich data centres in Malaysia, said Bill Chang, CEO of Nxera and Digital InfraCo. In addition to data centres, we will be expanding the submarine cable connectivity between Singapore and Johor to enhance digital connectivity. Our joint venture will also partner institutes of higher learning in Malaysia to nurture talent for our projects and the industry.

Nxera is currently developing three new AI-ready data centres in Southeast Asia in addition to 62MW of existing capacity in Singapore. This includes a new 58MW data centre in Tuas, Singapore, and data centres with partners in Indonesia and Thailand. Nxera said its total pipeline capacity is set to increase to more than 200MW in the region in the next three years.

TM currently operates seven data centres across Malaysia, including two core data centres in Klang Valley and Johor. The operator said its participation in the Asia Link Cable Systems (ALC) subsea club cable  which links Hong Kong and Singapore, with branches connecting Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei Darussalam and Hainan, China  will add another 24 Tbps of international capacity for its data centres in Johor when the cable goes live in the third quarter of next year.

Malaysia  like numerous other countries in Southeast Asia  has been aggressively pursuing demand for data centres in the region to support national digital transformation ambitions. DC Bytes 2024 Global Data Centre Index names Johor Bahru as the fastest growing data centre market in the region.

The country has seen a blitz of new data centre projects in the past year alone. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia approved RM114.7 billion (US$24.3 billion) worth of investments in data centres and cloud services between 2021 and 2023.
More space-related announcements have recently been made, this time by Zimbabwe and Namibia, underlining the continuing growth of satellite communications initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa.

Zimbabwe is set to launch its second satellite, ZimSat-2, in November after technical issues  the primary payload was not ready  delayed the original 26 May launch.

ZimSat-2 will feature advanced sensors and imaging devices, supporting applications such as mineral exploration, environmental hazard monitoring, and management of droughts and human settlements.

Pre-launch tests for the new satellite are reportedly complete, and the satellite is now awaiting the appropriate launch window in November.

Zimbabwe aims to introduce three additional earth observation satellites in the coming years, building on the capabilities of its first satellite, ZimSat-1, launched in November 2022.

According to the Bulawayo24 online news service, ZimSat-1 currently aids in monitoring drought conditions, mine mapping, and other data-driven activities from the Mazowe Ground Station.

Also in Southern Africa, the ITWeb Africa news service reports that private equity fund manager Eos Capital, which manages the Namibia Infrastructure Development and Investment Fund (NIDIF), has been given permission to start the Namibia Space Port project.

Described by South Africas Engineering News as a satellite ground segment complex, the Namibia Space Port project is led by Q-KON Namibia, a Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN)-licensed satellite service provider, which is reportedly poised to become a major player in the rapidly expanding low earth orbit (LEO) business as the Namibia Space Port develops.

More specifics about how this project will benefit Namibia are not easy to find, but Engineering News says the new facility will focus mainly on ground gateway terminal hosting, Earth observation (EO) downlink services, and tracking, telemetry and control (TT&C).

Dr Dawie de Wet, Group CEO of Q-KON, says: "We are honoured to lead this transformative initiative that will not only enhance Namibia's technological prowess but will also contribute to the growth of the LEO industry in Sub-Saharan Africa."
Award-winning journalist Nicole Noren has been chosen to speak at the Lauren McCluskey Foundations Safety at Sunset: Washington event in September.

Noren is an acclaimed director, producer and journalist for ESPN. Shes won six Emmys, two Edward R. Murrow awards and a Peabody, according to a Tuesday news release from the foundation.

Shes been on a pursuit of truth and justice throughout her extensive career, producing more than 50 investigative reports and short documentaries for ESPN focusing on gender-based violence, education and social issues, according to the news release.

Her work as an investigative reporter has illustrated the impact media has in shaping public discourse and promoting societal change, according to the news release.

Noren and investigative reporter T.J. Quinn won the 2023 National Award for Education Reporting for their documentary film LISTEN, exploring the response to Lauren McCluskeys murder, according to the news release.
A Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) central team faced protests while listening to the complaints of displaced and attacked workers. On Tuesday afternoon in Amtala, South 24-Parganas, a section of BJP workers and supporters stopped the car of the central team member and former Tripura chief minister, Biplab Deb and protested.

They expressed their anger against Abhijit Sardar, the president of the BJPs Diamond Harbour organizational district. A section of BJP workers, who were victims of post-election violence, have taken refuge at the house of the defeated BJP MP candidate from Diamond Harbour, Abhijit Das (Bobby). On Tuesday, the central team members started their area inspection after holding a press conference at the party office in Bishnupur, within the same district. According to BJP sources, their next destination was Altaberia. However, on the way, party workers and supporters stopped Biplabs car. Some women requested him to get out of the car. Along with expressing their anger against the organizational district president, they also claimed that no attention was paid to the attacked workers after the election results were announced on 4 June.

The protesters also accused Abhijit Sardar of having an understanding with the Trinamul Congress. Since the announcement of the Lok Sabha election results, incidents of unrest have emerged from various parts of the state. In some places, Trinamul Congress workers were being attacked, while in others, the opposition was being targeted. The BJP alleged that Trinamul Congress miscreants are attacking their workers and supporters. To assess the situation of this post-election violence, a BJP delegation arrived in the state on Sunday. The team includes former Tripura chief minister and MP Biplab Deb and BJP MP and former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. On Monday, the team members went to Cooch Behar and spoke with the attacked BJP workers and supporters.

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Notably, both Amtala and Bishnupur fall under the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency. The MP for this constituency is Abhishek Banerjee, the national general secretary of the Trinamul Congress, who defeated the BJP candidate by over seven lakh votes in the Lok Sabha election. After the results were announced, the BJP had alleged that their workers and supporters were attacked by Trinamul in several areas within the Diamond Harbour constituency. Now, while trying to listen to the complaints of the attacked workers and supporters in Abhisheks constituency, the BJP central team itself faced protests.
While greenery is good for mankind and to reduce earths temperature, it at times can also be a hurdle to life in the city. Durgapur residents are finding it the hard way as the city is facing frequent blackouts due to uprooting of trees or branches breaking and falling on electric poles. With the electric poles being affected and disruption in electric wires, power distribution authorities are in for trouble in between the parched summer days.

Why are the trees in Asansol and Durgapur, where more plantation is required, posing hurdles to power supply so frequently, the residents are trying to find out. Is it because of human error or soil erosion or desperately gravitropism of the casually planted trees, they wonder.

Gravitropism is an integral part of a plant, its growth orienting its strong foundation on the surface.

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Hundreds of uprooted trees and their branches fall on the power transmission and distribution networks causing severe interruption to power supply for prolonged hours in several sectors in the district. It was evident after last Wednesdays gusty winds.

Almost 70 per cent of supply though could be restored by midnight, it took another 20 hours to bring respite for the rest of the localities. Sohail Hossen, divisional manager, West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company in Durgapur said, Trees falling on the live power networks has become a perennial crisis here these days. We maintain regular trimming of the branches but the strong winds took a severe toll on our services. In his command area only, 98 big trees were uprooted, besides, 30 in Durgapur Steel Township areas. The average 4kmph wind speed suddenly escalated to 60kmph accompanied by repeated gusting thrusts from the south east during a norwester inviting the menacing trouble, opined Sourabh Chatterjee, SDM, Durgapur.

Trees with shallow root systems are always vulnerable to the external stresses like strong wind, heavy rainfall but the city was surprised how and why wind with much lower intensity can be catastrophic and dismantle the trees. At 47 to 54kmph wind speed, light structural damages in trees occur, but at 55 to 63kmph the entire tree can be uprooted with considerable damage, said Prof Uma Dey, a Botanist in Andal, adding, Soil erosion alongside lack of gravitation due to desperate digging surrounding root system are responsible for weakening stem and root system of plants here. Besides, large codominant stems, improper pruning are more vulnerable to wind damage, she opined.

Shallow roots provide less resistance against the wind forces, but external injuries caused by human activities or disease uproot trees easily, stated Anupam Khan, DFO, Durgapur. He said, After receiving complaints of human interference, wed forwarded letters to the Durgapur Steel Plant authorities, the Durgapur Municipal Corporation and the Asansol Durgapur Development Authority to strengthen vigil on this. Trees becoming top-heavy due to surge of saps or dearth of proper trimming fall quickly in storm-hit areas.

The WBSEDCL complained that heavily burdened tops of old trees have lent maximum trouble for the power transmission and distribution networks. The civic body doesnt bother to trim trees, said the officials. Weve restrained voluntary efforts after the forest department issued a structure to us last year about felling of trees, said Dharmendra Yadav, administrator, DMC. He added, Weve however extended logistic support to the power department for the purpose.

Irregularities in trimming have also intensified the problem, a section of the power department officials claimed. The trees touching the bare conductors of high-voltage power networks inevitably invite short-circuit. The divisional forest authorities allowed DSP for trimming of 200 trees and the WBSEDCL to trim 154 trees, recently. The West Burdwan district accommodates forest patches of 4963.207 hectares, which is just 4 per cent of the required forest zone to combat air pollution. The city requires at least 33 per cent green coverage, the forest officials said.
Chief minister Mamata Banerjee took a significant step by visiting the home of Nagendra Ray, also known as Ananta Maharaj, who is a Rajya Sabha member from the BJP. While there, she was engaged in a short discussion with him.

Following her prayer at Madan Mohan Temple today, Ms Banerjee decided to meet with the Rajya Sabha member, Mr Ray.

Ms Banerjee refused to comment on her meeting with Mr Ray. But, Mr Ray seemed very happy and openly shared his contentment with the chief ministers visit and compliments after visiting his palace. He described her visit as a courtesy visit and a goodwill gesture. When asked about the possibility of joining the Trinamul Congress, Nagendra Ray simply mentioned that the chief minister only had a cup of green tea and gave him a shawl as a gift.

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It has been reported by political insiders that Mr Ray indirectly assisted TMC during the Lok Sabha election.

During the meeting, Mr Ray shared his proposals with Ms Banerjee as a five-member NDA team was visiting Cooch Behar, where BJP party members had reportedly fled their residences due to violence following the election results. The team arrived in Cooch Behar the day before.

Today, Ms Banerjee visited Madan Mohan Temple in Cooch Behar to offer her prayers. This was a significant moment as her long-awaited goal of regaining the lost seat had finally been achieved.

Mamata Banerjee conveyed her thanks to the residents of Cooch Behar for helping her party reclaim the Cooch Behar parliamentary constituency.

The CM visited numerous injured passengers who were receiving medical care at North Bengal Medical College and Hospital.

The chief minister initially planned to visit the site of the train collision. However, unforeseen circumstances arose and she had to change her itinerary yesterday. As a result, she decided to go to Cooch Behar and fulfil her commitment of visiting the Madan Mohan Temple and making an offering.

I expressed gratitude to the people of Cooch Behar on behalf of Maa Mati Manush. As a well-wisher, I offered prayers to Modan Mohan for the well-being of all, regardless of their caste, religion or community. I appreciate their immense support towards our party during the LS election, said Ms Banerjee said.

Speaking to reporters, CM Ms Banerjee has stated that the temple and its guest house in the Cooch Behar district will be overseen by the district magistrate.

The town of Cooch Behar is a charming heritage site and efforts are being made to enhance its beauty. However, due to the Lok Sabha election, work on heritage projects was put on hold. The administration will resume working on these projects soon, she added.

Following her prayer, the CM left for Kolkata, sources said.
The West Bengal government on Tuesday submitted a report on post Lok Sabha poll violence to a Division Bench of the Calcutta High Court.

The report submitted at the Division Bench of Justice Kausik Chanda and Justice Apurba Sinha Roy stated that the office of the director general of police received 560 complaints of post-poll violence from June 6 to June 12.

Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly Suvendu Adhikari along with an NGO had filed a case in the Calcutta High Court over the post-poll violence.

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Based on those complaints, the Bengal Police filed 107 FIRs.

While 92 complaints had no merit, preliminary investigations by the police in 114 plaints revealed that no offense had been committed, the report stated.

As per the report, 88 complaints were repetitions of the plaints made earlier, while 18 complaints had no connection with post-poll violence.

In the case of three complaints, the sender was anonymous.

The remaining 138 complaints are in the preliminary investigation stage and in those cases necessary legal steps will be taken after the initial probe is completed, the report stated.

This report was submitted by the DG of state police on 14 June in view of the courts order regarding those two cases. The case came up for hearing on Tuesday. But the hearing was not held as the report was not available with all the parties. The case will be heard next Thursday.

On 6 June, the high court had said that the Centre and the state should work together for the sake of public safety to prevent violence. State police DG Sanjay Mukherjee was asked by the high court to receive complaints regarding post-poll violence through email.
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) of Odishas Puri circle is set to carry out the inspection and conservation of Ratna Bhandar (treasury) of 12th century Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri during the upcoming Rath Yatra festival of the revered deities.

We are waiting for permission from the high court-appointed Committee to carry out the work after the opening of both the outer and inner chambers of the Ratna Bhandar. The previous government had informed the court to allow us to take up the repair work during the Rath Yatra. The inner chamber which houses precious items has to be emptied to enable ASI to do their job hassle-free, Dibishada Brajasundar Garnayak, superintending archaeologist of the ASIs Puri circle told The Statesman.

The ASI will carry out the work as entrusted upon it by Orissa High Court. We found structural weakness in the outer chamber. The previous State Government had informed the Orissa High Court through an affidavit to open the Ratna Bhandar during the Rath Yatra to enable us to undertake the necessary inspection and repair work. We are prepared for it. ASI is waiting for a go-ahead signal from the 12-member committee constituted by the High Court, Garnayak informed.

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The ASI last inspected the temple in 2018 on directions of the high court and found structural weakness in the outer chamber of the temple. The data regarding its construction or inner dimensions are not available.

However, it appears to have been built around the 13th-14th century. It is integrally built with the northern fascia of the Jagamohan wall. Its a bland structure, with whitewashing on the surface. However, the plaster seems to have become weak at some places as noticed from the hollow sound upon tapping the surface. The Committee could examine only the exterior, the ASI had informed in an affidavit submitted earlier this year to the high court.

The Ratna Bhandar comprises outer and inner chambers. The outer chamber is used for storage of the day-to-day ornaments of the deities  Jagannath, Subhadra, and Balabhadra  while the inner chamber is earmarked for storage of precious gold jewelry, gems, pearls, and rare diamonds apart from silver and other decorative items of the temples three presiding deities which are not used for deities daily rituals.

A huge controversy erupted as the key of the inner chamber was found to be missing in 2018 when the Orissa High Court ordered an inspection.

It may be mentioned here that the Odisha government, acting on HCs directives, had constituted a 12-member committee headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Arijit Pasayat for supervision of incentivisation of the valuables including jewelry stored in the Ratna Bhandar.

It may also be recalled here that the government had constituted a judicial inquiry into the non-availability of keys of the Ratna Bhandar on June 5, 2018, as the mysterious disappearance of treasure keys had triggered a furor.

Later, a 16-member team that had entered the Ratna Bhandar on April 4, 2018, for scrutiny of its physical conditions had to inspect its inner chambers from outside an iron grill with searchlights as the keys were missing.

Priceless gold jewelry, gems, pearls, and rare diamonds apart from silver and other decorative items of the temples three presiding deities  Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra  are reported to have been treasured in the Ratna Bhandar. All these treasures have poured in from devotees from various parts of the country as tokens of reverence to Lord Jagannath.

The findings of the judicial inquiry into the missing key episode of the Ratna Bhandar (treasury) of the revered Puri Shree Jagannath Temple shrine have been submitted to the State Government. However, the previous government had kept it under wraps and shied away from making it public. The emotive issue was fully capitalized by the BJP during poll campaigning to put the previous government on the back foot
Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Wednesday chaired an emergency meeting with heads of all major hospitals of the city on heat stroke patients, the city government official said.

Bharadwaj directed the hospitals to scale up the beds for patients with heat related illnesses and said that a fresh advisory would be advertised through radio and newspapers.

In a post on X, the health minister said, Chaired an emergency meeting with heads of all major hospitals regarding Heat stroke patients.

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The Delhi Police beat officers/patrolling teams will be requested to help in shifting homeless to shelter homes in case they are lying under open sky, he said further in the post.

Department is sending communication to Delhi Police Commissioner to ask their patrolling teams to call Ambulances in case their teams spot destitute is running high fever or sick. Hospitals to scale up the beds for patients of heat related illnesses. Circular issued to Hospitals & CATS Ambulance service. Fresh advisory to be advertised in Radio and Newspapers, Bharadwaj said.

Amidst prevalent heat-wave conditions in Delhi, the LNJP Hospital reported that nine patients were admitted on Wednesday with heatstroke. Of them, four are currently on ventilator support due to critical conditions and multi-organ failure caused by heatstroke.

He added that on June 16, a patient died due to heatstroke.

Currently, nine patients are admitted in LNJP hospital. Out of the nine patients, four are on ventilator support due to their critical condition and multi-organ failure due to heatstroke. On June 16, a patient died due to heatstroke, Medical Director of LNJP Hospital, Suresh Kumar, told a news agency,

Further, the medical director of LNJP Hospital advised children and the elderly to avoid going outdoors in extreme heat and recommends consuming 4-5 litres of water a day to prevent heatstroke.

Timely treatment of heatstroke patients is very important else it can also lead to multiple organ failure. To prevent heatstroke, an umbrella or cloth covering on the head should be used. Children and the elderly should avoid venturing outdoors in extreme heat conditions. Consumption of 4-5 litres of water a day can prevent heatstroke. Our nurses and staff are trained to identify heat stroke patients, he told the news agency.

Meanwhile, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital has reported five deaths due to suspected heat stroke while at least 12 people, mostly daily wage labourers, are in critical condition battling for their lives on ventilator support.

According to Dr Ajay Shukla, medical superintendent of the RML Hospital, 11 people were admitted to the hospital on Tuesday with heat stroke, the highest reported in a single day this season. He said that since the beginning of the heatwave about a month or so ago at least 45 people have been admitted with heat-related ailments till date.

A total of 22 patients have been admitted to the hospital and five have lost their lives due to suspected heatstroke. 12 patients are on ventilators and in critical situation. The majority of patients are labourers who work in extreme conditions, the hospital official said.

He also added that the main reason for the deaths was a delay in reaching the hospital. So far we have received a total of 45-50 patients and around 7 people have died since the beginning of the heatwave situation, he said.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said heat wave to severe heat wave conditions are likely to continue over many parts of North India on Wednesday and gradually abate thereafter due to an approaching western disturbance towards northwest India.

According to the IMD, heatwave conditions prevailed in most parts of Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh; in some parts of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and north Madhya Pradesh.
With the US lawmakers on Wednesday meeting the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama at Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, the issue of Tibet is back on the global agenda.

The US Congressional delegation was headed by Foreign Affairs Committee of US House, Chairman Micheal McCaul that also met the Tibetan Government-In-Exile.

While China is not happy with the US showing solidarity with the Tibetans, this visit comes ahead of US President Joe Biden signing the Tibetan Resolve Act soon to resolve the Tibet dispute.

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This law puts pressure on China to hold talks with Tibetan officials to sort out the issue, as dialogue to resolve the issue had been stalled since 2010.

The US has been supporting the rights of the Tibetan community to practice their religion and culture and has charged China with violation of human rights.

More than the freedom of Tibet, the Dalai Lama is seeking for a middle path for autonomy of Tibet.

Dalai Lama, 88, who is the rallying figure for the cause of Tibet, while interacting with a high-level US Congressional delegation, said: As soon as wake up thinking Buddhas teachings mainly altruism. And thinking about the whole world, we are same human being. We all have same right and this world belongs to humanity. We should take care of this world irrespective of what religion or tradition the people of the world should be peaceful, happy, thats our goal.

The Dalai Lama has been living in exile at McLeodGanj in Dharamshala ever since he fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in Tibet.

MaCaul said that the US aims to take forward the resolution of the Tibetan issue.

It is still my hope that one day the Dalai Lama and his people will return to Tibet in peace, he said.

Former Speaker of House of Representatives and top democrat Nancy Pelosi had earlier visited Dharamshala 2008, attacking China had said His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the President of China, youll be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything.

Meanwhile, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) has thanked the delegation.

Sikyong Penpa Tsering of CTA said, The Resolve Tibet Act is very important to us and you have taken a lot of energy to get this through the House and through the Senate.

He also acknowledged the contribution of Hollywood actor for his efforts to strengthen the Tibetan cause.
After Shaitaan, Ajay Devgn and R Madhavan will reunite for De De Pyaar De 2. The film promises to be a hilarious ride, blending humor and drama on screen. It is the sequel to the 2019 rom-com, with Madhavan playing Rakul Preet Singhs father in the upcoming installment. Ajay Devgn will reprise his role as Singhs love interest. The plotline features a humorous clash between Devgn and Madhavan as Rakul gets embroiled between the two.

Initially, Anil Kapoor was considered for the sequel; however, the role eventually went to Madhavan. A source close to Hindustan Times revealed, The plot of the film centers on the hilarious one-upmanship between Ajay and Madhavan, as Rakul dates a man older than her father in the film. With Anil, that plotline wouldnt have had the desired impact, but with Madhavan, it fits the narrative aptly.

The source also confirmed that Tabu, who played Ajay Devgns wife in the first film, will not return for the sequel. Directed by Anshul Sharma, filming is currently underway in Mumbai.

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The first installment of De De Pyaar De followed Devgns character Aashish, who is dating Ayesha (Rakul Preet), a girl half his age. He introduces her to his ex-wife and children, who struggle to accept the new relationship. The second part will potentially focus on the other side of the story, highlighting how Ayeshas family reacts to her relationship with an older man.

The upcoming film is slated for release on May 1, 2025, and is expected to take the audience on a ride filled with humor, wit, and drama. The dynamic duo of Devgn and Madhavan is set to bring an electric energy to the film, given their previous successful collaboration. Netizens are curious to see how the new chapter of Ayesha and Aashishs love story will unfold with this new challenge.
Melinda French Gates recently shared insights into her private separation from Bill Gates and her fulfilling life post-divorce. While their public announcement came in May 2021, the couple had already been living apart, alternating stays at their family home since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In her candid interview published on June 18, Melinda opened up about the privacy this arrangement afforded them during a challenging time.

Discussing the period leading up to their divorce, Melinda explained, The pandemic allowed us the privacy we needed to navigate our separation. I chose to live separately first before making the final decision to divorce. Handling everything privately, while still being there for the kids and making crucial life decisions, was a blessing.

Melinda French Gates acknowledged the difficulties of going through a divorce, describing it as hard and painful. However, she emphasized that her life has since taken a positive turn. Now, the philanthropist finds joy and excitement in her newfound independence and the new home she cherishes.

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I live in a wonderful neighborhood now. I can walk to little stores, the drugstore, and even restaurants, she shared. I absolutely love it.

As she approaches her 60th birthday in August, Melinda is looking forward to the future with enthusiasm. The mother of three is eager to embrace new experiences and continue her lifelong learning journey.

Turning 60 feels like a milestone, she reflected. I want to surround myself with inspiring people and travel, ensuring I keep learning because the world is constantly evolving. Im free to pursue my work and passions in any way I choose.

Melindas reflections highlight her resilience and optimism as she navigates this new chapter of her life.
The Netflix film Maharaj marks the debut of Amir Khans son, Junaid Khan, and has been the center of a legal row for a while now. On June 13, a day before the film was slated to release, the Gujarat High Court ordered an interim stay on the film in response to a petition filed by followers of the Vaishnavite Pushtimarg sect. On Tuesday, June 18, the HC extended the stay by one day. The film is based on the life of journalist Karsandas Mulji and the famous 1862 Maharaj Libel case, which remains a landmark lawsuit to date.

Amid the ongoing legal row, Narendra Modis comment on the journalist in 2010, when he was serving as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, has been making rounds on the internet.

The row started when the petitioners objected to the release of the film on the grounds that excerpts of the movie contain scandalous and defamatory language, which affects the Pushtimarg sect as a whole and that the release of the movie is likely to incite feelings of hatred and violence against the Pushtimarg sect, which would be in breach of the code of ethics under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021.

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Going back to the 1862 case, a complaint was filed against Karsandas Mulji over an article he published exposing the exploitation of female devotees by religious leaders. His article titled Hinduono Asal Dharma ane Haalna Pakhandi Mato (The Primitive Religion of the Hindus and the Present Heterodox Opinions) in his Gujarati weekly newspaper Satyaprakash attracted the ire of several priests.

Muljis article accused the Maharajs of engaging in sexual relations with their female devotees, several of whom were married. He contested that the behavior of these religious leaders was adulterous.

In response to the article, Jadunathji Brijratanji Maharaj, one of the most prominent and powerful religious leaders, filed a libel case against Karsandas Mulji. The Maharaj Libel Case stirred a lot of controversy and debate in Bombay and ended up becoming a landmark case in the judiciary. After considering all testimonies and materials, the court dismissed the journalist.

In his judgment, Justice Joseph Arnould wrote, It is not a question of theology that has been before us! It is a question of morality. The principle for which the defendant and his witnesses have been contending is simply this: That what is morally wrong cannot be theologically right. The case gained prominence as it created a landmark history of freedom of the press in India.

In 2010, Narendra Modi, in his blog titled Saluting Freedom & Truth, wrote, Social reformist and journalist Karsandas Muljis newspaper too was titled Satya-Prakash. He also added, Saanch ne ave na Aanch, Satya Chhapre Chadi ne Pokarshe, Satya No Jay, emphasizing the power of truth (There is no ignominy in speaking the truth. Truth will out. Truth triumphs).

In the ongoing row, on Tuesday, senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi, on behalf of Netflix, argued, We cannot eradicate legal history whether we like the judgment or not. Picturization of such facts of legal history cannot be curtailed or restrained. Dont watch the movie if you dont like it.
Two Pakistani terrorists were killed and a jawan of the special operations group (SOG) injured on Wednesday in an ongoing encounter with security forces in Hadipira area in North Kashmirs Sopore.

The gunfight started in the morning when terrorists fired at a joint team of security forces that had launched a search operation in the area.

The operation is continuing and further details are awaited.

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Reports said that a SOG personnel was injured during the encounter. He was rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Meanwhile, in a major success, police in the Doda district of Jammu have arrested Mohammed Raffi who had last evening fled with the AK-47 assault rifle of a special police officer (SPO) from the Pul Doda area.

Police said that the SPO Safdar Hussain of the STF Post had taken lift in the vehicle of Mohammad Raffi. Hussain got down to buy a water bottle near Pul Doda leaving his weapon in the vehicle and Mohammad Raffi fled from there.

A search operation was launched by the police and the vehicle of Mohammad Raffi was found abandoned. However, he was later nabbed and the weapon recovered.
The AAPs youth wing staged a protest outside the residence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan here on Wednesday , alleging rigging in the 2024 NEET-UG exam.

Members of the youth held the demonstration under the leadership of AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha and demanded resignation of Pradhan.

Addressing the members, Jha said, The issue of rigging in the NEET exam has been raised not only by parents and children but also by all the leaders of the AAP. On Tuesday also, the AAP protested on this issue and has been holding press conferences continuously.

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Today, through this state protest, we wanted to meet Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and tell him that there has been rigging in the NEET exam and there is evidence of this. Why is the exam not being canceled after investigating it? What was the fault of the children for whom this was the last attempt in the NEET exam that they became victims of this paper leak?, he said.

The AAP MLA demanded a Supreme Court monitored probe into the matter.

We want a committee to be formed under the supervision of a retired Supreme Court judge to investigate the NEET exam scam so that the children who have given the exam can be assured that if they prepare on the merit list, their selection will be certain. We wanted to tell all these issues to the Education Minister. But we were stopped by the police, he said.
STATEMENT OF SEN NANCY BINAY

on the ramming of PH supply vessel near Ayungin Shoal, WPS

I strongly condemn the unnecessary, insensitive and irresponsible action made by the Chinese Coast Guard on June 17 by patently ramming our mission ship near Ayungin Shoal.

Mahirap paniwalaan na ang supply ship pa ang may sala samantalang maraming ulat ng mga katulad na insidente ng pagbangga ng CCC sa ating mga bangka maging mga sasakyang-dagat ng mga foreign-flagged vessels.

I call on the Chinese Coast Guard to exercise restraint and urge them to be good friends and neighbors with the Philippines as our country is to them.

We will continue to stand firm in our resolve to protect our people and our sovereignty. The safety and well-being of our citizens will always be paramount.

If China indeed values our friendship, we want them to understand that we don't hurt our friends.

We are never the aggressors.
Amid raging row over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2024 examination, the Union Ministry of Education on Wednesday cancelled the UGC-NET June 2024 examination held across the country on June 18.

The decision was taken after the University Grants Commission (UGC) received inputs indicating that the integrity of the examination may have been compromised.

To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, the Ministry of Education, Government of India has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination be cancelled, the ministry said in a press release.

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Now, a fresh examination will be held for UGC-NET 2024 and the dates shall be announced separately.

The ministry has also handed over the probe into the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately. Simultaneously, the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for thorough investigation in the matter, it said.

The development comes amid a massive row over the NEET-UG examination 2024. The NTA is facing intense heat over the NEET exam after several aspirants approached the Supreme Court over an alleged paper leak.

Reacting to the issue, the Education Ministry said that the issue related to the grace marks has already been addressed.

As regards certain irregularities alleged in the conduct of the examination in Patna, a detailed report has been sought from the Economic Offences Unit, Bihar Police. Government will take further action, on receipt of this report, the release stated.

The ministry warned that strict action shall be taken against any individual or organization found to be involved in any irregularities.

Government is committed to ensure the sanctity of examinations and protect the interest of students. It is reiterated that any individual/organization found to be involved in this matter will face strictest action, it added.
Amid reports of Communist Party of Indias (CPI) leaders severe criticism against Pinarayi Vijayan while reviewing Lok Sabha elections results at the Thiruvananthapuram district council, the Left partys Kerala secretary Binoy Viswam said despite the significant defeat of the Left Democratic Front (LDF), the CPI does not support the replacement of the incumbent chief minister.

In an interview given to a Malayalam news channel, Binoy Viswam on Wednesday clarified that the CPI does not perceive the chief minister as corrupt.

CPI-M alone cannot be blamed for the defeat. Everyone is responsible for it, he said.

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He also stated that it should be examined how perceptions about communist leaders have changed in the present times from earlier when the people dismissed the allegations against the communist rulers.

The CPI Kerala secretary accused those who reveal the discussions going on in the party forums as spies.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay an official visit to Sri Lanka on Thursday.

During the visit, he will have meetings with the leadership of Sri Lanka on wide-ranging issues of the partnership. This will be his first bilateral visit after the formation of the new government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Reaffirming Indias Neighbourhood First Policy, the visit underlines Indias continued commitment to Sri Lanka as its closest maritime neighbour and time tested friend.

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The visit will add momentum to connectivity projects and other mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

During the visit, Dr Jaishankar is also expected to discuss with the Sri Lankan leadership the possibility of a visit by Prime Minister Modi to the island nation this year.

In addition to holding talks with government leaders, Dr Jaishankar will meet politicians across political parties that are preparing for national elections scheduled this year.

Notably, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe was among the leaders who attended the Modi governments oath ceremony on June 9.
Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and former President Pranab Mukherjees son Abhijit Mukherjee on Wednesday said that if the Congress accepts him, he is ready to rejoin and contribute to the party.

Mukherjee, who quit the Congress and joined Mamata Banerjee-led TMC in 2021, also alleged that the partys work culture did not match with that of the Congress.

After I joined the TMC (in 2021), I got no such assignments. Their work culture did not match with the Congress. I am a Congressman. I thought enough is enough, he said, talking to a news agency.

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He further said, After coming to Delhi, many senior leaders (Congress) from West Bengal and other states indirectly asked me why am I sitting quietThey told me to think.

Banerjee claimed that he has sought time from the Congress high command to discuss his rejoining the party.

I thought and have sought time from senior high command. Maybe they will give me time in a day or two I will talk to them and if they tell me to immediately join, then I will. From my side, I am completely free and I am ready to contribute, he said.

In response to a question, the former MP from West Bengals Jangipur parliamentary seat, Mukherjee said, If the Congress accepts me, definitely I will. It will be a homecoming.

Referring to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he said, In 2019 elections, I know the reasons why I lost and the high command (Congress) knows it too. They did not give enough assignments and gradually I was being marginalised by a particular person, a particular group. It happens in politics.
Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepas manager Sridhar allegedly committed suicide by consuming rat poison, police said on Wednesday.

The incident occurred in April before the actor was arrested in connection with the murder of his fan earlier this month, they said.

Sridhar, 39, was battling depression and was unmarried and hence, he took the extreme step. A suicide note was recovered from his possession, a senior official of the Karnataka police said.

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On June 11, Darshan and his co-star and friend Pavithra Gowda were arrested for their alleged involvement in the murder of Renukaswamy, a die-hard fan of the actor.

Renukaswamy, 33, an autorickshaw driver, was allegedly kidnapped from Chitradurga district on June 8 after reportedly sending derogatory messages to Gowda, which infuriated Darshan, according to police. His body was later found near Sumanahalli Bridge in Bengaluru.

An autopsy revealed Renukaswamy was brutally attacked and died due to shock and hemorrhage as a result of multiple blunt injuries sustained. The post-mortem report also indicated Renukaswamy was kicked and suffered a ruptured testicle.

Renukaswamy was also given electric shocks prior to his death, it said.

Meanwhile, Sridhar, in the suicide note, asked the police not to involve his family in the investigation.

According to media reports, the police have begun a probe to determine if the suicide has anything to do with the ongoing investigation into the murder case involving Darshan.

As many as 17 people, including Darshan and Pavithra Gowda, have been arrested in connection with the murder of Renukaswamy.

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara said there was no need to hand over the Renukaswamy murder case to the CBI as the police were doing a good job in their investigation without succumbing to any pressure.

There should not be any politics in this case. I am saying this because I have seen various reports in the media. This incident should not have happened, but it did. There could have been some statements but we will not bow to any pressure, he told reporters.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that the decision of the Centre to deny political clearance to the state Health Minister Veena George to visit victims of the fire accident in Kuwait, was against cooperative federalism.

In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan described the situation as unfortunate and emphasised that raising the issue was necessary despite their reluctance to create controversy during such distressing times.

The state government shall be failing in its duty, if the non-response to the request for the political clearance is not brought before the attention of the Prime Minister. The collective decision of the state cabinet has been disregarded. Political clearance was requested as per the Office Memorandum of the Cabinet Secretariat dated February 28, 2023, CM Vijayan said in his letter.

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He said that health minister Veena George could not visit Kuwait as the External Affairs Ministry did not respond to the state governments request for political clearance.The chief minister also requested the Prime Minister to advise the Ministry for External Affairs to be responsive to such requests in the future.

In his letter, Pinarayi Vijayan further said that around half the number of people who lost their lives in the fire accident hailed from Kerala. Her presence in Kuwait would have helped substantially in liaisoning with the Union Minister of State for External Affairs, the team of officials and the Embassy. This could have provided mental relief and confidence to the families of those who were affected by the unforeseen tragedy, he said.

The tragic fire in Kuwait claimed 49 lives, including 24 from Kerala. Following this, the Kerala cabinet on June 13, decided to send the minister to Kuwait to coordinate relief efforts, which included arranging treatment for the injured and managing the repatriation of the deceased. However, the trip was cancelled and the minister said her departure was blocked by the Union government.

Earlier on Friday, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed deep resentment at the Centres decision in denying clearance to state health minister Veena Georges visit to Kuwait to coordinate efforts for Keralites affected by the fire tragedy.

Leader of Opposition in the state Assembly V D Satheesan said it was unfortunate that the state health minister was not allowed to travel to Kuwait.

A representative of the state government would have helped to better coordinate the relief efforts. The states representative would also have been able to help the Union government to carry out the relief efforts, Satheesan said.

George also came forward criticizing the central governments act of denying her permission at the last minute. This should not have been done to Kerala.

However, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan came out in support of the Centres action. Governor Khan said that when the bodies of the deceased were being brought on Friday, what would Veena George have achieved by going there on Thursday.

What is the use in sending the minister for a day. There is no point in the minister going to Kuwait to spend a few hours. The Union Minister has gone to Kuwait and made all the arrangements. The central government had intervened to bring all the dead bodies to the country, the Governor said.

Former minister of state for external affairs V Muralidharan has also come out to justify the Centres action.He said there is no established system of sending state ministers to a foreign country to coordinate relief efforts related to a tragedy.

The state unit of the BJP also came in support of the Central governments decision .BJP state president K Surendran said sending a state minister to Kuwait was not necessary,as all procedures related to the repatriation of the bodies were completed under the Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday itself . Then, why should the central government unnecessarily send a state minister to coordinate the procedure? Surendran asked.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihars Rajgir. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also accompanied Modi during the inauguration ceremony.

Addressing a gathering during the inauguration event, Modi said that rebuilding of Nalanda will introduce to the world Indias capabilities.

The rebuilding of Nalanda is going to start the golden era of IndiaNalandas reawakening, this new campus, will give the world an introduction to Indias capability, the PM said.

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Expressing his happiness on the opportunity to visit Nalanda just days after returning as PM for the third consecutive term, Modi said that fire can burn books but it cant destroy knowledge.

I am happy that I got the opportunity to visit Nalanda within 10 days after swearing in as PM for the 3rd timeNalanda is not just a name, it is an identity and respect. Nalanda is a value and mantrafire can burn books but it cant destroy knowledge, he added.

The prime minister also planted a sapling in the University campus.

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar thanked Modi for the inauguration and added that he was happy to know that he was coming for the event.

 I welcome Prime Minister Modi, I congratulate and thank him. When I got to know that you are coming here, I was very happy, he said.

The inauguration event was also attended by External Affairs MInister S Jaishankar, Bihar Governor Rajendra Arlekar and state deputy CMs  Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha. Ambassadors from 17 countries were also present during the inauguration of Nalanda Universitys new campus.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday that he wants to see one Indian product on every dining table in the world which would be possible by focusing on agriculture exports.

Addressing a Kisan Samman Sammelan in Varanasi on Tuesday, the Prime Minister said, We need zero defect products with a focus on millets and organic produce. Agriculture will be a major factor in making India the third biggest economy in the world.

This was PM Modis first visit to his Lok Sabha constituency after becoming the Prime Minister for the third consecutive term.

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On the occasion, the Prime Minister released Rs 20,000 crore as part of the income support scheme to over 9.26 crore farmers under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi.

The Prime Minister also handed over certificates to a representative group of more than 30,000 women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) as Krishi Sakhis.

The Krishi Sakhi Convergence Programme (KSCP) aims to transform rural India through the empowerment of rural women as Krishi Sakhi, by imparting training and certifying them as Para-extension Workers. This certification course also aligns with the objectives of the Lakhpati Didi programme.

Stating that woman power is focal to agricultural development, the Prime Minister said, There are 31 crore women voters in India which is the maximum in any country. This is the beauty and strength of our democracy. I recently attended the G7 meet in Italy and if you add the votes of all member countries, it is still less than the number of voters in India, he said.

The Prime Minister also said that the mandate given by the people in the Lok Sabha polls this time is unparalleled.

Kashi has elected me not just as an MP, but as the Prime Minister for the third consecutive time. Your faith is my treasure. It inspires me to work doubly hard and fulfil your aspirations, he said.

The Lok Sabha polls showed the vastness, strength and vibrancy of our democracy, and also its strong roots, he added.

The Prime Minister also pointed out that Kashi is the capital of learning which has also shown that a heritage city can shine with development.
Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Pralhad Joshi made a surprise visit to the Food Corporation of India (FCI) headquarters here on Wednesday.

Mr Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution also accompanied him during his visit. The objective of the visit was to gain firsthand insight into the operational dynamics and challenges faced by the corporation, officials said.

Mr Joshi engaged in detailed discussions with the senior officials, emphasising on the importance of ensuring food security and improving the efficiency of food distribution across the country.

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The Union Minister, while discussing various aspects of FCI operations also emphasized the need for great efficiency and thrust on reducing the cost and burden on subsidy. Also, during the tour of the office building, he suggested improving infrastructure. This visit marks his first engagement with FCI after taking charge of the ministry.

During his visit, Mr Joshi interacted with the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), all Executive Directors, Chief General Managers (CGMs), and General Managers (GMs) of FCI.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar on Wednesday.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath congratulated the people of the country and expressed gratitude to PM Narendra Modi.

He described this modern form of Nalanda University as a re-establishment of Indias ancient educational glory, heralding it as a golden age for Indian education and culture.

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CM Yogi wrote in a post on X, The inauguration of the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar by the Prime Minister is a vivid testament to his commitment towards preserving Indias cultural heritage and promoting educational development. The revitalization of Nalanda University in its contemporary form will rejuvenate Indias illustrious ancient legacy of unparalleled intellect, boundless knowledge, exceptional education, and rich cultural heritage on the global stage of education. This is an Amrit Kaal for the revival of Indias ancient glory in education and culture.

Congratulations to the people of the country and heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister!

It is noteworthy that with the cooperation of 17 countries, the Indian government has established a new campus of the famous Nalanda University near Rajgir in Bihar. The new campus of Nalanda University is special in several respects, maintaining tradition and at the same time providing students with state-of-the-art facilities.

On the occasion of the inauguration of Nalanda University, PM Modi said, Nalanda represents an identity, an honour. It is a value, a mantra, a pride, and a saga. The inauguration of Nalanda University affirms the truth that flames may burn the books, but cannot erase knowledge.
FORT NOVOSELFort Novosel soldiers, civilians and family members who frequent the Soldier Service Center or Lyster Army Health Clinic are used to being greeted by the smell of fresh roasted coffee.

That aroma may have gone through a recent locally sourced upgrade, according to Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Marketing Director Shannon Burke, but the new logo comes with an even more local story of its own.

Joeys Brew hosted their ceremonial ribbon cutting event on June 12 at their location inside the Soldier Service Center on Fort Novosel. The garrison command team and MWR members welcomed the Mural City Coffee Company from Dothan, Joeys Brew supplier, to join in the event.

Col. John P. Miller, Fort Novosel garrison commander, spoke on the meaning behind the new branding of Joeys Brew. He explained how kangaroos are connected to the home of Army Aviation.

This celebration is all about strengthening bonds, said Miller, bonds between our history and bonds with our community.

According to Miller, the name Joeys Brew speaks to the history of the bases namesake.

As a medivac pilot, aircraft commander with two tours in Vietnam, Mike Novosel flew with the 82nd Medical Detachment, said Miller. Their patch, if you ever saw it, had a kangaroo on it carrying a medics bag. The medic bag was being held by the baby kangaroo, or the joey, in its moms pouch. It was there because their primary mission was to support the Australian Army in Vietnam.

The partnership between Mural City Coffee Roasters and Fort Novosel MWR, opens the gate between the wiregrass community and the installation.

It shows that we want to be a good community partner, be a good friend to our local community, and say thank you for being our friend and bringing your great products to us here at Fort Novosel, said Miller.

Leadership from Fort Novosel, MWR and Mural City Coffee Company cut the ceremonial ribbon together before sharing samples from the Joeys Brew menu. For the hours of operation, phone number, and current menu head to their website at The Coffee Zone (armymwr.com).
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday chaired the first pre-budget consultation with Indias leading economists.

The meeting set the stage for the upcoming full budget formulation, bringing together top economic minds to provide valuable insights and recommendations.

Taking it to the social media platform X, the Ministry of Finance said, Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman chairs the first Pre-Budget Consultations with leading economists in connection with the forthcoming General Budget 2024-25 in New Delhi, today.

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The Pre-Budget consultation meeting was also attended by Union Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary; Finance Secretary; Secretaries of Departments of Economic Affairs, Revenue, Financial Services and Corporate Affairs; and Chief Economic Adviser, Government of India.

Notably, earlier, the ministry had invited suggestions on direct and indirect taxes and changes in laws to reduce compliances for the 2024-25 budget from trade and industry associations.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is further scheduled to meet representatives from industry associations on June 20 evening as part of the pre-budget consultations.

At the meet, industry associations like the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham), and PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry will present their budget suggestions and recommendations.

The discussions are likely to cover a broad range of topics, including tax reforms, incentives for various industries, measures to boost economic growth, and policies to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

As per the reports, the budget is anticipated to be tabled in Parliament in the third week of July.

So far, Sitharaman has presented six budgets in a row and will create a record when she presents the full-fledged budget for the new term of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance government.
A day after independent MLAs offered their unconditional support to the Pema Khandu-led BJP government, three NCP MLAs in Arunachal Pradesh also extended their support to the ruling party on Wednesday.

The MLAs  Nikh Kamin, Likha Soni, and Toko Tatung  handed over their letters of support during a meeting with Chief Minister Pema Khandu in his office.

Expressing his gratitude, Khandu acknowledged the importance of the alliance in fostering the states progress. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Honble MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (Ajit Pawar), Shri Nikh Kamin Ji, Shri Likha Soni Ji, and Shri Toko Tatung Ji, for their unconditional support to the BJP government in Arunachal Pradesh. The MLAs handed over their letter of support during their call on, Khandu posted on X.

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Your commitment and cooperation are greatly appreciated. Together, we will continue to work towards the development and prosperity of Arunachal Pradesh, the Chief Minister added.

In the past two days, three independent candidates and two Peoples Party of Arunachal (PPA) members have also extended their support to the BJP government in the northeastern state.

The BJP had secured 46 seats in the 60-member assembly elections held on April 19 this year. The National Peoples Party (NPP) won five seats, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) three, the Peoples Party of Arunachal two, Congress one, and three independents also emerged victorious.

The NPP and NCP are constituent partners of the North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA).
Indian Army was playing a vital role in the relief operations of more than 1,200 tourists stranded in North Sikkim, said officials on Wednesday.

The evacuation of these tourists stranded in North Sikkim since June 12 commenced on June 17. So far, more than 115 persons have been provided with medical attention by the Army, including a lifesaving emergency distress call of one 24-year-old at Lachung who was suffering from High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.

The Army said that troops of the Trishakti Corps were assisting in a big way to speed up the relief operations conducted by the civil administration.

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Due to the large number of landslides, the tourists were being moved on foot and by vehicle in the stretches wherever connectivity existed.

Working under challenging weather and terrain conditions, the signallers of the Indian Army helped BSNL and Airtel restore mobile connectivity on June 18. Since June 12, the Indian Army installed more than half a dozen telephone booths to facilitate locals and tourists to connect with their relatives, officials added.

Medical teams have set up, and aid booths were providing care to the needy residents and tourists. All the needy people have been provided with the basic requirements of rations and other logistics support to sustain in this critical time, said the defence officials.

The Indian Army engineers are assisting BRO by providing manpower and stores to restore connectivity. Indian Army is steadfast in its commitment to ensure safe evacuation of all stranded tourists & local population, the officials said.
A joint team of the Cyber Cell and Uttar Pradesh Police have arrested seven members of a gang that had siphoned Rs 120 crore off the bank account of the APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), the police said.

According to police, while posing as AKTU officials, the fraudsters first opened an account in the universitys name at a branch of a nationalised bank where the varsity already had an account.

Thereafter, they tricked the bank officials into transferring Rs 120 crore in five instalments to the new account and from there the money was transferred to an account of a Gujarat-based charitable trust in another nationalised bank.

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This transaction raised doubts in the minds of bank officials who got an audit done and discovered the fraud.

The officials then informed police which arrested seven men on Tuesday, alleged to be involved in the crime.

Police say that the gang had procured a letter required for the transfer of funds from the public sector banks branch manager, Anuj Kumar Saxena, and impersonated AKTUs authorised signatory to open the second bank account.

They then procured cheque books and transferred the money to the Gujarat-based companys bank account.

Those arrested were identified as Devendra Prasad Prabha Shankar Joshi and Uday Patel from Gujarat, Rajesh Babu of Unnao, Girish Chandra and Shailesh Kumar Raghuvanshi of Lucknow, Dastgeer Alam of Amethi and Krishna Kant of Basti district.

The police also succeeded in recovering Rs 119 crore from the accused by getting the payment stopped.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (East), Prabal Pratap Singh, said the miscreants procured the email ID of the bank by contacting the banks branch manager who was on vacation.

The miscreants sent a fake letter to the Jankipuram branch in which AKTU has a bank account, asking them to transfer the money in AKTUs FD account at the Vidhan Sabha Marg branch.

The miscreants had opened a fake FD account in the name of AKTU. They then transferred the money in a companys account and withdrew around Rs 1 crore, the DCP added.

In his complaint on June 12, bank manager Anuj Kumar Saxena had said that during his outing in Manali on June 3, he got a call from a man who introduced himself as Shailesh Kumar Raghuvanshi, who asked him to share his visiting card as he needed to make a fixed deposit.

Saxena added that he sent Raghuvanshi to the bank and asked a bank official to take up his case.

On the next day, I got a call from one Jai Singh who introduced himself as the finance officer of AKTU, asking for the FD rate at the bank. The next day they got Rs 49 crore, Rs 49 crore and Rs 22 crore transferred to the Vidhan Sabha Marg branch from the Jankipuram branch, he said.

He also added that the bank sensed the foul play and requested the Gujarat bank in which the trust has a bank account to stop the payment.
Few people know that College Dupleix, perhaps the only educational institution in the country at Chandernagore, was closed from 1908 to 1931 because of the alleged connection of the students with the revolutionaries.

Chandernagore, or Chandannagore, which was a French colony, played an important role in the Indian freedom movement. Sri Aurobindo, on his way to Pondicherry, stayed there. Revolutionaries like Rash Behari Bose, Charu Chandra Roy and Motilal Roy were residents of this place. Swami Vivekananda had visited Chandernagore and inspired the youth. Kanailal Dutta, who gave his life for his motherland, was a resident of the area.

A unique book titled College Dupleix to Chandernagore College: The Journey from Revolution to Emancipation, penned by professor Debasish Sarkar, principal of the college, along with professor Abin Chakraborty and two budding scholars on revolutionary movements in Bengal, Saikat Neogy and Soumobrato Dasgupta, has described the changes that have taken place in the state-run college over the years. It is the only college in the country that has a museum on the revolutionary movement. This is the first book that has seen the college from a historical perspective. Priced at Rs 2,000, the book has been brought out by Dasgupta & Company Private Limited, a well-known heritage publisher in India.

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The book is divided into seven chapters, and each chapter focuses on different aspects of the college and the evolution that has taken place over the years.

Chandernagore, situated on the western bank of the river Hooghly, is a part of the riverine civilisation known as Little Europe on the Ganges. Europeans started coming to the place for trading and set up a colony in the 16th century. Chandernagore, popularly called Farashdanga because of the French settlement, was a place that became a centre of education, culture and business, and it had become a sign of prestige for the Bengali landed aristocrats to have houses on the bank of the Hooghly.

The educational institution traces its origins back to St Marys Institution, established by the Jesuit priest M. Magloire Barthedt on 31 August 1862. The institution gradually evolved first into Ecole Publique de Garcons, then started the First Arts (FA) course in 1891 under the aegis of the University of Calcutta, and later developed into College Dupleix in 1901. The college was under the administration of the French Government of Chandernagore. From 1931 on, College Dupleix began to offer intermediate courses in arts and sciences under the University of Calcutta, and the first graduate courses started in 1947. The college was renamed the College de Bussy. Chandernagore became a free city in November 1947, and on 2 October 1954, Chandernagore College came under the control of the state administration.

From 1908 to 1931, College Dupleix was the epicentre of revolutionary activities. The deputy director was Charu Chandra Roy. Sir Charles Teggart, the well-known former Commissioner of Calcutta Police, had visited the area many times and conducted raids, however unsuccessfully, to unearth bomb-making factories. Swami Vivekananda, who visited Chandernagore, said, The country has become a power magazine. A little spark may ignite it. I will see the revolution during my lifetime. (Swami Vivekananda, Patriot Prophet: A Study, Bhupendra Nath Dutta, page 13).

Over the years, the college has experienced many ups and downs. The paperless college encourages environmental awareness. The students associated with NSS are trying to develop mangrove collections along the Hooghly River. They also offer education at the primary level in schools run by the Chandernagore Municipal Corporation. To conserve energy, solar power has been installed along with rainwater harvesting. There is an organic vermicompost post-project.

A unique museum in the heritage building has added value to the college. The museum focuses on the Indian freedom movement and the history of Chandernagore. There were weavers and dhotis, and sarees made by them had been appreciated across the country. There were local doll makers and boat manufacturers.

The book contains in detail the revolutionary activities and the secret societies that came up in Chandernagore with the sole motto of driving out the British through armed revolution.

This book will be loved by those eager to know about the armed revolution in Bengal. It will encourage other colleges to write similar books based on historical perspectives. It is a tragedy that Presidency College (now University) does not have a book written from a historical perspective. Book lovers should thank professor Debasish Sarkar, principal of the college, for taking up such a venture.

College Dupleix to Chandernagore College: The Journey from Revolution to Emancipation

By Debasish Sarkar, Abin Chakraborty, Saikat Neogy and Soumobrato Dasgupta

Dasgupta & Co Pvt Ltd, 2024

239 pages, Rs 2,000/-
The term nanohistory (anu itihas) pertains to historical narratives focusing on smaller entities or localities, such as districts, sub-divisions, towns, and villages, rather than nations or larger regions. In undivided Bengal, from the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century, a noteworthy trend emerged, where chronicles of sub-regions were crafted, predominantly in Bengali. The genre started with Kalikamal Sarbabhaumas Setihas Bagurar Brittanta (1861). This was followed by Shyamdhan Mukherjees Murshidabader Itihas (1864). The other noted works of nanohistory were Murshidabad Kahini by Nikhilnath Ray (1897), Nadia Kahini by Kumudnath Mullick (1909), Srihatter Itibritta by Achyutacharan Chaudhuri (1911), Jasohar Khulnar Itihas by Satishchandra Mitra (1914), and Hughly Jelar Itihas by Sudhirkumar Mitra (1948). The production of such local histories formed part of a larger project to preserve and glorify the indigenous heritage of the land by the Bengali gentry. It is remarkable to find out that most of the local chroniclers were not institutional academicians but so-called amateurs or laypersons. They comprised junior-level government employees, lawyers, school teachers, minor zamindars and small-time businessmen.

It should be mentioned that this growing popular interest in history was matched by the rising tide of patriotism in broader society. These tendencies reached a crescendo during the Swadeshi movement (190511). By the 1870s, many Bengalis, educated in the western model, felt nostalgic about the disappearing heritage of the country. They also appreciated the need to issue a fitting rejoinder to the arrogant British rulers. So they turned towards the rural areas, supposedly unaffected by western modernisation, to collect the literary and material remains of the hoary past. Mohammed Shahidullah once remarked, Materials for constructing historical narratives are strewn all over the country in the shape of religious relics, public works of past ages like water bodies, folk memories and legends.

The pre-colonial Bengalis had an indigenous sense of history, which is reflected in texts like Kulajis and Mangal Kabyas. However, institutional study of the past heritage started with the foundation of the Asiatic Society (1784), which popularised western methodology amongst Indian literati. The foundation of Fort William College in 1800 also advanced the cause of history writing in Bengali. The authorities of the college commissioned historical literature from authors like Ramram Basu, Rajiblochan Mukherjee, and Mritunjoy Bidyalankar. However, these pioneering works in Bengali historiography largely depended on traditional memories, lore, and social legends.

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The idea to produce a patriotic history of the Bengalis received a boost from Bankimchandra Chatterjee. His goals were to debunk the distorted portrayals by prejudiced European scholars and to instil a sense of glory amongst his countrymen. He considered it to be an essential duty of the Bengalis to write their own history in their regional language. In the early 1880s, Bankimchandra wrote a series of popular articles on the history of Bengal in Bengali periodicals such as Bangadarshan. At the turn of the century, Rabindranath Tagore himself, while commenting on the role of the historical periodical Aitihasik Chitra, emphasised the proper tapping of indigenous sources to construct the authentic history of the people here.

Thus, Jatiprathistha (revival of the nation) became a concern for the Bengali gentlefolk, both in the historians circle and in the wider social arena by the end of the 19th century. The expression desh became especially relevant in this context. Broadly standing for motherland, it could mean either ones native locality, a larger province like Bengal, or the Indian nation as a whole. This quest for a national history soon became organised and institutionalised, and academic bodies cropped up. Such organised efforts included the publication of journals and periodicals where articles on history and antiquity were published. Interestingly, in 1873, out of 36 journals and magazines published in Bengal, 19 were from rural centres like Rangpur, Murshidabad, Bikrampur, etc. Among such organisations, the Bangiya Sahitya Parishat deserves a special mention. The scholars attached to the Parishat collected many rare manuscripts, inscriptions, and pieces of sculpture. The Barendra Research Society was formed with broadly similar objectives in 1910. The main brains of this society were Akshay Kumar Maitreya, Sasadhar Ray, the Secretary of the Rajshahi Bangiya Sahitya Parishat, and Sarat Kumar Ray, the Zamindar of Dighapatia. They were inspired by the presence of a large number of archaeological remains in and around Rajshahi. So they decided not to hand over these findings to the Kolkata-based Indian Museum or the Bangiya Sahitya Parishat but rather establish a centre at Rajshahi itself. This would be placed far from Kolkata and would mainly concentrate on the glory of the ancient Barendrabhumi. There were similar societies of lesser renown. In the late 19th century, the importance of archaeology and anthropology in constructing the history of Bengal was increasingly appreciated. Before this, the authors were often forced to depend on dubious legends and family traditions. But scholars like N.K. Bhattasali, Ramaprasad Chanda, Akshay Kumar Maitreya, and Rakhaldas Banerjee did much to discover, decipher, and interpret a large number of archaeological artefacts, including many inscriptions.

Soon, an interesting debate started between choreographers who relied upon traditional literary sources like Kulajis, Ghatak karikas, and Mangal Kabyas and academicians who gave precedence to archaeological proofs like copper plate inscriptions. The first group included Lalmohan Vidyanidhi, Nagendranath Basu, who wrote Banger Jatiya Itihasa (1898), Satyacharan Shastri, and Durgachandra Sanyal. Dinesh Chandra Sen, in his Brihat Banga (1935), drew widely on these sources. His friend Daksinaranjan Mitra Majumdar, like the Brothers Grimm of Germany, collected numerous folk lores and fairy tales orally transmitted among the grandparents of the rural households in the famous Thakurmar Jhuli (Grandmothers Bag of Tales, 1907). His predecessor collector was Rev. Lalbehari Dey. However, their critics, including RC Majumdar, lost no time in highlighting the glaring factual errors embedded in texts such as the Kulajis. Archaeology, along with numismatics and epigraphy, became prominent in the 19th century, not only in India but in other colonised and European-dominated countries as well, owing to a complex combination of factors.

The Bengali gentry had, by the 1870s, the responsibility of producing a reliable historical narrative that would place their region on a firm footing among the family of nations and counter the high-browed attitude of the colonial masters effectively. Such zest was not unique to Bengal in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Historians in other regions of India, like Rajasthan and various Afro-Asian countries, who were trying to construct a credible past for their emerging nations were similarly inspired and were prepared to use a variety of formal and informal sources. Possibly, the concept of Brihat Banga (Greater Bengal), popularised by scholars like Dinesh Chandra Sen, was inspired by Greater Germany or pan-Germandom.

Another literary school closely associated with romantic amateur historiography and facilitating the popularity of heritage studies was historical literature. Bengali poets, dramatists, and novelists drew freely on newly discovered historical sources. They were largely influenced by the works of Sir Walter Scott (17711832) and his European disciples. The contributions of Michael Madhusudan Dutta, Bankimchandra, Nabin Chandra Sen, and Abanindranath Tagore are too well documented to be discussed in detail here. History was made popular among the common people by stage performances as well. Bengali theatre had taken off by the early 19th century. Here, the roles of Jyotirindranath Tagore, Girishchandra Ghosh, Dwijendralal Ray, and Kshirod Prasad Vidya Vinod should be noted. Jatra, or folk theatre, too played its part in inspiring the common people.

In order to fully appreciate the local lay chroniclers desire to unearth the lost history and culture of their tract, we should spare a thought about their efforts to protect the newly discovered archaeological artefacts. In eastern Bengal, before 1947, there were two prominent institutional museums: the Dhaka Museum and the Barenda Research Society Museum. In 1905, Dhaka became the capital of the new provinces of East Bengal and Assam. Then the need was felt to have a museum there. But nothing could be done until 1911, when the Bengal Partition was annulled and Dhaka lost its capital status. To appease the sentiments of the Muslim residents, the governor, Lord Carmichael, actively encouraged the establishment of the Dhaka Museum. It was inaugurated in 1913. However, the museum was dogged by financial difficulties during British rule and in the East Pakistan era. Only after the emergence of Bangladesh in 1971 did the museum receive full government patronage. Barendra Research Society received government recognition in 1914 and had its own building in 1919. There were some private museums in pre-1947 East Bengal, owned by individuals like the famous homoeopath Mahesh Bhattacharya and the zamindar Kalidas Dutta, the pioneer antiquarian on the Sunderbans.

As in eastern Bengal, in western Bengal too, the effort to collect and preserve local archaeological remains is clearly visible. Here, we would focus mainly on museums in the countryside rather than in Kolkata. In Tamluk, or ancient Tampralipta, Umacharan Adhikari excelled in the arts of both writing history and collecting archaeological evidence. He was ably followed by Gourdas Basak. In Murshidabad, Nawab Ferazun Jah (reigned 183881) converted parts of his famous Hazarduari palace (Palace with a Thousand Doors) into a museum by displaying his ancestral regalia and personal possessions there. His example was followed by residents of Murshidabad, like Rai Bahadur Surendranarayan Sinha. Based on his collections, the state government later started the Murshidabad District Museum.

The European missionaries of Serampore should also be given due credit for increasing the appeal of museums among Bengalis. Carey and his Christian colleagues, in order to spread education along western missionary lines, collected a large number of old manuscripts, statues, coins, mineral, coral, and rock specimens. These formed the basis of the museum founded in 1822 at Serampore College. These novel ventures certainly impressed the Bengalis and opened up new vistas for them. The French in Chandannagar also took such steps, and in 1951, the French Administrative Centre was converted into a museum. Harihar Seth, a major patriot there, devoted his entire collection of rare specimens to this museum. Thus, the Chandannagar museum has a unique Indo-French blend. The organisation in West Bengal that took up the cause of the preservation of historical objects most sincerely was the Bangiya Sahitya Parishat. The museum section took off after this body had its own building in 1908. However, the activities of the Parishat were not confined to Kolkata, and it patronised similar efforts in the districts. One such example is Jogeshchandra Purakriti Bhavan of Bishnupur in Bankura. Bishnupur is extremely rich in archaeological treasure. Gurusadai Dutta, I.C.S., founder of the Bratachari movement, felt the need to preserve the local and rural cultural specimens of Bengal. With this view, he established a Bratachari village in North 24-Parganas and a Bratachari museum there in 1940. There were some lesser-known but equally devoted nationalists: Kantha Sen and Haripada Dawn of Purulia. Their efforts led to the foundation of Haripada Sahitya Mandir, the first library-museum in Purulia. Between 1912 and 1956, Purulia (Manbhum) was not a part of Bengal but of Bihar. So the Bengalis there had to wage a dual struggle to secure the freedom of the country and preserve their own cultural identity in the face of Hindi dominance. Guided by this spirit, these nationalists founded a centre where the historical heritage of the area would be preserved.

Hence, dedicated choreographers made concerted efforts, particularly beyond formal academia, to preserve the historical heritage of the region.

The writer is assistant professor, Vidyasagar College for Women, Kolkata
South Koreas largest lobby group of community doctors on Tuesday threatened to begin an indefinite walkout starting June 27 unless the government accepts its demands, including revisiting the issue of increasing medical school admissions.

Lim Hyun-taek, head of the Korea Medical Association (KMA), made the remarks at a rally of some 10,000 doctors earlier in the day, when some community doctors staged a one-day walkout in protest of the governments medical reform, reports Yonhap News Agency.

If doctors rightful demands are not accepted by the government, Lim said community doctors will indefinitely walk off their jobs beginning June 27.

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The demands included revisiting the issue of the medical school quota hike and withdrawing all punitive steps against trainee doctors who have left hospitals since late February.

The government has flatly rejected such demands.

On Tuesday, about 14.9 per cent of the 36,059 community hospitals, excluding dental and oriental medicine clinics, reported to the government that they were taking a day off, according to the health ministry.

The figure was less than half of the corresponding tally for the weeks-long walkout staged by doctors in 2020 in protest against the governments medical reform scheme.

The Korea Severe Disease Association, a local patients advocacy group, meanwhile, condemned the walkout, noting that doctors have discarded the Hippocratic oath, which refers to a vow taken by healthcare workers.

Earlier in the day, the government ordered community doctors who joined a one-day walkout to return to work, warning that they would face legal punishment unless they comply with the order.

If the medical vacuum becomes a reality, we plan to carry out on-site investigations and gather evidence to launch administrative actions, including suspending practices in accordance with the medical law, Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong said.

We also plan to take stern actions against social media posts inciting illegal collective action to refuse medical services under the disguise of voluntary participation, Cho added.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stressed the importance of expanding cooperation between the Western military alliance and partners in the Indo-Pacific region, amid a visit to North Korea by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Putins visit to North Korea demonstrates and confirms the very close alignment between Russia and authoritarian states like North Korea, but also China and Iran, Stoltenberg said at a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Washington on Tuesday.

This also demonstrates that our security is not regional. Its global. What happens in Europe matters for Asia, and what happens in Asia matters for us, Stoltenberg said, adding This is demonstrated in Ukraine, where Iran, North Korea, and China are propping up, fuelling Russias war of aggression against Ukraine.

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The NATO Chief went on to say that the idea that we can divide security into regional theatres doesnt work anymore Everything is intertwined and therefore we need to address these challenges together.

Stoltenberg also highlighted concerns about Moscows potential support for Pyongyang when it comes to supporting their missile and nuclear programmes, stressing this is another reason to strengthen cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Putin arrived in North Korea on Tuesday evening for a two-day state visit against the backdrop of Russias war with Ukraine.

The Kremlin leader was received at the airport by North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un, according to Russian news agency Interfax.

According to observers, the leaders will discuss arms deliveries from Pyongyang, among other things.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for action to eradicate hate speech completely.

In his message on the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, the UN chief said on Tuesday that hate speech is a marker of discrimination, abuse, violence, conflict, and even crimes against humanity.

There is no acceptable level of hate speech; we must all work to eradicate it completely, he added.

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Noting that recent months have seen an upsurge in both anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim hate speech online and in public comments by influential leaders, Guterres said hate speech today targets a broad range of groups, often based on grounds of race, ethnicity, religion, belief, or political affiliation, Xinhua news agency reported.

Hate speech may be used against women, refugees, migrants, gender-diverse and trans people, and minorities, he stressed, adding that it is massively amplified by the power of digital platforms and tools that enable it to spread across borders and cultures.

Countries have an obligation under international law to prevent and combat incitement to hatred and to promote diversity, mutual understanding and solidarity, and the United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech provides a framework to tackle both the causes and impacts of this scourge, said Guterres.

The United Nations is currently preparing Global Principles for Information Integrity to guide decision-makers around these issues, he added.

As young people are often most affected by hate speech, particularly online, young people must be part of the solution, Guterres noted, stressing, The participation of young people is crucial to create public and online spaces free from hate speech.

Governments, local authorities, religious, corporate and community leaders must invest in measures to promote tolerance, diversity and inclusivity, and to challenge hate speech in all its forms, the UN Chief said.

As we mark the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, let us all work to promote human rights education, bring young people into democratic decision-making, and counter intolerance, discrimination, prejudice and stereotypes, wherever they are found, he concluded.
Feeling overwhelmed by data? Struggling to translate information into insights? Youre not alone! But what if there was a way to unlock the hidden potential of your data?

Join us for this weeks edition of Lets Talk, where our experts will discuss how big data and AI can transform your business. Well delve into how these powerful tools can help you make smarter decisions, predict trends, and stay ahead of the competition.

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Janine Morris, Industry Engagement and Strategy Lead at AvePoint

Janine Morris, Industry Engagement and Strategy Lead at AvePoint

The biggest impacts of AI on todays organisations will likely be the collection, processing and management of data. As we see in the context of Microsoft Copilot, organisations are leveraging AI to harness information already at their disposal to create efficiencies that will transform the way we work.

In saying that, AI is only as effective as the data and information it is provided with. So much of the information an organisation stores cant be actioned or is underutilised because of poor controls and effective management. In order for AI to be effective, organisations will need to establish structured control over data and information throughout its entire lifecycle, from creation to eventual archival or disposal. If not, organisations are going to have major headaches leveraging AI-driven technologies to drive business insights and create efficiencies.

Brad Kasell, Principal Technology Strategist at Domo Australia

Brad Kasell, Principal Technology Strategist at Domo Australia

Were a couple of years into Generative AI now and it remains the hottest topic in town. That said, with experience and increasing maturity its quickly becoming apparent that AI must move beyond trials and proofs-of-concept, to pay its way in terms of business impact. As data practitioners its now our responsibility to prove AIs value (or not).

One lesson thats quickly being (re)learned is the importance of quality data as a foundational component of your AI capability. While the notion of data quality/integrity is not new, fresh AI-driven perspectives quickly reveal gaps and biases that were not apparent before, especially as we now focus on unstructured data. It doesnt matter how sophisticated your models are, without the right data AI can be a hype-fuelled waste of time.

As always, the answer lies in boring old business impact and analytical relevance  AI might be fun and cool, but wise heads will focus on quantifiable benefits, not just gee-whiz demos. As those use cases begin to reveal themselves, correspondingly new (or improved) data sources will emerge, demanding ever more governance and operational rigour.

Its clear the AI honeymoon is over  its time for AI to earn its keep and deliver business impact. Novelty is not enough.

Inga Latham, Chief Product Officer at Shippit

Inga Latham, Chief Product Officer at Shippit

Data and analytics arent just embraced by behemoth enterprises these daysthe democratisation of data and the spread of machine learning and artificial intelligence in our everyday lives are proof. Businesses  irrespective of their industry or size  who are slow to embrace data-driven decision making, new data tools and new AI-led interaction paradigms are being left behind. Appropriate use of data enables businesses to establish a holistic, real-time view of their operation, using the insights to identify efficiencies and cost savings, improve customer experiences and incentivise loyalty. Take retail, for example, where businesses are contending with softening consumer spending, increasing competition from global brands and rising customer expectations  particularly when it comes to the booming eCommerce delivery market. Through judicious use of machine learning, retailers can, for example, determine where inefficiencies lie in their supply chain, increasing their delivery volumes. Through data and analytics tools like Shippit Insights  a platform that empowers retailers with 250+ actionable data points  retailers can establish a clear and detailed picture of their entire shipping and delivery operation; from cart to doorstep. Ultimately, as economic pressures persist, unit economics are coming into sharper focus for businesses. Data and analytics tools such as Shippit Insights are multipliers. Through big data and AI, businesses can simultaneously identify cost-savings, whilst also improving customer experience and loyalty. Ultimately, this enables businesses to overcome short-term economic challenges without compromising their pursuit of longer-term, sustainable growth.

Warren Schilpzand, Area Vice President of ANZ and Japan at DataStax

Warren Schilpzand, Area Vice President of ANZ and Japan at DataStax

Data, without analysis, is just ones and zeros sitting on a server, while AI is yet another technology that must provide real business outcomes. Combining big data with real-time AI can help you provide the insights you need to innovate and surprise and delight your customers.

Were all drowning in data but using AI even the smallest business can turn it into actionable insights. Using AI when a customer has abandoned their cart on your ecommerce site enables you to send them a notification in the moment with a hyper-personalised offer with compelling wording that might convert them from a window shopper into a buyer.

You can also personalise the experience, combining AI with data about what the customer does, and does not want, what their preferences and tastes are, and then provide them with real-time generated suggestions of other products they might love.

Taken together, AI and data will supercharge your online commerce, regardless of your size or position in the market.

Leah Rankin, Chief Product Officer at SiteMinder

Leah Rankin, Chief Product Officer at SiteMinder

Big data not only allows businesses to better understand their customers behaviours and industry trends, but to gain operational efficiencies. However, capturing meaningful insights from big data can be overwhelming, not to mention time-consuming. By leveraging AI to automate the analysis of such vast information, businesses can quickly uncover patterns and correlations that they were not previously able to. Ultimately, this means greater speed-to-market and more informed decision-making that truly meets customer and business needs.

This capability is no more valuable than to industries still running their operations manually, with either pen & paper or spreadsheets. A good example of this is the hotel industry, which will benefit from having access to these insights and predictive analytics at the same speed at which the broader travel industry is moving. Hotels can now use these technologies to optimise their pricing and other revenue-generating strategies. Importantly, they can now prepare for seasonal fluctuations and any economic climate. On the day-to-day, they can increase their productivity and cut their operational costs, while also focusing on higher-value work instead of tedious, labour-intensive tasks. In this way, big data and AI have leveled the playing field for small businesses, which is welcome news for many industries such as hotels that have typically lagged in the adoption of modern technology.

Jarom Chung, Vice President of Product at Lucid Software

Jarom Chung, Vice President of Product at Lucid Software

To thrive in todays data-rich landscape, AI has emerged as a powerful analysis tool that is able to surface a treasure trove of valuable insights in seconds. Beyond its analytics and generative capabilities, AIs ability to power collaboration and also visual collaboration is often overlooked.

The key to a collaborative workforce lies in the human-AI partnership. We now live in a world where we can brainstorm with AI and use it to instantly summarise complex information and documents (with tools such as Lucids Microsoft 365 Copilot integration) or generate complex diagrams such as flowcharts by entering a prompt. AI has the power to expand our ideas and give teams time back to focus on impactful work. The future of work is not just about automation or data, but about fostering a collaborative environment with AI as a powerful assistant. Despite its potential, Lucids data shows 3 out of 10 employees have not received training on how to collaborate in the modern workplace. To realise the productivity and efficiency gains of using AI in the workplace, business leaders must first prioritise training to effectively build modern workplace collaboration skills.

Joyce Gordon, Head of Generative AI at Amperity

Joyce Gordon, Head of Generative AI at Amperity

One element to powering an effective AI strategy is a unified customer data foundation. The tricky part is that accurately unifying customer data is hard due to its scale and complexity  most consumers have at least two email addresses, have moved over eleven times in their lifetimes and use an average of five channels (or if they are millennials or Gen Z, its actually twelve channels).

Many familiar approaches to unifying customer data are rules-based and use deterministic/fuzzy matching, but these methods are rigid and break down when data doesnt match perfectly. This, in turn, creates an inaccurate customer profile that can actually miss a huge portion of a customers lifetime history with the brand and not account for recent purchases or changes of contact information.

A better way to build a unified data foundation actually involves using AI models (a different flavour of AI than generative AI for marketing) to find the connections between data points to tell if they belong to the same person with the same nuance and flexibility of a human but at massive scale.

When your customer data tools can use AI to unify every touchpoint in the customer journey from first interaction to last purchase and beyond (loyalty, email, website data, etc), the result is a comprehensive customer profile that tells you who your customers are and how they interact with your brand.

Josh Kanner, Sr. Director of Product and Strategy, Construction Intelligence Cloud at Oracle

Josh Kanner, Sr. Director of Product and Strategy, Construction Intelligence Cloud at Oracle

As applications for AI continue to rise across many industries, many companies are looking at this new technology and dreaming up ways they can put it to work for them in helping them accomplish their objectives. For example, in the construction industry and building leaders hope to use AI systems to help them monitor the safety on their sites, automate the creation of draft schedules, and even help locate equipment on the job site.

However, before construction teams can fully reap the benefits of big data and AI, they need to ensure that data is flowing securely! between their work sites and their offices. That means having current photos and reports to pull information from, as well as ensuring any sensors or other collection devices are up-to-date, online, and accurate.

Once a good system is in place to collect the data, the applications of how businesses can leverage AI and predictive intelligence systems are practically endless. For instance, an AI- powered assistant could identify potentially problematic weather, automatically trigger a drone or robotic scan of the worksite and notify site personnel of any equipment or technology that needs to be moved before a storm arrives. But it all begins with reliable, accurate, and secure data.

John Deeb, ANZ Country Manager at Workato

John Deeb, ANZ Country Manager at Workato

This year we have observed the vast advantages AI has demonstrated and the extent to which businesses are leveraging it in various processes. One of the best use cases of AI is its ability to leverage big data and break it down into quantifiable business insights. Tech companies across Australia should be utilising AI to break down their insights or risk losing out to competitors who are far ahead of the curve. In fact, in our 2024 Automation Index, we identified that generative AI is skyrocketing by 400 per cent in business processes.

When businesses efficiently adopt AI to leverage big data, businesses are able to save time and improve their teams productivity by empowering them with all the information available using a single user interface. When businesses implement intelligent automation tools to automate their processes, they experience increased speed, efficiency and the ability to operate continuously. Despite how AI is defined, modern business tools are becoming more versatile, dynamic, and responsive, providing significant benefits to adopting businesses to drive insights with AI. Furthermore, with AI implemented in business process, you become aware of the significant insights within your business and the bottlenecks that need to be resolved.

Andrew Rossington, Chief Product Officer at Teletrac Navman

Andrew Rossington, Chief Product Officer at Teletrac Navman

Small businesses, from florists to electricians, aged care providers and IT support teams, all rely on data to optimise the routes theyre travelling and understand where theyre supposed to be, when delivering goods to their clients.

At Teletrac Navman, our TN360 telematics system and fleet management platform takes data from the vehicle and the drivers in-cab device, including smart dashcams, to turn into actionable insights for the business and its fleet managers. As a small business owner, you need to know where your vehicles are at all times and, if a new job comes in, you can quickly allocate it to the driver whos in the best position to do so efficiently. And by using our telematics, theres the added bonus of improved driver and public safety outcomes, a reduction in fuel usage, and less wear and tear on the vehicle.

With TN360, streams of data become something managers can use, presented in an easy-to-understand format that allows them to act when its needed  as well as reward drivers for a great on-road performance.

Dr. Laura Rusu, CEO and Founder at LENSELL

Dr. Laura Rusu, CEO and Founder at LENSELL

As a business in Fintech, were well-versed in the power of big data and AI. Weve leveraged these tools extensively on Diversiview to analyse and optimise investment portfolios, leading to increased expected returns for our users. This experience has opened our eyes to the broader applications of AI and big data within our business.

Traditional methods like Google Analytics and keyword research offer valuable insights into our audience. By analysing large datasets including website traffic, social media engagement, and search terms, we can identify patterns and emerging opportunities that we can use in our marketing strategy. We further monitor year-over-year (YoY) change to maintain sustainable growth and trend in a positive direction.

With so much data readily available, we can predict with greater accuracy what resonates most with our target audience. AI and large language models (LLMs) allow us to tailor content strategies for different audience segments, ensuring our message is relevant and engaging.

AI isnt a replacement for traditional analytics methods, its a tool that enhances them. By leveraging big data and AI, we gain a deeper understanding of our audience, optimise content strategies, and ultimately strive to provide exceptional value to our users.

Vandana Kumar, Technical Project Manager at Megantic

Vandana Kumar, Technical Project Manager at Megantic

Businesses have access to more data than ever before. However, turning this data into actionable insights and implementing effective strategies can be a complex and overwhelming process.

Focusing on a specific outcome helps you deliver value quickly and excites people about the opportunity. This approach leads you to unexpected places. You may target a particular outcome and organize a data set to achieve it. It takes you to unexpected places, leading you to pursue new outcomes you didnt anticipate. You need to be agile and flexible in your thinking. If you start with one outcome and achieve it, youll be surprised where it leads you next.

Imagine an e-commerce store looking to enhance its marketing strategy and improve customer engagement. By analysing customer purchase history, browsing behaviour, and demographic data, the store can segment its customer base and personalise marketing campaigns based on individual preferences and interests. Additionally, by integrating data analytics into its order fulfilment process, the store can optimise inventory management, reduce shipping times, and enhance the overall shopping experience for customers.

All this can be utilised by AI-powered tools to:

Segment sales history to identify patterns and trends.

Predict product demand by analysing historical sales data.

Help automate inventory management.

Train your AI to analyze customer data to identify behaviours and patterns that indicate churn, such as purchase frequency and product usage.

Harness the power of AI for your business and transform big data into actionable insights!

Jay Jennings, General Manager of Digital at LUSH

Jay Jennings, General Manager of Digital at LUSH

At Lush, we believe its important to find the right balance between harnessing the power of data and AI to improve customer experience, and ensuring that we maintain our commitment to transparency and respect for customer data. As modern users grow increasingly savvy about how their data is used by businesses, so too are we seeing an increase in concern about privacy and the potential for leaks or unethical practices.

Our approach to data focuses on clean, consensual, first party data that aims to improve experiences without compromising trust. Insights are a byproduct. AI is of course a powerful analytical tool, but its important to us that models are trained on data that is bound by the same principles. By fostering trust through ethical data practices, we build stronger, more enduring relationships with our customers.

Emilio Gazis, Global Chief Operating Officer at Altis Consulting

Emilio Gazis, Global Chief Operating Officer at Altis Consulting

It seems everyone now wants to leap into AI to get more value from data, and, overall, thats a good thing  there is certainly plenty of value to be extracted. Our experience, however, is that not everyone is immediately ready to make that leap.

If youre going to be making business-changing decisions informed by data, its vital that you build on a solid foundation. You cant take shortcuts. The information you are basing decisions and modelling on has to be complete, accurate, and measuring the right things, otherwise, its value can be significantly compromised. At Altis, weve developed accelerators and frameworks that can significantly speed up this fundamental process and help clients get value from data faster.

Once you have a good foundation, you also need to ask the right questions of the data. This can also be challenging if you are starting from scratch. Thats why Id recommend that you partner with an organisation like Altis, which has more than 25 years of hands-on experience in data and AI. We have helped many large organisations and government agencies use data to see their business differently.

Konstantin Klyagin, Founder of Redwerk

Konstantin Klyagin, Founder of Redwerk

E-commerce platforms were among the first ones to tap into the potential of big data powered by AI. Every click, search, or purchase leaves a digital footprint we can analyze. Thats how AI-driven product recommendations became a must-have functionality of online stores. Indeed, collecting and analyzing big data is a key to deeper customer understanding, market trends, and operational efficiency.

But the big data and AI duo goes far beyond suggesting the next pair of shoes. Take fintech companies, for example. They can use AI to sift through a customers financial history, spending habits, and creditworthiness in real time, getting immediate insights about the customer and generating a personalized loan offer within minutes. AI algorithms can also help predict potential fraud.

Getting business insights with the help of AI isnt just for big corporations anymore. As data collection and AI capabilities continue to evolve, SMBs get access to readily available yet very powerful AI data analytics tools. For example, we at Redwerk continuously test-drive AI tools for business development, including those that can analyze LinkedIn profiles and posts of prospective customers. This increases our chances of reaching out to the right people.

Alex Newman, Country Manager ANZ at Informatica

Alex Newman, Country Manager ANZ at Informatica

Today, many organisations are realising that everyone is ready for GenAI, but their data is not. Its also no surprise that data management can remain a bottleneck for many, with a recent survey revealing 58% of global Chief Data Officers reporting they need five or more data management tools to manage their data estates. As organisations drown in data, yet starve for trusted insights, this is no longer a sustainable approach to win in business.

To deliver real value, GenAI needs organisational data to provide differentiated customer value and understand business contexts. The ability to seamlessly navigate complex data ecosystems is no longer nice-to-have, but a necessity. Organisations today need holistic, accurate, protectedand accessible data to get AI that is trusted, accurate, responsible and widely adopted.

New innovations such as CLAIRE GPT uses GenAI to help manage data and bring the power of data to more users, including line-of-business users. Acting as a smart assistant, it leverages large language models to deliver chat interfaces, making it easier for stakeholders to automate complex data workflows. This can help organisations become more productive, makes data management tasks simpler and drives better business decision making.

Andrew Gunnis, Founder and Managing Director of GPTStrategic

Andrew Gunnis, Founder and Managing Director of GPTStrategic

Theyre an emerging technology and are only presently on the radar of early adopters. But AI agents will undoubtedly play an increasingly central role in processing vast amounts of structured and unstructured data and preparing it for analysis. AI agents and chatbots are sometimes confused, but agents are far more sophisticated and powerful. They can do things chatbots cant, such as analyse historical data to predict future trends.

AI agents are already helping some of the more innovative Australian businesses gain insights from data that would otherwise be too complex or voluminous to wrangle. While you probably havent heard anything about organisations leveraging AI agents to generate actionable insights yet, you can expect to over the next 6-12 months.

Paul Nguyen, Founder and Director of Creative Culture HQ

Paul Nguyen, Founder and Director of Creative Culture HQ

I encourage businesses to forget limitations in favour of leveraging every tool at their disposal. Big data and AI can absolutely seem daunting at first, but this technology can and are transforming how businesses gain insights. Its similar to the way the World Wide Web transformed businesses in the 90s.

As a digital marketing agency owner, I see these technologies as powerful tools to unlock deep consumer behavior and market trends. We analyse data patterns to craft laser-focused campaigns that resonate with our clients target audiences and drive behaviour change.

I would encourage all business leaders to embrace the data age. A data-driven approach skyrockets engagement, conversion rates, and fuels informed decisions that allow businesses to unlock their full potential and keep ahead of the curve.

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The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has unveiled a $30 million grant initiative aimed at expanding the network of Womens Business Centers (WBCs).

This funding will support the establishment of a new WBC in the U.S. Virgin Islands and provide specialized resources for centers focusing on federal contracting and childcare businesses.

SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman underscored the significance of this initiative, stating that the expanded WBC network will enhance support for women entrepreneurs. Virtual counseling and training services will now be accessible to women-owned small businesses nationwide, including those in rural areas, tribal lands, and military families, Guzman said.

The specialized WBCs will join an existing network of 152 centers across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status that offer entrepreneurial services to women, particularly those in socially and economically disadvantaged areas, are eligible to apply for the funding.

Eligible organizations can receive up to $150,000 to open and operate a WBC. The four funding opportunities include:

Supporting Women Business Owners in Government Contracting: Assisting with application readiness for certification in the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (EDWOSB) Programs, procurement assistance, and entrepreneurial development. Childcare Services: Providing entrepreneurial development services to women-owned small businesses focused on childcare services. General Entrepreneurial Development: Offering general entrepreneurial development services to women, with an emphasis on socially and economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs in areas outside the geographical reach of existing WBCs, with the option to provide mostly or entirely virtual services. New WBC in the U.S. Virgin Islands: Supporting the opening of a new Womens Business Center in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Christina Hale, Assistant Administrator for the SBAs Office of Womens Business Ownership, highlighted the positive impact of these new centers. Every new WBC helps open doors for women entrepreneurs who need access to training and practical assistance to stand up and grow their small businesses. By investing in womens economic potential, the SBA is fostering innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities, Hale stated.

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Vodafone Group Plc is further cutting its stake in India's largest telecom tower company, Indus Towers, as the British telecom giant looks to pare bank borrowings.



On Wednesday, Vodafone said it sold 484.7 million shares amounting to 18 per cent stake in Indus Towers, raising Rs 15,300 crore or around 1.7 billion. The shares were sold through block deals on the stock exchange.



Vodafone had initially planned to sell around 10 per cent, but strong investor interest prompted it to raise it significantly, according to Reuters.



Post this stake sale, Vodafone will now only be holding 82.5 million shares or 3.1 per cent stake in Indus Towers.



Indus has over 2,19,736 towers and a presence across all the 22 telecom circles. Bharti Airtel, India's second-largest telecom operator, is the largest shareholder in the company with a stake of 47.95 per cent. While Vodafone was cutting its stake, Bharti Airtel, on Wednesday, acquired 26.95 million shares or 1 per cent additional equity in Indus Towers via open market operations.



Vodafone had announced in 2022 that it intended to sell its entire stake in Indus Towers. The proceeds from Wednesday's share sale will be used to substantially repay its existing lenders in relation to the outstanding bank borrowings of 1.8 billion secured against Indian assets, Vodafone said in a regulatory filing.



Vodafone had, a few years ago, already written off the value of much of its investments in Vodafone Idea, its telecom joint venture with Aditya Birla Group in the backdrop of rising competition and losses in the Indian unit.



Mounting losses at Vodafone Idea (VI) had also hurt Indus Towers hard as VI was the second largest tenant. VI raised Rs 18,000 crore through a follow-on share sale in April. Analysts at BNP Paribas said in their report that the fund raise by VI would be a "game changer" for Indus Towers as it would be able to collect its past dues and get incremental business from VI.



At the same time, Bharti Airtel, over the last few quarters, accelerated its tower investments to expand its rural 4G footprint, which resulted in stronger tower additions for Indus Towers, the analysts noted.



On Wednesday, Indus Towers shares fell almost 7 per cent to a intra-day low of Rs 320.60 on the BSE, before recovering some of the losses. They were trading at Rs 334.50, down 2.7 per cent in the afternoon. Vodafone Idea shares were up 2.4 per cent at Rs 17.26 and Bharti Airtel traded down 1.9 per cent at Rs 1,402.15.
Tollywood star Allu Arjun's much-awaited movie Pushpa 2: The Rule has a new release date and will now hit the theatres worldwide on December 6, the makers have announced.

Directed by Sukumar, Pushpa 2: The Rule is a sequel to Arjun's Pushpa 1: The Rise, which had turned out to be a huge blockbuster in the country after its release in December 2021.

In a social media post on Monday, production banner Mythri Movie Makers shared the new release date of the movie, which was earlier slated for come in cinemas on August 15.

"We intend to give you the best. The wait increases for a memorable experience on the big screens. #Pushpa2TheRule Grand release worldwide on 6th DECEMBER 2024. His rule will be phenomenal. His rule will be unprecedented," the studio posted along with a brand new poster.

Mythri Movie Makers also released a statement, explaining the reason behind postponing the release.

"'Pushpa 2: The Rule' is one of the most anticipated Indian films. Following the immense success of Pushpa: The Rise, our responsibility to deliver excellence has increased significantly. We have been tirelessly working to complete the movie and release it on time.

"However, due to the remaining shoot and subsequent post-production work, we will not be releasing the film on August 15th, 2024," the studio.

The company said the decision was made in the best interests of the "film, the audience, and all stakeholders".

"Our goal is to provide a memorable experience on the big screen without compromising quality," the statement added.

The studio has so far released a teaser of the film as well as two songs"Pushpa Pushpa" and "Sooseki"and it said the "overwhelming response" across all languages has been "heartening".

"We promise to deliver a film that you will truly love. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the audiences and our partners worldwide for their unwavering support. The media and film industries have also been incredibly supportive.

"'Pushpa 2: The Rule' will now be released worldwide on December 6th, 2024. We are committed to giving you the best, and you will see only the best in cinemas," the statement concluded.

Also starring Rashmika Mandanna, "Pushpa: The Rise" depicted the rise of a low wage labourer (Arjun) in the smuggling syndicate of red sandalwood, a rare wood that grows only in the Seshachalam Hills of Andhra Pradesh state.

The first part had set up a clash between Arjun's titular character and Malayalam star Fahadh Faasil's menacing inspector Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat.

"Pushpa 2: The Rule" is produced by Naveen Yerneni and Y Ravi Shankar of Mythri Movie Makers in association with Sukumar Writings.
In a fresh twist to the murder case involving popular Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and his friend Pavithra Gowda, Sridhar, manager of the actor's farmhouse, was found dead at the farmhouse in Bengaluru.

According to media reports, Sridhar died by suicide. He left behind a suicide note and video message in which he requested the police not to involve his family members in the investigation and claimed full responsibility for the extreme step, reported Times of India.

The deceased cited the feeling of loneliness as the reason for deciding to end his life.

Meanwhile, the police have begun a probe to determine if the suicide has anything to do with the ongoing investigation into the murder case involving Darshan.

As many as 17 people, including Darshan and Pavithra Gowda, have been arrested in connection with the murder of Renukaswamy, who had allegedly sent some obscene messages to Gowda on social media.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said there was no need to hand over the Renukaswamy murder case to the CBI as the police were doing a good job in their investigation without succumbing to any pressure.

"There should not be any politics in this case. I am saying this because I have seen various reports in the media. This incident should not have happened, but it did. There could have been some statements but we will not bow to any pressure," Parameshwara said.
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a severe hereditary blood disorder that poses a significant public health challenge in India, particularly in regions with high malaria rates, known as the "sickle belt," which extends from West Bengal, Orissa, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Bihar to Maharashtra and Gujarat. The disease significantly impacts longevity, reducing the average life expectancy to 20-30 years, and leads to a poor quality of life characterised by pain and suffering. Despite its severity, SCD has failed to receive the attention it deserves. Every year, an estimated 30,000 children in the country are born with SCD, adding to the over two crore existing patients. Given its devastating impact, it is crucial to prioritise sickle cell care in India.

The launch of the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission by the Union government last year was a positive step but its scope may fall short in effectively combating sickle cell anaemia. Targeted interventions are necessary to address the complexities of this disease. A centralised database that includes information on patients and disease carriers is essential. Such a repository would facilitate timely treatment delivery and preventive measures, ensuring that those affected receive appropriate care. By implementing focused strategies and harnessing the power of data-driven approaches, the mission can significantly enhance its impact in the fight against sickle cell anaemia.

Several systematic changes are required to implement the mission effectively. In rural and tribal areas of the country, where healthcare infrastructure is particularly lacking, individuals and families bear a significant burden. It is crucial to enhance healthcare infrastructure in these under-served regions to tackle the increasing threat of SCD. Primary healthcare centres (PHCs) should be upgraded with essential medical supplies, point-of-care diagnostic tools, and emergency care protocols. Training healthcare workers to recognise and treat complications of SCD, such as pain crises and infections, is crucial. Besides, establishing specialised sickle cell centres in high-burden areas can provide comprehensive care, including advanced pain management, infection prevention, and psychological support.

Multidisciplinary teams, consisting of medical specialists, nurses, and social workers, can address the complex needs of SCD patients through integrated care plans. Genetic counselling services should also be made available to individuals and families affected by SCD to help them understand their carrier status and make informed reproductive choices. This can help significantly reduce the incidence of SCD in future generations.

Strong public-private partnerships are essential to overcome infrastructural challenges and skills gaps. The governments (both central and state) also needs to develop schemes that make bone marrow transplants, the only curative option for SCD, accessible to affected patients, similar to the Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojna for thalassemia patients.

A child born with sickle cell anaemia faces a life filled with extraordinary challenges and constant health struggles. The sickle-shaped red blood cells cause blockages in blood flow, leading to frequent episodes of intense pain known as sickle cell crises. These painful episodes can be disabling and often require hospitalisation and strong pain management. Additionally, these children have an increased risk of infections due to compromised immune function. They also experience frequent or persistent anaemia, acute chest syndrome, and even stroke. As a result, regular medical check-ups and preventive care, including prophylactic antibiotics, are necessary.

The disease not only affects the physical well-being of these children but also their mental, emotional, and social well-being. Common symptoms among these children include delayed puberty, shorter stature compared to their peers, constant fatigue, and anaemia, which limit their ability to participate in physical and social activities.

Emotionally, the chronic nature of the disease can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression. Adding to their trauma are widespread misconceptions, as some communities consider sickle cell disease a curse. Many people in these communities do not understand the genetic nature of SCD, instead attributing its symptoms to curses, poor lifestyle choices, or infectious diseases. This misunderstanding fosters fear and discrimination, resulting in social isolation for affected individuals and their families.

The consequences are significant, as most children with SCD in resource-limited countries like India do not survive past their second decade of life. Frequent hospital visits, lost productivity, and the financial burden of medical expenses worsen poverty and social inequality.

This is unfortunate and unacceptable because the disease is preventable. Simple screening programs can identify carriers and affected individuals early on. Couples at risk of having children with SCD should receive counselling about their reproductive options. New-born screening is especially effective as it allows for early intervention and improves health outcomes.

SCD is particularly prevalent in India's tribal populations and regions where malaria is endemic. This correlation is not coincidental. The sickle cell trait provides a selective advantage against malaria, which has led to its increased frequency in malaria-endemic regions. Individuals with the sickle cell trait have a lower risk of severe malaria, resulting in higher survival rates and the persistence of the trait in these populations.

Further research is also needed to enhance our understanding of SCD and develop improved curative treatments such as gene therapy. Government funding can play an important role in supporting studies on the genetic, environmental, and social factors that influence the disease.

On this World Sickle Cell Day, which is observed on June 19 every year, it is a timely reminder of the urgent need to address this public health challenge with sustained efforts. By improving healthcare infrastructure, expanding genetic counselling, and promoting research, we can make significant strides in the fight against SCD and improve the lives of those affected.

The writer is a paediatric haematologist in New Delhi, and a researcher, innovating cell therapy solutions.
The National Testing Agency has cancelled the University Grants Commission  National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET), a day after it was held across the country, following prima facie indications that the integrity of exam was compromised.

The Union Education Ministry said the UGC-NET will be conducted afresh and that the matter will be probed by the CBI.

In a statement, the ministry informed that the UGC received certain inputs from the National Cyber Crime Threat Analysis Unit, which prima facie indicated that the integrity of the examination has been compromised.

"To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, the Ministry of Education, Government of India has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination be cancelled, it said.

A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately. Simultaneously, the matter is being handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for thorough investigation, it added.

The decision to cancel the exam comes amid a massive row on the medical entrance exam NEET over alleged irregularities, with the issue now before the Supreme Court.

In a shift from earlier practice, the NET was conducted in pen and paper mode this time on a single day -June 18- with a record 11 lakh students registering for the exam.

UGC-NET is a test to determine the eligibility of Indian nationals for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges.

Awarding of JRF and eligibility for Assistant Professorship depends on the aggregate performance of the candidate in Paper-I and Paper-II of UGC-NET. The candidates qualifying only for Assistant Professorship are not to be considered for the awarding of JRF.

Candidates who qualify the eligibility test for Assistant Professorship are governed by the rules and regulations for recruitment of Assistant Professor of the universities/colleges/state governments concerned, as the case may be, as per information published on the NTA website.
Amid the ongoing water crisis in the national capital, Delhi Water Minister Atishi, on Wednesday, threatened to go on an indefinite strike from June 21 if the issue is not resolved within a couple of days.

Atishi said Delhi is grappling with a water crisis since Haryana is not releasing the capital's share of water.

The minister had last week requested Haryana to give additional water to Delhi on humanitarian grounds. The Upper Yamuna River Board had advised Delhi and Haryana to hold a bilateral meeting and consider whether Haryana could give extra water to Delhi.

"Yesterday, Haryana released 513 MGD (million gallons per day) of water to Delhi as against 613 MGD. One MGD of water is for 28,500 people. This means that water was not released for over 28 lakh people," she said during a press conference.

"Today I have written a letter to the prime minister saying that 28 lakh people in Delhi are not getting water. I have requested that he should help provide water as soon as possible. If the people of Delhi do not get their rightful share of water by June 21, I will be forced to do a Satyagraha," the minister said.

The minister said they have written multiple letters to the Haryana government to resolve the issue.

BJP stages protest

Meanwhile, Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, along with other party workers, staged a protest outside Delhi Jal Board Office over the water crisis in the national capital.

"Our protest is in regards to water (supply). The people of Delhi are yearning for every drop of water and AAP MLAs and ministers are selling water. If this theft and black marketing stops, Delhi can get water," Sachdeva said.

"People are craving for every drop of water. Women spent nights waiting for water tankers while children in many areas are not able to take a bath for days due to scarcity," he said.

On Saturday, the Congress too had held protests across the city against the water shortage by smashing earthen pots on the ground.
ELKO  Prosecutors are not seeking the death penalty against William L. Kerr, who was charged with open murder in the shooting death of a man in an Idaho Street motel room last week.

Elko County District Attorney Tyler Ingram filed a criminal complaint in Elko Justice Court on Friday charging Kerr with open murder, including first-degree murder, in the death of Charles Wanamaker, 56, at the Travelers Motel on June 10.

Kerr, 54, will not need special defense counsel appointed to him as the state does not intend to impose the death penalty if he is convicted of first-degree murder, Ingram stated in the complaint.

Kerr was also charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, a category B felony, and being a habitual criminal, a category A felony related to the firearm charge.

Court documents described Kerrs multiple felony convictions, including four between 1998 and 2002 in Clark County, for ex-felon in possession of a firearm and trafficking in a controlled substance, along with two separate convictions for evading a police officer.

Four years later, he was convicted in Elko Countys Fourth Judicial Court for trafficking in a controlled substance on Feb. 27, 2006. About two weeks later, he was sentenced on charges stemming from a two-hour police pursuit. He was accused of driving into oncoming traffic at times and slamming his minivan into a patrol vehicle.

Kerr received prison time on felony charges of battery with a deadly weapon, failure to stop at the scene of an accident resulting in personal injury or death, eluding a police officer in a manner posing a danger to persons or property and assault with a deadly weapon, among other offenses.

While in prison, Kerr was charged and convicted of one felony count of battery by a prisoner in Lincoln County District Court in 2016.

He was denied parole four times before it was granted on Feb. 24, 2022. He served 16 years.

Kerrs first bail hearing in Justice Court presided by Justice of the Peace Randall Soderquist was continued on June 11 for good cause. Prosecutors believed Kerr may have been under the influence of cocaine.

The bail hearing had been scheduled about 14 hours after his arrest.

On Monday, Kerr made a second bail hearing appearance in Elko Justice Court before Judge Pro Tem David Lockie via teleconference from the Elko County Jail courtroom.

During the second hearing, Kerr was represented by attorney Diana Hillewaert, who was appointed as his defense counsel. The Elko County Public Defenders office filed a notice of disqualification on June 12.

The state was represented by Deputy District Attorney Ryan McCormick.

After listening to the prosecution and defense statements, Lockie increased Kerrs bail to $500,000 from $100,000 attached to the firearms charge and ordered him to remain in custody.

If convicted, Kerr faces life in prison without the possibility of parole and up to 10 years to life for the habitual criminal charge.

Additional prison time could be added for the use of a deadly weapon if he is found guilty of murder.

A preliminary hearing date is pending.

Kerrs arrest

Kerr was arrested in the early morning hours of June 11 by the Elko SWAT Team at a Second Street residence on a search warrant, using distraction devices and chemical agents. He was found hiding in a bedroom under blankets.

Hours before Kerr was taken into custody, law enforcement was notified of a shooting at the motel by a woman who told police she overheard Kerr having an argument with Wanamaker while speaking to Kerr on the phone.

She said Kerr had met with Wanamaker to discuss a job as a bricklayer.

According to the Nevada Department of Corrections, Wanamaker also had a criminal record and was recently released on parole.

Kerr then called the woman in a panic and told her Wanamaker had come at him, and Kerr shot him in the neck.

The woman found Kerr at her home and drove him back to the motel to see if police had arrived.

Seeing no law enforcement at the motel, she left Kerr there and hid his phone in a pipe in the downtown parking corridor.

Afterward, the woman decided she did not want to become involved in a possible homicide and contacted authorities, telling them where to find his phone.

Police found Wanamakers body in a motel room, shot dead with a bullet in his neck below his right ear. They also obtained a search warrant for the womans car and found a bag with a Ruger P85 9mm firearm, clothing and a lanyard with keys to a vehicle registered to Kerr.

Kerr was spotted by police entering the womans residence. The SWAT Team then arrived, calling Kerr to surrender. He refused to respond when the team deployed devices to get him out of the home.

Police asked the public to avoid driving through the area and remain in their homes as the SWAT Team worked to bring Kerr out of the house.

Kerr was taken into custody after 1 a.m. on June 11. Police said he would not cooperate with detectives, admitting only that he had dropped Wanamaker off at the hotel before stopping the interview.

A background check with the Elko County Sheriffs Office revealed Kerr had not registered with local law enforcement agencies since 2022.
A Mumbai-bound IndiGo flight from Chennai and more than 60 establishments in Mumbai, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), hospitals and colleges received bomb threats on Tuesday.

The flight has landed safely at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai at 10.30 pm after the threat message was received at IndiGo's call centre in New Delhi. All 196 passengers and seven crew members aboard the flight, 6E 5149, have disembarked safely, the airline stated.

"IndiGo flight 6E 5149, operating from Chennai to Mumbai, had received a bomb threat. Upon landing in Mumbai, the crew followed protocol and the aircraft was taken to an isolation bay," the airline said in a statement.

"We are working with security agencies and post completion of all security checks, the aircraft will be positioned back in the terminal area," it added.

On Tuesday, other airports, including Chennai, Patna, Jaipur, Nagpur, Varanasi, Vadodara, Coimbatore and Jabalpur also received bomb threat emails and all of them were found to be hoax threats after searches were carried out.

However, in Mumbai, the airport was not the only one to receive threats on Tuesday. Searches were carried out in hospitals, colleges and government establishments are bomb threats were sent from a single mail id.

"The emails received on Tuesday were similar to those received on Monday, which said that there was a bomb threat to prominent private, state and civic-run hospitals and colleges across the city," a police official told news agency PTI, adding that an investigation was underway.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Nalanda University Campus in Rajgir, Bihar, on June 19. This University is built near the ancient center of knowledge, Nalanda Mahavihara, which has a rich history of centuries of learning. The Prime Minister asserted that he wanted India to re-emerge as the world's most prominent knowledge center with an advanced and research-oriented higher education system.



Here are ten things about Nalanda you may like to know.

1. Nalanda Mahavihara

The Nalanda Mahavihara was an ancient Buddhist monastery and educational institution in Magadha (modern-day Bihar). It engaged in the study and research of Buddhist philosophy along with being a flourishing space of discussion for numerous other subjects.

2. Teaching of a multitude of subjects

The primary teaching of Nalanda was Buddhist philosophy. However, students and teachers engaged in the discussion of various subjects. They include logic, grammar, astronomy, medicine, and mathematics.

3. Longevity

The institution was a place of learning from the fifth century CE to the thirteenth century CE. This means that it was the seat of knowledge in India for 800 years.

4. The zero connection

Aryabhata, credited with the invention of zero, is speculated to have been the kulapati (head) of Nalanda during the sixth century CE.

5. The Xuanzang connection

Xuanzang is a Chinese Buddhist monk. He is believed to have travelled to India through the silk route and stumbled upon Nalanda, where he lived for many years, teaching and learning from this knowledge centre. He returned to China with various scriptures on Buddhism. He translated them into Chinese, spreading Buddhist philosophies in China.

6. Dharmaganj

Nalanda University was home to a colossal library filled with palm manuscripts. The approximately nine million manuscripts were stored in the library called Dharmaganj. It comprised of three buildings named Ratnasagar, Ratnodadhi, and Ratnaranjak. One of the buildings had as many as nine stories. The libraries are said to have flourished through the twelfth century till Bakhityar Khiliji destroyed the University and set fire to the library.

7. Discovery

After the destruction of the University, it underwent a decline and was forgotten for six centuries. Its ruins were discovered by Francis Buchanan in 1812 and identified as the esteemed Nalanda University by Alexandar Cunningham in 1861. The site was excavated and systematically consolidated by the Archaeological Survey of India from 1915 to 1937 and from 1974 to 1982.

8. Nalanda University Bill

Following APJ Abdul Kalams vision to revive the ancient University of Nalanda, the Nalanda University Bill, 2010, was introduced in Rajya Sabha on August 12, 2010. It was passed by the Rajya Sabha on August 21, 2010, and the Lok Sabha on August 26, 2010. The bill received presidential assent on September 21, 2010, and became an act. The act was implemented, and the University was officially established on November 25, 2010.

9. World Heritage Site

The Nalanda site was added to the Tentative List of World Heritage on January 9, 2009. The Archaeological Survey of India then prepared a nomination report for Excavated Remains of Nalanda Mahavihara and submitted it to the World Heritage Committee in January 2015. On July 15, 2016, Nalanda became a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

10. Current situation

PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated the new Nalanda University Campus. It houses facilities like solar plant, water treatment plant, water recycling plant, and hundred acres of water bodies contributing to its promise of being a Net Zero Green Campus. The University has two academic blocks with a seating capacity of 1900 divided into 40 classrooms. It has an impressive infrastructure that includes two 300-seat auditoriums, a hostel with a capacity for 550 students, and an amphitheatre that can hold up to 2000 individuals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar's Rajgir.

Established through the Nalanda University Act, 2010, the new campus of the university is close to the site of the ancient ruins of Nalanda.

Modi unveiled a plaque at the new campus as he inaugurated the campus. The prime minister also planted a sapling on the campus.

Modi said the rebuilding of Nalanda is going to start the golden era of India. "Nalanda's reawakening, this new campus, will give the world an introduction to India's capability," he added.

" I am happy that I got the opportunity to visit Nalanda within 10 days after swearing in as prime minister for the third time. Nalanda is not just a name, it is an identity and respect. Nalanda is a value and mantra fire can burn books but it can't destroy knowledge," Modi said.

Interim Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University Prof Abhay Kumar Singh felicitated Modi on the occasion.

Nalanda University served a larger role by connecting our society with those our near and far neighbours through land and sea. The universities destruction marked a downturn in our history and is continued through the colonial period. In that era, we not only saw a decline in our capabilities and confidence but in our connectivity as well with those nations who are now members of the East Asia Summit. In the rebuilding of Nalanda University, there are multiple messages, both national and international," said External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at the inauguration of the new campus.

About the new campus

The new university started functioning in 2014 from a makeshift location with 14 students. Construction work on the university started in 2017.

The university has participation from 17 other nations apart from IndiaAustralia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. These countries have signed MoUs in support of the university.

The university offers 137 scholarships to international students.

Apart from Modi and Jaishankar, Bihar Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha, and the ambassadors of 17 countries attended the event.

Ahead of the inaguration, the PM visited the ruins of ancient Nalanda, a UNESCO world heritage site, in Rajgir.

Before his Nalanda visit, Modi tweeted, "It's a very special day for our education sector. The new campus of the Nalanda University would be inaugurated at Rajgir. Nalanda has a strong connect with our glorious past. This university will surely go a long way in catering to the educational needs of the youth".
In what comes as a major jolt for the Haryana Congress ahead of the assembly polls in the state in October, senior party leader Kiran Choudhry and her daughter Shruti Choudhry quit the party and joined the BJP.

Kiran Choudhry and Shruti Choudhry resigned from the primary membership of the Congress on Tuesday. Shruti was also the working president of the Haryana unit of the Congress.

The mother-daughter duo joined the saffron party in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Union minister Manohar Lal Khattar and party national general secretary Tarun Chugh.

After joining the BJP, Kiran Choudhry claimed that the Congress has become an individual-centric party in Haryana. "I was a very dedicated worker of the Congress. I dedicated my life to Congress with hard work. But for a few years, I watched the Haryana Congress become an individual-centric party. They didn't want Congress to go ahead and followed such policies. So, you can understand that Congress would have never progressed in Haryana. Big leaders quit the party due to them. I took this step to ensure that my workers get their due rights, equal rights," news agency ANI quoted her as saying.

I am inspired by the prime minister, who has taken historic decisions for the welfare of the country and made India's name shine across the world. It is a matter of pride for us that Modi ji and Khattar ji have worked with Chaudhary Bansi Lal ji. The way Bansi Lal worked hard, we are joining the BJP with the same hard work," Shruti Choudhry, who the working president of the Haryana unit of the Congress, was quoted as saying.

Kiran Choudhry is the daughter-in-law of former Haryana chief minister Bansi Lal.

'Haryana Congress being run as personal fiefdom'

In their resignation letters, the duo took a veiled dig at former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, alleging that the party's state unit is being run as a "personal fiefdom".

"It is most unfortunate that the Congress party in Haryana is being run as the personal fiefdom leaving no space for sincere voices like mine, who have been stifled, humiliated and conspired against in a most well-orchestrated and systematic manner, thus, significantly hampering my diligent efforts to represent our people and uphold the values, I have always stood for," wrote Kiran Choudhry in her letter to Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge.

"The Congress party in Haryana has, unfortunately, become one-person centric who has compromised the interest of the party for his own selfish and petty interests and it is thus time for me to move on so that I may continue to uphold the interest of my people and the values that I stand for," the resignation letter of Shruti Choudhry read.

Congress plays it down

The Congress has claimed that the departure of the mother-daughter duo won't affect the electoral prospects of the party. "No this isn't affecting Congress at all. She (Kiran Choudhry) said that Congress has no future in Haryana, so she is going there where she thinks her future is secured. She left because her daughter was not given a ticket, this has nothing to do with ideology," news agency ANI quoted Haryana Congress chief Udai Bhan as saying.






Last year, a high-level committee for social sciences, constituted by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to revise the school curriculum, recommended that the word 'India' should be replaced with 'Bharat' in the school textbooks for all classes, sparking a debate.

In the wake of the recommendation, the Kerala government sought the intervention of the Central government to reconsider the suggestion made by the panel.

Now, wading into the 'India' vs 'Bharat' debate, spiritual guru and founder of the Isha Foundation, Sadhguru said, we should have reclaimed the name Bharat as soon as the British left.

A name will not do everything but it is important the country is named in a way that reverberates in everyones heart. Even though the Nation means everything to us, the word India has no meaning. If we are unable or unwilling to change the name of the Nation officially, it is time we at least bring Bharat into our daily parlance. Younger generations must know that Bharat existed long before India was born, Sadhguru said in a tweet.

Sadhguru also congratulated NCERT in his tweet.

A few days ago, NCERT chief Dinesh Prasad Saklani had said 'Bharat' and 'India' will be used interchangeably in NCERT textbooks as is the case in the country's Constitution.

"It is interchangeable....our position is what our Constitution says and we uphold that. We can use Bharat, we can use India, what is the problem? We are not in that debate. Wherever it suits we will use India, wherever it suits we will use Bharat. We have no aversion to either India or Bharat," he said during an interaction with news agency PTI.

"You can see both being used in our textbooks already and that will continue in new textbooks. This is a useless debate," Saklani added.
The daughter of Rajya Sabha MP Beeda Masthan Rao who belongs to Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy's YSRCP, has allegedly fatally rammed a man lying on a footpath with her BMW in Chennai's Besant Nagar.

The driver, Madhuri, was arrested and released on bail by Chennai police on Tuesday. The victim, who was identified as Surya, was allegedly drunk and was lying on the pavement when Madhuri ran over him. The 24-year-old man, who was a painter, died of his injuries.

The woman claimed that she failed to notice the man. She was tracked down using the phone number she used to call the ambulance.

Madhuri and her friend reportedly fled the spot after the crowd got agitated. Onlookers rushed Surya to a hospital after the ambulance arrived but he succumbed to his injuries.

A case was filed under IPC section 304 (a) for causing death by negligence after the victim's wife lodged a complaint. When police checked the car registration using CCTV footage, they found that the Puducherry-registered vehicle belonged to Beeda Masthan Rao's BMR Group.

Who is Beeda Masthan Rao?

Beeda Masthan Rao aka B.M. Rao, who is the chairman of BMR Group, a shrimp farming and exports firm with plants in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. The conglomerate has a 50,000 square feet factory in Dhamavaram as well as other facilities in Chennai, Nellore, Kavali and Ramatheertham.

A backward class leader belonging to the Yadava community, his political journey began with TDP in 1983 and was elected as MLA from Kavali Assembly seat in 2004 and 2009. He lost to YSRCP candidate from Kavali in 2014. In 2019, he contested from Nellore Lok Sabha seat but lost to YSRCP candidate.

He was also a member of the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority.

In December 2019, Rao joined the YSRCP after quitting TDP over "personal reasons." He became a Rajya Sabha MP in 2022.
Congress leader and Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar dropped a strong hint that he may contest the Channapatna assembly byelections.

Channapatna goes to bypolls as Janata Dal (Secular) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy vacated the seat after being elected to Lok Sabha in the recent general elections.

"Channapatna is in my heart. It was part of the erstwhile Sathanur assembly constituency, which I represented. My political career actually started there. The people of Channaptna have been with me in tough times and I have a debt to repay, Shivakumar told reporters in Bengaluru.

"There is an opportunity to develop Channapatna in the same way I have developed Kanakapura. I am visiting the temples of the constituency and discussing with the local leaders and voters, will take a decision on contesting later," he was further quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

Asked whether his brother and former MP D.K. Suresh will be contesting from Channapatna, he said: "that is not decided. More or less, I'm asking the votes for myself."

There were talks that Suresh, who lost to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s CN Manjhunath from Bengalore North Lok Sabha seat, may be fielded in Channapatna.

News agency PTI quoted sources as saying that if Shivakumar contests and wins from Channapatna, he may vacate the Kanakapura Assembly seat that he currently represents for Suresh.

"Channapatana gave me political birth. For four times I have won in a hobli from Channapatna that came under my Assembly constituency. People there have blessed me," Shivakumar said.

The byelection schedule for this Assembly seat is yet to be announced by the Election Commission.

Kumaraswamy represented Channapatna twicein 2018 and 2023while Shivakumar has been representing Kanakapura since 2008. Both constituencies are part of the Vokkaliga dominated Ramanagara district.
Amid much promised fanfare, the inauguration of the new campus of Nalanda University next to the serene ancient ruins in Bihars Rajgir on Wednesday has got its deserved attention.



Besides Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and other top officials, the event was attended by the ambassadors of 17 participating countries.

The new campus may well be a suitable metaphor for Indias developing diplomatic strategy that focuses on the nations Buddhist heritage. After all, it was in India that the founder of Buddhism preached his philosophy of the impermanence of everything.

PM Modi posted on X: Visiting the excavated remains was exemplary. It was an opportunity to be at one of the greatest seats of learning in the ancient world.

Quite in alignment with Indias professed stature of vishwa bandhu, the PM added, Nalanda has created an intellectual spirit that continues to thrive in our nation.

Pointing out that the universitys destruction marked a downturn in Indias history making way for a dark phase, Jaishankar was more upfront, In the rebuilding of the Nalanda University, there are multiple messages, both national and international it underlines Bharats endeavour to emerge as a Vishwa Bandhu It reflects the seriousness with which we pursue our Act East policy.

The Act East policy focuses to promote closer ties with the countries in the extended neighbourhood in the Asia-Pacific regionincluding Vietnamin pursuit of the countrys political, strategic and cultural aims.

An international university now, the decision to set up the university was taken in 2010 but it started in 2014 from a makeshift location with just 14 students while construction work began three years later.

Set up in the fifth century, the Nalanda University drew students and scholars from all over the world. It flourished for about 800 years before it was razed to the ground by invaders in the 12th century.

The 17 nations that have signed MoUs in support of the university include Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The University has been attracting foreign students year on year. For PG programmes in the last three academic years, there were 169 international students in 2021-22, 173 in 2022-23 and 253 for 2023-24.
Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully de-orbited the cryogenic upper stage of the Launch Vehicle Mark-III (LVM3), Indias heaviest rocket. This was the second time that ISRO achieved this feat, showcasing its commitment to sustainable space operations. The upper stage, which played a crucial role in launching the OneWeb-2 mission, made a planned re-entry into Earths atmosphere on June 14. This step is part of ISROs ongoing efforts to ensure responsible space exploration.

The LVM3 is a game-changer for India's space ambitions. With a payload capacity exceeding 4 metric tons to geostationary transfer orbit, the LVM3 can shoulder the weight of far heavier satellites and even more ambitious missions. It plays a critical role in several endeavors.

After successfully placing 36 OneWeb satellites into orbit on March 26, 2023, the nearly 3-ton rocket body was left at an altitude of 450 kilometres. Identified by NORAD as object 56082, it has now been safely de-orbited and removed from space. Following standard procedures, the upper stage was made safe by using any leftover fuel to reduce the risk of accidental explosions.

The re-entry happened as scheduled, with most of the stage burning up over the Indian Ocean. Only a few parts, such as gas bottles, nozzles and tanks, made of materials that can withstand very high temperatures, were expected to survive the intense heat of re-entry. The LVM3 rocket has three stages and includes two solid rocket boosters (S200), a liquid core stage (L110) and a powerful cryogenic upper stage (C25). The S200 boosters are among the largest in the world, each containing 204 tons of solid fuel. The L110 stage is equipped with two liquid engines and carries 115 tons of liquid fuel. The C25 cryogenic upper stage features a high-thrust cryogenic engine (CE20) and has 28 tons of fuel, explained space expert Girish Linganna.

ISRO had announced that the cryogenic upper stage of the LVM3 M4 rocket, which launched the Chandrayaan-3 moon mission, re-entered Earths atmosphere uncontrollably on November 15 at about 2.42 pm. This stage, identified by NORAD as 57321, was part of the rocket that successfully placed Chandrayaan-3 into its intended orbit on July 14, 2023. The re-entry took place 124 days after launch, in compliance with the 25-year rule for low-Earth orbit (LEO) objects set by the United Nations and Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination Committee (IADC). This guideline requires that objects in LEO re-enter Earths atmosphere and burn up within 25 years of the end of their mission to minimize space debris.

As per ISRO after placing Chandrayaan-3 into orbit, the upper stage underwent a process to eliminate any remaining fuel and energy sources, called passivation, which means making the rockets upper stage safe by draining all remaining fuel and disabling energy sources, reducing the risk of explosions or other hazards in space after its mission ends.

Earlier this month, ISRO chief S. Somanath opened new facilities at Hindustan Aeronautics Limiteds (HALs) Aerospace Division in Bengaluru. These facilities will produce fuel tanks and precise components for the LVM3 rocket. C.B. Ananthakrishnan, chairman and managing director of HAL, stated that the partnership between ISRO and HAL would speed up Indias human spaceflight missions and the creation of next-generation launch vehicles. He also mentioned that it would not be long before space became a significant part of HALs operations.

HAL is expanding its manufacturing facilities to produce large parts for the three-stage, 640-ton LVM3 rocket. India uses this rocket to launch 4-ton communication satellites and commercial missions that include many small satellites in large constellations.

Thanks to HALs expansion, ISRO will soon be able to triple the number of launches of its largest rocket, the LVM3. Instead of only two LVM3 launches a year, ISRO will be able to carry out up to six. This is important because ISRO currently performs only about 10 launches per year with its current fleet of four different kinds of rockets, added Linganna.

The new factory will make important fuel and oxidizer tanks for the LVM3 launch vehicle, which can be up to 4 metres wide and 15 metres long, according to a statement from HAL. It is equipped with advanced CNC machines capable of precisely creating 4.5-metre rings and tank domes for the LVM3.

Interestingly, LVM3 has played a critical role in several endeavors as Gaganyaan. India's historic human spaceflight mission hinges on the LVM3's ability to propel the crew capsule into orbit. The LVM3 can carry heavier probes and rovers, opening doors to lunar and interplanetary missions that quench humanity's thirst for knowledge about the universe. At the same time, LVM3's prowess can generate significant revenue for the Indian space program by offering reliable and cost-effective launch services to international clients.

Currently, ISRO produces around two LVM3s annually but the new facilities at HAL have the potential to significantly increase production, reaching a staggering six rockets per year. This ramp-up translates to several advantages such as a higher production rate, allowing ISRO to meet tight deadlines for critical missions and capitalize on fleeting launch windows. Besides, India can become more self-sufficient in launching its own satellites, reducing dependence on foreign launch providers. India can also capture a significant share of the growing global demand for launch services, generating revenue for further space exploration and technological advancements, pointed out Srimathy Kesan, founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, which is into design, fabrication and launch of small satellites, spacecraft and ground systems.

ISRO is now opening LVM3 production to the private sector, mirroring NASA's strategy following the Space Shuttle program's retirement. This move can propel India's space programme to even greater heights. Collaborating with private companies can facilitate the transfer of valuable expertise in building complex launch vehicles, fostering innovation and strengthening India's space ecosystem.

Competition in the production sector can drive down costs, making LVM3 launches more attractive to clients, both domestic and international. Besides, private companies can bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches, accelerating the development of the LVM3 platform and its capabilities.

The global medium and heavy-lift launch vehicle market is projected to reach $9.75 billion by 2032. India, with its increased LVM3 production and potential private sector involvement, is well-positioned to grab a significant share of this lucrative market. By offering reliable, cost-effective launches, India can become a major player in the global space industry, leading to fruitful international collaborations on scientific endeavors that push the boundaries of human knowledge and understanding of the cosmos.



The road ahead is not without challenges, such as ensuring smooth technology transfer to private players and maintaining quality control standards. However, the future looks bright for India's space ambitions, and the LVM3 production boost, coupled with potential private sector participation, presents a golden opportunity for the nation to fulfill its space-faring dreams and emerge as a leading force in the global space race, explained Kesan.



The LVM3, India's most powerful launch vehicle, has a payload capacity of 4 metric tons to geostationary transfer orbit (GTO), which is significantly lower than that of SpaceX's Falcon 9. The Falcon 9 can carry payloads of up to 8.3 tonnes to GTO and 22 tonnes to low-earth orbit (LEO).



In terms of launch frequency, ISRO currently produces around two LVM3s annually. However, the new facilities at HAL have the potential to significantly increase production, reaching a staggering six rockets per year. In comparison, SpaceX's Falcon 9 has a higher production rate, with multiple launches per month. This is partly due to the company's reusable launch technology, which allows for faster turnaround times and increased efficiency.



The Falcon 9 has significantly higher payload capacity than the LVM3, making it more suitable for larger and heavier satellites. While both vehicles have the potential for increased production, the Falcon 9's reusable technology allows for a higher launch frequency. The cost of launching a payload on the Falcon 9 is generally higher than that of the LVM3, although the exact cost per launch is not publicly disclosed for the LVM3, added Kesan.


The Canadian House of Commons on Tuesday held a moment of silence to mark the one-year anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's assassination.

This comes as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke to CBC News, saying he hopes that talks with India can resume on "some very serious issues around national security and keeping Canadians safe and the rule of law" as Narendra Modi has been election for a third term.

"There's alignment on a number of big issues that we need to work on, as democracies (and) as a global community," Trudeau told the outlet. "But now that he (Modi) is through his election, I think there is an opportunity for us to engage, including on some very serious issues around national security and keeping Canadians safe and the rule of law that we will be engaging."

Nijjar who headed the Khalistan Tiger Force was killed by unidentified people outside a gurudwara in British Columbia's Surrey on June 18, 2023. He was designated a terrorist by the Indian government over separatist activities.

The Canadian police have arrested four Indians including Amandeep Singh, Karanpreet Singh, Kamalpreet Singh and Karan Brar in connection with the killing. However, the Indian government has denied any involvement in the killing, terming the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated".

The assassination of Nijjar has caused rift in the India-Canada bilateral relationship last year.

The one-year anniversary of Nijjar's killing comes after Modi met Trudeau on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy last week.
SEOUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), greeted visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Pyongyang International Airport, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Wednesday.

Kim shook hands with Putin and embraced him warmly, the report said.

The DPRK leader expressed his joy and gladness to meet Putin again in Pyongyang some 270 days after their meeting at the Vostochny Spaceport in September last year, the KCNA reported.

The Russian president extended his deep gratitude to the DPRK leader for coming to the airport to greet him.

The two leaders had a friendly chat after arriving at the lodging quarters Kumsusan State Guest House, according to the report.

Putin's visit is of great importance in "reliably promoting the strategic and future-oriented development of the DPRK-Russia relations," the report said.

Editor: WXL
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met Wednesday in Pyongyang as they seek to expand their economic and military cooperation and display a united front against Washington.



Putin was met upon his nighttime arrival by Kim, who shook his hands, hugged him twice and rode with him from the airport in a limousine in a huge motorcade that rolled through the capital's brightly illuminated streets, where buildings were decorated with giant Russian flags and portraits of Putin.



After spending the rest of the night at a state guest house, Putin attended an official welcoming ceremony at the city's main square before beginning his summit talks with Kim, according to Russian media.



North Korean state media described the meeting between the leaders as a historic event that demonstrates the invincibility and durability of the two nations' friendship and unity.



Putin, making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, was quoted in official media outlets before his arrival as saying the two countries want to cooperate closely to overcome U.S.-led sanctions and actively develop thier partnership. He also said he appreciated North Korea's firm support of his military actions in Ukraine. The Kremlin launched a full-scale invasion of the neighboring country in 2022.



Putin's visit comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Russia's war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that would enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile program.



North Korea is under heavy U.N. Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.



Putin is being accompanied by several top officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Denis Mantrurov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, according to his foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov. He said a number of documents will be signed during the visit, possibly including an agreement on a comprehensive strategic partnership.



U.S. and South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple U.N. Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.



Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Kim's continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking U.S.-led efforts to impose fresh U.N. sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.



In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of U.N. sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine. U.S. and South Korean officials have said they are discussing options for a new mechanism for monitoring the North.



South Korean analysts say that Kim will likely seek stronger economic benefits and more advanced military technologies from Russia, although his more sensitive discussions with Putin aren't likely to be made public.



While Kim's military nuclear program now includes developmental intercontinental ballistic missiles that can potentially reach the U.S. mainland, he may need outside technology help to meaningfully advance his program further. There are already possible signs that Russia is assisting North Korean with technologies related to space rockets and military reconnaissance satellites, which Kim has described as crucial for monitoring South Korea and enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles.



Aside of sending military supplies to Russia to help its warfighting Ukraine, the North may also seek to increase labor exports and other illicit activities to gain foreign currency in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Korea's main spy agency. There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and further promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.



In Washington, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Putin's visit to North Korea illustrates how Russia tries, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.



North Korea is providing significant munitions to Russia ... and other weapons for use in Ukraine. Iran has been providing weaponry, including drones, that have been used against civilians and civilian infrastructure, Blinken told reporters following a meeting with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday.



Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kim's weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the United States, South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle. The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.
Mumbai, Jun 18 (PTI) A Mumbai-bound IndiGo flight from Chennai received a bomb threat message on Tuesday, but it landed safely here, an airport source said.

The bomb threat message was received at the private airline's call centre in New Delhi, the source said without delving into specifics.

The flight landed safely at the Mumbai airport at 10.30 pm, he said.

"IndiGo flight 6E 5149, operating from Chennai to Mumbai, had received a bomb threat. Upon landing in Mumbai, the crew followed protocol and the aircraft was taken to an isolation bay," the airline said in a statement.

All passengers have safely disembarked the aircraft, IndiGo said.

"We are working with security agencies and post completion of all security checks, the aircraft will be positioned back in the terminal area," it added.

Earlier in the day, as many airports, including in Varanasi, Chennai, Patna and Jaipur, received bomb threat emails, prompting authorities to scramble contingency measures and carry out anti-sabotage checks that lasted hours, and each of them was found to be a hoax, official sources said.

Security was beefed up as agencies swept the airport terminals after the emails were received around 12.40 pm from the ID exhumedyou888@gmail.com.



The airports in Varanasi, Chennai, Patna, Nagpur, Jaipur, Vadodara, Coimbatore and Jabalpur were among those that received the hoax threats, as per the officials.
NAVI MUMBAI, India, June 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Global RegTech company, IRIS Business Services Limited (BSE: 540735) has received the prestigious 'Global Central Banking Award 2024' for Technology Services in London.



The award was given by 'Central Banking', a renowned industry publication based in London. The Reserve Bank of India was also awarded 'Risk Manager of The Year' award at the same function. This is the third award presented to an Indian national/ Indian entity in the last two years by the magazine. Previously, Mr. Shaktikanta Das, Governor, RBI had received the 'Governor of the Year' award in 2023.



Announcing the award, Christopher Jeffrey  Editor in Chief, Central Banking Publications commended IRIS and said, "This technology company has developed strong relationships from Bhutan to India and from Jordan through to Qatar. The CRILC solution built for RBI played an important role in NPA management as well." He added, "IRIS has helped central banks meet their supervisory goals with technical excellence, enabling them to secure timely, accurate and usable financial data."



K Balachandran, Co-Founder and CFO who accepted the award in a ceremony attended by the who's who of the banking world in London said, "IRIS has been working with central banks for over 15 years. The pace of change that this area is witnessing, is unprecedented. As we receive this award, we renew our commitment to work to keep the financial system safe for all, considering that the work of the company today impacts nearly 1 in 5 people's lives, globally."



About IRIS Business Services



IRIS Business Services Limited is a Global RegTech company listed on the BSE (Scrip code: 540735) and the NSE (Symbol: IRIS). The IRIS Suptech suite is leveraged by 30+ regulators worldwide including business registries, central banks and stock exchanges/ securities commissions to simplify and streamline their supervisory operations. IRIS is a leading provider of regulatory reporting software solutions to enterprises, serving over 6,000 clients across the world.



Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2441714/CofounderandCFOIRIS.jpg



Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2404308/4770772/IRISBusinessServicesLogo.jpg



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

PWR
New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a viability gap funding (VGF) scheme with a total outlay of Rs 7,453 crore for one GW offshore wind energy projects in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu.

The VGF scheme aims to set up first-ever offshore wind energy projects in India, said I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, while briefing media about the decisions at the Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The VGF scheme for offshore wind energy projects also includes an outlay of Rs 6,853 crore for installation and commissioning of wind energy projects (500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu), and grant of Rs 600 crore for upgradation of two ports to meet logistics requirements for offshore wind energy projects.

The successful commissioning of 1 GW offshore wind projects will produce renewable electricity of about 3.72 billion units annually, which will result in annual reduction of 2.98 million ton of CO2 equivalent emission for a period of 25 years, an official release said.

Further, the scheme will not only kick start the offshore wind energy development in India but also lead to the creation of required ecosystems in the country to supplement its ocean-based economic activities, it added.

This ecosystem will support the development of 37 GW of offshore wind energy initially at an investment of about Rs 4,50,000 crore, the release said.

The VGF scheme is a major step towards implementation of the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy notified in 2015, with an aim to exploit the vast offshore wind energy potential that exists within the exclusive economic zone of India.

The VGF support from the government will reduce the cost of power from offshore wind projects and make them viable for purchase by DISCOMs, the release said.

While the projects will be established by private developers selected through a transparent bidding process, the power excavation infrastructure, including the offshore substations, will be constructed by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL).

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, as the nodal ministry, will coordinate with various Ministries/Departments to ensure successful implementation of the scheme.

Construction of offshore wind energy projects and its operations also require specific port infrastructure, which can handle storage and movement of heavy and large dimension equipment.

Under the scheme, two ports in the country will be supported by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to meet the requirements of offshore wind development.

Offshore wind is a source of renewable energy which offers several advantages over onshore wind and solar projects, such as higher adequacy and reliability, lower storage requirement and higher employment potential.

Development of the offshore wind sector will lead to economy-wide benefits by attracting investments, development of indigenous manufacturing capabilities, creation of employment opportunities across the value chain and technology development for offshore wind in the country, the release said.

This will also contribute towards achieving India's energy transition targets.
Chennai, Jun 19 (PTI) Croma, the omnichannel brand of Infiniti Retail Ltd, part of the diversified conglomerate Tata Group, has inaugurated its 500th store at Kattupakkam here, through its 'Happy 500 to You' campaign, the company said on Wednesday.





The new store offers over 16,000 products across 550 brands.







Commemorating the inauguration of the new store, the company said it is offering 10 per cent discount on purchases from June 19 to June 23.



"Opening our 500th store is particularly special as it underscores our dedication of coming closer to the customer. We could not be more excited to open it in Chennai, which has such a great cultural heritage," Infiniti Retail Ltd (Croma) Deputy CEO Shibashish Roy said.



"With this, we have now reached all corners of the nation and will continue expanding our footprint, bringing gadgets to more communities across the country," he added.
Peshawar, Jun 19 (PTI) A senior Pakistani journalist has been killed by unidentified gunmen near his residence in the country's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, police said on Wednesday.

Khalil Jibran, associated with private news channel Khyber News, was targeted by the miscreants on a motorcycle when he was heading towards his residence with his friend in Landi Kotal town of Khyber district on Tuesday, a police official said.

The official said the journalists car developed a fault near his home when the gunmen surrounded him, dragged him out of his vehicle and opened fire at him.

Jibran, who was also former president of the Landi Kotal Press Club, died on the spot and his lawyer friend was injured in the attack, the official said.

The culprits fled from the scene.

The official said Jibran had also received threats from terrorists.

Meanwhile, the slain journalist was buried in his native village Sultan Khel after fellow journalists demonstrated a protest at the Khyber-Pak-Afghan highway where Jibran's body was also kept.

The protestors demanded the journalist's killer be arrested immediately.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has ordered authorities to immediately arrest the culprits behind the journalists killing.

The Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) strongly condemned the murder and asked the government to bring Jibran's killers to justice.

In a statement, the association criticised the higher authorities' failures to stop such incidents as journalists were continuously facing torture, abductions and threats across the country.

Last month, another journalist from a Sindhi newspaper, Nasrullah Gadani, was targeted by unidentified motorcycle-riding assailants near Korai Goth, leaving him seriously injured. He later succumbed to his wounds.
Lahore, Jun 19 (PTI) At least two children were killed and seven others suffered burn injuries on Wednesday when a house in Pakistan's Punjab province caught fire after a laptop battery exploded, officials said.

The incident took place in the Shareef Pura neighbourhood of Faisalabad. The house caught fire when the laptop battery exploded while it was charging, Geo News reported.

Nine members of the family, including five children and two women, residing in the house were shifted to the hospital following the incident, rescue officials said.

Two siblings, a brother and sister, later succumbed to the burns at the hospital, the report said.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed regret over the death of children, extending condolence and sympathy to the bereaved family.

Maryam, according to the provincial government's statement, has ordered the provision of the best treatment and medical facilities for those injured in the fire.

The Faisalabad deputy commissioner has also formed a committee to investigate the incident.
(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)
Seoul, Jun 19 (AP) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un promised full support for Russia's war in Ukraine as he began a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday.

Putin's visit to Pyongyang comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which North Korea provides Russia with badly needed munitions to fuel Moscow's war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile program.

Kim was quoted by Russian news agencies vowing his country's full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity.

It wasn't immediately clear what support from North Korea might look like.

He also hailed Russia's important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.

The situation in the world is exacerbating and changing rapidly, Kim said. In this situation we intend to strengthen strategic interaction with Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said he will sign an agreement with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to bolster their ties as the two met in Pyongyang on Wednesday in a bid to expand their economic and military cooperation and display a united front against Washington.

He also thanked North Korea for firmly supporting the Kremlin's "policies" in Ukraine, where it launched a full-scale invasion in 2022.

Speaking at the start of his talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The Russian leader said in remarks carried by Russian state Tass and RIA Novosti news agencies that the new fundamental document will form the basis of our ties for a long perspective.

Putin's visit comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Russia's war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile program.

North Korea is under heavy U.N. Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

North Korean state media described the meeting between the leaders as a historic event that demonstrates the invincibility and durability of the two nations' friendship and unity. Huge crowds lined up on the streets to greet Putin's motorcade before the talks, chanting Welcome Putin and waving flowers and North Korean and Russian flags.

Putin, making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, also hailed a close friendship between the two countries based on equality and respect of mutual interests, and noted their fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the U.S. and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

We highly appreciate your consistent and unchanging support of the Russian policies, including in the Ukrainian direction, Putin added.

Putin was met upon his arrival Tuesday evening by Kim, who shook his hand, hugged him twice and rode with him from the airport in a limousine in a huge motorcade that rolled through the capital's brightly illuminated streets, where buildings were decorated with giant Russian flags and portraits of Putin.

After spending the rest of the night at a state guest house, Putin attended a lavish welcoming ceremony at the city's main square, where Kim introduced key members of his leadership including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and the leader's powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong. Putin and Kim Jong Un then began summit talks accompanied by their top officials, according to Russian media.

Putin is being accompanied by several top officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Denis Mantrurov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, according to his foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov. He said a number of documents will be signed during the visit, possibly including an agreement on a comprehensive strategic partnership.

U.S. and South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple U.N. Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Kim's continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking U.S.-led efforts to impose fresh U.N. sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of U.N. sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine. U.S. and South Korean officials have said they are discussing options for a new mechanism for monitoring the North.

South Korean analysts say that Kim will likely seek stronger economic benefits and more advanced military technologies from Russia, although his more sensitive discussions with Putin aren't likely to be made public.

While Kim's military nuclear program now includes developmental intercontinental ballistic missiles that can potentially reach the U.S. mainland, he may need outside technology help to meaningfully advance his program further. There are already possible signs that Russia is assisting North Korean with technologies related to space rockets and military reconnaissance satellites, which Kim has described as crucial for monitoring South Korea and enhancing the threat of his nuclear-capable missiles.

Aside of sending military supplies to Russia to help its warfighting Ukraine, the North may also seek to increase labor exports and other illicit activities to gain foreign currency in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions, according to a recent report by the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Korea's main spy agency. There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and further promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.

In Washington, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Putin's visit to North Korea illustrates how Russia tries, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

North Korea is providing significant munitions to Russia ... and other weapons for use in Ukraine. Iran has been providing weaponry, including drones, that have been used against civilians and civilian infrastructure, Blinken told reporters following a meeting with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kim's weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the United States, South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle. The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers. (AP)



AMS
Paris, Jun 19 (AP) Police in the restive French Pacific territory of New Caledonia rounded up eight people on Wednesday, including an independence leader, who are suspected of having a role in the deadly violence that wracked the archipelago where Indigenous Kanak people have long sought to break free from France.

The early morning round-up was part of an ongoing police investigation launched May 17, just days after unrest first erupted, into a wave of armed clashes, looting, blazes and other violence that turned parts of the capital, Noumea, and its suburbs into no-go zones.

New Caledonia's prosecutor, Yves Dupas, said in a statement that eight people were detained from 6 a.m. in Noumea and its Mont-Dore suburbs.

He said those taken in custody include Christian Tein, a leader of a pro-independence group that French officials alleged played a leading role in weeks of violence that erupted in May over contested voting reforms for New Caledonia. Dupas did not identify the seven other people detained.

The revolt prompted France to declare a state of emergency on the archipelago and rush in reinforcements for police forces that were rapidly overwhelmed. The violence led to nine deaths, including two gendarmes, and widespread destruction of shops, businesses and homes.

The prosecutor said Wednesday's detentions were part of a police investigation into a broad array of suspected crimes, including complicity in homicide and attempted homicide, armed robbery, arson, and membership of a group created to prepare violent acts.

The possible charges allow investigators to hold detainees for questioning for up to 96 hours, he said. After that, an investigating magistrate would have to decide whether police have gathered sufficient evidence to warrant formal charges.

With France now plunged into frenzied campaigning for snap parliamentary elections, French President Emmanuel Macron has suspended the reforms that would have altered voting rights in New Caledonia.

With unrest now ebbing, the French Pacific territory this week shortened its overnight curfew by two hours, its start pushed back from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. It also reopened the international airport that was closed to commercial flights for more than a month. (AP) PY

PY
Screenshot released by Italian Coast Guard on June 17, 2024 shows the shipwreck scene in southern Italy. Two shipwrecks occurred Monday off the Italian coasts, killing at least 11 migrants, while another 66 remain missing, the Italian authorities said.

A search and rescue operation by Italy's coast guard is ongoing in the Mediterranean as of late on Monday, hours after two migrant boats encountered problems near the Italian coasts. (Italian Coast Guard/Handout via Xinhua)

ROME, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Two shipwrecks occurred Monday off the Italian coasts, killing at least 11 migrants, while another 66 remain missing, the Italian authorities said.

A search and rescue operation by Italy's coast guard is ongoing in the Mediterranean as of late on Monday, hours after two migrant boats encountered problems near the Italian coasts.

A merchant ship in the area conducted the initial rescue after launching an SOS call as it discovered a wooden sailboat in distress some 120 miles (193 km) off the coast of Calabria in southern Italy.

The merchant ship rescued 12 people and assisted them until an Italian oast guard vessel arrived. One woman died shortly after disembarkation due to severe medical conditions, according to the Coast Guard.

"Searches for possible survivors of the shipwreck of the sailing boat continue," the Coast Guard said in a statement.

The Coast Guard specified that two Italian patrol boats and an ATR42 aircraft were currently involved in the search, and another patrol ship with medical teams on board would soon join them in the area. As of Monday evening, no more survivors have been found.

The 66 people who are feared dead include 26 minors, according to local media citing sources among medical staff.

According to the survivors' statement, the sailing boat departed from Turkey last week, carrying migrants and refugee seekers from Iraq, Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan.

Italian prosecutors have launched an investigation into the shipwreck, the latest in a long string of deadly incidents involving economic migrants and refugees attempting to reach Europe via the Mediterranean.

In an earlier incident, a rescue ship with the German aid group Resqship found 10 migrants dead and managed to save 51 others on board a boat in distress off the waters of Malta, not far from Lampedusa, Italy's southernmost island.

The survivors were mainly from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt, and Syria, according to Rai News 24. The ship was ordered by the Italian Interior Ministry to dock in Lampedusa, where survivors would receive assistance.

Migrants traveling by boat through the central Mediterranean Sea face dangerous conditions and high mortality rates due to weather conditions and poor-quality vessels. Nearly one thousand people have died or disappeared crossing the Mediterranean so far this year, and 3,155 in 2023, according to the United Nations' International Organization for Migration.

Editor: WXL
Seoul, Jun 19 (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a new partnership deal that includes a vow of mutual aid if either country is attacked, as both face escalating standoffs with the west.

It was not clear what kind of assistance the deal, described as a comprehensive strategic partnership, would call for.

Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years comes amid growing concerns over an arms arrangement in which the country provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile program.

Putin added that Russia would not rule out developing military-technical cooperation with North Korea the deal, according Russian state news agencies.

Kim said that the agreement was of a peaceful and defensive nature, according to Ria Novosti. I have no doubt it will become a driving force accelerating the creation of a new multipolar world," Kim was quoted as saying.

Russia and North Korea also signed agreements on cooperation in the fields of healthcare, medical education, and science, Russian state media reported, citing the Kremlin's website. (AP)

PY

PY
Islamabad, Jun 19 (PTI) Pakistan has urged the United Nations for a concerted campaign to recover all weapons from dreaded terrorist groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Speaking at the UNs Fourth Review Conference of the Programme of Action (PoA) on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) on Tuesday, Ambassador Munir Akram expressed Pakistans grave concern over the acquisition and use of modern and sophisticated small arms by terrorist groups such as [the] TTP.

According to a statement issued by the Pakistani mission to the UN, Akram highlighted the need for a concerted campaign to recover all weapons from terrorist groups like the TTP and also called for an investigation into how these groups acquired such sophisticated weapons.

The TTP is a banned terrorist outfit which has been fighting to establish the rule of Sharia across Pakistan.

The Pakistani envoy asserted that it was the responsibility of the UN member states and that of the UN to take measures to prevent the illicit trade, transfer, and diversion of these arms, Dawn News reported.

Terrorists and criminals do not manufacture these arms. They acquire them from illicit arms markets or receive them from entities that want to destabilise a particular region or country, Akram said.

The envoy highlighted how the illicit proliferation, excessive accumulation and misuse of small arms and light weapons" was exacerbating conflicts, fuelling terrorism, threatening peace and security, and undermining sustainable development globally.

Akram said the advent of new technologies such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones was deepening challenges in combating the proliferation of increasingly lethal small arms.

Describing the UN PoA and the International Tracing Instrument (ITI) as a structured framework to address the challenges pertaining to the illicit trade and trafficking of small arms and light weapons, Akram reiterated Pakistans commitment to both tools.

We have strengthened our legislative frameworks, enhanced transfer controls and implemented robust measures to prevent the diversion of SALW to unauthorised users," the envoy asserted.

Pakistan has long held that the banned TTP uses safe havens in Afghanistan to launch deadly cross-border attacks.

In March, Pakistan called on the UN Security Council (UNSC) to urge the Taliban rulers in Afghanistan to terminate their relationship with the TTP.

Last month, Pakistans Special Representative on Afghanistan Asif Ali Durrani stated that TTP attacks in the country increased by 60 per cent in two years, showing a significant rise since the Afghan Taliban seized Kabul in August 2021.

Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities in the past year, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan after the banned militant TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.

According to an annual security report issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, Pakistan witnessed 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries from 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in 2023  marking a record six-year high.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan were the primary centres of violence, accounting for over 90 per cent of all fatalities and 84 per cent of attacks, including incidents of terrorism and security forces operations.

A report released last month said provincial counterterrorism departments (CTDs) lacked clarity on militant groups dynamics, connections and operational strategies, apart from facing issues related to coordination, funding and intelligence gathering.
Washington, Jun 19 (PTI) US President Joe Biden is going to take a decision that he thinks is in the best interest of the United States, the White House has said, after China warned of "resolute measures" if the Tibet policy bill is signed into law.

The US Congress passed this month a legislation, the Resolve Tibet Act, calling for a peaceful resolution of the dispute over the status and governance of Tibet. It also calls on Beijing to resume dialogue with the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

"The President is going to do what he thinks is best on behalf of the American people, that's what I can tell you," White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at her daily news conference on Tuesday when asked about China's warning.

The Resolve Tibet Act is a bipartisan bill to enhance US support for Tibet and promote dialogue between the People's Republic of China and the Dalai Lama toward a peaceful resolution of the long-standing dispute between Tibet and China.

The Act enhances US support for Tibet  empowering State Department officials to actively and directly counter disinformation about Tibet from the Chinese government, reject false claims that Tibet has been part of China since "ancient times", push for negotiations without preconditions between the Chinese government and the Dalai Lama or his representatives or the democratically elected leaders of the Tibetan community, and affirm the State Department's responsibility to coordinate with other governments in multilateral efforts toward the goal of a negotiated agreement on Tibet.

China is opposed to the Act and has asked Biden not to sign it.

"Anyone or any force who attempts to destabilise Xizang to contain or suppress China will not succeed," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing on Tuesday. "The US should not sign the bill. China will take resolute measures to defend its sovereignty, security and development interests," he said.

China officially refers to Tibet as Xizang.

China in April this year said it would talk only with the representatives of the Dalai Lama and not the officials of the Tibetan government in exile based in India.

At the same time, China ruled out dialogue on the Dalai Lamas long-pending demand for autonomy for his remote Himalayan homeland.

In its talks with China between 2002 and 2010, the Tibetan side pitched genuine autonomy for the Tibetan people in line with the middle-way policy as proposed by the Dalai Lama.

The Tibetan spiritual leader has said he does not seek political independence for Tibet but seeks autonomy for all Tibetan areas which include Gansu, Qinghai, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces besides the current official Tibet Autonomous Region, a truncated version of Tibet before it was annexed by China.

After a failed anti-Chinese uprising in 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama fled Tibet and came to India where he set up the government-in-exile.

Relations between the two sides strained further due to protests against China in Tibetan areas in 2008.
Paris, Jun 19 (AP) Two adolescent boys in a Paris suburb have been given preliminary charges of raping a 12-year-old girl and religion-motivated violence, French authorities said on Wednesday. French media reported that the girl is Jewish.

The attack elicited widespread shock and concern, notably after a surge in antisemitic acts in France since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

The girl reported a rape in the town of Courbevoie on Saturday, and three boys, aged 12 and 13, were detained, according to the regional prosecutor's office.

It said two of the boys were given multiple preliminary charges on Tuesday, including aggravated gang rape on a minor younger than 15, violence and public insult motivated by religion, death threats, attempted extortion and unlawfully recording or broadcasting sexual images.

The prosecutor's office did not specify the girl's religion or release her identity, according to policies for the protection of victims, as is standard practice for hate crimes in France. French media reports and the town mayor called it an antisemitic attack, and identified the girl as Jewish.

The two boys are being held in custody pending further investigation, the prosecutor's office said. The third boy was named as an assisted witness to the alleged rape, and placed in a special education program.

Political leaders across the spectrum denounced the attack. France is in the midst of a blitz campaign for snap parliamentary elections June 30 and July 7, and the frontrunner far-right National Rally party has sought to make security and immigration key campaign issues.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin described the attack as 'awful', and said police were limited in their ability to prevent such violence. 'It's a problem of the parents  of authority. It's a problem of society as a whole,'' he said on BFM television. (AP) PY

PY
Tokyo, Jun 19 (AP) Japan and New Zealand agreed Wednesday in principle on an intelligence sharing pact as their leaders shared concern about the increasingly challenging security environment in the region, including closer ties between Russia and North Korea.

In a joint statement, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon expressed concern about rising tension in the South China Sea, where China has become increasingly assertive in pressing its territorial claims.

Kishida and Luxon welcomed the agreement in principle of an information security agreement" to facilitate classified information sharing, according to the statement released by Japan's Foreign Ministry.

The two leaders also agreed to accelerate talks toward signing a pact that would allow the two countries' forces to share logistical support and supplies during bilateral training and other operations.

Under Japan's 2022 national security strategy the country has been accelerating military buildup and expanding defense partnerships amid threats from China, North Korea and Russia.

Kishida and Luxon condemned in the strongest possible terms the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including the North's shipment to Russia of ballistic missiles used against Ukraine, the joint statement said.

There is no more important time than right now for our two countries to be engaging together to understand and to respond to the serious regional issues in Japan's neighbourhood, Luxon told a joint news conference after the talks.

He said the two leaders discussed Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Pyongyang and how North Korea is fuelling Russia's illegal war in Ukraine.

Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Wednesday signed an agreement that pledged mutual aid if either country faces aggression, at a summit held at a time both face escalating standoffs from the West.

Putin's visit was his first in 24 years as the United States and its allies expressed growing concerns over a possible arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by North Korea's nuclear weapons and missile program.

Japan has signed similar intelligence agreements with eight other countries including the United States, Australia, Britain, India and South Korea, as well as with NATO. Japan is also negotiating with Canada over a similar deal and has agreed with Ukraine to start talks. (AP) GRS

GRS
New Delhi, Jun 18 (PTI) Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday on the force's combat readiness in strategic waters and its focus on boosting overall capabilities.

The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) called on the prime minister to apprise him about the Indian Navy's various operational and administrative activities.

In a post on 'X', the Navy said Admiral Tripathi briefed the prime minister on various operational, administrative and infrastructural activities being progressed by the force.

It said Tripathi assured PM Modi of the Navy's commitment to remain "combat ready -- anytime, anywhere, anyhow" and safeguard national maritime interests while staying focussed on "AatmaNirbharta" (self-reliance) in capability building.

"#CNS also informed the PM about various initiatives towards nation building, as also the focus on #training & #welfare measures for all personnel, as well as the impetus towards #Triservice Synergy by enhancing #Integration across various domains," the Navy said.

In an address to senior naval officers posted at the naval headquarters in Delhi, Admiral Tripathi said the Indian Navy must remain combat-ready at all times to safeguard national maritime interests.

In the last few months, the Indian Navy assisted several cargo vessels after they came under attack in the strategic waters around the Red Sea.

The Houthi militants targeted merchant ships in the Red Sea apparently to build pressure on Israel to stop its military offensive in Gaza.

Admiral Tripathi took charge as the Navy chief on April 30 following the retirement of Admiral R Hari Kumar.
New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) A no objection was conveyed to the Australian deputy high commissioner based on principle of reciprocity for meeting officials of West Bengal government at an "appropriate" level, official sources said on Wednesday.

The clarification came after Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghose accused the NDA government at the Centre of not allowing the Australian deputy high commissioner to meet top Bengal ministers in Kolkata.

The Australian deputy high commissioner was conveyed about the "principle of reciprocity" in meeting functionaries of the West Bengal government, said a source.

Explaining the principle of reciprocity, another source said the rank of a minister of a state government is much higher in protocol than that of the deputy chief of a foreign mission and this provision is followed in heeding to any request for meetings.

The source suggested that the deputy high commissioner is much junior to the ministers and that is why the meetings sought by the diplomat were not in sync with laid down norms.

Ghose targeted the Centre on the matter and said the manner in which the meetings were denied puts a question mark on the federal structure of the country.

"It is extremely shocking and autocratic to send out a recommendation through the Ministry of External Affairs," she said.

"This is an assault on the federal structure," Ghose alleged.
Jaipur, Jun 19 (PTI) Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra said on Wednesday that today there is a big challenge to preserve human values and urged all the universities to fully implement the new education policy (NEP).

He said only right education connects the student with the understanding of the environment along with the textbooks.

In a statement, he said due to indiscriminate water exploitation, water crisis situations are being created not only in Rajasthan but all over the country.

Mishra was addressing a programme organised after the 33rd convocation of Rajasthan University and the inauguration of the Constitution Park built there on Wednesday.

He urged all the universities to fully implement the new education policy and create such courses that can help India move forward rapidly on the path of development.

With the aim of making the new generation getting higher education understand the essence of the Constitution, an initiative has been taken to build Constitution parks in the universities on the initiative of the Raj Bhavan.

Discussing the pictures engraved on the original copy of the Constitution, he said the sublime values of the Indian culture can be explained through these.

The governor said the universities should prepare the youth according to the time and modern requirements so that they can become valuable citizens of the country. He also stressed the inclusion of skill development along with education as innovations in the curriculum.

In the convocation ceremony of the university, Mishra also remembered C Rajagopalachari and his education philosophy. He said convocation is the beginning of a new life for the student.

In the beginning, he made everyone read the Preamble and Fundamental Duties of the Constitution.

Deputy Chief Minister and Higher Education Minister Premchand Bairwa said education refines life. Giving information about the efforts being made by the state government for higher education, he said quality education is the top priority of the state government.

Rajasthan University Vice Chancellor Alpana Kateja presented the progress report of the university.

On this occasion, the governor conferred degrees and gold medals to the students.

He appreciated the performance of the girl students and said if they get opportunities, girls move forward towards rapid development. Only women's education leads to rapid development of the nation and society, he added.
New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) A 48-year-old man was allegedly stabbed to death by some unidentified attackers in the Seelampur area of northeast Delhi, police said on Wednesday.

Deceased Manoj Kumar was a spare parts supplier in the Kashmiri Gate market.

"On Tuesday, we got a call from the hospital at 11.23 pm regarding a man who was stabbed to death," a senior police officer said.

He said an investigation was launched which revealed that the incident occurred at

9.40 pm on the GT Road near a flyover towards the Welcome Metro Station.

"We have registered an FIR under sections 302 (murder) against unknown persons at the Seelampur police station. Kumar was a resident of Shahdara. He is survived by his wife, a daughter and a son," said the officer.

According to police, Kumar died due to a stab injury on the right side of his chest. A crime investigation team and a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team have visited the spot.

"We are scanning CCTVs in the area. Efforts are being made to identify the criminals. Further investigation is in progress," said the officer.
Chandigarh, Jun 19 (PTI) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday disbursed Rs 79.69 crore into the accounts of over one lakh workers under 18 schemes and launched two new schemes for them.

Saini launched the initiatives for the workers during 'Shramik Jagrukta Evam Samman Samaroh' held in Jind, said an official statement. Haryana faces assembly elections later this year.

During the event, Saini disbursed Rs 79.69 crore directly into the accounts of 1,02,629 workers under 18 schemes, it said.

Launching the new schemes, Saini said under the 'Kanyadan evam Vivah Sahayata Yojana', workers will receive Rs 1.01 lakh for their daughters' weddings, with 75 per cent of the amount being provided three days before the wedding.

"Other initiative launched by the chief minister includes Mukhyamantri Shramik Panjikaran Protsahan Yojana, providing an incentive of Rs 1,100 to the workers upon registration," it said.

Haryana Industries and Commerce and Labour Minister Mool Chand Sharma was also present at the event.

On the occasion, Saini also announced an initiative offering registered workers a pilgrimage at the government's expense.

Under this, the government will provide free to-and-fro journey in air-conditioned buses for registered workers visiting Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya, the statement said.

Meanwhile, the chief minister stated that he had directed the officers to prepare a list of workers who had not received any benefits due to any reason and to release benefits to all simultaneously.

According to the statement, financial assistance of Rs 12.18 crore was deposited into the accounts of 1,206 workers under the Kanyadan evam Vivah Sahayata Yojana, scholarships totalling Rs 1.25 crore were given to 379 meritorious children of registered workers under the scholarship scheme.

Benefits totalling Rs 9.95 crore were also disbursed directly into the accounts of 19,925 workers under the cycle scheme and Rs 15.90 crore to 19,880 workers for purchasing tools.

Criticising the opposition, Saini said the Congress leaders claim that if they come to power, they will close various portals started by the present BJP government.

"When the Congress leaders talk about closing these portals, it reminds people of corruption, because during the Congress government, the workers did not receive benefits, but the present state government has ensured that benefits reach every section through the portals," he said.

Earlier speaking on the occasion, minister Sharma emphasised the significant contribution of the workers in taking Haryana to new heights. He expressed gratitude to the chief minister for providing various benefits to the workers.
Bengaluru, Jun 19 (PTI) Karnataka Medical Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil on Wednesday paid a surprise visit to Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology (KMIO) and Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in the city and warned of disciplinary action if patients are denied proper treatment. The minister's surprise visit comes amid growing complaints against the hospitals over poor treatment to the patients. Patil pulled up the doctors and staff over their alleged poor functioning.







According to a statement from the minister's office, Patil started his surprise visit from Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology where he interacted with patients and took feedback on the facilities and the treatment being provided.







"He pulled up the officer in charge of the fast track scheme who fumbled while trying to answer questions. The minister angrily posed a volley of questions regarding diagnosis of cancer, early treatment, chemotherapy, treatment schedule, duration of treatment and the number of patients visiting the hospitals," the statement said.



Later, speaking to the reporters, Patil said that patients from various parts of the state are facing difficulties in visiting Bengaluru for the treatment, and therefore the government is planning to open Kidwai-like hospitals in Tumakuru, Shivamogga, Mandya and Karwar.





"We are also planning to open Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health in Kalaburagi. We will continue to take necessary steps to address the problems in the hospital in a gradual manner, he said.



Admitting that a few problems are plaguing the Kidwai hospital, Patil also said that developmental works are being implemented.







There is no waiting period anymore. I have personally interacted with many patients and they have expressed satisfaction over the kind of treatment that they are receiving. We will float a tender to acquire medical equipment and steps will be taken to address the shortage of staff," he said.



Patil also sought information regarding the staff available in the fast track service, number of surgeries conducted daily and whether there are adequate number of doctors and other staff and details on the action taken to fill vacant posts, the statement added.
A 99-year-old Jewish veteran of D-Day has expressed outrage and disappointment over the honoring of a Palestinian journalist who has justified Hamas atrocities against Israelis. Mervyn Kersh, from London, criticized French officials for awarding Motaz Azaiza, a Gaza-based journalist, the Prize of Liberty as part of the 80th anniversary events commemorating the Allied invasion of Nazi-occupied France.

Kersh, who fought in Normandy during World War II, told The Times of Israel that he was appalled by the decision to honor Azaiza, who has glorified Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists and justified the October 7 attacks against Israelis. I want to tell them how wrong they are and how disgusting it is to those who liberated France, Kersh said, referring to the regional government of Normandy.

Azaiza, who received a $27,000 check during a ceremony attended by the president of the Normandy region, has stated that Palestinians should not be expected to condemn the October 7 attacks without also condemning Israels actions against Palestinians since 1948.

Kersh expressed his disillusionment with the honoring, saying, We came to rescue France and the rest of Europe, which we did. We all thought that was worth doing. I have my doubts now.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has issued a warning about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to create false stories about World War II atrocities, including Holocaust denial, which could lead to an explosive spread of antisemitism.

According to UNESCOs report, hackers have used chatbots to spread Nazi ideology, while bots have also generated their own stories about the Holocaust, distorting historical facts. UNESCOs Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that if we allow the horrific facts of the Holocaust to be diluted, distorted or falsified through the irresponsible use of AI, we risk the explosive spread of antisemitism.

The report highlights the need for ethical safeguards around AI technology to prevent the spread of false information. UNESCO is calling on governments, tech companies, and educators to take urgent action to address this issue. The organization has published a policy paper jointly with the World Jewish Congress to mark the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, emphasizing the importance of protecting historical truth and preventing the distortion of facts.

Azoulay warned that the misuse of AI technology could lead to a gradual diminution of our understanding about the causes and consequences of these atrocities. UNESCO is urging governments and tech companies to introduce measures to prevent the spread of AI-generated false information and for schools to educate students about the risks of AI-generated content.

The warning comes as the world marks the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, highlighting the need for collective action to combat hate speech and misinformation in all its forms.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Lawyers Boris Epshteyn and Jenna Ellis and former U.S. Senate candidate James Lamon have pleaded not guilty to nine felony charges in a case about trying to overturn former President Donald Trumps Arizona election loss to Joe Biden.

The hearing Tuesday in a Phoenix courtroom marked the last of 18 arraignments in the fake elector case. Fifteen other people, including former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Epshteyn, a Trump adviser, is accused of assisting Giuliani in carrying out the scheme to submit fake electors for Trump in Arizona and obstruct the certification of election results by Congress on Jan. 6, 2021.

Prosecutors in Michigan, Nevada, Georgia and Wisconsin have also filed criminal charges related to the fake electors scheme.

Arizona authorities unveiled the felony charges in late April against 11 Republicans who submitted a document to Congress falsely declaring Trump had won Arizona. The defendants include five lawyers connected to the former president and two former Trump aides. Biden won Arizona by more than 10,000 votes.

Trump himself was not charged in the Arizona case but was referred to as an unindicted co-conspirator in the indictment.

Arizona authorities say Ellis made false claims of widespread election fraud in the state and six others, encouraged the Arizona Legislature to change the outcome of the election and encouraged then-Vice President Mike Pence to accept Arizonas fake elector votes.

Lamon, a businessman who lost a 2022 Republican primary for a U.S. Senate seat in Arizona, is accused of falsely stating he was a duly elected and qualified elector. Prosecutors have pointed out that Lamon didnt withdraw his vote even though no legal challenge had successfully changed the outcome in Arizona. Last year, Ellis was charged in Georgia after she appeared with Giuliani at a December 2020 hearing hosted by state Republican lawmakers at the Georgia Capitol during which false allegations of election fraud were made. She pleaded guilty in October to one felony count of aiding and abetting false statements and writings after reaching a deal with prosecutors.

The 11 people who claimed to be Arizonas Republican electors met in Phoenix on Dec. 14, 2020, to sign a certificate saying they were duly elected and qualified electors and asserting that Trump carried the state. A one-minute video of the signing ceremony was posted on social media by the Arizona Republican Party at the time. The document was later sent to Congress and the National Archives, where it was ignored.

(AP)
Senator Elizabeth Warren says she will not be attending Israeli PM Binyamin Netanyahus speech before Congress on July 24, citing humanitarian concerns and disagreement with Netanyahus policies.

When asked about her decision, Warren said, Prime Minister Netanyahu has created a humanitarian catastrophe. He has also made clear that he does not support US policy for a two-state solution that will let the people of Israel and the Palestinians develop their own nation, self-determination, live with dignity.

We need a ceasefire, we need to get those hostages back, we need humanitarian relief, and we need to be giving both parties a big shove toward getting to the negotiating table and working out a peaceful solution, she added, completely ignoring that it has been Hamas, not Israel, rejecting the ceasefire deals.

Her decision comes amid reports that many Democratic lawmakers are planning to protest or boycott Netanyahus address to Congress, with some even discussing counter-programming the speech.

Another prominent Democrat who has said they will skip Netanyahus address is Senator Bernie Sanders. Perhaps Warren and Sanders can spend their time skipping the speech by going on a scavenger hunt  Warren can search for her American Indian DNA and Sanders can search for his Jewish soul.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Over 50 shuls across Florida were forced to evacuate on Tuesday after receiving bomb threats via email, sparking a massive response from law enforcement and concerns about rising antisemitism.

The threats, which were deemed harmless after police sweeps and evacuations, targeted shuls in Miami, Broward County, Palm Beach County, and elsewhere.

This incident is the latest in a string of antisemitic hate crimes in Florida, including a cyber attack on a synagogue last September and recent vandalism at a Miami kosher bagel shop.

Paul Morris, 26, was arrested in Boca Raton on Tuesday for posting threats on social media, but its unclear if hes connected to the bomb threats or other hate crimes.

Governor Ron DeSantis has vowed to combat rising antisemitism, allocating tens of millions of dollars to address the issue. If anyone attempts to bring it here, theyll face significant resistance, he said.

The FBI is investigating the bomb threats and other incidents.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Hundreds of thousands of immigrants had reason to rejoice when President Joe Biden unveiled a highly expansive plan to extend legal status to spouses of U.S. citizens but, inevitably, some were left out.

Claudia Zuniga, 35, married in 2017, or 10 years after her husband came to the United States. He moved to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, after they wed, knowing that, by law, he had to live outside the country for years to gain legal status. Our lives took a 180-degree turn, she said.

Biden announced Tuesday that his administration will, in coming months, allow U.S. citizens spouses without legal status to apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship without having to first depart the country for up to 10 years. About 500,000 immigrants may benefit, according to senior administration officials.

To qualify, an immigrant must have lived in the United States for 10 years and be married to a U.S. citizen, both as of Monday. Zunigas husband is ineligible because he wasnt in the United States.

Imagine, it would be a dream come true, said Zuniga, who works part time in her fathers transportation business in Houston. My husband could be with us. We could focus on the well-being of our children.

Every immigration benefit  even those as sweeping as Bidens election-year offer  has a cutoff date and other eligibility requirements. In September, the Democratic president expanded temporary status for nearly 500,000 Venezuelans who were living in the United States on July 31, 2023. Those who had arrived a day later were out of luck.

The Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which has shielded from deportation hundreds of thousands of people who came to the United States as young children and is popularly known as DACA, required applicants be in the United States on June 15, 2012, and continuously for the previous five years.

About 1.1 million spouses who are in the country illegally are married to U.S. citizens, according to advocacy group FWD.us., meaning hundreds of thousands wont qualify because they were in the United States for less than 10 years.

Immigration advocates were generally thrilled with the scope of Tuesdays announcement, just as Bidens critics called it a horribly misguided giveaway.

Angelica Martinez, 36, wiped away tears as she sat next to her children, ages 14 and 6, and watched Bidens announcement at the Houston office of FIEL, an immigrant advocacy group. A U.S. citizen since 2013, she described a flood of emotions, including regret that her husband couldnt travel to Mexico when his mother died five years ago.

Sadness, joy all at the same time, said Martinez, whose husband arrived in Houston 18 years ago.

Brenda Valle of Los Angeles, whose husband has been a U.S. citizen since 2001 and, like her, was born in Mexico, renews her DACA permit every two years. We can start planning more long-term, for the future, instead of what we can do for the next two years, she said.

Magdalena Gutierrez of Chicago, who has been married to a U.S. citizen for 22 years and has three daughters who are U.S. citizens, said she had a little more hope after Bidens announcement. Gutierrez, 43, is eager to travel more across the United States without fearing an encounter with law enforcement that could lead to her being deported.

Allyson Batista, a retired Philadelphia teacher and U.S. citizen, who married her Brazilian husband 20 years ago, recalled being told by lawyer that he could leave the country for 10 years or remain in the shadows and wait for a change in the law.

Initially, when we got married, I was naive and thought, OK, but Im American. This isnt going to be a problem. Were going to fix this, Batista said. I learned very early on that we were facing a pretty dire circumstance and that there would be no way for us to move forward in an immigration process successfully.

The couple raised three children who are pursuing higher education. Batista is waiting for the details of how her husband can apply for a green card.

Im hopeful, Batista said. The next 60 days will really tell. But, obviously more than thrilled because every step forward is a step towards a final resolution for all kinds of immigrant families.

About 50,000 noncitizen children with parents who are married to a U.S. citizen could also potentially qualify, according to senior administration officials who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity. Biden also announced new regulations that will allow some DACA beneficiaries and other young immigrants to more easily qualify for long-established work visas.

(AP)
An investigation by the U.S. Education Department found that the University of Michigan and the City University of New York failed to protect the civil rights of their Jewish students, the Education Department announced on Monday.

In OCRs review of university documentation of 75 reports the university received alleging shared ancestry harassment and/or discrimination from the 2022-23 school year through February 2024, OCR found no evidence that the university complied with its Title VI requirements, the Department of Education stated of its investigation of University of Michigan.

The probe reached the same conclusions about CUNYs Hunter College. One complaint letter about CUNY stated that shortly after the beginning of each of the two class sessions, a group of students in attendance changed their Zoom backgrounds to the Palestinian flag and their visible screen names to Free Palestine: Decolonize and read aloud a statement defaming and demonizing Israel through false accusations of colonization, ethnic cleansing, genocide and more.

The letter said that the university took no action as it claimed that it was protected free speech.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said that the Department will continue to carry out investigations on complaints of discrimination. There are currently 149 open Title VI investigations against schools and educational districts that receive federal funding.

The Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights continues to hold schools accountable for compliance with civil rights standards, including by investigating allegations of discrimination or harassment based on shared Jewish ancestry and shared Palestinian or Muslim ancestry, Cardona said.

Rabbi Asher Lopatin, director of community relations at the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, told JNS that the urge to lump in the condemnation of anti-Muslim or anti-Palestinian bigotry, including in Mondays resolution disagreements, risks missing the acute threat that currently faces Jews.

Im very much against saying its all the same, Lopatin said. It gets into this All Lives Matter thing. This is a time to say Jewish lives matter.

There was a time when we had to say, Black Lives Matter, because there was a particular issue of discrimination against African Americans, and now is a time where people have to say Jewish Lives Matter. The emphasis has to be that its become a hostile environment for many Jews on campus.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Talia Khan, a Jewish doctoral student at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and president of the MIT Israel Alliance club, has been active on social media since October 7th in a battle against the open antisemitism she and tens of thousands of Jewish students have experienced on college campuses across the US.

Speaking with Yisrael Hayom on a recent visit to Tel Aviv, Khan said that its only in Israel that she can truly relax.

Finally, I can breathe. In the US, especially on campuses, we constantly feel like we dont know who is coming around the corner with a keffiyeh, going to scream at us saying ****, Jew!

People are spitting at you if youre wearing a Kippah. They are wearing Covid masks and keffiyehs, but they are very open about their Jew-hatred. Some are saying they are anti-Zionists, not antisemites, but a lot of them at this point are just antisemites. Its constant  everywhere around campus, wherever you go, you hear people saying Israel is committing genocide, You are a baby killer.'

This happens every day. For example, I was studying for my doctoral exams with two Arab girls. Immediately after Oct. 7, they started posting Palestinian flags, Israel hadnt done anything at the time, it was hours after the news started. We didnt even know what was going on. I talked to them about it, and told them all we know so far is that a bunch of Israelis were killed by terrorists, why are you posting Palestinian flags? The conversion got to a point where they said they believed this was Palestinian liberation, and they even said that the people at the Nova massacre deserved to die because they were partying on stolen land. How am I supposed to keep studying with people who believe that it was okay for these innocent people in Nova to die? I told them That could have been me. That could have been any MIT student, even a non-Jewish student visiting Israel for a summer program. People from about 40 different countries were in Nova. Now, both girls have blocked me, doxing me. Its everywhere you go, in every aspect of your life.

There are students at MIT who had to be moved to safe housing, paid for by MIT because MIT acknowledged they were being threatened and harassed to such an extent that their physical safety was in danger. We had a non-Jewish student e-mail us saying someone in my dorm is one of the leaders of the anti-Israel club. Its crazy. He said that every Zionist deserves to die, even women and children, anywhere in the world. This is a student on campus, who is still going to classes, I still see him every day, and the MIT administration does nothing. Every aspect of your life. You go in an Uber and theres Free Palestine. In the restaurants around campus, you see Free Palestine, you have places saying No Zionists allowed in this establishment. You have people boycotting  there was a big Ishay Ribo concert and there was a huge boycott, none of the people in the venue were working. We only feel safe when were in our own Jewish circles or Zionist circles, which also thankfully include non-Jews as well, we have great allies in the Christian community.

Khan said that the antisemitic rioters would take over US college campuses if she and other Jews didnt fight back every single day.

Non-Jews support Israel but they are much less active because they dont have to fight. We have to fight, every single day. We have no choice. We dont want to be doing this every day, but we know that we cant stop. We cant let these people take over our campuses.

If we were to do nothing, we know our administration wouldnt stop them and they would indoctrinate more people. And so, we have to be an opposing voice. We have to fight, we dont have any choice. So many people I know had to drop classes, postpone exams, masters defense, or doctoral defense, because we just have to work so hard constantly  write letters, file reports, get a bunch of hostage posters together, and put up a demonstration, we feel like our own little army. We have to defend our community and we feel we are huddled together I think, surrounded by people like this, she gestures to the size of their small community compared to the anti-Israel one. Back to your question How do you feel in Israel? I finally feel like I walk around and instead of seeing graffiti that says Free Palestine, you see graffiti that says Free the hostages, and Im just she sighs deeply, I have cried even, so many times, being here because Im so grateful. I dont have to worry about who Im going to run into in the street and what theyll do to me. I dont feel safe walking around the street in Cambridge, Massachusetts  I walk around with a knife and pepper spray everywhere I go. I know some people who got gun licenses to carry guns because theyre so scared. There is no aspect of our life that it isnt touching.

So, I am very, very happy to be here, I dont want to go home. A lot of people are saying, so stay, make Aliya. I would love to, but I cant. We cant leave. If we leave, who is going to protect the other Jewish students? The other thing is there are a lot of fighters, but there are also people who are afraid. I dont judge them at all. You know, I lost so many friends. I was president of MITs Chabad, and Im very active in the Jewish community, people knew I was Jewish but ever since Ive been loud about it I lost so many friends, so I know why people are afraid. Even in schools with a big Jewish population like Tulan for example  I think there are about 4000 Jews at Tulane  and Yasmeen, the girl in charge of the Israel club on campus said maybe 150 people are actively participating and actually come to events, whereas the rest are too scared. They dont want to lose their friend groups. And if we leave  the people who are the 150  and come to Israel, no one is going to be there to defend the other 3800.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Opposition Leader Yair Lapid urged lawmakers to pass the Charedi draft bill quickly, warning that people will die if the army is not given the tools it needs.

Addressing the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, Lapid emphasized that we are in an emergency and that the current situation, with tens of thousands of young people exempt from conscription, is impossible on both ethical and operational levels.

Lapids remarks came during a debate over the Charedi draft bill, just a week after it was passed by the Knesset plenum. He noted that 16 IDF soldiers have already been killed in the past week, and that Hamas and Hezbollah want to kill us all and do not differentiate between chiloni, daati, and Charedi citizens.

We all need to mobilize to defend ourselves, Lapid declared, calling for a pointed and substantive discussion leading to a bill that does not discriminate between blood and blood.

The army needs the soldiers now, Lapid concluded.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
This coming week will see a historic joint visit to the United States by six of the leading contemporary gedolei hador from Eretz Yisroel, who are making an arduous trip to America to raise desperately needed funds for yeshivos and kollelim in Eretz Hakodesh.

The visit by the gedolim  Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch, Rav Yaakov Hillel, Rav Don Segal, Rav Dov Landau, the Rachmastrivker Rebbe and Rav Avraham Salim  comes after the Israeli government instituted massive funding cuts to yeshivos and kollelim in April, leaving a gaping hole in the finances of Torah institutions across Eretz Yisroel.

More specifically, the government cut roughly $107 million (393,245,616 shekel) in stipends disbursed to yeshivos and kollelim over the next year, necessitating this trip to America, where the roshei yeshiva will attempt to raise those funds from machzikei torah.

The trip will commence on Motzei Shabbos, with the gedolim landing in New York on Sunday morning. They will be in the US for approximately three days, leading a whirlwind fundraising tour of Jewish communities in seven cities: Brooklyn, Manhattan, Monsey, the 5 Towns, Lakewood, Deal and Toronto.

The majority of events the gedolim will attend are expected to be closed-door, although there may be limited opportunities for the wider public to see and hear from them.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
The $320 million US-built pier established on the coast of Gaza to provide humanitarian aid to innocent Gazan civilians failed in its mission and will most likely end its operations weeks ahead of schedule, the New York Times reported on Tuesday.

The pier only operated 10 days since it began operating a month ago since two-thirds of the time was spent repairing the pier. Even on the days it was operational, almost none of the deliveries reached Gazan civilians due to aid trucks being violently hijacked by Hamas terrorists or local gangs.

The pier operated for a week before breaking apart in a storm. It was then transferred to Ashdod where it underwent repairs for a week and then sent back to the Gazan coast, where it promptly suffered damage again from rough seas.

Many Israeli social media users couldnt help but comment on the irony of the failed mission to provide aid to the enemy.

Interestingly, the United Nations Famine Review Committee published a report on Monday saying that there is no evidence of famine in Gaza.

In fact, Gaza is being flooded with aid but the UN, which spends most of its time attacking Israel, has been unable to distribute it effectively.

The IDFs Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories [COGAT] stated on Wednesday: Weve taken many steps to assist the UN aid agencies with the collection of aid from the Gazan side of Kerem Shalom, including a tactical pause on the Folat route. Despite that, over 1,000 aid trucks are waiting to be collected.

Weve taken many steps to assist the @UN aid agencies with the collection of aid from the Gazan side of Kerem Shalom, including a tactical pause on the Folat route. Despite that, over 1,000 aid trucks are waiting to be collected. pic.twitter.com/R8wgIGNWTZ  COGAT (@cogatonline) June 18, 2024



(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The White House canceled a strategic meeting in Washington scheduled for Thursday following Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahus video message on Wednesday slamming the Biden administration for withholding arms to Israel, two US officials told Axios.

However, a third US official said that the meeting was only postponed due to a scheduling issue and was not canceled.

The meeting was set to discuss Iran, the war in Gaza and other security issues and was to include Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi, and other senior Israeli and US officials.

The Israeli officials were already on the way to Washington when the meeting was canceled/postponed.

Netanyahus video statement was published during the visit of US envoy Amos Hochstein, who personally delivered a message about the Biden administrations ire to the prime minister.

Ironically, Hochstein is in the region to try to thwart the breakout of a full-scale between Israel and Hezbollah, a conflict that would be most imperiled by delays in arms shipments.

Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday that the Biden administration is delaying the sale of 50 F-15 jets to Israel despite two top Democrats finally removing their objections to the deal.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The Biden administration has yet to move forward with the sale of 50 F-15 fighter jets to Israel even after two top Democrats finally agreed to the sale last month, US officials told the Wall Street Journal.

There is no policy guidance to slow down transfers to Israel, a State Department official told The Wall Street Journal. However, he added that some in the administration are concerned the deal could lead to broader congressional opposition.

We are looking tactically at the timing. It is not a question of whether, the State Department official said. It is a question of when.

That is highly unusual. The formal notification after Congress has cleared the case usually takes, at most, a week, a former State Department official told the Journal.

The White House declined to comment.

The report came the same day as a report that the White House canceled a strategic meeting in Washington scheduled for Thursday following Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahus video message on Wednesday slamming the Biden administration for withholding arms to Israel.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The IDF Home Front Command has lifted some restrictions on residents of Gaza Strip border communities, following a new situational assessment. The decision comes after months of strict limitations on gatherings and educational activities in the region.

Since October 7, outdoor gatherings in all Gaza border communities had been capped at 100 people, and educational activities were prohibited. However, the IDF had previously lifted some of these restrictions in select communities.

Under the latest changes, several communities near the border will no longer have restrictions on educational activities, and gatherings can now be attended by up to 1,000 people. However, some communities will still have restrictions in place for educational activities, gatherings, workplaces, and essential economic activities.

The IDF has provided a list of the affected towns and emphasized that the changes are intended to ease restrictions on the home front while preserving human life and reinforcing agriculture, economy, and education.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
In January last year, I agreed to have a smart meter installed after a great deal of encouragement from my energy supplier.

Last month, however, I started experiencing problems with the monitor and I have now discovered it is faulty and needs replacing.

My provider says it only gives free replacements within the first 12 months, so I will have to pay for a new one  is this correct? Edward Green, Norwich.

Fault: A reader is being asked to pay for a new smart meter after his original unit developed a problem with its screen

Dean Dunham replies: Your energy provider is citing a rule imposed by the regulator, Ofgem, which provides that energy firms are only required to fix or replace your in-house monitor if it turns out to be faulty in the first 12 months after it was provided.

After this, it can charge you for supplying a new one.

However, this is just Ofgems rule and my view is it potentially flies in the face of the Consumer Rights Act, which is not lawful.

This Act applies to four types of contract scenarios, two of which clearly do not apply here, but the other two might.

The first applies where there is a sale of goods (here the smart meter and monitor) for money.

Every item of information you will find online, from Government information about smart meters to energy providers websites, will tell you that there is no upfront charge for smart meters and may therefore lead you to believe they are free.

For this reason most believe there is no sales contract formed, and so the Consumer Rights Act would not apply.

However, this does not mean they are free because, arguably, you do pay for them, even if not upfront.

Some sources online, including Energy Saving Trust, a British organisation which promotes energy efficiency, state: Smart meters are completely free . . . Your energy provider will recoup costs through your energy bills over time.

This would suggest providers levy a charge within your regular bill. If your provider does this, the Consumer Rights Act will apply.

The second scenario that may apply is where there is a contract for the transfer of goods.

This is defined under Section 8 of the Consumer Rights Act as being where ownership of the goods is transferred to the consumer and there is some form of consideration other than paying money.

Here there would be, as the consideration is the consumer agreeing to accept the smart meter.

So, unless the meters: i) remain the property of the energy provider at all times and/or; ii) absolutely no charge is levied on the consumer, my view is the Consumer Rights Act will apply.

In this case, consumers will be entitled to a free repair or replacement even after 12 months if the issue is a fault rather than damage caused by the consumer and it will also mean that the regulators rule is contrary to consumer laws.

Have you been charged to fix a faulty smart meter? Email moneymail@dailymail.co.uk

Can Dean Dunham help you? Do you have a legal question for Dean Dunham? Email d.dunham@dailymail.co.uk, with brief details of your question or problem. No legal responsibility can be accepted by the Daily Mail and This is Money for answers given. > Read all of our consumer rights expert Dean Dunham's previous columns

Why can't I get a coat refund?

I returned a coat and, after waiting five weeks for a refund, I made a chargeback claim.

My bank has now rejected this, saying there is no breach of contract as the retailer has agreed to refund me. What should I do now?.

Francis Taylor, Nottingham.

Dean Dunham replies: Your bank is correct in citing the remedy you are entitled to in these circumstances, under the Consumer Rights Act, is a refund.

However, just because a refund has been promised, it does not mean you have no further rights and, in fact, here there is a breach of contract, so your bank was wrong to deny your chargeback claim.

Under Section 45 of the Act, the trader must refund the money within 14 days. This obligation on the trader under the law becomes a term of the contract with the consumer.

Here, the trader has clearly failed to pay you within 14 days and this therefore amounts to a breach of contract.

The only exception would be if the trader disputed the refund, as the 14-day clock would not commence until your right to a refund had been proven.

Go back to your bank and explain this breach of contract. If it still refuses your chargeback, file a claim with the Financial Ombudsman Service.

If the facts are as you explain, this will be successful and your bank will have to pay out. You should also continue to chase the refund.
Charlie Martin is desperately trying to stop corrupt bank branch staff from stealing customers hard-earned savings.

He spends his days warning hundreds of British savers about the imminent danger their accounts are in.

Charlie is part of a banks fraud investigations team and has pinpointed accounts being targeted by rogue employees.

The money will be stolen from under savers noses unless they cash it out and post it to a safe location, via a scheme run by the Post Office and the bank.

Or at least thats what he and his highly trained colleagues would like you to believe.

Casting the net: Scammer call centres a use special devices that can make 10,000 calls to landlines at the same time

For, rather than being a valiant anti-fraud hero, Charlie is the ringleader of a prolific fraud factory in Kolkata targeting British households.

The call centre blitzes up to 30,000 UK landlines a day in a slick operation that scares people into handing over their life savings.

Millions of Britons have been targeted with this type of impersonation scam, where fraudsters pose as bank workers, police or other officials.

As much as 78.9 million was stolen through such scams last year, with 10,594 cases of victims losing money, according to banking trade body UK Finance.

Impersonation scams have risen 13 per cent over the past year, in particular those where fraudsters pretend to be a police officer or bank employee, according to Lloyds Bank. Victims lost more than 3,000 on average last year.

Most people who get scam phone calls cotton on before falling victim and just hang up. But Money Mail has been working with BBC TVs fraud-busting show Scam Interceptors and can reveal what happens when victims dont put the phone down.

Plus, we expose the clever tricks scammers use to try to part you from your cash.

Unbeknown to Charlie, hundreds of his calls were being secretly listened to  and recorded  by an ethical hacker for Scam Interceptors.

Charlies organised fraud group, which the BBC has named OTS, is one of the largest and most sophisticated operations ever exposed on the show, which is made with the Open University.

With 25-30 scammers on the go at the same time, working eight-hour shifts from 8am UK time each day, the number of attempted and successful scams is shockingly high, says BBC presenter Nick Stapleton, who listened in to many calls. They were employing people who were very good and had an incredibly effective script, he says.

Five signs you are talking to a scammer 1. A robocall starts the call If you answer a landline call and hear a robotic voice, its probably a scam, says Scam Interceptors presenter Nick Stapleton. These messages about fraudulent transactions are set up to make you panic. If this happens, hang up and call your bank on the number on the back of your bank card, or through the governments fraud line on 159. 2. The scammer reels you in Nick says: Terms like your banks fraud department or the VISA/Mastercard security department are a dead giveaway. They dont want you to hang up on hearing a particular banks name if you arent one of their customers. 3. They ask for bank details Another sign of a scammer is if they ask for bank details and to confirm your date of birth and name. All they know about you is your number, so will fish for more details. 4. They try to isolate you Scammers want to ensure the conversations you have with them stay private. They do not want you to seek a second opinion, or to involve family. Nick says: If you hear a phrase like this is a highly confidential investigation, so do not even tell your partner, the person is a scammer. 5. They ask you to move your cash Your bank will never ask you to move cash. Nick says: This is a clear sign that you are speaking to a scammer.

The Indian operation runs two scams  one in which it claims to be your banks fraud team and another where operatives purport to work for Amazon.

In the Kolkata call centre, five to ten professional fraudsters focus entirely on impersonating UK banks. They use a special device to make 10,000 calls to landlines at the same time, Nick says.

Those who answer hear a recorded message telling them suspicious activity has been detected on their bank account.

They are told they can speak to an anti-fraud specialist at their card payment provider and asked to press one to speak to Mastercard or two to speak to Visa.

Nick says: The system works as a whittle down  of the 10,000 landlines called, say 1,000 answer the phone, then 100 go for it and press a key. So you only need to employ about ten scammers to handle these over the course of a day.

Many calls can be put on hold while the scammers speak to those who pressed a key the fastest.

They first use Visa or Mastercard. they know everyone will be with one of the two, so thats their way in, says Nick.

Margaretha Smith, whose surname has been changed to protect her privacy, was called by Charlies scam call centre in November.

Targeted: Margaretha Smith (inset) was saved from handing over cash to fraudsters on the BBC show Scam Interceptors

Neither Margaretha nor Charlie were aware that the Scam Interceptors team were listening in.

Soon, they would have enough information about Margaretha to send people on the ground to her home to warn of the danger. But, with the attempted scam under way, they were still 40 minutes away.

Money Mail listened to the recording.

A female scammer claims to be from Visas security department and is looking into unusual transactions on Margarethas bank account.

The widow, 88, who lives alone in Merseyside, is told there was suspicious activity on her Lloyds bank account and given details of several transactions she never made.

Margaretha  a retired grandmother-of-four and former bakery shop worker  is asked for her balance before the transactions.

Nick says: This is what your bank would really do if they were going through certain checks. The scammer will proceed with the call so long as the victim has at least 1,000 in their bank account, which Margaretha did.

The scammer asks: Do you have your card? Could you please describe your card, maam, there is a sort code over there because in order to cancel the transaction we need your sort code, right?

Margaretha supplies the number, which tells the scammers the branch she is with. The location of her bank branch is crucial to how OTSs scam works, as the fraudsters can then try to convince her that staff there are interfering with her account.

Nick says: Based on what we know about this bank security scam, they will tee up the idea that Margaretha will need to go to her banks branch and withdraw money.

The scammers tell her that taking out the cash will keep it safe from the criminals operating at her branch. If she then posts it to an address they give her, Lloyds will put it into a safe, new account.

However, the address is controlled by the fraud factory so any money sent there would go straight into the hands of scammers.

M argaretha is told that the call will be transferred from Visa to Lloyds investigation department. Then Charlies voice comes onto the line.

Thank you for holding. Your call has been connected to the investigation department of Lloyds Bank and you are talking to Charlie Martin, how are you doing today, dear?

I believe I am talking to Mrs M. Smith, is that correct? The red tag which I can see right now, it clearly indicates that your account... has been used for criminal activities.

Margaretha is asked for her consent for an investigation.

As much as 78.9m was stolen through impersonation scams last year, with 10,594 reported cases where victims lost money, according to banking trade body UK Finance

When Margaretha questions Charlies legitimacy, he reassures her with facts about Lloyds he has gleaned online: I totally understand. You have to be very careful because nowadays we are facing so many problems. You can write down our address, ok, the Investigation Department of Lloyds Bank and we are based in 33 Old Broad Street, London.

This is enough to quell her concern, and Margaretha is put on hold while Charlie claims he is speaking to a National Crime Agency official. He then tells her 17 other cases have already been logged at her branch from the past two weeks and she must act fast. He says: Because we dont want to involve your local branch right now, if they come to know, it will be a problem.

Understand that? We are going to transfer the money by the help of Post Office in a form of cash. We will put cash in the new account. For that you have to go to the branch right now. You will ask for cash, 2,100.

The Scam Interceptors team on the ground arrive at Margarethas home moments before she leaves for the bank.

They knock on the door and frantically ask her to end the call with the fraudster.

They tell her: You are on the phone to a scammer, please hang up. I promise you, I can explain everything.

Margaretha agrees and instead alerts her bank to the scam. Nick says: This is psychological warfare  removing the fundamental trust that many people have in their bank. Its a plague on the elderly in the UK, as they are the most likely to have landlines.

After weeks of listening in to the Kolkata calls from the Scam Interceptors hub in Glasgow, the team hears Charlie give his phone number to a victim. Nick wastes no time and calls the criminal.

This time, Charlie answers as an Alan Jones. He says: Hello and thank you for getting connected to the investigation department. My name is Alan Jones, how may I help you?

The BBC man replies: Hello Alan Jones, or is it Charlie Martin? My name is Nick Stapleton, Im a journalist working for the BBC. I want to understand why it is you are scamming people in the UK and stealing their money. How do you live with yourself.

Charlie, clearly shaken, replies: Are you out of your mind or what? before claiming Nick must have the wrong number. He says: Youve got the wrong number. I am a waiter at a restaurant.

Shortly afterwards, the BBC shows remote access to the phone line is cut. It is unclear if the criminals have continued to operate.

However, Scam Interceptors has alerted the Indian authorities and handed over their information.

Scam Interceptors is on BBC1 at 10.45am today and is available to stream on the BBCs iPlayer.

j.beard@dailymail.co.uk
Watching your 18-year-old shoulder an enormous backpack and wave goodbye as they set off for several months on their pre-university gap year is an emotional moment.

Will they be safe on their travels around the world? Stories of muggings, moped accidents and mishaps abound.

My daughter Alice joined more than 220,000 young people in the UK aged between 18-24 who are expected to take a gap year in 2024, according to estimates from the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) with 56 per cent of gappies choosing to travel abroad.

Ahead of her six-month trip around Nepal, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam in January, we researched various travel insurance packages together before plumping for Tesco Banks Backpacker Insurance, which cost 250.

She was a backpacker; Tesco is a trusted British brand. So, if disaster struck and she could no longer backpack, shed be covered to fly home, wouldnt she?

Backpacker: Alice Walters on a cooking course in Thailand while on her gap year. The 18-year old had to be flown home after falling seriously ill in Cambodia

We read the small print. The policy, under the Tesco name but provided by AXA, seemed comprehensive, even stating that repatriation if medically advised would be covered up to 20 million.

According to the Association of British Insurers travel insurers dealt with 362,000 claims in 2022 totalling 352 million with the average claim the highest on record  973, up 33 per cent on the previous year.

The average emergency medical treatment claim hit a record 1,750, up 26 per cent on the previous year.

Fast forward three months and we receive a call from Alice in Cambodia to say she had fainted and been taken to hospital in a small town.

A doctor said she was dehydrated  it was 40C over there  and put her on a drip for a few hours before she was discharged with antibiotics for enlarged tonsils.

Two days later, she called again from an island with no medical provision. She was vomiting, with a crushing headache and fever.

Over the next 24 hours, we were getting increasingly worrying phone calls as her condition deteriorated.

The kind owner of the guesthouse where she was staying arranged for her to go by ferry and private car to hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodias capital.

Desperately anxious  was it meningitis?  I bought a 581 one-way ticket to Phnom Penh. I paid for it myself as it would not have been covered under Alices insurance. I did not buy a return as I did not know how long I would be there. I arrived to find Alice on a drip, looking shattered.

Ultrasound and blood tests revealed that she had a severely inflamed liver, spleen and gallbladder. Doctors diagnosed glandular fever, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus which in turn had caused hepatitis.

Hospital: The kindly owner of the island guesthouse where Alice was staying arranged for her to go by ferry and private car straight to hospital in Phnom Penh, Cambodias capital (pictured)

After three nights she was discharged, told to rest and return a week later for more tests.

Up until this point, AXA had been brilliant: it settled the full bill for her inpatient stay, tests, and scans directly with the hospital. Her medical bills ultimately totalled 2,819. AXA also paid her 79 taxi fare from the ferry terminal to the hospital.

Some days later, still very unwell, Alice developed a terrible rash all over. Her skin felt on fire. I took her to another hospital.

She was given more blood tests and ultrasounds and told that it would be extremely dangerous to resume backpacking any time soon. Exertion, such as lifting a backpack, could cause her spleen to rupture with potentially serious consequences.

Her best chance of recovery was to fly home, when safe to do so  her organs were still so inflamed that flying risked rupture and blood clots. Both the physician and hepatologist (liver specialist) confirmed the initial diagnosis of glandular fever and hepatitis.

We relayed the results of her blood tests, scans and diagnosis to AXA and asked it to arrange repatriation, as per the doctors recommendation.

But we were dumbfounded to receive the response that AXAs medical team didnt believe Alices condition warranted repatriation.

She should stay put, recover and continue.

Guy, my husband, who was back home, phoning AXA and chasing up emails  to which he only received automated responses  emailed again, begging it to rethink, highlighting the hepatitis and glandular fever diagnosis. It appeared unmoved.

Alice, who had been thoroughly stoic throughout, was deeply upset. How can they not believe the doctors here who have actually seen me? she asked.

As a journalist, I was able to phone AXAs press office to try to find out what on earth was going on. It was only then that things started moving. We were called by a manager and our case was escalated to a complaint.

Travels: Alice made a full recovery and after six weeks of rest at home she was able to fly out and continue her travels. Pictured: Halong Bay in Vietnam (file picture)

AXA grudgingly agreed to fly her home a day or so after she had the all-clear: Only because you have complained, and against the advice of our medical team.

AXA arranged the flights for me and Alice so we do not know how much they cost. It also paid 243 for our seven-day hotel stay while Alice recuperated, 81.45 expenses, and a taxi from Heathrow to our home in Wiltshire.

Once back, we sent our outstanding expenses that AXA had not already paid directly, including outpatient medical bills and hotel bills, totalling just over 800.

We heard nothing. Three weeks on, after I contacted its press office about this article, we received an email saying our complaint was being investigated, then another saying it would be settled in full, plus 100 compensation.

Thankfully, Alice has now made a full recovery. After six weeks of rest at home she was able to fly out and continue her travels.

So, what can you do if you are let down by your travel insurer? Sam Richardson, deputy editor of Which? Money, warns that not all travel policies are made equal.

Only around half of over 40 policies we looked at were good enough to earn our recommendation in our last review and complaints are sadly all too common.

Settled: Axa finally agreed to pay Alice's claim

Rejected claims are worryingly frequent, with over a third of people last year facing this issue. If the claim is rejected, push to get the reasoning in writing  having a paper trail can be useful.

If after escalating your complaint the claim still isnt resolved to your satisfaction, take it to the Financial Ombudsman Service  62 per cent of complaints it receives are upheld.

My own advice to anyone travelling is to nominate a friend or family member who can keep calling the insurers from the UK  which is difficult to do if you are ill, overseas and without an inter-national SIM card.

Insurers should make it easier for policy holders abroad by issuing a WhatsApp number for urgent calls and a user-friendly method of filling in claims forms and uploading medical reports and bills. AXAs nine-page PDF claim form was impossible to complete on a mobile phone.

An AXA spokesman said: We are sorry Alice fell ill while travelling and we sympathise with her situation. Following the initial assessment of Alices condition, our medical team believed she could continue her trip and did not need to return to the UK early.

However, upon further review it became clear that Alices condition meant she wouldnt be able to fully experience her trip, so we made appropriate arrangements for Alice and her mother to return to the UK.

We are sorry there was a delay in paying a further claim by Alice. We acknowledge that on this occasion the service we provided did not meet the high standards we aim to achieve at AXA Partners, and we will be providing compensation in recognition of this. The claim has now been settled in full.

Tesco Bank added: We were sorry to hear that Alice fell ill whilst travelling in Cambodia, and that she and her family were disappointed with the service they received well be discussing this case further with our partners to understand if any improvements can be made.
HSBC's Swiss bank is said to have failed to conduct proper checks on funds sent between Lebanon and Switzerland

HSBC breached money laundering rules in Switzerland, a watchdog has said.

The lenders Swiss private bank failed to conduct proper checks on 236million worth of funds sent between Lebanon and Switzerland during a period of 13 years, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (Finma) said.

The regulator said HSBC seriously violated money laundering rules over its relationship with two politically exposed customers.

HSBC failed to adequately check the origins, purpose or background of assets involved with two high-risk business relationships, Finma said.

The private bank now cannot enter into any business relationships with anyone in public office until it has reviewed all its high-risk and politically-exposed clients.

HSBC was contacted for comment.
Listing threat: FTSE 100 equipment rental company Ashtead has reported a fall in annual profits

Ashtead admitted it has looked at listing its shares in New York, in what would be another setback for the City.

As the FTSE 100 equipment-rental company reported a fall in annual profits, chief executive Brendan Horgan told analysts that the board regularly discusses its listing residency.

He insisted the group has no plans to move right now  but the comments failed to quell speculation that one could take place in due course.

Reports this month suggested that Ashtead was in the early stages of making a move across the Atlantic. The Square Mile has recently seen a flurry of London-listed firms call it quits.

Horgans comments came as Ashtead posted a 2 per cent slide in annual profits to 1.7billion and revenues rose by 12 per cent to a lower-than-expected 8.5billion. Ashtead said it expects revenue growth to slow in the coming year.
Activist investor Richard Bernstein has won backing from Nat Rothschild for an artificial intelligence (AI) venture putting corporate hypocrisy under the spotlight.

Bernstein, founder of Crystal Amber, has recently become chief executive of Insig AI, which uses machine learning to interrogate company disclosures. Prominent financier Rothschild has bought a 5pc stake in the company for nearly 1m.

The business helps investors and regulators scour through reams of publicly available disclosures  catching out those guilty of greenwashing or other instances of not being straight with the public.

Heavyweights: Richard Bernstein, right, founder of Crystal Amber, has recently become chief exec of Insig AI which financier Nat Rothschild, left, bought a 5% stake in for nearly 1m

There seems to be a whole lot of hypocrisy around about people saying we want to be good corporate investors and yet, on the other hand, they wont bother to do the work to see whats disclosed, said Bernstein.

Greenwashing is the term for when firms make pledges on the environment that are not matched by their actions.

He added that Insig has already identified one FTSE 100 company worth more than 10bn which is crying out for a greenwashing investigation and reckons, if this happens, it will wipe 700million to 800million off its value in a minute.

Theyre not disclosing what they should be disclosing and what theyve said is inconsistent, Bernstein said. Its making false claims.

Bernstein, who owns just less than 20 per cent of Insig AI, said: Its similar in so far as Crystal Amber is about activism and having change.

'Here Ive gone a step further  Ive decided to be the boss. Its really all about using machine learning for corporate reporting and standards around governance in particular.

The aim is to spot companies whose disclosures reveal them to be other than the great and the good that some in fact claim to be.

Bernstein added: The idea is to raise the level of disclosure for companies so youre not getting scandals in the future.
Atom Banks boss said he was not looking across the water at a New York listing as he insisted London would be the logical place for it to float.

Mark Mullen said the Durham-based lender was not yet in a position to go public  but welcomed signs that the market is coming back to life after a dearth of activity.

And he said it very much remains the case for me personally that when there is a float it should be in London.

Were not looking across the water and saying we need to investigate New York, thats not a conversation, he added.

His comments will boost the feeling that London is fighting back after a number of firms, including Cambridge-based chip firm Arm, chose to go to Wall Street instead.

London calling: Atom boss Mark Mullen (pictured) said the bank was not in a position to go public - but welcomed signs that the City is coming back to life

But a successful listing by computer maker Raspberry Pi and more initial public offerings (IPOs) in the pipeline suggests the City is bouncing back.

Atom, meanwhile, reported an operating profit of 27million for the year to the end of March, up from 4million the year before, helped by strong lending growth.

The bank, valued at 362million in its most recent funding round, was forced to abandon plans for an IPO in 2022 amid a difficult market.

Mullen said the reignition of activity in the market was welcome but would not alter the timing of a listing.

The worst thing you can do is to get to public markets and then underperform, he told the Mail.

Youve got to really have a company that has been mature enough to make sure that that doesnt happen.

The right time for us will be a combination of us having built a sufficient track record and confidence with our existing investors and the City to say now is a good time. And were not there yet.

Mullen added that Atom was a very proud UK company.

He said: We employ UK people and we serve UK customers. The logical, natural place for us to list this business if we do will be in London.

He admitted that the banks shareholders  who include Spanish bank BBVA and private equity firm Toscafund would also have a view.

Mullen said it was not really an active conversation at the moment but there was a general sense around the boardroom sharing his view on London as the best place to list.

Mullen, who runs a bank that employs 500 staff, also spoke about its policy of a four-day week, first implemented in 2021.

He said that it had been considerably less challenging than navigating the rise of working from home.

The latter could result in managers being afraid to ask their employees to come back to the office and a rebelliousness among staff about coming in, the chief executive told the Financial Times.
The founders of Hargreaves Lansdown (HL) last night threw their weight behind an improved 5.4billion takeover bid for the investment platform.

Peter Hargreaves  who has a 20 per cent stake in the firm  told the Mail he would be very happy to support the offer from a private equity consortium backed by Middle Eastern cash.

Stephen Lansdown, who has a 5.7 per cent holding, said he was pleased with developments and described the bid as something to consider.

The comments came after the board, led by chairman Alison Platt, said it would accept the 1140p-a-share offer from CVC Capital Partners, Nordic Capital and Platinum Ivy, which is owned by the Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund.

HL shares soared 5.3 per cent, or 56.5p, to 1130p as it looked set to become the latest London-listed company to be bought.

Founders: Peter Hargreaves' (left) 19.8% stake in Hargreaves Lansdown is worth 1.1bn while co-founder Stephen Lansdowns (right) 5.7% stake is valued at 309m

Britains largest stockbroker previously rejected three approaches  including one worth 4.7billion  from the consortium.

But it yesterday backed the improved offer, putting Platt on course to oversee the sale of another London-listed company having been chairman of Dechra Pharmaceuticals when it was sold to Swedish buyout firm EQT for 4.5billion last year.

Hargreaves, 77, and Lansdown, 71, set up the company in 1981 and floated it on the stock market in 2007.

The FTSE 100 company is the countrys biggest investment platform with nearly two million customers.

But HL was caught up in the scandal surrounding the collapse of Neil Woodfords investment empire having been a strong advocate of the fund manager.

HL shares tumbled from a peak of 24 in 2019 to 7 earlier this year.

Speaking to the Mail, Hargreaves blasted previous management, saying Platt and new boss Dan Olley have had to mop up their mess.

The businessman, who is still HLs biggest shareholder, said: I think [the takeover] is going to work very, very well.

I think it is going to be a good solution. If the chairman recommends it, I would be very, very happy to back her decision.

The deal would value Hargreaves 19.8pc stake at 1.1billion and Lansdowns 5.7 per cent holding at 309million. Lansdown, the fourth biggest shareholder, said he was ready to consider the deal.

Its something to consider now and the board is going to support it so were going through the process, he told Bloomberg. Im pleased we have got some finality and well do our homework now.

Shareholders will be able to transfer their stake to the new unlisted company or accept the cash. An HL spokesman said yesterday that the board will engage with the consortium as it seeks to get a deal over the line.

The spokesman said the proposed offer is at a value that the board would be willing to recommend unanimously to Hargreaves Lansdown shareholders should a firm bid be tabled.

The consortium has until 5pm on July 19 to make a firm offer.

HL is just the latest London-listed firm to succumb to a takeover as bidders scour the stock market for bargains  fuelling fears the shares are undervalued.

Shareholders in cybersecurity group Darktrace yesterday voted in favour of a 5.2billion takeover by US private equity group Thoma Bravo.
Nvidia has leapfrogged Microsoft and Apple to become the worlds most valuable company as it cashes in on the artificial intelligence boom.

Shares in the US chip-maker rose more than 3 per cent in early trading yesterday  taking its value to $3.33 trillion (2.6 trillion).

That surpassed both Apple and Microsoft, which were worth $3.32 trillion and $3.28 trillion respectively.

The entire FTSE 100 of the London stock markets leading firms is valued at 2.5 trillion.

Nvidia  one of the so-called Magnificent Seven technology stocks in the US  has almost tripled in value since the start of this year and is up nearly ten-fold since the beginning of 2023.

AI champion: Shares in US chip-maker Nvidia rose more than 3% in early trading yesterday  taking its value to $3.33 trillion (2.6 trillion)

The stock has enjoyed a major lift in the past month after it revealed revenues hit 20billion in the three months to the end of April.

That was up 262 per cent from the year before and smashed Wall Street estimates.

Chief executive Jensen Huang said demand was so strong as he pushed back against fears that this momentum would be fading any time soon.

Amazon, Google, Facebook-owner Meta and Microsoft have all said they will need to spend more on the chips and data centres required to train and operate their AI systems in the coming months.

Founded in 1993, the story of the worlds most valuable chip-maker started at a Silicon Valley diner, with Huang and two other engineers, Chris Malachowsky and Curtis Priem.

Uncertain exactly what their business would look like, their strategy was to place early bets on markets that barely existed at the time, starting out with PC gaming and graphics processing.

This proved a major success, with their graphics processing unit now essential in the world of gaming in popular titles such as Call Of Duty.

But its most recent bet in the world of AI has proved its most lucrative, making it the first semiconductor company to rack up a $1 trillion market valuation in May last year.

Dan Ives, tech analyst at Wedbush Securities, said: The Godfather of AI Jensen Huang and Nvidia are leading this revolution and its a race to $4 trillion market cap with Nvidia, Microsoft and Apple battling for the top spot.
Vodafone Group has raised 1.7billion (1.4billion) to repay lenders after selling a large stake in India's Indus Towers.

The telecoms giant told investors on Wednesday it had sold 484.7million shares in Indus Towers, representing 18 per cent of Indus' share capital, through an accelerated bookbuild.

Vodafone, which owns a 21.5 per cent stake in mobile-tower operator Indus, had initially planned to sell a 10 per cent stake, but strong investor demand promoted it to nearly double the sale size, according to Reuters.

The FTSE 100-listed telecoms giant said the transaction raised around 1.4billion in gross proceeds.

Sold: Vodafone Group has announced the sale of 484.7million shares in Indus Towers,

It said the funds would be used to significantly repay Vodafone's existing lenders representing 1.8billion in outstanding bank borrowings secured against its Indian assets.

Post-sale, Vodafone retains 82.5million shares in Indus, which equates to a 3.1 per cent shareholding.

Airtel, India's second biggest telecom operator, said it bought a 1 per cent stake in Indus, raising its stake to around 49 per cent. It did not disclose the price.

Vodafone Group now has a 3.1 per cent stake in Indus. Vodafone Idea also has a stake in Indus. Private equity giant KKR and Canadian fund CPPIB sold their entire stakes in February.

Vodafone Group sold its stake via so-called block deals, where investors sell shares in the market. They have risen in popularity in India with the stock market at record-high levels.

Last month, Vodafone completed the sale of its Spanish operations for 4.3billion  helping to clear the way for its proposed merger with rival Three.

The division was sold to London-based telecoms investor Zegona.

Vodafone chief executive Margherita Della Valle is spearheading a turnaround plan and trying to simplify its operations to boost its performance.

Last year the telecoms giant also ditched its Hungarian and Ghanaian divisions and sold its stake in phone masts business Vantage Towers for 7.4billion.

In April, the Competition and Markets Authority said it would carry out a more in-depth investigation of the proposed tie-up between Vodafone and Three after warning that the merger could result in increased prices for customers and lower investment in UK mobile networks.

Vodafone shares rose 1.13 per cent or 0.80p to 71.44p on Wednesday, having slipped over 3 per cent in the last year.
The City watchdog's review into the debanking of so-called politically-exposed persons (PEPs) has been delayed in the build-up to the general election.

The Financial Conduct Authority was due to publish the review's findings at the end of June, but this has been pushed back to July.

In a statement, the FCA, said: 'We do not think it is appropriate to publish the review during the pre-election period.

'We will now publish it in July once Parliament has returned.'

Scandal: The issue of debanking became a hot topic amid the Nigel Farage and Coutts debacle

The review of rules on PEPs by the FCA is part of a wider look at debanking, a hot topic since NatWest private bank Coutts closed the accounts of Nigel Farage, who now leads the Reform UK party.

Farage accused the bank of discriminating against him because of his political views.

NatWest chief executive Alison Rose quit the group after acknowledging an 'error of judgment' in discussing the case with a journalist.

The FCA has said it cannot change the law that requires extra checks on PEPs. But it is examining whether risk assessments of British PEPs, their families and known close associates, are proportionate, appropriate and do not create unnecessary barriers for public servants and their families.

The regulator has said that individuals may find themselves excluded from products or services 'through no fault of their own' if banks apply rules inappropriately.

On announcing the review in September last year, Sarah Pritchard, executive director of markets at the FCA, said: 'These rules follow international standards and are designed to keep the financial system clean, free from corruption and guard against financial crime.

'Its important that they are implemented proportionately and dont create unnecessary barriers for public servants and their families.

'We have already persuaded some firms to improve their approach and we will use this review to identify if we need to provide further guidance to firms.'
Families say they feel stuck in a 'parent trap' when it comes to where they live with many needing to be close to grandparents in order to get help with childcare, thanks to rising nursery costs.

Half of parents with children under the age of 13, live less than five miles from their nearest grandparent, according to a new study by Zoopla, with seven in 10 being a 30 minute journey away.

Full-time places in nursery now cost as much as 140 per day  the equivalent of 33,700 a year for one child or 2,800 a month.

Paying for childcare in large parts of the UK, could take up more than 50 per cent of a yearly salary, a study by AJ Bell recently found.

Monika Seredynska, 37, who lives in Chislehurst, South-East London, relies on her daughters grandparents for childcare

With nursery costs now higher for some than the average monthly mortgage, according to Zoopla, it appears many adults are relying on their child's grandparents to cut costs.

Zoopla says the average family relies on nine hours of grandparent childcare support a week, equating to 468 hours per year.

With parents estimating they spend 9.90 per hour on childcare - including nursery, babysitting, and summer camps, this is worth 4,633.20 of free childcare annually.

Families feel trapped

Zoopla revealed the flip side is that over half of families who receive childcare support from grandparents say they now feel 'trapped' when it comes to where they live.

More than one third of parents who have grandparent support say they could not afford to be without it as professional childcare would be too expensive.

Many are even having to put their own home owning aspirations on hold to get free childcare support.

More than two in five parents feeling trapped would like to move to a larger home, but prices are not affordable in the area they need to remain to get grandparent support, and a quarter say that they would like to move to a different area but can't as they need to remain near their parents.

Half of UK parents with children under the age of 13 live less than five miles from their nearest grandparent, and 68 per cent live within a 30 minute journey

Some are even being prevented entirely from getting on the housing ladder, with almost a third of those who get grandparent support saying that they would like to buy somewhere but are having to rent in order to stay near to their parents or parents-in-law.

Whilst some put their moving aspirations on hold, others make a conscious decision to move closer to grandparents after having children.

Nearly two in five parents said that, since having children, they had moved closer to grandparents, whilst 11 per cent are currently planning to move.

Daniel Copley, consumer expert at Zoopla, said: 'As a parent, I know first-hand how expensive childcare can be, and how valuable family support is.

'As such, many Britons feel that they are trapped when it comes to where they live, with it being vital that grandparents are nearby to help out.

'This is leaving many in the tricky spot of not being able to afford to buy a place close to their parents, forcing them to rent when they might otherwise be able to get on the housing ladder. Or simply living in an area they don't really want to live in.'
CCTV: The fifth China-EU High-Level Environment and Climate Dialogue was held in Brussels yesterday. Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang led a delegation to the dialogue. We noted that this is the first high-level dialogue between China and the EU after the European Commissions pre-disclosure of proposed duties last week based on its anti-subsidy investigation on Chinas electric vehicles. Can you share more information about the dialogue? Is the dialogue helpful to resolving the trade frictions between China and the EU on electric vehicles?

Lin Jian: On June 18, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council Ding Xuexiang met with Executive Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic in Brussels, Belgium, and they co-chaired the fifth China-EU High-Level Environment and Climate Dialogue.

Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang noted that in recent years, President Xi Jinping and EU leaders have met several times, reaching multiple common understandings on enhancing China-EU cooperation on green transition. We need to jointly deliver on these important common understandings, work for more fruitful outcomes in our cooperation on green transition, and consolidate the momentum of steady improvement in China-EU ties. China and the EU have extensive common interests and huge space for cooperation in green transition. It is important to effectively leverage the role of the high-level dialogue mechanism, seek common ground while shelving differences, work in the same direction, keep the positive momentum of environmental and climate cooperation going, and deepen the green partnership between China and the EU.

Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized that electric vehicles are a landmark product of the green and low-carbon energy transition. The EUs plan to impose additional duties on imports of Chinese electric vehicles is typical protectionism, which is not conducive to the EUs green transition and would undermine the global cooperation on climate change. He expressed hope that the EU will enhance the consistency of its policies on environmental, climate, trade and economic cooperation with China, avoid economic and trade frictions that could delay the green transition process, and refrain from establishing green barriers that would interfere with normal trade and economic cooperation between China and the EU. The two sides need to properly address trade frictions through dialogue and consultation. China is firm in its resolve to safeguard its legitimate and lawful rights and interests.

Sefcovic said the EU appreciated Chinas strong measures and notable results in promoting green and low-carbon development, and is willing to deepen cooperation with China in areas such as tackling climate change and protecting the ecological environment, and to work together to ensure the success of UNFCCC COP29. The EU side attaches great importance to the electric vehicle industry and is willing to properly handle differences with China through dialogue.

Yonhap News Agency: The ROK-China diplomatic and security dialogue was held in Seoul yesterday. According to the readout from the ROK Foreign Ministry, China noted at the dialogue that its policy on the Peninsula issue remains unchanged and China is ready to continue to play a constructive role in solving the Peninsula issue. The Chinese side also met with ROK Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, and said that China hopes the engagement between the DPRK and Russia will contribute to regional peace and stability. Has China stated its position that the engagement between the DPRK and Russia will contribute to regional peace and stability? What does China believe are the outcomes of the dialogue?

Lin Jian: On June 18, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong and Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of the Central Military Commission Zhang Baoqun co-chaired the first China-ROK 2+2 vice-ministerial level diplomatic and security dialogue with Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Hong Kyun and Director General of International Policy Bureau of the Ministry of National Defense Lee Seung-buhm of the ROK in Seoul. The two sides communicated their diplomatic and security policies, and had candid and in-depth exchanges of views on bilateral relations and international and regional issues of mutual interest. On the same day, Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong and relevant officials also met with ROK Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul.

Both sides stressed that they value and would like to grow the good neighborly relations and mutually-beneficial cooperation between the two countries. They agreed to actively carry out dialogue and exchanges at all levels and in various areas, step up communication, enhance political mutual trust and advance practical cooperation through dialogue mechanisms including the high-level strategic dialogue between the foreign ministries, the 2+2 diplomatic and security dialogue and the track 1.5 dialogue, and promote the sound and steady development of the China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership. The two sides agreed to enhance exchanges at the sub-national level and between the youth to steadily improve the friendly relations between the two peoples. China stated its solemn position on issues bearing on Chinas core interests and major concerns, such as the Taiwan question, and asked the ROK to handle these issues properly. The ROK reiterated that it remains unchanged in its position of respecting the one-China principle.

The Chinese side pointed out that China champions the common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security vision, practices true multilateralism, advocates that countries legitimate security concerns should be respected, advances global security cooperation through dialogue and consultation, and opposes hegemonism, unilateralism and power politics. China and the ROK, having both benefited from economic globalization, need to jointly safeguard the stable and unimpeded global industrial and supply chains, reject turning economic issues into political or security issues, and oppose all forms of trade protectionism and moves to build walls and set up obstacles.

The two sides communicated their positions and views on the Korean Peninsula issue. China stressed that safeguarding peace and stability on the Peninsula is consistent with the common interests of all parties, including China and the ROK. How the Korean Peninsula issue developed into the current situation and where the crux lies is clear. The pressing task is to cool down the situation, avoid escalation of confrontation and rivalry, and keep to the major direction of political settlement. China has always determined its position on the merits of the matter itself and will continue to play a constructive role in its own way in the Peninsula affairs.

The ROK mentioned the engagement and cooperation between the DPRK and Russia. The Chinese side noted that the DPRK and Russia, as friendly and close neighbors, have the legitimate need for exchanges, cooperation and development of relations. Relevant high-level engagement is the bilateral arrangement between two sovereign countries. Holding the first vice-ministerial level diplomatic and security dialogue between China and the ROK was agreed quite early on by the two sides in light of the need of growing bilateral relations and has no particular link to the engagement between other countries.

Bloomberg: A senior US official is set to visit Japan and the Netherlands to ask them to add fresh restrictions on Chinas semiconductor sector. This would include on Chinas ability to make the high-end memory chips that are needed for AI. Would the Foreign Ministry like to comment on that?

Lin Jian: We noted the report. The US has been inciting bloc confrontation and even extending it to trade and technology, and coercing other countries to go after Chinas semiconductor industry. China firmly opposes it.

The US behavior is aimed at perpetuating its supremacy and denying China legitimate right to grow and thrive. In order to take exclusive control of the top end of the value chain, the US would go so far as to destabilize global industrial and supply chains. This will not only handicap the global semiconductor industry, but also eventually backfire and do no one good. We hope relevant countries will do the right thing, firmly resist coercion, and jointly uphold an open and fair international trade order to protect their own long-term interests.

Hubei Media Group: We noted that China-Europe freight train services recorded the highest monthly transport volume in May. Whats your comment?

Lin Jian: The China-Europe Railway Express has performed remarkably well this year. In May in particular, the China-Europe freight train services made 1,724 trips and carried 186,000 TEUs of goods, up by 14 percent and 13 percent respectively year-on-year and hitting a new monthly high. By the end of last month, the number of trips run by China-Europe freight trains exceeded 90,000 and carried more than USD 380 billion worth of cargo in total. Last week, China-Europe freight train services launched fully timetabled journeys that depart from Chongqing and Yiwu, which reduces the journey time to about 13 days from China to Germany.

These freight trains carry not just cargo but also hope. They connect China and Europe and show the world not only the speed and vitality of Belt and Road cooperation, but also the dynamism and openness of the Chinese economy. The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, International Monetary Fund, World Bank and Asian Development Bank, among other international institutions, in recent reports revised up their forecast for Chinas economic growth rate. In May, Chinas total imports and exports of goods grew by 8.6 percent year-on-year, 0.6 percentage points higher than the previous month. In the first five months of this year, accumulated imports and exports in China hit a record high compared with the same periods of previous years.

We stand ready to work with countries along the routes of the China-Europe Railway Express to speed up the high-quality development of the China-Europe freight train services, make sure that global industrial and supply chains stay stable, help the world economy grow and bring more benefits to the people of those countries.

Reuters: Its reported that Liaoning police is investigating a case of illegal foreign exchange activity and money laundering. Based on clues from the US, the Chinese government said the case is a good example of China-US counter-narcotics cooperation. Why is it regarded as an example of China-US counter-narcotics cooperation? Can you share more details of the case? How is the China-US counter-narcotics cooperation going? Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy of the US Rahul Gupta is visiting China now. What is Chinas expectation for the visit?

Lin Jian: Id refer you to competent authorities of China for your question.

Bloomberg: Ecuador has temporarily stopped a visa agreement with China, citing a worrying increase in migratory flows from China in recent months. Does the Ministry want to comment on this?

Lin Jian: I answered the question yesterday. Let me stress that the agreement on mutual visa exemption between China and Ecuador, since it took effect in August 2016, has played an important and positive role in promoting cross-border travel and practical cooperation in various fields between the two countries.

AFP: The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that Chinas support for Russias defense industry is prolonging the Ukraine war and has to stop. Do you have any comment on these remarks by Antony Blinken?

Lin Jian: Weve repeatedly stated Chinas position on this. I would like to reiterate that on the Ukraine crisis, China never fuels the flames or exploits the situation for selfish gains and is committed to promoting talks for peace. China does not provide weapons to the parties to the conflict and strictly controls the export of dual-use articles, which is widely recognized by the international community. We firmly oppose attempts of the US to spread baseless disinformation and shift blame to China.

Bloomberg: China and Sri Lanka just held diplomatic consultations in Beijing. Have those talks resulted in progress on a final agreement with China Exim Bank or on an in-principle deal with China Development Bank?

Lin Jian: On the 13th round of China-Sri Lanka diplomatic consultations, China has released a readout, which you may refer to.

What I can tell you is that the Chinese side has been providing assistance to Sri Lankas socioeconomic development to the best of our capability. We stand ready to continue to work with relevant countries and international financial institutions to support Sri Lankas debt sustainability. On your specific question, Id refer you to competent authorities.

Dragon TV: Its reported that at the 2+2 vice-ministerial level diplomatic and security dialogue with the ROK held yesterday, the ROK expressed concerns on defectors and asked China to ensure the DPRK defectors in China are not forcibly returned and can go to their desired destinations. Whats Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: There is no so-called DPRK defectors in China. People who illegally enter China for economic reasons are not refugees. China handles these illegal entries under the principles of both domestic and international laws and the spirit of humanitarianism. We hope relevant side will not politicize this issue and create obstacles for China to handle it.

AFP: The Philippine military said today that the Chinese Coast Guard boarded Filipino boats in the South China Sea this week. They also said that the Chinese Coast Guard seized guns from these boats. The Philippine military said that happened near Renai Jiao. So is that true? Can you tell us what happened exactly?

Lin Jian: Let me stress that what directly led to this situation is the Philippines ignoring of Chinas dissuasion and deliberate intrusion into the waters of Renai Jiao which is part of Chinas Nansha Qundao. The law enforcement action taken by China Coast Guard on the scene was professional and restrained and aimed at stopping the illegal resupply mission. China Coast Guard didnt take direct measures against the Philippine personnel. The Philippines keeps saying that they were sending living necessities, but secretly theyve been trying to send construction materials and even weapons and ammunition to the grounded warship for the long-term occupation of Renai Jiao. China urges the Philippines to stop its infringement and provocation at once. We will continue to defend our sovereignty and lawful rights and interests.

AFP: China will send to the Olympic Games next month in Paris a total of 11 swimmers who have been named in a doping positive case. The US Anti-Doping Agency had criticized the World Anti-Doping Agency, accusing it of hiding this case. Then the World Anti-Doping Agency has said it will send a team to China to investigate the case. Do you have any updates on when the team will come to China?

Lin Jian: We answered relevant questions before. Let me stress that the Chinese government has a zero-tolerance attitude toward doping and strictly abides by the World Anti-Doping Code. China is committed to protecting the physical and mental wellness of our athletes, ensuring fair competition in sport and contributing to the unified global anti-doping campaign.
This situation out east isn't getting any better and locals on illegal vehicles don't show much fear of consequences.



Here's a glimpse at the sitch:

In the incident involving the dirt bikes, the employee was injured while trying to stop illegal dirt biking along Rock Creek Trail near Rotary Park, Rebecca Gannon, a spokesperson for the city of Independence said in an email. Police are investigating the incident, Gannon said.



City manager Zach Walker told Independence City Council members Monday the employee spoke to the people involved before the incident, telling them they were riding in a location where dirt bikes were not allowed.



When he pointed this out to them, they chose to respond by headbutting him and then proceeding to run over him twice with their motorized vehicles, he said.



The employee went to urgent care for treatment and had to get stitches, he said: Our thoughts are certainly with him.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Independence parks employee headbutted, run over by dirt bikes: City manager It was one of three incidents involving the safety of employees in recent weeks highlighted by the city of Independence in a statement provided to The Star Tuesday.
This month's Canada Child Benefit payment is scheduled to be issued Thursday, so if youre entitled to receive it, the money should arrive in your bank account this week.

New base amounts and income thresholds for the tax-free monthly payment meant to help eligible families with the costs of raising children under the age of 18 go into effect next month.

The CCB is recalculated every July based on a familys adjusted net income for the previous year.

Moving forward, families with an adjusted net income under $36,502 will be eligible for the maximum amount for each child.

The base amount for each child under six will bump up to $7,787 per year  a $350 increase from last year. For children between six and 17, the amount will increase by $295, up to $6,570 per child.

What is the CCB?

The CCB is a tax-free monthly payment meant to help eligible families with the costs of raising children under the age of 18.

Your payment might also include child disability payments and any related provincial or territorial programs, depending on your situation.

Among other things, it's based on number of children, marital status and income.

How much is it?

The maximum that families can receive from the CCB from July 2023 until June 2024, based on the 2022 tax returns:

$7,437 per year or $619.75/month for each child under six.

$6,275 per year or $522.92/ month for each child six to 17.

You can receive an additional $3,173 per year if your child qualifies for the Child Disability Benefit.

You can calculate what you can get with the governments child and family benefits calculator.

Payment dates for 2024

Jan. 19

Feb. 20

March 20

April 19

May 17

June 20

July 19

Aug. 20

Sept. 20

Oct. 18

Nov. 20

Dec. 13

When to apply?

You should apply for the CCB as soon as any of the following situations happen:

Your child is born (birth registration).

A child starts to live with you, or returns to live with you after a temporary period with someone else.

You begin, end or change a shared custody arrangement.

You get custody of a child.

You, or your spouse or common-law partner, start to meet the eligibility conditions.

How to apply

You can apply for the CCB when you register the birth of your newborn.

If you didn't apply for the CCB when you registered the birth of your newborn, you can apply online using My Account (your personal CRA account).

Fill out and sign what's called a Form RC66, Canada Child Benefits Application, and mail it to your tax centre.

Ways to sign up

Online  my account portal

You can sign up if you are registered with the Canada Revenue Agency for My Account to manage your tax affairs online, including signing up for direct deposit or changing your account information.

You can also see if you have any uncashed cheques that are older than six months.

Online  mobile application

To start or update direct deposit information, use MyCRA.

By phone

To sign up for direct deposit or to change your account information, call CRA at 1-800-959-8281. You will need your:

social insurance number

full name and current address, including postal code

date of birth

most recent income tax and benefit return and information about the most recent payments you received from the Canada Revenue Agency

banking information: three-digit financial institution number, five-digit transit number, and your account number

Through your financial institution

Includes banks, credit unions and trust companies.

Once you provide consent, your CRA direct deposit information will be updated the following business day. Check with your financial institutions website for information on how to sign up.

What do I do if I don't receive my payment?

Wait five working days from the payment date to contact the Canada Revenue Agency.

If you receive the Canada Child Benefit and have a Canadian bank account, you can sign up for direct deposit rather than waiting to see if the cheque is in the mail.
In 2024, the Mercer Cost of Living City Ranking revealed that Dubai has become the most expensive city in the Middle East for international employees. The annual study lists cities worldwide, ranking them from most to least costly for living expenses.

This year, Dubai jumped three spots to 15th place globally, due to significant rent increases and higher costs for basic needs like food and transportation.

Dubai Living Costs Deter Global Workforce

According to Mercer, the surge in living costs in cities like Dubai is mainly driven by inflated housing markets and elevated prices for goods and services.

This trend is making it increasingly difficult for companies to move employees internationally, as these costs impact the pay and savings of these workers.

Globally, Hong Kong and Singapore continue to top the list as the most expensive cities, with their position unchanged from the previous year. These cities are followed closely by several Swiss cities, including Zurich and Geneva, which contribute to Western Europe's prominence in the top ten rankings.

Conversely, Islamabad, Lagos, and Abuja rank as the least expensive cities, primarily due to currency depreciations affecting their costs of living. This contrast underscores the varied economic conditions across different regions.

In North America, New York City remains the most expensive, ranking 7th globally. Other North American cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco also feature in the top rankings, indicating a trend of rising costs in major U.S. cities.

The report provides crucial data for employers managing international assignments and helps those considering overseas relocation understand the financial implications of moving to cities like Dubai, where living expenses have soared dramatically.

As Dubai's rents continue to rise, it challenges the city's ability to attract and maintain a skilled global workforce.

Related Article : What to Expect at Dubai's Most Expensive Airport in the World

Dubai Boosts Tourism Efforts in Indonesia

Last week, Dubai Tourism hosted its 2024 Roadshow in Jakarta to increase visitor numbers from Indonesia. The event aimed to attract 100,000 travelers from the Southeast Asian market this year.

During the roadshow, tabletop meetings were conducted between ten Dubai-based travel companies and about 100 Indonesian travel agencies.

TTG Asia reported that in 2023, Dubai saw a 36% increase in Indonesian visitors, totaling 75,000.

Shahab Shayan, the regional director for Asia Pacific and Turkey at Dubai Economy and Tourism, noted the consistent rise in tourists from Indonesia, highlighting their loyalty even during the pandemic.

The roadshow featured new attractions such as The Museum of the Future and The View of the Palm, aimed at dispelling myths that Dubai lacks new experiences.

Christian Sidharta, manager for Indonesia at Dubai Tourism, emphasized the diversity of attractions and accommodations Dubai offers, catering to both luxury and budget travelers.

Despite its reputation for high-end travel, Dubai is also positioning itself as an affordable destination with a variety of experiences for all types of tourists.

However, creating unique itineraries for repeat luxury travelers remains a challenge, as they seek more than just the usual attractions.
On Tuesday, airports across India received hoax bomb threats, affecting operations and causing flight delays. Security measures have been heightened at 41 airports, including major locations like Delhi and Chennai. The threats, later confirmed as hoaxes, led to extensive searches but no bombs were found.

India's Airports Increase Security after Threats

India faced a security scare this Tuesday when 41 airports across the nation received bomb threat emails.

The threats prompted an immediate response from airport authorities, resulting in increased security checks and delayed flights, especially for those bound for Dubai from Delhi and Chennai.

According to the Times of India, Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport officials were alerted to a potential bomb on a Dubai-bound flight. This caused a significant delay, even though the threat was later debunked as a hoax.

Around the same time, a similar situation unfolded at Chennai airport, delaying an Emirates flight scheduled for the morning.

In Coimbatore, the international airport also received a disturbing email warning of bombs that could explode at any moment. The airport's director, S Senthil Valavan, noted that while the threat wasn't specific, it led to a full-scale alert with bomb squads and sniffer dogs in action.

Despite the tension, flight operations were not disrupted.

The situation was mirrored at Patna and Jaipur airports, where authorities conducted thorough searches. The Jaipur police, after a complete check, confirmed that nothing suspicious was found.

Likewise, heightened security measures were also reported at Vadodara airport following a similar threat received in the afternoon.

Across India, these incidents have put airport security teams on high vigilance, though all reported threats have turned out to be false alarms.

Officials continue to investigate the source of these emails and have assured the public that every precaution is being taken to ensure safety and minimize disruption to travel.

Related Article : Air India Express Grounds Over 90 Flights as Cabin Crew Call in Sick

India Set for Major Aviation Growth

Global airlines are planning to add more flights and expand their operations in India, expecting it to become a leading travel destination in the next ten years.

This prediction was shared at a major aviation conference in Dubai, which attracted airline CEOs and aircraft leasing companies from around the world.

Reuters mentioned that India's domestic air travel market is projected to double by 2030, reaching 300 million passengers, up from 152 million in 2023. Similarly, international passenger numbers are expected to grow from 64 million to 160 million by 2030.

To capitalize on this growth, airlines like Turkish Airlines and Hungary-based Wizz Air are planning new routes to India.

The optimism in India's market potential is also prompting Indian airlines such as IndiGo and Air India to order hundreds of new planes. The government is supporting this expansion by investing about $12 billion in new and upgraded airports.

Despite the excitement, some international airlines like Emirates and Turkish Airlines are voicing frustrations over limited flight capacity rights in India, as the government focuses on strengthening domestic carriers.

This growth phase is largely driven by India's large diaspora and a new generation of wealthier, young Indian travelers.
Health, food preservation workshops planned for Southeast Alaska

Photo courtesy of Sarah Lewis

Sarah Lewis stands at the stern of the Pacific Sapphire, on which she will travel to Southeast Alaska communities to teach classes about healthy living and preserving food safely and to conduct canner gauge tests.

A University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service agent will travel by boat to nine communities in Southeast Alaska to teach classes on healthy living, food safety and food preservation.

Sarah Lewis, the services Juneau-based health, home and family development agent, will head out on her familys boat, the Pacific Sapphire, in July.

She will visit Whale Pass on July 6; Thorne Bay on July 8; Ketchikan from July 12-14; Metlakatla from July 16-18; Meyers Chuck on July 20; Wrangell on July 28-29; Petersburg on July 31-Aug. 1; Kake on Aug. 3-4; and Tenakee Springs on Aug. 8.

Lewis will teach classes on food safety and preservation, healthy homes, and healthy eating. She will also give away free publications and test pressure canner dial gauges in each community.

Lewis will also be at the Southeast Alaska State Fair in Haines on July 25-26.

This is the fourth time Lewis has visited remote Southeast Alaska communities by boat. She said it is more time- and cost-effective than traveling by ferry or plane, so she can visit more locations.

Many of the activities are free; others have a small fee. Visit https://bit.ly/SoutheastCES2024 for schedules and registration links.

For more information, contact Lewis at sarah.lewis@alaska.edu, 907-455-2010. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made five business days in advance to Lewis.

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The Russian armys combat losses in Ukraine from February 24, 2022 to June 19, 2024 amount to about 529,750 invaders, including another 1,130 troops killed or wounded in action in the past day.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said this in a post on Facebook, according to Ukrinform.

The Ukrainian defenders have also destroyed 7,984 enemy tanks (+10 in the past day), 15,319 armored combat vehicles (+12), 14,007 artillery systems (+48), 1,104 multiple launch rocket systems (+48), 857 air defense systems (+4), 359 aircraft, 326 helicopters, 11,221 unmanned aerial vehicles (+34), 2,297 cruise missiles, 28 warships/cutters, 1 submarine, 19,078 motor vehicles (+47), and 2,351 special equipment units (+7).

Information on enemy losses is being updated.

As Ukrinform reported, 113 combat engagements occurred on the front lines over the past day. The situation remains hottest in the Pokrovsk sector.
Ukraines law enforcers have identified the Ukrainian soldier who was beheaded by Russian invaders after being captured.

Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin announced this on his Facebook page, Ukrinform reports.

"As for the investigation of the brutal murder of the Ukrainian defender in Donetsk region, which was reported yesterday, the fallen serviceman has been identified. At the moment, we cannot name him pending procedures for the final confirmation," the top prosecutor wrote.

Ukrainian law enforcers have also identified Russian commanders potentially responsible for the beheading of the Ukrainian soldier, the Prosecutor General informed.

Kostin emphasized that the brutal murder of a Ukrainian prisoner of war is another confirmation that complete disregard for international law and universal morality is part of Russia's state policy.

"Every world leader who shakes Putins hand should realize that they shake hands with someone who tolerates barbaric murders," he said.

As reported, the day before Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin said that, according to available information, Russian commanders gave orders not to capture Ukrainian servicemen, but instead to kill them with inhuman cruelty  through decapitation. One such case was confirmed in Donetsk region.

In April, the head of the Department for Combating Crimes Committed in the Armed Conflict, Yuriy Belousov, said the Prosecutor General's Office is probing 27 cases of the execution of 54 Ukrainian prisoners of war.
Ukraine, unlike Russia, perceives other countries as equals, based on the principle of respect for all nations, which is the basis of the UN Charter.

This was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, commenting on the accession to the communique of the Antigua and Barbuda Peace Summit and the Organization of American States, Ukrinform reports.

"We perceive the whole world as equals, and this is our ideological difference from Russia in international relations. We respect every nation and count on every vote in cooperation between peoples. This is how the UN Charter is structured  so that all states matter. Putin, on the other hand, wants only him or someone else whom he himself determines to matter. This is a typically colonial view of the world in Russia, which we, together with all partners, must break," Zelensky said.

According to the Head of State, the format of the Peace Summit, the format of further preparatory work for the second Summit will ensure fair treatment of every nation, every state.

Read also: Zelensky showers praise on combat performance of mobile air defense groups

As reported, the Peace Summit was held on June 15-16 in the Swiss resort of Burgenstock. It discussed nuclear security, food security, and the humanitarian dimension - the exchange of prisoners and the return of abducted Ukrainian children.

A communique was signed following the Summit. The document remains open for accession.

On Wednesday, June 19, Antigua and Barbuda and the Organization of American States joined the communique.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un at a meeting with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang expressed full support for Russia's war in Ukraine and pledged to strengthen strategic cooperation with Moscow.

That's according to Yonhap, which cites the Russian propaganda news outlet TASS, Ukrinform reports.

"The government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea ... expresses its full support and solidarity with the Russian government, Army and people in conducting the 'special military operation' [war] in Ukraine with a view to protecting sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity," Kim was quoted as saying.

Kim said relations between the two countries are "entering a new period of prosperity," praising Russia's role in the global strategic balance and vowing to "strengthen strategic cooperation" with Russia.

Putin, in turn, thanked Kim for Pyongyang's support for Moscow's policy on Ukraine and said a new "fundamental document" has been prepared to serve as a basis for relations between the two countries.

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin on Wednesday morning began his first state visit to North Korea in the 24 years of his rule.

Following the negotiations, Putin and Kim are expected to sign an agreement on a comprehensive strategic partnership, which will increase the level of bilateral relations between their countries and allow the deepening of cooperation in all spheres, in particular, in the military sector.

Photo: Yonhap
The Organization of American States (OAS) has joined the communique of the first Peace Summit held in Switzerland on June 15-16.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced this on X, Ukrinform reports.

"One more signature for the first Peace Summit communique. The Organization of American States joined the document. I am grateful to the OAS, an important regional organization that brings together 32 states from South and North America and its Secretary General Luis Almagro for supporting global efforts to restore the UN Charter's full strength," Zelensky said.

According to him, the communique of the first Peace Summit is being signed by an increasing number of states and organizations, demonstrating its global significance.

"The document reinforces respect for international law's fundamental norms, which protect all peace-loving nations. We continue to encourage everyone to join our global efforts that promote equality for all nations, bring a just peace for Ukraine closer, and provide opportunities for global leadership," Zelensky added.

Read also: Zelensky thanks Antigua and Barbuda for joining Peace Summit communique

The Summit on Peace in Ukraine was held on June 15-16 in the Swiss resort of Burgenstock. The summit participants discussed nuclear security, food security and the humanitarian dimension - the exchange of prisoners and the return of kidnapped Ukrainian children.

The communique remains open for accession by any nation.

The results of the Peace Summit will be handed over to Russian representatives.

Antigua and Barbuda joined the communique on June 19.
Urgent: Fire breaks out at Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk

Xinhua) 08:46, June 19, 2024

STOCKHOLM, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Fire broke out at a building of Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk in Copenhagen, local media reported on Tuesday.

Danish Ekstra Bladet quoted sources as saying that "a big bang from the large building complex" had been heard, and that a cloud of black smoke rose from the buildings north of Copenhagen.

Ekstra Bladet quoted police source as saying that the fire was under control and that a "large force of fire vehicles" had been sent over to the scene.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Italy keeps boosting food exports to Azerbaijan, Italian Ambassador Luca Di Gianfrancesco said at a press conference in Baku today, Trend reports.

Supplies of food products occupy a large place in Italys trade turnover. Exports of food products from Italy to Azerbaijan in April increased by 13 percent year on year, he explained.

The ambassador further highlighted the abundance of chances for the two nations to forge new relationships and explore commercial possibilities.

Major international events, such as the COP29 conference, can also contribute to this, the diplomat added.

To note, Luca di Gianfrancesco was appointed to the post of Ambassador in Baku on May 20. This post was previously held by Claudio Taffuri.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. A few days ago, the French publication Le Figaro ran an article about Ruben Vardanyan, a Russian businessman of Armenian descent, who is notoriously known for his past leadership of Armenian separatists. It's worth mentioning that the original material was first published in the Armenian Armenews online magazine. The article reports that Vardanyan's relatives have appealed to the UN, making yet another defamatory claim against Azerbaijan.

After the events of September 19-20, when Azerbaijan liberated Khankendi, Vardanyan attempted to leave Karabakh along with other Armenians fleeing the region. However, he was caught and is currently detained by Azerbaijani security services, awaiting his sentence.

In response to Le Figaro's pro-Armenian piece, the French La Gazette du Caucase online publication revealed the truth about Vardanyan's activities before he became the "minister" of Karabakh separatists and what he was actually aiming for while in Azerbaijan.

"Le Figaro recently presented Ruben Vardanyan as an "Armenian philanthropist, nominated for the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize for his charitable and humanitarian activities." According to the newspaper, he "decided to settle in Karabakh after the 2020 war to help the local population." However, this narrative is skillfully constructed by Armenian nationalists," the article reads.

The authors reminded that, in March 2019, 22 members of the European Parliament called for an investigation into Vardanyan. Why exactly? "Born in Yerevan, Vardanyan is one of the richest men in Russia. After leaving Armenia, he amassed a considerable fortune in Moscow during the decade of gangster capitalism that followed the collapse of the Soviet Union. Parliamentarians accuse him of laundering billions of Euros on behalf of the Russian leadership through his native Armenia," they explain further.

From 2005 through 2022, Vardanyan headed the Troika Dialog investment bank, the article noted. The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) revealed that Troika Dialog had created a vast network of offshore companies that handled laundered money from Russia. Approximately $4.6 billion passed through 76 companies registered abroad. He then publicly renounced his Russian citizenship in 2022 to escape Western sanctions. Unlike most people who have made the same decision, he retained his assets, businesses, and bank accounts.

The article further noted that Vardanyan used his significant financial power to mobilize the Armenian diaspora and certain political supporters, particularly in France.

"He intensified his lobbying of the media and Western politicians to rally public opinion to the cause of Armenian Karabakh. Karabakh itself held little interest for him until he discovered the region's hidden wealth: two long-dormant gold mines that he reopened shortly after his arrival. He then seized the region's copper, molybdenum, and gold deposits, recognized by international bodies as belonging to Azerbaijan, and exploited them in violation of environmental regulations," the authors noted.

Vardanyan then launched a vast campaign to discredit Azerbaijanis who protested this cause with the support of nationalist diasporas, particularly in France, says the article. "He incited Armenians to participate in anti-Azerbaijani demonstrations, claiming that environmental protests masked a blockade organized by Baku to "starve" the Armenians of Karabakh. This campaign, based on the Azerbaijani "blockade" of the Lachin road, was widely reported in the French media, thanks to the complicity of certain journalists, media managers, and elected representatives. These figures find a convergence between Armenian extremism, which advocates an imaginary "civilizational conflict",and their own supremacist and Islamophobic ideology, as well as significant electoral interest given the political weight of the large French diaspora".

"Since then, Azerbaijan has reclaimed its territory in Karabakh and arrested "good Mr. Ruben." Azerbaijan and Armenia are now on the brink of achieving definitive peace. Only the diaspora, which has more members than Armenia has inhabitants, and a few journalists and politicians with vested interests, continue to respond to Vardanyan's media and financial influence. However, this will only be temporary, and the last stand of the oligarch's supporters will eventually falter in the face of peace," La Gazette du Caucase concludes.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The Western Azerbaijani Community issued a statement in connection with France's sale of weapons to Armenia, Trend reports.

France is taking steps to penetrate the South Caucasus region in order to aggravate the situation there. On June 18, 2024, an agreement was signed on the supply of CAESAR self-propelled artillery systems and shells from France to Armenia.

On the same day, a group of French politicians appealed to the French President to send troops to Armenia. The fact that this is an organized campaign is beyond doubt. It is obvious that France is trying to commit a provocation in the region and, taking advantage of the current situation, send troops there.

The Western Azerbaijani Community extremely strongly condemns the dangerous games and unacceptable provocations of France.

The actions of the Armenian leadership, which, on the one hand, talks about peace, and on the other, purchases offensive weapons, are contradictory. In this regard, the Western Azerbaijani Community demands that Armenia not succumb to French provocations, put an end to the large-scale militarization program it is implementing and take the path of peace with Azerbaijan," the statement said.
The University of Michigan has come under scrutiny for its handling of discrimination complaints, particularly those related to antisemitism and Islamophobia. In several high-profile incidents over the past academic year, university officials deemed certain actions and statements as protected free speech, prompting criticism from the Education Department's Office for Civil Rights (OCR). This article delves into the key incidents, the university's response, and the subsequent OCR investigation.

Incidents Prompting OCR Investigation

Several incidents at the University of Michigan highlighted potential failures in complying with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which mandates that federally funded institutions prevent harassment and discrimination based on shared ancestry. Among these incidents was the case of a Jewish student who reported a harassing social media post from a graduate student instructor. The university classified the post as free speech and declined to pursue formal conflict resolution. Similarly, complaints about posts from student groups containing the phrase "from the river to the sea" were dismissed on free speech grounds.

In another incident, a student who attended a pro-Palestinian protest was told she had "terrorist friends." The university responded with restorative circles for staff, faculty, and students but took no further action. These responses were criticized for not adequately addressing the hostile environments reported by students. OCR reviewed 75 reports of alleged shared ancestry discrimination or harassment during the 2023-24 academic year and found no evidence that the university complied with its Title VI obligations to assess whether these incidents created a hostile environment.

READ MORE : Yale, Michigan Presidents To Face Private Capitol Hill Questioning Over Campus Antisemitism Allegations

OCR's Findings and Agreements

The OCR's investigation concluded that the University of Michigan failed to investigate and remedy situations to prevent a hostile environment. The university has since agreed to update its policies on handling Title VI complaints. This agreement is part of broader efforts by OCR to ensure universities comply with civil rights laws. The University of Michigan, along with the City University of New York (CUNY), has committed to several steps to improve its response to discrimination complaints.

These steps include reviewing or re-investigating reports of shared ancestry discrimination or harassment, conducting campus climate surveys, and training employees on how to respond to alleged discrimination. The goal is to bring institutions into compliance with Title VI, focusing on remediation rather than punishment. However, OCR's actions signal a stricter enforcement of Title VI, particularly in the context of increasing scrutiny on how universities handle antisemitism and Islamophobia.

The Implications for Higher Education

The resolution agreements with the University of Michigan and CUNY are significant as they reflect OCR's evolving approach to enforcing Title VI. This approach emphasizes thorough investigations into complaints, similar to how colleges handle reports of sexual harassment under Title IX. It requires universities to engage with witnesses and students involved in incidents to determine whether a hostile environment exists.

Higher education institutions are now under pressure to scrutinize incidents more closely and to distinguish between free speech and discriminatory harassment. As Brigid Harrington, a higher education attorney, noted, universities must thoroughly investigate allegations of harmful environments, balancing free speech rights with the need to prevent discrimination.

The agreements also underscore the importance of campus climate surveys and comprehensive training programs for staff and students. These measures are intended to foster an environment where all students can learn without fear of discrimination. While the OCR's initial goal is compliance, failure to adhere to these agreements could result in more severe consequences, including the potential loss of federal funding.

The University of Michigan and CUNY cases serve as a wake-up call for other universities. As OCR continues to investigate and enforce Title VI, institutions must be proactive in addressing discrimination complaints. This involves updating policies, improving training, and ensuring thorough investigations. The heightened scrutiny on university compliance with Title VI highlights the need for robust measures to protect students from discrimination based on shared ancestry, ensuring a safe and inclusive educational environment.
The Biden administration's attempt to overhaul Title IX, the federal gender-equity law, has hit a significant roadblock. A federal judge has issued an order temporarily blocking the regulations from taking effect in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. This ruling marks a critical moment in the ongoing debate over the scope and interpretation of Title IX, which has profound implications for educational institutions across the United States.

Judicial Ruling Halts Title IX Changes

Chief Judge Danny Reeves of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky found the Biden administration's final regulations, which clarify that Title IX prohibits discrimination based on sexual and gender identity, to be inconsistent with the original statute and congressional intent. Judge Reeves argued that the expanded definition of sex-based discrimination undermines the fundamental purpose of Title IX.

Reeves stated that Title IX, enacted as part of the Education Amendments of 1972, was designed to eliminate sex-based discrimination and ensure equal educational opportunities for men and women. He expressed concern that the new regulations disrupt the traditional understanding of the statute, thereby "wreaking havoc on Title IX." According to Reeves, the statutory language clearly prohibits discrimination "on the basis of sex," but the Department of Education's reinterpretation to include gender identity and sexual orientation deviates from this mandate.

The Broader Legal Battle

Reeves is not alone in his opposition to the Biden administration's Title IX regulations. This ruling follows a similar injunction granted to Idaho, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Montana, bringing the total number of states where the regulations are blocked to ten. Moreover, 26 Republican attorneys general have challenged the new rules in seven different lawsuits, indicating widespread legal resistance.

The primary contention among the plaintiffs is that the revised regulations could lead to the prohibition of gender-specific facilities such as restrooms and locker rooms, infringing on privacy and safety concerns. They argue that the changes are "arbitrary and capricious" and infringe upon First Amendment rights. Reeves echoed these sentiments in his ruling, criticizing the Department of Education for failing to adequately address public concerns about safety and privacy during the comment period.

The judge pointed out that the department's dismissal of these concerns was insufficient. He noted that simply disagreeing with the commenters without providing substantial evidence or reasoning was inadequate for such a significant policy shift. Reeves' ruling emphasized that a more thorough consideration of the implications for student and faculty safety was necessary.

Implications and Next Steps

The temporary injunction has significant implications for the implementation of the new Title IX regulations. For now, educational institutions in the affected states will continue to operate under the previous understanding of Title IX, which does not explicitly include protections based on sexual and gender identity. This creates a patchwork of compliance requirements across the country, as other states may adopt the new regulations while legal challenges are resolved.

The Biden administration is expected to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. This legal battle is likely to continue, with potential ramifications reaching the Supreme Court. The outcome of these appeals will be crucial in determining the future scope of Title IX and the extent to which it protects against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

In the meantime, educational institutions and policymakers must navigate the uncertain legal landscape, balancing compliance with federal directives against judicial rulings. This situation highlights the complex interplay between federal authority, state rights, and judicial oversight in shaping educational policy in the United States.

As the debate over Title IX continues, it underscores the broader societal discussions about gender identity, equality, and the role of government in ensuring fair treatment for all individuals. The resolution of this issue will not only impact educational institutions but also set a precedent for how gender identity is addressed in other areas of public policy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent an appeal to the participants of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center, Trend reports.

"Dear meeting participants,

Dear friends,

I sincerely welcome you at the opening of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center.

The Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC), which operates guided by the eminent Azerbaijani poet and thinker Nizami Ganjavis philosophical thought and progressive ideas, as well as by universal values and principles, has swiftly gained immense relevance and confidence and transformed into one of the worlds leading international institutions in a short span of time.

The initiatives launched by the NGIC and its new approaches in addressing the pressing issues in the global agenda are commended and highly appreciated in the international arena.

For a long time, tackling climate change has remained among the top priority matters in the global agenda. Climate crisis and its consequences, a shared problem for humanity, have hampered countries sustainable development and prosperity, significantly impacting ordinary peoples daily lives and lifestyles.

As you know, late last year, by the unanimous decision of the states worldwide, the Republic of Azerbaijan was honored to be chosen as a host of the 29th Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). I wish to state that Azerbaijan is fully vested in the preparations for COP29, and spares no effort to solidify solidarity for a green, fair, inclusive and sustainable world, ensuring positive outcomes for the sake of our planets future.

Our country will seek cooperation with other nations to identify smart solutions in tackling climate change that concerns all of humanity. In the meantime, we are open to engagement with non-governmental organizations and think tanks that are eager to contribute to this cause. In this regard, I highly appreciate the efforts by the Centers valuable members and partners alike in supporting us by sharing their vast knowledge and expertise throughout this 3-day event in Baku and liberated city of Zangilan, with respect to the preparations for COP29.

Despite significant steps taken so far by the international community to prevent global warming, there are still new challenges and aggravating threats ahead of us. Furthermore, it is an already universally recognized reality that we are running out of time to mobilize the international communitys efforts and undertake joint emergency measures and urgent actions to limit global warming to 1,5 C.

The COP29 to be held in Baku will see the talks on agreeing upon a new collective quantified goal on climate finance post-2025. Our ultimate objective is to agree on a new collective quantified goal to address the increasing financial burden faced by developing nations in coping with climate change. This investment in our shared future represents a collective responsibility toward both present and future generations. Azerbaijan will take all the necessary measures to ensure advancing these negotiations in transparency and inclusivity, as well as accelerating the implementation of previous commitments and pledges.

In the meantime, addressing the challenges faced by the Small Island Developing States, which are most impacted by the negative consequences of climate change, will be among priority issues on our COP29 Presidency agenda.

Having assumed the Presidency of this esteemed event, Azerbaijan will spare no effort to foster genuine and result-oriented dialogue with all the parties to advance the COP process, ensure efficient climate action and conclude the COP29 with successful outcomes.

I believe that in the coming days, discussions among NGIC members on mitigation and adaptation, financing, climate change impacts on biodiversity, water and food security, the current state of affairs in food and agriculture sectors, as well as deliberations on such topics as science, technology and innovation will contribute to advancing climate action agenda and making critical decisions for our planet in preparation for COP29.

I extend my best wishes to you and wish the 29th High-Level Meeting every success," the address reads.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Jun, 2024) Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (IDCPC) and member of the Communist Partys Central Committee Liu Jianchao will visit Islamabad from June 20-22, 2024, at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar.

During the visit, Minister Liu will co-chair with the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister the Third Meeting of the Pakistan-China Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) of the Political Parties on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

He will also call on the senior civil and military leadership of Pakistan, according to a Foreign Office press release.

Established in 2019, the JCM of Political Parties on CPEC is a regular consultation mechanism between the Communist Party of China and the political parties of Pakistan.

Previous meetings were held on March 19, 2019 in Beijing and on August 20, 2020 virtually.

At the Third Meeting of the JCM, Pakistan and China will review the progress of CPEC projects, CPECs contribution to Pakistans socioeconomic development, and its up-gradation and extension for regional connectivity.

The visit is a part of high-level exchanges between Pakistan and China including between the Communist Party of China and the political parties of Pakistan.

It reflects the importance attached by the two countries to further deepen their All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, reaffirm mutual support on issues of respective core interests, advance high-quality development of CPEC and enhance communication and dialogue on important regional and global developments.
Toronto, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Jun, 2024) A new line of PCs specially made to run artificial intelligence programs hit stores on Tuesday as tech companies push toward wider adoption of ChatGPT-style AI.

microsoft in May announced the new AI-powered personal computers, or "AI PCs," which will use the company's software under the Copilot Plus brand.

The idea is to allow users to access AI capabilities on their devices without relying on the cloud, which requires more energy, takes more time, and makes the AI experience clunkier.

The PCs feature a neural processing unit (NPU) chip that helps deliver crisper photo editing, live transcription, translation, and "Recall" -- a capability for the computer to keep track of everything being done on the device.

However, Microsoft removed Recall last minute over privacy concerns and said it would only make it available as a test feature.

For now, the devices built by hardware makers like HP and ASUS run exclusively on a new line of processors called Snapdragon X Elite and Plus, built by the California-based chip giant Qualcomm.

"We are redefining what a laptop actually does for the end user," Qualcomm's senior vice president Durga Malladi told AFP at the Collision tech conference in Toronto.

"We believe this is the rebirth of the PC."

At the May launch, Microsoft predicted over 50 million AI PCs would be sold in 12 months, given the appetite for ChatGPT's powers.

Such a result would give a much needed boost to PC sales, which declined for two years from the halcyon days of the coronavirus pandemic before returning to growth in the first quarter of 2024.

Best Buy, the US retail giant, said it had trained tens of thousands of staff to sell and maintain the new line of AI PCs.

Some industry experts are more hesitant about their promise, predicting the actual benefit of upgrading to an AI laptop isn't compelling enough yet and will need more time.

"AI's evolutionary features aren't revolutionary enough to disrupt traditional buying patterns," said analysts from Forrester.

"For most information workers, there aren't enough game-changing applications for day-to-day work to drive rapid AI PC adoption."
(@FahadShabbir)

New York, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Jun, 2024) Boeing's CEO acknowledged to a US congressional panel Tuesday that the company's culture was imperfect, but insisted the aviation giant was making progress and committed to improving safety.

"Our culture is far from perfect, but we are taking action and making progress," Calhoun said early in the hearing. Calhoun opened his remarks by standing to apologize to family members of victims from two Boeing 737 MAX in 2018 and 2019.

The hearing, an examination of "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture," follows an April session of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations featuring a Boeing engineer who testified that he was punished for raising safety questions about the top-selling 787 Dreamliner and 777.

Calhoun's appearance marks his first testimony before a congressional panel since an alarming mid-flight incident in January on a 737 MAX plunged the company back into crisis mode. US investigators are still probing the incident with the Alaska Airlines plane, which made an emergency landing after a fuselage panel blew out.

On Tuesday morning, the Senate committee detailed additional complaints from Boeing workers, including an official filing from a whistleblower who worried that Boeing's lax policies on the use of damaged or inadequate parts could "lead to a catastrophic event," according to a subcommittee memo.

Boeing stands "at a moment of reckoning and an opportunity to change a broken safety culture," said Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, who is chairing the hearing.

The session comes ahead of a Department of Justice determination on next steps after concluding in May that the company could be prosecuted for violating a criminal settlement following two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, off Indonesia and in Ethiopia.

Blumenthal said there "is near overwhelming evidence... that prosecution should be pursued."

The DOJ has said it will notify a Federal court of its plans by July 7.

- New whistleblower -

At the April 17 hearing, witnesses painted a disturbing picture of a company that dismissed safety questions and sidelined critics as it chased faster production and bigger profits.

The star witness was engineer Sam Salehpour, who went public with allegations that, because of flawed manufacturing processes, the Dreamliner could suffer a potentially catastrophic accident because of excessively large gaps in the plane's assembly.

Boeing has pointed to extensive testing that it says proves the 787 is safe.

Calhoun emphasized that he welcomes when workers speak out about problems, viewing such expressions as a critical component of safety.

He also pledged to get back to the committee on questions about workers who may have been fired for expressing concerns about safety.

Calhoun also said he would provide details on instances on how the company responds to workers who engage in retaliation against workers who speak out.

In connection with the probe, Blumenthal and Senator Ron Johnson, a Republican, sent a letter to Calhoun seeking records that would shed light on Salehpour's allegations about the 787 and 777, as well as records relating to Boeing's whistleblower policies and protocols.

The same two senators also sent a letter to FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker related to the allegations, as well as other ongoing Boeing-related matters, such as a six-week FAA audit of the company following the Alaska Airlines incident.

The Senate panel on Tuesday released details on additional workers who have come forward with problems.

This includes a new whistleblower, Sam Mohawk, who said that Boeing ordered improperly stored parts to be hidden from federal aviation inspectors, who would have demanded Boeing increase storage capacity and hire additional staff, raising costs.

The hearing was attended by a small group of family members who lost relatives in the 2018 and 2019 MAX crashes, which together claimed 346 lives. The group held signs with their loved ones at the outset of the session.

They also held a press conference just ahead of the hearing.

Calhoun is a "mass killer," said Adnaan Stumo, brother to Nadia Milleron, who died in the Ethiopian Airlines crash. "There needs to be criminal charges for the people at the top. The people in the driver's seat were responsible for 346 deaths, including my sister."
LONDON, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Jun, 2024) King Charles III has conferred the Commander of the British Empire (CBE) honour upon Asif Rangoonwala, a British-Pakistani philanthropist and entrepreneur.

Asif Rangoonwala has been honoured by King Charles III in the 2024 Birthday Honours list for his philanthropic contributions in the United Kingdom and South Asia, particularly in Pakistan.

Asif Rangoonwala CBE, Vice Chair of the British Asian Trust (BAT), was recognized for his contributions to charity and philanthropy.

Asif Rangoonwala CBE, talking to the media, said, "I am profoundly honoured and humbled by this recognition. I am committed to advancing our mission of fostering a fairer and more compassionate world."

He thanked his colleagues who had helped him over the years. Public service is a legacy I inherit from my parents as they were devoted to helping others and social causes. We are working in several areas in Karachi but our work in the education sector is of phenomenal nature and tens and thousands of under-priviledged children are benefitting from our schemes. We plan to increase the scope and nature of our work.

Asif Rangoonwala said more British Pakistanis should be honoured and recognised. We are one of the most integrated communities in the UK and we play a vital role in all areas of public life. We will be working to bring out more heroes and role models from our communities. There are hundreds of Pakistanis in the UK doing a magnificent job and they deserve more recognition.



Another Vice-Chair of the British Asian Trust, Shalni Arora was awarded the title of Order of the British Empire (OBE) for advancing the Trust's mission to tackle poverty and inequality.

Shalni Arora OBE said, This award is a testament not just to me but to the incredible work of so many partners. Together, we strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate society, and I share this award with everyone who has supported our mission.

Lord Jitesh Gadhia, Chair of the British Asian Trust, expressed his congratulations: Asif and Shalnis passion and commitment to charitable causes are truly inspiring.

"Their leadership has been pivotal in advancing our goals and making a tangible difference to the lives of those we serve. We are immensely proud of their achievements and this well-deserved recognition.

As a prominent business leader and philanthropist, Asif has been a driving force in the philanthropic landscape for many years, with a focus on creating positive change within communities both in the UK and South Asia.

Through the Rangoonwala Foundation, he has championed numerous projects aimed at improving the quality of life for disadvantaged individuals in several parts of the world including Pakistan, with a focus on Karachi. The Foundation's work includes providing scholarships for underprivileged students, funding medical research and facilities and supporting community development programmes.

Asif Rangoonwala runs several companies from his Central London headquarters.
Damascus, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Jun, 2024) A Syrian army officer was killed Wednesday in an Israeli air strike in the country's south, the official SANA news agency reported, citing a military source.

"The Israeli enemy carried out an aggression using drones against two military positions of our armed forces in the provinces of Quneitra and Daraa," the agency said, adding the attack resulted in the death of the officer and material damage.

Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on its northern neighbour since the outbreak of Syria's civil war, mainly targeting Syrian army positions and Iran-backed fighters including from Lebanon's Hezbollah group.

The strikes increased after Israel's war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip began on October 7, when the Iran-backed Palestinian militant group launched an unprecedented attack against Israel.

While Israel rarely comments on individual strikes in Syria, it has repeatedly said it will not allow arch-enemy Iran to expand its presence in the country.

Syria's conflict has killed more than half a million people and displaced millions more since it broke out in 2011 after security forces cracked down on anti-government protests.
Geneva, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Jun, 2024) Israel's repeated use of heavy bombs in the densely-populated Gaza Strip indicates repeated violations of the laws of war, the UN said Wednesday, highlighting six attacks that killed at least 218 people.

In a fresh report, immediately slammed by Israel as deeply biased, the United Nations rights office provided details on the six attacks, which it said were emblematic of a concerning pattern.

They involved the suspected use of up to 2,000-pound bombs on residential buildings, a school, refugee camps and a market.

The rights office, known by the acronym OHCHR, said it had verified 218 deaths in those attacks, which were carried out in the early months of the war on October 7, but said it had information indicating the number of fatalities "could be much higher".

"The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimise to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign," UN rights chief Volker Turk said in a statement.

The report concludes that the series of Israeli strikes, exemplified by the six attacks carried out between October 9 and December 2, suggested that Israel's military had "repeatedly violated fundamental principles of the laws of war", the statement said.
Seoul, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 19th Jun, 2024) Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un kicked off a summit in Pyongyang on Wednesday, where they are likely to discuss ways to boost their sanctions-busting military ties.

Putin arrived in Kim Il Sung square, which was bedecked with Russian and North Korean flags along with large portraits of the two leaders, state media images showed, for a ceremony ahead of talks at the Kumsusan State Guest House, where a "strategic partnership" deal is likely to be signed.

Kim had earlier greeted Putin at the airport, with the two internationally isolated leaders hugging on the red carpet, underscoring the increasingly close relationship that has sparked concern in Seoul and Washington.

It is Putin's first trip to North Korea since 2000 and comes as Western countries accuse Kim of supplying arms to historic ally Russia for use in Ukraine in violation of UN sanctions on both countries, allegations Moscow and Pyongyang have officially denied.

It is also the two leaders' second meeting in a year, after Kim took his bulletproof train to Russia's far east last September for a summit with Putin at a space port.

Putin's return visit highlights the "invincibility and durability" of the bilateral relationship, the official Korean Central news Agency said in a Tuesday report.

Putin is travelling with a slew of Russian officials including Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

Experts have warned the trip is likely to focus on defence ties, although the leaders are expected to publicly highlight cooperation in the economic sector as any arms deals would violate United Nations Security Council resolutions banning Pyongyang's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

"Russia requires North Korea's weapon support due to the prolonged war in Ukraine, while North Korea needs Russia's support in terms of food, energy, and advanced weapons to alleviate the pressure from sanctions," Koh Yu-hwan, North Korean studies emeritus professor at Dongguk University told AFP.

"The military alliance aspect, however, should be viewed separately from what is publicly announced and what is actually discussed in the meetings between the two leaders," he said, adding Moscow was cautious about "completely burning bridges with countries like South Korea.

"

- 'Arsenal for autocracy' -

Pyongyang has described allegations of supplying weapons to Russia as "absurd".

However, it thanked Russia in March for using its Security Council veto to effectively end monitoring of sanctions violations just as UN experts were starting to probe alleged arms transfers.

"Moscow and Pyongyang will likely continue to deny violations of international law but have notably shifted from hiding their illicit activities to flaunting their cooperation," said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha University in Seoul.

The visit is a way for Putin to thank the North "for acting as an 'arsenal for autocracy' in support of his illegal invasion of Ukraine," he said.

The United States voiced "concern" Monday about Putin's trip over the security implications for South Korea as well as Ukraine.

The two Koreas have remained technically at war since their 1950-53 conflict and the border dividing them is one of the most heavily fortified in the world.

Highlighting those security concerns, South Korea said its troops fired warning shots at soldiers from the North who briefly crossed the border Tuesday and then retreated.

The South's military said it believed the North Korean soldiers accidentally crossed as they were fortifying the border, but said some were wounded after detonating landmines.

"This visit can be viewed as Russia's attempt to secure strategic space in Northeast Asia by deepening ties with North Korea at a time when cooperation among South Korea, the US and Japan is strengthening," Seoul-based Institute for National Security Strategy's senior research fellow Kim Sung-bae told AFP.

"This intention is further evidenced by Putin's visit to Vietnam," he said, with the Russian leader set to fly to Hanoi after his trip to the North.
USM hosting 2024 Society for The Study of Southern Literature Conference June 23-26

Wed, 06/19/2024 - 09:28am | By: David Tisdale

For the first time, The Society for the Study of Southern Literature (SSSL) will hold its biennial conference in Mississippi with The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) hosting the event June 23-26 at the Courtyard Marriot, 1600 East Beach Blvd., in Gulfport. The theme for this years event is Reconstruction(s).



The SSSL 2024 conference features keynote speaker Jesmyn Ward, an award-winning novelist and native of the Mississippi Gulf Coast who will discuss her latest work Let Us Descend and give a book signing Sunday, June 23 at 6:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Sponsors for Wards lecture include USMs College of Arts and Sciences, Center for the Study of the Gulf South, School of Coastal Resilience, and School of Humanities, along with Jackson State Universitys (JSU) Department of English and Modern Languages.

Jesmyn Ward Photo credit: Beowulf Sheehan

Another conference event that is free and open to the public will be a literary salon, Write Southern, Write Now! set for Tuesday, June 25 at 7 p.m. and sponsored by the Mississippi Humanities Council, USMs Center for Writers, and JSUs Margaret Walker Center. Featured writers participating in the literary salon include Minrose Gwin and A.H. Jerriod Avant.

All other SSSL 2024 Conference events are open only to registered attendees and members of the organization.

"Were excited to host the SSSL 2024 Biennial Conference, as it marks the first time it has been held in Mississippi, so, it was important to have support from other state institutions - Jackson State University, Mississippi State University, University of Mississippi - as a collective effort for this historic event, said Dr. Sherita Johnson, associate professor of English at USM and current president of the SSSL. And to have Jesmyn Ward as the keynote speaker at the conference signifies the preeminence of Mississippi writing and writers in the canon of Southern Literature today."

Learn more information about the SSSL Conference.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The responsibility of the states which once administered colonies and those continuing the colonization policy is to put an end to this policy, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev told reporters, Trend reports.

He made the remark on the sidelines of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku today.

"This is diplomatic practice and diplomatic discussions. Azerbaijan chaired the Non-Aligned Movement from 2019 through 2022. Those who know the history of the Non-Aligned Movement are well aware that it's an organization formed on the basis of the theme of decolonization, and this theme makes up its core philosophy and main line," he said.

Hajiyev pointed out that one of the countries with specific obligations in this matter is France.

"The overseas regions of France fall under the mandate of decolonization, and we do not consider it appropriate to accuse other countries instead of responding to the protests of these indigenous peoples and addressing their problems," he added.

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Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam.
Two years ago this month, the U.S. Supreme Court reversed its 1973 ruling that legalized abortion. Now, abortion looms as a major issue in this years elections. VOAs senior Washington correspondent Carolyn Presutti looks at how the issue is charging the presidential campaign.
President Joe Biden on Tuesday announced that his administration would offer protections to some undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens. He also marked the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which provides protection for young undocumented immigrants to the U.S. VOAs Anita Powell reports from the White House.
Officials in Chad say they have opened investigations and are calling for calm after an explosion and fire at a military ammunition depot in the capital N'Djamena late Tuesday killed an undisclosed number and wounded others, causing panic in the central African state. Efforts are ongoing to put out the blaze igniting weapons and ammunition.

Chad state TV reports that President Mahamat Idriss Deby has ordered the mobilization of firefighters and military to assure the safety of civilians after deepening sounds of explosions from a military ammunition depot late Tuesday scared residents in the Goudji neighborhood of NDjamena.

Chad media reports that Deby posted on his social media platforms such as Facebook that the fire caused human and material damage but the leader did not say how many people were killed and wounded.

Deby expressed condolences to bereaved families, wished the injured a quick recovery and called for calm among civilians in the capital city, according to Chad state TV. Deby ordered investigations into the causes of the blast, local media reported.

Oumar Mokar sells spare parts for motors at the Central Market in NDjamena.

Oumar says many panic-stricken civilians ran to nearby homes and schools for safety and also remained at home Wednesday morning when they found a large number of government troops on the streets.

Oumar spoke to VOA Wednesday via a messaging app from N'djamena. He said business was resuming gradually with many merchants returning to their shops. He said government troops and firefighters rushed several wounded persons to hospitals in Chad's capital. VOA could not independently verify the claims.

The government said there were disruptions in transportation but did not provide details.

Tuesday's explosion occurred after Deby presided over a meeting of top military and security officials in NDjamena this week. Deby said Chad's security is threatened by disgruntled armed gangs and people who want to see Chad in chaos.

Mahamat Charfadine Marguin, Chad's Public Security minister spoke on Tuesday after the meeting.

He says the security situation in Chad had remained tense ever since Deby was inaugurated as President on May 23 to end three years of military transition and a return to constitutional order. Margui says Chad is planning to deploy its military to hot spots to preserve peace, national unity and territorial integrity as Deby promised during his inauguration.

The central African states Constitutional Council declared Deby the winner of Chad's May 6 presidential election with 61% of the vote. Opposition parties contested the results and accused Deby of vote-rigging, a claim Deby described as unfounded.
A new report finds that the Chinese government has been systematically changing village names with cultural or religious significance to the Uyghurs in Chinas Xinjiang autonomous region to Chinese names showcasing Chinese Communist Party ideologies.

The report, released Wednesday by Human Rights Watch and the Norwegian Uyghur organization Uyghur Hjelp, which co-authored the report, found that around 630 villages have seen elements of religion, Uyghur history, and Uyghur cultural practices, including a traditional Uyghur string instrument dutar and a shrine called mazar, removed from their village names.

Some analysts say the campaign is part of Beijings efforts to erase Uyghur culture and religious expressions. This is a part of the serious abuses that are ongoing for the Uyghurs in Xinjiang, Maya Wang, the Interim China Director at Human Rights Watch, told VOA by phone.

The Chinese government often uses Chinese phrases such as happiness, unity, and harmony to replace those Uyghur village names, according to the report.

New village names are mostly in Mandarin Chinese and they denote a positive sentiment the government wants Uyghurs to embrace and express under the Chinese leadership, the report wrote.

While authorities in Xinjiang continue to change some Uyghur village names, the report said the majority of the name changes took place between 2017 and 2019, which coincides with mass internment of Uyghurs across the region.

Since 2017, Uyghur peoples expressions of who they are, their history, and how they came to be a group of people have been erased or manipulated, Wang said, adding that Beijings goal is to force Uyghur people to conform to the rules they have laid out.

If you practice something different, you could be labeled as an extremist and put under long imprisonment, so this is part of a wholesale erasure [of Uyghur culture and expression], she added.

The report found that most villages that undergo name change are concentrated in prefectures that are predominantly Uyghur, including Aksu, Kashgar, and Hotan in Southern Xinjiang.

In response to findings from the report, the Chinese embassy in Washington D.C. said Uyghur culture has been effectively protected and promoted.

Uyghur population in Xinjiang can use their ethnic language and road signs in Xinjiang are mostly in both Mandarin and Uyghur, Liu Pengyu, the spokesperson of the Chinese embassy, told VOA in a written response.

In 2022, the U.N. high commissioner for human rights determined in a report that the Chinese government had committed human rights abuses against the Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslim minorities in Xinjiang that could constitute crimes against humanity.

According to U.N. estimation, at least one million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities may have been interned in re-education camps by Beijing in Xinjiang since 2017, but China denied these allegations and claimed in 2019 that all Uyghurs in the camps had graduated.

Impact on the Uyghur community

As China continues to change some village names from Uyghur to Chinese, the report found that the campaign has seriously affected the Uyghur community. Based on interviews with 11 Uyghurs, the report found that the name change may increase the difficulty for some Uyghurs to find their villages while others may have difficulty registering for government services.

Some Uyghurs outside Xinjiang feel like they cant even recognize their hometown, Abduweli Ayup, an exiled Uyghur linguist who co-authored the report, told VOA by phone.

The impact of the village name change is accompanied by the effect of Beijings mass detention of Uyghurs, mass surveillance of the Uyghur community, and other persecutions against the Uyghurs, including separation of families, forced labor, and sexual violence.

Some activists say all these efforts are part of the campaign that targets everything that is of the essence for Uyghurs.

This village name change campaign makes some Uyghurs feel like theyre less than the Han Chinese because their culture is backward, Zumretay Arkin, Director of Global Advocacy at World Uyghur Congress, told VOA by phone.

According to Arkin, other campaigns that Beijing has initiated to better assimilate the Uyghurs in the Han Chinese majority is to sinicize mosques across Xinjiang by removing the crescent and dome while replacing religious writings with an homage to the Chinese Communist Party.

In 2017, Human Rights Watch also found that Chinese authorities prohibited Uyghurs from using dozens of names with religious connotations common to Muslims around the world, claiming that using these names could exaggerate religious fervor.

What can the international community do?

Arkin said the Chinese governments efforts to forcibly assimilate Uyghurs into the Han Chinese community have pushed Uyghurs to hide their identity and basic way of life. For Uyghurs living in Xinjiang, they have to constantly hide their identity so they can fit into the mold that the Chinese government has created for them, she told VOA.

Arkin said this trend has shifted the responsibility to preserve Uyghur cultural heritage to the diaspora community. Since the diaspora community has been largely cut off from their family members and friends in Xinjiang, the responsibility of preserving the Uyghur culture has become a heavy burden for the diaspora community, she said.

While the United Nations and foreign governments have condemned Chinas systematic persecution of the Uyghurs and imposed targeted sanctions on Chinese officials, Human Rights Watch said these responses have been ineffective in affecting Beijngs treatment of the Uyghur community.

Ayup urged foreign countries to try to increase pressure on Beijing during the upcoming UN Human Rights Council session.

Concerned governments and the UN human rights office should intensify their efforts to hold the Chinese government accountable for their abuses in the Uyghur region, Ayup told VOA, adding that one priority should be the release of the hundreds of thousands Uyghurs who are still detained in Xinjiang.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday that Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte would be "a very strong candidate" as Stoltenberg's successor to lead the transatlantic military alliance.

While the NATO chief neither confirmed nor denied Rutte's appointment, Stoltenberg said at the end of a joint press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that Rutte "has a lot of experience as prime minister."

Stoltenberg, who described Rutte as "a close friend and colleague," said he believes that "very soon" NATO will make an announcement about the person next in line to lead NATO and "that will be good for all of us, for NATO."

Blinken did not make any direct remarks about Rutte, but said, "I'm confident, very confident, that the alliance will come strongly together behind a new secretary-general, and that when the current Secretary-General Stoltenberg's term ends this fall, there will be a very strong secretary-general in place to pick up the baton."

A major obstacle to Rutte's appointment was lifted Tuesday when Hungary announced its support for Rutte's appointment. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has not been keen on participating in the alliance's support for Ukraine as it battles Russia.

On X, formerly Twitter, Orban posted Tuesday, "Hungary is ready to support PM Rutte's bid for Nato secretary general." The Hungarian leader also posted a letter from Rutte that read if he were to become NATO's leader that Rutte would respect discussions that Orban had held with Stoltenberg about not using Hungarian personnel or funds in Ukraine's fight against Russia.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Azerbaijan ranks among the countries most affected by mine problem, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev told reporters on the sidelines of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku today, Trend reports.

Not just for military reasons, but also after the war, the Armenian side deliberately deployed mines everywhere to impede Azerbaijan's reconstruction and restoration efforts, therefore inflicting the greatest amount of human suffering. This is the targeted mine terror policy of Armenia. Looking at Armenia's policy, we see that mining was carried out not only along the former line of contact but also in areas that had no military significance. The goal of this is to kill people and implement a policy of landmine terrorism.

When we analyze the facts related to recent mine explosions that have harmed people, we again see that most of the mines explode not on the former line of contact but in areas far from it. I want to emphasize once more that this is Armenia's policy of deliberately implementing landmine terrorism. The mine maps provided by Armenia were ineffective, did not reflect the actual conditions on the ground, and were not provided in full. The responsibility for mine terrorism lies directly with Armenia," Hajiyev said.

To note, after the 2020 second Karabakh war, more than 360 people have become landmine victims in Azerbaijan's liberated areas, resulting in 68 fatalities and over 290 injuries as of May 2024.

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A Chinese consortium last month was awarded the contract to develop a deep-sea megaport on Georgias Black Sea coast. But critics say the Georgian government is putting the countrys economy and democracy at risk by turning away from Western partners toward China. Henry Ridgwell reports from Tbilisi.
Hundreds of people died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced intense high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, officials said Wednesday as people tried to claim their loved ones' bodies.

Saudi Arabia has not commented on the death toll amid the heat during the pilgrimage, required of every able Muslim once in their life, nor offered any causes for those who died. However, hundreds of people had lined up at the Emergency Complex in Al-Muaisem neighborhood in Mecca, trying to get information about their missing family members.

One list circulating online suggested at least 550 people died during the five-day Hajj. A medic who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss information not released publicly by the government said that the names listed appeared genuine. That medic and another official who also spoke on condition of anonymity said they believed at least 600 bodies were at the facility.

Deaths arent uncommon at the Hajj, which has drawn at times over 2 million people to Saudi Arabia. There have been stampedes and epidemics throughout the pilgrimages history.

Each year, the Hajj draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from low-income nations, many of whom have had little, if any, pre-Hajj health care, an article in the April edition of the Journal of Infection and Public Health said. Communicable illnesses can spread among the gathered masses, many of whom saved their entire lives for their trips and can be elderly with preexisting health conditions, the paper added.

However, the number of dead this year suggests something caused the number of deaths to swell. Already, several countries have said some of their pilgrims died because of the heat that swept across the holy sites at Mecca, including Jordan and Tunisia.

Temperatures on Tuesday reached 47 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) in Mecca and the sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Center for Meteorology. Onlookers saw some people faint while trying to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil.

At the Grand Mosque in Mecca, temperatures reached 51.8 C (125 F) on Monday though pilgrims had already left for Mina, authorities said.

Others, including many Egyptians, lost track of their loved ones in the heat and the crowds. More than 1.83 million Muslims performed the Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million pilgrims from 22 countries, and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.

On Wednesday at the medical complex in Mecca, an Egyptian man collapsed to the ground when he heard the name of his mother among the dead. He cried for some time before grabbing his cell phone and calling a travel agent, shouting: He left her to die! The crowd tried to calm the man.

Security appeared tight at the complex, with an official reading out names of the dead and the nationalities, which included people from Algeria, Egypt and India. Those who said they were kin of the dead were allowed inside to identify the deceased.

The AP could not independently confirm the causes of death for those bodies held at the complex. Saudi officials did not respond to questions seeking more information.

The kingdom's ruling Al Saud family maintains a major influence in the Muslim world through its oil wealth and management of Islams holiest sites. Like Saudi monarchs before him, King Salman has taken the title of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, referring to the Grand Mosque in Mecca home to the cube-shaped Kaaba that Muslims pray towards five times a day, and the Prophet's Mosque in the nearby city of Medina.

Saudi Arabia has spent billions of dollars on crowd control and safety measures for those attending the annual five-day pilgrimage, but the sheer number of participants makes ensuring their safety difficult.

Climate change could make the risk even greater. A 2019 study by experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that even if the world succeeds in mitigating the worst effects of climate change, the Hajj would be held in temperatures exceeding an extreme danger threshold from 2047 to 2052, and from 2079 to 2086.

Islam follows a lunar calendar, so the Hajj falls around 11 days earlier each year. In 2030, the Hajj will occur in April, and over the next several years it will fall in the winter, when temperatures are milder.

A 2015 stampede in Mina during the hajj killed over 2,400 pilgrims, the deadliest incident to ever strike the pilgrimage, an AP count showed. Saudi Arabia has never acknowledged the full toll of the stampede. A separate crane collapse at Meccas Grand Mosque, which preceded the Mina disaster, killed 111 people.

The second-deadliest incident at Hajj was a 1990 stampede that killed 1,426 people.
Independent investigators have accused Sudans warring parties of driving the country into a humanitarian abyss by blatantly disregarding fundamental human rights and international humanitarian law.

The three-member International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan presented its first oral update Tuesday and Wednesday at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.

The investigators told the council that the lack of concern for the suffering of millions of Sudanese civilians by the warring parties has led to killings, looting, mass displacement, rape and other forms of sexual violence, and resulted in a grave humanitarian crisis.

They accused the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of preventing humanitarian aid from reaching millions of people who are at risk of famine.

Citing the World Food Program, they warned that around 18 million people deprived of sufficient food will face acute hunger, with 5 million on the brink of starvation.

The U.N. reports that rampant violations and abuses, along with the deprivation of essential lifesaving aid, have led to the mass displacement of nearly 9 million people inside Sudan, as well as to more than 1.8 million people fleeing to neighboring countries.

Since the conflict began in April 2023, other armed groups have sprung up to support the two main military forces. Fact-finding mission chair Mohamed Chande Othman said the deadly conflict now involves multiple actors within and outside Sudan and has spread from Khartoum and Darfur to most of the country.

We are deeply concerned that the fighting persists with tragic consequences and enormous suffering of the civilian population, he said.

We have received credible accounts of indiscriminate attacks against civilians and civilian objects, including through airstrikes and shelling in heavily populated residential areas, as well as ground attacks against civilians in their homes and villages, he said. He added that in the capital, Khartoum, and in nearby towns, killings, looting and sexual violence have forced many to leave their homes and property to seek refuge in other locations.

The investigators expressed particular concern about the situation in the Darfur region, especially the siege of the capital, El Fasher  the last stronghold of the SAF, where 1.5 million inhabitants and some 800,000 internally displaced people are in great danger.

Already, heavy fighting between the warring parties in different parts of the city has led to significant civilian casualties, damaged homes and caused mass displacement, Othman said. The attack on one of the main and last functioning hospitals in the city on June 8 led to its closure, leaving the civilian population without access to lifesaving medical care.

The fact-finding mission said it is investigating earlier large-scale attacks against civilians based on their ethnicity in other areas of Darfur. These, said Othman, have included killings, rape and other forms of sexual violence, torture, forced displacement and looting.

The investigators said they also have received credible reports of rampant sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, and that they are investigating reports of sexual slavery and sexualized torture in detention facilities, including against men and boys.

Othman said the mission has received worrying reports about the widespread recruitment and use of children at checkpoints to gather intelligence, as well as to participate in direct combat and commit violent crimes, thereby putting the lives and future of many children at risk.

A June 3 report from U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on children and armed conflict ranks Sudan among the countries with the highest number of grave violations against children in the world.

The fact-finding mission to Sudan is calling for an immediate cease-fire, without which, it said, "it is hard to see the human rights and humanitarian situation in Sudan improving.

Following the presentation of the report, Yassir Bashir Elbukhari Suliman, the chief prosecutor of Sudan, spoke as the representative of the concerned country. He accused the RSF of multiple crimes and atrocities against unarmed civilians, without assigning any blame to the SAF for the commission of similar acts.

Commanders of the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces have previously denied committing war crimes as they battle for control of the country.

Commenting on the situation in Sudan last month, Guterres accused both warring factions of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The son of Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi is "concerned" about her health, he told AFP on Wednesday, as the Nobel laureate turned 79, passing another birthday in military detention.

Suu Kyi has been detained by the military since it toppled her government and seized power in 2021, plunging the Southeast Asian nation into turmoil.

The Nobel laureate is serving a 27-year sentence imposed by a junta court after a trial condemned by rights groups as a sham to shut her out of politics.

Suu Kyi has now spent almost a quarter of her life under house arrest in jail at the hands of the military, whose iron grip on politics she has battled for decades, her son Kim Aris told AFP.

"While I am sure maymay's many years under house arrest will have prepared her for her current period of isolation, given her age and ongoing health issues, I am concerned about her circumstances," he said, using a Burmese word for mother.

Suu Kyi, who remains hugely popular in Myanmar, has been largely hidden from view since the coup, appearing only in grainy state media photos taken during court proceedings.

Local media reported that during her months-long trial, Suu Kyi had suffered dizzy spells, vomiting and at times had been unable to eat because of a tooth infection.

In April, the junta said she had been given "necessary care" as temperatures in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, where she is believed to be held, reached 40 C (104 F).

Arrests

Local media reported that supporters of Suu Kyi had held gatherings to mark her birthday, including wearing flowers in their hair -- long her signature look.

Authorities arrested 22 people for marking Suu Kyi's birthday, local media reported Wednesday.

Police in Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, arrested 22 people who had posted pictures of themselves wearing flowers in their hair, Eleven Media reported, citing an anonymous official.

Other local media said around a dozen had been arrested in the central Myanmar city for wearing flowers or praying with them in public.

A prominent pro-junta Telegram account posted several photos claiming to show those arrested, including one of five people with their legs placed in stocks.

The military seized power making unsubstantiated claims of fraud during 2020 elections won resoundingly by Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy (NLD).

The junta's subsequent crackdown on dissent has sparked a widespread armed uprising that the military is struggling to crush.

The junta has rebuffed numerous requests by foreign leaders and diplomats to meet Suu Kyi.

Her only known encounter with a foreign envoy since the coup came in July last year, when then-Thai foreign minister Don Pramudwinai said he had met her for more than an hour.

Her son Kim told AFP in February that she was in "strong spirits" after receiving a letter from her -- their first communication since she was detained in the coup.

There had been no communication since, he said Wednesday, adding that he had been given no information about her location or condition.

"As always I appeal to the military junta to free maymay and all other political prisoners and to respect the overwhelming vote of the people for democracy and freedom," he said.
Yemen's Houthi militants are believed to have sunk a second ship, the Tutor, in the Red Sea, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said on Tuesday.

The Greek-owned Tutor coal carrier was struck by missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat last Wednesday and had been taking on water, according to previous reports from UKMTO, the Houthis and other sources.

"Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the (Tutor's) last reported location," UKMTO, a capability of the Royal Navy, said in a security update.

The Tutor's manager could not immediately be reached for comment.

One crew member, believed to be in the Tutor's engine room at the time of the attacks, remains missing.

The U.K.-owned Rubymar was the first ship sunk by the Houthis. It went down on March 2, about two weeks after being struck by missiles.

The UKMTO's report of the suspected Tutor sinking comes a week after the Houthis seriously damaged that Liberia-flagged ship, as well as the Palau-flagged Verbena, which was loaded with wood construction material.

Sailors from the Verbena abandoned ship when they were unable to contain a fire sparked by the attacks. The Verbena is now drifting in the Gulf of Aden and vulnerable to sinking or further assaults.

U.S. and British forces on Monday conducted airstrikes targeting Yemen's Hodeidah International Airport and Kamaran Island near the port of Salif off the Red Sea in what appeared to be retaliation for last week's ship attacks.

The Iran-aligned Houthis have been targeting commercial ships in the Red Sea region since November, in what they say are attacks in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

The Houthi drone and missile assaults have forced shipping firms to divert vessels from the Suez Canal to the longer route around Africa, disrupting global trade by delaying deliveries and sending costs higher.

In November, the Houthis seized another vessel, the Galaxy Leader cargo ship. On Tuesday its manager renewed calls for the Houthi to release the ships 25 crew, who have been held for seven months.

The militants used helicopters to attack the Bahamas-flagged ship on Nov. 19. They captured the Bulgarian ship master and chief officer, along with 17 Filipinos and other sailors from Ukraine, Mexico and Romania, STAMCO Ship Management said in a statement.

"There is nothing to be gained by the Houthis in keeping the 25 crew members," said STAMCO, which requested that they be released to their families without further delay.
The Nigerian air force said Tuesday it will acquire 50 new aircraft to strengthen its capabilities against armed gangs and terrorists in northwest Nigeria.

Nigerian Chief of Air Staff Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar made the announcement at the opening of new military facilities, including two aircraft hangars in northwest Katsina state.

Abubakar said the aircraft would include 12 AH-1 attack helicopters, 24 M-346 combat planes, 12 AW109 multipurpose helicopters and a pair of Casa 295 transport aircraft. He did not disclose the cost, nor did he say who would provide the aircraft.

He said Nigeria is expected to receive them by next year.

The aircraft will be used to bolster offensives against jihadist groups and armed gangs that have terrorized northwest and central states in recent years, Abubakar said.

But security analyst Mike Ejiofor says acquiring 50 aircraft is overambitious and possibly misdirected.

"I know it will bolster the fight against terrorism, but I believe that we should concentrate more on land than air. We're not at war, Ejiofor said.

The money, he said, should have been channeled to training and provision of welfare for the ground troops. I think we would've achieved more results."

Abubakars announcement came as Kaduna state authorities announced Tuesday a partnership with the military to set up three new operational fronts within the state.

Kaduna state Governor Uba Sani said, "We concluded with the military to set up forward-operating bases in southern Kaduna, and another one in the Giwa and Birnin-Gwari axis. All the arrangements are being concluded."

The Nigerian air force came under heavy criticism in December after more than 80 people were killed and dozens wounded during an airstrike in Kaduna state that was intended to target gangs.

Nigerian authorities have promised to operate with more precision to avoid future accidents.

Nigerian Chief of Defense Staff General Christopher Musa told journalists in Abuja, "The armed forces of Nigeria are highly professional. We're here to protect innocent citizens, not to harm them. Whatever it was that happened there was a mistake, but we're addressing such issues."

Ejiofor said authorities should focus more on boosting the ability of the air force to gather and process accurate information about the activities of armed groups.

"These strikes are intelligence-driven, so we must get the intelligence before they're guided to the areas, he said. I think what we should've done is to deploy more drones that will be sending this data."
North Korea and Russia have signed a treaty containing a mutual defense clause, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un announced Wednesday, during a rare Putin visit to Pyongyang.

Following a day of highly publicized events, Putin and Kim signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, formally upgrading relations that have expanded since Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The text of the agreement has not been released. But following the signing, Putin said the deal contains a clause that provides for the provision of mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties.

The move amounts to a significant change of Russian policy toward North Korea, potentially restoring a mutual defense treaty that had been abolished following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Following the signing ceremony, Kim said the relationship has been elevated to the level of an "alliance," although Putin did not use that phrase in his public comments.

According to a Kremlin readout, Putin noted that Russia does not rule out the possibility that its cooperation with the DPRK in defense and technology will be developed further, using an acronym for North Koreas official name.

The development is sure to rattle Western leaders, who have condemned Russian-North Korean cooperation as a violation of international law. U.S. officials accuse North Korea of supplying Russia with thousands of containers of munitions, including ballistic missiles, for use on the Ukraine battlefield.

The treaty signing surprised many observers, who had predicted that any formalization of the relationship would fall short of a formal alliance.

Kim Jong Un has been able to extract more concessions than we thought he would be able to from his support for Russias invasion of Ukraine, said Ramon Pacheco Pardo, a Korea specialist and professor of international relations at King's College London.

The move appears to be an attempt to reanimate Soviet-era relations between Moscow and Pyongyang, although not all analysts are convinced that ties have reached that level.

Clearly, its an important development, but I think we will need to see this relationship continue on a strong footing for a number of years before we can say there has been a definite change in the relationship, said Pacheco Pardo.

Close, but how close?

In recent years, Russia and North Korea have projected a unified stance as each countrys relations with the West deteriorated. But the partnership has faced significant strains.

As recently as 2017, Russia supported United Nations Security Council resolutions in response to North Korea's illicit nuclear weapons program. Russia now opposes those sanctions, with Putin on Wednesday calling them part of a confrontational U.S. policy.

Treaty relations between Moscow and Pyongyang also have been turbulent.

In 1961, North Korea and the Soviet Union signed a friendship and mutual assistance treaty that included a provision for military intervention in emergencies. That deal was abolished after the Soviet Union's collapse.

The two countries signed a new treaty in 2000, but it focused on economic rather than military matters. Russian officials say the latest document will replace that pact.

Kim Gunn, a South Korean lawmaker who earlier this year stepped down as South Koreas top nuclear envoy, condemned the signing of the mutual defense clause, which he said is only harmful to the peace and stability of the Korean Peninsula.

But in Kims estimation, the move is aimed at establishing the appearance of an alliance rather than the real thing. Don't be dismayed by the facade of the visit, because that's exactly what they intend to achieve, he told VOA.

Details matter

Analysts will closely parse the language of any new treaty signed by Putin and Kim  if the agreement text is released.

In addition to North Korea, Russia also shares comprehensive strategic partnerships  its highest form of interstate relations  with countries that include Vietnam, Mongolia and some Central Asian nations. However, not all those relationships are described as alliances.

Language matters for these things, in terms of what specific commitments and obligations are made, said Mason Richey, associate professor at South Korea's Hankuk University of Foreign Studies. Mutual assistance in case of attack would qualify as an alliance.

But Richey said he has serious questions about the ostensible alliance between Russia and North Korea, especially as post-Cold War Russia has a spotty record in supporting its strategic partners.

North Korea would do well to examine the experience of Armenia in its last war with Azerbaijan. Russia was not very helpful to its supposed ally, Richey said.

Asked by VOA what he thinks of the North Korean-Russian treaty development, former Russian diplomat Georgy Toloraya said the agreement means what it says  nuclear umbrellas.

But, he added, Security guarantees do not equal alliance.

Late arrival

The treaty signing Wednesday capped a busy day for Putin, who arrived at the Pyongyang airport around 3 a.m.  several hours later than Russian officials had earlier anticipated.

Despite the late hour, Kim greeted Putin with a hug while standing on a red carpet rolled out next to Putins plane.

The Russian leader later received a grandiose welcoming ceremony in Pyongyangs central Kim Il Sung Square, where buildings were draped in massive Russian and North Korean flags and portraits of the two leaders.

North Korean residents waved bright flower bouquets as Putin and Kim observed an honor guard before departing for negotiations.

At the outset of the talks, Putin thanked North Korea for its consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in Ukraine, reported Russias Interfax news agency.

Kim expressed his full support and solidarity for what he called Russias special military operation in Ukraine, and he vowed to unconditionally support Russias policies, according to Russian media.

Late Wednesday, Putin presented Kim with a luxury, Russian-built Aurus limousine  the second such vehicle that Putin has given to Kim in recent months.

According to Russian television, Putin got behind the wheel, taking Kim for a ride around the grounds of the Kumsusan Palace  a national landmark that contains the embalmed bodies of Kims father and grandfather.

Putin was expected to depart late Wednesday for Hanoi, the second stop on his foreign tour.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un upgraded their countries relationship as they met Wednesday in Pyongyang. Both men signed a treaty they say contains a mutual defense clause. The developments are being criticized by the U.S. and its allies, who say the relationship is a threat to global peace. More from VOAs Bill Gallo in Seoul, South Korea. Contributor: Kim Lewis
An overnight drone attack in central and western Ukraine damaged energy facilities in the country, while firefighters in the Russian town of Azov battled a blaze at an oil depot for a second day.

Ukraines energy ministry said equipment was damaged and police emergency services had been called to help. The attack came after Ukraine announced rolling blackouts throughout the country.

The mayor of Lviv, a city in western Ukraine near the border with Poland, said a drone attack in the village of Malekhiv injured two people, damaged a multi-story residential building and shattered dozens of windows in nearby buildings.

Mayor Andriy Sadovyi, writing on the Telegram messaging app, said a 70-year-old and a 47-year-old were hurt.

Meanwhile, a fire at a Russian oil storage facility in the Rostov region continues to burn for a second day after it was started by a drone attack.

Vasily Golubev, the governor of the Rostov region, posted on Telegram that first responders havent been able to put out the fire because a second storage tank had been depressurized. He said more than 200 firefighters were fighting the fire.

A Ukrainian official told media outlets the attack was a special operation of Ukraines Security Service. Ukraine has targeted energy infrastructure in the past as a way of hurting Russias war effort.

The attack hit two depots with 22 oil reservoirs, the official said. Azov is in the Rostov region in southern Russia, on the Don River about 16 kilometers from the Sea of Azov.

Azovs two oil product terminals handled a total of about 220,000 tons of fuel for export between January and May 2024.



Earlier in Ukraine, Russian attacks on power plants led to rolling blackouts throughout the country.

"All regional power distribution companies will apply hourly outage schedules for industrial and household consumers from 00:00 to 24:00," national power provider Ukrenergo announced Wednesday. Previously, officials had tried to limit outages to afternoon hours.

In Donetsk, a man and woman were killed by Ukrainian shelling of the city Wednesday morning, according to the citys Russian-appointed mayor, Alexei Kulemzin. Two other people, including a child, are in serious condition, he said.

The latest hostilities come as Russia and North Korea announced a pledge Wednesday to aid each other if either country was attacked. An adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday on X that the military partnership is a brazen nullification of international restrictions placed on North Korea.

Misconduct allegations

Ukraines deputy prosecutor general told The Associated Press on Wednesday that the country has created a registry to track cases of sexual violence allegedly committed by Russian troops.

Viktoriia Litvinova said the country has logged 303 cases of alleged sexual violence since Russias invasion in February 2022. Of the 303 reports, 191 involved female victims and 112 involved male victims.

Government officials told AP that tracking sexual violence could allow victims to make claims for financial compensation in the future.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Ukrainian prosecutors accused Russian troops of beheading a Ukrainian service member in the Donetsk Region.

"While conducting aerial reconnaissance at one of the combat positions in the Donetsk region, the Ukrainian military discovered a damaged armored vehicle of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. It contained the severed head of a Ukrainian defender," the office of Ukraine's Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin posted on social media.

Kostins office included a photo that reportedly showed the armored military vehicle with a blurred section where the severed head was located.

Prosecutors in Donestk also reported Tuesday that a Ukrainian man was sentenced to 15 years in prison for providing information about Ukrainian troops to Russian forces.

The man, a resident of Kostyantynivka near the front line, used the Telegram messenger service last May to inform Russia about Ukrainian troop and artillery movements, according to prosecutors.

Last year, the United Nations said Ukraine had launched more than 6,600 criminal cases against people for helping Russia since the war began.

Material from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse was used in this report.
Every morning, Zakira prepares Afghan dumplings known as mantu and waits for her sons Arsalan, 12, and Alyan, 10, to return from school when they take the mantu to the nearby streets to sell.

"As refugees in Pakistan, this is how we earn a living," said 38-year-old Zakira, who goes by her first name, adding that her husband, a laborer, "can't often find a job."

Zakira, a teacher, told VOA she can't find a job in Pakistan because of her refugee status, and that is why her children work.

"It is difficult to see them selling food on the street instead of playing like other kids," she said. "But how will we pay the bills if they don't work?"

Zakira and her husband hold Afghan citizen cards issued in 2017 by Pakistan to Afghan refugees. More than 800,000 of the 3.1 million Afghan refugees have the cards.

"There are no benefits in having these cards, as no one would give me a job with it," Zakira said.

Another 1.35 million are registered as Afghan refugees, while more than 800,000 Afghans in Pakistan are undocumented.

Around 600,000 new arrivals were in the country before the Pakistani government started deporting undocumented Afghan refugees.

Deportations started last year

Pakistan began deporting undocumented Afghan refugees last September. According to the United Nations, about 575,000 refugees were returned, of whom 89% were undocumented.

Many of the documented refugees are also afraid, as local media reported in March that the government of Pakistan was preparing for the repatriation of Afghan citizen cardholders.

Loqman Jalal, 27, who was born in Pakistan and holds a citizen card, told VOA that Afghan refugees, whether documented or undocumented, fear deportation.

"There is fear that in the second phase, Pakistan will deport refugees holding ACC and then PoR [proof of registration] holders," said Jalal, a father of three who is concerned about their future.

In April, Pakistan extended the proof of registration cards for Afghan refugees to June 30.

The U.N., however, said an extension of three months would not lessen the uncertainty the Afghan refugees are facing in Pakistan.

Jalal said that the uncertainty makes it difficult for Afghan refugees in Pakistan "to live a normal life."

"Everything changed for us after the regime change [Taliban's takeover] in Afghanistan. We face many problems including the possibility of being deported," he said.

In May, the U.N. said it assisted the return of 18,700 refugees from Pakistan in the first quarter of 2024, a 14-fold increase from the same period in 2023.

"Fear of arrest/deportation, abuse by police or state authorities related to the proof of registration cards extension in Pakistan, no added protection value of the PoR card, and night raids" were some of the reasons, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Sophie Jambazishvili, a senior protection officer for UNHCR in Kabul, told VOA that individuals with PoR cards, UNHRC asylum-seeker certificate holders and ACC holders were included among the refugees forcibly deported to Afghanistan.

"We have seen quite a variety of individuals with different legal backgrounds," Jambazishvili said about those deported by Pakistani authorities.

She said that Pakistan has not started the second phase of deportations, which will include the ACC holders.

"I have to say that we thought that would start. Thankfully, it has not yet fully been implemented," she said.

'Nothing left in Afghanistan'

Many refugees, including Zakira, fear that Pakistan will start deporting registered refugees.

She said that after living for decades in Pakistan, they have "nothing left in Afghanistan."

"I am sad for my children. If deported, I don't know what would happen to them."

Zheela Noori contributed to this report, which originated in VOA's Afghan Service.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Azerbaijan ranks among the countries most affected by mine problem, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev told reporters on the sidelines of the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku today, Trend reports.

Not just for military reasons, but also after the war, the Armenian side deliberately deployed mines everywhere to impede Azerbaijan's reconstruction and restoration efforts, therefore inflicting the greatest amount of human suffering. This is the targeted mine terror policy of Armenia. Looking at Armenia's policy, we see that mining was carried out not only along the former line of contact but also in areas that had no military significance. The goal of this is to kill people and implement a policy of mine terrorism.

When we analyze the facts related to recent mine explosions that have harmed people, we again see that most of the mines explode not on the former line of contact but in areas far from it. I want to emphasize once more that this is Armenia's policy of deliberately implementing mine terrorism. The mine maps provided by Armenia were ineffective, did not reflect the actual conditions on the ground, and were not provided in full. The responsibility for mine terrorism lies directly with Armenia," Hajiyev said.

To note, after the 2020 second Karabakh war, more than 360 people have become landmine victims in Azerbaijan's liberated areas, resulting in 68 fatalities and over 290 injuries as of May 2024.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un formalize their anti-Western alliance. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterates that Hamas is to blame for the lack of progress in ceasefire talks. A look at Israels northern border and the increasing tension with Hezbollah. Ukraine sees progress now that it can use Western-supplied weapons on Russian territory, but the fighting in Kharkiv is getting worse. Plus, there are problems with Irans partnership with Russia and a look at the heat wave.
As leaders of 78 countries gathered in Switzerland for a Summit on Peace in Ukraine and preconditioning any peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv on Ukraine's territorial integrity, uninvited, Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke at the Kremlin presenting a different vision.

Putin demanded Ukraines surrender of its Russia-occupied regions and its NATO membership aspirations, thus accepting Moscows dominion. These are Russias conditions for peace, Putin said, in a speech loaded with disinformation and propaganda narratives he used over the years to justify the Russian aggression against Ukraine.

Polygraph.info reviewed eight of Putins claims, finding them false and misleading.

Putin: Russia did not start the war. It was the Kiev regime that initiated hostilities, following the declaration of independence by residents of certain parts of Ukraine in accordance with international law, and continues to do so.

Why that is false: Russia started the war against Ukraine in February 2014 with a covert invasion and consequent annexation of Crimea. In March 2014, armed Russian operatives infiltrated Ukraine's Donbas, instigating hostilities. By August 2014, Russia had deployed regular army units to support its special combat troops. On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Putin: A large group of Ukrainian armed forces was preparing to launch a new offensive on Lugansk and Donetsk, of course, with ethnic cleansing and huge casualties, hundreds of thousands of refugees. We were obliged to prevent this catastrophe, to protect people, we could not make any other decision.

Why that is false: None of international observers and investigative groups reported any evidence of Ukrainian government forces ever carrying out ethnic cleansing or mass atrocities targeting ethnic minorities. The opposite is true for Russia, which stands accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity, genocide.

Putins claim of waging war to protect people and prevent huge casualties and refugee catastrophe is equally false. The United Nations reported that Russias war against Ukraine triggered one of the fastest-growing humanitarian and displacement emergencies in recent history. More than 3.5 million Ukrainians fled from the Russian occupation within the Kyiv-controlled cities and towns in Ukraine. More than 6.5 million Ukrainians sought refuge in foreign countries.

Russian air and ground strikes erased entire cities in eastern Ukraine, including Popasna, Mariupol, Avdiivka and many others.

Millions in Ukraine face death and injury due to indiscriminate attacks and unexploded ordinance [sic], and multi-sectoral needs brought on by destruction of housing, displacement, disrupted or overstretched public services, the U.N. reported.

After 28 months of war, the scale of humanitarian needs is vast. More than 32,000 civilian casualties, including 11,000 deaths, have been verified  but the real number is likely much higher, the U.N. said.

Putin: As you know, in February and March 2022 our troops approached Kiev.  but there was no political decision to storm the city with three million people...

Why that is false: The Russian forces marched directly to Ukraines capital, Kyiv, reaching its outskirts in the first day of military invasion. Moscow reportedly expected to capture Kyiv within three days and secure control over Ukraine by May 9, which Russia celebrates as a World War II victory day. The battle for Kyiv continued from February 25 to April 2, 2022. Despite the heavy concentration of air and ground power, the Russian military faced strong resistance and suffered significant losses. By late March and early April, Ukraine cleared the outskirts of Kyiv from the Russians, whose retreat revealed some of the most dramatic scenes of the war, including the massacre of civilians in the town of Bucha.

Putin: They [NATO] effectively forgot about the promises made to the Soviet Union and later Russia in the late 1980s and early 1990s that the block would not accept new members.

Why that is false: Since the day of its creation, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization had an Open Door Policy, meaning that any state can join at will as long as it fulfills the membership requirements. NATO never changed that policy.

Neither the U.S. nor Europe have ever signed any treaty with Russia containing different provisions for NATO membership.

Former Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev confirmed in 2014 that the West never promised the Soviet Union that NATO would not expand to the East.

In 1997, then-U.S. President Bill Clinton declined to enter into a "gentlemens agreement" with Boris Yeltsin, then-Russian president, stating that no former Soviet republics would enter NATO .

Putin: The anti-Russia propaganda campaign, involving senior European politicians, is accompanied by speculation that Russia intends to attack Europe.  We all understand that these claims are baseless and serve only to justify an arms race.

Why that is misleading: What Putin calls an anti-Russian propaganda campaign is a response to Russias systematic saber rattling, including threats of nuclear strikes and promises to turn Western capitals into a radioactive dust.

In the two years since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Putin, his high-ranking officials, the Kremlins ideologists, top lawmakers and state media propagandists threatened directly or indirectly at least 114 nuclear strikes on Western countries. Polygraph.info drew the estimate from examining the Russian government and public sources from February 24, 2022, to March 13, 2024, and creating a database of Russias nuclear threats.

Putin: [The West] masterminded, organized and financed an armed coup [in 2014], clearly taking advantage of the difficulties and political infighting in Ukraine.

Why that is false: There was no coup in Ukraine in 2014. The military played almost no role in the events, neither did it oust Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian president. Yanukovych abandoned his office and fled to Russia when facing mass protests over his sabotaging of Ukraines EU association agreement. Despite repeatedly propagating that the U.S. orchestrated the Maidan Revolution, Russia presented no credible evidence that the protesters were agents of the U.S. or any other foreign government.

Putin:  Crimea, which, as you may know, was transferred from the RSFSR to Ukraine in 1954 with the violation of all norms of the law and procedures, even those in effect in the Soviet Union at that time.

Why that is misleading: In 1954, Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union  the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic or Ukrainian SSR. What is now Russia was then called the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic or RSFSR. Contrary to Putins claim, both republics consented to the transfer of the Crimean Peninsula (then Oblast) from Russia to Ukraine. The move was lawful and in full accordance to the RSFSR's Constitution, argues Mark Kramer, the head of the Harvard Universitys Davis School for Russian and Eurasian Studies. In 1991, when the Soviet Union collapsed, Ukrainian citizens, including Crimea residents, overwhelmingly voted for independence.

In 2008, Putin told the German broadcaster ARD that Crimea is Ukraine's "absolutely not disputed territory" and any suggestions of Russia planning to invade and annex Crimea were "provocative."
Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to Vietnam will put the Southeast Asian country in a difficult position and could even be seen as risky for Hanoi, according to three international relations experts who spoke on Monday to VOA. They expected no breakthrough from the visit.

Putin arrived in Vietnam early Thursday, local time, after his Tuesday-Wednesday trip to North Korea. His plane landed at Hanois international airport, and he was met by Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, Reuters reported.

Risks for Hanoi

Hosting Putin in a combined trip that brings him to North Korea is bad optics for Hanoi and will bring some risks. This may make Vietnam less trustful in the eyes of the West, Japan and South Korea. But on the other hand, Hanoi would gain more trust in the eyes of Russia, said Alexander Vuving, a professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Honolulu.

According to Vuving, the link between Putin's visits to North Korea and Vietnam lies mostly in logistics: It makes more sense for Putin's schedule to go to these countries in one trip rather than in two separate trips.

But it also highlights the fact that Vietnam, like North Korea, is a close friend of Russia, he said.

Nguyen Ngoc Truong, former president of the Center for Strategic Studies and International Development, a government-affiliated think tank in Hanoi, said Vietnam had sent a message telling Russia they did not want Putin to combine the North Korea and Vietnam stops in one trip "because it could cause international misunderstandings."

But the combined trip will still take place because "in terms of foreign affairs, Vietnam must consider all aspects," Truong said.

'Traditional and dearest friend

Truong pointed out that the Vietnamese leadership is grateful for the assistance Vietnam received in past wars from the former Soviet Union. Therefore, they consider Russia a "traditional and dearest friend."

Vietnamese people, especially those who understand geopolitics, cannot turn their backs on their friends because of immediate events. Russians stood shoulder to shoulder with Vietnam through the darkest and happiest moments, including assisting with weapons, Truong said.

Hoang Viet, a Ho Chi Minh City Law University lecturer and international dispute expert, stressed that Vietnam "does not want to lose its long-standing relationship" with Russia, a major power holding a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Viet noted that Russia has never had any disputes or conflicts with Vietnam.

"Given the current harsh Western sanctions, Putin's visit puts Vietnam in a difficult position. But Vietnam still has to maintain its relations because with the Vietnamese way of thinking, they must honor traditional friendship," Viet observed.

Relationship with U.S.

Just nine months ago, Vietnam welcomed U.S. President Joe Biden, and on that occasion, Hanoi and Washington upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, on par with the relationship that Vietnam had for many years with Russia, China and a few other countries.

Viet noted that while the U.S. views Vietnam as an important player in its Indo-Pacific strategy, Vietnam still largely relies on Russian weapons for its defense strength. Therefore, Vietnam must balance its relations with Russia and the U.S.

"No country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities," a spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi told Reuters on Monday when asked about the impact of the visit on ties with the United States.

"If he is able to travel freely, it could normalize Russia's blatant violations of international law," the spokesperson added, referring to the invasion of Ukraine that Putin launched in February 2022.

The Hague-based International Criminal Court in March 2023 issued an arrest warrant for the Russian president over alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Vietnam, Russia and the U.S. are not members of the ICC.

No breakthrough expected

Viet expected that during the visit, Russia and Vietnam would enter into deals on weapons and oil and gas, which he called "traditional deals," while Hanoi tries "not to violate Western sanctions."

Truong expected there would be no special outcomes, saying "It will be just a friendly visit. There will probably not be any breakthroughs between the two countries. Military and defense cooperation in the current situation is unlikely to develop at all."

Vuving said he thought the top issues likely to be discussed by Vietnam and Russia will be the ways to boost bilateral trade in the face of Western sanctions, cooperation in the energy sector, including oil, gas, solar and nuclear energy, and Vietnam's purchase of weapons from Russia.

Issues like payments and direct flights will likely be high on the agenda, as they are critical for restoring bilateral trade, Vuving said.

He assessed that Russia will benefit more from the visit.

Noting that Vietnam will be the farthest destination for Putin since his invasion of Ukraine, Vuving commented that the visit will show that after the invasion, many friends remain loyal to Moscow. These friends are not only in Russia's neighborhood, and some are friends to Russia not because they are enemies of the West, he said.

But Vietnam also benefits from the visit as it helps to gain more trust from Russia and helps to keep Russia on Vietnam's side in the South China Sea disputes with China, he said.

Neutral stance toward war

Vuving added that Vietnam has been trying to maintain a largely neutral stance toward the war in Ukraine. However, the hosting of Putin will carry big risks to this stance.

Viet said despite trying to balance its heart for both Ukraine and Russia, two former Soviet republics that provided colossal help to Vietnam, Hanoi still leans more to one side.

Russia's strength is different; Russia is also a great power. In geopolitics, interests are important. Vietnam finds more benefits in Russia than in Ukraine. Since the beginning of the war, the Vietnamese government still seems more inclined to maintain relations with Russia than with Ukraine, Viet said.

Truong commented, "Ukrainians may not like this trip, but they are also a people who have gone through many tough and tragic events in their history, and they understand everything very well. As a country living next to a giant neighbor [like Vietnam], they have similar views and similar feelings."
The number of internally displaced people in Haiti has risen 60% since March, when armed gangs took control of the capital, the United Nations migration agency reported Tuesday.

"The figures we see today are a direct consequence of years of spiraling violence  that reached a new high in February  and its catastrophic humanitarian impact," said Philippe Branchat, head of the International Organization for Migration in Haiti. "The unending crisis in Haiti is pushing more and more people to flee their homes and leave everything behind. This is not something they do lightly. What's more, for many of them, this is not the first time."

The IOM reported 578,074 internally displaced people across Haiti, a 60% increase from 362,551 in early March. Haiti is a nation of 11.9 million people.

A surge in gang violence began at the end of February as the gangs sought to overthrow the government of Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

Henry was in Kenya at the time, signing an agreement in which Kenya would send security forces to help Haiti's national police fight the gangs.

Gangs launched coordinated attacks on the capital, Port-au-Prince. The armed gangs attacked the national palace, hospitals, police stations and individual neighborhoods. Since then, people have been fleeing their homes to neighboring provinces.

Gangs control about 80% of the capital.

In Port-au-Prince, two-thirds of IDPs live in spontaneous sites with very limited access to basic services, the report said. It added that the country currently has 96 active displacement sites that house 61,000 IDPs.

In April, Henry resigned, and a transitional council took power in Haiti.

A planned deployment of security forces from Kenya has been delayed multiple times.

Some information for this report came from Agence France-Presse, The Associated Press and Reuters.
Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in North Korea for his first visit in 24 years and pledged strong support. We talk to Naoko Aoki, an associate political scientist at the RAND Corporation. June 19th is the U.S. holiday known as Juneteenth, which marks the day in 1865 when slavery ended in the former Confederate states of the American Civil War. U.S. lawmakers grilled Boeing's chief executive Tuesday about the company's plans to fix its manufacturing problems. Nvidia passes Microsoft to become the worlds most valuable company.
Senior Australian ministers are in Papua New Guinea to discuss security and development amid Chinas growing ambitions in the region.

The ministerial forum comes at a critical time with the Canberra government hoping to maintain its position as a dominant trade and security partner in the Pacific.

Papua New Guinea is boosting trade ties with China and has had negotiations with Beijing over policing cooperation, which has caused alarm in Canberra and Washington, which struck a defense accord with Papua New Guinea last year.

Australia's high-level delegation to Papua New Guinea includes Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, Defense Minister Richard Marles, and ministers for cyber security, agriculture and fisheries, trade and international development.

They will join their counterparts for talks Wednesday on economic and security cooperation.

Wong told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. that Canberra will pursue its own interests, while Beijing will do the same.

We do not expect China to stop being China. China will continue to assert its interests," she said. "How we deal with that is to assert ours and we do so both in the bilateral relationship but also in the way we engage in the region and the way we engage with other powers.

Meg Keen, director of the Pacific Islands Program at the Lowy Institute, a Sydney-based research organization, told VOA that both Canberra and Washington want to limit Beijings influence in Papua New Guinea.

China has already sent police to neighboring Solomon Islands and Kiribati, insisting it has a plan to help Pacific Island countries maintain social order.

Australia has, however, said that Beijing should have no role in policing the Pacific Islands, and that the Canberra government will train more local security forces to fill gaps.

Keen said China has strategic ambitions in the Pacific region.

China is in a competition with Taiwan for recognition and since 2019 it has been able to win the support away from Taiwan of three countries in the region. That is significant. Kiribati is one of those," Keen said. "So, while these are small countries they have enormous ocean territories. They sit in a very strategic place between the United States, Australia and Asia.

This week, the Chinese Premier Li Qiang held talks with senior government officials in Australia.

It was a further sign that bilateral relations, which have been strained over various geopolitical and trade disputes, are improving.

However, differences between the two sides remain over human rights, the South China Sea, allegations of cyber espionage and, increasingly, over Beijings ambitions in the Pacific, a region Australia has traditionally considered to be its sphere of influence.
Afghanistans Taliban have labeled the latest United Nations report on alleged human rights violations as an attempt to tarnish perceptions in the lead-up to this months international meeting to discuss the crisis-ridden country.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief Taliban spokesman, emphasized Wednesday the need for constructive and positive engagement between their government and the international community.

His response came a day after Richard Bennett, the U.N. special rapporteur on the human rights situation in Afghanistan, alleged that the Talibans pattern of systematic violations of womens and girls fundamental rights has intensified.

Bennett presented his hard-hitting report on Tuesday to a meeting of the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, demanding that those responsible for Afghan human rights abuses be held to account.

Some members of the United Nations, particularly the report by Richard Bennett, are attempting to tarnish perceptions ahead of the upcoming Doha meeting, Mujahid stated. Unfortunately, certain individuals within the United Nations are constantly trying to present a distorted image of Afghanistan and overshadow significant progress with a few limited issues, he added.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called a two-day conference of international envoys on Afghanistan in Qatars capital, Doha, on June 30.

The Taliban will attend for the first time in what will be the third meeting hosted by the Gulf state since Guterres initiated the process over a year ago. The U.N.-led dialogue is aimed at establishing a coherent and unified global approach to engagement with the de facto Afghan government, which has yet to be formally recognized by the world.

Bennett said Tuesday it is essential that Afghan civil society, including women human rights defenders, meaningfully participate in the third Doha meeting and that womens and girls rights be addressed both directly and within thematic discussions.

"It is hoped that reality will be understood, and a constructive stance will be adopted, Mujahid said Wednesday.

Human rights groups have criticized the U.N. for inviting the Taliban to the Doha huddle rather than holding them accountable for crimes against Afghan women and girls. They also have expressed concerns that, unlike the previous two Doha meetings, Afghan civil society and human rights activists would be kept from the upcoming session under pressure from the Taliban.

On Tuesday, Farhan Haq, the U.N. deputy spokesperson, defended the decision to invite the Taliban to the third Doha conference. He would not say, however, whether Afghan civil society representatives will have a session with representatives of the de facto government.

At this stage, the arrangements for the conference are still ongoing," Haq told a news conference in New York.

This is a key concern, and we want to make sure that the rightful role of women in society is respected in Afghanistan, as it needs to be everywhere in the world, he said when asked whether the U.N. would support Bennetts call for the Talibans gender apartheid to be codified as a crime against humanity.

Well, I just want to underscore that we treat them as the de facto authorities on the ground. They are not treated as the recognized government of Afghanistan, Haq explained when asked whether the U.N. would follow Bennett's advice not to treat the Taliban as a legitimate government or allow them to dictate the terms of the U.N.-hosted meetings.

Guterres did not invite the Taliban to the first Doha meeting in May 2023, and the de facto Afghan rulers refused to join the second in February unless their delegates could be accepted as the sole representatives of Afghanistan.

The Talibans foreign ministry announced on Sunday that it has decided to send its delegation to the third Doha meeting after two months of discussions with the U.N. regarding the agenda and participation list. If there are any changes to the agenda and participation, it would naturally affect our decision, which we will share with all sides at that time, it stated.

The Taliban returned to power in Kabul almost three years ago, imposing sweeping retractions on Afghan womens rights and freedom of movement in line with their harsh interpretation of Islam.

Girls aged 12 and older are banned from attending secondary school, and women are prohibited from working in public and private sectors, including the U.N., except for Afghan health care and a few other departments. Females are not allowed to travel long distances by road or air unless accompanied by a male relative, and they are banned from visiting public places such as parks, gyms and bathhouses.

The Taliban dismiss international criticism of their governance and calls for reversing curbs on women as an interference in the internal affairs of Afghanistan.
Tropical Storm Alberto, the first named storm of 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, has formed over the western Gulf of Mexico, the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC), said on Wednesday, bringing flooding across the southern coast of the United States.

The storm was located about 300 kilometers (186.4 miles) east of Tampico, Mexico, packing maximum sustained winds of 65 kilometers per hour (40.3 miles per hour), the forecaster said. Alberto is likely to dissipate over Mexico as early as Thursday night.

The NHC said the storm was very large and that rainfall, coastal flooding and strong winds could occur far from the center along north-eastern Mexico and the south Texas coast.

Heavy rains also will affect large regions of Central America, the NHC warned, a region that is still facing strong rains that left some 11 people dead in El Salvador over the weekend because of landslides and road accidents.

"Life-threatening flooding and mudslides are likely in and near higher terrain across the Mexican states of Coahuila, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas," the NHC said, including the eastern city of Ciudad Victoria and Monterrey, Mexico's third-biggest city in Nuevo Leon state.

Nuevo Leon State Governor Samuel Garcia said on the social media platform X that people should avoid leaving the house or crossing waterways while it is raining and to keep emergency kits on hand. Workers were ready to address the possible impact of strong winds and rain on the electrical grid, water supplies, and sewage, he said.

Across the Gulf on Mexico's Yucatan peninsula, local media reported strong winds and torrential rains. Some authorities, however, said the storm could help fill the country's dams, depleted by an extended drought.

The NHC predicted "moderate coastal flooding" along much of the Texan coast through Thursday as southern areas experience tropical storm conditions.

Forecasters have warned that this year's Atlantic hurricane season will likely be highly active because of impacts from the La Nina weather pattern and warmer ocean water.
Wednesday marks the fourth annual observance in the United States of Juneteenth, a federal holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Black people at the end of the Civil War.

President Joe Biden signed legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday on June 17, 2021. It went into effect immediately.

The holiday's name stems from June 19, 1865, when U.S. Army Major General Gordon Granger marched into Galveston, Texas, and informed an estimated 250,000 enslaved people that they were free after four years of war between the victorious Union army of the U.S. North and the Southern Confederate states.

Granger's order enforced the Emancipation Proclamation signed on January 1, 1863, by then-President Abraham Lincoln that freed more than 3 million enslaved Black people throughout the Confederacy but did not truly take effect until the end of the war, after the Confederacy surrendered.

Black communities commemorated the date as the actual end of slavery in private celebrations throughout the following century. The first official observance of Juneteenth came in 1980, when Texas declared it a state holiday. Other communities in the U.S. slowly began to adopt the annual observance as a public holiday, eventually leading to all 50 states and the District of Columbia now recognizing the day in some form.

"Juneteenth, and by extension, Black History Month, are not just one day or one-month events," said Portia Hopkins, a historian at Rice University. "We would love to see Juneteenth celebrations, including buying from Black businesses, investing in Black real estate, thinking about ways that we can empower and embolden the Black community."

The drive to make Juneteenth a federal holiday gained momentum during the Black Lives Matter movement against racism and police brutality, especially after the murder of African American George Floyd by a white Minneapolis police officer in 2020.

"I would really love to see Juneteenth curriculum be added to public education," Hopkins said. "In Texas, and in many states across the nation, they have what's called a Celebrate Freedom Week, where they look at foundational documents like the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. Why not add General Order No. 3 to that and really allow the students to think about what freedom means in different contexts and to different people in this great nation of ours?"

General Order No. 3 is the 1865 decree that ended slavery in Texas.

Much of the success in galvanizing support for a national holiday is credited to Opal Lee, a retired Black teacher and activist known as "the grandmother of Juneteenth." As a child, she witnessed a group of 500 white supremacists vandalize and burn her family's home to the ground.

In 2016, at the age 89, she began a walking campaign, traveling hundreds of kilometers from her hometown of Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., to press for a Juneteenth federal holiday. Her efforts became a reality in 2021, when President Biden signed legislation passed by Congress marking Juneteenth as the 11th nationally recognized holiday.

In a proclamation recognizing this year's Juneteenth as "a day of observance," Biden said Juneteenth "not only marks the end of America's original sin of slavery but also the beginning of the work at the heart and soul of our Nation: making the promise of America real for every American."
The United Nations human rights office says Israeli airstrikes on Gaza may have repeatedly violated fundamental principles of the laws of war.

A report released Wednesday examined six airstrikes conducted by the Israel Defense Forces between October and December 2023 during the opening weeks of the war in Gaza. More than 200 people were confirmed by the human rights office to have been killed in the airstrikes, whose targets included residential buildings, a school, a market and refugee camps.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said it appeared Israel made no attempt to effectively distinguish between Palestinian civilians and Hamas fighters in its bombing campaign of Gaza.

Civilian lives and infrastructure are protected under international human rights law, Turk said. This law lays out the very clear obligations of parties to armed conflicts that make protection of civilians a priority.

The report said the six attacks involved the suspected use of heavy bombs, those weighing between 113 kilograms and 907 kilograms.

The report also says continued missile attacks toward Israel by Palestinian armed groups is inconsistent with their obligations under international humanitarian law.

Health authorities in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip say more than 37,266 people have been killed and 85,102 have been injured since the start of the Israeli ground and aerial campaign that began soon after the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel, which killed 1,200 people and took more than 250 hostages, Israeli authorities say.

Israeli operations in Gaza continued Wednesday as tanks advanced into the western part of Rafah, killing eight people, Reuters reported, citing residents and Palestinian medics. Starting after midnight, the tanks moved into five neighborhoods, residents said.

Twelve Palestinians also were killed in an Israeli strike that hit a crowd waiting for aid trucks to arrive in the south Gaza Strip, Reuters reported, citing medical sources. The Israeli military is looking into the report, according to Reuters.

Up north in Gaza Citys Zeitoun neighborhood, residents reported fighting between Israeli tanks and warplanes and Hamas-led fighters.

In the Gaza City suburb of Sheikh Radwan, four Palestinians, including a child, were killed by an Israeli airstrike on a house, medics said.

The Israeli military said later Wednesday that Palestinian gunmen fired rockets in southern Gaza at the Kerem Shalom crossing, a key transit point for aid into Gaza.

An Israeli commander said Tuesday their army was planning to battle Hamas fighters in the Shaboura and Tel al-Sultan neighborhoods, located in central and western Rafah, respectively.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press and Reuters.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Italy will be present at COP29 in Baku with a high-level delegation, Italian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Luca Di Gianfrancesco told Trend.

"Italy will certainly participate as a protagonist at the upcoming COP 29. Italy will certainly be present throughout the session with a high-level delegation. It is a very important event to advance the agenda on issues of contrast," he said.

The ambassador congratulated Azerbaijan for obtaining recognition for hosting COP 29.

"We are confident it will be a success," he said.

To note, Luca Di Gianfrancesco was appointed ambassador to Baku on May 20. This post was previously held by Claudio Taffuri.

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 Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.
A group of U.S. lawmakers met the Dalai Lama in Indias northern town of Dharamshala Wednesday, amid cheers from Tibetans in exile and an angry reaction from China, which calls the Tibetan spiritual leader a separatist and a splittist.

The visit follows the passage last week of a bill by the U.S. Congress that seeks to encourage dialogue between Beijing and Tibetan leaders in exile, who have been seeking more autonomy for Tibet. Talks with the Dalai Lamas representatives and China stalled in 2010.

"This bill is a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet, Nancy Pelosi, former House Speaker, said to cheers from hundreds of Tibetans whom the lawmakers addressed at a public ceremony after meeting the Dalai Lama at his residence.

U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to soon sign the legislation called "Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act," also referred to as the Resolve Tibet Act.

In Dharamshala, where the Tibetan government in exile is based, the visit of the U.S. lawmakers brought hope. It is a jubilant moment for all Tibetans. We are all overjoyed. The visit is very significant because it comes soon after the passage of the bill which we hope will soon be passed into law, Tenzin Lekshay, spokesperson for the Central Tibetan Administration, told VOA.

Congressman Michael McCaul, who led the seven-member visiting delegation, said the bill reaffirms American support for what he referred to as the Tibetan right to self- determination. He said that their delegation had received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning them not to visit.

Beijing said the U.S. should not sign into law the bill passed by Congress. China will take resolute measures to firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman, Lin Jian said on Tuesday, as the lawmakers arrived in the Indian town.

The Chinese embassy in New Delhi reiterated Beijings concerns. We urge the U.S. side to fully recognize the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai group, honor the commitments the U.S. has made to China on issues related to Xizang, stop sending the wrong signal to the world, it said in a statement Tuesday night. Xizang is Chinas name for Tibet.

In his remarks to Tibetans, McCaul said it is important that China not influence the choice of the Dalai Lamas successor. Beijing has even attempted to insert itself into choosing the successor of the Dalai Lama," he said. We will not let that happen.

The issue is contentious. China says it has the right to approve the spiritual leaders successor while according to Tibetan tradition, the Dalai Lama is reincarnated after his death. The Dalai Lama has said his successor is likely to be found in India but Tibetans in exile fear China will try to designate a person to be the successor, in an effort to bolster control over Tibet.

Meanwhile, Tibetan spokesman Lekshay said China needs to come forward to reinstate a dialogue with exiled Tibetan leaders. It is a time for introspection for China to see what is going wrong, particularly with the Tibet issue which has been a longstanding conflict. China needs to be more positive.

Beijing does not recognize the exiled administration. A formal dialogue process between the Dalai Lama's representatives and the Chinese government ended in 2010 after it failed to produce a concrete outcome.

Pointing out that they are asking for autonomy within China and not independence, Lekshay said the Tibetan administration in exile did not represent a separatist movement.

Tibetans in exile say they fear that their culture, language and identity is under threat due to Chinese assimilation of the region.

The Dalai Lama, who fled to India in 1959, has been instrumental in putting the Tibetan cause in the global spotlight but in recent years some Tibetan activists have expressed concerns that the Tibet cause is not getting appropriate attention in Western capitals.

The Himalayan town of Dharamshala has been the Dalai Lamas home since he fled Tibet over six decades ago following a failed uprising against Chinese rule.
A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers led by Congressman Michael McCaul and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi arrived Tuesday in Dharamshala, India, to visit the Tibetan Parliament in Exile  also known as the Central Tibetan Administration or CTA  and meet with the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

"It is an honor to be standing in your temple of democracy," McCaul said at the Kangra Airport, noting the group would be meeting Wednesday with the Dalai Lama.



"It's very exciting to be here," Pelosi said, emphasizing the delegation's focus is to advocate for the Resolve Tibet Act and visit the Dalai Lama.

Crowds of Tibetans gathered at the airport to meet the visiting delegation. The group included schoolchildren with banners and dozens of monks and nuns.

Bill encourages conversation

The visit comes with expectations that U.S. President Joe Biden soon will sign legislation called "Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act," also called the Resolve Tibet Act, was passed by the U.S. Congress last week.

The bill seeks to encourage Beijing to speak with Tibetan leaders, a process that has been stalled since 2010. The goal of discussions would be to develop a negotiated agreement on Tibet that considers the Tibetan people's views on their cultural and historical identity.

"Over the last two years, the Resolve Tibet Bill was passed  and it is now on the desk of President Biden, so that will be a game changer," said Tenzin Lekshay, spokesperson of the CTA.

China pushes back on visit

The U.S. congressional visit and possible signing of the bill received pushback from China, who sees the Dalai Lama as separatist.

"We ... urge the U.S. to fully recognize the anti-China and separatist nature of the Dalai clique, abide by its commitments on Tibet-related issues, refrain from any form of contact with it, and stop sending erroneous messages," foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Tuesday.

"We urge the U.S. side to honor its commitment of recognizing Tibet as part of China and not supporting Tibetan independence, and not to sign the above-mentioned bill," he also said during a regular briefing.

The Dalai Lama fled to India after an unsuccessful 1959 uprising against Chinese rule in Tibet. The Dalai Lama has met U.S. officials and presidents during visits to the country but is yet to meet Biden as president.



Some information from Reuters was used in this report.
The 12-month grace period for student loan borrowers ended on September 30. The "on-ramp" period helped borrowers who are struggling to make payments avoid the risk of defaulting and hurting their credit score.

"The end of the on-ramp period means the beginning of the potentially harsh consequences for student loan borrowers who are not able to make payments," said Persis Yu, Deputy Executive Director at the Student Borrower Protection Center.

Around 43 million Americans have student loan debt, amounting to $1.5 trillion. Around eight million of those borrowers had enrolled in the SAVE plan, the newest income-driven repayment plan that extended the eligibility for borrowers to have affordable monthly student loan payments. However, this plan is currently on hold due to legal challenges.

With the on-ramp period and a separate program known as Fresh Start ending and the SAVE plan on hold, student loan borrowers who are struggling to afford their monthly payments have fewer options, added Yu. Student loan borrowers who haven't been able to afford their monthly payments must consider their options to avoid going into default.

If you have student loans, here's what you need to know.

What was the on-ramp period?

The Education Department implemented this grace period to ease the borrower's transition to make payments after a three-year payment pause during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this year-long period, borrowers were encouraged to keep making payments since interest continued to accumulate.

"Normally, loans will default if you fall about nine months behind on making payments, but during this on-ramp period, missed payments would not move people towards defaulting and then being subject to forced collections. However, if you missed payments, you still be falling behind ultimately on repaying your loans," said Abby Shaforth, director of National Consumer Law Center's Student Loan Borrower Assistance Project.

Since this grace period has ended, student loan borrowers who don't make payments will go delinquent or, if their loans are not paid for nine months, go into default.

Borrowers who cannot afford to make payments can apply for deferment or forbearance, which pause payments, though interest continues to accrue.

What happens if I don't make my payments?

Borrowers who can't or don't pay risk delinquency and eventually default. That can badly hurt your credit rating and make you ineligible for additional aid and government benefits.

If a borrower missed one month's payment, they will start receiving email notifications, said Shaforth. Once the loan hasn't been paid for three months, loan servicers notify to the credit reporting agencies that the loan is delinquent, affecting your credit history. Once the borrower hasn't paid the loan for nine months, the loan goes into default.

If you're struggling to pay, advisers first encourage you to check if you qualify for an income-driven repayment plan, which determines your payments by looking at your expenses. You can see whether you qualify by visiting the Federal Student Aid website. If you've worked for a government agency or a non-profit organization, you could also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which forgives student debt after 10 years.

What happens when a loan goes into default?

When you fall behind on a loan by 270 days  roughly nine months  the loan appears on your credit report as being in default.

Once a loan is in default, it goes into collections. This means the government can garnish wages (without a court order) to go towards paying back the loan, intercept tax refunds, and seize portions of Social Security checks and other benefit payments.

What if I can't pay?

If your budget doesn't allow you to resume payments, it's important to know how to navigate the possibility of default and delinquency on a student loan. Both can hurt your credit rating, which would make you ineligible for additional aid.

If you're in a short-term financial bind, you may qualify for deferment or forbearance  allowing you to temporarily suspend payment.

To determine whether deferment or forbearance are good options for you, you can contact your loan servicer. One thing to note: interest still accrues during deferment or forbearance. Both can also impact potential loan forgiveness options. Depending on the conditions of your deferment or forbearance, it may make sense to continue paying the interest during the payment suspension.

What is an income-driven repayment plan?

The U.S. Education Department offers several plans for repaying federal student loans. Under the standard plan, borrowers are charged a fixed monthly amount that ensures all their debt will be repaid after 10 years. But if borrowers have difficulty paying that amount, they can enroll in one of several plans that offer lower monthly payments based on income and family size. Those are known as income-driven repayment plans.

Income-driven options have been offered for years and generally cap monthly payments at 10% of a borrower's discretionary income. If a borrower's earnings are low enough, their bill is reduced to $0. And after 20 or 25 years, any remaining debt gets erased.

What is the latest with the SAVE program?

In August, the Supreme Court kept on hold the SAVE plan, the income-driven repayment plan that would have lowered payments for millions of borrowers, while lawsuits make their way through lower courts.

Eight million borrowers who had already enrolled in the SAVE plan don't have to pay their monthly student loan bills until the court case is resolved. Debt that already had been forgiven under the plan was unaffected.

The next court hearing about this case will be held on October 15.

What happened with the Fresh Start program?

The Fresh Start program, which gave benefits to borrowers who were delinquent prior to the pandemic payment pause, also closed on September 30. During this limited program, student loan borrowers who were in default prior to the pandemic were given the opportunity to remove their loans from default, allowing them to enroll in income-driven payment plans, or apply for deferment, among other benefits.
The European Union granted official candidate status to Georgia last year, but analysts say that led by the country's richest man, the government has turned toward Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Critics warn that Georgia's democratic future is at stake in October's elections.
By Kate Bartlett

CAPE TOWN  Cyril Ramaphosa was inaugurated Wednesday for his second term as South Africa's president, though analysts said he could face a tough road ahead in keeping his new coalition government together.



Ramaphosa took the oath of office at a colorful ceremony in Pretoria, attended by African royalty, heads of state, and diplomats.

He won a vote in parliament last week to lead the country for a second term.

But the second term begins under starkly different circumstances than the first. Ramaphosas African National Congress party lost its parliamentary majority in the May elections for the first time since the end of apartheid thirty years ago.

The ANC then engaged in talks with political opponents to form a coalition government that it is calling a government of national unity. Ramaphosa referenced that in his inaugural speech.

The voters of South Africa did not give any single party the full mandate to govern our country alone. The formation of a government of national unity is a moment of profound significance. It is the beginning of a new era, said Ramaphosa.

The ANC struck a deal with the main opposition party, the Democratic Alliance, or DA, which got the second largest number of votes at the polls. Several other smaller parties; the mainly Zulu Inkatha Freedom Party, the GOOD party, and the populist Patriotic Alliance have also joined the government.

The agreement with the centrist DA was a relief to the markets and resulted in gains for South Africas currency, the rand.

Lumkile Mondi, a lecturer in economics at Johannesburgs Witwatersrand University, explains the unity government is seen as a very positive step.

"This is happening both in terms of what the markets had expected - that a combination of different parties, led by the combination of the ANC and the DA, would be good for South Africa's development, ensuring that there is an investor-friendly environment -- while at the same time addressing the past inequalities, Mondi said.

There had been concerns in some quarters the ANC could go into government with the radical left wing Economic Freedom Fighters, which wants the nationalization of land, banks and mines. But the EFF has refused to join a unity government that includes the DA, which has a white leader, John Steenhuisen.

The uMkhonto weSizwe party, or MK, which got the third largest share of the vote and is led by former president Jacob Zuma, has also refused to join a unity government. MK has alleged, without any evidence, that there were election irregularities and refused to work with Ramaphosa, raising the specter of violence.

However, what is notable is how peaceful things have been so far, with the ANC accepting the loss of its majority graciously and forming a coalition, said analyst Melanie Verwoerd.

Unlike so many other countries in the developing world -- when the liberation party or liberation movement turned government and then after a couple of decades lose their overall majority and then wont accept that -- South Africa has gone through a totally peaceful democratic transition that is incredibly significant, Verwoerd said.

All eyes are now on whether the unity government deal between such ideologically diverse parties can hold.

Of course this government of national unity will definitely face challenges to keep this together will be a challenge, Verwoerd said.

However she notes Ramaphosa is a seasoned negotiator and believes he is the best man for the job.

He is expected to appoint his Cabinet in coming days.
Photo: Steffan Hill/HBO

Have you heard the news, or do you need a good clout in the ear? The next Game of Thrones spinoff is headed to our screens. On June 18, HBO confirmed in a press release that production has begun in Belfast, Ireland on the prequel series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. The show is based on The Hedge Knight, the first of three novellas in the Tales of Dunk and Egg series. George R. R. Martin, who is on board as a writer and executive producer, said in a blog post last year that the upcoming season will hopefully do well enough to allow for the next two novellas to be adapted as well. That will take a few years. Then comes the hard part, Martin wrote. Before we reach the end of the published stories, I will need to find time to write all the other Dunk & Egg novellas that I have planned. There are gulp more of them than I had once thought. Oof. We know how well it went the last time a Westeros show ended before its source material, dont we? Still, lets not get ahead of ourselves  all thats been confirmed for now is a single six-episode season. Below, heres what we know about A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, including which Targaryens have joined the cast, when the shows expected to drop, and more.

Whats it about?

A Knight of Seven Kingdoms takes place a century before the events of Game of Thrones, during an age when the Targaryen line still held the Iron Throne. Per an official but vague logline, the show follows a young, naive but courageous knight, Ser Duncan the Tall, and his diminutive squire, Egg, two unlikely heroes who face great destinies, powerful foes, and dangerous exploits. (Spoiler: Egg is the childhood nickname of King Aegon Targaryen the Fifth.) George R.R. Martin has said on his blog that the goal is to create a faithful adaptation of whats on the page. Since this is based on his novella The Hedge Knight, were specifically expecting to see the story of how Dunk and Egg first met during a tournament at Ashford Meadow.

Whos in the cast?

Rugby-pro-turned-actor Peter Claffey will star as Dunk. He certainly looks tall enough! Meanwhile, nine-year-old Dexter Sol Ansell (a.k.a. young Coriolanus Snow from The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes) has already shaved his head in preparation for his role as Egg.

The full cast also includes Finn Bennett as Aerion Targaryen, Bertie Carvel as Baelor Targaryen, Tanzyn Crawford as Tanselle, Daniel Ings as Ser Lyonel Baratheon, and Sam Spruell as Maekar Targaryen.

Who else is involved?

Owen Harris, who directed San Junipero and other episodes of Black Mirror, will direct three episodes. Sarah Adina Smith (Lessons In Chemistry, Busters Mal Heart) will direct the other three. George R.R. Martin and Ira Parker wrote the show, and they both also serve as executive producers alongside Harris, Ryan Condal, Vince Gerardis, and Sarah Bradshaw.

When is it coming out?

An official release date hasnt been confirmed yet. However, during a Warner Bros. Discovery earnings call in February 2024, CEO David Zaslav said that the show would premiere in late 2025 on Max. So far, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms still seems to be on track to make that estimate, given that production began in June. At least weve got House of the Dragon to hold us over while we wait?
We need to talk about cold opens. The franchise that made them immortal began the custom by having 007 himself appear to be killed by Robert Shaw before the title sequence of From Russia With Love, kicking off a tradition of attention-grabbing pre-title set pieces that would remain a hallmark of the series. Forty-nine years later, Skyfall would repeat the gag of having Bond appear to be killed before the opening credits.

I dont know if Blake Crouch, the novelist turned showrunner of Dark Matter, or Alik Sakharov, the director of the series penultimate episode, are Bond-o-philes, but theyve certainly seen network dramas where the cold open has long been standard. Some chapters of Dark Matter have featured cold opens; Episode eight, Jupiter, inexplicably does not.

Inexplicably, I say, because the episode opens with Jason A, our hero, attempting to murder Jason B, the villain, in the alley behind Jason As house. At long last, the Schizoid Man/Superman III/Terminator 2/Star Trek VI doppelganger dustup we have somewhat impatiently been waiting for! And even though Jason A has a knife and Jason B is armed only with a trash bag, Jason B manages to repel the attack, smashing Jason As skull into the asphalt. The guy weve spent seven hours of television rooting for is now dead. If that gasp-inducing moment doesnt belong before the title sequence, I dont know what the hecking heck does.

I wouldnt make an issue of this had not Dark Matters sixth episode, Superposition, deployed a cold open, attempting to goose suspense by delaying its title sequence until ten minutes into a 55-minute episode. And what event was deemed sufficiently surprising, shocking, intriguing, or otherwise dramatic to provide the little hit of narrative propellant to kick us into a title sequence?

Daniela pointing out to her husband, whom we know to be Jason B, that its weird that hes started flossing now. Dont you dare touch that Apple TV remote, True Believers!

So Im deducting one full star for the absence of a cold open in an episode that clearly demands one, but otherwise this installment is pretty damn good, delivering fully on the premise the prior episodes concluding scene teased: The conflict is no longer Jason A  or Jason One, as one of them refers to, uh, themselves in this episode  vs. Jason B. Its a whole bunch of Jasons A (a flock of Jasons? A school of Jasons? A murder of Jasons?) who have branched off from the one Jason B abducted and exiled to a foreign universe about a month ago in story-time, versus the one Jason B.

All the Jasons A have been wronged by Jason B. All have suffered. Some of them, we learn, have suffered worse than the Jason A weve been following has, bearing the visible scars of horrific injuries. All of them have fought their way to their home dimension only to find themselves, quite literally, redundant. The stakes have been raised!

After Jason B fights off his would-be assassin, Daniela goes to visit Ryan C  the auto-mechanic Ryan whom Jason B kidnapped and brought to Jason As dimension to get the police off his back for Ryan As disappearance. Daniela is puzzled that Ryan, the brilliant chemist who has been her friend since college, now knows her only as a customer at his auto shop (and that he claims to run an auto shop). Asking him to describe what he remembers, Ryan C tells her some guy he didnt recognize kept buying him drinks. Showing Ryan C a photo of Jason on her phone, Daniela gets confirmation that Jason is responsible for Ryan Cs predicament.

Back at the Milshire Hotel, we see a man who sure looks like Jason A unwrap the knife we saw him buy last episode. Wait, didnt we just see him get killed while attempting to cut Jason B with that same knife? Well, one of him, yeah. Stepping into the hallway, he finds himself face-to-face with himself. One Jason flees, the other gives chase. Still another, this one dressed in the goofy bear-patterned sweater we saw him appropriate from the snowbound house in episode four, steps out onto N. Milwaukee Avenue.

The Jason hes pursuing eludes him by slipping into the Village Tap, where tattooed barkeep Matt welcomes him. I need a drink, Jason says.

That was quick, Matt retorts. Thats when Jason A-1 spots Jason A-2 in a booth. Matt clocks him, too.

Jason A-2 looks to have logged a few more rough miles on his way back to this Chicago than Jason A-1. Hes wearing a watch cap, which doesnt completely cover a big stitched-up gash on his forehead.

I guess this was inevitable. That different versions of us would spawn in the box., Jason A-2 muses.

Every choice I made in there created a different Jason, Jason A-1 says, picking up the thread. And every choice each of those Jasons made, and so on, and so on.

Jason A-2 reveals that the Amanda who helped him escape from Velocity Labs perished in a very dark world. Hes relieved to hear that Jason A-1s Amanda found a welcoming world and chose to stay there. Theyre both out of ampules.

The talk quickly turns to murder. (Or suicide, technically?) You must have thought of Kankakee, right? asks Jason A-2. We dont know what that is, but the Jasons A agree they know about that first reserve  huh?  because of Charlie. Which means that Jason Two  thats what I call him  doesnt know about it.

This is Jason A-2 talking now. The one who saw his Amanda die arrived back in Chicago a day earlier than Jason A-1 and had already dug a grave and procured a gun. He declares his intention to make Jason Two pay.

We all think of ourselves as Jason One, he says. Cant all be Jason One.

I dont want to hurt you or anyone like us, Jason A-2 declares. But Im not gonna let anyone get in the way of me being with Daniela and Charlie.

He does his selves a solid and pays for their beers before excusing himself.

Jason A-1 wakes up on a park bench before buying himself breakfast at a diner. He has the same book of matches we saw him pick up at the Village Tap the night before, which is how we know hes the same Jason. He uses them to fire up a stogie, right in the middle of the diner. Being a nice guy, he looks uncomfortable to be engaging in such poor behavior.

You are a very rude man, another patron tells him. His server tells him he cant smoke inside, as does her manager. The cop who shows up, very quickly, to take him into custody has a familiar face: Shes Dawn, who in Jason Bs home universe was the Velocity Labs leg-breaker who murdered Daniela. How did you become a detective? Jason A-1 asks her as she puts him in the back of her cruiser.

Jason B is brushing his teeth methodically  hes really committed to oral hygiene, this sociopath  when Daniela comes in to ask if she can take the Civic to run an errand. Jason B testily tells her to take Charlies car because the corpse of the Jason he killed the prior night is still in the trunk. Jason B has also evidently forgotten that he promised to take Charlie on a tour of the University of Chicago campus, which Charlie points out once the two of them are in the car. Jason B had planned on unloading that body after dropping off Charlie at school, I guess?

On their tour, Jason B points out the house where he first caught sight of Daniela and tells Charlie that had he not chosen to attend that party, he wouldve regretted it for the rest of his life. Charlie is angered by this: Your whole life hinged on a moment that was basically a freak accident, he says, leaving unspoken that he himself would not exist had his old man not attended that party.

We already know Jason B lacks the bedside manner to respond sympathetically to an outbreak of adolescence as severe as this one, but he doesnt even get the chance to try because he spies yet another Jason following the pair of them. This one has what looks like a substantial burn scar on the right side of his face. Jason B is trying to keep ahead of this letter-unknown Jason without tipping off Charlie that something is wrong. It isnt working.

Daniela, meanwhile, has used a pair of bolt cutters to break into Jason Bs storage unit. Youd think those places would have measures in place to prevent this. Daniela finds a full box of ampules of Lavender Fairy, banded stacks of currency from other dimensions  hey, its Robert F. Kennedys face on the $20 bill!  and unsecured cell phones full of photos of what looks like her husband being surreptitiously observed. The most intriguing clue is a pair of overalls with a name patch that reads Ryan over the breast. The Ryan she thought to be crazy had insisted that hes a mechanic.

At the university library, Charlie is alarmed by his dads odd behavior. Jason B orders his not-yet-licensed-to-drive son to go collect the car and pick him up while Jason B tries to elude the wounded Jason on his heels. The pursuit culminates in our second Jason-v.-Jason melee of the episode, this one a mens room brawl in the tradition of True Lies or Mission: Impossible  Fallout, with the caveat that neither participant is a trained assassin, so its all a lot messier. Jason B kills the scarface Jason, this one packing a different model knife than the one we saw at least one Jason A buy in the prior episode. He needs a moment to collect himself after killing himself for the second time in maybe 12 hours, so he just barely finds his way back outside to rescue Charlie, who has been pulled over by a campus cop. Jason B manages to persuade the cop to let them go before the matter of the dead body in the trunk comes up. You definitely get points on your license for that, and Charlie doesnt even have a license yet.

The next scene is the big payoff as Daniela bails Jason A out of jail following his arrest for causing a scene with his big stogie. Jason A tells her he hasnt laid eyes on her since the night he went to the Village Tap to celebrate Ryan As Pavia Prize triumph and that getting himself arrested was a ploy to get her a place where they could talk.

That man isnt me, Jason A stammers. Hes another version of me.

Hes lost her long before he gets to he has access to other realities, so to prove his wild story, Jason A begs Daniela to call him. In a beat right out of David Lynchs Lost Highway, Jason A stares silently at Daniela while she speaks on the phone to the man whose voice matches his exactly. Its a lucky thing Jason B picked up. Jason A tells her to say to the impostor on the other end of the line that shed like to visit the Keys again for Christmas, reasoning that Jason B wont know shes referring to a trip that never happened. It works.

Jason A begs Daniela to meet him later with Charlie at a location of her choosing because any place he thinks of Jason B would likely guess. Without promising shell definitely come, she names the Bean in Millennium Park. (If shed used this beloved reflective sculptures formal name, Cloud Gate, wed have cried foul.) Hes also clever enough to ask her to think of a safe word. Jupiter is what she chooses.

Returning home, Daniela begins to text Charlie to summon him out to join her in the car, but then erases the message and goes into the house. I dont understand this choice. Inside, she finds Jason B in a state of alarm, telling her they all need to flee. She tries to speak privately with Charlie, in person and via text, but Jason B is watching them both like an interdimensional hawk. He keeps telling Daniela to get a suitcase. Thinking on her feet, she asks him to help her reach one in the basement and then hits him over the head as he starts down the stairs.

The final moments are unhinged. As Charlie and Daniela try to escape in her car, theyre intercepted by Jason A, who hustles them both into his stolen ride. As he drives, he explains he hasnt seen either of them since that night at the Village Tap, that the man theyve been living with is a fraud, and so on. Realizing that this Jason A is not the one she bailed out of jail, Daniela asks him to pull over. Just then, their car collides with another one, this one driven by still another Jason A! Daniela and Charlie flee on foot as two Jasons A try to free themselves from their crumpled cars.

Arriving at the Bean, Daniela demands that the Jason A waiting for them there speak their safe word. He does, and then wraps their son in his arms, keeping his eyes on his wife.

Its a cathartic reunion. But what about all the other Jasons A whove fought their way back to their family to find that theyve been replaced not just by a greedy, gaslighting villain but by duplicates who, again, are just as aggrieved as they have been? This is a story wherein the losers are going to outnumber the winners by a lot.

General Relativity

 We have confirmation at last that the Village Tap playlist includes at least one song that is not the Animals We Gotta Get Out of This Place. The song playing when two Jason As share a booth and drink their pints together is Bob Dylans Visions of Johanna, from the 1966 landmark Blonde on Blonde. Surely theres a dimension out there with a song called Visions of Jason from the album Brown on Brown.
Photo: Netflix/Everett Collection

Netflix House? Netflix House. It just doesnt sound right. Netflix House feels wrong in the mouth  but I guess if the streamer is going for a Disneyesque empire, its better than Netflix Land. Either way, its happening: Netflix is moving from the digital space to the physical by buying up dearly departed department stores (now theres a phrase that works). The first two Netflix Houses will open in malls in Dallas, Texas, and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, in 2025 per a press release. Netflix Houses will be immersive Netflix experiences in which visitors can indulge in retail therapy and get a taste  literally  of your favorite Netflix series and films through unique food and drink offerings, according to Netflixs chief marketing officer, Marian Lee. Both initial Netflix Houses will span 100,000 feet, and outside the spaces will be eye-popping sculptures. We saw what happened in the mall at the end of Stranger Things season three  eye-popping sounds like a threat.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19.As host of COP29, Azerbaijan has the opportunity to advance health as a critical component of climate policy and to promote the investment agenda, and we are glad for Azerbaijan's hosting this event, Martin Edlund, CEO of the Malaria No More organization, told Trend.

He brought out the fact that health was last year's first officially included topic at COP28.

Azerbaijan is currently in a unique position as a leader to not only discuss high-level political commitments, but also to transform them into tangible financial commitments that can safeguard the health of its citizens and prevent them from succumbing to the climate-related health crisis, the CEO added.

To note, 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 emerged in March 1995 in Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.

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Just look at them all. Photo-Illustration: Vulture; Photos: Disney

Star Wars is obsessed with the light-vs.-dark duality of the Jedi, but the franchises most interesting characters tend to be those who operate on the moral fringe, pulling off schemes and heists amid escalating striation, Galactic Empire fascism, and worsening conflict. Theyre pilots and pirates, deserters and tricksters, organic and inorganic creatures who say theyre out for themselves but also, under all that guff and slick talk, have an earnest core. Theyre smugglers, and they are  coincidentally? Purposely? Wonderfully!  the hottest characters Star Wars has to offer. Especially when contrasted against those boring (mostly) sexless Jedi. Yeesh!

Nearly every live-action Star Wars project has a character who falls into this category, a pattern that became clearer with the introduction of Manny Jacintos twitchy, nefarious, utterly captivating apothecary, Qimir, in The Acolyte. Star Wars is full of scoundrels and scamps oozing sex appeal under their earth-toned utilitarian clothes and identity-hiding helmets, so we have compiled the 16 most appealing.

A quick note about our methodology: We started with a list of dozens that we made more manageable by drawing a line between smugglers and crime lords (so no Hutts) and excluding animated characters, so our apologies if you are very into, say, Jolee Bindo or Trace and Rafa Martez and are disappointed not to see them here. (Please provide your impassioned defenses in the comments!) And now, without further ado, an ode to the rogues and rascals who make being hot and doing crimes in this galaxy so fun to watch.

16.

Honestly, theres nothing terribly wrong with Tobias Beckett. Hes sufficiently complicated, being a double-crossing thief who loses his spouse and partner in crime, Val, when the Vandor-1 coaxium heist goes bad. In hindsight, his decision to betray his budding mentee, Han, was perfectly justifiable. Hed just met this kid! But really, the main reason he lands at the bottom of this power ranking is the hair: Woody Harrelson has played characters with some questionable dos in his day (see The Hunger Games among others), but Becketts blond duckling swirl is a whopper. Nicholas Quah

15.

Hes good with his hands, has a rakish little mustache, and can fix any piece of tech you have thats acting up. Husband material. Roxana Hadadi

14.

Please keep your ageist, anti-wrinkle takes to yourself. Maz Kanata has more than 1,000 years of pirate-queen experience, and she makes those weird goggles look cool as hell; you would be lucky to be with someone who radiates this much confidence. Its still unfortunate that Lupita Nyongo didnt have a live-action role in the Star Wars reboot trilogy, but her drawling, amused voice performance does a lot to enliven the character. Maz is self-assured enough to climb across a restaurant table to get a better look at a mans eyes and has connections to all corners of the underworld. Can you match her freak? R.H.

13.

Some of us were into Hers AI-rotica well before those losers at OpenAI attempted to hijack the vibes. Some of us are just ahead of the curve! But even without any prerequisite predisposition toward robophilia, L3-37 has a lot going for it. We do love a civil-rights revolutionary, and the droid has the undeniable benefit of Phoebe Waller-Bridges wry, withering voice. N.Q.

12.

Baby Solo is kind of a dud, but to be fair, we catch this version of Han in the process of becoming a spacefaring smuggler. For most of Solo, Alden Ehrenreichs interpretation possesses more street-rat energy than anything else, which is its own separate tradition of hotness thats only minorly related to smuggler hotness. The latter is principally tied to a life in perpetual, untethered motion  like a pirate! By contrast, a street rats debonairness lies more in a sense of scrappiness and putting on airs  like Aladdin! This can still be totally appealing, but its simply not the same. N.Q.

11.

More and more, it seems Donald Glover is stuck playing the same version of himself in everything, from his Childish Gambino persona to his work in Magic Mike XXL, Guava Island, Atlanta, and Mr. & Mrs. Smith. In hindsight, his version of Lando shoulders a ton of What is Glovers career gonna be? baggage. But in the films internal vacuum, his smuggler is a perfectly serviceable sneering, flirting, posturing figure; he clearly lacks the gravitas of elder Lando, but his unbroken eye contact when he tells Han Everything you heard about me is true is a great little moment. Glovers Lando is not a forever romantic prospect, but with how appealing he looks in that upturned-collar cloak, hes definitely a ruin your life for one night to six months kind of dude. R.H.

10.

Bless me, Space Jesus, for I have sinned thinking about how hot you are once again! The Jedi pilot and resistance fighter of the Ghost smuggling crew from Star Wars Rebels is double-take handsome when he makes his live-action debut in Ahsoka. Im not sure which hair products Eman Esfandi has access to, but they are working. That curl texture: Its Let me run my fingers through it, please??? appeal is endless. R.H.

9.

What if chest hair but everywhere? N.Q.

8.

A leather jacket can wear you if you dont have the bearing or attitude for it. But Thandiwe Newton is so memorable as Val in Solo because her aviator-style coat with its white fur lining is such a perfect fit and so effectively establishes her as a capable badass who just happens to be serving face. Even during the train heist that kills her, Val looks as if shed step on your neck and youd like it  an area in which Newton thrives, actually, between Solo, Westworld, and The Chronicles of Riddick. Vals being killed off so early is an injustice for all of us who would have loved to see her slap someone in the face. R.H.

7.

A fair amount of the Canto Bight subplot in The Last Jedi, well intentioned as it may be, hasnt aged flawlessly; its Here is why war profiteering is bad framing is too ham-fisted to be anything but didactic. But Benicio del Toro as the hacker and smuggler thief DJ is pitch-perfect, a morally compromised character whose nihilistic worldview supports anything he wants to do and whose stubble looks like it would feel gritty and wonderful rubbing against my face. Only someone as seasoned at playing charming assholes as del Toro is could make a line like Good guys, bad guys, made-up words sound wise rather than foolish, but thats exactly DJs appeal. He sells a cynical fantasy, and he does it while being very tall, dark, and handsome. R.H.

6.

Oscar Isaac, with those firearms, that little tendril falling over his forehead, and that smart-aleck smirk  perhaps you can resist the former spice runner turned rebel who would go on to (briefly) rule the spice world of Arrakis and sympathize with the rebels there, too. But I have eyes and I am mortal and therefore I cannot. R.H.

5.

Lando embodies what happens to smugglers when they get to make good  they become the Man. For a certain kind of person (e.g., me), this presents its own kind of allure. Whats more attractive than the power radiating off a shady criminal turned politician who looks like Billy Dee Williams? Not much, I assure you. Sure, Lando sells out Han and the gang to the galactic fascists in The Empire Strikes Back, but lets be real: He made the perfectly defensible choice to take care of his own people. Pragmatism is underrated! In any case, he makes up for it by saving Luke later because a great smuggler is one who works every possible angle. N.Q.

4.

For its manifold sins, I would have committed to completely scrubbing The Rise of Skywalker from my memory if not for the movies sizzling few scenes with Zorii Bliss, Poes former spice-running buddy and old flame. Sure, its probably a sin of its own to hide Keri Russells face behind a Daft Punk helmet, but I get it. A sense of mystery is the height of sensuality, you know? Plus, Russell still gets to project her smoky voice and equally smoky eyes, and the characters obliquely referenced, totally complicated history with Poe is the stuff of noir, the sexiest of genres. N.Q.

3.

First of all, its Manny Jacinto, a man with a jawline so sharp it could drill rocks in the sea. In The Acolyte, his tectonically angular face is framed by long emo-boy hair that totally works, especially because his performance gives just a hint of peak Tony Leung: aloof and a bit of a weirdo yet utterly charming and definitely dangerous. That edge is somewhat novel in Star Warss universe of smugglers, which typically feels bifurcated between scoundrels with a heart of gold and petty criminals who are rarely more than their base nature. Qimir feels like a different kind of cat. Who knows where The Acolyte will take this character, but in Jacintos hands, you really cant take your eyes off him. N.Q.

2.

Look, you cant argue with the source. Theres a reason whole generations of Star Wars fans have had quiet fantasies of gleefully ruining their lives to be with this man. Harrison Ford forged an archetype: the skeptical rogue, a smirk king, He Who Shot First. You think hes hot? He knows. Luke Skywalker may be the Golden Farmboy Hero of a Thousand Faces, but really, who dreams about running off with that guy? The appeal of Han Solo lies in how hes basically someone you might actually bump into at a bar (or a cantina)  just give him a blaster, a big hairy buddy, and a sick-ass ship. N.Q.

1.

The only way forward for Star Wars as a franchise was to push against the nostalgia that had come to define this pop-culture behemoth. Han Solo was a generational icon, yes. But we needed new conflicted heroes, new smuggler hotties, new character arcs that reflect and refract this galaxys moral underpinnings and put unexpected spins on resistance. Diego Lunas Cassian is that guy. From his introduction in Rogue One, shooting stormtroopers and an informer to save himself and carry information about the Death Star back to his comrades, to his expanded backstory in Tony Gilroys franchise-best TV series Andor, Cassian has become the rugged-jawed, soulful-eyed, fuck-the-Empire smuggler for our current age. When he looks, you feel him looking: The heft of his gaze is a charged, invigorating thing; his growing moral clarity an infectious force. Think of his dreamy, stalwart expression when he listens to Nemiks manifesto and hears Remember this: try  thats the face of a man who will smuggle, lie, steal, or kill to create a better reality for all those living under subjugation and oppression, and thats what Star Wars has always been about. Whats hotter than a man who realizes that revolutionary politics is the only way forward? Absolutely nothing. R.H.
When the great film critic Pauline Kael reviewed Star Wars for The New Yorker back in 1977, she praised the pictures crowd-pleasing craft but also dinged George Lucas for what she regarded as an overall flatness of style and lack of vision. Writing about the Princess Leia character in particular, Kael famously wrote, In a gesture toward equality of the sexes, the high-school-cheerleader princess-in-distress talks tomboy-tough (but) is it because the picture is synthesized from the mythology of serials and old comic books that it didnt occur to anybody that she could get the Force?

Intentionally or not, nearly every Star Wars project that has followed the original movie has been a corrective to Kaels complaint. In The Empire Strikes Back (which Kael really dug), we met Yoda, a wrinkly little green guy about as strong in the Force as any Jedi ever has been. Since then, fans have encountered hundreds of lightsaber-wielding creatures of various shapes and sizes and hues and genders, Forcing it up. Apparently, even Wookiees  yes, Wookiees  can be Jedi.

In this weeks The Acolyte episode, titled Day, most of the shows major characters converge on the planet Khofar in search of Kelnacca (Joonas Suotamo), the Wookiee who was stationed on Brendok with Sol, Indara and Torbin when the Jedi disastrously attempted to recruit Osha into the Order. The current Jedi leadership now knows that Mae, under the guidance of some mysterious dark Master, is planning to execute everyone who tried to take her twin sister away from her. Kelnacca is next on that list, unless Sol and his cohorts can beat her and her companion Qimir to the Wookiees remote lair.

Like Revenge / Justice two weeks ago, Day is less laden with backstory and set-up than the other two Acolyte episodes; and as a result its enjoyable to watch, in a low-key way. I dont mean it as an insult when I say that it gave off Land of the Lost vibes. For all the millions of dollars that Lucasfilm and Disney+ are spending on sets, costumes, and effects for The Acolyte, theres something perversely charming about the show when it looks basic and cheap. So it goes here. Our heroes  on a simple quest to find one hulking, hairy galoot  have to traverse a dark, dangerous, and honestly pretty fake-looking forest, filled with enormous insects and other strange surprises. Sid and Marty Krofft would be proud.

Theres more to this story than just a Wookiee-hunt. The Jedi leadership  especially the perpetually nervous Vernestra  would like Sols team to move swiftly and stealthily to bring Mae into custody, so they can learn who trained her. They dont seem all that concerned about Kelnacca or Osha, whom it is strongly implied is being brought to Khofar by Sol as bait. Vernestra is willing to shrug off some ethical concerns to keep the Jedi High Council and the Galactic Senate from learning about Maes roaring rampage of revenge.

To be fair, Sols motivations seem to be  to me, anyway  less a cynical act of ass-covering than a case of him genuinely caring about Osha and Mae. He insists to Osha that theres still some good in her sister; and that she could be saved with a little sibling love and compassion. Osha, on the other hand, quietly pulls the skeptical Yord aside while theyre trekking through the wilderness and makes him promise that if Mae wont listen to her, hell take her down.

As always, the sisters are at the heart of this Acolyte episode, searching their own feelings even as powerful forces all around them are yanking at their strings. As Osha travels with the Jedi  stuck in the bland civilian robe they make the non-initiated wear  she finds some of her old connection to the Force coming back, which makes her feel slightly wary, since shes never been able to handle the Jedis acceptance of death and loss. Mae, meanwhile, confides in Qimir that shes losing confidence in her Masters plan. How is she supposed to kill a Jedi without using a weapon? And if she fails to complete her assignment, what becomes of her?

Maes growing uncertainty isnt assuaged much by Qimir, who needles her about her failure to complete her Masters no weapon assignment, and who appears to have some association with her Master that hes not being fully honest about. (I just owe him, he mumbles.) So as they close in on Kelnaccas home, Mae sets a crude trap for Qimir  a classic Star Wars rope-trap!  and announces her intention to surrender to the Wookiee.

Days feels incomplete. The episode is on the shorter side at just barely over 30 minutes (a good chunk of which is wasted on Coruscant, where Vernestra essentially recaps the story so far); and neither of the traveling parties reach their destination until the final scene. When they do arrive, Kelnacca has already been assassinated. His chest-wound, which looks like a slash from a lightsaber, is still smoking. The scoundrel who may have killed him  a masked figure  emerges from the shadows just before the credits roll and sends the entire Jedi contingent flying through the air with one slight gesture. Presumably, this is Maes Master, taking matters into his (hers? their? its?) own hands.

Of course, given that we dont know who the Master is, its hard to say for sure if this is that person. It could be Qimir, freed from the trap and all masked up. Or Qimir couldve been the Master all along, manipulating Mae up close by pretending to be her friend.

From the beginning, The Acolyte has been pitched as the Star Wars version of a criminal procedural, so were supposed to be in the dark at this point about whos killing whom. But were also, somewhat frustratingly, not getting the full picture yet of why Maes masked Master is at odds with the Jedi. We can only assume it has something to do with the Force: Who gets it, who uses it, and who should never be allowed to go near it again.

Force Ghosts

 Id like to give a shout-out to the commenter aruffer from last weeks recap, who is more familiar with the expanded Star Wars canon than I. Aruffer noted that The Acolyte creator Leslye Headland has expressed an admiration for Knights of the Old Republic II, a video game which apparently holds the Jedi in less awe and reverence than a lot of the other Star Wars stories. Something to keep in mind, for sure.

 I know we were all hoping to hang out more with Kelnacca this week, to see what the life of a hermetic Wookiee Jedi is like (beyond the spiral etchings on his walls, that is, which appear to have some deeper meaning given the ominous music that plays whenever the camera zooms in on them). Alas, the show has other plans. Kelnacca barely appears in this episode. But at least we get to meet Bazil, a little rodent-y fellow who, judging by what we see of him in this episode: is an excellent tracker; is suspicious of droids; gets lost very easily.

 The first two Acolytes had titles with two opposed words (Lost / Found, Revenge / Justice), while the next two have sported single-word titles. I strongly suspect though that next weeks episode will be called Night, given that Day ends on a cliffhanger just as the sun sets. And I wouldnt be surprised if last weeks half-origin story Destiny will eventually be paired with a similarly titled companion episode later this season. (But what should its title be? Happenstance, perchance?)
Lillian Tshabalala-Malulyck in Dark Noon, at St. Anns Warehouse. Photo: Teddy Wolff

A little more than five years ago, audiences at St. Anns Warehouse eyed each other across a long, sparse playing space, its neutral brown evoking the rolling plains and dusty mainstreets of an America in the final throes of westward expansion. Now, at the same theater, inside a similar scenic container, the Danish director Tue Biering and the South African theater-maker Nhlanhla Mahlangu are taking playgoers back to the old West for another reconsideration of foundational American myths. The co-directors of Dark Noon cant help it that shades of Daniel Fishs sexyand, more to the point, thrillingly, profoundly revisionistOklahoma! still haunt this particular venue. But the fact that their own thematically comparable show contributes so little of substance to the same grand, gnarly conversation is their pig and their farm. Dark Noon aims to peel the romantic, heroic, white-and-European mask from the hoary historical narrative of Manifest Destiny, but not only does it feel late to the partythat mask has already rotted awaybut it also shows up with mostly truisms to offer.

At least it starts out strong: As the theater darkens, Biering and Mahlangus ensembleall South African actorsstride down the sides of the space. Silhouetted at a stand mic, one of them whistles ominously. We know that whistle, just as we know the hulking shapes two other performers make as they step toward each other. A fourth actor rolls across the stage in a ball  a human tumbleweed. No ones wearing spurs, but in our minds we can hear them clinking. Theres an approach, a turn, ten paces, and then, BANG. Its a promising beginning for a show that describes itself as a subversive reimagining of history through an outsiders view of Hollywood westerns. Then people start talking. Once upon a time in the middle of the 1800s, says another actor, Lillian Tshabalala-Malulyck, as she dons a blonde wig and stares into a live-feed camera, her face blown up on a screen at one end of the stage, far far away from South Africa, on the continent called Europe, there was a huge crisis of hunger and poverty. Most of the Europeans were starving, and were very poor. I know, I know  poor white people? Its hard for me to imagine too, but work with me here.

This is the kind of storytelling, and the level of complexity and humor, Dark Noon will employ throughout. Its seven actors, six Black and one white, soon join Tshabalala-Malulyck in their own garish yellow wigs, covering their faces with white powder to portray a brutal and dim-witted parade of settlers, pioneers, and cowboys. (These loaded labels are specifically called out and defined in the course of the show.) It feels important to note that Biering, the European in the room, wrote the script, while his co-director Mahlangu handles the shows choreography, which is, by contrast, often more compelling if only by virtue of being more fluid and ambiguous. In limited moments, the actors speak in untranslated Zulu, and something new and potent is released into the room. But, when they return to English, the majority of the plays text veers ironic and simplistic, like an edgy term paper by someone whos excited for us to know that he not only read Guns, Germs, and Steel but also found it problematic. I often wondered what Dark Noon would have been like as a piece of pure movementa fuller dance with Johan Klkjrs exciting set, where a scrappy frontier town is assembled as if out of Lincoln Logsor if the creators hadnt chosen English as their productions principal language.

Violence had become a part of their DNA, says Tshabalala-Malulycks narrator around the shows halfway point. The pioneers, she says, had spent all their lives fighting, and violence was now their primary form of communication. It was in their nature. The only way they knew how to behave was through exercising power. If this is in earnest, I call bullshit, and if it isnt, why should we care? In its attempt to topple once-dominant narratives, Dark Noon participates in the same fallacies such narratives long relied on. The point of view has shifted but the temptation to speak in bulldozing generalizationsto dismiss entire populations as inherently backwards and violentclings like a wet sock. In the mouths of the old white writers, this stuff readily presents itself as the facile, racist garbage that it was and is. And while flipping the script might render it hipper, it doesnt make it less superficial. This isnt reverse racism, which still isnt a real thing. Its just a shallow, boring way to think about people. Reaching for a more nuanced, specific view of those who came before usmore nuanced, even, than they themselves might have takenisnt ultimately a matter of their humanity, but our own  we owe it not to them but to ourselves.

Besides, the First Nations dont come off much better here than the colonizers do. Every so often, Mandla Gaduka or Thulani Zwane show up wearing feathered headdresses and stoic expressions, and then get hollered at or locked up or shot (and shot and shot and shot) by the white folks. Were so proud of ourselves for dispensing with the savage half of the nasty old trope; why is it so hard for us to let go of the noble half? Despite, we are told, the fact that the peoples who came across the Bering Strait thousands of years ago were complex and diverse  for all their differences, one belief held true  that no one could own the land. This might be broadly accurate, and certainly it presents a clear and convenient set of progressive values with which to align ourselves (in case we were confused over the moral fiber of the pillaging, raping settlers)  but again, its too easy. Hundreds of years before covered wagons, cowboys, and even Columbus, the city-state of Cahokiain the twelfth century, the biggest New World metropolis north of Mexicohad already risen, expanded, moved toward a variety of hierarchical practices that sure looked a lot like enclosure and eminent domain, then declined and collapsed. Among plenty of fascinating anthropological examples, Cahokias existence serves as proof that people and cultures are rarely pure and never simple.

But Dark Noon is happy to keep things straightforward  so straightforward, in fact, that the show often feels less researched than brainstormed. What do we all think the American old West was like? More precisely and intentionally embraced, such a question could make for its own intriguing play  to wit, Anne Washburns brilliant Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play, where the characters sit around their after-the-apocalypse campfire attempting to reconstruct Simpsons episodes from memory. But Dark Noon doesnt signal that this kind of deliberately fuzzy private mythmaking is the heart of its project. At least not until its very end  I wont spoil the details, but in the shows finale, the masks come off, and suddenly Dark Noon becomes, for a few minutes at least, sharply personal and compelling. How much does it matter, though, when whats come before is nearly two intermissionless hours of generalized burlesque? When, for instance, Tshabalala-Malulyck tells the story of Sam Brannan, the man who started the Gold Rush, her jokey recitation of events reads not as, on some level, self-aware but simply glib: Now, Id like to imagine that Sam was probably chilling in his store one day and he realized how boring his life was and so he heard a voice from above. A voice of God, if you will. That said, Sam?  Your life is boring. How about I show you some precious shiny stone to make you rich?

This campy tone is calculated, but that doesnt make it work. In an interview with the British Theatre Guide podcast, Mahlangu described Dark Noon as a riposte to centuries of African history being written by a European gaze  We are inverting this thing, he said. This is what it looks like when you are writing someone elses history. Can you see how ridiculous it looks? That is why we are so ridiculous when we are inside the world of Dark Noon. The idea of overtly waking up and thinking you deserve everything that is in the hands of someone else, and that kind of psychosis of thinking. Theres a conceptual neatness to Mahlangus analysis: Not only did you kill us and steal from us; then you cast us as beasts and fools in your stories, so now well return the favor. But just turning the tables of narrative power isnt enough to create a nuanced, revelatory piece of art. It leaves a void in the center of the room, a dull gap where theatrical and historical events that should shake us, shock us, only leave us thinking, Well And then?

_

In the tiny upstairs theater at the Connelly, another experiment in rebalancing power is taking place. Marin Ireland, extraordinary as an actor, has written a play in which very real events from her own life are receiving if not a public exorcismsuch final catharsis may never be possiblethen a kind of communal witnessing and processing, a long overdue ritual of acknowledgement.

For more than a decade, the theater world has carried around the disturbing half-secret that while Ireland was in a relationship with the actor Scott Shepherd, Shepherd hit her during an argument, giving her a black eye. It was talked aboutthe Times weighed in, as did people who found the Times coverage skewed and distressingbut this was pre-Me Too, and no one really knew how to handle the ugly, sticky facts. As Irelands thoughtful, painful Pre-Existing Condition makes excruciatingly clear, we still dont. We are too fucking liberal for this shit, says one of the characters, known only as D (played, when I saw the show, by Gregory Connors, understudying for Greg Keller and hitting a home run). The plays four figures are designated by letters, A through D. A, the authorial avatar, is navigating the traumatic aftermath of an abusive event and the ensuing break-up; B (Dael Orlandersmith), C (the excellent Sarah Steele), and D flow in and out of her orbit as friends, therapists, moderators of a domestic violence support group, lawyers, family members, and tentative first dates. Director Maria Dizzia keeps the action spare and elegant, with Isabella Byrds precise, subtle lighting fluently shifting our focus and our interpretation of the neutral playing space.

Sarah Steele and Tatiana Maslany in Pre-Existing Condition, at the Connolly. Photo: Emilio Madrid

Central to Pre-Existing Conditions concept is that the role of A will be played by several different actors during the shows run. Eventually Dizzia herself will step in, taking up the spiral-bound script that A carries throughout the show, signaling both the characters shared nature and the crucial, physicalized retention of her own story. So will Julia Chan, Deirdre OConnell, and Tavi Gevinson. I saw Tatiana Maslanyutterly raw and wrenching without overplaying a noteand though theres certainly a celebrity factor in this rotating casting, it also serves other, more meaningful purposes. There is, in the whole company of Pre-Existing Condition and most concertedly in the group of As, a communal solidarity with Ireland being explicitly offered. Theres also the implicationor rather the demonstrable truththat A could be anyone, of any age. One in three women, the show reminds us, experiences abuse. One in three worlds has been broken and must be slowly reassembled, day by day and moment by moment. A is everywhere.

I mean, like, what do you want? people keep asking A. Do you want revenge or something?; You should probably just move on. Let it go; Its still really consuming you. Part of Irelands insight as a writer is that these questions, these observations, even when they sting or feel bluntly insensitive, are never played for cheap laughs. Theres humor in Pre-Existing Condition, but not at the expense of the people A interacts with, even when theyre guys who say things like, Can I ask you something, like, as a woman?  Like would you rather have a guy whos just not aggressive, like, ever? Aand Irelandmay well be trying to regain some sense of her own power, but her project isnt retributive. Its a search, not a solid answer but a series of questions. What the fuck do I do with this? A asks herself. Shes aware, deep in her gut, that the looming shadow isnt actually her abuser, but the feelings of worthlessness to which he kicked open the door. Its not about him. Its about you, says B as As therapist. Even more penetrating is C as a younger friend of As who looks up to her artistically. When, on a coffee catch-up, A mumbles that she doesnt really feel that successful, C blinks with smiling incredulity. Like, is this sort of a thing with you? she asks brightly, Not valuing your achievements?

Maslany is heartbreaking at the center of Irelands story; you can see her body, sometimes tensely twisted and sometimes crumpled in dull exhaustion, working through a poison its trying to expel. Whatever Dizzia, Chan, OConnell, and Gevinson bring to the role, theres a sense that theyll be bolstered by Maslanys performance, and that she in turn is drawing strength from the knowledge that theyre right behind her. You have some nice friends, Connorss D tells A at one point. Perhaps thats what you do with this: Find those friends, take their hands, tell your story.

Dark Noon is at St. Anns Warehouse through July 7.

Pre-Existing Condition is at the Connelly Theater Upstairs through August 3.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Paris is instigating yet another round of armed conflict in the South Caucasus by taking a new approach, Spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said, commenting on the contract for the supply of military equipment from France to Armenia, Trend reports.

"Here is another step. We have talked about this, and here you see confirmation once again. The policymakers of France are guided not by the interests of Armenia or any specific nation.

In order to accomplish its conjunctural goals, Paris aims to take advantage of preexisting disputes and conflicts inside and between nations. The conjunctural goals imply not only the personal interests of the Elysee Palace but also France as a proponent of NATO ideology. I think this is how one should approach this," she explained.

To note, on June 18, French Defense Minister Sebastian Lecornu and his Armenian counterpart Suren Papikyan signed an agreement on the sale of the Caesar artillery system to Armenia. The issue is about the supply of 109 Caesar self-propelled artillery units of the new generation.

Caesar artillery systems are produced by the French defense industrial company Nexter.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Senate gives green light to Premierato bill.

The Italian senate on Tuesday approved the right-wing government's controversial bill to reform Italy's constitution to allow for the direct election of a prime minister.

The so-called Premierato constitutional reform bill, pushed by premier Giorgia Meloni, was passed by 109 votes to 77 and will now pass to the lower house.

Meloni's proposal would see Italian voters directly elect prime ministers for five-year terms, with the coalition that supports the winning candidate given at least 55 per cent of seats in both houses of parliament to ensure a workable majority.

Following the vote, opposition centre-left senators held up copies of the constitution while senators on the right applauded and waved Italian tricolour flags.

The senate vote fell short of the two-thirds majority required for constitutional changes by both houses of parliament in Italy. The bill is not expected to obtain a majority in the lower house either, meaning that it will have to be put to a referendum.

Meloni claims that the Premierato would lead to stronger, more stable governments and end revolving door administrations in Italy which has had 68 governments since 1946.

However the opposition parties and critics of the plan say it could strip the parliament and president of important powers and could lead to a more authoritarian government.

The current system sees parties sit down for talks to form a government after a general election, with the ruling majority proposing an agreed prime ministerial candidate for approval from the Italian president.

Opposition parties demonstrated in Rome on Tuesday against the constitutional reform and another contentious move giving Italian regions greater autonomy, a plan that sparked a brawl in the parliament last week and which critics say could worsen Italy's north-south divide.
A non-commercial art space fostering creativity, community, and cultural exchange.

A supernova is the brightest moment of a dying star; its goal is to create and inspire hope around it, states Gabriele Giugni, co-founder of the non-profit organization Spazio Supernova.

Spazio Supernova is not a gallery of art; rather, it is a space for those to contemplate various art forms and think creatively. This site-specific three-year art experiment will conclude after its third year. Supernova officially launched in Piazza of Santa Maria in Trastevere in November 2023, having a soft opening in June 2023, but no formal grand opening. Thus, the closing of this space is slated to be in November 2026, with a live countdown for this date displayed on their website.

The project was founded by the Fondazione Fons Olei, where Mr. Giugni serves as the President and current artistic director. A photographer by training, he studied at the International Center for Photography in New York, Giugni has taken a step back from his photographic endeavors to focus and work on the Spazio Supernova project.

Unlike typical art galleries, nothing is sold or bought; the goal is specifically to create a cultural safe space for the community. Art at the Supernova is presented in many different forms, such as literature, cinema, photography, music, speeches, social events, and even healing and learning sessions.

In November of last year, there was an event that provided children the opportunity to select a flower of their liking. They were then asked to observe the flower and were taught watercolor techniques to paint it. In May of this year, more workshops invited children to draw their emotions and create portraits of their family members.

Supernova is not a closed space but constantly open, so the process is as important as the results, describes Gabriele Giugni. This tries to be a lab [while] at the same time, a refuge and a place where you can talk and be listened to. They aim to provoke more questions than answers, encouraging those to ask what, why, and how instead of giving direct solutions. Gabriele states that they dont say this is art  rather, what are the right questions and what is the reasoning.

The space is creating a connection between natural and social systems, establishing a cultural and alternative environment. The goal of this project is to foster intellectual richness, awareness, and empathy. It not only inspires the community but also is inspired by and dependent on the community.

Spazio Supernova has become a cultural refuge for all. Gabriele describes it as "a place to lick your wounds and not have to worry about buying a spritz." Situated in a location that might typically be a restaurant or store in one of the most important plazas, they have instead created a safe haven where the community can freely express themselves. They think outside the box, challenging and redefining what the box is, who decides its boundaries, and when it changes.

The space has hosted an array of events, each one contributing to the overarching goal of fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange surrounding art, which is lacking in Rome according to Giugni. The variety of activities ensures that there is something for everyone, making art and cultural dialogue accessible to all.

By removing the commercial aspect of art, they have created a unique environment where the focus is on experience, learning, and connection. This could be a model that serves as an inspiration for future projects, demonstrating the power that art holds to bring people together and create meaningful change.

Spazio Supernova is more than just an art space; it is a vibrant community hub that encourages exploration, dialogue, and healing. Its founders vision of creating a non-commercial, inclusive space has proved that art can be a powerful tool for social cohesion and even a form of personal growth. As the countdown to November 2026 continues, Spazio Supernova will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Trastevere and beyond.
Members of the Hungarian-Azerbaijan inter-parliamentary friendship group of the Hungarian National Assembly got acquainted with the traces of Armenian vandalism in Aghdam, as well as the restoration and construction works carried out by the Azerbaijani state after the city was liberated from occupation.

Azernews reports, citing AzerTag that the delegation visited the Agdam Juma mosque, and then looked at the remains of the buildings destroyed by the Armenians in the central street of the city. The employee of the special representation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan informed them about the devastation and acts of vandalism, including the destruction of cultural, historical, and religious monuments, caused by the occupying Armenia in the territory of Aghdam region for 30 years. It was reported that the Armenian vandals looted and destroyed the city of Aghdam as well as other cities and villages they occupied. All houses, social facilities and farms were destroyed. After the victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, large-scale reconstruction works have been started in the territories freed from occupation.

Later, the delegation that came to the camp of the President's special delegation was given detailed information about the projects implemented and planned in accordance with the Master Plan of Agdam city.

The guests were accompanied by MP Elman Nasirov.




Photo: Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The First Deputy Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan  Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General Karim Valiyev has started his official visit to Serbia at the invitation of his Serbian counterpart Milan Mojsilovic, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry.

First, the monument of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev in Tasmajdan Park in Belgrade was visited, a wreath was laid, and his memory was honored.

Then the statue of Serbian poet and writer Milorad Pavic was visited, flowers were laid, and honor was shown.

The General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces hosted the official welcome ceremony for Valiyev.

After the ceremonial passage in front of the honor guard, the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Serbia were played.

Valiyev had a meeting with his Serbian counterpart, during which they discussed the prospects for the development of military cooperation and exchanged a wide range of opinions on a number of issues of common interest.

Then the Azerbaijani official met with the Minister of Defense of Serbia Bratislav Gasic.

The meeting with the Serbian minister discussed cooperation between the two countries in the military, military-technical, and military-educational fields.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan Kamil Khasiyev also took part in the meetings.

The visit of the Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army to Serbia continues.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Five years ago there was an air of immense anticipation as Waterfords first MEP was returned in the direct elections for the European Parliament in the Ireland South constituency.

Then Green Party Senator Grace OSullivan was Waterfords only candidate standing in those elections.

This time, similarly, she flew the white and blue flag of the Deise solo, but the tide remained out for Grace, one of a family of eight who grew up in Tramore  and for whom the environment has been close to her heart from her youngest years.

A formidable candidate, she held on until the 18th count at Nemo Rangers count centre in Cork, but while the transfers were substantial for her, they were not enough to bring her past Kathleen Funchion of Sinn Fein and Cynthia Ni Mhurchu of Fianna Fail.

The only other candidate eliminated after OSullivan was outgoing MEP Mick Wallace of Independents4Change. She had totted up a respectable 69,197 votes before succumbing to the vagaries of politics and an electorate that stretches from the Wexford coast all the way to the Atlantic seaboard in Co Kerry.

It was one of many falls for the Green Party across the local and European elections. Outgoing MEP Ciaran Cuffe lost his seat in the Dublin constituency, while, in Waterford, both Green Party councillors lost their seats, Metropolitan Mayor Jody Power and Cristiona Kiely, who had been coopted into Marc O Cathasaighs place after his election to Dail Eireann. O Cathasaigh topped the poll in the 2019 local elections, riding into power on the so-called green wave.

OSullivan remained resolute in her commitment to her Green Party political credentials as she conceded defeat. 40 plus years of campaigning through rough seas and calm waters, headwinds and tailwinds, good days and bad. The fight continues. Eternally grateful for everyone who put their trust in me. Thank you, she said on the X (Twitter) social media platform.

On a personal level for OSullivan, it is an immense loss to have spent five years grafting in Europe on a job she is passionate about, all the while juggling family and community commitments at home in Tramore. But this is the same woman who went to sea all those years ago with Greenpeace, travelling from the Arctic to the Antarctic.

She joined the high-profile Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior in 1985, intent on stopping nuclear tests in the Pacific. Tragedy struck when, on the night of July 10, 1985, a terrorist attack against the ship resulted in the explosion of two mines, killing the ships photographer, Fernando Pereira. It was later discovered that the mines had been planted by two members of the French secret service, the DGSE, both of whom were sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Graces resolve only strengthened and she continued to work aboard Greenpeace ships, all the while furthering her knowledge and education.

She will regroup after her current defeat. In the meantime, the issues around climate change, on which she has been so vociferous, have not gone away. Waterford and further afield will continue to watch closely and with interest what OSullivan does next.
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 A century ago this month, Franz Kafka died of tuberculosis at the age of 40. He had published only a handful of stories and novellas in his lifetime, none of them more than 60 pages long. His startling fictions had earned him a small circle of admirers in his native Prague, but had made little splash in the wider world. When Kafkas illness became terminal, he made preparations to erase himself from literary history. He left written instructions for all his unpublished papers  including three virtually complete novels  to be burned unread and to the last page. As for his published works, Kafka ordered that they must not be reprinted and handed down to posterity. On the contrary, he wrote, should they disappear altogether that would please me best. Franz Kafka died aged 40 on June 3, 1924. Credit: Alamy Fortunately for the world, Kafkas literary executor, Max Brod, disobeyed his late friends instructions. Far from disappearing after his death, Kafka became recognised as the 20th centurys most prophetic writer. Indeed, posterity has paid him the greatest tribute a writer can receive. His name has become an adjective. In more than a hundred languages there is a word that corresponds to our word Kafkaesque. Even people who havent read a line of Kafka know what that word means. Modern life is full of Kafkaesque moments. Trying to speak to a live human being on a helpline can be a Kafkaesque experience. The Robodebt affair was deeply Kafkaesque. Arguably, the world is more Kafkaesque now than it was in Kafkas own day. The secret of Kafkas enduring relevance is that his fiction resonates on two levels. First it affects you privately. Kafka taps straight into your unconscious, in a way no other writer does. Reading him, you get the sense that he has eavesdropped on your strangest dreams.

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Above and beyond that, Kafka seemed to tap into the unconscious mind of history itself. Somehow, by writing about his own worst dreams, he forecast the great public nightmares of the 20th century  the deranged, murderous bureaucracies of Nazi Germany and Soviet Russia. A Franz Kafka sculpture showing the writer riding a gigantic, empty coat, installed in Prague in 2002. Credit: Getty Images George Orwell earned his own adjective  Orwellian  for anatomising the methods and psychology of Stalinism. But Orwell made his diagnosis on the basis of historical facts. He wrote 1984 in 1948, when the evidence about Stalinism was largely in. Kafka achieved a far spookier feat. He described the 20th centurys terror states before they even existed. When Kafka died, Adolf Hitler was still nine years away from becoming chancellor of Germany. Joseph Stalin had only just assumed power in the USSR. And yet you could swear, when reading Kafkas eerie fictions, that he had observed the workings of modern totalitarianism from the inside. His most hallucinatory discoveries, said the critic George Steiner, turned out to be the grimmest reportage, but reportage before the facts. The Franz Kafka Museum in Prague. Credit: iStock How did Kafka achieve this feat of clairvoyance? For a start, he wasnt like everybody else. He was an acutely neurotic man. He is absolutely incapable of living, said his lover Milena Jesenska. Hes exposed to all those things were protected against. Hes like a naked man among a multitude who are dressed.

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One thing Kafka was nakedly exposed to was the authority of his domineering father. Hermann Kafka was a sturdy and successful Jewish businessman who found his sickly son a grave disappointment. As a child, Franz bore the brunt of his fathers tyranny. Outside the home, he was subjected to the antisemitism that was ominously routine in Europe at the time. Trained as a lawyer, Kafka worked as a paper-pushing civil servant by day and pursued his literary ambitions by night. He wrote in German, the official language of Austro-Hungarian Prague. Franz Kafka in childhood. Credit: Getty Images Kafka was morbidly self-critical and fanatically choosy about what he published. He wrote the best part of three strikingly original novels  Amerika, The Trial and The Castle  but never finished them to his satisfaction. He considered them bungled pieces of work. He threatened to burn the manuscripts, but never got around to it. Instead he left the task to Brod, who wisely failed to perform it. Soon after Kafkas death, Brod licked the unfinished novels into shape and had them published in German editions. English translations followed in the 1930s. Arguably, the world is more Kafkaesque now than it was in Kafkas own day. In The Trial and The Castle, Kafkas vision received its fullest expression. In both novels, a defenceless individual is progressively crushed by the weight of an irrational, labyrinthine bureaucracy. Here is the famous opening sentence of The Trial: Someone must have been telling lies about Joseph K., for without having done anything wrong he was arrested one fine morning.

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In deadpan prose, Kafka plunges you straight into the middle of a living nightmare. The nightmare deepens as the novel proceeds. Since Joseph K. has been arrested, it follows that he must be tried. Everything unfolds with the logic of a bad dream. As K. desperately produces his identity papers, he sees that the arresting officers have sat down and started helping themselves to his uneaten breakfast. Its a typically surreal Kafka touch. And yet such surreal scenes soon became the stuff of everyday reality all over Europe. Give us a man and well make a case, Stalins secret police used to say. When they came to take people away, they would soften the blow by offering them a lolly from a box kept in their pockets. Is it possible to be so sensitive that you can foretell the future? Not quite. But Kafkas temperament made him hyper-susceptible to human cruelty and mediocrity and brutality. And those were precisely the elements that Stalinism and Nazism  the systems that were about to immiserate half of Europe  were made of. In Kafkas novels the state is always right, the individual always wrong. A similar dynamic had governed Kafkas childhood. The father, even at his most arbitrary, was always right. The son, by definition, was always in the wrong. Hermann Kafka had zero sympathy for his sons literary ambitions. He wanted him to marry, work in the family business, and generally behave like a normal bourgeois person. Max Brod, who chose not to burn Franz Kafkas fiction. Credit: Kafka failed on all counts. His fathers disapproval left him with a deeply ingrained sense of inferiority and shame. In 1919, at the age of 36, he itemised his grievances against his father in a long unsent letter, posthumously published as Letter to My Father. In one telling passage, Kafka described an episode from his childhood. One night, lying in bed, the young Franz had whined for a glass of water. His fathers response was to pull him out of bed, carry him out to the balcony, and lock him outside in his nightshirt.

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I daresay I was quite obedient afterwards, Kafka wrote. But it did me inner harm  For years afterward I suffered from the tormenting fancy that a huge man, my father, the ultimate authority, could come, almost for no reason at all, and take me out of bed in the night. That primal sense of dread would echo through all Kafkas fiction. Joseph K. isnt the only Kafka protagonist to suffer a sudden violation in the privacy of his bed. Gregor Samsa, the unfortunate hero of Kafkas story The Metamorphosis, wakes up one morning to find himself transformed in his bed into a monstrous insect. Loading A reader once asked Kafka if hed done extensive research in a lunatic asylum. Just in my own, Kafka replied. His sense of inner harm enabled him to imagine, and unwittingly predict, the rise of entire states dedicated to the persecution and extermination of the individual. In a way its unfair to Kafka to read his books through the lens of the barbarities that came after him. His best work is touching, funny and humane. To speak of him in the same breath as Hitler and Stalin is to make his stuff sound far grimmer than it really is. Still, the historical resonances of Kafkas work cant be ignored. When the Nazis came to power, they banned and incinerated his books. They would have incinerated Kafka himself, had he still been alive. All three of his sisters were murdered in concentration camps. After the war, his work was banned behind the Iron Curtain, including in his native Prague. Most writers want their work to be universal. Kafka was terrified by that prospect. In what kind of world would his hellish visions come to seem representative? His friend Gustav Janouch, who wrote the book Conversations with Kafka, once put it to Kafka that his work might be a mirror of tomorrow.

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Announcing his forthcoming stadium tour last November, Jerry Seinfeld said: I have loved Australia since my first tour there in 1998, and I cannot wait to come back to visit some of the greatest comedy fans in the world.

Three shows into that tour, he might now be having second thoughts.

Jerry Seinfeld has again been heckled by pro-Palestinian protesters on his Australian tour. Credit: The New York Times

For the second time this week, the 70-year-old US comedian became embroiled on Tuesday night in a heated exchange with pro-Palestinian protesters at a stand-up comedy show in Australia.

The exchanges at Sydneys 9000-seat Aware Super Theatre were, like Sunday nights events, captured in videos posted online by the Australian Jewish Association, which claimed Australia is earning a shocking reputation for antisemitism around the world, and by pro-Palestinian activists.
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 Here was a story begging to be investigated on film. Belgian director Joachim Lafosses A Silence is based on the real-life case of Victor Hissel, a lawyer who represented the distraught parents of two of the children raped and murdered by serial killer Marc Dutroux. In a bizarre twist, Hissel himself was then charged with possession and use of child pornography. It was a huge news story in the mid-2000s, but Lafosse saw that there was a truth to it that could be reached only through fiction. With a journalistic account, you dont have real characters, he says when we meet at the San Sebastian Film Festival, where A Silence became the biggest talking point. My job is to write them. Emmanuelle Devos extraordinary performance in A Silence captures a desperate sense of losing control. Credit: Palace Films Lafosse wrote several versions of A Silence, from the points of view of one character after another: the fictionalised barrister, his teenage son and finally, his wife, whose determined, infuriating denial of her husbands crimes is the puzzle at the heart of the film. Daniel Auteuil plays silk Francois Schaar; newcomer Matthieu Galoux plays his troubled son, Raphael, who is about to be expelled from his umpteenth school for truancy; Emmanuelle Devos plays Astrid, Francois wife of 30 years. In an extraordinary performance, she manages to convey with tiny gestures, glances and even the rhythm of her breathing a desperate sense of losing control. A single telephone call  taken in the car as she drives, voices never raised  reveals that, early in her marriage, her celebrated husband abused her younger brother. Her brother now wants to tell the police; he is sick of living with the past. But why do that now, she asks. It was so long ago; Francois apologised! It was a mistake made in the moment. And now he is under so much pressure! But she has inklings, as does the audience, that it is not over; we see Francois pad down to his study in the middle of the night, hear the shrieks emanating from his laptop.

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This is actually the result of a mental construction over 30 years, says Devos, also in San Sebastian. I saw a lot of movies about different stories of this kind of incest, documentaries, and what is incredible is that the mothers ... always react in these astonishing ways. They are always, always in denial. I think you just dont want to see the horror inside your home. Lafosse hopes audiences will empathise with Astrid, who is a product of her class and its anxieties. I abhor the bourgeoisie and their silence, the comfort they choose by being silent instead of speaking the truth, he says. But he does not judge her. It is very easy to condemn a woman who doesnt speak about horrible things for 30 years, but she is also a victim. I prefer to judge the criminal. He compares the crime to a poison that seeps into their lives. That poison was potent enough to deter half-a-dozen actors he approached to play Francois. Each told him it was a great script, but they would never touch it. Then he sent it to Auteuil, who accepted it within 45 minutes of receiving his email. I know that in his life, certain situations and certain people he knows very well are victims, says Lafosse. Auteuils former wife, Emmanuelle Beart, has revealed that she was abused in her early teens by members of her family. The mothers ... are always in denial. I think you just dont want to see the horror inside your home. Emmanuelle Davos Daniel understands it, says Lafosse. In fact, he spoke more to me in defence of Astrid than about his character. Because he knows that his character, the lawyer, wont change. Guys like [that] refuse to change. Their sickness prevents them from asking for help, and they choose the worst way possible. Schaar has the arrogance of wealth, education, position and a conviction that he is always in the right, recognised as a public hero standing up for little people  the murdered children  against the indifference of the state. Auteuil brings with him the real-life authority of his fame, as well as his powers of persuasion as a great actor.

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I was confident Daniel would help us, says Devos. I thought it would make it believable she loved this man more than anything because Daniel is a very seductive person. Writing A Silence consumed Lafosse for eight years. Sticking with a project for so many years always requires a lot of dedication, he says. Writing the screenplay can be all about trying to find the reason why you want to make that film. For much of that time, he couldnt acknowledge that while Hissels case was fascinating, it was his own history that made it so compelling. As he will now say openly, Lafosse was himself a victim of repeated sexual abuse. Like Raphael, he was a teenage school refuser. His initial abuser was a teacher who offered to help him study for his Baccalaureate outside the school system. He was 16. Other men became involved. Director Joachim Lafosse: I understand now why finally I did this movie. Credit: Getty Images Loading In 2008, when he was 33, he made a film called Private Lessons that was drawn directly from his own experience, but he didnt admit that. Nor did anyone ask. There were people who saw it who would have recognised the situation, maybe recognised themselves.

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Once the film was released, they crossed the street when they saw me. Nobody approached me to talk about what I had shown. His own mother, in a way that finds its echo in Astrids quiet desperation, never talked to him about it. A friend warned her against seeing Private Lessons; she avoided it for another seven years. Finally, she saw it and called him. And she was wonderful. She said: I am sorry; I am with you; you are not responsible and I understand very well what has happened. She asked me if I would like to go to the police, but I said no. That I had made a movie, that I had been doing psychoanalysis three times a week for 25 years to understand what had happened to me and that I had thought a lot about it, for me, it was too much. He supposes now that he just didnt have enough courage. Gradually, Lafosse realised that it was the reaction to that film  not least his own reaction  that had led him so inexorably to Hissels story. I understand now why finally I did this movie, he says. It is about the shame  and the consequences of the shame. Every crime, he says, creates its own closed world that locks its initiates into a collective silence. If you speak of financial crime in a bank, there are people who know what was done, a group living with that, outside society. A sort of world within the world. And what I discovered during the shooting with Emmanuelle was that this was about the silence around shame. Why you dont speak, why you dont ask for help. The way that when it first happens, you refuse to believe it. And if, after a long time, you accept what is in front of you, its too late because you didnt speak. Time has passed and now you are the guilty one because you didnt speak. Its a vicious circle. With this film, he has set out to break it. A Silence is in cinemas from June 27, with advance screenings from June 21-23.

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Its an unnerving thing to find oneself agreeing with Pauline Hanson, but here we are.

But at least theres some solace that, in doing so, theres an opportunity to remind our dear readers of the Queensland senators history with satire  and the sheer hypocrisy it exposes.

Pauline Hanson hasnt always been a fan of satire. Just ask Pauline Pantsdown. Credit: Jamie Brown

Late last week, lawyers for Robert Irwin sent a cease-and-desist letter to the production studio behind Hansons Please Explain series, uploaded to her social media. They claimed the latest edition, featuring Irwins likeness  and Bluey, to boot  was defamatory and deceptively used his image.

In response, the One Nation leader told Irwin to lighten up and suggested his late father would have had a good laugh about the whole thing.
Examine, a free weekly newsletter covering science with a sceptical, evidence-based eye, is sent every Tuesday. Youre reading an excerpt  Sign up to get the whole newsletter in your inbox.

Modern medicine stands on the shoulders of Henrietta Lacks, a woman who, in January 1951, presented to Johns Hopkins Hospital for cervical cancer treatment because it was one of the few places in Baltimore that would treat African American patients.

Lacks died shortly after but not before physicians, without her knowledge or consent, harvested a biopsy of her tumour. When researchers cultured the cancerous cells, they found something astonishing: the cells kept replicating.

HeLa cells were the first-ever cell line established outside the body and have underpinned countless medical discoveries since 1951. Credit: AP

The sample became the first immortalised cell line: collections of cells grown outside the body. These cells would become the bedrock of medical research. Before a medicine becomes a miracle drug, for example, its tested on cell lines such as this to gather evidence for safety and efficacy before the research progresses to animal or human trials.
Vandals smashing windows and using flammable liquid to set fires at the office of Jewish Labor MP Josh Burns represent a troubling escalation of radical pro-Palestinian activism in Australia, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says.

Burns said he was worried about the safety of MPs and their staff after his Melbourne inner-city office was targeted at about 3.20am on Wednesday. Police said five people sprayed the St Kilda office with red paint, which has been used across Australia by activists targeting a group of Labor MPs they regard as too close to Israel.

Burns held a press conference on Wednesday morning and said police inspectors found flammable chemicals on the office site. Two small fires were lit: one to the left of the office entrance and another outside the street-facing door to apartments on the floor above the office.

The attackers smashed the front windows and entered the office, the inside of which was sprayed with red paint.
This month a Canadian low-cost airline unveiled a new no frills ultra-basic ticket. Although on closer inspection, no frills feels rather generous. This ticket is so stripped back there is nothing to even embellish with frills. It is a brown rag, tied loosely around the crotch. It gives access to the plane, and little else.

While few Australians are likely to fly with WestJet any time soon (though the airline is useful for cheap domestic flights in Canada), the new ultra-basic ticket is significant in that it is, by my reckoning, the most rudimentary plane ticket ever sold (going just a notch further than JetBlues most basic ticket). And it could well indicate the beginning of a wider trend.

WestJet has taken no-frills tickets to a new level. Credit: iStock

So what do you get, exactly, with an ultra-basic ticket? Hand luggage is not allowed, although one small personal item, such as a camera bag, pet carrier or sports ball is permitted. There is also no flexibility, meaning you cannot change your booking or cancel after 24 hours  not even for a fee.

But wait, theres more. Or rather, less. Selecting your seat will cost you more than usual. If you dont pay, youll automatically be given a seat at the back of the plane. You will receive no points, nor rewards. Adding a check-in bag also costs more than usual. And finally, to rub salt in the wound, you will be the last to board the plane, while the seated passengers chant shame as you skulk, head bowed, clutching a basketball, to row 32.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. On June 19, a telephone conversation took place between the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov and the Deputy Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Muhammad Ishaq Dar, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry says, Trend reports.

According to the information, the ministers highly appreciated the existing ties of strategic cooperation between the two friendly and brotherly countries and emphasized the need to further deepen cooperation in many areas

Along with this, the results of the official visit of Minister Jeyhun Bayramov to Pakistan at the end of last month and the implementation of the agreements reached and future plans were discussed

During the telephone conversation, there were also exchanged views on other bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Singapore: China has renamed at least 630 villages in Xinjiang, erasing references to Uyghur culture in what human rights advocates say is a systematic propaganda rebrand designed to stamp out the Muslim minority groups identity.

In a research brief released by Human Rights Watch on Wednesday, the organisation said it had identified a mass renaming process by Chinese authorities in the countrys north-western region, with Happiness, Unity, and Harmony among the most common replacement names for villages.

Uyghur protesters hold placards outside the Adelaide Zoo earlier this week during Chinese Premier Li Qiangs four-day visit to Australia. Credit: Getty Images

The renaming involved deleting references to religion, Uyghur history and cultural practices.

The report found, for example, that since 2009 all but six of the 47 villages in Xinjiang with the word mazar (shrine) in their names had been renamed by 2023, while 25 of the 28 villages that had a reference to Hoja (religious teacher) in 2016 had been renamed.
Seoul: Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un took turns driving each other around in a Russian-built Aurus limousine after the Kremlin said Putin had gifted one of the luxury vehicles to Kim.

In a carefully staged public relations opportunity held amid tight security, the two leaders used the moment to show how close their working relationship has become during what was a pomp-filled visit to Pyongyang by Putin, his first in nearly a quarter of a century.

Video released by Russian state TV showed Putin jumping behind the wheel of the black armoured Aurus, which is his official presidential car back in Russia, with Kim getting in the passenger seat.

Kim, who is believed to be a keen automobile enthusiast and who gave the Russian leader a pair of Pungsan dogs in return, is later shown driving Putin back.
Riyadh: Hundreds of visitors have reportedly died during the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca amid scorching heat.

At least 550 people have died on the Hajj pilgrimage, diplomats told French news outlet Agence France Presse. Three hundred and twenty-three of the dead were Egyptians, most of whom perished due to heat-related illness, AFP reported, citing two Arab diplomats.

Muslim pilgrims use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun as they arrive to cast stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil, the last rite of the annual Hajj. Credit: AP

In addition, 35 Tunisian citizens have died, Tunisian news agency Tunis Afrique Presse said.

Stampedes, tent fires and other accidents have caused hundreds of deaths during Hajj in the past 30 years. This years pilgrimage began on Friday.
New York: Noam Chomskys wife, Valeria Wasserman Chomsky, says reports on Tuesday (Brazil time) that the famed linguist and activist had died are untrue.

No, it is false, she wrote on Tuesday in response to an emailed query from The Associated Press.

Chomsky reveals he has voted Republican in the past but says the party is now a dangerous insurgency. Credit: Getty

Chomsky, 95, had been hospitalised in Brazil while recovering from a stroke suffered a year ago, Valeria Chomsky told the AP last week.

But the Beneficencia Portuguesa hospital in Sao Paulo said in a statement that Chomsky was discharged on Tuesday to continue his treatment at home.
The World Customs Organization (WCO), with the financial support of the Customs Cooperation Fund  China, and the technical assistance of two WCO experts from Germany and Turkiye, organized a Regional Workshop on Free Zones for the Europe Region in Skopje, North Macedonia from 10 to 14 June 2024. 21 participants from 14 Member administrations attended the event, which aimed to support Customs operations in Free Zones and provide capacity building resources for Members in the region.

The mission began with opening remarks from the WCO Regional Office for Capacity Building for the WCO Europe Region, Macedonian Customs, and Regional Training Centre in Skopje, highlighting the economic impact of Free Zones and the importance of Customs involvement in the sustainable development of Free Zones.

The workshop covered key elements of the Revised Kyoto Convention, the WCO Practical Guidance on Free Zones, and the SAFE Framework of Standards for adequate Customs procedures in Free Zones. These include Customs involvement in Free Zones, effective Customs on-site check and audit, the use of data and technologies, the origin determination of goods, and the expansion of the concept of Authorized Economic Operator to Free Zone stakeholders. Participants from Member administrations shared their national experiences and practices in Free Zones and discussed the benefits of secure and sustainable Free Zones from the Customs perspective.

Some of the highlights of the workshop were a session with the Free Zones stakeholders in North Macedonia and a study visit to a Technological Industrial Development Zone in Skopje. Speakers from the Free Zone Authority and the private sector operating in the zone explained the economic benefits and emphasized the smooth cooperation with Customs in the zone.

This mission provided a valuable opportunity for participants to better understand the situation of Free Zones in Europe and to enhance their capacity on Customs operations in close cooperation with the Free Zones stakeholders for the competitiveness and sustainability of Free Zones.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The next conference of the Baku Initiative Group, dedicated to the fight against colonialism, will be held tomorrow, June 20, at the UN headquarters in New York, Trend reports.

The conference will be held as part of the annual meeting of the special committee - C24, created in connection with the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonized Countries and Peoples.

The conference, entitled Towards Independence and Fundamental Freedoms: C24's Role in Ending Colonialism, will bring together officials from the territories colonized by France and the Netherlands, as well as representatives from Corsica, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Maohi Nui (French Polynesia), Kanaki (New Caledonia), as well as Saint Martin, Bonaire, and more than 40 officials, leaders of independence movements, decolonization experts, MPs and researchers from the United States, France, Brazil, the Union of the Gambian Islands and the Netherlands.

Unlike international conferences organized by the Baku Initiative Group earlier, representatives of Saint Martin and Bonaire, which are colonies of the Netherlands, will participate and speak for the first time in this event.

At the conference, New Caledonia's Foreign Minister will inform the world community on recent developments in his country, including the atrocities committed by the French government against the Kanak people.
From 11 to 12 June 2024, Tunisian Customs, with the support of the WCO Anti-Corruption and Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) Programme, experts from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Niger Customs, held a workshop dedicated to consolidating its Next Generation Network (NGN) focusing on the challenges of fighting corruption and promoting integrity within Customs services.

Bringing together more than 25 civil servants, managers and senior executives, including the two co-chairs and members of the Tunisian Customs Next Generation Network, discussions focused on the rules of good governance of the Tunisian Customs Next Generation Network, outcomes of activities already conducted, and plans for those coming over the next year. Particular attention was paid to the importance of a written mandate to optimise the operation of the NGN, particularly by formalising the method of appointing members. The group also discussed the frequency of meetings between the NGN members and the relationship between the NGN and the Administrations senior management.

In the coming weeks and months, the NGNs activities will focus on informing staff about the project to modernise human resources management, an awareness-raising campaign about the integrity approach at some representative Tunisian Customs sites (ports, offices and agencies) and among representatives of the private sector. The NGN will also be involved in drawing up a code of ethics and good conduct for Customs officers.

The Comptroller General of the Tunisian Customs welcomed the high level of commitment shown by the participants and reiterated the importance of the NGN in making the changes underway successful and meeting the challenges of the fight against corruption. She also highlighted the importance of the sustainable development of the integrity approach within the Tunisian Customs, taking into account good relations with the various stakeholders and players in the Tunisian private sector.

The WCO A-CIP Programme provides technical assistance and capacity-building support to WCO Member administrations implementing integrity-related initiatives in line with the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration. For more information, please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The fifth meeting of the EU-Azerbaijan Security Dialogue was held on 13 June in Brussels, Trend reports, citing Delegation of the European Union to the Azerbaijan.

The participants had an open and frank exchange on the state of the bilateral relations between the EU and Azerbaijan, as well as on topical foreign and security policy issues of mutual interest.

The participants also touched upon the process of normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as broader regional security issues. In this context, the importance of fostering regional stability and sustainable connectivity were mentioned. Azerbaijan underlined the bilateral nature of dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The EU stressed its continued support for the peace process, with a view to a secure, stable, peaceful and prosperous South Caucasus for the benefit of all people living in the region.

The role of Azerbaijan as a reliable and important energy partner and its importance in the further development of the Middle Corridor was highlighted.

The EU's support for humanitarian demining and mine victim assistance in Azerbaijan was appreciated. It was stated that under the EU Team Europe Initiative and other programs, further assistance to Azerbaijans mine action program will continue. The Azerbaijani side also reiterated its interest in exploring possible cooperation with the EU under the European Peace Facility (EPF).

In conclusion of the meeting, the EU and Azerbaijan agreed to continue regular exchanges on foreign and security policy issues. They also underlined the importance of meaningful work on all relevant strands of bilateral cooperation under the EU-Azerbaijan Partnership and Cooperation Agreement.

The meeting was co-chaired by Enrique Mora, Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs at the European External Action Service, and Hikmet Hajiyev, Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. From June 9 to 13, experts from Allied Air Command Ramstein, Joint Forces Command Naples, NATO and Azerbaijan assisted the Qatar Emiri Air Forces in evaluating the level of interoperability of a C-130 Air Transport Unit in the framework of Alliance operations, NATO's Joint Air Command said in a statement, Trend reports.

According to the information, Two of the units Hercules C-130 transport aircraft had been declared to the NATO pool of forces in 2022 to potentially support Alliance missions as part of the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI).

It is noted that the ICI is a partnership framework that aims to contribute to long-term global and regional security by offering non-NATO countries in the broader Middle East region the opportunity to cooperate with NATO.

The evaluation team consisting of 15 Qataris, 15 NATO and three Azerbaijani evaluators provided a challenging scenario testing the units ability to conduct mission under different threat conditions  besides outside temperatures of more than 40 degrees Celsius.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. European Commissioner for Climate Action Wopke Hoekstra will visit Azerbaijan tomorrow, the European Commission said in a statement, Trend reports.

According to the information he will be in Baku to meet with national authorities and civil society and advance preparations for the forthcoming COP29 UN Climate Change Conference to be hosted in the country in November.

"While in Baku, Commissioner Hoekstra will meet with COP29 President-designate and Azerbaijani Minister for Ecology and Natural Resources, Mukhtar Babayev and the COP29 Presidency team. He will also hold bilateral meetings with the Energy Minister, Parviz Shahbazov, and with the Foreign Affairs Minister, Jeyhun Bayramov. He will also have an exchange with representatives from civil society in Azerbaijan.

This trip takes place right after the Bonn Climate Conference held from 3 to 13 June, in which delegates from across the globe had important discussions on the follow-up to the first Global Stocktake of the Paris Agreement agreed at COP28, the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance and the future Nationally Determined Contributions - all vital issues for COP29", the statement says.
High Court Reporters

A dispute over a 35 million office plan for Cherrywood, south Dublin, between companies in the Johnny Ronan group a developer has been referred to arbitration by the president of the High Court.

DLR Properties Ltd brought proceedings against RGRE Devco 4 Ltd (RGRE 4) and Ronan Group Real Estate Ltd seeking declarations that a development agreement between the parties was validly terminated as a result of breaches by the defendants.

DLR, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Council, also seeks damages for alleged slander of title and defamation over statements from the Ronan Group website which state or imply the defendants have any legal or equitable title or interest in the planned office site.

On Tuesday, Mr Justice David Barniville appointed an arbitrator to deal with all but the alleged defamation and slander of title and related aspects of the case following an application from Marcus Dowling SC, for DLR.

Mr Dowling said effectively the parties had agreed that the plenary aspects of the dispute should go to arbitration.

The planned office site is 1.3 acres of an overall 13.3 acre site in Cherrywood, 12 acres of which is zoned for town centre development.

DLR says it entered into an agreement in May 2019 in which DLR would transfer the 12 acres to RGRE 4 in return for which that defendant was required to construct on the remaining 1.3acres a 145,000sq ft office building at a cost (in 2019) of more than 35 million.

DLR, which is trying to sell the office site, says the defendants breached that obligation and have made false statements which will cause serious concern among prospective bidders and frustrate or delay any sale.

The defendants strongly deny the claims.
Eoin Reynolds

Two men wanted in Northern Ireland to face charges relating to the murder of an RUC officer nearly 50 years will argue that a request for their extradition is an abuse of process, the High Court heard this morning.

John Edward McNicholl (72) of Newmills, Letterkenny, County Donegal and Seamus Christopher O'Kane (73) of Scalestown, Dunshaughlin, County Meath are wanted in the UK.

They face charges arising from an investigation into the murder of 25-year-old Constable Robert John McPherson in County Derry on July 26th 1975 and the attempted murder of a second constable.

Mr McNicholl is charged with murdering Constable McPherson and attempted murder, while Mr O'Kane is charged with possession of firearms, including an RUC-issued firearm taken during the ambush on Constable McPherson.

At the High Court on Wednesday morning, Mark Lynam SC, for Mr McNicholl, said his client has been in Ireland since 2003 but for reasons unknown, the UK made no effort to seek his surrender until now. Mr Lynam said he will be arguing that this is a "significant abuse of process".

John Berry BL, for Mr O'Kane, said he will also be making an objection on grounds of an abuse of process. Mr Lynam asked for time to put together all points of objection. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath adjourned the matter until July 10 for an update. A hearing will take place some time after that.

Independent TD for Donegal Thomas Pringle was present in court this morning. Mr Pringle put up an independent surety on behalf of Mr McNicholl at a previous court hearing.

Warrants for the arrest of both men were issued following a request by the Northern Ireland authorities earlier this year as part of an ongoing investigation into Constable McPherson's murder.

Constable McPherson was from Leck, outside Coleraine in Co Derry. He was shot dead in an INLA ambush in Dungiven Main Street around midday.

He was hit by a single shot when he and a colleague were ambushed as they investigated a report of a suspect car. His fellow officer was hit multiple times but survived.

Both Mr McNicholl and Mr O'Kane face four charges relating to the possession of explosives and firearms on February 16th 1976 at Garvagh, County Derry. The court heard that an RUC-issued firearm retrieved at that location had been taken during the ambush on Constable McPherson.

The extradition warrant relating to Mr O'Kane states that on May 5, 1976 he and others escaped from custody at the Maze prison in Northern Ireland prior to a decision being made to prosecute him for the four offences.

At a previous hearing of the High Court Detective Garda Tony Keane of the Garda Extradition Unit said that following a search of the premises at Garvagh in 1976, the RUC recovered two electric detonators, two improvised pressure mat switches, two Walther pistols, one Browning pistol, a 0.22 rifle, a Remington shotgun and 104 rounds of ammunition.

Detective Keane said the warrant issued by the Northern Irish authorities states that Mr O'Kane and two other males were found hiding in an upstairs bedroom in the property and were arrested.

The warrant continues that Mr O'Kane was interviewed on February 17 1976, where he made a full admission to possessing the explosive substances, firearms and ammunition recovered from the property at Brockaghboy in Garvagh.

Both men are on bail.
Sean McCarthaigh

A former Irish employee of an Israeli tech firm who was unfairly fired from her job after calling Israel a terrorist state on social media, has claimed she feels blacklisted from working in the tech sector over the controversy.

Courtney Carey was sacked from her position with Wix Online Platforms, where she had worked for four and a half years, on October 23rd 2023 for alleged gross misconduct.

At a hearing of the Workplace Relations Commission in Dublin on Wednesday, the company conceded that its dismissal of Ms Carey had been procedurally unfair.

Wix, an Israeli multinational which employs around 500 people in its Dublin office, provides a platform for building websites.

WRC adjudication officer, Marie Flynn, directed that only evidence about the level of losses be awarded to Ms Carey should be heard and that there should be no discussion about the substantive issue.

She acknowledged that her ruling might be very difficult for the complainant.

At one stage she interrupted a line of questioning by Ms Careys legal representatives when they attempted to refer to Wixs chief executive commenting on the complainants dismissal in a podcast.

Ms Careys solicitor, Barry Crushell, acknowledged that the WRC hearing was not a forum for a discussion about international affairs.

However, Mr Crushnell observed that there was a very public nature to his clients dismissal coupled with comments made by Wix management.

In posts and comments on LinkedIn, Ms Carey described Israel as a terrorist state and criticised the indiscriminate bombing of Gaza by Israel.

Wixs chief operations and president, Nir Zohar, explained last year that the company had decided to part ways with an employee after it had been bombarded with messages from Israeli employees who sent screenshots of Ms Careys post.

Individual viewpoints

The controversy prompted the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheal Martin, to claim her dismissal was unacceptable as employees should be allowed their individual viewpoints.

Counsel for Ms Carey, Cillian McGovern BL, told the WRC that his client was only looking for what was just and equitable in damages.

The WRC heard that the complainant had recently begun her first job since being fired from Wix with a temporary contract as a clerk in a customer service role with An Post.

Mr McGovern said Ms Carey was on a salary of  25,000 in her new position which was considerably less than her salary of 40,000 with Wix.

He said she had not stopped looking for new employment opportunities since taking up her new job.

Ms Carey (27) from Clondalkin, Dublin gave evidence that she had been looking for new roles on websites like jobs.ie and through informal meetings through LinkedIn since her dismissal.

However, she was unsuccessful in finding any position on the same pay scale or level as her role with Wix.

I felt I was discriminated against based on the media coverage, said Ms Carey.

She claimed she had received no response to most job applications despite having the relevant qualifications and experience.

It was like I was blacklisted from the tech sector. There were multiple tweets, LinkedIn posts, all within that circle regarding me as a person who supports terrorism, said Ms Carey.

She continued: I felt it was incredibly difficult to have a conversation with people and dispute the claims made about me online. It obviously damaged my character.

I would have great interviews, conversations with people and as soon as my previous employment was brought up, there were what I would assume to be background checks on me  every line went cold, said Ms Carey.

I started to feel I was never going to get a job in the sector again because of what happened, she said.

Ms Carey recalled she was contacted by one recruitment agency, CPL, but when she confirmed that she had been dismissed from her previous job, she never heard from them again.

She told the WRC that she had applied directly to An Garda Siochana as an emergency call operator but her application did not progress further, while she had also applied for lower jobs like a bartender.

Financial losses

Asked about financial losses suffered as a result of her dismissal, Ms Carey said she had been unable to afford her 1,800 monthly rent on a studio apartment and had to move in with a relative.

It was incredibly difficult. I really suffered, she added.

Under-cross examination by counsel for Wix, Rosemary Mallon BL, she agreed that she had applied for about 60 jobs since her dismissal.

Ms Mallon suggested that applying for an average of 2-3 jobs per week was insufficient mitigation and that there were a hell of a lot more positions that the complainant could have applied for.

However, Ms Carey retorted that there were far fewer roles for her area of expertise as a team leader.

The WRC heard she had applied for around 14 jobs since taking up her new position with An Post.

Ms Mallon observed that the complainant had received a lot of support about her stance including over 240 donations for a GoFundMe campaign (which has raised over 6,100 to date.)

The barrister noted that one of the first comments about the controversy on X (formerly Twitter) was a post, which received 29,000 views, urging others to help Ms Carey to find a new job before the week was out.

Ms Mallon observed that it would suggest that the complainants reputation was not as damaged as she maintained.

However, Ms Carey said the majority of online commentary was negative.

The barrister complained that there was a lack of documentation from Ms Carey about efforts she had made to find new employment since her dismissal including about overtime and promotional opportunities in relation to her job with An Post.

There is not a scintilla of evidence, Ms Mallon remarked.

She claimed there was an onus on the complainant to demonstrate that she had properly and appropriately mitigated her loss.

Ms Mallon said Wix had identified lots of jobs for which Ms Carey was qualified.

Under legislation, the maximum award that can be made by the WRC in the Wix case is 80,000  the equivalent of two years salary.

The WRC said it would issue its ruling on the compensation award in due course.

Following the hearing, Ms Carey said she had no regrets about her original comment about the situation in Gaza, despite being subjected to what she claimed were derogatory and defamatory posts telling complete lies about her online.

I think I was very soft-handed. What has happened since to Palestinians and what has been happening at the hands of the Israeli government has only exacerbated and got worse. Im glad I said what I said, said Ms Carey.

She added: It was true then and its even more true now. I think the evidence is damning when we look at what Israel is doing to Palestinians.
It was a hugely disappointing Local Elections in Mayo for Sinn Fein.

Running its highest-ever number of candidates in the county with nine in the six electoral areas, the party managed to take just a single seat - outgoing councillor Gerry Murray who has been a member of Mayo County Council since 1999.

John Sheahan was desperately unlucky not join Murray in Swinford but elsewhere the party was largely out of the running in every constituency. Several candidates, including Donna Hyland in Castlebar and Rosaleen Dixon-Lally in Belmullet, had been hotly tipped for election, but Sinn Feins Mayo performance mirrored the national picture.

The bottom line is that we were hoping to make change on Mayo County Council, said Sinn Fein TD Rose Conway-Walsh.

From my point of view being a TD with only one councillor is extremely challenging. Because my competition has 10 councillors with 10 budgets across the county, she added.

Cllr Murray will be on his lonesome again in Aras an Chontae. He said the narrow margin of defeat suffered by his running mate John Sheahan and issues with the stamping of ballot papers in Swinford was hard to take.

What was disappointing is not just losing it by the one vote but 10 or 12 of Johns number one votes were discounted because they werent stamped. I understand that would be higher than usual and the highest of any of the candidates, said Cllr Murray.

He said it was always going to be a difficult task for his party colleagues to unseat sitting councillors.

As a councillor myself, I understand how difficult that is, because a sitting councillor has significant resources over the five-year period. We have significant discretionary funding as well, there is a significant war chest there for each councillor. I knew that it would be difficult and a national bounce would be needed to deliver at least three or four councillors to Mayo County Council, said Cllr Murray. There are no dramatic changes in the personnel on council. That tells its own story."

Cllr Murray said a greater emphasis should have been placed on local issues rather than national policy in some of the partys literature.

The canvas cards reflected more national policy than local policy and did not give enough scope or room to local candidates to outline their vision. That didnt really matter to me but for a new candidate they need a lot more space to outline what their plans and visions are. I think that was a mistake."

Deputy Conway-Walsh said the party "did a national campaign for a local election". She expects that many of the defeated candidates will consider running again.

The candidates in the main have not been put off and you will see a lot of the same candidates on the ballot paper again in five years times, she predicted.
The Ice House is a dreamy North Mayo destination where guests can enjoy downtime in one of the countrys most beautiful locations while enjoying great food surrounded by natural beauty, with stunning views across the River Moy and out to the Wild Atlantic Way.

In a partnership this summer, chef Kwanghi Chan returns to the hotel where he was previously head chef back in 2012, with a signature dish on menus for lunch and dinner, inspired by his own personal story and the specific setting of The Ice House. A seafood-focused dish highlighting the exceptional fish landed in the region, Kwanghis steamed hake with ginger and spring onion will be on the menu at The Ice House until the end of August.

Currently Commissioner General for Euro-Toques Ireland, since working at The Ice House, Kwanghi was Head Chef at the five-star Cliff House Hotel in Ardmore, Co.Waterford, working at the one Michelin-starred House Restaurant for four years. Bites By Kwanghi, his street food concept, won him the 2021 RTE Battle of the Food Trucks televised competition, and he now has a restaurant in Dublins Docklands, as well as a popular range of sauces and condiments called East by Kwanghi Chan. Kwanghi will be a familiar face to many from his regular appearances creating fast fusion cooking on Virgin Media Ones Six OClock Show.

Steamed hake with ginger and spring onion is more than just a dish for me growing up, says chef Kwanghi Chan, it is a symbol of family, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Hong Kong cuisine. It represents the artistry of transforming simple, fresh ingredients into a meal that is both exquisite and comforting, bringing a little nostalgia with memories of my grandparents.

"Traditionally, this dish might feature turbot, brill, or other fish native to the Hong Kong region, known for their delicate texture and flavour. However, in this contemporary Irish setting, Ive chosen to use hake, a firm and flavourful fish from the Irish North Atlantic. Not only does hake offer a similar tender texture, but it is also recognised as one of the most sustainable fish choices, aligning with our values of responsible sourcing.

"Im delighted to be back at The Ice House again after my last post here many years ago as head chef. The sense of calm and tranquillity along the River Moy was a great inspiration for simple cooking with great ingredients from the local area. Im delighted to be working with the team at The Ice House and head chef Antony Holland to bring you a dish that is close to my heart.

Kwanghi will be cooking in the kitchen at The Ice House to celebrate the summer partnership on Thursday 20th of June, a ticketed three-course event, open to the public, with tickets available for 55.

Kwanghis hake dish will be available until the end of August for lunch and dinner.
By David Young, PA

The Taoiseach has said achieving a united Ireland remains his political aspiration but insisted his current focus is promoting practical cooperation on the island.

Simon Harris was asked on Wednesday about weekend comments from his predecessor Leo Varadkar about unity.

Speaking at an Irelands Future event in Belfast, Mr Varadkar expressed hope the next government in Dublin would actively work towards achieving unification and set it as a political objective.

He said the Government should also consider using its budget surplus to set up a fund to prepare for the economic challenges of Irish unity.

Mr Harris was asked about his comments as he attended the opening of a new phase of the Ulster Canal restoration in Clones, County Monaghan.

Restoring the canal is a key north/south investment project.

I think its good that we now live in a country and on an island where people are freely and regularly discussing the future. I think that is a good thing, said the Taoiseach.

Mr Harris praised the work of the Governments Shared Island Unit, which invests in projects of mutual benefit to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

It is the legitimate aspiration of any nationalist or any republican to want a united Ireland, he added.

That is my political aspiration, as well.

But I think the practical ways in the right moment in time now is to keep on looking for practical ways of working together, embed the (Good Friday Agreement) institutions, extend the hand of friendship, win over hearts and minds.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin, who also attended the event in Clones, said the main priority needed to be reconciliation.

I think the most significant investment we can make into the future is an investment in reconciliation, he said.

Thats the hard work.

And theres a lot of hard work still to be done in terms of reconciling the different traditions on this island.

And thats what we, I think, need to focus on in the coming while.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The European Investment Bank (EIB) is providing technical assistance for Azerbaijan's transport sector, Maciej Czura, Head of the EIB Regional Representation for the South Caucasus, told Trend.

"In addition to financing, EIB Global provides advisory support and technical assistance for project preparation and implementation. Currently, we are providing advisory support for safety enhancements at level-crossings along the Baku-Boyuk Kesik Railway Corridor, an important Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) link in the Middle Corridor," he said.

According to Czura, this support is helping Azerbaijan Railways in analyzing and prioritizing interventions and in scoping the related design studies.

"The EIB provides this support under the Facility for Eastern Partnership Investment in Connectivity (EPIC). Funded by the European Union and managed by our advisory program of Joint Assistance to Support Projects in European Regions (JASPERS), EPIC offers Eastern partnership countries free advisory support and technical assistance to improve transport connections," the official explained.

Meanwhile, the EIB is the EU bank and one of the biggest multilateral financial institutions in the world. EIB Group's new financing signed in 2023 reached 88 billion euros, whereas 49 billion euros was allocated to green financing (climate action and environmental sustainability financing). EIB Global, the EIBs development branch responsible for operations outside the EU, signed in 2023 8.4 billion euros in new financing.
Weather Alert

Bulletin: ...FROST ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM TO 9 AM EDT FRIDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures as low as 33 degrees will result in frost formation. * WHERE...A portion of central Pennsylvania. * WHEN...From 2 AM to 9 AM EDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Frost could harm sensitive outdoor vegetation. Sensitive outdoor plants may be killed if left uncovered. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants and vegetation from the cold. Potted plants should be brought inside. The frost will occur mainly in valley locations. &&

Info:

Type: Frost Advisory

start_time_local: 2024-10-11T02:00:00-04:00

end_time_local: 2024-10-11T09:00:00-04:00

county_name:

state: PA

headline: Frost Advisory from FRI 2:00 AM EDT until FRI 9:00 AM EDT

county_fips:

category: Met

url:

urgency: Expected

severity: Minor

certainty: Likely

geographicname: Schuylkill County

state_name: Pennsylvania
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The revenues of the Azerbaijani State Social Protection Fund (SSPF) under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of Population grew by 2.9 percent (78 million manat, or $45.88 million) to 2.76 billion manat ($1.6 billion) from January through May 2024, a source in the fund told Trend.

According to the source, SSPF's income from compulsory state social insurance during the mentioned period rose by 8.8 percent (187 million manat, or $110 million), totaling 2.29 billion manat ($1.35 billion).

Meanwhile, the fund's expenses amounted to 2.8 billion manat ($1.6 billion), which is 14 percent, or 347 million manat ($204 million) more than the same period in 2023.

To note, the SSPF revenues amounted to 6.67 billion manat ($3.9 billion) last year, which is 16.5 percent higher than in 2022, and its expenses stood at 6.08 billion manat or $3.58 billion (an increase of 15.8 percent).

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Visa is actively working on expanding the list of Azerbaijani banks connected to Apple Pay and Google Pay, senior director and regional manager of Visa in Azerbaijan Nurlan Hajiyev told Trend.

"Tokenization was launched in Azerbaijan only in 2019. However, already today, the penetration of tokenized payments in the country is noticeably higher than in many other countries, including those that introduced this technology earlier. We are proud to note that at the moment, every fifth non-cash transaction in Azerbaijan (this includes, for example, payments using physical cards or online payments in e-commerce) is made by the most modern and advanced method - contactless. This is a remarkable indicator," Hajiyev said.

Visa's senior director also reminded that currently, 14 Azerbaijani banks are connected to Apple Pay and have passed the relevant certification, and 15 - to Google Pay.

"Azerbaijan has made a significant leap in this direction in a short period of time: Apple Pay came to the country in 2021 and Google Pay in 2022. We certainly hope that the number of connected banks in Azerbaijan will continue to grow. We are happy to cooperate with various market players and are open to new partnerships," he emphasized.

To note, Visa (NYSE: V) is a global leader in the digital payments industry. Visa processes payment transactions between consumers, businesses, and financial and government institutions in more than 200 countries and territories. Visa's mission is to unite the world through an innovative, convenient, reliable, and secure payment network to promote consumer well-being and business and economic prosperity.

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Time to knock undeserving politicians off their pedestals

Sadly, politicos have become the pre-eminent role models for many black South Africans.

Hero-worshiping politicians is one of the reasons for the crisis of mediocrity across society. It has dumbed down public discourse. It has made incompetence, corruption, and anti-intellectualism acceptable. It has stunted South Africas development, innovation, and prosperity.

Politicians are often treated as celebrities by many black South Africans, including the youth. They are often put on a pedestal. They are bestowed with enormous social power  whether ideological, political or influence, even if they lack merit, honesty, or ideas.

At public events ordinary citizens stand up to honour often corrupt, income and uncaring politicians. Ministers are often called honourable when there is nothing honourable about them. Sadly, some citizens even kneel before politicians. These practices deferring to politicians must stop. In fact, politicians must call citizens your honourable or kneel before citizens, because citizens pay their fat salaries, benefits, and freebie lifestyles. Perhaps if this happens, politicians will be accountable, deliver the public services they promise and be more honest.

Because politicians are frequently put on pedestal, the public accepts them being overpaid, being driven around, protected at the taxpayers expense, exempted from loadshedding. Politicians do not use the public transport, schools, and hospitals they extol  and which they incompetently oversee.

All over the country street, building and park names are named after politicians. Universities give misplaced honorary degrees to politicians, appointing them to head their councils and as Chancellors.

Politicians are regularly asked to give annual memorial lectures, mouthing mostly platitudes or rehashing rhetoric, outdated, limited, and outdated beliefs, devoid of evidence, facts, and wider research. Government regularly put politicians high up on the annual honorary lists.

Private companies are increasingly appointing politicians to boards, many times to safeguards government contracts, licences and to protect against reprimands against consumer exploitation, labour rights violations and environmental obligations.

Sadly, the hero worshipping of flawed politicians, has caused many thinking black people of being accused of by large numbers of black South Africans, sadly especially the young, of being clever blacks a derogatory term used by former President Jacob Zuma for black South Africans who were critical of corruption, victimhood and black and white thinking, the tendency to think in extremes, blaming conspiracies for self-inflicting failures, and slavish mass conformism to self-harm beliefs.

Politician entrepreneurs such as Edwin Sodi, who get government contracts, purely on political connectedness, even if they do not have the skills, capacity, or care to deliver on their government contracts are hero worship as so-called businessmen and women.

Genuine entrepreneurs, who create businesses, which create jobs, reduce poverty and inequality are not given the same veneration as given to politicians. In contrast in most emerging markets entrepreneurs, innovators and genuine businesspeople are hero worship.

In China, entrepreneurs, are so admired by ordinary citizens, that the Chinese government have increasingly clipped the wings of the great entrepreneurs like Jack Ma because they are perceived to be more popular than politicians. In the successful East Asian developmental states or the Asian tigers, entrepreneurs, entrepreneurial civil servants, and innovative professionals were put on pedestals.

This is one of the reasons why these East Asian societies achieved their post-Second World War economic miracles, compared to most politician admiring African countries which have in the post-colonial period deindustrialised, meaning many became poorer, lost their ability to manufacture, became less skilled and saw their infrastructure regress.

Politicians have made many individual black South Africans fabulously and instantly rich. Former President Jacob Zuma for example could build a R28-milllion family compound in Nkandla on taxpayers money. Because of this politics have become for many the preferred route for paycheck, wealth, and power. Many ANC members kill others to become elected politicians.

Since 1994 politicians have become increasingly more corrupt, incompetent, and superficial. The most corrupt, incompetent, violent, unemployable, and clueless appear to seek power through politics.

In South Africa politicians have sadly become the pre-eminent role models for many black youths. They set the moral, social, and political norms, fashion, and trends. Many young people copy the bling behaviour, the violent dismissing of evidence and facts and the empty pontification of politicians.

Because politicians are hero worshipped, many, including black youth see politics as the only way to individual economic freedom. Very few see pursuing professional careers that demand long studies, such as engineering, academia, and science as appealing.

As politicians are elevated in society, professions such as engineering, accounting and medicine are devalued. Artisans, craftsmen and craftswomen and technicians are even more disdained by many. Unless society put politicians less on pedestals, treat them like ordinary citizens and hold them accountable, the incompetence, corruption, and anti-intellectualism will continue, and South Africa will continue its downward spiral into a failed state.

William Gumede is Associate Professor, School of Governance, University of the Witwatersrand, and author of Restless Nation: Making Sense of Troubled Times (Tafelberg). This article was first published in the SundayTimes/TimesLive.
Researchers discover a potential vaccine to prevent tuberculosis in people of all ages

In a critical global public health development, a candidate vaccine for tuberculosis (TB) has been created using a gene-editing approach.

TB remains the leading cause of death by infectious disease globally, with South Africa having one of the highest incidence rates in the world.

While the BCG vaccine used to prevent TB is widely available for infants, no vaccine has shown lasting protection. The BCG is also the only existing effective vaccine.

South Africa committed to the Sustainable Development Goal of ending the TB epidemic by 2030. While we are doing relatively well as a country  TB deaths have come down since 2015  we need to do a lot better to reach the milestones, says Professor Bavesh Kana.

Kana, the Head of the School of Pathology and former director of the Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research at Wits University, contributed to the groundbreaking study.

Researchers sought to modify the BCG vaccine to make it more effective at controlling the growth of M. tuberculosis.

Mice injected with the edited BCG vaccine had less M. tuberculosis growth in their lungs than mice that received the original vaccine.

We can now offer a new candidate vaccine in the fight against this deadly disease," says Kana. "The work also demonstrates that gene editing is a powerful way to develop vaccines. This is particularly important for researchers working on vaccine development."

About the tuberculosis vaccine

The BCG vaccine is given to children around the time of birth and is effective at preventing TB disease.

However, BCG does not protect teenagers and adults and has not been effective at eradicating TB.

This has spurred the need to develop novel TB vaccine candidates to replace or boost BCG.

We also see that the BCG can evade the immune system and that this reduces its efficacy as a vaccine, says Kana.

He noted that the importance of vaccines cannot be overstated.

When humans get sick, their body's defence system spots particular signs, called PAMPs (pathogen-associated molecular patterns), on the outside of bacteria, viruses, or other harmful germs.

This helps the body tell the difference between invaders and its own cells and then starts fighting the infection.

Vaccines work by looking like germs, so that they can start the first defence without making a person sick.

Kana has lamented the funding gap in developing tools to eliminate TB  a disease which dates back over 9000 years.

Until recently, our diagnostic approaches were a century old. With some novel vaccine candidates in the pipeline, we can finally begin to adequately address this devastating illness.
The media reported that a contract was signed between France and Armenia on the purchase and sale of "Caesar" self-propelled artillery units.

Despite the warning of the Azerbaijani side, the fact that France supplies Armenia with lethal and offensive artillery devices and other types of weapons is another proof of France's provocative activities in the South Caucasus region.

Although the French Ministry of Defense claimed in its statement in October of last year that the military equipment supplied to Armenia is of a defensive nature, supplying Armenia with lethal weapons with the current military deal is another manifestation of the hypocrisy of the French leadership.

The Macron regime, which pursues a policy of militarization and geopolitical intrigue in the South Caucasus region, is an obstacle to the normalization between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the provision of sustainable peace in the region. Due to its destructive and biased policy, the current leadership of France, which is left out of the normalization and regional processes, cannot forgive this to Azerbaijan and therefore continues its destructive policy.

Armenia is a state that committed military aggression and occupation against Azerbaijan. The rearmament of Armenia, which has the experience of committing bloody military aggression by France, which is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and the support of the Armenian leadership's policy of revanchism are both political irresponsibility and the road to a new war.

As a colonial empire, France has historically had an abhorrent track record of creating hotbeds of war and conflict in various parts of the world. The processes taking place in New Caledonia and other overseas colonial territories, the exploitation of indigenous peoples, the plundering of their natural resources, the changing of the demographic composition of those territories as a result of racist policies, and the repression of protests by blood and gun violence are indicators of the true nature of the Macron regime. Instead of solving such deep-rooted problems and putting an end to neo-colonialism, which is a remnant of a shameful colonial legacy, France is conducting a dirty propaganda and disinformation campaign against Azerbaijan.

We declare that the responsibility for the escalation of the situation in the South Caucasus region and the creation of a new hotbed of war will be fully borne by the leadership of Armenia, which pursues a revanchist policy, and the Macron dictatorship.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku proceeds with panel discussions, Trend reports.

The opening ceremony of the event was attended by the Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev, 73rd President of the UN General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa, Director-General of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Senior Scientist of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Ismahane Elouafi, and the UN Secretary-General's High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations Miguel Moratinos.

Addressing the participants, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Mukhtar Babayev noted that it's important for the COP29 Presidency to listen to all views, develop a program based on consensus, and find common solutions on climate action empowering everyone. "We aim to support all parties in advancing their ambitions through national climate action plans, national adaptation plans, and transparency reports. Azerbaijan is strengthening its efforts, and we are committed to integrating political participation to support ongoing substantive discussions. It is time to move forward in the spirit of solidarity for the sake of the future".

Director General of the World Health Organization Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus pointed out in his speech that climate action can save millions of lives every year. "The climate crisis is a health and healthcare crisis. The scale of climate-related humanitarian emergencies is increasing. Climate change contributes to the spread of diseases like plague and malaria. Climate action can save millions of lives each year".

Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IEAE) Najat Mokhtar, in this regard, added that climate change is a problem affecting every aspect of life, from health to the environment. "Climate change is an issue that affects all aspects of our lives, from healthcare and food systems to the economy and the environment. However, at the same time, there is an unprecedented opportunity to address this problem through inventions and technological innovations".

Further speaking, the 73rd President of UN General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa noted that the success of COP29 means success for the whole world. "We are obliged to combine our efforts, our intellect with the greatest ambition and shared responsibility. I believe that we are all part of the success of COP. We are here to learn, to listen, to encourage intelligent debate on climate change. We also want to be part of the success of COP29. The success of COP29 won't only be the success of Azerbaijan".

Azerbaijan's Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev said that communities worldwide are suffering from the effects of climate change,

He emphasized that tackling this issue requires taking a holistic approach in order to make a dent in greenhouse gas emissions.

"We normally focus on one type of greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, but we must also consider others. They are called super pollutants, because they cause not only emissions but also global warming, air pollution, and health concerns in individuals," the official explained.

The primary objective of convening this top-tier gathering is to make sure that all stakeholders are on the same page and pulling in the same direction for the success of COP29 in Azerbaijan's Baku.

Preparations for COP29 in Baku involve tackling existing global challenges and opportunities in climate action from all angles.

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 Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. It's important for the COP29 Presidency to listen to all views, develop a program based on consensus, and find common solutions on climate action empowering everyone, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Mukhtar Babayev said, Trend reports.

The minister made the remark during the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku.

He pointed out that over the past months, the COP29 team has conducted extensive consultations with leaders of relevant international organizations.

"We have seen the commitment of all stakeholders to work together to address the consequences of our common climate challenge. During the Petersberg Climate Dialogue, we outlined the vision for COP29 to enhance ambitions and create opportunities for action, and now we are ready to move from a broad plan to more specific pathways.

We aim to support all parties in advancing their ambitions through national climate action plans, national adaptation plans, and transparency reports. Azerbaijan is strengthening its efforts, and we are committed to integrating political participation to support ongoing substantive discussions. It is time to move forward in the spirit of solidarity for the sake of the future," Babayev added.

The primary objective of convening this top-tier gathering is to make sure that all stakeholders are on the same page and pulling in the same direction for the success of COP29 in Azerbaijan's Baku.

Preparations for COP29 in Baku involve tackling existing global challenges and opportunities in climate action from all angles.

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 Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. The success of COP29 means success for the whole world, as the 73rd President of the UN General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa said during the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku today, Trend reports.

We have to put our best efforts and brains together with the highest aspirations and common accountability. I think everyone of us contributes to COP's success. We are here to educate, to listen, and to promote a reasoned discussion of climate change. Apart from that, we wish to contribute to COP29's success. Not only will COP29 succeed, but Azerbaijan will as well, she added.

The primary objective of convening this top-tier gathering is to make sure that all stakeholders are on the same page and pulling in the same direction for the success of COP29 in Azerbaijan's Baku.

Preparations for COP29 in Baku involve tackling existing global challenges and opportunities in climate action from all angles.

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 Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Climate action can save millions of lives every year, Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said during the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" taking place in Baku, Trend reports.

Drought and a dramatic increase in air temperature, in his opinion, affect millions of people.

The climate crisis is a public health crisis. The scale of climate-related humanitarian emergencies is growing. Climate change contributes to the spread of diseases such as plague and malaria," the WHO chief added.

The primary objective of convening this top-tier gathering is to make sure that all stakeholders are on the same page and pulling in the same direction for the success of COP29 in Azerbaijan's Baku.

Preparations for COP29 in Baku involve tackling existing global challenges and opportunities in climate action from all angles.

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 Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Climate change is a problem affecting every aspect of life, from health to environment, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IEAE) Najat Mokhtar said during the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku today, Trend reports.

According to her, science, technology, and innovation are the keys to tackling climate challenges and paving the way for a resilient future.

Climate change is a problem that affects every aspect of our lives, from health and food systems to the economy and the environment. However, at the same time, there is an unprecedented opportunity to solve this problem through invention and technological innovation, she added.

The primary objective of convening this top-tier gathering is to make sure that all stakeholders are on the same page and pulling in the same direction for the success of COP29 in Azerbaijan's Baku.

Preparations for COP29 in Baku involve tackling existing global challenges and opportunities in climate action from all angles.

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 Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.

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Protchenko Olena in qipao



Protchenko Olena has been living and working in China for six years. She is one of the on-air talents with China News Center of China Arab Television (CATV, a channel aimed at promoting social, cultural and economic ties between China and the Arab region). "I enjoy working as a journalist, to get firsthand experiences in China, and to introduce the real China to the world," she says.

Indissoluble Bond

Olena speaks Chinese as fluently as if it is her mother tongue, and she widely uses Chinese when conducting interviews and making her reports. Whenever she is asked where she learned to speak Chinese, Olena proudly says she began studying Chinese when she was 6 at the Kyiv Gymnasium of Oriental Languages No. 1 in her hometown, Kyiv, Ukraine.

She adds it was her grandfather's visit to China that helped her form an indissoluble bond with China, and the Chinese language.

"At that time, my grandfather travelled a lot on business trips around the world. He had been to many countries. His first visit to China was in 1989. After he returned from China, he told my parents that 'your daughter should start to learn Chinese.' Although China was not particularly developed at that time, my grandfather believed China's economy would surely take off," Olena says.

Her parents agreed with his suggestion, and they sent Olena to Kyiv Gymnasium of Oriental Languages No. 1 to study Chinese. "Looking back, I am really grateful for my grandfather, who was farsighted, and who sensed China's great development potential," Olena says.

Although she has only been in China for six years, Olena has been deeply impressed by the development and changes that have been occurring in China. "China changes every year. The country is full of vitality, which is especially attractive to many foreigners," she says.

Olena recalls how her foreign friends were shocked by the changes taking place in China. "I was in Shanghai several years ago. When some of my friends, who had left Shanghai for a few months, or a year, came back to the city again, they would ask me: 'This street didn't exist before ... this building didn't exist before ... What happened?'"

Protchenko Olena covered the annual session of the National People's Congress in March 2024.



Being a Journalist

"I feel happy, being able to work as a host and a journalist in China, which gives me opportunities to meet different people, participate in various activities and obtain extensive knowledge. And I am glad I can do a good job in telling China's stories, Chinese culture and China's development to the world," Olena says.

She has reported on several major events, including the annual sessions of the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (known as two sessions), the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, the Boao Forum for Asia, the China International Import Expo, the World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit, and the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympic Games.

Olena has also regularly reported on the news conferences of both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the State Council Information Office. She has also hosted several television programs focused on Chinese culture and people-to-people exchanges.

Since she began working with CATV, in 2018, she has visited 20 provinces, four municipalities, two autonomous regions, as well as the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions. She enjoys traveling to various places, as a journalist, to learn about local culture and the areas' economic development.

Protchenko Olena, as a journalist, attended the opening ceremony of the 10th ministerial conference of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum on May 30, 2024.



"My last visit to East China's Zhejiang Province left a deep impression on me. Zhejiang is the place where Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization originated, and where the 'lucid water and lush mountains are invaluable assets' concept was first introduced. Zhejiang has coordinated its environmental-protection and economic-development efforts to improve people's well-being, and to ensure sustained economic growth. I think Zhejiang sets a good example for the rest of the country, and even the world," Olena says.

More recently, Olena has been experiencing and reporting on the latest scientific and technological developments in China. For example, she has ridden an unmanned taxi, and she has shown a keen interest in the development of new-energy vehicles in China. Through her reports, she has shown the world China's leading edge in both new-energy vehicles and intelligent-network technologies.

The opening ceremony of the 10th ministerial conference of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum was held in Beijing on May 30. Olena attended as an international journalist. "Chinese President Xi Jinping's keynote speech at the opening ceremony touched me greatly. He said, 'In a world of growing diversity, more dialogue means less confrontation, and more inclusiveness means less estrangement. Peace, truth, integrity and inclusiveness are the common pursuit of Chinese and Arab peoples.' I believe the building of a China-Arab community, with a shared future, will see more solid steps in the future," Olena says.

Protchenko Olena with a centenarian, in a village, in South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region



Communicator of Chinese Culture

Olena not only has performed excellently in news reporting, she has also shown her love for China, and has served as a communicator of Chinese culture.

Her experiences in China have helped her build a bridge for cultural exchanges between China and other countries, and have helped her provide a unique perspective to help people in other countries to understand China.

"As I travel a lot as a journalist, I am able to tell the famous landscapes and cultural characteristics of each province, municipality or region that I have been to. Each time I visit a new place in China, I will do my homework in advance to learn about the local culture and customs. Honestly, I can be a tour guide in China now," Olena jokes.

As a fan of traditional Chinese medicine culture, Olena likes to take various methods of yangsheng (nourishing life) to maintain good health.

Olena is also interested in traditional Chinese clothes, headwear and ornaments. During her spare time, she enjoys visiting museums to see relevant collections. "I like qipao (cheongsam) and hanfu (traditional clothing of Han people) in particular. I have many cheongsam, and I like wearing them during my leisure time," she says.

Protchenko Olena in a Peking Opera costume



As a wife, mother and career woman, Olena has tried her best to balance career and family life. "I was pregnant when I covered the 20th CPC National Congress in 2022. After I gave birth, I insisted on breastfeeding, as I knew breastfeeding was vital to a child's lifelong health. When I had to work in other cities, I would take my child and maternity matron with me," Olena says.

During this year's two sessions, Olena covered the NPC session as a foreign journalist. While attending a meeting of Beijing's delegation of NPC deputies, Olena was impressed by deputy Yi Tong's suggestion to further stimulate the innovation vitality of women in science and technology, and to extend paternity leave. Yi is head of the innovation and development research institute of Beijing Academy of Science and Technology.

"I totally agree with her. Women play a unique role in family and society. I hope women can make greater achievements in various fields in the new era," Olena says.

For the future, Olena is determined to continue her career as a host and journalist in China. "I like my job very much. I want to do a variety of programs, especially cultural programs, and I want to introduce more of China and Chinese culture to foreigners. I think people abroad still don't know enough about China, so I want to do my part to help the world understand the real China, and Chinese culture. Chinese culture is extensive and profound, and I will keep learning it myself," Olena says.

Photos from Interviewee

(Women of China English Monthly June 2024)

Editor: Wang Shasha
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Communities worldwide are suffering from the effects of climate change, Azerbaijan's Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev said during the 29th High-Level Meeting themed "Pathway to COP29: Sustainable and Resilient Future" in Baku today, Trend reports.

He emphasized that tackling this issue requires taking a holistic approach in order to make a dent in greenhouse gas emissions.

"We normally focus on one type of greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, but we must also consider others. They are called super pollutants, because they cause not only emissions but also global warming, air pollution, and health concerns in individuals," the official explained.

The primary objective of convening this top-tier gathering is to make sure that all stakeholders are on the same page and pulling in the same direction for the success of COP29 in Azerbaijan's Baku.

Preparations for COP29 in Baku involve tackling existing global challenges and opportunities in climate action from all angles.

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 Germany's Berlin, with its secretariat in Bonn.

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Plans to ban Senedd Members who deliberately lie deemed unworkable

This article is old - Published: Wednesday, Jun 19th, 2024

Plans to ban Senedd members for deliberately lying may be unworkable, according to the Welsh Governments chief legal adviser.

Mick Antoniw, Wales counsel general, raised concerns about Adam Prices proposals to disqualify politicians from the Senedd for deliberate deception.

The ex-Plaid Cymru leaders amendment to the elections and elected bodies bill, which would create the offence of deception, was agreed after Labours Lee Waters abstained.

Giving evidence to an inquiry on accountability, Mr Antoniw said: Ill put my neck on the line at the moment and say I dont think criminalisation is the way that it actually works.

I think its actually unworkable probably.

He said the issue would be best considered by the standards committee inquiry, suggesting Welsh ministers will try to delete the clause during the next amending stage set for July 2.

Recall

Vikki Howells, the Labour backbencher who chairs the standards committee, asked whether Wales should adopt Westminsters approach to removing MPs between elections.

In the House of Commons, a recall petition can be triggered by a custodial sentence for 12 months or less, a suspension of 10 sitting days or more, or an expenses offence conviction.

Mr Antoniw broadly agreed with the criteria, emphasising the importance of consistency across parliaments while accounting for Wales-specific circumstances.

He said the 12-month threshold  above which Senedd members are already automatically disqualified  seems rather high, suggesting six months may be more appropriate.

Plaid Cymrus Peredur Owen Griffiths pointed out people could be imprisoned over a matter of conscience such as protesting about the environment, nuclear or the Welsh language.

Step too far

Mr Antoniw recognised the concern, saying peaceful protest is part of a democratic society, but he said a six-month threshold would exclude nearly all of those sorts of circumstances.

He cautioned: Discretions are always very difficult in terms of things like disqualification.

Asked whether a recall system should apply to members who change their political allegiance after an election, Mr Antoniw warned it may be a step too far.

The counsel general said politicians defecting to another party risks inappropriately changing the balance of the Senedd and the outcome of an election.

But he told the committee a politician could leave a party over a matter of conscience, such as a group changing its position on an issue post-election.

Prolonged

Mr Antoniw argued the most effective way forward would be to ensure Senedd members cannot form or join another political party, with a requirement to sit as an independent.

He made the case for an appeals process as part of any recall system, warning the absence of one could throw up all sorts of human rights issues and lead to legal challenge.

But Mr Antoniw stressed the importance of proceeding at pace as he raised concerns about previous standards committee processes going on for a very, very prolonged period.

He argued a simple majority vote of the whole Senedd should be required to sign off on recall processes, rather than a two-thirds supermajority.

Whips cant apply, he said. I dont think that would be appropriate in any circumstances.

Complexities

Responding to Mark Drakefords concerns about the risk of a minority blocking recall, Mr Antoniw agreed with the ex-first minister that a supermajority risks over-politicisation.

Mr Owen Griffiths asked how the counsel general would envisage the process working in light of the complexities of Wales new fully proportional closed-list electoral system.

Under the members and elections bill, which is set to receive Royal Assent, people will vote for parties rather than individual candidates in future Senedd elections.

Mr Antoniw suggested a simple retain-or-replace public vote, saying it would effectively be a referendum on whether an MS should be removed.

Its not so much a petition because a petition is to ask permission to do something, he explained. And its not a byelection because there are no other candidates.

Fairness

He said the next person on a partys initial list, which can include up to 12 candidates, would replace an unseated MS, retaining the make-up of the Senedd determined at the ballot box.

Asked whether parties should have discretion to later reorder lists, based on factors such as gender balance, Mr Antoniw cautioned against the added complexity.

Prof Drakeford highlighted that the 32 constituencies in Wales that will be used in the July 4 general election will be paired to create 16 for the next Senedd poll.

The Cardiff West MS suggested a threshold should be required in each constituency rather than across both, saying: Fairness should trump anxieties about complexity.

He said it is possible constituencies such as Blaenau Gwent and Monmouth, which have a different character, could be paired by the Electoral Commission.

Public expectation

Prof Drakeford warned: Unless you have a threshold that applies to both, one half could actually determine the outcome for the other.

Mr Antoniw accepted issues could arise, such as between industrial and rural constituencies, but his gut feeling favoured the simplicity of a combined threshold.

Asked whether polls should be open for a single day or longer as in Westminsters system, Mr Antoniw preferred the latter as he argued it would best maximise participation.

The Conservatives Natasha Asghar asked about the chances of a recall bill being passed before the next election, and said having 96 more MSs will raise the risk of misbehaviour.

Mr Antoniw told the June 17 meeting: The commitment given from the Welsh Government  from the first minister  is that we would like to see this legislation in place by 2026.

I think that is the public expectation as well.

By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter
Following Mondays hustings event in Camden, London, addressed by SEP candidate Tom Scripps, the WSWS spoke to a member of the audience, Vilma.

Overall, hes so right, the imperialist powers have been destroying the world for so long. They go into countries like in South America, take down governments and put in ones that work for them. And the people have no choice but to get out of there in droves and try to go to the United States, to be treated like slaves basically.

Vilma and Tom Scripps

Vilma said the Conservative governments plan to deport thousands of asylum seekers to Rwanda was absolutely appalling, what this guy Sunak, who was an immigrant, has tried to do.

In Gaza, the UK is part of an experiment with the Palestinians, killing them, getting rid of them, so that they can exploit the oil and the gas, thats just outside, in the sea, just a few miles from them. This is simply appalling, because now its greed that has taken over politics to an extreme where human values have no place at all.

Asked what she thought of Scripps assessment of Jeremy Corbyns leadership of the Labour Party, Vilma said, I am part of a Brazilian group in London. We are very thankful to Jeremy because he received the ex-president, and hes always been supportive of Lula and the Workers Party in Brazil. But with regards to [WikiLeaks founder] Julian Assange, he never uttered a word [throughout two general elections]. He is a publisher. We are appalled at that because clearly Assange doesnt deserve what hes getting. He has been persecuted for 13-14 years.

He spent almost 10 years inside the Ecuadoran Embassy, and they waited until the change of government there to get [former President Rafael] Correa who it seems had a lot of corruption behind him, with his name in the Panama papers. So they got rid of him to deliver Assange to the hands of this government. And Keir Starmer was the one of those who did all that. Its unbelievable

Vilma and Tom Scripps

I was pleased to hear Tom raising this, I applauded him. He was so correct in mentioning him, because that was one of my questions. How can you trust Starmer, who is responsible for the downfall of Corbyn with the antisemitic allegations, and got rid of every person in the Labour Party who is democratic? Hes making a Zionist party.

I have Latin American friends and we discussed why Jeremy Corbyn never fought back. I think that he thought that maybe by keeping quiet that things would die down and go away. He was always anti-nuclear and against war, so why did he let people massacre him like that, and basically get rid of him from the party? He obviously was a threat to Starmer, who probably had the support of the Conservatives as well

I agree that Corbyn is more loyal to the Labour Party than the working class. I dont subscribe to any party, although Im a supporter of the Labour Party in my country, which is Lula

I think that Toms point is so valid because Corbyn is so supportive of the Labour Party which is no longer the same as it was. It went a long time ago. I dont think that it represents the working class people Its become a two party system like America that represents no one.

You can follow and support the Socialist Equality Partys campaign at socialism2024.org.uk
The past few weeks have been characterised by a breathtaking escalation of the NATO proxy war against Russia in Ukraine. Hardly a day has gone by without leading politicians urging tougher action against Russia. While the Ukrainian army has attacked targets in the Russian hinterland with NATO weapons and the military alliance discussed the deployment of ground troops, the German government is vigorously pressing ahead with its preparations for a major European land waras the self-proclaimed defence industry minister Robert Habeck (Greens) calls it.

Bundeswehr advertising poster: Ready for the new service in your homeland?

The government is accelerating its plans for a new compulsory military service, which Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (Social Democrats, SPD) partially presented to the public last week. In the spring, Pistorius had already called for a return to compulsory military service based on the Scandinavian model in order to make Germany fit for war.

Last Wednesday, Pistorius then announced to the assembled press that at least 5,000 additional young men and women would be called up for selective military service every year from 2025. This was the maximum possible within the limits of current training capacities.

I make no secret of it: I would like to train 20,000 conscripts every year, said the minister. With the expansion of capacities, the number should then increase. Three issues are central to this: personnel, material and finances. In an emergency, we need young men and women to defend this country.

The main purpose of Pistorius immediate plans lies less in an immediate mobilisation than in creating the structuresregistration of persons, corresponding laws, etc.to eventually be able to call up hundreds of thousands of soldiers and reservists as cannon fodder.

According to Pistorius, the first step should be to reintroduce conscription. Since this currently exists, Neither for those who turn 18 and would have to be drafted if we were to get into a defence situation, nor for those who have already served and are now living their lives as 40- or 45-year-old fathers, this was an untenable situation, the minister said.

The current conscription plans centre on sending a questionnaire to all 18-year-old men and women, in which they are asked to provide information about their physical condition and interest in military service. The approximately 400,000 men affected each year are obliged to complete the questionnaire. If they fail to do so, they face a fine.

The selection on the basis of the questionnaire means 40,000 to 50,000 young people will then be required to take part in the draft. At the end, We will have a precise idea of which young men and women are particularly suitable and motivated to serve our country, explained Pistorius.

Contrary to what numerous press reports suggestsuch as Der Spiegel, under the headline Just a bit of dutythe governments plan is by no means based solely on the willingness to volunteer of young people. Not least because of the massive recruitment problems of recent decades, the government and the Bundeswehr (Armed Forces) know that the aversion to the military among young people is still overwhelming.

If 5,000 volunteers were not recruited, Pistorius expressly stated it would be necessary to compulsorily enlist them. Conscription itself should be reinstated and a corresponding draft law prepared by the autumn, he said.

In addition, the number of reservists who are called up in the event of war should be more than tripledfrom 60,000 to 200,000. To this end, conscripts should be called up to the reserve after their active service and train annually with active troops and other reservists.

In addition, he would like to see general compulsory service. The model now being presented was a starting point, said the minister, adding, This does not rule out anything for the future.

The scale of conscription that Pistorius and his ministry have in mind is revealed in a confidential internal paper quoted by Der Spiegel on June 7. According to this, the Bundeswehr would need around 465,000 soldiers in a real case of defencemeaning a war against Russia. According to the same internal paper, a further 75,000 German soldiers are required just to fulfil the defence plans already agreed by NATO.

Overall defence framework guidelines (RRGV)

The mobilisation of hundreds of thousands of young people in Germany for a war against Russia would require a dictatorship. The government may be able to muster 5,000 volunteers a year, but not 500,000 without draconian coercive measures.

The enormity of the governments plans for the militarisation of the country can be seen from the Framework Guidelines for Overall Defence (RRGV), which were approved by the cabinet just one week before the new military service plans were announced and represent a kind of abridged version of the secret 1,000-page Operation Plan Germany.

This transfers the requirements of the defence policy guidelines adopted last November to society as a whole. As the WSWS commented in November, these guidelines can only be described as a blueprint for total war.

The RRGV now show that this assessment was by no means exaggerated. In the event of war, the whole of society is to be organised according to military requirements. Moreover, the government is obviously prepared to accept massive numbers of casualties.

For example, the guidelines only provide for basic protection against the effects of weapons of war, which results from the solid building fabric available everywherei.e., simple, often dilapidated residential buildings. Otherwise, underground car parks and underground stations would serve as improvised bunkers. The majority of the population would therefore be practically defenceless against massive air or artillery attacksnot to mention nuclear weaponsespecially as the usual attack scenarios are based on extremely short warning times.

The extent of war devastation that the government expects from 2029 onwards also becomes clear. Due to the possibility of damage occurring simultaneously in a large number of locations, the paper states, people cannot expect the state to help them. As in the last two world wars, which devastated an entire generation, they must therefore be prepared to help themselves first ... and also provide neighbourly help.

In addition, the guidelines contain massive cuts to basic rights, such as bans on leaving and entering.

According to a report in Der Spiegel, the much more comprehensive Operation Plan Germany also deals with questions such as whether there are enough train drivers and strikebreakers on the railway to ensure the transport of war equipment and cannon fodder to the front. Must an addendum be added in small print to the train drivers collective labour agreements: In the event of war, you will drive our trains?

These last points in particular show that the governments war plans are taking on the character of a conspiracy against the majority of the population. Whether at home or in the direct combat zone, they will be on the front line and are expected to sacrifice their lives and rights for the governments great power plans and the corporate interests it represents. At the same time, those in power take great care to ensure that these facts only reach the public in fragments or not at all.

These plans are flanked by non-stop war propaganda. Four days before the European elections, in which the government parties were downright decimated, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius demanded in the Bundestag (parliament): We must be ready for war by 2029thus substantiating his already well-known demand.

Last Wednesday, the minister continued, According to all international military experts, we must assume that Russia will be in a position ... to attack a NATO state or a neighbouring state from 2029.

Once again, the war in Ukraine serves as justification for imperialist war plans that have been in the pipeline for at least 10 years. On June 5, the minister declared in the Bundestag: We must not believe that Putin will stop at Ukraines borders. Russia was also a threat to Georgia, Moldova and NATO as a whole, he said, but did not provide any proof of this.

According to Der Spiegel, the Ministry of Defence has chosen the slogan The best year of my life for its efforts to recruit young people as cannon fodder for the interests of German capitalism. The last year of my life would be more honest.
Political turmoil is gripping the south Caucasus nation of Armenia, as Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan moves the country ever-closer to Washington and NATO. Anti-government protests led by nationalist Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan have been ongoing in the capital, Yerevan, for weeks. Protesters, whose numbers range from the hundreds to the thousands or more, are demanding the resignation of Pashinyan, whose approval ratings have plunged to 17 percent.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan [AP Photo/Evgenia Novozhenina]

Police are cracking down, using stun grenades and mass arrests to break up demonstrations and unblock streets. Over 98 people were arrested and 101 injured, including journalists, at last Wednesdays protest. Pashinyan defended the violence, saying security forces fulfilled the functions assigned to them by the law strictly within the framework of the law.

Since then, 12 more people have been detained on charges of hooliganism and participating in mass disturbances. The headquarters of the opposition Armenian Revolutionary Federation (Dashnaktsutyun) were raided on June 14 and several of its members arrested. Authorities also searched and seized computers from the offices of Armenias leading taxi service, whose founder spoke out in support of the anti-government demonstrations.

Washington, which is working to cement ties with Pashinyans government, has said nothing about the violence. Indeed, US government representatives were in Yerevan last week conducting talks as police assaulted protesters. In contrast, Washington and its European allies have denounced the ruling party of Georgia, which borders Armenia to the north, for cracking down on protests supported by NATO.

The demonstrations in Yerevan were sparked in April by the governments decision to cede four northern villages under Armenian control to neighboring Azerbaijan, amid efforts to secure a peace deal between the two countries, which have gone to war repeatedly over the last three decades.

Washington is pressing for this peace agreement, seeking to stabilize inter-state relations in the south Caucasus so it can use the region as a staging ground for war against Russia, secure new energy corridors that bypass Russia, and undermine Iran. US State Department representative Richard Verma is in Yerevan this week conducting discussions with the government about a potential resolution of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict.

The Azerbaijani government is demanding changes to Armenias constitution, which enshrines claims to territory in Azerbaijan and in Turkey in its opening passages.

Political map of the Caucusus region [Photo by Jeroenscommons / CC BY-SA 3.0

The opposition movement against Pashinyan is controlled by layers in the Armenian ruling elite who advocate an orientation more to Russia, with which Armenia has close economic, political and cultural ties. Armenias 2023 trade with Russia was valued at $7.3 billion, as compared to $670 million with the US. Russian is widely spoken in Armenia as a first and second language.

Archbishop Galstanyan, who currently leads the anti-government demonstrations, is calling for new dialog with Moscow and has declared his ambition to be prime minister. Appealing to nationalism, the Hayastan alliance and Tavush for the Homeland movement insist that Pashinyans ruling Civil Contract party is betraying Armenia. They aim to tap into Russian sympathies in the population and to stir up hostility to Azerbaijan.

Last year, the Azerbaijani government executed a lightning military operation and seized Nagorno-Karabakh, a majority Armenian-populated region fought over by the two states. It has now been almost entirely cleansed of its Armenian population, and 100,000 to 120,000 refugees have fled to Armenia. With this influx of people, shortages of homes, jobs and social services have mounted in Armenia, where the average monthly wage is $300 to $400fueling discontent with the government.

Pashinyans government has sought to deflect popular anger over the Nagorno-Karabakh crisis by blaming political leaders in that region, several of whom are now in Azerbaijani jails, for failing to defeat Azerbaijani forces. They are cowardly deserters, cowardly deserters, cowardly deserters, Pashinyan screamed on the parliament floor last week. He claimed they wanted to create a refugee crisis to bring down his government.

Protesters, in turn, accuse Pashinyan of being pro-Turkey, as Azerbaijan seized Nagorno-Karbakh with Turkish military support. This is politically explosive since, in 1915-1916, the Ottoman Empire of Turkey waged a genocidal campaign against the Armenian people. Between 667,000 and 1.2 million people lost their lives.

The present crisis in Armenia is historically rooted in the dissolution of the Soviet Union by the Stalinist Communist Party in 1991. When the Stalinists liquidated what remained of the conquests of the Russian Revolution of 1917, nationalist warfare erupted between the emerging capitalist ruling elites of the former Soviet republics, over control of the resources and social wealth of the former Soviet Union. Armenia and Azerbaijan, previously independent republics in a united Soviet state, waged war over Nagorno-Karabakh, resulting in thousands of deaths.

The United States and Europes imperialist powers rapidly sought to use the newly independent states for their own interests. The proximity of the south Caucasus to Russia and Iran and its place in the global movement of goods and energy resources makes it extremely valuable from their standpoint.

As they initiate the opening stages of World War III by waging war with Russia in Ukraine, Washington and the European imperialist powers are working to secure their foothold in the region. The military setbacks suffered by their Ukrainian puppet regime have only made them more reckless in their reactionary maneuvers to integrate Armenia and the entire south Caucasus into their war alliance against Russia.

Within this context, a section of the Armenian ruling elite is abandoning Armenias traditional ties with Russia and reorienting toward the United States and its allies. Prime Minister Pashinyan, who has said Armenia will leave the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization, attended a pro-Ukraine NATO war summit in Switzerland this week. He recently visited Bucha, Ukraine, where NATO claims Russia carried out a massacre in 2022.

On June 11, Armenias army chief met with his counterpart in France. Paris has now signed a deal to provide Yerevan with advanced weapons, radar, air-defense systems, armored carriers and night-vision resources. The same day, the US announced a new customs agreement with Armenia. On June 21, Armenias parliament will have hold hearings on a potential national referendum on joining the EU.

Concluding a round of talks with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan last week, US Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia James OBrien tweeted: Our discussions focused on democratic development, economic diversification, defense reforms, and Euro-Atlantic cooperation. He promised to work on closer security ties with the country.

For his part, Mirzoyan told the US-Armenia Strategic Defense Capstone Meeting: Todays meeting is yet another expression of high-level political dialogue between our two countries that will give another impetus to the evolving partnership between Armenia and the United States  The bilateral agenda continues to expand and include dimensions critical for the resilience and sustainable development of Armenia.

Russia has spoken out against the turn in Armenian foreign policy. In a June 13 interview with the Russian newspaper Komsomolskaya Pravda, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin insisted that remaining in the CSTO was essential for Armenias security and meets the aspirations of the Armenian people.

The more pro-Russian factions of the Armenian ruling elite are, in the final analysis, as bankrupt as the overt supporters of NATO. As for Russian President Vladimir Putins regime, they represent the same bankrupt capitalist oligarchy that emerged in Russia but also in Ukraine, Armenia and all the former Soviet republics during the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The slogans the leaders of Armenias anti-Pashinyan movement promote do not demand solutions to the socioeconomic problems facing workers, but appeal for the defense of Armenian land and appeal to anti-Azerbaijani and anti-Turkish hatreds. This does not resolve but inflames the conflicts in the region driven by the NATO war with Russia. Stopping capitalisms descent into war in the south Caucasus and across the former Soviet Union requires unifying the working class based on a Trotskyist perspective against Stalinism, capitalism and imperialist war.
Socialist Equality Party general election candidate Tom Scripps spoke at a hustings on Monday evening in Londons Holborn and St Pancras constituency. Scripps is challenging Labour leader and warmonger Sir Keir Starmer in the seat.

The hustings was organised by the Camden Abu Dis Friendship Association (CADFA) at the Cafe Palestina. CADFAs mission is to promote awareness about the human rights situation in Palestine. It was established after 2003 when a group in Camden made links with people in Abu Dis, a town in the Jerusalem suburb.

All 12 candidates were invited to the hustings. The genocide defender Starmer predictably chose not to attend. But in an affront to the basic democratic right to allow the electorate to hear different political views, none of the candidates of the other main parliamentary parties, or several standing as Independents, participated.

Tom Scripps speaking at the Camden hustings

Scripps therefore debated Andrew Feinstein, a former African National Congress MP and campaigner against corruption and the arms trade. Feinstein is standing as an Independent but is a supporter of the Collective group formed last month by supporters of former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, which bases itself on the five demands of Corbyns Peace and Justice Project: a pay rise for all, green new deal with public ownership, housing for all, tax the rich to save the NHS and welcome refugees in a world free from war.

Describing the bloodbath of the Palestinians, Scripps explained, This is a genocide; it is a second Nakba.

The fascist Israeli governments intention is to turn Gaza into a military-run wastelandand they are using massacres, extrajudicial murder, torture, forced removals, starvation. Netanyahu and the IDF also seek the dispossession and removal of as many Palestinians in the West Bank as possible, under conditions of a permanent and barbaric occupationin alliance with far-right settlers.

Scripps warned of a regional war, with plans for a major assault on Lebanon and also against Iraq and Syriaultimately targeting Iran

All of this is backed to the hilt by the imperialist powers, with the UK government in the front rank, who are ruling against the will of their populations who they are slandering as antisemites and threatening with arrest and imprisonment for using their democratic rights to oppose war crimes.

Scripps explained the connection between the war of extermination in Gaza and NATOs war against Russia, stating that the involvement of the imperialist powers is closely bound up with the spiral towards a world conflict between the imperialist camp led by the US and its chief rivals, Russia and China, to which Iran is a stepping stone.

He said of the mass opposition to war which had erupted in response to the genocide in Gaza that what was a required was a reckoning with the leadership of the protests, who are leading them into a dead end of moral appeals to the government and the Labour Party. This avoids the necessary total break with Labour, including the so-called left flank of the Labour Party, which is out now campaigning for a Starmer victory.

These forces seek to create either a protest vote, as a pressure tool, or at best a sort of lobby group in parliament which will act as Labours conscience.

Much of this is summed up in the figure of Jeremy Corbyn, whose retreats before the antisemitism slanders of his supporters and before the Blairite warmongers paved the way for the Zionist slander campaign now being mounted against millions of protesters

Were standing to fight for a different, socialist strategyone that is based on mobilising the international working class in a struggle against war and the imperialist powers.

Whereas Scripps identified himself with the SEP and a revolutionary socialist programme, Feinstein put himself forward always as an individual crusader for social justice, against racism, and in defence of the Palestinians. He stressed his opposition to apartheid in South Africa but did not identify with his groups call for a new Corbynite party. His was a commitment to the people of Camden and an opposition to parties telling said people what to do.

Scripps insisted that Trotskys theory of Permanent Revolution was the essential theoretical and programmatic basis for ending the oppression of the Palestinians, as part of the struggle for world socialism and the overthrow of capitalism.

He warned that NATO is speaking repeatedly about its readiness to use nuclear weapons. Jens Stoltenberg, the NATO Secretary General, just gave an interview today to the Telegraph talking about how more missiles were being brought out of storage and being prepared for use.

There are fundamental interests at stake for these powers in the conflict with Russia, which they encouraged, which they provoked, which they want. Because they want to use it as a way of grinding down the Putin governmentwhich we oppose entirely from a socialist standpointas a way of collapsing the Russian Federation and ensuring a very lucrative process of regime change. Thats essential for what they see as the fundamental conflict of this eraand they use these termswhich is the conflict between US imperialism and China.

The SEP was standing against Starmer to use this as a platform to raise the alarm, to raise these questions among politically concerned individuals like yourselves and say, youve got to start taking your stand on these major questions and world issues.

Andrew Feinstein speaking at the Camden hustings

Feinsteins response to Scripps exposition of the crisis of the capitalist system as the source of war, and Trotskyism as the only perspective offering the working class a viable revolutionary perspective, was to descend into sophistry:

Tom and I, while we probably have certain theoretical and analytical differences, certain slightly different opinions about certain individuals, the role of the trade unions and their functioning over the recent times, where I think were probably very close to each other is that we see the root of all of these problems is the transnational system. Of late neo-liberal capitalism and the imperialism that is the inevitable accompaniment of that.

So Im not going to go into that sort of theoretical and analytical base. Simply to say that I do feel the only way that were going to reform our politics is by fundamental structural change to the nature and functioning of our society and our politics.

What this translates to is that Feinstein supports Corbyns bankrupt programme of minimal reforms, defends the trade union bureaucracy, and is opposed to the revolutionary overthrow of capitalism and division of the world into rival nation states, which twice plunged the world into a catastrophe in the 20th centuryand threatens to do so again.

This was confirmed in the opposed responses of Scripps and Feinstein to a member of the audience who asked for a practical strategy and ways forward given the situation were likely to be in in three weeks time of a Starmer-led Labour government.

Feinstein kept his reply largely to the confines of Camden and said that if elected he would be accountable to the local electorate.

Scripps urged the building of a revolutionary party. He explained that Corbyns refusal to fight the Blairites played out in how the antisemitism campaign witch-hunt was allowed to run right through the Labour Party, played out in retreats made by Corbyn and the leadership over the Trident weapon system, membership of NATO, and by the order to Labour councils to impose austerity measures The antisemitism witch-hunt is an example of what happens when you do not stand on principles and wage a political fight against your opponents.

The issue facing millions was not a lack of determination to fight but that workers dont have their own socialist party. He noted of the strike wave that erupted in Britain in 2022-23, That shows there is a sentiment for a fight in the British working class, but these strikes were betrayed by the trade union bureaucracya downpayment on the part of the trade union leaderships for the partnership they would like to run with a Starmer Labour government.

There have to be rank-and-file organisations formed in neighbourhoods to oppose austerity measures and the cutting of services, in workplaces to organise strike activity, not just nationally, but internationally, because we confront transnational organisations, to prevent this continuous erosion of living standards. A working class movement had to be built to oppose genocide in Gaza and the danger of regional wars and a world at war

What is the thread that ties all of that together? It is a revolutionary party. A genuinely socialist party.

You have to have educated and engaged workers and young people. In every sphere of life, you can wage a fight for a clear and common world programme that is resolutely anti-imperialist, so that the working class can take on and overthrow these absolute criminals.

You can follow and support the Socialist Equality Partys campaign at socialism2024.org.uk
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 19. Kazakhstan plans to complete the introduction of 5G mobile communications by the end of 2025, said the Minister of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry of Kazakhstan, Zhaslan Madiev, at a government meeting, Trend reports.

"As directed by the head of state, the 5G mobile communication introduction is to be finished by the end of 2025. Generally speaking, cellular carriers will have made investments in the telecoms sector of around 450 billion tenge (almost $980 million) by 2027," the minister said.

Madiev noted that, regarding the further development of 5G technology, operators Kcell and Tele2 will continue to work to expand 5G coverage in the cities of Astana, Almaty, Shymkent, and regional centers.

"Today, 1,144 base stations have been installed in 20 cities," he said.

In telecommunications, 5G is the fifth-generation technology standard for cellular networks, which cellular phone companies began deploying worldwide in 2019, and is the successor to 4G technology that provides connectivity to most current mobile phones.

Like their predecessors, 5G networks are cellular networks, in which the service area is divided into small geographical areas called cells. All 5G wireless devices in a cell are connected to the Internet and the telephone network by radio waves through a base station and antennae in the cell.

The new networks are lightning fast, reaching speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second (Gbit/s) when there's only one user in the network.

5G has higher bandwidth to deliver faster speeds than 4G and can connect more devices, improving the quality of Internet services in crowded areas.
The University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) has been transformed into a battleground. On the one side, students and university workers are determined to continue their protests against the genocide in Gaza. On the other, Los Angeles police and private security forces, invited by university administration and Democratic Party figures at the city, state and national levels, are brutally punishing peaceful protesters.

A section of the picket line at University of California Santa Cruz, May 20, 2024

The repression accelerated after the United Auto Workers union shut down the historic strike by tens of thousands of UC academic workers demanding an end to the police crackdown on university workers and students. The UAW bureaucracy, which is allied with the Biden administration and never wanted the strike in the first place, bowed before a judges strikebreaking injunction and called off the weeks-long strike on June 9.

The heavy-handed response to the protests led to calls for a vote of no confidence in UCLA Chancellor Gene Block, who has been in that position since 2007. When the student protest encampments first emerged on April 25, Block declared them unlawful and promised disciplinary action for students who remained. Scores of students were expelled from the campus thereafter, unable to make use of their own dorms or campus meal services.

The no confidence vote ultimately failed in the academic senate. Block, however, had already announced his plans to retire and is slated to step down from his post next month. UCLA Provost Darnell Hunt will serve as interim chancellor until January 2025, when Julio Frenk, current president of the University of Miami, is scheduled to take over the position.

Frenk was unanimously selected by the UC Board of Regents, a governing body whose members are nominated by Governor Gavin Newsom and his predecessors, and confirmed by the Democratic-controlled California state Senate. The board members come from ultra-wealthy corporate interests in addition to seven ex-officio members, who either hold high office in Sacramento or in the UC system itself. The board of regents approved a starting base salary of $978,904 for the new chancellor.

Blocks departure is being hailed as a victory by pseudo-left apologists for the UAW bureaucracy, including the UAW Local 4811 Rank and File for a Democratic Union. The appointment of Frenk, however, is an indication that the university administration intends to continue its support for the Israeli government while further escalating brutal attacks on students and workers.

Frenk had previously served as Mexicos Secretary of Health under the right-wing Vincente Fox administration. He was also previously a senior fellow in the global health program of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundationa major advocate of public school privatization.

UCLA operates one of the largest university hospital systems in the United States with five hospitals and more than 280 clinics. The system has been plagued by dangerous levels of understaffing and overwork by nurses and medical staff, leading to multiple strikes over the course of the past decade.

As president at the University of Miami, Frenk was instrumental in pushing through large scale layoffs during the peak of coronavirus pandemic and can be expected to enact similar belt-tightening measures at the Los Angeles campus and the hospital system itself.

At the time of the Miami layoffs in May 2020, he implicitly admitted that the pandemic was being seized upon as a pretext for large-scale job cuts. If you have some of those worst-case scenarios, he said, you cannot do this kind of careful analysis of opportunities for furloughs when you already have an emergency upon you. You have to be one step ahead of the crisis.

Three years later, Frenk was among the first US university presidents to condemn the October 7 Palestinian uprising. Demonstrating his skills as a political operator, Frenk released the statement of condemnation to preempt inevitable campus outrage over the subsequent Israeli response.

The university president admitted that he had exercised an exception to institutional restraint wherein university officials normally do not comment on political events to prevent the possibility that a space of silence would be filled by other voices.

Frenk then told the student club, freedom of expression has clear rules and clear limits. Number one: no hate speech, no incitement to violence, and no public display of support to organizations that have been officially declared by our government as terrorist organizations. He continued, The attack and targeting of innocent civilians by a terrorist organization violated a foundational value of universities everywhere to promote knowledge and understanding as a way of resolving complex issues.

Naturally, the UCLA chancellor-to-bes supposed commitment to knowledge and understanding is not at all bothered by the Israel Defense Forces deliberately targeting universities in the Gaza Strip to the point that they have now all been completely destroyed.

At the same time, American and European universities have been targeted for police state repression and a non-stop propaganda campaign to slander students and silence opposition to the US-backed genocide and American imperialisms expanding wars for global domination.

The Biden administration and both parties in Congress have repeatedly promoted the big lie that campus protests are anti-semitic even though large numbers of students involved in the protests are Jewish.

At the same time, congressional leaders have threatened to utilize the Internal Revenue Service to penalize university finances, to withhold federal student aid, crackdown on immigrant students, and withhold a host of scholarships and research grants to universities that are not aggressive enough against protesters. The message is increasingly clear, toe the State Department line and suspend, arrest and beat up troublesome students or face the consequences.

This response is an indication that the ruling class is taking the protests extremely seriously and does not expect them to disappear in the 2024-2025 academic year. Under these circumstances, it is absolutely critical that workers and student youth adopt a political perspective to successfully fight back.

The struggle against war and state repression is above all a political struggle, which cannot be limited to the campuses. It requires a consistent turn by students to the working class, the social force that has the power to halt the production and shipment of weapons to Israel and other US client states.

But this requires a relentless struggle against the trade union bureaucracy, the Democratic Party and its apologists in the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), the Party of Socialism and Liberation (PSL) and other pseudo-left organizations. These groups keep young people and workers tied to the Democratic Party by promoting the claim that campus protests will pressure this imperialist party to change its ways.

The lessons of the UC strike are not that political strikes are futile. It is that such struggles cannot be left in the hands of the pro-war and pro-capitalist trade union bureaucracy. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) and the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) are building the revolutionary leadership necessary to build a mass anti-war movement based on the working class and the struggle for international socialism.

As the ruling class resorts to ever more brutal forms of repression, it is increasingly urgent that workers and youth break free of the shackles of the union bureaucracy and build new organizations of struggle, controlled by the rank and file and independent of the capitalist parties.

To join the fight for rank-and-file committee, complete the form below.
In a staggeringbut unsurprisingdisplay of hypocrisy, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Russia of committing genocide in Ukraine last weekend even as his government continues to back Israels genocidal bloodbath in Gaza.

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during the closing press conference of the Ukraine peace summit in Obburgen, Switzerland, Sunday, June 16, 2024 [AP Photo/Laurent Cipriani]

After conferring with the other G-7 leaders in Italy on their plans to escalate the US-NATO-instigated war on Russia and their joint efforts to militarily threaten and economically hobble China, Trudeau travelled to the Burgenstock Resort in Switzerland for a grossly misnamed Summit on Peace in Ukraine. Convened by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the summit was aimed at providing political cover and rallying support for an expansion of the war, including missile attacks inside Russia and the deployment of NATO forces inside Ukraine.

Canadas prime minister used the occasion to further demonize the Putin regime. He cited accusations that some Ukrainian children have been forcibly removed from their homes to Russia in the course of the conflict as evidence that Moscow is guilty of an element of genocide.

Regardless of what a given person or a given country around the world might think of the causes of the war, or the responsibility that Russia wields, everyone can agree that taking kids away from their families, trying to erase their language, their culturethats an element of genocide, Trudeau said on Sunday. Thats pure colonialism. These are things that Russia needs to be accountable for.

This was followed up by a photo-op with Zelensky, who presides over a far-right martial-law regime, and other of his imperialist sponsors, including the French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. In the midst of the photo-op, Trudeau blurted out Slava Ukraini! Geroiam Slava! (Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes!) a chant popularized by the Nazi-collaborator Stepan Bandera and his Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN-B) during World War II. Fascistic and right-wing elements of the Ukrainian diaspora are a key constituency of the Trudeau government. Chrystia Freeland, the granddaughter of a prominent Ukrainian Nazi collaborator, is Trudeaus deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister.

Trudeaus trade union and New Democratic Party-backed minority Liberal government is a leading backer of the far-right Zelensky regime and the fascist forces on which it is based. Since 2022 Ottawa has committed more than C$4 billion in military aid to Kiev, while pledging to fund the war for as long as it takes. Since 2015, it has provided training to tens of thousands of Ukrainian military forces, including neo-Nazi elements.

It was no coincidence then that 98-year-old Yaroslav Hunka, a veteran of Adolf Hitlers Waffen SS which played a leading role in the Holocaust, was invited by Trudeaus office to attend Parliament last September during a visit by Zelensky and honored with a standing ovation by all those assembled. In the face of an international outcry, the entire political establishment quickly backpedaled and tried to claim its celebration of a Nazi war criminal was a mistake. In reality, the episode exposed both the sordid history of Canadian imperialisms alliance with the far-right Ukrainian nationalists who collaborated with the Nazis in their war of annihilation against the Soviet Union and genocide of European Jewry, and the current reliance of the NATO powers on these forces political descendants in their proxy war against Russia.

In April, the Canadian-backed Zelensky regime arrested Ukrainian socialist Bogdan Syrotiuk on bogus charges for opposing the war and fighting to unite workers in Ukraine and Russia against all the belligerent governments and capitalist ruling classes. Following his arrest the World Socialist Web Site has been banned in the country.

While Trudeau tries to muster support for the NATO-instigated Ukraine war with claims that Russia is committing genocide, he has refused to demand that Israel immediately halt its relentless bombardment and starvation of the people of Gaza, let alone denounced the Netanyahu regime and Israeli military for perpetrating a genocide.

Since the wars outbreak on Oct. 7, the Trudeau government has sent over C$28 million in military aid to Israel. And since forming government in 2015, military exports to the country have exceeded C$114 million.

In just nine months the Israeli Defence Forces have killed more than 37,000 Gazans, mostly women and children. Tent camps have been bombed, almost the entire population displaced, and every university, nearly all hospitals and most residences damaged or destroyed in the narrow, densely populated enclave. Far-right Israeli officials have made clear their genocidal intent and the Netanyahu government has enforced a blockade on food, water and medical supplies, pushing the population to the brink of famine.

While video footage provides daily evidence of an ongoing genocide, Trudeau, the rest of Canadas political establishment and the corporate media recycle Israeli government and IDF claims that Israel is acting in self-defence and that the mass slaughter of Palestinian civilians is not deliberate. At they same time, they smear those taking to Canadas streets or occupying university campuses to protests the genocide as contributing to a purported resurgence of antisemitism.

Trudeau and Foreign Minister Melanie Joly like to cloak Canadian imperialisms predatory actions and ambitions with declamations about human rights and the importance of international law. But even while hypocritically claiming to support the work of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), they signaled their dismay when it chose to hear the case South Africa has brought before it charging Israel with genocide. Similarly, when the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) applied for warrants for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant last month, Trudeau called the move troubling.

Trudeaus Liberals worked with the NDP in parliament in March to transform an NDP-initiated resolution ostensibly denouncing the IDFs onslaught on Gaza into an endorsement of Israels genocide.

There is no contradiction between the ease with which Trudeau accuses Russia of genocide on specious grounds, while he turns a blind eye to the obvious horrors in Gaza. He is pursuing on both fronts the interests of Canadian imperialismcasting Ukraine on the one hand as the innocent victims of Russian aggression and on the other backing Israels aggression against the Palestinians to the hilt and joining in the threats of wider regional war against Iran. Meanwhile, the Canadian navy has joined in the military build up and sabre-rattling against China across the Asia-Pacific.

While he routinely mouths humanitarian platitudes, Trudeau has made clear that Canadian imperialism is intent on securing its place alongside its imperialist allies in the US and Europe in the developing global war for the imperialist redivision of the world. Appeals to this government to change its stripes are a dead end. Those opposed to the genocide in Gaza, the war in Ukraine and danger of nuclear war must turn to the working class, which alone has the power to paralyze the war machines of the capitalist powers, in the fight to build a mass international antiwar movement on the basis of socialist internationalism.
Left: George Lattimer ; Right: Jamaal Bowman [AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey and Mark Lennihan]

In one of this years most expensive and heavily publicized US primary contests to choose candidates for the November elections, Westchester County Executive George Latimer is attempting to unseat two-term Congressman and Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) member Jamaal Bowman in the June 25 election. Early voting has begun in New Yorks 16th Congressional District, which includes Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, Yonkers and a small portion of the Bronx.

The district is considered a safe Democratic seat, meaning that the victor in next weeks vote is almost certain to take office next January.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the right-wing Zionist lobby that supports the fascistic Netanyahu regime in Israel, has already spent over $12 million to defeat Bowman. Through its affiliated political action committee, the United Democracy Project, which allows it to raise unlimited amounts from individuals and corporations, it plans to spend up to $100 million this year in this and other election races.

Unlimited spending by the ruling elite is usually decisive, especially in elections in which a majoritythe poor, the working class, the angry, disaffected and alienateddont vote. Indeed, polls in the Latimer-Bowman contest in the wake of heavy television and social media spending by AIPAC and others show the challenger with a 48-to-31 percent lead over Bowman, with the balance undecided.

AIPAC knows that both the Democrats and the Republicans support Israel and its genocide in Gaza. However, it is targeting those Democrats who have expressed criticism of Israels actions, while fully backing the Biden administration. Special attention is being focused on the Squad, the five DSA members and supporters in Congress.

Even though the DSA has made clear its support for IsraelAlexandria Ocasio-Cortez recently hosted two Zionist lobbyists on her Congressional X site for a friendly discussion on their version of the threat of antisemitismAIPAC and the billionaires and other ruling class layers it speaks for consider the Democratic lefts insufficiently loyal.

The New York contest is not the only one in which AIPAC is intervening aggressively. It was unable to defeat Congresswoman Summer Lee in Pittsburgh earlier this year, but it has targeted Cori Bush in Missouri and Ilhan Omar in Minneapolis, who both face August primary contests.

Support for the Gaza genocide is an overriding issue for the Zionist lobby, but it is undoubtedly getting huge sums for its campaign from billionaires who also want to ensure that they continue to pay little or nothing in taxes. The same elements want to unleash the police against protesters and against the working class as a whole. AIPAC is backed by major Republican funders like Bernard Marcus, the founder of Home Depot.

Latimer is being touted as a supposed centrist or even a progressive Democrat, a politician whose record on major Democratic Party issues is unchallengeable. The so-called progressive Latimer has, however, labeled the DSA extremist, a description along the lines of Trumps regular fascistic attacks on Biden and the Democrats as Marxists and communists.

The White House has remained silent on the primary contest, but the Democratic establishments support for Latimer was signaled by the announcement that Hillary Clinton, former First Lady, presidential candidate and Secretary of State, was backing his campaign.

Bowman, a former middle-school principal from the Bronx, has been endorsed by Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. He also has support from a number of elected officials, including House Majority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who succeeded Nancy Pelosi last year. The support of Jeffries and others, however, is reported to be pro forma for sitting incumbents.

Bowman has been on the defensive on the issue of antisemitism. Like the DSA as a whole, he has concentrated on denying the charges of antisemitism, rather than showing that it is his Zionist opponents who are among the main allies of antisemites around the world, and are also responsible for stoking antisemitism because of their decades-long campaign to equate Judaism with the crimes of Israel.

Bowman finally raised the issue of genocide in recent months, after the Netanyahu regime had been charged with war crimes in the International Criminal Court, and after human rights organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International had adopted that term. Recently, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories released a report declaring, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the threshold indicating the commission of the crime of genocide  has been met.

Bowmans own criticisms of Israel are thoroughly insincere and hypocritical. A few years ago he voted for US funding of the Iron Dome, the air defense system employed by Israel. So great was the outcry against this within the DSA that Bowman stopped paying dues to the organization, and it was reported that he had let his membership lapse or that he had left the DSA. Now, however, a few weeks before the primary vote, the New York Times reports that Bowman and the DSA had declared that it had all been a misunderstandingthat Bowman had never really left, and that he could and did make up his lapsed payments. The DSA is going all out to reelect the Congressman.

Moreover, Bowman, like the rest of the DSA and the entire Democratic Party, fully supports the US-NATO war against Russia over Ukraine. He has repeatedly voted to finance the escalation of the proxy war, which threatens to develop into a nuclear conflict.

It is perhaps not surprising that the issue of race has been injected into the Bowman-Latimer campaign. Rather than focusing on the fundamental issues, including the role of Zionism and the drive towards world war being led by Biden, Bowman has emphasized the alleged racism of his opponents supporters. Latimer has been even more crude, claiming that Bowman [doesnt] mention people who are not Black and brown. Openly appealing to Islamophobia, Latimer claimed in a recent debate that Bowmans true constituency is Dearborn, Michigan, referring to that citys large Arab-American population.

Perhaps the most significant reply by Bowman to the attempt to unseat him is the full-page advertisements in some local newspapers just before the beginning of early voting. The ads do not mention Gaza or the US-NATO war against Russia over Ukraine. They make no mention of the danger of a third world war, or the growing threat of fascism.

The main headline instead declares, My Agenda is Bidens Agenda. Thus, the DSA and its member-Congressman solidarize themselves with the White House, which is responsible for the proxy war in Europe and the massacres, starvation and unspeakable suffering in the Middle East. Of course, the fact that Bowman is endorsing Biden is not news, but the conscious decision to headline it is his way of spelling out his loyalty to US imperialism.

The right-wing Zionist attack on Bowman has only served to further expose the role of his DSA backers. They are a faction of the Democratic Party, and their main job is to block the path to the political independence of the working class, to keep the Democrats and the capitalist two-party system alive. They stand with this party of imperialism against the Palestinian people and against the international working class as a whole.
On June 13, the recently created pressure group Abandon Biden held an online presidential forum that it presented as an opportunity to hear from candidates opposed to the genocide in Gaza. Its central purpose, however, was to promote the Democratic Party and the capitalist two-party system.

Promotion for "Abandon Biden" virtual town hall.

The event featured three candidates for US president: Jill Stein (Green Party), Cornel West (independent) and Claudia De la Cruz (Party for Socialism and Liberation-PSL). Socialist Equality Party candidate Joseph Kishore reported that the organizers ignored repeated requests from the SEP campaign to participate.

The deliberate decision by Abandon Biden not to invite Kishore reflects the upper-middle class and Democratic Party politics of the group.

Abandon Biden was founded in November 2023 after the Biden administration failed to call for a ceasefire in Gaza by October 31, the deadline the organizers had given for this action. The entire purpose of the group, as explained by its founding members, has been to punish Biden, the individual, by withholding votes for him in the November 2024 election.

In repeated interviews and in last weeks town hall, representatives from the group made clear they were not opposed to the Democratic Party as a whole. Before bringing on De la Cruz, an Abandon Biden representative revealed that the group had endorsed and raised funds for Jen Perelman. Perelman is a Florida Democrat who was previously endorsed by businessman Andrew Yang and is attempting, for the second time, to unseat the Democratic incumbent, Representative Debbie Wasserman-Schultz.

The co-chair of the national Abandon Biden campaign is Dr. Hassan Abdel Salam, who previously taught at the University of Minnesota. In an interview with the Minneapolis Star Tribune earlier this year, Abdel Salam said the group was organizing in nine states in order to send a message to Biden that defending genocide could lead to your defeat, so beware. He continued, Thats my goal ... promote the message throughout the nation and ensure its a consistent one.

Several of the board members are associated with the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), which hailed the election victory of Biden in 2020 and praised Biden for building an inclusive election campaign focused on the unity of our nation. This includes Sadia Tarannum, a digital product consultant and board member of of the Minnesota chapter of CAIR, and Jaylani Hussein, the executive director of CAIR in Minnesota.

Khalid Turaani is also a board member of Abandon Biden and was recently hired on by CAIR-Ohio to be its new executive director, overseeing operations in Columbus, Cincinnati and Dayton. In a June press release announcing the hiring of Turaani, CAIR touted his more than 15 years of executive experience in public affairs and advocacy in Washington, D.C., and Europe ... along with a decade-long tenure as CEO in the private sector.

Finally, Rabiul Chowdhury, 28, is the co-chair of the national Abandon Biden movement and its Pennsylvania chapter. Chowdhury is a member of CAIR-Philadelphia executive committee and currently works as a corporate auditor and risk manager at SAP. Chowdhury also currently serves as a member of Pennsylvania Democratic Governor Josh Shapiros Advisory Commission on Asian American and Pacific Islander Affairs.

Dr. Abdel Salams opening report at the forum made clear the outlook of the organization. He explained that the goal of the group was to punish Biden and get the blame or the credit for him losing the election.

He claimed that this would increase the power of people of conscience and ensure that genocide will never be again on the ballot. He claimed that by punishing Biden, a reckoning will happen in the Democratic Party that will ensure that we have a more pro-Palestinian, anti-genocide party by 2028, and that the Republicans swing in our direction when they see the power lies in the hands of these groups, people of conscience in the swing states.

He encouraged our fellow Americans to join us ... as we work hard to transform the Democratic Party and to bring Republicans towards declaring peace and the end of occupation. He concluded his remarks by calling on our allies from all backgrounds, Gen Z, Latinos, progressives and libertarians to end the brutal autocracy.

Responding to these statements, SEP presidential candidate Kishore wrote on X as the forum was happening that its perspective is to Abandon Biden, but above all keep faith in the Democratic Party, the Republican Party and the capitalist two-party system!

The policy of the Biden administration in arming, financing and politically justifying the genocide is not a mistake, it is an expression of the interests of the American ruling class. And it is part of a global war, including the US-NATO war against Russia, which goes completely unmentioned.

None of the presidential candidates who participated challenged the basic orientation of the organizers. Indeed, while running as independent candidates, their own perspective is essentially the same as Abandon Biden.

In her comments, PSL candidate Claudia De la Cruz attacked US capitalism and US imperialism and pointed to the bourgeois nationalist regime in Cuba as an example of what socialism could look like, especially in the core of the empire. She lamented that we cannot fight the threat of fascism with a Democratic Party that is more willing to concede to genocide and more willing to concede to conservative politics than to actually allow any type of progressive advancement within the party.

The PSL and De la Cruz have participated in the organization of protests aimed at appealing to the war criminals responsible for the genocide in Gaza.

The PSL and its many offshoots, including BreakThrough News and the ANSWER Coalition, organized the Peoples Conference for Palestine in Detroit last month, which featured as a special guest Democratic Representative Rashida Tlaib.

Tlaib, like every other Democrat, voted in favor of over $61 billion in military funding to Ukraine and repeatedly voted to install as speaker of the House New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, an ardent supporter of Israel.

In his contribution, Cornel West said his campaign was about reintroducing America to the best of itself, which for him begins with the Black Freedom Movement. West emphasized, as he does in almost every appearance, that he starts on the chocolate side of town.

Wests appearance at the town hall came less than 10 days after he participated in a nearly two-hour-long interview with right-wing commentor Mario Nawfal. West spent most of the interview appealing for support from the Nawfals fascistic audience by touting his opposition to Karl Marx and scientific socialism and his support for closed borders and capitalism.

Speaking at the town hall, West stressed his support for identity politics. He said his campaign was different than the others because I make white supremacy very, very crucial and central to my campaign. As far as ending the genocide, West opined thats a sign of an empire in profound spiritual decay and moral decadence ... we have to be able to reintroduce America to the best of itself.

Wests perspective is that somehow the ruling class and its parties will come to see the light through some sort of process of moral renewal.

For her part, Stein thanked the organizers of Abandon Biden for their incredible courage to really confront the fundamental corruption of our political system, which is really captured by empire in a way that Gaza is the, you know, really kind of the essential and just a tragic example of, but the problem is not limited to Gaza.

In her interview, Stein advanced the middle-class reformist politics of the Green Party, including advocating the passage of legislation that would clean the US political system.

Inadvertently revealing the futility and limited character of her perspective and that of the Green Party, Stein, as an example, said:

I was part of a coalition that passed campaign finance finance reform. ... We passed it through a large coalition. ... And what happened, the progressive so-called Democratic Party in Massachusetts repealed the law on a voice vote.



But you know, that is, the possibility is still there.





As a capitalist politician, the only time the word socialism came up in her interview is when Stein hailed the Green Partys previous coalitions with the Democratic Socialists, a faction of the Democratic Party.

In terms of US foreign policy, Stein ignored the role of the Greens in Germany and Australia in backing US imperialist wars, especially in Ukraine. In Germany, where the Greens are part of the coalition government, Foreign Minister and Green Party member Annalena Baerbock has justified arming Ukraine with advanced weapons and heavy battle tanks under the banner of human rights.

In her comments, Stein said current US foreign policy is based on military might rather than, you know, it needs to be international law, human rights, and diplomacy. That should be the basis of foreign policy.

There is enormous anger among millions of workers and youth, many of whom may have previously voted for Joe Biden, over his and the Democratic Partys unwavering support for the genocide in Gaza. In order to end the genocide, however, this anger must be channeled and harnessed towards eliminating the source of the genocidethe capitalist system.

US-NATO support for Israels final solution of the Palestinian question is not a mistake or the result of the moral decay of this or that individual. It is an expression of the material class interests of the American ruling class, which sees the colonization and subjugation of Gaza as integral to its future plans for the region and the world. This includes expanding the US-NATO global war against Russia, with future conflict against Iran and China.

The only social force capable of putting a stop the genocide and American imperialisms plans for World War III is the working class, united on an anti-capitalist, internationalist and socialist program against all capitalist politicians and governments.

By excluding SEP presidential candidate Joseph Kishore from the town hall, the organizers of Abandon Biden sought to block this revolutionary perspective from the over 600 people who attended the online event. In doing so, as Kishore noted, the organizers revealed that they are oriented not to the working class, but to the Democratic Party and the capitalist statethat is, the perpetrators of the genocide.
World Refugee Day 2024, the United Nations annual event on June 20, sets a new record for the number of refugees, at more than 41 million. Under international law, refugees are people who are forced to flee their home countries to escape persecution or a serious threat to their life, physical integrity or freedom.

When the UN established the Refugee Convention in 1951 to protect the rights of refugees in Europe in the aftermath of World War II, there were 2.1 million refugees. In 1967, the Convention was expanded to cover displacement throughout the world. By 1980, the number had surpassed 10 million and in 1990, 20 million.

Sudanese refugees displaced by the conflict in Sudan gather to receive food staples from aid agencies at the Metche Camp in eastern Chad, March 5, 2024 [AP Photo/Jsarh Ngarndey Ulrish]

The US-led invasions of Afghanistan in 2001 and Iraq in 2003, along with the civil wars in South Sudan and Syria, and other wars, caused the number of refugees to surpass 30 million by the end of 2021. The wars in Ukraine and Sudan are leading some of the fastest growing refugee crises since World War II. Around 5.7 million people were forced to flee Ukraine in less than a year. Nearly 6.5 million people have crossed into neighbouring countries, including Poland, Hungary and Moldova.

Around 72 percent of all refugees came from just five countries: Afghanistan (6.4 million), Syria (6.4 million), Venezuela (6.1 million), Ukraine (6 million) and Palestine (6 million). Most refugees live in neighbouring countries, with Iran hosting 3.8 million, Turkey 3.3 million, Colombia 2.9 million, Germany 2.6 million and Pakistan 2 million. Nearly all the refugees living in Iran and Pakistan are Afghans, while most refugees living in Turkey are Syrians.

Other countries hosting refugees include Lebanon, Jordan, Kenya and Uganda, despite their very limited resources. Even war-torn countries such as Yemen are hosting people fleeing conflict in the Horn of Africa via the Red Sea. The number of migrants arriving in Yemen in an effort to reach Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States rose from 27,000 in 2021 to more than 90,000 in 2023, according to the UNs International Organisation of Migration (IOM), which estimates that about 380,000 migrants are currently in Yemen.

Europe and North America, with their vastly greater resources, are doing everything in their power to abrogate the Refugee Convention, turning away those seeking refuge from violence and making it all but impossible to seek asylum in their countries. Last year, 4,114 people died or were reported missing while trying to cross the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, according to the IOM.

But these 41 million souls are just some of those driven from their homes. Last year the number of people forced to flee their homes due to wars, conflicts and persecution rose to an all-time high of at least 117.3 million, and was expected to reach 120 million by last April, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This is an increase of 8 percent, or 8.8 million people, compared to 2022, continuing 12 years of consecutive rises.

Of these 117 million people, 68.3 million were internally displaced (IDPs) within their own countries. The number of asylum seekers has risen from 4.1 million in 2020 to 5.4 million in 2022, an increase of more than 30 percent, according to the IOMs latest World Migration Report.

It is not just from war-torn countries like Syria and Afghanistan that people are fleeing. Of particular note is the number of Turkish citizensmore than 100,000who applied for asylum in European Union (EU) countries last year, an 82 percent increase from 2022, although 75 percent of applications were rejected. They now form the third largest nationality seeking protection in the EU after Syrians and Afghans. Last year, around 15,500 Turkish citizens were arrested while irregularly crossing the US-Mexico border, up from around 1,400 in 2021.

The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centres (IDMC) annual Global Report notes that in addition to the 68.3 million IDPs due to violent conflicts, a further 7.7 million were displaced by floods, storms, earthquakes, wildfires and other disasters at the end of 2023. Some 148 countries, including some high-income countries, reported disaster displacement.

Climate change is making disasters more frequent and intense. Storm Daniel in the Mediterranean officially killed 4,000 people, with 10,000-100,000 people missing in Libya.

Globally, the numbers of forcibly displaced persons are staggering. They are the outcome of wars and conflicts frequently stoked or directly waged by the imperialist powers or their local allies, as well as natural disasters created or exacerbated by the activities of the worlds giant corporations and their governments.

In all, one in every 69 people worldwide remain forcibly displaced. This is more than the entire 117 million population of the Philippines, the worlds 13th most populous country, or more than 1.5 percent of the worlds 7.9 billion population.

According to the UNHCR, the number of those internally displaced within their own countries reached 68.3 million at the end of 2023, nearly double the one in 125 people displaced a decade ago. Nearly half of all IDPs live in sub-Saharan Africa, forced to flee conflicts that are barely reported in the Western media.

The Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip has uprooted at least 1.7 million Palestinians, or 75 percent of the Strips population. Most of them have been forced to move several times.

The wars in Sudan, Gaza and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) accounted for nearly two-thirds of the new displacements. At the end of 2023, fighting between rival factions of the Sudanese military that are backed by regional powers had forced 10.8 million Sudanese to flee their homes, one of the largest numbers ever recorded in a single country.

Some 13 years after the CIA, Saudi Arabia, the Gulf States, Turkey and Israel backed rival militias in a bid to topple the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad, Syria remains the worlds largest displacement crisis, with 13.8 million forcibly displaced in and outside the country.

The suffering encompassed by these statistics is impossible to fully grasp, but international funding for humanitarian relief is a pittance. While military spending risesin 2023, the worlds total military outlay was $2.4 trillionthe UN and other aid organizations were only able to rustle up $24 billion for humanitarian aid. This was just 43 percent of the amount required to meet the most urgent needs of hundreds of millions of people.

The international media have barely mentioned the lack of funding, or the latest displacement figures. Wars, conflicts and disasters and their ensuing misery are not only normalized but have become preferred policy for the major imperialist powers and their puppet regimes in the worlds poorest countries.

The global refugee population is set to reach a new record by the end of 2024 as the US and NATO expand their proxy war in Ukraine, and as Israel, backed by Washington and the European powers, continues its genocide against the Palestinians, opening up new fronts against Lebanon, Syria and Iran. The ever-deepening crisis of capitalism poses the urgent necessity of building a global anti-war, anti-capitalist movement and a socialist leadership in the working class that will put an end to imperialist war and poverty.
Speaking from the East Room of the White House on Tuesday, President Biden announced an executive action he claimed would offer potential citizenship to immigrants without legal status who are married to American citizens.

President Joe Biden walks off after speaking about an executive order in the East Room at the White House in Washington, Tuesday, June 4, 2024. [AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta]

Calling it a common sense fix to the fact that half a million married and undocumented immigrants have been systematically denied their basic right to US citizenship, Biden is launching the program as a transparent electoral maneuver.

The primary objective is to cover up Bidens endorsement of the far-right policy of a crackdown and closing of the southern border and his implementation on June 4 of a Trump-style executive order that effectively abolishes the right to asylum in the US.

In that action, Biden attacked both national and international law that establishes the right of refugees to seek asylum in the US regardless of where or how they enter the country. The White House attack on asylum seekers is part of a growing assault by the Democratic Party, including the recent evictions of migrants from government-run homeless shelters in New York, Denver and other US cities.

According to an official fact sheet released by the White House, the new program for spouses is extremely limited in scope. To be eligible, noncitizens mustas of June 17, 2024have resided in the United States for 10 or more years and be legally married to a U.S. citizen, while satisfying all applicable legal requirements. The statement does not give details or explain the applicable legal requirements. The Department of Homeland Security will review each case individually and, if a noncitizen qualifies, they will be afforded a three-year period to apply for permanent residency.

The plan also offers 50,000 noncitizen children under age 21 with a non-citizen parent who married an American before they were 18 to apply for US citizenship.

Immigration rights experts have pointed to other elements of the program that expose it as a trap, such as undocumented individuals who come forward to apply being denied and turned over to deportation authorities. The rules also contain criminal record bars, and they do not address the situation facing thousands of married couples who have already been separated.

Significantly, the White House fact sheet on Bidens supposed plan to Keep Families Together is largely devoted to explaining his actions taken to secure the border, including by barring asylum seekers from entering the country and deploying a record number of law enforcement personnel at the border.

As CNN reported, The action is aimed at appealing to key Latino constituencies in battleground states, including Arizona, Nevada and Georgia, that will be crucial for Bidens chances to claim a second term.

It is not clear that the program will ever be enforced given the short amount of time before the 2024 presidential election, and the likelihood that an injunction from a right-wing judge will block it from going into effect.

While Biden said the administrations priority is keeping couples together when they are married, where one spouse is a citizen and the other is undocumented, White House lawyers argued the exact opposite position before the US Supreme Court in Department of State v. Munoz eight weeks ago.

In that case Sandra Munoz, a US citizen, has been unable to live with her husband Luis Asencio-Cordero for nearly nine years because immigration officials in the Obama, Trump and Biden administrations have prevented them from doing so. A Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in 2022 that Munozs rights had been violated because the government refused to give the specific reason that her husbands visa had been denied.

In a clear example of its right-wing anti-immigrant positions, the Biden administration refused to accept the decision of the Ninth Circuit and appealed the case to the Supreme Court. During oral arguments, the White House lawyer took the position that Munoz had no right to challenge the denial of her husbands visa, and did not have a right to be provided with a reason why.

The Biden administrations representative also appealed to the Supreme Courts far-right majority to adopt an interpretation of the so-called doctrine of consular non-reviewability that protects the political branchs ability to protect the nations borders and decide who is going to be admitted to the United States without judicial oversight for cases involving foreign citizens who are outside the United States.
International Brotherhood of Teamsters president Sean O'Brien and Amazon Labor Union president Chris Smalls. [AP Photo/Andrew Harnik/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez]

On Monday, Amazon Labor Union members at at the JFK8 warehouse in New York City voted to approve a merger with the Teamsters union announced by ALU officials earlier this month. The vote was 878 in favor to 14 against, meaning only a small fraction of the warehouses 5,000 to 8,000 employees participated.

With the merger, Amazon workers will now be directly confronting a Teamsters apparatus that is helping to enforce mass automation and layoffs, including at one of Amazon's main competitors, UPS. A national sellout contract pushed through last year by the Teamsters bureaucracy has paved the way for over 12,000 layoffs and plans for hundreds of facility closures. UPS managers have cited labor certainty provided by the deal as a key factor in its drive to automate everything.

The Teamsters bureaucracy, as with their counterparts in every other major trade union, are also totally integrated with the two corporate parties. This includes ties with the extreme Republican right. Teamsters General President Sean OBrien met with would-be Fuhrer Donald Trump privately multiple times this year and the union has donated to a Republican Senator centrally involved in Trumps January 6, 2021 coup attempt.

The merger poses the need for a joint struggle of Amazon and UPS workers against the ruthless global logistics firms and to transfer decision making and power from the corrupt Teamsters apparatus to rank-and-file workers. One New York City UPS worker said: What I see is that they are trying to make money for themselves without care for the workers. We can't let that happen. The union doesnt protect anyone anymore, but their own pocket.

A member of the UPS Rank-and-File Committee who also works in New York said: I think the union is more corrupt than the companies and are trying to get as much as they can possibly before we get sick of them.

The merger is the inevitable outcome of the ALUs leaders political orientation. A little more than two years ago, ALU won the first-ever union election at an Amazon facility in the United States. Its ability to attract support from workers was largely due to its presentation of itself as a more democratic and rank-and-file alternative to the bureaucratically-controlled unions of the AFL-CIO.

The vote came several months after a unionization campaign at an Amazon warehouse in Alabama by the RWDSU union, which attracted high-profile political support from the Biden administration, but which ended in humiliating defeat.

The World Socialist Web Site commented at the time: Bidens intervention at Amazon is part of a broader strategy of promoting the unions and integrating them ever more directly into the state apparatus and corporate management. A major factor in this strategy is the preparation of American society for war, in which the pro-capitalist unions will be critical in promoting national chauvinism and suppressing the class struggle.

The RWDSUs debacle, followed by the victory of ALU, was a reflection that workers are deeply distrustful of, and alienated from the union bureaucracy and both capitalist parties. It showed they are searching for a new means, free of the control of the apparatus, to fight against the exploitation of giant corporations.

JFK8 warehouse in Staten Island.

But the ALU founders have no strategy on which Amazon workers can fight the giant corporations. Instead, within days of its victory, the unions fledgling officials began accepting massive financial and institutional support from the more established union bureaucracies, including hundreds of thousands of dollars, free Manhattan office space and other perks. This included the Teamsters, which hoped to use support for the ALU to build credibility for its own attempts to extend its organization into Amazon, and create the same corrupt relations with management that it enjoys at UPS and other companies.

ALU officials also traveled to the White House to meet with President Biden and began establishing close political ties to the Democratic Party, especially pseudo-left promoters of the union bureaucracy like the Labor Notes publication. ALU leader Chris Smalls shared a stage at the latters 2022 conference alongside Teamsters head Sean OBrien.

The ALU claimed it was possible to combine these opportunistic maneuvers with workplace democracy. But the WSWS warned at the time that There are two ways forward for workers at the Amazon [warehouse]. One way is the direction the ALU is taking, which is a turn to the AFL-CIO. This leads inevitably to the bureaucratic suppression of the initiative of rank-and-file Amazon workers and the betrayal of their demands. The other way is for workers to develop their independent organization and initiative and build a powerful industrial and political counteroffensive of the working class.

This prediction has been confirmed. Within weeks of the victory at JFK8, the ALU suffered a series of high-profile disasters, including at the LDJ5 warehouse across the street, after campaigns leveraging the organizations newfound institutional support. Meanwhile, any connection with rank-and-file Amazon workers have long evaporated. A mass membership meeting last year attracted more reporters and Democratic officials than it did any actual workers.

As for workers, they are no closer to winning their demands, including those raised by ALU in the course of its initial election campaign.

The growing anger and distrust among rank-and-file workers, combined with its own internal crisis, have only compelled the upstart ALU bureaucrats to establish a firmer basis of support within the established apparatus. The organization is reportedly in deep financial crisis and is wracked by internal factional conflict. Both the dominant faction led by current president Smalls and a so-called reform group negotiated separately with the Teamsters.

Meanwhile, the Biden administrations corporatist policy, which animated its support for the RWDSUs campaign, has been greatly expanded. The US is engaged in a new global conflict to dominate the worlds resources and supply chains, spanning from the proxy war in Ukraine to the Israeli genocide in Gaza which Washington is funding.

American imperialism and its NATO allies are on the cusp of deploying combat troops against Russia, raising the danger of nuclear war. Massive new tariffs being slapped on Chinese exports are part of the advanced preparations of the economy for war against China.

The whole of society is being placed on a war footing, with the unions playing a central role. Over the past two years, Biden has relied on the union bureaucracy to prevent strikes and enforce sellouts in industries critical for national security. This includes in 2022, when the Teamsters helped to prevent and pre-emptively ban a strike on the railroads, as well as in oil refineries, the docks, the auto industry and others.

In the Teamsters, the UAW and other unions, these policies are being carried out by reform leaders, who were brought to power through state interventions aimed at overcoming deep rank-and-file distrust and which enable the bureaucracy to play its assigned role.

United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain is a key ally of Biden, whose support in the upcoming elections is faltering due to his administrations involvement in the Gaza genocide. While Fain is hated for his role in helping enforce mass layoffs under a new auto contract, he has tried to suppress campus strikes by UAW members against the genocide.

President Joe Biden stands with Shawn Fain, president of the United Auto Workers, at the United Auto Workers' political convention, Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024, in Washington. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon]

Fain calls for a new arsenal of democracy, a reference to the US war economy during World War II, and has been appointed by Biden to a major trade board to help coordinate economic war with China. Far from ending labor-management collusion and corruption, Fain and several other top UAW officials are being investigated by a federal monitor for financial wrongdoing.

The conflict between workers and the bureaucracy has only grown over the past two years, expressed in the growth of rank-and-file committees across the US and the world. These new organizations, united on a world scale through the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees, are laying the foundations for a rebellion against the entire corporatist labor framework being imposed on the working class.

Amazon workers must learn the lessons from their experience with ALU. The fight for workplace democracy is incompatible with the profit system and the union bureaucracy which upholds it. It requires a struggle against the whole capitalist oligarchy and the development of an international working class movement connecting the defense of jobs, wages and working conditions with the fight against war.
The World Socialist Web Site continues to receive support from workers in Australia and New Zealand for its campaign to free Ukrainian socialist Bogdan Syrotiuk. He was imprisoned in late April by the far-right Zelensky regime on the fraudulent charge of high treason.

Syrotiuk has been slandered as aiding the Putin regime. In reality, he is the leader of the Young Guard of Bolshevik-Leninists (YGBL), a Trotskyist organisation that operates in the former Soviet Union, including Ukraine and Russia. He and the YGBL fight for an end to the US-NATO led war in Ukraine through the unity of the Ukrainian, Russian and international working class on a socialist basis. That perspective is based on implacable opposition to all the capitalist governments, including in Russia.

Last week the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) held pickets and lobbies outside Ukrainian embassies globally to demand the release of Bogdan. The ICFI issued an open letter detailing his persecution. The WSWS calls on you to support the campaign for Bogdans freedom.

****

Dianne

Dianne, a WSWS reader from New Zealand

I condemn the April arrest of Bogdan Syrotiuk on false allegations of high treason and demand his immediate release. Bogdan is for peace and works to unite both the Ukrainian and Russian working class against a new imperialist world war. He should not be incarcerated and must be freed.

Prom, a postal worker in Auckland, New Zealand, said WSWS articles on the US-NATO war against Russia had enabled him to understand a lot more, and if I can see it, I hope that others can too. The website has taught me a lot better than any history class ever taught me in New Zealand. This war map that they are mapping out for us is not something we should be following. Its barbarous what theyre trying to do.

Prom

The WSWS specifically says: we do not agree with Putin or Zelensky on Ukraine. The Russian government might be happy that Bogdans in prison, because he writes against them as well. That exposes the lie that Zelensky and his mob are trying to say, that hes a propaganda puppet for the Russians.

Prom said the imperialist powers clearly saw Bogdan and the YGBL as a threat. Theyre thinking: Wed better get on top of these guys before everyone sees that what theyre saying is true. Thats what I thought when I read what David North said, when Bogdan was initially jailed: it just confirms that everything that I read on the WSWS is spot on, its true.

****

In Australia the WSWS has received the following statements:

Gian, healthcare worker

I write in support of Bogdan Syrotiuk who is currently being held in prison in Nikolaev. Bogdan is a socialist writer who has been peacefully advocating for an end to the war. Bogdan is not part of a propaganda campaign carried out by Russia. In fact, Bogdan has clearly stated in his writings that he is opposed to the Russian and Ukrainian governments and that it is the Russian and Ukrainian working classes who need to co-operate to end this war in which at least half a million people have now died.

Bogdan has been denied his high blood pressure medication in prison and has not been able to obtain legal representation. If Bogdan is found guilty, he may be sentenced to 15 years in prison. Bogdan may die in jail as a result of the brutal and harsh conditions in which he is being imprisoned.

Imprisoning left wing writers like Bogdan without legal representation will not stop Ukrainian parents from wondering why their children are being sent to die in a war which was provoked and is now being propped up by the West. Bogdan should be freed not only because he has done nothing wrong but because his continued detention is illegal, harsh and brutal.

Richard and Lee-Anne

Richard, factory worker and Lee-Anne, social worker

Bogdans jailers make the lying and absurd claim he is a supporter of Putin. Bogdan is a Trotskyist. He is a fighter for the unity of Russian and Ukrainian workers. In todays mad, warmongering imperialist world the struggle for peace is criminalised. Doctors, teachers and students are labelled terrorists. Enough!

We dont want to fight your war. For the unity of all workers! Free Bogdan Syrotiuk!

Bernard, retired teacher, Victoria

Neither the WSWS nor Bogdan Syrotiuk are supporters of Putin or Putins war on Ukraine. On the contrary, both are in ardent and long-term opposition to this war and deplore the high human cost to the Ukrainian populace both military and civilian. In appealing to both the Russian and Ukrainian working classes over the heads of their despotic leaderships, they are seeking to point the way to end this fratricidal bloodbath.

Bernard

The imprisonment of Bogdan and the banning of the WSWS reveals the outrightly anti-democratic nature of the governments which pursue and support this war. The posturing of big brother NATO coming to the aid of little Volodymyr Zelensky brings on the nightmare of an unimaginable universal conflagration. The origins of this nightmare is the waking dream that we indulge: that our leaders care for and safeguard us.

Richard, retired teacher

Free Bogdan Syrotiuk!

Bogdan Syrotiuk is charged with treason for the same reason that Julian Assange is charged with espionage: capitalism is so rotten and weak it can no longer generate any credible intellectual support for its never-ending war, increasing levels of inequality and poverty. The suffering of the people of Ukraine is devastating and the situation of the fascist regime is so weak that its repression needs to be ever more vicious.

Bogdan Syrotiuk is imprisoned for a meticulous telling of the truth. His situation is terrible, and he must be free.

Richard
Amid new whistleblower revelations of Boeings systematic sacrifice of passenger safety to boost profits, the Democratic-controlled Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations held a hearing Tuesday aimed at rehabilitating the mega-corporation and military contractor.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun testifies at a Senate Homeland Security Subcommittee on Investigations hearing on Capitol Hill Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in Washington. [AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib]

It has been more than five years since a total of 346 men, women and children died in two separate crashes, just months apart, of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft caused by a defective automated anti-stall system that the company knew to be potentially deadly. There have been no criminal prosecutions of the company or its executives.

Instead, in keeping with the modus operandi of capitalism and the rule of the corporate-financial oligarchy, Boeing has been allowed to continue violating federal safety regulations and cutting production corners in order to boost its bottom line and shore up its stock price.

In January, an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 flight narrowly escaped disaster when a door plug on the fuselage blew out shortly after takeoff. It turned out that the supplier company had failed to bolt the door plug.

That debacle has since been followed by a string of safety failures and near crashes, ranging from landing gears and wing panels falling off during takeoff or in flight, to an onboard fire that aborted a takeoff, to unexplained rocking motions in flight that panicked passengers and caused injuries.

A series of whistleblowers have come forward to denounce the company for ignoring production standards in order to increase output and for threatening or exacting retaliation for their efforts to uphold legal requirements.

In advance of Tuesdays hearing, the Senate subcommittee issued a statement citing new complaints from a quality assurance investigator at Boeings plant in Renton, Washington. It said:

New whistleblower and current Boeing employee Sam Mohawk alleges that Boeing is improperly documenting, tracking, and storing parts that are damaged or otherwise out of specification, and that those parts are likely being installed on airplanes.  Mohawk has also alleged that he has been told by his supervisors to conceal evidence from the FAA, and that he is being retaliated against as a result.

Since January, two Boeing whistleblowers have died under mysterious circumstances, with very little attention paid by the media. In March, John Barnett, who had been fired from his job as a quality manager at Boeings South Carolina plant for exposing safety violations on the companys 787 Dreamliner project, was found dead in his rented car before the final day of a three-day deposition in his civil suit against the company.

The Charleston County Coroners Office immediately ruled that his death was the result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, without making public any evidence. Shortly thereafter, a family friend quoted Barnett as telling her, If anything happens to me, its not suicide.

Two months later, whistleblower Joshua Dean suddenly died after going public with charges of serious and gross misconduct by senior quality management of the 737 production line.

Tuesdays Senate hearing was stage-managed to give the appearance of what the subcommittee chairman, Richard Blumenthal (Democrat-Connecticut), called a reckoning for Boeing and the featured witness, CEO David Calhoun.

Relatives of passengers killed in the 737 MAX 8 crashes were in the audience, holding posters with photos of their dead loved ones, as were family members of John Barnett. In opening the hearing, Blumenthal addressed both groups.

Significantly, Blumenthal categorically called Barnetts death a suicide.

Calhoun began his remarks by turning to the family members in the chamber and apologizing for their loss. Asked to comment by Blumenthal, he also expressed his horror at the death of Barnett.

Anti-Gaza genocide protesters present in the chamber were simply ignored by committee members on both sides of the aisle.

There were criticisms directed at Calhoun from politicians of both parties, but the entire procedure was a charade. Blumenthal called for a new management team to restore the companys credibility. Were here because we want Boeing to succeed, he said, adding, in reference to Boeings McDonnell Douglas division, for the sake of our military.

Nothing was said, of course, about the irrational and anti-social essence of a key component of public transportation being in the hands of private bosses, themselves beholden to multitrillion-dollar banks and hedge funds.

Dennis Muilenberg, who was CEO when the 737 MAX 8 was launched, made $80 million during his tenure, or more than $231,000 for each person who died in the two MAX crashes. His successor, Calhoun, has made more than $76 million since 2021.

The Seattle Times reported that from 2014 to 2018, Boeing diverted 92 percent of operating cash flow for dividends and share buybacks to benefit investors.

Such levels of financial parasitism go hand in hand with criminality and militarism and are incompatible with democracy. It is the working class that pays for the bankruptcy of a system based on the private monopolization of the means of production, nationalism and war, and the subordination of all social needs to corporate profit-making and the personal enrichment of an oligarchic elite.

Socialist Equality Party presidential candidate Joseph Kishore issued a statement on X Tuesday evening on the hearings. The basic issue, he wrote, which of course none of the assembled senators would speak of, is the subordination of such a basic social need as travel to private profit.

He continued:

Calhoun and other executives are paid tens of millions, hundreds of millions, or, in the case of Elon Musk, $45 billion, to ensure the endless flow of profits to top investors. As with almost all major companies, among Boeings investors are top private equity funds like BlackRock and Vanguard, that control trillions of dollars.

Kishore added:

The entire transportation system, along with other critical social infrastructurehealthcare, education, housing, energy, etc.must be operated on the basis of social need, not private profit. Only in this way can workers be guaranteed the basic rights essential to modern society, including the right to safe travel.

The mass killers who control Boeing must be held accountable and brought to justice. But this is inseparable from a united and international offensive of the working class against the capitalist system itself.

The starting point is the expropriation of the capitalist owners of Boeing and the entire transportation industry and the transformation of aircraft production into a public utility under the democratic control of the working class.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 19. Kazakhstan's KazMunayGas (KMG, the national oil and gas company) and North Caspian Operating Company N.V. (NCOC), the operator of the Kashagan field, have discussed the development of the Kashagan field, Trend reports.

Negotiations on this topic took place between the Chairman of the Board of KMG Askhat Khassenov and the NCOC Managing Director Giancarlo Ruiu.

The parties emphasized compliance with high standards of safety and labor protection. It was noted that record production figures of 18.8 million tons, achieved at Kashagan at the end of 2023, confirm the enormous potential of the field.

The interlocutors agreed that the importance of Kashagan's raw materials will only grow given the development of petrochemical production and low-carbon development in the country.

Khassenov noted that KMG, as a shareholder, will support NCOCs social projects aimed at improving the living conditions of the regions residents and developing infrastructure.

Meanwhile, the volume of oil production at Kazakhstan's Kashagan field for the share of KMG amounted to 780,000 tons (68,000 barrels per day) from January through March 2024. According to KMG's data, compared to the same period in 2023, the volume of oil production decreased by 1.7 percent.

Simultaneously, gas production hit the mark of 501 million cubic meters, which is on par with the figure for the first quarter of 2023.

To note, the Kashagan field is an offshore oil field in Kazakhstan's zone of the Caspian Sea. The development of the field is carried out by the international joint venture North Caspian Operating Company (NCOC) in accordance with the production sharing agreement dated November 18, 1997. Industrial production at the field began on September 11, 2013.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 19. The lower house of the Kazakh parliament has ratified the agreement between the government of Kazakhstan and the UN on organizing the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Digital Inclusion and Transformation in Astana, Trend reports via a source in the lower house.

According to the source, the agreement aims to implement the tasks set by the President of Kazakhstan for the government to attract 500 billion tenge ($1.09 billion) worth of investments to the country by 2025 and to increase IT product exports by $1 billion in 2026.

At the conference, Kazakhstan will present its own digital solutions, such as SmartBridge, SDU (smart data government), eOtinish (e-payment), and others, to a wide range of international specialists from more than 60 member states of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).

Furthermore, the conference will facilitate the establishment of the UN Center for Digital Solutions for Sustainable Development in Central Asia.

The decision to create such a center in Almaty was supported at the 79th session of the UN ESCAP.

The center will promote effective regional digital development, provide local specialists with direct access to UN best practices, coordinate efforts in implementing key initiatives and projects in digitalization, and effectively address crisis situations such as pandemics, natural disasters, and others.

According to UN rankings, Kazakhstan is one of the leaders in the Asia-Pacific region in the field of digital government solutions.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, June 19. Kazakhstan's KazMunayGas (KMG, the national oil and gas company) and Chevron have discussed the development of renewable energy sources at the Tengiz field, Trend reports.

Negotiations on this topic took place between the Chairman of the Board of KMG Askhat Khassenov and Derek Magness, Managing Director of the Eurasian division of Chevron.

Khassenov noted that, in addition to helping Kazakhstan reach its carbon emission reduction targets, developing renewable energy sources at the Tengiz field could free up gas for use in domestic markets and petrochemical projects.

Simultaneously, the parties acknowledged the significance of promptly giving green light to an investment decision regarding the building of a gas processing plant to handle 4.5 billion cubic meters of raw gas annually at the Karachaganak field in order to supply Kazakhstan with marketable gas.

Khassenov also pointed out the need for cooperation with government agencies for the timely approval of project documents for field development.

In conclusion, the parties confirmed their commitment to strengthening a mutually beneficial partnership.

Meanwhile, the Tengiz field is managed by Tengizchevroil, a joint venture between Kazakhstan and Chevron. Tengiz, the worlds deepest-producing super-giant oil field, was discovered in 1979. The Tengizchevroil (TCO) partnership was formed on April 6, 1993, between Kazakhstan and Chevron.

Estimated oil in place in the Tengiz field is 3.1 billion metric tons (25 billion barrels) and 200 million metric tons (1.6 billion barrels) in the Korolev field, where Tengizchevroil also produces. Total recoverable crude oil in the Tengiz and Korolev fields is estimated to be 1.4 billion metric tons (11.5 billion barrels).
A scene from Green Border - Credit: Agata Kubis/Kino Lorber

As the international refugee crisis was wobbling past its tipping point in late 2021, a small patch of no-mans-land between two Eastern European nations was turning into a hot spot. Migrants who were fleeing turmoil in the Middle East and parts of Africa had been told that they could find a way into Europe via Belarus. The rumors were that the countrys president, Aleksandr G. Lukashenko, was touting easily accessible tourist visas as a safer alternative than trying to make the arduous, dangerous journey by boat. Once there, they could cross the forested area shared by both nations and enter into Poland. It was apparently a ploy by Lukashenko, whose country was not a member of the European Union, to throw his neighboring country, which was, into chaos. Polands response was to form what it dubbed an exclusion zone, protected by barbed wire and policed by border guards.

Day after day, refugees were rounded up by Polish security forces, were often beaten and abused, and were forced to go back over the wire and into the Belarusian woods. Belarus soldiers would then round up these same people, often beating and abusing them, and make them go over the wire back into Poland. Mortality rates were high. Trying to claim asylum only made things worse.

More from Rolling Stone

A cry of rage and plea for compassion that blazed through the festival circuit last year  and the cause of much controversy in its country of origin  Green Border is Polish filmmaker Agnieszka Hollands attempt to examines this crisis from a variety of viewpoints. Not surprisingly, the movie itself has generated a panoply of responses comparable to a shaft of light filtered through a prism; its been called a masterpiece, a massive misstep, a necessary counterpoint to Polands attempt to demonize and dehumanize those seeking shelter on their grounds, an anti-Polish screed and the equivalent of Nazi propaganda. Holland has been denounced by the countrys ruling party and received a litany of death threats. What this drama is, at its essence, is the sort of work of art that refuses to whitewash a collective atrocity nor ignore the fact that both its perpetrators and its victims are human beings. You can see why this might anger those whod prefer, for political reasons, that their constituents view refugees as something less than people. You also understand why Hollands movie is the perfect antidote to that poisonous train of thought. (It opens in NY on June 21st, LA on June 28th, and hopefully as many other cities as possible right after that.)

It starts with a family of migrants, comprised of Bashir (Jalal Altawil), his wife Amina (Dalia Naous), their three children and Bashirs elderly father (Mohamad Al Rashi). His brother lives in Sweden, and has paid for his relatives trip in order to join him. They just have to get to Poland first, where a taxi has been arranged to meet them. An Afghan teacher, Leila (Behi Djanati Atai), asks if she can tag along; her brother has connections that shes hoping will lead to asylum. Their transport is stopped by troops at the border, and the group is forced to flee. What happens next plays out like the grimmest of fairy tales, as travelers in a forest find themselves surrounded by wolves, some more rabid than others, snarling at them on all sides.

Behi Djanati Atai, center, in Green Border.

During one of the more unsettling encounters that the family have with both the Belarusian and the Polish soldiers  which is truly saying something; Green Border does not shy away from depicting the violence used against migrants, notably children and pregnant women, in a harsh, unvarnished manner  Hollands camera lingers on one young mans face for a few extra beats. He is Jan (Tomasz Wlosok), a border guard who doesnt seem as callous or knee-jerk racist as his colleagues. Holland lets us see this nightmarish situation not just through his eyes but through the lens of the institution that employs him, from a commanders insistence that the refugees are agents of Putin smuggling pedophile and zoophile material into the country to the military mandates that meets requests with asylum with immediate detainment and deportment. Jans struggling with the assignment, to say the least. Again, were reminded that every participant in this stand-off between governments is a pawn, and everyone loses a little bit of their soul no matter what side theyre on.

Indeed, for propaganda that Polands officials have gone after for being anti-Polish, the movie sure goes out of its way to portray its countrys citizens as sympathetic to those trying to find a new home in Europe as much as it details an overall apathy to the crisis. Yes, there are those who blindly consume, digest and parrot back toxic talking points, and one supporting character whos probably a stand-in for many Poles (and definitely a lot of non-Poles) when she says she cant get involved because I have to live my life. Yet the back half of Green Border introduces us to a number of local activists providing food, medicine, and aid to those caught in the crossfire, including Marta (Monika Frajczyk), one such groups leader who doubles as as an exposition handler for how human-rights advocates are often undercut and left observing helplessly on the sidelines. It also gives us a radicalized every-woman in the form of Julia (veteran Polish actor Maja Ostaszewska), who goes from bystander who talks the talk to potential enemy of the state who walks the walk. I thought you were just a common, petty liberal who was looking to boost your self-esteem, one activist says. I have good self-esteem, Julia replies. Otherwise, I agree with you.

The cinematography, by Hollands longtime collaborator Tomasz Naumiuk, is stark black-and-white; Green Borders politics, however, are anything but. Holland does not try to simplify an ongoing series of exoduses causing reverberations all around the world, as more are forced to flee war zones and less are able to find sustainable ways to take these displaced masses in. All she knows is that when you try to remove the human element from the equation, all is already lost.

Theres a small side story thats slotted into the movies narrative-go-round near the end, in which three African teens end up finding a temporary home and bond with their Polish peer over a mutual love of hip-hop. In any other film, such a sequence might read as Pollyanna-ish. Heres, its a much-needed glimmer at the end of a seemingly endless tunnel. The film then drops a coda that pivots focus to those leaving the Ukraine in droves, which suggests that the problem isnt one country, one set of refugees or one border. Green Border refuses to let the world outside of Poland and Belarus off the hook. But it also reminds you that, while the movies are a lot of things to a lot of people, they have the ability to do what Roger Ebert astutely pointed out as one of the forms best qualities years ago: act as machines of empathy. All Holland asks here is that viewers contemplate this headline-generating tragedy happening over there from the point of view of those within it. After youve sat through this devastating film, its impossible not to.

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(The Hill)  Embattled former Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) announced Wednesday that he was joining a new creative platform: OnlyFans.

The moment youve all been waiting for! Only on #OnlyFans will you get the full behind the scenes access to everything Im working on, Santos posted on social media platform X. See ya all there!

The New York Republican made history late last year as only the sixth lawmaker to be expelled from the House. His departure from Congress followed a scathing report from the House Ethics Committee that found he violated federal criminal laws, including using campaign funds to make small purchases from OnlyFans, the subscription platform mostly used for adult content.

Then-Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., faces reporters at the Capitol in Washington, early Thursday, Nov. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

After being ousted from Congress, the former lawmaker took to Cameo, racking up donations from people who wanted him to film personalized videos.

Santos assured his followers online that not all content on only fans is porn and he is not doing anything sexual what so ever, adding a puke emoji.

On his page, Santos said his platform will allow people to dive deep into the exclusive never before seen content of the Congressional Icon and much more!

His subscription costs $29.99 per month and has a 10 percent off deal if users subscribe for three months.

Recognize these items? They could help ID body found in barrel at Lake Mead

The former lawmaker is facing a federal indictment on 23 counts of wire fraud, identity theft and other campaign charges  and he has pleaded not guilty in the case. But his rise and fall pushed the House Republican caucus into more chaos after it was left without leadership for weeks last year after former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) was booted from the post.

Santos made a surprise appearance at President Bidens State of the Union address in early March, where he announced he would be running for New Yorks 1st Congressional District against GOP Rep. Nick LaLota. Later that month, he said hed be running as an independent.

By mid-April, Santos had suspended his bid.

As he awaits trial, a U.S. District Court judge granted his request to make trips to Mount Pocono in Pennsylvania. Hes also been given permission to travel within New York City, Long Island and Washington, D.C., along with other places if he gives the government advanced notice.

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.
There may be an increase in COVID cases this summer. Experts say this is why many shouldn't be concerned

As the United States heads into the summer season, early indicators show the country is likely to experience an increase in COVID-19 infections.

For the week ending June 8, the latest date for which data is available, COVID test positivity was 5.4% across the U.S., an increase of 0.8% from the previous week, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In the Western region -- which is comprised of Arizona, California, Hawaii and Nevada -- COVID test positivity was 12.8%, higher than any other region of the U.S. The New England region -- made up of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont -- had the next highest test positivity rate at 5.4%, matching the national rate.

MORE: Moderna's combo COVID and flu shot offers strong immunity in older adults during late stage trial

Wastewater data from the CDC shows that although viral activity levels are still low nationally, levels have more than doubled in the western U.S. over the last month.

Additionally, COVID emergency department visits for the week ending June 8 rose 12.6% from the week prior, according to CDC data.

PHOTO: Illustration (ABC News, CDC)

Traditionally, the U.S. has seen increases in COVID every summer, typically after the Fourth of July, but public health experts said Americans will likely see a "drift upwards" rather than a surge. They added that the average person will be able to safely navigate a rise in cases but that high-risk individuals who could develop serious illness need to be remain on alert and be careful.

"To put it proportionally to like where we were in many winters, we are at a very, very low rate of COVID, compared to some of our peaks," Dr. Cameron Wolfe, a professor of medicine in the infectious diseases division at Duke University, told ABC News. "Like compared to early 2022, for example, when omicron first emerged, this is night and day different. But  there's just this little drift upwards, perhaps in the last few weeks."

Increases have been seen in several states, most notably on the West Coast. In Los Angeles, the county's Department of Public Health reported an average of 121 cases on June 13, up from a daily average of 106 instances one week prior.

However, experts said a combination of us learning how to better manage the virus and having high levels of immunity means COVID will not be a major threat to the average person.

"Our bodies have learned how to manage the virus over the last four years, meaning that many people have had successive waves of infection, many people have had initial vaccinations," Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a professor of medicine and infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco, told ABC News. "So that combined immunity gives a big force field that can help protect us during the summer.  Although most people will be fine, there are still some people that are going to get very sick."

MORE: 4 years later, experts are just beginning to 'scratch the surface' of understanding long COVID

As of Tuesday, hospitalizations and deaths in the U.S. remain stable. For the week ending May 18, the last week of complete data, there were 311 deaths due to COVID, which is the lowest death figure recorded in the U.S. since the beginning of the pandemic.

Chin-Hong said most hospitalizations and deaths are occurring among high-risk groups, including elderly individuals aged 75 and older and people who are immunocompromised, such as those who have undergone organ transplants or are on medications that suppress the immune system.

He recommends the average person track COVID wastewater data from the CDC to see if it's trending upwards in their area and to keep masks and COVID rapid tests handy in case they need them, but he added that an increase in COVID should not be cause for fear.

"I think there's a fine balance between ignoring everything and being scared by everything," Chin-Hong said. "It's like when you're crossing the street. You never just run across a busy road; you always look both ways, but it doesn't mean you don't go to the next destination. So, I think in the new phase of COVID, that's the way we should think about it."

PHOTO: A covid test is seen in Williamsburg, Va., March 18, 2024. (Newsbase/AP, FILE)

Similarly, Wolfe said people should assess their individual risk and take more precautions if they will be around high-risk individuals such as senior citizens or sick patients. He also recommended getting the newest updated COVID vaccine that will likely be rolled out in late September.

"Very much in the same way that flu vaccines are tailored each year to adapt to the strains that we see, the same is occurring with COVID," Wolfe said. "And I think for someone who might be themselves or someone in their family or close contact known to be high risk I'm going to be still actively encouraging those people to get vaccinated."

There may be an increase in COVID cases this summer. Experts say this is why many shouldn't be concerned originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Kids head around the track during the first annual Adel Parks and Rec Power Wheels Nationals on Saturday, Oct. 1, 2022, at Kinnick-Feller Park in Adel.

Free Merchant Movies

11 a.m. Wednesday, June 19 at Perry Grand 3 Theatres.

The Perry Grand 3 Theatres will continue the 2024 summer movies on Wednesday, June 19 with "The Land Before Time." All movies will be shown at 11 a.m. on Wednesdays through Aug. 7. Admission is free thanks to local sponsors. Look for a full list of upcoming movies on the Perry Grand 3 Theatres Facebook page.

Public Safety Night

4-7 p.m. Thursday, June 20 on 2nd Street between Warford and Willis, Perry.

Check out the Perry Farmers Market from 4-7 p.m. every Thursday, but especially on the Third Thursday of the month for special events. Thursday, June 20 is Public Safety Night at the 2024 Perry Farmers Market. Special guests will include the Perry Police Department, Perry Fire Department, Dallas County Emergency Management, Dallas County Health Department and Zion Integrated Behavioral Health Services. The Perry Firefighters Association will serve a meal, which includes a choice of hot dog ($5), cheeseburger ($8), pork loin sandwich ($8) or steak sandwich ($10), chips and a drink.

Kids Sensory Hike

7:30-8 p.m. Thursday, June 20 at Overlook Pond, The Brenton Arboretum.

Bring the kids to smell, hear and feel the prairie at Overlook Pond.

Summer Solstice Sunset Celebration

8-9 p.m. Thursday, June 20 at Hanging Rock Park.

Join DCCB naturalists at the astronomical clock atop the ridge at Hanging Rock to observe and celebrate the sunset of Summer Solstice. The meaning of the word "solstice" is sol- sun and stice- to stand still. Perhaps the frenetic pace of your life could use a little stand-still time. Explore metering time in a different scale, a clock made of rocks, and enjoy the magic of a sunset. Registration not required.

Evening Hike

8:30-9:15 p.m. Thursday, June 20 at The Brenton Arboretum.

Enjoy an evening woodland experience at The Brenton Arboretum. Meet at Eddy Woods (bathrooms at Vista Room). Dress appropriately and bring bug spray.

Pancake Breakfast

7-10 a.m. Saturday, June 22 at Washington Township School, eight miles south of Perry on P58 at the intersection with F31.

A pancake breakfast will be held on Saturday, June 22 at the Washington Township School. Pancakes, eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, hash browns and drink will be served. Proceeds will go to maintain and improve the historic Washington School Building that is used for community events.

Yoga in the Park

8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday, June 22 at Trindle Park, Van Meter.

Van Meter Parks & Recreation is sponsoring yoga this summer. Please note the new location, if we have rain, we can still practice under a shelter. Bring a beach towel or yoga mat and join us as we move our bodies in the outdoors. This practice requires the ability to get up and down off the ground. Yoga in the Park will be held on June 22 and 29, July 13 and 20 and Aug. 3.

Adel Parks and Rec Power Wheels Nationals

11 a.m. Saturday, June 22 at Kinnick-Feller Park, Adel.

The third annual Adel Parks and Rec Power Wheels Nationals, presented by Alley Auto Sales and BigDeal Car Care, will be held on Saturday, June 22. Race day registration will be from 9-10 a.m. with races beginning at 11 a.m. Races will be held for ages 2-7. The divisions include Limited Pro Stock - ages 2 to 4, Pro Stock - ages 5 to 7 and Outlaw - ages 5 to 7. Bring your own power wheels vehicle or use a community sponsored power wheels vehicle. At the conclusion of the event, 25 power wheels will be given away via raffle. Helmets and seatbelts are required and local mechanics will be inspecting vehicles the day of the event. Trophies will be handed out to the top three podium finishers in each class. Every child that participates will receive a certificate for a free kids ice cream cone, brought to you by Billys Ice Cream Store and Kuder Incorporated. Culligan - Adel will provide 250 bottles of ice cold water for all kids participating on June 22. Pre-registration is open through June 19. Find more information on the Power Wheels Nationals Facebook page.

Goat Yoga

3-430 p.m. Saturday, June 22 at Board & Batten, Dallas Center.

An indoor yoga session will be held on Saturday, June 22 at Board & Batten with goats from mini Dreams Ranch. Reservations are required.

St. Pat's Summer Fest

12 p.m. Sunday, June 23 at south green lot across from St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Perry.

Knights of Columbus, Regina Guild and the Hispanic community will host Summer Fest on Sunday, June 23. The event will include live music, a potluck, hog roast, kids games, face painting, bounce houses and more. Bring your favorite dish for the potluck, your lawn chair and drinks (no alcohol).

Greater Des Moines Community Band Outdoor Concert

7 p.m. Monday, June 24 at Spurgeon Manor, 1204 Linden St., Dallas Center.

Come and enjoy another outdoor concert by the Greater Des Moines Community Band on Monday, June 24. Bring a chair and join us at Spurgeon Manor for this event.

Free Merchant Movies

11 a.m. Wednesday, June 26 at Perry Grand 3 Theatres.

The Perry Grand 3 Theatres will continue the 2024 summer movies on Wednesday, June 26 with "Trolls Band Together." All movies will be shown at 11 a.m. on Wednesdays through Aug. 7. Admission is free thanks to local sponsors. Look for a full list of upcoming movies on the Perry Grand 3 Theatres Facebook page.

Summer Prairie Hike

10-11 a.m. Thursday, June 27 at Forest Park Museum and Arboretum, Perry.

Break up your week with a colorful morning hike! Join Dallas County Conservation Board for a morning prairie hike to appreciate the blooming flora in Kuehn's prairies.

Outdoor Summer Movie

8:30 p.m. Friday, June 28 at 2200 Walnut St., Granger.

The Granger Parks & Recreation Department will continue its outdoor summer movie series with "Back to the Future" on Friday, June 28. The movie will be shown on the north side of the Community Center on the grass. Popcorn and candy will available for purchase. Upcoming movies include "Elemental" on July 19 and "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" on Aug. 23.

Movie in the Park

8:45 p.m. Friday, June 28 at Kinnick-Feller Park.

Join Adel Parks and Rec for a free showing of "Trolls Band Together" on Friday, June 28. The movie will be seen on the big screen set up by the gazebo in Kinnick-Feller Park. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. Popcorn is provided. The movie begins at sunset.

Yoga in the Park

8-9 a.m. Saturday, June 29 at Centennial Park, Granger.

Join Jessica for Yoga in the Park on the following dates: June 29; July 6,13, 20 & 27; Aug. 3, 10 & 17. Bring a towel or yoga mat. Yoga in the Park is a free program that is open to all ages.

Waukees Independence Day Celebration

July 3-4 in Waukee.

Waukee's Independence Day Celebration returns on July 3 and 4 at Centennial Park. Enjoy classic American summer activities from a pancake breakfast to a pie-eating contest to professional fireworks and a parade. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. Find all the details and register for the parade, volunteer opportunities and all-you-can-jump inflatables at Waukee.org/July.

Meet Me in Minburn

5:30-9 p.m. Wednesday, July 3 at Meek Park, Minburn.

The Meet Me in Minburn series will continue with a free concert on Wednesday, July 3. A free-will donation meal will be served from 5:30-7 p.m. by the Friends of the Minburn Library. Nachos grande will be served with contributions from Casa Oaxaca. Kick will perform live music from 7-9 p.m. The outdoor skating rink will also be open, with free skate rentals.

Perry's Fourth of July Celebration

10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thursday, July 4 in Perry.

Join the Perry Chamber for a fun day filled with a parade, food, live music and more on the Fourth of July in Perry. Festivities will include a 10 a.m. parade on Willis Avenue to Pattee Park (line-up at 9 a.m. at East Perry Plaza), 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. vendors at Pattee Park, Perry Elks Lodge Bingo, 2 p.m. Perry Fine Arts Musical Extravaganza & Ice Cream Social at First United Methodist Church, 6-9:30 p.m. Live Music at Pattee Park Bandshell by Stranger than Fiction and 9:30 p.m. fireworks finale.

To submit events to be included in the Around the County round-up, email news@adelnews.com or news@theperrychief.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Things to do in Dallas County this weekend, June 19-24: Power Wheels Nationals, more
1st official day of summer is Thursday: What to know about summer solstice

Not only is Thursday, the longest day of the year as it marks the first day of the summer solstice, but it will certainly be a hot one.

Temperatures are predicted to be in the 90s but with the heat index, it will feel like well more than 100. Talk about a warm kick off to summer.

Good thing Kroger has us covered with free ice cream, but more on that later.

When does summer 2024 begin?

Royce Mauldin, of Detroit, makes an attempt to end up at the center of Dodge Fountain in Hart Plaza after several attempts while finding relief from the heat in downtown Detroit on Monday, June 17, 2024.

The first official day of summer is Thursday, June 20, 2024. It is also known as the summer solstice and it officially arrives at exactly 4:51 p.m. That said, many people tend to recognize Memorial Day of the "unofficial" first day of summer, especially given its proximity to the final day of the school year for many schools.

When is the summer solstice?

The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year. During the summer solstice, the Sun is at its highest point in the sky and the Earth's tilt toward the star is at its maximum, according to the National Weather Service.

In the U.S., at latitudes of approximately 40 degrees North, daylight during the summer solstice will last for about 15 hours, Space.com reports.

As the days go by, the amount of sunlight will decrease. This culminates with the winter solstice, or the shortest day of the year (Dec. 21). On the winter solstice, the Earth's tilt is its farthest from the Sun.

Best place to watch summer solstice sunrise

Mixbook conducted a survey to find the best spots in the country to witness the sunrise on the summer solstice. And based on personal experiences, 3,000 respondents said three locations in Michigan made the top 150 list. The top location, Mackinac Island, was No. 62 overall.

"This car-free island in Lake Huron offers beautiful sunrise views from its eastern shore,: Mixbook says. "The Arch Rock and Fort Holmes provide excellent vantage points to catch the morning light."

Arch Rock on Mackinac Island, Wednesday, July 21, 2021.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore came in at No. 75 and No. 89, respectively.

Free ice cream at Kroger

To celebrate summer, Kroger is giving away 45,000 pints of Kroger brand ice cream on Thursday, June 20.

Kroger wants to offer a free cool, sweet treat to help celebrate summer by giving away 45,000 pints of free ice cream Thursday, according to a news release from the company.

The offer is valid for any pint of Kroger brand ice cream including Kroger Brand Deluxe Tie Dye Burst, which features swirls of vanilla, cherry and blue moon, and classic flavors like Mint Chocolate Chip, Vivid Vanilla and Chocolate Chip.

Go to FreeKrogerIceCream.com to get a limited-time, single-use digital coupon, available for use Thursday only, while supplies last.

When does summer end?

Summer officially ends on Sunday, Sep. 22, 2024, when the fall officially begins. Some consider Labor Day the unofficial end of summer, which this year falls on Monday, Sep. 2, 2024.

USA TODAY contributed to this story.

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Contact Amy Huschka: ahuschka@freepress.com or follow her on Twitter (@aetmanshuschka).

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Summer solstice 2024: When first day of season begins
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  There is nothing better than the smell of coffee in the morning. Mix that with great food and some Jamaican flare and youll have yourself a perfect afternoon at this new spot.

The Island Vibez Cafe & Coffeehouse, which serves up delicious coffee and mouthwatering Caribbean cuisine, is a family affair owned and operated by the Coombs and Anderson families.

Executive chef Michael Coombs is originally from Jamaica and wanted to bring his culture to the Grand Strand  hence the name of the restaurant.

We have to keep it around the island thing and his food, co-owner Lisa Coombs said. So, thats where we came up with it from the island of Jamaica and the great vibes that it brings with the music and the foods and, you know, everything comes together.

The idea of opening Island Vibez was sparked by a love for coffee and convenience.

I have a salon down the street, and I would have to travel to get coffee, Lisa Coombs said. And I keep saying, we got to have coffee here. Then, my husbands a chef, so his food and the coffee had him wanting his own, so it just all came together.

The location on Broadway Street in downtown Myrtle Beach is perfect, Lisa Coombs said, adding that she is proud to have a new business in the growing downtown area.

It couldnt have happened at a better time, she said. To see all of the new businesses coming into the area and seeing downtown come alive, thats really exciting.

With an array of coffee like lattes, iced coffee and espresso, the options are endless. They use a local roaster with coffee beans from Guatemala, and the coffee not only smells delicious but tastes like a perfect Sunday morning.

Staying on theme, they also offer a variety of different island drinks.

We have ginger beer pop and pineapple ginger pop, Lisa Coombs said. We have juices like the pineapple and ginger juice, and the reggae melody.

When it comes to the food, they offer pastries as well as Jamaican beef and chicken patties, jerk chicken, sandwiches, and their top seller, the rasta pasta.

When you think of Rasta, you think of the colors red, yellow and green., so those are the colors that are in the pasta from the veggies, Lisa Coombs said. And his special sauce that he makes to put it together, it is mouthwatering, and its one of our customers favorites.

From the fresh vegetables to the creamy sauce, it was both savory and delicious.

Their avocado grill and jerky chicken sandwiches are flavorful, and the pesto basil and island spread made the sandwiches stand out from the rest.

Coombs said they are proud of their business and even more proud to work with family.

Its good to have family just coming together and growing in business, Lisa Coombs said.

When you come to Island Vibez Cafe & Coffeehouse, get ready to enjoy island music, while sipping on your coffee and chowing down on delicious Caribbean cuisine. On Wednesdays through Friday, they also offer Chef Specials including ox tail.

* * *

Gracie is a multimedia journalist at News 13 and is from Cleveland, Ohio. Gracie joined the team in June 2023 after graduating from the University of Alabama in May. Follow Gracie on Facebook, Instagram and X, formerly Twitter, & read 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 WBTW.
Celebrating Juneteenth: Here is a list of events happening around our area

Although city offices are closed, there is still plenty to do around our area to celebrate Juneteenth.

Juneteenth marks 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas found out they had been freed. It happened after the Civil War and 2 years after President Abraham Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation. It was designated a federal holiday in 2021.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Below is a list of activities planned around our area:

DUVAL COUNTY

Florida Black Excellence Fest:

From June 19 - 23, community members can celebrate a 3-day weekend with events like 40 under 40, Taste of Excellence and a vendor fair. The events run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. For more information, visit www.fbxfest.com .



City of Jacksonville:

The City of Jacksonville is recognizing Juneteenth in a ceremony at City Hall. The event starts at 11:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.coj.net .



Juneteenth Celebration at the Beaches:

A celebration for the whole family will be held at Rhoda L. Martin Cultural Heritage Center in Jacksonville Beach. The event will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit https://rhodamartin.com .



El-Beth-El Stop the Violence Recognition Banquet:

The El-Beth-El Development Center will host its 15th annual Stop the Violence Recognition Banquet at the Scottish Rites Cathedral starting at 6:30 p.m. The event has honored people from the community for achievements, leadership and their commitment to building a better Jacksonville and has been hosted annually since 2009. For ticket information, call El-Beth-El Holiness Church at 904-710-1586.



Juneteenth Book Store Opening:

The Cafe Resistance Bookstores is hosting a Black-owned business event from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Stop by to learn about Black history, listen to live music and enjoy each others company. For more information, call 904-610-7103.



Juneteenth Happy Hour:

Laurens Seafood Blues & Jazz is hosting a freedom celebration on the patio from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Participants are asked to bring their lawn chairs to enjoy cocktails, food, music and spoken word. For more information, call 904-379-9232.



Juneteenth at the MOSH:

From 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., celebrate the Juneteenth: Freedom Day Celebration at the MOSH. Jacksonville Arts and Music School has collaborated with the MOSH to bring West African dance, and historic talks. For more information, visit www.themosh.org .



Juneteenth Ritz Players:

The Ritz Players are playing at the JuTerry Concert Hall for their season finale concert, Juneteenth: Celebrate Freedom - Journey Towards Freedom to commemorate the holiday and African Americans emancipation from slavery. The concert will run from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.ritztheatre.org/the-ritz-players .



WineDown on Juneteenth:

WineDown: Juneteenth Edition is happening at the Glass Factory. The event will celebrate Black pride with music and a Black history showcase from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit www.theglassfactory.com .



ST. JOHNS COUNTY

Canright House Juneteenth Celebration:

To honor Juneteenth, the historic Canright House is set to open its doors for locals to tour today. The Canright House was where Dr. Luther King Jr. was supposed to stay when he visited St. Augustine in the 60s before segregationists vandalized it. The house was moved from its original location in Butler Beach on May 5. The ribbon-cutting ceremony is at 10 a.m.



Juneteenth at the Ovico Gallery:

The Ovico Gallery in St. Augustine is celebrating Juneteenth with a special event. There will be African art, live music, and refreshments. It runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.



PUTNAM COUNTY

Palatka Historical Marker:

City leaders in Palatka will unveil a historical marker in honor of Juneteenth. It will be at the Mary Lawson Hospital site on St. Johns Avenue at South 9th Street. The hospital opened in 1918 as a Blacks only hospital. When the Whites only hospital got overcrowded, the Mary Lawson Hospital became one of the first integrated hospitals while most of Florida was still segregated. The hospital closed in 1958 and was demolished in 1960. The ceremony is set for June 22 at 1 p.m.



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Children with high BMIs should not use obesity medications like WeGovy, US doctors warn

Children with high BMIs should not use obesity medications like WeGovy, US doctors warn

A task force of more than a dozen doctors warned against prescribing children weight-loss drugs like Ozempic.

In 2023, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggested drug treatments for children with obesity in addition to lifestyle interventions.

Health professionals continue to debate the safety and effectiveness of these drugs for adolescents.

With weight-loss drugs like WeGovy and Ozempic dominating many of today's consumer healthcare conversations, there's a mounting concern for a particularly vulnerable group: children.

Pharmaceutical giants Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk have been running clinical trials on children with obesity who are as young as 6 to understand how this class of drugs, called GLP-1s, could affect their health, Business Insider's Hilary Brueck previously reported.

In January 2023, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended that healthcare providers offer weight-loss medications, in addition to lifestyle adjustments, to treat obesity in children 12 and older. However, not all health professionals agree with the AAP's recommendation.

The US Preventive Services Task Force  a panel of more than a dozen doctors and public health experts from various academic institutions  issued a statement pushing for drug-free weight-loss interventions for children who are 6 and older on Tuesday.

"We believe we need more evidence to be able to make a recommendation for or against medications in children and adolescents," Wanda Nicholson, the task force's chair and senior associate dean of diversity and inclusion at the George Washington University School of Public Health, told STAT.

"While there were trials evaluating the effectiveness of FDA-approved medications, there was a limited number of trials per medication from our review. And in addition, there was limited evidence on weight loss maintenance after medications were discontinued in children," Nicholson said.

Lifestyle interventions are still preferred by doctors over drugs

GLP-1 drugs like WeGovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide, a substance that increases a person's insulin, the natural hormone that regulates blood sugar and tells the body when it's full.

These injectable drugs have proven successful as weight-loss interventions for adults with obesity, early research shows.

However, this class of drugs has its limitations. Many GLP-1 users have reported weight gain after ceasing GLP-1 use, while others have mentioned side effects like diarrhea, "paralyzed" stomachs, hair loss, and nausea.

The US Preventive Services Task Force voiced concern for these potential side effects in children, as well as an excessive focus on weight instead of health.

Nicholson said clinicians have used lifestyle interventions, like nutrition and exercise plans, to help children with obesity lose weight and reduce risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and liver disease.

However, the AAP's and the US Preventive Services Task Force's recommendations overlap, according to Amanda Staiano, an associate professor of pediatric obesity and health behavior at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center of Louisiana State University.

"The AAP explicitly states that drugs should not be a monotherapy. They are an adjunct to be used in combination with intensive health behavior and lifestyle treatment," Staino, who was on the AAP's clinical practice guideline authorship committee, told STAT.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Fatime Letifova

We do not consider France's policy in the South Caucasus effective.

Azernews reports that Hikmat Hajiyev, assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration, said this in a statement to journalists.

According to him, this policy of France is harmful and contradicts the peace agenda in the region.

"It does not contribute to the advancement of the peace agenda in the South Caucasus. The normalization process between Armenia and Azerbaijan, especially the results obtained on April 19 regarding the delimitation of the borders, on December 7, the supreme leaders of the two countries The implementation of a policy of militarization in the region in a situation where serious steps are taken towards the peaceful transformation of the South Caucasus as a whole is a serious blow to the normalization process It is a name that will serve as a kind of encouragement. That is why France's policy of militarization, especially the provision of offensive weapons to Armenia, and the expansion of military cooperation between Armenia and France, is a matter of serious concern. We believe that France, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, is a more responsible policy should be implemented".

H. Hajiyev said that Armenia is a state that has invaded and invaded the South Caucasus region.

"This is an experience based on the real policy of Armenia. The people and state of Azerbaijan have also suffered from this. Therefore, the rearming of the occupying-aggressive state and the implementation of the policy of militarization will never happen. in any case, it cannot be considered a responsible policy".
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, June 19. President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Zhaparov signed a decree 'On the establishment of the National Investment Fund of the Kyrgyz Republic', Trend reports.

According to the press service of the Kyrgyz president, having such an organization is as essential as a breath of fresh air for the smooth sailing of business entities with state funds and luring investments by stepping into local and international markets.

In this regard, Zhaparov instructed the Cabinet of Ministers to develop appropriate regulatory legal acts, as well as "on the basis of appropriate assessment and analysis," to prepare a list of business entities with state participation to be transferred to the new fund.

Furthermore, the President of Kyrgyzstan gave the government the green light to make sure the fund and portfolio companies experience a 'steady increase in value'. Additionally, they were instructed to bring in investments by 'putting the fund and portfolio companies on the map' in both international and local capital markets.

Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan is actively striving for socio-economic development, implementing reforms in key sectors of the economy, such as energy, transport, and the agro-industrial complex, in order to increase the competitiveness and sustainability of the economy.

The country also goes the extra mile to pay significant attention to the social sphere, pulling out all the stops to implement programs that improve access to quality education, health care, and social protection. This really helps to raise the standard of living of the population and bring down poverty.
Cicadas are here, so what's next? We eat 'em of course

I had to get this one in before all those periodical cicadas were gone and forgotten, and I would like to start with a shout-out to Peoria Journal Star reader Holly Musselman.

When my article about cicada-based cuisine and wine pairings hit social media last month, Musselmans Facebook comment was You first, PJStar.

Cicadas 2024: When will the cicadas go away in Illinois?

I decided to take up her gauntlet on the newspapers behalf. Why not? It was not my first foray into the world of entomophagy. Apparently, thats a fancy $10 word for eating bugs.

Eating bugs while stationed in the Pacific

Journal Star reporter Mike Kramer ponders his next bite of cicada kebab.

I spent 20 years in the Navy and was in the Pacific fleet for most of that time. When whatever ship I was on went on its six-month deployment, we passed through the Philippines, Thailand, Hing Kong and Singapore. My travels gave me a chance to try some really unusual Asian street food.

I was ultimately too squeamish to try balut  a partially hatched duck egg. A few of my buddies tried it in the Philippines, and none of them got sick as far as I know. But I wimped out at the last minute. There was a vendor circulating through the bar where I was toasting my liberty, and I was on the verge of getting out my wallet and calling him over when I saw one of the locals eating one. He had the duck's feet hanging briefly from his mouth before he audibly slurped them in like pasta.

Somehow, I didn't run screaming into the night  but neither did I follow through on buying one.

I did, however, crunch down my share of salted locusts in Thailand, where they were a fairly common bar snack. They really werent much different than salted peanuts and went well with the local beer.

What do cicadas taste like? We found out

A kebab full of cicadas cooks on a grill at Journal Star reporter Mike Kramer's home.

When the now-famous dual emergence made billions of free land shrimp available in the Midwest, I thought about just going out and collecting a few in the wild. That was before Food Network nutrition consultant Toby Amidor advised against the Bear Grylls approach because of the pathogens cicadas can pick up. Instead, she recommended buying them from a reputable vendor, and I decided to listen to the expert. So, I ordered a container of cicadas from Edibleinsects.com.

Too much information? Some of these facts about cicadas might disgust you

Once my snack arrived in the mail, my instinct was to treat them like the shrimp to which cicadas are often compared. I shucked off their legs, brushed them with lemon, olive oil, and black pepper; then made them into a kabob with red onion and bell pepper. At the last minute, I invited a little prosciutto to the party and grilled the kabob over charcoal for about six minutes. On the side, I made a summer fruit kabob with cherries and peaches.

They dont taste like chicken. Nor do they taste like shrimp, although theres a piece of meat inside that crunchy exoskeleton with much the same texture. And they taste nothing like the canned asparagus some fellow entomophagists have compared them to.

Journal Star reporter Mike Kramer grills a kebab that includes a few cicadas.

What I got was a nuttiness Id been expecting, but also a kind of earthy depth of flavor I couldnt really identify. Theyre more filling than I expected. That kabob with my summer fruit kabob, a few potato chips and a glass of iced tea made quite a satisfying lunch.

As God and Journal Star photographer Matt Dayhoff are my witnesses, I ate everything on my plate.

Next time, I might order some edible black scorpions from Thailand Unique. I would probably prefer them to stewed tomatoes. Stewed tomatoes send me screaming into the night every time.

Cicadas broods map: Why are there so many cicadas in Illinois?

Journal Star reporter Mike Kramer sports a button on his St. Louis Cardinals jersey claiming his status as a "entomophagist," or insect eater.

This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Cicadas 2024: Journal Star reporter Mike Kramer eats cicadas
Ever wonder the history of road names? In Collier County, they're named after pioneers

Road names can be peculiar and puzzling, especially if the meaning behind it is unknown. Some seem random and outlandish, others may make perfect sense.

In Collier County, many streets are named after politicians or settlers and founders of Southwest Florida.

Here's a look at how some of Collier's roads were named.

Airport-Pulling Road

The Pulling family in Naples in the early 1900s.

The road is named for John Pulling Sr., who was one of Collier Countys most prolific land investors. It already was labeled Airport Road and the hyphen and Pulling were added to it

Barefoot Williams Road

Barefoot Williams Road is named for John Archie "Barefoot" Williams. After moving to Southwest Florida, Williams gave up wearing shoes. He was well known in the community for selling oysters and shellfish to local restaurants and owned an oyster house at the end of that road.

Born on a farm in Sanilac County, Michigan, in 1883, Williams later worked as a streetcar conductor in Flint, the Daily News reported in 2008. He married Jane Wittenmeyer and they had six living children by the time he moved his family to Detroit, where he worked for the Street Railway Co. Williams also worked in a factory and drove a truck for a moving company before eventually moving to Naples.

The road runs southeast off of U.S. 41 East in East Naples, ending at Tower Road that runs east-west.

Goodlette-Frank Road

A constant stream of traffic crosses the intersection of Goodlette-Frank and Pine Ridge roads in Naples, on Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2019.

The Goodlette half of this road name comes from Richard H. Goodlette, a Collier County commissioner from 1956-60 and past president of the Naples Board of Realtors. Goodlette died in 1974. Paul Frank was a pioneer in the 1920s and started swamp buggy races.

Goodlette-Frank Road runs north-south, from Immokalee Road to the north down to U.S. 41 East in Naples.

Vanderbilt Drive, Vanderbilt Beach Road

View from Vanderbilt Beach Drive/Vanderbilt Road. Undated vintage photo.

Vanderbilt Drive and Vanderbilt Beach Road are named after the beach. But, in order to understand the meaning behind the road names, we must know the meaning behind the beach name.

When JB Conners came to SWFL, he named a beach Vanderbilt beach to give the impression of wealth and to encourage the area to be prestigious.

Gordon Drive

The swank, palm tree-lined Gordon Drive  home to some of the most expensive mansions in Collier County  was named after Roger Gordon, one of the first settlers in Naples.

The Gordon Pass and Gordon River are also named after him.

Traffic backs up at Immokalee Road and I-75 in Naples on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024.

Immokalee Road

Immokalee Road for years was a two-lane road. But expansion westward away from Naples led to construction projects in the last couple decades. The road connects Immokalee to North Naples and is a major east-west road in Collier County.

Vote now in our poll: Best French fries in Naples, Marco Island

Immokalee translates to "my home" in Miccosukee.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: How Collier County streets got their names: Here's a sampling
Everything to know about venomous snakes in Memphis from 'The Reptile Guy'

The onset of summer means more time spent outside, on hikes and swimming in lakes. With the warmer temperatures and rise in outdoor activities, The Memphis Zoo Herpetarium can help you be more aware of the slithering creatures that will sometimes be your company in the lakes and forests.

The Herpetarium contains a menagerie of amphibian friends and a collection of enthusiastic zookeepers.

On my recent visit the zoo, the energetic Herpetarium staff seems perfectly at ease in an environment that, to most people, would seem treacherous. Each herpetologist, technician, and veterinarian is visibly passionate about the reptilian inhabitants, even going so far as to point out genetically unique Caecilians and answer a reporter's many questions.

Associate Curator of Herpetology Chris Baker holds up a Southern copperhead, which is often found in Overton Park, within the herpetarium at Memphis Zoo in Memphis, Tenn., on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Facts about snakes that would make most people squirm merely draw out the fascination of Heratarium staffers.

Chris Baker, 'The Reptile Guy'

As you might expect, the Memphis Zoo has a quintessential "reptile guy"  and, arguably, he knows more about snakes and other reptiles than anyone else in Memphis.

And the reptile guy, Chris Baker, has an official title. He is the associate curator of reptiles and aquatics and has worked with reptiles at the Memphis Zoo for 25 years. When I recently visited the Herpetarium, Baker casually recited a plethora of facts about snakes in Tennessee while handling a Madagascar Tree Boa as she was getting surgery. Yes, you read that correctly, a snake was having surgery.

Associate Curator of Herpetology Chris Baker holds Edward Tiny Hands a blue-tongued skink within the herpetarium at Memphis Zoo in Memphis, Tenn., on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Baker is also vice chair of the American Zoo Association, Snake Taxon Advisory group and holds the studbook for Komodo Dragons. I know where every single one of the 147 US Komodo dragons are living currently. I know their relatedness. I know their parentage. I know everything there is to know about their makeup, Baker said.

Baker refuses to name his favorite animal in an interview.

What are the venomous snakes in Tennessee?

Eleanor Calhoun, 10, and her brother George Calhoun, 7, look in at a snake in an exhibit within the herpetarium at Memphis Zoo in Memphis, Tenn., on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Baker walked me through the venomous snakes that live in the three-state Mid-South area and adjacent counties.

The copperheads, cottonmouths, and timber rattlesnakes are the most common, venomous snakes that live in the Memphis Area. Small pygmy rattlesnakes are often found around Pickwick Lake.

Copperheads are usually found in wooded areas in leaf litter, logs, or rocks for cover. Cottonmouths live in swamps, sloughs, and wetlands, and can be found in rivers and lakes, hence the name "water moccasin." The timber rattlesnake is the largest and most dangerous snake in Tennessee and also lives primarily in wooded forests.

According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, out of the 33 species of snakes in Tennessee, only four are venomous. Although snakes, particularly venomous snakes, are certainly nothing to take lightly, Baker said: Snakes bite people when people force interactions with snakes. Snakes don't seek you out to bite you."

A reticulated python opens its mouth in its exhibit within the herpetarium at Memphis Zoo in Memphis, Tenn., on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

'Snakes are cool'

When asked, Baker told me why he finds snakes so interesting, Biologically, their natural history is interesting, complex, and fairly misunderstood and snakes are just cool. Things are cool in and of themselves. I don't have to say it's cool. It just is."

That sentiment shined through in his care of the reptiles, as he fearlessly but gently handles various snakes and skinks. Chris knows each animal by name and even personality. Every reptile that I met came with a story, and Baker told the stories with enthusiasm.

Nova Kennedy, 2, and her grandfather Terry Anderson look in at a prairie rattlesnake in an exhibit within the herpetarium at Memphis Zoo in Memphis, Tenn., on Thursday, June 6, 2024.

"To me, it's a little bit silly to have to see a value in something in order for it to be unique, interesting or (to be) something we're studying," Chris said about snakes.

Nell Rainer is a reporter for The Commercial Appeal. You can reach her at nell.rainer@commercialappeal.com

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: What to know about venomous snakes in Memphis from 'The Reptile Guy'
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.

Wildfires and extreme heat are contributing to climate anxiety. (Photo by ALBERTA WILDFIRE/HANDOUT/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Thousands of Canadians have been forced to evacuate their homes as wildfires continue to burn in British Columbia and Alberta. In Jasper, Alta., a popular tourist spot located approximately 288 kilometres from Banff, firefighters are reportedly facing 300- to 400-foot flames with a fire-spread rate of 15 metres per minute. The city is reporting 30 -50 per cent structural damage, however Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has vowed that the province "will recover" from the devastation.

Amidst extreme heat, wildfires and climate change, some Canadians are feeling uncertain about the future of the environment. Annie Malik, a 33 year old living in London, Ont., often feels anxious or overwhelmed by the environmental state of the planet: Recent heatwaves in Pakistan (where shes from), heat warnings and record-breaking temperatures in the summer coupled with mild winters in Canada and air pollution from wildfires that are becoming more common during the summer months.

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What is going to happen to the world? If the planet is inhabitable, how are we going to live? Malik previously told Yahoo Canada. Her family still resides in Pakistan, where air conditioning units are a luxury amid soaring temperatures and a spike in heat-related illnesses.

Theres no way I can go back during the summers because I cant handle the heat. ... People are dying every day in the summer, Malik noted, adding she worries for her family.

Annie Malik, a 33 year old living in London, Ont. said her biggest worry around climate change is her family in Pakistan. She can no longer visit during the hot summer months and she thinks about her family's survival. (Image provided by Annie Malik)

Maliks sentiments are echoed by many Canadians who are feeling eco-anxious, or emotional from the effects of climate change, especially since last years record-breaking wildfires. According to a 2023 survey by Unite For Change, 75 per cent of Canadians are experiencing anxiety about climate change and its impacts.

If the planet is inhabitable, how are we going to live?Annie Malik

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Yahoo Canada recently spoke to Canadians about their eco-anxiety, as well as a mental health expert on how to cope.

What is climate anxiety?

Climate anxiety, ecological grief and solastalgia are all similar terms to describe the emotional distress caused by environmental changes. The American Psychological Association defines it as a chronic fear of environmental doom and recognizes it as a legitimate increasing mental health concern.

Cree Lambeck, clinical director at Cherry Tree Counselling, offers eco-counselling services and said some clients can present with both physical and mental health symptoms from ecological issues. For example, someone might struggle with asthma and breathing issues from air pollution. Other times a person can feel stress or really powerless around climate change, said Lambeck.

What are the signs & symptoms of climate anxiety?

According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, symptoms of eco-anxiety can include:

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Feelings of depression, anxiety or panic

Grief and sadness over the loss of natural environments

Existential dread

Guilt related to your carbon footprint

Anger or frustration toward government officials

Obsessive thoughts about the climate

How to cope with climate anxiety

Heather Mak is a 42 year old from Toronto who said shes felt eco-anxious for well over a decade, which "can feel overwhelming."

Mak transitioned out of a marketing career into the sustainability field, hoping she could take control of some of her anxieties. She's currently in corporate sustainability, working with large businesses on environmental and social issues, and she runs a nonprofit called Diversity in Sustainability.

Heather Mak is a 42 year old living in Toronto and she changed careers from marketing to sustainability. Mak said taking action in her work helps her cope with her eco-anxiety, but a side effect is that she can get burnt out from ongoing crises. (Image provided by Heather Mak)

How I try to deal with it is by taking action, she said. But then again, when you start working in this field, its almost like you can never sleep, because the scope of the issue just keeps getting bigger.

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How I try to deal with it is by taking action.Heather Mak

Last year, Mak heard about the Climate Psychology Alliance and started seeing a climate-aware psychologist to help her process some of her feelings from eco-anxiety, as well as burnout from her work.

As recommended by her psychologist, Mak tries to immerse herself in nature as much as possible to keep herself grounded. Theres also groups called climate cafes, Mak said. I think just chatting with others who are going through the same thing really helps.

Other times, Mak will channel her energy into writing letters to elected officials.

Set boundaries and concrete strategies: Expert

At Cherry Tree Counselling, Lambeck offers clients walk and talk ecotherapy. The sessions can be in-person or over the phone and both the therapist and client will chat outdoors.

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Lambeck said many people access eco-counselling services, from adolescents to seniors. People can experience [climate anxiety] throughout their lifespan and it can present in different ways  like with parenting, Lambeck said. Some research has found that young adults are even hesitant to have kids due to climate change. Theres a lot of existential worry associated with global crises.

Its important to take breaks and set those boundaries and practice self-care and find social support in those times.Cree Lambeck, clinical director at Cherry Tree Counselling

Considering environmental issues can impact many prongs in someones life, like family planning or lifestyle choices, Lambeck said she tries to offer clients practical tools and concrete strategies that might help tackle some of the turmoil. For instance, she might help target some ways a person can reduce their carbon footprint, identify some of their core values, or try to find opportunities or sustainable initiatives the person might be able to participate in.

For some people, this can help provide a sense of empowerment or control if theyre feeling helpless. Engaging in meaning-focused coping and finding purpose, Lambeck said.

Another strategy is to focus on boundary setting or limit the exposure of distressing news. What is the balance between staying informed or excess consumption? Lambeck said. Images of burning forests, oil spills and floods are plentiful and distressing and can exacerbate our eco-anxiety. So its important to take breaks and set those boundaries and practice self-care and find social support in those times, she added.

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Updated: Pride Picnic 2024 has been canceled, but a celebration will still be held at 8th Street Ale Haus June 22

Members of Our Voice Milwaukee, a chorus for gay men and allies, sing during the Sheboygan County LGBTQ Alliances Pride Picnic in Sheboygan at City Green, Saturday, June 24, 2023, in Sheboygan, Wis.

Picnic canceled: Severe weather has caused the Sheboygan Pride Picnic to be canceled June 22, but a celebration will still go on at 8th Street Ale Haus starting at 7 p.m. June 22. Click here for full details.

SHEBOYGAN  The fourth Pride Picnic returns to Sheboygan for a day of queer joy and celebration.

The Sheboygan County LGBTQ Alliance-sponsored event will have several food trucks, musical performances and drag performances, a popular request from last year. It will also be two hours longer than it has been in the past.

It's going to be a day of joy and community and kindness and acceptance, Pride Picnic organizer Maggie Hernandez said. I think that's something that I'm always most excited for each year  is just watching the joy of everyone there in attendance.

Some of Hernandezs favorite parts of Pride are interacting with parents of LGBTQ+ people at the Alliance booth, who often ask for their advice and thank them for their patience.

It really warms my heart, she said.

Each performance will have American Sign Language interpreters to expand inclusivity. Hernandez said the Alliance tried to bring in ALS interpreters last year, but they canceled the week of the event.

Post event, when we asked ourselves, Was this event inclusive? Was everyone brought in and welcomed to this community that we are and the space that we are creating? Hernandez said. "And when we really thought about it, we were like, No, the deaf and hard of hearing community was not considered.

Hernandez said the Alliance plans to include ALS interpreters for other events, too.

Pride Picnic booths will feature local businesses, queer artists

The event will bring together more than 30 local businesses, nonprofits and queer artists.

Some include the Boys & Girls Club of Sheboygan County, House of Spiritual Vibes, Chicory Root Tattoo Studio, Mental Health America, Lakeshore Community Health, Hello Happiness Creativity Center, and City Vintage and Thrift. A group of local open and affirming churches will also participate.

Food trucks will feature Paradigm Coffee and Music, Peja Vu, the John Michael Kohler Arts Center art car, Thai Express, Handheld Delights and Coors Lounge.

Part of Seventh Street, between New York and Wisconsin avenues, will be closed to allow room for the trucks.

Some local businesses have donated portions of their proceeds to the Alliance throughout the month, like Biggby Coffee and Serendipity Cut Flowers.

What to know about 8th Streatery: Sheboygans 8th Streatery: How to dine in the street with these 5 restaurants this summer

Performances include live music and drag artists

The Pride Picnic will showcase musical artists and drag performers. Here are some artists to expect:

The Stinkeyes

Cathy Grier

Joe Mama

The Mistress

2 R.I.S.E.

Melee Queen

Tamara Knight

PonyBoy

Lyla Christina Versace

Pride Picnic will be held at City Green this weekend

Pride Picnic is from noon to 8 p.m. June 22 at the City Green, 710 New York Ave.

Have a story tip? Contact Alex Garner at 224-374-2332 or agarner@gannett.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @alexx_garner.

This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Sheboygan Pride Picnic 2024 at City Green has food trucks, drag artists
Joe Moore was a teacher and a principal in Maine public schools for 40 years. He spent the first eight years of his retirement tutoring students, but when Moores wife discovered that School Around Us in Arundel was looking for a part-time teacher and administrator, she urged him to consider it.

I thought I would be out of my element, Moore told me when I met him earlier this month at the school, where he has worked since last fall. I quickly became a convert. This fits what kids need. Parents are making this choice to meet the needs of their kids because public schools cant do it anymore. Im absolutely sold on what happens here, he added.

What happens is deep, joyful learning tied to student interests that blends academic and social-emotional skills in a relaxed, nature-based setting.

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Founded in 1970 by a group of parents looking for a more holistic educational approach for their children, School Around Us operated as a state-recognized K-8 private school until 2020 when the school leaders decided to shift away from a traditional schooling model to a learning community serving homeschoolers.

Its part of a growing trend, both in Maine and nationally, of new schools and spaces offering smaller, more individualized, more flexible learning options that parents and teachers desire. Many of these programs, including School Around Us, are part of the VELA Founder Network that supports alternative education environments across the U.S. with grants and entrepreneurial resources.

Related

Exclusive: Microschools Fill Niche for Students with Disabilities, Survey Shows

Converting to a homeschooling community has enabled School Around Us to serve the rapidly growing population of homeschoolers in their area. According to the new Johns Hopkins University Homeschool Hub, homeschooling numbers now hover around six percent of the total K-12 school-age population, a dramatic increase from pre-pandemic estimates. Maine has seen its homeschooling numbers remain high since 2020.

We have doubled in size since before the pandemic and our numbers keep climbing, said Amy Wentworth, a Maine certified teacher who attended School Around Us as a child and has taught there for over 20 years. School Around Us now serves 43 students with both full-time and part-time enrollment options. Wentworth says that since 2020, parents are looking to be more involved with their childrens education and appreciate more personalized learning options  especially immersive ones like School Around Us that embrace Maines natural beauty and abundant community resources.

Its reinvigorated me in my teaching, said Wentworth about her programs shift from operating as a private school to a homeschooling co-learning community. I feel rejuvenated with excitement and huge possibilities for the future.

Ning Sawangjaeng feels similarly rejuvenated. A longtime teacher at an established Montessori school in Maine, Sawangjaeng was eager for a new opportunity. She joined the Giving Tree Learning Center in Camden as its founding Lead Guide when the program launched in September 2023. The core of Giving Tree is that kids can be happy and be themselves, Sawangjaeng told me during my visit, adding that the hours the children spend each day outside and in the forest trails surrounding the center are crucial to their overall learning and growth.

Jessica Mazur, cofounder of Giving Tree Learning Center. (Kerry McDonald)

Jessica Mazur, along with Isabella Wincklhofer, cofounded Giving Tree to meet the needs of their children and others in their community.

A former operations leader at Apple who now runs her own small consulting business, Mazur explained how the pandemic shifted her views on education. Her oldest child had attended local public schools, but during school closures and the ongoing education disruption of 2020 and beyond, Mazur began to consider alternatives to conventional schooling. As schooling returned to normal, she and several other parents in her community were already hooked on a different vision for education. Once we saw what education could be, we couldnt unsee it, said Mazur.

Like so many entrepreneurial parents, Mazur decided to build what she couldnt find: a personalized, Montessori-inspired, nature-based learning space for a mixed-age group of homeschoolers ages five and up. Giving Tree now serves 20 learners ages five to 12 with most choosing to attend the center four days a week. Part-time enrollment options are also available, and interest in the program continues to spread through parent word of mouth.

Jaclyn Gallo, founder of Roots Academy in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. (Kerry McDonald)

Thats also how Roots Academy in Cape Elizabeth has grown from six kids in the fall of 2020 to 36 K-5 students for the upcoming school year.

Like Mazur, Rootss founder, Jaclyn Gallo, realized during the pandemic that she needed to take charge of her childrens education. She opened her state-recognized private school in a yoga studio during its first year, but demand kept growing for her personalized, place-based educational mode where all children are taught by certified teachers. Last fall, Gallo expanded to a new, large building with abundant outdoor space and wooded trails to accommodate continued growth.

For all 12 of next years kindergarteners, Roots will be their first schooling experience. Unlike many of the students in the older grades  including Gallos daughter  who left a traditional public school for Roots, the parents of her kindergarteners knew early on that they wanted an alternative to conventional schooling for their children.

There is a growing awareness by parents that, especially in the early grades, what is being asked of children is not developmentally appropriate, said Gallo, explaining that the rigidity and standardization of traditional schooling prevents a more individualized, play-filled, organic approach to learning and child development. Its the system not the kids, said Gallo, adding that many parents  including her and her husband  moved to this town specifically for the

public schools. Many of us want to believe in the public schools ideologically, but its just not working for some kids. Still, Gallo is committed to forging relationships with the local public elementary school and finding ways to collaborate.

Gallo expects to grow her school to a maximum of about 60 or 70 kids over the coming years, retaining the microschool model that she thinks is so crucial to learning. She hopes to help other entrepreneurial parents and teachers open microschools similar to Roots in their own neighborhoods. Being super big defeats the purpose of what were doing. I like knowing each kid and their families. The family relationships are so important, she said.

Adrienne Hofmann, founder of Nature Play All Day. (Kerry McDonald)

About 100 miles north, in rural Appleton, Adrienne Hofmann is also focused on creating an intentionally small, relationship-based, outdoor-focused learning community.

A former public school teacher in Texas who is also a certified teacher in the state of Maine, Hofmann became more familiar with homeschooling and alternative education during the pandemic. She began formulating her vision for Nature Play All Day, a newly-licensed, forest-filled early childhood program. Before this venture, nearly every program I worked for didnt feel quite right, leaving me yearning for something more fulfilling, Hofmann told me when I visited her programs lovely yurt site. This journey inspired me to create a supportive and nurturing environment initially designed for homeschooling families and now geared toward those seeking a nature and play-based experience, reminiscent of our own childhoods.

Located on an off-the-grid, 18-acre parcel, Nature Play All Day will open this fall, enabling children from ages two to six to spend all day outside, playing freely, with no top-down impositions on their learning. Access is crucial for Hofmann, and Maines child care subsidies will enable more families to choose her program.

Like all of the founders and educators I met during my Maine visit, Hofmann believes that we are only at the beginning of a growing movement toward smaller, simpler, more holistic educational models. Prompted by the pandemic, more parents and teachers are now seeking and building homespun alternatives to conventional schooling.

I like to think that one of the best things to come out of COVID is just how simple things can be, said Hofmann.
In 1945, a 14-year-old named Zenon (Zeke) Trojanoski dipped under telephone wires and grazed against the cornfields of Caledonia and Mumford, New York, in a plane he rented himself.

Zeke spent years saving money from his job at a bowling alley, where he set pins for 10 cents a game, to pay for flying lessons. When he graduated high school at 16, he entered the Air Force with the dream of becoming a pilot. Zekes father had other hopes for his son  a life on the farm, working with family. Zeke complied.

He spent the rest of his life working as a farmer and a mason and passed away on April 19, 2024, at the age of 93.

In 1953, Zeke married Jacqueline Walters who grew up in poverty. The newlyweds took it upon themselves to make room for Jacquelines seven siblings, all of whom were able to graduate high school, get married, get jobs and create lives for themselves.

Zenon (Zeke) Trojanoski served in the Air Force.

Being a depression-era child, he didnt have much, said his granddaughter, Julie Bennett, but what he did have, he shared.

Zeke quietly provided for his community as well. As a mason, he offered three payment options for customers on a budget; one in which he provided the materials and labor, one in which he provided the labor and one in which the customers assisted him themselves and provided lunch. When customers opted for option three, he often provided the labor for free to the customers surprise. Zeke respected the initiative they took to help themselves and that meant more to him than being paid.

An unyielding work ethic and tenacity guided Zeke throughout his entire 93 years. As a mason and farmer, he cultivated life and built homes, as well as communities.

Photo of Zenon (Zeke) Trojanoski as a young man.

Although he was never able to fulfill his dream of becoming an Air Force pilot, Zeke created the foundation for a large, close-knit family system and planted the seeds that allowed for the dreams of others to flourish.

Suggest a Lives Remembered story subject

Have you recently lost a loved one, friend or colleague whose life you would like to see featured here? Pleaseshare a link to their obituary, published in the last three months, along with a paragraph on what stood outabout their life. Send suggestions to madeline.g.lathrop@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Zeke Trojanoski's work ethic and tenacity benefited his community
For young adults with disabilities, the period after high school graduation can present uncertainty in many forms. A Blount County nonprofit, Special Growers, aims to remedy that.

Special Growers' job training program employs "any disabled individual that has a positive attitude and desire to develop new skills," according to its website. Employees work in its gardens and greenhouses to grow fresh herbs and flowers for the community.

Herbs are grown for local restaurants such as Blackberry Farm, Emilia, A Dopo and Potchke, and flowers are delivered to residents and businesses around Blount County.

"We were founded on the aspect of taking individuals out of high school with very limited job opportunities," said Kent Davis, board president and founder. Special Growers can be a "transitional step" that prepares staff for future employment opportunities, although employees are able to stay with Special Growers as long as they'd like. There are currently about 50 individuals employed by the nonprofit.

Special Growers bring new flowers to McGhee Tyson Airport

If you've ever flown into or out of Knoxville, you've passed by the water feature at McGhee Tyson Airport. If you've looked closely, you might have noticed the flowers - what the airport staffers call "the color" - in between the larger greenery around the water feature's perimeter.

The flowers are rotated quarterly "to represent what is blooming in East Tennessee," said Caitlin Darras, senior public relations specialist at McGhee Tyson. Typically, this rotation is handled by the grounds maintenance group APHIX, which also oversees maintenance of the water feature.

Special Growers employee Vanessa Cleary digs a hole for a plant in a planter at McGhee Tyson Airport.

This summer, "the color" at the airport is courtesy of Special Growers. On May 21, the team stopped by to plant an assortment of vegetation, including begonias and coleuses. APHIX agreed to adjust its contract with McGhee Tyson for the summer so that employees at Special Growers could be compensated for their work, which also includes weekly maintenance of the flowers.

"Special Growers was just a wonderful fit," Darras said of the airport's decision to hire the group this summer.

Special Growers staff members are excited about the opportunity, too. "It's incredible. It's an honor to be here, to see our work in a beautiful facility, to be with other kids who have disabilities, to have other people just like you," said Vanessa Cleary. "We know what we're capable of."

"I also love Special Growers because of the beauty of God's creation," said staff member Emily Knapp.

The plants added by Special Growers will be on display at the airport through mid-August.

Hayden Dunbar is the storyteller reporter. Email hayden.dunbar@knoxnews.com.

Support strong local journalism by subscribing at knoxnews.com/subscribe.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Flowers grown by nonprofit Special Growers greet travelers at airport
Miss Wisconsin Rapids' Teen Addison Morin says she has broken out of shell and is ready to compete for state title

Miss Wisconsin Rapids' Teen Addison Morin laughs with her interviewers during her final mock interview on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at The Ridges Golf Course in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., to prepare for the fast-approaching Miss Wisconsin's Teen competition June 21 in Oshkosh.

WISCONSIN RAPIDS  Addison Morin is ready to compete on stage this week to vie for the title of Miss Wisconsins Teen 2024.

Morin stood in shock Oct. 28 as she was crowned Miss Wisconsin Rapids' Teen. Now, about eight months later, Morin, 15, said she has reached beyond her comfort zone, broken out of her shell and has grown to be a better person throughout her community. She said she was always able to talk to people, but she has grown more comfortable in public speaking and has been able to speak in front of several groups.

Through the Miss Wisconsin Rapids Teen program, part of the Miss Wisconsin Rapids Scholarship Organization, each girl chooses a topic to advocate for throughout her year of service, called a community service initiative.

Morin chose Specializing Special Education: Creating Acceptance and has advocated for programs and resources throughout the community. At the end of May, Addison spoke at her little sisters school at Grove Elementarys Future Forward graduation. The program at Grove helps children improve their reading skills. Morin said it was rewarding to speak at that event, promoting special education and making sure people have access to helpful resources.

Throughout the last few months, Morin said she has loved sharing her story with people throughout the community, making connections with other people and sharing their stories, as well.

Miss Wisconsin Rapids' Teen Addison Morin spins a fidget ring during her final mock interview on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at The Ridges Golf Course in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., ahead of the fast-approaching Miss Wisconsin's Teen competition June 21 in Oshkosh. Addison has ADHD and dyslexia but she does not let those diagnoses define her, instead she finds ways that help her stay calm and focus like her fidget ring.

If I am doing it, so can you, she said.

Serving as Miss Wisconsin Rapids Teen has filled Morin with joy, she said. Her favorite appearance so far has been the Father Daughter Dance at the South Wood County YMCA, watching families come together and make connections and memories. She has also enjoyed participating in local parades.

Morin is one of 23 contestants

Morin will join 22 other girls to compete for the title of Miss Wisconsins Teen 2024 starting at 6:30 p.m. Friday at the Alberta Kimball Auditorium in Oshkosh.

In April, the contestants met in Oshkosh for Prep Day, learning more information about the June competition. Morin said she thought meeting the other girls would feel more competitive, but they were all so friendly and genuine, and she immediately made so many connections and friendships. She said they started a group chat and have been talking ever since.

When it comes to preparing for the competition, Morin said shes more excited than nervous. She has worked two to three days per week on all aspects of competition, including walking, interview and perfecting her talent. She said she will sing Almost There from Disneys Princess and the Frog, and she has spent the last several months tweaking and growing her vocal performance.

Miss Wisconsin Rapids' Teen Addison Morin and Miss Wisconsin Rapids Aleigh Weight fix their hair before their final mock interviews on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at The Ridges Golf Course in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., ahead of the fast-approaching Miss Wisconsin's Teen and Miss Wisconsin competitions in Oshkosh.

More about the Miss Wisconsin's Teen competition

All contestants will compete in multiple areas of competition. A 10-minute private interview will make up 30% of a contestants score. A 90-second talent performance, the evening gown portion and a showcase of the contestant's commitment to health and fitness will each make up 20% of her score. During the competition, each contestant will answer one on-stage question about her community service initiative for 10% of her score.

For more information or to purchase tickets to watch the competition in person or online through the livestream, visit misswisconsin.org.

More about Addison: 'Nobody is normal': Meet Addison Morin, Miss Wisconsin Rapids' Teen 2024

Contact Caitlin at cshuda@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @CaitlinShuda.

This article originally appeared on Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune: Miss Wisconsin Rapids' Teen Addison Morin ready for state competition
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, June 19. The Turkmen Nedir Gala company and the Austrian Spak GmbH signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the beginning of cooperation in the production of ketchup and mayonnaise in Turkmenistan, Trend reports.

According to the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Austria, this document was signed within the framework of the official visit of the Turkmen delegation to Vienna (Austria) to participate in the 12th meeting of the Joint Turkmen-Austrian Commission.

The memorandum also provides for the expansion of exports of these manufactured products to the countries of the EU and Central Asia.

In general, several field visits to production sites and meetings were organized for Turkmen entrepreneurs in order to develop bilateral cooperation and study innovative entrepreneurial and industrial practices.

Meanwhile, Turkmenistan is actively developing cooperation with foreign companies in the food industry, which contributes to the introduction of advanced technologies and increased production capacity.

As a result of such cooperation, the country gets access to new markets and technologies, which stimulates economic growth and modernizes the industry.
Editors note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal.

Downtown Orlando will see an influx of musicians, dancers and more during certain parts of the day thanks to a new program.

The city of Orlando on June 18 launched its DTOLive! Program. Set to run through June 2025, 12 public areas in downtown will host 850 events and art experiences at different times such as lunch, during happy hour and on the weekend.

Read: Scared me to death: Apopka woman finds small alligator hiding in her garage

The Orlando Community Redevelopment Agency and Downtown Development Board is working with United Arts of Central Florida, the Creative City Project and the Downtown Arts District as part of the $1.36 million effort.

Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journals website.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.




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When I first got the invite to Sofitels Panama hotel, I misread the email as an invite to Panama City, Florida, which was not at the top of my bucket list for U.S. cities to visit. After reading the email a little closer, I learned I was invited to the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo in Panama... the country. I had never been to Panama before, so I figured itd be a great opportunity to check out the hotel and visit a new place. Still, I didnt know much about Panamaall I knew was that Id be staying at a charming five-star hotel located on the eastern edge of the citys historic Casco Viejo District in celebration of its one-year anniversary.

The flight from LAX is a little over six hours long, and I was graciously upgraded to business class by Copa Airlines, Panamas official airline. The international airline has flights from 16 destinations in the U.S. Copa Airlines also has a Panama Stopover program, which allows you to make a pit stop in Panama for anywhere from 24 hours to seven days without paying additional airfare to go to or return from your final destination. Once I landed, it was only about a 30-minute drive from the airport.

Sofitel.

When we pulled up to the hotel, I was struck by how pristine the all-white, French-inspired hotel looked situated along the waters edge. The 159 guest room property, nestled tightly between old cobblestone roads, was by no means opulent but was a stark contrast to the rest of the rustic buildings we had just driven by. The hotel, which is more than one hundred years old (and was first built in 1917), is teeming with history. The original structure, designed by legendary American architect James C. Wright, was originally known as the Club Union, an exclusive social club for local businessmen and foreign ambassadors, including Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth II. Its since been reimagined, but details of that time period are still threaded throughout the present-day architecture and decor.

Panama is humid, so walking into the air-conditioned, tiled lobby was the perfect welcome. The lobby boasted a massive fresco map of the Panama Canal, stunning ornate chandeliers, lots of windows, and the chic Mayda Lobby Bar, where many a cocktail would be had during my stay. Even though it was only a three-hour time difference from California, I was more jet-lagged than I anticipated (probably because I took the red-eye flight). After being ushered to my suite, I proceeded to pass out immediately in the supremely comfortable bed.

Sofitel

I stayed in one of the hotels suites, the Magnifique oceanfront room, which came with a very charming iron balcony, complete with classic French doors that overlooked the water, perfectly framing the Panama City Skyline. The room itself was complete with a four-poster bed, the softest white linen sheets and cushiest mattress, mahogany floors, and a plush velvety blue couch. For me, the best part of the room was the sprawling marble bathroom with brass hardware fixtures and a not-to-be-missed standalone cobalt blue tub (which I took full advantage of throughout the trip).

After a long slumber, my first order of business in the morning was finding a coffee at the attached Vera Cafe, where I tried the most delicious fresh iced ginger latte (which was so good I ordered it on repeat for the rest of my trip). We kicked off the next day with a four-hour walking tour and window shopping at a local Panama hat vendor. My favorite part was the friendly local street cats greeting us at every turn. Once we returned back to the hotel, I decided to explore the grounds. Overall, it has a quaint but luxe feel with a small pool area perfectly overlooking the sea. The adjacent kitchen and bar offer fresh poolside snacks like juices and smoothies, quinoa bowls, and tropical cocktails.

Sofitel.

The hotel spa experience was exceptionalin fact, it was one of the best deep-tissue massages Ive ever had. As far as off-site excursions, Id recommend stopping at Cantina del Tigre restaurant, which is ranked no. 25 on the 2023 list of Latin Americas 50 Best Restaurants. Our group made a pit stop there before an obligatory visit to the Panama Canal, and with innovative veggie-filled options like vegan ceviche and Arroz Rojo, it did not disappoint.

Another cant-miss activity (which can be organized through the front desk of the hotel) is a visit to the Embera Tribe, one of the seven Indigenous groups of Panama. I wont spoil the full experience, but after a scenic 25-minute canoe ride along the Chagres River, youll find yourself in a small, remote community where you can expect to be embraced by the Embera. There, youll learn all about their history and customs; its truly a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience.

Sofitel.

On our second to last night, we dined at a property at Caleta, operated by Michelin-starred chef Lorenzo Di Gravio. The polished space, complete with Mahogany paneling, leather banquettes, and distressed mirrors, gives it a vibey upscale Parisian brasserie feel. We were lucky enough to dine in the private second-floor dining room, and there was no shortage of seafood plates like fresh oysters, cilantro-loaded octopus, and shrimp curry.

On our final evening at the property, we checked out Ammi Skybar, the hotels rooftop bar, for cocktails and apps. Our last stop before retiring to bed was Arcano, the secret speakeasy (located in an undisclosed location on the premises). Inside the low-lit space, you can expect cocktails paired with tarot cards and other fun surprises, but you have to know someone to get in. Definitely inquire upon check-in.

Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo

Sofitel.

After four culture-filled days, it was time to return back to realitysomething I was not looking forward to after such a wonderful stay. This was the first time Id been on a press trip and truly felt immersed in the local culture. From the historical hotel to immersive excursions, I left feeling genuinely enriched. If you find yourself in Panama City for work or pleasure, make sure you book a stay at Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo.

Buy Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo at Booking.com, $null

Buy Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo at Tripadvisor, $null

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MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  When couples get married, they promise to stay faithful for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health.

One Saraland couple meant that when they said their vows a few months ago.

Fairhope High School senior shines on Broadway

Before they got married, the bride donated a kidney to her future groom.

Photo: Jake Cannon

Conner and Olivia Denton had the wedding of their dreams in April 2024. Conner felt better than ever. Olivia had given him a kidney eight months earlier.

It was like seeing an angel walking down the aisle, Conner said. She was beautiful.

Conner was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease over a decade ago. Doctors told him that eventually, he would need a new kidney. In 2022, he met Olivia. He told her that at some point, he would probably have to undergo a kidney transplant.

Baldwin Family Village marks first year as formerly homeless families find stability

Olivia didnt hesitate. She told him she would give him one if she were a match. Shortly after, his need for a kidney became dire. She didnt hesitate to step up.

I stayed up at night just crying, Olivia said. I fell in love with this man. His little boy needs him, and I need him. Honestly, it was a selfish reason. We need him.

Conner, Olivia, and Conners son, Beckham, celebrate

their engagement.

Olivia and Conner both had O blood types. One was positive, and one was negative, which is known as the universal donor blood type, making them a match. They couldnt believe the news when they found out!

I ran downstairs, Olivia told WKRG. I worked in a two-story building, and screamed, We are a matcha perfect match! I cant believe it!'

Neighbors react after Ring doorbell footage shows man throwing wrench

I went around and told everyone at work, and everybody said Man you better hold onto her! And I said, Man, I already have those plans in place,' Conner said.

He had big plans. The surgery was scheduled for August 2023, but first, Conner wanted to let his future donor know that he wanted her to be his wife. He proposed to her in front of a crowd of thousands at Blue Wahoos Stadium. She said yes!

They do the kiss cam. I pull the ring out. I dont know how many thousands can fit in a stadium. It felt like 10,000 hearing the crowdall the emotions, Conner shared.

It was a complete surprise, Olivia replied. He really pulled it off.

3rd Annual Home Expo coming to Baldwin County

As a newly engaged couple, the two headed to UAB in August 2023. The two were nervous but hopeful. They remember the moments before they were both taken back for their surgeries.

We prayed and kissed each other, the couple said. We took a moment and told each other we loved each other, and no matter what, we would be here for each other in the end.

This photo was taken post-surgery.

Both of the surgeries were successful. Olivia stayed in the hospital for a few days before returning to Saraland. She says the process of donating was not that bad. She says months later, she has no side effects and does not have to take any medication.

She said her body functions perfectly with just one kidney. She hopes she can be an example for others not to be afraid to donate.

Gulf Shores officials warn of unsafe surf conditions after drowning, 2 swimmers saved

I never knew that by putting that little donor on my license, I would actually be a living donor, that that would come to life.

Since the surgery, Conner said he is feeling amazing. He is very thankful for his wifes selfless donation.

I have told people that after the initial transplant, I have had more trouble going to sleep, just night and day difference, Conner said.

His energy, Olivia chimed in, I used to run circles around him. Now I am more tired than he is.

Baptist Cancer Institute hosting free skin cancer screening event

There wasnt a dry eye in the entire venue during the Dentons wedding ceremony in April. The two of them mentioned the kidney donation in their vows.

Photo: Jake Cannon

I said in my vows that I would always be the right to his left, even though he has my left kidney, Olivia said.

Its the biggest sacrifice anyone can make, to give a part of herself to save me, Conner said. It was in my vows. She loves me like Jesus does.

This council and administration is a circus: Prine supporter attends Mobile City Council meeting dressed as clown

Olivia even said vows to Conners son, Beckham, promising to be a special part of his life as his stepmother.

Courtesy: Jake Cannon

The Dentons hope that others hear their story and realize the importance of organ donation.

The lord was involved throughout the whole thing. That is a huge part of our story, Olivia said.

Summerdale Fire Department to get new equipment thanks to grant

I couldnt be more thankful for this woman here. She has blessed my life in so many ways. She saved my life in so many ways, Conner said.

For anyone considering whether to get tested to see if you are a match, you can visit this website to learn more.

Also, Olivia received financial assistance while she was out of work for the surgery from the National Living Donor Assistance Program. The organization helped with lodging, gas and food.

Photo: Jake Cannon

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.
As part of Smokey Bear's 80th birthday party in Rhinelander, organizers will hold a dessert competition inspired by this year's Wisconsin-themed season of "Top Chef."

Anybody is welcome to enter the competition, which will be held at a reception organized by Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest officials from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. July 2.

The event will unveil a multi-day exhibit of 19 iconic Smokey Bear illustrations created between 1977 and 1995 by Forest Service artist Rudolph "Rudy" Wendelin. It all will take place at Rhinelander's Pioneer Park Historical Complex, located at the intersection of Oneida Avenue and Ocala Street.

Veronica Hinke, the public affairs officer for the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, said she got the idea for the competition while networking with people from Travel Wisconsin. She learned that state tourism officials were inspired by "Top Chef" and decided to focus their 2024 marketing efforts around a culinary theme.

Hinke thought a dessert competition would help give pizazz to the celebration of Smokey Bear and his influence, but also help bolster the foodie vibes sweeping across the state.

"We thought, what better way to work with our state government partners in support of their campaign for 2024?" Hinke said.

Hinke said the at the heart of of it all is to amplify the message Smokey Bear has been sending for decades: "Only YOU can prevent wildfires."

That message is particularly urgent just before the July 4 holiday weekend, Hinke said.

"If your fire is not out cold, if you can't touch it with bare hands, it's not safe to leave it," she said.

Anyone can enter the Smokey Bear 80th birthday dessert competition. It will be held July 2 at the Pioneer Park Historic Complex in Rhinelander.

How to enter the "Top Chef"-inspired Smokey Bear birthday dessert competition

It's easy! Simply bring an original dessert to the Smokey Bear reception before 5 p.m. There is no need to register in advance, but contestants must be willing to share their desserts and recipes with guests and judges. Contestants are asked to bring a printed copies of the recipes to display alongside their entries.

Submissions have to be homemade and not store bought, and contestants need to use their own dishes and decorations.

How will the dessert competition be judged?

The Smokey Bear birthday desserts will be judged by students from the Forest Service's Blackwell Job Corps Civil Conservation Center, which offers career and job training for financially-disadvantaged youth. Criteria used to rate desserts include overall originality and creativity, flavor, texture, use of ingredients and the ability to communicate Smokey Bear's fire safety message.

Here are some ideas to use in the Smokey Bear birthday dessert competition

Hinke offered some tips to help contestants get started. She suggests that people can decorate jelly roll cakes to look like forest logs or trees, melt hard candles to create "flames" that can be used for decorations, and showcase traditional and Indigenous ingredients of Wisconsin such as cranberries, chokeberries or more. Wild rice could be used to make a savory birthday cake.

Keith Uhlig is a regional features reporter for USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin based in Wausau. Contact him at 715-845-0651 or kuhlig@gannett.com. Follow him at @UhligK on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram or on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Smokey Bear birthday party features 'Top Chef'-inspired event
Sarah Mandel lived with transparency in "both the good and bad" and "let herself feel," her brother says

Courtesy of Rachel Forman Sarah Mandel

On June 1, New York City psychologist and author Sarah Mandel posted a video on social media that stunned even members of her own family.

In the message, Mandel, who was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2017, announced her own death, just weeks away from her 43rd birthday.

"If you're reading these words right now, I have died," states a caption on the video, which featured a mix of personal videos and photos. "I wrote this message the week I was told I had weeks to months to live."

Only a year ago, I never in a million years would have thought I would want my death announced on social media, she continued writing in the captions.

But "life is unpredictable and full of surprises," she wrote, and she had discovered that the support she received from "old friends, new friends and strangers" helped her face even the "toughest days of this cancer ordeal."

"We all need our hands held sometimes," she wrote.



As the video came to a close, Mandel shared her love for her "beloved" husband and their daughters: "I'll write it here, and if I could, I'd write it everywhere. Sophie and Siena, I love you and I am so proud of you. I may be somewhere beyond our concepts of infinity. That's how much I love you."

Her husband, Derek Rodenhausen, tells PEOPLE in an interview that he saw the video after going on Instagram to check if anyone had posted about Mandel's death.

"I was completely shocked," he says. "She didn't tell anybody about that."

Although her older brother, Benjamin Mandel, had no idea it was coming either, he says the mom of two always saw the world "a little differently."

Courtesy of Rachel Forman Sarah Mandel

"There was a family story where we were taking a road trip and she saw this kind of bleak winter landscape with a crow on a tree, because everything was kind of gray and dark, and she said, 'That's beautiful,' " he recalls.

Afterwards, she went home and drew a multicolored and happy picture.



Sarah studied art at Bard College, where she met Rodenhausen, now 42, after studying abroad in Italy.

The two married in 2010 and then welcomed daughters. Sarah's eventual career shift to psychotherapy led her to get her post-baccalaureate degree at Columbia University and a psychology doctorate at Rutgers University.

Related: Woman Who Announced Own Death Organized Campaign to Pay Off Others' Medical Debt  and It's Raised Over $600K

Courtesy of Rachel Forman From left: Derek Rodenhausen and Sarah Mandel

In 2017, while pregnant with Siena, Mandel, then 36, was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer after feeling a lump in her breast.

"The thought was, 'This is probably just a clogged milk duct, so we'll watch it,' " her brother explains. But it didn't get better.

Right before her daughter's delivery, doctors ended up doing an ultrasound and a biopsy, and it turned out that she had cancer.

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.



After chemotherapy and radiation therapy, Sarah went on the drug Herceptin, which kept her cancer "at bay," according to her brother.

"She went back to having no evidence of disease, which was miraculous," her husband adds. "Then we had a couple good years where she was in pretty good health again."

Courtesy of Rachel Forman Sarah Mandel

Related: TikTok Star Maddy Baloy's Fiance Held Her Hand as She Took Last Breath After Year with Terminal Cancer (Exclusive)

But by 2021, Sarah began to have headaches.

She went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, where MRI imaging showed the cancer was spreading into her brain.

"Then it was just a matter of trying to manage that, which involved multiple different types of medical therapy, radiation therapy again, and it kind of kept things quiet for a bit, but it did ultimately progress," Benjamin says.

Courtesy of Rachel Forman From left: Sarah Mandel and Benjamin Mandel

Related: Father Diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer Says Final Goodbye to Loved Ones: Its Gonna Be OK

Sarah, who closed her practice in 2021 due to her illness, went on to publish Little Earthquakes: A Memoir in April 2023.

"As she started to write it, she started to weave in memories and parts of her own life, and it became a memoir ... but also has a self-help component of helping people know how to navigate their own traumas," her husband says.

While Sarah wasn't a "social media person," Rodenhausen says she began to use her accounts to document her life and treatment because "she still felt like she had things to give."

At the end of her life, according to her goodbye video, "she was thankfully very calm and comfortable in her final restful days. As throughout her life, she spent her final night surrounded by love. She was cuddled up with her girls, Siena and Sophie, just hours before she died."



Courtesy of Rachel Forman Sarah Mandel

More than 1 million people have viewed her message on TikTok since it was posted on June 1. And more than 3,000 users have commented, with many sending their condolences.

Her brother says she lived her life with transparency in "both the good and bad" and "let herself feel," which is a lasting message "for all of us to really embrace life."

For Rodenhausen, seeing the "beautiful" outpouring of support it's inspired for their daughters in particular has felt like a touching final gift from his wife.



He adds, "I just loved her incredibly over those 22 years, and we had a wonderful family."

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Read the original article on People.
I traveled with friends in my early 20s and again in my 40s. I love traveling with girlfriends at different life stages.

I traveled with friends in my early 20s and again in my 40s. I love traveling with girlfriends at different life stages.

My friends and I traveled together through Southeast Asia in our 20s.

We just took another trip together, this time to Bhutan, nearly two decades later.

Though much has changed, our friendships are still strong.

I walked around Singapore Changi Airport feeling like a kid at summer camp for the first time. It was my first trip away from my family in a decade.

"Will I be OK?" I wondered. "What if I feel homesick and want to go home to my children and husband?"

I sat down and checked my backpack for the 10th time to make sure my passport and wallet were still inside. Then, I took a deep breath and wondered why I felt so anxious.

An earlier version of me used to travel alone all the time when I was in my 20s, filled with a naive optimism that everything would work out. Yet there I was, at 39, feeling completely out of my depth.

I connected to WiFi, and my phone lit up with a message. I felt a rush of relief as I remembered I wasn't alone on the other side of the world. Three of my college friends were heading to Bhutan with me.

They had just touched down from Brisbane and wanted to know where to meet up. "See you at the gate," I wrote, and started making my way through the terminal.

Suddenly, I heard my college bestie call out my name. "Millllllls," she yelled. It was like a scene from a bad romcom, as she came sprinting along the travelator and tackled me. We laughed and hugged, then made our way to the other women.

Melissa Noble and her friends traveled together throughout Cambodia and Vietnam when they were in their 20s. Courtesy Melissa Noble

Three of us are moms who ditched our husbands at home with the kids. The fourth friend decided to join us literally a couple of weeks before the trip, much to our delight.

We've all had vastly different life experiences, but we share an enduring bond  the kind that's formed during those early foundational years and lasts the ages. We met at college and traveled through Cambodia and Vietnam together in our early 20s.

Over the next eight nights, we had the time of our lives in Bhutan. It had been almost 20 years since the four of us had traveled together, but somehow, we picked up right where we left off. Another friend also joined along the way, and she fit in perfectly with the group.

During the holiday, I had so many revelations. The main one was how much I love traveling with girlfriends at different life stages.

We laughed more than I thought possible

There were times when we laughed so much that we cried, starting with our layover in Kathmandu on the way to Bhutan. I had woken up to go to the toilet, and when I reappeared in our twin room, my friend thought I was an intruder. She let out a blood-curdling scream that shook the walls. "It's me, Carmen," I said, then we both collapsed in a fit of hysterics, laughing until our stomachs ached.

Another time, we talked about something serious in a restaurant when the only other patron let out an almighty belch. We all looked at each other, then keeled over with laughter.

But the funniest moment of all was when our somewhat conservative Bhutanese guide took us to a hot spring in Gasa and appeared in his very tight undies. Up until that point, he had been wearing his traditional robe, known as a gho.

We were all sitting in the hot springs nearby as he took a 10-minute shower, meticulously scrubbing every inch of his hair and body. My friend piped up something like, "Queue 'Mysterious Girl' by Peter Andre," and we all lost it. It was so immature, but all of us were enjoying ourselves.

Melissa Noble, right, and her friends recently went to Bhutan. Courtesy Melissa Noble

We had the best conversations

Another thing I loved was our deep and varied conversations. Nothing had been off limits during our trip together around Southeast Asia, and the same was true during this trip.

We talked about old relationships and current ones; parenting and puberty; religion and life after death. We discussed the merits of early sex education and the importance of teaching our sons about consent.

Sometimes, we chatted about lighter topics like eyelash curlers and brands of face cream, but I enjoyed those conversations, too. Often, we told stories about our earlier trip together, and through shared experiences, we briefly re-lived our youth.

We embraced the comfortable silences

Part of what I found incredible was how easy and familiar it felt to travel with these friends despite such a long gap between holidays.

There were times when we would embrace the comfortable silences while hiking in the mountains, enjoying the silent companionship rather than filling the void with constant chatter.

The silences never felt awkward, but instead offered opportunities for thoughtfulness and reflection, leading to a deeper sense of connection between us.

Melissa Noble and her friends connected while traveling. Courtesy Melissa Noble

We rallied together and enjoyed the sisterhood

There's nothing quite like the bond of female friendship, and I really felt the solidarity of sisterhood during our trip. When women come together, they empower one another to be stronger and offer a tremendous well of emotional support.

When one of my friends began her cycle earlier than anticipated on a remote hike, we all rallied together and pooled our sanitary pads to get her through.

When I had a moment of height-induced panic on a hike, my friends reassured me I would be OK and encouraged me to keep going.

When another friend ended up in tears because her daughter had received some bad news, we hugged her and tried to support her through it.

There were so many beautiful moments of connection like these that I will hold in my heart in years to come.

So, what's next for our traveling girl squad? We all lead very busy lives, and most of us live in different areas of Australia and the world (our fifth friend is based in Hong Kong). It's hard to know when exactly we might have the opportunity to connect again for another overseas adventure.

However, one thing's for sure. The memories of our trip will sustain us until we meet again  and there will be a next time, even if it's another decade in the making.

Read the original article on Business Insider
One of the oldest remaining stone circle in England is at Castlerigg, Cumbria - Alamy

There are stone circles all over the world, from different eras and serving different purposes. Many of Europe's appear to be early astronomical observatories, their stones arranged to align with the sun during the solstices and/or equinoxes. In 2024, the summer solstice will occur on June 20, to mark midsummer; the longest day and shortest night of the year.

Stone circles in Britain and Ireland date from 3300 to 900 BC, evolving out of earlier ritual and funerary traditions  thus linking death and devotion to cosmic cycles. Aubrey Burls authoritative gazetteer, The Stone Circles of Britain, Ireland and Brittany (2000), lists 1,061 stone circles in the UK and a further 187 in Ireland, six in the Channel Isles and 49 in Brittany. An impressive 508 are found in Scotland. Its widely assumed that for every stone circle that survives, two have been lost.

Even allowing that some are not complete  or even very circular  thats a lot of options when it comes to a spot of sun-worshipping beyond the crowds of Stonehenge. Here are nine alternatives to visit.

Twelve Apostles, near Ilkley, Yorkshire

Dont go up here baht at  because Burley Moor can rival neighbouring Ilkley for its gusting winds. This splendid site, at over 1,200 feet above sea level, has a circle of millstone grit stones possibly used for lunar observations; local historians say the site once comprised 20 stones and was known as the Druids Chair or Druidical Dial Circle.

Place to stay nearby: The Crescent Inn has doubles from 123. Plan a trip to Yorkshire with our guide.

Rollright Stones, Cotswolds

On the Oxfordshire/Warwickshire border, this fine site comprises three separate elements in weathered limestone: The Kings Men ceremonial stone circle dating from around 2,500BC, the curiously-shaped King Stone, and the very ancient Whispering Knights dolmen (burial chamber). The private site is made accessible on a permissive basis, and visitors are asked to contribute 2 for each adult, 1 for children.

Rollright Stones is a private site on the Oxfordshire/Warwickshire border - Copyright - Stephen Dorey/Stephen Dorey

Place to stay nearby: The Bull has doubles from 180. Plan a trip to the Cotswolds with our guide.

Ballynoe Stone Circle, near Downpatrick, County Down

More than 50 closely-spaced tall stones adorn this Northern Ireland beauty. During the Bronze Age, a burial mound was constructed within the main stone circle. Burl suggests that Ballynoe may have had trading or ritual connections with Swinside Stone Circle, across the Irish Sea in Cumbria.

Place to stay nearby: The Portaferry Hotel has doubles from 90.

Machrie Moor Standing Stones, Arran

Six stone circles stand proud at this popular site on the beautiful island of Arran, ideal for combining with an easy walk  with the pyramidal peak of Goat Fell in the distance. Fingal's Cauldron Seat is named after the legendary warrior-giant Fingal.

Place to stay nearby: The Douglas Hotel has doubles from 219.

The Machrie Moor Standing Stones are easy to combine with a walk nearby - Joe Dunckley / Photocatalyst.uk/Joe Dunckley / 500px

Druids Circle, Penmaenmawr, North Wales

An hours steep climb out of the coastal town of Penmaenmawr leads to thirty stones, eleven of which are still standing. The circle lies close to a pre-historic trackway. Excavations in 1957 found the cremated remains of a child and a food vessel. The so-called Stone of Sacrifice has a ledge at the top  placing a child there is said to bring good luck.

Place to stay nearby: The Kinmel Arms has doubles from 94.

Trippet Stones, Bodmin Moor, Cornwall

A moorland backdrop adds drama to any standing stones  and Bodmin Moor is magical under any light. Cattle roam freely around this 110-foot diameter circle and from a distance seem to be standing in for the fallen granite stones; they make use of the standing ones for a good scratch. Trippet is a folkloric reference to dancing, an activity associated with the names of many stone circles.

Place to stay nearby: The Bodmin Jail Hotel has doubles from 269. Plan a trip to Cornwall with our guide.

Nine Ladies, Stanton Moor, Derbyshire

English Heritage manage this early Bronze Age circle in the Peak District, said to depict nine ladies turned to stone as punishment for dancing on a Sunday. The site is part of a complex of ancient sandstone circles, standing stones and barrows (burial mounds) on Stanton Moor.

Place to stay nearby: Buxton Crescent Health Spa Hotel has doubles from 249. Plan a trip to the Peak District with our guide.

An early Bronze Age circle in the Peak District, Nine Ladies - Copyrighted to Dave Porter Photography /Dave Porter Peterborough Uk.

Castlerigg Stone Circle, near Keswick, Cumbria

Perhaps the oldest remaining stone circle in England is at Castlerigg, with 38 large stones standing up to 10 feet high. Its thought it was originally an important site for prehistoric astronomers or early pagan rituals, as the stones are laid out in a solar alignment. For setting alone, this site is special, as it sits on a plateau ringed by soaring fells, including Skiddaw, Blencathra and High Seat.

Place to stay nearby: Inn on the Square has doubles from 210. Plan a trip to the Lake District with our guide.

Avebury Henge, Wiltshire

Avebury Henge, near Stonehenge, is just as impressive and offers a less crowded experience for visitors. Built between 2850 BC and 2200 BC, the surviving complex includes a circular bank and ditch, encircling an area that includes part of the village of Avebury. Inside the henge is the largest stone circle in Britain  originally containing 100 stones  with two smaller stone circles inside it.

Place to stay nearby: The Red Lion Freehouse has doubles from 160.

Avebury Henge is the quiet neighbour to Stonehenge - Credit: eye35 / Alamy Stock Photo/eye35 / Alamy Stock Photo

This article was first published in June 2020, and has been revised and updated.

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Vogue Magazine is raving about Providence. Here's what they loved about it.

Providence is officially in vogue this summer.

No, literally  the ever-popular seaside city has been written up in Vogue Magazine.

In a June 15 article, the iconic fashion and culture magazine dubbed the city the "charming, east coast creative capital to visit now."

So what compelled them to recommend this so emphatically and with that sense of urgency - not that we're disagreeing, of course. There's plenty of reasons to board the next train or plane to the capital of the Ocean State. But what caught Vogue's attention?

Glad you asked, unnamed reader. If you want to save a little time, here's the rundown of what Vogue loved about Providence and why it's at the top of their travel list.

Fair warning, if you're a native, it's likely made up of things you may already know.

Conducive to creativity

The Grand Gallery at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum in Providence. Admission is free on Sundays.

Writer (and Providence resident) Christine Chitnis wrote that Providence is "an intensely creative town that welcomes dreamers, creatives, young families, students, and diverse communities from around the world."

Providence is home to Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, as well as a robust number of museums, art galleries and performance spaces.

Some of the locations pointed out included World's Fair Gallery, Steel Yard and Trinity Repertory Company, many of which are located in the former manufacturing hubs of the Olneyville and Valley neighborhoods.

The creative spirit extends to the culinary arts as well. Chitnis commented that Providence's food scene provides fertile ground for pop-ups establishments where chefs are free to explore new ideas in a less costly form. Many of these pop-ups go on to become brick-and-mortar locations.

Culture, history and food

"For a small city in the countrys tiniest state, Providence punches in far above its weight when it comes to the restaurant scene," wrote Chitnis. She specified critically acclaimed chefs from restaurants Gift Horse, Dolores and Jahunger, each of whom specialize in cuisine from a different culture around the world - and there are many more. "You can travel the world through the dining scene," she said.

You won't have to empty your wallet to fill your stomach to eat well though. The city offers a variety of options from upscale to seafood shacks, such as Dune Brothers.

A place to crash

So you've eaten yourself into a food coma - now where do you go to sleep it off?

"From elegant historic properties in the heart of downtown to a wool dyeing factory turned artful boutique hotel, here are a handful of stylish lodging options," said Chitnis.

These choices go from classic old-school to a sleek, modern aesthetic - all depends on your tastes. More than a few of these buildings started life as something else. The Dye House had a couple different iterations  beginning as a furniture making establishment, then a ceramics studio and finally a boutique hotel. The Beatrice was originally the Exchange Bank Building, but now boasts 47 rooms and its own Italian rooftop restaurant.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Providence is the must-visit city right now, according to Vogue
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, June 19. The volume of Uzbekistan's trade turnover with the UAE amounted to $626 million in 2023, Trend reports.

According to the Statistics Agency of Uzbekistan, this figure increased by 20.7 percent compared to the same period in 2022 ($518.6 million).

In the meantime, the trade between Uzbekistan and the UAE hit a whopping sum of $243 million in 2021.

Uzbekistan's total trade turnover with the UAE reached $1.3 billion from January 2021 through December 2023.

Total exports from Uzbekistan to the UAE amounted to $440.5 million, while imports to Uzbekistan reached $946.9 million from January 2021 through December 2023.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan's trade turnover with the UAE amounted to $182 million from January through April 2024. This figure is 7.2 percent higher compared to the same period last year ($169.7 million from January through April 2023).

Exports from Uzbekistan to the UAE totaled $62.8 million from January through April 2024, while Uzbekistan's imports from the UAE reached $119.2 million.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Where to celebrate Fourth of July on the South Shore with fireworks, parades and music

From parades to concerts and fireworks, there will be lots of family-friendly activities to mark Independence Day on the South Shore and beyond this year.

The holiday marks the anniversary of the Second Continental Congress adopting the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

Some Americans began celebrating the very same year, but the practice didnt become widespread until the aftermath of the War of 1812.

Boston July 4th Spectacular

The Boston Pops July 4th Spectacular will take place at the Hatch Memorial Shell on the Esplanade starting at 8 p.m. July 4. Conductor Keith Lockhart will lead a program featuring the Boston Pops orchestra with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and R&B/soul singer Darlene Love, along with headliner Broadway star Kelli O'Hara and the Americana group The Mavericks. Special guests will include the Singing Sergeants from the United States Air Force Band. The concert ends at 10:30 p.m. with a fireworks display from 10:30 to 11 p.m. For more information, visit bso.org.

The MBTA will offer a $10 4th of July Holiday Ticket for unlimited travel across the whole network all day, including the commuter rail and subway. Trains will operate on a regular weekend schedule and will be held until 30 minutes after the Boston fireworks end.

Conductor Keith Lockhart will lead the Boston Pops.

Braintree Day to go big with parade, concert and fireworks

The Braintree High School field will be the site of the town's Fourth of July celebration, also known as Braintree Day, on Saturday, June 29. The event will include a parade, a concert and fireworks. The Stars & Stripes Parade will start at the Registry of Motor Vehicles parking lot on Plain Street at 11:45 a.m. and end at the Hollis School, 482 Washington St.

The festival and stage performances start at 4 p.m., leading up to a fireworks display at 9:30 that can be viewed from the high school, Sunset Lake and surrounding neighborhoods. Musician Ryan Faraday, a South Shore native, will perform and the Boat House Row Band will perform yacht rock. Food will include Brazilian and Mediterranean fare, fried dough, cupcakes and more. For more information, visit braintrees4th.org.

Cohasset fireworks and fun

The Cohasset Community Fireworks will take place at Sandy Beach on Tuesday, July 2. Fireworks will begin at 9:15 p.m. and there will be food trucks and a DJ starting at 6 p.m. People are encouraged to walk or take shuttle buses from the high school or Cohasset Common. For more information, visit cohassetrecma.myrec.com.

Duxbury to show its spirit with a parade

Duxbury's July 4th Parade will start at 2 p.m. with the theme "Duxbury Hometown Spirit." The parade will start at Halls Corner and travel down Washington Street to Duxbury Middle/High School. Prizes will be awarded for the best community floats. Parking at Halls Corner is limited due to the floats and bands setting up. Spectators can park at the schools, on Depot Street or on side streets. For more information, visit duxburycelebrates.com.

Hingham loves a parade

Uncle Sam Rounseville leads the parade down Main Street during the annual July 4th parade in Hingham on Monday, July 4, 2022.

After a road race starting at 7 a.m., the annual Hingham Fourth of July Independence Day Parade will start at Hingham High School at 10 a.m. The parade will march down Middle Street to Main Street, ending at the Station Street parking lot. The theme for this year is "We Love Our Parade." For more information, visit hingham-ma.gov/504/Event-Information.

Plymouth to show patriotism with parade, fireworks

A fireworks display over Plymouth Harbor will start at 9 p.m. on July 4th, capping a day of activities in town.

Plymouth's July 4th Parade will begin at 9 a.m. at Cordage Park and proceed onto Route 3A South/Court Street. After the parade there will be food trucks at Alden Park. The Plymouth Philharmonic Orchestra will perform at 7:30 p.m. at Pilgrim Memorial State Park. The fireworks will start at 9 p.m. at the park. For parking and more information, visit july4plymouth.com.

Quincy neighborhoods to celebrate with parades

Quincy firefighter Steve Sweet plays in a bagpipe and drum unit during the annual July 4th parade through the Squantum neighborhood of Quincy on Tuesday, July 4, 2023.

The Merrymount Association will host its annual Freedom Celebration at the Beach from 4:45 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 3. The kids bike parade will start at 4:45 p.m. at the Merrymount School. The event will also include food vendors and music.

The neighborhood's 4th of July Parade will step off at 12:30 p.m. from Merrymount Elementary School and finish at Merrymount Beach by 1:30 p.m. The theme for the floats this year is "Back to the 20s" in honor of the organization's 100th anniversary. For more information, visit merrymountquincy.com/events.html.

The Squantum Fourth of July parade will kick off at 10 a.m. At 9 a.m., people will gather at the cannon at the Nickerson American Legion Post to raise the flag, and the national anthem will be played to kick off the parade.

Randolph to celebrate a day early with parade and fireworks

The Night Before the Fourth Parade is scheduled for 7 p.m. July 3 in Randolph. The parade will start at the Higashi School and travel along North Main Street into Crawford Square. After the parade, fireworks will start at about 9 p.m. at the Randolph High School field. Food trucks will be next to the Turner Free Library as well as in the Americas Food Basket parking lot, with several smaller vendors along the parade route. For more information, visit randolph-ma.gov.

Weymouth to host July 3 beach party and fireworks

The town's 3rd of July party and fireworks display are scheduled for 5 to 10:30 p.m. at George Lane/Wessagusset Beach. The event will include musical performances and food trucks. Live music will be provided by The New Band with special guest Todd Angilly. Fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m. Buses will be available starting at 5 p.m. at the McCulloch Building/Whipple Center at 182 Green St., North Weymouth. There will be return trips after the fireworks display. For more information, visit the weymouth.ma.us/home/community-events.

Fireworks fill the windy sky over the Weymouth Fore River, Thursday, July 3, 2014, during the Independence Day Celebration at Lane Beach.

This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Fireworks: Where to see them near Quincy for 4th of July celebrations
Lynn Addis didnt intend to become a baker or a teacher, but both roles are filling her days with joy, while also keeping her customers and students well fed.

It was an accidental  or providential  path to baking hundreds of loaves of sourdough bread each week and teaching others how to do it too.

Entrepreneur Lynn Addis of Daily Bread Sourdough

I am gluten intolerant, Addis says. I was playing with sourdough just trying to learn it for myself. I had gone eight years with no bread, and then I found out that the fermentation process of sourdough makes it more digestible for some people, so I thought I would try it for myself. And obviously, it worked.

A couple of years ago while shopping at Farmacy, a natural market in Easley, Addis was discussing sourdough. An overheard conversation soon resulted in her sourdough starter being sold at the store. Customers were buying the starter, which grows from naturally occurring yeast rather than the addition of bakers yeast, and then had no idea how to transform it into freshly baked bread. Its no surprise that Addis was asked to teach them the process. (After passage of a 2022 state law regulating on homemade food, selling starter is no longer allowed in South Carolina, but Addis does give it away to her students.)

I said OK, reluctantly at first because I've never done anything like that, she says.

That first class  and the bread she brought as a sample  was so popular, Addis was soon selling finished loaves. Daily Bread Sourdough artisan and sandwich loaves can now be found at about two dozen locations across the Upstate. She has a team to help, but she eats (literally) and sleeps (figuratively) sourdough.

I am perpetually hiring because I'm growing so fast, and it's hard to keep up, she says.

More Women in Business: Lyndsey Hall & Kristen Motte of The Bunny Hive

The bread is vegan and made from organic ingredients. It is no exaggeration to say that it has changed Addis life, even aside from the business. After years without it, she savors the simplicity of toast with peanut butter.

Addis also teaches demonstration and hands-on classes. Her faith guides her business and gives her the strength to get out of her comfort zone.

I do bathe everything in prayer  the good and the bad. And I do give all the glory to God for all of it, for how it grew and how it is still growing, she says.

Addis continues to be amazed by it all, including the patience she learns from baking.

Youve got to be patient and work through the process, she says. I tell people I'm at the mercy of the rise. I don't get to say when things move forward, the dough does, but I just think its astounding that it all comes from flour and water.

Learn more at dailybreadsourdough.com.

This article originally appeared on Upstate Parent: Women in Business: Lynn Addis of Daily Bread Sourdough
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  About 1,400 structures were lost and one person died after the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire grew rapidly in the Ruidoso, New Mexico area on Tuesday, June 18, according to the New Mexico Forestry Division.

Flash Flood Warning issued for South Central Lincoln County as fires continue

The Forestry Division says the South Fork Fire is currently estimated at 16,335 acres and is zero percent contained. The Salt Fire is estimated at 7,071 acres with 0 percent containment.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency on Tuesday for Lincoln County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation due to the wildfires that have impacted the area, her office announced. Grisham also deployed National Guard troops to the area.

NM governor declares state of emergency for area impacted by fire

The Governors Office also reported that one person had died in the fire, but did not offer any further details.

The family confirmed to KTSM that the fatality from Ruidosos South Fork fire is Pat Pearson, a Ruidoso resident. Pearson was a talented guitarist who played in a band at Quarters, a well-known bar and grill along Sudderth in the heart of Ruidoso. Officials have yet to confirm the identity of the individual killed in the Ruidoso fire.

We are at a loss for words, and we are so heartbroken that this happened, Christiana Alvarez told KTSM.

The New Mexico State Police (NMSP) provided more information about Pearsons death and a second deadly victim.

NMSP said that on Tuesday, June 18 Pearson had been found near the Swiss Chalet Motel located at 1451 N. Mechem Road. He had sustained numerous burns from the fire and was found on the side of the road.

At approximately 11:57 a.m., June 18, another dead person was located in the driver seat of a burned vehicle on Ranier Road during the South Fork Fire in Ruidoso, Lincoln County, New Mexico, according to NMSP.

NMSP said the dead person is unidentified at this time, due to the condition being skeletal remains. No legible identification documents were located in the burned vehicle.

The Forestry Division says the Southwest Area Team 5 assumed command of both fires at 6 a.m. on Wednesday, June 19.

There are currently over 200 personnel assisting with the fires. The Forestry Division says fire crews, heavy equipment, and additional resources will continue building firelines on both the South Fork and Salt fires while air resources will assist from the sky with ongoing water and retardant drops.

An estimated 8,000 people have been evacuated from the area and the Village of Ruidoso continues to be under mandatory evacuation.

List: Ruidoso fires cancel/reschedule events around the area

Ruidoso Downs was also ordered to evacuate on Tuesday evening.

Numerous additional evacuation orders have been issued including Fantasy Lane, Summit area, Botella Road, Snow Springs, Fence Canyon, Whitetail, and Chihuahua Well, according to the Forestry Division.

Please stay out of the fire area to allow firefighters safe access into the area and allow them to work safely. There are hazards in the area including fire-weakened trees, downed power lines, and potential for exposed gas lines, the Forestry Division said.

Red Cross has reported 270 individuals checked in to shelters in Roswell, and 120 in Capitan, according to the NM Forestry Division.

Residents and visitors who want to voluntarily evacuate can seek shelter at Capitan High School.

The Ruidoso Convention Center is not taking any more evacuations and those who are there will shelter in place should the status at the Convention Center change, according to the Village of Ruidosos Facebook page.

For those who cannot go to Capitan because of the Highway 70 closures, a shelter has been set up at 52 University Blvd. in Roswell.

If you can get there safely, an evacuation center at the Inn of the Mountain Gods Convention Center is available for anyone, tribal or non-tribal.

Carrizozo High School located at 800 D Ave., in Carrizozo, is also open for evacuees. Motorists can use Hwy 380 through Hondo to access the school.

Lea County Fairgrounds is also available to anyone who is evacuating and has stables as well as RV hookups. Contact Fairgrounds Director Wyatt Duncan at (575) 333-0252 for any questions.

For Mescalero Apache residents, an evacuation center is still available at the Mescalero Community Center Gymnasium.

The New Mexico Forestry Division has also provided a list of shelters in Roswell, New Mexico. Those are the following:

ENMU-R Gymnasium 52 B University Blvd.

Church on the Move 901 W. Brasher

NMMI Godfrey Center 101 W. College

NM Dream Center 2700 W. Second St.

ENM Fairgrounds RVs and Large Animals 2500 SE Main

Roswell Convention Center 900 N. Main

Roswell Aquatic Center 1500 W. College



Those with pets can take them to the Humane Society of Lincoln County located at 25962 U.S. Highway 70 in Ruidoso.

Livestock can be held at the Mescalero Rodeo Grounds. You can call (575) 464-9878 if you need help with hauling your livestock.

People with livestock and RVs can also head to the Eastern New Mexico state fairgrounds at 2500 SE Main St. in Roswell.

The Forestry Division says US 70 is closed from mile marker 249 (intersection NM 244), 4 miles east of Mescalero, to mile marker 258, 2 miles east of Carrizo.

The only available evacuation route is on Sudderth Drive to Highway 70, leading out to Roswell.

Those with questions can call the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 202-794-5044. Initially, the EOC was relocated to the Lincoln County Courthouse in Carrizozo on Monday evening, June 17. However, the EOC was moved back to Fire Station 1 on Tuesday.

The Otero County Electric Cooperative has been requested to shut power off in the area around Penn Scott Drive and Cow Camp due to wildfires in the area. It is unknown when service will be restored. Interactive outage maps can be accessed at www.ocec-inc.com.

The City of Alamogordo says its also sending a team of firefighters to Ruidoso. Alamogordo Police have also mobilized to potentially assist with any traffic control needs.

Also, staff at the Alamogordo Civic Center has been placed on standby and is ready to open the facility as needed.

To donate to those who have been affected by the fire, click on our story below.

Dona Ana County, NMSU, regional agencies offer assistance to residents affected by fires

The Forestry Division says the cause of the fires is currently under investigation.

Both fires are burning on Mescalero tribal land, US Forest Service land, and the area surrounding Ruidoso. The Forestry Division says the South Fork Fire was discovered at 9 a.m., Monday, June 17.

This story will be updated when we receive more information.

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.
1 hurt in north Charlotte shooting, MEDIC says

One person has been seriously hurt following a shooting in north Charlotte early Wednesday morning, according to MEDIC.

The incident occurred just after 12 a.m. on West Sugar Creek Road.

MEDIC said the victim was taken to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries.

ALSO READ: Father still seeking justice four years after deadly Beatties Ford shooting

Channel 9 has reached out for more details about this shooting.

This is a developing story; check wsoctv.com for updates.

VIDEO: Father still seeking justice four years after deadly Beatties Ford shooting
















UPDATE: Memphis Police say the City Watch has been canceled. Carlito Taliaferro was found safe.

**

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Memphis Police found a 14-year-old boy who went missing after a shooting in Frayser.

Carlito Taliaferro was last seen at the Pershing Park Apartments in the 3700 block of Pershing Park Drive when a shooting occurred.

Police say Taliaferros brother was shot and taken to Regional One. Taliaferro ran from the scene and has not been found.

He is described as being 55 and weighing 130 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair and was last seen wearing a blue jacket, black pants and orange shoes.

I dont have time to cry: Mother of I-240 shooting victims gives update on their recovery

If you see Carlito Taliaferro, call the Memphis Police Department at 901-545-2677.

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 memorial for David Joel Luna, 22, is at the intersection of Kuebler Boulevard and Battle Creek Road SE. Luna died April 11, one of 14 traffic fatalities in Salem this year, surpassing the number for traffic deaths for all of 2023.

Lois Randall died May 22 crossing a busy stretch of Liberty Street in north Salem in her motorized chair, becoming the 14th traffic fatality in Salem in 2024.

The 70-year-old's death also marked the point the city surpassed the number of traffic fatalities for the entirety of 2023. With six more months to go, 2024 could end up being a record-breaking year for traffic deaths in Salem.

"Each one of these deaths is tragic," Salem Police Deputy Chief Treven Upkes said.

In the past, traffic fatalities have kept pace with the population growth or trended down until this year, Upkes said.

Police have not pinpointed a single cause in the uptick  the contributing factors in the 14 deadly crashes were across the board.

Deaths this year included a wrong-way DUI vehicle collision, a pedestrian hit in a crosswalk, a motorcyclist running into a concrete barrier near the Center Street bridge and a pedestrian struck while on a highway on-ramp.

Upkes noted more deaths occurred in south Salem, a factor he attributed to the growth in population and increased traffic in the area.

Salem is not the only city seeing a spike in traffic deaths.

Oregon Public Broadcasting reported a statewide 73% increase in traffic deaths per year from 2010 to 2022, including a notable increase during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts highlighted speed and high-profile vehicles such as trucks and SUVs among the contributing factors.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration officials said in a recent report that the fatality rate involving "vulnerable road users"  bicyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists  is increasing. They also pointed to distracted driving as a contributing factor to the increase in fatalities. In 2022, 3,308 people were killed in the United States in crashes involving distracted drivers.

Salem city councilor: 'These are all preventable deaths'

City Councilor Virginia Stapleton addressed Salem's fatality milestone during the June 10 council meeting.

"We are now six months into the year ... and we are set to double the numbers from last year," she said. "That, to me, is just unacceptable. These are all preventable deaths, and it's really devastating to have that."

Stapleton told the Statesman Journal that transportation safety has long been her passion project.

"I wish it brought out more passion from everybody," she said. "What I see a lot of times is just complacency or sad acceptance that a system we all utilize is so deadly."

Stapleton has made motions to support the "20 is Plenty" campaign to reduce speeds in residential streets, the Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic deaths among cyclists, pedestrians and drivers over the next 10 years, and pedestrian-led intervals at downtown crosswalks to reduce traffic deaths.

Hot zones of crashes and fatalities in the city, which tend to be near busy, high-speed roads such as Lancaster Drive, Commercial Street and Portland Road, demonstrate how design impacts safety, she said.

"We're starting to see clearly how our infrastructure is leading to the deaths of people on our roadways," Stapleton said.

Street art like this one at the intersection of Belmont Street NE and Cottage Street NE are intended to add colorful art to Salem neighborhoods and are tied to lower traffic speeds.

The Vision Zero idea pairs building an environment that reduces speeds and increases pedestrian and cyclist visibility and safety with enforcement to reduce deaths.

Last year, the federal government awarded Salem a $2.8-million grant to support its Vision Zero program.

Despite the number of deaths this year, Stapleton said she is seeing some improvements.

She said Public Works Director Brian Martin and City Manager Keith Stahley are trying to find ways to "elevate the most vulnerable road users."

"Both of them are on board with this and and see the lack in the previous decades where the infrastructure we've built has really set us up for this failure," Stapleton said.

She pointed to projects like intersection art in neighborhoods, flashing beacon pedestrian crossing and protected bike lines as promising moves to increase safety. Residents also can request radar reader boards in their neighborhood to reduce speeding and report traffic violations through a citizen traffic report form online.

"My ask of our community would be that we develop more empathy for others who are using other forms and not pit each other against each other," Stapleton said. "It's not cars versus bikes or bikes versus pedestrians."

Funding, staffing to prevent crashes limited due to funding

Upkes said preventing crashes through education, patrols and enforcement would be ideal.

"It's difficult to manage with the resources we've had," he said.

Salem's traffic team is understaffed and stretched thin, currently operating with four officers and a sergeant. The team spends days and sometimes months investigating serious crashes and assisting the department in responding to community violence.

The team is adding one more person through a transfer on July 1 and Upkes said he hopes to have the team fully staffed with six officers and a sergeant by January.

Until then, police are working with the resources they have to prevent these tragedies. Upkes said this can include using the Speed on Green cameras for speed enforcement and applying for grants to fund supplemental patrols, especially during the fall and winter months when darker days can lead to more crashes.

Stapleton said due to budget challenges, the city is in a holding pattern.

Legislative leaders have said the next session that begins in January will have a focus on transportation and "trying to address the budget gaps for cities and municipalities around the state, including ODOT, to get that revenue in so that we can make the investments that we need," said Stapleton, who won the Democrat primary in May to run for Oregon House District 21, which encompasses Keizer and North Salem.

The federal funds coming in from the Vision Zero and Safe Streets grants should help in the coming months. Stapleton said she wants people to view the city's transportation system more holistically and with an equity lens.

"Just because we've been doing it a certain way for 70 years, 80 years, doesn't mean that's the right path forward," she said. "We can imagine a different future for our city  one where nobody dies. I think that's a great thing to push for and work towards."

For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on X at @wmwoodworth

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Salem traffic deaths: City on path to break record in 2024
HANFORD, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  A 16-year-old was arrested in Hanford who was wanted in connection with an ongoing investigation regarding a robbery and brandishing of a firearm, according to the Hanford Police Department. The teen also had two no-bail warrants out of Kings County.

Police say on June 15, officers from the Hanford Police Department Street Crimes Unit, the Kings County Major Crimes Task Force, along with the Hanford Police Department K-9 unit, Patrol Unit, and the Kings County Sheriffs Office Air Unit and Patrol Unit successfully captured the 16-year-old.

Police say the investigation led officers to the 600 Blk of S. Phillips Avenue, where the juvenile was observed entering a white Toyota Prius. The vehicle was stopped in the 900 block of Hanford Armona Road for a traffic violation. Before the vehicle could come to a complete stop, police say the juvenile fled on foot toward nearby apartments, ignoring officers commands to stop.

During the pursuit, police say the juvenile climbed onto the rooftops and ran through a field toward Washington Street. A perimeter was established, and air support, along with K-9 units, were deployed to assist in the search. A witness reported seeing the juvenile discard a firearm during the chase.

Police say air support spotted the juvenile in a backyard near a shed on Washington Street. Officers, along with a K-9, approached the location and after several warnings, the K-9 apprehended the suspect. The juvenile was then taken into custody without further incident. Subsequently, officers recovered a loaded 9mm Ruger semi-automatic handgun in the area where the juvenile was seen discarding the firearm.

The juvenile was transported to Adventist Health Hanford for jail clearance and received medical treatment for superficial injuries sustained from the K-9 apprehension.

Anyone with additional information on the case is encouraged to contact the Street Crimes Unit of the Hanford Police Department at 559-585-4724.

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.
Authorities arrested 19 suspects during a major retail theft bust targeting stores across Southern California.

The arrests were the result of a multi-agency investigation that ran from May 31 and June 13, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department.

Authorities became aware of a rise in violent and costly thefts targeting retail stores across San Bernardino County, at times threatening the safety of shop workers and bystanders.

Many of the thefts involved organized theft crews that conspired to commit robberies, burglaries, shelve sweeps, and vandalisms, SBSD said.

During the major busts, 19 suspects were arrested  seven were felonies and 12 were misdemeanors.

Around $5,038 worth of stolen merchandise was discovered during the operation, officials said.

A variety of luxury beauty products were discovered during a large retail theft bust operation across San Bernardino County from May to June 2024. (San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department)

A variety of luxury beauty products were discovered during a large retail theft bust operation across San Bernardino County from May to June 2024. (San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department)

Photos of some stolen merchandise included a variety of luxury beauty products from brands including Yves Saint Laurent, Gucci, Dior, Giorgio Armani, Tarte, Olaplex, Sol de Janeiro, Huda Beauty and more.

The beauty products included in the theft ranged anywhere from $20 to $65 each.

These violent criminals terrorize the citizens of San Bernardino County by utilizing intimidation tactics and a mob mentality that creates an unsafe and uncomfortable shopping environment for our residents, deputies said.

Investigators involved with Operation Smash & Grab generally target popular shopping districts and malls throughout Chino Hills, Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Hesperia and Victorville to catch retail theft suspects in the act.

Investigators utilize conventional and non-conventional investigative methods to accomplish this task and lessen the blight created by these bad actors, deputies explained.

Agencies involved in the operation included SBSDs Gangs/Narcotics Division, Rancho Cucamonga Station, San Bernardino County Probation Department, Homeland Security Investigations, California Highway Patrol and the San Bernardino Police Department.

The arrested suspects identities were not released as the retail thefts remain under investigation. Anyone with information can call SBSD at 909-884-0156.

Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

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.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Eight people, including Christian Tein, leader of the "Coordination Cell of Field Actions," which is behind the uprising against electoral body reform, have been arrested in New Caledonia, Trend reports via French media.

This group raised the barricades throughout the capital, Noumea, in protest, throwing a wrench in transportation and food supplies.

Tein was among the pro-independence political figures who met with French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to New Caledonia in May.

The riots in New Caledonia kicked off after the French parliament pulled a fast one by passing a law that turned the election process for the local legislative assembly on its head.

According to the amendments, newcomers from France who have lived in New Caledonia for 10 years will have the right to vote.

This has caused dissatisfaction among many Kanaks, the indigenous people of New Caledonia, who fear that the political influence of their community will now diminish.

The arrest of Tein and seven other activists in New Caledonia highlights the escalating tensions in the region caused by the electoral body reforms initiated by the French government.

These events demonstrate a growing wave of discontent among the indigenous population, concerned about the loss of political influence.

The uprising and arrests reflect the failure of French neocolonial policies, which are provoking new conflicts and resistance among the local population.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
A $1m lawsuit over the death of a Texas man, who died earlier this month after being electrocuted in a resort hot tub in Mexico, has moved forward.

Last week, Lizzette Zambrano, 35, sued two Arizona-based companies, vacation rental provider Casago International and travel company High Desert Travel, as well as the Sonoran Sea Resort, arguing they were responsible for the violent death of her husband, Jorge Guillen, 43, at a resort in Puerto Penasco, Mexico.

Since then, the resort has received a temporary restraining order in a Texas court mandating that it preserve the tub as is for investigation.

Preserving this evidence is important to the prosecution of Ms. Zambranos case, and a crucial first step in this litigation, to hopefully preventing this type of tragedy from ever happening again, the womans attorney, Tej Paranjpe, told The Independent. Whether the fault lies with the manufacturer, contractors, the resort and its employees, or some combination, we will be relentless in determining exactly what happened and why.

On the evening of 11 June, Guillen was shocked with an electric discharge in the hot tub, according to the suit.

Bystanders and Zambrano attempted to retrieve him, but were deterred by current running through the water, the suit alleges.

It would be ten minutes before resort staff were able to pull Guillen out of the water, by which point he had died.

Zambrano, meanwhile, was medevaced to a hospital and in critical condition, after being shocked while trying to retrieve her husband.

There is no reason this should have happened, Paranjpe previously told KFOX. Hotels and resorts have a duty to ensure guest safety. At no point did resort staff think to engage an emergency shut-off, not to mention warn guests of a faulty, dangerous amenity."

The Independent has contacted the resort, High Desert Travel, and Casago for comment.
A pair of climate protesters was arrested Wednesday after allegedly spraying the Stonehenge monument in England with orange paint, according to local authorities.

The protesters, from the group Just Stop Oil, sprayed the monument with orange paint Wednesday, one day ahead of the Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the environmental activist group said in a statement on the social platform X.

The two individuals were demanding the incoming government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030, Just Stop Oil said.

Wiltshire Police told The Associated Press (AP) the two protesters were arrested near Salisbury, England, on suspicion of damaging one of the worlds most famous prehistoric monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Hill reached out to police and Just Stop Oil for further comment.

The manager of the ancient site, English Heritage, called the incident extremely upsetting and said curators are investigating the extent of the damage.

Just Stop Oil noted the paint used on the 4,500-year-old stone circle was made of orange cornflour that will dissolve in the rain.

The group said the move came in response to the Labour Partys recently released manifesto, which committed to not issuing further licenses for oil and gas exploration should it win the election on July 4. Just Stop Oil supports the decision, but said it is not enough.

Continuing to burn coal, oil and gas will result in the death of millions. We have to come together to defend humanity, or we risk everything, a spokesperson for Just Stop Oil said in a statement.

The two protesters involved are Niamh Lynch, a 21-year-old student from Oxford, and Rajan Naidu, 73, of Birmingham, England, according to the group.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak slammed Wednesdays protest, writing on X, Just Stop Oil are a disgrace.

Labour leader Keir Starmer, Sunaks main opponent in the upcoming election, called Just Stop Oil pathetic and said the damage done to Stonehenge is outrageous.

The Labour Party is currently leading in polling, with several pundits and politicians predicting the party will lead the next government, the AP reported.

Thousands are expected to visit Stonehenge on the lands of Salisbury Plain on Thursday to mark the summer solstice. The historic site was built starting 5,000 years ago, while the iconic stone circle was built in the late Neolithic period in about 2,500 B.C.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
2 arrested in Madera with loaded handguns after traffic stop, police say

MADERA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Two people were arrested in Madera on weapons-related charges after a traffic stop Wednesday morning, according to the Madera Police Department.





Police say they made a traffic stop at the intersection of G and 4th Street. During the stop, police say they discovered that the driver, 27-year-old Johnathan Garcia, and his passenger, 18-year-old Matthew Garcia were in illegal possession of loaded handguns.

Police say both were arrested on weapons-related charges and booked into the Madera County Jail.

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.
The belugas  a 15-year-old male named Plombir and a 14-year-old female named Miranda  arrived in Valencia on June 18

Oceanografic de Valencia One of the beluga whales transported from Ukraine to Spain

Two beluga whales  a 15-year-old male named Plombir and a 14-year-old female named Miranda  have been rescued from Ukraine and transported to Spain amid the war

The rescue mission required months of planning due to the animals' size and specific needs

"The high-risk, complex rescue operation presented numerous challenges and required multi-national collaboration," a press release obtained by PEOPLE stated

A rescue team transported two beluga whales from Ukraine to Spain amid the ongoing war.

On June 17 and 18, a multi-national team of marine mammal experts from Oceanografic de Valencia, Georgia Aquarium, and SeaWorld assisted Ukraine's NEMO Dolphinarium in rescuing the belugasa 15-year-old male named Plombir and a 14-year-old female named Mirandafrom the war-ravaged city of Kharkiv, per a news release obtained by PEOPLE.

Following a "grueling journey across the war zone," the animals arrived in Valencia, Spain, in "delicate health" on the evening of June 18.

"The high-risk, complex rescue operation presented numerous challenges and required multi-national collaboration," the release stated.

Oceanografic Valencia is the largest aquarium in Europe and the closest marine conservation center to Ukraine. Ahead of the rescue mission, bombs were dropped within a few hundred meters of the aquarium. Kharkiv is "facing increasing threat from artillery fire," per the release.

Related: Beluga Whales Move from Aquarium to Sanctuary, Returning to the Ocean After Years in Captivity

The rescue required months of planning due to the animals' size and specific needs. Seals, sea lions, and dolphins evacuated the NEMO Dolphinarium in earlier rescue missions launched since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

Oceanografic de Valencia One of the transported beluga whales with members of their rescue team

"Their evacuation included a dangerous 12-hour drive from Kharkiv to Odesa. From there, the Ukrainian caregivers met the international team from Oceanografic, Georgia Aquarium, and SeaWorld, who quickly conducted health checks and continued onward to the Moldova border where the European Anti-Fraud Office, part of the European Commission, served a crucial role in speeding up the border crossing," the release stated.

After the drive, a six-seater chartered plane met the rescue team in Chisinau. It flew them to Valencia, where the general director of the Natural and Animal Environment of Valencia, Raul Merida, met them at the airport.

"This courageous rescue constitutes a historic milestone worldwide in terms of animal protection. It is an honor that the Oceanografic has rescued these two belugas from the horror of the war in Ukraine," Carlos Mazon, president of the Valencia region Generalitat Valenciana, said.

Oceanografic de Valencia A map of the beluga whales' journey from Ukraine to Spain

"They have experienced a difficult situation in recent months, and the experts at Oceanografic will be working intensely to help them recover," Mazon added.

Related: Beluga Whale Trapped in River Seine Euthanized During Rescue Due to Health Difficulties

Dr. Daniel Garcia-Parraga, director of zoological operations at Oceanografic, shared, "The war has caused food, energy, and medicine shortages, reducing access to other basic necessities for animal care as well as technical supplies necessary for the logistics of such a sensitive rescue."

"The belugas have a suboptimal body condition to undertake this type of trip, but if they had continued in Kharkiv, their chances of survival would have been very slim," Garcia-Parraga continued.

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.

Dennis Christen, senior director of animal well-being and behavior at Georgia Aquarium, shared, "The complexities of this evacuation were immense, and we have been working for weeks to prepare for it. I'm humbled to have been trusted to provide the belugas care and protection during their long journey to their new home."

"My heart is with the Ukrainian caregivers and the people of Kharkiv who had to say goodbye to Miranda and Plombir. It's not an easy thing to do, but it was best for them. I'm proud to have played a role in helping them," Christen added.

Oceanografic de Valencia A beluga whale with members of the multi-national rescue team

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The belugas are now being "provided with a specialized team of medical, nutritional and behavioral experts at Oceanografic to assist in recovery from the traumas they have endured," the release confirmed, adding that two Ukrainian caregivers would be staying with them for the first couple of weeks to help with the transition.

"The belugas are being cared for in separate areas that are not accessible or viewable by the public while they undergo recovery and acclimation," Garcia-Parraga said.

"We will be providing updates on their health and well-being as things evolve. We are extremely grateful to everyone who assisted in this rescue," he added.

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Two teen girls killed in jet ski crash on Lake Marie in Antioch

ANTIOCH TOWNSHIP, Ill.  Two teenage girls were killed in a jet ski crash on Lake Marie in Antioch.

The Lake County Sheriffs Marine Unit and Patrol Division reponded to the crash involving a jet ski and boat around 5:15 p.m. Tuesday.

According to the Lake County Sheriffs Office, a 16-year-old girl, of Lake Forest, California, and a 13-year-old girl, of Long Grove, were on the jet ski and both were killed in the crash.

The sheriffs office reports a preliminary investigation shows the 16-year-old was operating the Yamaha jet ski and the 13-year-old was the passenger. The two were traveling in a northerly direction near the channel to Grass Lake, just north of the Elime Road Peninsula.

Warning signs, symptoms and tips: How to stay safe in the heat

At the same time a Sea Ray Cabin Cruiser, being operated by a 55-year-old man of Antioch, was traveling westbound in the same area.

According to witnesses, the jet ski was traveling at a high rate of speed directly toward the boat. The man driving the boat was unable to avoid a collision, and the two watercrafts crashed.

The sheriffs office reports that both teens, who were wearing life vests, were knocked unconscious and thrown into the water.

According to the sheriffs office, there were a total of four occupants on the boat and they immediately pulled the girls from the water, called 911, and rendered aid.

One of the girls was transported to the shore by the man driving the boat, and the other girl was transported by the operator of another passing boat.

The girls were transported to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville and both were pronounced deceased after arriving. Nobody else was injured as a result of the crash.

7-year-old boy dies after shooting on Near West Side

An autopsy has been scheduled for Thursday morning.

The crash remains under investigation by the Lake County Sheriffs Office Marine Unit and Illinois Conservation Police

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.
UPDATED STORY: Murder suspect accused of killing parents said she would do it again

WASHINGTON CITY, Utah (ABC4)  Two people were found shot to death in their home by Washington City Police Tuesday night, and an hourslong manhunt for the suspect ended peacefully Wednesday morning in St. George.

Washington Police responded to a shots-fired call shortly after 7 p.m. Tuesday night, June 18, and found an adult man and adult woman shot to death in a residence in the 1000 block of E. Chinook Dr. The couple has not been publicly identified, and it is unclear what their relationship to the suspect was. Life-saving attempts were made on the pair at the crime scene, but they were unsuccessful.

75-year-old Cache County woman facing 18 child sex abuse charges over last 30 years

Washington Police Lt. Kory Klotz said no suspect was found at the scene, but their investigation led them to Collin Troy Baliey, a transgender male transitioning to female and going by the name Mia Bailey. Bailey was seen leaving the area in a yellow 2014 Kia Soul and was labeled armed and dangerous by investigators.

From there, Klotz said a multi-agency manhunt for Bailey began. A shelter-in-place was issued for St. George residents, and the city was cordoned off in the early morning hours. Bailey wasnt located until shortly before 8 a.m. this morning. Klotz said negotiators began speaking with her in an attempt to get her to surrender and get the best outcome.

Klotz said no residents were threatened or in harms way, though there was the threat of self-harm to Bailey. Officers were able to get Bailey to surrender her gun, and her car was seized and is being processed for evidence.

What still remains unknown are any motives Bailey may have allegedly had. Police are still speaking to family members of the victims and are not releasing information on them at this time.

All road closures and shelter-in-place orders have been lifted.

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.
The teen girls, ages 13 and 16, were on a jet ski at high speed when it crashed into a Sea Ray boat

Getty Stock image of a jet ski

Two teens were killed after their jet ski crashed into a boat at an Illinois lake.

On Tuesday, June 18, the teen girls, ages 13 and 16, were riding on a jet ski when it crashed into a Sea Ray boat with four people onboard on Lake Marie near Antioch, Ill., according to a social media post from the Lake County Sheriffs Office. Both the Lake County Sheriffs Office Marine Unit and Patrol Division and Antioch Fire Protection District responded to the scene around 5:15 p.m. local time.

They were traveling in a northerly direction near the channel to Grass Lake, just north of the Elime Road Peninsula. At the same time a Sea Ray Cabin Cruiser, being operated by a 55-year-old man of Antioch was traveling westbound in the same area, approaching the Gass Lake Channel, the post read.

Related: Connecticut Teen with 'Beautiful Soul' Killed in Jet Ski Collision: He Was 'So Full of Life'

Lake County Sheriffs Office Deputy Chief Christopher Covelli confirmed that the 16-year-old was from Lake Forest, Calif., and the 13-year-old from Long Grove  the preliminary investigation revealed the 16-year-old was operating the jet ski and the 13-year-old was the passenger.

Representatives from the Lake County Sheriffs Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment.

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.

Per the post, the Lake County Sheriffs Office said that both girls were wearing life jackets before they were knocked unconscious and thrown into the water upon impact.

Related: Mich. Teen Killed in Lake Crash After Her Jet Ski Is Accidentally Struck by Her Boyfriend's

After aid was administered and 911 was called, the teens were both transported to Advocate Condell Medical Center where they were both pronounced dead shortly after arrival, the sheriffs office said.

The crash currently remains under investigation by the Lake County Sheriff's Office Marine Unit and Illinois Conservation Police. The Lake County Coroners Office scheduled an autopsy for June 20, the per the sheriffs office.

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He doesnt call himself a hero, but he is, the man's cousin said

WBTW Surfside Beach Road

A 20-year-old South Carolina man reportedly saved a toddler from wandering down a road early on Sunday, June 16, after coming across the child while driving home from work.



According to local TV station WBTW, Camryn Davis called 911 around 1 a.m. local time after he stopped to check on the toddler.

At first, I didnt know what it was, Davis told the outlet. As I got closer, I realized it was a child.

Davis said he was driving home from work with a friend when he recognized the young boy alone in the street  reportedly heading toward oncoming traffic. Davis happened upon the child, "slammed" on his brakes and threw on his hazard lights, he said.

Then I rolled my window down [and said], Hey, wheres your parents?  Davis told local outlet WMBF.

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The 20-year-old said he told Horry County Police that he tried to wave down several cars for help while he called 911.

WMBF reports that when officers arrived at the scene, they found the toddler wearing only a diaper. The child was returned safely to his parents a few blocks away from where Davis found him.



The mother reportedly told police her young son wandered off outside the home after she fell asleep next to him, according to WBTW and WMBF.

I like to think, you know, hopefully, I made a difference in someone elses day, Davis told the WBTW.

Davis family members said his actions were heroic.

He doesnt call himself a hero, but he is, his cousin Connor Lieberz told WMBF.

Police did not immediately respond to a request for comment from PEOPLE.

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In this May 15, 2007, file photo, the Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, president emeritus of the University of Notre Dame, reflects on a photo showing him joining hands with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. at Soldier Field in Chicago at the Walk for Freedom Civil Rights March on June 21, 1964.

Editor's note: This story originally appeared in the South Bend Tribune on Jan. 25, 2000.

SOUTH BEND  Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh on Monday told a story about a place where black people could not register to vote, had to ride in the back of public buses, could not attend integrated schools and weren't allowed to use a public restroom unless it was designated only for blacks.

Hesburgh, 82, president emeritus of the University of Notre Dame, was describing the United States in the early 1960s.

It was an America that exists only in stories for most of his audience, which was composed primarily of students who weren't yet born when the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed.

"That was the United States of America in 1964. That's the situation Martin Luther King wanted to change," Hesburgh told an audience of about 200 people Monday night in LaFortune Student Center.

In his talk, Hesburgh reflected on his own experiences with King, the civil rights movement and the movement's impact on Notre Dame.

Hesburgh described King as a quiet, almost shy person, who nonetheless had a commanding presence.

Hesburgh was appointed to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights in the late 1950s.

The commission's task was to find out what the state of life was like for blacks in America. The commission held hearings across the country and compiled more than 100 reports on such topics as black access to voting places, housing, justice, education and transportation.

"We demonstrated, without a doubt, that south of the Mason-Dixon line there were 6 million potential voters who could not even register to vote," Hesburgh said.

He recalled firsthand accounts collected from blacks of subterfuges to block them from voting. In Mississippi, adults were required to prove they could read a newspaper in order to register. Racist poll workers responded by handing blacks a Chinese newspaper and ordering them to prove they could read it, he recalled.

Hesburgh described President Lyndon B. Johnson as one of his heroes.

"You hear lots of bad things about him. I happened to love the guy," Hesburgh said.

Johnson, a Democrat from Texas, had the courage to call a joint session of Congress three months after being sworn into office to announce he had a comprehensive civil rights bill he expected them to pass, Hesburgh recalled.

By July 1964, Johnson signed that bill. The next year, the Civil Rights Voting Act was passed and, three years later, a bill assuring equal access to housing.

In comparison, President Kennedy supported civil rights while campaigning but did nothing during his time in office to pass civil rights legislation, according to Hesburgh.

"When they walk in the front door of the White House, they want to stay there for eight years. (Kennedy) knew if he pushed and got tough about civil rights, that would be the end," he said.

Hesburgh called the passage of the civil rights bills "the turning point, exactly what Martin Luther King wanted to happen."

King was largely responsible because he had led support rallies all over the country, he said.

And Johnson used his own knowledge of Congress to get things done.

"He knew everything about everybody," Hesburgh said. "He knew who was drinking and how much. He knew who was sleeping with whom and where. And what he didn't know, (FBI Director) J. Edgar Hoover told him."

The Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh sits inside his office on the 13th floor of the Hesburgh Library at the University of Notre Dame on May 21, 2012.

Hesburgh recalled arriving at Notre Dame in 1934 as a freshman. "There wasn't a single black student, there wasn't a single black teacher, there wasn't a single black worker on the campus," he said. "I decided if I could help change that later, I would."

Hesburgh later led the move to attract black students to Notre Dame. However, he isn't satisfied with the results so far, and he thinks King wouldn't be satisfied, either.

Notre Dame's black student enrollment currently is 3 percent.

Hesburgh said the university must continue its efforts to fully integrate people of all races.

In response to a question about blacks who choose not to vote, Hesburgh responded: "To have political power finally and not to use it is terrible treason to your own race and your own cause."

"God help you if you don't vote," said Hesburgh, who said he always has cast a ballot unless he was out of the country and unable to make it to the polling place on Election Day.

When asked his opinion on affirmative action, he called it "a necessary weapon in our arsenal against racism."

Hesburgh long has been known for his commitment to civil rights. He served as a member of the Civil Rights Commission until 1972 and chaired the commission from 1969-1972.

Hesburgh retired in 1987 after 35 years as Notre Dame's president.

Hesburgh's leadership on civil rights was one of the achievements cited in the recent decision by Congress to award him the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor Congress can bestow upon a civilian. Hesburgh will be presented with the medal in a ceremony later this year in Washington D.C.

He noted that Rosa Parks, the woman who inspired the famous Montgomery (Ala.) bus boycott, was the most recent recipient of a Congressional Gold Medal.

"I'm proud to follow her," Hesburgh said, "because she really earned it."

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Notre Dame's Hesburgh recalls King, rights movement in 2000 talk
The Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh discusses his career at the University of Notre Dame and as a peace advocate Thursday, June 22, 2000, at his office on campus. He will receive the Congressional Gold Medal in Washington, D.C., next month.

Editor's note: This story originally appeared in the South Bend Tribune on Jan. 21, 2007.

SOUTH BEND  The Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh served as president of the University of Notre Dame from 1952 to 1987. As a charter member of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, he knew The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. personally.

Last week, as the country celebrated the life of the slain civil rights leader, Hesburgh met with staff writer May Lee Johnson to talk about his memories of Dr. King.

Q: Father Hesburgh, I understand that you had met Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. personally?

Yes, I met Dr. King many times.

Q: What were some of those times you saw and met with him?

We met in the 1960s, and those were turbulent times in the country. Black people were marching, going to jail, and little kids getting hosed, and it took a man with the moral leadership of Martin Luther King to bring it to the attention of the Civil Rights Commission and the country.

Q: What roles did the Civil Rights Commission play?

I had been on the Civil Rights Commission since its beginning in 1957. We had over 100 hearings all over the country, with King and black people at all the hearings.

We asked the tough questions and were given honest answers. Then we wrote the roughest, toughest law, the United States Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Q: Who was involved in getting the Civil Rights Act passed?

President Lyndon Baines Johnson was the only president that had the power to get the law passed. None of the others had the power that Johnson had, and even as a Southerner he got the bill passed.

That was the high-water mark in the Civil Rights Movement. Once you have a law, people respect the law. Once it was a law, the people respected it and things started to move along a lot faster.

Q: What did you see Dr. King's roles in the Civil Rights Act getting passed and the movement?

I would have to say that a big part of its passing goes back to Martin Luther King. King pressed for rights, and he wouldn't settle for just the rights of blacks and not the other. Not just the right to vote, but the right for all people to have human dignity.

Q: Dr. King was killed for his part in the civil rights revolution. What do you say about that?

King died as a martyr in that cause. In history, sometimes it takes martyrs to do great things. And while it was a terrible thing that Martin Luther King was shot and killed, the fact is that it was a turning point and it also gave then-President Johnson the impetus to pass that law (Civil Rights Law of 1964), although it was at a time in history when many in America didn't want it passed.

Q: What do you think Dr. King's legacy is?

Martin helped turn this country around at a time when it needed turning. It really took a black leader to give that kind of leadership, because it was the black people who were suffering.

Q: What kind of man would you say Dr. King was?

I can honestly say that Martin Luther King gave his life for all Americans, not just blacks but women Americans, who didn't have many rights in those days, and other minority people who had trouble with human rights. This law covers all of them.

And in that way, I say he was a great American because he helped change the face of America. Now there were many others, of course, who worked with him, and we on the Civil Rights Commission certainly worked hard, but I don't think we could have done it without the kind of moral leadership that Martin Luther King gave.

First, it took a certain kind of wisdom to know that what he was doing was the right thing to do.

Secondly, it took courage to stand against people who were willing to kill him, to shoot him, to say we're going to do this. And he used these famous words, "We Shall Overcome."

Q: Father Hesbugh, do you think we have overcome?

We did overcome. We've overcome prejudice, we've overcome bigotry, we've overcome ignorance. And all that was part of the legacy of Martin Luther King.

Q: Why do you think, 40 years later, no true black leader has been able to step up and lead black people like Dr. King did?

You see, great leaders are not common or numerous in any country.

Let's just look at the leaders of this country who fought for human rights: Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Lyndon Johnson. These men were a hundred years apart from each other, but it took all three of them -- one to put down the right words; secondly, one to get rid of the institution and free the slaves; and the last one passed laws so freedom and justice became the law of the land.

Q: How have we benefited from Dr. King's life?

We are the inheritors of his wisdom and courage, and for that we ought to be grateful to him.

In this May 15, 2007, file photo, the Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, president emeritus of the University of Notre Dame, reflects on a photo showing him joining hands with the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. at Soldier Field in Chicago at the Walk for Freedom Civil Rights March on June 21, 1964.

Q: What was the most memorable time you spent with Dr. King?

Martin decided to put on a march against segregated housing on the south side of Chicago. So Mayor Daley was upset about it, because he said Martin was giving Chicago a bad name.

Well, it already had a bad name. So Mayor Daley said he wasn't going to take part in the march and prayer service. ... Because he didn't go, Cardinal Cody wasn't going to, either.

So here we have the top civic and religious leaders not going to the march, and I thought that was terrible. So I went up and while I was standing there someone pulled me up on the stage and the moment we locked arms, it was a good feeling between us and we always had good feelings for each other. I have that picture right here.

Q. Do you believe that Martin Luther King's dream has been achieved?

I think a great portion of his dream -- the difference between what America was like before his death and before the Civil Rights Act of Lyndon Johnson -- it's day and night.

What amazes me today is that the young students don't realize how bad it was. When I came to teach at Notre Dame in 1934, there were not any black students here. When I came back in to teach in 1945 after getting my doctorate, there was only one black student.

And today, we work hard to get good black students in Notre Dame. Again, I think it's important to get students today to recognize the history that this was not something that was easily achieved.

It took all the time from 1776 to 1964 -- that's a long time -- and it took three great men -- Jefferson, Lincoln and Johnson -- to get the dream realized.

Q: How can we preserve his dream?

We do it by realizing his dream. I'm sure without the Civil Rights Act, you wouldn't have the job you have today, but because of his dream it's taken for granted it's normal. Just remember, those who don't study history are bound to repeat the errors.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Notre Dame's Theodore M. Hesburgh recalls Martin Luther King Jr.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. French President Emmanuel Macron's popularity decline has raised concern and also affected the tactics of his party's MPs, Trend reports via foreign media.

Many of them decided to leave Macron's photo out of their campaign materials for the early parliamentary election.

Is it safe to say that Macron's actions have become a source of embarrassment for the French?

At the end of the day, a few candidates from his camp believe so and are urging him to keep a lid on it during the campaign.

A report was prepared by Radio Europe 1 from the Poncelet market in the 17th arrondissement of Paris, where the French people critique the head of state sharply.

The president is also criticized at the Poncelet market in the 4th arrondissement of Paris.

There was a distinct lack of Macron supporters on the streets and in the fruit and vegetable shops.

The French consider the decline in purchasing power to be the main problem that arose under Macron.

Regular folks claim they used to have faith in him, but the current state of affairs has exposed a genuine problem, leading them to withhold their votes from Macron or his party.

Elderly folks remarked that he has a gift of gab, as if he's playing a role in a film or on a grand stage.

His party's candidates opted against including his picture on their campaign leaflets.

Unlike in 2022, the campaign materials of Astrid Panossian-Bouvet, of Armenian origin from the presidential party, feature a photo of Edouard Philippe (former prime minister of France) instead of Macron's photo.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Nearly 90,000 acres have been scorched by more than 2,000 wildfires this year, according to Cal Fire.

According to the states fire protection agency, June, typically recognized as the beginning of Californias wildfire season, has been a very active month for firefighters, which suggests we may be in for a rough year.

Californians are seeing first-hand fires that have been sparked across the state. If June is any indication, 2024 looks to be a busy fire year, Cal Fire officials said in a news release issued Wednesday.

Cal Fire says it has registered 2,156 wildfires year to date, which are responsible for burning more than 89,500 acres and destroying at least 22 structures.

As of Wednesday, there are 14 active fires of at least 10 acres burning across California.

The Post Fire, which has burned more than 15,600 acres near Gorman, is among the most destructive of the early fire season.

Post Fire affecting air quality in Los Angeles County

Around 1,600 firefighters from 43 different crews have responded to the Post Fire, along with 26 water tankers, 13 bulldozers, 24 helicopters, Cal Fire said. The fire has a current containment level of 39%.

Post Fire

Up north, firefighters are battling multiple brush fires that have already scorched thousands of acres.

The Sites Fire in Colusa County has destroyed more than 15,500 acres since it broke out Monday and has the potential to get exponentially larger, officials said. That fire is only 5% contained.

The Aero Fire in Calaveras County has burned 5,351 acres and is about 33% contained, and the Point Fire in Sonoma has burned about 1,200 acres and is about 50% contained.

One firefighter was injured battling the Sonoma County fire, but, thankfully, no deaths have been attributed to this years fires, officials said.

Cal Fire attributes the speed at which these fires spread to high winds, with some fires doubling in size overnight.

Californians have come to realize that when you mix high winds with dry/hot conditions we have a recipe for disaster, Cal Fire said.

Tim Edwards, president of Cal Fire Local 2881, said the state has given them the tools to fight the fires we expect to see, but he stressed that all firefighters will need to remain vigilant.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection says it will continue to work around the clock with its federal and local partner agencies to keep Californians safe during a potentially active fire season.

For a complete list of active wildfires, including the total number of personnel assigned and current containment levels, 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 KTLA.
21-Year-Old Arrested and Charged with Killing 15-Year-Old Girlfriend Just Before Her Middle School Graduation

Trevor Bady, 21, has been accused of fatally shooting Ahliana Dickey, 15, in Lowell, Massachusetts

Gofundme Ahliana Dickey

Trevor Bady, 21, has been arrested and charged with fatally shooting 15-year-old Ahliana Dickey

The teenager had been due to attend her 8th-grade graduation on June 14, and when she didn't appear her family called the police

The couple allegedly had been in an abusive relationship, according to a news release shared by the Middlesex County District Attorney's Office

A 21-year-old has been arrested and charged with shooting and killing his 15-year-old girlfriend just before she was due to attend her 8th-grade graduation in Lowell, Mass.

On June 14, at approximately 6:10 p.m. local time, Ahliana Dickey's grandmother "called Lowell Police to report that her granddaughter had been found, possibly deceased, inside her Lawrence Street home," a press release shared on the Middlesex County District Attorney's Office website confirmed.

Trevor Bady, 21 of Tewksbury, has since been arrested and charged with fatally shooting Dickey. The pair allegedly had been in an abusive relationship, the release on the District Attorney's website stated.

When Dickey failed to attend her graduation earlier that day, "her family became concerned and attempted to locate her before ultimately going to her home," the release said.

The teenage victim was found by police on the ground in a first-floor bedroom with apparent gunshot wounds. Multiple shell casings were also located at the scene, the District Attorney's Office confirmed.

Middlesex County District Attorney/youtube Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan (left) and Lowell Police Superintendent Greg Hudon at a press conference

"Shortly after midnight on June 14, 2024, Lowell Police received a call from an individual on Lawrence Street reporting that a male and female were fighting outside across the street. The caller reported hearing a female screaming 'get off me, get away from me, I dont want to be with you anymore.' The caller also reported hearing gunshots," the release stated.

"Police responded to the scene but the parties could not be located. Video recovered in the area of the scene allegedly showed a female, later identified as the victim, yelling for help shortly before midnight and a male party, allegedly identified as the defendant, leaving the victims home shortly after midnight," the release added.

In a June 17 press conference, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan confirmed that the shooting took place six weeks after Dickey turned 15.

Bady was charged with murder, home invasion, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, use of a firearm while committing a felony and discharge of a firearm within 500 feet of a building, Ryan said.

Bady was held without bail as he appeared in court on Tuesday, June 18, per NBC10 Boston.

Hes a coward. He couldnt even show his face, 21-year-old monster," the victim's grandmother, Tracy Smith, said, per the outlet.

At the Lowell District Court hearing, the assistant district attorney said, "On June 12, 2024, [Ahliana] confided in one person that this defendant made statements such as Im going to kill you, Im going to kill your grandma and that he was going to shoot up her house and that he threatened to kidnap her and shoot her," according to NBC10.

Lowell District Court and the Lowell Police Department didn't immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE.

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Per the District Attorney's release, police learned on June 15 that "the defendant had allegedly taken an Uber to and from the victims home before and after the murder. The driver later reported that he had had a suspicious passenger and expressed concern. That passenger was allegedly identified as the defendant."

The June 17 release added, "This afternoon police were able to locate the defendant inside a Peabody residence. He was arrested without incident."

A GoFundMe page set up by the victim's parents to help the family has reached almost $12,000 so far.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.



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26-year-old Wisconsin man dead after veering off highway and crashing into trees

MEQUON, Wis. (WFRV)  Authorities in southeastern Wisconsin are investigating a single-vehicle crash that left a 26-year-old man dead on Wednesday morning.

According to a release, the Mequon Police Department was sent to the 1400 block of Pioneer Road shortly after 7:00 a.m. for a report of a single-vehicle crash.

Wisconsin woman arrested for aiding attempted homicide suspects escape who remains at large

Upon arrival, officers found a dark-colored sedan that had veered off the roadway and was found around 100 feet from the road, obscured by shrubbery.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle had collided with trees, resulting in significant front-end damage.

UPDATE: Man charged with stabbing on St. Patricks Day in Green Bay back in court for status conference

The driver, a 26-year-old Cedarburg man, was found dead in the drivers seat. The medical examiner was called to the scene and confirmed the death.

The Mequon Police Department, in collaboration with the Ozaukee County Accident Reconstruction Team, is currently investigating the incident. No additional details were 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.
3 new charter schools head to the Rock Hill region, as a big SC grant helps one of them

A major grant from the state Education Department will help add another charter school option in the Rock Hill region. Its one of several new schools planned for the area.

Cogito Academy received $850,000 toward its opening next year. The Lancaster school will offer pre-kindergarten through 6th grade, adding a grade each of the next two school years. Charter Institute at Erskine sponsored Cogito Academy. Tutelage School Solutions will operate it.

The grant money will be used to promote awareness of the school, develop curriculum, train board members and cover insurance costs.

Like typical public schools, charter schools are funded by state and federal dollars. Families of students dont pay tuition and there can be more flexibility in how large an area the school serves or its educational focus. Charters schools are non-religious and nonprofit entities.

Charter schools began in the state in 1996 when South Carolina passed a law related to how they form. Theyve grown in recent years, as has debate surrounding them from their funding impact on traditional public schools to educational politics in curriculum.

More than 50,000 students attend charter schools in the state, according to the Public Charter School Alliance of South Carolina.

Cogito Academy in Lancaster will be the sister school to Libertas Academy in Boiling Springs, shown here. Cogito received a state education department grant for $850,000 to help open the school next year.

South Carolina has 95 charter schools. The Rock Hill region has six, ranging from Riverwalk Academy and York Preparatory Academy in Rock Hill to local school district offerings.

The Rock Hill School District has The Palmetto School. Theres the Discovery School in the Lancaster County School District and The Academy for Teaching and Learning in the Chester County School District.

Each charter school requires a sponsor. Riverwalk and York Prep are part of the South Carolina Public Charter School District. Its the largest sponsor organization with 40 schools.

Charter Institute at Erskine, the states second largest, sponsors 28 charter or virtual schools across South Carolina. Legion Collegiate Academy in Rock Hill is one of them, serving high school students. The charter institute also has seven pipeline schools set to open. Nearly half of them are in the Rock Hill region.

More charter school plans

Early last year, Ascent Classical Academies submitted applications via the Erskine institute for four new charter schools in South Carolina, including one in Fort Mill.

Ascent Classical Academy of Fort Mill will open in August with kindergarten to 8th grades. An additional grade will come with each new school year until the school serves kindergarten through 12th grade.

Ascent will start with a temporary location in Rock Hill, at Hope Fellowship Church. The school is part of a Colorado-based organization with nine opened or planned schools.

American Leadership Academy Rock Hill is another Charter Institute school. It will open as a pre-kindergarten through 8th grade school in 2026. Cogito Academy is the third school planned in the area.

The six charter schools in the Rock Hill region combined for about 3,300 students last year.

For comparison, the Rock Hill School District had 24 schools and almost 16,500 students. The Fort Mill School District was the largest in York County with almost 18,200 students in its 20 schools.

Greenwood Charter Academy, shown here, is one of three sister schools to Cogito Academy. Cogito will open next year in Lancaster as a new charter school option.
4 charged with robberies of USPS employees in Greensboro, charges pending in Charlotte, police say

4 charged with robberies of USPS employees in Greensboro, charges pending in Charlotte, police say

GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP/ WJZY)  Multiple suspects have been charged with robbing postal workers in Greensboro and Charlotte.

According to the Greensboro Police Department, on June 17 just after 10 a.m., a USPS employee reported being robbed at gunpoint in the area of Glenwood Avenue and Haywood Street while delivering mail. They were the second USPS employee who had been robbed in Greensboro on Monday morning, police say.

Livingstone College uses $6M in anonymous donations for renovations and repairs

The suspect vehicle was described as a blue Nissan Rogue and the description was shared with other law enforcement agencies.

Police say that the suspects then traveled to Charlotte and robbed more USPS employees around 1:30 p.m. in the 5000 block of Somerset Hill Lane. This is near W. Sugar Creek Road and Interstate 85.

Just before 3 p.m. Monday, the suspect vehicle was spotted and stopped on Randleman Road in Greensboro. The suspects ran away, and according to police, during the brief chase, one of the suspects, identified as 18-year-old Jason Harrington accidentally shot himself below the waist.

Jason Harrington (GCSO)

Taijwan Cross (GCSO)

Shaun Clarke (GCSO)

Deonte Overby (GCSO)

He was taken to the hospital and the other three suspects were arrested. Harrington, along with Taijawan Cross, 19, Shaun Clark, 21, and Deonte Overby, 20, were all charged with two counts of robbery with a dangerous weapon and two counts of felony conspiracy for the robberies in Greensboro.

Additional charges for the Charlotte robberies are pending.

None of the postal carriers robbed were hurt.

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.
41-year-old man dies near bottom of Grand Canyon after overnighting in the park

A 41-year-old hiker who spent the night at the bottom of the Grand Canyon has been found dead not far from where he overnighted.

The Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of an unresponsive man on the Bright Angel Trail just before 7 a.m. Sunday, the National Park Service said. Bystanders and park service personnel were unsuccessful in their attempts to resuscitate him.

The man was hiking out of the canyon after staying overnight at the Bright Angel Campground near the Phantom Ranch lodge, the park service reported.

The National Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner are investigating the death.

Temperatures at the bottom of the Grand Canyon in June can easily reach the triple digits. Though it's unclear how hot it was on Sunday, recent visitors have reported temperatures in the high 80s and 90s.

A land of extremes, the Grand Canyon National Park can prove to be treacherous to those on foot, whether it's high temperatures or icy trails.

Body recovered in Grand Canyon last month

The 41-year-old man is the second reported death at the Grand Canyon this year. Park rangers recovered the body of a missing 58-year-old in the Colorado River on May 10, according to the park service.

Thomas Robison of Santa Fe, New Mexico presumably traveled down the Colorado River with his 11-year-old corgi dog on a wooden raft. His car was found at the Lees Ferry site on April 21 and a missing person search began a few days later.

The park service said an investigation was underway.

About 12 people die at the Grand Canyon every year

About 12 people die at the Grand Canyon every year, according to an unofficial tally by Michael P. Ghiglieri and Thomas M. Myers, authors of "Over the Edge: Death in the Grand Canyon."

Although Ghiglieri and Myers found that the leading cause of death in the canyon are helicopter and airplane crashes, deaths from environmental conditions like heat have been on the rise in recent decades.

At least 10 deaths were reported at the national park last year, including two at the Bright Angel Trail.

James Handschy, a 65-year-old from Oracle, Arizona, died in November after he used a personal locator beacon to summon rescuers.

In May, a 36-year-old woman from Westfield, Indiana, died while attempting to make it to the Colorado River and back in one day.

Contributing: Amanda Lee Myers, Amaris Encinas and Aidan Wohl

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 41-year-old hiker dies near bottom of Grand Canyon after overnighting
42 combat clashes since beginning of day, mostly on the Pokrovsk front  Ukraine's General Staff

Russian invaders are attacking along the entire line of contact, and 42 combat clashes have occurred since the beginning of the day. On the Pokrovsk front, Russians have already made 13 attempts to break through the defensive lines.

Source: report by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as of 10:00 on 19 June

Quote: "42 combat clashes have already occurred since the beginning of the day. The enemy launched 6 airstrikes with 12 guided aerial bombs, used 41 kamikaze drones and carried out more than 600 attacks on the positions of our troops and settlements."

Details: On the Kharkiv front, the Russian assault action near the village of Lyptsi was unsuccessful, and the battle continued in Vovchansk.

On the Kupiansk front, four combat clashes continue near Pishchane, Stepova Novoselivka and Kruhliakivka. The situation is under control.

On the Lyman front, the Russians attacked the positions of the Ukrainian defence forces near Hrekivka, Nevske, and Terniv five times. The situation is tense, and the fighting continues.

On the Kramatorsk front, nine combat clashes have occurred since the beginning of the day. Ukrainian defenders repelled two attacks by Russian forces near Nove and Klishchiivka. Seven combat clashes continue in the vicinity of Kalynivka, Nove and Ivanivske.

On the morning of 18 June, on the Pokrovsk front, the Russians made 13 attempts to break through Ukrainian defensive lines near Novooleksandrivka, Kalynove, Sokil, and Novoselivka Persha.

Quote from the General Staff: "Units of the defence forces repelled eight attacks, and another five are ongoing. Ukrainian soldiers are taking measures to prevent the Russian aggressor from advancing into the depths of our territory."

On the Kurakhove front, the Russian attack near Paraskoviivka failed. A tense situation remains near Krasnohorivka, where three combat clashes are ongoing.

On the Vremivka front, Russian assault actions near Rivnopil were not successful. Another attack continues near Urozhaine. No positions were lost.

The Russians unsuccessfully attacked Ukrainian units near Mala Tokmachka on the Orikhiv front.

On the Prydniprovia front, the Russian attempt to drive Ukrainian soldiers back from the left-bank part of the Dnipro River was unsuccessful.

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Millions of Americans are observing Juneteenth today, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Major retailers and grocery stores will remain open, but post offices and most banks will be closed.

Heres what else you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day.

1. Hurricane season

A tropical storm warning is in effect for parts of Texas and Mexico as a predicted hyperactive hurricane season kicks into gear. The system threatening the southwestern Gulf Coast has been designated Potential Tropical Cyclone One by the National Hurricane Center and will likely strengthen to a tropical storm by the end of the day. A level 3 of 4 risk of flooding is in place for much of South Texas today. Torrential rainfall is also expected to considerably ramp up the flood threat, not just in the US, but also in parts of Mexico and Central America. While rain is needed desperately in the bone-dry region, the deluge could quickly overwhelm parched soil unable to absorb water as fast as it falls, resulting in dangerous flooding.

2. Immigration

The Biden administration on Tuesday announced an executive action allowing some undocumented spouses and children of US citizens to apply for lawful permanent residency without leaving the country. The president formally unveiled the action during a White House event marking the 12th anniversary of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA. To be eligible for the program, the person must have lived in the US for at least 10 years and be legally married to a US citizen. The application process will open by the end of the summer. In contrast, former President Donald Trump has promised to deport more than 10 million people if he is elected to a second term. Biden says Trumps mass deportation policy would rip spouses and children from their families, homes and communities and place them in detention camps.

3. Middle East

Israel warned Hezbollah of the prospect of all-out war after the Lebanese militant group published a 9-minute video, purportedly taken by a drone, showing Israeli military and civilian locations in several Israeli cities. The publication of the video follows months of intensifying cross-border attacks between Hezbollah and Israel in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attacks and the ensuing military campaign by Israeli forces in Gaza. The US and its allies have for months warned Hezbollah  an Iran-backed Islamist movement with one of the most powerful paramilitary forces in the Middle East  against escalating the conflict in Israel. Hezbollah, meanwhile, has said in the past that it will only stop firing on Israel if it stops the war in Gaza.

4. Willie Mays

Baseball legend Willie Mays, one of the games most electrifying players who made a dramatic catch in the 1954 World Series, died Tuesday. He was 93. Mays passed away peacefully and among loved ones, his son, Michael Mays, said in a statement. In 23 major league seasons, mostly with the New York Giants and the San Francisco Giants, Willie Mays finished with 660 career home runs  the second most at the time behind Babe Ruth. Among numerous accolades, Mays was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979. One of baseballs most colorful and exciting stars excelled in all phases of the game, his plaque reads.

5. Starliner

Two NASA astronauts will extend their stay on the International Space Station as crews on the ground work to better understand issues with the Starliner spacecraft that carried them into orbit. Since the historic crewed launch on June 5, the astronauts have navigated a number of issues with the Boeing-built vehicle  including malfunctioning thrusters and a series of helium leaks. Boeing and NASA said Tuesday that Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore  who arrived at the space station on June 6 for what was estimated to be roughly a weeklong visit  will not return home before June 26. The mission aims to further research and expand the United States options for ferrying astronauts to the space station in collaboration with private industry partners.

The Boeing Starliner spacecraft (far back) is seen docked with the International Space Station's Harmony module on June 14. - NASA

BREAKFAST BROWSE

Farthest spacecraft from Earth sends data from uncharted territory

NASA engineers have restored a steady stream of valuable science data from Voyager 1 as it studies interstellar space more than 15 billion miles from Earth.

Aliens, artists or pranksters? Another mysterious monolith appears

A shiny silver pillar was spotted by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department prompting theories about its origins.

Justin Timberlake charged with DWI, police release mug shot

The pop star has been charged with driving while intoxicated. New video appears to show Timberlake driving minutes before he was pulled over.

Nintendo surprises fans with new Zelda game

Nintendo announced a new Zelda title where gamers will finally be able to play the titular princess from the legendary fantasy series.

The American shopper is cutting back

Evidence is starting to mount that US consumers are pulling back as they face tough economic hurdles. Sales declined the most at gas stations and furniture stores last month, data shows.

TODAYS NUMBER

29

Thats how many active large fires are burning across the US, according to the National Interagency Fire Center, with 10 of those reported in California. In New Mexico, the governor has declared a state of emergency due to raging wildfires this week that have prompted thousands of residents to evacuate.

TODAYS QUOTE

The public may now resume calling 911 for emergencies.

 Massachusetts officials, announcing a statewide 911 outage has been resolved after the system was down for over an hour on Tuesday. The agency said it is investigating the cause of the disruption.

TODAYS WEATHER

Check your local forecast here>>>

AND FINALLY 

This chocolate bar has gone viral

With one TikTok video, an unusual stuffed chocolate bar in Dubai became a global sensation. Meet the woman behind the viral treat.

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A Juneteenth celebration in Prospect Park in New York City in 2022. (Michael Nagle/Xinhua News Agency via Getty Images)

After decades of being celebrated at mostly the local level, Juneteenth  the long-standing holiday that commemorates the arrival of news of emancipation and freedom to enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, in 1865  became a federal holiday in 2021. In honor of Juneteenth, The Conversation reached out to Wake Forest University Divinity School dean and humanities professor Corey D. B. Walker for a list of readings that can help people better understand the history and meaning of the observance. Below, Walker recommends six books.

On Juneteenth

Combining history and memoir, Annette Gordon-Reeds On Juneteenth offers a moving history of African American life and culture through the prism of Juneteenth. The award-winning Harvard historian presents an intimate portrait of the experiences of her family and her memories of life as an African American girl growing up in segregated Texas. The essays in her book invite readers to enter a world shaped by the forces of freedom and slavery.

Reeds exploration of the history and legacy of Juneteenth is a poignant reminder of the hard history all Americans face.

O Freedom! Afro-American Emancipation Celebrations

William H. Wiggins Jr.s O Freedom! Afro-American Emancipation Celebrations is the historical standard for African American emancipation celebrations. It offers an accessible and well-researched account of the emergence and evolution of Juneteenth.

Wiggins brings together oral history with archival research to share the stories of how African Americans celebrated emancipation. It explains how Juneteenth is part of the tapestry of emancipation celebrations. These celebrations included such dates as January 1, in North Carolina, April 3, in Richmond, Virginia, and April 16, in Washington, D.C.

What began as a local holiday has evolved into a national celebration.

Juneteenth celebrations are known for the variety of programs and events that highlight African American history and culture. In the 1960s, students at Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas, informed faculty that classes would not be held on Juneteenth. In Milwaukee, the local Juneteenth parade includes a group known as the Black Cowboys riding their horses along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Juneteenth celebrations also feature cultural fairs and exhibitions, artistic performances and historical reenactments. Lectures and public conversations, community feasts and religious services are also part of the celebrations.

Juneteenth

Ralph Ellison, perhaps best known for his novel Invisible Man, offers multiple meanings of Juneteenth in African American and American life in his posthumously published novel Juneteenth.

The ambivalence of Juneteenth is of a freedom delayed but not denied. Ellisons spiraling novel captures this in the entangled and tragic lives of the racist Senator Sunraider  previously known as Bliss  and the minister who raised him, the Reverend A. Z. Hickman. For Ellison, Juneteenth represents more than just a celebration of emancipation. It also represents the shared fate of white Americans and African Americans in the quest to create a just and equal society. The promise and peril of Juneteenth is elegantly captured in Hickmans words, Theres been a heap of Juneteenths before this one and I tell you therell be a heap more before were truly free!

Festivals of Freedom: Memory and Meaning of African American Emancipation Celebrations, 1808-1915

Mitch Kachuns book, Festivals of Freedom: Memory and Meaning of African American Emancipation Celebrations, 1808-1915, traces the history of emancipation celebrations and their influence on African American identity and community. Juneteenth joined a longer tradition of emancipation celebrations. Those celebrations included ones at the end of the trans-Atlantic slave trade in the United States on Jan. 1, 1808. They also included the August First Day/West India Day celebrations that marked the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire on Aug. 1, 1834.

With an eye for historical detail, Kachun narrates a complex history of how Juneteenth and other freedom festivals shaped African American identity and political culture. The celebrations also displayed competing meanings of African American identity. In Washington, D.C. in the late 19th century, different groups of African Americans held distinct celebrations. These variations underscored tensions around political ideals, status and identity. Kachuns book reminds us that Juneteenth served as a crucible for forging a collective and contested sense of African American community.

Emancipation Day celebration, June 19, 1900, held in East Woods on East 24th St. in Austin, Texas. (Austin History Center)

Rites of August First: Emancipation Day in the Black Atlantic World

Similar to Kachuns book, Howard University historian Jeffrey R. Kerr-Ritchies Rites of August First: Emancipation Day in the Black Atlantic World reminds readers of a broader history and geography of emancipation celebrations.

Kerr-Ritchie focuses on how various African American communities adopted and adapted West India Day celebrations. He also explores how they created meaning and culture in celebrating the abolition of slavery in the British West Indies. Kerr-Ritchies book details how these celebrations moved across political borders and boundaries.

Juneteenth: The Story Behind the Celebration

Contemporary invocations of Juneteenth often overlook its military history.

Edward T. Cotham, Jr.s Juneteenth: The Story Behind the Celebration fills the void by exploring the Civil War origins of Juneteenth.

Cotham renders explicit the military context leading up to the events on June 19, 1865, in Galveston. This is when enslaved Black people there finally got word that they had been freed more than two years prior. Cotham reminds readers that the history of Juneteenth involves ordinary actions of many individual people whose names may not be widely known.

Collectively, these books about Juneteenth offer fresh perspectives on the history and culture of African Americans on a quest to fully express their freedom. Juneteenth is also an invitation for all Americans to continue to learn about and strive for freedom for all people.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The post 6 books that explain the history and meaning of Juneteenth appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Covington Police Department investigation led to the arrest of six teenagers allegedly responsible for multiple vehicle burglaries.

According to the CPD, between June 11-14, a large amount of calls were coming in regarding multiple vehicles that had been ransacked.

Police say approximately $4,500 of various items were stolen from the vehicles, including seven firearms. The suspects also caused around $1,800 in damage during the burglaries.

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Officers began canvassing the communities and received multiple reports of the male suspects entering the residential area and fleeing in two vehicles  later determined to be a blue Chevy Cruz and a gray Nissan Altima.

On June 13, a BOLO was issued by the Tipton County Sheriffs Office for a Nissan Altima that was said to have been involved in an attempted vehicle burglary in Terrytown.

CPD officers located the vehicle in Covington and identified the registered owner. Officers then spoke with the owner of the car and residence, and the car was towed by the TCSO for forensic processing related to the burglary.

Reports say that while searching the area, officers also located a backpack in a dumpster, which contained two electronic devices that were stolen during the vehicle burglary.

A search warrant was executed on the home, where officers found property from the numerous vehicle burglaries. Other items were also recovered regarding a CPD gang-related incident that occurred in the area of Frazier Park, police say.

 See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid-South.

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During the gang-related incident, a 16-year-old boy was arrested and charged with possession of a stolen weapon, carrying a weapon on school property, unlawful carrying or possession of a weapon, and evading arrest.

After running leads on the suspect vehicles, Intelligence Analysists with the CPD were able to identify the owner of the Chevy Cruz as a 16-year-old boy.

Detectives with the CPD and TCSO were eventually able to identify six possible suspects in the vehicle burglary ring. The suspects included five juveniles ranging from 15 to 17 years old, and 18-year-old Broderick Royster, who is currently wanted by the CPD.

Detectives are still searching for Broderick Royster, who lives in Shelby County. He is described as 5-foot-8, 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Royster could potentially be armed. If you have any information regarding Roysters whereabouts, contact the Covington Police Department at 901-475-1261 or the Tipton County Sheriffs Office at 901-475-3300.

According to police, all of the suspects involved in the vehicle burglaries are affiliated with the Vice Lord gang. Each of the juveniles were charged with eight counts of burglary of a motor vehicle and eight counts of vandalism.

I commend the quick efforts of the VCU (Violent Crime Unit) team, CPD detectives, officers, deputies, and analysts who quickly identified the suspects in these cases. A huge piece of this investigation was our citizens who saw something and immediately called resulting breaking the case. It was an example of great police work to focus on the safety of our communities, Chief Donna Turner said in a statement. We have seen an uptick in gang activity and have been monitoring social media and those known to be involved in their criminal activity. The VCU continues to work with surrounding counties to proactively reduce violence before it occurs in Tipton County.

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.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 19. Russia is preparing to suspend participation in the work of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (PA), Trend reports via Russian media.

According to the media, Federation Council Chair Valentina Matviyenko instructed the International Affairs Committee to prepare a draft decision on suspending the participation of the Russian delegation in the work of the OSCE PA for the next plenary meeting on July 3.

I support the proposal of the Committee on International Affairs, together with the State Duma, to prepare everything necessary in order to make a joint decision to suspend the activities of our national delegation in the work of the OSCE PA. Only the parliamentary assembly will lose, she said.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
CHICAGO  A 7-year-old boy was shot and killed on Chicagos Near West Side Tuesday, a victim of what police called random gunfire.

The Cook County Medical Examiners Office identified the victim as Jaimani Amir Rivera.

SkyCam9 flew above the scene in the 2300 block of W. Jackson following reports of shots fired just after 3 p.m. Chicago police Supt. Larry Snelling said Tuesday evening during a press conference that the boy was walking out of his home to visit a neighbor next door when shots rang out.

This child was walking out of their residence and was struck by gunfire, Snelling said.

The boy received aid from arriving officers. Officers ultimately put the child in the back of the squad car and rushed him to the hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, the child was later pronounced dead.

No one is in custody in the fatal shooting.

Snelling called gun violence in the city unbearable and unacceptable.

We are losing our children and we really need to think about the gun violence that is going on in this city, he added. We all need to step up to try and fight this gun violence to try and save our children.

According to Snelling, shots rang out from a far distance. Detectives canvassed the nearby areas for additional clues on the shooting. Police do not believe the 7-year-old was the intended target, however. Snelling would not speculate on whether gang violence resulted in the childs shooting death.

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All told, 127 juveniles have fallen victim to gun violence, 17 fatally, this year, Snelling said.

We will not rest until we bring some justice to this case, and its not just this case, we are seeing this happen all too often to our children, the citys top cop added.

Chicago Mayor says enough is enough

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson joined Snelling for the Tuesday evening presser, echoing his sentiments that gun violence has reached a breaking point.

The grief in this city has become increasingly more unbearable, he said. The ungodly behavior, the acts of violence that have plagued our city for so long have reached a breaking point  this is no longer simply about tragedy, but it is about course-correcting ways of life of some individuals in this city that have caused terror, trauma and torment.

We will hold individuals accountable.

Near West Side residents plead for help to make community safer

Shock and fear ran through many longtime Oakley Square Apartment residents after gunfire erupted in the area. Ethiopia Jackson described the chaotic scene.

When I heard it, I immediately went out screaming, she said. I saw everybody running towards their building.

Jackson said the gunfire sounded like it came from a big gun.

It sounded like it was coming into my unit, she said.

The Near West Side apartment complex is a gated community but neighbors told WGN News that they havent felt safe in years.

Scared to walk out your door, Rhonda Dyson said. You dont know if theres going to be a shootout coming in or going out. Its a shame we have to be locked up in prison in our home because of people shooting.

Samarian Dyson, 11, was among many who felt that ongoing gun violence has created a traumatic living environment.

I cant go outside to play with my friends and cousins because were all afraid we might die, he said.

Neighbors are pleading for help to make their community safer, asking whoever is behind the shooting to hold themselves accountable.

Let our children grow up, Sequnnia Coakley said.

We just want the shootings to stop, Sandra Ramsey added. Its senseless.

The Tuesday shooting comes after more than 70 people were shot, eight fatally, across Chicago this past weekend.

Anyone with information may leave an anonymous tip at cpdtip.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 WGN-TV.
LOGAN, Utah (ABC4)  A Cache County woman faces 18 felony child sex abuse charges from incidents dating back over the last 30 years, according to court documents.

Ruth Zurcher Worthen, 75, was arrested Tuesday, June 18, on 15 felony counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child and three felony counts of object rape of a child.

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Cache County Sheriffs Office Lt. Mikelshan Bartschi said investigators believe there may be more victims than those who have pressed charges.

The allegations suggest additional individuals, were victimized by Ms. Worthen. The Cache County Sheriffs Office is not only seeking other victims to identify themselves but also requesting information from anyone who has knowledge regarding this matter, said Bartschi in a press release Wednesday, June 19.

Court documents show four victims, male and female, have come forward with child sex abuse allegations. Each victim was interviewed separately. The alleged abuses all occurred during the victims childhoods and each reported prolonged periods of repeated sexual victimization.



The explanations given by the victims included highly graphic details, including acts of penetration with hands, hairbrushes, and a spatula. One victim reported being forced into intercourse with Worthen between the ages of 8 and 12.

The stories told by the victims, however, also involve allegations of psychological abuse in addition to sexual abuse. The victims alleged Worthen would make threats during the sexual abuse, such as threatening to dismember a victim by cutting off arms one by one, chop[ping] them into pieces and then bury[ing] them separately in the yard and cutting off an ear or stabbing them in the abdomen and ripping out their lungs.

Victims claimed Worthen would tell them as children that no one loves you, and youre stupid. Worthen is accused of showing victims a book with pornography and also on occasion filming some instances of abuse. Investigators seized a camcorder-style camera and a number of old tapes and media potential consistent with the time frame.

Alleged car thief found dead after car crash in Box Elder County

One victim spoke of how predatorial [Worthen] was, and how she took every opportunity to abuse [the victim] during the summers [they] stayed with her family or during family events, and also how she seemed to get a thrill from doing this under everyones noses.

The probable cause statement says Worthen was interviewed by Cache County investigators.

While she denied having engaged in such behavior on several occasions, on many more occasions she did not deny the allegations, even while graphic accusations were being read to her, states the court document. She appeared to deflect questions and attempted to shift blame onto other individuals.

The document went on to state that when Worthen was told the victims simply wanted to make sure she never committed such acts in the future, she allegedly simply shrugged and looked down at the floor. The document continued: Her denials were completely unconvincing, and when informed she would be booked into the jail showed no apparent behavior change or concern at all.

There are additional allegations against Worthen that she has not been charged with due to statute of limitations issues, according to the probable cause statement. In 2019, one victim whose allegations were unable to be brought to criminal court due to statute of limitations issues and a lack of a statute for child rape at the time, filed a civil lawsuit against Worthen.

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.
ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  An Abilene man accused of sexually abusing a child for years has been sentenced to prison.

Jesse Mendoza, Jr., 33, received a 12-year prison sentence Tuesday following a guilty plea to an Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child charge that stemmed from an investigation that began in July 2019.

Court documents state a mother came forward to police and said her daughter, who is under the age of 14, made an outcry that Mendoza assaulted her on more than one occasion, beginning when she was 6-years-old.

The child was able to describe an incident where Mendoza attempted to sexually assault her in his apartment then apologized and told her, not to tell her mother or they would get in trouble, according to the documents.

She also described another incident where he sexually abused her in his truck.

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.
An influential Presbyterian denomination yet again balked on policy revisions aimed at bolstering accountability measures for ministers accused of wrongdoing, contributing to what advocates for abuse reform see as a disappointing pattern.

The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) considered and ultimately rejected two proposals, called overtures, to require background checks and expand the eligibility of witnesses in church court cases during the recent PCA General Assembly in Richmond, Virginia.

Both overtures had also came before the PCAs top policymaking assembly in 2023 in the wake of an abuse study and similarly failed. Though opponents of the proposals cited legal concerns or a fear of compromising core doctrinal beliefs, advocates for reform are concerned the inaction follows a lack of awareness about cases happening in real-time.

Echoing a debate at the 2023 PCA General Assembly in Memphis, opponents of the overture to expand witness eligibility in church courts said the policy change accounts for a hypothetical scenario. But delegates to this years PCA General Assembly, called commissioners, also raised a more fundamental objection.

The Presbyterian Church in America, an influential evangelical Christian denomination, gathers for its 50th General Assembly on June 14, 2023, at the Renasant Convention Center in Downtown Memphis.

Paul warns us against taking our grievances to the unrighteous. Now we want to invite them into our courts, Mississippi commissioner Zach Byrd said during a June 13 floor debate. The ends of discipline are reclaiming a brother. But primarily it is the glory of God. This is Christs court.

The overture would have removed language in the PCA Book of Church Order section 35 that currently prohibits testimony from witnesses who do not believe in the existence of God. Advocates for reform contend the current restrictions, which technically allow testimony from witnesses who believe in other monotheistic religious traditions, withholds important testimony from victims of ministers accused of abuse.

Its not at all uncommon for victims of church abuse to have conflicts of faith, advocate Lynna Sutherland said in a June 18 podcast reflecting on the witness eligibility debate at the PCA General Assembly. So, if sheep eating shepherds drive their only credible accusers out of the church, who can bring accountability for their behavior?

Earlier in the week, a subcommittee rejected the overture to expand witness eligibility. Then, before the full assembly, a motion to reverse the subcommittees decision and to approve the proposal failed by about 20 votes.

Donna Wescott is another advocate for reform and attended the Richmond assembly in-person. She said on a June 18 podcast she left the event feeling the systems and organization of the PCA is much more important to some of these men than real life, flesh and blood who have experienced abuse.

"These issues are often treated just as a matter of theory that can be debated," she said.

Other PCA General Assembly news: Limit on women preaching in PCA fails despite approval for inquiry on author Sarah Young

Growing awareness, some changes

Both the overtures on expanding witness eligibility and to require background checks emerged from a growing awareness of misconduct in the PCA and a 2022 report on preventing and responding to those instances of inappropriate behavior.

That 2022 report from the PCA ad interim committee on domestic abuse and sexual assault (known as the DASA committee) recommended changes to the denominations policies and best practices to help churches and presbyteries, the term for regional church authorities, take stronger disciplinary action and to better care for abuse survivors. As the primary mechanism for disciplining a PCA minister, most of those recommended changes focused on the church court system.

The Presbyterian Church in America, an influential evangelical Christian denomination, gathers for its 50th General Assembly on June 14, 2023, at the Renasant Convention Center in Downtown Memphis.

The church has a duty to maintain the boundaries of membership and to remove wolves from leadership, New York commissioner Tim LeCroy said during the June 13 floor debate about the witness eligibility measure. We cannot cede the power of the keys to the state if the state fails in its job to exercise the power of the sword.

LeCroy, a New York pastor who served as chair of the DASA committee, disputed arguments the civilian court system is sufficient for responding to clergy abuse and noted statistically very few victims report allegations to the police.

I believe our duty to preserve the truth means we should receive that information in order to exonerate the falsely accused, LeCroy said during the June 13 floor debate. Likewise, if there is information that our courts could receive that would convict the rightly accused, we should receive it.

Awareness about alleged misconduct in the PCA has incrementally grown in the past couple years, gaining traction when Indiana pastor Dan Herron faced allegations of sexual harassment in 2022. Other cases in the past year  such as allegations of misconduct against Nashville pastor Ian Sears and Philadelphia pastor Liam Goligher, both of whom have resigned from their churches and are facing ongoing disciplinary proceedings  have added to that awareness.

The Church of Grace Village in Nashville , Tenn., Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, where Ian Sears served as senior pastor before facing discipline with the Nashville Presbytery over alleged misconduct. Following Sears' resignation in September 2023, the Nashville Presbytery approved the closure of the church in May 2024.

In response to this growing awareness and DASA committee recommendations, the PCA General Assembly has ratified two legislative proposals over the past two years. The most recent one is an amendment to PCA Book of Church Order section 38-1, a provision commonly known as case without process. Essentially the equivalent of a guilty plea in the civilian court system, case without process allows a minister to confess to wrongdoing and avoid a church court trial.

The recent change to section 38-1 allows a victim or offended person(s) to receive information about a ministers confession. This change acts as a sort of backstop to an otherwise secretive practice in which a presbytery receives a ministers confession in executive session, a something that came to the forefront of the Nashville Presbyterys disciplinary cases for Sears and former Christ Presbyterian Church senior pastor Scott Sauls.

Latest on Nashville Presbytery cases: Nashville Presbyterian churches navigate upheaval after discipline, resignation of pastors

Opportunity to avoid humiliation

Instead of outright rejecting the proposal requiring background checks as it did last year, the PCA General Assembly this year approved an amended proposal encouraging churches and presbyteries to conduct background checks.

Speaking on behalf of the PCA Committee on Overtures that recommended to the full assembly that amended proposal, Florida commissioner Steve Tipton said the change doesnt prevent churches from administering background checks. Tipton cited guidance the overtures committee received from PCA lawyers earlier in the week as a reason for softening the language.

The Presbyterian Church in America, an influential evangelical Christian denomination, gathers for its 50th General Assembly on June 14, 2023, at the Renasant Convention Center in Downtown Memphis.

We believe that the language that was presented was too restrictive or too prescriptive, Tipton said during a June 13 floor discussion.

Other commissioners disagreed and spoke against the overtures committees recommendation to approve the amended overture.

Alabama commissioner John Alexander expressed concern about the PCA following in the footsteps of its conservative evangelical counterpart, the Nashville-based Southern Baptist Convention, if the Presbyterian denomination opts for a less firm stance on this prevention measure.

At the same time as the PCA General Assembly, the Nashville-based SBC gathered in Indianapolis for its annual meeting in which it discussed long-term needs for preventing and responding to abuse amid the expiration of two-year-long task force-led effort to study and implement reform.

We have the opportunity to avoid the humiliation another denomination is experiencing right now, Alexander said during the June 13 floor debate at the PCA General Assembly.

Advocate and nonprofit leader Ann Maree Goudzwaard, who was an advisor to the DASA committee in the PCA, said the absence of a background check requirement places the onus on abuse victims.

They will also need to provide for their own protection from said abuse, Goudzwaard said in a statement, responding to the assemblys decision on the background check overture. Vulnerable individuals should be able to walk the halls of PCA churches, gatherings, and events without fear.

Also, an overture encouraging churches and presbyteries to partner with third party experts in instances of alleged abuse failed to pass the overtures subcommittee, a rejection the full assembly didnt reverse.

More on SBC meeting and abuse reform: Southern Baptists confront future change in wake of uncertainty and division

Liam Adams covers religion for The Tennessean. Reach him at ladams@tennessean.com or on Twitter @liamsadams.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: PCA abuse reform: Legislative proposals fail again
Two cyclists were hit by an accused drunk driver near Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport on Monday.

The collision occurred near the intersection of North Airfield Drive and Freeport Parkway in Irving. It was captured on video posted to X.

In the video, a white 2020 Subaru Forester can be seen quickly approaching the cyclists from behind, then colliding with two of them. The cyclists fell onto the road, and the car swerved and stopped briefly.

The driver then moved forward, running over one of the cyclists in the road with its front and back wheels before driving off.

The driver was identified as Benjamin Hylander, 31, of Fort Worth, according to DFW airport police. His job was listed as working for American Airlines cargo team.

The police found the group of cyclists around 6 p.m. on Monday. According to police reports, some of the cyclists followed Hylanders car to a nearby Shell gas station, where they told him to return to the accident.

While the cyclist he had hit was being treated by paramedics, Hylander ran to the scene and shouted, Im sorry, police said. He attempted to speak to an injured cyclist but was pulled away by officers.

The victims were identified as Thomas Geppert, 69, and Deborah Eads, 65, both of Grapevine.

Gepperts injury was listed as a severe laceration and he was hospitalized at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Grapevine on Monday night.

Eads injuries were also listed as severe laceration but were treated by paramedics at the scene and did not require hospitalization.

Hylander told police he had drunk beer in Grapevine an hour earlier. The amount he said he drank changed as police were interviewing him, they said.

Hylander was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Results of a breathalyzer test showed his blood alcohol concentration was over 0.15, the minimum threshold for a second degree misdemeanor DWI charge.

While searching Hylanders car, police found six empty cans of Voodoo Ranger beer in a backpack behind the passenger seat. The car was towed and is being held for evidence.

Hylander is charged with two counts of intoxication assault with a vehicle, one count of accident involving injury and one count of driving while intoxicated. He is in custody at the Tarrant County Corrections Center.
More than a year after the Los Angeles Unified School District rolled out an anonymous reporting app in an effort to make its campuses safer, advocacy groups are suing the district for creating a culture of mass suspicion.

The Los Angeles Schools Anonymous Reporting app, also known as LASAR, was unveiled in March 2023 and allows anyone to anonymously report nonemergencies and suspicious activity to the Los Angeles School Police Department. L.A. schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho has called the app critically important for public safety.

But members of the Stop LAPD Spying Coalition and Students Deserve, a youth-led organization promoting investment in Black students, allege the app is leading to the disproportionate targeting of minorities and disabled people as well as an increased police presence on campus.

Information released by the school district  the nation's second-largest with more than 500,000 students  showed 227 reports were made on LASAR during its first three months in action last year. Its unclear how many of those reports resulted in an officer being dispatched to a campus.

The organizers behind the lawsuit said they filed a public records request with L.A. Unified in September to get more information, including the number of reports filed and the content and type of each report. Theyre now suing for a response to that request, said Stop LAPD Spying Coalition organizer Matyos Kidane.

Helen Ho, a high school junior, addresses Los Angeles Unified School District officials to express support for the Stop LAPD Spying campaign on June 18, 2024. (Michael Blackshire / Los Angeles Times)

We're trying to get records from this lawsuit to better understand what the harms will be, Kidane said. But our long-term goal is to discontinue this app.

Read more: Graffiti, vaping, sextortion, drugs: A new school app can report school safety issues

LAUSD declined to comment, citing pending litigation.

The app includes report categories such as vandalism and mental health crises, and is open to the public  not just LAUSD students or employees.

The app aims to increase community focused public safety in and around schools, an LAUSD report said . Every LASAR report is sent to the Los Angeles School Police Department, where an officer will triage the incident and determine the necessary resource to dispatch, the report said.

LASAR allows a user to submit photos or videos and tracks where incidents were reported.

Kidane raised concerns about how the app developer, Kokomo 24/7, collects and uses student data. The company did not respond to a request for comment.

Apple's App Store tells LASAR users that their "data is not collected."

The developer created LASAR, along with another public safety app that allows LAUSD staff to contact 911, with funding from a $123,000 federal grant.

Kidane compared the app to an LAPD program called iWatch that encouraged community surveillance through anonymous reporting. Audits found that iWatch reports disproportionately affected people of color.

This app embodies behavioral surveillance, Kidane said at a news conference Tuesday. Behavioral surveillance is always a proxy for racial profiling.

Joseph Williams, director of Students Deserve, said the school district needs a community-based approach to public safety, not behavioral surveillance and more police officers.

The Board of Education meeting where LASAR was first showcased in 2023 drew demonstrators calling for the elimination of the Los Angeles School Police Department. Many of those against the app have said they would like to see fewer police officers on campuses in general.

Behavioral surveillance targets racial and ethnic minorities as well as neurodivergent students, said Vanessa Ramos, an advisor with Disability Rights California and an LAUSD parent. Shes worried that harmless behaviors will be seen as threats and reported to the police, she said Tuesday.

Characteristics of a disability can be mischaracterized and misinterpreted, Ramos said. Someone could sound the alarm using this app and then you have the police involved.

Seventeen community organizations have signed a Stop LAPD Spying open letter condemning LASAR. They include Disability Rights California and the ACLU of Southern California.

LAUSD officials need to find public safety solutions that don't involve surveillance and armed officers, one teacher said at the news conference.

We have police on every corner, said Dr. Maya Angelou Community High School teacher Rigoberto Gandara. If policing was the solution to public safety, we would already be safe.

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.
Activists spray Stonehenge in orange paint, demand end of fossil fuel use

London  Environmental activists sprayed several of the ancient stones of Britain's iconic Stonehenge site with an orange substance Wednesday, demanding that the next U.K. government  set to be chosen in a national election on July 5  "sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030," the protest group Just Stop Oil said.

A video released by the group showed two activists running toward the prehistoric stones of the UNESCO World Heritage Site with what looked like fire extinguishers and then spraying them with what the group said was "orange paint powder."

Just Stop Oil said the activists had "decorated" the stones to call attention to the British government's "failure to commit to defending our communities."

Bystanders intervened to try to stop the activists, and the Wiltshire Police later said two people had been arrested, "on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument."

 BREAKING: Just Stop Oil Spray Stonehenge Orange



 2 people took action the day before Summer Solstice, demanding the incoming government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030.



 Help us take megalithic action  https://t.co/R20S8YQD1j pic.twitter.com/ufzO8ZiDWu  Just Stop Oil (@JustStop_Oil) June 19, 2024

"Just Stop Oil supporters, along with citizens from Austria, Canada, Norway, the Netherlands and Switzerland will join in resistance this summer, if their own Governments do not take meaningful action," a spokesperson for the group said in a statement.

The organization that manages the Stonehenge site, English Heritage, told CBS News the incident was "extremely upsetting and our curators are investigating the extent of the damage," but that the monument remained open to the public.

The protest came one day before the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, when crowds traditionally gather at Stonehenge to celebrate and watch the rising sun appear through the ancient stones.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the Conservative party incumbent who opinion polls show far behind his chief rival just weeks before the election, issued a short response to the protest Wednesday, calling Just Stop Oil "a disgrace."

As the country's leader, Sunak has pushed back plans to impose a ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles from 2030 to 2035, and pledged that if he's reelected, he will impose no new energy efficiency rules on landlords or homeowners in the U.K.

"Stonehenge at solstice is all about celebrating the natural world  but look at the state it's in! We all have a right to live a life free from suffering, but continued burning of oil, coal and gas is leading to death and suffering on an unparalleled scale," Just Stop Oil said. "It's time for us to think about what our civilization will leave behind  what is our legacy? Standing inert for generations works well for stones  not climate policy."

The group has staged a series of protests over the last year, spraying famous works of art with a similar orange substance and even blocking traffic on the major M-25 highway that circles London.

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Over the past few weeks, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, has been losing his importance to the British royal family. After his move in 2020 with his wife Meghan Markle to America, where they now live with their children, Prince Archie, 4, and Princess Lilibeth, 2, and the subsequent publication of his controversial autobiography, The Spare, he has visited his family less and less and is now almost considered a prince in exile.

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He is often forgotten about when it comes to the royal family, and this has come to be seen as a humiliation, of which there have been three since the beginning of May. Although it was previously known that these situations occurred at the Duke's request, the Mirror writes that royal expert Emily Andrews suggests that the reason is his relatives who are trying to avoid him.

1. Unable to meet his father during a trip to the UK

In early May, Prince Harry returned to his homeland for the first time since February, but not to meet with King Charles III, who is ill with cancer. It is reported that the ruler could not free up his schedule to meet with his youngest son, who moved to the United States and abdicated his royal duties. The prince's visit is connected to the tenth anniversary of the Invictus Games.

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They were both in London, but their paths never crossed. Later, royal experts speculated that King Charles III had invited Prince Harry to stay at the royal residence during his visit, but he declined the offer due to "concerns about security guarantees."

2. Not invited to the Trooping the Color parade

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were not present at the long-awaited Trooping the Color parade, where Kate Middleton, who had disappeared from the public for six months due to cancer treatment, appeared. However, it seems that they were not expected, because all the attention was focused on the Princess of Wales.

At the time, the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, decided to draw attention to herself a few hours before the parade. She sent her friends to jam from her craft factory. Probably, she wanted to show that she and her younger son Charles III, Prince Harry, were not invited to the year's celebration, so she launched a PR campaign for her new product brand American Riviera Orchard shortly before the important date in the UK.

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3. Refusal to attend the "wedding of the year"

Prince Harry declined the invitation to the wedding of his old friend, the Duke of Westminster Hugh Grovenor, and his fiancee Olivia Hanson, which took place on June 7 in London. It is known that he spoke with the groom and they concluded that it would be better to avoid the media spotlight and possible conflicts.

Since the celebration will take place in the UK, Harry would have to fly home from the US. He is deliberately avoiding this after the palace refused to fund his security and evicted the prince from Frogmore Cottage, which the late Queen gave him after the wedding in 2018.

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"For Prince Harry, it's been humiliation after humiliation. He broke so many bonds of trust with so many people that it's hard to see him ever again at a secular wedding or Trooping the Color," explained expert Emily Andrews.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
ADAMS COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Three police officers from Adams County were honored for their heroic actions in subduing a man wielding a knife last year.

The three officers from Eastern Adams Regional Police: Patrolman Christan Norris, Patrolman Dishong and Sergeant Cuffley, were commended on being able to handle a dangerous situation with minimal force, Eastern Adams Regional Police said in a Facebook Post Wednesday. No one was injured in the incident.

The officers are commended on their actions with being able to defuse a hostile situation with the minimal force necessary to affect the arrest and bring the situation under control, the post says.

Photo from Eastern Adams Regional Police Facebook

Photo from Eastern Adams Regional Police Facebook

Photo from Eastern Adams Regional Police Facebook

Photo from Eastern Adams Regional Police Facebook

Patrolman Christan Norris and Patrolman Dishong were called for a theft in progress at the 200 block of West High Street in New Oxford just before 10 p.m. on May 30, 2023, the police department wrote in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

Adams County SPCA rescues animals being used for bestiality from trailer towed by bus

Both officers found Cutler Keene near the area who was reluctant to give his ID to police. Officers later learned his name and confirmed he had warrants out of Maryland and York County, the post reads.

Keene then backed away from the officers after he had heard he was wanted and charged Patrolman Norris with a knife, according to the police department. Norris drew his service weapon, getting Keene to drop the knife and back away from the officer. Police say Keene then charged at Norris again, who then used his taser to no effect.

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Police say Keene then tried to run away but Sergeant Cuffley just arrived to assist and tased Keene, this time bringing him down. Keene was then taken to Adams County Prison and is facing charges including aggravated assault  fear of imminent serious bodily injury for a designated individual.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Photo illustration by Getty Images.

Montana health officials have started a voucher system to help people with substance use disorders move into transitional housing as they rebuild their lives. But those who run the clinical houses said the new money isnt enough to fix a financial hole after a prior state revamp.

Residential treatment facilities are usually nondescript homes tucked into neighborhoods. The states lowest-intensity homes can provide people with alcohol and drug addiction leaving inpatient care a bridge to independent living. Theyre the final option of four tiers of clinical housing and aim to offer residents stability amid daily stressors.

But these particular houses have been disappearing  down to 10 sites today from 14 in 2022. That was the year the state started paying providers a blanket rate for their services through Medicaid, the state-federal program for people with low incomes and disabilities. At the same time, the state increased the homes staffing requirements.

State health department officials lauded the 2022 change as an expansion in access to care, saying it increased the houses pay and matched the cost to operate. But providers warned at the time that it could backfire because the rates werent high enough to cover the new staffing rules.

Terri Russell, who runs John Scott Hannon House, a treatment home in Helena, said it has been hard to break even since, and shes watched other sites close under financial pressure.

Its the hardest thing in the world to watch a person leave treatment and go back down to the homeless shelter, or go on the street, Russell said.

The new voucher program could help fill in some of the gap, Russell said. Approved by the state in April, it pays low-intensity treatment residences to house uninsured people as they sign up for Medicaid or other health coverage. The idea is to reduce barriers to care for vulnerable patients at a key point in their recovery. But the money is capped at $35 a day, with a $1,000 limit per resident a year.

Its like it was somebodys idea for a band-aid, said Demetrius Fassas, who runs Butte Spirit Homes, which has two eight-bed facilities.

He said the payments fall well below the cost of providing care. And, because of the vouchers cap, the aid could run out weeks before someone knows whether they qualify for Medicaid coverage.

Low-intensity programs vary in how long patients stay; it could be a few months or more than a year. Fassas said when things go as intended, clients find stable jobs. That success can lead to residents earning too much money to qualify for Medicaid but not enough to afford the full cost of care.

Providers have said funding issues are widespread for substance use disorder programs but that shortfalls especially hit these low-intensity homes. The tension in Montana mirrors challenges elsewhere around how to fund transitional treatment so that patients dont fall off a cliff in their recovery because care is unavailable.

As of 2022, at least 33 states were using money from Medicaid to help run residential treatment programs, KFF found. Federal rules prohibit Medicaid dollars from going to room and board at transitional homes, though states can chip in their own money. In North Dakota, for example, lawmakers set aside state funds for a voucher program that addresses treatment barriers, which include the cost of room and board.

Montana once was among the states that let providers seek help covering room and board costs for its poorer residents. The money came from federal grants the state manages for addiction treatment and prevention.

But those room and board grants stopped when Montanas health department shifted to higher, bundled Medicaid rates in 2022. According to a state report last year, reducing the block grants to the low-intensity homes allowed officials to put that money toward other prevention priorities.

The new rules the state added at the same time brought the residential facilities up to American Society of Addiction Medicine standards. That included having on-site clinical services, a clinical director for each home, and an employee working anytime a resident was in the home, including night shifts.

Fassas, of Butte Spirit Homes, called the rules bittersweet. They increased the quality of care. But, Fassas said, he had to hire six additional workers to comply with the rules and the company now runs at a loss if he doesnt find additional grants.

Jon Ebelt, a spokesperson with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, said the new rates, $143 a day per Medicaid resident, were developed by a state-paid contractor as part of Montanas effort to match the cost of care.

Ebelt said administrative costs were factored into the states Medicaid rate, and that traditional room and board expenses typically fall into that category.

Low-intensity homes rates havent increased since they went into place in 2022.

Malcolm Horn, chief behavioral health officer for the Rimrock Foundation, said the facilities need more help in covering expenses like the mortgage, repairs to the home, or feeding residents.

The Rimrock Foundation, which is based in Billings, is one of Montanas largest mental health providers. Horn said after the new rules were implemented, Rimrock converted one of its two low-intensity homes for women with children into high-intensity housing, which pays more. The switch displaced families in the low-intensity program.

We couldnt actually sustain having both those houses, Horn said.

Montana officials set aside $300,000 for the voucher program and estimated that money would help cover initial housing for 329 people in 2024.

Terri Todd, who runs the nonprofit Gratitude in Action in Billings for people in recovery, advocated for the program during the 2023 legislative session. She said the goal had been to follow North Dakotas model to help cover addiction care for people facing barriers. But Montana lawmakers scaled that back, which Todd attributed to concerns about cost.

Todd said that while what survived the legislature is less than what she had hoped for, the voucher program is still a start in addressing barriers to care.

State Rep. Mike Yakawich, the Republican who proposed the program, said it was initially so broad, he learned, it overlapped with some existing efforts. But he said state staffers told him the low-intensity group homes room and board costs were an area that could use more funding.

Yakawich said securing any money felt like a win in a funding tug-of-war. More help to stabilize the states mental health system is coming.

Money for the vouchers is coming out of Republican Gov. Greg Gianfortes HEART Fund initiative, which is due to invest about $25 million a year toward behavioral health programs. Separately, state officials recently announced that theyre creating grants to increase Montanas bed capacity across residential facilities, including for substance use treatment providers. That money could go toward reopening closed facilities.

But Yakawich said even that infusion of money wont provide enough to go around.

Everybody wants a chunk of the pie, and not everyones going to get it, he said.

The voucher program is scheduled to expire in three years, Yakawich said. By then, he said, maybe he can persuade lawmakers to renew the program  with more money.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

The post Addiction treatment homes say Montanas funding fixes dont go far enough appeared first on Daily Montanan.
A political operative kicked off the sixth week of Sen. Bob Menendezs federal bribery trial in Manhattan by ripping back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes duplicity and media manipulation that observers have long suspected drives politics in New Jersey.

Michael Soliman was state director of Menendezs Senate office for seven years, ran his 2012 re-election campaign, and served on and off as his political adviser until last fall.

Under questioning by prosecutor Daniel Richenthal, Soliman told jurors that he planted a false story in the press, coached Menendez on how to lie to people seeking political appointments, and vetted candidates for the senator with optics always driving his advice and actions.

It was my job to protect the senator, so I just cared about his optics, said Soliman, a partner at Mercury Public Affairs.

Tuesdays questioning focused on just one part of the wide-ranging corruption scheme that has kept New Jerseys senior senator and co-defendants Fred Daibes and Wael Hana in court almost daily since mid-May  the senators alleged attempt to squash the U.S. Attorneys bank fraud prosecution of his friend Daibes, an Edgewater real estate developer and bank founder. Prosecutors say Daibes paid Menendez in cash and gold bars for his influence.

United States Senator, Bob Menendez (center), arrives at Daniel Patrick Moynihan U.S. Courthouse where he will be on trial for bribery and corruption charges. The jury selection for the trial is expected to start today, Monday, May 13, 2024.

U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger testified last week that Menendez promised in 2020 to recommend him as New Jerseys top federal prosecutor. But the senator dropped him and chose another candidate, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, after Sellinger told Menendez that if he became U.S. attorney, hed have to alert his new bosses that he once handled a case in which Daibes was an adverse party, a potential conflict of interest warranting his recusal.

Tuesday, Soliman spilled all sorts of secrets about the power of politics in who snags the top jobs in New Jersey. After Menendez asked him to vet Suarez, Soliman reported his findings in a text to the senator: She is a Stack person but also viewed as an ally to Donald, since she used to work at his firm. Also Sacco signed off on her because she agreed to take on Ralph Lamparellos wife as her top aide.

Stack is state Sen. Brian Stack; Donald is attorney Donald Scarinci, a childhood friend of Menendez; Sacco is former state Sen. Nicholas Sacco; and Ralph Lamparello is a past president of the New Jersey State Bar Association and a powerful Hudson County insider.

Suarezs candidacy drew media scrutiny quickly, largely focused on her controversial decision not to prosecute a campaign staffer for Gov. Phil Murphy who had been accused of rape. When a Star-Ledger editor reached out to Soliman with questions critical of Suarezs candidacy, Soliman alerted Menendez, texting him that Suarezs lawyer planned to send a letter threatening the outlet, which published a column anyway.

When New Jersey Globe editor David Wildstein told Soliman he planned to do a story on the U.S. attorney candidates, Soliman said he and Menendez had several concerns. They worried Suarez would be seen as a diversity hire, a hot button issue they wanted to avoid before the election, Soliman testified. And they wanted to divert attention from Suarez, whose negative publicity they worried could taint Menendez, he added.

Please try and delay the story, the senator urged Soliman in a text sent on the encrypted app Signal.

Wildstein agreed to wait, Soliman said, but asked again the next month, after then-U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenitos resignation left the job open. Soliman told jurors he gave Wildstein a list of candidates he said Menendez was considering for the job, including Jamel Semper, a prominent attorney the Black clergy subsequently championed and who later became a federal judge.

But the story that Menendez and Sen. Cory Booker were eyeing more than two candidates was wholly false, Soliman testified.

Special report: Jose Uribe flipped. Here's why he bribed Bob Menendez with a new Mercedes

Menendez never considered recommending anyone but Sellinger and then Suarez for the job, even though the White House requested at least three candidates, Soliman said.

When the candidates followed up with Menendez to inquire about their chances, Soliman told jurors that he and the senator strategized what lies would best appease them  and blamed the White House for not picking them.

When the negative publicity dogging Suarez did not die down, Menendez began plotting a Plan B, he wrote in a text to Soliman that was presented to jurors.

About that time, Sellinger and Soliman talked again, Soliman testified.

Sellinger told Soliman hed talked to his new bosses and didnt have to recuse himself, Soliman said. That contradicts what Sellinger testified last Wednesday.

After the White House dropped Suarez as a potential U.S. attorney, Menendez again recommended Sellinger, who got the job  and told his bosses on his first day of potential conflicts in four cases. They ordered him recused from three, including Daibes.

Menendez was confused and asked Soliman to find out why Sellinger had been recused from Daibes case after supposedly telling Soliman that he wouldnt be recused, Soliman testified. But Soliman told jurors he never asked Sellinger about Daibes when the men met for lunch. Thats because Sellinger warned him hed have to report Soliman to the Department of Justice if he inquired about any ongoing criminal matters, Soliman testified.

Testimony is expected to continue Thursday morning in Manhattan, with an FBI agent scheduled to share more evidence. Prosecutors expect to wrap up their case by next Tuesday, and defense attorneys told Judge Sidney H. Stein they expect to take up to two weeks to present their side of the case.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct the year Michael Soliman referenced in running Sen. Bob Menendez's re-election campaign.

This story was originally published by the New Jersey Monitor, for which Dana DeFilippo is a staff writer. The New Jersey Monitor is part of States Newsroom, the nations largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bob Menendez trial: Michael Soliman testifies on plans to bully press
Advocates call for Travis County to implement a plan for counsel at first appearance

Advocates call for Travis County to implement a plan for counsel at first appearance

AUSTIN (KXAN)  A group of advocates gathered at the Travis County Administration Building on Tuesday afternoon, demanding legal representation for pre-trial detainees at their first court appearance in Travis County.

Travis County said it supports the idea of this prospect  which is called counsel at first appearance or CAFA  but so far, staffing, infrastructure and procedural challenges have hindered its implementation.

Travis County test runs counsel at first appearance

Among the group Tuesday were representatives from Grassroots Leadership, Foundation for the Austin Sanctuary Network, VOCAL Texas, Austin Area Urban League, Advocates for Social Justice Reform, Austin Justice Coalition and Texas Civil Rights Project. All speakers demanded a similar goal: full implementation of CAFA.

CAFA allows a defendant to have legal representation during their initial court appearance after being charged with a crime. The demand for CAFA follows a class action lawsuit filed by the ACLU against Travis County in April in which the county is accused of allegedly denying detainees the right to legal counsel.

Travis County has conducted a handful of CAFA test shifts starting in late April that provided the space and resources for these arrestees to have the chance to meet with a lawyer before facing a judge. Eight shifts are scheduled for June that are open for public viewing.

A county spokesperson previously said the pilot was not a result of the lawsuit and had been in the works for a while.

JJ Ramirez  an organizer of VOCAL Texas  spoke of his experience with incarceration and the availability of legal representation on Tuesday alongside CAFA advocates.

I was in a massive room, like 50 people and one magistrate judge, and they asked me, Will I get my own attorney?' Ramirez said. And I asked him, How do I know if I can afford that? And the judge took a pause, looked at me, and said, Just pick.'

Tom Downing  a member of Advocates for Social Justice Reform  called on Travis County to host a public briefing detailing a plan of action for full implementation of council at first appearance for all people detained in Travis County.

It will require an investment to make this happen, attorneys staff courtrooms, but it will also result in reduced expense, Downing said. Chances for jail facilities, Child Protective Services, homeless shelters and workers lost to unnecessary incarceration. But the most important investment will be in treating our neighbors as human beings who are always worthy of second chances.

Bob Batlan  a member of Advocates for Social Justice Reform  appeared critical of Travis Countys implementation efforts. He said that they have only conducted 10 test shifts out of the 1090 magistration shifts a year in Travis County.

There seems to be a trend that the county is trying to figure out how to best manage it from their own perspective, Batlan said. Were not getting the perspective of the people that are incarcerated, that are losing their jobs and losing their families before they have been adjudicated guilty or innocent.

The next scheduled CAFA test shift will be on June 21 from 2-10 p.m. in the Auxiliary Courtroom, Room #1.200 on the first floor of the Blackwell-Thurman Criminal Justice Center.

Brianna Hollis contributed to this story.

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Gov. Wes Moore, left, gives a handshake to Shiloh Jordan on June 17 inside the governor's reception room in Annapolis. Attorney General Anthony Brown looks on. Photo by William J. Ford.

Advocates are celebrating Gov. Wes Moores pardoning of tens thousands of cannabis possession convictions as a powerful symbolic gesture, but many see the pardons as just a first step in improving the lives of those still struggling with the fallout of minor criminal offenses.

The pardon is only one piece of the puzzle of that equity issue, said Heather Warnken, executive director for Criminal Justice Reform at the University of Baltimore School of Law.

A move like this  from our elected officials to acknowledge systemic harm and injustices and proactively rectify them, its definitely a step forward, she said.

Moore on Monday issued pardons for more than 150,000 convictions for minor possession of marijuana, and another 18,000 misdemeanor convictions for possession of drug paraphernalia. The pardons come more than a year after voters made it legal for Marylanders age 21 and over to possess marijuana for personal use.

But many Marylanders still had possession convictions from before the law changed, a charge that Black residents are twice as likely to face as others, according to state data. A racial equity impact note for the 2022 referendum that ultimately legalized recreational cannabis use noted Black people accounted for 59% of those arrested for marijuana possession in 2020, compared to about 39% for white people.

Those convictions often result in hardships in getting a job, finding affordable housing and other economic challenges. Criminal justice advocates say the pardons are a step in the right direction  but just the first step.

It is a powerful symbolic gesture, said Adrian Rocha, policy manager at the Last Prisoner Project.

For far too long, weve seen states really signal the potential economic benefit of a legalization campaign without really acknowledging the long and pernicious history of the war on drugs. And particularly, the role that cannabis played as a tool to incarcerate individuals of color, Rocha said.

I think what we saw was a real commitment to justice from Gov. Moore. And as he said in his statement this is the first step  I dont think its the last, he added.

Advocates: Moore can do more

Criminal justice reform advocates say that Maryland still has a ways to go.

Warnken said that she thinks the governor should use his clemency power for other low-level convictions, among other efforts.

Heather Warnken, executive director at the Center for Criminal Justice Reform at the University of Baltimore School of Law. Photo by William J. Ford.

I think its a misconception that a misdemeanor conviction, as opposed to a felony conviction, in a record doesnt erect enormous barriers to opportunities, she said. The collateral consequences of a conviction on someones life, its almost immeasurable  from employment to housing to education, public benefits, professional licensure, the list goes on.

And we really take Gov. Moore at his word that this is only phase one, Warnken said. Were hoping that the Moore administration continues pushing forward in both their unique exercise of executive clemency power, but also work with us out in the field who are addressing it from different angles.

Administration officials said those convicted can check online at the Maryland Judiciary case search to see if they have been pardoned or visit a local courthouse to verify their case status.

That said, a pardon is different from an expungement, which is when the conviction is cleared from someones record.

We know that the pardon does not mean that the record is totally expunged  its still on the record technically, said Christopher Dews, assistant vice president of a public affairs firm called Cornerstone. He was speaking on behalf of Out for Justice, a nonprofit that works with formerly incarcerated individuals in Baltimore to help them find employment and transition back into society.

Maryland has a very far way to go when it comes to having access to expungement, Dews said.

He said that the process for receiving an expungment is simple, but can be difficult to navigate for average Marylanders.

You get a form, you fill it out, and then you submit it, Dews said. Normally, because its a bunch of legal jargon, you have to have an attorney or a lawyer or somebody to sign off on it  and then the court will have to approve the expungment.

He said that the state attorney generals office or any victim can object to an expungment request, but with marijuana charges there shouldnt be any victims.

He said that Out for Justice proposes a simple solution: Pardons should prompt an automatic expungement of the conviction.

The Anne Arundel County Circuit Courthouse in Annapolis. Photo by Bryan P. Sears.

Dews compared it to the expungement that happens automatically when a defendant is acquitted or charges their case is dismissed.

The person doesnt have to file a petition, doesnt have to do any of that stuff. But, its officially gone, Dews said. That same process should be applied to charges that have been pardoned by the governor. That would be a great first step for the governor to take on.

Out for Justice would also like to see the General Assembly tackle something called the unit rule, which can create barriers in expunging a charge.

Under Marylands expungement law, the unit rule states that only cases can be expunged, not charges, the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service wrote in a recap of the 2024 legislative session.

In other words, a person cannot expunge individual charges from a case, even if they were not found guilty, when that same case includes an ineligible charge. An exception now exists for cannabis charges, but the unit rule still prevents many people from expunging charges, even in the event of a not-guilty verdict, the recap said.

Dews said Mondays mass pardons are a huge first step and he gives credit to the Moore administration for even taking a stance on understanding the damage that having a criminal record can have on Marylanders.

Yanet Amanuel, public policy director with the American Civil Liberties Union of Maryland, said the governors next step should be pardons for those who have been convicted of intent to distribute cannabis.

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Were hoping that the legislature prioritizes this moving forward, is focusing on the  marijuana possession with intention to distribute, Amanuel said. Thats particularly important because, post-decriminalization, we start to see an uptick  of people being charged with intent to distribute.

Its really critical when we talk about actually repairing the harms done from the war on drugs that its not just past tense. Its also moving forward, and in order to do that that includes removing these criminal penalties, she said.

When were talking about convictions that really are still creating barriers for people or depriving people of opportunities, its some of these other convictions that we still need to work on, Amanuel said.

The post Advocates welcome cannabis pardons, but urge Moore to continue justice reform efforts appeared first on Maryland Matters.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WKRG)  Africanized Honeybees have been detected in Alabama, according to the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.

An ADAI news release said they found feral swarms in Jackson and St. Clair Counties kept by local beekeepers and were ultimately euthanized to protect Alabama honeybees.

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Our goal is to protect both our residents and the health of our local bee populations, ADAI Commissioner Rick Pate said. We are working diligently to monitor the situation and taking necessary actions to prevent the spread of these aggressive bees.

ADAI said it is setting up traps within a 5-mile radius of where the swarms were detected to capture and identify any other Africanized Honeybees.

ADAI officials are also reaching out to local beekeepers and asking them to report any suspicious bee activity.

ADAI will be collecting samples as needed to ensure the thorough monitoring of the situation, the release said.

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According to ADAI, several behavioral differences exist between Africanized Honeybees and European Honeybees. However, neither type will indiscriminately attack humans or animals as stinging is a defense behavior to protect young bees and their food supply.

Differences between African Honeybees and Europeans Honeybees, according to ADAI:

AHB are more defensive than EHB.

AHB are more easily disturbed and respond in greater numbers than EHB.

AHB may swarm as often as every six weeks, while EHB generally only swarm once a year.

AHB will nest in any available cavity or in the open. Nest sites include, water meter boxes, metal utility poles, cement blocks, junk piles, and house eaves. Other potential nesting sites include overturned flowerpots, old tires, mobile home skirts and abandoned structures. Holes in the ground and tree limbs, mailboxes, even an empty soda pop could be viewed as home to the AHB.

EHB nest in larger cavities above ground and sometimes in the open. EHB do not nest in holes in the ground. Nest sites include, a beekeepers hive, hollow trees, cavities in walls and occasionally on a tree limb.

AHB will pursue a threat for over a mile where EHB will only pursue a threat for a few hundred yards.

Anyone who believes they have found an Africanized Honeybee colony can contact the ADAI Apiary Protection Unit at 334-240-7228 or 334-240-7172. For more information, click here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.
House Minority Assistant Whip Sandra Hollins, D-Salt Lake City, is pictured on the first day of the legislative session at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

Two years after Gov. Spencer Cox signed into law the establishment of Juneteenth as a state holiday, he called a special legislative session on June 19, an occurrence that one lawmaker is working on getting corrected.

In Utah, the celebration of whats also known as Emancipation Day is observed on the immediately preceding Monday if June 19 falls on a weekday or the following Monday if the holiday is on a Saturday or Sunday. That has been official since 2022, when the state Legislature passed HB238, sponsored by Rep. Sandra Hollins, D-Salt Lake City.

Since the bills approval, more Utahns have become aware of what Juneteenth commemorates, Hollins said. She had designated an observed holiday, hoping to get a three-day weekend not knowing it was going to cause some confusion.

I take full ownership of that, and I am in the process of writing legislation so we can align with the federal government, Hollins said about the June 19 special session. And so next year, we will not have this issue.

Hollins is planning on introducing a bill titled State Holiday Modifications in the 2025 General Session, so Juneteenth is commemorated on June 19.

I can understand how this happened, but it wont stop us from the celebrations that will be taking place, she added.

Jeanetta Williams, longtime president of the NAACP Salt Lake Branch and a candidate for the House District 26 seat, called the holiday intersection with the special session a political stunt.

To me, its a slap in the face saying that we dont care, and we dont care about diversity in our community, Williams said.

She added that the NAACP Salt Lake Branch and other organizations were only consulted about HB261, a law that restricts diversity, equity and inclusion programs in Utah public entities, on the first day of the legislative session.

But (Cox) made his mind up to support that particular bill, and he did, Williams said. And he signed it into law almost immediately after it passed.

In Williams view, the special session  thats set to discuss Utahs response to new Title IX regulations and amendments to a bill that extended the life of the coal-fueled Intermountain Power Plant  could have been scheduled in March, April or May to avoid coinciding with the Juneteenth holiday.

Juneteenth celebrations

Juneteenth marks the day in which enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, which remained under Confederate control, received the news of the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation, two and a half years after the signing of the document.

The announcement prompted big celebrations, later becoming a tradition among African American communities.

Here in the state of Utah, we have always had Juneteenth. Weve had celebrations here since the 80s, Hollins said. Adding the date to the states holiday calendar was a way to bring Utah in line with the federal government, which established it as a national holiday in 2021.

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President Joe Biden said in the proclamation announcement implementing the holiday that the U.S. needed to commit to eradicating systemic racism. He added that as the country emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic we must recognize that Black Americans, among other people of color, have shouldered a disproportionate burden of loss  while also carrying us through disproportionately as essential workers and health care providers on the front lines of the crisis.

For Hollins, in 2024, Utahs Black community faces the same challenges that everyone else faces in the state; such as economic difficulties, housing affordability and low home ownership rates.

Of course, we still have our challenges around racism that still exists here in the state of Utah, but its not something that is stopping us. Were still moving forward in this state, and being a part of this state, Hollins said.

However, in the last few years, the state representative said she has noticed some positive changes as well, such as Utah becoming home for more Black business owners.

Williams spent Tuesday, the day before the holiday, organizing a free expungement clinic with Clean Slate Utah, the S.J. Quinney College Of Laws Pro Bono Initiative and Rasa Legal at the Justice Center in honor of Juneteenth. Participants had access to free records screenings, volunteer attorneys and fee assistance for those who qualified.

(Juneteenth is) what individuals or organizations or groups want to make of it. Some have more of a jubilee, music and dancing. Some small businesses can showcase or have a booth about their businesses. But in the NAACP Salt Lake Branch, we chose to do this expungement clinic, she said.

The holiday has always been visible in the African American community in the Salt Lake Valley, Williams added, with flag raising events and other community activities organized by different municipalities.

It just gives everybody an opportunity to come together, to even learn more about exactly what Juneteenth is and other things, community things that people can be able to get involved within the community, Williams said.

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The post Ahead of June 19 special session, lawmaker hopes Utah celebrates future Juneteenths on the day appeared first on Utah News Dispatch.
Ukrainian air defense shot down 19 of the 21 Shahed-type attack drones launched by Russia overnight on June 19, Ukraine's Air Force reported.

Russia reportedly launched the drones from Prymorsko-Akhtarsk in Russia's Krasnodar Krai and occupied Crimea.

Ukraine intercepted the drones over Kherson, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, Khmelnytskyi, and Lviv oblasts. Mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian Air Force were involved in repelling the air attacks.

Earlier in the night, the drones targeted the regions over western Ukraine.

In the Malehiv neighborhood of the city of Lviv, a 70-year-old man was hospitalized as a result of falling drone debris around 4 a.m. local time. A multi-story building and an office building were damaged in the drone attacks, Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi reported on Telegram.

Drone attacks are a daily occurrence in Ukraine, affecting various regions across the country.

In recent months, Russian attacks on critical infrastructure have increasingly targeted Ukrainian energy facilities.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukrainian brigade warns of Russian attempt to capture Borova in Kharkiv Oblast





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A Southern California woman who took an American Airlines flight to Hollywood Burbank Airport found that her missing luggage had somehow landed at a Hollywood homeless encampment.

Aunny Grace's troubles began at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on May 29, when her flight was delayed and she had to sleep at the airport overnight, she told NBC Los Angeles. She ended up taking a different flight to Burbank and left without her luggage.

Five days later, the airline sent the wrong suitcase to her house, Grace told the TV station. She realized she could track her luggage using an AirTag attached to her suitcase and saw that it somehow ended up at a homeless encampment.

When I arrived, my bag had slowly made its way down to Santa Monica and Western and that is when I found my stuff, not my suitcase, but particles of my stuff in a homeless mans shopping cart, Grace told KTLA. You kind of get to a point where youre looking around the encampment and think, I dont even want my stuff back. I had toiletry bags that were dumped upside down. I had makeup bags. All the makeup was gone.

Read more: FBI tells passengers on the Alaska Airlines flight that lost a panel they might be crime victims

Grace had medicine, jewelry and bags that she had purchased from Bali ransacked from her luggage, according to NBC Los Angeles. She also noticed other stolen suitcases with American Airline tags on them.

That day I saw dozens of suitcases, brand new suitcases, name-brand suitcases strewn across Western and Sunset, Grace told KTLA. Rows and rows of suitcases, bicycles, baby strollers with airline tags on them everywhere.

Grace's friend, who had accompanied her to find her lost luggage, agreed to pay the homeless man to get her belongings back, according to ABC7. Grace said that she's seen bags left out in the open at the airport, making it easy for anyone to steal them.

"The bags that are delayed, they remove them from the carousel line, and they bring them to the office," she told the TV station. "So you have the bags in the office, and then you have the rest of them are just outside."

American Airlines said in a statement to ABC7: "We strive to ensure that our customers' checked luggage and other items arrive at their destinations on schedule and in their original condition. We are investigating what occurred here and, in the meantime, a member of our team is in contact with the customer to apologize and resolve the issue."

Grace couldn't immediately be reached for comment.

The rate of mishandled luggage on the nation's largest carriers has remained relatively steady over the past few years, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Since 2020, the rate of lost or delayed bags has ranged between 4.14 bags for every 1,000 bags loaded into a plane to 6.4 bags.





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About a hundred coins dating back to 221-354 BC were found in Israel. The treasure, which dates back almost 1700 years, was discovered during excavations in the city of Lod.

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Scientists assume that the coins were hidden in the midst of the last known Jewish uprising against Roman rule, and the discovery reveals new circumstances of those events. The details are reported by Live Science with reference to the Israel Antiquities Authority.

The 94 silver and bronze coins, minted between 221 and 354 BC, were discovered by archaeologists during excavations at the site of the recently discovered remains of a public building of the late Roman and early Byzantine period in the city of Lod (also known as Lydda), 20 km southeast of Tel Aviv. The city was renamed Diospolis during Roman rule over Israel."

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The coins were found in the foundations of a building that had been destroyed to the ground, which, according to archaeologists Shahar Krispin and Mor Viezel, who conducted the excavations, "was home to the elders of the city."

They note that after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, Lod was considered the most important Jewish center. And the extent of the destruction of the building, according to the researchers, reveals new information about the last known Jewish uprising against Roman rule, one of the centers of which was Lod.

"This building, destroyed to the very foundation, is a clear indication that the revolt was crushed by violence and brutality, and was not just a local uprising, as some previous studies have claimed. This is the only evidence so far of the scale and strength of this uprising in Lod, located in the center of the country," Krispin and Viezel of the Israel Antiquities Authority emphasized.

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As for the coins themselves, the archaeologists suggested that the unknown owners "deliberately hid them" in the building's foundation to return and retrieve the treasure when the situation calmed down.

"It's essentially an emergency treasure, that is, a treasure that people hide in anticipation of a catastrophic event," Viezel said.

Most of the coins were minted during the period when the Jews revolted against the rule of Flavius Claudius Constantius Gallus. The uprising of 351-354 BC was brutally suppressed by Rome, and such Jewish cities as Lod, Tzipori and Tiberias were destroyed by Roman troops.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!

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Alabama man wanted in connection with multiple killings seen in Morrilton, police search underway

UPDATE  5:45 PM WEDNESDAY  Officials with the Arkansas State Police say they believe Stacy Lee Drake, the man wanted in connection with killings in Oklahoma, is still in the Morrilton area.

Arkansas State Police say armed fugitive sought in Oklahoma killings still in Morrilton area

**********************************************

MORRILTON, Ark.  Police in Morrilton said they are searching for an Alabama man wanted in connection to multiple killings after he was seen at a local hotel Tuesday.

Officials with the Morrilton Police Department said the suspect, 50-year-old Stacy Drake from Birmingham, was seen on surveillance footage at a hotel in Morrilton. Officers also said that Arkansas State Police notified them that the vehicle used in the homicides was parked at the hotel.

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ASP officials said Drake is wanted in connection to three homicide cases in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation named him as a person of interest after authorities found two people dead inside of a business in Gans.

Special agents also said he has multiple other felony warrants for his arrest in multiple jurisdictions for charges including aggravated robbery, carjacking and murder.

Image of Stacy Drake provided by Arkansas State Police

Officials said that officers searched the hotel, but Drake was not found. Police said it is unknown how he left the hotel.

Pine Bluff police say husband kills wife, himself after disagreement at liquor store

Drake is described as a white man standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 185 pounds. Images provided by the police department show Drake wearing a dark colored shirt, hat and sunglasses.

Officials with the Morrilton Police Department said the suspect, 50-year-old Stacy Drake, was seen on surveillance footage at a hotel in Morrilton.

Police said Drake is believed to be armed and dangerous. Anyone who has seen Drake is asked to contact the Morrilton Police Department at 501-354-0131.

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An empty classroom at Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kale in Juneau, Alaska, on July 20, 2022. (Photo by Lisa Phu/Alaska Beacon)

A dispute between Alaskas education officials and their federal counterparts over whether the state spent pandemic relief equitably has had its first tangible consequence: the state must receive a federal OK before it can spend nearly $1 million in grants.

The United States Department of Education has put restrictions on the money in addition to labeling the state as high risk for receiving future grants because it says the state has not equitably distributed funds among its districts. State officials contest this assertion.

This disagreement has raised questions about whether Alaska schools will lose out on future grants.

Since last year, Alaska officials have pushed back against a federal warning that said the state underfunded certain school districts and failed to fully comply with requirements for spending $359 million in pandemic relief grants. The grant funds in question are from the American Recovery Plan Act, and were intended to stabilize schools after pandemic closures.

Federal officials have allowed Alaska to distribute that money. But in an update to the Alaska Board of Education and Early Development at its June meeting, state officials said the equity issue is unresolved and the department has already incurred some consequences as a result.

The restricted money is in an administrative account; the state education department needs to ask the federal government before it spends it.

Alaska Education Commissioner Deena Bishop told board members that the state used the account to pay the temporary employees who administered its grants.

The consequence is only with the administrative fees at the state level, she said at the meeting. She said the department does not have plans to spend that money.

One looming possibility that has legislators and district superintendents concerned is that the federal government could withhold future grant money from Alaska schools, or even take grant money back, but that has not yet happened.

Bishop sought to assure board members the dispute will not affect other federal grants, like the $425 million in federal grant money the state is set to receive on July 1. And she emphasized that it did not affect the pandemic relief funds.

The actual ARPA funds that were meant for school districts have already been dispersed and are already used, and theres not a problem with them, she said.

Assistant Attorney General Susan Sonneborn said that if the federal government withheld money based on the high-risk designation, the state could file an administrative appeal.

Extraordinary federal guidance

The heart of the disagreement is over a new provision to pandemic-era education grants, called maintenance of equity. The idea behind it is that the federal government would give out huge grants, so long as states made sure that they were distributed fairly.

The intent was to make sure state education funding to historically underserved groups of students remained at pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels; maintenance of equity only applies to districts that serve high needs or high poverty populations.

Austin Reid, the National Conference of State Legislatures lead federal education policy analyst, said the maintenance of equity provision is an unusual and, in some ways, extraordinary federal authority. Typically, states have authority over how they fund education. Reid briefed legislators on the provision in April.

The maintenance of equity provision said that states are not allowed to reduce the amount of funding per student to certain school districts below the amount they received in 2019, the year directly preceding the pandemic. The covered districts include schools that serve high-poverty areas or high-needs students. This is where federal officials say Alaska has run afoul of their guidance; some districts got less state money in 2022 than they did in 2019.

Alaska has a complicated per pupil funding formula that was designed to maintain equity among the states students and schools. Bishop points to that formula when she counters the federal assessment.

She said Alaskas per pupil funding formula follows the intent of the law  and if the state allocated less funding to certain districts that enrolled fewer students during the pandemic, it did so precisely because it used a formula the U.S Department of Education approved.

Reid said Alaska is not alone in that regard: Many states complex funding formulas do not align neatly with the federal maintenance of equity test, which is based only on a students income. He estimated that more than 40 states have struggled to meet the maintenance of equity requirements.

In an April presentation to the Senate Education Committee, Reid explained that there are three state education finance strategies that can cause them to not comply with the federal law: a per-student funding formula, a mechanism to equalize spending and a hold harmless provision, aimed at preventing districts from experiencing cuts in aid. Alaska employs all three strategies.

In Alaskas case, officials say it is likely those mechanisms affected total per pupil funding as many students switched to home or correspondence school during the pandemic.

For a state with an equalized per pupil funding formula, there was no way to know how to comply if simply maintaining funding and distribution in the same historical manner was insufficient, he said.

Despite this, Alaskas current dilemma is unique. Though many states have struggled with compliance, Alaska is the only state that has not resolved the issue.

Counteroffer

Federal officials say the state did not maintain equity over two years. The alleged inequity closest at hand is the 2022 fiscal year, for which they say the state owes the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District $5.48 million and Anchorage School District $6.4 million. To make up for 2023 shortfalls, federal officials say the Juneau, Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula and Fairbanks districts are owed a total of more than $5 million.

In a May letter, Bishop maintained the state did no wrong, but offered federal officials a compromise: DEED would ask the state Legislature to appropriate $327,015 for the Fairbanks North Star Borough School District. This amount is less than 2% of what the feds say all districts are owed.

20240606 DEED Alaska MOE Letter dated May 9-2

This amount represents the additional funds that would be owed to the district for FY2023 if the U.S. Department of Education were to prevail in its interpretation that MOEquity applies to Alaska notwithstanding the lack of a statewide funding cut, and also takes into account elements of Alaskas state funding formula that distort MOEquity calculations, she wrote.

State officials, including Bishop and Sonneborn, have noted that federal officials have changed the amount they say the state owes districts several times. In March, the total neared $30 million; federal officials reduced it to under $17 million. A spokesperson for U.S. DOE said that is because Alaskas education department has submitted several different versions of its equity calculations.

Bishops correspondence with federal officials has repeatedly cited court cases where states had prevailed in funding arguments. The department did not address questions about whether or not it would pursue litigation against the federal government or why only the Fairbanks district was addressed in its compromise proposal.

Legislative response

The dispute is a concern for state legislators. The Senate majority caucus included $11.89 million in the operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year to allow the state to come into compliance with the federal governments grant requirements and recover its good standing. The budget amount equals the total 2022 funding for Kenai Peninsula and Anchorage schools cited by the federal government. Alaskas education officials did not mention this funding to their federal counterparts in the May letter that offered the compromise.

It remains to be seen whether the administration of Gov. Mike Dunleavy will approve or veto the money. The budget was transferred to Dunleavys office on June 5 and he must decide whether to sign or veto it by June 28.

Senate Education Committee Chair Loki Tobin, D-Anchorage, said her office has been in communication with federal officials who have said they can no longer accommodate Alaskas noncompliance. She said federal officials gave no indication they would accept the agencys compromise offer.

Its nice to see theyre still trying to find a resolution, she said of the states education officials. But I believe the U.S. Department of Education has been clear that theres only one resolution option, and I do not see any potential court action deciding in our favor.

Tobin said her main concern is that the high-risk status could make districts less competitive for any grant application, even from sources other than the federal government, because of the stigma. Many districts, such as the Ketchikan School District, use the states education department as their fiscal sponsor when applying for grants, she said.

Its again, one of those situations where the department is creating the crisis that could easily be avoided, she said.

Tobin is a strong supporter of increasing support for schools to implement the Alaska Reads Act, which the administration has said can be funded through outside grants. She said the high-risk determination could complicate that, too. In her last conversation with federal officials, she said it was clear that continued noncompliance would result in increasing consequences.

There is this belief that its just a gnat flying around our head, but I anticipate that over time its going to become a whole hive of bees, and were going to get stung repeatedly if we dont move into compliance, she said. Im not sure what the departments goal is. I dont understand what their intent is. Weve asked multiple times for them to communicate with us, and they have not provided us any additional information.

Commissioner Bishop repeatedly declined to brief the Senates Education Committee on the subject this spring, but Tobin said the department shared its latest correspondence with her office.

As of last week, Bishop said the U.S. Department of Education has not responded to the states request for a compromise. The federal department has said it does not have the authority to waive the grant requirements, which suggests it cannot make exceptions such as the compromise Alaskas education department has proposed.

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Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer previously denied a motion to dismiss Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter charge on May 24

John Lamparski/Getty Alec Baldwin

Alec Baldwin is once again asking the court to drop his involuntary manslaughter charge in his Rust case.

In the latest motion filed on Monday, June 17, the actors attorneys argued that his indictment should be dismissed due to New Mexico prosecutors' failure to disclose evidence to Baldwins defense in a timely manner and the states pattern of "withholding information."

His attorneys claimed that the state had been in possession of thousands of files, over "150,000 pages of documents" and dozens of gigabytes worth of data for months, and in some cases over a year, that contained critical evidence favorable to Baldwins defense that could have reshaped the way Baldwin prepared for trial if they had been disclosed earlier.

Due to this, his attorneys argued in the motion that the state violated Baldwin's constitutional rights under New Mexico law and Brady v. Maryland, a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision which determined that the prosecution must turn over to the defendant any evidence in its possession that suggests the defendant is not guilty.

Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office/ZUMA Press Wire Service/Shutterstock Alec Baldwin as seen on the 'Rust' set in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Related: Alec Baldwin Could Still Have His Manslaughter Charge Dismissed: Legal Expert Explains an 'Unlikely' Scenario

Whether the States misconduct was intentional or purported to be just careless, severe remedies are warranted, Baldwins attorneys wrote in the motion.

Baldwins attorneys asked the judge in this case, Mary Marlowe Summer, to dismiss Baldwins indictment or reduce the prejudice that the states misconduct has caused by precluding all of the testimony, evidence and argument related to the contention that Baldwin must have pulled the trigger.

His attorneys are also asking the judge to require the state to disclose its final witness list and to disclose outstanding document productions, which include answers to Baldwins questions relating to the states investigation, among other requests.

Related: Rust Trial Is 'Stressful Situation' for Alec Baldwin and Wife Hilaria After Armorer's Verdict (Source)

Baldwin's attorneys and New Mexico's First Judicial District Attorney's Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment on the latest motion.

Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer previously denied the motion to dismiss his involuntary manslaughter charge on May 24.

Sommer wrote that the court did not find, among others, that the jury was instructed improperly, nor did the prosecution violate instruction of the grand jury judge. Baldwins lawyers previously argued for the case to be dismissed due to destruction of evidence, and prosecutors failure to allege a criminal offense.

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In January, 2024, a New Mexico grand jury filed an indictment against the actor, who had been holding a gun on the New Mexico set of the Western movie Rust when it discharged, resulting in the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuries of director Joel Souza. However, Baldwin has insisted he never pulled the trigger and did not know the gun accidentally contained live ammunition.

Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer is scheduled to hear the defenses other two motions on getting the indictment dismissed and the motion from the state to compel Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed to testify in this case. That hearing is scheduled for Friday, June 21.

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NEW YORK  Alec Baldwin was sloppy and reckless with firearms on the set of Rust before the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, prosecutors have contended.

According to court documents obtained by ETonline, the 66-year-old leading man engaged in horseplay during firearm training, including one instance when he fired a blank round at a crew member, whom hed been using to establish his line of sight. Prosecutors further alleged Baldwin was also erratic and aggressive during filming, contributing to safety concerns on set.

Baldwin would also allegedly use his prop firearm as a pointer, relying on it to acknowledge and direct different people while filming. Prosecutors in their latest filing additionally accused him of firing the weapon on at least one occasion despite the fact that cut had already been called.

Baldwin was rehearsing a scene inside the Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe, N.M., when he mistakenly shot Hutchins on Oct. 21, 2021. He was seated in a church pew, practicing a move in which he whips a pistol from its holster, when it suddenly went off. The films director, Joel Souza, was also struck in the shoulder.

Earlier this year, Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in connection with Hutchins death and was ordered to spend 18 months in jail.

Baldwin, who has long insisted he did not pull the trigger prior to the deadly gunfire, is meanwhile scheduled to go to trial on July 9 in Santa Fe, where he will also face a count of manslaughter. Prosecutors have also said Baldwin, who served as a producer for Rust, often ignored Gutierrez-Reed when she was providing him instruction, and that he would often rush cast and crew to keep them as close to on schedule as possible.

Whats more, when filming resumed on Rust after the deadly gunfire, this time in Montana, prosecutors day Baldwin insisted on not being held to industry safety standards.

If convicted, the Emmy-winning actor faces up to 18 months behind bars.
BOX ELDER COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  Early Tuesday morning, a man was found dead after crashing a car that was previously reported stolen.

According to the Utah Department of Public Safety, officials with Box Elder Dispatch received a call around 5:45 a.m. on Tuesday morning. The caller reported a vehicle in a ditch near milepost 20 on I-84.

READ NEXT: Baby ejected after car crash in Draper, teens hospitalized

Further investigation revealed the vehicle involved had been stolen out of Weber County around midnight, officials said.

The driver who was found at the scene of the crash matched the description of the suspect who reportedly stole the vehicle.

An image of a car after a fatal crash in Box Elder County on June 18, 2024. The vehicle was reported stolen earlier, and officials said the driver of the vehicle matched the description of the suspect. (Courtesy: Utah Department of Public Safety)

An image of a car after a fatal crash in Box Elder County on June 18, 2024. The vehicle was reported stolen earlier, and officials said the driver of the vehicle matched the description of the suspect. (Courtesy: Utah Department of Public Safety)

Troopers arrived at the scene roughly 20 minutes after receiving the call and found a silver Toyota Sequoia with extensive damage near milepost 18, according to the DPS.

The SUV was down an embankment and not clearly visible from the roadway, the DPS said in a press release. The driver had been ejected from the vehicle during the crash and rollover.

Officials said the driver was the only occupant of the vehicle and he was declared deceased.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation. The DPS said troopers will be coordinating with the proper agencies regarding the stolen car.

After the crash, lanes were closed on I-84 for about three hours.

There is no further information at this time.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Its almost like he knew something was wrong. SLED K9 handler recalls final day

On the morning of June 11, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division Special Agent Cole Powell had a choice: travel to Georgia for training or stick around Columbia in case he and his partner, K9 Coba, were needed.

As the only available SLED K9 unit that day, Powell decided to stay. Moments later, he received a call.

It would be their last call.

He and Coba  a 4-year-old Belgian Malinois mix  were needed to assist the Newberry County Sheriffs Office in apprehending Robert Peterson, 37, who was wanted for burglary.

My son was so excited to see us going to get the bad guy, Powell said. Coba ran around the yard and then loaded up.

Coba, who joined SLED in spring 2021, served on both SLEDs SWAT and K9 tracking teams. He had been deployed 300 times and apprehended 16 criminals, according to Lt. Keith Thrower, who oversees SLEDs K9 tracking team.

He was always ready to put himself in harms way, Thrower said of the K9. You could feel Cobas intensity, whether he was on a fugitive or SWAT call, there was never any doubt that he did not have your back.

Coba lived with Powell and his family, including his wife, Alex, and their two children, Kinley and CJ.

As Powell and Coba were en route to Petersons residence, Coba began consistently whining and spinning in his kennel  unusual behavior, according to Powell.

He was driving me crazy, Powell said. He never whines and doesnt usually make any sounds, but this time he whined the entire time. And now looking at, its almost like he knew something was wrong.

When Powell and Coba arrived, Coba quieted down and got back to business as usual, Powell said.

Minutes later, Peterson fatally shot Coba with a shotgun. Peterson was also shot, but survived.

In addition to burglary charges, Peterson could be facing weightier charges. The Lexington County Sheriffs Department is investigating the incident at the request of SLED.

To honor his fearless service, droves of law enforcement officials from around the state and beyond gathered at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy for a memorial service Wednesday. The service featured a procession, bag pipes and a 21-gun salute.

SLED Chief Mark Keel delivered tearful remarks during the memorial, honoring Coba for making the ultimate sacrifice.

Today is a somber day, but its also a day of celebration for a server and partner, Keel said. Coba will be remembered for his dedication to SLED and his partner (Powell). No human counterpart ... goes home with their partner, shares their family with their partner and becomes part of the family. Because of the ultimate sacrifice Coba made, the family was preserved as Powell and other officers involved in Petersons arrest went home to their families.

I will forever be thankful for him, and the memories that we have will live on forever, Powell said. But (Coba) would be so mad if he knew that we were all sitting around crying for him today. We will be back soon, and as hard as it is for me to wrap my head around, I truly believe that we will be better than ever.
(Bloomberg) -- Amazon.com Inc., the worlds largest provider of cloud computing services and data storage, said it will invest an additional 10 billion ($10.7 billion) into its cloud infrastructure and logistics network in Germany as the technology giant expands its network of data centers globally.

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The latest plans include 8.8 billion to build and maintain its cloud infrastructure for the AWS cloud computing business in the Frankfurt region by 2026, the company said in a statement on Wednesday. The commitment is in addition to the companys plans to spend 7.8 billion by 2040 to build a sovereign cloud business in the country.

While the announcement was part of a meeting between Amazons Chief Executive Officer Andy Jassy and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Amazon has made several similar commitments across the globe this year. Amazon also said last month it would invest 15.7 billion in Spain through 2033 and 1.2 billion on infrastructure and computing in France. Thats in addition to projects in Mexico, the US, Saudi Arabia and Singapore.

AWS is facing increasing competition from rivals including Microsoft Corp., which is mounting its own global expansion, as the industry races to increase data processing and storage capacity to meet greater computing needs driven by the boom in artificial intelligence programs.

European regulators are steadily pushing cloud companies to store their data within the bloc to address privacy and security concerns. Amazons announcement in May was for spending to help build out a European sovereign cloud, which will be controlled exclusively by people inside the European Union.

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JOPLIN, Mo.  Once school lets out and families start going on vacation, the need for blood increases more so than usual.

But one area man is doing his part to help with that shortfall.

So few people donate blood and theres quite a need for it, so thats why I do it, said John Brockman, blood donor.

Every eight weeks, youll find John Brockman doing the same thing, rolling up his sleeve for the American Red Cross and giving the gift of life.

But even after donating more than 15 gallons of the lifesaving liquid, theres one thing he still hasnt overcome.

I hate needles, and I cant watch them do it, I cant even watch them do it on TV., but yeah, its just a few seconds of discomfort and then its gone, said Brockman.

Brockman is a retired Southwest Missouri teacher and started giving blood on a regular basis back in 1999.

The first time happened when a student asked him to donate during a blood drive at East Newton High School, where he used to teach.

Fifteen gallons means hundreds of lives saved potentially each and every year, and yes, we would love to have more people like that, but you know what, if you come in for the first time ever to donate your first pint of blood, that means youve saved a life too, said Stacy Burks, executive director, American Red Cross of Southern Missouri.

The sense of helping out, and you know, maybe I can help somebody, and thats about it, I dont need to do it for any other reason, really, just to be helpful, Brockman.

While regulations prevent him from knowing whos receiving his blood, there is a Red Cross app that allows him to know where his donation is being used.

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Justice Amy Coney Barrett did something interesting last week in an otherwise uninteresting case. The Supreme Court delivered its ruling last Thursday in Vidal v. Elster, which involved First Amendment claims in trademark law. The justices ultimately concluded that the government can refuse to register trademarks that use other peoples names without their permission.



While the decision was unanimous, the reasoning behind it was not. Justice Clarence Thomas took what seemed like a classically originalist path: He surveyed centuries of historical evidence in the English and American legal systems, concluded that there was a strong historical tradition of restricting unauthorized trademarks of other peoples names, and ruled that the First Amendment allowed it.

Barrett rejected Thomass reasoning outright. Relying exclusively on history and tradition may seem like a way of avoiding judge-made tests, she wrote in a concurring opinion. But a rule rendering tradition dispositive is itself a judge-made test. And I do not see a good reason to resolve this case using that approach rather than by adopting a generally applicable principle.

While this might seem like a minor difference in practical terms, it is a significant one in legal theory. The conservative justices favored method of constitutional interpretation these days is originalism, where judges are supposed to interpret the Constitutions meaning based on its original public meaning. It would be too much to say that Barrett is rejecting this approach in whole or in part. But she appears increasingly willing to call out other originalists when their evidence of a historical tradition is weak. Even more importantly, she is unwilling to let it be the exclusive means by which she reads the Constitution.

At issue in this particular case was a trademark involving former President Donald Trump. Steve Elster, a labor lawyer based in California, sought to trademark the phrase Trump too small, along with an illustration of a hand making a small gesture. Elsters mark was an apparent reference to an exchange between Trump and Florida Senator Marco Rubio during the 2016 GOP primaries, where Rubio famously questioned the size of one of Trumps physical attributes.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office denied Elsters application, citing a provision in the Lanham Act, the flagship federal trademark law, known as the names clause. The clause generally forbids the agency from registering trademarks that include a name, portrait, or signature identifying a particular living individual without that persons consent. According to the PTO, the clause avoids confusion in the marketplace over whether certain people endorse certain products, which could unfairly bolster ones own goods or even undercut a competitor.

Elster sued the agency in federal court on First Amendment grounds. He argued that the PTO examiner had discriminated against him based on the content of Elsters proposed trademark. The Federal Circuit Court of Appeals, which exclusively hears appeals from certain federal agencies, sided with Elster in a ruling two years ago. The PTO asked the Supreme Court last year to intervene and reinstate the names clause.

While the First Amendment generally forbids the government from curtailing speech, not all such restrictions are equal. Courts are least forgiving when the government restricts speech based on the speakers viewpointsay, for example, if it allows unauthorized Trump-related trademarks, but not Biden-related ones. In the recent cases Matal v. Tam and Iancu v. Brunetti, the justices struck down restrictions against trademarks that were considered either disparaging or immoral and scandalous for that reason.

Restrictions that are viewpoint-neutral, like forbidding both Trump-related and Biden-related trademarks, receive a little more leeway from the courts, so long as the government has a good reason for them. Thomas opted for the more forgiving approach rather than the less forgiving one. He cited a wide range of historical cases, both English and American, to claim that history and tradition showed that the names clause was constitutional.

We conclude that a tradition of restricting the trademarking of names has coexisted with the First Amendment, and the names clause fits within that tradition, Thomas concluded. Though the particulars of the doctrine have shifted over time, the consistent through line is that a person generally had a claim only to his own name. The names clause reflects this common-law tradition by prohibiting a person from obtaining a trademark of another living persons name without consent, thereby protecting the others reputation and goodwill.

In her concurring opinion, Barrett strongly disagreed with that approach. She agreed that the names clause did not violate the First Amendment. But she took issue with Thomass attempt to ground that decision in a history and tradition analysis, as well as his subsequent refusal to establish a standard for courts to use if there is no clear historical analogue for trademark restrictions that are viewpoint neutral.

That is wrong twice over, Barrett wrote. First, the courts evidence, consisting of loosely related cases from the late-19th and early-20th centuries, does not establish a historical analogue for the names clause. Second, the court never explains why hunting for historical forebears on a restriction-by-restriction basis is the right way to analyze the constitutional question.

Barrett undertook her own review of the relevant history and concluded it was much less clear that such a tradition existed. She noted that Thomas did not fully grapple with countervailing evidence from nineteenth-century U.S. courts or address key differences between the current federal trademark law and its predecessors. Barrett even noted that the legislative history of the Lanham Act suggested the names clauses drafters intended to go beyond the existing common-law approach.

These critiques are not novel in and of themselves. A major objection to originalism is that it engages in law-office history, in which lawyers and judges scour the historical record for evidence that supports their case and discard anything that doesnt. Professional historians have also long criticized originalists for their cavalier approach to historical research.

The history that historians write is much too complicated, too unwieldy to be used, Gordon Wood, a prominent historian of the early American republic, told an audience of legal scholars in 2013. As I say, judges have created what has been called history lite. I think its an essential part of what you do, or what jurists do, and I dont disparage it. But lets not get it confused with real critical history because that cant be used very effectively.

What is striking is seeing similar critiques coming from Barrett herself. The courts second-newest justice has previously identified herself with the originalist camp. During her confirmation hearings in 2020, she also recognized that even originalists could disagree with one another about the original public meaning of constitutional provisions. Its not a mechanical exercise, she told the senators. In Vidal, however, she was not merely questioning whether Thomas got the history rightshe was disputing its relevance altogether.

For Barrett, the names clauseand other restrictions similar to itcould be upheld independently of any historical tradition. Content-based criteria for trademark registration do not abridge the right to free speech so long as they reasonably relate to the preservation of the mark owners goodwill and the prevention of consumer confusion, she wrote. A particular restriction will serve those goals if it helps ensure that registered marks actually function as source identifiers. That sounds suspiciously like the sort of balancing tests that many originalists hope to remove from American constitutional law.

In a separate concurring opinion in the trademark case, Justice Brett Kavanaugh and Chief Justice John Roberts also wrote that something like the names clause might well be constitutional even absent such a historical pedigree, citing Barretts opinion. Only two of the courts other membersJustices Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuchactually agreed with Thomas on it. But Kavanaugh and Roberts did not offer the comprehensive critique of Thomas that Barrett did, nor did they join her concurring opinion outright.

Looming in the background of Barrett and Thomass dispute in Vidal is the Second Amendment. Two years ago, the Supreme Court took originalism to its logical conclusion in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen, its first major Second Amendment case in more than a decade. Thomas, writing for the court, abandoned balancing tests altogether for the individual right to bear arms in favor of a history and tradition test.

To justify its regulation, the government may not simply posit that the regulation promotes an important interest, he wrote. Rather, the government must demonstrate that the regulation is consistent with this nations historical tradition of firearm regulation. Only if a firearm regulation is consistent with this nations historical tradition may a court conclude that the individuals conduct falls outside the Second Amendments unqualified command.

As Ive noted a few times since then, the Bruen test has led to chaos in the lower courts. Judges acting in good faith have reached very different conclusions on whether some restrictions have a historical analogue. It has also led to deeply troubling results: The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, invoking Bruen, struck down a federal law that bans gun ownership for people under certain types of domestic violence restraining orders.

The justices are currently reviewing that decision in United States v. Rahimi, and a ruling could come any day now. While the court seemed likely to uphold the restriction after oral arguments last fall, squaring such decision with Bruen could prove difficult. If Barrett is more skeptical of the strict history-and-tradition test laid out in Bruen today than when she joined the high court two years ago, Rahimi could result in a much less restrictive test than what it would replace.

While Barretts evolution is interesting, it is not sudden. In the 2021 case Fulton v. City of Philadelphia, she rejected efforts to overturn a major precedent that limits Free Exercise Clause claims in federal courts because she found the conservatives assertions about historical traditions to be unpersuasive. Earlier this term, Barrett sided with the other eight justices on blocking disqualifications by state-level officials in Trump v. Anderson, but refused to follow the other five conservatives in effectively wiping it out altogether. And in the recent decision on the Consumer Financial Protection Bureaus funding structure, Barrett joined a concurring opinion by Justice Elena Kagan that politely noted that the agencys structure would be constitutional even without the historical tradition that Thomas had identified in his majority opinion.

It would also be easy to overstate these differences. Barrett is still a deeply conservative justice: She provided the fifth vote to overturn Roe v. Wade, she consistently votes to limit federal agencies regulatory authority, and she sides with her fellow conservatives in most other cases with an ideological divide. As one conservative legal scholar noted the other day, it is extremely unlikely that Barrett will become another David Soutera Republican-appointed justice who famously drifted from the conservative wing to the liberal wing in the 1990sanytime soon.

At the same time, the courts second-newest justice is increasingly willing to part ways with her conservative colleagues when she thinks they are going too far too quickly. This is especially true when the case would be decided on originalist grounds. Even if Barretts approach reflects caution instead of moderation, it could be an important factor in future casesand a potentially decisive one if theres a 54 court again any time soon.


By Laurie Chen and Josh Smith

BEIJING/SEOUL (Reuters) - China reacted guardedly this week as Russia and North Korea deepened their ties and vowed to resist the U.S.-led West, with Beijing avoiding any trilateral arrangement that might complicate its relations with other countries.

On Wednesday, Beijing watched from the sidelines as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shared his "in-most thoughts" with visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang.

Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Lin Jian said a briefing on Tuesday only that the summit was a bilateral exchange between Russia and North Korea, but did not elaborate.

"China has certain reservations regarding North Korea's deepening military cooperation with Russia, which could undermine Beijing's near monopoly of geopolitical influence over Pyongyang," said Tong Zhao of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

"China is also careful not to create the perception of a de facto alliance among Beijing, Moscow, and Pyongyang, as this will not be helpful for China to maintain practical cooperation with key Western countries," Zhao said.

Since North Korea eased its anti-pandemic border controls last year, trade with China has rebounded but Kim's political engagement has been dominated by Russia.

Kim made his first - and so far only - post-pandemic trip to Russia to meet Putin last year, and Putin is the first world leader to visit the politically and economically isolated North since borders reopened.

Russia also took the unprecedented step of using North Korean-made ballistic missiles, which are banned by U.N. Security Council resolutions, to strike targets in Ukraine, according to U.S. and allied officials, and U.N. sanctions monitors.

China proclaimed a "no limits" relationship with Russia just days before Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, but Beijing has so far avoided providing weapons and ammunition for the war effort.

China has joined Russia in blocking new sanctions on North Korea at the Security Council, but abstained when Moscow vetoed the extension of a panel that monitored sanctions enforcement.

One South Korean government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that there appears to be tension between Beijing and Pyongyang over thousands of North Korean workers who remain in China in violation of U.N. resolutions.

'MORE IMPORTANT CONCERNS'

China is by far North Korea's largest trading partner, and the two share a mutual defence treaty that dates to the 1960s, the only such treaty either country has with any nation.

That relationship is unlikely to change, but Kim's engagement with Putin and their unpredictable behaviour creates new uncertainty for China, said Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center in Washington.

"Until there is a clear development and policy that challenges Chinas position, Id say China is willing to sit aside and see how things go," she said.

For China, closer ties between Russia and North Korea distract the United States, and that is not necessarily a bad thing for Beijing, Sun added.

"China just needs to be careful not to pose it as a trilateral arrangement, which carries too much liability," she said.

While China increasingly clashes with Washington on foreign policy and trade issues, it is far from the international pariah that Russia and North Korea have become. The United States and its allies, Japan and South Korea, topped the list of Beijing's largest trade partners last year.

North Korea issued a rare public rebuke of China after Chinese Premier Li Qiang discussed the North's nuclear weapons with the leaders of South Korea and Japan at a summit in May.

Putin's visit to the North coincided with a visit by senior Chinese foreign and defence officials to Seoul on Wednesday.

"Our side expressed concern about Russian President Putin's visit to North Korea scheduled on the same day, and China expressed hope that exchanges between Russia and North Korea would contribute to peace and stability in the region," South Korea said of the discussions.

China would most likely become concerned if North Korea's partnership with Russia leads to provocative behaviour that makes the regional situation more difficult for Beijing, said Niklas Swanstrom, Director of the Institute for Security and Development Policy in Sweden.

"China wants to do trade, rebuild its economy; they have other more important concerns," he said.

(Reporting by Laurie Chen and Antoni Slodkowski in Beijing and Josh Smith in Seoul; Additional reporting by Ju-min Park in Seoul; Writing by Josh Smith. Editing by Gerry Doyle)
The Defence Intelligence of Ukraine has identified the occupants involved in the execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war near Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia in May this year. All of them are servicemen of the 70th Motorized Rifle Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces stationed in Shali, Chechnya.

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The same invaders may be involved in other war crimes, including the murder of several other Ukrainian soldiers who surrendered in May. The details were disclosed in the DIU's Telegram channel.

Ukraine's military intelligence has identified the occupiers who shot four Ukrainian prisoners of war in the second half of May this year near Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia. The execution was captured on video: when the Ukrainian soldiers surrendered unarmed and with their hands up, the Russians forced them to lie down and shot them at point-blank range.

Then the video, which captured a grave war crime, went viral.

Today, intelligence officers have identified the invaders involved in this crime. All of them were members of the assault group of the 70th Motorized Rifle Regiment (military unit 71718) of the 42nd Motorized Rifle Division of the 58th Army of the Southern District of the Russian Armed Forces. This unit is permanently stationed in Shali (Chechnya).

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At the time of the execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war near Robotyn, the 70th Motorized Rifle Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Yuri Abayev, called "Buffalo," born on December 10, 1990.

In addition to him, according to the DIU, the occupiers from the ranks of the 70th Motorized Rifle Regiment of the Russian Federation were also directly involved in the execution of captured Ukrainian soldiers:

Captain Nagorny Dmitry Olegovich (.   ), born on November 21, 1995, commander of the 2nd battalion ;

(.   ), born on November 21, 1995, ; First Lieutenant Abutalimov Temirlan Umarovich (Russian:   ), born on May 02, 1997  commander of the 1st assault company ;

(Russian:   ), born on May 02, 1997  ; Lieutenant Bekov Zaur Sergeevich (Russian:   ), born on 16 July 1997  commander of the 3rd assault company ;

(Russian:   ), born on 16 July 1997  ; Senior Lieutenant Imagazaliyev Yusup Paisulayevich (Russian:   ), born on 18 July 1999, commander of the 6th assault company.

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"These Russian war criminals may also be involved in the murder of several more Ukrainian prisoners of war later in May 2024. This is evidenced, in particular, by the radio interception of a conversation between the occupiers and the 70th Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces, during which one of the Russian assault company commanders ordered his subordinates to shoot Ukrainian soldiers. There will be just retribution for every war crime committed against Ukraine!" the DIU emphasized.

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As a reminder, on June 18, the Prosecutor General of Ukraine spoke about another terrible crime of the Russian occupiers: they executed another Ukrainian prisoner of war, his head on the hood of a car in the Donetsk region was recorded by a drone.

Kostin said that the Ukrainian side has information that Russian commanders ordered the occupiers not to take Ukrainian soldiers prisoner but to execute them in such a barbaric way, so the recorded crime may not be the only one.

The very next day, on June 19, the Prosecutor General said that investigators had identified the soldier executed by the invaders, but had not yet named him publicly. The investigation also has information about the occupiers who brutally killed our soldier.

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!
By Guy Faulconbridge and Josh Smith

MOSCOW/SEOUL (Reuters) - Vladimir Putin, on his first visit to North Korea in 24 years, signed a mutual defence pledge with Kim Jong Un on Wednesday, underscoring just how far Russia has recast its relations with the only country to test a nuclear weapon this century.

Putin, who is locked into a major confrontation with the West over Ukraine, cemented his pivot to North Korea after nearly two decades of supporting United Nations sanctions against Pyongyang.

Depending on the exact wording of the pact, which was not immediately released, it could be a dramatic shift in the entire strategic situation in Northeast Asia, said Artyom Lukin, at Russia's Far Eastern Federal University.

"If Russia provides security guarantees to North Korea, then the DPRK becomes an analogue of Belarus, Russia's main ally in Eastern Europe," Lukin said, using the initials for North Korea's official name. "It will be an open challenge to the system of U.S.-centric alliances in Northeast Asia. And, of course, it will be a huge problem for Seoul and Tokyo."

While North Korea has a defence treaty with China, it does not have active military collaboration with Beijing like it has developed with Russia over the past year.

China, by far North Korea's largest trading partner and an increasingly important ally for Russia, has reacted cautiously to their burgeoning ties, avoiding any trilateral arrangement that might complicate its relations elsewhere.

'DRIVEN BY WAR IN UKRAINE'

The courting of Kim, which includes gifts of limousines, a tour of Russia's new space launch centre and a "strategic partnership" pact including a mutual defence clause, has alarmed the United States and its Asian allies.

Their spy agencies are trying to work out just how far the 71-year-old Kremlin chief will go - and what missile or even nuclear technology Russia might pass to North Korea in exchange for munitions to fight in Ukraine.

"The first visit by Putin in 24 years shows this is about what Russia can get from North Korea - and that is driven by the war in Ukraine," said Ramon Pacheco Pardo, professor of international relations at King's College in London.

Pacheco Pardo, who has written books about both Koreas, said that he expected Russia to share some knowledge and expertise for the development of North Korea's missile and nuclear programmes, though not Moscow's most advanced technology.

"I think this is a big change in relation to North Korea," he said. "Without the invasion of Ukraine, I don't think Russia would have felt compelled to share such technology."

Four diplomats who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity said they expected deeper ties with North Korea but said that Russia, as the world's biggest nuclear power, would be highly selective about what technology it shared with Kim.

Another Western diplomat, based in Seoul, said the extent of Russia's cooperation with North Korea was injecting a sense of urgency in Europe's engagement with countries such as South Korea and Japan and may lead to more shifts in global alliances.

Russia says its relations with Pyongyang will accord to international agreements and that it will not be told how to conduct its relations by any other power, least of all the United States.

Both Russia and North Korea have denied accusations by U.S. and allied officials, and U.N. sanctions monitors, that Pyongyang is sharing weapons for use in Ukraine.

'COMRADE KIM'

Putin said on Wednesday that Russia did "not exclude developing military-technical cooperation" with North Korea due to Western support for Ukraine.

"The deepening cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is something that should be of concern, especially to anyone that's interested in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula," Major General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesperson, told reporters.

Putin's move towards North Korea is seen by diplomats as a major turning point in the international sanctions regime against North Korea, which was formed in 1948 with the backing of the then-Soviet Union.

In March, Russia vetoed the annual renewal of a panel of experts monitoring enforcement of longstanding United Nations sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes. China had abstained.

The next day, Russia said that major powers needed a new approach to North Korea, accusing the United States and its allies of ratcheting up military tensions in Asia.

"The North Korea-Russia relationship started out as a marriage of convenience focusing on arms and tech transfers, so very transactional, but is now moving into payment systems, research collaboration and exchanges of different types," said Niklas Swanstrom, Director of the Institute for Security and Development Policy in Sweden. "It seems to have a depth that we have underestimated."

LIMITS

There are, though, limits to the relationship, say analysts.

Russia, the world's biggest nuclear power, is not interested in major nuclear proliferation, especially by a neighbour.

Nor is China, which despite growing clashes with Washington on foreign policy and trade issues is far from the international pariah that Russia and North Korea have become.

Both Moscow and Beijing, while ready to needle the United States and its Asian allies with public support for North Korea, have in the past criticised Pyongyang in public for its displays of missile or nuclear might.

Russia is due to outproduce all of the NATO military alliance on ammunition this year, so Putin's reliance on Kim is limited.

And while the Soviet Union helped North Korea build a research reactor at Yongbyon, the Soviet-era Kremlin was always wary of the nuclear ambitions of Kim Il Sung - the state founder and Kim Jong Un's grandfather - and found Pyongyang a provocative difficult partner, especially when it tried to nudge Moscow by deepening ties with China.

Russia has also historically balanced its approach to the North with its relations with South Korea, a U.S. ally but economic powerhouse, said Anthony Rinna, a specialist in Korea-Russia relations at Sino-NK, a website that analyses the region.

"By sidling up to North Korea, especially by upgrading their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Russia risks undermining its policy of diplomatic equidistance," he said.

(Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge and Josh Smith; Additional reporting by Minwoo Park in Seoul and Laurie Chen in Beijing; Editing by Alex Richardson)
On Sunday our congressional representative, Andy Barr, had an op-ed Defending Taiwan is vital to U.S. national security and economic interests reporting on his recent trip with a bipartisan Congressional delegation to show the United States unwavering commitment . . . to the island democracy . . .

Barr applauded the bi-partisan support in Congress for Taiwan, noting that stakes are too high for complacency. We must continue to strengthen our partnerships, uphold our values, and ensure that freedom and democracy prevail in the face of authoritarian threats.

Anyone who had heard or read about Andy Barrs interview on Fox News just a few days earlier could only conclude that the congressman values democracy in Asia much more than he does in his own country.

When asked on Fox whether he favored releasing from jail those who had participated in the Jan. 6 insurrection, he responded: Absolutely. Instead, Barr deflected blame for the Capitol attack on Nancy Pelosi, on the shameless grounds that the then Speaker should have secured the place with the National Guard.

They knew that there was going to be trouble and they did nothing, Barr declaimed, as though having inadequate security gives the attackers something of a coup mulligan. But Barr was not through with his unwriting of history. The Jan. 6 Committee investigation he airily discredited as a total fraud, conveniently failing to explain away the overwhelming evidence that the bipartisan committee found of the well-planned operation.

Never has it been clearer how totally Barr is in step with the rest of his party who are perfectly willing to gaslight and lie in the service of Donald Trump.

Mitch McConnell, Barrs mentor, showed the way by first assuring that Trump would escape conviction in the impeachment trial that followed the failed coup, then by using the filibuster to kill the creation of an independent commission to investigate Jan 6.

Barr himself joined the vast majority of his Republican colleagues in opposing the formation of the select committee, which Nancy Pelosi created as a final body to determine accountability for the horrific events of Jan. 6. Barr, like most House Republicans saw no good coming out of such a committee, especially when more than a few of his mates on the Republican side were very much involved with the treasonous plans to stop the steal.

Andy Barr is obviously a Republican of quite a different stripe.

He won his first Congressional race in 2012 by lying and fear mongering about the phony War on Coal. He has always been a dependable gofer for Corporate America, at the expense of most of the citizens of District Six. In 2018 Amy McGrath came very close to unseating him and likely would have done so in 2020, had she run against him instead of McConnell.

This year, voters have even more compelling reasons to reject this Trump sycophant. In Randy Cravens they have a McGrath-like candidate who, unlike Barr, is truly committed to working across the aisle in good faith for the common good, not just for political show.

Lets send a message to Barr and all the anti-democrats disguising themselves as Republicans by voting for Randy Cravens.

Robert Emmett Curran is a professor of history emeritus from Georgetown University
The village of Malekhiv in Lviv Oblast. Stock photo: Lviv City Council

Ukrainian air defence systems were responding to a Russian drone attack near Lviv for the second time on the night of 18-19 June, and a second explosion occurred in Malekhiv.

Source: Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi; Maksym Kozytskyi, Head of Lviv Oblast Military Administration

Details: Sadovyi reported that air defence was responding to the attack at 05:17.

Kozytskyi reported that a Shahed attack drone was heading from Novyi Yarychiv for Dubliany.

"A very similar route as during the previous air raid," he added.

Later, Kozytskyi wrote that the drone flew to Malekhiv, where a strike had previously been recorded.

"Another explosion in Malekhiv," Sadovyi wrote.

After that, the all-clear was given.

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Burglars continue to target LEGO retailers across Southern California.

Bricks & MiniFigs, a nationwide chain of franchised LEGO stores, have experienced break-ins at several locations over the last several months, the most recent taking place in Lomita early Tuesday morning.

The crime was all caught on camera, with surveillance video showing two people, faces covered, entering the store after shattering the glass of the front door.

Once inside, they grabbed several LEGO boxed sets; one of the burglars even came back for more before leaving.

[They] took somewhere around $5,000 or more, said Miguel Zuniga, the stores owner. The lowest sets they were taking are around $100 and there were about 14 sets that weve counted so far.

A Bricks & MiniFigs store in Lomita was burglarized on June 18, 2024. Security footage from the store captured the break-in.

Zuniga said he took on a big risk for his family when he opened the store less than a year ago. I put every single dollar into here, he said. This is my kids future.

In recent months, several other LEGO stores have been targeted, including one in Ontario, where the burglars made off with thousands of dollars in merchandise.

Another break-in took place in Whittier, where one thief with a trash bag and headlamp was caught on camera.

Over 2,800 boxes of stolen LEGOs found inside Long Beach home

In Lomita Tuesday afternoon, members of the community were already coming out to show their support for Miguels store.

I heard the bad news that somebody broke in, said 5-year-old Grayson, who visits the store often with his dad. I went into my piggy bank, I have my money.

The two said they knew they needed to stop in on Tuesday to show their support.

This is our favorite store, said Brian Bowser, Graysons dad. When Miguel opened up shop here, we wanted to support local business.

Even during this difficult time, Zuniga says he knows they will make it through.

I look out for my community, without them, there wouldnt be us, Zuniga said. [The thieves] think its just me, but no, my family, my workers, my customers, if they lose this store  this is a store they love coming to and we enjoy helping them.

Several law enforcement agencies have been in contact with one another about these burglaries, though it was not known yet if they were connected.

Anyone with any information should contact their local 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 KTLA.
Dr. Anthony Fauci said Tuesday that Donald Trump got the notion to push hydroxychloroquine as a COVID-19 treatment from none other than Fox News host Laura Ingraham. (Watch the video below.)

Fauci, a White House coronavirus task force member during the pandemic, said the former president fixated on so-called miracle cures with no basis in science.

Trump yelled at Fauci for openly dismissing the supposed effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial drug that was promoted by conservatives as a COVID treatment without any real evidence.

Im telling the American public the facts, Fauci said he told Trump. Hydroxychloroquine doesnt work.

Fauci, who describes his complicated relationship with Trump in his new book On Call, told MSNBCs Ari Melber what he speculated was the reason for Trumps insistence on the drugs ability to quell the outbreak.

I believe he wanted so badly for this to go away the way influenza goes away, and when he saw it was not going away, then he was hoping for some magical solution, and he even used those words, Its going to go away like magic, Fauci said. And then when that didnt work, then we had to have these miracle cures like hydroxychloroquine, which he got from Laura Ingraham on Fox News.

Claims about the drugs purported usefulness against the coronavirus were bandied about through right-wing channels before Ingraham visited the White House in April 2020 to sell Trump on the drug.

Ingraham, who had already been touting hydroxychloroquine on her show along with other Fox personalities, brought cardiologist Dr. Ramin Oskoui, who was included in a New York Times opinion piece about dangerous doctors in a pandemic, and Stephen Smith, an infectious disease specialist, to the meeting, The Wall Street Journal reported. Smith said in April 2020 that he thought the drug combined with an antibiotic was the beginning of the end of the pandemic.

Trump was sold. In mid-May 2020, he announced that he had been taking the drug for weeks. Ive heard a lot of good stories, he said.

But a study published in June 2023 by the National Institutes of Health highlighted the futility of the medicine as a pre-exposure treatment for COVID-19. It noted no significant difference between a placebo and the actual drug in preventing infection.

A study released in January 2024 determined that the drug Trump championed as a silver bullet actually increased the mortality rate by 11% among those who took it to treat COVID-19. It was linked to nearly 17,000 deaths in six countries during the pandemics first wave.

Related...
The dad of three was remembered as a dedicated parent and public servant who "always said, What can I do to help? "

Scottsdale Police Department/Facebook Detective Ryan So

Police say an Arizona detective was killed in an accident last week when a gun that he had been moving accidentally discharged.

The Scottsdale Police Department wrote in a statement on social media that Detective Ryan So succumbed to duty-related injuries sustained on Friday, June 14, though they did not provide additional details.

This is an unimaginable tragedy for both Ryans family and his police family at SPD, the department wrote. Our thoughts and prayers are with Detective Sos family, his team, and everyone across our police department.

The Scottsdale Police Department shared in a news release with The Arizona Republic and Newsweek that So, along with other detectives from the Special Assignment Unit, had been unloading equipment after executing a search warrant and arrest operation when the incident happened.

Related: 2 Survive After Small Plane Attempts Emergency Landing on Highway and Crashes into Colorado Creek

As So moved a bag from a vehicle, a rifle fell out of it, according to police. As it hit the pavement, the rifle discharged, striking him.

Other detectives on the scene provided aid before he was eventually transported to the hospital, where he died from his injuries.

"The loss of Detective So is deeply felt throughout the entire community. We will forever honor his sacrifice and remember his legacy as a hero who dedicated his life to serving and protecting others," Scottsdale police said in a statement to the news outlets. (The department did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment.)



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According to the department, So had been an officer with the Scottsdale police for nine years and also served in the U.S. Navy.

Community members told local TV station KSAZ that So leaves behind a wife, Ashley. and three daughters: Emerson, Stella and Tatum.

Sandi Turek, who taught one of Sos daughters at North Valley Christian Academy, remembered him as a dedicated father who always made time for his children.



Related: Serious Injuries Reported in 2-Story House Collapse in New York, but 'Miraculously' No Deaths

"He made it a point to come to stuff in the middle of the day, like, What time is it? I have to be there,'" Turek told KSAZ. "He made sure he was there."

She also shared that he loved to serve his community and was an example to his daughters, who he would often drop off at school in the mornings.

"He always said, What can I do to help? He was a mirror. They reflected on that, and they saw that as an example, and they wanted to be like their dad," Turek said.

Sos funeral is scheduled to take place in Scottsdale, Arizona, on Thursday, June 20.



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Arizona is sending taxpayer money to religious schools  and billionaires see it as a model for the US

Near the edge of the Phoenix metros urban sprawl, surrounded by a wide expanse of saguaro-studded scrubland, Dream City Christian School is in the midst of a major expansion.

The private school, which is affiliated with a local megachurch where former President Donald Trump held a campaign rally this month, recently broke ground on a new wing that will feature modern, airy classrooms and a pickleball court. Its a sign of growth at a school that has partnered with a Trump-aligned advocacy group, and advertises to parents by vowing to fight liberal ideology such as evolutionism and gender identification.

Just a few miles away, the public Paradise Valley Unified School District is shrinking, not expanding. The district shuttered three of its schools last month amid falling enrollment, a cost-saving measure that has disrupted life for hundreds of families.

One of the factors behind Dream Citys success and Paradise Valleys struggles: In Arizona, taxpayer dollars that previously went to public schools like the ones that closed are increasingly flowing to private schools  including those that adopt a right-wing philosophy.

Arizona was the first state in the country to enact a universal education savings account program  a form of voucher that allows any family to take tax dollars that would have gone to their childs public education and spend the money instead on private schooling.

A CNN investigation found that the program has cost hundreds of millions of dollars more than anticipated, disproportionately benefited richer areas, and funneled taxpayer funds to unregulated private schools that dont face the same educational standards and antidiscrimination protections that public schools do. Since Arizonas expanded program took effect in 2022, according to state data, it has sent nearly $2 million to Dream City and likely sapped millions of dollars from Paradise Valleys budget.

An empty hallway at Sunset Canyon Elementary School in the Paradise Valley School District, which closed down last month. - Jeremy Harlan/CNN

And Arizona is hardly alone: universal voucher programs are sweeping Republican-led states, making it one of the rights most successful efforts to rewrite state policy after decades of setbacks.

The cause has been bolstered by a small group of billionaires who have quietly spent millions of dollars on election campaigns and lobbying to push vouchers around the country. Supporters argue that the programs give families greater freedom in choosing their childrens schools, and help less affluent kids in failing public schools achieve a better education.

Critics say the problems in Arizona are a warning of potential dangers as other states follow its lead. Were the canary in the coal mine, said Trevor Nelson, an education activist and a parent in the Paradise Valley district where public schools are closing. Were on the front lines, and what happens here is going to dictate what happens in the rest of the country.

A national movement transforming Americas education system

For decades, conservative activists and politicians have been pushing policies to make it easier for families to spend taxpayer funds on private education.

Various states passed small, targeted voucher programs for low-income students, or students with disabilities. But efforts to expand vouchers to all families, regardless of their incomes, failed again and again, defeated in voter referendums or rejected by state legislatures and courts.

That changed swiftly in recent years. Since 2021, nearly a dozen states have passed universal or near-universal school choice policies  either vouchers that directly send public dollars to private schools, or similar education savings account programs that give parents more flexibility on where to spend the money.

Tommy Schultz leads the American Federation for Children, which has successfully pushed for voucher programs around the US. - CNN

Theres been more gains made in the last few years of the school choice movement than there were in the prior 30, said Tommy Schultz, the CEO of the pro-voucher American Federation for Children, said in an interview. We are basically hitting a tipping point when it comes to giving families education freedom.

The political calculus on vouchers changed amid the impact of school closings during the coronavirus pandemic and vitriolic debates over public school teachings on race and sexuality. Pro-voucher advocates embraced those culture war fights, refocusing their efforts on red states where they painted public schools as out of step with parents values. Half of Republicans polled told Gallup in 2022 that they had very little or no confidence in public schools, up from 31% in 2019.

The American Federation for Children, which was previously led by Trumps Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, pushed vouchers in part by playing a big role in state legislative races. AFC ran ads attacking Republicans who opposed universal ESA expansion bills  often rural legislators whose constituents were more likely to rely on public schools  in states like Iowa, Tennessee, Texas and elsewhere. Schultz said the group targeted 71 incumbents around the country in 2022, and 40 of them lost their elections. This year, AFC plans to be involved in hundreds of races, he said.

AFCs national political arm has spent more than $7 million since 2020 after receiving $3 million from DeVos and her husband, $2 million from TikTok investor Jeff Yass, and $1.75 million from Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam and his wife, according to IRS records. DeVos and Haslam did not respond to requests for comment, while Yass said in a statement that school choice is the civil rights issue of our time and Im excited to see the issue getting the attention it deserves. AFC said it has also spent an additional $16 million through affiliated state political action committees and other groups.

In an internal presentation obtained by the progressive watchdog group Documented and provided to CNN, AFC boasted that it had deployed $250 million to advance school choice over the last 13 years, and that that spending had led to $25+ billion in government funding directed towards student choice. Those numbers are now even higher, Schultz said.

Charles Siler, an Arizona political consultant who worked as a lobbyist for two pro-voucher nonprofits before coming to oppose school privatization, said the recent victories for school choice were the result of a long, methodical effort by groups like AFC.

This isnt an overnight success, this is decades in intentional, strategic labor, Siler said. At a certain point youll hit a tipping point where public schools cannot afford to function.

Charles Siler worked as an Arizona lobbyist for two pro-voucher nonprofits, but now believes that the program is hurting public schools. - Jeremy Harlan/CNN

The push for universal vouchers comes as the Supreme Court has issued a series of rulings that bolstered state funding for religious schools. In 2002, the court ruled that states could create tuition voucher programs for religious schools, opening the door to programs like Arizonas. Two decades later, in 2022, the court expanded that decision by ruling that states that give vouchers to private schools cannot withhold them from religious schools.

Advocates for student choice argue that voucher programs lead to increases in student achievement. But several other studies have found that expansions of vouchers in some states had a negative impact on student test scores  as opposed to smaller, targeted programs.

One reason is that when voucher programs are universal or near-universal, more money goes to less academically rigorous schools, said Josh Cowen, a Michigan State University professor whos written a book on school vouchers.

Were not talking about the school in Dead Poets Society here, Cowen said. Were talking about schools run out of church basements.

Arizona led the way in universal vouchers

Arizona has long been ground zero in the fight over public support for private schools. The Grand Canyon State first adopted its Empowerment Scholarship Account program in 2011 for families of students with disabilities. State leaders gradually expanded the program over the years, adding in military families, students in low-performing public schools, and other groups.

But initial efforts to allow any family in the state to take advantage of the program floundered. In 2018, nearly two-thirds of Arizona voters rejected a universal ESA bill in a referendum. And when GOP Gov. Doug Ducey pushed the policy again in 2021, three Republican members of the state house joined Democrats to block it.

Those three holdouts were targeted by YouTube ads paid for by the American Federation for Children, according to Googles political ad database. When the legislature again considered a universal ESA bill in 2022, all three members flipped to support it, and Ducey signed it into law.

Since the new rules went into effect in September 2022, Arizonas ESA program has grown from 12,000 students to about 75,000. Families can spend the state money their public school district would have received for their childs education on private school or homeschooling. Most students receive about $7,000, while those with disabilities get significantly more.

Tom Horne, the Arizona superintendent of public instruction and a Republican elected official who supports the ESA program, argued that it gives families much-needed flexibility.

Its designed to empower parents to choose the school that best suits their childs needs, Horne said. No one could rationally be against that unless they are so immersed in ideology, and it has made them coldhearted with respect to students academic needs.

But unlike some other states that have adopted voucher programs, Arizona has no standards requiring private schools to be accredited or licensed by the state, or follow all but the most basic curriculum standards. That means there is no way to compare test scores in public schools to students in the ESA program.

Theres zero accreditation, theres zero accountability, and theres zero transparency, said Beth Lewis, a former teacher who leads an Arizona nonprofit that advocates against school privatization.

Beth Lewis, a former public school teacher, now leads Save Our Schools Arizona, a group that advocates against the states voucher program. - Jeremy Harlan/CNN

The state also allows families to spend the money not just on schools but on a wide variety of items that could be considered educational for homeschooled kids. Parents have been approved to use the taxpayer dollars to buy their children things like kayaks, trampolines, cowboy roping lessons and SeaWorld tickets. Horne said his office was now rejecting some purchases that would have been approved under previous administrations.

The program is costing considerably more than originally anticipated. When the bill to expand vouchers to all students passed in 2022, the legislatures budget committee estimated that it would only cost the state $64.5 million between July 2023 and June 2024, while noting that there was uncertainty about that figure.

But far more students joined the program than projected, and the universal expansion has actually cost the state about $332 million over the last year, a report released this month by the nonpartisan Grand Canyon Institute estimated.

The cost increases come as the state has grappled with a significant budget deficit. Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs proposed limiting voucher eligibility and mandating minimum educational standards and background checks at private schools receiving ESA money  but those proposals have gone nowhere in the GOP-controlled legislature.

One big reason why the program is costing so much: About half of the students participating never attended a public or charter school, according to the Arizona Department of Education, so the state had not been previously paying for their education. And only about a third of students in the program came directly from a public or charter school.

Wealthy communities are disproportionately benefiting, according to a CNN analysis of state education department and US Census data. Almost a third of the students whose families are receiving ESA funding live in zip codes with median household incomes of more than $100,000  even though only a fifth of the minors in the state live in those zip codes.

Youre enabling doctors, lawyers, bankers, management consultants who already had their children in private schools to get this subsidy that they were not entitled to before, said Samuel E. Abrams, the director of a University of Colorado research center on school privatization. This is costing taxpayers a lot of money that wasnt anticipated.

Schools accused of discrimination getting taxpayer funds

Some of the private schools that are among those receiving the most money from Arizonas ESA program have extreme beliefs or have been accused of discriminating against students.

State records that CNN obtained through a public records request, which have not been previously reported, show that about half of the money that went to private schools through the ESA program last year went to religious schools, the vast majority of which were Christian.

Some of the Christian schools that have raked in the most taxpayer funds publish statements of faith on their websites mandating that teachers and staff agree to declarations such as rejection of ones biological sex is a rejection of the image of God within that person and that homosexual behavior is offensive to God.

Dream City Christian School, the megachurch-affiliated school that is expanding, received more than $1.3 million in ESA funding in 2023  10 times what it was receiving before the universal expansion passed, and more than 95% of the private schools that received funding. The school operates a partnership with the advocacy group Turning Point USA, which works to organize conservative students on high school and college campuses. On its website, Dream City encourages applications by declaring that it will protect our campus from the infiltration of unethical agendas by rejecting all woke and untruthful ideologies being pushed on students. The school did not respond to requests for comment.

Dream City is just one example of Turning Points efforts to build a network of conservative Christian schools. During a recent video info session, Turning Point executives described how the program was restoring God as the foundation of our education at a time when exposure to all of the secular, really godless ideologies is on the rise.

Dream City Christian School was among the private schools receiving the most taxpayer funds through Arizonas ESA program last year. - CNN

On the other side of the Phoenix metro area, the private Valley Christian Schools received nearly $1.1 million in ESA funding last year despite facing allegations of LGBTQ discrimination in federal court. Valley Christian fired high school English teacher Adam McDorman after he voiced support for a student who came out as pansexual, McDorman alleged in a 2022 lawsuit. In an email that McDorman provided to CNN, the schools then-principal argued that the idea that it was possible to be both homosexual or otherwise sexually deviant and also a Christian was a hideous lie.

Public schools are barred from discriminating against students because of characteristics like their religion or sexuality, but no such rules cover private schools. In court documents, Valley Christian lawyers have argued that the school had the religious liberty to fire McDorman. The school declined to comment because the case is pending.

In an interview, McDorman said his former school taught creationism as a scientific fact, and whitewashed American history to downplay the harms of slavery. He was surprised to learn about the level of public funding it was receiving.

That amount of money is pretty staggering, McDorman said. They have so much taxpayer support  and no responsibility to treat their students with equal respect.

Public schools closing in Arizona

Even as Arizonas voucher expansion is draining money from the state budget and diverting it to conservative religious schools, critics say one of the most damaging long-term impacts could be the impact on public schools.

More than 24,000 students have directly left public or charter schools to join the ESA program, according to state data  taking with them hundreds of millions of dollars that previously flowed to those schools each year.

Even small reductions in enrollment can destabilize school budgets in Arizona, which spends less per-student on public education than nearly any other state in the US. Fewer students means less money coming in, while many fixed costs remain the same.

When kids leave those classrooms for private schools, bills still have to get paid, heaters have to stay on, buses have to run, teacher salaries remain present, Cowen, the Michigan State professor, said. So those schools do take a hit.

The Paradise Valley district, which covers a swath of northern Phoenix and the suburb of Scottsdale, closed two elementary schools and a middle school this year, with students leaving for the final time last month. Two of the three schools had an A rating in the states student performance letter grades, a distinction only about a third of Arizona schools have received.

An aerial view of Sunset Canyon Elementary School before it closed last month. - CNN

The district has seen declining enrollment for years, as rising house prices have reduced the numbers of families moving in, and new charter schools and private schools have opened in the surrounding area. Horne, the state superintendent, said that the occasional need to close a district school due to population shifts and other natural demographic trends is a decades-old phenomenon not related to the ESA program.

But school district officials say the expansion of universal ESAs also played a role in reducing enrollment, along with the other factors. According to state data, 456 students have directly left Paradise Valley public schools to join the ESA program  more than the enrollment at two of the three schools that closed. In addition, there are about 2,500 other students living in the district who are in the ESA program.

The reduction in funds from students leaving for ESAs  and the potential of more departures going forward  put the district over the edge of having to close three schools at once, argued Nelson, the local education activist.

While students and staff at the shuttered schools are being offered places at other schools in the district, the closings have been met with sadness and anger among some in the community. School board meetings were at times contentious, with local residents railing against the closures and parents holding rallies outside schools set to be shuttered.

Last month, dozens of former students and teachers gathered in the school gymnasium of one of the closing schools, Sunset Canyon Elementary, to say goodbye. As kids ran around and marveled at old yearbook photos, teachers exchanged hugs with students theyd taught years or decades ago.

Susie Francis, who has taught at Sunset Canyon since it first opened its doors in 1999, said it felt surreal for the school to be closing.

This school is so much more than just a building to people, its a home, Francis said, holding back tears. So many students have touched my heart over the years.

Felicia White helps her daughter Riley, a student at an Arizona public school that shut down last month, with her homework. - Jeremy Harlan/CNN

The closings are especially hard for students like 11-year-old Riley White, who has Down syndrome and struggles with change. Her school, Desert Springs Preparatory, is just around the block from her tidy cul-de-sac. Some staffers at the school have worked with Riley since she was a kindergartener, and she has a tight circle of friends who she calls her sisters, said her mother, Felicia White.

As Riley ran around her sun-baked backyard, White said she was considering leaving Arizona and moving her daughter somewhere with stronger backing for public schooling.

With the lack of support that gets put into our education system, other Arizona schools will also be forced to close in the coming years, White predicted. Sometimes I sit and I think, why am I still trying to school her in this state  when I could go school her in a state that puts a lot more emphasis on her education?

This story has been updated to include additional comment from the American Federation for Children on the groups political spending, sent to CNN post-publication.

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In its 91-year history, the State Bar of Arizona never had a Black person leading the organization as president until last June.

That president was me.

With one-year terms, the president of the State Bar is tasked with overseeing Arizona attorneys and judges, implementing new initiatives and ensuring the judicial system is honest and fair for everyone.

In the last year, the top priority was to increase diversity in the State Bar.

When named the first Black president of the State Bar, it was pertinent for me to ensure that the organization has people of all races, identities, backgrounds, ages and genders contributing ideas and making the organization welcoming to all.

Why diverse representation helps us all

Attorney Benjamin Taylor speaks at a press conference on behalf of his client, Ricky Barnes, outside Avondale City Hall in Avondale on Feb. 1, 2021.

When first joining the Bar, there were very few people of color as members and in leadership positions. It felt like a daunting challenge to serve on the leadership team, especially as a Black man.

But after joining the board and being named as their president six years later, change was in motion.

As a Black president leading the organization, my focus was to open the doors for many other lawyers and judges in Arizona who are Black, Indigenous or People of Color (BIPOC), and ensure they have a voice in the State Bar.

Representation in the law is key in making people of color feel seen, having increased opportunities and connecting with a like-minded community.

Representation also makes us better community members and more understanding lawyers, and it contributes to a well-rounded justice system. We see thousands of cases with no two looking alike and no two clients looking alike.

It is our duty to ensure we can see their perspective to offer them an honest and fair trial.

We're reaching out to young lawyers

Not only has BIPOC representation increased, but in the last year, we also have extended State Bar resources to law students at Arizona State University and the University of Arizona, creating a pipeline of younger lawyers for the State Bar.

These bright young men and women offer unique perspectives, innovative ideas and fingers on the pulse of todays modern legal issues.

Justice report: Calls out Black leaders as much as police

The State Bar of Arizona also has created programs and legal clinics to help low-income individuals who cannot afford an attorney.

With more than 25,000 judges and lawyers in the State Bar, many have volunteered their time to offer free legal advice to minority communities statewide.

Many of the individuals they serve are people in lower socioeconomic situations and minority groups.

Arizona's State Bar has more work to do

While we have elected the first Black president, extended resources to a more diverse group of people and are able to serve more BIPOC residents, there is still so much more work to be done in Arizona.

According to the National Association for Law Placement, in 2020, people of color only made up 26% of associates in U.S. law firms, and Black people only made up 4.5% of lawyers in the U.S.

While this is an increase from previous years, these are small fractions of the people that make up the entirety of the judicial system.

It is my goal as the outgoing president that the next president stepping into this role continues to increase diversity, equity and inclusion for all. Ted Schmidt will begin his term this week.

We are optimistic for the future of the organization and the future of justice in Arizona with the intelligent and diverse group of members that make up the State Bar of Arizona.

Benjamin Taylor is an attorney and outgoing president of the State Bar of Arizona. Reach him on X, formerly Twitter, @Bentaylorlawaz.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona State Bar is growing more diverse. Why that matters
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansans received multiple alerts on their phones Wednesday about an armed man in Morrilton.

Officials with the Arkansas Department of Public Safety said the multiple alerts were for the sake of clarification. The first alert went out without a space between the information about the armed man, who is a suspect in multiple killings, and the web address where more information could be found, meaning the link did not work.

Alabama man wanted in connection with four homicides across two states seen in Morrilton, police search underway

State officials said that because there was no space, people were not able to use the link, so a second message with the space in place was sent out.

Officials emphasized that the nature of the emergency made it important to notify all Arkansans as a matter of public safety.

Morrilton police and other law enforcement agencies are currently searching for an Alabama man wanted in connection with multiple out-of-state killings. The FBI notified Morrilton police after a vehicle used in the killings was spotted at a hotel in that city.

Cold Case Unit established at Arkansas Attorney Generals office

The suspect, 50-year-old Stacy Drake of Birmingham, Alabama, was not found at the hotel, and officials said they were unsure how he left. Investigators said they were able to identify Drake on hotel security camera footage.

The 5-foot 11-inch, 185-pound Drake is considered armed and dangerous. Officials said anyone who sees Drake should not approach but contact authorities by dialing 911 immediately.

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The world's largest international airport, King Salman International Airport, will open in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2030. The terminal is expected to house 6 giant runways worth more than $28 billion (over a trillion hryvnias).

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The airport will cover an area of more than 57 square kilometers, 12 of which will be allocated for retail outlets, so people can shop while waiting to board. This was reported by Metro.

The airport is being designed by Foster & Partners, which also worked on the Midtown bus terminal in New York City and the new airport in Marseille. It will combine the current terminals of King Khalid International Airport, which has been operating since 1983.

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Although the list of airlines that will operate at King Salman International Airport has not yet been announced, the construction is expected to create approximately 150,000 different jobs, from pilots to baristas. The new facility is estimated to handle 120 million passengers, with that number likely to increase to 185 million by 2050, and is part of an initiative to boost tourism in Riyadh.

"The airport project is in line with Saudi Arabia's vision to transform Riyadh into one of the top ten cities in the world and to contribute to a population growth of 15-20 million people by 2030," the official press release said.

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The largest airport in the world is currently Saudi Arabia's King Fahd International Airport, also known as Dammam Airport. Opened for commerce in 1999, it previously served as a US air base during the Gulf War and now provides connections to 43 destinations. More than 10 million passengers fly through the airport every year, and 37 airlines operate here. It is also the third-largest airport in Saudi Arabia by passenger numbers.

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Two federal court rulings on challenges to a rule requiring employers to accommodate pregnant workers are at odds over the inclusion of abortion in the rule. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images for A Better Balance)

A federal judge in Arkansas dismissed a lawsuit filed by 17 state attorneys general looking to stop a new rule that took effect Tuesday allowing workers time off and accommodations for abortions and other pregnancy-related health care.

Though the case was tossed, another federal judge in Louisiana determined earlier this week that Louisiana, Mississippi and the Catholic Conference of Bishops would not have to comply with the rule  at least temporarily.

Lawsuits filed this spring in Louisiana and Arkansas sought to halt implementation of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission rule that resulted from the 2022 passage of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act by Congress. The law requires employers to provide accommodations for known limitations  arising out of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

The law and the rule mean employers must grant time off or make other allowances for pregnant employees in the workplace. The rule cites lactation, potential pregnancy, miscarriage, infertility and fertility treatments, and having an abortion as scenarios where allowances should be made.

The legal disputes over the rule arose from the EEOCs inclusion of abortion in the regulation. All of the states involved in the lawsuits have laws or constitutional provisions banning almost all abortions. The Louisiana case combined a suit filed by the attorneys general of Louisiana and Mississippi with one filed by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, two Catholic diocesan organizations and the Catholic University of America.

The Arkansas lawsuit, filed in April, sought to halt implementation of the rule, arguing that it violated the U.S. Constitution and violated individual states sovereign immunity. The attorneys general asked the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas to declare that the EEOC had exceeded its authority by including abortion in the rule and to declare the regulation arbitrary, capricious, unlawful and invalid.

U.S. District Judge D.P. Marshall Jr.

On Friday, U.S. District Judge D.P. Marshall Jr., an Obama appointee, dismissed the Arkansas case, saying the attorneys general lacked standing to sue and havent shown a likelihood of irreparable harm, one of the standards by which the ability to sue is judged.

At bottom, the States havent made a compelling case for issuing a nationwide injunction of the entire EEOC regulation, Marshall wrote in his ruling.

The states joining Arkansas and Tennessee in the lawsuit were Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah and West Virginia.

This case presents a narrow disagreement over a few words, a disagreement that seems unlikely to flower into few, if any, real-world disputes, especially given the undisputed reach of the new Act and the unchallenged portions of the implementing regulation, Marshall wrote. The States fear of overreach by one branch of the federal government cannot be cured with overreach by another.

Marshall noted that the states that sued didnt challenge the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, nor did they challenge most of the new rule.

The States challenge only how the regulation addresses what the States call elective abortion, Marshall wrote, noting that the quarrel with the rule involves how it addresses accommodations connected with some abortions  some, not all. The States acknowledge that some pregnant women will need, and be entitled to, workplace accommodations in connection with an abortion.

U.S. District Judge David C. Joseph

By contrast, Josephs ruling accepted Louisianas and Mississippis contention that they would be irreparably harmed by enforcement of the rule and the Catholic plaintiffs argument that the rule violates their First Amendment right to free speech and freedom of religion.

Joseph, a Trump appointee, focused on the plaintiffs concerns about elective abortions in lawsuits filed in May in the Western District of Louisiana.

If Congress had intended to mandate that employers accommodate elective abortions under the PWFA, he wrote, it would have spoken clearly when enacting the statute, particularly given the enormous social, religious, and political importance of the abortion issue in our nation at this time (and, indeed, over the past 50 years).

The judge noted that bipartisan debate in Congress specifically mentioned that the PWFA did not refer to abortion.

Joseph ruled that the EEOC has exceeded its statutory authority to implement the PWFA and, in doing so, both unlawfully expropriated the authority of Congress and encroached upon the sovereignty of the States Plaintiffs.

Regarding the rules impact on the Catholic plaintiffs, Joseph wrote that it abridges their free speech and religious freedom rights by compelling them to act and speak in ways that conflict with their beliefs. He also said the EEOC failed to include the broad religious exemption provided by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

The injunction, he added, in no way limits, impedes or otherwise affects those covered employers who choose to implement employment policies or practices to provide leave or other workplace accommodation for the elective abortions of employees.

The court has left some pregnant workers who need abortion-related accommodations to fend for themselves, said Gaylynn Burroughs, vice president of Workplace Justice and Education at the NWLC.

In a statement to The Associated Press, Rachel Shanklin, National Womens Entrepreneurship Director for Small Business Majority, said even the limited ruling from Louisiana would have a big impact by making it more difficult  at least temporarily  for women in the workplace to access abortion care.

Dina Bakst, co-founder and president of the legal advocacy group A Better Balance, condemned the ruling in Louisiana, telling The AP it disregarded decades of legal precedent interpreting pregnancy-related medical conditions to include abortion.

She stressed, however, that the ruling does not mean workers rights under the PWFA have been taken away.

The post Arkansas federal judge dismisses states lawsuit over pregnant worker protections appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansas Game and Fish Commission biologists are asking for the publics help reporting turkeys and quail as the state enters a critical season for the birds.

AGFC officials said the period from June 1 to Aug. 31 is critical for observing turkey hens with poults and quail hens with chicks. Observers can log their sightings on the websites AGFC.com/TurkeySurveys or AGFC.com/QauilSurveys or by downloading and using the Survey123 app.

Arkansas ranks third in U.S. for Turkey production

AGFC turkey program coordinator Davi Moscicki said biologists would combine publicly provided information with other survey methods to get a better picture of the number of birds and reproduction success. The addition of the public was a recent development, he said.

These surveys have been going for more than 30 years using wildlife biologists and other professional staff, but the AGFC opened up participation to the general public about 5 years ago, Moscicki said.

Arkansas duck population hits record low in slow hunting season

Officials said that during the last five years, quail and turkey have shown larger broods, which they attributed to dry weather during nesting periods and targeted habitat work by AGFC.

Turkey reproduction, as well as quail reproduction, are heavily influenced by weather and some factors outside of the AGFCs control, but we can definitely hedge our bets even in bad years by supplying the birds with the right habitat, Moscicki said. When the right habitat is available and those other factors come together, populations can see recovery relatively quickly.

AGFC Quail Program coordinator Clint Johnson said the public participation in the survey also allows the agency to identify new areas where populations may be rebounding.

Interactive Map: Hummingbird migration is underway. Heres what you can do to attract them

Additional information on AGFC turkey and quail management is available at AGFC.com/Turkey and AGFC.com/Quail.

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  During its special session Wednesday, the Arkansas House passed a resolution opposing an abortion amendment that organizers are trying to put before voters.

The proposed amendment is still in the process of gathering signatures to qualify to put the measure on the November 2024 ballot, but House Resolution 1003, filed by Rep. Ryan Rose (R-Van Buren), is encouraging all registered voters to vote against it.

Will Arkansas have abortion on the ballot this year?

The resolution passed on a voice vote, but not before some lawmakers spoke out against it. Rep. Andrew Collins (D-Little Rock) said he was against the resolution and said the decision on the amendment should be left to voters.

Theyre our bosses, Collins said. We dont usually tell them what to do with their vote in elections. But here we are doing that.

Speaking against the resolution, Rep. Andrew Collins calls it arrogant and says hes a no vote because the issue should be left up to voters.

Theyre our bosses. We dont usually tell them what to do with their vote in elections. But here we are doing that. @KARK4News https://t.co/WsOZKQOfSz  Samantha Boyd (@samanthaboyd98) June 19, 2024

The proposed amendment would prevent Arkansas from restricting access to abortion up to 18 weeks after conception and would allow for abortions after that time in cases of rape, incest, fatal fetal anomaly or to save the life of the mother.

Arkansas restricted all abortions after a trigger law went into effect following the United States Supreme Court overturning Roe vs. Wade in June of 2022. The only exception allowing the procedure now in Arkansas is to save the life of the mother.

Proposed Arkansas constitutional amendment would expand abortion access

The Arkansas abortion amendment measure has faced a number of challenges. Organizers behind the proposal first had to make three submissions to the attorney generals office before the ballot language and name were certified.

After that certification, the groups behind the amendment, For AR People & Arkansans for Limited Government, had to start collecting the more than 90,700 signatures required to get the bill on the November ballot.

In a statement Tuesday after it was first filed, For AR People called the resolution a clear attempt by lawmakers to weaponize private, intimate healthcare decisions that should be left between patients and their doctors.

Attorney General Tim Griffin certifies Arkansas Abortion Amendment ballot language

Those efforts have faced stiff opposition throughout the state. A group called Arkansans for Common Sense was started to ask voters not to sign the petitions trying to get the measure on the ballot while multiple county quorum courts passed resolutions declaring themselves pro-life.

In one case, Saline County saw Justice of the Peace Rick Bellinger even sponsor a resolution specifically opposing the proposed amendment.

Arkansans form group against abortion amendment ballot proposal

Three Saline County justices sponsor resolution opposing proposed abortion amendment

Organizers have until July 5 to submit the signatures they have gathered for review.

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Rep. Brit McKenzie, R-Rogers, takes notes at the Arkansas Capitol on June 18, 2024, while people speak against a resolution he sponsored that opposes an education ballot initiative. (Mary Hennigan/Arkansas Advocate)

In split decisions Tuesday, an Arkansas House committee approved two resolutions opposing proposed constitutional amendments targeting abortion access and education. The measures supporters decried lawmakers actions as interfering with the direct democracy process.

It breaks my heart that were here now and trying to push citizens of Arkansas to vote against something because you all dont agree with it, said Barry Jefferson, NAACP Arkansas State Conference president. We have a problem in our country right now. Instead of letting voters vote and letting voters make the decision, we try to force it down their throats by giving false information. That is painful.

Barry Jefferson, president of the Arkansas branch of the NAACP

Jefferson was one of seven people to speak against House Resolution 1006, which urges voters to oppose the misleadingly titled Educational Rights Amendment of 2024. Jefferson is also president of For AR Kids, the ballot question committee backing the amendment, which aims to hold private schools receiving state funding to the same standards as public schools.

Although the resolutions are nonbinding and neither ballot initiative has yet qualified for the November ballot, Rep. Brit McKenzie, R-Rogers, said he filed HR 1006 to give a sense of the House. McKenzie told the House Management Committee Tuesday that while he opposes the ballot measure, he does not oppose Arkansans right to collect signatures to amend the state constitution.

That is a tool in the toolbox, and I do not begrudge anybody for exercising that right, he said. What I do have an issue with is those who exercise it under the false pretenses or guise of something being a solution when in reality it would create more problems.

In addition to creating equitable standards for private and public schools, the proposed constitutional amendment would also guarantee voluntary universal access to pre-K for 3- and 4-year-olds, after-school and summer programming, quality special education and assistance for children in families within 200% of the Federal Poverty Line ($62,400 for a family of four).

McKenzie said hes concerned that the measures supporters have not provided information about what these new programs would cost or how they would be paid for. For AR Kids representatives said they have a team of economists working on an estimate, which will be provided ahead of the election.

The proposed education amendment stems from the creation of the Educational Freedom Account program through the LEARNS Act, a 2023 law that makes sweeping changes to the states education system. The school voucher program allows state funding to be used for allowable education expenses, including private school tuition. It is being phased in over three school years; this coming year is the second one.

Let us know what you think...

Critics argue the program is unfair because private schools receiving state funding dont have to follow the same requirements as their public counterparts, such as admitting all students, providing transportation and administering certain standardized tests.

The LEARNS Act does require private schools to administer approved annual exams for EFA students.

Why this is truly misleading is because were expanding rights at the cost of choice, McKenzie. We have expanded choice significantly with the LEARNS Act, and I think its important that we stay the course, that we do whats right for the students in the state of Arkansas and give them the ability to find the education thats best fit for them, their learning environments and their families.

Supporters of the education amendment pushed back on the resolutions assertions that the measure would infringe on religious liberty and jeopardize teacher pay raises. Stand Up Arkansas founder Steve Grappe also rebutted the assertion that the measure is misleading because the Arkansas Attorney General approved the ballot title as not misleading in March.

But yet the General Assembly is going to try to tell the people not to vote for this and use misleading statements all through their resolution to try to get it passed, Grappe said. I call on the people of Arkansas to wake up, to stand up, to see the things that our General Assembly is trying to push down our throat that were not for.

The House Management Committee on Tuesday also heard limited debate on House Resolution 1003, which encourages Arkansans to vote against the proposed Arkansas Abortion Amendment. The resolution is supported by 48 House Republicans, including lead sponsor Rep. Ryan Rose of Fort Smith.

I believe and many others do as well that this amendment would legalize abortion on demand up to five months, Rose said. It goes against the values of the majority of Arkansans, which they hold dear, and prioritizing the sanctity of life from conception.

Arkansans for Limited Government, the ballot question committee backing the amendment, issued a statement Tuesday calling HR1003 a clear attempt by lawmakers to weaponize private, intimate healthcare decisions that should be left between patients and their doctors.

The extremists in the Arkansas legislature, once again, have proved that they are uncaring, untruthful, and undemocratic, the statement reads. This Resolution misleads the public about the contents of the Arkansas Abortion Amendment and interferes in Arkansass constitutionally protected democratic process.

Abortion has been illegal in Arkansas, except to save the pregnant persons life, since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022.

If the proposed amendment qualifies for the ballot and is approved by voters, it would not allow government entities to prohibit, penalize, delay or restrict abortion services within 18 weeks of fertilization.

The proposal would also permit abortion services in cases of rape, incest, a fatal fetal anomaly or to protect the pregnant females life or physical health, and it would nullify any of the states existing provisions of the Constitution, statutes and common law that conflict with it.

The sponsors of this Resolution know that the Arkansas Abortion Amendment will pass, AFLGs statement reads. They have decided that lying to the public is their best chance at stopping it. Reasonable Arkansans can see through this politicking.

Supporters of both the abortion and education measures must collect 90,704 signatures by July 5 to qualify the November ballot.

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The post Arkansas lawmakers approve resolutions opposing proposed constitutional amendments appeared first on Arkansas Advocate.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Lawmakers are one step closer to passing personal and property tax cuts for Arkansans on the second day of the special session, but not without push-back.

The bills advanced through the legislature Tuesday and look to cut taxes by nearly $500 million for people making more than $25,000 a year and cut property taxes by $50 million.

Tax cuts, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission funding take priority in June special session

Both bills passed with overwhelming support, but some lawmakers like Rep. Denise Garner (D-Fayetteville) spoke out against them, saying this undercuts critical services for Arkansans.

Arkansas has the highest maternal mortality rate in the nation, the second highest teen pregnancy, and were third highest in infant mortality, Garner said. We still have years-long delays for those with disabilities.

Arkansas tax cut proposal met with opposition, people say money should be spent elsewhere

Sen. Ben Gilmore (R-Crossett) said this will not impact any programs.

Bottom line is this: were not cutting anything were not cutting anything in state government, Gilmore said. In fact, the budget increased 1.76% that means no program got cut.

Officials with the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration claim the proposed tax cuts would save individual taxpayers $256 million a year and businesses $66 million per year.

The DFA broke down those individual savings as ranging from $40 to $1,131 per taxpayer, depending on their income level.

The special session is set to continue on Wednesday.

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CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill.  A Crystal Lake man was arrested and charged with possessing child pornography and grooming, according to the McHenry County Sheriffs Office (MCSO).

Deputies said members of the MCSO Criminal Investigations Division served a search warrant in the 200 block of South Dole Avenue Tuesday for Nicholas S. Kachiroubas, who was taken into custody and later charged with possession of child pornography (class 2 felony) and grooming (class 4 felony).

Deputies said The National Center of Missing and Exploited Children gave the MCSO information in April 2024 letting them know about what they called online enticement of children for sexual acts.

DNA test confirms arm found on Waukegan beach belonged to murder victim Sade Robinson

After the MCSO received the information, deputies said they launched an investigation that led to the identification of Kachiroubas, and his alleged involvement in possession of child sexual abuse material (child pornography) and grooming.

Kachiroubas is currently awaiting his next court hearing in the McHenry County Jail.

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An arrest made in the killing of a man who was delivering groceries in Opa-Locka

More than a week after a grocery delivery in Opa-Locka quickly devolved into a murder, police have arrested the alleged gunman.

On Tuesday, Dawayen Bendross was charged with second-degree murder with a weapon. The 22-year-old remains in Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

On the morning of June 8, Alejandro Linares, 40, was delivering groceries in the 1700 block of Northwest 142nd Lane, an arrest report read.

As Linares got out of his car, Bendross approached  pulling out a Glock .45 and shooting him in the chest. Its not clear why he shot Linares and theres no indication that they knew each other.

After his arrest Tuesday, Bendross refused to speak to detectives.
(WFRV)  Authorities from the Trempealeau County Sheriffs Office made an arrest in an alleged homicide case stemming from May.

The suspect, 61-year-old Todd E. Gieck of Melrose was arrested on charges of First Degree Reckless Homicide, Recklessly Endangering Safety and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.

26-year-old Wisconsin man dead after veering off highway and crashing into trees

Officers made the arrest just after 4:30 p.m. on June 18, and Gieck has been and will continue to be held at the Trempealeau County Jail, according to a release.

The reported homicide occurred around 8:30 p.m. on May 15 near Highway 53 and County Road TT in Ettrick. The alleged victim, 36-year-old Kyle Dahl is an Ettrick resident.

Wisconsin woman arrested for aiding attempted homicide suspects escape who remains at large

The case is still under investigation by the Trempealeau County, Jackson County and Lacrosse County Sheriffs Offices, as well as by the Wisconsin State Patrol and Department of Criminal Investigations.

No additional details are available at the moment.

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He was arrested on drug charges in Lancaster. Hours later, he was dead. His family wants answers

Lawyer Brad Gage is joined by the family of Eugene Youngblood at a news conference in Woodland Hills on Wednesday, when they announced the filing of a damage claim over Youngblood's death while in the L.A. County Sheriff's Department's custody. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

Four hours after Eugene Wesley Youngblood was arrested earlier this month on drug charges, the 42-year-old man was found dead in the Lancaster sheriff's station jail.

Now his family is looking for answers, and say Youngblood was a healthy man with no underlying health issues. When he was taken into custody, his family said they were told he'd be cited and released within a few hours.

Instead, Youngblood died in his jail cell, and his family says authorities have offered no answers as to what happened.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said in a statement that the death is still under investigation, and that investigators so far have found no evidence that force was used by deputies when Youngblood was arrested, or while he was in custody.

"The Department thoroughly investigates each in-custody death for policy and procedure issues and assessment of care," the statement said.

On Tuesday, an attorney representing the family filed a claim against the county, and said sheriff's officials have ignored the family's request for body camera video, police reports and other information to piece together what happened to Youngblood while he was in custody. The claim does not cite a dollar amount but says the family is seeking "general, special and punitive damages."

Read more: Fontana police got him to admit to a murder that never happened. How is this possible?

Brad Gage, an attorney representing the family, said family members have also learned of concerning details, including allegations that Youngblood had bruising on his face at the time of his death.

"He went into the Lancaster jail a perfectly young healthy young man and about four hours later he was dead," Gage said. "We don't know why he was dead."

According to the Sheriff's Department, a final autopsy report is pending.

Department records indicate Youngblood was arrested at about 5:30 p.m. on June 5.

Vanessa Larry, Youngblood's niece, said Wednesday during a news conference that she called the sheriff's station at about 9:30 p.m. that day, asking if she could pick up Youngblood's belongings.

The deputy she spoke to, however, told her there was no need for her to come to the station because her uncle in in custody for a misdemeanor and would probably be cited and released.

"He was already deceased," she said. "I found out the next day. They never even let me see his body. I just want justice for my uncle."

Gage and family members said Youngblood's family was told he was arrested on misdemeanor drug charges.

Online sheriff records, however, state Youngblood was booked on a felony charge.

In a statement, the agency said Youngblood was arrested on suspicion of possession of narcotics for sale.

Read more: Their daughter killed herself with a deputy's gun. They're still looking for answers

Youngblood was found unresponsive in his bunk at the Lancaster station jail by a deputy doing a routine security check, according to the sheriff's statement, and deputies administered two doses of naloxone until paramedics with the Los Angeles County Fire Department arrived. Naloxone is a medication used to reverse the effects of a possible overdose.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, according to sheriff's records.

Sheriff officials said an autopsy is still pending, but said there were no signs of trauma, or force being used, on Youngblood at the jail.

Gage and his family said there is no indication Youngblood was taken to a hospital.

"Our understanding is he went from the jail to the morgue," Gage said.

Larry said she was never given a reason why the naloxone was administered to her uncle.

Gage also said family members never saw Youngblood use drugs, and they had concerns regarding the bruising on his face that family members saw when they identified his body, "as if he had been punched in the face."

"He should not be dead at this point in time," Youngblood's sister, Gina Youngblood, said during the Wednesday morning news conference. "We just want answers."

Family members said Youngblood was also wearing jewelry and carrying a significant amount of cash when he walked out of Larry's home that day.

When they recovered his belongings, they said, jewelry appeared to be missing and less than $2 in cash was returned.

"I know he had more money because I seen him before he left the house," Larry said.

Sheriff's officials said personal property and evidence was collected in connection with the investigation, which is still ongoing.

Gage said the family is hoping to obtain deputies' body camera footage and reports and jailhouse security video to shed light on what happened to Youngblood that day.

"If you don't have the answers, you don't seem to get justice," he said, "and the family can't get peace."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
First Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel-General Karim Valiyev, has started his visit to Serbia at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Serbia, Colonel-General Milan Moysilovic, Azernews reports, citing the Defence Ministry of Azerbaijan

First, the monument of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was visited, a wreath was placed in front of it, and his memory was commemorated in Tasmaydan Park located in Belgrade. Then the statue of Serbian poet and writer Milorad Pavic was visited, flowers were placed in front of it, and respect was shown.

The official welcoming ceremony of the Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel-General Karim Valiyev, was held at the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Serbia. After the ceremonial passage in front of the honor guard, the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Serbia were played.

Colonel-General K. Valiyev had a meeting with his Serbian counterpart.

At the meeting, the prospects for the development of military cooperation were discussed, a wide range of opinions were exchanged on a number of issues of mutual interest.

After the dinner, Colonel-General K. Valiyev met with Bratislav Gasic, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Serbia. During the meeting, discussions were held on cooperation between the two countries in the fields of military, military-technical, and military education.

It should be noted that Kamil Khasiyev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Serbia, also participated in the meetings.

The visit of the Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijani Army to Serbia continues.
Austrian Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer has stated that Ukraine's attacks on Russian territory are permissible under international law. In this way, he disavowed the statements of the country's Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner, who claimed that Kyiv's allies had "crossed a red line" by permitting it.

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Nehammer said this in an interview with the Swiss media outlet NZZ. "This discussion is heading in the wrong direction politically, and it is a pity that the emphasis is being placed in this way. Under international law, such attacks on Russia are permissible," he emphasized.

The politician emphasized that if Russia stops its aggression, the West's military assistance to Ukraine will "automatically decrease." However, if the Europeans give in now, it may encourage the Russian occupiers to go even further than they are already doing.

The chancellor emphasized that the EU "stands unitedly on the side of Ukraine because Russia cannot wage war in Europe to change borders." He also added that Austria, although a neutral country, as an EU member supports the common foreign and security policy of the Union and "demonstrates solidarity when it comes to sanctions and money for Ukraine."

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"We do not provide military assistance ourselves. But Austria recognizes that other countries do so so that Ukraine can defend itself. Our neutrality can be preserved only if we defend it," said Nehammer.

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Astronauts stuck in space at least another week as Boeing and NASA troubleshoot Starliner spacecraft issues

Astronauts stuck in space at least another week as Boeing and NASA troubleshoot Starliner spacecraft issues

Two astronauts will be stuck on the International Space Station for at least another week as experts at NASA and Boeing struggle to fix their spacecraft.

Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore arrived on the ISS on June 6 after a successful Boeing Starliner launch. Expected to only stay a week, the two will not be arriving on Earth before June 26, NASA and Boeing officials said in a Tuesday press conference.

The Boeing Starliner is facing several mechanical problems. En route to the station, the crew reported problems with five thrusters and four helium leaks. A fifth helium leak has since cropped up. Crews are working to make sure its safe before the astronauts are put back on and return home.

This delay comes after NASA and Boeing crews announced June 22 as their return date.

We want to give our teams a little bit more time to look at the data, do some analysis, and make sure were really ready to come home, Steve Stich, NASAs Commercial Crew Program manager, said on Tuesday.

Suni Williams, pictured, gives a tour of the International Space Station (ISS) on June 8. Williams and Butch Wilmore will remain on the ISS until at least June 26, NASA officials said (NASA)

Stich said they do not see a scenario where Starliner is not going to be able to bring Butch and Suni home.

Crews will attempt to land in the White Sands area of New Mexico next week. If the crew cannot make the June 26 landing, the next prime opportunity will be on July 2, .

Dana Weigel, manager of NASAs International Space Station Program, said the crew is feeling positive.

They love Starliner, they love being in the vehicle, they love being on ISS, Weigel said on Tuesday. I think, you know, if you ask Butch and Suni, they might want to stay for a long period of time.

Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager for the Commercial Crew Program at Boeing, said the crew is taking advantange of the extra time.

I dont think a lot of us dont look at that as a delay, Nappi said. We look at that as an opportunity, and in this case, privilege to stay on station and do more work.

Butch Wilmore (left) and Williams (right) wave just before taking off in the Boeing Starliner spacecraft on June 5. Now, officials say their return to Earth will be delayed until at least June 26 (Getty Images)

Boeings CST-100 Starliner, with Williams and Wilmore onboard, lifted off from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on June 5. After a 24-hour flight, they successfully docked on the ISS.

Boeing hopes Starliner will compete with SpaceXs Crew Dragon capsule, which has been NASAs only vehicle for sending ISS crew members to orbit from the US since 2020.

This mission follows years of other challenges Boeing has faced with Starliner.

In 2019, an unmanned aircraft saw a test failure with dozens of software glitches, design problems and management issues. Three years later, a repeat unmanned test successfully landed on the ISS.
Attempted murder of Kazakh opposition journalist in Kyiv: President of Kazakhstan will contribute to investigation

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, commenting on the attack on Kazakh opposition journalist Aidos Sadykov in Kyiv on 18 June, said that if necessary, the official authorities of Kazakhstan are ready to join the investigation.

Source: website of the president of Kazakhstan

Details: Tokayev stressed that Kazakhstan has taken a course to strengthen the rule of law, and his principled position is aimed at the fact that law and order should prevail in the state.

The president of the Republic of Kazakhstan also instructed the diplomatic department and law enforcement agencies to send official requests to the Ukrainian side.

Quote from Tokayev: "All conflicts and disagreements in our society should be resolved exclusively in the legal field, based on current legislation, in accordance with the main international norms. It is from this perspective that the crime that took place yesterday in Kyiv against a citizen of Kazakhstan, Aidos Sadykov, should be viewed.

I have instructed the diplomatic department and law enforcement agencies to send official requests to the Ukrainian side regarding this serious incident. If necessary, Kazakhstan's official authorities are ready to join the investigation to assist in identifying the truth."

Background:

In Kyiv, in the Shevchenkivskyi District, on the afternoon of 18 June, an unknown person approached a car and shot at Kazakh opposition journalist Aidos Sadykov, who was in the car.

The wife of opposition Kazakh journalist Aidos Sadykov, in a comment to Ukrainska Pravda, said that her husband is in intensive care in serious condition. She is also convinced that Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was involved in the murder attempt.

For reference: Aidos and Natalya Sadykov moved from Kazakhstan to Kyiv in 2014. Criminal charges have been brought against Aidos Sadykov in Kazakhstan which he says are politically motivated.

The Sadykovs obtained refugee status in Ukraine and ran their own YouTube channel, Base (). They are critical of the Kazakh authorities and oligarchs and were supportive of the protests that took place in Kazakhstan in 2022.

The Kazakh authorities placed Aidos and Natalya Sadykov on the wanted list in the autumn of 2023, accusing them of inciting hatred.

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Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird held a news conference at the Polk County Sheriffs Office June 18, 2024 announcing the creation of the cold case unit within the AG's office. (Photo courtesy the Iowa Attorney General's Office)

Attorney General Brenna Bird has announced the creation of a cold case unit within the state office dedicated to investigating unsolved murders in Iowa.

At a news conference at the Polk County Sheriffs Office on Tuesday, Bird said the new unit, to be officially launched July 1, will consist of three full-time investigators and one prosecutor dedicated to solving more than 400 unsolved murders in Iowa. The staff will work with the local law enforcement agencies where the cases originated to bring a fresh perspective and seek answers for families, according to a news release.

Bird, serving her first term as attorney general after defeating longtime Democratic Attorney General Tom Miller in 2022, said that she made it a priority to build a cold case unit when campaigning for the office. She thanked the state legislature for granting us the budget to make it happen, and said that the new team would be focused on detecting new leads in unresolved murder investigations.

My promise to families of Iowa cold case victims is this: we will never give up, we will never stop searching, and we will never lose hope, Bird said. If even one case is solved, it is all worth it. No one should get away with murder.

Steve Ponsetto, a retired Division of Criminal Investigation agent and state trooper, will serve as the lead for the unit. He said the investigators will be tasked with reviewing homicides, missing persons as well as cases involving unidentified human remains in cases where local law enforcement have hit dead ends in investigations, according to reporting from Radio Iowa.

Justice for victims, answers for families, accountability for the perpetrator  these are the goals for this cold case initiative, he said.

Iowans are encouraged to contact Birds office if they have information on cold cases  tips can be submitted by emailing coldcase@ag.iowa.gov or calling the office at 1-800-242-5100.

The post Attorney General Brenna Bird announces new cold cases unit appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
A sign outside the Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and United States Courthouse in Montgomery, Alabama seen on January 24, 2023. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

Attorneys in an ongoing lawsuit against the state over Alabamas gender affirming care for minors ban turned over a document Tuesday to a federal judge in an investigation of allegations of judge shopping.

U.S. District Judge Liles C. Burke ordered the lawyers to turn over the Q&A document, which the attorneys said was used to prepare the lawyers for questions from a three-judge panel investigating allegations that the attorneys manipulated the random assignment of cases to seek a judge favorable to their case.

The attorneys have lodged objections to the production of the document, arguing that it is covered by attorney-client privilege. Burke wants the document for an in camera review.

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Respondents submit the Q&A Document to confirm that their attorney-client privileged communications with their counsel were proper, to resolve this collateral issue as promptly as possible, and to dispense with the reputationally harmful allegations that they sought legal advice in furtherance of a crime or fraud, the attorneys for the respondents wrote.

The plaintiffs sued Alabama in 2022 over a law making it a felony to prescribe hormones and puberty blockers in gender-affirming care. Burke, who heard the case, initially ruled for the plaintiffs and blocked the state law. But a three-judge panel of the 11th Circuit overturned his ruling last year. The plaintiffs are seeking a full review of the decision by the circuit.

Multiple challenges to the law were filed after Gov. Kay Ivey signed the bill into law in 2022. After multiple transfers of the cases, the attorneys withdrew the case and later refiled it. Burke said the moves gave the appearance of judge shopping, which the investigative panel said had occurred in a report in October.

In a separate Tuesday filing, the attorneys also objected to Burkes order to turn over the document, objecting to the judges portraying of the panels findings.

Even if the one or two narrow examples cited by the panel were really inconsistencies and apparent misrepresentations (they are not), they do not support or justify this Courts all-encompassing claim that the Panel unanimously discredited the Walker Respondents testimony or otherwise reject[ed] their testimony as unworthy of belief, they wrote.

The attorneys also pushed back against a Burke claim that an attorney had committed perjury before the panel. In an October report from the panel the judges wrote that one attorney had deliberately misled the panel about a phone call to a judges chamber, which Burke connected to perjury.

There is no basis to conclude that no reasonable person could believe in good faith that he potentially perjured himself, Burke wrote. Likewise, there is no basis to conclude that an in camera review of the Q&A document would surely fail to turn up evidence that he intentionally lied to the court.

The attorneys wrote that the claim of perjury is not supported by facts and referenced an earlier order. They also wrote that the panel did not wholly discredit their testimony and wrote that claims of a lack of candor were limited to one footnote.

To be clear, however, Walker counsels candor on the whole is concerning, the panel wrote in a footnote.

They wrote that claims of a prima-facie case only exists because of the panels findings, which had due-process violations. They wrote that some were denied a right to counsel and others were excluded from proceedings.

Respondents continue to steadfastly maintain that they testified truthfully and honestly before the Panel and in subsequent submissions to this Court. There is no basis for this Court to assert that the Panel disbelieved or discredited Respondents testimony or otherwise engaged in any purported fraud on the Court, they wrote.

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The post Attorneys in transgender medical case turn over document but maintain objections appeared first on Alabama Reflector.
Action News Jax has learned that a high-profile member of Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegans administration has resigned.

Action News Jaxs Ben Becker has learned that Audrey Gibson resigned as the head of the city grants division last week.

Gibson was appointed to the position by Deegan in September 2023.

She was a former mayoral campaign rival of Deegans and served in the Florida House and Senate from 2002 to 2022.

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Becker spoke to Gibson on Wednesday morning and while she didnt give any specifics about her departure she did give him a statement that reads, I enjoyed my time in the grants office and taking information on how city government runs and I am moving on to my next adventure.

The Mayors office issued the following statement:

We are grateful for Audreys contributions to our administration during a productive and history-making first year, as well as her decades-long career serving the people of Jacksonville. We wish Audrey the best in her future endeavors.

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Australian opposition puts nation's first nuclear power plants in its energy plan ahead of elections

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton unveils details of proposed nuclear energy plan as Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor, left, looks on during a press conference at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Offices in Sydney, Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Australia's main opposition party has announced plans to build Australia's first nuclear power plants by 2037, arguing the government's policies for decarbonizing the economy with renewable energy sources including solar, wind turbines and green hydrogen would not work. (Bianca De Marchi/AAP Image via AP)

MELBOURNE, Australia (AP)  Australias main opposition party on Wednesday announced plans to build Australias first nuclear power plants as early as 2035, arguing the governments policies for decarbonizing the economy with renewable energy sources including solar, wind turbines and green hydrogen would not work.

The policy announcement ensures the major parties will be divided on how Australia curbs its greenhouse gas emissions at elections due within a year. The parties havent gone to an election with the same carbon reduction policies since 2007.

Im very happy for the election to be a referendum on energy, on nuclear, on power prices, on lights going out, on who has a sustainable pathway for our country going forward, opposition leader Peter Dutton told reporters.

Seven government-owned reactors would be built on the sites of aging coal-fired electricity plants in five of Australias six states, Dutton said. The first two would be built from 2035-to-2037 and the last in the 2040s. The estimated costs would be announced at a later date, he said.

The current center-left government has rejected nuclear power generation in Australia as too expensive. Too many coal-fired generators would have been decommissioned before nuclear power could fill the gap.

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen accused the conservative opposition Liberal Party of serving Australias influential coal and gas industry lobbies.

Its not really an announcement. We know that Mr. Dutton wants to slow down the rollout of renewables and he wants to introduce the most expensive form of energy thats slow to build, Bowen told reporters.

But today, weve seen no costs, weve seen no gigawatts, weve seen no detail. This is a joke. Its a serious joke because it threatens our transition from fossil fuels, Bowen added.

Bowens Labor Party came to power in the 2022 elections promising deeper cuts to Australias greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 than the previous coalition government had committed to.

The previous Liberal Party-led government promised to reduce emissions by between 26% and 28% below 2005 levels by the end of the decade.

Labor promised a 43% reduction and the Parliament enshrined that target in law, creating difficulties for any future government that wanted to reduce it and offering certainty for investors.

Dutton has ruled out announcing a new 2030 target before the next election. But the major parties have agreed on a net-zero emissions target by 2050.

Dutton said Labor could not reach its 2030 target with a policy toward relying solely on renewable energy.

A Liberal Party-led government would use nuclear power, renewable energy sources and significant amounts of gas, Dutton said.

I want to make sure that the Australian public understands today that we have a vision for our country to deliver cleaner electricity, cheaper electricity and consistent electricity, Dutton said.

Australia has historically been one of the worlds worst greenhouse gas emitters on a per capita basis because of its heavy reliance on abundant reserves of cheap coal and gas.

Constant conflict between the major parties over the past 17 years on how to reduce emissions led to a carbon tax introduced by a Labor Party government in 2012 being repealed by a Liberal Party-led government in 2014.

Australias only reactor has produced nuclear isotopes for medical use in the Sydney suburb of Lucas Heights since 1958.

Dutton said the country could only now consider introducing atomic power generation because the major parties had agreed in 2019 to the AUKUS partnership with the United States and Britain which will deliver Australia a fleet of submarines powered by U.S. nuclear technology.
Karl Nehammer, Chancellor of neutral Austria, has called it permissible for Ukraine to use weapons provided by its Western allies to attack targets in Russia.

Source: Nehammer in an interview with Swiss newspaper NZZ, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The Austrian chancellor was asked whether he agreed with the remarks made by Klaudia Tanner, Austria's Defence Minister and his ally in the Osterreichische Volkspartei (Austrian People's Party), that the West was crossing a red line by allowing Ukraine to use its weapons to strike Russian territory.

"This discussion points in the wrong direction politically, and it is a shame that the focus is being placed in this way. Under international law, such attacks on Russia are permissible," he noted.

The chancellor added that if Moscow stops its aggression against Ukraine, military aid to Kyiv from Western countries will automatically decrease.

"If the Europeans give in, it could encourage Russian generals to go even further than they are already doing," Nehammer stressed.

Background:

Earlier, after a fierce debate, the Austrian government pledged 2 million in funding for mine clearance equipment in Ukraine.

Before that, there had been a debate in Austria about the allocation of these funds. Austria's Defence Minister Klaudia Tanner opposed state involvement in mine clearance in Ukraine until the end of hostilities, considering it a violation of constitutional neutrality. Tanner believed that mine clearance assistance should be provided only after the war was over.

The opposition far-right Freiheitliche Partei Osterreich (FPO or Freedom Party of Austria) also opposed any Austrian involvement in helping Ukraine with demining.

Instead, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen called for immediate assistance to Ukraine with humanitarian mine clearance.

Ukraine has previously asked Austria to help with mine clearance efforts. Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this, among other things, during his address to members of the lower chamber of the Austrian parliament.

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The author of a new Donald Trump book who has spoken out about the former presidents severe memory issues offered some alarming examples on Tuesday.

Ramin Setoodeh, who interviewed Trump six times after he left office in 2021, told CNNs Kaitlan Collins that there were points during those sessions when Trump seemed to think he still had some presidential powers.

There was one day where he told me he needed to go upstairs to deal with Afghanistan, even though he clearly didnt, he said.

Collins appeared stunned.

He told you that, while you were interviewing him at Trump Tower, he told you he needed to go upstairs to deal with Afghanistan? she asked.

With the, quote, the Afghanistan, is how he referred to it, said Setoodeh, who is a co-editor-in-chief at Variety.

Setoodeh: Trump seemed to think he still had some foreign policy powers. There was one day where he told me he needed to go upstairs to deal with Afghanistan even though he clearly didnt pic.twitter.com/e17xnz3okg  Acyn (@Acyn) June 19, 2024

In another instance, he said Trump told an easily debunked story about his first run for office.

He confidently told me, and declared, that Joan Rivers voted for him when he ran for president, Setoodeh said. And Joan Rivers died in 2014.

Trump did not appear on a ballot until 2016.

Author who interviewed Trump six times: There were some cognitive questions he would from time to time become confused. He confidently told me that Joan Rivers voted for him when he ran for President and she died 2014. pic.twitter.com/QKf7y8dWEv  Acyn (@Acyn) June 19, 2024

Setoodeh also confirmed that Trump was meandering and confusing during interviews, and did not remember being interviewed by Setoodeh previously despite their multiple conversations.

He goes from one story to the next. He struggles with the chronology of events. He seems very upset that he wasnt respected by certain celebrities in the White House. And then hed go to a story about The Apprentice, he said, adding that these issues make it very challenging to interview the former president.

Setoodehs book, Apprentice in Wonderland, is out this week.

The Trump campaign has denied the allegations of cognitive issues, and said Trump didnt remember Setoodeh because he is a nobody and insignificant and never made an impression.

See the full CNN interview below:
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  San Diego County law enforcement is offering a several thousand dollar reward for information leading to a suspect in a homicide that happened in Lemon Grove last year.

Local law enforcement agencies are now offering a total of $6,000 to anyone with information that leads to an arrest of a man suspected in a March 2023 homicide in Lemon Grove.

Police announce arrest in weekend stabbing of pregnant woman in Mira Mesa

The San Diego County Sheriffs Department has identified 34-year-old Daniel Ethridge as a suspect, and say he is suspected in the shooting death of 39-year-old Gregory Moore on Lemon Grove Avenue the evening of March 18, 2023.

Sheriff's Homicide Investigators identified 34-year-old Daniel Ethridge as a suspect in a March 18, 2023 Lemon Grove homicide. Ethridge is described as a Black man, 59 tall, weighing 165 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Authorities say he should be considered armed and dangerous. (Photo: San Diego County Sheriff)

The sheriffs department reports Ethridge has an active arrest warrant for homicide and is believed to be associated with a local street gang. Authorities say he should be considered armed and dangerous.

Man shot to death in East County identified

The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a $5,000 reward in this case, while San Diego County Crime Stoppers is offering $1,000, for any information that leads to an arrest and conviction in this case.

Ethridge is described as a Black man, 59 tall, weighing 165 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. SDSO says Ethridge has prior convictions for assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into an inhabited dwelling.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriffs Homicide Unit at 858-285-6330. You can also call the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 888-580-8477. Visit sdcrimestoppers.org for information on how to send web or mobile app tips.

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.
Two US inspectors are attacked in Mexico while checking fresh shipment of avocados

Two US inspectors are attacked in Mexico while checking fresh shipment of avocados

The United States has halted inspections of avocados and mangoes in Mexicos Michoacan state after two US Agriculture Department employees were attacked and detained.

Two employees of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), which operates under the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), were recently attacked and detained while inspecting avocados, according to the United States Embassy in Mexico.

The two employees have since been released; however, the embassy wrote that APHIS has suspended the inspections of avocados and mangoes in Michoacan to ensure the safety of the agricultural inspection team.

The statement did not go into further detail about how the two employees were attacked, where, and for how long they were detained. The inspections will be suspended until the safety issues have been resolved.

The Independent has contacted the Department of Agriculture for further information.

The pause in this state does not impact other Mexican states, where other APHIS inspections continue. It does not block all exports of avocados or mangoes into the US, or stop any product in transit.

A USDA spokesperson also confirmed that the inspections had been paused until further notice.

"The (safety inspection) programs will remain paused until the security situation is reviewed and protocols and safeguards are in place," the USDA spokesperson told Reuters.

United States Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar wrote in the statement that he has been closely monitoring the situation and remains in direct contact with officials from Mexicos state and federal governments.

Next week, Salazar intends to travel to Michoacan to meet with Governor Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla and the Association of Producers and Export Packers of Mexico to address security.

Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramirez Bedolla told reporters on Monday that Mexican authorities were in discussions with US officials to try and resolve this situation quickly, according to The Associated Press.

The governor told Mexicos Radio Formula on Tuesday that the inspectors had been stopped in a protest by residents of Aramza in the state on Friday, the AP reported, adding that he downplayed the situation and suggested they were never at risk.

Governor Ramirez Bedolla told the radio station that he reached out to the US Embassy the next day and that the state forces were providing security for the avocado producers and packers.

While avocado exports will continue in other areas, Michoacan is known to be Mexicos biggest export of avocados, the outlet reports, meaning the demand for the fruit in the United States could eventually rise.

If the suspension is prolonged, this could cause a blow to one of Mexicos top farm exports, with avocados earning the nickname green gold, and US consumers, who often eat the fruit as guacamole or as avocado on toast.

The suspension comes as tensions surround criminal organizations interest in one of Mexicos most profitable food exports.

Some drug cartels are reportedly extorting avocado producers in Michoacan, threatening growers or their families with kidnapping and death unless they shell out protection money over their acres.

Gang members have also reportedly transported avocados grown in other states that have not been approved for export, and tried to send them through the US inspection process.

The cartels also have been accused of preying on orchard owners, laborers who pick the avocados, and the drivers who transport them to the United States, according to The Los Angeles Times.

It is not the first time that the US has suspended the inspection of Mexican avocados, having done so in February 2022 after a US plant safety inspection in Michoacan received a threatening message The pause lasted for around a week.

The swarm of organized crime comes as Mexicos avocado industry has seen its value quadruple over the last decade, with the crop being the countrys second most valuable in 2022, according to Insight Crime.
In the Kharkiv sector, the Russian occupation forces suffered heavy losses during the battle for Vovchansk  more than 4,000 invaders were killed. With this in mind, the enemy is preparing to deploy marines from the Pacific Fleet.

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This is a brigade that is deployed more than 9,000 kilometers from the site of combat operations. Nazar Voloshyn, spokesman for the "Khortytsia" operational and strategic group of troops, said this on Tuesday, June 18, during a telethon.

He said that the 138th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade, the 83rd Separate Airborne Assault Brigade, and the 30th Motorized Rifle Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces are currently opposing the Ukrainian Defense Forces in Vovchansk. However, these units have suffered heavy losses in the month and a half of fighting.

That is why the military leadership of the Russian Federation is trying to replenish the ranks of the occupiers in this area with those groups that are located near the borders of Ukraine and on the territory of Russia.

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In particular, we are talking about units of the 155th Separate Marine Brigade from the Pacific Fleet and units belonging to the 25th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade of the 6th Army from the Leningrad Military District.

The 155th Separate Guards Marine Brigade of the Russian Federation is stationed in the city of Vladivostok and the village of Slovianka in Primorsky Territory. The distance to Vovchansk from there is about 9300 kilometers.

Earlier, we told you that the Russian occupiers are constantly trying to free their units, which are blocked on the territory of the Aggregate Plant in Vovchansk, Kharkiv region. The logistics of the trapped enemy soldiers are limited to drone drops.

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Will avocado prices go up after inspection pause in Mexico?

(NewsNation)  Theres bad news for guacamole lovers: The U.S. could soon see fewer avocados coming from Mexico.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has suspended inspections of avocados and mangoes imported from the Mexican state of Michoacan after two employees were assaulted and temporarily held by assailants.

Michoacan is Mexicos biggest exporter of avocados and also one of the most dangerous regions in the country. The multibillion-dollar avocado industry has attracted the attention of drug cartels who are known to extort growers for money, threatening their families with kidnapping or death.

The employees, who worked for the USDAs Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), are no longer being held.

Villagers in Mexico organize to take back their water as drought, avocados dry up lakes and rivers

To guarantee the safety of our agricultural inspection teams, APHIS has suspended the avocado and mango inspections in Michoacan until these security problems have been resolved, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar said in a statement.

Its unclear how long the pause on inspections will last, but a lengthy delay could eventually lead to higher prices in the U.S., Daniel Sumner, a professor of agriculture economics at UC Davis, told the Los Angeles Times.

If it goes away quickly it could be a little blip in the market, he said. If it lasts several weeks, we will likely see many fewer avocados.

Can Mexicos new president curtail powerful drug cartels?

Last year, the U.S. imported a record 2.78 billion pounds of fresh avocados, 89% of which came from Mexico, according to the USDA.

The good news for fans of avocado toast is that the pause wont entirely block avocado shipments to the U.S. because another Mexican state, Jalisco, is now an exporter. Avocados that were already in transit from Michoacan also wont be affected.

This is the second time the U.S. government has suspended inspections of Mexican avocados in recent years. The first pause, in February 2022, came after a U.S. plant safety inspector in Michoacan received a threatening message. The halt was lifted after roughly a week.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

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"Anytime you can rescue a little critter, it always makes you feel good," said Lt. Ryan Browning of the Homer Police Department

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A baby moose who ended up trapped in an Alaska lake is lucky to be alive  thanks to the efforts of an Alaska man and police officers.

Spencer Warren shared a video of the rescue in a Facebook post on June 14. The clip, titled "Saved a baby moose from the lake," was reposted on Facebook by the Homer Police Department.

In the video, Warren and another officer run toward the edge of the dock at Beluga Lake in Homer, Alaska, where a trapped moose calf is stuck between the dock and floatplane. The two humans work together to pull the little creature up and successfully heave the animal onto the dock.

The creature looks exhausted after the incident. The clip shows the calf falling once it got on dry ground. The footage ends with the officer nudging the animal to get back up and the baby moose walking out of the frame.

Related: Kitten Left in Post Office Mailbox Is Rescued After Being Found Scared but Unharmed and Named Special Delivery

"What a wild morning," Warren wrote alongside the video. "Had to save a baby moose that fell into the lake and got stuck between the float plane and the dock. Thanks to the Homer PD for distracting the mama moose and the officer for helping me pull the baby out."

Warren, who works for the outdoor tourism company Destination Alaska Adventure Co., told the Associated Press that he had spotted the struggling baby moose when he turned up to work at around 6:30 a.m. on Friday, June 14, to prep the floatplane for a trip.

"Oh, man, where is mama? I know she's nearby," he recalled thinking.

Related: Man Notices Dog Following Him While on Vacation in Puerto Rico, Realizes He Can't Leave Her Behind (Exclusive)

Warren noted to AP that the mother moose was about four feet away from the dock with another calf when he first arrived. To prevent provoking the mother moose, Warren waited until police officers arrived on the scene to assist before stepping in to save the little moose, who could not get its footing on the slippery metal float.

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Homer Police Lt. Ryan Browning told AP that the calf would have likely met its "sure demise" had officers not stepped in. When police got to the scene, officers maneuvered their police cruiser between the mother moose and her calf in need before attempting the rescue.

Browning added to the outlet that officers were happy the rescue was successful. "Anytime you can rescue a little critter, it always makes you feel good," he said.



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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A Kern County jury on Tuesday acquitted a man of resisting arrest and being under the influence of a drug, according to court records.

Ray Hernandez was found not guilty of felony and misdemeanor counts of resisting arrest and a misdemeanor count of being under the influence of a drug. He faced three years in jail if convicted as charged, according to a release from the Public Defenders Office.

No bail for driver arrested in Stellas Sandtrap crash

On the night of Jan. 1, police conducting a welfare check contacted Hernandez near Niles and Gage streets. Officers testified at trial that Hernandez exhibited signs of being under the influence and refused to follow commands, kicking and twisting to avoid arrest, according to the release.

Deputy Public Defender Ajaib Gill argued police used excessive force. He said Hernandezs movements resulted from pain inflicted by the officers, according to the release.

The attorney noted a portion of the footage captured by officers body-worn cameras was missing  the cameras were accidentally turned off during the incident, the release says.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
Ball is in your court on prisoner swap deal, Russia tells America

Evan Gershkovich, seen here in court in Moscow in April, is set to face a closed-door trial on June 26 - TATYANA MAKEYEVA/REUTERS

Russia said on Wednesday that it had presented its ideas for a prisoner swap to the United States and was waiting for a response, days before it was set to put the American reporter Evan Gershkovich on trial.

Mr Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, was arrested in March 2023 on espionage charges, which have been rejected as false by his family, employer and the White House.

Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, said in February that talks on a prisoner swap involving the journalist were under way, but the Kremlin has not given any details on the progress of the negotiations.

The ball is in the court of the United States. We are waiting for them to respond to the ideas that were presented to them, Sergei Ryabkov, the deputy foreign minister, told Russias state TASS news agency in an interview.

They are well known to the relevant parts of the US administration. I understand that, perhaps, something in these ideas does not suit the Americans. Thats their problem, he added.

We consider our approaches to be fully justified, sensible, balanced. We expect that this is how they will view them.

Mr Gershkovich is set to face a closed-door trial in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg on June 26 and could face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.

American soldier jailed

Mr Ryabkovs comments came as a court in Russias far east jailed a US soldier for three years and nine months, allegedly for threatening to kill his girlfriend and stealing from her.

Staff Sergeant Gordon Black, 34, was arrested last month in the far eastern city of Vladivostok, where he was visiting a Russian woman he met and dated while serving in South Korea.

The woman, named by Russian media as Aleksandra Vashchuk, accused Sgt Black of stealing about 10,000 roubles ($120) from her and said she had been physically attacked.

Sgt Black pleaded partially guilty to theft and not guilty to threatening to kill Ms Vashchuk, Russian media reported.

His lawyer intends to appeal the verdict, the TASS news agency reported.

Washington has accused Moscow of arresting its citizens on baseless charges to use them as bargaining chips to secure the release of Russians convicted abroad.

Alsu Kurmasheva, a dual Russian-US citizen, was arrested last year for failing to register as a 'foreign agent' - REF/RL

The Kremlin has signalled it is open to a deal on exchanging some of them if its conditions are met.

But it has not revealed details. Putin has suggested a deal may involve the release of a Russian jailed in Germany for killing a Chechen dissident.

Among other US nationals detained in Russia is the reporter Alsu Kurmasheva, an American-Russian dual citizen arrested last year for failing to register as a foreign agent. Her employers denounced the case against her as politically motivated.

The former US marine Paul Whelan, in prison in Russia since 2018 and serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges, is also pushing to be included in any future exchange.

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Matthew Feargrieve struck Mr Engler after he sat in an unoccupied seat next to his partner Catherine Chandler during a performance - Julian Simmonds

A barrister has been banned for 12 months after punching a fashion designer during a performance of Wagner at the Royal Opera House.

Matthew Feargrieve was suspended by a disciplinary tribunal on Wednesday after being accused of professional misconduct.

The Bar Standards Board (BSB) accused Mr Feargrieve of breaching his core duty by behaving in a way that was likely to diminish the trust and confidence the public places in the profession.

The disciplinary tribunal on Wednesday ruled that the BSB cannot issue him a certificate for a 12-month period, effective immediately.

The ruling comes after Mr Feargrieve was found guilty of assaulting Ulrich Engler during a performance of Wagners Ring Cycle at the Royal Opera House in 2018.

The investment funds lawyer struck Mr Engler after he sat in an unoccupied seat next to his partner Catherine Chandler during Siegfried, the first section of Wagners four-part epic.

Designer moved to empty seat

Mr Engler, a German designer who previously styled the Countess of Wessex and Princess Alexandra, moved from his seat in row B to an empty seat in row A with a better view.

The Royal Opera Houses best front row seats in the stalls circle for the performance typically cost 1,200 while seats in Row B, where Mr Engler had been sitting, cost 356, according to a previous report by The Times.

Mr Engler, who specialises in couture and wedding dresses, asked Ms Chandler if she had bought the spare seat and whether he could move into it.

After she replied no to both questions, Mr Engler switched seats and moved her coat on to her lap.

Mr Engler said he then felt a constant flow of blows, according to a report by The Times in 2019, adding that he had never seen someone looking with so much terror and anger at me.

Fashion designer Ulrich Engler was attacked after moving from his seat in row B to an empty seat in row A with a better view - Julian Simmonds

Mr Engler was left with injuries to his left side and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder following the attack.

Mr Feargrieve was criminally convicted of assault by beating in December 2019 and was sentenced in 2020. Judge John Zani at the time found that Mr Feargrieve used excessive force.

He said: You really should not have behaved in the way you did. In my view you lost your temper. It was excessive.

The Oxford University-educated lawyer was ordered to pay more than 2,200 in fines, costs and compensation.

Mr Feargrieve, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, subsequently lodged an appeal to the Crown Court but ultimately withdrew the action.

Mr Feargrieve, who is also a solicitor, was rebuked by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in 2021. It said the criminal conviction undermined the publics trust and confidence in the solicitors profession.

The solicitor watchdog ordered him to pay its 300 investigation costs.

Attacker was unregistered barrister

Mr Feargrieve was already an unregistered barrister, meaning he did not hold a licensing certificate to practise in England and Wales.

He was called to the Bar in 1996 but did not complete a pupillage, the final stage of training before becoming a barrister, according to the BSB.

Mr Feargrieve, who has spent the past decade working as a self-employed consultant to investment funds, did not attend the hearing. He has two weeks to respond to the BSBs requests to pay 1,560 in costs.

A BSB spokesman said: Barristers have an obligation not to behave in a way which is likely to diminish the trust and confidence which the public places in them or in the profession, even when not practising.

The tribunals decision shows that Mr Feargrieves actions leading to his conviction were a clear breach of that duty and the sanction reflects the seriousness of this.

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BBQ spot scores 85 red points. Here are Thurston food safety inspections for June 19

Comments are taken directly from the latest Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) inspection reports, which are available for each food establishment, at the Thurston County Environmental Health Office and their website. For questions concerning these reports, contact the health office at 360-867-2667.

Report restaurant, grocery store, deli or bakery complaints online via the complaint form here: https://www.thurstoncountywa.gov/phss/Pages/eh-problem.aspx.

Reading inspection scores:

Attention should be given to the type of violation (red versus blue) and whether the establishment has a history of red violations or repeat violations.

Red violations are those most likely to cause food-borne illness and must be corrected immediately if feasible or according to a compliance schedule established by the health officer. Example: not keeping food at the right temperature.

Blue violations relate to the overall cleanliness and condition of operation and must be corrected according to a compliance schedule established by the health officer. Example: a worn floor that needs replacing.

If red points exceed 45, the county will require a reinspection within 10 business days. A reinspection also is required if total red and blue points exceed 65.

If red points exceed 100 and theres a lack of managerial control, the county will shut down the establishment for at least 72 hours. The establishment may reopen after management and employees complete retraining and demonstrate corrective action during a reinspection.

Some common abbreviations: PHF/TCS is potentially hazardous food/time control for safety; RTE is ready to eat; PIC is person in charge; FWC is food worker card; CDI is corrected during inspection.

Steele Barrel BBQ

3720 Pacific Ave. SE, Olympia (Commissary)

Mobile Food Unit

June 6: 85 red points; 7 blue points.

Comments:

The person-in-charge did not perform duties to maintain active managerial control of risk factors.

Employees washed hands for less than 20 seconds.

The in-use support kitchen lacked dedicated hand sinks.

Raw proteins (eggs) were stored above ready-to-eat foods in two units.

More than three eggs were mixed together and stored in a prep unit.

Macaroni salad was improperly cooled at greater than 2-inch depths while covered.

Permit conditions were not being met. Workers used an unapproved support kitchen and did not use an approved commissary. They also used an unapproved vacuum packaging process.

A sanitizer solution was not made at the time of inspection.

Grill barriers were absent.

Bar Francis

110 Franklin St. NE, Olympia (Commissary)

Mobile Food Unit

June 7: 50 red points; 5 blue points.

Comments:

An employee was unable to present their food worker card.

A hand-wash sink lacked soap. A food worker said they used a non-hand-washing sink to wash their hands.

Spam musubi was observed for sale at room temperature. TCS foods must be cold held at or below 41 degrees, hot held at or above 135 degrees or maintained according to a written time-as-a-control plan.

Half-and-half was held at 56-70 degrees under a counter rather than cold held at or below 41 degrees.

An unapproved homestyle refrigerator that needed to be replaced was being used.

My Thai Food Truck

1818 Fourth Ave. E., Olympia (No commissary)

Mobile Food Unit

June 6: 35 red points; 0 blue points.

Comments:

Wrapped steamed rice was observed being cooled in a deep container in the reach-in cooler. Rice must be cooled in a shallow pan, less than 2 inches.

Cooling must be done via an approved method and in an approved commissary.

Jerk An Tingz LLC

4419 Harrison Ave. NW, Olympia, Suite 104 (Commissary)

Mobile Food Unit

June 5: 30 red points; 5 blue points

Comments:

One employee did not have a valid food work card available upon request.

Macaroni and cheese was observed on a stove at 106 and 155 degrees without the burners turned on. TCS foods must be maintained under temperature control or according to a written time-as-a-control plan.

Improper test strips were on hand for testing a chlorine sanitizer.

Taqueria la Esquinita III

422 Legion Way SE, Olympia (Commissary)

Mobile Food Unit

June 6: 15 red points; 5 blue points.

Comments:

No food worker cards were on site.

Pico de gallo was cold held at 50 degrees rather than at or below 41 degrees.

An in-use sanitizer was not prepared.

Tran Pho Capitol Market LLC

2419 Harrison Ave. NW, Olympia

Grocery stores and confectioneries

June 6: 10 red points; 0 blue points.

Comments:

Tofu in a three-door cold hold was at 47.3 degrees rather than at or below 41 degrees.

Fiesta Taco 2

2400 Harrison Ave. NW, Olympia (Commissary)

Mobile Food Unit

June 6: 10 red points; 0 blue points.

Comments:

The mobile food unit was cited for a deficiency having to do with proper cold holding temperatures. No inspection notes were provided.

Tacos California - Martin Way #4

1302 Tracey Lane SE, Lacey (Commissary)

Mobile Food Unit

June 7: 0 red points; 5 blue points.

Comments:

An in-use chlorine sanitizing solution was too weak as prepared.

No violations

Kabocha, mobile food unit, 1909 Harrison Ave. NW, OIympia
Officials urged residents to watch out for roaming wildlife displaced by the recent Hesperia Fire after a bear was spotted strolling through a neighborhood north of the burn zone on Wednesday morning.

The animal payed a visit to a residential neighborhood in the area of Ranchero Road and Avenue I, near Ranchero Middle School, according to city officials and witnesses.

Resident Stephen Waddell captured photos of the bear investigating yards and sifting through garbage at about 6 a.m.

A bear strolls through a neighborhood in the area of Ranchero Road and I Avenue in Hesperia on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

The Hesperia Fire, which ignited near Highway 173 and Arrowhead Lake Road on Saturday evening and then consumed nearly 1,100 acres of brush, was 94% contained on Wednesday, according to CAL FIRE officials.

More: Hesperia Fire road closures, evacuation warnings lifted as containment reaches 86%

"The recent fires, including the Hesperia Fire, remind us that fires and fireworks can displace wildlife and cause significant damage," city officials said in a written statement.

A bear strolls through a neighborhood in the area of Ranchero Road and I Avenue in Hesperia on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

The cause of the Hesperia Fire remained under investigation, according to CAL FIRE.

The California Highway Patrol received witness reports in the outset of the fire indicating it appeared to have been ignited by fireworks, records show.

City staff notified the California Department of Fish and Wildlife of the sighting, and urged members of the public to do the same if they come across a bear.

Sightings can be reported online at apps.wildlife.ca.gov/wir.

More: How to report mountain lion, bear sightings to the California Dept. of Fish & Wildlife

A bear strolls through a neighborhood in the area of Ranchero Road and I Avenue in Hesperia on Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

Officials also reminded residents that all fireworks are illegal in Hesperia, with a first offense carrying with it a $1,250 fine.

Earlier this morning, a bear was spotted near Ranchero and I Avenues in #Hesperia. City staff has notified Fish and... Posted by City of Hesperia on Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Fireworks can be reported online to the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District at sbcfire.org/fireworkssafety.

This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Bear strolls through neighborhood near Hesperia Fire burn area
Russia and the DPRK have signed an agreement on a comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries. This agreement provides for mutual military assistance in the event of aggression against one of the participants.

ADVERTISIMENT

This was reported by Russian media. The agreement was signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin's first visit to Pyongyang in 24 years on Wednesday, June 19.

The video shows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin signing the agreement.

Putin also said that he does not rule out the development of military-technical cooperation with the DPRK. In addition, he said that the DPRK's "objective and balanced" position on Ukraine "confirms the sovereign course of this country."

"Moscow and Pyongyang will continue to oppose the practice of sanctions strangulation, which is familiar to the West," Putin said.

ADVERTISIMENT

In turn, Kim Jong Un called Russia "the most honest friend and ally" and Putin "the dearest friend of the Korean people."

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Putin held a one-on-one meeting with DPRK leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang. After the meeting, Putin announced a "new fundamental document that will become the basis for future relations between the countries in the long term."

Earlier it was reported that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin's visit to North Korea was probably a gesture of goodwill towards DPRK leader Kim Jong Un to help legitimize his party's regime both at home and abroad. In return, the Kremlin leader expects additional assistance in the future, which could range from additional requests for weapons to labor.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!

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ST. LOUIS  A Belleville, Illinois, man is due in court next month for threatening to kill a St. Louis business owner. Hes also wanted for sending threats to another individual via social media.

According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Departments probable cause statement, the threats started on March 4.

Police claim William M. Hendree, 36, sent several messages to a Central West End business owner threatening to use hollow point ammunition to shoot him, and said he would be waiting at the business to kill him.

Hendree is also accused of sending similar messages to employees at the business.

Missouri couple accused of poisoning neighbors trees for ocean view

After being taken into custody, police claim Hendree admitted that he was targeting the owner because of his sexual orientation.

The St. Louis Circuit Attorneys Office charged Hendree with one count of first-degree harassment. On June 17, the judge presiding over the case signed an order releasing Hendree on his own recognizance, over the objections of prosecutors. Hendree must wear a GPS monitoring device and is due in court for a status hearing on July 17.

However, on June 18, another circuit court judge signed an arrest warrant for Hendree in a separate harassment case.

In this incident, a woman reported to St. Louis police in February 2023 that Hendree was sending derogatory and threatening messages to her on her social media accounts. As a result, the victim was forced to take precautions to protect herself and her children.

Hendree was charged with first-degree harassment in this case. Upon his arrest, hell be held on a $15,000 cash-only bond.

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The Bettendorf City Council has unanimously resolved to approve settlements in three lawsuits filed after a driver hit three people on a pedestrian path.

The I-74 bridge bike and pedestrian path, seen with the old bridge before it was torn down.

The path is adjacent to the Interstate 74 Bridge that spans the Mississippi River and connects Bettendorf and Moline.

According to the resolution approved Tuesday by the city council, the city  through its insurance provider the Iowa Communities Assurance Pool (ICAP)  has engaged outside counsel to defend the city in these suits: Charles Bowen v. Bettendorf, et. al; Crystal Gonzalez, et al. v. Bettendorf, et al.; and Michele Castaneda and Manuel Castaneda, et. al. v. Bettendorf, et al.

It is determined that it is in the best interest of the city to enter into a Settlement Agreement and Release for each Lawsuit, the resolution says.

This was a tragic incident, said City Administrator Decker Ploehn in a statement released Tuesday night. This settlement was directed by the City of Bettendorfs insurance provider, the Iowa Communities Assurance Pool (ICAP) and recommended by outside counsel and our city attorney.

The city is not admitting liability, Ploehn said, But the City Council has determined that the settlements are in the best interest of the City.

The Resolution approved by the Bettendorf City Council on June 18th, 2024, is the only comment the City will be making from this point forward.

The agreements and releases do not admit liability by the city, the resolution says. All settlement expenses of the city are covered by insurance, subject to the citys insurance deductible, which is $10,000. Settlement amounts have been negotiated among the parties and all are agreeable as a compromise settlement of disputed claims.

A prison sentence for a driver

Chhabria Harris (Moline Police Department)

Chhabria Harris was accused in the deaths of two men after driving drunk on the I-74 Bridge bike path on May 22, 2022. A third man was critically injured in the incident.

Harris pleaded guilty to an amended first charge of aggravated DUI/Accident/Death. Other charges related to the incident were dropped as part of the plea deal. Another case against Harris, for an alleged assault while in jail, was also dismissed.

Judge Frank Fuhr sentenced Harris to 20 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections on the amended charge of aggravated DUI/Accident/Death. She must serve 85% of the sentence, or 17 years. After her prison term is completed, she must serve two years of supervised release.

A fatal crash on the walkway

Moline Police were dispatched to the pedestrian walkway on the I-74 Bridge at about 1:56 a.m. on Sunday, May 22, 2022. They found three victims who had been struck by a vehicle on the walkway.

Tribute to Ethan Gonzalez, killed on the I-74 bridge walkway, at the Happy Joes on Kennedy Drive in East Moline where he worked. (photo: Matt Holderman)

Ethan Gonzalez, 21, of Moline, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another victim, Anthony Castaneda,18, of Moline, died on May 26 from his injuries. A third person, Charles Bowen, 22, was critically injured but survived, police said.

The suspect, Harris, was later located in East Moline, where she was observed getting out of a white Cadillac Escalade SUV that matched witnesses statements, officers said. Harris was taken to UnityPoint on suspicion of driving under the influence, then was released and taken into custody by Moline Police.

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The Bettendorf Police Department wants your help to keep the roads safe.

The department developed its Speed Spots Map, a tool for identifying spots where speeding is frequent. On the website is a map where users can drop a pin in any areas they notice speeding,

you can drop a pin. The pins alert the police to increase watch in those areas. Police are still placing speed trailers in residential areas to monitor speeding.

Police are increasing their capabilities in preparation for the summer since children are out of school. Just remember, you know, were in the summer months, schools just let out, and you know theres a lot of kids out on bikes, being active, and whether theyre on bikes in our neighborhoods, or theyre playing up in the yard, Bettendorf Chief of Police Keith Kimball said. Kids sometimes playing up in the street or chasing balls or things into the street, thats why its even more important in our residential areas.

For more information or to use the service, click here.

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Bicyclist seriously injured in crash near Jenison

GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  A bicyclist was airlifted to the hospital after he was hit by a car near Jenison Wednesday.

It happened around 8:40 a.m. on Fillmore Street near 28th Avenue in Georgetown Township.

The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office says an eastbound SUV crossed the center line where Fillmore curves and hit the bicyclist, who was on the shoulder headed west.

The bicyclist, a 59-year-old Grandville man, was airlifted to the hospital with critical injuries. Authorities said he was wearing a helmet.

The driver of the SUV, a 39-year-old Allendale woman, was hospitalized with minor injuries.

Authorities are still investigating why the driver crossed the center line.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

A stretch of Fillmore was shut down while emergency responders were on the scene and later reopened.

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Turns out the White House has a red line when it comes to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after all: Claiming the U.S. isnt giving Israel enough weapons to bombard Gaza. The White House canceled a planned meeting with Netanyahu slated for Thursday after the prime minister released a video on Tuesday claiming the U.S. withheld military aid to Israel.

Its inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel, Netanyahu states in a video address in English posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday.

Churchill told the United States, give us the tools, well do the job. And I say, give us the tools, and well finish the joba lot faster, said Netanyahu. (Churchills original quote is Give us the tools, and we will finish the job.)

Netanyahus video is technically true but overall false. The U.S. paused sending one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel ahead of their assault on Rafah, which Biden had previously declared was his red line, over concern of the civilian toll use of the bombs would take. Aside from that one shipment, however, the U.S. has continued sending weapons to Israel as it normally would, according to Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Just this week, the U.S. approved a request from Biden to send an expected $18 billion weapons package to Israel.

According to Axioss Barak Ravid, Netanyahus video enraged Bidens top advisors. An unnamed U.S. official told Ravid that the meeting with Netanyahu scheduled for Thursday to discuss Iran was canceled to send a message, This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts.

The Americans are fuming, a senior Israeli official told Axios.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre responded to Netanyahus video on Tuesday, confirming a continued pause on just one shipment of bombs but that the U.S. had otherwise not stopped showering Israel with weapons. We genuinely do not know what hes talking about, said Jean-Pierre.

Netanyahu is still slated to address a joint session of Congress on July 24, but the video has rankled officials in the Biden administration and provoked calls from Senator Bernie Sanders to make Netanyahus backhanded claim a reality, declaring no more bombs for Netanyahu.

Lets be clear: the right wing, extremist Netanyahu government has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians and injured nearly 85,000, sixty percent of whom are women, children, or elderly, said Sanders. It is absurd that Netanyahu has been invited to address Congress. We should not be honoring people who use the starvation of children as a weapon of war. Instead, the United States should be withholding all offensive military aid to Israel and using our leverage to demand an end to this war, the unfettered flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, a stop to the killing of Palestinians in the West Bank, and initial steps towards a two-state solution.
The hydropower dams on the Columbia River flooded villages, disrupted economies and ways of life and continue to harm people indigenous to the Pacific Northwest, according to a first-of-its-kind federal report released Tuesday.

The report by the Department of Interior was produced as part of a major agreement last year between tribes and the United States, in which the federal government promised $1 billion to restore wild salmon, produce clean energy and more  but ultimately stopped short of dam removal, an intensely controversial subject.

The report provides a summary of the historic, ongoing and cumulative harm to eight Columbia Basin tribes caused by 11 dams built in the Columbia and Snake rivers. It marks the first time the federal government has detailed these harms.

From the displacement of people to the silencing of rushing flows and the decline of salmon, the report evaluates how the Columbia River Basin, and the Indigenous people intrinsically tied to it, was dramatically altered in less than a century after the construction of dams. The report calls for federal agencies to recognize tribes expertise in restoring salmon runs, and to take impactful, immediate next steps.

Today, 13 runs of Columbia Basin salmon and steelhead are listed for protection under the Endangered Species Act. The causes of salmon decline are numerous and include water withdrawals for irrigation, habitat lost to farming and development, overfishing by non-Native settlers, poor hatchery practices, climate change and fish killed by the dams.

Warming and development continue to heighten the risk of salmon extinction, especially in the impounded Snake, which has seen toxic algae blooms and water temperatures exceeding the lethal threshold for salmon.

The Columbia Basin agreement was announced in December between the U.S. government, the states of Washington and Oregon, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, the Nez Perce Tribe  and a coalition of conservation, fishing and renewable energy groups represented by Earthjustice.

It stems from years of mediated negotiations in a decadeslong court battle over dam operations. Tribal nations helped draw up a road map for the future of the regions energy and salmon. Under the agreement, approved by a federal judge this year, tribes will help restore wild fish and lead in the construction of at least 1 to 3 gigawatts of clean-energy production.

A stay of litigation is in place for up to five years and could continue for as long as 10.

Restoring native fish

The 70-page report comes alongside the creation of a new Columbia River Task Force that will oversee the efforts to fulfill the Biden administrations commitments to restore native fish populations and expand tribally sponsored clean energy. Nik Blosser, former chief of staff for Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and a former vice president at Portland General Electric, will serve as the task forces first executive director and members will include representatives from federal agencies.

We are able to identify that there are issues surrounding the Columbia River system of operations and its devastating impacts on the environment, the salmon and what depends on them, Nez Perce Chairman Shannon Wheeler said in an interview. There has to be that common understanding so we can look forward with clarity. Reflecting on the past is what needs to happen in order to reaffirm our commitments to one another through the treaty.

For thousands of years, Indigenous people lived in harmony with a flourishing Columbia River ecosystem. Some salmon would grow big enough to feed the orcas, others would come back and feed the people, provide nutrients for the soil, trees, critters and spawn future generations. Tribes honor these foods at ceremonial feasts. According to Umatilla tradition, the foods are served in the order in which these foods promised to care for the Indian people.

For many tribes, salmon is of paramount importance, the report states.

Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation consider salmon sacred relatives. The Nez Perce Tribe describes this relationship as creating a covenant between the Nez Perce people and the salmon. Yakama Nation has described salmon as the Creators second gift to the people, and in return for the gift the people are to care for the waters that sustain the salmon.

One report estimates that treaty tribes harvested 2.5 million to 5.6 million pounds of salmon annually prior to settlers arrival.

In signing treaties with the United States in the mid-1800s, the Lower Columbia tribes reserved the right to fish in perpetuity at their usual and accustomed places, in exchange for ceding millions of acres to the federal government.

As the Columbia and Snake rivers were transformed from free flowing to a series of pools serving other purposes, the report details how the annual returns of salmon to the basin dwindled.

Focused on 11 dams

The report is centered on 11 dams: the four lower Columbia dams  Bonneville, The Dalles, John Day and McNary; the two upper Columbia dams  Chief Joseph and Grand Coulee; the four lower Snake dams  Ice Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose, and Lower Granite; and Dworshak dam, located on the North Fork Clearwater River just upstream of a tributary to the lower Snake River.

Salmon migrated hundreds of miles to the Shoshone-Paiute people of the Duck Valley Reservation in the southernmost tip of the basin before the Owyhee Dam cut off their historic habitat. The salmon once ran, in the millions, up the Snake and its tributaries.

Wild Snake River salmon runs are 0.1-2% of the abundance at the time the United States entered into the 1855 treaties with tribes.

This story was replicated throughout numerous tributaries to the Columbia River, the report states.

June Hogs, the big Chinook that many recall lumbering up and the Columbia after cruising the northeastern Pacific, are now virtually nonexistent. Of 16 once-existing salmonid stocks, four have been extirpated  Mid-Columbia River coho, Mid-Columbia River sockeye, Upper Columbia River coho and Snake River coho.

The report explained how early mitigation efforts for the impacts of dams that severed salmon and steelhead from their historic habitat were centered around raising the fish in hatcheries. Despite the Bonneville Power Administration, a federal agency that markets electricity from the dams, spending billions of dollars in ratepayer funds on salmon in the basin, not a single run has recovered.

The failure to meet abundance goals contributes to salmon harvest deficits. At no point since the beginning of Columbia River Basin development have Tribal fishers been able to harvest more than a fraction of their historic share of salmon returns, the report continues.

Dams, the report describes, silenced sites that for thousands of years were filled with the noise of rushing water and people communing, praying, fishing, trading, and celebrating.

Celilo Falls was a place of wonder. A symphony of nature, the river was in constant motion, the report stated, quoting from book The Silailo Way. Native men climbed onto the wood scaffolds and reached into the river with long poles that had nets on the ends. Using these dip nets, they caught migrating salmon.

The reservoir behind Grand Coulee Dam, known today as Lake Roosevelt, reaches 151 miles upstream, inundating well over 100 miles of salmonhabitat on the mainstem, and dozens more on the Spokane, Kettle and San Poil rivers, and many small tributaries, along with Kettle Falls itself.

The inundation of Kettle Falls spurred the Ceremony of Tears, a gathering of at least 1,000 people, with representatives of multiple tribes, to mourn the impending loss of the falls in 1940. The construction of Grand Coulee also forced the relocation of many tribal homes and burial sites as it flooded portions of the Colville and Spokane reservations  lands that those tribes just decades before had reserved from their vast ancestral territories.

And yet, Celilo and Kettle Falls are only the largest and busiest fishing sites flooded by the federal dams, the report states, acknowledging further harm.

The flourishing of Basin Tribes is inextricably linked to the health of the Columbia River and its tributaries. The holistic nature of the impacts on the Tribes documented in this report makes clear that the government must aim for more than compliance with the ESA and other environmental statutes, the report states. The government should support actions that achieve healthy and abundant populations of salmon, other fish, and wildlife throughout the Basin.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in a comprehensive report on the river released in September 2022 stated that dam removal on the Lower Snake will be necessary along with other actions to boost salmon abundance.

The Yakama Nation has always spoke for the water, fish, and cultural resources that cannot speak-up for themselves. I am hopeful that through this report, federal entities will listen to Yakama People, said Gerald Lewis, Yakama Tribal Council chairman, in a statement. We will know that we have been heard when the hydro-system agencies start prioritizing their commitments to salmon recovery and our tribal fishers.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's public assertion that the Biden administration is broadly withholding military support for Israel amid its ongoing war with Hamas in Gaza prompted confusion and frustration across Washington on Tuesday, as Biden administration officials flatly denied the allegations.

"We genuinely do not know what he's talking about," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said at her daily press briefing. "We just don't."

PHOTO: White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks at a press briefing at the White House, on June 18, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Netanyahu made the accusations in a video posted to X.

Speaking in English, he said he told Secretary of State Antony Blinken during the U.S. diplomat's recent visit to Israel that it was "inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions."

"Israel, America's closest ally, fighting for its life, fighting against Iran and our other common enemies," he continued.

PHOTO: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a ceremony at the Nahalat Yitshak Cemetery in Tel Aviv, Israel, on June 18, 2024. (Shaul Golan, POOL via AP)

MORE: Israel-Gaza live updates: Netanyahu says US is withholding certain weapons

In the prime minister's retelling of the conversation, Blinken gave assurances that the Biden administration was working "day and night" to remove "bottlenecks."

"I certainly hope that's the case. It should be the case," Netanyahu said.

President Joe Bidens team is enraged and frustrated by Netanyahus video, a U.S. official told ABC News Senior White House Correspondent Selina Wang on Wednesday, adding that U.S. officials have made clear to the Israelis that Netanyahus video is inaccurate and out of line.

At the same time, the White House is pushing back on claims that a high-level U.S.-Israel meeting on Iran scheduled for Thursday was canceled specifically because of the video.

While they admit the meeting has been called off, they say its not that straightforward.

A specific time had not been finalized yet because of scheduling, two U.S. officials say. One official says national security adviser Jake Sullivan had been traveling and timing had not been locked down yet and he wanted to reschedule.

PHOTO: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks during a joint press conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the US State Department, in Washington, D.C., June 18, 2024. (Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images)

During a news conference Tuesday at the State Department, Blinken was asked for his version of his conversation with Netanyahu.

While the secretary declined to confirm or deny Netanyahu's characterization of their discussion, he repeatedly underscored the Biden administration's commitment to Israel's defense.

"It's very important to remember that our security relationship with Israel goes well beyond Gaza. Israel is facing a multiplicity of threats and challenges including in the north, from Hezbollah, from Iran, from the Houthis in the Red Sea," Blinken said.

He also emphasized Biden's promise to ensure Israel has "what it needs to effectively defend itself against these threats," arguing it was critical to avoiding greater escalation in the Middle East.

"There has been no change in our posture," Blinken insisted, saying it was "regular order" with the exception of one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs paused over Biden's publicly expressed concern the imprecise munitions could be used in the southern Gazan city of Rafah and other areas heavily populated by civilians.

Two officials involved in approving arms transfers to Israel backed up the secretary's comments, telling ABC News the administration is continuing to process both longstanding requests in the pipeline and new orders made after the onset of the conflict.

Although the Biden administration has faced increasing pressure from members of the president's own party to halt military support for Israel, Blinken invoked emergency authorities twice in December to bypass congressional review and speed up arms shipments to the country.

PHOTO: In this photo released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on June, 2024, Israeli soldiers conducting a military operation in Gaza Strip. (Israel Defense Forces Handout via SIPA via Shutterstock)

MORE: Biden admin doesn't have 'complete information' to verify whether Israel used US arms to violate international law in Gaza

"Since Hamas' vicious attack on Oct. 7, we've rushed billions of dollars in security assistance to Israel to enable them to defend themselves," Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said Tuesday. "And we are going to continue to provide them the security assistance they need for defense."

While the administration has promised it will continue to support the Israeli military, a review of U.S. defense transfers ordered by President Biden cast significant doubt on whether Israel was using American arms in compliance with international humanitarian law.

The report, which was released in May, found it was "reasonable to assess" that defense articles provided by the U.S. been used by Israeli security forces in Gaza in ways there were "inconsistent" with the country's legal obligations or best practices for mitigating civilian harm.

ABC News' Anne Flaherty and Justin Gomez contributed to this report.

Biden administration strongly denies Netanyahu's claim US is blocking arms shipments amid war with Hamas originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
One of the main pieces of evidence against David Morales, the former Spanish soldier whose company spied on Julian Assange and his lawyers during his prolonged stay at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, has disappeared. The Spanish police did not deliver to Judge Santiago Pedraz the complete file of the Samsung S7 phone used by Morales to communicate with the alleged CIA agents to whom he provided the WikiLeaks founders defense strategy, according to documents of the judicial investigation to which EL PAIS has had access. After repeated judicial requests, officers responded that they do not know the location of the complete file. Judge Pedraz has ordered its immediate recovery.

Prosecutor Carlos Bautista has complained about the disappearance of this file, which he describes as essential to the case. He has demanded it be found because it contains more data than that made available to the parties. The Public Prosecutors Office said: It is extremely striking that the police unit has delivered the UFDR (Universal Forensic Data Report) and UFDX (Universal Forensic Data Exchange) files from the other devices and has not done so precisely from this one. Previously, the Prosecutors Office also complained about the certain paralysis caused by the exasperating slowness of the police force involved in the analysis of all the elements seized.

Judge Pedraz has summoned the officers of the Cybercrime Unit to appear in court and make a copy  in his presence  of both files on the Samsung S7 in an attempt to recover the omitted information and find out who is responsible for its disappearance. Spains National Police declined to respond to this newspapers questions.

Samsung S7, key evidence

During the search of Morales home and offices in the Spanish city of Jerez de la Frontera, in September 2019, the investigators primary objective was precisely to seize the Samsung S7 G930F phone that protected witnesses (company workers) had configured for Morales so that he could allegedly communicate with the CIA. This detail was communicated to the officers who detained Morales before the arrest took place. But the police handed over the complete files of all the phones, computers and electronic devices seized from Morales home and offices, except for the files on the Samsung phone. This police action has meant that the Userdata folder  which stored Moraless conversations on WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Proton Mail and Skype  has been removed from the case.

Morales  the owner of UC Global SL, a company that was in charge of security at the Ecuadorian embassy in London  was arrested two months after an EL PAIS investigation released the audios and videos that its workers recorded of the Australian activist inside the embassy. This material was presented as evidence in a criminal complaint filed by Assanges defense team, and Spains High Court, the Audiencia Nacional, opened an investigation into the violation of attorney-client privilege, misappropriation of funds and money laundering.

The Samsung S7 was the only phone from which information was extracted in situ during the raids and searches of the police operation. This did not happen with any of the other phones and devices seized, according to the police response to the magistrate, who waited months to receive an explanation from the officers. The police response sent to the Court of Instruction No. 5 of the Audiencia Nacional, which is in charge of the case, contrasts with the testimony of the lawyer of the justice administration, who recorded the seizure of all phones.

The consequence of this anomaly is that the file uploaded by the police unit to the cloud  where evidence is downloaded and accessed by the parties involved in the case  is not the original and complete UFDX file, but only the UFDR file, which is derived from the previous one but does not represent the complete copy of the device. The UFDR file provided by the agents is missing the Userdata folder, which stored the data of the messaging applications. Furthermore, Assanges defense team points out that the UFDR file uploaded to the cloud does not come from the UFED Touch dump machine, as is the case with all the other phones in the investigation, but from a personal computer that was seized.

Agent Paisa

The Samsung S7 phone had an alternative external keyboard called Swiftkey that records the words that are typed on that device and thanks to that feature, experts have been able to partially rescue some conversations in English about the embassy, Assange, the CIA and the agent Paisa, a Morales collaborator in the United States allegedly linked to the CIA. But these conversations do not appear recorded anywhere other than the keyboard, since the Userdata folder that stored the missing conversations from messaging apps was deleted.

Spains General Commissariat of Judicial Police told Judge Pedraz in a police document that on February 7, all copies of the devices were delivered, with none remaining in this section. Thus, it is not known where these files could be found nor where they could be located within the devices delivered. The magistrate has ordered the Technical Group of the Cybercrime Unit, which uploaded the data, to examine the hard drives delivered by the investigators and extract a copy of the UFDX and UFDR files from Morales Samsung S7.

This is the second time that it has been discovered that police have omitted relevant information contained in the electronic devices seized from the owner of UC Global, SL. Last year, Assanges team were authorized to make a second copy of the material seized by the agents. The new document dump revealed more than 213.1 gigabytes, 551,616 files and 973 email files that had been omitted by the police.

Among the new files, a folder titled Operations & Projects was saved, containing directories organized according to geographical area. Each region or country is specified, along with the details of the services to be provided. In the area corresponding to North America  within the USA directory  there is a file called CIA. Inside  in a folder marked Videos  images of recordings are stored. These were obtained via the hidden cameras and microphones that UC Global installed in the Embassy of Ecuador in London to surveil the meetings of the WikiLeaks founder.

Investigacion@elpais.es

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US envoy Amos Hochstein told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a meeting on Tuesday in Israel that his public comments this week that the US is withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel were unproductive and more importantly, completely untrue, a senior US official told CNN.

In that same meeting, US Ambassador to Israel Jack Lew also reiterated to Netanyahu that his comments were not correct, walking through all of the arms the US has transferred to Israel in recent months, according to two senior US officials. A spokesperson for the US Embassy in Israel confirmed that Lew spoke with Netanyahu on Tuesday. The spokesperson reiterated that with the exception of ongoing discussion regarding large diameter munitions, other items are either delivered or in the process of being delivered, or in the normal review process.

Axios first reported on the exchange between Hochstein and Netanyahu.

The meeting reflected the administrations mounting frustration with the Israeli leaders comments. Another senior administration official told CNN that the public statement from the Israeli prime minister was perplexing and wrong.

This is not the first time Netanyahu has publicly lambasted the Biden administration in the course of the Israel-Hamas war, but this weeks public dispute comes as the stakes around the war in Gaza and a potential further conflict between Israel and Hezbollah remain incredibly high. Both the Israeli prime minister and the President Joe Biden are facing growing political pressure at home over their handling of the war.

Hochsteins comments to Netanyahu werent the first time US officials have pushed back in private against public comments made by Netanyahu, but some US officials would like the Biden administration to go further, an administration official said.

That frustration appears to have led to the US postponing one meeting of the US-Israel Strategic Consultative Group (SDG) initially slated for Thursday, where Iran was one of the agenda items, according to a senior administration official. But that official and a White House official disputed that the meeting was moved in response to comments made by Netanyahu and stressed that it had never been firmed up. Meetings between US and Israeli officials this week,including on Wednesday, are set to continue, according to the first official, and the Thursday meeting in question is likely to be rescheduled  possibly for as early as next week

Still, a different senior US official insisted that the Thursday meeting was taken off the schedule to send a message to Netanyahu, similar to how the Israeli leader canceled a visit to the US in March by a delegation in protest at a US abstention on a key UN vote, the official said.

We have been working to find a time to schedule the next SDG that accounts for the travel and availability of principals, but have not yet fully finalized the details so nothing has been cancelled, a White House official told CNN. In the meantime, meetings with Israeli officials are being held throughout the week at expert and senior levels on a range of topics. As we said in the briefing yesterday, we have no idea what the Prime Minister is talking about, but thats not a reason for rescheduling a meeting.

Netanyahu publicly claimed the Biden administration was withholding weapons in a video posted to X on Tuesday, claiming that Secretary of State Antony Blinken assured me that the administration is working day and night to remove these bottlenecks.

The top US diplomat refused to discuss his conversation with Netanyahu last week, saying he was not going to talk about what we said in diplomatic conversations.

I can just say, again, that we have a commitment to make sure that Israel has what it needs to defend itself against a whole variety of threats, he said at a news conference Tuesday. He also confirmed that one shipment of heavy bombs remains on hold.

We continue to move these different cases through our system on regular order, Blinken said, noting that it takes a long time to move these things, and a number of the things that are going to Israel wont get there for years.

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President Biden is running out of time to complete his goal of ending Israels war against Hamas and implement a megadeal to reshape the Middle East toward a position of peace.

The administration is focusing all its efforts to first get Hamas to agree to a three-phase, cease-fire deal that would establish, immediately, at least a six-week pause in fighting in the Gaza Strip.

But counter-proposals by Hamas have contributed to weeks of back and forth and are testing the hope and patience of mediators  and raising questions of what is Plan B.

Im not sure how many more days I have of saying, Well, Im still hoping  within this framework, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said during a roundtable with reporters Tuesday hosted by the Christian Science Monitor.

Biden has sought to bring international pressure to bear against Hamas, securing the support of the Israeli government; approval by the United Nations Security Council, and an endorsement by the Group of 7 nations and Arab and Gulf states on a proposal he laid out May 31.

The first phase of the proposal includes a temporary cease-fire where Hamas would release in batches the 120 Israelis it kidnapped from Israel on Oct. 7, while Israel is expected to commit to release Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Supporters of the cease-fire deal say it is imperative to surge humanitarian support to Palestinians and ease suffering marked by displacement, starvation, and critically needed medical care.

A group of Israeli families of hostages held by Hamas have put their support behind Bidens cease-fire proposal. Andrey Kozlov, one of four Israelis rescued from Hamas captivity in early June in a daring and deadly operation, called for a cease-fire to secure the release of remaining hostages.

For the hostages still in Gaza, there is one decision, only one, it is the deal between Israel and Hamas, he said in a video message published last week.

Warner put the blame on Hamass leader hiding in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, describing him as holding a reputation as a cold, calculating leader and who reportedly views the tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties in the war as necessary sacrifices.

This is the kind of leader whos for the notion of the Palestinian people but doesnt give a hoot about how many Palestinians die in this conflict, Warner said.

Bidens priority plan is to use the initial weeks of a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas to negotiate a permanent end to the war, establish new governance in Gaza and lay out a pathway to a Palestinian state. Those commitments would then allow Saudi Arabia to establish ties with Israel as a broader security grouping against Iran.

Warner said that efforts to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia absolutely depends on first getting to a cease-fire.

Barbara Leaf, the assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern Affairs, described Sinwar as a psychopath and messianic, but said mediators are in intensive discussions to bridge gaps between Hamass proposed changes to the cease-fire proposal.

We do believe ultimately, this proposal is the best roadway to get an end to the conflict now that would enable a multitude of things and that would ultimately be offered the prospect for an end to the conflict altogether, she told a Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee hearing on the Middle East on Tuesday.

Reality has a way of intruding

Sinwars obstinance is only one challenge to the Biden administrations grand plan.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, blamed by some Democrats in Congress as responsible for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, lashed out in a video at the Biden administration for what he said was an inconceivable decision to hold back delivery of U.S. weapons and munitions.

Biden officials rejected Netanyahus characterization  the president has paused one shipment of heavy bombs to Israel  but the episode underscored the fraught tensions the U.S. is having with the Israeli leader over the course of the war.

Netanyahus critics have accused him of prioritizing the military operation against Hamas over diplomacy, and U.S. and Israeli officials have also criticized the prime minister as failing to talk about what authority can rule Gaza instead of Israeli military control.

We are potentially weeks, maybe a month or two away from the formal military operations coming to a close and it is extraordinary that we have no viable plan from the Israeli government as to what comes next, said Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), chair of a Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee that oversees the Middle East, pressing Leaf on the administrations engagement with Israel.

There is still insufficient planning, to say the least, on the part of the Israeli government, Leaf responded.

Netanyahu has shot down any talk of the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority reasserting rule in Gaza, generally rejecting the idea of an independent Palestinian state that would link both territories.

Still, Netanyahu has, at times, signaled openness to some sort of civil governing authority for Palestinians in Gaza. He has spoken about Israel maintaining freedom of military movement to address security threats, but he floated ideas about Arab countries taking responsibility for some security aspects of the territory.

Leaf, responding to criticisms that Arab and Gulf countries are unlikely to step up responsibilities to help stabilize the situation with the Palestinians, said theres no magical thinking on the part of the administration.

These get to the heart of politics for every one of these governments and for the Palestinians, and the Israelis as well. But I think reality has a way of pushing even those who cant imagine a concept such as the [Palestinian Authority] returning to Gaza, reality has a way of intruding, she said.

Leaf said she is likely headed to the Middle East this weekend to continue discussions with Israeli, Arab and Gulf partners on a day-after scenario.

There will have to be a political alternative and thats what were in the process of putting together these concepts, she said.

Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said he is also engaged in discussions bringing regional partners onboard for a day-after scenario.

Ive had individual discussions as well as collective discussions with the Saudis, with the Emirates, with the Jordanians, with the Egyptians, with the Qataris, all of them have been showing signs of an interest in participating  including the governance issues, including the economic issues and those types of issues, he told a roundtable of reporters last week.

Theres a lot of fill in the blanks that havent been quite filled in, a lot of volunteers that are willing to step forward, provided that the conditions are met, that theres a real peace in the region and theres a commitment to move forward to two states, he said.

Saudi Arabia key ally in path to peace

Biden has cultivated Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as a key ally in pushing forward any prospect of a lasting peace between Israel and the Palestinians  given a cease-fire can be implemented to start.

The president has long-since abandoned his campaign promise of making Saudi Arabia a pariah state, recognizing along with Democrat and Republican lawmakers that closer ties with Riyadh are part of a bigger effort to counter Iran and weaken China and Russias influence in the region.

Regional military cooperation to counter an Iranian missile attack on Israel in April served as a real-life demonstration of the defensive power linking together the U.S., Israel, and Saudi Arabia, along with other partners.

The Saudi crown prince is laser focused on securing a mutual defense treaty with the U.S. and assistance in building a civil, nuclear program. That deal is contingent on Saudi Arabia establishing ties with Israel, which Prince Mohammed said can only happen if theres an Israeli commitment towards agreeing to recognizing a Palestinian state.

In meetings with MBS [Prince Mohammed], I saw someone that I think was prepared to make the decision  if we could get this defense alliance with the United States  would stop trying to play both sides against the middle, and I think that is in Americas best interest, Warner said.

All or nothing

Biden officials and their allies in Congress say that all parts of this megadeal must move together or not move at all  cease-fire, the day-after plan, a pathway to a Palestinian state, and normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Hamas has not made public its changes to the cease-fire proposal Biden laid out May 31, but the disagreement appears to be related to Hamass demand for an Israeli commitment for a full end to the war and withdrawal of Israeli troops. Netanyahu has said a full end to the war can only happen through negotiation, the so-called Phase 2 of Bidens three-phase deal.

Warner, while raising doubt about Sinwars commitment to negotiate, projected some optimism that a cease-fire can be reached based on experiences over the course of the war. But he also cautioned about how quickly talks can fall apart.

He described a moment in early May where Hamas and Israel appeared poised to come to an agreement, but a Hamas rocket attack killing three Israeli soldiers triggered a collapse of talks.

Weve gotten close so many times, but that moment when, this was only a blip in the news, it was probably the time we were closest when Israels leaning, I think Hamas was ready, and there happened to be a random attack that killed three [Israeli military] soldiers, he said.

As of these last few weeks, the blame lies with Hamass leadership, Sinwar in particular, the chair said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Biden policy is welcome relief for Americans with spouses in the country illegally

Genaro Vicencio, an immigrant from Mexico, poses for a picture with his American wife Cindy Maduena and their son Israel

Genaro Vicencio, an immigrant from Mexico, poses for a picture with his American wife Cindy Maduena and their son Israel

By Kristina Cooke and Ted Hesson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - When news broke of U.S. President Joe Bidens plan to provide a path to citizenship for certain immigrants who entered the country illegally and are married to U.S. citizens, Pennsylvania-based immigration lawyer Bridget Cambria didnt need long to think of clients it could help.

Over the years, she had met with many such couples, explaining to them how difficult it was going to be for the immigrant spouse to get U.S. legal permanent residency. The process, in most cases, required the immigrant to leave the country, potentially enduring years of family separation before being eligible to return.

"When I called them, it was nice to tell them something happy for once, Cambria said. "Some of them cried, most of them were just in disbelief or shock."

Bidens move on Tuesday that would allow hundreds of thousands of spouses of U.S. citizens to legalize their immigration status without leaving the United States is a huge development for the families involved, but it is also a high-stakes political gambit in an election year.

Biden, a Democrat seeking another term in November, has struggled with high levels of illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border. His Republican challenger, hardliner Donald Trump, has pushed a message that immigrants are committing more violent crimes than U.S. citizens, despite statistics to the contrary, and "poisoning the blood" of the country.

Biden has walked a political tightrope in recent months - toughening his stance on border enforcement while trying not to alienate liberal voters and Latinos. The Democrat beat Trump in 2020 when Biden pledged a more humane approach to immigration, a sharp contrast to Trump's four years in office.

When it comes to immigration policy, registered voters prefer Trump over Biden by a 17 percentage point margin, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in mid-May.

One of the couples Cambria, the Pennsylvania immigration lawyer, called was Carmen Miranda, 56, and her husband Francisco Cortez, 52, of Reading, Pennsylvania.

Miranda met Cortez, who is Mexican, through a friend when she was in her early 20s. He had entered the country illegally in 1987, and she was a single mother of two young children. They dated for several years before getting married in 2003.

Miranda, who has multiple sclerosis and dwarfism and depends on Cortez to support her, said she was excited when Cambria called her with the news.

We waited and waited for so, so long, Miranda said. I apologize if I start crying.

Miranda said she could not have managed without Cortez if he had left the country to apply for legal status and entered a years-long limbo. I need him here, she said.

Genaro Vicencio, 24, who crossed the border from Mexico when he was 10 years old, met his American wife Cindy Maduena when they were both teenagers. They have a 6-year-old son.

Vicencio, who lives in Temple, Pennsylvania, said he has constantly feared that he would have to leave the U.S. for a long time and his young son would grow up without a father. He is still trying to comprehend the magnitude of the announcement for his family, he said.

Its that I don't have to worry, 'Is my son going to have a dad? Is my family going to be stable?', he said. Every morning I had to wake up and think about that. This is a huge stress reliever.

Vicencio is hoping that obtaining legal status will enable him to expand his painting and electrician businesses and access business loans, he said.

But most of all, he said, he is happy to begin to build a stable future in the United States.

I know some people in this country might be like, Oh, it's not a great country. This is a beautiful country. I love it.

(Reporting by Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Ted Hesson in Washington; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
(Bloomberg) -- The Biden administration shouldnt prioritize its geopolitical relationship with India above insisting Prime Minister Narendra Modi hold accountable those behind an alleged plot to assassinate an American citizen on US soil, a top Democratic senator said.

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It would be a huge mistake if the Biden administration let this slide, Senator Chris Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said in an interview on Tuesday. We need to apply our law  obviously  to our adversaries. But also we need to apply our standards and principles and laws to our friends and partners. Otherwise, wed lose credibility.

Van Hollens criticism of this facet of the US-India relationship is rare among President Joe Bidens fellow Democrats. He has also been outspoken in his disapproval of the administrations policy toward Israel.

US prosecutors accused an Indian government agent last year of directing a plot to assassinate the American  a Sikh activist in New York, Gurpatwant Singh Pannum, whos been labeled a terrorist by New Delhi. Prosecutors alleged that plan was part of a broader Indian effort to target critics abroad, including the murder of a Canadian Sikh activist earlier that year.

The Biden administration and Modis government have downplayed the allegations, saying they dont threaten their relationship, which is central to US efforts in Asia to counter China, Washingtons main strategic rival.

The senators criticism comes as the US and India continue to deepen their partnership. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is in New Delhi this week holding talks with Indian officials and Modi on expanding cooperation between the two on everything from semiconductor chips to defense manufacturing and cooperation. Its the first high-level visit to India by a US official since Modi won a third term earlier this month.

Indias government has largely denied the allegations of its involvement in targeting Sikh separatists, but announced an investigation into the American case. In March, senior Indian officials told Bloomberg that Indias investigation found that rogue operatives not authorized by the government were involved in the plot.

A congressional aide previously said that senators would not see an Indian investigation that blamed rogue operatives as credible.

Police in the Czech Republic this week extradited an Indian suspect wanted by the US for involvement in the alleged plot. The suspect, Nikhil Gupta, on Monday pleaded not guilty in Manhattan federal court to charges of conspiring to kill Pannun, according to media reports.

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President Joe Biden. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images.)

WASHINGTON  The Biden administration Tuesday announced deportation protections for long-term undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens, along with quicker approval of work permits for those in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.

President Joe Biden will formally make the announcement during an afternoon White House event to celebrate the 12th anniversary of the DACA program. The initiative was launched during the Obama administration and was meant to temporarily protect undocumented children brought into the United States without authorization.

The new policies were previewed by senior administration officials to reporters late Monday.

The new DACA policy will allow those recipients who have graduated from an accredited university and have an offer by a U.S. employer for a highly skilled job to quickly qualify for one of the existing temporary work visas, such as an H-1B visa.

The new policies came two weeks after Biden enacted his harshest crackdown on immigration with a partial ban on asylum proceedings at the southern border. Immigration remains a top issue for voters and for Bidens GOP rival, former President Donald Trump.

Democrats and immigration advocates have long pressed the Biden administration to instill permanent protections for the nearly 579,000 DACA recipients as they await a decision from the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals that could deem the program unlawful. The legal dispute is likely to head to the Supreme Court.

Many immigration policy experts have called DACA outdated, because there are now thousands of undocumented people who are not eligible for the program because they were not even born yet. To qualify, an undocumented person needs to have continuously resided in the U.S. since 2007.

Biden pushed to take action

Americans with undocumented spouses have expressed their frustration and pushed for the Biden administration to use executive action to grant relief for the more than 1.1 million Americans who fear their undocumented spouses could face deportation.

The deportation protections to those married to a U.S. citizens are a one-time action expected to allow roughly 500,000 noncitizen spouses and their children to apply for a lawful permanent residence  a green card  under certain requirements.

To qualify, a noncitizen must have resided in the U.S. for 10 years as of Monday, June 17, 2024, and be married to a U.S. citizen since that date as well. That spouse who is a noncitizen also cannot be deemed a security threat.

The Department of Homeland Security will consider those applications, which are expected to be open by the end of summer, on a case-by-case basis, a senior administration official said.

This move is also expected to affect roughly 50,000 children who are noncitizens and have an immigrant parent married to a U.S. citizen.

For those children to qualify, they have to be 21 or younger, unmarried and the marriage between the parents has to have taken place before the child turned 18, a senior administration official said.

Under current U.S. immigration law, if a noncitizen enters the country without authorization, they are ineligible for permanent legal status and would be required to leave the U.S. and reenter legally through a green card application by their U.S. spouse, which is a lengthy process that can take years.

The challenges and uncertainty of this process result in many eligible spouses not applying for permanent residence, a senior administration official said.

Application info coming

More information on the application and eligibility process will be published in the Federal Register in the coming weeks, a senior administration official said.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which oversees the legal immigration system, has a similar program that allows noncitizens who are immediate family members of U.S. military service members to obtain green cards without leaving the country.

This announcement utilizes existing authorities to keep families together, a senior administration official said. But only Congress can fix our broken immigration system.

Any immigration reform from Congress is unlikely, with Republicans in control of the House and Democrats controlling the Senate. A bipartisan border security deal fell apart earlier this year. There was no pathway to citizenship in that deal for DACA recipients or longtime immigrants.

The closest Congress came to bipartisan immigration reform was in 2013, when the Gang of Eight, made up of four Republican and four Democratic senators, crafted a bill that would create a pathway to citizenship for millions of undocumented people.

It passed the Senate, but Republican House Speaker John Boehner never brought the bill to the floor for a vote.

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ABILENE, Texas (BCH Weather)  As summer approaches, temperatures continue to rise across the Big Country and beyond. With these rising temperatures comes the risk of wildfires. Heres what you need to know about local fire safety when considering burning during these drier than normal conditions.

FILE  Shackelford County; Oct. 2019 (Photo by Darwin Kimmel)

Local authorities of each county here in the Big Country often implement fire burning bans during times of extreme fire danger. These bans typically, but not always, restrict the use of open flames like campfires, fireworks, and outdoor grilling. The leading goal of these bans is to minimize all human-caused wildfires.

According to the National Park Service, nearly 85% of wildfires are caused by humans.

Key factors that help prompt burn bans include:

Weather Hot, dry, and especially windy conditions increase fire risk.

Vegetation Dry grass and brush can easily catch fire.

Current Fire Activity Ongoing wildfires can lead to multiple county-wide burn bans.



FILE  Taylor County; May 2022

While these bans are another way to help reduce wildfires, here are some more fire safety tips.

Follow Local Fire Bans Always check for and comply with your local countys issuance of fire bans. Be Responsible While Building Fires Use designated fire rings and keep fires small. Never leave any fire unattended. Extinguish Fires Completely Use water to smother flames and stir ashes around until cool. Dispose of Cigarettes Properly Use ashtrays and never discard butts on the ground.

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service burn ban map, the following Big Country counties are under active burn bans: Coke, Fisher, Knox, Mitchell, Nolan, Shackelford, Stonewall, and Throckmorton.

Stay informed through local news and community alerts on current fire conditions and when these burn bans are put into effect. While local fire departments and other community organizations work closely to educate residents of the Big Country and other parts of Texas, it is ultimately up to you and your actions to help reduce the spread of these summer wildfires.

You can also stay informed on all the latest with the BCH2Go app on your phone for Apple or Android. You can sign up to get push alerts and important notifications on severe weather events and local news.

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A decade ago, during the implosion 2014 Idaho Republican Convention in Moscow, longtime GOP operative Ken Burgess warned that the tinfoil hat caucus was on the verge of taking over the GOP.

A decade later at its convention in Coeur dAlene, which took place this weekend, that prediction looks truer than ever. The far-right faction of the GOP holds a decisive majority.

Dorothy Moon, a former state senator with longstanding ties to the extremist John Birch Society, easily won re-election as the state chair. Efforts to remove planks of the party platform that would revoke voters rights to elect their senators and to end the federal reserve were unsuccessful, while planks to end funding for all post-high-school education programs and to count the destruction of embryos used for IVF as murder were passed.

Steve Taggart, a moderate political activist and attorney from Idaho Falls who served as a delegate from Bonneville County, called it a freak show.

There was not one voter drawn into the fold by the GOP convention, Taggart said. It was, How many people can we offend?

But Taggart sees a way out of the continuing yearly drift further and further right both within the GOP and the Idaho Legislature. Theres reason to take him seriously.

Taggart was one of a number of traditional Republicans who rallied in May to decisively take over the Bonneville GOPs central committee, which had long been held by the far-right, led by people like Doyle Beck, Bryan Smith and Mark Fuller, none of whom are part of the county committee today (though Fuller was elected the state partys first vice chairman, and Smith was elected national committeeman).

At the same time, eastern Idahos legislative delegation, which makes up about a quarter of the Legislature, has moved decisively toward the center in the last several years as far-right lawmakers like Ron Nate, Bryan Zollinger, Tony Potts, Karey Hanks, Chad Christensen and  if the current results hold up to a recount  Julianne Young have been shown the door one after another.

This stands in sharp contrast to much of the rest of the state, especially the Magic Valley and the Treasure Valley, where far-right gains have been significant and grown over time. And it stands in contrast to Kootenai County, where efforts by moderates to take back the party infrastructure narrowly failed in May.

But Taggart argues that the ground has never been more promising for traditional Republicans to gain ground because the dominant far-right wing of the party keeps taking deeply unpopular positions.

And there were some doozies during the convention. One resolution, if followed to the letter, would require defunding of all Idahos universities, community colleges, technical programs and even opposition to federal programs like the GI Bill, Idaho Falls Sen. Kevin Cook, who serves on the budget-writing Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee, pointed out in an interview.

It would also require defunding medical school and residency programs designed to address Idahos doctor shortage, a program designed to plug the agricultural veterinarian shortage, agricultural research grants and grant programs to train students for careers in nuclear energy.

Cook said he will continue to vote to fund such programs, ignoring the partys resolution. Thats the position you can expect nearly every lawmaker to take.

Theyre expecting Republican lawmakers to follow that line, or theyll discipline them, Taggart said. And lawmakers are just laughing.

Like much of the rest of the increasingly far-right state party platform, its a formula for losing elections, Taggart said.

Im trying to imagine someone in Ada County running on defunding (Boise State) or (College of Western Idaho), he laughed.

Another resolution, if implemented, would mean that clinics in Idaho would likely cease providing in-vitro fertilization treatment  as happened recently in Alabama after the state supreme court ruled that frozen embryos can be counted as children.

Former Sen. Dean Mortimer, who had a reputation as one of the Senates arch-conservatives in his 12 years in office, was flabbergasted by that resolution in particular.

As a family, we have experienced (IVF), Mortimer said. We have a grandson because of it. Im grateful for it. I was really concerned with the way that platform was put together.

Thats a view that isnt unique to Mortimer. Its hard to find a family who doesnt have someone they know or love who exists because of IVF. Think voters will support a bill to effectively ban it?

To see how unpopular the positions of the far-right have long been in eastern Idaho, you just had to look at election results.

Nearly every time the Bonneville GOP took a position on a candidate or ballot measure  for example, opposing the creation of the College of Eastern Idaho, which voters supported more than two-to-one  the party was walloped. The problem with precinct committee officer races (the representative of each precinct who make up the rank and file of the party) is that nobody knows who the candidates are or what side theyre on.

So the strategy was to draw the line and stand clearly on one side of it.

Taggart said his message was, If you like Dorothy Moon, Doyle Beck and Bryan Smith, vote for my opponent.

He won with 74% of the vote, unseating the incumbent, Paul Voegeli, who supported efforts to investigate and censure local lawmakers, according to the Post Register.

That pattern repeated across Bonneville County, and in a single election, the longstanding dominance of the far-right in the county central committee evaporated. Today, 76% of precinct committee officer seats in Bonneville are held by traditional Republicans  a reversal about as profound as if the Democrats took a majority of the House in November.

Taggart said that strategy is a model for how old-school Republicans can take back the ground theyve lost since 2014.

Everyone is always afraid to say: Heres the good people; heres the bad people, Taggart said. Thats what you have to do. The biggest mistake people have made is to not run directly against them. You have to identify the danger. Thats the Dorothy Moon wing of the party. President (Ronald) Reagan wouldnt recognize them. Their biggest enemy is Gov. (Brad) Little, not the Democrats.

Bryan Clark is an opinion writer for the Idaho Statesman.
HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY)  Although sentencing for Cory Bigsby for second-degree murder and concealing a body had been scheduled three months ago for June 18, his defense attorneys tried to get it delayed another two weeks.

Justice has been served for Codi: Cory Bigsby sentenced to 45 years in prison for sons death

Bigsby was convicted in March in the beating death of his son Codi, 3, and concealing his body.

Previously: Cory Bigsby found guilty in murder of son, Codi

The probation department prepared a pre-sentence report for Bigsby and sent it to defense attorney Amina Matheny-Willard June 6. But co-counsel Curtis Brown told the judge Tuesday that he did not get the opportunity to review the report with Bigsby. Commonwealths Attorney Anton Bell argued that notice to one attorney was the same as notice to all. Judge James Hawks agreed and denied the motion to delay.

Thou shalt not kill: Bigsby prosecutor never interested in showing mercy

The statute that covers pre-sentence reports talks about delivering it to the attorney for the accused, and it doesnt use the plural, said former Virginia Beach Commonwealths Attorney Harvey Bryant. Im wondering why the court didnt take a brief recess to let defense counsel go over the pre-sentence report with Bigsby. That would have solved a lot of potential questions and issues.

Matheny-Willard told the court she was concerned that the controversy over reviewing the report with Bigsby could be grounds for appeal on the basis of ineffective counsel.

Bryant says the move might have been more strategic than it first appeared.

The way this case has been conducted, theyve taken every advantage that they could to delay and ask for continuances, Bryant said. And it may well have have been for that reason.

Hawks sentenced Bigsby to the maximum 40 years for the second-degree murder conviction, and the maximum five additional years for concealing Codis body.

Bryant said the best Bigsby could hope for on appeal would be a re-sentencing  and nothing better that what he has now.

Judge Hawks would give him the same sentence three months from now, or six months from now, that he gave him yesterday, he said.

Another potential grounds for appeal would be a murder conviction without a body. Codi Bigsby was never found.

Its well-established in Virginia and many other states that you dont have to produce a body, Bryant said, if you have convinced the jury beyond a reasonable doubt that, in fact, a homicide occurred.

Brown said Tuesday the jury was unfair in the March trial because it didnt represent the people of Hampton.

This is Hampton. When you come to Hampton you expect to get more Blacks than anything else. That wasnt the case, we had nine [Whites] and three [Blacks], Brown said.

But Bryant said thats not likely to stand up on appeal, either.

Those are rarely granted unless he can show substantial evidence that the jury was prejudiced because the defendant was Black, Bryant said.

And some took offense at the suggestion that a majority Black jury would have found Bigsby not guilty of beating his son to death.

They should be offended by it because thats just ridiculous, frankly, Bryant said.

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WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Lawmakers in Washington are pushing to crackdown on revenge porn, in particular, the kind generated by artificial intelligence.

If passed, big tech companies could be forced to get more aggressive in policing

Lawmakers say Washington and Big Tech need to get ahead of this problem, especially as it relates to kids in school.

It was really scary to even go to schooljust out of fear, said teenager Elliston Berry.

Elliston Berry told senators her sense of security was shattered after someone at school used AI to create and share nude pictures featuring her.

I was so excited for high school, but this totally threw off my year, said Berry.

Lawmakers say big tech companies must take this emerging problem more seriously.

He didnt take someone elses nude images and put their faces on them. Instead, he took their actual bodies, using AI, to make the images look even more real, said Anna McAdams.

Now senators are pushing for passage of the Take It Down act.

The proposal builds on existing federal law and would force social media companies to remove deepfake revenge porn images within 48 hours.

Were going to look for a way to move those bills forwardvery important bills to us, said Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).

The move is a rare bipartisan effort in Congress, to address a problem some lawmakers say tech companies already know exactly how to handle.

If you put online a scene from the Lion King, thatll get pulled down immediately, said Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas.).

Senators say tech companies would be held to account by FTC action, potentially including fines if the law passes, and said those corporations will soon have to decide soon how to respond.

This is the right solution, and frankly its what they should be doing anyway, said Cruz.

The legislation was introduced this week, so far, its not scheduled for a full floor vote.

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Vladimir Putin and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un signed a strategic partnership agreement in Pyongyang Wednesday, which includes a pact on mutual defense in case of aggression, the Russian president himself said after the meeting. The treaty will raise the interaction between the two countries to a new level and touches on all kinds of sectors, from trade to security. The pact will also heighten Western concerns about the growing partnership between two countries with nuclear arsenals and aligned over the war in Ukraine. Putin, in fact, has linked Moscows rapprochement with Pyongyang to Western support for Ukraine in the face of the Russian invasion. After underlining that the United States already supplies high-precision weapons and F-16 planes to Kyiv to strike targets on Russian territory, he added that Moscow does not exclude developing military-technical cooperation with North Korea, as reported by Reuters. Kim stated that the pact is thoroughly peaceful and defensive " in nature.

The clocks of Moscow and Pyongyang, two countries isolated by a large part of the international community, have been aligning out of necessity. Firstly, because of the invasion of Ukraine; secondly, because of North Koreas nuclear program. In his first visit to the neighboring country in 24 years, the Russian president took advantage of his appearance at the end of the face-to-face with Kim to call for a review of the system of restrictions imposed by the United Nations Security Council on Pyongyang. We will continue to oppose the practice of sanctions strangulation as a tool that the West is accustomed to using to maintain its hegemony in politics, economy and other spheres, Putin said.

The formal meeting between the two delegations began Wednesday morning (local time) in Pyongyang with anti-Western sophistry. We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction, the Russian president told Kim at the beginning of the face-to-face meeting, before alluding to a struggle against the hegemonic policy imposed for decades, the imperialist policy on the part of the United States and its satellites towards the Russian Federation.

Kim said that the relations between North Korea and Russia are entering a period of new great prosperity, and expressed his countrys full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation on Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un shake hands during the official welcome ceremony in the Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Gavriil Grigorov (Pool/Sputnik/Kremlin/AP)

Concern in West over Moscow-Pyongyang deal

Washington, which suspects North Korea of supplying ammunition to Russia, sees Putins trip as a sign of Moscows desperation  a term used Tuesday by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken  to secure arms supplies. South Korean intelligence services estimate that Pyongyang has managed to secretly send Russia almost five million projectiles and dozens of ballistic missiles. The U.S. estimates that 11,000 containers have been used to transport this ammunition. The supply line, vital for a Russian war industry that is losing steam after more than two years of war, allegedly began after Kims visit to Russia last September.

There are also concerns about what Moscow will be handing over in return to a country isolated by the world and hit by international sanctions due to its nuclear program. Washington has denounced the increase of Russian refined oil exports above the limits set by the United Nations, and NATO expressed Tuesday, through its Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, its fear of potential Russian support for the North Korean atomic and missile programs.

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Wonsik has assured that Russia has supplied North Korea with technology to aid it in its plans to deploy a series of spy satellites, as well as conventional weapons such as tanks and aircraft, according to Bloomberg.

Before making the strategic partnership public, Putin stated it was a new fundamental document which will lay the foundation for our relations for a long-term perspective. Artyom Luki, an analyst at the Far Eastern Federal University quoted by Reuters, said that, depending on the literal text of the pact, which was not immediately made public, the agreement could signal a profound change in the strategic situation in Northeast Asia.

After the signing of the new agreement, the two leaders went for a spin in a limousine produced the Russian luxury brand Aurus, with Putin at the wheel and Kim as passenger. The Russian president recently gifted the North Korean leader one of these vehicles.

Before landing in Pyongyang, Putin said that he intends to create with his neighboring country a system of exchanges of his own with which to circumvent the increasingly suffocating knot of sanctions. Putins proposal is to develop alternative trade and mutual settlements mechanisms not controlled by the West, jointly oppose illegitimate unilateral restrictions, and shape the architecture of equal and indivisible security in Eurasia, he wrote Tuesday in an article published by the North Korean state press.

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Bizarre scenes from Putin's North Korea visit should be taken as warning  UK Defence Secretary

UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps believes that Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin's visit to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) may be a warning.

Source: Shapps on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda

Details: Shapps called the scenes from Putin's visit to North Korea "bizarre" and warned that they should be taken as a warning.

"A new axis of tyranny is working to undermine our freedoms. Only by strengthening our Armed Forces can we deter them," the minister said.

Upon Putin's arrival in North Korea, DPRK's ruler Kim Jong Un travelled with the Russian leader from the airport in a limousine in a huge motorcade through the streets of Pyongyang, where buildings were decorated with giant Russian flags and portraits of Putin.

Putin attended a lavish welcoming ceremony in the city's main square, where he and Kim saluted a guard of honour and walked down a red carpet.

The bizarre scenes from Putins North Korea visit should be taken as a warning.



A new axis of tyranny is working to undermine our freedoms.



Only by strengthening our Armed Forces can we deter them, but Labour wants to leave us defenceless as our enemies put us in their sights. https://t.co/dY6GuZS2UE  Rt Hon Grant Shapps (@grantshapps) June 19, 2024

The square was packed with thousands of spectators, including children with balloons and people wearing T-shirts with the red, white and blue colours of the Russian and North Korean flags.

Huge crowds lined the streets to greet Putin's motorcade. They chanted "Welcome, Putin", waving flowers and flags of North Korea and Russia.

Background:

Russian propaganda media reported that Kim Jong Un expressed "full support" for Russia's aggression in Ukraine during Putin's visit to the DPRK.

It was reported that the talks between Putin and Kim, with the participation of their delegations, lasted about an hour and a half. The two leaders signed a partnership agreement as a result.

Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years comes amid growing concerns over an agreement between the two countries to supply Moscow with weapons for its war against Ukraine.

South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik said that North Korea had sent containers to Russia that could hold almost 5 million artillery shells.

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As the nation recognizes Juneteenth this year, leading Black voices plan to use the holiday to call for widespread political changes and protections for Black Americans.

Its not lost on any of us in the fight for social justice that this Juneteenth comes at a time when every right weve won since the Civil War is under attack, the Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network, told The Hill.

Although President Biden declared Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021, advocates have spent the past two years warning that civil rights for Black Americans are being washed away in a concerted effort.

We are on the eve of the anniversary of the end of affirmative action, the Fearless Fund remains under legal attacks, and some Black politicians claim we were better off under Jim Crow, Sharpton said. Juneteenth is a commemoration of the end of slavery, but it must also serve as a continuation in our fight for freedom.

We should also spend this holiday rededicating ourselves to not only protecting the rights our ancestors marched and in some cases died for, but also advancing those rights and enshrining them into law, he added.

What is Juneteenth?

President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, declaring that all persons held as slaves within the rebellious states are, and henceforward shall be free.

But it took until June 19, 1865, for news of the emancipation to reach Galveston, Texas. When Union soldiers arrived to enforce the order, the day became known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day  or simply: Juneteenth.

Although the city of Galveston has celebrated Juneteenth since 1866, the push to make the day a federal holiday dates back more than 100 years.

But it wasnt until the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers in 2020 that recognition of Juneteenth began to spread, according to Frederick Knight, a professor of history at Morehouse College.

There was a sense that we need to, as a nation, have this racial reckoning, Knight said. With Bidens presidency, he in many ways fulfilled at least one of the promises of that summer of racial reckoning.

Advocates say now is the time to lean into the legacy of Juneteenth in order to push back on what appears to be a backlash to Black success.

Juneteenth for political change

Wisdom Cole, senior national director of advocacy for the NAACP, said that in many ways, the past four years have been a political success for Black Americans.

Cole points to the White Houses establishment of the first Office of Gun Violence Prevention late last year and the cancellation of billions of dollars in student loan debt.

Juneteenth, he said, is the time when these successes can be celebrated and used to combat limitations.

The impacts of Juneteenth and the impacts of freedom have to exist in our classrooms, exist in our boardrooms, exist in every single hall of power to ensure that theres opportunity for Black people to have access to that, Cole noted. Juneteenths legacy has to be more than just a day of rest. It has to be an opportunity for us to access the future that we so deserve here in America.

Earlier this month, a U.S. federal court of appeals blocked the Fearless Fund, a Black-owned venture capitalist firm, from awarding grants exclusively to Black women entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, education has come under the microscope as school districts have limited what aspects of Black history can be taught.

Despite polling from the Black Education Research Center at Teachers College at Columbia University last fall finding that a majority of voters want Black studies curriculum and the history of racism and slavery, and its legacy, taught in K-12 public schools, 44 states have introduced bills to restrict teaching critical race theory or limit how teachers can discuss racism and sexism, according to an Education Week analysis.

African American history programs in Floridas public schools are now required to teach students that Black people benefited from slavery because it taught them useful skills.

In 2022, a conservative Tennessee parent group sued local and state education leaders for curriculum that it said is replete with racial discrimination, age-inappropriate material that causes children guilt, anguish, and other forms of psychological harm, it discusses the United States as an irredeemably racist country, and is overall hyper-focused on racial indoctrination.

Its important for us to teach Black history because our culture continues to carry the community forward, Cole said. We are the culture in America; we are the trendsetters. We are the ones who are advocating not just for our communities, but for all communities.

Some, like the Biden-Harris reelection campaign, are using Juneteenth to encourage Black Americans to vote in the upcoming election.

Juneteenth this year will be recognized as one of three National Days of Action on Voting.

These days will focus on providing voters with the necessary information on how, where and when to vote, and will encourage students to register and cast their ballots. It also aims to counter voter-suppression tactics.

The campaigns tactics are unsurprising  both Biden and former President Trump are courting Black voters ahead of November.

Biden has been struggling in recent polls to match the historic support Democratic presidential candidates have won from the key party demographic, but he will have the help of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) this week.

We will be doing events all throughout our districts to uplift the work of freedom  freedom for students to learn our full history, the freedom for people to thrive economically, to start businesses, to own homes, to invest in their communities, the freedom to love who you love as we recognize Pride Month, and the freedom for women to continue to have the right to make their own health care choices over their body at a time when these freedoms are under assault and being eroded, CBC Chair Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev.) told The Hill.

We believe that its not only a time to honor the holiday of Juneteenth, but what it means and what it signifies and the fact that every generation has to continue to fight to protect our freedom, he added.

The CBC especially plans to highlight the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

What John R. Lewis really compels us to do every day is to protect our right to vote because that is the right by which every other right comes, Horsford said.

Voting rights have remained a top-of-mind concern for Black leaders since the 2020 election. This year, at least six states have enacted seven restrictive voting laws, making it harder for voters to cast their ballots, according to the Brennan Center for Justice. At least 291 restrictive bills have been considered in 40 states.

But the CBC also plans to use the week of Juneteenth to promote its Black Wealth Agenda.

Really, Black America wants the same thing as any other community  we want to thrive, Horsford said. We dont want to just survive, we want to thrive. This country was built on the backs of free labor of enslaved people, and Juneteenth is a recognition of the fact that they did earn their freedom, but that the systemic racism, discrimination, policies and institutions did not allow them to really live free.

So the freedom that they gained, in one way, was still denied in other ways, he continued. And so when we talk about generational wealth today, its because were trying to overcome those inequities that have existed in our country, sadly, for over 400 years.

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How a Black couple from the 1930s had a hand in Habitat for Humanitys 900th home

It started with $800 and a dream.

The year was 1936, Florida was under the rule of Jim Crow and Black people were barred from most schools, restaurants, theaters and pools.

But Chester and Corrine Gooden  sweethearts from Ocala  had come into some money and were wanting land of their own.

They bought 10 acres of citrus grove on the outskirts of Largo, then a new city in Pinellas County, and built a home, a business and, eventually, a community. The neighborhood, called Ridgecrest, bloomed.

This week, the Goodens legacy will serve a new generation as three families get keys to brand-new homes on the site of those original 10 acres.

The homes, built through Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco, mark a major milestone for the organization as it designates its 900th house in that region.

For the grandchildren of Chester and Corrine, its a chance to look back on their familys storied history.

And for the three families moving in  all born and raised in Pinellas  its the final stop on a long and treacherous quest for security in a county where the cost of living has soared.

A place to call home

Miriam Dodson-Evans has moved too many times to count. She cant remember the last time she had a bedroom to herself.

An early education teacher and home aide, Evans never made a lot of money. When she went into a diabetic coma in 2015, and a slew of other health problems followed, it became even harder to survive. She had to stop working, and Evans, her daughter and her grandson moved in with her mom in 2017.

Sometimes they share beds. Other nights, she sleeps on the couch.

Its not what I wanted for my family, Evans said. I wanted to give my daughter and my grandson a place that was theirs.

In 2022, Evans called Habitat for Humanity.

To qualify for Habitats homeownership program, families have to earn 30% to 80% of the areas median income. In Pinellas, thats about $47,000 for an individual and $70,000 for a family. Habitat homeowners are often people like teachers, city employees, home health aides and trade workers  those who typically make too much for government assistance but too little to qualify for a traditional loan.

Once accepted, applicants must complete 36 classes on topics like home maintenance, insurance and budgeting. They put in more than 300 hours of work for the organization, often helping with other Habitat homes.

At the end, families get to own a home with a 0% interest fixed-rate mortgage. Typical payments ring in between $850 and $1,200 a month for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house  about half the cost of renting a two-bedroom apartment in Pinellas right now  all while building generational wealth.

This is my chance, Evans thought.

When she got the go-ahead in April 2023, Evans drove to Ridgecrest to view the lot where construction on her home would soon begin.

As she pulled up, she felt a sense of familiarity.

Shed been here before.

The Corner

Shortly after the Goodens moved to Largo in the 1930s, they sold parcels of the land on the cheap to other Black families eager for homes of their own.

Their business became the heartbeat of a growing neighborhood  a grocery store on the end of the street, called The Corner, which housed a barbershop, cafe and ice cream parlor.

For decades, The Corner was a watering hole for the Ridgecrest community. It was a place to get your first job, to hang out and chat and smoke after work, to lean on neighbors when you needed it. Corrine Gooden was known to let families open tabs, taking what food they needed and paying her back when they could.

It was behind the stores register that Elizabeth Helm-Frazier, then Elizabeth Helm, learned to count as a child in the 1960s.

The eldest granddaughter of the Goodens, Helm loved working with her grandmother, the bookkeeper and quick-witted businessperson who kept the train on its tracks. She treasured hours alongside her grandfather, a calm presence who brought balance and reason on difficult days.

When Helm turned 20, she left Largo to join the Army, and as her grandparents grew older, The Corner eventually closed.

Corrine and Chester Gooden lived in Ridgecrest, on that land, until their deaths  Corrine in 1992 and Chester in 2001.

In 2003, the road out front the store, then Baskin Crossing, was renamed Gooden Crossing in their honor.

Helm had always dreamed of returning and building three houses for herself and her siblings on the 10 acres where her grandparents had lived. But life had other plans.

In 2019, she got a call from Mike Sutton, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco. The organization had already completed around 100 homes in the greater Ridgecrest area. Her familys 10 acres could make room for three more.

At first, Helm said no. It was hard to part with her history.

But as she and her siblings considered the mission of their grandparents, she was swayed.

My grandparents believed in community, Helm said. Its an honor to know that three families will get to build generational wealth and be proud to call Ridgecrest their home. "

Keeping the legacy alive

When Evans arrived at her soon-to-be home for the first time last year, memories of The Corner rushed in.

She hadnt lived in Ridgecrest, but as a little girl, she sang in the church choir and would travel to perform at different Baptist churches in the area. One, St. Marys Missionary Baptist Church, sat behind the store.

I just thought, Wow, Evans said. I remembered The Corner, because everyone used to hang out there from the time they got off work to the time they went to bed.

She remembered Chester Gooden, too.

What she didnt remember was the lands legacy.

And when I started reading about its history, I was just amazed, Evans said. It means a lot to me. That Black people had a hand in this. In wealth. Its like Im part of the family now, and this history.

Evans said she has memories of Corner Days, occasional events that, like a block party, brought everyone in the neighborhood together.

Now shes planning to revive the tradition once a month.

Recently, Evans said shes gotten to know the other young Black families moving in.

Xavier Jones, 35, who will live next door to Evans, is a single dad of three and a pest control spray technician for Pinellas County, priced out of housing.

Ashley and Micah Poole, middle school sweethearts in their 30s with four young kids, can relate. With rising housing costs, its been difficult to get by on their combined salaries as a birth doula and third grade teacher. Owning a home, they said, will bring peace of mind and give their children a place to inherit down the line. The lands history, they said, makes the move all the more sweet.
Veterans from Georgia and around the country will visit the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery during the Juneteenth holiday. (Courtesy Honor Flight Network)

This Juneteeth, retired U.S. Air Force Captain Marian Dee Elder and 25 of her fellow Black veterans will board a plane in Atlanta and fly to Washington D.C.

There, this group will spend the day visiting various commemorative sites. They will share stories, shed tears and strengthen bonds forged by their unique experiences and challenges as Black servicemen and women.

Elder recalls that she faced discrimination and closed doors as a Black woman in the military. it was more difficult for Black soldiers to get promotions or selective duty stations, she said. Elder said she believes that racial discrimination has lessened since her enlistment, but she knows that there is a significant history of downplaying Black veterans contributions.

This opportunity to go on this Juneteenth flight is just a way of, to me, a recognition that African Americans are important, did play a significant role in the military and its about time we got recognized, Elder said.

Dee Elder

In Washington, D.C., these Veterans will visit the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. When they return to Georgia Wednesday evening, the group will continue to celebrate Juneteenth and one another as they wrap up the inaugural Juneteenth Honor Flight.

Historically, Black veterans are some of the least recognized soldiers in American military history. African Americans have fought alongside white soldiers dating back to the American Revolution, throughout the World Wars and in conflicts overseas since then. Despite their equal service and sacrifice, for decades Americas Black veterans received a sliver of the recognition and celebration that white veterans did.

The Juneteenth tribute put together by the Honor Flight Network is a celebration tailor-made for veterans. Since 2005, the Honor Flight Network has provided veterans with all-expenses-paid round-trip flights to the United States capital, where they spend the day touring memorials.

This experience gives veterans from across Georgia are included in the chance to meet one another and memorialize history. The new Juneteenth Honor Flight is particularly special because Black veterans share a unique past that outsiders white veterans cannot fully comprehend.

John McCaskill, Honor Flight Network board member and historian, attests to the unique effect the flights have had on so many veterans.

It is what Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes called the incommunicable experience of war, said McCaskill. Unless youve experienced combat, you wouldnt understand, and it wouldnt do any good for [veterans] trying to explain it. They couldnt explain it in a language that you could understand. But when they are around each other, it allows them to release some things and to heal from some things.

Elder, or Captain Dee as she was called, began service in the Army in 1973 and went on to serve in the Navy before retiring from the Air Force in 1996. Elder primarily served delivering health care, beginning with driving ambulances and giving physical exams and then getting an associates degree in nursing to serve in the Navy and Air Force. She went on to become a flight nurse and retired as a captain.

Elder found out about the Juneteenth Honor Flight by word of mouth at a Veterans Affairs medical center and found herself especially interested in this special Juneteenth trip.

Juneteenth, the holiday, is an important holiday for all African Americans, said Elder. Thats emancipation. So that was a sign of freedom, and as a veteran, I fought for our freedom while I was in the service during wartime. So its important that I can be a part  its like Im making history.

Juneteenth, a federal holiday since 2021, is an annual commemoration of the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.

On January 1, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation took effect, freeing all enslaved people in the Confederate states. But the freedom didnt spread to territory still controlled by Confederates. In Texas, freedom wasnt realized until much later.

On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, and the army announced more than 200,000 enslaved people were freed, hence the celebration of the day as Juneteenth. In 2021, Congress designated June 19 as a federal holiday.

Georgians across the state celebrate this holiday in a variety of ways throughout the whole week. From the Taste of Juneteenth festival in Dublin last Saturday, the day-of Juneteenth Augusta Festival all the way to Savannahs Juneteenth Fine Arts Festival next Saturday, Georgians are memorializing and celebrating.

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FILE PHOTO: Members of the media take footage of a Chinese Coast Guard vessel blocking a Philippine Coast Guard vessel on its way to a resupply mission at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea

By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday held a call with Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo to discuss China's actions in the South China Sea, which Manila and Washington have called escalatory.

WHY IT IS IMPORTANT

Britain, Canada and the United States have condemned China's actions, which occurred as Beijing's new coast guard rules allowing it to detain trespassers without trial took effect on June 15.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, which includes the Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines maintains a warship, Sierra Madre, beached in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims, with a small crew.

Relations between Manila and Beijing have soured under Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, with Manila pivoting back towards the United States which supports the Southeast Asian nation in its maritime disputes with China.

Washington's own ties with Beijing have been tense for years over issues like Taiwan, trade tariffs, the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, technology disputes and intellectual property, among others.

KEY QUOTES

Blinken and Manalo's discussion "followed (China's) dangerous and irresponsible actions to deny the Philippines from executing a lawful maritime operation in the South China Sea on June 17," the State Department said in a statement after the call.

Blinken emphasized that China's actions "undermine regional peace and stability and underscored the United States' ironclad commitments to the Philippines under our Mutual Defense Treaty," the State Department said.

CONTEXT

A Philippine sailor suffered serious injury after what its military described as "intentional-high speed ramming" by the Chinese Coast Guard, aiming to disrupt a routine resupply mission on June 17. The Philippine military also said the incident damaged Manila's vessels.

China's Coast Guard disputed that, saying Manila's vessel deliberately and dangerously approached a Chinese ship in an unprofessional manner, forcing it to take control measures, including "boarding inspections and forced evictions".

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh; Editing by Sandra Maler)
NEW YORK  The leader of a Black Lives Matter group in the city accused Mayor Eric Adams on Wednesday of blocking an annual Juneteenth celebration thrown by the organization in a South Bronx park.

But Hawk Newsome of Black Lives Matter of Great New York vowed Wednesday morning to go ahead with the event at Joyce Kilmer Park anyway despite the lack of a permit and the fact cops are already on scene.

At 1 p.m. were unloading the trucks, Newsome told the Daily News. They (the police) sent six to eight cars out here this morning. We had put up fliers asking people to move their cars to make room for our trucks. The people moved their cars. The cops are telling people to please park. They are saying we cant unload our trucks, well get arrested.

Newsome said he had rented five bouncy houses, a water slide, a dunk tank, a cotton candy tent, a U-Haul full of food.

I have 2,000 burgers and 2,000 hot dogs and drinks and they wont let me feed the people, he added.

But Adams countered that Newsome didnt apply for the permit until Monday or Tuesday and that it was denied by the local NYPD precinct commander. The park is located in the 44th Precinct and the commander is listed as Deputy Inspector Anthony Mascia.

He wanted me to overrule the commander, and I said, No, were not going to do that, you have to follow the rules,' the mayor said at an unrelated event in Brooklyn.

Adams said Newsome made a similar last-minute request in 2023. Last year, he did the same thing, and we said, Listen, you cant do it again,' Adams continued. We have to get resources there, we have to make sure the streets are closed properly.

Newsome disputed Adams timeline and shared a screengrab with The News showing his application was submitted Sunday. He also said he never heard from any precinct commander. It came straight from the mayors office, Newsome said.

Adams spokeswoman Amaris Cockfield wouldnt comment on the discrepancy, but said the exact timing of Newsomes application ultimately did not matter as event permits are supposed to submitted at least 60 days in advance.

The permit was not granted because the NYPD was unable to request the required resources to properly facilitate the event in this short amount of time, she said. We have repeatedly tried to explain the permitting process and work with Mr. Newsome, but over and over again, he has refused to submit applications on time or follow the process that other New Yorkers go through.

Around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, roughly eight cops posted at Joyce Kilmer Park turned away a truck containing the dunk tank mentioned by Newsome, a News photographer observed.

In his earlier interview with The News, Newsome claimed he was assured by two city officials he would receive the permit though his application came in late. But he said he received an 11th hour call about 6:40 p.m. Tuesday from Ingrid Lewis-Martin, Adams chief adviser, who told him the mayor ordered the permit for the event denied.

I went out of my way to do everything I could in my power and it didnt work, Lewis-Martin told Newsome, based on an excerpt of a recording of the call reviewed by The News. I am telling you that I have done everything that I can do. I am telling you that it comes from the mayor directly.

Later in the conversation, Newsome said, I did what you told me to do and now Im being punished?

Ok I wasnt there of course. Im just telling you what was said.to me by the mayor, Lewis-Martin replied. I had everything going and they said the reason why they denied it was because it came from the top. Theres nothing I can do. Literally. There is absolutely nothing I can do.

Newsome, a longtime and often controversial activist, was arrested on May 16 at Supreme Court in the Bronx during a heated exchange with a court officer. Newsome allegedly called the court officer a vagina and threatened to physically assault him.

The incident took place during the trial of a police officer on manslaughter charges for throwing a cooler at an arrest suspect and killing him in August 2023.

Newsome was given a disorderly conduct summons, court records show. It was not immediately clear if the case is still pending.

The Joyce Kilmer Park event was in its fifth year before the dispute began. It usually attracts several hundred people. In 2021, mayoral candidates Maya Wiley and Raymond McGuire attended.

This year, They told me to change categories in the city system, they told me to remove certain things. They told me to jump through a series of hoops, Newsome said. I was assured by two people that it was approved.

Juneteenth is a federal and state holiday commemorating the date slaves in Texas were officially freed in 1865 two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, according to the National Museum of African American Heritage and Culture at the Smithsonian.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  On June 18, 1541, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his men became the first Europeans to set foot on the land that is now Arkansas.

There are four known accounts of the expedition written by the survivors of de Sotos crew. These accounts are biased towards de Soto, but still paint a vivid picture of the expedition and of de Soto himself.

In May, 1539, de Soto and about 600 men departed from the ports of Cuba. The crew landed off of the southwest coast of Florida, then traveled through the Southeast.

Journey through Florida and Southeast

King Charles V of Spain and de Soto agreed on a contract for the expedition, which stipulated that De Soto would traverse the area, establish settlements and forts and conquer Florida. The members of the expedition expected to find gold and riches in the Southeast.

Relations between Native Americans and de Sotos men were unfriendly, ruthless, and violent. De Sotos primary goal was gaining riches, land, and power. He had no issue torturing and killing those who showed reluctance to cooperation. De Soto would take some Native Americans as prisoners, and torture or kill others.

US acknowledges Northwest dams have devastated the regions Native tribes

The crew endured a multitude of battles against the Native Americans. Tribes such as the Apalachee, Aquixo, Casqui, Pacaha, and Tula were encountered often.

Apalachee encounter

According to one of the accounts, while marching through Floridas swamps, they crossed the Withlacoochee, Suwannee, and the Aucilla rivers. One of their Native Americans prisoners informed de Soto that the Apalachee town, Anaica was close.

Then, de Soto and his men, galloped their horses across the intervening two leagues, lancing every Indian encountered on both sides of the road. The crew remained in Anaica, set up camp, then indulged in food they stole from the Native Americans.

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Circa 1540, Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto and his men torture and maim the Native Americans they encounter during their search for treasure in old Florida. Original Artwork: Engraved by Theodore de Bry. (Photo by MPI/Getty Images)

The Apalachee retaliated and set the Spanish camp ablaze twice. They killed members of the crew that were running away from the flames. Nearly 20 members of de Sotos crew died in the battle.

Discovery of Arkansas and death

Eventually, the crew moved west through Northern Georgia and Tennessee, crossed the Mississippi river, then arrived in modern-day Arkansas. De Soto was also one of the first Europeans to discover and cross the Mississippi.

De Soto convinced the Native Americans that he was an immortal Sun of the Sun. Present-day native Americans in Arkansas and other southern states view de Soto as a murderer, not a hero.

After exploring the state for a year, de Soto led his men back to the Mississippi river valley.

By then, de Soto lost nearly half of his 600 men. Disappointed, he returned to Mexico a week later and fell ill. De Soto died at a place that some scholars believed to be modern-day Lake Village.

In terms of de Sotos contract with the King of Spain, his expedition was a massive failure.

According to Dr. Milanich and Charles Hudson, professors of anthropology at the University of Georgia, They never found any great wealth. If there had been gold in the Southeast, the Spanish would have made a bigger effort to settle, and surely, wed be speaking Spanish today.

Man wanted for 4 murders across 2 states

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What do you do, at age 11, after raising more than enough money to wipe out your schools lunch debt?

If youre Daken Kramer, who just graduated from Thomas Ultican Elementary School in Blue Springs, Missouri, you encourage other kids to do the same, but also raise questions about why only eight states provide universal free lunch. Missouri is not among them, and neither is Kansas.

Parents and kids shouldnt have to worry about having school lunch debt, Daken told me. School lunch debt is just ridiculous. Amen, young sir.

Keeping school kids from going hungry should not be up to other school kids, but Daken saw the need and did something about it, which is more than Missouri officialdom can say.

I first wrote about this issue in 2017, after the Harrisonville School District made news for making kids whose parents couldnt pay go to the end of the school lunch line. Then these junior scofflaws, who should have known better than to have been born into families that couldnt always afford lunch, were fed a sunflower seed butter and jelly or cheese sandwich. In some school districts, kids whose parents owe lunch debt are still being served stigma on white bread.

Blue Springs does not, Im glad to say, shame kids whose parents dont have the money for a meal. But the districts debt is over $200,000, and Missouri school lunch debt amounted to $43 million earlier this year. The national public school meal debt is $262 million a year, despite all of those students who are eligible for free or reduced-cost meals.

Daken became part of the solution this spring, after he started thinking about his fifth grade graduation. Hed had some challenges in school and yet was able to overcome them, thanks to a couple of his teachers in particular, and I wanted to do something kind to say thank you. My teacher Mrs. Haley is really, really nice and a really good teacher. Mrs. Haley has proved she can do it all.

It was Kristi Haley, he said, who talked me into joining a group called I AM Noticed, which gets kids noticing and acknowledging others for doing the right thing, even in simple ways. For example, if somebody throws something in the trash and misses, but the person after him picks it up and throws it away, even though it wasnt his.

I like being in this group, Daken said, because I like noticing people who dont often get noticed. What a great way to go through life.

When Daken and his mom, Vanessa Kramer, who runs an in-home day care center, were brainstorming what he might do to say thank you, she mentioned that when shed been in school in Independence, I had to have peanut butter and jelly if my mom owed lunch debt. I know from experience how hard that is. I was eating peanut butter and jelly in high school, and thats not enough food.

After his mom explained the food insecurity that 1 in 5 kids in America experiences, Daken was as shocked as we all should be: I said, We have to do this. So he started knocking on doors in his neighborhood, and made a fundraising Facebook video that caught the attention of several local TV news reporters. As a result, he ended up raising $7,400. After paying off his schools $3,200 in debt, he gave the rest to pay down Blue Springs High Schools debt, and then the Arbys Foundation paid off the rest.

Dakens message to other kids is this: If youre someone like me who wants to do this, whats holding them back? They can definitely do it.

But he also said several times that adults should get involved, too, and sure they should.

Missouri Republican, Democrat proposed free school meals

Missouri state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Republican from Branson, has introduced a bill on providing universal free school meals, as has state Sen. Angela Mosley, a Democrat from St. Louis County. Neither piece of legislation went anywhere, unfortunately.

They all see that theres a need, Seitz told me, but to get them focused on that need is harder. What I ran into is, How do we pay for it? But whos getting squeezed? Its the lower middle class, just struggling to survive.

Kathy Saile, the director of No Kid Hungry in California, the first state to offer universal free school meals, says that yes, the biggest increase in those participating and also actually eating those meals have been those students whose parents earn just a little more than the federal eligibility threshold of $55,000 for a family of four for reduced-price meals, and $39,000 for free meals.

Thats where a lot of the school lunch debt occurs, she said. Kids in more affluent districts whose families dont fit that profile also miss out. And if we expect good educational outcomes, they need to eat.

Seitz will try again next session, he said, and hopes that a new speaker, floor leader and budget chair may be more positive on it. Thats something Id like to see happen in the state of Missouri, and something we can afford.

If we cared as much about kids as we claim to, would that even be a question?

Maybe next year, in all seriousness, Seitz should bring Daken Kramer to Jeff City to help him convince some of his fellow lawmakers.

Mrs. Haley, Dakens fifth grade teacher, has inspired him to want to become a teacher, too. Because, as his mom says, he wants to be able to help kids like him who might struggle a little bit with focusing and typical classroom learning styles. He said, I want to make learning fun for them so they dont give up on themselves. Mrs. Haley always respected us and treated us like we matter, and thats the kind of teacher I want to be.

Thank you, Mrs. Haley, thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Kramer, and thank you, Daken, for noticing both whats going right and what is not. Missouri lawmakers, please notice all that they have, too, and give them the support they deserve.
The political future of House Freedom Caucus Chair Bob Good is coming down to the final votes.

After a bitter primary battle with rival John McGuire in south-central Virginias 5th Congressional District, the vote count showed an exceedingly tight result Tuesday night, far closer than many expected. With each update to the results, Good and McGuire traded leads that at times were as low as single digits.



It was a surprisingly strong showing for Good  and a potential demonstration of the power of incumbency  given the array of Republican forces that had coalesced to take him out. McGuire was backed by allies of both former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and former President Donald Trump in a race that saw more than $14.5 million in ad spending.

McGuire, a Virginia state senator, was widely seen as having the upper hand heading into Election Day because of the support that flowed to him from across the GOPs many factions. But the electorate was clearly split, and by 9:30 p.m. it was the only congressional race in the state left to call.

With a small lead of just a few hundred votes, McGuire prematurely declared victory in a speech at his election party in Lynchburg shortly before midnight. But the race was too close to call and the Associated Press had not determined a winner by early Wednesday morning.

We need leaders that know how to put petty differences aside and bring people together for a better future, McGuire said. And that's what I'm all about.



Good thanked his supporters on X and noted that not all votes had yet been counted.

[W]e are still waiting for the results of mail-in ballots and provisional ballots, Good wrote. We are doing what we can to ensure we have teams of observers and legal counsel to ensure all the votes are properly counted in the coming days.

The primary battle had exposed deep divisions in the House GOP and the MAGA movement  and the fault lines centered around personal beefs and petty arguments, not diverging ideologies. Several House Republicans endorsed McGuire, calling Good an inconsiderate colleague, and even a member of Goods typically rigidly unified House Freedom Caucus opposed him. Most notably, McCarthys allies sought revenge on Good for voting to depose the former speaker, and Trump endorsed McGuire after Good initially backed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in the presidential primary.

The fact that such a strong anti-Good coalition could not decisively take him out belies the central problem for the House GOP establishment.

Mainstream GOP groups and donors have plowed millions of dollars into a broad campaign to mold a more functional conference. That includes excising members like Good who have caused chaos, protecting pragmatic incumbents and intervening in open races for preferred candidates. They have had some successes so far, but it's taken a massive amount of time, effort and money.

And any one individual loss could yield a member that could single-handedly derail a future or current House Republican majority.

As Republicans from across the party watched the results Tuesday night, both campaigns scrambled to figure out their response. At their respective watch parties, groups of supporters mingled while refreshing election results and discussing the possible outcomes.

At one point in the night, Good and a group of his supporters joined together in prayer. Just as they said, Amen, a batch of results rolled in from Lynchburg, home of Liberty University, that briefly put Good ever so slightly ahead.

That prompted cheers that could be heard outside the room, Good campaign spokesman Rafaello Carone said.

The final result could take weeks to determine.

It will take days to count all the remaining votes, and then the race is very likely heading to a recount. If the difference between the two candidates is less than 1 percent in Virginia, the trailing candidate can request a recount. And if the margin is less than 0.5 percent  where it was just after midnight Wednesday  the state would shoulder the cost, making it a virtual certainty that the losing candidate would request a recount.

Generally, the Associated Press  which POLITICO and other media outlets rely on to declare winners  does not call a race that could head to a recount.

Adding to the uncertainty: There is an unknown number of outstanding mail ballots. In Virginia, ballots that are postmarked by Election Day but received by election officials by noon on Friday are still counted. That number is likely very small in this contest, given Republicans' general disposition to not vote by mail. But if there is a razor-thin margin, every single ballot matters.

If there is a tie, the winner will be drawn at random, which happened in a 2017 legislative race.

Whatever the ultimate outcome, it is certain to reverberate across the House GOP as Goods colleagues anxiously wait to see whether the bomb-throwing lawmaker will be further emboldened to cause turmoil in the House in the final months before the fall election.

Zach Montellaro contributed to this article.
The United States has not released 8,000 crocodiles into the Rio Grande to prevent migrants from crossing, nor has the pyramid of the Louvre Museum in Paris been set on fire. Nor has a giant octopus been found on a beach, and the whereabouts of Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster remain a mystery. All this misinformation arose from images generated with artificial intelligence. While tech companies such as Google, Meta and OpenAI are trying to detect AI-created content and create tamper-resistant watermarks, users face a difficult challenge: that of discerning whether images circulating on social networks are real or not. While it is sometimes possible to determine with the naked eye, there are tools that can help in more complex cases.

Generating images with artificial intelligence is becoming easier and easier. Today anyone, without any technical skills, can type a sentence into a platform like DALL-E, Firefly, Midjourney or another message-based model and create a hyper-realistic piece of digital content, says Jeffrey McGregor, CEO of Truepic, one of the founding companies of the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA). Some services are free and others dont even require an account.

AI can create incredibly realistic images of people or events that never took place, says Neal Krawetz, founder of Hacker Factor Solutions and FotoForensics, a tool to verify whether an image may have been manipulated. In 2023, for example, an image of Pope Francis wearing a Balenciaga feather coat and others of former U.S. president Donald Trump fleeing from the police to avoid arrest went viral. Krawetz stresses that such images can be used to influence opinions, damage someones reputation, create misinformation, and provide false context around real situations. In this way, they can erode trust in otherwise reliable sources.

AI tools can also be used to falsely depict people in sexually compromising positions, committing crimes, or in the company of criminals, as V.S. Subrahmanian, a professor of computer science at Northwestern University, points out. Last year dozens of minors in Extremadura, Spain, reported that fake nude photos of themselves created by AI were circulating. These images can be used to extort, blackmail, and destroy the lives of leaders and ordinary citizens, Subrahmanian says.

AI-generated images can also pose a serious threat to national security: They can be used to divide a countrys population by pitting one ethnic, religious, or racial group against another, which could lead in the long run to riots and political upheaval. Josep Albors, director of research and awareness at Spanish IT security company ESET, explains that many hoaxes rely on these types of images to generate controversy and stir up reactions. In an election year in many countries, this can tip the balance to one side or the other, he says.

Actor Tom Hanks in an AI-generated image, wearing shirts in favor of and against Donald Trump's re-election.

Tips for detecting AI-generated images

Experts like Albors advise being suspicious of everything in the online world. We have to learn to live with the fact that this exists, that AI generates parallel realities, and just keep that in mind when we receive content or see something on social networks, says Tamoa Calzadilla, editor-in-chief of Factchequeado, an initiative by Maldita.es and Chequeado to combat Spanish-language disinformation in the United States. Knowing that an image may have been generated by AI is a big step toward not being misled and sharing disinformation.

Some images of this type are easy to detect just by looking at details of the hands, eyes, or faces of the people in them, according to Jonathan Pulla, a fact-checker at Factchequeado. This was the case with an AI-created image of U.S. President Joe Biden wearing a military uniform: You can tell by the different skin tones on his face, the phone wires that go nowhere, and the disproportionately sized forehead of one of the soldiers in the image.

He also gives as an example manipulated images of actor Tom Hanks wearing T-shirts bearing slogans for or against Donald Trumps re-election. That [Hanks] is in the same pose and only the text on the T-shirt changes, that his skin is very smooth and his nose irregular, indicate that they may have been created with digital tools, such as artificial intelligence, Maldita.es verifiers say about these images, which went viral in early 2024.

Many AI-generated images can be identified at a glance by a trained user, especially those created with free tools, according to Albors: If we look at the colors, we will often notice that they are not natural, that everything looks like plasticine and that some components of these images even blend together, such as the hair on the face, or various garments with each other. If the image is of a person, the expert also suggests looking to see if there is anything anomalous about their limbs.

Although the first-generation imagers made simple mistakes, they have improved significantly over time. Subrahmanian points out that in the past they often depicted people with six fingers and unnatural shadows. They also rendered street and store signs incorrectly, making absurd spelling mistakes. Today, technology has largely overcome these deficiencies, he says.

The results of the Hive Moderation tool after examining the image of crocodiles allegedly released by the United States. Factchequeado / Maldita.es.

Tools to identify fake images

The problem is that now an AI-generated image is already virtually indistinguishable from a real one for many people, as Albors points out. There are tools that can help identify such images, such as AI or NOT, Sensity, FotoForensics, or Hive Moderation. OpenAI is also creating its own tool to detect content created by its image generator, DALL-E, as announced on May 7 in a press release. In the area of audio deepfakes, the VerificAudio program helps identify synthetic voices.

Such tools, according to Pulla, are useful as a complement to observation, as sometimes they are not very accurate or do not detect some AI-generated images. Factcheckers often turn to Hive Moderation and FotoForensics. Both can be used for free and work in a similar way: the user uploads a photo and requests that it be examined. While Hive Moderation provides a percentage of how likely the content is to have been generated by AI, the results of FotoForensics are more difficult to interpret for someone without prior knowledge.

When uploading the image of the crocodiles that have supposedly been sent by the U.S. to the Rio Grande, the Pope in the Balenciaga coat, or one of a satanic McDonalds happy meal, Hive Moderation gives a 99.9% chance that they were AI-generated. However, with the manipulated photo of Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, it indicates that the probability is 0%. In this case, Pulla found Fotoforensics and Invid  which can show certain altered details in an image that are not visible  useful.

But why is it so difficult to determine if an image has been generated with artificial intelligence? The main limitation of such tools, according to Subrahmanian, is that they lack context and prior knowledge. Humans use their common sense all the time to separate real claims from false ones, but machine learning algorithms for deepfake image detection have made little progress in this regard, he says. The expert believes that it will become increasingly unlikely to know with 100% certainty whether a photo is real or AI-generated.

Even if a detection tool were accurate 99% of the time in determining whether content was AI-generated or not, that 1% gap on the scale of the Internet is huge. In one year alone, AI generated 15 billion images, says a report in Everypixel Journal, which notes that AI has already created as many images as photographers have taken in 150 years. When all it takes is one convincingly fabricated image to degrade confidence, 150 million undetected images is a pretty disturbing number, McGregor says.

Aside from manipulated pixels, McGregor stresses that it is also nearly impossible to identify whether an images metadata  the time, date and location  is accurate after its creation. The expert believes that the provenance of digital content, which uses cryptography to mark images, will be the best way for users to identify in the future which images are original and have not been modified. His company, Truepic, claims to have launched the worlds first transparent deepfake with these markings, with information about their origin.

Until these systems are widely implemented, it is essential that users adopt a critical stance. A guide produced by Factchequeado, with support from the Reynolds Journalism Institute, lists 17 tools to combat disinformation. Among them are several to verify photos and videos. The key, according to Calzadilla, is to be aware that none of them is infallible nor 100% reliable. Therefore, to detect whether an image has been generated with AI, no single tool is enough: Verification is carried out through various techniques: observation, the use of tools, and classic journalism techniques. That is, contacting the original source, checking their social networks, and verifying whether the information attributed to them is true.

An image examined by Truepic, with information about its origin. Truepic.

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Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on SC Daily Gazette.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik / Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on Source New Mexico.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Andrew Harnik | Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency, and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri, and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson, and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on New Hampshire Bulletin.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on North Dakota Monitor.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did, and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun returns to his seat after speaking directly to family members of those killed in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 and Lion Air Flight 610 crashes during his opening statement before a Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Investigations Subcommittee hearing on Boeings broken safety culture on Capitol Hill on June 18, 2024 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Boeing CEO David Calhoun on Tuesday apologized to the families of people who died in crashes in the manufacturers planes, while members of both parties on a U.S. Senate panel grilled the executive for failing on safety and transparency.

Calhoun appeared at a hearing of the Investigations Subcommittee of the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee to discuss recent failings of Boeing jets and the companys treatment of whistleblowers.

Democrats and Republicans on the panel said Calhoun was more concerned about the companys profits than its safety record.

Boeing needs to stop thinking about the next earning call and start thinking about the next generation, subcommittee Chair Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, said in an opening statement.

Missouri Republican Sen. Josh Hawley was among the sharpest questioners of Calhoun, starting off with a question about the CEOs compensation, which is nearly $33 million per year.

Mr. Calhoun, youre not focused on safety, Hawley said. Youre not focused on quality. Youre not focused on transparency.

I think actually, youre focused on exactly what you were hired to do, which is that youre cutting corners, Hawley continued. You are eliminating safety procedures. You are sticking it to your employees. You are cutting back jobs because youre trying to squeeze every piece of profit you can out of this company. Youre strip-mining it. Youre strip-mining what was one of the greatest American companies ever.

Calhoun should resign, Hawley said.

Calhoun is leaving the company at the end of the year.

Apology to families

Shortly after Blumenthal introduced him, Calhoun stood and turned to face spectators in the hearing room. His audience included the families of passengers who died on Lion Air Flight 610 in Indonesia in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019.

Both crashes were caused by software issues on Boeings then-new 737 MAX aircraft.

I would like to apologize on behalf of all of our Boeing associates spread throughout the world, past and present, for your losses, Calhoun told the families.

Theyre gut-wrenching. And I apologize for the grief that we have caused. And I want you to know we are totally committed, in their memory, to work and focus on safety for as long as were employed by Boeing.

Calhoun, who took over as Boeings chief executive in January 2020 after former CEO Dennis Muilenburg was fired following the two MAX crashes, largely accepted responsibility on behalf of the company for those crashes and a January 2024 episode that saw a door come off of a plane during an Alaska Airlines flight taking off from Portland, Oregon.

Calhoun said the aviation industry depends on accountability, transparency and continuous learning. The company must have a perfect record and cannot allow a single flawed airplane to leave its factory, he said.

Perfection is what our job is, he said. And it has to be absolute.

Boeing is headquartered in Virginia, but has manufacturing facilities across the country, including in Washington state, where it was founded, Missouri and South Carolina.

Culture still an issue

Calhoun was deferential throughout the hearing, largely accepting lawmakers criticism of his management, and pledged improvement.

But several members of the panel said his words were not enough.

Four years after taking over, Calhoun had not fixed a failing safety culture, New Hampshire Democrat Maggie Hassan said.

You talk about safety and culture, but you arent answering the question about what the root causes are here, Hassan said. How do you make sure that safety and quality are your product as opposed to your words?

While accepting responsibility for the Alaska Airlines incident, Calhoun answered that the safety record in general was positive, with 2023 the safest year on record for aviation travel.

Whistleblower retaliation

Also in the audience Tuesday were the mother and brother of John Barnett, a former Boeing engineer who was a whistleblower about safety issues at the company and died of suicide earlier this year.

Blumenthal described the immense pressure Barnett was under because he was helping investigate Boeing. Barnett received 19 calls from his manager one day and 21 the next, including a threat to break him, according to Blumenthal.

The committee has heard from more than a dozen whistleblowers from Boeings workforce, Blumenthal said. They routinely reported that raising concerns internally could result in intimidation, Blumenthal said.

The company has also been uncooperative with the subcommittee, Blumenthal said.

In response to requests for information, Boeing responded with pages of complete gobbledygook, which were impossible to read, Blumenthal said.

I would describe it precisely as you did and I cant justify it, Calhoun said. And I will definitely follow up.

Ranking Republican Ron Johnson asked Calhoun if he had investigated the companys incentive structure in response to reports from whistleblowers.

Its actually quite shocking to have a supervisor calling somebody up 19 times in one day, with the statement that Im going to break you, the Wisconsin Republican said. My guess is you dont condone that kind of behavior. Have you looked at your incentive system?

Calhoun answered that the company made significant changes to our incentive structure that really emphasizes all things safety.

Johnson then asked if the companys focus on diversity, equity and inclusion programs meant a tradeoff for quality performance.

Ive never seen those two things ever come into conflict, Calhoun said.

Possible DOJ action

The U.S. Justice Department is conducting its own investigation and may pursue a criminal prosecution, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal, a former federal prosecutor, said he thought there was enough evidence of wrongdoing to pursue a prosecution.

Blumenthal, Johnson and other members of the panel said lawmakers and the traveling public all wanted to see the aerospace manufacturing giant succeed. Boeing manufactures most of the airlines in commercial service in the U.S. and also has significant military contracts.

But the companys success would require a course correction, Blumenthal said.

A federal prosecution of those responsible for safety failures would be a good start, he added.

Im saying to you, and Im saying to the Department of Justice, individuals should be held accountable because thats the only way that deterrence works, Blumenthal said. Wouldnt you agree?

Yes, sir, Calhoun responded. I believe strongly in accountability.

The post Boeing CEO apologizes to families for aircraft safety failings appeared first on Washington State Standard.
People join arms during a reconciliation revival, part of an event to mark Juneteenth, in Minneapolis (Minnesota), on June 19, 2020. ERIC MILLER (Reuters)

Juneteenth was first recognized as a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. This historic event marked the first new federal holiday since the adoption of Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, specifically on June 19, 1865, when Major General Gordon Granger issued an order proclaiming freedom for slaves in Texas. Initially, Juneteenth was recognized only by certain communities, but it has since grown to become one of the most significant dates for Black Americans.

End of slavery

During the American Civil War, on September 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, a presidential proclamation and executive order that declared enslaved African Americans in Confederate states to be freed. The final Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863. It stated: I do order and declare that all persons held as slaves within said designated States [in rebellion against the U.S.], and parts of States, are, and henceforward shall be free The proclamation affected South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Virginia, Arkansas, and North Carolina.

The Proclamation declared that the executive branch, including the Army and Navy, will recognize and maintain the freedom of said persons. It applied to more than 3.5 million enslaved people in the country. Approximately 25,000 to 75,000 individuals were immediately emancipated in regions of the Confederacy where the U.S. Army was present.

However, the enforcement of the Proclamation was not immediate everywhere. Texas, the most remote state of the former Confederacy, had 250,000 slaves. Many planters and slaveholders had migrated to Texas to avoid the war and had brought their slaves with them. News of the Proclamation reached Texas after its issuance, and while many slaves knew about Lincolns order emancipating them, they were not freed since the Union army had not yet reached Texas to enforce the Proclamation.

On April 9, 1865, Confederate General-in-Chief Robert E. Lee surrendered, followed by the surrender of the western Confederate Army of the Trans-Mississippi on June 2. On June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived at the island of Galveston to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation with General Order No. 3, which freed all remaining slaves. He also oversaw Reconstruction after the war, nullifying all laws passed within the state during the war by Confederate lawmakers.

While it is widely believed that Granger or his troops proclaimed the ordinance by reading it aloud, historians suggest that copies of the Ordinance were more likely posted in public places, including the church attended by Black Americans. The Order read: The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.

A handwritten record showing General Orders, Number 3, issued by United States Major General Gordon Granger, June 19, 1865. Interim Archives (Getty Images)

The event has come to be celebrated as the end of slavery. However, emancipation for the remaining enslaved individuals in the Union border states of Delaware and Kentucky did not occur until December 18, 1865, with the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery and involuntary servitude.

Juneteenth as a holiday

In Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1866, one year after General Grangers arrival, the first annual commemoration known as Jubilee Day was organized. Other observances took place on January 1 (the day the Emancipation Declaration was issued) or January 4. Some of these early celebrations served as political rallies to provide freed African Americans with instructions for voting.

In 1867, Black leaders in Austin, Texas, raised funds to purchase 10 acres of land, now known as Houstons Emancipation Park, to celebrate the holiday. In subsequent years, the event drew thousands of attendees.

During the early 1890s, the Black community began using the word Juneteenth instead of Jubilee Day. The word derives its name from combining June and nineteenth. One of the earliest records of its use dates back to 1909 when The Current Issue, a Texas periodical, employed the term.

Members of the Dr. Huey P. Newton Foundation hold a ceremony on Juneteenth, to show support against racial inequality in the aftermath of the death in Minneapolis police custody of George Floyd, in Oakland (California), on 2020. KATE MUNSCH (Reuters)

Although most early celebrations occurred in Texas, Black Americans who had left the state continued to commemorate Juneteenth wherever they relocated. By the second half of the 20th century, most states had established Juneteenth celebrations. Texas was the first state to declare Juneteenth a state holiday in 1980. By the end of the century, only three states officially observed the day. Over the next two decades, it gained recognition as an official observance in all states, except South Dakota, until it became a federal holiday under the Biden administration.

Texan Opal Lee and other Black Americans campaigned for decades to establish Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Each year, Lee led 2.5-mile walks, symbolizing the 2.5 years it took for news of the Emancipation Proclamation to reach Texas (although the news had arrived, slaves werent freed until the Union took control of the state). During the bill signing ceremony that designated Juneteenth as a federal holiday, she was an honored guest and President Joe Biden knelt down on one knee to greet her.

Thanks to the holiday, federal government employees now have the day off every year on June 19. If the date falls on a Saturday or Sunday, they have the closest Friday or Monday off, respectively.

Juneteenth Celebrations in 2024

Americans across the country celebrate Juneteenth over the weekend with festivals, parades, cookouts and gatherings of friends or family. This relatively new holiday has become more widely recognized in various communities. However, some states such as Florida are attempting to prevent certain aspects of the history of the end of slavery from being taught in public schools.

In Memphis, where Juneteenth will also be recognized as a state holiday, local residents and visitors are participating in a multi-day festival that includes food, music, cultural exhibits and more. To commemorate the holiday, the National Civil Rights Museum, the site where the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, is offering free admission on Wednesday. For the first time since Juneteenth was federally recognized, the National Park Service will offer free admission to all parks during the holiday.

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Barry "Butch" Wilmore and Sunita Williams are spending twice as long as initially planned in space because of the faults - Joe Skipper/Reuters

Two US astronauts will be left on the International Space Station (ISS) for almost two weeks longer than planned because of faults with the Boeing spacecraft designed to return them to Earth.

Nasa said Barry Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams would not return to Earth on board the Boeing Starliner until June 26.

The vehicle has been plagued by helium leaks and thruster issues, in the latest setback to Boeings space programme which has been beset by delays and high costs.

The ISS mission was Boeings first crewed space launch after more than a decade of planning and two launches had been aborted at late notice.

Mr Wilmore and Ms Williams launched from Earth on June 5 and arrived on the ISS on June 6. They were meant to stay on the station for around seven days but their return to Earth had already been delayed until this week.

Five of the spacecrafts thrusters were shut down by its computers as it neared the space station and four had to be switched back on, while its propulsion system has suffered a number of minor leaks.

The latest delay means that the pair will be on the ISS for more than twice as long as originally planned before the craft returns to Earth. The craft will land in New Mexico using parachutes.

Boeing's Starliner spacecraft shut down five of its thrusters after its launch and prior to its successful docking with the ISS - Joe Skipper/Reuters

While the faults are not critical and problems often emerge while testing spacecraft, officials from Nasa and Boeing plan to analyse the vehicle over the coming days before starting preparations for the return journey.

The setback is the latest blow to Boeing amid a safety crisis over its 737 Max aeroplanes after a door blew off a flight over Oregon in January, which has led to new scrutiny from regulators.

On Tuesday David Calhoun, Boeings outgoing chief executive, was hounded at a US Senate hearing by families of those killed in two previous incidents in which 737 Max jets crashed. Mr Calhoun apologised for their losses but said he was proud of the companys safety record.

The ISS, which has a longer-term crew of four American and three Russian astronauts, has months worth of food supplies and the Starliner is able to remain docked for 45 days. If the astronauts return to Earth is delayed further they are likely to leave on July 2.

I think were taking our extra time, given that this is a crewed vehicle, and we want to make sure that we havent left any stone unturned, Nasas Steve Stich told a press conference.

So far, we dont see any scenario where Starliner is not going to be able to bring Butch and Suni home.

Boeings Starliner programme is meant to provide competition to Elon Musks SpaceX, which has been used to ferry astronauts to the ISS since 2020. Previously, Nasa had used Russian-made spacecraft.

The company has lost more than $1.5bn (1.2bn) on the project to date. It is due to complete six Nasa missions under a $5bn contract awarded in 2014.

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These new bombshell allegations from Boeing whistleblowers about what happens to faulty plane parts are pretty horrifying

These new bombshell allegations from Boeing whistleblowers about what happens to faulty plane parts are pretty horrifying

A new report from the Senate subcommittee contains fresh allegations from a Boeing whistleblower.

Sam Mohawk, a quality assurance investigator, says the 737 program lost track of hundreds of bad parts.

Boeing's CEO, however, said on Capitol Hill he remains "proud" of the company's safety record.

The Senate subcommittee investigating Boeing's safety and quality practices on Monday released a new report  and it contains new allegations from company whistleblowers about what happens to faulty plane parts.

The sprawling 204-page report contained several new allegations from whistleblowers familiar with the company's practices at its Washington facilities. The allegations "paint a troubling picture of a company that prioritizes speed of manufacturing and cutting costs over ensuring the quality and safety of aircraft," the subcommittee wrote.

A new slate of accusations came from Sam Mohawk, a Boeing quality assurance investigator in Renton, Washington.

Mohawk, per the committee's report, wrote a June 11 complaint to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration alleging that the 737 program was losing "hundreds" of "non-conforming" parts.

Mohawk further alleged that at the Renton factory, the company ordered staff to move "improperly stored" aircraft parts to "intentionally hide" them from FAA inspectors.

"There were approximately 60 parts being stored outdoors, including 42 rudders alone, plus flaps, winglets, ailerons, stabilizers, and vertical fins," Mohawk's OSHA complaint read.

"Since then, those parts that were hidden from the FAA inspection have been moved back to the outside area or lost completely," Mohawk added.

The Senate subcommittee also highlighted allegations from former Boeing quality manager Merle Meyers.

Meyers, a former Boeing quality manager, said staff at Boeing's manufacturing team regularly tried to retrieve bad parts from a "reclamation" area even after they were sent there for disposal.

Meyers further alleged that Boeing's manufacturing staff had forms that helped them justify moving parts from reclamation back into the production line.

"The example forms reviewed by the Subcommittee, some dating as far back as 2002, appeared to relate to a variety of small and large aircraft parts, including "787 leading edge slats", "landing gear fitting", "787 nacelle forgings", and "wire bundles," the subcommittee wrote.

The fresh slate of accusations from Boeing whistleblowers adds to the existing allegations against the company from other Boeing whistleblowers.

Notably, two Boeing whistleblowers died before the Senate subcommittee's report came out on Monday. Former Spirit AeroSystems employee Joshua Dean, 45, died in May after contracting a sudden illness. Dean had testified against Spirit in a shareholder lawsuit, and accused it of poor quality control when producing the Boeing 737-Max.

Another Boeing whistleblower John Barnett , 62, died in March, in the middle of his deposition against Boeing. The Charleston County coroner's office told BI in a statement that the former Boeing manager died from "what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound."

The Senate's new document did drop before Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun faced a Senate panel on Tuesday. Lawmakers grilled Calhoun on the series of high-profile safety incidents that have beleaguered the planemaker,

During his testimony, Calhoun said that he was "proud" of the company's safety record.

"I am proud of every action we've taken," Calhoun said during a tense exchange with Sen. Josh Hawley.

For its part, Boeing told BI that it's reviewing the whistleblowers' claims after receiving the document late on Monday evening.

"We continuously encourage employees to report all concerns as our priority is to ensure the safety of our airplanes and the flying public," a Boeing spokesperson said in a statement to BI.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Book on race was removed from SC classroom, but teacher taught it again. How she did it

Mary Wood didnt want to provoke another controversy like the one that led to calls for her to be fired at a school board meeting last year.

She was reluctant to reintroduce Ta-Nehisi Coates memoir, Between the World and Me, to her Advanced Placement language arts class because her previous lesson was so controversially shut down in the spring of 2023, pulled by administrators after the writers recounting of being Black in America had at least one student feeling ashamed to be Caucasian.

But despite concerns that teaching the book violated a state ban on teaching concepts related to critical race theory and the strong reaction against it from some members of her community, the Chapin High School teacher felt that she had to try to teach the book again.

Its a good book, and it didnt hurt anybody, she said in a recent interview with The State. A book cant hurt a community, even if people try to make it sound like its something nefarious.

This time, she would dot every i and cross every t. She made sure everything she did was lined up, approved and announced ahead of time. No parent or administrator would be able to say they didnt know exactly what she was planning to do.

Wood was committed to teach Between the World and Me not only because she thought it would be valuable for her students, but because she is concerned about the future of teaching.

The states prohibition on race-related topics remains in effect, and the state recently dropped an AP African-American studies course from the curriculum. Under S.C. Superintendent Ellen Weaver, elected in 2022, the Department of Education also has moved to centralize the approval of books that can be used in the classroom and potentially remove a challenged book from being used statewide.

Its no lie, its no secret that racism and inequality exist, Wood said. Why would you want to prevent the discussion? Its dangerous.

Last years controversy around Woods lesson plan brought national and international attention to the Chapin-area school district, when her lesson was stopped prematurely and copies of the book taken back after some students wrote to Lexington-Richland 5 school board members complaining that the lesson made them uncomfortable.

These videos portrayed an inaccurate description of life from past centuries that she is trying to resurface, one student said at the time. I understand in AP Lang, we are learning to develop an argument and have evidence to support it, yet this topic is too heavy to discuss.

Another wrote that I am pretty sure a teacher talking about systemic racism is illegal in South Carolina, referencing a state budget proviso that prohibited the teaching of various ideas related to race, including those broadly associated with critical race theory, an academic framework used in high-level university courses for studying how the development of laws and public policy contribute to racial inequity. In popular discourse, though, the term has come to be applied to most discussions of race or racism in K-12 schools.

Students at a SC high school expressed discomfort with discussing race and equity, including Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates.

I dont belong

The aftermath of the controversy was hard for Wood, a Chapin native whose father was principal of the high school where she now teaches.

Some parents pulled their kids from my classes, Wood said. It was not well-received by a lot of people. I had people tell me I dont belong in Chapin, which is a weird thing to hear when youre from here.

But as her case received public attention, she also received an outpouring of support from people as far away as Alaska, Canada and France. Invitations to speak about her experience rolled in. She learned that many people supported her in an educational fight that, she worried, many teachers arent willing to talk about publicly.

There are so many who are afraid to speak up, she said. I want to shed light on things for folks who are not aware.

At the end of the 2022-23 school year, Wood wasnt sure if she wanted to return to the classroom for another year. By the time summer break was over, she had made a different decision: She needed to teach Coates book again.

She spoke to an attorney, got the guidance of her new principal, Ed Davis, and discussed the districts policies and procedures with her department chair and friend Tess Pratt, including making a plan to teach counterexamples that would challenge Coates conclusions.

I followed expectations, I planned it out, I shared it in the syllabus before the semester began. And I gave students a chance to opt out, and complete a different assignment instead, she said, and none did.

SC teachers racism lesson was shut down by book ban. But shes still talking about it

The lesson plan did receive one complaint from a parent after she had started teaching the spring semester, Wood said, and I had to fight for three weeks to keep teaching it, because I had done all I was supposed to do.

In a statement, Lexington-Richland 5 Superintendent Akil Ross said controversial material is used in AP courses for discussion purposes, as long as it is presented in a balanced manner.

The book Between the World and Me has not been banned in our district, Ross said. Supplemental materials, including this book, may be used in a classroom setting if they are based on the content standards ... (which) ensures that ultimately the teacher will not attempt, directly or indirectly, to limit or control students judgment concerning any issue.

Start to doubt

Even if she felt she was in the clear legally with her lesson plan, the memory of last years class, and the complaints it had generated, made Wood feel inhibited in what she could say.

Its hard to discuss an interpretation, because you dont know if youre being recorded or its going to be taken out of context, she said. It kind of flattened discussion in the class, because I didnt want someone to say, She said this, shes indoctrinating us.

The point of the class is to prepare students who will soon be headed to college for how to engage with new and different perspectives and beliefs they dont necessarily agree with. But Wood said she felt the classroom discussion wasnt able to do that if she felt she couldnt share those differing perspectives.

Mary Wood, a teacher at Chapin High School, shows her signed copy of Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates on Thursday, November 16, 2023. Wood used the book in a lesson about argumentative writing, and was stopped by the school district.

I would have been more bold, Wood says now. But when her lesson plan received so much pushback from people who not only disagreed with it, but also believe shes fundamentally biased, was breaking the law and should lose her job, you can start to doubt yourself, and it seeps into your life, she said.

Coming into this school year and her second shot at the lesson on the Coates book, Wood wasnt sure what the students in her class had heard about her at home or on social media before they came to class.

One day, a teary-eyed student came to her concerned that youre about to be fired, Wood said. Another said he was told that youre a racist for wanting to teach Coates book and that the author hates white people.

I dont think they know what racism is, said Wood, who is white.

None of her students mentioned it, but Wood said she thinks its unlikely they didnt know about the controversy that erupted over the same book last summer. The author even paid a visit to Wood and sat in on a school board meeting where members of the public spoke in support of Woods teaching, although he didnt speak himself.

Coates is writing about the Lexington-Richland 5 controversy in his new book, The Message, publishing this fall. Among other reporting trips for the book, he takes readers along with him to Columbia, South Carolina, where he reports on his own books banning, but also explores the larger backlash to the nations recent reckoning with history and the deeply rooted American mythology so visible in that city a capital of the Confederacy with statues of segregationists looming over its public squares, according to a blurb from the publisher, Penguin Random House.

Ta-Nehisi Coates and Mary Wood, a teacher at Chapin High School, speak with Woods supporters before a meeting of the Lexington-Rchland 5 school board on Monday, July 17, 2023.

One source of encouragement for Wood was the presence of her 16-year-old son, Summit, in her class this semester, something that she thought helped with the classroom discussion.

It brought an element of humanity to me, she said. I wasnt just a teacher, Im Summits mom, so it established a more human connection. They could see me as more of a person.

The reason she wanted to teach Coates book, she said, was the same as the purpose of the AP course itself  to teacher students how to critically engage with and respond to other peoples perspectives they may be unfamiliar with, even when they disagree with them.

If you look at Chapin, its conservative, Christian, wealthy, and the world is bigger than that, she said.

Instead of being taught how to engage with those outside perspectives, she fears students will learn the correct reaction to them is to shut down that discourse and those relationships within the classroom.
Boston neighbors say blatant drug use fanning out deeper into neighborhoods

The warmer weather is bringing the crowds back to Bostons open-air drug market, and neighbors say its fanning out deeper into neighborhoods.

The concerns were addressed Tuesday evening at the June community meeting of the Working Group on Addiction, Recovery, and Homelessness.

Some South End residents said their quality of life issues are already proving to be worse this year because the activity isnt concentrated in one place.

They believe the clearing of tents and crowds on Atkinson Street has dispersed smaller pockets of people across several surrounding communities.

Recent pictures showed people passed out on private properties and drug users huddled at area bus stops near Washington Street and Mass Ave.

Theyre not all concentrated at Mass and Cass. Theyre spread throughout a 20 block radius now, said South End neighbor Bill Mootos. This is exactly what we feared would happen.

Boston 25 News observed the new reality of more scattered activity firsthand while driving through parts of the South End, Roxbury, South Boston and Dorchester.

We have a real estate market thats booming across the state, but its dead right here in our neighborhood, said John Stillwaggon with the Worcester Square Area Neighborhood Association. Neighbors on the other side of the South End are certainly disconnected from the reality of what were facing over here.

The Executive Director of Bostons Public Health Commission acknowledged the current situation and the challenges in fixing it.

I think all of us recognize that the crowding on Mass and Cass, on the connector and into the communities has been more challenging, said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu. Its increasing.

Boston Police point out that arresting people blatantly using drugs isnt a solution to the problem heading into the summer.

Some of these individuals are medically compromised. If arrest them, we cant get them through the booking system, said Sgt. Peter Messina with BPDs Street Outreach. This is a crisis that weve never seen before, and there needs to be alternative options available to us that arent yet created.

There are additional challenges.

Two transitional housing programs set up to shelter those kicked out of the tent encampment last year will soon be closing due to funding.

Bostons Chief of Housing also said that two of the largest shelters, 112 and Woods Mullen, are currently seeing approximately 640 people a night.

Sheila Dillon said that the recent influx of migrants is contributing to the overflowing capacity.

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Boston police seek publics help identifying woman in connection with assault and battery in Roxbury

Boston police are seeking the publics help in identifying a woman in connection with assault and battery in Roxbury.

According to Boston Police, the incident took place around 7:22 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18 in the area of 10 Roxbury Street.

The suspect is described as a light-skinned female, 20-30 years old, about 55, heavy set build, glasses, and light blonde hair that is curly and frizzy.

The suspect appears to have a tattoo on her right arm and was last seen wearing a cut-off black shirt and jean-style shorts.

Boston police is asking anyone with information about the incident or the suspect to contact District B-2 Detectives at (617) 343-4275.

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.

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The loss of another Chicago child to gun violence renews calls for justice as his family mourns

Dozens of people gathered Wednesday on the Near West Side to remember and mourn 7-year-old JaiMani Amir Rivera, who was fatally shot inside the gates of the apartment complex where he had been going to visit a friend.

The loss of the child drew attention this week in a city just beginning another summer and grappling with the violence the season usually brings.

People towing red, blue and silver balloons, some with pictures of Spider-Man, slowly joined a crowd in the 2300 block of Jackson Boulevard in the scorching heat. Others hoisted signs and pictures of the child into the air as the crowd called Justice for JaiMani and let the balloons fly.

Though activists had made the media aware of the vigil earlier in the day, grieving family members asked for their privacy. Some attendees shouted at reporters to leave. One organizer said the family had not disagreed with the move to put out a press release.

The family vowed that they would seek justice for JaiMani, who was shot in the chest shortly after 3 p.m. Tuesday as he walked out of his apartment to visit a next-door neighbor.

JaiManis aunt Vanessa Rivera eventually made a statement, remembering her nephew as an outgoing kid who had been looking forward to starting football.

We didnt lose a gang member on the streets, we lost a 7-year-old kid, Rivera said. The person that took my nephews life is going to pay for that.

After the confusion about whether the media was invited to observe the proceedings, Rivera, the boys aunt, told those gathered that if they wanted to help, they could donate water or other supplies for the funeral.

Organizers offered a $15,000 reward to anyone with information about JaiManis death and called on neighbors to assist law enforcement with the investigation.

One man who identified himself as a cousin of the family had written, I love you lil Primo. Sorry I never got the chance to meet you on a red balloon in the shape of a heart.

Chicago police Superintendent Larry Snelling said this week he did not believe the boy had been targeted.

Responding officers found him lying on the sidewalk, applied pressure to his chest and rushed him to Stroger Hospital in their squad car, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival, Snelling said.

Snelling said the boy was leaving his apartment to visit a next-door neighbor when he was struck by a random bullet fired from a really good distance away.

A Chicago Police Department source, familiar with the investigation but not authorized to speak publicly, said the bullet was fired from a rifle.

The random shooting of this 7-year-old is unacceptable, the superintendent told reporters Tuesday evening outside Stroger Hospital. We really have to think about who we are as a society when our kids are being shot in the street. Weve come off a violent weekend. We know that when we see the levels of heat that were seeing right now, that theres an uptick in violence because there are people out all times of night, tempers flare. But this is unacceptable.

This wasnt a situation where the parents didnt know where their child was, Snelling added. This child was walking out of his residence and was struck by random gunfire.

Mayor Brandon Johnson described the shooting as ungodly behavior, but stressed his administrations focus on addressing the root causes of violence.

As our detectives and our Police Department continue to investigate this tragic shooting of this baby, we will hold individuals accountable for the crime, for the torment and the torture that they have caused in this city, Johnson said. This is not just simply about our response to a tragedy, this is about our response to polic(ies) that have created conditions that have made it impossible for families to feel comfortable raising their children in Chicago.

JaiMani was shot just a few blocks east of where 5-year-old Reign Ware was killed less than a month ago.

After Tuesdays shooting, other residents of the Oakley Square apartment complex told reporters that gunfire in the area can feel indiscriminate at times and that they have become increasingly fearful for their safety.

Whenever they see their targets, they shoot, Sequinna Coakley said. Your grandmother could be out here, your mother could be out here. Your daddy, sister, brother, it doesnt matter.

Another neighbor, Ethiopia Jackson, said shed heard gunshots in the Oakley Square apartment complex for the past several days. Neighbors mentioned a shooting on the same block on June 10 that left an 18-year-old man with a gunshot wound to the leg.

Police officers and sergeants could be seen reviewing video footage at the gated entrance to the complex and walking in and out of an east-facing entrance to the apartment building late Tuesday afternoon, where crime tape blocked large sections of the parking lot and sidewalk.

Through last Friday, the city had seen nearly 50 fewer homicides in 2024 than the same time last year. Still, the city saw a violent Fathers Day weekend with seven homicides and 45 shooting victims in 35 incidents, according to police.

Tribune reporter Sam Charles contributed.
BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA)  Bradenton police are warning the public after receiving multiple reports of residents receiving calls from people posing as funeral home employees.

On Monday, the agency received multiple reports of individuals receiving a call from someone posing as an employee of Brown and Sons Funeral Homes.

Police said this is the second time the funeral home and its customers have been targeted in just the last six months.

It was yesterday afternoon, when all of a sudden the calls started coming in, said Meredith Censullo, a Bradenton Police Department spokesperson. We had at least three victims who had received calls from the funeral home with threats that they had to make an immediate payment or else their loved ones funeral services would be canceled.

Police said the calls happened in quick succession.

That is why we wanted to put out that alert because it just seems that when these scams occur, you have these people who are committing this fraud are simply going through obituaries, looking for someone who will take the bait and then they attempt to take advantage of them in what is probably a really bad time in their life, Censullo said.

Gene Brown, the owner of the business, who is also the citys mayor, told 8 On Your Side that this time around, the victims knew something wasnt right.

All three people that called last night hung up and called us right away. We have been telling families what happened in January and reminding them that we will not call and say you owe money, give us your credit card, Brown said. It is sad that there are people that low that will try to do something to prey on people at one of the worst times in their life.

Bradenton Police said anyone who receives one of these calls should:

Hang up.

Resist the pressure to act immediately.

Contact the funeral home directly using a phone number you know is verified, not the one from the scammers phone call, text message, or email.

Do not provide any form of payment, including PayPal or other wire transfer service, cryptocurrency or prepaid gifts card.

Police said it is possible there are other victims and are urging those individuals to report the crime immediately.

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.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  Pamela Laplante can finally worry a little less about toll violations shes been receiving for three years for someone elses vehicle.

It just took a little Better Call Behnken intervention.

It feels like harassment, Laplante said earlier this month when she called Consumer Investigator Shannon Behnken for help. Its every single month.

Laplante uses a hay trailer to get hay for her horses, but ever since she bought the trailer three years ago, she started receiving toll violations for a white car.

The violations were for the car going through the same tolls in South Florida, over and over again.

She called Better Call Behnken for help earlier this month, saying she couldnt reach anyone to clear this up once and for all.

Behnken reached out to the Florida Department of Transportation and was told they couldnt comment on individual accounts but would escalate this immediately and contact Laplante directly.

That same day, officials called her and said this would be flagged so this wouldnt happen again. She says she was even given a phone number to call if she received another mistaken violation.

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.
A sign outside the Millwood Field House directs voters inside to cast their vote in the June 18, 2024 primary election. A voter walks to her car after casting her vote. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Brian Bingman secured the Republican nomination for Corporation Commissioner with about 53% of the vote.

Brian Bingman secured the Republican nominantion for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission election. (Photo provided)

With over 237,000 votes reported throughout Oklahoma, about 29% of Republicans voted for Justin Hornback while about 18% backed Russell Ray.

Bingman will face the Democratic candidate Harold Spradling and Libertarian candidate Chad Williams in the Nov. 5 general election.

Bingman did not immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday night.

The Corporation Commission is a three-person body that regulates various industries, including the states public utilities. While elections for commissioners rarely draw attention, the Commission has faced public scrutiny over its handling of debt securitization following Winter Storm Uri that saw a nearly 40,000% spike in natural gas prices.

In his campaign leading up to the primary, Bingman said his priorities as commissioner would be good government and putting his experience in public office and in the private sector in the oil and gas industry to use. Bingman raised over $336,000 for his campaign, including funds from individuals with close ties to the entities that hed be tasked with regulating as a commissioner.

Hornback raised about $25,000 with his campaign focused on his industry experience and bringing fresh perspective to the Commission. Ray, whose priorities revolved around transparency and more diversity, raised just under $3,000.

Editors note: This story has been correct the first name of candidate Justin Hornback.

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Liberal Democrats leader Sir Ed Davey, attends the General Election campaign at the center for adults with learning disabilities in Carshalton, London, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

LONDON (AP)  Most politicians try to avoid slips, stumbles and undignified photos. Not Ed Davey.

The leader of Britains centrist Liberal Democrats has turned the countrys six-week general election campaign into a showreel of self-deprecating fun.

Davey, 58, has tumbled off a paddleboard into Englands biggest lake, screamed atop a rollercoaster, splashed down a waterslide, careened downhill on a bike and tackled an assault course. Hes also built sandcastles, made pancakes, competed in wheelbarrow races and had a summer fashion makeover on morning television.

The zany stunts are the partys answer to its electoral challenge: Its not easy being the third- or fourth-placed runner in a two-horse race between the U.K.'s two main parties, the ruling Conservatives and their rival, the Labour Party. Its even harder if, like Davey, you lead a moderate party in an age of extremes.

We can marry having a bit of fun with some serious messages, Davey said during a campaign stop in Carshalton, on the outskirts of London. When I fell off a paddleboard in Lake Windermere, yeah everyone thought it was a laugh, but actually it was making a serious point about sewage.

If you do it the traditional way, you make a speech at a lectern, you might get a tiny bit of coverage but people arent that engaged with it," he added. "I think that by taking a slightly different approach  with a bit of humor, a bit of emotion -- you can get peoples attention.

Davey spoke to The Associated Press after visiting Nickel Support, a center for learning-disabled adults. He helped make spicy relish, dicing chili peppers before sticking on labels declaring the contents Interestingly Different onto jars.

If that doesnt describe the Lib Dem campaign, I dont know what does, Davey said.

Daveys party was long the third-largest in Britains Parliament, but in recent years sank to fourth place behind the Scottish National Party. In campaigning for the U.K.s July 4 election, Davey is competing for attention not just against Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer  who is widely expected to be heading for victory  but also against the noisy populism of Nigel Farage and his hard-right party Reform U.K.

Hence the stunts. The last British politician this fond of playing to the camera was former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who famously got stuck mid-air on a zipline while waving Union Jacks. Unlike the deliberately buffoonish Johnson, Daveys image is that of a stolid middle-aged, middle-of-the-road politician.

And while Davey's pratfalls have been zany, his first election broadcast was heartfelt. Davey talked in the video about losing his father when he was four, and a decade later caring for his mother when she had terminal cancer. He spoke of the joys and challenges of looking after his disabled teenage son, John, who has a neurological disorder.

Improving Britains overstretched health and social care systems is at the core of the Liberal Democrats promises to voters, alongside clamping down on sewage-dumping water companies, lowering the voting age to 16 and rejoining the European Unions single market.

Daveys campaign style has drawn mixed reviews. Evening Standard columnist Tanya Gold accused him of debasing politics with infantilism and irresponsibility. But theres evidence voters are noticing. Polls suggest an uptick in support for the party, though many voters struggle to name its leader.

In Carshalton, where urban south London shades into leafy suburbia, office worker Connor Filsell, an undecided voter, drew a blank until a reporter mentioned the rollercoaster episode.

Oh, that was him! I feel bad  I should really know, he said.

Many houses in Carshalton display orange Lib Dem signs supporting local candidate Bobby Dean. The party lost to the Conservatives here by just 600 votes in 2019, and aims to win it back, along with other Conservative-held seats in the south and southwest of England.

The party is wary of overconfidence. Its still haunted by 2010, when then-leader Nick Cleggs charm sparked a wave of Cleggmania that propelled him into the post of deputy prime minister in a coalition government with the Conservatives.

What happened next became a cautionary tale. The Lib Dems had campaigned on a pledge to oppose any increase in university tuition fees. Months after the election, the coalition government tripled them. Voters punished the party at the next election, reducing the Liberal Democrats from 57 seats in the House of Commons to just eight.

Davey was a minister in the coalition government, and gets awkward questions about his role between 2010 and 2012 overseeing the state-owned Post Office at a time when its executives were falsely accusing branch managers of theft because of a faulty IT system.

Daveys party makes fewer headlines than Farages populist Reform, though the Lib Dems will almost certainly get more seats.

Daveys aim is to restore his party, which won 11 seats in 2019, to third place in Parliament. Some polls suggest that, if voter support for the Conservatives truly collapses, it could even come second.

He says the party's pitch to jaded voters is that it's "a reasonable alternative to the Conservatives.

I think most people are sensible and mainstream, want practical polices, Davey said. And I dont think we should allow the extremists to dominate the airwaves, whether its Nigel Farage or, dare I say, Donald Trump."
Manuel Guerrero Avina is now facing deportation without justice, according to his family (Guerrero Avina family)

A British-Mexican man who said he was tortured by Qatari authorities after being arrested in a Grindr sting is now facing deportation without justice.

Manuel Guerrero Avinas family also claimed his life was endangered as he was denied essential HIV medication when he was arbitrarily detained for more than six weeks in Qatar.

They said Manuel, 45, was finally charged 78 days after his arrest on 4 February with allegedly false drug charges, all of which the Briton strongly denies.

Amnesty International, FairSquare and the National Aids Trust are among those demanding Manuels subsequent conviction be quashed, calling his trial before the Al Sadd Criminal Court in Doha grossly unfair and believing the Qatari authorities are using the case to stigmatise and criminalise LGBT+ people in a country known for its harsh laws against that community. James Lynch, co-director of FairSquare, and Deborah Gold, CEO of National Aids Trust, called on the UK government to step in.

Manuel, who used to live in Ealing in west London, was sentenced on 4 June to a suspended six-month prison term and a fine, according to his family  and they say he now faces being deported from Qatar without first getting justice.

Manuel (left) with his brother Enrique who is a human rights lawyer based in Mexico City (Guerrero Avina family)

Speaking to The Independent this week, Manuels brother Enrique, 39, said: Its very unfair because my brother is detained because hes gay, he was tortured because of his sexual orientation and HIV-positive status.

We are still fighting and we will fight for justice and for the absolute freedom of Manuel.

Manuel, who has been a project manager for Qatar Airways in Doha for seven years, was reportedly arrested by plain-clothed security officials, shortly after he agreed to meet a man through the dating app Grindr.

Enrique, a human rights lawyer based in Mexico City, believes the online profile of the person his brother agreed to meet was fake and had been created by law-enforcement officials to entrap him.

Both Amnesty and Manuels family alleged the Qatari authorities detained Guerrero Avina without charge for 44 days, interrogating him without a lawyer about his sexual relations, and subjecting him to ill-treatment on the basis of his sexual orientation and his HIV-positive status.

Enrique claimed Manuel was placed in solitary confinement and denied access to food and water for 15 hours a day. He alleged the authorities also refused to provide his brother with essential HIV medication for a month following his arrest, with the virus subsequently showing as present in his blood after previously being undetectable. Enrique also said security officials threatened to whip Manuel if he did not unlock his phone to identify other LGBT+ people.

Enrique and his family have been campaigning for justice for Manuel (Guerrero Avina family)

When he travelled to see Manuel in detention, Enrique described his brother as fearful, disoriented and suffering from post-traumatic stress. It was terrible because it was so unfair, he said. It was very dangerous.

Both Amnesty and Manuels family also claimed security officials forced the 45-year-old to thumbprint a so-called confession in Arabic  which he did not understand. The human rights organisation said Manuel told a court that he denied all charges of possession of drugs and other drug-related offences six hours after signing the false confession.

They said Manuel repeatedly asked for a lawyer while in detention but was not able to obtain legal advice until 15 March, and that the authorities also denied him access to documents relating to his case for more than two months.

Aya Majzoub, Amnesty International Middle East and North Africa deputy director, said: The Qatari authorities must overturn Mr Guerrero Avinas outrageous conviction.

There are serious fears that Guerrero Avina was targeted for his sexual orientation and was coerced into providing the authorities with information that they could use to pursue a wider crackdown on LGBTI individuals in Qatar.

Manuel has lived in Doha and worked as a project manager for Qatar Airways for seven years (Guerrero Avina family)

Qatars authorities must urgently end the discrimination and persecution of people based on their sexual orientation and gender identities, and repeal all laws that discriminate against LGBTI people.

The human rights organisation said Qatar criminalises a range of same-sex consensual sexual acts and people found guilty can be jailed for up to seven years.

A Qatari official said: Mr Avina was arrested for possession of illegal substances. He acknowledged the possession of the seized substances ... A drug test later came back positive.

They said Manuel was arrested solely for the possession and distribution of illegal drugs in Qatar and that he has been treated with respect and dignity throughout his detention.

They added that Manuel will have the opportunity to appeal the court ruling.

According to Manuels family, his arrest report states nothing illegal was found on his person, while they strongly maintain that law-enforcement officials planted drugs in their search of his apartment on 4 February. Amnesty also said the authorities have relied on a questionable handwritten urine test result.

Mr Lynch said: The British government has a responsibility to make urgent representations to the Qatari government about the deeply unfair and discriminatory process their citizen has been subjected to.

They must also press the Qatari authorities to stop the persecution of people based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Ms Gold added: We urge the British government to do all it can to ensure Manuels health, rights and wellbeing.

A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said: We are supporting a British man in Qatar and are in contact with his family.

The FCDO said it takes all allegations of mistreatment seriously and will always offer to raise these with local authorities but cannot interfere in the judicial affairs of other countries.
The Broward School Board agreed on Tuesday to pay $108 million to local charter schools by 2027  about $67 million of an original debt and about $41 million from interest accrued.

The payment plan fixes an issue that had gotten the Broward school district in trouble with state officials, but creates a new budgetary dilemma that could affect employees. The board decided to delay that conversation until next Tuesday.

The school districts debt with charter schools, which are schools financed by taxpayers but managed by private entities, stems from a voter-approved referendum that the school district pushed in 2018.

FROM MARCH: Florida education officials say Broward Public Schools owe about $80M to charters

At the time, Broward County voters agreed to raise their property taxes over the next four years to increase compensation for teachers and other employees and improve school safety, among other initiatives. The school district used most of the money, and only shared about $4.6 million of the total $453.6 million generated with 21 charter schools with an enrollment of at least 900 students.

Last fall, some of the charter schools sued the district over the money, arguing a 2019 state law mandated the district to share the money with all charter schools. The Florida Department of Education interfered in late March and ordered the school district to settle the disagreement.

In April, the School Board approved a payment plan and on Tuesday, they green-lighted the details of that agreement. The $67 million will come from a referendum approved in 2022 and the interest will come from the districts general fund. The $41 million in interest stems from a 12% interest compounded annually.

FROM APRIL: Broward Public Schools will pay debt with charter schools. But state will still monitor

Debra Hixon, the boards vice chair, criticized the high interests.

Theres no negotiation here, she said. We were forced to just take it on the chin.

She and another board member, Allen Zeman, also raised concerns about what the budget impact would be on district employees like teachers because if referendum funds go toward the debt, there will be less for paying teachers, school security and resource officers and mental health counselors.

Superintendent Howard Hepburn said they would discuss those details at next Tuesdays board workshop.
Update at 5:35 p.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Three tons of irreplaceable artifacts, art pieces, and documents from the Pillsburied exhibit are now lost to Wednesdays fire in downtown Springfield.

Curator Robert Mazrim with the nonprofit Moving Pillsbury Forward Project confirmed the news on Wednesday afternoon. The exhibit was located on the third floor of the Adams Street building. He said it was full of important historical artifacts and documents from the old Pillsbury factory, as well as hundreds of art pieces  many of which included elements from the factory site.

Artifacts were dated between the 1930s to 1970s, Mazrim said. He also added that there were plans to soon reboot and reopen the exhibit with new installations. Now, Mazrim is unsure of its future.

However, he said anyone who would like to help the projects recovery may donate through the Moving Pillsbury Forward website. Just say its for the art.

MLK statue to stand in Springfield again next month

The Pillsburied exhibit isnt the only location to suffer damage from the fire. The Electric Quill tattoo shop also posted this photo on their Facebook page, stating that they will be closed for the time being.

So much gratitude to the firefighters working to control this, and our Adams Street neighbors also being affected by this and sharing their support, staff members stated.

One of those supportive neighbors is Ad Astra Wine & Tapas Bar. They said they are still open to offer cool shelter, food, and drinks.

To our friends and family at Cafe Moxo, The Cats Pyjamas Cat Cafe and everyone else affected by the fires on the block, we will all get you through this, bar staff wrote on social media.

Tonights events at Buzz Bomb Brewery and the Kidzeum have also been cancelled in response to the fire, an on-site WCIA reporter confirmed.

Update at 5 p.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  An on-scene WCIA reporter has confirmed with the Springfield Fire Department that the fire downtown is now brought under control.

Firefighters will continue to monitor and attend to hotspots through the rest of the night, Fire Chief Ed Canny said.

He also said the firefighter who was hurt earlier is in great spirits and was not severely injured.

Update at 4:08 p.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Springfield fire crews are still at the scene of a stubborn fire downtown. Fire Chief Ed Canny shared that one firefighter has been hurt, as well as more details regarding the ongoing situation.

WCIA 3s Springfield Eyenet Camera is capturing the scene here.

Canny said building occupants were able to get out safely as the fire started. However, a firefighter has since been hurt and taken to the hospital.

Champaign, LeRoy warn of firework danger ahead of 4th of July

He also confirmed that the fire is taking place at 413 East Adams Street. The building was formerly home to the recently-closed The Elf Shelf Books & Music, which was on the second floor.

The roof has now collapsed due to fire damage, Canny said, which means firefighters can only safely attack the flames from the outside. He said hoses are being used on both the front and back sides of the building.

As several buildings are connected to the location, fire crews are working hard to prevent the fire from spreading. It is currently trying to move east, Canny said. He expects crews to remain on scene through the evening.

Update at 3:23 p.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Another business has been evacuated as the Springfield Fire Department continues to battle a fire downtown.

The Wakery, located around the corner from the ongoing fire, announced on Facebook that they will have a late opening due to the situation. Depending on when the fire is extinguished, staff members said it may even close for the entire day. However, they assured that their staff is safe.

Springfield City Council votes for balancing act on new liquor license

Meanwhile, an on-scene reporter captured the following photo near 3 p.m., as smoke was filling up the street.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA)  Fire crews are at the scene of a fire in downtown Springfield.

The fire is on Adams Street, in a building connected to the right of Cafe Moxo. The nearby Cats Pyjamas Cat Cafe confirmed that their cats are currently safe in the hands of Buzz Bomb Brewing Company.

Smoke on the water: Boat catches fire on Lake Springfield







THANK YOU Springfield Fire Fighters Local 37 for containing this and ensuring safety of everyone affected including our cats from The Cats Pyjamas Cat Cafe. THANK YOU to Buzz Bomb Brewing Company for housing the cats right away! said Ward 5 Alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase in a social media post.

Ward 5 includes the downtown area.

An on-scene reporter said the Old Capitol Farmers Market has been cut short for the day while firefighters attend to the area.

WCIA has reached out to the Springfield Fire Department and awaits more information.

This is a developing story.

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.
ASHEVILLE - Buncombe County Commission approved its fiscal year 2024-25 budget June 18, which includes a property tax increase for county residents, though less of a bump than was initially proposed.

The $626.4 million budget includes a 1.96-cent property tax increase, bringing the rate to 51.76 cents per $100 of assessed valuation, with 1.21 cents dedicated to county operations, and .75 cents to K-12 education. It will generate $10.5 million in additional revenue.

It is a .59-cent tax reduction from the original budget proposal, which Budget Director John Hudson said came in response to feedback from county commissioners. Depending on location, property owners also pay municipal, fire fighting district or school district taxes.

The Buncombe County Administration Building in Asheville.

A 'tough' budget

Chairman Brownie Newman said it was one of the toughest budgets he's worked on, a sentiment that Commissioner Al Whitesides echoed.

Newman was elected to County Commission in 2012. He announced late last year he would not run for reelection.

"(Increasing the tax rate) is always a very difficult decision because it affects a lot of people who are struggling in the community. It's not just effecting tourists or the wealthiest folks in our community, it affects everyone in a real way," Newman said.

Though costs are expected to increase annually, he said, "when you go through two years of the largest cost of living increases that we've seen in many decades for sure, that becomes a really big obligation. And when that happens and your revenues suddenly are really flat, the combination of those two things creates a real challenge."

Like other localities statewide  including Asheville, which approved its own $250.9 million budget June 11, and a .63-cent property tax increase  stagnating sales tax revenues have created complications. In fiscal years 2021 and 2022, the county averaged around 14% growth, dropping to 5.5% in 2023. This year, it's projecting 1.5% growth.

Chairman Brownie Newman said the fiscal year 2024-25 budget was one of the toughest he's worked on during his time on Buncombe County Commission.

Despite difficulties, with the help of 2022's $70 million bond referendum, Newman praised the county's investments in affordable housing and conservation. He was also excited to see new investments in emergency services and public safety.

Whitesides called it the "most difficult" budget of the eight since he's been on commission, though he said they must begin looking more intently at education.

"We need to look ahead to the future and how we do this, because it's important," Whitesides said. "What we're doing now is definitely not working and it's not going to get any better unless we put our arms around it. And unfortunately we're going to have to make some tough decisions."

Buncombe County Commissioner Al Whitesides speaks during the MLK Jr. Prayer Breakfast in Asheville, January 13, 2024.

Commissioner Martin Moore agreed, and said a multiyear funding strategy for education was needed. He is running for North Carolina Court of Appeals.

Hudson called it a "continuation of services budget," with $4 million of operating cuts, as well as deferred capital projects. It includes a "minimal increase" in revenue, about 1.3% in the general fund, according to a June 18 presentation.

Challenges are exacerbated, the budget document said, by one of the highest costs of living in the state, lack of housing supply, worker shortages and the need to offer competitive wages.

County Manager Avril Pinder recommended 30 new positions from a request of 130 across 24 departments and divisions, plus three positions in the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund. Included in the budget is an annual cost of living adjustment of 4.89% for all regular employees.

Buncombe County Manager Avril Pinder April 4, 2023.

Budget highlights

County spending plan proposed for fiscal year 2025 (July 1 - June 30)

$626.4 million - total budget, up from $609 million.

$440 million - general fund, the biggest fund in the budget. It's an increase of .7% from the previous year. Includes many core services such as EMS, sheriff's office, parks and recreation and boosts for schools, which are otherwise state funded.

51.76 cents - tax rate, up from 49.8 cents. To calculate county property taxes, divide assessed property value by $100 and multiply by the tax rate. It represents an annual increase of $78.40 annually on a home valued at $400,000.

$514K goes to Community Paramedics

Also at its June 18 meeting, Buncombe commissioners approved the reallocation of $1.9 million left over from the $50.7 million in COVID recovery funding awarded in 2021.

Though these funds were previously allocated, money was freed up from two projects, and will be redirected in part toward the county's Community Paramedic Program, which would see $514,085 in additional funding. This would allow four positions to be extended to June 30, 2026 from their original expiration date of Dec. 31. It will also provide $30,000 for mobile command center costs.

The remaining $1.4 million will go to capital outlay equipment, which helps to alleviate financial pressure on the fiscal year 2025 budget, adopted later that night, to offset capital expenses.

A Buncombe County EMS vehicle travels on Haywood Road near the I-240 exit.

More: Asheville OKs $250M budget; higher pay for city employees, property taxes to increase

More: 10 years of marriage equality in NC: Asheville photo exhibit celebrates historic day

Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on Twitter at @slhonosky. Please support local, daily journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Buncombe County OKs FY25 budget; property taxes to increase
The child of convicted killer Alex Murdaugh, Buster Murdaugh, is suing multiple companies, including Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery, for defamation over documentary series they were involved in.

The documentaries, both on Warner Bros. Discoverys Max streaming service and Netflix, feature statements that a complaint filed last Friday says were defamatory and falsely accused the Plaintiff of being involved in the murder of Stephen Smith.

[A]s a result of the specific false and defamatory statements made by Defendants and republished by Defendants the Plaintiffs reputation has been irreparably damaged, and he has suffered mental anguish, the South Carolina complaint continues.

Buster Murdaugh has denied being a part of the 2015 death of Smith, a high school classmate, pushing back in a past statement to NBC News against vicious rumors that allege he was involved in it.

I have tried my best to ignore the vicious rumors about my involvement in Stephen Smiths tragic death that continue to be published in the media as I grieve over the brutal murders of my mother and brother, he said.

Buster Murdaughs father was sentenced to life in prison in July of last year for the 2021 killings of his wife, Maggie Murdaugh, and Paul Murdaugh, his other son.

This has gone on far too long. These baseless rumors of my involvement with Stephen and his death are false, Buster Murdaugh said in his statement to NBC News I unequivocally deny any involvement in his death, and my heart goes out to the Smith family.

The Hill has reached out to an attorney for Murdaugh, Warner Bros. Discovery and Netflix.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Gov. Joe Lombardo made a historic appointment to the Nevada Eighth Judicial District Court this week, naming the first South Asian to hold a judicial position in the state, according to the court.

Tina Talim was appointed to Department 14 in the busy Eighth District, where 58 judges preside over nearly 100,000 criminal, civil and family cases filed each year.

To serve the entirety of the term, the appointed judge is required to file as a candidate in the November 2024 general election. The current term for all district court judges in Nevada expires Jan. 4, 2027.

The court announced a Special Judicial Candidate filing period for two judgeships in the Eighth District Court since the retirements of the Honorable Adriana Escobar in Department 14 and Judge Nancy Allf in Department 27. Lombardo appointed Erika Mendoza to fill the Department 27 vacancy. Candidates may file now through Thursday, July 25th from 8 a.m.  5 p.m. (closed Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and holidays) and on Friday, July 26, 2024 from 8 a.m.  5 p.m. Candidates must file with the Clark County Registrar of Voters.

Talim currently serves as the Team Chief of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Unit in the Clark County District Attorneys Office. She immigrated to the United States from India as a young child, according to the announcement.

I am grateful to Governor Lombardo for this appointment and deeply honored to serve as a judge in the Eighth Judicial District Court, Talim said. This appointment is not only a personal milestone, but it serves as a testament to the broadening representation within our judicial system. I look forward to serving our community from the bench.

Chief Judge Jerry Wiese welcomed Talim to the court. She plans to take the bench next week, and I anticipate with her wealth of experience that she will have an immediate impact at our very busy court.

The Nevada Commission on Judicial Selection interviews applicants for judicial vacancies. The nominees are then forwarded to the governor, who has 30 days to make an appointment.

To be eligible to apply for a seat on the Eighth Judicial District Court bench, applicants must be Nevada attorney in good standing with 10 years of legal experience, two years of Nevada legal practice and residency, and be at least 25 years old.

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.
CONCORD, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Cabarrus County officials voted to include $2 million for affordable housing in the FY25 budget on Monday.

County commissioners agreed to establish a revolving loan fund for housing programs and developments.

Housing-focused non-profits, such as Habitat for Humanity, can apply for low-interest loans through the fund for permanent housing developments. The organization would then be responsible for repayment.

Activists launched a months-long campaign for the fund allocation called One New Fund, Many New Homes, spearheaded by Down Home NC.

Revolving-Low-Interest-Loan-Fund-for-Affordable-and-Workforce-Housing_One-Pager.docxDownload

Cabarrus County regional organizer for the group Jasmine Lewter said the county was previously not dedicating any money to address housing issues.

Housing is a right. People deserve places to live. Adequate, safe places to live, she said. Something like this will really create a healthier Cabarrus County.

Down Home NC is a statewide, non-partisan, non-profit organization with a goal of increasing the quality of life for the working class in small towns and rural communities.

Lewter said organization members canvassed neighborhoods in the region, speaking with residents about what issues they felt most pressing before embarking on the campaign.

This isnt something we just decided to do because we wanted to. We went out, we knocked on doors, we talked to people in the community. We had conversations, and we saw how badly the community was hurting and how much it affects people who live in this county, she said.

Judge approves settlement in Folly Beach DUI golf cart crash that killed bride

The North Carolina Housing Coalition found Cabarrus County ranks fifth in the state for renter evictions, and roughly 50 percent of renters have difficulty affording their homes.

Down Home NC leaders worked with those at WeBuild Concord to further develop the Revolving Construction Loan Fund.

WeBuild Concord will work in partnership with the Revolving Fund Council to administer the money. The council will be made up of people in both the private and public sectors with housing and lending expertise.

Lewter said the idea was well-developed before bringing it to elected officials.

We brought this to the county commissioners and we were like, Hey, we have a solution for how we can give people access to affordable housing in this county. All you have to do is find the money to fund it, Lewter said.

Commissioner Kenneth Wortman brought up a motion to include the fund in the budget Monday evening.

People with stable housing are much less likely to spend time in our detention facility and to be involved with public assistance programs, Wortman said. This is our opportunity to not give people a handout, but to give people a hand up.

No one spoke against the motion.

Novant halts plans to acquire Iredell County hospitals following continued roadblocks, appellate court ruling

The initial allocation will be $200,000, with a promise from commissioners to find an additional $1.8 million in the budget over the course of the next year.

Lewter said their initiative to become part of the county budget is proof that local activism can work.

As someone who was raised in this county, Ive been (in) Kannapolis my entire life, graduated from A.L. Brown High School, it just it means so much to us to be able to create something that will create fundamental change in the county, she said. It can help even if it wont solve the hurt. You know, nothing is going to go away overnight.

Lewter said it would take some time before any projects enter the construction phase. She expects to see the council beginning to meet and organizations submitting applications for funding over the next year.

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.
Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert!

LAWMAKER PULLS SB 915 FROM CONSIDERATION

The tech sector has declared victory after Sen. Dave Cortese, D-San Jose, withdrew SB915, which would change how self-driving cars are regulated, from consideration this week.

SB 915 would have given local municipalities the ability to regulate, though not ban, autonomous vehicles, also known as self-driving cars, within their jurisdictions.

Currently, the vehicles are regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission and the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Its good to see California lawmakers going back to the drawing board on autonomous vehicle policy, said Ruth Whittaker of the Chamber of Progress, which advocates on behalf of the tech industry.

Autonomous vehicles have the power to save thousands of lives in California by eliminating drunk, distracted, and unsafe human driving. Over the past month, weve heard leaders from across the state raise concerns that this bill could derail progress on Californias roads, she said.

Critics of the bill had argued that it would create a patchwork of regulations that would make it very difficult for AV companies to operate in the state.

Jeff Farrah of the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association, a trade group that opposed the bill, said in a statement, Cities are critical partners for AV companies, and the AV industry remains committed to fostering close and collaborative relationships with city officials and local law enforcement to ensure the technologys benefits become a reality.

Cortese told The Bee that he pulled the bill because the Assembly Transportation Committee was looking to gut it with what he called hostile amendments.

So basically, we had nothing left to move forward, he said.

Cortese said hes not done yet. He plans to introduce new legislation next year on this topic. He said that the need for that legislation will only become more apparent as AVs see wider use and lead to greater local community damages.

The increased propensity for tragedy and more human carnage like they had in San Francisco is predictive, he said, referring to a number of accidents in the Bay Area that have resulted in human injury. ...The problems that are out there are just going to persist.

ROADKILL REPORT

California drivers kill more than 48,000 deer every year  more than twice the amount of deer killed by hunting, according to a new report out this week.

The report, titled Roadkill: A Preventable Disaster, comes via UC Davis, and reveals that in addition to deer, California drivers also hit and kill thousands of Pacific newts, nearly 100 mountain lions and thousands of other creatures annually.

Roadkill may be a major reason for the decline in deer population, according to the report.

Anytime you get a reduction in roadkill, people think its a good thing, said Fraser Shilling, director of the UC Davis Road Ecology Center, a program of the Institute of Transportation Studies. But its often not. In this case, its because there are fewer deer and other animals to hit.

So where are these animals being hit the most?

The states hot spots for roadkill include Interstate 680 in Contra Costa and Alameda counties, Interstate 280 on the San Francisco Peninsula, Highway 101 in Marin County, Highway 50 in El Dorado County, State Route 17 in Santa Cruz County and State Route 49 in Placer and Nevada counties.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

Donald Trump thinks he is above the law, and this should be disqualifying for anyone who wants to be president of the United States.

- Vice President Kamala Harris, via X.

Best of The Bee:

Why did a California state agency host a motivational speaker playing Spider-Man? Via Andrew Sheeler .

Three people have died in Sacramento jail since early May. Is the county responsible? Via Theresa Clift.
(FOX40.COM)  A woman hiking in the high Sierra Nevada had to be rescued after a detour and water break turned into a serious health emergency, according to Inyo County Search and Rescue.

Video above: National Park Safety; Tips to know before you go

On the evening of June 12, the woman was section hiking the John Muir trail north of Kings Canyon National Park when she encountered a large amount of snow on Mather Pass.

Feeling uncomfortable about attempting to cross the snow, the woman took the Taboose Pass trail as the next easiest way to leave the Sierra.

A little under two miles from reaching the trailhead, she went to get water from a creek when she was bitten by what she believed to be a spider.

Leave much earlier: Highway 70 closes for near future amid Hotel Marysville fire

Sometime after receiving the probable bite, the woman was unable to feel the skin on her legs and was unable to continue her exit hike, the SAR team said.

She was able to share her coordinates while calling for a rescue before her phone died.

Responding rescuers used a litter to collect the woman after she was assessed and brought her back down about a mile-and-a-half where they had stashed a wheeled litter to carefully bring her down the rest of the way.

At midnight, the woman and rescuers reached the trailhead to their awaiting vehicle.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.
KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 12:46 | World, All

Thailand's Senate has passed a marriage equality bill in a move to make the country the first in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage.

The bill was supported by an overwhelming majority of upper house lawmakers in a vote Tuesday. The legislation will be submitted for royal endorsement and is expected to come into force 120 days after its publication in the Royal Gazette by the end of this year.

The House of Representatives had passed the bill in March.

Under the law, same-sex couples will be granted the same marriage rights as heterosexual couples, including the rights to adopt children and inherit assets.

The law uses gender-neutral terms, referring to married couples as "two individuals" rather than "a man and a woman."

LGBTQ+ individuals from any country will be able to register their marriages in Thailand or with their Thai partners. Foreign same-sex couples will be eligible for a spousal visa.

Thailand is known for its LGBTQ+ culture and tolerance. Earlier this month, thousands of LGBTQ+ people participated in a Pride parade in Bangkok and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin joined it.

Related coverage:

Japan court OKs family name change for man in same-sex relationship

65% feel Japan need not rush to debate Constitution revisions: poll

FEATURE: Same-sex marriage turns 10 in Britain: two couples reflect
California lawmakers are trying to regulate AI before it's too late. Here's how

The Apple Intelligence prompts a user to ask for permission to use ChatGPT. (NurPhoto via Getty Images)

For four years, Jacob Hilton worked for one of the most influential startups in the Bay Area  OpenAI. His research helped test and improve the truthfulness of AI models such as ChatGPT. He believes artificial intelligence can benefit society, but he also recognizes the serious risks if the technology is left unchecked.

Hilton was among 13 current and former OpenAI and Google employees who this month signed an open letter that called for more whistleblower protections, citing broad confidentiality agreements as problematic.

"The basic situation is that employees, the people closest to the technology, they're also the ones with the most to lose from being retaliated against for speaking up," says Hilton, 33, now a researcher at the nonprofit Alignment Research Center, who lives in Berkeley.

California legislators are rushing to address such concerns through roughly 50 AI-related bills, many of which aim to place safeguards around the rapidly evolving technology, which lawmakers say could cause societal harm.

However, groups representing large tech companies argue that the proposed legislation could stifle innovation and creativity, causing California to lose its competitive edgeand dramatically change how AI is developed in the state.

The effects of artificial intelligence on employment, society and culture are wide reaching, and that's reflected in the number of bills circulating the Legislature . They cover a range of AI-related fears, including job replacement, data security and racial discrimination.

One bill, co-sponsored by the Teamsters, aims to mandate human oversight on driver-less heavy-duty trucks. A bill backed by the Service Employees International Union attempts to ban the automation or replacement of jobs by AI systems at call centers that provide public benefit services, such as Medi-Cal. Another bill, written by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), would require companies developing large AI models to do safety testing.

Read more: California lawmakers want to protect actors from being replaced by artificial intelligence

The plethora of bills come after politicians were criticized for not cracking down hard enough on social media companies until it was too late. During the Biden administration, federal and state Democrats have become more aggressive in going after big tech firms.

"We've seen with other technologies that we don't do anything until well after there's a big problem," Wiener said. "Social media had contributed many good things to society ... but we know there have been significant downsides to social media, and we did nothing to reduce or to mitigate those harms. And now we're playing catch-up. I prefer not to play catch-up."

The push comes as AI tools are quickly progressing. They read bedtime stories to children, sort drive through orders at fast food locations and help make music videos. While some tech enthusiasts enthuse about AI's potential benefits, others fear job losses and safety issues.

"It caught almost everybody by surprise, including many of the experts, in how rapidly [the tech is] progressing," said Dan Hendrycks, director of the San Francisco-based nonprofit Center for AI Safety. "If we just delay and don't do anything for several years, then we may be waiting until it's too late."

Read more: Washed Out's new music video was created with AI. Is it a watershed moment for Sora?

Wiener's bill, SB1047, which is backed by the Center for AI Safety, calls for companies building large AI models to conduct safety testing and have the ability to turn off models that they directly control.

The bill's proponents say it would protect against situations such as AI being used to create biological weapons or shut down the electrical grid, for example. The bill also would require AI companies to implement ways for employees to file anonymous concerns. The state attorney general could sue to enforce safety rules.

"Very powerful technology brings both benefits and risks, and I want to make sure that the benefits of AI profoundly outweigh the risks," Wiener said.

Read more: AI is here, and it's making movies. Is Hollywood ready?

Opponents of the bill, including TechNet, a trade group that counts tech companies including Meta, Google and OpenAI among its members, say policymakers should move cautiously . Meta and OpenAI did not return a request for comment. Google declined to comment.

Moving too quickly has its own sort of consequences, potentially stifling and tamping down some of the benefits that can come with this technology, said Dylan Hoffman, executive director for California and the Southwest for TechNet.

The bill passed the Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee on Tuesday and will next go to the Assembly Judiciary Committee and Assembly Appropriations Committee, and if it passes, to the Assembly floor.

Proponents of Wiener's bill say they're responding to the public's wishes. In a poll of 800 potential voters in California commissioned by the Center for AI Safety Action Fund, 86% of participants said it was an important priority for the state to develop AI safety regulations. According to the poll, 77% of participants supported the proposal to subject AI systems to safety testing.

"The status quo right now is that, when it comes to safety and security, we're relying on voluntary public commitments made by these companies," said Hilton, the former OpenAI employee. "But part of the problem is that there isn't a good accountability mechanism."

Read more: Scarlett Johansson also thinks OpenAI's new voice sounds like her. She's not happy about it

Another bill with sweeping implications for workplaces is AB 2930, which seeks to prevent algorithmic discrimination, or when automated systems put certain people at a disadvantage based on their race, gender or sexual orientation when it comes to hiring, pay and termination.

We see example after example in the AI space where outputs are biased, said Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda).

The anti-discrimination bill failed in last years legislative session, with major opposition from tech companies. Reintroduced this year, the measure initially had backing from high-profile tech companies Workday and Microsoft, although they have wavered in their support, expressing concerns over amendments that would put more responsibility on firms developing AI products to curb bias.

Usually, you dont have industries saying, Regulate me, but various communities dont trust AI, and what this effort is trying to do is build trust in these AI systems, which I think is really beneficial for industry, Bauer-Kahan said.

Read more: AI companies are courting Hollywood. Do they come in peace?

Some labor and data privacy advocates worry that language in the proposed anti-discrimination legislation is too weak. Opponents say it's too broad.

Chandler Morse, head of public policy at Workday, said the company supports AB 2930 as introduced. We are currently evaluating our position on the new amendments, Morse said.

Microsoft declined to comment.

The threat of AI is also a rallying cry for Hollywood unions. The Writers Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists negotiated AI protections for their members during last year's strikes, but the risks of the tech go beyond the scope of union contracts, said actors guild National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland.

"We need public policy to catch up and to start putting these norms in place so that there is less of a Wild West kind of environment going on with AI," Crabtree-Ireland said.

SAG-AFTRA has helped draft three federal bills related to deepfakes (misleading images and videos often involving celebrity likenesses), along with two measures in California, including AB 2602, that would strengthen worker control over use of their digital image. The legislation, if approved, would require that workers be represented by their union or legal counsel for agreements involving AI-generated likenesses to be legally binding.

Read more: SAG-AFTRA leaders defend AI protections: 'We achieved the best possible deal'

Tech companies urge caution against overregulation. Todd O'Boyle, of the tech industry group Chamber of Progress, said California AI companies may opt to move elsewhere if government oversight becomes overbearing. It's important for legislators to "not let fears of speculative harms drive policymaking when we've got this transformative, technological innovation that stands to create so much prosperity in its earliest days," he said.

When regulations are put in place, it's hard to roll them back, warned Aaron Levie, chief executive of the Redwood City-based cloud computing company Box, which is incorporating AI into its products.

"We need to actually have more powerful models that do even more and are more capable," Levie said, "and then let's start to assess the risk incrementally from there."

But Crabtree-Ireland said tech companies are trying to slow-roll regulation by making the issues seem more complicated than they are and by saying they need to be solved in one comprehensive public policy proposal.

"We reject that completely," Crabtree-Ireland said. "We don't think everything about AI has to be solved all at once."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
SANTA ANA, Calif. (AP)  A California man charged with killing a gay University of Pennsylvania student in an alleged hate crime six years ago testified Tuesday about how the two men connected on social media and went to a park. It was the last time the victim was seen.

Samuel Woodward, 26, took the stand in his trial in an Orange County courtroom with long hair partly covering his face. His lawyer repeatedly asked him to push it aside so jurors could see him.

In response to questioning, Woodward told the court there were times in his life where he felt he didnt have friends and that virtually the only communication he had with other people was online. He acknowledged he matched with former high school classmate Blaze Bernstein on a dating app, and six months later, when the two reconnected, he told Bernstein it was awkward to be chatting since he came from a conservative, Catholic family.

I had been looking for people for a long time to spend time with or talk to, Woodward said during his third day testifying in his monthslong trial.

Woodward is charged with murder with an enhancement for a hate crime in the death of Bernstein, a 19-year-old gay Jewish college sophomore who was home visiting family in Southern California on winter break when he disappeared in 2018. Bernsteins body was found days later buried in a shallow grave in a nearby park.

The two men had connected online in the months before the attack, according to screenshots of their conversations shown during the trial.

Prosecutors said Woodward had joined the violent, anti-gay, antisemitic group known as Atomwaffen Division and repeatedly targeted gay men online by reaching out to them and then abruptly breaking off contact while keeping a hateful, profanity-laced journal of his actions. Prosecutors also said that Woodward showed an interest in moving from words to violent actions and that they found hate group materials among his belongings.

Defense attorney Ken Morrison didnt dispute that his client carried out the fatal attack, but said Woodward didnt plan to kill anyone and didnt hate Bernstein.

He said Woodward faced challenges in his personal relationships due to a long-undiagnosed autism spectrum disorder and was confused about his own sexuality after growing up in a politically conservative and devout Catholic family where his father openly criticized homosexuality.

During his testimony, Woodward acknowledged he had read excerpts of the book Siege  a text promoted by Atomwaffen Division and had contacts with and met up with members of the group.

The case took years to go to trial after questions arose about Woodwards mental state and following multiple changes in defense attorneys. Woodward was deemed competent to stand trial in late 2022.

The trial has involved numerous witnesses including relatives, friends and authorities. Woodwards testimony has moved slowly, with him taking long pauses before answering his attorneys questions.

Bernstein disappeared in January 2018 after he went out at night with Woodward to a park in Lake Forest, about 45 miles (70 kilometers) southeast of Los Angeles. After Bernstein missed a dentist appointment the next day, his parents found his glasses, wallet and credit cards in his bedroom and tried reaching him but he didnt respond to texts or calls.

Authorities launched an exhaustive search and said that Bernsteins family had scoured his social media and saw he had communicated on Snapchat with Woodward. Authorities said Woodward told the family Bernstein had gone off to meet a friend in the park that night and hadnt returned.

Days later, Bernsteins body was found buried at the park. He had been repeatedly stabbed in the face and neck.

Authorities said they searched Woodwards family home in the nearby seaside community of Newport Beach and found a folding knife with a bloodied blade in his room. They also found a black Atomwaffen mask with traces of blood and a host of anti-gay, antisemitic and hate group materials, prosecutors said.

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California is making an effort to return more than 2,800 acres of ancestral homeland to the Shasta Indian Nation in the northwestern end of the state, the governors office said in a statement on Tuesday.

The land transfer is part of the states efforts to reconcile with Native communities that have suffered from centuries of discrimination and exploitation.

Biden expands 2 national monuments in California significant to tribal nations

The total 2,820 acres are part of land associated with the removal of several dams along the Klamath River, which for decades interrupted migrating salmon and many traditions of Native populations who relied on the same waters.

The Shasta people lived for centuries in the area that is now northern California and southern Oregon.

California Native American tribe reacquires ancestral land in downtown Sacramento

Having access to our ceremonial sites, including the site of our First Salmon Ceremony, is critical to the spiritual and emotional health of our people. The ceremony has not taken place since the lands were taken by eminent domain for the construction of Copco dam over 100 years ago. This is transformative and the beginning of restorative justice for our people, Shasta Indian Nation Chairperson Janice Crowe said in a statement provided by the governors office.

In recent years, Native American tribes have been reclaiming ancestral lands either by purchasing them or through agreements with local, state and federal governments.

In March of this year, the Yurok in Northern California became the first Native Tribe to manage tribal land with the National Park Service.

In 2019, California formed the Truth and Healing Council, a body made up of officials from the state government and Native tribes, that collaborates on various programs and initiatives.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.
For as long as Pride has been observed across the United States, anti-LGBTQ activists have targeted the celebrations. But in recent years, threats to Pride events have become more common, and anti-LGBTQ harassment at these events has become more violent. Tracking and preparing for those threats has now become part of Pride season.

This year, the incidents come in the context of waves of anti-LGBTQ legislation and the resulting legal challenges. They are amplified by Republican Party officials and lawmakers, couched in the rhetoric of protecting children and Christian nationalism. And that presents certain challenges when were talking about anti-Pride threats. Because while the incidents that have already taken place this year may seem to be the work of individualspeople who might not be immediately linked to a well-known groupthese attacks on queer and trans community are not isolated. This is political violence, not individual resentment, and its critical to identify it as such.

In at least 10 states since June 1, LGBTQ+ magazine Them has identified anti-LGBTQ+ vandalism and threats of violence, including more than a dozen vandalized Pride flags or banners. They have also documented bomb threats in three states. These almost certainly wont be the last threats targeting Pride. Both in 2023 and 2022, the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project reported spikes in anti-LGBTQ protests and violence in June. Pride month, ACLED reported, saw the highest number of anti-LGBTQ+ demonstrations in ACLEDs US data, as well as the highest single-month levels of far-right activity in 2023. They have since forecast that the increase in anti-LGTBQ+ sentiment is likely to continue throughout the 2024 election cycle as politicians, such as Trump, continue to use anti-LGBTQ+ language to rally conservative Christian supporters.

That link between anti-LGBTQ harassment and Trumps quest to return to power needs to be emphasized. The Proud Boys are back, Reuters recently reported. After they played a leading role in the attack on the U.S. Capitol on Trumps behalf in 2021, all but one of the eight cases of Proud Boysrelated political violence in 2023 involved clashes between Proud Boys and left-wing activists at demonstrations supporting LGBTQ+ rights. Now some Proud Boys say they are preparing to emerge once again as a physical force for Trump, attending pro-Trump events. Though such events may be distinct from far-right harassment of Pride events, clearly the same groups are present at both, and the political goals overlap.

Attacks on or threats to Pride events vary, and the perpetrators are not always identified. In a recent report on LGBTQ+ safe spaces released by the Anti-Violence Project, just over 62 percent of organizations surveyed had experienced some type of harassment or violence in 2022. Nearly 24 percent reported threats involving hate mail or suspicious packages, 18 percent got threats or harassment outside their space, and 17.5 percent faced vandalism or property damage. For those who had protests or threats outside their space, they were much more likely to know who had threatened them.

Earlier this month, when an Austin brewery got a bomb threat specifically citing the drag brunch the brewery hosts, they made the decision to shut down for the day. The threat came via email to the Brewtorium Brewery & Kitchen on the day of their Legendary Drag Brunch and Market, claiming a pipe bomb had been placed in the restaurant office. The email reportedly also said, fuck drag queen scum. A few days later, Pride and Black Lives Matter signs were stolen from an Austin church. The associate pastor said it seemed like someone had run over the signs with their car. Texas has faced far-right and Christian-nationalist harassment of drag and Pride events in the state over the past several years, which at time has featured people invoking Christ as they taunted drag brunch attendees as groomers. The Texas state legislature also attempted to effectively ban drag in 2023, a ban that was ruled unconstitutional.

When police came to investigate the threat at the Brewtorium in Austin, they found no bomb. After a day full of back and forth with the Austin Police Department and an FBI liaison, it has been determined that we were most likely a victim of a hoax that has affected institutions in several major cities throughout the U.S. recently, the Brewtoriums owner said in a statement to Eater Austin. (In May, the FBI issued an advisory about possible threats to Pride, but it focused only on foreign terrorist organizations.) While no one was injured, the hoax bomb accomplished what such threats are meant to: shutting down events. Others may also consider whether Pride events are safe to host in the future.

Attacks targeting Pride events this year are not limited to states or communities with anti-LGBTQ legislation, or where Trump has a conspicuous base. This June, one week after Beverly Unitarian Church in Chicago held its first Pride event in its history, a Pride flag flying at the church was torn down and burned on the church lawn. In response to the attack, the congregation has added more Pride colors to the outside of the church, and theyve scheduled a second Pride event later this month. We are not going away. Our beliefs are not going away. Our trust in people is going away, Beth OGrady, chair of the church board of trustees, told the local CBS News outlet.

The local news outlet The Beverly Review noted the vandalism at Beverly Unitarian Church came just days after the Colorado Republican Party had called for the burning of Pride flags in a party email, including a video of an anti-LGBTQ+ sermon from a Scottsdale, Arizona, evangelical pastor, promoted as God Hates Flags.

Other targets this June included the First Congregational Church on Marthas Vineyard in Massachusetts, where a Pride flag was torn down. A security camera showed the suspect looking straight into the camera. Elsewhere in Massachusetts, more than 200 small Pride flags were stolen from a rotary in the town of Carlisle (which were quickly replaced by community members). And in New York, Pride flags were stolen and burned at the Stonewall National Monumenta historical marker outside the bar commemorating the rebellion that Pride itself commemorates.

It may seem petty or excessive to target a rainbow flag, perhaps the lowest-effort gesture at allyship or belonging that any institution can make. But this fixation reveals the deeper conflict motivating anti-Pride attacks: Somehow, what began as a symbol of belonging has been reinvented by the Christian right as the symbol of a political rebellion, one that must be crushed. You know what I want? I want a Sacred Heart of Jesus flag, because I have to look across the lagoon at the Pride flag for the next month, complained Martha-Ann Alito, the spouse of Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, caught in a secret audio recording made by a documentary filmmaker. I made a flag in my head, Martha-Ann went on. This is how I satisfy myself. What motivates Alitos disgust at the Pride flag is not so different from what may drive someone to set the same flag on fire. They certainly lay claim to the same power: to exclude and erase a vast, diverse group of people, down to the smallest symbol.
In the age of fever pitch UFO discourse, one group is urging the US president to declassify it all  and wants debate moderators to grill candidates on the topic.

The group, called the New Paradigm Institute, announced last week the launch of a social media campaign insisting moderators of the upcoming June 27 presidential debate hold both candidates' feet to the fire when asking UFO questions.

The NPI is encouraging like-minded seekers to lobby CNN, which is hosting the debate between President Joe Biden, presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump, and independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., to ask tough questions about whether or not they would release unredacted files about what the US government refers to as "unidentified anomalous phenomena" or UAPs for short.

"The next president of the United States will make critical decisions about UAP disclosure and government transparency," NPI chief counsel Daniel Sheehan said in the group's statement. "Its time for all presidential candidates...to commit to UFOs/UAP disclosure and transparency."

"Regardless of political affiliation," the attorney added, "the time has come to inject UAP into the political discourse of our elections."

Operating under the Santa Cruz, California-based Romero Institute legal nonprofit, the NPI lobbies Congress and the public to urge the disclosure of any documentation of UFOs or extraterrestrial life the government might have. By its own recounting, the organization says that the military, intelligence, and aerospace industrial complex has "information about UFO technology and nonhuman intelligent visitors held in secret from the Congress for 80 years."

"This initiative... is motivated by a desire to unite the human family and deconstruct the unjust social and economic structures on our planet, eliminate nuclear weapons, and restore our living biosystem as we take our place in a galactic civilization," the nonprofit's "About Me" page reads.

While it's certainly lofty  or, for nonbelievers, downright preposterous  the NPI's stated mission dovetails with disclosure trends that began early in Trump's presidency, when the New York Times published leaked Naval video of the so-called "Tic Tac" UFO.

In that video, which has been the basis of multiple UAP transparency reports and laws since its quiet publication in December 2017, a Tic Tac-shaped craft seems to be seen flying implausibly fast and erratically for any known aircraft. With it, a new age of UFO disclosure was launched  but per the NPI folks, the government hasn't told us nearly enough of the truth.

Aside from the #DisclosureDebate campaign, the NPI's more recent hits include its launch of an extraterrestrial studies program at the for-profit and definitively woo-woo Ubiquity University, as well as a statement trashing the recent report from the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), which the org slams as "misinformation." Whether those news items help or hinder the group's credibility remains, like what's actually being shown on those grainy military UFO videos, in the eye of the beholder.

All the same, it probably is a good idea to ask this election's presidential hopefuls if they'd declassify information about UFOs  especially given the kind of buck-wild answer RFK Jr. is likely to come up with.

More on UFO law: New Law Would Force Government to Declassify Every UFO Document
Canada hits Russia with new sanctions for Navalny's death, human rights violations

Canada imposed new sanctions against 13 Russian individuals over the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and Moscow's "continued gross and systematic violations of human rights," the Canadian government announced June 18.

Navalny, Putin's main political opponent, died on Feb. 16 in a penal colony in northern Russia, after being convicted in several fabricated criminal cases as part of the Kremlin's crackdown on dissent.

The new sanctions target high-level officials in Russia's investigative agency, penitentiary service, and police force who played a role in the abuse and death of Navalny.

"As we are living in a period of multiple interconnected crises, it is important to keep the focus on the efforts of Russians in their fight for basic rights and freedom," Canada's Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said.

"Today's sanctions further demonstrate a strong front against the Kremlin's continued gross violations of human rights and its suppression of Russian civil society and political opposition."

Joly reportedly spoke with Yulia Navalnaya, Navalny's widow, to share the sanctions announcement.

Canada recently introduced new Russian sanctions on June 13 during the Group of Seven (G7) Leaders Summit in Italy. The sanctions target 11 Russian individuals and 16 entities who have been purportedly engaged in activities that support Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The European Union on May 27 announced a new sanctions regime against Russia in connection with Navalny's death.

Read also: Ahead of his summit with North Koreas Kim, Putin promises theyll overcome sanctions together

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Fact checked by Nick BlackmerFact checked by Nick Blackmer





Cannabis-related hospitalizations rose among older adults in Toronto, Canada following the legalization of edibles and cannabis flower.

Older adults are susceptible to cannabis poisoning for a variety of reasons, including being more likely to take medications that can interact with marijuana.

Experts say you can reduce the risk of cannabis poisoning by learning about proper dosages.







Cannabis-related hospitalizations among older adults surged after Canada legalized the retail sale of marijuana, according to recent research.

A research letter published in JAMA Internal Medicine in May found that older adults living in Ontario made more trips to the emergency room for cannabis poisoning between October 2018 and December 2022 than they did in the years leading up to cannabis legalization in Canada.

During the eight-year study period, there were 2,322 emergency room visits among those 65 or older. Nearly 17% of people had also been drinking alcohol when they went to the emergency department, 38.5% had cancer, and 6.5% had dementia.

The data show that, compared to the number of cannabis poisoning hospitalizations between January 2015 and September 2018, ER trips among older adults doubled after cannabis flower was legalized in October 2018. The rate tripled after edibles became legal in January 2020.

This is the tip of the iceberg because were only capturing emergency department visits, lead author Nathan Stall MD, PhD, a geriatrician and general internal medicine provider at Sinai Health and assistant professor of medicine at the University of Toronto, told Health. Some people may not visit the emergency department or seek care at all.

For older adults, he added, cannabis poisoning is not a benign phenomenon.

Heres what you need to know about cannabis poisoning, whats behind the trend, and how you or your loved ones can lower the risk of a cannabis-related ER trip.

Jamie Grill / Getty Images

What Is Cannabis Poisoning?

Cannabis poisoningalso known as cannabis toxicity or marijuana poisoninglargely occurs when someone uses or ingests too much delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the main psychoactive component responsible for creating a high.

This is a chemical overdose or poisoning, Sherry Yafai, MD, board-certified emergency medicine physician at Providence Saint Johns Medical Center in Santa Monica, CA, told Health.

Symptoms of cannabis poisoning can vary, but Jamie Alan, PharmD, PhD, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University, told Health that they may include:

Anxiety or panic attacks

Nausea

Vomiting

Fast heart rate

Hallucinations

Depressive thoughts

Chest pain

Seizures (in rare cases)



Were also seeing an overlap in stroke-like symptoms, specifically with difficulty speaking, Yafai said.

Whats Behind the Increase?

The research letter didnt explore why more older adults were hospitalized for cannabis poisonings after marijuana legalization. But Diane Calello, MD, executive medical director of New Jersey Poison Information and Education System, told Health that medical issues are common after drugs are legalized.

Any time legalization is enacted or broadened, we see more use of these products, she said. In particular, legalization of edible products drives an increased use in people who might not otherwise use cannabis because it takes away the need to smoke in order to get high.

Older adults may ingest cannabis by accident (mistake a THC gummy for candy, for example) or take cannabis intentionally, per the research letter. They are susceptible to cannabis poisoning for a variety of reasons, including being more likely to take medications that may interact with marijuana and having more conditionschronic pain or dementia, for examplethat could lead to an excess of marijuana use.

Many cannabis products also lack age-specific dosing instructions. Yafai sees this as a big issueparticularly in regard to ediblesbecause age and underlying health conditions can influence what's considered a safe dosage.

Theres this step toward the public being told that cannabis and hemp are good for youthat its good for dementia, Parkinsons disease, and sleep, and appropriately so, Yafai said. But the problem is that nobody is talking about the dose.

An 85-year-old who has never used THC before and takes a 10 milligram THC gummythere is a high likelihood it will land them in the emergency room, she added.

Yafai pointed out that the only guidance people receive about THC dosingif any at allis from dispensary employees. They are not trained in medicine, and they dont know what other medications youre on, she said.

Some older adults who have only smoked cannabis in the past, which causes a quick high, may also do what Stall calls dose stacking, where they take one edible and then take another within a few minutes because they dont yet feel the effects.

Have ER Visits Among Older Adults Climbed in the U.S., Too?

Yafai said that since marijuana was legalized in California in 2016, theres been an uptick in older adults going to the emergency room. A study published in 2023 backs this up, finding that cannabis-related emergency room visits among Californians older than 65 increased by over 1,800% between 2005 and 2019.

The research letters findings are pretty consistent with what were seeing in reality, Yafai said. We are seeing a small but interesting rise in older adults coming into the emergency department with accidental THC overdose.

The trend isnt confined to California, according to Diane Calello, MD., medical and executive director of New Jersey Poison Information and Education System and associate professor of emergency medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. It has been repeatedly shown that in states where legalization is enacted, there is an increase in adult cannabis use and visits for cannabis poisoning to emergency departments, she told Health.

How to Lower the Risk of Cannabis Poisoning

If youre interested in using cannabis, Yafai suggests talking to a doctor about it. If you dont feel comfortable talking to your primary care physician, she recommends finding a cannabis doctor or nurse in your area who can provide personalized guidance. The Society of Cannabis Clinicians has an online database that allows you to search for providers by zip code.

If you do know your proper dosage, Alan suggests making sure to check and double-check your dose of edibles to be safe.

Anyone in the U.S. who thinks they are experiencing symptoms of cannabis poisoning should contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222.

Of course, if you feel like youre not able to speak or you have motor difficulties, absolutely get yourself to an emergency department or call 911, Yafai said.

The cannabis-related hospitalizations in Canada signal a wake-up call, she said. Its time for doctors and healthcare providers to understand that we also bear responsibility in educating patients, she said. We really want to encourage, if not require, cannabis education.

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Read the original article on Health.com.
(Bloomberg) -- The Carter Center will deploy a team to observe Venezuelas elections next month after the exclusion of European Union observers led to concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Atlanta-based organization on Wednesday accepted an invitation that Venezuelas electoral authority extended in March, according to Jennie Lincoln, its principal adviser for Latin America and the Caribbean.

President Nicolas Maduro is seeking a third consecutive term in the July 28 vote after the government banned his biggest rival, Maria Corina Machado, from running. The government said in May that it would bar EU monitors after the group declined to lift all sanctions on government officials.

The governments of Colombia and Brazil later said they also wouldnt send missions to monitor the vote.

The National Electoral Council didnt reply to a request for comment.

The groups technical mission is expected to arrive on June 29 to observe the process, which includes assessing the candidates campaigns and the organizing of voting centers, among other aspects, Lincoln said.

The announcement will likely be seen as positive news, Barclays analysts Alejandro Arreaza and Jason Keene wrote in a note to clients. This should contribute to the transparency of the process, and could also play a critical role in containing the risk of potential manipulation, they said.

The opposition has sought credible international observers as previous Venezuelan elections have been marred by accusations of fraud and government interference. After Machado was sidelined, the group nominated Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, a relatively unknown former diplomat, who has been campaigning in her place.

Government Repression

Repression from the Maduro government has increased in the days leading up to the official start of the campaign on July 4. The government recently arrested four activists and journalists linked to the opposition and barred various mayors from provincial cities where the opposition has been rallying.

The Carter Center last oversaw regional Venezuela elections in 2021, after which it found evidence of political interference at the electoral council and concluded the vote didnt meet basic international standards for democratic elections.

The nonprofit Carter Center, founded by former US President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn, monitors elections worldwide, among other endeavors such as combating diseases.

(Updates to include Barclays analysts comments in sixth paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
By Maya Kaneko, KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 23:38 | World, All

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty in Pyongyang on Wednesday, including a clause covering mutual assistance in case of aggression against either country, Russian media said, underscoring their increasingly close military cooperation.

Kim told a joint press conference following his talks with Putin that bilateral relations have reached "a new high level of alliance" while describing the pact as "purely peaceful and defensive," according to Russian media reports.

Putin was quoted by Tass news agency as saying Russia "does not rule out developing military and technical cooperation" with North Korea in accordance with the newly signed pact.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shake hands ahead of their talks in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024. (Kremlin Pool Photo/AP/Kyodo)

The signing of the treaty, which also covers cooperation in a wide range of areas, including politics and the economy, came as enhanced military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang have raised concerns among Western nations amid Russia's war against Ukraine and North Korea's missile development.

Putin also said the U.N. sanctions regime against North Korea over its missile and nuclear development programs should be reviewed, Tass reported.

"We will continue to oppose the practice of sanctions strangulation as a tool that the West is accustomed to using to maintain its hegemony in politics, economy and other spheres," he was quoted as saying.

Western countries have imposed sanctions on Russia in response to the invasion of Ukraine it launched in February 2022, while North Korea is under U.N. sanctions for its nuclear and missile development programs.

The Russian leader, on his first visit to the Asian country in 24 years, expressed his appreciation for North Korea's "consistent and unwavering support" for Russia's policies concerning its war against Ukraine, Tass reported.

It said Kim promised at the talks North Korea's "full support and solidarity" with Russia over the invasion, framing it as "protecting sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity." He also praised Moscow's role in "preserving global strategic stability and balance."

Pyongyang has been accused of providing arms to Moscow to aid its aggression. Ukraine said in January that Moscow has used North Korean KN-23 ballistic missiles in its invasion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (2nd from L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (2nd from R) hold talks in Pyongyang in June 19, 2024. (Kremlin Pool Photo/AP/Kyodo)

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won Sik has recently revealed some 4.8 million artillery shells and several dozen ballistic missiles were estimated to have been sent to Russia from North Korea.

Moscow is suspected of assisting and guiding North Korea in its bid to launch military spy satellites. In May, Pyongyang failed to put a reconnaissance satellite into orbit following a successful attempt in November last year but it aims to launch three more this year.

The new document, which Putin said will serve as the "basis for our relations in the long term," replaces past bilateral accords, including the Treaty of Friendship and Good-Neighborhood Cooperation of 2000, according to Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov.

A 1961 treaty of friendship and mutual assistance between what was then the Soviet Union and North Korea stipulated that if one country came under armed attack, the other would provide military support. The pact became invalid following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991.

The North Korean leader pledged to strengthen strategic cooperation with Moscow, adding he sees bilateral relations as entering a "period of new prosperity," according to Tass.

Putin noted Russia has been fighting against "decades of hegemony and imperialist policies" imposed by the United States and its allies. The Russian leader expressed hope that his next meeting with Kim will be held in Moscow, the news agency said.

Before the summit meeting, an official welcoming ceremony for Putin was held at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang. Earlier in the day, Kim welcomed the Russian president at a Pyongyang airport, where they shook hands and hugged.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (front L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un hug each other at Pyongyang International Airport on June 19, 2024. (KNS/Kyodo)

The North Korean leader expressed his joy and gladness to see Putin again since their last meeting in Russia's Far East last September, the official Korean Central News Agency said.

After being presented with a bouquet, Putin thanked Kim for coming to the airport. The North Korean leader personally guided his Russian counterpart to his accommodation while they had a friendly chat, KCNA said.

KCNA said Putin's visit is "of great importance in reliably promoting the strategic and future-oriented development" of bilateral relations, "powerfully propelling the cause of building a powerful country, a desire common to the peoples" of North Korea and Russia.

In September last year, Putin met Kim at the Vostochny Cosmodrome space launch center in the Russian Far East. At the time, Kim invited Putin to visit his country, according to KCNA.

Related coverage:

Putin makes 1st visit to North Korea in 24 years for talks with Kim

Putin to make 2-day visit to North Korea from June 18 for talks with Kim

Vast majority of nations at Swiss summit back Ukraine peace plans
In Catalonias elections, held on 12 May, pro-independence parties lost the parliamentary majority that had allowed them to govern since 2015. It was their first electoral defeat in decades.

They lost to the Socialists Party of Catalonia (PSC, Partit dels Socialistes de Catalunya), the Catalan wing of Spains ruling PSOE, with former health minister Salvador Illa expected to take over as president by the end of August.

This shift in public opinion begs the twin questions of whether the recent push for Catalan independence (known as the proces) has finally ended, and whether the electoral defeat of pro-independence parties means that the Catalan independence movement itself has reached an end.

A decade-long push for independence

While the Catalan independence movement dates back centuries, the proces is the name given to the surge of political support for this goal over the last 14 years or so. Its origins can be traced back to July 2010, when a Spanish Constitutional Court ruling annulled and amended some essential aspects of the new Statute of Autonomy of Catalonia, which the Catalan people had previously backed in a June 2006 referendum.

Up to then, pro-independence parties had taken only a minority of the vote share (less than 20%), and their influence on Catalan politics was limited. However, from 2010 onwards, support for them grew exponentially, reaching a peak of 48% in the 2015 elections.

This new panorama marked the beginning of a profound change in the Catalan political system, as the then dominant moderate alliance Convergence and Union (CiU) began to lose electoral ground. The alliance broke up altogether when one of its member parties, Convergence (Convergencia), was forced to adopt a stronger pro-independence stance after losing 10 seats in the 2012 elections, forming a new alliance with the pro-independence Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC, Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya).

The percentage of vote share according to political party in Catalan elections, 2010-2024. Pro-independence parties are highlighted in pink, and national parties in blue. Parties highlighted in green are regional parties that are not pro-independence. Author's own, data from Parliament of Catalonia

October 2017  a timeline of the proces

With hardline pro-independence leader Carles Puigdemont at the helm, the 2015 electoral term saw independence take priority on Catalonias political agenda.

At the height of the proces (September-October 2017), the Catalan Parliament approved the Llei de referendum d'autodeterminacio (Law on the Referendum on Self Determination) and the Llei de transitorietat juridica i fundacional de la Republica (Law on the Legal and Foundational Transition of the Republic) on 6 and 8 September, respectively. Both aimed to legally pave the way for Catalonia to break away from Spain.

On 20 September, the Guardia Civil searched various Catalan Government offices. This provoked an immediate reaction from the Catalan public, who gathered outside the gates of the regions Ministry of Economy.

Days later, the main civilian leaders of the pro-independence movement  Jordi Sanchez and Jordi Cuixart  were charged with the crime of sedition.

On 1 October 2017, the now infamous referendum on self determination in Catalonia was held, with just over two million votes cast. Throughout the day there were multiple incidents of serious violence, as police used excessive force to seize ballot boxes and prevent voting.

Leer mas: Spanish government crushes Catalan independence dreams  at a high price

On 27 October, the Catalan Parliament passed the declaration of Catalan independence. On the same day, Spanish prime minister Mariano Rajoy, with prior authorisation from the Senate, enacted Article 155 of the Constitution, immediately calling a snap election in the region.

On 29 October, several members of the Catalan government fled to Belgium. Shortly afterwards, the pro-independence leaders who remained in Catalonia were arrested and charged with the crimes of rebellion, sedition and embezzlement.

The rise of the Socialists Party of Catalonia

The 2024 elections have marked a radical shift in Catalonias political landscape. The PSC won by a comfortable margin, while support for pro-independence parties plummeted  in the 2015, 2017 and 2021 elections, they won absolute majorities of more than 70 MPs, but in 2024 they achieved a combined total of just 59 MPs.

So, does this mean the proces has come to an end?

Understood as a political movement, with specific actors pursuing the singular, unilateral goal of Catalan independence, the proces has indeed ended. More generally, it has ceased to be a political priority  continued confrontation with the Spanish state has been unproductive for Catalonia and politically disruptive for Spain. Indeed, Spains far right owes much of its success to a harsh rhetoric of opposition to Catalan independence, including proposals to ban separatist parties outright.

Dialogue and amnesty

The pardons granted to Catalan separatists through the recently enacted Amnesty Law have reduced tensions and made it possible to channel conflict off the streets and back into the political arena.

In recent years, Catalonias current president Pere Aragones, of ERC, has pursued a pragmatic approach of opening up channels of communication and negotiation between regional and national governments. Specific mechanisms have been set up to to normalise political relations between Catalonia and Spain: the roundtable for dialogue between the Spanish and Catalan Generalitat, and the Generalitat-State Bilateral Commission.

Leer mas: The Spanish amnesty law for Catalonia separatists, explained

Pro-independence politics isnt going anywhere

While the proces may be drawing to a close, the electoral defeat suffered by pro-independence parties in no way spells the end of the Catalan independence movement. As the table beneath shows, since the 2015 elections, pro-independence groupings have received a higher vote share than national, constitutionalist parties. The most recent elections  where pro-indepdendence parties garnered 39.4% of the vote share  are the only exception.

Vote share for pro-independence versus national Spanish political parties. Percentages for pro-independence and national parties expressed as a proportion of total votes cast, abstention as a proportion of total eligible voters. Author's own

Political fatigue and apathy among part of the Catalan electorate in the 2021 and 2024 elections has been reflected in a sharp increase in abstention, which has particularly affected pro-independence parties.

While the proces may have ended, the independence movement is still very much alive and kicking  support for independence has dropped, but even at its current low ebb it has the backing of 42% of Catalonias population. This ingrained, structural phenomenon is unlikely to disappear any time soon, but it can be redirected into productive dialogue and negotiation.

Este articulo fue publicado originalmente en The Conversation, un sitio de noticias sin fines de lucro dedicado a compartir ideas de expertos academicos.

Lee mas:



Victor Climent Sanjuan no recibe salario, ni ejerce labores de consultoria, ni posee acciones, ni recibe financiacion de ninguna compania u organizacion que pueda obtener beneficio de este articulo, y ha declarado carecer de vinculos relevantes mas alla del cargo academico citado.
Cause of death released for girl, 15, who died in San Francisco driveway

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  A cause of death was released for a 15-year-old Bay Point girl who died in the driveway of a strangers San Francisco home on Lobos Street.

Jazmin Pellegrini ran away from her familys Bay Point home on April 17. Her loved ones frantically searched for her and alerted the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office. Just three days later, this poor child was abandoned by whoever she was with, and left to die. She could have been saved, but strangers ignored her, her family wrote.

The San Francisco chief medical examiners office released an autopsy report this week revealing Jazmins cause of death, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. She died from a toxic combination of drugs including fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, the autopsy found.

Jazmin Pellegrini (Image via GoFundMe)

Jazmins mother wants investigators to find out what happened between the time her daughter ran away and when she died. Jazmin did not have any money, nor a cellphone, when she left Bay Point. Who provided a minor child with a lethal dose of fentanyl, cocaine, and meth in San Francisco?

A tragedy so unreal and impossible to comprehend has taken place, with so many unanswered questions. The truth must be discovered, systemic errors must be corrected, perpetrators must be punished, the girls mother, Marta Barany, wrote.

Jazmin Pellegrini (Image via GoFundMe)

Jazmin Pellegrini was a beautiful, 15-year-old girl full of love, curiosity, and enthusiasm, her mother wrote. Jazmin struggled with PTSD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. When her family sought help, Jazmin suffered from medical providers alleged negligence and mistreatment, according to Barany.

The girl was released from a Contra Costa County hospitals psychiatric unit in Martinez on the night of April 17. Her mother urged the hospital to keep her daughter longer so she could be in a safe place with health professionals and security. The staff refused, Jazmins aunt told KRON4.

The aunt, Ametiszt Hajdu, said, Her mom knew she wasnt well, she could always tell just by looking in her eyes. When they took her home, she wasnt talking, wasnt smiling. She was not OK.

During Jazmins time in county psychiatric hospitals over the past two years, she became dependent on medications, according to her family.

Jazmin Pellegrini (Image courtesy GoFundMe)

Barany wrote, Jazmin was not a drug addict, but she became dependent on substances during her hospitalization. The negligent medical establishments heavily medicated her. They failed to provide her any treatment beyond emergency drugs, often consisting of four emergency shots a day.

The girls short life is an tragic example of failures in the mental health care system for teenagers, family members said. Her family had been fighting alongside to get her the long-term care she desperately needed, but the system never came through for Jazmin, Barany wrote.

San Francisco will prosecute fatal overdose cases as murders, DA says

Jazmins mother created a GoFundMe page, We Want The Truth for Jazmin Pellegrini, dedicated to finding gaps in hospital psych facilities, social services, and child protective services.

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.
UPDATE: TUESDAY 6/18/2024 7:17 p.m.

(SOUTHERN COLORADO)  The Custer County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) found the suspect involved in a burglary on Friday, June 14 thanks to social media.

CCSO published an update on Facebook on Tuesday, June 18 that the suspect had been identified due to a previous post made the same day looking for the burglar.

According to the Sheriffs Office, the suspect was captured after a brief vehicle pursuit in a neighboring county.CCSO said a Custer deputy was en route to take him into custody and book him on local charges.

ORIGINAL STORY: CCSO seeks suspect and vehicle involved in burglary

TUESDAY 6/18/2024 5:16 p.m.

The Custer County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) is asking the community for assistance in identifying a burglary suspect.

The residential burglary happened in Westcliffe, in Southeast Custer County on Friday, June 14. The burglary happened in the San Isabel area.

CCSO is looking for the suspect and their vehicle. The vehicle appears to be a Buick Lacrosse, which the Sheriffs Office says may be a 2007 model.

Courtesy: Custer County Sheriffs Office

CCSO is also seeking information on the burglary suspect pictured above. If you have any information, call (719)-983-2270, incident number 2024-00030626.

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.
CDC Warns About Having Bearded Dragons as Pets After Salmonella Outbreak

The warning is especially for families with kids under 5.

GettyImages/Roman Mykhalchuk

Fact checked by Sarah ScottFact checked by Sarah Scott

Pets are considered beloved family members. In fact, Pew Research showed more than half (51%) of people in the U.S. considered pets as much of a part of their families as humans. Cats and dogs make up the majority of companion animals, and adults and children alike may enjoy snuggle sessions with these furry friends.

However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns against cuddlingand keepinganother type of pet: bearded dragons. The agency issued a warning about salmonella linked to these reptiles on June 14, 2024.

The CDC report traced 15 cases of salmonella in nine different states to bearded dragons. Four people have been hospitalized, but no deaths have been reported. The majority of cases (60%) were in children under 5.

Bearded dragons can carry salmonella in their droppings, explains William Slemp, DO, a North Carolina-based pediatrician at Novant Health Forsyth Pediatrics. These droppings can cause the pet to have salmonella on their skin or in their environment.

The report issued a reminder that bearded dragons arent recommended as pets for people younger than 5, 65 and older, and immunocompromised because they are most at risk for serious illness.

Health care providers explain the report, how salmonella can get from a bearded dragon to a human, symptoms, and best practices for people with family pets.

How Bearded Dragons Spread Salmonella

Its normal for bearded dragons to have salmonella.

Like most reptiles, bearded dragons carry a bacteria called salmonella on their skin, says Linda Yancey, MD, an infectious disease expert with the Memorial Hermann Health System in Houston. This is normal for them in the same way that it is normal for humans to have a bacteria called staphylococcus on our skin.

Dr. Yancey says that because salmonella is normal, it cant be washed off and can also spread to humans. Those who touch bearded dragons or their environment can get the germ on their skin, Dr. Slemp says. If they are not careful, the germ can be transferred to food or their mouth when they touch their mouth or face.

The skin isnt the only way it can spread.

People can get salmonella from bearded dragons through contact with the reptile's feces or surfaces contaminated by feces, says Daniel Ganjian, MD, FAAP, a California-based board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint Johns Health Center.

Salmonella Symptoms and When To Seek Care

Salmonella can prompt gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort. Dr. Slemp shares telltale signs include:

Fever

Diarrhea

Stomach cramping

Symptoms start between six hours and six days after ingesting the bacterial, Dr. Slemp says. Typically, symptoms resolve in four to seven days."

Most symptoms will resolve after an infection. "Though there can be other complications like reactive arthritis, which can cause joint pain, eye irritation, and painful urination that can linger for longer and require treatment," adds Dr. Slemp.

While people younger than 5, older than 65, and immunocompromised are more at risk for severe sickness, no one is immune. Some healthy people can end up in the hospital very sick, though, as some strains can infect urine, blood, joints, or the nervous system, causing a severe illness, Dr. Slemp says.

If in doubt, call a health care provider, especially if you care for young children experiencing salmonella signs.

If your child experiences these symptoms, contact a health care provider, Dr. Ganjian says. Salmonella can be serious, especially for young children.

Other Animals That Can Carry Disease

While the current report specifies bearded dragons, other animals can make children sick, especially those under 5. Understanding the risks can help you make the most informed decisions about the best pet for your family.

Reptiles

Dr. Yancey shares that all reptiles, not just bearded dragons, can carry salmonella. Additionally, reptiles can carry mycobacteriosis, a bacteria linked to soft tissue lesions, joint and bone infections, and lung disease in humans. As with salmonella, children, adults 65 and above, and immunocompromised are most at risk.

Rodents

Gerbils are also common household (and classroom) pets. But they, and other rodents, can carry bacteria. Gerbils and other rodents can carry a bacteria called lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus that can cause meningitis, Dr. Yancey says.

The CDC notes that rodents can also carry bacteria that can trigger leptospirosis, which is spread through pee and can cause GI discomfort and fever, among other symptoms.

Birds

While rare, getting sick from bird bites and scratches is possible.

Birds can carry a bacteria called Chlamydia psittaci that causes a rare form of pneumonia, Dr. Yancey says.

The CDC says other potential infections spread through pet birds include histoplasmosis and psittacosis, and young children and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk for serious illness.

Can Dogs or Cats Get Kids Sick?

Dogs and cats are the most commonly kept pets, but they can also cause illness. The most common infections from cats and dogs are skin infections after being bitten, Dr. Yancey says.

What are the concerns?

Dogs carry a bacteria called Capnocytophaga canimorsus that can cause bloodstream infections in people with weak immune systems, Dr. Yancey says. Cats carry a bacteria called Bartonella henselae that causes a disease called cat scratch fever that is transmitted through bites, mostly from kittens.

Tips To Keep Kids Safe Around Animals

Whether youre keeping animals as pets or heading to a petting zoo, a few simple measures can keep everyone safe.

Dr. Yancey advises people to:

Wash hands after handling any animal

Keep the animal away from areas where young children crawl

Do not let animals lick open wounds

Keep animals on leashes outside the home

Avoid using your hands to separate fighting animals

Dr. Ganjian emphasizes the importance of disposing of pet waste properly and not allowing young children near it (or giving them this responsibility as a chore).

Finally, like people, pets require regular doctors appointments.

Take your animals to the vet regularly to ensure that they are healthy and not inadvertently causing sickness in the home, Dr. Slemp says.



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Read the original article on Parents.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  From San Marcos to Bastrop, production studios are in the works across Central Texas.

It comes at a time when the Golden Globe-nominated series, 1923, plans to use Austin as its base for production while filming throughout the state.

A spokesperson for California-based production company 101 Studios earlier this month confirmed to the Austin Business Journal that the Paramount Plus show would be shooting at ATX Film Studios.

Taylor Sheridans 1923 could inject nearly $52M into area economy, city of Austin says

From left: Jennifer Ehle, James Badge Dale, Brian Geraghty, Marley Shelton, Helen Mirren, Harrison Ford, Darren Mann, Sebastian Roche, Aminah Nieves, Michelle Randolph, Kerry OMalley, and Timothy Dalton arrive at the Los Angeles premiere of 1923, Friday, Dec. 2, 2022, at Hollywood American Legion Post 43. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

The show is a prequel to Yellowstone and stars Helen Mirren, Harrison Ford, Brandon Sklenar and others.

Austin has been growing as a film and creative industry Mecca. Matthew Schmidt, City of Austin Economic Development Department

Economic impact

The City of Austin expects the production to contribute millions of dollars and hundreds of jobs to the area.

$52 million of expected investment and economic impact into the Austin area, said City of Austin Economic Development Department Program Manager Matthew Schmidt.

Along with that, Schmidt said there will be about 200 jobs directly for the production and 152 indirect jobs.

The production will require an estimated 100 direct hire jobs for the local crew and 100 direct

hire jobs for Austinite cast and extras, according to the city.

The economic impact is broken down as follows:

$15,000,000 in salaries for direct jobs

$15,006,107 in salaries for indirect jobs

$21,855,534 in spending

Thats hotel stays, spending at restaurants and just leisure activities in the area, Schmidt said.

Incentives for the production company

Last month, Austin City Council approved up to $82,500 in incentives for the production company behind the project.

Those funds are part of the Austin Creative Content Incentive Program.

Schmidt said the program provides a small stipend, which actually goes towards the wages that theyre paying the local residents in Austin as well

RELATED COVERAGE: Texas legislature passes several bills to increase film production in the state

It offers the following incentives to qualifying film and television productions:

0.50% of wages paid to local residents (Austin Metro Area)

0.25% of the project is produced by Austin-based companies or promotes Austin

They have to be a project that is awarded through the Texas Moving Image Incentive Program to initially be eligible for our programs, Schmidt said.

Austin is a great destination for production

Director of the Austin Film Commission Brian Gannon said the citys production capabilities are constantly growing.

We have a crew base. So when you hire folks to work on your production, they know what theyre doing, Gannon said.

On top of the local workforce, Gannon said the citys location positions it as a great place to film.

Youve got all the small towns in the communities around Austin that could play for a lot of different periods, Gannon said. Austin itself, all the neighborhoods were developed at different times. So aesthetically, weve got a ton of different looks just right here within the city limits.

Gannon said for the past 50 years, Austin has been a destination for film and television production.

We have volume stages in town. You know, we have 2,000 square foot studios, and we have 200,000 square foot studios, Gannon said. So whatever comes in, we can kind of handle right here in Austin.

Production studios in the works

A major film studio project in Bastrop County is on track to open in late 2025, the studio CEO said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Bastrop film studios expected to fully open in 2025

Alton Butler, CEO and owner of Line 204, said the first studios could be ready before the end of 2024, but the full project is expected to finish in late 2025.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: San Marcos to get new film studio

A second film studio development is planned in San Marcos. The $267 million project will have film and virtual production studios, according to the city in 2022.

Were in an area where the industry is starting to look for places outside of the usual you know, your Los Angeles or New York. All the pieces are aligning for Texas. I think the industry is looking for the next big new market. Jacob Cowan, Hill Country Studios Chief Marketing Officer

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.
CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA)  With only two weeks until the Fourth of July, police departments and municipal governments in Central Illinois are again reminding the community on the legality and danger of fireworks in their cities.

Unless one is a professionally licensed pyrotechnic, it is illegal for people in Illinois to have or use fireworks that shoot into their air and/or explode. There are, however, some fireworks that are legal like sparklers, snakes, party poppers and smoke bombs.

The LeRoy Police Department focused on the legal danger of fireworks, noting that a group of people last year were issued tickets for violating city ordinance. This year, the LeRoy City Council reaffirmed that fireworks in the city are illegal and their also raised the fine to $750 for an ordinance violation.

These are the most dangerous fireworks in the U.S.

The Champaign Police Department highlighted the physical danger of fireworks in their warning. In 2016, improper use of sparklers caused a major three-alarm fire at the Town Center Apartment Complex.

In addition, Champaign Police warned that use of fireworks in neighborhoods could cause anxiety for veterans and others suffering from PTSD and could also frighten pets and other wild animals.

The two police departments, along with the City of Champaign municipal government, advised that people leave the fireworks to the professionals and attend a display sanctioned by the city or village where it is happening.

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.
A series of trenches like the proposed site of the Bridge View development in Cedar Point, NC. The trenches were dug by an archaeological consultant who found thousands of artifacts, including 11 human burial sites, on 1.13 acres of the 21-acre development.

A controversial bill that would have allowed developers to build on archaeological sites in some environmentally sensitive coastal areas was overhauled Wednesday.

Language that would have allowed builders to disturb archaeological resources in the course of development in the coastal Areas of Environmental Concern was removed from House Bill 385 entirely. After being introduced earlier this month, that original proposal met widespread opposition from Native Americans in North Carolina and the states Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Under the changes proposed by Sen. Norm Sanderson, a Pamlico County Republican, the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources would need to inform potential purchasers of land in those areas whether there is a potentially significant archaeological site on the property. DNCR would also need to seek funding from state, federal or private sources to purchase archaeological or historically significant sites it identifies in those areas.

The idea to me is, to save all we can and not have to find it during development, Sanderson told The News & Observer.

The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources still harbors concerns about the updated language, Schorr Johnson, a department spokesman, said in a statement.

While an improvement from the original proposal, the Office of State Archaeology already provides information to property owners and prospective property owners about archaeological resources on their property. The new language attempts to codify that practice while also undermining archaeological protections. We look forward to continuing to work with the legislature on this proposal, Johnson said.

Central to the original debate was a 21-acre portion of the Bridge View development in Cedar Point, a Carteret County community bordering Bogue Banks near the eastern shore of the White Oak River. In the case of Bridge View, development was halted on the sound-side portion of the site before it could begin.

As part of the standard Coastal Area Management Act permit review process, the Office of State Archaeology recommended further exploration because of two sites that were discovered in the area in the 1970s. A survey of 16 trenches covering a total of 1.3 acres of the site found more than 2,000 artifacts, including 11 different human burial sites.

The original provision allowing development to incidentally disturb archaeological sites was included in one of nine amendments to HB 385 introduced at a June 5 meeting of the Senates Agriculture, Energy and Environment committee. At the time, Sen. Michael Lazzara, an Onslow County Republican, said the Bridge View developers had already spent hundreds of thousands conducting surveys on the Carteret County site.

Under the revised legislation, developers like Bridge Views Cedar Point Developers, LLC, would be able to ask the Office of State Archaeology whether it believes there are culturally sensitive sites on the land during the purchase process. If the Office of State Archaeology said it doesnt know of an issue with a site, it wouldnt be able to restrict development for a period of three years.

If a developer uncovers an archaeological site while working on a site, Sanderson added, they would still need to pause all activity under existing state law.

Im 25% Native American myself, and I didnt do this to try to destroy burial grounds, Sanderson said.

The changes wouldnt immediately help the developers behind Bridge View, Sanderson added. While the funding provision seems to offer a way for them to offload the 21-acre site in question, the legislation doesnt include state money that could be used to purchase it or other archaeologically important land.

If there is a budget, were not going to go back and add that right now. And so that would have to be a future endeavor to put some money in a fund to begin to be able to draw off of it, Sanderson said.

The Judiciary Committee did not immediately vote on the amendments but could do so Thursday or next Tuesday, said Sen. Danny Britt, a Robeson County Republican and the committees chairman.

This story was produced with financial support from the Hartfield Foundation and Green South Foundation, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners, as part of an independent journalism fellowship program. The N&O maintains full editorial control of the work. If you would like to help support local journalism, please consider signing up for a digital subscription, which you can do here.
East Ramapo and Chappaqua voters passed re-jiggered budget plans Tuesday in the only two districts in the Lower Hudson Valley to see 2024-2025 budget plans rejected in May.

Chappaqua voters passed a $140.7 million budget, with a 1.81% tax levy increase, by 1,234-281, according to unofficial results. The district in May had attempted to win support for a $141.8 million spending plan that would have hiked the tax levy 2.99%, breaking the district's property-tax levy cap and requiring a 60% "supermajority" to vote yes. Instead, the budget plan got only 40% support.

In East Ramapo, the re-vote went through with 1,245 voting yes and 1,082 voting no, according to unofficial results accepted by the school board a little past midnight.

Residents from Ward 4 cast their ballots for the re-vote of the East Ramapo School District budget at Chestnut Ridge Middle School June 18, 2024.

East Ramapo's original and revised budget plans set spending at $331 million, and tapped reserve funds to make ends meet.

May's rejected plan had sought a 1.99% tax levy hike. The school board then proposed a tax levy increase of 1% in June, tapping more reserves to make up the difference.

A voter casts her ballot in the Chappaqua school budget re-vote at Horace Greeley High School June 18, 2024.

Even a 1% tax levy increase was a big ask in East Ramapo, where voters have over the past decade rejected any budget that builds in a tax levy increase.

East Ramapo: Low resources, high tensions

Repeated rejections of budget plans have left East Ramapo's funding out of balance with growing public- and private-school populations' needs. Community tensions continue to grow, with hundreds of public-school families attending recent school board meetings to demand an investment in their kids' education.

Residents from Ward 4 cast their ballots for the re-vote of the East Ramapo School District budget at Chestnut Ridge Middle School June 18, 2024.

Some 96% of about 10,500 public-school students in East Ramapo are children of color. More than half are English language learners. About 14.8% of East Ramapo's public school students are considered homeless, a larger percentage than in New York City schools or any other district in the Lower Hudson Valley.

Fiscal oversight: NY Regents call on Legislature to return and approve East Ramapo control board

Another 30,000-plus kids who live within district boundaries attend private schools, mostly yeshivas that serve the Hasidic and Orthodox Jewish community.

The majority of school board members are men who are seen in the public school community as favoring yeshiva students' needs. The cost, critics say, is a public-education system starved of resources and stripped of education quality.

Even with Tuesday's approval, district and state officials have repeatedly warned that the district faces a "fiscal cliff" and its dwindling credit rating has hampered needed borrowing. Costs are increasing, especially for the district's complex transportation system that is responsible for getting kids to 14 public schools and hundreds of private schools.

Public-school test scores are among the lowest in the state.

The district will be without a superintendent by month's end after the school board failed to renew Superintendent Clarence Ellis' contract.

Chappaqua: Respect tax cap

Chappaqua's revised budget proposal axed plans to add three school resource officers.

District officials identified the planned addition of three SROs, which would have doubled the number of specially trained police officers in Chappaqua schools, as one reason their initial budget plan was rejected by voters.

Chappaqua: Revised school budget plan stays within cap, walks back increase in police

Some board members said they believed there was earlier support for more SROs in the schools, citing feedback the district had received over the last 18 months. But after the vote, there was pushback against adding SROs.

A sign for the Chappaqua school budget re-vote seen outside Horace Greeley High School June 18, 2024.

"Some people wanted SROs but didn't want to go over the tax cap to get them. Some people just didn't want to go over the tax cap at all for any reason. And some people just didn't want SROs at all," board member Alissa Dorfman said during a recent school board meeting.

One more election to go

There is still one more school election to be held in the Lower Hudson Valley.

The Rye Neck school district last month saw a tie between two candidates running for a second open seat on the school board. Halli Gatenio and Martin OReilly each got 429 votes.

So the school board has scheduled a runoff election for July 1. Voting will take place from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the the middle school/high school community room.

"The Board appreciates our communitys understanding as we manage the unprecedented circumstances dictated by the tie vote; we also appreciate the patience of the two candidates," the board said in a statement.

Staff writer Diana Dombrowski contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: East Ramapo and Chappaqua schools budget vote results
Officials of the foreign policy and defense agencies of China and South Korea had a meeting in Seoul in the 2+2 format.

Azernews reports that the delegations were headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun from the South Korean side, and by his colleague Sun Weidon from the Chinese side. The meeting, which was attended by Lee Sung-bom, director general of the international policy department of the South Korean Ministry of Defense, and Jan Baochu, deputy director of the international military cooperation office of the Chinese Central Military Council, took place within the framework of efforts to stabilize the relations between the two countries. The statement of the South Korean Foreign Ministry before the meeting states that bilateral relations, the situation on the Korean Peninsula, and issues of mutual interest will be discussed at the meeting in the 2+2 format.

It is noteworthy that the Seoul-Beijing security and diplomacy dialogue coincides with the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to North Korea.

"Conducting dialogue in this format is a message to North Korea that China will not support Pyongyang's attempts to create a trilateral bloc with Beijing and Moscow," said Kang Joon-young, a professor of international relations at Hankuk University.

Commentators believe that Seoul is urging China to play a more constructive role in the North Korean issue with the 2+2 format dialogue.

It should be noted that the agreement on the organization of the dialogue in the 2+2 format was reached at the meeting of South Korean President Yun Seok-yol with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang held in May.




KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 22:46 | World, All

Philippine military demanded Wednesday that China return the firearms it seized from Filipino soldiers in what it described as an act of piracy two days earlier near a disputed shoal in the South China Sea.

It said Chinese Coast Guard personnel on Monday took away seven disassembled rifles contained in gun cases that were on multiple inflatable boats of Philippine Navy tasked to send supplies to a grounded navy vessel in the Second Thomas Shoal.

Military chief Gen. Romeo Brawner insisted China pay for the damage its coast guard personnel have caused, explaining that they destroyed and seized some of the Philippine boats' equipment as well as the Filipino soldiers' cellphones.

"This is piracy...because they boarded our boats illegally (and) got our equipment," Brawner said, adding that the Filipino soldiers exercised restraint despite the aggressive actions because the Philippines does not want war with China.

Meanwhile, the military said only one Philippine navy personnel was injured, with his finger cut off after the boat he was on was rammed by a Chinese boat. This contradicts local media reports that earlier cited unnamed sources saying seven were injured.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters Wednesday that his country's coast guard did not take direct measures against the Philippine personnel, stressing they deliberately intruded into the waters within China's territory.

The Philippines has regularly sent provisions to the grounded naval vessel on the shoal and rotated its personnel there, China has interfered more frequently since last year.

Related coverage:

Chinese, Philippine ships collide near disputed shoal in South China Sea

China's new rule allowing maritime trespasser detention takes effect

Philippines says China disrupted medical evacuation in South China Sea
After being among more than 1,400 people charged over the January 6, 2021 insurrection and storming of the Capitol, Charles Hand III attempted to return to the scene of the crime by being elected to Congress. Unfortunately for him, he lost a Republican primary runoff for a House seat Tuesday.

Hand, who goes by Chuck, lost the Georgia 2nd congressional district race to former Trump administration official Wayne Johnson. In November, Johnson will face Democratic Representative Sanford Bishop, who has held the seat since 1993.

Hand previously received 32 percent of the initial primary election on May 21, proceeding to the runoff with Johnson, who received 44.6 percent of the vote. Under Georgia law, political candidates must receive more than 50 percent of the vote to avoid a runoff election.

Almost two weeks ago, Hand walked out of a debate after one of his opponents in the initial primary, Michael Nixon, mentioned that Hands wife, Mandy Robinson-Hand, had a criminal history of oxycodone possession and was Hands co-defendant in their Capitol riot case.

Hand admitted to breaking off a piece of metal fencing and placing it in his back pants pocket in his January 6 case, and was sentenced to 20 days in prison. Prosecutors wrote in his sentencing memo that after participating in the riot, he told his wife Like I said it was a perfect time to be a part of history! He also encouraged his wife to not turn herself in and to deny, deny, deny.

Hand was one of many January 6 participants running for office in 2024. One of them, Derrick Evans, served three months in prison and ran for the Republican nomination in West Virginias 1st congressional district, only to lose in May.
Charlotte convicted felon found with a gun, sentenced to nearly 4 years in prison

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A convicted felon from Charlotte has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison for owning a firearm, according to the United States Attorneys Office.

On Monday, June 17, 35-year-old Ray Ervin was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a felon.

Charlotte fentanyl dealer sentenced to more than 12 years in prison: DOJ

Court documents show on December 12, 2022, officers saw Ervin while patrolling an area in Charlotte that had received numerous calls relating to criminal activity.

Officers tried to stop Ervins vehicle but he did not cooperate. Ervin was later found hiding in a shed where he was arrested. Officers found a firearm and a backpack containing fentanyl, methamphetamine and marijuana, officials said.

On August 8, 2023, Ervin pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was previously convicted of that in Georgia, and in South Carolina for kidnapping where he is not allowed to have a firearm.

Authorities say Ervin is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

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Charlotte fentanyl dealer sentenced to more than 12 years in prison: DOJ

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A Charlotte man has been sentenced to more than 12 years in prison for distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine, according to the United States Attorneys Office.

From July 2022 through October 2022, Chad Clay, 31, sold fentanyl and meth to an undercover officer in Charlotte, documents showed.

Monroe man found in Gastonia with more than 3 pounds of fentanyl, charged

Along with the drugs, Clay sold the undercover officer multiple firearms including a handgun that was reportedly stolen and a rifle with two high-capacity magazines.

Officials say Clay is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammo due to prior convictions including conspiracy to commit common law robbery and assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury.

On March 16, 2023, Clay pled guilty to:

3 counts of distribution of fentanyl

Distribution of methamphetamine

Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

On Monday, June 17, Clay was sentenced to 151 months in prison.

The Department of Justice says Clay will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated federal Bureau of Prisons facility.

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.
Swing voters indicate they may not vote for President Joe Biden because he is too old and incompetent. That narrative is already widely believed  but as Republicans try to add fuel to the fire, they have resorted to spreading deceptively edited videos to make Biden appear incapacitated, confused, and incapable.

In recent days, you may have seen videos on social media claiming to depict Biden aimlessly wandering off from world leaders viewing a skydiving demonstration at this years G7 summit, or attempting to sit in an invisible chair.

Many of the clips that went viral, some of which racked up millions of impressions, were quickly found to have been deceptively edited. As legitimate concerns over the 2024 candidates age clash with a media ecosystem rife with misinformation, the use of what experts call cheap fakes is becoming increasingly common.

According to the Media Manipulation Casebook, a project of the now-dissolved Harvard Kennedy Schools Shorenstein Center, a cheap fake is altered media that has been changed through conventional and affordable technology. Social media examples of cheap fake techniques include photoshopping (including face swapping), lookalikes, as well as speeding and slowing video. On Tuesday, White House Press Secretary used the term to describe the series of viral clips as cheap fakes video that are done in bad faith.

Dr. Joan Donovan, a digital extremism and misinformation expert, coined the term in 2019 alongside her colleague Britt Paris. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Donovan explained that the term reminds us that were living in a society that is mediated by digital images. And those images, depending on how theyre framed or played back, can be very deceiving.

The deceptive video of Biden walking away from world leaders was boosted by the Republican National Committee, which wrote WHAT IS BIDEN DOING? as a caption on a tweet that now has over 3.5 million impressions. Former President Donald Trumps campaign described it as Crooked Joe Bidens cognitive decline on full display at the G7 Summit. The New York Post dubbed him the Meanderer In Chief.

As it turned out, Biden didnt just wander away mid-event with no clear purpose or direction  hed actually been approaching one of the parachutists who was just out of the camera frame. A longer version of the video pans along with Biden, and shows him approaching the individual, who was packing up their parachute, and briefly conversing with them.

4/ Here is a screenshot from the video where we can see Biden and the paratroopers near him. pic.twitter.com/nwpLnoi8ek  David Puente (@DavidPuente) June 14, 2024

In another similar instance, video circulated claiming to show Biden attempting to sit in a nonexistent chair during the 80th D-Day anniversary commemoration ceremony. Once again, a longer cut of the video showed that while Biden preemptively made a move to sit down, he seconds later took a seat in a  very real  chair along with others on the stage.

L  RNCs deceptively edited clip, cut one second before Biden sits in a chair.



R  The rest of what happened after their clip was cut. pic.twitter.com/QjNUj30lUl  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) June 6, 2024

A third video claiming to show a confused Biden having to be led off the stage by former President Barack Obama was shared by Trump on Truth Social. Is this really who you want to be your president? Trump wrote. The White House issued a firm denial of social medias characterization of the incident. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates described the scene as the president taking in an applauding crowd for a few seconds.

At a rally Tuesday, Trump mocked Biden over his teams response to the videos, and accidentally created a new term for cheap fakes, as he told attendees, they say the videos of Crooked Joe shuffling around are clean fakes.

Yet, Trump has not been spared, either. On Tuesday, YouTuber Bryan Tyler Cohen posted a still image of Trump and his son, Donald Trump Jr., grasping hands as they appeared to walk down a stage. Here is a photo of Trump having to hold someones hand to guide him off stage. Im sure this will get just as much coverage as the daily BiDeN oLd story gets, the X posts caption read.

The image was actually taken from a video that shows Trump and Trump Jr. briefly shaking hands after which the former president continued alone down the walkway.

If you watch a video of this exact moment, it's crystal clear that Donald Trump and his son Don Jr were simply shaking hands here, and Trump wasn't being guided off stage at all. https://t.co/MjCXjmgbC7  Shayan Sardarizadeh (@Shayan86) June 18, 2024

Donovan explains that oftentimes, the simplicity of the editing that constitutes a cheap fake can make it hard to see the overarching pattern of tactical misinformation. These techniques are not new to us, but they do remind us that all media is ideological in some way, she says. With the cost of media manipulation going down, you also have the spread of that tactic available to many, many, many more people.

Its a cheap fake when its done with some kind of political or ideological motive  in this case to paint [Biden] as senile, Donovan summarizes.

The tactic is by no means new. Donovan points to the 2016 election cycle, when a spat of deceptively edited videos aimed to cast aspersions on then-presidential candidate Hillary Clintons physical health. The misinformation takes on a whole new dynamic when it plays on legitimate concerns held by its target audience.

Its not just a case that a few people are out here having that conversation. There is a national dialogue about the age of these two men  and it does give people examples to work with, in their own minds, if they are using that as a reason to vote for someone or not vote for someone, she says. There is something here about the scale of this in terms of the fact that even though you can have these discussions, the scale of the misinformation, and the amount of people it reaches is just so massive because of social media.

So writing stories, trying to correct the record, ensuring that someone sees the longer video as opposed to the shorter video. These things become, ultimately, a distraction for the political campaign. It becomes harder for the campaign to stay on message and stay on task, Donovan says.

That dynamic is playing out in textbook fashion on Fox News, Trumps chief propaganda apparatus, where anchors have continued to push the deceptive narratives around the video. In the face of credible fact checks, Martha MacCallum claimed on-air that the videos in question are unedited, and another host went so far as to claim that the White House calling the videos deepfakes could constitute a felony.

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Cherokee County jury convicts man in less than an hour after disconnected 911 call

A Cherokee County jury found a man guilty of terroristic threats and acts.

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The conviction stems from an investigation that began last year on July 28. The Cherokee County Sheriffs Office said deputies went to a Waleska home after a disconnected 911 call.

According to officials, the victim told deputies that she and Christopher Dean Bowling, 29, of Waleska, had been arguing and he wouldnt let her pack her belongings to leave.

The investigation later revealed that the victim shared a four-minute audio recording of a prior domestic incident, in which she said Bowling strangled her while a child was present.

Authorities said, deputies heard bickering, then a heated argument that led to the sound of a scuffle.

The victim allegedly went silent for about 30 seconds, not answering questions or responding while Bowling screamed vulgar language at her and suggested murder-suicide.

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Bowling was later arrested and indicted on three counts of aggravated assault, terroristic threats and acts, and cruelty to children in the third degree.

On Wednesday, a Cherokee County jury deliberated for less than an hour before finding Bowling guilty of terroristic threats and acts.

This comes after the jury heard testimony from four witnesses, listened to the audio recording and reviewed several pages of text messages Bowling sent to the victim.

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The audio recording is extremely disturbing, said Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney Rachel Ashe. The defendant threatened, demeaned, and intimidated the victim. At one point, the victim became strangely silent. She testified at trial that, during those 30 seconds of silence, the defendant was strangling her, leaving her unable to respond.

If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, contact the Cherokee Family Violence Center at 770-479-1703. In case of an emergency, call 911.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. talks to the media during the tribe's legislative advocacy day on Feb. 28, 2024. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

With an overwhelming margin of no, Cherokee Nation citizens voted against a referendum calling for a constitutional convention.

According to the Cherokee Nation Election Commission, the unofficial count stands at 1,769 objections and 777 yes votes between all 51 precincts, including early and absentee voters.

If the referendum had passed, a special council would haveve been assembled later this year to review the Cherokee Constitution and potentially amend and redraft the document. Tribal nation leaders are required to ask citizens to consider re-drafting every 20 years.

Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., several other Cherokee leaders and former constitution reframers had publicly expressed their plans to vote no, on the question leading up to the election.

The Cherokee Nation Constitution, ratified in 1839, was last amended in 2003.

This article was originally published by KOSU.

The post Cherokee Nation voters reject constitutional convention appeared first on Oklahoma Voice.
Chevron USA Inc. fired an employee because he refused to include false information in environmental reports to government agencies and complained to his supervisors that the company was violating the law regarding hazardous waste spills, he says in a lawsuit.

The lawsuit, filed by Corey Diaz, says criminal prosecution and fines could have been imposed over the hazardous waste spills, some of which Chevron did not want to report to state and federal agencies.

Chevron has not yet responded to the lawsuit, which represents only one side of the case. The company released a statement Tuesday afternoon to the Sun Herald that said, We are reviewing the lawsuit and have no further comment at this time.

Diaz and wife Deanna, who live in Jackson County, are suing Chevron in Circuit Court over the loss of his job of more than 10 years. Chevron operates a refinery in Pascagolula that manufactures and sells products that include gasoline, diesel, marine and aviation fuels, premium base oil, finished lubricants, and fuel oil additives.

Diaz went to work at Chevron in 2013 and was on track to rise through the ranks, says his lawsuit, filed by attorney Daniel M. Waide of Hattiesburg.

Chevrons hazardous waste underreported

In April 2022, Diazs lawsuit says, he was assigned to work on a report for the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.

While working on the report, the lawsuit says, Diaz reported to his supervisors that the data being sent to MDEQ as part of the report was grossly inaccurate regarding the amount of waste being transported and recycled by Chevron.

Supervisors were upset by what he told them and ordered him to leave the numbers alone, the lawsuit says.

Because he refused to provide false numbers to MDEQ, the lawsuit says, Diaz was removed from the assignment. A short time later, the lawsuit says, Diaz told supervisors that Chevron was not properly reporting hazardous waste spills to MDEQ and the Enivronmental Protection Agency.

His lawsuit says the supervisors were once again upset because they did not want to report additional hazardous waste spills to the agencies.

Chevron drew up Diazs termination papers in May 2022, the lawsuit says, while he was attending advanced training that was scheduled before he worked on the reports and was intended for longterm employees with potential for promotion.

Diaz was terminated in June 2022 on embellished grounds, his lawsuit says. The lawsuit claims that his work activities were protected by federal and state law, including the Water Pollution Control and Safe Drinking Water acts, and/or the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

Diaz is seeking unspecified compensation for lost wages, benefits and earning power and also for stress and anxiety. Hes also asking for punitive damages, saying Chevrons conduct was outrageous. His wife is seeking an unspecified amount for loss of companionship, love and assistance from her husband, the lawsuit says.
State Rep. Andrea White, R-Kettering. (Photo by Graham Stokes for Ohio Capital Journal. Republish photo only with original story.)

A host of bills meant to improve the child care system in Ohio are currently making their way through the legislature, some partnering employers and the state, and some aiming to lift a tax burden off Ohio parents.

State Rep. Andrea White, R-Kettering, recently spent time in the Ohio House Ways and Means Committee, introducing a trio of bills, all three of which deal with tax credits for businesses and households related to child care.

These bills are all about coming together for us to help our employers and our families figure out how do we solve this staggering workforce crisis and this staggering child care crisis, White told the committee.

House Bill 576

Joined by fellow Rep. Cindy Abrams, R-Harrison, White brought House Bill 576, which would supplement federal tax credits associated with acquiring, constructing, rehabilitating or expanding property used as the employer taxpayers qualified child care facility, operating expenses for child care workers and qualified resource and referral expenditures, which can include contracts with child care facilities.

Federal tax credits can cover up to $150,000 per employer, but to receive the maximum federal tax credit, businesses have to spend at least $600,000, Abrams told the committee.

Ohios small businesses, businesses with smaller profit margins and those without a federal tax liability  for example, nonprofits  are not incentivized to invest in this area with the tax credit in its current structure, Abrams said.

Under H.B. 576, the state would fill the gap by creating a deduction to cover up to $500,000, and would expand eligible expenses to include direct contributions to an employee for child care expenses or other things employers could do to help.

So that way its much more flexible, and it also enables smaller businesses who want to make it part of their employee benefits package, perhaps, White told the committee.

House Bill 577

Tax credits for parents would fall under a different bill sponsored by White, House Bill 577. That bill would bring Ohio up to par with 30 other states currently allowing a child care tax credit for parents.

You may already know Ohio is scraping the bottom when it comes to subsidizing child care for lower-wage working families, White wrote in her testimony on the bill.

The new bill would offer $3,000 per child or up to $6,000 per family in tax credits specifically for child care. The bill would credit eligible employment-related child care expenses on a sliding scale, from full credit for lower income households down to a 10% of available credits for high wage earners, defined at more than 700% of the federal poverty line, according to the bills sponsor.

White told the committee the economic boon in Ohio could be hindered by a lack of child care options, especially the 40% of Ohio residents who live in regions with few or no options for child care.

Its kind of like, you can have the job, but if you dont have the skills to get the job and you dont have the transportation or the child care to ensure that you can make it to work every day, we will never be able to fill these jobs that we have been so fortunate to attract in Ohio, White said.

Democrats on the committee praised the bills for their focus on improving child care affordability for Ohioans, which they said was a needed target to improve the states workforce numbers and economy.

This is, if not the number one issue I hear about from constituents, its up there, said state Rep. Dani Isaacsohn, D-Cincinnati. If you have a kid under 5 in Ohio, this is your number one expense.

Isaacsohn is a co-sponsor of a different bill on the same topic, which White noted as part of the discussion on the state of child care in the state. House Bill 570, also sponsored by state Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney, D-Westlake, was introduced last month and aims to provide publicly funded child care to child care staff members themselves.

Child care advocates have often decried a lack of affordability for child care, even for those who work in the field.

But Isaacsons bill may have a harder time getting through to passage than the Republican-led bills, based on the GOP supermajority in both chambers at the statehouse.

Similarly, state Dems introduced their own version of a family tax credit in October of last year, but it has yet to see action after being assigned to the same committee where Whites bills are currently under consideration.

House Bill 578

The third bill White brought before the Ways and Means Committee seeks to empower taxpayers to throw their support toward child care providers.

H.B. 578 would create a nonrefundable tax credit for Ohioans who make a financial contribution to a qualified child care provider, including family home or center-based child care providers and day camps, according to White.

The credit would cap at $100,000, equal to half the total value of the contributions.

Donors wont be allowed credit for payments to their own child care providers, but employers can get a discount on employee child care rates as incentive for donations under the bill.

One state in particular inspired the bill. White told the Ways and Means Committee Colorado invested $30 million in similar tax credits and produced $60 million per year in private investment in child care capacity.

A proposition that doubles your money is certainly one I would deem worthy for this committee of financially-minded individuals to consider, Whites testimony stated.

Cost-sharing model

Loading up the child care bills further are companion bills in the House and Senate which would create a cost-sharing model, splitting the cost of child care between employees, employers and the state.

State Sen. Michele Reynolds, R-Canal Winchester, announced Senate Bill 273 at the end of May, and introduced the bill last week in the Senate Workforce and Higher Education Committee. Reynolds told the committee the high cost of child care has become an overwhelming burden for countless families, with an average cost for an infant and a four-year-old sitting at $18,277. The bill sponsor said despite the publicly funded child care offered in the state, current state support is inadequate.

This financial strain has forced many parents, especially mothers, to reduce their working hours or leave their jobs entirely to manage child care responsibilities, according to Reynolds.

On Thursday, the House version of Reynolds bill will be introduced by state Rep. Mark Johnson, R-Chillicothe, in the House Finance Committee. Johnson joined Reynolds in announcing the bills, while also admitting its not a silver bullet to fix all child care.

But, he said when the bills were announced, the measure is a step toward stabilization for child care providers, and comes with the support of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and advocacy group Groundwork Ohio.

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The post Child care bills pile up in Ohio General Assembly appeared first on Ohio Capital Journal.
Child care worker Marci Then helps her daughter, Mila, 4, put away toys to get ready for circle time at the Little Learners Academy in Smithfield, R.I. A state program for child care workers subsidizes Milas tuition. A handful of other states have similar programs, which advocates say has beneficial ripple effects through the state economy. (Elaine S. Povich | Stateline)

SMITHFIELD, R.I.  Child care worker Marci Then, 32, looked over at two 4-year-olds in her care who were tussling over a toy plate in a model kitchen set. Are we sharing? she gently asked them. They both let go.

Then works at Little Learners Academy child care center near Providence, Rhode Island. Her daughter, Mila, 4, is enrolled there, so Then is able to keep a watchful eye on her in addition to about a dozen other 4-year-olds. Mila calls her mother Miss Marci at school, but Mom at home.

Most of the time, Mila is in another room with a different worker at the center, adhering to rules that dont allow parent caregivers to watch their own children in a licensed setting. But for today, Mila is around her mom for a bit to show a reporter around.

Mila proudly chirps her age, then helps put toys away so the kids can quietly gather for circle time.

Then said that without help she would not have been able to afford the $315 a week for Mila to come to Little Learners. But she is taking advantage of a one-year state pilot program that authorizes the use of federal funds to pay for care for the children of early education workers. New Hampshire lawmakers passed similar legislation last month that is making its way to Gov. Chris Sununus desk.

Its been life-changing for me, said Then, a single mom who is also responsible for a disabled young adult whom she adopted. Without it, Id have to rearrange my life.

In 2022, Kentucky lawmakers changed the employer child care assistance program to specifically include child care workers at all income levels who work at least 20 hours a week. Other states, including New Hampshire and Rhode Island, have since launched or are planning programs modeled after the one in Kentucky.

The Kentucky program was to end Sept. 30, but Stephanie French, spokesperson for the states Cabinet for Health and Family Services, wrote in an email that the state will be using a combination of federal and state funding to continue the program.

At least half a dozen states now have similar programs or are considering legislation to start them, according to EdSurge, a news site that covers education issues.

The legislation pending in New Hampshire would make individuals employed by a licensed child care center eligible for the scholarship program if they worked at least 25 hours a week and earned no more than the median household income for their geographic area. Their child could be no older than 13, or 17 if the child had a disability.

The one-year pilot program would come with $1 million that would be covered first by federal funds with the remainder paid by state dollars. Its one of a few steps lawmakers took this year aimed at expanding affordable child care options.

Supporters, including Republicans and Democrats, see retaining child care employees as a benefit not only to the workers and the centers facing worker shortages, but also to the states economies. For many people, the lack of affordable child care is a barrier to joining the workforce.

Charlene Barbieri, founder and owner of four Little Learners Academy locations in Rhode Island, said in an interview that it is difficult to hire and keep qualified employees. The child care subsidy program helps, she said.

Early learning here is very expensive as we know, right? Barbieri said. So any supplemental programs, monetary or otherwise, are exceptionally beneficial.

We have had many teachers come to us to say that if this program wasnt here, we could not afford to send our children to child care and still help our families by bringing in additional income, she said.

Rhode Island lawmakers added the child care subsidy to its fiscal 2025 budget this spring, moving the program out of the pilot category. Democratic Gov. Dan McKee is expected to sign the budget this week.

Its a good program, and weve seen great results with it, Rhode Island House Speaker Joseph Shekarchi, a Democrat, said in an interview. We have a labor shortage across the whole spectrum of our labor market. So, by giving [caregivers] free child care, theyre able to get back in and take care of other kids, which allows more people to enter the workforce.

Other states that have launched programs or are considering them include Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska, according to EdSurge.

The Center for the Study of Child Care Employment, a research center at the University of California, Berkeley, estimated that if every state followed Kentuckys lead, some 234,000 workers with children under age 6 could benefit.

We see it as a no-brainer, said Anna Powell, senior research and policy associate at the center, who co-authored a report on the program. The educators are parents  why shouldnt they be at the front of the queue? Every time an educator stays in the field, it benefits many parents.

Budget challenges

In some states, though, budget woes are challenging lawmakers who want to make their pilot program a permanent one.

Arizona had a one-year Education Workforce Scholarship program that assisted child care workers and public school teachers with paying for their own kids child care, but that program was funded with federal pandemic dollars and ends June 30. Its unlikely to be renewed because of state budget shortfalls.

Child care workers who now get that assistance would instead need to apply for aid through the states broad child care assistance program. That program, administered by the Arizona Department of Economic Security, is based on income levels, Tasya Peterson, a department spokesperson, wrote in an email to Stateline.

Barbie Prinster, executive director of the Arizona Early Childhood Education Association, a nonprofit that represents child care centers, said 3,541 children were approved for care subsidies under the early educator program this year, about three-quarters of them from families with a child care worker. The rest are from teachers families.

She predicted that hundreds of workers may have to quit if the subsidy isnt renewed.

I think providers are employing more moms that have young children because of this subsidy, she said.

In Nebraska, state Sen. John Fredrickson, a Democrat and the dad of a 5-year-old son, introduced a bill this session that would have granted no-cost child care to employees of state-licensed child care programs, whether in-home care or at centers, who work at least 20 hours a week.

He estimated the potential subsidy, which he modeled on Kentuckys idea, could have brought in 2,175 parent-providers. If each worker cared for eight children, there would be 16,000 children receiving care, and at least that many parents working, he estimated.

Fredrickson said the initial fiscal estimate for the bill was about $20 million, which proved to be a heavy lift, so he halved it to $10 million. But even that proved to be too much, he said, and the effort failed. He plans to reintroduce his bill next year.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, a Republican, approved a bill May 1 extending a child care subsidy pilot program for early childhood caretakers and educators, regardless of income, for two years at a cost of $10.2 million using the states Childcare Development Fund.

Colorado agreed to continue a program for child care providers with children ages 6 weeks to 13 years old, giving them full child care benefits, regardless of the employees income.

And Indiana agreed to study the issue of child caregiver and early educator compensation.

Good for Rhode Island

Sitting together in a hearing room just off the Rhode Island House chamber earlier this month, Democratic state Reps. Mary Ann Shallcross Smith and Grace Diaz said they understand the issue of caring for children firsthand. Both are mothers, though their children are grown now, and both are experienced child care center owners.

Shallcross Smith remembers putting up flyers in the local drug store, advertising her in-home care. She now owns 15 centers. When the issue of paying child care workers for their own kids tuition came up this year, she was all for it, and went to House Speaker Shekarchi with her arguments.

No. 1, its good for Rhode Island, she said, adding that its also good for business.

Diaz, a mother of five, said she, too, talked to the speaker. But perhaps the biggest driver in getting the program into the state budget, she recalled, was the day that they brought a bunch of little kids from various child care settings to the Capitol to be a living example of the need.

When they saw the little kids at the State House, they all wanted a picture, Diaz said.

Back on the Little Learners playground, care worker Kayla Champagne, 39, of Lincoln, Rhode Island, smiled up at her 3-year-old son, Jaxson, who peeked over the top of a climbing structure. Champagne, who has three other children ages 18, 14 and 8, is relieved that she can take advantage of a program that helps her pay for Jaxsons care.

She used to work at another day care place but could only afford to send Jaxson there a few days a week, she said. At Little Learners, staff helped her apply for the state subsidy.

Thats one of the reasons I left my other child care to come here, she said. Now I can work full time while having four kids.

Rhode Island Current reporter Nancy Lavin contributed to this report, as did New Hampshire Bulletin senior reporter Annmarie Timmins.

This story was originally published by Stateline, which like the New Hampshire Bulletin is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.
KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 13:08 | Japan, All

The Japanese parliament on Wednesday enacted a law for introducing a system to enable employers to check whether job applicants are registered sex offenders dating back 20 years, in a bid to block sex crime convicts from jobs involving children.

Under the system, dubbed the "Japanese DBS" in a nod to the British government's Disclosure and Barring Service, schools, daycare centers and kindergartens will be required to refer job applicants for sex offense record checks by the Children and Families Agency.

Cram schools and afterschool clubs can voluntarily sign up for the program, expected to be implemented around fiscal 2026, and will receive an official certification that can be used in marketing materials. Freelance private tutors and other self-employed individuals are exempt from the system.

Parents and children support groups had been lobbying for the system to protect the safety of kids following a spate of sexual abuse cases at daycare centers and cram schools in recent years.

If the agency confirms the jobseeker was given either a prison term for a sexual offense in the last 20 years or a fine in the past 10 years, the individual will be notified and given the option to decline the job offer.

If they choose not to turn down the offer, the agency will inform the prospective employer of the background check's outcome.

The checks will cover criminal offense convictions such as nonconsensual sex, as well as violations of local ordinances, including groping and voyeurism.

Under the new law, employers will also be required to take action if it is deemed that an existing employee, despite having no sexual criminal record, could commit a sexual offense based on complaints by parents or children.

But to strike a balance with people's freedom to choose their occupation, the government plans to compile guidelines laying out criteria for employers to use when implementing precautionary measures or dealing with an allegation against a worker.

The precautionary measures include removing the employees from roles that bring them into direct contact with kids and ensuring that children are not left alone with them. If the employers are unable to take such measures, they can also fire the worker in question.

The House of Councillors passed the bill Wednesday after it cleared the House of Representatives in late May.

Related coverage:

Singapore diplomat fined 300,000 yen for Tokyo bathhouse voyeurism

Japan lower house passes bill for criminal checks for jobs with kids

Ex-college employee gets 23 yrs for raping drugged students
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS)  Del. Todd Kirby, a Republican, presented an $8,000 check to Raleigh County Sheriff Jim Canaday on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, to assist district agencies with investigations of crimes against children.

The check comes from the Legislatures discretionary funds, according to Del. Kirby.

Dad, grandmother, sentenced in child abuse case

Sheriff Canaday said crimes against children, including online crimes, continue to plague society.

Ive got to say that, in the years Ive been in law enforcement, I was shocked at the number of child exploitation crimes that are out there, the number of people that actually try to come here or to lure our children somewhere else, Sheriff Canaday noted. It was shocking to me.

Ten interesting facts you might not have known about West Virginia

He said the money will be used to assist investigators in tracking down criminals and preventing crimes against children, including online crimes.

Del. Kirby said the check presented Tuesday was the last he would present as a state lawmaker, at least for the near future.

In May, Kirby was elected to serve as a Raleigh County Circuit Court judge.

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.
Fresh Malaysian durians will make their way to China as trade deals signed during Premier Li's visit

In this photo released by Malaysia's Department of Information, China's Premier Li Qiang, left, shakes hands with Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim before their meeting in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Wednesday, June 19, 2024. (Malaysia's Department of Information via AP)

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP)  Fresh Malaysian durians will soon make their way to China as the two countries signed a slew of trade and economic deals Wednesday during a visit by Premier Li Qiang to celebrate a half-century of diplomatic relations.

Li held private talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in the government administrative capital of Putrajaya before they met with their delegations. The two leaders witnessed the signing of various pacts, including a new five-year deal for economic and trade cooperation that officials said would bolster links between industries in priority sectors like high-level manufacturing and the digital economy.

They also inked a protocol on measures that will allow Malaysia to export to China fresh durian, the spiky tropical fruit with a strong odor and known for its creamy pulp, Anwars office said.

Exporting fresh durians to China will open a new market for Malaysia, which began selling durian pulp and paste to China in 2011 and frozen durian whole fruits in 2018. Malaysias frozen durian export value to China has surged from 170 million ringgit ($36 million) in 2018 to nearly 1.2 billion ringgit ($255 million) last year, it said.

Li, the first Chinese premier to visit Malaysia since 2015, flew in for a three-day visit late Tuesday from Australia. Li, who was given a red carpet welcome, said upon his arrival that the two nations 50-year anniversary was a new starting point to deepen links and increase exchanges.

China is ready to work with Malaysia, Li said in a statement published by the national Bernama news agency.

Li, Chinas No. 2 leader after President Xi Jinping, last week also became the first Chinese premier to visit New Zealand and then Australia in seven years.

While trade dominated the talks, the prickly issue of territorial claims in the South China Sea was also raised.

The two leaders agreed China and claimant countries in Southeast Asia should tackle the maritime dispute independently and properly through dialogue and cooperation, and via bilateral settlement, Chinas Xinhua news agency reported.

No details were given but the statement came amid concerns that the sea row could escalate and put the U.S. and China in a larger conflict following a fresh confrontation this week between Manila and Beijing. The U.S. renewed a warning Tuesday that it is obligated to defend treaty ally Philippines, after Chinese forces seized two Philippine boats delivering food and supplies to a military outpost in a disputed shoa and injured several Filipino navy personnel.

Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Taiwan all dispute Beijings claims to almost the entire South China Sea. Malaysias government prefers the diplomatic channel and rarely criticizes Beijing, even though Chinese coast guard ships have sailed near Malaysias waters. This is partly to protect economic ties between the trade partners.

Other agreements signed aim to promote investment in the digital economy and green development, combat transnational crime, and boost housing and urban development, higher education, people-to-people exchanges in science and technology, tourism and cultural cooperation, Anwar's office said.

Trade with China  Malaysias No. 1 trading partner since 2009  made up 17% of Malaysias global trade, valued at $98.8 billion last year, Trade Minister Zafrul Aziz was quoted as saying by Bernama last week.

Anwar, who visited China twice last year, has sought to move closer to Beijing even while engaging the U.S. as a key ally. While speaking at a forum in Tokyo in May, Anwar stressed that Beijing is too close, too important and too strategic to ignore.

Ahead of Li's visit, Anwar told Chinese media that Malaysia planned to join the BRICS bloc of developing economies but didn't give details. The plan was confirmed by Malaysian officials on Monday. The bloc's core members are Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, who seek a fairer world order currently dominated by Western nations. The bloc expanded with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates invited to become members this year. Some 40 countries have also expressed interest.

Joining BRICS doesn't mean Malaysia will lose its strategic ambiguity between Beijing and Washington. It merely means an additional platform to give it a bigger voice as a middle power," said James Chin, professor of Asian studies at Australias University of Tasmania.

Li also had an audience with King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar. He and Anwar later broke ground for a terminal station for the East Coast Rail Link, which connects Malaysias west coast to eastern rural states and is a key part of Chinas Belt and Road infrastructure initiative.

Li said at the ceremony that the railway was the largest single transportation infrastructure project undertaken by a Chinese company overseas. Once it is completed, he said China is willing to work with Malaysia to develop projects along the railway line to drive more commerce, logistics and tourism. Li said the rail line also could potentially be linked to Thailand, and subsequently to southern China.

The project was suspended in 2018 after Malaysias long-ruling coalition was toppled in a historic general election over a massive corruption scandal. It was subsequently revived after the Chinese contractor agreed to cut the construction cost by one-third, and is now due to be completed by the end of 2026.

The two leaders will also attend a dinner to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Both leaders will also meet the business community at a luncheon before Li heads home Thursday.

___

Follow AP's Asia-Pacific coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific
Congress is worried that robot dogs with machine guns will be bounding onto the battlefield in the near future.

During last weeks debate over the annual defense authorization bill, House lawmakers inserted language in the massive military policy measure to require a new assessment from the Defense Department on the threat of rifle-toting robot dogs used by China in potential future conflicts.

The issue has gained public attention in recent weeks after Chinese military officials showed off armed robotic quadrupeds during recent military drills with Cambodia.

In a video released by state-run CCTV on May 25, a 110-pound dog-like robot is shown carrying and firing an automatic rifle. A spokesman for the Chinese military said the robot, which can perform many tasks autonomously, could serve as a new member in our urban combat operations.

Marines test robotic mule that could carry weapons, sensors

Drone warfare is not new to the U.S. or foreign militaries, and the American military for years has experimented with robot dogs for use in reconnaissance and unit support roles.

But the idea of a robot version of mans best friend shooting at American soldiers was enough to prompt House members to demand that the secretary of defense investigate the threat such use poses to the national security of the United States.

The amendment was adopted without objection from any members of the chamber. But it will have to survive negotiations with senators on the broader defense measure in coming months before it can become law.

The Senate is expected to hold floor debate and make possible amendments to its draft of the legislation in the next few weeks.
TALLAHASSEE  More than 1 million customers with Citizens Property Insurance, the states insurer of last resort, could see their rates go up by hundreds of dollars when they renew next year.

The corporations board of governors on Wednesday approved a proposed 14% rate increase overall for its policies.

The request is still subject to approval by Florida regulators.

Citizens was created by the Legislature for homeowners and businesses unable to find insurance on the private market. Its rate increases are capped under state law, although lawmakers in recent years raised those caps.

For 2025, the cap is 14% for a primary home and 50% for secondary homes, defined as those that are occupied nine months or less each year.

Most of the corporations nearly 1.2 million policies are typical homeowners policies, which cover fire, theft and windstorms. Although Citizens is asking for a 14% increase on those policies, the effect would be about a 13.5% increase overall.

Miami-Dade homeowners with those policies would see their premiums increase from an average of $5,113 to an average of $5,804.

In Broward County, homeowners with those policies would see their premiums go from an average of $5,385 to $6,112.

In Tampa Bay, the increases wouldnt quite be as drastic because the premiums are lower.

In Hillsborough County, the average $2,667 premium would go up to an average of $3,028. In Pinellas County, it would go from $2,854 to $3,234.

Homeowners with only wind coverage through Citizens would see an average 14.6% increase. Those with Citizens condominium policies would see an average 14.2% increase.

Citizens board is made up of lawyers and business executives appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis and the Republican leaders of the Legislature.

During Wednesdays meeting, Citizens board member Scott Thomas, a Jacksonville lawyer appointed by Patronis, said he knew the headlines from Wednesdays meeting would be about the rate hikes.

But the real story, he said, was about how effective recent legislative reforms have been at reducing the number of lawsuits filed against Citizens. The changes included reducing the amount of time a homeowner has to file a lawsuit from three years to one.

The reforms havent yet trickled down to benefit homeowners through reduced insurance rates.

Citizens rates are still below whats offered by private insurers. But its policyholders are facing another significant cost increase in coming years.

The Legislature in 2022 required all Citizens policyholders to get flood insurance by March 1, 2027. Under the sliding scale they adopted, all policyholders with homes valued at more than $500,000 would have to get flood insurance by March 1 next year.
City Council votes for its website to be official newspaper. Its not a very good one | Opinion

Ive written twice so far about how the majority of the Wichita City Council, the city attorneys office and the strategic communications staff are opening a can of worms with their campaign to declare City Halls own website as the citys official newspaper, so they can publish legal notices that are now published in The Eagle.

Throughout this time, I have been crystal clear that I dont care whether the city publishes legal notices in The Eagle or not, but in the interest of transparency and security they should have to be published somewhere other than city-controlled media.

I went to Tuesdays council meeting not really knowing what would come of this.

I did expect four members of the council  Mayor Lily Wu and council members Dalton Glasscock, J.V. Johnston and Brandon Johnson  to vote to take legal notices out of the paper. And they didnt disappoint.

I also figured that council members Maggie Ballard and Mike Hoheisel would support continued publication of legal notices. Indeed, they voted no on the change.

What did surprise me was council member Becky Tuttle. She proposed an amendment, which passed, that would declare the city site as the official newspaper, but also require that the legal notices be duplicated in a printed publication serving the Wichita market.

Its an intriguing idea. And my compliments to Tuttle for seeking a middle ground that would preserve the access to information that the citizens of this community deserve and have come to expect.

I said consistently since the first time this item was brought to us that Im not willing to sacrifice transparency for cost savings, she said.

Color me impressed, because I know shes been under a lot of pressure to vote the other way. The proposed change is a charter ordinance and needs five votes to pass, instead of the usual four, so Tuttles the swing vote.

I bounced Tuttles plan off Emily Bradbury, executive director of the Kansas Press Association and one of the states leading experts on legal notices, and she did point out a couple of potential glitches.

One is that the city might actually wind up paying more for legal advertising. By state law, a designated official newspaper can charge cities for legal ads only at the lowest rate they charge any customer all year, including any sales or discounts.

Thats a good law, because nobody should be able to take advantage and turn legal notices into a cash cow. But that safeguard wouldnt apply if the city websites the official newspaper.

Also, she said, the city is taking on legal liabilities now borne by the newspaper, which is required to ensure that all official notices are accurate and on time and file legal affidavits to that effect. From here on out, thats on the city, not whatever paper they publish notices in.

Claim that ransomware attack on city site not a crash

Along the way to the vote, Tyler Schiffelbein of the city communications staff objected to my saying in a column that the recent ransomware attack on the citys computers crashed its website, calling into question whether its wise to make that the sole repository for legal notices.

Granted, you could get on the website during the attack if you knew how (you had to type the entire address, including www), but you couldnt do much of anything, including paying your bills, signing up for activities or even booking your tee time. So pardon me for characterizing that as a crash.

Another complaint came from a guy named Vince Hancock, who identified himself as a journalist and citizen documenter with the Wichita Journalism Collective.

Its actually the Wichita Journalism Collaborative. I know that because The Eagles a founding member and my wife is coordinator of the collaborative  although not the documenters project.

But setting that aside, Hancock accused me of lying and facts-optional half truths, because I wrote that the vote on legal notices was delayed because all the district advisory board meetings in May were canceled due to the computer hack.

Whered I get that idea? From the citys website.

The staff report for Tuesdays meeting says this: On May 28, 2024, due to cancellation of the DAB meetings for the month of May, the item was deferred until June 18, 2024. Presentations have now been made to each DAB at the June meetings.

This has certainly taught me a lesson about trusting the future official newspaper.

We now know from Mr. Hancock that least two DAB meetings were held last month, because he said he was at them. But apparently those meetings were held without proper public notice.

Im on the email list to receive all city meeting notifications and I only got one for DABs in the entire month of May.

It was for Glasscocks DAB and his names on it, but the picture in the header is council member Johnston. Score two for the future official newspaper.

Frankly, Im tired of all this nonsense.

The system wasnt broken before. The citys breaking it.
KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 21:43 | All, Japan

Google LLC said Wednesday it will collaborate with the University of Tokyo to launch an initiative that uses generative artificial intelligence to address challenges faced by local communities in Japan, such as a shrinking workforce, with successful models to be rolled out nationwide by 2027.

Yutaka Matsuo, a professor at the university known for being a leading figure in AI research, will be involved in the project, which will first be piloted in Osaka and Hiroshima prefectures, Google said at a technology conference in Tokyo.

Students who have completed courses in Matsuo's laboratory will work with Google engineers to construct generative AI models to solve specific issues.

In Osaka, the focus will be on resolving employment mismatches due to skews in the types of professions that job seekers prefer. A successful model, for example, would be able to suggest positions that job seekers themselves may not have realized were suitable, or illustrate ideal career paths leading to a desired job.

Unlike existing job placement agencies like Hello Work, proposals will be drawn from the vast data available online.

The focus for Hiroshima remains to be decided. Gov. Hidehiko Yuzaki, who spoke at the conference, stated his intention to "declare a future paved by AI," suggesting that the technology may be able to generate precise responses to inquiries about relocating.

According to Google, generative AI could potentially be used to enhance medical care systems on remote islands and automate tasks in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.

"Effectively (utilizing generative AI) could be a significant opportunity for Japan," Matsuo said.

Related coverage:

Apple, Google say will engage with Japan over new app law

Japan Cabinet OKs bill to challenge Apple-Google app store duopoly

Meta sued in Japan for investment ads with fake celebrity endorsement
The city of Chicago has initiated a payroll audit after widespread miscalculations in pay for laborers working on city garbage trucks, trimming trees and fixing sidewalks and roads, an ongoing problem that prompted a union official to rip Mayor Brandon Johnson for not dealing with it.

The issue sprang up in January when workers represented by LiUNA Local 1001 discovered miscalculations in paychecks for back pay.

Since then, the city and the union had been in a back-and-forth over how to address discrepancies resulting in over- and underpay for retroactive checks and problems issuing separate payments to hundreds of others who work alone as drivers on city garbage trucks. In all, the union represents about 1,900 city workers.

Union leaders went public with the fiasco on June 10. In a fiery update to members posted online, Bob Chianelli, the business manager for LiUNA Local 1001, said city officials failed to fix the situation after the union had spent weeks requesting the city turn over pay registers and correct errors worth tens of thousands for some members.

Approximately 125 members were underpaid, Chianelli told the Tribune, while around 800 were overpaid. The overpayments, he estimated, cost somewhere between $2.7 million and $2.9 million.

It appears to everyone that not only did they underpay people but they grossly overpaid people, Chianelli told the Tribune, including one member overpaid close to $31,000. The mistakes were so apparent that I finally lost it.  I had a guy who worked one hour. He was supposed to get $1.03 in retro. They paid him $1,125. Im a good negotiator, but Im not that good.

In a news update to members, Chianelli criticized Johnson for not prioritizing correcting the mistakes.

The Mayor can spend 30k on haircuts and makeup, throw away millions of dollars on developing a toxic site for migrant housing and use almost $300 million dollars of taxpayer money to service them, yet the men and women that keep this City running, pick up the trash, fix the streets and sidewalks, trim the trees, keep the airports safe and clean, and so much more, are being punished because the City cannot do 2nd grade math, he said.

The city acknowledged the payroll problem, saying retroactive pay issues are not uncommon and that the laborers calculations were a large undertaking. There are more than 340 different rates across 220 titles and several city departments, and inputs could have been mishandled at one of several stages in the payroll process before reaching the comptrollers office, which cuts employees checks.

City labor and finance officials told the Tribune they were working diligently to fix the issue while staying true to their fiduciary duty to taxpayers to get it right.

The laborers new agreement, ratified in October, set out to recognize the hard work of those laborers over the years and bring their pay to the right standard, LaKesha Gage-Woodard, a spokesperson for the citys fiscal offices, said in a written statement. That new deal included a boosted rate for general laborers who had their starting pay reduced amid budget cuts undertaken early in Mayor Rahm Emanuels administration.

The Johnson administration was surprised at the tenor of Chianellis post. Officials said they had been working with the union hand in glove since January to resolve the situation.

The city believed it had reached a solution in April, only to discover other errors. Along the way, they discovered a similar issue affecting a slice of the trades represented by the Coalition of Unionized Public Employees. In all, there are more than 8,000 city workers represented by COUPE.

The comptrollers office ordered a pair of outside reviews: a forensic audit by the firm KPMG to get to the bottom of the laborers payroll issue, and a separate one to recommend fixes to the citys overall payroll scheme, which will take a few months, city officials said.

We have worked with our internal auditor to ensure the conversations between the City and 1001 were verified, Gage-Woodard said, adding the city has a responsibility to both the taxpayers, especially these City workers, to get everything right.

The issue of overpayment, Chianelli said, is a complex one, given withholdings for state and local taxes, health insurance and pensions. He said workers should not have to work to recoup overpayments for insurance, for one, and that it would be a financial hardship for workers to have significant drawdowns on their paychecks to correct the error.

The city is awaiting data from KPMG before it makes any changes to payroll.

Thats problematic, Chianelli said, since that means shorted workers still have to wait for pay they have been owed since January. Honestly, its been a nightmare for me. Ive been doing this for a very very very long time, through a lot of administrations, Ive never seen anything like this, he said. This is a total disaster.

The union representing rank-and-file Chicago police officers, the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7, also went public with complaints earlier this month about mistakes involving pension withholdings for some employees, also related to retroactive pay. City officials said they are awaiting a legal opinion on the tax implications to determine the correct withholding. Changes must also be recorded in the citys public financial statements.

aquig@chicagotribune.com
Newark Mayor Ray Baraka speak to attendees as people protest during the annual Juneteenth commemorations June 19, 2023, in Newark, N.J. Credit - Eduardo MunozAlvarezVIEWpress/Getty Images

While Martin Luther King, Jr.s January birthday has been a national holiday for nearly four decades, the four-year-old Juneteenth federal holiday already holds greater promise for civic education.

Precisely because a more racially contentious dynamic has unfolded around Juneteenth, this relatively recent celebration has opened the door to a focused telling of Black history. By contrast the relatively lukewarm reception to Martin Luther King Jr. Day has made education about difficult stories from our nations past less likely. Juneteenth, on the other hand, holds more promise for honest encounters with a past often obscured by the politics of the present.

Unlike the 2021 unanimous Senate vote and 415-14 House tally in favor of the Juneteenth holiday, the 1983 voting process for the King holiday was lengthy and conflictual. Having failed passage in both 1968 and 1979, the bill finally became law in 1983 but only after a Senate filibuster had been defeated and the House two-thirds majority mustered. At the state level, New Hampshire, the last state to establish a holiday to honor King by name, did not do so until 2000.

Pundits at the time conjectured that such a contentious legislative process would foster ongoing dissension. Contrary to this prediction, however, the celebration of the King holiday soon lost its political edge. Only a year after the first celebration of the holiday, noted civil rights historian and author Vincent Harding observed in the September 1987 edition of the Journal of American History that the country had developed a massive case of national amnesia by stripping King of his prophetic and revolutionary messages. As a result, the holiday rarely stirred new controversies.

By contrast, the establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 offered a rare moment of bi-partisan support for racially conscious legislation. But the subsequent record of Juneteenth celebrations has been far more mixed. To be certain, this new holiday has popularized the Juneteenth history. The delay in announcing an end to slavery to the quarter million enslaved people in Texas is now much more widely known. Where once the account of the armys arrival in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, rarely circulated outside African-American circles, the narrative is now told on an annual basis in thousands of celebrations across the country.

At the same time, tensions around Juneteenth celebrations have increased in the wake of the initial bi-partisan consensus. Since January 2021, 44 states have introduced bills placing limits on the teaching of Critical Race Theory (CRT), often with chilling effect on all public discussions of race-specific history. As of 2023, 28 states have enacted restrictions and bans on CRT and related topics through legislative mandate, executive order, or other means. These legislative developments have, in turn, politicized Juneteenth as public celebrations of the day become a rare occasion for instruction in Black history.

Amid these racial tensions, the historically specific nature of the holiday made a softening of the story less likely. The life of an individualeven one tragically cut short like MLK Jr.soffers many angles for re-interpretation. The story of the failure to inform an enslaved people of their freedom has proven far more difficult to recast.

Read More: The Origins of Juneteenth and Why Black Independence Day Falls on June 19th

Historians have long argued that the practice of democracy requires not only a civically educated populace but a body politic knowledgeable about its successes and failures. If the way forward for U.S. democracy involves such literacy, Juneteenth celebrationsmore so than the now blunted King holidayappear to be an incubator for what that racially conscious literacy might entail.

In the small Mountain West city of Missoula, Montana where I live, for instance, the Montana Black Collective Missoula organizes an annual Juneteenth celebration at which leaders from the city and county join community residents to learn not only about the events of Juneteenth in Texas but the history of African Americans in their city and state. Past celebrations have included talks about the famed sojourns of the 25th-infantry bicycle corps, the history of Ku Klux Klans visit to a local African Methodist Episcopal Church in Missoula, and the legacies of notable Black Montananswomen, men, and children. The platform for educating the public about Montanas Black History has broadened significantly due to the educational and celebratory activities provided by the Juneteenth holiday.

Whenever such local celebrations take place, they model the possibilities that emerge from robust telling of our nations often fraught, frequently horrific, and yet hope-filled history. That story offers an invitation to strengthen the body politic and to honor the forebears who, like those who marched into the full awareness of their freedom in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, took risks and helped bring about a fuller realization of what democracy could mean and might one day become. The King holiday can and should continue to be celebrated as a point of national unity around a fallen hero, of course. But the ongoing celebration of Juneteenth holds even greater promise for robust civic education precisely because it acknowledges a point of such historic tension.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Clay County Sheriffs Office is investigating a deadly shooting at a home in Kearney, Missouri, Tuesday night.

According to deputies, a 911 caller reported a man had been shot inside a home in the 16200 block of Kountry Ridge Drive, approximately three miles northeast of Kearney.

Kansas lawmakers pass STAR bonds bill to lure Chiefs, Royals

Upon arrival, deputies said the man died on the scene and they took someone in for questioning.

The Clay County Sheriffs Office confirmed on Wednesday the shooting is being investigated as a homicide.

No identity of the victim(s) or suspect has been released. Stay tuned at FOX4 for the latest updates and information on this 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Either we end the fossil fuel era, or the fossil fuel era will end us," one of the activists said

HANDOUT/Just Stop Oil/AFP via Getty Just Stop Oil at Stonehenge

Two people have been arrested in the United Kingdom after using orange powder paint to deface Stonehenge.

Activist group Just Stop Oil, whose organization focuses on climate change, shared footage to X (formerly known as Twitter) on Wednesday, June 19, of the coordinated effort at the site of the prehistoric megalithic structure on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England.

"We have arrested two people following an incident at Stonehenge this afternoon, Wiltshire police said in a statement.

At around noon, we responded to a report that orange paint had been sprayed on some of the stones by two suspects. Officers attended the scene and arrested two people on suspicion of damaging the ancient monument. Our inquiries are ongoing.

PEOPLE has contacted Wiltshire Police for additional comment.

Just Stop Oil/MEGA Stonehenge covered in orange paint by Just Stop Oil, June 2024

Just Stop Oil confirmed the identities of the suspects on their organization's official website as Niamh Lynch, a 21-year-old student from Oxford, and Rajan Naidu, 73, from Birmingham.

Their goal was to demand that the incoming UK government commit to working with other governments to agree an equitable plan to end the extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030.

Rishi Sunak, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, condemned their actions.

Related: Crowds Gather at Stonehenge to Celebrate Summer Solstice for First Time Since Pandemic Began

This is a disgraceful act of vandalism to one of the UKs and the worlds oldest and most important monuments, he said, per The Guardian.

The BBC reported that a spokeswoman for English Heritage called Wednesdays incident "extremely upsetting," but confirmed the site remained open to the public.

Just Stop Oil planned the demonstration ahead of the summer solstice, when crowds descend upon Stonehenge to mark the longest day of the year.

HANDOUT/Just Stop Oil/AFP via Getty Just Stop Oil at Stonehenge, June 2024

Stonehenge at solstice is all about celebrating the natural world  but look at the state its in! We all have a right to live a life free from suffering, but continued burning of oil, coal and gas is leading to death and suffering on an unparalleled scale, Lynch said in a statement to the organization.

The student echoed similar sentiments in a video filmed before the incident and shared on X after the arrests.

Related: 23,000 Gather to Celebrate Summer Solstice at Stonehenge (PHOTOS)

These stones have stood here for 5,000 years. What will the world look like in 5,000 years time? Lynch asked in the clip.

Naidu also shared a statement.

Either we end the fossil fuel era, or the fossil fuel era will end us. Just as fifty years ago, when the world used international treaties to defuse the threats posed by nuclear weapons, today the world needs a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty to phase out fossil fuels and to support dependent economies, workers and communities to move away from oil, gas and coal.

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.

Naidu added, The orange cornflour we used to create an eye-catching spectacle will soon wash away with the rain, while urging the government to sign the treaty.



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Read the original article on People.
The United States and allies are debating what to commit to Ukraine's NATO membership at the upcoming 75th anniversary summit in Washington, CNN reported on June 19. U.S. officials are reportedly facing criticism from European countries for not willing to go as far as countries closer to Russia would prefer.

Kyiv did not receive the much-desired invitation nor a firm deadline to join the alliance during last year's 2023 NATO summit in Vilnius, even though NATO took steps to tighten cooperation. Ukrainian officials have voiced hope that the Washington meeting, scheduled for July 9-11, will bring a more definite signal.

According to CNN, US and German officials have proposed giving Ukraine a "bridge" to NATO at next month's summit rather than an "irreversible path" that NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg specified earlier this year and is currently favored by the UK and numerous Eastern and Central European countries.

A senior American official told CNN that the Biden Administration does not think the word "irreversible" would earn the support of the entire alliance, particularly Hungary. The U.S. reportedly believes it is close to an agreement with allies on the language.

One Central European diplomat said that "most Central Eastern European countries are disappointed by the Biden administrations ambiguity and procrastination in outlining a concrete path forward for Ukraine's entrance into NATO.

A second official said that European allies had been directly lobbying the White House to push for a commitment to Ukraine's NATO membership.

Earlier this year, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that a consensus had not been reached among NATO member states regarding Ukraine's entrance but that the alliance is "currently working on it."

Stoltenberg also said that the alliance aims to help Ukraine get as close as possible to NATO standards as part of its integration process, adding that there is "a lot of work ahead."

"At the same time, we need to make you [Ukraine] as interoperable as possible. And integrate you as much as we can," he said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in turn, noted that Ukraine will join NATO only after Russia's full-scale invasion ends. The president hopes that Ukraine's victory against Russia will help to reach a perfect agreement among all NATO member states.

Read also: How Mark Rutte became NATO Secretary General and what it means for Ukraine?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  A lactose-intolerant woman who prefers oat milk over cow milk is suing Biggby Coffee, claiming the Michigan-based coffee franchise is enriching itself with an excessively high surcharge for non-dairy alternatives.

The federal lawsuit, filed Wednesday in Grand Rapids, accuses Biggby of unjust enrichment and violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by imposing a surcharge of between 50 cents and $1.

Leslie Bower, a woman who has patronized Biggby locations in Ohio and Michigan, has to avoid dairy products due to bloating, diarrhea and excessive gas, according to the lawsuit.

When she visits Biggy locations, she uses non-dairy alternatives, such as oat milk.

And she is hit with a surcharge, which has real and practical consequences for consumers suffering from lactose intolerance, according to the 18-page lawsuit.

Non-dairy alternatives to milk that carry a surcharge include oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk and lactose-free milk, the suit says.

Biggby has earned at least $50 million in the U.S. as result of its discriminatory and illegal levying of the surcharge over a span of years, the lawsuit says.

The class action complaint contends that Biggbys thread of misconduct has resulted in injury to all members of the class.

A message left with Biggby corporate offices in East Lansing on Wednesday was not returned.

Biggby has some 400 coffee stores in at least a dozen states, according to the lawsuit.

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.
DENVER (KDVR)  The Colorado Attorney Generals Office is suing a Colorado cannabis business and its owner, accusing them of selling marijuana products marketed as federally legal hemp products that contained THC up to 35 times higher than what is legal.

This is the first time since the state legislature granted the Colorado Attorney Generals Office the authority to enforce industrial hemp laws that such a lawsuit has been filed.

Residue found at Rocky Mountain Regional VA impacts nearly 500 surgeries

According to the lawsuit, Gee Distributors, LLC, and its owner, Christopher Eoff, were investigated for a subsidiary known as CBDDY, which was established in 2019 and based in Fort Collins. The business was dissolved in May 2023, according to the attorney generals complaint.

The Weld County-based business was selling products it purported to be industrial hemp. But the Colorado Attorney Generals Office alleges that instead, CBDDY was operating mostly online and reportedly sold smokeable cannabis flower, high-THC concentrates and edible marijuana products.

The company allegedly marketed that their products were 100% compliant with federal law, but samples from the company reportedly showed THC content far higher than the legal federal limit. Additionally, the products also had imagery specifically designed to appeal to children, according to the Attorney Generals Office, with forms and flavors that were in the same vein.

Colorados legal cannabis regulations are designed to protect consumers, ensure the highest safety and quality standards, and keep cannabis out of the hands of kids, said Weiser in a release. In this case, the defendant recklessly sold products that were, in some cases, more potent even than what is sold in state-licensed dispensaries with little regard for requirements like lab testing and age verification.

Hemp-derived Delta 9 THC products are federally required to have 0.3% THC by dry weight or less, but Colorado also prohibits the sale of hemp thats been chemically modified to become products that get the user high. According to the Colorado Attorney Generals Office, the 2018 policy change spurred an increase in industrial hemp companies attempting to evade state regulations and taxes that would apply to recreational marijuana.

CBDDY advertises itself on Instagram as a CBD oil business but calls itself Your THCa Flower and Delta 9 Edible Shop on its website.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is an active ingredient in marijuana that does not cause a high by itself, according to the Mayo Clinic, because it does not contain tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. The chemical has been found to effectively treat seizures and is commonly available for online purchase. THCa is a precursor chemical to THC that isnt psychoactive when unprocessed, according to studies published in the National Library of Medicine.

Colorado requires companies selling industrial hemp to have their products tested at any of the 12 state-certified cannabis testing labs. The labs issue certificates of analysis, which legitimate industrial hemp businesses are not required to share with customers.

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However, if the company is selling products without disclosing the proper psychoactive contents of those products, that can lead to consumers unknowingly breaking the law, failing drug tests or becoming intoxicated, according to the Colorado Attorney Generals Office.

The attorney general is seeking a ban against CBDDY and other defendants that would prevent the company from continuing to deceptively market their products, and to pay civil penalties and restitution for their repeated violations of the Colorado Consumer Protection Act.

Consumers can report business fraud to the attorney general at StopFraudColorado.org.

FOX31 has reached out to Eoff and his Arkansas business in pursuit of comment on this litigation.

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.
This rendering shows how the Columbia Area Career Center will look when construction on its expansion finishes by the 2025-26 school year.

Work that started late last year to expand Columbia Area Career Center will be ready for students by the 2025-26 school year, says Suzette Waters, Columbia Public Schools board president.

Area residents are going to see the impacts of the expansion "when they have less of a wait time at a restaurant, a car shop or a doctor's office because we are training people that can add to the workforce. We're also allowing students to pursue their passions. That can be done in addition to an academic pursuit or in lieu of," she said.

The district cut the ribbon Tuesday on the expansion after the career center was closed to the public Monday as construction and renovations ramp up. Construction and renovations happened during the school year and will continue once students return in the fall.

The career center will grow by 15,000 square feet, providing more room for classrooms and programmatic space, including a student enterprise area. Firms doing the work are the paired Reinhardt Construction and SM Wilson.

Columbia Public Schools board president Suzette Waters speaks Tuesday before a ribbon cutting for the expansion of Columbia Area Career Center.

"For the last several months, there were also classes meeting daily. I think there needs to be a big sign that says, 'No students or staff were harmed in this project,'" Waters said, eliciting laughs from those gathered.

The Reinhardt Wilson duo also are slated to do the Battle Elementary School expansion and construction of a new elementary school adjacent to John Warner Middle School. The career center project has a maximum budget of $22.6 million. All three are part of the $80 million bond package approved by voters in 2022.

"(We) have it scheduled out to the day," said Susan Hart, president of Reinhardt Construction, about the career center project. "That is how you have to do it on these projects. It is all about getting your materials delivered and ordered and we have been working on that since October."

Columbia Public Schools former Chief Operations Officer Randy Gooch, center, cuts the ribbon on the expansion of Columbia Area Career Center. Gooch announced his retirement last year.

This includes demolition of a section of the career center to make way for the expanded spaces. Renovations started in November.

"We are in good shape," Hart said, adding most of the renovations should be finished by the start of the school 2024-25 year and the addition will be finished by fall 2025. The additions will include community-centered spaces, "such as (an) entrepreneurship (area) for the students. Spaces they can sell or practice their business entrepreneurship. There also is a community room for 200 people that also is our storm shelter."

The workforce landscape is changing and CPS must prepare its students for it, said Brian Yearwood, CPS superintendent.

"Columbia Public Schools Career Center not only impacts students in our district, but those in our surrounding school districts, private schools and parochial schools, who all send their scholars to us to participate in our courses and programmatic offerings," he said.

Columbia Public Schools Superintendent Brian Yearwood speaks Tuesday before a ribbon cutting for Columbia Area Career Center's expansion.

More: CPS students can get on-the-job training and get paid through new apprenticeship program

The career center expansion is a long-awaited project, Yearwood added, noting it will provide the space and innovate classrooms for a variety or programs, including culinary arts, automotive, engineering and more.

"It is important that these spaces allow for more scholars to come in and more practical opportunities," he said, acknowledging the ongoing work of Reindhardt Wilson. "The key is to get projects to come in on time and below cost and they have done that.

"... This would not be possible without the support of our community and our scholars are thriving because of that support."

From 2021: Parson: Columbia Area Career Center a showcase for workforce development in Missouri

Charles Dunlap covers local government, community stories and other general subjects for the Tribune. You can reach him at cdunlap@columbiatribune.com or @CD_CDT on X, formerly Twitter. Subscribe to support vital local journalism.

This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Columbia Area Career Center cuts ribbon on facility expansion work
By Shun Yoshioka, KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 08:11 | Arts, All, Japan, Feature

The story of a group of young women who were drafted from high school to the front lines of the Battle of Okinawa as Imperial Japanese Army nurses is being told through a traveling exhibition, with the many who tragically died serving as a lesson on the horrors suffered by Japanese civilians in the conflict.

The Himeyuri student corps, or Lily Corps, were a group of 222 students and 18 teachers from the Okinawa First Girls' High School and the Okinawa Female Normal School who were ordered by the Japanese army to serve on the front lines of what is widely considered the bloodiest battle in World War II's Pacific theater.

The Himeyuri Peace Museum in Itoman, a city in Japan's southernmost prefecture, is dedicated to the Himeyuri students. It is currently holding the exhibition until the end of June in the U.S. state of Hawaii, which has close ties with the prefecture that date back to before the war.

Mobilized on March 23, 1945, just a week ahead of the full invasion of American forces, the young women were assigned to a military hospital located inside some 40 caves used as bunkers in the southern part of Okinawa's main island. They were forced to nurse sick and wounded soldiers while under constant bombardment from U.S. forces.

The women, aged 15 to 19, assisted military doctors, surgeons, medics and nurses while also being given perilous tasks such as transporting ammunition, supplies, food and water to the front lines while artillery shells rained down around them. Part of their detail included burying the dead.

As Japan's losses mounted and defeat was clear, the schoolgirl corps was given an abrupt order to disband on June 18, 1945, just five days before the battle ended. The girls suffered mass casualties as they attempted to escape the battlefield.

Of the group, 123 girls and 13 teachers lost their lives, dozens of them even after the dissolution order. Many committed suicide using hand grenades, cyanide or by jumping from cliffs above the ocean.

The total death toll for both Japan and the U.S. in the Battle of Okinawa was over 200,000, including an estimated 94,000 civilians.

Many of the survivors gathered with supporters to open the Himeyuri Peace Museum on June 23, 1989, as a dedication to the student corps and to share their commitment to promoting peace. Panels explain the circumstances in which many of the girls died, and there are testimonials and memoirs from survivors.

As time passes and survivor numbers dwindle, the museum is seeking new ways to keep their stories alive, such as through involvement with local high school students.

One person involved said addressing the Battle of Okinawa is especially crucial now that military tensions in the region ramp up.

There were many comments from locals who visited another "Himeyuri and Hawaii" exhibition held at the University of Hawaii on the island of Oahu in September last year.

Some expressed shock that tiny Okinawa was the location of such a fierce battle. The event was held in a section of the venue hosted by the Hawaii United Okinawa Association and was visited by some 700 people over two days.

A similar event displaying panels about the schoolgirls started in February at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and will continue until the end of this month.

In addition to the history of the student corps, the exhibit details Okinawa's connection with Hawaii, where about 20,000 Okinawans are said to have emigrated before the war.

The panels shed light on Chiyoko Oyadomari, the only Hawaii-born teacher in the student corps who died in the Ihara Third Surgical Cave where the Himeyuri cenotaph now stands, as well as the alumni of student corps members who settled in Hawaii after the war.

Chokei Futenma, 64, director of the museum, said, "It is very significant to hold the exhibition at the site of the attack on Pearl Harbor," adding that he is considering bringing the exhibition to Asian countries such as South Korea and Taiwan, in the future.

The Himeyuri Peace Research Center, which is affiliated with the museum, wanted to further promote the events abroad and chose Hawaii as its first location. The exhibitions were scheduled to begin during the 2021 fiscal year but were postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The traveling exhibition will continue to tour University of Hawaii campuses with workshops also held, and in January, 14 local students, teachers, veterans and residents gathered to look at photos of the battle.

June 23 this year will mark the 35th anniversary of the museum's opening and is also Okinawa Memorial Day, the annual holiday observed in Okinawa Prefecture remembering the war dead from the Battle of Okinawa.

In recent years, fewer and fewer people have visited the museum. At its peak in fiscal 1999, the visitors exceeded 1 million, but it plummeted to the 60,000 range during the COVID-19 pandemic. The museum saw a recovery with 370,000 visitors last fiscal year, but it is still far from returning to the previous numbers.

Noriko Koga, 53, curator of the museum, said, "It is important that we know how to convey our message to the generations who have little to do with the war today."

In recent years, interest in the Battle of Okinawa has waned even within the prefecture, prompting the museum to hold its first mobile exhibition in the prefecture in fiscal 2022 in the village of Nakijin and other locations. This year, they chose the remote island of Kumejima as the site for the event, which is being held from the end of May to the end of June.

Working on a trial-and-error basis, the museum renewed the exhibition in 2021, and began holding workshops in 2023 for high school students to pass on lessons about the battle to their peers.

Recently, Japan has been reinforcing the defense capabilities of remote islands in the southwest amid tensions over the Senkaku Islands, a group of Tokyo-controlled uninhabited islets in the East China Sea that China claims and calls Diaoyu.

A conflict over Taiwan, which China views as its own, is also concerning for Japan, given the self-ruled island's proximity to Japan's southwestern islands including those in Okinawa Prefecture.

"Amid the growing concern over a Taiwan contingency, we would like to connect the feelings of the people who experienced the Battle of Okinawa to the people of today," Futenma, the museum director, said.

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Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has fought the UAW's organizing campaign in her state, but she may have crossed the legal line. (Julie Bennett / Associated Press)

Six Republican governors in the Deep South want their constituents to know that they're looking out for them.

That's why they issued a joint statement earlier this year condemning the organizing campaign launched by the United Auto Workers at auto plants across the region.

"As governors, we have a responsibility to our constituents to speak up when we see special interests looking to come into our state and threaten our jobs and the values we live by," the governors said.

We have one federal labor policy, not 50 different state policies, when it comes to union organizing and collective bargaining.

Benjamin Sachs, Harvard Law School

Three of the governors have gone further  signing laws denying state economic development subsidies to any employer that voluntarily recognizes a union (that is, without insisting on a formal vote by workers). They're Kay Ivey of Alabama, Brian Kemp of Georgia and Bill Lee of Tennessee.

These steps raise the question of whether those governors and other political leaders are breaching federal labor law by their actions, which could prompt the government to invalidate unsuccessful union votes and order new elections.

"We have one federal labor policy, not 50 different state policies, when it comes to union organizing and collective bargaining," says Benjamin Sachs, a professor of labor and industry at Harvard Law School and the author of a recent article examining how the actions of anti-union politicians may have illegally interfered with employees' right to "a free and untrammeled choice for or against" a union.

Sachs acknowledges that the rules governing federal preemption of state labor laws are murky about the conditions in which federal labor law would prevail, and also the point at which politicians' actions render union representation elections unfree and unfair  threshold findings that would prompt the National Labor Relations Board to invalidate an election and order a new vote.

Read more: Column: Inside the effort by two Beverly Hills billionaires to kill a state law protecting farmworkers

That said, "Alabama probably can't condition its economic incentives on the relinquishment of the federal right" to voluntary recognition of a union, Sachs told me. But he adds that how any such case unfolds would depend on the federal court that heard it.

Political interference in union organizing campaigns in the South isn't new. In 2014, Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee and the state's then-governor, Bill Haslam  both Republicans  threatened Volkswagen with retribution for taking a tolerant view of a UAW organizing campaign at its factory in Chattanooga.

One visiting VW executive referred positively to the labor-management "works councils" common in the company's home, Germany: "Volkswagen considers its corporate culture of works councils a competitive advantage," he said.

Corker, a former Chattanooga mayor, voiced an almost certainly specious claim that VW executives had assured him that the company would open a new SUV manufacturing line at the plant  if the workers turned the UAW down. A local VW executive denied that.

After losing the election, the UAW filed an unfair labor practices complaint with the NLRB, but ultimately withdrew it. The union lost another election at the plant in 2019, but two months ago it won a third election there, its first victory at an auto plant in the Deep South.

As the UAW stepped up its campaign to unionize other plants in the South, the region's Republican political leaders pushed back hard. In their joint statement, the governors of Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia, Mississippi, Texas and Tennessee accused the union of unspecified "misinformation and scare tactics."

Parroting an argument straight out of the corporate anti-union playbook, they said, The experience in our states is when employees have a direct relationship with their employers, that makes for a more positive working environment. They can advocate for themselves and what is important to them without outside influence." All six states have automobile plants that could be targeted by the UAW.

One question relevant to whether the governors have crossed over to engaging in unfair labor practices that could invalidate a union election, Sachs says, is whether the NLRB could judge them to be "agents" of the employers. In that case, the board might consider their actions to be tantamount to actions by an employer interfering with the workers' right to vote in a free and fair election.

Read more: Column: The UAW sends a lightning bolt into anti-union states with a huge victory at a VW plant

"It doesn't seem too crazy that the board might find the elected officials to be agents of the employers," Sachs says. In several cases in which an employer didn't disavow statements by elected officials warning a plant would close or there would be a loss of jobs if its workers voted to unionize, the board found the election to be unfair. In similar cases, the board does not have to find that there was direct contact between the politicians and the employer.

The chief target of the anti-union laws signed by Ivey, Kemp and Lee is the "card check" procedure, one of the two paths to union recognition under federal labor law  the other being a secret ballot. In the card check process, after more than 50% of employees at a workplace sign authorization cards seeking representation by a union, the employers can voluntarily recognize the union, waive any demand for a secret ballot among the workers, and participate in negotiations.

The Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee laws deny state economic incentives to companies that accept card check authorizations without demanding a secret ballot. They also forbid employers to voluntarily provide unions with contact information for employees without the workers' prior consent. These both are requirements that obviously make unionization drives harder.

Like other Republican state initiatives, the anti-unionization laws were incubated on the far right, specifically the Koch-backed American Legislative Exchange Council, or ALEC  the source of model laws aimed at cutting taxes, hamstringing healthcare reforms, privatizing public education, blocking environmental regulations and other such conservative hobby horses.

The anti-union laws in the three states are reproduced almost verbatim from a model law ALEC dubbed the "Taxpayer Dollars Protect Workers Act." To put it another way, neither the state legislators nor the governors had to break a sweat to draft and enact these measures  they were spoon-fed the texts.

Southern states are generally quite candid about their efforts to attract manufacturers by guaranteeing them a low-wage rank-and-file workforce and union-free factory floors. On its economic development web page, for example, Oklahoma even brags about how much lower than national averages are the median hourly wages in 12 occupational categories  $17.01 for machinists vs. $19 nationally, $26.17 vs. $30.75 for construction managers, and so on.

Oklahoma doesn't have any auto plants, but hope springs eternal. Oklahoma and the six states whose governors signed the anti-union letter are all "right-to-work" states, which ban contracts requiring all workers in a unionized workplace to be union members.

Read more: Column: The eight-hour workday was the paramount goal of unions in the 1800s. Is the four-day workweek next?

In signing Alabama's measure denying economic incentives to employers that voluntarily negotiate with unions, Ivey declared, "Alabama is not Michigan. ... We want to ensure that Alabama values, not Detroit values, continue to define the future of this great state."

She said a mouthful. The median annual wage in Alabama was $41,350 last year. In Michigan, where unions are popular, it was $46,940. That's higher than in any of the other states whose governors signed the anti-union letter. (The median wage in Mississippi, whose governor, Tate Reeves, signed the joint statement, was $37,500, the lowest in the nation.)

Whether states can use their economic incentives to ban card check recognition may have to be weighed by the courts. As John Fry of Harvard Law observed in a report earlier this year, states clearly can't outlaw card check agreements directly  such agreements are legal under federal law, which protects voluntary recognition of a union and the voluntary sharing of employee contact information.

As for wielding economic incentives as a weapon, the Supreme Court has ruled that states can impose labor-related rules mostly when they're applied to projects in which the states have a direct interest, such as public works projects.

But the issue is almost certain to come before the courts again; following its negotiating successes with the Big Three automakers last year, the UAW announced a two-year, $40-million campaign to organize nonunion plants "across the country, and particularly in the South."

The union lost a unionization election last month at Mercedes plants in Alabama, but has now turned its attention to a Hyundai plant in the same state. Politicians across the South are sure to react with ever more draconian laws and policies aimed at forestalling unionization. Will they be smart enough to keep on the right side of the legal line? Possibly, but that's not the way to bet.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
It is a terrifying showdown, an epic moment of truth that threatens to blow up the EU, trigger another Eurozone crisis and, just three days into his prime ministership, throw Sir Keir Starmers immigration and trade plans into disarray. In two weeks time, France will have either elected the most radical Right-wing populist government ever to control a nuclear power, opted for a rabidly anti-capitalist, anti-Western, far-Left coalition, or proved itself to be entirely ungovernable.

The centre wont hold. In extremis, President Emmanuel Macron may even have to resign. Chaos could overshadow the Olympics. I fear for the France I love, but above all I am angry at decades of failure by an arrogant, pseudo-meritocratic, overly Cartesian ruling class whose hatred of classical liberalism and disdain for conservative values are forcing the country into such an unpalatable choice.

The elections impact will be explosive. Macron has bequeathed a 5.5 per cent of GDP budget deficit and a 110 per cent of GDP national debt. These have already led to the countrys credit rating being downgraded and to the EU launching an investigation for breach of the stability and growth pact. French bond yields are surging in anticipation of drastic fiscal loosening whoever wins the election, potentially leading to a full-on financial crisis.

The Front Populaire  a miserable alliance of the extreme Left, socialists, communists, greens and assorted misfits  wants an immediate 50 billion a year tax increase and at least 106 billion extra a year in spending. It wants to raise income tax, reintroduce a punitive wealth tax, cap inheritances, jack up the minimum wage to 1,600 after tax a month and the pay of public sector workers by 10 per cent, cancel Macrons few positive reforms, and cut the retirement age to 62.

It will introduce gender self-ID, liberalise immigration, slap an embargo on arms sales to Israel and back the scandalous international court cases against the Jewish state. The manifesto is not just dementedly woke and Israelophobic but would bankrupt France, yet the Front Populaire is at 25 per cent in the polls.

Assuming we dont end up with a hung parliament, a Rassemblement National (RN) government led by Jordan Bardella, Marine Le Pens deputy, remains more likely. It is impossible to exaggerate the scale of the psychological shock that a Le Pen/Bardella victory would cause. The global great and good would be horrified. Swathes of French society, including many in the banlieues and unions, would be enraged.

There could be widespread disorder, violence, looting and strikes, leading to the most dangerous showdown since 1968. Some functionaries would refuse to co-operate. Financial markets would panic. The IMF, World Bank and White House will hate Bardellas net zero-defying tax cuts. He would slash VAT to 5.5 per cent from 20 per cent on carbon-intensive gas, energy and fuel, worth 17-24 billion a year, and cut contributions to the EU by 2 billion, both popular moves. But the deficit would rise, and  unlike with Liz Trusss supply-side agenda  there would be no long-term positive, pro-enterprise growth story as the RN is semi-socialist.

The European Central Bank may refuse to buy French bonds to stabilise the markets. The aim would be to humiliate Bardella and terminate Le Pens presidential aspirations, but the EU may find it harder to defeat France than it was to control the likes of Italy and Greece. France is at the heart of the EU system, and will be backed by Italys Giorgia Meloni. Bardella and his counter-elites may fight back successfully, threatening to withhold EU funding or cause havoc in other ways if they dont get their way.

Bardella wants to expel foreign criminals, abolish benefits paid to parents of delinquents, and end the practice whereby those born of foreign parents in France are entitled to French citizenship. But the reality is that the RNs broader agenda is incompatible with EU membership. It eventually seeks an immigration referendum that would slash numbers and reject most of the post-war rules on this subject. Le Pen and Bardella no longer say they want to leave the EU: the middle class fears a devaluation of their savings if the franc were reintroduced. But if he doesnt implode in his first few weeks, he will begin a gradual process of Frexit by stealth.

British Brexiteers must remember that the RN used to be called the Front National. Its first treasurer was Pierre Bousquet, a former Rottenfuhrer in the Waffen-SS Charlemagne Division. Jean-Marie Le Pen, who ran the party from 1972 to 2011, dismissed the Nazi gas chambers as a detail. The party was racist, anti-Semitic and Vichyite, and a magnet for skinheads and thugs. It was anti-Gaullist and anti-free market and obsessed with downplaying le marechal Philippe Petains despicable collaboration with the Nazis, Frances darkest hour.

But the party has changed dramatically since then, as even Macron has admitted; we can but hope that the transformation is real. Le Pen Sr was purged by his daughter Marine. She has rejected Petainisme, and is now pro-Israel and speaks out against anti-Semitism. She has belatedly turned against Putin. Eric Zemmours new party now outflanks the RN from its Right. Bardella is the grandson of Italian and Algerian immigrants.

Men and women are now equally likely to vote RN, and 26 per cent of 18- to 24-year-olds backed them in the European elections. Serge Klarsfeld, a Holocaust survivor and Frances pre-eminent Nazi hunter  who tracked down Klaus Barbie, the Gestapo butcher of Lyon, in Peru  now says that he will back the RN in the second round because it has changed. He is more afraid of the far Left. We will soon find out whether he is right, or whether he has been duped.

In the short term, chaos in France will be good for Starmers centrist credentials, though high-tax, post-non-dom London wont gain from any exodus of French millionaires. In the longer term, a RN victory would be a nightmare for Starmer, exposing Labours naive love of all things European as nonsensical and toxifying any rapprochement.

There will be no deal on Channel crossings, numbers will rocket as migrants flee a crackdown in France and the UK begins to look like a soft touch. Starmers pro-European Convention views would look outdated as the continent shifts Right-wards, emboldening the Tory or Reform opposition. The tectonic plates are shifting, and not just in France.

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A heat wave is expected in many parts of the U.S. this week.

Certain medications raise your risk of heat illnesses like heat stroke and exhaustion.

Doctors recommend caution if you take these medications.

The National Weather Service is warning about a record-breaking heat that will hit several parts of the U.S. this week. The Midwest, Great Lakes, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic will see the hottest temperatures of the summer so far. Youre probably aware that heat illnesses, like heat stroke and heat exhaustion, are a risk any time the temperatures soar. But you may not know that certain medications can also increase the odds youll struggle with a heat-related illness.

Knowing that this can happen is the first step, says Christina Inteso, Pharm.D., a clinical pharmacy specialist at Corewell Health. From there, you can monitor your body for symptoms.



Meet the experts: Christina Inteso, Pharm.D., a clinical pharmacy specialist at Corewell Health; Michael Levine, M.D., an emergency medicine physician at UCLA Health; Lewis Nelson, M.D., chair of emergency medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School

So, which medications raise your risk of heat-related illnesses and what can you do if you take them? Doctors explain.

Which medications raise your risk of heat illness?

There are a lot of different medications that can raise your risk of being susceptible to heat illness, and the potential issues they raise can vary. One of the biggest issues is medications that block your ability to sweat, says Lewis Nelson, M.D., chair of emergency medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.

If youre not able to sweat, you lose one of your body's normal mechanisms to cope with getting hot, explains Michael Levine, M.D., an emergency medicine physician at UCLA Health.

Some of these medications are more common than others. Doctors say these are the most common drugs that could increase the odds youll get sick in high heat.

Antidepressants

Some antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may impact your bodys ability to regulate your temperature, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They may also interfere with fluid balance in your body and increase sweating, raising the risk of dehydration.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are commonly used to treat allergies and allergic reactions. But antihistamines like promethazine, doxylamine, and diphenhydramine can interfere with your body temperature regulation and tamp down on your ability to sweat, according to the CDC.

Stimulants

Stimulants like amphetamines are often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But, research shows that these drugs, which interact with your central nervous system and brain, raise your body temperature, too.

Beta-blockers

Beta-blockers are a class of medications that are mostly used to treat cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure. But beta blockers can make it harder for people to sweat and appropriately cool themselves in hot weather, according to the CDC. They can also cause low blood pressure, raising the risk of fainting and falls, the CDC says.

Diuretics

These medications help reduce the buildup of fluid in the body, the Cleveland Clinic explains. Also known as water pills, they help your kidneys put extra salt and water into your urine and are often used to treat high blood pressure. But diuretics come with a risk of reduced thirst and excessive urination, which can raise the odds youll become dehydrated, the CDC says.

ACE inhibitors

ACE inhibitors are used to treat and manage high blood pressure, which is a big risk factor for heart disease, heart failure, stroke, and more. ACE inhibitors can lower your thirst sensation, making it more likely you wont take in enough fluids, per the CDC. They also may raise the risk youll faint or fall, Dr. Nelson says.

Thyroid hormone replacement medications

Thyroid replacement medications like levothyroxine are designed to raise low levels of natural thyroid hormones in the body, Medline Plus explains. The medication can also raise your temperature and cause excessive sweating, per the CDC. That could increase your risk of dehydration.

Antipsychotic medications

These drugs are used to treat psychosis that can happen with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and Alzheimers disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic. These medications can raise your risk of heat illness by messing with your ability to regulate your body temperature, making it difficult to sweat normally, and reducing your thirst sensation, the CDC says.

How to stay safe in the heat when you take these medications

If youre taking prescription medication, its important to continue to take it as directed by your doctor, Dr. Levine says. Dont not take medications that are prescribed to you, he says. If you are going to stop medications, it should be done in conjunction with your physician.

Dr. Nelson agrees. You should take your medications, but shouldnt put yourself in a situation where you could overheat, he says. If you can, Inteso recommends staying indoors when temperatures get especially high. But if you need to venture out, she suggests that you try to stay in the shade, consider a portable fan, stay hydrated, and take breaks from being outside.

Dr. Levine also recommends having a low threshold for getting into cooler temperatures. Be aware of your surroundings and your body, he says. If you start to get too hot, stop what youre doing and come inside.

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CAMBRIDGE The Southgate Parkway Bridge reopened ahead of schedule, and residents and businesses came together for a celebration on Tuesday.

Originally set to open sometime in August, favorable working conditions throughout the winter allowed progress to move rapidly on the build. The bridge closed to traffic in June 2023, as the Ohio Department of Transportation began the task of rebuilding it. Work on the $13.4 million bridge project actually began in late 2022 with preparations being done to the ground below the bridge and the surrounding areas.

Cambridge City Schools CATS campers make their way across the recently completed Southgate bridge in Cambridge on Tuesday.

A reopening ceremony opened with ODOT District Five Deputy Director Jason Sturgeon addressing the crowd and asking for a moment of silence in remembrance of fallen ODOT member Marty Crane, who was recently killed in a Muskingum County work zone incident.

Sturgeon noted, "The bridge is an integral connection to downtown Cambridge, which is why the opening, combined with all the hard work and dedication that has gone into completing the bridge project is what makes it so special for the community to use it."

Sturgeon continued to highlight some of the new bridge's features including the decorative parapets and lighting, which will be in place later this summer, the vandal protection fence, and the preservation of the Cambridge arch.

As he spoke, the first groups of people to cross the bridge for the day began to come into view. Students attending the Cambridge City Schools CATS camp arrived with camp counselors and Superintendent Dan Coffman. Herb Kenworthy, a veteran, former city councilman and lifelong Cambridge resident, and a spry 106-year-old Ruth Cincinat made their way with the group as well. Jaynell Bonham and her son Pete were also two of the honored residents asked to cross the bridge along with Guernsey County Sheriff Jeff Paden and his new 7-day-old grandson.

Jaynell Bonham (left) crosses newly reopened Southgate Parkway bridge with her son Pete (center) as they are greeted by Mayor Tom Orr.

Cambridge Mayor Tom Orr addressed the crowd next, thanking those who worked on the project and reflecting on how generations of Cambridge and Guernsey County residents have used the bridge.

As he spoke, he began to choke up while saying "I personally was 6 years old in 1967....I apologize about this. I seen my grandparents, one on Bishard Avenue on the south side, one was in the fairgrounds down on Park Avenue. And just like today, they came together. Just for a moment to talk to a couple of friends. Get out from behind those crazy computers and just be real. And they walked and marveled, and when we're done here today, I want you to do the same. Make yourself at home."

He continued, "The new bridge helps us heal some weaknesses from the first bridge with some design changes. Fencing and stamped walls and the heights and the curving and the extension of the sidewalk. Let us not forget as we celebrate this achievement, that this bridge brings also great responsibility."

Judy Deeks checks out the newly rebuilt Southgate Parkway bridge at the reopening celebration on Tuesday.

After speaking, the mayor gave a key to the city to ODOT District Five and one to the Ruhlin Company. The project manager for the Ruhlin Company, Marty Fritz, then addressed the group and thanked everyone for their work on the project.

A performance from the Cambridge City Band, led by Dr. Berk Jones, got the crowd excited as they played "Celebration" by Kool & the Gang as the ribbon was spread across the bridge.

Cambridge Mayor Tom Orr (third from left) gets help cutting the Southgate Parkway bridge from CATS campers and lifelong Cambridge resident Herb Kenworthy (center).

The CATS campers, the ODOT team, and members of the community held the ribbon, as Orr made the cut. Salvation Army Captain Ed McMillan dismissed the crowd with a prayer.

The $13.4 million bridge project actually began in late 2022 with preparations being done to the ground below the bridge and the surrounding areas.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Jeffersonian: Celebration marks reopening of Southgate Parkway Bridge in Cambridge
The food industry has faced increasing pressure in recent years to stop creating so much waste with its packaging materials. Now, several brands are listening, and the demand for sustainable, recyclable packaging is starting to grow, which has resulted in a new type of candy wrapper from Austrian packaging manufacturer Constantia Flexibles, Sustainable Packaging News reported.

Constantia's new product, named EcoTwistPaper, is a paper twist-wrap for confectionaries  the type of packaging you might find holding a Tootsie Roll or a Werther's Original, for example. The crucial difference between those twist-wraps and Constantia's is that EcoTwistPaper has no wax or plastic coating, making it entirely recyclable.

"Driven by our dedication to sustainability and addressing the demands of the confectionary industry, we developed EcoTwistPaper," executive vice president consumer commercial Marc Rademacher told Sustainable Packaging News. "This innovation represents a significant advancement within the confectionery packaging sector."

Though candy companies such as Mars have made past efforts to clean up some of the plastic wrappers they release into the world  particularly around Halloween, during which time Americans buy roughly 600 million pounds of candy every year  those efforts have relied on individual consumers seeking out ways to recycle their candy wrappers and have amounted to a drop in the bucket, anti-pollution advocates say.

"The onus cannot be on the customer to fix the massive plastic waste problem," Leah Karrer, a Washington, D.C.-based conservationist, told Phys.org. "The solution is system change."

In order to truly address the problem of candy packaging that ends up filling landfills, these companies need to move beyond single-use plastics and non-recyclable packaging, as Constantia has done with its EcoTwistPaper.

Other similar recent advancements in the food industry have included Heinz Ketchup's fully recyclable bottle cap, Kellogg's expanding its portfolio of eco-friendly boxes, and Aldi's recyclable butter packaging.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and actionable info that makes it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
Italy's Minister of Labor Marina Elvira Calderone and minister for Relations with Parliament Luca Ciriani during Question time at the Chamber of deputies. Roberto Monaldo/LaPresse via ZUMA Press/dpa

Italy's regions are to gain more autonomy from central government, after parliament approved a bill on Wednesday that allows regions to request the transfer of responsibilities from the state in order to manage certain areas themselves.

The controversial law, which was proposed by the right-wing government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, cleared the final legislative hurdle in the Chamber of Deputies.

Five of the country's 20 regions already have partial autonomy - the three regions of Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia and Valle d'Aosta in the north, as well as the large islands of Sicily and Sardinia. They will have even wider powers under the new arrangements.

The northern regions of Lombardy, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna are also in favour of the new law.

The less affluent regions in the south, however, fear that the state could withdraw from important portfolios such as health and education and that the population in the economically underdeveloped part of the country could experience disadvantages as a result.

There is great concern that they will receive less money from central government in future and that the wealth gap between northern and southern Italy will widen further.

The opposition, meanwhile, is worried that the law will lead to the "disintegration of Italy."

There were chaotic scenes in the chamber during a debate on the measure last week. A member of parliament from the opposition Five Star Movement was pushed by lawmakers from the governing parties in a heated dispute and fell to the floor.

Italy's Minister of Enterprises Adolfo Urso reacts during Question time at the Chamber of deputies. Roberto Monaldo/LaPresse via ZUMA Press/dpa
Convicted felon charged after found with firearms, meth, MDMA at Catawba County home: Sheriff

Convicted felon charged after found with firearms, meth, MDMA at Catawba County home: Sheriff

NEWTON, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A convicted felon was charged with possessing 77 grams of illegal drugs and five firearms at a Catawba County home Tuesday.

According to the Catawba County Sheriffs Office, members of the Special Enforcement Group executed a search warrant at a residence on Alan D. Good Lane in Conover.

Video: Masked man breaks into and steals from Catawba County business

During this search, officers allegedly seized 25.5 grams of methamphetamine, 51.6 grams of MDMA, five firearms and drug paraphernalia from the residence. An occupant, 32-year-old Xavier Latrell Smith, was arrested and has been charged with the following:

Trafficking in a Schedule I Controlled Substance

Possession with Intent to Sell or Deliver a Schedule II controlled substance

Maintaining a Dwelling to Manufacture Sell or Deliver a Controlled Substance

Five counts of Possession of Firearm by Felon, and

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Catawba County investigators were assisted by officers with N.C. Probation and Parole and the North Carolina Department of Adult Corrections Special Operations and Intelligence Unit.

Smith received a $700,000 secured bond and appeared Wednesday in Catawba County District Court.

He was convicted in 2013 for assault with a deadly weapon and attempted first-degree murder, and was charges with driving while intoxicated in April 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 Queen City News.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (AP)  A California judge ruled Monday that a man convicted of killing 19-year-old college student Kristin Smart in 1996 must pay just over $350,000 to her family for costs they incurred after her death.

Monterey County Superior Court Judge Jennifer OKeefe ordered Paul Flores to make the payments after a hearing last Wednesday, during which the family told the court how much they paid for travel, a private investigator, billboards seeking information, lost wages and a celebration of life gathering.

Its demeaning to Kristins memory to measure our loss in finances, her mother Denise Smart told The Tribune of San Luis Obispo after Wednesdays hearing. Our loss is Kristin.

The family had sought about $361,000 in restitution. OKeefe told the family that they could seek additional restitution if they wish to submit other expenses.

California courts require those convicted of crimes to compensate victims for the expenses that were caused, regardless of a defendants ability to pay. The state corrections department collects 50% of prison wages and money deposited in convicts trust account to pay restitution.

Smart went missing from California Polytechnic State University in May 1996. Prosecutors alleged she was killed during an attempted rape and that the last person she was seen with was Flores, a fellow student. Kristin Smart was declared legally dead in 2002.

A podcast called Your Own Backyard helped investigators crack the case by bringing forward additional witnesses. Flores and his father, Ruben Flores, were arrested in 2021.

Prosecutors alleged Kristin Smarts remains were buried on Ruben Flores property and later moved. He was acquitted of accessory charges.

Paul Flores was convicted in October 2022 and sentenced in March 2023 to 25 years to life. He has been physically attacked in prison twice since August 2023.

Denise Smart said last week that the family offered to forgo restitution if Flores would tell them where Kristins body was. Flores attorney, Harold Mesick, said the defense did not know where her remains are. Flores maintains his innocence, Mesick said.

Denise Smart said Monday that the offer remains open.

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.
Stanislaus County Sheriff Jeff Dirkse spoke out Friday against convicted pedophile Kevin Grays release, which he said would be in an unincorporated area west of Turlock.

Grays rap sheet for sex crimes against young children includes four convictions spanning from 1974 to 1992, with some of those being in Stanislaus County.

Gray has spent most his time since then incarcerated at a California state hospital in Coalinga. For years, he has tried to gain his freedom through the states Conditional Release Program, or CONREP. The process is lengthy and requires years of psychological evaluations and treatment, and Gray is on track to be released.

Our District Attorneys Office is working hard to keep this guy where he belongs, in a state hospital, Dirkse said in a video posted to the Sheriffs Offices Facebook page.

The sheriff pointed out that a possible location where Gray would be housed is near a bar. Gray was diagnosed with alcohol use disorder and admitted that he was drunk during some of his crimes. He said he was sober when he molested a girl at a Modesto arcade in 1992, though.

Gray also was diagnosed with pedophilia disorder, exhibitionist disorder and arousal by prepubescent children

Dirkse said he and the DAs Office are doing everything we can to fight this potential release. The Sheriffs Office announced it set up an email, SVPinfo@stansheriff.com, to which residents can send their concerns.

Tuesday, state Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil announced that she, District Attorney Jeff Laugero, the Sheriffs Office, Turlock Police Chief Jason Hedden, Stanislaus County Supervisor Vito Chiesa and Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke will hold a press conference on Friday, June 21, at the Turlock Police Department. Gil said she vehemently opposes Grays release.

What were Kevin Grays crimes?

In 1974, Gray was convicted of lewd acts and oral copulation with an 8-year-old girl. At the time, he lived in a low-income housing project in Los Angeles.

Outside of the Grays home, his wife would babysit a neighbors two daughters while taking care of his and her own child. One day, Grays wife sent one of the girls she was babysitting to the Gray household to retrieve something.

Gray, sitting on the couch, exposed himself when the girl walked in. This was a common tactic Gray used to groom children. In one psychological evaluation, he admitted that hed exposed himself to her before he molested her.

Gray sexually assaulted the girl, who told Grays wife what happened. The wife reportedly told the girl not to tell her mother about the incident, but the child did several days later, according to the documents.

The Los Angeles Police Department arrested Gray when the girls parents reported the matter. He spent several days in jail before posting bail. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 36 months of probation.

In 1979, Gray molested an 8-year-old girl after breaking into her home in Park County, Wyoming. Gray said he spotted the girl playing with her brother the day of the crime and went to her home that night.

He climbed through the window of the home and molested the girl as she slept. When the girl woke up and called for her parents, he escaped back out the window and lost his glasses. He returned to retrieve them the next day and was caught. He spent about a year in a state hospital for this crime.

In 1986, Gray was arrested for lewd acts with an 11-year-old girl. The crime occurred at a Ceres mobile home park where Gray and the girl both lived.

Gray groomed the girl by regularly giving her candy. One day, he asked the child to come inside to watch TV with him. While they were on the couch, Gray exposed himself. When the girl tried to leave, he grabbed her and pulled her back down onto the couch.

When Gray tried to cover a window, the girl ran out of residence and told her aunt. He was arrested and sentenced to eight years in state prison.

In 1993, Gray was arrested for molesting an 8-year-old girl at the Funworks arcade in Modesto. It was stated in the documents that Gray went to the arcade with the intent to molest and was exposing himself to children before this specific crime.

Gray spotted a girl playing a game and pushed himself up against her. When she walked away, he followed her and then groped her. The girl went and told a chaperon but Gray was not caught. He was spotted by the chaperon several weeks later and arrested. Gray was sentenced to 18 years in prison for this.

Gray has admitted that he either touched or fondled about 50 girls between the ages of 8 and 11 over the years. He also admitted that he engaged in about 1,000 acts of indecent exposure.

Gray said he did it so often that he lost track of the numbers, his 2020 evaluation reads.

What treatment has Gray received?

Gray has been incarcerated at the state hospital in Coalinga since his 1992 prison sentence was completed. During his time, hes undergone extensive psychological evaluations resulting in hundreds of pages of documents.

His treatments included taking medication and psychological therapy through the Sexual Offender Treatment Program, or SOTP. Gray had completed up to module four, the highest one can go before release. The major points of the program are treatment needs and progress assessment, a thoughts and fantasy polygraph and a penile plethysmograph.

According to a 2024 evaluation, Gray had appeared to be experiencing more comfort in openly sharing his thoughts, events leading up to those thoughts and what he finds to be most effective in managing the thoughts.

These pop-up thoughts are referenced frequently in the evaluations. Gray still has sexual fantasies about children and has been trained to identify and extinguish them with activity that distracts and thought replacements. The thoughts were listed as typical for someone with his diagnoses.

Grays latest CONREP liaison report states that he has demonstrated good self-judgment, shown effective use of therapy and progress in identifying and reducing his risk factors and was a non-responder on the penile plethysmograph test.

Recommendations are that he continue to follow the rules and ensure maintenance of his progress and seek opportunities to further develop any tools that may help him to integrate into the community, reads his 2024 evaluation.

If released into a CONREP housing facility, Gray will be required to continue treatment and could be subjected to restrictions such as not being able to travel, work or drive, among any others an official may deem necessary. He may also be subject to continued polygraph tests, surveillance and GPS tracking.

Grays conditions for his release had not been made available as of June 18.
KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 08:17 | All, Podcast

Learn about what goes into covering global summits.

Three Kyodo News journalists -- Yamaguchi-san, Peter and Tachikawa-san -- talk about the trilateral summit between Japan, South Korea and China held in May, in which the three leaders confirmed the importance of North Korean denuclearization. Tachikawa-san, who covered the event in Seoul, describes the complex ties between the three countries and how geopolitics shape global meetings.

Article mentioned in the podcast:

Japan, South Korea, China to pursue North Korea denuclearization: Kishida

Kyodo News presents a bilingual podcast for English learners about the ins and outs of news writing and how to translate tricky Japanese phrases into English. Have fun listening to journalists discuss recent articles as they occasionally go off on unrelated tangents.

Recent episodes:

Podcast [English World] Episode 49: Customer abuse

Podcast [English World] Episode 48: Palestinians in Japan

Podcast [English World] Episode 47: Gadgets for the visually impaired
NICHOLS, N.Y. (WETM)  A Corning woman was arrested in June after police say she ran from officers following a traffic stop in Tioga County, NY.

According to the Tioga County Sheriffs Office, 33-year-old Mary J. Petitt was arrested on Saturday, June 8, on several charges after a traffic stop in the Town of Nichols.

Police say that Petitt was giving a false name to officers during a stop, and then attempted to run from police on foot, only to give her real name after being arrested.

Three arrested after Ithaca burglary incident

Police say that Petitt was wanted as a fugitive from justice out of Bradford County on the charge of manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver.

As a result of her arrest, Petitt was charged with impersonation in the second degree, and obstruction in the second degree, both class A misdemeanors.

Police say that Petitt was processed in the Tioga County Court before she was taken to the Tioga County, NY jail pending extradition to Pennsylvania.

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 WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Could Labours left-wing cull come back to haunt the party at the general election?

With the general election only days away, polling would suggest Labour is on track to win by a landslide. The latest figures put the party an average 20 points ahead of the flailing Conservatives, with as many 453 seats projected to turn red on July 4.

But despite the positive turn for the party, which has been in opposition for 14 years, it saw what may have been its most damaging row under Sir Keir Starmer at the end of May, as a fierce factional fallout took over its ranks.

It came after the partys governing body moved to bar several parliamentary candidates on the left of the party from standing at the upcoming general election. These included Faiza Shaheen, who is now standing independently, and Diane Abbott, who regained her candidacy following outrage both locally and nationally.

The row represented the culmination of a debate that has gripped Labours ranks since Sir Keir first became leader in 2019. It has left many voters with left-wing or progressive values feeling abandoned by the party, and unsure of where to go.

Sir Keir has changed the party, a fact he regularly draws upon in his campaigning. Both in policy position and in rhetoric, the North London MP made clear his desire to draw a line between himself and the partys previous, more radical politics.

In doing so, his shadow cabinet has taken softer stances on issues such as public spending, welfare, and international issues like the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. It was inevitable that some supporters of those policies would become alienated as the partys priorities shifted.

Sir Keir Starmer, Angela Rayner and Rachel Reeves (Lucy North/PA) (PA Wire)

In terms of the calculated decision Starmer has made, looked at purely from electoral logic, it makes sense, says Luke Tryl, Executive Director of the More in Common research group.

If Starmer was going to win back those voters Labour lost, particularly in places like the red wall, he was going to have to convince them that he had changed the Labour party and that it was different to what had come before under Corbyn.

Many argue that Sir Keirs move away from the left as Labour leader is a necessary gambit: in giving up part of the left-leaning vote, the party can work to resecure much more electorally slippery middle-ground voters, many of whom were lost in 2019.

But has the Labour leader gone too far?

Ive always voted Labour, and this will be the first time I wont, says Ranil Hewavisenti, 66, a resident of Chingford and Woodford Green.

It is sad, but I did see it coming since Starmers been elected.

Its a chilly, drizzly evening, but hes still out on the steps in north-east London, campaigning for now-independent candidate Faiza Shaheen, who he also knocked doors for in 2019 when she ran for Labour.

Ms Shaheen was barred for liking 14 tweets  some before she was a Labour member  which were deemed antisemitic or otherwise against the values of the party. In an emotional interview with BBCs Newsnight on May 29, she revealed she was in a state of shock, having only received the news a few hours prior.

Faiza Shaheen is interviewed on BBC Newsnight hours after her deselection is confirmed (BBC Newsnight)

Taking to Twitter/X to voice her frustrations over Ms Shaheens treatment, Diane Abbott accused the party of undertaking an appalling  cull of left-wingers. The veteran MP was still embroiled in a deselection row herself at the time.

Sir Keir quickly denied Ms Abbotts assertion. The Labour leader says that the partys selection process is independent of his leadership and not based on factional preferences.

I want the highest quality candidates as we go forward, he told reporters. Im not picking a fight with anyone.

But Sir Keir has changed the Labour party. Making his first major speech after the general election was called, Sir Keir said he could be trusted because he had remodelled the party permanently," signalling a shift away from its ill-fated 2019 campaign under previous leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Later on the campaign trail, the north London MP even described the Conservatives 2024 manifesto as Jeremy Corbyn-style, due to policies which he called unrealistic and uncosted.

Mr Corbyn seems unbothered by the criticism from his former Brexit secretary. Im going to start charging rent for the peoples heads I live in, he says, sat in a busy cafe in his Islington North constituency.

He imagines that everyone in the country is worrying their heads about [me], theyre not. Most people are worrying about how theyre going to pay their bills. Theyre worrying where theyre going to live.

Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn and Sir Keir Starmer in 2019 (Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Labour membership figures hit a peak of 532,000 under Mr Corbyns leadership in 2019, dropping to 366,60 in 2024. The numbers might suggest dissatisfaction with the party, but its impossible to ignore the polling.

The most recent data from YouGov suggests that Labour is on track to win by a landslide. The respected research group predicts that the party could increase its seats by 220, to 422. The Tories are projected to gain only 140.

Mr Corbyn will now be running without the support of his buoyant former party for the first time since 1983. He is positive about his campaign: the veteran MP has held his seat at ten general elections, and clearly expects to do so again in July.

But pollsters are not so sure, and he admits that running as an independent candidate is not without its difficulties.The electoral law and electoral spending limit, its all designed to sustain a two-party system, he says.

Its not designed to encourage wider democratic participation.

A similar story is unfolding in Chingford and Woodford Green, where Ms Shaheens supporters are learning to run an independent campaign as they go.

A group of canvassers set off from an unassuming flat in Chingford. Most of them are former Labour voters, with 50 members of the local party recently resigning from the party in protest of Ms Shaheens deselection.

But it soon becomes clear that every doorstep requires more explanation: So, shes not the Labour candidate anymore?; and more convincing: I dont want to split the vote.

Faiza Shaheen and then-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn at a rally in 2019 (Gareth Fuller/PA) (PA Archive)

And its this last point that would seem to hold back independent candidates the most. The Tories majority over Labour in Chingford in 2019 was only 1,262 votes. This was Labours best-ever result in the constituency, delivered by Ms Shaheen. Any votes not given to the party there in July stand to have a big impact.

Mr Tryl, of the research firm, says this is the factor that will likely ensure most Labour voters who are disenchanted with Sir Keir still stick to the party come July, and dont vote for an independent candidate or smaller party like the Greens. If it does cause Labour problems, it will be in isolated seats, he says.

My median assumption is that the Greens will have a very good result in Bristol Central  but it is hard to see Green gains across the board.

Green co-leader Carla Denyer is their candidate in Bristol Central, where the party is projected to win for the very first time. She says that voters from across the political spectrum have become more comfortable giving their votes to the party, and the numbers are there.

Over the last five local elections, the Greens have increased their local councillors nearly fivefold, up to 812 today.

It certainly is true that Labours slide to the right and abandoning of lots of policy pledges is turning out to be the final straw for a lot of people, Ms Denyer acknowledges. "And now weve got quite a few people out door knocking with us who were Labour voters or even members last time around.

One glance at the Green partys manifesto and you can see why this trend may have taken hold. An explicit vow to protect the NHS from privatisation, higher taxes from top earners, nationalising railways, water and energy.

For their part, Labour hasnt given up more radical policies completely. Their 2024 offerings include improved workers rights, a publicly-owned energy company, and introducing a new tax on private schools. But the Green Partys manifesto promises far higher revenue raising and public spending measures than any of the large parties.

Green Party parliamentary candidates Sian Berry, Carla Denyer, Adrian Ramsay and Ellie Chowns (PA) (PA Wire)

I think its worth saying that the Greens have always been in this position, Ms Denyer adds. Its Labour whos blown with the wind left and right depending on where they think they can get the most votes.

But recent polls indicate that its unlikely the party is going to simply mop up all of Labours disillusioned voters.

I think a more reasonable concern to the Labour party is what happens should they get into government, says Mr Tryl.

The low enthusiasm doesnt damage them electorally, but means that they have a very short honeymoon period. Things could turn south quite quickly.

Projections suggests that most will stick with Sir Keirs Labour party to remove the current Conservative government. The challenge for the leader will come afterwards: will he attempt to unite his broad coalition of support as prime minister, or move his policies ever further away from the radical agenda he first pushed when he entered politics in 2015?

Either way, his predecessor believes it will be a formative time for UK politics: You know what? says Mr Corbyn, this might be the development of some very interesting political trends in Britain.
It was nearly a year ago that Los Angeles City Councilmember Kevin de Leon celebrated the start of a multimillion-dollar renovation of Pershing Square in downtown L.A.

The ceremony marked the beginning of the park's transformation, with construction crews expected to turn the concrete space into a more accessible and attractive public square by demolishing walls, lowering the park to street level and adding greenery.

Now, the 5-acre park, nestled between Olive and Hill streets, will get not only a new look but also, quite possibly, a new identity.

On Wednesday, De Leon announced he intends to rename Pershing Square after Biddy Mason, who was born into slavery and won her freedom in court and became a philanthropist and unsung hero of Los Angeles, founding the citys First African Methodist Episcopal Church, one of the largest Black churches in the U.S.

De Leon unveiled his plans on Juneteenth, the federal holiday marking the date in 1865 when Union soldiers informed the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, that they were free. It also comes as De Leon faces a tough reelection campaign, and is looking to move past a nearly two-year-old scandal over his participation in a secretly recorded conversation that featured racist and derogatory remarks.

Since then, De Leon has apologized to the Black community and the city as a whole. Standing in Pershing Square, he dismissed the idea that the proposal is linked to the scandal or his re-election, saying he has had talks with Biddy Mason's descendants about ways of honoring her since February 2022.

"This is a recognition of an incredible woman who was a huge, huge property owner in downtown Los Angeles, a woman who fought courageously to secure her freedom in a court of law in Los Angeles," he said an interview. Renaming Pershing Square will be "a true reflection of who she is, and the impact that she has had in downtown Los Angeles."

The park is currently named after military hero Gen. John J. Pershing, who commanded the U.S. armed forces during World War I and was awarded General of the Armies, the highest military rank in the U.S.

Biddy Mason (Seaver Center for Western History Research)

De Leon said he is confident his colleagues will vote to support the park renaming. He also plans to submit a separate motion to add a ceremonial street sign on Spring Street, between 1st and 5th streets, to honor her.

The proposal to rename Pershing Square was welcomed by Cheryl Cox, one of Mason's great-great-great-great-granddaughters. Mason accomplished "remarkable feats" that, during the 19th century, were "unprecedented for people of color, let alone a woman born into slavery in 1818," Cox said.

After securing her freedom, Mason amassed extensive property holdings in Los Angeles, helping the needy both in her role as a businesswoman and as a philanthropist.

"She is an American story, an American heroine, and she deserves all the honors that can be bestowed on her," said Cox, standing in front of a small audience at Pershing Square.

Cox said the park renaming would elevate the city's understanding of Mason at a time when few parks are named for women or people of color.

"Having something like a park that is historic, and was around when she was alive and has been a central part of the city, is a great step in the right direction for her receiving the recognition for what she has done, said Cox's sister, UC Riverside professor Robynn Cox.

Nick Griffin, executive vice president of DTLA Alliance, a coalition of more than 2,000 property owners, said his group is also thrilled with the park's proposed name change.

I think tapping into the powerful legacy [of] Biddy Mason is almost a perfect fit for the revitalization of a park that has also been to some extent forgotten over the years, he said. I think both the park and her legacy will benefit from a rediscovery.

Pastor Stephen "Cue" Jn-Marie, who is based in Skid Row, was troubled by the announcement, calling it "another example of people using Black folks for political gain." Jn-Marie, who called for De Leon resignation two years ago, said he would support the park renaming  as long as De Leon is not involved.

"It just seems like Kevin de Leon is trying to save his career at this point," he said.

Mason was born into slavery in the Deep South in the summer of 1818. At a young age, she was sold and purchased by enslavers, developing skills in herbal medicine and midwifery.

At 18, she and her sister were sold to Mississippi plantation owner Robert Smith. In 1847, Smith converted to Mormonism and relocated his family to Utah to help establish a Mormon community. Mason walked behind a 300-wagon caravan for months, cooking and herding cattle while caring for the Smiths' children as well as three of her own, including an infant.

In 1851, the Smiths relocated from Utah to San Bernardino. By then, California had been admitted to the Union, and slavery was illegal. Eventually, Mason fought for her freedom in court, with the judge ruling in her favor and that of Smith's other slaves.

Read more: Kevin de Leon says he deserves another chance. Critics say hes gaslighting L.A.

Her case was one of the first legal challenges to slavery in Los Angeles and set a precedent for others to petition for their freedom in California.

Mason then went to work as a nurse and midwife, saving $2.50 a day until she had enough to buy land between Broadway and Spring Street, where she built her home.

She continued to purchase real estate throughout the city. By 1878, Mason had become a wealthy landowner, eventually selling some of her properties for as much as 10 times their original price.

Her philanthropy grew alongside her wealth. She was known to pay the annual property taxes for local churches. She started First AME out of her home. She also built the first school and foster home for Black children. In 1884, when a storm caused the Los Angeles River to swell and sweep away homes, Mason paid a grocery store to give away food to flood victims, regardless of color. She helped so many people that she was fondly referred to as "Aunty" or "Grandma Mason."

Mason died in 1891 and was soon forgotten. Then in 1988, First AME placed a headstone on her unmarked grave at Evergreen Cemetery. The following year, a walkway off of Spring and 3rd Streets in downtown was erected in her honor.

De Leon said he viewed that area as dark and secluded  and an insufficient way of honoring Mason's accomplishments.

Cheryl and Robynn Cox said they had long tried to get a street renamed after their ancestor, with no luck. Two years ago, they approached De Leon and his team with their request. They dont recall when conversations shifted to Pershing Square.

Cheryl Cox and her sister said they couldnt speak to De Leon's motives.

We want to keep the focus just on our grandmother, Robynn Cox said.

We dont condone what was said and what was not said in the audio leak featuring De Leon, Cheryl Cox said. But it should not in any way disparage from our grandmother, nor her legacy, nor what the city should be doing for her.

De Leon, for his part, said the park renaming is only his latest effort to recognize Angelenos  especially people of color  who have made contributions to the city.

"Cynical eyes will always be around," he said. "You can't change cynical."

Pershing Square is shown in 2020. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

On a recent afternoon, there were few visitors at Pershing Square. Amid the din of traffic, hissing buses and loud stereos, the playground sat empty, and men lay on the grassy strips, napping under the sun. Along the square's pathways, homeless people took up what few shaded areas were available; some used drugs openly.

Its not very people-friendly. Theres no shade, said Gayle Baigelman, 63, as she walked her gray pit bull, Hope. And you can see who is usually drawn to this place.

She said shed heard about the parks renovation and was looking forward to the transformation. She also approved of the proposed renaming.

Thats definitely the right person to honor.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Couple Says Their Amazon Delivery Came with a 'Live Snake in Package,' Shares Video of Reptile in Box

A couple living in Bengaluru, India, claim they found a live cobra in the box containing their delivery

Viral Press A snake attached to an Amazon package

A couple expecting to receive an Xbox controller from Amazon claims they also found a dangerous live snake in the box.

On June 14, Tanvi and her husband, engineers who live in Bengaluru, India, purchased the item from Amazon, according to the Associated Press and Economic Times.

Two days later, the package containing the controller was delivered to their home. The couple told AP they were home for the delivery and took the box from the delivery driver, so the package did not spend time sitting outside their home.

'The package was directly handed over to us by the delivery partner and not left outside. We live on Sarjapur road and captured the entire incident on camera, plus we have eyewitnesses," Tanvi told AP.

Tanvi and her husband added that they opened the box shortly after receiving it and found a spectacled cobra inside. Cobras are venomous snakes. According to the couple, the snake was stuck to the adhesive of the tape sealing the box. After finding the snake inside the box stuck to the tape, Tanvi filmed the wildlife encounter.

Related: Invasive Fish Species with Snake Head Found Once Again in Missouri

"Ordered an Xbox controller from @amazonIN and received a free snake  with it!" Tanvi wrote on X alongside a clip of the snake wriggling inside the box while stuck to the package.

In response to PEOPLE's request for comment on this incident, Amazon shared the following statement: "The safety of our customers, employees, and associates is a top priority for us. We take all customer complaints seriously and are investigating this incident."

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.

After filming the snake, the couple put the box with the cobra in a bucket and waited for wildlife officials to handle the animal, per AP.

Tanvi told the outlet she reported the incident to an Amazon Help customer representative. She received the response: "We're sorry to know about the inconvenience you've had with the Amazon order. We'd like to have this checked. Please share the required details here, and our team will get back to you soon with an update."

Related: Woman Shares Her Car with Venomous Snake for Weeks After 4 Failed Attempts to Remove the Reptile

Tanvi said Amazon also gave her a refund for the controller, but she still has concerns.

"This is clearly a safety breach caused solely by Amazon's negligence and their poor transportation or warehousing hygiene and supervision," she said. "Where is the accountability for such a serious lapse in safety?"

The cobra has since been caught and released by wildlife officials, according to the AP.

The spectacled cobra is one of four species of snakes that deliver most of the snakebites in India, according to Britannica.

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Read the original article on People.
A Whatcom County Superior Court Commissioner declined Monday to enter a permanent domestic violence protection order against a Bellingham Police Department sergeant who was accused of domestic and sexual violence earlier this year.

Following roughly 4.5 hours of testimony split over two days in May and June, Whatcom County Superior Court Commissioner Ann Vetter-Hansen said Monday, June 17, that she had insufficient evidence to issue a two-year domestic violence protection order against Bellingham Police Department Sgt. Joshua Richard McKissick, 44.

Vetter-Hansen said in court Monday that she found McKissicks testimony more credible than the womans for a multitude of reasons.

The manner and substance of Mr. McKissicks testimony is more persuasive to the court than the substance of (the womans) testimony, Vetter-Hansen said, while explaining her ruling. Maam that does not mean that some of what youve alleged did not happen. It means that this stranger, looking at the vast amount of evidence presented over a couple of court days, hasnt to me met the burden of the preponderance of the evidence. I hope the take home point is that you dont feel completely invalidated by this process, although Im sure its very frustrating.

In late February a woman known to McKissick came forward alleging that McKissick abused her. She filed a request with the court seeking a two-year domestic violence protection order against him. She also sought a court order that required McKissick to surrender his firearms and other weapons, and prohibited him from possessing them, The Bellingham Herald previously reported.

The court signed temporary domestic violence protection and weapons surrender orders Feb. 26 while the case proceeded to a full hearing on the merits of the allegations. The hearing for the requested permanent protection order was postponed three times  once in March, once in April and again in May  in part due to issues and timelines affecting evidence and because the commissioner was unavailable.

The hearing for the permanent order began May 9 and included roughly two hours of testimony from the woman. The continuation and conclusion of that hearing occurred Monday, and included roughly 2.5 hours of testimony from McKissick.

The commissioner dismissed the case following her ruling on Monday, June 17. In issuing the denial order, the commissioner checked the box citing insufficient evidence as the reason for the denial.

A preponderance of the evidence does not support issuing any type of protection order that this court has authority to issue, the denial order states. The temporary domestic violence protection order expired the same day, according to court records.

The woman has 10 days to file a request with the court seeking revision or review by a Superior Court judge. Because of this 10-day filing window, the temporary order prohibiting McKissick from possessing weapons or firearms was extended. It will expire Thursday, June 27, if the woman does not file by that time. If she does, the order will be continued until the matter is resolved or until July 15, according to court records.

We are disappointed in the ruling. The safety of the petitioner and her children is our highest priority, said Kelsey Hathaway, the womans attorney, in an emailed statement sent Wednesday, June 18, to The Herald.

The Bellingham Herald has reached out to McKissicks attorney for comment.

It is Bellingham Herald policy to avoid identifying potential victims of domestic and sexual violence when possible.

Administrative leave

McKissick has been on paid administrative leave from the Bellingham Police Department, in accordance with department policy, since Feb. 27, following the court-ordered weapons surrender and temporary domestic violence protection orders.

He had previously been removed from patrol duties and placed on administrative desk duty Dec. 6 after Bellingham police became aware of a report made to another law enforcement agency alleging McKissick had perpetrated domestic and sexual violence against a woman known to him.

An internal administrative investigation into the allegations was also launched the same day, The Herald previously reported.

The Lynden Police Department handled the criminal investigation into the allegations against McKissick, while the Everett Police Department was asked to conduct the internal administrative investigation.

Lynden polices criminal investigation, which started in February, was completed the last week of April. The case file was then sent to the Whatcom County Prosecuting Attorneys Office for review and determination of possible charges, before it was then conflicted out to the Skagit County Prosecuting Attorneys Office.

The Skagit prosecutors office declined May 21 to file criminal charges against McKissick. Skagit County senior deputy prosecuting attorney Branden Platter, who was assigned the case May 8, said the case involved allegations of sexual assault and criminal harassment, which included threats of bodily harm.

I did not find sufficient evidence to support any criminal charges of either harassment or any crimes of sexual assault. I have notified Lynden Police Department and the Whatcom County Prosecutors Office that I have declined filing any charges in this matter, Platter told The Herald in a previous statement.

The internal administrative investigation had been placed on hold until after the criminal investigation had been completed by Lynden police. The internal investigation resumed May 23 and is ongoing, according to Everett Police Department Deputy Chief Jeraud Irving.

Everett police is handling the administrative investigation on Bellingham polices behalf to avoid any appearance of bias.

We are aware a Whatcom County Superior Court Commissioner yesterday declined to enter a two-year-long domestic violence protection order against Bellingham Police Sgt. Joshua McKissick. An internal administrative investigation is still underway. Sergeant McKissick remains on paid administrative leave, in accordance with City and Bellingham Police policy, Janice Keller, a city spokesperson, said in an emailed statement sent Wednesday, June 18, to The Herald.

Bellingham Police Department Sgt. Joshua McKissick smiles for a photo March 17, 2017. A Whatcom County Superior Court commissioner issued a temporary immediate domestic violence protection order Feb. 26, 2024 against McKissick and required him to surrender all weapons after a woman known to McKissick came forward alleging he physically and sexually abused her. The court declined to enter a permanent protection order Monday, June 17, 2024, following two hearings on the evidence.

History with department

McKissick has been employed with the Bellingham Police Department since February 2007, according to public records obtained by The Herald.

He was promoted to sergeant in February 2021, according to previous posts on Bellingham polices Facebook page.

McKissick was also a member of Bellingham polices SWAT team in October 2015, according to Herald archives.

A city of Bellingham spokesperson declined to answer questions regarding McKissicks hire date, rank, duties while in that rank, and whether hes still a member of the SWAT team. Court documents filed in the case show McKissick was still performing SWAT duties as of July 2023.

In a fall 2019 edition of a city of Bellingham newsletter it was stated that McKissick became a neighborhood officer in 2019. He was responsible for 13 neighborhoods north of Whatcom Creek, according to the newsletter.

McKissick also provided a wide variety of safety-related training on various topics, such as de-escalation, active shooter response and workplace and personal safety training. He also did work with the then-mayors neighborhood advisory commission, according to the newsletter.

Allegations and response

The womans request for a protection order alleged a wide range of concerning behaviors, including concerns with McKissicks mental health, substance abuse, suicidal ideations and hallucinations, and more.

The woman alleged McKissick subjected her to a significant amount of emotional abuse, as well as sexual abuse. She also alleged that McKissick controlled her and her actions, including her finances, The Herald previously reported.

In his 238-page response to the womans allegations that he filed with the court, McKissick denied that he ever sexually or physically abused the woman or controlled her. He also denied the remainder of the womans accusations.

As part of his response, McKissick included documentation that included his work attendance records showing the times he was away from work, records that show he surrendered a dog the woman claimed he abused and killed in the woods to the Whatcom Humane Society, and numerous character references from family and friends. He also provided text messages and between him and the woman and their attorneys, court documents show.

McKissicks response alleged that the woman told him in a phone call between the two of them in September that she was going to ruin his life. McKissick said the woman told him she would take his children from him, that she would call the police and say he drove drunk with children in the car, that she would damage his reputation and career and she would be his worst nightmare, according to court records.

McKissick said he made detailed notes immediately following the phone call with the woman, and that he then reached out to his superiors through his chain of command to notify them of the phone call. McKissick provided a late February 2024 email from a deputy chief with Bellingham police recalling McKissick notifying him of the phone call to the court for review in determining whether to grant the womans two-year protection order.

The email stated that while the deputy chief did not recall the exact wording McKissick used to inform him of the phone call with the woman, he did remember that McKissick told him the woman said she would destroy McKissick, ruin his reputation and make McKissick pay for everything, The Herald previously reported.

Bellingham Police Departments new logo is shown on the side of one of the departments armored trucks.

McKissicks response to the womans domestic violence protection order petition also alleged the woman knew that law enforcement policy requires any allegation of domestic violence made against a department employee be investigated, and that the agency would put the accused person on administrative or reassignment leave in accordance with department policy.

The Petitioner knew that simply an allegation of domestic violence would have a significant impact on my career as a law enforcement officer, McKissick wrote in his response. I wanted nothing more than to be free from her and move on with my life, the court records state.

In his filing, McKissick alleged the domestic violence allegations and petition for protection were filed after separate court proceedings between him and the woman soured. In a March interview with Lynden police, McKissick told a detective he felt like Im being legally abused, according to court records.

Courts decision

In making her decision to deny the protection order request, Vetter-Hansen, the commissioner, cited roughly 20 reasons why she felt McKissicks testimony and documentation were more credible.

She said McKissick corroborated a significant amount of his claims, while the woman was unable to do the same for hers. Vetter-Hansen said she understood that that was not always possible in these types of cases, but that it was a factor that she looked at when considering whether to issue a permanent protection order.

Vetter-Hansen said the evidence presented to the court did not match the severity of the allegations made regarding concerns about McKissicks mental health and substance use. She said while she acknowledges that there are plenty of people in this world who are high functioning while having serious problems, she did not have sufficient information to deem those allegations against McKissick credible.

It doesnt pass a basic smell test, Vetter-Hansen said in court Monday.

She said there were also inconsistencies in the testimony and timelines given for certain events, not only provided in court but in some of the law enforcement interviews that were conducted as part of both the criminal and internal affairs investigations into the allegations against McKissick.

Vetter-Hansen said she found no evidence of coercive control or that McKissick controlled the womans friend group or finances. She said the domestic and sexual violence claims against McKissick contained broad stroke allegations that became more specific over time. Vetter-Hansen said she understood it was difficult for people to discuss such things and that victims are not always forthcoming, in part because they can feel pressured or uncomfortable providing intimate details of their lives while in such a public venue.

She said while she factored that in to her decision, she said she found the broad stroke allegations not as authentic as the specific evidence that was presented in the case.

Bellingham Police Department Sgt. Joshua Richard McKissick, 44, appears Thursday, April 11, 2024, in Whatcom County Superior Court for a domestic violence hearing after a woman sought a protection order alleging McKissick abused her.

Vetter-Hansen said there were also additional details shared during testimony and documentation from the woman and McKissick that she weighed in making her decision, such as the removal of firearms from McKissicks home prior to the woman seeking a protection order from the court; and the volume, nature and timeline of the communications between McKissick and the woman.

Unlikely things happen all the time in these cases. Every unhappy family is unique in their own way. Im aware of these things, but its the cumulative nature, Vetter-Hansen said, in referring to the communications between McKissick and the woman shared with the court. I did see that (the woman) was under great stress at the last hearing. I do not doubt that there was some unhappiness between the two of you.

The commissioner also said she was persuaded that there were threats made by the woman to impact McKissicks career, his relationship with his children and his reputation. Vetter-Hansen, who has a background in family law, said she was well aware that people are often not their best selves, and are human and can say things they dont mean while under stress in these types of cases.

But Im persuaded that that happened, and in the grand scheme of when Im evaluating credibility, thats something that I take into account, Vetter-Hansen said of the alleged threats made by the woman.

The commissioner said it was telling that multiple law enforcement agencies and the Whatcom prosecutors office were contacted by the woman when she came forward with her allegations.

Given the prior threats and the severity of the allegations, I wouldnt be doing my due diligence if I didnt consider the underlying motive in my analysis, Vetter-Hansen said to the half-full courtroom Monday.

I want you to hopefully hear me when I say this is all very abstract and removed from your day to day lives. I understand that despite the big, voluminous evidence, this is just a snapshot in time ... I wasnt there, and I acknowledge that, Vetter-Hansen said, addressing both McKissick and the woman. So as an outsider looking in, thats my conclusion about this case.

Resources

 Brigid Collins Family Support Center: 360-734-4616, brigidcollins.org

Brigid Collins Family Support Center professionals are on-call between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, to answer questions about children, families, abuse prevention or treatment at (360) 734-4616.

 Child Protective Services: Washington state hotline for reporting child abuse and neglect, 866-829-2153.

 Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services: 24-hour Help Line: 360-715-1563, Email: info@dvsas.org.

 Lummi Victims of Crime: 360-312-2015.

 Tlils Taaaltha Victims of Crime: 360-325-3310 or nooksacktribe.org/departments/youth-family-services/tlils-taaaltha-victims-of-crime-program/

 Bellingham Police: You can call anonymously at 360-778-8611, or go online at cob.org/tips.

 WWU Consultation and Sexual Assault Support Survivor Advocacy Services: 360-650-3700 or wp.wwu.edu/sexualviolence/.

If you or a child is in immediate danger, call 911 and make a report to law enforcement.

To report child abuse or neglect call 1-866-END HARM.
Deputies were called to the Streeters RV Park in Silver Lake for a reported shooting at 10:21 a.m. Wednesday.

Deputies were told that a man had been shot and that another man armed with a handgun had gone into a nearby motorhome.

Cowlitz County Deputies, Castle Rock Police, and Washington State Fish and Wildlife officers surrounded the home.

Meanwhile other deputies and firefighters from Castle Rock and Toutle tended to the 56-year-old victim. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

A SWAT team was brought in and after deputies got a search warrant the suspects motorhome was breached and a drone was flown inside. The drone captured the suspect lying still on the floor.

The SWAT team then entered and found the 86-year-old male suspect dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The incident is still under investigation. The names of the suspect and victim have not been released.
WASHINGTON  A Crown Point man received two and a half years in federal prison for assaulting multiple officers with an American flag while storming the U.S. Capitol.

Dale Huttle, of Crown Point, was facing charges of assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers with a dangerous weapon, interfering with law enforcement officers during a civil disorder, a related felony and misdemeanor offenses.

I think we ought to bum rush the Capitol building. Arrest them all. Weve got enough people to do that, Huttle reportedly said as he marched towards the Capitol on Jan. 6 alongside his nephew and co-defendant, Matthew Huttle.

Matthew Huttle was sentenced to six months in prison last November for his role in the incident.

As the pair made their way to the Capitol grounds, the DoJ said Dale Huttle yelled and berated at police officers. He then lunged forward and forcibly jabbed his flagpole directly into the stomach of a Metropolitan Police Department officer.

The officer suffered a back injury and Huttle then forcibly jabbed the flagpole at another officer  causing them to fall down the stairs. As other officers attempted to pull the fallen officer to their feet, Huttle continued to jab the officers with the flagpole.

Suburban man accused of firing gun amid Jan. 6 Capitol riot

Im not ashamed of being there. It was our duty as patriots. Huttle said in a news interview after the riot. (Im) the ultimate patriot because I put myself on the line to defend the country. And I have, I have no regrets. I will not say Im sorry.

Huttle was arrested on Nov. 17, 2022.

The case was investigated by the FBIs Indianapolis and Washington field offices. Since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,450 people have been charged.

Note: A prior release on his arrest listed Huttle as 61. He was listed as 73 in Tuesdays press release and WGN News reached out to clarify.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
SULLIVAN COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  The State of Tennessee has filed its response to Megan Boswells attorneys motion for a change of venue, and prosecutors dont think doing so is necessary.

In a response to the change of venue motion, Second Judicial District Attorney General Barry Staubus asked the court to deny the motion. If accepted, Megan Boswells murder trial would take place somewhere outside of Sullivan County.

PREVIOUS: Judge sets hearing to decide if Megan Boswells trial will be in Sullivan County

Boswell faces numerous charges, including two counts of felony murder, in the death of her toddler, Evelyn Boswell.

Boswells former attorney, Brad Sproles, filed the change of venue motion before he withdrew from the case (Gene Scott was appointed as Boswells attorney in October 2022). Sproles had argued that the media attention Boswells case had garnered would likely make it too difficult to find an impartial jury.

Staubus argued that Boswell is not entitled to a change of venue and cited two primary reasons, which can be read as they were written in the response below:

Prejudice should not be presumed merely because of the extent and nature of the pretrial publicity; and The parties are likely to be able to seat an impartial jury in Sullivan County after a careful and thorough selection process.

Tennessee law requires trials take place in the county where the alleged offenses took place, but a court may change the venue if a fair trial is unlikely because of undue excitement against the county where the offense was committed or for any other cause.

Complete Coverage of the Megan Boswell trial

Staubus argued that the existence of media coverage surrounding a case does not equate to the belief that potential jurors have already made up their minds and would be incapable of being impartial. He wrote that jurors do not necessarily go into a trial without any preconceived notions, but their ability to set those aside and reach a verdict based on evidence is what makes them impartial.

The State also claimed that since relevant parties have not spoken publicly on any evidence, the trial should proceed in Sullivan County.

While there has been geographically widespread media coverage about this case, the nature and extent of the coverage has been limited because the Sullivan County Sheriffs Office, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, the State, the Court, and the defense have refrained from releasing or commenting on the facts and evidence at issue in this case, the response reads.

Judge denies Boswells request to wear street clothes

According to Staubuss response, the court has already started a careful jury selection process and both the prosecution and defense will have the chance to make sure jurors are impartial.

That process included a test jury questionnaire that was sent out. The filed response claimed 168 responses were received, 155 of which indicated that the person who filled it out had heard about the case in some context. Of those, 102 said they had formed an opinion of some kind on the case.

According to the response, 28 of those 102 said they were unsure or did not share their opinion and the other 74 said their opinion was that Boswell was either guilty or probably guilty.

Staubus pointed to another metric, however, as a way of saying an impartial jury could be found: only 34 of the 168 responses said they would not be capable of setting aside their opinion to hear evidence.

Boswell is set to appear in Sullivan County court on Thursday afternoon. She has remained in jail since February 2020 after she was initially charged with false reports.

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.
President Bidens announcement shielding some immigrants lacking permanent legal status from deportation is firing up Hispanic organizers on the left, who see the move as the biggest immigration win since the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program launched in 2012.

The action is also drawing expected criticism from the right, with Republicans accusing Biden of playing electoral politics by protecting the spouses and children of U.S. citizens.

But the groups representing those families are ready to lean into that criticism: For months, theyve pleaded with Biden to take an openly political approach to relief for long-term immigrants without permanent legal status and have been sharply critical of his moves on border security.

Biden formally introduced his new plan at a White House celebration for DACAs 12th anniversary, surrounded and applauded by the legislators and advocates who most ardently panned his border security initiative two weeks ago.

Center stage behind Biden were Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Nanette Diaz Barragan (D-Calif.), Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-Texas)  a Biden-Harris campaign co-chair whos been critical of the border security plan  and Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas).

But the president was also flanked by his top two allies in pushing the border security rule, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Today is a good day, said Biden, after he was introduced by Javier Quiroz Castro, a nurse and DACA recipient who is married to a U.S. citizen.

The rest of the White House stage was packed with legislators, including Sens. Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-Nev.) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), and community leaders, such as UnidosUS President Janet Murguia, United We Dream Executive Director Greisa Martinez Rosas and Mi Familia Vota President Hector Sanchez Barba.

For the intersection of Latino politics and immigration advocacy, it was an all-star cast.

That turnout highlights the deep cultural significance of immigrant relief actions, particularly among Hispanics, a significance that is sometimes overlooked outside the U.S. Hispanic community.

My mom and dad still talk to this day about amnistia de los ochentas, and how that is what gave them a pathway to citizenship, and that is what brought them out of the shadows, said Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), referring to the 1986 amnesty spearheaded by former President Reagan.

Ramirez, who attended the ceremony with her husband, a DACA enrollee, said people who benefit from this relief package will remember Biden as her parents remember Reagan.

They dont think of him as a Republican. They dont think of him as a Democrat. They think of him as a president that did a thing for them that no one else had done. And I think that there are many folks that are right now thinking and wondering, you know, democrata, republicano  Democrat, Republican, none of them have done anything for us, she said.

Theyll be able to say, I dont care if hes a Democrat or Republican, Joe Biden is taking care of my family.

Democrats are also upbeat on how theyll talk about immigrant relief to voters nationwide.

I just think that its great policy, and I think its going to turn out to be pretty impossible for Republicans to argue about, you know  theyll just scream border. But, you know, I think the American people are going to understand that it is just as common sense as it gets, said Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas).

The new plan streamlines the process for spouses and children who dont have permanent legal status of U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency and grants three-year work permits and deferral from deportation for those applicants.

Bidens plan will also make it easier for college graduates with permanent legal status to apply for work visas with significantly reduced risk of getting stuck abroad in the process.

Immigrant advocates, with a fresh win in hand, are rearing to take that message to Latinos in battleground states including Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

We know that Pennsylvania is going to make or break the election, and were here as CASA in Action because we are getting ready for a major electoral voter mobilization program, and the Latino community needs to know that Bidens promise to keep families together  he is actively working on that and moving forward with this executive order thats going to affect so many people around the country, said Jossie Flor Sapunar, national communications director for CASA in Action, the political wing of an immigration advocacy group in Pennsylvania, Virginia and Maryland.

Though Bidens action came as no surprise, there was a night-and-day quality to advocates tone before and after the news.

This is actually the kind of policy we need from Biden, a policy thats uplifting, that it is positive, that is affirmative, that recognizes the important role immigrants have in our country, and that is consistent with the vision that he laid out when he first ran for office, said Vanessa Cardenas, executive director of Americas Voice, a progressive immigration group.

I absolutely believe its his DACA moment. It is very generous. It protects a large number of people, and I think to those voters that have been asking, What has this administration done positively for our community? This provides a specific answer at a moment where we really need to show the contrast between what this administration wants to do on immigration versus what [former President] Trump is wants to do.

For the Biden administration, full-throated praise from a key constituency is refreshing, but advocates have long made clear their holy grail is full legalization for all 11 million long-term immigrants who dont have permanent legal status.

In a letter to Biden on Monday, 127 organizations led by United We Dream and Community Change Action called for the actions announced Tuesday, plus expansion of Temporary Protected Status and relief for family caregivers lacking permanent legal status.

These policies are well within your executive power, which has been consistently utilized by both Republican and Democratic administrations alike to grant life-saving relief to individuals and families, they wrote.

Moreover, these types of policies enjoy overwhelming support from the American people, who are eager to see action toward fixing our failed immigration system. This is an opportunity to draw a clear contrast to former President Trump and his allies xenophobic demagoguery and hateful anti-immigrant fear-mongering.

And while the immigration advocacy world is on a high, concerns remain about how a decade of culture wars has redrawn perceptions on the issue.

What our nations history and current polling suggests is that there is certainly a symbiotic relationship amongst the words of our community leaders, policies enacted by our elected officials, media headlines, and public perception. One has the power to feed, reinforce, and perpetuate another  a power that can be used to advance or regress immigrant rights in the U.S., said Faisal Al-Juburi, chief external affairs officer at RAICES.

As such, we believe that policies reaffirming our nations commitment to protecting families, regardless of citizenship, can positively influence the hearts and minds of the American public. With humanitarian rather than punitive and criminalizing policies, our elected officials can shape public understanding about our community and activate urgent support in favor of fixing our nations broken immigration system.

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.
KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 18:25 | All, Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday ruled out dissolving the House of Representatives in the near future, rejecting opposition calls, amid speculation that his ruling Liberal Democratic Party would suffer a significant defeat in a snap election.

"I will concentrate on making achievements on issues that cannot be postponed," Kishida said during a parliamentary debate among party leaders, adding he is "not thinking about anything else" as a slush funds scandal rattles his LDP.

Kishida was responding to a question from Kenta Izumi, leader of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, who criticized him for failing to implement political money reforms after the scandal involving the LDP and urged him to seek a popular mandate.

As Kishida declined to declare a lower house dissolution, the ongoing ordinary Diet session is expected to wrap up on Sunday as scheduled. The focus will turn to whether he can secure reelection in the LDP's presidential race to be held around September.

"I have to fulfill my responsibility as the president of the LDP to restore public trust in politics," Kishida told Izumi, with the approval ratings for his Cabinet at their lowest levels since he took office in October 2021, due in part to the political funds scandal.

The debate, the first of its kind in three years, took place just hours after the parliament enacted a revised law proposed by the LDP to reform political funding rules despite criticism that it fell far short of resolving the issue of money in politics.

Nobuyuki Baba, leader of the second-largest opposition Japan Innovation Party, asked Kishida to step down, saying that the LDP "needs a leader who can proceed with reforms in a steady manner." Kishida, however, rejected the demand.

Baba's party had initially supported the proposed law but voted against it in the House of Councillors, claiming the LDP had failed to fully incorporate agreements reached by the two parties' leaders, including establishing stricter rules for so-called policy activity funds.

Izumi, meanwhile, told Kishida that the public is "not at all convinced" by the amended law, adding it is "truly unfortunate" that the LDP "forced it through." The main opposition CDPJ took three seats from the LDP in lower house by-elections in April.

"We definitely want a change of government," Izumi said, emphasizing that his party would be able to conduct politics with "more honesty" than the LDP. The ruling party has been in power for most of the period since 1955, primarily with the backing of big private businesses.

The CDPJ is planning to submit a no-confidence motion against Kishida's Cabinet on Thursday. The motion is likely to be voted down by the majority of the ruling coalition, which includes the LDP and its junior partner, the Komeito party.

Baba, who began his political career as an LDP member, said at a press conference later in the day that if the CDPJ brings forward the no-confidence motion against the Cabinet to the lower house, it would be "difficult to oppose it."

The current four-year terms of lower house members expire in October 2025 unless Kishida dissolves the chamber for a snap election. Under Japan's Constitution, the prime minister can decide to dissolve the lower house.

Related coverage:

Japan's parliament enacts law to reform political funds rules amid criticism
DANVILLE, Va. (WFXR)  Danville Police reports they have arrested a man in connection to a homicide that occurred on Piney Forest Road on the evening of June 18.

DPD says around 10:49 p.m. on Tuesday, officers responded to the Woodside Village apartment complex on the 1300 block of Piney Forest Road and found 24-year-old Tasean Delvecchio Farmer with multiple gunshot wounds.

Tasean was taken to SOVAH Health where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.

Police say that 32-year-old Richard Lee Wilson of Danville was identified as a suspect and allegedly fled the scene after the shooting. Wilson was later found and taken into custody in North Carolina.

VSP charges Roanoke woman with 2nd Degree Homicide for death of 4-month-old

Wilson is charged with second-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, use of a firearm during the commission of a violent felony, reckless handling of a firearm, and discharging a firearm in an occupied dwelling.

Danville Police say the investigation is still ongoing; however, they believe this appears to be an isolated incident and there is no further danger to the public. If you have any information regarding the incident, please contact the Danville Police Department at 434-799-6510 option 4, investigations at 434-799-6508 option 1, and option 1 again, calling 911. You can also contact Crime Stoppers at 434-793-0000, approach any officer you see, through social media, via email at crimetips@danvilleva.gov, or use our crime tips app CARE at www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=818#.

WFXR News will update you with further information as it becomes available.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.
On Tuesday, a 29-year-old Davenport woman pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor after she and a 44-year-old man were charged earlier with incidents.

Garrison Gardner, Rebecca Anderson (Scott County Jail)

Rebecca Anderson, whose address earlier was listed as Princeton, pleaded guilty to charges including incest, lascivious acts with a child, child endangerment and false imprisonment during a hearing in Scott County Court.

In December 2023, Garrison Gardner, of Princeton, pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree sexual abuse and lascivious acts with a child, according to court records, which say he is tentatively set for a jury trial July 22 in Scott County Court.

In arrest affidavits, law enforcement alleges Gardner sexually abused a child in incidents that started in Colorado and continued in Princeton. The incidents occurred three to four times a week in Princeton between October 2022 through July 2023, affidavits show.

Law enforcement also alleges that Gardner knowingly punished the minor with excessive punishments that included being locked in a bedroom for several hours/days, being struck with a black leather belt, standing for long periods in a corner, and depriving the child of food, arrest affidavits show.

In arrest affidavits, law enforcement alleges Anderson sexually abused a child in Princeton between October 2022 through July 2023, more than once and possibly up to four times.

Anderson, who is being held on a total $202,000 cash-only bond in Scott County Jail, is set for sentencing Oct. 11 in Scott County Court. She waived her right to a jury trial.

Gardner is being held on a total $200,000 cash-only bond in Scott County Jail.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The deadline is fast approaching for students who must be enrolled in the 8th, 9th, 10th or 11th grade to be eligible to apply for Oklahomas Promise.

Homeschool students must be age 13, 14, 15 or 16 to complete the application for a transformational state scholarship, by July 1.

Oklahomas Promise is a nationally recognized college access program that allows high school students the opportunity to earn a tuition scholarship that can be used at an Oklahoma college, university, or public career technology center.

The Oklahomas Promise scholarship covers tuition at any public college or university in the state for up to five years until the completion of a bachelors degree or a maximum of 129 semester credit hours. It will also pay a portion of the tuition at an accredited Oklahoma private college or at public career technology centers for certain programs that are eligible for federal financial aid.

Students requirement includes meeting certain income, academic, and conduct requirements while in college or attending a public career technology center to receive and retain the scholarship. Oklahomas Promise emphasizes both academic preparation and financial support for college.

For more information about Oklahomas Promise or to apply online, visit www.okpromise.org.

Headlines

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Abigail Castillo, center in pink top, of Oaxaca, Mexico, walks with her son as she boards a Border Patrol van to apply for asylum, Wednesday, June 5, 2024, near Dulzura, Calif. President Joe Biden on Tuesday unveiled plans to enact immediate significant restrictions on migrants seeking asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border as the White House tries to neutralize immigration as a political liability ahead of the November elections. | Gregory Bull

Under a new Biden administrative plan, announced Tuesday, people without legal status who are married to U.S. citizens will be able to apply for citizenship without first leaving the country.

There are some restrictions. For example, only those who have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years as of Monday and who are legally married will be able to apply.

After receiving approval by the Department of Homeland Security, they would then be able to remain in the U.S. during a three-year period as they apply for permanent residency within the state. During this time, they would be eligible for work authorization.

Around 500,000 spouses of U.S. citizens could be impacted by this plan.

President Joe Biden announced the significant immigration action Tuesday as immigration at the southern border continues to be a challenge.

The spouses of citizens would still have to qualify under the legal requirements. PBS reported the applicants will be screened for past criminal and immigration history. The program may be implemented as soon as the end of summer.

The Biden plan would also allow recipients of DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, who have degrees from accredited U.S. universities and offers of employment in the country to receive expedited work visas.

Its similar to a current  and more narrow  parole in place which has allowed family members without legal status of U.S. military personnel and veterans to remain in the country while receiving protections from deportation and work authorization.

As it stands now, federal law states people who enter the country illegally have to leave before receiving a green card. In order to receive a green card, the person would then have to come back into the country. The difference with the Biden administration policy would be that instead of leaving the country, the person without legal status could remain in the country.

It can sometimes take years for a person in this situation to re-enter the country. They can apply at consulates to expedite the process, but it still may take a while. Under this plan, spouses of U.S. citizens who have already been paroled into the U.S. are not eligible.

Reactions from elected officials about the administrations plan have generally fallen along party lines.

The program, coming from the Biden administration and not a law passed by Congress, has been scrutinized by Republicans for being the result of an administrative not a legislative action. Democrats have praised the plan, calling it a relief for families.

Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, posted on social media about the policy when it was initially reported, but before it was officially announced. Translation: President Biden is planning to usurp the Legislative Branch and change the law out of thin air to make millions of illegal immigrants permanent residents.

Sen. Catherine Masto, D-Nevada, wrote an opinion article for Univision urging the president to take executive action to protect the spouses of U.S. citizens.

These are critical steps that would help our economy, support businesses across the U.S., and allow hundreds of thousands of people who call this country home to breathe easier, said Masto.

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said in a social media post that he expects the policy will be struck down in court.

The President may think our homeland security is some kind of game that he can try to use for political points, but Americans know this amnesty plan will only incentivize more illegal immigration and endanger Americans, said Johnson.

Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., said in a statement that the Bidens administration action was in Americas best interest.

The plan will improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of American who will no longer have to live with fear and uncertainty of being torn apart or risk being separated for extended periods of time, said Padilla.

A bigger battle

November looms ahead and many American voters on both sides of the aisle rank immigration as a top issue.

In a survey conducted by Pew Research Center, 59% of registered voters said people should be allowed to either stay in the country legally and apply for citizenship or receive permanent residence. Forty-one percent said there should be a national effort to deport people.

Support for citizenship or permanent residency versus support for deportation generally falls along party lines. Sixty-six percent of Republican voters supported a national deportation effort while 83% of Democratic voters said people should be able to apply for permanent residency or citizenship.

Not only does this issue divide voters, but also elected officials.

Congress has so far failed to pass resolutions or legislation put forward by officials from both parties  and sometimes bipartisan deals  on the issue of the border.

On the same day Title 42 expired, House Republicans advanced a bill that would build more of the wall between the U.S. and Mexico and would limit the Department of Homeland Securitys ability to provide parole to noncitizens.

At the time the bill was considered in 2023, it passed the House, with all Democrats and two Republicans, Reps. Thomas Massie and John Duarte, voting against the bill. But it failed to receive consideration, let alone support, in the Senate.

Some in the Senate negotiated a bipartisan bill to attempt to secure the border, but it was dead on arrival in the House. Utahs congressional delegation and Sen. Lee voiced opposition to the bill. Rep. Burgess Owens said Biden should enforce the laws already on the books.

Immigration policy has also made its way to the court system.

Last year, a federal court ruled that DACA, created by executive action via former President Barack Obama, was unlawful. The Biden administration had made changes to the rule, but the judge said those changes didnt amount to enough to reverse the decision.

The judge did not order that the program should end. The program remained for recipients already enrolled, but no new applicants could be approved.

The opinion from the judge focused on which branch has the power to create this kind of program  the judge said that power does not lie with the executive branch.

U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen wrote, While sympathetic to the predicament of DACA recipients and their families, this Court has expressed its concerns about the legality of the program for some time. The solution for these deficiencies lies with the legislature, not the executive or judicial branches.

The judges ruling was appealed.

Its possible the recent Biden administration policy could have a similar fate as the DACA program because it was done via administrative action, not through Congress. Depending on who wins the presidency in 2024, the program could also be short-lived as GOP front-runner Donald Trump has already voiced opposition to the plan and vowed to reverse it if elected.
Debby, Bud or Fabio? Will you share a name with a hurricane? Heres the complete list

No one wants to share their name with a meteorological monster. But it happens.

The first named stormed of the young hurricane season is about to hit Texas. Weather watchers have been tracking Tropical Storm Alberto the past few days while it was a mere disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico.

But why do storms get names?

Every six years or so, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration releases a list of names that they will use to name hurricanes. This helps clarify any confusion when multiple storms form at the same time. And monikers for the deadliest events, such as Katrina and Sandy, are retired. Otherwise, the list is recycled.

 More trending stories from our newsroom:

Cowboys legend Michael Irvin says wife Sandy, 58, suffers from early onset Alzheimers

 Fred's Texas Cafe opens a new restaurant outside of Fort Worth

 Pastor of Southlakes Gateway Church accused of molesting 12-year-old girl in 1980s

NOAA predicts an 85% chance of an above normal hurricane season for the Atlantic Ocean this year.

NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, eight to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), according to its website.

They also predict four to seven hurricanes that will be category 3 or worse.

The last hurricane that hit Texas was Nicholas in 2021. Its storm surge was only a category 1, meaning minimal damage happened. The most recent hurricane to hit the United States was Lee in September 2023  another category 1 .

A hurricane is when a storms wind speeds reach up to 74 mph or higher, according to the National Weather Service. Categories are based on the maximum wind strength and the higher the category, the worse the damage. Hurricane season typically occurs from June 1 to Nov. 30.

It is likely that 2024 will bring another hurricane to the U.S., possibly even Texas. If that is the case, check to see if you will share your name with a storm.

Atlantic names

Alberto

Beryl

Chris

Debby

Ernesto

Francine

Gordon

Helene

Isaac

Joyce

Kirk

Leslie

Milton

Nadine

Oscar

Patty

Rafael

Sara

Tony

Valerie

William

Eastern North Pacific names

Aletta

Bud

Carlotta

Daniel

Emilia

Fabio

Gilma

Hector

Ileana

John

Kristy

Lane

Miriam

Norman

Olivia

Paul

Rosa

Sergio

Tara

Vicente

Willa

Xavier

Yolanda

Zeke
Students from Lindbergh Elementary joined parents and teachers from the school Tuesday in calling on the Columbus City school board to pause the school closure process and keep the elementary school open.

The Columbus City school board once again heard from concerned parents and community members Tuesday as a potential board vote on closing as many as 20 buildings could come next week.

The board did not take any action Tuesday on the proposals presented by the Superintendent's Community Facilities Task Force last month, which included the possibility of closing up to 20 CCS schools under nine different recommended scenarios.

Superintendent Angela Chapman said the the task force will be coming to the board next Tuesday and providing their final recommendations.

"They have certainly looked at the feedback and reviewed the feedback from the community, and will be providing recommendations," Chapman said.

More: Columbus City Schools could close up to 20 schools. Here's what to know about each of them

Although there are nine proposals, some are alternates of each other and the board may or may not approve any or all of them. Over a number of meetings earlier this year, the task force considered factors such as building utilization, or how full a building is, transportation data and whether a building has been aging without substantial renovation, The Dispatch previously reported.

Community, children urge pause to closure process, spare schools

Rayan Khatouf, a 10-year-old Cranbrook Elementary student, said he stayed up all night wondering where he would go if his school closed.

"If you guys split me up with my best friend, my heart will also split," Khatouf said. "You guys are trying to destroy the biggest memories of my life, you are trying to split up my family of more than 200 students."

More than a dozen people attended the meeting in support of East High School, which is proposed for either closure or to use the building as a new home for Columbus Alternative High School. Ruciana Fleming, an East High School alumnus and district teacher, urged the board not to shutter the school and said East High is "not just a building, it's a legacy."

"The students in our community who attend East High School have remained loyal to the school, loyal to the community and loyal to the Columbus school district," Fleming said. "They didn't go to a charter school  they stayed. Don't repay them by kicking them out of the school in their community."

More: As Columbus Schools looks at closing schools, it already maintains 12 closed properties

Stuart McIntyre, a member of the Columbus Education Justice Coalition, said that among all the parents and community members he's spoken with, "nearly everyone agrees that big decisions do have to be made, including consolidation and restructuring."

"But you haven't provided a single good reason to rush (the decision)," McIntyre said. "If you make these decisions alone, you impose them on the community  all of us will pay the price for your mistakes."

District closure decision could come next week

While the board did not take action on closures Monday, a decision could come at a meeting next Tuesday when the task force makes final recommendations to the board. The board has a final meeting on June 25 to close the books for the school year and does not return to session until Aug. 6.

The facilities task force also has a final meeting scheduled for June 25, according to its CCS webpage.

Cbehrens@dispatch.com

@Colebehr_report

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus school closures: Residents urge pause, possible vote next week
FILE - Pope Francis during his weekly general audience in St. Peter's Square at The Vatican, on Oct. 18, 2023. One of the defendants in the Vaticans big financial trial has formally complained to the United Nations that Pope Francis violated his human rights by authorizing wide-ranging surveillance during the investigation. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino, File)

NEW YORK (AP)  One of the defendants in the Vaticans big financial trial has filed a formal complaint with the United Nations, alleging that Pope Francis violated his human rights by authorizing wide-ranging surveillance during the investigation.

A lawyer for Raffaele Mincione, a London-based financier, submitted a complaint last week to the U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights via a special procedure that allows individuals or groups to provide the U.N. with information about alleged rights violations in countries or institutions.

The Vatican on Thursday rejected the claim, saying the investigation followed all relevant laws and international agreements and that no surveillance was ordered for Mincione.

The filing marks the latest and highest-profile complaint about the Vatican trial, highlighting the peculiarity of the Vaticans criminal justice system and its seeming incompatibility with European and democratic norms. The Vatican is an absolute monarchy where the pope wields supreme legislative, executive and judicial power.

The trial, which opened in 2021 and ended in December, focused on the Holy Sees money-losing 350 million euro investment in a London property but also included other tangents. Vatican prosecutors alleged brokers and Vatican officials fleeced the Holy See of tens of millions of euros in fees and commissions, and then extorted the Holy See for 15 million euros ($16.5 million) to cede control of the property.

The trial ended in December with convictions for nine of the 10 defendants, including Mincione and a once-powerful cardinal, Angelo Becciu. The courts motivations for the sentence still haven't been published, but both Vatican prosecutors and the nine convicted defendants have announced appeals.

Minciones complaint to the U.N. focused on the role of the pope during the investigation, an area that was flagged as problematic by defense lawyers during the trial and external experts in its aftermath.

The complaint cited four secret executive decrees Francis signed in 2019 and 2020 that gave Vatican prosecutors wide-ranging powers to investigate, including via unchecked wiretapping and to deviate from existing laws. The decrees only came to light right before trial, were never officially published, provided no rationale or timeframe for the surveillance, or oversight of the wiretapping by an independent judge.

The chief prosecutor argued Francis decrees provided unspecified guarantees for the suspects, and the judges rejected the defense motions at the time that claimed they violated the fundamental right to a fair trial. In a somewhat convoluted decision, the judges ruled that no violation of the principle of legality had occurred since Francis had made the laws.

In a statement responding to media inquiries about the U.N. filing, the Vatican prosecutors' office said Mincione and others had been convicted of serious crimes in a trial where due process was fully observed and where he abundantly exercised his right to be heard.

The prosecutor said the investigation respected all laws and international agreements and didn't actually involve ordering the use of intercepts of Mincione's phone or electronic communications.

Mincione's complaint also alleged the tribunal is not independent or impartial, a claim the Vatican has rejected previously. Francis can hire and fire judges and prosecutors, and recently decided such things such as their compensation, pension and term limits.

It is not clear what, if anything, the U.N. will do with the complaint. The Geneva-based office fields special rapporteurs, or experts, to monitor specific areas of human rights, including the judiciary and independence of judges and lawyers.

Previous complaints to the U.N. human rights office about the Vatican or Catholic Church, in the areas of child sexual abuse and LGBTQ+ discrimination, resulted in letters from the U.N. special rapporteur to the Vatican's U.N. ambassador in Geneva listing problems and requesting responses and changes.

Mincione has also tried to engage the Council of Europe on the matter, given the Holy See is subject to periodic review as part of the COE's Moneyval process to guard against money laundering. In January, a British representative asked if the COE would look into the Vaticans human rights situation given the trial outcome.

The plenary assembly chairman dodged the question.

In ongoing litigation, Mincione has also sued the Vatican secretariat of state in a British court over the reputational harm he says he suffered as a result of the Vatican trial.
Defense Department says Gaza aid pier to be back in place this week

The temporary Gaza aid pier that had been removed to avoid further seas damage is expected to return to operation later this week, the Defense Department said Tuesday. After being damaged in May the pier was towed to Ashdod, Israel. File Photo by U.S. Central Command/UPI

June 19 (UPI) -- The Defense Department said Tuesday that the Gaza pier built by the United States and damaged by high seas is expected to be back in place this week.

The pier was damaged and then towed to Ashdod, Israel to avoid further damage. The pier has been used to help deliver Gaza humanitarian aid since May 17.

"We expect it will go operational again this week," Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said Tuesday during a briefing. "As far as airdrops go, we do have the capability and do intend to continue conducting airdrops."

Ryder said the pier, which is meant to be temporary, has delivered substantial aid to Gaza despite the damage.

He said the Defense Department is using "all avenues" including the pier to get assistance into Gaza.

"Since the pier was put in place about a month ago, we've been able to shuttle over 3,500 metric tons, or 7.7 million pounds, of aid onto the shore in Gaza, via this temporary pier," Ryder said.

In addition to the pier, U.S. Central Command has delivered humanitarian airdrops into Gaza in partnership with the Royal Jordanian Air Force, since March.

About 40 airdrop missions have delivered tons of food water and prepared meals. The most recent airdrop was 11 tons on June 9.

Earlier this month CENTCOM said initial damage from heavy storms at sea in May had been repaired and the pier was restored. But more repairs were needed after that.

The original cost estimate of the repairs was $320 million, but that was later revised down to an overall cost of $230 million.
KYODO NEWS - Jun 19, 2024 - 21:07 | All, Japan

A psychiatric evaluation of the man accused of fatally shooting former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has determined him mentally fit to be held criminally responsible for his actions, sources close to the matter said Wednesday.

The defense for Tetsuya Yamagami did not contest the results of the evaluation, which had been conducted at the request of prosecutors, and effectively deferred a request for another evaluation, the sources said.

The trial of Yamagami, 43, who was arrested for the shooting in July 2022 in the western city of Nara, is now expected to focus on how he grew up, as well as the lethality of the homemade gun he used in the incident. A date for the first hearing has yet to be determined.

Abe was shot at close range by Yamagami during a campaign speech outside a train station two days ahead of a national election.

Yamagami has told investigators he targeted Abe due to his perceived links to the Unification Church, a religious group known for its mass weddings and aggressive donation solicitations, and that Yamagami's family fell into financial ruin due to his mother's large financial donations.

The group, founded in South Korea in 1954 by a staunch anti-communist, was later established in Japan with the support of Abe's grandfather, former Prime Minister Nobusuke Kishi.

Related coverage:

Abe murder revealing religion's role in Japan's child abuse problem

Abe's widow to attend Taiwan presidential inauguration in May
Delaware City Refinery 'deviated' from its permit 7 times this year with no violations

In late May, Delaware City Refinery spilled around 1,000 gallons of crude oil into a wetland surrounding the Delaware River, making up just one of the facilitys seven permit violations reported this year.

Although officials from the refinery have affirmed that this particular incident has resulted in minimal impact, the Delaware City Refinery has continued to pollute the surrounding air and water with occasionally toxic substances not permitted by state and federal agencies, according to data from Delaware's Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

With the potential for the refinery to be reused for hydrogen energy production, environmental activists remain concerned about the allowances it receives from government agencies and are wary to give it any more.

Delaware City Refinery's toxic history and potential hydrogen future

Black smoke is emitted from a stack on the ground of the Delaware City Refinery in 2018.

The Delaware City Refinery, owned by PBF Energy, is one of the largest and most complex oil refineries on the East Coast. Its located on a 5,000-acre plot of land on the Delaware River.

More than 86,000 people live within a 5-mile radius of the refinery, over half of whom are people of color, and 20% of whom are lower-income, according to EPA data.

The refinery historically has been Delawares biggest polluter, and one of the biggest polluters in the region. According to EPA data, the refinery released nearly 5.7 million pounds of pollutants in 2021.

In 2021, a report from the Environmental Integrity Project found that Delaware City Refinery was the second-highest emitter of nitrogen discharges in the country, releasing around 1.2 million pounds into the Delaware River in a single year. Nitrogen pollutants can lower oxygen levels in the water and potentially carry disease, according to the Public Interest Network.

Last year, the Clean Air Council, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit, was granted $500,000 to monitor and track the refinerys emissions of certain air pollutants.

In April, the EPA set stricter regulations for the emission of certain pollutants on a number of facilities around the country, including the Delaware City Refinery.

Energy stakeholders in Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey also have joined forces to plan a hydrogen hub to power sectors of the Mid-Atlantic economy that are otherwise hard to electrify. The hub, known as the Mid-Atlantic Hydrogen Hub, or MACH2, has framework in place to essentially revamp current refineries and power plants into production centers for hydrogen energy.

This move has prompted backlash from environmental advocates, who express concerns about the feasibility and sustainability of hydrogen power as a whole and the federal funds that would essentially make its way to historically pollutive plants.

How much is the refinery allowed to pollute?

Refineries like the Delaware City Refinery are typically allowed to emit a certain amount of pollutants into the air and water with a number of permits that track different types of pollution, which are regulated by local and national environmental agencies.

Citing the refinerys history of polluting the air and water, as well as the environmental justice impact upon the residents near the refinery, a petition was filed in 2022 on behalf of seven environmental activist groups in opposition to the renewal of the refinerys permit.

The permit contains unlawful loopholes  and fails to ensure compliance with certain standards for hazardous air pollutants, the petition said. Acute environmental justice concerns in the communities near the Delaware City Refinery provide additional reasons why EPA must pay special attention and object here.

Refinery causes oil spill into Delaware River's wetlands

Just before 5 a.m. on May 29, an oil spill was reported off the Delaware City Refinerys pier off the Delaware River.

According to incident reports from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the spill resulted in around 1,000 gallons of crude oil into an adjacent wetland that flows into the Delaware River due to a failed pipe gasket.

First State Update originally reported the incident, citing the presence of DNREC officials, cleanup crews and booms around the site.

Just before 5 a.m. on May 29, 2024, an oil spill was reported off the Delaware City Refinerys pier off the Delaware River.

The Delaware City Refinery is owned by Delaware City Refining Corp., a subsidiary of PBF Energy.

Randi Licciardello, lead community and government relations adviser with PBF Energy, sent a statement that was also posted by Delaware City Mayor Paul Johnsons Facebook page the morning after the incident.

"The refinerys Oil Response Team, which includes environmental remediation specialists, promptly responded by stopping the release and setting up equipment to contain and absorb the sheen around the refinerys piers and in other areas," the statement said. While assessing the area, a small amount of sheen was identified on the south side of the Branch Canal at the Delaware City Marina. There is minimal impact on the shoreline of the Canal and the refinery.

The statement also said that the boat ramp on the refinery side of the canal was closed to vessels overnight. Officials from the Delaware Bay and River Cooperative were assisting with cleanup, and no injuries were reported among employees, contractors and third-party responders.

Doug Helton, regional operations supervisor of NOAAs Emergency Response Division, explained that his Seattle-based team was made aware of the incident and advised cleanup crews with scientific support on the best practices for cleaning the spill based on the shoreline types and wildlife present around the area. Given that the spill was located off a wetland, tracking how and where the oil is expected to spread was critical for thorough cleanup.

Its a sensitive time of year, Helton said. Its a big nesting habitat, so the idea would be to protect those areas to the extent you can and survey to see if theres any injured wildlife out there.

According to Helton, after initial cleanup is completed an investigation into the incident and decision would have to be made by either state or federal environmental agencies into whether restoration work needs to be done.

According to Licciardello, all relevant government agencies and officials were notified of the incident and a thorough investigation is underway.

7 unpermitted releases in 2024 so far

Black smoke is omitted from a stack on the ground of the Delaware City Refinery in 2018.

According to the Delaware Environmental Release System, which tracks deviations from Clean Air Act Title V and Clean Water Act permits for groups around the state, the Delaware City Refinery has reported seven unpermitted releases of substances, most of which were listed as extremely hazardous.

According to Michael Globbetti, media relations manager for DNREC, a deviation is defined as any failure to meet a term or condition of a facilitys operating permit from DNREC.

The most recent reported deviation occurred on Monday, June 10 at around 8:30 a.m., when a compressor failure caused a flare of over 1,300 pounds of sulfur dioxide, a toxic gas considered extremely harmful to humans and the environment, into the air.

Other unpermitted sulfur dioxide flares were reported June 2, May 15, May 8, April 6, totaling over 1,085 pounds.

The largest unpermitted hazardous release reported to DNREC this year was Feb. 29, when around 5,000 pounds of carbon monoxide were emitted into the air due to an unexplained upset event.

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE LEGISLATION: Development in Delaware will be reviewed for environmental justice impact under this bill

Has the refinery violated its permit?

While all of these releases are not covered under Delaware City Refinerys permit, they dont necessarily constitute a violation.

A violation is doled out to the refinery at the discretion of DNREC. If DNREC decides a certain release should be considered a violation, DNREC files a Notice of Violation to the facility and follows through with an appropriate enforcement response.

In 2023 the refinery had three violations of their air quality permit, one of which for an unpermitted release of 617 pounds of sulfur dioxide, less than the pounds of sulfur dioxide that have been released this year.

At the time of the violations, Kalim Shah, who teaches energy and environmental policy at the University of Delaware, explained that while there is a general set of regulations for pollution set forth by the government, there are no laws specifically applying to refineries. Instead, they are beholden to the same reporting standards as other companies permitted to have major emissions in both Delaware and across the country.

Dustyn Thompson, director of the Sierra Clubs Delaware Chapter, one of the petitioners against the refinerys permit, stated that the recent violations are a reminder of the refinerys dangerous implications on the surrounding communities and potential hydrogen-based overhaul.

The recent oil spill is yet another stark reminder of why we have been advocating for the EPA and DNREC to curb the pollution and emissions that are adversely affecting our wildlife and neighbors in Delaware City, Thompson said. The question that looms is, what will happen when the refinerys expansion, linked to MACH2, plows ahead? Will these neighbors be left to suffer once again?

Molly McVety covers community and environmental issues around Delaware. Contact her at mmcvety@delawareonline.com. Follow her on Twitter @mollymcvety.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware City Refinery breached permits 7 times this year. What to know
The Delaware Senate on Tuesday approved a bill that will protect fertility treatments, solidifying a package of bills the legislative body passed to protect reproductive freedoms in the First State.

House Bill 374, passed by the state House of Representatives in late May, codifies legal protections for fertility treatment providers, protecting Delawareans access to in-vitro fertilization and other assisted reproductive technologies.

State Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton, left, and state Sen. Marie Pinkney speak as more than 300 people protest for abortion rights at Wilmington's Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park on Saturday afternoon, May 14, 2022.

The state Senate approved the legislation in a 20-1 vote, with Republican Sen. Bryant Richardson casting the sole no vote.

The legislation was prompted after more than a dozen states passed or attempted to pass fetal personhood bills in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade in 2022, which protected a persons right to abortion.

The personhood bills give fetuses, and in some cases embryos, the legal rights of a person, making fertility treatments like IVF inaccessible or even illegal, with threats of legal action against medical professionals should they provide such treatment.

REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS: How Delaware aims to strengthen women's reproductive rights with these bills

The passage of the bill by the Senate on Tuesday ensures fertility treatments are protected in Delaware. The bill now goes to Gov. John Carneys desk for his signature.

Pregnancy centers, abortion pill access on campuses

Two other bills, sponsored by Sen. Kyle Evans Gay, approved by the Senate on June 13 address transparency regarding services and medical professionals at crisis pregnancy centers and would require public universities to provide access to abortion pills.

Both Senate Bill 300 and Senate Bill 301 were discussed in the House Health & Human Development Committee on Tuesday.

Other mother, infant-centered legislation

The Senate also approved three bills that expand affordable and potentially lifesaving healthcare services for women and infants.

Sarah Culver (left), a local doula, has launched a new website to help women connect with home birth midwives and doulas.

House Bill 345 will require Medicaid to cover additional postpartum doula visits if recommended by a licensed medical practitioner or clinician.

It was passed by the House in March, expanding on legislation passed last year requiring Medicaid to cover three prenatal and three postpartum doula visits, along with doula coverage during labor and birth, starting on Jan. 1.

DOULA COVERAGE: Delaware to cover doula services under Medicaid, bereavement leave for pregnancy loss

House Bill 274, which passed the House in May, helps reduce the risk of infants developing peanut and egg allergies by requiring all health insurance plans, including Medicaid, to cover the cost of allergen supplements starting on Jan. 1, 2025.

State senators also approved House Bill 313 ensuring female inmates receive annual or biennial mammograms based on each persons risk factors as determined in consultation with a health care practitioner. The measure was approved by the House in March.

Legislators said the bill will protect against the denial of breast cancer screenings from people who are incarcerated in Delaware prisons. It will also ensure new guidance from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force is quickly adopted by the state Department of Correction and its contracted health care provider.

These bills now go to Carney for his signature.

Got a tip? Contact Amanda Fries at afries@delawareonline.com. Follow her on X at @mandy_fries.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware reproductive rights, women and infants focus of these bills
Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien | States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Senate Democrats held a press conference Tuesday to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in Project 2025, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trumps political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, theyve given it out, to rip away a womans right to choose in every single state in America, she said.

Comstock Act

Murray addressed concerns about the Comstock Act, a key element of Republicans legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to prohibit mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously rejected an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of abortions in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice determined it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesdays press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

We dont need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books, Mitchell said, quoted in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to introduce legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesdays event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

Just let me make it very clear, said Murray. Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.

IVF legislation

Schumer slammed Republicans for blocking Duckworths IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only received 48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism, said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law, Schumer said.

Trump appointments

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trumps appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in Novembers elections.

Every judge we confirm makes a difference, she said. We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.

During Trumps first term, he appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain significant in writing opinions far beyond Trumps time in office.

Planned Parenthood

Senators at Tuesdays event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception, Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

This isnt about protecting life, said Hirono. This is about power and control and the Republicans obsession with controlling womens bodies.

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about womens rights but dont vote to protect them.

When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they wont lift a finger to protect women in this country, she said.

Murray vowed to protect womens rights no matter the outcome of Novembers election.

We are fighting back, said Murray. Were doing everything we can to protect womens rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.

The post Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights appeared first on West Virginia Watch.
Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights

Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Senate Democrats held a press conference Tuesday to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in Project 2025, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trumps political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, theyve given it out, to rip away a womans right to choose in every single state in America, she said.

Comstock Act

Murray addressed concerns about the Comstock Act, a key element of Republicans legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to prohibit mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously rejected an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of abortions in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice determined it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesdays press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

We dont need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books, Mitchell said, quoted in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to introduce legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesdays event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

Just let me make it very clear, said Murray. Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.

IVF legislation

Schumer slammed Republicans for blocking Duckworths IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only received 48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism, said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law, Schumer said.

Trump appointments

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trumps appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in Novembers elections.

Every judge we confirm makes a difference, she said. We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.

During Trumps first term, he appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain significant in writing opinions far beyond Trumps time in office.

Planned Parenthood

Senators at Tuesdays event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception, Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

This isnt about protecting life, said Hirono. This is about power and control and the Republicans obsession with controlling womens bodies.

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about womens rights but dont vote to protect them.

When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they wont lift a finger to protect women in this country, she said.

Murray vowed to protect womens rights no matter the outcome of Novembers election.

We are fighting back, said Murray. Were doing everything we can to protect womens rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.

The post Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Photo by Lia Chien/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Senate Democrats held a press conference Tuesday to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in Project 2025, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trumps political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, theyve given it out, to rip away a womans right to choose in every single state in America, she said.

Comstock Act

Murray addressed concerns about the Comstock Act, a key element of Republicans legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to prohibit mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously rejected an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of abortions in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice determined it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesdays press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

We dont need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books, Mitchell said, quoted in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to introduce legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesdays event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

Just let me make it very clear, said Murray. Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.

IVF legislation

Schumer slammed Republicans for blocking Duckworths IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only received 48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism, said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law, Schumer said.

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Trump appointments

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trumps appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in Novembers elections.

Every judge we confirm makes a difference, she said. We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.

During Trumps first term, he appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain significant in writing opinions far beyond Trumps time in office.

Planned Parenthood

Senators at Tuesdays event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception, Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

This isnt about protecting life, said Hirono. This is about power and control and the Republicans obsession with controlling womens bodies.

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about womens rights but dont vote to protect them.

When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they wont lift a finger to protect women in this country, she said.

Murray vowed to protect womens rights no matter the outcome of Novembers election.

We are fighting back, said Murray. Were doing everything we can to protect womens rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.

The post Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights appeared first on Washington State Standard.
Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Photo by Lia Chien/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Senate Democrats held a press conference Tuesday to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in Project 2025, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trumps political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, theyve given it out, to rip away a womans right to choose in every single state in America, she said.

Comstock Act

Murray addressed concerns about the Comstock Act, a key element of Republicans legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to prohibit mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously rejected an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of abortions in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice determined it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesdays press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

We dont need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books, Mitchell said, quoted in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to introduce legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesdays event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

Just let me make it very clear, said Murray. Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.

IVF legislation

Schumer slammed Republicans for blocking Duckworths IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only received 48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism, said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law, Schumer said.

Trump appointments

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trumps appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in Novembers elections.

Every judge we confirm makes a difference, she said. We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.

During Trumps first term, he appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain significant in writing opinions far beyond Trumps time in office.

Planned Parenthood

Senators at Tuesdays event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception, Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

This isnt about protecting life, said Hirono. This is about power and control and the Republicans obsession with controlling womens bodies.

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about womens rights but dont vote to protect them.

When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they wont lift a finger to protect women in this country, she said.

Murray vowed to protect womens rights no matter the outcome of Novembers election.

We are fighting back, said Murray. Were doing everything we can to protect womens rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.

The post Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights appeared first on North Dakota Monitor.
Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien/States Newsroom)

Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Lia Chien/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Senate Democrats held a press conference Tuesday to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in Project 2025, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trumps political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, theyve given it out, to rip away a womans right to choose in every single state in America, she said.

Comstock Act

Murray addressed concerns about the Comstock Act, a key element of Republicans legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to prohibit mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously rejected an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of abortions in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice determined it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesdays press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

We dont need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books, Mitchell said, quoted in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to introduce legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesdays event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

Just let me make it very clear, said Murray. Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.

IVF legislation

Schumer slammed Republicans for blocking Duckworths IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only received 48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism, said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law, Schumer said.

Trump appointments

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trumps appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in Novembers elections.

Every judge we confirm makes a difference, she said. We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.

During Trumps first term, he appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain significant in writing opinions far beyond Trumps time in office.

Planned Parenthood

Senators at Tuesdays event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception, Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

This isnt about protecting life, said Hirono. This is about power and control and the Republicans obsession with controlling womens bodies.

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about womens rights but dont vote to protect them.

When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they wont lift a finger to protect women in this country, she said.

Murray vowed to protect womens rights no matter the outcome of Novembers election.

We are fighting back, said Murray. Were doing everything we can to protect womens rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.

The post Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights appeared first on Oregon Capital Chronicle.
Democratic women serving in the U.S. Senate held a press conference on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, about reproductive rights. Left to right, Sens. Jacky Rosen of Nevada, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Patty Murray of Washington, Debbie Stabenow of Michigan and Mazie K. Hirono of Hawaii. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is at right. (Photo by Lia Chien/States Newsroom)

WASHINGTON  Senate Democrats held a press conference Tuesday to stand up for reproductive rights and freedoms, criticizing a plan by a conservative think tank that if adopted would hinder abortion and contraception access in a Trump administration.

The lawmakers called attention to the potential restrictions former President Donald Trump could employ to reproductive health care if elected in November outlined in Project 2025, an almost 1,000-page conservative policy proposal.

The plan would restructure the federal government to be in line with Trumps political beliefs. The Trump campaign has said other groups do not speak for it, but the project is led by former staffers, including the chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management in the Trump administration.

Democratic Sen. Patty Murray from Washington state, who is the former chair of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, led the press event. She was joined by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sens. Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Mazie Hirono of Hawaii, Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Murray said Project 2025, drafted by the conservative Heritage Foundation, would pose a threat to access to reproductive care nationwide.

Donald Trump and his allies are planning a detailed road map, theyve given it out, to rip away a womans right to choose in every single state in America, she said.

Comstock Act

Murray addressed concerns about the Comstock Act, a key element of Republicans legal argument in restricting access to abortion in the United States.

In 1873, Congress passed the act to ban mailing of obscene matter, which includes abortion materials. In some interpretations of the law, the act could be used to prohibit mailing chemical abortion pills, like mifepristone. The Supreme Court last week unanimously rejected an effort to reduce access to mifepristone by anti-abortion groups.

Abortion pills accounted for 63% of abortions in the U.S. in 2023, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a reproductive rights nonprofit.

In line with the Roe v. Wade ruling that upheld abortion rights, chemical abortion pills were protected and it was legal to mail them. In December 2022 after the Supreme Court overturned Roe, the Department of Justice determined it is still legal to mail drugs like mifepristone despite the Comstock Act.

Still, Republicans potentially could use the Comstock Act to reduce abortion access under a second Trump presidency, the Project 2025 document indicates. Schumer highlighted a quote at Tuesdays press conference from Jonathan F. Mitchell, an architect of Project 2025 and lifelong anti-abortion advocate.

We dont need a federal ban when we have Comstock on the books, Mitchell said, quoted in the New York Times.

In May, Sen. Tina Smith from Minnesota announced she planned to introduce legislation to repeal the Comstock Act altogether.

Murray told reporters at Tuesdays event the DOJ has said Republicans could not use the Comstock Act to restrict abortion access.

Just let me make it very clear, said Murray. Our Department of Justice has made it very clear that Comstock does not apply.

IVF legislation

Schumer slammed Republicans for blocking Duckworths IVF access legislation last week. The bill needed 60 votes to advance but only received 48. Only two Republican senators voted to advance it: Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska.

In the last two weeks, Senate Republicans have shown that for all their attempts to sound moderate on reproductive care, when it comes time to vote, they choose MAGA extremism, said Schumer.

Schumer announced that he has begun the process of putting a new bill, the Reproductive Freedom for Women Act, on the legislative calendar. The proposed legislation co-sponsored by Murray and every Democratic woman in the Senate would express the sense of Congress that lawmakers should enshrin(e) the protections of Roe into law, Schumer said.

Trump appointments

The power of the courts was also a prime focus of lawmakers at the press conference.

Klobuchar, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted how Trumps appointments to federal courts had a major impact on not only the overturning of Roe, but in restricting reproductive care across the country, including abortion.

She highlighted that judges will be critical in protecting rights to legal standing in bringing cases and prohibiting extreme actions by a possible Trump administration. Senate Democrats are battling to keep control of the chamber in Novembers elections.

Every judge we confirm makes a difference, she said. We know the American people are with us. They are with us on having judges in place that actually respect the law.

During Trumps first term, he appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, and Amy Coney Barrett. All three were confirmed to the court by the Senate and will remain significant in writing opinions far beyond Trumps time in office.

Planned Parenthood

Senators at Tuesdays event called out a number of plans in Project 2025 that Democrats oppose. For example, the plan says the Department of Health and Human Services should make it clear states can defund Planned Parenthood in their Medicaid plans and should propose rules to disqualify Planned Parenthood from Medicaid.

Planned Parenthood is often the only option for women with low incomes seeking contraception, Hirono said.

Hirono also noted that Project 2025 proposed changing the name of the Department of Health and Human Services to the Department of Life.

This isnt about protecting life, said Hirono. This is about power and control and the Republicans obsession with controlling womens bodies.

Duckworth expressed frustration with Republicans who tell American voters that they care about womens rights but dont vote to protect them.

When the rubber meets the road and we ask not just for empty words on Twitter before their vote, they wont lift a finger to protect women in this country, she said.

Murray vowed to protect womens rights no matter the outcome of Novembers election.

We are fighting back, said Murray. Were doing everything we can to protect womens rights and we will be here to block anything that the Trump administration tries to do.

The post Democratic women in U.S. Senate target Project 2025 on reproductive rights appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
NANJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong has urged efforts to vigorously and effectively advance rural revitalization across the board and make every effort to prevent and mitigate disasters.

Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during an inspection tour in Shandong and Jiangsu from Sunday to Wednesday.

He emphasized the need to resolutely uphold the bottom line of ensuring national food security and forestalling any large-scale relapse into poverty. He also urged efforts to protect and make good use of aquatic germplasm resources, accelerate the innovation of fisheries science and technology, and improve the stable supply capacity of aquatic products.

Liu stressed efforts to vigorously promote the integrated development of urban and rural areas within counties, deepen rural reforms, and enhance the economic development momentum and vitality of counties.

As China has entered the flood season, he urged efforts to prepare for worst-case scenarios, ensure that those in charge have a stronger sense of responsibility, and minimize losses caused by disasters. 
While Republicans are more likely to self-identify as socially and fiscally conservative now than 20 years ago, Democrats self-identification shows a greater increase in liberal social and economic views.

A new Gallup poll shows around equal parts of Americans identifying as either conservative or liberal on social issues  a shift from 2023. Its important to note this data is self-identification rather than a detailed analyses of peoples individual views on a subject. Peoples self-identification is based on a variety of factors  what some may consider socially conservative in a blue state may be considered moderate in another state.

For the poll, Gallup interviewed 1,024 U.S. adults across the country and the margin of error is 4 percentage points.

Thirty-three percent of Americans self-identify as liberal and 32% as conservative on social issues. This differs from 2023. Thirty-eight percent of respondents had said their social views were conservative and around 29% said their views were liberal. The shift in those who identify as social conservatives is just outside the margin of error, so it may be too soon to tell how much of a change there really was from 2023 to 2024.

Gallup has data on this issue stretching back to 1999. Despite some fluctuation over time, liberal identification on social issues has gradually increased, while conservative and moderate identification has each gradually decreased slightly, Justin McCarthy wrote for Gallup.

2009 marked the highest point for respondents saying their views were socially conservative at 42% and 2022 was the highest point for those who said their views were liberal at 34%.

Self-identification data is different than viewpoint data. The majority of Americans say abortion, doctor-assisted suicide, sex outside of marriage, having children outside of wedlock, gay marriage and birth control are morally acceptable, per Gallup data. With these shifts in public opinion, so has the perception of what is and is not considered conservative.

Other data from Pew shows the majority of people who identify as conservative also identify with a particular religion. Its true that the majority of liberals also identify with a religion. While 11% of conservatives are unaffiliated with a religion, its 36% for liberals.

Gallup has observed a gap, too. Thirty-three percent of the religious nones, or people unaffiliated with a religion, lean Democratic, only 12% of nones lean Republican.

Looked at differently, across the combined 2021-2023 data, equal proportions of Americans identified as Democratic or Democratic-leaning (46%) or Republican or Republican-leaning (46%), wrote Frank Newport. Yet, the group of Americans who are religious nones split 63% Democratic versus 26% Republican  far different from the population at large.

There are religious groups like Catholics that have a long history of affiliation with the Democratic Party, so religion is not a definitive predictor of political ideology. On social issues, religious people tend to be more conservative than unaffiliated people.

When the 2023 data showed something of an uptick in most demographic groups identifying as socially conservative, Daniel A. Cox, senior fellow at American Enterprise Institute, told the Deseret News that he doesnt think the country is becoming more conservative. Instead, he saw it as blowback to what conservatives may see as rapid shifts.

What can be said about the 2024 data is that it shows there has been a steady increase in people identifying as socially liberal and a slight decrease over time in people identifying as social conservatives.

On economic issues, a plurality of Americans still self-identify as conservative.

Thirty-nine percent of respondents said they were economically conservative, which is down from 44% said in 2023. Another 23% said they were fiscally liberal and 35% said they were moderate.

During the tea party movement, respondents self-identifying as fiscal conservatives reached its height at 51%  the only time Gallups polling has ever showed a majority going one way. That year, 15% of respondents said they were fiscally liberal and 33% said they were moderates. The tea party movement was marked not only by candidates saying they wanted to slash federal spending, but also constitutional originalism  especially as it pertained to separation of powers. This may also be reflected in the data around social views. It was precipitated by a recession and global financial crisis.

A group of people self-identifying as moderates have remained the most steady compared to self-identified social and fiscal conservatives and liberals, which have seen some fluctuation.

Party-specific data shows significant movement. In 2024, 74% of Republicans identify as social conservatives  thats up from 64% in 2004 and 68% in 2014.

Democrats have seen even more of a shift. In 2004, 39% of them said they were liberal on social issues, but now that number is 69%. It jumped almost 20 points from 2014 when it was 48%.

While 20% of Democrats said they were socially conservative in 2004, that number has decreased to 6% in 2024.

As for economic issues, Republicans are now more likely to self-identify as conservative, 82%, compared to 64% in 2004.

Democrats are more likely now to say they are economically liberal (49%), but a good amount of the respondents in the party still say they are moderate (44%). Thats compared to 13% of Republican respondents saying they are moderate on economic issues.

Back in 2004, just over a quarter of Democrats said they were fiscally conservative. In 2024, that number is 5%.

The growth in liberal views among Democrats has outpaced that in conservative views among Republicans, which were already the dominant position among the latter group, wrote McCarthy. As the ideological makeup of political independents has remained steady, the liberalization of Democratic views has altered the national averages on both social and economic issues.

Breaking down the results by gender, men were more likely to say they were conservative or very conservative on social issues than women. Across political parties, 36% of men said they were conservative compared to 28% of women.

Around the same number of men and women said they were moderate.

More women said they were liberal or very liberal (37%) on social issues compared to men at 29%.

On fiscal issues, the trend is similar. Nearly half of men (46%) say they are fiscal conservatives and 33% of women say the same. Twenty-seven percent of women say they are liberal fiscally while only 17% of men respond in that same way.

This data point reaffirms what some experts have seen as a growing gap between men and women politically. Cox has been one of the most vocal in pointing toward this trend. Others like Josh Good have questioned whether or not this trend really exists because men and women poll similarly on specific issues. While Gallups self-identification does not show us election voting trends or issue-specific differences, it does indicate that men and women may see themselves as politically different.

Looking at the data from the perspective of educational attainment, the most liberal cohort socially are those who graduated from college, at 41%. Among respondents who have a high school diploma or less education, 39% identified as social conservatives.

Twenty-four percent of college graduates and 23% of people with a high school diploma or less said they were liberal fiscally. As for fiscal conservatives, 44% of respondents with a high school diploma or less said they were as did 34% of college graduates.

Its difficult to ascertain whether or not shifts in identifying as socially or fiscally liberal map onto party affiliation, but right now, the country is more or less evenly divided among Republicans and Democrats.

A report from Pew found that the 49% of respondents identify themselves as Democrat and 48% as Republican. This shift means there are fewer Democrats than they were before, especially in 2017 to 2021.

Gallup has tracked a similar shift  especially during the pandemic.

During 2021, Gallup said there was a drop among those who self-identified as Democrats. In the first quarter of that year, around 49% said they were, but by the end of the year, it was 42%. Whereas Republicans saw a gain, 40% to 47%.
Denmark on June 18 announced its 19th assistance package for Ukraine, including financial support for Ukraine's defense industry, equipment for F-16 fighter jets, and donations from Danish military stocks.

The first Danish F-16s are scheduled to arrive in Ukraine this summer. Kyiv expects to receive the aircraft also from the Netherlands, Belgium, and Norway.

As part of Copenhagen's commitment to supporting Ukraine for the next 10 years, the country has developed a donation model via the Ukrainian defense industry to help directly develop Ukraine's military production.

The 19th package will allow the use of the sum of 1.2 billion Danish kroner (over $170 million) allocated under the two most recent packages to quickly meet Ukraine's needs. The first donations should begin this summer.

"Europe is at a fateful moment. Russia's war against Ukraine has been going on for over two years, and the situation on the battlefield is dire," Danish Foreign Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen said.

"Investing in the Ukrainian defense industry is an effective and sustainable way to support Ukrainian combat capability, both here and now and in the long term."

Denmark has already allocated 64.8 billion Danish kroner (over $9 billion) in military aid under its Ukraine fund for the period of 2023-2028.

Read also: Time will play in Ukraines favor once F-16s and more Western aid arrive, Syrskyi says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Danish government is sending its 19th financial package to provide military support for Ukraine's urgent needs and the long-term development of its defene capabilities.

Source: Danish Ministry of Defence on 18 June; European Pravda

The aid package combines a framework for financing significant donations to the Ukrainian defence industry, additional equipment to support the F-16 fighter jets provided by Denmark, and donations from the Danish Defence Ministry's reserves.

Quote: "Thanks to the latest donation package, we are providing as much support as possible to meet Ukraine's needs on the battlefield here and now. However, we also have Denmark's security commitment to support Ukraine for the next ten years.

That is why we have created a Danish model for donations to the Ukrainian defence industry, which will help increase Ukrainian production of military equipment in the short and long term," said Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.

The assistance package includes a number of different agreements with Ukraines allies on procurement and donations from the defence industries of NATO member states; among other things, this includes more equipment to support the F-16 fighters donated by Denmark.

In the last two aid packages, DKK 1.2 billion (about US$117 million) was earmarked for investment in the Ukrainian defence industry. The ministry noted that the new package allows the distribution of DKK 1.2 billion so that the Danish Ministry of Defene can quickly meet Ukraine's needs. The first project is expected to start in the summer.

Background:

On 13 June, Ukraine and Denmark signed a memorandum of understanding on the purchase of weapons and equipment from Ukrainian manufacturers.

In May, Oleksandr Kamyshin, Minister for Strategic Industries of Ukraine, said that two Western countries, Denmark and Canada, had agreed to fund weapons production in the Ukrainian defence industry.

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Des Moines is starting to search for its next police chief. What's the process?

The job posting to hire the next police chief of Iowa's capital city is slated to go live next month, Des Moines city officials say.

Des Moines Civil Service Commission on Tuesday approved beginning the process for recruiting the successor to Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert, who is set to retire this year after nearly a decade in charge of the department and more than three decades in law enforcement. Under Iowa Code, the commission oversees the appointment, dismissal and discipline of civil service employees such as police and fire chiefs, firefighters and police officers.

Wingert, 54, is scheduled to exit his role in October, senior Human Resources business partner Allison Lambert told the commission on Tuesday, though the exact date is unknown. The hiring process could take three to four months, Lambert said.

Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert speaks about the federal sentencing of Xzavier Clark, a member of the C-Block street gang, during a press conference at the U.S. Attorney's office in Des Moines on Friday, Feb. 14, 2020.

The Des Moines Police Department serves a population of more than 211,000 people. With 379 sworn officers and 98 civilian employees, the police department is the largest in the state of Iowa.

Here's what to know about the search for Des Moines' next police chief:

More: Des Moines Police Chief Dana Wingert will retire after over 3 decades in law enforcement

How will the recruitment process work?

The hiring process already has started with focus group meetings between city leaders, community stakeholders, the Civil Service Commission and an internal police department employee survey, according to Human Resources Director James Wells.

The city also hired Public Sector Search & Consulting, a California-based company that focuses exclusively on recruiting police executives, according to the firm's website. The company has helped recruit police chiefs in Dallas, Texas, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and Boulder, Colorado.

The input from the stakeholder meetings will be used to create a job posting, which will be published on various sites, and passed on to Public Sector Search & Consulting to aid in the effort, Wells said. The recruitment period is slated to last about a month once the job is posted in mid-July, according to Wells.

Both internal and external candidates are welcome to apply.

Applicants will be screened for "minimum qualifications," according to a Human Resources memo, and then those who qualify will be invited to take an oral exam with the Civil Service Commission.

The commission eventually will certify a list of eligible applicants, which will then go on to the hiring manager, Des Moines City Manager Scott Sanders. Sanders' appointment will go to the Des Moines City Council for a final vote, Wells said.

Will the names of the applicants be open to the public?

The list of certified candidates will be public record, according to Wells.

He added a lot of the public input is part of the "pre-work" to develop the job posting to give the city manager an idea of what the community is looking for in its next police chief.

Virginia Barreda is the Des Moines city government reporter for the Register. She can be reached at vbarreda@dmreg.com. Follow her on Twitter at @vbarreda2.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Des Moines starts search for a new police chief. What's the process?
HERNANDO, Miss.  An inmate who escaped from the DeSoto County courthouse last week walked out in shower shoes and asked a stranger for a ride, the countys sheriff said Wednesday.

Joshua James Zimmerman has been on the run since just before 8 a.m. Friday. He had an attempted murder charge out of Southaven and a murder charge in Texas, and was scheduled for a hearing when he escaped.

DeSoto County Sheriff Thomas E. Tuggle II said Zimmerman did not change clothes and had no connections to the area. He exploited a flaw in the buildings design to make his escape.

He left the courthouse in a pair of pajamas and shower shoes, walked across the street, and asked for a ride from a Good Samaritan, telling the man that he had just been in a fight with his wife.

That person, who was headed to Memphis, gave him a ride, Tuggle said.

Manhunt underway after inmate escapes from courthouse in DeSoto County, MS

Tuggle said Zimmerman had a six-minute headstart on deputies. The city was locked down in eight minutes  Zimmerman got away in seven.

Tuggle was not clear in his answer to a question on whether Zimmerman was shackled, just repeating that he was a career criminal who studied how to escape shackles.

DeSoto County D.A. frustrated after career criminal escapes

Tuggle said Zimmerman has the potential for violence, but stressed that people in DeSoto County were safe. He would not answer whether Zimmerman is believed to be in the area.

Zimmerman, if youre out there and you hear this, turn yourself in, because were gonna find you, and I promise you were gonna put your gluteus maximus in a cell by yourself, Tuggle said.

There is a $10,000 reward from the U.S. Marshals Service for Zimmermans arrest. They say he is believed to have shaven his beard since his escape.

Zimmerman is considered armed and dangerous, do not approach him, marshals said in a news release. He has ties to Memphis, Tennessee, and Waterbury, Connecticut.

WREG has reached out to Memphis police to see if theyre also searching for Zimmerman. They say, they are assisting as needed and will follow up on any leads they receive.

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.
Details about an alleged kidnapping outside a coffee shop continue to emerge as investigators seek a Texas man accused in the case.

A Kasey Alert last Friday notified the public that Isabel Brown, 43, had been kidnapped.

Multiple witnesses told Oklahoma County sheriffs deputies the alleged abduction occurred in front of the Coffee Jerk coffee shop near NW 178 and MacArthur Boulevard.

Sheriffs office investigators now are seeking a 23-year-old Forth Worth, Texas, man, according to an affidavit for an arrest warrant. He is accused of kidnapping, robbery and aggravated assault and battery.

The affidavit said deputies were dispatched on reports that Brown was taken at gunpoint and placed in a vehicle by two armed men wearing ski masks.

Deputies at the scene interviewed witnesses. They also found a dark Tesla still running with the driver-side door open. Witnesses said the Tesla belonged to Brown.

Investigators who watched video from a local business saw two Black men with long rifles and handguns grab the woman and place her in a silver Chevrolet car, according to the affidavit.

More: Officials investigate alleged kidnapping after Kasey Alert issued, 43-year-old is found

The FBI was called in to process the Tesla said to have belonged to Brown.

FBI technicians obtained four photographs from the Tesla. One photo showed a Black man wearing green pants, a dark hoodie with a CAT Diesel Power logo and a beanie hat. He was armed with a long rifle and had no mask, according to the affidavit.

Investigators learned Brown was dropped off at May Avenue near Interstate 240 once the statewide Kasey Alert went out.

Brown told investigators the man wearing the CAT hoodie beat her and choked her to the point of unconsciousness. She also told investigators the man threatened to kill her and pointed a handgun at her several times.

She claimed to have had about $250,000 in cash stolen from her vehicle and told authorities the alleged suspects met another man at a gas station where they divided up the cash.

Brown also claimed the men stole $10,000 from her mobile cash payment app and sent it to their accounts. One of them repeatedly asked her if she wanted to go to Arkansas, and whether anyone would pay a ransom to keep her alive, Brown told investigators.

Brown said she told her captors she didnt have any more money, but could possibly get someone to pay $100,000 for her release.

She told investigators she didnt recognize her alleged kidnappers, but mentioned they had very country accents.

Investigators used facial recognition software to identify the 23-year-old man from Fort Worth, Texas.

Brown picked him out of a photo lineup, according to the affidavit. She told investigators he was the man who is alleged to have assaulted her and threatened to kill her.

Sheriffs office spokesman Aaron Brilbeck previously told The Oklahoman that EMSA was called to assess Brown's condition. He said she was not injured.

"At this point, we don't believe that it was a random kidnapping, he said. We believe the motive may have been robbery," he said.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma woman says $250K was stolen from her in kidnapping
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A rural fire district that serves the Detroit and Idanha areas broke ground on a new fire station after the Santiam Fire destroyed 70% of the lakeside community and its firehouse in the summer of 2020.

The Idanha-Detroit Rural Fire Protection District held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 15 at the intersection of Blowout Road and Highway 22 on Monday to celebrate the building of a new firehouse, which the fire district hopes to complete by the summer of 2025.

The Idanha-Detroit Rural Fire Protection District breaks ground on a new firehouse. (Photo courtesy of Sen. Ron Wyden)

We are grateful for all of the support from the Idanha-Detroit community and beyond excited for all of the great things to come with the completion of our new fire station, Idanha-Detroit Rural Fire Protection District shared on social media.

Propane explosions damage road, I-5 northbound remains closed

The Santiam Fire, which started as three separate lightning fires and combined to burn more than 400,000 acres, also destroyed one of the districts fire engines and damaged its brush truck. In the aftermath of the fires, the district was awarded $2.4 million from the states Coronavirus Relief Fund. The district is using these funds to build its new fire station, which is still in the planning stages.

The fire of Sept. 9, 2020 produced damage of monumental, catastrophic proportions, the City of Detroit website states.  The fire destroyed over 1,500 structures in the Santiam Canyon, which included massive destruction to the city of Detroit, becoming one of the most destructive wildfires in the history of Oregon.

A fire engine from the Idanha-Detroit Rural Fire Protection District sits on Detroit Avenue Friday, Sept. 11, 2020, in Detroit, Ore. (Mark Ylen/Albany Democrat-Herald via AP)

The local community gathering to celebrate the building of a new fire station caught the attention of Sen. Ron Wyden, who also expressed his support of the project.

Gratified to see the Idanha-Detroit Rural Fire Protection District broke ground this weekend on its new fire station, Wyden said. These firefighters battling blazes here in Marion and Linn counties as well as firefighters throughout Oregon are real community heroes who deserve the best.

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.
Did anti-racism advocacy lead to Tacoma professor losing his job? His lawsuit says so

A former University of Washington Tacoma assistant professor who was denied tenure claims to have been wrongfully terminated because he advocated for Black co-workers and other protected-class members, according to a recently filed lawsuit.

Jarek Sierschynski sued the university in Pierce County Superior Court on June 13. He also alleged that the school ran afoul of faculty code in handling his tenure process, did not accommodate his mental health disability and violated state law by requiring him to continue working despite being on family medical leave.

The University of Washington Tacoma does not comment on pending litigation, a school spokesperson said in a statement. As such, we are not offering a statement at this time in response to the complaint for damages that has been filed in Pierce County Superior Court.

The suit described Sierschynskis unsuccessful efforts to be granted tenure, an appointment that effectively guarantees indefinite job security. In denying his attempts, beginning in 2019, the university violated faculty code by not following requirements, time periods, guidance, policies and procedures, according to the filing.

The process, which extended for roughly two years, had caused him substantial stress, the suit said. In February 2021, he was diagnosed with anxiety and depression and spent nearly three months on medical leave.

Even while out on leave, the university required Sierschynski to keep working on his tenure application, the suit said. He filed a complaint with the University Complaint Investigation and Resolution Office (UCIRO) in April 2021, and UCIRO ultimately determined that his disability and medical leave rights had been violated, according to the filing.

Sierschynski was eventually notified that his position as an assistant professor would be terminated on June 15, 2022.

James McCanna, an attorney representing Sierschynski, told The News Tribune on Monday that he couldnt immediately comment because he needed approval from his client to discuss the claims.

The suit didnt specify the race of Sierschynski, who had worked in the universitys School of Education, but McCanna confirmed he is white. The filing noted instances when Sierschynski spoke out against what he believed were racist hiring practices.

In March 2017, he authored an open email to the university expressing concern about the hiring of a white job candidate over a Black candidate and accused the schools system of under-representing and disenfranchising Black people, the suit said. The filing noted that the emails recipients included seven faculty members who later voted on one or more of Sierschynskis tenure applications.

Roughly two years after sending the email, Sierschynski supported a Black woman who had been dismissed from the Education program, believing that she had been subjected to racism. He also backed a Black Muslim female students open letter to a university dean complaining about institutional racism, the suit said.

The lawsuit is seeking front and back pay, unspecified damages to be determined at trial and legal fees, among other relief.
How did North Korean soldiers wander across the world's most heavily guarded border?

In this undated photo provided on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, by South Korea Defense Ministry, North Korean soldiers work at an undisclosed location near the border area, as seen from a South Korean guard area. South Korean soldiers fired warning shots to repel North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the rivals' land border Tuesday for the second time this month, South Korea's military said. (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Dont believe the name: The Demilitarized Zone between the two rival Koreas might be the most heavily armed place on earth. Two million mines, barbed wire fences, tank traps and tens of thousands of troops from both countries patrol a divided swath of land 248 kilometers (154 miles) long and 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) wide.

So how are North Korean soldiers continuing to wander over the line separating North from South, causing South Korea to fire warning shots for the third time this month?

The short answer appears to be shrubbery: Because of an overgrowth of foliage, the North Koreans may not have seen the signs marking the thin military demarcation line that divides the DMZ into northern and southern sides.

But it's also just the latest entry in the long, often violent history of the unique border set up after the 1950-53 Korean War. It ended with an armistice, instead of a peace treaty, leaving the Korean Peninsula divided, and technically still in a state of war.

Heres a look at the events surrounding the incursion:

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What happened?

On Friday, South Koreas military said it had fired warnings shots the previous day to repel several North Korean soldiers who briefly crossed the military demarcation line that divides the countries while engaging in unspecified construction work.

Seouls Joint Chiefs of Staff said the North Koreans retreated shortly after South Korean soldiers broadcast a warning and fired the shots Thursday morning, but didnt immediately release more details.

Similar incidents took place on June 9 and June 18, each involving some 20 to 30 North Korean soldiers briefly crossing the demarcation line and retreating shortly after the South Koreans broadcast audio warnings and fired warning shots.

South Koreas military says the incursions were likely accidents, noting that the North Koreans did not return fire and withdrew immediately.

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What does the demarcation line look like?

The demarcation line, in many parts of the DMZ, is simply a sign mounted on a stick or a slice of concrete.

People have stepped across it before, under very special circumstances, and usually at the border village of Panmunjom. Former U.S. President Donald Trump walked across with Kim Jong Un. Last year an American soldier facing possible military discipline dashed over the line to the North.

Outside of Panmunjom, much of the DMZ is wilderness, but it is heavily monitored on both sides. And while the demarcation line may be easily crossed, it is very difficult to do so without being spotted immediately.

The southern side of the land border is protected not only by thousands of soldiers, guns and mines, but also by a dense network of cameras, motion sensors and other high-tech surveillance equipment. Breaches are very rare and are usually detected quickly. Defections from the North are also unusual along the North-South land border, though they have happened with frequency along the porous China-North Korea border and occasionally in the Yellow Sea.

The Norths accidental intrusions this month may have been caused by a sudden jump in North Korean troops fortifying their side of the border.

Because overgrown trees and plants may have been obscuring the signs marking the demarcation line, Seoul says, the North Korean troops may have stepped over the line without knowing it.

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Why are so many North Koreans working in the DMZ?

Relations between the rival Koreas are worse now than in many years.

Recent weeks have seen a tit-for-tat standoff that has resulted in Cold War-style psychological warfare. Both sides have said they are no longer bound by a landmark military agreement in 2018 to reduce tensions.

The North Koreans along the border, Seoul says, have been installing what appear to be anti-tank barriers, reinforcing roads and planting land mines, even as mine explosions have killed or wounded an unspecified number of North Korean soldiers.

The construction started around April and may be an attempt to curb North Koreans trying to defect to the South, according to Seouls military.

Animosities may worsen as Kim continues to accelerate his nuclear weapons and missiles development and align with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the face of their separate, escalating confrontations with Washington.

On Thursday, South Koreas government condemned an agreement by Kim and Putin at their summit this week in which the two nations vowed to aid each other if attacked. In turn, Seoul said it will consider sending arms to Ukraine to help it fight Russias invasion.

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Could it happen again?

Possibly, especially if the North Korean construction continues along the demarcation line.

But both sides appear intent on containing their animosities to the psychological warfare theyre engaging in.

Still, there are worries that the hostilities are pushing them closer to a direct military clash. The Koreas have had no meaningful talks for years and could find it difficult to set up dialogue as tensions rise over the Norths development of nuclear-capable weapons.

Some analysts say the Koreas poorly marked western sea boundary  site of skirmishes and attacks in past years  is more likely to be a crisis point than the land border.

Kim, during a fiery speech in January, reiterated that his country does not recognize the Northern Limit Line in the Yellow Sea, which was drawn up by the U.S.-led U.N. Command at the end of the war. North Korea insists on a boundary that encroaches deeply into South Korea-controlled waters.

While the huge military presence on both sides of the DMZ means that years sometimes pass without incident, violence can quickly erupt. Two American Army officers were axed to death in 1976 by North Korean soldiers, for instance.

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Klug, AP's news director for the Koreas, reported from Tokyo.
The fallout from Disneys decision to relocate hundreds of employees from California to Florida continues, as a class action lawsuit was filed on Tuesday in Los Angeles Superior Court by attorneys for current Disney employees Maria De La Cruz, George Fong and all others similarly situated proposed class members. The lawsuit demands a jury trial.

This class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of employees like De La Cruz, a vice president of product design, and Fong, a creative director of product design, who were fraudulently induced to move from the companys California offices to its proposed Lake Nona, Florida development. When Disney then decided that they would no longer require the requested 2,000 employees to move to Florida, shuttering the sprawling Lake Nona campus amid an ongoing  and since squashed  battle with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, it left many Disney employees reeling. Some had already moved to Florida, others who hadnt made the to move to the Sunshine State found themselves without a job and still others were now being forced to return to California.

At the time, it was an incredibly painful situation. After the company had reversed their decision, many employees, who were reluctant about moving to Florida, asked about staying on in California. They were told that a Florida employee had already taken their old job. This happened again and again.

A lawsuit isnt hugely surprising, in that respect, which details employees in a division of the company formerly known as DPEP (Disney Parks Experiences and Consumer Products) being forced to decide about proposed relocation within 90 days.

Disney emphasized the contemporary nature of the planned facilities, including its collaborative workspaces, large group gathering spaces, extensive amenities and efficient transportation options, the lawsuit reads. Disney also emphasized the affordability of the Orlando housing market, the availability of strong performing schools and the availability of lifestyle amenities in and around Lake Nona.

The lawsuit details the anguish of having to move and then having to move back. These employees were given the choice to sell their Southern California homes and leave their communities primarily because Disney represented that their job security at Disney was dependent upon their relocation to Florida, but also because Disney represented that their work groups would now be centralized in Florida, and by constructing the Lake Nona campus, Disney was providing them with a modernized, comfortable and centralized workplace where they could effectively perform their job duties. In sum, employees were incentivized to move through a combination of reward and punishment. An employee could choose to move to a better life in Florida, or alternatively, choose not to move and be terminated by Disney, the lawsuit reads.

Allegations also include Disney concealing facts inconsistent with its representations in order to induce employees to move to Florida, stating that Disneys plans to build a state-of-the-art facility were in fact, not true. There is also a mention that Disney addressed the plans, apologizing to those impacted and expressing that the situation was a mistake on Disneys part.

The unfortunate irony is that the employees most harmed were Disneys most loyal employees, attorney Jason S. Lohr said in a statement to TheWrap. Disney needs to make this right for their best and most loyal employees.

The post Disney Employees Sue Media Giant for Fraudulently Inducing Them to Move to Florida in Spiked Campus Initiative appeared first on TheWrap.
TOKYO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Japan logged a trade deficit of 1.22 trillion yen (about 7.7 billion U.S. dollars) in May, said a government report on Wednesday.

The country remained in the red for the second month, as the weak yen offset gains from the robust growth in exports that hit a record high last month while boosting the value of imports.

The country's total exports expanded 13.5 percent from a year earlier to 8.28 trillion yen, a record for May, boosted by continued strength in auto and chip-making machinery demand, preliminary data from the Ministry of Finance showed.

Total imports, meanwhile, rose 9.5 percent year on year to 9.5 trillion yen, boosted by petroleum products and crude oil among other items.

By destination, Japan's exports to the United States grew 23.9 percent to 1.70 trillion yen, while imports jumped 29.7 percent to 1.23 trillion yen, leading to a surplus of 473.64 billion yen, up 10.9 percent from a year earlier.

With China, Japan booked a trade deficit of 533.09 billion yen, with exports and imports up 17.8 percent and 12.3 percent, respectively, both hitting record highs for the month, the data showed.

Japan's overall exports to Asia, including China, grew by 13.6 percent, while those to the European Union fell by 10.1 percent during the reporting period. (1 U.S. dollar equals 157.76 Japanese yen) 
What does Juneteenth mean in an era of ongoing racial unrest? Study and celebrate more.

In our Kaleidoscope newsletter, we cover race, culture and equity in Charlotte and showcase a multitude of people and experiences that make the Queen City special. Subscribe for free. Story idea? Lvernonsparks@charlotteobserver.com

Around Charlotte and the region, some Juneteenth celebrations started happening well before the June 19 holiday.

In Plaza Midwood, a three-day Juneteenth festival parade hosted by Pape Ndiaye, began last week and ended this past Sunday. Revelers canvassed the streets with colorful and fanciful abandonment.

If you missed that one, our CharlotteFive team has had its best recommendations for June 19 available for weeks for those who like to plan ahead.

Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas, founded by Pape Ndiaye, will host a three-day festival celebrating Juneteenth in Charlotte from June 13-16 in Plaza Midwood.

Its another thing for our social calendars, but Juneteenth is more than that: Its a day of emancipation worthy of flourish and festive display.

It commemorates the events that took place June 19, 1865, the day when the last group of enslaved Blacks, who lived in Galveston, Texas, finally learned from Union Army troops that they were, indeed finally, free. The Emancipation Proclamation had been signed two years earlier, and while the news spread, freedom wasnt official until all had heard the truth.

As Americans celebrate July 4th as our nations independence from British rule, so does the African American community -- and now others  embrace the history and legacy of Juneteenth, especially since becoming a federal holiday in 2021.

But what does Juneteenth mean in a day and age where racial injustice continues to challenge and confound our society?

Following George Floyds murder, protests erupted everywhere. Diversity, equity and inclusion policies, while already in existence in some form, became an established practice at most companies and schools. The Black Lives Matter movement, while already in place before 2020, propelled in significance. Many said, look at this travesty of George Floyd. We have to do something. And so we did.

But now it seems much of this progress is unraveling.

Its really difficult to celebrate (Juneteenth) when our freedoms continue to be in question and our freedoms, our liberation, continue to be under fire and being threatened and attacked, said Valerie Kinloch, president of Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte.

Kinloch also notes that many people dont understand what Juneteenth is  and that lack of understanding hinders its reach in reach and cultural significance.

Were not teaching it. Were not actually teaching. Its not a requirement in (our) curriculum, she shared with The Charlotte Observer.

We need to honor it, we need to elevate it, but people need to understand why Juneteenth is really fundamentally important, not just for Black people, but for this entire country when we have conversations about freedom and justice.

Kinloch questions how society can expand the conversations beyond higher education to ask what things Black communities need to live out the freedoms represented by Juneteenth?

How do we center our voices and perspectives in these larger conversations, as opposed to allowing these mandates to come from the top on down and then continue to impact Black communities, she said. The way that this country has talked about diversity, equity and inclusion has never been enough.

Positioned for slow success?

Dan Aldridge, III, a history professor and department chair of Africana Studies at Davidson College, says the struggle for Black people is always happening. Any events that become catalysts for change (such as the deaths of Trayvon Martin, Mike Brown, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, to name only a few) always will be followed by a period where people will push back.

It happened after the Civil War with the Reconstruction. It happened after the Civil Rights movement in the 60s and 70s. It happens now. Theres always push and pull back and forth. Theres always a permanent struggle. Theres no, like, its over,  he said.

We are better off than our grandparents, says Aldridge, who was born during the Jim Crow era in a Tennessee hospital. Americans tend to have an optimistic view of the world, that perfection can be achieved, but all societies have inequalities and struggles whether they have race, like we do, or not, Aldridge said.

They have internal struggles, inequities, class division. These are kind of, like, permanent features of the human condition. We can make them better, but well never entirely defeat them.

He added that holidays, like anything else, take time to grow on people.

Its mostly a coincidence that Juneteenth is right at the start of the American summer season and how we culturally celebrate.

July 4th is on the horizon and theres a heat dome happening in some parts of the country, so the weather is doing its part. There are barbecues, parades, and parties. Juneteenth was celebrated this way for years in Texas and in the south. Black History month is in February and traces its origins to Carter G. Woodson and Negro History Week being honored near Abraham Lincolns and Frederick Douglass birthdays. Christmas is right near the December winter solstice festival and Kwanzaa falls right after.

Frequently holidays succeed because they kind of build on precedents, and what people already think in their culture are sort of established holiday practices, he said. I think thats going to be part of what happens at Juneteenth. It (has) happened to every holiday, if you think about it.

Give it some time. Juneteenth will find its place among the racial unrest, the good, the bad, the progress, the rollback. Study more to understand. Celebrate more to embrace victory.
Does SC have age limits for jury duty? Heres whos eligible to serve

Every year South Carolinas State Election Commission sends county jury commissioners a list of residents eligible to serve their community as jurors. Names are randomly selected from this list to summon potential jurors.

But are there age limits for service?

According to the South Carolina Judicial Branch a qualified juror:

Is over the age of 18 years

Has United States citizenship

Resides in the South Carolina

Can read, write, speak and understand English

Hasnt been convicted of a crime that carries a sentence of more than one year of imprisonment except in cases of pardons or amnesty

Is not a clerk of court, deputy clerk of court, constable, sheriff, commissioned law enforcement officer, probate judge, county commissioner, magistrate, or county officer, or otherwise employed in courthouse

Has a sixth grade education or its equivalent

Does not have a mental or physical condition preventing jury service

Has not served on a circuit court jury within the current calendar year

While the law has no maximum age limit, residents over the age of 65 can be excused from service. According to the South Carolina Judicial Branch website, the state will exempt:

People 65 years of age or older who wish to be excused

Primary caretakers of a disabled person or a person age 65 or older who requires care

People with legal custody and duty of care of a child under the age of seven and who cant provide adequate childcare

Guards, keepers, employees, and other officers at a state penitentiary

People who have served on a circuit court jury during the previous two calendar years

People who have served on a grand jury during the previous four calendar years

But these exemptions arent automatic. To be excused, residents summoned must submit an affidavit. More information about exemptions from jury service can be found here, on the South Carolina Judicial Branch website.
Donald Trump's allies have insisted that his criminal conviction in New York would actually help him in the campaign, arguing that the public would buy the former president's claim that the prosecution amounted to political persecution. But a new poll raises serious doubts about that prediction and suggest Trump has lost ground among independent voters since the verdict came down.

A Politico Magazine/Ipsos poll released Monday found that 22 percent of respondents said that Trump's conviction is important to how they will vote and makes them less inclined to support the former president, compared to just 6 percent who said the conviction affects how they plan to vote and makes them more likely to support Trump.

Trump's recent conviction had a similar result among independent voters, with 21% reporting it made them less likely to support him and factored into their voting plans. That percentage is notable given that even minor shifts in independent and swing-voters could sway the election if the race is close.

Such a shift also isn't surprising given what researchers know about "notoriously unpredictable" independent voters, according to Thom Reilly, a professor of public affairs at Arizona State University and co-director of ASU's Center for an Independent and Sustainable Democracy.

"We've clearly seen that [the conviction is] not making a difference with Democrats and Republicans," Reilly told Salon. "So it makes sense that the one group that perhaps it may move the needle on and impact how they vote are independents."

Independents "represent the political spectrum" but seem to be bound together by two prominent "thematic issues," explained Reilly, a co-author of "The Independent Voter," a 2022 book analyzing the rise of the voting bloc. A portion of independents tend to be "anti-corruption," he said, which aligns with an indication that they may be more hesitant to support a candidate who's been convicted of a felony. Those voters have also centralized around "anti-incumbency" as seen in recent presidential elections, Reilly said, pointing to former President Barack Obama's eight-point lead with the voting bloc in 2008  which became a five-point deficit with independents in his 2012 re-election bid  Trump's four-point lead in 2016 and Biden's 13-point lead in 2020.

"They seem to be moving, and some of that may be because [they're] just wanting something different, or the problem the parties make when independents may vote in the plurality for their party: they tend to treat them as partisans, and they're not, so they get disenfranchised," he said.

Robert Lieberman, a professor of political science at Johns Hopkins University, told Salon he expects independent voters to be one of the main demographics to determine the outcome of this year's election, especially in competitive states. Whether the former president's conviction will ultimately come home to roost at the polls will depend on how those voters feel  and their likelihood of actually voting.

"A lot of those voters are probably also people who are among the people who feel, right now, that they're not energized by the choice between Biden and Trump," Lieberman said. Of those whom the poll indicates have been swayed by the conviction, "is it enough to get those people off their couch and to the polling place or to a mailbox to vote" if they otherwise might not have voted?

A Manhattan jury found Trump guilty late last month of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to cover up a $130,000 hush money payment made to an adult-film star ahead of the 2016 presidential election to conceal their alleged affair from voters. The former president has continuously denied wrongdoing and the allegations, and has signaled plans to appeal the verdict after his July 11 sentencing.

Thirty-eight percent of all respondents to the Politico survey indicated Trump's conviction had no influence over their level of support for a Trump presidency, but among those for which the verdict did have an impact, the results were uneven. Thirty-three percent said the conviction made them less likely to support the presumptive GOP nominee, while just 17 percent said it made them more likely to.

The results looked similar when specified to independent voters, with 32 percent saying the verdict made them less likely to support Trump and only 12 percent reporting it would make them more likely to support him. The former figure is down four percent from a pre-conviction poll Politico Magazine/Ipsos published in March that asked only how a guilty verdict in the Manhattan case would affect voters' support for the former president.

Altogether, Politico writes, the latest poll results "suggest that Americans views on the Trump verdict may still be malleable  and could get better or worse for Trump."

His sentencing and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's upcoming testimony before Congress about the case are among a slew of events that could further influence public opinion before the election, regardless of political campaigns' efforts to do so. Hunter Biden's conviction last week on felony gun charges and a trial on tax charges slated for September could also play a part as they undercut right-wing claims that the Biden administration has "weaponized" the Justice Department against Trump, the outlet notes.

For now, however, some of the results seem to also suggest Americans' are overwhelmingly indifferent about the conviction as far as it pertains to how they plan to vote.

Forty-seven percent of politically independent respondents said Trump's conviction had no affect on their support of the former president or their voting plans in November. That apparent indifference was also reflected by the survey takers overall, with 40 percent of all respondents saying the same.

Other polls from shortly before or after Trump's conviction had similar findings. A late May PBS NewsHour/NPR/Marist poll conducted during the Manhattan trial saw 67 percent of respondents saying the conviction would have no impact on their vote  including 74 percent of independents  while a recontacting survey conducted by The New York Times noted just a two-point decrease in support for the former president among registered voters that still gave him a one point lead over Joe Biden.

These results mark a stark contrast from earlier surveys of registered voters' expected reactions to a guilty verdict, which often saw not insignificant percentages of respondents indicating in one way or another that his conviction would turn them off from supporting him or voting for him come November.

Lieberman said he'd always been skeptical of the polls and claims that suggested Trump's conviction would not have a "big impact."

"Unless you're Rip Van Winkle, and you just woke up from a 10 year nap, your views of Donald Trump are pretty well fixed, and an additional piece of information that he was convicted of this thing that pretty much everyone knew he did  it's not really breathtaking new information," he said, arguing that not much is surprising to U.S. voters given the former president has been "at the center of American politics for nine years."

"For the people who support him, this is evidence that the deep state really is out to get him, for the people who hate him, this is confirmation of their previous belief that he's a criminal, and for people in-between, they're still going to be in between," he continued. "Of all the things that we've learned about Donald Trump for the last 10 years, why would this be the thing that kicks them over from indifference to either support or opposition?"

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

In addition to the apparent lack of shock value among the electorate, American's haven't really been paying attention to Trump's prosecution or conviction, Reilly posited  a claim supported by the 55 percent of Americans who reported as much in an early May PBS NewsHour/NPR/Marist poll.

A better litmus test to gauge voter attitudes toward the conviction would come after Trump's sentencing, Lieberman said, both because it offers voters more information about the former president's legal status and is just slightly closer to the election.

Reilly added he suspects the percentage of seemingly indifferent voters will decrease as more information becomes available and more Americans engage with it.

Even then, the small shifts in voter support seen in current polls, especially among independents, could still signal a massive impact in November that determines the next U.S. president. While 21 percent of independents pulling support from Trump doesn't read as a large portion of the electorate, in a race poised to be as close in margin as the 2020 and 2016 elections, that portion of voters in key districts and swing states could be all that's needed to decide the election for either main-party candidate, Lieberman explained.

"It's going to be decided by a very small number of votes in a few states that are very close," he predicted. "It doesn't take a big swing of a large number of voters to change the outcome in a state like Pennsylvania, Nevada, Arizona."

What impact the conviction will have on voters' opinions and November decisions at the ballot box will ultimately come down to the Biden and Trump campaigns' strategies, Lieberman said.

Biden rolled out a $50 million ad campaign on Monday blasting Trump as a "convicted criminal" while also referencing his civil liability for sexual abuse and defamation, a move that Lieberman said indicates Biden's campaign has some reason to believe some voters will be swayed by "being reminded of that."

"A lot of how this plays will be defined by the campaigns. How much is Biden going to talk about it? That's what people will see," he said. "How much are these ads that he started to run going to take off? Is that one of the things that the Biden campaign is going to want people to remember about Donald Trump when they cast their vote? Or are they going to focus on something else?

"And does Trump want to keep talking about it as part of his list of grievances, or is he going to focus his attention on other grievances?" Lieberman continued, adding: "Which grievances will he and his campaign find most useful to motivate people?"
DENVER (KDVR)  A dog running loose on Interstate 70 near E-470 Tuesday morning was safely rescued thanks to the efforts of drivers, according to the Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office.

The dog was first seen running in the eastbound lanes of the interstate around 10 a.m. Several callers reported to dispatchers that the dog was running in traffic.

Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office shared these images of a dog that was found loose on I-70.

Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office shared these images of a dog that was found loose on I-70.

Arapahoe County Sheriffs Office shared these images of a dog that was found loose on I-70.

The sheriffs office said cars were going around 75 mph while the dog was running in one of the lanes of traffic.

Big Boy, the 1.1 million pound train, passing through Colorado this fall

Drivers slammed on their brakes to avoid the dog and some even stopped on the highway to get out and catch the dog. This ended up causing I-70 traffic to back up for around a quarter of a mile to East Colfax Avenue for around 30 minutes while people tried to rescue the dog.

Eventually, a good Samaritan managed to corner the dog and put him on a leash. The dog was then turned over to a deputy with the sheriffs office and, eventually, animal services.

The dog did not have a collar or an ID, and it was unclear if it had a microchip.

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.
Last semester, Vanessa Pohley, a student at Sacramento State, had a class that ended at 9 p.m. From the classroom, it was a 15 minute walk to her car. She runs through all the precautions she must take to the parking garage safely in the pitch black of night.

Always walk to your car in a group. Carry pepper spray. Have your keys out. Dont fumble through your bag while looking for them, that will let your guard down. Never wear headphones. Always be aware of your surroundings.

Once she got to her car, a feeling of relief rushes over her. All of her anxiety has disappeared.

Week after week, shed follow the exact routine with the same feeling of fear.

Everything Ive done in the past is because of me. Nothing was implemented by Sac State, Pohley said.

Feeling unsafe on a dark college campus isnt uncommon for female students, said Pohley. However, Sacramento State, with enrolls more than 30,000 students, reports assaults have caused fear since an uptick last year.

There were numerous assaults at Sacramento State from 2022 to this current academic year. In October 2022, a female student was assaulted nearby the library quad. The suspect was arrested off campus, but was released and barred from campus. Campus police said he was issued with a misdemeanor and citation for battery, according to the State Hornet, the universitys student-run news publication.

Later that month, a student was assaulted in a campus computer lab. University police sent a timely warning notice, to students at midnight the day after the incident was reported. A timely warning notice is Sacramento States alert system which adheres to the Clery Act, a federal law that requires institutions alert students of a crime in a timely manner to prevent similar incidents.

There would be more incidents across that academic year, from a man filming a female student in a campus bathroom to assaults within student housing.

The most significant was the case of Nida Muhammad Niazy, who was the main suspect in two sexual assaults that occurred on and off campus last year.

Niazy assaulted two students in 2022. He was sentenced to two years in prison after agreeing to a no-contest plea for assault. Niazys sexual assault charges and count of rape were dismissed during a plea agreement with prosecutors.

During a student-led town hall in 2022, many students expressed their frustrations and concerns with safety on campus.

It is really starting to feel like no one is safe here, student Kaitlyn Fernandes told the State Hornet last year. My question to (administration) is: What is going to be next to stop it?

Assaults continued last semester

In May, a sexual battery was reported nearby Sacramento States entrance. Christina Lofthouse, deputy chief of Sacramento State Police did not provide an update to this case. Other incidents were reported in student housing facilities. Lofthouse said she could not comment on these specific cases.

In response to an increase of sexual assaults reported at Sacramento State, the university created its sexual violence prevention, safety, and support action plan. The plan had a variety of preventative measures assigned to different groups at the school.

Sacramento State has primary police jurisdiction to the campus itself and other properties owned by the California State University trustees. Lofthouse said the department does not patrol areas outside of their jurisdiction. However, they do have agreements with outside agencies that assist them in responding to incidents further away from the main campus.

We are committed to preventing all forms of sexual violence, and to believing and supporting those who have experienced it, wrote former university President Robert Nelsen in a campus wide email introducing the plan last year.

But after a year of sexual violence prevention initiatives, crime on campus hasnt changed. The number of crimes classified as assaults and sexual assaults has remained the same, with 18 combined assaults and rapes both academic years. Lofthouse said there hasnt been a big change in crime in the past year.

She said campus police are seeing more students reporting sexual assaults. Crimes range from outside people coming on to campus and internal, Lofthouse said.

Even with their numbers, Lofthouse said the police department does not have a realistic view of all incidents. Some go unreported or are reported elsewhere.

People are reporting more in terms of sexual assaults, which is a good thing, Lofthouse said. But then at the same time, the numbers go up and thats concerning.

To students like Pohley, theres been no progress. She is just as fearful on campus as she was a year ago.

I dont feel any safer than I did a year ago, Pohley said. They send out a lot of emails about things that are implemented, but it doesnt really feel like theres a presence on campus.

What has Sacramento State done?

The plan has several initiatives rooted in trauma-informed approaches. One being Sacramento State partnering with WEAVE, a nonprofit specialized in providing services to survivors of sexual abuse and domestic violence.

The campus currently has two confidential advocates located within student housing. These advocates provide students with trauma informed care and are another outlet to report assaults, said Lara Falkenstein, the universitys associate director of health and wellness. WEAVE will provide training on sexual violence prevention through student housing and the universitys sexual violence action team, Falkenstein said.

Were trying to make sure students know what their opportunities are for reporting and how to report their information, Falkenstein said.

Sacramento State Police Department also provides a personal safety course, as recommended by the plan. The department will present the course, when requested. Lofthouse said the course is offered to groups like housing, student groups and faculty.

She said the course has been given to housing, but has not been given to student groups or faculty.

In response to the increase of sexual assaults reported, Lofthouse said Sacramento State has done additionally training with officers. Through partnership with the District Attorneys office, Lofthouse said their department gets extra training when responding to sexual assault cases.

Lofthouse said Sacramento State Police Department has tried to increase its visibility. She said the department has done things like Q&As and was involved in the universitys sexual assault awareness month events.

(Were) trying to be more active in the community. Being there as a resource and letting people know that were here, Lofthouse said. Youd be shocked how many people dont even realize theres a police department.

The plan recommended Sacramento State increased the number of community safety officers, (who are student officers) visible on campus at night and on the weekends. These officers will also provide an escort service, where they will escort students to their cars or to student housing on campus.

Lofthouse did not clarify how many CSOs Sacramento State has, and said the number of those on duty depends on the time.

The important fact is that weve always got somebody available to do a safety escort, Lofthouse said.

Even though Sacramento State has said theyve instilled preventive measures, students like Pohley dont see the outcome or know of these services existence. She doesnt feel like Sacramento State is transparent about whats going on campus. And if she does learn, its not timely.

I feel like a lot of the communication is after the fact, Pohley said. I think that its important, if theres something that happens, its timely communication.

And in regards to campus safety, Pohley said anxiety with campus safety is a statewide issue. But at Sacramento State, Pohley said she wants to see a stronger safety presence nearby parking lots and garages, where its often not well-lit, she said.

As far as women and night class safety in general, I dont feel like there is an emphasis on safety, Pohley said. ...College campuses at night dont feel safe already. And it doesnt feel like theres a lot of preventative action.
Former President Donald Trump exits from the courtroom after hearing the verdict in his criminal trial at Manhattan Criminal Court in New York on May 30. Jurors found the former president guilty on 34 felony charges of falsifying business records in connection with payments made to an adult film actress in 2016. File Pool Photo by Steven Hirsch/UPI

June 19 (UPI) -- Former President Donald Trump has faced many legal problems since leaving the White House, including 34 felony convictions, a $355 million business fraud penalty and being found liable of rape. Legal troubles have followed at least 10 of his associates as well.

Campaign staffers, high-profile advisers, attorneys and business associates of the former president are among those in Trump's orbit who have been charged, convicted or imprisoned.

These are the legal woes of current and former associates of Trump:

Steve Bannon, former adviser to Donald Trump, speaks to the media as he departs U.S. Federal Court after being found guilty of contempt of court on day three of his Contempt of Congress trial in Washington, D.C., on July 22, 2022. File Photo by Jemal Countess/UPI

Steve Bannon

Trump's former White House adviser has been ordered to report to prison by July 1. He was convicted of contempt of congress in 2022 after ignoring a subpoena to testify before the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Bannon filed a motion to the U.S. Court of Appeals last week, seeking to remain out of prison while he appeals his conviction. He faces a four-month sentence.

U.S. District Court Judge Carl Nichols ordered Bannon to report to prison with nearly two years passed since his conviction. Nichols, a Trump appointee, ruled that Bannon's conviction is unlikely to be overturned and the original reason for his stay of sentence no longer applies.

Mark Meadows is pictured in this photo provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office on Aug. 23, 2023, in Atlanta, Ga. Meadows has been charged in Georgia for alleged attempts to overturn the results of the state's 2020 presidential election. File Photo via Fulton County Sheriff's Office/UPI

Mark Meadows

Former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows is set to go to trial in October over his alleged role in a fake elector scheme in Arizona, a charge that he and former attorney Rudy Giuliani have pleaded not guilty to.

Meadows and former Trump campaign staffer Michael Roman were arraigned earlier this month on charges related to attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election in Arizona. They face felony charges including conspiracy, forgery and fraud.

Meadows, Roman and Giuliani are also among Trump's 18 co-defendants charged in a conspiracy to subvert the results of the 2020 election in Georgia.

Attorney and former Mayor of New York City Rudy Giuliani is pictured in this photo provided by the Fulton County Sheriff's Office on Aug. 23, 2023, in Atlanta, Ga. Giuliani has been charged in Georgia for alleged attempts to overturn the results of the state's 2020 presidential election and has now turned himself in as part of the conspiracy prosecution. File Photo via Fulton County Sheriff's Office/UPI

Rudy Giuliani

Along with the charges Giuliani faces in Georgia and Arizona, he was also found liable of defamation for spreading falsehoods about two Georgia election workers. Ruby Freeman and Wandrea' ArShaye Moss successfully sued the former mayor of New York for $148 million.

Days after winning the lawsuit, Freeman and Moss filed another lawsuit against Giuliani. He allegedly continued to make the same false statements about the pair that led to the first lawsuit.

"Of course I don't regret it," Giuliani said after being found liable in the first case. "I told the truth."

Giuliani was also sued by Dominion Voting Systems for spreading false claims about its voting machines following the 2020 election. Dominion seeks $1.3 billion in the lawsuit.

Trump's former attorney Sidney Powell was included in the lawsuit as well. She is among Trump and Giuliani's co-defendants in the Georgia election case.

Roger Stone, a former campaign adviser to President Donald Trump, arrives for his sentencing hearing in his trial for lying to Congress and witness tampering, at the E. Barrett Prettyman Courthouse in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 20, 2020. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

Roger Stone

Roger Stone, a Republican political strategist and former campaign adviser to Trump, was sentenced to 40 months in prison and two years of probation in 2020. He was convicted on seven criminal counts for lying to Congress during the House investigation into Russian election interference.

Trump, then president, commuted Stone's sentence.

Peter Navarro, an adviser to former president Donald Trump, speaks to the press as he is surrounded by demonstrators after being found guilty of contempt of Congress at the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 7, 2023. Navarro was found guilty for failing to comply with a congressional subpoena connected with Jan. 6, 2021. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Peter Navarro

Former Trump administration adviser Peter Navarro began serving his four-month prison sentence in Miami last month after being convicted of contempt of Congress.

Navarro was charged with contempt after refusing to comply with a congressional subpoena in the House select committee investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. He argued that as an official in the Trump administration he believed executive privilege protected him from disclosing information to investigators.

Navarro was the first Trump administration official to begin serving a prison sentence.

Former Gen. Michael Flynn leaves a pro-Trump rally near the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 12, 2020. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

Michael Flynn

Trump's former national security adviser Michael Flynn pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI in 2017. He was charged with making false statements during FBI director Robert Mueller's investigation into election interference by Russia.

Flynn later withdrew the guilty plea.

Flynn acknowledged his wrongdoing in a statement released by his lawyer. He also vowed to cooperate with the investigation. He served as Trump's national security adviser for 24 days before being fired for lying to Vice President Mike Pence about a conversation with former Russian ambassador Sergey Kislyak.

In 2020, Pence told reporters that he believed Flynn may have lied unintentionally.

Trump pardoned Flynn in 2020 after losing the presidential election.

Former President Donald Trump's former campaign manager Paul Manafort arrives at federal court in Washington D.C., on June 15, 2018. File Photo Ken Cedeno/UPI

Paul Manafort

Paul Manafort, former chairman of Trump's presidential campaign, was found guilty on eight of 18 counts of bank fraud in 2018. Manafort was charged for hiding millions of dollars in bank accounts overseas to avoid taxes.

In 2019, Manafort was sentenced to four years in prison. He expressed embarrassment over the case but did not offer an apology for the crimes he was charged with.

Manafort was later sentenced to 47 months in prison for fraud in a separate case in Virginia. He was also ordered to pay $24.8 million in restitution.

A 2020 report from the Senate Intelligence Committee alleged that Manafort worked with Russian agents during Trump's 2016 campaign. No charges were filed over these accusations.

Allen Weisselberg, former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization, arrives with his legal team before a hearing at Manhattan State Supreme Court on Aug.18, 2022 in New York City. File Pool Photo by Curtis Means/UPI

Allen Weisselberg

Allen Weisselberg, former chief financial officer of the Trump Organization, pleaded guilty to perjury in March. He was sentenced to five months in prison.

Weisselberg's business license was canceled by Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron at the conclusion of the civil fraud case against the Trump Organization in New York.

In 2023, Weisselberg served 99 days of a 100-day sentence in Rikers Island in New York for fraud related to his actions with the Trump Organization. He was found guilty of tax fraud, falsifying business records and conspiracy.

Michael Cohen, former attorney for Donald Trump leaves his home before testifying in Manhattan criminal court in former president Donald Trump's hush money trial in New York on May 13. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI

Michael Cohen

Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen was released from prison in 2020 after pleading guilty to arranging hush-money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels and former Playboy model Karen McDougal to hide their affairs with Trump. He was sentenced to three years in prison but was released into home confinement early.

Cohen was a star witness for the prosecution in the trial of Trump over allegedly falsifying business records to hide the affairs. Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts. Cohen has also become a vocal critic of Trump, acknowledging his falling out with the former president.

George Papadopoulos, former campaign adviser to former President Donald Trump, departs after his sentencing at the U.S. District Court House in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 7, 2018. File Photo by Ken Cedeno/UPI

George Papadopoulos

George Papadopoulos, a former campaign adviser to Trump, served 12 days of a 14-day jail sentence for lying to the FBI during the Mueller investigation.

Trump pardoned Papadopoulos along with 19 others on Dec. 22, 2020.
Donation sites and resources available in the wake of the Rochester Hills splash pad shooting

An Oakland County Sheriff's vehicle blocks the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad in Rochester Hills after police say up to 10 people were injured in a shooting on June 15, 2024 | Anna Liz Nichols

After the mass shooting at the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad in Rochester Hills over Fathers Day weekend, the community is offering resources to those injured and anyone who is grappling with the pain of another mass shooting in Oakland County.

Around 5 p.m. Saturday, a gunman open fired on the crowded splash pad, injuring nine people, including two children, ages 4 and 8. At least two individuals have been released from the hospital as of Monday.

The gunman was found dead in a home later that day a half mile from the splash pad, law enforcement says, from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

And as the community tries to make sense of what law enforcement is calling a random act of violence from a man with no connection to the victims or splash pad, with no known motive, community leaders are urging residents to seek out mental health help if they need it.

The shooting will not define the city. How the community responds will define Rochester Hills, city Mayor Brian Barnett said in a message to the city Monday, announcing an online donation fund for the communitys healing.

Residents near the area ran towards the sound of danger, assisting some of the people most in need. In the next few minutes, over 100 Sheriffs Department deputies and Rochester Hills firefighters descended on the scene, supported by four departments surrounding us, to begin to offer medical care, and, of course, to begin to process this very chaotic scene, Barnett said.

Other donation pages have been set up by loved ones for specific victims.

The two children who were shot are brothers and their mother was injured, as well. They boys aunt set up a GoFundMe page to support their family through their healing.

As of Monday the 4-year-old boy, who had suffered a wound to the thigh, was in stable condition, but his 8-year-old brother, who was wounded in the head, and his mom, who was wounded in the abdomen and leg, were in critical condition.

Another GoFundMe has been set up for Micayla and Eric Coughlin who were injured in the shooting. The GoFundMe page said the two sustained their injuries protecting their daughters, ages 2 and 7 months after their family arrived at the splash pad seconds before the shooting after getting ice cream nearby.

The Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) has opened a Family Assistance Center at the Rochester Hills Department of Public Services with counselors available to anyone impacted by the shooting from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, with no appointment necessary.

The post Donation sites and resources available in the wake of the Rochester Hills splash pad shooting appeared first on Michigan Advance.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A shootout Tuesday evening outside a Raleigh restaurant sent two people to the hospital, and the gunmen are still loose.

Police responded around 6:30 p.m. to 3850 Austin Peay Highway. Windows were seen damaged and crime scene tape surrounded Margaritas Mexican restaurant, where police were seen inside.

Woman accused in deadly Memphis wreck arrested in Colorado

According to police, an employee at American Deli, which is nearby in the same shopping center, said a man doing DoorDash came inside to pick up food, and when he walked out to his red van, he saw someone trying to pull something out of their pants.

The employee said that is when the shooting started, but the DoorDasher did not shoot first.

Once Memphis Police got to the scene, they found a man inside a restroom at Margaritas who had been shot in his left leg at least three times.

He told officers that two men started shooting at him for no reason.

He claimed he shot back but did not know how many times. He was taken to Regional One in critical condition but was later upgraded to noncritical.

Outside of the restaurant was a black Dodge Charger riddled with bullet holes. It had been parked beside the red van that the DoorDash worker was getting into.

A passenger in the Charger said the man who had been inside the bathroom initiated the shooting. The witness said he was getting food when he saw the man fire shots at the DoorDash worker driving the red van.

Woman allegedly stabs boyfriend who stayed out too long

Additionally, one woman was lying on the floor, injured by glass after the shooting. She was taken to Methodist North in noncritical condition.

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Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivers a speech at the groundbreaking ceremony for the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) Gombak Integrated Terminal Station in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, June 19, 2024. Li attended the groundbreaking ceremony for ECRL Gombak Integrated Terminal Station with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Both leaders delivered a speech at the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Wednesday that China is ready to work hand in hand with Malaysia to make the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) a path to prosperity and happiness that truly delivers for the people.

He made the remarks when attending the groundbreaking ceremony for ECRL Gombak Integrated Terminal Station with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Both leaders delivered a speech at the event.

At first, Li expressed appreciation to the hard-working builders from both sides.

Noting that the ECRL is a flagship project of China-Malaysia high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, Li expressed his belief that with the joint efforts of both sides, the construction of the project will be high-quality, efficient, safe, and reliable, making the railway a model of excellence, and a fine example of Belt and Road cooperation.

Li said the ECRL will not only serve as a transportation artery in Malaysia, but also play an important role in promoting development, creating employment and improving people's livelihood.

China will make active efforts with Malaysia to explore ways to connect the ECRL with the China-Laos and China-Thailand railways to better advance the construction of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, thereby enhancing regional connectivity and deepening the development of the ASEAN Community, Li said.

For his part, Anwar said that the ECRL project, which connects the east and west coasts of Malaysia, is of great significance to promoting Malaysia's economic and social development.

He thanked Chinese and Malaysian companies for their cooperation in advancing this important project, and voiced confidence that with the joint efforts of both sides and on the strength of "China speed" and advanced technology, the ECRL will be completed as soon as possible, injecting strong impetus into the development of Malaysia and regional countries.

The two leaders jointly pushed the lever to officially kick off the construction of the Gombak station.

The Malaysia ECRL stretches 665 km, starting from Kota Bharu in the north, and heading south to Kuantan before turning westward to Port Klang. It is the largest standalone transportation infrastructure project undertaken by Chinese enterprises overseas. 

Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim jointly push the lever to officially kick off the construction of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) Gombak Integrated Terminal Station in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, June 19, 2024. Li attended the groundbreaking ceremony for ECRL Gombak Integrated Terminal Station with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Both leaders delivered a speech at the event. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)
Dozens die in extreme Hajj heat, but fears toll could be in hundreds

Muslim pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine, at the Grand mosque in the holy city of Mecca, during the Hajj pilgrimage. Muslims from all over the world gather in Mecca for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam that must be carried out by all adult Muslims at least once in their lifetime. It takes place in the last month of the Islamic calendar. -/Saudi Press Agency/dpa

Dozens of Muslims have died during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia this year due to heat-related medical issues amid scorching temperatures, according to figures released by several countries.

Tunisia's state news agency TAP reported on Wednesday that at least 35 Tunisian pilgrims had died, while Iran's semi-official Tasnim agency said 11 Iranian citizens were also among the dead. Senegal confirmed three of its citizens had died.

Jordan's Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that 41 Jordanian pilgrims had lost their lives, meaning the total death toll stands at least at 90.

There are fears the number is far higher. Unconfirmed reports circulating on Wednesday said that hundreds of Egyptians had died. But neither Egyptian officials nor Egypt's state media have commented.

Saudi Arabia has also not given a figure.

Muslims from around the world started the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia on Friday. Saudi Arabia expected around 2 million people.

The temperature in Mecca and other holy sites in the surrounding area hovered around 50 degrees Celsius through Tuesday's final pilgrimage day.

Authorities called on participants to carry parasols, avoid being outside during the particularly hot midday hours and drink plenty of water.

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a mandatory duty for all Muslims to make once in a lifetime - if they are physically capable of undertaking the journey to the birthplace of the prophet Mohammed and have the financial resources.

Men wear seamless white clothes and women wear loose garments as they perform the same rituals in a demonstration of religious unity, equality and pursuit of spiritual renewal.
Dozens of Russian soldiers, not hundreds, are cut off in Vovchansk

The Russian offensive in Kharkiv Oblast: The areas marked in red are under Russian control, those in green are controlled by Ukrainian forces. Photo: DeepStateMap

Dozens of Russian troops have been cut off at a building site in the city of Vovchansk, Kharkiv Oblast, not hundreds as previously reported by Forbes, Yurii Povkh, spokesman for the Kharkiv Operational Strategic Group (OSG), has said.

Source: Povkh in a comment to Ukrainska Pravda

Quote: "I would like to point out that, first of all, the Russians do not operate with the numbers of personnel mentioned in this report. The figure of 400 people [reported by Forbes] is impossible to confirm because it does not exist."

Details: Povkh further noted that the Kharkiv OSG takes a responsible approach to commenting on the situation at the front, refraining from making real-time or short-term comments, as the lives of Ukrainian soldiers depend on it.

"Regarding the blocking of a particular Russian unit at a building site in the city of Vovchansk, this is a fact. However, there are not hundreds, but dozens of invaders who are currently cut off in a specific area of the city," Povkh said.

Background:

Earlier, Forbes reported that Russian soldiers were surrounded at a Vovchansk chemical plant due to heavy bombardment by Ukrainian glide bombs.

Forbes said 30 of the Russians had recently been captured by Ukrainian forces, and about 400 more had nowhere to run and nowhere to hide.

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Dr. Anthony Fauci has recalled how Donald Trump reacted to being corrected during a televised press briefing during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic in March 2020.

Fauci said he fully expected to be chewed out by the then-president after he publicly rejected Trumps claim earlier in the briefing that the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine could vanquish COVID-19.

But after the briefing had finished, the now-presumptive GOP presidential nominee just focused on and boasted to Fauci about the amazing ratings the briefings were garnering, Fauci told CNNs chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta in an interview that aired Tuesday.

My God, these ratings are amazing. Theyre better than cable, theyre better than network, Trump said, per Fauci, who has also detailed the exchange in his new memoir, On Call: A Doctors Journey in Public Service.

Its no secret that Trump was very, very fixated on image and ratings, and he thought that the amount of attention that was given to the press briefings was really terrific, and his comment was, Wow, did you see those ratings? said Fauci. My feeling was, Ratings? Were in the middle of a pandemic.

Watch the interview here:

Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease who served as chief medical adviser to the Biden White House until he retired in 2022, told Gupta why he had to correct Trumps claim.

I said to myself, I have a responsibility to preserve my own personal integrity and a responsibility to the American public, he explained. So, when I walked up to the podium, I said, Here he goes.

That was painful to me to have to do that, but there was no doubt that I had to do it, he added. It wasnt like, Well, maybe you should, maybe you shouldnt. There was no doubt that I had to do it.

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Dr. Fauci says he still fears someone may kill him

(The Hill)  Former chief White House medical adviser Anthony Fauci says that he still fears someone may murder him one day.

I still think, deep down, that theres a possibility that somebodys gonna kill me, Fauci said in an interview with USA Today released Wednesday. So, thats a possibility I wish I didnt have to think about, but its true.

Fauci noted that he has become the target of people with extremist views.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, testifies during a House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus pandemic at Capitol Hill, Monday, June 3, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib)

The former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has regularly been targeted by conservatives over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and in 2022, a man from West Virginia was sentenced to a little over three years in prison following threats to him and others.

One of the several unfortunate aspects of the outbreak was that it occurred at a time of profound divisiveness in our society, Fauci told USA Today.

And there was an inordinate amount of nonproductive Gotcha, he continued. This side is out against this side.

In another recent interview on CBS with by Stephen Colbert, Fauci was asked by the comedian about how he would diagnose America as a patient right now. Fauci said that Colbert would need a surgeon rather than a doctor of internal medicine, to which the host replied asking him what he would say if he were a psychologist.

There is a degree of schizophrenia in the country, Fauci said. Its just, it really is, I mean, how far apart people can be that they seem to forget how much alike we are, but were acting like were so, so different.

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DRIPPING SPRINGS, Texas (KXAN)  Dripping Springs ISD hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for a new elementary school that will support the growing city and surrounding area.

Over the last five years, the city of Dripping Springs population has more than quadrupled. Additionally, the surrounding areas have seen an influx of new residents, according to the Census.

Dripping Springs is a fast-growth district, said Holly Morris-Kuentz, the Dripping Springs ISD superintendent. We currently have 8,500 students, and we are looking to grow in the next 10 years to be about 15,000 students in our area.

The new school, now called Elementary No. 6, is being built in the Headwater neighborhood. It will accommodate 850 students and should be open in time for the 2025-26 school year.

This new school was made possible because Dripping Springs ISD voters approved a $223.7 million bond referendum in May 2023. The money will help support the districts growth, renovate some of DSISDs oldest campuses, and allow for other capital improvements.

Theres a lot of people moving in, and we want to make sure that across all of our schools, our campuses are well aligned, and both our academics but also in our learning environments, Morris-Kuentz said.

Other bond projects include:

Expanding Sycamore Springs Middle School

Designing high school

Build new facility for special education 18 program

Security updates for all campuses

Classroom portables

Its been critical for us to give students what they need and to expand our campus size to support our community, Morris-Kuentz continued.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
DENVER (KDVR)  The semitruck driver who faced vehicular homicide and assault charges in a deadly crash on U.S. 285 near Conifer will now face lesser charges of careless driving.

Ignacio Cruz-Mendoza, 47, had a court hearing on Tuesday, where formal charges were filed. They include one count of careless driving resulting in death and three counts of careless driving resulting in injury, court records show. All of the charges are misdemeanors.

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Colorado State Patrol has said Cruz-Mendoza was traveling southbound on U.S. 285 around rush hour last Tuesday when he side-swiped five vehicles as he tried to pass them. The semi ended up jack-knifed across the highway and spilled its load of pipe and angle iron, closing the highway for more than 14 hours.

Scott Miller, 64, died in the crash. His family was upset to learn that the driver would not face the severe charges upon which he was arrested.

I just wanted to have the driver to have accountability for his actions, Millers daughter, Michelle Tusa, said. He took my fathers life and he seriously injured someone else. And I want him to face what he did.

Millers family said he was a truck driver too and always saw safety as a top priority. They said they also want changes in the trucking industry to ensure safer highways for everyone, like mountain-driving endorsements on commercial drivers licenses and inspection points on U.S. 285.

Scott Miller and a child in a vehicle

Driver in US 285 crash has faced legal trouble before

Cruz-Mendoza was arrested Thursday on felony counts of vehicular homicide and vehicular assault in the crash, along with reckless driving and driving without a commercial drivers license.

An arrest affidavit shows Cruz-Mendoza allegedly told troopers his brakes went out, but investigators measuring skids on the pavement found the trucks brakes were working  although well below the minimum requirements.

Investigators report the truck had not been inspected since 2020. Colorado State Patrol also learned that Cruz-Mendoza was convicted of speeding and operating without lawfully required equipment in 2022.

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Cruz-Mendoza had also been ordered to return to Mexico 16 times since 2002, according to Immigration and Customs and Enforcement. ICE has placed a detainer on him, which means if he is released from the Jefferson County jail, federal agents will seek to take him into custody.

Cruz-Mendoza is represented by a public defender, whose office does not comment on its cases. He is set for arraignment on July 31.

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PALMER TOWNSHIP, Pa. (WHTM)  A driver and pedestrian were taken to area hospitals after an accident at a Northampton grocery store parking lot.

Palmer Township Police say on Monday at 11:16 a.m. first responders were dispatched to the GIANT grocery store on S. 25th Street for an accident.

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Police say a female driver accelerated through the grocery store parking lot, struck an 18-year-old pedestrian, and then struck a pillar located at the front of the store.

The pedestrian was taken to an area hospital with moderate injuries. The driver was entrapped and extricated by Palmer Fire before being taken to the hospital with moderate to severe injuries.

Police say the cause of the crash was either mechanical or driver error, as the driver was not impaired or distracted.

Officials later checked the structural integrity of the grocery store and deemed it to have no structural damage.

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The chemical plume from the February 2023 train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, spread air pollutants to at least 16 states, according to research published Wednesday in the journal Environmental Research Letters.

The cloud, created as part of a controlled burn of the spilled chemicals, reached as far north as New England and possibly as far south as North Carolina, according to researchers from the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. They found the overall radius spanned more than 540,000 square miles.

No one was injured or killed in the crash, which spilled toxic chemicals including vinyl chloride, but local residents complained of rashes and the deaths of animals, and have expressed concerns about potential long-term health impacts that may not have been evident in the immediate aftermath.

Researchers analyzed ground samples from between Jan. 31 and Feb. 14 of last year, a period spanning the time before and immediately after the Feb. 3 accident. They found evidence of high chloride concentration in states including Virginia, South Carolina and Wisconsin, as well as particularly high concentrations near Canadas border with New York, an area downwind of the crash site. Although the pollutants dissipated in the weeks after the accident, they also found that the precipitation in the affected areas was less acidic than expected.

Precipitation in the Northeast is typically between 5.2 and 5.8 on the pH scale, which indicates more acidity, the lower the score; it was lower than that at the time of year the accident occurred. However, the researchers found unprecedentedly high, or more basic, pH values across a broad belt in the Midwest and Northeast. They also found levels of elevated alkaline and earth metals, in some cases within the 99th percentile of measurements for the last decade.

All of these pollutants are important in the environment because their accumulation has an impact on the Earths aquatic and terrestrial environments in many ways, lead author David Gay, lead researcher and coordinator of the National Atmospheric Deposition Program, said in a statement.

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UPSHUR COUNTY, Texas (KETK)  An Upshur County man was sentenced to life in prison for aggravated sexual assault of a 10-year-old and 13-year-old in Pritchett.

OFFICIALS: 65-year-old man attempts to steal 21 guns from a Lake Cherokee house

According to a release, the trial began on Tuesday where the jury learned that one of the children was adopted by new parents after being removed from her biological parents house due to neglect and drug use. Two years later, her grandfather began sexually abusing her by first showing her pornography and then acting those things out, the Upshur County Criminal District Attorneys Office said.

Mugshot of Allen Ray Reppond, courtesy of Upshur County District Attorneys office

In November 2023 the childs mother, concerned by things she heard from her father, questioned the victim who confirmed the abuse. The criminal district attorneys office said when Allen Ray Reppond was arrested, a 13-year-old neighbor was asked if he had ever touched her inappropriately and the girl allegedly confided in her mother.

Man imprisoned for organized crime using fake credit cards to buy diesel across Texas

The jury reportedly took less than 20 minutes to assess the maximum punishment for one life sentence and two 20-year sentences for indecency with a child.

The district attorneys office thanked the jury for delivering the maximum sentence.

Their verdict reassures the most innocent among us will be protected and those that sexually abuse children punished, the criminal district attorneys office said.

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Ryanair and easyJet have lashed out at a decision by the EU to exclude long-haul flights from its crackdown on jet emissions.

The budget airlines have said the move, announced on Wednesday, will make a mockery of Europes efforts to combat climate change.

It comes after Brussels bowed to pressure from long-haul airlines and dropped plans to include all flights from its study into the effects of non-CO2 emissions.

This means the inquiry will be limited to flights operating solely within the bloc, crucially excluding long-haul carriers such as Lufthansa, which runs flights from Europe to destinations further afield.

The focus of the inquiry will be on the by-products of burning jet fuel, such as soot.

These have been blamed for the formation of contrails that some studies suggest may contribute more to global warming than carbon dioxide itself.

Ryanair and easyJet, the regions two largest low-cost airlines  together with Hungarys Wizz Air  said the EUs decision will exclude 75pc of European emissions that come from long-distance flights.

The EU crackdown will pave the way for financial penalties, which will weigh far less on carriers that derive most of their earnings from lucrative long-haul journeys.

By contrast, low-cost carriers such as Ryanair operate almost wholly within Europe and may face levies on almost all of their services.

Detrimental to climate action

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), whose membership is dominated by long-haul airlines, had lobbied the EU not to include all flights in the study.

This was on the basis that the science behind non-CO2 emissions is insufficiently advanced and that the required data gathering would be too onerous.

However, Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air urged the EU to revert to its original plan by scrutinising long-haul routes.

The three airlines said: The bottom line is that we absolutely cannot end up with a blank dataset for an entire portion of European aviation. This would be detrimental to climate action.

They said the plan would enter consultation over the next month, and added that they are still hopeful its scope could be expanded.

The EU climbdown is problematic because it will exclude hundreds of thousands of flights a year across the North Atlantic, where the prevailing weather conditions are ideal for contrail formation, the three companies said.

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By News Centre

Some 9,000 troops from 20 NATO countries have been participating this month in military exercises in the Baltic Sea region, which has become strategically sensitive following Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Sweden, which had joined the drills in the past, took part in the Baltops exercises for the first time in June as a full NATO member after joining the trans-Atlantic military alliance earlier this year. The weeks of training include sea mine sweeps, submarine detection, landings, and medical response to mass casualty situations.

Their goal is to enhance the interoperability of the forces and to highlight the allied commitment to joint security, officials said.

The exercises by navy, air force, and ground troops are being held on the Baltic Sea, as well as in Sweden and its strategic island of Gotland, and in Lithuania, Poland, and Germany. They will run through Thursday and include some 50 navy ships and 45 aircraft and helicopters.

The drills are organized by NATOs Naval Striking and Support Forces and the U.S. Navys 6th Fleet.

Major gas pipelines run across the Baltic seabed from Russia and Norway to Germany, Poland, and other European nations, making it a highly sensitive region since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 and increased its hostile activity in the Baltic Sea area.

The dynamic challenges of the Baltic Region demand a refined, precise, and efficient amphibious capability; and that is exactly what we conducted in Sweden today. The landing location was intentional: NATOs presence on Gotland Island is vital to protecting the security and stability of the Baltic Sea, said U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Andrew T. Priddy, NATOs Naval Striking and Support Forces chief of staff.
788 ancient artifacts from 7 Egyptian museums met the public starting Wednesday at the Shanghai Museum. The "Summit of the Pyramid: Ancient Egyptian Civilization" exhibition, running from July 19 to August 17, 2025, is the largest of its kind outside Egypt. #GLOBALink








This month, the Los Angeles City Council signed off on a plan to ask voters to approve changes to the discipline system for police officers accused of misconduct. It is underwhelming.

There are three main parts to the plan, which is being drafted into a ballot measure slated for the Nov. 5 general election. It would permit the police chief to fire officers found to have engaged in misconduct. It would rejigger the composition of the board of rights  a three-member appeals panel that has the power to override the police chiefs discipline decisions. And it would impose binding arbitration as a final level of appeal.

There is nothing particularly wrong with any of these changes, which collectively could be a half-step forward for police accountability. But they fall far short of whats needed, and what the City Council has been promising the public for at least seven years: a sweeping reexamination and overhaul of police practices and policy, including the discipline system.

Read more: LAPD cant get rid of their bad cops. Heres what they want to do about it

Lets remember how we got here. In 2017, under the guise of toughening the police discipline system, city leaders hoodwinked voters into weakening it.

Their vehicle was a charter amendment that allowed officers to opt for a disciplinary appeals panel made up of only carefully selected civilian members, with no members from police command staff. Although oversight by members of the public sounds good, the civilians who are picked to serve on the boards tend to be too lenient with discipline, even after finding that officers committed egregious and shocking misconduct.

LAPD Chief Michel Moore, who retired in February, and Chief Dominic Choi, his interim successor, ended up being stuck with dozens of unfit or unreliable officers whom they could neither discharge nor deploy. They often are assigned desk jobs that are more suitable for less costly civilian employees.

Read more: Editorial: With Chief Moore on the way out, Mayor Bass should remake LAPD

Charter Amendment C, as it was called, was a gift to the police union, which bankrolls the reelection campaigns of many city officials.

Responding to criticism over its trickery, the council at the time promised an intensive review of every LAPD process and procedure. But it never delivered. It probably never intended to.

Now is the right time for current city leaders to deliver the promised accountability. The department is in the midst of a once-in-a-generation transformation. Mayor Karen Bass will soon select a new police chief, and other top police positions are due to be filled as well. Many officers had not yet been born when Rodney King was beaten in 1991 or Rafael Perez was arrested in 1998. A new LAPD culture is emerging, with little memory of past crises.

Read more: Editorial: The LAPD needs a better way to fire cops. So why are city leaders slow-walking reform?

The police disciplinary process should be examined in the context of other LAPD policies and standards that should be up for review. City leaders should consider whether the board of rights process has outlived its purpose, and if there are better ways to balance officer accountability and due process. They should also seek changes to state laws that require police discipline proceedings to be closed to the public. L.A. residents deserve to be better informed about the types of misconduct of which officers are accused, and the discipline they receive.

If we are going to keep boards of rights, the council should broaden the composition of the pool from which civilians are selected to ensure they are more representative of the general public  more like jurors than attorneys. It can limit the boards role to fact-finding, which would curb the boards ability to overrule the chiefs discipline decisions.

Read more: Editorial: Bass has been quietly steering needed change in LAPD leadership

The public wants police officers to do their jobs with skill and integrity, and be held accountable when they misbehave. They expect their city government to attend to the details.

But because police discipline is in the city charter, voters must approve changes, such as how many civilians should be on boards and what standards they should use when deciding whether to uphold the chief's recommended discipline. It can be a frustrating exercise, especially because charter amendments often appear to effect more change than they do.

Voters will be called on to approve these relatively minor adjustments to police discipline in November. But city leaders should think bigger.





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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
DENVER (KDVR)  Three months of meetings and planning have culminated in two opposing groups finding a compromise for the future of the building that was once El Chapultepec in Denver.

The building, located at 1962 Market Street, closed in 2020 after serving as a jazz club for nearly 90 years that hosted greats like Art Blakey, Etta James and Chet Baker. The venue also drew in legends from a variety of genres, including The Police, ZZ Top, Santana, Ed Sheeran, Frank Sinatra and even former President Bill Clinton.

Big Boy, the 1.1 million pound train, passing through Colorado this fall

Kenneth Monfort, executive vice president of Monfort Companies  which owns the building  and John Deffenbaugh, president and CEO of Historic Denver, met with FOX31 on Tuesday to discuss the buildings future.

Though the buildings integrity poses significant safety issues, and many major elements of the structure remain impossible to save, we invested significantly in developing a solution that prioritizes the preservation of the buildings distinctive architectural elements, Monfort said. It honors the building and areas legacy, tells the story of this building.

El Chapultepec building has a future

In March, Historic Denver filed for a landmark designation from Denver in an attempt to prevent the buildings owners from demolishing the crumbling structure.

On Tuesday, that landmark designation filing was withdrawn and a previous Lower Downtown Design Review Commission application was also withdrawn to show that Monfort Companies and Historic Denver are mutually moving forward on the project. A new project design that both approved was also submitted to the commission on Tuesday.

In March, Monfort Companies allowed reporters inside the building, showing the structures guts, complete with crumbling walls, floorboards coming apart and further evidence of weather and time in the building. The company initially determined that plans to save all or parts of the building were prohibitive and could be unsafe, but thats since changed.

The new plans are intended to help make the building another staple of the Ballpark neighborhood, but not necessarily for nightlife or summer-based activities. The goal is to create a year-round, national destination that is food-forward and active year-round.

Related: Owners give an inside look at crumbling El Chapultepec building

The plans will also save the infamous red door, as Monfort called it, that opens at the intersection of Market Street and 20th Avenue, in addition to some of the original brick and iconic signage on that same corner. Portions of the original materials of the north- and west-facing walls will also be preserved, in addition to a new glass structure that will echo the landmark buildings silhouette.

This rendering of 1962 Market Street and 1320 20th Street shows what Monfort Companies plan to construct at the intersection of 20th and Market.

Current plans have the glass etched with the brick pattern, giving viewers the impression that the 130-year-old brick continues along the street. During the three months of meetings to create these plans, local architects Chris Shears, of SAR+, and Richard Farley, of Richard Farley Urban Design, were invited to join the meetings in a peer review capacity alongside the project architect Peter Koliopoulos with Circle West Architects.

Monfort said the transparency of the glass wall will help illuminate the currently dark and largely windowless structure into a well-lit, pedestrian-friendly and active space, meeting a goal of improved safety and visibility for downtown visitors.

What is that new flag flying at the Colorado Capitol?

To shore up the existing brick facade, Monfort plans to install a combination of load-bearing concrete masonry and structural steel columns with lateral steel ties into the existing brick. The adjacent building at 1320 20th Street, which was once the Giggling Grizzly, will have an extended second-story balcony, creating multi-level activation and a scaled space for restaurant operators, according to Monfort.

Its a win-win, Deffenbaugh, with Historic Denver, said on Tuesday, adding that including a historical celebration of the building does not mean it cannot have revenue-generating outcomes.

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.
GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (AP)  An attempted robbery at a highway rest area in eastern Nebraska left a 72-year-old man dead and his 71-year-old wife critically injured in a knife attack Wednesday, authorities said.

The Hall County Sheriffs Office said deputies were called to an Interstate 80 rest area shortly after 7 a.m. Wednesday and found the couple both injured with knife wounds. Authorities said Gary and Mary Nelson had been traveling across Nebraska in their mobile home before the incident occurred.

Watch: Florida McDonalds employee throws drinks, shoots at customers after dispute, police say

Gary Nelson died at a Grand Island hospital. Mary Nelson was in critical condition Wednesday at the hospital with life-threatening injuries, authorities said. The Nelsons were from Eureka, Missouri.

The suspect fled the rest area in a vehicle before authorities arrived, but Grand Island Police Captain Dean Elliott told television station KSNB that officers were able to get a description.

The Nebraska State Patrol tried to stop a vehicle matching that description near Wood River and chased it at speeds of up to 120 mph before that vehicle exited the interstate and turned south. Elliott said the vehicle eventually drove into the Platte River. State troopers used a police dog to find the suspect and arrest him about 30 minutes later.

Teen accused of stabbing mom in sleep, gives odd explanation why

James Thompson Jr., 22, of Elyria, Ohio, was being held Wednesday in the Hall County Jail. He faces numerous charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, robbery and fleeing from police. Because he hasnt appeared in court yet he doesnt have a lawyer who could comment on his behalf.

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.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The Emergence Health Network (EHN) is hosting a Hiring Fair for individuals who want to make a difference in the community.

The fair will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19 at the EHNs Veterans One Stop Center, located at 10737 Gateway West Blvd., Suite 350.

According to the news release by EHN, the organization has multiple service locations and outpatient clinics throughout El Paso. Currently, EHN has over 700 employees in positions that are in direct care and support services.

Caring for our community is a big job so we are constantly expanding our workforce and our programs so whether you are qualified as a caseworker, therapist, or in IT or finance, we have a role for you. Our purpose is not only caring for our residents, but we take pride in our efforts to also care for our employees. We encourage job seekers who want to make a difference in our community to join us for the Hiring Fair. Come interview ready, complete with your resume. We will be offering interviews on the spot and in some cases offering employment opportunities as well, said Chief of Human Resources at EHN Iris Sandoval.

EHN is the local mental health and intellectual and development disabilities authority in El Paso that provides a variety of services such as substance use treatment and recovery, mental health services for children and adults, assistance to veterans, 24 hour crisis/emergency services and programs for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities, EHN said.

For more information on career opportunities and employee benefits, visit their website 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 KTSM 9 News.
Chad Cogburn, of the Nashville Zoo, holds a Nashville crayfish during an annual census of the endangered species on Wednesday, June 11, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list, but some biologists argue it still needs protection because its range is so limited. (AP photo by Kristin M. Hall)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Dale McGinnity has been turning over rocks in Mill Creek to study the endangered Nashville crayfish for a decade. He hopes to learn whether this little crustacean that makes its home mainly in the urbanized area around its namesake city is being harmed by all the development surrounding it. The results are encouraging.

Things are looking good so far, said McGinnity, who works at the Nashville Zoo as curator of ectotherms, or cold-blooded creatures. Its been a really nice, maybe steady or slightly increasing population over those 10 years.

But that good news is also potentially bad news. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed removing the Nashville crayfish from the endangered species list in 2019, and that proposal is still being considered. A healthy and robust population could add to the pressure to remove it. But some biologists argue the Nashville crayfish still needs protection because species with very small ranges are more vulnerable to extinction, for a variety of reasons.

McGinnity credits the current healthy population to recent changes to stormwater regulations. Runoff from parking lots, building and other hard surfaces now drains to bioretention areas, where it is slowly reabsorbed into the ground.

The old guidelines, it was just all a whole bunch of impervious surfaces that ran to the storm drains that went right to the creek. So that means theres huge flooding. Theres huge amounts of oil and other toxins that get into the water.

On Tuesday, McGinnity and a crew from the zoo were at Mill Creek for their annual population survey. Sycamores and maple trees shaded the shallow, rippling water filled with the flat limestone rocks that crayfish love to hide under. It did not take long before the group began spotting them.

One of the things that makes the Nashville crayfish unique, McGinnity said, is that they will hang out in open areas in broad daylight during the summer months. Most crayfish  also called crawfish or crawdads, depending on the region  are primarily active at night. The behavior seems as though it would make them vulnerable to predators, and why they do it is one of many mysteries scientists have yet to study, he said.

The Nashville crayfish are also unusually sociable, he said, noting that he has found upwards of 60 together under a single rock.

Theres still a lot to be learned about Nashville crayfish, and actually all crayfish, McGinnity said. There's no better place to study them than Tennessee, or possibly Alabama. The two states vie for title of the most crayfish diversity in the world. Both states have more than 100 species, with new ones still being discovered and described, he said.

Parker Hildreth, a biologist with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, has recently been using genetic testing to help map that diversity. Hildreth said he grew up playing with crayfish in a Tennessee creek and recently discovered that those same crayfish he played with may be an undescribed species.

Asked why the public should care about crayfish, Hildreth offered two thoughts.

Aquatic organisms are the canary in the coal mine for water quality. So if youre seeing impacts to our native species, then the same things that are affecting aquatic life can easily affect human life, he said. The second reason is cultural and goes back to his childhood.

I think thats intrinsic to most Tennesseans, that we grew up playing in a creek, he said. And I wouldn't like to live in a world where I wasnt able to do that.
UPDATE: The endangered person advisory was canceled just after 1:45 p.m. after the missing man returned home safe. Per station policy, we have removed the womans name from the story.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  The St. Louis County Police Department has issued an Endangered Person Advisory for a missing Castle Point woman.

According to police, the woman was reported missing shortly after 9:05 a.m. Wednesday in the 10700 block of Hallwood Drive.

Anyone who has seen the woman or her vehicle or has knowledge of her current whereabouts is asked to dial 911 to contact the nearest law enforcement agency or call the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210.

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.
Environmental advocates sound the alarm about devastating potential budget cuts in California: 'These are programs intended to reduce harmful pollution'

Essential climate programs may be on the chopping block in California.

What's happening?

As detailed by CalMatters, Democratic lawmakers and environmental advocates are pushing Governor Gavin Newsom to endorse a bond measure to secure funding for critical climate programs that face cuts and delays due to California's record $56 billion budget deficit.

Two years prior, Newsom and the state legislature approved a $54.3 billion spending package for the California Climate Commitment. Fast forward to now, and legislators are pushing for bonds to fund vital programs such as enhancing coastlines to curb rising sea levels and making electric vehicles more affordable for California citizens.

"These are programs intended to reduce harmful pollution," Will Barrett, a senior director with the American Lung Association, told CalMatters, referring particularly to efforts to reduce pollution from vehicles.

Why is this concerning?

Reduced funding for low-pollution programs, such as cleaner car rebates, could worsen California's already poor air quality and make it harder for residents to purchase electric vehicles.

Plus, air pollution has been linked to many health issues over the years, such as asthma, complications in children, and our mental health. And we're trending in the wrong direction.

According to research by USA Facts, despite California's average air quality index improving by nearly 40 points since 1985, it's still the second-worst state behind Arizona in air quality. The American Lung Association identified that six of the 10 smoggiest and most air-polluted cities in the country are in California (seven, if you go by short-term particle pollution levels).

The Golden State is also in danger of missing its 2030 climate goals unless it nearly triples its reduction rate of planet-warming gases, as CalMatters reported.

"The climate crisis doesn't take a break for tough budget years. Anything we put off for later will only cost us more  as the climate crisis worsens," David Weiskopf, senior policy advisor for NextGen California, told the outlet.

What can be done?

California may want to look into solutions similar to what South Korea is doing, developing a way to significantly reduce planet-warming gas pollution by converting manure into biochar instead of composting it.



At the individual level, your voice is powerful. Consider using it more. Hold state representatives accountable by using your vote to support lawmakers with a history of action toward climate progress. This will help mitigate lobbying against climate progress, such as New York City's congestion pricing effort being "indefinitely paused" ahead of a June 30 start date.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and actionable info that makes it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
TBILISI (Reuters) - The European Union's ambassador to Georgia said on Wednesday that the country's process to join the bloc had been effectively halted by legislation on "foreign agents" that was signed into law this month.

Georgia's Interpress news agency quoted EU ambassador Pawel Herczynski as saying the law had "a negative impact on the prospects of Georgia's progress" and that the process was now "practically stopped, practically frozen".

"In principle, the adoption of this law, as I see it, froze Georgia's integration in the European Union," said Herczynski, describing what he said was a difficult period in Georgia-EU relations.

The law, which requires organisations receiving more than 20% of their funding from overseas to register as "agents of foreign influence", has been slammed by domestic critics as authoritarian. Georgia's ruling party has defended it as a necessary step to secure transparency of funding.

For two months, the bill's opponents mounted some of the largest protests in Georgia since independence from Moscow in 1991 to try to get the legislation thrown out.

The United States, the European Union and Britain repeatedly criticised the law and warned Georgia that its passage would stall its efforts to gain full EU membership.

The South Caucasus country was granted candidate status last December, but EU officials have warned that Georgia has backtracked on some key reforms it needs to enact before it can join.

Interpress quoted Herczynski as saying on Wednesday that EU foreign ministers would discuss Georgia's status at a meeting in Luxembourg next week.

He said various options regarding the next steps had been prepared, and that EU members states "will decide which option to implement from this menu".

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Lucy Papachristou; Editing by Alison Williams)
NEW DELHI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- In the backdrop of increasing hoax bomb threats to airports, India's civil aviation security body Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has proposed a five-year flying ban on those who issue such threats, officials said Wednesday.

The information was given by BCAS Director General Zulfiquar Hasan in an interview to a local newspaper The Hindu.

Reports said on Tuesday 41 airports in India and over 50 hospitals in Mumbai received email threats warning of a bomb on their premises. However, all of them were found to be hoax calls.

"Such instances have been on the rise in the past two-and-a-half months, including threats received for various airlines. Six men have already been arrested across the country by local police teams," Hasan was quoted as saying. "The BCAS has also proposed a five-year ban on flying for miscreants across all airlines to the ministry of civil aviation."

He said threats have been received through phone calls, notes inside aircraft lavatories as well as emails.

Officials said the airport authorities try to ensure minimal disruption to passenger movements during such threats. The airports have implemented contingency plans and conduct anti-sabotage checks to remain alert.

Over the past two months, a series of hoax bomb threats have been sent to schools, airports and hospitals across the country including the national capital territory Delhi. 
Ukraine and the European Union have finalized the text of a security deal and agreed to sign it "in the near future," Ukraine's Presidential Office reported on June 19.

The EU is expected to join 17 countries, including the U.S., Japan, U.K., Germany, and France, that have signed similar bilateral treaties to help Kyiv repel Russia's aggression.



Ihor Zhovkva, a deputy head of the Presidential Office, and Charles Fries, deputy secretary general of the European External Action Service for Peace, Security, and Defense, held the final round of negotiations on the security agreement on June 19.

Ambassadors of the 27 EU member states had already agreed on the 11-page document, Die Welt reported in May, citing its undisclosed sources. The EU wanted to finalize the agreement by early July at the latest, according to the outlet.

The EU undertakes to hold consultations on Ukraine's needs within 24 hours in case of any new aggression against it, according to the draft of the agreement received by Die Welt.

The EU also promises to provide further military aid, help with military training, demining, defense sector reforms, cooperate in countering hybrid threats and cyberattacks, and assist with reconstruction.

G7 members presented their plan for long-term security commitments for Ukraine at the NATO summit in Vilnius in early July last year.

Under this plan, individual countries would provide bilateral support to help Kyiv repel the ongoing Russian invasion and deter any future aggression.

The security guarantees would entail explicit and long-lasting obligations, as well as bolster Ukraine's ability to resist Russian aggression. The guarantees would also cover sanctions, financial aid, and post-war reconstruction.

Read also: Ukraine preparing 10 more bilateral security agreements, Zelensky says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The European missile conglomerate MBDA is jumping into the burgeoning market for ground-launched cruise missiles with its new Land Cruise Missile (LCM). It will be unveiled this week at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris. The LCM is based on MBDAs Naval Cruise Missile (NCM), which evolved in part from the components of the air-launched SCALP-EG cruise missile that has been used to devastating effect by Ukraine. NCM is significantly larger with a different fuselage design and much greater range. LCMs introduction comes as the need grows for new mobile, modular ground-based long-range strike capabilities. MBDA will showcase its #LCM system for the first time during @cogeseurosatory. This sovereign ground-launched Deep Precision Strike #capability is designed to meet the needs of the strategic environment on the battlefield. Read the press release: https://t.co/ZSzURDUKO3 pic.twitter.com/Yw3tSqPWp7 MBDA (@MBDAGroup) June 18, 2024 MBDA released a few details about the new missile system on Tuesday. Like the NCM, the LCM was designed to offer metric precision at very long range, although the release does not specify its range, size, payload or guidance systems. However, the missile it is based on is about 21 feet long with the droppable booster, weighs 1.4 tons with a 1,100-pound warhead, flies at about 500 mph, and can reach targets about 620 miles away, then-company President Antoine Bouvier explained in a 2010 interview. The NCM which has components that are based on the SCALP-EG. (MBDA) The NCM has a GPS-assisted inertial navigation system (INS) guidance package, allowing it to fly at very low altitudes and adjust course, Belvoir pointed out. During the final attack phase, a pre-programmed imaging infrared seeker then recognizes a target and locks on. NCM is currently deployed on French Navy FREMM class frigates. MBDA did say on Tuesday that the LCM has a high survivability when penetrating through enemy integrated air defense systems due to its reduced radar cross section and terrain-following capability; and high lethality against targets. LCM will also allow highly accurate synchronized time-on-target (STOT) capability that the French Navy demonstrated in April during a simultaneous NCM strike from both the multi-mission frigate Aquitaine and a Suffrenclass nuclear-powered attack submarine. The missile conglomerate did not explain what kind of launchers will be used. However, the rendering accompanying their media release shows wheeled launcher vehicles with four canistered rounds of the missiles each. Weve reached out to MBDA to find out the LCMs exact specifications as well as the type of vehicles they will launch from and will update this story with any pertinent information provided. This MBDA rendering show wheeled launchers similar to the US.-made LCM The reintroduction of ground-based cruise-missiles systems by the West was spurred by the 2019 collapse of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, or INF, between the United States and Russia. The INF had prohibited both countries from developing and fielding missiles in this category. You can read more about the implications of that in our deep dive from the time here. The U.S. Army and Marine Corps are both beginning to field and test ground-launched long-range munitions. In April, the U.S. Army for the first time sent elements of its newest ground-based missile system, called Typhon, overseas. In a blaring message to Beijing, it took part in an exercise in the Philippines. Typhon can fire Tomahawk cruise missiles and SM-6 multi-purpose missiles. That deployment was a glimpse into the future as the Army works through plans to permanently base these systems in Chinas backyard. As we explained in our story at the time, Typhon will eventually have the capacity to strike land and sea targets. US personnel unload a trailer-based launcher associated with the Typhon weapon system from a C-17A transport plane in the Philippines on April 7, 2024. US Army In May, we wrote about the U.S. Marine Corps new 44 unmanned Tomahawk launch vehicle firing one of those cruise missiles recently during a test. That launcher, a drone truck dubbed the Long Range Fires Launcher, is similar, but not identical to the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle-based design that the service is also fielding as a launch platform for Naval Strike Missile anti-ship missiles. As part of its commitment to ground-based long-range fires, the Marines last year stood up their first Long Range Missile (LMSL) battery, which The War Zone was the first to report. These missiles would be essential in a Pacific fight, where the Corps would be hopping from island to island and needing to hold the enemy at risk with the ability to hit vessels. The mobility is required to reduce vulnerability to counterstrikes and complicate adversary decision-making and targeting cycles. The Marine Corps Tomahawk launch vehicle actually firing a missile. USMC USMC The real-world application of mobile extended-range fires has come into sharp focus in Ukraine as Kyivs forces have used donated Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) and more recently Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) short-range ballistic missiles in blistering attacks on Russian targets. You can see a video of a Ukrainian ATACMS strike below. #BREAKING Here's the moment of Russian S-400 battery getting knocked off by Ukrainian ATACMS strikes in Mospyne, Donetsk region.S-400s tried to shot down ATACMS missiles, but failed. https://t.co/MWY6OxBN2X pic.twitter.com/I7AoJGCMD3 Clash Report (@clashreport) May 24, 2024 Longer-range weapons, such as Storm Shadow and SCALP-EG, have had a major impact, as well. So much so that Ukraine has petitioned and appears to have succeeded in getting donors of these weapons to allow their use against targets in Russia under certain circumstances. The air defense situation over and around Ukraine further highlighted how advanced standoff weapons will be critical in an all-out conflict against Russia as air defenses can become so dense, surviving them becomes perilous for all but the most advanced combat aircraft and joint operations. MBDA has yet to announce any deals for the LCM, but the most likely customers would be allied European nations seeking stand-off capabilities to counter Russia. A mobile system like this would provide that without requiring tactical aircraft. So even if airfields are damaged, they can still make high-priority deep strikes against critical targets in Russian territory. Finding and striking mobile launchers is a very challenging mission that requires immense real-time intelligence gathering capabilities over broad and hotly contested or denied areas. Russia is especially poor at executing this kind of mission. Thus, these missiles would be survivable even during a major conflict. Based on the stated 620-mile range of the LCMs navalized predecessor, even Moscow could be targeted by all the Baltic states, Finland. and potentially Poland. Kaliningrad and Belarus are vulnerable to this weapon when launched throughout Europe. The range of this ground-launched variant could even be further than the NCM, but we just dont know right now. Employing these missiles, along with other standoff weapons, against critical air defenses and command and control nodes so that F-35s carrying B61-12 nuclear bombs could make it to their targets intact also helps underpin NATOs increasingly important deterrent role. Customers operating NCM missiles and LCM systems will belong to an exclusive club of countries possessing very long-range Deep Precision Strike capability from below and from the surface of the sea as well as from the ground, MBDA said in its media release. Regardless of how they will be launched or where they will be launched from, the demand for these weapons could explode as nations race to arm themselves based on lessons learned in Ukraine and troubling projections of what could be on the horizon. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com

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Russia's law labeling foreign organizations as "undesirable" and Moscow's prosecution of individuals involved in those groups violates the European Convention on Human Rights, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) determined in a unanimous ruling issued June 18.

The law on "undesirable" organizations has existed since 2015 and has been used to target perceived opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime.

A seven-judge panel ruled unanimously that the law violates the convention's articles regarding freedom of assembly and association and freedom of expression.

"The Court found that the legal provisions relating to 'undesirable organizations' were not formulated with sufficient precision to enable the applicant organizations to foresee that their actions, normally lawful, would result in their classification as 'undesirable' and the prohibition of their activities in Russia," the ECHR said in a statement.

The case was filed by the Andrey Rylkov Foundation and others on behalf of four organizations based outside Russia  the Free Russia Foundation in Washington, the Ukrainian World Congress in Toronto, the Association of Schools of Political Studies of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, and the Spolecnost Svobody Informace in Prague.

The four organizations were deemed "undesirable" under the Russian law, while other applicants were convicted for their affiliation with organizations also designated as "undesirable."

There are currently 160 such organizations listed as being "undesirable," including NGOs, independent media outlets, human rights groups, and others.

Organizations belonging to the list are banned from operating in Russia, and it is illegal for individuals or other media outlets to share their content. The Russian government passed a law on May 13 expanding the list of "undesirable" organizations to include those funded by foreign states.

Read also: Russian troops beheaded Ukrainian soldier in Donetsk Oblast, Kyiv claims







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Even in death, she was giving, says husband of KC mother, citys 48th traffic fatality

LaShan Townsend-Gunnels, a 52-year-old mother and grandmother, was turning south onto Troost Avenue on June 7, having just dropped a grandson off that morning at summer day camp, when a Chevy Silverado, speeding north just before 8 a.m. swerved and plowed into the drivers side of her GMC Terrain near 83rd Terrace. The force of impact flipped the SUV on its side.

Seven days later, on June 14, her husband, Glenn Gunnels, made the hard choice to take his wife of 24 years off of life support. Kansas City police on Wednesday released Townsend-Gunnels name, recording her as the citys 48th traffic fatality, a number that is up 37% over this time last year.

Even in death, Glenn Gunnels of Kansas City said, she was giving.

Townsend-Gunnels, an employee of Community America Credit Union who had previously worked for DST Systems for more than 24 years, was an organ donor. Five recipients received the gift of her tissue, her husband said.

In 2007, The Star published a Love Story profile of LaShan and Glenn Gunnels in The Stars Sunday magazine. The piece focused on the couples abiding faith.

LaShan Gunnels, 52, killed in a car accident on June 7, 2024, was the subject of KC Star Love Story profile, along with her husband, Glenn, in the Stars magazine in 2007.

The more we focus on our blessing and our God, the stronger our marriage is, she said in a piece that, although brief, did not shy from the difficulties the couple faced many years earlier. It spoke of the deaths of relatives, Glenns drug use, and his recovery as both of them dedicated their lives to God.

They met in 1996 and married in 2000. Combined, the couple had two sons and six daughters, one of whom, Patrice Gunnels, 25, was killed in Dallas in 2018 from a gunshot wound following an apparent argument. Glenn Gunnels said no one was prosecuted. Another daughter, 26, is currently battling thyroid cancer.

Through both blessings and trials, Gunnels said, he and his wife relied on the strength of their faith.

I just know that Gods timing is not our timing, Gunnels said.

The couple was to celebrate their 25th anniversary next year. Recently, they traveled to New York City and from there took a 10-day cruise to Bermuda. Next year they were to go to Hawaii as part of their anniversary. Gunnels said that if he has any regrets is that they did not take the trip earlier.

She had been asking for the last five years, he said.

More than 200 people, Gunnels said, including friends, relatives and co-workers, visited Townsend-Gunnels while she lay unconscious in the intensive care unit. One co-worker traveled from Dallas to be at her side.

She had a very giving spirit, Gunnels said. All she ever did was share the love of Christ. She looked for the best in each individual. She was a wonderful person and always giving of herself to others.

Gunnels said he looked to God in the decision to remove his spouse from life support.

I had to pray about it, he said. God told me that He created the heavens and earth in five days. He created man on the sixth day. On the seventh, he rested.

Seven days after the collision, Gunnels said, it was his wifes time to rest.

A funeral is being planned for Saturday. Details are pending.
This article was originally published in Wisconsin Examiner.

Gov. Tony Evers took the next step in starting additional audits of Milwaukee Public Schools on Monday, opening a request for services to conduct an independent operational audit of the district and starting a waiver to expedite the process of hiring an auditor to conduct an independent instructional audit.

The requests come as the states largest school district continues to deal with the fallout of being several months late in submitting required financial documents to DPI. Last week, the district submitted and approved a corrective action plan to work towards submitting the overdue financial documents and to address the factors that contributed to the delay.

Evers said last week that he would move forward with his plans to conduct operational and instructional audits in addition to the ongoing financial audit. He said in a statement on Monday that its exceedingly important that the audits are started quickly to fully identify the extent of the problems in order to work toward having future conversations about solutions.

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Evers also said its critical that Milwaukee Public Schools cooperates with the state Department of Public instruction during the financial audit in progress.

I look forward to these audits getting underway so we can support kids, families, and educators in MPS, as well as the greater community, Evers said in a statement.

According to the operational audit request, the audit would need to include a review of compliance and reporting functions, financial management and controls, an analysis of the districts human resources processes and the identification of areas to improve effectiveness and efficiency of the districts central office.

The Evers administration will take responses to the operational audit request through June 24.

The instructional audit would need to provide the state government, MPS and the public with analysis, guidance and recommendations on several issues including supporting positive learning environments for students; supporting educators, staff, and administrators and implementing curriculum and instruction best practices.

Milwaukee Board President Marva Herndon said in a statement that the board is appreciative of the Evers support.

We, too, are committed to identifying root causes of district challenges so they can be addressed moving forward, Herndon said.

Wisconsin Examiner is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Wisconsin Examiner maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Ruth Conniff for questions: info@wisconsinexaminer.com. Follow Wisconsin Examiner on Facebook and X.
Every time tourists misbehaved in national parks this year  so far

Every time tourists misbehaved in national parks this year  so far

Tourists have been flocking to US national parks in droves in recent years.

The growing interest comes as some Americans are moving away from cities to be close to nature.

But as more visitors crowd into national parks, some behave badly and disrespect the environment.

Getting out in nature has never been so hot.

In 2023, the National Park Service (NPS) recorded over 325.5 million recreational visits to the 63 parks in the United States, 13 million more than the previous year.

The surge in national park tourism is partially a return to prepandemic levels of domestic travel  the number of visits in 2023 was about 2 million shy of 2019's. But the interest in the parks is also occurring as some people of varying ages and socioeconomic backgrounds are ditching cities for less densely populated areas, which have greater access to nature  and, often, lower taxes.

While getting closer to nature may be in vogue nowadays, not everyone who visits a national park will follow the rules, some of which are in place to keep people away from life-threatening dangers.

From close encounters with wild animals to mishandling historic artifacts, here are five incidents involving badly behaved tourists in national parks so far this year.

Two people who visited Canyonlands in March were accused of stealing artifacts from an old cowboy campsite.

On March 23, what appeared to be a man and a woman visiting Canyonlands National Park in Utah were spotted entering Cave Spring Cowboy Camp.

According to the NPS, the camp was used by cowboys from the 19th century to the late 20th century, when cattle ranching was still prohibited in national parks.

The historical site has various items and furniture once used by cowboys  some of which, the NPS said, were tampered with and stolen by the individuals in March.

"The individuals entered a signed-as-closed area, removed artifacts from a cabinet, and handled historic harnesses in a manner that had potential to damage them," the NPS said in a May 15 press release.

In the release and on Instagram, the NPS shared still images of the perpetrators and called on the public to help identify them.

The NPS did not immediately respond to BI's request for an update on the case and whether the individuals have been identified.

In the Everglades, a group of tourists  including at least one child  were filmed getting close to a feeding crocodile in April.

An alligator. Gregory Sweeney via Getty Images

In April, the social-media account Tourons of National Parks re-shared a video taken by an Everglades National Park tourist named Alyssa. It shows a group of tourists standing a few feet away from an alligator crossing a path with what appears to be a turtle snapped between its teeth.

At least one child was among the tourists, the video shows.

In another video of the encounter shared on her personal Instagram account, the person who captured the incident said the people in the video were "extremely close."

"Just isn't worth getting attacked and the alligator having to suffer because you refuse to take 5 steps back," she added.

The NPS recommends keeping a safe distance from alligators in the Everglades, roughly between 15 and 20 feet, which is farther than what appeared to be the case here.

In April, a man was charged with drunkenly harassing a herd of bison in Yellowstone.

Lee Prince/Shutterstock

According to the NPS, park officials responded to a report in April that the 40-year-old man from Idaho drunkenly harassed a herd of bison in Yellowstone and received minor injuries in the process.

In the press release, the NPS said the individual kicked one of the bison in the leg. He was ultimately charged and arrested in connection to the incident, which included being under the influence "to a degree that may endanger oneself" and "disturbing wildlife."

The incident was the first involving bison in a national park this year. But the man can count himself lucky his injuries were minor.

In early June, the NPS reported an 83-year-old South Carolina woman was gored and lifted a foot off the ground by a bison in Yellowstone National Park, leaving her with serious injuries.

The NPS advises that visitors stay at least 25 years away from bison.

A herd of bison charged at another group of tourists in Yellowstone.

Lee Prince/Shutterstock

In a video captured by Yellowstone tourist Adella Gonzalez and shared by Storyful, a herd of bison is filmed meandering along calmly until a group of tourists walk by, seemingly prompting them to charge, USA Today reports.

In the video, taken in May, a person is heard saying, "I don't think that is very wise," just as the herd began to charge.

"We noticed tourists getting very close to the bison," Gonzalez told Storyful, and then the animals "began to get agitated and started running."

Besides putting your own life at risk, getting too close to bison can also endanger the animals themselves. In 2023, a bison calf had to be euthanized after a park visitor lifted it out of a river, causing it to be rejected by its herd.

In a statement shared on X, the NPS said it wouldn't have been able to quarantine the calf and that it did not make the decision lightly.

"We made the choice we did not because we are lazy, uncaring, or inexpert in our understanding of bison biology," the statement read. "We made the choice we did because national parks preserve natural processes."

In June, a man was sentenced to a week in jail after trespassing dangerously close to a thermal geyser in Yellowstone National Park.

The man who trespassed into the geyser also received a two-year ban from Yellowstone National Park. fitopardo/Getty Images

On June 13, the NPS shared a press release that a 21-year-old man from Washington received a weeklong jail sentence for venturing dangerously close to a steam vent of Yellowstone National Park's Steamboat Geyser, the world's tallest active geyser.

The man, who was caught on camera in April, hopped over a fence separating the geyser's steam vent from an observation point and got within 15 to 20 feet of it. According to the NPS website, the Steamboat Geyser erupts unpredictably, shooting hydrothermal water and steam that can cause severe burns up to 300 feet high.

After a Yellowstone National Park law enforcement officer arrived at the scene, the man told them he had gotten as close as he did to take photos.

In addition to jail time, the man was barred from visiting Yellowstone for two years and ordered to pay a $1,500 fine.

The magistrate judge presiding over the case told the court that she hoped the sentence would prevent other visitors from figuratively  and literally  following in the man's footsteps.

"She expressed her concern that the defendant's actions were seen by the people around him, and they might have thought it was okay to do the same thing," the press release noted. "And if every visitor to YNP disobeyed the rules, the park would be destroyed, and no one would be able to enjoy it."

Read the original article on Business Insider
New evidence Baldwin was reckless with gun before 'Rust' shooting, prosecutors say

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, attend the 2022 Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award Gala in New York City

By Andrew Hay

(Reuters) - New evidence shows that Alec Baldwin was reckless with a revolver before the weapon fired a live round that killed "Rust" cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in 2021, prosecutors alleged ahead of the actor's July manslaughter trial.

The evidence, which includes images and video from crew and a set photographer, shows Baldwin pointed his gun at a crew member and fired a blank round, held his finger on the trigger when not supposed to and engaged in horseplay with the weapon, special state prosecutors said in a Monday filing.

Baldwin's legal team said in a Monday motion to dismiss charges that prosecutors had built their case around the unproven hypothesis the gun was properly functioning and could not have gone off unless he pulled the trigger, an act the actor denies.

Baldwin's legal team argue the gun was modified, allowing it to fire without a trigger pull, an issue that has become central to the 17-month-old case.

Hutchins died after "Rust" armorer Hannah Gutierrez mistakenly loaded a live round into Baldwin's reproduction Colt .45 revolver during filming in a movie-set church near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Gutierrez in March was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and was sentenced in April to 18 months in prison, the same term Baldwin will face if found guilty.

Baldwin, the star of "30 Rock," said he was directed to point the gun toward the camera, he cocked it, and it "went off" on its own.

Among apparently new evidence that prosecutors intend to show at the July 9 trial is an image by set photographer Karen Kuehn taken minutes before a 911 call on the shooting.

In the photo, Baldwin appears to have his finger inside the trigger guard and his thumb on the hammer, prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Erlinda Johnson said in the filing.

A video clip taken by script supervisor Mamie Mitchell a couple of hours prior to the shooting appears to show Baldwin cock the gun and possibly pull the trigger, the prosecutors said.

In a further unspecified video on the day of the shooting Baldwin is asked to point the revolver left of camera and cocks the gun, despite not being asked to. There is some evidence he also pulls the trigger of the gun, prosecutors alleged.

Movie industry firearms safety guidelines tell actors never to put their finger on the trigger until ready to shoot, treat all firearms as though loaded, and not point a gun at anyone unless absolutely necessary, and then in consultation with a safety expert.

Some of the video evidence listed by prosecutors appeared to already have been shown at the March trial of Gutierrez.

(Reporting by Andrew Hay; Editing by Leslie Adler)
Middle schoolers from Copper River School District attempt to make copper projectile points modeled after one found at the nearby Gulkana Site. (Photo by Emily Fletcher)

Middle schoolers from Copper River School District attempt to make copper projectile points modeled after one found at the nearby Gulkana Site. (Photo by Emily Fletcher)

The ancestors of Alaska Native people began using local copper sources to craft intricate tools roughly 1,000 years ago. Over one-third of all copper objects archaeologists have found in this region were excavated at a single spot, named the Gulkana Site.

This is the site Ive studied for the past four years as a Ph.D. student at Purdue University. In spite of its importance, the Gulkana Site is not well known.

To my knowledge, it isnt mentioned in any museums. Locals, including Alaska Native Ahtna people, who descend from the sites original inhabitants, might recognize the name, but they dont know much about what happened there. Even among archaeologists, little information is available about it  just a few reports and passing mentions in a handful of publications.

However, the Gulkana Site was first identified and excavated nearly 50 years ago. What gives?

Archaeology has a data management problem, and it is not unique to the Gulkana Site. U.S. federal regulations and disciplinary standards require archaeologists to preserve records of their excavations, but many of these records have never been analyzed. Archaeologists refer to this problem as the legacy data backlog.

As an example of this backlog, the Gulkana Site tells a story not only about Ahtna history and copperworking innovation, but also about the ongoing value of archaeological data to researchers and the public alike.

What happens after an excavation?

In the United States, most excavations, including those that have happened at the Gulkana Site, occur through a process called Cultural Resource Management. Since the 1960s, federal regulations in the U.S. have required archaeological excavations prior to certain development projects. Regulations also require that records of any finds be preserved for future generations.

One estimate suggests that this process has created millions of records in the legacy data backlog. Archaeological data is complex, and these records include many file formats, varying from handwritten maps to pictures and spatial data.

The problem is worst for datasets that were created before computers were in common use. Research suggests that archaeologists are biased toward digital datasets, which are easier to access and use with modern methods. Ignoring nondigital datasets means not only abandoning the product of decades of archaeological work, it also silences the human experiences those datasets are meant to preserve. Once a site is excavated, this data is the only way the people who lived there can tell their story.

Archaeologists arent sure how to resolve this problem. Many solutions have been proposed, including the creation of new data repositories, making new use of existing datasets whenever possible, and increasing collaboration with other disciplines and with public stakeholders. One of the more creative solutions, the Vesuvius Challenge, recently made headlines for awarding its US$700,000 grand prize to a team that successfully used artificial intelligence to read ancient text.

Digital archaeology excavates old data

Of course, such a complicated problem has no single miracle cure. In my work with the Gulkana Site, Im employing many of these suggestions through a newer form of archaeology that some researchers are calling digital public archaeology. It combines digital archaeology, which uses computers in archaeological research, with public archaeology, which honors the publics interest in the past.

For me, archaeology looks different than what people might expect. Instead of spending my days excavating in some fabulous location, my work involves being parked at a computer for hours on end. I dig through old information instead of digging up new information.

As a digital archaeologist, I apply modern methods like AI to bring new life to decades-old data about the Gulkana Site. I write software that converts 50-year-old handwritten excavation notes into a digital map that I can analyze with a computer.

Although it is less glamorous, this work is arguably more important than excavation. Excavation is merely a data collection technique; on its own, it cant reveal much about a site. This is why there is still much to learn about the Gulkana Site, even though it was excavated decades ago.

Analysis is the way archaeologists learn about the past, and computers make more methods available to us than ever before. In my work, I use computational mapping techniques to study the copper artifacts recovered from the Gulkana Site. Studying where these objects were found will help us understand if they were used by all people at the Gulkana Site or reserved for a select few.

Connecting archaeology to communities today

I am also a public archaeologist; I believe that the past is made meaningful through the people connected to it. This means that my study of the Gulkana Site would be insufficient were it conducted solely by me, alone at my computer 3,000 miles away from Alaska. Instead, I have designed my research in collaboration with descendants of the people who lived at the Gulkana Site to ensure my research holds value to them, not just to archaeologists.

In my research, this means embedding opportunities for youth involvement throughout my project. Each year, I travel to Alaska to host a course about archaeology, Ahtna history, and technology in collaboration with Ahtna leadership and the local school district.

A local student searches for images to use in their final project, a video game about the Gulkana Site. (Photo by Emily Fletcher)

In the course, we take field trips to archaeological sites and the Ahtna Cultural Center. Kids learn about the artifacts found at the Gulkana Site and have an opportunity to make their own. Ahtna leaders share cultural knowledge with students. At the end of the course, students integrate what theyve learned into a video game about the Gulkana Site.

The goal of my research is to bring new life to the Gulkana Site through digital methods and outreach. My experiences demonstrate that even a site excavated 50 years ago can reveal more to help us better understand the past. Perhaps more importantly, it can also help the next generation gain experience with technological skills and connect with their heritage. Old archaeological data is still meaningful in the digital age  we just have to pay attention to it.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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* China is in its peak summer harvest season, which usually spans from May to late June.

* Statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs indicated that as of June 15, China had harvested around 310 million mu (around 20.68 million hectares) of winter wheat, with harvest progress surpassing 90 percent.

* Food supply in China, the world's largest food producer and third largest food exporter, is significant to global food security and prices.

JINAN, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Over a dozen operators drove harvesters in an orderly manner through a vast wheat field in east China's major breadbasket province Shandong. In just 10 minutes, large areas of golden wheat are reduced to short stubble.

"The granaries are already full, yet there's so much grain that the trucks haven't finished unloading," said Guo Bobo, manager of the field and a major grain producer in Wenshang County. Guo's field reaps a record average yield of 9,750 kg per hectare.

Now is the busiest and most rewarding time for farmers like Guo, as China is in its peak summer harvest season, which usually spans from May to late June.

A farmer watches as harvested wheat is uploaded onto a truck in Weifang City, east China's Shandong Province, June 5, 2024. (Xinhua/Xu Suhui)

BUMPER HARVEST

Statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs indicated that as of June 15, China had harvested around 310 million mu (around 20.68 million hectares) of winter wheat, with harvest progress surpassing 90 percent.

The wheat harvest in southwest China's Sichuan Province and central China's Hubei Province, two agricultural powerhouses, has concluded. Shandong, the country's second-largest wheat producer, has harvested 98.2 percent of its 60.54 million mu of wheat as of Sunday.

Shandong's total grain production has remained stable at over 55 billion kg for three consecutive years. This year, wheat yields and total production are expected to reach new heights, said Yang Wujie, an official from the provincial department of agriculture and rural affairs.

This summer, the main winter-wheat-producing provinces across the country have maintained stable or slightly increased planting areas, with overall wheat growth conditions better than usual, laying a solid foundation for a good summer harvest, according to the ministry.

Behind this progress lies China's commitment to summer grain production by enhancing rural infrastructure, developing high-standard farmlands, and investing in the grain seed industry alongside scientific and technological research.

In Shandong, nearly 76.43 million mu of high-standard farmland have been developed, covering about 80 percent of the province's total cultivated land and 90 percent of permanent basic cropland, according to Yang.

"The strategy of 'storing grain in the field and technology' is fundamental to China's efforts to secure food production capacity," said Li Genying, a researcher at the Crop Research Institute, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences.

A farmer drives a reaper to harvest wheat in a field of Liubeizhai Township of Zunhua City, north China's Hebei Province, June 15, 2024. (Photo by Liu Mancang/Xinhua)

China now has around 299 million mu of saline-alkali arable land. Significant progress has been made in salt-tolerant wheat technology, with over 700 new lines and 52 approved varieties undergoing testing for salt-alkali tolerance, said Liu Luxiang, a researcher at the Institute of Crop Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS).

Some of these new varieties have demonstrated promising potential for achieving higher and stable yields, which could significantly enhance grain production capacity, Liu said.

WORLD FOOD STABILIZER

According to a report released by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on June 7, the FAO Food Price Index continued its upward trend in May for the third consecutive month.

This increase, driven by rising global export prices of wheat, reflects concerns over potentially lower yields due to poor crop conditions in some major producing regions including North America and Europe.

The FAO Cereal Price Index rose by 6.3 percent in May compared to the previous month, contributing significantly to the overall rise in the international food price index.

An aerial drone photo taken on June 2, 2024 shows reapers harvesting wheat in a field in Tancheng County, east China's Shandong Province. (Xinhua/Xu Suhui)

Food supply in China, the world's largest food producer and third largest food exporter, is significant to global food security and prices.

Statistics from the National Food and Strategic Reserves Administration showed that in 2023, wheat served predominantly as a staple food in China, maintaining a stable and balanced supply-demand relationship throughout the year.

China's grain output rose 1.3 percent year on year to a record high of 695.41 million tonnes last year, which was the ninth consecutive year that the country reported a grain harvest of over 650 million tonnes.

"As a country that accounts for nearly one-fifth of the world's population, China sticks to feeding its people while helping the countries in need with domestically produced food," said Yuan Liang, a researcher at CAAS.

"By avoiding the possibility of exacerbating international food price fluctuations caused by the large purchase of wheat in the international market, China makes great contributions to the stability of the world's food supply," Yuan noted.

(Video reporters: Feng Yuanyuan, Ye Jing, Ren Liying, Yang Jin, Chen Kai; video editors: Jia Xiaotong, Li Qin, Wang Houyuan, Wei Yin, Liu Ruoshi) 
Los Angeles City Council President Paul Krekorian, pictured in 2022, originally wanted expansion of the council to go before voters this year. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

The Los Angeles City Council voted Tuesday to create a new citizen's commission to look at expanding the size of the council, reducing the number of council meetings and other potential changes to city operations.

The 13-member commission will be charged with developing proposals for the November 2026 ballot that would revise the city charter, which spells out the powers and duties of city departments, offices and elected officials.

The idea of expanding the 15-member council has been circulating for a few years, with several council members signing on to the idea. Council President Paul Krekorian had hoped to send a council expansion measure to L.A. voters in November.

Although a council committee studied the concept over several months, its members never coalesced around a single strategy, leaving the question to the new commission.

Council expansion had drawn support from a number of civic groups, which argued that it would improve community representation at City Hall and diversify the membership of the council.

Godfrey Plata, deputy director of the nonprofit group L.A. Forward, said his organization and others were disappointed by the council's failure to act.

"We thought it was procrastination to punt it over to a charter commission," said Plata, whose group argued last year in favor of growing the council to 29 members. "But we're certainly eager to continue a public conversation around it."

Krekorian, who faces term limits at the end of the year, has continued to argue in favor of expansion, pointing out that the city of nearly 4 million has the same number of districts as nearly a century ago, when its population was much smaller.

Reducing the size of each district would make the council more responsive to residents, he said, while also reducing the influence of "institutional organized money" in elections.

"I think it even reduces the risk of corruption," Krekorian said last week during an appearance at the Los Angeles Current Affairs Forum.

Krekorian said the new charter reform commission will also look at other issues, including the city's handling of real estate development, the process of filling vacant council seats and the procedure for censuring or suspending elected officials who have engaged in wrongdoing.

Michael Feinstein, speaking on behalf of the Los Angeles County Green Party, called on the council to make sure the commission also looks at major changes to city elections, including a move to "ranked-choice" voting, which allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference instead of choosing just one.

The last major overhaul of the city charter was in 1999. That year, voters established a system of neighborhood councils and gave more authority to the mayor, among other things. On that same ballot, voters rejected efforts to expand the council.

This time around, it's not clear how wide-ranging the commission's work will be. Although the council can forward topics for study, the commission will also collect input from a wide range of individuals and community groups.

Under the plan approved on Tuesday, Mayor Karen Bass will have the power to appoint four of the commission's 13 members. Krekorian will select two, as will council President-elect Marqueece Harris-Dawson.

Those eight would be appointed in August and September, according to a timeline created for the commission. Once they convene, they would then spend three months developing a work plan and selecting five additional commissioners.

The commission's schedule calls for it to spend much of 2025 deliberating and collecting public input. In January 2026, its proposals would be submitted to the council, which would then decide which ones would appear on the November 2026 ballot.

Feinstein, a former mayor of Santa Monica, criticized that arrangement, warning that the council will have the power to reject any of the commission's proposals. He also faulted the council for allowing the commission to be populated by political appointees.

"This [process] embeds a direct City Council conflict of interest around deciding the future size and powers of the council," he said in an email to The Times.

The charter reform commission is also expected to look at whether to shrink the number of council meetings  a topic that has exasperated some council members in recent months.

The city charter requires that the council meet at least three days each week. Councilmembers Katy Yaroslasvky, Tim McOsker and Eunisses Hernandez recently backed a ballot proposal to reduce that number to one day per week. But others on the council resisted the idea, saying it needed vetting from the soon-to-be-formed commission.

Separately, the council voted on Tuesday to approve language for two city charter amendments on the Nov. 5 ballot. One would establish an independent redistricting process for the Los Angeles Unified School District, which takes in 26 cities and is governed by a seven-member board.

The other ballot proposal is aimed at strengthening the city Ethics Commission, which enforces laws dealing with campaign fundraising, lobbying and other political activities. Under the proposal, the agency would receive a minimum of $7 million per year for its operations.

Backers say this would prevent elected officials from retaliating against the agency by cutting its budget. The proposal would also triple the fines for ethics violations and give the Ethics Commission the ability to hire its own lawyer in some cases.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Experts say bird flu is a Pandora's box. Are we about to open it?

On the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic, a different virus threatens to cause widespread illness and death, bring the global economy to its knees and throw us back into the chaos that we seemingly just emerged from with the virus SARS-CoV-2. That pathogen is, of course, bird flu or avian influenza, especially the H5N1 strain.

While were not there yet, nearly all the conditions are ripe for a new pandemic. H5N1 is seemingly everywhere we look. It's in wild birds, factory farm birds, cats, mice and traces of it have shown up in milk thanks to hundreds, if not thousands, of dairy cows that have become the new focal point in this unwinding crisis. But a lot of open questions remain, including if we have the capacity to stop it in time.

Bird flu is far from being a new pathogen. Whispers of a fowl plague date back to the late 19th Century, while H5N1 specifically was first detected in 1996 in Chinese geese. A year later, H5N1 virus outbreaks were detected in poultry in Hong Kong, infecting 18 people and killing six. Thats around when virologists and public health experts noticed H5N1 is a particularly nasty bug with broad pandemic potential and have been closely monitoring it ever since.

Over the years, it has sprung up and disappeared again and again, infecting about 900 people, killing 463 to date. That gives it a severe death rate of 52%, according to the World Health Organization.

But our current situation  the one that is becoming increasingly harder to ignore  really began about three years ago, when bird flu began spreading rapidly in wild birds, massacring millions of them. It alarmed experts who reported it even threatened to wipe out entire colonies of penguins in Antarctica. But it became even more alarming when the virus began spreading more easily in mammals. It killed hundreds of sea lions and walruses, but also began to kill house cats and other wild animals.

Birds peck at food intended for dairy cattle

This is concerning because spreading in mammals means its more likely to infect humans. The 1918 swine flu virus H1N1, which killed an estimated 20 million people, had both mammalian and avian genetics. For context, SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind COVID, has infected approximately 775 million people globally and has so far killed about 7 million people, giving it around a 1% death rate. (COVID is no longer surveilled as much as before, however, so these numbers are most likely an undercount.)

And now things in the U.S. have seemingly reached a crescendo, in which dairy cows are harboring the virus, spreading it amongst each other and even killing cows in some instances. So far, outbreaks in more than 100 dairy farms in 12 states have been reported, but experts have said that cases are likely flying under the radar. So far this year, three Americans have been infected by H5N1 viruses that started in cows, and all of them recovered, but some experts say that patients may be avoiding doctors or refusing tests.

Naturally, another pandemic emerging is a huge risk. But how severe is this situation really? And what can be done to make sure it doesnt reach a devastating worst case scenario?

Is this officially a pandemic yet?

The definition of a pandemic varies. An epidemiology dictionary defines a pandemic as one step above an epidemic, which is sudden, widespread occurrence of infectious disease. According to this definition, an influenza pandemic would occur when almost simultaneous transmission takes place worldwide.

When H1N1 began to spread in 2009, experts characterized it as a pandemic due to its proliferation across both hemispheres. The WHO has three criteria that must be met in order for a pandemic to be declared: First, it must be a new strain that has not circulated among humans before. So while HIV was a pandemic in the 80s, today it is not considered such. Second, it must infect humans and cause serious illness. Lastly, it must spread efficiently among humans.

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B3.13, [the bird flu strain] that's circulating among dairy cattle certainly checks one box, Dr. Rajendram Rajnarayanan of the New York Institute of Technology campus in Jonesboro, Ark., told Salon. If we let this strain circulate uncontrolled, then boxes 2 and 3 are not that far [behind.]

Rajnarayanan added that recent reports of avian flu in domestic cats and house mice are certainly worrisome.

Virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen told Salon she does not believe we are close to a bird flu pandemic yet because there is no evidence of epidemic spread between humans anywhere in the world.

This has, however, caused a panzootic (pandemic in animals  in this case, birds) ongoing since 2021, she said.

Katelyn Jetelina, an epidemiologist and author of the newsletter Your Local Epidemiologist, told Salon she agreed. Despite there not being an official definition of what constitutes a pandemic, it is generally when there is sustained transmission of humans worldwide.

pelican suspected to have died from H5N1 avian influenza

We are not close to this, given its not spreading human-to-human yet, Jetelina said.

To date, there have only been three human cases of bird flu associated with the outbreak of U.S. dairy cows. Nonetheless, its still worrying because in the latest confirmed case, respiratory symptoms were reported (unlike the other two cases), which means the virus could be evolving ways to spread more easily.

The bovine situation is a step up from this, just due to how widespread the virus is, and how many people have exposure to cattle (compared to small mink farms or remote sea lion colonies), Dr. Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College London and the Pirbright Institute, told Salon. This clearly represents a much larger human-animal interface than the other examples. Pandemics occur when the unlikely event of one of these influenza viruses gets the right combination of mutations. Its a little like buying a lottery ticket  this outbreak is allowing the virus to bulk buy lottery tickets.

How deadly is bird flu in humans?

According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in December 2023, there had been 902 cases of bird flu in humans in 23 countries since 1997. These cases had a cumulative case fatality proportion of greater than 50 percent.

Notably, the three recent cases that have been associated with the outbreak among dairy cattle in the U.S. have been categorized as mild. Only one had respiratory symptoms. Still, experts say that bird flu in humans is deadly. To put it in context of the 1918 flu pandemic, experts estimate that it had a 2.5 percent mortality rate.

Rasmussen said this is a difficult question to address, in regards to how deadly the bird flu is.

Deadly might depend on the host species. The viruses circulating in cattle appear to not cause severe disease in them and haven't yet caused severe disease in the known human cases, she said. The highly pathogenic term for avian influenza viruses refers to severity in birds.

However, she said, we do know that HPAI H5N1 viruses  like the one circulating in cattle  can be lethal in humans.

We dont fully understand what determines how severe disease will be in one species or one individual over another and this is an important and critical area of research, she said.

I dont think we know enough [data] yet to make conclusions about this, Peacock said. Similar viruses are circulating in wild birds as well in the U.S., for example. There is a lot of variability in reports about how deadly H5N1 is, a lot of this is due to ascertainment issues (i.e. lots of mild or asymptomatic cases never being detected) and it may also be partly due to virus dose and exposure route (inhaling high titre virus contaminating liquids versus getting milk splashed in someones eye.)

Bird flu has been the cause of death for millions of wild and domestic birds worldwide. Its also been extremely deadly in seals, sea lions and minks. It has wiped out cats, foxes and even a polar bear. As it stands, it doesnt seem to be as deadly in cows  which is the host humans are likely getting an infection from, but some cows did get so sick they had to be euthanized.

It seems that the death rate is far lower in cows than other animals weve seen, like birds and cats, Jetelina said. Unfortunately, we dont know why. There is so much we dont understand about the pathophysiology of what makes it more lethal for one animal than another.

While it seems that many of the infected cattle have recovered, Rajnarayanan said there are anecdotal reports of very sick cattle and a few dead and culled dairy cattle.

Earlier this month, WHO shared that a 59-year-old patient died of H2N2 in Mexico. It was the first laboratory-confirmed case of H2N2 globally, and the first reported case in Mexico. But notable, it is a different strain than the bird flu strain that is circulating in livestock in the United States. (The H and the N in these names refer to specific proteins on the virus, which can significantly differ in how they infect and cause illness.)

More recently, WHO clarified that the man died from separate health conditions, though the patient did test positive for bird flu. Experts who Salon spoke with said they werent concerned about this case.

The H5N2 is concerning because someone died and that is always sad, however, Mexico vaccinates for H5 flu and it is endemic in the bird population, Dr. Keith Poulsen, an associate professor of large internal medicine at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, told Salon. Same in Asia; every once in a while we see an outbreak or a single person die  the outbreaks are rare, but are important.

Is the government doing enough testing?

One of the most prevalent criticisms of the federal agencies tasked with surveilling and curtailing this virus is that testing is scarce, delayed and lacking transparency.

Testing still seems somewhat random and voluntary. We should be doing more  both in cattle and humans, William Hartmann, an assistant professor of anesthesiology and principal investigator for the UWMadison COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Program, told Salon.

I would prefer to see more testing of farm workers and milk, Dr. Daniel Goldhill, a lecturer in virology at the Royal Veterinary College at University of London, told Salon. I would like to see serology to see if workers were infected asymptomatically. In terms of virus sequencing data, releasing the sequences is a positive step though more metadata such as sample date and state or farm would be helpful.

With at least 25 confirmed infected herds, Michigan seems to have the most outbreaks (though recently surpassed by Idaho with 26) but thats because they are doing more testing than most other places.

I don't think people were surprised when additional cases were found in Michigan, Goldhill said. Other states do not seem to be tracking human symptoms as well as Michigan, so it is possible that human cases have been missed. Without doing serology testing, we will not be able to know if we have missed cases.

States that are testing more are likely to report more cases. Test positivity is the key to gauge the spread, Rajnarayanan said. In the meantime, we definitely are not testing enough, he said.

Are there tests and vaccines ready for the public?

Poulsen said commercially available tests are already available.

Anyone can buy PCR and ELISA tests, he said. They are not idiot proof, like at home COVID tests, nor should they be, because we want them to be accurate. That means trained people with sophisticated equipment with a low error rate.

He added there is no CLIA requirement for animal testing, referring to federal lab standards and private labs can do all the testing they want. There is also no legal requirement to report test results, but there is no way to enforce that effectively. Moreover, he said, the infrastructure is there for testing.

We are ready and equipped to test, he said. We just need industry, the states, or the USDA to allow us to do so.

Jetelina said that even at-home flu tests will likely pick up H5N1 because its closely related to influenza A.

The big challenge will be fall, as we will not be able to differentiate between [seasonal] flu and H5 unless we have a more specific test, she said.

I think that COVID demonstrated both the best and the worst about vaccines, Goldhill said. We produced an amazing vaccine but people still died due to vaccine hesitancy and inequitable distribution of vaccines. Current flu vaccines are not as effective as mRNA vaccines were against COVID. It will be interesting to see how well mRNA vaccines work against flu. In any case, it takes a significant amount of time to make a vaccine, during which the virus would be able to spread.

rooster is held in a cage

The situation on raw milk

Despite conservative news outlets pushing the sales of raw milk, scientists unanimously agree that its not a good idea to drink it. Pasteurization is a process most commercial milk goes through that kills not only viruses but bacteria and other pathogens that may be present in dairy.

Raw milk from sick cows has a good load of viable virus, while the exact risk to humans is not known, Rajnarayanan said. It's playing with wildfire when you consume raw milk loaded with a viable virus.

Notably, cats that consumed raw milk from infected cows died.

Even without a H5N1 outbreak in cows, raw milk is not safe because of bacteria that can severely sicken people, Jetelina said. Theres a reason why we have had pasteurization for over 100 years nit works.

With H5N1, she said, there is added unknown risk.

We know that it is in raw milk, however how sick it will make people is still under investigation, she said. The risks, though, are presumed to greatly outweigh benefits.

What keeps experts up at night

I am starting to worry more now, Hartmann said. The virus wants to make a successful jump from birds to cows and to humans. It continues to spread in herds [and] has changed in humans to some extent as well. The first two confirmed cases had only conjunctivitis, this last individual developed respiratory illness. Once it gets to the lungs, it becomes much easier to spread. These are reasons to really be alert.

Poulsen said he is worried that the virus will become endemic in the countrys dairy cattle population, which could create significant long-term health and productivity problems.

The longer that this virus is allowed to propagate unchecked, the risk of human health problems goes up, Poulsen said. I worry now that we are not doing effective surveillance and we are not providing industry with the tools they need to control the disease.

He added that if the H5N1 variant that is circulating, it becomes endemic.

We do not want H5N1 that is circulating to become endemic and be in the same position as Asia and Mexico, but we are handling the disease in a similar way, Poulsen said.

Indeed, most experts expressed a concern that the lack of data and surveillance is a major issue. Jetelina said the government isnt doing even close to enough testing on animals and humans.

I dont think its because they dont want to, but rather there are very real challenges on the ground, including lack of trust, she said. Building partnerships with the front line is the most urgent thing we need to do to get a better handle on this.

Rasmussen said part of the issue with testing is that it requires a collaboration between multiple state and local agencies, as well as the USDA and CDC, which dont always cooperate. It also requires participation and consent from the affected farms.

As a result its hard to know how much testing has been done and how much will be done going forward, Rasmussen said. It can differ a lot by jurisdiction.

Poulsen elaborated and said there are too many legal and political barriers to testing, and that the laws differ for poultry and cattle.

I will start worrying once wastewater H5 levels increase in a location and it starts to correlate with an increase in human cases, Rajnarayanan said. If we wait till it starts translating into ER department visits and hospital ICUs, then it will be too late.
There's an under-the-radar planet-warming gas lurking around our atmosphere that deserves your attention.

What's happening?

Increasing wildfires in Canada are accelerating snow and ice melt in areas like the Arctic, which is warming four times as fast as the rest of the planet, a report from Wired details.

In addition to more frequent wildfires, Wired reports that wildfires are becoming more intense, producing more black carbon and warming the planet even further. After falling from the sky, black carbon particles become an accelerant when they land on snow and ice. The darker ground and water underneath the ice then absorb more sunlight. It's a disastrous feedback loop.



"You can see these little particles drilling holes down into the ice. It's just very dramatic how the black carbon can absorb sunlight and heat things up," said Brenda Ekwurzel, director of scientific excellence at the Union of Concerned Scientists.

Why is black carbon concerning?

Black carbon is the sooty material released from combustible engines, wildfires, and home heating and cooking sources like coal and wood.

Air pollution from coal and wood smoke has been linked to respiratory issues  even in rural areas around the globe. A recent study published in the National Library of Medicine associated indoor wood smoke with health issues like elevated blood pressure, certain cancers, and pregnancy complications.

Older adults, especially those in nursing homes, are at high risk from wildfire air pollution because of their weakened immune systems.

"It's a huge health issue," said Yusuf Jameel, a black carbon researcher. "And yet, it barely receives any mention when we talk about a powerful climate solution."

What can be done?

Countries are making efforts to reduce the need for coal. Germany recently shuttered several coal-fired plants after decades of operation, and the last coal plant in the United Kingdom is scheduled to shut down in September. Old coal plants in the U.S. and Australia are being repurposed to create new jobs and deliver clean, renewable energy.



At the individual level, swapping out the need for coal and other dirty energy sources to heat your home and cook your food is a great place to start, along with taking local climate action and voting for political candidates who represent your feelings on the issue.

A small step like switching to an induction stove can help, too. It's not only safer for your family, but it can help reduce nearly 150 pounds of pollution yearly.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and cool tips that make it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
Explainer-Why has a visit by U.S. lawmakers to India upset China?

By Krishn Kaushik

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - A delegation of U.S. lawmakers met the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Wednesday in India's northern town of Dharamsala.

The meeting annoyed Beijing, which urged the United States on Tuesday to "fully recognise the anti-China and separatist nature of the Dalai clique" and refrain from "any form of contact with it".

WHY IS THE DELEGATION IN INDIA?

The bipartisan seven-member group of American lawmakers is visiting India to meet the Nobel peace laureate, the Dalai Lama.

The United States has long supported the rights of the Tibetan people to practice their religion and culture, and has accused China of human rights violations in the remote Himalayan region that borders India.

A bipartisan bill passed this month by the U.S. House of Representatives aims seeks to push Beijing to hold talks with Tibetan leaders, stalled since 2010, to secure a negotiated agreement on Tibet and spur China to tackle Tibetan aspirations on historical, cultural, religious and linguistic identity.

Among the delegation are the two authors of the act, titled 'Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act' or the Resolve Tibet Act, along with Nancy Pelosi, the former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives.

The delegation also met officials of Tibets government in exile, which functions from India.

WHO IS THE DALAI LAMA?

Born in 1935 as Lhamo Thondup, the Dalai Lama was identified as the reincarnation of his predecessor at the age of two, and enthroned in 1940 as the 14th Dalai Lama in Lhasa, the Tibetan capital.

Beijing invaded Tibet in 1950, and the Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against its rule, since when he has lived in exile in the Himalayan town of Dharamsala.

He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.

WHY IS THE VISIT CONTROVERSIAL?

It has riled China at a time when Beijing and Washington are struggling to improve ties, and India's relations with China have also been strained since a military standoff on their Himalayan frontier killed 24 soldiers in 2020.

U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the Resolve Tibet Act soon, in a bid to find a resolution for the dispute, although Washington considers the Tibetan Autonomous Region to be a part of China.

"This visit should highlight the bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for Tibet to have a say in their own future," the chief of the U.S. delegation, and one author of the bill, Michael McCaul, said ahead of his departure from Washington on Friday.

WHAT ARE CHINA'S OBJECTIONS?

China accuses the Dalai Lama of being a "splittist" or a separatist, but he says he wants genuine autonomy for his remote Himalayan homeland.

While Beijing has always objected to his meetings with foreign leaders, this has not prevented the Dalai Lama from meeting them, including U.S. presidents, although Biden has not met him yet.

However, the most contentious issue is the task of appointing his successor.

While Beijing has said it has the right to approve a successor, in a move set to strengthen its control over Tibet, the Dalai Lama says only the Tibetan people can make that call, and his successor could be found in India.

(Reporting by Krishn Kaushik; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
An equal justice statue stands outside the doors of the Minnehaha County Courthouse in Sioux Falls. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight)

An equal justice statue stands outside the doors of the Minnehaha County Courthouse in Sioux Falls. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight)

A new court fight over South Dakotas abortion-rights ballot measure could hinge on a complicated answer to a simple question: Does a set of six-year-old petition requirements still exist?

The court fight started Thursday, when the Life Defense Fund filed a lawsuit in state court. The lawsuit challenges the legitimacy of a citizen-initiated Nov. 5 ballot question that would reinstate abortion rights. The Life Defense Fund is a ballot question committee organized to oppose the measure.

Dakotans for Health is the ballot question committee that supports the measure and gathered the petition signatures to put it on the ballot. Instead of filing a response in state court, Dakotans for Health asked a federal judge on Tuesday to intervene on its behalf. To understand why, its necessary to retrace a series of legislative and court battles dating to 2018.

Thats when the Republican-dominated Legislature enacted restrictions on the petition process that citizens use to place measures on the ballot. The restrictions were intended to prevent non-South Dakotans from circulating petitions, in part by requiring petitioners to provide information proving their South Dakota residency.

One year later, in 2019, some lawmakers said out-of-state petitioners were circumventing the law. So the Legislature repealed part of the 2018 law and replaced it with a new law. Among other things, the 2019 law required all petition circulators to publicly disclose personal information including their address, email and phone number.

A ballot question committee, SD Voice, and a liberal blogger, Cory Heidelberger, successfully sued to block the 2019 law. They said the law violated their First Amendment free speech rights, had a chilling effect on petition circulators, and imposed unwarranted new restrictions on the ballot measure process, for the purpose of further consolidating power in South Dakotas dominant political party.

In 2020, legislators responded with another new law applying similar requirements, but only to paid petition circulators. Dakotans for Health successfully sued to block that law. A federal appellate judge in the case wrote, While South Dakota has important interests in protecting the integrity of the ballot initiative process, it has no interest in enforcing overbroad restrictions that likely violate the Constitution.

Both the 2019 and 2020 laws included a 30-day residency requirement for petition circulators. That specific requirement was challenged in yet another lawsuit, filed by the League of Women Voters. The league agreed to drop its narrower lawsuit when Dakotans for Health succeeded with its wider suit.

According to the Life Defense Fund, the end result of all that lawmaking and litigating is that the original 2018 law still stands. Its still good law, the group claims, because none of the subsequent bills that sought to repeal or amend it are currently in force. Those bills were challenged by opponents and blocked by the courts.

The Life Defense Fund therefore asserts that the abortion-rights petitioners were obligated to comply with the 2018 law, which requires sworn statements including information proving the petitioners South Dakota residency. The Life Defense Fund says Dakotans for Health failed to obey that law, and therefore the entire petition is disqualified.

Dakotans for Health says the Life Defense Fund lawsuit is an illegal attempt to resurrect the 30-day residency requirement for petitioners and flout the related court decisions. Thats why Dakotans for Health is asking a federal judge to prevent any state court from enforcing the residency requirement.

There are other allegations in the Life Defense Fund lawsuit: petition circulators failed to provide a required handout to signers, some signatures were counted as valid even though theyd been crossed out on the petition, some signers didnt list the county where theyre registered to vote, some signers were allegedly duped into thinking they were signing a petition about repealing the sales tax on groceries, and so on.

This will be proven by witness testimony, Sara Frankenstein, the attorney for the Life Defense Fund, told South Dakota Searchlight.

Dakotans for Health, represented by attorney Jim Leach, asserts that the Life Defense Funds other allegations are insufficient to achieve its aim of removing the abortion-rights measure from the ballot. The petition circulator residency questions are critical to the possible success of the lawsuit, Dakotans for Health says in its federal court memorandum.

Nancy Turbak Berry, a Democratic former legislator who leads a coalition advocating for the ballot measure, panned the Life Defense Funds legal strategy.

It is a press release masquerading as a lawsuit, designed solely to allow the opponents of reproductive freedom to peddle more inflammatory lies, she said.

Dakotans for Health filed its ballot petition in May with about 55,000 signatures. The Secretary of States Office validated the petition after sampling the signatures and estimating that 46,098 of them were from South Dakota registered voters  more than the 35,017 needed to qualify for the ballot.

Abortions are currently banned in South Dakota, except to preserve the life of the pregnant female. The ballot measure 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.

South Dakota Searchlights Joshua Haiar contributed to this report.

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The post Explaining the lawsuit against South Dakotas abortion-rights ballot measure appeared first on South Dakota Searchlight.
June 19, also known as "Juneteenth," marks an important moment in American history when Union troops announced the freedom of all slaves.

On that day in 1865, Union Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 in Galveston, Texas, informing the people that all slaves were free. This occurred two months after Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered and the Union Army won the Civil War, and more than two years after then-U.S. President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation.

According to The Associated Press, although the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves in the South in 1863, it could not be enforced in many places like border states until after the end of the Civil War. Granger was ultimately sent to Texas to start enforcing the proclamation.

General Order No. 3 stated:

The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.

While this proclamation marked the expansion of freedom for enslaved Black people, the language at the end showed that there was still a long way to go in their fight for equality.

For some time, acting on the general order was done at freed people's own peril. The order was not followed by former slave owners, and in some cases freed people were forced back into work. June 19, 1866, was the first celebration of Juneteenth by newly freed Black men and women, one year after the announcement,

Now many people, especially Black Americans, celebrate this day across the country. Combining the words "June" and "nineteenth," the day is sometimes called "Juneteenth Independence Day," "Freedom Day," or "Emancipation Day." According to the National Archives, it is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.

Most states have officially recognized and commemorate Juneteenth, but it was only officially recognized as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021.

In June 2020, former President Donald Trump generated controversy by claiming that he made the term "Juneteenth" famous, and that very few people had heard of it.

After more cases of police brutality resulting in the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and other Black people in 2020, Juneteenth was marked nationwide with protests as well as celebrations.

Sources:

Gates Jr., Henry Louis. "What Is Juneteenth? African American History Blog." The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross, 16 Jan. 2013, https://www.pbs.org/wnet/african-americans-many-rivers-to-cross/history/what-is-juneteenth/.

"National Archives Safeguards Original 'Juneteenth' General Order." National Archives, 19 June 2020, https://www.archives.gov/news/articles/juneteenth-original-document.

Taylor, Derrick Bryson. "The History of Juneteenth." The New York Times, 12 June 2024. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/article/juneteenth-day-celebration.html.
From protecting reproductive rights and Black history to ending gun violence and supporting Black-women-owned businesses, the 10 honorees for theGrio Heroes are doing the difficult work to truly make a difference in our communities.

Everyday heroes are all around, and theyre truly making the world a better place.

No mission is too small for these heroes. That includes converting a van into a mobile health clinic offering free routine checkups in rural Ghanaian communities; developing a dream incubator to amplify Black-women-owned businesses in the nations capital; and fighting head-on against Floridas restrictions on teaching Black history in schools by simply touring historic sites.

These are just a few small examples of the Herculean efforts made by this years 10 honorees for TheGrio 2024 Heroes Award.

The annual award shines a light on leaders who positively impact our communities, culture and the world.

Meet the 10 honorees for TheGrio Heroes Award for 2024!

Osei Boateng, Founder, OKB Hope Foundation

Through his OKB Foundation, Osei Boateng has been delivering medical services and health education to the most remote and rural Ghanaian communities. His medical team set out each week in a van converted into a health clinic, offering free routine checkups.

Rhiannon Carnes, co-founder and executive director, Ohio Womens Alliance

Rhiannon Carnes founded the Ohio Womens Alliance, the only Black-led organization within a statewide coalition that spearheaded a campaign and eventual passage of a constitutional amendment safeguarding reproductive rights. This effort made Ohio the seventh state in the nation to approve such an amendment.

Marvin Dunn, founder and president, Miami Center for Racial Justice

Marvin Dunn, a historian and activist, has led the fight against Floridas Stop WOKE Act with his Teach the Truth tours and Teach No Lies marches. Dunn, who is planning to build a peace house on the land in memory of the Rosewood Massacre, has been verbally and physically attacked for his activism.

Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director, Moms Demand Action

As the first executive director of Moms Demand Action, Angela Ferrell-Zabala leads one of the nations largest gun safety organizations. She took over amid a surge in gun violence in the U.S. With that, Ferrell-Zabala has since focused on broadening MDAs mission and efforts. That includes making gun makers accountable for gun safety, supporting programs and initiatives in communities most impacted by gun violence and building up the next generation of leaders.

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Angel Gregorio, entrepreneur and activist, Black + Forth

Angel Gregorio transformed a 7,500-square-foot lot into a retail oasis to provide an affordable commercial space in D.C. for Black businesses, particularly to amplify Black women entrepreneurs. She also hosts a farmers market twice a month, which kicked off in April.

Jacqueline Hubbard, president, Association for the Study of African American Life and History-St. Petersburg Chapter

Jacqueline Hubbard and ASALH St. Petersburg Chapter took a page of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) playbook and re-launched Freedom Schools as a response to Floridas new standards on how to address Black history in schools under the Stop WOKE Act.

Chris CJ Matthews, founder and global kid activist, Blankies 4 My Friends

At age 5, Chris CJ Matthews launched his nonprofit, Blankies 4 My Friends, which has been providing thousands of warm blankets, socks, books, and more to sick and displaced children nationwide.

Kwane Stewart, co-founder and board president, Project Street Vet

Since 2011, Kwane Stewart has walked the streets of San Diego offering medical care to pets of people experiencing homelessness. Through his nonprofit Project Street Vet launched in 2020, he expanded his mission, offering support in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Atlanta, Orlando, and New York

Mychal Threets, librarian

From his viral TikTok videos and Instagram reels, Mychal Threets became a social media sensation advocating for local libraries and the love of reading. Lauded as A modern-day Mr. Rogers meets LeVar Burton, Threets currently serves as the resident librarian for PBS and the literacy ambassador for the Children Literacy Initiative.

Jabee Williams, executive director, LiveFree OKC

Jabee Williams launched Live Free OKC, the citys first initiative dedicated to building peace and reducing gun violence. Community activism isnt new for Williams, who has held food and toy drives for his northeast community.

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Claim:

The Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt were originally coated in white limestone and capped with 24-karat gold.

Rating:

Rating: Mostly True

Context:

Many pyramids were known to have capstones at their peak, also known as pyramidions, which were made of limestone, sandstone, basalt or granite. Some may have been covered with plates of copper, gold or a naturally occurring alloy of gold and silver known as electrum.

A Reddit post shared to the platform in 2022 claimed to show "What the pyramids used to look like" when they were initially constructed. The topmost of the two images featured in the post depicts a digital reconstruction of a "white, polished limestone" structure with a "pure gold peak," according to the caption. The bottom image shows the pyramid as it appears in the 21st century.

A reverse-image search using Google Lens revealed that the image was originally published on April 16, 2019, by the insurance company Budget Direct. Titled "The 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, reconstructed," the article described the Great Pyramid of Giza as being:

Built over 4,500 years ago from stones weighing 2.5 to 15 tons each, the Great Pyramid remained the world's tallest man made structure for nearly four thousand years. Nearby excavations have revealed it's likely that up to 100,000 skilled and well-fed workers came from all over the country to live in a temporary city as they built the otherworldly pyramids of this region.

It's unclear why an insurance company reconstructed the seven wonders "in meticulous detail in a series of incredible 3D videos." What we do know, though, is that the claim is true.

Snopes spoke with John Darnell, an Egyptologist and Near Eastern languages and civilizations professor at Yale University. He confirmed that the Great Pyramid of Giza, also called the Great Pyramid of Khufu  and most pyramids, for that matter  would have originally been constructed with limestone casing stones.

"Much of that layer survives in the upper courses of the pyramid of Khafre (Chephren) at Giza  and freshly cut, it would have been rather brilliantly white, though millennia of pagination have mellowed the color of what survives," wrote Darnell.

The photograph shared on Reddit features the Great Pyramid of Giza, built for as a tomb for the pharaoh Khufu about 4,600 years ago. According to the tourism company Pyramids of Giza, the Great Pyramid of Khufu was the first to be built on the Giza Plateau, over a period of about 27 years. It was built with around 2.3 million blocks of stone consisting of roughly 5.5 million tons of limestone and 8,000 tons of granite.

"This mighty stone formed part of an outer layer of fine white limestone that would have made the sides completely smooth. It was polished until it shone so that the pyramid would have gleamed in the sun. The limestone casing blocks came from quarries at Tura 15km [9 miles] downriver from Giza," wrote the National Museums of Scotland

Many of the pyramids at the time were encased in an outer layer of limestone known as casing stones. One casing stone from the Pyramid of Khufu, which weighs more than 650 pounds, is on display at the National Museums of Scotland, featured below.

The above image shows an incomplete, fine white limestone casing stone from the Pyramid of Khufu. (National Museums of Scotland)

However, by the 19th century, most casing stones had been removed and used for other building work, although some can still be seen at the foot of the pyramid.

The above plate shows some casing stones in situ at the base. (Charles Piazzi Smyth/National Museums of Scotland)

As for the golden peak, Darnell told Snopes that it's possible. Many pyramids were known to have capstones at their peak, also known as pyramidions, which were made of limestone, sandstone, basalt or granite. Some may have been covered with plates of copper, gold or a naturally occurring alloy of gold and silver known as electrum. There is no longer a pyramidion on the Great Pyramid of Giza and, as such, experts aren't entirely sure what it may have once been made of.

"We have many pyramidions, often of dark-colored stone. Several are inscribed. Gilding in whole or part is possible," said Darnell, adding that few known pyramidions exist today.

The British Museum is home to one pyramidion believed to have been produced in 630 BC. It is made of limestone  not gold  and is decorated in hieroglyphic inscriptions on all four sides, showing the deceased worshipping Osiris, the god of the underworld, and being embalmed by the funerary rights deity, Anubis.

(British Museum)

If you'd like to see parts of ancient Egypt as they appear in the 21st century, you can take a digital tour of the Pyramids of Giza using Google Maps here.

Sources:

Arts, Global, et al. "Pyramid Casing Stone." National Museums Scotland, https://www.nms.ac.uk/explore-our-collections/stories/global-arts-cultures-and-design/ancient-egyptian-and-sudanese-collections/ancient-egyptian-collection/pyramid-casing-stone/. Accessed 11 June 2024.

"Casing-Stone." National Museums Scotland, https://www.nms.ac.uk/explore-our-collections/collection-search-results/. Accessed 11 June 2024.

Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/BudgetDirect/posts/the-original-seven-wonders-of-the-world-have-been-reconstructed-in-meticulous-de/2143837739018991/. Accessed 11 June 2024.

Google Lens. https://lens.google.com/search?ep=cnts&re=df&s=4&p=AbrfA8pKzmcfZ_eYvRsi83VS_HBhcjjeAnhIKFL6RhK0JXHzLh5gcpLNIB7t8skvOIcktBNvSoFyQXnAsjBFS2uOnwBiFmIG67dch5VpOBPiX166FigtBh7u34aKFjgDT1mdjTSk05EpnKZqYr4UqgYhKa2OdE5mTlpl4FuzCEBGiCwAH2aB5HKvmgjt_x3rGrFIlO3cIG2V2S8Nag4mQVNv0nLoRmTF4Gv2v6_m-Q0j9eU0q_G3gwgzb4EWZUxDNMYqiPXZTV_LhQ%3D%3D#lns=W251bGwsbnVsbCxudWxsLG51bGwsbnVsbCxudWxsLG51bGwsIkVrY0tKR016WkRnNE1qYzJMVGt6T0dRdE5HWXdNeTA0WXprMUxUUXhaamd6TmpneU5XUTFZaElmWnprNVIwbENhbkoxUVVWaVZVTm1hVWxtYTFwaVJFTk9jbVJsVjBGQ2F3PT0iLG51bGwsbnVsbCxudWxsLDEsbnVsbCxbbnVsbCxudWxsLFswLDAsMTAwMDAwLDEwMDAwMF1dXQ==. Accessed 11 June 2024.

John Coleman Darnell | Near Eastern Languages & Civilizations. https://nelc.yale.edu/people/john-coleman-darnell. Accessed 11 June 2024.

John Darnell | Yale MacMillan Center Council on Middle East Studies. https://cmes.macmillan.yale.edu/people/john-darnell. Accessed 11 June 2024.

Pyramids of Giza | National Geographic. 6 June 2019, https://web.archive.org/web/20190606034643/https://www.nationalgeographic.com/archaeology-and-history/archaeology/giza-pyramids/.

The 7 Wonders of the Ancient World, Reconstructed | Simply Savvy. 3 May 2019, https://web.archive.org/web/20190503165952/https://www.budgetdirect.com.au/blog/the-7-wonders-of-the-ancient-world-reconstructed.html.
FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: Airplane fuselages bound for Boeing's 737 Max production facility sit in storage at their top supplier, Spirit AeroSystems Holdings Inc, in Wichita

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Relatives of the victims of two fatal Boeing 737 MAX crashes asked the Justice Department on Wednesday to seek a fine against the planemaker of up to $24.78 billion and move forward with a criminal prosecution.

"Because Boeings crime is the deadliest corporate crime in U.S. history, a maximum fine of more than $24 billion is

legally justified and clearly appropriate," Paul Cassel, a lawyer representing 15 families, wrote in a letter to the Justice Department released on Wednesday.

The families said the Justice Department could potentially suspend $14 billion to $22 billion of the fine "on the condition that Boeing devote those suspended funds to an independent corporate monitor and related improvements in compliance and safety."

The Justice Department said in May it determined Boeing violated a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement that shielded the company from a criminal charge of conspiracy to commit fraud arising from fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people.

Boeing last week told the government it did not violate the agreement. Federal prosecutors have until July 7 to inform a federal judge in Texas of their plans, which could be proceeding with a criminal case or negotiating a plea deal with Boeing. The Justice Department could also extend the deferred prosecution agreement for a year.

Justice Department officials found that Boeing violated the deferred prosecution agreement after a panel blew off a new Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9 jet on Jan. 5, just two days before the 2021 agreement expired. The incident exposed continued safety and quality issues at Boeing.

In the letter, the families also said Boeings board of directors should be ordered to meet with them and the department should "launch criminal prosecutions of the responsible corporate officials at Boeing at the time of the two crashes."

Boeing and the Justice Department did not immediately comment.

The letter noted that Senator Richard Blumenthal,

who chairs the Senates Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations and held a hearing with Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun on Tuesday, said, "There is near overwhelming evidence in my view as a former prosecutor that prosecution should be pursued."

The two fatal crashes of Boeing 737 MAX planes occurred in 2018 and 2019 in Indonesia and Ethiopia and led to the best-selling plane's worldwide grounding for 20 months. A safety system called MCAS was linked to both fatal crashes.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
Families of the passengers who were killed in two Boeing plane crashes have asked the Department of Justice to fine the aerospace company $24.8 billion and prosecute responsible corporate officials, saying that Boeings crime is the deadliest corporate crime in U.S. history.

The sum represents the maximum that could be levied in a criminal trial. The Justice Department has been mulling criminal charges against the company over its shoddy safety record.

The families made their request Wednesday in a 32-page letter that was sent by attorney Paul Cassell and obtained by HuffPost.

The families continue to believe the appropriate action now is an aggressive criminal prosecution of The Boeing Company, the letter read.

All 157 people on board an Ethiopian Airlines flight to Kenya were killed when the pilot lost control of the aircraft in March 2019; less than five months earlier, a Lion Air flight crashed into the sea around Indonesia, killing all 189 people on board. Both of the planes involved were Boeing 737 Max 8s.

The Federal Aviation Administration issued an order grounding the 737 Max in 2019, permitting them to fly after almost two years of review. Another grounding was ordered earlier this year after a panel blew off the side of an Alaska Airlines flight over Oregon. Suction created by the gaping hole in the plane was strong enough to pull passengers personal items outside.

Boeings current CEO, David Calhoun, was made to testify before a Senate subcommittee about the companys safety lapses on Tuesday. He apologized to the families for the grief that we have caused, but defended the company and said he was proud of our safety record.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) said at the hearing that more than a dozen whistleblowers have contacted the subcommittee with information about the companys safety practices.

The crash victims families suggested that the previous CEO, Dennis Muilenburg, who was fired in 2020, be among those prosecuted for alleged criminal negligence.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun testifies before a subcommittee of the Senate Energy and National Resources Committee on the company's safety culture, following a number of recent incidents on Boeing airplanes, in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. Families of the victims of Ethiopian Airlines flight 302, a Boeing 737 Max 8 that crashed in 2019, attended the hearing and spoke to reporters earlier in the day. ALLISON BAILEY via Getty Images

Their letter also admonished the Justice Department for failing to be more forthcoming about actions it might take, and for referring to the families not as crime victims but as crash victims.

In a May 31 meeting  which The Washington Post described as tense and emotional  family members met with Justice Department officials to discuss the case and try to convince the officials to prosecute Boeing.

They are requesting a scheduling conference on July 7, with a trial scheduled within 70 days of that date to comply with the law.

DOJ should not offer any concessions in plea bargaining, their letter read.

One last overarching point: any resolution of the case that fails to reflect that Boeing killed 346 people dishonors the crime victims memory  and the families will vehemently and appropriately object to any resolution that does not acknowledge Boeings responsibility for criminally killing their loved ones, it stated.

Related...
LOS ANGELES, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A nationwide movement to ban smartphone use in U.S. schools is gaining traction, as the nation's second-largest school district has approved a "phone-free" policy during school days to support students' academic success and well-being.

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) voted on Tuesday to implement the ban, which will take effect in January next year, according to the district's news release.

Citing research findings, the LAUSD, which enrolls more than 429,000 students in transitional kindergarten through 12th grade, blamed smartphones and social media for distracting students from learning, harming their mental health, and stifling in-person social connections.

"Cell phone use in schools has gotten out of control," said Board President Jackie Goldberg in a statement. "It's gotten to the point that students don't talk face to face, but instead text one another when they're sitting right next to each other."

Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin, who co-sponsored the resolution, said it broke her heart seeing "students sitting alone, isolated on their phones instead of engaging and learning with their peers."

The board is considering several options to implement the ban, including providing cell phone storage such as locked pouches or cell phone lockers. Other options under consideration include using technological means to restrict access to social media platforms.

The school district's action reflects the growing campaigns in California to restrict or eliminate cellphone use at schools amid reports about the rising anxiety and other harms that students are experiencing.

On Monday, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy warned that social media use has become so prevalent and potentially damaging among young people that Congress should require warning labels on online platforms.

In 2019, the California Assembly introduced a bill, AB 272, encouraging school districts to develop and adopt policies that limit or prohibit student use of smartphones during school hours.

In February this year, the state assembly introduced another bill, AB 3216, which would require school districts to adopt a policy to limit or prohibit student use of smartphones while at school or under the supervision of a school employee. The law would go into effect on July 1, 2026.

The campaign has the support of California Governor Gavin Newsom. Also on Tuesday, Newsom called for a statewide ban on smartphone use in California schools to curb cyberbullying and classroom distraction by limiting access to smartphones.

He said he planned to work this summer with state lawmakers to dramatically restrict phone use during the school day in the nation's most populous state, according to a report by the New York Times.

This initiative in California aligns with a growing national effort to limit smartphone use in schools. Districts and schools across the country have adopted policies restricting student smartphone use during the school day.

Starting in 2023, public schools in Florida began prohibiting student phone use during instructional time and blocking students' access to social media on district Wi-Fi. Florida became the first state in the nation to mandate a ban on cell phone use in classrooms.

Indiana followed suit with a law that will take effect in the 2024-2025 school year. Ohio's legislation, enacted in May 2024, requires school districts to create policies to minimize cell phone use.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to introduce a bill later this year banning smartphones in schools -- the latest in a series of such legislative moves.

A new survey echoed the concerns of these state leaders. The report released last week by the Pew Research Center revealed that 72 percent of U.S. high school teachers said cellphone distraction was a major problem in the classroom.

Many schools and districts have tried to address this challenge by implementing cellphone policies, such as requiring students to turn off their phones during class or give them to administrators during the school day. However, 60 percent of high school teachers, whose schools have a cellphone policy, said it was difficult to enforce the policies, according to the survey. 
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  The family of a man with special needs counted on a St. Petersburg nonprofit to safeguard money for his care, but now that money is missing, and they dont know if theyll ever get it back.

The Rollins family is one of a number of families weve heard from. They told 8 On Your Side they counted on the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration in St. Petersburg to protect their son Matthews money.

8 On Your Side investigation: Rick Scott demands answers after $100M goes missing from trust fund

Donna Rollins said Matthew is one of her familys greatest achievements. He was born prematurely at 26 weeks. He needs a lot of love and support every day in his Apple Valley, California home.

Matthew now 22 years old, is on oxygen, has cerebral palsy and is physically unable to leave a wheelchair.

Matthew is a 24-hour job, she said. He is very active in our community. We have a nurse which comes in each day and helps me during the day.



And that care comes at a price.



When he was about 13 years old, he had some surgeries, and unfortunately, there was a mistake made, which ended up in a settlement being provided to him, said Rollins.



In 2013, Matthew was awarded $50,000.



It was to go into a trust so that Matthew would be able to access after he turned 18, his mother said.

The money was placed in a trust with the Center for Special Needs Trust Administration. With the money in a trust, Matthew could keep his eligibility for government benefits, but one day, everything changed.



Out of the blue, we received a letter from the center. I have it right here, said Rollins.



The letter notified the Rollins family and 1,500 others that their trust money had vanished. In February, the center filed for bankruptcy.

Its founder Leo Govoni stands accused of siphoning over $100 million in funds that was intended to help people with special needs, but instead loaned it to other businesses under his control.

$100M gone: Did businessman accused of taking money from special needs trusts have help?

When asked if his account was wiped out, Rollins said other than about $17. I filed with the bank, put in a claim and we wait.



As the Rollins family and others wait, the case is making its way through federal bankruptcy court where attorneys and forensic accountants are investigating where the money went and how they can recover it.



I felt that putting his money in a trust was safe. I never even imagined that it could disappear like this, she said.



While Govoni is not facing criminal charges, he and his business partners are facing civil litigation from Attorney General Ashley Moodys office.

I hope they can untangle this and make them accountable, keep them accountable, said Rollins.

Rollins believes other families are out there that dont know their money is missing too.



I thank you for what youre doing and for making this more people aware everybody should be outraged, said Rollins. Im calmer now than I was a few months ago, but I am that somebody could do this to our kids.

During a hearing last week, 8 On Your Side learned several Govoni-controlled businesses turned over thousands of documents dating back 15 years. This may paint a picture of where the missing money went.

$100M missing: Who approved loan in the first place?

The center still holds some money in trusts. The bankruptcy court appointed a Chapter 11 Trustee in this case and that Trustee wants to move the funds to a new administrator. It could happen within the next 30 days, but theres no word on if or when the families involved will see any of that money.

The next hearing is scheduled for July 23 at the federal courthouse in downtown Tampa.

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.
A family is seeking answers from law enforcement following the death of one of their loved ones at a jail in Los Angeles County.

Relatives of the man, identified as 43-year-old Eugene Youngblood, held a news conference Wednesday morning with their attorney to shed light on what they say is an unexplained death.

On June 5, Youngblood was arrested by Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department deputies for an alleged low-level misdemeanor and was transported to the Lancaster Jail. According to the familys lawyer, the 43-year-old was just to receive a citation and then be released.

Justin Timberlakes attorney speaks out after DWI arrest

Mr. Youngblood entered detention as a healthy young man in no apparent distress, attorney Brad Gage said in a release. It is alleged that he was to be cited and released, which means he had a low-level misdemeanor such as possession of small quantities of drugs.

The Sheriffs Department later confirmed that Youngblood was arrested for the alleged possession of narcotics for sale.

About four hours after he was booked into jail, Youngblood was found unresponsive in his cell.

Eugene Youngblood as seen in an undated photo. (Youngblood Family)

Eugene Youngblood as seen in an undated photo. (Youngblood Family)

Eugene Youngblood as seen in an undated photo. (Youngblood Family)

Eugene Youngblood as seen in an undated photo. (Youngblood Family)

Gage claims that LASD has not provided him with any information or evidence  including security video, bodycam footage or investigative documents  since Youngbloods death.

There are a lot of troubling questions that we need to have answers to and we dont have them yet, Gage said Wednesday. And thats why we are here: to seek justice, seek answers and hold the responsible people accountable.

LASD also failed to protect Youngblood and deputies did not see to his medical needs, Gage added, allowing him to die without any justification or explanation. He has filed a Governmental Claim Notice, a precursor to a possible lawsuit.

Speaking at the press conference on Wednesday, Youngbloods sister Gina said she believes there are details surrounding her brothers death that havent been revealed.

From the time of his initial arrest to the time of his death, I believe [LASD] deviated from protocol, she said.

Malibu mansion breaks record for most expensive house in California

However, when its all said and done, the family just wants answers and justice for the man they say embodied the word love.

I just want justice for my uncleI really want to know what happened, one of Youngbloods nieces said at Wednesdays press conference. He stayed with me, and I was told that he was getting released.

My uncle was lovedto know Eugene Youngblood is to know love, another family member, Yasmine Nichols, said. He was always there for us every time we needed himI miss him.

In a statement provided to KTLAs Kareen Wynter, the Sheriffs Department said it has not officially received this claim but takes every in-custody death seriously and strives to make every effort possible to prevent similar deaths in the future.

Inmate Youngbloods cause of death will be determined by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner  Coroner, the statement said. The autopsy is pending. To date, Investigators have found no evidence of force used during Inmate Youngbloods arrest, nor during his incarceration at Lancaster Station jail. Investigators found no signs of trauma on Inmate Youngblood at the scene. Body worn camera footage is being reviewed by investigators. Personal property and evidence were collected in furtherance of the investigation, which remains ongoing.

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.
My family's been on over 30 cruises. I hate upcharges, but these 6 things are actually worth paying extra for.

As a frequent cruiser, I'm selective about how much I spend on onboard extras.

But some things, like comfort, cute coffees, and crafted cocktails, warrant a splurge.

As a parent, I'm also willing to pay up for some "me time" while at sea.

Cruises are so back, and they're only predicted to get more popular.

The global cruise market, valued at $7.25 billion in 2021, is expected to grow about 11% from 2022 to 2028, according to Forbes.

One huge perk of this travel style is that it's pretty all-inclusive. Things like Broadway-style shows, multicourse meals, buffets, pool access, and onboard activities are built into the price of a typical sailing.

But ships also upsell and charge extra add-ons, upgrades, and perks. As a frequent cruiser who's sailed alone over 50 times and with family more than 30, I've increasingly become less likely to pay for these upcharges.

Instead, I save my hard-earned money for the upgrades that are actually worth it. Here are upcharges my family thinks are worth the splurge.

I tend to book a cheaper cabin category, but I'm willing to pay a premium to choose a quiet stateroom location

I rarely pay extra for a balcony room as I find that I don't use this feature enough to warrant the added cost. Instead, I opt for porthole-view rooms, which are generally less expensive.

But when selecting a room category during the booking process, I will pay more for a cabin located in an ideal spot on the ship.

Modern cruise vessels are huge, and I like a room that's centrally located on the ship, giving me easy access to everything I want to see and do. I'm also willing to pay a little more to select a cabin far away from elevators and loud entertainment venues.

After all, I need a good night's sleep to make the most of my days at sea.

Room service offers a level of convenience that makes the delivery fee palatable

Although some room service options remain complimentary, many now come with an extra fee. Amanda Adler

One of the best things about cruising is the food, and thankfully, most ships have tons of eateries onboard that don't cost extra. However, room service often comes with an additional fee.

Although I wish all cruise lines offered complimentary room service, it's so convenient I'm willing to pay extra for it  especially for an early breakfast or a snack after a long day of adventures.

I love bringing my son along, and paying for childcare allows me to make the most of my vacation

Cruise-ship kids' clubs are a great selling point for families, and access to them is almost always included in the cost of the trip.

However, the complimentary clubs are typically only open to potty-trained children. For younger kids, many cruise lines offer onboard nurseries for an added cost.

For my family, the nursery fees have proved well worth the investment. My son sailed on dozens of cruises as an infant and toddler, and these vacations produced some of my fondest travel memories.

By paying to use the onboard nursery, my husband and I were able to enjoy date nights and connect during our getaways.

I'm frugal when it comes to food, but I can't resist splurging on unique beverages

Disney Cruise Line sells the cutest coffees at sea. Amanda Adler

I'm not a fan of overpriced "all-inclusive" cruise drink packages, and I try to take advantage of included beverages like tea, juices, and enhanced water as much as possible.

Nonetheless, I'm happy to spend extra on premium cocktails, wine-tasting sessions with the onboard sommelier, and other unique drink experiences.

I'm a sucker for a concoction mixed up by a robot at Royal Caribbean's Bionic Bar or a latte with my favorite cartoon pal etched on top as served in Disney Cruise Line's Cove Cafe, and these liquid indulgencies often show up on my onboard cruise tab.

Onboard spa treatments get pricey, but the lush thermal suites are worth the added cost

Spa treatments can be far pricier at sea, so I'm particular about what I book.

I save basic treatments like massages and facials for when I'm back on land, where prices are more favorable, but I do try to book at least one day pass to the onboard thermal suite per cruise.

On many ships, these blissful retreats  which can have everything from heated loungers to aromatherapy showers  are a worthy investment for those seeking a quiet atmosphere.

They're the ideal spot to soak up some "me time."

As thrifty as I am, I never feel guilty blowing my budget on experiences in the cruise ports of call

While on a stop in Havana, I spent as much time as possible enjoying the port. Amanda Adler

By saving money at sea and not paying for unneeded extras, I can better allocate my vacation budget where it truly counts  in the cruise ports of call.

There's no shortage of memorable adventures to be found back on land: hiking in the Norwegian fjords, helicoptering to a glacier in Alaska, exploring Mayan ruins, and strolling through cobblestone streets in Italy

For my family, savoring authentic land-based experiences is our main priority, and I'm not afraid to spend a lot on these excursions.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Jordan Bardella, president of the far-right National Front party, arrives at the Eurosatory Defense and security exhibition, Wednesday, June 19, 2024 in Villepinte, north of Paris. Jordan Bardella, the National Rally president hoping to become France's prime minister, appealed Tuesday to voters to hand his party a clear majority after French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement on June 9 that he was dissolving France's National Assembly, parliament's lower house.( AP Photo/Michel Euler)

VILLEPINTE, France (AP)  The far-right leader angling to become prime minister after Frances upcoming parliamentary election backtracked Wednesday on his partys previous promise to pull out of NATOs strategic military command.

National Rally President Jordan Bardella said at the Eurosatory arms show outside Paris in Villepinte that he doesnt plan to question the commitments France has made on the international stage if voters give his party a majority that enables him to lead a new government, in what would be an awkward power-sharing arrangement with President Emmanuel Macron.

Referring to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Bardella said that "France mustnt leave NATOs military command while we are at war, because it would considerably weaken Frances responsibility on the European scene and, obviously, its credibility with regard to its allies.

The comments pulled back from a campaign promise made by his party in its manifesto for the 2022 French presidential election. The priority will be to leave the integrated NATO command, the 2022 manifesto read, a move that would have taken French military staff out of the NATO body that plans operations, and weakened Frances role and influence within NATO.

The latest about-face comes as the National Rally is toning down previously announced positions in an attempt to win voters outside of its traditional base before the June 30 and July 7 two-round parliamentary election  the partys first real chance of forming a government.

In spite of his comments regarding NATO, Bardella maintained that he's firmly against sending troops to Ukraine.

I am opposed, unlike the president of the republic, to sending troops and sending French soldiers to Ukraine, because I believe that first of all, a majority of French people is opposed to this decision, he said. Macron said in March that sending Western troops into Ukraine shouldnt be ruled out.

Bardella said that he supported sending continued French supplies of weaponry, ammunition and other military equipment and support to Ukraine to enable Ukraine to protect itself," but that he was also wary of the risk of any direct escalation with Russia, noting that it is nuclear-armed like France.

My position has not changed. It is  to hold the front and at the same time to avoid any risk of escalation with Russia, because Russia is a nuclear power, he said.

Bardellas euroskeptic anti-immigration National Rally party, and particularly its former presidential candidate Marine Le Pen, are known for close ties to Russia. Le Pen has expressed reservations about supplying Ukraine with additional arms.

Earlier this month, Macron dissolved the lower house of Frances parliament in a surprise announcement, sending voters back to the polls, after his party was handed a humbling defeat by the far right in the European Parliament election.

With his centrist block squeezed on both sides by the far-right National Rally and a newly formed coalition of parties on the left that have banded together against the far rights surge, Macron and his legislative candidates are furiously trying to steer voters back to the middle ground of French politics and away from what he describes as the extremes.

On Tuesday, Macron took aim at a campaign pledge by the left-wing New Popular Front coalition to make it easier for people to change gender in their paperwork. It is proposing that mayors and their deputies be empowered to handle such requests, which are currently managed by French courts.

Macron described the proposal as completely ludicrous, in a seeming appeal to conservative voters.

His comment dismayed campaigners for LGBTQ+ people. Campaign group SOS Homophobie posted on social media, So the strategy is clear: exploit minorities in the race for power.

In France, legislative elections decide the makeup of the parliament, not the occupant of the presidential Elysee Palace. Macron has a presidential mandate until 2027 and says he won't step down before the end of his term, although he might have to share power with a far-right-led government.

___

Morton reported from London. Associated Press writers Catherine Gaschka and John Leicester in Paris contributed to this report.
Rep. Jack Jordan, R-Bremen, speaks during a tax task force meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Property taxes again took center stage during tax reform discussions Tuesday  with farmers asking for a reprieve and local units of government seeking to head off significant cuts in revenue.

Thats it: how do you make (the system) simple, yet take care of those folks that have different needs?  Its complex to fix it. Rep. Jeff Thompson, who chairs the State and Local Tax Review Task Force, told the Capital Chronicle upon adjournment.

Thompson in April warned of impending jumps in agricultural land property taxes. And on Tuesday the Indiana Farm Bureau said its members need an intervention.

Indiana uses recent sales to assess most property types, but farmland is different.

The Indiana Farm Bureaus Katrina Hall testifies at a tax task force meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

The Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) instead determines a base rate, a rolling average with six years of capitalized net cash rent and net operating income. DLGF drops the highest value of the six and averages the remaining five years.

But Indiana Farm Bureaus advocacy lead, Katrina Hall, said the years-long delay in the formula data means farm income per acre is dropping even as the base rate grows.

Its kind of a fiscal cliff, she said.

That delay will keep hitting farmers.

As previous years values roll off in the calculation, Hall said, Were not going to have the low ones to moderate the increase. So its going to go high and stay there.

While the formula does help farmers, Hall continued, its still volatile because the net operating income calculation relies heavily on corn and soybean prices.

We have homeowners and other folks whose bills go up a few hundred dollars, and that is real burden to them. But for farmers, its several thousand at a time, she said.

Rep. Ed DeLaney, D-Indianapolis, asks a question during a tax task force meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Rep. Ed DeLaney, D-Indianapolis, said he was troubled by the contrast between the base value  $2,280 per acre in 2025  and what farmland actually sells for.

I see why other other taxpayers would figure that youre perhaps being treated a little too kindly, he said.

Hall noted that farmers dont get much of any benefit from the states tax caps and cant access tax relief mechanisms that other property owners can.

Farmers in many small rural school districts are the primary taxpayers, she added. And so to say that theyre  cheating the system  they certainly dont think that because theyre paying for the majority of services out there.

Rep. Jack Jordan, R-Bremen, defended agricultural landowners.

Coming from a rural county, its become renting  its almost like youre renting your own land as you pay these taxes, that I think are fairly high, Jordan said. He also critiqued the states tax system complexity, saying it has its tentacles in every direction.

Local units weigh in

Groups representing Hoosier municipalities and counties, meanwhile, acknowledged rising tax bills but detailed their members challenges.

The Association of Indiana Counties Ryan Hoff expressed dissatisfaction with limits on how much money local units of government can raise in property taxes.

Indiana caps that amount  the maximum levy  and dictates how much that cap can rise each year via the maximum levy growth quotient. The quotient uses the statewide rate of average, non-farm personal income growth over the last six years.

Hoff said that, while the income-based growth quotient may reflect taxpayers ability to pay, it doesnt account for service costs. Thats unless a unit appeals its cap based on annexation or extreme assessed value growth.

Lawmakers, including Thompson, sought to crack down on three-year assessed value growth, the most popular exception to the states limits, last session.

Hoff called the use of such exceptions part of the manner in which were forced to fight over property tax dollars.

The current MLGQ calculations may really no longer function effectively to align costs to revenue distributions, he said. Hoff told lawmakers that, if they planned to reform the growth quotient, the new system should still consider rising service costs in some way.

Jordan, however, critiqued local units.

The thing that I keep hearing is that local units have $4 billion of untapped tax revenues through income tax  and yet I see local officials unwilling to use that to fund extra services, Jordan said.  We just keep looking at the state to change the formula behind the scenes, do these gymnastics.  I, for one, am unwilling to continue to do these gymnastics.

Campbell Ricci of Accelerate Indiana Municipalities said local income tax is controlled at the county level, so interested cities and towns cant make changes unilaterally. He pushed to give individual municipalities that power.

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That is something that I think we can work on coming out of this committee as a way to ease tensions among all the units, Ricci said. Because a lot of the time, when you talk about the property tax system, its people fighting over similar pots of money. Everyone has an incentive to grow their levy because they want their share of the capped property taxes and they want their share of the (local income tax).

He additionally defended municipalities as more likely to hit the caps and lose out on property tax revenue, and asked lawmakers not to make debt service controls too burdensome.

Schools lay out challenges

Organizations representing school boards, business officials and superintendents  alongside small and rural schools  said the states current property tax system has some struggles.

In an analysis of property tax funding presented at the meeting, Policy Analytics found that growing districts and districts with high tax cap losses spend more on non-discretionary insurance, transportation and utility expenses than they receive in operation fund levies.

Statewide, schools spend about 75% of operation fund money on those expenses, leaving them with about 25% to use on HVAC systems, parking lots and any other operational expenses. Districts with fewer than 2,000 students fared better than average, with non-discretionary expenses consuming about 67% of the money.

Growing districts, however, spent 87% on those necessary expenses, and districts with high tax cap losses spent the equivalent of 114% of their operation funds on such expenses.

The report also found that growing districts and districts with high tax cap losses turn to debt to fund students similarly.

Statewide, schools got $3,324 per student on average out of their operations and debt levies.

Small districts do a little better  in their operations funds, so you can see their bar for debt decreases. Growing districts receive quite a bit less than the statewide figures, so they make up the gap with debt, said Scott Bowling, executive director for the Indiana Association of School Business Officials.

High circuit breaker districts receive even less than the growing districts in their operations funds. And they try to make up for it with debt but they cant quite get there, Bowling continued, with such schools receiving less per student than average.

Bowling asked lawmakers for simplicity, but when asked for recommendations, said one-size-fits-all wont work: rules that might look really good for one community might seriously hamper a different community.

The post Farmers ask for property tax intervention as communities, schools talk challenges appeared first on Indiana Capital Chronicle.
Father of Ahmaud Arbery works to preserve sons legacy in years since his death

Father of Ahmaud Arbery works to preserve sons legacy in years since his death

More than four years after Ahmaud Arbery was shot and killed in Brunswick, Ga., his father is working to keep the message of his sons life and violent death alive.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

Lori Wilson with Action News Jaxs sister station WSB-TV spoke to his father, Marcus, in the WSB-TV Action News studio just over a month after what would have been his 30th birthday.

In Brunswick this year, there were celebrations calling for unity in the community, but for his father, how he died is still fresh and painful.

Read: 2024 Georgia primary election runoffs: Local results

Its still hard, the number one thing is how he lost his life, Marcus Arbery told WSB-TV.

For Marcus Arbery, even 4 years later, the pain of how his youngest child was killed is still raw. On Feb. 23, 2020, Ahmaud Arbery was out for a jog when 3 men attacked and killed him in a Brunswick neighborhood.

It still hurts because he was just a loving young man. He loved his family, and if you knew him, you really, really, really see the heart he had, Marcus Arbery said.

CLICK HERE to read the full story by WSB-TV.

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  Fayettevilles city council voted to dedicate all remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to its Childcare Assistance Program.

The program first launched in 2022 to address high childcare costs following the Covid-19 pandemic but closed in 2023 after running out of funds.

The program will now be reinstated after it receives the $185,000 left in ARPA funds given to Arkansas.

Double homicide at Oklahoma business, suspect at large

Sarah Moore, Fayetteville city council member, hopes the money will go toward those who need it most, she said.

Any burden that we can take off of households that are really working really hard to make ends meet, allows them to be able to take a breath and think about you know longer term planning for their family for things like educational opportunities or other possible job opportunities, Moore said.

For more information about ARPA funds in Fayetteville, please visit the City of Fayetteville 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 KNWA FOX24.
BECKHAM COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR)  The FBI is looking to identify potential victims in a federal child exploitation case out of Knoxville, Tenn., that may have ties to Oklahoma.

James Coleman Thompson, 71, was indicted by a grand jury in Knoxville on June 5 for allegedly taking minors across state lines with the intent of engaging in sexual activity in September and November 2000.

Thompson could face a maximum of 15 years in prison, up to a $350,000 fine, and three years on supervised released if convicted.

We will find out why: Oklahoma Co. Sheriffs Office, court documents shed new light on unusual abduction

The FBI believes there may be additional victims in the case who still have not been identified. The bureau says potential victims would most likely include males from the 1990s to the present who were between the ages of 10 and 15, and involved in various youth wrestling programs or youth hunting organizations.

Investigators also suspect there could be Oklahoma-based victims in the case, after finding that Thompson purchased a 160-acre property in Beckham County near Sayre. Thompson is said to have visited the property for weeks at a time, and would have local families and their boys help out with hunts.

If you believe you or someone you know could be a victim in this case, contact the FBI Chattanooga office at 423-265-3601 or tips.fbi.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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
SEOUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol on Wednesday declared a "demographic national emergency" amid growing concerns about the Asian country's record-low birth rate.

Yoon issued the declaration at a meeting of the presidential committee on low birth and aging population, vowing to run a pan-government response system until the low birth issue is overcome, according to the presidential office.

The country's total fertility rate, or an average number of children a woman is expected to bear in lifetime, reached a record low of 0.72 in 2023, far below the replacement level of 2.1 required to maintain the current population.

The ministry of demographic strategy and planning will be set up as a "control tower," which will be led by deputy prime minister for social affairs to draw up policies on low birth, aged society and immigration in the long run.

Yoon said his government will focus on three pillars: balancing work and life, providing public childcare service, and offering preference to purchase houses.

For the work-life balance, the government will expand paternity leave and relevant allowances with an aim of raising the rate of paternity leave from the current 6.8 percent to 50 percent.

Public childcare service will be provided for children aged 3-5 free of charge, while expanding after-school programs at elementary schools.

Households with newborn babies will be given priority to buy houses, while offering low-interest loans to newlyweds. 
Fears of an Israel-Hezbollah war grow after IDF says it is ready for an offensive

Insights from The Hill, Foundation for Defense of Democracies, Haaretz, and Foreign Policy

The News

The Israeli military said it has approved operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon, raising concerns of a full-blown conflict with the militant group Hezbollah.

Israeli forces have exchanged fire with the Iran-backed outfit almost daily since war broke out in Gaza after Hamas Oct. 7 attack, but fighting intensified last week after Israel killed one of Hezbollahs top commanders. A senior US diplomat is in the region to find a diplomatic solution.

Israel demands Hezbollah pulls back from the border, while Hezbollah says it will not sign a deal until there is a ceasefire in Gaza.

SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Analysts say escalation could be inevitable

Sources: The Hill, Foundation for Defense of Democracies

Some analysts have warned that an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah is inevitable, with two columnists in The Hill arguing it is becoming more a question of when and not if. Even in the eventuality that the situation cools, the calm may be short-lived, they added, noting that Israel will not coexist with a force bristling with a rocket arsenal that can overwhelm Israeli air defenses, rain destruction on the country and protect Irans nuclear program. A research fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies think tank wrote that Israel will stop only when its security is restored and its interests are served.

Israeli army may lack manpower for a full-fledged conflict

Sources: The Financial Times, Haaretz

While Israels foreign minister has previously tweeted that Hezbollah will be destroyed and Lebanon will be severely hit in the event of an all-out war, the Israeli army likely doesnt have the manpower to fight all the wars it might want to fight, an analyst wrote in Haaretz. Even if ultra-Orthodox rabbis decide to let their yeshiva students die for their country instead of only in the tents of Torah, there wont be enough soldiers to realize all of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus dreams.

Conflict would be bloody for civilians in Lebanon

Sources: Semafor, Bloomberg, Foreign Policy

Israeli forces have acknowledged that Hezbollah is 10 times stronger than Hamas, and has roughly three times as many fighters. But Israels Defense Minister has also claimed that an escalation of the conflict with Hezbollah would return Lebanon to the Stone Age. Hezbollah is deeply embedded in Lebanese civil society, as Hamas is in Gaza, and non-military targets like civilian infrastructure were the object of Israeli attacks during a 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, Foreign Policy noted. The plan would be to destroy all semblance of Hezbollah rule in the country that is dominated by Hezbollah. Thats a lot of damage were talking about, an analyst told the outlet.
The Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 is set to see some refreshment that keeps several funding sources from running dry.

The Fire Grants and Safety Act ensures some 58 registered fire departments in Delaware and the Delaware Fire School will maintain access to federal grant programs like Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response, or SAFER, and the Assistance to Firefighters Grant, according to Sen. Tom Carper's office. These grants totaled nearly $4 million in funding to Delaware outfits in fiscal years 2021 and 2022.

They were about three months away from statutory sunset. The bipartisan legislation, authored by Sen. Carper and three fellow lawmakers, now heads to the president's desk, likely securing funding for another five years.

The United States Fire Administration will also see new appropriations, per S.870, at $95 million for each of fiscal years 2024 through 2028, to provide fire training, coordination and other resources. That's nearly a $20 million increase. The grants included in the reauthorization package can help career, combination or all-volunteer departments with equipment, training and other needs for emergency response.

The bill also includes the ADVANCE Act, legislation aiming to boost development and deployment of new carbon-free nuclear technologies.

Sen. Tom Carper announces funding to replenish Delaware's bay beaches in Slaughter Beach May 13, 2024.

Fresh off his own vote, Carper sees the bill as guarding basic quality of life. But also, doing so in an unpredictable climate crisis.

"Quality of life is also the ability to respond to disasters, in many cases, natural disasters," said the Democrat finishing his final year in the Senate. "That could be lightning strikes; when the area is just incredibly dry; it could be floods that flow from, not just tornadoes and hurricanes, but just from regular high rising seawaters. And again, there's responsibility to deal with these threats."

And Delaware fire and emergency departments, the co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus said, need to be ready for it.

Mental Health & Resiliency Program: How this new program aims to support the mental health of Delaware firefighters and EMTs

'They expect the best'

Wilmington Fire Department Chief John Looney marches with other city firefighters ahead of a procession of fire apparatus during the 57th Annual Wilmington Jaycees Christmas Parade Saturday, Nov. 27, 2021.

Wilmington Fire Chief John Looney would agree.

"Our citizens, the residents, the business owners, the large corporations  I mean, they expect only one thing," he said. "They expect the best. They expect when there's emergency, at their house, their business, whatever the case may be, they expect fully trained personnel, fully equipped personnel, arriving, assessing and mitigating the situation."

Operating both a fire and emergency medical services department only grows more challenging, he said. Looney doesn't lead a volunteer company, though they make up the majority in Delaware. However, he sees volunteer numbers strain in the county, while everything else gets more expensive. Grants, he said, are pivotal.

"They're for our operations. They're for our fire prevention. They're crucial," he said, particularly highlighting Assistance to Firefighters grants, while SAFER grants tend to help departments secure personnel. "If these AFGs were to go away, and the SAFER grants... I mean, that's going to be a hard hit for departments everywhere."

Such support appears to be on the mind in state government as well.

A fire helmet sits on a the ledge of a Claymont Fire Company truck on Monday, May 20, 2024.

Firefighter fees: Fire protection fee could be imposed on Delaware properties. Heres what that means

In response to the increased awareness of first responder burnout and mental health struggles, the Delaware State Fire Prevention Commission launched a Mental Health & Resiliency Program this year.

And after years of financial strife, a new bill passed through General Assembly will enable legislation for counties to impose a fee on properties to assist the states struggling fire departments. House Bill 127 would give Delawares three counties the option to enforce a fire protection fee on properties, as previously reported, excluding state-owned properties and others tax-exempt. It awaits Gov. John Carneys signature.

Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect families and communities across the First State and the country," Sen. Carper said of the federal legislation. "It is our duty as lawmakers to provide the critical tools and training they need to effectively do their jobs, and Im proud to have led the effort to send the bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act to President Bidens desk."

Got a tip? Contact Kelly Powers at kepowers@gannett.com or (231) 622-2191, and follow her on X @kpowers01.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Federal grant funding for Delaware fire departments to avoid sunset
Felipe VI of Spain more popular than any politician, poll says

King Felipe and Queen Letizia flanked by their daughters, princesses Leonor and Infanta Sofia - Europa Press via Getty Images

Spains King Felipe is more popular than any of the countrys politicians as he works to distance himself from his fathers scandalous past.

Felipe VI has risen to an approval rating of 6.6 out of 10, significantly higher than any of the party leaders, none of whom scored above five  or have done in recent years in similar such polls.

Only Felipes eldest daughter, Princess Leonor, rivalled him in the popularity stakes by matching his score. The 18-year-old heir to the throne has played a more prominent public role over the past year in between training stints in the army.

The adoration of Felipe comes as he works to repair the image of the monarchy.

King Juan Carlos, who scored a lowest rating of 2.9, went into self-imposed exile in the United Arab Emirates in 2020 after Spanish prosecutors investigated his involvement in alleged financial wrongdoings.

The scandals renewed a debate over whether Spain should have a monarchy.

Felipe has since removed Juan Carlos, whom the public has also not forgiven for his many affairs, from the royal houses payroll to help rebuild the Spanish crowns image.

The poll, carried out by IMOP Insights for the online newspaper El Confidencial, showed other senior monarchs were also more popular than politicians.

King Felipes mother, Queen Sofia, scored an approval rating of 6.0, the same as the kings younger daughter, also called Sofia. Felipes queen consort, Letizia, scored 5.9.

Sense of integrity

Speaking at a celebratory lunch in Madrids royal palace on Wednesday, King Felipe said he had been guided by a sense of integrity during his decade on the throne.

This means being faithful to our principles and values in all of our decisions [and] accepting the personal cost of what that can lead to, the 56-year-old king said.

In 2020, Felipe stopped paying his father money from the royal household budget and said he would not accept any financial inheritance from Juan Carlos, after it emerged that the former king had named his son as heir to offshore accounts.

King Felipe also stripped his sister Cristina of the title of Duchess of Palma when she was put on trial for tax fraud, although she was eventually acquitted.

Polling consistently shows that around 40 per cent of Spaniards favour a republic and that there is less enthusiasm for the monarchy among younger people.

A survey by polling company Sigma Dos for the newspaper El Mundo this week showed that two-thirds of Spaniards think King Felipe represents the country well.

But a large majority think that Felipes efforts to clean up the monarchys image in Spain are still insufficient; 39 per cent recognised that the removal of privileges from Juan Carlos and Cristina had helped to regenerate the Crown but were not enough, while 33 per cent said these moves had not been effective at all.

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The fight for abortion rights gets an unlikely messenger in swing state Pennsylvania: Sen. Bob Casey

FILE - Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., smiles while speaking during an event at AFSCME Council 13 offices, March 14, 2024, in Harrisburg, Pa. Abortion rights, suddenly a potent political force in the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to leave such matters to the states, have found an unlikely champion in swing-state Pennsylvania. Casey, who will appear on the November ballot beneath President Joe Biden as they both seek reelection, has begun doing something he's never done before: attacking an opponent over abortion rights. (AP Photo/Marc Levy, File)

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Abortion rights, suddenly a potent political force in the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to leave such matters to the states, have found an unlikely champion in swing state Pennsylvania.

Sen. Bob Casey, who will appear on the November ballot beneath President Joe Biden as the Democrats both seek reelection, has begun doing something he's never done before: attacking an opponent over abortion rights.

The senator, who once called himself a pro-life Democrat, accuses Republican challenger David McCormick in a new TV ad of wanting to make abortion illegal even in cases of rape and incest  a characterization McCormick says is wrong.

Speaking to an online gathering of the progressive womens advocacy group Red Wine & Blue earlier this month, Casey warned that electing a Republican president and a new Republican Senate majority could result in bans on the abortion pill and contraception, even in Democratic-controlled states  or purple states like Pennsylvania  where abortion remains legal.

You could have blue-state impact whether its a blue-state ban that affects contraception or whether its a blue-state ban when it comes to abortion because of mifepristone, Casey said.

That's quite a reframing for Casey, who like his father and Biden comes from an Irish Catholic family in Scranton. His father, who was a two-term governor of Pennsylvania, opposed abortion rights and signed legislation restricting abortion that spawned the landmark 1992 case Planned Parenthood v. Casey.

Sen. Casey, whose race is seen as crucial to Democrats' effort to defend their razor-thin Senate majority, says the Supreme Court's decision to strip womens constitutional protections for abortion changed everything in the abortion debate and prompted a pro-life Democrat to support access to abortion.

Casey has suggested that pro-life never meant a complete ban on abortion without exception, at least to him. After the court's forthcoming decision had been leaked, Casey supported Democrats' legislation to keep abortion legal to the Roe v. Wade standard of barring abortion only after viability, around 24 weeks.

Everyone in the Senate had a choice to make, Casey told The Associated Press. You had to decide, basically, whether youd support banning abortion or not. And that was a choice you had to make. And the choice was also a choice about legislation. ... And I decided that I would support advancing that bill and thereby not being in the ban-abortion column.

He had broken with Democrats in the past in supporting bills to ban abortions after 20 weeks and to block federal funding for abortion.

But he also had emphasized reducing abortions through services that prevent unwanted pregnancies and help pregnant women and young mothers, a reason he has given for backing federal funding for Planned Parenthood.

When the court overturned Roe v. Wade, Casey slammed it as ripping away a constitutional right and a dangerous decision that wouldnt stop abortions but would put womens lives at risk.

Democrats have been happy to embrace Caseys recalibrated position.

I dont believe he ever wanted those (pro-life) beliefs to ever stand in the way of access to abortion, and now his position matters more than it did just two years ago, said Brittany Crampsie, a Democratic strategist.

Mary Ziegler, a law professor at the University of California, Davis, who studies the history and politics of the abortion debate, said she thinks Casey had begun drifting from the anti-abortion movement well before the court overturned Roe v. Wade.

He was probably both pulled by a Democratic Party becoming more supportive of abortion rights and pushed by an anti-abortion movement becoming more aligned with Republicans and Christian conservatives, Ziegler said.

If you take politics out of it, its possible that Casey has one of those purple positions on abortion that doesn't tend to track with what either movement is doing," Ziegler said.

Many Americans hold middle-of-the-road beliefs on abortion, Ziegler said, and Caseys stance isnt out of step with many lay Catholics. According to Pew Research Center surveys, 56% of U.S. Catholics say abortion should be legal in all or most cases.

Politically speaking, abortion rights has been a winner on the ballot since the court decision, even in red states such as Ohio, Kansas and Kentucky, where the outcomes favored keeping abortion access legal.

McCormick attacks Casey from the right. He accuses Casey of wanting to allow abortion up until the moment of birth, a refrain Republicans are using to attack Democrats' legislation, which allows an exception for abortions after fetal viability in extremely rare situations when a doctor determines the life or health of the mother is at risk.

Democrats say doctors  and not the government  should be making such decisions.

Meanwhile, McCormick says he opposes abortion, with three exceptions  rape, incest and to save the life of the mother  and not just one exception, as Casey contends. McCormick also says he wouldnt vote for a federal abortion ban.

Casey, now in his eighth statewide campaign, has never previously wielded abortion rights as a weapon. He has been on defense, however.

In the 2002 Democratic primary for governor, Casey told a radio interviewer that he favored one exception, to save the life of the mother. But, he said, if the Supreme Court were to overturn Roe v. Wade then he, if elected governor, would sign legislation with all three exceptions, including rape and incest, and it would have the effect of reducing the number of abortions in the state.

Casey ultimately lost to Ed Rendell, who received support from the National Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League, which ran ads against Casey because of his opposition to abortion rights.

In Senate races, Caseys Republican opponents have tried to poke holes in his pro-life" bona fides by pointing out that he opposed proposals to halt federal payments to Planned Parenthood.

Casey in 2006 was first recruited by national Democrats to run when he still wore the label of pro-life Democrat. He hasnt faced a serious primary challenger in his four campaigns for the Senate.

Republicans frame his evolution on the issue as pure politics. They say he changed his position to survive the partys leftward drift and never truly opposed abortion, like his father did.

I dont know how you go from defending life to the ad hes running against Dave McCormick, said Matt Beynon, a Republican strategist who worked on Lou Barlettas losing campaign against Casey in 2018.

Democratic strategists insist that Caseys evolution is natural and reflects a generational shift in which abortion is discussed alongside health care and contraception.

Christine Jacobs, who founded Represent PA, an organization to help elect Democratic women to Pennsylvania's Legislature, said Casey has spent years of thinking about it and talking about it with his staff.

Still, Democratic strategists are stumped by the question of whether Casey could have been the partys unquestioned nominee in 2024 had he supported a ban when the partys activists were mobilizing over abortion rights.

Its an academic question now. But Jacobs  who, like Casey, grew up Catholic  thinks there would have been sufficient outrage.

I think he would have had to pull out, Jacobs said. At least, Id like to think that.

___

Associated Press reporter Mary Clare Jalonick in Washington contributed to this report. Follow Marc Levy at twitter.com/timelywriter.

___

Follow the APs coverage of the 2024 election at https://apnews.com/hub/election-2024.
Is Block Island ferry safe? After weekend fight, here's what police are saying

The weekend news headline sounded familiar: Seven people arrested as Narragansett police dealt with a large fight at the dock for Block Island ferries.

In 2022, brawling on a ferry had led state police to board one vessel and arrest seven people in the middle of the boat's transit from Block Island.

That incident seemed to factor into some of the reaction online to Saturday's news.

"We live in a day and age of social media," Narragansett Police Chief Sean Corrigan said Tuesday.

"It's such a challenge dealing with this," he added.

Both Corrigan and New Shoreham Police Chief Paul Deane say that security around the docks on their respective sides of the crossing remains sufficient.

"This is a very safe place," said Deane, referring to the Block Island side. "It's safe to bring the family and it's safe to travel back and forth."

The Block Island Ferry pulling into Galilee.

"It really is," he said.

Said Corrigan: "We didn't have an arrest last year at all."

He was referring to the absence of arrests by Narragansett police at the Galilee ferry dock in 2023.

During the period between June 1, 2018, and the end of last summer, Narragansett police made a total of 10 arrests involving the ferries, said Corrigan, who provided the information to members of the Town Council on Monday.

Four of those 10 arrest arrests involved disorderly conduct. Two others involved people wanted on warrants for conduct that took place elsewhere.

One person was arrested for jumping off the ferry and another for indecent exposure, Corrigan said.

Police officers on duty at ferry landings

Near the ferry slip in Narragansett, a uniformed constable or a police officer is present through the day until the last ferry comes in for the night.

A 50-cent landing fee attached to each ferry ticket goes toward the cost of the detail.

In New Shoreham, which also receives a landing fee, the town typically has two officers near the docks from 5 p.m. until the last ferry departs.

"We have plenty of presence at the ferry," said Deane.

Not that brawls are common. Sometimes people can get heated when they haven't made proper arrangements for a ferry ride home at the end of the day and the boat is full, said Deane.

The view as you arrive at Old Harbor on Block Island aboard the ferry.

Maritime Security Act

Another layer of security comes into play during the transit and in the port, too, according to William McCombe, the director of security for Interstate Navigation, the company that runs the ferry.

The ferry service is regulated both by the Coast Guard and the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission.

Many security and safety aspects of the operation fall under the Maritime Security Act, passed in 2004 at the outset of the post 9/11 era.

Under the security act, the ferry service files a five-year security plan that accounts for drills, training and capabilities for handling a range of emergencies, McCombe said.

On Tuesday, he said, the ferry service ran a planned drill in concert with an inspection by the Coast Guard.

Uniformed Coast Guard Sea Marshals sometimes ride the ferry.

Coast Guard personnel on their own vessel sometimes escort ferries and the ferry service also hires security officers, McCombe said.

Their presence increased following the 2022 brawl, McCombe said.

Members of the Transportation Security Administration's Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response Team also ride the ferry at times, McCombe said.

McCombe said the ferry has obligations, as an entity regulated by the utilities commission, that are similar to a public bus.

"We don't have the luxury of being as selective as some people would like us to have," he said.

Ferry service doesn't sell drinks on late-day return boats

During the full-service summer season, the ferry service declines to sell alcoholic beverages on the last two ferries returning to Galilee from Block Island, McCombe said. The summer-season schedule was not yet in effect Saturday but would be on Wednesday's Juneteenth holiday, he said.

2 more arrested in Saturday's strife

An investigation into the fight Saturday continues, Corrigan said.

Two more people, in addition to the seven arrested on Saturday, now face charges.

Regulatory oversight provides authorities with other avenues for adding additional security and safety measures on the ferries if conditions in the future should warrant that, Corrigan said.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Despite Saturday arrests, police chiefs say Block Island ferry is safe
PROVIDENCE  Tensions had never been higher at the Rhode Island State House.

As temperatures rose that June, so did tempers in the state Senate.

Fistfights broke out. Then a riot.

There was even a poison gas "bomb" the governor believed was meant to suffocate the lieutenant governor.

As minority Democrats tried to take over the Senate, Republicans fled the state. And government ground to a halt.

The Evening Bulletin, sister of The Providence Journal, on June 19, 1924.

What was to blame for the turmoil?

The stage was set on Nov. 8, 1922, by a simple sentence in The Providence Journal:

"The Republicans control the State Senate by one vote."

At the time, the state's 39 cities and towns had one senator each. The chamber was split  Republicans controlling 20 seats while 19 were held either by Democrats or independents, who would vote with Democrats.

Perhaps more ominously, voters elected Democrats to both governor and lieutenant governor  who at the time presided over the Senate, giving Democrats the belief they could take over, even with the Senate majority.

The big beef between the two parties at the time was that each municipality elected one senator. That meant power was concentrated in small, rural towns, giving West Greenwich, New Shoreham and even Little Compton the same representation as Providence.

Small towns could easily band together to outvote the cities where the vast majority of Rhode Islanders lived.

In 1924, the Democrats in the Senate decided to force a change by finding sneaking through a vote for a Constitutional Convention to change the way senators were elected.

With Democrat Felix Toupin presiding over the Senate, the Democrats launched a filibuster. Here's how it worked:

Toupin would recognize only Democrats to speak, and they would talk for hours on end, sometimes reading from works of literature or even encyclopedias. The goal was to exhaust the Republican senators. If even one of them left the floor, the Democrats, with the lieutenant governor to break ties, would have enough votes to push through their agenda.

Both sides held firm for months, but stamina  and patience  started to fray in June.

The riot

On June 17, 1924, as hundreds of spectators filled the Senate chamber and gallery, the Republicans saw an opportunity to break the Democratic filibuster.

Republican Sen. Arthur A. Sherman, president pro tempore, tried to start that day's session before Toupin entered the chamber. Sherman climbed onto the rostrum and gaveled the body to order, ordering clerk James E. Dooley to call the roll.

"He will not call the roll," Sen. Robert W. Quinn, of West Warwick, interrupted. "I will not let him."

Quinn went to the desk where Dooley worked and either tried to snatch the roll away from him or shoved him, depending on who gave the account.

Dooley punched Quinn in the eye, blackening it, and Quinn hit the floor with a thud.

That was all it took.

In an instant, everyone in the room, Republicans and Democrats, senators and spectators  even women, the papers of the day pointed out  broke into a free-for-all. "Women joined in the battle, throwing themselves upon the struggling group of men, pulling hair, scratching and clawing their way forward irrespective of whom they attacked," the Providence County and Olneyville Times reported.

Toupin, who was in his office across the hall, entered the chamber, went up to the rostrum and held out his hand toward Sherman, who surrendered the gavel.

A moment later, Gov. William S. Flynn also entered the chamber, and the riot quickly dissipated.

But the animosity would fester.

The Evening Bulletin's front page on June 20, 1924.

The violence doesn't end there

The day after the riot, as the filibuster continued, Quinn would be the focus of further violence.

As he rested in a room next to the Senate chamber, Quinn exchanged words with John F. Letendre, of Woonsocket, a Republican, before talking with another legislator.

"I dont care what he thinks about me," Quinn told the third man.

Letendre strode angrily toward Quinn and said, "Ill punch your face, you dirty little [expletive]."

"No you won't," Quinn retorted.

But Letendre did, and Quinn fought back, dislodging one of the Woonsocket man's teeth before bystanders separated them.

But what about a bomb?

The Senate stayed in session around the clock until June 19, when what was described by some as a "bromine bomb" went off near Toupin's place on the rostrum.

Not an explosive device, the "bomb" was designed to release poisonous gas bromine into the air.

The Senate session  and the filibuster  quickly came to an end, as the room was cleared.

Governor Flynn issued a statement saying the bomb had been planted to try to suffocate the lieutenant governor.

The Attorney General's Office investigated, and described the bomb as such:

A glass test tube containing liquid bromine held in by a cork stopper treated with paraffin wax. The test tube was wrapped in cotton, secured with elastic bands, and was then wrapped in a handkerchief. also secured with elastic bands.

Several pages of the June 19 Providence Journal were wrapped around the package, which was then placed inside a full copy, plus a couple of pages, of the previous day's Journal.

The poison gas, which was produced when the liquid bromine came into contact with the air, was released by someone stepping on the package, smashing the test tube to bits.

The wrapping of the package was not the only connection to The Providence Journal.

As the lieutenant governor left the rostrum, he told Governor Flynn, who had been in the Senate chamber, "This is a Republican plot to get control of this body," the Evening Tribune reported. "I was informed two hours ago that information had been sent to The Providence Journal to the effect that the crisis in the filibuster would be reached before 8 oclock this morning."

In the Evening Bulletin on the same day of the bomb incident, the Providence Journal Company offered a $1,000 reward  worth more than $18,000 today  for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible.

While the Democrats returned to the Senate and continued their filibuster, the Republicans refused to come back. They even defied arrest warrants, issued under a state law that allowed the governor to compel them to attend a session. The Republicans sent a doctor's note saying they were too sick.

This would not be the final move of this chess game.

The Providence News, a competitor of The Providence Journal and The Evening Bulletin, on June 21, 1924.

The escape

The Republicans knew they couldn't avoid arrest forever, but they were in no hurry to return.

When the Senate convened at 3:36 p.m., Sen. Harry A. Sanderson was the only Republican present and challenged the quorum, officially objecting to business being done without enough senators present, forcing an immediate end to the filibuster.

The Democrats' plan had failed.

Or was there one move left to play?

How did it end?

On June 21, under the guise of a "social note," the front page of the Providence News informed readers that Sen. Willis A. Drew, of Barrington, was spending the weekend in Fall River. It even gave his room number at the Mellen Hotel.

Word quickly spread that Democratic operatives would force enough Republican senators to return to Rhode Island to make up a quorum.

That stopped June 23, when the Evening Bulletin carried a front-page headline: "G.O.P. Senators unite outside state to prevent kidnapping." The entire Republican Senate caucus was staying at the Hotel Bartlett, in Rutland, Massachusetts.

On Dec. 25, the Bulletin reported that Santa found his way to the Hotel Bartlett with news that the Republicans trounced the Democrats in November's election, winning an overwhelming majority with 33 of the 39 Senate seats.

After the New Year, they returned to Rhode Island, where Republicans would control the Senate for another decade.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: The ugliest political fight in Rhode Island happened 100 years ago
Chinese coastguards were pictured wielding axes and knives before a Filipino soldier lost a thumb in the South China Sea.

The soldier was injured after what its military described as intentional-high speed ramming by the China Coast Guard.

This is the latest violence amid heightening tensions over the disputed seas.

China claims 90 per cent of the sea as its own sovereign territory but Taiwan and other Southeast Asian countries contest that.

China and the Philippines have accused each other of provocative action on their territory.

Mondays clash occurred when Chinese boats blocked an attempt to resupply a Filipino outpost with food.

Communications and navigational equipment on a Philippine Navy rigid hull inflatable boat, allegedly destroyed by the Chinese Coast Guard on Monday - Armed Forces of the Philippines

The Second Thomas Shoal, a submerged reef in the Spratly Islands, is part of a territory claimed by several nations.

The Philippines says the shoal falls within its internationally recognized exclusive economic zone and often cites a 2016 international arbitration ruling invalidating Chinas expansive South China Sea claims based on historical grounds.

China also claims it and says the soldiers didnt move out of the way when ordered.

They ignored Chinas repeated solemn warnings  and dangerously approached a Chinese vessel in normal navigation in an unprofessional manner, resulting in a collision.

The Chinese coastguard seized two inflatable boats from the Filipino soldiers before confiscating weapons that were onboard.

Pictures released by the Philippine army show Chinese coastguards threateningly wielding axes, pikes and knives.

Chinese coastguards hold knives and machetes as they approach Philippine troops on Monday - Armed Forces of the Philippines

The soldiers were on their way to the BRP Sierra Madre, a rusty military vessel beached on the Second Thomas Shoal and which Manila keeps manned in order to stake its claim to waters that Beijing claims.

One boat can be seen deflated with a long slash in its side. The communications system and windscreen of the other are smashed, the photos show.

Philippine defence secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr said that his country would resist Chinas dangerous and reckless behaviour which contravenes their statements of good faith and decency.

We will exert our utmost in order to fulfil our sworn mandate to protect our territorial integrity, sovereignty, and sovereign rights, Mr Teodoro said.

After the incident, the US warned that Beijing was engaged in dangerous actions that threatened regional peace and stability.

Washington affirmed its commitment to a mutual defence pact with Manila which extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft  including those of its coastguard  anywhere in the South China Sea, said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.

A Chinese coastguard holds an axe as they approach Philippine troops on Monday - Armed Forces of the Philippines

The incidents have led to fears that the US may be dragged into a war in the region to defend its ally.

In April the Philippines accused Chinas coastguard of harassment and of damaging two of its boats.

The Philippines task force on South China Sea issues said a coastguard ship and a fisheries vessel were damaged by water cannons used by Chinese Coast Guard ships, as the vessels headed to Scarborough Shoal.

Following Mondays attack Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, called Enrique Manalo, the Philippine foreign secretary.

Their discussion followed Chinas dangerous and irresponsible actions to deny the Philippines from executing a lawful maritime operation in the South China Sea on June 17, the State Department said.

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Finn Rock Landing boat launch, more now open to the public

A rendering of what Finn Rock Landing will look like when improvements are completed. The popular recreation area on the McKenzie River will close Oct. 23 until spring while improvements are underway.

Finn Rock Landing on the McKenzie River has re-opened its boat launch, parking lot, and restrooms after months of renovations and improvement projects closed the area to the public.

McKenzie River Trust which owns and manages the property, closed the area in Oct. 2023 for improvements including:

A better road base

Safer traffic flow

Installation of new parking stalls

ADA-accessible walkways

Fencing

Bird-friendly lighting

Picnic tables

Garbage receptacles

The project cost about $850,000 and was funded by grants from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department's Recreational Trails Program, Lane County Parks bond measure and private donations, according to McKenzie River Trust.

The Landing is open year-round for people to access the river and launch non-motorized watercraft. The Trust also plans on replanting the area with native trees and shrubs this Fall.

Haleigh Kochanski is a breaking news and public safety reporter for The Register-Guard. You may reach her at HKochanski@registerguard.com

This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Finn Rock Landing boat launch reopened to the public Lane County
Fire breaks out at Pier 80 in San Francisco with lots of smoke

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  Crews are responding to a fire at Pier 80 Tuesday afternoon in San Francisco, the San Francisco Fire Department said on X. The fire, located at Pier 80 and Cesar Chavez, is not currently threatening any buildings.

However, the fire is producing lots of smoke, SFFD said. The public is asked to avoid the area as firefighters respond.

SFFD posted a photo of the scene at Pier 80 (see below).

Fire breaks out at Pier 80 in San Francisco on Tuesday afternoon (Image courtesy of PG&E).

This story will be updated.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Fire crews working to restore power after manhole fire in West Roxbury

Fire crews in Boston are responding to a manhole fire that has taken the power out to parts of West Roxbury.

The fire happened at Centre St & Hastings St in the West Roxbury neighborhood of Boston.

Eversource is on the scene working to restore power

Additional information was not available.

Engine53 & Ladder25 are tending to a manhole fire that has power out at Centre St & Hastings St in W.Roxbury neighborhood. @EversourceMA is on scene to handle restoring power pic.twitter.com/5rPicUjdiT  Boston Fire Dept. (@BostonFire) June 19, 2024

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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SINGAPORE, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chen Wenqing, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, met with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong here on Wednesday and attended the fourth China-Singapore Social Governance Forum.

During the meeting, Chen said that Chinese and Singaporean leaders elevated bilateral relations to an all-round high-quality future-oriented partnership last year, drawing the blueprint for the two countries in the new era.

China and Singapore continue to deepen high-quality cooperation in joint construction of the Belt and Road and jointly safeguard multilateralism and free trade, he said.

Such efforts not only promote economic and social progress in the two countries but also advance peace and stability, as well as development and prosperity in the region, Chen noted.

China is willing to work with Singapore to promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, and implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, Chen said.

China is also willing to make joint efforts with Singapore to improve in-depth and practical cooperation in the construction of the Belt and Road, and deepen cooperation in law enforcement, security, and social governance, Chen noted.

For his part, Wong said that Singapore and China have maintained close and friendly relations for a long time and the all-round high-quality future-oriented partnership has achieved continuous progress.

He expressed the hope to deepen and expand practical cooperation in various fields with China and jointly safeguard regional peace and security.

While delivering a speech at the fourth China-Singapore Social Governance Forum, Chen said effective social governance in accordance with the law is a common issue faced by all countries across the world.

He said China will steadfastly follow the path of socialist rule of law with Chinese characteristics to consolidate fundamentals, stabilize expectations, deliver long-term benefits, and build a modern socialist country. 
MOSCOW (Reuters) -A blaze caused by a Ukrainian drone strike on an oil terminal in southern Russia has been raging for more than a day and a half despite the efforts of firefighters, the regional governor said on Wednesday.

Several oil storage tanks in the town of Azov caught fire after a drone attack early on Tuesday that a Ukrainian intelligence source told Reuters was conducted by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).

Vasily Golubev, governor of the Rostov region, wrote on Telegram that emergency services had been unable to extinguish the flames as of Tuesday afternoon as the second storage tank had been depressurised.

Azov has two oil product terminals, DonTerminal and Azovproduct, which handled a total of about 220,000 tons of fuel for export during the period from January to May 2024.

Ukraine has often said that targeting Russia's energy, military and transport infrastructure undermines Moscow's war effort.

(Reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin and Maxim RodionovEditing by Lincoln Feast)
A boat that ran aground this afternoon on the Northside of Vilano Inlet took on water and began sinking. People on the boat immediately sent a distress signal.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

St. Johns County Fire Rescue was the first on scene. They located two people about 200 yards from the boat with the current pulling them out to sea. Both were wearing life jackets when they jumped into the water. Fire Rescue said this helped crews locate them quickly in rough seas.

A boat with two people onboard takes on water at the Vilano Inlet.

A member of the St. Johns County Marine Rescue Division witnessed a boat run aground at Vilano Inlet on Wednesday.

SJCFR Watercraft 9 was the first on scene a located 2 boaters in the water.

St. Johns County Sheriff's Office Air and Marine Units, Florida Fish and Wildlife, and U.S. Coast Guard Station Mayport all helped in the rescue.

Two boaters rescued on the inlet were brought to the Vilano Boat Ramp for further medical treatment.

At the boat ramp, the boaters declined further medical treatment and transport to a hospital.

SJCFR Watercraft 9 found two boaters around 200 yards from their vessel after it began taking on water and sinking.

SJCFR said both boaters were wearing their lifejackets when rescue crews found them in the water.

The two boaters were taken to the Vilano Boat Ramp by St. Augustine Fire Department Marine 49 where both declined further medical treatment.

St. Johns County Sheriffs Office Air and Marine Units, Florida Fish and Wildlife, and U.S. Coast Guard Station Mayport all assisted in rescue efforts.

This afternoon, the SJSO Air and Marine Units responded to a 55-foot boat that ran aground near the Vilano Inlet. SJSO and @SJCFireRescue Marine Units rescued two passengers from the sinking boat. Nobody was injured. @MyFWC is investigating the accident. pic.twitter.com/T2VtRRwgoY  St. Johns County Sheriff's Office (@TeamSJSO) June 19, 2024

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At least one person has died in the New Mexico wildfires in Ruidoso and more than 1,400 structures have been lost in the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire, authorities said.

Patrick Pearson, 60, was found dead on the side of the road near the Swiss Chalet Motel, located at 1451 N Mechem Road on June 18. He had sustained numerous burns from the fire, where he succumbed to his injuries, according to New Mexico State Police.

The South Fork Fire is at 16,335 acres, while the Salt Fire is at 7,071 acres, and both remain at 0% containment, according to an update by the Village of Ruidoso on Wednesday, June 19.

Patrick Pearson

More: New Mexico wildfire map: Track growing fires as Ruidoso area residents forced to evacuate

Ruidoso fire cause

Smoke rises from a wildfire in Ruidoso, New Mexico, on June 17, 2024. One death and more than 1,400 structures have been lost in the South Fork and the Salt fires near the mountain resort village.

Both fires were sparked on tribal land on Monday, June 17.

Fire growth has been rapid, according to the Village of Ruidoso, and the cause of the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire remains under investigation.

An estimated 8,000 residents were forced to evacuate Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs, and roads to the mountain resort community remain closed.

More: Rain expected as South Fork Fire and Salt Fire continue to grow near Ruidoso

A look back at McBride Fire in 2022

An elderly couples remains were found April 13, 2022, during the McBride Fire in Ruidoso. The two were in their home in a mountainous community charred by the fire when they died.

The McBride Fire also forced the evacuation of 4,500 people and torched 6,159 acres, according to the Wildfire Agency, a governmental organization.

More: South Fork Fire continues to burn near Ruidoso. Here's what the fire looks like in NM

Smoke rises as the South Fork Fire burned most of the structures in Cedar Creek after mass evacuations of the village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, U.S. June 18, 2024. REUTERS/Kaylee Greenlee Beal

Donations for Ruidoso

The Community Foundation of Lincoln County, a nonprofit, is collecting monetary funds for those impacted by the wildfires through its Shelter Fund.

The Mescalero Apache Tribe is collecting monetary donations through a GoFundMe page. The funds will go directly to emergency response efforts, according to the tribe.

Donations are also being collected in El Paso and Las Cruces for those impacted by the wildfires:

New Mexico State University : Gerald Thomas Hall; 940 College Drive Room 221  NMSU is collecting bottled water, non-perishable food, clothing, shoes, toiletries, and pet food at two sites until 9 a.m., June 24.

Otero County Extension Office : 401 Fairgrounds Road, Alamogordo, New Mexico

Casa Nissan : 5855 Montana Ave.  The car dealership is looking to fill a truck with donations at its showroom to take to evacuees and first responders. Items include bottled water, snacks, and toiletries.

Anime Fest : El Paso Convention Center  The festival is taking donations of food, clothing and other essentials on June 22 and 23 for those impacted by the fire. Items can be taken to the El Paso Convention Center.

Law Offices of Wyatt Underwood : 705 Texas Ave.  The lawyers are gathering cases of water and Gatorade, in addition to ice chests for fire crews and evacuees. Trucks will leave with donations at 9 a.m., Thursday, June 20.

Keller Williams: 6006 N. Mesa St. Ste. 1100, 12040 Tierra Este Road, Ste. 206, 1555 S. Telshor Blvd. 300 A Realtors are collecting water, clothes, toiletries, baby products, batteries, undergarments and more.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: South Fork Fire, Salt Fire: 1 dead, about 1,400 structures destroyed
A man who shot three people and robbed an adult arcade in Charlotte three years ago was sentenced to more than 34 years in prison this week.

The U.S. Attorneys Office in Charlotte said Wednesday that Robert Lee Barringer, 49, was sentenced after being found guilty of two charges in connection with the robbery, which happened on July 26, 2021.

The robbery happened at Fish House North on N. Tryon Street near E. Sugar Creek Road. Police said Barringer walked up to the front door wearing a hooded jacket and mask, waited for one of the victims to open the door for him, and then went in and shot two other people.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Former employee accused of shooting 3 during robbery at Charlotte business

Detectives said he then forcibly moved one of those victims against their will and stole several items from them and the business before running away. Barringer stole about $3,500, authorities said.

According to prosecutors, Barringer had been fired from the arcade a month earlier.

Barringer was sentenced to a total of 412 months in prison, plus five years of supervised release, federal authorities said.

(WATCH: Victims family holds on to hope 1 year after deadly arcade robbery in Salisbury)
CHICAGO  Nearly 300 firefighters responded Tuesday evening to a fire at a pallet warehouse in the West Town neighborhood that quickly grew to four alarms and a hazardous materials response.

The commercial building near West Hubbard Street and North Damen Avenue was deemed a total loss, Chief Jim McDonough of the Chicago Fire Departments 1st District said after firefighters gained control of the blaze.

These guys worked their butts off, he said.

The fire at Commercial Pallets, Inc. began shortly before 6 p.m., nearly three hours after the family-owned companys 18 employees had left for the day. It remained unclear late Tuesday as to how the roughly 20,000 pallets inside ignited, but their fuel and the days high heat and strong winds made for challenging conditions and prompted the need for the massive response.

It was very warm out tonight so we had to switch guys up here, rotate them to get them checked out in our rehab area with refreshments, McDonough said. We take their blood pressure to make sure theyre all OK.

Two firefighters suffered minor injuries but would fully recover, he said.

7-year-old boy shot on Near West Side, later dies at hospital

McDonough said there was minor damage to adjacent buildings, adding that the hazardous materials response was called mostly because of the materials at a nearby company.

They have propane. They do a lot of welding. Theres fuel in there. It was singeing on there. Theres some impingement on the building, but thank God we were able to stop it there, he said.

The fire impacted service on Metras Union Pacific West, Milwaukee District West, Milwaukee District North and North Central Service trains. Chicagos Office of Emergency Management & Communications said the fire damaged one of the train tracks. Service was restored late Tuesday.

WGN was told that the smoke from the fire could be seen from northwest suburban Schaumburg.

McDonough said firefighters would stay at the location through the night to take care of spots that continued to smolder.

Commercial Pallets, Inc. has been in business since 1978.

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.
Firefighters who responded to the deadly house fire that killed six and injured five others are processing what they saw two days later.

Channel 2s Steve Gehlbach spoke with the crew and Coweta County Fire Chief Robby Flanagan who said this was the largest loss of life in his 28 years with the department.

The fire happened Monday morning at a house off Macedonia Road. The fire started on the far side of the property. When firefighters arrived, five people had escaped, but six others were trapped.

When we heard there was six people inside, only thing were thinking about is their life safetywe were going into get em, Capt. Matt Williams told Gehlbach.

They used a ladder to get up to a back window and used thermal imaging cameras to search in the darkness.

The smoke was banked all the way down to the floor, couldnt see, it was hot, Williams said.

Just before the last person got out, the fire made it to the room where we found those victims, Flanagan said.

RELATED STORIES

Chief Flanagan says it took only eight minutes from the time his crew located the first trapped victim to get the last one out. All were unconscious and crews immediately started resuscitation efforts.

But the six victims died: three adults and three boys ages 6, 12 and 13.

Its been a tough 48 hours since battling the fire. Firefighters have sat down to talk through it, having counseling available and thank the community for reaching out.

But most importantly, they have each other because they have to keep working, ready for the next call.

Our number one goal is to save lives. Without these people behind us, that wouldnt happen, Flanagan said.

The Georgia fire marshals office is still investigating the cause, but is expected to release its preliminary findings Wednesday afternoon or Thursday.

Donations for the family can be made at the Newnan Police Department, Macedonia Church or through a GoFundMe for the survivors here.

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Are fireworks legal where I live? Heres where theyre allowed in the Sacramento area

(FOX40.COM)  As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, it is important to remember that some counties in the Sacramento area have different regulations regarding fireworks.

Some counties prohibit fireworks everywhere while other counties allow fireworks in certain communities.

In places where fireworks are allowed in California, only Safe and Sane fireworks are legal and should be labeled. Illegal fireworks are those that fly or explode.

Using illegal fireworks could result in fines.

Here are the rules and regulations for fireworks for communities in the Sacramento area.

Sacramento County

Fireworks are allowed throughout Sacramento County. However, it is unlawful to possess or sell Safe and Sane fireworks without a business license and retail sales are only allowed from temporary fireworks stands, according to Sacramento Metro Fire.

In the unincorporated area of Sacramento County, officials said fireworks can only be purchased between noon on June 28 to 9 p.m. on July 4, and they can only be lit up on July 4 from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

There are similar restrictions in Citrus Heights and Rancho Cordova.

Need to report illegal fireworks? This app can help and heres how it works

San Joaquin County

All fireworks are prohibited, including Safe and Sane, in the unincorporated areas of San Joaquin County.

Fireworks are only allowed in the cities of Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, Tracy and Ripon, according to the county.

El Dorado County

All fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in El Dorado County, according to the El Dorado County Fire Protection District.

Residents of three Placer County cities to vote on transportation sales tax

Placer County

Fireworks are allowed in Roseville, Rocklin and Lincoln, but are not allowed in the community of Granite Bay.

Fireworks are not permitted anywhere in the unincorporated areas of Placer County except when approved by the county and executed by a pyrotechnic vendor licensed by the California State Marshal, according to the county.

Yolo County

The city of Davis doesnt allow the use or discharge of fireworks, according to city regulations.

Safe and Sane fireworks are allowed in the cities of West Sacramento, Woodland and Winters.

Beloved Lake Tahoe destination to soon require reservations

Solano County

All fireworks are illegal in the cities of Vacaville and Fairfield, but the sale, possession and usage of Safe and Sane fireworks are allowed in Dixon.

Amador County

Safe and Sane fireworks may be sold and used within the city limits of Jackson, Sutter Creek, Ione and Plymouth.

Fireworks are not legal and cant be sold or used in Amador City or any of the unincorporated areas of the county.

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 FOX40.
William Goines, the man credited with being the first Black Navy SEAL in the modern SEAL team era, passed away Monday, June 10, the U.S. Naval Institute confirmed. He was 88 years old.

Born in 1936, Goines childhood in Lockland, Ohio, was spent in a segregated community where the towns lone public pool may as well have been a myth, Goines told the Cincinnati-based Enquirer in 2016.

We were never allowed to swim in that pool, he said. When integration came to the area, the way I understand it, they filled the pool in with rocks and gravel so nobody could swim in it.

Yet the Ohio native was drawn to the water. Inspired to join the Navy after watching the film The Frogmen  about underwater demolition operations during World War II  Goines enlisted in 1955 at the age of 19.

My fate was sealed right there, Goines recalled of the movie. Thats exactly what I wanted to do.

Yet race once again almost kept Goines from his calling.

They tracked all African Americans to go into the steward rating, which was waiting on officers, cooking for officers, he told the Enquirer. They tried to track me into that, but I had a guy in my hometown in Lockland who said, Whatever you do, dont accept a school for stewards because all youre going to be is a servant for officers.

He took his friends advice and, after an 11-month tour in Malta, Goines was among the first group chosen to serve on the newly established SEAL teams. Of the 80 men selected upon the official 1962 inception of the teams, Goines was the only Black man.

(Screenshot/X/U.S. Naval Institute)

Although Fred Tiz Morrison is often credited with being the nations first Black Navy SEAL  Morrison served in the Navys underwater demolition teams during WWII and Korea  Goines has the distinction of being the first Black Navy SEAL as the SEAL teams are known today.

Albeit forever tight-lipped on the specifics of his missions, Goines was selected to be one of the first to land in Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis, recalling, We were on ships just sailing around the Cuban country waiting to make a landing there.

Goines went on to serve three tours in Vietnam with SEAL teams before serving five years with the Chuting Stars, a Navy Parachute Demonstration Team.

We jumped out of everything, he told the Enquirer. We even jumped out of balloons in France and Belgium, just experimenting.

After 32 years of service, Goines retired in 1987 as a master chief petty officer. His many commendations include the Bronze Star, the Navy Commendation Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, a Combat Action Ribbon, and the Presidential Unit Citation.

Following his retirement, Goines remained devoted to his nation and community, first working as the police chief in the Portsmouth, Virginia, school system for more than a decade, and later volunteering to help recruit minorities into the SEALs, according to the Virginian-Pilot.

Reflecting on his life in 2016, Goines stated that despite myriad challenges  including prostate cancer possibly linked to Agent Orange  Ive enjoyed my life immensely. Of all the things that Ive been through, I dont regret anything.

Goines will be laid to rest on June 21 at Bank Street Memorial Baptist Church in Norfolk, Virginia.
The site of the first free Black town in the U.S. is being rebuilt near St. Augustine

It all started as a term paper.

In the mid-1980s, then-University of Florida graduate student Jane Landers hit the archives to research something for a class assignment. There, she stumbled upon something rather unique: an Underground Railroad that went south to Florida as far back as 1687. Landers was baffled and knew the subject needed more scholarly attention.

I care about what kids think of themselves and I dont want every child to think their whole background is getting off barefoot from the slave ships, Landers said. There were all these other kinds of experiences; there were free people.

What Landers ultimately discovered was Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose, better known as Fort Mose, the first town for free Black people in what would become the United States of America. Established in 1738, the town sat just a few miles north of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the country, until the Spanish sold Florida to the British in 1763. And while this history lay dormant for years until the mid-80s, its importance to not only Florida but this country will be enshrined forever once the reconstruction of the fort is finished in 2025.

We decided to reconstruct the 1738 fort because that was the first site of freedom, said Julia Gill Woodward, the CEO of the Florida State Parks Foundation, a nonprofit thats helping to oversee Fort Moses resurrection.

Without Landers, the reconstruction might not be possible. It was Landers who brought the records she discovered to her UF professor Kathleen Deagan, an archaeologist who commissioned two digs on the site where remnants such as musket balls, ceramic wears and even a handmade medal were found. Soon after, Fort Mose became part of the Florida State Parks system, was added to the National Register of Historic Places and a museum was built on the site. In the years since, the Fort Mose Historical Society has worked to uplift the story through reenactments and events.

A rendering of what the reconstructed Fort Mose will look like. Fort Mose was the first free, Black settlement in what would become the United States of America.

They keep it alive, Landers said. As for the reconstruction of Fort Mose, she was thrilled. It helps tell the story. Not everybody will read my footnoted work but theyll take their kids and their families to that place. It makes it more physically real if you have something that they can visit.

Fort Mose arose during the colonial conflicts between England and Spain. Enslaved peoples, primarily from the English-owned plantations in the Carolinas, began to hear rumors that Spanish Florida provided a refuge from slavery. The first freedom seekers  eight men, two women and a three-year-old child  arrived in St. Augustine in 1687.

People in search of freedom were doing it well before the Civil War, said Chip Storey, a historian and board member of the Fort Mosey Historical Society.

As rumors spread, more and more enslaved people began to make the journey to Florida. The Spanish then saw an opportunity: in 1693, King Charles II issued a decree that all who fled to his territories and converted to Catholicism would be free. Spains somewhat different system of slavery  enslaved people could eventually gain their freedom unlike that of the English settlers who kept people in bondage for life  likely motivated this change as free Blacks had existed in Spanish society for quite some time, according to Landers.

Reenactment of a scene of life at Fort Mose. Located just outside of St. Augustine, Fort Mose was the first free, Black settlement in what would become the United States of America.

There was still legal slavery but there were all these legal routes to get out of slavery too: self-purchase, service to the military, owners can free you, baptism, Landers added. It wasnt a closed system like the Anglo-Saxons. A different legal system, religious system and social system.

By 1738, the Spanish governor of Florida chartered Fort Mose, which would become home to roughly 100 freedom seekers at its peak, as a defense system of sorts.

Fort Mose was kind of a buffer for Spain, said Marvin Dunn, the author of A History of Florida: Through Black Eyes.

And it worked. When the English raided Florida in 1740, it was a free Black militia, working alongside the Spanish and Native Americans, that squashed the attack in what became known as the Battle of Bloody Mose. The fort, however, suffered severe damage and the community abandoned it in favor of St. Augustine. In 1752, its former inhabitants rebuilt and returned to Fort Mose, where they stayed until the British purchased Florida.

They established a successful community that was not entirely self-sustaining  they sometimes got assistance from the surrounding St. Augustine  but these people were working the land, scrounging for food and self-governing in the early 18th century, Storey said.

Unwilling to return to their enslavement, many of the residents of Fort Mose would flee to Cuba. The military would occupy the fort itself until it was abandoned in the early 1800s. Fort Moses history remained hidden until Landers and Deagan who used NASA imagery to uncover the second fort as well as submerged fragments of the first.

Despite Fort Moses rather recent discovery, its importance to the story of this country cannot be overlooked.

Fort Mose shows how desperate people were to gain freedom  going through these marshes where there were alligators and snakes and all the Florida fauna of the southeast which is in some ways more difficult to traverse than if you were going north to Canada, Storey said. The people wanted this and they were determined.

That was a community that thrived, survived and then was destroyed but the people there survived, Dunn added. The fort was wiped out but their legacy, their history, their presence in St. Augustine and other parts of Florida continued. They didnt disappear.

For information about Fort Mose visit https://fortmose.org/museum.
UNITED NATIONS, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Rebels wounded a member of a UN peacekeeping patrol deployed to protect civilians in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a UN spokesman said on Tuesday.

"Suspected members of a Mayi-Mayi armed group attacked a UN patrol dispatched near Butembo, in North Kivu province, leaving one peacekeeper wounded," said Farhan Haq, the deputy spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "The injured peacekeeper was evacuated to Goma for medical treatment and is reportedly in stable condition."

The identity of the peacekeeper's country was not immediately released.

Haq said the patrol from the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, known as MONUSCO, was deployed in response to recent attacks on civilians by Allied Democratic Forces late last week that killed at least 42 civilians.

He also said that in North Kivu, in response to recent clashes between the M23 armed group and the Congolese armed forces in Kanyabayonga, MONUSCO continues to deploy joint patrols with government armed forces to protect the population.

"These patrols are contributing to restoring a sense of safety, encouraging a small number of residents to cautiously return to the area," the spokesman said. 
Reminder: These are the unofficial results. The Muscogee County Elections Board is scheduled to meet on Friday to certify the results.

UPDATE 11:40 p.m.  Chambers is taking the victory over his opponent John Anker in the District 10 City Council race and WRBL is bringing you team coverage of the race and spoke with both candidates to get their reactions to the results.

For Chambers, this is his third time appearing on the ballot. He lost a runoff in 2010 for a city-wide district seat and a Georgia statehouse seat, but the third times a charm.

Let me just say this. Yeah, Ive had a couple of losses, but at the end of the day, I love Columbus, Georgia. And one of the commitments that I made is that I will continue to serve our city because I believe in Columbus. Travis Chambers

Fortunately for Chambers, the District 10 City Council race, fell into place with the four-week runoff. Chambers received strong support in South Columbus precincts and stood firmly in the northern part of the county. The real estate broker and non-profit executive received much support from the Columbus business community.

Since there was a special election on the ballot and Chambers won by similar margins, he will take his seat officially after the votes are certified. First, he will complete the term vacated by John House and then start his four-year term in January 2025.

Chambers is joining his wife Kia, who serves on the Muscogee County School Board as a city-wide elected official.

WRBL also spoke with businessman John Anker who says hes disappointed with the results but proud of his attempt.

Ankers main driver behind his campaign was pushing for community involvement. Although he lost, Anker continues to advocate for locals attending city council meetings and asking questions to get real answers.

You know, Id like to see substance. Id like to see real economy change. Id like to see real things to the south side. Id like to see community collaboration be real an Id like our citizens to go to the podium at city council dont take simple answers with no substance behind them and push hard for real action and transparency. Push hard for accountability. Lets know where the numbers are. John Anker

Ultimately, Anker hopes that supporting the south side of Columbus and increasing collaboration remains a focal point for the city council. Anker believes he tried to incite change twice referring back to his race for mayor against Skip Henderson and said he doesnt plan on running again and will continue to support the community through his business.

UPDATE 8:18 p.m.  With 50% of the votes Realtor Travis Chambers holds nearly a 1,500 vote lead over John Anker the race for the city-wide District 10 City Council seat

Chambers has 5067 votes to 3573 votes for Anker; that includes nine of the citys 25 voting precincts.

MUSCOGEE COUNTY, Ga. (WRBL)  The first vote totals for Columbus City Council District 10 seat has been released by the Muscogee Office of Elections and Registration

Realtor Travis Chambers has jumped to an early lead with 6,700 votes tabulated. Chambers has received 4,038 which is 60% compared to 2,662 for businessman John Anker

These votes only count early in-person and absentee ballots; none of the votes cast today are included in this group.

There were well over 5,000 votes cast in person on Tuesday. Chambers and Anker were forced into a runoff when neither candidate got a majority in the May 21 race. Because this election is to fill the unexpired term John House it appears on the ballot.

The first time it appeared on the ballot was for the 6 months to finish the term and the second time for a complete four-year term. Chambers also has a commanding lead in the special election for the unexpired term with the same 60-40 margins. We will continue to monitor the votes as the come in through the night.

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 WRBL.
The years first named storm has formed in the Gulf of Mexico: Tropical Storm Alberto

The first named storm of the season, Tropical Storm Alberto, has parts of the Texas and Mexican gulf coasts under Tropical Storm Warning.

Meanwhile, the disturbance in the Atlantic Ocean still shows little signs of forming into something more.

Heres what you need to know, as of the National Hurricane Centers 5 p.m. advisory on Alberto.

Tropical Storm Alberto

Wind speed: 40 mph sustained winds. Some slight strengthening is forecast (Wednesday or Wednesday night) before the center of Alberto reaches land, the hurricane center said in its 5 p.m. Wednesday advisory.

Rapid weakening is expected once the center moves inland, and Alberto is likely to dissipate over Mexico Thursday or Thursday night.

Where is it: About 170 miles east of Tampico, Mexico, and 305 miles south-southeast of Brownsville, Texas. The hurricane center describes Alberto as large, with tropical storm force winds extending 415 miles north of the center.

Movement: Alberto is moving west-southwest at 9 mph, but a westward motion is expected to resume soon and continue for the next day or so. On this track, the center of Alberto is expected to reach the Gulf coast of Mexico early Thursday.

The tracking map for Tropical Storm Alberto. The blue line is the area under Tropical Storm warning.

Alerts: Theres a Tropical Storm Warning for the Texas coast from San Luis Pass down to the mouth of the Rio Grande River and for the northeastern Mexican coast from that mouth of the Rio Grande to Tecolutla, a resort town on the Gulf of Mexico.

Hazards: Alberto is forecast to dump up to 20 inches of rain across the higher terrain of the Mexican states of Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and Tamaulipas and 5 to 10 inches in Northeast Mexico and South Texas, according to the National Hurricane Centers 2 p.m. Wednesday advisory. Mudslides are possible in parts of Northeast Mexico. Parts of Texas are looking at a storm surge up to 4 feet.

The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast near and to the north of the landfall location, where the surge will be accompanied by large and dangerous waves, the hurricane center forecasts.

Tornadoes are possible in Texas. Swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

Advisories: There will be an intermediate advisory at 7 p.m. and a complete advisory at 10 p.m., Eastern time.

The Atlantic Disturbance

An area of showers and thunderstorms located several hundred miles east of the Bahamas is associated with a surface trough of low pressure, the hurricane centers 5 p.m. Wednesday update said. Environmental conditions are marginally conducive for some gradual development of this system during the next few days while it moves westward or west-northwestward.

The system is forecast to approach the coast of the southeastern United States by Friday.

Formation chance in the next two days: 20%

Formation chance in the next week: 20%
Candidates for Washington state attorney general in 2024, from left to rigth, Pete Serrano, Nick Brown and Manka Dhingra. (TVW)

Washingtons three candidates for attorney general talked Trump, public safety and consumer protection during a debate Tuesday night.

The League of Women Voters of Washington and Benton and Franklin counties hosted a forum in Richland between former U.S. Attorney Nick Brown, state Sen. Manka Dhingra and Pasco Mayor Pete Serrano.

All are vying to run Washingtons top legal office. With less than two months before the Aug. 6 primary, Brown, a Democrat, appears to be the frontrunner, having raised nearly $1.2 million as of Tuesday. Dhingra, also a Democrat, is close behind, raising around $873,000, followed by Republican Serrano, whos raised $162,600.

The top two candidates in the primary will advance to the general election in November.

Here are five takeaways from Tuesdays debate:

Donald Trump is casting a shadow over the race.

Democratic Attorney General Bob Ferguson, whos running for governor, prides himself on the number of cases hes brought, and won, against former President Donald Trump.

If Trump is elected again, Brown and Dhingra said Tuesday they are ready to continue his work.

I dont want to sue a presidential administration just to have my name in the headlines, just because it makes me more popular, Brown said. But if I need to bring a case to protect the people of Washington, whether thats a Trump administration or anybody else, we will absolutely do it.

Similarly, Dhingra said if Trump wins and she is elected as AG, she will do everything she can to protect reproductive rights.

Serrano, the lone Republican running for the office, said he is prepared to protect Washington residents regardless of whos in office, whether its in D.C. or in Olympia.

But he never characterized another Trump administration as a threat. When asked about Project 2025  an almost 1,000-page national conservative policy playbook embraced by those who support another Trump term  Serrano said he would stand up against any proposals he felt violated Washingtonians rights.

Public safety is a priority for all candidates, but they each see it differently.

Serrano said addressing the states fentanyl crisis is a priority for him and criticized the Legislature for their recent drug policies, which he characterized as too lenient. He said he wants to ensure that there are felony penalties for distributing illegal drugs.

Serrano also emphasized he wants to make sure that police have the power to keep communities safe. They cant do their job without the backbone of the attorney generals office, he said.

Dhingra said her most important criminal justice priorities would be addressing gender-based crimes, such as trafficking or domestic violence.

Brown said he wants to see more policies that address the root causes of crime and public safety concerns, like increasing housing and investing more in the states education system and early learning.

Brown and Dhingra want stricter gun safety laws. Serrano, not so much.

In recent years, the Legislature has passed significant gun control legislation, including banning assault-style weapons and large-capacity ammunition magazines.

Dhingra said gun violence prevention is top of mind for her and pointed to her experience in Olympia pushing for some of those laws. Brown said he would continue to defend the states recently enacted restrictions on firearms and that they have saved lives.

Serrano, whose conservative nonprofit  the Silent Majority Foundation  has sought to overturn some of these laws, said he doesnt want to pit the right of the people against the protection of the people.

He said people need the ability to protect themselves and added that the state should continue to prosecute those who obtain guns illegally.

All candidates support strong consumer protections.

Serrano said the states consumer protection office can be a tremendous tool to help shield residents from fraudulent business activities. But he also said if its authority is misused, it can result in egregious acts of abusive power.

He criticized Ferguson, saying hed sponsored legislation to use the states consumer protection laws in areas where they shouldnt apply, though Serrano did not specify what he was referring to.

Brown said he wants to remain aggressive on consumer protection, particularly when marginalized communities are vulnerable to corporations and others in power.

Dhingra said the attorney generals office needs to do better at communicating to the public that the office can fight on consumer protection issues. We need government to work for the people, she said.

Everyone thinks they have the most experience.

All three candidates have experience as attorneys and working with or for the government. And on Tuesday, they didnt let audience members forget it.

From October 2021 until last year, Brown served as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington. Before that, he was a partner at Pacifica Law Group, where he is still working part-time. He also served as general counsel to Gov. Jay Inslee from 2013 to 2017.

I have a decade of experience being an advocate for people, Brown said.

Dhingra is a senior deputy prosecuting attorney for King County. She has been a state senator representing Redmond since 2017. She currently chairs the Senate Law and Justice Committee and has pushed legislation on firearm restrictions, abortion protections and police accountability.

We need bold leaders who have a history of working on tough issues, Dhingra said.

Serrano is in his second term on the Pasco City Council and serves as mayor. Hes also the former leader of the Franklin County Republican Party. Before that, he was an environmental lawyer for the U.S. Department of Energy at Hanford. In 2021, he helped found the Silent Majority Foundation.

Im here to protect you, whether thats protection from the bad guys out there or protection from the government and advising them you may not, you cannot and you shall not violate these individuals rights, Serrano said.

The post Five takeaways from the first WA attorney general debate appeared first on Washington State Standard.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The National Weather Service (NWS) in Albuquerque issued a Flash Flood Warning for South Central Lincoln County on Wednesday, June 19, as wildfires continue to grow throughout the Ruidoso, New Mexico area.

1,400 structures lost, 1 person dead in Ruidoso fires

The NWS says the warning started at 1:55 p.m. and will last until 5 p.m. Wednesday.

The NWS says at 1:55 p.m., the Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area and between 0.25 and 0.5 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 0.5 to 1 inch are possible in the warned area.

Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. Excessive rainfall will impact the South Fork burn scar. The debris flow can consist of rock, mud, vegetation, and other loose materials, the NWS said.

The NWS also issued a Flash Flood Watch for areas near McBride, Blue 2, and nearby burned areas in effect from 3 p.m. Mountain Time Wednesday afternoon through Wednesday night.

The NWS says the following areas will experience flash flooding:

Ruidoso

Ruidoso Downs

Alto

Hollywood

Due to the Flash Flood Warning for the Blue 2 and South Fork Fires that was just issued by the National Weather Service, the Ruidoso Office of Emergency Management is pulling all operations out of the following areas:

Upper Canyon

Eagle Drive

Sleepy Hollow

Country Club

Lower Gavilan

Lower Paradise Canyon

Two Rivers

Carrizo Canyon

As the units and crews leave these areas, they will be evacuating anyone who is still in the area to higher ground.

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.
Travel remains difficult on many roads and highways in northeastern Minnesota Wednesday morning due to flooding after severe thunderstorms unleashed several inches of rain across the Arrowhead region and a confirmed tornado Tuesday night.

Flood warnings remained in effect across Cook, Lake, St. Louis, Itasca, Koochiching and northern Cass counties after 3 to 5 inches of rain fell across the region Tuesday. The area includes the Voyageurs National Park and the western Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness along with International Falls, Duluth, Ely, Hibbing and Grand Marais.

A tornado touched down near Cotton, Minn., but no damage was immediately reported, the St. Louis County Sheriff's Office said.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is advising motorists using stretches of Hwy. 1 between Silver Bay and Ely and Hwy. 61 between Beaver Bay and Lutsen to "drive with extreme caution" as water and debris cover portions of the highways. Motorists on Hwys. 53 and 135 in near Virginia were advised to consider alternate routes, the agency said.

Flash flooding had the I-35 tunnel in Duluth closed for a time Tuesday night, but the freeway was back open Wednesday morning, MnDOT reported.

"The flooding will continue overnight and may get worse before it improves," the National Weather Service in Duluth said. "Rivers and streams remain high and some continue to rapidly increase."

First responders attempted to reach a 9-year-old boy in a tent who was struck by a tree that fell in the BWCA during the storm. A boat was used to evacuate the victim who was rescued at about 11 p.m., said Cook County Sheriff Pat Eliasen. The boy's condition was not immediately known.

In Duluth, social media captured water cascading onto the streets.

Dry conditions are predicted for Wednesday across most of Minnesota before another chance of rain returns Thursday and Friday, the National Weather Service said.

In the metro area, in anticipation of high water, the Minnesota Department of Transportation will close the Hwy. 41 Minnesota River crossing between Hwy. 169 and downtown Chaska at 9 a.m. Thursday. MnDOT has already called off this weekend's closure of portions of northbound Interstate 35W, southbound I-35W, and eastbound I-494 in Bloomington and Richfield due to the expected inclement weather. This closure will take place the weekend of June 28.

In Carver County, officials have shut down County Road 123 north of Hwy. 7 as water from the nearby Crow River covered the road. County Road 30 is closed west of New Germany to Lester Prairie, the Carver County Sheriff's Office posted on X Tuesday evening. And others may be too, said Ari Lyksett, a spokeswoman for Carver County.

"We are ready to activate any needed emergency procedures in the event of high-water conditions as we monitor throughout the day and continue to receive regular updates from the National Weather Service in Chanhassen," she said.

In Delano, public works crews installed a flood wall along the east side of Bridge Avenue on Tuesday as a precaution to keep water out of the downtown area. The Crow River is expected to crest Sunday at 20 feet, about 4 feet above flood stage.

"We felt it was a good move to put it up now," said Mayor Holly Schrupp, who noted there has not been any flooding in downtown yet. "We are taking the measures we need to take."

Officials in Mankato have closed the campground at Land of Memories Park and trails next to the Minnesota River, a press statement from the city said Tuesday. City staff are also preparing work details for potential patrols of Mankato's levee and flood walls.

Water rose quickly along the Minnesota River from New Ulm in southern Minnesota to the south metro suburb of Savage. The rushing Cannon River and branches of the Crow River in Hennepin, Wright and Carver counties were nearing flood stage in places. Flood warnings were in place along those waterways, the National Weather Service said.

Storms traveling over the same area of already waterlogged ground could lead to flash flooding. Those living near water should prepare to immediately move to higher ground should flooding occur, the Department of Public Safety's Homeland Security and Emergency Management said.

The agency also warned people not to park vehicles near streams or drive through flooded areas. Officials also advised not to wade through flood waters, which can be filled with debris and could be contaminated with sewage, insects or animals.

The odds that water will recede fast are slim, said Jeff Strock, a professor at the University of Minnesota's Southwest Research and Outreach Center in Lamberton. On Tuesday, farm fields along the Hwy. 14 corridor from Waseca to the west had standing water. With the soil saturated, the water and any rain that falls will run off into rivers and streams and push water higher. The long-term impact will be felt in urban areas like the metro as the glut makes its way downstream.

"The flooding situation could last for a while," Strock said.

And so could the impact as farmers won't be able to replant their crops, urban roads flood and rushing water poses dangers for venturing onto lakes and rivers.

The June deluge has "been way too much of a good thing," Strock said. "We'll feel a lot of downsides for a while."By Tuesday morning, the storms had dropped 4.28 inches of rain in the Twin Cities, but some places in southern Minnesota have seen 3 to 10 inches of rain in the past few days.

Wet Junes are nothing unusual, said Assistant State Climatologist Pete Boulay.

"It's very typical," he said. "We just have not had that in the past four years. Every year the jet stream moves north. Welcome back to an active pattern."

As soggy as it has been, this June is nowhere near the wettest on record. That distinction belongs to 1874 when 11.67 inches of rain fell in June. For 2024 to crack the top 15 wettest Junes, another 2.83 inches would need to fall at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, where the metro area's official weather readings are taken, the Climatology Office said.

Plagued by very dry conditions last summer, the entire state has seen adequate precipitation this year and is drought-free, according to the latest report from the U.S. Drought Monitor.
A Florida man has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit three years after a Marion County sheriff's deputy arrested him for filming officers from a public sidewalk.

In 2021, Marion County Sheriff's Deputy Neil Rosaci arrested George Nathansen and charged him with obstruction of justice for refusing to follow his orders to leave the scene of an investigation. However, body camera footage showed Nathansen standing at least 30 feet away on a public sidewalk before Rosaci walked over and handcuffed him.

In Nathansen's lawsuit, filed last Friday in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, he alleges that Rosaci and the Marion County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) violated his Fourth Amendment and Fourteenth Amendment rights by falsely arresting and incarcerating him.

Numerous federal appeals courts have ruled that filming the police is protected under the First Amendment, but police around the country continue to illegally arrest people for it. The Justice Department released a report this month on pervasive civil rights violations by the Phoenix Police Department, including retaliating against citizens who were trying to record them. Earlier this year, Texas prosecutors dropped charges against a citizen journalist who was arrested, strip-searched, and jailed for filming police.

Nathansen's case is yet another example of police retaliation against someone for core First Amendment activities.

The incident began on July 24, 2021, when Rosaci arrived at the scene of a car crash. While deputies were talking to the two parties involved in the accident, Nathansen arrived and began filming with his cell phone. There are a growing number of self-styled "First Amendment auditors" around the country who record police interactions and post them online. (In response to alleged harassment, several states have passed dubious "buffer-zone" laws that criminalize being too close to a first responder.)

Rosaci's body camera footage, obtained by the Ocala Post, showed that Nathansen was filming near the deputies' cars when Rosaci first shooed him away and told him, "You can stand on the sidewalk over there."

A couple minutes later, Nathansen wandered over to a bench, away from the deputies, where several of the occupants of one of the cars involved in the crash were sitting. Rosaci returned and physically forced Nathansen back onto the sidewalk, warning him that if he interfered again he would be arrested. Nathansen has a disability that inhibits his ability to speak and requires him to use an artificial larynx.

Rosaci and another deputy at the scene mentioned that they'd seen Nathansen before. "He's the one that's trying to start that YouTube channel," the other deputy griped.

Nathansen milled around on the sidewalk, walking back a few steps and then taking another few steps toward the deputies before stopping.

"Sir, do not step back over here again," Rosaci said after Nathansen had stopped. "I'm telling you if you come back in our vicinity I will take you to jail. Step back, step back."

Nathansen did not step back, but instead motioned at the sidewalk. Rosaci walked up to him and handcuffed him.

Watch the full body camera video here:

Nathansen repeatedly asked for a supervisor at the scene, but was refused.

A month later, after the MCSO released the body camera footage, the local state's attorney dropped the charges against Nathansen, saying in a statement to the Ocala Post that, "After review of the body cam video, the actions of the defendant do not support prosecution of the charge."

Nathansen's lawsuit seeks compensatory damages and attorney fees.

The MCSO declined to comment on Nathansen's lawsuit.

The post A Florida Man Was Arrested for Filming Marion County Sheriff's Deputies. Now He's Suing. appeared first on Reason.com.
Florida man buys mask at gas station to burglarize bank across the street: deputies

Florida man buys mask at gas station to burglarize bank across the street: deputies

MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida man was caught on video purchasing a mask from a gas station before walking across the street to burglarize an unlocked bank on Saturday, according to the Martin County Sheriffs Office.

Around 7 p.m., Colton Vanhonhenstien, 33, of Hobe Sound, was caught on surveillance video at a gas station, located off US1, buying the mask.

Man shot to death at busy intersection near Tampa; deputies searching for suspect

Officials said Vanhonhenstien then went to the Wells Fargo Bank across the street, which was closed but left unlocked, and began rummaging through drawers and cabinets. All of them were empty, so he left.

Deputies received a call from the banks monitoring system of a bank robbery in progress after they spotted a masked man inside, and following the buildings alarm going off.

The sheriffs office surrounded the bank but said no one was inside.

Florida Rep. Castor calls on OSHA after DeSantis signs cruel bill banning local heat protections for workers

Later, the alarm company said they wait at least an hour to call deputies and that the suspect was long gone, according to the sheriffs office.

Martin County Sheriffs Office

Martin County Sheriffs Office

Martin County Sheriffs Office

With the help of the security footage, Vanhonhenstien was later found and arrested.

He was charged with burglary despite the fact that the only thing he walked with was the mask that set him back five bucks, officials said.

Deputies are investigating why the banks doors were left unlocked and why the alarm monitoring company was delayed in their response.

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.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida man has been impersonating law enforcement since he was 16, the Orange County Sheriffs Office said in a social media post.

On X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, the sheriffs office said Christopher Levins was first arrested in 2013 for trying to arrest someone while wearing a police uniform. He served nine months at a youth academy before being released.

Source: Orange County Sheriffs Office

In 2016, at the age of 18, Levins impersonated an undercover agent and K-9 handler, the sheriffs office said. He was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. While awaiting trial, Levins reportedly impersonated a Homeland Security officer at the youth academy where he originally spent time.

In 2017, he was reportedly arrested at the University of South Florida for impersonating an FBI K-9 officer.

After getting out of prison in 2018, Levins pretended to be a police officer and handcuffed a woman, who he took to the Lake County jail.

Levins was investigated again in 2023 and has been charged with kidnapping for the 2018 incident, the sheriffs office said.

The Orange County Sheriffs Office is asking anyone who may have encountered Levins to contact the offices Intelligence Section at intel@ocsofl.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 WFLA.
Floridas Department of Health recently sent an email to its nearly 700,000 medical marijuana patient list praising Governor Ron DeSantis, who is opposing a proposal for recreational marijuana use, for his achievements.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

This message, which praised initiatives like a cancer research program promoted by First Lady Casey DeSantis and highlighted spending on health issues such as HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis, did not mention medical marijuana.

Patients and advocates are outraged, claiming the DeSantis administration misused their contact information for political promotion.

That is revolting. That is really such a misuse of power and information, said State Rep. Kelly Skidmore, the ranking Democrat on the House Health Policy Committee. I guarantee you nobody checked the box that said, Yes, its OK to send me information on Gov. DeSantis agenda.

The Department of Health defended the email, stating it was sent to all individuals in its databases, totaling over two million members of the public, healthcare professionals, licensees, and media.

Spokeswoman Weesam Khoury criticized the medias focus on the email, arguing, It is unfortunate that [The Associated Press] has decided to write a story about the inconvenience of an email, rather than covering the key investments that will save countless lives.

Advocates argue that email is more than an inconvenience; its a privacy violation. Floridas broad public records laws could allow someone to deduce who is a medical marijuana patient, as they make up about 35% of the recipients. This exposure could lead to unwanted marketing, political messages, or worseemployment discrimination.

Jodi James, president of the nonprofit Florida Cannabis Action Network, stated, My information should not be part of their general email blast list by any stretch of the imagination.

Ironically, Gov. DeSantis has been vocal against Big Tech, accusing companies of misusing personal information.

State Democratic Party chair Nikki Fried, a former agriculture commissioner, called the action irresponsible: I would have been scorched alive if I had done anything with that database to either release their information to another part of my agency or to have used that database for pushing the rest of the news or activities from the Department of Agriculture.

A Pensacola medical marijuana patient plans to file a formal complaint, stressing the seriousness of the issue: If it was a doctor that put out your private patient information for some other agenda, I feel like somebody should be held accountable.

Personal injury lawyer John Morgan, who led the states 2016 medical marijuana effort, questioned whether the email violated federal laws on the release of medical information. He also pointed out the potential for political misuse of the email list, especially in the context of promoting recreational marijuana in the upcoming November election.

That would be the greatest list they could ever have for this election, Morgan said.

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A refugee woman works on handicrafts at her home in Kampala, Uganda, June 11, 2024. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

KAMPALA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- In the hustle and bustle of Kampala, the Ugandan capital, a group of Congolese refugee women are trying to fit in, hoping to heal from the war trauma they faced back home in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and stand on their own feet in a foreign country.

As the world marks World Refugee Day on June 20, Grace Kashama, 38, a Congolese refugee said in an interview with Xinhua in a crowded tailoring classroom in Makindye, a Kampala suburb, that she is keen on learning the skill so that she can open a tailoring shop someday in the future.

Kashama is part of a small group of 16 women, composed of Congolese and Somali refugees learning tailoring here at People for Peace and Defense of Rights (PPRD), a refugee-led non-governmental organization. Kashama's group, named "Princess," is part of a larger group of about 300 refugees acquiring various skills like art and craft making, music, fashion and design at PPRD.

"I decided to take on tailoring because I know in future it can take care of me and my children. When I start this (tailoring), even if I get little money, I can survive," Kashama said. Kashama fled her hometown in Beni, a city in northeastern DRC after her husband was murdered in 2017.

Florence Mwavita Bitonde, 68, another Congolese refugee, is already out on the streets after acquiring skills in making arts and crafts. In a small house, living with her eight children, Bitonde uses her premises as a workshop.

Bitonde fled to Uganda in 2015, after rebels attacked her home in Rutshuru, leaving her husband dead.

Bitonde said that she has been making crafts for the past five years and has turned her life around. Every morning, Bitonde wakes up to make craft bags and hand-knitted scarves. With the help of her children, the bags are sold to neighboring communities.

she is now even passing on her craft-making skills to other refugee women and host communities.

Kashama and Bitonde are part of a group of about 5,000 refugee women who are skilled by PPRD to become self-reliant.

Joyeux Mugisho, the head of PPRD, said making the refugees active and engaging in income-generating activities helps them heal from the trauma that they faced back home. "We believe that trauma always comes back when people are suffering. When we give them these skills, it helps them focus on business and earning an income that is helping them take care of their children, (helping children) to go to school and have food," Mugisho said.

PPRD is not alone in providing these skilling packages to refugees. In February this year, the UN World Food Program (WFP) in Uganda launched a 15-million-USD Self-Reliance Model targeting 100,000 refugees and host communities to progressively sustain themselves and reduce dependence on humanitarian assistance.

According to the food aid agency, as global funding of refugee programs dwindles and the increasingly unpredictable weather conditions, the Self-Reliance Model will support refugees and host communities to meet their own food needs by promoting income diversification and alternative livelihoods as well as digital financial inclusion.

Due to funding shortages, the WFP program reduced the food ratio given to the refugees. Only those in critical need are given food relief. Other refugees like Bitonde and Kashama stopped receiving food aid from the agency long time ago.

Uganda is host to more than 1.6 million refugees, making it one of the largest refugee-hosting countries in the world, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Most of the refugees come from neighboring South Sudan, DRC, Burundi, Rwanda, and Somalia among others.

Hilary Onek, Uganda's minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugee, said in February that as a country that hosts the highest number of refugees in Africa, there is a need for comprehensive development approaches that go beyond immediate humanitarian support. 

Refugee women attend a tailoring and fashion training class in Kampala, Uganda, June 11, 2024. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

A staff member (R) of People for Peace and Defense of Rights (PPRD), a refugee-led non-governmental organization, helps a refugee learn tailoring skill during a tailoring and fashion training class in Kampala, Uganda, June 11, 2024. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

Congolese refugee Grace Kashama (L) learns tailoring skill under the guidance of a staff member of People for Peace and Defense of Rights (PPRD), a refugee-led non-governmental organization, during a tailoring and fashion training class in Kampala, Uganda, June 11, 2024. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

Joyeux Mugisho, the head of People for Peace and Defense of Rights (PPRD), a refugee-led non-governmental organization, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Kampala, Uganda, June 11, 2024. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)
"Jesus himself never condemned slavery," one Florida man said to defend the honor of Confederate leader Robert E. Lee during a March 2021 school board meeting in Jacksonville. "In fact, he said, slaves have an obligation to obey their master," the outraged white man insisted.

A crowd had pounced to keep the students of Robert E. Lee High School, 70% of whom are Black, from changing the name to something less Confederacy-honoring.

"I was taught that the chiefs of the tribes in Africa sold their people into slavery," an angry white woman said as the white people behind her nodded vigorously. "So don't blame Robert E. Lee. Maybe you should be after your ancestors."

Alarmed by what she was hearing, Amy Donofrio decided to do something. She was a teacher at the school, located in Duval County, which has since been renamed Riverside High School. She knew how sentiments like the ones shared at the school board meeting made her students feel. "Students made it clear that they were dealing with a lot," Donofrio told Salon. "They were walking into our schools facing racism, frankly, from every corner."

Years before, Donofrio had helped her students start a group called EVAC Movement. Once invited to speak at the White House with then-President Barack Obama, by 2021, students in the group were eager to strip their school of a name honoring a Confederate general who personally held over 200 people in slavery.

Jacksonville, Florida protest against changing the name of Robert E. Lee High School

So Donofrio took photos and videos from the school board meeting, including another one of a man asking, "If this high school is having problems, how long has it been predominantly African-American?" And she expressed concerns to the administration that such comments hurt her students. She would soon be removed from her classroom, publicly targeted by the Republican state government under Gov. Ron DeSantis, eventually fired, and threatened with having her teaching license stripped entirely.

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But while Donofrio's life has been chaos in the years since the DeSantis administration made her a target in their "war on woke," she eventually prevailed. A Florida administrative judge just ruled in Donofrio's favor regarding the dispute that created the pretext to harass her: a Black Lives Matter flag she hung in her classroom.

Donofrio had been hanging the flag for some time before the school board meeting. "Especially as a white woman," she told Salon, it was important to let students "know that they're cared about." The flag, she said, was a simple way to make them "feel safe" so they could "get an education." Administrators had been complaining to her about it but had no policy to point to in order to justify taking it down. However, after the school board meeting, the pressure on Donofrio intensified. Pointing to a new policy barring teachers from trying "to influence students to support or oppose any candidate, party or issue," the administration ordered the flag removed. When she refused, they took it down for her and pulled her out of the classroom, while they investigated whether she had violated school rules.

The situation quickly escalated. A petition in support of Donofrio circulated by students quickly amassed thousands of signatures and the Southern Poverty Law Center sued the district on her behalf. But the DeSantis administration was determined to make Donofrio the face of "woke" teachers their administration was stirring up fear and hatred towards. In May of 2021, Florida Department of Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran singled out Donofrio during a speech at Hillsdale College, which, as Kathryn Joyce has reported for Salon, is the epicenter of the Christian right's assault on public education. Complaining about "an entire classroom memorialized to Black Lives Matter," Corcoran falsely declared, "We made sure she was terminated." In truth, Donofrio still had her job but was "assigned to paid, non-teaching duties," according to the school district's official statement. Before the summer was over, however, the school board filled Corcoran's wish, firing Donofrio and settling her lawsuit out of court. Still that was not the end of her woes. Within days of her firing, the state opened another investigation, this time into whether Donofrio's teacher's license should be revoked entirely.

Donofrio feels she was targeted in order to create "an environment of fear" for teachers across Florida. DeSantis was soon promoting a series of policies, such as the "don't say gay" law and the "stop woke" act aimed at prohibiting discussions of racism and sexual diversity that Republicans claimed was inappropriate for public school students. Critics of these bills pointed out that the language about what is and isn't allowed was vague, which Donofrio argues was on purpose. "If somebody high up doesn't like you or disagrees with, you watch out," she said. "The repercussions can stretch into a lot of different parts of your life."

DeSantis, for his part, denied that the bills were meant to lead to widespread book banning, harassment of LGBTQ teachers or students, or the end of teaching about segregation or slavery in history classes. But that is exactly what happened in much of the state. Educational programs about the civil rights movement were canceled. Teachers were forced to lock up their entire classroom library. Books about slavery, the Holocaust, and even 9/11 were banned. Even the dictionary was banned in one school district. The bans and harassment spread to other states. A 2022 analysis from the Washington Post found that Donofrio was not alone: Over 160 teachers were driven out of their jobs by Republican-led attacks on public education.

All of these machinations helped DeSantis raise his national profile as a right-wing culture warrior but did not help him win the Republican presidential nomination. Despite spending $160 million to defeat Donald Trump, the Florida governor only got 21% of the Iowa caucus votes, and quit the race shortly thereafter. His "war on woke" turned out to be so impractical that he ended up signing another bill in April limiting non-parents to one challenge per month.

Donofrio, meanwhile, was still fighting to keep her teaching license. Finally, she got a hearing before an administration judge in February and a decision in April. The judge ruled for Donofrio on the issue of the Black Lives Matter flag. Donofrio's "intent to affirm and support her students was clear, and she had a successful history of promoting the physical and emotional well-being of her minority students," the judge wrote. Instead, the judge noted "the School environment became hostile after administration removed the flag," because the principal "had to work hard, meeting with students and making extra efforts to assure students that he supported them and that their lives did indeed matter to him." In June, the final hearing was held, and the DeSantis government lost again: Donofrio's teaching license remains intact.

"I feel vindicated, but I also feel sad," Donofrio told Salon. Sad, she explained, because "a lot of teachers have been leaving Florida and quitting schools in Florida because of all of this."

"I think our kids here are worth fighting for," she added, noting that ultimately, teachers alone cannot solve this problem. "We can't just encourage teachers to stand up and stand with our kids without giving them the resources to do it and survive."

Donofrio isn't sure what's next for her. She hasn't gotten her job back at the now-Riverside High School. Still, she said, she's feeling "hopeful" after this legal victory. "I also want teachers to look at the case," she said, "and realize if you stand up for what's right, you can win too. It is possible."
Posters of some of those kidnapped by Hamas in Israeli are displayed on a pole outside of New York University (NYU) as tensions between supporters of Palestine and Israel increase on college campuses across the nation on October 30, 2023 in New York City. Many Jewish and Israeli students have felt threatened after large and vocal demonstrations against the fighting in Gaza broke out at numerous universities. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

A group of Utah lawmakers, Jewish leaders and a South Carolina judge viewed 47 minutes of unedited video of the Hamas terror groups Oct. 7 attack on Israel in a closed screening at the state Capitol on Tuesday meant to reinforce for them the brutality and reality of what the victims experienced that day.

The screening was organized by Utah Senate President Stuart Adams, who said the footage is a reminder that the ensuing conflict between Israel and Gaza is a global issue.

Speaking briefly after viewing the graphic footage, a somber Adams compared Utah leaders watching the video to other nations and allies supporting the U.S. after the 9/11 terror attacks.

We had people that understood our pain, and we see the pain that the Israeli people are going through. Theres nothing that can explain it. We need to stand with the free world to try to protect whats going on. And yeah, its important that we understand and remember. I will never forget. Hopefully the world never forgets, Adams said.

Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) wears a pin with the Israeli and American flags as he greets family members of hostages being held by Hamas on Capitol Hill Nov. 29, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The footage of the attack that killed about 1,200 people, provided by the Israeli government, has also been shown to lawmakers in other states and seen by members of Congress, journalists and diplomats, Adams said.

It includes footage taken from body-worn cameras worn by Hamas attackers that was streamed on social media, as well as cellphone video captured by both Hamas and their victims, and video from cameras on the streets.

SC connections

Also at the screening was former South Carolina GOP Rep. Alan Clemmons, whose ties with the Israeli government helped make the screening in Utah happen, according to the Utah Deseret News.

Clemmons, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, gained international attention as an advocate for Israel during his 18 years in the state House, starting with a 2011 resolution adopted unanimously by the chamber, which was essentially a statement of support on Israels right to exist. It declared that Israel is neither an attacking force nor an occupier of the lands of others.

Four years later, he sponsored an anti-boycott measure aimed at barring state agencies from doing business with or investing in companies that boycott products or divest from Israel (though it doesnt actually reference Israel). Opposed by just one legislator in the entire General Assembly, the bill was signed into law by then-Gov. Nikki Haley in June 2015. Three dozen other states have since passed similar policies opposing the so-called boycott, divestment and sanctions movement.

Clemmons, a master-in-equity for Horry County since 2022, also spearheaded legislation to define antisemitism in 2017, citing rising anti-Jewish bigotry on college campuses, which the South Carolina House passed overwhelmingly that year. But it died in the state Senate amid First Amendment concerns.

Reintroduced by Democrat Rep. Beth Bernstein of Columbia  South Carolinas only Jewish legislator  the measure defining antisemitism passed the Senate unanimously in April amid a wave of sometimes violent college protests in other states on the Israel-Hamas war.

Gov. Henry McMaster signed the bill into law last month.

Attorney General Alan Wilson confirmed to the SC Daily Gazette on Wednesday that hes working to bring a screening of the Hamas footage to South Carolina. That may be several months away, he said, as hes coordinating with several groups.

I think its important for people to understand what real evil is, said Wilson, who has seen the video and called it very disturbing.

He was among a bipartisan group of attorneys general nationwide who spent a week in Israel earlier this month on a trip he said was sponsored by the American-Israel Friendship League and National Association of Attorneys General.

Were an entire generation removed from 9/11. There are kids graduating college who werent alive during 9/11 and (another terrorist attack in America) is a very distinct possibility, he said. I want Americans and South Carolinians to wake up and see what the possibilities are if were not vigilant.

Utah screening

As for the screening Tuesday in Utah, some media were also invited to attend, including Utah News Dispatch. The Dispatch declined to sign the non-disclosure agreement required to view the footage and therefore did not sit in on the screening but spoke to some who viewed it.

While he has talked and read about the attack, Adams said, seeing the footage made it real.

Asked about the level of Israels response in Gaza, Adams shared his sympathy but emphasized the Israeli hostages that remain there.

You have to feel for anyone whos been devastated like that, but you also have to stand up and try to defend what you believe is right. And we need the hostages. Why arent they released? Adams said.

Of about 250 hostages taken into Gaza on Oct. 7, the Associated Press reports, about 120 remain there, with 43 pronounced dead. Another 105 were exchanged during a weeklong cease-fire in November for 240 Palestinian prisoners. Four were rescued earlier this month in a blistering operation by Israel.

With heavy civilian casualties in Gaza, Israels response to the attack has been called one of the most destructive military efforts this century, according to AP. The Hamas-linked Gaza Health Ministry has put the death toll above 34,000.

The state of Utah has not been asked by Israel for any specific resources or support, Adams said, though he expressed his willingness to stand with the nation. In a prepared statement prior to the screening, Adams pointed to the states ties with Israel.

Utah and Israel have a strong diplomatic and economic connection, with trade between the two exceeding $170 million in 2022, the same year that Utah Gov. Spencer Cox led a trade mission to Israel, the governors office noted last year.

A major with the Israeli Air Force, who asked not to be identified for safety reasons, spoke to the group before they viewed the footage. He said his message to them was that seeing the film would break through the noise of the media and especially social media as they saw for themselves what happened on Oct. 7, stressing that it cant be allowed to happen again.

And if we need to fight Hamas until its done, thats what must be done. Because as long as Hamas exists, or the same ideology exists, this will just happen again. It will happen to Israel. It will happen to others, the major said.

Asked why the footage was screened in Utah specifically, the major said that the ultimate goal is to spread the message everywhere, not just to one state.

He compared it to American soldiers in World War II who witnessed atrocities committed in the Holocaust and shared what they saw with the world.

If not for the need to show respect for the families of the people killed and wounded in the footage, he said he would want to show it to everyone.

So, we showed it only to a select group of people that will tell others what they saw, he said.

Also in the audience was Rabbi Avremi Zippel, a well-known Jewish leader in the state.

From what I understand, on a diplomatic level, Israel is trying to share this information with any state that will take it, and I know there had been some conversations when the new consul general took office about bringing it to Utah, and Im glad to see that that has happened, Zippel said.

Zippel said he was unprepared for the violence in the footage, especially the exultation he saw from the attackers.

I think its important that lawmakers understand this is not two nations that are at war with one another, over land, over ideology, over any sort of national existence. This is an existential battle. This is a war between people who want to live and a war between people who believe that their calling from on high is to wipe out the first group of people, Zippel said. And Ive got to be honest with you, I didnt have that level of perspective before watching this.

Zippel said he received a text from one lawmaker earlier in the day who said they wouldnt be attending because the violent footage would be too difficult to watch. As the grandson of a Holocaust survivor, Zippel said he believes its important to remember difficult things, and that just eight months after the Oct. 7 attack, what happened is being forgotten.

Zippel said he does not believe that by emphasizing the brutality of Hamas actions, everyday Muslims could face hostility.

Having watched this film, I certainly dont feel any level of acrimony or resentment towards a single follower or adherent of the Islamic faith, Zippel said.

SC Daily Gazette Editor Seanna Adcox contributed to this report.

Like SC Daily Gazette, Utah News Dispatch is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Utah News Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor McKenzie Romero for questions: info@utahnewsdispatch.com. Follow Utah News Dispatch on Facebook and X.

The post Footage of Oct. 7 attack screened to emphasize severity to state leaders, support Israel appeared first on SC Daily Gazette.
Nearly 20 former Bellingham employees are suing the city and former Mayor Seth Fleetwood over their dismissal for refusing to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

In the lawsuit, filed Thursday with the U.S. Western District Court in Seattle, the employees are seeking unspecified punitive and compensatory damages in a jury trial.

All 18 employees, including former police officers, firefighters, mechanics and Public Works Department employees, are being represented by the Schexnaydre Law Firm of Mandeville, La., and locally by Charice Holtsclaw.

They were fired for not complying with Fleetwoods executive order, issued Sept. 21, 2021, requiring all city employees to have the COVID-19 vaccine by Dec. 6, 2021. By that time, nearly 80% of all city workers had been vaccinated, according to Bellingham spokeswoman Janice Keller.

Neither the plaintiffs lawyers nor Bellingham officials were immediately available for comment late Tuesday.

Keller, the the citys communications director and deputy city administrator, told The Bellingham Herald in a May 1 email that Fleetwood was acting in good faith to ease the suffering and death caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The citys vaccine mandate was enacted as an emergency order to protect the health and safety of employees and the public, during a time when COVID-19 was causing illness, loss of life, and disruption to our community and our workforce. We took this action with great care, and with the support of many employees who were grateful for this additional protection in our workplace. When employees requested accommodations, our team evaluated each request individually and thoughtfully, understanding that their recommendations affected employees lives and livelihoods. These were difficult decisions made during extraordinary times, with employee and public health and safety at the forefront of our minds, Keller said.

Plaintiffs in the lawsuit filed Thursday include Tawsha Thompson, a former Bellingham police officer with 25 years experience. She ran for the state House as a Republican in 2022, losing to Rep. Alicia Rule, D-Blaine.

Some of the employees who were dismissed say that their requests for medical and religious exemptions under the vaccine mandate were rejected, according to the lawsuit.

As of Dec. 7, 2021, a total of 27 city employees lost their jobs for failing to comply with state and city vaccine requirements, Keller told The Herald in April, when former police officer Joshua D. Wilson sued the city over his COVID-19 firing. Wilson was not named as a plaintiff in Thursdays lawsuit.

Six employees resigned, 17 were dismissed for violating the citys terms of employment, and four were dismissed for violating Gov. Jay Inslees vaccination order for state employees, teachers and health care workers, such as firefighters, Keller said.

In the lawsuit the plaintiffs say that the COVID-19 vaccines were medical treatments and that they have a fundamental right and constitutionally protected liberty interest to refuse medical treatments.

The plaintiffs claimed that the vaccines resulted in a massively anomalous (1,000% higher) number of adverse events and deaths, and that the was no justification for the mandate because the vaccines dont prevent the infection or transmission of COVID.

Fleetwood lifted the vaccine mandate on Feb. 13, 2023.

In addition to the lawsuits, the Bellingham Police Guild, which is the union that represents Bellingham police officers, filed an unfair labor practice complaint against the city with the Public Employment Relations Commission on March 14, 2022, alleging that the city should have first bargained the union over the vaccine mandate, Keller told The Herald.

A PERC hearing examiner ruled April 26 that the city did not commit an unfair labor practice and dismissed the Guilds complaint in the attached decision. The Guild has 20 days to appeal the decision to the full commission.
Former Disney World employees share 8 of their favorite places to eat in the theme parks

Former Disney World employees share 8 of their favorite places to eat in the theme parks

Business Insider spoke with former Disney World employees about their favorite places to eat.

One restaurant offers attraction views, and another is themed after a classic Disney film.

Both sit-down and quick-service locations can offer high-quality cuisine and service.

Disney World vacations aren't cheap. A weeklong trip to the parks costs at least $6,000 for a family of four if they stay on the property.

If you're shelling out all that money, you want to ensure you're getting the best value  especially when it comes to the plentiful dining options in the parks.

Business Insider spoke with former Disney World employees about their favorite places to eat on the property.

Here's what they said.

Flame Tree Barbecue at Animal Kingdom is a must-try

For former Magic Kingdom employee Kaitlyn Cahalen, Flame Tree Barbecue is the main Animal Kingdom restaurant she frequents.

She specifically praised the quick-service location's baked mac and cheese with pulled pork.

"I have tried a couple of other restaurants in Animal Kingdom, but I always go back to Flame Tree Barbecue for this dish," she said.

Roundup Rodeo BBQ has great options for picky eaters

Roundup Rodeo BBQ is a newer restaurant in Hollywood Studios. Jenna Clark

If you're traveling to Disney World with picky eaters, Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios can be a lifesaver.

Kalyn Breisch, a former Disney College Program participant who worked at Epcot, told Business Insider that she can be picky. But she appreciates the lengthy list of sides on the menu.

"Roundup Rodeo is the perfect place to mix sides that you know you will like such as mac and cheese, but also be able to try ones like street corn."

Le Cellier offers an elevated in-park dining experience

Josie Maida Aguirre, former Disney World employee turned writer and content creator, enjoys the fancy vibes and higher-quality menu offerings at Le Cellier in the Canada Pavilion at Epcot.

"The food is incredible  always amazing," she said. "Steaks are great, and the desserts just cannot be missed."

Be Our Guest restaurant offers a themed atmosphere and high-quality cuisine

The main dining room looks like the ballroom from "Beauty and the Beast." Matt Stroshane/Walt Disney World

Although Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom is on the pricier side, Joyce Wingate Boyden, a former merchandise employee at Epcot and Magic Kingdom, is a big fan of the "Beauty and the Beast"-themed restaurant.

"The decor and theming is amazing, and it is so fun to feel like you're eating delicious food inside a movie set," she told BI. "The 'Grey Stuff' is delicious."

You can watch an attraction in action while eating at Pinocchio's Village Haus

Pinocchio's Village Haus gives diners a front-row view of the iconic Magic Kingdom ride It's a Small World.

Wingate Boyden recommended ordering one of the flatbread pizzas and sitting near a window to get the best view of guests boarding the attraction.

"It's fun to wave to them as they are floating by," she told BI

Casey's Corner is a go-to for comfort food and parade views

Casey's Corner serves things like hotdogs, corn-dog nuggets, and fries. Jenna Clark

If you're looking for a quick-service meal at Magic Kingdom but don't want to spend too much money, Casey's Corner on Main Street is a solid pick.

"The corn dog nuggets and fries will never let you down, and if you're lucky, you might get a table outside and catch a glimpse of the parade," Breisch said.

Hollywood & Vine hosts a lively character breakfast

As far as character-dining opportunities go, Wingate Boyden recommended Hollywood & Vine at Hollywood Studios.

"I love the buffet options and the character meet and greets," she told BI. "It's a special bonus to get pictures with favorite Disney characters while seated at a table."

The Hollywood Brown Derby offers one of the best salads on the property

The salad was coined at the original Brown Derby in California. Carly Caramanna

When it comes to quality salad, The Hollywood Brown Derby at Hollywood Studios does not disappoint.

"I love their Cobb Salad. First, because it's always delicious, and second because it reminds me of very happy memories of when my parents came to Disney World." Wingate Boyden said. "The decor and ambiance of the restaurant are beautiful and very enjoyable."

Read the original article on Business Insider
AUSTIN (KXAN)  A new community event space celebrated its grand opening recently in east Austin after a revitalization effort transformed the former 90s-era Mexican restaurant and bakery into a multipurpose venue.

The Citys Economic Development Department announced this week the grand opening of Assembly Hall on East Seventh Street near the Saltillo area.

The new community venue is the former site for Don Limons Mexican Restaurant and Bakery, which was built and opened in 1992.

According to reporting from 1997 from KXANs media partners at the Austin Business Journal, Don Limons opened with a $400,000 city economic development loan, plus a $550,000 loan from Texas Commerce, but it didnt attract the business needed to support the loan payments and taxes. The owners ultimately closed the restaurant in 1995 and declared bankruptcy.

The building was previously vacant before being renovated and opened as Assembly Hall.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Assembly Halls website describes the venue as a a new addition to East Austin brought to life in 2024 by the team behind Fair Market. Originally a Mexican bakery and restaurant turned office space for different local businesses over the years, the property has now been fully renovated to serve the community as a flexible event space.

Some of the features of the site include:

5,500 square-foot main hall

1,000 square-foot meeting room

2,000 square foot courtyard

catering kitchen

enhanced audio-visual facilities

gender-neutral bathrooms

green room with a private restroom

built-in bar

drive-in access for display vehicles

Renovation of the site was possible through the Economic Development Departments Family Business Loan Program, which is a public-private partnership between the City of Austin, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and private lenders, according to the city.

The city said the program offers low-interest loans to small businesses that are expanding and creating jobs and supports local businesses in increasing the tax base of the City of Austin and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

The opening of Assembly Hall has created 49 new jobs.

The city also noted a collaboration with the East Austin Hotel that is expected to create additional event opportunities and economic boost for the area.

The opening of Assembly Hall exemplifies our commitment to revitalizing East Austin and supporting local businesses, says Sylnovia Holt-Rabb, director of the Economic Development Department. We are excited to see this space become a community hub where residents can gather, celebrate, and engage in various activities. This project showcases our dedication to fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for all Austinites.

Assembly Hall is managed by the team behind the Fair Market event venue, which opened in 2014. Fair Market has hosted over 700 events, including fundraisers for nonprofits such as Out Youth, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and AIA Austin, as well as cultural events like Queerbomb and the Texas Woodworking Festival, according to the city.

Total funding for the project was $1,521,000 from the City of Austin, and the loan provider was Frontier Bank.

Those interested in booking Assembly Hall can find more information on its website, and details about the Family Business Loan Program are available on the City of Austins 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 KXAN Austin.
NEW YORK  One of Sen. Bob Menendezs former top aides testified Tuesday that the senator was uniquely focused on a criminal case against a real estate developer now accused of bribing him.

Michael Soliman, a key political adviser to the senator for over a decade, said the only criminal case Menendez ever asked him to talk to a prosecutor about involved the developer, Fred Daibes.

Menendez and Daibes are now co-defendants in a sprawling federal corruption trial underway in New York federal court.

Federal prosecutors say Menendez tried to disrupt a 2018 bank fraud case against Daibes because Daibes bribed the senator and his wife with cash, furniture and gold bars.

As part of that scheme, prosecutors allege that Menendez recommended President Joe Biden nominate the current U.S. Attorney for New Jersey, Philip Sellinger, for the post in an attempt to influence the outcome of the Daibes case.

Prosecutors theory is that Menendez originally wanted Sellinger, a close friend, for the job but then sidelined him because Sellinger said in late 2020 that he might have to recuse himself from the Daibes case. While in private practice at a major law firm, Sellinger had worked on what was basically a lawsuit against Daibes real estate interests.

Menendezs defense team has suggested Sellinger was sidelined because Bidens transition team was looking for diverse candidates.



But Soliman testified Sellinger had always been Menendezs first choice until Sellinger and the senator had a falling out.

While Soliman didnt know what the falling out was about at the time, prosecutors are counting on jurors to fill in the blanks.

Soliman testified that on Dec. 17, 2020, Menendez texted him looking to recommend someone other than Sellinger. Thats the day after Sellinger told Menendez he might have to recuse himself from the Daibes case, according to Sellinger, who took the stand before Soliman.

It was only months later, after Menendez came to believe that Sellinger would not have to recuse himself, did the senator recommend Sellinger for the U.S. Attorney job, according to prosecutors.

In the meantime, Menendez had decided to back Esther Suarez, a local prosecutor, but her candidacy flamed out and Sellinger reentered the picture.

Here Solimans testimony conflicted with Sellingers about the substance of a key phone call when it was clear Suarez was doomed.

According to Sellinger, Sellinger used a call with Soliman to explain the process he might have to go through to recuse himself.

According to Solimon, Sellinger was more pointed in the conversation. Soliman testified that Sellinger wanted me to let the senator know that he checked with [the Department of Justice] and that in fact he did not have to recuse himself from an issue.

Soliman said he passed on the message to Menendez, though Soliman didnt know until January 2022  after Sellinger had taken office in December 2021  that the message had been about the Daibes case.

By then, though, Sellinger did end up having to recuse himself from the Daibes case  which Soliman said left the senator confused and inquisitive about what Sellinger had said about not having to recuse himself and, eventually, frustrated with the U.S. Attorneys office.

But, on the stand, Soliman had trouble recalling the exact nature of a key text message he sent the senator after he talked with Sellinger about recusal. In the message, Soliman wrote to Menendez that youll be comfortable with what he says.

Prosecutors have suggested this was about recusal  but Soliman said he wasnt sure and it might have referred to something else.

That failure of recollection is something of a blow to prosecutors case. They found the statement so compelling that they included it in their indictment as a key piece of evidence about the alleged scheme.

But while Menendez may have had that legal victory on Tuesday, some of Solimans testimony and the evidence that accompanied it could hurt Menendezs bid to hold onto his seat by running as an independent.

In particular, Soliman portrayed the senators publicly reported intentions of recommending to Biden a diverse candidate for U.S. Attorney as a head fake.

Before mid-December 2020, for instance, Menendez had privately dismissed the idea that he would be recommending a Hispanic candidate to Biden.

In an email sent before the 2020 election, the senator said he worried that David Wildstein  the admitted architect of the infamous Bridgegate scandal, who now runs a political news website in New Jersey  would publish a story that suggested Menendez would help Biden nominate a Hispanic candidate for U.S. attorney.

I hope he doesnt write the Hispanic idea, Menendez wrote in an email to Soliman, as it will only add pressure for me to do something which I dont intend to.

Eventually, Menendez would recommend a Hispanic candidate, Suarez, but only after he abandoned Sellinger in mid-December 2020.

Thats when Menendez texted Soliman to do a little checking around about Salas, which may have been a misremembering or misspelling of "Suarez."

After that, Wildsteins site reported that Suarez was under consideration along with other names, including Jamel Semper, a prominent Black federal prosecutor.

Soliman testified that other names, including Sempers, were floated so Suarez wasn't alone in getting scrutiny at the time. Soliman already expected she would get scrutiny for her handling of a politically sensitive investigation involving a former aide to Gov. Phil Murphy.

But the plan didnt work, because Saurezs candidacy went down in flames amid press scrutiny. And floating Sempers name even backfired when a group of Black ministers came out in support of Semper  who, Soliman testified, Menendez was never serious about recommending to Biden for the U.S. Attorney job.

Soliman said Sempers name was floated because Wildstein had suggested the list of names Menendezs team was floating wasnt diverse enough.

Prosecutors showed an email from Menendez that seemed to confirm Soliman's account.

This is just great, the senator wrote Soliman after the Black ministers came out in support of Semper, calling it a lesson why you cant let Wildstein drive your decisions.

Menendezs defense team tried to suggest these unguarded messages were taken out of context and asked questions to suggest that Menendez did want to see Semper advanced either through promotion within the prosecutors office or by getting a federal judgeship, which Semper later did with Menendezs help.
Former NC Dept. of Revenue HR director accused of trying to meet child for sex

Police in California arrested the now-former human resources director with the North Carolina Department of Revenue after he allegedly tried to meet a 15-year-old for sex.

Harlan Frye was arrested last week in Long Beach, California. Officers say he thought he was meeting a teenager, but it was an online vigilante working undercover.

The vigilante, a TikTok user known as Black Biden, recorded the whole encounter with Frye before his arrest.

Frye was the HR director with the NCDOR but is no longer with the agency. His LinkedIn profile says he had more than 20 years of experience working in human resources.

According to jail records, Frye was released from jail on bond on June 13.

>>At 6, Channel 9s Joe Bruno walks through the on-camera exchange that led to Fryes arrest.

(VIDEO: Wanted man killed in shootout with deputies after being found guilty of child sex crimes)
A former North Braddock Police Officer is facing drug trafficking and providing police information to a drug trafficker, Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry announced Wednesday.

Henry says a grand jury recommended charges against Craig Gibson over alleged cocaine trafficking in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. Henry says the grand jurors heard evidence that Gibson was a drug runner for another man while he was also a police officer and that he provided privileged information to the supplier so the supplier could avoid being detected by police.

Gibson was charged Tuesday with felony corrupt organizations, delivery of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility, hindering apprehension or prosecution, obstructing administration of law, recklessly endangering another person, and criminal conspiracy. He was released on non-monetary bond and is scheduled to have a preliminary hearing on July 8.

The FBI started the investigation into the trafficking and the agency received assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police Western Organized Crime Unit. The still ongoing investigation involved surveillance and search warrants that provided evidence of drug trafficking, Henry said.

The arrest of a law enforcement officer accused of abusing his position to line his own pockets through the drug trade stands among the most dangerous and disheartening events for our community, said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. Trust lies at the cornerstone of protecting our communities, and it is critical to carrying out that mission. This investigation emphasizes the importance the FBI and our partners place on upholding the law, no matter who you are or what position you hold.

Through that investigation, Henry says investigators found communications between Gibson and the supplier about police presence and locations. He reportedly bragged about his access to police radios, the 9-1-1 dispatch system, and other resources that showed how many officers were on drug enforcement duties on any given night and their locations.

Gibson will be prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney Generals Drug Strike Force Section.

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This article originally appeared on SteelersNOW.com

The criminal case against former Pitt Panthers and Steel Valley defensive back Paris Ford will proceed after a preliminary hearing on Tuesday.

Ford was in court in front of magistrate Armand Martin on Tuesday and plead not guilty to four felony counts, one of which was added just before the hearing, and one misdemeanor. The case will now proceed to a formal arraignment in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas on Aug. 5.

The magistrate ruled that assistant district attorney Katie Simmers present enough evidence to show that a crime was committed and that Ford was the likely perpetrator. Defense counsel Wendy Williams frequently objected to the veracity of prosecution claims and said that no evidence presented directly connected Ford to the crime.

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KAKUMA, Kenya, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Kenya has hosted an estimated 775,000 refugees and asylum seekers from over 20 countries, according to the United Nations refugee agency.

Nanduri Sateesh, head of Sub Office at Kakuma at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)-Kenya, told Xinhua that 100,000 refugees are currently residing in urban areas.

"About 90 percent of the refugees are from Somalia, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, and Burundi," Sateesh said at the Kakuma refugee camp in northeast Kenya on Tuesday.

Dadaab refugee camps in northeast Kenya host 375,000 refugees, while the Kakuma refugee camp has about 288,000.

Sateesh said that about five years ago, the number of refugees was 500,000, but the figure has been increasing due to instability in the Eastern Africa region.

The UNHCR official added that refugees have also been streaming into Kenya to escape the effects of climate change, such as droughts. 
Lord Sumption said the criminalisation of more than 29,000 people was a 'miscarriage of justice' - PjrNews/Alamy Stock Photo

A former Supreme Court judge has backed calls for an amnesty for people given criminal convictions for breaking Covid rules.

Lord Sumption said the criminalisation of more than 29,000 people for breaches of rules during the pandemic was ridiculous and a miscarriage of justice.

But he said he doubted that either the Tories or Labour would seek to wipe the slate clean by introducing any statute to grant an amnesty to the 29,383 people so far convicted by the courts.

Both Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer failed to back calls for an amnesty on Wednesday.

Lord Sumption said those given criminal convictions during the pandemic were 'victims of a stupid set of legal priorities'

Lord Sumption, a member of the Supreme Court from 2012 to 2018, was responding to the calls by charities and former Cabinet ministers, including Sir Robert Buckland, the former justice secretary, to wipe their slates clean for offences such as attending gatherings, leaving home during lockdowns and failing to wear face coverings.

Unlike politicians such as Mr Sunak who were handed fixed penalty notices, thousands received criminal convictions after being found guilty by courts because they contested the fines or failed to pay them.

These could hamper their job prospects as police can pass on the details to potential employers if they are deemed relevant for criminal background checks for sensitive jobs such as teaching, social work and policing where applicants deal with vulnerable people or children.

People are also required to declare Covid convictions when applying for visas to visit countries such as the United States and Canada. Both countries reserve the right to permanently ban anyone who fails to reveal a conviction.

Lord Sumption said: People were victims of a miscarriage of justice. They were victims of a stupid set of legal priorities. He added that the laws were absurdly draconian and criminalised people on a ridiculous scale.

It was a fundamental failure to treat people as grown-ups with judgments of their own to make, he said.

The reason I would support [wiping the slate clean] is that I rejected the whole system at the time.

However, he said any attempt to implement an amnesty would require a statutory intervention, probably by regulation rather than primary legislation. Such a move would probably not be backed by a Tory government, because it would require it to acknowledge that it was not a sensible way to go about enforcing social distancing.

He predicted it would have no traction at all with Labour and was likely to be at the bottom of their priority list. Instead, Lord Sumption said it was important to learn the lessons for next time.

Mr Sunak said on Wednesday that he was not familiar with the calls by Sir Robert, who oversaw the courts during Covid.

This election is about the future, Mr Sunak said. Covid was a very difficult time for our country, right? And that was followed by a war in Ukraine. This election is about how do we build going forward.

He added: When it comes to Covid, its important we learn all the lessons of Covid and thats why we have a full public inquiry.

Mr Sunak was fined for a Covid rule breach, receiving a fixed penalty notice for attending a birthday party for Boris Johnson in the Cabinet room in June 2020. The then prime minister was also fined.

Out of touch

Sir Keir dismissed calls for an amnesty, saying: I mean, seriously? They want Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunaks convictions to be removed in some great amnesty? Come on. Many, many people paid a very high price in that pandemic.

The now Prime Minister and his predecessor bar one were convicted of breaking the rules that theyve put in place and if they dont understand how deep that goes for people that just reinforces how out of touch they are.

However, Mr Johnson and Mr Sunak would not be affected by any amnesty as they have not got criminal convictions. The 29,000 were subject to court fines totalling 26 million, which was higher than for any other type of crime since the start of the pandemic other than motoring offences and TV licence evasion.

The court-issued sanctions come on top of at least 8.2 million that people paid after being handed fixed penalty notices by police, an alternative to prosecution.

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CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A former worker at Fish House North in Charlotte who robbed the business and shot three employees in 2021 has been sentenced to more than 34 years in prison, according to the United States Attorneys Office.

On Monday, June 17, 49-year-old Robert Lee Barringer was sentenced to 412 months followed by five years of supervised release for the armed robbery of the business.

READ MORE: CMPD: Fired worker returns to Fish House North with gun; robs restaurant and shoots 3 employees

The violent incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. on Monday, July 26, 2021, at the Fish House North located at 4554 N. Tryon Street. As CMPD officers got to the scene of the reported robbery and shooting, they found three employees inside with apparent gunshot wounds.

All three people were transported to the hospital with minor injuries, police said.

After shooting the victims, Barringer ordered one of them to hand over the keys to the register and forced another victim to open it. Barringer reportedly stole $3,500 from the business and ran from the scene.

On July 28, 2021, Barringer was found in a Charlotte hotel and arrested.

Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area  >> Latest stories here

On August 5, 2022, Barringer was found guilty of interference with commerce by robbery, and use, carry, and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, officials said.

He has a lengthy criminal history of federal and state charges including assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a firearm by a felon.

Authorities say Barringer will stay in federal custody pending the designation of a federal facility by the federal Bureau of Prisons.

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Fox Host Confronts J.D. Vance With Awkward List Of His Most Vehement Anti-Trump Swipes

Fox News host Bret Baier on Tuesday listed off some of the harshest things that Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) has said about Donald Trump, and asked the senator about his supposed evolution on the former president.

Vance, reportedly a contender to be Trumps 2024 vice presidential pick, was once fiercely critical of the former president, but reinvented himself as a staunch Trump ally, ultimately nabbing Trumps endorsement during his 2022 Senate campaign.

Youve said: Im a never-Trump guy, never liked him, terrible candidate, idiot if you voted for him, might be Americas Hitler, might be a cynical a-hole, cultural heroin, noxious and reprehensible, Baier pointed out.

Baier told Vance that the left could seize on those comments, and theyre probably gonna be put in ads, should you be chosen as the VP pick.

How do you deal with them now? he asked.

Look, I was wrong about Donald Trump, Vance said. I didnt think he was gonna be a good president, Bret. He was a great president. And its one of the reasons why Im working so hard to make sure he gets a second term.

Bret Baier reads J.D. Vance a list of things he's said about Donald Trump:



"I'm a never-Trump guy"

"I never liked him"

"Terrible candidate"

"Idiot if you voted for him"

"Might be America's Hitler"

"Might be a cynical a**hole"

"Cultural Heroin"

"Noxious"

"Reprehensible" pic.twitter.com/NVO0gRGyHZ  Republican Voters Against Trump (@AccountableGOP) June 19, 2024

Vance has previously expressed similar sentiments when asked about his flip-flop.

During his Senate run, super PACs supporting his opponent invested in attack ads that featured Vances past anti-Trump remarks, including since-deleted tweets from 2016 calling Trump an idiot and reprehensible.

Vances former college roommate, then-Georgia state Rep. Josh McLaurin (D), also came forward during the campaign with a screenshot of a 2016 message he received from Vance that described Trump as either a cynical asshole or Americas Hitler.

McLaurin said he shared the message to demonstrate the magnitude of this guys bad faith.

Vance was one of the Republican lawmakers who flocked to Trumps criminal trial last month to show fealty as the former president fought felony charges of falsifying business records to conceal a 2016 hush money payment. Trump was ultimately found guilty on all counts.

Related...
Fox News Kayleigh McEnany attacked President Bidens campaign for doing cheap fakes after the White House addressed a string of edited videos depicting the president looking confused or wandering off.

McEnany and the other co-hosts of Fox News Outnumbered on Tuesday discussed White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierres comments about a number of videos of Biden that circulated online in recent days. Jean-Pierre had referenced a Washington Post report that described some of the videos as cheap fakes.

McEnany suggested that it was the Biden campaign spreading cheap fakes, by showing screenshots of three separate posts on social media platform X from the Biden-Harris HQ account. She posted a clip of her own comments on X, telling users to check out all of the misquoting or mischaracterizing of Trump coming from the Biden campaign.

These are cheap fakes. So, Karine Jean-Pierre. You want to talk about bad faith? Look in the mirror, go march down to Delaware. Talk to your campaign. Youre the one doing cheap fakes, she said, referring to the posts from the Biden-Harris HQ account.

Jean-Pierre was responding to videos of Biden that stemmed from his trip to France earlier this month, his visit to Italy last week and his appearance at a fundraiser Saturday. She said Monday that the videos that appear to show the president confused were done in bad faith.

It tells you everything that we need to know about how desperate Republicans are here, she said.

And instead of talking about the presidents performance in office, and what I mean by that is his legislative wins, what hes been able to do for the American people across the country, were seeing these deepfakes, these manipulated videos, she continued. And it is, again, done in bad faith.

The New York Post shared a video last week that showed Biden with other Group of Seven (G7) leaders in Italy watching a skydiving demonstration. In the video shared by The New York Post, it looked like Biden was walking away from the skydivers once they landed. A community note below the post states that the video was cropped.

The New York Post also reported on Biden attending the event in Los Angeles over the weekend under the headline Biden appears to freeze up, has to be led off stage by Obama at mega-bucks LA fundraiser. White House and aides for former President Obama pushed back on this characterization of Biden.

The Hill has reached out to the White House and the Biden campaign for comment.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Fox News is already erupting over the news that President Biden is granting legal protections to a half-million undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens. On the network, MAGA diehards are deriding the move as an illegal exercise of executive power, which is rich coming from backers of Donald Trump, who openly vows to throw his political enemies in jail with zero legal basis if reelected president.

But that aside, theres a key tell buried in all this reaction: It seizes on this new Biden executive action to refocus the argument on the state of the border, which is not seriously relevant to the policy, as it grants relief to longtime immigrant residents. This shows that Fox and MAGA cannot allow the immigration debate to focus on that population, because it is largely viewed sympathetically by the voting public.

Going rogue on the border, insisted one Fox News anchor, speaking about Bidens announcement. In segment after segment collected by Media Matters, Fox interspersed the news with Bidens Border Crisis chyrons, visuals of migrants swarming the border, discussion of drug cartels and great replacement theory, and even migrant mug shots.

Meanwhile, on-air figures insisted the policy will lead to more illegal border crossing and that Biden is rewarding people for breaching the border. One even invoked the horrific murder of a young Maryland woman, Rachel Morin, allegedly by a recently arrived migrant, thus insinuating the policy is a massive blow to border security that will unleash more crime and mayhem.

MAGA personalities echoed this line off of Fox as well. Biden to give unconstitutional amnesty to illegal aliens during a border invasion, raged Trump immigration adviser Stephen Miller. Arkansas GOP Senator Tom Cotton also linked the policy to the murder of Morin, and the Republican National Committee did the same while railing about Morins murder at the hands of a BIDEN ILLEGAL.

Its a disgusting smear. Bidens action will allow undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to apply for parole in place, letting them temporarily remain lawfully here despite originally entering illegally, while they seek lawful permanent resident statusthat is, green cards.

Importantly, federal law already allows U.S. citizens to petition for green cards for undocumented spouses. But under the law many must leave the country first (often for up to three or 10 years) to apply. The new policy would simply allow those undocumented spousesprovided theyve been here at least 10 years and meet other conditionsto remain lawfully here and get work permits while entering that already existing application process for legal status. This lets them work lawfully and come out of the shadows while preventing the needless breakup of families along the way.

Its despicable to tar these 500,000 people with this heinous murder allegedly by a vicious thug. They are married to American citizens and have lived here for at least a decade. As FWD.Us details, many have deep roots in communities across the country, have long been working or have started businesses here, and are raising American children.

One particularly absurd GOP argument is that parole for these people will operate as a pull factor incentivizing more illegal border crossing. But by definition, it cannot function that way, since it applies only to those who have been here for 10 years as of mid-June, notes Cato Institute analyst David Bier.

People are coming here because there are jobs, opportunities, and safety, Bier said. Not because they plan to sneak across, marry an American, and then hope another president will let them apply for legal residence in 10 years. The theory is laughable.

Nor is the policy a grotesque abuse of power. According to officials, the parole programs legal basis is federal law that affords the executive authority to grant parole to undocumented migrants on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. That plainly applies to this population.

Yes, implementing the policy on a lawful case-by-case basis is complicated, and Republicans may sue. But put simply, Congress created the executive discretion Biden is using. Dozens of legal scholars have signed a new letter defending the move as a faithful exercise of that authority in keeping with the laws intent to give administrations tools to treat certain migrants humanely in unforeseen circumstances.

Marielena Hincapie, a visiting scholar at Cornell Law School, points out that parole in place was used by the administration of President George W. Bush to grant protections to undocumented spouses of individual military families, and President Barack Obama made it policy for those families more broadly. Now Biden is extending this long-established policy used by Republican and Democratic administrations to benefit America families, Hincapie said.

Given all that history, theres something highly revealing about the Fox and MAGA descent into such vile demagoguery. Miller, Trump, and others enthuse about launching mass deportations, but they often describe this as the removal of a dangerous, amorphous enemy class within. Bidens new move highlights that many of those people are deeply connected to U.S. communities and to countless American families. These real people are harder to demagogue, so Republicans are shouting: Look over there at the border instead!

All this confirms a larger point. When Biden announced new limits on asylum in early June, some analysts saw it as evidence that he must embrace stricter border security to win reelection. But thats only half the story. While the border is a real problem for Democrats, the Biden approach is to combine restrictions on asylum-seeking by unlawful border crossers with reforms making it easier for people to immigrate and integrate in a rules-bound, orderly way.

Bidens asylum restrictions arguably have indefensibly gone too far. But his recent moves do not vindicate the politics of Trumpism or show that Biden is getting more Trumpian on the substance, as we often hear. Their approaches are fundamentally different. Trump vows to expel the whole undocumented population via giant detention camps and even the military. Biden is restricting asylum while also paroling into the country tens of thousands of migrants who apply from abroad each month (broadening legal pathways to shift incentives away from trekking to the border), extending Temporary Protected Status to others where possible, and now, granting protections to hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses of American citizens.

That combination should allow Biden to draw a contrast with Trump. Biden needs to make this about something larger than the borderabout immigration as a positive good for the countrywhile pitting his humane treatment of undocumented migrants living here or seeking alternative pathways to entry against Trumps threat to inflict extraordinary cruelty, disruption, and suffering via mass removal of millions.

Time will tell if this contrast will work. But we know this right now: Fox and MAGA need the argument to be all about faceless, menacing hordes of invaders and criminals. The last thing they want is for voters to focus on who all these undocumented immigrants in our midst actually are.
(Bloomberg) -- France and Italy were reprimanded by the European Union for running big deficits, the first stage in a confrontation that will test the blocs resolve and could in theory prompt billions of euros in fines.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The announcement by the European Commission on Wednesday is all the more consequential with French legislative elections looming that have rattled investors on the prospect that a winner from either the far-right or the left will only further bloat the countrys public finances.

In total, seven nations newly face censure by officials for running budget shortfalls above the blocs 3% limit, leaving them subject to the blocs so-called Excessive Deficit Procedure that requires remedial action and can lead to fines for non compliance.

Fiscal sustainability challenges are low in all EU member states in the short term, while being elevated in the medium and long term in several countries, due to projected high and/or increasing debt ratios in some member states, the commission said.

Of the countries listed, France and Italy draw the most attention because of their sheer size as the euro zones second- and third-biggest economies respectively, each with debts noticeably in excess of 100% of gross domestic product. Romania was already facing a reprimand, and other nations joining it now are Belgium, Hungary, Malta, Poland and Slovakia.

In France, the move raises the stakes for whoever wins the snap election called by President Emmanuel Macron that will take place within the next three weeks. His party is currently in third place, while the far-right National Rally and the leftist alliance vying for office have signaled a more aggressive stance to Brussels.

An all-out dispute would have disquieting parallels with the euro-zone debt crisis, when the currencys integrity was threatened as investors panicked over standoffs between EU institutions and heavily indebted European governments such as Greece.

Macrons election announcement already inspired echoes of that turmoil, with the spread between French and German bonds widening as a result, and ripple effects seen with Italy and other nations in the region.

The yield premium investors demand to hold 10-year French debt over German notes remained two basis points higher at 79 basis points, the most since 2017, after the release of the report.

The spread has climbed 32 basis points since Macron called for snap elections, sending markets into a tailspin. Some investors say the gap could eventually reach 100 basis points, a level last seen when the euro-zone sovereign debt crisis was in full swing

The European Central Bank  an institution which could find itself at the front line of any crisis fighting  added its own voice of concern on Wednesday with a report calling on euro-area members to start cutting debt immediately in the face of enormous long-term fiscal risks from aging populations, defense spending and climate change.

The commissions announcement is the culmination of years of recalibrating the blocs debt and deficit regime. The revamped rules could allow for greater enforcement through fines, in contrast to a system of sanctions that was never previously activated.

The next stage will be the delivery of medium-term plans by countries by Sept. 20 that commit to a ceiling for net spending growth for the next four years, followed by assessments of them by the commission in November stipulating a fiscal path to follow to balance their books.

The regime, known as the Stability and Growth Pact, was suspended for the duration of the pandemic to permit largescale support spending, which was then followed by support measures during the recent cost of living crisis.

The fiscal damage is still being felt. In France, debt is projected by Brussels to keep rising and reach close to 114% of output next year. Last month, S&P Global Ratings downgraded the country, highlighting missed goals in the governments deficit-reduction plans.

Italys debt ratio, which fell last year to 137%, is now increasing again too, putting the country on course to surpass Greece with the regions biggest pile of borrowings within three years, according to Scope Ratings.

In contrast to Macron, whose party was trounced in the European Parliament elections earlier this month, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is currently riding high, controlling a strong majority and politically bolstered by her own victory in that region-wide vote.

But the government in Rome is lumbered with a particularly onerous legacy from the pandemic, which hit the country before many others and then inspired a home-renovation measure called superbonus that is set to haunt its public finances for years to come.

The EUs warning will inevitably lead to a dilemma for Meloni, as she weighs whether to bow to Brussels and abandon campaign promises including an expensive tax cut on wages that would set her back by about 10 billion euros ($10.7 billion). That could cause cracks in her coalition, particularly from rival and League leader Matteo Salvini.

The commissions announcement granted a reprieve to Spain, Estonia and the Czech Republic, whose deficits exceeded the blocs 3% limit last year.

In the case of Spain, the euro zones fourth-biggest economy, its debt exceeds 100% of output but is now on a downward trajectory, in contrast to the situations in France and Italy.

Romania was already subject to an Excessive Deficit Procedure. Officials criticized the countrys lack of action to fix its fiscal and economic situation. One, speaking on condition of anonymity, observed its failure to act as extremely worrying.

--With assistance from Mark Schroers and James Hirai.

(Updates with market reaction in ninth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
The Ukrainian Defense Industry, a state-owned enterprise, has signed three agreements with the French defense company Thales, according to a statement published on Thales's website on June 19.

The deals were signed under the aegis of the French Armed Forces Ministry and Ukraine's Strategic Industries Ministry, the statement read.

One of the agreements announces an intention to create a joint venture in Ukraine to boost the delivery of military gear in the country. The deal includes electronic warfare, tactical communications equipment, air defense systems, and radars.

Thales also pledges to provide extensive maintenance, testing, and specialized training, specifically in electronic warfare, according to the second agreement. It aims to develop local maintenance capability within Ukraine, as well as ensure its "best operational availability."

A third agreement was signed by Thales and the Ukrainian company FRDM, which specializes in unmanned aerial vehicles(UAV) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGV),

The deal stipulates co-developing and manufacturing "an unmanned aircraft system capable of carrying and releasing munitions."

"Thales is a long-standing partner to the Ukrainian forces, collaborating for more than 10 years, first in electronic warfare and then expanding to a broad range of programs," Pascale Sourisse, the company's senior executive vice president, said.

"Moving forward, they (the agreements) also demonstrate our commitment, through collaboration with leading Ukrainian players and suppliers, to establish a longer-term foothold in Ukraine and bolster the country's local defense industry."

France has backed Ukraine since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022 by sending military equipment and providing financial aid.

Paris also wants to establish a coalition of countries to send military instructors to Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron said on June 7.

Read also: Producer of Caesar howitzers to set up branch in Ukraine

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ROME, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The World Food Forum (WFF) on Tuesday announced a week of activities in restaurants worldwide, as part of the United Nations' "Sustainable Gastronomy Day", aimed at encouraging youth to reduce food waste.

Named "Sustainable Gastronomy Restaurant Week" (SGRW), the one-week event is the first of its kind, built upon the theme of "More Taste, Less Waste". The SGRW partnered with restaurants owned by young chefs to create a co-branded menu or items for the campaign. These dishes use fresh, seasonal ingredients and follow culinary guidelines to help reduce food waste and emissions.

According to the WFF, around 17 percent of food is wasted at the retail and consumer levels. Sustainable gastronomy aims to avoid waste as well as any harm to our natural resources. True sustainable cooking can be practiced without being detrimental to our environment or health.

At the launch event, Lindsey Hook, Head of Culture at the WFF, said that the campaign is to inspire all those involved in the agrifood system, including consumers, to make better choices about food production and consumption. "It aims to highlight the leadership role of youth as chefs and entrepreneurs in sustainable gastronomy," said Hook.

"Young innovative chefs worldwide, like young farmers, are underestimated and not visible to the public enough," Glindys Virginia Luciano, an expert from the European organization EIT Food, told Xinhua. "It is important to support them in making contributions to sustainable development."

Launched in 2021, WFF is an independent global network of partners, facilitated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Sustainable Gastronomy Day, celebrated every year on June 18 since 2017, was introduced by the FAO and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to promote food security, agricultural development, sustainable food production, nutrition and the conservation of biodiversity. 
TIOGA COUNTY, Pa. (WETM)  The Moving Wall, a half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be making its way to Tioga County, Pennsylvania, next month, and a local transportation company is providing veterans with a way to get there to see the opening ceremony.

The Moving Wall will be on display at Williamson High School in Tioga from Wednesday, July 10, until Monday, July 15. An opening ceremony for the exhibit will take place on July 10 at 3 p.m. to kick off the walls arrival.

Vietnam Moving Wall coming to Tioga, Pa.

To make sure that all veterans who would like to attend the ceremony are able to make it, BeST Transit, a transportation provider that provides services to Bradford, Sullivan and Tioga counties, is offering a free ride to all veterans in the area who are not able to make it to the event themselves by providing a transit bus, which is handicapped-accessible.

The BeST bus will pick up veterans who sign up for a ride at different spots scattered throughout Tioga County beginning at noon. The bus will arrive at the school at 2 p.m. and will leave the school 30 minutes after the opening ceremony ends. A list of where the pick-up spots will be can be found below.

North Route

Riverside Manor in Westfield 250 Race Street 12:30 p.m.

Knoxville Fire Hall 107 Case Street 1 p.m.

Osceola Fire Hall 7654 State Route 49 1:15 p.m.

Forestview Manor in Elkland 101 Forestview Avenue 1:20 p.m.

Elkland High School 110 Addison Hill Road 1:30 p.m.

The Old Kwik Fill Route 287 1:45 p.m.



South Route

American Legion in Blossburg South Williamson Road Noon

Riverside Park in Blossburg 1 Diehr Street 12:10 p.m.

Blossburg VFW 348 North Williamson Road 12:15 p.m.

Mansfield VFW, Sherwood Manor in Mansfield and Mansfield Plaza 1208 South Main Street 1 Novelty Place North Main Street 12:30 p.m.

Pinnacle Towers in Wellsboro 10 Cole Street #603 1 p.m.

Park Hill Manor in Wellsboro 21 Grant Street 1:10 p.m.

Dandy Mini Mart in Middlebury Center 11196 Route 287 1:30 p.m.

Tioga VFW 18536 Route 287 1:45 p.m.



If you or a veteran that you know is in need of a ride to the ceremony, you can schedule one by calling BeST Transit at 570-659-5330.

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 WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Former Israeli hostage Ada Sagi, 75, who was kidnapped by the Hamas-allied group Islamic Jihad on Oct. 7 last year, said she was held in both civilian homes and a hospital in and around the city of Khan Younis in Gaza before she was released as part of an exchange for Palestinian prisoners in November 2023.

In an interview aired Wednesday, Sagi told CBS News partner network BBC News that she was taken by two kidnappers on a motorcycle from her home in Kibbutz Nir Oz into Gaza on Oct. 7. She said she was forced to leave her shoes behind, and her foot was badly burned by the exhaust pipe of the bike. She said she was put between her two captors on the motorcycle, one of whom had a Kalashnikov.

When they got into Gaza, she said she was put into a car and told by her kidnappers that they were from Islamic Jihad, which, like Hamas, has long been designated as a terrorist group by Israel and the U.S. She said she was informed that her captors wanted to keep her to use in a potential prisoner swap. Sagi and another female hostage were brought to a family home where children lived, where they were given food and a doctor was brought to look at her burn, she said.

A poster with an image of Ada Sagi, taken hostage from the Nir Oz Kibbutz during the surprise attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, is pictured during a press conference hosted by Defend Israeli Democracy UK, in London on October 12, 2023. / Credit: HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP via Getty Images

"Then we started to hear the bombs from the Israeli army. I was very terrified, because I know the bombs from the other side, from Nir Oz, but on this side it was very terrifying. All the house was shaking," Sagi told the BBC.

The next day, Sagi and the other hostage were moved from the east of Khan Younis to an apartment in the center of the city.

"You feel it was arranged, all the apartment, for hostages. The owner of the apartment and two guard[s] were students that needed money. I heard they say it's 70 shekel [about $19] for a day. It's a lot of money in Gaza," Sagi said. "From the beginning, the owner of the apartment said: 'You are like my mother. You are old and I take care for you.' I didn't believe, but it was like this because he gave me the medication for the foot. They try to keep us with good health, but the foot was not okay and I was very weak."

Sagi said that on the 49th day of her captivity, she was brought to the southern city of Rafah for an expected prisoner exchange, but there was a delay, so she was brought back to a hospital in Khan Younis where she was told she would spend the night.

She said there were "17 people from Nir Oz in several rooms" being held by militants at the hospital.

"People that are saying that they are no[t] involved  they are involved. They're getting money from Hamas. Our housekeeper's the same. He get the money. And I ask him: 'You say you are not Hamas, you are not [Islamic] Jihad. What? You take my freedom, and I am here?'" She said the housekeeper responded: "'I want to buy visa for my children and my wife to go out from Gaza.'".

"They have no money. So much poverty there," she told the BBC.

Sagi said the world's reaction to the war between Israel and Hamas has made her "crazy."

"Every time, in every war, antisemitism raise her head. But this time, it's worse," Sagi said. "The world hates us, and I think they don't know the truth."

Sagi said her community has been destroyed.

"It was like Holocaust, but in the Holocaust, we have no army. You have no Israel. Now, we have Israel," she said.

Sagi said for many years she taught Arabic in schools to promote peace in the region, but her time as a hostage made her believe the future she envisioned is no longer possible.

"I understood the Hamas don't want it. Also, people who believe in peace are afraid from Hamas. No chance to do something with them," she said. "Israel has to do the deal, what Biden and Bibi saying, to stop the war, bring back home all these hostages who is alive and who is dead."

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(Bloomberg) -- The head of Frances Medef business lobby criticized the campaign programs of both the far right and an alliance of leftist parties, saying they are a danger to the economy.

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Marine Le Pens National Rally would cut the country off from the European Union, Patrick Martin told Le Figaro newspaper. He also slammed the partys plans to reverse President Emmanuel Macrons reforms of unemployment insurance and pensions, and slash the value added tax.

The policies of the New Popular Front, which groups Socialists, Communists, Greens and the far-left France Unbowed, would lead to 200 billion ($215 billion) in extra public spending a year, meanwhile, financed by taxes or the deficit, he added.

The National Rallys program is dangerous for the French economy, growth and jobs; that of the New Popular Front is just as dangerous, if not more, Martin said. Its staggering that the international economic situation is taken so little into account in the programs, as if France was a small island cut off from the world.

The comments come a day before Medef is due to grill the main political groups on their election pledges as the focus of the campaign turns to business and the economy with only 10 days until the first round of the snap vote.

In the week following Macrons surprise decision to dissolve parliament on June 9, a market selloff wiped $258 billion from the market capitalization of French companies, while the extra yield investors demand to hold French debt over German peers surged. Paris has also lost its crown as Europes biggest equity market to London.

Martin, who said he was astonished by Macrons decision, said he fears a debt crisis.

We saw how the financial markets reacted strongly after the dissolution was announced, he said. Theyll probably react even more strongly if all these measures are put in place.

Valerie Rabault, a Socialist candidate and former budget recorder, told Les Echos newspaper in an interview published Wednesday that she estimates the New Popular Fronts program would lead to new spending of 106 billion ($114 billion) through 2027.

Meloni Contrast

National Rally head Jordan Bardella has said he plans to take a responsible approach to economic policy, saying his first move as premier would be to conduct an independent audit of public finances that would determine the capacity for economic reforms and an overhaul of public services.

Asked whether the National Rally may copy Italys Giorgia Meloni if it wins power and not implement its economic program, Martin said the party would have to change course through 180 degrees for the comparison to be pertinent.

Meloni is liberal economy-wise  I dont think, for example, that she would have proposed reversing the pension reform  and shes much less anti-European than the National Rally, Martin said.

On Thursday morning, business leaders will have the chance to hear from Bardella, as well as representatives from the New Popular Front, Horizons and the conservative Republicans, as well as Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire. Each will set out their pitch before fielding questions.

Polls show the National Rally is likely to get the largest share of the first-round vote, followed by the leftist alliance, with Macrons party and allies third. However, Frances two-round voting system means its hard to predict who will ultimately get the most seats in the National Assembly.

(Updates with comments from Medef head starting in seventh paragraph.)

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President of the French far-right RN party Bardella visits Eurosatory defence exhibition to campaign for early legislative elections

PARIS (Reuters) - French far-right leader Jordan Bardella said on Wednesday that he backed Ukraine's right to defend itself against Russia, but if elected prime minister he would not provide Kyiv with missiles that would allow it to strike Russia's territory.

He also said he would standby France's commitments to the NATO military alliance if he became prime minister.

Bardella's National Rally (RN) party leads opinion polls ahead of June 30 and July 7 snap parliamentary elections, which has led to questions over the foreign policy implications if they win enough seats to form a government.

"I wish for Ukraine to have at disposal the ammunition and equipment it needs to hold the front, but my red line will not change, which is sending equipment that could have consequences of escalation in eastern Europe," Bardella told reporters at the Eurosatory arms fair near Paris.

"And so I don't plan to send, especially, long-range missiles or other weapons that will allow Ukraine to strike the Russian territory. My position has not changed and will not change  it's about support for Ukraine and avoiding all risks of escalation in the region. And I think the risk of escalation is of course real."

Even if the RN was to run France's government, Emmanuel Macron would remain as president, and the head of France's army.

But the constitution also gives the prime minister a role in terms of defence, with the division of power not clear cut.

Macron would lose control over the domestic agenda, including economic policy, security, immigration and finances, which would in turn impact other policies, such as aid to Ukraine, as he would need parliament's backing to finance any support as part of France's annual budget.

Bardella also said he would keep France's commitments towards its partners, including on increasing defence spending.

"I don't plan to put into question the commitments made by France on the international level, because there's a stake regarding credibility towards our European partners as well as towards our NATO allies," he said.

"And so I plan to pursue the efforts of rearmament of the country, both in terms of its defence capabilities, increasing the military budget through budgetary efforts put in place in past years, which we have supported," he added.

(Reporting by Ardee Napolitanno; writing by Sudip Kar-Gupta; editing by Ingrid Melander and Sharon Singleton)
French far-right leader Bardella says he backs Ukraine, but rules out sending troops or long-range weapons

Jordan Bardella, the leader of the far-right French National Rally party, said on June 19 that he would continue supporting Ukraine if elected prime minister, but ruled out sending French troops or supplying the country with long-range weapons.

Following a bruising defeat in the elections for the European Parliament earlier in June, French President Emmanuel Macron called for snap elections to be held on June 30 and July 7.

National Rally is ahead in current polls, and Bardella could be the next prime minister if the party is able to form a governing coalition. Macron would nonetheless remain president and retain control of most of France's foreign policy decisions.

"My position has not changed, and that is to support Ukraine by providing defense equipment, ammunition, operational logistical support, and defensive weaponry to enable Ukraine to protect itself to hold the front," Bardella told reporters at the Eurosatory arms show outside of Paris.

"I don't plan to send, especially, long-range missiles or other weapons that will allow Ukraine to strike the Russian territory," Bardella added.

France has sent Ukraine long-range SCALP missiles, which can hit targets up to 250 (155 miles) kilometers away. SCALP missiles have been put to use to hit valuable Russian military targets in occupied Crimea.

After months of discussion, Macron said earlier in June that France was finalizing a coalition of countries to send military instructors to Ukraine.

Bardella's election may complicate that plan, as he said he is "opposed to sending French troops and soldiers to Ukraine" and characterized it as a "red line."

At the same time, Bardella walked back some of the National Rally's previous foreign policy positions, including some controversial proposals that suggested a rapprochement with Russia.

"I don't intend to weaken France's voice and commitment on the international stage, and I'll be extremely respectful of that," he said.

Bardella also reiterated that he condemned Russia's "violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity" but cautioned that he wanted to "avoid any risk of escalation with Russia because Russia is a nuclear power, and I am committed to the return of peace and political stability in this region."

Read also: European elections: Far-right gains, center holds, Ukraine-skeptics flounder

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French far-right leader Jordan Bardella said on Wednesday that he supports Ukraine's right to defend itself against Russian aggression. However, he added that if he was elected prime minister, he would not support the transfer of missiles to Kyiv that would let it strike targets on the Russian territory.

Source: Bardella at the Eurosatory arms fair near Paris, as quoted by Reuters; European Pravda

Details: Bardella's National Union party is leading in opinion polls ahead of the 30 June and 7 July snap parliamentary elections.

Quote: "I wish for Ukraine to have at [its] disposal the ammunition and equipment it needs to hold the front, but my red line will not change, which is sending equipment that could have consequences of escalation in eastern Europe.

And so I don't plan to send, especially, long-range missiles or other weapons that will allow Ukraine to strike Russian territory. My position has not changed and will not change  it's about support for Ukraine and avoiding all risks of escalation in the region. And I think the risk of escalation is, of course, real."

Details: Meanwhile, even if the National Rally leads the French government, Emmanuel Macron will remain president and superior commander of the French army. France is currently providing Ukraine with long-range SCALP missiles.

At the same time, the French constitution also gives the prime minister a role in defence matters, although the division of powers is not clear.

If the National Rally wins the election, Macron will lose control of the domestic agenda, including the matters of economic policy, security, immigration and finance, which in turn will affect other policies such as aid to Ukraine, as he will need the support of parliament to fund any aid within the French annual budget.

Bardella also said that he would honour France's commitments to its partners, including the increasing defence spending.

Quote: "I don't plan to put into question the commitments made by France on the international level, because there's a stake regarding credibility towards our European partners as well as towards our NATO allies.

And so I plan to pursue the efforts of rearmament of the country, both in terms of its defence capabilities, increasing the military budget through budgetary efforts put in place in past years, which we have supported."

Background:

Recently, the French far-right National Rally party removed part of its defence programme from its website, abandoning the sections that suggested deepening ties with Russia, ending cooperation projects with Germany, and withdrawing from NATO's Joint Military Command.

The formal leader of the National Rally in France, Jordan Bardella, said that he only wanted to lead a potential right-wing government if it won an absolute majority of seats, so as not to "collaborate with Macron".

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The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel summer intern class of 2024: (front, left to right) Siddhant Pusdekar (standing), Chesnie Wardell (on stool), Jane Park, Angelika Ytuarte, Katherine Loren and Rachel Hale. (back, left to right), Max Correa, Zoe Jaeger, Jolan Kruse, Kathryn Muchnick, Tristan Hernandez and Wynton Jackson.

One of the most compelling series of stories last summer concerned the evacuation of two apartment buildings contaminated by cancer-causing chemicals, and the discovery that some Milwaukee officials knew residents were living there  yet said nothing.

What made the work especially remarkable was that it was largely reported by two college interns, Yash Roy from Yale University and Sophia Vento from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

At the Journal Sentinel, our interns dont fetch coffee or sit in the corner taking phone calls. They have desks amid our staff, come up with their own ideas or take assignments from editors, and face deadlines like the rest of us. We adjust our expectations based on their abilities, and go out of our way to support them. Beyond that, we treat them like part of the staff.

Overwhelmingly, they flourish.

We recently welcomed a new cohort of summer interns, selected from dozens of applicants at top universities. Many have heard about our program from students who preceded them, and competition for one of our slots is intense.

This summers interns, and the Journal Sentinel departments in which they will be based, are:

Max Correa, Ohio University, photography.

Rachel Hale, University of Wisconsin-Madison, politics/government (Madison).

Tristan Hernandez, Yale University, politics/government (Milwaukee).

Wynton Jackson, Hampton University, sports.

Zoe Jaeger, University of Wisconsin-Madison, investigations.

Jolan Kruse, Marquette University, education/local news.

Katherine Loren, Marquette University, business.

Kathryn Muchnick, University of Notre Dame, local news.

Jane Park, Yale University, features/arts.

Siddhant Pusdekar, University of Minnesota, science/environment.

Chesnie Wardell, Marquette University, breaking/trending news.

Angelika Ytuarte, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, suburbs.

When it started more than 25 years ago, our program hosted just one or two students. Now it is one of the most robust in the country, and other news organizations contact us to see how we do it. Past Journal Sentinel interns have gone on to success throughout the field. Many of the best have returned to Wisconsin, and to our newsroom.

Year after year, we hear their time with us was a profound experience, a turning point not just in their career path but in their life. In the last few weeks I've heard from former interns dating to 1998. The messages they send are humbling.

How does it happen?

More than $70,000 in sponsorships this summer alone fund many of these internships, and we are always working to grow that number. This vital funding comes from foundations, alumni organizations and individuals who believe in supporting the next generation of journalists. They ask nothing in return.

Beyond the financial support, our past interns form something of an alumni network, acting as our eyes and ears on campuses, directing good candidates our way and helping us screen the field. Many feel protective of the special program we have developed.

The result is a win-win-win situation.

You, our readers, get work by some leading young journalists on the cusp of their professional career, covering stories we might not otherwise be able to get to, adding richness and depth to our news report. They may see things we don't see, or bring a perspective we haven't considered, and you benefit from that.

The student interns get targeted lessons and training, personal editing and mentoring, a wonderful city in which to develop their craft  and a steady stream of kringle, the fuel of the newsroom. Many find it hard to leave; their last days are often emotional. They come to rely on us for job and graduate school recommendations, interviews on their behalf, and advice for years to come.

As for us, we get a fresh injection of ideas and enthusiasm, an opportunity to re-examine what we do and why we do it. Often, the interns instigate the best conversations, and the most laughs. They remind us why we fell in love with journalism in the first place.

Please look for, and enjoy, their work.

Thomas Koetting oversees the environment/science/Indigenous/health team, works with faith and immigration coverage, edits narrative projects and coaches writing. He has coordinated the internship program since joining the Journal Sentinel in 1997. He can be reached at tkoetting@jrn.com.

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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Journal Sentinel summer newsroom interns bring fresh ideas, approach
On June 18, the chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board (CMB), Sheikhulislam Allahshukur Pashazade, received Bishop Alexiy, newly appointed by the Russian Pro-Slav Church to Azerbaijan.

According to Azernews, at the meeting, Sheikhul Islam spoke about Azerbaijan's multicultural values ??and respect for all religions and customs: "Azerbaijani multiculturalism, founded by National Leader Heydar Aliyev, is being successfully continued today by Mr. President Ilham Aliyev on a new and wider level."

Expressing his satisfaction with the level of relations between the representatives of both religions, Sheikhul Islam said that he believes that these relations will be effective and sustainable.

Highlighting the religious activities of our country in the post-war period, the chairman of the CMB emphasized that the mosques and churches destroyed during the 30-year enemy occupation are being restored today by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation headed by the First Vice-President of Azerbaijan, Mehriban Aliyeva, and all conditions are being created for the comfortable use of religious people.

"Today, religious temples in Shusha, as well as in other territories freed from occupation, are being repaired and restored. I would like you to see those chapels and witness the good events with us and share our joy."

Then Bishop Alexiy spoke about the tolerance of the Azerbaijani people towards different religions and expressed his satisfaction with these relations.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Baku Mountain Jewish Community, Milikh Yevdayev, confirmed the opinions of Sheikhul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade and Bishop Alexiy, and thanked the state of Azerbaijan for these conditions. He said that the attention and respect shown by the leadership of Azerbaijan and Sheikhulislam personally towards other religions is commendable.
NEW DELHI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A senior minister of the government of India capital Delhi on Wednesday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention in the ongoing water crisis in the national capital.

Delhi Water Minister Atishi wrote a letter to Modi requesting the immediate release of water from the neighboring Haryana state and threatened to sit on an indefinite fast from Friday if the issue is not resolved.

Delhi is facing an unprecedented heatwave due to which water demand in the capital has shot up.

She said that on May 29, the temperature in Delhi was unprecedented 52.9 degrees Celsius.

"In this scorching heat, the need of water for the people of Delhi has increased. But when Delhiites need water in large quantities, there is a water shortage in Delhi. There is a panic for water in the city," she wrote.

"Prime Minister, the people of Delhi are very troubled ... I have tried everything possible, but the Haryana government is not ready to give water to the people of Delhi. I am requesting with folded hands that you provide water to 2.8 million people of Delhi. In case the city does not get water, I will have to start Satyagraha (a form of nonviolent civil resistance) from 21st June and sit on an indefinite hunger strike," she said.

Delhi is under a water crisis and residents in various areas are seen queuing around water tankers to meet their daily water needs.

The Delhi government has also resorted to the Supreme Court to get immediate additional water. 
Construction on major changes to a central Fresno railroad crossing wont begin for about two years, but the city is already turning to the court system to acquire some of the needed property through eminent domain.

Over the past few months, the Fresno City Council has adopted five resolutions officially declaring that particular pieces of land are needed for the $150 million project to rebuild the intersection of Blackstone and McKinley avenues at the BNSF Railway tracks. The streets are each to be lowered by as much as 25 feet to funnel traffic beneath the existing railroad tracks.

The resolutions of necessity are the first step in the legal process of taking property through condemnation.

Among the businesses on the targeted properties are the Carls Jr. fast-food restaurant at the northwest corner of Blackstone and McKinley; Dutch Bros coffee in a shopping center on the northeast corner of the intersection; a ceramics business; an auto body shop; and an auto smog shop.

How eminent domain will affect Fresno railroad project

Eminent domain, or condemnation, is a legal process in which a government agency can go to court to acquire property for a public project when the agency and property owner cannot agree on price or terms.

The first step is adoption of a resolution of necessity, and then the agency can file an eminent domain lawsuit in the county where the property is located. A judge first decides whether the agency is entitled to the property; in a second phase of the case, a trial determines the fair market value and other just compensation due the owner. The verdict can be no lower than the agencys offer and no higher than the owners counteroffer.

The start of the eminent domain process doesnt mean that negotiations on any of the properties are beyond repair. The city is willing to continue negotiations with the property owners, but in order to maintain the projects schedule, this step in determining the necessity of the parcel is critical, said Nancy Bruno, a supervising real estate agent with the citys Capital Projects Department.

That was underscored in April by Chief Assistant City Attorney Raj Singh Badesha as the City Council considered one of the first resolutions of necessity on the railroad project. If the council moves forward with this  it doesnt mean that the negotiations stop, Singh Badesha said. The negotiations are ongoing.

A search of Fresno County Superior Courts database indicates that while the resolutions of necessity have been adopted by the Fresno City Council since April, no eminent domain cases have been filed.

Blackstone/McKinley construction timeline

The grade separation of the rail crossing at Blackstone and McKinley has been a priority traffic project for years, for pedestrian and vehicle safety and traffic flow on two of the citys major thoroughfares. The city reports that four people have died in either train-versus-pedestrian or train-versus-vehicle collisions near the intersection over the past 10 years.

Dozens of trains  both BNSF freight trains and Amtrak passenger trains  pass through the intersection each day, creating an average delay for drivers of nearly three minutes for each train.

Acquiring all of the properties needed for the grade separation is expected to run through the summer of 2025. Engineering designs are expected to be completed by mid- to late 2025, and construction is slated to commence in the spring of 2026 and continue into the spring of 2029.

Its likely that several dozen properties will be at least partially affected by changes in street elevation for the two roads and the retaining walls needed to shore up the embankments, effectively cutting off street access to the sites.

A preliminary rendering looking from the northeast to southwest depicts for how both Blackstone and McKinley avenues in central Fresno will be lowered to run underneath the existing BNSF Railway tracks near Fresno City College. New bridges would carry the train tracks above the two streets. Its similar to lowered streets under the railroad tracks at Shaw and Marks avenues in northwest Fresno.

In the case of Dutch Bros, the popular coffee business, city traffic engineer Alex Gonzalez told the City Council on June 13 that retaining walls along McKinley Avenue and a new driveway into the small shopping center will render inaccessible the exit for the existing drive-through lane.

The owners of at least six properties near the Blackstone/McKinley intersection have agreed to terms to sell their land to the city. Those include a quintet of houses south of McKinley at Glenn Avenue and Calaveras Street, and the owner of a 1.37-acre commercial property that is home to several businesses on the west side of Blackstone Avenue, just north of the Carls Jr. restaurant.

Those six purchase agreements add up to a total of more than $4.7 million.

Property owners reluctant to sell

To date, however, the city has been unable to come to terms on other properties, prompting the eminent domain resolutions that have come to the City Council for approval.

In April, A&T Ceramics owner Art Terzian strenuously objected to the plan to take his 0.88-acre property on McKinley Avenue east of Blackstone. His attorney, Benjamin Tagert of Sacramento, argued that there was insufficient proof that its necessary to displace Terzians business, which has operated there for 30 years.

The city is proposing to uproot him and a dozen other businesses from where theyve been operating for years for a temporary road, said Tagert, referring to a plan to detour traffic during three years of construction. Thats not right.

After an appraisal last year, the city submitted an offer to pay Terzian more than $2.25 million for his property. But Terzian said it would cost him closer to $7.5 million to leave his 28,000 square feet of buildings there, relocate his business and inventory to a new site and get fully up and running.

Cassie Scholz, an engineer for the city, said the issues with Terzians property are more about the change in street elevation than about a detour around the construction.

Not only will the footprint of the project conflict with the front face of Mr. Terzians building, there will also be a vertical drop between where his driveway currently sits and where the road will be dropped to, she said. There will no longer be access available to be maintained to the parcel, the way everything is laid out right now.

The city provided an offer of $2.1 million for the Dutch Bros property to the owner, Westfield Investments & Associates. A staff memo reports that the company submitted a counteroffer, but that proposal was not substantiated by an appraisal.

Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, second from right, announces that the city received an $80 million grant from the California State Transportation Agency to help pay for separating at-grade railroad crossings at Blackstone and McKinley avenues. Also at the July 6, 2023, announcement at Fresno City Hall were, from left, Public Works Director Scott Mozier, City Manager Georgeanne White, and City Council Vice President Annalisa Perea.
The White House canceled a meeting with Israel on Iran after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the US of withholding weapons as the war in Gaza rages on, according to a report.

Netanyahu released a video on Tuesday, claiming he had told Secretary of State Antony Blinken that it was inconceivable that in the past few months, the administration has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel.

President Joe Bidens top advisers were angered by Netanyahus public statement  prompting them to make a public statement of their own by canceling the US-Israel meeting, which had been slated for Thursday, Axios reported.

This decision makes it clear that there are consequences for pulling such stunts, a US official told the outlet. Another said the meeting was merely postponed, not scrapped altogether.

The Independent has reached out to the White House for comment.

The US canceled a meeting with Israel after the countrys leader slammed the Biden administration, accusing it of withholding weapons. Pictured: Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with Israel Minister Benjamin Netanyahu earlier this month (EPA)

Meanwhile, a senior Israeli official told Axios: The Americans are fuming. Bibis video made a lot of damage.

The White Houses decision to call off the meeting sends a strong message to Israel, which since October 7, has steadily received of US military aid worth billions of dollars.

After the videos release, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre rejected Netanyahus accusation: We genuinely do not know what he is talking about.

She called the Israeli leaders claim categorically false, clarifying that only one shipment of 2,000-pound bombs has been withheld amid Israels ground offensive in Rafah to convey the Biden administrations push for the country to take further steps to mitigate civilian casualties.

At a press conference, Blinken addressed the pause in the one shipment: We continue to review one shipment that President Biden talked about regarding 2,000-pound bombs because of our concern about their use in densely populated areas like Rafah. That remains under review.

But everything else is moving as it normally would move to make sure Israel has what it needs to defend itself against a multiplicity of threats, Blinken said.
Ben and Polly Gorringe examine what remains of the ceiling in their shop, located on the ground floor of an Alexandria building that caught fire on May 30.

Jodi Foster did everything in her power to make her second-floor, two-bedroom apartment on West Main Street in Alexandria feel like home when she moved in with her son in January.

She bought baskets at garage sales and filled them with plastic plants and string lights. A lamp  a birthday gift from her cousin  illuminated a corner of the living room. In the kitchen, her mothers photo hung above the cabinets, and a tray that read blessings hung above the stove.

And what a blessing it once was, said Foster, 54, just days after the apartment building caught fire and left several families homeless in Licking County.

Foster, who spent most of her life in Licking County, moved into the unit at 14 W. Main Street at the end of January after an eviction and seven weeks in a motel, thanks to the help of organizations like Licking County Coalition for Housing and her church, the Christian Life Center in Heath.

"This was my second chance," she said June 5. It was so important that we didnt lose this place. Now, I have to start all over again, and I dont know what walls Im going to hit.

Foster is among the 11 residents and two businesses displaced by the two-alarm fire that overtook her apartment building just before 1 p.m. May 30.

Though Foster wasnt home at the time of the fire  she was mid-shift at Ross Granville Market, where she has worked for nearly two years  her son and his dog, Willow, were there.

"He said smoke was billowing out of the lights in the hallway and pouring through the ceiling in our kitchen," she said. "He got her harness on her but ran out without even his shoes.  He ended up with blisters on his feet."

Foster said the day "felt like an eternity," between leaving work, finding her son in the chaos, meeting with the local chapter of the Red Cross and figuring out where the three of them would sleep that night.

On June 3, inspectors deemed the building structurally sound, but residents had not been allowed inside to retrieve their belongings  clothes, family heirlooms, bags of dog food, social security cards or furniture  as of June 5.

The building remains vacant, with plywood over a front door and several windows, and St. Albans Fire Chief Michael Theisen said it would be a long time before the building would be habitable again.

"Its going to be a total gut job," he said. "The entire second floor will need a complete remodel  we had to cut a couple holes in the roof."

At this point, the cause of the fire remains under investigation, though Alexandria Police Chief Dan Bunting said the local police department  formed earlier this year after the department became defunct in 2012  doesnt have the resources to investigate. The organization opted to bring in fire investigators from the Columbus Fire Departments arson investigation unit and the Licking County Sheriffs Office.

Building owner Steve Baldwin said he couldnt comment on the status of the building or the fire until ongoing investigations are finished.

Locally owned businesses also affected by fire

Though the second-floor apartments sustained the most damage in the fire, the ground-floor homes and businesses will remain closed while the building undergoes inspection and repairs.

Marthas Bath and Body, a brick-and-mortar shop owned by longtime Alexandria residents Ben and Polly Gorringe, opened on the ground floor of the building just six months ago.

Every detail of their shop was picked by the couple, including the sign painted by a local artist, the dark walls and built-in shelves lined with handmade soap created with milk from their goats.

Today, soot covers every surface in the shop, and the smell of smoke lingers in the air.

Tiles on the floor of Marthas Bath and Body reveal where furniture sat on the day of the fire.

The storefront "was a dream," Ben Gorringe said June 3. "It was the culmination of a lot of work."

He said the community responded to the fire immediately: Strangers and family members arrived to help them pull stuff out of the storefront.

"Its kind of nice to see the community come together, but its also sad," he said. "Months of work need to be redone."

The Gorringes plan to rebuild and reopen their shop as soon as they are able, but they dont know when that might be.

Maynards Upscale Thrift Stores, the other business on the ground floor of the building, announced on Facebook it would be closed permanently.

What happened?

Don and Lesa Hooper own Ragamuffins coffee shop across Main Street from the fire. They and their employees could see smoke roiling from windows of the upstairs apartments, and then they saw one of the residents on a porch roof over the entrances to the first-floor shops.

"As soon as he got outside on the roof, I saw thick, brown smoke pouring out of the window behind him," Don Hooper said June 3, as he was pouring coffee for customers.

Lesa Hooper said several of the tenants of the apartments affected by the fire are customers of the coffee shop, and a few came there after they evacuated the burning building  including the man who had been on the roof  for water and a place to rest while contemplating their immediate future.

Next door to the building that burned, Wendi Zigo, co-owner with Jenny Sue Bilderback of The Village Spa in Alexandria, said that Bilderback smelled smoke and went to the alley behind the spa and ran into a man who found the fire and urged them to get out.

Flames were shooting from second-story windows in the back of the building.

"Customers went that way," Zigo said, pointing to the front door, "and we all went out the back."

Zigo was quick to compliment the dozens of firefighters from several departments who kept the most recent fire from spreading to adjacent buildings. If not for their quick work, she said, the entire block could have gone up in flames.

It wouldnt be the first time that happened.

Amy Pausch, whose roots run deep in the Alexandria area, was at the fire scene on June 2 with a book containing the history of Alexandria.

"In 1905, the whole block burned down," she said. "In 1980, it burned again, but not as bad."

Amy Pausch discusses the histories of Alexandrias fire while standing behind 14 W. Main, which was hit by fire on May 30.

The buildings destroyed by fire more than a century ago were all wooden structures, according to the history book.

"The buildings were mostly old and were all frames, and were not what the business of this place demanded," wrote the books author. "They are gone, and what we need now is to cover these lots with several good brick business blocks."

But even brick buildings are not fireproof.

What happens now?

Rod Cook, executive director of the Red Cross of East Central Ohio in Newark, said Red Cross case workers are helping four of the households from the building.

"Besides providing the standard financial assistance, were also working with a couple of cases that have special medical needs," Cook said.

The amount of financial assistance is based on household size, and the money can be used for immediate needs such as food and clothing, he said.

But that support, Foster said, quickly ran out. Funds helped cover a couple days in a motel and clean clothes, and donations from Alexandria community members helped pay for five extra nights in the motel.

Come Friday, Foster doesnt know where she and her son will stay, if she cant come up with the $85 per night her motel room costs.

And with limited housing available in Alexandria  and across Licking County  some residents dont know where theyll go long-term.

"If anyone has any open apartments in the Alexandria area, please let us know," Cook said, adding that each time such a disaster happens, it reduces the number of lower-cost apartments available in a very tight housing market in Licking County. And they arent being replaced, he said.

"This is just an ongoing dilemma," he said.

Foster said shell likely have to move farther from her workplace.

"To find something affordable, Im going to have to pretty much move to Egypt," she said. "To find something close to work, Im going to have to sell my soul. So many of us who work in Granville cant actually afford to live in Granville."

Foster said other Alexandria residents  particularly Brian Hammond, who has been leading the organization of donations and support for displaced families  have been incredibly helpful with funds, clothes and food.

"I feel so blessed to be part of the community that Im in," she said. "I am really going to miss living in Alexandria. The apartment was perfect. It was home."

Donation bins have been set up at the Alexandria Church of Christ, the Alexandria Post Office, Ragamuffins Coffee just across the street from the burned building, the Alexandria Methodist Church, the Alexandria Baptist Church and the Alexandria Public Library.

Furniture donations can be made at the churches by appointment, Hammond said.

During Sunday services at the Church of Christ, the Methodist church and the Baptist church, parishioners will be collecting donations in cash and or by check (with fire fund in the memo line) for the displaced families. On June 2, the churches collected more than $1,700, divided evenly between the displaced residents.

The Hoopers, at Raggamuffins Coffee, are taking up a collection for gift cards for the displaced residents, and the Red Cross has asked anyone with an apartment for rent and those willing to make donations to help those who lost virtually everything in the fire to contact them at 740-349-9442.

"Weve been through a lot, but weve survived every time," Foster said. "We have a 100% success rate of surviving."

These journalists from The Reporting Project contributed to this story: Katie Corner, Julia Lerner, Alan Miller, Ellie Owen, Sarah Sollinger, Andrew Theophilus and Caroline Zollinger.

TheReportingProject.org is the nonprofit news organization of the Denison University Journalism Program, which is supported by generous donations from readers.

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Future unknown for Alexandria residents, businesses displaced by fire
Gas prices around West Virginia on the decline

Gas prices around West Virginia on the decline

GHENT, WV (WVNS)  West Virginia is experiencing a decrease in gas prices.

Recently, gas prices across the Mountain State declined 5.1 cents per gallon.

The average price is $3.32 per gallon.

Beckleyans brave the heat and humidity to work, play

Lori Weaver Hawkins, Public Affairs Manager for Triple A Blue Grass, said this decrease is local and around the state.

Beckleys down 3 cents, down 10 cents from a month ago. So, thats kind of the story that were seeing, especially in southern West Virginia, central West Virginia, and up the western boarder there, said Weaver Hawkins to 59News.

Weaver Hawkins said it is too early to predict how prices will look for the rest of the summer.

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.
Buffalo Field Campaign announced on Monday it will host a June 26, 2024, gathering to honor the white buffalo born in Yellowstone National Park on June 4th. The birth was the first documented white buffalo born in the national park.

Yellowstone Park is home to the only continuously wild buffalo population in the United States. Among tribal nations, the birth of a white buffalo is held in the highest regard and considered sacred.

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 honoring ceremony will be held at Buffalo Field Campaign headquarters in West Yellowstone, Montana. Presiding over the ceremony will be Chief Arvol Looking Horse, 19th Generation Keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe and Bundle.

"The birth of the white buffalo calf in Yellowstone has captivated the world. For it to take place within the only continuously wild herds of buffalo is tremendous," said James Holt, executive director for Buffalo Field Campaign. "I'm honored the Campaign will, once again, host Chief Arvol Looking Horse. I hope this sacred occurrence will aide the plight of wild buffalo, for their existence is needed by all beings, especially here in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem."

When: Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 11 am



Where: Buffalo Field Campaign headquarters, 14365 Hebgen Lake Road, West Yellowstone, Montana 59758



Who: Chief Arvol Looking Horse, 19th Generation Keeper of the Sacred White Buffalo Calf Pipe and Bundle will lead a gathering to honor the birth of a white buffalo calf in Yellowstone.



Buffalo Field Campaign is encouraging everyone attending to be self-sufficient. Please bring chairs, blankets, bottles for water, food, snacks, and any additional provisions you may require. Camping is limited onsite. Please RSVP for camping space by contacting mease@wildrockies.org.



Additional information about the gathering will be posted online:

www.buffalofieldcampaign.org

www.worldpeaceandprayer.com

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
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said Tuesday he would support efforts to remove smartphones from schools, a day after the U.S. surgeon general called for a warning label to be applied to social media platforms.

As the Surgeon General affirmed, social media is harming the mental health of our youth, Newsom said in a statement Tuesday. Building on legislation I signed in 2019, I look forward to working with the Legislature to restrict the use of smartphones during the school day.

When children and teens are in school, they should be focused on their studies, he added, not their screens.

A recent Gallup survey found adolescents spend an average of 4.8 hours a day on social media. And a 2019 study found those who spend more than three hours a day can face increased risk of mental health problems.

Its time to limit the use of smartphones during the school day.



When our kids are in school, they should be focused on learning -- not their screens. https://t.co/XFfejgl50Xpic.twitter.com/BblzkiNN7g  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) June 18, 2024

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called on Congress to add the warning labels to social media platforms on Monday, saying widespread use of the technologies had led to significant mental health harms for adolescents. In an opinion piece for The New York Times, Murthy said the mental health crisis among young people was an emergency, and said schools and parents should work in tandem to limit any harms linked to heavy social media use.

One of the worst things for a parent is to know your children are in danger yet be unable to do anything about it, the surgeon general wrote. That is how parents tell me they feel when it comes to social media  helpless and alone in the face of toxic content and hidden harms.

When children and teens are in school, they should be focused on their studies, Newsom said Tuesday, not their screens. Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images

Similar warning labels, which require congressional approval, have been mandated on cigarettes and alcohol products, and are often seen as one of the most powerful tools that can be leveraged by the surgeon general.

Murthy went on to tout a host of recommendations: that schools should become phone-free zones, kids should not be allowed access to social media until after middle school, and parents should prioritize and safeguard sleep and real-life connections.

This is much easier said than done, which is why parents should work together with other families to establish shared rules, so no parents have to struggle alone or feel guilty when their teens say they are the only one who has to endure limits, he wrote.

Newsoms stance came the same day the Los Angeles school board voted to ban cellphones in classrooms, with board members warning of the hazards that devices present to students.

Our students are glued to their cellphones, not unlike adults, Nick Melvoin, the board member who shepherded the resolution through the vote, said this week, per the Los Angeles Times. Theyre surreptitiously scrolling in school, in class time, or have their head in their hands, walking down the hallways. Theyre not talking to each other or playing at lunch or recess because they have their AirPods in.

Related...
During this month's traditional Flag March on Jerusalem Day, which commemorates Israels capture of the city's historic eastern sector during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war, marchers could be heard shouting racist, anti-Arab and anti-Muslim slogans, according to reporting from Haaretz, the BBC, AFP and other sources.

One marcher reportedly shouted: "This is my country. I am the owner here. I'm the boss here, there is no Palestine. Reporters also recorded such chants and slogans as "We will burn your villages" and "All Arabs can suck it."

Israel's national security minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has a lengthy track record of right-wing and anti-Arab provocation, said at the march: "We send a message to Hamas: Jerusalem is ours. Damascus Gate is ours. The Temple Mount is ours." That can be understood as a direct provocation, since what Jewish Israelis call the Temple Mount also includes Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of the holiest sites in Islam. "With the help of God," Ben-Gvir told the cheering crowd, "the full victory is ours.

Ben-Gvir is a member of Benjamin Netanyahu's hard-right cabinet as leader of Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) an ultra-nationalist, anti-Arab political party that won six seats in Israel's 2022 Knesset election. His party is now crucial to Netanyahu's flimsy governing coalition, especially now that the "war cabinet" created after last October's Hamas attack has been dissolved.

Ben-Gvir was formerly a supporter of the banned political party Kach, a right-wing Zionist group originally founded by Brooklyn-born Rabbi Meir Kahane, which Israel ultimately designated a terrorist organization. He reportedly once had a portrait on his living-room wall of Baruch Goldstein, the Jewish extremist who killed 29 Palestinians and wounded 125 more in a 1994 mass shooting at the Cave of the Patriarchs in the occupied West Bank.

Otzma Yehudit represents one extreme within Zionism, depicting it as an essential component of Orthodox Judaism, which regards the Torah as a divine text revealed by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. Many Zionists, but not all, believe that Eretz Israel  generally taken to mean the entire territory of Palestine, from the Mediterranean Sea to the Jordan River  was promised by God to the Jewish people.

But Theodore Herzl, the 19th-century founder of modern Zionism, was an entirely secular figure and quite likely an atheist. In the words of his Encyclopedia Britannica entry, Herzl viewed the "Jewish question" in Europe not as "a social or religious question but a national question. Herzl argued specifically that "matters of faith" should be entirely "excluded from public influence.

Until recently, religion did not play a prominent role in Israeli politics, and the Jewish state's leaders were generally secular politicians. On the other side of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, however, it's fair to say that Islam has been the driving force of Hamas since its establishment in 1988.

The Palestine Liberation Organization and the allied political party Fatah, which preceded Hamas by about 20 years and are internationally recognized as legitimate representatives of the Palestinian people, have a largely secular and nationalist viewpoint and have included at least a few Palestinian Christians. Longtime PLO leader Yasser Arafat inclined toward socialist views, and as a young man moved away from an alliance with the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt.

Palestinian leaders to the left of Arafat, like George Habash, Nayef Hawatmeh and Yasser Abd Rabbo, were often Marxist revolutionaries who drew support from liberation movements in the developing world and sometimes from the Soviet Union or its allies. While such Palestinian militant groups engaged in spectacular acts of violence at times  including the infamous attack on Israeli athletes during the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich  they did not frame their conflict with Israel in religious terms.

One major irony in the backstory of Hamas is that for many years before the group was established, its future leader, Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, was tolerated and even encouraged by the Israeli government, as a counterweight to the Palestinian nationalists and leftists who were seen as more dangerous.

Yassins Islamist charity group was allowed to build mosques, schools, hospitals and other community facilities. According to a 2009 report in The Wall Street Journal, the Israeli governor of Gaza during the late 1970s said he had maintained regular contact with Yassin, and had arranged for him to receive medical treatment in Israel. Yassins ally Mahmoud al-Zahar reportedly met with top Israeli officials to plot against Arafat and other socialist or Marxist Palestinian leaders.

What Israeli authorities perhaps understood too late was that Yassin, al-Zahar and their colleagues always viewed Israel as their ultimate religious and historical enemy. The mosques, hospitals and schools were part of a package deal that included the establishment of Hamas and then its military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, along with strict gender segregation, mandatory hijab for women and other conservative principles understood to come from the Quran.

Indeed, one could say the Quran, Islam's holy book, has become Hamas most important weapon against Israel. About one-third of the Quranic text directly or indirectly concerns the Jews  and most of that is negative, with repeated references to the Jewish people as killers of prophets. The first sentence in Hamas' 1988 charter quotes a famous verse suggesting that Allah has placed an eternal curse on the Jews "on account of their unbelief. (In 2017, during a period of negotiations with Israel and the U.S., Hamas published a watered-down version of its charter that removed that reference, but never officially revoked the original.)

Hamas carried out its first attack against Israel in 1989, killing two Israeli soldiers. That began about 15 years of low-level conflict, during which Israeli officials killed several Hamas leaders, including Yassin, al-Zahar and Abdel Aziz Rantisi, and injured, arrested or deported hundreds of other militants.

Hamas' religious war against Israel has accompanied a contradictory relationship with the U.S. On one hand, the group has held secret or indirect meetings with American officials for years. On the other, Hamas constantly criticizes the U.S. for supporting and supplying Israel, for invading and occupying Afghanistan and Iraq, and for attacking other Muslim countries, including Yemen and Somalia. Rantisi, who succeeded Yassin as Hamas leader, once declared that George W. Bush was an enemy of Muslims and that America had "declared war against Allah.

Hamas' strong identification of Islam with its campaign against Israeli occupation has attracted more overt support from distant Muslim countries than from nearby Arab governments, many of which have official or unofficial ties to Israel. Led by the theocratic regime in Iran, predominantly Muslim nations such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Indonesia largely seem to consider the Zionist project and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in religious terms.

These issues were detailed in a recent academic paper published by the Beirut-based Al-Zaytouna Centre, Non-Arab Muslims and Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" (a reference to Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel). The paper stresses the importance of Ummat Al-Islam, or the worldwide "Islamic nation," seen by many Muslims as the only true form of nationalism. When the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in 1979, "Arab and Muslim countries responded from an Islamic perspective," the paper continues. "They launched extensive media campaigns, called for volunteers to fight against the Soviet forces, and established popular and official donation funds.

That reaction throughout the non-Arab Muslim world was far more effective  with thousands of volunteers fighting alongside Afghan militants  than anything that has happened during the current Gaza war. But non-Arab Muslims remain strongly concerned with the fate of the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, which remains under Israeli control.

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Back in Israel, the most religious and most conservative elements of Zionism now appear to dominate the movement for the first time, as well as the Israeli government. Netanyahu may have great difficulty ending the war in Gaza without alienating the Orthodox far right and destroying his governing coalition.

In March, Dutch journalist Caroline de Gruyter published an essay in Foreign Policy entitled Israel and Palestine Are Now in a Religious War, relating the current Gaza conflict to the immensely destructive European religious wars of the 16th and 17th centuries, which gave birth to modern nation-states on that continent. Both in Israel and Palestine, the main internal division is between those who are secular and those who are religiously motivated," she writes. "On both sides, the religious camp seems to be getting the upper hand. The two camps that deeply believe God has given them the land are incapable" of resolving the conflict, "because it requires them to renege on the fundament on which their faith and identity are based.

Anshel Pfeffer, a columnist for Israel's left-leaning newspaper Haaretz, wrote something similar last November, arguing that None of the international coverage and commentary on Hamass massacre in Gaza border communities, and the war it triggered, has addressed its religious aspects.

Hamas and Zionism, Pfeffer wrote, are both rooted in religion, and the contradictory national narratives that drive them are fundamentally religious.
FILE PHOTO: A view of the GE Aerospace booth at Changi Exhibition Centre in Singapore

By Rajesh Kumar Singh

EVENDALE, Ohio (Reuters) - A GE Aerospace executive said on Wednesday global supply chains will likely remain challenged even next year, despite a production slowdown at Boeing.

Russel Stokes, head of GE Aerospace's commercial engines and services, said while the company is aligned with Boeing's production rates for this year, it is working with suppliers to support a ramp up in production in coming years.

"I'm confident that over time things are going to get better," he said. "But...it's still a challenged environment for this year and probably next year."

GE Aerospace co-produces the engine for Boeing and Airbus narrow-body jets with France's Safran through their CFM joint venture, which is the sole supplier to Boeing's 737 MAX family of jets.

Boeing's jet production has slowed sharply as regulatory scrutiny has mounted since January when a door plug blew off an Alaska Airlines jetliner in mid-air. GE Aerospace has slashed estimates for LEAP jet engine production this year.

The slowdown could help a stretched supply chain catch up with demand, but there is also a risk of it further worsening the situation.

GE Aerospace CEO Larry Culp has attributed ongoing supply-chain challenges to the pandemic, which led to a plunge in air travel demand, forcing the aviation industry to lay off thousands of workers.

Supply chain problems have left the global industry hamstrung. They have not only made it tougher to increase jet production, but have also increased the turnaround time at jet engine repair shops.

Some airline CEOs have called engine repair delays a major constraint for the industry.

GE Aerospace, which became an independent company this year, has a dominant share in the engine market for narrowbody jets and enjoys a strong position in widebodies. More than 70% of its commercial engine revenue comes from parts and services.

Stokes said the company's equipment as well as services businesses are grappling with material availability issues.

GE Aerospace has deployed 500 of its engineers at suppliers and sub-suppliers sites and is using artificial intelligence to get around the bottlenecks, company executive said.

It now plans to deploy a technology, which is used to identify forged artwork, to detect chemical anomalies in metal parts. It is part of the company's drive to reduce overall turnaround time at its repair shops by 30% from a year ago.

Stokes said airlines want more engines to support their fleet. "We're doing everything that we can in support of that," he said.

(Reporting by Rajesh Kumar Singh; Editing by David Gregorio)
General Staff: Russia has lost 529,750 troops in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022

Russia has lost 529,750 troops in Ukraine since the beginning of its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported on June 19.

This number includes 1,130 casualties Russian forces suffered over the past day.

According to the report, Russia has also lost 7,984 tanks, 15,319 armored fighting vehicles, 19,078 vehicles and fuel tanks, 14,007 artillery systems, 1,104 multiple launch rocket systems, 857 air defense systems, 359 airplanes, 326 helicopters, 11,221 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine.

Read also: Russian troops beheaded Ukrainian soldier in Donetsk Oblast, Kyiv claims

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Chinese authorities have earmarked 346 million yuan (about 48.63 million U.S. dollars) in disaster relief funds to assist flood control and drought relief efforts for a broad swath of the country. #XinhuaNews




NEW YORK  Democratic congressional candidate George Latimer accused his opponent, incumbent Rep. Jamaal Bowman, of lying in a TV ad that suggests the New York Daily News gave him the newspapers endorsement, which it did not.

The Bowman ad in question attributes the statement America needs brave leaders like Jamaal Bowman to the Daily News  and while that statement appeared in an opinion piece in the paper, it was not issued by the papers editorial board.

Bowman clearly feels that he can only win by twisting the facts and falsely attributing a statement to a major newspaper in a sad attempt to manipulate the electorate, Latimers campaign said in a written statement Tuesday. Using this tactic is not only unethical, but its also a clear attempt to deceive the public and exaggerate his support.

The ad includes text that reads: Paid for and approved by Jamaal Bowman for Congress.

In a statement, the paper noted that it endorsed Latimer, not Bowman in the upcoming Democratic primary for the 16th Congressional District.

Political ads that misrepresent newspaper endorsements are a disservice to democracy, the Daily News statement said.

Bowman and Latimer, who serves as Westchester County executive, have been locked in a bitter primary battle for months with much of the debate centered on the war in Gaza and the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks which prompted it. Bowman has argued much of Latimers support amounts to undue influence from pro-Israel lobbyists and Republicans, while Latimer has maintained Bowman is out of touch with the congressional district he represents.

The two have also sparred over statements from Bowman that the Latimer camp and his surrogates have framed as fact-challenged, such as Bowmans claim that he co-wrote President Joe Bidens signature CHIPS and Science Act and claims he wouldnt accept money from campaign donors tied to the real estate industry, corporate PACs or lobbyists.

The accusation that Bowman spread lies, however, is a considerable escalation and comes amid early voting and a week before the June 25 primary.

The statement Bowmans campaign used in the TV ad came from a June 9 opinion piece penned by Naomi Klein, an associate professor of climate justice at the University of British Columbia. The title of the piece, which praises Bowman for his support of the Green New Deal, is America needs brave leaders like Jamaal Bowman.

The TV ad isnt the first time Bowmans campaign or his supporters have tried to portray the Daily News as giving him its backing in the race.

In an April 24 fundraising email, the lefty political group Our Revolution cited the Daily News as suggesting attacks against Bowman are racist. That view wasnt put forth by the Daily News itself, but in a guest opinion column in the paper that was authored by Audrey Sasson, executive director of Jews For Racial & Economic Justice, and Sochie Nnaemeka, former director of the New York Working Families Party.

Bowmans campaign did not immediately respond to questions about the ad and the email.
GAINESVILLE, Ga. (AP)  An elected prosecutor in northeast Georgia has been indicted on felony charges that she stole nearly $4,200 in public money, claiming some of the spending was for crime victims.

Hall County Solicitor General Stephanie Woodard was indicted Tuesday on 13 counts of false statements and writings for submitting false expense reports and other records, and 11 counts of theft by taking for cashing checks or buying items with a county-issued credit card.

If convicted, Woodard would be removed from office.

Woodard was released without being required to post bail following a hearing on Tuesday. Marissa Goldberg, Woodards lawyer, told Senior Judge David Emerson that the charges are based on accounting errors and are unmerited, The Times of Gainesville reported.

In a statement, Goldberg called Attorney General Chris Carrs prosecution of Woodard misguided and utterly and provably wrong.

The decision by the attorney generals office to institute charges against her in this absurd indictment is unfathomable and a waste of court time and taxpayer dollars, Goldberg said in her statement. She absolutely committed no crime, but yet she has been viciously pursued by the (Georgia Bureau of Investigation) for years.

Woodards conduct was first detailed by media outlet WAGA-TV in 2022. At that time, the Prosecuting Attorneys Council appointed Carr to investigate whether Woodard had stolen money. Woodard claimed in 2022 that some of the money was spent to help crime victims. She said then that some personal items were submitted by mistake and repaid Hall County more than $2,000. That included some of the purchases listed as crimes in the indictment.

Among the wrongful purchases alleged by the indictment between 2018 and 2022 was $215 paid for someone to take the admission test to law school. The indictment alleges Woodard lied when she said in 2022 that it was for a crime victim being helped by Project Yet, a group that helps young adults.

Its also alleged that Woodard improperly spent $54.06 using her county credit card at Target in 2022, claiming it was for a pillow and pillowcase for a crime victim, and that she was improperly reimbursed for $68.92 she spent at a restaurant. The indictment also alleges that Woodard was paid twice for more than $500 worth of expenses in 2018, getting reimbursed by both Hall County and the Prosecuting Attorneys Council.

The attorney generals office also alleges that Carr lied about a $190 reimbursement that she claimed was for a dog cremation in 2021 and that she lied when she signed paperwork claiming she attended a slate of continuing legal education classes in 2018.

Those elected to uphold the law must operate honestly, ethically and transparently, and anything less undermines our system, Carr said in a statement.

Gov. Brian Kemp could suspend Woodard from her office without pay until the case is resolved. To do so, he would have to convene a three-person suspension panel 14 days after getting an official copy of the indictment. The panel would then have 30 days to recommend action to Kemp. Carr would typically chair the panel, but Kemp must appoint someone else as chair because Carr is prosecuting the case.

A former employee of Woodards office, Michelle Daniel, has provided notice that she may sue Hall County, alleging Woodard fired her in November in retaliation for cooperating with investigators. Daniels lawyer offered to settle the claim for $750,000.

The judge on Tuesday barred Woodard from talking about the case with any employees who may be witnesses.

Woodard also paid $4,000 in civil fines in 2023 to the state Ethics Commission for failing to file campaign reports on time.

A county solicitor general prosecutes traffic, misdemeanor, and ordinance violation cases in certain Georgia counties, while a district attorney prosecutes more serious crimes. Gov. Sonny Perdue appointed Woodard to the post in 2008. She has since been reelected four times.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Georgia is the first state to mandate training in election law in order for police to become state certified, a reflection of lessons learned in the aftermath of the states 2020 race.

The new requirement for police trainees to take a one-hour course on election laws is meant to keep officers from trying to guess at how to enforce the law on election day, said Chris Harvey, deputy executive director for the Georgia peace officer standards and training council.

Cops just really need to know what are some of the basic ground rules around elections and voting, because theyre very specific, he said. In my opinion, the worst thing that can happen is if you have a partisan person or partisan force trying to manipulate the police, and have the police not have any idea what theyre supposed to be doing.

Related: Inflation, election lies and racial tension weigh on voters in Georgia swing county: We all got to eat

Harveys long career as a police officer took a side road in 2015 when then-secretary of state, Brian Kemp, named him Georgias director of elections. He carried the experience from 2020 into his recent appointment to the state body certifying police officers.

Having seen the threats to election officials, having seen things happen to polling places, having myself been threatened during the 2020 election, I know that  it was likely that election officials were going to be calling the police, Harvey said.

In the worst case, police may have to respond to threats of violence or actual violence at a polling place. More likely, they will be responding to a cranky individual who refuses to take direction from a poll officer who has asked someone to turn a campaign shirt inside out or refuses to get off their phone in the polling place.

Training material for the course includes references to Georgias controversial law making it a misdemeanor to provide food or drink to someone waiting in line to vote. It also notes that it is illegal to carry a gun within 150ft of a polling place, which may be more likely to trip someone up in a state with permitless carry.

You cant carry a firearm unless you are a police officer or certified security guard, Harvey said. But if a second amendment activist is like, Im not gonna give up my gun, then things can happen quickly. But again, 99% of the problems are handled by poll officials in a very non-confrontational, de-escalatory manner.

Harvey said battleground states like Arizona, Michigan, Pennsylvania and others should consider adopting a training mandate as well.

The training mandate in Georgia will not take effect until January, but the training material will be available within weeks, Harvey said. Harvey worked to formulate the training and to produce a pocket guide for police officers responding to problems at the polls with the Committee for Safe and Secure Elections, a non-partisan group of current and former election officials and law enforcement officers formed in the wake of the 2020 election to coordinate personal security for election officials.

The training emphasizes de-escalation and ways police officers should not allow themselves to appear threatening with their presence.

Historically, some communities would place police in high-visibility positions near polling places as an intimidation tactic, a point noted by Common Cause earlier this week to guidance issued by Diego Morales, the Indiana secretary of state, calling for a greater law enforcement presence at polling places to assist elections workers.

Training material also notes that police have a positive duty to prevent election interference and intimidation; that is, a police officer can commit a crime by failing to stop intimidation and harassment during elections.

That obligation stems from both state and federal law. During the 2020 election, police in San Marcos, Texas, ran afoul of the Ku Klux Klan Act of 1871 when they failed to intervene as Trump partisans swerved at and harassed a Biden-Harris bus on the open road. Other Texas communities had provided a police escort. San Marcos ultimately settled a suit over the affair for $175,000 in 2023.

We dont expect police to be experts in election law, but we expect them to know that theres a place they can go to get these answers, Harvey said. Hopefully, itll click in. And hopefully, agencies will start to train officers with some of this material in the weeks and months leading up to the election.
Georgia Dept. of Agriculture issues warning not to sell, use certain pesticide over extra ingredient

The Georgia Department of Agriculture is warning farmers not to buy, sell or use a certain pesticide due to a contamination issue they say may damage crops.

According to GDA, the Agricultural Inputs Division has issued a stop sale order on Midash Forte Insecticide after lab tests showed Batch TX433 was contaminated with herbicides.

Midash Forte is a commonly used insecticide, according to GDA, so theyre urging farmers to check their pesticide supplies and stop using Midash Forte Insecticide Batch TX433.

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The GDA said the insecticide with EPA Reg. No.83529-6 was the affected batch.

Tests of this type are performed routinely by the GDAs Laboratory Division to make sure products are of the right quality and that labels are accurate.

Several lab tests of Midash Forte Insecticide Batch TX433 showed varying amounts of Triclopyr, and in some samples 2,4-D, when the label indicates only one active ingredient  Imidacloprid, GDA said in the announcement.

Customers who bought Midash Forte Insecticide (EPA Reg. No.83529-6) Batch TX433 can contact the manufacturer, Sharda USA, LLC., for more information.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
Delma Harris waves to voters outside the North Fayette Baptist Church polling station in Fayetteville during the June 18 runoff primary. Harris wore a campaign shirt supporting retired U.S. Army Major Kenya Wicks, who defeated Rep. Valencia Stovall in the Democratic primary runoff for Senate District 34. Ross Williams/ Georgia Recorder

A coastal Georgia GOP state lawmaker defeated a challenger in Tuesdays Republican primary runoff, positioning him as the heavily favored candidate in November.

St. Marys Republican Rep. Steven Sainz defeated Glenn Cook with 2,294 votes, or 52.5%, to 2,096 votes, or 47.5%, according to unofficial results.

In another contest highlighted by intra-party negative attacks, Democratic candidate Kenya Wicks defeated former Rep. Valencia Stovall in the primary to replace retiring state Sen. Valencia Seay, who has represented the south metro Atlanta district since 2003.

Tuesdays election determined the winner in eight state legislative primaries that went to a two-person runoff after no candidate earned 50% of the overall vote on May 21.

In the May 21 GOP primary, Sainz fell just 39 votes short of avoiding a runoff in the three-candidate field, which saw Cook earn second place with about 27% of the vote. Sainz will face Democratic Party candidate Defonsio Daniels on Nov. 5 to decide who will spend the next two years representing the GOP-leaning district at the state Capitol.

Sainz said Tuesday night he is thankful for the support he received from the amazing people of Georgia House District 180. Sainz was first elected to the state House in 2019.

Georgia Rep. Steven Sainz, a St. Marys Republican, emerged the winner of a tough runoff primary on June 18 as he seeks re-election for the coastal district. File/House Media Services photo

I worked hard to make sure there was a solid voice in the state legislature that was Camden County focused, Sainz said in a text message. I could not think of a better pairing than the people of South Glynn County and Exit 29. They want the same thing a legislator focused on public safety, and economic security. We plan to deliver the same record of results over the next two years.

As of late night Tuesday, Wicks was leading Stovall by 4,904 votes to 2,550, or 66% to 34%, according to unofficial election results. Wicks victory in Tuesdays primary moves her one step closer to serving in the same position as her mentor, Seay, for whom Wicks previously served as chief of staff.

Wicks victory Tuesday was a reversal of the outcome of the May 21 primary when her 2,037 votes, or 15%, was well short of Stovalls 46% of votes in a crowded field of seven candidates.

Wicks campaign was boosted by endorsements from Seay, several state Democratic senators as well voting rights organization Fair Fight Action and several other groups. Stovall expressed frustration at having to deal with negative campaigning from within her own party, including being labeled as a Republican in mailers funded by a Senate Democratic Political Action Committee led by Senate Minority Leader Gloria Butler.

Wicks, who served 30 years in the military, will next face Republican university administrator Andrew Honeycutt in November for the Senate district that primarily spans Clayton County and a section of Fayette County. More than 75% of voters in the district voted for Democratic presidential winner Joe Biden in the 2020 general election.

Wicks said Tuesday evening that she was still in shock about the runoff outcome but said shell continue fighting as an advocate for the residents of her district.

She credited the primary runoff success to meeting the citizens where they are, hearing their concerns and also the endorsements of 19 state senators and various groups.

They know my integrity, know that Im an honest and transparent person, Wicks said. Im very thankful for everyone that believed in me.

Several other races will also be decided in the Georgia House and Senate on Tuesday, with the winners of these matchups going into the Nov. 5 general election as the heavy favorites.

A Democratic Senate District 55 primary for DeKalb and Gwinnett counties had DeKalb County attorney Randal Mangham taking an edge over Gwinnett County registered nurse Iris Knight-Hamilton. The winner will face Republican Mary Williams Benefield in November to determine who replaces Butler, a Stone Mountain Democrat, who is stepping down after 26 years in the Legislature.

In a Democratic runoff to replace outgoing Sen. Horacena Tate, nonprofit executive RaShaun Kemps clinched 2,409 votes, or about 60%, was well ahead of the 1,626 tallied for real estate broker Ralph Long III in the suburban Atlanta district.

A newly drawn majority Black House District 145 covering Monroe and Macon-Bibb counties that is up for grabs saw Tangie Herring leading Juawn Jackson by 1,262 to 929 votes, or 53% to 47% of overall votes, according to unofficial results. The winner will face Republican Noah Redding Harbuck.

After Tuesdays GOP primary results, Columbia County contractor Rob Clifton replaced Evans Republican Rep. Jodi Lott, who announced last year that she would not seek reelection for District 131. Clifton on Tuesday defeated retired educator Paul Abbott by earning 1,561 votes to Abbotts 569.

Arlene Beckles will replace retiring Duluth Democratic Rep. Pedro Marin in the state House District 96 after defeating Sonia Lopez Tuesday by 217 votes to 116 votes. No Republican candidates qualified for the primary for the Gwinnett district.

Also on Tuesday, Gwinnett Republican J. Gregory Howard emerged the victor of Senate District 7 primary runoff with a 1,347 to 840 edge over construction company owner Fred Clayton. Howard will challenge Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes, a Duluth Democrat, in the general election.

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A woman sits on a carpet in her home office and works on a laptop. Sebastian Kahnert/dpa

Jobs offering the chance to work from home boomed in Germany during the pandemic, but have continued to grow even afterwards, according to an analysis by the Bertelsmann Foundation released on Wednesday.

The proportion of online job advertisements with the option to work from home has increased fivefold since 2019, according to the report.

Before the start of the coronavirus pandemic, working from home played almost no role in German work culture.

In 2019, only 3.7% of all online job advertisements offered the option of working from home. By 2022, this figure had risen to 16.8% and, according to the study, is now included in 17.6% of online job listings examined by the researchers.

The report found that the growth trend, which has continued even after the end of the pandemic, varies by region and industry. According to the report, the western German city of Dusseldorf is the "German home office capital."

The IT sector is particularly open to working from home, according to the report, with the option almost standard in job postings.

Foreign language teachers were even more likely to be offered work from home options at 72%, which is presumably due to the many virtual courses on offer.

At the bottom end of the scale in 2023 are professions in the skilled trades and geriatric care - hardly surprising, as there is practically no alternative to working on-site in those fields.

The foundation analysed a total of 55 million online job advertisements. The analysis shows what companies are advertising, but did not evaluate how often employees actually work from home.

"Working from home has not only become established in many industries. It is becoming an important argument in the battle for skilled workers," said labour market expert Gunvald Herdin from the Bertelsmann Foundation.
Benin bronze commemorative head of a king in 3D print as a reproduction from the Bode Museum Berlin, can be seen in the exhibition "This is colonial" (Das ist kolonial). The exhibit, at Dortmund's LWL Industrial Museum at Zeche Zollern is dedicated to the traces of colonialism and the consequences of German colonial policy in the region that still have an impact today. Dieter Menne/dpa

A broom displayed at Dortmund's LWL Industrial Museum at Zeche Zollern tells a poignant story about the enduring impact of German colonial history: The sturdy street brush, still available today, is crafted from fibers of the piassava palm.

"Owners of a piassava bristle factory in Herford became millionaires with this product," explains curator Barbara Frey, as she speaks about a product that is native to Brazil.

This colonial-era household item, emblematic of economic exploitation in the colonies, is just one of 250 exhibits featured in a comprehensive exhibition organized by the Landschaftsverband Westfalen Lippe (LWL), a regional economic organization.

The item, one of the exhibit's more innocuous, will be on display as part of the show "This is colonial" (Das ist kolonial). The exhibit opens on Thursday evening and runs until October 2025. The LWL aims to make the legacy of German colonial history in Westphalia more visible.

The museum has concealed some of the exhibits behind frosted glass - primarily out of consideration for people who have experienced racism due to their appearance or skin colour. The viewer has to approach, change their perspective or lift a slide.

"When we talk about colonialism, we also have to talk about racism," warns Zola Wiegand M'Pembele, who contributed to the accompanying booklet for children and will guide visitors through the exhibition. "The two are closely linked," Wiegand M'Pembele, who is black, says.

For people of color, seeing stereotypical depictions of Africa or objects linked to their own family history can be painful, she explains.

There is, for example, a missionary donation box in the form of a black boy kneeling and nodding gratefully after inserting a coin.

For instance, there's a missionary donation box shaped like a kneeling black boy, gratefully nodding after receiving a coin. Photos depict "Volkerschauen," exhibitions where people with black skin were displayed like zoo animals, and children's books like Pippi Longstocking, in which the N-word was still used in older editions.

The exhibition also touches on topics such as looted art, its restitution, and the resistance of indigenous groups against foreign rule, often leading to wars and genocide.

Museum organizers emphasize that these exhibits highlight how deeply rooted colonial structures continue to influence society today.

"Our common goal is to show the traces of colonialism and its consequences for our society in the region today and to shed light on this previously overlooked topic from diverse perspectives," says LWL Director Georg Lunemann.

The history of the exhibition's creation underscores significant divergences in perspectives: A participatory workshop from the exhibition's inception ensured that many voices, including those from marginalized groups, were heard.

This workshop, designated as a so-called "Safer Spaces," was reserved for people of colour for four hours every week. Months after the workshop was launched, the museum was accused of marginalizing white people in posts on social media.

The museum received a flood of comments which, according to the museum, were of a racist and offensive nature. Right-wing slogans were posted on the museum gate, and the museum called the police. According to the museum, the police subsequently investigated several cases on suspicion of incitement to hatred.

Local far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) politicians fumed that this was an example of publicly funded "racism against whites." However, their demands for the dismissal of the museum management and other consequences went unheard.

Others saw the AfD as orchestrating a campaign seeking to stifle artistic freedom. Olaf Zimmermann, managing director of the German Cultural Council, spoke of a "perfidious campaign" by AfD politicians in response to the wave of criticism.

He added: "Right-wing forces want to restrict our artistic freedom. We must not allow that."

Museum Director Anne Kugler-Muhlhofer said at the presentation of the exhibition that the "Safer Spaces" format had been further developed following the experience gained. There will also be group-specific programmes to accompany the exhibition. She did not provide other details.

"The LWL Museum has done pioneering work with this 'Safer Space' approach," adds Wiegand M'Pembele - especially in a museum world in which a Eurocentric perspective continues to dominate. She and others in the curatorial team would therefore like to see more protected spaces in which non-white people can engage with such topics.

A poster for the exhibition project "This is colonial" (Das ist kolonial) hangs next to the entrance to the Zeche Zollern Museum. For a few days now, the museum has been confronted with a flood of comments. The reason: for four hours every Saturday, the room is reserved as a so-called "Safer Space" for people of colour. Alex Talash/dpa
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, attends the meeting of the German Cabinet in the Federal Chancellery. Kay Nietfeld/dpa

A controversial debate in Germany over whether to resume deportations of convicted criminals to Syria and Afghanistan was the main topic of discussions as interior ministers from the country's 16 states convened just outside of Berlin on Wednesday evening.

The state ministers are pushing to resume deportations to both countries despite gruesome records of serious human rights abuses for the regimes in power there.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz has previously backed such a change, and Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck voiced his support on Wednesday, at least in cases where individuals are suspected terrorists or convicted of very serious crimes like murder.

Deportations have been a hot-button issue in Germany since a policeman was killed by a knife-wielding Afghan migrant during an attack in the city of Mannheim last month.

Refugee advocacy organizations and far-left politicians have criticized the proposals, contending that forcibly sending people back to Syria or Afghanistan clashes with Germany's constitution and its commitments under international law.

Asylum and immigration policy are expected to dominate the agenda for the three-day gathering in Potsdam, a Berlin suburb.

Those topics are also expected to be high on the agenda when Scholz meets with the premiers of Germany's states on Thursday in Berlin.

"Anyone who commits serious crimes here must leave the country, even if they come from Afghanistan," said Hamburg's interior minister, Andy Grote, of the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD).

Michael Stubgen, the interior minister in the eastern state of Brandenburg, argued that Germany can justify talks with the Taliban, the radical Islamist movement that rules Afghanistan, and also that the security situation has improved in parts of war-torn Syria controlled by President Bashar al-Assad.

Germany has not deported anyone to Afghanistan since August 2021, when Taliban forces seized control in Kabul.

Federal Interior Minister Nancy Faeser is expected to give her state-level colleagues a closed-door briefing on ongoing efforts by her ministry to determine how to carry out those deportations.

"We are negotiating confidentially with various countries in order to open up ways to make deportations to Afghanistan possible again," Faeser confirmed in an interview with the Neue Osnabrucker newspaper. "And we want to consistently expel and deport Islamist threats."

Outsourcing asylum proceedings?

Faeser's ministry is also looking into the possibility of doing asylum proceedings in a third country outside the European Union, a controversial proposal that has gained traction with conservative and hard-right politicians in Germany and across Europe.

The United Kingdom has signed a deal to send asylum seekers to Rwanda while their claims are processed, while Italy has plans to set up a similar arrangement with Albania.

More than 300 advocacy groups and international organizations published an open letter addressed to Scholz on Wednesday decrying that possibility.

"Please issue a clear rejection of plans to outsource asylum procedures," the authors demand in the letter published on Wednesday. The signatories include Amnesty International Germany, Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) and the migrant advocacy group Pro Asyl.

The authors of the open letter warn that serious human rights abuses are foreseeable if asylum proceedings are outsourced to countries outside the EU. They argue that receiving asylum-seekers and integrating them into society can work smoothly with greater cooperation.

"Plans to deport refugees to non-European third countries or to carry out asylum procedures outside the EU, on the other hand, do not work in practice, are extremely expensive and pose a threat to the rule of law," the letters states.

According to the authors, current debate about the plan in both Germany and other EU countries is already having an impact.

"Such plans often cause great fear among refugees and increase the risk of self-harm and suicide," according to the letter.

Leaders of major Protestant Christian organizations also voiced their opposition to third-country asylum proceedings on Wednesday, and expressed concern about deporting people to Afghanistan and Syria.

The plans to outsource asylum procedures to third countries "lack solidarity and are questionable in terms of human rights," said the president of the Protestant charity group Bread for the World, Dagmar Pruin.

"Shirking one's own responsibility for people in need by burdening other, poorer countries with the task is irresponsible, unlawful and unrealistic. It de facto abolishes refugee law," added Anna-Nicole Heinrich, the president of the Synod of the Evangelical Church in Germany, the umbrella organization for mainstream Protestant denominations in the country.

Benefit cuts for Ukrainians?

Another controversial proposal is potentially cutting the welfare benefits paid to Ukrainian refugees in Germany, a move backed by some state ministers.

Currently, a special exemption has allowed Ukrainians to claim full long-term unemployment benefits instead of the more limited benefits available under Germany's Asylum Seekers Benefits Act.

Some conservative politicians, such as the interior minister of the eastern state of Brandenburg, Michael Stubgen, have argued that the more generous benefits have made Ukrainian refugees more reluctant to seek work.

Scholz's coalition government has rejected the proposal, and the German Association of Cities came out against it on Wednesday as well.
Minister-President of Rhineland-PalatinateMalu Dreyer attends the presentation of the 24th KEF report. Monika Skolimowska/dpa

The premier of the western German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, Malu Dreyer, announced her resignation on Wednesday.

Dreyer, a Social Democrat who has led the state since 2013, said she would leave the post in July.

The reason for her decision was not immediately clear, although there had been considerable speculation about her possible retirement. Her office said she would address her resignation at a 2pm (1200GMT) news conference.

Dreyer's resignation comes less than two weeks after her Social Democratic Party (SPD) suffered a major defeat in European Parliament elections, and also lost ground in local elections held in the state.

Sources told dpa that she would be replaced by Alexander Schweitzer, another Social Democrat. He currently serves as the state's minister for labour and social affairs.

That would give the 50-year-old Schweitzer the opportunity to head into the next state parliamentary election - scheduled for 2026 - as an incumbent.

Political scientist Uwe Jun acknowledged on Wednesday that Dreyer had chosen a good time to step down with less than two years before the next state election.

Jun told dpa that her successor will have enough time to take office and make his mark, although Jun said that Schweitzer has "very big shoes to fill" given Dreyer's long tenure and very high popularity ratings among voters in the state.

The main challenger for the post in 2026 is expected to be Gordon Schnieder of the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU).

The SPD has held power in the state since 1991, but appeared to lose ground in the recent voting. Sources in both the SPD and CDU had said that state party leaders planned to begin preparations for the 2026 vote after the EU elections.

Sources told dpa that two other Social Democrats - state Interior Minister Michael Ebling and state parliamentary group leader Sabine Batzing-Lichtenthaler - had also been considered as possible successors to Dreyer.

On Wednesday, dpa also learned that long-time state SPD party chairman for Rhineland-Palitanate, Roger Lewentz, also plans to resign and will be replaced by Batzing-Lichtenthaler.
Minister President of Rhineland-Palatinate Malu Dreyer announces her resignation for health reasons at a press conference in the State Chancellery. The Minister President will step down from the office she has held since 2013. Helmut Fricke/dpa

The premier of the western German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, Malu Dreyer, announced her resignation on Wednesday.

Dreyer, a Social Democrat who has led the state since 2013, said she no longer had the energy required for the job and would step down from the post in July.

"I am leaving with a heavy heart because I am not tired of the job," Dreyer said in Mainz, the state capital.

But Dryer said the work has become draining and she must muster more and more energy for the job, which is pushing her to her limits.

"I'm 63, so I'm not very old yet. But I have to admit to myself that it's not the same as when I was 50," she said.

Dreyer's resignation comes less than two weeks after her Social Democratic Party (SPD) suffered a major defeat in European Parliament elections, and also lost ground in local elections held in the state.

Dreyer said that Alexander Schweitzer, another Social Democrat, will be her replacement. He currently serves as the state's minister for labour and social affairs. Dreyer said Schweitzer was unanimously selected for the post by the SPD's faction in the state parliament.

That would give the 50-year-old Schweitzer the opportunity to head into the next state parliamentary election - scheduled for 2026 - as an incumbent.

In her remarks, Dreyer described the catastrophic and deadly 2021 floods in the Ahr Valley in the state as a painful turning point in her life. Dreyer faced intense criticism over the handling of the disaster.

"It was also a painful turning point for me, which also divides my life or my life into a time before and after," she said on Wednesday.

Political scientist Uwe Jun said on Wednesday that Dreyer had chosen a good time to step down with less than two years before the next state election.

Jun told dpa that her successor will have enough time to take office and make his mark, although Jun said that Schweitzer has "very big shoes to fill" given Dreyer's long tenure and very high popularity ratings among voters in the state.

Dreyer said she plans to take a rest and "simply do nothing" for a bit once she leaves the job in July.

The main challenger for the post in 2026 is expected to be Gordon Schnieder of the centre-right Christian Democrats (CDU).

The SPD has held power in the state since 1991, but lost ground in the recent voting. Sources in both the SPD and CDU had said that state party leaders planned to begin preparations for the 2026 vote after the EU elections.

Sources told dpa that two other Social Democrats - state Interior Minister Michael Ebling and state parliamentary group leader Sabine Batzing-Lichtenthaler - had also been considered as possible successors to Dreyer.

On Wednesday, long-time state SPD party chairman for Rhineland-Palitanate, Roger Lewentz, also announced plans to resign. Dreyer said that he will be replaced by Batzing-Lichtenthaler.

Minister President of Rhineland-Palatinate Malu Dreyer announces her resignation for health reasons at a press conference in the State Chancellery. The Minister President will step down from the office she has held since 2013. Helmut Fricke/dpa

Minister President of Rhineland-Palatinate Malu Dreyer (L) and her designated successor Alexander Schweitzer, current Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Transformation and Digitalization, arrive for a press conference at the State Chancellery. The Minister President will step down from the office she has held since 2013. Arne Dedert/dpa
GENEVA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) may have repeatedly violated fundamental principles of the laws of war in a series of prohibited indiscriminate attacks on Gaza, according to a report issued by the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Office on Wednesday.

Released during the 56th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, the report details six notable attacks targeting Gaza's residential buildings, a school, refugee camps, and a market between Oct. 9 and Dec. 2, 2023, which involved the suspected use of GBU-31, GBU-32 and GBU-39 bombs.

GBU-31, 32 and 39 bombs are mostly used to penetrate through several floors of concrete and can completely collapse tall structures. Given how densely populated the areas targeted were, the use of an explosive weapon with such wide area effects is highly likely to amount to a prohibited indiscriminate attack, the report finds.

These attacks "led to high numbers of civilian fatalities and widespread destruction of civilian objects, raising serious concerns under the laws of war with respect to the principles of distinction, proportionality and precautions in attack," said the report.

"The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimize to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign," said UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk.

The report also noted that unlawful targeting when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack on a civilian population, in line with a state or organizational policy, may also implicate the commission of crimes against humanity.

"Israel's choices of methods and means of conducting hostilities in Gaza since Oct. 7, including the use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in densely populated areas, have failed to ensure that they effectively distinguish between civilians and combatants," it said.

Although the report primarily focuses on Israel, it also highlights that Palestinian armed groups have continued to fire indiscriminate projectiles toward Israel, inconsistent with their obligations under international humanitarian law. 
German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Robert Habeck makes a statement at the military section of Berlin Brandenburg Airport before his trip to South Korea and China. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa

German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck has spoken out in favour of deporting suspected terrorists and dangerous individuals who have immigrated to the country.

Habeck, a member of the Green Party, said that anyone convicted of a serious crime such as murder should not enjoy a right to asylum in Germany even as they trample the country's laws and order.

That could mean sending people back to countries considered unsafe, even if they potentially faced persecution there.

"In plain language, this means that I think that someone like the perpetrator of the police murder must be convicted, must serve his sentence and can then be deported and should be deported," Habeck said.

Those remarks refer to a recent violent attack in the German city of Mannheim, where a knife-wielding migrant killed a policeman.

Habeck noted that the Interior Ministry was looking closely at what is possible with regard to the deportation of serious criminals.

Interior ministers from all 16 German states are meeting near Berlin on Wednesday to discuss immigration policy, including controversial proposals to allow deportations of serious criminals and people deemed Islamist extremists to countries including Syria and Afghanistan.

German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Robert Habeck makes a statement at the military section of Berlin Brandenburg Airport before his trip to South Korea and China. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa
EXCLUSIVE: A new documentary will tell the harrowing story of 10 youngsters who fled the Nova Music Festival on October 7. They were subsequently attacked as they took cover in a bunker and had to hide under the bodies of those who had been killed to survive.

The Hamas attack on the Nova Festival marked the beginning of the October 7 assault on Israel and sparked the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, which has so far claimed an estimated 37,000 lives.

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The group in the film managed to exit the festival quickly and hoped they had found safety by sheltering in one of the many bunkers on the edge of Gaza. In the subsequent eight hours, however, they were subject to machine gun and grenade attacks. Icon Docs has secured footage from the festivalgoers and interviews with them as they process what happened.

Icon Docs, which is the documentary unit of German studio Bavaria Fiction, hopes to have the film ready for broadcast in time for the first anniversary of October 7.

Emanuel Rotstein, the labels Head of Documentaries and Executive Producer, told Deadline he was approached by a colleague whose friend had a son who was in the shelter.

He survived the terror attack in a bomb shelter. Not only him, but a group of friends. My colleague said: Whatever happens we are going to record it for the future as an historical document.

The filmmakers have the interview footage as well as video and photos shot during the festival and from inside the bunker in which the youngsters sought shelter. The doc also captures the story of a father trying to reach his daughter in the shelter when he hears about what is happening.

The interview footage with the youngsters was captured soon after they survived the attack on the bunker. They sat together with a cameraman and director and they basically started to tell the story, from the first time they heard about this trance music festival until the moment they were released from the hospital, Rotstein explained.

He added: They manage, minute-by-minute, to explain in very raw and still unbiased language, what has happened. Everything they say to the camera was still undistorted by the political events and what has happened in the months since.

The doc is one of a number that has been commissioned since October 7 about the events. Yes Studios was behind #NOVA, chronicling the events of the day, Bad Boys studio Sipur has made We Will Dance Again and a feature is in the works about sexual atrocities committed by Hamas, fronted by Sheryl Sandberg.

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German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Robert Habeck makes a statement at the military section of Berlin Brandenburg Airport before his trip to South Korea and China. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa

Grappling with the dark Nazi past of his own family deeply shaped German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, he says in a new magazine interview set to be published on Thursday.

"Even as a teenager, I was intensively involved with the history of my family," Habeck told Bunte magazine.

Habeck's great-grandfather Walter Granzow (1887-1952) belonged to the innermost leadership circle of Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler's regime and was a close friend of Nazi Propaganda Minister Joseph Goebbels.

He was also a brigade leader in the notorious Nazi SS paramilitary and was convicted as a war criminal after World War II.

Habeck's grandfather Kurt Granzow (1912-1952) was also a Nazi and held the high-ranking position of Obersturmfuhrer in the SA stormtrooper paramilitary group.

"I often talked about [the family's Nazi past] with my grandmother and my mother," Habeck told the magazine. "It was a very personal confrontation with the guilt of my great-grandfather and my grandfather. This personal confrontation helped to shape my political thinking, actions and speeches and still holds me politically accountable today."

According to dpa information, none of Walter Granzow's assets were passed on to the family of Robert Habeck's mother because his property was confiscated without compensation as part of his war crimes conviction.

Habeck's mother grew up as a refugee child without any family wealth.

German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Robert Habeck makes a statement at the military section of Berlin Brandenburg Airport before his trip to South Korea and China. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa
Germany's Habeck sets off on East Asia trip - first stop South Korea

Robert Habeck, German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection, pictured at the Ukraine conference. The international reconstruction conference for Ukraine will take place in Berlin on June 11 and 12. Britta Pedersen/dpa

Germany's Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck sets off on a trip to East Asia on Wednesday.

His first destination is South Korea, where the Economy Minister wants to meet representatives from politics and business. The Green politician will be accompanied by a business delegation and members of the Bundestag.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs says South Korea is Germany's second most important market in Asia with goods exports - mainly of cars and car parts - worth around 20 billion ($21.5 billion).

South Korea, for its part, is an important producer of information and communication technology.

Tensions on the border with communist-ruled North Korea are rising once again. Habeck plans to travel on to China on Friday.
German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Robert Habeck makes a statement at the military section of Berlin Brandenburg Airport before his trip to South Korea and China. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa

German Economy Minister Robert Habeck set off on a trip to East Asia on Wednesday, with stopovers planned in South Korea and China.

Ahead of his departure, Habeck said that relations between China and Germany had become "significantly more complex," referring to trade disputes such as the European Union's threat to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.

The tariff issue "will certainly have a major impact on the trip, even though the [European] Commission is in the lead and is conducting the negotiations there," Habeck said.

He also anticipated Russia's ongoing war in the Ukraine to "resonate" as an issue throughout the trip. Habeck said he also plans to address human rights issues in China.

"Conversely, China is an important trading partner for Germany," the Green minister noted.

His first destination is South Korea, where Habeck plans to meet politicians and business figures. He is accompanied by a business delegation and members of Germany's parliament, the Bundestag.

South Korea is Germany's second-largest foreign trade market in Asia, with goods exports - mainly of cars and car parts - worth around 20 billion ($21.5 billion), according to Germany's Ministry of Economic Affairs, which Habeck leads.

South Korea, for its part, is an important producer of information and communication technology.

The visit to South Korea comes as tensions on the border with communist-ruled North Korea are rising once again.

Habeck is scheduled to travel on to China on Friday.

German Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection Robert Habeck makes a statement at the military section of Berlin Brandenburg Airport before his trip to South Korea and China. Sebastian Christoph Gollnow/dpa
Gibson County Sheriff Paul Thomas takes a phone call during an election party at 1065 Pleasant Cove in Milan, Tenn., Thursday, Aug. 2, 2018.

Paul Thomas, Gibson County Sheriff indicted on 22 counts in two counties for engaging in misconduct to profit from inmate labor, is scheduled to be arraigned in Gibson County Circuit Court on July 10.

His former court date of Sept. 16 has been moved up in the calendar due to the sooner availability of the new judge assigned to his case, according to Gibson County Court Clerk Cindy Flowers.

Judge Mark Ward of Shelby County has replaced Gibson County Circuit Court Judge Clayburn Peeples, exclusively in the matter of the State of Tennessee v. Paul Thomas.

Thomas has served as a witness and defendant in several cases during his tenure as sheriff. The presiding judge in many of them was Peeples.

More: Tennessee sheriff facing 24 charges in 2 counties gets two new July court dates

More: Gibson Co. Sheriff indicted on 18 counts of misconduct, inmate labor for personal gain

More: Tennessee sheriff faces 22 charges in 2 counties, accused of profiting from inmate labor

Indicted on May 6 in Gibson County, Thomas faces 18 felony charges of official misconduct for his role in exploiting inmate labor for personal gain.

He was also indicted on May 2 in Davidson County and faces four counts of theft, computer crimes, and forgery. Davidson County charges include one count of theft of property over $60,000, two counts of computer crimes over $60,000, and one count of forgery over $60,000.

More: FBI confirms search warrant issued for Gibson Co. Sheriff Paul Thomas home, other locations

Thomas is scheduled to be arraigned in Davidson County on July 24.

Allegations detailed in the investigative report from the state comptroller's office include:

In 2020, Thomas and a group of local investors created three for-profit businesses known collectively as the Alliance Group.

The three businesses provided staffing assistance to local businesses, housed current and former inmates at a transitional home called Orchard House and provided transportation to work release inmates and former inmates traveling to and from work.

Thomas directed a little more than $1.4 million in inmate wage fees and deductions to profit the Alliance Group from February 2020-October 2022, and at least 170 inmates in Thomas custody were employed by the Alliance staffing agency during the investigation.

Thomas, who held a 20% ownership interest in Alliance, received more than $181,000 in compensation, payroll benefits and legal representation services from the businesses, which the investigation claims came through inmate labor.

Thomas allowed 74 Tennessee Department of Correction inmates held in the Gibson County jail to reside at Orchard House without proper approval from a judge. The sheriff is accused of continuing to show the jail as the inmate location in the states offender management system, which resulted in the county collecting $507,273 in reimbursements from the state department of corrections that were disbursed to Orchard House without the state agency's knowledge or consent.

Thomas directed $448,637.09 of wages earned by inmates working for Alliance to be deposited into a private account owned and controlled by the Alliance Group instead of having their wages deposited into an inmate trust account.

Reporters Craig Shoup, Andy Humbles and Nicole Young contributed to this story.

Sarah Best is a reporter for The Jackson Sun. To support local journalism, subscribe to the Daily Briefing here.

This article originally appeared on Jackson Sun: July court dates set for Gibson Co. Sheriff in two counties
GLOUCESTER, Va. (WAVY)  The owner of a Gloucester County cat said it is a miracle that it survived after being shot in the head, and now shes wondering who would do such a thing.

The Hampton Animal Response Team is investigating after Joanna Yeomans eight-year-old cat, Betelgeuse, was shot. The shooting came after the cat had gone missing toward the end of May.

After he had been missing a few days, Yeoman began to worry. A few days turned into two weeks before she heard his meowing late one evening in a neighbors backyard.



He was back there, and it took me awhile to get to him, she said. I didnt recognize his face; he had lost a lot of weight. He had dried blood over his chest and on his face.



Yeomans rushed him to a vet in Richmond, arriving at 11 p.m. They got him stabilized, and the bloodwork looked good. They thought hed been hit by a car, but then the vet noticed something  shrapnel showing up in a head x-ray.



He said, well, hes been shot in the head, Yeoman said. I was horrified and so upset, just so upset. I was living a nightmare.



Amazingly, the small caliber bullet missed any vital organ.



He was shot in the face. It went in the side of his nose. It shattered the hard palate and then came out through the neck.



Grateful that hes even alive, shes now feeding him through a tube in his neck. A metal plate holds together the hole in his mouth until it heals. Yeomans started a GoFundMe in hopes of raising the $6,000 now needed for his care.

Even when I went to pick him up that night that I found him, he was purring, she said. Theres not a mean bone in his body. So, again, its just hard to believe someone would hate a cat that much.

Shooting a cat is a felony in the state of Virginia. Yeomans said Animal Control is investigating. Yeomans is appreciative of everyone who has reached out, including her neighbors and pet sitter who have helped feed Betelgeuse while shes at work.

Want to help?

If youd like to help out with Betelgeuses expenses, you can donate to his GoFundMe.

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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, visits and researches the 30th Beijing International Book Fair in Beijing, capital of China, June 19, 2024. The book fair commenced at the China National Convention Center in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The 30th Beijing International Book Fair commenced in Beijing on Wednesday, drawing a wider participation of foreign exhibitors compared to last year.

With an expanded exhibition area of 55,000 square meters this year, the five-day event has gathered around 1,600 exhibitors from 71 countries and regions, showcasing 220,000 Chinese and foreign publications to visitors, according to the organizers.

The fair has seen an increase of 150 overseas participants compared to the previous year, featuring 1,050 exhibitors from abroad, accounting for 66 percent of the total participants.

Compared to 2023, this year's event has welcomed 15 new participating countries, including Azerbaijan, Qatar, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Nigeria.

More than 20 countries, including France, Germany and Italy, are hosting national booths. Saudi Arabia is this year's Country of Honor.

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, has visited and researched the book fair.

The Beijing International Book Fair, established in 1986, is one of the world's largest book fairs and serves as a major platform for copyright exchange, facilitating the trading of publications from China and abroad, including print books and multimedia works. 
Area fairgoers may notice some upgrades at their respective county or independent fairs this summer.

Gov. Mike DeWine and state officials announced $10 million in grants to support Ohio fairgrounds and enhance fairgoers' experiences.

Locally, Ashland County, Crawford County and Richland County agricultural societies each received $106,831.54.

The money was awarded Monday as part of Ohio's County and Independent Fair Grant Program, which was established to support county and independent agricultural societies with improvements including upgrades to grounds, electrical and sanitation systems, machinery and equipment, and ADA accommodations.

The Richland County Fair will be Aug. 4-10 this year at 750 N. Home Road. (NEWS JOURNAL FILE PHOTO)

Richland County Fairgrounds getting new powerlines, transformers

Jim Schaub, president of the Richland County Agricultural Society, said money will go toward electrical upgrades at the fairgrounds, which are being done this week.

"We're getting new powerlines and transformers installed so we can increase the amount of electricity on the fair grounds," he said. "A lot of our electric is aging and in need of repair."

This year's Richland County Fair is Aug. 4-10.

Kids enjoy the fair rides Friday, Sept. 22, 2023 at the Ashland County Fair.

Ashland County Fairgrounds to see new roofs on three buildings

In Ashland, Cathy Rice, who is co-manager with Barry Litten of the Ashland County Agricultural Society, said the state money will help out the fairgrounds' roof projects.

Rice said the funds will pay for a new roof on the green (merchants) building, scheduled for July, and a new roof, to be completed after the fair, on the dairy barn. Rice said the state funds also will help to pay for the a roof on the Swine barn/arena.

"Our goals were to replace a roof a year. We had planned that and this will really help us out," she said.

The Ashland County Fair will be Sept. 15-21.

Penny and Benjamin McNutt came to the Crawford County Fair last year with their mom, Denise McNutt, and enjoyed having their faces painted by Dale Baer of Child Evangelical Fellowship. The fair this year is July 15-20.

Crawford County Fairgrounds to see grandstand repairs, electrical upgrades

In Crawford County, David Staats, fair manager, said the money will be used for repairs at the grandstands and updating electrical projects at the campground.

The Crawford County Fair is set for July 15-20.

Investing in Ohios county and independent fairs means investing in some of Ohios most beloved traditions," said DeWine in a news release. These improvements will ensure that our fairgrounds remain safe and accessible for everyone.

Grants will support a variety of projects, including new grandstands, repairing or replacing dilapidated buildings, new or improved restroom facilities, parking and camping sites, and ADA accessibility improvements like ramp additions and improved pathways. Several projects include electrical upgrades, lighting improvements, and additional directional and traffic signage.

All 94 county and independent fairs applied and received funding. Funding for the program was made possible with support from the 135th Ohio General Assembly in House Bill 33, which specifies funds should be distributed evenly among all eligible grant applicants. Applicants were awarded up to $106,831.54, with two fairs requesting a lower amount. The program is administered by the Ohio Department of Development.

Our local fairs are truly a place of agricultural tradition and celebration, said Brian Baldridge, director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture, in the release. People from communities everywhere come to visit and learn about agriculture because of the quality of programming at our fairs. These dollars will continue to uplift and improve each and every fairground across the state. Ohio is home to 94 county and independent fairs across the state. The fair season officially kicked off June 8 with the Paulding County Fair and will wrap up Oct. 12 with the Fairfield County Fair. A complete list of Ohios fairs is available on the Department of Agricultures website.

lwhitmir@gannett.com

419-521-7223

X (formerly Twitter): @LWhitmir

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Ohio is home to 94 county and independent fairs across the state.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said Tuesday that he discussed South Korean investment in Georgia and international security during a meeting with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul.

The Republican Kemp has been visiting South Korea for a week, focusing mainly on visiting South Korean businesses that currently do business in Georgia, as well as those who might open locations there.

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However, Kemp has also visited the demilitarized zone between South Korea and North Korea.

Following roughly two decades of prosperity and economic growth as a result of our strong partnership, it was an honor to meet with President Yoon to reflect on the valued friendship between both our state and nation, and the incredible opportunities it has helped create for both our people, Kemp said in a statement.

A former prosecutor, Yoon was elected as the nominee of the right-wing People Power Party in 2022. He served as the nations prosecutor general from 2019 to 2021. His party, which was already in the minority, lost further ground to the rival Democratic Party in South Koreas legislative elections earlier this year.

Kemp and a 15-person delegation, including Georgia state lawmakers and economic recruiters, have been meeting with companies with large operations in Georgia, including Hyundai Motor Group, LG Group, SK Group, Hanwha Qcells and CJ Foodville.

TRENDING STORIES:

Hyundai is building a $7.6 billion automotive assembly complex near Savannah, with LG Group building a battery plant there. SK Group owns a battery plant in Commerce and is building a plant to make semiconductor materials in Covington, while Hyundai and SK are jointly building a $5 billion batter plant in Cartersville. Hanwha Qcells owns solar panel plants in Dalton and Cartersville. CJ Foodville is building a bakery in Gainesville.

Its Kemps sixth official trip abroad as governor. He went to South Korea in 2019, Germany in 2020, Israel in May 2023 and the nation of Georgia and France in June 2023. He also attended the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January 2023 and 2024.

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LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY)  A bill that allows Louisiana parents to use tax dollars to pay to send their kids to a school of their choice was signed into law today.

Gov. Jeff Landry signed the LA Gator Scholarship Program into law, which begins the phase-in of Education Scholarship Accounts. The signing, which included over a dozen education bills, was held at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic School in Lafayette.

The signing, which took place before a crowd of educators and legislators, with students in the background, includes a bill that removes excessive mandates on educators, and also bills that deal with students based on their birth sexual orientation.

Perhaps the most controversial bill signed was one requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all classrooms in all schools. The American Civil Liberties Union, the American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana, Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Freedom from Religion Foundation have already announced that they will file suit to challenge the law.

The final bill signed, the LA GATOR scholarships, provides money for parents to send their children to a school outside of public school, including private school.

The Governor also signed a bill to allow school boards to accept volunteer chaplains into schools.

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Gov. Phil Murphy speaks about launching a new expedited clemency initiative and establishing a clemency advisory board at Saint James A.M.E. Church in Newark on June 19, 2024. (Jake Hirsch/Governors Office)

Gov. Phil Murphy signed an executive order Wednesday intended to speed clemency applications to his desk in hopes of extending pardons to thousands of New Jerseyans in and out of the states jails and prisons.

Murphys order creates a board that will review clemency applications and make non-binding recommendations about which requests should be granted in an effort to expand grants of clemency beyond friends and allies of the governor, as has often been the practice in New Jersey and elsewhere.

Historically speaking here in New Jersey, receiving a pardon or having your sentence commuted was not a matter of either fairness or objectivity, Murphy said at Saint James A.M.E. Church in Newark. It was a matter of who you knew or how well connected you were to those in power. With the executive order Im signing today, we are changing that.

Rapper Meek Mill  real name Robert Rihmeek Williams spoke at Wednesdays announcement in support of the initiative. He became a champion for criminal justice reform because of a 2007 arrest on gun and drug charges in Philadelphia that prosecutors later conceded may have been improper. The states Superior Court in 2019 vacated the rappers conviction, citing credibility problems with the arresting officer.

Everything youre talking about  clemency, second chances, giving people a fair shot  I grew up on that side of life, and I never thought I would be in rooms like this, the rapper said Wednesday. You guys give me the courage and the energy to use my platform to keep pushing forward to better our communities.

Murphys order comes two days after Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a Democrat, signed an order pardoning 17,000 misdemeanor cannabis-related convictions (cannabis use is legal in that state for those over 21).

Murphys order, which comes after lobbying by the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey, directs the board to expedite applications if they pass a two-pronged test based on time and the offense for which they seek a pardon. The governor says he expects the first batch of clemencies to come in roughly six months.

Clemency seekers who are no longer incarcerated would be eligible for expedited review if 10 years had passed since the end of their sentence, including parole, probation, and court diversionary programs. That time bar falls to five years for applicants who are 60 or older or who were no older than 25 at the time of their offense.

They could meet the offense test if the crime for which they seek a pardon was not subject to the No Early Release Act or is no longer illegal.

Corrections is based upon providing the opportunity for second chances, and our criminal and justice systems must provide meaningful opportunities for rehabilitation and redemption, said Corrections Commissioner Victoria Kuhn.

The order bars clemency for offenses involving public corruption. Those with pending charges or who have been convicted outside of New Jersey for crimes that would prevent expedited review are likewise ineligible.

Murphys order creates a separate process for those who are currently incarcerated. Such individuals would be eligible for expedited review if they were a victim of sex trafficking or domestic violence, they were handed an excessive sentence, or they were convicted of a crime that is no longer illegal or has had its penalties reduced.

Regardless of a persons carceral status, they are eligible for expedited review if the conviction review unit within the Office of the Attorney General refers the application to the new board for that purpose.

The Department of Corrections will work to solicit clemency applications from those still jailed, Murphy said, while those who have completed their sentences must apply online.

Sometime in the future, I suspect after Ive hung my cleats up, there will be an opportunity for somebody to press a button and automatically know whos eligible or is considering eligibility, but today we dont have it, Murphy said. So, the responsibilitys going to be out there on the individual to come to us.

The six-member board must include the New Jersey attorney general and five public members, among whom there must be a retired judge, an experienced defense attorney, an expert on clemency, and a victim advocate.

Murphy has selected Justin Dews, a former senior counsel to the governor, as the boards chair. The panels members will serve at the governors pleasure and receive no compensation.

Clemency, whether it be a pardon or a commutation, is transformational, Dews said Wednesday. A pardon removes barriers that the law erects. Commutations shortens sentences. What the law says you cannot do, a pardon restores, and what the law says you must face, a pardon wipes away.

Murphy has not issued any pardons since taking office in early 2018, and executive clemencies are a relative rarity in New Jersey.

Since Christine Todd Whitman became governor in 1994, the states executives have issued just 105 pardons and commutations, with most coming at the end of a governors lame-duck term.

Chris Christie, who issued more pardons than any governor since at least 1994, issued 15 clemencies in his first seven years in office, pardoned 38 in his last year, and commuted the sentences of three others.

Murphy on Wednesday declined to rule out issuing pardons or clemencies to individuals the board did not recommend should receive them.

The post Gov. Murphy order launches expansive clemency program appeared first on New Jersey Monitor.
(BCN)  California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed eight new judges to superior courts in the greater Bay Area, his office announced this week.

A new judge will take the bench in Contra Costa County, Marin County, Napa County, San Francisco County, Santa Clara County and San Mateo County, in addition to two new judges in San Joaquin County. The appointments were part of a larger push to fill superior court vacancies, with Newsom elevating 15 judges across the state, according to a press release Tuesday from the governors office.

Superior courts hold trials for both criminal and civil cases at a county level. The appointees will earn a salary of $238,479 in their new roles, according to the release.

Michael Nieto will fill a vacancy in Contra Costa County Superior Court after working in the Alameda County District Attorneys Office since 1997. Newsom tapped James Schurz out of private law practice to serve in Marin County Superior Court. Schurz was a partner at San Francisco-based law firm Morrison Foerster since 1998.

Thao recall receives enough signatures to appear on November ballot

Robert Stamps will take up a new position as judge in the Napa County Superior Court after serving as a commissioner there since 2021. Adrienne Leight Rogers will serve as a judge for San Francisco Superior Court after working as the managing attorney for the California First District Court of Appeal.

Katy Jacot was elected to the San Joaquin County Superior Court for a term starting in 2025. Newsom appointed her to the court on an interim basis until then so she could immediately assume the position. Gurjit Singh Srai will also join San Joaquin County Superior Court after practicing law independently since 2010.

Like Jacot, Sarah Burdick will join San Mateo County Superior Court on an interim basis before beginning her elected term in 2025. Cynthia Chen joins Santa Clara County Superior Court from the Dependency Advocacy Center.

All of the Bay Area appointees, with the exception of Chen, are registered as Democrats, according to the Tuesday release.

Copyright  2024 Bay City News, Inc.

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Gov. Phil Murphy enacted a new clemency initiative at Saint James A.M.E. Church in Newark on Wednesday morning with crowds of lawmakers, advocates and activists on hand.

The governor said the initiative was a way to ensure that the justice process is fairer and more accessible. Interrupted throughout his remarks by applause, Murphy spoke of the Juneteenth holiday and the need to continue fighting for racial justice to this day.

Our nations journey toward racial justice has proceeded in fits and starts, Murphy said. Over the course of the 20th century, Black and brown Americans won victories in the fight for civil rights like the right to vote but at the same time we also witnessed the emergence of new systems of oppression.

Trenton, NJ  February 27, 2024 -- Governor Phil Murphy's budget address for New Jersey's 2025 fiscal year.

He called mass incarceration the most glaring for the devastation and despair it has caused in communities throughout the country.

Murphy was joined by Lieutenant Gov. Tahesha Way, hip-hop artist Wallace Wallo267 Peeples, Robert "Meek Mill" Williams, co-chair of the REFORM Alliance and Amol Sinha, executive director of the ACLU of New Jersey.

If we are to honor Juneteenth, my friends, and the unique history of African Americans in our nation, we must do more than celebrate this holiday, lament how on long it has taken to reach this point or even just reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial equality in America, Way said. We must simply deliver justice.

More: What did Phil Murphy say about the George Norcross indictment?

Executive order expands access to pardons, commutations

By signing an executive order, Murphy said he plans to make access to expedited consideration for pardons and commutations more widespread because historically such opportunities have been part of a political structure instead of best practices.

The order establishes categories for pending and future clemency applications to receive expedited review during the remainder of Murphys time in office.

Examples include people who have certain non-violent convictions if they have not re-offended for sufficient time, people serving sentences that reflect an excessive trial penalty and victims of domestic or sexual violence or sex trafficking who are incarcerated for committing a crime against the perpetrator  a proposal that garnered enthusiastic support from those in attendance.

The state constitution allows for the governor to issue pardons and commutations at their discretion. While Murphy has not yet issued any pardons, he said that he expects it to take about six months for the new program to be fully up and running.

The governor also established a six-member clemency advisory board to advise him on each clemency application. The members will have diverse experiences and expertise relating to criminal justice and clemency.

The Clemency Advisory Board will be chaired by Justin Dews, formerly counsel for both the Murphy and Biden administrations. Other members include Deputy Solicitor General Michael Zuckerman, Jessica Henry, Bishop Joshua Rodriguez, JoEllyn Jones and Ed Neafsey.

Williams and his organization have worked with other states to change the way probation and parole are considered through legislation and political involvement. They lobbied for legislation to cap probation and parole terms at one to two years for most offenses in California and supported similar bills in Pennsylvania, Michigan and Mississippi.

In addition to todays executive order signing, the state launched a website to serve as a home base for those seeking more information on the governors executive clemency initiative. The website, nj.gov/clemency, also provides attorneys and those representing themselves access to application materials for executive clemency.

Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: sobko@northjersey.com

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Gov. Phil Murphy announces NJ clemency initiative on Juneteenth
Gov. Kevin Stitt signs a law eliminating the state grocery tax on Feb, 27, 2024.(Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  By the time the dust had settled on the legislative session, Gov. Stitt had signed 488 bills and doled out 32 vetoes, some of which were overridden, according to his office.

The veto figures do not include line-item vetoes, where Stitt only objected to certain sections of a bill but approved the remainder.

The deadline was Friday when Stitt signed the remaining 74 bills, many dealing with funding, and vetoed others.

Bills Stitt signed include:

House Bill 2914, dubbed the Oklahoma Sheriffs Office Funding Assistance Grant Program, that provides $17.9 million to help fund local departments.

House Bill 2923 that provides a 7% raise for district, associate and special district judges. It becomes effective July 1 at a cost of nearly $3.2 million. The Legislature rejected a recommendation by the Board on Judicial Compensation for a 17% across-the-board raise for all judges.

House Bill 2896 that provides an additional $74 million for a Department of Public Safety for its centralized training center and related facilities.

Senate Bill 1155 to help finish the Oklahoma Museum of Popular Culture, which is being built in Tulsa.

House Bill 1734 requiring criminal background checks for owners and employees of medical marijuana facilities.

On June 5, Stitt signed Senate Bill 1994 that would allow property owners to ask sheriffs to remove those who are unlawfully occupying the requestors property if certain conditions are met.

Those who unlawfully occupy a property or trespass and cause damages of $1,000 or more would be subject to a felony, a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to three years or both.

On May 31, Stitt signed House Bill 1105 that increased the challenge period for initiative petitions and referendums to 90 days from 10.

Critics said the measure would make it more difficult to get measures on the ballot. Supporters said it was necessary to ensure the integrity of the process.

Stitt also signed Senate Bill 473 creating judicial offices in Tulsa and Oklahoma City for business courts.

It also created an 11-member task force to study the creation of a business court system in Oklahoma. The deadline for the final report is no later than Jan. 1, 2026.

Stitt lobbied for the creation of a business court system during budget negotiations.

Stitt on May 31 approved House Bill 1792, dubbed the Oklahoma Sentencing Modernization Act of 2024, that overhauls felony sentencing to provide more consistency in penalties issued from county to county.

Stitt also signed Senate Bill 1424 that protects poultry producers from civil suits if they are following a state approved waste disposal plan. Chicken waste is sold as fertilizer.

Chicken waste disposal was the subject of a federal lawsuit brought by the state stemming from pollution in the Illinois River Watershed.

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A new government policy will finally force oil and gas companies to think about their pollution: 'This is a critical milestone'

Colorado has created a protocol for measuring, reporting, and verifying methane gas from oil and gas sites. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, this is the first comprehensive framework of its kind that will be key to accurately measuring progress in tackling rising temperatures.

The Colorado Air Pollution Control Division, part of the state's Department of Public Health, has finalized its Greenhouse Gas Intensity Verification Protocol.

Dangerous gas pollution, like that involving methane, has been undercounted and underreported, according to the EDF. The lack of precise data makes it difficult to know accurately how bad the problem is and track progress toward addressing it.

This new protocol was born out of the Greenhouse Gas Intensity Verification Rule that Colorado's Air Quality Control adopted in 2023. This rule requires direct measurement of methane gas releases at production sites, as EDF reports.

The verification rule and protocol fulfill a requirement set by the GHG Intensity Program for Oil and Natural Gas Upstream Segment. This program set a standard to limit the polluting gases from upstream oil and gas operations, including drilling, exploration, and extraction. Colorado set the standards in 2021, and with gases being more accurately assessed, the state can ensure companies comply.

A Colorado House Bill sets targets for the state to meet in reducing polluting gases from the upstream oil and gas sector. The state aims to reduce polluting gases from 2005 levels by 36% by 2025 and 60% by 2030, per the EDF. This new protocol will help track whether it is on target to meet these goals.

The Environmental Defense Fund's blog said, "This is a critical milestone toward using real-world empirical data, and one that the [Air Pollution Control Division] can continue to improve and build upon in future years."

Oil and gas companies have a major impact on community health. A study found that, in 2016, U.S. oil and gas production caused 7,500 excess deaths, 410,000 asthma exacerbations, and 2,200 new childhood asthma cases, costing $77 billion.

By holding the oil and gas companies accountable for the standards set, the world can reduce polluting gases, and these excess deaths and asthma cases can be preventable.

Governments' collective efforts are making a difference. The International Energy Agency released a report predicting a steep decline in m ethane pollution due to the commitments of almost 200 countries at COP28, a United Nations climate conference.

You can also help by changing how you get involved with climate issues, such as advocating for policies like those implemented by Colorado.

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JOHANNESBURG, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Cyril Ramaphosa, leader of South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC), took oath as the nation's president for the next five years on Wednesday at a ceremony in Pretoria, the administrative capital.

Ramaphosa, 71, was re-elected as South African president by the National Assembly on June 14 with 283 votes against the other nominee, Julius Malema from the Economic Freedom Fighters, who received 44 votes.

Under the South African Constitution, once elected as president by the National Assembly, the president-elect must assume office within five days.

In the general elections on May 29, the ANC secured 159 out of the 400 seats in the National Assembly, for the first time falling below the 50 percent needed to maintain its 30-year-old outright majority in the lower house of parliament. 
GEORGIA (WJBF)  Governor Kemp announces grant awards totaling up to $6 million to 13 Georgia rural hospitals, which include Emanuel Medical Center in Swainsboro and Washington County Regional Medical Center in Sandersville.

According to officials, these series of grants is a part of the Dual Track Rural Support program which is administered through the Department of Community Healths State Office of Rural Health.

ALSO ON WJBF: Augusta parks audit is rejected by commissioners

Officials state that the graduate medical education funds are used to support existing or new GME programs that provide additional training for physicians who have completed medical school and are interested in learning more about a particular specialty of medicine while the direct hospital support funds can be used to increase access to healthcare, ensure adequate staffing, and make financial and operational improvements.

Since I took office, my administration has worked to deliver on the promise that we would work with state and local partners to develop Georgias rural communities, including efforts to improve our rural healthcare systems, says Governor Kemp in an official statement. These awards will provide further support to those hospitals that serve rural Georgians and communities in need.

Emanuel Medical Center and Washington County Regional Medical Center will be receiving $500,000 each for Hospital Support Funding.

According to officials, the Dual Track Rural Hospital Support Grant is funded through the states Rural Hospital Stabilization Grant, which was established in 2014 and has awarded more than $40 million in grant funding for Georgia rural hospitals since its inception.

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 WJBF.
NEWARK, N.J. (PIX11)  Second chances dont always come, but Governor Phil Murphy wants to help give a second chance to some, as he announces a new clemency initiative.

Today I am honored to announce that our State is reaching a major milestone in our own journey not only for racial justice, but justice for every New Jerseyan, said Murphy.

More Local News

On Juneteenth, Murphy signed an order to spur the initiative, which begins by the forming of an advisory board  made up of six people who will volunteer their time. They will review applications taken online, broken up into categories, and send to the governors office recommendations for pardon or commutation of a sentence.

Among the many clemency advocates Wednesday at Newarks St. James A.M.E Church was hip-hop artist Robert Meek Mill Williams, who is the co-founder and co-chair of REFORM Alliance, an organization for criminal justice reform that helped advocate for Wednesdays clemency executive order.

Clemency, second chances, giving people a fair shot, said Meek Mill. I grew up on that side of life and I never thought or imagined Id be in rooms like this. You guys give me the courage and the energy to use my platform to keep pushing forward better our communities.

As the independent board and the Governors Office review the cases, they say theyll go one person at a time. Its the process the Governor hopes will be transformative.

More New Jersey News

It has an enormously disproportionate impact on Black and brown individuals and their families and communities, said Murphy, and has a significant impact we believe on women who are victims of domestic violence, who are suffering under penalties and sentences that were given decades ago in some cases.

Former Governor Jim McGreevey serves as the chair of NJ Reentry Corporation, a non-profit that provides services to people returning from incarceration.

Part of justice is mercy, said McGreevey, and I think what the governor is saying is its not only what happens in the confines of a courtroom, which is critically important to determine guilt or innocence, but the length, the determination, the appropriateness of pardon and clemency, that history of domestic violence, that history of abuse, ought to be taken into account.

Governor Murphy says the board should be looking at its first batch of applications in about 6 months.

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 chief executive officer of one of the leading privatized military housing companies has taken a leave of absence after being indicted by a New Jersey grand jury on racketeering charges that are unrelated to military properties.

The Michaels Organization announced June 18 that CEO John ODonnell has temporarily left the role to focus on vigorously defending himself against allegations in Mondays indictment. Military Times was unable to reach ODonnell for further comment.

The Michaels Organization has been one of the Defense Departments privatized housing partners since 2004 and currently owns and manages more than 18,000 homes at 11 installations across the country. Military housing is just one part of its residential real estate business, which serves more than 200,000 residents in more than 600 communities across 39 states, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands.

ODonnell, 61, of Newtown, Pennsylvania, is one of six co-defendants named in the indictment who are charged with first-degree racketeering. The indictment alleges that through a criminal enterprise run by George Norcross III and his associates, the defendants committed unlawful acts to obtain property and property rights on New Jerseys Camden waterfront, collected millions of dollars in government-issued tax credits, and controlled and influenced government officials to further the interests of the enterprise as early as 2012.

The indictment describes George Norcross as a member of the Democratic National Committee, the former chair of the Camden County Democratic Committee, chair of the board of trustees of Cooper University Health Care, and executive chair of the insurance firm Conner Strong & Buckelew.

Dana Redd, who served as Camdens mayor from 2010 to 2018, is also named as a defendant.

On full display in this indictment is how a group of unelected, private businessmen used their power and influence to get government to aid their criminal enterprise and further its interests, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin said upon announcing the charges. The alleged conduct of the Norcross enterprise has caused great harm to individuals, businesses, non-profits, the people of the State of New Jersey, and especially the City of Camden and its residents.

The indictment doesnt name The Michaels Organization as being charged. The properties at the center of the allegations are two buildings along the Camden waterfront  an office tower and a market-rate apartment community. ODonnell is also a partner in the groups that own those Camden buildings. Michaels constructed the residential building, according to the indictment.

As of 2023, The Michaels Organization had received $12.6 million in New Jersey tax incentives, which it sold for $11.6 million. From 2013 to 2023, ODonnell received about $11.3 million in wages from The Michaels Organization, where he has held a series of leadership positions, according to the indictment.

Its unclear whether the allegations could affect the company as a whole.

First-degree racketeering charges carry a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $200,000 in New Jersey. According to the indictment, the state intends to seek additional financial penalties, including the forfeiture of proceeds from criminal activity.

The 111-page, 13-count indictment was the result of a long criminal investigation led by the New Jersey attorney generals office, with support from the FBIs Newark and Philadelphia field offices, the New Jersey state police, and others.

Arraignment for the defendants is scheduled for July 9.

Mark Morgan, who has been with Michaels for more than 35 years, most recently as chief operating officer, has assumed the role of CEO, the company said. All business operations at Michaels continue as usual, officials said in a press release.

John ODonnell has been a trusted colleague and industry leader for more than 30 years, and has our organizations full support during this difficult time, Morgan said in the release.
Grandmother of Juneteenth handed keys to new Texas home 85 years after racist mob burned it down

A white mob burned down Opal Lees family home in Fort Worth, Texas in 1939. She was 12 years old.

Eighty-five years later, Lee, now 97, got the keys to a new home - at the exact same site.

The civil rights activist has spearheaded a national campaign for federal recognition of Juneteenth for decades, culminating with a symbolic 1,400-mile march from Fort Worth to Washington, DC, in 2016.

Juneteenth, the oldest annual commemoration of the end of slavery in America, was finally formally designated a national holiday in 2021, and Lee received the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this year, recognizing her leadership as the grandmother of Juneteenth.

Im wanting young people to realize that we can make a difference. And so Im asking them to make themselves a committee of one to change somebodys mind, Lee told ABC News of her legacy of civil rights activism.

We know people who arent on the same page will change their minds, she added. Youll have to work at it. But if people have been taught to hate, they can be taught to love.

Civil rights activist and grandmother of Juneteenth Opal Lee moves into her new home in Texas on the same lot where a racist mob burned it down 85 years ago. (AP)

June 19 also marks the anniversary of the attack that drove Lee and her family out of their home in 1939.

Shortly after Lees family moved into the predominantly white neighborhood, a mob of 500 people surrounded Lees family home, broke windows, dragged out furniture and then torched the property. Lee was sent to stay at a neighbors house, and her family buried the painful memory of the attack, according to Lee.

My God-fearing, praying parents worked extremely hard and they bought another home, she told the Associated Press. It didnt stop them. They didnt get angry and get frustrated, they simply knew that we had to have a place to stay and they got busy finding one for us.

Community groups and nonprofit housing organization Habitat for Humanity, which owned the land where her familys home once stood, helped build and furnish a new house on the property within three months, in time for 2024s Juneteenth holiday.

People gather outside Opal Lees new home in Fort Worth, Texas on June 14. (AP)

Juneteenth was first recognized by formerly enslaved African Americans in Texas in 1866, one year after 2,000 Union Army soldiers landed in Galveston with belated news of slaverys end.

Their announcement came more than two years after Abraham Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation address, which signaled the end of slavery during the bloody Civil War. But the order did not end the enslavement of all people in the nation at the time.

The 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which formally abolished slavery in the US, wasnt passed by Congress until January 31, 1865. Meanwhile, slave owners in Texas suppressed the news of freedom to the people they enslaved, withholding them in bondage.

Juneteenth celebrations grew across the US with memorials, parades, concerts, family gatherings and other events among Black communities, while Lee and other civil rights activists and lawmakers pushed federal and state governments to formally recognize the holiday.

The campaign continued to grow in the wake of international protests against police violence and systemic racism after the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

President Joe Biden signed a measure into law that creates Juneteenth as the nations 11th annual public holiday after a unanimous vote in the Senate and overwhelming bipartisan support in the House of Representatives.

On Juneteenth, may we celebrate the essence of freedom that galvanized the country, the progress we have made in our Nation, and all that is possible when we march forward together, the president wrote in a proclamation observing this years holiday. May we all recommit to redeeming the very soul of America  choosing love over hate, unity over division, and progress over retreat.
'Grandmother of Juneteenth' Opal Lee Gifted New House, Built Where Her Family Home Was Burned Down 85 Years Ago

A racist mob burned down Opal Lee's family home in 1939; recently, Habitat for Humanity helped build the activist a new home on the same site

Dia Dipasupil/Getty Opal Lee in 2021

This year, Juneteenth is even more meaningful for Opal Lee, affectionately known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth."

The 97-year-old received the keys to her new house this week, built where her family's Fort Worth, Texas, home was burned down by a racist mob 85 years ago.

Courtesy of various local Texas organizations including Trinity Habitat for Humanity and Texas Capital, Lee was given the property for $10. The house was built by HistoryMaker Homes and furnished by retailer JCPenney, according to CBS News.

Speaking about the home and the historic meaning behind it, Trinity Habitat for Humanity CEO Gage Yager, a friend of Lee's, said, "With tears of sadness for past atrocities and tears of joy for this momentous occasion, we are humbled and honored to welcome our friend Opal home. There truly is no place like home," per CBS News.

Elizabeth Frantz for The Washington Post via Getty Opal Lee in 2023

Related: What to Know About Opal Lee, the 'Grandmother of Juneteenth' Who Helped Make Holiday a Reality

Lee tried for years to buy the land and rebuild her family home before discovering it had been purchased by Trinity Habitat for Humanity, according to the Associated Press. Until Lee called him, Yager wasn't aware of the history.

On June 19, 1939, White rioters set fire to the Lee's family home.

"People gathered. The papers say that it was 500 strong, and that the police couldn't control them," she previously told Variety. "My dad came home with a gun, and the police told him if he busted a cap, they'd let that mob have him."

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"If they had given us an opportunity to stay there and be their neighbors, they would have found out we didn't want any more than what they had  a decent place to stay, jobs that paid, [to be] able to go to school in the neighborhood, even if it was a segregated school," she continued. "We would have made good neighbors, but they didn't give us an opportunity. And I felt like everybody needs an opportunity."

As she received her keys this week  and promised open houses  Lee said, per the AP, "Everybody will know that this is going to be a happy place."

In 2016, Lee traveled 1,400 miles from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C., to push for Juneteenth to be recognized as a federal holiday before the Obama administration and Congress, according to Variety.

Juan Figueroa/The Dallas Morning News/Tribune News Service via Getty Opal Lee in 2024

Related: Joe Biden Commemorates New Federal Holiday Juneteenth: 'A Day of Profound Weight and Power'

Five years later, on June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden formally signed it into law.

"I have to say to you, I have only been president for several months, but I think this will go down, for me, as one of the greatest honors I will have as president  not because I did it, you did it, Democrats and Republicans," Biden said at the time. "It's an enormous, enormous honor."

Following the official passing of Juneteenth as a national holiday in 2021, Lee told CBS affiliate KTVT, "I am so delighted to know that suddenly we've got a Juneteenth. It's not a Texas thing or a Black thing. It's an American thing."

A retired educator, Lee makes a symbolic two-and-a-half mile walk each year on Juneteenth, a distance that honors the two-and-a-half years it took for news of freedom to reach all enslaved people in the United States.

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Former Gulfport fire chief Mike Beyerstedt is being remembered as a professional, a nice guy and a gentle giant.

He died suddenly Tuesday while on vacation with his family in Florida.

He was a great guy. It was just a shock, said Lindsey Inman, CEO of Island View Casino, which owns Windance Country Club.

I can see him walking in my door right now, he said, on a sad day at Island View. Three years ago Beyerstedt traded his stressful job as the citys fire chief to become the general manager of Windance.

While its a comparatively laid-back job, He took it very seriously, Inman said. He continually overwhelmed me with his attitude, Inman said, and the smile on his face.

Its not everyone who can straddle professionalism with kindness and family values.

This man was the kindest man I can remember ever meeting, said Kathy Santiago, director of player relations and business development at Island View.

She called him a soft spoken, gentle giant and said, It takes a special person to be strong and be kind like that.

Santiago said she got to know Mike and his wife Kelly while attending golf events.

When Mike and Kelly were together you could see the adoration he had for his wife and the love they had for one another, she said.

Former Gulfport Fire Department Chief Mike Beyerstedt speaks during a press conference in 2018, to announce that the Mississippi State Rating Bureau has upgraded Gulfports Public Fire Protection Rating to the first Class 2 rating ever issued by the state. Beyerstedt passed away this week.

Work hard and do the right thing

Originally from Indiana, he was a sergeant in the Marine Corps and listed Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government, among his many accomplishments. He was fire chief in Jackson, Michigan for a year before heading to the Coast to serve as Gulfport Fire Chief from 2011 to 2023.

On his Twitter/X account bio he quoted: Work hard, do the right things, and good things will happen!

Mike was always upbeat, said former Gulfport police chief Leonard Papania. He came to Gulfport as we were still rebuilding from Katrina and recovering from the financial crisis. It was a challenging time to join the team, he said.

Mayor Billy Hewes called him a dedicated servant and friend and said Beyerstedt leaves a wonderful legacy of exemplary service, having made a profound difference in the lives of our citizens.

Under his leadership, Gulfport Fire Department in 2018 was the first in the state to receive a Class 2 rating since the Mississippi State Rating Bureau was formed in 1924. That meant property owners in the city could see an additional 2% in their insurance because of the rating and it put the fire department in the top 2% nationwide.

This is a big deal. A really big deal, State Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney said at the time during a press conference on the steps of Gulfport City Hall.

He brought us optimism, professionalism and friendship. He has left a mark on our city and will be remembered as a great person, Papania said.

Gulfport Fire Department Chief Mike Beyerstedt smiles during a press conference on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, to announce that the Mississippi State Rating Bureau has upgraded Gulfports Public Fire Protection Rating. The city now has a Class 2 rating, the first Class 2 rating ever issued by the state.

Retiring words

Beyerstedt retired in September 2021, after the challenges of COVID and the many rescues and tragedies he saw as chief.

It has been great working with the unbelievable people at the Gulfport Fire Department now for almost 11 years, he posted on Facebook and said he was looking forward to new opportunities and challenges with Columbia Southern University and the Island View/Windance Country Club team.

Former Gulfport Fire Chief Michael Beyerstedt tears up as he accepts congratulations from Gulfport City Council on his retirement on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021.

He stayed in the firefighting field as an educator in fire service management and administration at Columbia Southern University

He also served as president of the Mississippi Fire Chiefs Association, a member of the Mississippi State Fire Academy Advisory Board, and a member of the State Minimum Standards Board. He joined the local advisory board for The Salvation Army and rang the bell last Christmas.

What he valued in life was evident in 2021, when former Gulfport fire chief James White died. James was a great guy and a wonderful leader. More importantly than that he was just a tremendous person, Beyerstedt said. He was humble in my dealings with him. Just a gentleman. Thats something I would like to keep with me and remember James by. Just what a good person he was.

Now those who knew Beyerstedt are remembering him for these same qualities as a professional and a good person.

The winning shot

He managed the golf course as his retirement job, and he and his wife just built a new home on the course, said Michael Bruffey, vice president and general Counsel at Island View Casino. He was very happy, Bruffey said.

Mike Beyerstedt, left, made the winning shot to clinch Island View Casino and Windance Country Club a win at the first MS Casino Cup in Tunica in October. Members of his team, from left, are Gavin Bauer, Garrett Garcia and Mike Bruffey, all Island View employees.

He helped the casino win the inaugural MS Casino Cup in Tunica last fall, competing against the other casinos in the state and the Mississippi Gaming Commission.

Mike made the putt on the last hole to secure the win, edging out the commission by one shot. Mike was also an amazing golfer on top of everything else, Bruffey said.
From guns to dams. 5 major takeaways from the WA attorney general forum in Tri-Cities

The three candidates running to be Washingtons next attorney general answered 23 questions at a Tuesday candidate forum in the Tri-Cities, covering their stances on public safety, consumer protections and the Trump Administration.

After more than a decade serving as the states AG, Democrat Bob Ferguson is stepping aside this year to run for governor. That means Washington voters will pick the states new chief law enforcement officer, who will take office in 2025.

The candidates are former U.S. Attorney Nick Brown and senior King County Deputy Prosecutor Manka Dhingra, both Democrats, as well as constitutional litigator and Pasco Mayor Pete Serrano, a Republican.

The AGs office pursues legal cases in the publics interest, proposes bills to the state Legislature, represents state departments in litigation, advises state bodies and the governor on legal issues, and provides written opinions on Washington constitutional or legal opinions.

Only two candidates will advance past the Aug. 6 primary election to appear on the Nov. 5 general election ballot. Those will be whichever two earn the most votes during the primary.

Trump presidency

Dhingra and Brown wasted no time discussing the possibility of a second Trump presidency when asked about their top priorities if elected.

Brown listed public safety issues, public advocacy and defending democracy as his priorities.

We have to have an attorney general whose ready to defend the liberties here, Brown said. That includes our voting rights, abortion access and protecting our environment.

Brown later touched on the travel bans Trump implemented early on in his presidency against seven majority Muslim countries. Ferguson led the state challenges to those bans, and headed a team of Washington attorneys early on to upend them. Brown provided assistance as Gov. Jay Inslees general counsel.

We not only changed the arc of justice for the people here, but all across this country. And that is the attitude we have to bring and the challenges we might have under a second Trump Administration, he said.

It will depend on what happens in November, Dhingra said of her priorities.

If Trump loses, she says she would focus on consumer protection, protecting the environment and health care access issues. But if he wins?

If there is a Trump Administration, then we have to do everything we can to protect Washingtonians. Making sure were protecting reproductive rights, LGBTQI rights, that we are focused on consumer protection, that we are focused on data privacy  those are all the laws I have worked on as a state senator.

Dhingra currently serves as deputy majority leader in the state Senate, first elected to office by voters of the 45th Legislative District in 2017.

Originally from India, Dhingra said she would be the only immigrant attorney general in the country.

We have to make sure that we are protecting all Washingtonians. When Trump talks about rounding up immigrants and deporting them, hes talking about people who look like me  people who look like they dont belong. And hes going to, what, stop and detain us? That is unacceptable and it is never going to happen in the state of Washington, she said.

Pressuring state executives

Serrano says hell step back on sponsoring bills in the Legislature but would pressure state executives who fail their duties.

Serranos comments came when he was asked how he would protect people with disabilities. He said state schools Superintendent Chris Reykdal was failing our children in education.

To get an IEP, an Individual Educational Plan, is nearly impossible. To have it enforced is nearly impossible. To get the right tools for your child  or someones theoretical child  nearly impossible. The AG can do a lot by pushing down on those executives who fail their duties, he said.

Serrano also stands out from Dhingra and Brown on the question of the AGs relationship with the Legislature. If elected, he says hell take a back seat.

Theres an opportunity to advise. Ive seen Attorney General Fergusons office author a lot of bills, that say at the request of the AGs office. My present intention is not to do that  let the Legislature legislate, let the attorney general advise and assist with making sure those actions by the Legislature are constitutional and protective of the people, he said.

Gun reform

Brown says the state needs to continue its track record of establishing gun safety solutions, and says the AGs office should be hyper focused on these issues.

He has represented the Alliance for Gun Responsibility in court and defended the implementation of Initiative 1639, a 2018 slate that made changes to Washingtons firearm laws.

Dhingra leaned on her legislative experience to get laws around bump stock bans, safe storage, background checks and training for gun purchasers passed.

We have to make sure that individuals who have been found to be a danger to themselves or others actually surrender their firearms, Dhingra said referring to the states laws on extreme risk protection.

Serrano says the issue pits the rights of the people against the protection of the people, and the AGs office should take a harder stance on prosecuting people who break laws.

Whether youre in Pasco, whether youre in Renton, whether youre in Yakima  if youre someone who needs the ability to protect yourself, you have got to have that ability. And we need to make sure, as the attorney general, that criminals are prosecuted to keep our streets safe, he said.

Founder and general counsel of Silent Majority Foundation, Serrano has been at the forefront of challenges to Washingtons most stringent gun laws, including attempts to overturn restrictions on ghost guns and a ban on high-capacity magazines.

Snake River dam removal

AG candidates were also asked to weigh in with their thoughts about removing the lower four Snake River dams to restore salmon populations.

Brown said the AG will play a big role in supporting the states work as federal negotiations continue about the dams removal.

Right now, Washington state is struggling to get by and have power sources that power the people we have right here. But this is a state that is growing, this is a state that is going to add millions of people in the next 10 and 20 years. And we need to make sure that we continue to advocate for clean, alternative sources of energy, Brown said.

Dhingra said this is a case of competing interests: We need to protect wildlife, but the state also needs clean energy. But its all about bringing stakeholders to the table to find sustainable solutions.

That is what I have been doing most of my life: When I started talking about domestic violence in the South Asian community when no one wanted to talk about it, when I started talking about crisis intervention with law enforcement when that was such a new concept, when I was talking about therapeutic courts, when I started an HR office in the Senate, she said.

Serrano said the dams mean much more than clean power, and remain a crucial aspect of the regions economy and agriculture. Hes met with local mayors and parts of Washingtons congressional delegation on support to retain the dams.

That said, if (federal) legislation is passed and it somehow violates our rights, I will stand for you continually in court to make sure that that lifeline is not destroyed, he said.

Criminal justice reform

Dhingra says Washington desperately needs a state leader who will address gender-based violence, and it needs to be a priority for the next AG.

We continue to see domestic violence, sexual assault and trafficking cases go forgotten. We are one of the worst states for trafficking and yet we dont talk about it enough, Dhingra said.

She touted her work reforming Washingtons trafficking laws and her role in establishing and serving on the Washington Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People task force.

Serrano said the state shouldnt be focused on decriminalizing drug possession and consumption, but rather focus on holding distributors accountable, including the individuals who over-prescribe or wrongly prescribe.

Brown says its important to prosecute crimes, but it should also be a priority to address the root causes of crime  education inequities, a lack of housing and mental health resources, and public health and drug counseling systems.

We need to do both. We need to hold people accountable, but we also need to address those core, root causes that will make the safety sustainable for generations to come, he said.

Election outlook

What little political polling that has been conducted in this years AG race suggests voters are overwhelmingly unsure of who theyll back for this important state executive position.

One poll conducted recently by the Northwest Progressive Institute of 615 likely general election voters found Serrano with 36%, Dhingra with 10% and Brown with 9%. In all, 45% of voters said they were not sure who they would be supporting.

That likely means a tight race for Brown and Dhingra as they spar over independent voters and undecided Democrats, and an easy primary season for Serrano.

Tuesdays forum was hosted by the League of Women Voters of Washington and Northwest Public Broadcasting, and can be watched online at TVW.org.
Action News Jax is learning new details about the five men who were arrested during Operation Decelerate, a Jacksonville Sheriffs Office and Florida Highway Patrol deployment to crack down on street racing and dangerous driving.

The operation took place Saturday when JSO responded to calls about a planned event on private property on the Westside. Dozens of stunt riders from as far as Georgia and North Carolina descended on Jacksonville. Dispatchers then received 911 calls with reports of a severe injury.

During the event, a man was hit by a car and pinned against a concrete barrier. JSO said, Despite the mans severe injury and a police response, dozens of racers and spectators filled the streets of Jacksonville, blatantly ignoring traffic laws and endangering the community.

Here are the people who were arrested while officers were apprehending participants in the event and the charges theyre facing:

Sergio Rodriguez-Campos, 23

Fail to obey police officer

Possess over 20 grams of marijuana

Possession of a controlled substance

Use or possession with intent to use

Driving with a suspended or revoked license

Racing on highway - Spectator

Improperly displayed tag

Proof of insurance required

RELATED: 5 arrested, more than 70 cited, several vehicles impounded during Operation Decelerate in Jacksonville

Police said Rodriguez-Campos had his drivers license revoked on June 20, 2023. According to his arrest report, an officer positioned on Imeson Park Boulevard tracked a black BMW driving south through the woods. The officer turned on emergency lights in an attempt to stop the BMW, but it kept going. Eventually, the vehicle stopped -- the officer later found out it was because there was heavy damage to the undercarriage and was leaking oil. Rodriguez-Campos tried to restart the car to get away, but was unable to and was taken into custody without incident, the report said.

Jaquaine Thomas, 23

Armed: possession of a controlled substance

Race on highway, parking lot or roadway

Racing on highway - Spectator

Undercover detectives said a newer black Mustang was doing donuts and drifting the vehicle in the 700 block of Whittaker Road. Thomas was identified as the driver of that car and was taken into custody. Thomas A black 9mm handgun and a marijuana joint was seized from Thomas, according

Keelan Pelham-Knight, 20

Possess not more than 20 grams of marijuana

An officer found Pelham-Knight parked in the 700 block of Whittaker Road and leaning against his vehicle. According to the arrest report, the officer could smell the odor of burnt marijuana emitting from the vehicle and observed a green firearm which was partially concealed under the drivers seat. The officer asked Pelham-Knight if he had a medical marijuana license and Pelham-Knight said he did not.

Josser Flores Avila, 18

Race on highway, parking lot or roadway

No valid drivers license

Racing on highway - Spectator

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Near Moncrief Road West and Restlawn Drive, a blue Nissan, later discovered to be driven by Flores Avila, was observed by detectives doing at least two full doughnuts in the middle of the intersection while there were at least 20 more vehicles in the roadway/vicinity, the arrest report said. During this, he nearly crashed into an undercover detectives vehicle, the report said. The group Flores Avila was part of then went to the warehouse, near Whittaker Road off Busch Drive North. Police arrived, blocked off the road and took Flores Avila into custody.

Julio Rodriguez, 27

Racing on highway - Purposely stop or slow traffic

No valid drivers license

Reckless driving

Headlights - Vehicle without lights at night

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An undercover detective saw a dark gray Infiniti sedan with white stickers on the front and rear of the vehicle perform three to four doughnuts near Prichard and Jones roads. The driver of the vehicle was later found to be Rodriguez. The Infiniti, which had Virginia tags, started driving down Prichard Road at a high rate of speed, the report said, and turn its lights off while approaching the intersection of Prichard and Imeson roads. The vehicle went to get on Interstate 295 southbound and police stopped the car. Officers found that Rodriguez has a suspended license in Virginia and was previously arrested in Duval County for racing on the highway on Jan. 6, 2023. He is also on felony probation for burglary until Feb. 7, 2028.

PHOTOS: 5 arrested during Operation Decelerate crackdown on street racing in Jacksonville

Action News Jax is learning new details about the five men who were arrested during Operation Decelerate, a Jacksonville Sheriffs Office and Florida Highway Patrol deployment to crack down on street racing and dangerous driving.

Julio Rodriguez, 27: Arrested on the following charges: Racing on highway - Purposely stop or slow traffic; No valid drivers license; Reckless driving; Headlights - Vehicle without lights at night

Jaquaine Thomas, 23: Arrested on the following charges -- Armed: possession of a controlled substance; Race on highway, parking lot or roadway; Racing on highway - Spectator

Action News Jax is learning new details about the five men who were arrested during Operation Decelerate, a Jacksonville Sheriffs Office and Florida Highway Patrol deployment to crack down on street racing and dangerous driving.

Sergio Rodriguez-Campos, 23: Arrested on the following charges: Fail to obey police officer; Possess over 20 grams of marijuana; Possession of a controlled substance; Use or possession with intent to use; Driving with a suspended or revoked license; Racing on highway - Spectator; Improperly displayed tag; Proof of insurance required

Josser Flores Avila, 18: Arrested on the following charges: Race on highway, parking lot or roadway; No valid drivers license; Racing on highway - Spectator

Keelan Pelham-Knight, 20: Arrested on the following charge: Possess not more than 20 grams of marijuana

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office found a gun in a car during

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***The video above is from a previous report***

GURNEE, Ill.  A Gurnee man who spent nearly 30 years in prison after being found guilty of killing his ex-wife was awarded a Certificate of Innocence on Tuesday, the latest milestone in the fight to clear his name following his overturned conviction and subsequent September 2022 release.

A Lake County judge granted Herman Williams petition for a COI nearly two years after his release from downstate Sheridan Correctional Center.

Williams, a military veteran, spent 29 years behind bars in connection with the death of his Penny Williams, whose body was found in a Waukegan pond on Sept. 26, 1993.

Prosecutors at the time argued Williams killed his ex-wife so he could take his children to California, where he was being restationed following his tenure at Great Lakes Naval Base.

RELATED: Wrongful conviction lawsuit filed on behalf of Gurnee man freed after nearly 29 years

Attorneys with Romanucci & Blandin, LLC, and Hart McLaughlin & Eldridge, LLC applauded the Lake County judges ruling but lamented Williams time behind bars:

Herman Williams lost nearly three decades of his life behind bars because of fabricated evidence and coerced statements and he will never get that time back. One of his primary desires during all those years was to officially clear his name, which is what the Certificate of Innocence today accomplishes. All wrongful convictions are tragic and the harm to the victims is immeasurable. As Herman explains, serving time is hard for anyone, but serving time as an innocent man is utter torture. The cost of the wrongful conviction to this decorated member of the U.S. Navy has been staggering, we are pleased he has received his Certificate of Innocence, and we are committed to fighting for justice to him in the civil courts. Joint statement provided by Romanucci & Blandin, LLC, and Hart McLaughlin & Eldridge, LLC

PREVIOUS: Gurnee man freed after 1994 murder conviction tossed

A judge freed Williams following work with the Illinois Innocence Project. Lawyers stated the overturned case was due to forensic re-examination, new DNA testing, and a demonstration of serial misconduct by law enforcement officials involved.

Herman Williams just after his release, arriving with his attorneys, Vanessa Potkin, director of special litigation for the Innocence Project, left, and Lauren Kaeseberg, co-director of the Illinois Innocence Project. (Image: Illinois Innocence Project)

From left, Sonny Williams, father of Herman Williams; Lauren Kaeseberg, co-director of the Illinois Innocence Project; Herman Williams; Vanessa Potkin, director of special litigation for the Innocence Project; and Carolyn Lagendorf, Herman Williams sister. Both his father and sister traveled from Arizona to be there for Hermans release. (Image: Illinois Innocence Project)

Herman Williams realizing the reality of freedom by standing in a cornfield, reaching out to touch one of the plants, outside of Sheridan, Ill., where he was being held. (Image: Illinois Innocence Project)

Carolyn Lagendorf, Herman Williams sister from Arizona, giving him a hearty hug. (Image: Illinois Innocence Project)

Herman Williams with Illinois Innocence Project client Angel Gonzalez. Both men were convicted in Lake County and then later exonerated with DNA evidence as a key part of their cases. Angel was freed in March 2015 after serving nearly 21 years for a crime he did not commit. (Image: Illinois Innocence Project)

Herman Williams with the attorneys who represented him, Vanessa Potkin, director of special litigation for the Innocence Project, left, and Lauren Kaeseberg, co-director of the Illinois Innocence Project. (Image: Illinois Innocence Project)

Lawyers on behalf of Williams filed a wrongful conviction lawsuit in August 2023.

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MAPUTO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A total of five students from the information and communications technology (ICT) courses under the "Seeds for the Future" program, promoted by Huawei Mozambique, will travel to China in September for advanced training.

The students, who were highlighted during a media briefing in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, Tuesday night, were selected from 70 participants who completed the training both face-to-face and online. They will join 95 students from other African countries in the training in China to enhance their technical skills.

At the event, Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications Amilton Alissone said the government expects these students to continue to develop technological solutions for the country's progress and apply recent projects for the benefit of their communities.

"We encourage the participants in this program to continue presenting technological solutions that promote innovation, transfer ICT knowledge, and create the conditions for Mozambique to enter the 4th Industrial Revolution on an equal footing with other countries," Alissone said.

Alissone also encouraged the private sector to continue investing in the Mozambican ICT sector, underlining the government's commitment to maintaining an attractive and competitive environment for the sector's development.

"We appreciate the adoption of inclusion criteria, allowing the participation of young people from all regions of the country, with an emphasis on 10 applications from women. We need to keep working to attract more women to the ICT area," he added.

The "Seeds for the Future" program attracted 200 applications from 20 higher education institutions in Mozambique, up from 18 the previous year. A total of 70 students were selected, compared to 61 last year and 40 in 2022, demonstrating their increasing interest in the ICT field. 
A Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 and a Rolls-Royce Cullinan in Florida were intercepted by a hacker posing as the owner while they were on their way to be delivered. Christoph Schmidt/dpa

San Jose, California (dpa) \- Thieves are always thinking up new ways to steal cars and now a crafty hacker in the US state of Florida has made off with two luxury SUVs by getting them delivered to himself, instead of to their owners, local media report.

The thief reportedly grabbed a Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 and a Rolls-Royce Cullinan worth a total of $500,000. The vehicles had been legitimately purchased and were to be delivered to the new owners when they were intercepted.

In the case of the Maybach, the thief hacked into the drivers website of Dealers Choice Auto Transport Service of West Palm Beach, radio station WSVN 7 News Miami quoted company employee Steven Yariv as saying.

The hacker was able to see all the relevant information regarding the vehicles, including delivery instructions. Using the data, the thief got in touch with the delivery driver, acted like he was the intended recipient of the vehicle and gave the driver fresh instructions. The Maybach was dropped off to just where he wanted it.

The Cullinan was spirited away in a similar fashion. The car was due to be delivered to Limited Spec Automotive in Miami but the company said the driver reportedly received a text message from what appeared to be the legitimate owner asking for the car to be taken to what an employee later described as a "random parking lot in Miami."

After the delivery driver realized something was wrong, he received a text from the thief about the heist. He answered back with "you stole from the wrong guy" and the thief replied "Thats what the guy with the Cullinan said as well," followed by another text reading "Thanks for the free Maybach dawg."

The thief later added "Bro, car already in Dubai, or Europe you guess," followed by an image of the torn-up floorboard where a GPS tracker is normally hidden.

Miami Police are investigating the thefts, and each car is said to have has a $20,000 reward for its return. Experts said the chances of finding the vehicles are slim and the cars have probably been illegally exported already.
A tense documentary that winds its way through online right-wing politics, Simon Kloses Hacking Hate is a detailed (if occasionally disconnected) expose of contemporary extremism. It follows Swedish journalist My Vingren as she embeds herself within white supremacist digital spaces. By chronicling her investigations, as well as her interviews with several experts on content moderation, the film introduces numerous parallel threads spanning the entire globe, from the U.S. to Scandinavia and beyond, though it doesnt always manage to weave them together.

Vingren is a committed and knowledgeable subject, referred to by some as the real-life Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Her proclivity for tracing online footprints comes in handy during Hacking Hate, when she not only creates numerous fake profiles to court invites from white nationalist groups, but finds a trail of digital breadcrumbs where most would not think to look. In the process, she gradually uncovers the identity of a figurehead running a racist Norwegian chatroom hellbent on couching Islamophobia and antisemitism within the language of national pride.

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Accompanied by Kate Havneviks propulsive, nerve-racking score, Klose captures this layer-by-layer unfurling with a keen eye, down to using real-life security camera footage that veers between chilling and absurd. The films aesthetic approach injects its story with a sense of paranoia, between a heightened, saturated color palette that nudges human faces into the realm of the unreal  as if to match Vingrens deep-fake profiles, it always feels ever-so-slightly uncanny  and the recurring use of drone shots and voyeuristic long lenses. Each carefully staged scene is infused with the feeling of impromptu surveillance, as though the movies subjects were in danger.

Behind closed doors, Vingrens investigations are presented in the form of projections on blank walls in darkened rooms, an eerie digital web thats cast from the online world into our real one. In fact, Kloses work is so visually appealing that it becomes illusory, introducing the sense that Vingrens racism cosplay might have some unsettling psychological impact on her. This doesnt seem to be the case as far as her behavior and reactions are concerned, but the question is posed for just long enough, through the movies artistry, that it continues to linger.

Beginning by observing alt right figureheads on YouTube, from Britains boyishly emphatic Paul Joseph Watson to Swedens off-putting bodybuilder/Hitler apologist The Golden One, Hacking Hate creates a digital framework for its real-world pursuit of knowledge. Unfortunately, when it leaves the proximity of online space and enters the real world, it becomes far more straightforward and less viscerally affecting  an unfortunate irony, given how much of its focus concerns the dangers of this spillage. Its sit-down interviews, with experts on platforms like Twitter and YouTube (conducted by Vingren herself), tend to take mundane and familiar form. These secondary subjects are usually presented as talking heads who express their concerns in words, but in ways the movie doesnt complement or enhance through its images.

The theories the movie posits  including and especially that tech companies are profiting off extremism  work best when expressed in practice. These tend to be montages of the nauseating racist hatred that pollutes social media unencumbered, or simply, shots of Vingren slipping further down the white supremacist rabbit hole, as she uncovers the political and financial ties behind seemingly run-of-the-mill racist hate groups.

Vingren herself is a fascinating subject, even when (perhaps, especially when) she doesnt speak, because her process is both intriguing and risky. On the other hand, when the movie pivots to Vingren interviewing other people, it begins to feel distant and removed, transforming into a documentary-by-proxy, about a subject telling stories about other subjects, which is far less enrapturing to watch. Her covert sleuthing is focused, but her Q&As with American interviewees, whose concerns are specific to the U.S. rather than her local sphere, tend to meander. That said, Hacking Hate has more than enough by way of audio-visual flourishes, while centering Vingrens work, that it feels both meaningful and momentous.

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OLIVE TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  Bird flu outbreaks among dairy herds in Ottawa County are not related to infected birds being disposed of at a nearby landfill, the countys top health official said.

Administrative Health Officer Adeline Hambley addressed concerns previously raised by Commissioner Allison Miedema at Tuesdays meeting with the Board of Commissioners Health and Human Services committee.

In April, the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development announced an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian flu had been confirmed at Herbrucks Poultry Ranch in Ionia County. According to Hambley, the culling was so large that Herbrucks couldnt compost all of the remains on site and had to come up with another way to get rid of the infected bodies.

Tick that triggers red meat allergy found in Ottawa County

For depopulation or culling all of these birds, they have pretty prescribed different processes for disposing of those carcasses, Hambley said. In this instance, water table, size, etc., they couldnt compost all of these birds. So they ended up landfilling.

Hambley also explained the process of how they are handled to prevent spreading the virus.

It involves bagging the dead birds at the site. There is USDA monitoring on site for that part of the disposal. Then they get loaded onto trucks and transported to a landfill, she explained. They also monitor them at the landfill. Once they are dumped off, the bagged carcasses, they have to be immediately covered and then the trucks get sanitized at the site before they leave.

The first outbreak in Ottawa County came before the process for landfilling was complete and follow-up testing confirmed the two outbreaks are not related, Hambley said.

Since then, they have done genome sequencing on both the birds that were disposed of and the cows and they are not genetically linked, Hambley said. They are not the same strains.

Herbrucks to lay off 400 employees, citing bird flu outbreak

Commissioner Joe Moss asked Hambley whether there is a way to prevent infected birds from outside the county being disposed of in Ottawa County. Hambley said the state has already decided that future landfilling will not be done there.

(MDARD) is working closely with the Michigan Poultry Association. Their concern, the Poultry Association, is obviously how many turkey farms we have. My understanding is they will not be disposing in Ottawa County landfills because of that, Hambley said.

So far, Ottawa County has three confirmed HPAI outbreaks this year, two in dairy herds and one at a poultry farm.

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HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can spread from infected wild birds to other animals through an item exposed to the virus, like equipment, feed or even the clothes of the caretakers. In rare cases, humans can contract the virus.

The current HPAI outbreak, which sparked in February of 2022, has now affected more than 96 million birds nationwide, making it the worst outbreak of bird flu in American history. While HPAI is almost always fatal in birds, the mortality rate is considered low in cows.

Those who suspect avian flu in their domestic animals are asked to call MDARD immediately at 800.292.3939 during the day or 517.373.0440 after hours.

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BELDING, Mich. (WOOD)  This year, Belding United Methodist Church turns 120 years old.

Construction on the building started in 1904, though the congregation itself is decades older, according to Rev. Melissa Wagner. She has served as the churchs pastor for the past few years.

Ive only been here for two of those 120 years, Wagner said. Ill tell you, when they brought me in here to see this building, my jaw hit the floor.  Its one of the prettiest churches.

Inside Belding United Methodist Church. (Courtesy)

Inside Belding United Methodist Church. (Courtesy)

Inside Belding United Methodist Church. (Courtesy)

The building, located at 301 Pleasant St. near Washington Street, features stained glass windows, paintings, 31-foot ceilings and a dome. Wagner says it was built by a group of dedicated community members, who poured themselves into the church. In just a few years, they were able to pay off the buildings hefty $30,000 price tag, which translates into about $1 million in todays dollars.

Thats how involved these people were. They filled this place, Wagner said. For years, this was a gathering place in the community.

A photo from the building of Belding United Methodist Church in the early 1900s. (Courtesy)

A photo from Belding United Methodist Churchs 10th anniversary in 1914. (Courtesy)

But 2024 will mark the final year of Belding United Methodist Church. It is closing, with its last service set for Aug. 11.

Its heartbreaking, Wagner said.

FELT LIKE WE WERE INVISIBLE

In the 1930s, Rev. George Mooers, then the pastor of Belding United Methodist Church, started a service group known as the Grailers. It was named for the fabled King Arthur and his knights, who pursued the holy Grail.

Many folks that were (for example) Miss Belding and doctors in the area, the movers and the shakers of Belding, were part of the Grailers, Wagner said. It wasnt just a service to the church but a service to the community.

The Grailers were active from the 1930s to the 1970s, according to Wagner. But at some point, something changed in the church.

I dont know when it happened, she said. At some point, there were just no young people here.

By the 1990s, Wagner said, just one little boy was attending the church.

It hasnt been a whole lot better since, she told News 8.

Now, the only child who attends Belding United Methodist Church on a regular basis is Wagners own granddaughter. In total, between eight and 10 people show up at church each week.

I havent seen this place full except for a funeral, Wagner said.

She said the church has tried to reach out to the community, hosting monthly meals and handing out candy on Halloween. But nothing has changed.

For some time, its felt like we were invisible here. Nobody saw us, Wagner said. They come in, but they dont come back.

On top of the low attendance, insurance costs are sky high.

This building has got a 31-foot ceiling with a dome. The insurance here is nuts, Wagner said. And eight people just cant do it anymore. Its heartbreaking.

THIS IS WHAT WE NEED TO DO

Seven or eight years ago, Wagner says, the Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church suggested that Belding United Methodist Church close.

We were on a downhill slide, she explained. The membership was waning.

But the conference didnt force the issue.

The congregation voted and said, No, we dont want to close. Were going to go until we cant go anymore,' Wagner said.

Now, she said, the church is at that point.

The idea of closing came up again when the district superintendent came to visit Belding United Methodist Church. He spoke to them about financial issues, according to Wagner.

It was very tear-filled, very heartbreaking. Our leadership listened, she said. And he didnt make the decision for us. We had to call a meeting for all the membership to come.

The church mailed letters and sent emails, inviting about 30 people in total to the meeting. On the day of the meeting, only four voting members showed up.

Its lack of participation, Wagner said. And they came in and with broken hearts, they voted and said, This is what we need to do. We just cant do it alone anymore.'

She said closing the church wasnt what anybody wanted.

Its like pulling the plug on someone that  you know, theyre struggling to breathe, Wagner said. And its just kinder to let them go home.

PREPARING TO CLOSE

As Aug. 11 draws nearer, leaders are working to find homes for some of the things within the church.

The painting over the altar at Belding United Methodist Church, created by the Rev. George Mooers. (Courtesy)

For example, above the altar hangs an 8-foot painting of Jesus. It was created by Mooers  the same pastor who started the Grailers in the 30s.

He was a busy fella, Wagner said. (The painting) was not titled, but Pastor Mooers said if he gave it any name, it would be Jesus of the working people.'

Hoping to give the painting to one of Mooers descendants, Wagner embarked on a search using Ancestry.com and Google. She ended up finding Mooers granddaughter, who lives in New York.

(The granddaughter) was very happy to hear from me. She said a lot of his stuff hasnt survived, Wagner said. Shes very happy to get this. Im really looking forward to getting it to her.

Several items in the church were donated, according to Wagner  like the baptismal font and a baby grand piano. Church leaders are searching for descendants of the baptismal fonts donor and hoping to give the piano to a music teacher who needs one. Other things, from the organ to the tables and chairs, will need to be sold separately from the building. Wagner says theyre planning a sale after the churchs final service.

LEAVING A GAP

There are many churches  a saturation  in Belding, Wagner said, and the community may not fully realize what Belding United Methodist Church does.

We do it quietly over here, Wagner said.

On top of holding church services, the church also offers community meals, a small food pantry and a thrift store. Wagner says these losses will be felt.

There are hungry, homeless people, she said. There are people that need what we offer. Theyll be the ones to notice.

The church also rents out its parsonage to a family in need, but now the family will have to move.

They are struggling, Wagner said. Theyre older, they dont get around very well. Theyre going to be looking for something on a fixed income that they can afford.

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She hopes whoever buys the building can fill the gap left by the churchs closure.

It is my hope and it is my prayer that (the building) will continue to be used in ministry, Wagner said. Theres a time for everything under the sun, and I guess our time is done.

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Members of the Little Tujunga Hot Shots firefighting crew hike to positions along Hard Luck Road while battling the Post fire north of Pyramid Lake on Sunday. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

Another bout of dangerous, triple-digit heat is headed for much of California's interior this weekend, creating new concerns for firefighters battling wildfires across the state, including two that have surpassed 15,000 acres.

"Friday will kick off a fairly dramatic warm-up as a large and hot upper-high over the middle of the [country] expands westward," the National Weather Service wrote in its Wednesday morning forecast. The upper-level ridge of high pressure  known colloquially as a heat dome  will most directly affect the San Joaquin Valley and Southern California deserts, but almost all of the Golden State can expect elevated temperatures this weekend.

The Los Angeles area will remain on the western edge of the system as it moves across the Southwest before expanding north and west  creating significant "compressional heating" below the ridge of high pressure, said Joe Sirard, a weather service meteorologist in Oxnard. Sirard said "heat dome" isn't a precise meteorological term, but describes the process that pushes temperatures up as air sinks below the upper ridge.

That will help to build the heat," Sirard said. "The hottest weather should be in the deserts, the San Joaquin Valley and inland valleys  away from the coast."

Much of interior California is expected to see moderate or major heat risks Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and in some areas through at least Tuesday. The San Joaquin Valley and Sierra Nevada foothills are expecting "dangerously hot conditions," with an excessive heat watch going into effect Saturday through at least Monday, when temperatures up to 110 degrees are possible.

In the Southland, Saturday is expected to be the warmest day, when highs in Los Angeles County valleys will reach into the 90s while the deserts and low mountains will peak near 105 degrees.

It will be "a few degrees above normal for the most part through Wednesday next week, Sirard said. The coasts, however, will be largely unaffected, as the upper ridge remains farther east, and the system could actually strengthen the marine layer through the weekend.

The soaring temperatures are already on firefighters' radar, as they will come just days after severe winds fueled the flames of the Post fire, which started Saturday near Gorman in northern L.A. County and quickly exploded in size.

Any time the weather heats up,  obviously its going to be a driving force for the spread of the fire," said Jonathan Torres, a Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesperson. "Obviously it makes it a lot harder for the hand crews."

Read more: How is climate change affecting heat waves in California and the West?

As of Wednesday morning, the Post fire was 39% contained and appeared to be holding at 15,690 acres, according to fire officials. After days of treacherous red-flag conditions  gusty winds and low humidity  firefighters were able to make "significant progress" Tuesday night, according to a Wednesday morning update.

"Weather conditions last night were favorable and allowed crews to increase containment lines," the update said, noting that a "significant warming trend" is expected to begin Thursday through the weekend. Winds were expected to reach 20 mph Wednesday, far from insignificant, but dramatically weaker than what crews had faced the last few days.

Due to the treacherous conditions and steep terrain, fire officials continued to shuttle crews by boat across Lake Pyramid to more directly access the flames Wednesday while air crews continued to work from above.

Read more: Heat wave or heat dome? Yes, there's a difference

In northern Colusa County, the Sites fire had grown to 15,565 acres by Wednesday morning, almost catching up in size to the Post fire, which recently became the state's largest wildfire of the year. The Sites fire was only 5% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Fire officials there were hoping to make significant progress Wednesday and Thursday  during a reprieve between severe winds that have mostly subsided and high temperatures on the horizon.

"It's going to get pretty hot this weekend, over 100 degrees probably for about a four- or five-day stretch," Cal Fire's Sonoma-Lake-Napa Unit chief Mark Marcucci told crews at the Sites fire morning briefing. "So what I'm asking you today is continue that good work, and let's see what we can get done so we can minimize the amount of folks we need to have out there over the weekend."

Communities near both the Post and Sites fires remained under evacuation orders, with dozens of buildings still threatened.

Across the state, there were at least two other major wildfires still active: the Point fire in Sonoma County, which was 50% contained Wednesday and had burned 1,207 acres, and the Aero fire in Calaveras County, which grew to 5,425 acres Wednesday and was 33% contained, according to Cal Fire.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The first day of summer is not until Thursday, but heat is already scorching the DMV.

Temperatures could reach into the 90s, so it is important to stay hydrated and drink lots of water. If temperatures reach the 90s, it will officially be a heatwave.

Emergency responders state that extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days.

Beat the heat: How to save at DMV water parks, pools

Extreme heat makes your body work harder to stay cool and can even lead to death. They warn to especially check on older adults and children who are at greater risk.

Remember, never leave people or pets in a closed car. Heat can rise in a car, up to 20 degrees in just 10 minutes.

Emergency responders urge residents to cover windows with drapes or shades and wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing. They warn residents to avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.

Heat wave hits DMV: How to keep your pets safe, spot heat exhaustion

To stay hydrated and stay out of the sun. Direct sun, said park visitor Christophe Rosemont. Being outside is not a bad thing as long as youre in the shade. Much like this dog park, its pretty well saved for the most part. So long as youre not in direct heat, it should be.

When temperatures in the district reach 95 degrees or higher, the district implements the Heat Emergency Plan that activates its cooling centers.

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ANDOVER, Kan. (KSNW)  The Butler County Sheriffs Office is asking for help in locating 30-year-old Ahn-Alika Ayala Wisley.

30-year-old Ahn-Alika Ayala Wisley (Courtesy Butler Co. Sheriffs Office)

Wisley was reported missing to the sheriffs office by her mother on June 5. The last time her mother reported hearing from her was through a text message she received in April.

Her last known whereabouts were police in Smyrna, Georgia, went to her last known address but did not find her.

Wisley moved from Butler County to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 2023, according to the sheriffs office. She later moved to Baltimore, Maryland, and finally to Georgia.

Celebration of life and fundraiser planned for Michael Aikman

She is described as being 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing around 140 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, and sometimes wearing glasses. Wisley also has several tattoos on both upper shoulders, right arm, left wrist, upper chest area, and her back, along with several facial piercings.

If you have had contact with Wisley or know where she may be, you can contact investigators at the Butler County Sheriffs Office at 316-322-4257 or toll-free at 800-794-1090. Tips can also be submitted to Butler County Crime Tips by calling 316-322-8817 or toll-free at 866-484-5924. You can also submit a tip by email at crimetips@bucoks.com or through the Crime Tips webpage.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A Henderson man faces several charges, including aggravated stalking, after police said he made several threats toward school employees and texted underage high school volleyball players over the course of several years, according to an arrest report obtained by 8 News Now.

On June 4, two people went to police to file a report against a man they said was making threats towards them as well as attempting to contact students on the volleyball team of a local school, the report stated.

Thomas Wilkinson, who is either 54 or 55 based on his birth year, was a sponsor for a local schools volleyball team prior to May 2022.

Thomas Wilkinson faces several charges, including aggravated stalking. (LVMPD)

One of the victims told police he trespassed Wilkinson from attending any volleyball or after-school activities because of allegations that Wilkinson was grooming the girls on the team, many of whom were under 16. The allegations said he was having or attempting to have inappropriate contact with the students.

The victim told police that when he trespassed Wilkinson from the school campus, Wilkinson was combative. Shortly after Wilkinson was trespassed, the victim started getting threats from Wilkinson, the report stated.

The victim told police Wilkinson found both his and his wifes personal phone numbers. Wilkinson would contact both of them using multiple different numbers over several years, leaving threatening voicemails and texts, according to the report.

The victim said he decided to file a report because Wilkinson was becoming more bold and sent a message to the victims wife which included a photo of a knife.

Wilkinson proclaimed himself to be a psychopath in one message the victims wife received, police said.

You are part of the reason why I am going to destroy your husband. You didnt know anything about what you said. I am a psychopath. You do not know who I am. I am smarter and superior to you. I also lack crucial social skills. So [expletive] you and enjoy the outcome of your decision to injure me, the message sent just after midnight read.

Former students who played volleyball also received threats from Wilkinson, according to the report.

One of the students said she joined the volleyball team as a freshman in 2022 and knew Wilkinson was a sponsor of the team, but did not have any contact with him until her sophomore year.

She told police that Wilkinson provided the team with sponsor shirts, which she described as a V cut style that was extremely low cut and tight, the report stated.

During one of the teams games, Wilkinson approached the student and asked to take a picture of the shirt, both the front and back. The student told police she did not know if he was taking a picture of her shirt or of her butt.

Wilkinson asked the student for her number so he could send her pictures of the shirt. He then began sending the student messages, at one point asking her if she could go to Primm with him for his work, saying he would pay her $50, according to the report.

Around Halloween, Wilkinson sent the student his address so she could come over to trick or treat. At that point, the student blocked his number, but he continued to contact her from other numbers, which she would also have to block.

At one point, Wilkinson told the student he had a daughter who died and played volleyball, saying the student reminded him of her and he wished he could be her parent.

Police arrested Wilkinson on Monday, June 10. He faces the following charges: three counts of aggravated stalking, five counts of threatening to do bodily harm to a public school student or employee, one count of luring a child, and one count of contact with a minor.

Court records show that Wilkinson posted bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 18.

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Hezbollah head: Nowhere safe in Israel if war breaks out with Lebanon

Supporters of Hezbollah raise their fists as the party Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah appears to give a televised speech during a mass rally to mark one week of the assassination of top party commander Taleb Abdallah and four other in an Israeli air raid in south Lebanon. Marwan Naamani/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

The head of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement in Lebanon, Hassan Nasrallah, vowed Wednesday that nowhere in Israel will be safe if an all-out war erupts between the arch-enemies.

"Israel must wait for us on land, in the sea and in the air," he said.

Hezbollah has a "bank of goals" to target in Israel, he said.

Nevertheless, he stressed that his Shiite group is not seeking to engage in a full-fledged war with Israel.

The Hezbollah chief spoke via video link to a commemoration ceremony in Beirut for a senior commander who was killed by Israel last week in south Lebanon.

Nasrallah also for the first time warned nearby Cyprus against cooperating with the Israeli military.

If the Cypriot government made its airports and military bases available to the Israeli military, the island state would become part of the war, said Nasrallah.

Israeli media have reported that Israeli army special forces had travelled to Cyprus, a Mediterranean island, to train to fight Hezbollah.

The situation between Lebanon and Israel has deteriorated. There are increasing concerns that the daily cross-border clashes between the Israeli military and the Hezbollah militia is on the verge of expanding.

Israel's military approved plans for an offensive in Lebanon on Tuesday, raising concerns about an escalation.

The military said that senior commanders had approved operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon during a situation assessment. The readiness of the troops will be further increased.

Earlier on Wednesday, Hezbollah said at least three of its members were killed in an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon.

Lebanese security sources said the Israeli drone attack struck an area in the southern village of Yaroun, not far from the border with Israel.
CAIRO, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Tuesday that it is intensively coordinating with Saudi authorities to track down Egyptian citizens who have gone missing during the Hajj pilgrimage.

In a statement, the ministry said the Egyptian embassy in Riyadh sent a consular mission to Mecca and the Holy Sites to monitor developments in the current situation and continue to search for all missing Egyptian citizens in coordination with the Saudi authorities.

The mission is conducting field visits to hospitals and medical centers where Egyptian citizens are present to check their conditions and ensure that they receive the necessary medical care, it said.

The ministry also said that it is taking all necessary steps to repatriate the bodies of deceased citizens whose families have requested their return to Egypt.

The Egyptian Consulate in Jeddah has launched an emergency room that operates 24 hours a day, to receive calls from citizens who have lost contact with their families in Mecca, Medina, or the Holy Sites, according to the statement.

At least 323 Egyptian pilgrims have died during the Hajj pilgrimage in western Saudi Arabia, with most fatalities resulting from heat-related illnesses, according to two Arab diplomats coordinating their countries' responses who spoke to AFP on Tuesday.

This year's Hajj pilgrimage coincided with a sharp rise in temperatures in Mecca and the presence of a large number of pilgrims from various countries as Saudi Arabia announced on Saturday that the number of pilgrims in the country exceeded 1.8 million this year. 
Hezbollah says Israeli strike killed three of its fighters in Lebanon

A pro-Iranian Hezbollah militant walks on the rooftop of a destroyed three-story building that was demolished in an Israeli overnight air raid in the southern Lebanese village of Janata, where at least one person was killed and more than seven others wounded. Marwan Naamani/dpa

At least three members from the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement were killed Wednesday in an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon, Hezbollah and Lebanese security sources said.

Lebanese security sources said the Israeli drone attack struck an area in the southern village of Yaroun, not far from the border with Israel. According to the same sources Yaroun was hit twice overnight and this morning

In a statement, Hezbollah declared the deaths of three of its fighters. The militia usually does not elaborate on when and where its fighters die.

The strike was an Israeli retaliation to a series of attacks carried out by the Shiite militia, among them drones fired on Israeli soldiers in Metulla in northern Israel.

The state-run Lebanese news agency NNA also reported Israeli air strikes on the areas around Khiyam and near the coastal city of Tyre.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that on Wednesday morning, "several Hezbollah terrorists were identified entering a military structure in the area of Yaroun which is used as a weapons storage facility."

It said the air force attacked the structure where the terrorists operated.

The IDF said that senior commanders had approved operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon during a situation assessment. The readiness of the troops will be further increased.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah is due to give a speech at 5 pm (1400 GMT) on Wednesday in the southern suburbs of Beirut - a Hezbollah stronghold.

His speech was planned to commemorate a senior Hezbollah commander Talib Abdallah, who was killed by Israel last week.
Hezbollah says Israeli strike killed three of its fighters in Lebanon

A view of rubble of destroyed houses caused by Israeli air raids are seen in the Lebanese southern village of Naqura, located at the Lebanese-Israeli border. Marwan Naamani/dpa

At least three members from the pro-Iranian Hezbollah movement were killed Wednesday in an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon, Hezbollah and Lebanese security sources said.

Lebanese security sources said the Israeli drone attack struck an area in the southern village of Yaroun, not far from the border with Israel. According to the same sources Yaroun was hit twice overnight and this morning

In a statement, Hezbollah declared the deaths of three of its fighters. The militia usually does not elaborate on when and where its fighters die.

The strike was an Israeli retaliation to a series of attacks carried out by the Shiite militia, among them drones fired on Israeli soldiers in Metulla in northern Israel.

The state-run Lebanese news agency NNA also reported Israeli air strikes on the areas around Khiyam and near the coastal city of Tyre.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that on Wednesday morning, "several Hezbollah terrorists were identified entering a military structure in the area of Yaroun which is used as a weapons storage facility."

It said the air force attacked the structure where the terrorists operated.
BRYANT, Ark. -The Arkansas Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration recently proposed a plan to widen a section of Highway 5 in Bryant.

The project would widen a 3.2-mile stretch of Highway 5 in Bryant from Reynolds Road to Alexander Road to four lanes with the aim of making traffic flow easier on Interstate 30. A public comment meeting for the project was held Tuesday afternoon.

Locals react to White County train incident that caused highway closure, evacuation

ARDOT officials said the project includes a side path, sidewalk and an upgrade to the Bryant Parkway traffic signal among other updates.

Nova Williams lives on Highway 5 and said the proposed construction will impact her home.

We built that house 56 years ago and Ive been there all this time, Williams noted.

She added that when the construction takes place, it will back up to her front door.

Were wanting to know if theyre going to want my house or not or just part of my yard, Willaims said.

According to an environmental assessment, there are five homeowners, four residential tenants, seven businesses, 10 landlord businesses and 65 personal properties that could be displaced.

Ellen Coulter with ARDOT said theyre working toward a solution on a case-by-case basis.

ARDOTs environmental division that puts on these public meetings they have a special section that handles all of that relocation when its needed for homes and businesses and we work out a deal and help them out, Coulter said.

Pine Bluff set to receive over $500,000 from feds for downtown highway retrofit

Theyve been taking public comment and adapting the proposed plan so far. For example, some wanted a traffic light on Midland Road and now this new version of the plan includes it.

Its a really important project, A, just because this road is really due for a widening, and B, because its a really important alternate route to I-30 when I-30 is backed up, Coulter said.

Lisa Floyd has a business on the highway that wont have to be relocated, but changes will be made.

The business will stay and I own a house next door, and the sewer will be impacted a little so weve got to figure out what were doing to do, Floyd said.

She also has a meeting with representatives to discuss her options. Living in Bryant her whole life, she said shes watched it change, and understands why ARDOT says it is needed.

Bryant has just outgrown all the traffic, you know weve got to have it to make it more manageable because right now you cant get through if there is a wreck, Floyd said.

ARDOT officials said construction is set to start in mid-2026 and last about two and a half years.

Officials noted the current construction on I-30 and this proposed highway construction wont overlap.

Construction on Highway 67/167 corridor in Jacksonville running ahead of schedule

More information on the project can be read online.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
Gov. Katie Hobbs signed into law a controversial $16.1 billion state budget for the upcoming fiscal year on Tuesday. (Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy | Arizona Mirror)

Gov. Katie Hobbs signed into law a $16.1 billion state budget for the upcoming fiscal year on Tuesday, amid threats of a lawsuit from the state attorney general and disapproval from both sides of the political aisle.

The Democrat, who has spent months negotiating with GOP legislative leaders behind the scenes to resolve a nearly $2 billion budget deficit, characterized the fiscal plan as a bipartisan win.

Despite facing a $1.8 billion budget deficit, we showed Arizonans that we can work across the aisle and compromise to balance the budget and deliver for everyday Arizonans, she said, in a prepared statement accompanying the announcement of her signature.

The budgets passage in the state legislature followed more than twelve hours of contentious voting and an unusual weekend meeting. And while it garnered bipartisan approval in the end, both Democrats and Republicans voiced criticism of it. It makes sizable cuts to resolve the budget shortfall, including by wiping out the entirety of funding for the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona, axing Arizona State Universitys funding by $10.9 million and delaying multiple road projects.

In her statement, Hobbs recognized that the budget elicited divided reactions, but said that, ultimately, it helped secure the states future.

Nobody got everything they wanted, but this bipartisan, balanced budget puts our state on solid financial ground, she said. Moving forward, Ill continue working to secure our water future and create good-paying jobs for working families.

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Hobbs also vowed to continue trying to rein in private school vouchers.

Known as Empowerment Scholarship Accounts, the vouchers have seen an explosion of growth since Republican lawmakers, who hold a legislative majority, oversaw a universal expansion that opened up the grant program to students who have never before stepped foot in a public school.

The cost to taxpayers is projected to be as high as $429 million next year, but putting financial guardrails on the program was a nonstarter with Republicans. Instead, the budget prevents public school students from using ESAs over the summer break and returning to public schools in the fall, which is expected to save just $2.5 million annually.

The most controversial part of the budget was its reallocation of $75 million in state opioid settlement funds to the Arizona Department of Corrections. The money, which was won from a lawsuit launched against the makers of opioids who were found partially at fault for the opioid crisis, is strictly destined for causes that combat the fentanyl crisis.

Attorney General Kris Mayes has vocally opposed the fund transfer, warning that violating the terms of the settlement could jeopardize the total $1.4 billion that Arizona is expected to receive. Mayes has repeatedly said she will sue the governor and the legislature to ensure the money isnt moved.

This is an egregious grab, and I will do everything in my power to protect these opioid settlement funds for all Arizonans, she wrote, in a statement posted to social media site X, formerly Twitter.

Meanwhile, Hobbs office has disputed the claim that the move is illegal, and pointed to past statements Mayes has made saying that transferring the funds to the Department of Corrections is an appropriate use.

Shortly after the budgets approval in the state legislature, Republicans celebrated the plan as a fiscally responsible blueprint, and touted the partys defense of the ESA program.

Republicans are again successfully supporting our hard working citizens, while simultaneously reining in spending, said Senate President Warren Petersen, in a written statement on June 15.

We tightened the states belt by trimming fat from state agencies, and we reallocated unspent tax dollars to the general fund to eliminate the deficit, without irresponsibly tapping into our rainy-day fund, added Senate Appropriations Chairman John Kavanagh. Most government operations within the state received a healthy and manageable 3.5% reduction in spending, with a few exceptions.

Democrats offered a more somber outlook, lauding the successful lifting of a public schools spending cap, called the Aggregate Expenditure Limit, that was set to become an issue again next year, and blaming Republicans for the budget deficit that led to so many cuts.

On the state budget, we recognize that the Republican majority and our former Republican governor have put our state in an extremely difficult deficit situation because of irresponsible tax cuts for the wealthiest Arizonans and a ballooning ESA voucher giveaway to those same families, said Democratic Minority Leader Lupe Contreras, in a written statement on June 15. Whether they were a yes or a no vote on the state budget, I respect the work each of our members put in for their constituents and their districts to move our state forward as best we can.

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A 19-year-old USC student was arrested for allegedly fatally stabbing a man near the Delta Tau Delta fraternity house on Tuesday. (Brian van der Brug / Los Angeles Times)

Authorities have identified the man who police say was killed by a USC student in an altercation this week on Greek row.

The victim, described by police as homeless, was 27-year-old Xavier Cerf, according to the Los Angeles County medical examiner.

Ivan Gallegos, 19, is being held on bail of $2 million after Los Angeles police say he and two others confronted Cerf as he was breaking into a car, and Gallegos pulled out a knife and fatally stabbed him.

The confrontation occurred Monday just after 8 p.m. in the 700 block of West 28th Street, police said. Gallegos remained at the scene after the stabbing, cooperated with investigators and was later booked, according to police. The two other men who were with him were questioned and released.

Read more: New details emerge after USC student arrested in fatal stabbing of homeless man

Police said they found Cerf in a nearby alley suffering from stab wounds and when paramedics arrived he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Hours after homicide investigators cleared the crime scene Tuesday, a trail of dried blood led to an alleyway behind a row of USC fraternity buildings. The trail started near the Delta Tau Delta house and passed broken beer bottles, discarded Zyn nicotine containers and painted wood from themed fraternity parties.

Gallegos told officers the man breaking into the car claimed he was armed with a gun, according to interim LAPD Chief Dominic Choi. But a law enforcement source told The Times no gun was recovered at the scene. The district attorney has not brought charges against Gallegos, who was arrested on suspicion of murder.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Homeless man killed while allegedly breaking into cars outside USC frat house identified

Homeless man killed while allegedly breaking into cars outside USC frat house identified

The man fatally stabbed during an altercation because he was allegedly breaking into cars on USCs Greek Row in Los Angeles Monday night has been identified by coroners officials.

Police found the man, named as 27-year-old Xavier Cerf, fatally stabbed in an alleyway when responding to the incident in the 700 block of West 28th Street in the University Park neighborhood around 8:15 p.m.

Authorities said Cerf, who is believed to be homeless, was involved in a confrontation with 19-year-old USC business student Ivan Gallegos after Gallegos and two friends allegedly witnessed Cerf burglarizing cars.

Ivan Gallegos, 19, was arrested for the fatal stabbing of an unhoused man reportedly burglarizing a vehicle near USCs Greek row on June 17, 2024. (viewer photo)

Officers investigate a stabbing outside a fraternity house near USC on June 18, 2024. (KTLA)

Police investigate a fatal stabbing on USCs Greek Row on June 17, 2024. (KNN News)

At some point during the altercation, Gallegos allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Cerf multiple times.

Cerf was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gallegos remained at the scene and told investigators that he was acting in self-defense and that Cerf told him he was armed with a gun.

WATCH: LAPD officer fires beanbag round at armed man

Gallegos, who has no criminal record, was arrested and booked on suspicion of murder.

He is being held on $2 million bail.

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Homeschooling oversight: What needs to be fixed and what is missed?

Homeschooling oversight: What needs to be fixed and what is missed?

GHENT, WV (WVNS)  Homeschooling is becoming a more popular form of education around the nation and in the Mountain State. Since the death of 14-year-old Kyneddi Miller, a homeschooled teen who was found in an emaciated state in her Boone County home in April, concerns are growing surrounding the system.

Depending on the household, homeschooling is sometimes preferred over public schools.

How to spot lesser known signs of child abuse

In some instances, oversight can be an issue, and this raises an important question.

What issues do oversight bring to the table for homeschooled students and homeschooling in general?

Gary Hough, Superintendent of Fayette County Schools, said in many situations, people do not follow the rules, but hopes these concerns can be addressed soon.

We also have people that do attempt to scoot around the system. Were actually meeting on the 25th with the legislative delegation, our board is, to talk about what concerns we have with what I consider, someone who is trying to escape or go through loopholes, said Hough.

Kyneddi Millers case raises concerns about homeschooling, especially how something like this could fly under the radar in West Virginias education system.

Raleigh County man pleads guilty to fentanyl crime

Jamie Buckland, Founder of West Virginia Families United for Education, said these concerns need to be addressed and it needs to happen immediately.

I think that the conversation is necessary and Im glad at that we are having the conversation about homeschooling and accountability in alternative methods to education. I think that its an important conversation and that we should be having it. I think its sad we are having it because of a tragedy in Kynnedis situation, said Buckland to 59News.

Buckland said homeschooling can be a great opportunity, but it depends on the household.

She said now is the time for those experienced in homeschooling and stakeholders to come together to educate on how this is not an issue with the homeschool code, but rather an issue with the other government agencies who failed to enforce the code as it is.

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Homicide case involving 2-year-old girl in Gardner sent to prosecutors

OLATHE, Kan.  Police investigating the death of a 2-year-old girl in Gardner, Kansas have forwarded their case to Johnson County prosecutors.

Alice Bennett died in Gardner in November of 2023.

KCPD identifies man who died in hospital a week after crash

Back in March her death was ruled a homicide but police didnt say how she died.

On Nov. 2, 2023, Gardner police were sent just before 4 p.m. to apartments near 188th and Locust Streets for a medical call. A caretaker had found a 2-year-old child unresponsive, police said.

As first responders took the child to a local hospital, officials determined the child had suffered an injury that led to a life-threatening condition. Bennett died a few days after the incident due to her injuries.

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While the case is now heading to the Johnson County District Attorneys Office for review, so far there have been no arrests or charges.

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How hot will it get? More than 135 million in East sweltering amid intense heat wave

As the official start of astronomical summer got underway on Thursday, June 20, a widespread heat wave across the eastern United States continued to make it feel comparable to the dog days of summer during July and early August. High temperatures into the weekend will continue to soar into the 90s Fahrenheit across much of the Ohio Valley and mid-Atlantic, as well as part of New England.

Since early June, AccuWeather's long-range team of meteorologists has been highlighting the intense heat currently building across the East, as well as the chance of temperatures above the historical average lingering through the weekend.

"Millions [in the East are] at the mercy of a prolonged stretch of 90-degree Fahrenheit temperatures [this week]. The longevity of the intense heat will put additional strain on residents and electrical infrastructure," explained AccuWeather Meteorologist Renee Duff.

Some cities across the mid-Atlantic region, such as Washington, D.C., are even at risk of breaking 100 degrees Fahrenheit by the weekend.

On Sunday, the capital city is projected to reach 101 F, which would not only smash the previous daily record of 98 F set back in the 1980s but also, if it comes to fruition, be the first time the city has eclipsed the triple-digit mark since August 2016.

"As high pressure continues to build in the East, the Ohio Valley and Northeast will see daily temperature records challenged on Friday. High temperatures will be between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit and pose a risk for heat-related illnesses across the region," explained AccuWeather Meteorologist Alex Duffus.

The exclusive AccuWeather HeatWave Counter and Severity Index, which measures heat waves by duration and intensity, quantifies the heat wave in Raleigh, Chicago and Philadelphia as "strong."

Through this weekend, AccuWeather RealFeel Temperatures are forecast to reach well over 100 F as the lack of rain and uptick in humidity continue across parts of the region, providing even more discomfort for anyone participating in outdoor activities.

"It is important to remember to stay hydrated when working outside during the day and to take breaks from the heat," pointed out Duffus.

Overnight temperatures will stay elevated across the Northeast, remaining in the 70s and even failing to drop below 80 degrees for some locations. When it remains this warm as people go to sleep, additional strain on the heart can occur as the body tries to regulate its internal temperature.

As the zone of high pressure builds over the East into the late week, much of the Eastern Seaboard and mid-Atlantic region will continue to get little or no rainfall, further exacerbating the sweltering conditions as well as poor air quality levels.

Forecasters say that air quality levels can be unhealthy for sensitive groups, such as children, older populations and those with respiratory conditions, into late week.

"Due to the persistent weather pattern this week, air quality is anticipated to deteriorate significantly, particularly along the Interstate 95 corridor from Washington, D.C., to Boston. The primary culprit behind this decline in air quality is likely to be ozone. It's essential for residents in these regions to stay informed and take necessary precautions during this period," stated Duffus.

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Farther north into the Ohio Valley and interior Northeast, forecasters say that sporadic thunderstorms can develop along the ridge and provide some relief from the heat as well as improve air quality levels. Some storms that develop in this zone through Friday, however, can become severe and bring hazards such as hail and gusty winds.

While the heat is expected to last a few more days for many, relief is on the way. A cold front is anticipated to make its way into the Ohio Valley and Northeast this weekend and early next week.

This pattern change will usher in slightly cooler conditions and lower humidity levels, aiding in the recovery of many from the prolonged heat wave. Thunderstorms will erupt along and ahead of the cool front. Where downpours repeat, there may be flash flooding.

"By late weekend, a cold front will slowly progress eastward across the Great Lakes and New England states. The cooler, less humid air following the front will provide some relief for residents in the Midwest and interior Northeast into early next week," noted Duffus.

Additional reporting by AccuWeather meteorology intern Thomas Witte.

Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer.
STOCKHOLM, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The Swedish parliament voted through a controversial defense agreement with the United States on Tuesday night granting U.S. military access to Swedish bases all over the country.

According to the pact, the Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA), the U.S. military now has the right to use all 17 Swedish military bases where the former may construct its own buildings on the bases. At the same time, U.S. military vehicles, ships and aircraft may move freely on Swedish territory and may not be boarded or subject to checks without U.S. consent.

The purpose of the agreement, as stated by the Swedish government, is to enable the United States to provide prompt assistance to Sweden in case of a crisis. The agreement is also intended to enhance the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) capacity to defend the Baltic states and Finland.

The Left Party and the Green Party in Sweden's parliament voted against the agreement in question. Hakan Svenneling, the foreign policy spokesperson for the Left Party, expressed disappointment over the agreement's passage.

Members of parliament from both parties criticized the government's handling of the agreement, describing it as not only naive but also foolish, in an op-ed article published in the Swedish daily Aftonbladet.

According to Swedish Television, the Left Party and the Green Party were critical of the agreement's lack of provisions regarding nuclear weapons, contrasting it with similar agreements in Denmark and Norway.

Sweden currently does not allow nuclear weapons to be deployed on Swedish soil in peacetime. But Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said recently that the issue of nuclear weapons in wartime may be reconsidered.

In March, Sweden officially joined NATO as the alliance's 32nd member, abandoning its long-standing non-aligned military policy. 
From the Dispatch Politics on The Dispatch

Happy Wednesday! A documentary about South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem will debut on X on Thursday. Were curious to see whether one particular moment in her life is included 

Up to Speed

Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz is under active investigation by the House Ethics Committee for allegedly engaging in sexual misconduct, using illegal drugs, accepting improper gifts, giving favors to people personally connected to him, and obstructing investigations into his actions, the committee said in a letter released Tuesday. Gaetz, who has denied all allegations, said on X the committee was opening new frivolous investigations in order to avoid the obvious fact that every investigation into me ends the same way: my exoneration. In 2023, the Department of Justice closed an investigation into alleged sex trafficking by the congressman, bringing no charges, but the ethics committee did not close its probe, which began in 2021. Gaetz in his post blamed former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy for the new action by the committee, over a month after McCarthy endorsed his opponent in Floridas August 20 primary, following Gaetzs successful motion to vacate McCarthys office.

Former first lady Melania Trump will headline a fundraiser next month in New Yorks Trump Tower for the Log Cabin Republicans, an LGBT group, Politico reported Tuesday. The eventproceeds from which will benefit a Log Cabin Republicans program to turn out voters for former President Donald Trump and other Republican candidatesrepresents Melania Trumps second fundraiser with the group this election cycle after she hosted one in April at Mar-a-Lago. The news comes at a time when Trump is under pressure to strike language from the Republican Party platform opposing same-sex marriage, as Dispatch Politics previously reported.

On Tuesday, the Biden administration announced a plan to give lawful permanent residence to certain unauthorized immigrants who are spouses or children of American citizens. For spouses to be eligible, they must be married to a citizen and have lived in America for at least 10 years. These actions will promote family unity and strengthen our economy, providing a significant benefit to the country and helping U.S. citizens and their noncitizen family members stay together, reads a fact sheet from the White House. The announcement comes as Biden attempts to navigate an issue that has proven an electoral liability for him, signing an executive order earlier this month to curb illegal border crossings.

Mitch McConnell will step down from his position as Senate Republican leader this November, but he is actively planning his partys legislative agenda for a potential GOP sweep in the November elections, The Hill reported Tuesday. He is said to be putting together a budget reconciliation package that would extend tax cuts Republicans passed in 2017 under Trump and boost defense spending. McConnell could also end up holding the top spot on the chambers Appropriations Committee or Defense Appropriations Subcommittee at the start of next year. Reports of McConnells plans for 2025 come after he had a positive meeting with Trump and other Senate Republicans last week.

West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin will appear at a fundraiser later this month for Huntington Mayor Steve Williams, the states Democratic nominee for governor, per a local reporter. Manchins appearance at the fundraiser suggests it is unlikely that he will make an independent gubernatorial runafter another West Virginia outlet reported that Republicans in West Virginia dissatisfied with Attorney General Patrick Morrisey being the GOP nominee encouraged Manchin to consider a bid for the office.

New Jersey prosecutors on Monday charged George Norcross, a businessman considered a kingmaker in the states Democratic Party, with racketeering. Norcross, who maintains his innocence, arrived uninvited to New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkins press conference, sitting in the front row with his attorneys behind him as Platkin unveiled the charges. Despite having never held elected office, Norcross has the status of an influential power broker among New Jersey Democrats whose support and fundraising ability substantially helps his preferred candidates. Norcross indictment comes as Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez, another prominent New Jersey politician, is on trial on unrelated federal bribery charges.

John McGuire Holds Narrow Lead Over Bob Good in Virginias 5th District

John McGuire, a Republican candidate in Virginia's 5th Congressional District, speaks with supporters at the Annual Father's Day Car Show in Bumpass, Virginia, on Saturday, June 15, 2024. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Voters in Virginia and Oklahoma participated in multiple closely watched and consequential Republican primaries Tuesday nightwith the most intriguing race still too close to call as of Wednesday morning.

That marquee matchup was in Virginias 5th Congressional District, where Republican Rep. Bob Good, the chair of the House Freedom Caucus, attempted to fend off a challenge from state Sen. John McGuire, whom former President Donald Trump has endorsed. Early Wednesday morning, the Associated Press had McGuire up by fewer than 400 votes with 98 percent counted, noting that Virginia observes the Juneteenth federal holiday, meaning the states poll workers are not likely to count votes. The Virginia Public Access Project, which also shows election results in the state, said that the result of the race probably will not be official until Friday, given that officials have yet to count provisional ballots and eligible mail-in votes that will arrive between Wednesday and Friday.

Nevertheless, McGuire declared victory at his campaigns watch party late Tuesday night, saying it is an honor to be your Republican nominee. Meanwhile, Goods campaign said around the same time that it was still awaiting the final count. We implemented the best early voting operation that the 5th District has ever seen, and we are still waiting for the results of mail-in ballots and provisional ballots, the campaign posted on X, also telling supporters: No matter the outcome, youve shown the DC Swamp that you wont back down from standing for whats right. In a later post, the campaign said it believed it can still prevail.

The campaign in the districtwhich encompasses a vast area stretching from Charlottesville to Lynchburg to Danvilleperhaps best illustrates the strange alliances in the GOPs Trump era.

In the lead-up to Tuesdays primary, Trump endorsed McGuire, in large part because Good backed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis instead of Trump for the presidential nomination. And House leaderships support for the incumbent has been tepid. Good, who voted to eject former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy from his office last fall, has battled with Speaker Mike Johnson over such issues as aid to Ukraine.

Mike Johnson has done nothing to help me in my race, Good told Politico in an interview last week. Good has, however, received support from Freedom Caucus membersincluding Reps. Chip Roy, Byron Donalds, and Matt Gaetz.

But McGuire, a retired Navy SEAL, has found allies across party factions. Although he earned support from some mainstream Republicans such as House Armed Services Committee Chair Rep. Mike Rogers, he also welcomed firebrand Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene to his district to campaign for him earlier this month. Freedom Caucus member Rep. Warren Davidson also supported him. While theres no dedicated issues page on his campaign website, McGuire summarizes his political philosophy there as Pro-Life. Pro-Gun. Pro-Trump, and the site features prominently the Truth Social post in which Trump endorsed him.

Elsewhere in Virginia, the Republican primary in the states 7th Congressional District saw the Johnson-endorsed Derrick Anderson defeat Cameron Hamiltonwho touted the support of Good, as well as other Freedom Caucus members, including Reps. Chip Roy and Byron Donaldsby almost 9 points.

As Dispatch Politics previously reported, Anderson and Hamilton, both veterans, fought for the GOP nomination to replace Rep. Abigail Spanberger, who will retire at the end of her third term to run for governor. The swing district is one of the top targets for Republicans this cycle, and the GOP has become more bullish about its chances without Spanberger on the ballot.

In Oklahoma, Rep. Tom Cole, who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, handily defeated deep-pocketed right-wing challenger Paul Bondar and three other challengers in the states 5th Congressional District. The Trump-endorsed Cole told Dispatch Politics last week that he felt comfortable about his prospects leading up to the primary election given that Bondar had few ties to the Oklahoma district. Still, he took the challenge seriously due to the large amount of money Bondar was able to spend.

Cole was one of several incumbent House Republicans to face a primary challenge from the right this cycle. Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas eked out a runoff win in late May by about 400 votes against a primary challenger who attacked him over his vote for a gun control package that President Joe Biden supported. In Iowas primaries a week later, Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Randy Feenstra defeated their challengers by 12 points and about 20 points, respectively. Cole had little difficulty defeating his top challenger, winning by nearly 40 points.

Whats Driving Larry Hogans Senate Run?

Why is Larry Hogan, the purest example today of a moderate Republican, running for Senate when so many like himpractical problem solvers who prefer more civil discourseare fleeing the Trumpified GOP conferences in Congress? Our colleague John McCormack spent some time recently with the Republican nominee in Maryland, who is trying to become the first of his party to win a Senate seat from that deep-blue state since 1980. Heres an excerpt from his article on the website:

An executive at heart, Hogan had rebuffed pleas from Republicans to run for Senate for years because he said he viewed the job as arguing all day and getting nothing done. But days before Marylands February 9 Senate filing deadline, he was in a meeting in New York City with officials from No Labels, the centrist political group that had hoped to field a presidential ticket this year. They were asking me to be their candidate for president, and were showing me polls and modeling and whatnot that showed we could run a pretty good race, Hogan said of the meeting. I think I started at 23 percent with Biden and Trump in the high 20s. The pitch was tempting, but while he was still in New York, he received an influential call from former President George W. Bush. I just dont think you can win, Bush said of a potential No Labels presidential bid, according to Hogan. I think you cant get to 270 [electoral votes]. But the former Republican president urged Hogan to consider a bid for the Senate. You can make a bigger difference than you think, Hogan remembers Bush saying. I never really wanted to be a senator. I know you dont want to be one either, but I think the party needs you and the country needs you. Youve got an important voice. I think itll give you a platform for that voice. Hogan said he doubted he could accomplish much, but Bush disagreed: I think youre going to be the guy in the middle of every deal. Youre going to be like a Joe Manchin or a John McCain.

But Democrats are working hard to paint Hogan as a stooge for Trump, despite the two-term former governor being one of the more prominent Republican critics of the former president. Hogans opposition to Trump is one big hurdle for him winning his race against the Democratic nominee, Prince Georges County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, since hell need nearly every Marylander voting for Trump to also vote for him. But Hogan will also need to win over some of the Democrats and independents that helped him win two races for governor, which means highlighting some of the moderate positions he has that puts him at odds with the GOP base:

On social issues, Hogan is running as a liberal and trying hard to differentiate himself from almost all congressional Republicans by endorsing a federal bill to codify Roe v. Wade. Yet even there he has also drawn a contrast with Alsobrooks. Shortly after the primary concluded on May 14, Hogan told the New York Times he backs federal abortion legislation to codify Roe sponsored by Republican Sen. Susan Collins of Maine but does not support the Womens Health Protection Act, legislation backed by Alsobrooks and every Senate Democrat except Joe Manchin of West Virginia, because it would prohibit even modest state limits on abortion allowed under Roe. Asked if he had any tests for Supreme Court nominees, Hogan told The Dispatch: I dont believe in litmus tests, but I have more experience appointing judges than anybody in the Senate. Hogan said that as governor, he appointed nearly 200 judges, including six out of the seven members of our Supreme Court. Three of them I appointed were women, two of them African American women. I took every one of [the judicial nominations] completely seriously, he added. I never asked someone to prejudgetell me how you might decide on this future case that might come before you.

Be sure to read the whole piece.

Notable and Quotable

Willie Mays wasnt just a singular athlete, blessed with an unmatched combination of grace, skill and power. He was also a wonderfully warm and generous personand an inspiration to an entire generation. Im lucky to have spent time with him over the years, and Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family. Former President Barack Obama in an X post following news of the death of baseball legend Willie Mays at age 93, June 18, 2024.

Read more at The Dispatch

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The Scoop

A US House panel will examine Chinas efforts to dominate key industries including semiconductors, shipbuilding, and drones during a hearing next week.

The House select committee on China will hold the public hearing next Wednesday, according to details shared first with Semafor. Lawmakers will hear from Chris Miller, an authority on semiconductors and the author of Chip War: The Fight for the Worlds Most Critical Technology, United Steelworkers international president David McCall, and Adam Bry, the CEO of the California-based drone company Skydio.

Know More

The hearing suggests the committee is shifting its focus to Chinas competition with American manufacturing industries, with an eye on critical technologies. The panel has spent recent hearings examining Chinas international development initiatives, the fentanyl crisis and cyber threats.

Semiconductors in particular have been an area of focus for the Biden administration and Congress with the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act passed in 2022. The Commerce Department has distributed billions in grants to foreign and domestic chip manufacturers like Taiwans TSMC to help revive the ailing US chip manufacturing industry, while also imposing export controls on advanced chip technology flowing to China.

At the same time, China has been investing heavily in its own chip industry, including by unveiling a $47.5 billion state investment fund for semiconductors earlier this year.

The China select committees bipartisan leaders, Reps. John Moolenaar, R-Mich. and Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., also recently asked the administration to investigate security risks posed by Chinese-made drones and potentially regulate them in the US. The House recently passed legislation that would ban future US sales of drones manufactured by the Chinese firm DJI. The drones are widely used across the US.

With the focus on steel and shipbuilding, its possible next weeks hearing will also touch on the Biden administrations Section 301 trade investigation into Chinas dominance in shipbuilding, an industry that has been largely eroded in the US.

Notable

The House panel previously asked chief executives from American chip companies Intel, Nvidia, and Micron to testify , the Financial Times reported at the start of this year.

The panel has also focused on Taiwan. Moolenaar and Krishnamoorthi cosponsored a bill that would direct US assistance to countries that face economic backlash from China for attempting to forge ties with the self-governing island.




New houses starting at under $700K being built in this Pierce County neighborhood

A regional homebuilding firm has announced its latest project, a new development in Lakewood thats already sold two homes.

Pacific Lifestyle Homes has launched sales for Austin Court, 8716 104th St. SW. The new neighborhood is south of Fort Steilacoom Park.

A drone shot of the Austin Court neighborhood lots being developed by Pacific Lifestyle Homes in Lakewood.

The nine-home subdivision features houses starting just below $700,000.

The news follows Pacifics introduction of homes at its Acorn Park Development near JBLM last fall.

Pacific Lifestyle Homes is tied to Garrette Custom Homes under the same Vancouver, Washington-based company umbrella that operates as both brands in the Puget Sound region and Vancouver/Portland area. Its Puget Sound division office is in Tacoma.

Garrette, among its other projects, is one of the builders at Tehaleh near Bonney Lake.

County records show an LLC affiliated with Garrette bought five Lakewood parcels at the site last November.

We have already seen strong demand for these homes with two already being sold before opening, said Matt Lewis, Puget Sound Division president of Pacific Lifestyle Homes, in Tuesdays announcement. They are in a great area and the single-level floorplans we offer are very hard to find,

Two-story floor plans also are available. Homes in the neighborhood range from 1,805 to 2,305 square feet, offering 3-5 bedrooms and 2 or 2.5 bathrooms, with a choice of two or three-car garages, among other features/options.

Each home also is designed to be EV ready.

For more information, call 877-500-5675 or go to the builders website.

The News Tribune archives contributed to this report.
HPD looking for man believed to be connected to incident at Redstone bank

UPDATE: HPD has identified the individual.

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  Authorities are asking for the publics help identifying a man in connection to an incident at a Huntsville bank.

The Huntsville Police Department posted photos of a person they believe is connected to an incident at the Redstone Federal Credit Union at 11800 Memorial Parkway SW.

They say it happened just before 1:30 p.m. on June 13.

HPD asks that if you recognize the person in the security images, please contact Investigator Christopher Smith at 256-564-8078.

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 Ganges River merges with other major rivers in Bangladesh and empties into the Bay of Bengal. | Credit: Carl & Ann Purcell via Getty Images

A huge earthquake that shook southern Asia 2,500 years ago abruptly changed the course of the Ganges River, new research suggests.

The earthquake was previously unknown to science, but researchers spotted clues of its immense force buried in the landscape near Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. The team revealed its findings in a study published Monday (June 17) in the journal Nature Communications . The quake likely reached magnitude 7.5 or 8 and was so powerful it rerouted the main stem of the Ganges  despite the displaced section of river being more than 110 miles (180 kilometers) away from the quake's epicenter.

Rapid river-course changes are called avulsions. Researchers have previously documented avulsions caused by seismic activity, but "I don't think we have ever seen such a big one anywhere," study co-author Michael Steckler , a geophysicist and research professor at the Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory of the Columbia Climate School in New York, said in a statement .

The Ganges is one of the largest rivers in the world, flowing for about 1,600 miles (2,500 km). It starts in the Himalayas, on the border between India and China, and then flows east through India to Bangladesh, where it merges with other major rivers, including the Brahmaputra and the Meghna. The combined waterways fan out to form the largest river delta on Earth and empty out into the Bay of Bengal.

Related: Why do earthquakes happen far away from plate boundaries?

Like other rivers that flow through big deltas, the Ganges can change its own course  without help from an earthquake  by carrying sediments that gradually accumulate on the riverbed. Eventually, enough sediment builds up in one spot to grow taller than the surrounding landscape, at which point the river spills over and carves out a new path for itself.

While this process occurs over several years or decades, an earthquake could potentially reroute a river more or less instantaneously, Steckler said.

"It was not previously confirmed that earthquakes could drive avulsion in deltas, especially for an immense river like the Ganges," study lead author Liz Chamberlain , a geochronologist and assistant professor at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, said in the statement.

A satellite image shows the many branches of the Ganges Delta as they empty into the Bay of Bengal.

Satellite imagery gave scientists the first clues that the Ganges had been violently rerouted in the past, according to the statement. Chamberlain and her colleagues spotted what looked like an old river channel running parallel to the Ganges roughly 62 miles (100 km) south of Dhaka. The researchers then explored the region to gather more evidence and found bands of sand cutting through the muddy ground in several locations. They identified the bands as seismites  vertical layers of sand that "erupt" when an earthquake shakes watery soils  and concluded that they had formed in a single event.

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Chemical analyses of the sand and mud revealed that the event, which the scientists deduced must have been a huge earthquake, took place 2,500 years ago.

Two separate mechanisms could have triggered the earthquake, according to the study. The first is a seismically active zone around the Shillong Massif mountains in northeastern India, where the Indian tectonic plate is scrunching up against the Eurasian plate . The second is the subduction of the Indian Ocean crust beneath Bangladesh, Myanmar and northeastern India. Both processes are occurring more than 110 miles from where the researchers found the seismites, which suggests the Ganges-rerouting earthquake had a minimum magnitude of 7.5 to 8, according to the study.

A 2016 study led by Steckler showed that both the Shillong Massif and the Indo-Burman subduction zone could trigger earthquakes of a similar magnitude again. Such a quake could affect around 140 million people, the study found.
Huge financial investment in public safety: COJ strikes deal with police and fire unions

Tentative agreements between the City of Jacksonville and the local police and fire unions have been struck.

Highlights include double-digit pay raises and the return of a pension. Theres a lot of enthusiasm about what the deal would mean for recruitment and retention, especially for police.

Im grateful we reached this historic agreement with the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep all our citizens safe. The agreement ensures that benefits match the commitment of our brave police and corrections officers while supporting the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office in its goal to attract the best and brightest to the force, Mayor Donna Deegan said in an emailed statement.

With JSO down more than 100 street officers and 200 corrections officers, getting a sizable pay raise and bringing back the pension were must-haves. In the end, the agency got both.

JSO officers will get a 13% pay raise in the next fiscal year and5% raises for the next two years under the tentative deal struck with the city.

Corrections officers will see a 15% raise later this year, then an 8.5% raise and a 7% raise in the following years.

The mayor has made a huge financial investment in public safety and our members here, so that the sheriff, Sheriff Waters, can recruit and retain the best and the brightest, FOP Lodge 530 President Randy Reaves said.

Reaves specifically praised Mayor Donna Deegan for bringing police back to the Florida Retirement System.

Her choice to get us back to a defined benefit in year three of this contract is really going to be what turns around the fact that we have so many vacancies on police and corrections, Reaves said.

JSO officers currently make almost $10,000 less a year on average and corrections officers nearly $7,000 less compared to similarly sized agencies throughout the state.

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The deal would raise starting salaries right around those averages, with police making more than $65,000 and corrections over $60,000.

Sheriff T.K. Waters said raising the starting salaries will be a game changer for recruitment and retention.

I think we have a little bit more to go, but were closer to where it should be, I think its going to be tremendous for us, Waters said.

On the fire side, recruitment and retention have also been a challenge.

I could tell you in the last two months we had six just quit, Jacksonville Association of Firefighters President Kelly Dobson said.

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Dobson said the return of a pension and a 12% pay raise next fiscal year will put JFRD back on a level playing field.

Thats going to make a huge difference for our department, Dobson said.

Members of both unions are expected to vote on the contracts in July.

If approved, the contracts will go before council for approval ahead of the new budget year, which starts October 1.

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DENVER (KDVR)  President Joe Biden unveiled a new program Tuesday that will allow spouses and children of U.S. citizens to stay in the country, and his administration says it will help about a half million undocumented immigrants  including here in Colorado.

A big focus of the presidents plan is keeping families together. Advocates said its a good step forward, but there is more work to be done.

This is a momentous occasion, and it demonstrates that for nearly 30 years, advocates and families and attorneys and elected officials, business leaders and faith leaders, have called on Congress to reform our deeply broken immigration system, said state Sen. Julie Gonzales of Denver.

What is that new flag flying at the Colorado Capitol?

In order to qualify, people have to be married as of June 17, 2024, and living in the U.S. for at least 10 years. Once the Department of Homeland Security approves the application for the families, those eligible will have three years to apply for permanent residency. As it stands right now, people who are caught in the U.S. illegally have to leave the country before they re-enter legally and try to get a green card.

Families with immigrants: Amazing, huge relief

Gonzales and immigration lawyer Hans Meyer celebrated Bidens executive order allowing a path to citizenship for spouses here illegally. Meyer said he has helped mixed-status families 8-14 hours a day, six days a week for the past 18 years in Colorado. He believes the impact on families in Colorado will be far-reaching.

Currently, somebody who is in the country without status has to navigate a five- to eight-year process to obtain the residency that they are legally entitled to apply for, Meyer said, adding that it requires them to be separated from their families for an interview in their country of origin.

The process was something families, like Estephania and her husband Alejandro, worried about before the announcement.

I think about broken families, and thats what its been in my family before and thats what weve experienced. So for us, for Alejandro not to have to leave the United States to be able to really finalize this process, is amazing, Estephania said.

El Chapultepec building, once a centerpiece of Denver nightlife, has new plans

Ed Markowitz also shared his reaction with FOX31. His family went through years of tumult after his wife had to leave the U.S. despite her getting married to her husband and raising a family in Lakewood.

This raises the awareness of what our ultimate, permanent relief must be, which is Congress needs to act on legislation. But for this part, its a huge relief. If you hear something that sounds like thunder, its half a million American citizens and their spouses falling to their knees in gratitude, Markowitz said.

Immigration action trims time to green card

Some Republicans have said the action will only lead to a flood of more migrants coming in illegally. Myers said it clarified a process already in place.

They have to follow the same legal process, they have to jump through the same hoops, legally speaking. It just means we can follow that process in a year or a year and a half instead of eight. It gives opportunities for people to stay with their children, to stay with their spouses, to continue to work in the country, pay taxes, be contributing members of their community and navigate the legal process so they can obtain their green cards, Meyers said.

Would giving homeless populations cash save taxpayers money? Study says yes

Attorneys feel the qualifications for the program are narrow but still feel it is a positive step forward. Advocates are urging Congress to act on immigration reform.

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.
An investigation into an illicit massage parlor in Manatee County led to the rescue of at least 10 human trafficking victims, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody announced.

Moody also announced a new Florida Human Trafficking Strike Team, which she said helped investigate prostitution rings in Manatee and Hillsborough Counties, leading to several arrests.

Moody said law enforcement officers rescued 10 victims from the alleged trafficking ring. She expects that number to increase as the investigation continues.

Mark Brutnell, a special agent with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, said the new strike force team made several arrests in the investigation.

What we found was a fully functional, highly organized, international human trafficking operation based here in Hillsborough County and Manatee County, Brutnell said.

According to Brutnell, more than 117 victims have been cycled through businesses run by Lina Payne, the alleged owner of at least two businesses in Manatee County accused of illegal sex work.

The disturbing facts of this case highlight the need for our new statewide strike team and demonstrate how this expert team of investigators, prosecutors, analysts and victims advocates can help coordinate efforts to take down trafficking operations and rescue victims, Moody said.

Human trafficking victims recovered, FDLE says

Payne, 52, would make frequent trips to Latin American countries and the majority of the victims were funneled from these areas, Brutnell said.

Investigators said Payne charged women recruited from Venezuela and Colombia between $40,000 and $50,000 to be smuggled across the border and into the United States, promising them legitimate work. Instead, detectives said these women were held in debt bondage and coerced to perform sex acts for money and pay the proceeds to Paynes illegal business.

Payne would also often make threats of physical violence against the women and their families in other countries, while the women had no means of transportation and lived at the massage parlors, effectively cutting them off from the outside world, Brutnell said.

Detectives said those businesses included one in Bradenton, where the investigation began: Latin Relaxation on Cortez Road. The businesss website advertised face shaves and massages for $220, but investigators say customers were paying those prices for sex with human trafficking victims.

During a Manatee County Sheriffs Office investigation into the Bradenton massage parlor, an undercover detective found used condoms, envelopes full of cash and rooms filled with beds but no massage tables.

Bradenton massage parlor at center of investigation

The latest arrest came Friday when Sandra Garavito was charged with racketeering and deriving support from proceeds of prostitution, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.

Court records show Garavito was released the next day on bond. FDLE officials described Garavito as a key player in Paynes alleged human trafficking enterprise.

Court records show a judge denied Paynes bond at a hearing on June 10.

In May, the Manatee County Sheriffs Office also arrested Paynes alleged accomplice, 56-year-old Karen McGlynn, who they said managed some of Lina Paynes locations. Court records show McGlynn was released from jail on June 6.

In October, a multi-faceted human trafficking operation called Operation Refuge resulted in 17 arrests as part of a crackdown on local massage parlors, with one employee at Latin Relaxation being charged with deriving support from the proceeds of prostitution.

Major Todd Shear, the investigative bureau chief at the Manatee County Sheriffs Office, said hes thankful the Latin Relaxation case expanded to involve the new strike force team, the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Department of Homeland Security.

As you know, this case germinated in Manatee and if we just siloed that case to ourselves, wow, we would have missed a whole lot of victims. Wow, we would have missed a whole lot of prosecutions that needed to be done, Shear said at the news conference.

Moody said the new strike force team is assisting local law enforcement agencies with more than 20 human trafficking cases and has made contact with around 40 human trafficking victims.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  The family of a man killed in a hit and run crash hopes to bring his body back home to Guatemala.

Rene Choc-Caal, 47, was hit by the driver of a white minivan Saturday night in South Nashville.

He was a hard worker. He was very humble. He was a good person. We are sad, all the time we are sad for the loss of my cousin, Rosalina and Romeo Tot told News 2.

Police searching for minivan driver after deadly hit-and-run crash on E. Thompson Lane

Overlooking the remnants of crime scene tape while describing their heartache, they said that Choc-Caal moved to Nashville eight years ago. He, along with his two sons, sought to make a better living for his family. They left behind Choc-Caals wife and three younger children.

Life in Guatemala is sad. We dont have a place to live in over there, the Tots said. We came here to improve our quality of life and to help our family back in Guatemala as well.

Choc-Caals family said that he lived just a couple of blocks away from where he was killed Saturday night on East Thompson Lane. They said that he was walking home from the store when he was hit by the driver of a white Dodge caravan. The van was later recovered by police, abandoned on Interstate 40 between the Donelson Pike and Stewarts Ferry Pike exits.

Police are still searching for the driver.

(Source: MNPD)

(Source: MNPD)

We are asking for justice so they find the person that killed my cousin, they said. We want justice.

While trying to make sense of the tragedy, Choc-Caals family said that there are funeral expenses as they hope to return his body back to his family in Guatemala.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

We want to send the body back to Guatemala and we appreciate any support you can give us. May God pay you back for all that you do for us, they said.

You can donate to help the family through Zelle at 615-856-3913. Anyone with information about the driver of the minivan is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

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.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivers a keynote speech when attending the reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and the Year of China-Malaysia Friendship with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, June 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China and Malaysia have brought bilateral relationship to a new starting point, and they share the aspiration to carry it forward to future generations, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Wednesday.

Li made the remarks in his keynote speech when attending the reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and the Year of China-Malaysia Friendship with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

Li said that as Chinese President Xi Jinping pointed out, China and Malaysia are neighbors with a millennium-old friendship, friends connected by heart, and partners for win-win cooperation.

Over the past 50 years of diplomatic ties, the two countries have committed to independence of strategies, win-win cooperation, mutual support and cultural affinity, Li said, adding that the development of this relationship offers many important experience and inspirations, which are shared valuable assets for both sides.

Noting this year as the Year of China-Malaysia Friendship, Li said "friendship" is a word that carries great weight, something especially precious today.

He said that this is a world that lacks peace and tranquility, but never disputes and conflicts; a world that lacks rationality and humility, but never arbitrary and brutal acts; a world that lacks empathy, but never egocentrism; and a world that lacks openness and cooperation, but never blockade and confrontation.

The world should put more emphasis on mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation, and completely discard the zero-sum game thinking and practices, Li said, adding that the world should also try harder to stand in others' shoes, and adhere to the principle of "do not do to others what you don't want others to do to you."

Li said that the celebrations for the Year of China-Malaysia Friendship is not only designed to grow bilateral relations, but also to champion the spirit of friendship, and to call on and rally more from across the world to join hands and cross over to a better, shared future.

Li stressed that be it in the past, present or future, friendship remains the defining feature of China-Malaysia relations.

The two sides should enhance traditional friendship, consolidate the foundation for bilateral relations, and pursue wide-ranging cooperation in the context of building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, Li said.

The two sides should synergize development strategies and expand shared interests, so as to deliver more benefits to the two peoples, Li said.

The two sides should deepen exchanges and mutual learning to cement the foundation for people-to-people affinity and build a stronger bond between the peoples.

They should also strengthen solidarity and coordination to address global challenges together, and jointly build a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful, amicable and harmonious home in Asia, Li said.

In his speech, Anwar said the friendship between Malaysia and China has a long history.

Since the two countries' leaders made the decision to establish diplomatic ties 50 years ago, Malaysia-China relations have enjoyed vigorous development, bringing huge benefits to the two peoples, he said.

Malaysia has always viewed its relations with China from a strategic height, as promoting friendly cooperation with China is in the fundamental interests of Malaysia, Anwar said, adding that bilateral relations not only have a glorious past but also a promising future.

Anwar said Malaysia supports the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by President Xi, and is willing to work with China to deepen cooperation in such fields as trade, investment, food, energy, digital economy and environmental protection, promote major projects such as the East Coast Rail Link and the "Two Countries, Twin Parks," and strengthen exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, so as to jointly open a new era of Malaysia-China relations.

Prior to the reception, Li and Anwar visited a photo exhibition marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Malaysia and presented souvenirs to each other. 

Full Text: Keynote speech by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and the Year of China-Malaysia Friendship

Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim present souvenirs to each other prior to the reception celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia and the Year of China-Malaysia Friendship in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, June 19, 2024. Li delivered a keynote speech when attending the reception with Anwar on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)
Hungarian opposition leader Peter Magyar said on June 18 that he supports Ukraine's right to self defense but does not support sending weapons to Kyiv, Politico reported.

Magyar's TISZA party won seven seats in the recent European Parliament elections, chipping away at the dominance of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's far-right Fidesz party. Magyar has emerged as Orban's most serious opponent and hopes to challenge him in the 2026 national elections.

Speaking to journalists after bringing his delegation into European Parliament, Magyar clarified his stance against providing weapons to Ukraine.

"We share the position of the (Hungarian) government: We will not send troops or weapons to Ukraine from Hungary. You know the sensitive situation of Hungary in that war," Magyar said.

Magyar and his MEPs from TISZA entered the European Parliament as part of the European People's Party (EPP) group. EPP leaders including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and party chief Manfred Weber made acceptance into the EPP grouping conditional on support for Ukraine.

Read also: Rutte endorsed by Orban as next NATO Secretary General after agreeing to Hungarys opt-out of Ukraine support

Hungary under Orban's leadership has remained Moscow's closest ally in the EU. Orban has repeatedly obstructed aid for Ukraine and opposed Kyiv's NATO and EU accession.

Weber reportedly negotiated directly with Magyar regarding Ukraine in the week before the new MEPs' arrival.

"I think the EPP understood the special, sensitive Hungarian situation in that war," Magyar said.

"But we will support with all other manner and tools of course [the] Ukrainian people."

Magyar reiterated support for Ukraine's "independence and sovereignty" and characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin as an aggressor.

"Everything he says in relation to Ukraine and the war, the Orban propaganda machine uses against him," an EPP spokesperson told Politico.

"So it is very clear why he is prudent about that."

Read also: European elections: Far-right gains, center holds, Ukraine-skeptics flounder

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A shiny mystery seems to have reappeared after Las Vegas Metro Police posted a picture on social media saying they found a mysterious monolith near Gass Peak over the weekend.

Metro Police Search and Rescue Unit spotted the monolith from the air north of the valley near Gass Peak and posted about it via X on Monday.

For Las Vegas residents, finding the monolith may not be so simple: You would need to travel an hour to an hour and a half on a bumpy road outside of Las Vegas before you even get to the hiking trails to find the shiny mystery.

Alesha Wallace and James Davis were out on their second attempt to find the object when they ran into 8 News Now.

We saw the post and I really wanted to come see because we missed the one in Utah because they had it taken down so quickly, so I wasnt going to risk not going to see it this time, Wallace explained. We searched for hours last night hiking all the way up to the top of Gass Peak and did not having any luck then so today we are out again.

Related: Mysterious monolith pops up in desert near Las Vegas

Wallace and Davis found a note near the Gass Peak trailhead explaining that the monolith could not be found on that specific trail. The locals then decided to head to the other side of the mountain to try and find it.

We were pretty excited to find out it was near a trail we are pretty familiar with, Wallace said.

While the trail was one they were familiar with it was not an easy one, Davis explained.

No matter where you step you just slide down and it was 3.3 miles to the top. It was a hike, Davis, said.

Gass Peak Map (KLAS)

Monolith- Skyline Helicopter Tours

Gass Peak Trail (KLAS)

Note near Gass Peak Trailhead (KLAS)

Three years ago Dean Miarecki, of Skyline Helicopter Tours spotted a similar monolith and shot and uploaded a video of it on YouTube. But no one is quite sure if that monolith is the same one that now sits upon the peak.

Many locals, including Wallace and Davis, are out searching for answers to the mystery.

It got so many off their butt, out and hiking and adventuring together as a family and that is what it is kind of about, Davis, explained.

Metro Police warns citizens that it is not an easy trek out to Gass Peak and that they should take careful precautions before hiking to catch the monolith. Some of these include notifying someone of your whereabouts, doing proper research before the hike, and bringing plenty of water and supplies necessary during the hike.

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.
Revelations that a company that was awarded a massive $1.2 billion state contract hired three state employees  including one employee involved in evaluating the companys bid  illustrates the need for Idaho to pass so-called cooling off legislation.

Idaho is one of only seven states in the country that doesnt have some sort of cooling-off or revolving-door restrictions, which bar or delay state employees or legislators from going to work for a company that does business with the state government.

As reported by the Idaho Capital Sun, Magellan of Idaho last year was awarded the $1.2 billion Idaho Behavioral Health Plan contract  Idahos largest state contract  to manage Idaho Medicaid mental health benefits.

Magellan won that contract, in part, based on scores it received from a team of evaluators. One of those evaluators was Idaho Department of Health and Welfare employee David Welsh, who was later hired to be Magellan of Idahos CEO.

Welsh, former Idaho Department of Health and Welfare deputy administrator for Medicaid benefits, evaluated bids for the contract and gave Magellans bid the second-highest score among the evaluators.

In addition, two other state employees from the Department of Health and Welfare were hired by Magellan, according to the Idaho Capital Sun.

We are not suggesting wrongdoing, but the appearance of impropriety or conflict of interest can create a lack of trust in state government.

And when youre talking about hundreds of millions of dollars at stake, the opportunity and temptation for wrongdoing are high.

States without cooling-off laws

Only Idaho, Illinois, Michigan, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and Wyoming do not have any sort of cooling off laws, according to a 2019 report from Public Citizen, a national nonprofit consumer advocacy organization advocating on behalf of the public in government affairs.

Several states have revolving door or cooling-off laws that restrict state employees from immediately going to work for private companies that have contracts or business dealings with the state government.

Permanent ban in some states

For example, California, New Mexico, New York, Mississippi and Texas impose a permanent ban on former state employees working on the same specific contracts or matters they were personally and substantially involved with while in public service, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

A permanent ban seems extreme to us, but it demonstrates how seriously some states take the issue.

Other states impose varying degrees of a cooling-off period.

Over a dozen states, including Missouri, North Carolina, Oregon, South Dakota and Texas (for certain officials), have a two-year cooling-off period restricting lobbying or working on the same matters as when in state government, according to the National Conference on State Legislatures.

That seems more reasonable to us, certainly more reasonable than no cooling-off period at all.

Shorter cooling-off periods

The most common cooling-off period is one year, which 24 states have for restricting lobbying activities by former state officials and employees, according to NCSL. This includes Alaska, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.

A few states, such as North Carolina, have a six-month cooling-off period.

Counterargument

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare told the Capital Sun that its beneficial for Idaho government employees to leave for private sector jobs because those employees have expertise in their field.

Further, it makes sense as the Department of Health and Welfare reduces its workforce, for some employees go into the private sector in the field in which they are experts.

Id rather have the smartest people working on the implementation, than the guy who wasnt involved in any way, shape or form, Idaho Association of Community Providers lobbyist David Lehman told the Capital Sun.

But we are concerned when those employees go to work for a company with which they were directly involved as a state employee and especially if they were directly involved in awarding a state contract worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

Poor track record for integrity

Idaho has a history of poor scores when it comes to state government integrity.

Idaho received a D- score in both 2012 and 2015 from the Center for Public Integrity, an independent, nonpartisan and nonprofit news organization that investigates systems and circumstances that contribute to inequality.

Idaho received poor scores for, among other things, ethics enforcement agencies (F, 49th in the country); lobbying disclosure (D+, 17th); and state civil service management (F, 36th), which includes oversight of state employees engaged in corruption.

There is little evidence things have changed since these studies.

Idaho should join the other 43 states in the nation and pass some sort of cooling-off legislation for legislators and state employees.

It doesnt have to be a permanent ban, but a modest period, such as a year or two would be a reasonable period. It would go a long way toward bolstering trust in state government.

Statesman editorials are the unsigned opinion of the Idaho Statesmans editorial board. Board members are opinion editor Scott McIntosh, opinion writer Bryan Clark, editor Chadd Cripe, newsroom editors Dana Oland and Jim Keyser and community members Greg Lanting, Terri Schorzman and Garry Wenske.
Its illegal to buy fireworks in Wyoming and bring them to Colorado

DENVER (KDVR)  Just a few miles north of the Colorado-Wyoming border lies a handful of firework warehouses, which are legal in Wyoming but banned in Colorado.

In Colorado, the average person cant possess, launch or transport most fireworks  and yes, this includes legally buying them in another state and bringing them to Colorado.

Colorado July 4th fireworks 2024 schedule

Its illegal to launch  or even have  fireworks, except for permissible fireworks, according to Colorado Revised Statute 24-33.5-2002.

According to Colorado Revised Statute 24-33.5-2005, the law makes it a petty offense to bring fireworks from a different state.

It shall be unlawful for any person not licensed as a display retailer, wholesaler, or exporter under the provisions of section 24-33.5-2004 to bring any fireworks including permissible fireworks into this state. Retail purchasers shall not purchase fireworks by mail order or receive any fireworks in Colorado by mail, parcel service, or other carrier. All fireworks sales and deliveries to retail purchasers in Colorado shall be made in Colorado and shall be conducted only by persons licensed pursuant to this part 20. C.R.S. 24-33.5-2005, Section 1

In Colorado, a petty offense can range from a couple of hundred dollars in fines to jail time.

Aurora temporarily lifts restrictions, allowing some use of fireworks

There are exceptions to this law, such as governing bodies granting permits for storing and discharging fireworks. Fireworks with less than 50 milligrams of explosives are largely permissible in Colorado  such as ground spinners, fountains, illuminating torches, dipped sticks and sparklers, trick noisemakers and tube devices. However, check your local ordinances to ensure theyre not prohibited because of a red flag warning or other fire warning.

While most fireworks are legal in border states like Wyoming, the hour and 30-minute drive from Denver to the border probably isnt worth it for a 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 FOX31 Denver.
President Joe Biden and his fellow Democrats frequently warn us of the threat to democracy posed by his predecessor and opponent, former President Donald Trump.

Yet there was Biden on Tuesday, swinging a bat at one of the most important principles of our system of governance. Again.

Biden announced that he was magically changing the rules again on illegal immigration. This time, hes allowing people who entered the country illegally from Mexico to receive work permits and perhaps eventually citizenship if theyve been here 10 years and are married to an American citizen.

The president was implementing a new law passed by Congress  ha! Almost had you, didnt I? No, he was making law up from whole cloth, as he has done to transfer student debt to the taxpayers and dismiss hundreds of thousands of asylum cases.

President Joe Biden, with lawmakers and border community members behind him, hosts a 12-year-anniversary event for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals on June 18 at the White House. (Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times)

Biden makes a mockery of separation of powers. He declares through executive action that the law is whatever he says. Theres a word for this: authoritarian, the very term Democrats love to apply to Trump.

To be fair, Biden is following his predecessors, including Trump, in issuing edicts and daring Congress or the courts to act. Congress is impotent, even deferential to the chief executive. Its not at all the way our system is supposed to work.

This one smells a little more than usual because its so nakedly political. The New York Times framed it as a clear tradeoff with Bidens recent action on border security; Tuesdays order is meant to mollify the far-left, open-border advocates that the earlier one angered.

And yet politically, Biden and his team are badly missing the point. The country is fed up with illegal immigration, having seen so much of it in the decade-plus since President Barack Obama took the original step toward redefining the law with his Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The poll numbers for this issue are worse for Biden than any other, except the economy.

In fact, polls suggest voters, including large numbers of Democrats and independents and, yes, Hispanic people, have shifted hard against illegal immigration. Most probably still want reasonable answers for those here illegally. They dont want families separated. But first, they demand a solution that provides for secure, orderly migration, mostly in much smaller numbers.

Instead, Biden just provided a huge incentive for the very behavior voters are angry about.

Its like a magnet, attracting people into the United States who know that if they wait long enough, President Biden will find some way to allow them to stay in the United States, even though they circumvent legal means of coming into the country, said Sen. John Cornyn, a Texas Republican.

Its a desperate political move, too. If Biden has to shore up the pro-amnesty portion of his base at the expense of independents with four months to go until the election, hes in big trouble.

Bidens announcement did shed some light on a nagging concern: Why is Trump always described as a threat to democracy rather than the Constitution? Its the latter that provides the protections for civil rights and against majority tyranny and establishes the checks and balances that ensure government by consensus, not force.

Liberals find that all too complicating. They constantly undermine the Constitution, inveighing against the Electoral College, the representation granted to states through the Senate, and any other provisions that stand in the way of the kind of sweeping action Biden took Tuesday. The Constitution limits federal power, and that just makes it too darn hard to remake society.

To be fair, Trump probably also finds the Constitutions roadblocks frustrating and unnecessary, to the extent hes ever thought it through. His threats to the sanctity of elections are real. But when it came to executing his presidential power, when he was reined in by courts, he largely deferred. Biden openly brags about circumventing the Supreme Court ruling that he cant unilaterally open the Treasury to pay off student loans.

Biden and his fellow liberals have spent decades shifting power to unelected bureaucrats on issues that should be far beyond the federal scope. Sadly, Congress often acquiesces rather than make difficult decisions for which voters might hold lawmakers accountable.

It all adds up to an atmosphere in which a president figures he can rewrite the law on just about anything, including immigration. How authoritarian.

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Embattled state GOP Chairman Don Tracy resigned Wednesday, ending his more than three-year run and furthering a chaotic period of leadership for a political organization bordering on irrelevancy just weeks before Republicans gather in nearby Milwaukee to renominate former President Donald Trump at their national convention.

Tracys resignation comes just two days after Illinois Republican leaders deposed Mark Shaw of Lake Forest as the state GOPs vice chair over controversies stemming from his unsuccessful effort at last months state convention to leverage his party position and role as a paid Trump adviser into the post of Republican National Committeeman from Illinois.

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In his resignation letter, Tracy said his decision was in part because he spent more time dealing with infighting among fellow Republicans than fighting Democrats.

When I took on this full-time volunteer job in February, 2021, I thought I would be spending most of my time fighting Democrats, helping elect Republicans, raising money to pay for more Party infrastructure, and advocating for Party unity. Unfortunately, however, I have had to spend far too much time dealing with intra party power struggles, and local intra party animosities that continued after primaries and County Chair elections, Tracy wrote in the letter.

In better days, Illinois Republicans came together after tough intraparty elections, Tracy continued. Now however, we have Republicans who would rather fight other Republicans than engage in the harder work of defeating incumbent Democrats by convincing swing voters to vote Republican.

Tracy said his resignation was effective upon the election of a new chairman or no later than July 19, which is the day after the Republican National Convention ends. He authorized a three-member committee to search for his replacement.

Tracy held the party chairmanship since February 2021. An attorney from Springfield and a co-owner of his familys wealthy food distribution business, he was narrowly elected by a moderate coalition of the Republican State Central Committee over Shaw to replace then-GOP Gov. Bruce Rauners handpicked chairman, Tim Schneider, who Shaw helped push out.

Tracy was chosen as the first state Republican chairman from outside the Chicago area since 1988. Though previously an unsuccessful candidate for lieutenant governor in 2014, he was viewed as coming from the donor class of the party rather than having a strong background in rank-and-file political organizing.

That image proved to be his downfall as the GOP suffered continued political losses that led Democrats to control all three branches of state government and saw its suburban base sharply eroded in the populous collar counties. Republicans have lost a sizable share of suburban residents as the party that once embraced fiscal conservatism and social moderation has shifted sharply to more social conservatism and moved the GOPs geographic base to less-populated rural downstate Illinois.

Tracy failed to find ways to harness the rural populism that was an outgrowth of Trumps dominance of the party. He also didnt help party candidates distance themselves from Trumps unpopularity in the suburbs, the region which has traditionally been the key for Republican success statewide.

Ultimately, it was the controversies that engulfed Shaw at the state GOP convention in Collinsville that led to Tracys resignation.

Shaw obtained an unauthorized delegate badge that entitled him to vote for himself for national committeeman, but he was twice rejected for the post by an overwhelming floor vote of delegates.

Urged to drop out of the national committeemans race, Shaw later acknowledged he threatened to kick the ass of another state central committee member. Shaw also faced criticism for handing out drink tickets promoting his own RNC candidacy to a hospitality room dedicated to pushing support for Trump.

With various Republican county chairs and state central committee members urging Tracy to remove Shaw from the vice chairmanship, Tracy took no public position and said he was powerless to force Shaw out. Critics said that made Tracy look weak and they also accused him of siding with Shaw by questioning whether he was being treated unfairly.

In his letter, Tracy said the sacking of Shaw was without due process and  portends a direction of the state party I am not comfortable with.

Tracys handling of the Shaw controversies reopened long-standing concerns about Tracys leadership abilities after having survived a no confidence test among state central committee members in May of last year.

In his letter, Tracy said his decision to resign had been made prior to a Tribune article detailing concerns from party insiders about his leadership.

But he erroneously wrote that no one from the Tribune called me about this article, which I did not learn of until (Wednesday) morning.

A state GOP spokesman said Tuesday that Tracy cant chat today to respond to a Tribune inquiry about party leadership moves.

Tracy also had faced criticism as an inadequate spokesman for the state party, often dodging reporters at GOP events and, when speaking to them, repeating national Republican talking points rather than addressing the substance of questions.

A similar pattern was evident at state central committee meetings, said one source familiar with the inner working of party matters. The source said Tracy showed up literally reading from a script and, if something happened off-script, he would have to take a break.

Even before Tracys announcement, efforts to replace him had been brewing. Two potential successors who have been frequently mentioned are Aaron Del Mar, a former Cook County GOP chair from Palatine, and state Sen. Jason Plummer of Edwardsville. Both are members of the state central committee.

In addition to Tracys resignation and Shaws ouster as vice chair, the state GOPs finance chairman, suburban businessman Vince Kolber, stepped down following last months state convention. Kolber finished third for national committeeman, a post that eventually went to Dean White, a businessman from St. Charles.
Immigrant families rejoice over Biden's expansive move toward citizenship, while some are left out

Antonio Valle, left, and wife, Brenda, stand for a photo after an interview with The Associated Press in Los Angeles, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Both were born in Mexico. Antonio Valle has been a U.S. citizen since 2001. Brenda Valle came to the U.S. with her family when she was 3 years old and will now be eligible for legal status under Biden's new plan. She is a DACA recipient and has worried every two years whether it would get renewed. Their sons are U.S. citizens. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

HOUSTON (AP)  Hundreds of thousands of immigrants had reason to rejoice when President Joe Biden unveiled a highly expansive plan to extend legal status to spouses of U.S. citizens but, inevitably, some were left out.

Claudia Zuniga, 35, married in 2017, or 10 years after her husband came to the United States. He moved to Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, after they wed, knowing that, by law, he had to live outside the country for years to gain legal status. Our lives took a 180-degree turn, she said.

Biden announced Tuesday that his administration will, in coming months, allow U.S. citizens' spouses without legal status to apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship without having to first depart the country for up to 10 years. About 500,000 immigrants may benefit, according to senior administration officials.

To qualify, an immigrant must have lived in the United States for 10 years and be married to a U.S. citizen, both as of Monday. Zuniga's husband is ineligible because he wasn't in the United States.

Imagine, it would be a dream come true, said Zuniga, who works part time in her father's transportation business in Houston. My husband could be with us. We could focus on the well-being of our children.

Every immigration benefit  even those as sweeping as Biden's election-year offer  has a cutoff date and other eligibility requirements. In September, the Democratic president expanded temporary status for nearly 500,000 Venezuelans who were living in the United States on July 31, 2023. Those who had arrived a day later were out of luck.

The Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, which has shielded from deportation hundreds of thousands of people who came to the United States as young children and is popularly known as DACA, required applicants be in the United States on June 15, 2012, and continuously for the previous five years.

About 1.1 million spouses who are in the country illegally are married to U.S. citizens, according to advocacy group FWD.us., meaning hundreds of thousands won't qualify because they were in the United States for less than 10 years.

Immigration advocates were generally thrilled with the scope of Tuesday's announcement, just as Biden's critics called it a horribly misguided giveaway.

Angelica Martinez, 36, wiped away tears as she sat next to her children, ages 14 and 6, and watched Biden's announcement at the Houston office of FIEL, an immigrant advocacy group. A U.S. citizen since 2013, she described a flood of emotions, including regret that her husband couldn't travel to Mexico when his mother died five years ago.

Sadness, joy all at the same time," said Martinez, whose husband arrived in Houston 18 years ago.

Brenda Valle of Los Angeles, whose husband has been a U.S. citizen since 2001 and, like her, was born in Mexico, renews her DACA permit every two years. We can start planning more long-term, for the future, instead of what we can do for the next two years, she said.

Magdalena Gutierrez of Chicago, who has been married to a U.S. citizen for 22 years and has three daughters who are U.S. citizens, said she had a little more hope after Bidens announcement. Gutierrez, 43, is eager to travel more across the United States without fearing an encounter with law enforcement that could lead to her being deported.

Allyson Batista, a retired Philadelphia teacher and U.S. citizen, who married her Brazilian husband 20 years ago, recalled being told by lawyer that he could leave the country for 10 years or remain in the shadows and wait for a change in the law.

Initially, when we got married, I was naive and thought, OK, but Im American. This isnt going to be a problem. Were going to fix this, Batista said. I learned very early on that we were facing a pretty dire circumstance and that there would be no way for us to move forward in an immigration process successfully.

The couple raised three children who are pursuing higher education. Batista is waiting for the details of how her husband can apply for a green card.

Im hopeful, Batista said. The next 60 days will really tell. But, obviously more than thrilled because every step forward is a step towards a final resolution for all kinds of immigrant families.

About 50,000 noncitizen children with parents who are married to a U.S. citizen could also potentially qualify, according to senior administration officials who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity. Biden also announced new regulations that will allow some DACA beneficiaries and other young immigrants to more easily qualify for long-established work visas.

___

This story has been corrected to show Batistas husband is Brazilian, not Mexican.

___

Gonzalez reported from McAllen, Texas. Associated Press writers Stefanie Dazio in Los Angeles; Melissa Perez Winder in Chicago; and Elliot Spagat in San Diego contributed.
Ashley Wilson, Jonathan Wingard and the couple's son Brian. Wingard has won the primary.

Greg McCortney  the Ada Republican tapped to be the next president pro tempore of the Oklahoma Senate  fell to Jonathan Wingard, who won the Republican primary in the Senate District 13 race.

As only Republican candidates entered the contest, the winner of Tuesday's primary will be sworn in as the district's new representative in the fall.

Wingard, 42, spent 19 years with the Oklahoma National Guard, being deployed in both Afghanistan and Kuwait. He grew up on his grandparents' dairy farm. He supports small government and 2nd amendment rights. Wingard has pledged to support term limits in congress. He has also said that education and diversifying the economy are key for Oklahoma.

More: 2024 Oklahoma Primary Election Results

Senate District 13 wraps around Ada, Stratford, Pauls Valley, Maysville and Lindsay, and runs all the way down to Sulphur and Roff.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma's Sen. McCortney falls to political newcomer Jonathan Wingard
(left to right) Former WCGOP Vice Chairman Alex Johnson and OK State Senator Julie Daniels watch as preliminary numbers are report for Senate District 29 race.

Washington County voters decisively rejected three so-called "grassroots" candidates in the June 18 Republican primary, maintaining the incumbents' positions at the capitol.

Senate District 29: Daniels retains seat

In the back room of the Crossing Second, surrounded by friends, family and supporters, State Senator Julie Daniels thanked everyone and talked about the power of campaign stands for "being for something, not against something."

Daniels retained her seat against challenger Wendi Stearman, securing 54% of the vote. Now term-limited after her reelection, Daniels has served eight years in office. Her seat in District 29 will be open in the 2028 election.

"I want to thank the voters of District 29," Daniels said. "I will continue to represent you conservatively and efficiently to improve the district and the state while working with everyone."

Stearman, a former Oklahoma State Legislator, lost the 2022 reelection bid against now State Representative House District 11 John Kane. Stearman didn't reply for comment.

State Senator Julie Daniels thanked her friends, family and supporters who gather at her watch party held at Crossing Second on June 18, 2024.

House District 10: Strom surges past McCarthy

Judd Strom defeated Chad McCarthy with 64% of the vote for House District 10. McCarthy is the first to challenge Strom since winning his seat in 2018 when he defeated incumbent Travis Dunlap.

"I'm ready to get back to work," Strom said. "I will continue to represent the people of District 10, people that want an effective, efficient government, as I am able. This is home, and my friends' and neighbors' lives and livelihoods are very important to me."

McCarthy offered a "Congratulations, Representative Strom," when asked to comment on the results.

(left to right) Oklahoma State Rep Judd Strom and challenger Chad McCarthy answer questions during a form held by the WCGOP on June 10, 2024.

County Commissioner District 2: Runoff scheduled

No candidate secured the required majority vote in the County Commissioner District 2 race. The top two candidates, Micheal Colaw and Corey Shivel will head to a runoff on August 27.

Colaw received 36% of the vote, Shivel garnered 38%, and Worley obtained 28%.

Speaking with one voice

Candidates McCarthy, Stearman and Worley, who hold leadership positions within the Washington County Republican Party (WCGOP), were unsuccessful in their state legislative and county seat bids.

Over the past year, the WCGOP leadership has focused on promoting Christian Nationalism rhetoric and hosting discussions on conspiracy theories, such as the "30x30 land grab," while targeting so-called "RINOs" (Republicans In Name Only) within county leadership.

The three candidates echoed similar ideas in their unified campaigns, which were centered on quoting the Oklahoma GOP platform. They often spoke on national issues such as securing borders and election integrity.

Campaign finance reports reveal significant donations and support from WCGOP leaders for the "grassroots" campaigns, all of which ultimately fell short.

WCGOP Chairman Larry Murray was elected to his current leadership role in 2023 on the stance that the county GOP should endorse specific Republican Candidates. Wendi Stearman's husband, Tom Stearman, is currently the Vice-Chairman of the WCGOP; he rose to power after the former Vice-Chairman was removed a move that raised objections from the State GOP.

Quinn Schipper, administrator of the Republican and Other Conservatives of Washington County group, was with Daniels to celebrate her victory.

"The Republican and Other Conservatives of Washington County have been committed to educating and informing the electorate," Schipper said. "Tonight, we are delighted to see the outcome and appreciate all who got out to let their voice and their vote be known."

The primary results reflect a strong preference among Washington County voters for established Republican incumbents over "grassroots" challengers with dissenting platforms.

This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Controversial 'grassroots' campaigns fall flat in GOP Primary
YANGON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- An event marking the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence was held at the China Cultural Center in Yangon on Wednesday.

The event was jointly organized by the China Foundation for Peace and Development, the China Cultural Center in Yangon, Yangon University of Foreign Languages and Myanmar Chinese Cooperation and Communication Center.

Qiao Li, counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar, said at the event that 70 years ago, Chinese and Myanmar leaders jointly advocated the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence with political wisdom and foresight, which has become the basic norms of modern international relations and continuously injected vitality into China-Myanmar friendship.

China and Myanmar have carried out pragmatic cooperation under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative and the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor and achieved fruitful results, she said.

China will continue to support bilateral civil groups to strengthen exchanges and pragmatic cooperation, and gather non-governmental forces to jointly build a China-Myanmar community with a shared future, she added.

Daw Than Than Nu, president of U Nu Daw Mya Yi Foundation and daughter of former Prime Minister U Nu, expressed her joy and appreciation for the achievements made by China through constantly deepened cooperation with countries including Myanmar under the Belt and Road Initiative.

She hopes that people from all countries around the world could embrace the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, and work together to build a peaceful and stable world.

More than 100 representatives from over 40 Chinese and Myanmar non-governmental organizations and enterprises, think tanks, media organizations and universities participated in the event. 
INDEPENDENCE, Mo.  Public workers in one metro city are looking over their shoulders as they serve.

City leaders in Independence are concerned about a series of dangerous incidents, where four public workers were targeted, having been on the receiving end of threats in most cases. One event saw a public parks worker run over by a group of people on dirt bikes.

Police searching for suspect after drive-by shooting in Overland Park

Independence City Manager Zach Walker told councilmembers on Monday the parks worker was doing his job, attempting to stop the bikers from riding their motorized bikes on the trails inside Rotary Park. Dirt bikes are not permitted inside public parks.

Walker said when that worker confronted the riders, he was headbutted and run over by the bike riders. Walker added that worker needed stitches at a nearby urgent care clinic.

We may not always like what the rules are, but theyre just trying to do their jobs in enforcing them. Theyre just doing a job serving the public. We may not always like what the rules are, but theyre just trying to do their jobs in enforcing them, Walker said on Monday.

On Tuesday, a city news release said police are investigating a second incident  a verbal assault where a private citizen used his car to block two community development workers at a job site. The release incidates a third incident happened in recent weeks, when an Independence Power and Light employee was shot at while trying to disconnect power service at a home.

3 VA officials suspended after stolen gun used in Northland murder-suicide

These are employees trying to do their job. We want to make sure we have respect for them. We can certainly disagree, but we can certainly do it in a polite, respectful way, Independence Mayor Rory Rowland said.

The whole city needs to come together and pray about everything thats going on. Thats what we need to do if we want to see change, Clinton Forbes, who just bought a house near Rotary Park, said.

City leaders have reached out to all four workers involved in the three incidents. The citys statement sent on Tuesday included this passage.

Each of these incidents gives us great pause; the safety and well-being of our city employees is paramount in every situation. We are having multiple, in-depth, thoughtful internal discussions about changing our protocols to keep our employees safe.

The citys statement doesnt include an update on the man who was run over by the dirt bikes. If you know more about these cases, please call the Independence Police Department at (816) 325-7300.

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 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Indiana Officer Saves Woman and 8-Year-Old Daughter from Drowning in River by Carrying Them His Back

My mentality is if I can change one persons life, then my whole career is worth it," the officer said after the rescue mission

Getty Mill Race Park in Columbus, Indiana

A police officer in Indiana saved a woman and her young daughter from drowning in a river on Saturday, June 15, per the Columbus Police Department Facebook press release.

Officer Andrew Plank rescued Charity Weis, 34, and her daughter in Columbus, Ind. after the Columbus Police Department was called around 1:42 p.m.

Plank found the mother and daughter at Mill Race Park two minutes after the emergency call, the police department said. He was then directed to a sandbar in the water, where he found the two staying afloat by holding onto a fallen tree. The woman shouted that she couldnt hold on for much longer.

Without hesitation, Officer Plank took off his body armor vest and duty belt and went into the water. Officer Plank swam out to the fallen tree and retrieved the child first, read the CPD press release. It said Plank then swam with the child on his back as he returned her to the river bank, before going back to help the woman.

After Planks rescue mission, Weis and her daughter emerged from the river safely and were evaluated by emergency medical services.

Getty Stock image of police car lights

Related: 7-Year-Old Saved from Drowning by 2 Young Boys, 12 and 8, in Michigan: Theyre My Heroes'

CPD said that two children had been playing on a sandbar in the river and ended up in the water. Their mother, Weis, then went into the river to rescue them, but she and her 8-year-old daughter got caught in the current.

A representative from the Columbus Police Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for more information on Wednesday.

The Columbus Police Department added in their statement that they encourage "anyone in or around a body of water to wear a personal floatation device. The rivers current can be deadly even for strong swimmers."

Getty Mill Race Park in Columbus, Indiana

Related: Texas Police Officers Reunite with Child They Saved Following Near-Fatal Pool Drowning

Weve been to many of these where the outcome is not as good, Plank told The Republic. I was just thinking get there, save them.

I did what anyone would do, said Plank.

Per The Republic, Plank has been part of the police force for 10 years and previously served in the Marine Corps. During his tenure with the Marines, he was taught rescue swimming, which included lessons on how to swim with or against the current and how to save people who may be drowning.

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.

My adrenaline was going pretty hard, and once we got on to the bank and medics had them, it was just this relief, he said. Im just so thankful that the police department gives us the training needed to go out here and save lives.

We see the worst of the worst, and what keeps me going is being able to save people, help people, and see the smiles on their faces after it happens, he said. My mentality is if I can change one persons life, then my whole career is worth it.



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Read the original article on People.
Informant says Matt Gaetz paid her for sex as she gives details to House Ethics Committee, report says

Informant says Matt Gaetz paid her for sex as she gives details to House Ethics Committee, report says

A witness has told the House Ethics Committee that Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz paid her for sex, a report alleges.

Investigators with the committee have conducted a number of interviews behind closed doors with women who were witnesses in the sex trafficking investigation conducted by the Department of Justice, according to ABC News.

The investigators have spoken to at least half a dozen women who are alleged to have attended parties also frequented by Gaetz. The women  some under subpoena  were reportedly paid by Joel Greenberg, who used to be Gaetzs close friend. In 2022, Greenberg was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison after he pleaded guilty to several charges that included sex trafficking a minor and introducing the minor to other men, the outlet reported.

Sources told ABC that during the interviews, some witnesses were shown Venmo payments that they are alleged to have received from Gaetz and asked if they were for sex.

A woman told the panel that a payment from Gaetz was for sex, and others said they were paid to go to parties also attended by Gaetz that included drugs and sex, according to the sources.

Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz speaks at The Peoples Convention, on June 15. A witness has told a House committee that Gaetz paid her for sex, according to a report. (EPA)

Gaetz has rejected all the allegations against him.

When reached for comment, a spokesperson for Gaetz referred to the congressmans Monday post on X, in which he slammed the committees investigation and put the blame on former speaker Kevin McCarthy, with whom he has long had a personal feud. Gaetz led the effort to oust McCarthy last year.

The House Ethics Committee has closed four probes into me, which emerged from lies intended solely to smear me, Gaetz wrote on Monday. Instead of working with me to ban Congressional stock trading, the Ethics Committee is now opening new frivolous investigations.

He added: They are doing this to avoid the obvious fact that every investigation into me ends the same way: my exoneration.

This is Soviet. Kevin McCarthy showed them the man, and they are now trying to find the crime, he continued. I work for Northwest Floridians who wont be swayed by this nonsense and McCarthy and his goons know it.

After an investigation that lasted years, the Department of Justice said last year that it would not bring charges against Gaetz. The House Ethics Committee has subpoenaed the department for information connected to its investigation into Gaetz but the DOJ has been reluctant to hand over its records, ABC reported.

The committee said on Tuesday that its looking into whether Gaetz tried to obstruct investigations, and also noted its dropping some parts of its investigation into him.

The panel said Gaetz has been the subject of an unusual amount of public reporting. It added that much of that reporting has been inaccurate.

Gaetz has rejected all the allegations against him even as the House Ethics Committee continues to investigate. He is seen here speaking outside Donald Trumps trial in Manhattan. (Getty Images)

Notwithstanding the difficulty in obtaining relevant information from Representative Gaetz and others, the Committee has spoken with more than a dozen witnesses, issued 25 subpoenas, and reviewed thousands of pages of documents in this matter, the panel said. Based on its review to date, the Committee has determined that certain of the allegations merit continued review.

During the course of its investigation, the Committee has also identified additional allegations that merit review, it added.

The panel said it would continue to look into allegations that Gaetz engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use.

The committee said it wouldnt continue to review claims that Gaetz may have shared inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, misused state identification records, converted campaign funds to personal use, and/or accepted a bribe or improper gratuity.
Inside the lonely bromance of Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un

Vladimir Putin landed in Pyongyang on Wednesday for two days of talks with Kim Jong-un - GAVRIIL GRIGOROV/SPUTNIK

It is easy to ridicule.

Once a member of the G8, Vladimir Putin is now reduced to making state visits to Kim Jong-un, the eccentric dictator of a hermit state shunned by all but his Chinese patrons.

The pair resemble a lonely bromance, quipped Dmytro Kuleba, the Ukrainian foreign minister.

But behind the scenes, Western diplomats  and spies  will not be laughing as they try to figure out how this friendship will impact security in Europe and the Pacific.

The two leaders signed a 'strategic partnership' that includes a mutual defence pact - KRISTINA KORMILITSYNA/SPUTNIK

Special attention will focus on the contents of the comprehensive strategic partnership, which Putin says includes a mutual defence clause.

Kim said it is strictly peace-loving and defensive in nature.

But North Korea is already sending Russia shells and missiles.

Could the defence clause be used as an excuse to expand that role? Could it even result in North Korean troops fighting on the front line in Ukraine?

That may sound far-fetched but we know Russia is already recruiting foreign fighters to replace heavy losses on the battlefield.

And does strategic partnership imply Russian assistance with North Koreas nuclear weapons programme?

There has been talk of assistance in space technology  a term that in the Cold War often served as a euphemism for intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Either move could have serious implications in Ukraine and dramatically alter the delicate balance of force on the Korean peninsula.

But if we have learnt anything over the past few years, it is that anything is possible.

South Korea has already publicly warned Putin not to go too far in wooing Kim.

Then there is the question of the Tumen river.

For much of its length, the Tumen marks the border between North Korea and China.

But for the last 15 miles before it reaches the sea, it lies between North Korea and Russia. A rusty railway bridge across it marks their only direct border crossing.

Kim drove Putin around in a "Russian Rolls-Royce" after their meeting - GAVRIIL GRIGOROV/SPUTNIK

When Putin met Xi Jinping in May, they agreed to look at ways to open that stretch of river to Chinese shipping.

It would be a big job  probably involving dredging and widening the river, and raising or entirely demolishing the bridge.

But if Putin and Kim give the green light, they could give China its first outlet to the Sea of Japan since Russia seized Vladivostok in the 1860s.

That has obvious security implications: Japanese media are already pondering how Tokyos already stretched naval forces would respond to Chinas very assertive coast guard appearing in yet another part of the western Pacific.

That feeds into a larger question about the balance of power in East Asia.

Russia has for decades resisted Chinese requests to open that last stretch of river, wary of surrendering control of its border to Beijing.

If it goes ahead, it will further confirm Putins dependence on President Xi.

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.
George Norcross III, right, and lawyer Michael Critchley speak to reporters in Trenton on June 17, 2024, after hearing Norcross has been indicted by the state Attorney General's Office. (Photo by Hal Brown for New Jersey Monitor)

The indictment unveiled Monday that accuses insurance executive and Democratic power broker George Norcross III of overseeing a criminal enterprise is replete with accusations of threats, intimidation, and political corruption that go on for 111 pages.

But at the heart of the charges filed by Attorney General Matt Platkins office are claims that Norcross  a Democratic kingmaker widely regarded as New Jerseys most powerful unelected person  conspired with his allies to leverage their control of Camden County government officials to steer redevelopment work to their preferred investors and punish those who did not fall in line.

While some details of the saga have previously emerged in press reports or through a gubernatorial task force convened to probe abuses of the states tax incentives, the indictment against Norcross and five of his allies presents new details about how prosecutors claim they used their political power for personal gain.

It centers around voluminous New Jersey tax incentive programs meant to steer investment to the states financially struggling cities and accuses Norcross and others of enriching themselves with taxpayer dollars while lying to the government.

Norcross, a former Democratic national committeeman who faces 13 counts in the racketeering indictment, has denied any wrongdoing and alleges the prosecution is politically motivated.

Whats being alleged here, its a wild story, a fanciful story woven together, a concocted criminal enterprise, said Kevin Marino, an attorney for one of the defendants. I dont see a single allegation here that rises to the level of criminal activity.

Triad1828 & 11 Cooper

In 2013, Norcross and allies sought to build on plots near Camdens waterfront as expanded tax incentives became available under a new law.

Parts of the law were written by Kevin Sheehan, an attorney at the Parker McCay firm  Norcrosss brother Philip, a co-defendant, is the CEO  who the indictment calls lawyer-1, and offered more generous awards with far fewer guardrails to projects in Camden than it called for elsewhere. But Norcross and his allies still ran into problems.

They did not own the land and lacked the rights to develop it, and Philadelphia-based developer Dranoff Properties had the right of first refusal for one lot and a view easement that would limit the height of construction in the other.

Norcross and allies sought an end to the easement so they could construct the Triad1828 Centre  the tallest building on Camdens waterfront, which now hosts Conner Strong & Buckelew, NFI, and the Michaels Organization  but met with resistance from Carl Dranoff, the developer whom the indictment refers to as developer-1.

Norcross is executive chairman of Conner Strong & Buckelew. NFI CEO Sidney Brown and Michaels Organization CEO John ODonnell have also been charged.

City officials, including then-Mayor Dana Redd  another co-defendant  then stopped returning the developers calls, and an offer followed, prosecutors claim. Dranoff Properties would receive $1.3 million in reimbursements and consulting fees plus $1 million to cede its development rights, its easement, and $18 million in state tax credits to Liberty Property Trust, the developer favored by Norcross, according to the indictment.

The offer included the promise of a push by Norcross allies to lobby the Camden Redevelopment Agency to issue permits that would lower the environmental remediation standards at a separate site the developer sought to redevelop, the indictment says. The firms played no legal role in that process.

The deal fell through the same day it was offered, and those in Norcrosss orbit turned to other methods, prosecutors claim.

I think we just do it. F**k em. F**k em. Just do it, Norcross said during a recorded conversation with his brother, according to the indictment.

The indictment alleges Norcross turned to two strategies: His team would have the Camden Redevelopment Agency challenge the easement in court, and they would challenge the developers character in public.

The court filing was an effort to get the easement thrown out under the New Jersey Eminent Domain Act, which allows governments to seize private property under certain circumstances that include just compensation for the property owner.

There is no evidence the redevelopment agency intended to follow the process set out by that law, which requires the condemning agency appraise the property to be seized and make a written offer that meets or exceeds its value before moving to condemn the building, prosecutors said.

The indictment says the developer feared the financial harms borne of Norcrosss control of Camden government and his ability to do businesses elsewhere in the future. He ceded his easement and sold his $18 million in tax credits and his development rights for $1.95 million in October 2016.

Prosecutors allege Norcross and his allies resorted to coercive tactics over a separate site some 16 months later, when they charged Dranoff was responsible for stalled redevelopment at Radio Lofts, a former Radio Corporation of America building that could not be redeveloped because the Camden Redevelopment Agency could not secure sufficient financing for environmental remediation.

Hes gonna come under some serious accusations from the City of Camden, which are gonna basically suggest that hes not a reputable person and hes done nothing but try to impede the progress of the city, Norcross said on a recorded conference call, according to the indictment. You can never trust him until you got a bat over his head.

Officials began deriding the developer after he sued the city, the redevelopment agency, and others in 2018 after Camden moved to end his development rights on the Radio Lofts site.

The city of Camden is taking action against those who have taken advantage of the city when it was down, then-Camden Mayor Frank Moran said when the city countersued Dranoff in 2018.

The developer settled that suit in 2023, agreeing to pay the city $3.3 million and cede redevelopment rights to the Radio Lofts site. He believed he was in the right, the indictment says, but had concerns over corruption in Camden which made him believe that he would not be treated fairly by the court system.

That accusation raised the hackles of Norcross attorney Michael Critchley, who likened them to Donald Trumps claims that his New York hush money conviction is the result of a corrupt judicial system.

Why would an officer of the court, meaning Platkin, the attorney general, put shame unnecessarily, unjustly, and salaciously, on the entire court system of Camden, and in particular the judge, Critchley told the New Jersey Monitor. This is just out of Trumps playbook.

Conner Strong & Buckelew, NFI, and the Michaels Organization won more than $240 million in tax credits for the Triad1828 Centre through the now-defunct GROW NJ tax credit program. The three firms have received at least $29 million of those tax credits, prosecutors said, much of which they sold.

The Michaels Organization has received roughly $3.5 million in tax credits for 11 Cooper, a residential project on the site to which the developer had the right of first refusal. Michaels sold those tax credits for roughly $4.3 million.

A Dranoff spokeswoman declined to comment.

L3 complex

The indictment alleges similar misconduct over the nonprofit Coopers Ferrys redevelopment of an office building Cooper University Health Care wanted for its own offices. Norcross is chairman of the Cooper health systems board.

Philip Norcross railed at top officials at Coopers Ferry over the project, saying it should be handed over to a private developer, the indictment claims. Prosecutors allege that within a day, he urged the nonprofit to partner with Ira Lubert, a Pennsylvania real estate mogul with financial ties to George Norcross whom the indictment calls Investor-1.

Coopers Ferry entered a non-disclosure agreement with Lubert but chose another developer, a decision that immediately drew Norcrosss ire, prosecutors say.

Two days later, on April 25, 2014, Philip Norcross, who held no formal role with the city or Coopers Ferry, told the nonprofit it was not allowed to use its chosen developers, a statement then-Coopers Ferry CEO Anthony Perno took as a threat, prosecutors allege.

In an email cited by the indictment, Perno called the two bids a false choice, saying Coopers Ferry would likely not be able to close a deal with its chosen developers given the opposition.

In the end, Coopers Ferry partnered with Norcross chosen developer, netted just $125,000 for its work on the project, and never received shares of future profits promised to it during negotiations, the indictment alleges.

The nonprofits agreement with its preferred developer would have seen it win 25% of future profits from the site. At the time of closing, the L3 site was appraised at roughly $54 million, tens of millions more than the $32.7 million Luberts partnership paid for it.

Cooper Health had applied for tax incentives to cover the costs of rent at the site a month earlier, though in its applications to the state Economic Development Authority, it left out that it planned to purchase an interest in L3, prosecutors say.

Cooper Health received an award of nearly $40 million just 28 days after filing its application and, four months thereafter, purchased a 49% stake in the site for about $2.5 million. Between 2015 and 2020, Cooper Health received more than $27.1 million in tax incentives, which it sold for about $25.1 million.

F**k em. F**k em. Just do it.

 George Norcross III, prosecutors allege

Prosecutors allege Norcross and others then sought to shield their role in the saga. Norcross, during a 2016 FBI interview, claimed he did not know anyone at Coopers Ferry, according to the indictment.

But Susan Bass Levin, who the indictment calls CC-1, joined the Cooper Ferrys board two years earlier. Bass Levin is CEO of the Cooper Foundation, the charitable arm of Cooper University Health Care.

In 2017, Norcross moved to oust Perno as he shifted officials through positions within his influence, prosecutors allege. Perno resigned at the urging of Bass Levin  losing a full year in severance  though his departure had less to do with his job performance than Norcrosss view of his performance, prosecutors claimed.

If he refused to quit, officials would just invent a reason to remove him for cause and thereby deny him severance, Bass Levin said, according to the indictment.

The indictment recounts a conversation about Norcross that prosecutors claim Bass Levin had with Perno.

You dont want that fight. Believe me when I tell you. If you dont think that he cant get to anybody he wants to, youre kidding yourself, Bass Levin said.

Marino, the attorney representing Philip Norcross, said that exchange is an example of many in the indictment that prove no criminal activity and were included to create the appearance that George Norcross and his allies acted improperly.

One partys telling another party that George Norcross can get anywhere and do anything. What is that doing in an indictment? Marino said. The reason this indictment runs to 111 pages is it takes a lot of work to construct what actually happened in such a way as to make it look like it violates the law. It doesnt.

The post Inside the wild charges against Dem power broker George Norcross appeared first on New Jersey Monitor.
Turkish Airlines recently launched its 14th destination in the U.S. with a direct route to Denver, but the expansion wont stop there  Charlotte is in the carriers sights.

Turkish Airlines Chairman Ahmet Bolat told Travel Weekly in an interview that its added Charlotte Douglas International Airport to its wish list of future U.S. destinations, alongside Minneapolis, Philadelphia and Orlando, Florida.

ALSO READ: New technology could ease travel troubles at Charlotte Douglas Airport

Bolat said the airline wants to have 20 U.S. destinations, but he didnt specify a timeline.

Read more here.

VIDEO: New technology could ease travel troubles at Charlotte Douglas Airport








The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) said on June 19 that it had exposed an alleged criminal scheme to launder the 21 million euros ($22.5 million) allegedly received as a bribe by Roman Nasirov, then head of the State Fiscal Service, in 2015-2016.

An associate of Nasirov and an advisor to the ex-official have been charged in the money laundering case, the NABU reported.

According to the news site Liga.net's sources, Nasirov's associate is Oleksandr Hlimbovskyi, owner of Altis, a Ukrainian construction group. His daughter, Kateryna Hlimbovska, is Roman Nasirov's wife and a member of the Kyiv City Council.

Ukrainian businessman Oleh Bakhmatyuk, the owner of the agribusiness group Ukrlandfarming, was charged in 2022 with giving the 21 million euro bribe to Nasirov in exchange for illegal value added tax refunds. The former head of the State Fiscal Service was charged with receiving the bribe.

From December 2015 to March 2016, the Nasirov associate identified by Liga.net as Hlimbovskyi helped Nasirov to transfer part of a bribe of more than 13 million euros ($14 million) to the accounts of a company in the British Virgin Islands, the NABU reported.

From May 2017 to April 2018, the associate laundered the entire amount of the bribe and spent it on purchasing a residential and office complex with a parking lot in the center of Kyiv, according to the NABU.

By the end of 2023, the NABU and the SAPO seized 81 properties and more than Hr 30 million ($740,000), which the associate allegedly acquired with laundered funds.

The other part of the bribe, 7.9 million euros ($8.5 million), which was transferred to the accounts of another company in the British Virgin Islands, was laundered by the top official's adviser, the NABU reported.

Nasirov is also on trial in a separate abuse of power case. In 2017, he was charged with illegally allowing participants of an alleged corrupt scheme at gas producer Ukrgazvydobuvannya to delay tax payments, causing losses to the state of Hr 2 billion ($74 million.)

Nasirov denies all accusations of wrongdoing.

Read also: Oleg Sukhov: US should sanction these 2 symbols of Ukraines corruption

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
 Copyright 2024, Des Moines Register and Tribune Co.

The vast majority of Iowans, regardless of which party they belong to or which candidate they support, disagree that political violence is sometimes an acceptable response to an election result.

A sizable majority also say they are confident that American democracy will hold  although almost a third say they believe democracy will fail.

The results of the new Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll come ahead of the 2024 presidential election, which will be a rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

Biden is seeking to make the election a referendum on democracy, accusing Trump of a disregard for the Constitution and democratic norms as the former president faces criminal prosecution for attempting to overturn the 2020 election.

Trump has said were not going to have a country anymore if he loses the election.

The poll asked Iowans if they agree or disagree with the statement: Every once in a while, political violence is an acceptable response to an election result.

Iowans disagree by more than a 7-to-1 margin, with 86% disagreeing, 12% agreeing and 2% not sure.

Large majorities across the political spectrum say they disagree that violence is an acceptable response to an election result, including 90% of Democrats, 85% of political independents and 83% of Republicans.

The poll of 806 Iowans was conducted June 9-14 by Selzer & Co. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points.

Mary Dunn, a 67-year-old poll respondent from Atlantic and a political independent, said she believes violence is never the answer.

Im Ringo, man. Peace and love, she said, referring to the former Beatles drummer. Theres got to be a different answer to this.

Supporters of then-President Donald Trump clash with the U.S. Capitol police during a riot at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C.

Republican poll respondent: Jan. 6 riot totally unacceptable

The 86% who dont believe political violence is acceptable in response to an election includes 68% who strongly disagree and another 18% who mostly disagree.

I just think there ought to be ways to work it out, said Dunn, who works as a city clerk. And if not, then you need to walk away from the table and bring in someone who can.

She said violent events such as the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the building, assaulting police officers and forcing their way inside to disrupt congressional vote certification, show that violence isnt a solution.

What did they accomplish? she said. They only made it worse. They only made themselves look ridiculous.

The U.S. Department of Justice said as of January 2024 it had charged more than 1,265 people with crimes related to the U.S. Capitol riot. The department said about 140 police officers were assaulted during the riot.

More than 450 people were charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding officers, including 123 who have been charged with using a deadly or dangerous weapon or seriously injuring an officer.

Donald Trump supporters attempt to force their way through a police barricade in front of the U.S. Capital on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C. (Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

The Justice Department says 718 people had pleaded guilty to a variety of charges as of January 2024. Of those, 213 pleaded guilty to felonies, including 89 people who pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement officers.

Another 171 people have been found guilty at trial, including 76 who were found guilty of felonies for assaulting, resisting or impeding officers and/or obstructing officers during a civil disorder.

Four people in the crowd at the riot died that day, including Air Force veteran Ashli Babbit, who was shot by Capitol Police. Multiple police officers died by suicide in the days and months following the riot.

Corbin Jones, a 23-year-old poll respondent from Nevada, said he strongly disagrees with political violence. He called the Jan. 6 Capitol riot totally unacceptable.

That kind of stuff can be dealt with legally, said Jones, a Republican who is considering voting for Trump or independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for president. I mean, as we saw when the Capitol got stormed, that doesnt solve very much. It makes things a lot worse for a lot of people.

12% see political violence as an acceptable response to an election

Eight percent of Iowans say they mostly agree that political violence is acceptable following an election, while just 4% say they strongly agree that violence is acceptable.

Among those who voted for Trump in the 2020 election, 15% agree political violence is acceptable compared with 83% who disagree.

Among Bidens 2020 voters, 7% agree and 92% disagree. For those who didnt vote in the 2020 election, 16% agree and 79% disagree.

Pro-Trump protesters gather in front of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C.

Adam Heiden, a 43-year-old entrepreneur from Schleswig, said he strongly agrees that political violence is sometimes acceptable.

I think we should have a revolution, said Heiden, who plans to vote for Trump in November.

Heiden said he doesnt believe the former president lost the 2020 election. I just dont have any faith in the current system.

He said he hopes there isnt violence around the election this year but said weve got to do something.

Thats how the country was founded, right? he said. Thats how I understand it, I guess. We were tired of being taxed too much, and so we fought for our country. Im not saying I want to do that, but at some point, weve got to do something.

Marty Barclay, a 54-year-old retired poll respondent from Audubon, also said violence is sometimes an acceptable response to an election.

If the elections are held fairly then no, there should be no violence, he said. But if it can be proven, which was proven in the 2020 election, then yes, people need to speak up and hold the government and other people accountable.

No proof has been found that the 2020 election was rigged, with even Trumps administration determining there was no widespread fraud that would have affected the outcome.

Trumps campaign brought more than 60 court cases challenging the results of the 2020 election, many of them heard by Trump-appointed judges, and lost all but one.

But Barclay said anybody with half a brain cell that actually thinks for themselves does not believe those cases were fairly decided.

Some national polls have found greater support for political violence. A PBS Newshour/NPR/Marist national poll taken in March found 20% of U.S. adults agreed that Americans have to resort to violence to get the country back on track, while 79% disagreed.

A Public Religion Research Institute and Brookings Institution national poll taken in October 2023 found that 23% of Americans agreed that because things have gotten so far off track, true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country.

In the new Iowa Poll, 77% of respondents say the nation is on the wrong track, compared with 17% who believe its on the right track, and 6% who arent sure.

Most Iowans confident that American democracy will hold

Overall, a majority of Iowans (61%) are confident that democracy will hold, while 31% are confident it will fail.

Just 15% of Iowans describe themselves as very confident democracy will hold, while 46% say they are mostly confident it will hold.

Slightly less than a quarter of Iowans (24%) say they are mostly confident democracy will fail, and 8% are very confident it will fail.

Democrats are most likely to say they believe American democracy will hold, at 74%, compared with 20% who believe democracy will fail. Fifty-nine percent of independents say democracy will hold, while 36% say it will fail.

And 58% of Republicans say democracy will hold, compared with 34% who say it will fail.

Pat Ikan, an 80-year-old poll respondent from Solon, described herself as a positive person and said shes mostly confident democracy will hold. The Democrat and retired teacher tied the issue to Trump losing the election in November.

I think that negative thinking, I dont have any time for it, she said. And thats why I have positive thoughts that our democracy will hold, people will do the right thing and not vote for Trump.

Jones, the Republican truck driver from Nevada, said hes mostly confident that democracy will fail.

The people dont really seem to stand together as one like they used to, he said. It seems like everyone is against each other in some way.

He said people are too focused on their own political parties and not the fact that were all Americans at the end of the day.

The people need to come together and realize that were all in this together and we all need to fight as a country, not as individuals, he said. We need to unite. I mean, its in the name. United States of America. We need to be united.

Stephen Gruber-Miller covers the Iowa Statehouse and politics for the Register. He can be reached by email at sgrubermil@registermedia.com or by phone at 515-284-8169. Follow him on Twitter at @sgrubermiller.

About the Iowa Poll

The Iowa Poll, conducted June 9-14, 2024, for The Des Moines Register and Mediacom by Selzer & Co. of Des Moines, is based on telephone interviews with 806 Iowans ages 18 or older. Interviewers with Quantel Research contacted households with randomly selected landline and cell phone numbers supplied by Dynata. Interviews were administered in English. Responses were adjusted by age, sex and congressional district to reflect the general population based on recent American Community Survey estimates.

Questions based on the sample of 806 Iowa adults have a maximum margin of error of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points. This means that if this survey were repeated using the same questions and the same methodology, 19 times out of 20, the findings would not vary from the true population value by more than plus or minus 3.5 percentage points. Results based on smaller samples of respondents  such as by gender or age  have a larger margin of error.

Republishing the copyright Iowa Poll without credit and, on digital platforms, links to originating content on The Des Moines Register and Mediacom is prohibited.

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This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa Poll: Most oppose political violence, say democracy will hold
Fatime Letifova

The emergence of new diseases is also related to climate change.

According to Azernews, this was said by the representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Azerbaijan, Hande Harmanci, in a statement to journalists within the framework of the "Forecasting Healthy Futures" Global Summit held in Baku before the COP29.

She said that the emergence of new diseases is also related to the lack of knowledge and unpredictability.

"Healthcare workers do not have the necessary knowledge about this. However, the issue is quite serious and real. People should understand that they can solve this problem."
MOSCOW, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Wednesday signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement during Russian President Vladimir Putin's state visit to Pyongyang, RIA Novosti news agency reported.

During talks with the DPRK's top leader Kim Jong Un, Putin said the new fundamental document "will form the basis for long-term relations between the two countries," said the report.

Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said earlier that the new agreement would outline future cooperation prospects considering recent developments in bilateral relations, especially in the economic and security sectors. 
FILE - Prominent Iranian human rights activist Narges Mohammadi attends a meeting on women's rights in Tehran, Iran, on Aug. 27, 2007. Iran's imprisoned Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi has been sentenced to another year in prison over her activism, her lawyer said Wednesday. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Iran's imprisoned Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Narges Mohammadi, has been sentenced to another year in prison over her activism, her lawyer said Wednesday.

Mostafa Nili, Mohammadis lawyer, told The Associated Press that his client was convicted on a charge of making propaganda against the system. Nili said the sentence came after Mohammadi urged voters to boycott Iran's recent parliamentary election, sent letters to lawmakers in Europe and made comments regarding torture and sexual assault suffered by another Iranian journalist and political activist.

Mohammadi is being held at Iran's notorious Evin Prison, which houses political prisoners and those with Western ties. She already had been serving a 30-month sentence, to which 15 more months were added in January. Iran's government has not acknowledged her additional sentencing.

The latest verdict reflects the Iranian theocracys anger that she was awarded the Nobel prize last October for years of activism despite a decadeslong government campaign targeting her.

Mohammadi is the 19th woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize and the second Iranian woman after human rights activist Shirin Ebadi in 2003. Mohammadi, 52, has kept up her activism despite numerous arrests by Iranian authorities and years behind bars.

In November, Mohammadi went on a hunger strike over being blocked along with other inmates from getting medical care and to protest the countrys mandatory headscarves for women.

Mohammadi was a leading light for nationwide, women-led protests sparked by the death last year of a 22-year-old woman in police custody that have grown into one of the most intense challenges to Irans theocratic government. That woman, Mahsa Amini, had been detained for allegedly not wearing her headscarf to the liking of authorities.

For observant Muslim women, the head covering is a sign of piety before God and modesty in front of men outside their families. In Iran, the hijab  and the all-encompassing black chador worn by some  has long been a political symbol as well, particularly after becoming mandatory in the years following the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

While women in Iran hold jobs, academic positions and even government appointments, their lives are tightly controlled, in part by laws like the mandatory hijab. Iran and neighboring Taliban-ruled Afghanistan are the only countries to mandate the headscarves. Since Aminis death, however, more women are choosing not to wear hijab despite an increasing campaign by authorities targeting them and businesses serving them.
The St. Mary entrance to Glacier National Park, which borders the Blackfeet Nation, remained closed during the summer of 2020 as Blackfeet officials implemented strict measures in an effort to keep covid-19 off the reservation. (Aaron Bolton for KHN)

The Milk River Project, which is part of a system that delivers drinking water to 18,000 people and more than 700 farms, will shut down early this year following the breach of 110-year-old pipes near Baab.

Christopher Gomer with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation said Tuesday the irrigators along the Hi-Line will have about 30 days of water left from Frenso and Nelson reservoir storage but after that will have an early shutdown this year.

Depending on where we align with the fix, will point us in the direction of what future impacts will be, Gomer said.

On Monday both of the St. Mary river siphon barrels failed, both 90-inch riveted steel barrels built between 1912 and 1926, with massive amounts of water gushing out. The Blackfeet Tribe closed Camp Nine Road to near the Hooks Hideaway Motel in Babb, with exceptions for residents, and emergency personnel and prohibiting water recreation until June 24, according to the Blackfeet Tribes Facebook page.

Gomer told the Daily Montanan engineers are still assessing the damage and have yet to determine whether there can be a short-term fix, like repairing the less damaged barrel, or completely replacing both. He said this assessment could take anywhere from days to weeks. He said how quickly they can get materials is the biggest unknown right now.

We will have a large engineering team on site next Tuesday and hopefully, within a couple of days to a week after that, well have some idea of which direction were headed, he said.

The bureau said in a press release Monday the breach caused local flooding and erosion, with some areas resulting in washout areas estimated to be 30 to 50 feet deep. The department said while water was diverted back to the St. Mary River, flows are expected to continue for as long as 24 to 36 hours while the canal drains.

Since 1915 the St. Mary Canal has diverted water from the St. Mary River to the North Fork of the Milk River, the release said, and sends water to 120,000 acres of irrigated land and 14,000 municipal users.

Top political leaders in Montana, including Gov. Greg Gianforte, Sen. Jon Tester, Rep. Matt Rosendale and Rep. Ryan Zinke all posted on social media to say they are keeping tabs on the situation.

The post Irrigators along Hi-Line likely to close season early due to St. Mary breach appeared first on Daily Montanan.
The formal loss of the wartime Cabinet this week revealed how polarized Israel has become over the war in Gaza, with a once-united coalition now battling over the conflicts direction, the return of hostages and a growing threat from Hezbollah.

The exit of opposition leader Benny Gantz from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus Cabinet leaves the Israeli leader relying more on his far-right party allies, which could complicate efforts to secure a deal to release hostages and reach a cease-fire.

Tony Schiena, the CEO of global defense intelligence company MOSAIC, said a cease-fire and hostage release deal is less likely without the moderating influence of Gantz, adding that Netanyahu may be more emboldened to take aggressive action in Gaza.

Schiena pointed to Netanyahus allies, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who recently protested the Israeli military conducting daytime tactical pauses to facilitate more humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The fact that they criticized [the pauses] is indicative of where this would go now, with [Netanyahu] being more emboldened, he said. It gives him a chance to reassert his power.

Around 120 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, though it is unclear how many are alive and being held by Hamas.

While Israel claims it has killed thousands of Hamas fighters, the militant group has continued to resurge in areas that Israel has previously cleared out. The war is reaching an inflection point after nearly nine months, as Israeli troops fight against the last remaining Hamas battalions in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. But Israeli officials have said the conflict could last the rest of the year.

Discontent in Israel with the war has grown, with protesters coming out in droves to voice their frustration, including a Monday night demonstration near Netanyahus house in Jerusalem.

Frustrated Israeli protesters have called for new elections, something Gantz and his allies have also pushed for. But Netanyahu has rejected those calls, saying it would be nothing but a distraction from the war.

Alp Sevimlisoy, a millennium fellow at the Atlantic Council, said an election is looming in Israel as voters seek alternative options to address the war.

Even if Benny Gantz and many others are supportive of the war in general, he said, there is a desire by many to start to prepare, at least by way of discourse, an alternate roadmap for the war.

Israel is facing growing pressure internationally to end the war, with Gaza falling deeper into a humanitarian crisis. More than 37,000 people have died in Gaza, and Palestinians lack access to basic necessities like food and water.

The International Court of Justice, the United Nationss top court that is hearing an accusation of genocide against Israel for its war in Gaza, has called on Israel to halt its offensive in Rafah; and the independent International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, along with top Hamas officials, for war crimes related to the Gaza conflict.

The wartime Cabinet had projected a sense of unity between the three members: Gantz, Netanyahu and Gallant.

It had also allowed opposing figures like Netanyahu and Gantz to balance decisionmaking over the conflicts in Gaza and in the north at the border with Lebanon, where the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant and political group continues to fire rockets and artillery at Israel.

Michael Makovsky, president and CEO of the Jewish Institute for National Security of America, said the wartime Cabinet was better for the country.

Israels natural divisiveness has been coming back for months now, and this will likely only make it worse, he said. Its unfortunate because they also need to resolve how theyre going to deal with Gaza.

Political pressure is likely to grow on Netanyahu now that Gantz is no longer part of the wartime policy process.

Nimrod Goren, a senior Israel fellow at the Middle East Institute, said the sense of emergency and the need to unite had dissolved along with the Cabinet, and that Gantz really gave it a chance and could not succeed in partnership with Netanyahu.

Goren predicted that some Israelis would push for new leadership without Netanyahu as frustration with the war mounts.

People are fed up with the current situation, he said. Hostages are not coming back. Generally speaking, more soldiers are being killed. The situation in the south and north continues. The [war] is dragging on and its not clear what the strategic objective is.

Gantz, in a televised statement announcing his resignation earlier this month, slammed Netanyahu for preventing Israel from moving forward to a real victory.

In May, Gantz had issued an ultimatum to Netanyahu, saying he would resign unless the prime minister released plans to return the tens of thousands of displaced Israelis from the border with Lebanon; the release of hostages and the elimination of Hamas; a path to normalizing ties with Saudi Arabia, and the establishment of a government in Gaza.

Along with Gantz, Gallant has also expressed public concerns about Netanyahus plan for a post-war Gaza and has sparred with the prime minister over the path to destroying Hamas.

Netanyahu has only released a vague outline of his post-war plan, which includes Israel holding indefinite security control over Gaza and of Palestinians not linked to the militant group Hamas governing the coastal territory.

Israels struggle to address the conflict with Hezbollah is becoming a deeper issue as well. Israel wants to return some 80,000 people who have fled the fighting at the Lebanon border.

Gallant has advocated for destroying Hezbollah, but the U.S. and other allies have tried to defuse tensions through diplomacy and are warning Israel against escalation. Netanyahu does not appear to be open to the idea of attacking Lebanon, the site of a previous and costly war between Israel and Hezbollah in 2006.

With Gantz gone, however, Netanyahu could be more susceptible to Gallant and other far-right allies like Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, who want to go to full-out war with Hezbollah.

Sevimlisoy, of the Atlantic Council, said Netanyahu has shifted himself to the center on the Lebanon issue but added that he expects the Israeli leader to soon tackle many of the military objectives that have been unresolved, including Hezbollah.

We will likely see an IDF response into Lebanon, he said, referring to the Israel Defense Forces, because Israel seeks to resolve aspects that went unresolved in the last conflict.

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Israel may have violated laws of war in Gaza, UN rights office says

By Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber and Emma Farge

GENEVA (Reuters) -Israeli forces may have repeatedly violated the laws of war and failed to distinguish between civilians and fighters in the Gaza conflict, the U.N. human rights office said on Wednesday.

Separately, the head of a U.N. inquiry accused the Israeli military of carrying out an "extermination" of Palestinians.

In a report on six deadly Israeli attacks, the U.N. human rights office (OHCHR) said Israeli forces "may have systematically violated the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions in attack".

"The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimise to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign," U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said.

Israel's permanent mission to the United Nations in Geneva characterised the analysis as "factually, legally, and methodologically flawed". "Since the OHCHR has, at best, a partial factual picture, any attempt to reach legal conclusions is inherently flawed," it said.

In a separate meeting of the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, the head of a U.N. Commission of Inquiry, Navi Pillay, said perpetrators of abuses in the conflict must be brought to account.

She repeated findings from a report published last week that both Hamas militants and Israel have committed war crimes but said that Israel alone was responsible for the most serious abuses under international law known as "crimes against humanity".

She said the scale of Palestinian civilian losses amounted to "extermination".

"We found that the immense numbers of civilian casualties in Gaza and widespread destruction of civilian objects and infrastructure were the inevitable result of an intentional strategy to cause maximum damage," Pillay, a former U.N. rights chief and South African judge, told the meeting.

Israel, which does not typically cooperate with the inquiry and alleges an anti-Israel bias, chose the mother of a hostage to speak on its behalf and criticised the report on the grounds that it did not give due attention to hostages taken by Hamas on Oct. 7.

"We can do better for them. The hostages need us," Meirav Gonen, the mother of 23-year-old hostage Romi Gonen, said in a tearful appeal.

HEAVY WEAPONRY

Israel's air and ground offensive has killed more than 37,400 people in the Hamas-ruled Palestinian territory, according to health authorities there.

Israel launched its assault after Hamas fighters stormed across the border into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing around 1,200 people and taking more than 250 people hostage, according to Israeli tallies.

The U.N. rights office report details six incidents that took place between Oct. 7 and Dec. 2, in which it was able to assess the kinds of weapons, the means and the methods used in these attacks.

"We felt that it was important to get this report out now, especially because in the case of some of these attacks, some eight months have passed, and we are yet to see credible and transparent investigations," said Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the U.N. human rights office.

She added that in the absence of transparent investigations, there would be "a need for international action in this regard".

Pillay also condemned Israel's military methods in Gaza, saying the use of heavy weapons in densely populated areas "constitutes an intentional and direct attack on the civilian population".

Commissioner Chris Sidoti later told reporters that its findings, which are being shared with the International Criminal Court, showed that Israel was "one of the most criminal armies in the world."

He said the inquiry, which aims to investigate the treatment of hostages, as well as that of thousands of Palestinian detainees in Israeli jails, had so far been hindered by Israel.

"Far from having cooperation, what we have encountered is obstruction," he said.

(Reporting by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber and Emma Farge; Editing by Howard Goller and Christina Fincher)
The leader of Lebanese militant group Hezbollah threatened Wednesday to target the European island of Cyprus if war breaks out between Israel and Lebanon.

Cyprus will be part of this war too if it opens its airports and bases to Israeli forces, Hassan Nasrallah said in a televised address that came just a day after Israel warned the powerful Iran-backed militant group that the prospect of all-out war was getting very close.

The comments by the Hezbollah leader are the first time he has threatened Cyprus, a member of the European Union that lies in the Mediterranean sea, roughly 125 miles (200 kilometers) from Lebanon, and which has held joint military exercises with Israel since 2014 and as recently as last year.

Nasrallahs threat came as part of a fiery response to Israels warning that saw him boast of his groups growing capabilities and threaten to shake the pillars of Israel if a war were to be imposed on Lebanon.

Tensions between Hezbollah and Israel have been rising since the October 7 Hamas attacks and the ensuing military campaign by the Israel Defense Forces in Gaza. In recent weeks, the intensity of cross-border attacks between the two has increased, raising concerns over the prospect of a full-blown war.

Hassan Nasrallah addresses his supporters at an Ashura ceremony in Beirut's southern suburbs, Lebanon, on October 23, 2015. - Khalil Hassan/Reuters/File

Those prospects took a turn for the worse Tuesday, when Hezbollah flaunted a 9-minute video filmed by a drone showing civilian and military locations in and around one of Israels largest cities, Haifa. The video prompted Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz to warn of an all-out war in which Hezbollah will be destroyed, and Lebanon severely beaten.

On Wednesday, Nassrallah celebrated the video as evidence of its growing ability to gather intelligence.

The enemy knows that no place in the entire (state) is safe from our missiles, and it wont be arbitrary. Everything will be deliberately targeted, Nasrallah said in his speech.

We have long hours of footage of Haifa, of the outskirts of Haifa, and what comes after Haifa, and after after Haifa, Nasrallah said, in an apparent reference to a Hezbollah slogan from the 2006 war with Israel, when the groups rockets hit Haifa for the first time.

In response to the threat by Nasrallah, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides said the island was in no way involved in the war conflicts.

The Republic of Cyprus is not part of the problem. The Republic of Cyprus is part of the solution, Christodoulides said. And our role in this, as demonstrated, for example, through the humanitarian corridor, is recognized not only by the Arab world but by the international community as a whole.

What the drone footage shows

Parts of the Hezbollah footage, filmed in the daytime, claimed to show Krayot, a cluster of highly populated residential cities north of the Israeli city of Haifa and 28 km (17 miles) south of the Lebanese border, along with malls and high rises.

Other parts claimed to show a military complex near Haifa belonging to Israeli weapons manufacturer Rafael  including Iron Dome batteries, missile storage sites and radar sites  and military boats, ships and oil storage depots in the port of Haifa.

CNN analysis has geolocated the video to a number of locations around Haifa. Those locations include a number of sensitive areas, including at least two military installations: a base in northern Haifa and the port of Haifa. The drone also flew over the oil tanks that sit north of Haifa, the Haifa airport and several residential areas.

CNN also analyzed the shadows in the videos, which indicate the drone mission over Haifa lasted multiple hours, or took place over multiple days. The analysis shows parts of the video have been sped up.

Weapons expert Wim Zwijnenburg, project leader for humanitarian disarmament at the Dutch peace organization PAX, told CNN that a drone visible in the footage appears to be an Iranian-origin model of a Qasaf-2k, possibly manufactured locally.

The Haifa Port area is seen in the video released by Hezbollah. - AlMayadeenNews

Psychological terror

The mayor of Haifa, Yona Yahav, has described the video as psychological terror and demanded a protection plan for his city, criticizing IDF commanders for not having visited Haifa since the October 7 Hamas attack.

I demand that the government present a plan for the massive defense of Haifa and find a military solution to eliminate the threat posed from the north, Yahav told Israeli radio station Reshet Bet.

Hezbollah has claimed the video was the first episode, suggesting more videos would surface from deep inside Israeli territory.

A Hezbollah lawmaker in the Lebanese parliament who referenced the video in a social media post has also suggested more is to come.

This is what the party [Hezbollah] announced and you saw, but what is hidden is greater and greater and greater! Haifa and beyond, beyond, and beyond Haifa, Ibrahim Mousawi said in the post.

His message appears to be a reference to a phrase coined by Nasrallah during the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war, when he said the militant group would fire rockets at Haifa and beyond Haifa.

However, Israeli government spokesman David Mencer called the drone video the usual mischief making propaganda and said we know precisely how to deal with [Hezbollah] one way or the other  diplomatically or through military means.

Israeli military increasing readiness

Israel has been preparing for the possibility that diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities with Hezbollah could fail. The release of the footage comes as Israels military says it has approved and validated operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon and made decisions on increasing the readiness of troops in the field.

The plans were approved by the commanding officer of the Northern Command and the head of the Operations Directorate during a joint situational assessment to prepare for the continuation of combat, the IDF said in a statement.

The approval of the operational plans does not mean a war between Israel and Hezbollah is imminent  but it does signal that Israel intends to be ready for such a scenario.

In response to the Hezbollah video, the IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi said Wednesday that the Israeli military was preparing and coming up with solutions to deal with these and other capabilities.

We have many more forces in the IDF that are engaged in an offensive against Hezbollah, Halevi said in a conversation with Israeli troops at an aerial defense battery along Israels northern border with Lebanon.

I believe the enemy knows only a little about the capabilities we have and will face them, when necessary, at the right time, Halevi added.

Hezbollah has fired more than 5,000 rockets, missiles and drones at northern Israel since October 7, claiming that its attacks are in solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Hezbollah has said in the past that it will only stop firing on Israel if Israel stops the war in Gaza.

For its part, Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Lebanon and evacuated approximately 60,000 residents from the northern border. More than 90,000 Lebanese have also fled their homes in the area.

The US has sought a diplomatic off-ramp to avoid a wider war that could spread to the region, sending special envoy Amos Hochstein to Israel and Lebanon this week to try to ease tensions.

Israel and Hezbollah exchanged more cross-border fire on Wednesday in the latest round of hostilities on the combative border, a day after the visit by the Biden aide ended.

Hezbollah revealed that four of its fighters from southern Lebanon were killed without specifying when or how they died. The Iran-backed group also announced it had targeted Metula and Kryat Shmona in northern Israel with drones.

Videos shared by Lebanese media close to Hezbollah showed plumes of smoke rising from the southern Lebanese village of Burghalia after an Israeli strike, with more strikes on other Lebanese villages including Mais Al-Jabal, Talat Al-Awaida, Al-Khiyam and Hula, according to the state-run news agency NNA.

Additional reporting by Sharon Braithwaite.

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By Nidal al-Mughrabi

CAIRO (Reuters) -Israeli tanks backed by warplanes and drones advanced deeper into the western part of the Gaza Strip city of Rafah on Wednesday, killing eight people, according to residents and Palestinian medics.

Residents said the tanks moved into five neighbourhoods after midnight. Heavy shelling and gunfire hit the tents of displaced families in the Al-Mawasi area, further to the west of the coastal enclave, they said.

Some eight months into the war, there has been no sign of let up in the fighting as efforts by international mediators, backed by the United States, have failed to persuade Israel and Hamas to agree to a ceasefire.

Twelve Palestinians were also killed in an Israeli strike that hit a group of citizens and merchants in the south of the Gaza Strip, medical sources told Reuters on Wednesday.

The people were hit as they waited for convoys of aid trucks carrying goods through the Kerem Shalom crossing in Salahuddin Road northeast of Rafah, the sources added.

Israeli forces have laid waste to much of Gaza and seized most of the Palestinian territory but have yet to achieve Israel's stated goal of wiping out Hamas and freeing Israeli hostages.

Medics and Hamas media said eight Palestinians were killed in Al-Mawasi and many families fled north in panic. They did not identify the fatalities, and the Israeli military said it was looking into the report.

Residents said Israeli army forces blew up several homes in western Rafah, which had sheltered over half of Gaza's 2.3 million people before last month, when Israel began its ground offensive and forced most of the population to head northwards.

Some United Nations and Palestinian figures put those who remained at under 100,000 people.

"Another night of horror in Rafah. They opened fire from planes, drones and tanks on the western areas to cover for their invasion," said one Rafah resident, who asked not to be named.

"Bullets and shells landed in the Mawasi area near where people slept, killing and wounding many," he told Reuters via a chat app.

An Israeli commander briefing military correspondents in Rafah on Tuesday named two more locations there - Shaboura and Tel Al-Sultan - where the army planned to take on Hamas fighters.

"The Hamas battalions there are not yet well worn down and we need to dismantle them completely. We estimate it at more or less a month, at this intensity," Colonel Liron Batito, head of the Givati Brigade, told Army Radio.

The Israeli military remained in control of the border between Rafah and Egypt. Footage circulated on social media showed the Rafah crossing, the only window for most of Gaza's population with the outside world, was destroyed, buildings burnt, and Israeli tanks positioned there with the flag of Israel flying over some places.

The Israeli military said aid into Gaza had not been impeded by the damage.

Further north, Israel sent a column of tanks back into the Zeitoun neighbourhood in Gaza City, and residents reported heavy fire from tanks and warplanes but also sounds of gun battles with Hamas-led fighters.

In another Gaza City suburb, Sheikh Radwan, an Israeli air strike on a house killed four Palestinians, including a child, medics said. A total of 20 people were killed across Gaza.

The armed wings of Hamas and Islamic Jihad said fighters battled Israeli forces with anti-tank rockets and mortar bombs, and have in some areas detonated pre-planted explosive devices against army units.

Later on Wednesday, Palestinian gunmen fired rockets at the Kerem Shalom crossing in southern Gaza, the Israeli military said.

Israel's ground and air campaign was triggered when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing around 1,200 people and seizing more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

The offensive has left Gaza in ruins, killed more than 37,400 people, according to Palestinian health authorities, and left much of the population homeless and destitute.

Since a week-long truce in November, repeated attempts to arrange a ceasefire have failed, with Hamas insisting on an end to the war and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refuses to end the war before Hamas is eradicated and the hostages are freed.

On Wednesday, the United Nations human rights office said Israeli forces may have repeatedly violated fundamental principles of the laws of war and failed to distinguish between civilians and fighters in their Gaza campaign.

In a report assessing six Israeli attacks that caused a high number of casualties and destruction of civilian infrastructure, the U.N. Human Rights Office said Israeli forces "may have systematically violated the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions in attack".

Israel's permanent mission to the United Nations in Geneva called the analysis "factually, legally, and methodologically flawed".

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi; Editing by Angus MacSwan, Kirsten Donovan and Leslie Adler)
ISW explains why Russia accuses Ukrainian and NATO high-ranking officials and military of crimes

Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) believe that Russia's in absentia charges of crimes against Ukrainian military personnel and military officials are an attempt to impose Russian federal law outside its jurisdiction and a hint that Ukraine should not exist as an independent state.

Source: ISW

Details: On 18 June, the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs issued warrants for Petro Mekhed, a former Ukrainian deputy defence minister, and Viktor Bokii, the ex-deputy chief of the Ukrainian General Staff, accusing them of unspecified war crimes in absentia.

Earlier, on 17 June, the Russian Investigative Committee announced the in-absentia detention of a Ukrainian commander, charging him with involvement in the February 2024 downing of a Russian A-50 radar surveillance aircraft  an act typically seen as part of wartime engagements between hostile nations.

In a similar vein, the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs has previously included several officials from NATO countries bordering Russia on their wanted list, alleging breaches of Russian laws despite these actions taking place outside Russian legal jurisdiction.

Additionally, Russian authorities have intermittently listed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian Ground Forces Commander Lieutenant General Oleksandr Pavliuk, and former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko as wanted, accusing them of violating Russian laws even though these individuals were not present in Russia at the time.

Quote: "ISW continues to assess that Russia's decision to place Western officials on its wanted list for violating Russian federal laws outside of Russia is part of its effort to violate the sovereignty of NATO member states and justify possible future Russian aggression against NATO.

The Kremlin's prosecution of Ukrainian military personnel and political leadership who are engaged in a fully lawful, defensive war against an invasion by a foreign power in a manner akin to domestic terrorists highlights Russia's enduring belief that the Ukrainian state does not and should not exist as a political entity separate from Russia."

To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 18 June:

Russian leader Vladimir Putin published an article in North Korean state-owned newspaper Rodong Sinmun praising RussianNorth Korean cooperation on the eve of his visit to North Korea, likely to frame any future support that North Korea will lend to Russia as part of a common struggle against the West.

Ukrainian forces struck Russian oil depots in Rostov Oblast and Krasnodar Krai on the night of 17-18 June, using domestically produced Neptune missiles against a ground target in Russia for the second time.

Ukrainian forces have now conducted two strikes with its own Neptune missiles against areas in Russian territory that are within range of US-provided ATACMS but that are also protected by US policy that has established a vast sanctuary in Russian territory.

Founder of the Kremlin-linked Rybar Telegram Channel, Mikhail Zvinchuk, gave his second uncharacteristically public interview within a month in which he criticised the state of Russia's war effort in Ukraine and acknowledged that Western sanctions are negatively affecting Russia's industry and economy.

Russian forces recently marginally advanced near Vovchansk, Svatove, and Avdiivka.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin continues efforts to groom Russian military personnel for positions in the Russian government through the Kremlin's Time of Heroes programme.

Russian occupation officials continue their efforts to militarise Ukrainian youth in occupied Ukraine.

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The bodies of some of the 64 migrants missing in the Mediterranean Sea after their ship wrecked off Italy's southern coast are disembarked at the Italian southern port-city of Roccella Ionica, early Wednesday, June 19, 2024. U.N. agencies said the boat that wrecked off Calabria had set off from Turkey eight days earlier and caught fire and overturned. Eleven people were rescued Monday, but one died soon after they were brought to land. (AP Photo/Valeria Ferraro)

MILAN (AP)  Italy's coast guard was searching by sea and from the air on Thursday for dozens of people missing when a boat capsized and partially sank earlier this week in the perilous central Mediterranean, officials said.

The partially submerged boat was still in view, but the commander of the search operation said that no bodies were in sight. The boat capsized about 195 kilometers (120 miles) off the Calabrian coast.

A fishing boat was the first to respond on Monday after the boat capsized and rescued 12 people, one of whom later died. Italy's coast guard has recovered six bodies, and survivors say more than 60 people are missing. They include more than 20 children.

Survivors reported that the boat motor had caught fire, causing it to capsize off the Italian coast about eight days after departing from Turkey with about 75 people from Iran, Syria and Iraq on board, according to the U.N. refugee agency and other U.N. organizations.

A spokeswoman for Doctors Without Borders said that the survivors have suffered both psychological and physical trauma, and remained very confused.

They have been hospitalized ... and dont yet know who in their families is alive and who died at sea, said Cecilia Momi, in charge of the group's humanitarian affairs. Entire families are destroyed. Some lost a wife, some lost a child, a husband, a friend, a nephew.

Separately on Monday, the charity rescue ship Nadir rescued 51 people from Syria, Egypt, Pakistan and Bangladesh and transported them to Lampedusa. Another 10 people on the same smugglers' boat were found dead on the lower deck.

The deaths bring to more than 800 people who have died or went missing and are presumed dead crossing the central Mediterranean so far this year, an average of five dead a day, the U.N. agencies said.

The International Red Cross said that the tragedies are another testament to Europe's failing approach to migration and asylum, which prioritizes walls and deterrence over humane welcome.

___

Follow APs coverage of migration issues at https://apnews.com/hub/migration

___

This story has been corrected to show that 12 survivors were rescued, not 11. One of them later died.
An aerial drone photo taken in June 2024 shows a view of the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. (China National Nuclear Corporation/Handout via Xinhua)

NANJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China has successfully completed a project aimed at transporting steam generated by a nuclear power station to a petrochemical base. The project is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and explore collaborative energy utilization in nuclear and traditional industries.

The project, named Heqi No. 1 and constructed by the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), went into operation on Wednesday. It will deliver 4.8 million tonnes of steam annually from the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station to a petrochemical base in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province.

Nuclear power plants mainly rely on nuclear fission to release energy, heat water into steam and drive steam turbines to generate electricity. Additionally, the steam can not only be used for power generation, but also be applied in industrial production, said Liu Yongsheng, maintenance general manager of the Jiangsu Nuclear Power Corporation of the CNNC.

For petrochemical enterprises, steam is an indispensable heat source and power source in the production process. The petrochemical industry, which faces the challenge of a clean and low-carbon transformation, prefers to replace coal consumption with nuclear energy to provide heat, steam, and power, Liu said.

The project uses the steam generated from the turbine system of the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station Unit 3 and Unit 4 as the heat source. It transports the steam through industrial gas pipelines to the petrochemical industrial base via multi-stage heat exchange, replacing traditional coal consumption and addressing the heat and power needs of petrochemical enterprises.

The project is expected to reduce the consumption of standard coal by 400,000 tonnes annually, equivalent to cutting the emissions of 1.07 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, 184 tonnes of sulfur dioxide and 263 tonnes of nitrogen oxides. It's also comparable to planting 2,900 hectares of new woods each year, and saving over 700,000 tonnes of carbon emission allowances for the petrochemical base annually, according to the CNNC.

The nuclear power units have four layers of safety barriers, and multi-layer isolation measures and radiation monitoring instruments are adopted to ensure the safety of the production and transmission of the steam, according to the corporation.

The cooperation between the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station and the petrochemical base has set an example for China's nuclear industry, while also providing a new solution for the green upgrading of energy supply in the traditional petrochemical industry, said Zhang Yi, chairman of the Jiangsu Nuclear Power Corporation.

Huang Ping, secretary-general of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), said the CAEA supports the application of nuclear technology in industries, agriculture, healthcare, environmental protection, safety and other fields. The CAEA will continue to nurture and develop promising nuclear technology projects and applications.

According to Ye Qizhen, an academician of Chinese Academy of Engineering, this approach can meet the diverse energy needs of energy-intensive industries and provide decarbonization solutions for high-carbon emission sectors.

According to the CAEA, nuclear energy has been widely used in various fields in China, including isotope production, hydrogen production and seawater desalination. Moreover, nuclear technologies have been applied in all aspects of people's lives, such as industries, agriculture, medicine, environmental protection and security. 

This photo taken in June 2024 shows a facility of Heqi No. 1 in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. (China National Nuclear Corporation/Handout via Xinhua)

An aerial drone photo taken on June 19, 2024 shows a view of the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. China has successfully completed a project aimed at transporting steam generated by a nuclear power station to a petrochemical base. The project is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and explore collaborative energy utilization in nuclear and traditional industries. (Xinhua/Li Bo)

An aerial drone photo taken on June 19, 2024 shows an energy station of Heqi No. 1 project in the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. China has successfully completed a project aimed at transporting steam generated by a nuclear power station to a petrochemical base. The project is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and explore collaborative energy utilization in nuclear and traditional industries. (Xinhua/Li Bo)

A drone photo taken on June 19, 2024 shows Heqi No. 1 project's pipelines in the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. China has successfully completed a project aimed at transporting steam generated by a nuclear power station to a petrochemical base. The project is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and explore collaborative energy utilization in nuclear and traditional industries. (Xinhua/Li Bo)

An aerial drone photo taken on June 19, 2024 shows the Unit 3 and Unit 4 of Tianwan Nuclear Power Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. China has successfully completed a project aimed at transporting steam generated by a nuclear power station to a petrochemical base. The project is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and explore collaborative energy utilization in nuclear and traditional industries. (Xinhua/Li Bo)

A drone photo taken on June 19, 2024 shows Heqi No. 1 project's pipelines in the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. China has successfully completed a project aimed at transporting steam generated by a nuclear power station to a petrochemical base. The project is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and explore collaborative energy utilization in nuclear and traditional industries. (Xinhua/Li Bo)

An aerial drone photo taken on June 19, 2024 shows a view of the Tianwan Nuclear Power Station in Lianyungang City, east China's Jiangsu Province. China has successfully completed a project aimed at transporting steam generated by a nuclear power station to a petrochemical base. The project is designed to help reduce carbon emissions and explore collaborative energy utilization in nuclear and traditional industries. (Xinhua/Li Bo)
By Giuseppe Fonte and Gavin Jones

ROME (Reuters) - Italy will take a "responsible" approach to its budget policy, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti said, after the European Commission recommended disciplinary budget steps against Rome along with six other countries over their high fiscal gaps.

The EU announcement on Wednesday came with Italy under close market scrutiny.

The yield gap between Italian and German bonds - a gauge of the risk premium investors seek to hold Italian debt - has widened since European elections this month showed rising support for eurosceptics and nationalists.

"We are aware that, given the context we find ourselves in, it is necessary to maintain a responsible approach in planning and managing budget policy," Giorgetti said at an event in Rome.

Italy's 2023 deficit came in at 7.4% of GDP, the highest in the euro zone, pushed up by costly government incentives for energy saving building work. Rome plans to bring the fiscal gap below the EU's 3% limit only in 2026.

The infringement procedure obliges Italy to cut its structural budget deficit -- net of one-off factors and business cycle fluctuations -- by at least 0.5% of GDP per year.

However, the Treasury has previously said Italy is already on track to meet the EU requirements, as its latest multi-year budget projections factor in an average annual reduction in the structural deficit of around 0.7% of GDP through 2027.

"The deficit goals are those we have indicated in our budget path, which we intend to respect," Giorgetti said, adding Rome wants to extend to 2025 temporary tax cuts for employees with low to middle incomes currently in place until December.

Italy now needs to negotiate a fiscal adjustment with Brussels that adheres to the excess deficit procedure and complies with the latest reform of EU's two-decade-old fiscal rules.

The new rules set a slow but steady pace of deficit and debt reduction from 2025 over four to seven years, with the longer option available if a country undertakes reforms and investments in areas the EU prioritises.

Italy has repeatedly said it wants a seven-year adjustment path.

Being placed under a deficit reduction procedure carries the advantage for Italy that it temporarily shields it from an EU requirement that it reduce its debt by a minimum of 1 percentage point per year.

On the other hand, countries under such a procedure may not be automatically eligible for the European Central Bank's Transmission Protection Instrument (TPI), a scheme created to buy government bonds from countries suffering a market attack.

"In the current uncertain environment, market confidence can be challenged by exogenous factors other than the management of public budgets," Giorgetti said.

(editing by Alvise Armellini)
According to the latest report from the Mississippi Department of Employment Security, Jackson and Hattiesburg-area-counties are seeing record low unemployment rates, coinciding with the state's unemployment figures.

Unemployment reports from MDES are released every one to two months and the data reflects the month prior or earlier in the year.

The most recent data is from April of 2024.

Unemployment rates in the Jackson area

Year over year, Hinds County saw the most improvement from 2.5% in April 2023 to 1.8% this year. Rankin and Madison counties both fell 0.7% from April 2023, going from 2% and 2.1% to 1.3% and 1.4%, respectively.

Hinds County currently has 1,820 people unemployed, compared to 2,610 in April 2023, showing 790 fewer people unemployed. Rankin County has 1,000, which is 500 fewer people than last year, and Madison 760 unemployed people, down 370 from 1,130 unemployed people from 2023.

Shown is a graphic of April unemployment data released by the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.

Unemployment rates in the Hattiesburg area

In the Hattiesburg area, Lamar and Forrest counties' unemployment rates fell 0.6% and 0.8% from 2.1% and 2.5%, respectively, in April 2023. Lamar and Forrest counties now sit at 1.5% and 1.7% unemployment.

There are currently 750 people unemployed in Forrest County, which shows a 70-person drop from 820 in April 2023. In Lamar County, there are now 460 unemployed, as compared to 650 in April 2023.

Jefcoat Fence crew members David King, foreground, of Harrisville and Blake Smith of Brandon work on erecting a chain link fence around the abandoned First Christian Church at the corner of State and High Streets in Jackson on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. In April, the Jackson and Hattiesburg area counties saw improved unemployment rates.

Unemployment figures in the state and nation

Amazon development: MEC celebrates successes at 50th annual celebration

The State of Mississippi also experiences an improved jobless rate, falling 0.9% from April 2023 when it was 2.7%. Thate state's unemployment rate currently sits at 1.8%.

Republican Gov. Tate Reeves in a press release issued in April, said the unemployment figured reflect a strong state economy.

This new data is further proof that Mississippis economy is on fire, Reeves said. We have had an unprecedented run of record-shattering private sector investment and new economic development projects in the last few years. Weve secured more good-paying jobs for the people of our state, and this shows that its making a difference.

That improvement counters a rise in unemployment on the national level, which rose to 3.5% from 3.1% in April 2023.

Across the state, there are 22,700 unemployed people, showing a 10,000 person decrease from last year. The United States' rate grew by 748,000 people from April 2023, with 5,894,000 people now unemployed.

Read latest campaign finance reports See which candidates in judicial races raised the most for their campaigns

Grant McLaughlin covers state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Unemployment rates improves in Jackson MS, Hattiesburg MS
5 arrested, more than 70 cited, several vehicles impounded during Operation Decelerate in Jacksonville

Five people were arrested and more than 70 citations were given Saturday during Operation Decelerate, a Jacksonville Sheriffs Office and Florida Highway Patrol deployment to crack down on street racing and dangerous driving.

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters said police received intelligence through social media that groups from around the country planned to meet in Jacksonville. The operation was conducted in response to citizen complaints about the unauthorized closure of roadways, street racing, and dangerous stunt maneuvers.

Waters said while there werent a large number of arrests, the arrests that were made were meaningful, as the organizer of the event was among those arrested.

Vehicles were also impounded and seized. Waters also showed a video of one of the participants being injured which was very graphic. Action News Jax chose not to show that portion of the video live on CBS47 Action News Jax at Noon, but we will show an edited version on CBS47 and FOX30 Action News Jax at 5.

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Waters said that once state law changes on July 1 to include stricter penalties for street racing, there will be no grace period.

Your dangerous games will not be tolerated, Waters said, addressing illegal street racing participants directly.

RELATED: Guns, drugs and a lot of doughnuts involved in arrests from street racing Operation Decelerate

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**Operation Decelerate**



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JSO and FHP conducted an operation this past weekend aimed at curbing a dangerous trend. Todays discussion was related to the large-scale operation that led to multiple arrests and citations.



Operation pic.twitter.com/qsXJF9sHw1  Jax Sheriff's Office (@JSOPIO) June 19, 2024

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Jamestown woman sentenced to nine years for involvement in drug trafficking ring

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Jamestown woman was sentenced to serve nine years in prison Tuesday for her involvement in an alleged drug trafficking ring that occurred between 2018 and 2020, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

31-year-old Kylie Reeves was convicted of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute, and distributing, 50 grams or more of meth.

Reeves distributed meth and heroin for co-defendant and alleged leader of the ring, Rocco Beardsley. Beardsley was arrested on New York State warrants in March of 2020 and was indicted a month later. He is still awaiting sentencing.

Reeves continued communicating with co-conspirators, associates, suppliers, and customers on Beardsleys behalf following his arrest. She allowed him to utilize her Jamestown residence and also lived at his residence with her three minor children.

In a search by investigators, meth was found at Beardsleys residence along with fentanyl, cocaine, hydrocodone and other controlled substances found in his vehicle.

In 2020, Reeves was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

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.

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.
Jarvis McIntyre Case: Body Of Missing Vet Found In San Antonio, Family Believes He Was Targeted For Being Black And LGBT

Jarvis McIntyre Case: Body Of Missing Vet Found In San Antonio, Family Believes He Was Targeted For Being Black And LGBT |

The body of missing Navy veteran Jarvis McIntyre, also known as Sisqo Mills, who traveled to San Antonio to visit his siblings ahead of his birthday, was identified on June 17.

A tweet from a longtime friend of his who goes by @J_McCole314 on X, formally known as Twitter, revealed that the St. Louis native went to Texas to visit his siblings. After he didnt return and no one had heard from him following an alarming call, his family began to worry and turned to the public for help.

His last cell phone pinged him in Benton Texas days ago He got down there Thursday June 6, 2024 and was to come back home for his birthday. His birthday was Monday June 10th, the tweet read in part. No one has heard from him nor seen him since Saturday. We have been looking now for over 72 hours and the Texas authorities had been reaching out to the sister no answer. My family have jumped in their cars and gone to Texas. We have a few other updates but Im gonna wait to release once I get updates when they get home.

 #MISSING  #StLouisMo #Texas #Repost Name : #Jarvis McIntyre

He is from St. Louis and went on vacation to Texas My Lil cousin is missing, I know Texas is a big place. He went down there to visit his siblings. His last cell phone pinged him in Benton Texas pic.twitter.com/WGcHY3DYG8  Justice for Jarvis, AKA Sisqo (@J_McCole314) June 12, 2024

The story has gone viral due to the mystery surrounding his passing. He was last seen around Holbrook and Rittiman, which is not far from where his corpse was located. In addition, his rental car and other items he was carrying with him at the time were spotted off Holbrook Road, one block away from John James Park, according to KENS5.

McIntyres mother, Monikki Williams Tippet, shared that officers said the last observance of her son was him running at the park on the afternoon of June 9. She and others believe the root of her sons death is based on racism and discrimination due to him being a Black man and being part of the LGBTQ community.

I want answers now, she told KENS5.

Before his whereabouts became unknown, he called 911 to notify them that he was being chased by a racist individual, reported First Alert 4.

A complete toxicology report is underway, but detectives have ruled out foul play for now.
Jasiel Correia doubles down on allegations of extortion against his ex-lawyer

BOSTON  Former mayor Jasiel Correia II is not giving up on his bid for early release from his six-year prison sentence, doubling down in a response to prosecutors' opposition and continuing to argue that hes the victim of ineffective assistance of counsel by his defense attorney, Kevin Reddington.

Correia filed a motion for reduction in his sentence in May, accusing Reddington, a high-profile Massachusetts defense attorney, of several alleged wrong-doings.

Federal prosecutors responded strongly in their motion in opposition to Correias claims, saying the former mayor was and remains unrepentant of his crimes.

Reddington has denied Correias allegations, calling the convicted Fall River mayor "a liar."

Mayor Jasiel Correia gives his victory speech after losing the recall vote but winning the recall election on Tuesday, at Barrett's Waterfront in Fall River, March 12, 2019.

Correia, 32, remains in a federal prison in Kentucky. A jury convicted him after an 18-day trial in May 2021 for defrauding investors of hundreds of thousands of dollars in an app company he founded called SnoOwl before he was elected mayor, and for extorting hundreds of thousands of dollars from marijuana business owners as mayor for the right to do business in Fall River.

Prosecutors said Correia used the money to fund a "lavish lifestyle," spending it on cars, luxury items, expensive travel, student loan repayments and extravagant gifts to a romantic interest at the time.

Timeline: Tracing Jasiel Correia's fall: From entrepreneur & mayor, to convicted corruption kingpin

Kevin Reddington, who represented former Fall River mayor Jasiel Correia at his trial, arrives at the courthouse ahead of Correia's sentencing hearing.

Correia accuses Reddington of threatening to try his case unprepared unless he coughed up $50,000

Correia has alleged Reddington attempted to extort from him $50,000 and a 20% stake in his now-defunct company, SnoOwl.

In Correias most recent filing, he expounded on the allegation, writing, [Reddington] attempted to extort $50,000 and 20% of SnoOwl from the Defendant and his family with threats that he would otherwise be unprepared for trial and that Defendants family could visit him at [U.S. Penitentiary] Leavenworth while hes serving thirty years; and he made good on his threat by being utterly unprepared for trial and refusing to call at least a dozen witnesses that the Defendant had asked him to call in his defense.

Correia also alleges that Reddingtons lack of preparation was the only reason that your Defendant didnt testify in his own defense."

Reddington has denied the accusations, adding, "By the way, 20% of nothing is nothing."

How Jasiel Correia fell from grace: 'What he wanted was money, what he wanted was power'

Lawyer Kevin Reddington, who represents former Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia II waits outside John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse in Boston, on day three of jury deliberations on Thursday, May 13, 2021.

Correia again complained in his court filing that Reddington agreed to not sever his case into two separate trials  the SnoOwl fraud case and the corruption case  without being fully informed and with his consent.

Correia made that claim despite being present for multiple pretrial hearings with federal court Judge Douglas P. Woodlock that addressed that issue.

In his latest filing, Correia asserted that, despite his orders, Reddington failed to call multiple witnesses to the stand, including his former staffers Michael Dion, executive director the Community Development Agency, and his co-defendant and former chief of staff Gen Andrade.

Former Chief of Staff and campaign manager Gen Andrade pleaded guilty on Monday to six counts of federal charges for her part in the government corruption charges against former Mayor Jasiel Correia II

Dion had been subpoenaed by Correia to testify. The night before he was to appear for the defense, he was told by Reddington he would not have to take the stand.

Its unlikely Andrade would be compelled to testify for Correia's defense, as she was a co-defendant with Correia and awaiting her own pending trial. Andrade later took a negotiated plea deal with the government and was given one year's probation for her role in the corruption case.

Correia further claims that he has text messages and emails between himself and Reddington that prove his assertions, although the court filing contains no exhibits.

Where in the world is Jasiel Correia? Convicted former mayor Jasiel Correia moved to 5th federal facility. Where he is now

Analyst: Correia's filing is 'a concerted attack' on Reddington

Somerset attorney and legal analyst Steven Sabra said his review of Correias latest filing offers no new insights into his argument for early release.

Federal law allows for a prison sentence to be modified for extraordinary and compelling reasons. Sabra said that law is usually invoked for issues like prisoners health or safety issues.

Its a concerted attack on attorney Reddington, thats really all it is, said Sabra on Correias recent filing. He raises the same points here he raised in his initial pleading. The question is still going to come down to whether there are, as the statute reads, whether there are extraordinary or compelling reasons.

Former Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia II enters John Joseph Moakley Federal Courthouse in September 2021.

Correia asks why prosecutors didn't include affidavit from Reddington

Correia's most recent filing also made an issue of the fact that prosecutors did not include an affidavit from Reddington in their motion opposing his early release.

In his request for early release, Correia had enlisted affidavits from his immediate family, including sworn statements from his wife, Jenny Fernandes Correia, his parents, Jasiel Correia and Maria Correia, and his sister, Alexandra Correia, supporting his allegations.

Sabra said an affidavit from Reddington is not legally required since Correias issue is with the government and the court  not his defense attorney.

Sabra noted that Correia also never raised the issue of ineffective assistance of counsel after his conviction in his appeal to overturn the guilty verdict or to give him a new trial.

He lost that appeal before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in November 2022.

Former Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia II leaves the John Joseph Moakley Federal Courthouse in Boston in September 2021 with his wife, Jenny Fernandes.

Correia has retained a forensic expert, but it's unclear why

Correia requested and was granted an extension by Woodlock to amend his response to the governments opposition to his early release. His deadline is June 26.

In his filing, Correia indicates to the court that he was able to retain forensics expert" and as soon as the forensics report and affidavit is delivered to his family, he will supplement this supply this Reply with the same.

It is not immediately clear what forensic information Correia will be submitting to the court.

Sabra said Woodlock may schedule a hearing in federal court on the matter of Correia's early release or file an order without an in-person hearing.

According to the Bureau of Prisons, Correias current release date is Aug. 15, 2026.

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: Former Fall River mayor Jasiel Correia continues bid for early release
Jason Blair and Nick Pokorny were forced into a runoff in Tuesday's primary for Oklahoma House District 53 after none of the four candidates earned more than 50% of the vote. Pokorny received 32.39% of the vote and Blair received 33.25%.

Blair, who works as an insurance salesman, has spent 15 years on the Moore City Council. Pokorny is a 33-year-old businessman who is vice chair of the Cleveland County Republican Party. They defeated Heather Boss and Katherine Stehno in the June 18 primary.

The Moore-area district has been represented by term-limited Republican Mark McBride since 2012.

McBride, the Oklahoma House's Assistant Majority Floor Leader, leads the state House Appropriations subcommittee on education. He's been front and center for the last year and a half in criticizing how state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters, also a Republican, is running the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

All four of the candidates to succeed McBride  Jason Blair, Heather Boss, Nick Pokorny and Kathren Stehno  acknowledge the attention McBrides efforts have brought to their district, which encompasses most of Moore and parts of southwest Oklahoma City.

Nick Pokorny, candidate for House District 53 seat.

The winner of the Aug. 27 runoff election will serve in the next Legislature, as no Democrats or independents filed for the seat.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma election results: Blair, Pokorny in runoff for District 53
(NEXSTAR)  JetBlue will soon allow the airlines basic economy passengers to bring a single carry-on bag in addition to a smaller personal item, free of charge.

The policy change, which takes effect on Sept. 6, is intended to keep JetBlue competitive in the airline industry, the carrier announced in a press release issued Tuesday.

Carry-on bags are an important part of travel to customers, and when presented with a choice between JetBlues award-winning service and another carriers basic offering, we want JetBlue to be the easy winner, said JetBlue President Marty St. George in Tuesdays release.

Southwest plane that did a Dutch roll suffered damage, investigators say

Currently, JetBlues basic economy travelers  or Blue Basic, as JetBlue calls this tier  are only allowed a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you, per JetBlues website. Carry-on bags brought to the gate will be checked at a fee of $65 for the first two, and $180 for a third.

JetBlue does, however, allow ticketholders at all other levels to bring a complimentary carry-on.

JetBlue is one of only a handful of major American carriers to charge for the first carry-on bag with a basic economy ticket, the most notable being United Airlines, which charges a carry-on fee for most flights within North America). Other low-cost carriers, such as Spirit and Frontier, charge economy passengers for carry-on bags as well.

As confirmed by a representative for JetBlue, the carrier didnt always charge its basic economy passengers for carry-on bags. JetBlue had previously offered a free carry-on upon the introduction of the Basic Blue fare in 2019, but removed the perk in 2021 to further reduce the fare and stimulate travel demand after the COVID-19 pandemic, a representative for JetBlue explained in an emailed statement provided to Nexstar.

Some users on social media werent so quick to forget that JetBlue once offered a free carry-on to all passengers, either.

Havent flown with them since they started charging, one X user commented.

Its about time to change it back, another said.

United passengers report feeling sick on flight; officials hint at possible cause

JetBlue further explained that all basic economy passengers flying after Sept. 6 will be eligible for a complimentary carry-on, regardless of whether they already purchased tickets. Carry-on bags will also be allowed depending on space in the aircraft; bags that dont fit will be checked free of charge at the gate, the airline said.

As the airline industry changes, we always look for ways to evolve our offering in response to customer preferences when they are evaluating airline options, a spokesperson for JetBlue 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 Queen City News.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday. During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai. He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation. Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

XINING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspected northwest China's Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (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, visits a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)
Many JetBlue passengers have opted for the carrier's low-cost Blue Basic ticket tier, which up until now has included a free personal item. Now, in a major shift for the airline, basic economy passengers will also be able to bring one free carry-on onboard.

The company just announced that starting Sept. 6, all Blue Basic fares will include one free carry-on bag, regardless of when the ticket was purchased.

"Carry-on bags are an important piece of travel to customers, and when presented with a choice between JetBlues award-winning service and another carriers basic offering, we want JetBlue to be the easy winner," JetBlue president Marty St. George said of the move, per USA Today. "Were always looking for ways to evolve our offering in response to customer preferences. This is a win-win as we improve the customer experience and keep JetBlue competitive in our industry."

Related: These Are the Best U.S. Airlines of 2024, New Study Finds

Up until now, if you wanted to bring a carry-on on your JetBlue flight, you had to pay more for a Blue or Blue Extra ticket. That doesn't mean your bag is guaranteed to make it aboard, however, as it depends on bag size and flight capacity.

"While many of JetBlues aircraft are outfitted with larger overhead bins to accommodate more customers, in the event of space constraints, customers may be required to check carry-on bags at the gate for no additional charge," JetBlue said in a statement. "Customers who want to board earlier to utilize overhead bin space will now find even more value in purchasing the more flexible Blue fare, JetBlues second lowest fare that comes with free advanced seat selection, no cancellation or change fees, and general boarding. Blue Basic customers remain the final group to board."

The new policy will take effect at the tail end of the summer travel season, but holiday flyers this year will surely be happy with the change.
A Biden Bingo card at the start of a Seniors for Biden-Harris kickoff event at the Biden-Harris midtown field office in Phoenix on June 13, 2024. (Photo by Grace Hand/Cronkite News)

A Biden Bingo card at the start of a Seniors for Biden-Harris kickoff event at the Biden-Harris midtown field office in Phoenix on June 13, 2024. (Photo by Grace Hand/Cronkite News)

PHOENIX  A cheer of Bingo! was quickly followed by groans of disappointment and hearty laughter as a group of older adults played Biden Bingo on Thursday morning. The event was part of a new Joe Biden campaign tactic that aims to mobilize senior voters through bingo rounds, pickleball tournaments, ice cream socials and intergenerational chats.

Attendees at Biden Bingo at a Biden campaign office in Phoenix praised the event, saying that it was a more personable approach to campaigning.

I love the concept because just sitting at my table today, I met people I had no idea were invested in helping to reelect Joe Biden, said Dora Vasquez, executive director of the Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans.

Seniors for Biden-Harris is one of the latest attempts from the Biden campaign to target specific demographics. This month, Republican Donald Trump launched Latino Americans for Trump and Black Americans for Trump. This targeted campaign strategy has blown up in the past decade or so, according to Stella Rouse, a professor in the School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University.

In the 2000s, early 2000s and later, thats really when it ramped up in terms of campaigns, hiring statisticians and psychometricians that really do analysis on the ability to use campaigns to target certain populations and certain demographics, Rouse said.

Historically, targeted campaigns have used data from voter records to target specific populations with political flyers and emails, door knocks and cold calls. With social media analytics, it has become easier than ever to target people of certain demographics through tracking website visits and engagement, among other tactics.

The advent of the internet and social media has had a lot to do with being able to refine those tactics and being able to target, Rouse said. All of the analytics  have really worked together to provide that sort of targeting campaign.

A Seniors for Biden-Harris kickoff event in Phoenix on June 13, 2024: It gives you a more personal connection with somebody, especially this event with all retired people, said Gary Glatting, right. That means theres interest in our generation. (Photo by Grace Hand/Cronkite News)

Now, campaigns are going beyond advertising. With Seniors for Biden-Harris, the current focus is on smaller, more intimate gatherings, such as bingo, alongside large campaign events.

Older adults who attended Biden Bingo noted that because of the setting and activity, they felt that theres interest in our generation, said Gary Glatting, a retiree based in Phoenix.

Lori Martinez, Arizona chairwoman for the Republican National Hispanic Assembly, agreed that targeted outreach is important to engage certain communities, such as Hispanic voters. RNHA is doing that through collaboration with Latino Americans for Trump.

It is so important that this specific group, this demographic in our country, realize that they are a very important part of our American system, especially our political system, she said.

Martinez said that outreach needs to be personalized, specifically emphasizing the importance of family in Hispanic communities.

Us Hispanic people, such as myself, the older Hispanics and the younger Hispanics, are reaching out to their sphere of influence, she said. It works because  we are a family.

Rouse, who is the director of ASUs Hispanic Research Center, warned that focusing too much on smaller events can isolate potential voters.

If you do everything sort of at the aggregate mega level, thats not gonna work, she said. But you cant dedicate all your resources to doing personal events and campaigns because then thats not going to reach the number of people that you need to reach.

In a 2022 survey by the Pew Research Center, a quarter of respondents said they didnt feel the Democratic Party worked hard to earn their vote.

It was really a big thing that Donald Trump made gains among Latinos in certain areas, Rouse said. Some of the criticism was because there wasnt countercampaigning by the Biden team and by Democrats in those areas.

In Rouses research about the Latino vote, Latino voters said there just wasnt enough focus on winning their vote by the Biden campaign in 2020.

As of Monday, Trump has consistently led in Arizona by about four points, according to FiveThirtyEight, a polling aggregation website. Nationally, however, the margin is much tighter. Appealing to a large swath of voters will be key in the 2024 presidential election, Rouse explained.

Its going to matter, mobilizing all groups, in order to win the election given the razor-thin margins. You cant really neglect any group, she said.

For more stories from Cronkite News, visit cronkitenews.azpbs.org.

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Washington received a $123.3 million lump sum payment from Johnson & Johnson due to a lawsuit over the drug manufacturers role in the opioid crisis, the state attorney generals office announced Tuesday.

Attorney General Bob Ferguson sued the company in 2020. To avoid a trial, Johnson & Johnson, one of the largest suppliers of raw materials used to produce opioids, agreed to pay the lump sum in January.

The state will receive $149.5 million overall from Johnson & Johnson, with $26.2 million going to cover legal costs.

Ferguson rejected a 2021 multistate resolution with Johnson & Johnson that would have given Washington about $24.4 million less than the states individual lawsuit.

The funds will be split evenly between state and local governments, which are expected to receive opioid settlement dollars over the next 17 years, according to the attorney generals office.

The payment is the latest to arrive out of the nearly $1.3 billion the state has won from settlements with companies involved in the opioid industry.

Related: How WA counties are spending millions in opioid settlement dollars

State lawmakers spent about $52 million in opioid settlement funds during this years legislative session. Those funds went to various efforts to combat the opioid epidemic, including prevention education, overdose reversal medication and treatment centers.

The state still has pending opioid epidemic litigation against two national pharmacy chains.

The post Johnson & Johnson pays $123 million to WA following opioid lawsuit appeared first on Washington State Standard.
Johnson & Johnson settled out of court and agreed to pay $123.34 million after Attorney General Bob Ferguson filed a lawsuit in 2020 for their alleged involvement in fueling the opioid crisis.

On Tuesday, Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced that a settlement was reached and will keep Johnson & Johnson out of court.

We stood up to some of the worlds largest corporations that fueled the epidemic in pursuit of profit  and we won more than $1 billion that will help communities recover from the opioid crisis, Ferguson said. My team continues to hold these corporations accountable and deliver critical resources that must be used to improve treatment options, support first responders, and address the crisis impacting every community.

The money received will be evenly distributed to state and local governments, in alignment with the states Opioid Response Plan, and must be used to combat the opioid epidemic.

The Attorney Generals Office is currently in litigation with two other pharmacy chains also accused of contributing to the crisis.
JOPLIN, Mo.  A generous donation is making sure a local group will be able to celebrate dozens of birthdays in the months to come.

Storm Cloud Marketing donated 50 birthday cake kits to Community Support Services of Missouri in Joplin Wednesday. Each kit contains supplies for cake and frosting, as well as the pan to bake it in.

The goal is to ensure that individuals at the nonprofit know their birthdays will receive the extra attention they deserve.

Now were really focused on who are groups of people we can really provide a lot of help with. Make sure that it really does happen. That theres a birthday cake waiting for them there no matter what, said Dustin Storm, Storm Cloud Marketing Co-owner.

I mean Dustin is just extremely generous in his donation to us and his care for our individuals. His mission is to make sure everyone has a birthday cake on their birthdays. For many of our individuals, that might not be something thats always an option. And so the fact that he thought of us is special and meaningful to our individuals, said Ryan Melton, Community Support Services President & CEO.

The project, called Mission: Protect the Cake, began several months ago with deliveries now underway.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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The star witness in Sen. Bob Menendez's federal corruption trial has a new sentencing date after entering a guilty plea to seven charges and agreeing to cooperate with federal prosecutors.

Jose Uribe, one of the three businessmen who was originally indicted with Menendez and his wife, faced a delayed sentencing due to the postponement of Nadine Arslanian Menendez's court case.

Uribe was initially scheduled to be sentenced June 14 but will now appear before a judge on Oct. 29. He was charged alongside the senator last fall but entered a guilty plea after making a plea deal with federal prosecutors.

Also charged with Menendez, Arslanian Menendez and Uribe were Bergen County developer Fred Daibes and Wael Hana, an Egyptian-American businessman.

Manhattan, NY  October 18, 2023 -- Jose Uribe involved in the bribery case involving Senator Robert Menendez enters the Federal Courthouse in lower Manhattan for a hearing on corruption charges.

Uribe spent several days last week on the stand as a witness for the prosecution and admitted to bribing the senator.

Uribe changed his not guilty plea to guilty on seven charges in March, including conspiracy to commit bribery and wire fraud.

According to a plea agreement, Uribe could face up to 95 years in prison, though he could win leniency by cooperating and testifying against the other defendants, which hes agreed to do.

Daibes trial scheduled

Manhattan, NY  October 18, 2023 -- Fred Daibes, involved in the bribery case involving Senator Robert Menendez exits the Federal Courthouse in lower Manhattan for a hearing on corruption charges.

The week Uribe will be sentenced will also see a new trial for Daibes for a separate bank fraud case that is related with the Menendez charges.

Six years after he was first indicted, Daibes' bank fraud cause is scheduled to begin on Oct. 22.

Menendez's indictment shed light on the Democrat's alleged interference with Daibes' bank fraud charges. Prosecutors said the senator recommended that President Joe Biden nominate a U.S. attorney whom he believed could influence the case in Daibes' favor.

An updated indictment of Menendez and Daibes, released this month, alleged that Menendez was also working with Daibes and Qatar.

The initial indictment, released last fall, made it seem as if Daibes made payments solely to get Menendez to intervene in the bank fraud case.

But the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York now alleges Menendez was multitasking for Daibes  by also publicly praising Qatar to entice a Qatari sheik to invest in a property Daibes owns. In exchange, Daibes allegedly gave Menendez bribes in the form of cash and gold bars.

Daibes admitted last year to receiving more than $1 million in gross receipts from Mariner's Bank, the Edgewater-based lender where he once served as chairman. He pleaded guilty to making false entries in a loan memorandum. His sentencing hearing was delayed four times.

Daibes pleaded guilty to a single count of the original 14-count indictment, which cited a 2008 memo for a $1.8 million nominee loan that falsely identified the borrower and the source of repayment. The line of credit was actually for Daibes, who funded the repayment, prosecutors said.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Jose Uribe's sentencing set for Oct. 29
Associated Press reporter Darren Sands, right, reads the names of United States Colored Troops regimental soldiers, including his great-great-great-great grandfather Hewlett Sands, at the African American Civil War Memorial as part of Juneteenth commemorations on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

WASHINGTON (AP)  It was the middle of the night in the summer of 2021 when I finally found the missing piece of my family history.

My great-great-great-great grandfather Hewlett Sands, born into slavery in Oyster Bay, New York in 1820, was one of the more than 200,000 names listed on the African American Civil War Memorial in Washington, D.C. That meant he was a soldier who served in a United States Colored Troops regiment that fought for the Union  and the freedom we still celebrate today.

As the screen glowed, a mix of emotions  anxiety, elation, pride  washed over me. It was the first step in understanding the story of his life. I want to share what I know about him!

I had to resist the urge to race to the Spirit of Freedom statue and trace my fingers over his name etched on the nearby Wall of Honor. I held off until the sun came up.

This Juneteenth I returned to the memorial to honor him and all who served our country, one that spent its first two centuries seeing most of its Black people as someone elses property. In a special ceremony Wednesday, I was helping carry on the more than 150-year-old commemoration of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finding out on June 19, 1865, that theyd been freed. Its been a longtime sacred celebration for many Black Americans, but only recently was recognized as a federal holiday.

I didn't go just for myself or my family. I also wanted to celebrate Frank Smith, a civil rights leader and the memorials director, whose work preserving this lesser-known American history helped me understand where I came from and who I was.

One of Smiths biggest wishes is for the National Parks Service to assign a full-time ranger to the memorial site. If there was ever a candidate, it would be Marquett Awa-Milton. I first met him when I came to find my ancestors name. He serves the memorial daily in full Civil War regalia, and was taking selfies and gladhanding visitors with his rifle sticking above his head as I arrived.

Soon, the ceremony began. Smith, who once presided over this event with just his staff and very little fanfare, opened the ceremony by welcoming about 150 people, many tucked under the shade as temperatures rose. Smith then asked me and two-dozen other volunteers to read the names of soldiers who were in Galveston when the war ended, including the 26th Regiment. After I read Hewlett Sands' name aloud, I took my wife, Jummy, by the hand and showed her the tiny corner of the memorial symbolizing his sacrifice. I felt again the same mix of pride and gratitude I first felt in the summer of 2021.

Congratulations on finding your ancestor, Smith had told me again last week, as he had after he first told me in 2021 after I found my connection to Hewlett Sands. I think it is what he says to everyone who finds their ancestor on the wall, a thank you for all those men who sacrificed.

I learned about Hewlett Sands while researching my familys history, hoping to interweave it into a book Im writing about Coretta Scott Kings work to try and transform America into a nonviolent society after the assassination of her husband, Martin Luther King Jr. in April 1968.

Over the many decades since the Civil War, there was a lot of displacement among my ancestors; people moved away and never came back and a lot of our family stories were lost.

But I do know that the Sands men served valiantly in World War II. There was a newspaper headline about The Sands Family Fights with a photograph of several of them. We knew a lot more about World War II than the Civil War.

According to the records I found, Hewlett Sands was born on Nov. 29, 1820, in the home of the Townsend family, a wealthy and powerful family on Long Island who held many enslaved people before New York abolished slavery in 1827.

Its not clear to me how he spent much of his life between 1820 and 1852. He apparently worked as a farm laborer, and even as a clam digger. When he was 32, he met and married a young widow named Anne Amelia Payne, who took Sands as her last name.

In April 1861, Confederates fired on Fort Sumter in South Carolina, igniting the Civil War.

In January 1864, Hewlett Sands would collect a $300 bounty and join the 26th United States Colored Troops infantry regiment, which prepared for war along with thousands of other soldiers on Rikers Island. His enlistment papers say he was 42, but in fact he was about to turn 44.

According to military records, his regiment  after enduring rugged conditions in camp -- boarded a ship named Warrior in March 1864 bound for South Carolina, where they fought in the battle at Honey Hill and other engagements.

Life after the war for Hewlett Sands was defined by a series of economic hardships. He fell and lost vision in one eye; and he lost an inheritance he intended to pass down to his family through the generations. He died on April 8, 1901, at the age of 81.

But his and Amelias son, James Edward Sands, got married and had two children, one of whom was Alfred Sands. Among Alfreds children was my grandfather Alonzo, who served with his brothers in World War II. In June 1960, Alonzo and Catherine Sands gave birth to a boy, Lonnie, who is my dad.

Like Hewlett Sands, I grew up in Long Island, in the town of Roslyn, where I developed a love for reading. I first read about the life of Martin Luther King at the Bryant Library, and by age 11 was giving speeches about him and his impact on my life. It was in Roslyn, as a boy, that I decided I wanted to be a journalist, after a compassionate Newsday reporter visited to get our family's side of the story in an article about a neighborhood controversy.

Now, working on this Juneteenth story as a journalist, I feel its part of my mission to educate and inform people about all this. And to be able to share it with my dad, my mom  all of my family.

I have a very strong sense of connection to the idea Hewlett Sands risked his life for not just his family, but for a higher ideal. I think all those men shared a sense of doing something that was going to impact generations that they would never meet.

No one living had ever seen Hewlett's grave, and I went just the other day. On a cloudless day, my dad and I discovered his tombstone, inscribed Co. D 26th U.S. INF. Somehow, we felt a little closer to him, and a little closer to each other.

___

Darren Sands is a Washington-based reporter with the AP's Religion Team.

___

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
Judge to give update on woman accused of killing her terminally ill husband inside hospital

A judge is expected to get an update Wednesday on the case against a woman accused of shooting her terminally ill husband in a Volusia County hospital.

Police say 76-year-old Ellen Gilland killed her husband, Jerry, inside AdventHealth in Daytona Beach last year.

They say she also pointed a gun at the officers who responded to the scene before she was arrested.

Watch: Shes lost the love of her life: Niece of woman accused of shooting terminally ill husband speaks

Channel 9 is monitoring what will happen inside the courtroom and will provide updates on Eyewitness News.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Attorneys Josh Hurst (left), Q. Byrum Hurst (right) and their client Dragan Vicentic (second from right) leave the Garland County Courthouse after a hearing on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. A circuit judge will decide whether to grant Vicentic's request for his medical marijuana dispensary to remain open after his license was revoked. (Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate)

This story was updated at 3:55 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2024.

A Hot Springs medical marijuana dispensary must sell or dispose of its products by July 11 after a judge denied the owners request to block the revocation of his license Thursday.

The board of the states Alcoholic Beverage Control Division voted June 12 to uphold Director Christy Bjornsons May 2 decision to revoke Green Springs Medical Marijuana Dispensarys license in light of several violations of the rules for medical marijuana handling and sales.

Green Springs is the first and only dispensary to have its license revoked since the states medical marijuana industry launched in 2019.

Owner Dragan Vicentic appealed the boards decision, and Circuit Court Judge Kara Petro on Thursday denied his request for a stay on the decision.

Petro decision

Between May 2 and the June 12 ABC board hearing, Green Springs sold 203.28 grams of medical marijuana products that had expired a year after their quality assurance testing dates, according to Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration documents presented at Wednesdays hearing. Medical marijuana products lose potency after their expiration date, and the ongoing sale of expired products was among the violations that led to the license revocation.

Vicentic and his attorneys provided no evidence to rebut that the products had expired QA tests and were sold anyway, Petro wrote in her decision.

Additionally, the dispensarys processing area was unsanitary, a required comprehensive inventory had not been completed, some products were unlabeled and some of the marijuana in the inventory system was unaccounted for in the store, according to finance department documents detailing the violations.

Bjornson argued to the ABC board last week that the violations risked clients health. Josh Hurst, one of the attorneys representing Vicentic, asked ABCs two witnesses Wednesday if they were aware of any patients that had been harmed by Green Springs products.

Glen Perciful and Jonathan Vince, both ABC employees, replied that they could not verify any harm to patients through the scope of their jobs.

Dr. Jonathan Wolfe, Green Springs consultant pharmacist, said he was not concerned about any risks to patients safety regarding the dispensarys products.

Patient safety was not the issue at hand in the hearing, ABC senior staff attorney Chip Liebovich argued. The issue at hand was whether the dispensary broke the states rules for the medical marijuana industry and whether the ABC boards decision should stand, he said.

ABC ordered Vicentic in August not to continue selling a list of expired products that enforcement agents found at the dispensary, but he admitted at another inspection in January that he was still selling expired products, according to ABC board documents.

The evidence provided to the court is that the appellant has willfully committed violations and has continued to do so despite sanctions, Petro wrote. There was substantial evidence of failure to comply with a valid directive of the ABC Commission and noncompliance with ABC agents and this noncompliance has continued to this day.

She argued that the public has an interest in quality assurance that merited a denial of Vicentics request to keep the dispensary open.

Green Springs Medical Marijuana Dispensary in Hot Springs on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. (Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate)

The ABC boards decision started a 30-day clock for Vicentic to sell or dispose of the cannabis at the dispensary, and ABC agents will be able to seize any remaining products after the deadline.

Before last weeks ABC hearing, Vicentic had informed the state Medical Marijuana Commission that he plans to sell the license and dispensary. He said Wednesday that he planned to leave the medical marijuana industry entirely if he completed the $3 million sale, he said in response to questions from Liebovich.

The Medical Marijuana Commission will meet Tuesday to discuss its next steps in light of Green Springs license revocation and Vicentics appeal.

Arkansas voters legalized medical marijuana by approving Amendment 98 to the state Constitution in 2016. Green Springs was the second dispensary to open in 2019 upon being licensed; Suite 443, also in Hot Springs, was the first.

Amendment 98 allows the commission to issue 40 dispensary licenses, but only 37 are active since one has been revoked and the remaining two have been delayed by a lawsuit.

Absolute Essence, a Black-owned Little Rock company that applied for a license, sued the commission, the finance department and ABC in January 2022, alleging racial discrimination in the license application process. Pulaski County Circuit Judge Alice Gray issued an injunction the following month, blocking the commission from issuing new licenses until the case is resolved.
CANBERRA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Australia's first nuclear power plants would be operational by 2037 under a plan put forward by the nation's opposition leader.

Peter Dutton, leader of the Liberal-National Coalition, on Wednesday announced his plan to build seven nuclear power stations around Australia if elected Prime Minister at the next general election.

Under the plan, the first two plants would be operational by 2037, with the remaining five online by 2050.

Dutton said all the nuclear power plants would be built at locations where there are currently power stations that have closed or are scheduled to do so and that the facilities would be government-owned.

All the proposed sites are on the Australian mainland, with two each in the eastern states of New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland -- Dutton's home state -- and one each in south-eastern Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia.

Dutton said in a statement that the locations offered important attributes for a zero-emissions nuclear power plant, including cooling water capacity, existing transmission infrastructure and local communities with skilled workforces.

"Every Australian deserves and should expect access to cheaper, cleaner and consistent electricity," he said.

"Of the world's 20 largest economies, Australia is the only one not using nuclear energy, or moving towards it."

The federal government has had a ban on nuclear power in place in 1998 that would have to be overturned for Dutton's plan to go ahead.

Queensland, NSW and Victoria also have their own bans in place, but Dutton said he would work with the state premiers on the issue.

The governing federal Labor Party as well as the incumbent leaders of all three states have previously ruled out repealing the bans.

Appearing on state media Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio on Wednesday, PM Anthony Albanese said Dutton's plan overlooks Australia's renewable energy potential.

"It'll be a taxpayer funded nuclear fantasy," he said.

"Here in Australia, we have the best solar resources in the world."

A report published by national science agency the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation in May found that a large-scale nuclear reactor in Australia would generate electricity at more than twice the cost of onshore wind farms and solar photovoltaic (PV) technology in 2040. 
The exterior of Planned Parenthood Reproductive Health Services Center is seen on May 31, 2019 in St. Louis (Photo by Michael Thomas/Getty Images).

A lawsuit filed by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey accusing Planned Parenthood of transporting minors out of state for abortions will move forward, a judge ruled Tuesday evening.

The lawsuit is based on conversations between Planned Parenthood staff and a man with Project Veritas who secretly filmed the staff while inquiring about an abortion for his fake 13-year-old niece.

Planned Parenthood Great Plains, which runs the Kansas City area clinic where the video was taken, asked that the judge dismiss the lawsuit shortly after it was filed.

Were reviewing all our options and will continue to vigorously defend this case based on hypotheticals and fictitious patients, Erin Thompson, general counsel with Planned Parenthood Great Plain, said in a statement Wednesday.

At a hearing in early June, John Andrew Hirth, an attorney for Planned Parenthood, said there was no proof the Kansas City area clinic broke the law.

Theres no allegation that any abortion has been performed either in Missouri or outside of Missouri, with or without parental consent here, Hirth said. The whole conversation is hypothetical.

But Boone County Judge Brouck Jacobs found merit for moving forward with the case. He did not issue an opinion along with his ruling explaining his reasoning.

This is the beginning of the end for Planned Parenthood in the State of Missouri, Bailey said in a statement Tuesday following the ruling.

The video, captured in December, was posted on social media by Project Veritas, a self-proclaimed right wing news organization that often conducts undercover stings.

The man filming in the clinic told staff that the made-up girls parents couldnt know about the abortion. Staff then directed him to their affiliate clinics in Kansas where they said he could bypass parental consent. When the man asked how often girls go out of state for abortions, the Planned Parenthood employee said it happens every day.

Kathryn Monroe, who represented the attorney generals office at the hearing, said while the mans questions were hypothetical, the employee at Planned Parenthood thought the situation was real.

There was admitted conduct about what they would do in this actual situation, she said.

The attorney generals office in its arguments before the court pointed to Missouri law which states: No one shall intentionally cause aid or assist a minor to obtain an abortion.

That law was written before the states trigger law went into place in June 2022, effectively making all abortions  with the exception of life-threatening situations  illegal.

Missouri doesnt have explicit laws requiring parental consent for minors getting abortions in other states, nor does it prohibit minors from going to other states to get abortions.

Kansas law requires physicians to either obtain parental consent or to go through the judicial bypass process where a judge can authorize a minor to get an abortion without parental consent.

A spokesperson for Planned Parenthood Great Plains said in February that they do not provide any form of transportation directly to any patients, regardless of age or where they live.

The post Judge denies Planned Parenthoods request to dismiss suit based on Project Veritas video appeared first on Missouri Independent.
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit concerning the software X (formerly Twitter) uses to find illegal porn images. The suit was brought by Mark Martell, who objected to X using Microsoft's PhotoDNA software.

Martell argued that PhotoDNAwhich is used across the tech industry to detect and report child pornrequired the collection of biometric data and that this collection violated Illinois' Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA).

A win for Martell could have imperiled the use of PhotoDNA and similar software by all sorts of tech companies, thwarting tools that have proved useful in fighting sexually explicit images of minors, non-consensual adult pornography (a.k.a. "revenge porn"), terroristic images, and extremely violent content. Tech companies voluntarily employ these tools in a way that seems minimally invasive to the privacy of your average userno biometric data collection actually required.

So, while "dude loses biometric privacy suit against big tech" may seem on its surface like a sad story, it's probably good news that U.S. District Judge Sunil R. Harjani granted X's motion to dismiss the case.

PhotoDNA 'cannot be used to identify a person'

"An Illinois federal judge has thrown out a proposed class action accusing X Corp. of violating the state's biometric privacy law through its use of software to police pornographic images," Law360 explains. Reading that summary, I'll admit, I was prepared to be outraged about the decision. But upon closer examination, the ruling seems like a good one.

This is not actually a case about X using biometric data, nor about X using it to police sex workers or adult sexuality.

Martell's objections center on the use of hashes, which function as a sort of secret signature attached to digital photos. Using PhotoDNA, X assigns hashes to newly uploaded photos and compares these to hashes in an existing database.

Hashes can be a powerful tool in fighting known objectionable content, helping platforms identify such content and prevent it from being reposted endlessly. Using a database of known (illegal or objectionable) images that have already been assigned hashes, tech companies can easily compare newly uploaded images against this database and flag them for further review.

Of course, any tools used to moderate bad stuff must be weighed against their potential to cross privacy lines. If X was using PhotoDNA to do facial recognition on all posted images (or all potentially explicit images), that would be cause for concern.

But it doesn't seem that's what the PhotoDNA software does.

"PhotoDNA is not facial recognition software and cannot be used to identify a person or object in an image," according to Microsoft.

Illinois Biometric Act Explicitly Excludes Photos

In his complaint, Martell argued that the hash creation process necessarily involved facial scans. But Martell "did not allege facts indicating that the hash is a scan of face geometry, as opposed to merely a record of the photo," Harjani wrote.

I might be missing something, but the method employed here doesn't seem particularly worrying from a privacy perspective.

Nor does it fall within the confines of the Illinois BIPA.

BIPA applies when biometric identifiers are used to identify individuals and defines "biometric identifier" as "a retina or iris scan, fingerprint, voiceprint, or scan of hand or face geometry." The lawwhich explicitly excludes photos from the definition of biometric identifiersrequires companies to provide written notice and receive explicit consent before collecting "an individual's biometric identifier used to identify an individual."

"Allegations that a photo was scanned are insufficient to plausibly allege that PhotoDNA creates a scan of an individual's face geometry under BIPA," writes Judge Harjani in his decision. "He failed to allege that any type of facial scan occurs during the hash creation process. Without that, there can be no scan of face geometry which could be used to identify an individual, as is required to be considered a biometric identifier under BIPA."

The judge left Martell open to file an amended complaint if possible.

More Sex & Tech News

Netflix has announced the first two cities for its gigantic new in-person experience venues, slated to open in 2025. The new Netflix Houses  to open next year in King of Prussia, Pa. and Dallas  will feature a wide array of shopping, eateries and experiential activities tied pic.twitter.com/DRGvr2Pe0t  Variety (@Variety) June 18, 2024

 D.M. Bennett, publisher of The Truth Seeker, was convicted in 1879 of violating the Comstock Act by publishing an Ezra Heywood critique of marriage. The Comstock Act is a Victorian-era law that prophets mailing "obscene, lewd, or lascivious" material, and some conservatives want to revive it today to go after abortion pills. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) has launched a campaign to get the Biden administration to posthumously pardon Bennett and "also to put the administration on record in opposing the resurgence of this law that threatens the rights of all Americans," writes FIRE lawyer Robert Corn-Revere.

 "What the public needs to understand" about the Supreme Court's mifepristone ruling last week "is that this is a procedural ruling and not a proclamation that the distribution of mifepristone is lawful or that birth control is protected by the Constitution," said University of Colorado Law School professor Aya Gruber (author of the very excellent book The Feminist War on Crime). "Plaintiffs with standing may lodge the same challenge that the [U.S. Food and Drug Administration] lacked authority to approve mifepristone. Additionally, pro-life groups are dusting off an 1800s obscenity law, the 'Comstock Act,' to argue for a national ban on abortion and 'abortifacient' drugs, equipment, and even information. This fight is far from over."

 Law professor Nadine Strossen will be chatting with the Woodhull Freedom Foundation's Ricci Levy about free speech tomorrow at 1 p.m., in a talk you can watch online. (Read my interview with Strossen earlier this year here and here.)

 "California lawmakers are debating an ill-advised bill that would require internet users to show their ID in order to look at sexually explicit content," notes the Electronic Frontier Foundation, which is trying to rally opposition to the measure (Assembly Bill 3080).

Today's Image

Las Vegas | 2020 (ENB/Reason)

The post Judge Tosses Biometric Data Suit Against X appeared first on Reason.com.
In conversation with theGrio, illustrator and Meghan Markle collaborator Christian Robinson discusses the inspiration behind the 2024 Juneteenth Google Doodle and art as liberation.

As Juneteenth celebrations kick off globally to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States post-Civil War, a timely piece of art will serve as a reminder for anyone who uses Googles search engine.

Christian Robinson, an American illustrator and animator of childrens books, was tapped by Google as the 2024 guest artist to create its Juneteenth Doodle. Speaking with theGrio, Robinson discussed what inspired his design.

If Juneteenth is about celebrating the freedom from slavery and all that oppression and pain, I thought, Whats the opposite of that? And for me, it was play, joy and leisure, he said. So, thats what I wanted to show. Its just kids having a good time; the descendants of enslaved people living their best lives, you know?

While this isnt his first Google Doodle  or the first time hes been on a global stage, having worked with Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, on her bestselling childrens book The Bench, Robinson emphasizes that this smaller piece of work has the same goal as other projects: to effect change and make a difference in peoples lives.

For me, it is just about telling stories and creating images that I hope can be encouraging and empowering to make people feel seen and recognized and know that their experience matters, he told theGrio.

When asked about the creative process for choosing the Doodles colors, Robinson noted the illustrations red, yellow and green palette was inspired by the African-American flag and its association withAfrocentric powerful colors.

[The] African-American Flag represents a celebration of liberty and remembrance of freedom denied, noted Kevin Young, Andrew W. Mellon Director of the Smithsonians National Museum of African American History and Culture.

In this years Juneteenth Doodle, kids can be seen jumping double-dutch, a sport that holds cultural significance for Black Americans to socialize, play and feel liberated.

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Many artists reveal aspects of themselves in their work. As for Robinson, he said, Art has been my liberation and still continues to liberate me to this day.

It helps me work through things, it helps me make sense of things, it helps free me of things, he added.

Having grown up in poverty, Robinson now leverages his experience and talent for good. He previously partnered with Target to remind children they matter through his product line and illustration in the book The Last Stop on Market Street.

Robinson told theGrio he is working on releasing a new picture book soon, but in the meantime, hes reimagining his own story.

So early on in my life, so much of what I wanted was shaped by just not having those basic needs met, he said. Those basic resources and fear of scarcity and so now, Im in a place of actually having some sense of security.

As Googles users engage with Robinsons artwork this Juneteenth, its impact extends beyond just inspiring others. It also signifies the illustrators own journey toward emancipation.

Eden Harris is an award-winning journalist from DC who enjoys writing about Africa and its many cultures. She worked as a national politics producer for Spectrum News and is a rising leader in foreign affairs and at the National Press Club.

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As Americans recognize Juneteenth this week, many reflect on how far the community has come over the past 159 years.

It's a moment of remembrance for the sacrifices and horrors of slavery, said Karlos Hill, a regents professor of the Clara Luper Department of African and African American Studies at the University of Oklahoma. But Juneteenth is also a moment to remember the community and families that were built, and the resilience enslaved people offered.

"It's been an important moment for the Black community for remembrance and for revival," Hill said. "The revival part of Juneteenth is that part that inspires us, motivates us to get active and engaged with the legacies of slavery in the hopes of doing something about the ways in which slavery shows up today."

Though free, not all enforced in Oklahoma

Though Oklahoma's history of slavery isn't as long or significant as other Southern states, descendants of enslaved people living in Oklahoma today still note the state's unique past with tribal nations at the end of the Civil War in 1865.

African American slavery was established in the Indian Territory in the 1830s.

Native Americans from the Five Tribes  the Cherokee, Muscogee (Creek), Choctaw, Chickasaw and Seminole  were forcefully removed from the Southeast during the 1830s and 1840s. They marched a difficult journey known as the "Trail of Tears" to Indian Territory, or present-day Oklahoma.

Opinion: Celebrating Juneteenth isn't rejecting the Fourth of July. It honors freedom for all

Among them were enslaved African Americans.

"One of the worst moments in Oklahoma history, the Trail of Tears, made doubly so by enslaved people being brought with them on that horrific journey," Hill said.

Photograph of African American, "Lee Crook" for field crew, Dawes Commission photo by Grant Foreman.

When the Civil War began in 1861, more than 8,000 African Americans were enslaved in the area, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society. Enslaved people were considered property in each of the Five Tribes, and their labor was exploited for their masters' profit.

The tribes aligned themselves with the Confederacy because they were slaveholders meshed within the Southern extractive type of economy based on plantation agriculture, according to Matthew Pearce, Oklahoma's state historian.

Slavery existed in Indian Territory until the Reconstruction Treaties of 1866 abolished slavery and extended citizenship, including land rights, to the freed slaves.

While the Emancipation Proclamation freed all African American slaves in the Confederate states in 1863, it was not enforced in areas still under Confederate control, according to Britannica. The Civil War ended in April 1865, and on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers delivered the message in Galveston, Texas, that the war was over and the Emancipation Proclamation was now enforceable.

However, the issue of citizenship rights for Freedmen was not a linear, clean-cut process, Pearce said. Negations regarding the Reconstruction Treaties differed between tribal nations.

Photograph of Caroline Prince, Choctaw Freedman, house in the Oak Hill Community.

For example, the treaty that was signed with the Seminole Nation granted full citizenship rights to Freedman, Pearce said. The Choctaw Nation, by contrast, did not grant citizenship rights until 1883.

In 1889, the federal government opened the Unassigned Lands of Indian Territory to new settlers, and African Americans joined the migration to establish claims to land or to help develop towns, including some small all-Black communities in southern and central Oklahoma, according to the Oklahoma Historical Society.

Many migrants came from Texas and brought Juneteenth celebrations to Oklahoma, which became a full day of activities, speeches and events in historically Black towns.

In June 1974, a parade of automobiles, bicyclists and horseback riders travel to Lincoln Park's zoo amphitheater for Oklahoma City's fourth annual Juneteenth celebration. BLAC Inc. organized the festivities, which included musical performances by bands and choirs, poetry readings and a Black heritage presentation.

Celebrations dwindled as African Americans joined the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, according to the society. However, by the 1980s, cities in Oklahoma revived traditional observances and included parades, jazz festivals and arts and crafts exhibitions.

Why Oklahoma's history matters

Today, descendants are still fighting for recognition from the tribes.

Last year, two descendants of Black slaves who were once owned by tribal members were granted Muscogee (Creek) citizenship by a judge after suing the tribe's citizenship board for denying their applications.

Like Oklahoma, the consequences of slavery are seen all over the country, especially regarding violence against Black people. Hill said the main legacy of slavery is the U.S.'s indifference to the suffering of Black people today.

"It's not just an indifference to that suffering. We also continue to attempt to control Black people and Black bodies through violence," Hill said. "Police brutality, mass incarceration, those are the forms of violence that persist post-slavery that touch Black people disproportionately more than all other Americans."

Hill cited the death of George Floyd in 2020 where the world saw Floyd being murdered by a police officer in a video lasting 9 minutes and 29 seconds.

"There was all kinds of outrage and protests in America and around the world, and to this day, there has been zero legislative reform at the national level related to policing," Hill said. "That's the indifference, right?"

"We saw the violence, but the indifference is the refusal to do anything, or even to say anything, until there's another George Floyd, and we go through that whole process again, right? That, to me, is a direct connection with slavery and the ways in which, over 250 years, we were indifferent to Black people suffering."

'Jokers Yild,' an Oklahoma City band, performes at a Juneteenth Festival of Freedom in 1978 in Oklahoma City.

Hill said the exploitation of Black labor and wealth is worth trillions of dollars that Black people have never experienced. It's this wealth that allows the U.S. to be "the greatest country in the world."

Enslaved people built railroads that shipped cotton picked by them on trains. This cotton built businesses in New York City that financed the crop, Hill said.

"We must remember that, if we're going to remember Juneteenth authentically, that enslaved people built our country," Hill said. "Enslaved people got nothing from building our country but lashes. They got nothing but separation from families. They got nothing but the worst of what we could offer, right? So the least we can do is remember their contribution, remember their sacrifices and suffering on Juneteenth."

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Juneteenth 2024: How Oklahoma's unique history still has an impact
Juneteenth marks the second American Independence Day. What does that Mean? Lets get to it.

In 1865, enslaved Americans were freed. President Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation was supposed to mean the end of enslavement, but slavery still dominated in Confederate states during the Civil War. It wasnt until Union troops arrived in Texas on June 19 to share news of the wars end that all enslaved people were freed. A broken promise? In a way ...yes. Regardless, Juneteenth is considered the oldest running African American holiday, according to History.com. It was declared a national holiday in 2021, 156 years after slaverys end.

As we celebrate Juneteenth this year, lets look at American history and other times when Black Americans were made promises that were never kept.

40 Acres and a Mule

Youve heard the phrase 40 Acres and a Mule, but dont know where in history it comes from?

With the Emancipation Proclamation ending slavery in Union States, the question became how to help newly freed people integrate into the rest of society. In January 1865, Union General William T. Sherman, most famous for his March to the Sea from Atlanta to Savannah, Georgia, announced his Special Field Order 15, which suggested giving 40 acres of land to each Black family along the coast. The mule part came later when some families received leftover mules from soldiers.

Shermans order did not last long. President Andrew Johnson quickly overturned the order, taking the land from Black families and returning it to slave owners.

The Great Hope of Reconstruction

A view of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, a park built by the Equal Justice Initiative to pay tribute and honor the over 4,000 African Americans who were murdered in acts of racial terrorism across America during the Jim Crow era of racial segregation - Image: Andrew Lichtenstein (Getty Images)

Right after the Civil War, America promised to do better by Black folks. This period from 1865 to 1877 was known as Reconstruction. The US government proposed plans, laws, and government systems which aimed to help integrate formerly enslaved people into society, and for a short period, it worked.

With the 13th Amendment, African Americans became citizens and enjoyed some of the perks of citizenship including the right to vote and the right to marry. The Equal Justice Initiative reports 16 Black people were elected to Congress, over 600 were elected to state legislatures, and even more held offices locally.

It seemed like America was ready to move past slavery and rebuild a nation which would represent all Americans. Reconstruction was seen as a political success until federal troops were pulled out of the south in 1877, and Jim Crow laws were passed. During this time, Black Americans throughout the country were denied their right to vote and more than 4,000 Black Americans were lynched, reports The Equal Justice Initiative.

Separate but Equal-ish

Attorneys who argued the case against segregation stand together smiling in front of the U.S. Supreme Court Building after the High Tribunal ruled that segregtion in public schoolsis unconstitutional. Left to right are: George E.C. Hayes, Washington, DC; Thurgood Marshall, special counsel for the NAACP; and James Nabrit, Jr., Progessor and Attorney at law at Howard University in Washington - Image: Bettmann (Getty Images)

One of the most important Supreme Court cases in American history is that of Plessy vs. Ferguson. Homer Plessy, who was only one-eighth Black, was arrested after sitting in a white compartment of a train, according to the National archives.

Plessy took his case all the way to the Supreme court in 1896. In a seven to one vote, separate but equal was constitutionally ratified. Black people were promised the right to full citizenship through the 14th Amendment, but separate but equal provided justification for racial discrimination in all aspects of American life. As long as there was a Black school for every white one, segregation was allowed even if that Black school had little to no resources.

This historic case legalized segregation, and the ruling stood strong until Brown vs. The Board of Education in 1954.

Speaking of Brown vs. The Board of Education...

Image: Don & Melinda Crawford (Getty Images)

During the height of the Civil Rights Movement, a Kansas City minister named Oliver Brown filed a class action lawsuit after his Black daughter was not allowed to attend an all white school.

The case reached The Supreme Court in 1954. Then lawyer, Thurgood Marshall argued separate but equal education had negative effects on Black students with limited resources, and with that, The Supreme Court banned segregation in public schools.

Like most decisions concerning race, the 1954 ruling did not go over well with white Americans who feared integration. Black students attempting to attend white schools were met with violence, death threats, and harassment. Soon after the ruling, Arkansas Governor Orval Faubus called in the National Guard to prevent nine Black students from attending their local white high school. These nine students would be remembered as the Little Rock Nine. Today, public schools in the United States are more segregated than ever.

The Double V Campaign and The GI Bill of 1944

Reenactors of the US Civil War era African-American 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment take part in the opening ceremony of the Public Mass Meeting of the 114th National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) - Image: Joseph Prezioso (Getty Images)

More than one million Black soldiers fought during World War II under the Double V campaign. According to The National Museum of African American history and culture, the campaign promoted the idea of fighting oppression overseas and then tackling Jim Crow and racial oppression in the US. The campaign gave African Americans a sense of American pride and hope for a desegregated future.

Once the war was over and soldiers returned home, this hope was quickly diminished. Black veterans were harassed and killed for wearing their uniforms in public. Even government assistance from the GI Bill of 1944, which was established to help WWII veterans reacclimate into American society, was denied to Black soldiers.

New Deal, Same ole Tricks

President Franklin D. Roosevelt - Image: Keystone Features (Getty Images)

Even in the middle of the Great Depression, the US government still found a way to exclude Black Americans. According to Britannica, President Franklin Roosevelts New Deal was a two fold program designed to pull the nation out of the Great Depression by providing government assistance and persuading Black and brown voters to align more with the Democratic party.

His plan worked. Today, 83 percent of Black voters are democrats, reports the Pew Research Center, but what was the catch?

The fine print of the New Deal did not protect Black people as they hoped. Working class Black folk were cut out of government programs like social security, according to The Rockefeller Foundation.

Instead of helping all Americans, the New Deal helped to widen the economic gap between white and Black America.

The Controversial Story of Henrietta Lacks

Attorney Ben Crump speaks at a news conference after the family of Henrietta Lacks agreed to settle its lawsuit against Thermo Fisher Scientific, a biotechnology company that sold products derived from the Baltimore County residents cells - Image: Jerry Jackson (Getty Images)

In 1951, Henrietta Lacks died from cervical cancer at age 31. She had been a patient at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and it wasnt until decades later when it was discovered that her cells were sold to researchers without her or her familys consent, according to John Hopkins Medicine.

Lacks cells, now known as HeLa cells, have been used as a scientific research tool to create vaccines and conduct research on cancer even helping with the COVID-19 vaccine. This was done without her family knowledge.

In 2023, her family finally reached a settlement with the biotech company accused of stealing Lacks cells, reports AP News.

Affirming Affirmative Action

Proponents of affirmative action hold signs during a protest at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on July 1, 2023 - Image: Joseph Prezioso (Getty Images)

Affirmative Action as we know it today began in 1961 as President John F. Kennedys attempt to ensure all job applicants and employees were treated equally, regardless of race, creed, color or national origin, according to History.com

Affirmative Action helped get minorities, especially Black people and women, through doors that otherwise would be shut in their faces.

In 2023, Affirmative Action was deemed unconstitutional and unnecessary, despite continued concerns over lack of diversity and inclusion in collegiate and professional spaces, according to the Pew Research Center.

Reparations: The Ultimate Payback

Mayor Brandon Johnson speak onstage during the 2024 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards at Lyric Opera Of Chicago - Image: Daniel Boczarski (Getty Images)

Forty acres and a mule was the start of reparations for formerly enslaved Americans and their descendants. Since then, there have been many attempts to collect reparations, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson recently launching a task force to study and examination of all policies that have harmed Black Chicagoans from slavery to now, reports Time.

The interesting thing is the US government has awarded reparations to other minority groups like the Japanese after World War II, according to the National World War II Museum. This is proof that America is indeed capable of acknowledging its wrongdoings and righting the wrongs of the past. For Black Americans, however, this promise remains unfulfilled.

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Juneteenth, a federal holiday observed every June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. Heres a look at how it came to be.

Why June 19?

That was the date in 1865 when Union Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that slavery had been abolished. Texas was the last state where it was being practiced, and communications being what they were at the time, word had not reached there until then.

President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation September 22, 1862, and it took effect January 1, 1863, freeing slaves in all states that had seceded and joined the Confederacy  not that it was possible to enforce it universally, as the Civil War would continue nearly two and a half years longer. Gen. Robert E. Lee, the top Confederate commander, surrendered in April 1865, but Confederate forces in the west kept on fighting, finally surrendering on June 2. By then, many Southerners had brought the people they held in slavery to Texas, considered out of the reach of the Union Army.

Granger had no idea that, in establishing the Union Armys authority over the people of Texas, he was also establishing the basis for a holiday, Juneteenth (June plus nineteenth), today the most popular annual celebration of emancipation from slavery in the United States, historian Henry Louis Gates Jr. wrote in an essay published a few years ago on The Root and PBS.org.

How was Juneteenth initially celebrated?

Life remained brutal for formerly enslaved Black people in Texas and elsewhere long after the end of the Civil War. In Texas, some slaveholders didnt deliver the news to the people they held in bondage or simply failed to treat them as free, even though Grangers proclamation said former slaves should be considered hired labor and paid wages. African Americans who left their former masters were often hunted down and killed. The post-Civil War era known as Reconstruction allowed African Americans to exercise some political and economic rights, including voting and running for office. But the end of Reconstruction in 1877, with the withdrawal of federal troops from the South, meant there was no longer enforcement of any laws conferring those rights. Black people were disenfranchised, and many had to work as sharecroppers on the plantations where they had been enslaved. Racism was enshrined in laws, and lynching  the murder of Black Americans for any perceived transgression  became common.

But Black Americans persevered. In 1866, those in Texas celebrated the first anniversary of Juneteenth. The observances became a fixture in Texas over the succeeding years, with celebrants dressing in their finest clothes and gathering for a feast along with games, religious services, speeches, and political organizing. When white officials banned access to certain public parks, Black residents established their own spaces.

African Americans in other parts of the U.S. sometimes celebrated emancipation on other milestone dates  September 22 or January 1 for the Emancipation Proclamation, January 31 for Congresss passage of the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865, abolishing slavery throughout the nation (a few states that allowed slavery had not seceded and were therefore not affected by the Emancipation Proclamation), or a few other dates. But as Black Texans migrated to other states, they brought the Juneteenth tradition with them  plus the date was one that usually promised good weather for outdoor events.

Juneteenth observances waned somewhat by the mid-20th century, as a romanticized, hugely inaccurate view of the antebellum South had spread through the nation, and racist laws and attitudes endured. But interest in the date was renewed in the 1960s with the civil rights movement. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. had been planning a Poor Peoples March, highlighting class inequality, at the time of his assassination in April 1968. His colleagues went ahead with the plan, but the march was not as large as they had hoped, so they ended it ahead of schedule  on June 19, 1968. That brought new attention to the dates significance, and since then Juneteenth has been celebrated widely.

How did Juneteenth become a federal holiday?

It was a state holiday first. Texas passed a bill in 1979 making it a state holiday; the bills champion was Rep. Al Edwards, who became known as Mr. Juneteenth. More than 40 other states and the District of Columbia went on to give Juneteenth some form of recognition, but few had made it a paid holiday.

Then in 2021, President Joe Biden signed a bill into law establishing June 19 as Juneteenth National Independence Day. The bills leading sponsors included Democratic Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas, Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas, and Democratic Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts. Before Kamala Harris became Bidens vice president, she had championed the action as a U.S. senator. Support for making Juneteenth a federal holiday had gained momentum after the widespread outrage over the murder of Black man George Floyd by Minneapolis police in 2020. It was the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983.

Biden said signing the bill was one of the greatest honors I will have as president. He noted that Opal Lee, an activist who had pushed tirelessly for the move, was present at the ceremony, and he pointed out that establishing the holiday was merely a step toward equality. We cant rest until the promise of equality if fulfilled for every one of us in every corner of this nation. That to me is the meaning of Juneteenth, Biden said.
TULSA, OK - JUNE 19: A man displays a shirt celebrating the freedom of enslaved Black people during the Juneteenth celebration in the Greenwood District on June 19, 2020 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when a Union general read orders in Galveston, Texas stating all enslaved people in Texas were free according to federal law. (Photo by Michael B. Thomas/Getty Images)

The actual day was June 19, 1865, and it was the Black dockworkers in Galveston, Texas, who first heard the word that freedom for the enslaved had come. There were speeches, sermons and shared meals, mostly held at Black churches, the safest places to have such celebrations.

The perils of unjust laws and racist social customs were still great in Texas for the 250,000 enslaved Black people there, but the celebrations known as Juneteenth were said to have gone on for seven straight days.

The spontaneous jubilation was partly over Gen. Gordon Grangers General Order No. 3. It read in part, The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.

But the emancipation that took place in Texas that day in 1865 was just the latest in a series of emancipations that had been unfolding since the 1770s, most notably the Emancipation Proclamation signed by President Abraham Lincoln two years earlier on Jan. 1, 1863.

As I explore in my book Black Ghost of Empire, between the 1780s and 1930s, during the era of liberal empire and the rise of modern humanitarianism, over 80 emancipations from slavery occurred, from Pennsylvania in 1780 to Sierra Leone in 1936.

There were, in fact, 20 separate emancipations in the

United States alone, from 1780 to 1865, across the U.S. North and South.

In my view as a scholar of race and colonialism, Emancipation Days  Juneteenth in Texas  are not what many people think, because emancipation did not do what most of us think it did.

As historians have long documented, emancipations did not remove all the shackles that prevented Black people from obtaining full citizenship rights. Nor did emancipations prevent states from enacting their own laws that prohibited Black people from voting or living in white neighborhoods.

In fact, based on my research, emancipations were actually designed to force Blacks and the federal government to pay reparations to slave owners  not to the enslaved  thus ensuring white people maintained advantages in accruing and passing down wealth across generations..

Reparations to slave owners

The emancipations shared three common features that, when added together, merely freed the enslaved in one sense, but reenslaved them in another sense.

The first, arguably the most important, was the ideology of gradualism, which said that atrocities against Black people would be ended slowly, over a long and open-ended period.

The second feature was state legislators who held fast to the racist principle that emancipated people were units of slave owner property  not captives who had been subjected to crimes against humanity.

The third was the insistence that Black people had to take on various forms of debt in order to exit slavery. This included economic debt, exacted by the ongoing forced and underpaid work that freed people had to pay to slave owners.

In essence, freed people had to pay for their freedom, while enslavers had to be paid to allow them to be free.

Emancipation myths and realities

On March 1, 1780, for instance, Pennsylvanias state Legislature set a global precedent for how emancipations would pay reparations to slave owners and buttress the system of white property rule.

The Pennsylvania Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery stipulated that all persons, as well negroes, and mulattos, as others, who shall be born within this State, from and after the Passing of this Act, shall not be deemed and considered as Servants for Life or Slaves.

At the same time, the legislation prescribed that every negroe and mulatto child born within this State could be held in servitude unto the age of twenty eight Years and liable to like correction and punishment as enslaved people.

After that first Emancipation Day in Pennsylvania, enslaved people still remained in bondage for the rest of their lives, unless voluntarily freed by slave owners.

Only the newborn children of enslaved women were nominally free after Emancipation Day. Even then, these children were forced to serve as bonded laborers from childhood until their 28th birthday.

All future emancipations shared the Pennsylvania DNA.

Emancipation Day came to Connecticut and Rhode Island on March 1, 1784. On July 4, 1799, it dawned in New York, and on July 4, 1804, in New Jersey. After 1838, West Indian people in the United States began commemorating the British Empires Emancipation Day of Aug. 1.

The District of Columbias day came on April 16, 1862.

Eight months later, on Jan. 1, 1863, President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation that freed the enslaved only in Confederate states  not in the states loyal to the Union, such as New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Kentucky and Missouri.

Emancipation Day dawned in Maryland on Nov. 1, 1864. In the following year, emancipation was granted on April 3 in Virginia, on May 8 in Mississippi, on May 20 in Florida, on May 29 in Georgia, on June 19 in Texas and on Aug. 8 in Tennessee and Kentucky.

Slavery by another name

After the Civil War, the three Reconstruction Amendments to the U.S. Constitution each contained loopholes that aided the ongoing oppression of Black communities.

The Thirteenth Amendment of 1865 allowed for the enslavement of incarcerated people through convict leasing.

The Fourteenth Amendment of 1868 permitted incarcerated people to be denied the right to vote.

And the Fifteenth Amendment of 1870 failed to explicitly ban forms of voter suppression that targeted Black voters and would intensify during the coming Jim Crow era.

In fact, Grangers Order No. 3, on June 19, 1865, spelled it out.

Freeing the slaves, the order read, involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property, between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them, become that between employer and hired labor.

Yet, the order further states: The freed are advised to remain at their present homes, and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts; and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.

The meaning of Juneteenth

Since the moment emancipation celebrations started on March 1, 1780, all the way up to June 19, 1865, Black crowds gathered to seek redress for slavery.

On that first Juneteenth in Texas, and increasingly so during the ones that followed, free people celebrated their resilience amid the failure of emancipation to bring full freedom.

They stood for the end of debt bondage, racial policing and discriminatory laws that unjustly harmed Black communities. They elevated their collective imagination from out of the spiritual sinkhole of white property rule.

Over the decades, the traditions of Juneteenth ripened into larger gatherings in public parks, with barbecue picnics and firecrackers and street parades with brass bands.

At the end of his 1999 posthumously published novel, Juneteenth, noted Black author Ralph Ellison called for a poignant question to be asked on Emancipation Day: How the hell do we get love into politics or compassion into history?

The question calls for a pause as much today as ever before.

Kris Manjapra, Professor of History, Tufts University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The post Juneteenth celebrates just one of the United States 20 emancipation days appeared first on New Jersey Monitor.
We understandably think of slavery in terms of the brutal terms of which it consists. But it can also be properly understood by what it lacks: freedomover where someone can work, can live, can move. Just as darkness is the absence of light, enslavement is the absence of liberty. By any measure, Juneteenth, the holiday today that commemorates the abolition of chattel slavery in the U.S., is a good day.

On June 19, 1865, about two and a half months after the Civil War had ended, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger set in motion the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamationwhich President Abraham Lincoln had signed over two years prioralerting slaves in Galveston, Texas, that they were no longer in bondage. Some slaves in the U.S. would remain in captivity until the Thirteenth Amendment was ratified in December 1865, and even afterward, that's not to say their newfound freedom was all that free; they would go on to face yearslong, enormous barriers to equality and liberty. Still, Juneteenth represents a page-turning from one of the most shameful chapters in American history.

That is the epitome of a cause worth celebrating, irrespective of where someone falls on the political spectrum. Yet it has not been entirely without controversy. About 43 percent of Republicans, for example, reportedly oppose its inclusion in school curricula when compared to 89 percent of Democrats, according to a YouGov poll. Though it's hard to know precisely why, it may come down, at least in part, to ever-present culture war fracturing. The GOP in some sense still fashions itself as the party of freedom. Slavery, again, is the absence of freedom. In theory, learning about the history behind Juneteenth should buttress, not detract, any platform that claims to advocate for liberty.

On the flip side of the coin, as Reason's Elizabeth Nolan Brown outlined in 2022, there are continuing discussions around the notion that Juneteenth should essentially be reserved for black peoplethat it is not something that can unite Americans. African Americans were the ones who suffered under slavery, after all, impacting families for generations. But to argue that the celebration of its abolition is exclusive based on race is to dignify some of those fears that this is somehow a partisan or divisive topic. I would like to think these objections exist more on the outskirts. Slavery is bad. Freedom is good.

Opal Lee, the 97-year-old "grandmother of Juneteenth" who fought for the holiday's recognition, agrees it really is that simple. "It means freedom for everybody. Not just Black folk or Texas folk," she said. "Freedom for everyone." When Lee was 12 years old, a mob of hundreds arrived at her house in Fort Worth, Texas, smashing windows and furniture, angered that a black family had moved in. The day? June 19. Last week, she got the keys to her new house, built by Habitat for Humanity, on that same lot. It's a reminder that these dark periods were really not very long ago.

Even across that time, though, freedom was supposedly core to American exceptionalism, despite that we quite clearly did not live up to that. But to this day, it has mostly survived as the ideal this country should chase. That's not to say it means the same thing to everyone; people of different persuasions have very different views of what a free society should look like.

But there is one thing freedom cannot mean: slavery. Its death is a victory for everyone.

The post Juneteenth Is a Celebration of Freedom appeared first on Reason.com.
Juneteenth events 2024: Whats happening on the day of the celebration

On Wednesday, Americans celebrate June 19, also called Juneteenth National Independence Day. Its an American holiday celebrating the date when the last slaves in the United States were freed after the Civil War.

While President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation more than two years earlier, the final enforcement of the order was officially carried out two months after the end of the Civil War, on June 19, 1865.

Slaves in Galveston, Texas were the last to learn they were free when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the proclamation be enforced.

The date later became a celebration, featuring parades, festivals and cookouts across the U.S., but it wasnt a federally recognized holiday until 2021, when President Joe Biden made it into an official federal holiday. The State of Georgia did the same, making it a state holiday in 2022.

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Juneteenth: What is it; what to know about the holiday that celebrates slaverys end

Heres a list of events and service projects happening around the metro Atlanta area Wednesday for Juneteenth.

If you see an event youd like added to the list, email the Channel 2 Action News Assignment Desk at newstip@wsbtv.com.

Atlanta Juneteenth Parade and Music Festival

The 12th Annual Juneteenth Atlanta Parade and Music Festival will be held the weekend after Juneteenth, running from Friday June 21 to Sunday June 23 at Piedmont Park. Multiple events are expected throughout the weekend.

The City of Atlanta will hold a Juneteenth Black History Parade, featuring floats, fly-over jets, dance troops and more on Saturday, June 22, starting at noon.

Juneteenth Atlanta will hold a 5K Freedom Run in honor of Juneteenth on June 23, registration is open here.

College Park Juneteenth Parade

Atlanta isnt the only metro area city holding a parade for their Juneteenth celebrations.

College Park will hold their own parade, starting at 10 a.m. before a series of events for families, residents and more fill the afternoon and evening.

Heres what College Park has planned:

Parade  10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Movie on the Lawn  1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Vendor Fair  4 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Kids Zone  4 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Music on the Lawn  6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Roswell hosts Juneteenth events at Cultural Arts Center

The City of Roswell is hosting a nearly two-month-long series of events to commemorate the occasion.

On June 19, the City of Roswell is hosting Exploring Black Experiences in Roswell at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. at the Smith Plantation, where an educational program will share the history of those who worked at the plantation as slaves and highlighting how their labor built and maintained much of the early town, contributing to its growth and the thriving local economy.

The exhibit itself will remain open until July 31.

Sandy Springs holds Freedom Day Juneteenth Celebration

The City of Sandy Springs is hosting a free family-friendly Juneteenth Celebration in three locations.

The festivities include a performing arts showcase, a STEAM digital art gallery, education activities, multiple food vendors and more.

At the first location, the Byers Theatre, performers will put on a From Africa to America show, celebrating Juneteenth. The show is choreographed and produced by local businessmen Antwant Sessions and Shervoski Moreland of Namari Dance Center and Namari Productions.

In the Byers Theatre Lobby, there will also be a LIQUID Arts and Productions immersive art exhibit and experience, which is centered on Sandy Springs and Dunwoody high school students creativity, according to the city.

The production in the lobby will show digital, interactive artwork and youth-produced canvas pieces that incorporate augmented reality, while students work together to finish a mural-sized artwork for display as the exhibitions centerpiece

Outside on the City Green, there will be a full outdoor celebration, featuring food, music, games and educational exhibits.

Stockbridge to Celebrate Juneteenth with Major Concert

The City of Stockbridge plans to celebrate Juneteenth Wednesday with a concert at 5 p.m. in the Stockbridge Amphitheater.

The event will be held at the venue on North Henry Boulevard Road and will feature music, food, food trucks and regional vendors. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis until the maximum capacity is reached.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
Rep. Dora Drake speaking after the Juneteenth flag was raised over the Wisconsin Capitol. (Baylor Spears | Wisconsin Examiner)

Democratic Gov. Tony Evers raised the Juneteenth flag over the Wisconsin State Capitol for the fifth year on Tuesday during a celebration that honored the end of slavery in the U.S. and called for action to defend democracy and peoples freedoms.

The governor joined members of the Wisconsin Legislative Black Caucus and local leaders for the celebration of the federal holiday that recognizes the end of slavery in the United States on June 19, 1865  the day about two-and-half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 when Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, to announce to more than 250,000 enslaved Black people that they were free.

Raising the flag is not an end all, be all solution for the challenges facing Black Wisconsinites in our state, but it does send a clear and decisive message that, here in Wisconsin, we celebrate Black history and culture and we celebrate the progress and resilience of our Black communities, Evers said.

The red and blue flag will fly over the Capitol through sunset on June 19. The colors of the flag are meant to represent that enslaved people and their descendants are Americans, while the bursting star in the center is meant to represent the end of slavery in the United States and a new beginning for African Americans.

Evers said at the celebration that the flag would continue to go up over the Capitol every Juneteenth for as long as he is in office. The flag is temporarily replacing the Progress Pride Flag, which was raised on May 31 to fly over the Capitol for the duration of Pride month, because the flag pole on the East corner of the Capitol can only accommodate three flags (the other two being the American and Wisconsin flags). The Progress Pride flag will be restored for the rest of the month after Juneteenth.

State Rep. Dora Drake, who chairs the Legislative Black Caucus, said its important to recognize the history that has brought us to this moment. There were people in Texas that didnt even know they were free.

While the celebration served as a moment to recognize the history, speakers also used it as an opportunity to recognize the ongoing challenges that Black Americans and others face and to call for action.

It is not just acknowledging the freedom that we have but the things we have to fight for  whether it is protecting our voting rights, our democracy and freedoms that people have yet to see, Drake continued.

Evers said he is grateful to the members of the Legislative Black Caucus and others for their work towards a state that is more just, equitable and free. He said in his speech that disparities based on race persist in Wisconsin at alarming rates, and Black Wisconsinites continue to fight for many of the fundamental rights and freedoms others take for granted. These disparities are unacceptable.

Ruben Anthony, the Urban League of Greater Madison president and CEO, said people must understand that freedom aint freeOur predecessors paid a tremendous price so that we could be free.

Anthony called for people to pay attention to recent threats to freedom and stand up for democracy, especially in this presidential election year. He said recent threats to progress in Wisconsin include the states fake electors in 2020, Republican state legislators decision to withhold money for UW System employees until there were some concessions on diversity, equity and inclusion, attempts to ban books in schools and past opposition to implementing fair maps.

On the federal level, he noted the U.S. Supreme Courts decisions eliminating federally protected abortion rights and affirmative action in college admissions.

The biggest mistake we can make is to go to sleep at the switch and not pay attention to what is going on in states like Wisconsin and the rest of the nation, Anthony said. These are times when we must lead and we must vote.

We are in the fight of our lives, and dont think we cant be stripped of our freedoms, Anthony said.

The post Juneteenth flag raised over Wisconsin Capitol for fifth year appeared first on Wisconsin Examiner.
MANILA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A private van collided with a truck in Quezon province, southeast of Manila on Wednesday afternoon, killing at least one and injuring eight others, police said.

The collision occurred on the highway in Atimonan town around 2:30 p.m. local time. The van was traveling south to the Bicol region, and the truck was headed to Manila from the Bicol region.

An initial report said the private van veered to the opposite lane and collided head-on with the truck, killing the driver at the scene.

Rescuers rushed the van's injured passengers to a local hospital. 
This story was originally published in 2022 and has been updated.

Juneteenth has been celebrated for more than two decades in the small town of Fayette, Missouri. Started by a historic Black church, the annual festivities have grown into a four-day event that includes a fashion show, a feast of pork steak and ribs, and other cultural displays.

But while the holiday celebrates the triumph of Black Americans over slavery, event coordinator Timothy Jackman approaches it with an inclusive mindset. In addition to youth ball games and Juneteenth Jeopardy, organizers try to fold in ethnic foods from other cultures, Jackman said. In this predominantly white town, he wants to attract neighbors of all races to the celebration.

Oddly enough, I heard from a non person of color this year that they didnt know Juneteenth was for white people and that it was just for the Black community, he recalled. It just goes to show you that we still have some work to do.

The decades-long effort to make Juneteenth a national holiday reached its goal in 2021, more than 150 years after freed Black Texans began the tradition. Before President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act in June of that year, only six states had made it an official paid state holiday  Texas, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Now, all 50 states and the District of Columbia recognize Juneteenth as a holiday or observance, and at least 28 states and the District of Columbia have designated Juneteenth as a permanent paid and/or legal holiday through legislation or executive action. But it hasnt come without some backlash. In the years since, the political climate has changed in some parts of the country, and the assault on Black history and inclusion has had ripple effects.

Yet, still the holiday carries deep meaning and a sense of tradition. Long before big brand sponsorships and the recent White House celebration, Black people such as Texas native Opal Lee, known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth, fought to make June 19 a national holiday. Shes been finally getting her flowers, and getting the keys to her new Texas home 85 years after a racist mob drove her family from a lot is another long overdue win.

Historically, Black churches and segregated parks served as meeting places for Juneteenth festivities, which included soul food, dances, clothing, and praise and worship. While it was not universally recognized by Black Americans, Juneteenth events were largely held in Black spaces and reflective of Black cultures.

But with the adoption of the federal holiday, interest in celebrating Juneteenth has expanded and diversified. Many longtime observers of the holiday have encouraged that development. For them Juneteenth is a recognition of American history that should be open to all people.

Weve always tried to make it an inclusive event and try to bring awareness to those people who are not people of color, Jackman said. Weve said it wasnt just all Black people, but there were white folks that were an important part of our history.

Others fear that the new popularity of the holiday has led to commercialization and will undermine the cultural significance of June 19. In recent years, many have called out white-led businesses and groups for profiting off of Black culture and history with Juneteenth-themed products and events. They argue that the federal holiday has overshadowed calls for more substantial policies to address systemic racism.

I hate to sound like this person, but I feel in many ways that the celebration of Juneteenth has become a way [for white people] to silence [Black] critics, said Dwonna Goldstone, associate professor and the director of African American Studies at Texas State University. It seems like its a way to placate black people into accepting  See, were celebrating Juneteenth and were acknowledging what happened  but without any real changes.

Cookouts and hair shows

More than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which freed enslaved people in the Confederate states, Union soldiers told Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, that slavery ended. The delayed announcement sparked Juneteenth, celebrations of freedom that spread through Southern Black communities in the years that followed, defined by the sounds, flavors and aesthetics of Black cultures.

Those early influences are still seen in Juneteenth events across the country, particularly in rural communities where the holiday has been recognized for years, if not decades.

In Hugo, Oklahoma  a predominately white town of about 5,000 people  Clinton Crawley helped start the first Juneteenth event nearly 15 years ago. Organizers raised about $2,000 to host a barbecue in the park, he recalled, with a spread of brisket, cole slaw, baked beans, red hot links, and juice for about 200 people.

Similar to the early traditions, Hugos celebration included oral history lessons from elders in the community and a parade, which now offers cash prizes for the best ATVs, motorcycles, animals, automobiles, and floats. Its an intergenerational festival, where residents of all ages compete in a dance contest and play games such as musical chairs and tug of war. At the opening ceremony, a local pastor explains the purpose of Juneteenth and the community joins in to sing Lift Every Voice and Sing, the Black National Anthem.

Crawley, a retired army veteran and mechanic, has handed the reins for this years event to his daughter Katrina Bills, who has served on the towns Juneteenth planning committee.

What pushes me to really be on this committee for so long is my love for the community. I have a love for the betterment of our community and of our Black people, Bills said. They dont realize what our ancestors went through for us to even be able to celebrate this day.  We want them to understand what it took.

In some communities, the federal holiday has reignited interest in observing Juneteenth. In Eatonton, Georgia, Monique Hines decided to revive the celebration in her hometown this year. The event will include singing of spirituals and honoring of local World World II veterans and a Tuskegee Airman.

The most exciting activity, she added, is the African print-themed fashion and hair show. They will crown a Little Miss and Little Mister Juneteenth and allow school-age children to model in the fashion show.

Were gonna try to take it back to the old school Bronner [Bros.] hair shows where you saw the hairstyles that youre not gonna see on the street like the avant garde style, said Hines, a loctician in nearby Macon. One of the styles that Im going to do with the locs is actually turn his locs into a crown. Its going to be really fun.

But even in this central Georgia town of fewer than 7,000 people, there are questions about how to recognize the holiday  and whether to celebrate at all.

Fashion designer Shayna McLaren said she didnt know Juneteenth existed until a few years ago. This year will be her first time attending an event, and only because she was invited to Eatontons fashion show. Owner of Kraev Fashions in rural Loganville, Georgia, she is tasked with creating original tribal-inspired fashion pieces such as kente cloths for the event.

Otherwise, she is unsure if she would be celebrating at all.

This is going to sound shallow, but I just dont know about it. It just became the trending thing, McLaren said. Our culture hops on everything thats trending and its really annoying.

Celebration or commercialization?

Some are still skeptical about what Juneteenths rise in popularity means for the authenticity of the holiday. In the run-up to the holiday, there has been backlash to Walmart selling Juneteenth Ice Cream and the Indianapolis Childrens Museum offering Juneteenth Watermelon Salad. Both organizations have since issued apologies and removed the items from their shelves.

In Arkansas, a leaked Juneteenth soul food and market festival flyer featured an all-white panel of judges and sparked outrage on social media in 2022. That event was canceled.

Goldstone said that such incidents have distracted from the need for more discussions on policy changes and for white people to engage in anti-racism work related to economic inequality and housing security during Juneteenth.

Malcolm X said in his autobiography that white people need to form their own organizations and do anti- racism work with other white people, Goldstone said. Until they are willing to put their lives on the line, as they did during the Freedom Rides when white people were getting beaten up like Black people were, I just dont see much changing.

For some Black groups, the holiday provides an opportunity to join with white neighbors and educate the masses about Juneteenth and the nations history.

Lue Lockridge-Lane, an organizer for the event in Fayette, said it was important to grow the ministry beyond the pulpit in honor of Juneteenth. Their celebration has expanded because people want to be more involved in political and social justice issues affecting Black people, she said. The event has served as the catalyst for those conversations.

Its not just the African American community, but the community as a whole having the dialogue and checking and seeing what are the types of things that we need to do, Lockridge-Lane said. Asking questions like If you could make a difference or change in this community, what would that change look like? That part of it to me is whats been stimulating the added interest in Juneteenth and excitement about it.

Although theres disagreement on how Juneteenth should be celebrated, the focus should be on the celebration, said Linda Reed, associate professor and interim chair of the Department of African American Studies at the University of Houston. There are so few opportunities that Black people have to really celebrate their culture and history, she noted.

The more you talk about it, the more it becomes a part of you, Reed said of the holiday. And everybody should know the history of it.

The post Juneteenth Has Gone Mainstream. Should Everyone Be Celebrating? appeared first on Capital B News.
Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, D-Anchorage, speaks in support of her bill that would add mental health instruction to public school curriculum on the Senate Floor on March 6, 2024. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, D-Anchorage, speaks on the Senate floor on March 6, 2024. Gray-Jackson was the sponsor of a bill to make Juneteenth a state holiday. (Photo by James Brooks/Alaska Beacon)

As Alaska celebrates Juneteenth this Wednesday, Gov. Mike Dunleavy is weighing whether to sign a bill to make it a legal holiday in Alaska.

Dunleavy has until early July to make a decision on Senate Bill 22. If he approves the measure, it will automatically go into effect for 2025.

Juneteenth, a portmanteau of June and nineteenth, celebrates the freedom of enslaved people in the United States. For Sen. Elvi Gray-Jackson, the sponsor of the bill, it is important that Juneteenth is recognized in the same way as other holidays.

Just like we celebrate the Fourth of July, Juneteenth is celebrating the freedom  the true freedom  of slaves, said Gray-Jackson, a Black state senator and Democrat representing Anchorages Midtown.

The holiday commemorates when the last enslaved people in the Confederacy learned they were free. While the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, didnt learn about their freedom until nearly two years later, on June 19, 1865. The holiday is also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day.

President Joe Biden signed a law making Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021. Gray-Jackson has always been interested in making Juneteenth a state holiday, she said, but Bidens decision sparked her into action. She initially introduced a Juneteenth bill in 2021, which failed to gain traction. Gray-Jackson reintroduced the bill in 2023, when the Senate passed it, 16-4. In May, the House passed the bill, 37-3.

Supporters say the bill is intended to make the day a paid holiday for state workers; state administration officials have said that whether workers are paid ultimately would depend on union contracts.

More than half of states recognize Juneteenth as an official holiday. June 19 was also established as a paid municipal holiday in Anchorage last year. The Anchorage Assemblys vote was unanimous, and granted Indigenous Peoples Day the same status. The state recognizes Indigenous Peoples Day, though it is not paid; Alaska currently celebrates 11 paid holidays, including Alaska Day and Sewards Day.

Since 2001, Alaska state law has recognized Juneteenth on the third Saturday of June each year, and mandates a proclamation from the governor. Dunleavy made no mention of Senate Bill 22 in his Juneteenth proclamation on Saturday. For Celeste Hodge Growden, the president and CEO of the Alaska Black Caucus, celebrating Juneteenth as a state holiday means a time to reflect, a time to educate, and a time to celebrate. And its not just Black people celebrating, its all of us celebrating freedom and seeing where weve come from, and where were headed. Its a beautiful thing.

Some people opposed to the bill cited the economic strain of a paid holiday, including Sen. David Wilson, R-Wasilla, a Black member of the Senate who was one of four no votes last year. Before the Senate vote last year, he argued that state resources would be better spent on policies that address health care, economic, education and criminal justice disparities impacting African-American people.

For Hodge Growden, economic arguments against Juneteenth are an insult, especially when for so long, all of the work was done for free. Instead, she believes that Juneteenth gets us closer to that Beloved Community that Dr. Martin Luther King talked about often. Were still striving to get there, and this would be another step for us. The Beloved Community was Kings term for a peaceful, achievable society of reconciliation.

Gray-Jackson has invited Dunleavy to sign the bill at the Martin Luther King Jr. Living Memorial, where he signed the Black History Month bill in 2019. Dunleavy has three options with the bill: signing it, vetoing it or allowing it to become law without his signature.

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Happy Juneteenth!

The holiday, which was designated a federal holiday in 2021 and has been recognized within Black and African-American communities for far longer than that, has gained broader recognition in recent years.

Still, for many Americans there is much to learn about the new holiday. Many people of all races remain unsure of what Juneteenth is, mostly because not much is taught about the holiday in public schools.

Juneteenth, also referred to as Freedom Day or Jubilee Day, commemorates the total abolition of slavery in the U.S. that took place on June 19, 1865. Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation three years earlier  making slavery illegal by Jan. 1, 1863  many enslaved people were still not free because slave owners in the south, and particularly Texas, neglected to tell the people they enslaved for months. In fact, many slave owners relocated the enslaved and plantations to Texas because it was viewed as a safe haven for their operations.

It took federal troops two and a half years to arrive in Galveston, Texas and take control of the state to ensure all the enslaved people were actually freed.

Slavery was officially outlawed in the U.S. with the ratification of the 13th Amendment in December 1865.

On that fateful June 19, Union General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas, and announced that the enslaved people were no longer legally allowed to be kept as property of their owners. See his speech below.

The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.

Back then, Juneteenth became a cause for celebration for Black Americans but was often met with opposition. Public property was often barred from being used for celebratory activities, but as blacks became landowners, property was donated in honor of the landmark date.

Freedom Day celebrations declined in the 1900s because of the Great Depression and textbooks that attributed the end of slavery to the Emancipation Proclamation rather than Juneteenth. However, the ongoing civil rights movement, coupled with recent events like the police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, ignited a greater interest in the holiday.

In 2021, the day was commemorated officially, with President Joe Biden signing a bill that recognizes the day as a federal holiday. Previously, some states and employers recognized the day but it was on a case-by-case basis. In 1979, Texas became the first state to establish Juneteenth as a state holiday.

While the Senate unanimously passed the bill, the effort to designate Juneteenth as a national holiday was met with criticism from both sides of the political spectrum and lawmakers on either side of the aisle.

14 House Republicans voted against the bill.

Other critics of the holiday pointed out that while it is well-meaning, the gesture of granting Juneteenth federal recognition is just that  a gesture. Some people of color including Rep. Cori Bush pointed to reparations as a more meaningful way of paying back the descendants of enslaved people as restitution for the trauma their ancestors endured at the hands of white slavers.

Even Bernie Sanders weighed in and said, Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday is an important moment in understanding our countrys history, and the horrors and lasting legacy of slavery. But real justice is when all Black Americans live free of oppression. That is not the work of a single day, but of every day.

The holiday has gained more popularity in recent years. Lately, media companies have endeavored to produce more content about Juneteenth, and increased the amount of programming that both educates about the day and uplifts Black creators.

The post Juneteenth: What to Know About the Freedom Holiday appeared first on TheWrap.
Juneteenth commemorates the day on June 19, 1865 when a Union general read orders in Galveston, Texas stating all enslaved people in the state were free according to federal law. Juneteenth was designated a federal holiday in 2021. (Photo by Nathan Howard / Getty Images)

When asked what Juneteenth means to me  I found myself a bit surprised that I did not have a clear-cut, concise answer readily available.

It required focused reflection on the journeys of many, from my ancestors, to my loved ones and even myself. It also pushed me to think deeply about the true meaning of freedom. Additionally, it forced me to contemplate the fight for freedom that many groups continue to face right this very moment.

On June 19, 1865, Army troops went to Galveston, Texas to free the last enslaved Black people in the United States. It was a group of about 250,000 slaves who did not reap the immediate benefits of the Emancipation Proclamation a couple years prior simply because they did not know.

On the surface, it sounds completely celebratory, like good news, especially to someone like myself living 158 years later.

While Juneteenth is closely associated with freedom, I believe it is our responsibility to remember the lack thereof. It is a chance to acknowledge the atrocities of our nations past and to honor the lives of those enslaved people who may not have lived long enough to taste or see freedom but only dreamt of it. It is also an opportunity to remember the tortuous reality enslaved African Americans endured.

After pausing for a brief but brutally honest look back at history, I think that is where the celebratory aspects of Juneteenth come in, at least for me. The resilience of these enslaved persons is to be admired. In many ways, it is simply astonishing. It is often said, it is important to know where you come from, but in this case, the focus shifts to who you come from.

Knowing that my ancestral lineage includes slaves is a sad fact, but it is also a source of empowerment. In those moments when I am feeling less than, it is almost like a whisper coming directly from their lips, reminding me: Keep going.

It is not like being set free was an instant fix. Sure, the specific institution of slavery was no more, but hardships and obstacles did not magically vanish. My great-grandfather on my mothers side was a sharecropper in Tennessee. This was one of the few ways he could access land in the south and provide a place for his family to live, as many laws were in place barring Blacks from owning land in that part of the country. The other truth is many simply did not have the resources to own land or property.

Moving ahead a generation, my grandmother and her siblings must have heard the same whisper I mentioned earlier because they kept going. Seeking new opportunities, she moved from Tennessee to my hometown in Ohio. This period, known as the Great Migration, occurred between 1910 and 1970. During this time, many African Americans relocated from the South to other states to escape the shackles of racial violence, while seeking freedom from the Jim Crow laws, which legalized segregation.

Again, returning to the true meaning of freedom. What does freedom mean to you?

To me, its the ability to live freely, think freely, speak freely, and move freely. The bravery of those before me is more than enough reason to keep going. Their resilience, drive, and spirit are certainly the reasons for the Juneteenth season.

Racial injustice and inequality have not disappeared. There will likely always be room for improvement. We are the change agents. We cannot become complacent. We cannot give up. We must always remember and most importantly  we must keep going because one day we will be able to look back and see how far we have come.

The post What Juneteenth means to me appeared first on Source New Mexico.
On Juneteenth, monument dedicated in Alabama to those who endured slavery

Visitors arrive at the National Monument to Freedom on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 in Montgomery, Ala. The monument is inscribed with 122,000 surnames that formerly enslaved people chose for themselves, as documented in the 1870 Census, after being emancipated at the Civil War's end. (AP Photo/Kim Chandler)

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Thousands of surnames grace the towering monument, representing the more than 4 million enslaved people who were freed after the Civil War.

The Equal Justice Initiative, a criminal justice reform nonprofit, invoked the Juneteenth holiday  the day that commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S.  on Wednesday as it dedicated its National Monument to Freedom.

The monument, which honors the people who endured and survived slavery, is the centerpiece of the new Freedom Monument Sculpture Park in Montgomery, Alabama, where art and historical artifacts tell the story of enslaved people in the United States.

During the dedication ceremony, Equal Justice Initiative founder Bryan Stevenson recounted how enslaved people endured unspeakable horrors, but also left a legacy of perseverance and strength.

Enslaved people in this country did something remarkable that we need to acknowledge, that we need to recognize and that we need to celebrate. Enslaved people resisted. Enslaved people were resilient. Enslaved people found ways to make a way, Stevenson said.

Juneteenth is a day to confront the brutality of slavery and its impact, but he said it is also a day to celebrate the dignity and strength of people who managed to love and survive despite what they faced.

They never stopped believing. The never stopped yearning for freedom. This morning, as we leave here this Juneteenth morning, I hope we will be hopeful, Stevenson said.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, found out they were free after the Civil War. The news came two months after the end of the Civil War and about 2 1/2 years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

Stretching four stories into the sky, the National Monument to Freedom is inscribed with 122,000 surnames that formerly enslaved people chose for themselves, as documented in the 1870 Census, after being emancipated at the Civil Wars end. Those last names represent the more than 4 million enslaved people who were set free after emancipation.

The Equal Justice Initiative created the park to tell the story of enslaved people with honesty. The sculpture park is the third site created by the organization. The first two sites  the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, a memorial to people slain in racial terror killings; and The Legacy Museum: From Enslavement to Mass Incarceration  opened in 2018.

Dr. Michele R. Williams and her mother, Barbara Y. Williams, scanned the rows of names on Wednesday morning, looking for their family surname, Murdough.

Theres a story connected to every single name and the families that they represent, Michele Williams said. Their ancestor, a man named Moses, is believed to have lived in one of the two slave cabins that were taken from an Alabama plantation to become an exhibit at the sculpture park.

It was just heart-wrenching, but also super-moving, Michele Williams said of seeing the cabin.
Editor's Note: This opinion was first published on June 19, 2021. It has been updated and is being republished today as the nation celebrates the Juneteenth federal holiday.

Opinion. President Joe Biden signed the legislation into law three years ago making Juneteenth a national holiday. Juneteenth, also called Freedom Day, celebrates June 19, 1865, the date the people of Texas were informed slavery was over.

On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger delivered the message in General Orders, Number 3:

The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.

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The Order arrived two and half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, and two months after Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered and ended the Civil War at Appomattox two months earlier.

Even without the modern technology of the Internet, social media, and 24-hour cable news, the lag in time is almost laughable today. The Texas leaders back then really didnt want the Civil War to be over and certainly did not want slavery to end. Someone could have sent a telegram earlier or played an 1860s version of Paul Revere on horse to tell Texans the news earlier.

Perhaps there is something in Texas that has lingered through decades that makes Texas leaders resistant to good race relations. Two days before President Biden signed the Juneteenth legislation, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a controversial bill into state law banning Texas educators from teaching about racism in classrooms.

While the bill does not specifically mention critical race theory, it has been labeled an anti-critical race piece of legislation.

Critical race theory is an academic concept that claims racism is a social construct that did not originate through an individual bias or prejudice.

There are some who dont want teachers to discuss racism in public classrooms.

The Texas bill had compromises inserted by Democratic lawmakers into the law, such as being able to teach about White supremacy. This irritated Abbott, who vowed to have the legislature send him a stronger version for his signature, spelling out that race relations cannot be taught in public schools.

Abbott is among several Republican governors who want to forbid critical race theory taught to students. These Republicans act as if racism did not exist in the United States. This erasure of reality is called whitewashing history.

Because of this big pushback by Republican-controlled legislatures and governors, I was happy that Juneteenth became a federal holiday. It should be noted that Bidens signature will not solve race relations in the United States.

In recognition of Juneteenth, the National Congress of American Indians issued a statement:

Today we honor and celebrate Juneteenth as a national holiday. On June 19th, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas with the news the Civil War ended and slaves were now free.

A Civil War continues to this day. It never really ended. Truth be told, we remain sharply divided as a country and, along with our Black brothers and sisters, we have yet to break free from the shackles of centuries of systemic and institutional racism, oppression, and marginalization.

Our day of freedom and emancipation will no doubt come. Until then, we will continue to speak our painful truths, demand justice and equality for all, and rise toward Gods perfect glory for each of us, individually and in this great nation, collectively.

The Juneteenth national holiday is not an end of a long history of poor race relations in the United States, but certainly provides a time of remembrance and should shed a light on how much progress is still needed.

Thayek gde nwendemen - We are all related.

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
PORTSMOUTH  Every inch of shade was valuable real estate during the annual Juneteenth ceremony Wednesday.

The ceremony was held in 90-plus-degree weather at the African Burying Ground, where theres little shade so the large crowd of attendees resorted to umbrellas, tents and standing far away in the shadows of buildings for relief from the beating sun. Still, once the African drumming of the Akwaaba Ensemble began, the audience danced despite the scorching heat.

Members of the Akwaaba Ensemble perform during Portsmouth's Juneteenth celebration at the African Burying Ground Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

How the African Burying Ground memorial park was created in Portsmouth

The Juneteenth ceremony is presented by the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire. Executive Director JerriAnne Boggis began the ceremony giving some of the history of the African Burying Ground.

Where you are seated and standing was in the 1600s a burying ground for our ancestors, who were African American and enslaved. It was built over, covered up, erased as the town grew and developed, Boggis said.

Boggis recognized the work of Valerie Cunningham, who wanted to find herself in her hometown, Boggis said. Cunninghams research led her to a map from the 1600s that designated this spot as the Negro Burying Ground where 200 people were buried. During road repairs in 2003, Boggis said, a backhoe hit a coffin .. It wasnt the first time the ancestors were disturbed. Thered been other times they were removed, discarded, not treated with respect.

JerriAnne Boggis, executive director of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, speaks during the Juneteenth ceremony at the African Burying Ground in Portsmouth Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

But this time, the city and the community turned it back into a sacred space, she said, creating the African Burying Ground memorial park.

Today we celebrate the African-American day of freedom, celebrating our enslaved ancestors not just for what happened in the past, but for where we are today, Boggis said. For me, this African drumming celebration is one of the most spiritual things we do, honoring the 200 buried here, but also today our connection to our humanness. Its that heartbeat.

Children participate in an African drumming workshop before the Akwaaba Ensemble performance during Portsmouth's Juneteenth celebration at the African Burying Ground Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

The Rev. Robert Thompson spoke next, offering a prayer and pouring libations for the ancestors, which offers them sustenance symbolically by pouring water from a glass onto the burial grounds memorial circle.

Portsmouth should be extremely proud to have this, he said. There are not many places in our nation where former slaves are honored in this way.

More: Juneteenth is a federal holiday but still isn't a New Hampshire state holiday

He also honored Valerie Cunningham and the power of what one individual can do.

And just look at us, look at our complexions, he said surveying the crowd. Were a myriad of colors, thats a result of enslavement and love. We celebrate love and affirm our common dream of equality and justice. Thats what makes us come together on a punishingly hot day in June in Portsmouth.

African drumming performance entertains crowd

Members of the Akwaaba Ensemble perform during Portsmouth's Juneteenth celebration at the African Burying Ground Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

The Akwaaba Ensemble then performed for the crowd of hundreds who tapped toes, clapped hands and danced to its energetic rhythms.

Despite the heat, all ages were in attendance, with parents fanning young children, and grown children fanning elderly parents.

Its important to understand the importance of Juneteenth, to understand the story behind it, said Amaya Conte, 15, of South Berwick, Maine, explaining why she attended the ceremony. Her friend Clovy Robinson of Eliot, Maine, also 15 and a student at Marshwood High School, said, Its important to come together as a community since weve been divided for so long.

More: When Portsmouth had an African School for Black students

Lydia Scott of Epsom said she came with her family because its important to learn about African American culture. She participated in the African drumming workshop taught by Theo Marty held before the ceremony with her friend Ida Turmelle of Pembroke to learn some traditional songs.

Its important to celebrate freedom, Turmelle said.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Juneteenth in Portsmouth NH: African American day of freedom
On Jan. 1, 1863, the Emancipation Proclamation, which was signed by President Abraham Lincoln, became effective. The purpose of the Emancipation Proclamation was to free enslaved people of African descent.

While many enslaved Africans in the Confederate states were declared freed, some were not  especially in Galveston, Texas. They would not learn of their freedom until June 19, 1865, when approximately 2,000 Union soldiers were deployed to deliver the message of freedom. Through the orders of General Gordon Granger, federal soldiers announced to approximately 250,000 enslaved Africans that they were now free. This was the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation and the legal end to slavery. This day is known as Juneteenth and recognized by many as Americas second Independence Day.

The fact that so many Africans were not told of their freedom until two and a half years after others were freed indicated the defiant control of some Confederate states. It also highlighted how slave owners put profit before people.

Hundreds of thousands of people were not told about their freedom, not because of a single point of failure or one selfish person. This situation occurred because of co-conspirators who turned a blind eye and a deaf ear to what was happening around them. Their enslavement continued for more than two years because of coordinated efforts of silence and accomplices in complicity. This colossal humanitarian failure happened because of a collapse in judgment, values, ethics and morals. This happened because there was a breakdown in systems that at their very core were already corrupt or compromised.

There have been other experiences in the United States when African Americans were not informed of life-changing events. While the communication mishaps and weak infrastructure that led to these events were not of malicious intent, many experienced the loss of lives, homes and livelihoods.

In 2005, during Hurricane Katrina, a devastating Category 5 hurricane, there were many forms of communication used to warn residents of the threat, and many of the warnings were shared on cable television and the internet. In communicating a critical message of this magnitude, decision-makers assumed residents had cable or internet access. Yet, the most vulnerable population, primarily African Americans in low-lying areas, did not get the message of Hurricane Katrinas arrival because they did not have access to cable or could not afford cable or internet access. In some parts of the South, nearly 4 in 10 Black households dont have internet, part of whats been called a racial digital divide.

And even when people did know that the storm was bearing down, many could not afford to evacuate. All this contributed to the fact that, as one study found, 62% of the dead and 80% of those stranded on rooftops after the storm were Black.

We are reminded of those in Galveston by those left behind in New Orleans.

More recently, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, while Americans sheltered in place, we witnessed another communication blind spot. Some people in urban and rural African American communities were not aware that there was a pandemic spreading across the world  the digital divide at work again. Many African Americans were not aware of the steady stream of alarms and alerts, the precautions and prevention measures to take. They were less likely to know when, where and how to access masks and hand sanitizer.

Again, while there was not intentional exclusion, as in Galveston, the lack of communication resulted in health care disparities and the disproportionate burdens and barriers to which the African American community was subjected.

Today, some African American communities are still overlooked, forgotten, not counted and ignored, like the enslaved people of Galveston who were denied knowledge of their freedom for so long.

The Juneteenth experience was more than a historical tragedy. It was  and is still  an opportunity for us to assess our intentions, our blind spots and our capacity to remember others. In times of foreboding trouble, tumult and turmoil, what will we do to help those who are vulnerable, left out, neglected and unsafe?

Today, Juneteenth is a time for celebration, but it is also a time of reflection and assessment. It is a time to inventory our resources, survey for blind spots and get to know our neighbors. We only need to send a text or add a comment to a social media group to alert others of potential harm. But before sending a text or adding a comment, we must care enough to know our neighbors. They might not need to call on us, but one day we might need to call on them. As we commemorate what happened on June 19 in 1865, let Juneteenth remind us of our obligations to each other.

The Rev. Theresa A. Dear is a national board member of the NAACP and a Deseret News contributor.
For months, Scott Abbey reported to work on the sandwich line of an industrial kitchen. He and his coworkers prepared 20,000 meals each day, which were then sold by a $16.2 billion multinational food and facility services conglomerate. In order to use the restroom at work, Mr. Abbey and his coworkers were forced to wade through urine and feces that overflowed from toilets that were never cleaned. The fecal matter on their shoes traveled with them back into the kitchen, where Mr. Abbey and his coworkers often found rodents around the food they prepared. Mr. Abbey was given a single meal per day and provided no means to challenge either the conditions he suffered or the fact he earned $0 for his work.

Scott Abbeys story may seem ripped from the pages of history, a relic of the unregulated workplaces in Americas early-industrial past. But Mr. Abbey is an American worker in the 21st century. Why wasnt he protected by the laws that protect the rights of modern workers? The answer is simple: Mr. Abbey was incarcerated, working behind bars at the Santa Rita Jail in Alameda County, California.

Mr. Abbeys story is not unique. Thousands of incarcerated people nationwide are forced to work as an implied condition of their sentence. They staff morgues, produce military electronic technology, build office furniture, fight wildfires, and labor in deadly temperatures on former plantations. Carceral labor's products are ubiquitous yet often overlooked. Even the food we eat  from widely known brands like McDonalds, Costco, or Walmart  arrives at our tables thanks in part to carceral labor. Private businesses, recognizing that they can pay an individual behind bars far less than a worker on the outside, exploit incarcerated labor to boost their profits.

The Thirteenth Amendment's Troubling Exception

As many Americans commemorate Juneteenth this week  a day marking when the promises of the Emancipation Proclamation were finally delivered and the last enslaved people were freed, a day that Black Americans have celebrated for years that Biden recently made a federal holiday  we must shine a light on the shameful exception that allows forced labor to continue in new forms.

Although the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution formally abolished U.S. slavery, it includes a terrible exception: permitting slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for crime, allowing governments, prisons, and the companies contracting with them to hire and exploit incarcerated workers as they see fit.

The Thirteenth Amendment's loophole was first exploited during the wake of the Civil War with Black Codes laws enabling the arrest of Black Americans for vague offenses like vagrancy and forcing them into involuntary servitude. Through a practice known as convict leasing, many imprisoned Black Americans were leased to private companies including railways, mines, and yes, even plantations, where they endured harsh and hazardous conditions.

Despite the abolishment of convict leasing in 1941, states soon found other insidious tools to exploit Black Americans for free labor in discriminatory policing and mass incarceration. This resulted in Black communities, who make up 13 percent of the United States total population but 35 percent of the prison population, seeing a disturbingly familiar picture: hundreds of thousands of Black Americans forced to labor against their will  just as they were before the Civil War.

President Biden Must Act

The United States has made momentous strides toward improving protections and conditions for workers since the Thirteenth Amendment was ratified in 1865. Yet, with each step forward, policymakers have forgotten about the workers who unjustly labor behind bars. This is evident in the lack of express protections for incarcerated workers in laws like the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The best way to finally end slavery in America is to remove the slavery exception from the Thirteenth Amendment. However, since amending the Constitution is a long-term project, we must pursue short-term solutions as well.

President Biden, who has called himself the most pro-worker president in U.S. history and committed his administration to racial justice, should enforce those laws already on the books inside prison workplaces.

While Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., has proposed legislation to extend critical protections to incarcerated workers, the president need not  and should not  wait for Congress to act. By re-interpreting these statutes to cover incarcerated workers, President Biden can truly stand up for all workers by ensuring that those who work behind bars receive fair pay, labor in safe workplaces, and have a legal remedy when racial or gender discrimination disproportionately siphons the best-paying prison jobs to incarcerated white males.

It is easy to ignore those behind bars. But all of us  including the incarcerated  have the right to basic human dignity. And we are all diminished when the incarcerated are denied those rights. This Juneteenth, its time to fully end forced labor in all forms. We must deliver overdue justice to those forced to work behind bars and eliminate one of the remaining vestiges of slavery in this country.
Juneteenth in Virginia: Local expert discusses the holiday and its meaning

Juneteenth in Virginia: Local expert discusses the holiday and its meaning

Watch the Digital Desk segment with Old Dominion University Assistant Professor of African American History, Marvin Chiles, Ph.D. in the video player on this page.

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  June 19 is Juneteenth. The date commemorates when the last enslaved people in the United States learned of their freedom on June 19, 1865 in Galveston Bay, Texas.

The beginners guide to celebrating Juneteenth

The holiday is also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, and more.

While 2024 marks the fourth year of Juneteenth as a federal holiday, its been celebrated by states, communities and individuals for decades.

Texas declared June 19 a state holiday starting in 1980, calling it Emancipation Day in Texas. Other southern states followed suit including Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and more.

Juneteenth was originally one of the many celebratory holidays that black Americans, they created and engaged in after the civil war to one, celebrate the end of the war, two, to celebrate the ending of slavery, and three, to express to the rest of the country they desire to be American citizens, full-fledged American citizens with equal rights, said Marvin Chiles, Ph.D., an assistant professor of African American history at Old Dominion University.

Chiles says that is where the foundation of Juneteenth began. Originally, there were many different holidays celebrated for freedom. Juneteenth was more of a Deep South tradition. In Virginia, Chiles says the day was called Emancipation Day.

It wasnt really until the 1960s, 1970s that the Juneteenth one spread, Chiles said.

During that time is when the holiday began to grow into the rest of the country. That growth was brought about by black historical organizations, black Greek life organizations and historically black colleges.

Then eventually, white-run organizations and interracial organizations joined in, like historical organizations and racial reconciliation groups.

[They] began to really push for Juneteenth to be recognized and celebrated as an American holiday, Chiles said.

When Chiles speaks to people about Juneteenth, he shares the message that it is a day for all Americans to come together.

He says people should realize and acknowledge that July 4th is an important date as the birth of the country, and Juneteenth is the date when all peoples freedoms, spoken about in the Declaration of Independence, could start to come to fruition.

If you love to celebrate July 4th, youve got to celebrate Juneteenth, Chiles said.

Chiles spoke more about the holiday, the meaning here in Hampton Roads and more in the conversation. Watch the rest of the conversation in the video player to learn about the holiday.

Trying to find ways to celebrate Juneteenth?

Take a look at the Juneteenth guide to find events happening locally, below.

Juneteenth events and closings guide | 2024

Watch the full Digital Desk conversation to hear more about Juneteenth.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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This photo shows smoke caused by an Israeli strike in Yaroun village in southern Lebanon on June 19, 2024. Three Hezbollah members, including a local official, were killed and four civilians wounded on Wednesday in Israeli air strikes on Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli warplane fired four air-to-surface missiles at a house in the center of Yaroun village in southern Lebanon, killing the three Hezbollah members.

Among the killed is a local party official named Hassan Mohammad Saab, said the sources, adding that four civilians were injured due to two airstrikes on the southeastern village of Khiam and have been transported to the hospital. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua)

BEIRUT, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Three Hezbollah members, including a local official, were killed and four civilians wounded on Wednesday in Israeli air strikes on Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli warplane fired four air-to-surface missiles at a house in the center of Yaroun village in southern Lebanon, killing the three Hezbollah members.

Among the killed is a local party official named Hassan Mohammad Saab, said the sources, adding that four civilians were injured due to two airstrikes on the southeastern village of Khiam and have been transported to the hospital.

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' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon.

Since the start of the confrontations, 540 people have been killed, including 346 Hezbollah members and 100 civilians, according to figures released by Lebanese security and medical authorities. 

This photo shows smoke caused by an Israeli strike in the southeastern village of Khiam, Lebanon, on June 19, 2024. Three Hezbollah members, including a local official, were killed and four civilians wounded on Wednesday in Israeli air strikes on Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli warplane fired four air-to-surface missiles at a house in the center of Yaroun village in southern Lebanon, killing the three Hezbollah members.

Among the killed is a local party official named Hassan Mohammad Saab, said the sources, adding that four civilians were injured due to two airstrikes on the southeastern village of Khiam and have been transported to the hospital. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

This photo taken on June 21, 2024 shows a building destroyed by Israeli airstrikes in Yaroun, Lebanon. Three Hezbollah members, including a local official, were killed and four civilians wounded on Wednesday in Israeli airstrikes on Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli warplane fired four air-to-surface missiles at a house in the center of Yaroun village in southern Lebanon, killing the three Hezbollah members. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

This photo taken on June 21, 2024 shows buildings destroyed by Israeli airstrikes in Yaroun, Lebanon. Three Hezbollah members, including a local official, were killed and four civilians wounded on Wednesday in Israeli airstrikes on Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli warplane fired four air-to-surface missiles at a house in the center of Yaroun village in southern Lebanon, killing the three Hezbollah members. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

This photo taken on June 21, 2024 shows buildings destroyed by Israeli airstrikes in Yaroun, Lebanon. Three Hezbollah members, including a local official, were killed and four civilians wounded on Wednesday in Israeli airstrikes on Lebanese villages, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that an Israeli warplane fired four air-to-surface missiles at a house in the center of Yaroun village in southern Lebanon, killing the three Hezbollah members. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)
The orange powder paint sprayed onto Britains most famous prehistoric structure, Stonehenge, by environmental protesters on Wednesday has been removed, leaving no visible damage, according to the organization that manages the site.

Thankfully, there appears to be no visible damage but thats in no way saying there hasnt been harm, from the very act of having to clean the stones to the distress caused to those for whom Stonehenge holds a spiritual significance, said English Heritage chief executive Nick Merriman in a statement to CNN Thursday.

He confirmed that the site is open to the public and that summer solstice celebrations, which are expected to attract huge crowds, will go ahead as normal.

A video posted on X by Just Stop Oil on Wednesday showed two of the groups activists spraying the landmark using fire extinguishers.

The Just Stop Oil protestors demanded the incoming government sign up to a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030, the group posted on X.

The protesters were a 21-year-old student from Oxford and a 73-year-old man from Birmingham, Just Stop Oil said in a press release. - Just Stop Oil/PA

The action took place around 12 p.m. local time (7 a.m. ET) at the ancient site near Salisbury in the southwest of England, Wiltshire Police said in a statement.

The two activists were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, damaging an ancient monument and deterring a person from engaging in a lawful activity, police said in a statement Thursday.

The pair have been released on bail pending further enquiries, police said.

The official Stonehenge X account described the incident as extremely upsetting.

Orange powdered paint has been thrown at a number of the stones at Stonehenge. Obviously, this is extremely upsetting and our curators are investigating the extent of the damage, the post said.

The protesters were a 21-year-old student from Oxford and a 73-year-old man from Birmingham, Just Stop Oil said in a press release.

In anticipation of people meeting at Stonehenge on Thursday to mark the Northern Hemispheres longest day of sunlight, English Heritage published conditions of entry.

Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site, a Scheduled Ancient Monument and is seen by many as a sacred place. We ask that all those attending respect it and those celebrating around it, the website said.

The attack took place a day before huge crowds are expected to descend on Stonehenge for the summer solstice. - Just Stop Oil/PA

Responding to the incident on X, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wrote: Just Stop Oil are a disgrace.

On Thursday, two more activists from the group caused a scene at Londons Stansted Airport after they sprayed orange paint on two private jets on the runway where Taylor Swifts private jet is suspected to have landed.

The pop star is in London on her Eras world tour and is set to play three shows in London this weekend.

Just Stop Oil posted videos on their social media channels showing two activists breaking into the airfield, cutting into the fence and spraying orange paint on the aircraft.

The same group made headlines last month when two protesters smashed the glass protecting the Magna Carta, a famous British manuscript from the 13th century, at the British Museum in London.

Climate activists have been staging increasingly high-profile protests, many of which have involved attacking high-value artworks including the Mona Lisa and Van Goghs Sunflowers.

CNNs Niamh Kennedy contributed reporting.

This story has been updated with the latest developments.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
'I Was Just Waiting To Die': Survivors Correct The Record On Jonestown Massacre

On a remote airstrip in the South American country of Guyana, Jackie Speier lay gravely wounded behind the wheel of a small plane. The 28-year-old legal adviser to a California congressman had been shot five times. Near her lay the bullet-riddled bodies of her boss, Rep. Leo Ryan, three journalists and a woman fleeing a cult commune known as Jonestown.

When help finally came, Speier and other survivors learned the almost incomprehensible truth about what they had left behind. Six miles away, more than 900 bodies lay decomposing in the heat. One third of them were children. They were surrounded by syringes and toppled paper cups containing poison-laced punch.

According to a massive research project sponsored by San Diego State University, 918 people died on Nov. 18, 1978, in what came to be known as the Jonestown Massacre, the subject of the riveting new docuseries, Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown.

Jackie Speier, legal aide to Rep. Leo Ryan, was shot five times when members of the People's Temple ambushed a fact-finding delegation in an airstrip in Guyana. Bettmann via Getty Images

The three-part series, which premiered Monday on Hulu (and will air on National Geographic on Aug. 14), is deeply unsettling. It stands out from other documentaries about Peoples Temple cult leader Jim Jones by disputing the all-too-pervasive narrative that the victims were complicit in their deaths and by providing important context for the massacre. Modern-day interviews  including survivors like Speier, members of the Peoples Temple who escaped, U.S. military personnel tasked with counting and removing the bodies, and Jim Jones son himself  contextualize the harrowing video, photos and audio, much of it previously unaired.

Even Speier, who years later was elected to Ryans former seat in Congress, had not seen some of the footage before she watched the docuseries.

It was almost like an out-of-body experience  like it happened to someone else, and I was just watching this horrific saga, she told HuffPost. And I sit back and [think], God, did this really happen to me?

Unfortunately, it really did.

Jim Jones addresses his congregation from the pulpit in California. California Historical Society

The Peoples Temple

Rev. Jim Jones founded the Peoples Temple in Indianapolis in the 1950s, preaching the concept of what he called apostolic socialism.

Jones and his followers advocated for the redistribution of wealth, free social services and racial harmony. Although Jones was white, the majority of the members of the Peoples Temple, which relocated to San Francisco in the 1970s, were Black.

Despite the churchs outward appearance of racial unity and equality  in one shot in Cult Massacre, a Black Is Beautiful sign is seen in Jonestown posted above cheerful drawings from children  it was clear to observers that Black members lacked agency in the group.

Most of those in power were white, and most of the African American population were not, Speier said about the structure of the Peoples Temple.

Under Jones direction, church members toiled to build Jonestown  officially called the Peoples Temple Agricultural Project  from the ground up on 3,800 acres of land Jones leased in the isolated jungle. People who were lured to Guyana with the promise of being happy and untethered from the U.S. government instead found themselves in what survivors described as a prison camp.

Whether church members were happy to be in Jonestown or not, they were unquestionably prisoners of Jones. The self-proclaimed messiah was a cruel tyrant who confiscated his followers passports and money in Guyana, prevented them from communicating with their loved ones back home and punished those who questioned his authority. People were prevented from leaving by armed guards and the treacherous jungle terrain surrounding their commune.

Jones even deprived them of food, which Speier realized when the delegation was having breakfast in the commune the morning of the massacre.

She said she is still haunted by the face of a Black woman in her late 80s who Speier saw stuffing bacon into her dress pocket.

And it made me realize that it was all for show  that the food they were normally providing them was much less than what they were receiving that day. Her face still pops into my head from time to time, Speier said.

This photo of children in Jonestown was included in a 1978 promotional booklet. AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine

Concerned Relatives

Congressman Ryans fact-finding delegation was a response to allegations of abuse at Jonestown by a group called Concerned Relatives, who said they were bewildered and frightened about what Jones was doing to their families.

Their human rights are being violated and the fabric of our family life is being torn apart, they wrote in a 1970s flyer that they hoped would attract the attention of politicians and the public. The group warned that Jones was conducting mass suicide drills  he called them Operation White Knight  to condition his members to die for the cause at the moment he gives the order.

Their pleas spurred Ryan, who counted the relatives and members of the cult at Jonestown among his constituents, to investigate their concerns firsthand. He flew to Guyana with Speier as well as some People Temple defectors, family members and a team of journalists.

Much of the footage of their visit was captured by NBC cameraman Bob Brown and San Francisco Examiner photographer Greg Robinson. Both of them were fatally shot in the ambush on the Port Kaituma airstrip, as was NBC correspondent Don Harris.

I was expecting to die, Speier said. I was just waiting to die.

The fifth person killed at Port Kaituma was Patricia Parks, a member of the Peoples Temple who was trying to escape that day. She was shot in the head while sitting inside the plane she hoped would carry her to safety.

Rep. Leo J. Ryan (right) sits with consultant James Schollart and aide Jackie Speier in a plane headed to Jonestown, Guyana, on a fact-finding mission to investigate alleged human rights by Jim Jones. AP Photo/San Francisco Examiner/Greg Robinson)

The delegation

When the fact-finders were allowed to visit Jonestown, the followers smiles, enthusiasm and praise of their leader at first seemed to persuade Ryan that all was well.

Whatever the comments are, there are some people here who believe this is the best thing that ever happened in their whole life, he said onstage in a pavilion to rousing cheers and applause from Jones followers.

But then people started slipping secret notes to members of the delegation, saying they wanted to leave  confirmation, Speier said, that people were being held there without their will.

Speier did meet individually with church members who insisted they wanted to stay in Jonestown, but she had trouble believing them.

It seemed like they had memorized a script, she said. They basically all said the same thing: I love it here. I have no interest in reconnecting with my family.

The tension in the air as word spread about the defectors was palpable.

In film footage shown in Cult Massacre, Jones increasing agitation is evident. His jaw is clenched while beads of sweat form on his reddening face. He repeatedly licks his lips and whispers urgently to his guards.

Then someone in the pavilion tried to stab Ryan. Others intervened and he wasnt injured, but the delegation knew they were in peril. Jones said any followers who wanted to join them were free to leave  but then sent his armed guards to ambush them on the runway.

A table piled with cups of fruit punch and hypodermic syringes containing cyanide that were used to kill members of the Peoples Temple at Jonestown. Bettmann via Getty Images

The massacre

Meanwhile, Jones was ordering his followers to poison themselves and their children.

Fail to follow my advice, youll be sorry. Youll be sorry, he tells his congregation in audio that was recorded on the scene.

Die with a degree of dignity, lay down your life with dignity, Jones said. Dont lay down with tears and agony.

But Jones followers deaths were agonizing. Meanwhile, he died from a gunshot wound. Whether it was self-inflicted or not is still debated, but it wasnt painful.

Speier struggled to describe the sounds in the audio clip as Jones followers responded to his instructions, some of them asking why the children had to die too.

It was just this hopeless  I dont know what the word is. Cry, I guess. A hopeless cry, but they just became resolved  theres a herd instinct going on.

That, and the threat of guards standing around with guns if they didnt do what they were told.

So they drank. It was a mixture of cyanide and grape Flavor-Aid, which was reported at the time as Kool-Aid. Drink the Kool-Aid became a catchphrase for blindly following authority.

The phrase still infuriates Jones son Stephen, who opens up about his conflicted relationship with his father in Cult Massacre.

It so dehumanizes the people who died there, and its so off the mark, Jones says in the series.

That night was murder.

For decades, what happened at Jonestown was described as mass suicide, a notion that Cult Massacre convincingly discredits.

From very early on, I would bristle when people said mass suicide, Speier said, pointing out that people were injecting cyanide into infants and children.

They had gunmen standing at all of the edges of the pavilion. And they had lost control over their own minds, she said.

A member of the U.S. Special Forces who was sent to Jonestown after the massacre said he found people with syringes stuck in the back of their necks, and evidence that others had been held down and forced to drink the poison.

The dead were vastly undercounted at first  initial reports had the death toll at 300  and officials later found children tucked underneath the adults, the Special Forces member said on Cult Massacre.

Jones preyed on vulnerable people, a man who left Peoples Temple says on Cult Massacre.

They have been victims of racism, victims of poverty. Then Jones came along and offered them something. They trusted him and they believed him. They thought they were changing the world or at least they thought they were changing their lives. But he was a crazy son of a bitch. And he was willing to see them all die. I dont know why he needed to destroy these people.

The people who died at Jonestown were the subject of ridicule and contempt for decades. Outsiders simply didnt understand the torment Jones followers endured, Speier said.

Those who werent caught up in Jim Joness lies and the emotional stranglehold he had on people have no way of being able to appreciate how difficult it was for them, Speier said.

The "throne" used by Jim Jones was surrounded by bodies after the massacre at his commune in Guyana. Bettmann via Getty Images

Related...
Kansas State University Salina Aerospace and Technology Campus is offering STEM educational opportunities for K-12 teachers throughout the state.

K-State Salina said there have been a couple of projects already in STEM  or science, technology, engineering and math fields  including in the areas of robotics, aviation, uncrewed aircraft systems and computer science.

Drone racing competition for students part of K-State program

K-State Salina has provided numerous STEM training opportunities through its expertise in technology and engineering to Kansas K-12 students and educators.

One such outreach project was used to help middle school students compete in a drone racing competition through the campus's Applied Aviation Research Center (AARC), which provided training to school instructors to help students compete in drone design, engineering, overall speed and the skills of flying the drone.

According to K-State, students from around the state competed in the competition.

"STEM education is an important emphasis in many assets in life and helps build a promising future for any student," Kurt Carraway, K-State Salina uncrewed aircraft systems department head and AARC executive director said. "As a leader in drone education, safety and research, we take great pride in sharing our expertise with our fellow educators from around Kansas. Our industry is one that is constantly evolving as technology progresses. It is important to be able to prepare the next generation to have a base knowledge of uncrewed aircraft operations and regulations."

K-State's Project LEAPES offers direct impact to Salina children

Another opportunity at K-State Salina has been with a partnership with the K-State College of Education called Project LEAPES, which stands for Learning, Exploration and Application for Prospective Engineering Students.

This project, which received a grant from the U.S. Department of Defense, seeks to improve rural education in the state by offering free training and thousands of dollars in resources for teachers.

Through this project, K-State Salina hosted on-campus learning in STEM-related courses, including training in areas of expertise that include robotics, aviation, uncrewed aircraft systems and computer science. Faculty experts from the campus provided collegiate-level training and knowledge to instructors.

"We are excited to collaborate with the College of Education on the Project LEAPES Virtual Camp. Our campus is committed to supporting education outreach for all Kansans," said Troy Harding, department head of K-State Salina integrated studies. "These trainings and camps get technology into the hands of K-12 educators and their students. We hope this will ignite a passion in students leading to science and engineering careers."

Some of that technology stayed in Salina and got into the hands of USD 305 middle school students, including robot kits and drones.

"It's really great, especially since they have a focus on rural communities," said Renee Toms, a science teacher at Lakewood Middle School.

Toms said that while Salina is more of an urban-rural mix, the program has also provided other, smaller, schools with this technology such as robots, drones and tablets.

As a current doctoral student at K-State who also received her undergraduate degree there, Toms said it is nice to be able, as a teacher and for her students, to learn from professionals at the university.

"Getting to work with K-State professors and experts in the field, and having the students work with them as well, gives them that look into the kind of careers they might have been exposed to," Toms said.

This article originally appeared on Salina Journal: K-State Salina offering teachers STEM education, student drone racing
Kansas celebrates Juneteenth, and ongoing fight for equality, for first time as state holiday

Anthony Lewis talks about the significance of Juneteenth during a June 17, 2024, celebration at the Statehouse in Topeka.

Anthony Lewis talks about the significance of Juneteenth during a June 17, 2024, celebration at the Statehouse in Topeka. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  Anthony Lewis says Juneteenth is a time to reflect on progress made in the fight for civil rights and social justice while acknowledging work that remains to achieve equality for all.

Lewis, the superintendent of Lawrence Public Schools who serves on the Kansas African American Affairs Commission, spoke Monday at the Statehouse as the state prepared to celebrate Juneteenth for the first time as an official state holiday.

He asked the crowd who filled the rotunda: Are we free today?

There are policies and legislation in place, he said, for the purposes of ensuring we remain oppressed. He encouraged the crowd to think of Juneteenth as more than a celebration or just a day to have off.

Its a call to action, Lewis said. It urges us to continue to work toward a society where freedom and justice are realities for all. It is a day to encourage a meaningful conversation about race, equity and the work that still needs to be done to create a truly inclusive society.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved people would be freed. President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, but the news took years to reach Texas and many other places. The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery, was ratified in December 1865.

President Joe Biden in 2021 signed a law making Juneteenth an annual national holiday. Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly in October 2023 designated Juneteenth as a state holiday for executive branch employees.

Gov. Laura Kelly speaks during a June 17, 2024, celebration of Juneteenth at the Statehouse in Topeka

Juneteenth is a time to celebrate the progress we have made and acknowledge the ongoing struggles for racial equality, Kelly said in a statement Monday. Kansans have long observed this significant turning point in our nations history, and celebrating Juneteenth as a state holiday provides time for reflection.

Lewis said the holiday symbolizes the resilience, strength and determination of the African American community in the face of adversity and oppression. The historical legacy, he said, is about never giving up hope in uncertain times.

Juneteenth also recognizes the perseverance of African Americans who fought for their freedom and continue to strive for equality long after the shackles of slavery were removed, Lewis said.

Its not just Black history. Its our American history, Lewis said. The memories are painful  oh, yes, theyre painful  but the struggle for freedom? These are our stories, and these stories must be told. That is how we heal. That is how we move forward. We must teach our children what their ancestors had to endure  not to shame or embarrass anyone, but this is our history.

The post Kansas celebrates Juneteenth, and ongoing fight for equality, for first time as state holiday appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
Kansas City man pleads guilty to murder charge in 2022 fatal stabbing in Merriam

A Kansas City man pleaded guilty to murder Tuesday in the fatal stabbing of a man in Johnson County in 2022.

John Daniel Crawford Murry, 27, was arrested on Nov. 9, 2022 in the killing of Charles Dillon, who was stabbed to death on Oct. 21, 2022.

Police found Dillon, who had been stabbed, when responding to a home in the 7300 block of Royalty Way around 11 p.m., the Star previously reported. Dillon was pronounced dead at the scene.

Murry was initially charged with first-degree murder, The Star reported in 2022. He pleaded guilty Tuesday to second-degree intentional murder, along with aggravated robbery and aggravated burglary.

Attorneys for both sides entered a plea agreement in Johnson County court Tuesday that would see Murry sentenced to 30 years in prison, according to court documents.

Devin Darnell Braswell, 22, was also charged with murder in the stabbing. Braswell was arrested Nov. 10, 2022 and sentenced to 21.5 years in prison in June 2023.

Braswell also was initially charged with first-degree murder but pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, as well as conspiracy to commit felony murder, according to court records.

Murry will appear in court for sentencing at 10 a.m. Aug. 9.
Kansas will see major tax cuts but the relief for home owners isnt seen as enough

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  Kansas legislators have approved major tax cuts and ended a political stalemate with Gov. Laura Kelly. Yet some of them sounded frustrated as they were doing it.

The Republican-controlled Legislature approved a bill Tuesday to cut income and property taxes by a total of $1.23 billion over the next three years. The measure contains the exact terms of a compromise reached by the Democratic governor and the GOP leaders of the House and Senate, and Kelly promised to sign it.

But many lawmakers, particularly Republicans, said theyd wanted more for taxpayers, and legislators in both parties view its property tax relief as meager. The bill decreases what homeowners will pay to the state to help finance public schools, but the 15.6% cut in that tax for the owner of a $250,000 amounts to $76 a year and is lower than previous plans lawmakers considered this year.

The bill cleared the Legislature with huge bipartisan majorities during a one-day special session called by Kelly after she vetoed three previous tax-cutting plans and lawmakers ended their regular annual session May 1. The GOP leaders who negotiated with her office warned colleagues that they risked another veto if they made any changes  and they didnt. Theyve worried that failing to cut taxes will anger voters in this years elections.

We can absolutely afford more tax cuts, said Senate tax committee Chair Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican. I do support this legislation, but it is not the best we can get.

The states coffers have bulged with surplus revenue, but disagreements between Kelly and Republican leaders prevented Kansas from enacting major reductions.

Republican leaders wanted tax cuts worth at least $230 million more over three years, but Kelly argued that those larger cuts would lead to budget shortfalls in five years.

Although this package is not perfect and emphasizes income tax reductions instead of property tax relief, it does provide significant relief, she said in a statement.

Personal income tax cuts account for nearly 87% of the bills relief, even though legislators repeatedly said their constituents biggest concern is rising property taxes fueled in part by rising home values. But most property taxes are levied by local officials, and the states school tax is a small portion of what people pay.

The bill moves Kansas from three personal income tax rates to two and cuts the highest rate from 5.7% to 5.58%. Other changes will increase the amount of income automatically exempted from taxes so that a married couple filing jointly will not pay any tax until they earn more than $25,000, whether they have children or not.

Kansas also will stop taxing retirees Social Security benefits instead of taxing the entire amount once someone earns more than $75,000. The state also will double an income tax credit for child care expenses.

The measure also provides a 14% cut in the tax paid by banks, savings and loans and other financial institutions instead of the corporate income tax. That mirrors past cuts for other businesses.

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.
Katy Perry worked with Dr. Luke on her new album, despite Kesha's allegations of sexual abuse

Katy Perry worked with Dr. Luke to create her new album, a label source confirmed to Rolling Stone.

Dr. Luke coproduced many of Perry's early hits, but they haven't collaborated since 2013.

In 2014, Kesha sued Dr. Luke for sexual abuse. They reached a settlement last year.

Katy Perry has teamed up with Dr. Luke to create her forthcoming album, reconnecting with the embattled pop producer for the first time in a decade.

Perry launched her new era on Monday by announcing the album's lead single, "Woman's World." After sharing a snippet on TikTok, rumored song credits began circulating on social media, which listed Dr. Luke as a producer.

Rolling Stone confirmed his reunion with Perry on Wednesday, citing a source from Perry's label, Capitol Records.

WOMANS WORLD

SONG JULY 11

VIDEO JULY 12

PRE-SAVE + PRE-ORDER

GET READY TO POP OFF https://t.co/ecwNHEaVqu pic.twitter.com/WGbJSTjfxl  KATY PERRY (@katyperry) June 17, 2024

"Katy knew exactly the album she wanted to make and put together the team to make it happen," the source said. "And that includes previous collaborators including Luke, Stargate, Max Martin, and Sarah Hudson."

Dr. Luke, born Lukasz Gottwald, coproduced many of Perry's early hits, including diamond-certified tracks like "California Gurls," "Roar," and "Dark Horse."

However, Perry seemed to sever ties with Gottwald after she released "Prism," her third album with Capitol, in 2013.

The following year, Perry's former friend and fellow pop star Kesha filed a lawsuit against Gottwald, her former mentor, alleging a decadelong period of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. Kesha said Gottwald had drugged her, raped her, and subjected her to psychological torment while she was signed to his label, Kemosabe Records, causing her to starve herself. "I tried to and almost killed myself in the process," she told The New York Times.

Gottwald denied all of Kesha's claims and countersued for defamation.

Over the course of their lengthy court battle, Perry's name was dragged into the mix. Texts between Kesha and Lady Gaga revealed that Kesha had called Perry "mean" and believed that she, too, had been "raped by the same man," meaning Gottwald. Perry testified that this wasn't true. She also said she felt "pressured" to support Kesha amid the legal battle, but preferred to stay out of it.

Meanwhile, Perry released her fourth album with Capitol, "Witness," in 2017 and her fifth, "Smile," in 2020. Neither included production credits from Gottwald.

In 2021, unsealed court records showed that Gottwald asked to testify about losing business opportunities as a result of Kesha's accusations  namely, high-profile pop collaborations worth about $46 million in lost income. He estimated that $11.65 million of that sum would've come from working with Perry specifically.

Kesha and Gottwald reached an undisclosed settlement last year, though Kesha has never walked back her allegations.

In fact, Kesha seemed to react to Perry's announcement on Monday, posting a message on X that simply reads, "lol."

But Perry's rollout of "Woman's World" has been met with far more explicit backlash from fans.

Despite Gottwald's lost revenue estimates, he has found steady work with pop stars since Kesha's allegations went public, producing multiple top-10 hits like Doja Cat's "Say So," Latto's "Big Energy," and Nicki Minaj's "Super Freaky Girl." Still, many of Perry's followers were shocked to learn of their collaboration, flooding social media with disappointed and angry messages.

Sorry, but I completely sympathise with Keshas grievances. I love KP, but it is crazy to write a song about it being a womans world with the same producer who destroyed her life  https://t.co/NcKH6MVV5i  left boob  (@karysjones) June 18, 2024

A representative for Perry did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Kazakh government critic in hospital after being shot in Kyiv

A Kazakh government critic with a following of more than 1 million subscribers on YouTube survived an assassination attempt in central Kyiv, his wife and Ukrainian authorities said Wednesday.

Journalist Aydos Sadykov, head of the opposition online media BCE and strong critic of the government of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, is in hospital after a gunman ran to his car on Tuesday, shot him and fled, according to the Office of Ukraines Prosecutor General.

Today in Kyiv, near his own house, an attempt was made on Aydos Sadykovs life, Sadykovs wife, Natalya Sadykova, who was also in the car, said in a Facebook post after the assault.

Kazakhstan is ruled by autocrat Tokayev, who has previously adopted violent methods to maintain order. In 2022, he faced the biggest challenge to his leadership when public anger over a spike in fuel prices erupted into wider protests over corruption, unemployment and poverty in the oil-rich former Soviet nation. To squash the unrest, Tokayev ordered security forces to kill without warning.

Law enforcement officers are working to identify Sadykovs attacker, the Ukrainian Prosecutor Generals Office said Wednesday.

The attempted murder took place in the Shevchenkivskyi district of the capital near the house where the couple live, it said. The man is currently in hospital in serious condition.

Sadykov and his wife, also a journalist, have been living in Ukraine since 2014 and have refugee status, the Prosecutor Generals Office said.

In another Facebook post on Wednesday, Sadykova said the shooting was brutal and cynical, and happened in broad daylight in front of witnesses.

This happened when Aydos drove into the yard of our house. I was sitting next to him in the passenger seat, she said. Now Aydos has been operated on, he is in intensive care in serious condition. Please pray that he survives.

Sadykova accused President Tokayev of being behind the assassination attempt and said her husband has always defended the interests of the Kazakhs.

CNN has reached out to Natalya Sadykova for further comment.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
I keep the Affordable Care Act working. Why cant I afford to see my own doctor?

Montana Democrats hold a press conference with Career Futures to discuss the state health department awarding an employment training program contract to out-of-state provider Maximus. (Photo by Nicole Girten | Daily Montanan)

I love my job.

Every day I get to answer phone calls from some of the tens of millions of Americans who rely on the Affordable Care Act and help them get the health care benefits they need.

Even though I do an essential job, my employer  the federal call center run by Maximus in Tampa, Florida  doesnt pay me enough or provide me with the health care benefits I need to treat my own health condition.

Maximus signed a 10-year deal worth $6.6 billion in 2022 to field calls about the federal health care marketplace and Medicare. The company has 10,000 employees across 12 call centers, mostly in the South and Southwest.

Companies like Maximus that get taxpayer money should have to create good jobs with livable wages, decent benefits, and the right to unionize  the same conditions that federal workers enjoy.

President Joe Biden has taken some important steps, especially to set high standards for construction workers on new big infrastructure and clean energy projects. But more needs to be done to make sure service contract workers like me get a fair reward for our labor  instead of letting so much of public money go to rich executives and shareholders.

While many of us at Maximus who field calls all day make around $17 an hour, CEO Bruce Caswell got a 17 percent raise last year to $7.3 million. During the past four years, Maximus has awarded Caswell more than $27 million and spent over half a billion dollars on stock buybacks and dividends to enrich shareholders.

My only major raise in the 10 years Ive been at Maximus came in 2022, when Biden set the minimum wage for all federal contract workers at $15. While we appreciate the pay hike, Im a single mother of two and I need a real living wage. My only raise in the last two years was 22 cents.

Our health benefits arent much better. Im supposed to visit the doctor every three months to treat a chronic health condition, but because our deductibles are so high, I havent been in two years.

Because of these issues, last year I joined the campaign to unionize Maximus workers with the Communication Workers of America. The process is long and different locations are moving at different speeds, but weve already had some victories.

After we protested our high health costs, Maximus dropped our health insurance deductibles significantly. We need more help, though. Ive participated in several protests at my call center demanding $25 an hour and increased benefits from Maximus.

Ive also gone to Washington, D.C., to call on the Biden administration to follow through on its promise to create good jobs with federal money. Last fall I even got to take my daughter with me to speak with lawmakers in Congress.

Im not going to quit my job. Im going to stay and fight within the company to make it better, because the ACA is a great program that is helping millions of Americans.

And even though I know that I can be fired at any time  Maximus laid off more than 700 employees in one month last year  Im standing up for my rights. Im standing up for a better company and for a better future for my children.

The post I keep the Affordable Care Act working. Why cant I afford to see my own doctor? appeared first on Daily Montanan.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Little Rock city officials said they are working to keep youth away from violence through summer programs while also providing future opportunities.

This week, the citys Summer Youth Employment program is in full swing, and it seems to be working, as one of the young workers said the program is a lifesaver for him.

Little Rock officials highlight summer programs aiming to help youth stay away from violence

Jordan Jackson said he found hope during the summer at the Billy Mitchell Boys and Girls Club.

It gives us something to do, it keeps us occupied, it keeps us from being outside all the time and being in the streets, the 18-year-old Jackson said. From personal experience and experience of my friends and close family members, I have seen they were able to stay out of trouble a lot more.

Officials with the city said part of the program is aimed at helping youth stay away from violence during the summer, but the other goal is to give them opportunities to help them in the future.

Pine Bluffs Gloves Not Guns aims to help youth stay off the streets as summer approaches

The Summer Youth Employment program places students in various jobs. Caleb Flores, who was placed at the Little Rock Zoo, said its helping him.

I feel like this zoo was the best option because I kind of like animals, Flores said. It keeps me out of the streets, it keeps me occupied, keeps my head clean and I want to stay out of trouble.

Kaitlyn Mosby, who was also placed at the Zoo, said it helps her towards her future goals.

I chose to do it because I want more of a bigger experience dealing with children because I am going into early childhood education, Mosby said.

Pastors on Patrol program works to stop youth violence in Pine Bluff

Chandler Carter was placed at The Arkansas Repertory Theater he says for him its a dream that assists him in his future dreams.

I have been doing theater basically my whole life. It gives children like me a lot of opportunities to explore the world of the work sites to build on your resume, Carter explained.

The chances and opportunities like these are that Jackson said help his livelihood and his college plans for next year.

Its a good way to be productive, meet new people and keep us from going out there and losing our lives over stupid things, he said.

Little Rock man aims to teach that violence is not the answer after being shot in the head 30 years ago

City officials said the program is only possible because of the support of the businesses that are opening their doors to students. Their goal is to have more involvement to further help young people.

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Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar at the national palace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, June 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Wednesday that China and Malaysia should strengthen the docking of development strategies, better leverage complementary advantages, expand two-way trade and investment, and vigorously promote cooperation in emerging areas.

Li made the remarks when meeting with Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar.

Li first conveyed cordial greetings from President Xi Jinping to King Sultan Ibrahim, saying his ongoing visit to Malaysia aims to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries and to promote the further development of China-Malaysia relations and cooperation.

China, Li said, is ready to work with Malaysia to deepen mutual political trust, maintain close high-level exchanges, and take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity and the building of a China-Malaysia community with a shared future as a guide to continuously upgrade bilateral cooperation and better benefit the two peoples.

China and Malaysia firmly support each other in safeguarding interests concerning sovereignty, security and development, and in sticking to the path suited to each other's national conditions, he noted.

The Chinese side encourages more competitive Chinese enterprises to invest in Malaysia, he said.

He also urged the two sides to further strengthen exchanges and mutual learning in education, youth and other fields, encourage the two peoples to exchange more visits, and consolidate public support for the China-Malaysia friendship.

King Sultan Ibrahim asked the Chinese premier to convey sincere greetings to President Xi.

He said Malaysia attaches great importance to relations with China, and is ready to take the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation in the fields of economy and trade, science and technology, education and tourism, and lift bilateral ties to a new level.

Chinese companies are welcome to invest and do business in Malaysia, he added. 

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar at the national palace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, June 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)
Kentucky nurse took money for prescriptions without seeing patients

A Kentucky nurse has admitted taking cash to write prescriptions for people without examining them or even seeing them.

Sara B. Parman, 47, pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court in London to a charge of conspiracy to distribute pills outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.

Parman, 47, is an advance practice registered nurse who owned Parachute Recovery Centers LLC in London, according to her plea agreement.

Parman hired another woman, identified in the plea agreement as K.M., to run the center. K.M. was addicted to methamphetamine and a state court judge had ordered her into treatment with Parman, according to the court record.

At some point, Parmans practice devolved so that customers/patients could meet with her or K.M., pay $300 cash and get a prescription without being seen or treated by a health care provider, according to the plea agreement.

Those prescriptions were mainly for alprazolam. Xanax is one common brand of the anti-anxiety drug.

Many clients at the center also began getting prescriptions in the names of other people. Customers could give Parman or K.M. a list of people and a cash payment for each, and Parman would write alprazolam prescriptions in their names, according to her plea agreement.

Parman also authorized prescriptions for amphetamine/dextroamphetamine, a drug to treat attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, for K.M., thereby perpetuating her addiction, Parmans plea agreement says.

In May 2021, Kentucky State Police use a witness to buy three prescriptions from Parman.

The witness met Parman at the home of Parmans boyfriend in Clay County and gave her three names and $900, and the nurse called in prescriptions to pharmacies for them.

One pharmacy wouldnt fill a prescription for one person, so Parman called the witness and asked for another name to use, according to the plea agreement.

The conspiracy charge against Parman is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. She is to be sentenced in October.
Army veteran Eugene Vindman, who was a key player in the first impeachment of former President Trump, has won the Democratic nomination for the House seat representing Virginias 7th Congressional District, according to Decision Desk HQ.

Vindman came out on top of a crowded Democratic field to try to succeed retiring Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-Va.), who chose not to seek reelection to instead run for governor of Virginia next year. He had the support of a handful of House Democrats in the primary and had well outraised the rest of the field, taking in about $5 million.

Vindman was serving as an ethics lawyer to the National Security Council in 2019 when his identical twin brother, veteran Alexander Vindman, alerted him of a phone call he heard between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in which Trump pressured Zelensky to investigate then-candidate Joe Biden and his son, Hunter.

The Trump administration delayed hundreds of millions of dollars of aid to Ukraine at the same time.

Both Vindmans passed along what they heard to their superiors, resulting in the eventual first impeachment of Trump, who was acquitted on the counts of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress that he faced.

After the impeachment trial, Eugene Vindman was later given a poor review by a superior, which the Defense Departments inspector general determined was likely a response to his involvement in reporting Trumps phone call.

Vindman will be a slight favorite to win the seat in the November election. The district is a battleground but leans somewhat in Democrats favor.

The nonpartisan election handicapper Cook Political Report rates the seat as lean Democrat.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Commenting on a statement by the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade that the Russians are trying to capture the village of Borova, Izium district (Kharkiv Oblast), the spokesperson for the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group of Forces, Lieutenant Colonel Nazar Voloshyn, said that the defence forces of Ukraine are ready for any development of events.

Source: Voloshyn, on air of national joint 24/7 newscast

Quote: "There is no need to panic and spread the information that 'the enemy is coming' in the society. The leadership of the Armed Forces and the top political leadership are aware of this information, appropriate measures are being taken, everything is known about the enemy... [...] the defence forces are ready for any development of events, our defenders will give an adequate response in that direction as well."

Details: Voloshyn stressed that "we know everything about the enemy", and probably the information will also be announced by Defence Intelligence of Ukraine whose units are deployed in this area.

Background:

Ukraines 3rd Separate Assault Brigade's defenders stated that the Russians had increased their presence in Luhansk Oblast and were attempting to conquer settlements on the axis of Cherneshchyna to Pershotravneve, with the village of Borova located next to it.

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"As long as their memory is alive with us, were not done

Anjelica Jardiel From left: 2012 Sandy Hook survivors and 2024 Newtown High graduates Ella Seaver, Matt Holden, Grace Fischer, Lilly Wasilnak, Henry Terifay and Emma Ehrens

They still remember the sweet anticipation of that winter day  before the gunshots started.

I was super excited to go to school. We were going to make gingerbread houses, says Lilly Wasilnak, 18, who was a first grader at Sandy Hook Elementary. Then I remember banging that we thought was from roof work they had been doing.

As the noises continued, a warning from Principal Dawn Hochsprung came crackling over the intercom: Get to your safe spots.

We hid in our cubbies. I think all of us knew we were in danger, recalls Grace Fischer, Lillys classmate.

By the time they left the building, through halls lined with police officers, it seemed like half our grade was missing, Grace, now 18, says.

Nearly 12 years after 20 first graders and six educators were murdered in Newtown, Connecticut, on Dec. 14, 2012  marking another tragic milestone in Americas ever-growing history of mass shootings  the surviving students are entering young adulthood.

Five dozen of them graduated from Newtown High School on June 12 in a celebratory ceremony threaded with loss. Each victims name was read from the stage, and grads wore small green ribbons on their gowns reading Forever in Our Hearts. Says Ella Seaver, 18: You are looking for the people who arent there.

Here, 10 Sandy Hook survivors and recent graduates  several of whom have joined the Jr. Newtown Action Alliance to make schools safer  and five parents whose children were killed reflect on their unimaginable loss and whats ahead.

The aftershocks from the massacre, like the debate over solutions to gun violence, have not ended.



For a long time, I was thinking, Why did they die and I didnt? " Lilly says. "I learned to turn that around and think, How can I make sure that another girls best friend doesnt die? 

For more from these students and the parents of those who were killed, read this week's issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday.

Dont Tell Me Youre Sorry  Tell Me Things Will Change

Anjelica Jardiel Henry Terifay with a tattoo for his slain friend Chase Kowalski, who was 7

Henry Terifay, 18

After the summer, Im going to the University of Hartford to study communications because I enjoy talking to people. One of my closest friends, Chase Kowalski, died in the shooting. I got his name tattooed on my back with a heart in Sandy Hook green when I turned 17. Its on my shoulder so that the tattoo shows through my singlet when I wrestle. In the yearbook, you can see Chases name. I sent it to his mom because I knew he wouldnt have been in the yearbook otherwise, and she said, I appreciate you.

Courtesy Henry Terifay Henry Terifay wrestling

A friend who was in one of the classrooms is my best friend now. It really could have been him too. Its just crazy to think about how were graduating without all of those people. I think about them all the time. When I get ready, I can see Chases name in the mirror, but not in a sad way. I dont want people to tell me, Im so sorry, youre so strong or Our prayers are with you. I want more commonsense gun laws.







"They give us inspiration and hope for the future."

Carol Po, Jr. Newtown Action Alliance co-adviser







Anjelica Jardiel 2012 Sandy Hook survivors and 2024 graduates, including Ella Seaver (center, smiling)

I Learned Grief Didnt Have to Consume Me

Anjelica Jardiel Ella Seaver

Ella Seaver, 18

I vividly remember our principal saying, Get to your safe spot, and then hearing the phone drop and hit the ground as the shooting began. Once I was home, I was still confused, but then I watched my sister be absolutely hysterical in our front hallway, which I had never seen before.

Lilly Wasilnak (left) and Ella Seaver after Newtown High's June 12 graduation

Im planning to go to Lafayette College and major in psychology. I want to become a therapist. What I really want to show kids our age, or anyone impacted by gun violence, is that you can still have a life and find joy. You can still work to not only make shootings happen less, but also show how grief doesnt have to be so consuming. Its kind of like a yin and yang. The sorrow has to live within the joy.

Everything I Do Is for the Classmates Who Died

Anjelica Jardiel Lilly Wasilnak

Lilly Wasilnak, 18

After graduation, Im going to the University of Connecticut, but Im undecided about what to study. Graduation is happy, but its sad. Its hard because a lot of adults are telling us how were supposed to feel. For me, this is all Ive ever known. I dont really remember much before the shooting.

As I got older and there were other shootings, I realized this wasnt just a one-time freak accident. I know how much I hurt being in the shooting. I want to do more to make my classmates deaths more meaningful. In high school I found the Jr. Newtown Action Alliance and thought, This is a step. To miss 20 kids out of your class, theres no way to go about it without remembering them. Everything I do is for them.

Im Going Into Politics So Our Loss Isnt in Vain

Anjelica Jardiel Matt Holden

Matt Holden, 17

We had a nice graduation ceremony to remember those who should be here right now while also celebrating those who are moving on. I am committed to attending George Washington University next year to study political science. I actually plan on going into politics to focus on gun safety.

Courtesy Matt Holden Matt Holden

For me, the most pressing memory of the shooting was walking out of the school. My mom came running up to me and held my head in her hands. I had never seen her cry before. That was what told me, Somethings gone horribly wrong. My parents said there were friends that Id never see again. But even then, it took me years to fully realize. We want to prevent it from ever happening again so that their loss isnt in vain  and so that we can try to combat the guilt from surviving that sticks with you.



I Want to Give Back. Sharing My Story Matters

Anjelica Jardiel Grace Fischer

Grace Fischer, 18

Im going to be on a prelaw track at Hamilton College in the fall. I want to be a civil rights lawyer to give back to communities that are struggling, like how Newtown was impacted by the Sandy Hook tragedy. I want to fight for justice on others behalf in the case that they cannot fight on their own.

Courtesy Grace Fischer Grace Fischer swimming

Growing up, I definitely had some issues with really loud noises. I feel like everyone around me deals with the shooting in a similar way. Were all there for each other, even people who werent at the school. With everyone understanding what people have been through, its a very tight community, and Im happy that we have that. A trip to Washington, D.C., this past December made me realize that I do have the courage to speak to people in power, and that sharing my story over and over again does really make an impact.

Anjelica Jardiel 2012 Sandy Hook survivors and 2024 Newtown High graduates







"We want to help people. We all carry this."

Graduate Emma Ehrens







Know That Youre Not Alone

Anjelica Jardiel Emma Ehrens

Emma Ehrens, 17

I remember going to the front of the classroom to read a book, and then the banging started. We didnt think much of it until a guy walked in with a gun. He started shooting all my friends. He shot my teacher and then he was going to shoot me, but someone who did not make it, Jesse Lewis, screamed at us to run. Either the gun jammed or he needed to reload, Im not sure. We ran. Growing up, youd always have people who knew what youd been through but also pitied you in a way. You never really got the option to have a normal childhood. I needed one person to just see me as a kid.

Courtesy Emma Ehrens Emma Ehrens

I have struggled really bad with survivors guilt, considering Im one of the students who made it out of [classroom 10, where five kids and their teacher died]. But it means a lot that I am here today. Im committed to Roger Williams University on a prelaw track, same as Grace. I may go into civil rights. In terms of coping after a shooting, its really important to know that youre not alone and we are fighting for change.

My Twin Brother Died, but I Carry Him in My Heart

Courtesy Veronique De La Rosa Arielle Pozner, who graduated in Florida in May

Arielle Pozner, 17

We were rambunctious kids. Together we were unstoppable. At first, I still thought Noah would show up in a few months. We had three booster seats in the back of our car, for me, Noah and our sister Sophia, and I remember the day my dad took out one of them was the day it solidified. I will always feel a vacancy, but I wear a locket with his photo  even in the shower. I try to talk about him a lot so that he doesnt become lost.

Courtesy De La Ro Arielle Pozner's art

I am going to a local college here in Florida, and Im passionate about artmostly painting and figure work. I really am at a good point in my life.

I Found My Happy Place Where I Can Rest Easy

Courtesy Bryce Maksel Bryce Maksel after his Ridgefield, Connecticut, graduation in June

Bryce Maksel, 18

That day altered my life. It took a while for me to process what happened in my class, because the flashbacks and PTSD started kicking off harder in middle school. My whole personality got ripped away. One day Ill be able to talk about it, hopefully soon. It seems like every year theres a new school shooting. Little kids. When is it going to stop?

In ninth grade I moved about 30 minutes away. Now Im going off to a Florida school for aviation mechanics. It feels like I found my happy place where I can rest easy.

I'll Save Other Kids as a Doctor

Courtesy Carlos Arokium Cyrena Arokium at her 2023 Newtown High graduation

Cyrena Arokium, 18

I remember seeing my second grade teacher's face and I knew something was wrong. She put us all in the corner near our cubbies, and she was telling us to be quiet. She started to read us Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss. The kids that aren't graduation, they're definitely in my heart. At my graduation last year, I was thinking about them. I try not to let Sandy Hook define me anymore. I don't want this to happen to anyone. I don't like fireworks anymore or popping of chip bags. Also just being in crowded spaces and there's nowhere to go  that always gives me very bad anxiety.

I go to college in Georgia and I want to be a cardiothoracic surgeon. I had open heart surgery when I was 5. Going through Sandy Hook, I was like, 'I really want to do medicine and probably specialize in pediatric cardiothoracic surgery.' I want to help the kids I couldn't save.

There's Healing for Me in Speaking Out

Courtesy Audrey Johnson Audrey Nichols (right) graduating from Newtown High in 2023

Audrey Nichols, 19

I was in second grade. We were going to watch The Polar Express and drink hot cocoa and make paper snowflakes. I remember the gunshots very, very vividly. To this day, whenever I hear a loud noise, it's almost like a visceral reaction in my body. It's not like my mind necessarily remembers, but my body remembers. I start shaking. I hate the 4th of July. I hole up in my room. I have two sets of noise-canceling headphones on.

But I do find a lot of healing in sharing my story and trying to make sure this doesn't keep happening, which unfortunately is the reality. So I got into activism. On the anniversary this year, I was just sitting in my room staring at the wall trying to figure out how I was able to walk out of the building and so many people weren't. I'm a rising sophomore at the University of Connecticut. My college essay was about paper snowflakes and how everything you go through is kind of like a cut in your paper snowflake.



Anjelica Jardiel The Sandy Hook school shooting memorial in Newtown, Connecticut

Our Kids Are Gone, but Never Forgotten

Nicole Hockley, Dylan's mom

Courtesy Nicole Hockley (2) Nicole Hockley (left) and son Dylan

I focus on my work [running Sandy Hook Promise, an anti-gun-violence group] as a way to not deal with the harder things. Dylan would have turned 18 in March, yet for me, hes still 6. Its hard to make those two things be true. Whenever he was excited, Dylan would flap his arms and say, Im a beautiful butterfly. So I think about the butterfly effect: The more we flap our wings, being kind or using our voice, the more change can come.

Scarlett Lewis, Jesse's mom

Jesse Lewis; Scarlett Lewis Scarlett Lewis (right) and son Jesse

I didnt go to the graduation. That might have been too painful. But its been really meaningful that the kids acknowledged Jesses courage. They have an incredible opportunity to use all theyve learned through tragedy for the benefit of others. Thats why were here. Thats the world I want to live in. I think what Ive done through the Choose Love Movement I started has made Jesse an inspiration. We all have the capacity for bravery he showed.







"Every year there are different milestones and every year there's a change of seasons and holidays, all of those things  but this one's a doozy."

Victim Daniel Barden's dad, Mark Barden







Mark Barden, Daniel's dad

Courtesy Barden family; Seth Wenig/AP Mark Barden (right) and son Daniel

Im always thinking about him: What would he be doing today, what would he look like? Of all the experiences that have been stolen from him, high school graduation is very special, and its so hard to get my head around it. But I never lose sight of the privilege I have of being able to honor my little Daniel through my work [with Sandy Hook Promise] to spare other families this lifetime of pain and grief from losing a loved one to preventable gun violence.

Michele Gay, Joey's mom

Courtesy Gay Family; Crystal VanderWeit (/The Decatur Daily via AP Michele Gay (right) and daughter Josephine "Joey"

Every one of these milestones causes you to step back and think about where you would be if things had gone differently. We continue to have a lot of her fingerprints all over our group Safe and Sound Schools. Joey was a force in this world and in our lives, and we all just kind of orbited around her. Her laughter was ever-present. You literally carry the loss. But you just have to learn to move around it. And if you do, you find that youre very strong.









"They have an incredible opportunity to use all theyve learned through tragedy for the benefit of others"

Victim Jesse Lewis' mom, Scarlett Lewis







Alissa Parker, Emilie's mom

Courtesy Alissa Parker ; Cloe Poisson/Hartford Courant/MCT via Getty Alissa Parker (right) and daughter Emilie

Her two younger sisters are both in high school now, so all three of them would be in high school together. As my girls get older and realize what they've missed with Emilie and what they don't remember with her, it's interesting how those emotions can be so strong in them still. But there are some people vicariously that were close to Emilie. She had this sweet friend, Arianna, and we've stayed in touch all these years. Watching her grow and watching her develop her art, which Emilie was really interested in, has been really fun. And she thinks about Emilie all the time. As far as the legacy with Safe and Sound, I'm just so proud that in the beginning you just don't want your child to have died in vain. You want it to mean something, but you don't want it to just mean anything either. And for me, the idea that Emilie's life now is tied to protecting and saving other children and the people who've worked at schools, there's nothing that would make me more prouder.

These interviews have been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Read the original article on People.
Kim and Putin at a meeting in North Korea. Photo: The Kremlin's website

Russian propaganda publications have said North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un expressed "full support" for Russian aggression in Ukraine during the Kremlin leader's visit to North Korea.

Source: Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency RIA Novosti; Sky News; South Korean news agency Yonhap; North Korea Central News Agency

Details: It is reported that the talks between Putin and Kim, with delegations participating, lasted about an hour and a half.

Quote from Kim (quoted by RIA Novosti): "The government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea appreciates the important mission and role of a strong Russian Federation in maintaining strategic stability and balance in the world, and expresses its full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out a special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity."

Details: According to the North Korean dictator, the world situation is rapidly changing and becoming more difficult, and "in these circumstances, Pyongyang intends to strengthen strategic communication with Moscow."

Russian propagandists write that Kim stressed that "the DPRK will unconditionally support all Russian policies".

Sky News and Yonhap published similar quotes from Kim. They reiterated the message published on the Russian propaganda websites TASS and RIA Novosti.

Sky News writes that Putin's visit to Pyongyang will likely change relations between Russia and North Korea at a time when both countries are facing international isolation.

In its usual grandiloquent manner, the Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim personally met Putin at the airport, "unable to contain his joy", and escorted him to his accommodation, having a "heart-to-heart conversation".

The publication also writes that both politicians enjoyed the "beautiful night landscape", shared "innermost thoughts and exchanged views for a more reliable development of relations between the DPRK and the Russian Federation." The Korean Central News Agency does not provide any quotes about Kim's support for the Russian war.

Background:

In March, South Korea reported that North Korea had sent about 7,000 containers containing ammunition and other military equipment to Russia since last year.

South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik said that DPRK's munitions factories are working at full capacity to supply weapons to Russia.

The United States has information, confirmed by satellite imagery, that North Korea has delivered over 1,000 containers of ammunition to Russia.

In mid-June, Shin Won-sik said North Korea had sent at least 10,000 containers to Russia by sea, which could contain up to 4.8 million artillery shells.

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Russia and North Korea sign partnership deal that appears to be the strongest since the Cold War

Russian President Vladimir Putin, left, and North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un exchange documents during a signing ceremony of the new partnership in Pyongyang, North Korea, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Putin and Kim signed a new partnership that includes a vow of mutual aid if either country is attacked, during a Wednesday summit that came as both face escalating standoffs with the West. (Kristina Kormilitsyna, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

HANOI, Vietnam (AP)  Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed an agreement Wednesday that pledges mutual aid if either country faces aggression, a strategic pact that comes as both face escalating standoffs with the West.

Details of the deal were not immediately clear, but it could mark the strongest connection between Moscow and Pyongyang since the end of the Cold War. Both leaders described it as a major upgrade of their relations, covering security, trade, investment, cultural and humanitarian ties.

The summit came as Putin visited North Korea for the first time in 24 years and the U.S. and its allies expressed growing concerns over a possible arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine, in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kims nuclear weapons and missile program.

From North Korea, Putin traveled to Vietnam, where he exited his plane onto a red carpet and briefly shook hands with dignitaries while soldiers in white dress uniforms stood at attention. In Hanoi, Putin is scheduled to meet with Vietnams most powerful politician, Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, and new President To Lam, as the Russian leader seeks to strengthen ties with a longtime partner.

During Putin's visit to North Korea, Kim said the two countries had a fiery friendship, and that the deal was their strongest ever treaty, putting the relationship at the level of an alliance. He vowed full support for Russia's war in Ukraine.

Putin called it a breakthrough document reflecting shared desires to move relations to a higher level.

North Korea and the former Soviet Union signed a treaty in 1961 that experts say necessitated Moscows military intervention if the North came under attack. The deal was discarded after the collapse of the USSR, replaced by one in 2000 that offered weaker security assurances. It wasnt immediately clear if the new deal provides a similar level of protection as the 1961 treaty.

Kim met Putin at the airport, where the two shook hands, hugged twice and rode together in a limousine. The huge motorcade rolled through the capitals brightly lit streets, where buildings were decorated with giant Russian flags and portraits of Putin.

After spending the night at a state guest house, Putin was welcomed Wednesday morning in a ceremony at the citys main square, filled with what appeared to be tens of thousands of spectators, including children with balloons and people in coordinated T-shirts of the red, white and blue national colors of both countries. Crowds lining the streets chanted Welcome Putin, and waved flowers and flags.

Putin and Kim saluted an honor guard and walked across a red carpet. Kim introduced key members of his leadership, including Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui; top aide and ruling party secretary Jo Yong Won; and the leaders powerful sister, Kim Yo Jong.

At their talks, Putin thanked Kim for North Koreas support in Ukraine, part of what he said was a fight against the imperialist hegemonistic policies of the U.S. and its satellites against the Russian Federation.

Putin praised ties that he traced to the Soviet army fighting the Japanese military on the Korean Peninsula at the end of World War II, and Moscows support for Pyongyang during the Korean War.

What kind of support was pledged in the agreement was not spelled out. Explanations of the agreement by the leaders did not specify what the mutual assistance would be in the event of aggression against either country  troops, materiel or some other sort of aid.

Kim has used similar language before, consistently saying North Korea supports what he describes as a just action to protect Russias interests and blaming the crisis on the Wests hegemonic policy.

North Korea is under heavy U.N. Security Council sanctions over its weapons program, while Russia also faces sanctions by the U.S. and its Western partners over its invasion of Ukraine.

U.S. and South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid. On Tuesday, a U.S. State Department spokesman said that in recent months, Washington has seen North Korea unlawfully transfer dozens of ballistic missiles and over 11,000 containers of munitions to aid Russias war effort.

Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations of weapons transfers, which would violate multiple U.N. Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Kims efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking U.S.-led efforts to impose fresh U.N. sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

In March, a Russian veto in the Security Council ended monitoring of U.N. sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang.

Putins foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov told reporters in Pyongyang the leaders exchanged gifts. Putin presented Kim with a Russian-made Aurus limousine and other gifts, including a tea set and a naval officers dagger. Ushakov said Kim's presents to Putin included artwork depicting the Russian leader.

Later, Putin and Kim attended a concert featuring marching soldiers, weapons-throwing, dancing and patriotic songs. Putin clapped and spoke to Kim through a translator, saying something that made both laugh.

The Russian leader also visited the hurch of the Life-Giving Trinity in Pyongyang and gave a Trinity icon to the Orthodox church.

At a dinner before he left for Vietnam, Putin cited a proverb that said a close neighbor is better than a distant relative, while Kim toasted the immortality of the invincible DPRK-Russia relations that are the envy of the world.

The Kremlins website said the leaders signed an agreement to build a road bridge on their border, and another on cooperation in health care, medical education and science. Putin also said that Russia would not rule out developing military-technical cooperation with North Korea.

In Washington, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Putins visit illustrates how Russia tries, in desperation, to develop and to strengthen relations with countries that can provide it with what it needs to continue the war of aggression that it started against Ukraine.

Koo Byoungsam, spokesperson of South Koreas Unification Ministry, which handles inter-Korean affairs, said the Seoul government was still interpreting the results of the summit, including what Russia's response might be if the North comes under attack.

China is North Koreas biggest ally and economic lifeline, accounting for most of the countrys trade. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said high-level exchanges between Moscow and Pyongyang are bilateral arrangements between two sovereign states, without giving a specific assessment of the agreements.

Sam Greene of the Center for European Policy Analysis said Putins trip to Pyongyang is an indication of how beholden he is to some other countries since invading Ukraine. Previously, it was always the North Koreans coming to Russia. It wasnt the other way around, he said.

The trip is a good way to make the West nervous by demonstrating Moscow has interests and clout beyond Ukraine, Greene added.

The North could also seek to increase labor exports to Russia and other activities to get foreign currency in defiance of U.N. sanctions, according to the Institute for National Security Strategy, a think tank run by South Koreas main spy agency. There will likely be talks about expanding cooperation in agriculture, fisheries and mining and further promoting Russian tourism to North Korea, the institute said.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kims weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle. The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare.

___

Kim reported from Seoul, South Korea.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A Portland man was sentenced to federal prison on Monday for distributing counterfeit opioids laced with fentanyl and stealing federal funds meant to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, authorities announced.

Yuriy Viktorovich Vasilchuk, 33, was sentenced to four years in federal prison with three years supervised release and ordered to pay $32,855 in restitution to the United States Small Business Administration after pleading guilty to charges of wire fraud and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.

According to court documents, authorities identified Vasilchuk as a local source for counterfeit Oxycodone pills containing fentanyl in early 2021.

I-5 northbound lanes to remain closed due to severe road damage after propane fire

In December 2021, Vasilchuk was found in a stolen vehicle with 88 counterfeit pills and was arrested and released from custody. He was later indicted by a federal grand jury in Portland in May 2022 with one count of possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Following his indictment, Homeland Security special agents and Multnomah County probation officers tried to arrest him again in a stolen vehicle, but as they approached the vehicle, Vasilchuk sped off and nearly struck an officer, officials said.

After fleeing for several miles, and causing multiple crashes, the vehicle became inoperable, and he ran, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office, noting he was later found hiding in an abandoned RV and arrested.

This Oregon city ranks among the worlds happiest: new report

After his arrest, investigators found evidence that Vasilchuk applied for Paycheck Protection Program funds and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA while actively distributing fentanyl between March and November 2021.

In the SBA applications, he falsely claimed he had not been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a felony involving fraud, bribery, embezzlement, or making a false statement on a loan application in the last five years, officials said.

Based on the information he provided, the SBA gave him more than $32,000, which he spent on various personal expenses, authorities said.

In August 2023, he was charged with wire fraud and in March 2024 pleaded guilty to wire fraud and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, resolving both criminal cases.

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Foreign tourists go through procedures at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, June 15, 2024. (Xinhua/Dong Xiaohong)

CHENGDU, June 19 (Xinhua) -- On his recent visit to Chengdu, the capital city of southwest China's Sichuan Province, Estonian tourist Sergei Gruzin found himself deeply impressed by the rich culture, gourmet food and the friendliness of the people, vowing to return for another trip in the future.

During his stay, Gruzin visited the giant pandas, savored local noodle dishes and used mobile phone apps to pay for taxis and hotels. "I found Alipay very convenient for transportation and accommodation," he told Xinhua at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport.

Since China introduced a series of favorable visa-free policies last year, the airport has been bustling with foreign travelers, while the number of international tourists visiting Chengdu has also surged, despite its location in the country's southwestern inland region.

As of May this year, China has reached agreements or arrangements to simplify visa procedures with over 40 countries and achieved comprehensive mutual visa exemption with more than 20 countries.

Official data shows that, the number of foreigners visiting China in the first quarter of this year increased more than threefold compared to the same period last year. A total of 466,000 visas were issued to foreigners, up 118.8 percent year-on-year. Additionally, nearly 1.99 million foreigners entered China visa-free, a year-on-year increase of 266.1 percent.

In the latest update to its visa policies, China has announced that New Zealand and Australia will be included in its list of unilateral visa-free countries. This means that New Zealand and Australian passport holders will be able to enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit, for up to 15 days.

Zheng Jun, general manager of Sichuan Comfort International Travel Service Co., Ltd., said that as of June 10, the company had received 7,864 inbound visitors this year, a 289.69 percent increase on the same period in 2023.

"The number of tourists from visa-free countries or those eligible for group landing visas has significantly increased. This includes visitors from countries such as France, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan and the Republic of Korea," Zheng explained.

Boasting rich and unique tourism resources, Sichuan is home to giant pandas, stunning natural landscapes, a long and storied history, and vibrant ethnic customs. These attributes make it a renowned destination for tourists both in China and abroad. To ensure utmost convenience for international visitors, the province has enhanced its airports, scenic spots, and other facilities with a range of services.

Cui Lei, deputy manager of the terminal management center at the airport, said that customs and security inspection procedures have been streamlined for foreign tourists.

Online platforms now provide 24-hour services for SIM cards, currency exchange, ATM withdrawals and mobile payments, according to Lin Ning, an airport official.

Additionally, all shops within the terminals support various payment methods, including cash, bank cards and mobile payments, ensuring that foreign visitors can make purchases without any hassle from the moment they arrive in Sichuan, Lin added.

At the Kuanzhai Alley, an iconic tourist attraction and historic neighborhood in Chengdu, and the Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum, another popular tourist spot, the availability of convenient and diverse payment methods has greatly improved the consumption experience for foreign tourists.

The museum's visitor service center, relic hall, exhibition hall and online service platform provide multilingual guide services.

"Implementing visa-free policies is an important step in promoting openness and exchange," said Liu Jun, a professor at the tourism school of Sichuan University.

"In addition to providing various convenient services, Chinese tourist cities like Chengdu need to resume and strengthen overseas tourism marketing. This includes introducing foreign tourists to new consumption scenes, emerging business models and new products that have emerged in recent years," Lin added. 

Foreign tourists select cultural and creative products at the Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, May 24, 2024. (Photo by Lei Yuchen/Xinhua)

This photo taken on June 15, 2024 shows a view inside the payment service center for overseas guests at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Xinhua/Tong Fang)

Foreign tourists check in at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, June 15, 2024. (Xinhua/Dong Xiaohong)
Hollywood executive Alki David, photographed at his home in Malibu in 2019, is best known for operating a hologram company that projects images of dead celebrities. (Carolyn Cole / Los Angeles Times)

A Los Angeles jury on Monday awarded a woman $900 million in damages in her sexual assault case against the heir to a Coca-Cola bottling fortune, her attorney announced.

The woman, who was identified as a Jane Doe in her lawsuit against Alkiviades "Alki" David, alleged she was harassed and raped over a three-year period from 2016 to 2019, according to her attorney.

"Its so despicable, the facts of this case. He raped my client while on trial in another case," said her attorney, Gary Dordick.

An attorney for David could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday.

Read more: Meet Alki David: The self-appointed ambassador for the 'wronged' men of the #MeToo movement

The jury award, which Dordick's firm said is believed to be "one of the largest sexual assault verdicts in history," is just the latest against David. He has lost multiple other sexual misconduct cases brought against him, and he and his businesses have been ordered to pay about $70 million in combined damages.

David is known for his company Hologram USA, which creates holograms of dead celebrities. His company portfolio has also included numerous internet streaming services.

The woman who sued David is a model in her 30s who knew him as a "media mogul and billionaire" when she went to work for him at Hologram USA.

Read more: Jury orders billionaire Alki David to pay $50 million in punitive damages in sexual battery suit

From the start of her employment, David's conduct in the office was concerning, the woman claimed. A female colleague told the woman that David had forcibly kissed her, the lawsuit said. And in 2016, the plaintiff alleged David tried to kiss her during a work trip on his private island in Greece, but she turned away and he apologized.

She was laid off later that year and did not speak to David again until 2018, according to the complaint. David then offered her a job as a brand ambassador at his cannabis manufacturing company, Swiss-X.

After accepting the job, David invited the woman back to his hotel room where he had her sample what he said was a CBD product, according to the lawsuit. The woman began to feel inebriated and disoriented and David then masturbated and forced her to touch his penis, according to the suit.

In April 2019, the woman said David raped her in a small room during a business meeting with his Doberman pinscher present, according to the lawsuit.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A view of the state Capitol building in Sacramento. Gov. Gavin Newsom's office mediated secret negotiations over a deal to remove from the November ballot an initiative that sought to gut California's Private Attorneys General Act. (Arturo Holmes / Getty Images for National Urban League)

A deal has been struck between business and labor groups that puts an end to a long battle over a unique California law that allows workers who believe they have been victims of wage theft or other workplace abuses to sue employers not only for themselves but also for other workers.

Some of the largest companies in the state had banded together to place a measure on the November ballot that sought to effectively repeal the law, known as the Private Attorneys General Act, or PAGA. But backroom negotiations this month with unions and Democrats who opposed the initiative have resulted in a compromise that takes the initiative off the November ballot.

Instead, the deal reforms PAGA in a way that both businesses and workers say resolves problems with the law.

Concessions to business groups in the deal mainly involve changes to the penalty structure, making it more difficult for lawyers to simply demand a payout from a company. If companies can show they are trying to correct a violation, by giving back pay to workers and agreeing to change the offending practices, their penalties will be low.

"This package provides meaningful reforms that ensure workers continue to have a strong vehicle to get labor claims resolved, while also limiting the frivolous litigation that has cost employers billions, said Jennifer Barrera, president and chief executive of the California Chamber of Commerce, according to a Tuesday news release from Gov. Gavin Newsom's office announcing the deal.

Labor groups say the changes will help ensure that bad behavior by employers is halted, rather than simply awarding them a settlement and allowing a company to go back to problematic practices. The deal also allows workers to more quickly be paid back for wage theft and other violations.

"We want things fixed, changes that actually do help workers," said Lorena Gonzalez, head of the California Labor Federation. "We are happy with the deal."

The legislative deal would impose a time limit on lawsuits brought: Alleged violations must have occurred within the last year, and the workers bringing the claims must have personally experienced the alleged violations.

The deal also folds in labor-backed Assembly Bill 2288, introduced by Ash Kalra (D-San Jose), which aims to give PAGA more teeth by giving courts the power to order employers to correct violations.

Various labor organizations praised the deal in a news release, saying that it upholds core tenets of PAGA that aim to let workers hold abusive employers accountable for widespread wage theft, safety violations and misclassification of workers as independent contractors.

PAGA is one of workers strongest protections against wage theft that drains at least $2 billion from workers pocketbooks each year. Todays agreement protects this landmark laws fundamental strength: workers right to access justice through our courts," Alexandra Suh, co-president of the California Coalition for Worker Power and executive director of Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance, said in a statement.

The measure, initially set to appear on the California ballot in November, had been the culmination of long-standing efforts by corporate and industry groups to undo the law.

Business groups had criticized PAGA for causing what they described as a proliferation of frivolous and costly lawsuits that hurt small businesses and nonprofits. According to one study, the mounting lawsuits have cost businesses $10 billion during the last decade.

Under the PAGA law, workers would end up getting less money after a long legal process than if they had filed complaints through state agencies, groups backing the measure had said.

The law has helped workers sue companies such as Walmart, Uber Technologies and Google for workplace violations.

There is near universal consensus that PAGA is broken and not working for workers or employers, said Brian Maas, president of the California New Car Dealers Assn., according to a news release from businesses that sought to repeal PAGA. We need sensible reforms to fix the broken system. We support this legislative reform and encourage lawmakers to swiftly pass the measure.

Negotiations over PAGA came amid broader discussions around the 2024 ballot as well as budget conversations in Sacramento underway this month. The governor must sign a balanced state budget by June 30, and the deadline to put measures on the November ballot is June 27.

Proposed changes to PAGA aim to encourage compliance with labor laws by capping penalties on employers that quickly take steps to fix bad practices. For employers that take steps to comply with the labor code before even receiving notice that they will be sued under PAGA, penalties are capped at 15% of the amount that would have otherwise been awarded. For employers that work to correct violations after receiving a PAGA notice, penalties are capped at 30%.

More of the penalty money would go to workers, with their allocated share increasing from 25% to 35%.

The reform would levy a new, higher penalty of $200 per pay period on employers that act maliciously, fraudulently or oppressively in violating labor laws.

Changes also aim to protect smaller companies by creating a process through which they can correct violations through the state labor department, to reduce their litigation costs.

Small businesses throughout the state have been targeted by frivolous PAGA lawsuits for decades, even forcing some restaurants to shut down, Jot Condie, president and CEO of the California Restaurant Assn., said in a statement. The reform package will "reduce shakedown lawsuits against small businesses.

The Legislature will consider the reform legislation agreed to under the deal as early as this week. If the compromise is approved and signed by the governor, the coalition of businesses backing the initiative, called the Fix PAGA coalition, will remove its measure from the ballot.

Labor groups had raised an alarm about the ballot initiative in recent months, arguing that PAGA is a crucial tool for workers, since California struggles to enforce basic labor laws.

Although California has some of the toughest labor laws in the country, a study released last month by a team of researchers from UC San Francisco and Harvard University found that workers routinely experience abuses over pay, work schedules and other issues.

A recent audit of the California labor commissioners office found that claims of wage theft filed by California workers are routinely left in limbo for years by state investigators. The labor commissioner's office would need to hire hundreds of additional staffers to effectively address a massive backlog.

Newsom's office, as part of the deal, will pursue a budget-related bill to give the California Department of Industrial Relations the ability to expedite hiring in order to improve enforcement of wage theft claims.

Read more: Secret negotiations heat up in Sacramento as budget, ballot deadlines loom

Negotiations over the deal have lasted months and appeared to be going nowhere, but Newsoms office, which was mediating the discussions, stepped in with a firmer hand this month. The deal came together over the last few weeks and was finalized on Monday, said a source familiar with the negotiations.

Though weve successfully negotiated a dangerous measure off the November ballot  we can only hope that this deal encourages more employers to follow the law and pay their workers what they are owed. Californias worker advocate attorneys will continue to work vigilantly to ensure that they do," said Kathryn Stebner, president of Consumer Attorneys of California.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- Keir Starmers Labour Party is heading for a 162-seat majority in next months UK general election, according to a More in Common poll thats the latest to point to Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak being swept out of office after the vote in 15 days time.

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Labour is likely to win 406 seats, almost doubling their tally from 2019, while the Tory count is projected to more than halve to 155 seats, according to the seat-by-seat analysis by More in Common for the News Agents podcast. The Liberal Democrats are on track to take 49 seats  up 38 on the last election.

While the survey projects a smaller Labour majority than other recent so-called multi-regression and post-stratification (MRP) modeling, a 162-seat majority would still be more than double that secured five years ago by former Tory Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and approaching Labours best-ever election result, the 179-seat majority secured in 1997 by Tony Blair.

The fact that this projection showing the Conservatives barely holding 150 seats is one of the most favorable to the Conservatives shows how deep a hole the party finds itself in  with barely two weeks to go for them to change the dial, More in Common Director Luke Tryl said in a statement.

The survey didnt project any seat wins for Brexit campaigner Nigel Farages Reform UK party, which has recently overtaken the Tories in at least one national poll. A long fieldwork period may not have captured Reforms recent rise in the polls, Tryl said on the social media platform X.

Separately, a constituency poll by Survation in Clacton, where Farage is standing as a candidate, showed him easily winning the seat with 42% of the vote, compared with 27% for the Tory incumbent, Giles Watling.

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LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Two businesses in Lancaster County were burglarized early Wednesday morning and police are asking for the publics help to identify the culprits.

According to Columbia Borough Police, two suspects made entry into the businesses, located at the 100 block of Lancaster Avenue (Rt. 462), by pushing in window air conditioners.

Photo of second suspect, from Columbia Borough Police

Photo of second suspect, from Columbia Borough Police

Photo of first suspect, from Columbia Borough Police

Photo of first suspect, from Columbia Borough Police

Once inside, police said the burglars took money but the exact amount stolen was not disclosed.

Ruse used by police to arrest wanted Lancaster County man

In a reminder, police said that if you are using window air conditioner units, make sure the window is secured so the AC unit can not be removed.

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Police are asking anyone who has information regarding the burglaries to contact them at 717-684-7735.

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LAPD searching for armed and dangerous man who is out on parole for murder

The Los Angeles Police Department is searching for a man who they say is armed and dangerous and on active parole for murder.

Angelenos should be on the lookout for 42-year-old Ezequiel Garcia, who is described as being about 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing about 160 pounds, according to the LAPD.

Garcia is wanted by police after he allegedly was spotted in a residential neighborhood armed with a rifle.

The initial call came in around 8:15 p.m. Tuesday, with officers being dispatched to the area of 69th Street and Avalon Boulevard in the Florence neighborhood of South Los Angeles.

Officers were provided a detailed description of the suspect and were able to locate him immediately after they arrived on scene, police said.

As responding officers approached, the man, later identified as Garcia, dropped the rifle and fled on foot, leading police into a nearby junkyard.

According to a news release issued Wednesday morning, officers believe Garcia may have still been armed, and additional resources were called to the area to help search for him. After several hours, the search was suspended with Garcia nowhere to be found.

The LAPD continues to search for Garcia and residents of South L.A. are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and to notify the police of any suspicious activity or individuals loitering in the area.

Officials say the Police Department will be increasing patrols in South L.A. while Garcia is on the run, and residents can expect to see more squad cars and uniformed officers in the area.

Anyone with information about Garcias location is urged to contact LAPD Newton Area Detective at 323-846-6547. Anonymous tips can be provided online or by calling 800-222-8477.

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The RNC is preparing for Donald Trump to possibly join the Republican National Convention this summer from prison, Lara Trump said Wednesday.

The presidents daughter-in-law and co-chair of the Republican National Committee was responding to a question during an interview on the right-wing network Real Americas Voice. Host Terrance Bates asked her what would happen if Judge Juan Merchan sentenced the convicted felon and presumptive Republican presidential nominee to prison at his sentencing hearing on July 11.

Heres the bottom line, Lara Trump said. It doesnt matter whether Donald Trump is in Trump Tower, Mar-a-Lago, or anywhere else they may try to put him.

On the day that we, as the Republican Party, will be nominating him as our official candidate and our official nominee for president, he will accept that no matter where he is, she said. He will go on to be our candidate all the way to November 5, when he then is reelected as our forty-seventh president.

Its a departure from what Republican officials were saying only on Tuesday, when Lara Trumps RNC co-chair Michael Whatley ignored the fact that Donald Trump is a convicted felon and insisted that he would be in Milwaukee for the convention.

We fully expect that he is going to be in Milwaukee and able to accept his nomination, Whatley said on Newsmax.

Whether Trump wants to be there is another story. After trashing the city last week in a meeting with House Republicans, Trump immediately attempted to clarify his words and made things worse. This week, he attempted to deny making the comments at all, even after multiple people at the meeting had already confirmed it. But, given the choice, its a safe bet that Trump would much prefer a convention hall full of supporters to a New York correctional facility.
Lara Trump: Dons ready to accept Republican nomination even if hes in prison

Lara Trump: Dons ready to accept Republican nomination even if hes in prison

Donald Trump could be sentenced to prison just days before the Republican National Convention  but the RNC co-chair says that wont stop him from accepting the partys nomination.

Lara Trump, who is also Trumps daughter-in-law, discussed the possibility that hush money trial judge Juan Merchan could jail the former president days before the GOP convention during an interview with Real Americas Voice host Terrance Bates.

The former president made history last month when a jury found him guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records in connection with a scheme to influence the 2016 election. He had pleaded not guilty.

Trumps sentencing date is slated for July 11, four days before the Republican National Convention starts in Milwaukee.

It doesnt matter whether Donald Trump is in Trump Tower, Mar-a-Lago, or anywhere else they may try to put him, Lara Trump told Bates on Tuesday. On the day that we, as the Republican Party, will be nominating him as our official candidate and our official nominee for president. He will accept that no matter where he is. He will go on to be our candidate.

She also echoed the former presidents election interference claims about the criminal case and called it a positive for his campaign, referring to a spike in fundraising following the conviction.

Democrat Lawfare Wont Stop President Trump@GOP Co-Chair @LaraLeaTrump says regardless of Judge Merchans sentencing, scheduled four days before the Republican National Convention, Donald Trump will accept the Republican presidential nomination: People in this country see pic.twitter.com/U8rMROAHq2  Real America's Voice (RAV) (@RealAmVoice) June 19, 2024

I believe every time the Democrats try their lawfare or whatever kind of crazy tactic it is to take down Donald Trump, it actually boomerangs on them in some way and makes Donald Trump even stronger, Lara Trump continued. And this will be no different.

On Tuesday, the New York Court of Appeals rejected Trumps constitutional challenge to the gag order that Judge Merchan imposed in order to protect witnesses, jurors, and others from Trumps threats.

Trump speaks during his campaign event, in Racine, Wisconsin (REUTERS)

On the same day, he held a campaign rally in Racine, Wisconsin, days after he reportedly called nearby city Milwaukee as horrible.

The city will also be hosting the Republican National Convention.

I love Milwaukee, he insisted at the campaign event.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Police arrested a teenage boy after another teen was shot and killed during an alleged drug deal in northeast Las Vegas.

According to police, on Wednesday, June 5 at around 8:40 p.m., officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department responded to the 3900 block of North Nellis Boulevard, near North Las Vegas Boulevard, after reports of gunfire.

Officers were told a 15-year-old boy was shot and medical personnel took him to a local hospital. Hospital staff later pronounced him dead.

Detectives learned the victim was in the area to purchase narcotics. After he arrived, the vehicle he was in was approached by armed suspects who shot at the vehicle, police said.

Police identified a 14-year-old teenage boy as the suspect in this case. Police arrested him on Friday, June 14 and booked him into the Clark County Juvenile Hall for multiple felony charges including open murder with a deadly weapon.

The name of the teenage suspect was not released at the time of publication due to his age.

The identification of the victim, as well as the cause and manner of death, will be released

by the Clark County Coroners Office.

Anyone with any information about this incident is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide

Section by phone at 702-828-3521, or by email at homicide@lvmpd.com. To remain

anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555, or on the Crime Stoppers website.

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After last effort failed, Broward School Board has a new plan, timeline to close schools

After failing to choose some schools to close this spring, the Broward School Board tried again Tuesday by asking the superintendent to pick at least five schools by November to close in the 2025-26 school year.

The board also asked the superintendent to come up with programs to add to some schools and to develop a communications plan to attract students back to schools.

Board members hope those efforts will fix the school districts most pressing issue: a critical decline in enrollment. For the past two decades, Broward Public Schools have been losing thousands of students progressively to charter and private schools, leading to a hemorrhage in state funds too. Board members want to lessen the financial blow by downsizing, and by regaining families.

READ MORE: Broward Schools employee, mother of trans student athlete speaks out

It is indeed unfortunate that we are at this point, but we have 43,000 empty seats, said Jeff Holness, a board member, on Tuesday.

Earlier this year, former Superintendent Peter Licata tried to start the process of closing some schools and adding programs to others, calling the endeavor redefining our schools. But he left the school district abruptly in April, and shortly after, the redefining plans fell apart, facing intense criticism from the public. Now Superintendent Howard Hepburn will try again.

The School Board voted 7-2 on its motion Tuesday, with board members Torey Alston and Daniel Fognaholi opposing it. Alston raised concerns about the criteria the school district will use to select the schools to close; Foganholi didnt explain his reasoning.

READ MORE: New plan: Broward wont close any public schools. But changes are still coming

How will the Broward school district choose schools to close for 2025?

In the districts first attempt, Licata and his cabinet decided themselves which schools to impact and then presented the ideas to the community in different town halls.

Hepburn went a different route.

He wants to first create committees made up of students, parents, staff and other stakeholders in July and August. Then he will train those committee members and send them out to speak to communities in different areas in September and October.

Dr. Howard Hepburn, right, is ceremoniously sworn into office as the new superintendent BCPS by Broward County Judge (Retired) Zebedee Wright, left, as his wife, Sheba, holds the Bible, second from the left, and daughter, Audrey, 7, looks on, on their wedding anniversary, Wednesday, May 29, 2024, inside the boardroom of the Kathleen C. Wright Administration Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Each committee will have a list of potential schools that could close or change in a specific area. That way, each community in each area will come up with a few ideas on how to solve their own issues and ultimately name at least one school to close there.

The school district will come up with the lists for the committees to consider by narrowing down their total 239 schools using the following criteria:

Enrollment at the school

Whether the school has any historical significance

Whether the school was built before 1960

The school type (elementary, middle, high)

The performance grades the state has given the school (the district will look at a five-year average)

Student demographics in the neighborhood (how many kids live there and what percentage is attending charter schools)

If the schools in question are not considered historically significant, have concerns around aged facilities in poorer condition, and have lower percentages of assigned students attending, these conditions would make them more practical and appropriate candidates for closing, Hepburns memo reads.

FROM MARCH: Lets look at the root causes: Community weighs in on potential Broward school closures

Issues with Hepburns plan?

Alston disliked the criteria because, he said, it will disproportionately affect Black and brown communities. To prevent that, he proposed ensuring that at least one school closes in each board-assigned district.

His idea would mean that seven out of the nine board members experience at least one school closing in the communities that elected them. The other two board members hold at-large seats, meaning they represent the entire county.

We need to do this fairly, he said. We need to do this so there is an impact countywide.

Zeman challenged Alstons notion.

It is a false choice to say we either pass this or were being racist, he said. I think we need to think about our decisions on a school-by-school basis with an equity lens.

Dr. Allen Zeman, Countywide At-Large Seat 8, speaks during a press conference at the Broward County School Board meeting, where one of the items is talking about a new superintendent, on Tuesday, May 2, 2023, in downtown Fort Lauderdale

Sarah Leonardi, another board member, said she refused to mix politics and schools closing.

I do not believe in using political boundaries in making these types of decisions, she said.

The board approved Hepburns suggestion, along with the criteria. That means once the committees bring back feedback from the public, the school district will present to the School Board in November some options of programs to implement and schools to close.

Allen Zeman, a board member, said that although the motion asks for a minimum of five, he hopes the district presents way more than five schools to close. He wants that because of the severity of the under-enrollment and because it will be hard for the board to agree on a final list.

Barring any emergencies in the fall well be able to meet this timeline, Hepburn said. If there are any obstacles well let the board know, but right now were pretty confident well meet it.

READ MORE: Check the map of Browards most under-enrolled schools
The Latest | Hezbollah says Israeli strikes kill 3 fighters as US envoy tries to calm tensions

A Palestinian girl stands at the entrance of her family tent at a makeshift tent camp for those displaced by the Israeli air and ground offensive on the Gaza Strip in Khan Younis, Gaza, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)

Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon killed three Hezbollah fighters on Wednesday, the militant group said, as a U.S. envoy tasked with avoiding a devastating regional war returned to Israel after meeting officials in Lebanon.

Lebanese state media reported multiple Israeli strikes along the border and in an area north of the coastal city of Tyre, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) from the frontier. The Israeli military said two Hezbollah launches damaged several vehicles in northern Israel.

Amos Hochstein, a senior adviser to U.S. President Joe Biden, was back in Israel after meetings in Lebanon on Tuesday. There has been no word on whether he has made progress in his efforts to avoid a wider war.

With the Israeli offensive in Gaza now in its ninth month, international criticism has grown steadily over the U.S. support for Israels air and ground attacks. The top United Nations court has concluded there is a plausible risk of genocide in Gaza  a charge Israel strongly denies. Israel blames civilian deaths on Hamas, saying militants operate among the population.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed Tuesday that the United States was withholding weapons needed for the war in Gaza. Biden has delayed delivering certain heavy bombs to Israel since May over concerns about killing civilians in Gaza. However, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that those 2,000-pound bombs are the only weapons under review. He told reporters that Everything else is moving as it normally would.

Israels war against Hamas in Gaza has killed more than 37,100 people, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count. The war has largely cut off the flow of food, medicine and other supplies to Palestinians who are facing widespread hunger.

Israel launched the war after Hamas Oct. 7 attack, in which militants stormed into southern Israel, killed some 1,200 people  mostly civilians  and abducted about 250.

Currently:

 For a second time, a ship attacked by Yemens Houthi rebels sinks in the Red Sea.

 Muslim pilgrims wrap up the Hajj with final symbolic stoning of the devil and circling of the Kaaba.

 Israels Netanyahu blames Biden for withholding weapons, but U.S. officials say thats not the whole story.

 Sudan accuses the United Arab Emirates of fueling war with weapons to paramilitary rivals.

Follow APs coverage of the war in Gaza at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war

Here's the latest:

US military strikes sites in Yemen controlled by Houthis

U.S. Central Command said Wednesday that its forces had destroyed a ground control station and a command and control node in an area of Yemen controlled by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels.

The U.S. military said in a statement that the sites presented an imminent threat to U.S. forces, coalition forces and merchant vessels in the region.

Central Command said its forces also destroyed two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea.

The statement came hours after authorities said a bulk carrier had sunk in the Red Sea days after an attack by the Houthis.

The U.S. has led a monthslong campaign in the region trying to defend commercial vessels and warships from the attacks, which Houthis claim are in response to the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

Israelis living near Lebanon border say life is growing intolerable

JERUSALEM  As rocket fire from Lebanon streaked over the northern Israeli city of Kiryat Shmona Wednesday, the citys remaining inhabitants said life there was growing intolerable after eight months of near-daily fighting between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group.

Booms rang out overhead and residents ran for safety. Cars lining the streets bore cracked windshields from past attacks and windows were blown out.

It is scary, said Uri Vazan, a resident of Kiryat Shmona. You dont know when it is coming to you, suddenly you have an alarm, suddenly missiles fall.

Israels military said 15 rockets from Lebanon were fired at Kiryat Shmona on Wednesday, provoking retaliatory Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets. The cross-border fighting has turned the formerly bustling Israeli city into a ghost town.

To be here is not easy. It is scary, it is unbearable, it cant be contained, said resident Shishi Phima.

Top U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein visited Israel and Beirut this week as part of efforts to quell tension and help achieve a diplomatic solution that could see residents return to their homes. But progress has seemed elusive. On Tuesday, Israels army announced it had approved and validated plans for an offensive in Lebanon. On Wednesday, the leader of Hezbollah said the group has new weapons and intelligence capabilities that could help it target more critical positions deeper inside Israel in case of an all-out war.

Cyprus distances itself from military operations in the Middle East

NICOSIA, Cyprus  The president of Cyprus says the east Mediterranean island nation is in no way involved in any military operations in the region or elsewhere.

President Nikos Christodoulides was responding Wednesday to remarks by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah who warned that Cyprus could be implicated in a wider conflict if the island nation allows Israel to use its ports and airports to target Lebanon.

Christodoulides said Nasrallahs remarks dont in any way reflect whats being attempted, which is to present a picture that Cyprus is involved in military operations.

The Cypriot president said his country is part of the solution, not part of the problem and is recognized throughout the Arab World and internationally through such initiatives such as the Cyprus-Gaza maritime corridor delivering humanitarian aid by ship to the Palestinian territory.

He said there are avenues of communication with both Lebanon and Iran through diplomatic means.

Israeli strikes have destroyed more than 70% of Rafah's facilities and infrastructure, official says

GAZA  Israeli strikes have destroyed more than 70% of the facilities and infrastructure in Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip, head of the Rafah municipality Ahmed al-Sufi said in a statement Wednesday.

He accused Israeli forces of systematically targeting camps in Rafah, adding that entire residential areas in the Al Saudi neighborhood have been destroyed. Al-Sufi didnt immediately respond to a request for additional information.

Israeli tanks and helicopters fired at a Palestinian ministry building overnight Tuesday in southern Gaza, setting a number of tents next to the warehouse on fire, displaced Palestinians who were sheltered nearby told The Associated Press.

Five people were killed in the attack, according to Palestinian media. The AP was unable to immediately verify this figure.

We were sleeping at 1 oclock at night, when suddenly we heard the sound of screaming. We went out running, carried the children and went out running, and we found a fire burning in front of us, a big fire, said Mohammad Abu Hasera, originally from Gaza City, who was near the warehouse during the attack.

A video circulating on social media and posted by an Israeli military correspondent Wednesday morning shows the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing, including the terminal, which appears to be the only structure still intact there since the IDF launched its ground operations last month.

UN says its workers were unable to pick up aid due to chaos

UNITED NATIONS  U.N. humanitarian workers werent able to pick up desperately needed aid shipments at the Kerem Shalom border crossing from Israel because of the lack of law and order in the area, the United Nations said.

U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters that even though there was no fighting Wednesday on a new route where Israel has declared a tactical pause in daytime military action, the law and order issue prevented U.N. workers from picking up aid.

This means that no trucks carrying aid have been able to use the new route since Israel announced the daily pause Sunday on the road between the Kerem Shalom border crossing and Gazas main north-south Salah al-Din Road.

Haq noted that the United Nations has been warning about lawlessness and unrest for several days.

Asked who was responsible, he said, its probably a combination of several factors including criminal gangs taking advantage of the unrest and a lot of frightened people who are hungry.

The responsibility of Israel as the occupying power does not stop at Kerem Shalom where aid is dropped off, Haq stressed. It includes ensuring that this assistance reaches women, children and elderly who need it the most and creating the enabling environment to do so.

Haq said five fuel trucks that traveled via the fence road did enter Gaza Wednesday through the military gate. The U.N. humanitarian office reported these were the first fuel deliveries since early June and supplies remain scarce.

Currently, the U.N. agency helping Palestinian refugees known as UNRWA, estimates that only 65,000 remain in the southern city of Rafah, where 1.4 million people had fled seeking safety. Almost the entire population of Rafah fled after Israel issued evacuation orders about three weeks ago and began military operations.

Haq said large numbers of Palestinians have fled to Khan Younis, Dier al-Balah and other areas of southern Gaza, where he stressed that very limited amounts of food are getting in because of the closure of the Rafah border crossing from Egypt, which had been a main conduit for aid deliveries

Hezbollah says at least 3 fig hters were killed in Israeli strikes

BEIRUT  The Hezbollah militant group says at least three of its fighters were killed in Israeli strikes on Wednesday as a U.S. envoy works to quell tensions.

Lebanese state media reported multiple Israeli strikes along the border and in an area north of the coastal city of Tyre, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) from the frontier. The Israeli military said two Hezbollah launches damaged several vehicles in northern Israel.

The fighting came as Amos Hochstein, a senior adviser to U.S. President Joe Biden, returned to Israel after meeting with officials in Lebanon on Tuesday. There has been no word on whether he has made progress in his efforts to avoid a devastating regional war.

Kamel Mohanna, the head of the Amel Association, an NGO providing health services in Lebanon, said the groups primary health center in the town of Khiam was hit and damaged by Israeli shelling. Mohanna said he was visiting another health center in south Lebanon, which had been previously struck and then repaired, when the Khiam center was hit.

Hezbollah began attacking Israel almost immediately after the Israel-Hamas war erupted on Oct. 7. There have been near daily exchanges of fire, though most of the strikes are confined to an area within a few mostly confined to the area around the border.

But the fighting has escalated in recent weeks, raising fears that the clashes could boil over into a full-blown war. Israels army announced late Tuesday that it has approved and validated plans for an offensive in Lebanon.

Israeli strikes already have killed more than 400 people in Lebanon, most of them Hezbollah fighters, but at least 80 of the fatalities were civilians. In northern Israel, 16 soldiers and 11 civilians have been killed.

Israeli drone strikes kill a Syrian army officer, state media says

DAMASCUS, Syria  A Syrian army officer was killed in an Israeli airstrike Wednesday morning, Syrian state media said.

State news agency SANA reported that Israeli drone strikes hit military sites in the areas of Quneitra and Daraa in southern Syria, killing an officer and resulting in material damages.

The Untied Kingdom-based war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the strikes came after members of factions affiliated with the Lebanese militia Hezbollah transported the wreckage of an Israeli reconnaissance plane to one of the targeted sites to dismantle it.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli army on the strikes. Israel frequently launches strikes on Iran-linked targets in Syria but rarely acknowledges them. The strikes have intensified since October against the backdrop of the war in Gaza.

For a second time, a bulk carrier attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels sinks in the Red Sea

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  A bulk carrier sank days after an attack by Yemens Houthi rebels believed to have killed one mariner on board, authorities said early Wednesday, the second ship sunk in the rebels campaign.

The sinking of the Tutor in the Red Sea marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Iranian-backed Houthis in their campaign targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

The attack comes despite a monthslong U.S.-led campaign in the region that has seen the Navy face its most intense maritime fighting since World War II, with near-daily attacks targeting commercial vessels and warship.

The Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated Tutor sank in the Red Sea, the British militarys United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said in a warning to sailors in the region. The Houthis, quoting foreign reports in media outlets they control, acknowledged the sinking. The U.S. military did not acknowledge the sinking, nor did it respond to requests for comment.

United Nations human rights office spotlights 6 Israeli attacks on Gaza as possible crimes against humanity

GENEVA  The United Nations human rights office has spotlighted six deadly bombing attacks by Israeli defense forces in Gaza during the first nine weeks of the war, saying they could amount to crimes against humanity.

The rights office says that more than eight months into the conflict, and despite commitments from Israel to look into such attacks, authorities have not produced transparent or credible investigations. Volker Turk, the U.N. human rights chief, said the requirement under international law that combatants avoid or minimize harm to civilians appears to have been consistently violated in Israels bombing campaign.

The comments came along with the release of a new report Wednesday that seeks to highlight the dangers posed to civilians of the use of powerful weapons, including 2,000-pound GBU-31 bombs. It said a Dec. 2 attack on Shujaiya neighborhoods of Gaza City destroyed 15 buildings and damaged 14 others. Three of the strikes, it said, came with no advance warning.

Israeli authorities responded by defending their respect for proportionality and principle of distinction under international law. They also accused the rights office of bias and said it didnt have full information about the circumstances of the military operations.

The report, while mainly focusing on Israel, also said Palestinian armed groups have fired discriminately into Israel, possibly violating international law.

The office said part of the reason why the six attacks were spotlighted among thousands carried out was because it had extensive information about them.
KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Wednesday that China is willing to work with Malaysia to promote the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and the Asian values featuring peace, cooperation, inclusiveness and integration, and jointly safeguard ASEAN centrality in regional cooperation.

Li made the remarks in a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. 
NEW YORK (PIX11)  Westchester County Executive George Latimer and U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, the two candidates in the Democratic primary for New Yorks 16th Congressional District, faced off in a debate on PIX11 Tuesday night.

PIX11 political reporter Henry Rosoff spoke with Latimer after the debate.

More Local News

Its not a popularity contest. It is whether or not you have the grasp to have what it takes as a legislator to accomplish something, not only from the district standpoint but also by contributing to the overall nation. I have been in office for a number of years, and I have proven that I can do that, said Latimer.

Watch the video player for the full interview.

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.
Lawsuit over Oklahoma's ban on gender-neutral birth certificates can go on, court rules

An appeals court has reversed the dismissal of a lawsuit targeting Oklahoma's ban on gender-neutral birth certificates, which was put into place by an executive order issued by Gov. Kevin Stitt.

A lawsuit seeking to overturn Gov. Kevin Stitts executive order banning gender-neutral birth certificates will continue to be heard after a key appeals court decision this week.

On Tuesday, the three-judge U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver reversed a lower courts dismissal of the lawsuit, which targets Stitts executive order in 2021 that barred the Oklahoma Health Department from issuing nonbinary or gender-neutral birth certificates.

The lawsuit was brought by three transgender Oklahomans who are seeking to change the gender designation on their birth certificates: Rowan Fowler, Allister Hall and Carter Ray. They alleged that by refusing to amend gender designations on birth certificates, the state is violating free speech rights enshrined in the First Amendment by forcing transgender Oklahomans to identify with a gender that does not match their gender identity.

The panel of appellate court judges  appointees from the Biden, Obama and George W. Bush administrations  found that the plaintiffs made a plausible claim to equal protection under the law.

There is no rational connection here  the policy is in search of a purpose, the panel wrote. Because the policy does not survive rational basis review, it cannot survive intermediate scrutiny.

More: Ruling over school library control could encourage other lawsuits on administrative rules

The suit seeks to have Stitts executive order declared unconstitutional and to compel the state health department, upon request, to change a persons birth marker to reflect their gender identity.

New York-based Lambda Legal, which represents the plaintiffs, lauded the appeals courts decision.

This ruling stands as a monumental win for the transgender community in Oklahoma and nationwide, sending a clear message to lawmakers everywhere that unconstitutional discrimination against transgender people will not be tolerated by the courts, Lambda Legal Senior Counsel Peter Renn said in a statement.

The governor defended his executive order Wednesday.

Im always going to protect Oklahoma values and our way of life, Stitt said in a statement. My executive order from 2021 made it clear that Oklahoma birth certificates will align with science and Oklahoma law, not a social agenda. Oklahoma will continue that fight as it continues to work through the courts.

The decision overturns a 2023 ruling issued by U.S. District Judge John W. Broomes, an appointee of former President Donald Trump. Broomes granted Oklahomas motion to dismiss the case, finding in part that the state successfully argued its policy protects the integrity and accuracy of vital records, including documenting birth information and classifying individuals based on the two sexes.

Broomes also found the policy does not violate free expression under the First Amendment.

Stitt issued the executive order after a former Oklahoma resident  as part of a legal settlement with the health department  obtained a birth certificate matching their nonbinary gender identity. Nonbinary people do not identify as strictly male or female.

Traditionally, the Office of Vital Records, which is housed within the health department, has issued birth certificates or amended birth certificates only with the sex designation of male or female.

Stitt contended in his order that by issuing a gender-neutral birth certificate, the health department had amended the document in a manner not allowed by state law.

Stitts executive order prohibits the health department from amending a persons gender marker on a state-issued birth certificate, even if the person presents a court order, according to the lawsuit.

More: Oklahoma County judge rules most of lawsuit over Catholic charter school can continue

Fowler began transitioning in 2021 and sought a court order to change her traditionally male first and middle names to be consistent with her female gender identity, according to the lawsuit.

After obtaining a court order signing off on the name changes, Fowler sought to change the gender marker on her birth certificate.

The lawsuit alleges Oklahomas refusal to issue Fowler a birth certificate that matches her gender identity is stigmatizing and blocks her from changing her personal information on other documents. Fowler also has said shes faced harassment and discrimination because the gender on her drivers license doesnt match her gender identity.

U.S. Circuit Court Judge Harris L. Hartz, a Bush appointee, wrote a partial dissent of Tuesdays ruling.

Hartz agreed the policy unconstitutionally discriminates against transgender persons because the denial of a right to obtain an amended birth certificate with a revised gender identity disadvantages and was intended to disadvantage transgender persons and there is no reasonable justification for the discrimination.

Hartz disagreed with the majoritys conclusion that the plaintiffs established a sex-discrimination equal-protection claim.

The element of intent to disadvantage a class (male or female) is unproved, Hartz wrote.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Lawsuit targets Oklahoma ban on gender-neutral birth certificates
Legal cannabis likely wont be in this years PA budget, but supporters say theres a silver lining

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  Gov. Josh Shapiro made legalizing recreational marijuana a centerpiece of his budget pitch this year, but cannabis advocates and Pennsylvania lawmakers say such a proposal is unlikely to be part of a final deal.

Democrats who control the state House have yet to find consensus on how to regulate a multibillion-dollar industry and include the people most harmed by drug criminalization in the new market. Meanwhile, the lawmaker who controls what legislation the GOP-majority state Senate considers still opposes legalization.

Passing a legalization bill with the budget due June 30 is probably not a realistic timeframe, said state Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny, chair of the House Health Committee.

Still, legalization advocates say theyre closer than ever to success, citing allies in both parties, legalization in all but one of the commonwealths neighbors, and a blueprint in the passage of medical marijuana.

Were on a path to get this done, Frankel told Spotlight PA.

Polling shows the issue is popular with voters in the lead-up to a contentious election in November. Three proposals had been introduced in the legislature as of mid-June  two with bipartisan backing  and more are on the horizon.

The cannabis industry itself, which sees big profits in Pennsylvania, is pushing hard for legalization, employing dozens of lobbyists at at least nine different firms to make their case to legislators. They largely support a bill that would create a new regulatory board dedicated to marijuana and allow existing medical marijuana companies to transition into the recreational market.

Legislative Democrats who have spearheaded legalization talks this year want to allow the people most affected by marijuana criminalization to participate in the new industry and to ensure legalization doesnt adversely affect public health.

Chief among the roadblocks is deciding how the new industry would be structured.

In his February budget pitch, Shapiro asked lawmakers to pass a 20% tax on recreational marijuana sales. He estimated that doing so would bring in more than $250 million in annual tax revenue once the industry is off the ground.

Shapiro also asked that a bill include expungement for people convicted of nonviolent possession of small amounts of marijuana, and echoed legislative calls for the industry to include previously criminalized groups. And he wants the state Department of Agriculture to regulate the industry.

He left the rest of the details up to the legislature.

Frankels committee has since held many hearings on the issue. He said he heard from a parade of interests that, while often well-meaning, want to create a great business opportunity.

That experience led him to support the sale of marijuana in state-owned stores, similar to existing ones that sell liquor and wine. Twenty-one other Democrats have signed on to a bill that would create such stores.

Its clear that if our main priority is protecting public health from unintended consequences of for-profit commercialization, then a state-owned system for adult-use cannabis may be a way to it, Frankel said.

Frankel argued such a system would let the state take on the risk of managing the volatile new industry and protect Pennsylvania farmers.

There is a lot to like about this mode, but there are certainly other ideas and approaches out there to be considered, he added, saying that his own proposal will depend on what his colleagues back.

Frankel also expressed interest in adopting some measures from Canadian law. One would be to require edible flavors to be unappealing to children and come in varieties such as broccoli or beets instead of the candy-like options popular in states with adult-use cannabis.

Such ideas, particularly state sales of marijuana, are opposed by the industry and some advocates. But Frankel said he wouldnt be fazed by their concerns.

I would be somewhat skeptical of a bill that was universally and enthusiastically endorsed by the industry, and I think that [in] my experiences, sometimes the best policy doesnt make every stakeholder happy, he told Spotlight PA.

Reaching a consensus in the closely divided state House is only the first hurdle for legalization. The next  and much bigger one  would be winning over the Republican-controlled state Senate.

Legislative Republicans have long blocked action on cannabis by citing its federal status as a Schedule I drug, which the Drug Enforcement Administration says has no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.

President Joe Bidens administration this year began the process of reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug. But state Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman, R-Indiana, told Spotlight PA in a statement that he still has concerns.

I continue to hear from drug and alcohol providers in my district that have reservations about the use of marijuana and its impacts on addiction, Pittman said. I have long believed this issue is something the federal government needs to figure out.

Those concerns have been echoed by influential interest groups, such as the states manufacturers association, law enforcement organizations, and some childrens advocates.

But Meredith Buettner, executive director of the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition, a trade organization that represents medical marijuana permit holders, believes the right circumstances could force the legislature to act. The state is currently flush with surplus cash but faces long-term revenue issues it will one day be forced to reckon with.

Stranger things have happened during the month of June in Harrisburg, she told Spotlight PA.

Whats on the table

In addition to the legislation that would create a state system to sell marijuana, there are two other bills currently before the legislature.

One, from state Sens. Dan Laughlin, R-Erie, and Sharif Street, D-Philadelphia, would create a new board to regulate the industry and allow medical marijuana companies to sell to recreational customers  a priority for existing sellers.

To address calls for social justice, the bill would reduce permitting fees for, and approve grants and interest-free loans to, social and economic equity applicants.

Such applicants would need to make less than $75,000 a year. They would also need to have been arrested for a nonviolent drug offense or lived for at least five of the past 10 years in a location with higher-than-average poverty or incarceration rates.

The bill would also allow established medical sellers, such as publicly traded, multistate companies, to receive additional permits if they partner with an equity applicant. The existing company, or other established marijuana executives, could also own up to 10% of their social equity clients business.

A bipartisan state House bill proposed Monday mirrors much of Laughlin and Streets proposal. However, it would allow an existing company to receive additional permits only once its equity client opened its doors.

The bill would also put the state Department of Agriculture in charge of regulating both the existing medical marijuana program and new recreational sales, as proposed by Shapiro, rather than creating a new board.

Were trying to take everybodys best practices and best ideas and put it into a bill, state Rep. Emily Kinkead, D- Allegheny, told Spotlight PA.

Industry advocates have supported these proposals. But the language concerns Cherron Perry-Thomas, a grassroots advocate for adult-use cannabis who previously worked as a marijuana marketer.

Contracts between established companies and budding entrepreneurs, she told Spotlight PA, are predatory. She also argued that established businesses shouldnt be able to hold any stake in new companies coming from the Black and brown communities harmed by the over-policing and criminalization of marijuana consumption.

Instead, she wants to see the law incentivize business partnerships between small rural farmers and urban entrepreneurs.

Were asking for first right of refusal for communities who were impacted by the war on drugs, Perry-Thomas told Spotlight PA.

She also agrees with the marijuana industry on a few proposals. She concurs Pennsylvania needs a new regulatory agency dedicated to marijuana and that selling cannabis products through state-run stores, as suggested by Frankel, would stifle small-time producers.

Street has heard the concerns about social equity, and said that haggling over the exact language is at the top of his agenda for the coming weeks.

Theres agreement that the language as written is insufficient, and that we got to do more, Street told Spotlight PA.

He has pitched allowing licensed small growers to hawk their wares at special sites that are specifically for cannabis, similar to farmers markets.

Getting equity provisions right has troubled other states. Connecticut state officials are auditing their marijuana programs equity council, which is charged with verifying applicants credentials and handing out grant money to impacted communities. Industry-backed bills in Pennsylvania include similar mechanisms. New York, meanwhile, struggled to find a funding source for equity grants and ended up cutting a deal with a private equity firm.

State Rep. Napoleon Nelson, D-Montgomery, chair of the Legislative Black Caucus, told Spotlight PA that an equitable bill for communities that have been overpoliced and overcriminalized was a priority for any legalization bill.

He didnt go into details about specific policies that would earn the blocs backing in the closely divided legislature.

We ought to say what were for, Nelson said, and not what were against.

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.
Leonard Peltier, an Indigenous activist imprisoned nearly 50 years ago in the killings of two FBI agents, is awaiting the outcome of his first parole hearing in 15 years, all the while struggling with a growing list of health issues.

Peltier, who's 79 and a member of the Turtle Mountain Chippewa tribe, sits incarcerated at a federal maximum security prison in Coleman, Florida. He has always maintained his innocence in the crimes and is seen by many as the longest-serving political prisoner in the United States.

His parole hearing was June 10, and now the U.S. Parole Commission has 21 days to decide whether he will finally be set free for the first time since 1975. FBI Director Christopher Wray urged the panel not to release Peltier.

Peltier was a leader in the American Indian Movement during the Wounded Knee occupation, which began in 1973 on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. During the occupation, tribal leaders hired vigilantes to undermine AIM activity and were aided by the FBI, according to the Free Leonard website.

Supporters of the movement asked Peltier to help support and protect the people targeted. On June 26, 1975, two FBI agents in unmarked cars followed a pickup truck, which eventually led to the shootout and the death of the two agents.

Peltier was convicted and imprisoned, and his health has declined over time. His attorney, former federal Judge Kevin Sharp, has been working on the case pro bono for the past four and a half years, and talks about the ailments afflicting the elderly Indigenous man.

In addition to enduring constant physical pain, Peltier suffers from a potentially deadly aortic aneurysm. Due to insufficient monitoring in prison, a rupture could be fatal. Peltier also has Type 2 diabetes, and Sharp said it is not being monitored as it should be and cant be controlled, again because he is in a maximum-security prison.

You are locked up but they are also locked down frequently, so you can't monitor the way you hoped to do with someone in his condition, Sharp said. And you don't have access to the proper food and exercise as a diabetic. If his sugar drops, he just has a schedule of insulin, it's not based on anything other than time.

He has dental issues, and his diet consists of a lot of peanut butter and bologna. He utilizes a walker because of his hip issues, is in constant danger of falling and has fallen more than once. Peltier also suffered a stroke, one of the many things Sharp said has led to a deterioration of his mental health.

When youre 79 years old that's trouble, Sharp said. Physiology of being in your 70s and 80s and once you become immobile and bedridden even for a short period of time, that takes years off your life, and that becomes a real danger.

Sharp said Peltier is realistic about parole but is also optimistic, and right now they are hopeful that the parole commission sees that there is no point in having him die in prison.

But we are realistic that there are forces out there that are opposing justice for him, Sharp said.

FBI director argues against Peltier's release

That force remains the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which has long opposed Peltier's release. Hundreds of FBI agents marched in front of the White House in 2000 to protest the possibility that former President Bill Clinton would grant clemency to Peltier.

Although Peltier has had individuals who have petitioned for his release, such as Pope Francis, the Dalai Lama, Nelson Mandela and Bishop Desmond Tutu, the FBI continues to oppose his release.

FBI Director Christopher Wray wrote to the U.S. Parole Commission "on behalf of the entire FBI family to express our adamant opposition to Leonard Peltiers latest application for parole.

Peltier is a remorseless killer who brutally murdered two of our own before embarking on a violent flight from justice, wrote Wray, appointed as director of the FBI by former President Donald Trump, who recently was convicted of 34 felony convictions.

Wray said the crimes also include a postconviction escape from federal custody, during which he and his crew fired shots at prison employees. He also argued that Peltier has never accepted responsibility or shown remorse and that the ailing Peltier is unfit for parole.

To release Peltier now would significantly depreciate the seriousness of his offense and promote disrespect for the law, writes Wray.

When Sharp is asked how he knows Peltier didnt kill the agents, he simply replies: I can read the record and see there is no evidence of it. The prosecutor tells us, they're the ones who say they dont know who shot the agents and theyre the ones who called their own evidence that it was Peltier 'sketchy.'"

Activist Nick Tilsen, president and CEO of NDN Collective, answers questions at the group's booth during the Indigenous Peoples Day Phoenix Fest.

FBI accounts differ from evidence, attorney says

In his letter, Wray recited what the FBI says happened on June 26, 1975. He asserts that Special Agents Jack R. Coler and Ronald A. Williams were searching for a fugitive when Peltier and others ambushed them with a barrage of gunfire. Peltiers group fired over a hundred rounds, while the two outnumbered agents managed to return only five shots. Following the attack, Wray said, Peltier approached the wounded agents and brutally executed them at close range.

Peltier shot Special Agent Coler twice in the head as he lay on the ground unconscious. Special Agent Williams was on his knees, unable to stand, when Peltier shot him in the face through an outstretched hand, wrote Wray.

He said the shots were fired from a high-velocity, small-caliber firearm and that eyewitnesses placed the murder weapon in Peltiers hands. A .223-caliber cartridge retrieved from the trunk of one of the agents cars was later linked ballistically to Peltiers AR-15.

There is still that kind of opposition, mostly from the FBI, and it's because they told this story and they're not letting go no matter what the facts have revealed over the years" Sharp said. "You have them take the position that Leonard Peltier shot these agents when we know for a fact he did not."

Sharp said witnesses were intimidated, perjured testimonies were created and "all of that is without question today. We know all that."

He said a juror in the case had confessed to being "prejudiced against Indians," which were her exact words, and the judge allowed her to stay. Today, this would be considered ineffective assistance of counsel, Sharp said. Allowing a juror with racial or ethnic prejudice against a defendant to serve violates the Sixth Amendment protection of the right to a fair and impartial jury.

"What happened was the government clearly argued Peltier was the principal shooter," Sharp said. "So, they have the shell casing and that's it. They have a ballistics experts who tells things that are not true on the stand."

It was reported that the FBI withheld exculpatory evidence, a ballistics test that indicated it was not Peltier's gun. Wray, who did not mention in his letter that the ballistics evidence had to be obtained through a FOIA request years later, wrote that for decades, Peltier has tried to undermine the ballistics evidence, citing an interim teletype written by the firearms examiner prior to his final report that Peltier obtained after trial.

Rather than sticking with the principal shooter theory, Sharp said the assistant U.S. Attorney went with the theory of Peltier aiding and abetting.

"That's where the 8th Circuit reluctantly upheld the conviction," Sharp said. "The law has since changed and that would never stand up today. Now it's back to the way it should have been and was before, that were you deprived of a fair trial by not having access to exculpatory evidence, and the answer would be absolutely he was and he would get a new trial. Today when prosecutors do that, they can lose their law license for hiding that kind of evidence. In the 1970s it was just another world."

Sharp said in the face of zero evidence, FBI continues to take their position.

"It's one of those 'If you tell a lie long enough, it becomes the truth.' Those forces and that story is a powerful story that they tell," he said.

Questions remain about the parole hearing

"The reason we fight for Leonard so fiercely is that how Leonard was treated during his prosecution and during his continued incarceration is consistent with how they have treated Indian people throughout history," said Nick Tilsen, CEO and president of NDN Collective and a citizen of the Oglala Lakota Nation.

Tilsen was one of only two witnesses that Peltier was allowed, while the other side was allowed five. He noted that Peltier was told he would be allowed the same number of witnesses as the opposition, but that didn't happen. At one point, they were only going to allow Peltier to have one witness.

The hearing took place in the prison's visiting area, and Tilsen said it took nearly seven hours. The prison was on lockdown that day, with a heightened police and FBI presence.

Nick Tilsen, president and CEO of NDN Collective, is a citizen of the Oglala Lakota Nation.

"There was a feeling that it was stacked against us," Tilsen said.

In addition to presenting the reentry plan for Peltier, Tilsen also provided an in-depth historical context of what was happening in 1975.

"I talked about Leonard being a boarding school survivor," Tilsen said. "I talked about how the FBI engaged in a illegal war against the American Indian Movement and the Indigenous people, the first people of this country and how they chose the battlegrounds for that to be Pine Ridge and that's what led up to the shootout."

Tilsen said because of the type of activism carried out by the American Indian Movement and Peltier, who was a member, a lot of advances in the rights for Native Americans had been made, whether it be Native American Freedom of Religion, or the Indian Self Determination Act.

"I told them that Indigenous people and oppressed people everywhere see a little bit of their own struggle in Leonard," Tilsen said. "That's why him being released at particularly this time in history would be healing for oppressed people and Indian people everywhere. As we sat there in that hearing there was tens of thousands of people around the world in prayer and ceremony because Leonard Peltier is a revered leader around the world. He's not the false narrative the FBI has made him out to be."

To help Peltier's reentry, Tilsen said NDN Collective had purchased Peltier a house on his reservation. He said the house would give Peltier something to look forward to, a semblance of hope of a life outside a prison cell and it would strengthen his parole application.

"One of the biggest indicators and criteria in parole is if this person's ready to be released," Tilsen said. "Do they have a support system? Do they have a home? What's life going to be like? So we had to paint a powerful picture at the hearing of what it's going to be like for Leonard Peltier to come back to Indian Country."

Why context and history matter

Context matters, said Sharp: How did we get there? The events in 1975 on the Pine Ridge Reservation didn't just happen, he said, and that to understand it a person has to look back in history to the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890.

"And you can't understand that without understanding all of the massacres, the killings, the stolen land, the broken treaties, all of that," Sharp said. "And then you go, wait a minute, of course Pine Ridge happened. It was going to happen, we just didn't know it was going to happen that day and at that place."

Before taking on the case, Sharp had no idea about Peltier, the American Indian Movement, the occupation of Wounded Knee at the Pine Ridge Reservation or anything about Indigenous history.

"What's happening in Indian Country couldn't be farther removed from my life in 1975," Sharp said. "I'm 12 years old ... what do I know as a kid. None of these issues surrounding the government's relationship and our treatment of the Indigenous people here is taught in school. I know nothing as a kid and I don't know much more than that when I become an adult."

Sharp, a Navy veteran and former federal judge from Tennessee, is the co-vice chairman of Sanford Heisler Sharp and co-chair of the Public Interest Litigation Group. President Barack Obama nominated Sharp to the federal bench, confirmed him unanimously by the Senate, and he received his commission as a federal district court judge in 2011.

He served on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee from May 2011 to April 2017, including service from 2014 to 2017 as the courts chief judge. He resigned as judge in 2017.

In 2019, he was given Peltier's case file and was shocked at what he read, and since then, he has been working on freeing Peltier. During this time, Sharp said they have been denied several times for compassionate relief for Peltier.

"When the file is sent to me, I looked at it as a former federal judge," Sharp said. "I'm looking at not in the context in which it happened but the things that happened. I don't look at it as, 'At that time, why did this shootout happen.' I looked at it as, 'You've arrested someone, here's your investigation fraught with constitutional violations, here's your prosecution fraught with constitutional violations.'"

Arlyssa D. Becenti covers Indigenous affairs for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Send ideas and tips to arlyssa.becenti@arizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Leonard Peltier, convicted for killing FBI agents, awaits parole
Letters to the Editor: Former teachers say it's time to ban smartphones at school

The Los Angeles Unified board considered a resolution to ban smartphones during the school day. Above, teenagers socialize while on their phones. (Nicolas Tucat / AFP / Getty Images)

To the editor: Im a retired Los Angeles Unified School District teacher and administrator, and I fully support banning smartphones during the school day. I suggest theres an even more important reason to do this than those mentioned: Kids scroll and swipe on their phones instead of read books.

In 1984, a National Assessment of Education Progress survey found that 35% of 13-year-olds read for pleasure almost daily. In 2020, the last year reported, that number had dropped to 17%. Is there any doubt that the percentage is even lower today?

The journal Psychological Medicine published a study in 2023 revealing that kids who read for pleasure "scored higher on tests of skills like memory and speech development; had fewer behavioral problems and depression symptoms, and showed an edge in certain measures of brain structure," as reported by U.S. News & World Report.

Other research has found that reading books for pleasure contributes not just to higher test scores, but it also increases empathy, critical thinking and self-esteem and reduces loneliness (ironic, as reading a book is an alternative to "social" media).

Schools need to be brave and take the bold but necessary steps to ban smartphones.

Kirk Jordan, Long Beach

..

To the editor: Smartphones were just coming into vogue when I retired from teaching.

Naive as I was about such things, it never occurred to me that students could not only communicate by text during class, but could send text messages during tests. On one occasion I actually caught a student in the back corner of the class quietly talking to her mother while I was teaching.

As teachers and administrators, we tried to think of ways to eliminate cellphone use. In junior high and high school, students would actually argue with you in front of the class if you tried to take away their phones.

I am a bit surprised to be reading that some districts are still facing the issues I did years ago. Also, the same arguments, particularly about student safety, are used to justify the continued use of phones.

With new evidence that eliminating cellphone use leads to better academic performance and less bullying, I hope for the teachers' sake as well as that of the students that districts can solve this pesky problem.

Lynn Lorenz, Newport Beach

..

To the editor: I taught high school in LAUSD for 38 years, before smartphones.

Students never needed to call parents during school hours. In a real emergency, they could go to the office. A parent could contact the school if they needed to reach a student.

Students and parents need to make prior plans about pick-up times and other events, as they did in the past. For more than 100 years, students in L.A. did not have phones, and today should be no different.

Ban phones on campus.

Janet Cupples, Sherman Oaks

..

To the editor: Ever since cellphones were allowed in schools, kids have become more distracted from learning, and there has been more bullying.

The purpose of school is not only to learn the curriculum, but also to learn about social norms toward fellow humans. What kids learn from social media in many cases is trolling or belittling their fellow students.

There is no need for cellphones in schools other than emergency circumstances. They don't need to be banned, but stored within the classroom at the beginning of each class and retrieved afterward, and the rules on use need to be stricter.

Harry Schwarz, Agoura Hills

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Letters to the Editor: To the Hollywood elite funding Biden's campaign: Thank you

President Biden arrives for a campaign event with former President Obama in Los Angeles on June 15. (Alex Brandon / Associated Press)

To the editor: "Nonsense" is the best way to describe your article, "'Not a happy election': Why this star-studded Hollywood fundraiser is so crucial for Biden."

What's the point of quoting election law professor Jessica Levinson as saying that President Biden "looks out of touch" with Americans, comparing the high cost of attendance at his fundraiser with what most could afford?

This is a high-stakes election, requiring mega bucks not to enrich Biden, but to hire a huge staff and buy expensive ads to drive home the stakes in this election. The money will go toward reminding voters of Biden's accomplishments, in spite of his age, which has been harped about ad nauseam by his political opponents and some in the media.

If well-heeled folks are chipping in to provide Biden such support, it will be appreciated by average Americans whose lives his policies are benefiting.

Michael Russnow, West Hollywood

..

To the editor: Yes, in Los Angeles recently Biden had his biggest fundraiser. The top ticket cost $500,000, and according to Levinson, the event created a double-edge sword by making the president look out of touch.

It's a "damned if he does, damned if he doesn't" situation for Biden.

Where was he supposed to have the fundraiser? At a Denny's? That would really make headlines.

Shelley Keith, Sherman Oaks

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Little Egg Harbor man, 33, admits to robbery that left victim with gunshot wounds

A 33-year-old Little Egg Harbor man admitted to robbing an acquaintance in September with another man who was charged with shooting the victim.

Marc Manfredonia pleaded guilty to the Sept. 9, 2023 robbery Monday before Superior Court Judge Guy P. Ryan in Ocean County Courthouse.

Prosecutors will seek a prison term of 10 years for Manfredonia at his sentencing, scheduled for Aug. 9, Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer said in a statement.

Police in Little Egg Harbor went to an East Hudson Drive home at 4:30 a.m. on Sept. 9 after receiving a report of shots fired in the area. Officers found a 36 year-old man with several gunshot wounds, Billhimer said. The victim was taken to AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Pomona where he was treated and released.

More: Neptune man, 41, found guilty of armed robbery at 7-Eleven

Detectives found that the unnamed victim went to see Manfredonia and his co-defendant, William Miller, 36, of Paterson at the home, Billhimer said.

Manfredonia and Miller threw the victim out and demanded money from him, Billhimer said. Miller threatened the victim with a handgun, saying he would shoot him if he didn't turn over the money through a mobile cash app, Billhimer said.

The victim transfered the cash, but Miller and Manfredonia wanted more, Billhimer said. The victim refused and struggled with his assailants. Miller fired four shots, hitting the victim in the leg, groin and ear, Billhimer said.

After he was shot, Manfredonia and Miller continued to assault him and then went back inside the home, Billhimer said. The victim managed to run to a nearby home where the police were called, he said.

Manfredonia and Miller were both arrested, with Miller being charged with attempted murder, robbery and weapons offenses, charges that are pending. They were both released on summonses to appear in court.

The Major Crime Unit of the prosecutor's office, Little Egg Harbor police officers and detectives, and the Ocean County Sheriffs Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit investigated. The Mystic Island Volunteer Fire Company helped save the victim, the prosecutor's office said.

Ken Serrano covers breaking news, crime and investigations. Reach him at 732-643-4029 or kserrano@gannettnj.com.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Little Egg Harbor man admits to robbing man who was wounded by gunfire
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY)  10 On Your Side has the latest election results from Virginias primary elections on Tuesday night.

Follow along for updates below:

WAVY.com Live Election Results

Leslie Mehta wins Democratic nomination for Virginias 1st Congressional District: The civil rights attorney will now face Republican incumbent Rob Wittman in the primary.

Missy Cotter Smasal wins the Democratic primary for Virginias 2nd Congressional District, AP projects. Shell face Republican Jen Kiggans in the general election.

Kiggans shared this statement on Tuesday night:

Missy Cotter Smasal is an out-of-touch liberal activist who would be nothing more than a rubber stamp for Joe Biden and the Democrats destructive policies. This November, voters in southeast Virginia will once again reject Washington liberals failed agenda and reelect Jen Kiggans, a commonsense conservative with a proven track record of delivering results for families, veterans, and seniors. Virginians are tired of the Democrats taking our country and our Commonwealth in the wrong direction and will come out in November to vote against weak leadership and misguided policies. Missy is the wrong choice for Virginia and the wrong choice for America. Congresswoman Jen Kiggans

Republican Hung Cao wins U.S. Senate primary race: Cao, a Navy veteran endorsed by former President Donald Trump, beat four Republican challengers to win his primary. Early results showed Cao with a substantial lead compared to each of his opponents. Hell face incumbent Democrat Tim Kaine in the general election.

Sen. Kaine released this statement in response on Tuesday night:

Ive been standing up for Virginians for 40 years as a civil rights lawyer and public servant representing my city, Commonwealth and country. As your Senator, Ill keep standing up for an economy that works for all, affordable healthcare, reproductive freedom, enhanced career and technical education and strengthening our military and allies while supporting our troops, veterans, and their families. Im facing an opponent who called a Staunton newspaper podunk and claimed that traveling from Northern Virginia to Abingdon for a candidate forum would be ridonkulous. How elitist! You know Ill stand up for you because I always show up for you. U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-Virginia)

Other results from around the commonwealth:

Democratic incumbent Gerald Connolly won his primary for Virginias 11th Congressional District, the AP reports.

Mike Clancy won the Republican primary for Virginias 10th Congressional District. Democratic incumbent Jennifer Wexton is retiring from the seat after being diagnosed with a rare diagnosis she called Parkinsons on steroids.

State Sen. Suhas Subramanyam won the Democratic primary for Virginias 10th Congressional District, beating 11 other candidates, Decision Desk HQ reports. He was endorsed by Rep. Jennifer Wexton, whos retiring.

Eugene Vindman won the Democratic nomination for Virginias 7th Congressional District race. The district is is currently represented by Democrat Abigail Spanberger, whos running for Virginia governor.

Derrick Anderson won the Republican nomination for Virginias 7th Congressional District.

Click here for more election results.

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.
BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Following a U.S. clue on drugs and money laundering, Chinese police have launched an investigation into a case involving illegal foreign exchange transactions, China's Ministry of Public Security said Wednesday. 
VILLE PLATTE, La. (KLFY)  A dog that laid injured on the side the road in Ville Platte was rescued by local couple.

Its believed a vehicle likely hit the dog, which broke its kneecap. It laid on the side of Chiot Park Road in Ville Platte for three days. Motorists passed by the dog, but no one seemed to stop and help the animal. Matthew and Bre of Heroes Everywhere Animal Rescue got the call and immediately responded. They knew the dog would require medical care, but they could not afford it since they were running a large, makeshift shelter that houses other homeless and needy animals.

Scott firehouse to expand, upgrade with $1M in state funding

Matthew contacted the Humane Society of Louisiana, but they were also to pay for the services. Jeff Dorson, HSLA Director, agreed to help. They brought the dog to a local veterinary hospital, where the attending veterinarian diagnosed the dogs injury as a broken kneecap. In turn, they named the dog after him, Dr. Danny. The Humane Society paid for the visit and set up a GoFundMe for his treatment and aftercare. The group is looking to raise $850.







Evangeline Parish is experiencing a pet overpopulation crisis that will only worsen, said Jeff Dorson, HSLA Director. We urge parish and state officials to work together to secure funds from local, state, and federal sources to build a facility, however modest, Dorson added.

The Humane Society points to a 58-page report that details the need for the state to take an active role and lead in helping stray animals in its report published in 2012. To raise money for spay/neuter surgeries, the Humane Society, with the help of State Representative Lauren Ventrella introduced and passed a bill (now Act 44.)

Latest Stories

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com.
Monroe County activists protest Mountain Valley Pipeline

UNION, WV (WVNS)  Many locals gathered at the Monroe County Magistrate Court in Union on June 18, 2024 for the hearing of Rachel Berkrot.

Funding approved by the West Virginia Water Development Authority for five water and sewer projects in the Mountain State

Berkrot was arrested in connection with protesting the Mountain Valley pipeline on April 20, 2024.

A motion was filed to continue at a later date for the hearing. Among these locals were members of the Greenville Grannies, a group of grandmothers passionately opposed to the Mountain Valley Pipeline.

Nancy Bouldin lives in Greenville within sight of the pipeline. She has been against this project from the beginning.

Well, I feel very badly about it. That its in and operational because it really shouldnt be in operation. Its a risky, untrustworthy pipeline project, said Bouldin.

The Mountain Valley Pipeline spans approximately 303 miles from northwestern West Virginia into southern Virginia.

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.
NEWTON COUNTY, Mo.  Two area men are now speaking their minds about the impending work needed to be done to re-open an area conservation center.

This is an update to the story we first brought you last week.

Few people have as much love for the Walter Woods Conservation Area as Jerry Hickenbottom. Hickenbottom used to live on the property and was its last caretaker before it was sold to the Missouri Department of Conservation for one dollar back in 1985.

Its my opinion and the opinion of several others that no, this land is not a danger to people who use it and it should not be clear cut and stripped, said Hickenbottom.

His concern is over the remediation work to be done by the EPA to the site in order to remove lead-contaminated soil. He worries this pristine property will end up looking just like the private property next door, which the EPA completed recently.

If you are in this area and have seen any of that remediation, basically its a clear cutting of all timber, all buildings, down to two to three feet deep and then theres nothing left, and if the people who come out to this area are aware of that, they will be very upset, said Hickenbottom.

But hes not alone. MSSU Biology Professor Emeritus Dr. Mike Lawson doesnt think the work is warranted because theres not enough lead to pose a threat to people who are just visiting.

Exposure to lead here would be extremely minimal, this is not like living in Galena when we had the Hells Half Acre and people around the smelter that had lived there, theres never been a smelter here, this property has never been mined itself. So, what are the lead levels and what is the plan? said Dr. Lawson.

A Missouri Department of Conservation spokesperson says the EPA will not do anything to the fishing pond, the building, or even the outside entrance. The spokesperson calls Walter Woods a cherished outdoor space, adding the work will create a safer and healthier recreation space for the residents of Newton County.

No word on when the remediation process might start or finish. The men just hope the beauty of the property is preserved.

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.
Ukraine's Armed Forces on June 18 reported an increase in Russian attacks near the town of Toretsk, Donetsk Oblast, after a "long lull" in fighting in the area.

In a post on Telegram, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said its "intelligence, artillery, aviation, unmanned systems" were all working to repulse five attacks launched simultaneously.

"In the Toretsk direction, the Russian occupiers stepped up and started five assaults at once  in the areas of Niu-York, Pivnichne, and Pivdene," they wrote.

"The Defense Forces of Ukraine control the situation and repel the aggressor."

According to the crowd-sourced DeepState monitoring service, Russian forces were attacking in the direction of the villages of Pivnichne and Druzhba, just east of Toretsk.

In comments to AFP, residents of Toretsk reported an increase in attacks on the town.

"They started shooting in the morning and it was going on all day long," one person said.

Over the last few weeks, attention has been focused on Russia's stalled offensive in Kharkiv Oblast, but Russian troops have been steadily advancing in the country's easternmost Donbas region, which remains Moscow's primary target.

Moving west from the ruins of the two occupied Donetsk Oblast cities  Bakhmut and Avdiivka  Russian troops have overrun several small villages and come close to Chasiv Yar and a strategic highway south of the town.

Elsewhere, Russian troops are intensifying attacks in the border areas of Luhansk Oblast with the aim of capturing the village of Borova in neighboring Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine's 3rd Assault Brigade said on June 18.

In a post on Telegram, the brigade said Moscow's forces are using tanks, FPV (first-point-view) drones, and anti-aircraft missiles in an effort to advance, and also claimed they had deployed chemical weapons, without providing further details.

"The front line in Kharkiv Oblast, bordering Luhansk Oblast, is today one of the most intense areas of the enemy's offensive," they wrote.

"The immediate task of the occupiers is to get to the (villages of) Cherneshchyna (and) Pershotravneve, with the subsequent seizure of Borova."

According to the crowd-sourced DeepState monitoring service, Russia has amassed 10,000 troops as part of a "shock fist" to capture the village.

Borova had been occupied by Russian forces in March 2022 but was liberated later that year during Ukraine's sweeping counteroffensive in Kharkiv Oblast.

Read also: Putin lands in North Korea looking for support, weapons, validation

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Daytona Beach News-Journal reporter Eileen Zaffiro-Kean has been writing for the paper for more than two decades. In today's Sunday feature, she tackles a complex and controversial topic: How do we fix Daytona's beachside?

More: Weve gone to the bottom: Does Daytonas party-central image scare off investors?

It was an assignment, she is well-equipped to handle. In 2017, she wrote "Tarnished Jewel: Daytona's troubled beachside," a lengthy investigation into the city's financial investment in the area.

Daytona Beach's Main Street is a shell of its former self. The beachside corridor connecting the Halifax River to the Atlantic Ocean has gone from a bustling business district to a hollowed-out road that mainly comes alive on major holidays and during special events.

Seven years later, I asked her about her most recent take on the area and what, if anything, has changed since she wrote that piece.

More: Daytona Beach has to get over its identity crisis before any real change can occur

Eileen, you have been covering Daytona Beach's waterfront woes for a long time, culminating in that 2017 report. Can you describe that report a bit and tell people how much has changed over the past seven years?

Daytona Beach established the Main Street Community Redevelopment Area in 1982. Designating the area a CRA has allowed the city to capture some of the property taxes generated in that area, and then use the money to improve the beachside between East International Speedway Boulevard and Oakridge Boulevard.

As of 2017, the city had collected $81 million in property tax increment funds in the Main Street CRA, a tally that has now climbed to nearly $110 million. The story I wrote in 2017 explored how the money had been used.

For the current story, I began by walking and driving around Daytona's beachside for nearly five hours. The main thing that struck me is that the housing generally looks better, with fewer extremely dilapidated homes, and some houses that looked very nice. There are a few new businesses on Main Street and State Road A1A, but the area is still struggling to live up to what an oceanfront area is capable of being.

Some have been critical of beach driving. Do some find that a deterrent to investors and businesses?

Yes. One local longtime commercial Realtor put it this way: "Why are we the only beach in Florida that has so many oceanfront commercial lots available? Underwriters for big hotels dont like our drivable beach when compared to 27 other locations in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina."

As hotel projects have come along over the years, developers have sometimes fought to get cars off the beach in front of the property they wanted to build on. They contended their guests would want a quiet, safe traffic-free beach where they wouldn't have to worry about getting hit by a car or truck.

Reporter Eileen Zaffiro-Kean toils in her home office.

Beach driving supporters argue that removing vehicles from the beach between International Speedway Boulevard and Oakridge Boulevard a few decades ago became a deterrent for people who otherwise would have visited that area.

Today's story is a pretty unflinching look at the city's beachfront area as told by the people who know it best. Is there hope for the future?

There's definitely hope for the future of Daytona's beachside. If there's one thing that most everybody agrees on, it's that the area between the Halifax River and Atlantic Ocean still has the potential to be the best part of the city, so I don't think people will ever give up on it.

Many forces could change the current dynamics that have parts of the beachside stuck in stagnation. The Riverfront Esplanade and Brown & Brown headquarters sparked improvements in the downtown that many probably thought they would never see, and the same could happen on the oceanfront.

John Dunbar is Executive Editor of the Daytona Beach News-Journal.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Reporter talks about latest piece on Daytona's beachside problems
Look: Ohio hospital caring for 7 sets of newborn twins at the same time

The Hillcrest Hospital NICU and postpartum units in Ohio are caring for seven sets of twins at the same time. Photo courtesy of Cleveland Clinic Children's/Instagram

June 19 (UPI) -- A hospital in Ohio is celebrating an unusual baby boom while caring for seven sets of newborn twins at the same time.

Cleveland Clinic Children's said on social media that the Hillcrest Hospital NICU and postpartum units are currently caring for multiple multiples.

"We've been feeling double the love caring for seven sets of newborn twins at the same time," the post said.

The post said the families included both first-time and experienced parents.

"First time parents Scott and Katie Krusinski welcomed Finnegan and Theodore," officials wrote. "While Jason and Kara Samblanet are excited to have babies Reid and Elliot expand their now family of seven."
Look: Woman gets her master's from Stanford at the age of 105

Virginia Hislop received her master's degree from the Stanford Graduate School of Education at the age of 105. Photo courtesy of the Stanford Graduate School of Education

June 19 (UPI) -- A woman who left school during World War II finally received her master's degree in education 83 years later at the age of 105.

Virginia "Ginger" Hislop earned her bachelor's degree from the Stanford University School of Education in 1940 and immediately started work on her master's at what is now the Stanford Graduate School of Education.

Hislop's boyfriend, George Hislop, was called up to serve in World War II, leading the couple to get married and leave campus just before she would have turned in her final thesis to get her degree.

"I thought it was one of the things I could pick up along the way if I needed it and I always enjoyed studying, so that wasn't really a great concern to me -- and getting married was," Hislop said in a Stanford news release.

Hislop, who now lives in Washington, remained in the education field by serving on her local school board, chairing the Yakima School Board of Directors, being a founding member of the board of directors for Yakima Community College and helping to start Heritage University in Toppenish, Wash., where she served 20 years on the board.

Hislop returned to Stanford 83 years after leaving to accept her master's degree at the age of 105.

"I've been doing this work for years and it's nice to be recognized with this degree," she said.

She walked across the stage at the GSE Diploma ceremony and was handed her diploma by Dean Daniel Schwartz.

"My goodness," Hislop said. "I've waited a long time for this."
The Los Angeles unified school district board passed a resolution on Tuesday banning cellphones from district classrooms. As the second-largest school district in the US, the vote makes it the largest school district in the US to approve such a ban.

As more educators across the US explore similar policies, California governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday called for a statewide ban on phones in class.

The measure in Los Angeles was introduced by board member Nick Melvoin and will be implemented starting in January 2025 after passing in a 5-2 vote. Melvoin said in a statement the measure is meant to support students academic success and wellbeing, adding that studies have shown smartphones and social media distract kids from learning and stifle their in-person social connections.

Kids no longer have the opportunity to just be kids, Melvoin said. Im hoping this resolution will help students not only focus in class, but also give them a chance to interact and engage more with each other  and just be kids.

The Los Angeles ban is not the first of its kind, with districts increasingly exploring ways to address technology use in the classroom. A measure proposed in South Carolina this month would ban students from using cellphones during the school day across all public schools in the state.

To enforce such bans, school districts have proposed locking up devices in lockers or partnering with companies that provide special pouches to keep devices away until they are released automatically at the end of the day. The superintendents team at the Los Angeles unified school district will spend the next 120 days researching the best way to implement the ban, said Ally Salvaria, communications director for Melvoin, and will be considering those options and more.

Educators attempts to address phone and social media use among students come as the US surgeon general Vivek Murthy urged social media platforms on Monday to issue health warnings for young users amid what he called an ongoing youth mental health crisis.

Related: New York governor to launch bill banning smartphones in schools

While we are late as a society to ultimately making these platforms safer, its urgent that we start taking action now, Murthy said. Because the truth is, theres nothing more important to the mental health and wellbeing of our kids.

Such warnings would mimic those used to reduce tobacco use, first issued in the US in 1966 when 42% of Americans smoked. Today, only 12% of Americans smoke, with the reduction being contributed to a number of factors, including education.

Freedom-of-speech advocates have spoken out against such warnings, stating that efforts to protect childrens safety online should be balanced with privacy concerns. Such bans risk cutting young people off from important resources, said Aaron Mackey, free speech and transparency litigation director at the Electronic Frontier Foundation.

If Congress is serious about protecting children online, it should enact policies that promote choice in the marketplace and digital literacy, he said. Most important, we need comprehensive privacy laws that protect all internet users from the predatory data gathering and sales that target us for advertising and abuse.
Students at Washington Junior High School leaving classes for the day use the unlocking mechanism to open the bags their cell phones were sealed in during the school day, Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022, in Washington, Pa. Citing mental health, behavior and engagement as the impetus, many educators are updating cellphone policies, with a number turning to magnetically sealing pouches. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic) | Keith Srakocic

The Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education passed a proposed student cellphone and social media ban on Tuesday, impacting over 420,000 students. The ban passed with a 5-2 vote and would amend the current policy that already bans cellphone usage during class hours and social media use for non educational purposes, CNN reported.

Los Angeles Unified School District board member Nick Melvoin led the efforts in getting the proposal passed and implemented. Melvoin is concerned by cellphone and social medias effects on students.

The proposal follows other efforts to limit cellphone usage in the state, stemming from a 2019 law that allows school districts to impose limits on students cellphones in school, per CNN.

Our students are glued to their cellphones, not unlike adults. Theyre surreptitiously scrolling in school, in class time, or have their head in their hands, walking down the hallways, Melvoin said, per the L.A. Times.

Theyre not talking to each other or playing at lunch or recess because they have their AirPods in.

The vote comes a day after the publishing of an essay by U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy regarding the detriment of kids mental health due to social media in which he called for mental health warning labels on social media, as earlier reported by the Deseret News.

Proponents of the proposal cite waning mental health, less in-person interaction and Murthys 2023 advisory addressing a possible link between social media and the teen mental health crisis.

According to Tuesdays meeting agenda, Research indicates that excessive cellphone use impacts adolescents mental health and well-being and is associated with increased stress, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, feelings of aggression, and suicidal thoughts.

Further, they argue while headphones and earbuds are tools to promote focus and concentration in the classroom, students use them with their cellphones all day and may become reliant on them  stifling student interaction with their peers and limiting classroom engagement.

They cite a 2016 Common Sense Media study that found half of all teens had reported having an addiction to their phones and another from 2023 that found 97% of 11- to 17-year-olds reported using their phones during school hours.

As argued in the meeting, academic performance and mental health improve with cellphone and social media limits. The gains in academic performance, research shows, were equivalent to an additional hour of instructional time per week.

The district must now seek input from teachers, students, parents, experts and labor partners in formulating a policy update to be presented to the public within 120 days and to be implemented by January 2025, as mandated by the board.

The policy must meet several guidelines, including differentiation by grade-level and device, age-appropriateness, and have consideration for cellphone storage methods.

Supporters of the ban cite some of the benefits mentioned in the Tuesday meeting, like better academic performance and fewer adverse mental health effects, while many parents are concerned their children wont have important access to communication with them.

One parent, AnneMarie Fulton, wrote in a post to the Facebook group Parents Supporting Teachers, explaining her reticence.

I dont want her to not have access to call me if needed, she wrote, per the L.A. Times. Im strict on phone usage anyway, but taking that ability to contact away from a child doesnt exactly seem right.

An elementary school principal echoed Fultons concerns, saying that while the devices cause a lot of unnecessary drama on campuses, she needs my high school student to have hers for her walk home from school.
KHARTOUM, June 19 (Xinhua) -- At least 346 civilians have been killed in El Fasher, the capital city of Sudan's North Darfur State, since May 10, amidst intensified clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to an official on Wednesday.

"More than 346 people have been killed and 2,200 others injured since May 10," Ibrahim Abdullah Khatir, director-general of North Darfur State's Health Ministry, told Xinhua.

"Certainly the real figures are likely more than that," he said, adding that the statistics "only cover the dead and wounded who were registered in hospitals, while a large number of those killed were buried directly."

He noted that the local health system is under severe strain, with only one of the five central hospitals operational, along with a few health centers.

The pressure on services is overwhelming due to a shortage of medicines, particularly anesthesia drugs and essential medical supplies, Khatir said, emphasizing the urgent need for fuel to power hospital electricity and support for hospital staff and public health operations.

Sudan has been embroiled in a deadly conflict between the SAF and the RSF since April 2023, which has claimed 15,550 lives and displaced over 8.8 million people nationwide, according to estimates by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. 
Los Angeles School District Votes to Ban Cellphones During School Hours: Kids No Longer Have the Opportunity to Be Kids

The board said it approved the ban after citing studies that showed smartphones and social media were "distracting kids from learning"

Getty

Hundreds of thousands of students in the Los Angeles area may no longer be able to use phones during school hours.

The Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education  which is the second largest school district in the nation behind New York City  voted on Tuesday, June 18 to approve a ban on cellphone use during class, according to a press release from the school district.

Kids no longer have the opportunity to just be kids, Board Member Nick Melvoin, who introduced the ban, said per the release. Im hoping this resolution will help students not only focus in class, but also give them a chance to interact and engage more with each other  and just be kids.

The board voted five to two in favor of passing the ban, according to ABC News and CNN.

Per the release, the board said it approved the ban after citing studies that showed "smartphones and social media are distracting kids from learning, eroding their mental health and stifling in-person social connection." The intention of the ban was made "with the goal of supporting students academic success and wellbeing."

Related: How Smartphones Are Hurting Our Kids Mental Health: Theres Massive Evidence of Harm (Exclusive)

The ban will prohibit students from using cellphones throughout the school day, including during lunch and break time, according to CNN. The school district said, per ABC News, that it would possibly implement the use of locked pouches, cell phone lockers or other options in order to keep the phones out of students hands during the school day.

There will be differences between schools, LAUSD School Board President Jackie Goldberg told CNN. But the idea is very simple: If you bring your phone to school at all, you park it at the beginning... and youll pick it up on your way home.

However, there are still some details that need to be ironed out, including phone usage in the case of emergencies, including during school shootings, and phone usage for students who use their devices for translation, according to the outlet.

Related: Las Vegas Schools Implement Cell Phone Pouches to Keep Students Off Their Phones

It is important for the Board of Education to balance many interests  including fostering distraction-free learning environments, minimizing inequitable implementation of school policies, and retaining some flexibility and resources for our schools to address their local interests and issues, said Board Member Dr. Rocio Rivas in the release.

The district said it will work to create a comprehensive implementation policy that will take suggestions from experts in the field, labor partners, staff, students and parents, per CNN and ABC News.

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According to both outlets, the district will work to put forward a proposal by the fall 2024 semester, which will be presented during a future board meeting, with the plan to implement the ban beginning in January 2025.

The Clark County School District in Nevada also announced earlier this year that starting in the 2024-2025 school year, students in grades 6 to 12 will have to use signal-blocking pouches to store their phones during classroom instruction.

Per ABC News, the Manchester Public School District in Connecticut also launched a program requiring students to lock cell phones in secure pouches during the school day and the Houston Independent School District also implemented a school-wide cellphone ban, which some students protested in February 2024.

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Louisiana bears the burden of Mississippi River runoff. Why doesnt it push for solutions?

Editors note: This is the second in a five-story series that will examine the slow progress being made on reducing harmful agricultural runoff from the Mississippi River basin, which causes a low-oxygen dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico that threatens wildlife and fisheries.

Thomas Olander has watched his shrimp catch shrink over the last 15 years. Its not just the abundance of Louisiana shrimp; Olander said that the average size of the crustacean has also shrunk.

In the past, shrimpers could expect the crustaceans to grow throughout the spring season, which starts in May in Louisiana waters and generally runs through July. Since weve been dealing with this dead zone,  said Olander. Were not seeing that growth no more.

The dead zone is a stretch along the shallows of the Gulf of Mexico where algae blooms choke off oxygen in the water.

This month, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimated that this summers dead zone would reach 5,827 square miles  an area roughly the size of Connecticut. Thats up from approximately 3,058 square miles in 2023.

These massive algae blooms are caused by nutrients that run off of farms up and down the Mississippi River Basin, which stretches from Northern Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.

Fertilizer that helps crops grow contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. These nutrients run off the fields during rainstorms at the end of the growing season and end up in waterways leading to the Mississippi River.

In 1996, the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico came to national attention through local reporting. The Gulf of Mexico Hypoxia Task Force was established in the fall of 1997  a collaboration of state, federal and tribal agencies  and asked the group to create and implement an action plan.

A closer look at runoff.

A preliminary goal is to reduce both nitrogen and phosphorus by 20% by 2025. But despite some progress, the task force has not yet met its goals.

The U.S. Geological Survey showed that in May 2024, while nitrogen loads in the lower Mississippi River were 7% lower than baseline measurements, phosphorus loads increased by 22%.

The 2025 target is simply not a priority for the task force, said Doug Daigle, a research scientist at Louisiana State University and coordinator of the Louisiana Hypoxia Working Group. He added that neither the task force nor Louisiana attempted to raise funds from Congress to implement programs that would reduce nutrient pollution.

Its a problem with the task force, not just Louisiana. There has not been an organized attempt to garner more funding for the action plan, said Daigle.

Shrimp caught by Thomas Olander on June 4 rest on ice in Cypremort Point, Louisiana.

Where is the Clean Water Act?

The task forces action plan is hindered by a lack of enforceable limits on nitrogen and phosphorus, according to the Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy. Instead, it focuses on voluntary state efforts and guidelines.

In a presentation to the Louisiana Governors Advisory Commission on Coastal Restoration, Protection and Conservation in early June, Daigle said the state has been a passive and largely silent member of the task force.

Daigle said the 176-page strategy is not technically a strategy because it doesnt have any targets or goals. He added that the state has missed years of opportunity to reduce the dead zone.

To address the sheer quantity of nutrient pollution from the upriver basin states, Tulane lawyers suggest that Louisiana could petition the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for greater enforcement under the Clean Water Act.

One section of the law allows for the government to set specific, maximum amounts of daily pollutants for bodies of water deemed to be impaired. Louisiana could petition the EPA to declare sections of the Mississippi River or the Gulf of Mexico as impaired, which would allow for the creation of an enforceable limit on nutrients entering the river upstream.

Louisiana could also petition the EPA administrator to convene an interstate water management conference to address pollution upriver. While the Gulf Hypoxia Task Force currently acts as a mediary between states, it lacks the enforcement power that the Clean Water Act could provide.

But the state has so far not done any of this. Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landrys office did not respond when asked if Landry has any plans to petition the EPA or address the growth of the dead zone.

In 2016, the Gulf Restoration Network sued then-EPA administrator Lisa P. Jackson for the agencys hands-off approach to dealing with nitrogen and phosphorus pollution under the Clean Water Act. This lawsuit followed a petition submitted by several environmental non-profits in 2008 that demanded numeric water quality standards be set for the nutrients.

But ultimately, the Eastern District of Louisiana court ruled that the EPA could continue a voluntary approach to nutrient reduction.

In 2019, when the most recent version of Louisianas nutrient reduction and management strategy was released, Mark Davis, director of the Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy, submitted recommendations for improvements to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ).

Davis wrote that it has become clear that neither the EPA nor the task force would be implementing numeric targets any time soon. Those specific, enforceable limits would not be forthcoming until Louisiana makes their development a priority and focuses the issue on upstream states and the federal government, he wrote.

They did not make a dent, Davis said.

Scientists with the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium prepare to launch a device that measures conductivity, temperature, and depth during the 2023 Gulf of Mexico dead zone research cruise.

The solution to pollution is not distribution

As Louisiana works to review its Nutrient Reduction and Management Strategy, some critics say that the state focuses too heavily on plans to redirect the flow of the Mississippi River.

The Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA) highlights the benefits that would come from plans to reconnect the river to land across the coast.

CPRA is constructing diversions with the main purpose of building and sustaining Louisianas coastal wetlands, said Angelina Freeman, a research scientist at CPRA who was a member of the Louisiana Nutrient Reduction and Management Strategy interagency team.

She explains that by redirecting the rivers flow, nutrients that would have otherwise fueled the dead zone would instead nourish the states recovering wetlands.

A few man-made diversions are already up and running, such as the Caernarvon and Davis Pond Diversions. Davis Pond is restoring wetlands in Luling, Louisiana, in St. Charles Parish while Caernarvon delivers sediments and nutrients to the Barataria Bay in Plaquemines Parish.

The 2023 Louisiana Coastal Master Plan calls for redirecting sediments and nutrients into Barataria Bay on a massive scale through the largest single restoration project in U.S. history. The Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion would build and nourish up to 27 square miles of coastal wetlands over the next 50 years.

But to Daigle, centering the states nutrient reduction and management strategy around sediment diversions such as the yet-to-be-built Mid-Barataria is a mistake.

Until [the diversions] are built and operating they dont do anything, good or bad, he added. Talking about them doesnt accomplish anything. Having them in a plan doesnt accomplish anything.

The solution to pollution is not distribution, said Nancy Rabalais, a professor at Louisiana State University who, for years, led Gulf research cruises to monitor the size of the dead zone.

Rabalais and fellow LSU researcher R. Eugene Turner published a separate June 2024 dead zone forecast that was less dire than the above-average estimate released by NOAA. Their prediction looks at the potential effects of warmer water on oxygen levels.

They emphasize that their reduced forecast is solely due to ocean warming, not to a decline in nitrate loading from the Mississippi River.

Canals carved by oil and gas companies over the past 100 years, like these in Plaquemines Parish, on June 7, have eroded into open water, contributing to a coastal land loss crisis.

Cutting down on nutrients within Louisiana

While the vast majority of nutrients that create the dead zone every summer come from agriculture in the states upriver from Louisiana, there is still a significant input of runoff from farmland within the state itself.

In 2022, the LDEQ published a report on long-term nitrogen and phosphorus trends at ambient water quality monitoring stations across the state. They found that nutrient concentrations are decreasing at the majority of testing locations.

Following these trends, Louisiana received a recent influx of funding to further reduce nutrient runoff within the state from the Gulf of Mexico Division of the EPA.

Earlier this year, the Gulf of Mexico Alliance received a grant to help farmers in northeast Louisiana adopt practices to prevent excessive runoff from entering the Bayou Lafourche watershed, and ultimately the Red River and Atchafalaya Basin.

The Atchafalaya River siphons off 30% of the Mississippi Rivers flow. The Atchafalaya has a growing delta system, such as at the Wax Lake Outlet, but excess nutrients still escape to the Gulf of Mexico, expanding the dead zone to the west.

In Morehouse Parish, farmers are being taught how to limit their contribution to nutrient runoff that would reach the Gulf through the Mississippi-Atchafalaya Basin. The grant will fund new farming techniques, including the subsidizing of cover crops to reduce runoff, which may also increase soil productivity and cash crop yields.

Were doing exactly what we hope and wish everyone north of us would be doing, said Joey Breaux, assistant commissioner of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry. He added that the farmers in Morehouse Parish have been very receptive to the new program.

The $1.4 million grant will run through 2026 with the specific goal of reducing the Gulf of Mexicos dead zone.

The funds will go to help farmers plant cover crops in between growing seasons to reduce soil erosion and prevent nutrients from running off into the river. The farmers will also receive instruction in no-till management, which calls for crops to be planted in narrow rows within the untilled seedbeds of previous crops. Keeping the soil intact increases organic matter and productivity while reducing the need for excess fertilizer.

Olander, the shrimper, said that he wishes the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries would support his industrys losses in the way that they are for farmers. They are really keeping their farmers going, he added. Call me a farmer of the sea; Ill take that title if they would help us.

The Mississippi River drains water from 41% of the country into the Gulf of Mexico at the delta, seen in southern Louisiana on June 7.

What to expect from the next dead zone tour

On August 20, the R/V Pelican will set sail to take stock of this summers dead zone. NOAA will fund a six-day tour of the traditional hypoxic area to the west of the Mississippi River, where the Atchafalaya River also dumps nutrient runoff into the Gulf of Mexico.

This year, the cruise will be extended for four extra days to tour the area east of the Mississippi River. This portion of the cruise will be funded by a grant distributed by the Gulf of Mexico Alliance from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill.

And that tour may bring new scientific research to be considered before Louisiana issues its five-year update to the state nutrient reduction strategy.

This strategy is up for revision, said Daigle, I think it needs a total revision, not just tweaking.

This story is part of the series Farm to Trouble from the Mississippi River Basin Ag & Water Desk, an independent reporting collaborative.
A Jaguar electric vehicle charges its battery at a rural EV charging station in Abita Springs, La., on June 1, 2024. (Photo credit: Wes Muller/Louisiana Illuminator)

Two years after receiving federal funding to build electric vehicle charging stations across the state, Louisiana has yet to ask for bids from companies that might want the money. However, state transportation officials say there is a reason for their sluggish pace.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), plans to start the request-for-proposal process as soon as it identifies an appropriate contracting mechanism under state law to use the money, DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett said.

The Federal Highway Administration allocated $73.4 million to Louisiana under the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program in 2022. NEVI is a product of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Congress approved in 2021. It included billions for state transportation agencies to build a network of rapid chargers along major highways.

Louisianas initial response was on par with other states. DOTD submitted its NEVI deployment plan by the federal deadline of August 2022. However, while states such as Ohio, Pennsylvania and others now are disbursing the grant money or have already built some EV charging stations, Louisiana hasnt yet figured out how to spend it.

Theres no real reason to spend two-plus years figuring out how to get this money to grant recipients when other states are already opening up chargers, said Ryan McKinnon of the Charge Ahead Partnership, an EV charger lobby group. Lots of states will be opening up chargers pretty soon, and it sounds like Louisiana will be sitting on the sidelines.

McKinnon said Louisiana is one of 15 states that have still not asked for bids to use the NEVI grant money.

Some congressional Republicans and anti-union groups have directed their criticism at the Biden administration, claiming the delays are the result of mismanagement or of labor requirements within federal rules. Officials closest to the situation say the delays are largely because it is a new program that they want done correctly.

Mallet said the federal rules for the NEVI program dont fit cleanly within DOTDs usual contracting methods. DOTD often writes contracts for projects in which the agency owns and maintains the infrastructure, such as highways. In contrast, the EV charger grants will pay for the construction of infrastructure for which ownership and operation will be transferred from the state, in most cases, to a private entity, he said.

Although the Biden administration has aimed for a goal of building 500,000 charging stations by 2026, Mallet said the NEVI funds do not lapse, so there is no hard deadline to complete the projects.

The key is to do it right for the long term, Mallet said. No reason to rush it through.

Tyler Herrmann with Louisiana Clean Fuels, a nonprofit working with DOTD on the NEVI rollout, said smaller EV charger programs of the past saw build-outs at sites that werent very practical.

The chargers were often installed at public libraries or apartment complexes  places with no real interest or resources to maintain them. Without that routine maintenance, chargers would break and often stay that way for years.

The government learned from those programs and is now taking care to avoid making those same kinds of mistakes, Herrmann said.

It is a unique situation, Herrmann said of DOTDs efforts to administer the NEVI grants. The program is pretty much completely different from what the DOTD does normally.

In the meantime, Louisiana Clean Fuels has been working to build a workforce of technicians who can install and repair EV chargers and supply equipment.

Baton Rouge Community College just recently saw its first class of students graduate from a three-week course in which they learned some of the fundamentals required to become nationally certified Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment technicians.

Herrmann said about a dozen students completed the first course, which will soon be offered at other community colleges across the state.

Correction: Ryan McKinnon said Louisiana is one of 15 states that have still not asked for bids to use the NEVI grant money. A previous version of this article cited an incorrect number of states.

The post Louisiana lags on electric vehicle charging program, but DOTD sees no reason to rush appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
Louisiana public schools and colleges will be required to post an image of the Ten Commandments next year after a controversial bill was signed into law Wednesday.

Under H.B. 71 public classrooms starting from kindergarten to the collegiate level must have a poster of the Commandments up at the start of 2025.

Civil rights groups have already questioned the law that passed in Louisiana's Republican-controlled state legislature on May 28, contending it violates the separation of church and state in public buildings. The American Civil Liberties Union has threatened to sue.

PHOTO: Louisiana has become the first state to require that the Ten Commandments be displayed in every public-school classroom under a bill signed into law by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry, June 19, 2024. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images)

The bill was signed by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry, along with a package of others he said were designed to "expand faith in public schools."

"If you want to respect the rule of law, you've got to start from the original law-giver, which was Moses," Landry said at a news conference where he signed the bill.

MORE: Sarah Huckabee Sanders signs bill to create 'monument to the unborn' on Arkansas Capitol grounds

The bill's authors contend that the measure is not solely religious, but that it has historical significance. No other state currently has such a mandate for display of the Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments are described in the law's text as "foundational documents of our state and national government."

"History records that James Madison, the fourth President of the United States of America, stated that "(w)e have staked the whole future of our new nation ... upon the capacity of each of ourselves to govern ourselves according to the moral principles of the Ten Commandments," the text of the law read.

The displays, which will be paid for by private donations and not state dollars, will be "displayed on a poster or framed document," the law says. The legislation's text also calls for it to be printed in large, easily readable font.

The displays will also be paired with a four-paragraph "context statement" describing how the Ten Commandments "were a prominent part of American public education for almost three centuries."

The Louisiana ACLU, however, contended that the law's language is blatantly unconstitutional and said in a statement it plans to sue the state.

The ACLU cited the 1980, U.S. Supreme Court decision Stone v. Graham, which ruled that a similar law passed in Kentucky for its public school system violated the establishment clause of the U.S. Constitution.

PHOTO: Workers remove a monument bearing the Ten Commandments outside West Union High School, June 9, 2003, in West Union, Ohio. (Al Behrman/AP, FILES)

"The displays mandated by H.B. 71 will result in unconstitutional religious coercion of students, who are legally required to attend school and are thus a captive audience for school-sponsored religious messages," the Louisiana ACLU said in a statement.

"They will also send a chilling message to students and families who do not follow the states preferred version of the Ten Commandments that they do not belong, and are not welcome, in our public schools," the ACLU of Louisiana added.

MORE: Supreme Court says Maine cannot bar religious schools from state tuition program

Landry's education package also includes laws that would authorize the hiring of chaplains in schools, restrict teachers from mentioning sexual orientation or gender identity, and prevent schools from using a transgender student's preferred name or pronouns unless granted permission by parents.

Louisiana public schools to display Ten Commandments in classrooms after controversial law passes originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Republican Governor Jeff Landry, who appears hellbent on dismantling Louisianas education system, signed a bill on Wednesday mandating that the Ten Commandments be displayed in every public school classroom in the state.

The new legislation requires that a poster-sized display of the religious text be placed in all state-funded schools from kindergarten to university level. The commandments must be in a large, easily readable font and the poster no smaller than no smaller than 11 by 14 inches.

The laws text portrays the commandments as having a historical role and states that including the religious text in the education of our children is part of our state and national history, culture, and tradition. According the Associated Press, the display of the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence and the Northwest Ordinance is also authorized, but not required, by the new mandate.

Organizations opposing the mandate include the American Civil Liberties Union, the ACLU of Louisiana, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Freedom from Religion Foundation. In a joint statement, the groups vowed to file a lawsuit challenging the Louisiana law and said it violated the separation of church and state and is blatantly unconstitutional.

During a GOP fundraiser dinner in Nashville last week, Landry boasted about welcoming the legal fight. Im going home to sign a bill that places the Ten Commandments in public classrooms, he said during his keynote address. And I cant wait to be sued.

Since taking office as Louisiana governor, Landry  a Republican backed by former President Donald Trump  has sought to usher in a slew of conservative legislation. His predecessor, John Bel Edwards, who was the only Democratic governor in the Deep South, was unable to seek reelection due to consecutive term limits.

In March, bills helmed by the Republican governor were passed to lengthen time served for some prison sentences, to effectively eliminate parole for most jailed, to charge 17-year-olds as adults, and to allow methods for carrying out the death penalty beyond lethal injection. Then, in May, Landry signed a bill to reclassify drugs used in abortion as Schedule IV controlled dangerous substances, making it a crime to possess misoprostol and mifepristone without a prescription.

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By Daniel Trotta

(Reuters) - Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry on Wednesday signed into law a bill that makes the state the only one in the country to require displaying the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom.

The American Civil Liberties Union immediately announced it would sue to block the law, saying it violates the constitutional separation of church and state and a U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

Landry signed the bill along with a package of others he said were designed to "expand faith in public schools."

"If you want to respect the rule of law, you've got to start from the original law-giver, which was Moses," Landry said at the signing ceremony.

In the Christian and Jewish faiths, God revealed the Ten Commandments to Hebrew prophet Moses.

Other measures would authorize the hiring of chaplains in schools, restrict teachers from mentioning sexual orientation or gender identity, and prevent schools from using a transgender student's preferred name or pronouns unless granted permission by parents.

Landry also signed bills that would expand tutoring for underperforming students, help improve math skills, and impose fewer curriculum mandates on teachers.

Civil rights group ACLU and its Louisiana chapter along with Americans United for Separation of Church and State and the Freedom from Religion Foundation announced they would file a lawsuit to challenge the law that requires a specific text of the Ten Commandments be prominently displayed in all classrooms.

No other state has such a law, the groups said in a statement.

"Politicians have no business imposing their preferred religious doctrine on students and families in public schools," the statement said.

The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits government from the "establishment of religion," and in 1980 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Stone v. Graham that a Kentucky law on the posting of the Ten Commandments in school was unconstitutional.

(Reporting by Daniel Trotta; Editing by Sandra Maler)
Lubbock defense attorney David Guinn was sworn in Saturday as the 53rd president of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.

The group, which consists of 3,800 members, is the countrys largest and oldest statewide professional organization for criminal defense attorneys.

Guinn, a partner in the law firm of Hurley, Guinn, Singh & VonGonten, has represented clients in state and federal courts.

He will be the sixth Lubbock lawyer to serve as President of TCDLA. Previous Hub City attorneys to lead the group include: George Gilkerson, Clifford Brown, Bill Wishkaemper, Dan Hurley and Mark Snodgrass (2018).

The Lubbock legal community is strong and cooperative," Guinn said. "Just pulling your weight up makes for constant improvement in our culture. Humble service to others and the mission of TCLDA is something to be taken most seriously"

The Waco native graduated from Reicher Catholic High School in 1984. He earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from Baylor Law School in 1989.

He began his law career as an assistant district attorney in Johnson County.

He initially started his private practice in Crane before moving to Lubbock to serve under the Administrative Office of the U.S. Supreme Court for four years as a federal public defender.

As a federal public defender, Guinn's work on U.S. v. Emmerson secured the first lower federal court ruling in the country that held that the Second Amendment's right to bear arms was an individual right.

He returned to private practice in 1999.

A year later, he represented Bill Chrane, a doctor charged with wire fraud in federal court. The case went to trial and resulted in an acquittal.

In 2004, Guinn and his law partner Dan Hurley represented Eugene Fullwood, who faced 67 federal charges ranging from mail fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, and bank fraud. A jury acquitted him on all counts.

Guinn is the eldest son of Carol Perry and longtime Baylor Law constitutional law professor David M. Guinn, who died in 2022.

Guinn's brother, John, is the staff attorney for U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Manske.

Guinn has been married for 36 years to Wendy of Mexia. They have three sons - Randal, Taylor and Robert - and four grandchildren.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: David Guinn elected as president of Texas criminal defense attorneys' group
A Southern California woman whose luggage went missing after an American Airlines flight into Hollywood Burbank Airport says she later found her bag in a Hollywood homeless encampment.

Aunny Grace said that after her May 29 American Airlines flight in Dallas, Texas, was cancelled, she later flew into Burbank on a different flight without her luggage.

Five days later, my luggage shows up at Burbank on a Sunday night, she explained. On Monday morning, I get a call from a carrier company that says theyll have my luggage dropped off at my house.

Grace, though, had an Apple AirTag inside her bag and could see that it was not being delivered to her home. Using the GPS tracker, she went to the area of Sunset Boulevard and Western Avenue to find her luggage.

When I arrived, my bag had slowly made its way down to Santa Monica and Western and that is when I found my stuff, not my suitcase, but particles of my stuff in a homeless mans shopping cart, Grace said. You kind of get to a point where youre looking around the encampment and think, I dont even want my stuff back. I had toiletry bags that were dumped upside down. I had makeup bags. All the makeup was gone.

She said she has no idea how her bag ended up at the homeless encampment but told KTLAs Sandra Mitchell that she did see what appeared to be a lot of other stolen luggage in the area.

That day I saw dozens of suitcases, brand new suitcases, name brand suitcases strewn across Western and Sunset, Grace said. Rows and rows of suitcases, bicycles, baby strollers with airline tags on them everywhere.

Luggage seen near a Hollywood homeless encampment in this undated photo. (viewer pic)

Luggage seen near a Hollywood homeless encampment in this undated photo. (viewer pic)

Luggage seen near a Hollywood homeless encampment in this undated photo. (viewer pic)

Luggage seen near a Hollywood homeless encampment in this undated photo. (viewer pic)

Luggage set out at Hollywood Burbank Airport seen here in undated photo. (viewer pic)

Apple AirTag map tracing Aunny Graces lost luggage from American Airlines flight into Burbank to a Hollywood homeless encampment. (viewer pic)

Now shes demanding answers from American Airlines, filing a claim with the airline and reporting it to the police department. She has also hired an attorney.

Grace says the Burbank Airport area where the delayed luggage is stored is not secured and some bags are placed on the curb outside the terminal.

USC student, 19, arrested in fatal stabbing of burglary suspect identified

They showed me pictures of how American Airlines sets out luggage for people to pick up, but I dont put this on the homeless people, she said. I put this on the airline. American Airlines is responsible for my bag that they practically force you to check at the gate. This is on them.

While she was able to recover a few personal items from her luggage, she says the things she lost, including medical equipment related to her job, were worth $6,000.

So far, according to Grace, American Airlines has offered her $1,700 for her lost luggage.

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(KTLA)  A Southern California woman whose luggage went missing after an American Airlines flight into Hollywood Burbank Airport says she later found her bag in a Hollywood homeless encampment.

Aunny Grace said that after her May 29 American Airlines flight in Dallas, Texas, was canceled, she flew into Burbank on a different flight without her luggage.

Five days later, my luggage shows up at Burbank on a Sunday night, she explained. On Monday morning, I get a call from a carrier company that says theyll have my luggage dropped off at my house.

USC student, 19, arrested in fatal stabbing of burglary suspect identified

However, Grace had an Apple AirTag inside her bag and could see that it was not being delivered to her home. Using the GPS tracker, she went to the area of Sunset Boulevard and Western Avenue to find her luggage.

When I arrived, my bag had slowly made its way down to Santa Monica and Western, and that is when I found my stuff, not my suitcase, but particles of my stuff in a homeless mans shopping cart, Grace said. You kind of get to a point where youre looking around the encampment and think, I dont even want my stuff back. I had toiletry bags that were dumped upside down. I had makeup bags. All the makeup was gone.

She said she has no idea how her bag ended up at the homeless encampment but told Nexstars KTLA that she did see what appeared to be a lot of other stolen luggage in the area.

That day, I saw dozens of suitcases, brand new suitcases, name brand suitcases strewn across Western and Sunset, Grace said. Rows and rows of suitcases, bicycles, baby strollers with airline tags on them everywhere.

Now shes demanding answers from American Airlines, filing a claim with the airline and reporting it to the police department. She has also hired an attorney.

Public advised to stay out of these Los Angeles County beaches

Grace said the Burbank Airport area where the delayed luggage is stored is not secured and some bags are placed on the curb outside the terminal.

They showed me pictures of how American Airlines sets out luggage for people to pick up, but I dont put this on the homeless people, she said. I put this on the airline. American Airlines is responsible for my bag that they practically force you to check at the gate. This is on them.

While she recovered a few personal items from her luggage, she says the things she lost, including medical equipment related to her job, were worth $6,000.

So far, according to Grace, American Airlines has offered her $1,700 for her lost luggage.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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WELLINGTON/CANBERRA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand and Australian citizens will find it easier to explore the wonders of China thanks to a recent development that has significantly simplified travel requirements.

During his just-concluded visits to New Zealand and Australia, Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced that China will include these two Oceanian nations in its list of unilateral visa-free countries. This means that New Zealand and Australian passport holders will be able to enter China without a visa for business, tourism, visiting relatives and friends, and transit, for up to 15 days.

The effect of this decision was immediate. Just half an hour after the announcement, the number of people in Australia searching for China-related keywords on the international tourism platform Trip.com surged by over 80 percent compared to the previous day.

Visas have long been considered a pain point for travel due to their often complex procedures and added costs. Removing the barrier is a welcome change for the travel industry, Anthony Spark, director of South Australia-based travel agency Spark Travel, told Xinhua.

Echoing Spark, other tourism experts and industry representatives enthusiastically embrace the simplified travel requirements, saying it will enhance tourism and people-to-people exchanges.

David Su, a long-time tourism practitioner living in New Zealand, believes the decision will facilitate travel, while also creating a new growth opportunity for outbound tourism from New Zealand, making it easier for New Zealanders to enter China or transit through.

New Zealand anticipates a tourism boost to China from October this year, Li Ruiqin, managing director of China Travel Service in New Zealand, said.

New Zealand's leading tourism companies and agencies have been exploring the Chinese market since early this year, Li said.

"They are stunned by delicious and diversified Chinese food, the efficiency of high-speed trains and the boom of electric cars in the cities during their trip to China," he said.

For Australians, there is no doubt that the decision will encourage them to consider China for their next trip, Spark said.

"China is a very accessible country for Australians with many great tour packages, including cruise and land options, available to book. I would also expect people with extended family or friends in China to now look favorably towards China for their next holiday," he said.

During Premier Li's meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday, the two sides agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to multi-entry visas of up to three to five years' duration for tourism, business and visiting family members.

Songshan Huang, a professor of tourism at Edith Cowan University in Western Australia, said: "Accordingly, we will also expect a higher volume of reversed tourist flow from China to Australia."

During talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on June 13, Premier Li also expressed hope for New Zealand to facilitate Chinese citizens' travel to the country.

China was New Zealand's second-largest visitor market after Australia before the pandemic. It remained a critically important visitor market for New Zealand in the past 12 months, said Gregg Wafelbakker, general manager Asia at Tourism New Zealand.

The latest visa policy is a sincere gesture that China would like to further its people-to-people exchanges with other countries, Huang said.

Bilateral tourism exchanges are all about "getting to know each other and forging personal relationships, which then lead to securing further connections such as business and cultural exchanges. Friendly encounters are where it all begins and where the benefits abound," said professor Chris Ryan from the School of Management and Marketing Operations at the University of Waikato in New Zealand. 
Aftermath of Russian attack on a research institute in the city of Lviv. Photo: Andrii Sadovyi on Telegram

An administrative building belonging to the State Scientific-Research Control Institute of Veterinary Medicinal Products and Feed Additives (SCIVP) in Lviv has sustained severe damage over an area of 800 sq.m in a Russian Shahed UAV attack on the night of 18-19 June.

Source: Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi on Telegram; Maksym Kozytskyi, Head of Lviv Oblast Military Administration

Aftermath of Russian attack on a research institute in the city of Lviv

Photo: Andrii Sadovyi on Telegram

Quote: "We have recorded more damage caused by the overnight Shahed attack. A research institute in Lviv."

Details: Maksym Kozytskyi later added that the Russian attack had damaged an administrative building belonging to the SCIVP.

Kozytskyi said the UAV wreckage destroyed the roof, walls and ceilings of the first floor over an area of about 800 sq. m.

Background: Two men aged 47 and 70 were injured in a Russian drone strike targeting the settlement of Malekhiv, Lviv hromada. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories  ed.]

This news has been updated since publication.

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Im angry that we have to do this again, Michigan pastor says at anti-gun violence event

The Rev. Barry Randolph and other clergy rallied in Southfield on Tuesday to call for an end to gun violence. | Ken Coleman

After a mass shooting at a splash pad in Oakland County over the weekend, metro Detroit faith leaders gathered on Tuesday in Southfield to call for an end to gun violence.

At the Brooklands Plaza Splash Pad in Rochester Hills on Saturday, a gunman opened fire on children and parents, leaving nine people wounded, including two children.

The news conference was held at St. Davids Episcopal Church and the group announced a series of gun buybacks scheduled this summer. The buybacks will feature on-site destruction of donated firearms.

One of the clergy members at the news conference was the Rev. Barry Randolph, pastor of Church of the Messiah of Detroit. His congregation has led anti-violence rallies and marches for several years.

Im angry that we have to do this again. Again, Randolph said.

Another organizer was the Rev. Chris Yaw.

Weve found that its difficult to collect from municipalities and have them destroyed, Yaw said. We found its difficult to get them actually destroyed.

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The post Im angry that we have to do this again, Michigan pastor says at anti-gun violence event appeared first on Michigan Advance.
Developer logos stretch across fences that have for months impeded foot traffic, forcing people to walk into traffic lanes of Cherry Street to pass by construction sites.

The Macon-Bibb County government is looking to change that by adding some muscle to its Complete Streets Policy and permitting processes that require private developers and public departments to include safe detours for pedestrians during construction projects that impede sidewalks and other public rights-of-way.

It is an ordinance that we have as a county, county traffic safety manager Weston Stroud said Tuesday during a meeting of the Macon-Bibb County Pedestrian Safety Review Board. We just dont have any teeth to it.

Stroud said developers know they are required to purchase parking spaces if they occupy them for construction, but when it comes to our sidewalks, they dont typically associate a value or cost to it, or even requiring permission, which we do.

The county engineering office currently issues such permits for free, which Stroud said is a missed opportunity, missed income that we could generate.

Stroud proposes charging developers for occupying a sidewalk and doubling the fee for ones that do it without county approval.

We can actually have teeth to it instead of just saying, Hey, you should have gotten a permit, we can actually charge them, you know, double the fee, like they would in planning and zoning if you put up a fence without permission, Stroud said.

At least two developments downtown have for months impeded sidewalks. The Neel Lofts, a four-story building that will include offices, business space and 95 luxury loft apartments at 468 Cherry Street, is being built by Piedmont Construction. The developer of the $25 million project, Robbo Hatcher of H2 Capital Inc., benefits from a tax incentive granted to it by the Macon-Bibb Urban Development Authority.

Piedmont Construction recently moved its fence back to leave space on the sidewalk for pedestrians to traverse. For months, the company had the sidewalk and several parking spaces enclosed by a fence.

Further up Cherry Street at Cotton Avenue, Sheridan Construction is building the 9,000-square-foot Otis Redding Center across from Hotel 45. A cloth-lined fence occupied a stretch of the sidewalk at the intersection on Tuesday, forcing pedestrians to walk in the road to circumvent the work site.

Nearly two weeks earlier, a man walking there was hit by a car and taken to the hospital, according to news reports.

Stroud said the engineering department also is looking at rolling dumpsters that sometimes has people walking in the middle of the street on the west side, for example.

We have to redo our whole permitting process engineer for the county, he said. I think its going to be really helpful for us as we think about pedestrian safety going forward.
(Bloomberg) -- Emmanuel Macron said theres a silent majority opposed to disorder stemming from the extremes, the French president was quoted as saying on Tuesday by Agence France-Presse. Thats despite the fact that his party has been trailing in the polls ahead of the legislative election that kicks off on June 30.

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Marine Le Pens far-right National Rally is expected to get 32.7% of the vote, according to Bloombergs poll of polls, with the left-wing New Popular Front at 26.3%. Macrons Renaissance, along with its allies, are trailing in third.

The phrase was popularized by President Richard Nixon in 1969 when he called on the support of the great silent majority in the US as the Vietnam war entered a critical phase.

Macron was speaking while on a visit in the West of France to commemorate Charles de Gaulles June 18, 1940, call to arms, AFP said.

Macron added that the country would have been in chaos if he hadnt called for the election after his party got trounced by the National Rally in the June 9 European elections.

Without a dissolution, there would have been chaos, he said. The decision I took was the most difficult, the most serious, but the most responsible.

Macron added that he was hurt by his partys defeat in the EU-wide vote and conceded having many faults.

The prospect of the National Rally forming the next government sent shock waves through the countrys political establishment and rattled investors who sold off French assets. The two-round parliamentary election in France will conclude on July 7.

(Adds polling numbers in the second paragraph.)

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An Alabama man pleaded guilty this week for threatening phone calls against Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat.

The U.S. Department of Justice charged Arthur Ray Hanson II for the phone calls he made a week before a special grand purpose jury indicted former President Donald Trump and 18 others in the Georgia election interference case.

On Tuesday, he pleaded guilty to the charges.

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I made a stupid phone call. Im not a violent person, Hanson said in federal court, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

The DOJ accused Hanson of calling Fulton County governments customer service line and leaving voicemails for Willis and Labat.

In a message for Willis, Hanson is alleged to have warned her to watch out, that she wont always have people around who can protect her, that there would be moments when she would be vulnerable. When you charge Trump on that fourth indictment, anytime youre alone, be looking over your shoulder, he said, among other things, according to the indictment.

In the message for Labat, Hanson threatened the sheriff over the idea of taking a mugshot, the indictment says. Among his alleged comments are: If you take a mug shot of the president and youre the reason it happened, some bad (expletive)s gonna happen to you, and You gonna get (expletive) up you keep (expletive) with my president.

Hanson told the court on Tuesday that he was angered by the Georgia election indictment and made the phone calls hoping authorities would back down.

I didnt knowingly know I was threatening anybody, he told the judge. To me, it was a warning.

Hanson will be sentenced in federal court at a later date.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Smoke caused by an Israeli airstrike rises in Rachaya Al-Fakhar, Lebanon, on June 18, 2024. One civilian was killed, and nine others were injured on Tuesday in an Israeli airstrike on a southern Lebanese village, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. They added that Israeli warplanes raided Tuesday four towns and villages in the border area in southern Lebanon, destroying and damaging several houses. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua)

BEIRUT, June 18 (Xinhua) -- One civilian was killed, and nine others were injured on Tuesday in an Israeli airstrike on a southern Lebanese village, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua.

The sources, who spoke anonymously, said that Israeli drones launched six missiles at two cars, killing one civilian in the first car and wounding eight others in the second car and another riding a bicycle in the village of al-Borgholiye, north of the Tyre city.

They added that Israeli warplanes raided Tuesday four towns and villages in the border area in southern Lebanon, destroying and damaging several houses.

Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces posted aerial surveillance footage showing the bombardment of two cars on social media platform X, saying its aircraft attacked "UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) launch teams" of Hezbollah earlier in the day.

During the past few days, border villages and towns in southern Lebanon witnessed an unprecedented escalation between Hezbollah and the Israeli army.

The military sources said that the Lebanese army positions monitored the launch of dozens of surface-to-surface missiles in the afternoon and several drones from southern Lebanon to northern Israel.

Also on Tuesday, a Hezbollah source confirmed to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed TV, a pan-Arab news outlet, that Hezbollah will not retreat beyond the Litani River, which the source said is an Israeli condition to reach an agreement to end the confrontations.

"Stopping the war in the Gaza Strip alone would affect the Lebanon front, and all parties' efforts (to end the escalation) out of the framework are in vain," the source added, referring to the visit of U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein to Beirut on Tuesday aimed at de-escalating tensions on the Israel-Lebanon border.

Tensions along the border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. 

Smoke caused by an Israeli airstrike rises in Aita al-Shaab, Lebanon, on June 18, 2024. One civilian was killed, and nine others were injured on Tuesday in an Israeli airstrike on a southern Lebanese village, Lebanese military sources told Xinhua. They added that Israeli warplanes raided Tuesday four towns and villages in the border area in southern Lebanon, destroying and damaging several houses. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua)
MADERA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Exciting news for the Madera Community Hospital as it receives its first $15 million loan fund from the Distressed Hospital Loan Program.

In efforts to achieve long-term financial stability, Maderas hospital finds hope of getting back on its feet after filing for bankruptcy in March 2023.

This is the first installment of a $57 million loan approved in April 2024.

This has been a long process and my commitment to the Madera community and to this region from day one has been to reopen the hospital, said Esmeralda Soria, California State Representative.

The DHLP, jointly run by the California Health Facilities Financing Authority and the Department of Health Care Access and Information has loaned about $300 million to 16 California hospitals.

Madera has been largely impacted by the hospital closure as well as neighboring counties.

This is not just about Madera, this is about our entire region having access to not just quality healthcare but in an equitable way for our disadvantaged communities and working families, Soria said.

Although there is a long road ahead until the hospital reopens, Soria says the community is optimistic about the future.

Theres a lot of things that need to happen between now and the day that were able to open the doors of this hospital, but it is a positive sign, and just you know, encouraging.

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Donald Trump has hailed those locked up for Jan. 6 as patriots, hostages, and even warriors.

He may want to add militiamen to that list.

Jake Lang is a defendant in a long-delayed trial for his participation in the Jan. 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol. Hes accused of multiple violent crimes, with charges ranging from an act of physical violence in a Capitol building to assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon, inflicting bodily injury  as well as obstruction of an official proceeding and civil disorder.

Lang has used his extended pretrial detention to raise his MAGA-world celebrity  as well as a ton of cash. A GiveSendGo fund he controls has raked in more than $500,000, ostensibly for the legal defense of January 6 Patriots. (The monies raised through the site and by check go to Lang, personally.) He maintains his innocence, and his X.com handle identifies him as a January 6 Political Prisoner.

Lang is now attempting to launch a nationwide militia network from his jail cell in Brooklyn. The group debuted in early June with incendiary branding  as the North American Patriot and Liberty Militia, or NAPALM USA. (The formation of the group was first reported on by Media Matters.)

As a paramilitary force, Langs militia may be more intimidating in high concept than in physical reality. Its launch has been dogged by inflated membership rolls; supposed group leaders saying they have nothing to do with the militia; a canceled Instagram account; and by a militia name so cringe that it has already been discarded.

Yet in a phone interview from jail, Lang tells Rolling Stone that hes on a divine and patriotic mission: God put into my heart to get the ball rolling, he says, adding that by starting a new militia hes just following an order given to us by our founding fathers.

Lang disputed that the militias launch has been a mess. I dont believe its been sloppy, he says. From the basement of a prison cell, which Ive been held in most of three years, weve had a beautiful launch. Lang also sought to knock down right-wing rumors that hes working with the feds, or that his militia organizing is a trap for would-be extremists. My integrity stands before God, he says. Why would they let a federal asset be tortured in solitary confinement for years in end?

The MAGA-oriented militia presents itself like a shinier version of the Oath Keepers. Its mission statement declares (with idiosyncratic punctuation): We The People, to Uphold The Constitution: will Protect America from Any Enemy. Foreign or Domestic. The bylaws call on members to be proficient in firearms and prepared to be activated in times of Constitutional emergency, tyrannical oppression, or when called upon to assist U.S. Government authorities in the defense of the nation.

The original militia logo featured a mushroom-cloud fireball. (Napalm is a sticky flaming gel that was frequently airdropped against enemy troops during World War II and the Vietnam War.)

NAPALM USA touted among its National Leadership Council a whos who of the conspiratorial, loudmouth, and self-promoting right  with Lang as national chairman, the virulently antisemitic shock jock Stew Peters as communications chief, and another Rumble streamer Peter Santilli (best known as a bit player from the Bundy-family federal faceoffs) as strategic operations director.

However, the militia homepage also listed a bevy of other right-wing celebs who soon disappeared from the site, including Silk (of Diamond and Silk fame), who was named as national recruiting coordinator; Florida GOP congressional candidate Anthony Sabatini, who was listed as general counsel; as well as Richard Mack founder of the Constitutional Sheriff movement, which alleges county sheriffs can override federal and state law in their jurisdictions. Of the three, only Mack responded to Rolling Stones questions, insisting of his claimed NAPALM affiliation: It was a mistake! I had them remove my photo and my name.

Even Peters does not seem to have his heart in the fight. The supposed NAPALM communications chief gave a response to questions about the militia through his own media rep, who texted a bland statement: Stew is an ardent supporter of the J6 political prisoners and was happy to lend a hand when asked to do so. When Rolling Stone asked if Peters was actively involved (and noted it was odd for Peters to be outsourcing his message-man duties to a deputy), the rep responded only with a laughing emoji.

Jon Lewis is a research fellow at the Program on Extremism at George Washington University. He does not judge Langs militia as a clear-and-present danger, at least for now. I think Jake is a grifter whos trying to appeal to the absolute lowest common denominator, he says. This is the guy who has somehow stayed relevant by claiming hes like the OG political prisoner. (In an interview with Rolling Stone, Santilli defended Lang against Lewis allegation. Jake has not grifted. Hes done the most selfless work of any other January 6 patriot.)

Lewis adds that theres lots of wishcasting in Langs militia launch. I think he would love it to be a real thing, he says. I just think Lang doesnt have the wherewithal to become the next Stewart Rhodes from his jail cell. (Rhodes was the founder of the Oath Keepers, now imprisoned for seditious conspiracy for his role in the events of Jan. 6 and beyond.)

Lewis emphasizes, however, that Langs attempt to mobilize a militia should be taken seriously  as emblematic of a lurking danger from the MAGA far right. Its just the latest in this string of warning signs that this movement is ready and is primed for violence.

Langs militia brags of 20,000+ members including active sheriffs, former military, farmers & pastors! But extremism experts consulted by WIRED suggest that figure may be inflated by nearly a factor of ten. The militias branding also didnt seem to, ahem, catch fire with the masses. At the end of last week, Lang ditched the NAPALM name, renaming the group the America First Constitutional Militia, or AFCM.

Lang explained to Rolling Stone that while he liked the marketing effect of NAPALM, he was ultimately convinced the rebranding would create broader, mass appeal and make the militia look less aggressive he said, because we are a defensive organization. As the rebrand was announced, Patrick Byrne, the onetime Overstock.com CEO turned far-right gadfly, filmed a bizarre promo for the group while wearing a leather jacket, and speaking from a dark bridge, in an unnamed city in Europe.

Langs militia is organizing through a series of 50 state-based Telegram channels. It promises that new recruits will be contacted and vetted promptly. This reporter joined several of the channels but did not hear back from anyone. The only messaging in the channels has been a note about the rebrand, which concluded with three eagle emojis and the slogan: Freedom isnt Free.

Neither Lang, nor his deputy Santilli, would give Rolling Stone a firm count of how many folks are actually engaged in the militia. When pressed, Lang said the follower counts of the Telegram channel were an accurate metric for judging the size of the operation.

Rolling Stone totaled up the membership of the Telegram channels last week  summing to about 13,000. Thats a far cry from the 20,000 or more claimed on the militia homepage. But even these Telegram membership numbers look peculiar.

The militia website provides signup links organized, alphabetically, by state. And the Telegram group membership for states swells the deeper you get in the alphabet. To wit: From Alabama to Montana the state militia groups have a very narrow band of followers  ranging from 141 to 182  despite massive differences in population sizes between e.g. Alaska and California.

Moving down the alphabet, the membership range starts to jump to between 400 and 600 members. Closing out the alphabet, Vermont and a trio of W states  Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming  all have more than 500 members.

Such fake-it-til-you make it energy is still capable of posing a danger to democracy, of course. Lewis, the extremism expert, says he doesnt expect Langs militia to become the literal flag bearers for the next January 6. But he does describe the effort as a symptom of the disease.

We should be very concerned about how willing a significant subset of the population is to embrace the idea of political violence, he says, against the enemy who has been positioned as subhuman, and as somehow less than this loyal army of patriots who are going to fight and die for this country.

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A 35-year-old man was arrested on Monday after stealing a vehicle, which later caught on fire.

Fred Sepulveda-Sanchez, 35, was arrested by the Clinton County Sheriffs Department. On June 17, 2024, at approximately 11:41 a.m., the Clinton County Sheriffs Office received notification from the Dubuque Police Department of a motor vehicle being stolen from their city, according to a Tuesday release.

Fred Sepulveda-Sanchez (Clinton County Jail)

The stolen vehicle was observed travelling south from Dubuque. A Clinton County Deputy located the stolen motor vehicle traveling eastbound in the 3500 block of 220th Street at approximately 12:10 p.m.

The deputy attempted to make a traffic stop on the stolen vehicle; however, the vehicle refused to stop when the deputy activated his emergency lights and siren, police said. The deputy pursued the stolen vehicle for approximately three miles, until which time the stolen vehicle caught fire.

The stolen car engulfed in flames on June 17, 2024 (courtesy of Clinton County Sheriffs Office).

As the vehicle continued to elude the deputies attempts to stop it, the fire caused the vehicle to become disabled. The deputy was able to take the driver into custody without incident, after the vehicle came to rest near the intersection of 200th Street and 390th Avenue.

The stolen vehicle, shortly after the driver was taken into custody, became fully engulfed in flames. There were no injuries as a result of the motor vehicle pursuit or the vehicle fire, the release said. The Low Moor Fire Department, Goose Lake Fire Department, and Andover Fire Department responded to the scene to extinguish the fire.

Sepulveda-Sanchez was transported to the Clinton County Jail, where he was charged with the following:

 Theft 2nd Degree

 Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

 Speeding

 Failure to Obey Stop Sign

 Passing Contrary to Highway Markings

 No Valid Drivers License

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CHICAGO  A man was charged following a sexual assault last month in Belmont Cragin.

David Vega, 32, was arrested Thursday afternoon in the 4400 block of West Jackson. He has been charged with two counts of criminal sexual assault.

On May 28, a female was forcibly picked up and moved to a gangway in the 2900 block of North Mango. Police allege Vega told her if she continued to yell, he would kill her.

Vega allegedly took the females pants off and ripped her undergarment. He then fled the scene southbound down the alley of Mango to George Street. CPD said he then fled eastbound to Central Avenue then westbound back to Parkside Avenue.

7-year-old boy dies after shooting on Near West Side

Vega has been charged in the past with domestic battery and battery, according to arrest records.

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A man has pleaded not guilty to murder in connection with the stabbing death of a man whose body was found outside a motorhome in Rosamond.

Raul Rodriguez, 42, pleaded not guilty earlier this month and is being held without bail, according to court records and sheriffs officials. Hes due back in court June 28.

Man with babys face tattooed on head wanted in fraud investigation

Deputies were called around 6 a.m. on May 31 to a report of a stabbing in the area of Harvell Place and Sierra Highway, according to sheriffs officials. They found the body of Gary Martin, 48, in a dirt lot by a motorhome.

Detectives identified Rodriguez as the suspect and arrested him June 12 on Rosamond Boulevard, officials said. Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriffs office at 661-861-3110 or Secret Witness at 661-322-4040.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
PERRY COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  State Police say a vehicle crashed into a historic Perry County government building earlier this month.

According to Pennsylvania State Police at Newport, on June 7, at Carlisle and Main Streets in Bloomfield, a driver crashed into the Rhinesmith Building and fled the scene at 1:52 a.m.

State Police apprehended the driver, 46-year-old Wesley R. Gemmill of Landisburg, and say he was arrested for driving under the influence and other traffic-related offenses.

According to the report, Gemmill was traveling north on Carlisle St. and negotiated a left turn onto West Main St. when his car struck the curb, two road signs, and the porch of the Rhinesmith Building. Gemmill then backed off the porch and fled the site, traveling west on West Main. He eventually left his vehicle and fled on foot until he was located by authorities, according to State Police.

According to the historical marker database, the Rhinesmith Building was built in 1826 and originally housed the Perry House Tavern. The name comes from the Rhinesmith family, who originally operated the building as a hotel from 1895 to 1945.

The building has since housed the first Perry County State Police office, a meat market, a telephone exchange, apartments, law offices, and a dress factory. Perry County purchased the building in 1973, and it has served as a Perry County government office since 1986.

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BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday voiced firm opposition to the United Kingdom's decision to sanction five Chinese firms over the so-called Russian involvement.

Despite China's representations and the sound development momentum of China-UK economic and trade relations, the UK insisted on listing Chinese companies in the latest round of sanctions against Russia. Such move will have a negative impact on the bilateral economic and trade relations, said a spokesperson of China's Ministry of Commerce in response to a media query.

UK's unilateral sanctions have no basis in international law and no mandate from the United Nations, which is a typical act of "long-arm jurisdiction," said the spokesperson.

China urges the British side to bear in mind the overall interests of bilateral economic and trade cooperation, immediately correct its erroneous practices, and unconditionally cease the inclusion of Chinese enterprises on its sanctions list, said the spokesperson.

China will safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises resolutely, the spokesperson said. 
Man critically injured after getting shot at Mexican restaurant

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man is in critical condition after being shot on Tuesday night at Margaritas, a Mexican restaurant in Raleigh, police say.

At 6:28 p.m., officers responded to 3850 Austin Peay Highway.

MPD: Trio connected to stolen Chevy used in attempted car break-ins

Officers located a male victim and he was taken to Regional One Hospital in critical condition.

Aftermath of shooting at Margaritas.

Aftermath of shooting at Margaritas.

Aftermath of shooting at Margaritas.

Aftermath of shooting at Margaritas.

Aftermath of shooting at Margaritas.

A second individual is being treated for an unrelated medical condition.

Police say the suspect is a Black woman who fled in a van.

If you have any information regarding this incident, call Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

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Man dies after being found stabbed in apartment hallway

DENVER (KDVR)  A man who was found unconscious and suffering from a stab wound in an apartment hallway Monday afternoon died, according to the Adams County Sheriffs Office.

The incident happened at an apartment building in the 1700 block of Coronado Parkway.

An involved party in the stabbing was identified and released while an investigation can be conducted, sheriffs deputies said.

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Deputies were called to the scene around 4:35 p.m. on Monday and found an adult man lying on the ground in the main hallway. He was unconscious but was breathing when paramedics arrived.

He was taken to a local hospital and later pronounced dead.

The involved party was in an adjacent apartment and willingly spoke to deputies and detectives about the incident, according to the sheriffs office.

Multiple other interviews were conducted, the sheriffs office said. The investigation was ongoing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A man suffered non-life-threatening injuries after falling off the border wall late Tuesday night, June 18, in Sunland Park, according to the Sunland Park Fire Department.

The Fire Department says they responded just before midnight to a man who fell off the border wall at the end of Anapra Road near Posey Road.

The Fire Department says the man suffered lower extremity injuries to both legs.

The man was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and is described to be in his 20s.

No further information has been released.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Driver stabbed to death after crash at South Bay intersection

Driver stabbed to death after crash at South Bay intersection

Detectives are investigating after a man was found stabbed to death after an apparent crash at a busy South Bay intersection Tuesday.

Witnesses said the suspect allegedly rear-ended the victims SUV near 111th Street and Larch Avenue in the Lennox neighborhood at around 12:24 p.m.

The two drivers reportedly exited their vehicles and thats when the victim was stabbed to death.

Los Angeles County deputies responding to the scene found an adult male victim with stab wounds on his upper torso lying on the ground.

The man was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The suspect had fled the area before authorities could arrive. Further details leading up to the violent encounter remain unclear.

A large Infiniti SUV was seen being towed away from the intersection by authorities.

Authorities investigate after a man was found stabbed to death at a busy Lennox intersection on June 18, 2024. (RMG)

Authorities investigate after a man was found stabbed to death at a busy Lennox intersection on June 18, 2024. (RMG)

Clothing and other debris near the scene of a fatal stabbing at a Lennox intersection on June 18, 2024. (RMG)

A large SUV was cordoned off at the scene after a man was found stabbed to death at a busy Lennox intersection on June 18, 2024. (RMG)

A suspect remains at large after a man was found stabbed to death in the Lennox neighborhood on June 18, 2024. (Citizen)

A large portion of the street was cordoned off after a man was found stabbed to death in the Lennox neighborhood on June 18, 2024. (Citizen)

Authorities investigate after a man was found stabbed to death in the Lennox neighborhood on June 18, 2024. (KTLA)

Authorities investigate after a man was found stabbed to death in the Lennox neighborhood on June 18, 2024. (KTLA)

A suspect remains at large after a man was found stabbed to death in the Lennox neighborhood on June 18, 2024. (Citizen)

A large SUV was cordoned off and later towed after a man was found stabbed to death at a busy Lennox intersection on June 18, 2024. (RMG)

A suspect remains at large after a man was found stabbed to death in the Lennox neighborhood on June 18, 2024. (Citizen)

Citizen video showed a large portion of the street was cordoned off as deputies investigated the scene.

Detectives were also seen investigating another location near Imperial Highway and Hawthorne Boulevard in Hawthorne that may be related to the incident.

The deadly stabbing remains under investigation. The suspect remains at large.

Anyone with information is asked to call the LASDs Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.

Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A man was sentenced to eight years in prison after pleading no contest to voluntary manslaughter in connection with a deadly shooting on Valentines Day 2019.

Antonio Maldonado Jr., 26, was sentenced Tuesday, court records show. He pleaded no contest in April in exchange for the dismissal of charges including murder and attempted murder.

Maldonado was one of two brothers involved in an argument with a group at an apartment complex near Haley and Flower streets on Feb. 14, 2019. A shootout erupted and bystander Manuel Figueroa, 57, was hit, authorities said. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Elias Maldonado, 18 at the time of the shooting, was also involved, authorities said. He was confirmed dead almost a year later, according to U.S. Marshals.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  One person was injured Wednesday after a traffic collision in the Jamacha-Lomita neighborhood, authorities said.

According to the San Diego Police Department, an 18-year-old man was driving a Toyota Camry southbound in the 700 block of Cardiff Street about 15 minutes after midnight.

At that same time, police said another man, 20, was driving a Tesla Model Y eastbound in the 8400 block of San Vicente Street.

Family files wrongful death lawsuit after daughter killed while paddle boarding

As explained by police, the Toyota driver failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection with San Vicente Street, colliding with the driver side of the Tesla in the intersection.

The driver of the Toyota sustained a fractured hip and laceration to his head. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Police said his injuries are non-life threatening.

Meanwhile, the driver of the Tesla and his passengers were not harmed during the collision.

Traffic Division officers responded and are handling the investigation. Alcohol was determined to not be a factor in the collision, police said.

Anyone with information related to the crash 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.
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC)  A Richmond, Virginia, man who was wrongfully convicted of abduction, rape, and murder for the death of a 3-year-old in 1975 was exonerated on Tuesday after his innocence was proven through modern forensics nearly five decades later.

In 1976, Marvin Grimm of Richmond was convicted in the Richmond City Circuit Court of the abduction, first-degree murder and rape of a 3-year-old child, who was found dead in the James River on Nov. 26, 1975. He was sentenced to life in prison and served 44 of those years before being released on parole in 2019.

According to a press release from the Office of the Attorney General of Virginia, on Tuesday, June 18, Grimm was issued a writ of actual innocence  meaning he has been exonerated. This decision was made based on modern DNA and toxicology evidence presented by Grimm.

Accordingly, Grimms petition presents material evidence that, when considered together and against the whole of the trial courts evidence, is sufficient for this Court to reasonably believe that no rational fact finder would have convicted him, the order reads. Indeed, when considered as a whole, there remains no inculpatory evidence by which Grimm would be found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The order from the courts details the timeline of the murder, Grimms arrest and eventual conviction and what has come to light since that day nearly fifty years ago.

What happened in 1975 and how was Grimm convicted?

According to the order, the child  called C.H in all references  disappeared into the woods near his familys apartment in Richmond the afternoon of Nov. 22, 1975.

Four days later, he was found face-up in the James River, fully clothed and with his arms folded across his chest.

Grimm, a neighbor, was soon identified as a suspect due to reported tension between himself and C.H.s family. Following a nine-hour shift at work on Dec. 16, Grimm was arrested and taken in for questioning.

According to the order, after nine hours of interrogation, Grimm confessed to the abduction and murder of C.H., as well as his forced sexual assault. He provided a timeline of events that began with C.H.s disappearance and ended at the James River  however, some details did not align and certain facts relevant to the case were not mentioned by Grimm.

Grimm would later agree to plead guilty to murder, sodomy by force and abduction with intent to defile, in exchange for the Commonwealth not seeking the death penalty.

Importantly, Virginia law did not permit the death penalty for this type of offense at that

time, the order reads.

Alongside this confession, the forensic evidence used to convict Grimm included:

Hairs found in his coat, his car and on a childs sock found inside of the car

A stained towel found in his car

Swabs taken from C.H.s throat and mouth

What did modern forensics uncover about the evidence?

According to the order, at the time of the court proceedings, the hairs found were compared to hairs of C.H.s. Three in Grimms car and all of those on Grimms coat were reportedly found to match. Additionally, while the sock appeared to be smaller than the sock from C.H., the hair found inside was found to match C.H.s.

In 2011 and 2023, all hairs thought to be C.H.s were tested via DNA analysis and all were found to not belong to him.

The swabs taken from C.H.s mouth, as well as the stain on the towel, were thought at the time of the court proceedings to be seminal fluid and to belong to Grimm, seemingly coinciding with his confession that he sexually assaulted the child.

According to the order, in 2002, Grimm was eliminated as the source of any of the genetic material found in C.H.s mouth. Later, in 2017, a final test was done to determine whether or not seminal fluid was ever in C.H.s mouth to begin with. Ultimately, this testing determined there was never sperm in C.Hs mouth.

In 2003, the same was found for the towel  according to the order, there was never seminal fluid on the towel. Additionally, DNA analysis revealed that, not only was Grimms DNA not on the towel, but there was no human DNA on it at all.

In his petition, Grimm also provided research on false confessions, presenting that his confession had been coerced by police into admitting guilt. Additionally, the order outlines several issues with Grimms confession which discredit its authenticity.

According to the order, the court chose not to consider these scholarly articles because, with all of the physical evidence proven false, the confession itself  true or false  would not have been enough to prove Grimm guilty in the first place.

Indeed, the Commonwealth is left with a body and a man claiming responsibility without accurately describing any of this cases facts, the order reads. Therefore, the confession by itself would not provide an adequate basis for a reasonable fact-finder to convict. Accordingly,

when Grimms confession is considered with all of the other evidence in the current record, [it] prove[s] that no rational trier of fact would have found proof of guilt . . . beyond a reasonable doubt.

Based on all of these findings presented in Grimms petition, the court decided to grant him his writ of actual innocence.

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MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  A man was sentenced on Monday to 10 years in state prison for trafficking in methamphetamine, according to the State Attorney First Judicial Circuit of Florida.

The Honorable John Brown imposed the sentence once a jury found the man guilty.

Michael Dwayne Jenkins, 45, was sentenced on Monday, June 17, about 16 months after his arrest.

This council and administration is a circus: Prine supporter attends Mobile City Council meeting dressed as clown

Okaloosa County Sheriffs deputies arrested Jenkins on Feb. 4, 2023, after he was reportedly found to be concealing about 143 grams of methamphetamine.

According to a news release from the State Attorney, the Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement were each instrumental in closing the case.

State Attorney Ginger Bowden Madden and Assistant State Attorney Noah Blaine Losco prosecuted the case on behalf of the state.

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Editors note: This story has been updated to reflect that the man was shot dead during a dispute after the sheriffs office provided updated information on the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A 21-year-old man was shot dead during a dispute Tuesday near Lake Wales, according to the Polk County Sheriffs Office.

The shooting happened in the area of West Northside Drive, which is just outside of Lake Wales city limits.

Investigators said 21-year-old Vincent Thomas, Jr. and at least three others drove to a home on Northside Drive in Lake Wales around 7 p.m. Tuesday. Deputies said Thomas got out of the car armed with a handgun, confronted a 20-year-old man outside the home and threatened to shoot him.

During the dispute, the 20-year-old armed himself with a rifle and shot at Thomas several times, striking him twice, the sheriffs office said. The shooter remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.

Thomas friends took him to a hospital, where he died from his injuries.

Man shot to death at busy intersection near Tampa; deputies searching for suspect

Two of Thomas friends were arrested by the Polk County Sheriffs Office. They were charged with tampering with evidence and providing false information to law enforcement during a felony investigation.

According to the sheriffs office, Thomas has prior arrests for battery on a law enforcement officer, threats against an LEO, failure to appear and resisting arrest. He was on felony probation at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information about the shooting can call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 888-400-8477.

Deputies said Thomas and the 20-year-old went to Lake Wales High School together and had some disagreements with each other.

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The Israeli military announced Tuesday that it has approved "operational plans" for an offensive against the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah. #XinhuaNews
Man shot in eye while sitting in car

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A man was shot in the eye while sitting in his car Tuesday evening in Nashville.

Metro police said the shooting happened at around 4:45 p.m. Tuesday, June 18 in the 300 block of Dellway Villa Road off Dickerson Pike.

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According to investigators, a 32-year-old man was shot in the eye while in his car and was taken to TriStar Skyline Medical Center in critical condition.

No other information was released.

 Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go.

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 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.

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MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11)  Police are searching for two suspects who allegedly slashed a man in the face and abdomen on Monday, June 10th.

The alleged attack happened at around 1:42 a.m. at the back of 655 West 34th Street, according to the NYPD.

More Local News

Police say the victim was slashed with unknown metal cutting instruments. He was taken to a local hospital.

The two suspects fled on foot toward West 37th Street, police said. Surveillance images show one suspect wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, multi-colored shorts, and black shoes. The second suspect was wearing black shorts with what appears to be the number 5 located on the right side and black shoes.

Credit: NYPD

Credit: NYPD

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.

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WEST PALM BEACH  A judge has sentenced a Boynton Beach-area man to 25 years in prison in a 2019 shooting outside a strip club that killed one man and wounded another.

Circuit Judge Cymonie Rowe pronounced the sentence on Friday, June 14, for Antoine Newton, who was found guilty at trial last August of aggravated battery with a firearm in the Thanksgiving morning altercation that wounded Ernest Taylor.

A second charge against Newton of first-degree murder in the death of 29-year-old Fadson Excellent remains undecided after jurors failed to reach a consensus, prompting Rowe to declare a mistrial on that charge.

Defense: Antoine Newton acted in self-defense; murder retrial pending

State prosecutors alleged that Newton, now 41, killed Excellent and wounded Taylor on the morning of Nov. 28, 2019, when he fired shots at them during a fight in the parking lot of the Rose Gentleman's Club, just beyond the Palm Springs village limits at Purdy Lane and Military Trail.

Newton's attorneys argued that he shot Excellent and Taylor in self-defense while accidently shooting a friend, Bataskia Marzette, in the process. Prosecutors decided not to pursue a charge related to Marzette's injury.

Antoine Newton, left, with defense attorney Scott Skier during jury selection at the Palm Beach County Courthouse in West Palm Beach, Florida on May 26, 2023. Newton was convicted of aggravated battery in a 2019 shooting.

Defense attorney Scott Skier noted a history of tension between the men, saying that Excellent had previously threatened Marzette with a gun at the same club.

During Friday's hearing, Rowe set a July 30 status hearing for the still-pending murder charge.

Newton told the court that he intends to appeal the aggravated battery conviction, saying it did not protect his Sixth Amendment right to face his accuser, since Taylor did not testify during the trial.

"I didn't go out to to hurt (anybody). It was self-defense," Newtown told the court, saying that Taylor appeared to be reaching for a firearm.

Rowe credited Newton with four years and six months of time served in the Palm Beach County Jail.

Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Appeal likely in Thanksgiving 2019 fatal shooting outside strip club
HAGERSTOWN, Md. (DC News Now)  The Hagerstown Police Department (HPD) has announced that a man wanted for a homicide from 2022 was arrested in Charlotte, North Carolina on June 13.

According to police, investigators have been searching for Taejon Gill since 44-year-old Sharron Clark was shot and killed on Oct. 18, 2022.

According to a previous DC News Now report, around 8 p.m., Hagerstown officers were in the area of Jonathan Street when they heard gunfire. At the same time, dispatch was notified of a gunshot victim in the 550 block of Murph Ave.

Maryland State Police trooper hit by possibly impaired driver in Montgomery County work zone

When officers arrived, they found Clark, who had been shot multiple times.

He was taken to the hospital, where he died.

As the investigation developed, police determined that Gill was a suspect in the case. However, he has been on the run for almost two years.

As of June 18, he was awaiting extradition back to Maryland.

A special thank you to the HPD detectives that worked on this case. They tirelessly investigated and worked relentlessly to see that Gill was brought to justice, HPD said in a post on social media.

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Editors Note: This story has been updated to clarify residents in Kansas also received emergency alerts about the suspect, and that he is wanted in connection with three homicides in Oklahoma.

MORRILTON, Ark. (KARK)  Residents in Arkansas and Kansas have been put on high alert as authorities search for an Alabama man they say is wanted in connection with three homicides in Oklahoma.

Stacy Drake, 50, of Birmingham, was last seen on surveillance footage at a hotel in Morrilton, Arkansas, about 50 miles northwest of Little Rock, according to police. The Morrilton Police Department also said that Arkansas State Police had notified them that the vehicle used in the homicides was parked at the hotel.

Officials said that officers searched the hotel, but Drake was not found. Police said it is unknown how he left the hotel.

Drake is a person of interest in three homicides from two different carjackings in Oklahoma.

Stacy Drake, see in this image provided by Arkansas State Police, is wanted in connection with three homicides. (Arkansas State Police)

One of those occurred on Tuesday, when authorities in Sequoyah County, Oklahoma, were called to a double homicide in Gans, roughly 100 miles southeast of Tulsa. According to Nexstars KFOR, a man and a woman were found dead inside a business with injuries consistent with homicide.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation named Drake as a person of interest in the case, though they did not share why. Details about the second alleged carjacking were not released.

Arkansas State Police say Drake is also wanted on multiple felony warrants from multiple jurisdictions, with charges including aggravated robbery, carjacking, and robbery.

Residents in Topeka, Kansas, some 430 miles from Morrilton, also received emergency alerts regarding Drake, describing him as an armed man wanted for homicides. Authorities have not said why the Kansas residents were notified.

Officials with the Morrilton Police Department said the suspect, 50-year-old Stacy Drake, was seen on surveillance footage at a hotel in Morrilton. (Released by Morrilton Police)

Drake is described as a white man standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 185 pounds. Images provided by the police department, seen above, show Drake wearing a dark colored shirt, hat and sunglasses.

Police said Drake is believed to be armed and dangerous. Anyone who has seen Drake is asked to contact the Morrilton Police Department at 501-354-0131.

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Man accused of posing as food delivery driver to break into Orange County homes

Man accused of posing as food delivery driver to break into Orange County homes

Authorities say a 37-year-old man posed as a food delivery driver in order to burglarize homes in Orange County.

Marcus Allen Corner of Monrovia was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Irvine Police Department, Corner was captured on surveillance cameras in the western part of the city carrying a food bag and visiting homes and apartments.

Irvine police seen arresting Marcus Allen Corner, 37, on June 18, 2024. (IPD)

Marcus Allen Corner, 37, seen in undated surveillance footage released by Irvine PD on June 18, 2024.

Marcus Allen Corner, 37, seen in undated surveillance footage released by Irvine PD on June 18, 2024.

Police tell KTLAs Chip Yost that Corner would knock on doors and peer through windows to see if anyone was inside. In one case, police he was confronted by a homeowner while trying to remove a window screen.

A video shared by police shows Corner allegedly inside an apartment he was burglarizing. They have allegedly connected him to at least four cases so far and are hoping other potential victims come forward.

Corner was booked at the Orange County jail on multiple burglary charges with bail enhancements.

Anyone with information about these crimes is asked to contact jhause@cityofirvine.com.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Manhattan mom booted from NYC parent education council sues for reinstatement: Inappropriate and unconstitutional

New York City Public Schools speaks during press conference on announcement regarding the safe storage of firearms at City Hall in New York on June 6, 2024

A Manhattan mom booted from a parent education council by city schools chief David Banks is seeking to be reinstated through a federal lawsuit.

Maud Maron of Manhattans Community Education Council 2 was ousted in a historic move by Banks on Friday under the citys D-210 complaint process.

The regulation allows the city Department of Education to investigate CEC members and remove them from positions.

Maud Maron, a Manhattan mom booted from a parent education council by city schools chief David Banks, is seeking to be reinstated through a federal lawsuit. Gabriella Bass

Banks also ousted Tajh Sutton, the president of Brooklyns ultra-woke Community Education Council 14.

Both women had various complaints lodged against them.

The controversial complaints process was up front and center in the Brooklyn federal court on Tuesday when Maron  alongside parent plaintiffs Deborah Alexander and Noah Harlan  argued its validity.

They know that the regulation was flawed from the start, Alexander said to The Post outside court.

Harlan added, The use of D210 to remove elected officials from their offices is wildly inappropriate and unconstitutional, and I think well be vindicated in that.

The trio is seeking an injunction against CEC-14, nominal damages of $17.91 per plaintiff and attorney fees, plus Marons reinstallment.

The regulation allows the city Department of Education to investigate CEC members and remove them from positions. ZUMAPRESS.com

Sutton has been reprimanded by Banks for promoting a citywide student walkout in protest of the Israel-Hamas war.

Maron allegedly made unacceptable derogatory or offensive comments about a public-school student in an interview with The Post.

She called said a Stuyvesant High School student who penned a school newspaper article widely viewed as antisemitic a coward because the writer was anonymous.

The suit claims that the DOE has imposed harsh consequences on individuals through the D-210 complaints.

So long as youre not issuing a true threat, we have very narrow definitions of unprotected speech, the plaintiffs lawyer Alan Gura said in court.

Gura argued that the D210 complaint system was vague and overbroad and questioned the DOEs removal of Maron.

Banks also ousted Tajh Sutton, the president of Brooklyns ultra-woke Community Education Council 14. Gabriella Bass

At the very least, if the court does not agree with us it should prevent Chancellor Banks from filling [her] seat, Gura added.

Its unclear what avenue of appeal there is if Marons and Suttons seats are filled.

Assistant Corporation Counsel for the city Law Department Jordan Doll defended the DOEs decision, saying the removals are appropriate and that if people dont like them, there is already a proper appeals process in place.

Judge Diane Gujarati has yet to make her decision but said she found various of the plaintiffs arguments persuasive.

I do think that certain aspects of D210 are potentially more troubling than others, she added before adjourning the case.
Parade participant Mark Mann walks down Oklahoma City Blvd. during the annual Pride Alliance Pride Parade in Downtown Oklahoma City on Sunday, June 25, 2023.

Mark Mann defeated Sam Wargin Grimaldo in Tuesday's primary for Oklahoma's Senate District 46.

Mann will face Republican Charles Barton and independent David Pilchman in the November general election.

With the exit of Senate Minority Leader Kay Floyd  think term limits  there's now a three-way battle for the Senate District 46 seat. The district is an awkward L-shaped creature that stretches from NW Eubanks at its top all the way to Del City and down to SW 89 Street.

Mark Mann currently serves as a board member for the Oklahoma State School Boards Association, Oklahoma Lawyers for Children and Families, and the Oklahoman Alliance for Healthy Families. He previously served on the Oklahoma City Public Schools Board of Education for seven years, leaving in early 2024.

Sam Wargin Grimaldo is an attorney who wants to leverage his mixed cultural background with his experience as an attorney to be the district's next state Senator.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma election results: Mann defeats Grimaldo in Senate District 46
MANILA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday tendered her resignation as secretary of the Department of Education, Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil said.

In a statement, Garafil said Duterte tendered her resignation as a member of the Cabinet during a visit to the presidential palace on Wednesday afternoon.

"She declined to give a reason why. She will continue to serve as vice president. We thank her for her service," Garafil said.

Garafil told reporters that Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos has accepted Duterte's resignation. 
King fought for economic justice, too. Getty Images.

Editors note: To commemorate Juneteenth, we share excerpts of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s speech at Stanford University in April 1967. We hear in this speech many of the themes that would animate Kings career but are too often forgotten: Economic equality and justice, the historical context of white backlash, and optimism as an ethos. The speech has been edited for length.

Id like to use as a subject from which to speak this afternoon, the other America. And I use this subject because there are literally two Americas. One America is beautiful for our situation. And in a sense, this America is overflowing with the miracle of prosperity and the honey of opportunity. This America is the habitat of millions of people who have food and material necessities for their bodies and culture and education for their minds, and freedom and human dignity for their spirit. In this America, millions of people experience every day the opportunity of having life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness in all of their dimensions. And in this America, millions of young people grow up in the sunlight of opportunity.

But tragically and unfortunately, there is another America. This other America has a daily ugliness about it that constantly transforms the buoyancy of hope into the fatigue of despair. In this America, millions of work-starved men walk the streets daily in search for jobs that do not exist. In this America, millions of people find themselves living in rat-infested, vermin-filled slums. In this America, people are poor by the millions. And they find themselves perishing on a lonely island of poverty, in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity.



The struggle for our civil rights and the struggle to make these two Americas one America is much more difficult today than it was five, 10 years ago Weve fought across the South, in various struggles to get rid of legal, overt segregation and all of the humiliation that surrounded that system of segregation. In a sense, this was a struggle for decency. We could not go to a lunch counter and get a hamburger or a cup of coffee. We could not make use of public accommodations. Public transportation was segregated, and often we had to sit in the back. In transportation within cities, we often had to stand over empty seats because sections were reserved for whites only. We did not have the right to vote, in so many areas of the South.

By the thousands, we protested these conditions. We made it clear that it was ultimately more honorable to accept jail cell experiences than the accept segregation and humiliation. By the thousands, students and adults decided to sit in at segregated lunch counters, to protest conditions there. And when they were sitting at those lunch hours, they were, in reality, standing up for the best in the American dream and seeking to take the whole nation back to those great wells of democracy, which were dug deep by the founding fathers in the formulation of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.



Its much easier to integrate a lunch counter than it is to guarantee a livable income and a good, solid job.

 Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

But we must see that the struggle today is much more difficult. Its more difficult today because we are struggling now for genuine equality, and its much easier to integrate a lunch counter than it is to guarantee a livable income and a good, solid job. Its much easier to guarantee the right to vote than it is to guarantee the right to live in sanitary, decent housing conditions. It is much easier to integrate a public park than it is to make genuine quality integrated education a reality.



Its something that is often overlooked, but Negros generally live in worse slums today than 20 or 25 years ago. In the North, schools are more segregated today than they were in 1954, when the Supreme Courts decision on desegregation was rendered. Economically, the Negro is worse off today than he was 15 and 20 years ago. And so the unemployment rate among whites, at one time, was about the same as the unemployment rate among Negros. But today, the unemployment rate among Negros is twice that of whites. And the average income of the Negro is today 50% less than whites.



Now the other thing that weve got to come to see now, that many others didnt see too well during the last 10 years, and that is that racism is still alive in American society, and much more widespread than we realize. And we must see racism for what it is. It is a myth of the superior and the inferior race. It is the false and tragic notion that one particular group, one particular race, is responsible for all of the progress, all of the insights in the total flow of history. And the theory that another group or another race is totally depraved, innately impure, and innately inferior. In the final analysis, racism is evil because its ultimate logic is genocide.



This leads me to say something about another discussion that we hit a great deal, and that is the so-called white backlash. I would like to honestly say to you that the white backlash is merely a new name for an old phenomenon. Its not something that just came into being because shouts of Black power or because Negros engaged in riots in Watts, for instance. The fact is that the state of California voted a fair housing bill out of existence before anybody shouted Black power or before anybody rioted in Watts. It may well be that shouts of Black power and riots in Watts and the Harlems and the other areas are the consequences of the white backlash, rather than the cause of them.

What it is necessary to see is that there has never been a single, solid, monistic, determined commitment on the part of the vast majority of white Americans on the whole question of civil rights and on the whole question of racial equality. This is something that truth impels all men of goodwill to admit.



Our nation has constantly taken a positive step forward on the question of racial justice and racial equality. But over and over again, at the same time, it made certain backwards steps. And this has been the persistence of the so-called white backlash.

In 1863, the Negro was freed from the bondage of physical slavery. But at the same time, the nation refused to give him land to make that freedom meaningful.

And at that same period, America was giving millions of acres of land in the West and the Midwest, which meant that America was willing to undergird its white peasants from Europe with an economic flower that would make it possible to grow and develop, and refused to give that economic flower to its Black peasants.

And this is why Frederick Douglass could say that emancipation for the Negro was freedom to hunger, freedom to the winds and rains of heaven, freedom without roofs to cover their heads. He went on to say that it was freedom without bread to eat, freedom without land to cultivate. It was freedom and famine at the same time.



Heres another notion that gets out. Its around everywhere. Its in the South, its in the North, its in California and all over our nation. Its the notion that legislation cant solve the problem, it cant do anything in this area. And those who project this argument, contend that youve got to change the heart, and that you cant change the heart through legislation.

Now, Ill be the first one to say that there is real need for a lot of heart changing in our country. And I believe in changing the heart. I preach about it. I believe in the need for conversion, in many instances, and regeneration, to use theological terms. And I would be the first to say that if the race problem in America is to be solved, the white person must treat the Negro right, not merely because the law says it, but because its natural. Because its right. And because the Negro is his brother.

And so I realize that if we are to have a truly integrated society, men and women will have to rise to the majestic heights of being obedient to the unenforceable.

But after saying this, let me say another thing: Although it may be true that morality cannot be legislated, behavior can be regulated. Even though it may be true that the law cannot change the heart, it can restrain the harvest. Even though it may be true that the law cannot make a man love me, it can restrain him from lynching me, and I think thats pretty important also.

And so while the law may not change the hearts of men, it can and it does change the habits of men. And when you begin to change the habits of men, pretty soon the attitudes will be changed. Pretty soon, the hearts will be changed. I am convinced that we still need strong civil rights legislation. And theres a bill before Congress right now to have a national, federal open housing bill. A federal law declaring discrimination in housing unconstitutional. And also a bill to make the administration of justice real, all over our country.

Now, nobody can doubt the need for this. Nobody can doubt the need, if he thinks about the fact that since 1963, some 58 Negros and white civil rights workers have been brutally murdered in the state of Mississippi alone, and not a single person has been convicted for these dastardly crimes.



The Negro came to this country involuntarily, in chains, while others came voluntarily No other racial group has been a slave on American soil. The society placed a stigma on the color of the Negro, on the color of his skin. Because he was Black, doors were closed to him that would not close to other groups. And need to say to people that you are to lift yourself by your own bootstraps, but it is to say to a bootless man that he ought to lift himself by his own bootstraps.

And the fact is that millions of Negros, as a result of centuries of denial and neglect, have been left bootless. And they find themselves impoverished aliens in this affluent society. And there is a great deal that the society can and must do, if the Negro is to gain the economic security that he needs.

Now, one of the answers, it seems to me, is a guaranteed annual income, a guaranteed minimum income for all people and for all families of our country. It seems to me that the civil rights movement must now begin to organize for the guaranteed annual income, begin to organize people all over our country and mobilize forces, so that we can bring to the attention of our nation, this need and this something which I believe will go a long, long way toward dealing with the Negros economic problem and the economic problem with many other poor people confronting our nation.



Now, let me say, finally, that we have difficult days ahead. But I havent despair. Somehow, I maintain hope in spite of hope, and Ive talked about the difficulties and how hard the problems will be, as we tackle them.

But I want to close by saying this afternoon that I still have faith in the future. And I still believe that these problems can be solved. And so I will not join anyone who will say that we still cant develop a coalition of conscience. I realize and understand the discontent and the agony and the disappointment, and even the bitterness of those who feel that whites in America cannot be trusted. And I would be the first to say that there are all too many who are still guided by the racist ethos.



I say that if the inexpressible cruelties of slavery couldnt stop us, the opposition that we now face, including the so-called white backlash, will surely fail. Were going to win our freedom.

Because both the sacred heritage of our nation and the will of the almighty God are embodied in our echoing demands.

And so I can still sing we shall overcome. We shall overcome because somehow the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.

We shall overcome because Carlisle is right. No lie can live forever. We shall overcome because William Cullen Bryant is right. Truth crushed to earth will rise again. We shall overcome because James Russell Lowell is right. Truth forever on the scaffold wronged, forever on the throne. Yet that scaffold sways the future.

With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope, this faith. We will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nations into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood.

With this faith, we will be able to speed up the day when all of Gods children, Black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and live together as brothers and sisters, all over this great nation. That will be a great day. That will be a great tomorrow. In the word sure to speak symbolically, that will be the day when the morning stars will sing together and the sons of God will shout for joy.

The post Martin Luther King Jr. on The other America appeared first on Minnesota Reformer.
Maryland this week became the latest state to announce mass pardons for people convicted of marijuana-related crimes as the nation wrestles with how to make amends for the lives disrupted in the decadeslong war on drugs.

Under Gov. Wes Moores plan, more than 175,000 convictions for possession of cannabis or drug paraphernalia will be pardoned, but not permanently erased from peoples criminal records.

Heres a look at where the U.S. stands in addressing old marijuana convictions.

A fraction of cannabis convictions have been expunged or pardoned

NORML, a group that advocates for legalized marijuana, has tallied about 2.5 million expungements and pardons for cannabis convictions in recent years.

Its also a drop in the bucket when you consider the reality that over the last 50 years or so, over 30 million Americans have been arrested at the state or local level for marijuana, Paul Armentano, NORMLs deputy director, said in an interview.

Pardons forgive people for their crimes. A pardon can restore civil liberties, such as voting, serving on juries and gun ownership. Expungements go further, hiding the record of convictions entirely; that can clear the way for receiving federal college tuition assistance, qualifying for public housing and allowing parents to participate in their childrens school activities, among other benefits.

Executive branch officials such as mayors, governors and the president can offer pardons on their own, and relatively few executives have done sweeping ones like Marylands. Theyve done so in Massachusetts, Nevada, Oregon, Birmingham, Alabama; and Kansas City, Missouri.

President Joe Biden has ordered multiple rounds of pardons for those convicted of possession on federal lands or in the District of Columbia. Its not clear exactly how many people are covered. For proof theyve been pardoned, people have to apply for a certificate; as of this month, only a little over 200 covered by Bidens pardon had done so.

It takes a court  often at the direction of a law  to order expungements, though Oregon provides those along with pardons, and the Maryland approach makes it easier to obtain an expungement.

Clearing crimes is rooted in legalizing marijuana

Marijuana laws have changed vastly since the late 1990s when states began allowing medical marijuana, something most states have since done. Twenty-four states have legalized recreational use for adults, 26 have decriminalized it and the U.S. Justice Department this year moved to reclassify it as a less dangerous drug, a move that gives hope to advocates in the remaining 12 states that it could be legalized there, too.

When Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize marijuana in 2012, it raised an issue: Is it OK for people convicted in the past of something thats legal now to continue to suffer consequences?

Increasingly, voters and lawmakers have been saying no. Most states that have legalized the drug recently have had as part of that policy a way to clear convictions for past use. An expungement-by-application provision was included when Marylands voters approved legalizing marijuana in a 2022 ballot measure.

But often those provisions require people with convictions to petition to have their records expunged, a process that can take time and require the help of a lawyer.

Policies like Marylands can address racial disparities

Advocates say that granting pardons or expungements in one swoop, as Maryland did, is a way to address long-standing racial disparities.

A major toll of the nations drug policies is that Black people have suffered more direct consequences than white people, even though studies have found they use marijuana at similar rates.

An ACLU analysis of federal crime data found that Black people were more than three times as likely as white people to be charged with marijuana possession in 2018. There were disparities in every state.

Automatic pardons and expungements cover everyone who qualifies and dont introduce more chances for disparities.

A 2020 study by University of Michigan Law School professors found that less than 7% of the people eligible for expungement there were granted it. Most didnt apply.

Under the old petition model, you needed a lot of resources to get an expungement, said Adrian Rocha, policy manager at Last Prisoner Project, which, like other advocacy groups, is pushing for large-scale pardon and expungement policies.

The blanket pardons for whole categories of activities that were previously criminalized  they do help Black and brown communities and help address the impacts that all communities have faced, said Cat Packer, director of drug markets and legal regulation at Drug Policy Alliance.

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Members of the Carroll County Board of Education discussed last week the school systems policy regarding use of artificial intelligence in classrooms.

School system staff members have been working to create instructional guidelines for the use of generative AI in schools since an initial discussion was held in July 2023. In October, the school system formed an AI Guidelines Committee, which worked through January to develop a set of guidelines for the school system.

Board of Education Vice President Tara Battaglia said during the school boards June 12 meeting that AI will never replace teachers, but learning to use the technology is becoming increasing relevant to real-world careers.

It does have a lot of good to it, Battaglia said. We just have to make sure were using it correctly.

AI technologies have been slowly progressing since the dawn of digital computers, but the recent advancement of neural networks represents a large stride in machine learning. Popular generative AI models, such as ChatGPT, absorb a massive amount of text, using a neural network to store data in a way that is similar to a human brain, then using its understanding of common word and sentence pairings to generate new text.

When generating text, an AI is essentially guessing the most likely next word of its own sentence, with help from a dataset so vast it can attempt to mimic a style or tone found in the training data.

ChatGPTs engine is called Large Language Modeling, but other AI technologies can use a similar process to generate charts, images, audio, video, and more.

Carrolls public school students may use generative AI to assist with planning or outlining an assignment, suggest revisions, draft an email or letter, and personalize learning.

However, the new technology still has limitations for classroom use, according to the presentation. AI-generated text is often less vibrant, more repetitive, and less intentional about use of tone, than human-written text. AI may also produce text that is inaccurate, offensive or insensitive.

We know that colleges are using it, and the workforce is using it, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Steve Wernick told the school board. Its really about ensuring that students understand how to use it, how to use it correctly, and then how to make their own work.

A syllabus statement provided in the Carroll schools presentation posted online clarifies that students may not use AI tools to help with assignments unless their teacher grants permission to do so.

A tool within Schoology, the school systems online learning portal, helps teachers to detect when students have misused AI instead of writing an assignment themselves, according to the presentation. Schoology is used by the system to allow for the online submission of assignments, among other things.

The tool provides the percentage of text likely generated by AI and highlights that text within the document for teachers to view. Middle and high school teachers are encouraged to use the AI detection tool, then carefully consider the results before initiating a conversation with the student.

School board member Steve Whisler said he appreciates that there are guardrails in place for student use of AI and would like to ensure that educators use of AI in instruction is also regulated.

I really hope this tool helps our teachers develop great lessons and great exercises, Whisler said, but I want to make sure that they fall in line with our curriculum, our standard, and our way of thinking in Carroll County.

Wernick said professional learning exercises for all middle and high school teachers set to occur in August will address proper use of AI for educators.

_____
JOPLIN, Mo.  Some local high school students are getting hands-on experience in the healthcare field.

Wednesday was the second day of a MASH Camp at Mercy Hospital Joplin. Tuesday, the kids spent time at KCU-Joplin. This camp is a partnership with the Southwest Missouri Area Health Education Center and offers students a behind-the-scenes look at various healthcare positions.

Students toured various hospital facilities, including emergency rooms, emergency vehicles, operating rooms, and imaging rooms. They also received training on applying stitches and staples.

Its always a good opportunity and a good experience for students to have if they can see something and they can actually do it. They might understand, Hey, this is something that I can do for the rest of my life, or they may understand, This is something I do not want to do for the rest of my life, and both are equally important. But it is good to let them know that there are different options out there instead of just being a doctor or nurse, said Trisha Riggs, Director of the Southwest Missouri Area Health Education Center.

Riggs hopes the students can find what they love doing through the camp. The students represent Joplin, Carthage, Purdy, Webb City, and other surrounding areas.

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Mass arrests in Kenya as angry citizens protest against tax hikes

Protests have erupted in parts of Kenya, with hundreds detained by police as citizens rejected planned tax hikes in the East African nation already grappling with escalating living costs.

Civil society groups said that at least 283 people have been arrested since Tuesday as protests flared over the proposed hikes.

The government faced backlash in the capital Nairobi on Tuesday over the controversial bill and was forced to amend it after dozens of demonstrators rallied outside the countrys parliament building.

Among the taxes suspended was a 16% value-added tax on bread and a 2.5% tax on motor vehicles, a statement from Kenyas presidency said.

A proposed increase in mobile money transfer fees was also shelved along with taxes on vegetable oil. Additionally, levies on locally produced products, such as diapers and sanitary towels, have been dropped.

However, some Kenyans were not pleased with the changes and have called for the bill to be scrapped completely.

We are rejecting the whole thing, Kenyan John Wills Njoroge wrote on social media platform X. We didnt ask for amendments. We asked for the withdrawal of the entire bill, he added.

Videos posted on social media Wednesday showed a group of protesters marching in the rain in Mombassa to express their displeasure over the bill.

In another location, protesters could be heard chanting: Reject, not amend.

Earlier on Wednesday, CNN affiliate NTV shared footage of police dispersing Mombasa protesters with teargas.

Its not immediately known whether any arrests have been made in Mombasa, Kenyas second-largest city.

Amnesty Internationals Kenya office said it was deeply outraged by the arbitrary arrest of peaceful protestors in Nairobi on Tuesday.

The human rights organization said that the Kenyan Police Service had shown a blatant disregard for the right to protest, opting instead to silence dissent through force and intimidation.

CNN has contacted the Kenyan Police Service for comment.

An alliance of civil society groups called for the unconditional release of detained protesters, which it said included journalists.

The use of excessive force, intimidation of civilians, violation of privacy through physical searches and arbitrary arrests is an outright infringement of the constitutional rights of the people of Kenya, the alliance said.

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A 56-year-old massage therapist from Riverside has been arrested on allegations of sexual battery and false imprisonment of a customer and authorities believe the man may have other victims.

In a press release, the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department said in May of this year deputies took a report on the incident and identified the suspect as Charles Russell, a certified massage therapist.

Authorities allege the 56-year-old sexually touched a customer inappropriately during a massage at Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa, in Rancho Cucamonga, and added that they were able to substantiate the allegations.

An arrest warrant was issued for Russell, and he was taken into custody on June 12 and booked at the West Valley Detention Center.

Massage therapist in SoCal accused of sexual battery

Through further investigation, and based on information collected, deputies believe there may be additional victims, the release noted. Detectives are releasing Russells photograph in an attempt to locate additional victims.

Pursuit suspect in Southern California hits speeds of 135 miles per hour

Anyone who may have been a victim of the 56-year-old or who has information regarding this investigation is urged to contact SBSD Deputy M. Gonzalez of the Rancho Cucamonga Station at 909-477-2800.

Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the WeTip Hotline at 800-782-7463 or submit tips online at www.wetip.com.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
What you may not know about the Father of Juneteenth Al Edwards

The Texas state representative, who died one year before Juneteenth became a federal holiday, dedicated his life and career to making it a reality.

Though Juneteenth is now recognized across the country, many people dont know the story behind the man partially responsible for it being a federal holiday.



Though Opal Lee, known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth, brought national attention to the holiday through her advocacy  including 2.5-mile commemorative walks in the Lone Star State  Texas State Rep. Al Edwards, known to many as the Father of Juneteenth, masterminded the legislative victory.

President Joe Biden, who signed Juneteenth into law as a federal holiday in 2021, named Rep. Edwards in the 2023 and 2024 Juneteenth Day of Observance proclamation. Biden notes that Edwards authored the bill that made Juneteenth a statewide holiday in Texas. It was that legislation and the advocacy of Edwards, Lee and others that expanded the holiday to states across the nation.

Edwards, who represented parts of Houston in the state legislature for over 30 years, dedicated his political career to making Juneteenth a federal holiday. Through his nonprofit Juneteenth USA and work as chairman and vice chair of the Democratic National Committee Black Caucus, Edwards was resolute on making his dream a reality.

During a 2007 interview with The History Makers, he said, We will make it a national holiday, adding, If God leaves breath in my body and people keep working like theyre working. Unfortunately, his health declined following a car accident in 2014 and he passed in 2020, just one year before Biden signed the bill.



Al Edwards II, Jason Edwards and Alana Edwards-Holloway, are now carrying the baton of their late fathers organization and aim to keep his name and legacy alive.

This was his dream, and this was his contribution to America as a legislator, Jason Edwards told theGrio after attending the White Houses Juneteenth concert celebration. Jason Edwards said, From a historical standpoint, he deserves his flowers.

Vice President Kamala Harris and Opal Lee (2nd L), the activist known as the grandmother of Juneteenth, watch as President Joe Biden signs the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act on June 17, 2021, in Washington. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)

The quest to federalize the Juneteenth holiday was not an easy one for Al Edwards, who literally ran for office in 1978 with that mission in mind. Before the holiday ultimately spread to 45 states, the lawmaker faced political opposition at home, including from some white Texans.

People were leaving red soda on his desk on the Statehouse floor to poke fun at him, and Black folks were telling him that he shouldnt do it because it was bringing up old history, recalled Jason Edwards.

In 1979, Al Edwards was compelled to make a trade-off with a fellow Texas legislator who opposed making Juneteenth an official state holiday.

He had to support a lot of things that were unsavory, shared Jason Edwards, who recalled his fathers story about a state senator who said, I cant bring your Black holiday to my district. When Rep. Edwards pushed to negotiate, he was asked to support a bill commemorating the Sons of the Confederacy. He reluctantly agreed. If he did not, his Juneteenth bill wouldve been dead on arrival.

He was glad he did it, because at the end of the day, both [commemorations of Juneteenth and the confederacy] were factually true. It definitely didnt make him feel good, but he wanted to win the war, and not the battle, said Jason Edwards.

Following Texas adoption of Juneteenth as a statewide holiday, Rep. Edwards used his own funds to jumpstart the Juneteenth USA national campaign and organization, including refinancing his home. He aimed to make Juneteenth a nationwide holiday by advocating and supporting other state legislators who adopted versions of his Texas bill.

Rep. Al Edwards, left, D-Houston, talks with Rep. Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie, during the 79th Texas Legislature on May 29, 2005, in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle) (Photo by Brett Coomer/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)

He knew that Juneteenth wouldnt pass federally, like Martin Luther Kings holiday did, because the states didnt like that, said Jason Edwards, noting that some states didnt adopt MLK Day early on. Dad knew it had to be [passed] state by state. Being a state legislator, he understood how that system worked.

Jason Edwards told theGrio it was a full circle moment to see his fathers name in the White House history books for the very thing he dedicated his life and career to achieving. Sitting in the front row with President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris was particularly gratifying as they celebrated Juneteenth on the White House South Lawn earlier this month. He said it was absolutely wonderful to see the president and vice president highlight what Al Edwards, Opal Lee, and others have done for the country and for Black folks. He added, It was just truly a memorable night all the way around.

As millions of Americans will be off from work for the federal holiday, Jason Edwards noted that many will get the chance to reflect on the history of Juneteenth and why it is celebrated  just as his father always intended.

He wanted America to take a moment every year to recognize our ancestors and their impact on the country, he said. America has to not turn its face away from American slavery.

And while many Americans may not like celebrating a holiday that commemorates Americas dark history, Jason Edwards said its necessary  no matter how uncomfortable it might be. He added, Lets lean in on our history and let it be a [reminder] why we are where we are today.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  For the first time in Kansas City history, more than 200 mayors from all across the country are coming to the metro to attend the 92nd Annual United States Conference of Mayors Meeting hosted by Mayor Quinton Lucas.

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From Thursday to Sunday, mayors from coast to coast will discuss solutions to community issues, including gun violence, homelessness and the opioid and mental health crises. They will also address priorities for the next administration before the November election.

The meeting will host more than 1,000 attendees and will have a major economic impact on the metro, bringing millions of dollars to Kansas City and filling nearly 800 hotel rooms on the conferences peak night.

Mayors are on the front lines of solving complex issues every day and our time spent at USCM meetings provides a critical opportunity for relationship-building with peer mayors and policy experts to help us serve our communities more effectively, Mayor Lucas said. Recruiting large-scale conferences like these are good for both our economy and reputation and we will continue to market Kansas City as the best place to live, work, play, visit, or hold a conference. Jackson County legislator proposes new Chiefs-centric sales tax Mayor Lucas will be leading the Criminal and Social Justice Committee meeting with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Director Steven Dettelbach, and Drug Enforcement Administration Principal Deputy Administrator George Papadopoulos on Thursday at 2:15 p.m. Mayor Lucas will also be hosting another panel, Preventing and Reducing Gun Violence, on Saturday at 3 p.m. alongside may notable and national public officials.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  In a major step in the City of Portlands upcoming restructuring, Mayor Ted Wheeler will take control of all government bureaus starting July 1.

Under the mayor, a new city administrator will be tasked with running day-to-day operations, including the city bureaus  a shift from the citys current form of government in which city commissioners lead a group of several bureaus at a time.

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Voters approved the restructuring of the citys government in November 2022 with Measure 26-228, which means Portland City Council members will be relegated to focus on city policy.

Mayor Wheeler said the shift will make the government more efficient. However, it will require six months to complete.

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler, June 18, 2024 (KOIN)

This is a major shift, Wheeler said. This is the biggest shift the city has seen in over 100 years. It requires us to not only shift the boxes, but also think more horizontally.

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Portlands soon-to-be-phased-out form of government has the Mayor and four commissioners elected at large, with each one in control of a specific bureau. The new charter will alleviate commissioners of these executive roles, with the bureau duties going to an appointed city administrator in the Mayors office.

The new form of government also increases the number of council members from four to 12, all of whom now represent specific areas of the city, with the Mayor and auditors remaining as city-wide elected representatives.

Portland Interim Administrator Michael Jordan, June 18, 2024 (KOIN)

This is a big change for Portland, but we are changing from what is an anomaly in city government across the United States to what is a normal operating city government in the United States, Michael Jordan, the interim city administrator, said.

PHOTOS: X-ray shows cat attempted to eat sewing needle that got lodged in nasal cavity

Wheeler said the goal is to get that new form of government road-tested now to ensure there are fewer issues in January when he leaves office and the new government structure takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.

I dont have a personal stake in the outcome of this process by truly doing this, because the public wants us to do it, Wheeler said. There will be hitches along the way. We can anticipate what some of them might be, but many things were just going to have to get in there, roll up our sleeves, start doing the work, and address issues as they arise.

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.
The embattled McCurtain County sheriff faced two challengers in the Republican primary race to retain his seat. An audio recording of Sheriff Kevin Clardy and other county and jail officials rocked the southeast Oklahoma county last year.

The southeast Oklahoma sheriff who was at the center of a national controversy about race and policing in rural America will soon be out of office.

McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy placed third among three Republicans vying for the countys top law enforcement job. His two challengers appeared headed to a runoff, according to Tuesdays primary election results, which are not yet certified.

Clardy did not immediately return a message to speak about his primary defeat. He received 18% of the 2,185 votes cast.

The sheriff came under fire in April 2023 after a recording published by the local newspaper captured him talking about harming journalists and joking about a death investigation. A county commissioner talked about lynching Black people during the same conversation.

McCurtain County is one of the most diverse counties in Oklahoma, with large Black and Indigenous populations. The recording led to scrutiny of the countys justice system and claims that it had treated people of color unfairly for generations. It also galvanized many local residents to begin attempting to transform their county government.

We couldnt be happier with the results, but theres a lot more to do, said Lonnie Watson, who helps lead the McCurtain County Movement, a community group formed after the recording came to light.

Watson said he was surprised by Clardys landslide defeat but believed voters were frustrated by the sheriffs refusal to acknowledge or make amends for his role in the recorded conversation, which drew headlines nationwide.

While County Commissioner Mark Jennings stepped down soon after the audio was made public, Clardy ignored calls to do the same. Gov. Kevin Stitt joined scores of local residents in pressuring him to resign. The sheriffs office questioned the authenticity of the audio, which was recorded and released by the McCurtain Gazette.

The Oklahoma attorney generals office investigated Clardy for possible abuses of office. But after a two-month probe, investigators said they had found no crimes to prosecute or grounds to remove Clardy from office. Attorney General Gentner Drummond urged voters to weigh in at the ballot box.

In response to the election results, Drummond commended voters for choosing a different path and said he looked forward to working with the Clardys successor.

The voters of McCurtain County stated clearly that they reject the leadership of a man whose statements were clearly hateful and racist, Drummond said in a statement.

McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy

Clardys opponents were two men with past law enforcement experience: Bruce Shirey, who captured 49% of the vote, and Jason Ricketts, who got 32%. Whoever wins the August runoff will face Democrat Steve McKee in the November general election.

Tuesdays vote came after months of activism by the McCurtain County Movement and other local residents. The group held voter registration drives and took other steps to raise awareness about the importance of attending government meetings and showing up at the ballot box.

Watson said he was disappointed by the poor voter turnout Tuesday  less than a quarter of registered Republicans voted in the sheriffs primary race. He said his group will continue to stress the importance of voting ahead of the runoff and general elections later this year.

I want people to understand that even when a few people come together to make changes, like we all did, those changes can be made, said Watson, who is also a teacher in Idabel, the county seat.

State records show the county gained about 400 voters this year, nearly all of them Republicans. The total number of registered voters in McCurtain County stood at 17,000 in May, just more than half of the countys total population.

No matter who eventually takes over as sheriff next year, it will be a time of healing for McCurtain County citizens and law enforcement officers, Watson said.

Were gonna let these deputies know that we are still on their side, he said. A couple of bad apples dont spoil the tree.

The increased attention on the county has come as it tries to rebrand as a outdoor oasis for Dallas-area residents. Vacation homes in Hochatown, a newly incorporated town in the county, routinely sell for more than $1 million. The county also brought in hundreds of tourists for the April eclipse because it was located in the path of totality.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma sheriff at the center of national controversy loses primary
BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- More than 60,000 artificially-bred Chinese sturgeon were released into the section of the Yangtze River in Jingzhou City in central China's Hubei Province, on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in restoring the species' wild population.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, this release brings the total number of Chinese sturgeon released in 2024 to over 1 million, setting a new record for annual releases of this rare fish species.

Nicknamed "aquatic pandas," Chinese sturgeon have existed for over 140 million years. However, the natural population of the species in the Yangtze plummeted in the late 20th century due to intrusive human activities.

The fish is primarily protected through artificial breeding followed by release into the natural environment. In recent years, China has made significant conservation efforts, including expanding artificial breeding and release and fostering natural breeding of the species.

The ministry has pledged to cultivate and release 5 million Chinese sturgeon within three to five years to replenish the wild population of the species.

In 2021, China implemented a 10-year fishing ban in key waters of the Yangtze River, effectively increasing the populations of various aquatic species. 
McDonalds is hiring for over 7,083 jobs in NY: How to apply

NEW YORK (PIX11)  Looking for a job in New York? A local McDonalds owner and operator is hiring for more than 7,000 open positions this summer.

Whether you are looking for the flexibility of part-time work or youre a college student in need of some extra cash for the summer, there are thousands of potential job opportunities available.

NYC program offers paid training for high-paying jobs

People are the heart of our business, and the skills our crew members learn in our restaurants, like responsibility, teamwork, and responsiveness, can open the door to so many different career paths, said Roy Iraci, a local McDonalds owner/operator. As local business owners, were committed to empowering our employees and the communities we serve.

McDonalds is hiring for both full-time and part-time jobs. Positions range from Crew Team Member to Shift or Department Manager to Maintenance.

Working for McDonalds also opens up opportunities to advance your education. The company offers assistance to earn a high school diploma, ESL classes, and tuition assistance. Employees also receive free educational and career guidance from advisors through the companys education and career advising program.

More Local News

If youre interested in applying, visit jobs.mchire.com. You can also text apply to 38000 to start an application via text message.

Lauren Cook is a digital journalist who has covered local news in the New York City area for over a decade. She has been with PIX11 since 2020. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter.

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.
Mecklenburg County commissioners failed to pass a proclamation in support of Pride Month on Tuesday after a clash over procedural questions.

Board Chairman George Dunlap and Commissioner Elaine Powell voted against a motion to add the proclamation to the boards Tuesday agenda after a tense debate. The motion required unanimous approval, so the proclamation wasnt added by commissioners.

Proclamations typically pass unanimously and without debate, recognizing causes, awareness of illnesses or social issues and holidays. And commissioners passed Pride Month proclamations in previous years.

Commissioner Pat Cotham, who made the motion to add the proclamation at Tuesdays meeting, said she tried to get it on the agenda Friday but was denied.

Dunlap said everyone on the board supports the LGBTQ+ community, but that Cotham failed to follow a rule that requires agenda items to be filed with the County Clerks Office at least 11 days before a meeting.

Their failure to know and follow the rules does not fall on me, he said.

Multiple members of Charlottes LGBTQ+ community expressed disappointment with the commissions decision during the meetings public comment period.

At a time when some elected officials call LGBTQ people filth, we need allies more than ever. We are afraid, said Cameron Pruette, deputy director of The Freedom Center for Social Justice.

Tensions flare over adding Pride proclamation to agenda

Dunlap said during Tuesdays debate he was well aware of other commissioners emailing about him and the situation without reaching out to him directly.

It is not only the chairs responsibility to know and understand the rules, he said. It is each member of this boards responsibility to know and understand the rules.

Cotham rejected the notion that she was late in trying to get the proclamation added to Tuesdays agenda. She said for the decade-plus shes been on the board, commissioners have been allowed to file items with the clerk as late as the Friday before a meeting.

We have more than 100,000 residents in our county who are LGBTQ. They need to know that we have their backs and we honor them, she said.

Powell said commissioners arent divided about whether to support the LGBTQ+ community. She said she would vote with Dunlap because she felt he was being unfairly villainized.

Hes just trying to follow the process, she said.

Vice Chairman Mark Jerrell said his vote in favor of adding the proclamation to the agenda was about the importance of recognizing Pride, not disrespecting anyone on the board.

None of us feel good about where we are, he said of the situation.

Commissioner Vilma Leake criticized others on the board for focusing on a procedural issue in connection with an important issue in the community.

If you believe in the right thing, do the right thing, said the District 2 representative, who noted her late son, who was gay, faced bullying throughout his life and died during the AIDS epidemic.

LGBTQ+ advocates: Were tired of being politicized

Pruette told commissioners he was disappointed with their decision, especially in a time where hate crimes and anti-LGBTQ+ legislation are on the rise.

My community cannot wait, he said. We cannot yield because of the status quo. We ask to be recognized, we demand to be recognized and we stand with everyone else who needs to be heard. These voices are being silenced.

Bethany Corrigan, a board member of the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce, said they were tired of being politicized.

My community will not see your rules as superseding our existence, Corrigan said.

The boards decision sends a message to your community, they added.

The message will be that Pride Month was not important to you, and that this historical erasure was a well-worth sacrifice to your rules and precedent and procedures, they said.

In our CLT Politics newsletter, we offer exclusive insight into Charlotte-region politics sent to your inbox on Thursdays. Subscribe for free. Story idea? mramsey@charlotteobserver.com.
When President Joe Biden signed a bill making Juneteenth a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, one woman captured well-deserved attention.

Opal Lee, now 97, was described by Biden as the "grandmother of the movement" to make Juneteenth a federal holiday.

And Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black vice president, also gave Lee her due in her remarks, saying, "And looking out across this room, I see the advocates, the activists, the leaders, who have been calling for this day for so long, including the one and only Ms. Opal Lee.

In 2016, at 89 years old, Lee, a former teacher and lifelong activist, walked from her home in Fort Worth, Texas, to the nation's capital in an effort to get Juneteenth named a national holiday.

PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris watches as Opal Lee (2nd L), the activist known as the grandmother of Juneteenth, is given a pen after President Joe Biden signs the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, in the White House, June 17, 2021. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images)

Four years later, Lee's activism helped push Congress to establish a new national holiday for the first time in nearly 40 years. In 1983, lawmakers designated Martin Luther King Jr. Day as the third Monday in January to memorialize the assassinated civil rights leader.

"I was overjoyed. I was ecstatic," Lee told ABC News in 2020" of her reaction to Juneteenth becoming a national holiday. "I was so happy I could have done a holy dance."

Juneteenth -- also known as Freedom Day, Liberation Day and Emancipation Day -- is celebrated on June 19 to mark the day in 1865 when African American slaves in Galveston, Texas, were among the last to be told they had been freed -- a full two-and-a-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation outlawed slavery in the Confederacy and two months after the Civil War officially ended.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden is applauded as he reaches for a pen to sign the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law as Vice President Kamala Harris stands by in the East Room of the White House June 17, 2021. (Carlos Barria/Reuters)

To this day, Lee walks two-and-a-half miles each year on June 19 to mark the time between the Emancipation Proclamation and when the news of freedom arrived in Galveston.

This year, Lee marked the anniversary at the White House's first-ever Juneteenth celebration, a concert that featured Audra McDonald and Jennifer Hudson and remarks by Harris and Biden.

PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris welcomes Opal Lee to the stage during a Juneteenth concert on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, June 13, 2023. Opal Lee is considered the grandmother of Juneteenth. (Susan Walsh/AP)

"Make yourself a committee of one to change somebody's mind," Lee told the audience gathered on the White House's South Lawn. "If people can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love."

PHOTO: Vice President Kamala Harris greets activist Opal Lee as they attend a Juneteenth concert at the White House in Washington, June 13, 2023. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)

A Texas native, Lee said she experienced racial unrest firsthand during her childhood, including a night, on June 19, 1939, when a group of hundreds of rioters set fire to her family's home.

MORE: Haven't heard of Juneteenth? Here's what you need to know

"The people didn't want us. They started gathering. The paper said the police couldn't control the mob. My father came with a gun and police told them if he busted a cap they'd let the mob have us," Lee told ABC station KTRK-TV in Houston. "They started throwing things at the house and when they left, they took out the furniture and burned it and burned the house."

"People have said that perhaps this is the catalyst that got me onto Juneteenth, I don't know that," she said.

PHOTO: Opal Lee, 93, stands in front of the East Annie Street lot on June 2, 2021, where white rioters attacked, invaded and burned her family's home in 1939. (Amanda McCoy/Fort Worth Star-Telegram/TNS via Getty Images)

Advocates like Lee say it offers a day to reflect on slavery's terrible stain on American history and for celebrations that look similar to those on the Fourth of July.

Juneteenth celebrations have become more mainstream in recent years, taking on added significance in 2020 when the country went through a racial reckoning after the killing of George Floyd.

MORE: Former President Barack Obama talks race, resilience and hope for Juneteenth

Lee said she hopes the federal holiday will help educate people about what happened and "decide that this doesnt have to happen again." She also hopes Juneteenth will become a day of national unity.

"Juneteenth is not a Black thing and its not a Texas thing," she told ABC News. "People all over, I dont care what nationality, we all bleed red blood."

Editor's note: This report was originally published on June 18, 2021.

Meet Opal Lee, the 'grandmother of the movement' to make Juneteenth a federal holiday originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com
A sweeping manhunt in New York City ended on Tuesday after 23-year-old Angela Sauretti recognized a man in a black hoodie who entered the 108th Street Grocery in Queens at 1 a.m.

Sauretti was all but certain this was the face she had seen on Instagramin an NYPD wanted poster for a man suspected in the machete-point rape of a 13-year-old girl as she walked with a boy her age last week.

Sauretti called out to a friend who stood nearby who had also seen the police Instagram posting. She asked if this was indeed the man more than 60 detectives had been seeking since Thursdays broad daylight attack in a park across from the victims junior high school.

I pointed him out, Sauretti told The Daily Beast. Im like, Yo, thats him? [The friend] said, Yes, thats him. Thats what confirmed it. And everything just spiraled from there.

Sauretti grabbed the man in the hoodie.

He tried to run, so I put him in a headlock, she told The Daily Beast.

He continued to struggle and she took an opportunity to administer her own brand of street justice

He got something that his mother should have done to him, she said. Ill put it that way.

She added, As a woman, I had to really set the tone and remind him, It wasnt a man that did this to you. It was a woman.

New Yorkers, we need your help in tracking down this monster who held a child at knife point and sexually assaulted her in Kissena Park. If you know him, if you see him, call the NYPD at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) and help put him where he belongs, behind bars. All calls are pic.twitter.com/iptbEjCG4x  NYPD Deputy Commissioner, Operations Kaz Daughtry (@NYPDDaughtry) June 17, 2024

He kept resisting, allowing her to further impart a particular lesson.

You did that to a woman, and a woman got back and did this to you. she said. So it had him contemplating, Maybe I wont mess with the next woman. Because you never know. Theres nice ones and there's ones that will really defend themselves and go all out.

The man protested.

He said, Let me explain! Im like, Theres nothing to explain. Youre a rapist, she recalled. He said, I dont care. Im like, What do you mean you dont care? Youre a rapist. He said, I don't care.

Another woman, 67-year-old Isabel Caizado, kicked the man before taking off one of her shoes to hit him with it. Those who joined in included Daniel Ramos, who had overheard the figure in the black hoodie saying an hour earlier that he intended to board a plane for Ecuador in the morning.

The black hoodie and then a T-shirt underneath it came off as the man fought to get away. Sauretti said she saw a tattoo of what was either a boar or a bull with red eyes on his left upper chest, just as the NYPD described in its posting.

Thats what made us go even harder, Sauretti said.

The man managed to crawl under a car.

Like a cat, Sauretti said.

Sauretti and the others kept the car surrounded so he could not escape. She figures that the man was lucky that the police arrived on the scene when they did.

The officers arrested the man they later identified as 25-year-old Christian Geovanny Inga-Landi, an undocumented immigrant from Ecuador who had crossed the southern border at Eagle Pass, Texas in 2021. He was still bare-chested when he was perp walked from the 112 Precinct station house later in the morning, the tattoo there for all to see.

Sauretti spoke to detectives and was back outside the grocery in the afternoon.

They said we made a citizens arrest, she reported.

She told The Daily Beast that the $10,000 reward for information leading to the capture of the accused rapist had not been a factor in her decision to act.

I would have done it even if it wasnt a reward, because at the end of the day, I feel as if thats the right thing to do, she said.

She reported that her mother is a school crossing guard and that she herself wants to go into radiology. She described a clear sense of self that guides her.

I have structure. I have boundaries. I know where I stand, what I like, what I don't like, what I want to do, what I don't want to do. Nobody can peer pressure me. Nobody can tell me what to do.

She said she had not come by this inner resolve naturally.

I had to go through a lot, she said.

The big manhunt had ended, and the one regret she voiced was that the glass on her wristwatch broke when she placed the accused rapist in a headlock.

Im upset, but it s just a material thing, the hero said.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The Memo: Immigration is on the ballot in Trump-Biden race

The stakes with respect to immigration are as high as they can be in Novembers election  and Tuesdays events showed it.

President Biden announced a new plan that could enable around 500,000 unauthorized migrants, married to U.S. citizens, to gain legal status and ultimately become citizens themselves.

At a White House event announcing the move, first lady Jill Biden empathized with the plight of people in this scenario, whom she characterized as having spent years with the shadow of a missing piece of paper hanging over them.

Her husband, she said, was seeking to change that, from a position of compassion and experience.

About an hour later and about 750 miles away in Racine, Wis., former President Trump told supporters that the Biden plan would be ripped up and thrown out on the first day that were back in office.

The former president insisted that the Biden move, made by executive order, was illegal as hell.

Crooked Joe is sending a message to the world that he rewards illegal entry, Trump added.

It was a far starker display of difference than had been seen two weeks ago, when Biden announced new restrictions on asylum-seeking at the southwestern border. The shift enables authorities to suspend asylum applications once unauthorized crossings reach a weekly threshold.

The border move was criticized by progressives. But Biden was prodded into making the change by polling that shows immigration is one of his weakest issues in Novembers election.

A RealClearPolitics polling average of Bidens job performance on immigration shows him being met with 60 percent disapproval and only 32 percent approval.

Biden is eager to cover up that Achilless heel with a close election looming. The harbingers are ominous for the center-left. Across the Atlantic, right-wing populists made strong gains in France and Germany during elections to the European Parliament earlier this month, powered in part by public disquiet over migration.

The sheer scale of the differences in approach between Biden and Trump is striking.

Biden, who often speaks of his ancestral Irish roots, casts immigration as a net benefit to the United States. On Tuesday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre characterized the new measure for the spouses of citizens as being driven by an impulse to protect  American families and not separate them  and this is an opportunity to do that.

Trump said last December that immigrants in the country illegally are poisoning the blood of our country  a remark that sparked a new firestorm around his rhetoric on the issue.

In an interview with Time magazine published in April, Trump said he would use law enforcement, notably the National Guard, to round up unauthorized migrants for deportation. Trump also said that he would have no problem using the military per se for that purpose.

When his interviewer, Eric Cortellessa, noted that it is illegal to deploy the U.S. military against civilians under the terms of the Posse Comitatus Act, Trump insisted, Well, these arent civilians  This is an invasion of our country. An invasion like probably no country has ever seen before.

In the same interview, Trump declined to rule out the construction of new detention camps to house migrants awaiting deportation. I would not rule out anything. But there wouldnt be that much of a need for them, because of the fact that were going to be moving them out, he said.

The mention of mass deportations and detention camps sparked outrage on the left and among civil liberties advocates.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) earlier this month published a memo outlining its plans to fight Trumps immigration efforts in the courts, in Congress and at the state and local level if he is reelected.

The ACLU memo also noted the promise by Trump adviser Stephen Miller, made in a New York Times interview last November, that Trump would unleash the vast arsenal of federal powers to implement the most spectacular migration crackdown in a second term.

The problem for liberals and immigrant-rights advocates is that polls show Trumps approach is more popular than Bidens.

A PBS News/NPR/Marist poll released Thursday found Trump with a 10-point lead when Americans were asked whether they thought the former president or Biden would best handle immigration. It was Trumps largest advantage on any of the five topics surveyed.

Those sentiments are driven, at least in part, by the sheer number of migrants during the Biden presidency.

Total encounters between unauthorized migrants and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents at the southwestern border have fallen from February through April. But last December, those encounters peaked at more than 301,000  or more than 10,000 per day. It was the highest figure ever recorded.

Among conservatives, the theory that immigration is being encouraged by Democrats in the hope of adding new voters to the rolls has become increasingly mainstream  powered in part by Trump, but not by him alone.

Thats their game plan. Get as many registered to vote as they can, Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) said Tuesday. They dont care about citizens, they dont care about these people. Theyre just looking for voters, and theyre trying do as much as they can before the next election because theyre seeing the writing on the wall.

Democrats regard such language as nativist scaremongering.

Welcoming Bidens move on spouses Tuesday, Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) called it a step closer to a more compassionate, commonsense immigration system that recognizes the contributions and sacrifices of immigrants who are building their American dream.

There is precious little common ground on immigration between the two parties  as the collapse of a bipartisan effort earlier this year showed.

Between Biden and Trump, there is almost none.

Come November, voters will pick which direction they want to go.

The Memo is a reported column by Niall Stanage.

Al Weaver contributed reporting.

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.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  A passenger on a flight headed to SFO earlier in June found a metal blade in his in-flight meal, he said on social media. Air India confirmed that a foreign object was found in the meal, and the passenger posted a picture showing the blade.

The presumed passenger in question said he ordered roasted sweet potato and fig chaat and spat out the razor blade after taking a bite.

South Bay-based Nvidia becomes most valuable company on Wall Street

Thankfully, no harm was done. Of course, the blame squarely lies with Air Indias catering service but the incident doesnt help the image I have of Air India. What if the metal piece was in the food served to a child? the man said on X.

Image from Mathures Paul

The flight was headed to SFO from Bangalore. The passenger posted the photo of the blade on June 9.

The blade came from a vegetable processing machine used by Air Indias catering partner TajSATS, Air India said. The airline said it has worked with TajSATS to prevent this from happening in the future.

Read statements from Air India and TajSATS below:

Air India: Air India confirms that a foreign object was found in the meal of a guest aboard one of our flights. After investigation, it has been identified as coming from the vegetable processing machine used at the facilities of our catering partner. We have worked with our catering partner to strengthen measures to prevent any recurrence, including more frequent checking of the processor especially after chopping of any hard vegetable. Air India has engaged with the affected customer and deeply apologizes for this experience.

TajSATS: We apologise for the unfortunate incident. We are committed to the highest standards of food safety and have strengthened our processes of comprehensive inspection and preventive maintenance of all our production equipment.

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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Nashville isnt getting any cheaper. Despite no increase in revenue, Metro Nashville City Council is planning to make sure that Nashville employees salaries keep up with the rising cost of living.

In his proposed budget, Nashville Mayor Freddie OConnell has proposed a 3.5 percent cost of living increase for Metro workers.

However, Budget and Finance Chair Councilmember Delishia Porterfield said that the mayor is on board with a four percent increase for 2025 Metro employee salaries.

Nashville coalition pushes for less police funding in 2025 Metro budget

She mentioned that in addition to merit and step raises, 95 percent of school district and city employees would get a seven percent raise next year.

We did a lot for both the employees, the youth, and the community and we did that without additional cuts to departments, without losing any employees, without raising property taxes and without sacrificing our employees in our city and making sure to prioritize them and their compensation, Porterfield said.

Porterfield also said that she is proud of the fact that despite Metros revenue remaining relatively flat, the cost of living increase will probably go through.

While a significant amount of the budget typically goes to education, this year there is an additional strain. With COVID-19 relief funding coming to an end, the mayors proposed budget includes an $18 million investment for new student textbooks. It would also allow Metro Nashville Public Schools to continue running programs originally funded by federal COVID dollars.

Porterfield was also excited about a budget item that would create a new Metro office: The Office of Youth Safety. The new office will be focused on teaching young people about conflict resolution and restorative justice to try and curb juvenile crime in Nashville.

We are literally creating things that dont exist, Porterfield said. I just think its important to lift up and say we can create the world we want to live in and we are doing that tonight with our budget.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The million dollars in funding for the new office would go towards hiring a director and four staff members to establish programs in line with the offices mission.

A quarter of the million will go to Metro Parks to expand their community center programming. The Council has until June 30 to pass a balanced budget. A citizens guide to the Mayors budget can be found 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 WKRN News 2.
This article originally was published in June 2023 and has been updated.

Local civil rights leaders say its important for everyone to commemorate Juneteenth, fully acknowledge the history it represents and work to continue pushing for equity for Black people.

 Its important because we helped build the country, said Stephanie Bush Taylor, president of the East St. Louis nonprofit, Community Development Sustainable Solutions. Taylor is also chairperson of the Illinois Juneteenth Committee.

It is not about defecting or moving back to Africa. Its about getting the rights that have been long overdue to us today, she said.

Stephanie Bush Taylor, chairperson of the Illinois Juneteenth Committee and president of the East St. Louis nonprofit, Community Development Sustainable Solutions, speaks to the crowd during the Juneteenth/618 Day Celebration in East St. Louis on Saturday, June 17.

Juneteenth commemorates the day - June 19, 1865 - when Union forces informed enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, about their freedom an announcement that came two years after President Abraham Lincolns Emancipation Proclamation.

Events marking what is now a national holiday - since 2021 - are held throughout the nation. The holiday was commemorated Saturday with events in East St. Louis, including a motorcade through the community. Organizers all over the country want everybody to know this is a holiday for everyone. Juneteenth is a part of American history. Black history is American history, including slavery.

Its not a holiday just for Blacks, said State Sen. Christopher Belt, D-Swansea. Its a holiday for every person who believes the peculiar institution of slavery was wrong and that the abolishment of slavery was the right thing to do, and that we are all created equal.

If you believe those things, thats why we celebrate it. Just like we celebrate the Fourth of July. Black people were still being enslaved July 4, 1776.

Judge Milton Wharton.

Retired Illinois Fifth District Appellate Justice Milton Wharton said the national holiday is important.

It is important, particularly in todays socio-political climate, to have a national day emphatically recognizing that human slavery existed in America and that it was abolished through courageous efforts and sacrifices on the battlefield, in our presidency and legislatures, and publicly by abolitionists, Wharton said.

Although Juneteenth (6/19/1865) has particular significance in the state of Texas, it was the 13th Amendment, ratified 12/6/1865, that officially ended slavery in America, he noted.

Rev. Joseph Brown speaks during the ceremony kicking off the East St. Louis remembrance weekend at the St. Clair County Building.

The Rev. Joseph Brown, a Catholic priest and a professor in the Department of Africana Studies at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, said the meaning of Juneteenth has changed for him over the years.

I wasnt real happy that we would be celebrating a holiday that told Black people three years after they were freed, after the Civil War was over, that they were finally emancipated. the native of East St. Louis said. But, I have changed my mind about it because of scholarship I have read.

Now, I understand. Those Black people, those Black soldiers, who brought that news to them. The people had already known that, but it wasnt official until 1866, Brown said. Our Black communication network that went on back then already knew about it. But, they couldnt act like they knew it or they wouldve been in trouble.

Former State Rep. LaToya Greenwood said she believes people of all races should commemorate, and learn more about, Juneteenth and the history that goes with it.

When you learn more, you want to do better and recognize it and celebrate it. People like to say Black history, but Black history is American history, Greenwood said. Its a teachable moment and a day where we can honor our forefathers and ancestors. We have to thank them for all they went through to make it better for us.

 We are Americans. We come in many different skin colors, but we are Americans. We are proud to say we helped build the foundation of this country.







The 2023 commemoration was also a call to action

Were here to take responsibility in our freedom, Taylor said. Were here to hold the state and the country accountable to what true equity, diversity and inclusion look like.

Another part of that call to action is for people to engage in the work of a state commission called the African Descent-Citizens Reparations Commission, said Taylor, who was appointed as a member by Gov. J.B. Pritzker.

The commission was formed so we can actually uncover what wrongs were historically placed and continued to be placed on the black community. And, how can we actually repair that, Taylor said.

Its also important to make sure that the true history of Black people in America is taught in schools and included in textbooks, so its not swept under the rug or appropriated, Taylor said.

She noted that Pritzker signed legislation in 2023 designed to prevent book bans in publicly funded libraries.

Others have money, history, and property that they leave for their children, Taylor said.  And with our history being usurped, hidden and overlooked, we are not getting those same opportunities. We need our children to know they are equally vested in this country.

 They need equal rights and opportunity so they know they are contributors, not just a worker or somebodys assistant in this place called United States of America.

People must apply consistent pressure on the government to fight systemic racism, she said.

Systemic racism runs like a machine. From what we see on the news, from what weve gotten out of our history books, all of it tells us its not for you, Taylor said. ... After a while you check out because youre wondering whens a conversation, when is love, when is equity going to be turning its face to you.

When is Lady Liberty gonna take its blinders off and really take a look at the fact we need equity. Were too busy trying to live and fight our way into a society that has historically marginalized us or told us we were less then.

Illinois State Senator Christopher Belt, Cahokia.

The c ontributions of Black Americans

Belt also noted that the contributions of Black people have left an indelible mark on the history of America.

In response to a question, he said he pledges allegiance to the American flag just like everyone else.

We have to keep hope alive that one day, it will mean one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all, he said.  We are not there yet. You can see it in all of the discriminatory practices we have to deal with day in and day out. We gotta believe we are marching toward what the Pledge of Allegiance says.
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexico will spend responsibly and control the fiscal deficit next year without raising taxes, President-Elect Claudia Sheinbaum said on Wednesday, while defending a judicial overhaul that has spooked markets since her party secured a landslide victory in general elections.

"We are preparing a very responsible budget," Sheinbaum told business people at an event in Mexico City. "Our objective is that the deficit in 2025 will be a maximum of 3.5% of GDP, this year it will be closing over 5%."

The new goal would outpace that of the government of outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador which had already set a goal for a deficit at around 3% of GDP for next year, as measured by the public sector borrowing requirements (PSBR), according to a budget pre-criteria published in March.

Sheinbaum said her administration would look to boost tax take via other avenues, such as digitalizing customs and the internal revenue service.

Mexico's budget deficit this year is the highest rate since the 1980s as Lopez Obrador splurged on social spending and to complete major infrastructure works such as a new refinery and tourist train.

Sheinbaum defended again a major judicial reform, proposed earlier this year by Lopez Obrador, which would look to elect judges - including the Supreme Court - by popular vote. The president-elect said the judicial reform would not represent a concentration of power or a shift towards authoritarianism.

The increasing likelihood that a version of this reform could be passed when the newly elected legislature takes office in September has scared markets, with the peso down around 8.5% since the June 2 election.

Some investors fear the overhaul could allow the political capture of the judiciary and remove vital checks and balances over the president and ruling party.

(Reporting by Raul Cortes; Writing by Stephen Eisenhammer; Editing by Anthony Esposito and Josie Kao)
MOSCOW, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Russia has not ruled out the possibility of downgrading its diplomatic relations with the United States in response to the confiscation of Russian assets, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov was quoted by TASS news agency as saying on Wednesday.

Ryabkov explained that Russia's reaction to U.S. actions could include countermeasures against Western assets in Russia, asymmetrical responses of other kinds, and the reduction of diplomatic relations.

"Depending on the degree of their provocations, we will calibrate our responses accordingly," Ryabkov noted.

Ryabkov underscored that Russia would determine its response based on the extent of the challenges posed by the United States.

"I do not exclude any options, but I also do not anticipate any specific ones," Ryabkov added. "In any case, all of this is a matter of a separate political decision, which will be made at a very high level in Moscow." 
A Miami-Dade man, 83, believes his father was among the last Americans born into slavery

Wilbur Bell, 83, believes he is a living son of slavery in America.

Family history has Bells father, Cornelius, born in Georgia on May 18, 1865. That was weeks after the end of the U.S. Civil War but months before the 13th Amendment abolished slavery nationwide.

Bell said the possibility of his father being born into slavery had never come up until decades after his death in 1961. Bells parents separated when he was 3, and he only saw his father during occasional visits. It was only after looking at his fathers obituary years later that Bell realized he was possibly only one generation removed from a family members enslavement.

I had his obituary. I was looking at the dates on it, he said. Thats when I put it together.

Bells potential direct connection to U.S. slavery remained mostly a family historical footnote until this weekend, when CNN aired a story about the lifelong Perrine residents quest to confirm his fathers birth in the waning days of legalized enslavement in the United States. Last month, Bell and his daughter traveled to Homerville, Georgia, for some in-person genealogical research that yielded some emotional moments but no definitive answers.

The national coverage brought accolades for Bell, a great-grandfather who already had a high profile in his South Miami-Dade community. Miami-Dade named a county park after Bell, a long-serving elected member of the Redland Community Council and a community activist, in 2021. On Tuesday, he received a county proclamation honoring him and his family.

Ive had a good life, Bell said in an interview after the ceremony. Ive never been hungry. Ive always had a clean place to sleep.

A comfortable life in Perrine after a difficult start

When Bell was born, his mother was 36 and his father was 75.

Bell described his father as abusive, which led his mother to move him and his siblings from Lake City, Florida, to Perrine when he was 3. They didnt have much money, and Bell and his brother took jobs riding a garbage truck. Bell was 10, earning $11 a week.

In Dade Countys segregated school system, Bell said he was used to getting the white schools discarded textbooks. He said he didnt hold a new textbook in his hand until geometry class in 10th grade.

After attending Florida A&M University in Tallahassee for two years, Bell joined the Air Force and was stationed in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War.

Wilbur Bell addresses the audience at the Miami-Dade County Commission on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, after receiving a proclamation honoring his family history. The presentation followed a CNN segment on Bells quest to document that his father was born into slavery in 1865 in Georgia. Behind Bell, from left to right, are County Commissioners Marleine Bastien, Kionne McGhee and Oliver Gilbert, and the countys mayor, Daniella Levine Cava.

He also got started in what would be a lifetime practice of buying real estate, building a duplex on a lot he bought in Perrine. His family lived in one side, and Bell rented out the other. In 1969, while stationed at the Homestead Air Force Base, he used his savings to launch Bells Short Stop in Perrine, a convenience store that started with a cigar box for a cash register and is still open 55 years later.

He ran for county mayor in 2011, appearing on the ballot as Wilbur Short Stop Bell. While that race didnt work out, hes held his seat on the Redland council since the 1990s. He helped found the Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade, an economic-development organization, after Hurricane Andrew devastated the area in 1992.

A civics advocate, Bell recited the preamble of the U.S. Constitution from memory during an interview Tuesday and recalled visiting a high school recently and asking the students if anyone there knew it, too. One boy did, saying his father taught him the words.

I went into my pocket, and I came up with a $50 bill and handed it to him, Bell said. I told him: You earned it.

On CNN, Wilbur Bell explores his familys history with slavery

Hours after the CNN story first aired Saturday morning, Bell received a congratulatory text from Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. The county commissioner representing Perrine, Kionne McGhee, had Levine Cava declare June 18 Cornelius Bell Family Day and presented Bell with a proclamation before the boards regular meeting started Tuesday morning.

In our midst is a young man whose father  whose father  was born before slavery was abolished, McGhee told the audience.

The proclamation came a day before Miami-Dade offices will close for the countys fourth annual celebration of Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. The holidays roots trace back to June 19, 1865, when U.S. troops led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed on the shores of Texas and began enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln two years earlier.

A military decree, the proclamation declared enslaved people in Confederate territory as free but left in place slavery in Union states. Slavery was only fully banned once the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified in December 1865 by Georgia, the last state needed to make it the law of the land.

The Emancipation Proclamation would have freed the Bell family in theory once it was issued, but the presence of Union troops would likely have been needed to actually end their enslavement, said Erin Stewart Mauldin, an associate history professor specializing in Southern history at the University of South Florida.

The end of slavery, she said, came scattershot throughout the South, even for nearby cities.

It really depended on where you were, she said. Tampa was freed a year before Tallahassee was.

Homerville sits in Clinch County in southern Georgia, about 20 miles from the Florida line. Given Union dominance throughout much of Florida and Georgia by the start of 1865, Mauldin said there was a good chance that slavery had ended in that part of the state by May of that year.

Even so, Mauldin said the historical records of Clinch County suggest slavery may have endured there later than elsewhere in Georgia in the weeks after wars end. Records show the majority of Clinch men joined the Confederate Army and that the county took in Southerners fleeing Union-occupied territory.

With no battles fought in that area, Union troops may not have been there by May 1865 to enforce emancipation. And while Congress authorized federal offices to assist enslaved people in March of that year, there was no Freedmens Bureau nearby to hasten compliance with the end of slavery in Georgia, she said.

The end of the war did not necessarily mean the beginning of freedom, especially in isolated places like Clinch County, Mauldin wrote in an email. The use of violence to force labor continued, as did the control of freedpeoples movement by former enslavers and the lack of wages or other remuneration for work. It took the Constitutional Amendment to begin the process of making emancipation permanent and assured.

Christopher Lawton, a Georgia Tech history professor, said the timing of when Bells father was born likely wouldnt have mattered for the kind of upbringing he experienced in post-war Georgia. Even as a toddler several years after the war, every single person he knew would have been through the life experience of enslavement, Lawton said. It would have been a childhood defined by slavery.

At Tuesdays ceremony, elected officials pointed to Bells family history as a jarring reminder of just how recently enslavement was a part of American life  at a time when Floridas reworking of classroom instruction on slavery has led to claims that the state is minimizing the horrors of enslavement.

History is meant to teach us, Commission Chair Oliver Gilbert said. But for it to teach us, we have to study it. And not just the parts that we like.

This article was updated with additional comments from Erin Stewart Mauldin, a University of South Florida associate professor of history.
Pro-Palestine protesters have targeted an awards ceremony at the University of Oxford honouring notable figures including Sir Michael Palin.

Oxford Action for Palestine (OA4P), a grassroots protest group, launched a demonstration outside the Radcliffe Camera library on Wednesday against figures being commended in this years Encaenia ceremony.

The annual event, considered one of the most illustrious occasions in the Oxford calendar, awards honorary degrees to distinguished alumni and other notable figures.

Campaigners said they were targeting Warren East and Sir Demis Hassabis as they claimed they were complicit in Gaza genocide because of their connections to companies said to have had dealings with Israel.

Sir Michael Palin and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala make their way in a procession towards the Sheldonian Theatre ahead of receiving honorary degrees at the annual Encaenia ceremony at Oxford University - Andrew Matthews/PA

Mr East is the former chief executive of Rolls-Royce and British software company Arm Holdings. Sir Demis is a British computer scientist and co-founder of AI firm DeepMind. The company was bought by Google for 400 million in 2014 and has become the cornerstone of the search giants AI operations.

OA4P members waved posters stating Google Cloud rains blood and Rolls-Royce kills kids.

An OA4P spokesman said both Rolls-Royce and Google were listed on the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) list of companies accused of being complicit in Israeli genocide, occupation, and apartheid.

BDS, a pressure group launched in 2005, produces a list of Israeli companies and those aligned with the state for pro-Palestine supporters to boycott.

The groups website links to reports alleging that Rolls-Royce has designed parts of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, a stealth combat jet used by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).

The BDS movement has also called for action against Google, claiming it provides cloud technology to the Israeli government and military.

Mr West and Sir Demis, who was knighted in the latest Kings honours for services to AI, were among six figures awarded honorary Oxford degrees at the ceremony.

The other four were not accused of being complicit in the conflict in the Middle East.

They included Sir Michael, the Monty Python star and travel show host; Anoushka Shankar, a musician and daughter of sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar; Prof Salim Yusuf, a renowned Canadian cardiologist and epidemiologist; and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist and the seventh director general of the World Trade Organization.

A spokesman for Oxford University said there was no disruption inside the Sheldonian Theatre, where the ceremony went ahead as planned. However, they said the ceremonial procession was forced to take an alternative route to avoid protesters.

Meaning festival or renewal in Latin, the Oxford Encaenia is the surviving part of a more extensive ceremony called The Act which used to include musical works and satirical speeches.

Since 1760 it has seen academics, heads of colleges and university dignitaries parade through central Oxford in full academic dress.

Recent honorees include Hillary Clinton, the former US secretary of state, Martin Scorcese, an American film director and Sir Simon Schama, a British historian.

Mounting student political activism

The latest protest in Oxford comes amid mounting political activism across British campuses, partially in response to the Israel-Gaza war.

Oxford was forced to cancel exams last week after pro-Palestinian protesters stormed a building on campus.

The university called off end-of-year exams for 153 second-year chemistry students, as six demonstrators stormed the Exams Schools complex. Thames Valley Police attended the scene but no arrests were made.

More than a dozen encampments are currently in place across UK campuses, including at the universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Manchester, Bristol and University College London.

The London School of Economics became the first university to evict a pro-Palestine sit-in earlier this week after obtaining a court order. Demonstrators were ordered to dismantle their tents and leave the Marshall Building on Monday after a month of occupation.

A Rolls-Royce spokesman said: Rolls-Royce supports the UK Government and its allies in providing power solutions for defence purposes. In doing so, we abide by all applicable export control and sanctions laws. In the UK, those regulations demand that exports are considered against a range of criteria, including relevant international law.

Google was approached for comment.

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You might see nurses with ice cream at this Tacoma hospital on Juneteenth. Heres why

If youre driving by St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma on Wednesday, you might see nurses standing outside with ice cream and wonder whats going on.

Nurses with the Washington State Nurses Association plan to commemorate the federal Juneteenth holiday by taking action at the hospital, 1717 S. J St., from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., according to a Monday news release. Theyll pass out free frozen treats to colleagues and urge them to support a petition that asks the hospital to add Juneteenth to their contracts as a paid holiday.

Juneteenth has been a federal and state-recognized holiday for three years now  St. Joseph Medical Center needs to get with the times, one nurse who signed the petition said in part, according to the news release. Its just the beginning of the critical antiracist work that need to be done.

In addition to Juneteenth, the hospital does not acknowledge Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Veterans Day or or Indigenous Peoples Day, according to the news release.

The News Tribune reached out to St. Joseph Medical Center, which is part of Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH), for comment.

Toby Sutton, VMFHs chief human resources officer, replied that the organization welcomes dialogues with employees and wants to acknowledge their concerns. While it tries to consider holiday requests, being a medical organization means caring for the community around the clock, Sutton wrote. That restricts its ability to pare down services or close.

VMFH offers employees robust personal time off, so they can pick which holidays theyd like to celebrate away from work, Sutton said.

We also take the opportunity to recognize historic days like Juneteenth by learning more, openly talking about key issues that persist today and celebrating the progress that has been made, the statement continued. We are a proud participant of Juneteenth community events each year.

The nurses petition spells out another demand: keeping the Racial Justice Task Force at St. Joseph a nurse-centered effort, per the Washington State Nurses Associations news release. The nurses count the task force as a major victory stemming from their last contract, although they fear that its future is on shaky ground.

The hospital is pursuing an upper management-led corporate initiative, the state nurses association wrote. The nurses believe that an executive-run effort would be weaker than the existing task force.

While nurses welcome all efforts to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion, they feel bedside providers are among the ones on the frontlines of racial incidents by patients and should play a key role, according to the news release. They also want Virginia Mason Franciscan Health to back their stand on inclusion with action.

Sutton replied that the nurses task force will stay in place through at least Oct. 31, and that the Belonging and Unity Committee being formed is in addition to the current Task Force with the goal of hospital-wide participation.

After the nurses gather signatures for the petition, it will be submitted to Virginia Mason Franciscan Healths CEO, Ketul J. Patel, who also serves as the president of the hospitals parent company.
BRAINERD  Jourdaine Wedll sat in the back of his van, selling tea on a rainy day at the Brainerd farmer's market.

Bags of wild rice and a braid of sweet grass, even coffee roasted by Winona LaDuke's company, were also laid out on the table under his tent.

After years of drought, he welcomes the rain.

"[The drought] was really hard on my pumpkins," said Wedll, who founded Deer Trail Teas outside Garrison. "I used to get three or four [pumpkins] on each plant. I couldn't even get one the last three years."

At least three seasons of dry weather left Minnesota's farm lands and forest foragers frustrated. Now, halfway through a moist June, crop growers and produce farmers are in a much different position.

A few stalls down, 15-year-old Christian Thorson told stories about the borderline pernicious quality of the heavy early-summer rainfall.

"Our asparagus kind of got flooded out. Some of our tomato plants did, too," said Christian, who works for family-owned Thorson's Farm Fresh Produce in central Minnesota. "But we've got a lot of stuff starting to blossom again."

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Emilia Gonzalez Avalos hails, originally, from Mexico City, but shes made a life for herself in Minnesota, including 11 years as executive director of Unidos MN, a nonprofit that organizes Latinos from its Lake Street offices in Minneapolis. After resolving a residency issue, the four-hour Aeromexico flight she took from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport to visit family she hadnt seen in decades was incredibly personal to me, she said.

Also incredibly personal to her is the prospect of losing that airline access.

The U.S. Department of Transportation gave its blessing eight years ago to an airline partnership that makes room for Delta Air Lines at Aeromexico terminals in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara. The same joint cooperation agreement allows Aeromexico to coordinate fleets and schedules while gaining a footprint at all of Deltas major passenger hubs, including MSP, New York, Atlanta and beyond. In April, they added Bostons Logan Airport.

In January, the DOT signaled that it will soon rescind its anti-trust permission for whats been billed as the largest joint venture between a Mexican and U.S. airline. Federal regulators have accused the Mexican government of backsliding on promises to maintain cargo slots for U.S. carriers at Benito Juarez International Airport outside Mexico City, and Delta officials have maintained that theyre caught in the middle, if not being used as leverage, unjustly punished for a trade dispute that has nothing to do with their passengers.

More than 350,000 passengers

The prospect of losing easy access between the Twin Cities and major destinations in Mexico has alarmed Minnesotas Mexican-American community, business advocates and lawmakers from both major parties. More than 350,000 passengers traveled through MSP on Delta/Aeromexico trips last year, including more than 86,000 passengers who flew direct between MSP and Benito Juarez International, according to Delta.

Eliminating the joint venture threatens the viability of some two-dozen airline routes between the two countries. Mexico is the nations largest trading partner, and Minnesotas second-largest trading partner. Since 2016, the joint cooperation agreement has facilitated trips for some 45 million passengers.

Its about real people with real ties who migrated to Minnesota, Gonzalez Avalos said. Theres a perception that the dispute only centers (on) businesses and business practices, and not actual people whose lives will be interrupted. This flight is four hours. I wake up early, get the kids ready, and Im having lunch with my relatives at the local market in Mexico City. The alternative is at least eight hours, and it can get up to 12 hours, with layovers. I wouldnt be traveling once a year with kids and my elderly mother if this changes. It would be just so hard.

A spokesman for the DOT last week said he could not comment on the legal process except to say nothing has been finalized and no set timeline for implementation has been disclosed.

Elected MN officials weigh in

Delta, which has announced that it will pursue legal action if the DOT terminates the venture, has found growing support from elected officials in Minnesota, including Gov. Tim Walz, both U.S. senators, the entire congressional delegation, and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey.

Kurt Zellers, a former Minnesota House speaker and Republican lawmaker, has repeatedly reached out to the U.S. Department of Transportation on behalf of the Minnesota Business Partnership, which he runs. Agricultural companies in Minnesota have special reason to be wary, he said.

Just this week I sent a longer letter to (Transportation) Secretary (Pete) Buttigieg, said Zellers on Friday. Ive heard from a number of our members  especially the new NAFTA members  this would be very bad for our business. If youre going to be doing a regular round of business down there, you want to have access to those routes.

Carter sounded a similar tune in a letter to the DOT in April.

Mexico is our states second-largest trade partner, actively supporting 91,000 jobs and $2.8 billion in revenue, wrote the mayor. Our office is united with local and state leaders in wanting to prevent negative repercussions from the potential loss of the Delta-Aeromexico partnership.

Two St. Paul-area state representatives  Rep. Maria Isa Perez-Vega and Rep. Samakab Hussein, both DFLers  met with the Mexican Consulate in St. Paul last month to discuss the matter and have written separate op-eds, which have appeared in Twin Cities media.

In response to infractions of the U.S.-Mexico air services agreement by the government of Mexico, the DOT is taking the unprecedented step of retaliating against U.S. consumers, jobs, air service and the strength of our economy by potentially terminating the (joint cooperation agreement), wrote Perez-Vega, in an op-ed published in the Minnesota Daily in April. The DOT should not remove the chalks on this decision without understanding the full scope of the ramifications.

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MOBILE, Ala. (WKRG)  A Mobile teenager will represent Alabama in the 67th Distinguished Young Women National Finals next week.

According to a DYW news release, the national finals will take place from June 27 through June 29 at the Mobile Civic Center.

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DeAsia Jones is one of 50 representatives competing for $155,000 in cash scholarships and to become the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2024.

Jones was selected as the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama and began preparing for five categories of evaluation: scholastics, interview, fitness, talent and self-expression.

She is a 2024 graduate of Faith Academy, and she is the daughter of Tiffany and Leroy Jones.

She arrived Tuesday night in Mobile, where the competition is being held, with all 50 representatives. They will be in Mobile for two weeks.

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During that time, Jones will participate in team-building activities, community service projects, interact with the Gulf Coast community and prepare for the three-night scholarship program through several hours of rehearsal.

We are excited to welcome the 50 outstanding state representatives to Mobile for the 67th annual National Finals of Distinguished Young Women, Distinguished Young Women Executive Director Carole Hegwood said. These young women are accomplished, talented, intelligent, and have exciting futures ahead of them.

The winner of Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2024 will spend the next year traveling the country to promote the programs initiative to Be Your Best Self.

The outreach program combats issues such as childhood obesity, high school dropout rates and encourages more people to volunteer in their communities.

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The outreach program consists of five elements  Be Healthy, Be Involved, Be Studious, Be Ambitious, and Be Responsible, a news release from Distinguished Young Women said.

Jones will be looking to be the second Alabamian in a row to win the award after Carrington Hodge became the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2024.

Definitely an overwhelming but joyful sense of emotions, Jones told News 5. Im so excited to be here in my hometown representing not only Mobile but also Alabama and hopefully bringing home the title for the second year in a row.

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.
A Republican state lawmaker from Vermont confessed to pouring water into the bag of a Democratic colleague for months on end.

Video footage captured Republican Mary Ann Morrissey dumping cups of water into Democratic state Rep. Jim Carrolls tote bag, which was hanging on a coat rack, on multiple occasions. Two videos, showing separate incidents in March, were first released by the Vermont outlet Seven Days.

I have been very reluctant to disclose the video because I believe it will deeply embarrass Representative Morrissey, Carroll issued a statement to the outlet. However, it has become clear to me that the media are aware of the details of Representative Morrisseys behavior, and likely will continue to report on that behavior in the near future, he wrote.

Unsure of the source of the water, Carroll told the outlet that he set up a $23 spy camera behind a scarf aimed at the coat rack, which hangs in the hallway outside of his committee room. The camera captured the watershed moment - that had been going on for five months.

For five months, I went through this... It was torment, theres no doubt about it, Carroll said.

Morrissey apologized to Carroll on June 17 on the House floor in front of their colleagues.

I am truly ashamed for my actions, the Republican legislator said.

I have given my sincere apology to Jim directly and publicly and will be working towards resolution and restoration through our legislative process. It was conduct most unbecoming of my position as a representative and as a human being and is not reflective of my 28 years of service and civility, she said.

Carroll told the Associated Press he first noticed his bag becoming soaked a few times a week back in January and February. Carroll was arrested in February for driving under the influence.

But when he returned from rehab, he told the Associated Press that his bag was wet daily: It was relentless.

After capturing the damning footage, Carroll said he showed the evidence to House Speaker Jill Krowinski, who then approached Morrissey.

This is a truly disturbing situation that is at odds with our legislative practices, Krowinski told the outlet in a statement.

The integrity and decorum of our legislative proceedings and of legislators are of paramount importance, and any actions or behaviors that compromise these values will be thoroughly investigated and addressed, the legislator said.
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  On Tuesday, June 18, a Colorado District Court sentenced the Club Q shooter to 190 years, plus 55 life terms after the shooter entered a guilty plea to federal hate crimes and gun charges.

Local Colorado Springs leaders responded on Tuesday, expressing relief at the next step in the search for justice, but remorse that the loss will forever be felt in this community.

Mayor Yemi Mobolade responded on social media, thanking the judicial officials who took the steps to ensure justice is served.

The mayor gave his heartfelt thanks to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Colorado for bringing further justice for the victims of the Club Q shooting and their families, saying, It is important that we take a strong stance against hate. And thats what happened in the courtroom today.

RELATED STORY: Club Q shooter avoids death penalty, sentenced to additional 55 life terms

Mayor Mobolade went on to say that while the community is still healing from the unnecessary act of violence that took place on Nov. 19, 2022, Colorado Springs is a resilient community.

I pray with todays sentencing, we take another step towards healing, he said. And may we always remember Daniel Aston, Kelly Loving, Ashley Paugh, Derrick Rump, and Raymond Green Vance.

Photos courtesy of the victims families

The 4th Judicial District Attorneys (DA) Office also responded, with strong words from DA Michael Allen, who prosecuted the shooter on the state level.

There are moments that change us, and as we move forward, we know well never be the same, said DA Allen. The instant this shooter decided to carry out a pre-meditated, hate-fueled attack and kill multiple, innocent people at a space created as a safe haven for members of the LGBTQ+ community in Colorado Springs was one of those moments.

While Allen praised the sentence and what it represents in the search for justice, he still argues that no amount of punishment for the shooter will ever heal the wound inflicted on the Colorado Springs community and the loved ones of the victims.

The federal sentence, which adds significant time to the sentence the defendant is already serving in connection to the state case, does not do enough, said Allen. The law cannot fully repair the loss to our city and community suffered on November 19, 2022. We can, though, stand against hate. Hate directed towards marginalized communities will not be tolerated and thats what the combined sentences tell the world. Together, weve held the shooter fully accountable under the law for the evil he brought with him into Club Q.

It is the policy of FOX21 News to name the suspect of a mass shooting incident once and to show their image once. FOX21 News will refrain from doing so after the first instance, so as not to glorify their actions. Any articles on our website from outside sources may not reflect this policy.

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(The Hill)  Most Americans favor diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, according to a new poll.

The poll, from The Washington Post and Ipsos, found that 61 percent of Americans think it is a good thing for companies to take up DEI programs, which are often aimed at promoting fairness and equality in institutions. Thirty-four percent of respondents said it is a bad thing for companies to take up DEI programs.

DEI programs have become a hot-button issue for American conservatives, with congressional Republicans introducing a bill to ban them and their funding in the federal government last week. Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), who introduced the bill, said DEI has no place in our federal government or anywhere else in our society.

New Boeing whistleblower comes forward hours before CEOs Senate testimony

Im proud to introduce this legislation, which would root out DEI from our federal bureaucracy by eliminating such programs and stripping funding for DEI policies anywhere it exists, Vance continued in his statement. Americans tax dollars should not be co-opted to spread this radical and divisive ideology  this bill would ensure they are not.

The Washington Post-Ipsos poll also asked about companies taking up programs to hire more employees from groups that are underrepresented in their workforce, such as racial and ethnic minorities and people with disabilities and to promote equity in the workplace, to which 69 percent said was a good thing. Twenty-six percent of Americans in the same poll said companies going ahead with those programs is a bad thing.

Back in March, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) called on the Justice Department to investigate the legality of states banning DEI programs at colleges and universities. In right-leaning states like Florida and Texas, DEI has been banned at public colleges.

The Washington Post and Ipsos poll was conducted from April 9-16, with a sample of 1,029 people and a margin of sampling error of 3.2 percentage points. The questions about approval of DEI programs and hiring employees from underrepresented groups both featured half-samples of the original sample of 1,029 people including 512 to 517 people, with an error margin of plus or minus 4.5 percentage points, according to a Post article on the poll.

This story was updated at 5:26 p.m.

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.
TOKYO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Japan logged a trade deficit of 1.22 trillion yen (about 7.7 billion U.S. dollars) in May, said a government report on Wednesday.

Exports expanded 13.5 percent year-on-year while imports grew 9.5 percent, preliminary data from the Ministry of Finance showed. 
Motorcyclist killed, 2 others hurt after crash on I-93 in New Hampshire

A New York man has died following a crash involving three motorcycles on Interstate 93 in New Hampshire over the weekend, state police said.

At approximately 4:41 p.m. Saturday, troopers received a report of a crash on I-93 southbound near mile marker 87 in Campton.

When troopers arrived, they found a group of three injured motorcyclists, along with three motorcycles resting on their sides.

According to witnesses and evidence obtained at the scene, a gust of wind caused one of the motorcyclists to go off the paved portion of the road onto gravel, before returning to the road and losing control, state police said.

As the motorcycle crashed onto its side, the other two motorcyclists moved to the right and laid down their motorcycles to avoid a collision.

The motorcyclist that initially went off the road was taken to Concord Hospital with severe injuries and a second motorcyclist was taken by ambulance to Speare Hospital with minor injuries, state police said. Their conditions were not known on Wednesday.

A third motorcyclist, identified as Anthony Caton, 41, of Round Lake, New York, was taken by ambulance to Speare Hospital and later flown to Dartmouth Hospital, where he later died, state police said.

Campton Police and Campton-Thornton Fire Rescue, Waterville Valley Fire Department, and Plymouth Fire-Rescue assisted state police. Authorities closed one highway lane for approximately three hours as crews worked at the scene.

The crash remains under investigation.

Anyone with information for investigators is urged to contact Trooper Jacob Thomas at 603-369-2393 or Jacob.M.Thomas@DOS.NH.GOV.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Mountaineer Cadet Officer Leadership School teaches JROTC members how they can better serve their communities

ATHENS, WV (WVNS)  Concord University hosted a weeklong JROTC leadership school to prepare high schoolers to better serve their communities.

ROTC grad commissioned in mothers ICU room before her passing on Mothers Day

JROTC programs from Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, and Tennessee gathered at Concord University for Mountaineer Cadet Officer Leadership School during the week of June 18, 2024.

These programs attended academic classes, took part drill sequences, participated in a rope bridge competition, and attended a hands-on topography class.

Group Commander Fate Williams said, Coming into this camp, I did not have a good idea of what leadership was. I did not have an idea what fellowship was, but getting into this camp really makes you break out of your shell to work with other people and you get to see how other people communicate  how other people work.

Master Sergeant Doug Burhams told 59News, That is important for us to make our world a little bit better by having these young people going out and leading each other and learning how to be better citizens and getting out in the work force and being better people for doing that.

Burhams also spoke about what makes these cadets exceptional. They could have done anything they wanted to do for the rest of the summer, but they chose to be here, said Burhams. They chose to come here and learn about leadership and learn how to be better citizens and to help their units when they go back.

Local JROTCs come together for fitness and fun

The leadership school ends on June 23, 2024 at 10 A.M. with a parade at Callaghan Stadium on the Concord University campus.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
MPD: Trio connected to stolen Chevy used in attempted car break-ins

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  After Memphis Police managed to connect a stolen vehicle to car break-ins in church parking lots, they say that the carjacking suspect was not the only person occupying the hijacked vehicle.

On June 16 at approximately 9:31 a.m., police say a White male occupying a maroon Chevrolet Silverado broke into a vehicle in the parking lot of Second Baptist Church at 4680 Walnut Grove Road.

The suspect damaged the steering column and the ignition of the vehicle before fleeing the scene in the Silverado after being confronted.

Police say the same vehicle and suspect were seen at Bellevue Baptist Church attempting to steal another vehicle that morning.

The suspect has been described as a White male wearing a hoodie driving a maroon Silverado, which was previously reported stolen and has since been recovered.

6 teens arrested in gang-related vehicle burglary ring

Surveillance video at a local business showed a White female and Black male purchasing items while occupying the stolen maroon Silverado at the time.

Investigators are working to identify all suspects who had possession of the stolen vehicle.

As of now, no arrests have been made, but police say this is an ongoing investigation.

If you have any information regarding this incident, call Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

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.
On June 10, Memphis-Shelby County Schools superintendent Marie Feagins sent out an email to all district staff detailing a proposal to cut 1,100 positions, 41% of which were vacant.

The decision to cut those jobs, however, must be approved by the MSCS board according to the districts general counsel, Justin Bailey.

The board will make that determination, as to what final positions are eliminated, he said during a work session Tuesday.

Why the district has sent out notices

The discussion came less than 24 hours after MSCS sent out emails to employees notifying them that their positions could be eliminated, which caused frustration and confusion. Even before this, some staffers had been informed their jobs could be cut. But on June 11, the board passed a resolution pausing any additional layoffs until they got more details about the proposed cuts; and many district staffers were under the impression more notices about job cuts wouldnt go out until the resolution was rescinded.

MSCS, however, was required to provide advance notice about potential job cuts to affected employees and the state, due to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act. So, it continued to send out the notices. Bailey noted this requirement amid the resolutions passage on June 11, and he reiterated it during the work session on Tuesday.

Justin Bailey has been selected to lead the Office of General Counsel at MSCS.

But he also made it clear that the letters sent to employees about job cuts were not official letters of termination. They were notices informing staffers that their jobs would be eliminated if Feagins proposal was accepted by board members.

Termination notice will come from the board, Bailey said, After the board votes on the final dismissals.

Board members have strongly criticized Feagins for the lack of communication they initially received about the proposed cuts and the way she has implemented the plan, which is in part why they passed the resolution. But they have also expressed support for the proposed changes, said they could be necessary, and maintained that they stand by Feagins.

The board is expected to vote on the proposed job cuts, as well as its fiscal year 2025 proposed budget, this month. The fiscal year ends June 30, which is the same day employees affected by job cuts would have their last day of work  if the board approves Feagins restructuring proposal.

Why cut jobs?

The purpose of the proposed cuts is to move personnel and resources away from the central office and closer to the classroom.

Feagins has maintained that the job cuts are necessary and cited the slew of challenges MSCS is facing.

In the 2022-23 academic year, 78% of the districts students werent scoring proficiently on the English Language Arts section of the Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program tests. Another 83% werent scoring proficiently on the math section. The dropout rate was nearly 15%, the truancy rate was 41%.

More: MSCS has a plan to help 7,800 more kids participate in sports, clubs, tutoring. Here's how

School district news: MSCS third, fourth grade TCAP reading scores increase. What it means for students

There are also more than 1,000 school-based vacancies that need to be filled, and the hope has been to move people whose jobs could be eliminated into many of these roles. A lot of them have received and accepted offers for other positions

During a budget community engagement meeting on June 13, Feagins noted that the district had made 423 offers and received 171 acceptances and that the more than 200 other impacted staffers would have the opportunity to apply for vacant positions within the district.

John Klyce covers education and children's issues for The Commercial Appeal. You can reach him at John.klyce@commercialappeal.com.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: MSCS school board must OK Superintendent Feagins' proposed job cuts
Murder trial to stay in Boone County after concerns over racist Facebook comments

John Gentry, 37, appears in court at the Boone County Justice Center in Burlington, Ky. A judge ordered that Gentry's capital murder trial will remain in Boone County after his lawyers expressed worries about racist comments about the case on Facebook.

John Gentrys murder trial will remain in Boone County, per a judges order, despite his lawyers worries that Facebook comments about the case, including calls for Gentry to be lynched, demonstrate county-wide prejudice.

Circuit Court Judge Richard Brueggemann denied Gentrys request to move the trial to another county in an order filed last week.

Gentry, 37, is facing numerous charges, including murder, in connection with the shooting death of his ex-girlfriend, Tiffany Kidwell. His trial is expected to begin July 22.

Seating an unbiased jury would be very difficult, researcher finds

His lawyers argued in court filings that numerous racist responses to a Boone County Sheriffs Office social media post show that Gentry  a Black man accused of gunning down a white woman in front of their two children  wont be able to get a fair trial.

While the post has since been removed, Brueggemann OKed a poll of the countys population to gauge public opinion of the case ahead of trial, which was carried out by a market research and polling company that surveyed 399 Boone County residents.

Only 36 residents indicated they knew of Gentrys case and more than half of those said they lean toward Gentry being guilty. Roughly 71% of the jury-eligible respondents were moderately or very negative toward Black people and the racial equity movement.

Mykol Hamilton, a researcher who prepared a report on the survey, wrote that it would be at best very difficult to seat an unbiased jury in Boone County in the murder trial of John Gentry.

However, Hamilton went on to say there was no evidence of a strong guilty bias against Gentry based on the survey results.

Brueggemann ultimately found that moving the case from Boone County would be inappropriate.

The judge said voir dire  a process of prospective jurors answering questions to gauge their impartiality  is the best way to sniff out whether pretrial publicity has tainted the community.

What is John Gentry accused of?

In October 2020, Gentry tailed 32-year-old Kidwell to her sisters house in Walton and confronted Kidwell about seeing his children, investigators said.

Kidwell had an active domestic violence protection order against Gentry and tried to call 911 when Gentry allegedly shot her with a handgun. When deputies reached the home a short time later, Kidwell was found dead inside her vehicle parked in the driveway.

Gentry later told detectives that he shot Kidwell until it was quiet, believing hed emptied the guns magazine, according to a criminal citation. Prosecutors said an autopsy showed she suffered 10 gunshot wounds.

Also shot was Gentrys then-3-year-old son, who was sitting in the backseat of his mothers vehicle. He was struck in the abdomen and flown to Cincinnati Childrens Hospital Medical Center, where the child underwent surgery.

The couples then-6-year-old son was also present for his mother's killing but emerged unharmed. Video footage shows the couples older son running inside to look for help as his mother is shot to death, according to court documents.

Prosecutors said they plan to present evidence that the killing culminated from Gentrys stalking of Kidwell, which was at least part of the reason Kidwell sought a protection order.

Prosecutors signaled their intent in January 2022 to pursue the death penalty, citing Gentrys alleged killing of Kidwell while she had a domestic violence order in place as aggravating circumstances.

However, prosecutors agreed to take the death penalty off the table in exchange for the couples children not being called to testify at trial. If convicted, Gentry is still facing sentences of life without parole or 25 years to life.

Court records show Gentry is expected to appear in court on Thursday.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: John Gentry trial to remain in Boone County after concerns over bias
Jilly Todaro, 43, disappeared in 2020

NAMUS.GOV; Cambria County Sheriff's Office Jilly Todaro (left) and Brian Giles

Human remains found on the former property of a Pennsylvania man convicted of murdering his wife have now been identified as his missing ex-girlfriend, who disappeared in 2020.

The remains found in the basement of the Johnstown, Pennsylvania, home belong to Jilly Todaro, 43, Cambria County Coroner Jeff Lees announced last week, according to The Associated Press.

Officials categorized her death as homicidal violence but did not disclose any further details about the cause of death, the AP reported.

Cambria County District Attorney Greg Neugebauer said he expects to file charges in connection with Todaros death, per the AP and The Tribune Democrat. He indicated there was only "one" suspect in the case  Brian Giles.

Giles, 48, was convicted on June 6 of first-degree murder in the killing of his wife, Nancy Giles, whose own remains were recovered months after she went missing in 2018, WJAC, WTAJ and The Tribune Democrat previously reported.



On June 7, one day after Brian's conviction in his wife's death, investigators searched a residence where he previously lived and recovered remains which were initially unidentified, Cambria County authorities said, according to the AP.



Facebook Brian Giles (left) and Nancy Giles

Related: He Killed His Wife, and Then His Girlfriend Disappeared. Police Just Found Human Remains Where He Used to Live

Prosecutors did not immediately respond to a request for comment from PEOPLE.

Giles' lawyer tells PEOPLE if there are murder charges against him in connection with Todaro's death, they will consider the option of an insanity plea.

"Throughout these proceedings, [Giles] has maintained his innocence regarding both women," Tim Burns, a court-appointed attorney, said on Wednesday, June 19.

The series of incidents surrounding Nancy and Todaros killings began with Nancys disappearance in 2018, with her remains eventually being found in May 2019 in a shallow grave, according to The Tribune Democrat, WJAC and The Daily American.

Separately, both Todaro and Brian were accused of assaulting each other shortly before Todaro vanished in December 2020.

In May 2022, Brian was charged with murder in connection with Nancys death, three years after her remains were found, WJAC and The Tribune Democrat reported.

He was convicted of killing her in a trial that ended earlier this month, though the defense unsuccessfully argued no physical evidence tied him to the crime.

Fox 8/Facebook Brian Giles

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Police were prompted to search the residence where Todaro was found after a deputy said Brian was heard saying something "concerning" at his conviction, per WTAJ.

Neugebauer, the district attorney, also explained to reporters last week that authorities had received, for the first time, very specific information relative to where a body would be located," according to the AP.

He said law enforcement had thought the remains discovered would be Todaros and that the way in which she was found made their case significantly stronger.

Lees, the coroner, said that Todaro's family could now "start the healing and grieving process."



If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.



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MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  Sandra Sandy Schultz-Peters was a generous, loving friend who often was seen around her Market Common home walking her beloved dogs.

The 66-year-old died on Thursday after she was run over by a full-sized pickup truck while on an Horry County beach  a vehicle operated by a police officer.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is still investigating exactly what happened. The officer remains on administrative leave. News13 has chosen not to identify him as charges have not been filed as of Wednesday night.

A nurse practitioner, Schultz-Peters was known for her kind nature.

Neighbor Cindy Krisel first met Shultz-Peters in 2015 and will never forget her first impression of the woman who would become her friend.

I didnt know it at the time, but she was leaving to go to work, and she said no, tell me, tell me whats wrong so I told her, Krisel said. She told me Yeah, you should probably go to urgent care and she says, actually Im on my way there now, do you need a ride. I just got chills again. She was just so sweet, you know, she didnt know me, I didnt know her, and shes willing to take me to urgent care.

Another neighbor, Tammy Isaac, said Schultz-Peters always had a smile on her face and treated everyone with respect.

She makes you feel comfortable, and I dont think its just because we know her, we knew her, Isaac said. You know, I see her, saw her like that with other patients who dont live in the neighborhood.

Myrtle Beach city leaders say theyre evaluating options to make beach patrol vehicles safer in the aftermath of that deadly incident at the Nash Street ocean access point in Horry County.

Spokesperson Meredith Denari told News13 on Wednesday those enhancements could include exterior cameras and object detection sensors to the front of vehicles.

News13 asked several Horry County Council members on Tuesday to comment about potential changes that could be made to its policies, but all declined.

In the days since Schultz-Peters death, state lawmakers have said theyre interested in updating regulations that could bar full-sized public safety vehicles from patrolling beaches during peak use times.

Theres just no room on the coast for the sunbathers and people who are coming down to enjoy our area, and also have F-150s and other vehicles when we have other resources that we could depend on, Republican state Rep. William Bailey of Little River told News13 on Saturday.

Bailey, a former North Myrtle Beach public safety director, said hed like to see a prohibition on full-sized vehicles being used on the beach during busy hours in the summer in nonemergency situations.

In light of this tragedy, certainly we should be looking at, are we doing it the right way, Bailey said. Just patrolling (with full-sized vehicles) on the oceanfront when there are thousands and thousands of people, its just not worth the risk.

Republican state Rep. Tim McGinnis of Myrtle Beach told News13 that he would also support efforts to better regulate the use of full-sized vehicles on the beach.

I am interested in talking with law enforcement and safety officials about legislation to prevent this from happening again, he said in a text message. What happened was a tragedy, and if theres a way we can make it safer on our beaches, we need to do it.

Denari said Myrtle Beachs fire and police departments each operate on the sand.

The main difference between the two is the MBPD is patrolling the beach, while fire department ocean rescue is responding to medical calls, Denari said.

During daytime and congested hours, city police deploy compact pick-up trucks, side-by-side UTVs and four-wheelers.

Beach patrol officers may also drive a Ford F-150 in addition to vehicles listed at night and during times of less beach congestion only, Denari said.

However, she said the full-sized vehicles play a vital role in keeping people safe for reasons including:

All lifesaving equipment will only fit on full-sized pickups including flotation devices, rescue boards, spinal stabilization gear, mask and snorkel sets, search and rescue marker buoys and first aid kits

Ease of access in loading patients who need emergency care

Launching points for search and rescue jetskis

protection for fire and police personnel during storms and extreme heat

Several safety regulations are already in place, including the ability to make only left turns and a maximum 5 mph speed limit on beaches.

* * *

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.

* * *

Jackie LiBrizzi is a multimedia journalist at News13. Jackie is originally from Hamilton, New Jersey, and was raised in Piedmont, South Carolina. Jackie joined the News13 team in June 2023 after she graduated as a student-athlete from the University of South Carolina in May 2023. Follow Jackie on X, formerly Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, and read 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 WBTW.
Editors note: This article has been updated to remove an address that was specified in an earlier version of the story.

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW)  Myrtle Beach police are investigating alleged sexual or lewd comments directed at foreign students living and working in the city as part of the federal J1 visa program.

The alleged incident involved a man who houses J-1 students, according to a police report filed on Wednesday. The comments were made in the presence of the students. An exact location of the incident was not available.

The comments were so bad that the students had to find other means of housing and reported the incident to the housing coordinator, the report said. The exact nature of the comments was not disclosed in the report.

One person, a 39-year-old man, was listed in the report as having possible internal injuries but its unclear how that person is connected to the investigation.

A Myrtle Beach police spokesperson told News13 Wednesday afternoon that the investigation remains in the early stages.

The report also references the term suspect hate / bias motivated. City leaders in April adopted a hate-crime measure that adds up to 30 days in jail and a $500 fine for anyone convicted of a bias-based crime.

The measure was enacted in the wake of a November cross-burning incident near Conway that led to harassment charges against Worden Butler and Alexis Hartnett.

Myrtle Beach is a very diverse community, said Mark Kruea, the citys spokesperson at the time. Thats one of the things that appeals to people. We have a lot going on here and that variety makes it such an exciting place to live and visit. We want to make sure that its a safe place and that people are not being ugly to each other, so hopefully this will serve as an example to behave nicely.

Earlier this month, the city said plans for a $45 million international student housing complex along Mr. Joe White Avenue remained on track. Wisconsin-based Holtz Builders is looking to build a walled-in campus on more than seven acres that would include dormitory-style housing with up 3,000 beds.

South Carolina remains one of only two states without hate-crime legislation, and in May, the General Assembly ended its session without taking action on the proposed Clementa C. Pickney Act, which would have enhanced penalties for violent crimes fueled by hate. Its named after a state senator and one of the nine victims of the 2015 Mother Emanuel AME church shooting in Charleston.

J-1 students who come to work in the Grand Strand have a temporary nonimmigrant visa, which is issued to those who want to participate in an approved exchange program in the United States. The programs can be work-based, study-based, or both.

The program was created in 1961 to strengthen international relations through education and job training.

Count on News13 for updates.

* * *

Dennis Bright is a Digital Producer at News13. He joined the team in May 2021. Dennis is a West Virginia native and a graduate of Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. Follow Dennis on, Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

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.
DHAKA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Muslims across Bangladesh sacrificed over 10 million animals, mostly cows and goats, during the Eid al-Adha festival, according to estimates shared by a ministry.

In a statement on Tuesday, Bangladesh's Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock said this year's Eid al-Adha saw the sacrifice of 10,408,918 animals.

Last year, 10.1 million animals were sacrificed across the country, it said.

According to the ministry's data, the highest number of animals were sacrificed in capital Dhaka region this year.

Among the sacrificed animals, there were 4,766,859 cows, 112,918 buffaloes, 5,056,719 goats, 471,149 sheep, and 1,273 other animals.

The festival is celebrated on the 10th day of the 12th and final month in the Islamic lunar calendar after the holy Hajj. It also occurs approximately two months and 10 days after Eid al-Fitr, another big religious festival that marks the end of Muslims' holy fasting month of Ramadan.

After prayers, Muslims in Bangladesh sacrificed animals such as sheep, cows, goats and camels in the name of Allah almighty.

Muslim who has financial means sacrifices animals and distributes the meat to family and the poor. 
Nancy Pelosi met with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in India on Wednesday in a move that is expected to anger China.

The former speaker, along with a bipartisan delegation of seven lawmakers, traveled on Tuesday to Dharamshala, a Himalayan town in northern India where the Dalai Lama, 88, has lived in exile since fleeing China in 1959 after a failed Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule, to meet with the spiritual leader.

The meeting came as Joe Biden prepares to sign a bill pressuring Beijing to resolve tensions with Tibet and protect the regions native Buddhist culture.

This bill says to the Chinese government: things have changed now, get ready for that, Pelosi said.

It is still my hope that one day the Dalai Lama and his people will return to Tibet in peace, Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, who led the delegation, added after the meeting.

The bill, passed by Congress last week, presses Beijing to resume negotiations with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders that have been frozen since 2010, and to address Tibetan peoples concerns about their cultural, religious and linguistic autonomy.

Nancy Pelosi meets with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama in India (Dalai Lama/ Instagram)

China governs most of Tibet, which it claims has been part of the country since ancient times. Although the US recognizes Tibet as part of China, the Dalai Lama had met with every US president up until Donald Trump. Joe Biden has not met with the Dalai Lama.

During the meeting, lawmakers presented the spiritual leader with a framed copy of the Resolve Tibet Act which condemns all oppression and coercion of Tibetans and affirms their right to self determination.

Wednesdays meeting came at a time when the US is trying to improve its relations with China following the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the move will anger China, which sees the Dalai Lama as an anti-China separatist  an accusation he denies. China also opposes any contact with the 1989 Nobel Peace laureate by foreign officials.

A group of seven bipartisan US lawmakers made the trip (AP)

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Tuesday that affairs related to Tibet were an internal Chinese matter and that China would take resolute measures to defend its sovereignty, security and development interests.

The ministry also urged the US not to sign the bill into law. We urge the US side to adhere to its commitments of recognizing Tibet as part of China and not supporting Tibet independence, spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular news briefing in Beijing. The US must not sign the bill into law.

Washingtons relations with Beijing first began to deteriorate when then-president Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese goods.

Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in 2022, prompting China to encircle the island with live-fire military drills after she left. Taiwan, a democracy with more than 20 million inhabitants, has been independent since the end of the Chinese civil war in 1949 but is claimed by the Peoples Republic of China.

Since coming to power, Joe Biden has taken a more cautious approach to US-Chinese relations, making efforts to improve relations with Beijing.

Meanwhile, Beijing has repeatedly asked the US not to interfere with Tibetan affairs and argues that the people of Tibet have enjoyed social stability and economic growth under its rule.

The Dalai Lama is expected to travel to the United States on Thursday for medical treatment for his knees, but it is unclear if he will meet any officials while there.
Narcotics investigation leads to the arrest of two and discovery of drugs worth over $25,000

MUSCOGEE COUNTY, Ga. (WRBL)  The Muscogee County Sheriffs Office is sending a message to locals; We wont stop until they stop, after two people were arrested following a narcotics investigation that led to the discovery of drugs, firearms and over $13,000 in cash.

According to the sheriffs office, the special operations unit executed search warrants at two residences on Tuesday that resulted from a narcotic investigation.

During the search of both places, authorities seized the following evidence:

4.4 pounds of marijuana valued at $19,888

126 grams of psilocybin mushrooms worth $1,512

160 packages of THC edibles valued at $3,200

24 disposable THC pens worth $1,056

Eight firearms (one reported stolen)

$13,020 in cash

Two vehicles







Authorities also arrested Zoeie Thomas and Dequan Aldridge after the investigation and took them to the Muscogee County Jail. Thomas and Aldridge are charged with:

Thomas 

Felony possession of marijuana with intent to distribute

Felony possession of THC with intent to distribute

Two counts of felony possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime

Felony possession of psilocybin

Aldridge 

Felony bench warrant for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute

Felony possession of marijuana with intent to distribute

Eight counts of felony possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime

Felony theft by receiving stolen property (firearm)

Felony trafficking psilocybin

Obstruction of a law enforcement officer

Possession of drug-related objects.

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 WRBL.
The return to Earth of Boeing's Starliner capsule will be delayed a few more days due to thruster troubleshooting and a scheduled spacewalk.

NASA announced today (June 18) that Starliner will conclude its first human mission to the International Space Station (ISS) no earlier than June 26, nearly three weeks after it launched. Landing that day is scheduled to occur at White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico at 4:51 a.m. EDT (0851 GMT). We'll carry it live here at Space.com, via NASA Television.

The two-astronaut mission, known as Crew Flight Test (CFT), was originally supposed to spend about a week at the ISS, but its ISS departure has been pushed back considerably. NASA and Boeing are using the extra time to continue evaluating thruster issues that interfered with Starliner's first ISS docking attempt on June 6. Additionally, a postponed ISS maintenance spacewalk will now take place on June 24, two days before Starliner's scheduled departure.

"We want to give our teams a little bit more time to look at the data, do some analysis and make sure we're really ready to come home," Steve Stich, manager of NASA's Commercial Crew Program, said during a livestreamed teleconference with reporters today. Starliner can undock in case of emergency, but otherwise, testing is ongoing to learn more about the vehicle's systems.

Related: Thruster glitches and helium leaks can't stop Boeing's Starliner astronaut test flight  but why are they happening?

Stich reiterated that five of Starliner's 28 reaction control thrusters failed during the final phase of the ISS rendezvous on June 6, though four of them eventually came back online. (Starliner succeeded on its second docking try, which occurred several hours later on June 6.) Evaluation of what happened is ongoing. As part of that effort, Boeing and NASA ground team members performed a thruster hot-fire test over the weekend alongside the astronauts, and, after that, Stich said, everyone "feels very confident."

One thruster was not fired during the test due to abnormally low pressure first observed during docking, and it will remain offline during the return to Earth. (Canadarm2, the robotic arm on the space station, was also used to view the thrusters via robotic camera, according to ISS Program Manager Dana Weigel, who also participated in the teleconference.)

CFT's docking was a bit more complex than the only other time Starliner approached the ISS, which was done during an uncrewed test flight in May 2022. That uncrewed mission, called Orbital Flight Test 2 (OFT-2), also faced thruster issues that interfered with docking.

But "the rendezvous [for CFT] was a little bit more demanding on the propulsion system. In other words, it fired its thrusters a bit more frequently," Stich said. Additionally, teams are doing hardware simulations at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama to model ongoing helium leaks on Starliner.

A white Boeing Starliner spacecraft floats above a blue Earth against the black of space on June 6, 2024.

A small helium leak in one of Starliner's reaction control system (RCS) thrusters was first discovered on the pad in early May, after a launch attempt was waved off due to a valve issue with the capsule's United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket.

Several new helium leaks arose during the mission, and a fault tree analysis is ongoing to find out what happened. Stich said the helium leaks and RCS thruster issues appear to have different causes, while Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager of Boeing's commercial crew program, said data review is continuing to reveal more about what is happening.

The helium leak on the launch pad was not an immediate safety issue, but in investigating it further, NASA and Boeing uncovered a design vulnerability in the RCS system that could affect Starliner's reentry. Agency officials subsequently certified a new reentry mode after testing the idea on the ground in simulations with the CFT crew, veteran NASA astronauts Barry Wilmore and Suni Williams, both of whom are former U.S. Navy test pilots.

two astronauts in spacesuits with open visors on their helmets

Wilmore and Williams have been testing Starliner's various systems in orbit, and ground teams have continued to analyze data to get a better handle on the thruster and helium-leak issues.

Stich emphasized that testing in orbit on Saturday (June 15) gave the team confidence that Starliner is recovering. "Saturday was a big day of understanding that helium leaks have gone down, and also understanding the thrusters have recovered, and that we can count on the thrusters for the remainder of the flight," he said.

Although evaluation of what is happening continues, he said the tone of the conversation has changed. "I think now we're doing the normal business we do of, What are the contingencies that could happen [with] the undock timeframe? And when we get to these, how we manage each of those contingencies, should something happen, and then look at the procedures we have in place. Are we ready to execute those?"

The delayed mission return also accommodates a planned June 13 spacewalk that was postponed due to a "spacesuit discomfort" issue during suit-up. NASA astronaut Matt Dominick, the ISS crew member experiencing discomfort, will not go outside during the rescheduled spacewalk on June 24 to prevent this from happening again, Weigel said during today's press conference.

Weigel told Space.com that, if the June 24 spacewalk is delayed again, Starliner's undocking would be the priority and spacewalking NASA astronauts Tracy Caldwell Dyson and Mike Barratt would wait until after Starliner leaves to perform the extravehicular activity.

a white rocket launches on a sunny day above a plume of fire and smoke

CFT is a developmental mission. Throughout the launch and flight campaign, Boeing and NASA have emphasized that mission timelines are therefore very much in flux as Starliner flies its first-ever mission with humans on board. Wilmore and Williams said much the same, based on their experience with the U.S. Navy flying complex aircraft.

"We've always said this is a test flight, and we're going to learn some things. So here we are," Nappi said during today's press conference. "We've learned that our helium system is not performing, albeit manageable. It's still working like we had designed it. So, we got to go figure that out."

Nappi emphasized that the performance of most of the RCS thrusters is good, trending toward nominal, while the helium leaks "show that they're stable and less than measured [before]." The team is working to learn more about Starliner while the service module, which provides most of the spacecraft's fuel and power, is still attached to the spacecraft, as it will be discarded just before landing.

"This is an opportunity to fully understand the system's performance and without the pressure of schedule or time," Nappi said. Aside from the technical issues, the mission has satisfied 77 of the original 87 flight test objectives, he noted; the remaining 10 will be evaluated during undocking and landing.

Related: NASA weighs potential impacts of helium leaks and more on Boeing's Starliner astronaut test flight

a cone-shaped spacecraft attached to a sprawling metal space station

Starliner, along with SpaceX's Dragon capsule, are tasked by NASA to send agency-led crews to the ISS from American soil. (Russia also leads and launches cosmonaut-led crews on its long-running Soyuz spacecraft.) CFT aims to certify Starliner for the first operational ISS rotation mission, called Starliner-1, expected to launch in 2025.

Dragon and Starliner were first tasked in 2014 to send NASA astronauts aloft by 2017, but funding and technical issues extended the timeline by several years. SpaceX, whose Crew Dragon spacecraft is based on the company's ISS cargo capsule, launched its first astronaut test mission in 2020 following just one uncrewed test flight. Starliner's first human mission came four years after that and required two uncrewed tests, in part because the spacecraft is a new design.

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Starliner's path to CFT was delayed after the capsule experienced problems on its first uncrewed test mission in December 2019 and failed to reach the ISS as planned. (Astronauts often say, however, that in developmental programs such as Starliner, timelines are difficult to estimate as the unexpected can always arise.)

Boeing addressed those glitches, which took time. The outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic in early 2020 delayed the launch of the second uncrewed ISS mission further, pushing it into May 2022. CFT was next expected to launch in 2023, but that flight was delayed after issues with parachute loading and flammable tape were uncovered last year.

CFT then underwent two scrubs on the pad due to issues with the Atlas V and ground equipment. The first, on May 6, occurred roughly two hours before launch due to a "buzzing valve" that required rolling back to a company facility for replacement. The second launch attempt on June 1 was scrubbed due to an issue with a ground launch sequencer less than four minutes before liftoff.
Simulated Star

NASA is planning to launch an unusual payload, roughly the size of a toaster and outfitted with eight lasers.

Its job is to imitate stars and other celestial objects like supernovas, Live Science reports, by beaming lasers straight into their instruments back on the surface.

The false star is part of the space agency's $19.5 million mission dubbed Landolt, and is designed to allow scientists to get more accurate measurements of real stars. Researchers suggest it could even help study dark energy, the mysterious hypothetical form of energy that's been used to explain why the universe is expanding at an accelerating rate.

"Even with today's modern instruments, measurements of the true brightness of stars have only been known to a few percent," said NASA Exoplanet Science Institute deputy director and Caltech astronomer David Ciardi in a statement. "Landolt will enable an improvement in those measurements by more than a factor of ten."

"Understanding the true brightness of stars allows us to understand the stars better, and, perhaps more importantly, understand the planets that orbit the stars better," he added.

Sky Pixel

The mission was named after astronomer Alro Landolt, who created widely used catalogs of stellar brightness since 1973 and passed away in 2022.

"His last name is famous in the whole astronomy community," University of Hawaii associate astronomer and professor Daniel Huber told Voice of America. "The Landolt standard star everyone knows what that is."

The team will compare the known brightness of the artificial star to its much more distant counterparts to create new stellar brightness catalogs. While it may not be bright enough to be visible to the naked eye, it can be seen through a telescope.

By studying the brightness of distant stars, researchers are also hoping to study the rate of the expansion of the universe, which could shed light on dark energy, one of the biggest mysteries facing astronomy today.

The spacecraft is set to launch sometime in 2029 and will orbit the planet at a synchronous orbit of 22,236 miles to remain stationary over a single point on Earth.

To University of Florida assistant professor of astronomy and mission member Jamie Tayar, "what were trying to do here is really fundamental."

"The goal is to be able to figure out, for other planets orbiting other stars, whether they too could have oceans where life could presumably arise and live," she said in a statement. "For each star, you need to know exactly how much energy is coming from the star, and exactly how far away the planet is, and so on."

More on star brightness: Astronomers Puzzled by Galaxy With No Stars
NASA has released the fist galactic image captured by the Hubble Space Telescope's new one-gyroscope pointing mode. An issue with one of the gyros took the telescope offline for several weeks. Photo by David Thilker (Johns Hopkins University)/ NASA, ESA, STSci

June 19 (UPI) -- NASA on Tuesday released a Hubble Space Telescope image captured by using a new pointing mode that uses just one gyroscope. The telescope resumed operations June 14 after a gyro issue took it offline for several weeks.

The new image is of NGC 1546, a nearby Dorado constellation galaxy.

According to NASA scientists, Hubble is expected to be capable of most of it science observations using the new single-gyro pointing mode.

"Hubble's new image of a spectacular galaxy demonstrates the full success of our new, more stable pointing mode for the telescope," said NASA's Dr. Jennifer Wiseman in a statement. "We're poised now for many years of discovery ahead, and we'll be looking at everything from our solar system to exoplanets to distant galaxies."

The image shows "dust lanes" slightly above and backlit by the galaxy's core. NASA said brilliant blue regions in the image are active star formations sparkling through the dust.

The image was captured from Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3. Some background galaxies also are seen in the image.

It's one of the first images taken using the new pointing mode.

NASA said earlier this month that an ongoing gyroscope issue forced a suspension of operations after the telescope automatically entered safe mode.

One of the three Hubble gyroscopes gave faulty telemetry readings. In 2009, six new gyros were installed and three of those remain operational.

Hubble was launched in 1990 and recently marked is 34th anniversary observing the universe.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Nashville will soon be getting its first rainbow crosswalk.

The rainbow crosswalk will be at the intersection of 14th and Woodland in East Nashville, which is near the states only lesbian-owned bar, the Lipstick Lounge.

The crosswalk will be painted on Saturday, June 29 at 9 a.m., and community members are encouraged to attend or stream the event. Roughly 100 volunteers are needed to complete the painting of the crosswalk.

The Lipstick Lounge expanding to include sports bar called Chapstick

This crosswalk is the result of a collaboration between Metro Council, the Davidson County LGBTQ Caucus, the Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT), Nashville Pride and councilmember Clay Capp, according to a press release.

The crosswalks, seen in other cities throughout the world, are meant to be a symbol of unity and acceptance. Metro Council LGBTQ Caucus chair Emily Benedict said that the Caucus is excited to bring this to Nashville.

This has been on many peoples minds for a long time, Benedict said. Weve been working on it as a Caucus over the past few months and are thrilled to bring it to fruition. It is historic for our city in one of our most historic locations, outside one of the most iconic lesbian-owned establishments in the country.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

The press release added that the crosswalk is also made possible, in part, through NDOTs Tactical Urbanism Program. According to the programs website, tactical urbanism is an action-oriented approach using temporary measures to offer and test solutions in the public realm. It is also known as planning by-doing or pop-up urbanism and has been happening in Nashville since 2012.

According to The Movement Advancement Project, an independent think tank, Tennessee received a negative overall policy tally, meaning that it is one of the least LGBTQ-friendly states in the country.

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.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  The search for Nashvilles Top 10 Most Wanted fugitives is continuing, with one new suspect in a robbery and kidnapping featured on this weeks list.

The Metro Nashville Police Departments list of Most Wanted fugitives is updated every Wednesday on the Criminal Warrants Divisions Facebook page. According to police, those featured on the list are often considered to be some of the most violent offenders in the city.

More than 100 of Nashvilles Most Wanted fugitives arrested since 2022

Of the suspects on this weeks list, more than half are wanted for either homicide or charges related to alleged sex crimes. The rest of Nashvilles Most Wanted suspects are accused of crimes such as aggravated burglary, aggravated assault and aggravated stalking.

Many have reportedly been on the run for nearly a year now, including a rape suspect who was added back to the list last week. But while the search for these suspects continues, the list has aided police in several arrests.

Wanted fugitive Jose Alvarez-Diaz turned himself in to police about a month after appearing on the Most Wanted list in April. According to authorities, he was wanted for attempted incest, attempted rape and sexual battery charges dating back to December 2022.

Man wanted for attempted incest, rape turns himself in to Metro police

In total, at least 115 Most Wanted fugitives have been taken into custody since the program was launched in October 2022. Investigators have largely attributed the programs success to tips theyve received from the public.

Below is a list of the suspects who made the police departments Top 10 Most Wanted list the week of June 19, 2024.

1. Adrian L. Cameron

Adrian Cameron (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

At number one, Adrian Cameron, 19, is considered this weeks Top Most Wanted fugitive, according to the MNPD. This is the fifth week in a row Cameron has appeared on the list. However, police have been looking for him since mid-April.

Investigators said Cameron is one of three suspects in the death of 32-year-old rapper Chris King, who was shot and killed just before 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 20. King and his friends were reportedly hanging out in an alleyway between Hayes Street and Church Street that night.

RELATED: 1 killed, 1 injured in shooting along Hayes Street

Eventually, three other men began interacting with the group. Kings friends told police it started out cordial, but after some time, the three suspects allegedly tried to rob them. Thats when gunfire ran out, injuring King and his 29-year-old friend.

Both of them were brought to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, but King did not survive. Cameron, who was out on bond for the 2021 murder of 50-year-old Josh Evans at the time, was identified as a suspect in the shooting only days later.

Officials believe Cameron cut his ankle monitor shortly after the shooting. Cameron had just turned 17 years old when police said he turned himself in for Evans murder. Evans was found shot and wrapped in trash bags in the Cumberland River in Sept. 2021.

Unbelievable: Mourning Lebanon family outraged teen murder suspect was out on bond, accused of killing again

Cameron was arrested again for gun charges in Rutherford County less than four months after turning himself in for the 2021 murder. Hes now charged with criminal homicide in connection with Kings death, as well as failure to appear.

However, efforts to locate him have been unsuccessful. Anyone with information on Camerons whereabouts is asked to contact the MNPD at 615-862-8600 or Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

2. Lagarrion L. Blacksmith

Lagarrion Blacksmith (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Lagarrion Blacksmith, 35, has been at the top of Nashvilles Most Wanted list for several months as police continue to try to track him down.

He was initially added to the list on Nov. 29, 2023, after investigators said they were able to connect him to a deadly shooting that took place outside a Dickerson Pike bar last year.

Officers found 35-year-old Chancellor Eddins lying on the ground just outside of Trvth Lounge on Feb. 18, 2023. He had been shot and later died at the scene. Another man who had also been hit by the gunfire was able to give officers an account of what happened.

RELATED: Man wanted for homicide, other charges following fatal February shooting on Dickerson Pike

According to police, the injured man told them he and Eddins had gotten into an argument with the suspect inside of the bar. Then, shots were fired as they left the location. At the time, the identity of the alleged shooter was unclear.

Months later, investigators announced Blacksmith had been identified as a suspect. On Nov. 22, 2023, officials said arrest warrants had been issued against Blacksmith for criminal homicide, attempted homicide, and felon in possession of a handgun.

However, efforts to locate him have reportedly been unsuccessful.

3. Jaylen Bender

Jaylen Bender (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Jaylen Bender, 22, was recently indicted by a grand jury on charges for aggravated assault with intent and assault with bodily injury, according to police. He was added to the Most Wanted list on May 1. Authorities said his last location is unknown.

4. Raceme Crutcher

Raceme Crutcher (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Police have been looking for Raceme Crutcher, 22, since July 2023, when he was named as one of two suspects in a deadly Fourth of July shooting.

Officials said the shooting happened at the Fallbrook Apartments on Dellway Villa Road. Etabo Malanda, 16, was reportedly standing on the porch of an apartment when two armed individuals came from around the corner and confronted him.

RELATED: Teen killed in shooting at East Nashville apartment complex

Malanda allegedly tried to pull out a pistol that was inside his hoodie, but he was shot. Police said he died shortly after he was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

According to investigators, four guns were recovered from the apartment, including one that was reported stolen. Crutcher and 17-year-old Jaylin Brown were reportedly connected to the crime through witness accounts.

Investigators also obtained surveillance footage and additional information from community members that they said pointed to Crutcher and Brown as suspects in the case. Officials believe the motive may have been an ongoing dispute between the suspects and Malanda.

SEE ALSO: Teen wanted in connection with deadly Fourth of July shooting arrested

Brown was taken into custody on Aug. 31, 2023, after police said they caught him driving a stolen car. However, Crutcher is still on the run. He was added to the Most Wanted list on Nov. 15, 2023. His last location is unknown.

5. Michael A. Yarlett

Michael A. Yarlett (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Michael Yarlett, 29, is wanted on three counts of aided and abetted rape, according to authorities. Court documents indicate he is one of two suspects in the incident, which happened in September 2022.

Yarlett was added to the Most Wanted list on Nov. 22, 2023. Officials said his last location is unknown.

6. Diego Camaja-Santiago

Diego Camaja-Santiago (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Police are continuing to search for Diego Camaja-Santiago, 24, after he initially appeared on the Most Wanted list nearly a year ago on Aug. 16. He was added back to the list last week after being indicted by a grand jury on several charges related to alleged sex crimes.

According to authorities, Camaja-Santiago has outstanding warrants for two counts of aggravated rape with bodily injury, two counts of statutory rape and probation violation. His last location is unknown.

7. Marisah D. White

Marisah D. White (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Marisah White, 21, is a new addition to the list this week. According to police, White is wanted on outstanding warrants for robbery, two counts of facilitating aggravated kidnapping and theft of property.

Court records show she is one of two people involved in the alleged crimes, which took place more than two years ago on April 4, 2022. Officials said her last location is unknown.

8. Adrian Abernathy

Adrian Abernathy (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Adrian Abernathy, 30, is believed to have been behind the wheel of a stolen car in a deadly October 2022 crash on the Rosa L. Parks Boulevard exit ramp from I-65 North.

Abernathy has outstanding warrants for vehicular homicide, three counts of aggravated assault, felon in possession of a weapon, theft of a motor vehicle, theft of a firearm, reckless endangerment and making a false report.

RELATED: Man wanted after allegedly lying about driving stolen car involved in deadly crash

According to police, Abernathy initially said he was a backseat passenger in the stolen Lincoln Navigator SUV. However, over the course of the investigation, detectives determined the seating positions were reversed and Abernathy was the one driving the car.

Authorities said he was traveling over 100 mph shortly before the crash, which killed 29-year-old Todd Bryant of Antioch.

Abernathy has been featured on the Most Wanted list several times since early February 2023. He was added back to the list on May 1 after last being featured in November. Officials said he was last seen in Hermitage.

9. Dewayne E. Humbles

Dewayne E. Humbles (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Dewayne Humbles, 21, has a total of 21 outstanding warrants for multiple violent offenses and violations of court orders, according to police.

The charges against him include three counts of aggravated stalking, three counts of aggravated assault, two counts of domestic assault, four counts of criminal contempt, three counts of failure to appear, four counts of violation of a protection order, one count of probation violation and one count of vandalism.

Humbles was added to the Most Wanted list on May 29. Officials said his last location is unknown.

10. Elijah D. Maitland

Elijah D. Maitland (Courtesy: Metro Nashville Police Department)

Elijah Maitland, 23, is wanted on outstanding warrants for aggravated burglary, false imprisonment, domestic assault and two counts of interference with an emergency call, according to authorities.

Maitland was added to the list on June 5. Police said his last location is unknown.

CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee

Anyone with information on any of the suspects listed is asked to contact the MNPD at 615-862-8600 or Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463.

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.
The outgoing chief of the National Guard warned that deploying troops to the southern border has no military training value and could possibly hurt military readiness.

Gen. Daniel Hokanson, the chief of the National Guard Bureau, testified before a Senate Appropriations budget defense subcommittee hearing Tuesday. He said there are about 2,500 National Guardsmen at the southern border serving under the U.S. Northern Command as he criticized stationing the troops there.

As Ive expressed within the building as well, there is no military training value for what we do. This is a law enforcement mission under the Department of Homeland Security, he said.

Both the Biden and Trump administrations had authorized National Guard troops to assist the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in securing the border. Hokansons testimony comes as President Biden has taken action in recent weeks to curtail the number of migrants entering the U.S.

Biden has also taken heat on both sides of the aisle for his executive action on the border. Committee Chair Jon Tester (D-Mont.), who pressed Hokanson about the current deployment of National Guard troops to the southern border, said things have gotten worse over the administrations failed border policies.

Hokanson said the National Guard troops at the border are not participating in training directly applicable to their skills.

I know that were providing additional support along there. But for our guardsmen there, they might as well be deployed to Kuwait or somewhere overseas, because theyre away from their families, Hokanson said.

Theyre there doing mission sets that are not directly applicable to their military skill set. And so, it increases their personal operational tempo. And that time I think would be better utilized building readiness to deter our adversaries, he added.

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(Getty Images)

Civil rights historian Hasan Kwame Jeffries said Americans love nostalgia, not history.

Nostalgia is the stories about the past that make people feel comfortable with the present, regardless of whether they are true, Jeffries explained. But what is needed is an understanding of hard history, Jeffries said such as slavery.

If were caught up in the nostalgia and dont deal with the hard history, dont deal with those hard aspects of the ways we have generated and perpetuated inequality, then we are not prepared to address the issues today, Jeffries said.

Jeffries, a professor at Ohio State University, gave a keynote address at the University of Southern Maine on Friday night about the nations inadequate commitment to teaching about slavery and its legacies. Joined by House Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross and other local leaders, Jeffries speech was followed by a panel discussion highlighting some of the hard histories related to African Americans and the Wabanaki Nations that Maine institutions and people continue to not fully reckon with.

Teaching hard histories in Maine

In Maine, schools have failed to adequately integrate the required teachings of Wabanaki and African American studies into the K-12 curriculum.

The history of the Wabanaki Nations  the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Mikmaq Nation, Penobscot Nation and Passamaquoddy Tribe  became required teaching through a state law passed in 2001. However, the law has not been meaningfully enforced across the state, according to a 2022 report from the Abbe Museum, ACLU of Maine, Maine Indian Tribal-State Commission and Wabanaki Alliance.

African American studies became required teaching more recently, in 2021, and during public testimony before lawmakers this year, several people cautioned that that course of study would likely see the same fate without additional resources and accountability.

This spring, the Maine Legislature initially passed a bill sponsored by Talbot Ross to give teachers and schools more resources to ensure effective implementation of both courses of study, but the legislation ultimately failed after getting caught up in the funding process.

The event panelists emphasized challenges educators face when trying to teach hard histories such as these.

Educators are afraid to teach it because they dont want to teach it wrong, said Brianne Lolar, the Wabanaki studies specialist for the Maine Department of Education.

For schools failing to comply with the 2001 law, Lolar also sees teachers hesitant to reach out, though said there is no shame if you start now.

Educators and administrators also fear legal repercussions or for their personal safety, said Meagan Sway, policy director of the Maine ACLU, pointing to heated school board meetings and lawsuits in recent years.

Before the Maine Legislature considered the African American and Wabanaki studies bill, during the first year of Maines latest two-year legislative session lawmakers debated a resolve to prohibit teachers from engaging in political, ideological and religious advocacy in the classroom as well as several bills that sought to give parents more say over what their children learn in school.

The energy is being used in a defensive mode, instead of advancing and promoting a better curriculum, Sway said.

For Talbot Ross, the next step that should be taken to address hard histories in Maine needs to be institutional change.

Investment is essential, Talbot Ross told the audience Friday evening.

Talbot Ross pointed to other failed attempts to benefit the African American, Wabanaki and other minority communities in Maine. Another bill she sponsored this past session to create a Maine Board on Place Names did not become law after Gov. Janet Mills declined to sign any of the legislation sent to her desk on the final day of session due to objections to additional spending and the Legislature passing bills past its deadline for adjournment.

Talbot Ross also highlighted the ongoing effort to legally restore tribal sovereignty to the Wabanaki Nations, which unlike the other 570 federally-recognized tribes in the U.S. are treated more like municipalities than sovereign nations under the 1980 Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act. Despite growing legislative and public support, lawmakers significantly pared back the third attempt at sweeping reform to avoid another veto from Mills, who signed into law a narrowed bill focused on criminal jurisdiction.

Lessons in hard histories

Jeffries said hes learned a lot about hard history through his daughter. When she was in pre-K, he recounted how he taught her and her classmates about Martin Luther King Jr., explaining what life had been like for King in Jim Crow Georgia as well as Kings vision for the future.

Jeffries recalled what his daughter took away from learning that history: that America is damaged.

America is in fact damaged, and its been damaged from the beginning, Jefferies said. That more perfect union that we are striving for and toward has never existed. It doesnt mean that it cant.

Jeffries encourages lifelong learning. Without it, he cautioned people often rationalize evil, create false narratives such as the Lost Cause of the Confederacy  which is a belief that the Civil War wasnt fought over slavery  or engage in purposeful historical amnesia.

We are never too young to learn this history, Jefferies said, and we are never too old.

Moving beyond the idea that if people do not know the past, they will be doomed to repeat it, Jeffries said that sentiment assumes America has stopped doing all of the things in the past that have created inequality in the present.

There is no end point, Jeffries said, We need to stop talking about, worrying about, repeating history. We need to focus on disrupting that continuum of hard history from past to present.

The event on Friday was part of a series presented by Atlantic Black Box, in collaboration with the American Civil Liberties Union of Maine, Osher Map Library and Smith Center for Cartographic Education, University of Southern Maine, Maine Black Community Development, The Third Place and Portland Public Schools.

These events laid the groundwork for the Walk for Historical & Ecological Recovery (WHERE), a community-engagement effort with walks in seven communities across Maine designed to highlight the ways Indigenous, Black and settler-descendant populations are, or are not, represented in Maines commemorative landscape. The first walk will occur on June 22 in Portland.

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The post National historian, Maine leaders discuss need to better understand our hard histories appeared first on Maine Morning Star.
Rwandan president accuses West of double standards on democracy ahead of elections

Xinhua) 08:58, June 19, 2024

KIGALI, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Monday accused Western countries of adopting "double standards" on democracy, ahead of next month's general elections in the East African country.

Kagame, who has been president of Rwanda since 2000, was responding to a question about critics who accuse him of clinging to power.

"Democracy is about freedom of choice. If that is the case unless the definition has changed over time, I have never known of any place where democracy has succeeded when principles and ideals have been dictated from the outside," Kagame said, speaking in an interview on national television.

"They say you have been there too long, but that is none of their business ... Rwandans are the ones to make those choices. They have the freedom to do it. But you find that in most cases, the complaints are from outside. These are double standards; it's even arrogance," he said.

Kagame's comments came days after the country's National Electoral Commission cleared him and two other candidates to run in the presidential election next month.

Kagame is a candidate of the ruling Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF). His two challengers are Frank Habineza of the opposition Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, and Philippe Mpayimana, an independent candidate.

Kagame pointed out that the political context of every country matters in politics, adding that lines of thinking are going to be different from one place to another, wondering whether the democracy being practiced in Rwanda is the opposite of the description of democracy. "Some of these countries have strict rules, and they don't want anybody to interfere in their politics, but they find it easy to get involved in other people's politics. What sense does it make?"

"If interfering in other people's affairs is wrong, what gives you the right to go and get involved in other people's affairs ... Some of them are leaders of their own countries in spite of their very low ratings. But that is democracy I'm told," he added.

Rwandans will go to the polls to elect the president and members of parliament on July 15.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities have earmarked 346 million yuan (about 48.63 million U.S. dollars) in disaster relief funds to assist flood control and drought relief efforts for a broad swath of the country.

Some 213 million yuan will be used to support flood control and relief work in the provincial-level regions of Zhejiang, Fujian, Jiangxi, Hunan, Guangdong, Guangxi and Guizhou, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Finance on Wednesday.

Provincial-level regions of Hebei, Inner Mongolia, Shandong and Henan will receive 69 million yuan for drought relief work such as ensuring water supply for rural and urban residents.

Fujian and Guangdong provinces will receive 64 million yuan for geological disaster relief work, according to the statement.

The Ministry of Water Resources and the China Meteorological Administration on Wednesday issued an orange alert for potential mountain torrents in Guizhou and Qinghai. Localities have been advised to take preventive measures such as real-time monitoring, issuing flood prevention warnings, and undertaking relocation to ensure the safety of local residents.

China has a four-tier, color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. 
GROVE CITY, OHIO (WCMH)- A new urgent care center through Nationwide Childrens Hospital will be providing pediatric care to patients in and around Grove City.

The hospital is expanding by adding a Close To Home center at 1350-1370 Stringtown Road in Grove City, east of Interstate 71, according to an announcement from Nationwide Childrens. The facility will bring access to several services including urgent care, EKG testing, clinical therapies and lab services for newborns, children and young adults.

Mixed-use project proposed for 43-acre site near Ohio Universitys Dublin campus

Right now, there are currently 23 Close To Home centers across central Ohio including Clintonville, Hilliard, Lewis Center and Westerville. According to the hospital, new locations will also be opening this year in Zanesville and Athens.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The facilities also provide basic services including physical exams, vision, hearing and general checkups and more. The Close To Home Center in Grove City is expected to open in 2026.

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Discussions continue among North Atlantic Alliance members on how decisive the wording of the decision at the NATO summit in Washington on Ukraine's future membership should be.

Source: European Pravda with reference to CNN

Details: The sources of CNN report that the US and Germany propose to include the wording about Ukraine having a "bridge" to NATO membership in the Summits decision  similar wording was included in a recently signed American-Ukrainian security agreement.

Meanwhile, the UK and some Central and Eastern European countries support the wording about Ukraines "irreversible path" to the Alliance, used by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

An American official told CNN that the word "irreversible" was unlikely to be supported by the whole Alliance, giving the countries that would act against it, for instance, Hungary, as an example. Another source said that not all NATO members were ready for such a wording, as Ukraine has not implemented all the democratic and anti-corruption reforms necessary for membership.

An official from a European country that is in favour of Ukraines NATO membership stated that the European allies were lobbying the White House so that the wording in the decision of the Washington summit was as precise as possible.

"We instinctively feel a new path should be laid out. Fast tracking [Ukraines membership] should be looked at," he said.

CNN noted that there is a general recognition that NATOs position out of the summit needs to have advanced from last years meeting in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, when the allies declared that "Ukraines future is in NATO" but didnt offer a timeline.

Earlier, Julian Smith, US ambassador to NATO, stated that important changes in the wording regarding Ukraine's membership prospects would be made at an upcoming meeting of NATO leaders in Washington.

The Ukrainian government hopes that the decision of the summit will contain a specific position regarding the irreversibility of Ukraines membership.

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A NATO-style defense pact and an image boost  what Putin got from North Korean visit

Vladmir Putins first visit to North Korea in nearly a quarter of a century has been intensely scrutinized around the world. Russia knew the West was watching and the optics were not subtle.

Putin has been left out of many global gatherings of late, and risks arrest in much of the world thanks to a warrant from the International Criminal Court over his invasion of Ukraine.

But on Wednesday, the increasingly isolated Russian president was met with a rapturous welcome in Pyongyang. Children waved Russian flags as Putins giant picture adorned one side of Kim Il Sung square, while footage broadcast on Russian state media showed posters of the Kremlin leader lining the streets. All of it was a signal to the world that not only is Putin is not isolated, his patronage is still prized in some parts of the globe.

And here, unlike in China, no one could accuse him of being the junior partner.

Neither the rhetoric of the two leaders, nor the so-called comprehensive strategic partnership pact they signed, left any doubt that the overarching goal was to band together against what Putin described as the imperialist policy of the United States and its satellites.

The pact apparently contains a clause similar to NATOs Article V, providing, according to Putin, for the provision of mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this agreement.

Putin went on to accuse the West of violating its international responsibilities by delivering F-16s and other weapons to Ukraine, adding Russia therefore does not rule out the development of military-technical co-operation with the DPRK in accordance with the document signed today.

In other words, the two are promising militarily help to each other at a time of escalating face-offs with their neighbors and the West. And this raises major questions.

If this is a collective defense pact, does Russias nuclear deterrent now extend to North Koreas and vice versa? Will that military-technical cooperation include holding joint military drills and establishing joint forces to protect their borders? Who else could join this pact in the future? Neither Putin nor Kim provided any concrete details.

In a sense this is laying out what they have been already building up in the recent months and years, said Jo Bee-yun, Associate Research Fellow at Korea Institute for Defense Analyses. But definitely I would say this clause is very alarming.

Russia's President Vladimir Putin was given a rapturous welcome in Pyongyang. - Vladimir Smirnov/Sputnik/Pool/Reuters

Because its at the initial stage, depending on how things roll out, they would, if I were them, they would interpret the clause according to their needs.

And theres the more immediate concern that the military-technical cooperation could mean more shells and missiles making their way from North Korean factories to the front lines in Ukraine.

Both Moscow and Pyongyang have denied this is happening, and yet Russia, having once backed UN sanctions that explicitly prevent North Korea from exporting weapons, used this opportunity to again denounce politically motivated sanction.

Back in March, Russia had already used its position on the UN security council to end the mandate of a panel monitoring North Korean sanctions violations.

Russian state media did not miss the opportunity to needle the West. The West admits terrible concern around Putins visit to North Korea read the headline in Moskovsky Komsomolets, a national daily newspaper Tuesday.

What difference does it make to the Americans if we talk to our neighbor [North Korea], why are you getting so worked up? taunted top Kremlin propagandist Vladimir Solovyov on his Tuesday night talk show, before adding, less reassuringly, we are already living in a Third World War.

That comment perhaps speaks to another part of Moscows strategy: Russia may now have calculated that its own nuclear saber-rattling is no longer enough to prevent the West from stepping up aid to Ukraine.

The meeting with Kim Jong UN, and this breakthrough pact come at the same time as long-awaited US weapons are starting to flow to Ukraine, and some restrictions are being lifted on using them to hit Russia.

Russia also needs weapons to keep up its strategy of exhausting and destroying Ukraine into surrender.

So while it still may not be in Russias strategic interest to provide explicit funding or technology to expand the nuclear arsenal of its unpredictable neighbor - and risk upsetting China  it may at least want the West to believe its willing to do it.

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The signing ceremony was attended by key figures, including Chair Parrish, Fiscal Recovery Fund Office Director Lisa Jymm, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority Deputy General Manager Rex Kontz, and Navajo Nation Controller Sean McCabe. (photo/Navajo Nation)

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren signed legislation on Tuesday aimed at maximizing the use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to boost infrastructure development across the reservation. The legislation, passed by the Navajo Nation Council on June 5, allocates $521.8 million of ARPA funding into a newly established Revenue Replacement Reserve.

According to a press release from Navajo Nation, the move is designed to create a trust fund enabling the Navajo Nation to borrow against the reserve, effectively increasing the funding available for infrastructure projects.

Nygren highlighted the unprecedented nature of this initiative, noting,

"Its the first time the Navajo Nation has taken federal money and found a creative solution to convert it to our own unrestricted funds. The main thing is we got it done," said in the statement. "We took off the timelines and now we can have a little bit of breathing room."

The legislation addresses critical regional needs, earmarking substantial funds for various projects, including $137 million for wastewater treatment plants and $63 million for housing. Nygren emphasized that this approach ensures no ARPA funds will be returned to the U.S. Treasury, aligning with the shared goals of his administration and Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley.

"This plan complies with U.S. Treasury guidelines and allows us to redeploy funds towards economic development infrastructure projects. By leveraging these funds, we aim to increase the potential investment to $800 million or even $1 billion," Nygren said.

The legislation reallocates $737.5 million in Fiscal Recovery Funds to projects most likely to be completed by the December 2026 deadline. Key allocations include:

$137.3 million for wastewater infrastructure projects in Kayenta, Chinle, Ganado, and Shiprock.

$62.9 million for the construction of approximately 210 homes through the Community Housing and Infrastructure Department (CHID).

$521 million to reimburse the Navajo Nation General Fund for services provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.

$15 million for staff of the Navajo Nation Fiscal Recovery Fund Office.

Shaandiin Parrish, chair of the Councils Budget & Finance Committee, noted that 80% of the Navajo Nations ARPA funding is now obligated, leaving $200 million to be allocated before the impending deadline.

Nygren utilized his line-item veto authority to remove projects lacking equity or profit-sharing agreements with the Nation, ensuring funds are strategically leveraged. He also vetoed items with expired deadlines, preserving funding for original regional chapter plans.

The next step involves the Council passing legislation to establish the trust fund, a move Nygren urges to expedite.

"We need to act quickly to create the Trust Fund and ensure we maximize the funds placed in it. The two branches of government must collaborate to manage it responsibly," he asserted.

The signing ceremony was attended by key figures, including Chair Parrish, Fiscal Recovery Fund Office Director Lisa Jymm, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority Deputy General Manager Rex Kontz, and Navajo Nation Controller Sean McCabe, who played a pivotal role in designing the plan.

"This legislation unites President Nygrens housing and infrastructure priorities with the Councils objectives," Controller McCabe said. "Its a monumental task for my first year, but Im honored to be part of it."

The innovative plan, developed through close collaboration between the Council, Budget & Finance Committee, and FRF Office, aims to protect unobligated ARPA funds from being returned to the U.S. Treasury by the December 31, 2024, deadline. Speaker Curley highlighted the importance of this plan in safeguarding critical regional projects from federal constraints.

"This new plan frees $521 million from federal deadlines and red tape, allowing these vital regional projects to progress," Curley concluded. "We had to act to protect these dollars for our communities future."

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. "

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RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  Thousands of people are traveling to North Carolina for abortions. A new report shows abortions are up in the state since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, and more than a quarter of abortions performed in North Carolina are for out-of-state patients.

A Womans Choice provides abortions at clinics across North Carolina, but many patients are not from the state.

Especially in our Charlotte clinic, we have seen an increase of patients traveling from out of state, noted Amber Gavin, Vice President of Advocacy and Operations at A Womens Choice Clinics. About half of our patients continue to be North Carolinians, but we are seeing patients  a large amount  from South Carolina, Georgia, some from Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and now, of course, Florida.

Those states have more restrictive laws than North Carolina, which bans most abortions after 12 weeks of pregnancy. Gavin says within a week of Floridas 6-week ban taking effect in May, patients were traveling from Florida to North Carolina to access abortions.

Estimates released by the Guttmacher Institute, a research and policy organization that supports abortion rights, show abortions have been up more than 43 percent in North Carolina since 2020.

The proportion of people traveling from other states to get an abortion is also up, from 17 percent in 2020 to 35 percent in 2023. The institute estimates that nearly 6,000 people came from Georgia to North Carolina in 2023, and another 5,700 traveled from South Carolina.

We have been really creative in trying to accommodate more patients, Gavin said. Were opening up different appointment times and we are now open six days a week.

North Carolina has been sort of an interesting state in the post Dobbs decision era, in that we have been both a receiver of patients coming from out of state, and also have had to refer our patients from out of state, added Dr. Jonas Swartz, an assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Duke.

Swartz explained that while patients from states with more restrictive abortion laws are traveling to North Carolina, hes also sending more North Carolina patients out of state since North Carolinas 12-week ban took effect nearly a year ago. While some patients who leave the state are past the 12-week limit, others are earlier in their pregnancies. Swartz noted that the biggest obstacle for many patients is that North Carolina law requires an in-person visit 72 hours before an abortion.

I also provide abortion care in Virginia, Swarz said. Its very common that I will see patients who are under our gestational age limit coming from North Carolina, who say things like, Im a teacher or I work in healthcare. I cant take two days off work to have an abortion in North Carolina. Id rather drive 5 hours to get care in one day.'

Gavin says A Womans Choice opened a clinic in Danville, Virginia in response to the North Carolina law that took effect last year.

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RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  North Carolina teachers and state employees would receive higher salary bumps than are currently planned, while childcare providers could access some financial aid as federal assistance ends in a state budget measure advanced Tuesday by House Republicans.

They are running their own bill that would adjust the second year of the two-year state government budget enacted last fall because private negotiations with Senate GOP counterparts on a consensus spending plan in recent weeks have faltered. Senate leader Phil Berger has complained that House GOP leaders want to spend more than Republicans in his chamber are willing and from reserves.

So House Speaker Tim Moore decided to move a House-only measure through his chamber this week to emphasize their priorities and potentially prod senators to act. But the move raises the threat that legislators could adjourn this summer without a budget law that contains wide-ranging adjustments.

A top House budget writer downplayed the current differences with the Senate, suggesting the two sides were only a couple hundred million dollars apart on spending, largely over teacher pay, a proposed retiree bonus, and Medicaid provider rates.

Its a matter now of taking a few items that are still  I call them stumbling blocks  and getting those resolved the best we can and then get back on track, Rep. Donny Lambeth, a Forsyth County Republican and senior budget co-chairman, said after the budget committee approved the $31.7 billion plan. Lambeth was hopeful a compromise could still be reached next week.

Berger presented a more pessimistic view to reporters late Tuesday, saying the monetary gulf between the Senate and House is much wider and must be closed before senators even work through any sticking points like those Lambeth suggested.

Theyre just spending too much money, and its just not something that were interested in, Berger said.

The bill would set aside $135 million in one-time funds to replace childcare stabilization grants from Washington that began during the pandemic but are to end come July. It falls short of the $300 million that some childcare advocates say is needed to keep centers from raising tuition, laying off workers, or even closing. The Senate has been less inclined to fill the hole.

House Republicans said the $135 million is equivalent to 75% of the stabilization grants currently received and give officials time while looking for a long-term solution.

The enacted second year of the budget already has rank-and-file state employees poised to receive 3% raises in the coming year, with teachers on average also receiving 3% raises. But under the House plan making its way through three committees on Tuesday state employees would see 4% raises instead, while correctional and probation and parole officers would get 9% raises.

Teachers would instead receive an average of 4.4 % in raises, according to Moores office, with early-career instructors obtaining the largest percentage increases. First-year base teacher salaries would grow from $39,000 during this school year to $44,000 in the fall  a move to make North Carolina more attractive to new teachers.

The measure does include provisions passed separately by the Senate last month that would provide over $460 million more to the states Opportunity Scholarship program to help end waiting lists of nearly 55,000 students who are qualified to receive scholarships this fall to attend private K-12 schools. There was a massive increase in program applications after legislators last year did away with income eligibility caps that had limited recipients. The language also would address a higher permanent demand for scholarships.

The bill also spends $350 million already within a state Medicaid reserve fund to address higher-than-anticipated enrollment and $150 million in another reserve to pay for transportation projects designed for a new Toyota electric battery plant being built in Randolph County that will employ thousands.

The bill would head to the Senate after planned House floor votes Wednesday and Thursday. Berger has suggested that his chamber may not offer a competing plan, but will send his colleagues home for an undetermined period if no agreement with the House is reached by June 30. Senators are content with operating government on the current two-year budget, he said.

Any final spending measures would go to Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, who offered his own budget plan in April. He wants to block the expansion of the school voucher program, offer higher raises to teachers and state employees, and spend hundreds of millions of dollars more for child care and early education initiatives. But Republicans hold narrow veto-proof majorities in both chambers, meaning they dont need Coopers support if they remain united.

Democratic Rep. Julie von Haefen of Wake County called the unveiling of the House spending plan really all theater since she said it likely will be ignored by the Senate.

Were going through the motions here, von Haefen told reporters. Theyre not really serious about actually getting things done in this building. She said House Democrats will seek to offer amendments and promote Democratic priorities in floor debate.

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Sen. Natalie Murdock (D-Durham) speaks at a press conference on Tuesday, June 18 promoting the "MOMnibus" bill. (Photo: Ahmed Jallow)

When she found out she was pregnant in 2016, Charity Watkins, a doctoral student at the time, did all the right things, meticulously following all recommended practices to ensure a successful and healthy pregnancy.

I initiated prenatal care my husband and I enrolled in birthing classes, I read books on what to expect, and took extra care to ensure I ate well and exercised throughout my pregnancy, said Watkins, who is Black.

Watkins, a maternal health researcher at Duke University and an assistant professor at North Carolina Central University, actively participated in her obstetrical visits by asking questions, sharing her familys medical history, and joining online communities to learn from other expecting parents.

Still, Watkins said she had a near death experience a day after giving birth, ending up in the intensive care unit with peripartum cardiomyopathy, or pregnancy-related heart failure.

It was only through X-rays  that I finally understood what was happening, Watkins said. But why did it take so long? Why werent my symptoms taken seriously? Why couldnt my doctoral education protect me? she asked. My daughter almost lost her mom, and my husband almost lost his wife.

The U.S. maternal mortality rate is among the worst in the world.

Its worse for Black women.

Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women in the United States.

In North Carolina, maternal mortality rate more than doubled from 2019 to 2021, rising much faster than the national rate, according to a report released last year. Black women accounted for 43% of pregnancy-related deaths in the state from 2020 to 2022, despite comprising only 22% of North Carolinas population.

Democratic state lawmakers are pushing a bill that aims to improve maternal health, specifically addressing disparities affecting Black mothers.

At a news conference Tuesday, where Watkins shared her story, legislators and advocates urged passage of Senate Bill 838, which would establish an implicit bias training program for health care providers in perinatal care and fund grant programs for perinatal education.

The bill, also known as the MOMnibus, would outline the rights of perinatal care patients and while allocating $5 million to implement the changes. The legislation would also have the state Department of Health and Human Resources collect data on the causes of maternal mortality and rates of maternal mortality to inform improvements in future implicit bias trainings.

Senator Natalie Murdock of Durham, a primary sponsor of the bill, urged Republican lawmakers currently crafting a budget in this short legislative session, to allocate funding for the bill. We know our colleagues have bragged about a billion-dollar surplus so I think they can find $5 million, she said.

Black moms and Black babies deserve better, Murdock said. We must invest state dollars to improve these outcomes, and we must pass legislation that directly addresses these issues and racial disparities and inequalities in maternal health.

Black mothers arent the only group suffering from disproportionate health outcomes in North Carolina. While the states infant mortality rate saw a slight improvement from 2021 to 2022, Black babies in North Carolina remain more than twice as likely to die before their first birthdays compared to white babies, according to a CDC report.

We know that  there are those who somehow believe that we take pain differently than we dont need medication, said Rep. Zack Hawkins (D-Durham). But what it does boil down to is that in the medical space, we need to make sure that every doctor that wants to go into the space has the training to deal with all population.

More than 80 percent of maternal deaths are preventable, according to data collected from Maternal Mortality Review Committees. MMRCs are multidisciplinary teams that convene at the state or local level to review deaths during or within 1 year of the end of pregnancy.

We are experiencing a crisis here, said Watkins.

Improving the maternal health of Black women improves the health of all. We cannot afford to wait for action, legislation like the Momnibus Act is needed now; our lives depend on it.

The House budget proposal that was released by Republican lawmakers late Monday does not include the requested funds.

The post NC lawmakers, advocates call for action to address crisis in Black maternal health appeared first on NC Newsline.
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  Democratic Senator Natalie Murdock, Representative Zack Hawkins and other advocates joined together at the General Assembly Tuesday to call attention to black maternal health in North Carolina.

The state leaders introduced Senate Bill 838, also known as MOMnibus 2.5.

The bill expands the original MOMnibus bill. It includes funding for a training program for maternal health care providers, a perinatal education grant program and a training program for community health workers.

State leaders say over 700 women die each year from childbirth and another 50,000 suffer from severe complications.

Black women have the highest rate.

Black women are 3 if not 4 times more likely to die from pregnancy related complications than white women. Here in N.C. black women are 1.8 times more likely to die from childbirth. Two-thirds of these deaths are preventable, said Senator Murdock.

Advocates say one of the reasons for this is because pregnancy rates among black women are more likely to be miscoded.

Charity Watkins knows all too well the complications of childbirth.

She told the crowd she did everything right, often communicated with her doctor, but still had a near death experience a day after giving birth.

Without much explanation and definitely no pain medication manually removed blood clots from my uterus. My father who was just arriving to meet his granddaughter heard my screams from the waiting area, said Watkins.

Advocates say more needs to be done to fix the statistics.

Black moms and black babies deserve better. This $5 million investment is simply a downpayment. They deserve and need much more, said Murdock.

March of Dimes gave the state a preterm birth grade of a D+ on their 2023 report card.

Highlighting this, leaders say theyll continue to do more to help save lives.

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Marijuana products are seen on display at Apothecarium Dispensary on April 21, 2022 in Maplewood, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

Maryland Gov. Wes Moores decision to pardon more than 175,000 low-level marijuana convictions is brave and commendable, said Dawn Blagrove, executive director of Emancipate NC, a nonprofit that fights against mass incarceration and racism.

Its also common sense, Blagrove told NC Newsline this week. Its time that we really allow our laws to catchup with the morals and values of American society as it relates to marijuana.

Dawn Blagrove

Gov. Moores move comes as support for marijuana legalization is growing. A November 2023 Gallup Poll showed that 70% of Americans support marijuana legalization, while 29% of adults believe marijuana should not be legal and 1% are unsure.

NORML, a group that advocates for legalized marijuana, has identified about 2.5 million expungements and pardons for cannabis convictions that have occurred across the country in recent years.

Its also a drop in the bucket when you consider the reality that over the last 50 years or so, over 30 million Americans have been arrested at the state or local level for marijuana, Paul Armentano, NORMLs deputy director, said in a statement posted on the groups website.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration has taken steps to reclassify marijuana as a less serious Schedule III drug from its current location in Schedule I, which places it in a category with the most dangerous and habit-forming substances. Under Schedule III, marijuana would be categorized with drugs that may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence such as anabolic steroids, codeine products with aspirin or Tylenol and certain barbiturates.

To date, 24 states have fully legalized marijuana use for adults. Thirty-eight states currently allow marijuana use for either medical, recreational purposes or both.

In North Carolina, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Tribal Council recently approved recreational marijuana sales on the Qualla Boundary. The tribe earlier approved medical marijuana sales and the use of marijuana on tribal land by anyone age 21 or older.

The North Carolina Senate on Tuesday renewed its effort to pass Senate Bill 3  a measure that would legalize marijuana for certain medical purposes  by amending the language from the bill into a House measure.

Moores move was widely applauded by advocates such as Blagrove who complain that Black people are arrested for violating marijuana possession laws at nearly four times the rate of whites even though both groups consume the drug at the same rates. Those convictions often weigh heavily on Black people by helping to foreclose job, housing and educational opportunities, the critics say.

Gov. Wes Moore signs an executive order

Maryland made history when we legalized cannabis by referendum. But we cannot celebrate the benefits of legalization while forgetting the consequences of criminalization, Moore said in a statement. No Marylander should face barriers to housing, employment, or education based on convictions for conduct that is no longer illegal.

Such pardons could be a game-changer for people struggling to break free of marijuana misdemeanor charges, Blagrove said.

Pardoning those convictions, making them go away, will literally give a new lease on life for anyone who has one of these marijuana convictions on their record, Blagrove said. It will allow them to not have to worry about checking the box on an employment application, not have to worry about disclosing a criminal record if theyre trying to get housing and certainly not serve as a barrier to getting financial aid for college or any number of things.

Blagrove believes that what happened in Maryland should be a model for the rest of the nation.

Now that we are in a place as a nation where marijuana is no longer illegal in a lot of states, its time for the albatross of criminal convictions about marijuana to be removed from the necks of so many Black folks across the country who have been convicted of low-level marijuana charges, Blagrove said.

She called on Gov. Roy Cooper to take the lead in removing low-level marijuana convictions from North Carolina residents records before he leaves office in December.

This is a flashpoint where Gov. Roy Cooper could use the power of the governors office to create a really lasting legacy for the people of North Carolina by pardoning those folks who have [low-level] marijuana convictions, Blagrove said.

In October 2022, President Biden announced pardons for certain offenses of simple possession of marijuana on federal land.

Cooper said he supported the move but stopped short of promising such pardons in North Carolina, as Biden urged governors to do.

North Carolina should take steps to end this stigma, Cooper told media outlets in 2022. Ive also asked our lawyers to examine North Carolina law regarding simple possession of marijuana convictions and pardons to determine if there is action we can and should take.

The post Should NC follow Maryland in pardoning low-level marijuana charges? One advocate thinks it should. appeared first on NC Newsline.
A manager of a medical marijuana dispensary shows marijuana plant buds. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Thirteen months ago, North Carolinas Compassionate Care Act, authorizing the use of medical marijuana, sailed through the Senate, only to find little appetite in the North Carolina House. For months Senate Bill 3 has received little attention, while lawmakers have chipped away at legislation that would regulate the sale and distribution of hemp-derived consumables.

On Wednesday afternoon, all that changed.

Senator Michael Lazzara (R-Onslow) offered an amendment to House Bill 563 that would roll the Compassionate Care Act into the bipartisan hemp legislation.

Sen. Bill Rabon (R-Brunswick), the primary sponsor of the Compassionate Care Act, stood by Lazzaras side and said the addition should not come as a shock to anyone.

We have been working diligently on the Hemp Bill  563  the entire session, and our plan has been to regulate a very possibly dangerous and unregulated product, and we have done that the best we can in 563, said Rabon. We still have a way to go with that, but hopefully we can get it over the finish line this week.

Sen. Bill Rabon

Sen. Rabon said the reality is that different types of cannabis like Delta 8 and Delta 9, already in the marketplace, are very closely related.

Thats not too hard for folks in this room to figure out, he explained. Its just a matter of one coming from the quote-unquote the hemp plant, the other coming from quote-unquote the bad M word, the marijuana plant, both of which have the same genus and the same species being cannabis sativa. So it doesnt take really smart people to see that they are the same thing.

The difference in the two bills is that hemp products can be used by anyone 21 years of age and older upon the passage of the legislation. Medical marijuana would only be used by people at the recommendation of a physician.

It will be a safer product than anything else that you see, promised Rabon.

Lazarras new amendment borrows much of the language from Senate Bill 3 and specifies that to qualify, a patient must be suffering from a debilitating medical condition and have a physician provide written certification.

Cancer, epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder are among more than 15 conditions listed in the bill.

Rabon said his colleagues should consider this bill very much like the Right to Try measure that has won bipartisan support this session.

Weve had the issue clouded and clouded and clouded many times. And in my opinion, when the clouds were that thick, its time for it to rain. And what I would like to do is ask for you to support this amendment, to support this bill when it goes to the floor.

Adding a 35-page amendment to a 26-page bill, as the change does, is unusual, but Sen. Lazarra said changes at the federal level made the addition essential.

I think one of the things we also have to talk about is the potential federal regulatory change, scheduling change. We have an opportunity now to really put some guardrails around this industry, and I think we dont need to miss this opportunity, stressed Lazarra. Its a great time to work together and create the framework for this, which is in SB3 as indicated.

The Biden administration announced in late April plans that would remove marijuana from a list of the most highly regulated drugs.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is now accepting public comments on plans to move cannabis from Schedule I to a less-restrictive Schedule III classification.

More than 22,000 people had commented on the proposed reclassification as of mid-June.

North Carolina remains one of only a dozen states without some form of legal medical marijuana.

The amended version of 563 won the full support of the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday and now heads back to Senate Rules.

The post NCs medical marijuana bill finds new life as state moves to regulate hemp-derived consumables appeared first on NC Newsline.
This undated photo shows fire and smoke at the scene of an explosion at an ammunition depot in the Chadian capital N'Djamena. A huge fire at an ammunition depot occurred Tuesday night in Chadian capital, N'Djamena, causing casualties, according to the country's president, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno. (Xinhua)

YAOUNDE, June 19 (Xinhua) -- At least nine people have been killed and 46 others injured following an explosion at an ammunition warehouse in Chad's capital, N'Djamena, the country's Minister of Public Health, Abdelmadjid Abderrahim said on Wednesday.

The cause of the fire and explosions, which occurred late Tuesday, is not yet known, Abderrahim told a press conference.

Local media reported that civilians, including children, were among the victims.

Early Wednesday, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno visited those injured and the disaster site, located at the city's Goudji neighborhood.

"The situation is under control. The state will take care of those that were injured," Deby told reporters after the visit.

"This serves as a lesson to us concerning the construction of weapons warehouses in cities. We need to abide by international norms," he said, adding that a commission has been created to investigate the tragedy. 

This undated photo shows fire and smoke at the scene of an explosion at an ammunition depot in the Chadian capital N'Djamena. A huge fire at an ammunition depot occurred Tuesday night in Chadian capital, N'Djamena, causing casualties, according to the country's president, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno. (Xinhua)
NC medical marijuana legalization resurfaces, this time paired with a ban on 3 other drugs

In another attempt at passing medical marijuana in North Carolina, state senators tacked on new language on legalization to a bill regulating hemp and banning other drugs.

During a Senate judiciary committee Wednesday, Sen. Michael Lazzara, a Republican from Onslow County, called for an amendment adding what appears to be the entirety of the language of the NC Compassionate Care Act to House Bill 563.

The Compassionate Care Act would allow medical marijuana use statewide for people who have cancer, ALS, Parkinsons disease, epilepsy, post-traumatic stress disorder and other ailments. It also establishes a licensing system.

This is not the first time the Senate has attempted to force a vote on medical marijuana.

Last year, Senate Republicans attempted to revive the Compassionate Care Act . The marijuana bill was added as an amendment to a House bill up for a vote on the Senate floor.

The House bill with the amendment passed the Senate but did not pass the House. House Speaker Tim Moore said there was not enough support from House members to move the bill forward.

A similar iteration of the Compassionate Care Act also passed the Senate in 2022 but languished in the House.

The latest move comes as House and Senate Republicans are locked in a standoff over the budget. The House was set to approve a budget proposal that is expected to stall in the Senate, as Republicans in both chambers continue to try to negotiate a potential spending deal.

Regulating hemp and marijuana

HB 563, in addition to now legalizing medical marijuana, would prohibit the sale to and purchase of hemp and hemp-derived products by a person under 21. It also would add kratom, xylazine and tianeptine to the states list of controlled substances.

Sen. Bill Rabon, a main sponsor of the Compassionate Care Act, said Wednesday the attempt to add his bill to this one probably did not come as a shock to anyone.

We have been working diligently on the hemp bill, 563, said Rabon, a Brunswick County Republican, and our plan has been to regulate...a possibly dangerous and unregulated product.

At the same time, for the better part of the last decade, we have been trying to get a bill (with) highly controlled (medical marijuana) across the finish line.

The bills being combined are very closely related, he said, referring to the chemical similarity between hemp and marijuana, which both stem from the cannabis plant.

In 2018, the federal government removed hemp  defined as a derivative of cannabis with less than 0.3% of delta-9 THC  from the definition of marijuana. In 2022, North Carolina followed suit in legalization of hemp.

The bill passed the judiciary committee and now moves to the rules committee.

Should it pass the Senate, its unclear whether itll get backing in the House.

Under the Dome

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Netanyahu Tells US Give Us the Tools and Well Finish the Job

(Bloomberg) -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said President Joe Biden is withholding weapons amid the war against Hamas as his country is fighting for its life, an accusation the White House denied.

Most Read from Bloomberg

In an English-language video released Tuesday, Netanyahu said he told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit to Israel last week that he appreciates Washingtons support but that its inconceivable that weapons or ammunition have been held back in the past few months.

That video angered the White House and prompted the Biden administration to cancel a high-level meeting with Israel about Iran that was scheduled for Thursday, Axios reported, citing two US officials. US envoy Amos Hochstein delivered the administrations frustration directly in a meeting with Netanyahu, according to the report.

US officials didnt immediately respond to a question about the meeting. Earlier, the White House denied that any weapons are being withheld beyond a previous decision to hold back on the delivery of some bombs. We genuinely do not know what hes talking about, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters. We just dont.

The Biden administration has become increasingly critical of Israels offensive in the Gaza Strip to root out Hamas, the group designated a terrorist organization by the US and European Union that killed more than 1,200 Israelis and abducted more than 250 on Oct. 7, triggering the ongoing war. More than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, which doesnt differentiate between combatants and civilians.

Biden previously held back a shipment of 2,000-pound bombs to signal his frustration and said last month that he would halt additional shipments of offensive weapons if the country launched a full-scale ground invasion of Rafah. Israeli tanks were reported to have reached the center of the town May 28, in what the military called a limited and precise set of operations.

Blinken told reporters Tuesday that aside from that one shipment, everything else is moving as it normally would move.

Earlier: Israel Pauses Combat on Road in Gaza to Allow for More Aid

Netanyahu didnt specify which weapons or ammunition supposedly had been withheld by the US, Israels biggest arms supplier. The Israeli leader added that Blinken assured him the administration is working day and night to remove any bottlenecks. His office didnt respond to follow-up questions.

Netanyahu, whos scheduled to address the US Congress in late July, invoked the World War II plea of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Churchill told the United States: Give us the tools, well do the job, Netanyahu said. And I say, give us the tools and well finish the job a lot faster.

Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, who has urged a pause in the transfer of offensive weapons to Israel until it agrees to conditions on their use, scoffed in an interview Tuesday that Netanyahu wants to come here and pretend hes Winston Churchill  and he is no Winston Churchill.

US officials have said privately that Israel has enough weapons for its Rafah campaign, as well as additional stockpiles if the conflict in the north with Hezbollah escalates.

Two key Democratic holdouts in the House and Senate signed off on a major arms sale to Israel, including 50 F-15 fighter jets valued at more than $18 billion, following pressure from the White House and pro-Israel advocates, the Washington Post reported on Tuesday.

--With assistance from Ethan Bronner, Courtney McBride, Steven T. Dennis, Iain Marlow, Jennifer Jacobs, Eric Martin and Justin Sink.

(Adds report of US-Israel meeting getting canceled in third paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The Nevada State Contractors Board suspended Titan Solar of Nevadas license Tuesday after it learned of Titan closing its office in Las Vegas, the 8 News Now Investigators have confirmed.

Titan Solar has a disciplinary hearing before the contractors board in July due to a spate of complaints from homeowners and accusations from the boards prosecutors that Titan has abandoned job sites, diverted funds, delayed installations and worked beyond the scope of what their license  and the law  allows.

Solar companys license revoked, fined $460K for flagrant behavior

Earlier this year, Titan had as many as 50 complaints against them. Last month, that number was 21, but a spokeswoman from Titan Solar said that the company had whittled that number to three.

A contractors board spokesman confirmed the July disciplinary hearing will take place regardless of whether Titan is still in business. However the summary suspension of Titans license means the company cannot perform any business-related service, the spokesman told the 8 News Now Investigators.

Phone calls and messages to Titans spokeswoman, who regularly provides timely statements and responses on behalf of the solar company, have gone unanswered. A phone call  also unanswered  to Titans Arizona headquarters is forwarded to the spokeswomans cell phone.

Two lock boxes hang from the front door of Titans office building, which was shuttered and dark during a visit Tuesday during business hours to 3570 West Post Road. in Las Vegas.

Public records dated in May and June show that the West Post Road office building was sold from a Nevada LLC with an address in Arizona that matches Titans Chandler address to LGC Post Road, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. The Los Angeles address on the deed for LGC tracks to an investment firm named Ledo Capital Group in Los Angeles. The name of Ledos principal, Anthony J. Brent, is typed on the first two pages of the deed from Titan to LGC. The sale price, the deed shows, is $4.5 million.

Titans attorney, Donald Williams, did not return an email or phone call seeking comment and confirmation of whether Titan had ceased operations in Las Vegas and/or Nevada as a whole. Williams and Titans president, Kenneth M. Williams, blamed the 8 News Now Investigators, in part, for some of its struggles.

Nevada State Contractors Board extends existing probation against Las Vegas solar company

We believe that some of the complaints, if not many of the complaints, are a result of, frankly, the news covering this matter, Kenneth Williams said at a hearing of the contractors board in May.

Las Vegas woman fights back against solar company claiming it destroyed her house

The 8 News Now Investigators have reported on the plight of several homeowners who felt wronged by Titan Solar.

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.
SACRAMENTO, California  Gavin Newsom and Ron DeSantis have spent years hurling political and policy grenades from their blue and red state capitols  the personification of a nation riven by partisan warring.

But the California Democrat and the Florida Republican now find themselves converging on an issue thats gained a surprising amount of bipartisan support: outright banning, or severely curtailing, children from using smartphones at schools.

That doesnt mean the popular policy will erase the long-running grudge match.

DeSantis last year moved to own the issue with his first-in-the-nation ban. On Tuesday, Newsom followed suit, telling POLITICO he is planning to sign legislation this year to adopt tighter restrictions on smartphones in classrooms. DeSantis team revived the rivalry with a jab to claim Florida got there first. There may still be a chance to come back from the brink, DeSantis spokesperson Bryan Griffin wrote online, a reference to the low esteem they hold California in.

Newsom was careful to note that he signed legislation  in 2019, well before DeSantis  to encourage school districts to move in that direction. He also wrote a letter calling on the tech industry to drop a lawsuit against the childrens online safety law he signed in 2022. His team declined to comment on the swipe from DeSantis world.

The exceedingly rare moment of policy agreement between the partisan warriors serves as a reminder of the intense gridlock in Washington. It also highlights a similarity thats vanished almost entirely from a country that is being forced to choose between a president in his 80s and a former president who is approaching octogenarian status. Both DeSantis and Newsom are fathers of young children  a demographic thats increasingly unable to elude Big Techs vortex.



Some parents across the U.S. have also expressed serious concerns about the bans  driven in part by their worst nightmares of needing to contact their children during mass shootings like the February 2018 tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

But the issue continues to resonate with policymakers and parents, including the Newsoms. First partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom at an event last month pointed to studies and contended that tech companies have been blocking efforts to protect children.

Were sadly being held back by capitalist interests, the first partner said at the Milken Institute Global Conference. For me, legislation is necessary if the tech companies arent going to be more transparent.

On Tuesday, hours after Newsom telegraphed his plans to POLITICO, Los Angeles school board  which governs the nations second-largest district  moved to ban cellphones on campus, aiming to put the policy in place by January 2025.

Newsom has yet to identify the legislative vehicle for his push, but one measure he could back would be California Republican Assemblymember Josh Hoovers measure that would require school districts to limit or ban smartphones on campus by 2026. Hoover, who has three school-aged children and called the issue very personal, told POLITICO that Newsoms announcement was a game-changer and that he was grateful for the governors stance. He has reached out to the governors office and is willing to work with Newsom on the measure.

In today's hyper-partisan age, where we see just these hyper-partisan battles between governors and legislatures and politicians, I think it's really encouraging to see an area where we can actually come together as leaders  regardless of party, and work on something to help our kids, Hoover said.

State Sen. Henry Stern, a Democrat from Los Angeles who is pushing a measure to restrict social media use in school settings and has signed onto Hoovers proposal, cheered Newsoms announcement and called the seldom seen agreement between the two governors a sign of progress.

In a super divided country where people see black as white and white as black, if we can start to get alignment across a very wide aisle  yeah, that's progress, Stern said.

Josh Lowenthal, a Democratic assemblymember in California who is a joint author on Hoovers bill, agreed that the two governors coming together underscores the scope of this problem. He told POLITICO that the yearslong, bipartisan effort in Sacramento to shield kids from the harms of social media has been one of mutual respect.

Everyone is focused on results, as opposed to theater, Lowenthal said. And most of us are also parents, so we don't have a lot of tolerance for politics to get in the way of potentially negative impacts on our kids development.

The Newsom-DeSantis standoff has largely been dormant since the Florida Republican ended his presidential bid and returned to Tallahassee. It reached its apex during and in the immediate aftermath of their 95-minute slugfest on Fox News last November.

The Biden administration this week warned the threat social media poses to kids is so acute that Congress should compel apps to include warning labels similar to cigarettes and alcohol. Indiana and Tennessee also have laws authorizing school districts to restrict cellphone use. And in Canada, officials in Alberta are moving to join a growing list of provinces restricting smartphone use in schools, citing the disruption to learning and the mental health harms to students.



Florida in 2023 became the earliest state to take the harder line on mobile phones in schools by passing the law boosted by DeSantis to get students to pay more attention in class. The measure, supported unanimously by Republicans and Democrats, prohibits students from using cellphones during instruction time and also tackled social media use by blocking students from accessing websites  namely TikTok  while using school internet.

I think a school district would be totally within their rights to say, You know what, leave your phone in some cubby or something, go sit in class and learn, and if you get it at recess and you want to text people, fine, DeSantis said as the legislation made its way to his desk last year. But they should not be on their phones being distracted from the lessons.

Schools across Florida are revising cellphone policies even now, as they face concerns from parents and students about when the devices should be available for use. Some school districts are allowing phones to be out during lunch while others have stricter rules. Some officials say they have seen amazing results since banning devices.

At Orange County Public Schools in Florida, for example, the district has a bell to bell no cellphone rule that has sparked more classroom interactions and conversations, according to Superintendent Maria Vazquez.

We started to see young people more engaged with their peers and adults, Vazquez said during a recent state of schools address, reflecting on the first year of the policy.

Several California Democrats also said they agreed with Surgeon General Vivek Murthys calls on Monday for Congress to require warning labels similar to cigarettes and alcohol. And Democratic Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, who chairs the privacy committee, said she would support California passing its own warning label policy if Congress stalls.

Andrew Atterbury contributed to this report.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story misidentified which state the Orange County Public Schools superintendent is from.
Newsom wants to limit phones in schools. Which Sacramento-area districts already do?

Gov. Gavin Newsom is backing proposals to limit the use of smartphones in schools.

When children and teens are in school, they should be focused on their studies  not their screens, Newsom, a father to four school-aged children, said in a statement Tuesday.

The announcement comes a day after U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called for a warning label on social media platforms, like those on cigarette containers, citing negative effects on youth mental health.

Adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media face double the risk of anxiety and depression symptoms, and the average daily use in this age group, as of the summer of 2023, was 4.8 hours, Murthy wrote in a New York Times op-ed. A surgeon generals warning label, which requires congressional action, would regularly remind parents and adolescents that social media has not been proved safe.

Nearly three-quarters of high school teachers and a third of middle school teachers see cell phone distractions as a major problem in the classroom, according to a recent study by the Pew Research Center. After banning cell phones, schools in Spain and the United Kingdom saw reduced levels of bullying and improved test scores. A private school in Naples, Fla. reported improvements in student mental well-being, test scores and social skills after banning phones two years ago.

A 2019 California law allows school districts to adopt policies to limit cell phones in classrooms, but it has had mixed uptake.

In the Sacramento area, a few school districts have already started to implement policies limiting cell phone use during school hours. Folsom Cordova Unified School District banned the use of mobile devices at its middle schools at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year. The schools used Yondr pouches, which secure phones during the day while allowing students to keep the phone on their person.

Roseville City School District is the most recent local district to adopt a policy to limit cell phone use on its campuses. Beginning in the fall, middle school students in the district must keep their phones off from the moment they arrive at school until the moment school ends.

As the Surgeon General affirmed, social media is harming the mental health of our youth, Newsom said. Building on legislation I signed in 2019, I look forward to working with the Legislature to restrict the use of smartphones during the school day.

Newsom did not endorse a specific bill, but there are at least two moving through the legislature that would deal with phones in schools. One, authored by Assembly member Josh Hoover, R-Folsom, would require school districts to develop and regularly update policies limiting smartphones in classrooms. Another from Sen. Henry Stern, D-Los Angeles, would let districts limit social media use on campus.

The California School Boards Association supports Sterns bill but opposes Hoovers. Spokesman Troy Flint said these decisions are best made at the local level by people who understand, reside, are invested in, and accountable to the communities they serve.

We support legislation, such as SB 1283, that empowers school board members to restrict or limit school cell phone usage on campus if that decision makes the most sense for their students and local communities. We oppose legislation that would require school districts to prohibit cell phone usage as a blanket measure with no consideration given to the varying demographics, opinions, lifestyles, and needs of students and families in different parts of the state, he said.

Hoovers office discussed his bill with the governors staff Tuesday, according to a spokesperson for the Republican lawmaker. A spokesperson for Stern did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
NHS nurse faked CV and claimed to have been shot in Afghanistan

A senior NHS nurse faked qualifications on her CV and pretended to have been shot in Afghanistan to obtain her job, a court has heard.

Tanya Nasir, 45, was a ward manager on the neonatal unit at the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend, South Wales.

Cardiff Crown Court heard that Ms Nasir had been put in charge of caring for sick and premature infants after saying she had the same role at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London.

However, the court was told how she was caught fabricating her qualifications and experience to secure the job, with her alleged fraud placing the most vulnerable of patients at risk.

Ms Nasir had been a ward manager on the neonatal unit for five months until she was suspended by health chiefs, after fraud was allegedly discovered during a three-yearly validation of her nursing and midwifery council registration when her line manager noticed inconsistencies in her CV.

Prosecutor Emma Harris said Ms Nasir claimed to have worked with premature babies at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital between 2010 and 2015, but there was no record of her being employed there.

She also claimed to have worked for the West Hertfordshire Hospitals Trust and in the adult intensive care unit at Watford General Hospital, the court heard.

Ms Harris said there was no record of such employment and she provided further false information on application forms when she applied for the job in Wales with the Cwm Taf Morgannwg health board.

They went further than exaggerating or embellishing her qualifications. They contained degrees which she simply did not hold, they contained experience which she did not and could not have obtained, she said.

The court heard Ms Nasirs fake qualifications included degrees in physics from Hatfield Polytechnic and a BSc in operating department management from the University of West London.

Her registration document with the Health and Care Professions Council, which she needed to become a ward manager, was also alleged to be false.

The jury was told that Ms Nasir had also falsely claimed to have served in a number of roles with the Army, including as a platoon commander and combat medical officer with the Royal Medical Corps, in the rank of major.

However, she had failed the basic fitness test for the Army Reserve in 2010.

The court heard she spent three years with the Army Cadet Force before being discharged and struck off in 2016 at the rank of sergeant instructor, and she had never seen active service or been deployed overseas.

A further claim that she had obtained a PGCE from the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst to become a qualified Army teaching instructor was also false, the prosecutor said.

The court was told an email address for Matthew Nash-Yearwood  a major in the Cadet Force who was given as a referee on Ms Nasirs CV  was a fake account operated by Ms Nasir.

Ms Harris said Ms Nasir was convicted of benefit fraud in 2010 and failed to tell university chiefs when she was studying for a nursing diploma.

But Ms Nasir allegedly fabricated a letter from the Probation Service, saying she was not under any obligation to disclose her convictions.

The jury was told education chiefs at Buckinghamshire New University believed the letter to be genuine so allowed her to continue the course.

She also allegedly provided false reference information on job applications and told bosses she had been shot at while serving in Afghanistan.

Nasir, of Rickmansworth, Herts, denies nine counts of fraud.

The trial, which is due to last for a month before Judge Richard Kember, continues.

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Nine killed in blasts at Chad ammunition depot, health minister says

N'DJAMENA (Reuters) - At least nine people were killed and more than 46 injured in blasts caused by a fire at a military ammunition depot in Chad's capital on Tuesday night, health minister Abdelmadjid Abderahim said.

The death toll could rise as many people suffered serious injuries, Abderahim told reporters on Wednesday.

The explosions lit up the night sky over the military base near the central African nation's main international airport and sent spent shells flying into nearby homes where terrified residents struggled to find cover.

On Wednesday morning President Mahamat Idriss Deby visited the site where wrecked cars and twisted metal littered the ground around a crater.

(Reporting by Mahamat Ramadane; Writing by Bate Felix; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
At Nixa High School, students will be required to store their cellphones in a central location at the start of each class. Teachers can use locking pouches or a numbered pocket organizer like this one, which can also used for calculators.

This fall, the nearly 2,000 students at Nixa High School will be expected to turn over their cellphones each time they enter a classroom.

The cellphones will then be stored by the teacher in a central location, like a wall organizer or a locking pouch, until the bell rings.

Principal David Kelly said the change was requested by teachers and will be reflected in the student handbook that is distributed at the start of the 2024-25 school year.

The new approach was briefly discussed during a recent school board meeting and will be widely communicated to students and their families before the first day of class.

"I'm sure there is going to be pushback," Kelly said Monday. "In a school the size we are now you are not ever going to have 100% agreement on anything."

The rules for student cellphone use in Nixa High School have changed for the 2024-25 year.

With the change, Nixa joins a growing number of districts in Missouri that placed new restrictions on cellphone use, with many citing national research on the impact of cellphone use on students' mental health, social skills, and behavior issues.

"It was something more and more of our teachers were moving towards over the last couple of years," Kelly said of restricting cellphone use by students. "It just felt it was time to take that step as a building and ensure consistency across our classrooms."

Kelly added: "Teachers were asking for more consistency."

Nixa Public Schools started with an outright ban on student cellphones and that remains the case in the elementary, intermediate and junior high buildings.

Kelly said eight years ago, when he was assistant principal, the rules changed for the high school. It allowed students to use cellphones during lunch, passing periods and a midday intervention period.

But, during instructional time, the cellphones were to be put away, and that responsibility fell to teachers.

"We had varying degrees of enforcement within the classroom," he said. "Depending on what classroom you walked in, and depending on what teacher you had, you would see a different expectation."

Locking pouches, like the one shown here, are used in some Missouri public schools to restrict student cellphone use in classrooms.

Kelly said the change coming this fall will take the responsibility off teachers' shoulders because the rules will be the same in each classroom. However, teachers will designate a central drop-of spot in class and how the cellphones will be stored.

"That may look like a calculator holder and may, in some classes, be a cellphone lockbox," he said. "We are going to leave it up to the teacher and allow them to decide what best works for their style of classroom management."

Kelly said teachers can permit cellphone use in class for an instructional purpose. For example, listening to music in an advanced art class.

"If you walk into that class, you are going to see the students working on their projects with their earbuds in," Kelly said. "In that classroom, it works well. Students listen to music while working on a painting or drawing. It helps get those creative juices flowing."

More: Springfield district's new plan spells out what technology is used in schools and why

He said exceptions will be granted in rare circumstances if part of an Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan, which outlines accommodations for special needs. For example, a student with Type 1 diabetes may use a skin sensor and smartphone app to monitor blood sugar levels.

The high school administration took the step in an effort to improve "cognitive engagement," Kelly said.

"Whenever you're learning something new or you're engaging in a task, you're using brain power. The more focused you can be on the task at hand, the better the outcome," he said.

David Kelly

Kelly said the change will also allow students to "unplug a little" and train students there is a time to put phones away to focus on learning or engaging with others.

"Hopefully, we can teach students those skills," he said. "They're going to need those skills when they transition to the workforce or even to college."

The Christian County district has a board-approved policy on electronic devices but specific rules are reflected in the student handbooks.

Asked what consequences a student will face if they break the cellphone rule, Kelly said it won't change. Here is the scope and sequence:

First infraction  Verbal warning, including a referral that goes to the office;

Second infraction  One day of detention after school;

Third infraction  Two days of detention after school;

Fourth infraction  One day of in-school suspension.

"We just stick with one day of in-school suspension throughout the year so if you get a fifth (infraction), it's just one day and so on," he said.

Kelly said he hopes that once students understand why the change was made, they will embrace it.

"My hope would be a year from now that you'd see more interaction amongst our students ... increased verbal, face-to-face interaction," he said. "This might sound a little bit like a high hope, but I'd like to see some signs that the mental health of our students is in a better place because they are able to unplug from time to time."

He added: "Then, ultimately, hopefully it has a positive impact on learning in the classroom environment."

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Nixa High School will implement stricter student cellphone rules
Lawyers for George Norcross and his co-defendants spent a second day ripping the credibility of New Jersey's attorney general after he indicted the Democratic power broker in what he called a years-long criminal enterprise.

They described the indictment as a "provocative" but flawed document that resurrects old allegations that other agencies declined to pursue. One characterized it as an "embarrassment" that won't hold up in court.

"I don't think there's any one fact that's new, that already wasn't hashed and rehashed over the years," Norcross attorney Michael Critchley said in an interview Tuesday.

"It's not based upon reality. It's not based upon new facts. It's based upon stale facts that have been tossed over," he added. "That's why we say it's a political vendetta."

State Attorney General Matt Platkin's office did not return a message seeking comment.

The indictment stretches back over a decade and covers areas that had been reported on by multiple news outlets over the years, such as Norcross and his associates' involvement in state tax credit awards in his native South Jersey and development deals along the Delaware River waterfront. A state task force investigated tax breaks in 2019, when Platkin was chief counsel for Gov. Phil Murphy, and issued a scathing report saying the state improperly awarded hundreds of millions of dollars in tax credits.

Authorities had looked into tax breaks years before and, in 2016, federal investigators in Pennsylvania tapped Norcross' phone. In 2018, the U.S. Attorney's Office for New Jersey told Critchley in a letter that it looked into Norcross' connection to tax credits and "that no further action is warranted." The attorney general's office issued subpoenas related to tax credits in 2019, under a different attorney general, but charges weren't brought until Monday.

Lawyers for Norcross and his co-defendants questioned the lag.

"This has been looked at more times than 'Rocky' sequels  over and over and over and over and over  and nothing came of it," Critchley said. "And all of a sudden, Matt Platkin, who himself is trying to basically use his position to run for elected office ... just wanted a bank of reporters in front of him so he could have his press conference."

Platkin's indictment of Norcross is one of two extraordinary actions he's taken in recent months thrusting him into the spotlight. During the Senate Democratic primary, he took the rare step of weighing in on an election lawsuit that went against the interest of first lady Tammy Murphy, saying the state's infamous ballot line system was unconstitutional.

Now Platkin is among a crop of young Democrats who could play a significant role in transitioning New Jersey politics into a new era.

One of the other defense attorneys, Kevin Marino, dismissed Platkin's legal skills, saying he had little experience before becoming the state's top law enforcement official.

"And he has decided in his infinite wisdom, and based on his many minutes of experience, that he is going to bring this sort of an indictment. I cannot find a crime in here," he said.
YANGON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized 1.16 million stimulant tablets in southern Myanmar's Bago Region, the state-run newspaper The Mirror Daily reported on Wednesday.

Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched a farmhouse in Pandaung Township in Bago Region on June 16 and confiscated the stimulant tablets.

The seized drugs had a street value of 1.74 billion kyats (about 0.82 million U.S. dollars), the report said.

Twelve suspects who were connected with the case have been charged under the Southeast Asian country's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law. Further investigations are ongoing, it added. 
ELIZABETH  Mayor Christian Bollwage reminded NJ Transit CEO and President Kevin Corbett that he committed to get the 131-year-old city train station renovation completed after years of stalling under the prior administration.

Within months of joining the public transportation agency in 2018, Corbett announced NJ Transit would break ground on the $74 million project to lengthen platforms for longer trains, bring the station into compliance with the federal American with Disabilities Act, renovate the facility and beautify it with a mural and other cultural artworks.

The station fully reopened Tuesday and is the centerpiece of a city trying to enhance its downtown with new development, said Bollwage, who is also a Port Authority commissioner. Unique touches of the city can be seen throughout the renovated building interior and along the fencing, including the iconic arches that support the tracks and a nearby church that dates to the 17th century.

What did officials say?

While New Jersey Transit builds a new Elizabeth train station, access to stairs, platforms and accessible boarding will be limited during construction.

"The members of the city council worked together to make sure this area gets revitalized  theres a 280-unit housing complex just to my left ... attracting people who can use this train station," Bollwage said. "The (Department of Environmental Protection) in New Jersey just informed us last week that theyre going to work with us and purchase 5.5 acres from NJ Transit in order to create open space and a pedestrian walkway to the train station."

State Sen. Joe Cryan, who lives in Union and represents Elizabeth, reminded the crowd that getting this station completed was a years-long process and among the many projects the community has had to fight to get funded. Lengthy waiting and pushing to get overdue repairs and accessibility upgrades was also a theme of a NJ Transit groundbreaking last month at Brick Church Station in East Orange that is set to receive $83 million in improvements after persistent community advocacy.

Plans to renovate the Elizabeth Train Station were first unveiled in 2015 when the project was estimated to cost $55 million. The project stalled amid disputes with then-Gov. Chris Christie over how the renovation would be paid for. The project ended up costing $74.5 million and opened two years after construction was estimated to be completed in 2022, but by the time of publication NJ Transit had not provided an explanation about the increased cost or construction delays. Annual federal formula funds were used to pay for $58 million of the project. An emailed question about what source of funds covered the remaining $16.5 million was not yet answered.

"This one took a while ... (but) the reality is that you never wavered on this commitment," Cryan said to Corbett. "The experience is a thousand, thousand times better and for the city it means a thousand more opportunities to grow, to connect and to show off the best city in the state of New Jersey."

Trenton makes: Murphy's corporate transit fee proposal to pay for NJ Transit may be getting complicated

More than $6B spent on Murphy's watch

Since Murphy became governor, with Corbett at the helm, NJ Transit has advanced nearly $6 billion in construction and capital upgrades throughout the statewide system of buses, trains, light rail and disability van services, which is up from just $60 million in hard-money contracts during the last year of Christie's administration.

"NJT is currently at work on 20 on rail stations in active stages of development, ranging from construction to additional planning  by far the largest investment in our system than in any similar period in the 40-year history of NJ Transit," Corbett said.

But the agency has a deep backlog of overdue projects, accessibility renovations, and upgrades to more advanced technology like electric buses or expansions of the system, like bringing the light rail into Bergen County or increasing capacity into New York Penn Station. That problem is exacerbated annually when the governor and Legislature siphon hundreds of millions from NJ Transit's tight capital budget to pay for operating expenses.

Investment in transit, Corbett said, "not only does it make commuter life experience better, but it improves property values, it benefits well beyond just the station by means of transforming this neighborhood."

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Elizabeth NJ train station reopened after renovation
Agents of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) suspected that Bryan Malinowski, executive director of the airport in Little Rock, Arkansas, and an avid firearms collector, was reselling enough firearms at gun shows to make him more of a commercial dealer than a hobbyist. That meant he should, in the ATF's view, get a Federal Firearms License. So on March 19, agents did what law enforcers do when they suspect people of paperwork violations: They raided his home before dawn, taped over the doorbell camera, and shot Malinowski dead less than a minute later when he opened fire on intruders who had just busted in his front door.

Unsurprisingly, the ATF agents are on their way to evading consequences for causing a man's death over a paperwork violation.

Self-Defense, But for Who?

"A law enforcement officer is justified in using deadly physical force if the officer reasonably believes that the use of force is necessary to defend himself or a third person from the use of deadly force," Sixth Judicial District Prosecutor Will Jones writes in his letter to ATF Special Agent Joshua Jackson absolving the agent who killed Malinowski of legal liability. "Given the totality of the circumstances, Agent 2 had a reasonable belief that deadly force was necessary to defend himself and Agent 1. Therefore, the use of deadly force by Agent 2 was in accordance with Arkansas law and was justified."

Of course, Malinowski himself might have felt justified in using deadly force given that the front door to his family's home had been battered down just seconds after strangers began banging on the door.

"Had he survived he was almost certainly entitled to claim self-defense in the wounding of the agent based on the reckless manner in which the government planned and executed the search," Bud Cummins, a former U.S. Attorney who represents the Malinowski family, told me.

A Rules-Defying Raid

Reckless is right. In 2021, the Justice Department issued guidance to federal agencies on the use of chokeholds and no-knock raids. The raid on Malinowski's home falls well outside that guidance.

"Because of the risk posed to both law enforcement and civilians during the execution of 'no knock' warrants, it is important that this authority be exercised only in the most compelling circumstances," Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco wrote. "An agent may seek judicial authorization to conduct a 'no knock' entry only if that agent has reasonable grounds to believe at the time the warrant is sought that knocking and announcing the agent's presence would create an imminent threat of physical violence to the agent and/or another person."

Malinowski was a prominent member of the communityhe's still listed on the Little Rock website as executive director of the Bill & Hillary Clinton National Airportsuspected of sliding from the category of a hobbyist selling off unwanted guns to a dealer engaged in commercial activity. That's not a real crime involving victims, only a technical violation that could be made legal (matters of right and constitutionality aside) by getting the required license. Surely, the ATF agents must have had more to go on than that before kicking in Malinowski's door?

The ATF didn't respond to my queries. But the affidavit for the search warrant in the case focuses entirely on Malinowski's sales at gun shows and mentions that a few were later involved in crimes. There's no hint that Malinowski posed a danger.

"Malinowski was solely suspected of violating ATF's unconstitutionally vague rules about qualifying as a 'person, engaged in the business of selling firearms' based on subjective observations about his appearance as an exhibitor at occasional gun shows," Cummins, the Malinowskis' attorney, told me. Speaking from experience, he added, "this is undoubtedly, the least serious crime that a U.S. attorney's office would even trifle with."

"Unconstitutionally vague" is a nice way of describing rules that might get your door kicked in if ATF agents read the wrong tea leaves or just don't like you.

Legality Is a Matter of Interpretation

"Federal law does not establish a 'bright-line' rule for when a federal firearms license is required," according to ATF's official guidance for the public, updated last year. "As a result, there is no specific threshold number or frequency of sales, quantity of firearms, or amount of profit or time invested that triggers the licensure requirement. Instead, determining whether you are 'engaged in the business' of dealing in firearms requires looking at the specific facts and circumstances of your activities."

Malinowski may well have read those amorphous guidelines and come to very different conclusions about the nature of his activity than did an ATF agent who woke up in a bad mood. He could have assumed his steady job and established hobby demonstrated that he was not a commercial dealer, while ATF agents decided differently. According to Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones, who says the ATF did nothing wrong, those differing interpretations got the Malinowski front door knocked on at 6:02:59 am on March 19, the door rammed open at 6:03:27 am, and Bryan Malinowski fatally shot at 6:03:44 am.

Don't Count on Consequences

After the release of the local prosecutor's report exonerating the agent who killed Malinowski, the ATF will conduct an internal review of its agents' conduct. You can probably guess how that will go. But some elected officials are also concerned. Members of the House Judiciary Committee grilled ATF Director Steven Dettelbach last month about the propriety of the no-knock raid and the justification for the lack of cameras.

"You got a citizen, the highest paid official in the municipal government of Little Rock Arkansas, making 260,000 a year running the airport. No criminal background history, no nothing. And he's dead at a pre-dawn raid when it sure looks like you could have served this search warrant when he wasn't there," Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) snapped at Dettelbach.

Here's a thought: Malinowski's death at the hands of ATF agents is getting wide notice because he was a prominent, prosperous man. What about the people without resources and connections who get raided, set up for sleazy busts, or otherwise abused based on the mood of agents interpreting conveniently vague federal rules in whatever way suits their prejudicesrules that are impossible to reconcile with individual rights and the plain language of the Second Amendment.

Despite Malinowski's prominence, his brutal death at the hands of an ATF agent looks like it will go unpunished. Unfortunately, the agent who killed him won't be the first one who got away with murder.

The post No Charges in ATF Killing Over Paperwork Firearms Violation appeared first on Reason.com.
No Democrat has run for Canyon County Commission since 2010. Does this one have a chance?

Canyon County, neighbor to the more-liberal-leaning Ada County, has long been known as a place where Democratic candidates rarely win elections. They rarely even try.

For over a decade, no Democrats have filed to run for the Canyon County Commission, according to records obtained by the Idaho Statesman. But Kyle Thompson changed that in the May primary election.

Thompson garnered 2,190 votes as the unopposed Democratic candidate in District 3, which covers Nampa. He will face incumbent Republican Zach Brooks, who won 11,890 votes to overcome challenger Richard D. Williamss 8,219, in the general election Nov. 5.

In a county where registered Democrats make up just 11% of registered voters, does Thompson have a chance?

Thompson says hes running for choice, democracy

Thompson, a 27-year-old Nampa resident who works in information technology, knows he faces an uphill battle. He hopes to win his election, but he says that more than that, his candidacy is about upholding democracy.

We have a problem here in Idaho where we are not really ruled by democracy, he said.

About 24% of registered voters statewide cast their ballots in the May primary, according to the Idaho Capital Sun. According to the Idaho Secretary of States Office, Republican voters make up 51% of registered voters in Canyon County. Unaffiliated voters, who are barred from voting in the Republican primary, make up 33%.

To Thompson, if just 20% of Canyon County Republicans voted in the closed Republican Primary, that means only about 10% of the countys total registered voters chose the GOP candidates.

Thinking about a race with no Democratic challengers in our general elections, it means our democracy is being determined by 10% of the population, which thats not democracy, Thompson told the Idaho Statesman in an interview in downtown Nampa.

Especially this year, when its a presidential election year, this is the year where we need to stand up and make a presence, Thompson said. It has to be now.

Over the past year, Anthony Porto, political director for the Idaho Democratic Party, has worked to recruit Democrats to run for open seats in the Legislature all over Idaho. He has helped recruit Democrats to run in Canyon County, and this year each legislative seat in the county has a Democratic candidate. Porto seeks election himself in the Houses District 11, which includes Caldwell and some unincorporated areas of Canyon County.

He told the Statesman by phone that he and other party members and candidates have spent countless hours campaigning for each other in the county and registering new voters.

Porto and Thompson agree that now is a crucial time for Democrats in Idaho. We have a lot of momentum, and were building to redefine what Canyon County is, he said.

Democrats have momentum, Republicans have infighting

Canyon County Democrats hope to sway the countys roughly 33,000 unaffiliated voters in November. Thompson has been door-knocking and registering new voters.

On top of trying to gather as much that unaffiliated vote as possible, and the Democrat vote, there are a little chunks of the Republican base that we can knock off, Thompson said.

In the Republican primary for the Idaho House District 11 seat that Portico wants, Kent Marmon defeated incumbent Rep. Julie Yamamoto. Porto won 451 votes unopposed. Marmon won 1,912 and Yamamoto 1,455.

Marmon, who lost four previous elections for the Legislature, described himself in the Statesman Voter Guide as the conservative choice in his race against Yamamoto.

The two Republicans differed over school vouchers. Idaho Education News reported that Marmon previously said that public education funds should follow students to schools that meet their needs, including private institutions. Yamamoto has resisted such legislation.

Porto believes he can pick up some Canyon Republicans who oppose sending public funds to private schools.

So many people are waiting to try to change the party from within, Porto said, referring to Republicans. Its not happening, right? Youre not going to bet on a horse that hasnt gone in the direction in a long time. Democrats have momentum. Republicans have infighting.

Candidate seeks supportive county workplace

Thompson, a Montana native who grew up outside of Missoula and moved to Idaho in 2019, is the first Democrat to seek election to the county commission since 2010, according to the Canyon County Elections Office.

Estella Zamora ran in 2008 and 2010. In 2004, Dan Romero ran. Both lost.

Thompson is the vice chairman of the Canyon County Democratic Party. He said he felt a calling to run because he is disappointed the way many Republican legislators have been leading in Idaho.

He felt more equipped for the job of commissioner than legislator, though. The responsibilities and how you manage the county is not really uncommon from what Ive been doing for most of my career, Thompson said. Ive had to manage groups and coordinate between departments.

The county commissioners job is full-time, paying $112,360 per year. The Legislature is part-time, paying $16,684 per year.

If elected, Thompson hopes to make county governments work environment more hospitable for employees than he believes it is under the current commissioners.

I think our commissioners are building a repressive organizational structure, rather than one thats supportive and meant to actually guide the community, he said.

Business and Local Government Editor David Staats contributed.

Mayor says Idaho law forces Meridian to turn to existing taxpayers to pay for growth

Canyon County chooses new prosecutor; commissioners defeat Idaho GOP challengers
A pilgrim offer prayers after she cast stones at a pillar in the symbolic stoning of the devil, the last rite of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mina, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. Muslim pilgrims were wrapping up the Hajj pilgrimage in the deadly summer heat on Tuesday with the third day of the symbolic stoning of the devil, and the farewell circling around the Kaaba in Mecca's Grand Mosque. | Rafiq Maqbool

Muslims from around the world recently gathered in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for the holiest day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, per The Associated Press.

This trip is a key part of the Muslim faith, one that all healthy Muslims are expected to undertake at some point in their lives.

Hajj is one of the largest religious gatherings on Earth, Al Jazeera reported.

Heres what non-Muslims can learn from the Muslim pilgrimage.

What is the Hajj pilgrimage about?

Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, meaning it is a central tenet of the Islam, according to The Associated Press.

Muslims taking part in the journey join more than 1 million others in a ritual at Mount Arafat.

The ritual at Mount Arafat, known as the hill of mercy, is considered the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is often the most memorable for pilgrims, who stand together asking God for mercy, blessings, prosperity and good health. The hill is about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Mecca, The Associated Press reported.

The Hajj involves intense sacrifice and preparation, per PBS. Many pilgrims must save money for years to afford a single trip, abandoning luxuries in order to focus on humility and faithfulness to God.

Pilgrims often endure intense heat on their way to Mount Arafat, including this year.

The Hajj took place this year against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war. The conflict prevented many Muslims from participating in the journey, according to The Associated Press.

Saudi officials have advised that the Hajj should not be politicized. A Saudi cleric, Maher Bin Hamad al-Muwiqly, spoke about that when he delivered a sermon from Mount Arafat on Saturday, June 15.

However, he urged pilgrims to pray for the Palestinians who have been harmed and hurt by their enemy that killed them, and deprived them of what they need from food, medicine and clothing. He didnt mention Israel in his sermon, The Associated Press reported.

What everyone can learn from Hajj

Gratitude and humility : The Hajj requires sacrifice. During their journey, pilgrims separate themselves from many worldly comforts and focus on what God has provided for them in their journey, per Arab News.

Brotherhood : Muslims from diverse backgrounds take part in the Hajj side-by-side. Rich, poor, Palestinian, Saudi, Jordanian, old, young, etc., all participate in the same rituals and pray side-by-side, per Salon. From this example, we can learn to embrace our common humanity.

Patience : The journey to Mount Arafat is longer for some pilgrims than others. Travelers must navigate crowded and challenging conditions, after waiting years for the time and money to go. Nevertheless, they look forward to the chance they have to travel to the sacred site. We can learn to exercise similar patience as we navigate our own struggles.

Devotion: At Mount Arafat, Muslims worship God together, raising their arms to the sky and praying, per The Associated Press. This period of intense devotion and reflection encourages individuals to think about their own relationship with God. Believers of other faiths may be inspired to consider how they show their devotion to God.
This photo of Tulane University was taken June 3, 2010. (Photo by Tulane Public Relations Creative Commons License)

A group of non-tenured faculty at Tulane University in New Orleans has voted to form a union.

The group is made up of faculty with the ranks of instructor, lecturer, professor of practice and visiting professor in Tulanes schools of Professional Development, Liberal Arts, Science and Engineering, and Architecture and Business. They voted 146-29 to authorize the Tulane Workers United.

Tulane fully supports the rights of employees to vote on whether they want to be part of a union or not, university spokesman Mike Strecker said in a statement.

The group had initially asked for voluntary recognition from the university administration in April, which it did not receive. The two parties agreed to hold an election, with the vote occurring Tuesday.

As an authorized union, the faculty members have an avenue to collectively bargain with university leaders over salary and benefits. The group has described their compensation as poverty wages.

Patrick Butler, a visiting assistant professor of English, said he earns an annual salary of $45,000. The average salary in New Orleans is $65,619, according to ZipRecruiter.

Butler said Brian Edwards, dean of the English department, rescinded a promotion offer to Butler that would have bumped his pay to around $60,000 a year because he was involved in the union organizing efforts. Butler has since filed a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board over the incident.

We do not discuss personnel matters, but neither Dean Edwards nor Tulane administrators engaged in any anti-union activity, Strecker said.

The post Non-tenured Tulane faculty overwhelmingly vote to unionize appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  Oklahoma County Commissioners planned to support the Access Oklahoma Plan, to expand turnpikes across the state, although commissioners were only focused on areas impacted in their counties. Norman residents showed up to the meeting to voice their concerns.

Think about how the Turnpike Authority historically has not been transparent with the people and they have not been transparent with the cities and counties and municipalities, said Kelly Wilson.

On Tuesday, Oklahoma County Commissioners planned to pass a resolution supporting the Oklahoma Turnpike Authoritys plans for Oklahoma County.

This is literally just saying, Yes, this is great,' said Myles Davidson, the Oklahoma County Commissioner for District 3.

Norman councilman issues apology for profane language in meeting

Commissioner Davidson said it involves expanding the Turner Turnpike to three lanes in the area, a project already underway.

Then it will put in an additional couple of exits, one on the county line on the western side to increase access over there, said Davidson. Then it will have one or two in the Arcadia area.

Showing up to the meeting were Norman residents, who have been impacted by the proposed Turnpike Expansions that run through Cleveland County. One expansion connects Newcastle to Norman, while another connects the Kickapoo Turnpike to Purcell.

Turnpike expansion

My living room will be the median of the turnpike on the southern extension, said Randy Carter, who opposes the expansion.

I felt like I needed to let the commissioners know what Ive learned over the past two years, which is you should not trust them, said OU Professor Tassie Hirschfeld.

During public comment, the opposition cited lawsuits and investigations, specifically the state Attorney General calling for an audit into the OTA.

Mixed feelings following Norman mayors turnpike town hall

I think it would be a mistake to sign on with this group until that has been finalized and everybody is aware of what those investigations will unfold, Carter told Commissioners.

I wasnt supporting the Cleveland County part of the turnpike I would never cross over into someone elses county, said Commissioner Davidson. I know that theyve had a lot down there. Theyve had a lot of opposition and theyve slowed it, and the turnpike down.

Ultimately, Davidson struck the motion to support, only because he wants to add Texas Turnarounds to the Access Oklahoma Plan in Oklahoma County, specifically along the Kilpatrick Turnpike, near Paycom, in far northwest OKC.

Its very, very packed with traffic, said Davidson.

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.
Lynn Helms, director of the North Dakota Department of Natural Resources, speaks during an Energy Development and Transmission Committee meeting at the Capitol on April 10, 2024. Helms testified June 18, 2024, in federal court about the impact of a federal methane rule. (Michael Achterling | North Dakota Monitor)

A new Bureau of Land Management methane rule threatens to violate thousands of existing agreements between the federal agency and property owners, Department of Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms testified Tuesday in federal court.

Helms, testifying on his last day before retirement, said North Dakota stands to lose $2.1 million a year in tax revenue under the new rule, and that the policy will lead to roughly 85 wells in the state to be shut down and abandoned.

The rule is in complete conflict with the states gas flaring regulations, Helms said.

North Dakota, Wyoming, Texas and Montana in April filed a lawsuit against the Department of Interior in the U.S. District Court of North Dakota arguing the new rule is an expensive and unlawful regulatory burden. Utah later joined as a plaintiff.

Attorneys representing the states in a Tuesday hearing before U.S. District Court Judge Dan Traynor argued that enforcement of the rule should be suspended as the case proceeds.

The states claim the BLM is trying to commandeer regulatory authority over flaring and air pollution that belongs to the Environmental Protection Agency and state governments.

The BLMs new rule will require oil operators to do more to avoid wasting natural gas, like cutting down on venting and flaring and taking extra measures to detect and fix gas leaks.

Attorneys for the federal government during Tuesdays hearing said the purpose of the new rule, in part, is to make gas flaring practices across the country more uniform.

The regulations also expand operators obligations to pay royalties to the federal government and tribal mineral owners when they flare gas. Based on the BLMs own estimate, the new rule will generate more than $50 million per year in royalties.

The plaintiff states say the rule is the reincarnation of a 2016 waste management policy vacated by a Wyoming U.S. District Court judge four years ago.

That judge found the BLM had veered from its established practices and overstepped its regulatory authority. In that case, the judge denied the plaintiffs request for a preliminary injunction.

The federal government argued Tuesday that the new rule is much more modest than the 2016 policy. The text of the 2024 rule does acknowledge it was crafted to avoid some of the Wyoming courts criticisms of the previous rule.

Both sides appeared to agree that the 2024 rule is expected to be much less costly to states.

The Wyoming judges 2020 order notes the BLM estimated that the previous rule would cost about $114 million to $279 million per year nationally.

Traynor did not appear convinced the 2024 rule is meaningfully different, however.

How is this not the same thing with a different paint job? he said during the hearing.

Attorneys for the federal government disagreed that the rules were incompatible with state regulations.

They also pushed back on the accusation that the agency was retroactively changing contracts with mineral owners. They said existing agreements include provisions recognizing the BLMs authority to prevent the loss of gas through flaring.

The rules of the road have not changed, its only the sign posting thats gotten more consistent, Erik Van de Stouwe, an attorney for the federal government, said.

Van de Stouwe accused the states of unfairly characterizing the rule as a climate-change policy based on clandestine motives, when it really is about royalties and preventing the unnecessary loss of natural gas loss.

He also noted that no operators have challenged the methane rule.

Traynor asked Van de Stouwe whether the BLM had consulted with the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation about the policy considering the significant oil and gas production on the Fort Berthold reservation. There are more than 2,600 active oil and gas wells on the reservation, according to the state Oil and Gas Division, and another 2,000 could be drilled in the future.

If theres a harm, its going to harm Native people more than anyone else, Traynor said.

Van de Stouwe said he believed the BLM did reach out to the MHA Nation for feedback on the rule.

MHA Nation Chair Mark Fox did not return a request for comment by publication time.

North Dakota produced an average of nearly 3.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day in April, according to preliminary figures from the state.

Ninety-five percent of that gas was captured, which exceeds the North Dakota Industrial Commissions target of 91%.

This story was originally published by the North Dakota Monitor which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

The post North Dakota oil regulator argues for suspension of federal methane rule appeared first on Daily Montanan.
North Thurston school board says farewell to one district leader and welcomes another

Family, friends and staff gathered for a North Thurston school board meeting on Tuesday, ready with gifts and parting words for retiring Superintendent Debra Clemens, and an official welcome for her replacement, Troy Oliver.

North Thurston Public Schools Superintendent-to-be Troy Oliver participates in a swearing-in ceremony during a board meeting on Tuesday, June 18.

Clemens, who announced her retirement earlier this year, is superintendent through the end of the month; Oliver starts July 1. Oliver has been serving as the districts assistant superintendent of operations.

School board president Gretchen Maliska checked off a list of district accomplishments during Clemens tenure, including the establishment of a dual-language Spanish/English program, now offered at Lydia Hawk and Mountain View elementary schools; the complete modernization of North Thurston High School, Pleasant Glade Elementary and Komachin Middle School, and the modernization currently underway at River Ridge High School.

Deb, Im truly grateful for all of your contributions, Maliska said. You have made a lasting impact on our district, and we will carry forward the values and principles you have instilled upon us.

Board member Jennifer Thomas praised Clemens for the example she set.

Perhaps the one thing that Im most proud of is you showing the power of women in leadership, and that is something amazing that will stick with me for a long time, Thomas said.

Former Nisqually tribal council member Hanford McCloud presented Clemens with a tribal pendant, saying she did a wonderful job, not only for the community, but for the districts relationship with the Nisqually Indian Tribe.

Clemens thanked the staff and board members.

I am so grateful to all of you for helping me, you know, really achieve the mission of the school district, she said.

Oliver was sworn in at the end of the meeting. He declined to speak at length to The Olympian, saying he didnt want to take anything away from Clemens.

I get to continue to build on the great work that Deb has been working on for the last eight years, he said, and I feel honored to have the opportunity.

Maliska offered praise for Oliver.

One of Troys gifts is his approach to listening, she said. He spends time understanding, has deep historical knowledge, and wants to provide solutions that positively impact students, staff and our community. He also understands the importance of being a lifelong learner.

She said that in his first 90 days on the job he plans to visit each school, host community meetings and get to know community partners.

The board is confident that he will be an excellent superintendent, and we know our future is bright, she said.

Olivers path to superintendent was an unusual one.

The board offered the job to an Alaska school official who resigned not long after accepting the offer. That forced the board to re-interview Oliver and another finalist before offering him the job.

The South Bay Elementary School choir on Tuesday rocked the district boardroom, singing four pop hits from the 1970s, including Abbas Dancing Queen and Sister Sledges We are family.

North Thurston school board taps longtime employee as superintendent in special vote

NTPS will take more time to select next superintendent

North Thurston superintendent-to-be Ainsworth resigns. Heres what the NTPS board will do

He quit soon after taking job as superintendent. Did email on behalf of his kid play role?
BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- At the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Naval Submarine Academy earlier this month, two nonagenarians joined the stage ahead of a ceremony marking the conclusion of enlistment training for new recruits.

They are 92-year-old Mu Ensheng and 91-year-old Liu Zuogen, both among the first soldiers of the Chinese Navy submarine force.

A torpedo man and an electrician, respectively, in their time, Mu and Liu shared their experiences and insights with new recruits, spoke about responsibilities, and encouraged them to cherish their youth and hone their skills.

"A submarine soldier should always follow the Party's lead!" Mu said.

Wednesday marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the PLA Navy's submarine force.

LOYALTY FIRST

Over the past seven decades, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the submarine force has evolved from its inception to possessing both nuclear and conventional weapons, playing significant roles in both coastal waters and the high seas.

In 1951, nearly 300 PLA officers and soldiers from various service branches gathered at a base in the northeast coastal city of Dalian to learn about submarines and relevant technologies, forming a submarine force three years later.

The selection process for the first batch of submarine soldiers was incredibly rigorous, with almost all of them ultimately being members of the CPC or the Communist Youth League, Mu recalled.

Absolute loyalty, purity and reliability have always been the cornerstone of the submarine force's success in underwater operations.

Yan Xuepeng, currently a cadre at a PLA Navy submarine base, believes that the unique nature of submarine weapons, equipment and missions necessitates even higher standards and stricter requirements for their forces to maintain loyalty, purity and reliability.

Part of the first crew of the PLA Navy's nuclear submarine force, Yan and his comrades-in-arms, along with their seniors, have consistently met the standards and requirements set before them.

During a previous mission in the high seas, for instance, the crew encountered urgent and extremely difficult circumstances before receiving a concise order from their higher command consisting of only 12 Chinese words.

Eventually, the temporarily formed Party committee of the crew stuck to the brief instructions and successfully completed the tasks, earning commendation from the Central Military Commission (CMC).

"Submarines form a significant strategic force of the country, and every move they make impacts the country's overall political and diplomatic situation," Yan said, vowing to resolutely obey the command of the CPC Central Committee and the CMC.

TRUE GRIT

Such instances have illuminated the history of the submarine force, where their grit, coupled with loyalty, empowered them to overcome the odds and achieve numerous accomplishments.

In 2014, during a combat readiness voyage, the PLA Navy submarine 372 experienced a sudden plunge at an "underwater cliff," resulting in the flooding of its main cabin. The temporary Party committee led the entire crew to stay calm and fearless, and they worked together to resolve the situation within three minutes.

During another mission in the high seas, a steam leakage occurred inside a reactor room of a nuclear submarine. Then chief electrical engineer Meng Zhaoxu went straight into the room without hesitation, exposed himself to the radiation, and resolved the issue, which caused permanent damage to his body. He died at the age of 45, with his last notes saying, "I have no regret choosing to serve on nuclear submarines and even dying for it."

Last July, Song Runpeng, newly enlisted into the submarine force, experienced firsthand the resilience of the crew. A senior instructed him to organize his belongings and leave notes for his family before embarking on his first long voyage.

"At first, I didn't understand what was happening but then I was told it's a routine before going out to the sea. That was when it dawned on me as to what truly is sacrifice," he said.

With such resilience, the submarine force has also managed to demonstrate the PLA Navy's unwavering commitment to safeguarding world peace and development.

In recent years, they have actively participated in bilateral and multilateral maritime exercises with countries such as Russia, Pakistan and Thailand, engaging in various international military activities to strengthen ties with the navies of other countries.

With their loyalty and grit, the valiant submarine force of the PLA Navy has been and will continue to forge ahead toward deeper and more distant seas. 
Norways Kongsberg Defense and Aerospace has launched a new ground-based air defense solution, the NOMADS, or National Maneuver Air Defense System. Designed for the protection of forces on the move, the system appears to draw heavily upon lessons of the war in Ukraine and there have already been reports that NOMADS might end up being supplied to Kyiv. Whether or not that happens, NOMADS emphasizes the continued resurgence of interest in short-range air defense (SHORAD), after many years of neglect, and will be an important part of the modernization of the Norwegian military, especially in the Arctic region. Announcing the launch of the National Manoeuvre Air Defence System (#NOMADS), a highly mobile, ground-based #airdefence system designed to protect army manoeuvre units close to the frontline against increasingly complex aerial threats. https://t.co/zv6gXxrkxf KONGSBERG (@kongsbergasa) June 18, 2024 NOMADS was publicly unveiled at the Eurosatory defense exhibition taking place outside Paris this week. Designed in conjunction with the Norwegian Armed Forces, the system is designed to be mounted on one of a range of armored mechanized vehicles, with the baseline model being integrated on an ACSV G5 (Armored Combat Support Vehicle) from the German firm Flensburger Fahrzeugbau GmbH (FFG). FFG is supplying 50 ACSV G5 vehicles to the Norwegian Armed Forces in various configurations. An ACSV G5 (Armored Combat Support Vehicle) from the German firm Flensburger Fahrzeugbau GmbH (FFG). FFG SHORADS specifically intended to go onto an armored vehicle were commonplace during the Cold War, but then somewhat fell out of favor. As well as a high level of off-road mobility, and the ability to keep up with mechanized forces, this ensures a good degree of protection and, once again, reflects the demands of the kinds of warfare seen currently in Ukraine. Porting over technologies from the medium-range National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missiles System (NASAMS)  a system used by the United States and Ukraine, as well as Norway, primarily in static applications  the NOMADS module includes active sensors in the form of a 3D active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and a laser rangefinder. There are also passive sensors, with a day/night camera and a thermal camera. A NASAMS system fires an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile. Kongsberg A ground-based launcher associated with the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). Kongsberg Defense The radar is reportedly supplied by the Danish Weibel firm and Kongsberg confirms it has a range of at least 31 miles. All these sensors are brought together  and can be combined with data from off-board systems  via a command and control (C2) architecture taken from NASAMS and supported by NATO-standard identification friend or foe as well as VHF and UHF communications. The standard weapons for NOMADS comprise four ready-to-fire AIM-9X Block 2 Sidewinders, best known as air-to-air weapons but also an option for the NASAMS. Its worth noting that four missiles is a relatively low total, while the AIM-9X is also far from a low-cost option with each round costing close to half a million dollars. An AIM-9X Sidewinder missile. Raytheon AIM-9X Sidewinder. USN Additionally there is a remote weapon station armed with a 50-caliber machine gun and an optional radio-frequency directional jammer. The last two would appear to be included to better deal with close-in threats from small drones, including first-person view (FPV) types, of the kind that are also currently proliferating in Ukraine. Otherwise, NOMADS is suitable for use against other types of drones, cruise missiles, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft. The importance of this kind of capability near the forward edge of the battle cannot be understated, with attack helicopters, especially, having proven in Ukraine to be a particular menace. NOMADS can defend against small, short-range targets as drones and cruise missiles, providing unique protection against threats like those currently seen in Ukraine, said Kjetil Reiten Myhra, Kongsbergs Executive Vice President Defense Systems. Its configuration is designed for rapid movement over rough terrain and with unprecedented into-action-time. For its primary battlefield missions, supporting maneuver forces, at battalion and brigade level, NOMADS is expected to operate independently, including conducting shoot and scoot engagements closer to or at the frontline to improve its own survivability. However, via the aforementioned C2 architecture, it can also be plugged in to wider integrated air defense networks. According to the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, NOMADS was recently tested at Andya in the Arctic region, a key operating area for the Norwegian Armed Forces and an increasingly strategic environment overall, considering Russian military expansion there. We have carried out successful test firing with the system, where we have tested the entire chain: From the sensors picking up the target until the missile is launched, explained project manager Geir Sandberg. A pair of NOMADS systems on the move. Kongsberg These tests involved IRIS-T air-to-air missiles being fired from NOMADS, although this is only an interim solution, with Norways having committed to transferring these missiles  formerly used by its now-retired F-16 fighters  to Ukraine. An initial batch of six NOMADS systems are planned to be delivered to the Norwegian Armed Forces, four of them reportedly already having been handed over. These are scheduled to become fully operational between 2026 and 2028. This is part of a wider expansion of Norways air defense capabilities, which include plans to double the number of fielded surface-to-air missiles. The Norwegian Armed Forces needs modern air defense in order to be able to combat a high-tech opponent, Jarle Nergard, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Defense Materiel Agency said. As for interest in NOMADS from beyond Norway, reports in the German media suggest that the Netherlands is interested in acquiring them. The Dutch requirement is apparently based on 18 vehicles, armed with the AIM-9X missile. Reportedly, the Netherlands is also seeking to arm each of these vehicles with more missiles than the standard four found on the baseline model. A NOMADS system, showing the box-type missile containers to good effect. Kongsberg Furthermore, the German government is also said to be considering procuring the system for Ukraine. While the ACSV G5 vehicle used in the iteration of the system could be procured from the German FFG, there would need to be a wider agreement involving Norway, the United States, and Denmark to ensure that the other critical components of NOMADS could be delivered to Ukraine. The modular nature of the system could make this process easier, however. For example, the radar and other sensors could be procured from other sources, while the main armament of AIM-9X missiles could be swapped out with IRIS-T missiles. Both AIM-9X and IRIS-T have already been supplied to Ukraine, with the former understood to be incorporated in the FrankenSAM applications that adapt Soviet-era air defense systems to fire Western missiles. One of the first official photos to show a Soviet-era ground-based air defense system upgraded with Western surface-to-air missiles. In this case, a tracked self-propelled Buk-M1 system  known in the West as SA-11 Gadfly  said to have been adapted to fire the RIM-7 Sea Sparrow missile. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense Operational Command East As we have discussed in the past, Ukraine has an insatiable demand for ground-based air defenses, with the need for SHORADS  especially those that are able to accompany maneuver forces  being especially prominent. Reflecting this requirement, the German Rheinmetall company is currently assessing whether Cold War-era Leopard 1 tanks can have their turrets swapped out to be fitted with the Skyranger 35 gun-based short-range air defense system, as you can read about here. Rheinmetall plans to install Skyranger module on Leopard 1 tanks for UkraineA wicked thing to do. 35mm pic.twitter.com/mqjFCvciCL Bosartiger Fella (@20gimsack) June 16, 2024 NOMADS would seem to provide an relevant solution for Ukraine, combining a high level of protection and a significant degree of mobility. As well as supporting units on the battlefield, including those that are on the move, it could also provide point defense to critical installations, including plugging into existing air defense networks. In particular, the threat posed to Ukraine by Russian drones and cruise missile capabilities is significant and something that NOMADS has very much been designed to deal with. At the same time, the development in the West of an armoured, highly mobile, self-contained SHORADS is a notable development in itself. While Ukraine is already facing cruise missile and drone threats on a daily basis, concerns about these and other aerial threats are now driving something of a renaissance in ground-based air defense around the world, with SHORADS very much at the center of this. Whether it ends up in Ukrainian hands or not, the appearance of NOMADS appears well-timed to capitalize on this renaissance in short-range air defense capabilities. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com

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A large portion of the fence along the beloved Ocean City Fishing Pier is noticeably bare after heaps of love locks were removed without much warning in May. Now, signs urging people to refrain from attaching additional locks hang in their place.

Most of the locks and much of the fence along the pier have begun to rust as a result of the salt air. This safety concern is what ultimately led to their removal, a decision which has been met with much controversy from townsfolk and visitors alike.

Over time, many locks have been fastened to the fence in honor of loved ones who have died, engagements, marriages, births and countless other special occasions. Now, many of those same locks are missing, with no hope of being recovered.

"I agree with the community," said Maryland resident Briyiana Hernandez. "I just feel like it's not fair."

Locks still attached to the fishing pier fencing Monday, June 17, 2024, in Ocean City, Maryland.

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Beachgoers voice support, say it reminds them of Paris, France

When Dee Evans, another Maryland resident, first stepped foot on the Ocean City Fishing Pier  located at 401 South Atlantic Ave.  she was reminded of the famous Love Lock Bridge in Paris, France.

"It's a great idea," Evans said, noting how the love locks immediately caught her eye. She was surprised to hear that some have recently been removed due to safety concerns.

Beachgoer Brian Budd can understand why the locks may have needed to be removed. However, he believes the locks could have been discarded in a more thoughtful manor.

"If they need to take them down, don't just throw them away; put them in another location," Budd said.

Locks still attached to the fishing pier fencing Monday, June 17, 2024, in Ocean City, Maryland.

"That would've been nice to put them on display, as opposed to throwing them away," Evans agreed. "If there was a commemorative placard, it would make people feel better. If the locks have to be removed for repairs or safety issues, I understand that. But, don't just discard the locks."

Evans believes even the rusty locks are deserving of safe storage.

"Find a happy medium for everybody," she said.

NEW OCEAN CITY MUSEUM: Ocean City to get grand new museum on Boardwalk soon: Take a look inside the restored bank

A local resident with sentimental ties to Ocean City's love locks

David Horn in the fishing pier store Monday, June 17, 2024, in Ocean City, Maryland.

David Horn has been working at the Ocean City Fishing Pier tackle shop for over 30 years, and has encountered a colorful cast of characters along the way. Some beachgoers who pass through his small shop come for the picturesque view, while others come to fish.

"I enjoy what I'm doing. I make people laugh," Horn said. "When somebody walks in the door, I greet them. My greeting is, 'How you doing, guys? Ready to go fishing?' That's my standard greeting, and that gets the ball rolling."

GAMBLING IN OCEAN CITY: Gambling thrived in Ocean City during Great Depression, even though it was illegal

The view from Horn's seat behind the register is simply unmatched.

"I like it up here. Look where I am  I'm over the ocean," he said.

Yes, the vast Atlantic Ocean is surely a sight to see, but Horn considers the view special due to his own personal connection to the love locks, two of which he looks upon daily from his chair.

"My wife passed away ten years ago. There's a lock out there with my name and her name," he shared. "I'm remarried, and there's a lock out there with my name and her name as well."

PARK REOPENS IN OCEAN CITY: Ocean City launches new Bayside Park. Get a look at all it has to offer

'A lot of people are sad' about removal of Ocean City's love locks

Locks still attached to the fishing pier fencing Monday, June 17, 2024, in Ocean City, Maryland.

Many local residents have expressed their distaste to Horn regarding the removal of the love locks.

"There's an older fella who's probably 90 years old who rides his bike down here every day," he said. "When I first started selling locks, he came in, got six locks for his family that had passed away, and put their pictures on all the locks. Every day, he would come and stand here for 30-45 minutes with his family."

Then, come May, the older gentleman was met with an empty fence where his six locks had previously been fastened together.

"He came up one day, and (the locks) were gone," Horn said. "He still comes, because that's his spot. But a lot of people are very sad."

Locks still attached to the fishing pier fencing Monday, June 17, 2024, in Ocean City, Maryland.

According to Horn, once a portion of the fence was replaced and heaps of locks were removed, approximately four rolls of new fence were placed in a staging area nearby for future use. Yet, following the uproar from community members, the rolls of fence have since disappeared.

"The whole idea behind (the love locks) is to memorialize someone or something," said Horn. "They're special to people."

WHO HAS SHORE'S BEST FRIES?: Who has the best french fries in Ocean City and Salisbury? Vote in poll through Friday.

Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Love locks come down from Ocean City Fishing Pier, causing discontent
Randolph Freedpeople descendant Paisha Thomas speaking at the Ohio Statehouse. (Photo by Nick Evans, Ohio Capital Journal.)

On the eve of Juneteenth Tuesday, Ohio state Rep. Dontavius Jarrells, D-Columbus, announced plans for a resolution acknowledging the story of the Randolph Freedpeople. Its a dark but largely forgotten incident in Ohios history, and Jarrells hopes his effort can be the first step toward restitution.

In 1846, a group of nearly 400 recently freed Black people were halted by a white mob in New Bremen. When the Randolph Freedpeople were freed, their former owners will set aside money to buy them land. His executor settled on Mercer County because there was a thriving Black settlement there called Carthagena. But white residents recoiled from the prospect of hundreds of new Black neighbors.

When the Freedpeople stepped off canal boats in New Bremen, they were headed for land that belonged to them. The white mob simply refused to let them go there and forced them out of the county.

You know, tomorrow well celebrate Juneteenth, Jarrells said, and the fight for freedom is still happening.

Shining a light

After getting turned away, the Randolph Freedpeople dispersed across neighboring counties, and they did their best to keep their story alive. People like Helen and Issac Gilmore set up a small museum in Rossville  the settlement just outside Piqua city limits where some of the Freedpeople landed. After they passed those artifacts made their way to the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center in Wilberforce.

Curator Hadley Drodge brought photos, a top hat, a handmade quilt and a family bible from the collection. She described it as just a small cross section of the historical evidence of this story.

Pointing to the bible, she explained, This was owned by Rosa Coles and given to her on Christmas Day by her mother, and it contained two locks of hair which to me was so profound, because again, here is material evidence of this history.

Jarrells spoke to reporters Tuesday flanked by those photos and artifacts  physical reminders of how hard descendants of the Randolph Freedpeople worked to preserve their history. Despite those efforts, Jarrells said, the Randolph Freedpeoples story is almost completely unknown

The first thing that most of my colleagues have said to me has been, Wow, this happened? This happened in Ohio? I didnt even know, Jarrells said.

And I didnt know, to be quite frank with you, he added.

That lack of awareness frustrates him even more in light of the descendants ongoing efforts to catch the ear of people in state government.

In the early 1990s, Paisha Thomas recalled how her grandmother and several other descendants got together on her birthday and wrote letters to state leaders. George Voinovich was the governor at the time, she said, noting they also wrote to several Ohio lawmakers as well as the governor of Virginia.

And what came back to them was, were sorry to hear about this, Thomas said, and she recalled bitterly that one lawmakers response referred to land that you claim belonged to your ancestors.

But largely the response was, we suggest that you seek legal representation and that was as far as it went, she said.

What does that something look like?

Jarrells argues that atoning for what happened in 1846 starts with acknowledging it.

The first part is awareness, he said, Making sure that our state recognizes that this happened, and we should do something.

And then the second step, he continued, is figuring out what would that something look like?

While that open-ended assignment leaves room for a lot of possibilities its also where the job gets difficult. Among Jarrells ideas are a museum or a scholarship fund for descendants. Likely a bigger political lift, Jarrells suggested lawmakers consider giving descendants state-owned land in area.

Local historian Larry Hamilton emphasized the importance amplifying the Randolph Freedpeoples story. A former history teacher with 30-years of classroom experience, he showed up in a shirt that read Black history matters.

I didnt wear this for nothing, he joked.

Hamilton argued, One of the things that I have long promoted is the idea of valuing and honoring the struggle for freedom, especially in connection with the Randolph Freedpeople.

There were people who struggled and deserve to be recognized with ownership identity, he continued. By way of public properties, thats a small way that we can have some level of reparative justice.

Regardless of potential challenges or what form the response takes, Jarrells struck an optimistic tone.

Ive been talking with the Governors team, Im talking with our Republican colleagues, he said. No one I have talked to said to me, this is something that we should not be talking about.

Follow OCJ Reporter Nick Evans on Twitter.

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The post Ohio lawmaker seeks to honor Randolph Freedpeople on Juneteenth appeared first on Ohio Capital Journal.
Ohio Mom and Boyfriend Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver Going 150 MPH After Dropping Daughter Off at Camp

Our lives will never be the same, the Ohio mother's family said

Silas Walker/Lexington Herald-Leader/Tribune News Service via Getty Stock image of Kentucky State Police cruiser

Two Ohio families are reeling after a mother and her boyfriend were killed by a suspected drunk driver shortly after dropping her daughter off at summer camp in Kentucky earlier this month.



Meagan Spurgeon, 30, and her boyfriend Joshua Turza, 32, were killed in the crash on June 9 when Kentucky State Police say a 47-year-old man, Jody Miller, was driving drunk and crashed into their car following a police chase.



Our lives will never be the same, Spurgeons family wrote in a GoFundMe fundraiser, organized to help raise money for her 7-year-old daughter.

The family described Spurgeon as a beloved daughter, mother, and friend and said she was taken from us far too soon.

I dont stop crying, I wake up crying, Darla Larson-Spurgeon, Meagans mother, told local affiliate Fox 8.

The outlet reported that police estimated Miller was driving upwards of 150 miles per hour at the time he crashed into the back of the Ohio couples car.

Meagan Spurgeon

Kentucky State Police said in a statement that troopers had clocked Miller driving his BMW at excessive speeds down I-75 and attempted to chase him down. However, Miller sped away from the troopers, who soon lost sight of the vehicle and discontinued the pursuit, the police statement said.

The trooper who was initially chasing Miller down eventually drove upon the scene of the crash, where Spurgeon and Turza were pronounced dead.

He was going so fast they couldnt catch him, and the next thing that happened was her cell phone pinged that theyd been in a crash, Spurgeons mother Darla told Fox 8, reportedly crying as she recounted the crash. Officers arrived and the car was already totally engulfed in flames and there was nothing they could do.



Miller was arrested at the scene and charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence, vehicular homicide while driving under the influence of alcohol, endangering a police officer, evading the police, and speeding, Kentucky State Police said.

Fox 8 reported that Miller is being held on $1 million in Grant County, Kentucky.

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Spurgeons family told Fox 8 that the 30-year-old mother had just graduated from nursing school and landed a job at the Cleveland Clinic. She also recently bought a home for her and her young daughter, the outlet reported.



Meagan adored her daughter more than anything and was an amazing mom, her obituary reads. She loved her job, her coworkers, and loved working as a registered nurse for CCF Lutheran Hospital.

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Read the original article on People.
Oklahoma City councilmembers commemorated MAPS 3 advisers and civic leaders Tuesday as the third iteration of the storied revitalization program was officially declared complete.

The council unanimously agreed to rename the lake at the city's downtown Scissortail Park as "Lake McDaniel" in honor of former Oklahoma City University president Tom McDaniel, who's served as chairman of the MAPS 3 advisory board since 2010.

Oklahoma City Mayor Holt said he had been talking recently with McDaniel about when it was best to wind down the MAPS 3 program. With the late May opening of the programs final standalone project, the YMCA Healthy Living Center in the citys southside, Holt and McDaniel agreed that it was the right time.

It is time to salute MAPS 3 and move in fully to MAPS 4, but we wanted to take a moment to honor that history and that legacy, Holt said.

Former Mayor Mick Cornett speaks as Tom McDaniel reacts on June 18 during the Oklahoma City Council meeting.

Related: MAPS 3 officially completed in May with the south OKC senior center launch. See inside.

Holt and other councilmembers also thanked former Mayor Mick Cornett, former city manager Jim Couch, current City Manager Craig Freeman, former Public Works engineer Eric Wenger, and MAPS program manager David Todd, among many others, for their leadership in bringing MAPS 3 to fruition.

What projects were made possible under MAPS 3?

MAPS 3 was a $777 million, debt-free capital improvement program aimed at bolstering Oklahoma City with a new downtown convention center, a new downtown park and a new streetcar, among several other projects including senior health centers, sidewalks and trails. Like the previous MAPS For Kids program in 2001 and the first MAPS initiative in 1993, MAPS 3 was funded through a 1-cent sales tax approved by voters that started in April 2010 and ended in December 2017.

Mayor David Holt introduces Tom McDaniel during the June 18 Oklahoma City Council meeting.

TIMELINE: History of the MAPS projects

City Clerk Amy Simpson read the 13-minute-long resolution into the record Tuesday morning, acknowledging a lengthy list of city leaders, community volunteers, MAPS 3 advisers and subcommittee members involved with the project. By the end of the resolution, about 70 people had been mentioned, and McDaniel had become visibly emotional.

I didnt realize this was going to be so hard, McDaniel said, wiping his eyes and accepting a microphone. While the rest of you were thinking that that was a very long resolution, I was kind of hanging on every word, because it was an effort by many. And as they read every name of every subcommittee and every project that we did, while it might have seemed laborious to you guys, to me it just brought so many memories rushing back.

Mayor David Holt introduces former Mayor Mick Cornett during the June 18 Oklahoma City Council meeting.

McDaniel thanked the councilmembers for the honor of the lake renaming. He also thanked his wife, Brenda, whom hes been married to for 64 years, for accompanying him to so many MAPS-related events.

Were proud to have been a part of this, what I believe is, transformational and historic endeavor for our community that has transformed it for generations to come, he said.

The mayor also commended other MAPS 3 Citizens Advisory Board, including Dee Morales, Susan J. Hooper, Michael Dover, Kimberly Lowe, Zane Boatright, Michael G. Adams, Nathaniel Harding, Wayne Williams, Gloria Griffin, Cecilia Robinson-Woods, Rusty LaForge and Bob Nelon for their "tireless efforts and invaluable contributions" towards the successful completion of MAPS 3 projects.

Related: MAPS 3 goals are well within sight, says Tom McDaniel

Former Mayor Mick Cornett reacts during the June 18 Oklahoma City Council meeting.

Former longtime mayor Cornett  Holts predecessor and for whom Holt had worked in the past  thanked the current city council for keeping the spirit of the MAPS program alive after he left office in 2018.

Mayors get way too much credit for these MAPS proposals, because it takes so many people to build this legacy, Cornett said. You know, when you leave office, theres no guarantee that anything you started is going to be continued. And all you have to do is talk with mayors around the country whose visions were not carried out, so I want this council to know how much I appreciate the fact that they have delivered the vision as the citizens voted upon.

Ward 4 City Councilman Todd Stone agreed, reiterating how proud local residents are of the MAPS legacy and how it played a crucial role in revitalizing downtown after the crisis of the 80s.

Tom McDaniel reacts as a proclamation naming Scissortail Park after him is read during the June 18 Oklahoma City Council meeting.

Really, the deciding factor on that is, it becomes the impetus for MAPS 4, right? Stone said. And you see how well MAPS 3 was completed. When we look at the vote margin we had in MAPS 4, it just really kind of demonstrates the great job that each and every one of you all did overseeing this program.

More: What MAPS projects will start in 2024? Everything to know about ongoing OKC projects

The Oklahoma City downtown skyline is reflected in Scissortail Lake in 2021.

Legacy of program continues with more than a dozen projects

The latest iteration of MAPS passed overwhelmingly in December 2019 and is still ongoing  with 16 projects and a $1.1 billion budget funded by a sales tax that wont end until 2028.

What few remaining tasks remained for the MAPS 3 board  such as oversight of additional work for the Union Station project in Scissortail Park and overlapping resources for the new OKC Fairgrounds coliseum  will now be the responsibility of the MAPS 4 Citizens Advisory Board, chaired by Teresa Rose.

Tom McDaniel reacts as a proclamation naming Scissortail Park after him is read during the June 18 Oklahoma City Council meeting.

McDaniel recalled that there were a host of different opinions, spirited discussions, and close votes on key issues all throughout the MAPS 3 process. But the committees never fractured and they were committed to making sure the projects crossed the finished line. This, he said, was a reflection of the diversity of Oklahoma City.

We may have started as strangers, but we come to the end of this process as very close-knit colleagues, McDaniel said. We all share a wonderful sense of accomplishment, and we also all share optimism for the future of our city, and I think its in that spirit that well bid you all farewell.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC marks end of MAPS 3, start of MAPS 4 projects
People vote Tuesday at Millwood Field House in the primary elections. Voters headed to the polls to select candidates for the statehouse, Congress and Oklahoma Corporation Commission. For election updates and results, go to oklahoman.com.

Oklahoma tribal nations have spent more than a quarter-million dollars on state political races in 2024, records show.

The $260,000 tally is on track to keep climbing after Tuesdays primary elections and potential runoff races.

Candidates and committees on both sides of the political aisle have reported contributions from tribes this year, but a specific group of Republican incumbents has been left out.

Eighteen lawmakers voted last year against extending the states car tag compacts with tribal nations. Only one of them, Rep. Chris Banning, has reported any direct financial support from a tribal nation this year. Banning reported receiving $500 in February from the Muscogee Nation based in Okmulgee. His district covers parts of the tribes eastern Oklahoma reservation.

More: Tribes are in the right in Oklahoma income tax dispute, state attorney general says

In the northeast corner of the state, several tribes backed the Republican primary challenger of incumbent Sen. Michael Bergstrom, of Adair. The Miami, Peoria, Shawnee and Wyandotte nations have donated a collective $8,500 to Houston Brittain, a small business owner from Pryor. The Shawnee Tribes $2,500 donation was made through its business development arm.

Bergstrom appeared on track to defeat Brittain, receiving 53% of the vote, according to unofficial election results posted Tuesday night.

Bergstrom was one of the lawmakers who voted last summer against renewing the states car tag and tobacco compacts with tribal nations. Gov. Kevin Stitt sued to stop the bills from taking effect, but the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled against him in April. After the bills took effect, the governor worked out several long-term compacts with tribal nations.

The flags of several Oklahoma tribal nations fly outside the state capitol in this 2023 file photo.

Ben Barnes, the chief of the Shawnee Tribe, declined to comment on his tribes decision to back Brittain over Bergstrom.

Brittain was one of two candidates to report the most financial support from tribal nations this year. Rep. Ajay Pittman, an Oklahoma City Democrat and Seminole Nation citizen, also reported $8,500 in tribal contributions. She reported donations from the Osage, Cherokee and Chickasaw. Pittman retained her seat in a race against challenger Brittane Grant.

How much in political donations has each tribe made?

The latter two tribes  the Cherokee and Chickasaw nations  made the lions share of tribal political contributions that had been reported as of Tuesday. The Chickasaw Nation in south-central Oklahoma topped the list at more than $110,000, with $60,000 of that going to a dozen political action committees in February.

The Senate Democratic and Republican PACs each received $5,000, as well as the Oklahoma Hospital Association PAC. Several other PACs that reported donations from the Chickasaw Nation are small committees that mostly backed Democratic candidates during the 2022 election cycle, particularly Sen. J.J. Dossett. The Owasso Democrat, who had served since 2016, was ultimately defeated by Republican Dana Prieto.

Prieto went on to vote against the state-tribal compact extension bills last year.

More: Oklahoma governor to tribal leaders: Let's make a deal on license plates

The Cherokee Nation, the largest tribe in the U.S., has made about $75,000 in contributions so far this year. The Choctaw Nation, Oklahomas second-largest tribe, has chipped in $30,000.

The No. 4 spot for total contributions goes to the Muscogee Nation. The tribe has historically stayed out of spending on state political races, even when its top elected official vocally backed Democrat Joy Hofmeister in her campaign against Stitt in 2022.

The Muscogee Nation has donated a total of $26,000 to 25 campaigns so far this year. One of its largest and most recent donations went to Democrat Michelle McCane, who ran to represent Tulsa in the House. McCane reported receiving $2,000 from the Muscogee Nation on June 14. The teacher and library media specialist has been an outspoken opponent of state Schools Superintendent Ryan Walters. McCane won the Democrat bid for her district, with no Republican challengers running in the race.

The final tribe that contributed to state political candidates and committees this year was the Osage Nation. While the northern Oklahoma tribe donated $5,000 apiece to the House and Senate Republican committees, the four candidates it has directly backed have been Democrats.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma tribes spend a lot on state politics. Where the money goes
Greg McCortney  the Ada Republican tapped to be the next president pro tempore of the Oklahoma Senate  fell to an onslaught of late, dark money advertising Tuesday, losing his seat in the Oklahoma Senate.

McCortney, the former mayor of Ada, captured 3,543 votes while challenger Jason Wingard, a 42-year-old member of the Oklahoma National Guard earned 3,805 votes.

This was a fight that wasnt really between me and my opponent, McCortney said. It was between me and the dark money group.

McCortney's loss throws the leadership of the Senate in turmoil with the retirement of Pro Tempore Greg Treat, due to term limits. This spring, McCortney was chosen by the Senate's Republican Caucus to replace Treat. McCortney's loss, however, throws the election for pro tempore wide open  to what is already a divided caucus.

Election records show the dark money group was the Advance Right PAC, which distributed flyers and targeted text messages against McCortney. Federal Election Commission filings show the group lists offices in both Washington, D.C., and Edmond.

Statewide, politically motivated groups have spent more than $3 million in the primary election, the non-profit media outlet Oklahoma Watch reported.

McCortney's race was one of a handful of high-profile legislative races that marked the state's 2024 election.

In Shawnee, incumbent Shane Jett survived an ugly, four-way primary. Jett, if reelected this fall, can only serve two years of the four-year term because of term limits. Jett faced former state Senator Ron Sharp, retired NCAA referee Rachel Melot and Republican activist Cody Swearingen.

Unofficial election returns show that Jett earned a little more than 50% of the vote, while Sharp captured 26.%. Melot had 19.69% and Swearingen was a distant fourth just over 3%.

Tuesdays primary election could also determine the fate for 35 state lawmakers, who drew no general election opponent. So far this year 50 legislative seats have already been decided, because only one candidate filed for office.

Following are the results of other notable state legislative races across Oklahoma:

Senate - District 13

Incumbent Senator Greg McCortney falls to Jonathan Wingard. McCortney: 3,442 votes to Wingard's 3,676.

Senate - District 17

Incumbent Shane Jett survived a tough four-way fight. Jett recorded 3,572 votes to former Senator Ron Sharp's 1,921 votes. Political newcomer Rachel Melot, a retired NCAA referee, received 1,381 votes while Cody Swearingen was a distant fourth with 259 votes.

Sen. Shane Jett speaks before the votes during a special session of the Oklahoma Senate to extend tribal compacts override a Gov. Kevin Stitt vetos. Monday, July 24, 2023

Senate - District 46

Democrats look to hold the Senate District 46 seat. Tuesday evening, unofficial election returns showed, Mark Mann with about 52.6% of the vote while his opponent, Sam Wargin Grimaldo had 47.3%.

Senate - District 48

Former state Senator Connie Johnson probably won't reclaim her seat. Johnson captured only about 27% of the vote Tuesday, far below former Oklahoma City Councilwoman Nikki Nice's 72%.

Councilperson Nikki Nice speaks during the Oklahoma City council meeting, Tuesday, May, 21, 2024.

House - District 53

Like other races, the large number of candidates in House District 53 forced a runoff. Nick Pokorny will face off against Jason Blair for the GOP nomination. Porkorny received 32.39% of the vote  935  while Blair captured 960 votes, or 33.25%. Heather Boss placed third in the contest, with 501 votes or 17.3%. Kathern Stehno was fourth with 491 votes or 17%.

House - District 60

Republicans will see a runoff in HD 60. Mike Kelley will go head-to-head with Ron Lynch for the GOP nomination. Kelley received 41.7% of the vote, or 1269 ballots, while Lynch earned 665 votes or 21.85%. Toni Pratt Reid was third with 562 votes or 18.7 percent. Jason Warner was a distant fourth with 547 votes or 17.89%

House - District 88

Democrats made a strong showing in the HD 88. Ellen Pogemiller emerged as the winner in a three-way contest against Nicole Maldonado and Paula Sophia. Pogemiller earned 53.65 of the vote  1,444 ballots  to Maldonado's 839 votes, or 30.76%. Paula Sophia was a distant third with 442 votes or 15.66%.

House - District 99

Embattled state Rep. Ajay Pittman will return for another term. Pittman got 1,321 votes  53.5%  to Brittane Grant's 1,147, or 46.4 percent.

The state's Primary Runoff election is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 27.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma election results: Key races put Senate leadership in turmoil
He was a really loving guy: Friends remember bicyclist killed by live wires in North Park

A beloved Central Catholic teacher and avid mountain biker was killed doing what he loved Tuesday evening.

Bob Anderson was electrocuted by live wires while on a trail in North Park, hours after those wires came down and were reported to Duquesne Light Company.

>>> Bicyclist found dead among live wires in North Park

Bob was more than a bike racer. He was a really loving guy, Mark Sauers told Channel 11.

Anderson may have been best known for his mountain biking, but to those who knew him best, he was a close friend.

He was part of this community, and he was a leader. He was a strong guy, one of the best racers around. Were gonna miss him, Pat McCloskey said.

McCloskey and Sauers have known Bob for years and were in disbelief when they heard he was electrocuted Tuesday night when he rode his bike over energized power lines.

Sauers was texting with him just before he left for the trail.

Bob wanted to go out he said Im going to go and do recon, Sauers said

It happened on a trail Bob often biked  near Olympia Grove around 8:30 p.m.

Channel 11 has since learned  a man reported the wires to 911, nearly 12 hours earlier  when he saw them smoking on the trail.

That man gave Channel 11 the below photo, showing how he found the electrical lines on Tuesday morning.

I dont understand the circumstances for the power lines. How they can be exposed for so long in a public park? Sauers said.

Channel 11 also had that same question  and called Duquesne Light multiple times today to ask for an interview, but we never got a call back.

We also learned that police placed caution tape around the lines, blocking the trail from both sides, but they were never de-energized.

I think, in Bobs defense, he didnt ride it knowing obviously. He probably thought it was a tree down, or a hole, or mud off the hill, Mark added.

While those questions remain unanswered, people across Pittsburgh are remembering Bob.

He was a teacher at Central Catholic.

The schools president Matthew J. Stoessel told us:

Mr. Anderson played an important role in educating students on the need for personal health and wellness. He was dedicated to the students entrusted in his care and the mission of Central Catholic.

His friends say theyll continue to bike in his honor.

It was hard walking up here. Just to take a look at it. Just looking where it is right now. We will always think of that when we ride up here, Pat said.

You can read the full letter Stoessel sent to the Central Catholic community below.

Central Catholic Letter Regarding Robert Anderson by WPXI Staff on Scribd

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), delivers an important speech at the CMC Political Work Conference in Yan'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, June 17, 2024. The CMC Political Work Conference was held from Monday to Wednesday in Yan'an, an old revolutionary base in northwest China's Shaanxi Province. Xi attended the conference and delivered an important speech. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

YAN'AN, Shaanxi, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the armed forces' political loyalty as a crucial meeting on the political work in the military was held in Yan'an, an old revolutionary base in northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), demanded efforts to ensure a solid political guarantee for building a strong military, as he addressed the CMC Political Work Conference, held from Monday to Wednesday.

The Yan'an conference, which Xi personally decided to convene, took place 10 years after a similar meeting was held in Gutian, east China's Fujian Province. The participants discussed and made arrangements for promoting political work in the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Xi emphasized the need to uphold the Party's absolute leadership over the military and to build a high-quality cadre team that is loyal, clean, responsible, and capable of fulfilling the mission of strengthening the military.

On Monday afternoon, Xi led CMC members and heads of various departments and units to visit the revolutionary relics at Wangjiaping, where the CMC's headquarters were stationed from August 1937 to March 1947.

Xi visited the former residences of late revolutionary leaders including Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai and Zhu De in Yan'an to honor the memory of their revolutionary struggle.

The Yan'an conference marks a return to the roots of the military, Xi said.

He called on senior military officers to shoulder the responsibilities entrusted by the Party and the people to keep strengthening the armed forces.

Xi delivered an important speech at the conference, noting that after the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the CPC Central Committee held the 2014 military political work conference in Gutian and improved political conduct through rectification initiatives.

Measures to govern the military with strict discipline have been comprehensively implemented with unprecedented determination and intensity, achieving historic accomplishments in enhancing political loyalty in the military, according to Xi.

Xi stressed that political work is always the lifeline of the country's military. The armed forces must always be led by those who are reliable and loyal to the Party, and there must be no place for corruption within the military.

Noting that China's military is confronted with complicated challenges in the political work, Xi said it is necessary to continuously enhance political loyalty in the military to ensure that the people's armed forces always uphold their core values, maintain purity, and strictly adhere to discipline.

He also analyzed the deep-seated problems that need to be addressed in military political work, emphasizing that a root cause of these problems lies in the lack of ideals and beliefs.

Xi called on relevant personnel at all levels, especially senior cadres, to introspect, engage in soul-searching reflections, and make earnest rectifications.

Xi highlighted key work to enhance political loyalty in the military, urging efforts to arm the military with the Party's new theories and improve the leadership of Party organizations, as well as their capabilities of organization and implementation.

The Party leadership must be upheld in all the fields and the whole process of enhancing combat readiness, Xi noted.

Xi urged efforts to nurture a contingent of high-caliber officers, eradicate the breeding ground for corruption, and enhance the comprehensive oversight of high-ranking officers in terms of their performance of duty and exercise of power.

Officers at all levels, especially those in the higher ranks, should lead by example and serve as pioneers and models, Xi said. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), leads CMC members and heads of various departments and units to visit the revolutionary relics at Wangjiaping in Yan'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, June 17, 2024. The CMC Political Work Conference was held from Monday to Wednesday in Yan'an, an old revolutionary base in northwest China's Shaanxi Province. Xi attended the conference and delivered an important speech. (Xinhua/Li Gang)

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), meets with participants of the CMC Political Work Conference in Yan'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, June 17, 2024. The CMC Political Work Conference was held from Monday to Wednesday in Yan'an, an old revolutionary base in northwest China's Shaanxi Province. Xi attended the conference and delivered an important speech. (Xinhua/Li Gang)
One dead after ATV crash in Wayne County

DAMASCUS TOWNSHIP, WAYNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  One man is dead after crashing his ATV into a utility pole in Wayne County.

According to the Pennsylvania State Police, just before 10:30 p.m. Monday, 27-year-old Dakota Kronyak from Milanville was traveling east on Plank Road when he lost control of his ATV and struck a utility pole. Kronyak was ejected from the ATV and thrown into a large boulder.

Three hospitalized after Lackawanna County crash

State police say Kronyak was located face down by someone passing by on Plank Road.

Officials say Kronyak was pronounced dead on the scene.

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.
There is a border problem, and its unknown to most Americans. Its a criminal form of trafficking. It involves scores of individual victims crossing the Rio Grande. It is a public safety threat and a massive expense to American taxpayers.

In this case, I refer to the cockfighting trade.

Cockfighting is outlawed in every state, and it is a felony in Texas. But south of the border, it is legal, and U.S. cockfighters smuggle hundreds of thousands of fighting birds to cartel-controlled cockfighting arenas in Mexico for regular bloodletting, high-stakes gambling and money laundering. The flow of birds also moves in the opposite direction, with the cartels shipping them along north-facing routes to their network of criminal operators in our homeland.

Court dockets in Texas counties show its an epidemic.

Recently, Bexar County law enforcement arrested 47 people and seized 200 birds, along with illegal weapons. A raid in Goliad County resulted in 60 arrests and several illegal weapons seized.

Earlier this year, more than 160 roosters were seized in a Potter County bust where according to the sheriff, many participants were unlawfully in the United States. At a cockfight busted by the San Jacinto sheriff, suspects were expected to face multiple felony charges, ranging from animal cruelty, cockfighting, illegal gambling, unlawful weapon possession, organized crime, and federal firearm possession by illegal immigrants.

Fighting birds seized in North Carolina in 2020.

We saw more of the same in Cherokee, Texas, where two dozen suspected cockfighters were arrested on similar charges. And in Lynn County, the sheriff brought felony charges because of organized criminal activity.

There have been a series of interdictions at the border, including a federal enforcement action in which officers made an unusual discovery, roosters deeply hidden within passenger vehicles.

This is no benign trade. Cockfighting is barbaric and cruel. Fighting birds are fitted with razor-sharp blades on their legs to hack and cut each other for the sick enjoyment of spectators who get a thrill from the bloodletting. But apart from this sheer barbarism, cockfights are also a gathering place where organized crime festers and spills over into communities.

In Hidalgo County, in early June, a young man shot his uncle in a dispute over birds thought to be raised for cockfighting. There was also a shooting at a Dallas cockfight last year.

The cockfighting-related violence in Mexico is chilling in its scale. In 2022, in the Mexican state of Michoacan, cartel members entered a cockfighting arena, sealed off exit routes and fatally killed 20 people. Three of the victims were Americans, including a mother of four from Illinois. A similar incident occurred at a cockfighting derby in Guerrero in January, where 14 people were wounded and six murdered, including a 16-year-old boy from Washington state.

Cockfighting has also been linked to outbreaks of bird flu (H5N1) in Asia, and there have been 15 outbreaks of another kind of bird flu, virulent Newcastle Disease, in the U.S. in recent decades. Ten of those 15 outbreaks were linked to fighting birds smuggled across the border from Mexico. The United States indemnifies the farmers and has paid out billions of your tax dollars to reimburse them for birds lost to disease.

Texas is at a crossroads of the North American cockfighting trade. Three neighboring states  Louisiana, New Mexico and Oklahoma  were the last ones to criminalize cockfighting. Organized criminal networks of cockfighters still operate, coordinating with associates in Texas and Mexico and contributing to the crime wave.

This is one more border crisis we cannot ignore.

A bill in Congress would strengthen federal enforcement of our laws against animal fighting. The FIGHT Act would ban online gambling on animal fights, allow courts to seize fighting pits and other property used by convicted animal fighters in the commission of their crimes and stop the shipment of fighting roosters through the mail. It would also allow law-abiding citizens to protect their homes and families by bringing civil suits against cockfighters and dogfighters when governmental authorities are too slow to act.

With a law like the FIGHT Act to protect the public from deadly cross-border crimes, we can finally put an end to the scourge of illegal animal fighting in Texas and across our nation.

Wayne Pacelle is president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy, www.animalwellnessaction.org . He is the author of two New York Times bestselling books about the human relationship with animals.

Wayne Pacelle
One of the most popular cruise ports in the world just got an important makeover

One of the most popular cruise ports in the world just got an important makeover

One of the most popular cruise ports in the world just got an environmental makeover.

PortMiami is now equipped with shore power, which allows ships to plug into giant electrical outlets.

The technology allows cruise ships to kill their engines while docked, reducing emissions and noise.

The cruise ship capital of the world unveiled its new shore power system this week, an innovative energy source that will help curb the industry's negative climate impacts.

Cruise ships docking at PortMiami are now able to plug into massive electrical outlets instead of running their diesel engines while idle.

Large commercial vessels typically keep their engines running while docked to ensure crew members and passengers who stay on board have access to electricity and other amenities. One cruise ship running its engine at port can use as much energy as 10,000 households in one day, The Miami Herald reported.

The Florida port saw more than 7 million cruise passengers pass through in 2023, a record-breaking figure for the busy cruise hub.

Shore power utilizes the local land-based power grid. The Miami apparatus is a collaboration between Miami-Dade County, Florida Power & Light Company, and several large cruise companies.

The project cost an estimated $125 million and was funded by grants and contributions, including from the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Florida Department of Transportation, Cruise Hive, a trade publication, reported.

The energy comes from individual substations built by Florida Power & Light, which are installed at multiple terminals throughout the port, according to The Herald.

Shore power will help cut emissions and noise pollution, the outlet reported. MiamiPort has 16 megawatts available for cruise ships, and each vessel requires anywhere from eight to 13 megawatts per docking, port director Hydi Webb told The Herald.

MiamiPort did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

Monday marked the grand unveiling of PortMiaimi's shore power system. Executives from five cruise lines  Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Virgin, Norweigen, and MSC  attended, according to media reports.

The port's shore power rollout is quick. Three ships per cruise line will be able to plug into the substations starting this week, The Herald reported.

A Carnival ship was the first vessel to connect on Monday, according to Cruise Hive. The company did not immediately respond to BI's request for comment.

While 30% of global cruise ships have shore power capability, less than 30 ports are equipped to serve such ships, according to a 2023 report from the Cruise Lines Industry Association.

But more and more ports appear to be ready for the change. The Port of Seattle recently announced that it will require all cruise ships homeported there to use shore power by 2027.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Two people dead, several rescued at senior living center and hospital from southeastern wildfires

An air tanker drops fire retardant called slurry over and around areas in the Village of Ruidoso, N.M., on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (Photo by Chancey Bush / Albuquerque Journal) PHOTO CANNOT BE REPUBLISHED

Update: This story has been updated to reflect the latest reported death of an individual. As of 4:55 p.m. on June 19, two people have died as a result of the fires, according to New Mexico State Police.

Update: The maps in this story have been updated to reflect the latest acreage totals and perimeters released Wednesday morning. As of 5:59 p.m. on June 18, the South Fork Fire has grown to 16,335 acres (about 25.5 square miles), and the Salt Fire has grown to 7,071 acres (about 11 square miles).

Two large fires in southeastern New Mexico have damaged or destroyed 1,400 buildings and taken at least two peoples lives, according to the New Mexico governors office and New Mexico State Forestry.

The South Fork Fire and Salt Fire started on Monday, with the South Fork Fire discovered around 9 a.m. and the Salt Fire around 2 p.m. They originated in or near the Mescalero Apache Reservation and are threatening homes and lives in Ruidoso, Ruidoso Downs and areas nearby.

As of Tuesday evening, the fires totaled more than 20,000 acres and were 0% contained, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said.

These are very serious fires, the governor told reporters at a news conference in Santa Fe.

Shortly after the news conference, a spokesperson for the governors office said one person has died as a result of the fire. They said the information came from official channels but could not provide any more information.

Lujan Grisham said authorities have been contacted by people who are looking for their family members. She encouraged people searching for lost loved ones to call the 24/7 hotline at (833) NMFIRE6 or (833) 663-4736.

We do want to hear from you, we do want to support you, she said. We send the (National) Guard or the police to make those contacts.

Lujan Grisham could not say how many people are missing, trapped, stuck or otherwise unable to leave along the established evacuation routes. She said she was personally aware of two people who needed to be located.

If you believe that youve got a loved one that is in jeopardy, we want to know about it, Lujan Grisham said. We want to do everything we can to locate them.

According to a spokesperson for state Forestry, 1,400 structures were "lost" as of Tuesday evening.

We dont want people informally in those areas, trying to garner information out of context, and putting their own lives at risk, Lujan Grisham said. When you do that, you potentially put other lives at risk.

Five-thousand people have fled from Ruidoso on Monday evening, with many staying with friends and family, Lujan Grisham said.

More than 500 people are staying in 10 different shelters and service centers mostly in Roswell, along with the Inn of the Mountain Gods, Lujan Grisham said.

Crews also rescued seven patients from the Lincoln County Medical Center, she said.

Another 15 people living at the Good Life Senior Living and Memory Care Ruidoso were taken to the Ruidoso Convention Center, according to a spokesperson for the New Mexico Department of Health. A dozen of them were picked up by family, and staff accompanied the remaining three who were evacuated to Artesia, the spokesperson said.

Then on Tuesday, the city of Ruidoso Downs was ordered to evacuate.

The men and women who put their lives on the line including State Police, firefighters, the Guards men and women and their families, are doing amazing work, Lujan Grisham said. And the number of New Mexicans who  on their own  are helping with livestock and resources and are offering up their own homes for shelter, shows me once again, the generosity and the compassion of the people in this state.

Lujan Grisham said she is expecting requests for federal emergency disaster declarations to be delivered to the federal government within the next 24 hours. That will allow federal disaster relief resources, potentially including housing, individual aid and support for local governments into New Mexico.

Extreme fire behavior, state forester says

State Forester Laura McCarthy said the fire is dangerous and moving fast.

The fire behavior that we saw yesterday and that is picking up now this afternoon is extreme fire behavior, McCarthy said.

On Tuesday afternoon, both fires were marching steadily to the east, but around 2 p.m. fire perimeters maps produced by the National Interagency Fire Center show a slight shift toward the west.

The weather has allowed pilots to work with bulldozers and hotshot crews on the ground to build fire lines, and find and put out any spot fires from blown embers before they take hold, McCarthy said.

She said winds and other conditions have not reached Red Flag level, which means elevated risk of fire due to low humidity, dry conditions and high winds. But they are close.

She said the local weather is dynamic, with winds shifting from the southwest to the west because of a cold front that will bring moisture either on Wednesday or Thursday. Any rainfall could change the fires behavior, McCarthy said.

Eight hundred people from 17 different federal and state agencies are responding to the fire, Lujan Grisham said, along with 13 wildfire hotshot crews and several other specialist fire teams.

The causes of both fires are still to be determined, the governor said.

Investigators havent ruled out whether the blazes stemmed from natural or human causes, she said, noting that there were reports of lightning. Any number of causes are possible, she said, including human activity.

She cautioned the public against speculating about the cause and instead focus on how to help those affected while the investigation proceeds. Six investigators, overseen by the Bureau of Land Management, are on the case, McCarthy said.

Dont drink the water, NMED says

After 5 p.m. on Tuesday, the New Mexico Environment Department issued a precautionary water advisory for nine water systems in Lincoln County serving more than 24,000 people, due to possible contamination related to the wildfire impacts.

Environment officials are telling the public to seek other sources of drinking water until the advisory is lifted. The water can still be used for non-drinking purposes like washing clothes and dishes, NMED said.

Travel in and around the southeastern part of the state is not allowable with road closures, and is discouraged where roads are open, Lujan Grisham said.

Cell service was not readily available for most communities in Lincoln County on Monday night, Lujan Grisham said, but most cellular service has been restored.

That can change. Were working to make sure we never lose emergency communications, Lujan Grisham said.

There was a loss of power in the area, though PNM had restored it to most homes, Lujan Grisham said. However, some parts of the Mescalero Apache Nation were still without power, she said.

How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke

People in Ruidoso and in the areas surrounding the South Fork fire can reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke and the tiny particles in it by staying indoors, said Srikanth Paladugu the Environmental Health Epidemiology Bureau chief for New Mexicos Department of Health.

Instead, Paladugu recommends creating a clean room in your house. The EPAs guidance for creating a clean room involves closing all windows and doors in one room and placing an air purifier with a HEPA filter in the room.

DOH does not hand out HEPA filters, Paladugu said.

DOH recommends not using an evaporative cooler if there is smoke coming into your home, he said.

A high-quality, well-fitting respirator, such as an N95, will always help in situations where smoke is coming into someones home, or if someone must complete an essential task outdoors, Paladugu said.

For people outside the fires immediate area, Paladugu said people should use the 5-3-1 visibility method to determine what precautions to take to reduce exposure, depending on how far you can see landmarks in the distance.

Where to donate money and supplies

The governor and other officials are encouraging people to donate to the Greatest Needs Impact Fund for Lincoln & Otero, run by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico.

Anyone can drop off donations of supplies to the National Guard Armory in Roswell at 1 E Earl Cummings Loop, said Adjutant General and acting Homeland Security and Emergency Management secretary Miguel Aguilar.

We didnt want to overwhelm all the shelters with various types of drop-offs, as theyre trying to take care of our evacuees, Aguilar said. If you take your donations to National Guard Armory, we will distribute them to those shelters as theyre needed.

Resources

The 24/7 hotline to call is (833) NMFIRE6 or (833) 663-4736.

For information about the fire, go to dhsem.nm.gov.

To get help with an insurance claim, call the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance at 1 (833) 485-1336.

Source New Mexico reporter Patrick Lohmann contributed to this report.

The post Two people dead, several rescued at senior living center and hospital from southeastern wildfires appeared first on Source New Mexico.
One person struck by train, killed in NOTO

One person struck by train, killed in NOTO

TOPEKA (KSNT)  Topeka Police are assisting Union Pacific with a train incident that left one person dead.

Officers with the Topeka Police Department (TPD) responded to a medical call at 5:07 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, near North Kansas Avenue and Northeast Norris Street. A Union Pacific spokeswoman told 27 News a Union Pacific train struck and killed one individual. No Union Pacific crews were injured in this incident.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

A TPD spokeswoman said officers are on scene and assisting Union Pacific who is leading the investigation.

This is a developing story. 27 News will provide more information as it 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 KSNT 27 News.
The Only Black Woman to Serve in the U.S. Army in WWI

A member of the 52nd Telegraph Battalion speaks on a telephone at a crossroads in the Argonne Wood near Montfaucon, Meuse, France in 1918, during World War I. Credit - US Army/Getty Images

African-American heroines are everywhere in U.S. history  though they were often unseen by contemporaries. Sometimes, they simply hid.

Juneteenth is a fitting occasion to celebrate one woman who did just that: Renee Messelin was a member of the first unit of American women soldiers who served in World War I. Yet her full identity remained hidden until just last week, more than a century after she served.

In a famous photograph taken outdoors in Paris in March 1918, Messelin sits to the left of two other uniformed women and stares straight ahead. Thirty women soldiers stand behind them, many with eyes riveted skyward for incoming artillery. They had been bombarded the night before.

While the photo has long been famous, no one knew at the time that Messelin was Black. Instead, she hid her race, knowing that the Army would not accept Black women. Her deception reveals the lengths to which some citizens went to serve their nation at a time when women couldnt vote and Jim Crow robbed Black Americans of the rights won after the Civil War.

When the head of the American Expeditionary Forces arrived in Paris in 1917, he discovered that trained men needed a full minute to patch through a telephone call, so he cabled Washington. On account of the great difficulty of obtaining properly qualified men, request organization and dispatch to France of force of woman telephone operators all speaking French and English equally well, General John Pershing wrote in 1917. All should be uniformed and take the Army oath.

Read More: Why Four Black Women Stood Up to the U.S. Army During World War II

The Army responded with press releases to newspapers across the nation in November 1917, recruiting women. Seventy-six hundred volunteered for 100 spots.

As the Army soon found, female telephone operators patched through five calls per minute. Commands to advance, fire, and retreat were delivered mostly by phone in World War I. Five commands per minute, instead of only one, was a matter of life and death.

During the fiercest fighting at the Battles of St. Mihiel and Meuse-Argonne, women combatants operated switchboards 24 hours a day. Six units of these Hello Girls patched through 26 million vital messages over the course of the war.

Messelin was one of these women, and one of their leaders. The child of two eminent Black Chicagoans, she was committed to making her mark. Her mother, Mamie Caldwell Rich, was a benefactor of the Phyllis Wheatley Home for Black women fleeing the South. Her father, Mack Caldwell  who had died a decade earlier  had been Grand Secretary for the United Brotherhood of Railway Porters, a union of African-American railway workers and the predecessor of the most influential Black union in the nation.

Although race was not a question on the Armys form, Messelin would have known that African-American women need not apply. Of the 233 female soldiers who ultimately served in France, all were thought to be white until the recent revelation about Messelins race.

Because operators could overhear every classified military call, Army Intelligence scrutinized applicants. This did not keep some from successfully hiding their own secrets, however. In Messelins unit, for example, two sisters from Berkeley tricked investigators into believing they were 18 and 21, rather than 16 and 18.

On her application, Messelin listed her hometown as Marseilles, taking advantage of the fact that she had married a Frenchman and learned his language. In reality, Messelin was born in Chicago and had moved to San Francisco. In a charming French lilt, she also lied that she did not know her mothers address in France.

Investigators had little incentive to push Messelin or probe her story further. Pershing urgently needed bilingual, educated, trustworthy women. Messelin fit the description to a tee. Even better, she was an experienced telephone operator with supervisory experience.

Within three months, she had won appointment as one of four supervisors under Grace Banker, commander of the first unit. Each supervisor would manage a telephone exchange near the front or behind the lines. As Messelin boarded a troop transport for France, she asked the Army to record her emergency contact as a friend in Chicago, Mrs. Mamie Rich  who was actually her mother.

In Paris, Messelin rose steadily in rank, and was among those women whom the Army refused to discharge until 10 months past the Armistice, long after most men returned home. They ran communications for the Versailles Peace Conference, U.S. occupation of Germany, and demobilization of the Army. When he finally let her go in August 1919, the Chief Signal Officer in France wrote to Messelin, You personally have been of material assistance in proving the success of the experiment of utilizing skilled telephone women with the Army at War.

Despite their invaluable service, the Army denied Messelin  and every other female soldier veterans benefits upon return. In 1926, the Army even dropped her name from a strangely incomplete list of those who had served, despite that iconic 1918 photo. Perhaps some bureaucrat had privately guessed Messelins secret and silently denied her even that honor.

Read More: The Women Who Revolutionized Nursing During the American Civil War

The Hello Girls fought for 60 years, until 1977, to receive formal recognition as veterans. Messelin died that same year, before she could be buried with a flag on her coffin or an appropriate grave marker.

The truth about her race only came out this week, in time for Juneteenth, thanks to Diane Boettcher of Maryland, a retired Navy Captain and enterprising genealogist, who recently joined a nationwide team of volunteers advocating for the awarding of a Congressional Gold Medal for the Hello Girls and working with the Department of Veterans Affairs to properly designate their graves. Looking closely, Boettcher found that a few details in Messelins service record did not add up. Checking census and birth records, she found that Messelin was the daughter of Mamie Rich, not her friend, as earlier recorded, or aunt, as claimed on yet another Army manifest.

Boettcher contacted Jill Frahm and myself, both historians of the Hello Girls. Boettcher confirmed Messelins parentage while Frahm and I corroborated her leadership role.

The historical record shows that masquerading as white to subvert racial restrictions often came at the cost of family and friends. Passing sometimes meant abandoning precious relationships for a self-imposed exile. Historians may never know exactly why Renee Messelin decided to risk such a loss, but it was this daring ruse that allowed her to serve her country in its hour of need.

The American Historical Association and 55 eminent scholars, including six winners of the Pulitzer Prize, have petitioned Congress to grant the Hello Girls a Congressional Gold Medal. Renee Messelin certainly deserves one. Stories like hers remind citizens  and our armed forces of the value of pluralism and the critical contributions made by women and African Americans to national defense. They have long overcome significant discrimination to play critical roles in safeguarding the U.S.

Elizabeth Cobbs is author of The Hello Girls: Americas First Women Soldiers and Dwight Stanford Emerita Professor at San Diego State University.

Made by History takes readers beyond the headlines with articles written and edited by professional historians. Learn more about Made by History at TIME here. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors.

Write to Made by History at madebyhistory@time.com.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, attends the meeting of the German Cabinet in the Federal Chancellery. Kay Nietfeld/dpa

More than 300 advocacy groups and international organizations have written an open letter to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz opposing the possibility of holding asylum seekers in third countries for processing.

"Please issue a clear rejection of plans to outsource asylum procedures," the authors demand in the letter published on Wednesday. The signatories include Amnesty International Germany, Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) and the migrant advocacy group Pro Asyl.

The open letter was released ahead of Scholz's meeting with the the leaders of Germany's 16 states on Thursday in Berlin, where the issue is expected to be a major topic.

Germany's Interior Ministry is currently examining the possibility of outsourcing asylum proceedings to third countries outside the European Union.

State interior ministers are also convening for a three-day beginning on Wednesday evening which is expected to be dominated with talk of migration policy, asylum and deportations. They are meeting in Potsdam, a Berlin suburb.

The killing of a policeman by a knife-wielding migrant in late May in the German city of Mannheim has prompted renewed debate about whether Germany should deport people convicted of serious crimes to countries like Syria and Afghanistan.

Deportations to those countries as well as third-country asylum proceedings are expected to be discussed during the three-day meeting of interior ministers, which opens on Wednesday evening and runs through Friday.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, attends the meeting of the German Cabinet in the Federal Chancellery. Kay Nietfeld/dpa

More than 300 advocacy groups and international organizations have written an open letter to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz opposing the possibility of holding asylum seekers in third countries for processing.

"Please issue a clear rejection of plans to outsource asylum procedures," the authors demand in the letter published on Wednesday. The signatories include Amnesty International Germany, Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) and the migrant advocacy group Pro Asyl.

The open letter was released ahead of Scholz's meeting with the the leaders of Germany's 16 states on Thursday in Berlin, where the issue is expected to be a major topic.

Germany's Interior Ministry is currently examining the possibility of outsourcing asylum proceedings to third countries outside the European Union.

State-level interior ministers also begin convening on Wednesday evening for three days of talks which are expected to be dominated with talk of migration policy, asylum and deportations. They are meeting in Potsdam, a Berlin suburb.

The killing of a policeman by a knife-wielding migrant in late May in the German city of Mannheim has prompted renewed debate about whether Germany should deport people convicted of serious crimes to countries like Syria and Afghanistan.

The authors of the open letter warn that serious human rights abuses are foreseeable if asylum proceedings are outsourced to countries outside the EU. They argue that receiving asylum-seekers and integrating them into society can work smoothly with greater cooperation.

"Plans to deport refugees to non-European third countries or to carry out asylum procedures outside the EU, on the other hand, do not work in practice, are extremely expensive and pose a threat to the rule of law," the letters states.

According to the authors, current debate about the plan in both Germany and other EU countries is already having an impact.

"Such plans often cause great fear among refugees and increase the risk of self-harm and suicide," according to the letter.

Scholz announced plans to resume deportations to those countries after the Mannheim attack, despite concerns from advocates about the human rights abuses there. Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, a Green, spoke out in favour of that on Wednesday as well.
Theres a phrase people sometimes use when they want to insult somebodysay, for example, mewho spends too much time thinking about and discussing somebody elsesay, for example, Donald Trump: Youre letting Trump live rent-free in your head.

I hate that.

The insult stings because it happens to be true. I really do spend an inordinate amount of time thinking/reading/writing about our previous president.

Michael Ian Black: Can We Stop Acting Shocked About Alito Family Shenanigans?

That wasnt always the case. Years ago, in fact, I was at some New York City event or other when I noticed Trump saunter up and start chatting with Ice-T. At the time, Trump was just a tacky jerk who made the NYC party rounds. Dont ask me what they talked about because I didnt even care enough to eavesdrop. The only reason I even remember the occasion is because I once found the surreptitious photo I took of the two to commemorate the weirdness of that pairing. (A photo which I have had no success in locating to accompany this piece.)

Through The Apprentice years, I had no thoughts of Trump whatsoever. If he occupied any portion of my mind, I devoted about the same square footage to him as I did for the old candy Bit O Honey. Not none, but pretty darn close.

That all changed in 2015 when Trump hired a bunch of actors to applaud him as he rode down an escalator to announce his absurd run for President of the United States of America. From that moment on, my thoughts increasingly turned to the man who would soon become our narcissist-in-chief.

It wasnt so much that I cared about Trump the person; as far as I could tell, he was the same fatuous loser hed always been. What changed for me was the nation. Or, perhaps, changed is the wrong word. Perhaps I should say that Trump, uniquely among all presidential candidates I have ever witnessed, revealed the nation to me.

As that miserable campaign season dragged on and on, I experienced what people in the UFO community call ontological shock, a rapid and radical shift in worldview. I couldnt believe that so many of my fellow Americans not only supported his platform of cruelty and exclusion but adopted that platform as their personal creed. Here, at last, they seemed to think, was somebody giving us permissionand celebratingall of our worst human impulses.

Its like theyd been waiting decades to finally unleash the Karen.

And here Ill use another tired phrase: I thought we were better than that. I really did.

Michael Ian Black: UFO Whistleblower David Grusch Is My Hero of 2023

I thought the heat from the previous half-century of progress had finally cooled enough to harden into the permanent national consciousness. Nope. Turns out a sizeable percentage of the population believed that wed already progressed as far as they would like, thank you very much, and maybe we actually needed to back the fuck up a few steps.

I made the classic mistake of thinking that just because all of my friends supported basic ideas like gay marriage, equal pay for equal work, congressional districts that represent the people who live there, and the separation of church and state, that the rest of the nation basically agreed, even if their acquiescence was occasionally begrudging.

Sure, I thought, there would always be loons on the far right who would make noises about repealing Roe v. Wade but, as every judicial nominee had answered since days of yore (or at least since 1973), access to abortion was settled law. Thats what I thought, but, as Ive often said, Im an idiot.

Once he was elected, I expected Trump to be among our worst presidents. The actual experience of living through that administration, however, was horrifying as much for its incompetence as its malfeasance. Dont misunderstand, the malfeasance was plentiful, but it would have been worse had he not also been so spectacularly incompetent.

Then the COVID pandemic hit, and the line between incompetence and malfeasance blurred so much as to become indistinguishable. We all saw the results.

Michael Ian Black: Screw It, Lets Hold the 2024 Election Tomorrow

Does anybody feel like going through that again? Apparently, they do. Trump is currently either slightly ahead or tied in most polls.

So yes, I really do allow Trump to live rent-free in my head. To evict him now would be to turn away from the threat this mans movement has provoked for the nation and the world.

While he gets to live up there for free, it certainly costs me a great deal to spend as much time as I do obsessing about him, but the way I think of it is simple: we either pay now or we pay later. I prefer to pay now, before the cost has risen even higher.

Whether I like it or not, Im going to allow Donald Trump to continue to let him live up there, rent-free, for just a little while longer. Then, when hes lost another election, I can finally kick him to the curb for good. With luck, he will take up free residence somewhere elsea jail cell, perhaps.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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BEIJING, June 19 (Xinhua) -- International bank card organizations such as Mastercard and American Express have accelerated efforts aimed at optimizing payment services in China, in order to satisfy ever-growing payment needs in the deepening opening-up process of the world's second-largest economy.

Motivated by the advantages of operating in the large-scale Chinese market, global bank card companies have been constantly enhancing their services, ranging from expansion of the scope of cooperating merchants to the upgrading of payment limits on merchandise.

In the latest move to expand its business layout in China, Mastercard NetsUnion Information Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd. (Mastercard NetsUnion), a joint venture of Mastercard and NetsUnion Clearing Corporation, has introduced a brand new bank card called China Mastercard, taking this step just over a month after it officially launched its bank card clearing operations on May 9.

Currently, China Mastercard holders not only have the ability to shop at more than 100 million merchants around the world, but can also add the card to Chinese e-commerce platforms such as Alipay, WeChat, JD.com and Meituan as well as overseas digital wallets, said Zheng Xiaofei, CEO of Mastercard NetsUnion.

In addition, the company has also cooperated with more than 30 digital wallet platforms in expanding shopping scenarios for its customers from daily consumption to merchandise such as automobiles and real estate.

In the future, the company plans to promote contactless payment methods while continue to cooperate with digital wallet platforms and bank card issuers in order to improve the convenience and security of its payment services, Zheng said.

"We are very optimistic about the Chinese market which is large enough, and we are confident to do business well here," said Ling Hai, who is chairman of Mastercard NetsUnion. Ling added that the joint venture will provide more differentiated and refined services and deliver expanded technology relevant to the bank card clearing business.

Ling believes that there are quite a few favorable conditions for developing businesses in China at the moment. On the one hand, booming international tourism and e-commerce activities have promoted more vigorous demand for cross-border payments in the Chinese market.

On the other hand, the time is right for Mastercard NetsUnion to beef up its business layout in China, as the country is building a payment ecosystem that is fully-accessible, diversified and "more compatible with the rest of the world."

Mastercard is the second overseas bank card clearing institution to enter the Chinese market, following American Express. Express (Hangzhou) Technology Service Co. Ltd., a joint venture of American Express and Lianlian in China, has cooperated with a number of banks and non-bank payment institutions to expand the scope of businesses accepting American Express bank cards in the Chinese market.

Notably, a number of world-famous hotels, duty-free shops, and catering businesses have already accepted domestic and overseas versions of American Express bank cards.

The opening up of the bank card clearing market is an important part of the opening up of China's financial industry. In recent years, China's financial regulators have set equal standards for foreign and domestic bank card clearing institutions in terms of setting-up conditions and procedures as well as business management, while making it easier for such institutions to apply for licenses.

Investing in and supporting the business expansion of the joint venture are important steps in promoting the diversified development of the payment and clearing markets in China, Luo Yanfeng said.

Luo, Party secretary of NetsUnion Clearing Corporation, shareholder of Mastercard NetsUnion, noted that the investment is also "a concrete manifestation of implementing high-level opening-up policies in China's financial industry."

With a slew of opening-up measures introduced, foreign bank card clearing institutions can now provide services related to renminbi bank cards by setting up commercial entities in China, instead of having to cooperate with domestic clearing institutions in conducting relevant business activities.

Improvement of the payment system is the foundation of the development of China's financial system, said Zeng Gang, director of the Shanghai Institution for Finance and Development.

He noted that allowing overseas bank card clearing institutions to enter the domestic market is conducive to constructing a reasonable and stable market structure featuring effective competition.

"The active expansion pace of Mastercard NetsUnion's businesses in China shows our determination to continue to deepen the Chinese market," Ari Sarker, president for Asia Pacific at Mastercard said, adding that Mastercard has witnessed and participated in the exciting development process in China, where a more and more "silky" payment experience has benefited everyone.

The company is looking forward to providing an even better payment experience to Chinese consumers in the future, Sarker said. 
Some readers may be surprised to learn that many U.S. high schools deny entry to legally eligible students. It is, after all, conventional wisdom that public schools are open to all families and that they eagerly seek to serve all potential students.

I, unfortunately, am not surprised at all. Jo Napolitanos great investigative work confirms what my organization, Available to All, has seen in many different contexts: First, public school staffers often have incentives to turn away particular students, especially those who they perceive to be particularly difficult to educate. Second, there is little legal oversight of enrollment practices in most public schools. Finally, even where there are legal requirements, there is minimal oversight and enforcement.

Related

Home

Available to All launched in early 2023 as a nonpartisan watchdog defending equal access to public schools. We have documented many cases in which schools turn away students, either unfairly or illegally, based on discriminatory criteria:

 Districts have hired private detectives to spy on children after school, conduct residency checks and sometimes prosecute parents for accessing the wrong public school.

 An 8-year-old boy with a disability in Tucson was told he was no longer welcome at the school he was attending, and his open enrollment seat was being revoked because the special education program was full.

 A magnet school in Houston accepts $2 million in additional district funding every year for specialized programs, despite not admitting a single student from outside the attendance zone. The former superintendent of the Houston district calls this practice being magnet in name only.

 A scandal erupted in Philadelphia over a charter high school that, instead of using an admissions lottery as required by state law, gave privileged access to students from certain zip codes or preferred feeder middle schools. Meanwhile, empowered by state law, the Philadelphia school district operates over 240 schools using a default assignment system of feeder patterns based on the childs address.

 In Tampa, a failing school closed, requiring the district to find a new school for hundreds of low-income elementary students. But not a single one of these students was allowed to enroll in the A-rated schools that were minutes from their homes. Instead, they were bused to majority-minority schools with much lower student achievement.

 Schools in Atlanta, Dallas and Chicago spent $10 million to $20 million each to add capacity to coveted public elementary schools, even though there were thousands of empty seats at nearby schools  just to preserve privileged access for families who bought homes in the attendance zone.

 Children in Roseville, California, were denied the opportunity to enroll in a brand-new elementary school just blocks from their home and instead were bused 20 minutes away to a school in the Center Joint Unified School District, because of an archaic, gerrymandered district line.

 A school board in a wealthy Connecticut suburb declined to participate in a pilot open enrollment program because it would have required admitting just 16 kids from neighboring Norwalk, which has more middle- and low-income students.

All of the above, except for the charter schools admissions policies, are legal in 21st-century America under federal and state law. Now, thanks to Napolitanos reporting in The 74, we know there is another reason that schools will deny eligible students a seat in their school: their age and immigration status.

What these stories hint at is that public schools have a tough job, and sometimes staffers will be reluctant to take students who they perceive will be harder to educate. You can hear it from the school staffer in Napolitanos story who claims, without any evidence, that the prospective immigrant student is going to be a dropout.

Something similar happens with schools that protect themselves through educational redlining  the attendance zone lines and district boundaries that schools use to turn certain kids away. In a recent story in The 74, Marianna McMurdock quoted an anonymous school staffer as saying the lines are often weaponized to expel certain students whom the school would prefer not to deal with.

Related

Report: State by State, How Segregation Legally Continues 7 Decades Post Brown

This is why the country so desperately needs reform in this area of the law. Last month, my organization published a report, The Broken Promise of Brown v. Board of Ed: A 50-State Report on Legal Discrimination in Public School Admissions. In the report, we call on state legislators to pass new laws that will hold public schools to the highest standards of openness. Families should have the legal right to apply to any public school, and the school should be required to publish a formal letter of denial if a child is rejected, explaining the legal basis for the decision. Every public school should be required to publish application and enrollment data, and every American family should have the right to appeal denial of enrollment to a neutral third party (as families already do in a handful of states, including California and Arkansas).

Napolitanos reporting should also be a call to action for all journalists, nonprofits and government agencies in K-12 education: The country needs more people who will shine a light on enrollment policies and hold public schools to their sacred mission of providing equal opportunity for all students.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The Oregon Zoo and its foundation have doled out $133,500 to their conservation partners across the globe.

According to Director of Education and Conservation Melanie Sorensen, the zoos partnerships benefit some of the most celebrated and endangered species worldwide.

Ballot initiative seeking $750 for every Oregonian likely to make ballot

The Oregon Zoo is well known for its work in the Pacific Northwest, restoring California condors, butterflies and other native wildlife, Sorensen said. But we also have a global impact that extends across three continents.

A portion of grant money will go toward Hutan, an organization focused on biodiversity and reforestation in a Malaysian region with a variety of orangutans, elephants, clouded leopards and more.

Similar to Hutan, two other awardees are based in Sabah, Malaysia. Seratu Aatai will use the funding to improve human-elephant coexistence in the region while the Sabah Wildlife Department will cover wildlife ranger roles and rescued elephant treatment.

Another portion of funds have been allocated to Polar Bears International, which works to protect polar bears in the Arctic. The World Wildlife Fund reported the region is warming about twice as fast as the global average, hindering the species that calls it home.

Portland Pickles fans can now buy THC seltzers at home games

The Oregon Zoo Foundation has also awarded the Tiger Conservation Fund, with a focus on habitat loss for the Sumatran, Amur and Malayan subspecies of tigers. All species have long been considered as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Similarly, IUCN will receive some funding to support its species conservation planning.

The Elakha Alliance, the International Rhino Foundation, Chimpanzee and Asian Elephant SAFE will benefit from the awards as well. Learn more about their programs and initiatives here.

Propane explosions damage road, I-5 northbound remains closed

The Oregon Zoo Foundations grants stem from admission surcharges and endowments.

Generous gifts from our supporters help the zoo create a better world for wildlife, people and the habitats we all depend on. Foundation Executive Director Jennifer Rider said 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 KOIN.com.
So much for having a little fun with your food.

A playful spin on a popular Outback Steakhouse dish was short-lived, after a St. Petersburg restaurant received a cease-and-desist letter from Outbacks parent company last week.

Vegan restaurant Good Intentions had been selling a crispy-fried Onion Blossom  a play on Outbacks Bloomin Onion  as part of a temporary prix-fixe menu when they received a letter from Bloomin Brands, the Tampa-based parent company of Outback Steakhouse, accusing the restaurant of trademark infringement.

Your use of the term Blooming Onion is in direct violation of the Companys trademark rights, as it is confusingly similar to our registered mark, simply adding one letter, the letter, dated June 14, stated. Additionally, your use of the mountain range horizon logo with the words Good Intentions is also in direct violation of the Companys trademark rights.

Good Intentions co-owner Jenny Howe told the Tampa Bay Times the wording and artwork were nothing more than a promotional pun, offered as part of Creative Loafings Tampa Bay Restaurant Week. To promote the meal, the restaurant created a logo similar to Outback Steakhouses with a similar font and a palm tree in front.

Howe also said the St. Petersburg restaurant never called the dish a Blooming Onion, in their social media or on their menu, but that Tampa Bay Restaurant Week promotional copy had the phrasing.

In response to an email request, Bloomin Brands issued the following statement: Outback got its start in Tampa as a single independent restaurant. It took tremendous drive and hard work to develop it into what it is today. Just as we respect the brands and trademarks of others, we ask others to do the same.

Upon receiving the letter from Bloomin Brands, Howe said, the restaurant promptly removed the wording and logo.

The Good Intentions team still had some tongue-in-cheek fun with the incident, however.

Wallaby darned! Our Restaurant Week special is so good and just right, the people right out-back took notice! the owners wrote in an Instagram caption accompanying a copy of the letter. Come and get it before it ceases and desists!

This was the last week of restaurant week so we might as well poke some fun at it, Howe said. I think its funny that these big businesses come for the little guys  it just happens to be silliness.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  On Tuesday, Republic Square Park in downtown Austin hosted its first Summer Sunset Series of the summer.

Were so excited to be here, its a beautiful day, said Kimberly Ornelas, who worked the evening at the Goode Health tent  one of the vendors for the event.

The park is typically busy during the day, but multiple organizations have reported issues overnight related to property crime and illegal camping.

Now, though overnight vandalism and other crime is down at Republic Square, according to the Downtown Austin Alliance (DAA).

The group launched an overnight security pilot program last year to curb the problem, and found it successful enough to run full time.

In recent years, we began to see negative activity or evidence of negative activity in the overnight hours, said the DAAs Bill Brice. Evidence of people having camped out illegally in the park overnight, evidence of people breaking electrical fixtures or lighting fixtures, trying to break into the electrical facility or the food kiosk.

The pilot program launched in October 2023. Security guards monitored the park from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

We saw all of that activity basically cease. All of the vandalism, camping in the park illegally overnight, all of that activity ceased immediately once we added overnight security in the park, Brice said.

So the DAA made the decision to make this a full-time operation. However, instead of contracting with private security, the DAA trained street-level staff to operate as members of a safety team. Part of their role is conducting those overnight patrols at the park.

Austin Police: Downtown crime down over last eight months

In October the Austin Police Department (APD) launched an initiative to beef up downtown patrols. Now, Lt. Christopher Juusola, the operations lieutenant for the Downtown Area Command (DTAC), said the program has had an immediate positive impact.

The initiative was born from downtown stakeholder complaints primarily related to property crime and other quality of life issues.

The vast majority of crimes in DTAC dropped compared to the year(s) prior, Juusola said. Crimes against person were slightly lower and crimes against property was significantly lower.

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.
MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA)  The owner of Pawsitively Paradise, a dog training facility in Florida, has been arrested and charged with animal cruelty, according to the Martin County Sheriffs Office.

Months of investigation into the suspicious deaths of three dogs left in the care of Nikki Camerlengos business in Palm City led to the discovery that the animals died as a result of blunt force trauma.

Third dog dies in care of owner of Florida pet boarding facility, deputies investigating

Camerlengo was arrested Wednesday and faces one count of felony animal cruelty. She was first arrested in Fort Pierce after moving the grooming and boarding business when the sheriffs office initially opened a criminal investigation.

Back in March, the sheriffs office received its third formal complaint about the death of a dog under this facility. 2-year-old Beau, a Cavapoo puppy, died under their care, along with Flurie, a 15-year-old Goldendoodle, and Mako, a 2-year-old Flat Coat Retriever, who died under Camerlengos care. Officials said all dogs were in good health when they were first taken to her business.

The Cavapoo was found to have severe blows to the neck, chest, belly, and private areas, causing hemorrhaging to the brain, officials said.

Sickening: Puppy dies after being found alongside Florida road; man arrested

The sheriffs office said the Goldendoodle died from acute hemorrhaging to the brain and the Flat Coat Retriever drowned in his own vomit, according to a private necropsy.

Forensic experts revealed that the dogs did not die quickly, instead they succumbed to long and painful deaths, officials said.

Martin County Sheriffs Office

Martin County Sheriffs Office

Martin County Sheriffs Office

Martin County Sheriffs Office

Martin County Sheriffs Office

One of Camerlengos customers, Alexis Kaclik, spoke to NBC affiliate WPTV, saying she went to the sheriffs office on April 1 to report an incident from 2018 involving this facility. She said her dog was extremely sick and seemed to have trouble breathing.

I had brought her into the vet and she ended up having a partially collapsed trachea, Kaclik told WPTV. She added that while her dog is still alive, she isnt back to normal.

Last year, the MCSOs Animal Services wrote six citations to the facility for improper care issues. They also received unconfirmed information regarding additional dog deaths.

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.
More than 100,000 Palestinians have fled Gaza for Cairo. Here, a Palestinian woman looks at a photo of the rubble of her destroyed building in the Gaza strip, while sitting in a cafe in Cairo. Johannes Sadek/dpa

Riham is heavily pregnant and just days away from giving birth, but she has no idea who will cover her hospital expenses.

She fled Gaza when she was six months pregnant and has repeatedly asked the Palestinian embassy in Egypt for help, so far in vain. "All I got was promises that everything will be fine."

Riham is one of more than 100,000 Palestinians who fled to Egypt to escape the fighting in Gaza. "Now, I should give birth in a week and nothing happened."

Most are in Cairo, stuck in limbo, unable to return to Gaza but also unable to start a new life, either.

She and her compatriots lack the necessary documents and funds to rent a flat, open a bank account, pay medical bills or send their children to school.

"I have no money, no work, I will not be able to live," she says.

Riham is not her real name, she was unwilling to share it with dpa, as were others, reluctant to appear in the news.

Riham, 28, came to Cairo along with her 3-year-old son and her mother-in-law, who has breast cancer.

They did not have enough money for her husband to escape Gaza as leaving costs $5,000 and is organized through some questionable Egyptian travel agencies.

They are grateful that at least the Palestinian embassy is paying for a flat for the three of them. But life is still a struggle amid the Israeli war on Gaza, unleashed by the October 7 attacks on Israel by the militant Palestinian organization Hamas.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) does not have a mandate to help refugees in Egypt and the Gazans who have fled there are in need but are not registered as refugees.

Their residence status is unclear, they are stuck in a legal grey zone, tolerated, often invisible in the sprawling city that is home to 23 million people. Most have to find a way to manage on their own, or rely on support from other Palestinians or volunteer organizations.

The question of their residency status is "the mother of all issues," Palestinian ambassador to Egypt, Diab al-Louh, told dpa.

"I arrived here two weeks ago," says Chalid, 19. "I am on my own, living on the streets most of the time."

He lost an eye and his arm was badly injured after a bombing in Gaza - and spent three days lying under rubble. "I do not have money, I do not know where to go."

He pulls out his mobile phone to show the video he has of the moment volunteers pulled him out from below the rubble. He is almost unrecognisable his face covered in blood and dust.

Many of those who fled Gaza are injured and need medical treatment of some sort. Some have had a leg or arm amputated, others have burns. Children and young people are suffering from trauma. And then there are those with serious health problems, such as cancer patients.

Salma, who was also trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed building, suffered severe bruising. She describes being bounced around by Egyptian doctors. Quality care is scarce in Egypt, with state hospitals often poorly equipped and staff underpaid.

The war continues to rage just hours away, as Israel seeks to eliminate Hamas, which attacked sites in southern Israel on October 7, killing some 1,200 people and abducted about 250 more to Gaza.

Israel responded by pounding Gaza with airstrikes and launched a ground offensive into the sealed-off Palestinian territory at the end of October with the stated aim of eliminating Hamas.

More than 37,300 people have been killed and more than 85,000 injured in the course of the Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip, according to the Hamas-controlled health authority in Gaza.

The war could go on for another six months or more, Israel's national security advisor has said.

To help Gazans in Cairo, a network of volunteers is providing as much humanitarian support as possible. Among them is a mother of two who has a full-time job but who searches for storage space for relief supplies that people donate.

Others are doctors who ask their colleagues to treat people at a lower cost, communicating through WhatsApp groups.

Another is a businessman who rents out empty flats in a Cairo suburb and makes them habitable.

One of the first was John Flynn, known as Quinn, who hurried to Egypt from the US right after the October attacks.

He made TikTok videos about his trip which drew offers from viewers who wanted to provide him with a place to stay or pay for his flight ticket, he says. He has since become a kind of grassroots ambassador, helping bring people into contact with one another.

Another helper, a 28-year-old Canadian woman, also dropped everything to come to Egypt, arriving in November and initially only planning to stay a month.

She remains in Cairo today, tirelessly ensuring that families receive essential necessities day after day.

They are part of a group of 1,600 volunteers who have travelled from places as distant as Ireland, Malaysia, and South Africa. Others support remotely by answering legal questions or managing databases.

The source of financial donations is not always clear. One Pakistani says that the $644,000 for 29 ambulances he brought to Gaza from Germany were financed by "mainly individuals" and also partly by aid organizations.

Often, sums come from non-governmental organizations abroad or through online donation campaigns. "I have a problem with holding cash that I don't know where its from, because it could get quite messy," says one volunteer.

Flynn moved on to London where he wants to raise $300,000 from donors to build a community centre in Cairo as the first point of contact for refugees from Gaza.

Help is not available from the Palestinian Authority (PA), which has limited power in the West Bank. "We have no funds due to the Israeli siege imposed on us," says Ambassador Al-Louh. "We have depended 100% on charitable institutions and societies in offering financial assistance."

These days, he is trying to obtain temporary residence permits for Palestinians from the Egyptian government so that they can work legally and send their children to school, at least for the duration of the war.

In eastern Cairo, volunteers have turned a few empty flats into a clothing store, pulling jeans out of cardboard boxes, sorting trainers for children and hanging blouses on clothes racks. "Welcome to the Pali Boutique," reads a printed notice on the wall, with the flags of Egypt and Palestine underneath.

"We're just totally overwhelmed by the volume of people," says volunteer Jennifer Mina. To get clothes or milk powder here, you have to sign up on a list. Currently you have to wait a month or longer.

Some 90% of the volunteers are Palestinians, says Mina, who comes from the US and has lived in Egypt for a long time. "Most of the work is done by themselves," she says of the Palestinians of Cairo.

A Palestinian woman checks a stand at the Pali Boutique. Pali Boutique, founded by the voluntary group Network for Palestine, is a storage area providing essential clothing, household goods, toys, hygiene products and more to Palestinian families who fled the Gaza war to Cairo. Gehd Hamdy/dpa

Palestinians check the stands at the Pali Boutique, founded by the voluntary group Network for Palestine. It is a storage area providing essential clothing, household goods, toys, hygiene products and more to Palestinian families who fled the Gaza war to Cairo. Gehd Hamdy/dpa

A volunteer seals a donations box at the Pali Boutique. Pali Boutique, founded by the voluntary group Network for Palestine, is a storage area providing essential clothing, household goods, toys, hygiene products and more to Palestinian families who fled the Gaza war to Cairo. Gehd Hamdy/dpa
(COLORADO SPRINGS)  Paninos, the beloved Italian eatery that began its legacy in 1974 with the Frasca family in Colorado Springs, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this weekend.

Bobby Lashwood, Co-Owner of P74: The Downtown Paninos told FOX21 News on Thursday, June 19, that its 50th-anniversary celebrations are scheduled for Saturday, June 22 beginning at 11 a.m. at the Tejon location, only. Until 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, the downtown location will be offering 50% off the top 10 best-selling menu items as a thank you to the community for its support. There will also be cocktail specials and possibly discounts on pizza.

FOX21 also reached out to Patrick McArdle, the General Manager of the westside location on 8th Street, who said that its celebration plans are still in the works but that a date and details would be announced soon.

Back in December of 2023 and as part of FOX21s We Are Colorado Springs week, Reporter Maggy Wolanske did a special on the Frasca family and the legacy of Paninos, which can be viewed in the video player above.

P74: The Downtown Paninos is located at 604 North Tejon Street, and the westside restaurant is located at 1721 South 8th Street. There is also another location in Colorado, located in Fort Collins.

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.
Anti-abortion and abortion rights activists protest during the 50th annual March for Life rally in front of the U.S. Supreme Court on January 20, 2023, in Washington, D.C.

the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to take the case, making Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. U.S. Food and Drug Administration the high Anti-abortion and abortion rights activists protest during the 50th annual March for Life rally in front of the U.S. Supreme Court on January 20, 2023, in Washington, D.C. (Getty Images)

In the two years since Roe v. Wade was overturned in June 2022, the number of patients forced to seek out-of-state abortion services has doubled. Fourteen states have total abortion bans, three more restrict abortions after six weeks  before most people know they are pregnant  and two others limit them after the first trimester.

One population often overlooked in reproductive rights conversations are people under community supervision, also known as probation and parole, which often prohibits travel across state lines without government approval. A new briefing by the public policy think tank Prison Policy Initiative puts these challenges into context for a country without Roe.

This report was originally published by The 19th. The Illuminator is a founding member of The 19th News Network.

About 800,000 U.S. women are under probation or parole, according to PPIs analysis. Probation happens when a convicted person serves their time outside of a jail or prison but is still under legal surveillance and restrictions. Parole is a similar concept, but is given to a person who has served time in prison and is released early under the condition that they follow a strict set of rules.

These conditions can include hefty fees, curfews, job requirements, travel restrictions and meetings with a probation or parole officer. Every state and Washington, D.C. restricts the movement of people under community supervision. Violating these restrictions can lead to prison time.

Fifty-three percent of women on probation and parole live in the 21 states that have abortion restrictions set earlier than the point of fetal viability, which is usually around 22 to 25 weeks. As a result, only 1 in 6 women on probation or parole can access abortion services at any stage of their pregnancy without needing permission to cross state lines, according to the PPI briefing.

Its exponentially more difficult, I would say, for people on community supervision because they have to literally go and ask permission from their probation parole officers, or from the court, to cross state lines, said Wendy Sawyer, research director at the Prison Policy Initiative. You have to give really detailed information about what your travel plan is, so that means that youre leaving their ability to access abortion care to people who shouldnt have any say in the decision.

The PPI briefing does not go into detail on trans or nonbinary people who may become pregnant. Sources of data like the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics often do not specifically mention LGBTQ+ people.

Three states with some of the toughest abortion bans in the country have a large share of women under community supervision. Together Texas, Florida and Georgia hold 227,801 women on probation or parole, or nearly thirty percent of the women under community supervision nationwide, according to PPIs breakdown.

Texas first outlawed abortions after six weeks of pregnancy with S.B. 8 in 2021. The next year after Roe was overturned, the state banned the procedure almost completely except to save the life of a pregnant person. Last year the Georgia Supreme Court upheld a six-week abortion ban, and Floridas six-week ban took effect in May. Southern states represent a majority of those with either total abortion bans or six-week bans, leaving people in the south with few options for care.

It is devastating. It is no surprise at all to me that the same states that have consistently restricted health care for people are the same states that make up the largest number of community surveillance of women in their state. That is not a coincidence, said Kylee Sunderlin, the legal services director for If/When/How: Lawyering for Reproductive Justice, a reproductive health legal advice and aid organization that operates the Repro Legal Helpline.

Sunderlin oversees the helpline and has taken calls from people on parole or probation.

Every day when Im on the helpline, my primary goal for people is, How can I help reduce harm? How can I share information so that you can feel best equipped to make the decision that is right for you and your family? Sunderlin said. I feel inept in these particular scenarios, because there is no harm reduction, there is no risk mitigation. I feel completely helpless.

Access to abortion medication is also inconsistent. Last week, the Supreme Court unanimously dismissed a case that would have limited access to the abortion pill. Some health care providers mail pills to people in states with bans, but this is not widely available to everyone who might want it.

The demographics of women disproportionately affected by abortion restrictions around the country  low income women and women of color, particularly Black women  are also those more affected by incarceration and criminalization. Another PPI report based on 2019 data found that 70 percent of women on probation and 65 percent of women on parole make incomes below $20,000 annually.

For those in states with near-total bans, there is little they can do to officially request travel for an abortion. In Texas, for example, a number of cities and counties have passed bans to restrict people from traveling outside the state for the procedure. Even in states that allow abortions up to a certain point, pregnant people under community supervision come up against delays for travel approval.

Depending on their location, people on parole or probation have to submit a travel request from 10 days to four weeks in advance of travel. One travel request form in Nebraska, which has a 12-week ban, asks the departure and return date, method of travel, purpose of the trip and the address of their accommodations. Additionally, dozens of states that allow abortion have mandatory waiting periods and require counseling before receiving one. This means that pregnant people either have to stay overnight in the area where their abortion will be performed, or return a second time or third time.

These restrictions can put people on probation or parole in tricky situations: Their travel requests could be denied, or they could risk violating the parameters of their travel approval.

Black bodies are definitely being surveilled, and theyre under attack, and it is the history and foundation which this country is built on, said Kamyon Conner, executive director of Texas Equal Access Fund. At TEA Fund, we say abortion bans are racist for a reason, because they know which communities and people they are targeting, and its purposeful. Its another way to control what we do with our bodies, where we move with our bodies, how they can keep track of our bodies.

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HONG KONG, June 19 (Xinhua) -- More than 70 new primary and secondary school principals of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) have attended a lecture on national security law.

The lecture and a series of relevant events, including an exhibition on China's diplomacy and a briefing on signature events including the annual Hong Kong Cup Diplomatic Knowledge Contest, were organized by the Commissioner's Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR.

Addressing the occasion, Commissioner Cui Jianchun elaborated on the current international situation and China's diplomacy and encouraged the principals to pilot the growth of their students and cultivate in them a deeper understanding of and love for country and Hong Kong.

Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Christine Choi Yuk-lin said that principals play a crucial role as the navigators of education, hoping that the school principals can apply systematic thinking and play a leading role in educating and guiding the young generation to deeply understand the development trend of the country and the world, the "one country, two systems" and Hong Kong's unique advantages, and enhance national pride and sense of national identity. 
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5)  FOX 5 thanks its partners for their support of the Armed Services YMCA as part of this years Big Bay Boom.

FOX 5 will have cameras around San Diego Bay give you the best view of the July 4th fireworks show. Coverage will start at 8 p.m. on FOX 5 and on FOX5SanDiego.com.

San Diego Strike Force

Los Angeles Rams

San Diego Legion

Happy 4th, San Diego!

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.
A woman is demanding answers from American Airlines after she says she managed to track down her missing luggage to a Hollywood homeless encampment.

Aunny Grace said her travel nightmare began at Dallas Airport on May 29 when her flight was delayed.

American Airlines left thousands of people stranded in the airport overnight for days, actually, said Grace.

(NBC4/Supplied)

She then spent the night in Dallas Airport as she waited to board her flight home to Hollywood Burbank Airport, and was told that her luggage would be delayed.

However, she later discovered her luggage at a homeless encampment near the corner of Santa Monica Boulevard and Western Avenue, she said.

Grace was able to track her luggage down thanks to an Apple AirTag inside her suitcase, but now she wants to know how it ended up there.

Aunny Grace, who lost her luggage in Hollywood (NBC4)

It went to Denver, then Denver back to Dallas, and then eventually, five days later, it made its way back to Burbank, Grace told NBC4, adding that after five days, she was delivered the wrong suitcase.

She said she was initially told that her luggage was fine and that it had been delivered to her home in Hollywood, But her AirTag told a different story.

Grace said at the airport, some of the bags are out in the open, making it easy for anyone to grab them (NBC4)

When the carrier called me, he said he was at my house. I looked and I saw my AirTag twinkling down Western Avenue very slowly, like no direction, really, Grace said. I knew intuitively something was wrong. Something was way off.

Sometime between midnight and 7 a.m., my bag wound up in Homeless Town Hollywood, she added.

Grace then decided to travel to the location of her AirTag where she found her luggage. But her nightmare wasnt over yet.

When she found her suitcase, she discovered it had been opened and that everything had been taken out.

Graces missing luggage (NBC4)

Im just crying, grabbing my stuff, she said. I had jewelry, medicine, bags I bought from Bali in Peru. My toiletry bag was flipped upside down, completely empty. Makeup bag, empty. This homeless man just ransacked through my stuff.

Grace was able to retrieve her belongings after she and a friend paid the homeless man, she told NBC4. She has now filed a police report, and has also contacted American Airlines, who she said told her they would reimburse up to $1,700 for her items, well below what she says was worth more than $6,300.

As she was searching for her items, she noticed other bags as well.

I saw suitcases with American Airline tags on them, said Grace.

She added that the homeless man told her he had bought her suitcase down the street.

I want to know: How did my suitcase go from the Burbank Airport to a homeless encampment in Hollywood on a corner of Western and Sunset? said Grace.

She went on to explain that at the airport, some of the bags are out in the open, making it easy for anyone to grab them.

The bags that are delayed, they remove them from the carousel line, and they bring them to the office. So you have the bags in the office, and then you have the rest of them are just outside, she told NBC4.

Following the incident, American Airlines released a statement on Tuesday which read: We strive to ensure that our customers checked luggage and other items arrive at their destinations on schedule and in their original condition. We are investigating what occurred here and, in the meantime, a member of our team is in contact with the customer to apologize and resolve the issue, KABC reported.

But Grace says she is still not satisfied with the airlines response.

Its going to keep happening until someone takes responsibility. This has to be placed on the responsibility of the airline, said Grace.

The Independent has contacted American Airlines for comment.
'This Is So Pathetic': Lindsey Graham Torched For Reality-Defying Trump Defense

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) was sharply criticized on social media Tuesday after he twisted reality on Fox News.

The next time you hear the word felon in this election, I think the felon in this election is Joe Biden, the devoted Donald Trump ally told Fox News Jesse Watters.

What hes doing to the country is criminal. His border policies are allowing people to be raped and murdered on the street.

Actually, the felon in this election is Trump, the presumptive GOP presidential nominee, who was found guilty by a Manhattan jury last month on all counts in his historic hush money trial. He was convicted of falsifying business records to cover up an alleged sex scandal to protect his 2016 presidential bid.

He is also the subject of three other criminal cases, two tied to his coup attempt, and a third over his handling of classified documents and alleged efforts to obstruct the subsequent investigation.

Graham: Next time, you hear the word felon in this election, I think the felon in this election is Joe Biden. What he's doing to the country is criminal. pic.twitter.com/RXv6ZnWwWP  Acyn (@Acyn) June 19, 2024

Graham went on to assert that what happened to Trump in New York was a bunch of BS and a political hit job, echoing his statement after the May 30 verdict.

This is so pathetic, the Republican Voters Against Trump group posted on X (formerly Twitter), sharing a clip of Grahams felon assertion.

Former Rep. Joe Walsh (R-Ill.) said it was sad.

Others called him spineless and cowardly, noting that prior to Trumps presidency, Graham used to have very nice things to say about Biden.

See some of the reactions below.

A reminder that, not all that long ago, @LindseyGrahamSC didn't feel compelled to kneel before a lifelong huckster, and spoke honestly and openly about how kind, decent people know @joebiden to be. Alas, the MAGA bodysnatchers showed up. As they do to the spineless among us. https://t.co/IEwoVIQiPcpic.twitter.com/zZNt6GssiC  Jeff Pearlman (@jeffpearlman) June 19, 2024

I won't do that, Lindsey.

That's not how it works.

but the next time i hear "coward," "sycophant," "compromised," "sad" or "broken," I will think of you. https://t.co/IdrxSYYqbW  Marmel is Following Back More (@Marmel) June 19, 2024

America has witnessed in real time the moral disintegration of Lindsey Graham into a disgracefully dishonest, spineless Trump sycophant

Somewhere John McCain is shaking his head in sadness & disbelief, asking in a plaintive pained voice "My God, Lindsey,

what happened to you?" https://t.co/rF0oqykEA8  Charles Campisi (@1813Doncarlo) June 19, 2024

Im old enough to remember when Lindsey Graham said Joe Biden is the finest man hes ever met https://t.co/YDUAiT0fMG  Walt Bishop (@WalterJBishop) June 19, 2024

No, Lindsey, the ACTUAL felon is the guy convicted on 34 counts.



He also incited an insurrection to try to stay in power, was impeached twice, and still faces 54 felony charges, including stealing top secret documents that put our national security at risk. https://t.co/7qxvq61PfA  D Villella  (@dvillella) June 19, 2024

Fact check:



Biden not a felon

Trump felon https://t.co/lgKmdA4EK6  @matunos@mastodon.social  (@matunos) June 19, 2024

Related...
Patients in Wales more likely to face year-long NHS wait than England, data show

A Tory spokesperson said: 'The evidence is clear for everyone to see  where Labour are in charge of the NHS, patients are worse off' - SIMON R B BROWN/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

Patients in Labour-run Wales are nine times as likely as those in England to face waits of at least a year for NHS hospital care, official figures show.

The Office for National Statistics data comparing UK nations show a far higher proportion of the public in Wales facing the longest waits.

Overall, 4.5 per cent of people in Wales were on NHS hospital waiting lists for more than 12 months, compared with 0.5 per cent of those in England, the data for March of this year shows.

The figures also show that people in Wales are more likely to be on an NHS waiting list overall.

In total, 21.6 per cent of people in Wales are waiting, according to the data, compared with 12.9 per cent of those in England.

Independent experts welcomed the analysis, published for the first time, in helping to make accurate comparisons between the two nations.

It follows fierce rows between the Conservatives and Welsh Labour about the state of the NHS in Wales. Health policy is devolved to the Welsh government where Welsh Labour has been in charge since 1999.

Rishi Sunak has faced criticism for the failure to bring down waiting times in England but the Tories said the new data showed the risks if England goes the same way as Wales if Sir Keir Starmer wins the election.

A Conservative Party spokesman said: In Labour-run Wales, overall waiting records have hit an all-time record high, and patients are nine times as likely as those in England to be waiting more than a year for treatment. The evidence is clear for everyone to see  where Labour are in charge of the NHS, patients are worse off.

In contrast, the Conservatives bold action has virtually eliminated the longest waits of over 18 months and overall waiting lists are falling at the fastest rate in over a decade outside of the pandemic.

Only Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives will stick with the clear plan to continue cutting waiting lists and secure the future of the NHS.

Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has previously praised the Welsh government when it was led by Mark Drakeford, describing it as a blueprint for what Labour can do across the UK.

Labour has been approached for comment.

Health policy has been devolved to the Welsh government where Welsh Labour has been in charge since 1999 - KEITH MORRIS /ALAMY STOCK PHOTO

In total, the list stood at 7.6 million patiens in April, up from 7.25 million when he made the pledge, despite some falls in recent months. As some people are on the lists for multiple conditions, the latest figure equates to 6.3 million patients, according to NHS statistics.

Meanwhile, waits in Wales have reached a record high with a list of 768,899 in March, up from 734,116 in January 2023.

Because some patients are on more than one waiting list for different conditions, the total number of actual patients reached 599,100 in March, up from 575,600 in January 2023, according to data from Digital Health and Care Wales.

However, in England only consultant-led pathways are reported, whereas in Wales some non-consultant-led pathways  such as a referral from a GP to physio  are included, making comparisons difficult until now.

The ONS survey also questioned people from England, Wales and Scotland on whether they were waiting for a hospital appointment, test or to start receiving medical treatment through the NHS, as well as whether they were on a hospital waiting list.

In total, 25 per cent of those in England were waiting for a hospital test or appointment, compared with 29 per cent in Wales, while the figure was 22 per cent in Scotland

Mark Dayan, the policy analyst and head of public affairs at the Nuffield Trust, said the latest figures from the ONS were helpful in allowing more accurate comparisons of waiting lists across the different UK countries.

He said: It confirms that people in Wales are more likely to be waiting for care. The gap is much larger for the longest waits of over a year, but this isnt necessarily a fair indication of the different systems performance. England just seems to have focused more on the longest waits, which is not necessarily the best decision if Wales and Scotland have been prioritising based on clinical need instead.

He said it was not clear why Wales seemed to deliver planned care more slowly overall, but suggested that longer hospital stays in Wales might be a factor, slowing the turnover of patients.

Mr Dayan said: Although Wales spends more money per person than England, it has an older population facing more deprivation, so need is higher in two different ways at once.

It also has fewer consultant doctors per person than England, which may be important in planned hospital care. While an exact comparison is difficult, Welsh patients spend longer on average in hospital than English ones, and that means fewer can be treated using the same number of beds and staff. This is an obvious focus for improving efficiency, as long as that can be done safely.

Wes Streeting, the shadow health secretary, has said he wants to see the NHS in England buy private beds from care homes, in order to unblock the health and care system, and get patients out of hospital sooner.

According to NHS England figures, an average of 12,360 hospital beds per day last month were occupied by people ready to be discharged.

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Patriot missiles intended for Switzerland to go to Ukraine, Swiss outlet reports

U.S.-made missiles for the Patriot air defense system manufactured for Switzerland are to be delivered to Ukraine despite contractual obligations, the Swiss outlet Blick reported on June 19, citing undisclosed sources.

According to Blick, Bern has an order totaling $340 million with Washington for the PAC-3 variant of the missile.

Sources told the outlet that the U.S. has decided to delay delivery to Switzerland and send them instead to Ukraine, which is in dire need of the weapons to protect against Russian aerial attacks.

The PAC-3 missile is the most advanced used by the Patriot air defense system and is effective against ballistic missiles. Each missile costs $4.1 million.

They are in high demand as European countries seek to bolster their own air defenses amid rising tensions with Russia.

A German-led initiative is seeking to get more Patriot missiles to Ukraine, with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius on June 11 announcing 68 were on their way to Kyiv.

The decision comes as Ukraine faces increased Russian attacks on its population centers and infrastructure.

Pistorius emphasized the urgency of strengthening Ukraine's air defenses, referencing his recent visit to Odesa, where he observed the devastating effects of Russian missile strikes. He also unveiled an aid package valued at 500 million euros ($542 million).

Berlin launched the initiative in April amid Kyiv's increasingly dire need for air defenses, facing heavy Russian aerial attacks against population centers and the energy grid.

A number of countries have already backed the initiative since then, including Belgium, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, and others.

On June 13, the U.S. denied reports that the U.S. is planning to deliver another Patriot battery to Ukraine.

Read also: Zelensky inspects Patriot battery pledged to Ukraine during Germany visit

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Paying reparations for slavery is possible  based on a study of federal compensation to farmers, fishermen, coal miners, radiation victims and 70 other groups

As Americans celebrate Juneteenth, legislation for a commission to study reparations for harms resulting from the enslavement of nearly 4 million people has languished in Congress for more than 30 years.

Though America has yet to begin compensating Black Americans for past and ongoing racial harms, our new research published in the Russell Sage Foundation Journal in June 2024, refutes one of the key arguments against making reparation payments  that they would be too difficult and expensive for the federal government to administer.

We discovered hundreds of cases and analyzed more than 70 programs in which the federal government pays what we term reparatory compensation to millions of Americans.

The long history of US compensation

Since the 1930s, the U.S. government has made payments for many types of nonracial harms, including personal injury, illness, disease, financial loss, natural disasters, market failures and social injustices.

In 1988, for example, the U.S. government paid reparations to Japanese Americans  and in some cases, their descendants  who were forced into internment camps during World War II.

With the authorization of the government, the U.S. military rounded up and incarcerated Japanese Americans shortly after Japans attack on Pearl Harbor. History/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

In another example, starting in the 1990s, Congress passed a series of laws to compensate people in 12 western states and the Marshall Islands who were exposed to dangerous levels of radiation from the governments nuclear testing program that occurred in the 1940s and 1950s. Since 1990, these programs have compensated some 135,000 victims and paid out US$28 billion to these victims and to some of their heirs.

America has paid compensation to coal miners who have contracted lung diseases, farmers who have endured crop failures and fishermen facing depleted fish stocks.

The federal government has also paid compensation to victims of terrorism, wrongful convictions and natural disasters.

It also has paid partial restitution to thousands of descendants of Native American tribes, whose tribal land earnings were stolen or mismanaged dating back to the 1880s.

Indeed, the federal government has long attempted to compensate individuals  and in certain cases entire communities  through a combination of restitution, financial benefits and rehabilitation.

These programs cost billions of dollars annually and are funded in a variety of ways, including specific excise taxes, the use of government trust funds and subsidized insurance policies.

We have determined that the diversity, scale and complexity of federal programs and beneficiaries show that reparations are administratively feasible. While only a few of these programs address racial injustice, they all demonstrate the governments capacity to administer large-scale programs of compensation for those directly and indirectly harmed.

The ongoing harms to Black Americans

The harms of slavery did not end on June 19, 1865, the day known as Juneteenth when enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom  well after the Emancipation Proclamation enacted by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863.

The harms continued during the Jim Crow era of legalized segregation and can be seen in todays disparate outcomes in health, wealth, housing, employment and education.

An advertisement details the auction sale of 25 enslaved Black people at Ryans Mart in Charleston, S.C., on Sept. 25, 1852. Kean Collection/Archive Photos via Getty Images

Among the most uncompensated victims of racial harm are Black veterans.

After the Civil War, the federal government made a promise to all formerly enslaved people and, in particular, Black veterans: a military pension and reparations in the form of 40 acres and a mule.

The government then reneged on its promise of land, mules or any other restitution  even as it distributed millions of acres of western land to mostly white settlers for free, under the Homestead Act.

In this Sept. 5, 1944, photograph, Cpl. Charles H. Johnson of the 783rd Military Police Battalion waves on a Red Ball Express convoy near Alenon, France. National Archives

Black men who fought in World War II and the Korean War suffered the same treatment. The 1944 GI Bill enabled millions of white veterans  including many working-class European immigrants  to buy homes and secure qualifications that led to higher-paying professional and trade jobs.

But nearly all Black veterans were denied those benefits.

Taken all together, the harms endured by Black people over several generations have produced a $14 trillion wealth gap between Black and white Americans.

Righting the wrongs of the past

Although a majority of Americans oppose paying reparations for the wrongs of slavery, a 2021 University of Massachusetts/Amherst poll show that 57% of all voters age 18 to 29, and 64% of Democrats, support reparations to the descendants of enslaved men and women.

Moreover, the poll found, a significant percent of those who are opposed to reparations say its because they lack confidence in the governments ability to design a fair program.

Our research into existing compensation proves that the government has the skill and experience to do this.

The question in our view is whether the nation has the will to examine the long-enduring harms from slavery  and to begin to repair those wrongs.

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: Linda J. Bilmes, Harvard Kennedy School and Cornell William Brooks, Harvard Kennedy School

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Linda J. Bilmes is affiliated with Harvard University.

Cornell William Brooks does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
(Bloomberg) -- Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi accused China of trying to erase Tibetan culture following her high-profile meeting with the Dalai Lama at his home in northern India Wednesday, a visit condemned by Beijing.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Pelosi was joined on the trip to Dharamshala by a bipartisan delegation led by Michael McCaul, the Republican chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The group also met with officials from Tibets government in exile.

Pelosi said a bill recently passed in Congress strengthening US support to Tibet sends a strong message to China.

China is trying to erase the culture, reduce the use of the language, Pelosi said during a public ceremony Wednesday in Dharamshala. They are trying something that we cannot let them get away with.

This bill is a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet, Pelosi said.

Beijing had warned the US lawmakers against the meeting, urging the US in remarks on Tuesday to see clearly the anti-China separatism nature of the Dalai Lama and his followers.

China considers the Dalai Lama a separatist for his commitment to limited autonomy for the region. Pelosi has been a longtime critic of Chinese policy on Tibet, and visited the Tibetan city of Lhasa in 2015.

China annexed Tibet in the 1950s, with the Dalai Lama and other monks fleeing to India nine years later, where they live as refugees and have set up a government in exile in Dharamshala.

Officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile earlier said the US visit and legislation will put pressure on China to engage with them as they seek autonomy for the region.

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(Getty Images)

Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry on Tuesday filed a lawsuit against Pittsburgh-based Leda Health Corp. over the early evidence kits the company markets to sexual assault victims. The kits are intended to allow assault survivors to collect DNA evidence of their assault, rather than go to a hospital or medical facility where such procedures are typically performed.

These kits essentially offer false promises to consumers by misleading them to think evidence collected privately at home can result in a criminal conviction  that is yet to have happened anywhere with the use of these kits, Henry said in a news release.

Henrys office also issued a cease-and-desist order to the company to stop advertising, marketing and selling its kits.

Leda Health and its CEO Madison Campbell had filed a lawsuit Monday against Henry and New York Attorney General Letitia James because they threatened to shut down a company that provides resources to sexual assault survivors because it disagrees with the companys protected speech.

Ledas suit seeks a preliminary injunction, and argues the company never claimed that its resources are better or more effective than those offered by the government, but rather that some survivors of sexual assault may require more (and different) resources than what governments currently offer them.

James has previously sent cease-and-desist letters to Leda and another company selling at-home rape kits in New York.

Leda Health, which formerly marketed the kits as MeToo kits, says on its website that its early evidence kit was designed by survivors with the help of nurses, advocates, and lawyers to enable survivors to collect and store DNA, when accessing a traditional sexual assault forensic exam is not possible or against the survivors wishes.

Campbell, a former Miss Pittsburgh pageant winner, told WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh earlier this year that she started the company after she was raped as a college student, and did not want anyone to touch her after the assault to collect evidence.

But Henry said the kits dont meet evidence collection standards set by the Pennsylvania legislature and the states Sexual Assault Testing and Evidence Collection Act. On Ledas website, Henrys lawsuit adds, the company has a disclaimer that reads Leda cannot guarantee that information collected using our kit will be admissible in a court of law and is not an attorney able to provide survivors with legal advice.

Alex Little, an attorney for Leda and Campbell, told the Capital-Star Tuesday that it tells victims what is factually true, that it cant guarantee any evidence is going to be admissible, but that victims can increase their chances by following the advice in the kit.

The reality is a vast majority of victims of sexual assault do not get a rape kit done, and for choices that range from just fear about the procedure or just desire to maintain control over their bodily autonomy, and when they do that, they sacrifice certain things, Little said. And so by allowing those victims access to kits, that may allow them to collect evidence in ways they did not realize they could to give them a little more control over evidence that is collected. Leda wants to give them options.

Little added that the matter was a First Amendment issue because the idea that theres one specific way that a victim should respond to sexual assault and that the state can mandate they be told how to respond to sexual assault is not what the First Amendment permits. In fact, it prohibits the state from threatening to shut down a company like they did with Leda for not adhering to the states preferred views about how victims should respond to sexual assault.

The Pennsylvania Sexual Assault Testing and Evidence Collection Act requires that assault survivors receive evidence collection relating to their assault at no cost to the survivors, Henrys suit notes.

In addition, Ledas marketing of the kits is problematic and in violation of Pennsylvanias consumer protection law, Henry added, because they mislead consumers into thinking collecting a sample on their could supplant steps taken at a medical/forensics facility that is qualified in proper evidence collection and connected to a national database for criminal offenders (CODIS).

The Pennsylvania Coalition to Advance Respect (PCAR), formerly known as the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape, supports Henrys actions to ban Ledas early evidence kits.

The use of an at-home kit provides a sexual assault survivor with false hope and misleads them away from a pathway to safety and justice, PCAR public policy director Gabriella Romeo said in a statement. Its imperative sexual assault survivors seek trained medical care at a hospital and services from their local rape crisis center. These individuals are trained to support survivors while utilizing trauma-informed proven methods of healing.

Henry, a former district attorney, said she has seen the trauma suffered by survivors of sexual assault.

They deserve advocates offering the whole truth in available options, including avenues for pursuing justice against their assailant, she said.

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YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM)  A Pennsylvania-based winery that has been operating for about 20 years is reopening later this week after being forced to close earlier this month.

abc27 news reported in early June when Moon Dancers Vineyards & Winery Inc. was forced to temporarily close their doors as a result of a court order stemming from a legal dispute regarding the use of the winerys farm property on Klines Run Road.

This initial court order forced the long time winery to suspend operations following the close of business on Sunday, June 9. The winery shared Wednesday that this legal dispute was brought by a couple who owns a neighboring property.

Earlier Wednesday, Moon Dancers Vineyards & Winery Inc. shared that York County Court Judge Clyde Vedder issued a court order on Tuesday, June 18 which granted the winerys request to rescind the previous court order.

We are incredibly grateful for the ruling and the opportunity to continue to do what we love most in this world  making and serving delicious wines and ciders for our loyal friends and neighbors while the litigation continues, Jim Miller, owner of Moon Dancer Winery said.

As a result, the winery will reopen for business starting on Friday, June 21 while litigation continues.

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Currently, supporters of Moon Dancer Vineyards & Winery circulated an online petition to stop the closure of the winery. As of today, the petition garnered over 6,700 signatures.

For two decades, we have been honored to serve this community, and it broke our hearts to have to close our doors, Miller added. Today, we celebrate not just this second chance to reopen, but we also celebrate the thousands of friends and neighbors who have stood by us and supported us during this difficult time.

Moon Dancer Vineyards & Winery will reopen for business throughout the weekend, and will operate under the following schedule:

Friday, June 21: Open noon to 10 p.m.; live music 7 to 10 p.m. featuring 3 Below.

Saturday, June 22: Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; live music noon to 5 p.m. featuring Kerry White.

Sunday, June 23: Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; live music 2 to 5 p.m. featuring Less is MORE.

For additional details and schedule updates, you can click here to visit their website.

abc27 news will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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An injured Palestinian child is treated at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on June 19, 2024. Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

GAZA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- At least 10 Palestinian security personnel of merchant trucks were killed by the Israeli army in Rafah City in the south of the Gaza Strip, Palestinian security and medical sources said Wednesday.

Local sources and eyewitnesses told Xinhua that Israeli aircraft targeted a group of security personnel securing commercial goods in the east of Rafah.

Meanwhile, medical sources said that the bodies of the dead, as well as several others injured, were all transported to European Gaza Hospital.

The Israeli army has not yet commented on the incident.

Recently, Israeli authorities have allowed commercial goods from the West Bank to enter the southern war-torn besieged enclave, following prior coordination, according to Palestinian security sources.

This incident was the second in two days, as on Monday night, at least nine people were killed in an Israeli airstrike targeting security personnel for commercial goods.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October.

Israel launched a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and around 250 were taken hostage. 

An injured Palestinian child is seen at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on June 19, 2024. Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

An injured Palestinian child is treated at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on June 19, 2024. Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

An injured Palestinian child is seen at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on June 19, 2024. Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

An injured Palestinian child is seen at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on June 19, 2024. Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

An injured Palestinian child is seen at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on June 19, 2024. Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Injured Palestinian children are seen at the Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on June 19, 2024. Earlier on Wednesday, the Gaza-based health authorities said the death toll of Palestinians from the ongoing conflict has risen to 37,396 since last October. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)
A Denver Elections Division worker explains to Jaycin Robinson what he needs to do to register to vote and cast his ballot on June 18, 2024, at the Denver Detention Center. (Lindsey Toomer/Colorado Newsline)

Jaycin Robinson voted for the first time Tuesday morning.

The 19-year-old participated in Colorados primary elections. Only he didnt cast his ballot at a voting center, he voted at the Denver Detention Center.

The Denver Elections Division held in-person voting for people in custody at the jail Tuesday, registering them and providing information on candidates compiled by the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition. The Confined Voter Project in Denver started in 2016 with the help of the sheriffs office, the elections division, CCJRC and the League of Women Voters.

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I thought about doing it, but I never really thought it was that important until I actually got to understand what it really meant, Robinson said about voting. I was thinking I was gonna be out of the jail when I (voted for the first time), but everything happens for a reason.

Counties around the state will look to Denver as a model as they implement in-person voting ahead of the November general election under a new Colorado law, but Denver has helped people held in the citys jails vote in person for a few years. Before that, the city helped people in custody mail their ballots in.

Im always proud to be able to cast my ballot, and as we help folks that are in our custody to understand their responsibility as productive citizens, we hope that that pride that they built today in casting those ballots will carry on when they go back into the community, Denver Sheriff Elias Diggins said at a press conference Tuesday.

Staff with Denver Elections come into the jail to set up voting booths and help eligible voters in custody register and cast their ballots, and Diggins said the jails operations arent significantly impacted by the process. He said because most of the people held in jail have not yet had a trial or are serving misdemeanor sentences, they retain their right to vote.

Lyndreth Wall, a 58-year-old Ute Mountain Ute Tribe leader in custody, said hes proud that he still gets to exercise his right to vote. He said that while hes voted many times prior to being in jail, this was his first time hes voted while in custody.

Its very important that we have our right to vote, because it does make a difference, Wall said. That means the world to people that are incarcerated, because were still human beings.

Each person while in custody is issued an ID they use within the jail, which theyre able to bring with them as their form of identification for voting. The sheriff signs off, acknowledging that the voter lives in the jail at the time they voted. Maysa Sitar, Denvers voter accessibility administrator, said its similar to what voters in nursing homes do to meet ID requirements.

If someone in custody isnt a Denver resident, they can still get mailed a ballot from their home county. Otherwise, a ballot that includes only statewide candidates and issues is available for in-person voting in jails.

Denver Elections spokesperson Mikayla Ortega said its hard to tell exactly what percentage of the jail population is eligible to vote because of how transient stays in the jail can be. Over the last week, Denver has had an average of 1,726 people in custody. Since the start of the year, more than 10,000 people have been released from custody in Denver. The majority of people in jail are there simply because they cannot afford bail, Ortega added.

Senate Bill 24-72, which Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed into law at the end of May, requires county sheriffs to designate someone to help eligible voters in jails cast their ballots. The designee is responsible for informing confined individuals of their eligibility and coordinating with the county clerk to set up a temporary, in-person voting center at their local county jail. Voters in jail must also receive information on candidates and measures included on the ballot so they can know who and what theyre voting for.

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Person rescued after getting hand stuck in vending machine at American University

WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  Emeregency workers were at American University Tuesday after someone got a hand stuck in a vending machine on campus.

DC Fire and EMS posted about the incident on the X platform at 7:21 p.m.

Beat the heat: How to save at DMV water parks, pools

In the post, DC Fire and EMS said it responded to 4400 Massachusetts Ave. in Northwest where a person had gotten a hand stuck in a vending machine.

The post noted that crews were able to free the persons hand and said that crews were evaluating the person at the scene.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Person struck by vehicle on Route 3 in Chelmsford has died, state police say

Person struck by vehicle on Route 3 in Chelmsford has died, state police say

A person who was struck by a vehicle on Route 3 in Chelmsford on Tuesday night has died from their injuries, authorities said Wednesday.

Troopers responding to a report of a crash on the southbound side of the highway near the exit to Route 129 found a person in the road suffering from serious injuries, according to Massachusetts State Police.

The victim, whose name hasnt been released, was later pronounced dead.

Video from the scene showed an SUV with significant front-end damage and a sedan stopped at the scene.

The operator of one of those vehicles suffered minor injuries, state police noted.

No criminal charges have been announced in connection with the deadly crash.

Traffic was backed up for miles as police detoured motorists around the crash scene and onto Route 129.

The crash remains under investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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CLEVELAND (WJW)  The FOX 8 I-Team did some digging to find out more about the potential impact on Northeast Ohioans from a computer hack at Cleveland City Hall.

The mayors office still hasnt said if the hackers got their hands on personal information about you, or city workers.

City of Cleveland was hit with a ransomware attack more than a week ago.

Nobody is above the law: Cleveland mayor speaks about crash

Sherena Frazier-Miller is one those people wondering if Cleveland City Hall hackers got into personal records such as bank accounts, social security numbers, or more. We want answers. Im just concerned about whats going on with our information. Where is that information? Can you tell us something? Someone at the top needs to be accountable, she sad.

Cleveland officials said the investigation continues and have determined hackers did not get into computers for the airport, utilities, or the Department of Taxation.

The Mayors Office issued the strongest statement, so far, about the ransomware hackers.

That statement said in part, The City of Cleveland is a victim of a crimewe are not actively negotiating with the attackerswe have no intent of paying the ransom.

The Cleveland police union and other unions for city workers are keeping an eye on payroll, watching to see if the City Hall hacking affects paychecks.

City Hall has been closed to the public, but the Mayors Office said city hall will reopen to the public on Thursday at noon.

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.
The trans-Alaska pipeline is seen on Sept. 19 in Fairbanks. This portion of the pipeline, 450 miles south of Prudhoe Bay, has been transformed into a visitor pullout and is a tourist attraction. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon)

The trans-Alaska pipeline is seen on Sept. 19, 2022, in Fairbanks. This portion of the pipeline, 450 miles south of Prudhoe Bay, has been transformed into a visitor pullout with an Alaska map sculpture and other features. The current right-of-way authorization that allows the Trans Alaska Pipeline System to operate will expire in 2034. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon)

When Kay Brown was director of the Alaska Division of Oil and Gas in the 1980s, her job was to make sure the state got the maximum benefit from its abundant fossil fuel.

At the time, North Slope activity was on the rise and Alaska was on its way to supplying a quarter of the nations domestically produced oil.

Now the producing oil fields are mature, Alaska production is down to less than a quarter of its late-1980s peak and climate change impacts have become dramatic in the state and elsewhere in the far north.

And Brown, who went on to become a state legislator and leader of the state Democratic party, is among a group of environmentalists urging the federal and state governments to prepare for an eventual end to North Slope oil production and transit through the pipeline.

She is now Arctic policy director for Pacific Environment, one of six groups that on Wednesday submitted a petition to the Department of the Interior for an environmental study of ways to phase out Alaska oil production.

Ive done a 180 in my thinking about the value of oil and gas in the state of Alaska, Brown said in an interview. Clearly, weve had a good run and made a lot of money for a lot of people, including the public treasury, and provided a lot of public services with it.

However, with all the emerging information about fossil fuels role in climate change, she said, she is certain that oils position in the world economy will decline, and that Alaska should plan accordingly.

We need to think about other alternatives that will not wreck the planet and that will provide jobs and prosperity and lower costs  and lower energy costs, she said.

The petition that Pacific Environment and the other groups filed with the Department of the Interior targets the 2034 deadline for a renewal of the federal right-of-way permit that allows the Trans Alaska Pipeline System to operate.

Interiors Bureau of Land Management, as it analyzes TAPS, must also begin to plan for the necessary decommissioning of the pipeline and phasedown of the fossil fuel extraction the pipeline enables, the petition said.

The first right-of-way granted to Alyeska Pipeline Service Co., the consortium that operates the pipeline and its marine terminal, was issued in 1974 and had a 30-year duration  covering what was, at the time, the estimated lifespan of the system. That right-of-way was renewed for another 30 years in 2003.

While the current right-of-way does not expire for 12 years, the petitioners say the Department of the Interior should get to work right away.

Kay Brown, a former Alaska Division of Oil and Gas director and legislator, is seen at Anchorages Westchester Lagoon on Thursday. Brown is now among those urging Alaskans to start planning for a long-term future beyond oil production. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon)

The longer we ignore and put off the inevitable, the harder its going to get and the more painful it will be, said Cooper Freeman, Alaska director for the Center for Biological Diversity, one of six petitioning groups.

This time around, the petition says, the department should take a hard look at the way the pipeline systems operations contribute to global climate change, as well as the way that climate change, through impacts like permafrost thaw, has destabilized and created possible new operational hazards for TAPS.

Climate change impacts were not much considered when the right-of-way was renewed the last time.

The 2002 environmental impact statement that led to the 2003 renewal mentioned climate change only a few times, and only in the context of its impact to the pipeline system rather than the way the systems operation affects the global climate.

In a passage about the geologic processes, the environmental report suggested that any effects of climate change on the system would be manageable. The impacts may be further complicated by the current warming trend of the climate that may affect the TAPS. Because the TAPS has been in operation for more than 25 years, most of the current impacts have been observed and have become part of the existing environment, the document said. As for permafrost thaw, impacts to the pipelines vertical support members, or VSMs  the devices that hold the pipeline suspended above ground  were expected to vary, ranging from insignificant to credible, the document said. Considering the systems engineering, location, geology and the experience gained in the last 25 years of pipeline operations, it is concluded that the impact of the warming on the VSMs is of limited extent, the document said.

The six environmental groups petition, aside from seeking a more complete review of climate change, asks for reviews of other impacts and operational issues.

One is the obligation of the oil companies to remove the pipeline and its associated infrastructure once they are no longer needed, a duty called Dismantling, Removal and Restoration, or DR&R.

The petitioners want the next right-of-way to require an escrow account for DR&R obligations that go beyond existing promises that, they say, could be broken.

A common pattern and problem nationwide, Freeman said, is that these duties wind up falling on the taxpayers when oil fields are abandoned, after big companies sell out to smaller companies with fewer resources.

The question of financial wherewithal to handle DR&R obligations and other costs has become more prominent since 2020, when Texas-based Hilcorp Energy Corp., a smaller independent, acquired all of the North Slope assets formerly held by energy giant BP. The city of Valdez and other parties are seeking more access to financial information that Hilcorp, as a privately held company, is keeping confidential. Last month, the Alaska Supreme Court partially affirmed and partially reversed a lower court ruling, thus allowing Valdez to continue its legal attempts to obtain that financial information.

The idea of planning for an end to North Slope oil production, however, runs counter to prevailing sentiment among Alaskas oil industry and political leaders.

On social media, Gov. Mike Dunleavy blasted the petition.

Kirk Johnson, senior vice president for global operations at ConocoPhillips, speaks at the annual membership luncheon held in Anchorage on June 12 by the Resource Development Council for Alaska. Johnson described ConocoPhillips plans for continued investment in Alaska oil production for many years to come. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon)

These groups are anarchists and nuts. They are more interested in destroying Alaska and America than protecting the environment. Their only hope is that the judge is as crazy as they are. They want to tear down the Trans Alaska Pipeline, but are so disillusioned they cant see the glaring logical fallacies in their own argument, he said in a post Wednesday.

Rather than decrease, state experts are forecasting that North Slope oil production will increase in coming years as big fields like ConocoPhillips Willow project and Santos Pikka project come online. The Alaska Department of Revenues latest forecast, issued in March, projects North Slope production will rise from its current average of 467,600 barrels per day to over 640,000 barrels per day in 2033.

In a speech at the annual membership luncheon of the Resource Development Council for Alaska, a senior ConocoPhillips official described his company as bullish about new North Slope oil production.

ConocoPhillips would say that Alaska is a fantastic place to be, Kirk Johnson, senior vice president for global operations, told the audience at the Wednesday event.

The company is backing that optimism with investment dollars, Johnson said.

It has spent $10 billion in Alaska over the last 10 years, and such investments will continue, he said.

Our forward-looking expectation is that were going to spend another $10 billion, and thats outside of Willow, he said. That money will go to old but huge fields like Prudhoe Bay and Kuparuk, as well as to the various smaller and newer fields like the Greater Mooses Tooth Unit, Narwhal and Coyote, he said.

We continue to find new opportunities and new plays within our existing assets, and were leveraging, again, this infrastructure that weve built out over the last 40 years, he said.

As for Willow, which is expected to start shipping oil in 2029 and produce up to 180,000 barrels per day, ConocoPhillips expects its investment to be $7 billion to $7.5 billion, he said.

While there is an energy transition underway, with momentum toward renewables, the energy industry has been in transition for two centuries, and fossil fuels are not losing their position, Johnson said.

Oil and gas is going to have staying power within that transition, he said. And Alaska is uniquely positioned to be a player within the global energy landscape going forward.

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The petition to oust Wanda Halbert was dismissed. Here's what could happen next

A Shelby County Circuit Court judge granted Wanda Halbert's motion to dismiss the ouster petition brought against her Tuesday morning.

Hamilton County District Attorney General Coty Wamp said the cause for dismissal, which boiled down to who had standing to bring the petition, was the first of its kind in the state of Tennessee. Wamp doubled down on her findings during the investigation, saying her office discovered both willful neglect and straight incompetence.

"We have done a substantial amount of work. We believe that Miss Halbert has committed willful neglect in her duties as county clerk of Shelby County, on top of that, we believe she's entirely incompetent," Wamp said.

A spokesperson for the Shelby County District Attorney's office said DA Steve Mulroy and the Shelby County Attorney's office would be meeting Tuesday to discuss possible next steps.

What could happen next?

There are three people within Tennessee who could potentially pick up the case against Halbert. District Attorney for Hamilton County General Coty Wamp said per the ouster statute, the Tennessee Attorney General, the Shelby County District Attorney or the Shelby County Attorney's office are the only three that could pick up the case.

As for right now, Halbert will remain in office but if the AG, DA or County Attorney picks up the case the move to oust her from office could restart.

Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp speaks during the first court appearance for Halberts ouster proceedings at Shelby County Circuit Court in Memphis, Tenn., on Friday, May 31, 2024.

Why was the ouster petition dismissed?

The ouster statute for the state of Tennessee is extremely high, and Wamp has said that repeatedly throughout the investigation and subsequent petition.

According to the state statute, only individuals from local jurisdictions can institute ouster proceedings. Wamp was appointed as a pro-tem for the case, as Mulroy said there was a conflict of interest as he is also an elected official in Shelby County.

Wamp is the elected District Attorney for Hamilton County and therefore does not meet the statute's requirements, the Shelby County judge ruled.

"Ouster proceedings may be instituted by the attorney general, district attorney general, or county attorney, either on their own initiative or after a complaint has been made," according to the County Technical Assistance Services.

More Shelby County news: Shelby County Government fiscal year 2025 operating budget; What got done and what didn't

What did Wamp have to say?

Wamp reiterated that the issues within the Shelby County Clerk's office are fully due to neglect of her duties, and unless the issues are addressed the office will continue to be in dismay.

"I think that she's going to continue to challenge the County Commission. She doesn't think she has to answer to them. She doesn't think she has to do what the (Shelby) County Trustee asked her to do in order to balance a budget. She's arrogant, and I wish her the best," Wamp said.

While Wamp did give harsh criticism of Halbert, she did say that while conducting her interviews for the investigation, the commonality among witnesses was that Halbert was a "nice woman."

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: What next for Shelby County Clerk Wanda Halbert after ouster dismissed?
Pew Research Center has revised a recent study after advocates criticized the research institute for saying a majority of Black Americans believe racial conspiracy theories about U.S. institutions.

The June 10 report, originally titled Most Black Americans Believe Racial Conspiracy Theories About U.S. Institutions, found that a majority of Black Americans said they believe U.S. institutions were designed, and continue, to keep them from succeeding.

But backlash from organizations, including JustLeadershipUSA, condemned the title, citing that the concerns many Black Americans voiced in the survey were based on historical fact.

Men included in a syphilis study pose for a photo in Tuskegee, Ala., in this 1950s file photo released by the National Archives. Most Black Americans said in a survey that they experience racial discrimination regularly and that such experiences inform how they view major U.S. institutions, according to a new study from the Pew Research Center released June 10, 2024. The study seeks to highlight the countrys documented racist history against Black people as a possible explanation for why Black Americans believe major U.S. institutions are holding them back.

Why would the people at the Pew Research Center call the opinion of the vast majority of Black Americans  which is rooted in facts, history, and lived experience  a conspiracy theory, when it is actually a reality? said DeAnna Hoskins, JustLeadershipUSA president and CEO and founder of the JustUS Coordinating Council.

It is, in fact, deeply harmful and problematic to label these beliefs  based on Black Americans direct experience and knowledge of their own history  as conspiracy theories. It borders on gaslighting, and, regardless of the intent, the impact is potentially very damaging to the Black community, she added.

Pew has changed the title to Most Black Americans Believe U.S. Institutions Were Designed To Hold Black People Back and acknowledged the use of conspiracy theories was not the best word choice to describe the complex and mixed set of findings. They have removed all mentions of conspiracy theories from the study.

By using these words, our reporting distorted rather than clarified the point of the study, Pew states at the top of the study now.

The study found that most Black Americans surveyed said they believe the criminal justice, political and economic systems were designed to hold Black people back a great deal or fair amount.

Almost three-quarters  74 percent  of Black Americans said they believe the prison system was designed to hold Black people back a fair or great amount, while 70 percent said the same about courts and the judicial process. Additionally, 68 percent said the policing system was designed to hold Black people back a fair or great amount.

Black peoples voices are pretty resounding in a critique of where they think the country needs to go, Kiana Cox, senior researcher at Pew Research Center and co-author of the study, told The Hill. The data was clear that Black people dont think these institutions need minor changes, they think these institutions need to be completely rebuilt to ensure fairness. Theyre saying we dont believe that these changes can never happen, but heres what should happen.

Cox added that even among Black Americans who may not believe a certain idea, a majority had at least heard of it.

Most of us who are Black and grew up in the United States, some of these things we have heard in everyday conversations throughout our lives, Cox said. When I was a kid, I had heard some of these things about businesses like Tommy Hilfiger was a racist brand or the KKK owned Snapple.

Some of these theories are not new, but they cover more than just the things that are most recent and familiar, she added. I wanted to make sure that I was taking my cue from what researchers have found while also acknowledging that there are some things that are in the zeitgeist right now.

Many of the concerns Black Americans have about institutions are rooted in historical incidents.

For instance, the study found that 55 percent of Black Americans said they believe medical professionals experiment on Black patients without their knowledge or consent  a direct link to the history of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study in which hundreds of Black men were promised free health care and treatment for syphilis but never received it. The experiment lasted 40 years.

The study also found that a majority of Black Americans reported experiencing racial discrimination in their lives, either regularly or from time to time, and that these experiences make them feel like the system is set up for their failure.

Though Black Americans of both political parties indicated they were aware of most of the ideas the study presented, belief in the concepts differentiated based on party.

While 78 percent of Black Democrats said the prison system was designed to hold them back a great or fair amount, only 59 percent of Black Republicans agreed. Similarly, 74 percent of Black Democrats said the judicial system was designed to hold them back while only 55 percent of Black Republicans agreed; 72 percent of Black Democrats said the police system was designed to hold Black Americans back a fair or great amount, compared to only 54 percent of Black Republicans.

Meanwhile, 62 percent of Black Republicans said they believe the government is encouraging Black single motherhood to eliminate the need for Black men, while only 54 percent of Black Democrats said the same.

Gender divides were also apparent in the study.

Though 77 percent of Black women said Black Americans have to work more than everyone else to achieve success in the U.S., 74 percent of Black men said the same.

Black women were also more likely than Black men to say the health care system holds Black people back and that the political system holds Black people back.

If we just listen to what Black people have told us in these surveys, I think its very clear that institutions treat Black people unfairly, Cox said. They need to be significantly overhauled. There was hope for change after the movement responding to George Floyds murder, and Black people have seen that those changes have not occurred.

The study included a survey conducted Sept. 12-24, 2023, of 4,736 U.S. adults who identify as Black and non-Hispanic, multiracial Black and non-Hispanic, or Black and Hispanic, according to Pew. Additionally, the study included seven focus groups conducted May 23 to June 1, 2023, with Black adults of various ages, income levels, political affiliations, and geographic locations.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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By Mikhail Flores and Karen Lema

MANILA (Reuters) -Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte resigned on Wednesday from the cabinet of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and another key post, not a surprise move given that her alliance with Marcos had long been expected to collapse.

Marcos has accepted Duterte's resignation from the posts of education minister and vice chair of an anti-insurgency task force, Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said in a statement, adding that no reasons were given by her for stepping down.

Duterte, who will remain vice president, said in a press conference that her "resignation is not because of weakness but because of true concern for teachers and the youth."

Her resignation affirmed what political observers had predicted all along that the alliance between their families that brought Marcos and her into power in 2022 was bound to collapse because of their political and policy differences.

"It is the break we have all been waiting for," Jean Encinas-Franco, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines, said of the vice president's decision to step down from her cabinet post, suggesting that it would now give her more power to go against Marcos.

Duterte, daughter of former president Rodrigo Duterte, was tipped to win the presidency in the 2022 elections, based on independent opinion polls, but she ran alongside Marcos, allowing the son of the late authoritarian leader to tap the Duterte family's huge support base and seal a comeback for the disgraced Marcos dynasty.

But the cracks in the alliance were laid bare several months into Marcos' presidency after he reversed many of his predecessor Rodrigo Duterte's policies from the South China Sea to the war on drugs as well as initiated potential peace talks with communist rebels.

Marcos has also considered rejoining the International Criminal Court (ICC) which Duterte officially withdrew from in 2019 after the court's prosecutor then announced a preliminary examination into thousands of killings in Duterte's war on drugs.

In January, Rodrigo Duterte accused Marcos of using drugs, while his son, currently the mayor of Davao city, called on Marcos to resign, which Sara Duterte did not object to.

"This resignation is not off the cuff," said Aries Arugay, visiting senior fellow, ISEAS Yusof-Ishak Institute. "This has something to do with widening distance of their positions in policy and politics."

Arugay believed Sara Duterte's resignation will give her the political space to oppose Marcos, which could potentially polarise the country. "It is dynasty versus dynasty."

University of the Philippines' Franco also sees a possibility that Sara Duterte, who still enjoys high trust ratings, would contest the presidency in 2028, and endorse her set of candidates for the 2025 mid-term polls.

Right now, Sara Duterte's role as the vice president, who is elected separately from the president, is largely ceremonial without a cabinet position.

Marcos, on the other hand, is not eligible to run again for the top job as the constitution sets a single-six-year term limit for president.

The Philippines will hold mid-term elections in 2025 to choose half the Senate, elect congressmen, and local officials.

"The 2025 elections could be a referendum on which dynasty is stronger," said Arugay. "It will be an indication where the winds are blowing."

(Reporting by Mikhail Flores and Karen Lema; Additional reporting by Neil Jerome Morales; Editing by Ed Davies and Shinjini Ganguli)
Manila has accused China of injuring Filipino personnel and damaging Philippine vessels during a South China Sea collision earlier this week, as tensions simmer over territorial disputes in the resource-rich and strategically important waterway.

The Philippines and China have both blamed each other for the clash Monday near Second Thomas Shoal in the contested Spratly Islands, with a statement from the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday providing the first official confirmation from either side that injuries and damage were sustained. It follows multiple reports of injuries to Filipino sailors carried in local media and the Associated Press, citing sources, as well as from US officials.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs denounces the illegal and aggressive actions of Chinese authorities that resulted in personnel injury and vessel damage, the statement said, without specifying how many sailors were wounded or providing any details of their injuries.

At least eight Filipinos were injured in the incident  including one sailor who lost a thumb, the AP reported Tuesday, citing an official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

CNN has reached out to the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard for comment.

Chinese state-run tabloid Global Times published photos of the incident online on Wednesday, showing a Philippine rigid-hulled inflatable boat sandwiched between a large China Coast Guard vessel and at least three other Chinese boats.

When asked about the incident in a news conference on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said, law enforcement measures taken by the Chinese Coast Guard on the spot were professional and restrained, aimed at stopping the illegal fishing by Philippine ships, and no direct measures were taken against Philippine personnel.

The incident Monday is the latest in a string of confrontations between Chinese and Philippine ships that have raised the possibility of the South China Sea becoming a flashpoint for global conflict. It comes just weeks after Philippine President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. warned that the death of any Filipino citizen at the hands of another country in the waterway would be very close to an act of war.

Marcos has sought closer ties with the US, which has repeatedly stressed Washingtons ironclad commitment to a 1951 mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines that stipulates both sides would help defend each other if either were attacked by a third party.

China claims indisputable sovereignty over almost all of the South China Sea, and most of the islands and sandbars within it, including many features that are hundreds of miles from mainland China. Multiple governments, including Manila, hold competing claims.

In 2016, an international tribunal in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines in a landmark maritime dispute, which concluded that China has no legal basis to claim historic rights to the bulk of the South China Sea.

But Beijing has ignored the ruling. Instead it has increasingly pushed its maritime territorial claims, with China Coast Guard ships  reinforced by militia boats  involved in multiple clashes over the past year that have damaged Philippine ships and seen Filipino sailors injured by water cannon.

Known as Ayungin Shoal in the Philippines and Renai Jiao in China, Second Thomas Shoal is a submerged teardrop-shaped reef located about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the Philippine island of Palawan.

It lies in the Spratly Islands, a mostly uninhabited archipelago where oil and gas reserves have been found, and which is claimed by China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan.

The Philippines carried a resupply on Monday to its soldiers stationed on the BRP Sierra Madre, a rusting US-built Philippine Navy landing craft that was run aground deliberately in 1999, with a national flag hoisted on board, to assert Manilas territorial claims over Second Thomas Shoal.

The China Coast Guard on Monday said a Philippine supply ship ignored Chinas repeated solemn warnings and deliberately and dangerously approached a Chinese vessel in an unprofessional manner, resulting in a collision.

A supply ship and two rubber boats from the Philippines had attempted to illegally deliver supplies to the stranded warship, China Coast Guard spokesperson Gan Yu said.

Chinas Coast Guard also said it took measures including warnings and interceptions, boarding inspections and forced evictions against the Philippine vessels.

Multiple US officials criticized Chinas actions Monday and stressed Washingtons support for Manila.

The United States stands with its ally the Philippines and condemns the escalatory and irresponsible actions by China, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said.

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UNITED NATIONS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday emphasized the crucial role of healthcare in addressing conflict-related sexual violence, advocating for the protection of hospitals and healthcare facilities to support survivors.

On the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, the UN chief stated, "let us pledge to eliminate this scourge, stand in solidarity with survivors, and reaffirm our commitment to protecting hospitals and healthcare facilities during conflict."

The past year has brought distressing accounts of sexual violence in regions from Sudan to Haiti and Israel, underscoring the pervasive nature of this issue. "Despite widespread awareness and condemnation, this grotesque crime continues around the world," Guterres noted.

He highlighted the grave injustice that "perpetrators walk free while survivors spend their entire lives in recovery."

Focusing on healthcare, the top UN official emphasized the importance of safeguarding medical facilities: "Hospitals and other healthcare facilities should be beacons of safety and healing for all those injured in conflict, including the survivors of sexual violence." These principles are core to international humanitarian law.

However, Guterres expressed concern over the frequent attacks on medical facilities and staff, which "can severely limit access to medical care and psychosocial support for survivors."

He pointed out the specific needs of women and girls, who may require immediate sexual and reproductive healthcare due to pregnancy from rape, and the challenges faced by men and boys, who "may be at risk of increased isolation if they cannot access appropriate care."

Since 2015, the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict has been observed annually on June 19. The event marks the UN Security Council's adoption of a resolution recognizing sexual violence as a weapon of war and a threat to international peace and security. 
(Bloomberg) -- The Philippines called on China to respect its sovereignty after a Filipino Navy personnel was severely hurt in one of the most serious encounters between the two nations in the South China Sea.

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The DFA denounces the illegal and aggressive actions of Chinese authorities that resulted in personnel injury and vessel damage, the Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Wednesday.

The department said its been exerting efforts to rebuild a conducive environment for dialogue and consultation with China on their maritime dispute. We expect China to act sincerely and responsibly, and refrain from behavior that puts to risk the safety of personnel and vessels, it added.

The Philippine military said a personnel sustained severe injury on Monday after the China Coast Guards intentional high-speed ramming of a Philippine vessel on a routine mission to resupply troops in an outpost in the Second Thomas Shoal.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.s government has been asserting its territorial claims in the resource-rich waterway, often clashing with China which has expansive claims. Beijing, which has maintained that its actions in the contested waters are lawful, said on Monday that it took control measures including boarding and inspection and forced eviction against Philippine vessels in the latest encounter.

Philippine miilitary chief Romeo Brawner Jr. has said that the nations armed forces remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will work with international partners to secure peace and stability across the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region.

--With assistance from Andreo Calonzo.

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In this handout photo provided by Armed Forces of the Philippines, Chinese Coast Guard hold knives and machetes as they approach Philippine troops on a resupply mission in the Second Thomas Shoal at the disputed South China Sea on June 17, 2024. The Philippine military chief demanded Wednesday that China return several rifles and equipment seized by the Chinese coast guard in a disputed shoal and pay for damage in an assault he likened to an act of piracy in the South China Sea. (Armed Forces of the Philippines via AP)

MANILA, Philippines (AP)  The Philippine military chief demanded Wednesday that China return several rifles and equipment seized by the Chinese coast guard in a disputed shoal and pay for damages in an assault he likened to an act of piracy in the South China Sea.

Chinese personnel on board more than eight motorboats repeatedly rammed then boarded the two Philippine navy inflatable boats Monday to prevent Filipino navy personnel from transferring food and other supplies including firearms to a Philippine territorial outpost in Second Thomas Shoal, which is also claimed by Beijing, according to Philippine officials.

After a scuffle and repeated collisions, the Chinese seized the boats and damaged them with machetes, knives and hammers. They also seized eight M4 rifles, which were packed in cases, navigation equipment and other supplies and wounded a number of Filipino navy personnel, including one who lost his right thumb, two Philippine security officials told The Associated on Tuesday.

The two officials spoke on condition of anonymity because of a lack of authority to discuss the sensitive conflict publicly.

Video and photographs issued by the Philippine military Wednesday night show the chaotic faceoff at the shoal, with Chinese personnel onboard boats brandishing knives, axe and sticks while surrounding two Philippine navy supply boats beside Manila's ship outpost. Sirens blare constantly as both sides yell at each other and the Chinese smash the Philippine navy boat with a pole and grab what appears to be a bag with a stick.

Pictures show a damaged Philippine navy boat with its side floaters slashed and deflated and another boat with its windshields and navigational screens shattered. A man displays a damaged cellphone.

"We are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles and our equipment and were also demanding that they pay for the damage they caused, Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., head of the Philippine armed forces, said in a news conference in western Palawan province, where he pinned a medal on the wounded navy officer.

They boarded our boats illegally and seized our equipment, Brawner said. Theyre now like pirates with this kind of actions.

Armed with long knives and machetes, the Chinese coast guard personnel tried to beat the unarmed Filipinos, who resisted with their bare hands by parrying the blows and pushing back the Chinese, Brawner said. Our objective is also to prevent war.

Some of the Chinese pointed their knives at the Filipino navy personnel, he said.

China blamed the Philippines for the confrontation, saying the Filipino personnel trespassed into the shoal in defiance of its warnings.

This is the direct cause of the incident, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said in Beijing. The Chinese coast guard at the scene has taken professional law-enforcement measures with restraint aimed at stopping the illegal supply mission by the Philippine vessels and no direct measures were taken against the Philippine personnel.

The United States renewed a warning Tuesday that it is obligated to defend the Philippines, a treaty ally.

Second Thomas Shoal, part of the disputed Spratly Islands, has been occupied by a small Philippine navy contingent aboard a grounded warship that has been closely monitored by Chinas coast guard and navy in a yearslong territorial standoff. China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety.

There is fear that disputes in the South China Sea, long regarded as an Asian flashpoint, could escalate and pit the United States and China in a larger conflict. Aside from China and the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have conflicting territorial claims in the busy waterway.

Since last year, hostilities between China and the Philippines have escalated in the disputed waters, particularly in Second Thomas Shoal, which is less than 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers) from the Philippine coast and where the BRP Sierra Madre, now encrusted with rust, was deliberately grounded in 1999 to create a territorial outpost. The ship remains an actively commissioned military vessel, meaning an attack on it could be considered by the Philippines as an act of war.
FILE PHOTO: Chinese Coast Guard vessels fire water cannons towards a Philippine resupply vessel Unaizah May 4 on its way to a resupply mission at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea

By Mikhail Flores and Neil Jerome Morales

MANILA (Reuters) -The Philippines urged China on Wednesday to avoid actions that endanger sailors and vessels in the South China Sea, saying peace could not be achieved if China's words did not match its behaviour in the disputed waters.

The Philippine foreign ministry denounced as "illegal and aggressive" China's actions during a routine resupply mission on June 17, which the Philippine military said had severely injured a navy sailor and damaged Manila's vessels.

"The department has been exerting efforts to rebuild a conducive environment for dialogue and consultation with China on the South China Sea," the ministry said in a statement.

"This cannot be achieved if China's words do not match their actions on the waters."

A Philippine sailor suffered serious injury after what its military described as "intentional-high speed ramming" by the Chinese Coast Guard, aiming to disrupt a resupply mission for troops stationed on the Second Thomas Shoal.

China's Coast Guard disputed the statement, saying Manila's vessel deliberately and dangerously approached a Chinese ship in an unprofessional manner, forcing it to take control measures, including "boarding inspections and forced evictions".

A military spokesperson said the sailor, who received a medal for wounded personnel from the military chief on Wednesday, lost a finger and was recovering in a hospital.

China's Coast Guard personnel, which Philippine military officials said were carrying knives and spears, looted firearms and "deliberately punctured" Philippine boats involved in the mission.

"They have no right or legal authority to hijack our operations and destroy Philippine vessels," military chief Romeo Brawner said in a briefing on Wednesday. "They boarded our boats illegally, they got our equipment, they acted like pirates."

China took no direct measures against Philippine personnel, its foreign ministry said in response on Wednesday.

"The law enforcement measures ... were professional and restrained, aimed at stopping the illegal fishing by Philippine ships, and no direct measures were taken against Philippine personnel," said ministry spokesperson Lin Jian.

Though the Philippines repeatedly claimed to be transporting daily necessities, it had been smuggling building materials and even weapons and ammunition in a bid to occupy Renai Reef for a long time, Lin told a regular press briefing.

China refers to the Second Thomas Shoal as Renai Reef, while Manila calls it Ayungin.

Britain, Canada and the United States have condemned China's actions, which occurred as Beijing's new coast guard rules allowing it to detain trespassers without trial took effect on June 15.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday held a call with Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo to discuss China's actions in the South China Sea and reaffirmed U.S. commitments to the Philippines under their defense treaty, the State Department said.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, which includes the Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippines maintains a warship, Sierra Madre, beached in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims, with a small crew.

In January, Manila and Beijing agreed to improve maritime communication through talks, especially regarding the shoal.

An international tribunal dismissed China's expansive claims in 2016, but the country has repeatedly said Philippine vessels illegally intrude into waters around disputed shoals.

(Reporting by Mikhail Flores and Neil Jerome Morales; additional reporting by Laurie Chen in Beijing and Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by John Mair, Clarence Fernandez, Alison Williams and Sandra Maler)
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas coast guard looted firearms and destroyed Philippine boats during a South China Sea clash this week, military officials said, prompting Manila to demand compensation from Beijing.

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They have no right or legal authority to hijack our operations and destroy Philippine vessels operating within our exclusive economic zone, Philippine military chief Romeo Brawner Jr. said of Chinese forces in a briefing Wednesday. They are acting like pirates.

China Coast Guard personnel illegally boarded Philippine rubber boats during Manilas resupply mission Monday to its military outpost in the Second Thomas Shoal, Alfonso Torres Jr., head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command said. They then seized and disassembled the firearms found in the Philippine boats, he said.

The firearms were looted, Torres said, adding the Chinese crew also deliberately punctured Philippine rubber boats using knives and other pointed materials during the encounter.

The details of Mondays encounter, one of the most serious incidents yet between the two countries in the disputed, resource-rich waterway, were revealed as the Philippines and other countries denounced Chinas latest actions.

China on Wednesday maintained that the law enforcement measures taken by its coast guard were professional.

It only stopped Philippine vessels from illegal transportation. No direct measures have been taken against Philippine personnel, China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular briefing in Beijing, accusing Manila of smuggling weapons and construction materials, and attempting to occupy Second Thomas Shoal.

Brawner said it was the first time that the Chinese coast guard brought with them bolos, spears and knives, prompting Filipino soldiers to fight back with their bare hands.

Our action now is we are demanding that the Chinese return our rifles, and our equipment and we are also demanding them to pay for the damages they have caused. This is piracy because they boarded our boats illegally and they got our equipment, he said.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.s administration has asserted the Philippines claims in the South China Sea, defying Bejiings expansive claims over the waterway.

Brawner visited the Western Command headquarters in the island province of Palawan to check on personnel who were injured during the mission, including one who lost a finger.

He said that he is willing to go back to serve again in the West Philippine Sea, Brawner said, recalling a conversation with the serviceman and using Manilas term for the waters within its exclusive economic zone. They didnt lose their fighting spirit, and thats whats important.

The latest maritime incident shows that China is trying to increase pressure on the Philippines, and could also be seen as a test for the US support of its treaty ally, according to Chong Ja Ian, an associate professor of political science at the National University of Singapore.

It appears that Beijing hopes to wear down the Philippines to get them to withdraw from Second Thomas Shoal, he said.

--With assistance from Andreo Calonzo and Bingyan Wang.

(Adds comments from Chinas foreign ministry, professor.)

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Philly has the countrys highest STI rates. Improving sex ed in schools could lower them.

(Getty Images)

By Carlos Mahaffey, Purdue University

Philadelphia ranks No. 1 among U.S. cities for new sexually transmitted infections  STIs  according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

This is up from fifth place in 2023 and puts Philadelphia ahead of four cities that previously rated higher: Memphis, Tennessee; Jackson, Mississippi; New Orleans and St. Louis.

Among 15- to 24-year-olds in Philadelphia, syphilis cases have shot up 30% since 2019, while cases of gonorrhea increased 18%. Chlamydia cases are down 13% from pre-pandemic numbers among this age group, but remain high.

As a public health professor, I research sexual health issues and disparities among Black men who have sex with men and other marginalized groups. I work directly with these communities to research and create health interventions that meet their needs.

I know that two important barriers to young peoples sexual health are high-quality sex education and access to confidential STI testing.

Sex ed in schools

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In the U.S., 28 states and Washington D.C. mandate sex education in both elementary and high schools. These programs are typically comprehensive and include education on STIs.

Pennsylvania, however, is not one of those states.

Pennsylvania state law does require schools to provide instruction on the prevention of HIV and AIDS and other life-threatening and communicable diseases  though it does not specify STIs.

Each school district in the state can decide which education materials are used to meet the requirements. This information isnt required to be medically accurate or supported by evidence-based research.

Schools are also not required to discuss consent, sexual orientation and gender identity, or healthy sexual relationships.

Abstinence-based vs. comprehensive

The absence of more specific policies and standards led to controversial sex education instruction in the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District, in suburban Philadelphia, in 2018. A 17-year-old student filed a complaint to the school district that the RealEd relationship education program they received advised avoiding kissing or cuddling, which could deprive them of hormones and make bonding with a future spouse difficult.

Other students reported that the curriculum taught them that having too many sexual partners makes them less sticky, like a reused piece of tape, and prevents them from having healthy relationships.

Research suggests that sex education programs that stress abstinence do not decrease rates of STIs and HIV. In some instances, they could lead to an increase in STIs.

In contrast, studies have shown that comprehensive sex education programs in schools have resulted in lower rates of sexual activity, increased use of contraception, and fewer teen pregnancies. These comprehensive programs are medically accurate and age appropriate, and provide broad knowledge for youth on sexual health beyond the topics of HIV, STIs and abstinence.

Its not clear whether comprehensive sex education programs directly lead to fewer STI rates. However, research does show that increased safe-sex practices is a consistent result from comprehensive sex education.

While the School District of Philadelphia does not report having any specific mandates around sex education, it confirmed via email that all 218 district schools  this does not include their alternative and charter schools  use selected lessons from the 3Rs: Rights, Respect, Responsibility sex ed curriculum as part of their health education for grades K-12.

In addition, their Office of Health, Safety and Physical Education works closely with a grant-based program called Promoting Adolescent Student Health, or PASH,. The program focuses on reducing youth risk behaviors that lead to unintended pregnancy, STI and HIV at 17 priority schools in the city.

Confidential testing and other strategies

In the absence of tailored, comprehensive sex education programming for all school-age youth in Philadelphia, here are some evidence-based strategies that can be implemented to reduce the rates of new STI infections.

More relevant curricula: Current sex ed programs could include a broader range of sexual health topics, such as healthy communication and sexual pleasure. Curricula could also be adapted and implemented for younger age groups, and health professionals could collaborate directly with students to determine what they want included in a sex education program. Providing the information online can help make it more accessible and easier to keep updated.

LGBTQ+-inclusive curricula: LGBTQ+ youth are often more vulnerable to STIs due to stigma and lack of access to culturally affirming health care. They are also more likely to experience harmful outcomes from abstinence-based programs and to disengage from comprehensive sex education programs that are not tailored to their needs. Research shows much better outcomes from comprehensive sex education programs that are inclusive of the needs of LGBTQ+ youth and delivered prior to youth engaging in sexual activity.

At-home testing: Testing can slow the spread of STIs, and at-home testing in particular can address many young peoples concerns of confidentiality and access. Research has shown that young people want at-home STI and HIV screening kits, which are affordable and convenient.

Affirming health care: I believe its also important that health care providers receive education and training on how to provide culturally affirming sexual health care to young people. This includes providers being able to initiate what they may deem as uncomfortable conversations with patients of different racial or ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations and gender identities.

Comprehensive treatment: Researchers who conducted a study of over 5,000 Philadelphia teens age 16-17 recommend that health care professionals implement whats called an STI Care Continuum to improve STI screening and treatment for young people. This means youth who have STI symptoms are not only tested and treated, but also provided contact-tracing resources and prevention counseling, and are retested.

When it comes to testing, national guidelines recommend health care providers screen all women ages 25 or younger for chlamydia and gonorrhea annually. A minimum of annual testing of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis is recommended for young men who have sex with men.

If schools, communities, health care professionals and other groups pursued these strategies concurrently and in collaboration, I believe STI rates among Philadelphia youth would decline significantly.

The Conversation

Carlos Mahaffey is an Assistant Professor of Public Health at Purdue University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The post Philly has the countrys highest STI rates. Improving sex ed in schools could lower them. appeared first on Pennsylvania Capital-Star.
Chad Luce feels pretty fortunate over the years.

"I've been a third-generation Jocassee Luce. My grandfather, he unloaded the first rotor poles that were brought up here. My dad worked here during construction, and he moved on and worked at Oconee Nuclear," Luce, Jocassee station superintendent, said, walking around the site of the public celebration for the 50th anniversary of Jocassee Hydro Station in Salem on Friday.

Preston Pierce, left, General Manager for Duke Energy Hydro West, and Chad Luce, a third generation worker for Duke Energy, the station superintendent for Jocassee Hydro Station, walk by electric panels during a tour for the the 50th Anniversary event of the Jocassee Hydro Station in Salem, S.C. Friday, June 14, 2024.

The station near Salem, built in 1973, with its upper reservoir, Lake Jocassee, borders the Carolinas. The station near Devils Fork State Park off of State Highway 11 provides clean power to more than 600,000 homes and sits on the lower reservoir on Lake Keowee. Both lakes are known for mountain recreational activity, a 40-minute drive above Clemson University.

"We're here today to celebrate the 50th anniversary for Jocassee Hydro," he said. "The first two units went commercial in 1973, and the second two went commercial in 1975. We just got the new Keowee-Toxaway license (in 2016); it's a new 30-year operating license," said Preston Pierce, general manager for Duke Energy Hydro West.

Upgrades in 2011 brought the total station capacity to 780 megawatts, and in 2023, hydroelectric generation from all Duke Energy hydro stations provided 4.3 million megawatt-hours of clean energy for a year.

As seen published in the Anderson Daily Mail on November 30, 1969, photographer Kayle Turner reported in the photo caption that "Heavy construction trucks at Duke Power Co.'s Jocassee Dam look like ants from the air and are dwarfed by the immensity of metal pipe that will be inserted in the four power tunnels at the base of Jocassee Dam. The tunnels (upper left) are cut through solid rock. The dam and consequent lake is part of the utility company's $700 million Keowee-Toxaway project."

Answering questions on the tour, Ben Williamson, communications manager for Duke Energy Corporate Communications Generation and Emergency Response, explained the present and future of power in the Carolinas.

"Jocassee and Bad Creek are two pumps hydro assets, and we really look at it as energy storage. If you look what North Carolina and South Carolina, the growth that we're seeing, the unprecedented growth and folks that are moving here," Williamson said.

Ben Williamson, Communications Manager for Duke Energy Corporate Communications Generation and Emergency Response, during the 50th Anniversary event of the Jocassee Hydro Station in Salem, S.C. Friday, June 14, 2024.

"We really believe that pump storage is really the only proven long-duration storage. You got over 2,400 megawatts of storage capability. Energy storage is going to play a really important role in our future and our plan is to meet load. We've seen incredible demand increase just in the last 12 months."

Chad Luce, the station superintendent for Jocassee Hydro Station, walks toward a turbine during a tour for the 50th Anniversary event of the Jocassee Hydro Station in Salem, S.C. Friday, June 14, 2024. Luce's grandfather Howard Luce, and father Benny Luce both worked for Duke prior to him.

" We've got large technology companies, AI, chip data centers, wanting to come to North Carolina, wanting to come to South Carolina. As we continue how to figure out how to meet that load, it's going to be all of the above approach. Nuclear, right now coal, right now natural gas. As you add renewables, we're going to be adding a lot of renewables. A lot of solar, we're going to be adding batteries, but you've got to have something that can integrate that long-duration storage. Energy storage, especially long-duration storage, is going to be a critical piece of our portfolio moving forward."

Cookies for visitors at the hospitality tent, during the 50th Anniversary event of the Jocassee Hydro Station in Salem, S.C. Friday, June 14, 2024.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Anniversary of Jocassee Hydro Plant informs public of energy readiness
The relieving platform otherwise known as the supporting structure of Beauforts iconic seawall at its famed Waterfront Park is in severe deterioration. The seawall is the anchor of the citys downtown but the deterioration is so severe the weight of a docking cruise ship could potentially cause a catastrophic failure  and must be replaced.

Those are the conclusions of a new report and one of the engineers who dived into the silty, murky waters of the Beaufort River to inspect the massive 50-year-old underwater relieving platform attached to the seawall at the foot of Waterfront Park.

The report has prompted the city to suspend visits by large cruise ships and begin discussions on temporary and long-term fixes to what may be the citys most well-known public amenity in what will surely be a multi-million dollar capital expense.

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, photographed on Feb. 14, 2024, overlooks the Beaufort River and the Beaufort Downtown Marina. It was opened in 1979 and is built upon a series of 570 pilings.

Bill Barna, an underwater engineering consultant with McSweeney Engineers, was among a five-person team of divers who inspected the seawall and relieving platform at the park as part of a five-year inspection. The popular seawall, where cruise ships had been docking and tourists and residents walk on a promenade along the river, was opened in 1979 and basically floats on a series of 570 pilings.

In 2005, the park was renovated at a cost to the city of Beaufort for more than $8 million.

According to Barna, it is the supporting structure relieving platform that has the most concerning deterioration, but the 1,200-foot-long seawall is showing its age, too and needs repairs.

Photos of Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park shows issues with the iconic park in downtown Beaufort.

The relieving platform, a horizontal structural designed to lower the pressure on the seawall, has 570 concrete piles, a concrete cap and a concrete deck and 6 feet of fill.

In the recent inspection, the diving team found seven piles that were broken beyond repair and another 46 with moderate to major deterioration including a soft outer layer with rounded edges. The original piles were square.

Following previous inspections, encasements, or jackets, were placed around 47 piles to reinforce them to eke out a little more life, and those fixes are intact, Barna said.

Pictured is one of the pilings of Beauforts Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park photographed on Thursday, May 10, 2018, as a fish, upper right of frame, swims near the diver. The protruding clips are part of the installation process used by contractors to fortify the pilings with an epoxy grout.

Most significantly, in isolated locations this deterioration has led to exposure of the internal reinforcing steel, McSweeney Engineers wrote in a 46-page inspection report to the city. These conditions result in an overall loss of structural capacity in comparison with as built conditions.

At a recent meeting when the reports findings were presented to the City Council, Councilman Mitch Mitchell asked Barna whether something catastrophic could happen.

I find it quite frightening to be honest with you, Mitchell said of the condition of the relieving platform.

A new report recommends that the city of Beaufort restrict commercial vessels such as American Cruise Lines cruise ships until the seawall and other supporting undergo a structural analysis.

Typically, Barna said, these types of structures fail slowly without a catastrophic collapse. Under normal deterioration, gradual signs, like sinks holes, would appear. While sink holes have been seen in the past at Beauforts Watefront park, most have been attributed to problems with the seawall, not the relieving platform, Barna said. He added, Where I think you could potentially have a catastrophic failure would be where if you had a cruise ship incident.

In 2023, a 220-foot-long cruise vessel tore a handrail post from the seawall foundation.

The largest concentration of defects and pile encasements are at the west end of the facility, which is where commercial cruise vessels moor against the structure and where the water is deepest and the current is highest, the report notes.

A recent inspection found distressed concrete piles in the relieving platform at Beaufort Waterfront Park, which is the horizontal structural designed to lower the pressure on the seawall. It has 570 concrete piles.

The ability of the structure to continue withstanding the additional lateral loads from these vessels, the report adds, is highly suspect.

The safest actions, the report recommends, would be restricting cruise ship mooring until the structure is replaced or an auxiliary mooring system is installed.

The report also recommends increased inspections and initiating preliminary studies and securing funding to begin replacement of the structure.

Barna suspects a quality control issue during the casting of the piles is a factor in their deterioration.

Its pretty clear we cant have another cruise ship in here until theres some sort of mitigation of the strain that large vessels place on the platform, City Manager Scott Marshall said. The city, Marshall said, has been in communication with American Cruise Lines, which docks in Beaufort. The company is willing to work with the city on a mitigating structure, Marshall said. The city also plans to consult with the state Department of Health and Environmental Controls Ocean and Coastal Resource Management division and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

This isnt the first time inspectors have found problems. In 2014, Barna noted, 30% of the piles had missing concrete. Complicating the issue today is only 227 of the 570- piles supporting the structure are accessible because of silt build-up below the structure. The excessive silt has increased to the point where a diver, on his belly, with his face in the channel bottom, and reserve air tank touching the ceiling, cannot safely access the piling in these locations, Barna said.

It suffices to say that the foundation supporting the relieving platform has reached the end of its service life, the report says.

Clarification: An earlier version of this story incorrectly said an engineer described some of the deteriorating concrete piles as having the consistency of pudding. He was referring to the consistency of silt build-up under the piles, not the piles.
A screenshot from video provided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines purports to show a Philippine boat forcibly towed away from its fellow Philippine fleet by two China Coast Guard boats, in the South China Sea on June 17, 2024. Credit - Armed Forces of the Philippines

The Philippine military denounced Chinas latest actions in the hotly disputed South China Sea, saying that a confrontation earlier this week resulted in a Filipino navy serviceman losing a finger.

Late Wednesday local time, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) shared a series of videos and posts on social media about the Monday incident, which it called a brazen act of aggression. Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, said the footage serves as a clear indication that humanity has once again allowed barbarism to trample upon compassion.

This is how barbaric the Chinese Coast Guard is in the recent RoRe mission of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. These videos show how blatantly they use physical attacks and violence to prevent our soldiers from completing the legitimate and humanitarian resupply mission to pic.twitter.com/7vzFDem1DE  Jay Tarriela (@jaytaryela) June 19, 2024

The AFP posts, backed by recordings, asserted that Chinese forces brandished bladed weapons, deployed tear gas, hurled rocks, and blared sirens and strobe lights to cause disorder, among other measures, at Filipino troops aboard rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs). A Chinese aircraft circled overhead, the AFP added, in a further display of excessive force and intimidation, as the China Coast Guard (CCG) allegedly forcibly commandeered a Philippine boat.

Crammed in the middle by two CCG boats is an AFP Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) which was forcibly surrounded, dragged and eventually towed away from BRP Sierra Madre (LS57) with the intention to isolate it from the rest of the Filipino troops. pic.twitter.com/1kZRx3Lvay  Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) June 19, 2024

In a press conference earlier Wednesday, AFP commander Alfonso Torres Jr. said CCG personnel illegally boarded the Philippine rubber boats that were conducting a routine resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded vessel at the Second Thomas Shoal that has functioned as an outpost to maintain the Philippines claim to the shoal.

Torres also said the Chinese looted seven of the Philippine navys rifles, which were disassembled inside gun cases and were supposed to be for Filipino servicemen stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre.

Eight Philippine navy personnel reportedly sustained injuries, though the military has only confirmed one victim: a sailor whose right thumb got severed after the CCG rammed the Philippine boats.

Because of the speed, the forward portion of the China Coast Guards RHIB landed on top of our troops RHIB, and unfortunately our troops hand was there, Torres said. Its a relief that it wasnt the whole hand.

AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. said the standoff, the latest in a series of escalations in the disputed waterway, marked the first time Filipino troops encountered CCG members armed with bladed weapons like bolos, knives, and spears, which they allegedly used to pierce through Philippine Navy boats. We saw in the video how the Chinese even threatened our personnel by pointing their knives, Brawner said.

The CCG launched a brutal assault on the AFP personnel aboard an AFP Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB), aggressively ramming it and brandishing bladed and pointed weapons, explicitly threatening to harm AFP troops. pic.twitter.com/LuFgLE3WJj  Armed Forces of the Philippines (@TeamAFP) June 19, 2024

Brawner said the AFP demands that Beijing return the disassembled rifles. We are also demanding from them to pay for the damages that they have caused, he added. For me, this is piracy already Because they boarded our boats illegally. They got our equipment. Again, based on their actions, its like they are pirates.

The Philippines foreign affairs department said it denounces the illegal and aggressive actions of Chinese authorities that resulted in personnel injury and vessel damage.

Chinas foreign ministry, in response to the accusations, said Wednesday that its actions against Philippine troops were professional and restrained and aimed at stopping the illegal resupply mission, adding that its maneuvers did not constitute direct measures.

The clash came just days after Beijing implemented a new administrative law that effectively authorizes the CCG to arrest foreign vessels that illegally enter Chinas territorial waters and to detain foreign crews for up to 60 days.

But the Philippines and its allies, including the United States, continue to point to an international tribunal ruling invalidating Chinas claims to the sea that China ignores.

The U.S. State Department on Monday condemned Chinas actions, which it said threatens regional peace and stability, and reaffirmed Washingtons commitment to a mutual defense treaty with Manila, which is meant to come into effect should Philippine forces face an armed attack.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Placer DA: Roseville mom sat on 9-year-old son, torturing him as dad did nothing to stop it

Prosecutors in a Placer County murder case allege that a Roseville mother sat on her adopted 9-year-old son and beat him continuously for about 40 minutes as the boys father did nothing to stop it.

Cory Albert Blakley, 38, and Kimberly Rachel Blakley, 37, were the adoptive parents of the boy who has been identified as Cyrus Blakley. His parents are accused of murder, torture and child abuse in his death in February.

The prosecutors argued that both parents were responsible for the boys death and the pain he suffered, according to a filed court transcript of a three-day preliminary hearing in April in which evidence and testimony was presented.

Deputy District Attorney Andrew Braden, one of the prosecutors in the murder case, told the judge that the boys mother, who weighed about 210 pounds, tortured her son by sitting on the child, depriving him of oxygen and continually beating him.

She sat on a childs chest ... on a cushion and repeatedly beat him for approximately 40 minutes, beat him until he no longer made a sound, Braden said in court.

The Blakleys had seven children  two biological children, five who were adopted. They all lived together in a home on New England Drive, just east of Sunrise Boulevard.

Kimberly Rachel Blakley pleads not guilty during her arraignment at the Placer Superior Court in Roseville on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. She and her husband Cory Albert Blakley are accused of murder, torture and child abuse in the death of their adopted 9-year-old son.

Cameras found in Roseville home

Roseville police investigators found several Ring-brand cameras that were motion-detected and installed in most of the rooms of the home, including the four bedrooms, the garage, a laundry room and the living room camera. Prosecutors alleged that Cory Blakley deleted the video captured in the living room camera, so they couldnt see everything that happened to Cyrus on Feb. 2 in the living room but they could hear it.

Braden argued the mother was exacting revenge on Cyrus after he told his classmates or school officials that his dogs had died, and he was forced to take the pets outside.

The prosecutor told the judge that the mother could be heard in the video repeatedly saying Child Protective Services was going to come and take the children away because Cyrus didnt care about the family. Braden said the videos show the mother sitting on the boy, his legs on the ground, beating him as he tried to break free.

There are moments in the video where (Cyrus) begs for her to stop, telling her that he cannot breathe, Braden told the judge. She continues and does not stop and even threatens to shove something in his mouth.

Brad Whatcott, an attorney from the Public Defenders Office representing Kimberly Blakley, argued in the April hearing that his client was not seeking revenge but was trying to discipline the boy.

Now, I do agree that the discipline, the spanking, the sitting on (Cyrus), that was misguided, irrational, unjustifiable disciplining of a child, Whatcott argued, according to court documents. But I dont believe that amounts to an expectation that someones going to die from those actions.

The defense attorney told the judge that there wasnt any evidence that showed the mother intended to cause any sort of cruel or extreme pain. Whatcott said his clients demeanor completely changed after she realized Cyrus was no longer responsive.

Cyrus Blakley is seen in an undated family photo. The 9-year-old died Feb. 5, three days after firefighters responded to the familys home in Roseville. His adoptive parents, Kimberly and Cory Blakley face multiple charges in the boys death.

The boys February death

About 6 p.m. Feb. 2, officers and firefighters responded to a medical aid call at the familys home. The officers found the 9-year-old boy unresponsive. He died three days later at UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento.

Prosecutors are alleging the parents abuse caused the boy to become comatose. According to the criminal complaint, Cyrus suffered brain injury and paralysis.

The Blakleys remain in custody at the Placer County jail, where theyve been held without bail since their Feb. 7 arrest.

Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Ow, who also is prosecuting the case against the Blakleys, argued in court that Cyrus father clearly didnt participate in the boys beating, but Cory Blakley was present for the entire  or most of the  beating.

If he didnt see it all, he heard it, just like we could see in all the videos from various positions in the house, Ow told the judge. I dont know whats worse, watching it or hearing it. You can hear the child gasping for air. You can hear the force of the strikes being inflicted on him.

The prosecutor said the audio also documented the number of times Cyrus was hit as the boy apologized to his mom.

You can hear (the) mother taunting him, and you can watch dad as he putters around in the kitchen drinking his soda, talking to his kids about turning off and on the lights, Ow said in court.

She argued that Cory Blakley was laughing at videos that his wife was apparently watching as she allegedly sat on the boy on the living room couch. Ow told the judge that the father failed to perform his legal duty as a parent in conscious disregard for his sons life, even closing a window near the couch as the boy yelled for help that couldve alerted a neighbor to potentially help the child or call police.

Cory Albert Blakley pleads not guilty during his arraignment at the Placer Superior Court in Roseville on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024. He and his wife Kimberly Rachel Blakley are accused of murder, torture and child abuse in the death of their adopted 9-year-old son.

Barry Zimmerman, a defense attorney hired to represent Cory Blakley, argued that his client did not participate in the childs beating and that the fathers failure to act could not be attributed to the proximate cause of the boys death.

His failure to call 911, his failure even if he were to have said Stop, would she have stopped? Zimmerman argued in court. She was out of control.

The defense attorney told the judge that the boy died at the hands of Kimberly.

In arguing for his client, Zimmerman told the judge: Theres no evidence that my client encouraged her to hold (Cyrus) down in that fashion or intended for him to die.

Roseville parents ordered to stand trial

On April 17, Judge Jeffrey Penney ordered the Blakleys to stand trial on the murder, torture and child abuse charges, along with felony charges of dissuading witnesses. The prosecutors allege the parents told the children not to speak truthfully to investigators. The Blakleys also face misdemeanor charges of child endangerment.

Ow told the judge theres no doubt Cyrus siblings will be negatively and adversely affected by watching their brother be killed by their mother in front of their own eyes.

The Blakleys appeared briefly last week in Placer Superior Court. Zimmerman is filing a motion challenging Penneys ruling in the preliminary hearing. A hearing for the fathers defense motion was initially scheduled for June 26, but Judge Stephen L. Mock postponed that hearing until July 12 at Zimmermans request.
This undated photo shows a company of Germany's Bosch Group in Wuxi, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua)

President of Bosch China said the company is confident with China's prospects as the largest market outside Germany and reaffirmed the company's commitment to investing in new technologies and a range of smart mobility solutions.

FRANKFURT, June 19 (Xinhua) -- German company Bosch is aiming to become a leading global software supplier for automakers, it announced on Wednesday.

The global market for software and electronics is set to grow at a pace faster than automotive production by 2030, consultancies said. "We want to be the number-one choice for automakers worldwide in this area as well," Stefan Hartung, chairman of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH, said at an address made at Bosch Tech Day 2024.

Citing a forecast by McKinsey, Hartung said the global market for automotive software and electronics could reach 462 billion U.S. dollars by 2030, which is equivalent to a 5.5 percent average annual growth from 2019.

As well as the software Bosch has developed to go with its hardware, the company has also been investing heavily in the so-called "standalone software."

Federal Chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz visits Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing) Co., Ltd. in Jiulongpo District of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, April 14, 2024. (Xinhua/Huang Wei)

"By the end of the decade, we want our software to generate sales running into the billions," Hartung said, stressing that software has become "one of the mainstays of success."

On Tuesday, President of Bosch China Xu Daquan said at a media briefing that the company is confident with China's prospects as the largest market outside Germany and reaffirmed the company's commitment to investing in new technologies and a range of smart mobility solutions.

Over the last decade, Bosch has invested approximately 50 billion yuan (6.89 billion dollars) in the Chinese market, said Xu, adding that Bosch is steadily ramping up its investments in China, focusing particularly on electrification, automation, and internet technologies.

A worker works at Bosch Hydrogen Powertrain Systems (Chongqing) Co., Ltd. in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, April 19, 2024. TO GO WITH "Economic Watch: China, Germany shore up synergy of green development" (Xinhua/Huang Wei)

Xu emphasized that by nurturing research and development teams in China and establishing a reliable product supply chain, Bosch aims to export locally developed products and technologies to the world, gradually integrating them into the global market and supporting Bosch's locations in other regions as well. 
A Florida plastic surgeon turned himself in on Monday after authorities said he refused to call 911 while his wife was experiencing a seizure as he operated on her at his office in Pensacola last November.

Benjamin Jacob Brown, 41, was booked on suspicion of second-degree felony homicide: manslaughter by culpable negligence in the death of his wife, the Santa Rosa County Sheriffs Office announced. Hillary Ellington Brown, 33, died at a local hospital after having a heart attack.

On the morning of Nov. 21, 2023, Brown was scheduled to undergo multiple cosmetic procedures at her husbands business, Restore Plastic Surgery, including a miniature muscle plication/abdominal scar revision and lip injections, according to an administrative complaint filed by the Florida Department of Health and obtained by HuffPost.

Staff members at Restore Plastic Surgery detailed the events leading up to Hillary Browns seizure in interviews with detectives, according to an unredacted arrest warrant obtained by HuffPost. They said she had ingested a handful of pills before her procedure.

During the surgery, the anesthesia that Hillary Brown was receiving through IV bags ran out, according to staff members. Benjamin Brown then instructed employees to pour two containers into a bowl without diluting the contents and to inject the solution into his wifes arms and face, the warrant states.

Prosecutors identified the undiluted solution in the bowl as Xylocaine, a brand name of the local anesthetic lidocaine. According to the arrest warrant, the medical examiner determined that Hillary Brown died from complications from lidocaine toxicity, and alleged that Benjamin Brown did not document injecting undiluted lidocaine into his wifes arm.

Hillary Ellington Brown, 33, died last November after her plastic surgeon husband operated on her and allegedly refused to call 911 when she showed signs of a seizure. Instagram

Prosecutors also allege that Benjamin Brown allowed his wife to suture her own skin back together at one point during her surgery. According to witnesses, she became restless and her feet began twitching, which worsened as her husband performed liposuction on her arm.

By 3:30 p.m., Benjamin Brown began operating on his wifes face and injected her lips and eyes with what was apparently undiluted lidocaine, according to an employees account cited in the arrest warrant. At this point, Hillary Brown allegedly began complaining that she was seeing orange. Once her husband began injections into her right eye, she started to have a seizure, the staff member said.

Another staff member told detectives that she was showing signs of overdosing and began convulsing.

Several employees asked if they should call 911, but said Benjamin Brown told them to wait because he wanted to try and do it himself, according to the arrest warrant. One staff member told detectives that they did not have supplies to provide Hillary Brown with additional oxygen or an EKG to monitor her heart rate in the room.

Another employee told detectives there should have been a crash cart in the room containing supplies and equipment for emergencies and confirmed that the room did not contain any life-saving devices.

A medical assistant eventually called 911 between 10 and 20 minutes after Hillary Brown appeared to show signs of a seizure, according to the complaint. Deputies responded, and first responders attempted to save Browns life.

Brown was taken to the emergency room, where her condition stabilized, but she was later taken to an intensive care unit at a separate hospital, according to the warrant, and never regained consciousness. She died a week later.

Marty Ellington, Hillary Browns father, told the Pensacola News Journal that he blames his daughters death on his son-in-laws carelessness.

His ego and arrogance overshadowed the need for help, prolonging oxygen deprivation to her brain and ultimately causing her death, Ellington told the outlet.

He said his daughter was unhappy in her marriage and that her husband was more concerned with his finances than her life while she was in the hospital.

Apparently his insurance was canceled on Nov. 30, Ellington told the outlet. He sent me a text that we need to make sure that her time of death is before the 30th because the insurance benefits go away and my grandkids wouldnt get some of the life insurance.

Benjamin Browns attorney did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

Related...
An attendee looks at a series of banners for 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. Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images.

States and local organizations that aid victims of sexual assault and other crimes are raising the alarm about a multi-year plunge in funds, a major problem they say Congress must fix soon or programs will be forced to set up wait lists or turn victims away altogether.

Affected are rape crisis centers, domestic violence shelters, child advocacy centers and more organizations that serve millions of Americans and cant necessarily rely on scarce state or local dollars to keep the doors open if federal money runs short.

The problem has to do with a cap on withdrawals from the federal crime victims fund, put in place by Congress years ago in an earlier attempt at a solution.

Under the cap, how much money is available every year is determined by a complex three-year average of certain federal 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.

National Childrens Alliance CEO Teresa Huizar said in an interview with States Newsroom that child advocacy centers, which help connect children who have survived sexual or domestic abuse to essential services, have no fat left to trim in their budgets.

What childrens advocacy centers are really looking at now are a set of extremely hard choices, Huizar said. Which kids to serve, which kids to turn away? CACs that have never had to triage cases previously, now will have to. CACs that have never had a waitlist for mental health services will now have long, lengthy waitlists to get kids in for therapy.

I mean, imagine being a kid whos been sexually abused and being told youre going to have to wait six months to see a counselor, Huizar added. Its terrible.

New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, chairwoman of the spending panel that sets the cap every year, based on the dwindling revenue, and Kansas Republican Sen. Jerry Moran, the subcommittees ranking member, both indicated during brief interviews with States Newsroom that a fix is in the works, but declined to provide details.

There is an effort to address that and were in the process of doing that, but in the meantime theres not as much money there, Shaheen said.

Fund goes up and down by billions every year

Congress established the crime victims fund in 1984 when it approved the Victims of Crime Act. Its funding comes from fines, forfeited bonds and other financial penalties in certain federal cases.

The money flowing into the fund fluctuates each year, making it difficult for the organizations that apply for and receive grant funding to plan their budgets. Congress hoped to alleviate those boom-and-bust cycles by placing the annual cap on how much money can be drawn from the crime victims fund.

But that cap has sharply decreased recently, causing frustration for organizations that rely on it and leading to repeated calls for Congress to find a long-term solution.

The cap stayed below $1 billion annually until fiscal year 2015 when it spiked to $2.3 billion before reaching a high of $4.4 billion in fiscal year 2018.

The annual ceiling then dropped by more than $1 billion, starting the downward trend, according to a report from the Congressional Research Service and data from the Department of Justice.

The cap was set at $2 billion in fiscal year 2021 before rising to $2.6 billion in fiscal 2022 and then dropping to $1.9 billion in fiscal 2023.

Congress set the cap on withdrawals at $1.2 billion for fiscal 2024 when it approved the latest round of appropriations in March, and states and localities have reacted with concern at the prospect of such a dramatic cut. In Iowa, for example, where the state receives $5 million a year, the potential loss of funding posed a major question as legislators wrote their budget for judicial services.

A better fix sought

Congress approved legislation in 2021 to increase the types of revenue from federal court cases moving into the crime victims fund, but advocates say a longer-term answer is needed.

Huizar said the National Childrens Alliance and prosecutors as well as organizations that combat domestic and sexual violence have been urging Congress to fix the funding stream or supplement it to provide stability and consistency.

Now is the time for Congress to turn urgent attention to this issue if they do not want the safety net for kids and families and serious crime victims to just fall apart, Huizar said.

A bipartisan group of lawmakers  Reps. Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.), Jim Costa (D-Calif.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas) and Ann Wagner (R-Mo).  have introduced legislation that would move unobligated funds collected from entities that defraud the federal government under the False Claims Act to the crime victims fund. The act is a main tool the federal government uses to fight fraud.

That bill is not a long-term solution, but a temporary infusion of resources, according to a summary released by lawmakers.

As for the Senate appropriators, Moran said he and others on the spending subcommittee are waiting for the Judiciary Committees examination of the issue, so that we can take the authorizers suggestions and take them into account when we appropriate.

Josh Sorbe, a spokesperson for the Senate Judiciary Committee, chaired by Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin, wrote in a statement the sustainability of the CVF is extremely important, as evidenced by Senator Durbins work on the VOCA Fix that passed in 2021, and we continue to work with our colleagues and survivor advocates and service providers to examine further ways to strengthen the CVF.

Shaheens office did not provide details about what changes may be in the works, following multiple requests from States Newsroom.

Should taxpayer dollars be tapped?

National District Attorneys Association President Charles Smith said his organization supports the House bill, but noted one problem with the short-term fix is that the crime victims fund would be last in line to get the additional revenue.

I believe that the government gets their money first, the whistleblower second and then were in kind of third place there, said Smith, who also is the Frederick County states attorney.

One struggle over the fluctuating revenue and available funding, Smith said, is debate about whether taxpayer dollars should be used to offset low balances.

We need to set a number that everybodys happy with, so to speak, and fund it through these available sources, Smith said. But if theres a deficit, there needs to be some mechanism in place for it to come out of the general fund.

The crime victims fund is essential for witness coordinators and victims assistance coordinators in prosecutors offices as well as other services for people who survive crimes.

Theyre critical for the well-being of the victim and a lot of times they are critical for the witness even showing up and testifying, Smith said.

The organizations that support crime victims, like child advocacy centers, domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers, are crucial to prosecutors, Smith said.

Not only are we directly impacted by a loss of staffing and loss of resources, but a lot of the partner agencies that we rely on collaborating with are going to be hurt as well, Smith said of the reduction to the funding cap.

Real alarm in states

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 prosecuting fewer corporate cases has impacted 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 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 arent enough funds to do that.

What weve seen across the states is real alarm that the cuts coming down are not just impacting the ability of these organizations to offer certain services, but to really keep their doors open, Delaney said.

Child advocacy centers, domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers, Delaney added, are the real boots on the ground organizations that are helping people in times of very active crisis that are at risk of seeing their programs drastically cut to the point where service is placed in jeopardy.

If you are a victim of crime, there are toll free, text and online hotlines available. A list from the Office for Victims of Crime is here. You can also find help in your state here.

The post Plummeting balance in federal crime victims fund sparks alarm among states, advocates appeared first on Maryland Matters.
Police commend caller who reported DUI suspect with children in the car

DENVER (KDVR)  A man arrested in Wheat Ridge is accused of driving drunk with two young children in the car, and police say they were able to get him off the road thanks to a concerned citizen.

According to a Wheat Ridge Police Department post, someone called 911 after seeing the man drinking at the Anderson Park pool. The man allegedly stumbled to his car and tried to drive with two children on board.

Dog running loose on I-70 rescued by good Samaritans

An image from police body camera video shows it happened on Saturday afternoon.

Officers responded to the location and pulled over the driver for a traffic stop. Police said the car was weaving back and forth along West 44th Avenue.

According to Wheat Ridge police, the man showed clear signs of intoxication and an officer found several empty Fireball shooters in the vehicle.

He was arrested under suspicion of driving under the influence. Police said he was issued a summons for DUI and child abuse, among other charges.

Police commended the initial 911 caller.

Always report suspected drunk drivers to the Wheat Ridge Police Department, a post on social media said. Thank you for helping us keep the public safe.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
GOGEBIC COUNTY, Mich. (WJMN)  A Wisconsin man will serve a minimum of nearly five years in prison after pleading guilty to selling drugs in Gogebic County.

The Ironwood Public Safety Department said in a recent release that 36-year-old Justin James ODell of Eagle River, WI, was sentenced to serve 4.5-20 years in prison for drug-related crimes.

IPSD said law enforcement first began investigating ODells activities near the end of 2023, when the Gogebic Iron Area Narcotics Team suspected him of distributing methamphetamine around Gogebic County.

Police say the investigation was furthered with the help of a confidential informant who assisted the GIANT team to purchase drugs on several occasions from ODell.

A search warrant authorized a GPS tracking unit be used to locate ODell, who was then observed travelling from Gogebic County to Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois.

When he returned to Gogebic County police arrested ODell, who was at the time in possession of 25 grams of meth and supplies often used to sell and distribute the drug.

Anyone seeking help for substance abuse issues can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or visit their website. Gogebic County has also made available this list of local resources.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJMN - UPMatters.com.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Investigations are underway as Topeka police responded to a report of gunshots Tuesday night.

On June 18th, officers from the Topeka Police Department (TPD) responded to a report of a shooting just before 11:00 p.m. near the intersection of Northeast Monroe Street and Northeast Gordon Street.

Upon arrival, officers located one individual with a gunshot wound, and they were transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital to be treated for life-threatening injuries.

A spokesman for the TPD says all involved parties have been identified and are accounted for at this time in the investigation.

The investigation is still ongoing. 27 News will provide more information as it becomes available.

If you have any information to share with police regarding these investigations, send an email to telltpd@topeka.org or call 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be made to Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or by clicking here.

For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Police searching for potentially armed and dangerous man accused of torturing a child

Kentucky State Police warned people in Bourbon, Harrison and Scott counties Tuesday that they were looking for a potentially armed and dangerous South Carolina man who is accused of torturing a child.

Nathan Ginter, 43. was last seen in the Leesburg area in Harrison County, the Cynthiana Police Department said in a Facebook post Tuesday night.

State police said in a post on the social media platform X earlier Tuesday that Ginter had fled from police, and they urged people to lock their homes and vehicles, & remain inside if possible.

They said in an update they were focusing on Stonewall Lane in Leesburg.

Ginter tortured his young child by means of water boarding and using a taser, a U.S. Marshals wanted poster states. Despite failing to show up to court for his trial, Ginter was found Guilty.

Hes wanted by the City of Columbia Police Department for failure to appear and unlawful conduct towards a child.

Ginter is described as white, with gray hair and brown eyes. He is 6-foot-4 and 185 pounds. Aliases include Nate Winter or Nathan Winter, according to the U.S. Marshals.

A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered.

Anyone with information was asked to call 877-926-8332.

The @USMarshalsHQ provided this information regarding Nathan Ginter, who is believed to be involved in the Leesburg incident earlier today. Media inquiries should be directed to the U.S. Marshals office. pic.twitter.com/l77tbKeO7O  KY State Police (@kystatepolice) June 18, 2024
Police seek help in search for missing runaway out of Roy

ROY, Utah (ABC4)  The Roy City Police Department is seeking help in the search for a missing person who reportedly ran away last week.

The last time Sariah Taha contacted anyone was Tuesday, June 11, according to officials. While officials did not share her age, they said Sariah is said to be 49 tall, weigh about 90 pounds, and have brown hair and brown eyes.

LEARN MORE: What should you do if someone goes missing?

The last time Sariah Taha contacted anyone was Tuesday, June 11, according to officials. While officials did not share her age, they said Sariah is said to be 49 tall, weigh about 90 pounds, and have brown hair and brown eyes. (Courtesy: Roy City Police Department)

Sariahs ears and nose are pierced, according to the Roy City Police Department.

Sariah ran away and has not shown up to work since the date of last contact, police said on social media. Sariah has mental health diagnosis that generates concern regarding her safety and well being.

Anyone with information is asked to reach out to Detective Pearson at 801-774-1065 or bpearson@royutah.org.

What to do when speaking to law enforcement about a missing person

More than 600,000 people go missing each year in the United States, according to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System.

Here are some suggestions to keep in mind if someone you know goes missing.

Utah officials suggest taking notes on interactions with law enforcement to keep track of details such as officer names, dates and times of interactions, the case number, and what the officers say.

When working with local law enforcement to report a missing person, it is recommended one shares as much information as possible about the missing person, including but not limited to:

Full name or nicknames.

Recent photos.

Date of birth and age at the time they disappeared.

Gender/sex.

Detailed physical description (including unique scars or tattoos).

Date of disappearance.

Medical conditions.

Last known location.

Social media accounts.

Additional resources

For more information, the Department of Public Safety has a page on its website dedicated to resources for missing persons, as well as pages to view missing persons from Utah.

Additional hotlines and resources originally compiled in a 2021 guidebook are available below:

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233

National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888

National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs): 833-872-5176

National Runaway Safeline: 800-786-2929

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

StrongHearts Native Helpline: 844-762-8483

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.
Numerous local and national media outlets have requested police video of the April 29 Charlotte shootout that left four law-enforcement officers dead.

But two of the slain officers widows and police are asking a Mecklenburg judge to deny release of any video, saying it would further traumatize victims and isnt something the public is demanding to see.

About 200 police officers and two widows of officers killed in the shootout attended an emotional court hearing June 4 stemming from a request by Queen City News, WSOC-TV and WCNC-TV asking a Mecklenburg Superior Court judge to review and release more than 1,100 law-enforcement body camera videos from the shootout.

Judge David Strickland will make a decision on whether to release all, some or none of the video in response to that petition and a similar request filed in court by The Charlotte Observer, The Assembly, The New York Times, ABC News and Spectrum News.

A U.S. marshals task force made up of federal, state and local officers was attempting to arrest Terry Hughes on felony warrants in the April 29 operation when Hughes opened fire with an AR-15 rifle.

Three task force members died: Sam Poloche and William Alden Elliott, who were state Department of Adult Correction officers, and Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas M. Tommy Weeks Jr. Officer Joshua Eyer of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, one of many who responded to help after Hughes opened fire, was also killed. Four other officers were shot and injured.

Khalif Rhodes, an attorney representing Queen City News in the June 4 hearing, said there was compelling public interest in releasing video footage to media. He said CMPDs bodyworn camera policy says recordings are for transparency and accountability.

I think any time loss of human life occurs, theres immediately and instantly public interest in that situation regardless of whether its law enforcement officers or individuals from the public, Rhodes said. The public continues to be interested in this moment.

Eyers wife, Ashley Eyer, and Weeks wife, Kelly Weeks, spoke at the June 4 hearing, saying they have been traumatized by the incident and any release of police video would be online in perpetuity. Ashley Eyer said she was confident law enforcement could review video internally to learn any necessary lessons.

CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings, the Mecklenburg district attorneys office, U.S. Attorney Dena King, the U.S. marshals, and other agencies oppose release of any police video from the incident.

In previous cases in which police video was released, like an arrest in 2023 of a couple who were sitting at a bus stop after working at a Bojangles, there were questions over conduct of officers, CMPD attorney Jessica Battle said in court.

But the April 29 shootout is different because there is no allegation of wrongdoing or friendly fire by police, she said, and the public isnt demanding to see footage.

There are more than 345 hours of footage, and the judge has the right to review all of it before deciding whether to release any. If the judge wants any video released, review and redactions could take months.

There is no compelling interest to watch a barrage of gunfire in an ambush as all of these officers who stand before you, and ... fallen officers, took on that particular day, Battle said in court June 4. ... In all my time as an attorney in the criminal justice system in Mecklenburg County, I have never seen recordings more graphic. There is nothing but death and destruction that appears in these videos.

Two of the widows of officers killed said they have received harassing letters at their homes in which an anonymous writer celebrated the deaths of their husbands.

If the media shares these graphic details from April 29, these individuals will weaponize the footage to further torment and threaten our families, Kelly Weeks said in court June 4.

Several police officers spoke in court, saying they have declined the opportunity to watch their own bodycam footage from April 29, are suffering from trauma as a result of the incident, and do not want anyone to see what they had to see that day. If video is released, they said, it would force them to re-live trauma because it would be on the news and in social media.
In more than two years of the full-scale war, Poles approach Ukrainian refugees more negatively in almost all measured aspects, except for accepting Ukrainian children to schools, according to a survey by the University of Warsaw and the University of Economics and Humanities in Warsaw published by Rzeczpospolita on June 18.

Around 4.2 million Ukrainian refugees reside in the EU under temporary protection status, of which almost 1 million took shelter in Poland.

Poles welcomed the refugees after the outbreak of the full-scale war, and Warsaw has recently extended their legal stay in the country along with various support programs.

According to the survey, the social benefits for Ukrainian refugees have always been the most problematic aspect, as the vast majority of Poles (95%) believe that they should be reduced.

Only 17% of Poles would accept Ukrainian refugees with the possibility of a long-term settlement, a decrease from 37% more than a year ago. Some 61% of the respondents want Ukrainians to return to their home country after the war.

"Such results are not surprising, they are the result of discrepancies in the perception of foreigners after a longer period of their stay in the country," Jan Brzozowski, head of the Jagiellonian Center for Migration Studies at the Jagiellonian University in Cracow, told Rzeczpospolita.

The only aspect where the attitudes remain positive is the education for Ukrainian children. Some 82% of Poles support providing education to Ukrainian children, but there is little support for teaching them based on a Ukrainian core curriculum.

Half the respondents said the children should be taught the Polish core curriculum, while 40% support a compromise between a Polish and Ukrainian education.

Around 72% of the respondents said that despite Ukraine's war with Russia, Poland should take care primarily of its own interests, namely when it comes to food trade. Only 15% hold the opposite views.

Disputes over trade, namely Ukrainian agricultural imports, have soured the relationship between Kyiv and Warsaw since 2023, leading to intermittent border blockades by Polish protesters.

Around 31% of Poles believe that Poland must definitely help Ukraine (a decrease from 62% in January 2023), while 43% "rather agree." Some 19% oppose the assistance to Ukraine, the survey shows.

There is still strong support (62%) for helping Ukraine materially, like by donating food and clothing, but even here, the numbers have been decreasing compared to previous surveys.

Such trends are not new to Poland, nor are they limited to this country. Surveys in other states that have accepted Ukrainian refugees show a similar decline in solidarity, though the overall support remains quite strong.

Russian propaganda has sought to capitalize on skepticism toward refugees in the host countries and demonize the Ukrainians, seeking to drive a wedge between local populations and the governments, the Ukraine Crisis Media Center said.

Read also: Ambassador: Poland absolutely neutral whether refugees stay or return to Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
POPE COUNTY, Ark.  Authorities in Pope County have filed charges against an inmate in the Arkansas Department of Corrections tied to the killing of a teen in 2021.

The capital murder warrant filed Tuesday in Pope County Circuit Court charges 40-year-old Stephen Karl Watson in connection with an Oct. 23, 2021, death in the county.

Pope County authorities release identity of woman found dead in wildlife refuge

An order of protection filed with the warrant redacted much of the charging and probable cause documents.

The protection order states the victim is 17 years old and that the affidavit describes prior conduct with other victims, minor children and adults. The age of the victim was the reason for the order, it states.

Woman whose body was found in Pope County wildlife refuge identified

The Pope County Sheriffs Office has earlier asked for the publics help in its investigation after a body was found in the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuges on Oct. 23, 2021. The body was later identified as 17-year-old Savana Kathleen Elliot.

Elliots death was determined to be a homicide one month after it was found, investigators said at the time.

Authorities now investigating death of teen in Pope County as homicide

Records show Watson has been held in the Arkansas Department of Corrections since July 2022 for unrelated charges.

Capital murder is a Class Y felony and can result in a sentence of life in prison or the death penalty in Arkansas.

Pope Co. deputies still seeking answers after teens body found in wildlife refuge in 2021

Officials with the Pope County Sheriffs Office confirmed Wednesday morning that Watsons charges are tied to Elliots death. Officials said Watson is scheduled for arraignment in Pope County at 9 a.m. June 21.

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 KARK.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Alexander De Croo, caretaker prime minister of Belgium in Brussels, Belgium, June 19, 2024. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

BRUSSELS, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Alexander De Croo, caretaker prime minister of Belgium, held talks here Wednesday on bilateral and China-Europe relations.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Belgian leaders, the China-Belgium all-round friendly cooperative partnership has yielded fruitful results.

He emphasized the importance of consolidating political mutual trust, deepening cooperation in such areas as economy, trade, science, technology and green initiatives, and strengthening cultural and people-to-people exchanges to foster greater development of China-Belgium relations and bring more benefits to the peoples of both countries.

Stressing that China and Belgium share common interests in opposing protectionism and safeguarding free trade, Ding expressed the hope that Belgium will play a constructive role in deepening practical cooperation between China and Europe, and in managing economic and trade differences.

For his part, De Croo emphasized that Belgium values its relationship with China and adheres to the one-China principle.

He also said Belgium is willing to enhance communication and deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields with China to boost the sustainable development of Belgium-China and Europe-China relations. 
An alleged porch pirate is in jail after a corporal recognized him from a previous incident.

On Tuesday, Lacey police officers were looking into a package theft when a corporal on the scene recognized a possible suspect. She had dealt with him a week prior at a disturbance call involving a white Ford Explorer.

After watching the theft video, caught on a Ring camera, the corporals suspicions were confirmed and she jumped into action, heading to the suspects address.

Nobody was home but as she drove away, the corporal recognized the suspects white SUV. A traffic stop was attempted but failed as the suspect sped off.

Police say that the suspect was eventually pulled over, jumping out of his SUV and running off, only to return to the car later.

He was arrested and booked upon his return for theft and driving with a suspended license.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A Franklin High School student has filed a $4.7 million lawsuit against Portland Public Schools after severing his finger in a wood shop class in 2022.

According to the lawsuit, filed May 30, students were instructed to use a pattern router to sculpt a small piece of wood as part of a larger project.

After the teacher provided a brief introduction on how to use the equipment, the routers fast whirring bit grabbed [the students] finger and mutilated, severed, and disfigured it, according to the complaint first reported by The Oregonian/OregonLive. The damage was significant, and the pain was immediate and unimaginable.

I-5 northbound lanes to remain closed due to severe road damage after propane fire

The complaint claims that the teacher did not supervise the student while he used the router, which lacked a standard safety feature that stops a bit when it encounters conductive material such as skin.

After the incident, a school nurse allegedly advised one of the students parents to take him to the nearest urgent care facility for treatment opposed to an emergency department, the lawsuit claims.

At the urgent care facility, the student and his parent were told his extreme injury obviously required surgical and other medical interventions that the facility could not provide, the complaint said, noting the delay in medical care caused further emotional distress.

I think I have PTSD: Riders, bystanders recall horror of Oaks Park ride that stalled mid-air

The student ultimately underwent a partial amputation to his index finger on his dominant hand and what is now the tip of his finger is sensitive and prone to painful abrasions, according to the complaint.

The lawsuit furthers that the student is harassed because of the injury, which is exacerbated by the teacher who refers to the student as a cautionary tale in class, the lawsuit stated.

The lawsuit seeks the $4.7 million in damages alleging the district was negligent for not providing a safe environment for students and for failing to advise the students parent to take their child to the emergency department.

Portland Public Schools declined to comment on the lawsuit.

KOIN 6 News also reached out to the students attorney but has not heard back. This story will be updated if we receive a response.

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.
Tuesday marks a year since the Titan submersible lost contact en route to the Titanics wreckage site, spurning a massive rescue op and media frenzy that ended only once its horrific fate became clearthe sub had imploded, fatally crushing all five inside.

The tragedy exposed fatal flaws with the Titans design, OceanGate CEO Stocktons Rush overconfidence in his calculations, and raised a popular questionis diving 12,500 feet to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean for a glimpse of the Titanic worth risking your life over?

For most, the answer wasand remainsa resounding no. But some of the worlds uber-wealthy are still prepared to shell out millions to take a voyage to the bottom of the sea, and at least one American wants to do it, in part, simply to prove that it can safely be done.

That man is the real-estate mogul Larry Connor, of Ohio, whos said hes determined to not let OceanGates fatal failure destroy the niche submersible business entirely. Hes the same billionaire who, at 74, has already taken a sub to the Mariana Trench and has visited International Space Station.

While others with deep pockets canceled their personal submersible orders last summer with the Florida-based Triton Submarines, its co-founder, Patrick Lahey, told The Wall Street Journal that Connor called him up within days of the Titan tragedy with different plans. He said he wanted a new sub that could do what the Titan couldntsafely make it to the Titanic and back, repeatedly.

I want to show people worldwide that while the ocean is extremely powerful, it can be wonderful and enjoyable and really kind of life-changing if you go about it the right way, Connor told the Journal.

Larry Connor. Axiom Space

To get there, Lahey said Connor plans on loading into the the Triton 4000/2 Abyssal Explorer, which is supposedly safe to dive to a depth of approximately 13,000 feet. While its promises are similar what OceanGate once claimed about the Titan, Connor and and Lahey are emphatic that their submersible is capable of making a safe voyage to the deep. And one would think it should, considering its hefty price tag of $20 million to produce80 times pricier than the $250,000 a ticket charged by Rush for a single Titan voyage.

The Titanic Sub Was Made Cheapand That May Have Sealed Its Fate

A spokesperson for Triton told CNN on Tuesday that its Titanic voyage remains in the early planning stages, and that a timeline isnt available. The company did not respond to questions sent by The Daily Beast asking about its capacity and whether tickets would be available for purchase.

Triton has emphasized it operates with much higher standards than OceanGate, which folded days after its founder died alongside a Pakistani millionaire, his teenage son, an airline executive, and a world-famous oceanographer a year ago. The submersibles listed on its website appear much more comfortable than that of the Titan, with many boasting panoramic windows and proper seatsa far cry from the infamously cold and crowded Titan, which was controlled by an Xbox controller.

Adding to Laheys credibility is a long list of receipts that displays just how long he considered Rush and OceanGate to be dangerous players in the world of submersibles. He joined others, including Rob McCallum, founder of the ultra-high-end expedition company Eyos, in expressing their concern.

In 2018, McCallum emailed Rush to skewer him for pushing through with trips to the Titanic with un-classed technology.

You are wanting to use a prototype un-classed technology in a very hostile place, McCallum wrote to Rush, according to the BBC. As much as I appreciate entrepreneurship and innovation, you are potentially putting an entire industry at risk.

After the Titan imploded, Lahey was equally critical of OceanGate. In an interview with The Sunday Times, he called Rush predatory. More recently, he told the Journal that OceanGates issues were self-inflicted, and not because submersibles themselves are inherently dangerous.

This tragedy had a chilling effect on peoples interest in these vehicles, Lahey told the Journal. It reignited old myths that only a crazy person would dive in one of these things.

For one, Lahey said the Triton 4000/2 Abyssal Explorer is made mainly of acrylic, and has been classed by third-party maritime-classification societies. The Titan was infamously unclassed.

While Connor has shown a willingness to dump millions into returning dives to the Titanic wreckage site, more casual submersible fans appear to have become more hesitant in the wake of the Titan disaster.

Officials at Tritons biggest competitor, U-Boat Worx, have laid off of 40 of its 85 employees since the implosion, reportedly brought on by a significant drop in interest in submersibles for personal use.

Chilling Tales of Past Dives to Titanic Wreckage Keep Piling Up

Possibly adding to the uneasiness from potential buyers is the unknown surrounding what exactly caused the Titan to implode. While many speculate the accident was brought on by a crack in its carbon fiber, an official investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard remained ongoing as of Tuesday, a spokesperson told The Daily Beast.

The investigation into the implosion of the Titan submersible is a complex and ongoing effort, the Coast Guard said in a statement. We are working closely with our domestic and international partners to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident.

Guardsman initially said theyd need just a year to complete their probe, but said Tuesday that there have been necessary delays because of the complications around salvaging evidence from the implosion site in the middle of the northern Atlantic Ocean.

The Coast Guard said Tuesday it plans to hold a public hearing session by the end of the year, with notice given two months in advance.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Potter County torture, murder of Galeton man set to go to trial. What we know.

More than four years after a Potter County man was tortured in his Galeton home and later killed in a remote area, a trial date has been set for two of the three people charged in his murder.

Police found the battered body of Joshua Ramos, 19, in a remote corner of Potter County in early July 2020 after Pennsylvania State Police at Coudersport received a tip about his death.

Following an investigation, state police arrested Felicia Kay Cary, Krysten Lauren Crosby, and Kyle Michael Nathan Moore, all of Galeton, and charged them with multiple felonies, including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, third-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, kidnapping and tampering with evidence.

Crosby was Ramos' girlfriend at the time, according to investigators.

Since the arrests, the case has been plagued by delays, including a court backlog triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, defense motions to split the case into three separate trials, and other factors, according to Potter County District Attorney Andy Watson.

Joshua Ramos, originally from New Jersey, was living in Galeton, Pennsylvania when he was tortured and murdered in July 2020.

Watson confirmed Crosby and Cary, who will be tried together, will go to trial this fall, with jury selection scheduled for the week of Sept. 16 and a trial set to get underway the week of Oct. 7.

Moore will be tried separately at a later date.

Related: Galeton homicide victim remembered as caring person who overcame troubled early life

Police: Ramos was tortured, killed in April 2020

Cary and Crosby lived with Ramos and several other people, including the witness, in the Galeton residence, Watson said.

Testimony by a state trooper at a preliminary hearing indicated the three suspects attacked Ramos on a day in April 2020 because he had shoved Crosby the day before.

The trio beat and tortured Ramos for more than an hour, and then forced him to lick his own blood off the floor and off the shoes of the others, according to the criminal complaint.

The suspects then loaded Ramos into a van and drove around for a while before taking him into a wooded area in Harrison Township in the northeast corner of Potter County and strangling him with a set of jumper cables, the complaint stated.

After the witness gave his statement, a state police cadaver dog located Ramos' decomposing body covered in a blanket and buried under rocks. The jumper cables were reportedly still wrapped around his neck.

Business Historic Snug Harbor, off Keuka Lake, recently opened under new management: What to know

Cary and Crosby were later arrested in Potter County, while Moore was located in Steuben County and taken into custody by U.S. marshals and New York State Police.

First-degree murder is a capital offense in Pennsylvania, and Watson said the death penalty will definitely be on the table when the suspects go to trial.

Follow Jeff Murray on Twitter @SGJeffMurray. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on Elmira Star-Gazette: Suspects in 2020 Potter County murder will go to trial this fall
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  When people think of Pride marches and festivals, especially in the Charlotte area, they usually think of the annual Charlotte Pride parade and festival, which brings hundreds of thousands of people to Uptown.

But Pride organizations, in general, are a lot more than just the displays you see at those events.

Those organizations, in small towns, are so much more: a lifeline and support system in places that are sometimes seen as anything but accepting.

People still get surprised, said Kara Murphy with Union County Pride when asked if people are surprised by the existence of the organization. Because we dont go overboard with advertising, so you dont see flyers out a lot. But it has expanded every year.

Queen City News

Queen City Pride

Union County Pride has had to additionally deal with some controversy and protests from those who believe or see the group as something that is against their beliefs.

Even if weve had a lot of negativity, weve had people show up in the last few years, and its wonderful to see, said Murphy.

Times are changing in smaller towns in the South, and a fair representation of that is in North Carolina.

In the past, the only option for some people was to leave their hometowns and move to a more accepting place. But more and more, people have decided to stay in the places they grew up in and to make a life for themselves.

Queer people are here, and we shouldnt have to leave to find acceptance in our communities, said Dylan Emory with Shelby Pride.

When we started, I think we expected a lot more pushback just locally, said Shelby Prides Hannah Wylder.

Organizers of the Cleveland County organization noted that if there is any negativity or pushback against the existence of their organization, they have not seen it.

Im happy to see how Shelby has grown in the last few decades since Ive been alive, said Melissa McCleave with Shelby Pride.

Pride organizations and events exist in all corners of the Carolinas.

Locally, besides Shelby Pride and Union County Pride, Salisbury Pride and Rock Hill Pride are other large notable groups.

There are also Pride events or organizations in Boone, Lincoln County, Mooresville, Statesville, and serving the Catawba Valley around Hickory.

Monroe man found in Gastonia with more than 3 pounds of fentanyl, charged

Those who have stayed in their hometowns and built Pride organizations locally have said that it has proven to be a learning experience, especially for those who are anti-LGBTQ.

(For) a lot of people, their exposure to Pride events and LGBTQ people is outside (the area), said Emory. But were their neighbors, were people they work with, were people they go to church with.

When you have a small town Pride, its different from like a big festival in Charlotte, said Murphy. Its a lot of person-to-person interactions, and you see a lot of little, informal networks being made.

Those with Shelby Pride and Union County Pride noted that younger generations are now more accepting of those who are LGBTQ+ and that changes are already apparent, even in areas once known for having a complicated history with civil rights.

I have a kid thats still in school, and knowing how many queer kids are still in her school, I dont think increased visibility is going to be a problem, said McCleave.

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.
Primary Of House Freedom Caucus Chair Is Still Too Close To Call

As of early Wednesday, Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) was still trailing his opponent in Tuesday's House primary as votes were being tallied. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.), who chairs the House Freedom Caucus, may not survive a too-close-to-call GOP primary.

As of early Wednesday, Good was trailing state Sen. John McGuire by 326 votes, with 98% of precincts reporting in south-central Virginias 5th District. The number of outstanding votes can tip the contest either way.

A close race doesnt automatically trigger a recount in Virginia, but the losing candidate can request one if the margin is within 1%.

The race is a test of whether the chair of the ultra-conservative group of House GOP lawmakers can withstand a Donald Trump-backed challenger and opposition from allies of ex-House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).

Good separately angered both GOP factions by endorsing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in the GOP presidential primary and then voting to oust McCarthy as speaker.

If Good loses, hell be the first Republican incumbent to go down in a contested primary this cycle after a close call for Rep. Tony Gonzales, a West Texas Republican who opposed a GOP border security bill.

Both Good and McGuire hugged Trump in the primary, but Trump made it clear he was against Good. He would stab Virginia in the back, sort of like he did with me, he told McGuires supporters during a tele-town hall on Monday.

McGuire declared victory Tuesday night even though he was up by fewer than 350 votes and potentially in recount territory. It might be days before the race is officially called.

Good, meanwhile, thanked his supporters.

The entire DC Swamp was aligned against us with over $10 million in attack ads, but with your help we were able to make this race too close to call, he posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Related...
It all started with an email last Friday. At 2:19 p.m., Mecklenburg County Commissioner Pat Cotham asked the clerk, Kristine Smith, if anyone put a Pride Month proclamation on the agenda. Nine minutes later, Cotham was told no.

Over the next hour, Cotham and Smith emailed back and forth. Cotham told Smith she had two cosponsors and asked if Smith could use last years Pride Month proclamation. Smith said she could but since the proclamation was submitted late, Chairman George Dunlap would have to approve adding the item to the agenda. Smith emailed Cotham asking if Cotham would like to call Dunlap or if she should call him. Cotham asked if Smith could call. An email from Smith to Cotham at 3:27 p.m. said Dunlap declined the request.

Due to the late time frame, he did not approve adding it to Tuesdays agenda, Smith wrote to Cotham.

So Cotham found two cosponsors and tried to get it put on the agenda. The clerk told her she could use last years proclamation and the clerk said she would ask Dunlap since it was submitted late and thats the policy.

ALSO READ: Charlotte brewery releases Pride-friendly ale

According to the Policy of the Mecklenburg County Commissioners, all agenda items have to be submitted to the clerk by 4 p.m. 11 business days prior to the boards regular meeting. Commissioners can submit items up to seven days prior to the regular business.

If the deadlines arent met, an item cant be added to the agenda without the approval of the chairman, per the policy. County commissioners can also add an item to the agenda if there is unanimous support.

The vote to add items to the agenda usually takes place during the dinner briefing in a small room behind the chamber.

When the gavel was struck Tuesday night, Cotham tried to add the item to the agenda. But her effort was blocked after Dunlap made a motion instead to go into closed session. Commissioners voted 5-4 to do so.

Charlotte Observer Reporter Mary Ramsay and Eyewitness News Government Reporter Joe Bruno waited outside the room until commissioners were finished with closed session. By the time closed session was finished, all of the time allotted for the dinner briefing meeting had surpassed and regular meeting was delayed.

RELATED: Longtime Mecklenburg County Commissioner Pat Cotham loses primary race

Cotham still tried to make the motion. Dunlap suggested she wait until the main meeting.

I believe it is an item that deserves to be discussed in public, Dunlap said.

For the first 25 minutes of their meeting, commissioners debated whether an item should be added to their meeting. Cotham put rainbow sunglasses, raised a rainbow flag and made the motion to add a pride month proclamation to the agenda.

This city is doing this. We should do our part. We have done it in the past, we should do it again, Cotham said. We have more than 100,000 residents in our county who are LGTBQ and they need to know we have their back.

Most commissioners backed the move, saying they want to show support to the LGBT community. Mecklenburg County Commissioner Vilma Leake invoked her late son.

Im the mother of one son and my son suffered in the school system, in this community, because he was gay, she said. He died in 1993 of AIDS. I have carried that burden.

Mecklenburg County Commissioner Leigh Altman called the content of the proclamation beautiful and encouraged her colleagues to add the item to the agenda.

We can unanimously put to put this on the agenda and then we are fully compliant with our rules, Commissioner Leigh Altman said. It just comes down to political will. I hope we demonstrate tonight what we have in the past, which is unanimous support for the LGBT community.

Mecklenburg County Commissioners Susan Rodriguez-McDowell and Arthur Griffin supported adding the item to the agenda but lamented what the process turned into.

RELATED: Mecklenburg County commissioners vote to receive federal funding

This really puts you in a lose-lose situation, Griffin said. To have this level of angst intention around a proclamation.

I really resent the idea of this becoming a circus, Rodriguez-McDowell said. I think this is unfortunate how this has unfolded.

Dunlap and District 1 representative Elaine Powell voted no and blocked the item from being put on the agenda. Both said they support the LGBT community and the content of the proclamation but they oppose the proper process not being followed.

This is not about whether we support it or not, Chairman Dunlap said. It is about following rules.

Powell said she would support Dunlap.

I feel like the chairman is being villainized and it really troubles me, Powell said. He doesnt deserve this. He was following process.

Later in the night, LGBT activists and leaders emotionally addressed the commission saying process shouldnt take precedent over their lives.

ALSO READ: Council approves all-electric firehouse in Steele Creek

My community will not see your rules as superseding our existence, Bethany Corrigan said. The message will be pride month is not important to you.

This proclamation may have been a piece of paper to some but it is not to us, Liz Schob said. Some of you made a choice that I hope you will think about for a long time because our community will not forget.

Despite the denial, the commissioners who voted in support of the proclamation signed it and plan to give it to LGBT activists even though it isnt in effect. Charlotte City Council will vote on a similar proclamation on Monday night.

(WATCH BELOW: Organizers scramble for kids summer camp after last-minute cancellation)
Professor Who Spied for Russia Gets Six Years in Estonian Prison

(Bloomberg) -- A former professor at an Estonian university was sentenced to six years in prison for espionage as authorities said hed been first recruited by Russian intelligence as a student in St. Petersburg three decades ago.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Viacheslav Morozov, a Russian citizen who taught at the University of Tartu as a professor of international political theory, was found guilty by Harju County Court on Tuesday. He was convicted of collecting information relevant to national security, including individuals and infrastructure.

Estonian authorities sketched out a picture of an accessible academic who parlayed his contacts and conference visits over the years into information that he sold to handlers during frequent visits to Russia for a small fee. Morozov, 51, who previously worked at St. Petersburg State University, had been an inactive agent until 2010, when he undertook additional training before moving his academic career to Estonia, the nations spy agency said.

The information he gathered gave a very adequate picture of Estonias vulnerabilities, Margo Palloson, chief of the Estonian Internal Security Service, told reporters. The intelligence could ultimately be used to plan Russian military aggression against Estonia, he said.

Conspiratorial

As European governments have increasingly moved against alleged Russian espionage networks, Estonia, which gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, has aggressively sought to uncover and prosecute individuals working for Russias security services.

The Baltic nations vocal support for Ukraine and criticism of Russia has made it a target of Moscow, which has intensified efforts against the country with espionage, cyberattacks and sabotage attempts.

Estonias prosecutor said it reached a settlement with the defense, but declined to give details. Morozov, who has been detained since January, couldnt be reached for contact.

The Estonian spy chief described Morozov as an agent who worked on his own, very careful and conspiratorial. Although he received payments, his main motivation was patriotism, according to Palloson.

While Morozov lacked high-level security access to the intelligence and defense establishment of Estonia, a member of NATO and the European Union, he benefited by a large network of contacts, the agency head said.

In a country at war, intelligence needs grow, Palloson said. He was trained and guided very thoroughly to avoid being caught.

--With assistance from Aaron Eglitis.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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Property tax measure could cost state about $1.3 billion per year, estimate shows

(Getty Images)

A proposed statewide property tax reform measure would cost the state about $1.3 billion each fiscal year, according to a state estimate.

Adam Mathiak, senior fiscal analyst for Legislative Council, provided the estimate to the Legislatures Government Finance Committee during its meeting Tuesday.

A proposed measure would end property tax based on assessed value and rely on the state to fund budgets for counties, cities and school districts.

Mathiak said the measure would cost the state $2.66 billion per biennium. When adjusting for state funding that already exists to provide property tax relief, the impact drops to $2.46 billion per biennium.

The memo from the Legislative Council said that amounts to 40.4% of the general fund budget and 12.6% of the overall state budget.

So particularly when you look at it in proportion to the general fund, a very large, large portion, Mathiak said.

Former legislator Rick Becker is leading the sponsoring committee called End Unfair Property Tax that is gathering signatures in an attempt to get the measure on the statewide ballot in November.

The committee has a June 29 deadline to submit 31,164 valid signatures from North Dakota residents to the Secretary of States Office for verification.

The full language of the measure and the title can be found on the groups website, endpropertytax.com, under the about tab.

If the measure is placed on the November ballot and is approved by voters, the measure would become effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Political subdivisions would no longer be allowed to levy property taxes beginning in 2025 payable in 2026, according to the memo.

The committee did not discuss the report.

There is no state property tax. Property taxes are generally collected by counties.

The North Dakota Association of Counties has questioned how the property tax revenue would be replaced.

Although the potential measure states the lost revenue would be replaced by State dollars, it is unclear where the legislature would find the required dollars, the association said in a resolution.

Editors note: An earlier version of this story included a photo that incorrectly identified state Sen. Kyle Davison signing the property tax petition. Davison was signing a different petition.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Its the second day of the ongoing local Providence nurse strike in which thousands of nurses from six Oregon hospitals are on the picket lines.

The strike resumed at 6 a.m. Wednesday morning after nurses spent a total of 14 hours outside the Saint Vincent, Newberg, Milwaukie, Willamette Falls, Hood River, and Medford hospitals on Tuesday with the support of family members, friends, and other union members.

Shocking amount spent on Portland metro homeless interventions

Previously, the nurses announced they submitted a 10-day notice for a three-day strike from June 18-20 demanding safe staffing levels, affordable health care, increased paid time off, and market wages.

Providence Oregon said it will not be negotiating with the nurses union until after the strike ends Friday morning. However, the hospitals are still open for patients in the meantime.

The Providence nurses ensured that the handover went well and ensured that our replacement nurses had all of the information they needed to ensure that we were able to continue providing excellent care, Jennifer Gentry, the Providence chief nursing officer, said.

Although the strike is set for only three days, Providence will not let full-time nurses back until Sunday due to the contracts made with replacement nurses that last for five days.

Future of Cascade Brewing unknown as popular barrel house closes

However, the Oregon Nurses Association said they have received a barrage of mixed messages we have heard from Providence executives.

On the other side: ONA has been clear about our intentions and timing to allow nurses and Providence to plan accordingly, the union said, citing their notice for the strike that included specific times and dates for the event. ONA nurses that are scheduled for shifts on Friday will be ready to return to work.

Nurses at 6 Providence Hospitals went on a 3-day strike, June 18, 2024 (KOIN)

Nurses at 6 Providence Hospitals went on a 3-day strike, June 18, 2024 (KOIN)

Nurses at Providence hospitals walk a picket line, June 17, 2024 (KOIN)

Emma Dancer, a Providence nurse, said the most pressing issue among her coworkers at the start of the strike was their patient-to-nurse ratio.

If they require a lift, which is a device that goes underneath them and lifts them out of bed physically, and we have to put them on the toilet, that can take 30 minutes to get a patient in and out of bed, RN Emma Dancer said. Meanwhile, I have four patients calling call lights and they also have to get up and go to the bathroom, or they need pain medication, or have heart palpitations or chest pain.

Mount St. Helens recharging after USGS records earthquake increase in 2024

Nurses are taking shifts on the picket lines. They are not getting hospital pay, and they cannot use paid time off during the strike. Instead, they can apply for money collected by their union.

Providence Portland has not joined the picket line, as their nurses previously held a strike last June and settled their contract.

Strikers will be on the picket line until 8 p.m. Wednesday and are expected to return Thursday morning.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.

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.
SAN FRANCISCO, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Two men were presumed dead after a small plane crashed Tuesday afternoon into Crescent Lake on the Kenai Peninsula, U.S. state of Alaska, state troopers said Wednesday.

Two hikers witnessed the crash and reported it to troopers Tuesday afternoon. The rescue team took a helicopter and a float plane to the area, and located debris in the lake, with no signs of survivors in the water or on the shore, troopers said.

Efforts to recover their bodies were ongoing Wednesday.

A Piper PA-18 Super Cub plane with two men aboard had been reported overdue in the area. The plane had departed from Moose Pass and was expected to return to the same area, according to troopers' spokesman Austin McDaniel.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash. 
If the bosses at Boeing intended for CEO Dave Calhouns performance during a Senate hearing to smooth over the companys abject turmoil, they were woefully mistaken.

Calhoun was forced Tuesday to answer on the record whether the embattled aerospace company had retaliated against any of the more than a dozen whistleblowers who have raised concerns over the safety standards and ethics of the company, and he gave the answer many already suspected to be true.

I know it happens, said Calhoun, adding that the company had taken action against those who had retaliated.

Senator Richard Blumenthal, who asked Calhoun the question, also read testimony from the late John Barnett, a Boeing whistleblower who was found dead in his vehicle from what police said was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. In his opening remarks, Blumenthal said that Barnett had committed suicide under the immense pressure the company put on him for raising safety claims.

Barnett, who brought up concerns about missing parts, was apparently called by one of his supervisors 19 times in one day, and was told, Im going to push you until you break.

Blumenthal recounted Barnetts testimony in which he said one of his coworkers was physically assaulted for raising concerns about safety. The senator asked whether Calhoun had followed up on this report, and the CEO said he didnt know.

Calhoun was also absolutely decimated by a surprisingly strong line of questioning from the blatantly opportunist Senator Josh Hawley, who demanded that he should resign. But after the hearing ended, Calhouns humiliation was still far from over.

Nadia Milleron, whose daughter was killed in a 2019 Boeing crash, tore into Calhoun Tuesday night during an interview on CNN for his opening apology to the family members of people who died in two 737 Max crashes. I apologize to the grief we have caused, hed said, turning to face the family members present in the Senate chamber. I want you to know we are totally committed to work focused on safety.

Milleron wasnt so convinced. It wasnt a real apology. What he was doing is he doesnt want us to know the details of how it happened, she told CNNs Abby Phillip.

Milleron recounted making eye contact with Calhoun as he gave his apology. He looked at me in the eye and he said, I am sorry, and I said, You are sorry? Are you sorry for the bombs Boeing produced that kill innocent kids in Rafah? Are you sorry for that, too?

Boeing helped to develop Israels missile defense system, and has continued to arm the Israeli Defense Forces as it wages its brutal military campaign in Gaza, which has killed more than 37,000 people, including thousands of young children.

Like how can he sleep? MIlleron asked rhetorically. This person is a psychopath. We can not have people running these companies that do not care about human life. We have to have responsible people running these companies.
Public advised to stay out of these Los Angeles County beaches

Officials are asking the public to avoid several Los Angeles County beaches due to high levels of bacteria on Tuesday.

The ocean water warnings will remain in effect beginning June 18 until further notice.

Excessive bacteria and debris can seep from nearby city streets and mountain areas and contaminate ocean waters, especially around discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers, said the L.A. County Department of Public Health.

The warning also includes any runoff that may flow onto or pond on the beach sand.

People who enter the ocean during this period could become ill, especially children, the elderly or those who are immunocompromised, officials said.

The public is asked to stay out of these L.A. County beaches:

Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach near Will Rogers Tower 18  100 yards up and down the coast from the creek

Topanga Canyon Beach in Malibu  100 yards up and down the coast from the lagoon

Sweetwater Canyon Storm Drain at Carbon Canyon Beach  The entire swim area

Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey  The entire swim area

Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach  100 yards up and down the coast from the public restrooms

Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica  100 yards up and down the coast from the pier

Trancas Creek at Zuma Beach  100 yards up and down the coast from the creek

Malibu Pier in Malibu  100 yards up and down the coast from the pier

Visitors should avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters at this time.

The health department tests ocean water bacteria levels regularly and advisories will be lifted once the levels meet standards set by the state of California.

For a map and the latest information on beach closures and warnings, check the L.A. County Department of Healths website or call the countys hotline at 1-800-525-5662.

To report a beach emergency or issue, call the L.A. County

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.
Vladimir Putin, ruler of Russia, has arrived on a state visit to Vietnam, where he plans to issue a joint statement and sign a number of bilateral documents.

Source: Russian Kremlin-aligned media outlets RIA Novosti, TASS

Details: Earlier, the press service of the Kremlin reported that the two leaders plan to discuss the development of the partnership between Moscow and Hanoi and the issues of international and regional order.

Within the course of the visit, Putin will meet with Nguyen Phu Trong, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam; To Lam, President of Vietnam; Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of Vietnam; and Tran Thanh Man, Chairperson of the Vietnamese Parliament. The visit will last for two days.

Reuters notes that the visit to Vietnam follows Hanoi avoiding a Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland last weekend while sending its deputy foreign minister to a BRICS meeting in Russia earlier last week.

The US, which improved its relations with Hanoi last year and is now Vietnams main trade partner, reacted harshly to Putins trip.

Background:

On 18 June, Russian leader Vladimir Putin landed in North Korea for talks with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un for the first time since 2000.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Hanoi for a state visit following a meeting with Kim Jong Un in North Korea, the Russian presidency said.

Putin is visiting the Vietnam capital at the invitation of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong. He travelled to Hanoi from North Korea on Wednesday evening after visiting there for a day.

On Thursday, the Russian leader will take part in a welcome ceremony at the Presidential Palace, before engaging in bilateral talks with Communist Party chief Trong. He will also meet Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Vietnamese who studied in Russia. Putin will also attend a state banquet.

Having been isolated on the international stage, Putin is seeking to shore up support from Russia's remaining allies. It remains unclear exactly how Vietnam hopes to gain from hosting a visit from Putin, who remains under an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes against Ukraine.

Commentators suggest Putin's brief tour of Vietnam and North Korea is of practical as well as symbolic importance.

"Putin's trip to Vietnam will reinvigorate their comprehensive strategic partnership and shore up economic relations through trade and investment commitments by adopting a rouble-ong currency exchange mechanism for goods and services payments," said Carl Thayer, emeritus professor of politics at the University of New South Wales in Australia and a Vietnam expert.

During his stay in Hanoi, Putin will stay at The Sofitel Metropole, a French-owned hotel. Prior to his arrival, a Russian-chartered jumbo jet shipped in limousines for Putin's use throughout his visit.
Vladimir Putins journey to Pyongyang to meet fellow dictator Kim Jong-un is emblematic of the Russian leaders isolation. Just 10 years ago, he was attending meetings of the G8 (now the G7) and rubbing shoulders with the leaders of the worlds richest nations. Now he has to go cap in hand to the pariah state of North Korea to seek both support for his war in Ukraine and the weapons to pursue it.

The old Soviet Union nurtured a partnership with North Korea, but modern Russia had kept this weird dynastic despotism at arms length until it became one of the few allies willing to send arms, along with Iran. President Putin has not visited Pyongyang in 24 years, but is now preparing to sign a new strategic partnership.

Russia has already been supplying oil to North Korea in exchange for ballistic missiles and artillery shells to be used on the battlefield in Ukraine. But this might now go further, with suggestions that Moscow would offer Pyongyang nuclear-powered submarine and satellite technology, a possibility that has understandably alarmed South Korea.

Putin has made some major strategic blunders over the past few years, but would he be unwise enough to give Kim Jong-un the wherewithal to be more threatening than he has been already. Moreover, would China let him?

It is not Putin who is the big player in this region but Xi Jinping, and he will not look kindly on the Russian leader trying to muscle in on Beijings sphere of influence. Putin may try to present himself as a major world figure; but fawning to the leader of such an odious regime merely diminishes him and his country even further than it has been already.

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Putin and Kim Jong-un appear unimpressed at North Korea concert

Vladimir Putin has signed a new defence pact with North Korea

North Koreans have given Vladimir Putin a rapturous reception at a Pyongyang gala concert.

A large crowd enthusiastically waved Russian tricolours and the blue and red of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea as a long round of synchronised clapping was directed at the Russian leader.

Putin appeared unmoved and maintained a stony expression as he received the applause alongside dignitaries and Kim Jong-un, the North Korean leader.

The concert came after the two countries signed a defence pact that includes a vow of mutual aid if either is attacked.

Kim Jong-un said that the agreement was of a peaceful and defensive nature, but added that it will become a driving force accelerating the creation of a new multipolar world.

Earlier, photos showed the streets of Pyongyang lined with portraits of Putin and Kim, with the facade of the vacant 101-story pyramid-shaped Ryugyong Hotel brightly lit with a giant message saying Welcome Putin.

05:03 PM BST

Todays live coverage has ended.

Todays live coverage has ended. Heres a roundup of the days events:

Putin praised Vietnams balanced stance on the Ukrainian war ahead of a state visit.

North Koreans gave Putin a lavish reception at a gala concert.

Putin and Kim Jong-un signed a mutual defence pact in Pyongyang.

Putin gave Kim Jong-un a Russian-built limousine, and took him for a ride with it around the North Korean capital.

The Russian president touched down in North Korea for his first state visit since 2000.

04:53 PM BST

French defence company to create joint venture with Ukraine

Thales, a leading French supplier of military equipment, has signed three deals with Ukraine including one announcing an intent to create a joint venture in the country.

The company also said it would help Ukraine cut the repair times of its electronic warfare equipment and aim to co-develop and manufacture a drone system capable of releasing munitions.

Thales said that the agreement was signed with the support of Frances ministry of the armed forces, and Ukraines ministry of strategic industries.

04:19 PM BST

Putin praises Vietnams balanced stance on the Ukraine war

Vladimir Putin has praised Vietnam and its Communist-ruled government for its balanced stance on the war in Ukraine.

In a comment piece for the Nhan Dan newspaper  the official newspaper of the Communist Party of Vietnam  Putin applauded the country for supporting a pragmatic way to solve the crisis in Ukraine.

The Russian leader also affirmed ties between the two countries, stating that they shared similar assessments about the situation in the region and pointed to several Russian energy and science initiatives to be launched in Vietnam.

The article was timed for Putins state visit to Southeast Asian country, which is due to begin late on Wednesday. It will be seen as especially important for the Russian leader, as Vietnam, unlike North Korea, has built up careful alliances with the West over past decades.

Russia wants to send the message that it has friends everywhere in the world and that the Wests effort to isolate Russia is futile, Alexander Vuving, of the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies, said.

03:55 PM BST

Inside the lonely bromance of Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un

Once a member of the G8, Vladimir Putin is now reduced to making state visits to Kim Jong-un, the eccentric dictator of a hermit state shunned by all but his Chinese patrons. But behind the scenes, Western diplomats  and spies  will not be laughing as they try to figure out how this friendship will impact security in Europe and the Pacific.

Read the full article by Senior Foreign Correspondent Roland Oliphant here.

03:35 PM BST

Russia accuses France of stoking conflict in the Caucasus

Russia has accused France of risking conflict in the Caucasus after the country signed a deal to sell artillery weapons to Armenia.

Paris is provoking another round of armed confrontation in the South Caucasus, and they are doing it in different ways. This [sale] is another step, Maria Zakharova, the Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman, said on Wednesday.

Long-standing ties between Russia and Armenia have frayed in recent years. In September 2023, Russian peacekeepers were reported to have failed to intervene during Azerbaijans offensive in the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

03:06 PM BST

Pictured: Ukrainian artillerymen in action

Artillerymen of the 13th Operative Purpose Brigade 'Khartiia' fire a 120mm mortar towards Russian troops on June 19 - Viacheslav Ratynskyi/REUTERS

Artillerymen rest in a dugout near the village of Lyptsi in the Kharkiv region, June 18 - Viacheslav Ratynskyi/REUTERS

02:45 PM BST

North Korea hosted children of Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine, Putin says

North Korea hosted children of Russian soldiers killed in Ukraine at a summer camp on the countrys eastern coast, Vladimir Putin has said.

Speaking while on a visit to the reclusive country, Putin thanked Kim Jong-un for the act of care.

I want to thank our Korean friends and personally comrade Kim Jong-un for organising the holiday of the children of killed participants of the special military operation in the Korean camp Songdowon, Putin said.

We highly value this genuine act of care and friendship, he added.

The Songdowon International Childrens Camp was reportedly opened in the 1960s to help North Korea foster international ties by hosting children from overseas.

According to Koryo Tours, a British-run travel company that specialises in North Korea, around 400 international children came to the camp every year before North Korea closed its borders during the Covid pandemic.

02:01 PM BST

Pictured: Ukrainian recruits train for war

A recruit of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade takes part in military training at a base in Kyiv on June 18 - ANATOLII STEPANOV/AFP

Ukrainian recruits practice manoeuvres near Kyiv, June 18 - ANATOLII STEPANOV/AFP

01:57 PM BST

Russia moves majority of forces on Finnish border to Ukraine

Russia has moved the majority of its forces previously stationed near Finland to Ukraine, according to Finlands national broadcaster.

Citing a military intelligence source, the broadcaster said that 80% of the [Russian] equipment and soldiers have been transferred to the war in Ukraine.

Satellite images showed major changes on the ground. For example, Russian forces stationed in a military base near Petrozavodsk in June 2023 had disappeared as of May 2024.

The report stands in contrast to Russias stated intention of reinforcing its Finnish border after the Nordic country joined Nato earlier this year.

01:41 PM BST

Watch: Putin drives Kim Jong-un around Pyongyang in gifted limousine

01:27 PM BST

Only 11% of Russians say Western sanctions have affected them, according to poll

Only 11% of Russians say that Western sanctions have personally affected them or their family, according to a poll released on Tuesday by the Moscow-based Levada Center.

The figure has been declining from a high of 30%, which was recorded in March 2022 shortly after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Despite widespread sanctions, Russias economy has remained resilient. The IMF said in April that it estimated Russias economy would grow faster than that of all other advanced nations.

The Levada Center is understood to be independent and was labelled as a foreign agent by the Kremlin in 2016.

01:04 PM BST

Pictured: Putin and Kim Jong-un in Pyongyang

Putin and Kim Jong-un pose with the new treaty signed by their respective countries - KRISTINA KORMILITSYNA/AFP

Vladimir Putin drives Kim Jong-un in a Russian Aurus limousine during their meeting in the North Korean capital - Gavriil Grigorov/Sputnik Kremlin

12:25 PM BST

Watch: North Koreans give Putin thunderous applause at a Pyongyang gala concert

Thunderous applause at the gala concert in Putin's honor in Pyongyang pic.twitter.com/609iWMt5JZ  max seddon (@maxseddon) June 19, 2024

12:11 PM BST

Ukraine detains Russian informant recruited via dating chat

Ukraine has said that it has detained a Russian informant who was recruited by Moscows agents on a dating platform.

The SBU [Ukraines security service] seized the mans phone, used by the suspect to communicate with his Russian friend and take photos of military facilities, the SBU said in a statement.

A spokesman said that Russia planned to use data provided by the informant to launch targeted strikes and assault Kharkiv, where the suspect was living.

SBU officers detained the informant red-handed when he was taking pictures of special vehicles of Ukrainian soldiers, the SBU added. The security services said the man faces eight years in prison.

Since Russia invaded in 2022, Ukrainian prosecutors have opened thousands of criminal cases into collaboration with Moscow.

11:57 AM BST

Putin praises North Korea treaty as groundbreaking

Vladimir Putin has hailed the new Russia-North Korea treaty as a groundbreaking document that will raise relations between the two countries to new levels.

I agree that this is a truly groundbreaking document that reflects the desire of the two countries not to rest on their laurels, but to bring our relations to a new qualitative level, Russias state news agency quoted Putin as saying.

11:31 AM BST

Putin calls for a review of sanctions against North Korea

Vladimir Putin has called for a review of Western sanctions against North Korea.

Speaking after the two countries signed a defence pact on Wednesday, Putin said: I am noting that the indefinite restrictive regime inspired by the US and its allies at the UN Security Council towards the DPRK should be reviewed.

According to Izvestia, a Russian newspaper, Putin stated Western countries were using propaganda cliches to hide aggressive intentions.

The Russian leader was also quoted as saying that Moscow and Pyongyang share the same view about the causes of political and military escalation in the region.

11:18 AM BST

Watch: Putin and Kim sign defence pact

11:02 AM BST

Russia, China and North Korea to discuss giving Beijing access to Sea of Japan

Russia, China and North Korea will soon begin negotiations about allowing Chinese ships to pass along the Russia-North Korea border and into the Sea of Japan.

Chinese ships currently have no access to the Sea, as the final section of the Tumen River runs along the Russia-North Korea border.

Russia did not previously support giving Chinese ships access to the sea. However, Moscow has become increasingly reliant on China due to the impact of Western sanctions.

Earlier this year, Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin said they had entered into constructive dialogue with North Korea over Tumen River access.

09:55 AM BST

Putin gives Kim a limousine

Vladimir Putin has given Kim Jong-un a Russian-built Aurus limousine, according to Russias state news agency.

Citing Yuri Ushakov, one of Putins advisors, the agency said that the limousine was given along with a tea set and an admirals sword.

According to Mr Ushakov, Kim gave Putin various works of art in return.

Aurus was founded in 2018 and specialises in producing Russian presidential and state motorcade vehicles.

09:32 AM BST

Russia and North Korea sign comprehensive strategic partnership pact

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un have signed a comprehensive strategic partnership pact, Russia media has reported.

The announcement came after the conclusion of Kim and Putins one-on-one talks, which lasted roughly two hours.

The agreement will replace Russia-North Korea treaties from 1961 and 2000-2001.

Both leaders are expected to make statements to the media shortly.

09:20 AM BST

Pictured: Aftermath of overnight drone strikes on Ukraine

Damage from a Russian drone strike on the outskirts of Lviv - Roman Baluk/REUTERS

A war crimes prosecutor works at a site of a Russian drone attack in Lviv - Roman Baluk/Reuters

09:06 AM BST

Putins next stop: Hanoi

Late on Wednesday night, Vietnam is expected to roll out the red carpet for Vladimir Putin, who will arrive fresh from his trip to North Korea.

The visit will be seen as especially important for the Russian leader, as Vietnam, unlike North Korea, has built up careful alliances with the West over past decades.

Russia wants to send the message that it has friends everywhere in the world and that the Wests effort to isolate Russia is futile, Alexander Vuving of the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies said.

The US has already condemned Hanois decision to host Putin.

08:39 AM BST

North Korea-Russia relations entering a new era

Russian state media is reporting that ties between Pyongyang and Moscow are at a historic high.

Relations between our countries are entering a new era of blossoming, which cannot be compared even with the period of Korean-Soviet relations of the last century, Kim Jong-un said, according to RIA Novosti.

The ardent friendship of the two countries will be strengthened, the North Korean leader added.

08:27 AM BST

Ukraine shoots down 19 kamikaze drones

Ukraines air force has said it shot down 19 of 21 Shahed attack drones that Russia launched at the country overnight.

The drones were reportedly intercepted over Kherson, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, Khmelnytskyi, and Lviv.

In Lviv, a 70-year-old man was hospitalised as a result of falling drone debris.

Shahed drones are Iranian in origin and are designed to loiter around a specified area until a target is located and flown into.

07:35 AM BST

Pictured: Crowds welcome Putin to Pyongyang

Crowds wave to the motorcade carrying North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un and and Russian president Vladimir Putin - GAVRIIL GRIGOROV/AFP

07:26 AM BST

One-on-one negotiations begin behind closed doors

While details of the new fundamental document remain unknown, Russia state media RIA reported that the talk ended after 1.5 hours. Afterwards, the leaders will start one-on-one negotiations that are closed to the press, writes Katy Wong.

A long conversation in a one-on-one format is expected, said Yuri Ushakov, an advisor to Putin. A signing ceremony will take place after the negotiations.

The 1961 treaty of friendship and mutual assistance between North Korea and the Soviet Union included a provision for automatic military intervention, which obligated the other party to provide military support if one was under armed attack. The bilateral treaty signed in 2000 by both countries focuses on economic, scientific and cultural cooperation.

06:55 AM BST

Putin invites Kim to visit Moscow

Putin thanked Kim for inviting him to Pyongyang and invited Kim to visit Moscow.

I am very happy about our new meeting, I hope that the next one will take place in Russia, in Moscow, Putin was cited by Russian news agencies as saying.

06:52 AM BST

Kim pledges his full support for Russia in Ukraine war

Kim has promised his full support for Russia in its war with Ukraine.

The North Korean leader vowed his countrys full support and solidarity to the Russian government, army and people in carrying out the special military operation in Ukraine to protect sovereignty, security interests and territorial integrity during his talks with Putin.

It wasnt immediately clear what support from North Korea might look like.

He also hailed Russias important role and mission in preserving the strategic stability and balance in the world.

The situation in the world is exacerbating and changing rapidly, Kim said. In this situation we intend to strengthen strategic interaction with Russia.

Putin and Kim Jong-un attend the official welcome ceremony in Kim Il Sung Square - Vladimir Smirnov

06:44 AM BST

Kim Jong-un: Russia and North Korea entering new era of prosperity

Russia and North Koreas ties are entering a period of new prosperity, Kim told Putin during their talks, according to Russian news agencies.

Relations between our countries are entering a period of new high prosperity, Russias RIA state news agency cited Kim as saying.

06:31 AM BST

Putin will sign deal to boost partnership

Putin said he will sign a new fundamental document with Kim to bolster their ties and form the basis for Russia-North Korea relations.

According to Russian news agency, RIA Novosti, the document is expected to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and North Korea.

Today, a new fundamental document has been prepared that will form the basis of our relations for the long term, Putin said.

The document is likely to cover defence matters. Russia claimed that a treaty was needed amid the changes taking place globally and that it will not target third countries.

According to news agency TASS, participants from Russia include Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, and authorities in charge of defence, natural resource, transport, railway and health.

06:24 AM BST

In pictures: Grand ceremony welcomes Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin (C-L) and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un attend a welcoming ceremony

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un (R) attend a welcoming ceremony

Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (Center-R) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) walk past children attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square

06:02 AM BST

Putin appreciates the support of North Korea

The first line from talks between Putin and Kim has emerged, with Russian state news agency RIA quoting Putin as saying:

We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction.

05:46 AM BST

Watch: Huge crowds gather to welcome Putin

An honour guard including mounted soldiers and a large crowd of civilians gathered at the square by the Taedong River. The scene included children holding balloons and giant portraits of the two leaders with national flags adorning the Grand Peoples Study Hall.

Kim and Putin then rode to the Kumsusan Palace for summit talks, Russian media said.

Kim and Putin leaving Kim Il Sung Square in an open roof car in the last hour, according to the RIA Novosti pool video. Such fast reporting of Kim's movements only happens during such foriegn visits. It honestly feels a bit weird to be so up to date with Pyongyang happenings. pic.twitter.com/2gwFcORmeD  Martyn Williams (@martyn_williams) June 19, 2024

05:25 AM BST

Ceremony and negotiations begin between Putin and Kim

The ceremony of the meeting between Putin and Kim started at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang at noon local time on Wednesday, according to Russian news agency, RIA Novosti.

Flags of Russia and North Korea, colourful balloons and huge crowds could be seen from a picture by RIA. The negotiation will take place at the Kumsusan Palace of Sun, which is also the resting place of Kim Il Sung.

#Putin was greeted by the DPRK leader at Kim-Il Sung Square in Pyongyang. pic.twitter.com/BvObHBNFZW  Tehran Times (@TehranTimes79) June 19, 2024

The list of countries willing to welcome Putin is shorter than ever, but for Kim Jong-un, this visit is a victory, said Leif-Eric Easley, professor of international studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul.

Not only does the summit upgrade North Koreas status among countries standing against the US-led international order, it also helps bolster Kims domestic legitimacy.

Putins late arrival in North Korea might result in a change in official events. According to the original plan, Putin is expected to visit the Church of the Life-Giving Trinity, the only Orthodox Christian church in North Korea after diplomatic talks.

The diplomatic talks will include topics including security and cooperation in areas of the economy, energy and transportation.

Putin and Kim Jon-un pictured together at Pyongyang Sunan International Airport - Gavriil Grigorov

04:54 AM BST

Whats on the agenda for today

The two leaders will meet for a summit, where they are expected to hold talks discussing ways to boost sanctions-busting military ties

Putin is expected to visit the Church of the Life-Giving Trinity, the only Orthodox Christian church in North Korea after diplomatic talks

Kim and Putin will reportedly spend nine hours together, with a gala concert, state reception, honour guards, document signings and a statement to the media also planned

04:26 AM BST

Putin and Kim share their inmost thoughts

The two leaders shared their pent-up inmost thoughts and agreed to develop their nations relations, North Korean state media said as Putin arrived in the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday morning.

The countries partnership is an engine for accelerating the building of a new multi-polar world and Putins visit demonstrates the invincibility and durability of their friendship and unity, The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said.

Passing through charmingly lit streets of Pyongyang at night, the top leaders exchanged their pent-up inmost thoughts and opened their minds to more surely develop the DPRK-Russia relations, KCNA reported.

Putin received a warm welcome - Gavriil Grigorov

04:24 AM BST

Whats happened so far

Putin touched down in Pyongyang around 2.45am local time on Wednesday (6.45pm BST Tuesday), with Kim greeting the Russian president at the airport. Kim waited for Putin on the tarmac and embraced him on a red carpet upon his arrival.

The two leaders then left in a limousine together to go to Kumsusan State Guest House, where Putin is staying for the duration of his visit.

Putin and Kim Jong-un walk together on the red carpet - KCNA

04:22 AM BST

Welcome

Good morning and welcome to todays live blog.

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un will meet in Pyongyang for talks as the Russian president is officially welcomed to North Korea.

We will bring you the latest news and developments as they unfold today.

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Russian leader Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un have signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, which includes a provision about mutual assistance in case of aggression against either of these states.

Source: Interfax Russia; Kremlin-aligned news agency RIA Novosti

Details: Putin said that the signed document provides, among other things, mutual assistance in case of aggression against any of the parties to this agreement.

The Kremlin leader also complained about Western countries supplying weapons to Ukraine for strikes on Russian territory. "This is a gross violation of the various international commitments undertaken by Western countries", he said.

Previously:

On the eve of his visit to North Korea, Putin had published an article in which he praised North Korea for its "firm support" of the Russians in the war against Ukraine and said he was ready to work closely with North Korea "to make international relations more democratic and stable".

On 19 June, Russian propaganda publications said North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un expressed "full support" for Russian aggression in Ukraine during the Kremlin leader's visit to North Korea.

Background:

In March, South Korea reported that North Korea has sent about 7,000 containers containing ammunition and other military equipment to Russia since last year.

South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik said that DPRK's munitions factories are working at full capacity to supply weapons to Russia.

The United States has information, confirmed by satellite imagery, that North Korea has delivered over 1,000 containers of ammunition to Russia.

In mid-June, Shin Won-sik said North Korea had sent at least 10,000 containers to Russia by sea, which could contain up to 4.8 million artillery shells.

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Putin and Kim pledge to support each other against aggression

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Russian President Vladimir Putin traveled to North Korea to visit its leader Kim Jong Un.

The two authoritarian leaders are pledging to support each other.

The U.S. and allies say theyre watching this partnership closely.

It could mean Russia gets more weapons to fight Ukraine, and North Korea gets economic aid and technological help.

Kim rolled out the red carpet for Putin in a sign of strengthening ties. The two leaders signed a pact to support each other with aid if either faces aggression.

Putins visit comes as U.S. leaders say North Korea is supplying weapons to Russia in its war in Ukraine.

These are the countries of concern, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken says Russias move to shore up support with the rogue state is reason for concern.

because this is whats keeping the war going, said Blinken.

The White House downplayed the visit. Its the first time Putins been to North Korea in 24 years.

Were not concerned about the trip, said NSC Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby says what is concerning Is the deepening relationship between these two countries.

The visit also has international allies on alert about how Russia could help North Korea.

when it comes to supporting their missile and nuclear programs, said Jens Stoltenberg NATO Secretary General.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg says what happens between Russia and North Korea impacts the world.

Everything is intertwined and therefore we need to address these challenges together, said Stoltenberg.

Stoltenberg said in response to this, NATO members will work to strengthen ties in the Asia-Pacific region at a summit in Washington next month.

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.
BEIRUT, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah pledged on Wednesday a fight "without limitations" if Israel starts a war with the militant group.

Speaking during a memorial ceremony for a Hezbollah commander killed last week by an Israeli strike, Nasrallah said his group has prepared itself "for the most difficult ways," warning that attacking the Israeli part of Galilee is "a choice that remains on the table if confrontation and tension increase."

Israel has threatened over the past days to expand its war against the Shiite militant group. On Tuesday, the Israeli military announced that it has approved "operational plans" for an offensive against Hezbollah.

In response, the Hezbollah leader said they are "not afraid of these threats," claiming that Hezbollah's missiles and rockets can cause significant damage to the Israeli side.

Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. 
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during his state visit to North Korea, Russian state media reported on Wednesday.

Putin said at the outset of the talks that this was a fundamental new document for the relationship between Russia and North Korea.

According to Russian sources, Putin also invited Kim to visit Moscow, following their last meeting in Vladivostok in September. It is Putin's first stay in the neighbouring country in 24 years.

Putin thanked his North Korean host for supporting Russian policy, including Moscow's war against Ukraine.

The United States accuses North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons and ammunition for the invasion. According to observers, the visit is aimed at securing further arms deliveries from Pyongyang for Moscow's war on Ukraine.

Broader discussions were also planned between the delegations of both countries. In addition to several joint meals, a wreath-laying ceremony and a joint concert visit were scheduled.

Relations between the two countries had already been significantly expanded in the past year, Putin said. The talks were also due to cover issues of economic cooperation and international security.

Looking back on his visit in 2000, Putin said Pyongyang had developed into a beautiful capital. At the time, he was received by Kim's father, Kim Jong Il.

Putin was welcomed on Wednesday by a cheering crowd at Kim Il Sung Square, the architectural and symbolic centre of Pyongyang.

According to the White House, the two sides agreed last year on the delivery of North Korean missiles and artillery ammunition to Russia, which Moscow uses in the war.

This is suspected to be in return for the transfer of key military technologies to Pyongyang, which is subject to international sanctions due to its nuclear programme. Both countries have denied any such cooperation.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (L) welcomes Russian President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival in Pyongyang for a state visit. -/KCNA via YNA/dpa

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square. -/Kremlin/dpa
It must be somebody pretty important in your life to warrant a personal airport pickup at 3 a.m. But thats the honor North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un paid to Vladimir Putin on Wednesday morning, greeting the Russian President on a red carpet-laid runway in the wee hours and then riding with him through Pyongyang streets festooned with roses and murals of his stout, balding guest, whom Kim had earlier hailed as an invincible comrade-in-arms.

The last time Putin visited North Korea, it was his first year as Russian President and Kim was still ensconced under a fake name at a Swiss boarding school. (Kims late dictator father, Kim Jong Il, played host instead.) Twenty-four years on and Putins return to the Hermit Kingdom comes as hes embroiled in Europes deadliest land conflict since World War II and the younger Kim wields a nuclear arsenal capable of threatening the continental U.S.

The Kremlin described the trip as a friendly state visit, though the prospect of the two leaders inking partnerships on security, food, energy, and foreign currency prompted the White House to express concern about the deepening relationship. At a joint press briefing with U.S Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg echoed those worries, particularly potential support that Russia provides to North Korea when it comes to supporting their missile and nuclear programs.

Certainly, ties between these two pariahs are stronger than any point since the fall of the Soviet Union. In a letter published in Rodong Sinmun, mouthpiece of North Koreas ruling Workers Party, Putin promised to develop trade and security systems with Pyongyang that are not controlled by the West, while promising to help his host stave off U.S. pressure, blackmail and military threats. Yuri Ushakov, Putins foreign policy aide, told Russias Tass news agency that the meeting could result in a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Washington and Seoul have accused Kim of supplying Russia with artillery, munitions, and other equipment to help Russias military navigate a shortfall over the winter, for which North Korea likely received food, fuel, and military technology in return. Both North Korea and Russia deny the existence of an arms deal, though on Wednesday Putin opened talks with Kim by gushing about Pyongyangs support including in the Ukrainian direction, according to Tass. Kim responded by congratulating Russias role in maintaining the strategic balance in the world. Meanwhile, analysis of debris in Ukraines Kharkiv region indicates North Korean short-range missiles had been deployed there.

Putins arrival also comes at a time of heightened tensions on the Korean peninsula. In recent weeks, North Korea has sent hundreds of balloons with bags of trash and excrement into the South in apparent retaliation to activists there dispatching anti-Pyongyang propaganda. Meanwhile, several North Korean soldiers were reportedly maimed or killed on Tuesday while laying landmines in the demilitarized zone (DMZ) that have separated both sides since the 1950-53 Korean War. In addition, more than 20 North Korean soldiers briefly encroached into the DMZ on Tuesday for the second time in less than two weeks but retreated following warning shots, according to South Korea.

The question is whether Kims blossoming bromance with Putin risks emboldening the North Korean despot. Historically, one of the main reasons North Korea has pursued improved relations with the U.S. was to negotiate sanctions relief. But if Russia offers a viable long-term solution for improving North Koreas economy, Kim has less of an incentive to improve relations with Washington.

Russias permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council makes this autocratic rapprochement particularly valuable for Kim. Despite previously supporting the most robust sanctions regime in history against North Korea, Russia on March 28 vetoed a U.N. resolution renewing the blocs Panel of Experts mandate to monitor sanctions enforcement. Moscow is also taking steps to permanently dismantle punitive economic measures targeting Pyongyang by calling for a sunset clause for the existing sanctions regime.

At the least, any financial or political cover that Putin can provide enables Kim to ramp up the brinkmanshipalternating threats and conciliatory gestures to eke concessionsthat has formed the bedrock of North Korean foreign policy since the days of Kims illustrious grandfather. It also eases the burden on national coffers under such strain that currently human hair for wigs and fake eyelashes accounts for 60% of declared exports to China, North Koreas largest trading partner.

This really takes some pressure off of the North Korean economy, which I expect to rebound, says Stephan Haggard, professor of Korea studies at the University of California San Diego. In effect, this is a positive shock for the country. It can churn out munitions and get food and possibly fuel in return.

From Putins perspective, any cost imposed to Western allies is a net positive. Putins message to Japan and South Korea, says Alexander Gabuev, the director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center in Berlin, is your help shredding thousands of young Russian boys on the battlefield is having a price as we can create problems for you from North Korea.

Yet budding ties may risk fissures developing between Moscow and its only backer that really matters: China. Credible reports suggest Putin originally intended to travel directly to Pyongyang at the culmination of last months visit to China but was dissuaded by nervous Beijing officials. For while both Kim and Putin both likely scroll Bond villain YouTube compilations on the can, Chinas Xi Jinping clings to a notion of the Middle Kingdom as legitimate global power, and he fears the optics of belonging to, as Gabuev puts it, a triangular Axis of Evil in the Indo-Pacific.

Moreover, China only tolerates North Koreas existenceincluding the very real threat of nuclear catastrophe just 500 miles from Beijingbecause that is deemed strategically preferable to a unified, U.S.-allied Korean peninsula on its border. Putin coming along and whipping Kim into rattling cages isnt necessarily part of Beijings plan. The Chinese are probably weary or unnerved about North Korea and Russia becoming too close, says Daniel Pinkston, an East Asia expert at Troy University in Seoul.

So while Russia and North Korea getting chummy is never a good thing, even a comprehensive strategic partnership between two of the most sanctioned countries on earth is unlikely to tip the balance in any meaningful way, and could well backfire if Beijing gets peeved. Ultimately, Authoritarian regimes are transactional, and dictators can always renege on their commitments, so theyre not credible partners, adds Pinkston. Russia and North Korea are both aggrieved, revisionist states, but they dont have shared values other than overturning the status quo.

Write to Charlie Campbell at charlie.campbell@time.com.
Putin says new document for Russia-North Korea relations in the works

A new foundational document for relations between Russia and North Korea has been prepared, Russian President Vladimir Putin said during his state visit to North Korea on Wednesday, according to Russian state media.

During their talks in Pyongyang, Putin invited ruler Kim Jong Un to visit Russia again - this time to Moscow, after the two last met in Vladivostok in September.

The visit is Putin's first to neighbouring North Korea in 24 years.

Putin thanked his host Kim for supporting Russian policy, including in Moscow's war against Ukraine. The visit is aimed at securing further arms deliveries from Pyongyang for the war against Ukraine, observers say.

The United States accuses North Korea of supplying Russia with weapons and ammunition for the invasion.

According to the White House, the two sides agreed last year on the delivery of North Korean missiles and artillery ammunition to Russia, which Moscow uses in the war.

This is suspected to be in return for the transfer of key military technologies to Pyongyang, which is subject to international sanctions due to its nuclear programme. Both countries have denied any such cooperation.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (R) hugs Russian President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival at the airport for his two day state visit. -/Kremlin/dpa

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (R) welcomes Russian President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival in Pyongyang for a state visit. -/KCNA via YNA/dpa
Putin and Kim shook hands and hugged as if they were good friends greeting each other after a long absence - Kristina Kormilitsyna/via REUTERS

Vladimir Putin has driven Kim Jung-un around in a Russian Rolls Royce after signing a military pact in a Soviet-style meeting of dictators.

Videos released by Russian media showed Putin climbing into the drivers seat of the black Aurus limousine that he had just gifted the North Korean leader.

He then beckoned Kim to join him in the front, before pulling off for a drive along the smooth roads that sweep past the manicured lawns of the Kumsusan state residence in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital.

Footage showed Kim smiling and pointing at the dashboard and the Russian president gesticulating as he drove.

Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin walk past children attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang - CREDIT: Vladimir SMIRNOV / POOL / AFP

Vladimir Putin drives Kim Jong Un in a Russian Aurus limousine during their meeting in Pyongyang - CREDIT: Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP

Earlier, the leaders held two hours of talks at Kims residence before signing the military agreement that positions Russia and North Korea at the centre of an anti-West axis.

The Russian president said the breakthrough document raised relations to a new level.

It provides for the provision of mutual assistance in the event of aggression against one of the parties to this agreement, he said.

It was not clear what kind of assistance the deal involved.

The pact came in the middle of a carefully choreographed state visit with strong echoes of Soviet history.

Kim Jong Un driving the Russian Aurus limousine

A convoy transports Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin through the Arch of Triumph - Gavriil GRIGOROV / POOL / AFP

Indeed, Kim said Moscow and Pyongyangs fiery friendship is now even closer than during Soviet times.

This was Putins first visit to North Korea since 2000, a trip that highlights the importance he places on North Korea as an ally against the United States.

The new Russia-North Korea comprehensive strategic agreement upgrades a friendship deal he had signed with Kims dictator father in 2001.

Putin flew into Pyongyang before dawn on Wednesday after an eight-hour flight from Moscow, six time zones behind North Korea.

The 71-year-old looked weary listening to translations during the talks. One video caught him playing with a microphone and momentarily closing his eyes, his head drooping slightly.

Kim had greeted Putin earlier in the day in central Pyongyang on a red carpet laid out in front of thousands of cheering schoolchildren.

A crowd welcoming Putin at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang - Gavriil GRIGOROV / POOL / AFP

The heavily orchestrated greeting was held in a square ringed by heavy Soviet-style buildings and adorned with Russian and North Korean flags and portraits of the two men.

A slogan emblazoned across one of the buildings said: North Korean-Russian friendship will be eternal.

The two men shook hands and hugged as a brass military band played.

Russian President Vladimir Putin (L) shakes hands with North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) after a signing ceremony - Kristina Kormilitsyna / POOL / AFP

Putin took a high-powered delegation to Pyongyang, including five government ministers and several officials charged with running logistics for his war in Ukraine.

Footage showed them lining up as the Russian president introduced them briefly to Kim, who shook their hands and looked at them indifferently.

Kim and Putin then stood as the band started up again, dozens of soldiers goose-stepped past in a swift military parade and the school children released colourful balloons into the air.

Other videos showed rows of North Korean generals obediently clapping and waving flags, with the two leaders standing in the back of an open-topped Mercedes limousine lapping up the applause.

Kim said Moscow and Pyongyang's "fiery friendship" is now even closer than during Soviet times - Gavriil Grigorov/via REUTERS

Later, Kim gifted Putin various paintings of the Russian leader, while Putin gave the North Korean leader a tea set, an admirals dagger and the Aurus limousine.

Russia started producing the Aurus car in 2018 as its answer to the Rolls Royce. Each has a retail price of around 250,000 and only 115 have reportedly been sold.

Putin then headed to a gala concert with Kim where he received thunderous applause from unsmiling grey-suited North Korean bureaucrats and teenagers all dressed in red t-shirts and red baseball caps.

Russian journalists have reported that they were flown to North Korea 12 hours ahead of the meeting and then given a tour of Pyongyang as it prepared for Putins arrival.

They were told that 400 portraits of Putin had been hung around the city to commemorate the first visit by an international leader since Xi Jinping, the president of China, visited in 2019.

A motorcade of Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un drives on a street during their meeting in Pyongyang - Shutterstock

The two leaders at the welcoming ceremony - Getty Images

When a Russian journalist asked why there were no people on the streets, one of the North Korean minders replied: Its just very hot.

The journalists also reported that they were told to write that North Korea is a normal country and that America controls the internet.

Putin was due to dine with Kim at a state banquet and listen to a concert before arriving in Communist-run Vietnam for a two-day visit, which will focus on trade and economic, scientific, technological and humanitarian areas.

It will be Putins fifth overseas trip since he won a presidential election in March, highlighting his emphasis on building up international relations to bolster Russias position around its war in Ukraine.

At their meeting, Putin thanked Kim for sending weapons to Russia and confirmed that the Kremlin was supplying technical support to North Korea - which Western analysts have said is used to accelerate their spy satellite and ballistic missile programmes.

We highly appreciate your consistent and unwavering support for Russian policy, including in the Ukrainian direction, said Putin.

North Korea has become a vital arms supplier for the Kremlin since Kim visited Russia last year, sending 5 million artillery shells and dozens of missiles to bolster the forces against Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un attend an official welcoming ceremony

Artyom Lukin, of Russias Far Eastern Federal University, said that, depending on the exact wording of the pact, it could be a dramatic shift in the entire strategic situation in north-east Asia.

He said if Russia provides Pyongyang with security guarantees, then [North Korea] becomes an analogue of Belarus, Russias main ally in Eastern Europe.

It will be an open challenge to the system of US-centric alliances in north-east Asia. And, of course, it will be a huge problem for Seoul and Tokyo.

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Insights from The Economist, Le Monde, and the Council on Foreign Relations

The News

Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed a defense pact on Wednesday as the Russian president received a lavish welcome in Pyongyang, his first visit to North Korea in 24 years.

There are few details of the deal, but the pair are understood to have inked a mutual assistance agreement if either country is faced with external aggression, as well as a pledge to boost cooperation on health, medical education, and science, according to Russian news agencies.







SIGNALS

Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories.

Putin will be wary of rankling Seoul and Beijing

Sources: The Economist, Time

Even as Putin strengthens ties with Pyongyang, he will be keen to keep the door open with neighboring South Korea  Russias fifth-largest export destination before its full-scale invasion of Ukraine  The Economist argued. Another neighbor looms even larger: Big Brother is always watching from Beijing, a North Korea expert told the newspaper. Putin was reportedly discouraged by Chinese officials from traveling directly to Pyongyang following his visit to Beijing last month, perhaps because Xi Jinping fears the optics of belonging to a triangular axis of evil, Time magazines former China Bureau Chief wrote  and ultimately, China is the only backer that really matters to Moscow.

China may feel conflicted about the Russia-North Korea alliance

Source: Le Monde

North Korea taking steps to diversify its alliances represents a double-edged sword for China: While somewhat relieved of its responsibility to provide Pyongyang with international cover, as well as goods and food, Beijing has also found its influence diminished, Le Mondes Beijing correspondent argued. Precisely how North Korea may further future expansion of its nuclear missile program is slipping further from Chinese control, creating major uncertainty, a nuclear specialist at the Carnegie China research center told the publication.

Any Russian support for Pyongyangs nuclear ambitions may not last

Sources: Center for Strategic and International Studies, Council on Foreign Relations

Of most concern about Russia-North Korean military cooperation is what Putin might be giving Kim to modernize his nuclear arsenal, the former director for Asian Affairs on the US National Security Council wrote in the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Such moves would indeed turbo charge the threat North Korea poses to South Korea, the US, and Japan, but much depends on what happens in Ukraine: A swift end to the war would see Putin less dependent on North Korea for munitions, and therefore less willing to share sensitive technologies, a columnist noted in the Council on Foreign Relations.
(Getty Images)

BNSF Railway Co. must pay the Swinomish tribe $394 million for violating the terms of an agreement that allowed the railroad to run trains across a strip of the tribes land in northwest Washington, a federal judge ruled Monday.

U.S. District Judge Robert Lasnik ruled last year against the railroad for trespassing between 2012 and 2021 as it sent trains carrying crude oil from North Dakota through the Swinomish Reservation, en route to refineries near Anacortes.

Determining what amount of money the railroad owed the tribe was left for another phase of the proceedings, which included a bench trial Lasnik oversaw earlier this month.

The tribe argued that the unauthorized rail traffic resulted in around $450 million in ill-gotten gains that should be handed over  or disgorged  to remedy the situation.

BNSF contended the tribe was entitled to a fraction of that total because the violation involved just a three-quarter mile segment along a 1,500-mile route, and because of various costs that needed to be weighed against profits.

We knew that we were in the right, and we are thankful that the Court has ruled that BNSF must give up the wrongful profits it earned from trespassing on our Reservation again and again for nearly a decade, Steve Edwards, chairman of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, said in a statement.

We know that this is a large amount of money, he added. But that just reflects the enormous wrongful profits that BNSF gained by using the Tribes land day after day, week after week, year after year over our objections.

A BNSF spokesperson said Monday that the railroad had no comment on the ruling. Edwards said the tribe expects BNSF to appeal the latest ruling in the case to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

The lawsuit dates back to 2015 and hinges on an easement agreement the railroad and the tribe brokered in the 1990s following earlier litigation. The Seattle and Northern Railroad originally built tracks through the area, which is along Padilla Bay, in 1889.

Under the easement agreement, BNSF and the tribe agreed that only one train with no more than 25 cars should travel in each direction across the Swinomish lands each day, and that the number of trains and cars shall not be increased unless required by shipper needs.

Lasnik ruled last year that the railroad willfully, consciously, and knowingly exceeded the limitations between September 2012 and May 2021, as BNSF sent 100-car trains carrying crude oil through the corridor.

Crude oil shipments by rail surged in the U.S. between 2008 and 2014, as hydraulic fracturing raised oil production to levels that exceeded pipeline capacity.

This trend stirred widespread safety concerns, particularly after a train carrying crude oil crashed and exploded in 2013 in Lac-Megantic, Quebec, leaving 47 people dead.

A BNSF train transporting crude oil derailed near Custer, Washington, north of Bellingham, in 2020, with cars leaking and catching fire.

Figures in court documents indicate that upwards of a quarter million tanker cars carrying oil crossed through the Swinomish easement during the period covered by the lawsuit.

Washington State Standard is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Washington State Standard maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Bill Lucia for questions: info@washingtonstatestandard.com. Follow Washington State Standard on Facebook and X.

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Yesterday, a federal judge in Seattle ruled that BNSF Railway must pay the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community nearly $400 million for trespassing on the tribes reservation for nearly a decade.

In April 2015, the tribe filed suit against BNSF, the largest freight railroad in the United States, for violating the terms of an easement agreement it signed in 1991 that set a limit of no more than 25 cars passing its reservation per day.

But beginning in 2012, BNSF began exceeding that allowance without notifying the tribe, running at least six 100-car trains traveling in each direction across the tribes reservation per week, according to the lawsuit.

In an eighteen-page ruling issued on June 17, District Court Judge Robert Lasnik ordered that BNSF Railway pay total trespass profits of $394 million to the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community for trespassing between 2012 and 2021.

We know that this is a large amount of money, Steve Edwards, Chairman of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, said in a statement. But that just reflects the enormous wrongful profits that BNSF gained by using the tribes land day after day, week after week, year after year over our objections. When there are these kinds of profits to be gained, the only way to deter future wrongdoing is to do exactly what the Court did today  make the trespasser give up the money it gained by trespassing.

Chairman Edwards added that the tribe first tried to resolve its conflict with BNSF out of court through formal letters to the company, as well as tribal staff and tribal lawyers personally meeting with BNSF representatives multiple times from 2012 to 2015.

But in the end none of that mattered, Chairman Edwards said. BNSF kept running its oil trains and despite the letters and despite the meetings, BNSF told the tribe in early 2015 that it was just going to keep running those 100-car trains across the reservation. Thats when we knew we had to ask the Federal Court to protect our Tribal rights in our reservation lands.

The United States District Court in Seattle ruled early in the Tribes 2015 lawsuit that BNSF neither apprised the tribe of its cargo nor obtained the tribes written agreement to an increase in the number of trains and the number of cars in those trains.

But BNSF argued that its obligations to its shippers superseded its obligation to the tribe under the easement agreement. The District Court issued an order upholding the tribes rights in 2017, and BNSF filed an appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. In 2020, the Court of Appeals rejected BNSFs argument.

Chairman Edwards said that he expects BNSF to appeal this weeks decision, as they have before in this case, But we have faith and we look forward to defending Judge Lasniks decision to protect our homeland.

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
BECKLEY, WV (WVNS)  On Tuesday, June 18, 2024 former Republican state senator Daniel Hall took the oath of office for Raleigh County Commission.

Hall takes over the seat left vacant following commissioner Dave Tolliver unexpected death on June 3, 2024.

Commission President Greg Duckworth and Commissioner Linda Epling appointed Hall, who had challenged Tolliver in the last primary, coming in second on the primary GOP ticket.

He was on that ballot two years ago and received several, several votes from Raleigh County, so the precedent of him is going to bring a lot, President Duckworth said following the regular meeting. Hes got a lot of knowledge. Hes got a lot of contacts. Hes been involved in the public for years, and were just really excited to work with him.

Hall is from Tollivers district and will be appear on the general ballot as the GOP candidate in November, squaring off against a Democratic candidate for Tollivers seat.

Ten interesting facts you may not have known about West Virginia

Hall said on Tuesday he plans to carry out Tollivers legacy of infrastructure development.

I want to continue the work Commissioner Tolliver worked on. I mean, he was working on water and sewer projects around the county, along with a variety of other things, but I think its important, said Commissioner Hall. The citizens of Raleigh County elected him two years ago, and I think we owe it to those citizens, and to Dave Tolliver, to continue the work that he was doing.

Business development and continued support for the countys fire department is high on Halls agenda, he said.

Like his predecessor, Commissioner Hall said he also has an interest in the Raleigh County Parks and Recreation Department.

The military history of The Greenbrier

Lake Stephens is on my end of the county and its a great place that people from all over this county love to go visit and use as a public park, Commissioner Hall said. I think resources need to continue to be placed there, to improve that.

Commissioner Hall said he is also invested in finding a solution to a growing number of stray dogs in Raleigh County.

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.
by Ronald Njoroge

TURKANA, Kenya, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Amid the humming noise of her sewing machines, Shukurani Hota takes orders from customers eager to acquire the latest African dresses at a market in the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya's northwestern Turkana County.

Hota is among thousands of displaced persons who have found refuge at the refugee camp, Kenya's second-largest, hosting about 288,000 refugees from nine countries, including South Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

By handmaking African dresses in the camp, this 40-year-old mother from the DRC has provided a relatively comfortable life for her two children since fleeing civil strife in her homeland in 2012.

During a recent interview with Xinhua at the Kakuma refugee camp, Hota said that the camp, established in 1992, encourages people to engage in income-generating activities to supplement the monthly stipend provided by well-wishers.

"My plan is to expand the business so that I can provide employment opportunities to more than the current four workers I have engaged," Hota said.

Nanduri Sateesh, the head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR-Kenya) sub-office in Kakuma, said that enterprises based in the refugee camps provide economic benefits to both refugees and host communities.

The UNHCR is collaborating with other development partners to provide seed capital to aspiring people based on their business plans, he said, adding that training in administration, management and financial literacy is provided to ensure the sustainability of businesses established at the refugee camp.

Isaac Niyongere, a 29-year-old Burundian refugee and father of one, also plies his trade in the camp near the Kenya-South Sudan border. He has established a business selling clothes to fellow refugees. "I sell most of my merchandise during the weekends when most refugees are not working," Niyongere said.

Vumilia Kiza Saidi, a 36-year-old refugee from the DRC, has established a hairdressing business specializing in hair and beauty products since 2010. She was inspired to start the business when she realized that women were forced to travel long distances outside the camp for hair and beauty services.

"The large population in the refugee camp has provided the customer base required to sustain my business, which has employed two refugees and one Kenyan," Saidi said. 
(Bloomberg) -- Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in for another term as South Africas president, three weeks after elections stripped his party of its parliamentary majority and forced it into a power-sharing alliance with long-time rivals.

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Ramaphosa took the oath of office before Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Nelson Mandela amphitheater at the 111-year-old Union Buildings in the capital, Pretoria, on Wednesday. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Democratic Republic of Congo leader Felix Tshisekedi and Zimbabwes Emmerson Mnangagwa were among the dignitaries at the ceremony, which was followed by a 21-gun salute and an air force flyover.

The resilience of our democracy has once more been tested, and the people have spoken loudly that they choose peace and democracy over conflict, Ramaphosa said in his inauguration address. The voters of South Africa did not give any single political party the full mandate to govern our country alone. They have directed us to work together to address their plight and realize their aspirations.

The African National Congress, which had ruled the country outright since apartheid ended three decades ago, garnered just over 40% of the vote in May 29 elections, with millions of its supporters either backing a splinter party led by its former leader Jacob Zuma or staying away from the polls amid widespread disgruntlement over high levels of poverty, unemployment and crime.

The main opposition Democratic Alliance and four other parties have agreed to the ANCs proposal to join a so-called government of national unity and back the 71-year-old Ramaphosas reappointment. In exchange, they will be allocated posts in the cabinet and parliament, though details still have to be negotiated.

Participants in the new administration have agreed to prioritize growing the economy, attracting more investment, instituting structural reforms and ensuring state finances are sustainably managed.

The people of South Africa have stressed they are impatient with political bickering and the endless blame game amongst politicians and political parties, Ramaphosa said. I will work with everyone to reach out and work with every political party and sector that is willing to contribute to finding solutions.

The rand traded at a level stronger than 18 per dollar for the first time in more than 10 months and the benchmark equity index in Johannesburg jumped to a record high on Wednesday. The rally has been spurred by expectations that the inclusion of business-friendly parties in the government will add impetus to reforms Ramaphosa initiated to tackle power shortages, logistics snarl-ups and other impediments to growth.

Most of South Africas economic challenges, including potential fiscal or balance of payments vulnerabilities, ultimately stem from insufficient steady-state GDP growth, said Ivailo Vesselinov, chief strategist at Emso Asset Management. Any signs from the new administration of plans to reinvigorate structural reforms in key sectors such as energy or logistics would likely be perceived very favorably by investors.

During his previous five-year term Ramaphosa, drew criticism for consulting extensively before acting. While his opponents have derided him as indecisive, hes adamant his approach wont change.

Those who would like a president that is dictatorial who is adventurous, who is reckless, will not find that in me, he told young professionals last month. In me they will find a president who wants to consult. All these processes have often been seen as, he is weak, he is not decisive. I am decisive, but I want to take people along with.

While Ramaphosa has previously pledged to trim the size of his cabinet to cut costs, he may be forced to backtrack to accommodate both politically powerful individuals within the ANC and its new partners.

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He will also likely have to make policy concessions, with the DA having raised objections to the ANCs plans to institute an uncosted national health insurance plan, and differing with it on matters of foreign policy.

The president will have to manage the government of national unity taking into account the interests of his constituency within the ANC, its partners and the broader public, said Susan Booysen, director of research at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection.

South Africa is really moving into this with minimal on-the-ground preparation and justification, she said. The devil is going to be in the exact detail. Once cabinet is announced some basic agreement will have to be reached on policy positions and on what the red-line issues will be, Booysen said.

You can follow Bloombergs reporting on Africa on WhatsApp. Sign up here.

--With assistance from Ntando Thukwana, Arijit Ghosh and Ana Monteiro.

(Updates with Ramaphosas comments from third paragraph.)

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Remy Ma's son may spend time behind bars like she did in 2008.

Jayson Scott, the Terror Squad alum's oldest child, was reportedly arrested and detained on Tuesday for the murder of a man in Queens. He and a co-conspirator were charged with multiple charges over the 2021 incident.

Remy Ma has two children from two different relationships; however, given their estrangement while she was in prison, it is unclear if she has a close relationship with her oldest son.

Remy Ma's Son Charged With First & Second Degree Murder

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According to new reports, Remy Ma's son has been charged with first-degree murder for shooting Darius Guillebeaux in June 2021. Other charges against him include second-degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon, and reckless endangerment.

Scott was arrested alongside Richard Swygert, who was involved in the deadly shooting. The co-conspirator received first-degree murder, first-degree reckless endangerment, and two counts of criminal possession of weapon charges.

Authorities claimed Scott and Swygert opened fire on Guillebeaux at 148th St. and Rockaway Blvd. in South Jamaica. The victim was shot multiple times in his head and chest, grave injuries he did not recover from despite being timely rushed to a nearby hospital.

Scott and Swygert were allegedly contracted to kill Guillebeaux, who, per Page Six, was 47 when he died and had a dark history with the law. The victim served four years in state prison for selling drugs and robbery before his release in 2017.

Inside Remy Ma's Relationship With Her Son

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As stated, Remy Ma's relationship with her son was obscure compared to her close bond with her second child, daughter Reminisce. The mother-of-two addressed their dynamic in a 2016 episode of "Love and Hip Hop."

In the episode, Scott was honored to walk his mother down the aisle during her second wedding to rapper Papoose. The duo had an intimate conversation before she said her vows and Remy Ma was happy to reconnect with her son.

"I'm very, very proud of you, and I love the bond that we're creating. I feel like we're getting back to where we was before I went away for that long, long period of time," she said, recalling her six-year incarceration.

Remy Ma confessed that she thought Scott would "hate" her for not fulfilling her motherly duties in prison. However, having her freedom did not seem to improve their bond.

Remy Ma Skipped Her Son's Baby Shower

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In early 2020, Scott and his girlfriend, Diamond, welcomed their daughter, Milani Amora Scott. Although the proud parents hosted a baby shower the year before, Remy Ma was significantly absent from the attendees.

The rapper's absence must have hurt; however, Diamond brushed it off in a classy retort on social media.

"His mother didn't show up, and it's not the end of the world, nor is it hate towards her. We gonna continue to stand tall and be the best parents to our child," she reportedly wrote.

Remy Ma welcomed her son in 2000 and once addressed his birth in an emotional interview for Oprah magazine, per Pop Sugar. She compared her first pregnancy to her second, claiming she avoided having another child.

"I have an 18-year-old son, and I put off having a second baby for many years. I was in my mid-30s and still putting it off, not realizing my body was not the same body I had when I had my son Jayson when I was 20," the media personality explained.

The Terror Squad Alum Struggled To Have A Second Child

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In the emotional interview, Remy Ma revealed she wanted her second pregnancy arc to be removed from "Love & Hip Hop: New York" because of her fertility struggles.

However, she chose to show her vulnerabilities to inspire women in similar situations. She confessed:

"I was scared, and I was embarrassed. But [my husband] was 150 percent right. So many women have commented on my Instagram or come up to me to say, 'Just hearing your words, seeing what you went through, I finally felt like it wasn't just me.'"

"'I felt like less than a woman, and I felt like there was no one I could talk to about it, but you opened that door, so thank you,'" Remy Ma continued. She and Papoose welcomed their daughter, Reminisce, on December 14, 2018.

Remy Ma Playfully Turned The Clock Back To 35

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A year before her son's arrest on murder charges, The Blast reported that Remy Ma turned back the clock to 35. She marked her 43rd birthday with a fun Prohibition-themed party at Casa De Lobo in Jersey City.

During the bash, the reality TV star humorously declared that she was eight years younger. "I appreciate all of you coming to my 35th birthday party, she said. I don't fking count the ones I was in prison, and I don't count the ones during COVID."

As stated, Remy Ma spent time in prison for her involvement in a dispute that tragically resulted in the shooting of a woman outside a Manhattan nightspot. She regained her freedom in 2014 after serving six out of her eight-year sentence.
Wednesday marks Juneteenth, or June 19th, a Federal holiday known as Freedom Day or Black Independence Day.

In Texas, the holiday is called Emancipation Day, as Union General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation on June 19, 1865.

This occurred about a month after the final Confederate surrender of the Civil War.

This is the fourth year Juneteenth is an official holiday, with President Joe Biden signing the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law in 2021.

The Ravens got into the holiday spirit with a couple of different posts on their official social media accounts.

The first is a graphic of Ravens players standing before the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. monument in Washington, D.C.

The players are in front of a famous King quote which resides on the north wall of the monument:

We are determined here in Montgomery to work and fight until justice runs down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream. 

The quote is from Montgomery, Alabama, December 5, 1955 and the graphic fittingly portrays water falling down in force.

The second post re-posts what the Ravens published last year on Juneteenth, a Baltimore cityscape graphic.

The Baltimore skyline provides the backdrop, with the words Juneteenth, celebrate freedom providing the main focus.

A small Ravens logo resides above the three words.

Kudos to the Ravens for creating these graphics and publishing them.

Story originally appeared on Ravens Wire
If we really want people living on the moon, we need an astronaut health database

Scientists have created the first-ever aerospace medicine biobank to help outline the impact spaceflight has on astronauts' health. This repository integrates data and samples from various missions, including those performed by SpaceX and NASA , enabling researchers to compare and standardize space medicine findings and apply their results to future missions.

"This represents a breakthrough in the study of human adaptation and life in space ," said Guy Trudel, one of the scientists behind the study and a professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, in a press release .

It is widely recognized that even short trips into space , and therefore into a microgravity environment, can trigger a wide array of genes that regulate key cellular pathways in the body. This leads to fundamental cellular, molecular and physiological changes in the bodies of astronauts  for instance, astronauts can develop space anemia  though these changes typically reverse within a few months of returning to Earth.

Still, as spaceflight becomes increasingly prevalent with the rise of commercial cosmic trips and planned endeavors to have astronauts journey to the moon and beyond, countless studies have begun to explore how microgravity affects the human body. However, there is a lack of standardization across fields. "Current frameworks for aerospace medicine are nascent and lag far behind advancements in precision medicine on Earth, underscoring the need for rapid development of space medicine databases, tools, and protocols," the team wrote in the new study.

Related: 12 space medicine findings from 2023 that could help astronauts reach Mars one day

This led to the creation of the Space Omics and Medical Atlas (SOMA), a collection of data and samples from various space missions that aims to help standardize biological measurements and data sharing for clinical, cellular and genetic research.

"Applying the same core protocols in the sample collection, processing and analysis across multiple missions will allow us to validate and compare our findings with other investigators and space agencies/companies around the world," according to SOMA's website.

With 2,911 samples banked already, the "Atlas" is set to improve profiling for both short- and long-term space flights, enhancing health monitoring, risk reduction and countermeasures for upcoming lunar, Mars and deep-space missions.

The database has already revealed common bodily changes astronauts have experienced across missions, such as shifts in immune system activity, changes in DNA and alterations in gene activity. The team highlights that SOMA represents a more than tenfold increase in publicly available human space biology data. "It is meant to help keep astronauts and space travelers alive and healthy," the researchers stated in the press release.

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Even better, its implications, while aimed at the stars , will also have tangible impacts here on Earth . "Since many of the changes in astronauts in space resemble those of people who are immobile in bed, these studies can be clinically relevant," said Trudel. "The data are therefore important for future space exploration while also providing a correlation to people on Earth with limited mobility or who are bedridden before their rehabilitation."
The relationship between Church of Jesus Christ and Community of Christ  and what it means going forward

Attendees sing as a devotional is held at the Kirtland Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Sunday, June 16, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

KIRTLAND, Ohio  Members of different faith backgrounds, including Community of Christ and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, came together to celebrate their shared religious heritage in the Kirtland Temple on June 16.

The gathering of close to 300 listened to a tender devotional message that centered on the rich history and power of the Kirtland Temple. The program concluded with everyone standing together to sing a rousing rendition of the hymn, The Spirit of God.

In his closing prayer, Seth Bryant, a historian and Community of Christ member, petitioned for the Lord to turn hearts, provide peace and let the story continue in this holy house.

The devotional and hymn fest marked the end of the 59th Mormon History Association Conference and many left the event dabbing cheeks with tissues.

CeliAnne Coates, of the B.H. Roberts Foundation, prays after singing The Spirit of God during a devotional held at the Kirtland Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Sunday, June 16, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

I couldnt imagine a better way or better place to end the conference, said David Howlett, an eighth-generation Community of Christ member who serves as this years MHA president.

Patrick Mason, a Latter-day Saint and professor of religious studies and history at Utah State University, agreed.

For me, it was incredibly powerful to have so many people from so many different faith backgrounds all united together worshipping in this place, he said. The Kirtland Temple is not just a historic site, but a place where people still come to feel the spirit of God every day, and that was felt in real abundance today.

The interfaith devotional fostered unity among members of both faiths and provided hope for continued friendship and mutual respect in Kirtland, also known as the City of Faith and Beauty.

Why buy so high?

Elder Kyle S. McKay, a General Authority Seventy who serves as the church historian and recorder for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, opened the MHA conference on June 13 with a keynote speech that offered perspective on why the church would spend such a large sum of money  $192.5 million  for the Kirtland Temple and other historic properties.

The answer is rooted in Latter-day Saint doctrine and sacred events of one day.

I cannot think of a single day during the ongoing Restoration when there was more restored than on April 3, 1836, he said.

The Kirtland Temple stands in Kirtland, Ohio, on Sunday, June 16, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

According to Latter-day Saints doctrine, on that date, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were visited by Jesus Christ and experienced visions where priesthood keys were conveyed by ancient prophets Moses, Elias and Elijah.

The keys of the gathering of Israel: Offering the gospel of Jesus Christ to Gods children on both sides of the veil who have not made crucial covenants with God nor received their essential ordinances.

The dispensation of the gospel of Abraham: Restoring covenants and blessings promised to Abraham, including the promise of eternal life and exaltation.

The sealing power: Enabling the eternal binding of relationships and the legitimacy of priesthood ordinances, ensuring they are recognized in the hereafter.

There is little we do in this church of lasting significance that is not done under the authority of the keys restored on April 3, 1836, in the Kirtland Temple, said Elder McKay, also referencing the April 2024 general conference message of President Russell M. Nelson.

Please understand, the church did not consider itself deficient or incomplete without these historic properties, but these things do provide a magnificent reminder of Gods dealings with His people; they are sacred evidence of the greatest Restoration ever.

Expression of gratitude

In 1959, President David O. McKay, who served as president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1951 to 1970, coined the phrase Every member a missionary.

During his remarks on June 13, Elder McKay said Latter-day Saints who visited the Kirtland Temple over the years seemed to have heard, Every member a negotiator.

Many felt moved and appointed to ask every Community of Christ tour guide, When are you going to sell us the Kirtland Temple? Or worse, When are you going to give us back our temple? said Elder McKay, whose next words drew a hearty applause.

Elder Kyle S. McKay, right, a General Authority Seventy who serves as Church historian and recorder, shakes hands with David Howlett, president of the Mormon History Association and a member of Community of Christ, after the opening keynote of the Mormon History Association Conference held at the Cleveland Marriott East hotel in Warrensville Heights, Ohio on Thursday, June 13, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

To the hundreds of patient Community of Christ tour guides over the years, especially (Community of Christ apostle) Lachlan Mackay, I offer a genuine expression of gratitude for graciously enduring these inquiries from people who, for the most part, were full of good intent but not so full of good manners.

Elder McKay concluded his remarks by thanking historians and scholars for their role in developing friendships between the two faiths.

It is this body  historians  who were responsible for thawing the frost that existed between Community of Christ and the Church of Jesus Christ, he said. Im so grateful for that thaw, and that we continue to get warmer and warmer, and I pray that it will continue for ever and ever.

A tale of two women

During his keynote remarks, Elder McKay related the story of two women  Nancy Cervi, a Community of Christ pastor, and Sister Sue Grow, who was serving as a Latter-day Saint missionary in Kirtland when the transaction was announced.

A few days after the announcement, Elder McKay visited the Kirtland Temple and neighboring visitors center, where he encountered Sister Grow and Cervi.

Cervi was in the process of removing items at the center. She was gracious but seemed uncomfortable. That changed when Sister Grow embraced and wept with her.

I was deeply moved and taught, Elder McKay said. Here was Sue Grow with a historic reason to rejoice, setting it aside so that she could mourn with a dear friend whose cause to mourn was on some level Sues cause to rejoice. It was beautiful, even sacred.

A sign for the Kirtland branch of Community of Christ stands across the street from the Kirtland Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Friday, June 14, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

Two weeks later, when the temple reopened for tours, Cervi participated in a tour for local civic and church leaders. Not only did she attend the tour, she kindly offered her expertise as an on-the-spot clarifier of facts and questions put to her about the temple, Elder McKay said.

The two women exemplified mutual respect and Christlike empathy, the church historian said.

I continue to marvel at these two women, he said. I aspire to the attributes of these two women and invite you to become like Nancy Cervi and Sue Grow, promising and testifying that in so becoming, you will become like Jesus.

Anything you need, we will help you

One of the presenters at the MHA conference was Karl R. Anderson, a historian and longtime Latter-day Saint leader in northeastern Ohio. He said when the Church of Jesus Christ returned to Kirtland the late 1970s, it began meeting with leaders of Community of Christ and city officials to develop friendships.

We felt that had to be a background for whatever we did in Kirtland  the community and Community of Christ, he said.

Less than a decade later, when an arson fire destroyed the new Latter-day Saint meetinghouse, Community of Christ was the first to offer assistance.

Karl Ricks Anderson, a former church leader in Ohio and an independent historian, speaks during a session titled From Cursed and Scourged with a Sore Scourge to Polished and Refined According to (Gods) Word: The Rise of Historic Kirtland in Our Time as part of the Mormon History Association Conference held at the Cleveland Marriott East hotel in Warrensville Heights, Ohio, on Friday, June 14, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

Anything you need, we will help you, a Community of Christ leader told Anderson.

Community of Christ allowed The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to hold meetings in its buildings while the meetinghouse was rebuilt.

They are such good, Christian people, Anderson said. They have a real love for the temple, and that wont go away. They know how much we love it and how we treat it. Personal relationships always triumph in the end. Its just an adjustment.

Hope in a shared heritage

When Howlett learned about the March 5 transaction, his reaction was shock and devastation.

It was a mix of sadness, anger and resignation, all those things. I cared very much about the historic sites, said the Community of Christ scholar who spent parts of 12 summers in Kirtland. Its also personally meaningful to me. Part of my story, and my ancestors stories, are tied up in these geographies and places.

He mourned the idea of the next Community of Christ generation not having the same experiences in Kirtland that shaped his life. But hes hopeful his church will find new creative ways to carry on.

David Howlett, president of the Mormon History Association and a member of Community of Christ, speaks before the opening keynote of the Mormon History Association Conference held at the Cleveland Marriott East hotel in Warrensville Heights, Ohio on Thursday, June 13, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

Were still invested in the stories and people will want to return to these sites, he said. The agreement between the two churches grants Community of Christ access six times a year. We want to make sure were intentional about making sure we coordinate that and find ways to make these sites accessible to our people. So were grateful for that opportunity.

Barbara Walden, a historian and executive director of Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation, was the featured speaker in the June 16 devotional. She shared history and personal, life-changing memories of serving in the Kirtland Temple, as well as the grief she felt upon learning of the transaction. She finds hope and solace in the shared heritage and love of the historic sites by both faiths, as evidenced by the friendship and mutual respect among historians and scholars.

These relationships grow and expand, she said. I love that we are exchanging knowledge and learning from the knowledge and research of our friends and they are learning from ours. Its a beautiful thing that together we share a love of our church heritage.

Barbara Walden, historian and executive director of the Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation, speaks during a devotional held at the Kirtland Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Sunday, June 16, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

Before the MHA conference on June 13, Casey Griffiths, a Latter-day Saint and BYU professor of church history and doctrine, accompanied a Community of Christ friend to the Kirtland Temple for her first visit since The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint acquired the temple and other historic properties on March 5.

But when they arrived, the friend was too emotional to enter.

Its a raw feeling for them, just like it would be for us, Griffiths said. I feel like the missionaries and everybody that has been a part of the process has been super gracious and kind, especially toward the feelings of members of Community of Christ. I hope the temple continues to be, under our stewardship, exactly what it was under their stewardship, which is this great commonality, this great place where everybody can come and feel like they have a home.

Continued friendship

Over the years, Community of Christ has offered time and space in the Kirtland Temple to others, including The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to hold private devotionals, which has blessed the church, Elder McKay said.

We have very much appreciated our relationship with Community of Christ over the years. Our feelings of gratitude toward them have heightened since the acquisition of the Kirtland Temple and other properties, Elder McKay said. Were so grateful for how they have cared for them over the years, that now allows us to assume responsibility and carry on what theyve been doing so well for so long.

The sun sets on the Kirtland Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Friday, June 14, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

The churchs relationship with Community of Christ has been one of great respect and acknowledgement of their important role in preserving these historic properties, said Elder Hugo E. Martinez, a General Authority Seventy and assistant executive director of the Church History Department.

They were always very welcoming to us when we came in, he said. We wish to come together at this time and continue to share this space just like they shared with us. Its a good relationship now, and we hope that it continues to be better.

President Scott Barrick and his wife, Sister Shauna Barrick, who serve as directors of the churchs Ohio Historic Sites, said the church will continue several traditions and activities involving Community of Christ.

The first Saturday of each month, Community of Christ holds a pancake breakfast and donates the proceeds to charity. The Barricks take all the missionaries serving locally and make a contribution, which has been a fun activity.

Other traditions with Community of Christ are expected to continue. Each summer on Emma Smiths birthday  July 10  the Church of Jesus Christ and Community of Christ hold an event in which they sing hymns from Emma Smiths hymnbooks. That has been a wonderful thing, President Barrick said.

Seth Bryant, of the John Whitmer Historical Association, speaks during a tour of the Kirtland Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Sunday, June 16, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News

The two faiths participate in a community Thanksgiving service and hold a Christmas Eve service in the Kirtland Temple.

We look forward to being involved with Community of Christ for a lot of time to come, President Barrick said.

The church and Community of Christ will also continue to be members of a ministerial alliance in Kirtland with other faiths and community leaders. Joe and Sarah Jackson, local Latter-day Saints who participate in the ministerial alliance, said those in the alliance collaborate on several service projects a year that benefit all in the community.

This is a Zion community, Joe Jackson said. Its one heart, one mind. It doesnt say that you have to be one religion. ... We realize in the community that the temple is a shared space.

Barbara Walden, historian and executive director of the Community of Christ Historic Sites Foundation, speaks during a tour of the Kirtland Temple in Kirtland, Ohio, on Sunday, June 16, 2024. | Isaac Hale, Deseret News
Relatives of people killed in 2 Boeing Max crashes ask the US to fine the company $24.8 billion

Families of some of the people who died in two Boeing 737 Max crashes are asking federal officials to fine Boeing $24.8 billion and move quickly to prosecute the company on a criminal charge that was set aside three years ago.

A lawyer for the families said in a letter Wednesday to the Justice Department that a large fine is justified because Boeings crime is the deadliest corporate crime in U.S. history.

The lawyer, Paul Cassell, also wrote that the government should prosecute officials who were leading Boeing at the time of the crashes in 2018 and 2019, including then-CEO Dennis Muilenburg. In all, 346 people were killed in the crashes.

The first crash occurred when a Boeing 737 Max 8 operated by Indonesias Lion Air plunged into the Java Sea in October 2018  and the second in March 2019, when an Ethiopian Airlines 737 Max 8 crashed nearly straight down into a field six minutes after takeoff from Addis Ababa.

The push by the families comes as the Justice Department considers whether to revive a dormant criminal charge of fraud against Boeing. Last month, prosecutors determined that the company violated a 2021 settlement that protected the company from being prosecuted for allegedly misleading regulators who approved the Max.

The Justice Department has until July 7 to tell a federal judge in Texas whether it will revive the case. During a hearing Tuesday, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., said there is mounting evidence that the company should be prosecuted.

Boeing did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The company previously has said it met its obligations under the 2021 settlement.

The Justice Department opened an investigation into Boeing after a door plug blew off a 737 Max during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. That incident led to increased scrutiny of the company and outgoing CEO David Calhoun, who defended Boeings safety record during Tuesdays Senate hearing.
Remembering the horrors of Paradise: Getting 'ahead of the fire' for Arizona's fire season

Ruidoso is a beautiful village, natures playground the city boasts, nestled in New Mexicos Sierra Blanca mountains.

Ponderosa pine and Douglas fir dominate Lincoln National Forests canopy. State Highway 48 cuts through the forest and divides the town, forcing some residents to the towns main drag to visit or escape.

Six years ago, reporters for The Arizona Republic found Ruidoso had one of the highest wildfire risks of any small town in the West, higher than Paradise, California, where 85 people died in 2018s Camp Fire.

The horror of Paradise compelled Republic journalists to ask if we could predict and encourage others to prevent a similar catastrophe.

A firefighter helps ignite a controlled burn in an attempt to halt the Camp Fire in Butte County on Nov. 14, 2018.

That project rushed back to mind this week as more than 8,000 people fled Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs as two fires from the Mescalero Apache Reservation converged. The South Fork Fire and Salt Fire consumed 20,000 acres in two days.

Its like being in a live horror movie, former Ruidoso News reporter Pam Bonner told Mike Smith of the Carlsbad Current-Argus. "We sit here and wait, wondering if we have a home to go back to."

One 60-year-old man is dead and more than 1,400 structures had been lost as of Wednesday.

The two wildfires were like a pair of tongs, New Mexico Forestry spokesperson George Ducker told CNN, and Ruidoso is in the middle.

A large plume of smoke rises from the South Fork Fire in this photo taken by Ruidoso resident Kassi McTeigue on Monday, June 17, 2024. Authorities would evacuate the village around 8 p.m. that same day.

The work in 2018 of those Republic journalists, published as Ahead of the Fire, is a living resource guide and a warning to check rural road access and exits, forest health, wildland intrusions by developers and emergency alert systems.

Along with Ruidoso, The Republic found heightened wildfire risks in places such as Pine, Arizona; Idyllwild and Hayfork in California; Leavenworth, Washington; Riggins, Idaho; Cascade, Colorado; the Rogue Valley of Oregon; and outside Glacier National Park in Montana. The Republic found that more than 500 small communities in the West were at greater risk than Paradise.

The newsroom began with two questions: Could reporters isolate and measure Paradises risks? Could they map those risks in cities and towns across 760 million acres of the American West? Reporters Ren Larson and Dennis Wagner tackled those challenges.

They started with the U.S. Forest Services Wildfire Hazard Potential (WHP) data, which scores every 18-acre parcel of land in the country. The higher the score, the higher the probability the place will experience a catastrophic wildfire.

Paradise was more than trees and buildings so journalists added human variables to the review. The analysis included layers for residents age, disabilities, road access, housing types, English proficiency and whether cell phones could receive text alerts.

To give the analysis heart and soul as well as site and sound, reporters and photographers traveled to eight states to hear from residents and town leaders.

Their stories provided urgency ahead of the next fire season.

The value of Ahead of the Fire became clear when experts in the field asked to review The Republics analysis and invited reporters to discuss their findings. At the request of state and federal officials, The Republic shared its data and methodology with scientists at CalFire and the National Weather Service.

Red Flag Warnings, based on similar data, are issued throughout fire season to alert millions of people before the next disaster. The Republics interactive map of risk areas is a public resource.

Ahead of the Fire is the result of curiosity and commitment. It comes from a desire to save lives, improve policy and deepen the understanding of our world.

Its not too late to do something about the next wildfire.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Remembering the horrors of Paradise help ready us for fire season
Jayson "Jace" Scott was arrested in connection with the June 2021 killing of Darius Guillebeaux

Aaron J. Thornton/WireImage Remy Ma, February 2024

Remy Mas 23-year-old son, Jayson "Jace" Scott, has been arrested and charged with murder in a 2021 killing, New York City police say.

Authorities told PEOPLE in a statement that Scott and another suspect were taken into custody on Tuesday, June 18, in connection with the shooting death of Darius Guillebeaux, 47, on June 7, 2021.

The charges were first reported by New York TV station WNYW and The New York Post,



Related: Remy Ma and Fat Joe to Guest Host 'The Wendy Williams Show' During Thanksgiving Week

In their statement to PEOPLE, the New York Police Department said Scott is charged with first- and second-degree murder as well as reckless endangerment in the first degree and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree.

The other suspect, 22-year-old Richard Swygert, was also charged with first-degree murder, reckless endangerment in the first degree and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, police said.

The NYPD told PEOPLE that the 2021 shooting was in Queens. At the time, officers responded to a 911 call of a male shot at the intersection of 148 Street and Rockaway Boulevard on June 7, 2021.



Brian Stukes/Getty Remy Ma, August 2023

"Upon arrival, officers observed a 47-year-old male, unconscious and unresponsive, with multiple gunshot wounds to the head and chest, police said. EMS responded to the location and transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased.

The victim was later identified as Guillebeaux.

It's unclear if either Scott or Swygert have retained attorneys who can comment on their behalf. An arraignment is expected Wednesday, WNYW reported.

On Wednesday afternoon, a rep for Ma, whose real name is Reminisce Smith, provided the following statement to PEOPLE.

"As many have heard, Remy Mas son, Jayson Scott was recently arrested and very serious unfounded allegations have been made. Remy Ma wished to address this situation personally, but has been strongly advised by our office not to say anything publicly  as most people in this situation are, as the case is still active. To be clear, Jayson Scott is innocent and Remy Ma is committed to proving his innocence and fully supporting her child during this time."



"We stand by Jaysons innocence and hope the NYPD will conduct a complete and thorough investigation to reveal the truth. This has undoubtedly been a trying time for Remy Ma and her family. While she sincerely appreciates the love and support she has received, we kindly ask that her privacy be respected as their legal team works to prove Jaysons innocence."



Related: 'Love & Hip Hop' 's Remy Ma and Papoose Expecting Second Child Together: 'Real Soon'

In a 2018 Instagram post, the Grammy nominated hip-hop artist expressed her pride in her children.

My baby forever! My Punkin My 1st born. My son. I had him when I was so young & thought I knew it all, the Lean Back rapper wrote at the time, along with family photos. We basically grew up together.

Scott has also periodically appeared with his mom on reality TV.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Ma, whose career launched as a member of the Terror Squad rap group in 1998 with artists like Fat Joe and Big Pun, has faced her own legal troubles in the past.

She spent six years in prison for a 2007 shooting in New York where she was found guilty on assault, weapons and attempted coercion charges.



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Read the original article on People.
U.S. Rep. Tom Cole, 75, has defeated political newcomer Paul Bondar in one of Oklahoma's most hotly contested races in the 2024 primaries.

Cole secured the Republican bid for the U.S. House District 4 seat with 65% of the vote. The Associated Press called the race at 7:33 p.m.

Cole will face the winner of the Democratic primary in the general election this fall, getting the chance to continue his current 21-year stay in the office.

More: 2024 Oklahoma Primary Election Results

U.S. Rep. Tom Cole, R-Okla., was approved as chairman of the House Appropriations Committee by the GOP Steering Committee on Tuesday. In this photo, he leaves during a break in a House Republican caucus meeting at the Longworth House Office Building in 2023.

District 4 represents southern Oklahoma, including Midwest City, Norman, and Moore as well as a large part of southern Oklahoma City. Its population of over 800,000 is mostly urban.

Endorsed by Donald Trump, Cole supports gun rights and national security. He has represented District 4 since 2003. Cole has graduate degrees in British history from The University of Oklahoma and Yale. Cole is married and has one son. He was born in Shreveport, LA.

Cole defeated Republican opponents Nick Hankins, Andrew Hayes, Paul Bondar, and Rick Whitebear Harris.

On Nov. 5, he will face the winner of the Democratic primary, Mary Brannon.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma election results: Tom Cole defeats Paul Bondar for District 4
ABIDJAN, June 18 (Xinhua) -- At least 11 people were killed in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire's economic capital, in torrential rains late last week, authorities said.

"The provisional report shows 11 victims dead and identified, several others not yet identified and seven injured noted and taken into account," said Mysss Belmonde Dogo, the minister of National Cohesion, Solidarity and the Fight against Poverty.

The provisional toll "is already heavy," he said, adding that the government is mobilizing resources to provide support to the affected families next week.

Between Thursday and Saturday, torrential rains fell on several localities in Cote d'Ivoire, including Abidjan, where several neighborhoods were under water, over 300 people were taken to safety and 18 others were evacuated to health centers.

Cote d'Ivoire has been experiencing a long rainy season this year, with the peak in June, according to local media reports. 
Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) has won the GOP nomination for his House seat representing Oklahomas 4th Congressional District, according to Decision Desk HQ.

Cole, who has held his House seat for more than 20 years, held off a few primary challengers in the contest, most notably businessman Paul Bondar. Cole is the chair of the House Appropriations Committee.

Bondar had outraised Cole in the primary thanks to a $5 million loan that he gave his own campaign, accounting for most of the money he took in. He ran in the primary to the right as a strong supporter of former President Trump, calling for tough immigration policy, ending additional financial support for Ukraine and impeaching President Biden.

Cole, who has been a supporter of additional support for Ukraine, emphasized his strong ties to his state and experience compared to Bondar, who only moved to Oklahoma from Texas relatively recently.

Cole will be the favorite to prevail in the November general election in a solidly conservative district.

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.
New report on Ukrainian schools in liberated territories: libraries destroyed, rooms looted, and lack of shelters

The Kharkiv Institute of Social Research and the charity East SOS visited 24 schools in Ukraines liberated territories to assess their condition. They found that the library stocks in 10 schools had been damaged or destroyed; 13 schools had been looted by the Russians; and none of the schools had a bomb shelter in good repair.

Source: a report by the NGO Kharkiv Institute of Social Research and the charity East SOS

The researchers visited 24 schools  four in each of Donetsk, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, Sumy, Kherson and Mykolaiv oblasts. 16 of them had been under occupation.

Russian military personnel had been stationed in six of the schools and had looted property and damaged premises. Russian military equipment had been stationed in four of the schools. One school had been used as a hospital by the Russians.

Quote: "The Russians entered the school and stayed for three days," a representative of the management team of one of the schools in Sumy Oblast said. "They couldn't break the main entrance doors down, but they broke in through the emergency exit on the first floor. They moved into the classrooms and smashed the corners of the walls. I couldn't believe that people were incapable of opening windows, but they just broke them. They were also in the canteen, left their 'calling cards' in all the offices, and stole three laptops."

The occupying authorities forced teachers to cooperate with them, and parents were forced to send their children to be taught according to the Russian curriculum.

"From an interview with the management of one of the educational institutions in Kharkiv Oblast, it was clear that under occupation, the school did not operate but received accreditation to conduct educational activities in the Russian Federation, starting the education process in September 2022. Some teachers and headteachers from other educational institutions transferred to this school; after liberation, they were held to account," the report says.

How the schools facilities were used (in absolute values)

infographic: EAST-SOS

Buildings in 23 of the 24 schools had been damaged in combat action. The schools management rated the severity of the damage at 6 out of 10.

At 10 of the 24 schools, library stocks had been partially or completely destroyed. At 13 schools, the Russians had stolen technical devices and equipment and damaged classrooms, furniture, windows, doors, and more.

During the occupation, two-thirds of the schools had delivered lessons online according to the Ukrainian education programme. Now they all work remotely or provide blended learning.

Extracurricular classes are offered in 15 out of 24 schools. The students attend most of them in person (sports, choreography, drama clubs, etc.).

As of the beginning of the academic year 2023-2024, each school had 390 students on average. In 15 of the schools, the number of students has decreased by approximately 7% compared with the end of the previous school year.

The majority of students did not evacuate (66%). Almost a third had to evacuate (14% moved within Ukraine and 19% went abroad). Less than 1% remain in temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

The schools in Donetsk and Mykolaiv oblasts have the highest numbers of internally displaced students  between 30% and 51%.

Half of the institutions are fully staffed, while the others have one or two vacancies.

Most of the schools have heating, cold water and electricity, but 14 of them have problems with hot water, eight have no heating, and six have problems with electricity or have no cold water supply.

PHOTO: EAST-SOS

None of the schools have a shelter in good repair, equipped with everything needed to be comfortable during air raids. There is no shelter at all in nine of the schools. 15 have shelters but they need a major overhaul.

Only six of the schools visited are in a satisfactory condition.

The researchers rated the psycho-emotional state of the teachers and students at 6.5 out of 10. They also listed the following problems:

lack of psychologists in the communities;

irregular visits by mobile mental health support teams from humanitarian organisations;

the need for long-term systematic psychological support, especially for teachers from liberated communities;

requests to work with an external specialist rather than a school counsellor.

The research has shown how the war is impacting the mental health of teachers from frontline territories.

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CACHE COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  An amateur rock climber was rescued from Logan Canyon on Tuesday afternoon  and the rescue efforts caused a road to temporarily be shut down.

According to the Cache County Sheriffs Office, a 28-year-old man was hiking when he began climbing up the steep, rocky cliffs that were above the south side of the trail he was on.

READ NEXT: Three injured in stabbing incident at TRAX train station in South Salt Lake

The man was climbing the cliffs alone, and officials said he did not have the proper equipment or experience. The Cache County Sheriffs Office said the man became trapped after he climbed into a steep area.

It appeared he did not have the necessary rock climbing experience and rock climbing gear to climb back down without falling down the steep mountainside cliffs and placing himself in additional and likely serious bodily injury or death, Lt. Roy Hall of the Cache County Sheriffs Office said in a press release.

Deputies from the sheriffs office, as well as members of a search and rescue team responded to assist with the rescue efforts.

Officials determined that the safest rescue option was to use the Department of Safety helicopter to lift the man off the side of the mountain. In order to assist with the rescue, the Utah Highway Patrol briefly shut down U.S. Highway 89 in Logan Canyon.

The climber was taken to the flat ground of the Stokes Nature Trail, and officials said he was not injured.

The Cache County Sheriffs Office is using this rescue to remind Utahns that they should only climb in areas where they have the proper experience and equipment to climb safely.

Safety and wise judgment should always be a top priority when rock climbing, the sheriffs office 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 ABC4 Utah.
Richard Loccke, a labor attorney who was a major, behind-the-scenes force in shaping law enforcement policies at the municipal, county and state levels, died Monday at his home in Rutherford. He was 79.

Loccke and his small Hackensack firm represented nearly every North Jersey police union at one time, securing favorable contracts and large raises for cops while often drawing the weary ire of municipal officials who saw their budgets stretched.

Tall with a baritone voice, Loccke was seen as a forceful presence at the bargaining table by clients and opponents alike. David Jones, the former president of the State Troopers Fraternal Association who worked closely with Loccke, once likened him to boxer Mike Tyson. Loccke told NorthJersey.com in a 2005 profile that he wouldnt characterize his negotiating style as overly aggressive.

I've never intimidated anybody," he said with a laugh. "I've never exploited anyone."

Richard Loccke, labor attorney in his Hackensack office in 2005.

The grandson of Sicilian immigrants, Loccke grew up in Rutherford and stayed there almost his entire life. He graduated from Rutgers University and then Seton Hall Law School in 1970. After a brief stint with an insurance company, Loccke went into labor law with his partner, Manuel Correia.

One of Locckes biggest coups came in 1977 when he negotiated a contract for the then-Bergen County Police that guaranteed the officers' pay would always be within 5% of the highest-paid local police force in the county. By 2003, 80% of the 82-member force were making more than $100,000, excluding overtime.

Local police unions started using Loccke and his firm almost exclusively for contract negotiations, which allowed him to play one town off another. When police in one town received a generous raise, Loccke would argue before arbitrators that police in a neighboring town deserved the same creating a ripple effect across the region.

Mike Kelly: In NYC congestion pricing fight, suburban voters trumped infrastructure investment

If municipal officials argued that they could not afford generous raises, Loccke would often bring newspaper clippings to a bargaining session of expensive public works projects whether it was a new playground or road project. If the town could afford those big-ticket items, certainly it can afford raises for its cops, hed argue.

Richard Loccke, labor attorney in his Hackensack office in 2005

Former Bogota Mayor Steve Lonegan, a budget hawk who often negotiated with Loccke, said the attorney used state binding arbitration laws to his advantage to secure the best deals. "He's a tough opponent," Lonegan said in 2005. "That's his job. It's to do the best he can for his bargaining unit, and I respect him for it."

Loccke is survived by his partner, Ann Twomey, his son, Richard Edward Loccke and wife Susan of Ridgewood, his daughter, Christina Loccke and husband Tom Johnson of Montclair. He also has seven grandchildren, Olivia, Juliana, Andrew, Mirabelle, Claudette, Spencer and Cora.

Visitation will be at Calhoun Mania Funeral Home from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday and from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday. A memorial service will be held at the Church of St. Mary in Rutherford on Friday at 9:30 a.m. followed by a burial at George Washington Cemetery.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Richard Loccke, labor lawyer who represented NJ police, dies
A 9-1-1 crew member who died last month while driving home after a 14-hour work day was killed by a heart attack, and not by drowsy driving, according to an autopsy report.

Rico Priem, 66, was driving home around 4:30 a.m. when his SUV drifted off the 57 freeway, hit a tree, went up an embankment, and flipped over.

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His death came amid negotiations between the studios and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, and touched on a sensitive issue in those talks. The union has raised concerns that long hours can put workers at risk of falling asleep when they drive home, and has pushed for shorter days and longer rest breaks.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiners office released the autopsy report to Variety on Tuesday. The report found that Priem died of a sudden cardiac dysfunction, and that there were no fatal traumatic injuries.

The toxicology report was negative for alcohol or other drugs.

Priem was working on 9-1-1, the ABC series, which wrapped at 4:06 a.m. on Saturday, May 11. He was headed home about 20 minutes later when he crashed near Via Verde Drive in San Dimas.

Priem was a grip and a member of Local 80, whose TV credits included Major Crimes, Deadwood, and Six Feet Under. He was on the verge of retirement when he died, according to a GoFundMe that raised more than $60,000.

IATSE expressed its sadness in the wake of his death, and underscored its commitment to safety.

20th Television, which produces the show, also extended its condolences, as did the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, which bargains on behalf of the studios.

The union contract provides that if a worker is too tired to drive home, he or she can ask for a ride or a hotel stay, and the employer will endeavor to provide it and not retaliate against the worker for making the request.

In its talks with the studios, the union has raised concern about Fraturdays  a shift that starts on Friday afternoon and runs into Saturday morning.

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Rifts seem to appear between Israel's political and military leadership over conduct of the Gaza war

Palestinians displaced by the Israeli air and ground offensive on the Gaza Strip walk through a makeshift tent camp in Khan Younis, Gaza, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi)

JERUSALEM (AP)  The Israeli armys chief spokesman on Wednesday appeared to question the stated goal of destroying the Hamas militant group in Gaza in a rare public rift between the countrys political and military leadership.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted Israel will pursue the fight against Hamas, the group running the besieged Gaza Strip, until its military and governing capabilities in the Palestinian territory are eliminated. But with the war now in its ninth month, frustration has been mounting with no clear end or postwar plan in sight.

This business of destroying Hamas, making Hamas disappear  its simply throwing sand in the eyes of the public, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the military spokesperson, told Israels Channel 13 TV. Hamas is an idea, Hamas is a party. Its rooted in the hearts of the people  whoever thinks we can eliminate Hamas is wrong.

Netanyahus office responded by saying that the country's security Cabinet, chaired by the prime minister, "has defined the destruction of Hamas military and governing capabilities as one of the goals of the war. The Israeli military, of course, is committed to this.

The military quickly issued a clarification, saying it was committed to achieving the goals of the war as defined by the Cabinet" and that it has been working on this "throughout the war, day and night, and will continue to do so.

Hagaris comments, it said, referred to the destruction of Hamas as an ideology and an idea, and this was said by him very clearly and explicitly," the military statement added. "Any other claim is taking things out of context.

There have already been open signs of discontent over the handling of the war by Netanyahus government, a coalition that includes right-wing hard-liners who oppose any kind of settlement with Hamas. Months of internationally mediated truce talks, including a proposal floated this month by President Joe Biden, have stalled.

Benny Gantz, a former military chief and centrist politician, withdrew from Netanyahus war Cabinet earlier this month, citing frustration over the prime ministers conduct of the war.

And early this week, Netanyahu expressed displeasure with the armys decision to declare a tactical pause in the southern Gaza city of Rafah to help deliver humanitarian aid to the besieged territory. An aide said Netanyahu was caught off guard by the announcement, and Israeli TV stations quoted him as saying we have a country with an army, not an army with a country.

Israel attacked Gaza in response to Hamas' Oct. 7 cross-border attack into southern Israel, which killed some 1,200 people and took 250 hostage.

Israel's war effort initially enjoyed broad public support, but in recent months wide divisions have emerged. While Netanyahu has pledged total victory, a growing array of critics and protesters have backed a cease-fire that would bring home the roughly 120 hostages still in Gaza. The Israeli military has already pronounced more than 40 of them dead, and officials fear that number will rise the longer the hostages are held.

Inside Gaza, the war has killed more than 37,100 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which doesnt distinguish between combatants and civilians. The war has largely cut off the flow of medicine, food and other supplies to Palestinians, who are facing widespread hunger.

The United Nations said Wednesday that its humanitarian workers were once again unable to pick up aid shipments at the Kerem Shalom border crossing from Israel because of a lack of law and order.

U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq said that although there were no clashes along the route where Israel has declared a daily pause in fighting, the lawlessness in the area prevented U.N. workers from picking up aid. This means that no trucks have been able to use the new route since Israel announced the daily pause on Sunday.

In recent weeks, Israel's military has concentrated its offensive in the nearby city of Rafah, which lies on the border with Egypt and where it says Hamas' last remnants are holding out.

More than half of Gazas population of 2.3 million people had earlier taken shelter in Rafah to escape fighting elsewhere in the territory, and the city is now nearly empty as the Israeli military carries out airstrikes and ground operations.

The Israeli military says it has killed over 500 militants and inflicted heavy damage on Hamas forces, but officials expect the operation to continue for at least several more weeks.

Israel also has taken over a 14-kilometer (8-mile) corridor along Gaza's border with Egypt, including the Rafah border crossing. Footage circulating on social media shows the crossing blackened and destroyed, with only the former passenger terminal remaining intact. Before Israel moved into the area, the crossing was used to deliver humanitarian aid and to allow Palestinians to leave the territory.

The head of the Rafah municipality, Ahmed al-Sufi, said Wednesday that Israeli strikes have destroyed more than 70% of the facilities and infrastructure. He accused Israeli forces of systematically targeting camps in Rafah, adding that entire residential areas in one neighborhood have been destroyed. Al-Sufi didnt immediately respond to a request for additional information.

In a separate incident, 11 people were killed in an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, said Dr. Saleh al-Hamas of the nearby European Hospital. There were no further details and the Israeli military had no immediate comment.

___

Becatoros reported from Athens, Greece. Associated Press journalists Wafaa Shurafa in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip; Natalie Melzer in Nahariya, Israel; and Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations contributed to this report.
(Bloomberg) -- Rishi Sunaks Conservative Party is heading for an electoral wipeout in the UK general election on July 4, according to three major polls on Wednesday, including one that projected even the premier will lose his seat.

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Seat-by-seat analysis by Savanta and Electoral Calculus for the Daily Telegraph found the Tories are on track to win just 53 seats in next months vote, an all-time low for the 190-year-old party. YouGov put them on 108 seats  which would also be a record  while a More in Common survey for the News Agents podcast projected the governing party slipping to 155 seats. That would be 10 lower than in 1997, when the Conservatives last lost power to the Labour Party.

Any of those results would be devastating for the Conservatives, who like to style themselves as the UKs natural party of government, likely ushering in a lengthy period in opposition. Even worse for Sunak, the Savanta survey shows him losing his own seat of Richmond and Northallerton  which would be unprecedented for a serving prime minister  though the Tory Arthur Balfour lost his seat in 1906, a month after resigning as premier.

The Conservative party is set for the largest defeat in its history, YouGov said in a statement. It said the governing party is set for significant losses in the South West, South East and East of England.

All three polls put Labour leader Keir Starmer easily on course to enter Downing Street as prime minister: More in Common said the opposition is heading for a 162-seat majority, which in itself is approaching the Labours best-ever election result, the 179-seat majority secured in 1997 by Tony Blair. YouGov projects a 200-seat Labour majority; Savanta has them with a 382-seat advantage.

Such numbers would have seemed fanciful just five years ago, when Labour slipped to its biggest electoral defeat since 1935 under Starmers left-wing predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn. More in Common sees Labour winning 406 seats, YouGov has them on 425  a record  and Savanta sees them winning 516 seats  almost four in every five constituencies.

The trio of surveys all project the Liberal Democrats will make significant gains, recovering their status as the UKs third party, which they lost in 2015 after being punished by the electorate for serving five years in coalition with the Tories. More in Common put them on 49 seats  up 38 on 2019s tally, while YouGov put them on 67  which would be a record. Savanta puts them on 50, almost level with the Tories.

YouGov sees Brexit campaigner Nigel Farages Reform UK party taking five seats, while the other two surveys have him winning none, despite recently overtaken the Tories in at least one national poll. A long fieldwork period may not have captured Reforms recent rise in the polls, More in Common Director Luke Tryl said on the social media platform X.

Separately, a constituency poll by Survation in Clacton, where Farage is standing as a candidate, showed him easily winning the seat with 42% of the vote, compared with 27% for the Tory incumbent, Giles Watling. Survation said it polled 506 adults in Clacton on behalf of Arron Banks, a long-time ally of Farage.

While the More in Common survey projected a smaller Labour majority than other recent so-called multi-regression and post-stratification (MRP) modeling, a 162-seat majority would still be more than double that secured five years ago by former Tory Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The fact that this projection showing the Conservatives barely holding 150 seats is one of the most favorable to the Conservatives shows how deep a hole the party finds itself in  with barely two weeks to go for them to change the dial, Tryl said in a statement.

Savanta found that in Richmond and Northallerton, Sunak is heading for a 29% vote share, compared to 34% for his Labour rival Tom Wilson. Still, the other two surveys see the prime minister retaining his seat relatively comfortably.

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YAOUNDE, June 19 (Xinhua) -- At least nine people have been killed and 46 others injured following a fire that triggered explosions at an ammunitions depot in Chad's capital, N'Djamena, the country's health minister, Abdelmadjid Abderrahim, said on Wednesday. 
MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 22: Sonia Rojas, a pharmacy technician, works in the P & P Pharmacy on December 22, 2020 in Miami, Florida. Reports indicate that drugstores around the country are rushing to hire thousands of pharmacists and technicians to administer COVID-19 vaccines and handle the additional work in the drugstores. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

More pharmacies are closing in Ohio and Michigan small towns amid complaints about middleman reimbursements and a difficult retail environment.

Philadelphia-based Rite Aid is closing an additional 27 stores in the two states, according to a bankruptcy filing reported on Monday by WTOL in Toledo. The stores are among 200 of the companys 2,000 stores that it said it would close when it filed for bankruptcy protection last October.

They include pharmacies in 15 Ohio towns such as Ashtabula, Defiance, Coshocton, Wheelersburg, St. Marys, and Tiffin. Another 12 listed for closure in Michigan include such towns as Ludington, Wyandotte, Spring Lake, Bay City, Burton, and Flint.

The company didnt immediately respond to a request for comment, but it and other brick-and-mortar pharmacies have been struggling with a difficult environment as they compete with online retailers such as Amazon. For example, CVS is finishing up a process in which it closed 900 stores nationally over three years and Walmart last year asked 16,000 pharmacists to help reduce costs by working less.

In addition, pharmacies nationwide have been complaining for at least eight years about diminishing reimbursements and clawbacks from middlemen who control access to so many insured patients that pharmacies believe they have no choice but to contract with them.

The businesses, known as pharmacy benefit managers, or PBMs, represent insurers and the biggest three are all part of the same corporation as a major insurer. They decide which drugs are covered, and they decide how much to reimburse pharmacies in a non-transparent system.

The biggest three, CVS Caremark, OptumRx, and Express Scripts, are estimated to control access to 80% of all insured patients in the United States.

After years of complaints and state attempts to rein in the companies, the Federal Trade Commission in 2022 undertook an investigation. It continues, although FTC Chair Lina Khan in March complained that the big PBMs werent cooperating despite obligations to do so.

Rite Aids disclosure this week that it will close 15 more pharmacies in Ohio will only add to the hundreds that have closed in the Buckeye State over the past decade. Closures in small towns here, in Michigan and elsewhere are especially concerning because they can create pharmacy deserts.

For the poor and elderly particularly, a pharmacy can be the most frequent  if not the only  point of contact with a healthcare professional. Closing a small towns only pharmacy can create transportation issues that are all but insurmountable for some patients.

The Rite Aid Stores to be closed:

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The Ganges river abruptly changed course 2,500 years ago following a devastating earthquake, according to a new study that raises concerns about the prevailing risk of megaquakes in South Asia.

Researchers, including from the Columbia Climate School, discovered a previously undocumented quake that struck what is now Bangladesh.

I dont think we have ever seen such a big one anywhere, said geophysicist Michael Steckler, a co-author of the study published in the journal Nature.

The Ganges forms the worlds second-largest river system after the Amazon in South America, flowing for over 2,500 km through northern India and Bangladesh before joining the Brahmaputra and emptying into the Bay of Bengal. It forms a vast labyrinth of waterways that feeds the most densely populated region on the planet.

While earthquakes are known as one of the key drivers of landscape change, their impact on river courses isnt fully understood.

Rivers are known to periodically change course without the help of earthquakes but this process generally takes successive floods over years or decades.

When a river changes course, sediments wash from upstream, settle and build up and eventually cause the river bed to rise higher than the surrounding floodplain.

But when the change of course is caused by a quake, the sediment flow can occur almost instantaneously.

In the new study, scientists assessed a unique sediment feature that was first discovered in a freshly dug pond near Dhaka that had not yet been filled with water.

On one flank of the pond, they spotted vertical dikes of sand that are well-known as a feature created by earthquakes. The dikes are caused when quakes pressurise buried sand and inject it up out of the soil like literal sand volcanoes, researchers said.

A classic sign of a landscape disrupted by an earthquake is a vein of sand that has been pushed up through darker sediments (Liz Chamberlain)

On further analysis, scientists found the sand dikes in the pond were all created at the same time about 2,500 years ago.

A similar change was discovered at a site about 85km downstream.

Researchers said these changes are proof of the former main channel of the river that ran about 100km south of Dhaka.

This fossil channel of the Ganges is a low-lying area about 1.5 km wide and stretches intermittently for some 100km parallel to the current river course.

The extinct channel frequently floods and is used mainly for rice cultivation, scientists said.

The lowlands of Bangladesh are in many places an elaborate mixture of land and water that sometimes change places (Photo by Steve Goodbred)

Researchers concluded from their findings that there was a big, sudden avulsion triggered by an earthquake, estimated to be magnitude 7 or 8 which struck the region two and a half millennia ago.

The quake was likely caused by a huge under-ocean tectonic plate shoving itself under Bangladesh, Myanmar and northeastern India, they said.

Scientists noted that these zones are still building stress and could produce quakes of comparable magnitude again in this densely populated region.

Large earthquakes impact large areas and can have long-lasting economic, social and political effects, Syed Humayun Akhter, vice-chancellor of Bangladesh Open University and an author of the study, said.
Republican presidential candidate, former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally outside Schnecksville Fire Hall on April 13, 2024 in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. . (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

NEWTOWN  The Republican National Committee brought its new nationwide campaign aimed at recruiting 100,000 poll watchers, poll workers, and legal experts to Pennsylvania on Tuesday.

We from the RNC have put in place an incredible election integrity program, RNC Co-Chair Lara Trump said Tuesday. This is unlike anything weve ever done before and it is to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.

Trump, the daughter-in-law of presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump said the RNC wants to have an army of people across this country, 100,000 people strong working around the country to ensure integrity in our election. The RNCs Pennsylvania target is to recruit at least 5,000 volunteers.

RNC Chairman Michael Whatley, former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Pennsylvania U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser (R-9th District) joined Lara Trump Tuesday at the second stop on the Protect the Vote Tour. An RNC press release described it as a nationwide initiative to champion election integrity, rally voters for President Trump, and train volunteers to ensure it is easy to vote and hard to cheat this November.

RNC Co-Chair Lara Trump at the RNC's "Protect the Vote" tour in Newtown, Pennsylvania June 18, 2024 (Capital-Star photo by John Cole)

The actual training session was closed to the press, so it is unclear how many stayed for that portion, but the room was filled with supporters to hear the politicians remarks Tuesday.

Whatley told reporters after his speech that training includes directions for how to sign up as an election observer, training on what they are looking for in the role, and how to flag an issue if they see one.

Were not there to be disruptive, what we want to make sure is everybody understands how it should be running and then if you see something, then youre in a position to go ahead and flag it and raise the issue, Whatley told reporters.

When asked about the specific red flags that they are telling people to look for, he said it depended on the states, since each state has its own processes.

If this thing goes smoothly, this is a very boring job, Whatley said. And thats really what we want is we want to make sure that all of the systems are going to operate very smooth, we want it to be fair, accurate, secure, and transparent.

Following the 2020 election, former President Trump repeated false claims that the election was stolen, although the courts ruled against efforts to overturn the results, including in Pennsylvania. He continues to claim on the campaign trail, without evidence, that the 2020 election was rigged.

Whatley said Tuesday the three things needed to ensure election integrity were making sure the laws are followed, while making a plea for voter ID and ensure mail-in ballot protocols are being followed; having a national conversation about election integrity and being able to be in the room during the process of voting and tabulating.

The Democratic National Committee said Tuesday that the RNC has a different intent for its poll watching initiative than it claims.

Donald Trump is terrified that Pennsylvania voters will hand him another defeat in November, so he and his Republican allies are using whatever resources they have left to spread dangerous lies about rigged elections, DNC spokesperson Addy Toevs told the Capital-Star. The truth is much simpler than that: Trump is a loser. Trump knows that his best shot at a victory in November is to attempt to undermine our democratic process, just like he tried and failed to do in 2020.

Democrats will continue to fight for every voters right to make their voice heard  early, by mail, and in person on Election Day  free from intimidation, misinformation, or suppression, Toevs added.

In 2016, the RNCs attempt to change Pennsylvanias poll watcher laws to allow people from anywhere in the state to monitor precincts on Election Day was rejected by a federal judge.

Whatley told reporters it was not something they planned on revisiting leading up to the 2024 election.

I think what we want to do right now is work within the rules that we have, work within the laws and the regulations that we have, make sure that everybody understands where we are and then were going to train people and make sure we deploy them, but we would like to have as many as 5,000 volunteers here in Pennsylvania that are going to be able to go out and work as poll workers and poll observers, he said.

When pressed by reporters about where in Pennsylvania those 5,000 people would be located, he said they were going to look where people are going to be voting, adding it would be throughout the commonwealth.

He said the RNC already has staff deployed to Pennsylvania on the political and election integrity side to ensure they have people in place before November.

Mail-in voting pitch

Speakers at Tuesdays event encouraged those in attendance to vote either on Election Day, early, or by mail. Trump, who has railed against mail-in voting for years, launched his Swamp the Vote USA effort on June 4 in an effort to encourage voters to vote by mail and vote early in the 2024 election. Unlike some other states, Pennsylvania does not have early in-person voting.

During Trumps previous appearances in Pennsylvania, which were all prior to the launch of that initiative, he didnt encourage attendees to vote by mail. On Tuesday, Lara Trump rejected the notion that it was a shift in strategy.

Well, he has told people. Hes put it out on his Truth Social, he actually made a video specifically saying however you feel comfortable voting, whether its voting by mail, voting early, or voting on election day, those are all great ways to vote, she told reporters. And I think the reality is we as a party should be embracing this more and we want every legal vote to count and however you can vote best and as early as you can vote, thats exactly what we want you to do.

In Pennsylvania, mail-in ballots are not allowed to be pre-canvassed, which is different from some other states with mail-in voting, and which adds time to tallying votes on Election Night. Reporters asked the RNC officials if they supported a change in the states law to speed up the process.

Right now, what I would say is we are working within the construct of every state and I mean, there are some changes that were going to be pushing, but thats not one that were really kind of taking a look at, Whatley told reporters.

So, what we want is we want to make sure that we have a big enough majority that when people go to bed, they feel very comfortable about where this is going to go, he added. But we certainly understand in Pennsylvania and in other states that theyre going to be doing counts that are going to last a day, or theyll last two days, or three days, but we want to make sure that there is a secure count, we want to make sure its accurate, its fair and its transparent as all of the ballots are going through the process.

Trump returns to Pennsylvania

Trump is scheduled to be in Philadelphia on Saturday for a rally at the Liacouras Center on Temple Universitys campus for his his fourth visit to Pennsylvania in 2024. President Joe Biden has made eight appearances in Pennsylvania this year, most recently in Philadelphia with Vice President Kamala in late May to announce the launch of Black Voters for Biden-Harris at Girard College.

The Biden campaign jumped off to an early start in Pennsylvania, opening 24 coordinated offices across the commonwealth beginning in March. Trumps campaign has recently ratcheted up its efforts in Pennsylvania by opening its first Trump Force 47 office in Philadelphia on June 4 and opening an office on June 12 in Reading to appeal to Latino American voters.

We have President Trumps popularity going way up, we have the commonwealth of Pennsylvania with some serious Biden buyers remorse, Meuser, who objected to certifying Pennsylvanias results in 2020 said Tuesday. Whos relating to this agenda of this Biden administration? Who in their right mind is actually relating to it? Its a disaster from A to Z.

Biden and Trump have been neck-and-neck in polls over the past several months. A Marist poll released on June 12 showed Trump leading Biden by 2 points in the Keystone State.

Biden beat Trump in Pennsylvania in 2020 by just over 80,000 votes.

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Road in York County closed after tractor-trailer crash brings wires down, sparks brush fire

YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A crash and brush fire along the same roadway in York County has it closed off for traffic Wednesday afternoon.

Newberry Township Fire Department said in a Facebook post that crews were called for a no injury crash with hazard in the 3200 block of Lewisberry Road.

Man killed after being ran over by vehicle in Lancaster County, State Police say

After arriving, crews found a tractor-trailer struck a low hanging wire, bringing it down and causing a small brush fire, and there were also wires blocking the roadway, the post says.

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Township police also took to Facebook, saying the roadway is expected to be closed for an extended period of time from Garrison Road to Front Street.

This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available

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A man is accused of stabbing another person and running from the scene in Parkland on Tuesday.

Pierce County deputies were dispatched at 11:39 a.m. to 136th Street East and Pacific Avenue for reports of a stabbing. Deputies learned that a man was urinating on the side of the road when someone drove by and saw him. The victim got out of his car and pushed the man for urinating, Pierce County Sheriffs Department spokesman Sgt. Darren Moss told The News Tribune.

The victim walked back to his car, and the man whod been shoved got up to chase him. A third person intervened, getting into a physical altercation with the man who did the shoving. While that was going on, the person who had been urinating stabbed the victim in the back. The victim went to his car to grab a gun, and he was stabbed again, Moss said.

The victim and witnesses said the stabber then ran off. Deputies found the man at a convenience store at 138th Street East and Pacific Avenue, Moss said. They detained him, and a witness identified him as the stabber.

He was arrested and booked into the Pierce County Jail, Moss said.

The victim was taken to a local hospital. There is no information on the severity of his injuries.
Longtime GOP operative and Donald Trump confidant Roger Stone was caught on tape detailing the steps that Republicans are taking in order to successfully challenge the 2024 election result should the former president lose to President Joe Biden again.

This time around, Trumps team is more prepared than they were four years ago and are already on an offensive footing with lawyers, judges, technology, Stone said in the undercover recording obtained by journalist Lauren Windsor. The audio was recorded at a Catholics Prayer for Trump event on March 19 at Mar-a-Lago, where Stone was the keynote speaker.

The audio, provided exclusively to Rolling Stone and published Tuesday, includes conversations between Windsor and Stone, and between Windsors colleague, Ally Sammarco, and Stone.

Stone perpetuated Trumps 2020 election lie to the women when he claimed the presidential election could be stolen again and that he wasnt currently totally confident about how the vote would actually play out.

Asked what would prevent voter fraud, Stone replied: In some states, itll be easier to stop. In other places, it wont. But at least this time when they do it, you have a lawyer and a judge, his home phone number standing by so you can stop it.

We made no preparations last time, none, he admitted, appearing to reference the tossing of dozens of lawsuits that falsely alleged the 2020 election was stolen.

Watch the footage here:

NEW UNDERCOVER inside Mar-a-Lago: Trump Ally Roger Stones Plan to Win Election Relies on Judges and Courts pic.twitter.com/SNdcdCqcl7  Lauren Windsor (@lawindsor) June 18, 2024

Sammarco claimed to Stone that she was at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021  when Trump supporters rioted at the incitement of the then-president as he desperately sought to hang onto power  and was prepared to return.

Stone responded: That may not be necessary. There are technical, legal steps that we have to take to try to have a more honest election. Were not there yet, but there are things that can be done.

He highlighted the changes in state law, and real-time voter list monitoring, going to court as we just did to challenge some of the vote laws.

We should be suing in half a dozen places, he added, later suggesting the Republican National Committee would now spend far more money on fighting for Trump since the former presidents installation of his daughter-in-law Lara Trump as co-chair.

This is not the first time Stone touts information about Trump. Last year, he was caught on camera boasting about manipulating Trump for years. I have a 40-year record of being able to convince the big man to do whats in his best interest, Stone said while filming for Danish filmmaker Christoffer Guldbrandsens documentary, A Storm Foretold.

Trump, in the final days of his presidency, pardoned Stone of his 40-month prison sentence for witness tampering and lying to Congress.

Also in 2023, a video emerged of Stone appearing to hatch the plot to overturn Bidens victory in the aftermath of Trumps loss.

When reached for comment from Rolling Stone, Stone downplayed his secretly recorded statements: All of the election integrity provisions that I suggested are perfectly legal and should be part of any ballot Security effort.

Related...
South Koreas race to become one of the worlds biggest arms dealers

SEOUL (Reuters) - Romania will buy $920 million worth of South Korea's K-9 self-propelled howitzers, in its largest weapon acquisition in seven years, Seoul's defence ministry said on Wednesday.

The deal was announced in a meeting between South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik and his Romanian counterpart Angel Tilvar, during Shin's visit to the Eastern European country.

Shin and Tilvar agreed that military cooperation between Russia and North Korea threatens the security of Europe and Asia, and close cooperation with the international community in responding to the matter was necessary.

In April, South Korean and Romanian leaders held a summit and pledged to boost defence industry cooperation.

Romania's decision to purchase K-9 howitzers, following in the footsteps of Poland, will expand the footprint of South Korea's defence industry in Europe, Seoul's defence ministry said on Wednesday.

South Korea is working to establish itself as the world's fourth-largest arms exporter.

Shin is set to head to Poland for a three-day trip later on Wednesday, where he will meet Polish Defence Minister and deputy Prime Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz and discuss defence and arms industry cooperation.

(Reporting by Hyunsu Yim; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli)
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Surveillance cameras on Las Vegas-area buses will soon be able to detect guns and other weapons as the RTC becomes the first transportation agency to fully deploy the technology, according to the software systems developer.

ZeroEyes said it is providing the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada with the new technology to detect weapons when displayed in a threatening manner. RTC will become the first transportation agency to deploy the system in a wide-scale manner.

The artificial intelligence software uses existing cameras to detect a weapon. If one is detected, a person at an operations center can alert law enforcement. ZeroEyes said that can happen in as little as three seconds.

RTC prides itself on its ability to identify transportation challenges and implement solutions, RTC CEO MJ Maynard said in a news release. Tens of thousands of people depend on our transit system every day, and we continually look for ways to improve their safety and security.

A demonstration from ZeroEyes. (ZeroEyes/Fusion PR)

The safety of operators and passengers is central to our mission at United Safety, Joseph Mirabile, CEO of United Safety, said. We are thrilled that RTC, a longstanding partner benefiting from our diverse safety products, acknowledges the significant impact ZeroEyes can bring to its transit system.

RTC has set a new standard in security by becoming the nations first transit agency to execute wide-scale deployment of weapons detection analytics to protect its citizens, Mike Lahiff, CEO of ZeroEyes, said. ZeroEyes looks forward to working alongside RTC and continuing its partnership with USSC to enhance public safety.

In 2022, RTC upgraded its cameras as part of a nearly $8 million project.

Video cameras were first installed on the buses following a May 2017 incident on the Las Vegas Strip, when a deadly shooting occurred inside a double-decker bus and a man barricaded himself inside.

In the wake of several high-profile violent crimes last year, including a murder on the bus, RTC added more security guards.

Nevada law requires a concealed-carry permit. RTC restricts the carrying or possessing of illegal weapons defined by law.

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LUSAKA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Zambia on Wednesday urged African countries to adapt and implement innovative practices of debt management in the changing global economic landscape.

Minister of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane said the changing global economic landscape is affecting the way countries manage their debt, adding that African countries should not continue with old ways of debt management that may not be suited to the changing times.

The minister made the remarks at the start of a stakeholders' forum on debt management attended by participants from various African countries.

Musokotwane said the forum was expected to come up with solutions to help countries navigate emerging challenges within the current global economic landscape as well as explore innovative solutions to complex debt management issues.

He said Zambia has been restructuring its external debt since 2020 and achieved significant milestones by reaching agreements with both bilateral creditors and bondholders, adding that the long restructuring process experienced has provided the country with an opportunity to reevaluate its debt management framework.

The country has since implemented reforms concerning debt management practices and regulatory frameworks by aligning them with international best practices in order to avoid similar pitfalls in the future, the minister said.

Zambia remains committed to ensuring that debt management strategies support the country's development priorities, promote economic growth and job creation, and reduce poverty, he added. 
One of the untold stories of this election is the crisis facing the Conservatives in rural England. There are seats here that have voted Tory since the Reform Act or before which are now looking like they might switch to Labour or the Lib Dems.

The fact that the PM spent Tuesday campaigning in Sir Geoffrey Coxs new seat of Torridge and Tavistock, previously home to a circa 25,000 Conservative majority, testifies to the partys electoral malaise. In 2019, the Tories won all but two of the deeply rural seats. This time, Labour could win half of them. Rural voters should be careful what they wish for.

Sir Keir Starmer recently vowed to end the divisive era of culture wars (hilariously implying that the Left never starts them). Yet front and centre of his rural commitments is not a statement on farming or on crime or on anything else that actually comes up in country life, but a ban on trail hunting.

This is an obvious case of throwing a bone to Labours Left-flank, plus the well-heeled pressure groups within its ranks. The policy appears rooted in vindictiveness, with neither evidence nor necessity propelling its introduction.

Since hounds cannot be domesticated, what does Labour intend to do with these estimated 12,000 animals when there are no longer funds to care for them, and their keepers have been made redundant? With an overstretched police presence as it is, the idea that chasing a scented rag should be prioritised over burglaries and machete attacks can only come from one place  a sort of rural-phobia.

The targeting of trail hunting epitomises Labours approach. Prior to being elected MP for the loamy acres of Croydon North, shadow environment secretary Steve Reed was a councillor in Lambeth. For the current Labour frontbench, rural areas are like Chamberlains Czechoslovakia; a far-off land of which we know nothing.

They know nothing, and say less. Tucked away in the Make Britain a clean energy superpower section of the Labour manifesto is a single paragraph on farming; 87 words, amid more than 130 pages of padding, word salad and photos of Sir Keir.

One of the partys few tangible pledges is to end ineffective badger culls  even though, this year, the most rigorous analysis of its kind found that rates of bovine TB in cattle had fallen on average by 56 per cent in the first cull areas after four years. That Labour has chosen to misrepresent the impact of culling is telling; placing evidence-free sentimentality above farmers interests.

The list goes on. Until recently, Labour was gleefully demanding a Scottish-style universal right to roam in England, despite its higher proportion of residents and farming land. It plans to raise firearms licensing fees; proceeds to be diverted towards violent crime prevention schemes for urban youths. Quite why legal firearm-owners in rural areas must be financially responsible for city knife attacks is not explained. Clearly, some in Labour view the countryside as a Barbour-jacketed ATM to be pillaged.

Then there is the insanity of Welsh Labours Sustainable Farming Scheme, which would harm food security and place unrealistic burdens on farmers; bribing them to commit 10 per cent of their land to tree-planting schemes, plus a further 10 per cent for environment and wildlife. The Welsh government has pushed for this, even after its own impact assessment estimated an 11 per cent cut in labour on Welsh farms, the equivalent of 5,500 jobs. Welsh Labours illiberal 20mph zones and road-building bans also drew farmers wrath, contributing to the mass protests earlier this year.

Labours plans to boost house-building are long overdue and, to my mind, the most commendable part of its manifesto. The trouble is that encouraging relentless population growth, as our political class has done from Tony Blair onwards, threatens to absorb much of it. Britain needs as many as 500,000 new homes annually to meet population growth. Will Labours plans be accompanied by a similar drive to reduce migration? If not, how much of the countryside must then be devoted to building?

There is already a serious issue with rural Britain being overlooked by a political system that prioritises the majority; the realities of country life are rarely reflected in debates about green policies; from wood-burning stoves to electric cars.

Memories are long in rural areas and many people will still remember the pyres of burning livestock during foot and mouth, the loss of livelihood and culture over the hunting ban (which Blair later cited as one of his biggest political mistakes).

Of course, many in rural areas are furious with the Conservatives, too, and with good reason. The state of our waterways, the lack of support for farmers, the neglect of problems like flooding and rural crime: Tory administrations have at times treated the countryside shamefully. Some rural seats, deemed safe as houses, became a dumping ground for Central Office urbanites who needed or wanted an easy ride into Westminster; or a reward for Spads who have rarely left SW1.

Conservative incompetence and arrogance risk handing Labour many of these seats, but where there is a diligent incumbent Tory MP, rural voters might consider holding their nose and backing them. The idea that anyone under the Labour whip will have the interests of the countryside at heart is for the birds. Country-dwellers, in their anger, risk voting in those with an active vendetta against them.

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Russia's interference in the upcoming U.K. election will likely "ramp up dramatically" ahead of voting day on July 4, U.S. Senator Mark Warner told reporters on June 18.

U.S. officials have said that Russia engaged in a widespread campaign of digital disinformation and hacking in the past two American presidential elections, with particular effort dedicated to the 2016 election.

Russia has also been accused of meddling in the U.K.'s 2016 Brexit referendum.

Warner, who serves as the chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, said that Russia and its proxies are "sowing discontent or trying to pit groups against each other (to) further social division" in the U.K.

The U.S. is "closely monitoring" the situation in the U.K., said Warner, adding that the U.S. has seen evidence of Russia's"egregious efforts similar to what happened in 2016" to interfere in elections around the world.

"Clearly, Russia does not like the fact that the U.K. has been as stalwart as they have been in terms of defense on Ukraine," Warner said.

The U.K. said earlier in June that it has committed almost 12.7 billion pounds ($16.1 billion) to Ukraine since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion.

U.S. intelligence services have so far not "seen much activity" indicating Russian interference in the U.K. election, said Warner, but "the chances are, as we saw in the past, this activity ramps up dramatically the closer it gets to the election."

"It clearly meets (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's plans if he can lessen the British or the Americans' resolve for supporting Ukraine, he can save some money on his tanks, guns, ships, and planes if he can diminish support."

Read also: US, UK, Canada warn of Russian interference in Moldovas election

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Russia has moved almost all ground forces from Finland's vicinity to Ukraine, media report

Russia has moved the vast majority of its ground forces previously stationed near Finland to the war in Ukraine, the Finnish public broadcaster Yle reported on June 19, citing an undisclosed Finnish military intelligence source.

These revelations stand in contrast to previous claims by Russia on reinforcing its troops near the Finnish border in response to the Nordic country's entry into NATO.

"On average, 80% of the equipment and soldiers have been transferred to the war in Ukraine," the high-ranking military intelligence source told Yle.

According to the source, the situation is similar in other Russian regions except for Moscow Oblast. This concerns mainly the Ground Forces, as air defenses, the Air Force, and the Navy remain relatively well-manned, Yle reported.

The numbers of soldiers stationed in bases near the Finnish borders sometimes fluctuate as Russia draws new conscripts, but "all contract soldiers have been sent to do real work," the source said.

After Russian professional contractors suffered heavy losses in Ukraine, Russia began to partially mobilize its population to fill up the ranks.

Satellite imagery obtained by Yle confirmed certain changes. For example, dozens of units and equipment stationed in a military base near Petrozavodsk (a city some 200 kilometers or 125 miles from the Russian border) in June 2023 disappeared as of May 2024.

At the same time, new facilities appeared, likely for servicing equipment damaged in war or accommodations for conscripts undergoing basic training, Yle wrote.

A number of NATO officials have warned that NATO should prepare itself for a possible open confrontation with Russia in the coming years. The Finnish intelligence estimates it can take between three to five years for the Russian military to recuperate from its losses in Ukraine.

The tensions between the military bloc and Moscow have been mounting since the West threw its support behind Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.

Finland entered NATO in April 2023, extending the NATO-Russian border by roughly 1,340 kilometers (830 miles).

Read also: Finnish president: Ukraine in a position of strength for path to peace

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The leaders of Russia and North Korea have struck an agreement on mutual assistance in the event of an attack by a third country, as part of an overarching partnership agreement between the two countries.

The agreement on all-encompassing strategic cooperation signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang on Wednesday is intended to take cooperation between the two states to a new level.

Kim described the agreement as "a huge treaty," which he said ushers in a new era. Their cooperation on political, military, economic and other issues was peaceful and was aimed at defending the interests of both states, he emphasized.

"I have no doubt that it will become a driving force in the accelerated development of a new multipolar world," Kim said.

During his visit to North Korea, Putin criticized Western arms deliveries to Ukraine. Individual NATO allies have authorized Ukraine to attack Russian territory with the high-precision weapons supplied. Russia sees this as a direct involvement of NATO states in the war in Ukraine.

Putin also spoke out in favour of lifting UN sanctions against North Korea and assured Kim of help in resisting pressure from international punitive measures.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il-Sung Square. -/Kremlin/dpa
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un shake hands a head of their meeting during Putin's two day state visit. -/Kremlin/dpa

The leaders of Russia and North Korea have struck an agreement on mutual assistance in the event of an attack by a third country, as part of an overarching partnership agreement between the two countries.

The agreement on all-encompassing strategic cooperation signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang on Wednesday is intended to take cooperation between the two states to a new level.

Kim described the agreement as "a huge treaty," which he said ushers in a new era. Their cooperation on political, military, economic and other issues was peaceful and was aimed at defending the interests of both states, he said.

"I have no doubt that it will become a driving force in the accelerated development of a new multipolar world," Kim said.

During his visit to North Korea, Putin criticized Western arms deliveries to Ukraine. Individual NATO allies have authorized Ukraine to attack Russian territory with the high-precision weapons supplied. Russia sees this as a direct involvement of NATO states in the war in Ukraine.

Putin also spoke out in favour of lifting UN sanctions against North Korea and assured Kim of help in resisting pressure from international punitive measures.

It was Putin's first stay in the neighbouring country in 24 years.

The Russian leader was welcomed by a cheering crowd at Kim Il Sung Square, the architectural and symbolic centre of Pyongyang.

Putin thanked his North Korean host for supporting Russian policy, including Moscow's war against Ukraine.

According to the White House, the two sides agreed last year on the delivery of North Korean missiles and artillery ammunition to Russia, which Moscow uses in the war.

This is suspected to be in return for the transfer of key military technologies to Pyongyang, which is subject to international sanctions due to its nuclear programme. Both countries have denied any such cooperation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian delegation attend a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during Putin's two day state visit. -/Kremlin/dpa
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed on June 19 the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement in Pyongyang, the Kremlin's press service reported.

Under the treaty, the two countries pledge to provide aid to one another if either is attacked, Putin said at a press conference after the signing ceremony.

The Kremlin's chief arrived in North Korea on June 18 in a sign of the deepening relations between the two countries, as Pyongyang supplied Moscow with extensive military supplies for use on Ukrainian battlefields.

The two leaders led hours-long talks before signing the treaty. The North Korean dictator claimed the agreement is of a "peaceful and defensive nature" and called Russia his country's "most honorable friend and ally."

Details of the treaty remain unclear, but Putin said that Russia "does not rule out the development of military-technical cooperation with North Korea" in connection to the newly signed agreement.

"I have no doubt that (the treaty) will become a driving force of a new multipolar world. Time has changed. The status of (North Korea) and the Russian Federation in the global geopolitical structure has also changed," Kim said at a press conference.

North Korea's leader also said the agreement provides for cooperation in the economic, political, and military spheres.

With Russia's military stocks running low and domestic production capacity simultaneously hampered by Western sanctions, North Korea has been shaping up to be Russia's leading weapons supplier.

Moscow has reportedly received extensive military packages from Pyongyang, including ballistic missiles and around 5 million artillery shells.

As part of his visit to North Korea, Putin and Kim also signed treaties on on cooperation in healthcare, science, and the construction of a border bridge across the Tumannaya River.

According to the Russian state-controlled news agency Interfax, the new partnership agreement replaces previous documents signed between the two countries in 1961, 2000, and 2001.

Read also: Putin lands in North Korea looking for support, weapons, validation

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Russia has split up the naval flotilla that docked in Havana earlier this week, sending its nuclear submarine back north to the Atlantic and the rest of its warships south, where they are expected to make a port call in Venezuela, a U.S. official told McClatchy and the Miami Herald on Tuesday.

U.S. and Canadian warships, including destroyers and Coast Guard cutters, followed the submarine on Tuesday as it traveled back up the Florida coast in international waters  a reflection of the vessels significance and its proximity to U.S. shores.

An official with the U.S. Northern Command told McClatchy that the U.S. Navy continues to closely monitor the movements of the Russian vessels. Their presence in the Western Hemisphere mark the first significant Russian naval deployment in the region in five years, and the first deployment of a nuclear submarine of its kind since the end of the Cold War.

The Russian flotilla, comprising the missile frigate Admiral Gorshkov, the nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine Kazan, the oil tanker Pashin and the salvage tug Nikolai Chiker, arrived in Havana last Wednesday, closely tracked by U.S. and Canadian military vessels.

U.S. officials confirmed to McClatchy and the Miami Herald the deployment of three guided-missile destroyers  the USS Truxtun, USS Donald Cook and USS Delbert D. Black  as well as a Coast Guard cutter, the Stone, and a Boeing P-8 maritime patrol aircraft. They stayed close to Cuban waters near Havana for several days.

U.S. officials had previously said they expected the Russian ships to go to Venezuela and conduct military exercises in the Caribbean.

Last Wednesday, the Russian combat vessels and the submarine passed very close to Florida shores on their way to Havana. At one point, open satellite tracking data located one of the Russian vessels less than 30 miles off Key Largo.

The Russian navy frigate Admiral Gorshkov

On Tuesday afternoon, three U.S. warships, including the USS destroyer Truxtun and the Coast Guard cutter Stone, and the Canadian frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec were positioned close to Miami shores, and later continued moving north close to the Florida coast, according to satellite tracking website marinetraffic.com.

A fourth Canadian warship, the HMCS Margaret Brook, docked in Havana at the same time as the Russian submarine and frigate, was off West Palm Beach on Tuesday afternoon.

The U.S. military also seemed to have attempted to track the expected fleet trajectory with the help of unmanned vessels known as saildrones, a technology used to monitor ocean currents and hurricanes. According to satellite tracking data, three of those vessels were located close to Central Cuba on Tuesday morning. The U.S. Navy has recently incorporated into the saildrones the technology that helps track submarines.

Russian officials and state media have said little about the fleets next destination. But on Monday, the commander of the frigate Admiral Gorshkov suggested in a vague statement to the Russian official news agency Tass that the fleet was to resume combat service.

We carried out everything that we planned, said Capt. Pavel Konov. We are ready to continue to carry out the tasks of combat service.

While in Havana, he said the sailors rested, visited a museum dedicated to Cubas late ruler Fidel Castro, went to the beach and tried mangoes.

Curious Cubans waited in line to visit the frigate, which was also toured by Cuban leader Miguel Diaz-Canel and CNN.

American, Russian and Cuban officials all played down the visit. Cuba said the Russian warships were not carrying nuclear weapons. American officials said the Russian deployment was not a threat to the U.S. And a Kremlin spokesman said countries did not need to worry about Russian warships in the Western Hemisphere, which he called a normal occurrence.
Russia is going to suspend its participation in the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA), Valentina Matvienko, Speaker of the Federation Council [upper house of the Russian parliament], has said.

Source: Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency Interfax, as reported by European Pravda

Details: During a Federation Council meeting, Matvienko stated that the upper house of Russia's sham parliament, along with the State Duma (the lower house), would draft a decision to suspend participation in the OSCE PA and halt payments from the Russian Federation to the organisation.

"Colleagues, I would support the idea of giving such an instruction to the [Federation Council] committee to work with colleagues from the State Duma and prepare such a decision to suspend our participation and, accordingly, to suspend payments to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly from the Russian Federation," Matvienko said.

Her statement was preceded by a speech by Vladimir Dzhabarov, the First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council's Committee on International Affairs, who voiced this position, saying that it had been agreed upon with the State Duma.

Dzhabarov stated that, in Russia's view, all the "principles on which the OSCE PA was based had been destroyed". In addition, he claimed that there had been a "total Ukrainisation" of the Assembly's agenda.

Background:

The Romanian authorities have recently refused to issue visas to Russian and Belarusian delegations to attend the annual session of the OSCE PA, which will take place in Romania from 29 June to 3 July.

The Russian delegation has previously refused to attend at least two sessions of the OSCE PA  in autumn 2023 in Yerevan and in winter 2024 in Vienna. Russian parliamentarians also did appear at the sessions in the UK and Canada in 2022 and 2023, respectively, due to a lack of visas.

In July 2023, the OSCE PA adopted a declaration recognising Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism.

Earlier this year, Russia announced its suspension from the OSCE PA.

The Parliamentary Assembly brings together 57 member states of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe.

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One person has been injured after two Russian guided bombs targeted a children's facility on the outskirts of Kharkiv, the city's mayor Ihor Terekhov said on June 19.

The injured woman is receiving medical care, he added in a post on Telegram.

Moscow has recently intensified attacks against Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, as well as Kharkiv Oblast, with the use of missiles, glide bombs, and drones, destroying energy infrastructure and killing civilians.

Nearly 50,000 residents in Kharkiv Oblast are without electricity supply due to the destruction caused by the Russian attacks, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov.

The local authorities are trying to restore the power supply, but the work of the services is complicated by the proximity to the Russia border, Syniehubov added.

Russia launched a new offensive in northern Kharkiv Oblast on May 10 in a push that involved as many as 30,000 troops, according to a Ukrainian official.

Russian forces suffered around 4,000 troops killed or injured during their offensive in northern Kharkiv Oblast between May 10 and June 10, according to the Ukrainian military.

Read also: Air raids last 16 hours per day on average in Kharkiv Oblast obstructing business operations, governor says

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Farmers check the growth of peanut at the Choro Farm in Kakuma refugee camp in Turkana, Kenya, June 19, 2024.

Kakuma Refugee Camp is the country's second-largest camp, hosting about 288,000 refugees from nine countries, including South Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Due to the impact of extreme weather throughout years, the agriculture and economy of the area remain underdeveloped.

To boost food security in Kakuma refugee camp and the Turkana tribe, and to promote the integration of refugees into the local community, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) partnered with the Turkana County government to establish the Choro Farm within Kakuma refugee camp in 2017.

The farm covers an area of 25 acres and involves 120 farmers, including refugees and local community members, cultivating crops such as peanuts and spinach. Currently, the crop has benefited the surrounding communities. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

KAKUMA, Kenya, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Refugees based in Kakuma Refugee Camp in northwestern Kenya, host communities, and government officials on Wednesday staged a march organized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)-Kenya in support of solidarity amid the rising influx of refugees.

Nanduri Sateesh, head of the UNHCR-Kenya sub-office in Kakuma, said the three-km walk symbolized the unity that has prevailed between the host communities and the more than 20 refugee nationalities hosted in Kenya.

"We have demonstrated that standing together can create a welcoming and supportive environment for refugees, celebrating their strengths and contributions while acknowledging the challenges they face," Sateesh said, adding that the walk signifies that all the relevant stakeholders are committed to building a better, more inclusive world for all.

Kakuma Refugee Camp is the country's second-largest camp, hosting about 288,000 refugees from nine countries, including South Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The UNHCR also hailed Kenya for its continued support and solidarity, which have been crucial in providing a haven for refugees since 1992.

Ajang Nyuop Bol, a community leader for refugees in Kakuma Refugee Camp, urged the government and development partners to carry forward the spirit of solidarity and strive for a world where refugees and host communities work together to overcome the hurdles they encounter on a daily basis.

The 39-year-old refugee from South Sudan added that displaced persons fleeing their homelands require support from local communities to fulfill their socioeconomic potential. 

A farmer gets rid of weeds with a flock of sheep at the Choro Farm in Kakuma refugee camp in Turkana, Kenya, June 19, 2024.

Kakuma Refugee Camp is the country's second-largest camp, hosting about 288,000 refugees from nine countries, including South Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Due to the impact of extreme weather throughout years, the agriculture and economy of the area remain underdeveloped.

To boost food security in Kakuma refugee camp and the Turkana tribe, and to promote the integration of refugees into the local community, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) partnered with the Turkana County government to establish the Choro Farm within Kakuma refugee camp in 2017.

The farm covers an area of 25 acres and involves 120 farmers, including refugees and local community members, cultivating crops such as peanuts and spinach. Currently, the crop has benefited the surrounding communities. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

Farmers plow at the Choro Farm in Kakuma refugee camp in Turkana, Kenya, June 19, 2024.

Kakuma Refugee Camp is the country's second-largest camp, hosting about 288,000 refugees from nine countries, including South Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Due to the impact of extreme weather throughout years, the agriculture and economy of the area remain underdeveloped.

To boost food security in Kakuma refugee camp and the Turkana tribe, and to promote the integration of refugees into the local community, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) partnered with the Turkana County government to establish the Choro Farm within Kakuma refugee camp in 2017.

The farm covers an area of 25 acres and involves 120 farmers, including refugees and local community members, cultivating crops such as peanuts and spinach. Currently, the crop has benefited the surrounding communities. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

People deliver brushwood at the Choro Farm in Kakuma refugee camp in Turkana, Kenya, June 19, 2024.

Kakuma Refugee Camp is the country's second-largest camp, hosting about 288,000 refugees from nine countries, including South Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Due to the impact of extreme weather throughout years, the agriculture and economy of the area remain underdeveloped.

To boost food security in Kakuma refugee camp and the Turkana tribe, and to promote the integration of refugees into the local community, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) partnered with the Turkana County government to establish the Choro Farm within Kakuma refugee camp in 2017.

The farm covers an area of 25 acres and involves 120 farmers, including refugees and local community members, cultivating crops such as peanuts and spinach. Currently, the crop has benefited the surrounding communities. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)
Russian attacks across Ukraine killed at least one civilian and injured at least nine over the past day, regional authorities reported early on June 19.

Russia launched Shahed-type drones toward the western city of Lviv overnight on June 19.

While the authorities reported that all five drones were shot down, the debris reportedly injured two men aged 47 and 70 in the village of Malekhiv on Lviv's northern outskirts.

Drone fragments also damaged an administrative building of the State Scientific-Research Control Institute of Veterinary Medicinal Products and Feed Additives, Governor Maksym Kozytskyi said.

In Donetsk Oblast, one person was killed and another injured in Russian attacks against Kurakhivka, Governor Vadym Filashkin said. Two others were injured in Chasiv Yar and Zarichne, he said.

In Kharkiv Oblast, Russian attacks injured a woman in the village of Slatyne of the Kharkiv district on the afternoon of June 18, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov.

A man was hospitalized following a strike against the village of Kurylivka in the Kupinask district earlier the same day, according to the governor.

Two people were injured in Russian attacks against Kherson Oblast over the past day, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported.

Chernihiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Khmelnytskyi, Kirovohrad, Luhansk, Mykolaiv, Sumy, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts also came under attack, but no casualties were reported.

Ukraine reported that its forces shot down 19 of the 21 Russian Shahed-type drones launched by Russia overnight.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Ukrainian brigade warns of Russian attempt to capture Borova in Kharkiv Oblast

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Gordon Black (C), a staff sergeant in the U.S. Eight Army, is led out of court in Vladivostok, Russia, on Wednesday after being sentenced to almost four years in prison for making murder threats against a Russian woman he was in a relationship with and stealing $118 from her. His defense counsel has said they will appeal the conviction. Photo by EPA-EFE

June 19 (UPI) -- A U.S. Army sergeant was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison by a court in Russia's Far East on Wednesday after being convicted of threatening to kill his girlfriend and theft of $118.

The court in the Pervomaisky district of Vladivostok also ordered Staff Sgt. Gordon Black to pay $118 compensation to the unnamed victim, reported Russia's state-run Tass news agency which had a reporter at the sentencing hearing.

Black's jail term, to be served in a "general regime correctional colony," runs from the date it "enters legal force" which may refer to a stay to allow any appeals process to run or that time spent in custody since he was arrested in a hotel room in Vladivostok in May will not be deducted.

The 34-year-old, who travelled to Russia from South Korea while in the process of being redeployed from Camp Humphreys where he was serving with the Eighth Army to his next posting at Fort Cavazos, Texas, denied making murder threats.

However, he admitted partial responsibility for stealing cash from the woman but told the court that he transferred $125 back to her the following day and that the woman was due to receive a $118 security deposit for the apartment which he was paying the rent.

He is set to appeal the conviction.

Black is alleged to have grabbed the woman by the neck during a quarrel and then fled with the money taken from the victim's wallet which he used for various expenses, including paying for the hotel room where he was detained.

Neither the military or the U.S. Department of Defense granted official authorization for Black, who previously served in Iraq and Afghanistan, to travel to Russia, according to the U.S. Army, but there was no evidence he planned to stay there.

The United States said at the time of his arrest that it was "aware of this case and other matters related to Russia," with National Security Council spokesman John Kirby telling reporters the U.S. government was unable to "say much about it right now."

Black's conviction comes at a time of increasingly strained U.S.-Russia relations over the detention and prosecution of a number of U.S. citizens, charges against at least two of whom Washington regards as trumped-up, and amid Moscow's invasion of Ukraine and heightened geopolitical rivalry.
US soldier convicted of theft in Russia and sentenced to nearly 4 years in prison

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Gordon Black sits in a glass cage in courtroom in Vladivostok, Russia, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Black is on trial on charges of theft and threatening murder in a dispute with a Russian woman. Russian state media reported that he denied the allegation of threatening murder but "partially" admitted to theft. (AP Photo)

MOSCOW (AP)  A court in Russias far eastern city of Vladivostok on Wednesday convicted a visiting American soldier of stealing and making threats of murder, and it sentenced him to three years and nine months in prison.

Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, 34, flew to the Pacific port city to see his girlfriend and was arrested last month after she accused him of stealing from her, according to U.S. officials and Russian authorities.

Russia's state news agencies Tass and RIA Novosti reported that the judge in Pervomaisky District Court in Vladivostok also ordered Black to pay 10,000 rubles ($115) in damages. Prosecutors had asked for a sentence of four years and eight months in prison.

Blacks case occurs amid tensions over Russia's arrests of American journalists and other U.S. nationals as the fighting in Ukraine continues.

Russia has jailed a number of Americans, including corporate security executive Paul Whelan and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. The U.S. government has designated both men as wrongfully detained and has been trying to negotiate their release.

Others detained include Travis Leake, a musician who has been living in Russia for years and was arrested last year on drug-related charges; Marc Fogel, a teacher in Moscow who was sentenced to 14 years in prison, also on drug charges; and dual nationals Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Khavana.

The U.S. State Department strongly advises American citizens not to go to Russia.

Black was on leave and in the process of returning to his home base at Fort Cavazos, Texas, from South Korea, where he had been stationed at Camp Humphreys with the Eighth Army.

Cynthia Smith, an Army spokesperson, said Black signed out for his move back home and, instead of returning to the continental United States, Black flew from Incheon, Republic of Korea, through China to Vladivostok, Russia, for personal reasons.

Under Pentagon policy, service members must get clearance for any international travel from a security manager or commander.

The U.S. Army said last month that Black hadnt sought such travel clearance and it wasnt authorized by the Defense Department. Given the hostilities in Ukraine and threats to the U.S. and its military, it is extremely unlikely he would have been granted approval.

Blacks girlfriend, Alexandra Vashchuk, told reporters earlier this month that it was a simple domestic dispute, during which Black became aggressive and attacked her.

He then stole money from my wallet and I didnt give him permission to do it, Vashchuk said.

On Wednesday, she told Russian news outlet Gazeta.ru that she considers the sentence quite humane and described Black as violent and unable to control himself.

U.S. officials have said that Black, who is married, met Vashchuk in South Korea.

According to U.S. officials, she had lived in South Korea, and last fall she and Black got into some type of domestic dispute or altercation. After that, she left South Korea. It isnt clear if she was forced to leave or what, if any, role South Korean authorities had in the matter.
(Bloomberg) -- A Russian judge found US Staff Sergeant Gordon Black guilty of theft and death threats against a local woman hed traveled to visit, adding to the number of Americans held in the country.

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Black, 34, was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison, the Interfax news service reported from the courtroom in Vladivostok, in the Far East region. Investigators had accused Black of grabbing his girlfriend by the neck during a quarrel, which she considered a threat to her life, and stole 10 thousand rubles ($117) from her in May of this year.

His lawyer said they will appeal, according to Interfax. Black had denied making a deadly threat and pleaded partially guilty to the theft charges, saying hed returned the money, according to the news service.

Black flew to Russia for personal reasons and without official authorization, the US Army said in May. He was scheduled to change duty stations from South Korea to Texas, signing out on leave in April, according to the army. Instead of returning to the US, he flew from South Koreas Incheon Airport to Vladivostok, Russia, via China.

Among Americans already held in Russia are businessman Paul Whelan and journalist Evan Gershkovich, both of whom the US classifies as wrongfully detained, as well as dual citizens Alsu Kurmasheva, a journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty whos accused of failing to register as a foreign agent, and Ksenia Karelina, who was detained on treason charges, reportedly tied to a charitable donation to benefit Ukraine after Russias invasion.

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Russian court sentences US soldier to nearly 4 years in penal colony, Russian media reports

Editor's Note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

A Russian court in Vladivostok has sentenced U.S. Staff Sergeant Gordon Black to three years and nine months in a Russian penal colony on charges of theft and uttering death threats, Russian state-controlled news agency RIA Novosti reported on June 19.

Black was arrested in May in the city of Vladivostok after he allegedly stole 10,000 rubles ($112) while travelling to visit a woman believed to be his girlfriend. Black was accused of threatening to kill the woman during a heated exchange, Russian state news agency TASS previously reported.

Black has denied charges that he uttered death threats but partially admitted to the alleged theft, stating that he returned the money to the victim the next day.

According to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Black testified that the victim was severely intoxicated on the day of the incident, throwing punches at Black as he attempted to leave the apartment.

U.S. officials charge that Black, who reportedly met the women while on deployment in South Korea, travelled to Russia through China without informing his superiors.

Black's conviction comes amid riding tensions between Moscow and Washington as a number of U.S. citizens remain in Russian detention. Evan Gershkovich, a U.S. citizen and Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reporter who has been jailed in Russia for over a year, will stand trial in Yekaterinburg on charges of espionage in proceedings set to begin on June 26.

Russia formally accused Gershkovich of spying for the CIA and finalized his indictment on June 13, announcing that he would finally go to trial. Russian authorities have not publicly released any evidence to support the charges.

The U.S. has maintained that the charges against Gershkovich are politcally motivated and "baseless."

In another promiment case, a former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan was also arrested in Moscow on Dec. 28, 2018 and imprisoned on spying charges he denies. He maintains he was visiting Russia to attend a friend's wedding.

The United States has repeatedly warned that U.S. citizens should avoid travel to Russia and those currently in Russia "should consider departing Russia immediately."

Read also: Trial for US journalist Gershkovich jailed in Russia set to begin later in June

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By Khanh Vu and Minh Nguyen

HANOI (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin said he wanted to build a "reliable security architecture" in the Asia-Pacific region during a state visit to Vietnam on Thursday, part of a trip to Asia seen as show of defiance to the West.

A day after signing a mutual defence agreement with North Korea, Putin received a 21-gun salute at a military ceremony in Vietnam, was embraced by two of its Communist leaders and lavishly praised by one of them.

Putin had contributed to "peace, stability and development" in the world, Vietnam's president said.

Putin's visit has drawn criticism from the United States and its allies, who treat the Russian leader as a pariah and have protested that he should not be given a stage on which to defend Russia's war in Ukraine.

Russia and Vietnam signed agreements on issues including energy, underlining Moscow's pivot to Asia after the West imposed sanctions on Moscow over the conflict in Ukraine.

"We are firmly committed to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam, which remains among the priorities of Russia's foreign policy," Putin was quoted as saying by Russian media.

He was quoted by Russia's TASS news agency as saying the two countries shared an interest in "developing a reliable security architecture" in the region based on not using force and peacefully settling disputes with no room for "closed military-political blocs".

At a news conference to wrap up his trip, Putin accused the NATO military alliance of creating a security threat for Russia in Asia, TASS reported.

The 11 pacts signed in Hanoi were not on the same level as the landmark mutual defence agreement in North Korea.

But Putin's warm welcome was a public relations achievement for the Russian leader, who has an outstanding International Criminal Court arrest warrant against him over alleged war crimes in Ukraine, charges he denies.

Neither Russia nor Vietnam is a member of the ICC.

"Putin's triumphal reception in Hanoi will mark a counter-point to Russia's recent setbacks," said Carlyle Thayer, emeritus professor at the Australian Defence Force Academy, listing the recent Ukraine conference in Switzerland and new European Union sanctions on Russia.

They were the latest Western sanctions imposed on Russia since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which Moscow calls a "special military operation".

Putin's public relations blitz has been helped by the fact that Vietnam, unlike North Korea, has friendly relations with the United States and its allies, Zachary Abuza, a professor at the U.S. National War College, said.

"Although, there was a lot less of the fanfare and performative aspects than in North Korea, this visit was still important for Putin because Vietnam is actually an important actor in the global economy, not some comically evil pariah state," Abuza said.

SHARED HISTORY

The military ceremony put on to greet Putin, who was embraced by both Vietnamese President To Lam and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, was the kind reserved for the highest heads of state and rolled out when U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Vietnam last year.

The two presidents witnessed the exchange of 11 agreements and memorandums of understanding, including deals on oil and gas, nuclear science and education.

At another event, Lam said Putin continued to lead Russia "overcoming all difficulties and challenges, at the same time contributing to the peace, stability and development in the region and the world."

Abuza underlined Vietnam and Russia's shared Communist history, with tens of thousands of Vietnamese cadres - including current members of the Politburo - having trained in the former Soviet Union.

US, EU CRITICISMVietnam's hosting of Putin was criticised by the EU and by the United States, now an important partner which upgraded diplomatic relations with Hanoi last year and is Vietnam's top export market.

The U.S. State Department said a top U.S. diplomat will visit Vietnam this week to stress Washington's commitment to working with it to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Kritenbrink "will also reaffirm the United States support for a strong, independent, resilient, and prosperous Vietnam," during his visit, it said.

Separately, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the United States' upgraded partnership with Vietnam did not require Vietnam to sever ties with Russia or China.

An EU delegation spokesperson in Vietnam said Hanoi had the right to develop its own foreign policy, but said Russia's war in Ukraine proved Moscow did not respect international law.

Despite concern over the visit from the U.S. and its allies, Hanoi may have correctly calculated it will not suffer material consequences, said Murray Hiebert, a senior associate of the Southeast Asia Program at Washingtons the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

"I don't think it'll have a long-term impact... the U.S. often gives them a bit of a pass," Hiebert said, noting Washington's heavy reliance on its good relations with Vietnam to counter its rivalry with China in the region.

(Additional reporting by Minh Nguyen Vu in Hanoi, Kay Johnson in Bangkok and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Writing by Kay Johnson; Editing by John Mair, Ed Davies, Timothy Heritage and Andrew Heavens)
Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) said on June 19 that it had identified Russian soldiers who executed Ukrainian prisoners of war (POW) near Zaporizhzhia Oblast's Robotyne last month.

A video taken in the second half of May captured Russian troops executing four surrendering Ukrainian soldiers near Robotyne, a front-line village in the southern Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

The Ukrainian soldiers were made to lie down on their faces, after which they were shot in the back, the video shows. Ukraine's military intelligence stressed that this act constitutes a war crime.

This comes as yet another evidence of Russian war crimes committed against Ukrainian prisoners, both military and civilian, throughout the full-scale war.

The perpetrators were identified as soldiers of the 70th Motorized Rifle Regiment of the 42 Motorized Rifle Division of the 58th Army, the intelligence agency said. The regiment's usual station is the town of Shali in Chechnya.

The names of the alleged perpetrators are Captain Dmitry Nagornyi, Senior Lieutenant Temirlan Abutalimov, Lieutenant Zaur Bekov, and Senior Lieutenant Yusup Imagazaliev.

The intelligence agency also identified the commander of the regiment at the time of the execution as Lieutenant Colonel Yuri Abayev.

"These specific Russian war criminals may also be involved in the murder of several more Ukrainian prisoners of war later in May 2024," the agency said, saying they possess intercepted radio conversation as evidence.

As of March 2024, Ukraine's Prosecutor General's Office collected pretrial information on over 128,000 victims of war crimes. The prosecutors said they are investigating cases of at least 54 Ukrainian POWs being executed by Russia.

Prosecutor General Andrii Kostin said on June 18 that Russian commanders had given orders "not to capture Ukrainian servicemen, but instead to kill them with inhuman cruelty." He made the statement after revealing footage of a Ukrainian soldier beheaded by Russian troops.

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Since the beginning of the day on 19 June, 95 combat clashes have occurred along the front, with the majority of Russian troops concentrating their assault on the Pokrovsk front.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 19:00 on 19 June

Details: On the Kharkiv front, the Russians launched four unsuccessful attacks in the vicinity of Vovchansk and Lyptsi.

On the Kupiansk front, since the start of the day, Ukraines defence forces repulsed 10 Russian assaults on Synkivka, Novoselivka and Stelmakhivka.

On the Lyman front, the Russians attacked Terny, Makiivka and Hrekivka ten times in the past day.

On the Siversk front, Russia launched six attacks on the Ukrainian positions near Verkhnokamianske and Rozdolivka.

Quote: "On the Kramatosk front, the number of enemy attacks has risen to 17. The enemy is seeking ways to penetrate our defences at Ivanivske, Nove, Kalynivka, Pivnichne, Andriivka and Bohdanivka. The defence forces provide a worthy rebuke to the invaders, repelling 13 assault actions while four more still continue. Preliminary reports indicate that the enemy's casualties in this area today were 128 personnel, eight armoured vehicles, and five cars.

On the Pokrovsk front, the invaders do not slow their offensive. Since the start of the day, the enemy has attacked the Ukrainian defence lines 36 times. The aggressor's 30 assaults were unsuccessful, and six more hostile attacks still continue.

Today, ten assaults occurred on the Kurakhove front. Our defenders repelled six attacks by the aggressor's soldiers, with four more still ongoing. An air attack with guided aerial bombs was launched on Kostiantynivka."

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A cloud of smoke from the explosion. Stock Photo: Getty Images

Russian troops hit a residential building in the village of Olhivka, Beryslav district, injuring a 67-year-old woman on the morning of 19 June.

Source: Kherson Oblast Military Administration

Quote: "In the morning, Russian occupiers attacked the village of Olhivka, Beryslav district. The enemy hit a residential building, where a fire broke out due to the attack.

A 67-year-old woman was injured. She sustained blast and craniocerebral injuries, concussion, as well as burns to her head, limbs and chest."

Details: The woman was hospitalised in moderate condition. She is being provided with the necessary medical care.

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The wreckage of a rocket fired by Russian forces on a Kherson hospital. Photo: Kherson OMA

Russian forces targeted a hospital in the city of Kherson with a Grad multiple-launch rocket system (MLRS) on the morning of 19 June, damaging a garage and two ambulances.

Source: Kherson Oblast Military Administration (OMA) on Telegram

Quote: "Russian forces continue to attack medical facilities in Kherson Oblast. One of the hospitals in Kherson came under yet another enemy attack. The invaders fired at least three Grad MLRS rockets. They hit a garage where ambulances were parked.

The aftermath of the Russian attack on a hospital in Kherson.

Photo: Kherson OMA

Details: The strike reportedly damaged two ambulances and smashed windows in one of the healthcare facility's buildings.

The aftermath of the Russian attack on a hospital in Kherson.

Photo: Kherson OMA

"Fortunately, there were no casualties among the hospital staff and patients," the OMA concluded.

An air-raid warning has been issued in Kherson Oblast.

Background: On the night of 18-19 June, the Russians targeted the city of Kherson, with the strikes setting fire to houses and leaving one civilian injured.

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SEOUL, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), greeted visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Pyongyang International Airport, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Wednesday.

Kim shook hands with Putin and embraced him warmly, the report said.

The DPRK leader expressed his joy and gladness to meet Putin again in Pyongyang some 270 days after their meeting at the Vostochny Spaceport in September last year, the KCNA reported.

The Russian president extended his deep gratitude to the DPRK leader for coming to the airport to greet him.

The two leaders had a friendly chat after arriving at the lodging quarters Kumsusan State Guest House, according to the report.

Putin's visit is of great importance in "reliably promoting the strategic and future-oriented development of the DPRK-Russia relations," the report said. 
On 19 June, Ukraines defence forces struck 13 clusters of Russian personnel and three command posts belonging to the Russians. In total, 122 combat clashes occurred in the combat zone.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 22:00 on 19 June

Details: Russian forces launched three missile attacks and 38 airstrikes using 55 guided aerial bombs and deployed 533 kamikaze drones. In addition to this, the Russians launched over 2,900 attacks on the positions of Ukrainian troops and the settlements using tube and rocket artillery, mortars, small arms and the armament of combat vehicles.

On the Kharkiv front, the Russians, supported by aircraft, attacked the districts of the settlements of Lyptsi and Vovchansk six times, but to no avail.

On the Kupiansk front, the Russians made 11 attempts to dislodge Ukrainian units from their positions near the settlements of Synkivka, Stepova Novoselivka, Pishchane and Kruhliakivka.

On the Lyman front, the Russians tried to advance near the settlements of Hrekivka, Nevske, Terny and Serebrianka forest.

On the Siversk front, the situation has not changed significantly. Since the beginning of the day, the Russians have carried out nine assault actions near the settlements of Verkhnokamianske, Rozdolivka and the Novyi district of the settlement of Chasiv Yar.

Quote: "The aggressor has significantly intensified his efforts on the Kramatorsk front. Supported by aircraft, the Russian occupiers assaulted the positions of Ukrainian forces near the settlements of Bakhmut 17 times. There was fighting near the settlements of Bohdanivka, Kalynivka, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka and Andriivka. The situation is tense. Ukrainian forces repelled 12 Russian attacks, five more attacks are ongoing. The defence forces make every effort to deter the enemy on this front.

On the Toretsk front, the Russians made six attacks to breach the defence lines of Ukrainian forces to the east of the settlement of Pivnichne. Ukrainian troops repelled four Russian attacks, and two more clashes are ongoing.

On the Pokrovsk front, Russian forces remain highly active. The number of combat clashes increased to 43. Supported by all means of fire damage available (aircraft, artillery, armament of combat vehicles, attack UAVs, FPV drones and small arms), the Russians keep pushing on Ukrainian troops near the settlements of Oleksandropil, Novooleksandrivka, Kalynove, Yevhenivka, Sokol, Novoselivka Persha and Karlivka. Ukrainian troops repelled 31 Russian attacks, and 12 combat clashes are still ongoing. Ukraines defence forces make every effort to exhaust and deter the Russians on this front.

On the Kurakhove front, there were no changes to the situation. Since the beginning of the day, 10 combat clashes have occurred there. The situation remains tense near the settlement of Krasnohorivka, where the Russians are highly active. Ukrainian units are strengthening their defences."

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The Russian forces have struck the Kharkiv and Kupiansk districts in Kharkiv Oblast on 19 June, killing a woman and injuring three other people.

Source: Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration; State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Details: The Russians struck a porch of a private house in the village of Vilkhivka  a 49-year-old woman was killed and a 60-year-old man was injured. A fire broke out in a private house but was put out by the firefighters.

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

The Russians also struck the village of Novoosynove in Kurylivka hromada in Kupiansk district [a hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories  ed.]. As a result, two civilian women were injured. They were hospitalised.

Photo: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

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Russians strike Toretsk, Rozkishne and Zalizne in Donetsk Oblast, killing one and injuring two

Russian forces struck the settlements of Toretsk, Rozkishne and Zalizne in Donetsk Oblast on 19 June, killing a man and injuring two women.

Source: Anastasiia Miedviedieva, spokesperson for Donetsk Oblast Prosecutors Office, in a comment to Suspilne Donbas

Quote: "At 08:00, Russian troops struck the city of Toretsk, likely from artillery. A projectile struck a porch, and a 76-year-old woman who was inside the house was hospitalised with a shrapnel wound and a fracture."

Details: The Russian army also struck the settlement of Rozkishne in the Illinivka Village Military Administration, likely with a guided reactive projectile with a high-explosive warhead of a Tornado-S multiple-launch rocket system.

Quote: "A 63-year-old man was on a porch during the attack and received fatal injuries."

In addition to this, at 17:00, Russian troops dropped an aerial bomb, likely a KAB-250 guided aerial bomb, on the town of Zalizne. As a result, a 38-year-old local woman received shrapnel wounds.

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By Phuong Nguyen and Francesco Guarascio

HANOI (Reuters) - Russia's President Vladimir Putin praised Vietnam for its "balanced" stance on the Ukraine war and listed progress on payments, energy and trade in an opinion piece published on Wednesday in the newspaper of Vietnam's Communist Party.

In the piece timed for Putin's state visit to Vietnam, he applauded the Southeast Asian Communist-ruled country for supporting "a pragmatic way to solve the crisis" in Ukraine, in comments published in the Nhan Dan newspaper.

Vietnam, which officially pursues a neutral foreign policy in its relations with major world powers, has abstained from condemning Russia's attack on Ukraine, a position that Western countries have considered as too close to the Kremlin.

Putin is due to arrive in Hanoi overnight, and plans to meet Vietnamese leaders on Thursday, on the heels of a trip to North Korea.

The Russian leader, who is making his first visit to Vietnam since 2017 when he attended an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, said Russia and Vietnam also shared "similar assessments of the situation in the Asia-Pacific region."

Vietnam's position on the South China Sea differs from that of China which claims the strategic waterway almost entirely as its own, including gas and oil fields in Vietnam's Exclusive Economic Zone where Russian companies extract oil and gas.

ENERGY AND PAYMENTS

Putin said energy was "an area of strategic importance in bilateral cooperation" and cited Russia-Vietnam joint ventures on fossil fuels in the South China Sea and in northern Russia.

Gazprom also operates gas fields in Vietnam, he noted. Russian energy firm Novatek "plans to launch liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects in Vietnam", Putin said without elaborating.

He also cited an initiative "to establish a Centre for nuclear science and technology in Vietnam" with the support of Rosatom, Russia's state-owned nuclear energy giant.

About a decade ago, Vietnam suspended a plan to develop a nuclear power plant and it is unclear whether it intends to reconsider that position. South Korea and Canada are among countries that have proposed nuclear energy options to Vietnam, according to people familiar with the matter.

Putin also praised progress on finance and trade.

Settling payments between the two countries was made complex by Western sanctions on Russian banks, and the issue has long been a priority in bilateral meetings, officials have said.

Vietnam is historically a big importer of Russian weapons.

Putin said transactions in roubles and Vietnamese dong accounted for 60% of bilateral trade payments in the first quarter of this year, up from more than 40% last year.

"Vietnam-Russia Joint Venture Bank plays an important role in ensuring reliable financial transactions," Putin wrote, referring to a Hanoi-based lender set up in 2006.

He also noted that bilateral trade was increasing.

However Vietnam's trade with Russia remains limited and the United States and China are Hanoi's main trading partners.

(Reporting by Phuong Nguyen, Khanh Vu and Francesco Guarascio; Editing by Ed Davies)
It was Alec Baldwins erratic and aggressive behavior on the set of Rust that led to the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, New Mexico special prosectors assert in newly submitted evidence ahead of his manslaughter trial.

Baldwin displayed reckless behavior as it related to the use of a firearm, such as pointing it and firing a blank round at a crew member while using that crew member as a line of sight as his perceived target, Kari T. Morrissey and Erlinda O. Johnson wrote in Mondays filing. They also accused the actor/producer of eight other acts of negligence.

In the document, prosectors noted several instances in which Baldwin appeared to be careless when it came to gun safety on set. Allegedly, he was distracted during safety training  making videos with the weapon to send to his family  and would fire the gun after cut had already been called.

They further suggested Baldwin would put his finger on the trigger when that was not necessary, would engage in horseplay on the Santa Fe set and would rush armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed. The evidentiary filing is a preview to the case to be made against Baldwin and echoes much of the narrative presented in court for Gutierrez-Reeds conviction.

Baldwins team did not immediately respond to TheWraps request for comment.

On Oct. 21, 2021, the actor shot a prop gun that killed Hutchins, 42, and injured director Joel Souza. Since the incident, Baldwin has faced several lawsuits, both civil and criminal, though he has maintained his innocence.

Most recently, the family of Hutchins filed another lawsuit against Baldwin and others involved in the film  including Gutierrez-Reed, who was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter back in March. She is currently serving 18 months in prison.

Baldwin is expected to stand trial on July 9 on separate manslaughter charges.

The post Rust Special Prosecutors Enter New Evidence Against Alec Baldwin: Erratic and Aggressive Behavior appeared first on TheWrap.
Oklahoma Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters, the far-right conservative extremist at the helm of public schools in the state, has faced significant rebukes from the GOP-led Oklahoma state legislature and Gov. Kevin Stitt, a Republican . These measures come after months of public outcry over Walters leadership, particularly concerning his handling of LGBTQ + issues.

According to Tulsa radio station KRMG, the Oklahoma state budget, signed by Stitt and passed by a supermajority Republican legislature, includes provisions that limit Walters authority. Senate Bill 1122 enhances legislative oversight of Walters actions, specifically targeting his alleged misuse of taxpayer funds to elevate his political profile. The bill mandates that the attorney general ensure proper fund usage and grants the power to intervene if misuse is suspected, potentially leading to criminal charges.

Stitt also issued an executive order seen as aimed at Walters, prohibiting state agencies from entering into sole-source contracts with public relations firms. This move followed criticisms that Walters hired an out-of-state PR firm to arrange national media appearances promoting anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric. Walters agreement with the firm, Vought, pays $200 an hour, a move many have decried as an inappropriate use of public funds.

Walters made national headlines following the death of Nex Benedict, a transgender student who died after a brutal assault in an Oklahoma high school. Benedicts death resulted in scrutiny over Walters history of discriminatory behaviors while in office including appointing Chaya Raichik, a Southern Poverty Law Center -designated extremist who runs the anti-LGBTQ+ Libs of TikTok account, to a state advisory committee.

Walters responded defiantly to these actions. In a statement reported by KRMG, he accused his opponents of attempting to silence him, claiming his efforts were supported by Oklahoma parents who oppose woke indoctrination, radical gender games, and critical race theory. Walters added, This is an unprecedented attack on me and my office and resulted in a disgraceful attempt to silence millions of Oklahoma parents.

Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign, celebrated the legislative actions as a win for accountability. Today is a major victory for Oklahomans who have demanded their legislators hold Ryan Walters accountable for failing their kids, their schools, and their communities, she said. Robinson emphasized that Walters tried to use taxpayer dollars to enhance his political image while neglecting the needs of Oklahomas schools, which rank 49th in the nation for K-12 education.

Nicole McAfee, executive director of Freedom Oklahoma, added, After months of appeals from Oklahomans, the Oklahoma Legislature and Gov. Stitt have finally taken action to curtail Ryan Walterss vanity PR spending and restrict his ability to threaten and misuse taxpayer funding to enact his hateful agenda. Ryan Walters has been the figurehead for policies and rhetoric that create hostile school environments that every day harm Oklahoma students, in situations that have continued to be highlighted since the death of Nex Benedict. Oklahoma students, families, and teachers deserve care and concern about providing the best education possible in an environment that fosters learning and access for all students. Unfortunately, even with todays accountability measures, policymakers across the board continue to fail us in that regard. We deserve better.

Stitt vetoed a third provision that would have required Walters to seek legislative permission before making decisions that could jeopardize federal funds for Oklahoma schools. Walters has faced scrutiny over his refusal to apply for federal grants or comply with federal civil rights laws, risking significant federal funding.

In response to Walters actions, HRC launched the Remove Ryan Walters campaign, mobilizing thousands of calls to state legislators, holding public events, and producing digital ads highlighting Walters failures.
The U.S. government has approved the potential sale of over a thousand loitering munitions, also known as kamikaze drones, a mix of Switchblade 300 and ALTIUS 600M types, both of which have been used in combat in Ukraine, to the Taiwanese armed forces. Large numbers of relatively cheap kamikaze drones would give Taiwan extremely valuable additional capacity to attack Chinese forces during any future conflict across the Taiwan Strait. In particular, the loitering munitions could be used to engage warships in the strait, and especially incoming Chinese landing craft, in response to an amphibious invasion. Altius 600s could also be used to deploy resilient mesh sensor networks over large portions of the strait, which could drastically enhance the targeting efficiency for other Taiwanese weaponry and overall situational awareness. The prospective arms sales announcements follow recent renewed public discussion about a secretive U.S.-led plan to defend the island from an invasion from the mainland by using hordes of uncrewed aerial systems, boats, and underwater vehicles to turn the airspace and waters surrounding the island into a hellscape. Taiwanese forces already train regularly to employ anti-tank guided missiles, among other weapons, against enemy landing craft and amphibious armored vehicles in coastal defense scenarios, as seen in the video below. Loitering munitions would significantly extend the range at which those targets could be attacked and can do so in indirect ways. Taiwanese units could also use the kamikaze drones, especially Switchblades, to attack enemy forces during any ensuing fighting on the island, as well. The longer-range ALTIUS 600Ms could be employed against targets further out, as well, potentially overwhelming defenses and damaging even larger surface vessels by targeting key systems like radars and communications arrays that could leave them combat ineffective. Taiwanese forces on outlying islands in the Taiwan Strait, which is around 110 miles (180 kilometers) wide at its shortest, could also use kamikaze drones to launch other kinds of harassing attacks, including on certain areas along the shore of the mainland. Taiwans Kinmen County sits less than 10 miles from China proper. Just trying to swat down all these drones would suck up valuable anti-air weapons from Chinas on-hand arsenal. A map showing the Taiwanese-controlled outlying islands of Kinmen County (to the northeast just off the mainland coast), Penghu County (to the east in the Taiwan Strait), and the Dongsha Islands (to the southwest), as well as Taiwan itself. The red pin is the location of one of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Armys myriad bases on the opposite side of the Strait. Google Maps The Switchblade 300 and ALTIUS 600M both offer secondary surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, though the latter is much more capable in this regard. They can operate in this role independently or networked together in swarms, which could also help find targets and improve overall situational awareness. Creating very large mesh network swarms, as noted in the opening of this article, can provide massive synergistic effects, especially when it comes to targeting and understanding what the enemy is doing and where. It also complicates the enemys ability to blind their adversary from such intelligence. While this capability may not be included in this initial order, it could very well be where Taiwans intentions are headed in the near future. The U.S. militarys Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced the U.S. State Departments approval of the two prospective deals for Switchblade 300 and ALTIUS 600Ms for Taiwan late yesterday. The U.S. government does not formally recognize Taiwan as an independent country, but reserves the right to sell arms to and otherwise work with authorities on the island. As such, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TERCO), Taiwans de facto embassy in the United States, is listed as the entity that would be buying the kamikaze drones. The Switchblade deal is valued at $60.2 million and includes seven hundred twenty (720) Switchblade 300 (SB300) All Up Rounds (AURs) (includes 35 fly-to-buy AURs) and one hundred one (101) SB300 fire control systems (FCS), according to DSCA. The Switchblade 300s will include versions with anti-personnel and anti-armor capabilities, the notice adds. First line spares packs; operator manuals; operator and maintenance training; logistics and fielding support; Lot Acceptance Testing (LAT); U.S. Government technical assistance, including engineering services, program management, site surveys, facilities, logistics, and maintenance evaluations; quality assurance and de-processing team; field service representative(s); transportation; and other related elements of logistics and program support, are also part of the complete package. Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of eight U.S. Government and two contractor representatives for a duration of up to five years to support equipment fielding, training, and program management, DSCA notes. The proposed sale of ALTIUS 600Ms has an estimated price tag of $300 million. Per DSCA, the complete package consists of the following: Up to 291 ALTIUS 600M-V systems, comprised of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) loitering munition with extensible warhead and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) camera; ALTIUS 600 inert training UAVs; Pneumatic Integrated Launch Systems (PILS); PILS transport trailers; ground control systems; associated support, including spares; battery chargers; operator and maintenance training; operator, maintenance, and training manuals; technical manuals; logistics and fielding support; testing; technical assistance CONUS and OCONUS, including for engineering services; program management; site surveys; facility, logistics and maintenance evaluations; quality assurance and de-processing team support; field service representative support; transportation; and other related elements of logistics and program support. This looks to be the first mention of the ALTIUS 600M-V and it is unclear how this differs from the baseline 600M. The War Zone has reached out to prime contractor Anduril for more information. Implementation of this proposed sale will require assignment of 5 U.S. Government and 12 contractor representatives for a duration of up to two years to support equipment fielding/training and program management, according to DSCA. It is important to stress that these are still prospective sales. If Taiwanese authorities do pursue them, the contents of the two packages and their final costs could change significantly before formal contracts are signed. The Switchblade 300 and ALTIUS 600M represent two very different categories of loitering munition. The 5.5-pound Switchblade 300 typically comes prepackaged in a self-contained launch tube that can be stuffed in a backpack and it can be employed by a single individual via a handheld controller. Multi-round launchers, which can be installed on vehicles or boats, are also available. Each one of the loitering munitions has a warhead similar in size to a 40mm grenade. The Switchblade 300s diminutive size also means it is a relatively short-range and low-endurance system. The baseline version has a maximum reach of some six miles (10 kilometers), but newer versions can extend that out to nearly 19 miles (30 kilometers). The loitering munitions total endurance is around 15-20 minutes depending on how it is configured. The Switchblade 300 is a highly automated system as you can read more about in this past War Zone feature. The ALTIUS 600M is a larger and far longer-ranged design with swarming capabilities, though its exact specifications are unclear. The baseline ALTIUS 600 drone, from which the loitering munition M version is derived, can weigh up to 27 pounds. It has a maximum range of 276 miles (around 440 kilometers) and can stay aloft for at least four hours. Based on what is known about the even more capable ALTIUS 700M, the 600M likely trades range and performance to optimize its destructive capabilities, but would still have exponentially greater reach and endurance than the Switchblade 300. ALTIUS 600Ms are not a man-portable system and, based on the information in the DSCA notice, the examples that Taiwan could receive look set to be loaded into launch tubes mounted on trailers. Those trailers-based launchers could still be very mobile. The Pneumatic Integrated Launch System (PILS) launch tubes included in the potential sale to Taiwan have also been demonstrated in the past fitted to trucks and other ground vehicles, as well as loaded on helicopters. A 44 buggy equipped with two Pneumatic Integrated Launch System (PILS) launch tubes deploys a standard ALTIUS 600 drone during a US Army test. US Army The prospective sales of the Switchblade 300s and ALTISU 600Ms to Taiwan underscore the very real threats that various tiers of kamikaze drones and other uncrewed aerial systems pose, which have now been brought fully into the mainstream thanks to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, they are not new, as The War Zone has repeatedly highlighted over the years. Taiwanese authorities are well aware of this reality and loitering munition designs have been developed domestically already. The 2023 video below from Taiwans National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) highlights various domestic drone developments, including the Chien Hsiang loitering munition. The significant role loitering munitions and other uncrewed platforms will play in any future cross-strait conflict is not lost on Taiwans chief benefactor, the United States, either. For years, U.S. authorities have been pushing their Taiwanese counterparts to acquire more low-cost loitering munitions and drones as part of a larger asymmetric defense strategy, often referred to as the porcupine strategy. Wargames, including those conducted under the auspices of the U.S. military, have continually provided evidence that swarms of relatively cheap networked drones with high degrees of autonomy could have game-changing impacts on any future fight over Taiwan, as you can read more about here. Within the Pentagon, ideas for how to leverage large volumes of uncrewed capabilities in the defense of Taiwan have evolved in the past five to 10 years into a strategy now nicknamed Hellscape. The core underlying concepts of operations, which could also be applied more broadly in a future high-end conflict against China in the Pacific, first emerged publicly last year. The components in INDOPACOM [U.S. Indo-Pacific Command] have been experimenting now for the last five to 10 years with many of those unmanned capabilities. Those will be an asymmetric advantage, now-retired U.S. Navy Adm. John Aquilino, then head of INDOPACOM, told attendees at a conference the National Defense Industry Association (NDIA) hosted in August 2023, according to Defense One. So operational concepts that we are working through are going to help amplify our advantages in this theatertheres a term, hellscape, that we use. They [the Chinese] want to offer the world a short, sharp war [over Taiwan] so that it is a fait accompli before the world can get their act together, Navy Adm. Samuel Paparo, Aquilinos successor as INDOPACOMs top officer, told The Washington Posts Josh Rogin on the sidelines of annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, according to a piece published last week. My job is to ensure that between now and 2027 and beyond, the U.S. military and the allies are capable of prevailing. US Navy Adm. Samuel Paparo, head of US Indo-Pacific Command, speaks at the 2024 Shangri-La Dialogue. USN Petty Officer 1st Class John Bellino In recent years, U.S. and Taiwanese officials have warned that Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) could feel confident in its ability to launch a successful armed intervention against Taiwan by 2027, if not earlier. The Shangri-La Dialogue, which the United Kingdom-based International Institute for Strategic Studies think tank hosts, is intended to offer a unique forum for top military and government officials from countries primarily in the Asia-Pacific region to discuss defense and security issues. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and his Chinese counterpart Minister Dong Jun, as well as Adm. Paparo and many others, spoke at the event his year, which ran from May 31 to June 2. I want to turn the Taiwan Strait into an unmanned hellscape using a number of classified capabilities, Paparo also told Rogin. So that I can make their lives utterly miserable for a month, which buys me the time for the rest of everything. I cant tell you whats in it, he said when asked for more specifics about those capabilities. But its real and its deliverable. Though Taiwans immediate operational requirements could be more limited, It is also worth noting here that 1,000 loitering munitions are a relatively smaller number in the broader context of a future high-end conflict where friendly forces will have to prosecute tens of thousands of targets. In talking about the Hellscape plan last year, Aquilino had explicitly said heres a metric for me: 1,000 targets for 24 hours. Those targets will include a growing array of Chinese uncrewed platforms in the air, as well as on the ground and at sea. The PLA has been making its own substantial investments in loitering munitions and swarming technologies in recent years. A rendering of a notional drone swarm overlaid on top of a map of Taiwan. The War Zone/USAF/CDC So, not just developing, but actually being able to acquire and field very large numbers of loitering munitions and other capabilities in a timely and cost-effective manner will be critical to enabling concepts of operations like Hellscape. This is something the U.S. military is contending with now and is trying to shift the paradigm on through initiatives like Replicator, which has a goal of helping to get thousands of new low-cost aerial drones and other uncrewed platforms with high degrees of autonomy into the hands of U.S. forces in the next two years. A U.S. Army effort to buy Switchblade 600 kamikaze drones, a larger cousin to the Switchblade 300, is among the first tranche of programs to get special attention through Replicator. Altogether, the potential sales of Switchblade 300s and ALTIUS 600Ms to Taiwan are clear reflections of broader trends globally and the kamikaze drones could be important contributors in creating a hellscape to protect the island from a future Chinese invasion. Contact the author: joe@twz.com

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Salisbury council shores up funds for homeless housing at Anne Street Village, all to know

The Salisbury City Council in Monday's work session addressed the needed upgrades to bolster the future of Anne Street Village, the citys first transitional housing community for homeless residents.

By reallocating Community Development Block Grant Funding, originally from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the council was able to provide funding for sidewalk improvements to the Waterside Park project while also leaving grant allocations in place for the amounts of $19,000 for a case manager and $50,000 for Anne Street Village Rehabilitation.

The revision to the resolution was approved unanimously by councilmembers and without public comment.

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That 'pot of money' is staying put

Ron Strickler, left, Brett Sanders, Jake Day and Jake Heath cut the ribbon to open Anne Street Village Friday, April 21, 2023, in Salisbury, Maryland. The village will house 23 people in the units that come equipped with beds, mini refrigerators, a/c units and more.

According to the council, more than one organization has expressed interest in partnering with Salisbury in the operation of Anne Street Village in one capacity or another. The city is now in the process of issuing a Request For Proposals that is geared toward identifying the best partner and plan to help get the best results from the asset.

"This is just a (funding) resolution modification to include Waterside Park and some bathrooms and pavilions to finish those projects," said City Administrator Andy Kitzrow. "After a strategic planning meeting with our housing and homelessness team, we're going to continue to look at the Request for Proposals process, but until we have a decision on what we want to do at Anne Street Village, we're not moving any money from that project."

Salisbury City Council President D'Shawn Doughty echoed those sentiments, noting that "pot of money" needs to stay earmarked for that community.

Kitzrow also added there is currently a draft of the request completed in collaboration with the city's director of procurement. The plan is to have the official request completed and released within one to two weeks. Completing it will entail getting community partners to review the document to ensure it addresses the bevy of needs for Anne Street Village.

"We also have good news that it looks like we're going from 10 occupants to 15. So we're starting to see an uptick and we're well on our way to start filling up the (location). We've had a very productive meeting working with them and we might have a short list of overnight house managers," Kitzrow said.

Who has Shore's best fries? Who has the best french fries in Ocean City and Salisbury? Vote in poll through Friday.

During the June 3 regular City Council meeting, two separate issues were discussed "concurrently," with the first noting the city has no plans to close Anne Street Village. In late March, the city began to "gauge interest from groups and organizations within the Salisbury community to see if any were interested in partnering on the project," said a June 7 statement by the council.

This RFP for Anne Street Village is being sought to find a partner which will help allow the facility to be run at its full capacity by an agency that has a greater level of experience in the care of and management of homelessness, said Mayor Randy Taylor also in the June 7 joint statement.

More on pot pardons in Maryland In landmark move, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore pardons 175,000 on marijuana. All to know.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Anne Street Village funds shored up by Salisbury council. All to know
The Salvation Army of Gaston and Lincoln counties is closing its emergency homeless shelter and will instead focus its efforts on a new homelessness prevention program.

The transition will be gradual, according to a media release.

The last day the Salvation Army will accept new shelter residents will be July 15, and the last day to provide emergency shelter for the remaining residents will be Aug. 31. During this time, shelter staff will work with residents to develop transition plans and explore housing options, a press release said.

The facility, located at 107 S. Broad St., Gastonia, will continue offering the drive-through food pantry, case management, emergency financial assistance and clothing closet programs.

Dwayne Burks, director of The Gateway Gaston, said that the closure of the shelter will make it harder for homeless people, especially families, to find shelter.

"The immediate impact is that we lose 65 potential crisis beds every night, four family rooms included in that. So families continue to find it harder. There are no other options in Gaston except some by application program type things, primarily for women and children," Burks said. "We're going to see more people on the street without a doubt."

Gaston County has no other homeless shelter, which will force those who work with homeless people to send them to Charlotte or Lincolnton, if they can even get there, Burks added.

"Getting to Lincolnton is tantamount to us getting to Texas today. For most unhoused people, it's not an option," Burks said.

He said that he hopes the shelter's closure makes elected leaders more aware of the crisis.

"I hope this brings the awareness of the problem to fuller attention, and I hope that our leadership, our elected, our city managers, our county managers, our faith community leaders, our nonprofit leaders, will finally band together and do something that makes good sense here," he said. "Let's get a proper shelter for overnight and day for this community. We're too big of a community, we're too good of a community, to let this happen. It is embarrassing and shameful that this is happening in our county."

The decision to close the Salvation Army's shelter and transition to a homelessness prevention program was driven by the organization's volunteer-led advisory board and informed by a study conducted in 2023, which found that the emergency shelter program "is not the most cost-effective, transformative way to serve those experiencing temporary homelessness," the press release said.

The Advisory Board spent more than half a year evaluating the Mission Planning Study, ensuring our programs are compassionate, sustainable, cost-effective, and transformative, said Deon Lewis, Advisory Board Chair for The Salvation Army. The emergency shelter has been a tremendous community asset throughout its 20 years of service, but we must acknowledge that solutions have changed and evolved over the past two decades. We firmly believe that shifting from an emergency shelter program to a homelessness prevention initiative will be pivotal in addressing homelessness in our community and doing the most good.

The Salvation Army and Advisory Board are examining successful, comprehensive social services models from over 60 centers across North and South Carolina and drafting a plan focusing on homelessness prevention and Rapid Rehousing that aligns with the needs of individuals in Gaston and Lincoln counties. The new model will engage community volunteerism and collaboration throughout the for-profit and non-profit space. The Salvation Army believes the community is the foundation for success, the press release said.

Jon Montgomery, who has been homeless intermittently for several years, said that without the Salvation Army shelter, there will be no help for people who are homeless in Gaston County.

Jon Montgomery in the parking area of Gastonia Transit Tuesday afternoon, June 18, 2024.

"We got time before winter, but I still think that is a tragedy potentially in the making. A lot of people may die out here, but there is still a fair amount of time before winter, maybe somebody in the community  will step up and figure out a solution," he said.

Montgomery, who most recently worked at Dollar General, making around $400 a week, said that even with the shelter, life on the street is a constant struggle.

"It's kind of destroyed a lot of my hope for a future. It's hard to see a hope at times; it's hard to see a future at times. It's hard to see a life outside of this at times," he said.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Salvation Army to close homeless shelter
HANOI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- The Politburo of the Vietnam's Communist Party on Wednesday agreed to relieve Dinh Tien Dung as secretary of the Hanoi Municipal Communist Party of Vietnam Committee upon his personal request, Vietnam News Agency reported.

Dung will also leave his position as head of the capital's National Assembly delegation.

The Politburo and the Secretariat saw that the Party Committee of the Ministry of Finance for the 2016-2021 term had not properly carried out its tasks when it comes to the mechanisms, policies and management of the issuance of business bonds, including those belonging to the "ecosystems" of Van Thinh Phat property giant and its subsidiary An Dong.

As a high-ranking Party and state official, and as the finance minister for the 2016-2021 term, he must take responsibility as the leader for violations reported at the ministry.

Aware of his responsibility to the Party and the people, he submitted an application to resign from his assigned positions and retire, according to the announcement made by the office of the Central Party Committee on Wednesday.

Dung, 63 years old, hails from Ninh Binh province. He was a Politburo member of the 13th term, and has worked as minister of finance from 2013 to 2021.

In 2021, he was appointed as secretary of Hanoi's Party Committee. 
Lionel Rubalcava talks with Northern California Innocence Project lead attorney Paige Kaneb before his conviction for attempted murder was dismissed on May 15, 2019, in San Jose. (Karl Mondon / Associated Press)

San Jose will pay $12 million to a man who was imprisoned for 17 years for a drive-by shooting he did not commit, the largest settlement paid by the city in a police misconduct case.

The settlement, approved Tuesday by the City Council, came after a federal judge rejected the city's arguments to dismiss a federal lawsuit filed by Lionel Rubalcava, who was convicted of a 2002 gang shooting.

Members of the council approved the settlement but did not issue a statement or comment on the payment.

Rubalcava had been identified by three witnesses but was freed and exonerated in May 2019 after they recanted and cellphone tracking evidence suggested he was driving to Hollister at the time of the shooting.

In the lawsuit, Rubalcava's attorneys argued that police officers Topui Fonua, Joe Perez and Steven Spillman ignored evidence that exonerated Rubalcava and "deliberately misrepresented witness statements" that led to the conviction.

Read more: They were wrongfully convicted as teens. Now L.A. County is paying them $24 million

In her ruling against the city's request to dismiss the case, Judge Beth Labson Freeman wrote that a jury could infer that three San Jose officers "falsified the police reports for the purpose of depriving [Lionel] Rubalcava of constitutional rights."

The case was set to go to trial in August.

"Given the clear evidence of serious police misconduct we would have put on at trial, the cty of San Jose made the right move today," said Amelia Green, one of Rubalcava's attorneys. "Not only should our client never have been prosecuted  the city should have long ago accepted responsibility for Lionel's wrongful conviction."

After his release from Pleasant Valley State Prison, Rubalcava sued the city, arguing that his civil and due-process rights were violated by detectives after they ignored evidence pointing to his innocence.

Read more: Editorial: Board of Supervisors' silent sign-off on $25-million payout fails accountability test

'We are supposed to be able to trust police officers for our protection and safety," Rubalcava said in a statement. "In my case, the San Jose Police Department singled me out and framed me for a crime I didn't commit."

Rubalcava was arrested three days after the April 5, 2002, shooting of 19-year-old Raymond Rodriguez, who was left partially paralyzed.

Police and prosecutors argued during the trial that the shooting had been prompted by a gang rivalry.

But one of the witnesses recanted their testimony at trial, and attorneys for Rubalcava argued that the motive police suggested for the shooting did not make sense because he and Rodriguez allegedly belonged to separate Norteno street gangs and were not rivals.

Rodriguez and his mother both told a detective that they did not think Rubalcava had been the shooter and that Rodriguez had been targeted by rival Sureno gang members.

Rubalcava was freed after the Northern California Innocence Project at Santa Clara University School of Law picked up his case. The Santa Clara district attorney's office then ordered its conviction integrity unit to reexamine the case, and the other witnesses recanted their testimony. The office asked the superior court to vacate Rubalcava's conviction in 2019.

Read more: San Jose State professor suspended over pro-Palestinian work

Rubalcava was represented by attorneys with Neufeld Scheck Brustin Hoffmann & Freudenberger.

"Neither Lionel nor the victims were served by the corrupt police work that led to an innocent man being prosecuted and the true shooter going free," said attorney Nick Brustin. "Lionel's case is yet another example of how racism infects the criminal legal system, in which police too often are willing to prosecute any available young man of color."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN)  The City of San Marcos was given more than $897,000 to improve the condition of the Thorpe Way and Springtown Lane intersection, according to a news release from the city.

Construction for the intersection improvement is set to begin in 2027.

The award was given through the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), which is mandated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and Highway Administration. Local funding is allocated by the Texas Department of Transportation, according to the release.

The improvement plan includes signalization at the intersection, new crosswalks and existing sidewalk repairs to enhance accessibility and safety of pedestrians, motorists and bicyclists, the release said.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

This grant allows us to make critical improvements to a busy intersection while minimizing the financial impact to our community, Director of Engineering and CIP Shaun Condor said in the release.

The HSIP is part of the Texas Strategic Highway Safety Plan. Click here for more information about engineering and Capital Improvement Projects.

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.
Early learning programs and child care are sound economic investments that create a strong foundation for a childs education, health and success.

A recent Florida Chamber report found that Florida loses $5.4 billion in economic value due to parents having to be away from their jobs while caring for children under the age of six. Research by Nobel Prize-winning economist James Heckman showed that every $1 invested in quality early childhood programs can yield returns of up to $16 by reducing future costs.

A childs early years hold the key to their success; numerous studies have proven, and good-old common sense tells us, that children with access to quality early learning are more prepared for kindergarten. They have an increased vocabulary and better language, math, and social skills. As they continue their education, children with access to quality child care are less likely to require special needs education or be held back a grade. They are more likely to graduate high school and go on to college.

Jon Thaxton

These are better outcomes for children and their families that also save taxpayers money.

Unfortunately, on June 5, with a 4 to 1 vote, the Sarasota County Commission ended years of funding for the Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County (ELC). As authorized by Florida statutes, the ELC is responsible for the oversight of local early education services to improve the quality of local child care sites and support school readiness outcomes for all children in Sarasota County.

The disappearance of $500,000 in county funding means that the ELC will no longer be eligible to draw down an additional $500,000 in matching state money, leaving more than 300 children without child care, including children of Sarasota County government employees.

The ELCs successful programs use a two-generation approach to building strong families through quality early education. For years, including this year, the ELC has been highly rated by the county commissions own advisory committee of subject-matter experts. This year the advisory committee ranked ELC among the top agencies qualified to receive county funding.

However, ELC and numerous other critical service agencies were denied funding based on a scheme to overhaul the review process and determine priorities without any input from experts in the field of child development, educators, county staff or the county commissions advisory committee. Unlike the transparent process the county commission has used for decades, this most recent decision on how to spend millions of taxpayer dollars was made behind closed doors.

Kirsten Russell

The countys health and human services, including ELC, are funded with property taxes. So this cut becomes even more objectionable considering that it comes during a year when the same commission approved a 14% property tax increase.

One excuse routinely offered by the commission for cutting human services is to suggest that the local foundations will pay for them. This statement demonstrates the commissions lack of understanding of the historic partnership between the county and philanthropy.

Sarasota is fortunate to have numerous foundations that support many local causes, human services among them. Foundations fund enhanced services in health care, education, culture, the environment and childrens services above and beyond what local governments typically fund.

Matthew Sauer

This enables our community to rise above other Florida communities and has, for decades, distinguished Sarasota County as one of the safest and most desirable communities in which to live, work and play in the Southeast U.S.

Communities with elevated levels of services  available to all residents  are desirable places to live. They are also attractive places for businesses to invest. Needless and thoughtless cuts to childrens services are a step in the wrong direction.

Jon Thaxton is vice president of community leadership for Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Kirsten Russell is vice president of community impact for the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Matthew Sauer is the collaboration and impact officer for Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Investing in child care, early learning is a win-win for Sarasota
SBU: Russian collaborator accused of spying on Ukrainian positions near Bakhmut sentenced to 15-years in prison

A Russian collaborator who spied on Ukrainian positions near Bakhmut in the spring of 2023 has been sentenced to 15-years in prison, Ukraine's State Security Service (SBU) announced on June 18.

According to the SBU, the unnamed man provided geolocations of Ukrainian positions to Russian agents, who then used the intelligence to plan operations involving aerial bombs, artillery, and assault attacks.

The Ukrainian man, a resident of Kostyantynivka in Donetsk Oblast, was detained in May 2023 as he was actively conducting reconnaissance near a military facility. The man was originally recruited by a staff member of Russia's intelligence service and promised payment.

The man regularly communicated with Russian agents using an anonymous account through a messenger app. Text conversations were regularly deleted by the man to avoid detection, according to the SBU.

The collaborator was convicted under article 111 of Ukraine's Criminal Code - acts of treason committed under martial law.

The initial investigation was carried out by the SBU in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts under supervision of the Donetsk regional prosecutor's office.

Read also: Suspected FSB collaborator arrested while plotting terrorist attack against military enlistment office, SBU says





Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters

While Gov. Bill Lees universal school voucher proposal is clearly a key issue this election year, there is less agreement on where Tennessee voters stand on the contentious education policy, incentivizing many state legislative candidates to avoid discussing the matter.

Numerous voter polls have generated wildly different results this year, depending on which organization was behind the survey and how the questions were asked.

As a result, rural Republican candidates, whose legislative votes would be pivotal in deciding the issue, arent generally trumpeting their positions on what would amount to a major policy change.

And when they do comment, the candidates are choosing their words carefully by using the language of school choice over vouchers, even though theyre essentially the same thing when it comes to letting parents use taxpayer money to send their children to private schools.

The divergent poll results, based on representative samplings of voters, underscore that vouchers remain a hot-button education issue as Tennesseans try to understand a complex idea that was the most divisive of the recent legislative session.

More: 'Change to the status quo:' Gov. Bill Lee talks commitment to vouchers during Memphis visit

Previous coverage: 'Cannot stay silent:' Memphis school leaders react to TN voucher bill's failure

Supporters say the statewide voucher proposal, which the governor vowed to bring back to lawmakers next year after it failed to reach the Senate and House floors in April, would put parents in charge of their childrens education by giving them more choices. Critics say it would destabilize public education, bust the states budget, and further segregate schools by race, income, and students with special needs.

Now in his second term, Lee has characterized GOP support across Tennessee as solidly favoring his proposal, which is especially important in a red state where the winner of the Republican primary typically wins the general election.

The Republican governor, who campaigned on the promise of giving parents more education choices for their children, recently told Fox News that school choice is a very popular idea among Republican primary voters. He added that voters support it by an overwhelming margin.

Legislators understand that; they know their voters want this, Lee said.

Gov. Bill Lee smiles as he speaks with Stax Music Academy staff inside of the Stax Museum of American Soul Music as he visits as part of the celebration for the passage of The ELVIS Act, short for the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act, in Memphis, Tenn., on Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

But while vouchers have steadily gained support through the years, surveys of voter attitudes dont necessarily bear out Lees claim.

Three pro-voucher groups  The Beacon Center, Americans for Prosperity, and the American Federation for Children  released findings early this year declaring broad support for expanding school vouchers in Tennessee as they sought to build momentum ahead of critical voucher votes in the General Assembly.

During the same period, the Tennessee Education Association, the states largest teachers organization and a voucher opponent, released results of its own poll showing only 30% of Republican primary voters supported the governors plan.

Most recently, Vanderbilt Universitys poll found Tennessee voters evenly split on the matter.

When asked if they approve of the policy, 45% were in favor of vouchers, 46% opposed them, and 9% said they neither supported nor opposed the idea.

Speaker Cameron Sexton, left, stands next to Governor Bill Lee, right, as he answers a question from the media about school vouchers after a panel consisting of parents, the head of New Hope Christian Academy, and Speaker Cameron Sexton on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at the New Hope Christian Academy library in Memphis, Tenn.

These results show that vouchers remain a controversial issue, said John Geer, the Vanderbilt polls co-director and a distinguished professor of political science.

It is a complex and complicated topic, he added. That makes the issue difficult to measure in a poll.

The uneven findings of various polls stem, in part, from how the questions were framed.

For instance, Americans for Prosperity asked voters: Governor Lee is proposing a school choice program that will enable parents to take back control over $7K of their education tax dollars to educate their child in a private or home school environment if they choose to, giving parents more control over how and where their children are educated. Do you agree with the program Governor Lee is proposing?

More than 70% responded yes.

By contrast, the TEAs survey asked a series of questions delving into the structural and financial impacts that universal vouchers would have on the states public education system.

Governor Bill Lee speaks with parent of a third grader, Tenika Fondren about her experience with the school vouchers after a panel consisting of parents, the head of New Hope Christian Academy, and Speaker Cameron Sexton on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at the New Hope Christian Academy library in Memphis, Tenn.

Among them: Other states that have enacted statewide vouchers saw that 95% of students who benefitted were from wealthy families who had the resources to send their children to private schools or already attended private schools, mostly in rural areas, instead of providing resources to middle-income families and students from across the state. Does knowing this make you more or less likely to support school vouchers?

More than 70% responded that they were less inclined to support the policy.

The Vanderbilt poll, which also examined issues such as abortion, vaccines, and gun control, was conducted this spring, soon after the legislature adjourned.

On vouchers, Vanderbilt pollsters asked: Do you support, neither support nor oppose, or oppose Tennessee giving all parents tax-funded vouchers they can use to help pay for tuition for their school-age children to attend private or religious schools of their choice, instead of attending local public schools?

We dont have an ax to grind, so we tried to be as straightforward as we could, said Geer.

MSCS job cuts: Superintendent Feagins apologizes to staff, but stands by proposed shakeups

More: MSCS third, fourth grade TCAP reading scores increase. What it means for students

About 49% of responding voters also said they were likely to use vouchers if they became available, and 50% said they would not. By a wide margin, Republicans who support former President Donald Trump were the group most likely to use them, while only 26% of Democrats said they would take advantage of the option.

The outcome of the poll on vouchers was very partisan in nature, Geer said.

That partisan lens, he added, was more significant than whether the voter lived in a rural, urban, or suburban district, where access to private schools varies significantly.

I think its another statement about our political climate and the polarization of our country. We really werent able to get past the partisanship, he said.

This years uneven polling results may help explain why many rural Republican candidates arent discussing vouchers or promoting where they stand on the issue when seeking to secure their partys nomination. In suburban and urban districts, which are home to more private schools, both Republican and Democratic candidates are more likely to weigh in or use vouchers as a campaign issue.

Speaker Cameron Sexton speaks about school vouchers during a panel consisting of parents, the head of New Hope Christian Academy, and Governor Bill Lee on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at the New Hope Christian Academy library in Memphis, Tenn.

Rural Republican legislators got some pushback over the governors voucher proposal, so I can understand why they would skirt the issue with primary voters, Geer said. I can understand why they would just say: Im for public education because thats whats important to my rural district.

Debby Gould, president of the League of Women Voters in Tennessee, said legislative candidates can easily cloak their voucher stance by saying they support public education, especially since the Houses 2024 voucher bill bundled the creation of a statewide voucher program with public school reforms.

That muddied the waters a bit, but voters deserve a clear answer to whether they plan to vote yes or no on universal vouchers, Gould said.

Vouchers arent a secondary election issue, she added. Gov. Lee has said its a priority for his administration, so it will be front and center next legislative session.

All 99 seats in the state House and half of the Senates 33 seats are on the ballot this year. Aug. 1 is Tennessees primary election day, with early voting July 12-24. The general election will be on Nov. 5.

You can find more voter information on the Secretary of States website.

Marta Aldrich is a senior correspondent and covers the statehouse for Chalkbeat Tennessee. Contact her at maldrich@chalkbeat.org.

Chalkbeat is a nonprofit news site covering educational change in public schools.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Tennessee voucher voter polls vary widely, candidates avoid the issue
Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel

A coronavirus drive-through testing site at the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center on March 17, 2020, at Jones Beach State Park, New York. It was the first drive-through coronavirus testing site on Long Island. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. (Al Bello | Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Scientists debated the origins of COVID-19 on Tuesday, trading barbs over whether the bulk of evidence available points to a natural spillover event from a wild animal or a virus designed in a lab and then let loose through an inadvertent leak.

The hearing in front of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee was part of ongoing efforts in Congress to apply the lessons learned during the pandemic to prevent or blunt the next outbreak.

Gregory Koblentz, associate professor and director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University in Virginia, said during the two-hour hearing that debate continues in the scientific community about the origins.

The possibility that SARS-CoV-2 was deliberately developed as a biological weapon has been unanimously rejected by all U.S. intelligence agencies, Koblentz testified. While the intelligence community is divided on the origin of the pandemic, most of the agencies have determined that the virus was not genetically engineered.

Residents in Wuhan, China, were first diagnosed with an atypical pneumonia-like illness in December 2019, according to a COVID-19 timeline from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Initial cases all appeared linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market at the time, though there has since been much speculation about the types of research taking place at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Koblentz said he believes the available evidence points to a spillover event from an animal, though he added a research-related accident cant be ruled out at this time.

The lack of transparency and data from the Chinese government has significantly hindered scientists efforts to unify around the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Scientists battle over lab vs. spillover

Richard Ebright, board of governors professor of chemistry and chemical biology and laboratory director at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University in New Jersey, testified he believes a large preponderance of evidence indicates SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, entered humans through a research incident.

Ebright also leveled criticism at fellow panelist Robert Garry, who, along with a handful of co-authors, published an opinion article in the journal nature medicine in March 2020, titled The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2.

In the commentary, Garry and the other scientists wrote, we do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible.

Ebright said during Tuesdays hearing that the opinion article represented scientific misconduct up to and including fraud, a characterization that Garry rejected during the hearing.

The authors were stating their opinion, but that opinion was not well-founded, Ebright said. In March of 2020, there was no basis to state that as a conclusion, as opposed to simply being a hypothesis.

Garry, professor and associate dean of the School of Medicine at Tulane University in Louisiana, argued on behalf of the spillover event during the hearing, testifying that the virus likely didnt move directly from a bat to humans, but went to an unidentified intermediary animal.

The bat coronaviruses are viruses that are spread by the gastrointestinal route, Garry said. For a virus like this to become a respiratory virus  its just going to require too many mutations, too many changes for a bat virus to spill directly over to a human being. That could only really happen in nature with replication through an intermediate animal.

Garry also defended gain-of-function research during the hearing, arguing that it has had some beneficial impact, though he noted that it does need appropriate safeguards and restrictions.

Lawmakers and pundits have used several, often evolving, definitions for gain-of-function research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Society for Microbiology defines it as techniques used in research to alter the function of an organism in such a way that it is able to do more than it used to do.

When research is responsibly performed on highly transmissible and pathogenic viruses, it can lead to advances in public health and national security, Garry testified.

Without gain-of-function research, wed have no Tamiflu. Without gain-of-function research, we wouldnt have a vaccine to prevent cancer caused by infection by the human papilloma virus, Garry said. And without gain-of-function research, we wont be able to identify how novel viruses infect us. And if we dont know how they infect us, we cannot develop appropriate treatments and cures for the next potential pandemic creating virus.

Oversight of funding, research

New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan raised several questions about whether theres enough oversight of how the United States spends research dollars as well as what mechanisms are in place to monitor how private entities conduct certain types of research.

While their research has the potential to cure diseases and boost our economy, unless they accept federal funding, there is very little federal oversight to ensure that private labs are engaged in safe and ethical research, she said.

Koblentz from George Mason University said there is much less oversight of biosafety and biosecurity for private research facilities that dont receive federal funding.

In order to expand the scope of oversight to all privately funded research, (it) would require legislative action, Koblentz said.

Congress, he said, should establish a national bio-risk management agency that would have authority over biosafety and biosecurity regardless of the source of funding.

At the end of the day, it shouldnt matter where the funding comes from in terms of making sure this research is being done safely, securely, and responsibly, Koblentz said.

Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul, ranking member on the committee, said the panel will hold an upcoming hearing specifically on gain-of-function research, including what steps Congress should take to ensure it doesnt put the public at risk.

The next pandemic

Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, said during the hearing that lawmakers must learn from the challenges faced during this pandemic to ensure we can better protect Americans from future potential biological incidents.

Our government needs the flexibility to determine the origins of naturally occurring outbreaks, as well as potential outbreaks that could arise from mistakes or malicious intent, Peters said.

Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, after listening to some of the debate, expressed exasperation that so much attention is going toward what caused the last pandemic and not on how to prepare for the next one.

Given the fact that it could have been either, we know what action we ought to take to protect from either, Romney said. And so why theres so much passion around that makes me think its more political than scientific, but maybe Im wrong.

The United States, he said, shouldnt be funding gain-of-function research and should insist that anyone who receives federal funding follow the standards of the International Organization for Standardization.

The post Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel appeared first on New Hampshire Bulletin.
Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel

A coronavirus drive-through testing site at the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center on March 17, 2020 at Jones Beach State Park, New York. It was the first drive-through coronavirus testing site on Long Island. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. (Photo by Al Bello / Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Scientists debated the origins of COVID-19 on Tuesday, trading barbs over whether the bulk of evidence available points to a natural spillover event from a wild animal or a virus designed in a lab and then let loose through an inadvertent leak.

The hearing in front of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee was part of ongoing efforts in Congress to apply the lessons learned during the pandemic to prevent or blunt the next outbreak.

Gregory Koblentz, associate professor and director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University in Virginia, said during the two-hour hearing that debate continues in the scientific community about the origins.

The possibility that SARS-CoV-2 was deliberately developed as a biological weapon has been unanimously rejected by all U.S. intelligence agencies, Koblentz testified. While the intelligence community is divided on the origin of the pandemic, most of the agencies have determined that the virus was not genetically engineered.

Residents in Wuhan, China, were first diagnosed with an atypical pneumonia-like illness in December 2019, according to a COVID-19 timeline from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Initial cases all appeared linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market at the time, though there has since been much speculation about the types of research taking place at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Koblentz said he believes the available evidence points to a spillover event from an animal, though he added a research-related accident cant be ruled out at this time.

The lack of transparency and data from the Chinese government has significantly hindered scientists efforts to unify around the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Scientists battle over lab vs. spillover

Richard Ebright, board of governors professor of chemistry and chemical biology and laboratory director at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University in New Jersey, testified he believes a large preponderance of evidence indicates SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, entered humans through a research incident.

Ebright also leveled criticism at fellow panelist Robert Garry, who, along with a handful of co-authors, published an opinion article in the journal nature medicine in March 2020, titled The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2.

In the commentary, Garry and the other scientists wrote, we do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible.

Ebright said during Tuesdays hearing that the opinion article represented scientific misconduct up to and including fraud, a characterization that Garry rejected during the hearing.

The authors were stating their opinion, but that opinion was not well-founded, Ebright said. In March of 2020, there was no basis to state that as a conclusion, as opposed to simply being a hypothesis.

Garry, professor and associate dean of the School of Medicine at Tulane University in Louisiana, argued on behalf of the spillover event during the hearing, testifying that the virus likely didnt move directly from a bat to humans, but went to an unidentified intermediary animal.

The bat coronaviruses are viruses that are spread by the gastrointestinal route, Garry said. For a virus like this to become a respiratory virus  its just going to require too many mutations, too many changes for a bat virus to spill directly over to a human being. That could only really happen in nature with replication through an intermediate animal.

Garry also defended gain-of-function research during the hearing, arguing that it has had some beneficial impact, though he noted that it does need appropriate safeguards and restrictions.

Lawmakers and pundits have used several, often evolving, definitions for gain-of-function research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Society for Microbiology defines it as techniques used in research to alter the function of an organism in such a way that it is able to do more than it used to do.

When research is responsibly performed on highly transmissible and pathogenic viruses, it can lead to advances in public health and national security, Garry testified.

Without gain-of-function research, wed have no Tamiflu. Without gain-of-function research, we wouldnt have a vaccine to prevent cancer caused by infection by the human papilloma virus, Garry said. And without gain-of-function research, we wont be able to identify how novel viruses infect us. And if we dont know how they infect us, we cannot develop appropriate treatments and cures for the next potential pandemic creating virus.

Oversight of funding, research

New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan raised several questions about whether theres enough oversight of how the United States spends research dollars as well as what mechanisms are in place to monitor how private entities conduct certain types of research.

While their research has the potential to cure diseases and boost our economy, unless they accept federal funding, there is very little federal oversight to ensure that private labs are engaged in safe and ethical research, she said.

Koblentz from George Mason University said there is much less oversight of biosafety and biosecurity for private research facilities that dont receive federal funding.

In order to expand the scope of oversight to all privately funded research, (it) would require legislative action, Koblentz said.

Congress, he said, should establish a national bio-risk management agency that would have authority over biosafety and biosecurity regardless of the source of funding.

At the end of the day, it shouldnt matter where the funding comes from in terms of making sure this research is being done safely, securely and responsibly, Koblentz said.

Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul, ranking member on the committee, said the panel will hold an upcoming hearing specifically on gain-of-function research, including what steps Congress should take to ensure it doesnt put the public at risk.

The next pandemic

Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, said during the hearing that lawmakers must learn from the challenges faced during this pandemic to ensure we can better protect Americans from future potential biological incidents.

Our government needs the flexibility to determine the origins of naturally occurring outbreaks, as well as potential outbreaks that could arise from mistakes or malicious intent, Peters said.

Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, after listening to some of the debate, expressed exasperation that so much attention is going toward what caused the last pandemic and not on how to prepare for the next one.

Given the fact that it could have been either, we know what action we ought to take to protect from either, Romney said. And so why theres so much passion around that makes me think its more political than scientific, but maybe Im wrong.

The United States, he said, shouldnt be funding gain-of-function research and should insist that anyone who receives federal funding follow the standards of the International Organization for Standardization.

The post Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel appeared first on Source New Mexico.
Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel

A coronavirus drive-through testing site at the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center on March 17, 2020 at Jones Beach State Park, New York. It was the first drive-through coronavirus testing site on Long Island. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. (Al Bello/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Scientists debated the origins of COVID-19 on Tuesday, trading barbs over whether the bulk of evidence available points to a natural spillover event from a wild animal or a virus designed in a lab and then let loose through an inadvertent leak.

The hearing in front of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee was part of ongoing efforts in Congress to apply the lessons learned during the pandemic to prevent or blunt the next outbreak.

Gregory Koblentz, associate professor and director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University in Virginia, said during the two-hour hearing that debate continues in the scientific community about the origins.

The possibility that SARS-CoV-2 was deliberately developed as a biological weapon has been unanimously rejected by all U.S. intelligence agencies, Koblentz testified. While the intelligence community is divided on the origin of the pandemic, most of the agencies have determined that the virus was not genetically engineered.

Residents in Wuhan, China, were first diagnosed with an atypical pneumonia-like illness in December 2019, according to a COVID-19 timeline from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Initial cases all appeared linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market at the time, though there has since been much speculation about the types of research taking place at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Koblentz said he believes the available evidence points to a spillover event from an animal, though he added a research-related accident cant be ruled out at this time.

The lack of transparency and data from the Chinese government has significantly hindered scientists efforts to unify around the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Scientists battle over lab vs. spillover

Richard Ebright, board of governors professor of chemistry and chemical biology and laboratory director at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University in New Jersey, testified he believes a large preponderance of evidence indicates SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, entered humans through a research incident.

Ebright also leveled criticism at fellow panelist Robert Garry, who, along with a handful of co-authors, published an opinion article in the journal nature medicine in March 2020, titled The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2.

In the commentary, Garry and the other scientists wrote, we do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible.

Ebright said during Tuesdays hearing that the opinion article represented scientific misconduct up to and including fraud, a characterization that Garry rejected during the hearing.

The authors were stating their opinion, but that opinion was not well-founded, Ebright said. In March of 2020, there was no basis to state that as a conclusion, as opposed to simply being a hypothesis.

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Garry, professor and associate dean of the School of Medicine at Tulane University in Louisiana, argued on behalf of the spillover event during the hearing, testifying that the virus likely didnt move directly from a bat to humans, but went to an unidentified intermediary animal.

The bat coronaviruses are viruses that are spread by the gastrointestinal route, Garry said. For a virus like this to become a respiratory virus  its just going to require too many mutations, too many changes for a bat virus to spill directly over to a human being. That could only really happen in nature with replication through an intermediate animal.

Garry also defended gain-of-function research during the hearing, arguing that it has had some beneficial impact, though he noted that it does need appropriate safeguards and restrictions.

Lawmakers and pundits have used several, often evolving, definitions for gain-of-function research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Society for Microbiology defines it as techniques used in research to alter the function of an organism in such a way that it is able to do more than it used to do.

When research is responsibly performed on highly transmissible and pathogenic viruses, it can lead to advances in public health and national security, Garry testified.

Without gain-of-function research, wed have no Tamiflu. Without gain-of-function research, we wouldnt have a vaccine to prevent cancer caused by infection by the human papilloma virus, Garry said. And without gain-of-function research, we wont be able to identify how novel viruses infect us. And if we dont know how they infect us, we cannot develop appropriate treatments and cures for the next potential pandemic creating virus.

Oversight of funding, research

New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan raised several questions about whether theres enough oversight of how the United States spends research dollars as well as what mechanisms are in place to monitor how private entities conduct certain types of research.

While their research has the potential to cure diseases and boost our economy, unless they accept federal funding, there is very little federal oversight to ensure that private labs are engaged in safe and ethical research, she said.

Koblentz from George Mason University said there is much less oversight of biosafety and biosecurity for private research facilities that dont receive federal funding.

In order to expand the scope of oversight to all privately funded research, (it) would require legislative action, Koblentz said.

Congress, he said, should establish a national bio-risk management agency that would have authority over biosafety and biosecurity regardless of the source of funding.

At the end of the day, it shouldnt matter where the funding comes from in terms of making sure this research is being done safely, securely and responsibly, Koblentz said.

Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul, ranking member on the committee, said the panel will hold an upcoming hearing specifically on gain-of-function research, including what steps Congress should take to ensure it doesnt put the public at risk.

The next pandemic

Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, said during the hearing that lawmakers must learn from the challenges faced during this pandemic to ensure we can better protect Americans from future potential biological incidents.

Our government needs the flexibility to determine the origins of naturally occurring outbreaks, as well as potential outbreaks that could arise from mistakes or malicious intent, Peters said.

Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, after listening to some of the debate, expressed exasperation that so much attention is going toward what caused the last pandemic and not on how to prepare for the next one.

Given the fact that it could have been either, we know what action we ought to take to protect from either, Romney said. And so why theres so much passion around that makes me think its more political than scientific, but maybe Im wrong.

The United States, he said, shouldnt be funding gain-of-function research and should insist that anyone who receives federal funding follow the standards of the International Organization for Standardization.

The post Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel appeared first on Indiana Capital Chronicle.
Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel

A coronavirus drive-through testing site at the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center on March 17, 2020 at Jones Beach State Park, New York. It was the first drive-through coronavirus testing site on Long Island. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Scientists debated the origins of COVID-19 on Tuesday, trading barbs over whether the bulk of evidence available points to a natural spillover event from a wild animal or a virus designed in a lab and then let loose through an inadvertent leak.

The hearing in front of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee was part of ongoing efforts in Congress to apply the lessons learned during the pandemic to prevent or blunt the next outbreak.

Gregory Koblentz, associate professor and director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University in Virginia, said during the two-hour hearing that debate continues in the scientific community about the origins.

The possibility that SARS-CoV-2 was deliberately developed as a biological weapon has been unanimously rejected by all U.S. intelligence agencies, Koblentz testified. While the intelligence community is divided on the origin of the pandemic, most of the agencies have determined that the virus was not genetically engineered.

Residents in Wuhan, China, were first diagnosed with an atypical pneumonia-like illness in December 2019, according to a COVID-19 timeline from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Initial cases all appeared linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market at the time, though there has since been much speculation about the types of research taking place at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Koblentz said he believes the available evidence points to a spillover event from an animal, though he added a research-related accident cant be ruled out at this time.

The lack of transparency and data from the Chinese government has significantly hindered scientists efforts to unify around the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Scientists battle over lab vs. spillover

Richard Ebright, board of governors professor of chemistry and chemical biology and laboratory director at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University in New Jersey, testified he believes a large preponderance of evidence indicates SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, entered humans through a research incident.

Ebright also leveled criticism at fellow panelist Robert Garry, who, along with a handful of co-authors, published an opinion article in the journal nature medicine in March 2020, titled The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2.

In the commentary, Garry and the other scientists wrote, we do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible.

Ebright said during Tuesdays hearing that the opinion article represented scientific misconduct up to and including fraud, a characterization that Garry rejected during the hearing.

The authors were stating their opinion, but that opinion was not well-founded, Ebright said. In March of 2020, there was no basis to state that as a conclusion, as opposed to simply being a hypothesis.

Garry, professor and associate dean of the School of Medicine at Tulane University in Louisiana, argued on behalf of the spillover event during the hearing, testifying that the virus likely didnt move directly from a bat to humans, but went to an unidentified intermediary animal.

The bat coronaviruses are viruses that are spread by the gastrointestinal route, Garry said. For a virus like this to become a respiratory virus  its just going to require too many mutations, too many changes for a bat virus to spill directly over to a human being. That could only really happen in nature with replication through an intermediate animal.

Garry also defended gain-of-function research during the hearing, arguing that it has had some beneficial impact, though he noted that it does need appropriate safeguards and restrictions.

Lawmakers and pundits have used several, often evolving, definitions for gain-of-function research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Society for Microbiology defines it as techniques used in research to alter the function of an organism in such a way that it is able to do more than it used to do.

When research is responsibly performed on highly transmissible and pathogenic viruses, it can lead to advances in public health and national security, Garry testified.

Without gain-of-function research, wed have no Tamiflu. Without gain-of-function research, we wouldnt have a vaccine to prevent cancer caused by infection by the human papilloma virus, Garry said. And without gain-of-function research, we wont be able to identify how novel viruses infect us. And if we dont know how they infect us, we cannot develop appropriate treatments and cures for the next potential pandemic creating virus.

Oversight of funding, research

New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan raised several questions about whether theres enough oversight of how the United States spends research dollars as well as what mechanisms are in place to monitor how private entities conduct certain types of research.

While their research has the potential to cure diseases and boost our economy, unless they accept federal funding, there is very little federal oversight to ensure that private labs are engaged in safe and ethical research, she said.

Koblentz from George Mason University said there is much less oversight of biosafety and biosecurity for private research facilities that dont receive federal funding.

In order to expand the scope of oversight to all privately funded research, (it) would require legislative action, Koblentz said.

Congress, he said, should establish a national bio-risk management agency that would have authority over biosafety and biosecurity regardless of the source of funding.

At the end of the day, it shouldnt matter where the funding comes from in terms of making sure this research is being done safely, securely and responsibly, Koblentz said.

Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul, ranking member on the committee, said the panel will hold an upcoming hearing specifically on gain-of-function research, including what steps Congress should take to ensure it doesnt put the public at risk.

The next pandemic

Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, said during the hearing that lawmakers must learn from the challenges faced during this pandemic to ensure we can better protect Americans from future potential biological incidents.

Our government needs the flexibility to determine the origins of naturally occurring outbreaks, as well as potential outbreaks that could arise from mistakes or malicious intent, Peters said.

Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, after listening to some of the debate, expressed exasperation that so much attention is going toward what caused the last pandemic and not on how to prepare for the next one.

Given the fact that it could have been either, we know what action we ought to take to protect from either, Romney said. And so why theres so much passion around that makes me think its more political than scientific, but maybe Im wrong.

The United States, he said, shouldnt be funding gain-of-function research and should insist that anyone who receives federal funding follow the standards of the International Organization for Standardization.

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The post Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel appeared first on Oklahoma Voice.
Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel

A coronavirus drive-through testing site at the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center on March 17, 2020 at Jones Beach State Park, New York. It was the first drive-through coronavirus testing site on Long Island. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Scientists debated the origins of COVID-19 this week, trading barbs over whether the bulk of evidence available points to a natural spillover event from a wild animal or a virus designed in a lab and then let loose through an inadvertent leak.

The hearing Tuesday in front of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee was part of ongoing efforts in Congress to apply the lessons learned during the pandemic to prevent or blunt the next outbreak.

Gregory Koblentz, associate professor and director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University in Virginia, said during the two-hour hearing that debate continues in the scientific community about the origins.

The possibility that SARS-CoV-2 was deliberately developed as a biological weapon has been unanimously rejected by all U.S. intelligence agencies, Koblentz testified. While the intelligence community is divided on the origin of the pandemic, most of the agencies have determined that the virus was not genetically engineered.

Residents in Wuhan, China, were first diagnosed with an atypical pneumonia-like illness in December 2019, according to a COVID-19 timeline from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Initial cases all appeared linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market at the time, though there has since been much speculation about the types of research taking place at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Koblentz said he believes the available evidence points to a spillover event from an animal, though he added a research-related accident cant be ruled out at this time.

The lack of transparency and data from the Chinese government has significantly hindered scientists efforts to unify around the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Scientists battle over lab vs. spillover

Richard Ebright, board of governors professor of chemistry and chemical biology and laboratory director at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University in New Jersey, testified he believes a large preponderance of evidence indicates SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, entered humans through a research incident.

Ebright also leveled criticism at fellow panelist Robert Garry, who, along with a handful of co-authors, published an opinion article in the journal Nature Medicine in March 2020, titled The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2.

In the commentary, Garry and the other scientists wrote, we do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible.

Ebright said during Tuesdays hearing that the opinion article represented scientific misconduct up to and including fraud, a characterization that Garry rejected during the hearing.

The authors were stating their opinion, but that opinion was not well-founded, Ebright said. In March of 2020, there was no basis to state that as a conclusion, as opposed to simply being a hypothesis.

Garry, professor and associate dean of the School of Medicine at Tulane University in Louisiana, argued on behalf of the spillover event during the hearing, testifying that the virus likely didnt move directly from a bat to humans, but went to an unidentified intermediary animal.

The bat coronaviruses are viruses that are spread by the gastrointestinal route, Garry said. For a virus like this to become a respiratory virus  its just going to require too many mutations, too many changes for a bat virus to spill directly over to a human being. That could only really happen in nature with replication through an intermediate animal.

Garry also defended gain-of-function research during the hearing, arguing that it has had some beneficial impact, though he noted that it does need appropriate safeguards and restrictions.

Lawmakers and pundits have used several, often evolving, definitions for gain-of-function research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Society for Microbiology defines it as techniques used in research to alter the function of an organism in such a way that it is able to do more than it used to do.

When research is responsibly performed on highly transmissible and pathogenic viruses, it can lead to advances in public health and national security, Garry testified.

Without gain-of-function research, wed have no Tamiflu. Without gain-of-function research, we wouldnt have a vaccine to prevent cancer caused by infection by the human papilloma virus, Garry said. And without gain-of-function research, we wont be able to identify how novel viruses infect us. And if we dont know how they infect us, we cannot develop appropriate treatments and cures for the next potential pandemic creating virus.

Oversight of funding, research

New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan raised several questions about whether theres enough oversight of how the United States spends research dollars as well as what mechanisms are in place to monitor how private entities conduct certain types of research.

While their research has the potential to cure diseases and boost our economy, unless they accept federal funding, there is very little federal oversight to ensure that private labs are engaged in safe and ethical research, she said.

Koblentz from George Mason University said there is much less oversight of biosafety and biosecurity for private research facilities that dont receive federal funding.

In order to expand the scope of oversight to all privately funded research, (it) would require legislative action, Koblentz said.

Congress, he said, should establish a national bio-risk management agency that would have authority over biosafety and biosecurity regardless of the source of funding.

At the end of the day, it shouldnt matter where the funding comes from in terms of making sure this research is being done safely, securely and responsibly, Koblentz said.

Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul, ranking member on the committee, said the panel will hold an upcoming hearing specifically on gain-of-function research, including what steps Congress should take to ensure it doesnt put the public at risk.

The next pandemic

Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, said during the hearing that lawmakers must learn from the challenges faced during this pandemic to ensure we can better protect Americans from future potential biological incidents.

Our government needs the flexibility to determine the origins of naturally occurring outbreaks, as well as potential outbreaks that could arise from mistakes or malicious intent, Peters said.

Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, after listening to some of the debate, expressed exasperation that so much attention is going toward what caused the last pandemic and not on how to prepare for the next one.

Given the fact that it could have been either, we know what action we ought to take to protect from either, Romney said. And so why theres so much passion around that makes me think its more political than scientific, but maybe Im wrong.

The United States, he said, shouldnt be funding gain-of-function research and should insist that anyone who receives federal funding follow the standards of the International Organization for Standardization.

The post Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
HANOI, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam's tuna exports are projected to reach 456.8 million U.S. dollars in the first half of 2024, a year-on-year increase of 20 percent, Vietnam News Agency reported Wednesday, citing the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers.

Cao Thi Kim Lan, director of the Binh Dinh province's Fisheries Joint Stock Company, said the exports could reach 1 billion dollars again this year if the raw material shortages are resolved.

She proposed the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development consider amending regulations so that the certificates of raw materials could be issued immediately when loading and unloading are completed from fishing vessels under the supervision of port staff.

According to experts, Vietnam rose from the eighth place in the list of the world's largest tuna exporters 10 years ago to the fifth position in 2023, behind Thailand, Ecuador, Spain, and China.

The country's tuna exports rose by 22 percent in the first five months of this year to 388 million dollars. Exports to Israel, Russia and South Korea rose significantly by 64 percent, 58 percent and 66 percent, respectively, said the association. 
Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel

A coronavirus drive-through testing site at the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center on March 17, 2020 at Jones Beach State Park, New York. It was the first drive-through coronavirus testing site on Long Island. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020.

A coronavirus drive-through testing site at the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center on March 17, 2020 at Jones Beach State Park, New York. It was the first drive-through coronavirus testing site on Long Island. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic on March 11, 2020. (Al Bello/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Scientists debated the origins of COVID-19 on Tuesday, trading barbs over whether the bulk of evidence available points to a natural spillover event from a wild animal or a virus designed in a lab and then let loose through an inadvertent leak.

The hearing in front of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee was part of ongoing efforts in Congress to apply the lessons learned during the pandemic to prevent or blunt the next outbreak.

Gregory Koblentz, associate professor and director of the Biodefense Graduate Program at George Mason University in Virginia, said during the two-hour hearing that debate continues in the scientific community about the origins.

The possibility that SARS-CoV-2 was deliberately developed as a biological weapon has been unanimously rejected by all U.S. intelligence agencies, Koblentz testified. While the intelligence community is divided on the origin of the pandemic, most of the agencies have determined that the virus was not genetically engineered.

Residents in Wuhan, China, were first diagnosed with an atypical pneumonia-like illness in December 2019, according to a COVID-19 timeline from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Initial cases all appeared linked to the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market at the time, though there has since been much speculation about the types of research taking place at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Koblentz said he believes the available evidence points to a spillover event from an animal, though he added a research-related accident cant be ruled out at this time.

The lack of transparency and data from the Chinese government has significantly hindered scientists efforts to unify around the origin of COVID-19, he said.

Scientists battle over lab vs. spillover

Richard Ebright, board of governors professor of chemistry and chemical biology and laboratory director at the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University in New Jersey, testified he believes a large preponderance of evidence indicates SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, entered humans through a research incident.

Ebright also leveled criticism at fellow panelist Robert Garry, who, along with a handful of co-authors, published an opinion article in the journal nature medicine in March 2020, titled The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2.

In the commentary, Garry and the other scientists wrote, we do not believe that any type of laboratory-based scenario is plausible.

Ebright said during Tuesdays hearing that the opinion article represented scientific misconduct up to and including fraud, a characterization that Garry rejected during the hearing.

The authors were stating their opinion, but that opinion was not well-founded, Ebright said. In March of 2020, there was no basis to state that as a conclusion, as opposed to simply being a hypothesis.

Garry, professor and associate dean of the School of Medicine at Tulane University in Louisiana, argued on behalf of the spillover event during the hearing, testifying that the virus likely didnt move directly from a bat to humans, but went to an unidentified intermediary animal.

The bat coronaviruses are viruses that are spread by the gastrointestinal route, Garry said. For a virus like this to become a respiratory virus  its just going to require too many mutations, too many changes for a bat virus to spill directly over to a human being. That could only really happen in nature with replication through an intermediate animal.

Garry also defended gain-of-function research during the hearing, arguing that it has had some beneficial impact, though he noted that it does need appropriate safeguards and restrictions.

Lawmakers and pundits have used several, often evolving, definitions for gain-of-function research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The American Society for Microbiology defines it as techniques used in research to alter the function of an organism in such a way that it is able to do more than it used to do.

When research is responsibly performed on highly transmissible and pathogenic viruses, it can lead to advances in public health and national security, Garry testified.

Without gain-of-function research, wed have no Tamiflu. Without gain-of-function research, we wouldnt have a vaccine to prevent cancer caused by infection by the human papilloma virus, Garry said. And without gain-of-function research, we wont be able to identify how novel viruses infect us. And if we dont know how they infect us, we cannot develop appropriate treatments and cures for the next potential pandemic creating virus.

Oversight of funding, research

New Hampshire Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan raised several questions about whether theres enough oversight of how the United States spends research dollars as well as what mechanisms are in place to monitor how private entities conduct certain types of research.

While their research has the potential to cure diseases and boost our economy, unless they accept federal funding, there is very little federal oversight to ensure that private labs are engaged in safe and ethical research, she said.

Koblentz from George Mason University said there is much less oversight of biosafety and biosecurity for private research facilities that dont receive federal funding.

In order to expand the scope of oversight to all privately funded research, (it) would require legislative action, Koblentz said.

Congress, he said, should establish a national bio-risk management agency that would have authority over biosafety and biosecurity regardless of the source of funding.

At the end of the day, it shouldnt matter where the funding comes from in terms of making sure this research is being done safely, securely and responsibly, Koblentz said.

Kentucky Republican Sen. Rand Paul, ranking member on the committee, said the panel will hold an upcoming hearing specifically on gain-of-function research, including what steps Congress should take to ensure it doesnt put the public at risk.

The next pandemic

Committee Chairman Gary Peters, a Michigan Democrat, said during the hearing that lawmakers must learn from the challenges faced during this pandemic to ensure we can better protect Americans from future potential biological incidents.

Our government needs the flexibility to determine the origins of naturally occurring outbreaks, as well as potential outbreaks that could arise from mistakes or malicious intent, Peters said.

Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney, after listening to some of the debate, expressed exasperation that so much attention is going toward what caused the last pandemic and not on how to prepare for the next one.

Given the fact that it could have been either, we know what action we ought to take to protect from either, Romney said. And so why theres so much passion around that makes me think its more political than scientific, but maybe Im wrong.

The United States, he said, shouldnt be funding gain-of-function research and should insist that anyone who receives federal funding follow the standards of the International Organization for Standardization.

The post Scientists argue over the origins of COVID-19 before U.S. Senate panel appeared first on Kansas Reflector.
Do you struggle to get a good night's sleep? It may be making you slow and dumb, according to new research.

That's what a quintet of researchers in Mexico concluded in a new paper published in the journal Experimental Brain Research and highlighted by PsyPost.

The scientists examined how sleep deprivation reduces people's attention spans and their capacity to respond quickly by measuring the ability of 22 undergraduate students to detect visual targets during a five day period of escalating sleep deprivation.

For the first two days, students slept normally. But then the researchers forced the students to go without sleep for 24 hours, and then had them recover from that bout of sleeplessness for two days.

Periodically, the scientists administered a test called the Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP), which entailed flashing the students with two number targets that appeared in quick succession on a computer screen. Mixed in with these numbers were letters meant to distract the viewer.

The RSVP test is meant to measure students' ability to look for that quickly appearing second target, which most people can't pick up because humans have trouble detecting objects or events that appear rapidly one after another  a cognitive condition called the attentional blink, which is a "phenomenon that reflects difficulty in detecting or identifying the second of two successive targets... that are presented in rapid succession, between 200-500ms apart," the researchers wrote.

During the study period, researchers measured the students' capability of performing the RSVP task in relation to the attentional blink phenomenon. Basically, the scientists measured how they responded to visual targets and how long it took to detect them.

After experiencing no sleep for 24 hours, students' ability to detect the number targets decreased substantially in accuracy, while it also took a longer time for them to detect the targets. Typically, people experience attentional blink at around 200 to 500 ms, and yet sleepy college students had trouble detecting the target even when given a longer amount of time such as 600 ms.

Basically, lack of sleep sapped the student's accuracy and attention while making them slow to react. Recovering from their sleepless 24 hours, fortunately, also restored their attention spans and reaction time.

"The main takeaway is that skipping a night of sleep can increase the risk of making errors," study first author and Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon psychology professor Carlos Gallegos told PsyPost. "While some errors are harmless (such as misreading a word while studying), others can be fatal (like pressing the accelerator instead of the brake while driving). Its important to emphasize that when we push capacities like attention and memory to their limits (as it occurs in the attentional blink), theres always a chance of error, even during the day or without sleep deprivation."

That's something to consider next time you consider forgoing sleep but have a task the next day that has little room for error  like operating a long haul truck, for instance.

Simply put, sleep is good for you. Get some!

More on sleep: If There's Any Light in Your Room When You Sleep, This Research Might Worry You
Fast radio bursts flash in the sky over Earth. | Credit: NRAO Outreach/T. Jarrett (IPAC/Caltech); B. Saxton, NRAO/AUI/NSF

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are intense, short-lived blasts of radio waves hailing from beyond the Milky Way that can emit the same amount of energy in just thousandths of a second that the sun takes three days to emit.

However, despite their power and the fact that around 10,000 FRBs could erupt in the sky over Earth every day, these blasts of radiowaves remain mysterious. One of the biggest puzzles surrounding FRBs is why most flash once and then disappear while a tiny minority (less than 3 percent) repeat the flash. This has led scientists on a quest to discover the mechanisms that launch FRBs. Some even believe different celestial objects can produce both repeating and non-repeating FRBs.

Scientists from the University of Toronto used the Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) to focus on properties of polarized light associated with 128 non-repeating FRBs. This revealed the one-off FRBs seem to originate in faraway galaxies that are much like our own Milky Way, as opposed to the extreme environments that launch their repeating cousins. The results could bring scientists closer to cracking the lingering celestial puzzle of FRBs at last.

Related: Hubble tracks farthest and most powerful fast radio burst back to 'blob' of 7 galaxies

"So far, when we've thought about FRBs, we've only looked at them in the same way that we would look at a star in the sky, thinking about how bright it is, maybe figuring out how away far it is, things like that," research lead author Ayush Pandhi, a Ph.D. student at the Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics and the David A. Dunlap Department of Astronomy & Astrophysics at the University of Toronto, told Space.com. "However, FRBs are special because they also emit polarized light, meaning the light coming from these sources is all oriented in one direction."

The key difference about this research is it really drilled down on the investigation of polarized light.

Polarized light is made up of waves that are orientated in the same way  vertically, horizontally, or at an angle between those two directions. Changes in polarization could explain the mechanism that launched the FRB and thus reveal what its source was. Polarization can also reveal details about what environments the FRB needed to traverse before reaching our detectors on Earth. This study represented the first large-scale look at the non-repeating 97% of FRBs in polarized light.

There has been a gap in non-repeating FRB research because it is much easier to observe repeating FRBs as astronomers already know where they are going to occur, meaning it is possible to point any radio telescope at that patch of sky and wait. With non-repeating FRBs, astronomers must have a telescope that can look at a large area of the sky all at once because they don't really know where the signal will come from.

"They could pop up anywhere in the sky. CHIME is unique in that sense because it looks at such a large patch of the sky all at once," Pandhi said. "Also, people have not really looked at that polarization yet because it's much harder to detect just on a technical level.

"Other studies have looked at the polarization of maybe 10 non-repeating FRBs, but this is the first time where we've looked at more than 100. It allows us to reconsider what we think FRBs are and see how repeating and non-repeating FRBs may be different."

To repeat or not to repeat?

In 2007, astronomers Duncan Lorimer and David Narkevic, who was Lorimer's student at the time, discovered the first FRB. It was a non-repeating burst of energy that's now commonly referred to as the "Lorimer Burst." Five years after this, in 2012, astronomers discovered the first repeating FRB: FRB 121102. Then, more repeating bursts gradually revealed themselves.

Astronomers naturally wonder whether there is a different phenomenon behind these two types of FRBs. And Pandhi 's team indeed found that non-repeating FRBs seem to be a little different from repeating FRBs, as most of the former seem to come from galaxies like our own Milky Way.

An illustration of the CHIME observatory.

While the origins of FRBs are shrouded in mystery, these bursts of radiowaves can act as messengers of the environments they pass through while racing to Earth. That information is encoded in their polarization.

"If the polarized light passes through electrons and magnetic fields, the angle at which it's polarized rotates, and we can measure that rotation," Pandhi said "So if an FRB passes through more material, it'll rotate more. If it passes through less, it'll rotate less."



The fact that the polarization of non-repeating FRBs is less than that of repeating FRBs indicates the former seems to pass through less material or weaker magnetic fields than the latter. Pandhi added that, while repeating blasts of radiation seem to be coming from more extreme environments (like the remains of stars that have died in supernova explosions) their non-repeating brethren seem to emerge in slightly less violent environments.

"Non-repeating FRBs tend to come from environments that have either weaker magnetic fields or less stuff around them than repeating FRBs," Pandhi continued. "So repeating FRBs seem to be a little bit more extreme in that sense."

An artist's impression of a fast radio burst (FRB) reaching Earth, with colors signifying different wavelengths.

Are neutron stars off the hook?

One of the big surprises this research delivered for Pandhi was that the polarization of non-repeating FRBs seems to clear one of the major suspects behind their launch: highly magnetized, rapidly spinning neutron stars, or "pulsars."

"We know how pulsars work and we know the types of polarized light we expect to see from a pulsar system. Surprisingly, we don't see that much similarity between FRBs and pulsar light," Pandhi said."If these things are coming from the same type of object, you might expect that they have some similarities, but it seems that they're actually pretty different."



In terms of figuring out what objects launch FRBs, Pandhi thinks expanding our understanding of the polarization of these bursts of radiowaves could help narrow down theoretical predictions.

"If we're confused between multiple different theories, we can now look at the polarized light and say, 'Okay, well, does this rule out any theories that we haven't already ruled out?'" he said. "It provides another parameter, or even a few extra parameters, to help us rule out theories about what they could be until we have one that sticks."

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Pandhi continued by explaining that this study has laid the groundwork for future FRB investigations; he, himself, is working on a way to disentangle polarization of FRBs that occurred in the Milky Way from those that occurred in their other galaxies and closer to the source of their emission.

This should help us better understand the mechanisms behind the launch of FRBs, but for Pandhi, it is the mysterious nature of these cosmic blasts of energy that ensures he will be investigating them for some time to come.

"I mean, what's more mysterious than explosions happening thousands of times per day all over the sky, and you have no idea what's causing them?" Pandhi said. "If you're a little bit of a detective who likes to solve mysteries, FRBs are just a mystery that is just begging to be solved."

The team's research was published on Tuesday (June 11) in the Astrophysical Journal.

Originally posted on Space.com .
This article is part of TPM Cafe, TPMs home for opinion and news analysis.

Ahead of the November presidential election, voters are navigating changing electoral maps, changing state voting laws, and an unprecedented and deeply troubling situation our country has yet to face: one candidate for president has been convicted of a felony in state court and three more felony criminal cases are pending against him. Fully 48 percent of voters say reaching a verdict in Donald Trumps federal election interference trial is critical before November. But thanks to the Supreme Court, they will enter the voting booth without knowing if Trump has been found guilty of a federal crime.

The Supreme Court has slow-walked Trumps criminal cases at every turn. In December 2023, the Court denied the Department of Justices request to hear Trumps claim that he is absolutely immune from criminal prosecution, opting to instead let the question make its way up to the justices through the lower courts. After the D.C. Circuit heard Trumps argument and decided unanimously against him within 28 days, the Supreme Court waited 22 days before it announced it would indeed hear Trumps claim of presidential immunity, scheduling oral arguments for the last day of its term, 57 days later. The ultra-conservative Supreme Court has weaponized time to delay accountability for their friend Donald Trump and influence the November election.

The immunity question stemming from Trump v. United States isnt the first time the Supreme Court has heard a crucial electoral case. In past cases, the justices acted with the swiftness and urgency that those cases demanded. It only took the Court three days to hand down a decision in Bush v. Gore. A decision only took two weeks in U.S. v Nixon. But todays 6-3 conservative Court introduced significant delay and procedural hurdles to give Donald Trump what he needs most for his legal defense: time. Friendly justices have given him nearly five months of it  so far. This delay comes despite the fact that the justices are hearing fewer cases today than at almost any other time in the Courts history. The Roberts Court has been consistently deciding fewer cases each term.

It is increasingly obvious to Americans who are paying attention that the Supreme Court is no longer a neutral arbiter of the law, but a partisan outfit willing to protect its political allies and overturn long-established precedents like Roe v. Wade for ideological reasons. Nearly 6 in 10 of Americans view the Court negatively. In the 2000s and much of the 2010s, the Court enjoyed approval ratings above 50 or 60 percent. This new scrutiny comes as Americans have been given a front row seat to numerous ethical scandals on the Court. Trump v. United States presents an obvious conflict of interest for Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito. Ginni Thomas efforts to overturn the 2020 election are well known. Rather than recuse himself and despite the Courts new sham of a code of conduct, Justice Thomas ignored calls from legal experts and Democratic lawmakers. After revelations that a Stop the Steal flag flew at Samuel Alitos residence, Justice Alito joined Justice Thomas in disregarding calls to remove himself from the case, thumbing his nose at Congress and federal laws requiring justices to recuse themselves when their impartiality might reasonably be questioned. We simply cannot trust the justices to rule without bias and uphold the integrity of our elections when theyre so clearly aligned with Donald Trump.

Congress has the power to rein in the Supreme Court through robust legislation. The Supreme Court Ethics, Recusal, and Transparency Act which would require the justices to abide by a code of conduct with actual enforcement mechanisms. Nearly 7 in 10 Americans support a real code of conduct for the Supreme Court.

Congress also has critical legislation in the Supreme Court Tenure Establishment and Retirement Modernization Act, which was re-introduced by Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA). The TERM Act would create 18-year terms for current and future Supreme Court justices. By an overwhelming 40-point margin  64 percent to 24 percent  voters favor congressional action to set 18-year term limits. With that level of support, one may ask, whats Congress waiting for?

Americans should be able to trust Supreme Court justices to carry out their duties impartially and ethically, but their undemocratic decisions and delaying tactics clearly demonstrate theyre not working on behalf of the American people. Months before the November election, were already seeing the immense impact these politicians in robes will have on the 2024 election. It is ludicrous to sit by and wait for another scandal or another decision that reeks of extremism and partisanship. The Supreme Court has proven numerous times it will not reform itself. Congress must step up and reform this unchecked Court.
On Tuesday Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison introduced legislation to curb illegal street racing and takeover events in Seattle.

The legislation would adopt the states expanded definition of street racing which includes street takeovers and drifting.

Washington States expanded street racing definition was adopted in 2023 and went into effect Jan. 1.

Davisons proposed legislation also includes a $500 fine for vehicle owners.

Seattle has seen an increase in street racing and street takeover events over the past few years.

Last July a woman was shot and killed when an illegal street racing event on Capitol Hill ended in gunfire. Three others were also injured in the shooting.

In May KIRO 7 covered a takeover event in Lower Queen Anne where a driver was caught on video doing donuts drifting around a police vehicle.

This legislation responds to the recent rise in large street racing takeover events that pose a safety hazard to the public  pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers, said City Attorney Davison.
A secret recording has revealed the plan of Trump political consultant Roger Stone to help the former president challenge the 2024 election results.

Liberal journalist Lauren Windsor provided Rolling Stone magazine with a recording in which the self-described dirty trickster says Donald Trump and his allies are on an offensive footing and that theyre better prepared than they were during 2020.

At least this time when they do it, you have a lawyer and a judge  his home phone number standing by  so you can stop it, Stone says on the recording. We made no preparations last time, none  There are technical, legal steps that we have to take to try and have a more honest election. Were not there yet, but theres things that can be done.

The recording includes conversations between Stone and Windsor as well as ones between Stone and Windsors colleague Ally Sammarco. The audio was recorded at a Catholic Prayer for Trump event on March 19 at Mar-a-Lago.

On the recording, Stone appears optimistic about Trumps electoral chances as well as about the former presidents deepening legal woes, suggesting that Florida Judge Aileen Cannon is about the dismiss the case brought by the Department of Justice regarding Trumps alleged mishandling of classified documents.

We are beating them, Stone says on the audio, before he goes on to say that Trumps trial in Georgia is falling apart. I think the judge is on the verge of dismissing the charges against him in Florida. Theyre delayed in New York City and theyre now delayed in Washington.

Political consultant Roger Stone speaks at The Peoples Convention, a gathering of prominent conservatives organized by the political group Turning Point Action, in Detroit. A new secert recording reveals his plan to help Trump challenge the 2024 election. (EPA)

Trump has since been convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to corruptly subvert the outcome of the 2016 election. Trump directed a hush money payment to be made to adult actor Stormy Daniels to keep her quiet about an alleged 2006 affair in lead up to the election and in the aftermath of the release of the Access Hollywood tape on which he bragged about sexually assaulting women.

While Judge Cannon has made rulings beneficial to Trump in the classified documents case, she rejected an effort to have it dismissed last week.

At one point during the recording, Sammarco asks Stone what will stop Trumps opponents from committing voter fraud such as via ballot harvesting. Stone says, In some states, itll be easier to stop. In other places, it wont.

He adds that they should be suing in half a dozen places.

Were finally now on an offensive footing, he says, before going on to note that now that the Republican National Committee is in the hands of Trump allies, they can spend more money on monitoring elections.

NEW UNDERCOVER inside Mar-a-Lago: Trump Ally Roger Stones Plan to Win Election Relies on Judges and Courts pic.twitter.com/SNdcdCqcl7  Lauren Windsor (@lawindsor) June 18, 2024

Stone also mentions changes in state law, real-time voter list monitoring, going to court as we just did to challenge some of the vote laws.

The longtime Republican strategist tells Windsor that the election can be stolen again. He argues that Trumps legal problems are a way to suck up his money, suck up his time, and create the reason why their theft is plausible, believable.

He also shared his worries that overconfidence among Trump supporters could decrease voter turnout, adding that Trump allies are prepared to use lawyers, judges, technology, to take aim at the election results.

Stone told the magazine on Tuesday that All of the election integrity provisions that I suggested are perfectly legal and should be part of any ballot Security effort.

The consultant played a key role in the efforts to overturn the 2020 election and his attempts to affect election outcomes go all the way back to the 2000 election when he was one of the leaders of the so-called Brooks Brothers Riot which helped stop the Florida recount with the aim of making sure President George W Bush would eke out a win.

Stone blasted the recording and threatened legal action against Windsor in social media posts on Tuesday, writing on Facebook that Recording people without their knowledge and consent in Florida is a crime even when what the person says is innocuous.

He also repeatedly referred to the recording and the stories surrounding it as a nothingburger.

I will sue Lauren and appeal as many times as may be necessary, he wrote on X.
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.
Sedgwick to have city-run EMS service for the first time in 7 years

SEDGWICK, Kan. (KSNW) 

The city of Sedgwick will have a city-run EMS service for the first time since 2017.

City leaders made the decision to give up their certificate to run EMS services because they were not getting enough volunteers. This meant the closest ambulance was coming 15 minutes down the road from Halstead.

The citys new EMS director believes having in-service in the city limits once again will get them under the five-minute response requirement by the state of Kansas.

Sedgwicks officials made the decision to start stockpiling funds yearly from 2017. Now, they have roughly $500,000 to launch the new department. Having Halstead run the operation for the past several years cost roughly $200,000 yearly.

The new departments first year in business will cost $400,000, including the ability to pay five full-time employees and 20-30 part-time employees.

Were in a perfect financial place as a city paid this year, we had two bond notes paid off, and we had an increased evaluation, and so we were able to actually start this service without impacting the mill levy, said City Administrator Kyle Nordick.

Nordick said their community is deserving of the move.

Sedgwick is a community with great pride, were very proud in our community, we love our first responders, and to be able to bring this service back to the city is just another aspect of that, he said.

Nordick said that given the money theyve saved, the opening of the department will not impact residents taxes in the first year but could in the coming years. Those details are not yet figured out. City leaders say they will have a funded department up and running by Jan. 1, 2025.

Breathing new life onto main streets with Kansas grants

The new director of EMS services in Sedgwick calls the reopening of this department just the first step in the right direction as they push for a new fire station in the future.

I have a very, very soft spot in my heart for rural communities because they do have a lot of different barriers, said Sedgwick EMS Director Jaime Anderson.

Anderson said they will now be able to offer advanced life support services (ALS). The department received two ambulances built in 2008 and 2016. She said buying brand new is impractical.

Buying a new ambulance can take up to three years and over $380,000 for a brand new unit. Being able to purchase used ones that are still fantastic and get the job done is great, she said.

Anderson said chopping the response time from 15 minutes down to five is huge.

Being able to afford and stand up a paid service, where were providing 24/7 service to the community, is huge, she said.

Anderson said they hope to build a training center in the future, hosting other departments to help pay for future operational costs.

The city hopes that they will soon be eligible to apply for a grant from the state that would build a new fire and EMS station, replacing the one that is over 50 years old, giving them more room and a healthier place to operate.

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 KSN-TV.
SUVA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- A four-day Pacific Women Leaders Program, which focuses on gender equality, was held in Suva, Fiji, bringing together women leaders and representatives of various agencies from across the Pacific region, Fiji Broadcasting Corporation reported on Wednesday.

This meeting, attended by representatives from Fiji, Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu, discussed improving the awareness of the Pacific region's standing in relation to global gender gaps in accordance with relevant gender equality indicators.

While addressing the opening ceremony, Fiji's Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya highlighted the significant strides made in the country over the past 30 years in areas such as education, maternal mortality, access to health services, technology, and infrastructure.

However, the recent Fiji Country Gender Assessment revealed ongoing challenges hindering the empowerment of Fijian women and girls.

The minister called for collective participation in challenging existing norms to create a supportive environment for all individuals. 
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  A Columbus nonprofit has named five landmarks at risk in the city, including a hospital tower thats part of Ohio States Wexner Medical Center.

Since at least 2015, the Columbus Landmarks Foundation has released a yearly list of the most endangered local sites as part of an effort to preserve city landmarks and neighborhoods.

Columbus wants to install security camera network to fight crime, but will it work?

The endangered lists can sometimes foreshadow the fate of the properties they name. A separate organization, Preservation Ohio, also releases its own annual statewide list. Shortly after the group added the Farm Crest Bakeries Building, it was demolished in May.

The five historic locations picked by Columbus Landmarks for 2024 are below:

Spaghetti Warehouse

Originally an ice storage warehouse in the 1880s, the Franklinton site at 397 W. Broad St. is most known for functioning as the original Spaghetti Warehouse building. In 2022, the building suffered a partial roof collapse and has remained vacant since. The Spaghetti Warehouse ultimately reopened Downtown at 150 S. High St.

The original Spaghetti Warehouse building has remained vacant since its partial roof collapse in 2022. (Courtesy Photo/Franklin County Auditors Office)

Columbus Landmarks said the building was built as a solid masonry structure to accommodate heavy loads. It also has decorative features like recessed window openings and a brick corbelled cornice.

Mixed-use project proposed for 43-acre site near Ohio Universitys Dublin campus

The building is in danger of demolition due to strong development pressures, according to the Columbus Landmarks Foundation. In January 2024, the Robert Weiler Company submitted site plans for a 534-unit building and a 577-space parking garage to the city, which would require knocking the old building down.

Ohio State Hospital East Tower

Built in 1971, the 16-story Ohio State Hospital East tower at 181 Taylor Ave. was designed by notable African American architect Leon Ransom Jr. and featured in a book from Routledge Press titled African American Architects. The hospital building is an iconic landmark on the Near East Side, according to the Columbus Landmarks Foundation.

Ohio State has recently had plans to demolish the tower on Taylor Avenue. (Courtesy Photo/Franklin County Auditors Office)

Columbus Landmarks said the building is a Mid-Century Modern tower that exhibits recognizable elements of Modern Design. Those include vertical bays of plate glass windows, dark porcelain steel panels and a strong base clad in rusticated stone.

Easton, Polaris bucking national mall trend

Ohio State has recently had plans to demolish the tower, according to Columbus Landmarks. Its fate currently remains unclear.

Mifflin No. 5 School House

The Mifflin District No. 5 Schoolhouse at 3680 Westerville Road is an example of early schoolhouses quickly disappearing from local communities, according to Columbus Landmarks Foundation. The nonprofit said the schoolhouses construction dates to 1920.

The site of the century-old schoolhouse has been approved for redevelopment. (Courtesy Photo/Franklin County Auditors Office)

With a small brick structure, the building features a distinctive tower with exposed rafter tails at the roof overhang.

The Development Commission approved the site of the century-old schoolhouse for the construction of multifamily housing and parking lots. This means the buildings fate is uncertain.

The Sugar Shack

Once known as the Chapman Building and housing a grocery store in the 20s, this 1551 N. 4th St. site eventually became the Sugar Shack four decades later in the 60s. It was a popular local destination and live music venue, according to Columbus Landmarks Foundation. Functioning as a mixed-use building, it also featured apartments above the first floor.

The vacant Sugar Shack building could face demolition. (Courtesy Photo/Franklin County Auditors Office)

The building has been vacant for a long time and may face demolition due to growing development pressures in Weinland Park, Columbus Landmarks said.

Columbus hits abandoned Fort Rapids owner with steep fines for upkeep failure

Holy Rosary & St. John Catholic Church

Designed by Columbus architecture firm David Reibel & Sons, the Holy Rosary & St. John Catholic Church at 640-660 S. Ohio Ave. was built in 1898. The Catholic diocese recently closed the parish, which the Columbus Landmarks Foundation said provided services to a diverse congregation over many generations.

The parish was recently closed by the Catholic diocese. (Courtesy Photo/Franklin County Auditors Office)

The church is designed in a High Gothic style with distinctive high towers, rich masonry detailing, and large stained-glass windows donated by the parishioners that also bear their names. The property features a rectory built in 1899, a parish school built in 1905, and a convent built in 1950.

Columbus Landmarks said the fate of the structures remains uncertain 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 NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Michelle Maese, president of SEIU Local 1107, speaks at a rally in front of Clark County. (Photo: Michael Lyle/Nevada Current)

Policy, politics and progressive commentary

SEIU Local 1107 members rallied outside of the Clark County Commission on Tuesday to demand the management address vacancy rates by filling open positions, offer better and more competitive pay, and address racial disparities in hiring and discipline.

The union, which represents around 7,000 county employees including public service employees in departments including public works, aviation, juvenile justice services, family services and social services, began contract negotiations with the county in February.

Workers speaking Tuesday voiced frustration with the process, which is ongoing.

We have tried to work with county management and we have been all kinds of polite, said Michelle Maese, president of SEIU Local 1107. We have been at the bargaining table numerous times and reasoned with them. Our patience is running out.

The union was further frustrated after Clark County announced it would approve an $80 million settlement with Gypsum Resources over a legal dispute involving a planned housing development near Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.

Jennifer Cooper, a spokeswoman with Clark County, said in a statement last week that without the settlement the county was at risk of a larger payout.

While an $80 million payment is significant for the County, by reprioritizing and reallocating funds for planned capital projects and other economic development projects not yet underway, the settlement will not have a detrimental impact on services nor will it require a reduction in staff, Cooper said. The County will continue to identify sources of funding that will not impact the important services the County provides to the community.

SEIU members pushed back against the settlement on Tuesday and argued it will prevent the county from investing in workers and meeting union demands for better pay.

Maese said high vacancy rates among public service workers is a crisis of the countys making.

When Clark County decides they do not want to pay workers, that is a crisis, Maese said. When Clark County makes a conscious decision to have some of our classification at a lower wage than In-N-Out or Starbucks and to not pay the people who have worked here for decades, Clark County you have a problem. That is a crisis and we will no longer stand for that.

Maese said 17 years ago when she worked for Child Protective Services, the average length of stay for an employee was around 11 years.

Today, three and a half years, she said. Thats unacceptable.

The union said there is a 20% vacancy rate countywide. The high number of open positions is creating problems for its current staff, members warned Tuesday.

Clark County Family Services caseworker Yaritza Trevino said investigating allegations of child abuse and neglect is hard enough, and the difficulty of the job is compounded when there isnt enough staff to address the high caseloads.

It means county employees are overworked, stressed out and overwhelmed, Trevino said. It means that children in danger do not get the help and attention that they desperately need.

Caseworkers in the family services department are supposed to see children assigned to them every 30 days.

Our staffing is low and usually this is not possible, she said. It is outrageous and unacceptable that we are unable to keep the standards of keeping the children of Clark county safe.

Workers said they are asked to do more while not earning enough to meet increased cost of living.

Alexis Esparza, who has worked as a clerk in the Clark County District Attorneys office for six years, said her income isnt enough to support her two children as a single parent.

But the low wages not only prevents the county from keeping workers, she said. People arent willing to take jobs and fill vacant positions.

With workers in her department stretched thin, Esparza said the consequences could hinder public safety.

If we miss one thing, people could be let out of jail when they pick up new cases when they should be left in, Esparza said. Or if we include the wrong information we could actually be holding people in jail who shouldnt be there. None of this benefits our community.

Maese said Tuesdays rally is a first in a series of actions against the county.

We are prepared to escalate until they meet demands, she said. We are willing to go the extra mile to make sure our voices are heard.

The post SEIU rallies outside Clark County, promises to escalate action amid ongoing contract negotiations appeared first on Nevada Current.
A small group of Senate Democrats is calling on the Biden administration to hold back a military sale to Israel so it could be leveraged to influence the conduct of the war in the Gaza Strip and Israels policies toward Palestinians.

The sale includes about 50 F-15 fighter jets, air-to-air missiles and Joint Direct Attack Munition kits that transform unguided explosives to precision bombs. A decision this week by the top Democrats on Congresss foreign affairs committees has allowed the Biden administration to move forward with the sale.

I continue to believe that the Biden administration should pause the transfer of offensive weapons until the Netanyahu government meets the Biden administrations objectives in a number of areas, Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) told The Hill.

Van Hollen is at the forefront of more than a dozen Senate Democrats, moderates and progressives who have sought to pressure President Biden to take a harder line with Israel over its war conduct in Gaza and policies in the West Bank, and to hold back U.S. offensive weapons deliveries as leverage to realize change.

Members of this group have also not fully committed to attend a speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expected to take place in Congress July 24, underscoring fraught divisions within the Democratic Party on U.S. relations with Israel.

I think it was a mistake to invite him. I will make a decision later on, Van Hollen said.

In February, a group of 19 senators, with Van Hollen at the helm, succeeded in getting Biden to issue National Security Memorandum 20, an executive order that served to scrutinize Israels war conduct in Gaza and raised the possibility of banning weapons deliveries if it was determined that Israel violated international humanitarian law.

The administration said in May that Israel likely used U.S. weapons in violations of international law in its military operations in Gaza, but it held back from imposing a weapons embargo.

I dont think the administration made the right decision in their interpretation of the National Security Memorandum, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee on the Middle East, told The Hill on Tuesday.

I dont think there is evidence to suggest that Israel has been in compliance with that memorandum. My belief is that the administration should be using all the leverage it has, including weapon sales, in order to bring this conflict to a close.

Murphy also didnt commit to attending Netanyahus speech in July.

The Biden administration is expected to deliver a formal notification to Congress about the military sale for Israel. If the sale is approved and finalized by Israels Ministry of Defense, deliveries of  at least the F-15s  would likely begin in mid- to late 2029, according to sources familiar with the sale.

Approximately three to four aircraft would be delivered each year over the next 10 to 12 years.

But Democratic senators critical of Israels war conduct said the Biden administration still has time to use this military sales package as leverage to influence the immediate situation on the ground.

Ultimately this is the Biden administrations decision.  I would just urge them to pause that request until the Netanyahu government meets the objectives that President Biden himself has outlined, Van Hollen said.

This includes Israel facilitating increased humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, holding back from carrying out a large-scale military offensive on the southern Gazan city of Rafah, cracking down on illegal Israeli settlement outposts in the West Bank, and releasing collected Palestinian tax revenue to the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah.

So it seems to me, again, with respect to offensive weapons  not Iron Dome, not air defense  that the administration should get very clear assurances that these issues that the president has outlined will be addressed, Van Hollen continued.

Eric Harris, a spokesperson for Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), said that any issues or concerns the chair had over the military sale to Israel were addressed through our ongoing consultations with the administration, and thats why he felt it appropriate to allow this case to move forward.

As chair of the committee, Cardin has the power to block U.S. military sales. The Washington Post on Monday reported that Cardin, and ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) had both released their holds on the sale.

Cardin has called on Israel to do more to increase humanitarian aid deliveries to the Gaza Strip, but he has put his advocacy behind the Biden administrations push for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas.

The cease-fire proposal, which is still in negotiations, would require Hamas to release approximately 120 Israeli hostages kidnapped during its terrorist attack on Oct. 7. The cease-fire would allow for a scale-up of humanitarian deliveries and distribution for nearly the entire population of 2 million Palestinians who are suffering amid the more than eight-month war.

I applaud the efforts by President Biden and Secretary [of State Antony] Blinken for their efforts to help negotiate a cease-fire and hostage release, which would allow for greater access for humanitarian assistance and a pathway for peace between the Palestinians and Israelis, Cardin said during a roundtable with reporters last week.

And let me just put this in perspective. As the president has said, and as Secretary Blinken has said, its Hamas that is preventing this from going forward.

Supporters of the military sale to Israel say it is important in context that it addresses larger Israeli and American security interests in the region, and they say it also serves as an important signal of pressure on Hamas to agree to a cease-fire by demonstrating U.S. and Israeli solidarity.

Closing the daylight between the U.S. and Israel, continuing to show full-throated support for Israels security, that puts more pressure on [Hamas military chief in Gaza] Yahya Sinwar, which is where the pressure is needed, said Jonathan Lord, a former professional staff member for the House Armed Services Committee and currently a senior fellow and director of the Middle East Security Program at the Center for a New American Security.

But not all Democrats in the Senate want to absolve Netanyahu from responsibility for the toll of destruction in the Gaza Strip.

Gaza health authorities, under the control of Hamas, claim about 37,000 casualties from Israels war against Hamas  but it does not differentiate between civilians and combatants. Israel claims that it has eliminated 15,000 to 17,000 Hamas fighters.

Benjamin Netanyahu has created a humanitarian disaster. The United States needs to be using its leverage, including restrictions on arm sales, as a way to advance a push toward peace in the Middle East, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) told The Hill.

We need a cease-fire, massive humanitarian relief, the return of the hostages, and weve gotta have a breakthrough on getting the parties to the negotiating table. Giving more arms to Israel is not pushing in the right direction, Warren continued, confirming she would not attend Netanyahus speech.

Likewise, Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), who supported the creation of National Security Memorandum 20, called for Biden to hold back the military sale.

Schatz also didnt commit to attending Netanyahus speech when approached by The Hill on Tuesday.

I dont think we should approve the sale; I dont think keeping the supply line hot is a good enough reason to do that, Schatz told The Hill.

These things are designed as a matter of statutory law to be a lever for foreign policy, and we should use our leverage here to get the outcome we want.

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Senate may vote to codify Roe in July

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  Monday marks the two-year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court decision that struck down the federal right to an abortion.

Democrats are teeing up another vote that aims to restore Roe v. Wade, while Republicans are promoting their own policies in this presidential election year.

Our crusade on reproductive rights will continue, said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). June has been a month of MAGA Republicans showing their true colors.

Schumer said the next vote, likely in July, would reestablish a national right to an abortion before the third trimester of pregnancy by codifying Roe.

Abortion is currently banned at all stages of pregnancy in 14 states and after about six weeks of pregnancy in three others.

Every woman in every state is at risk, said Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.).

Stabenow argued another Trump administration would guarantee a nationwide abortion ban.

Nobodys OK in this country, she said.

Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) stressed one in three women of reproductive age now live in states with abortion restrictions.

I bet the house that anti-choice Senate Republicans will vote to ban abortion nationwide if theyre given the chance, Rosen said. None of us here will be fooled by their cover-ups of their anti-choice records.

Republicans tried to pass a series of their own reproductive rights bills this week, but Democrats blocked them.

The Republican Party is the party of families, said Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.).

Britts legislation would provide various prenatal and postpartum support for women.

You can absolutely be pro-life, pro-woman and pro-family all at the same time, she said.

Another measure, sponsored by Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), would expand resources to address the root causes of infertility, which she called a complementary measure to IVF protections.

What we are trying to do here is promote long-term healing for couples struggling with infertility, Hyde-Smith said. We want to empower childbearing generations so that families can address fertility concerns in a cost-effective manner.

Last week, Republicans largely opposed Democrats bill that would protect access to IVF.

The Democrat-controlled Senate also tried to pass legislation earlier this month to protect access to birth control in another largely symbolic move that Republicans ultimately blocked.

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The Capitol in Salt Lake City is pictured on Monday, May 6, 2024. (Photo by Spenser Heaps for Utah News Dispatch)

A group of Utah lawmakers and Jewish leaders viewed 45 minutes of unedited video of the Hamas terror groups Oct. 7 attack on Israel in a closed screening at the state Capitol on Tuesday meant to reinforce for them the brutality and reality of what the victims experienced that day.

The screening was organized by Senate President Stuart Adams, who said the footage is a reminder that the ensuing conflict between Israel and Gaza is a global issue. Speaking briefly after viewing the graphic footage, a somber Adams compared Utah leaders watching the video to other nations and allies supporting the U.S. after the 9/11 terror attacks.

We had people that understood our pain, and we see the pain that the Israeli people are going through. Theres nothing that can explain it. We need to stand with the free world to try to protect whats going on. And yeah, its important that we understand and remember, I will never forget. Hopefully the world never forgets, Adams said.

The footage of the attack that killed about 1,200 people, provided by the Israeli government, has also been shown to lawmakers in other states and seen by members of Congress, journalists and diplomats, Adams said. It includes footage taken from body-worn cameras worn by Hamas attackers that was streamed on social media.

Some media were also invited to attend the screening Tuesday, including Utah News Dispatch. The Dispatch declined to sign the non-disclosure agreement required to view the footage and therefore did not sit in on the screening, but spoke to some who viewed it.

While he has talked and read about the attack, Adams said seeing the footage made it real.

Asked about the level of Israels response in Gaza, Adams shared his sympathy but emphasized the Israeli hostages that remain there.

You have to feel for anyone whos been devastated like that, but you also have to stand up and try to defend what you believe is right. And we need the hostages. Why arent they released? Adams said.

Of about 250 hostages taken into Gaza on Oct. 7, the Associated Press reports, about 120 remain there, with 43 pronounced dead. Another 105 were exchanged during a weeklong cease-fire in November for 240 Palestinian prisoners. Four were rescued earlier this month in a blistering operation by Israel.

With heavy civilian casualties in Gaza, Israels response to the attack has been called one of the most destructive military efforts this century, according to AP. The Hamas-linked Gaza Health Ministry has put the death toll above 34,000.

The state of Utah has not been asked by Israel for any specific resources or support, Adams said, though he expressed his willingness to stand with the nation. In a prepared statement prior to the screening, Adams pointed to the states ties with Israel.

Utah and Israel have a strong diplomatic and economic connection, with trade between the two exceeding $170 million in 2022, the same year that Utah Gov. Spencer Cox led a trade mission to Israel, the governors office noted last year.

A major with the Israeli Air Force, who asked not to be identified for safety reasons, spoke to the group before they viewed the footage. He said his message to them was that seeing the film would break through the noise of the media and especially social media as they saw for themselves what happened on Oct. 7, stressing that it cant be allowed to happen again.

And if we need to fight Hamas until its done, thats what must be done. Because as long as Hamas exists, or the same ideology exists, this will just happen again. It will happen to Israel. It will happen to others, the major said.

Asked why the footage was screened in Utah specifically, the major said that the ultimate goal is to spread the message everywhere, not just to one state. He compared it to American soldiers in WWII who witnessed atrocities committed in the Holocaust and shared what they saw with the world.

If not for the need to show respect for the families of the people killed and wounded in the footage, he said he would want to show it to everyone.

So we showed it only to a select group of people that will tell others what they saw, he said.

Also in the audience was Rabbi Avremi Zippel, a well-known Jewish leader in the state.

From what I understand, on a diplomatic level, Israel is trying to share this information with any state that will take it, and I know there had been some conversations when the new consul general took office about bringing it to Utah, and Im glad to see that that has happened, Zippel said.

Zippel said he was unprepared for the violence in the footage, especially the exultation he saw from the attackers.

I think its important that lawmakers understand this is not two nations that are at war with one another, over land, over ideology, over any sort of national existence. This is an existential battle. This is a war between people who want to live and a war between people who believe that their calling from on high is to wipe out the first group of people, Zippel said. And Ive got to be honest with you, I didnt have that level of perspective before watching this.

Zippel said he received a text from one lawmaker earlier in the day who said they wouldnt be attending because the violent footage would be too difficult to watch. As the grandson of a Holocaust survivor, Zippel said he believes its important to remember difficult things, and that just eight months after the Oct. 7 attack, what happened is being forgotten.

Zippel said he does not believe that by emphasizing the brutality of Hamas actions, everyday Muslims could face hostility.

Having watched this film, I certainly dont feel any level of acrimony or resentment towards a single follower or adherent of the Islamic faith, Zippel said.

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The federal government could soon apologize for actions that discriminated against LGBTQ government workers as far back as 1949 under a resolution filed Tuesday by Senate Democrats.

Sens. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) are leading the resolution, which has 18 Democratic co-sponsors. The duo sponsored an identical resolution in 2021.

In a statement Tuesday, Kaine said the resolution reaffirms a commitment to righting our past wrongs and advancing LGBTQ equality nationwide.

LGBT civil servants, foreign service officers and service members have made countless sacrifices and contributions to our country and national security. Despite this, our government has subjected them to decades of harassment, invasive investigations and wrongful termination because of who they are or who they love, he said.

The resolution points to legislation, congressional hearings, reports and public statements made by members of the federal government against LGBTQ military service members, foreign service members and civilian employees, most notably during the Lavender Scare of the late 1950s and 60s, when then-Sen. Joseph McCarthy (R-Wis.) linked homosexuality to communism. In 2017, former Secretary of State John Kerry issued a formal apology to LGBTQ State Department employees for past discrimination based on sexual orientation, including during the Lavendar Scare.

Kaines resolution explicitly mentions the more than 100,000 LGBTQ service members who historians estimate were forced out of the U.S. military because of their sexual orientation or gender identity between WWII and 2011. It also references the countless others who were forced to hide their identities and live in fear while serving.

A 1994 provision passed in that years National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)  a policy now known as Dont Ask, Dont Tell  prevented LGBTQ people from serving openly in the military, before it was repealed in 2011. A group of LGBTQ veterans who were given dishonorable discharges under the policy because of their sexual orientation sued the Department of Defense last summer, arguing that their civil rights had been violated when the department failed to update them to honorable discharges after the policy was rolled back.

Although the military has recognized the discriminatory nature of Dont Ask, Dont Tell and other policies, LGBTQ veterans with dishonorable discharges must still individually prove that discrimination occurred in order to have their records corrected.

Amendments to this years NDAA, passed last week by the GOP-controlled House, have been criticized for similarly targeting LGBTQ service members, particularly transgender service members.

Anyone who serves our country, whether they are in uniform or a civil servant, deserves to be treated with respect, fairness, and dignity, regardless of who they are or who they love, Baldwin, who in 2012 became the first openly LGBTQ person elected to the Senate, said of the resolution on Tuesday. I am proud to lead this effort to show our commitment to creating a more accepting, equal country that lives up to our nations ideals.

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Senior accommodation: It's time to give Trump, Biden a lift they need on Air Force One

In the spirit of bipartisan harmony and patriotism, I have a modest proposal as we look toward a new national election.

Whether voters re-elect Joe Biden or Donald Trump in November, the United States will have an octogenarian president. Biden is 81 and Trump turned 78 this month.

As they grow older, we can expect that the physical abilities of both men will never be better than they are now and will likely atrophy. This, understandably, has given some people pause.

And watching Trump sleep through his recent criminal trial, and Biden baby-stepping through the G-7 summit is not reassuring

President Joe Biden disembarks from Air Force One at Fort Lauderdale International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022. Biden arrived in South Florida for the day to participate in a series of campaign events for Florida Democrats ahead of Election Day. (Tom Brenner/The New York Times)

Weve never had two presidential candidates this old seeking four more years in office. Both parties have accused the other of supporting a nominee with cognitive difficulties and mental lapses associated with old age.

Putting the mental issues aside, there is something we all can agree on that deals with the physical challenges of an older president.

Whether Trump or Biden gets elected, for the good of the country, weve got to stop putting these old men on display while they walk up and down steep staircases to and from airplanes.

At least until 2028, Air Force One has turned into an inaccessible accommodation that teeters on violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.

U.S. President Joe Biden disembarks Air Force One at Paris-Orly Airport, near Paris, France, June 7, 2024.

Or to put it another way: We need a presidency without stairs.

Stairs are the enemy of older people. Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths for senior citizens, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Trumps first wife, Ivana, 73, died from blunt trauma two years ago from falling down a staircase in her home. And that staircase was nowhere as high or treacherous as the one on Air Force One.

Biden has a bad habit of trying to jog up the steps of the presidential jet  perhaps to overcompensate  and that has resulted in some breath-holding moments and potential peril.

On one trip up the staircase three years ago, he stumbled three times, ending up on his knees before making it up to the cabin.

It turns out, gravity might be a bigger menace for Biden than Fox News.

Meanwhile, Trump observers have noted that something is going on with his right leg, which gives him an unusual gait. He throws that leg out in front of him sometimes, a sign of some undisclosed physical malady.

Heres what political commentator Ron Filipkowski wrote on X after watching Trump descend the staircase on his private jet last weekend during a campaign trip last weekend in Michigan:

"Look how intensely focused he is on not screwing this up because this is so important to him. Staring down the whole time while gripping that railing. Then you can see how proud he is of his accomplishment at the bottom."

Its undignified to put our octogenarian presidents through the death-defying ritual of walking up and down the steps that give them access to their signature form of travel.

When a younger president gets to the top of the stairway to Air Force One and turns and waves, theres nothing particularly dramatic there.

But Im imagining that watching Trump or Biden wave back at the top of the staircase in the year 2028 is going to be like watching a brave daredevil announcing his arrival at the top of Mount Everest.

And what if he cant make it anymore?

If you love this country, you ought to hate watching a duly elected American president put through the humiliating exercise of attempting to get on and off his airplane.

And thats why Im proposing that the portable staircases that roll up to Air Force One be equipped with a motorized stair lift  at least until we go back to electing presidents who are in their 50s.

You know the chairs Im talking about. Youve seen them on late-night TV infomercials. The person sits in the chair with armrests, straps in, and rides uneventfully on a motorized trip up and down the stairs.

No tense moments. No need to find out where the vice president is, just in case.

More: Florida Man Trump evokes flaws, not Jaws, in unscripted fearful rant about sharks at rally

Sure, Biden and Trump will both say that they dont need the motorized chair. That theyre both fully capable of walking up and down the steps on their own power.

But at this point, they ought to be reminded that they should put their egos aside and think of national security. After all, we dont let them drive cars, either.

A good first step toward acceptance would be to show them some of the stats on older people and falls while introducing them to the CDC program to prevent falls among the elderly. Its entitled STEADI  Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths and Injuries.

More than one out of four people 65 and older falls each year, and over 3 million are treated in emergency departments annually for fall injuries, the CDC program says. You play an important role in caring for older adults and you can help reduce these devastating injuries.

The Secret Service could be deputized to be The Seated Service for the next four years.

More: If Donald Trump gets convicted, let's just lock him in the Mar-a-Lago tower.

Keeping our octogenarian presidents from falling down the stairs is the least we can do to reassure the rest of the world that we here in the U.S. have everything under control.

At least until nap time.

Frank Cerabino is a news columnist with The Palm Beach Post, part of the Gannett chain of newspapers.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Getting stairs out of next Biden/Trump administration
CLOVER, S.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A Clover man accused of robbing multiple fast food locations in Charlotte received a lofty sentence for his actions this week, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced.

Clover resident Daquan Hampton, 27, will serve 13 years in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy robbery and aiding and abetting charges in 2023.

Court records stated that in June of 2022, a Waffle House employee was held up by two gun-toting men in masks in the business parking lot. The three went inside the store where the suspects demanded cash from a locked vault. Unable to get into the vault, Hampton pistol-whipped the employee and the suspects fled the scene. Two days later similar reports came in involving staff at a Dominos Pizza and a Pap Johns store.

Later that month, Hampton was pulled over by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police and subsequently arrested for a gun he attempted to discard during the stop. Marijuana, $1,417 in cash, and two loaded magazines were also located.

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KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Wednesday that China-Malaysia ties are at the forefront among relations between regional countries, and have set a benchmark and an example.

He made the remarks in a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The Chinese premier is paying his first official visit to the Southeast Asian country.

In the past half century, no matter how the international situation has changed, China and Malaysia have always been committed to sincere friendship, win-win cooperation and mutual learning, he said, adding that the relationship has been steadily moving forward. 
The village of Malekhiv in Lviv Oblast. Screenshot: Google Maps

Two men aged 47 and 70 have been injured in a Russian drone strike in the village of Malekhiv, Lviv hromada [an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories].

Source: Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi; Maksym Kozytskyi, Head of Lviv Oblast Military Administration

    ,   Telegram 

Aftermath of a drone strike in Malekhiv.

Photo: Sadovyi on Telegram

Quote from Sadovyi: "A strike has been recorded in Malekhiv, Lviv hromada. A 70-year-old male guard was injured. He is in a moderate condition and has been hospitalised."

Details: Maksym Kozytskyi, Head of Lviv Oblast Military Administration, reported that a 47-year-old man had been injured during the first Shahed drones night attack in Malekhiv, Lviv Oblast. The man sustained cut wounds. Medical workers provided assistance at the scene. He didnt require hospitalisation.

At first, it was unclear whether Sadovyi and Kozytskyi were talking about the same person, or whether two people were injured.

Updated: Later, Kozytskyi reported that two people had been injured: a 47-year-old and a 70-year-old man.

"Information about another person in Malekhiv affected as a result of the night drone attack in Lviv Oblast has also been officially confirmed. A 70-year-old man has been hospitalised. He was concussed and sustained multiple shrapnel wounds and several gunshot fractures. He is in a moderate condition," Kozytskyi reported.

    ,   Telegram 

Aftermath of a drone strike in Malekhiv.

Photo: Sadovyi on Telegram

Sadovyi later reported that a multi-storey residential building in Malekhiv had been damaged, with 20 windows broken.

An office building where the guard was injured was also affected.

    ,   Telegram 

Aftermath of a drone strike in Malekhiv.

Photo: Sadovyi on Telegram

Windows in five buildings in a residential area were broken.

Background: It was reported that air defence systems were responding to Russian Shahed drones in Lviv Oblast on the night of 18-19 June.

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ELBA, Ala. (WDHN)After patiently waiting over two months since the last visit from federal highway transportation officials, homeowners in Elba are being forced to act fast to find a solution to the flooding.

We are not just sitting here with our hands folded and waiting on the federal to do so, Williams said. We are being proactive.

Feds investigating Shiloh flooding say ALDOT should do more

The Shiloh community has used one of its partners in their journey to justice, Southern Environmental Law Center, to hire an engineer to find out what they can do to alleviate water on their side of the highway, which they blame is coming from Highway 84.



We came up with some plans. They came out here and drafted things, and so we had to go back and alter the plans to meet the right away as well, He said.

Williams said they had to act faster because working at the federal level can be a lengthy process.

Williams said they went with the logic, showing the engineer plans of how the water flowed before the highway was elevated and expanded into a four-lane highway six years ago.

Since then, he says they have been dealing with forced stormwater as four pipes have been turned onto their community.

If we alleviate that problem and just get the raindrops, it wont be as devastating, so we showed them how they can just turn those pipes and get it to go downstream and how we didnt have this problem in 2011, so it worked out good he heard us out, He said.

Williams said that the situation worsens as they wait for help, and his home is slowly washing away.

He said his house is sinking, and his roof is starting to separate, allowing water to get into his home, causing water damage and other issues.

We just hired Alabama Restoration to erect mold out of the house, out of the bathroom, and roof, so that was a process, so they took all that mold out, He said. You cant get anybody to come work on a sinking house.

However, Williams said his optimism remained high two months after the federal transportation leaders visited the Shiloh community to devise a solution.

He said Secretary Pete Buttigieg promised him they would have plans of their own, and Williams said he had heard conversations were ongoing.

I believe something great is going to happen, He said. We dont know the time frame, but we believe they are going to say what they are going to do.

Williams said they will have a community meeting this evening to go over the plans being presented to the county and state so that residents are on the same page.

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A Greek-owned coal carrier appears to have capsized in the Red Sea days after it was struck by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, according to a report published by the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).

The MV Tutor is thought to be the second ship sunk by Houthis since March, when the British-registered vessel Rubymar was downed after being struck by ballistic missiles fired from Houthi territory in Yemen.

The rebels have launched dozens of missile and drone attacks directed at ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since Israel launched its invasion of Gaza following the Hamas-led October 7 attacks. Since then, tensions have spiked across the Middle East, with key regional actors fiercely condemning the humanitarian crisis caused by more than eight months of Israeli bombardment of Gaza.

Israel launched its military offensive in October after militants led by Hamas, which governs Gaza, killed at least 1,200 people and abducted more than 250 others.

Israeli attacks in Gaza have since killed at least 37,396 Palestinians and injured another 85,523 people, according to the Ministry of Health there.

Christian Domarique (center), a crew member of the MV Tutor, arrives in Metro Manila, on June 17. Dozens of ships have been attacked in the Red Sea, as regional tensions flare over Israel's war in Gaza. - Jam Sta Rosa/AFP/Getty Images

The Tutor was first hit on June 12 by a smaller boat before being struck a second time by an unknown airborne projectile, according to the UKMTO. One crew member was reported missing after the attack, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said last week.

After the ships entire crew were evacuated from the vessel, it began to drift before reportedly sinking on Tuesday, according to the UKMTO.

A Houthi spokesperson previously claimed that the ship had been attacked by a sea drone, ballistic missiles and other drones for violating their so-called ban to the occupied Palestinian ports.

Houthi-run news outlet Al Masirah acknowledged foreign media reports regarding the sinking on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, CENTCOM said on X that, The Houthis claim to be acting on behalf of Palestinians in Gaza and yet they are targeting and threatening the lives of third country nationals who have nothing to do with the conflict in Gaza. The ongoing threat to international commerce caused by the Houthis in fact makes it harder to deliver badly needed assistance to the people of Yemen as well as Gaza.

Earlier this month, CENTCOM launched attacks on Houthi radars that helped facilitate the groups ongoing assaults on ships in the Red Sea, according to US Central Command.

CNNs Ibrahim Dahman contributed reporting.

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  A bulk carrier sank days after an attack by Yemens Houthi rebels believed to have killed one mariner on board, authorities said early Wednesday, the second such ship to be sunk in the rebel campaign.

The sinking of the Tutor in the Red Sea marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Iranian-backed Houthis in their campaign targeting shipping through the vital maritime corridor over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

The attack comes despite a monthslong U.S.-led campaign in the region that has seen the Navy face its most intense maritime fighting since World War II, with near-daily attacks targeting commercial vessels and warship.

The Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated Tutor sank in the Red Sea, the British militarys United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said in a warning to sailors in the region.



Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the last reported location, the UKMTO said. The vessel is believed to have sunk.

The Houthis did not immediately acknowledge the sinking. The U.S. military as well did not immediately acknowledge the sinking and did not respond to requests for comment.

The Tutor came under attack about a week ago by a bomb-carrying Houthi drone boat in the Red Sea. John Kirby, a White House national security spokesperson, said Monday that the attack killed a crew member who hailed from the Philippines. The Philippines has yet to acknowledge the death, but the man who had been aboard the Tutor has been missing for over a week in the Red Sea, which faces intense summertime heat.

The use of a boat loaded with explosives raised the specter of 2000s USS Cole attack, a suicide assault by al-Qaida on the warship when it was at port in Aden, killing 17 on board. The Cole is now part of a U.S. Navy operation led by the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the Red Sea to try and halt the Houthi attacks, though the rebels continue their assaults.

The Houthis have launched more than 50 attacks on shipping, killing four sailors. Theyve seized one vessel and sunk two since November, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. A U.S.-led airstrike campaign has targeted the Houthis since January, with a series of strikes May 30 killing at least 16 people and wounding 42 others, the rebels say.

In March, the Belize-flagged Rubymar carrying a load of fertilizer sank in the Red Sea after taking on water for days following a rebel attack.

The Houthis have maintained their attacks target ships linked to Israel, the U.S. or the U.K. However, many of the ships theyve attacked have little or no connection to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

The war in Gaza has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians there, while hundreds of others have been killed in Israeli operations in the West Bank. It began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostage.

A recent report by the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency acknowledged container shipping through Red Sea has declined by 90% since December over the attacks. As much as 15% of the worlds maritime traffic flows through that corridor.
Ship attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels in fatal assault sinks in Red Sea in their second sinking

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  A bulk carrier sank days after an attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels, who are believed to have killed one mariner on board, authorities said early Wednesday. It was the second ship sunk in the rebels' campaign targeting Red Sea shipping.

The sinking of the Tutor marks what appears to be a new escalation by the Iranian-backed Houthis in their campaign of attacks on ships in the vital maritime corridor over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

The attack comes despite a monthslong U.S.-led campaign in the region that has seen the Navy face its most-intense maritime fighting since World War II, with near-daily attacks targeting commercial vessels and warship.

The Liberian-flagged, Greek-owned-and-operated Tutor sank in the Red Sea, the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said in a warning to sailors in the region.

Military authorities report maritime debris and oil sighted in the last reported location, the UKMTO said. The vessel is believed to have sunk.

The Houthis late Wednesday released footage showing their attack on the Tutor, acknowledging they used two different drone boats to hit the vessel from both its side and the stern.

The U.S. military did not respond to requests for comment over the sinking.

The Tutor came under attack about a week ago by a bomb-carrying Houthi drone boat in the Red Sea. John Kirby, a White House national security spokesman, said on Monday that the attack killed a crew member who hailed from the Philippines. The Philippines has yet to acknowledge the death, but the man who had been aboard the Tutor has been missing for over a week in the Red Sea, which faces intense summertime heat.

The use of a boat loaded with explosives raised the specter of the attack in 2000 on the USS Cole, a suicide assault by al-Qaida when the warship was at port in the Yemeni city of Aden, killing 17 on board. The Cole is now part of a U.S. Navy operation in the Red Sea led by the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to try and halt the Houthi attacks, though the rebels continue their assaults.

The Houthis have launched more than 60 attacks targeting specific vessels and fired off other missiles and drones in their campaign that has killed a total of four sailors. They've seized one vessel and sunk two since November. A U.S.-led airstrike campaign has targeted the Houthis since January, with a series of strikes May 30, killing at least 16 people and wounding 42 others, the rebels say.

In March, the Belize-flagged Rubymar carrying fertilizer cargo sank in the Red Sea after taking on water for days following a rebel attack.

The Houthis have maintained that their attacks target ships linked to Israel, the United States or Britain. However, many of the ships they've attacked have little or no connection to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war.

It is deplorable that innocent seafarers are being attacked while simply performing their jobs, vital jobs which keep the world warm, fed, and clothed, the shipping industry said in a joint statement Wednesday.

This is an unacceptable situation, and these attacks must stop now, it said.

The war in Gaza has killed more than 37,000 Palestinians there, while hundreds of others have been killed in Israeli operations in the West Bank. It began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostage.

A recent report by the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency said that container shipping through the Red Sea has declined by 90% since December because of the attacks. As much as 15% of the world's maritime traffic flows through that corridor.

Meanwhile, the Houthis said on Wednesday that U.S.-led airstrikes targeted Raymah, a province in Yemen under rebel control. The Houthi-controlled SABA news agency described a local radio station's building as being totally destroyed in the strikes. About a week earlier, the Houthis said similar strikes killed two people and wounded nine others, without saying if those hurt were fighters or civilians.

Later in the day, SABA also reported U.S.-led strikes targeting the port city of Hodeida.

The U.S. military's Central Command said in a statement early Thursday it destroyed one ground control station and one command and control node in a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen in the strikes. It also claimed destroying two Houthi drone boats in the Red Sea as well over the last 24 hours.
U.S. Naval forces rescue crew from Greek-owned ship struck by Houthis in Red Sea

By Jonathan Saul

LONDON (Reuters) - Urgent action must be taken in the Red Sea to stop attacks on merchant shipping by Yemen's Houthis, leading industry groups said on Wednesday, after the sinking of a second ship.

Iran-aligned Houthi militants first launched drone and missile strikes on the important trade route in November in what they say is solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. In more than 70 attacks, they have also seized one vessel and its crew and killed at least three seafarers.

"It is deplorable that innocent seafarers are being attacked while simply performing their jobs, vital jobs which keep the world warm, fed, and clothed," the world's top shipping associations said in a joint statement.

"These attacks must stop now. We call for states with influence in the region to safeguard our innocent seafarers and for the swift de-escalation of the situation in the Red Sea."

The Greek-owned Tutor coal carrier attacked by Yemen's Houthi militants in the Red Sea last week has sunk, salvagers confirmed on Wednesday.

The vessel was struck with missiles and an explosive-laden remote-controlled boat, according to sources.

International naval forces have been deployed to provide mainly defensive support for ships still sailing through the Red Sea, but the attacks have increased significantly.

Insurance industry sources said on Wednesday there was also mounting concern over the use of attack drone boats by the Houthis.

"They are harder to defend against and potentially more lethal as they strike the waterline," one industry source said.

"Missiles have - to date - mainly caused deck and superstructure damage (to ships)."

There have been 10 Houthi strikes so far in June compared with five in May, said Munro Anderson, head of operations at marine war risk and insurance specialist Vessel Protect, part of Pen Underwriting.

"The first successful use of an unmanned surface vessel represents a new challenge for commercial shipping within an already complex environment," he added.

Insurance industry sources said that additional war risk premiums, paid when vessels sail through the Red Sea, had hovered close to 0.7% of the value of a ship in recent days from around 1% earlier this year.

They added that with a second ship sinking and the losses likely to emerge from that, rates are likely to firm up, adding hundreds of thousands of dollars of extra costs to every voyage.

Ships must divert around southern Africa, which is the best way to protect seafarers, said Stephen Cotton, General Secretary with the International Transport Workers' Federation, the leading seafarer's union.

"We would also welcome proper escorts and the shielding of ships by naval forces, which would reduce the risks of ships being hit," he added.

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
Shipwrecks off Italian coast leave at least 11 dead and dozens missing

Shipwrecks off Italian coast leave at least 11 dead and dozens missing

Two devastating shipwrecks off Italy's southern coast have resulted in the deaths of at least 11 migrants and left 64 people missing, according to United Nations agencies.

In the first tragedy, a boat carrying migrants from Turkey caught fire and overturned approximately 200 kilometres off the coast of Calabria.

Survivors reported that the vessel had been at sea for eight days before the disaster struck.

The Italian coastguard initiated a search-and-rescue operation following a mayday call from a French vessel in the vicinity.

At least 12 survivors were rescued and taken to the port of Roccella Jonica for medical treatment, but one died shortly after arriving. The majority of the missing migrants are from Iran, Syria, and Iraq.

Another perilous journey ends in tragedy

In a separate incident near the island of Lampedusa, rescue workers discovered a wooden boat full of water. The crew of the German aid ship Nadir managed to evacuate 51 people, including two who were unconscious and had to be freed with an axe.

Bodies of 10 migrants were found trapped below deck. The survivors, primarily from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Egypt, and Syria, had each paid around $3,500 (around 3,250) for the journey.

The Italian Maritime Rescue Coordination Center quickly diverted nearby merchant vessels to assist in both rescue operations. Frontex, the European border and coast guard agency, also provided support.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) provided psychological assistance and first aid to the survivors.

The organisation emphasised the severe conditions that many migrants endure during these crossings.

Tough border to patrol, authorities say

These incidents come amid ongoing efforts by Italian authorities to manage the influx of migrants.

Measures include advising migrants to use umbrellas, stay hydrated, and avoid direct sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day. The increasing number of unregistered migrants often lacking access to basic facilities remains a challenge.

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 3,150 migrants died or went missing in the Mediterranean last year, making it the deadliest migration route in the world.

The EU has recently implemented stricter immigration controls, while Italy's government has introduced laws aimed at reducing the number of sea crossings.

These include restrictions on the operations of charity rescue ships, which are often accused of encouraging migration.
THE HAGUE, Netherlands  The government of the Netherlands calls hosting the International Criminal Court a huge responsibility rooted in its national constitution. Along with 92 other nations, the country endorsed a statement on Friday calling the court an essential component of the international peace and security architecture that should be free from intimidation or political interference and pressure.

But Dutch authorities have also reportedly known since 2015 about Israeli harassment of court officials and sources trying to inform the ICCs work. And Israeli espionage targeting the organization is allegedly ongoing.

What has the Netherlands done about it?

Thats what Kati Piri, a prominent member of the countrys House of Representatives, wants to know. On May 29, she sent a formal inquiry to the Dutch government about alleged Israeli meddling with the ICC since 2015, when the court began investigating apparent violations of international law in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict once Palestine joined the ICC as a member state.

According to May 28 reports from The Guardian, the Israeli-Palestinian magazine +972 and the Hebrew-language outlet Local Call, Israel is surveilling dozens of officials at the court, as well as other international officials and Palestinian rights activists, and has repeatedly threatened former ICC prosecutor Fatou Bensouda. Israeli officials allegedly subjected Bensouda to shock encounters  including a seeming attempt at bribery at her home in The Hague and an ambush by Mossad director Yossi Cohen in New York  and suggested they would harm her family, including by damaging her husbands career.

Taken together, the alleged gambits constitute what a former high-ranking Israeli intelligence official described to The Guardian as a war of Israeli espionage and pressure against the ICC, to undercut its attempts at accountability for potential war crimes by Israelis. Israels government and military have firmly denied meddling with the court, accusing journalists of allegations meant to hurt the state of Israel.

I cannot imagine the Dutch government having no information about these practices. Then, of course, the logical question is: What were the political consequences and were there any? If not, how can we as a host country pretend that we are protecting these international institutions? Piri told HuffPost last week. Like the other 123 state parties to the ICC, the Netherlands is bound by its founding Rome Statute, whose Article 70 criminalizes interfering with the courts administration of justice.

Even if they tried everything, they were not able to prevent this harassment from taking place, Piri said.

Kati Piri is one of three Dutch lawmakers challenging her country's government over whether it protected the International Criminal Court against alleged Israeli espionage. Akbar Shahid Ahmed/HuffPost

June 18 was the deadline Piri set for the foreign, justice and interior ministers to send her a response, as they are mandated to do for such requests from lawmakers. Two other Dutch parliamentarians have also sent ministers formalinquiries into the allegations. A Dutch foreign ministry spokesperson told HuffPost she could not predict when the government responses will be issued.

How sincere the Netherlands and other governments are in their commitments to protect the ICC is arguably more significant now than ever before. ICC prosecutor Karim Khan announced on May 20 he is seeking arrest warrants for Israeli officials and leaders of the Palestinian group Hamas for suspected war crimes on Oct. 7, 2023  when Hamas launched a brutal assault within Israel  and since then, as Israel has devastated the Palestinian enclave of Gaza in response to the Hamas-led attack.

Khans pursuit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant represents the closest the ICC has ever come to prosecuting officials closely tied to Western democracies like the U.S. and the Netherlands. The fear among Israeli officials of such prosecution for breaking international laws regulating military operations  which could make it hard for them to travel internationally without facing arrest by governments that are part of the ICC, and could ultimately involve trials and imprisonment  drove the Israeli push against the court, per the May 28 reports.

The situation as a whole raises questions of how world powers balance their commitments to universal standards with their own national preferences in global affairs. Are high-minded commitments to international law only applicable when it comes to easy opponents, like Russian President Vladimir Putin or war criminals from less influential nations, or are governments willing to hold their allies accountable as well? Will there be accountability for alleged Israeli violations of both the laws of war in Gaza and the statutes of international courts?

Speaking with Piri offered insight into the thinking of officials grappling with those questions, particularly in the home of the ICC. The Netherlands is no behemoth in terms of territory, but its still one of Europes wealthiest countries with an outsize influence on the continents politics and the self-proclaimed international city of Peace and Justice.

States like the Netherlands are struggling to simultaneously align with both the U.S., their most important ally and Israels patron, and their professed values, which their foes like Putin cite to charge them with hypocrisy and undercut their foreign policy efforts, from supporting Ukraine to championing rights internationally. The ICC last year indicted Putin for alleged crimes against humanity during Russias vicious full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Piri argued that given the global political climate, making allowances for Israel is dangerous.

We are a small country, which means automatically that international law and especially abiding by international law is very important for protecting our trade, for protecting our values, she said. Many nations without the military capabilities or historic heft of the U.S.  in other words, the vast majority of countries  similarly count on the shaky patchwork of global norms for their sovereignty and stability.

Referring to Israels military campaign in Gaza, Piri continued: This policy that Netanyahu is doing is not making Israel any safer... and meanwhile the West, including the Americans, we are losing our credibility all over the world for using double standards  and yes, we are definitely using double standards.

In Piris view, Dutch officials should have shielded the ICC, and demonstrated a commitment to international law in all circumstances, by verifying whether Israeli espionage occurred and then responding firmly. She envisions closed-door reproaches to Israeli counterparts, expelling Israeli spies who were posing as diplomats, or even applying a new Dutch law against cybersurveillance that provides for prison sentences of up to eight years.

Whether from Israel or a country, like China, that Europe formally describes as a rival, you cannot make a difference in responding to espionage, Piri said. She noted that the Netherlands has expelled Russians who it said were trying to infiltrate another international body in The Hague, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.

Its an uncomfortable truth that its a friendly nation doing this, Piri continued. She called the pattern of Israeli behavior reported in the media shocking, really shocking, arguing that the alleged secret breach of norms is even more alarming than public condemnations of the ICC from figures like U.S. lawmakers, particularly Republicans.

The Netherlands, as the host state, enjoys significant financial benefits from hosting the ICC and also has a special duty to protect its independence and integrity, argued Danya Chaikel, an attorney and the representative to the ICC for the International Federation for Human Rights, a coalition of nongovernmental organizations.

The Netherlands is legally bound to take effective and adequate action required to ensure the security, safety, and protection of ICC officials, so the Court can function free from interference of any kind, Chaikel said in an email. The Dutch government acted decisively against a Russian cyberattack at the OPCW in 2018, and it took a firm stance against US sanctions on the ICC in 2020. In maintaining international law and justice, there should be no double standards. The same decisive action taken in past situations should be applied consistently, including in the current allegations against Israel.

Piri framed shielding the Court as part of an overall attempt to shore up the global order. She expressed concern about the continued U.S. military backing that President Joe Biden is providing Israels offensive, even as the International Court of Justice  another court based in The Hague that is distinct from the ICC  has ordered Israel to halt its advance in Gaza, citing the risk to civilians, and is weighing a case brought by South Africa that casts the overall campaign as genocidal. (Israel fiercely disputes that portrayal and asserts it is working to shield civilians amid the fighting.)

If the U.S. would stop delivering the weapons it is delivering, Israel would not be able to continue this war, said Piri, who supports an effort by Dutch activists to block her country from sending spare parts to Israel for F-35 fighter jets. A local court ruled in the activists favor in February, but the Dutch government is appealing that judgment.

Calling herself a big fan of the Biden administration on most matters, Piri added: In a world where our Western values are so much under threat... the U.S. in the future will need friends and allies and this is not helping it.

Im not expecting it to attack Israel or in any way Israelis, but to distance yourself from the most far-right government in Israel would be a helpful thing to do, she continued.

Piri believes neither the U.S. nor the European Union is upholding their stated values when it comes to the Gaza war.

In the EU, the problem is of course that the biggest and most important member state, which is of course Germany, is unwilling to really stand up for international law, Piri said, echoing concerns that Palestinians and their advocates have expressed about Germanys so-called reason of state for defending Israel because of its own responsibility for the Holocaust. I cannot put it in any other way, although the government there is of my sister party.

Piri is the foreign affairs spokesperson for the Dutch GreenLeft-Labor alliance, which is associated with Germanys Social Democratic Party.

The West, including the Americans, we are losing our credibility all over the world for using double standards  and yes, we are definitely using double standards.Kati Piri, Dutch member of parliament, on Western reluctance to question Israel

In her own nation, a hard-line right-wing party swept the most recent national elections in November, presaging recent EU-wide voting in which radical-right politicians  many of them both extremely supportive of Israel and highly critical of Muslims  triumphed in several countries. Far-right party chief Geert Wilders called Netanyahu to express his support upon news that Netanyahu may face an ICC warrant, and Piri worries the incoming Dutch government will disregard warrants for Israelis if the court does approve them.

I would like to see the Netherlands using its leverage for the EU to unite and to actually have any impact on whats happening in Gaza, she said. For instance, the union could express a tougher position on Israel than that of the U.S., perhaps by leveraging its status as Israels biggest trade partner to pressure it to respect international law on allowing humanitarian aid to reach civilians and minimizing collateral damage. But she does not believe a Wilders-dominated Dutch government would take any such steps.

For now, Piri is awaiting answers about developments closer to home: the alleged Israeli violations of international law on Dutch soil. She hopes the answers from her government will show that it respected its global promises by moving to defend the ICC, a response that could help boost faith in rhetoric about international values. Still, she sees no guarantees.

Im afraid that they will hide behind the fact that a lot of this is intelligence information and therefore cannot be shared publicly, she told HuffPost. I hope that Im wrong  that they really do everything behind closed doors to keep people safe and to pressure Israel to stop these practices.

Related...
Anderson Lee Aldrich received 55 consecutive life sentences and 190 years in prison after pleading guilty to hate crime charges for killing five people in 2022

Colorado Springs Police Department (Clockwise from left): Daniel Davis Aston, Raymond Green, Ashley Paugh, Derrick Rump and Kelly Loving

The person who opened fire at an LGBTQ bar in 2022 and killed five people has been sentenced to nearly 200 years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple hate crime and weapon charges.

Kelly Loving, Raymond Green, Ashley Paugh, Daniel Davis Aston and Derrick Rump were killed in the shooting at Club Q in Colorado Springs, Colo., that took place on Nov. 19, 2022, PEOPLE reported at the time, citing the Colorado Springs Police Department.

Anderson Lee Aldrich pleaded guilty to 74 hate crimes and firearms charges on Tuesday, June 18 and was sentenced to 55 consecutive life sentences and 190 years in prison, according to a press release issued by the Office of Public Affairs for the U.S. Department of Justice.

According to the Justice Department, "Aldrich admitted to murdering five people, injuring 19, and attempting to murder 26 more in a willful, deliberate, malicious, and premeditated attack at Club Q."

Todays sentencing makes clear that the Justice Department is committed to protecting the right of every person in this country to live free from the fear that they will be targeted by hate-fueled violence or discrimination based on who they are or who they love, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said in a statement, per the release.



Related: Army Veteran and Drag Performer Among the Heroes Who Stopped Club Q Gunman: 'I Was Done with War'

United States District Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney handed down the sentence and admonished the shooter, who uses they/them pronouns, for attacking a "community's safe space," according to ABC News.

"This community is much stronger than you, stronger than your armor and stronger than your weapons and sure as hell stronger than your hatred," Sweeney said, further noting the significance of them being sentenced during Pride month, an annual celebration that honors the LGBTQ community.

At the time of the sentencing, the shooter was already in prison for state charges they pleaded guilty to in 2023, per ABC News. They received five consecutive life sentences in that case, Colorado Public Radio reported.



Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post A memorial for victims of the shooting at Club Q

The shooter, who was 22 at the time, carried out the massacre on the eve of Transgender Day of Remembrance, PEOPLE reported at the time, citing authorities.

Ashtin Gamblin, who was working at the front door of Club Q on the night of the massacre, spoke at the sentencing. There was no regard for my life, there should be no regard for theirs, said Gamblin, who was shot nine times, CBS affiliate KKTV reported.

Some survivors said this is the "final chapter" of the rampage for them. This should be the end of it, hopefully, but I guess it will never end for us, survivor Ed Sanders said, according to KRDO.

Svetlana Heim, a former employee of the club, told the outlet she considers it "the last chapter of a book. It's done now. Very final.



Colorado Department of Corrections via AP Anderson Aldrich was sentenced to additional 55 life sentences after pleading guilty to 74 counts of hate crime

Related: Colorado Springs Survivor Recounts Terror of LGBTQ Club Shooting: 'All I Could Think of Was Pulse'

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

This was one of the most violent hate-fueled mass shootings targeting the LGBTQIA+ community in our nation's history, Assistant Attorney General of the U.S. Justice Departments Civil Rights Division Kristen Clarke said in a press conference following the sentencing.

Today's sentencing should send a loud message, she continued. We will not tolerate hate in our country and purveyors of bias-motivated violence will be held accountable for their actions."



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Read the original article on People.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Executive Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic in Brussels, Belgium, June 18, 2024. Ding and Sefcovic held the fifth High-Level Environment and Climate Dialogue between China and the European Union (EU) on Tuesday in Brussels. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

BRUSSELS, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The fifth High-Level Environment and Climate Dialogue between China and the European Union (EU) was held Tuesday in Brussels, with both sides agreeing to deepen green cooperation.

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Executive Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic held the dialogue.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that in recent years, Chinese President Xi Jinping and EU leaders have frequently held meetings and reached a lot of consensus on enhancing China-EU cooperation in green transformation.

Ding noted that China has consistently recognized Europe's crucial role in the multi-polar world and regards the EU as an important priority for China's major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics and also as an important partner for achieving Chinese modernization.

"We need to work together to implement the important consensus reached by Chinese and EU leaders, push for more fruitful cooperation on green transformation, and consolidate the momentum of stable and sound China-EU relations," Ding said.

Ding pointed out that China has firmly implemented its national strategy to address climate change, achieving remarkable results in green and low-carbon development. He noted that China has become an important participant, contributor, and leader in the construction of global ecological civilization.

Ding said that China has announced that it will peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. This commitment has been integrated into the overall framework of China's ecological civilization construction, as well as the country's economic and social development. A series of practical measures have also been formulated and implemented to ensure the realization of these goals on schedule.

"This is not what others want us to do, but what we need to do," Ding said.

Highlighting that China and the EU share extensive common interests and broad space for cooperation in green transformation, Ding emphasized that both sides should fully leverage the high-level dialogue mechanism, seek common ground while setting aside differences, maintain the positive momentum of environmental and climate cooperation, and deepen the China-EU green partnership.

"We need to tap the potential for cooperation in key areas and strengthen mutual learning in areas such as green energy, green and low-carbon technologies, plastic pollution control, and chemical environmental management," he said. "We should focus on building consensus on cooperation in multilateral processes, continue to play a positive and constructive role together, practice real multilateralism, and join hands in building a community for all life on Earth."

Ding emphasized that electric vehicles are a landmark product of the green and low-carbon energy transformation, and the EU's plan to impose additional duties on imports of Chinese electric vehicles is "typical protectionism."

"It is not conducive to the EU's green transformation and would undermine the global cooperation on climate change," he said.

Ding voiced his hope that the EU will enhance the consistency of its policies on environmental, climate, and economic and trade cooperation with China. He stressed the importance of avoiding economic and trade frictions that could delay the green transition process and urged against establishing green barriers that would interfere with normal economic and trade cooperation.

"The two sides should resolve trade frictions through dialogue and consultation. China is firm in its resolve to safeguard its legitimate and lawful interests," he said.

Sefcovic said China has a pivotal influence in global affairs, and maintaining good relations with China is of great importance to the EU. He appreciated China's strong measures and notable results in promoting green and low-carbon development.

He noted that the EU side is willing to deepen cooperation with China in areas such as tackling climate change and protecting the ecological environment, and to work together to ensure the success of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, thereby leading global environmental and climate governance.

He also noted that the EU attaches great importance to the development of the electric vehicle industry and is willing to properly handle differences with China through dialogue.

The relevant departments of both sides engaged in dialogue and exchanges on issues such as addressing climate change and protecting the ecological environment. They reviewed the outcomes of practical cooperation since the fourth high-level dialogue and discussed the next steps for collaboration. 

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Executive Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic in Brussels, Belgium, June 18, 2024. Ding and Sefcovic held the fifth High-Level Environment and Climate Dialogue between China and the European Union (EU) on Tuesday in Brussels. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  A dining brand referred to as Americas Steakhouse will return to Columbus after previously closing its only location in Ohio the year before.

Smith & Wollensky will open a new Columbus location in 2025, the company announced Tuesday. The new Arena District steakhouse  the seventh nationwide in the chain  will be located in a fully renovated first-floor space at the Hyatt Regency Columbus Hotel at 350 N. High St.

In January 2023, the Smith & Wollensky location in Easton Town Center closed its kitchen after 20 years in business.

Owner of Toys R Us, Anne Klein to acquire Columbus-based Express Inc.

We were deeply missed by the community when our previous venue closed at the end of our 20-year lease, said Nathan Evans, Brand President of Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group. Now, we are excited not just to serve our loyal guests again but to be part of the fabric of downtown and the vibrant Arena District.

Known for its USDA Prime dry-aged steaks and America Wagyu, Smith & Wollensky promised that its new location would deliver the same quality patrons have come to expect. The restaurants steaks are sourced by its restaurant partners at Double R Ranch and Snake River Farms. Each steak is hand-butchered in-house and char-broiled to guests desired temperature.

The restaurant in the Hyatt will feature elegant dining rooms, an expansive patio fronting High Street and valet service. It will include both indoor and outdoor spaces, with a combined capacity of over 300 seats with three private dining rooms and a large U-shaped bar.

See five historic Columbus buildings added to endangered sites list

Phaze Zero Design is working with Smith & Wollensky to help bring the restaurant to life.

Established in 1977, Smith & Wollensky features seven U.S. locations including Miami Beach, Chicago, Las Vegas and Boston.

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.
STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  The Stafford County Sheriffs Office (SCSO) said a Goodwill employee discovered a snake in a box of donated books.

No snakes, employees, or deputies were harmed during the incident, SCSO said in a news release.

Stafford County Sheriffs Office looking for owner of missing goat

The captain of animal control responded to a Goodwill, located at 72 Doc Stone Road, after a 4-foot-long basilisk was found slithering in a box of donated books.

Using his powers of persuasion, and a bit of Parseltongue the captain was able to capture the snake and release it into the wild again, SCSO 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 DC News Now | Washington, DC.
People pass by the New York Stock Exchange with a banner for Snap Inc. on its facade in 2017. The Santa Monica company has agreed to pay $15 million to resolve allegations of sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation. (Richard Drew / Associated Press)

Snap Inc. and Californias Civil Rights Department have reached a $15-million settlement to resolve allegations of sexual harassment, discrimination and retaliation at the Santa Monica-based company.

The settlement brings to a close a more-than-three-year investigation into allegations of employment discrimination, equal pay violations, and sexual harassment. Nearly all the money from the agreement will go toward current and former female employees who worked at the company in 2014 and later.

Snap denies the allegations but said it agreed to settle to avoid a prolonged legal fight.

We care deeply about our commitment to maintain a fair and inclusive environment at Snap, and do not believe we have any ongoing systemic pay equity, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation issues against women, Snap spokesperson Russ Caditz-Peck said in an emailed statement.

Snap, which created the popular social media and messaging app Snapchat, grew quickly after its founding in 2011, with its workforce ballooning from 250 in 2015 to over 5,000 in 2022. During that period, women were discouraged from applying for promotions and were subject to unwelcome sexual advances and other harassment, the Civil Rights Department alleged in legal filings.

"This settlement with Snapchat demonstrates a shared commitment to a California where all workers have a fair chance," Kevin Kish, director of California's Civil Rights Department, said in a Wednesday news release. "Women are entitled to equality in every job, in every workplace, and in every industry.

The case against Snap compiled by the Civil Rights Department portrayed a toxic office culture dominated by men. When women filed complaints internally about harassment, they allegedly were denied promotions, given negative performance reviews or were fired. Male managers, meanwhile, routinely promoted male employees over more qualified women, according to the civil rights complaint.

Women at the company were generally paid less than their male counterparts, the complaint alleged. In particular, women in engineering roles, which account for about 70% of Snaps workforce, faced barriers and struggled to advance beyond entry-level positions.

"Women were told, both implicitly and explicitly, that they were second-class citizens at Snap," the complaint reads.

Caditz-Peck, the Snap spokesperson, said the company disagreed with the California Civil Rights Departments claims and analyses," but "took into consideration the cost and impact of lengthy litigation ... and decided it is in the best interest of the company to resolve these claims and focus on the future."

"For several years now we have successfully implemented tools and governance to achieve pay equity, and we will keep investing in and implementing policies to ensure team members continue to be valued and paid equitably for their work," he said.

As part of the settlement, Snapchat agreed to hire an independent consultant to examine and make recommendations on the company's pay and promotion policies, as well as workplace training.

The company will also be required to hire an outside monitor to audit Snapchat's handling of sexual harassment and discrimination complaints and share its findings with the Civil Rights Department.

The company also agreed to give information to all employees about their right to report harassment or discrimination without fear of retaliation and ensure they complete training on preventing these workplace issues.

Sign up for our Wide Shot newsletter to get the latest entertainment business news, analysis and insights.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Bizarro world

Dont know what world Economy: Good or Bad is living in. They say the economy is doing very well and if some segments are not doing well it is because we are a capitalist society. Really? Look back to the pre-COVID Trump economy: All segments were doing extremely well, with low-to-mid income and minorities greatly improving, because we had a real full scale capitalist in charge.

Feel safer

Even if President Biden is slowing down some, Ill feel much safer with him since I know he is surrounded by good knowledgeable people instead of Donald Trump, who we know will only surround himself with loyalists and yes men.

Too many people

In 1970 the Earth had 3.7 billion people. In 2023, it is 8 billion. How many people can this earth support? I think we have surpassed that number. There are too many people using up too many resources. Just a thought.

Where are the workers?

Months have elapsed since whomever started putting up temporary concrete walls in the middle of Highway 49 in Gulfport. There has been a steady decline in numbers of workers on site to the point that weve not seen a single worker there in weeks. Whats up Gulfport?

Canceled

President Bidens discount for WiFi coverage was not renewed by Congress. It saved me $30 monthly. Why would they cancel something that benefited so many of us? This Congress is controlled by lobbyists for big businesses. Anything for individual taxpayers is never a priority and often labeled welfare by conservatives.

Comics

I used to like to read Pickles in the comics but not anymore with the new Sun Herald.

Remember when?

People are worried about the cost of Jill Biden to flying to France for political obligations. Lets remember that when Donald Trump was president, he held political events at his hotels, charged the government, and pocketed the money. Even Secret Service stayed at his hotels. No president is supposed to make a profit off of their position. Trump did just that. No other president in history has done this because its wrong.

Send your Sound Offs to soundoff@sunherald.com.
Ukraine's State Investigation Bureau is preparing to bring criminal charges against Vitaly Shabunin, head of the Anti-Corruption Action Center's executive board, a law enforcement source told the Kyiv Independent on June 19.

Shabunin is expected to be charged with evading military service and illegally using a car acquired by volunteers for the army. Previously the information was also reported by a source cited by the Ukrainian news agency Interfax.

Shabunin, who joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a volunteer at the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022 and has served since then, denied the accusations and said the cases were fabricated. Shabunin, one of Ukraine's most influential anti-corruption crusaders, believes the cases to be a political vendetta against him by the President's Office, including President Volodymyr Zelensky's deputy chief of staff Oleh Tatarov.

The President's Office did not respond to requests for comment, while the State Investigation Bureau's spokesperson Olena Hitlianska said she could not comment on the report.

Shabunin has regularly criticized Tatarov, who was charged with bribery in 2020. The case against Tatarov has been obstructed by law enforcement agencies and closed.

"I've just found out from Interfax that Tatarov and Co. will try to jail me," Shabunin wrote on Facebook on June 19. "...I'm reiterating this for Tatarov and Co.: I joined the army as a volunteer during the first days of the full-scale invasion - on Feb. 25, 2022."

In March Shabunin posted a photo of his military ID, which indicates that he joined the Ukrainian army on that day.

Shabunin also said that he had legal grounds for demobilization but was not using them.

Commenting on the accusations of illegally using a car, Shabunin said that the vehicle had been transferred to him personally, not to his military unit. He added that, under Ukrainian law, he was not required to transfer it to the unit.

Shabunin also said that the car was being used on the front line in eastern Ukraine but he would use it again if it was needed for his military service.

"Why is the President's Office going after me?" Shabunin wrote. "Maybe because I'm regularly reporting on the way Tatarov runs Ukraine's law enforcement system. Maybe because I'm writing about the way the President's Office is replacing the state."

He added that the Anti-Corruption Action Center "is constantly destroying the authorities' anti-democratic and corrupt initiatives."

This is not the first time the authorities are accused of fabricating a criminal case against Shabunin as payback for his anti-corruption campaigns.

Under previous President Petro Poroshenko, Shabunin was charged in 2017 with beating a pro-government blogger. Shabunin admitted hitting him as payback for him insulting a female colleague but said that the blogger did not sustain any serious injuries and falsified a medical examination.

The case has seen no progress in court since then.

Tatarov, whom Shabinin accused of orchestrating the 2024 case, allegedly holds considerable influence over law enforcement agencies, according to investigative journalists.

He has become the symbol of Zelenskiy's tolerance of corruption in his inner circle. Despite the controversies, Zelensky has refused to suspend or fire Tatarov.

Tatarov was charged by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) in 2020 with giving an Hr 250,000 ($10,000) bribe to a forensic expert on behalf of ex-lawmaker Maksym Mykytas.

The case has been obstructed and effectively destroyed by ex-Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova, a Zelensky protege; the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and Ukraines corrupt judiciary.

In 2020, then Deputy Prosecutor General Oleksiy Symonenko used a court ruling as a pretext to transfer the Tatarov case from the independent NABU to the presidentially controlled Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). The NABU believes the transfer of the Tatarov case to be unlawful since it is entirely within the bureaus jurisdiction.

Then Symonenko replaced the group of prosecutors in the Tatarov case in what appeared to be another effort to sabotage it.

Another effort to block the case happened in 2021, when a court refused to extend the Tatarov investigation. Prosecutors subordinate to Symonenko effectively buried it by missing the deadline for sending it to trial.

Read also: Oleg Sukhov: US should sanction these 2 symbols of Ukraines corruption

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
BERLIN, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The share of Germany's imports of fully electric cars from China continued to rise and reached 40.9 percent in the first four months of 2024, according to figures published by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) on Tuesday.

Despite a decline of 15.7 percent to 31,500 units due to weak German domestic demand, China remained the most important supplier of all-electric cars to Europe's largest economy. In the same period last year, the share was still around 30 percent.

Germany's total imports of all-electric vehicles fell by 45.3 percent in the months to April, according to the figures. Imports from countries such as the Czech Republic and South Korea saw particularly sharp declines.

Despite clear warnings from industry, the European Union (EU) recently announced higher tariffs on electric cars from China. From July, import taxes are expected to be raised to up to 38.1 percent, which would affect all car manufacturers in China, including German companies producing there.

"This measure further increases the risk of a global trade conflict," said Hildegard Mueller, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), emphasizing the industry's commitment to free and fair trade.

The so-called "countervailing duties" on electric cars imported from China were "not suitable for strengthening the competitiveness of the European automotive industry," Mueller added. "The fact is that we need China to solve global problems."

China remains Germany's most important sales market for cars, as one in three exported cars still went there in the first quarter, according to consulting firm Ernst and Young (EY). 
By Siyabonga Sishi and Thando Hlophe

PRETORIA (Reuters) -A weakened South African President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged on Wednesday that his new multi-party government would work to improve basic living conditions for all citizens as he was sworn in for a second term in office.

Ramaphosa's African National Congress will be sharing power with five other parties after it was humbled in a May 29 election, losing its parliamentary majority for the first time in 30 years of democracy.

The voters "have been unequivocal in expressing their disappointment and disapproval of our performance in some of the areas in which we have failed them," Ramaphosa said at his inauguration ceremony in the capital Pretoria.

He said the voters wanted everyone to have enough food, decent homes, clean water, affordable and uninterrupted electricity supply, well-maintained roads, good care for the sick and elderly, quality schools and other basic services.

"Today, I stand before you as your humble servant to say we have heard you," he said. "In this moment we must choose to move forward, to close the distances between South Africans and to build a more equal society."

The ANC remains the largest party after the election, followed by the pro-business Democratic Alliance, a critic of the ANC's record in office which has agreed to join the new government.

IDEOLOGICAL DIVISIONS

While investors have welcomed the inclusion of the DA, which wants to boost growth through structural reforms and prudent fiscal policies, analysts say sharp ideological divisions between the parties could make the government unstable.

Just before the election, Ramaphosa signed into law a National Health Insurance bill that the DA says could collapse a creaking health system. It was unclear what would happen to that law under the new government.

The DA advocates scrapping the ANC's flagship Black economic empowerment programme, saying it hasn't worked -- a highly contentious topic in a nation grappling with huge inequalities, some inherited from apartheid.

Ramaphosa has yet to announce the make-up of his new government, to be negotiated with members of the new alliance.

A former liberation movement, the ANC came to power under Nelson Mandela's leadership in the 1994 elections that marked the end of apartheid and had long been unbeatable, but it lost its shine after presiding over years of decline.

POVERTY AND CRIME

Weary of high levels of poverty and unemployment, rampant crime, rolling power cuts and corruption in party ranks, voters punished the ANC, which lost millions of votes on May 29 compared with the previous election in 2019.

"Our society remains deeply unequal and highly polarised," Ramaphosa said.

"We are divided between those who have jobs and those who do not work, between those who have the means to build and enjoy a comfortable life and those who do not."

African heads of state and dignitaries from as far afield as Cuba, a historical friend of the ANC, gathered outside the Union Buildings in Pretoria, seat of the South African government, to bear witness to Ramaphosa's inauguration.

A ceremony full of military pomp and pageantry began with inter-faith prayers by Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish and traditional African religious leaders, reflecting the country's diversity.

Military helicopters flew past in blazing sunshine, trailing South African flags, to cheers from the audience.

(Additional reporting by Nellie Peyton and Sfundo Parakozov; Writing by Estelle Shirbon; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was sworn in on Wednesday for a second term in office.

The 71-year-old is to preside over a coalition government for the next five years, after his African National Congress party lost its majority for the first time in elections on May 29.

Ramaphosa took the oath of office in front of the Union Buildings, the official seat of government in the capital Pretoria.

He had been confirmed as head of state by the newly elected parliament a few days previously. The next step is for Ramaphosa to appoint his cabinet.

The so-called Government of National Unity sought by the ANC includes the economically liberal Democratic Alliance (DA), the Zulu-dominated Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and two small parties, Patriotic Alliance (PA) and GOOD. The ANC says it is still in talks with other parties that could also join the coalition.

The government alliance will probably be formed without any firm coalition agreements. Political analysts have questioned the stability and effectiveness of such a form of government.

South Africa is becoming increasingly important internationally due to its position in a continent rich in the raw material reserves needed for the energy transition. The country is also the only African member of the group of major economies (G20).
MANILA/HONG KONG (Reuters) - Huddled in the presidential situation room in February last year, senior Philippines officials faced a stark choice.

Military and intelligence leaders watched as coast guard officers showed photos of what the agency said was a military-grade laser that China had pointed at a Philippines ship in disputed waters days earlier.

Eduardo Ano, the national security adviser and chair of the South China Sea taskforce, had to decide whether to release the pictures and risk Beijing's ire, or refrain from aggravating his giant neighbour.

"The public deserves to know," the retired general told the officials. "Publish the photographs."

The previously undisclosed meeting marked a pivotal moment, as Manila began a publicity blitz to highlight the intensifying territorial dispute in the South China Sea, where the ramming of ships, use of water cannons and ensuing diplomatic protests have sharply raised tensions.

"It was a turning point and the birth of the transparency policy," National Security Council spokesperson Jonathan Malaya, who attended the meeting and recounted the exchange, told Reuters. "The goal was to eventually impose severe costs to Beijing's reputation, image and standing."

Malaya said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr had directed officials to "civilianise and internationalise" the dispute, which they had achieved by using the coast guard and routinely embedding foreign journalists on missions. "This became an important component of building international support for the Philippines, because our audience is also foreign governments," he added.

This account of the Philippines' policy switch and its implications is based on interviews with 20 Philippine and Chinese officials, regional diplomats and analysts. They said publicising China's actions, combined with Manila's deepened military alliance with the U.S., had constrained Beijing's ability to escalate matters at sea but raised the risks of Chinese economic retaliation and U.S. involvement.

The February 2023 meeting occurred days after Marcos granted the U.S. access to four more military bases in the Philippines, rekindling defence ties that had suffered under his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.

"China has few escalatory options left without triggering the U.S.-Philippines mutual defence treaty and risking a military confrontation between Chinese and U.S. forces," said Ian Storey, a security scholar at Singapore's ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute.

Marcos has also pursued a diplomatic offensive, gaining statements of support for the Philippines' position from countries such as Canada, Germany, India and Japan.

The South China Sea is rich in oil and gas. About $3 trillion in trade passes through it annually. U.S. access to Philippine bases could prove important in a war over Taiwan.

China, whose claims to most of the sea were invalidated by an international tribunal in 2016, says Philippine vessels illegally intrude into waters surrounding disputed shoals. It has warned Marcos, who took office in June 2022, against misjudging the situation.

"This is brinkmanship, poker," said Philippine legal scholar Jay Batongbacal. "Brinkmanship is taking things to the edge, trying to see who loses his nerve. Poker is a game of bluffing and deception  one could be doing both at the same time."

In response to Reuters questions, China's foreign ministry said the Philippines had been stoking tensions with "provocative actions at sea in an attempt to infringe on China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights".

China, it said, would defend its interests while handling the dispute peacefully through dialogue.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson said Manila's transparency initiative had succeeded in calling greater attention to China's "disregard for international law" and actions that endangered Philippine service members.

The spokesperson would not comment on the risk of U.S. military involvement but said the U.S. would support the Philippines if it faced economic coercion from China.

'AWAKE AT NIGHT'

The conflict is over Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal, where the Philippine navy maintains a rusting warship, BRP Sierra Madre, that it beached in 1999 to reinforce Manila's sovereignty claims. A small crew is stationed on it.

Chinese ships have sought to block resupply missions, by encircling Philippine vessels and firing water cannons that in March shattered a boat's windshield, injuring its crew. Manila released footage of the incident; China said it acted lawfully and professionally.

In February, Philippine ships recorded Chinese counterparts placing a barrier across the entrance to Scarborough Shoal. This week, both sides traded accusations over a collision involving their vessels near Second Thomas Shoal.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Jay Tarriela taunts Chinese officials and state media on X, sometimes posting drone footage of maritime clashes. "If I were doing anything incorrect, I would have been shut down," he said.

Tarriela said the transparency drive had worked, by galvanising support for Manila while the threshold of China's aggression had not changed, despite an increase in incidents.

"They are still depending on their water cannon ... they are still stuck with that kind of tactic," he said.

The number of Chinese vessels around Second Thomas Shoal during Philippine resupply missions has grown from a single ship on average in 2021 to around 14 in 2023, the Center for Strategic and International Studies said in January.

Last month, China's coast guard came within metres of the Sierra Madre and seized supplies air-dropped to troops stationed there, according to Philippine officials. China, whose navy patrolled nearby, said Filipino soldiers pointed guns at its coast guard; Manila said they just held their weapons.

Philippine officials say they fear a fatal accident could escalate into open hostilities.

"That keeps a lot of us awake at night," the Philippines' ambassador to Washington, Jose Manuel Romualdez, told Reuters.

Manila also wants to avoid the kind of economic pressure it faced around a decade ago, when protracted Chinese customs checks caused Philippine bananas to rot on Chinese docks.

China was the Philippines' second-biggest export market in 2023, taking nearly $11 billion worth or 14.8% of all its shipments. China is the Philippines' top source of imports, mainly refined petroleum products and electronics.

Romualdez said Manila hoped China would "see the value of continuing our economic activity while trying to peacefully resolve the issue".

Edcel John Ibarra, a political scientist at the University of the Philippines, said Marcos risks provoking China into "a harder approach", such as non-tariff barriers and tourism restrictions. He pointed to changes China announced in May that allow its coast guard to detain foreigners without trial for 60 days.

'PARADIGM SHIFT'

The intensity of Manila's campaign has surprised its neighbours. Vietnam and Malaysia, which also have maritime disputes with Beijing, have been more cautious about what they release from their skirmishes with China.

"We are all watching this and talking amongst ourselves," said one Asian diplomat, who was not authorised to be named. "The Philippines has carved out a new strategy in standing up to Beijing over a point of friction."

Marcos said in December that diplomacy with China had achieved little, calling on Southeast Asia "to come up with a paradigm shift".

China's state media have expressed irritation with the transparency push.

The Philippines has been "playing the victim to deceive international public opinions", the state-backed Global Times said in an op-ed in May.

A key aspect of Manila's approach has been solidifying the U.S. alliance. Both countries made clear in May last year that their defence treaty also covers the coast guard. In April, Marcos participated in an unprecedented summit with his U.S. and Japanese counterparts.

A U.S. official involved in U.S.-China talks that month said Chinese officials have complained about these diplomatic breakthroughs behind closed doors, adding that Beijing was "feeling the squeeze".

Some Chinese scholars, like Zha Daojiong, at Peking University's School of International Studies, say the situation is at an impasse and that China will continue to be "essentially reactive" at flashpoints like Second Thomas Shoal.

"By responding to the Philippines' action, I guess they want to keep the message that this shoal is in dispute," he said.

(This story has been refiled to correct the name of institute in paragraph 10)

(Additional reporting by Laurie Chen, Simon Lewis and Mikhail Flores; editing by Antoni Slodkowski and David Crawshaw)


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Representatives from Americas 47,000-ish Southern Baptist churches met last week to discuss church business, as they do every year. On the agenda: voting on whether to bar women from serving as pastors in the church, discussing why theyve done diddly squat about their clergy child-molestation problem, and voting for the first time on whether embryos conceived via in vitro fertilization should be protected with more gusto than living schoolchildren.

They could have grabbed some much-needed positive press by clearing the very low bar theyve set for themselves. They could have made a statement by resoundingly upholding the rights of women to speak in religious contexts. They could have finally done something to stop sexual predators from using evangelical churches as hunting grounds. Or gee, I dont know, they could have stood up for a very popular fertility treatment from which many of their members have benefited, perhaps.

Instead, the convention voted to formally oppose most forms of IVF. The resolution declares that members of the church should reaffirm the unconditional value and right to life of every human being, including those in an embryonic stage, and to only utilize reproductive technologies consistent with that affirmation, especially in the number of embryos generated in the I.V.F. process. Basically, the Baptists have issues with the fact that a lot of the time, IVF involves the creation of more embryos than will go on to become people.

No humans in the embryonic stage could be reached for comment.

Now the headlines are focused on how the wacky Bible thumpers have formalized belief in medical fiction. The New Republic declared that the vote was a terrifying sign of whats to come. The Today show ran with the angle Families show support of IVF as Southern Baptists take stand (never a great look to publicly align opposite families as a religious organization).

Lets get one thing clear here: Since nonviable blastocysts will never become human babies, the SBC proclamation is, functionally, a condemnation of IVF as a whole. Its impossible to fertilize eggs in a manner that will only result in viable embryos. No matter how much prayer and science is lavished upon every zygote, human fertility and zygotic viability is a numbers game.

It doesnt help the SBCs case that IVF is very popular, even among Southern Baptists, many of whom have IVF to thank for the existence of their children or grandchildren. (Its also quite popular among the growing number of young people and adults who were conceived through IVF, not to mention among their friends and families.) A March CBS/YouGov poll found that 86 percent of Americans believe that IVF should be legal. An Alabama Supreme Court ruling earlier this year that declared embryos to be the exact same thing as human children was met with sea-to-shining-sea condemnation, flop-sweat-soaked statements from elected Republicans, and Democrats, for weeks, looking like the cat that caught the canary on every cable-news hit. Its not as if public opinion of fetal personhood is a mysterythe public has made its opinions known.

Bearing all this in mind, we have to ask: Why would Southern Baptists take up this question in the first place? Its a losing issue for them. Its an own-goal. Its them kicking themselves squarely in the nuts. Why would a church that believes, more than anything, that its mission is to convert more people to Christianity do so much to elevate the opinions of Christianitys most hateful fools by highlighting their least popular opinions?

Either the largest sect of Protestants in the U.S. are in denial about their own dwindling influence or they know something we dont about how a religion that comprises only 4 percent of the U.S. population no longer needs to worry about winning hearts and minds.

There are fewer than 13 million Southern Baptists in the U.S.; fewer than ten thousand of those vote at the sects annual meeting. Walt Disney World gets more than four times as many annual visitors as Southern Baptist-affiliated churches; there are probably more Americans who have thrown up on Space Mountain than have ever voted for an SBC resolution. Still, the fringe beliefs of this sect of American Christianity are driving the ship on the moral stances of the GOP as a whole. Just last week, GOP senators blocked the advancement of a bill that would have federally guaranteed access to IVF, all while purring empty platitudes about how of course they personally support IVF . Just not enough to upset any of the eight thousand or so jowly Southern geezers who thumbs-downed fertility science. Just not enough to net an easy public-relations layup in an election year.

The Southern Baptist Conventionand other American religions that promote views stereotypically endorsed by miserable, Thanksgiving-ruining uncleshave the GOP by the balls. These religions have long ago abandoned any illusions that they are not political organizations. Pastors routinely preach about politics, and the politicians among its ranks, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, routinely treat political speeches like sermons. They have, for decades, aggressively opposed public policies supporting abortion access and LGBTQ rights, even though the New Testament has way more stuff in it about feeding the poor than it does about zygotes.

Ever since six Catholic Supreme Court justices voted to overturn Roe v. Wade two years ago, the American right has found itself in a bit of disarray over what to do next about abortion. As it has scrambled, its disorganized overreach has led to loss after loss at the ballot boxfrom Ohio to Montana to Kansas. Anti-choice right-wingers cant seem to resist drawing attention to the thing that many members of the non-wingnut public find the most creepy and off-putting about themtheir preoccupation with legislating the private reproductive choices of other people, the chair-sniffing obsession with women who do not want to spend their late teens through early forties slowly birthing a T-ball team. The absurd implication that, given the choice between rescuing or adopting a tray of extra IVF embryos or a three-year-old child from a fire, the moral choice would be the tray.

Even before all this, though, and despite their outsized influence on American conservative thought, the numbers are not trending well for Southern Baptists. Since its peak in 2006, the SBC has lost almost three and a half million membersa quarter million between 2022 and 2023 alone . That dropoff in membership was not helped by a massive clergy sex abuse problem unearthed by the Houston Chronicle , which revealed that despite its decentralized-by-design leadership structure, the SBC had been systematically shielding sexual predators from punishment, silencing abuse survivors, and creating trails of victims by moving offenders from church to church.

All recent polling shows a drop in Americans who consider church important to them across all major denominations. The youngest three generations are rife with atheists and agnostics and people who have a relationship with the divine that they say exists without the aid of a corny youth pastor who wears hemp jewelry and smells like Davidoff Cool Water. Christians are dying off more quickly than theyre being bornor born again. And church leaders are either in denial or believe that they can muscle their way back.

The SBCs IVF vote overshadowed a moment of crowd-pleasing inclusionor, more accurately, non-exclusion. The conferences attendees were expected to change the groups loose set of bylaws to specify that only men were allowed to be pastors and homilists in the church. The groundwork was set; a requisite two thirds of members voted in favor of the men-only rule at last years Southern Baptist Geezer Party, but this year, only 61 percent of attendees agreed with the proposed rule, which meant that the proposal failed. But in the context of the IVF vote, the mildly pro-woman move only proved that the SBC believes that Aunt Lydia can be a girlboss, too.

Back in the 1600s, the Baptist faith started as a radical sect of Christianity that encouraged women to speak during worship services, stood firmly against the intermingling of church and state, and insisted on baptizing only consenting adults into the faith. Today, its legacy, the Southern Baptist Convention, has rejected all these things and instead embraced an agenda of creepy Christofascism and clergy sex-pest apologia. But at least somebody finally stood up for the frozen embryos, right?

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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Did you happen to catch a white streak of smoke glowing in the San Diego night sky? Well, that was a SpaceX launch.

The rocket liftoff took place Tuesday at 8:40 p.m. from the Vandenberg Space Force Station near Santa Barbara.

SpaceX launched Falcon 9 carrying 20 Starlink satellites, including 13 with Direct to Cell capabilities, the space agency said on its website.

This SD-area campground is one of the most in-demand sites in the U.S. this summer

The launch was seen throughout San Diego County from Kearny Mesa, La Mesa and Carlsbad to Point Loma, Ocean Beach and Chula Vista.

Tuesdays SpaceX launch is the fifth flight for the first stage booster supporting this mission, which previously launched USSF-62 and three Starlink missions.

Around 8:49 p.m., Falcon 9 landed on Of Course I Still Love You droneship in the Pacific Ocean following stage separation.

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.
A new chapter awaits for Black Garnet Books, which is believed to be the only Black-owned book store in Minnesota.

In a post on the store's Instagram page, owner Dionne Sims revealed that she plans to sell Black Garnet, which opened in St. Paul's Midway neighborhood in 2021 with the help of a $100,000 Neighborhood STAR grant from the city.

"I feel so content with what I've built, and so grateful to the people who've built it with me. it's with a heart filled to the brim with gratitude that I say I'm ready to pass this dream to the next person," wrote Sims. "This bookstore has the foundation to continue for years to come, and I realized that's what I wanted to accomplish."

Sims, who operated Black Garnet as an online and pop-up shop before opening in St. Paul, wrote that she plans to go back to school to prepare for a writing career. Her Instagram post includes a pitch for a hoped-for future owner of the store.

"Black Garnet Books is a manifestation of so many things that are bigger than me," wrote Sims, who has not responded to requests for comment. "Bigger than the very simple dream I had of making sure there's always a Black-owned bookstore in my home of Minnesota. a dream I know is shared by so many people here."
Eugene Vindman appears at a campaign event in June 2024 as he campaigns for the Democratic nomination in Virginias seventh congressional district. (Facebook: Eugene Vindman)

Yevgeny Eugene Vindman has won the Democratic primary in Virginias seventh congressional district and will go on to represent his party in November as Democrats hope to keep the seat held by retiring Representative Abigail Spanberger.

The race on Tuesday was called just after 8:00 p.m. with about 15 percent of the vote counted. Vindman was sitting above 50 percent when the outcome was declared; his closest rivals had split the vote and thus failed to break 20 percent. His total shrunk to just under half of the electorate as more votes came in, but his lead remained commanding.

Vindman, 49, is a native of Ukraine and moved with his family to the United States in 1979. He joined the Army, and it was his military service that led him and his brother to working with the White House National Security Council during the Trump administration in 2020.

The brothers were ultimately drawn into the first Trump impeachment saga after they filed a whistleblower complaint alleging that Trump had pushed Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky, in a phone call to open an embarrassing criminal investigation into Joe Biden during the election year. The complaint led to Trumps first impeachment by the House of Representatives, though he was acquitted in a Senate trial.

The lieutenant colonels victory on Tuesday was hardly a surprise: An internal poll released by his campaign earlier this month showed him as the clear favorite, thanks in part to his national prominence at Trumps first impeachment.

The would-be congressman also entered the race with powerful national allies, including the anti-Trump conservative Lincoln Project as well as California Rep. Adam Schiff, a prominent House Democrat who served as impeachment manager for Donald Trump and later as a member of the bipartisan January 6 investigation.

Eugene Vindman appears at a campaign event in June 2024 as he campaigns for the Democratic nomination in VA-07 (Facebook: Eugene Vindman)

But what Vindman has won in national support, he has lacked in local political connections. As primary day drew closer, both Democrats and Republicans in Virginia expressed discomfort over his candidacy to The Independent. One writer with a Richmond-based publication described Vindman as having been airdropped into the congressional race by leaders in the party from outside of Virginia.

Earlier this month, Clifford Hainzer, a Democratic primary opponent, told The Independent: Its not hard to see why there may be some saying, Hey, wait a second, weve been out here doing it. Why is [the media] paying so much attention to the candidates whove raised the most money instead of the candidates who have been out doing the hard work?

Vindman heads into the November election facing quiet concerns from Democrats that he may lack the local political capital necessary to keep the seat in the party. Regardless, all of those who spoke to The Independent, including critics in his own party, said that they planned to support him for the seat with enthusiasm after the primary concluded.

Spanberger, who currently holds the seat, is already campaigning for Virginia governor with the intent of taking the states highest office back for the Democrats. Glenn Youngkin, the states Republican governor, is limited to one term as governor under state law.

The seventh congressional district is one of Virginias purplest and includes parts of the I-95 corridor as well as rural and suburban parts of Stafford County.
MEXICO CITY, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Tuesday said the decision of the United States to suspend agricultural inspections of avocados and mangoes in Mexico's western Michoacan state over security concerns was a "unilateral" move.

Speaking at his daily press conference, Lopez Obrador also suggested the move could be politically motivated given the proximity of presidential elections in the United States.

"We are already looking into an agreement, we are already seeking an agreement" to continue the inspections and the trade in those crops, he told reporters at the National Palace in Mexico City.

"There are always these unilateral measures, but those are their policies," he stressed.

The U.S. embassy in Mexico confirmed Tuesday that two U.S. Department of Agriculture employees working for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service were attacked and detained recently while inspecting avocados in Michoacan.

In response, the U.S. government decided to suspend its inspections of avocados and mangoes in the state until the security situation improves.

The measure does not affect other Mexican states that export agricultural products to the United States nor does it block products currently in transit, according to the embassy.

"The decision is based on the existing concern for the safety of personnel in Michoacan, not on phytosanitary concerns," said the president.

Mexico is the top trading partner of the United States, according to the most recent official data. 
Of all the booby prizes contained in the Labour Party manifesto (aside from crippling tax rises, larger class sizes, and net-zero mania), there is one big lie. It is the biggest fib in British politics right now. If Conservative supporters feel disappointed today, they will very swiftly be left betrayed when the new Labour government plays this trick. Sir Keir Starmer has promised to stop the boats by smashing criminal gangs. Do not believe the con.

Having served as attorney general and home secretary, Ive seen up close how complex this is. As a barrister, before I was an MP, I used to defend the then home secretary in court on asylum and immigration cases. This experience has brought me to the view that the only way to stop the boats is to leave the European Convention on Human Rights.

That is how we lawfully restrict the rights of illegal migrants to claim asylum (many are economic migrants and fleeing a safe country, France) and relocate them to Rwanda where they can be resettled in a safe and humane way. Deterring people from coming to the UK is how we break the model of the people-smuggling gangs. Thats why the concept of the Rwanda scheme is the right one.

But back to Labour. Of course, Sir Keir goes nowhere near the solution Ive set out above. Instead, he offers smoke and mirrors.

His proposed method of stopping illegal arrivals consists of scrapping the Rwanda scheme (so removing the only deterrent), setting up a new cross-border police unit to get real-time intelligence with partners in Europe (replicating the very thing I set up but with a different name), clearing the asylum backlog (for which, read amnesty), and helping poorer countries to prevent people leaving them in the first place (because billions of pounds in international aid over the years has been so successful in solving the global migration crisis).

To zero in on just one of those issues  the effective amnesty  Labour could start considering Rwanda migrants for asylum within weeks of taking power as it attempts to achieve its superficial ambition of ending the use of hotels in a year. As The Telegraph reported this week, the party is investigating using discretionary powers to switch up to 90,000 migrants earmarked for Rwanda flights into the asylum system. It would be a gift to the people-smugglers, who may then promise asylum to more victims.

This is a dangerous game. Those who want to stop the boats should know that Labour will not fix this problem. The partys proposed solutions are ineffective, superficial and demonstrate a profound unwillingness to grapple with the problem.

Sir Keir offers little to nothing when it comes to tackling the merry-go-round of legal claims and appeals that illegal migrants use to prolong their stay in the UK. He has almost nothing to say about how too many activist lawyers aid and abet illegal migrants to game the system. Nowhere is there robust thinking about the complexities of our asylum system or how to deal with hundreds of millions of people on the move from the developing South to the West. This is tinkering, tweaking and fantasy, at best.

Or rather, it is paying lip service to the millions of Britons who are infuriated by the sight of thousands of people crossing illegally into our country.

The Labour leader must be thinking, Quick, lets find some stuff that looks tough on this, and then we can forget about it. After all, it was Sir Keir who said that a racist undercurrent permeates all immigration law, and signed a letter to stop the removal of foreign criminals.

So dont delude yourself. If youre angry with the Conservatives, I understand. But dont vote Labour expecting the boats to stop.

Very quickly after July 4, the summer will enter full swing and it will be open season for illegal migrants on the Channel.

The gangs will explode, the adverts encouraging migrants to get on a dinghy to the UK will go crazy, and we will again become the number one destination for millions of illegal arrivals. The numbers we saw last year will look minuscule compared to what awaits us under Labour.

I appreciate the choice is not easy for many people. But you have been warned: Labour will not stop the boats.

Rt Hon Suella Braverman is a former home secretary

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In the wake of news that Labour intends to tax private education, parents across the country have been reassessing their finances to determine if they can weather a hike in fees.

For Amanda, a single parent from a working class background, private school is a necessity, and Labours tax raid could force her to choose between her childs wellbeing and getting by.

Amandas son Mark, 11, has special educational needs (SEN) in the form of dyslexia, along with speech and language difficulties.

The self-employed education worker said the state education system had failed her son and that one teacher refused to believe that he had dyslexia as he could spell certain words.

She added that due to Labours policy announcement, which could add thousands a year to her fees, she no longer plans to vote for the party in the general election.

Amanda said: Mark didnt want to go to school before. Hed come home from school in tears.

Fortunately, Amanda found a small, independent school in Edinburgh with a focus on helping children with special educational needs, which Mark has attended for five years.

Mark loves going to school now, Amanda said. He gets to use a laptop, so he can express himself far better  hes much happier and more confident.

Marks current school currently charges annual fees of around 14,000, meaning Labours tax raid could see her fork out up to 2,800 more each year. Amanda estimates that she will earn around 36,000 this year which means she could be forced to pull her son out of the school he loves.

Im already struggling. I am by no means rich, she said. I have very little disposable income. I am a master of budgeting  most things I buy are second hand, I do not run a car or go on holidays abroad, and despite the calls in the media for private school parents to cancel Netflix, I do not even have a TV, never mind a TV subscription.

If Amanda is unable to make the increased payments, she wont put her son back into a state school.

Id rather homeschool him, Amanda said. Going back to a state school would seriously impact his self-esteem and limit his academic potential.

Amanda has been frustrated by the stereotyping of parents of children in private schools as wealthy.

This policy seems to view all independent school parents as toffs, able to simply sell an antique painting to cover school costs. It reflects a poor understanding of the realities of peoples life, and disdain for the impact on children with SEN, she said.

I do not send my son to an independent school to obtain some sort of elitist privilege. I send him there in order that he will not be disadvantaged by a system not designed to support children with specialist needs.

Im already taking some of the burden off the state by paying for my sons own education. Why should I have to pay even more tax?

To the relief of some parents, Labour has said that children with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) will be exempt from VAT on private schools. An EHCP is a legal document that sets out an individuals special educational needs, along with what they would like to achieve.

However, EHCPs are exclusive to England; while Wales has a direct equivalent called an Individual Development Plan (IDP), Scotland does not. This means that as it stands, children in Scotland with Special Educational Needs attending private schools have no path to exemption from the tax set to be levied on their education.

Amanda reached out to her local MP, Ian Murray, a Labour politician who will not be standing at the next election. He told her that he couldnt offer her any help at this time, other than suggesting that he would try to press the Labour party to develop a Scottish alternative to EHCPs. But with Amanda staring down the barrel of cost increases that could come within months, she cannot afford to wait for a solution that may not arrive.

Even if Amanda and her son lived in England, current waiting lists to receive an EHCP are five months long on average. Around 7,600 pupils at independent schools in England currently have an EHCP, while more than 100,000 do not, according to figures from the Independent Schools Council (ISC), which represents private schools.

Julie Robinson, chief executive of the ISC, raised concerns over how a tax on education would affect pupils with special educational needs.

Mr Robinson said: We are particularly worried about how a tax on education might impact specialist provision in different regions and local areas. A full impact assessment needs to be undertaken to understand the unintended consequences that might play out in different areas, including Scotland.

Lorraine Davidson, chief executive of the Scottish Independent Schools Council, added: There is no clarity about how the VAT policy would affect children in Scotland with additional support needs.

Around 6,000 children in Scotland are expected to have their education disrupted by being forced out of their schools, and those with additional support needs will be impacted the most by disruption to their education. EHCPs dont exist in Scotland and ASN [additional support needs] is one of several issues in which the Scottish context doesnt appear to have been considered. 

Ms Davidson said income levels in Scotland are lower, therefore VAT will likely disproportionately impact pupils in Scotland.

She said: There are no tax breaks for independent schools in Scotland, which already pay business rates; through our partnership work, four times as many people who attend our schools benefit from the sharing of learning and facilities.

The Labour Party was approached for comment.

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Antigua and Barbuda has joined the final communique of the inaugural Peace Summit held over the weekend in Switzerland.

Source: Ihor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of the Ukrainian President's Office, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zhovkva noted that although the country was not present at the Peace Summit, it is now involved in the process of achieving a just peace along with other attendees.

"Small island states also feel the impact of Russian aggression, particularly regarding food and environmental security. Their participation in implementing our formula is no less important than the contribution of Europe or America," Zhovkva said.

The communique adopted at the summit is open for signature by new states and organisations.

At the same time, Iraq and Jordan, as well as Rwanda, have recently retracted their signatures from the final declaration of the Global Peace Summit.

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Minister-President of Rhineland-PalatinateMalu Dreyer attends the presentation of the 24th KEF report. Monika Skolimowska/dpa

The premier of the western German state of Rhineland-Palatinate, Malu Dreyer, announced her resignation on Wednesday.

Dreyer, a Social Democrat (SPD) who has led the state since 2013, said she would leave the post in July.

Sources told dpa that she would be replaced by Alexander Schweitzer, another Social Democrat. He currently serves as the state's minister for labour and social affairs.

That would give the 50-year-old Schweitzer the opportunity to head into the next state parliamentary election - scheduled for 2026 - as an incumbent.

There had been speculation for some time that Dreyer, 63, might make such a move to resign from the post.

Sources told dpa that two other Social Democrats - Interior Minister Michael Ebling and state parliamentary group leader Sabine Batzing-Lichtenthaler - had also been considered as possible successors to Dreyer.
Rep Ajay Pittman at the grand opening of the Garden Oaks Community Center. The Alpha Community Foundation of Oklahoma purchased the former Garden Oaks Elementary School several years ago and have transformed it into a community center. Friday, April 12, 2024.

State Rep. Ajay Pittman, who was first elected to the seat in 2018, has defeated economic development professional Brittane Grant in the winner-take-all Democratic primary in the northeastern Oklahoma City House District 99.

Pittman will be sworn into the seat this fall.

House District 99 includes neighborhoods around OU Medical Center and extends north along the west side of the Broadway Extension, also encompassing a sizable chunk of north Oklahoma City.

Since her first election in 2018, Pittman has served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives representing her district.

Most recently, she served as the vice chair of the House Tourism Committee. As one of only 20 Democrats in the 101-member House, Pittman was the only member of her party appointed to serve in committee leadership this year.

She also serves on the Joint State Tribal Relations Committee and co-chairs the Native American Caucus in the House.

In 2024, Pittman was the lead author on legislation that would have created the Handle With Care program, which would have encouraged partnership between local law enforcement, community mental health services and schools regarding children's' exposure to traumatic incidents.

Despite passing both chambers with overwhelming bipartisan support, Gov. Kevin Stitt triggered a pocket veto by not signing the bill.

Legal troubles

More recently, Pittman was hit with thousands of dollars in fines and reimbursements for misusing campaign funds.

As part of a settlement agreement with the Oklahoma Ethics Commission, Pittman agreed to repay her campaign $18,000 and pay a fine worth more than $17,000 for state campaign finance violations. Pittman admitted to spending nearly $18,000 for her personal use instead of campaign purposes, according to the settlement agreement.

She also admitted to inaccurately reporting about $30,000 in contributions in 2020 and $20,000 worth of contributions in 2022. In a statement to media, Pittman blamed it on a clerical error in campaign filings.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Election results: Rep. Ajay Pittman wins OK House District 99 seat
State Sen. Michael Brooks-Jimenez is pictured May 13 at the Oklahoma Capitol in Oklahoma City. The senator is seeking to expand Latino representation throughout Oklahoma.

Michael Brooks-Jimenez was born and raised on the south side of Oklahoma City. Now he's that area's Democratic state senator and pushing hard to increase Latino representation throughout the city and the state.

"My great-grandfather came to Oklahoma City to work on the railroad, and once he was settled, he sent for my great-grandmother to come. She actually came in a covered wagon with her three kids at the time. This was probably in the teens, soon after Oklahoma became a state. So, my mom's side of the family was probably one of the first Mexican families to come to Oklahoma," Brooks-Jimenez said in a recent interview.

The family settled in an area near the Canadian River then known as Walnut Grove, or often "La Rana," the Spanish word for "frog," to residents because of the nightly soft croaking of small river frogs up and down the river. Much of that area is gone, now, lost to highway routing, commercial development and riverbed changes.

But Little Flower Catholic Church remains an enduring symbol of Latino heritage at SW 10 and Walker Avenue, still carrying on its vibrant ministry to Hispanics and others after more than 100 years. And Little Flower Church was where Brooks-Jimenez's grandmother and mother both found their calling.

State Sen. Michael Brooks-Jimenez speaks May 20, 2023, at the inauguration of Oklahoma's Mexican Consulate in Oklahoma City. "My mom's side of the family was probably one of the first Mexican families to come to Oklahoma," the senator said in a recent interview.

Q: Your roots are deep in the city's Latino culture.

A: Some of my earliest memories are from attending Little Flower Church, which is historically and predominantly Latino. My mom always instilled a great pride in me and my sisters of our Latino heritage. When President Reagan started the amnesty program, my grandma and my mom started an amnesty school at Little Flower, and since I was in high school I was often called upon to "volunteer." My mom, Patricia Jimenez-Brooks, was always an inspiration to me, and my grandmother, Marguerite Jimenez.

Q: You went to law school and then went to work helping community members with legal issues.

A: I put an ad in the Spanish newspaper that I spoke Spanish, when that wasn't completely true. And so clients started coming. I had my very own kind of Spanish immersion class every afternoon with clients.

More: Multiple Oklahoma City Public Schools board members are Latino. Why that's important

Q: Were your parents reluctant to use Spanish in the home?

A: No. My mom was the first in our family to go to college. She actually taught English as a second language in conversational Spanish. Unfortunately, it was a lack of cooperation from me and my sisters when she tried to teach us when we were young.

Q: Being bilingual is such an asset today.

A: Agreed. I don't think I would have been able to start my practice had it not been for the opportunity to find a niche by being a bilingual attorney.

State Sen. Michael Brooks-Jimenez stands for the Pledge of Allegiance on May 13 in the Senate chamber at the Oklahoma Capitol.

Q: When did your attention turn to politics?

A: My mom was very politically active, and so my earliest political memory was putting out door hangers for Keith Leftwich when he ran for the House of Representatives (Leftwich died in 2003 at the age of 49). He was an iconic kind of state rep and then senator for the south side of Oklahoma City. I was always impressed with his dedication to his constituents. That kind of planted the seed.

Q: You were unsuccessful to begin with.

A: I ran for the first time in 2014 against Ralph Shortey. And when you run against an incumbent, you know, sometimes the cards are kind of stacked against you. So I basically shut the door. But then in 2017, when Senator Shortey got into trouble ... the door ended up reopening up for me. My phone rang off the hook.

More: This Douglass tennis star has revitalized the sport in his community

Q: You've since become a leader in the state Senate (vice chair of the Democratic Caucus). Did you have an opportunity to engage the legislative leaders and the governor with respect to the border security legislation recently approved and signed into law?

A: Yes. I definitely reached out to the governor to express my concerns. And the Senate is a collegial place thanks to the leadership of (Senate Pro Tem) Greg Treat. People are respectful of each other. Unfortunately, we are in an election year, and we have people who are ... trying to capitalize on a highly politically charged issue right now. It was pushed through without going through the normal processes like a committee meeting or anything like that. And I think that is evidence that this policy isn't well thought out.

A crowd raises their hands in response to Sen. Michael Brooks-Jimenez as he speaks May 15 during a demonstration in support of the immigrant community before Hispanic Cultural Day at the Capitol in Oklahoma City.

Q: Do you detect real concern in the Latino community about the implications of this new law?

A: Absolutely. That's the heartbreaking part of all this  passing what most likely is an unconstitutional bill  the alarm that it causes in our community and the lack of certainty. I'm receiving calls from parents asking whether it's safe to send their kids to school, people who have been here long-term asking whether they should sell their house and move somewhere else. Some of the law enforcement jurisdictions have tried to assure the community that this won't be a priority for enforcement. But that doesn't change the fact that the law is on the books. If it's not intended to be enforced, why did we pass it? It breaks my heart that some victim of domestic abuse, who suffers abuse on a daily basis and believes perhaps her life is in danger has to make the very difficult decision of whether or not to continue to endure that abuse or take a chance on calling the police and if she's undocumented she might be arrested.

Q: Will this law have a deterrent effect and make OKC a place where Latinos will not want to come?

A: I would say at this point that Oklahoma City is flourishing, in large part because of the workforce is an immigrant workforce, particularly in areas such as agriculture, hospitality and construction. I know that immigrant labor drives the economy in the state, and passing a law like this, when we're focused on trying to grow our workforce, is going to have a negative effect. I'm proud to be from Oklahoma, but it's a shame that there have been periods of transition whether it be Native Americans, African Americans or Latinos that there have been issues with us fitting in and becoming a part of the community.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC's Latino community alarmed by state's new immigration law
A statute of Dr. Martin Luther King is unveiled Friday June 14, 2024, in Montgomery, Alabama. (Ralph Chapoco/Alabama Reflector)

The Equal Justice Initiative has unveiled a statue of Martin Luther King Jr. in Montgomery, Alabama, in honor of his legacy and work for civil rights.

The statue is the second of three that are planned at EJIs Legacy Museum meant to offer people insights into racism, racial oppression and the violence that went along with it. The nonprofit unveiled a statue of civil rights activist Rosa Parks in February. Another planned monument will honor John Lewis, a civil rights activist who later became a congressman.

There is no American that is greater that this country has produced than Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., said EJI Executive Director Bryan Stevenson at Fridays unveiling. He changed America in profound and lasting ways. He reshaped the American South. We could not sit here, in this collective body, with this diverse group of people, but for the legacy and the leadership that he, and the extraordinary people who joined him, created.

Bernice King, Martin Luther Kings daughter, attended the event along with Basil Watson, the artist who created the sculpture.

Prayer in the Wind

The statue of King, about eight feet tall, depicts King in prayer at a moment of reflection. His hands are nearly clasped together, his head slightly facing down with his back turned away from the action and chaos in the time he is immersed.

I call it Prayer in the Wind because he is twisting, turning, facing and enduring the wind of change, the wind of the history we have faced, said Watson. In the face of that, he prays for progress. I think one step forward is a big step.

King was pastor of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church (now Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church) from 1954 to 1960 and helped lead the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sparked by Parks refusal to give up a seat on a segregated bus to a white man. The statue is the first of King in Montgomery.

In developing the design for the monument, Watson said he studied Kings speeches and his different works, and a theme began to develop.

The recurring theme for me has always been hope and love, that we cant build by destroying, Watson said. We have to build by building. We have to look at the positives, and we have to have a positive outlook for where we are going and where we are coming from. I have always tried to project that message of hope.

Lewis statue next

Both the state and the city of Montgomery have taken several steps in recent years to honor the memory of the civil rights battles fought in the city. The city in 2019 dedicated a statue of Parks near the spot in Court Square in 1955 where she boarded the segregated bus. Alabama is preparing to dedicate another monument to Parks at the Alabama State Capitol.

This marks a new era in this community, and I dont think we should underestimate that, Stevenson said. When I moved to Montgomery in the 1980s, you could not find the word slave, slavery, or enslavement anywhere in a public space in this city. We have done so much to maintain racial hierarchy and white supremacy, schools named after the perpetrators of that violence, streets named after the people who believed that Black people were not equal to white People  and that was everywhere.

EJI next plans to dedicate a statue to Lewis, who helped lead the Freedom Rides and the Selma-to-Montgomery march and was physically attacked at both events. Lewis was later elected to Congress, and represented an Atlanta-area U.S. House district until his death in 2020. The organization has not set a date for its unveiling.

The organization hopes the statutes will serve as a place for people to reflect on the struggle to expand civil rights and the steps needed to do so.

We, holistically, in every generation, have a call to the freedom struggle, Bernice King said. Not coming here just to experience a museum, to learn, but how can I begin to incorporate what I learned into my life as I become a part of this freedom struggle.

This article first appeared in the Alabama Reflector, a sister site of the Nebraska Examiner in the States Newsroom network.

The post Statue of Martin Luther King Jr. is unveiled in Montgomery appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
A group of Kurdish migrants from Iran and Iraq who failed in their attempt to reach the United Kingdom by boat after being discovered by the police walk back to the town of Ambleteuse, northern France, on Sunday, May 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Bernat Armangue)

AMBLETEUSE, France (AP)  The rising tide crept above their waists, soaking the babies they hugged tight. Around a dozen Kurds refused to leave the cold waters of the English Channel in a futile attempt to delay the inevitable: French police had just foiled their latest attempt to reach the United Kingdom by boat.

The men, women and children were trapped again on the last frontier of their journey from Iraq and Iran. They hoped that a rubber dinghy would get them to better lives with housing, schooling and work. Now it disappeared on the horizon, only a few of its passengers aboard.

On the beach of the quiet northern French town of Ambleteuse, police pleaded for the migrants to leave the 10-degree-Celsius (50-degree-Fahrenheit) water, so cold it can kill within minutes. Do it for the childrens sake, they argued.

The boat is go! an increasingly irritated officer shouted in French-accented English. Its over! Its over!

The asylum-seekers finally emerged from the sea defeated, but there was no doubt that they would try to reach the U.K. again. They would not find the haven they needed in France, or elsewhere in the European Union.

Europe's increasingly strict asylum rules, growing xenophobia and hostile treatment of migrants were pushing them north. While the U.K. government has been hostile, too, many migrants have family or friends in the U.K. and a perception they will have more opportunities there.

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This story, supported by the Pulitzer Center for Crisis Reporting, is part of an Associated Press series covering threats to democracy in Europe.

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EU rules stipulate that a person must apply for asylum in the first member state they land in. This has overwhelmed countries on the edge of the 27-nation bloc such as Italy, Greece and Spain.

Some migrants don't even try for new lives in the EU anymore. They are flying to France from as far away as Vietnam to attempt the Channel crossing after failing to get permission to enter the U.K., which has stricter visa requirements.

No happy here, said Adam, an Iraqi father of six who was among those caught on the beach in a recent May morning. He refused to provide his last name due to his uncertain legal status in France. He had failed to find schooling and housing for his children in France and had grown frustrated with the asylum offices lack of answers about his case. He thought things would be better in the U.K., he said.

While the number of people entering the EU without permission is nowhere near as high as during a 2015-2016 refugee crisis, far-right parties across Europe, including in France, have exploited migration to the continent and made big electoral wins in the most recent European Parliamentary elections. Their rhetoric, and the treatment already faced by many people on the French coast and elsewhere in the bloc, clash with the stated principles of solidarity, openness and respect for human dignity that underpin the democratic EU, human rights advocates note.

In recent months, the normally quiet beaches around Dunkirk, Calais and Boulogne-Sur-Mer have become the stage of cat-and-mouse games  even violent clashes  between police and smugglers. Police have fired tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets. Smugglers have hurled stones.

While boat crossings across the Channel represent only a tiny fraction of migration to the U.K., France agreed last year to hold migrants back in exchange for hundreds of millions of euros. Its an agreement akin to deals made between the European Union and North African nations in recent years. And while many people have been stopped by police, they are not offered alternative solutions and are bound to try crossing again.

More than 12,000 people have reached England in small boats in the first five months of the year, 18% more than during the same period last year, according to data published by the U.K.'s Home Office. The Home Office said 882 people arrived in the U.K. in 15 boats on Tuesday, the highest daily total of the year.

The heightened border surveillance is increasing risks and ultimately leading to more deaths, closer to shore, said Salome Bahri, a coordinator with the nongovernmental organization Utopia 56, which helps migrants stranded in France. At least 20 people have died so far this year trying to reach the U.K., according to Utopia 56. That's nearly as many as died in all of last year, according to statistics published by the International Organization of Migration.

People are rushing to avoid being caught by authorities and there are more fatalities, Bahri said. In late April, five people died, including a 7-year-old girl who was crushed inside a rubber boat after more than 110 people boarded it frantically trying to escape police.

Authorities in the north of France denied APs request for an interview but have previously defended the life-saving work of police and blamed violence on smugglers who have also attacked officers.

A spot on a flimsy rubber dinghy can cost between 1,000 to 2,000 euros (around $1,100-$2,200) making it a lucrative business for the smuggling networks led primarily by Iraqi Kurdish groups. They can earn up to $1 million a month (approximately 920,000 euros) according to a report published earlier this year by The Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime.

Sitting around a fire in an abandoned warehouse-turned-migrant camp in Calais, Mohammed Osman contemplated his limited options. The 25-year-old Sudanese man was studying medicine in Moscow when the civil war broke out in his home country a year ago. He suspended his dream of becoming a doctor. Forced to flee the fighting, his family could no longer afford to pay for his university fees and Osman was forced to leave Russia, where his visa only allowed him to study, not work. He crossed to Belarus and then to Poland where he says he was pushed back and beaten by Polish guards several times.

Eventually, he made it across the border and reached Germany where he tried to apply for asylum but was ordered to return to Poland, as per EU rules. All he wants now is to finish his medical studies in the U.K., a country whose language he, like many other Sudanese people, already speaks. The issue, as always, is how to get there. Talks of potential deportation to Rwanda have only added more stress and frustration.

So where is the legal way for me?" he asked. I am a good person. I know that I can be a good doctor.  So what is the problem?

In another makeshift camp near Dunkirk that police routinely attempt to clear, more dreams were held in suspense. Farzanee, 28, left Iran to follow her passion: becoming a professional bodybuilder. Back home she was banned from taking part in competitions and persecuted for her sport.

I was even threatened with my family, that's why I left my country, she said, refusing to provide her last name out of fear for her and her loved ones' safety.

Together with her husband, they managed to get a visa for France with a fake invitation letter. But even on EU soil they fear they could be deported back to Iran and believe only the U.K. to be safe. They have tried  and failed  to board boats to the U.K. seven or eight times but have vowed to keep trying until they make it.

Us and other Iranians like me, we have one thing in common," explained Farzanee's husband Mohammad. "When you ask them they will tell you: free life or death.

A few days after this interview, Mohammad and his wife Farzanee made it safely to the U.K.

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AP videojournalist Ahmad Seir contributed to this report.

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Follow APs coverage of migration issues at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
"I Voted" stickers spread out on a table at a polling place in Richmond. (Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury)

State Sen. Suhas Subramanyam and military officer Eugene Vindman were the victors in two closely watched Democratic primaries Tuesday in two competitive Northern Virginia districts.

But the most high-profile contest in Virginia  the intra-GOP brawl between incumbent Rep. Bob Good and state Sen. John McGuire  was too close to call as of 10 p.m Tuesday evening, three hours after the polls closed.

As Navy veteran Hung Cao won a lopsided victory in a Republican primary to take on Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine in November, several competitive House of Representatives districts saw hard-fought battles for both parties.

Here are the primary results so far:

10th District: Subramanyam prevails

Subramanyam, D-Loudoun, bested 11 other Democratic candidates to win the partys nomination in the blue-leaning but competitive 10th District based in Northern Virginia.

Subramanyam, a lawyer and former White House technology advisor in the Obama administration, has served in the Virginia General Assembly since 2020. He was endorsed for the 10th District seat by incumbent Rep. Jennifer Wexton, D-Loudoun, who is stepping down from public service after being diagnosed with a severe neurological disorder.

The runner-up in the Democratic contest was Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax. Former Virginia Education Secretary Atif Qarni finished in third place, followed by former House Speaker Eileen Filler-Corn in fourth and Sen. Jennifer Boysko, D-Fairfax, in fifth.

In the Republican contest, attorney and technology executive Mike Clancy easily defeated three other GOP contenders. Clancy will likely face an uphill battle in a district Wexton won by 6 percentage points in 2022.

7th District: Vindmans victory

Eugene Vindman, a military officer who rose to national fame by helping his twin brother blow the whistle on former President Donald Trumps conduct in office, won the Democratic nomination for the competitive 7th District seat being vacated by Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-Prince William.

Vindmans anti-Trump profile helped him crush his Democratic rivals in fundraising and helped him win around 50% of the vote in a seven-person primary. Early results showed Del. Elizabeth Guzman, D-Prince William, finishing second.

Former Green Beret turned lawyer Derrick Anderson won the GOP nomination in the district, defeating fellow military veteran Cameron Hamilton. Four other Republican candidates were in the running, but the results reflected what was essentially a two-person race between Anderson and Hamilton.

Spanberger is running for governor in 2025 instead of seeking reelection to Congress.

Based largely in Prince William, Spotsylvania and Stafford counties, the district also covers rural bits of central Virginia and has been seen as in play for Republicans as they seek to hold their majority in the House. In 2022, Spanberger defended her seat by 4.6 percentage points against Prince William supervisor Yesli Vega.

2nd District: Smasal wins, will take on Kiggans

Over in Virginia Beach, a Democratic primary set the stage for a general election that will likely draw national attention. Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee-backed Navy veteran Missy Cotter Smasal topped Democratic challenger attorney Jake Denton.

Denton trailed in fundraising, as Cotter Smasal had notched big endorsements from U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries  who stands likely to become Speaker of the House if Democrats regain that chamber  along with all six of Virginias Democratic representatives and former governors Ralph Northam and Terry McAuliffe.

Incumbent Rep. Jenn Kiggans seat is among vulnerable Republicans that Democratic national groups are targeting ahead of November for potential to flip. Kiggans is a Navy veteran and nurse who previously served in Virginias state senate. She defeated fellow Navy veteran Elaine Luria in 2022 by 3.4 percentage points. The Virginia Beach-anchored district has oscillated between Democratic and Republican control over the years and is expected to be very competitive for both women by November.

1st District: Mehta succeeds

Attorney Leslie Mehta, who formerly worked for the American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia, handily beat former New Kent County treasurer Herb Jones in a two-way Democratic primary.

Shell now take on Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Westmoreland, in a Republican-leaning district.

Mehta received a high-profile endorsement from Spanberger in the primary.

5th District: Good v. McGuire, too close to call

The results of the 5th District congressional primary contest werent solidified hours after voting ended, with Good and McGuire each pulling nearly 50% of all counted ballots Tuesday night.

Virginias largest congressional district attracted a national audience as GOP heavyweights campaigned with both men.

On election eve, once-and-possibly-future president Donald Trump had a virtual rally for McGuire, while Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga stumped for McGuire at multiple events and posted videos on social media in the weeks leading up to the election.

Meanwhile, Good had reinforcements from Florida congressman Matt Gaetz and Texas congressman Chip Roy. Good was also joined by former Trump strategist Steve Bannon (weeks before hes due in federal prison for denying a subpoena related to a congressional investigation into the U.S. Capitol insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021).

At a June 7 event in Powhatan, Bannon said prison is not gonna be that bad and compared his upcoming sentence to his Navy service. Its just serving my country in a different way.

He also praised Good for his service as an elected official and chair of the House Freedom Caucus, congress most conservative group.

While he had a high profile former Trump strategist backing him, he lacked the support of Trump himself.

Though both candidates share conservative Republican policy stances and have expressed admiration for Trump, its Goods brief endorsement of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis that has haunted him. Trumps team also sent a cease and desist letter to Goods campaign for using signs with his name that implied an endorsement he doesnt have.

The post Subramanyam, Vindman win Democratic primaries to succeed Wexton, Spanberger appeared first on Virginia Mercury.
Protesters are seen as Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun (Front) testifies during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing titled "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture" in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

WASHINGTON, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun was grilled by U.S. lawmakers in a Senate hearing on Tuesday over the air giant's growing safety and quality control crises.

"It's not enough for Boeing to shrug its shoulders and say, well, mistakes happen," Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, chair of a Senate subcommittee on investigations, said in his opening remarks.

"This is not an industry where it's okay to cut corners, to reduce inspections, to take shortcuts, and rely on broken parts that happen to be sitting around," Blumenthal said.

Among the audience are families of victims of the two crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people, involving Boeing's 737 Max. Many came holding posters of loved ones who lost their lives in those tragedies.

Blumenthal also mentioned the incident in January when a door plug blew out of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 shortly after takeoff. "The facade quite literally blew off the hollow shell that had been Boeing's promises to the world," he said.

Calhoun, who took charge in January 2020 following the two deadly crashes, defended the company's actions to try to improve manufacturing quality and restore its damaged safety reputation in recent years.

Senators also questioned the Boeing CEO over the company's treatment of whistleblowers.

Republican Senator Ron Johnson, ranking member of the subcommittee, said in the hearing that after whistleblower John Barnett raised his concerns about missing parts, "he reported that his supervisor called him 19 times in one day, and 21 times another day."

"When Barnett asked his supervisor about those calls, he was told, 'I'm going to push you until you break'," Johnson said.

Barnett, who testified in his whistleblower case against the troubled plane-maker, was found dead from a gunshot wound in his car in Charleston, South Carolina on March 9. A law enforcement investigation has concluded that the cause of death was suicide.

"Do you think Boeing has done enough today to make those kinds of corrections and what would you say to the whistleblowers who have come forward and face retaliation?" Johnson said.

"I asked myself that question every day. Have we done enough? "Calhoun said.

Republican Senator Josh Hawley criticized the Boeing CEO's compensation package of nearly 32.8 million last year, noting that it's a 45-percent increase from 2022.

"We've had multiple whistleblowers come before this committee and allege that Boeing is cutting every possible corner on quality and safety not just in the past, but now," said Hawley.

"They've alleged that you've eliminated safety inspections that there are fewer inspectors doing quality inspections out there. They alleged that when they raised quality issues and concerns, they were reassigned, they were retaliated against, they were physically threatened," Hawley continued.

In his response, Calhoun said the company has increased quality inspectors "significantly."

Calling on Boeing to change "a broken safety culture," Blumenthal said the plane-maker "needs to stop thinking about the next earnings call and start thinking about the next generation." 

Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun testifies during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing titled "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture" in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun testifies during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing titled "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture" in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun (C, Front) testifies during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing titled "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture" in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun testifies during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing titled "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture" in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun testifies during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing titled "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture" in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

Protesters are seen as Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun (C, Front) testifies during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing titled "Boeing's Broken Safety Culture" in Washington, D.C., the United States, on June 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)
Forty years ago, Congress created a program to help people who were too poor to rent safe housing find places to live. The new federal housing vouchers would pay part of the rent for an apartment or house in the private market.

Today, more than 2,500 households in Ada County depend on vouchers. But many pour far more of their modest incomes into rent than Congress originally intended.

Congress in 1969 defined affordable housing as costing no more than 25% of a low-income households rent, according to a study of rent burdens by the Pew Charitable Trusts. In 1981, Congress boosted that to 30%. Thats been the recognized standard ever since. If your household earns $20,000 per year, no more than $6,000 of that should go toward rent, so you still have money for food and other living costs. If you pay more, youre considered rent-burdened.

But the nations costliest program for helping low-income people, known as housing choice vouchers, has a little-known hole that can force tenants to pay far more than 30% of their incomes toward rent. According to the executive director of the local housing authorities serving Boise and Ada County, tenants sometimes pay twice that much or more.

Multiple federal programs continue to use the 30%-of-income standard to target low-income renters. For example, a tax credit that developers can take to help make the development of low-income apartments economically feasible requires gross rents not to exceed 30% of the income of renters, and those renters must earn no more than 60% of the local median income.

Consider someone earning $41,160 a year, which the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development says is 60% of the Boise areas 2024 median income of $69,115 for a single person. That person should pay no more than $1,029 a month in rent. A household of four earning $58,800 (60% of the $98,700 HUD says is the areas median income for a household that size) should pay no more than $1,470.

In January 2022, homeless Idahoans held a demonstration near the State Capitol to draw attention to the lack of affordable housing in Boise. Even with a housing-choice voucher, many renters are being required to pay more and more of their incomes in rent.

The truth about what tenants pay

The 30% standard has led to a common misconception that renters who use housing vouchers pay just 30% of their income for rent and the voucher covers the rest.

The truth is that voucher holders can be required to pay up to 40% of their incomes to rent during their vouchers very first year, depending on the rent. And after the first year, a landlord can raise the rent beyond the 40%-of-income cap.

Deanna Watson, executive director of the Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities, told the Idaho Statesman by phone that she once came across a housing choice voucher holder who was paying 70% of the tenants income to rent.

I hate to tell you how late into my career I was before I realized once the landlord has completed that first annual lease., they often go to a month-to-month lease, and they can raise the rent to where the tenant portion is going to be 48%, or 57%, or more, Watson said.

Watson said the idea of the voucher program, established in 1983, originally was that tenants who had their rent raised too far above 30% of their income could move to another, more affordable rental. That is the idea behind the housing choice voucher, also known as Section 8 vouchers (a reference to Section 8 of the Housing Act of 1937, passed during the Great Depression).

But that doesnt factor in when there is no other place, Watson said. Plus now I have my cost of moving, security deposits and hassle.

Federal government appropriates funding, is it enough?

Every year, HUD establishes the fair market rents for each region across the country, drawing upon the Census Bureaus annual American Community Survey. For the 2023 fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, HUD boosted the fair market rent in Idaho by 9% on average.

Todays fair market rents in Boise are $993 for a studio, $1,139 for a one-bedroom, $1,388 for a two-bedroom, $1,956 for a three-bedroom and $2,298 for a four bedroom. These rents represent the cost of a moderately priced home in a local housing market, HUD says.

For that $20,000-per-year single person 30%, or $500 a month, in rent for a one-bedroom, the subsidy would contribute up to $639, totaling $1,139. But rentals seeking tenants today often are costlier. Zumper, an apartment listing service, pegged the average price of Boise one-bedrooms advertised on its site at $1,370 in May.

Each year, Congress appropriates money for HUD to give to all 3,100 public housing agencies in the country for housing vouchers and other aid. Congress approved $32 billion for tenant assistance for fiscal 2024, which began Oct. 1.

HUD allows the housing authorities to set payment amounts for vouchers based on rent levels between 90% and 110% of the official fair-market rents. Watson said the Boise / Ada County Housing Authorities  there are two, Boises and Ada Countys, but they operate as one under a city-county agreement  have set its payments in recent years at the maximum 110%.

Watson said it is unfortunate that funding for housing agencies is not determined by the needs of a community.

A reasonable person would think that funding for rental assistance would be tied to poverty rates in the area, rental levels in the area, and homeless numbers in the area, she said. They dont look at any of that.

The poverty rate in Boise was 11% in 2022, according to the American Community Survey. Watson estimated that 17,000 to 18,000 local people in poverty are renters, but the local housing authorities have only 2,500 vouchers to give out at a time. She said that is consistent with the national average: Local housing authorities only have enough funding to assist around 22% of the people eligible for vouchers.

How a voucher holder ends up paying 70% of their income in rent

In the first year of a lease, a voucher holder cannot pay more than 40% of the voucher holders income in rent. Although they usually hope to just pay 30%, sometimes rents are too high for that.

Some of the time, (a renter) might find a place that works for them, but the rent is a little bit higher than the combined 30% of their income and our subsidy, Watson said. They may go from wanting to pay 30% of their income to paying 37% because it is closer to their workplace or other factors. The 40% cap allows them to make that decision.

After a one-year lease is up, however, a landlord can raise the rent beyond the combined 40% of income and a vouchers subsidy.

One renter with a voucher, Watson said, lived in a low-income apartment building that was financed part with low income housing tax credits, another federal program. After the first year there, the rent increased to a level that required the tenant to pay 70% of income to rent, she said.

After the first year, the housing authorities cant increase the amount they pay for a tenants rent above the original amount. Any rent increases would be left on the tenant, Watson said.

Watson said in a reasonable housing market, a tenant could leave after the first year if a rent increase was too much. But in Boise, there are too few landlords who accept vouchers and are willing to work with low-income tenants and the housing authorities to ensure the rent fits the available subsidy and the 30% to 40% income requirements, Watson said.

In this market, a lot of people are saying, I cant afford to stay and I cant afford to move, Watson said.

How to apply for a housing voucher

ProPublica, a national nonprofit news outlet, has published a step-by-step guide to applying for a voucher. Search for What You Need to Know About How Section 8 Really Works at ProPublica.org.

Read the Statesmans Affording Boise series

The Statesman in 2022 explored Boises housing-affordability crisis in depth across dozens of stories that are still posted online.

Need an affordable Boise apartment? The next 4 weeks may be your chance  if you qualify

Home prices are up, but people are buying anyway. Whats going on with Boise real estate?

Business and Local Government Editor David Staats contributed.
A sudden spike in cases of a rare infection often linked to flesh-eating bacteria is happening in Japan

Cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) have risen suddenly in Japan this year.

The rare and deadly bacterial infection affects blood and tissue.

STSS is treated with antibiotics and sometimes surgery. There is no vaccine for the infection.

In Japan, cases of an uncommon but deadly bacterial infection have spiked in recent months, concerning health officials, the Washington Post reported.

Since January 2024, officials from Japan's Health Ministry have reported 1,019 cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), a bacterial infection without a vaccine and treated with antibiotics. At least 77 deaths have been reported due to these STSS infections, with most fatal cases occurring in people over 50.

Officials from Japan's Health Ministry said they are unsure what has caused the sudden increase in cases. But they find the surge alarming, considering that fewer than 1,000 cases of STSS were reported in the country in 2023.

STSS causes and symptoms

STSS is caused by bacteria called group-A Streptococcus (GAS), according to the CDC.

This particular bacteria also causes mild infections like strep throat since it is commonly found in the throat and on the skin.

But if GAS gets into a person's bloodstream or tissue through open wounds or sores, their organs may start to fail within 24 to 48 hours, as per the CDC website. GAS has also been linked to necrotizing fasciitis, an infection that causes a "flesh-eating" disease.

According to the CDC, three in 10 people who develop STSS are likely to die.

Flu-like symptoms such as chills, fever, and muscle aches are often the first signs someone has STSS. More severe symptoms that signal organ failure due to STSS include:

Low blood pressure signs include dizziness, blurred vision, weakness, nausea, and headaches.

An abnormally rapid heart rate

Abnormally rapid breathing

If someone has these symptoms, they should go to the hospital right away, according to the CDC.

Treatment typically involves replacing bodily fluids and antibiotics. According to the CDC, surgery may be needed to remove tissue infected by the GAS bacteria in some cases.

Infections like STSS are on the rise globally

Steer told the Washington Post that "we've had streptococcal toxic shock syndrome and invasive strep A infection in the US for decades and decades and decades, hundreds of years."

However, it's an uncommon infection, and healthcare providers should take the sudden uptick in STSS cases in Japan as a cue to increase their awareness of potential symptoms among their patients, said Andrew Steer, director of infection, immunity, and global health at Murdoch Children's Research Institute in Melbourne, Australia.

Since the coronavirus pandemic, health officials worldwide have expressed concern about increasing bacterial and viral infection rates.

In 2022, UK health officials reported 19 child deaths due to group-A streptococcal infections, the same bacteria that causes STSS.

Vaccines could help prevent the spread of these rare but potentially deadly bacterial infections, health experts said. However, creating one has proven to be a decadeslong process that is still in progress due to financial and scientific hurdles.

Read the original article on Business Insider
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Sun Metro is celebrating National Dump the Pump Day by providing free rides all day Thursday, June 20.

According to the news release by the City of El Paso, Dump the Pump Day is to encourage people to save money by riding public transportation.

We invite everyone who has never tried Sun Metro to take advantage of the free rides and give public transportation a try. Our system can take residents where they need to go. Annually, we provide more than 5.5 million rides all while continuously working to make the system more efficient to provide a better customer experience, said Sun Metro Director Anthony DeKeyzer.

According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), people can possibly save $13,000 a year by using public transportation instead of driving.

The APTA also says individuals are not only saving money by riding public transportation but also contributing to a cleaner environment and reducing traffic congestion.

Dump the Pump Day started in 2006 when gas prices were at record high and emphasized people to use public transportation as a great travel option that also saves money, according to the City.

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 source recently let me know that the responses to an article I had written were a bit mean-spirited. Thats why I dont read the comments, I found myself thinking. I moved quickly past this news and on to the rest of my day.

My reaction suddenly struck me as very adult. I didnt begin my life online never reading the comments, but its a strategy Ive learned to keep my head above water. I arrived at this realization via experience, much the same way that Ive learned I should stop after two cups of coffee or Ill feel jittery.

Young people tend to lack this kind of wisdom. They also deserve opportunities to gain it. And therein lies the rub for parents, educators and others who care about teens. We want to protect them from the harm that social media can do while also teaching them how to use it in a way that minimizes such damage. To make a teen a safe driver, you first have to let them sit behind the wheel.

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who issued a national advisory on youth mental health in 2021, is now calling for warning labels on social media for teenage users, a la the warning labels on tobacco products. In a New York Times essay published June 17, Murthy wrote, The mental health crisis among young people is an emergency  and social media has emerged as an important contributor.

In the Youth Risk Behavior Survey published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 42% of young people reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2021, up from 28% in 2011. The number of youth who considered or attempted suicide also rose steadily over that decade.

There is a documented correlation between the increased use of social media and the rise of mental health issues in youth, although it isnt always clear which is the cause and which is the effect. In his recent essay, Murthy cites research that shows kids who use social media for more than three hours a day are more likely to show signs of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Again, its possible that heavy social media use contributes to these problems, but its also possible that kids who have anxiety or depression tend to spend more time on social media.

Murthy also cites an August 2022 survey conducted by the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Childrens Hospital of 1,480 youths ages 13 to 17. In the survey, 46% said that using social media made them feel worse (either a little or a lot) about their bodies.

These are alarming statistics, ones that parents should be aware of. At the same time, the Digital Wellness Lab survey found that teens also see upsides to the socializing that they do online. Seventy-nine percent reported that using social media made them feel more socially connected, and 69% said it made them feel more emotionally supported by peers.

HuffPost spoke with several experts on the topic of teens and technology about their thoughts on Murthys proposed warning labels.

Social media is not comparable to cigarettes.

Cigarettes are a product that is toxic when used as directed, Dr. Michael Rich, a pediatrician who is the director of the Digital Wellness Lab, told HuffPost. With social media, on the other hand, its how you use it.

One danger of vilifying social media is that it may then become a forbidden fruit and tempt teens even more. Another risk is that it would throw out the good along with the bad.

In recent years, kids (and adults) from historically marginalized communities, such as those who have disabilities or who identify as LGBTQI+, Rich said, have been connected, and many of them use [social media] quite respectfully and quite gratefully.

Devorah Heitner, author of Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World, told HuffPost: Social media is more like other risky things we do that have benefits. She mentioned swimming, riding a bike and driving a car  as opposed to the cigarette comparison.

Social media, she added, is neutral for many kids and positive for some, and then there are kids for whom there is significant harm, that maybe they access something really dangerous, or they experience a very, very negative interaction or bullying.

All parents are eager to prevent such things from happening to their kids, but, particularly when it comes to social media, are often not sure how. One challenge is figuring out what the equivalents of car seats, bicycle helmets and lifeguards are in this digital landscape, which, for us, can be unchartered territory.

An official signal of potential danger, such as a surgeon generals warning, wont solve the problem on its own, but all of the experts we spoke to felt that it could be a significant step in the right direction.

The impetus behind a warning is to really stop and think, Jill Murphy, content officer at Common Sense Media, told HuffPost. Instead of just clicking without thinking, it causes that pause.

To signal a warning from on high and broadcast it widely implicates everyone whom the issue touches. It also puts a stake in the ground to acknowledge that we recognize, as a society, that social media is having a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of kids and teens, we cant pretend that it isnt, and that its all of our responsibility to acknowledge that, instead of just the parents, Murphy said.

Companies have responsibilities, too.

If we see an official warning as an acknowledgement of risk, we can use it to pressure social media companies to minimize that risk for their youngest customers.

Murphy thinks the situation calls for a multi-pronged approach that involves government, parents and product developers.

Common Sense supports the Kids Online Safety Act, which would require companies to protect kids data and prevent them from seeing harmful content. Polls show that almost 90% of Americans support this legislation  with near-equal support from voters who favor Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Joe Biden in the presidential campaign.

There are elements within these platforms that could be adjusted to make the overall experience better and more beneficial, but we need that large-scale impact that comes from a warning label or legislation to really force companies to protect this next generation, Murphy said.

Rich argued that such protections will also be a good business move for companies: I think that its important to help them understand that the kind of meteoric rise in their business is over, and now theyre in a place where they need to stabilize and maintain and sustain their businesses, and the way theyre going to do that is by making their businesses focus not just on profits but on the wellness of their users.

This focus needs to include meaningful responses when a user reports abusive or dangerous online behavior, Heitner said. If my kid is getting sexually harassed or bullied online, if your kid is being impersonated, if theres a fake account with your kids picture and name, and you contact these big companies like TikTok, Snapchat, Meta, Discord... [and] you get a bot, or you get referred to a call center, or you just dont hear back at all  that is unacceptable, she said.

Heitner wants to see companies invest much more heavily in being responsive to complaints and concerns that kids or adults reach out to them with, hunting down solutions to these issues with the same tenacity they devote to their own growth.

Online safety should be an ongoing conversation  in the public arena and in the home.

One upside I can really see of the warning label is if it leads to caregiver-child or parent-child conversation, Heitner said, noting that, as with driving, parents should not just hand over the keys and forget it.

Parents of especially younger teenagers should know if their kids have social accounts. They should be leaning in to teaching their kids about being safe in terms of what information they share and who they connect with and who they follow in terms of content. Those are conversations that should be happening at school and in homes, she added.

An important part of this conversation is balance. Even if the content a teen is accessing on social media is positive, if theyre spending so much time online that its interrupting their sleep or in-person socializing, the overall effect on their life can be negative.

To encourage kids to strike a balance, Heitner is in favor of measures such as a proposed law in Colorado that would require apps to display a pop-up warning to users younger than 18 after they spend an hour on the app in a 24-hour period or if they are active on it from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Helping guide teens in social media use is an ongoing conversation that parents will need to keep revisiting as their kids and the technology grow and change.

Theres just no easy button, Murphy said. There isnt a 10,000-steps goal in all of this. Parents are always asking us, Whats the one thing I should do? How much time is OK? Its not like that ... It is a real constant maintenance.

Though the ground is ever-shifting and theres never just one solution, Murphy did note that in all of her conversations with teens and young people, none had ever expressed a wish that they had spent more time on social media.

Speaking of the way parents are currently wrestling with the issue, she said, Its not for nothing.

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for mental health support. Additionally, you can find local mental health and crisis resources at dontcallthepolice.com. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

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As suspected Milwaukee arsons are being investigated, one homeowner might move out

A home in the 2600 block of North 49th Street was among four houses damaged in a series of central city fires set on Tuesday.

As authorities continue to investigate a series of apparent arson fires in two Milwaukee central city neighborhoods, one homeowner whose house was damaged is looking to move.

Mary Spadafora owns one of the four houses damaged in the 16 fires reported during a three-hour span Tuesday morning.

The fires occurred in two concentrated areas: near North 49th Street and West Lisbon Avenue and North Ninth and West Center streets, according to the Milwaukee Fire Department.

Spadafora told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel this marks the second time her house, in the 2600 block of North 49th Street, has been set on fire since April 2023.

I never believed that this would happen again, she said.

Spadafora recently finished repairing relatively minor damage from the 2023 fire, which she said appeared to be deliberately set.

This latest fire caused more extensive damage, including part of the roof that collapsed.

A neighbor told her a group of people threw fireworks into her compost and garbage bins, and in the alley beside her house.

Spadafora wasn't home at the time of the fire.

If its salvageable, Ill try and fix it, but Im probably going to sell it," said Spadafora, who bought the house in 2011. "I probably dont feel comfortable living here anymore.

Also, household items removed from the house to the yard by firefighters are missing, she said.

The house was hit in the morning and then other people came and hit it at night," she said.

No civilian injuries were reported, although one firefighter did suffer minor injuries. The fires are under investigation by Milwaukee Fire Department, Milwaukee Police Department and the Wisconsin State Fire Marshall.

Authorities are looking for security footage and witnesses who could help identify the people or person responsible for starting the fires.

Those with information are asked to contact the Wisconsin Arson Hotline at 1-800-362-3005 or contact the Milwaukee Police Department at 414-933-4444. A $5,000 reward is in place for credible tips.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee fires investigated as suspected arsons; one owner might move
The Saab 105, which was for decades the jet on which Swedish Air Force pilots learned their trade, has been formally decommissioned. While less well known outside of Sweden  and Austria, its only export customer  the T-tailed, high-wing twinjet was a remarkable design, with some unique features that made it notably adaptable. On June 18, the Swedish Air Force (Flygvapnet) officially retired the Saab 105, known in domestic military service as the Skolflygplan 60, or SK 60. The decommissioning ceremony took place at the types home base of Malmen, near Linkoping, in southern Sweden. The types farewell appearance included an aerial routine by display pilot Nils Princess Schylstrom. Did you know that Saab 105/SK60 is the longest operational Saab aircraft ever built? During 2024 it's time for the aircraft to retire after nearly 60 years of service in the Swedish Air Force. pic.twitter.com/itRtqTqRTl Saab (@Saab) June 18, 2024 It has served us so well  we have had the SK 60 in the Swedish inventory since before I was born. It has served so well, but it is now old, Deputy Commander of the Swedish Air Force Brig. Gen. Tommy Petersson told reporters last month. The final military operator of the jet was the Flygskolan  the Swedish Air Force flight school, which graduated its last group of students earlier this month. Latterly, around 25 SK 60s were still active with the school. A pair of SAAB 105s over the Swedish coast. Swedish Ministry of Defense View from the cockpit of an SK 60 during a traditional Christmas tree formation flight of the kind the flight school conducted over Sweden each December. Swedish Ministry of Defense Overall, however, the Swedish Air Force operated 150 SK 60s in various configurations and in some interesting roles. Developed by Saab as a private venture starting in 1958, the Saab 105 was unusually intended for both military and civil applications from the start. The first of two prototypes took to the air on June 29, 1963, and the aircraft was easily recognizable by its combination of shoulder wing with prominent anhedral, T-tail, and side-by-side twin seating. A pair of small turbofans, the French-made Turbomeca Aubisque, each developing just 1,642 pounds of thrust were installed in nacelles on each side of the fuselage. Production versions were fitted with RM9 engines, Swedish-made versions of the Aubisque. The commander of Ostgota Wing (F 3) sits in the cockpit of an SK 60 from the Swedish Air Force flight school at Malmen in 1973. Axel Carleson/Wikimedia Commons Axel Carleson For the military training role, the cockpit could be fitted with ejection seats, but these could be removed for liaison and other roles and replaced by airliner-type fixed seats for four people. As an alternative, four more basic seats could be fitted, providing space for the pilot and passengers to wear parachutes. Sweden placed orders for the Saab 105 in 1964, to replace the aging de Havilland Vampire. Starting in 1967, the Swedish Air Force operated the SK 60A outfitted for training and liaison, the SK 60B dedicated to light attack missions, and the SK 60C which was a dual-role attack/reconnaissance platform. A Swedish Air Force SK 60A lands at Visby Airport. Bene Riobo/Wikimedia Commons Bene Riobo In the attack role, the diminutive jet could carry a maximum load of more than 4,400 pounds, including gun pods, rockets, napalm tanks, and even air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. The SK 60Bs also received a Ferranti Integrated Strike and Interception System (ISIS) weapons sight. The SK 60C was characterized by its extended nose housing a Fairchild KB-18 camera, while it could also fly close air support missions, armed with unguided rockets and gun pods. An SK 60C with its distinctive camera nose. Rob Schleiffert/Wikimedia Commons For many observers, the SK 60 was best known through its use by the Swedish Air Forces Team 60 aerobatic display team, which began displaying six of the jets in the mid-1970s, appearing at airshows and events throughout Sweden and around Europe. The Swedish Air Force Team 60. Hulton-Deutsch Collection/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images Hulton Deutsch Saab made considerable efforts to further develop the basic design, including proposed versions with improved performance, increased armament and fuel capacity, and more advanced avionics. A planned bizjet version of the Saab 105 also didnt progress beyond design studies. The closest the jet got to this role, perhaps, was the Swedish Air Forces SK 60D  a handful of aircraft that were permanently converted as four-seat staff transports. These also received civilian-style avionics and instruments. The final major version for the Swedish Air Force was the SK 60E navigation trainer, used to train commercial pilots who also served as military reserve officers. A former Swedish Air Force SK 60E, now operated by the Swedish Air Force Historic Flight. Herranderssvensson/Wikimedia Commons The only export customer was the Austrian Air Force, which took 40 of the Saab 105OE version, the last examples being retired in December 2020. These were based on the SK 60B but had more powerful General Electric J85 engines  the same kind found in the T-38 Talon and F-5 Freedom Fighter  and a strengthened wing for heavier combat loads. One unusual role for which the Austrian jets could be configured was atmospheric sampling, being outfitted with up to four pods that could take aerial samples to study radioactivity or other pollutants. A specially marked Austrian Air Force Saab 105OE. Bernardo Fernandez copado/Wikimedia Commons Bernardo Fernandez Copado Ultimately, it was in the training role that the Saab twinjet found its niche. The Flygskolan has a unique approach to training. New pilots dont have to sign mandatory contracts, can select their future aircraft type before they begin learning to fly, and learn in an environment with almost no hierarchy. Using the SK 60, this ethos was remarkably successful, with around 95 percent of pilots successfully graduating from the two-year course. In particular, the SK 60s side-by-side configuration was found to have real advantages in the early stages of training, making the interaction between student and instructor much easier. Inside the cockpit of a former Austrian Air Force Saab 105OE. BFK Vocklabruck/Wikimedia Commons Students typically went solo on the SK 60 after around 30 hours. The importance of the jet to the Swedish Air Force saw successive efforts to retain it in service longer and ensure it remained relevant, keeping pace with technological change. A major upgrade came in the form of new Williams Rolls FJ44 turbofans, each developing 1,900 pounds of thrust and equipped with digital engine controls. The first of 106 Williams-powered SK 60s took to the air in August 1995. Starting in 2009, Saab upgraded surviving SK 60A/B aircraft to provide greater commonality with the Gripen fighter, adding new GPS and improved communication systems. A video produced in 2015, when Saab and the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration signed a new support and maintenance contract for the SK 60: Just how valuable the SK 60 was to the Swedish Air Force was confirmed in September 2020, when the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration abandoned its search for a successor platform, after failing to receive any tender that met all of its requirements. A Swedish Air Force SK 60 won the award for best overall flying display at the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) airshow at RAF Fairford, England, in 2023. Removing the SK 60 from the inventory has led to changes in how the Swedish Air Force trains its pilots. The jet had been used for basic flying training as well as for learning the first elements of tactical training. Now, the turboprop Grob G120TP is responsible for basic flying training, while fighter pilots will learn tactical aspects during a secondment to the Italian Air Forces International Flight Training School (IFTS) at Decimomannu in Italy. Meanwhile, transport pilots will go to the U.S. Navy, and helicopter pilots to Germany, for further training. The first three of 10 G120TP aircraft  local designation SK 40  were officially handed over to the Swedish Air Force at Malmen in April 2023. The first three SK 40 trainers were officially accepted by the Swedish Air Force at Malmen on April 3, 2023. Jonas Holmberg/Forsvarsmakten While the Grob falls far short of the SK 60 in the charisma stakes, the legacy of the Saab trainer is set to continue for some time to come in the hands of the Swedish Air Force Historic Flight. The organizations impressive fleet already included an SK 60, but plans were announced last year to transfer another three examples from the Flygskolan. These jets will help preserve the legacy of the little trainer and the outsized contribution it made to the Swedish Air Force for almost 60 years. To mark 60 years since the types first flight, one of the last SK 60s was painted in this flamboyant scheme that recalls the colors of aircraft flown by the Swedish Air Force flight school during the 1930s. Saab Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com

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(PUEBLO, Colo.)  The Pueblo County Coroner has identified the person who was pulled from Lake Pueblo on Saturday, June 15, following a swimming accident.

The coroner announced on Tuesday, June 18 that the swimmer was identified as 40-year-old Juan Jimenez, and declared the death accidental.

Body recovered after swimmer went missing in Lake Pueblo

Jimenez went missing on June 15 near the Sailboard Beach area, according to witnesses. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) rangers and Pueblo County Sheriffs Office divers searched for several hours, eventually locating Jimenez body approximately 75 feet from the shore around 11 p.m.

According to CPWs unofficial estimate, this is the 17th water-related death in Colorado 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 FOX21 News Colorado.
CARACAS, June 18 (Xinhua) -- The Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America - Peoples' Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP) on Tuesday condemned the United States' seizure of the Venezuelan company Citgo in U.S. territory.

The member countries "categorically condemn the actions taken by the U.S. administration aimed at illegally stripping the Venezuelan company Citgo Petroleum Corporation," said the bloc in a statement on its website.

The bloc described the seizure as a "blatant attack" and said that it "deepens the constant threat to Venezuela's sovereignty and right to development."

The regional body called on the international community to condemn the actions of the United States, arguing that it "seeks to seize assets that do not belong to it, to impose its illegitimate and supremacist agenda of intervention in the internal affairs of other states."

It also denounced the United States' denial of Venezuela's right to defense in courts and reaffirmed its support "for Venezuelan authorities in defense of this important energy company."

The United States has previously illegally seized the Venezuelan state-owned oil refinery, the main asset of the South American nation abroad, through a forced sale.

Founded in 2004, the ALBA-TCP bloc currently groups 10 countries with the aim of reducing Latin America's reliance on Western aid by promoting intra-regional alliances and cooperation in key sectors such as energy and trade. 
Bullets are seen in a magazine holder during a gun rights and free speech protest near the state Capitol in Raleigh, N.C., in 2020. States have considered a variety of gun policies this year, with especially heated debate in swing states. (Gerry Broome/The Associated Press)

States continued to diverge on gun policy this year, with especially intense debate in the swing states that will decide Novembers election.

In Michigan, legislators are considering at least half a dozen gun bills that would create storage requirements and establish gun-free zones. In Pennsylvania, lawmakers are still debating measures that would ban sales of untraceable guns and gun parts, prohibit bump stocks and make some procedural changes related to gun purchases. Meanwhile, Republican legislators in Arizona, Georgia and North Carolina have sought to make it easier for people to procure guns and to carry them in more places.

This past week offered reminders of the continuing salience of guns in American life.

Read more Stateline coverage of the 2024 election.

Last Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a 2018 rule  issued by the Trump administration  that banned bump stocks, which are attachments that transform semiautomatic rifles into weapons that can shoot hundreds of rounds per minute. The administration issued the rule after a gunman used semiautomatic rifles equipped with a bump stock device to kill 60 people and injure more than 500 others at a Las Vegas music festival.

And on Saturday, a gunman opened fire at a splash park in Rochester Hills, Michigan, injuring nine people  including two children. The violence came three years after a student opened fire at Oxford High School in the same county, killing four people and injuring seven.

Mass shootings that occur close to election seasons typically have a significant effect on the countrys perception of guns, according to experts.

If there are any particularly horrendous shootings in the months to come, that has a way of pushing the issue back to the forefront of the agenda, Robert Spitzer, a gun policy expert who has written six books and over 100 articles on gun policy, told Stateline.

Meanwhile, presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and GOP candidates nationwide have made crime and public disorder main themes of their campaigns  even though most crime measurements are trending downward.

Gun policy has been a topic of debate for decades, but has become especially prominent as the number of gun-related deaths and mass shootings has grown almost every year since 2014, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit group that tracks gun violence in the United States.

A Gallup poll from October 2023 found that the majority of U.S. adults, or 56%, support stricter gun laws, while 31% think they should remain as they are and 12% prefer less strict laws. Meanwhile, a Pew Research Center survey from June 2023 found that 60% of U.S. adults say gun violence is a major problem in this country.

Other states  including Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, Oregon, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia  also considered gun-related legislation this year.

Electoral impact

Voters who support gun rights are often highly mobilized and consistently turn out at the polls because of their strong personal connections to firearms, according to politics and gun policy experts.

In contrast, voters who support gun safety measures are harder to mobilize because they are more likely to prioritize other issues, such as the economy or foreign policy.

A small but highly motivated minority can often win the day politically over a large but fairly apathetic majority, said Spitzer, an emeritus professor of political science at the State University of New York at Cortland and an adjunct at the William & Mary Law School. Thats kind of the short version of how you explain whats been going on in gun politics in America.

Extensive academic research and numerous studies can support either side of the gun policy debate. Politicians will use whatever data or studies that best support their platforms, according to political communications experts.

For example, left-leaning Democratic politicians often cite studies suggesting a correlation between stricter gun policies and lower crime rates, according to Jacob Neiheisel, a political science professor at the University at Buffalo.

But gun rights think tanks and organizations also produce research supporting their position, including the claim that crime rates drop when more people carry guns, Neiheisel added.

A small but highly motivated minority can often win the day politically over a large but fairly apathetic majority. Thats kind of the short version of how you explain whats been going on in gun politics in America.

 Robert Spitzer, gun policy expert

Experts stress that, regardless of party or position on gun policy, its important for people to understand how the data was collected and to be aware of potential biases.

For example, politicians often rely on annual national crime and victimization data produced by the FBI, but these datasets measure crime differently  a fact that is not always well understood by politicians or voters.

This allows some politicians to lean on the sources that best support their arguments on gun policy, according to Alex Piquero, a criminology professor at the University of Miami and former director of the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics.

Its not that the data are wrong. Its not that the data lie. Its just that there are different data measuring different things, Piquero said. But if the average person doesnt know that or doesnt take the time to understand  then they are an ill-educated voting populace.

Campuses and polling places

In Michigan, legislators are considering at least half a dozen gun bills, including measures that would establish firearm storage requirements and prohibit guns in certain state-owned buildings and within 100 feet of polling places, drop boxes, early voting sites and absentee ballot counting boards.

Being that we dont want firearms at polls or counting boards is very reasonable and very much needed in the spirit of promoting democracy  allowing people to cast their votes without fear of intimidation, said Democratic state Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou, one of the sponsors of the elections-related gun bills, in an interview with Stateline.

Tsernoglou said she expects both bills to pass this session. While they have already cleared the House and Senate, the bills await another vote in the House before advancing further. The legislature adjourns in December.

The Wisconsin state legislature, now adjourned, considered a handful of gun bills during its session. One bill sought to prohibit credit card companies from mandating specific merchant category codes for firearms retailers and prevent governmental entities from compiling lists of firearm owners based on background checks. This bill passed the legislature, but was vetoed by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in March.

Another proposed bill in Wisconsin sought to ban firearms in buildings or on the grounds of publicly or privately owned colleges and universities in the state. This bill did not advance in the legislature, but Democratic state Sen. Kelda Roys, the bills lead sponsor, plans to reintroduce it during the next legislative session.

We have now a whole generation of young people that have grown up with this horrible specter of gun violence following them through their education, Roys said.

In Georgia, a measure that bans firearm purchase tracking was signed into law in April and will go into effect in July.

A proposed bill in Arizona would have allowed people with valid concealed carry permits to carry firearms on university and college campuses.

Another Arizona bill under consideration would have prohibited local governments from restricting or banning gun shows within their respective jurisdictions. The Arizona legislature has adjourned, and neither bill advanced.

State legislators in Pennsylvania are still considering at least six gun bills, all of which would further restrict gun purchases and ownership. Some of these bills would ban future sales of assault weapons, outlaw the purchase, sale and production of untraceable guns and gun parts, and reduce the time judges have to notify the state police about people with mental health records from a week to about four days for background checks.

While some of these bills have failed in the House, the Pennsylvania legislature adjourns at the end of November, so there may be more activity closer to the upcoming election.

Permitless carry

State legislators in North Carolina may consider at least two gun-related bills this session, with sponsors planning to reintroduce and garner support for their proposals.

One bill would make North Carolina the 30th state to allow permitless concealed carry or constitutional carry, meaning it would be legal to carry a concealed firearm without a permit.

The bills supporters point to FBI data in arguing for the measure.

Crime rates go down when you have armed citizens. Theres no doubt about that. The FBI holds that up time and time again, said Republican state Rep. Keith Kidwell, one of the bills sponsors, in an interview with Stateline.

The gun rights group Grass Roots North Carolina is pushing for the supermajority Republican legislature to pass the bill, arguing that there has been no increase in violent crime in any of the states that have adopted constitutional carry.

In North Carolina, people are no longer required to apply for a pistol purchase permit from a sheriff, but they must still go through the sheriff for a concealed carry license. Grass Roots North Carolina would like to see the state enact a constitutional carry bill to remove this requirement.

We are particularly interested in passing [the bill] to make sure that we can keep some of these urban sheriffs from obstructing people from carrying concealed firearms for self-protection, said Paul Valone, the groups president, in an interview with Stateline.

The other bill would establish a so-called red flag law in North Carolina. At least 21 other states and the District of Columbia have similar laws, which typically allow a judge to take someones firearms away if they are deemed to be a harm to themselves or others.

Many gun rights groups argue that red flag laws infringe on Second Amendment rights and the right to due process.

I dont care which right it is, you dont take away peoples rights without the due process of law, Kidwell said, adding that he will work to prevent the bill from advancing.

Democratic state Rep. Marcia Morey, a former judge and the bills lead sponsor, told Stateline in an interview that the bill includes specific protections to prevent any infringement on due process rights.

Its just about keeping people safe, and the safety, I think, preempts any right to possess a gun, she said.

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 X.

The post Swing-state legislatures diverge on election-year gun measures appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
Bullets are seen in a magazine holder during a gun rights and free speech protest near the state Capitol in Raleigh, N.C., in 2020. States have considered a variety of gun policies this year, with especially heated debate in swing states. (Gerry Broome | The Associated Press)

Read more Stateline coverage of the 2024 election.

States continued to diverge on gun policy this year, with especially intense debate in the swing states that will decide Novembers election.

In Michigan, legislators are considering at least half a dozen gun bills that would create storage requirements and establish gun-free zones. In Pennsylvania, lawmakers are still debating measures that would ban sales of untraceable guns and gun parts, prohibit bump stocks and make some procedural changes related to gun purchases. Meanwhile, Republican legislators in Arizona, Georgia and North Carolina have sought to make it easier for people to procure guns and to carry them in more places.

This past week offered reminders of the continuing salience of guns in American life.

Last Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a 2018 rule  issued by the Trump administration  that banned bump stocks, which are attachments that transform semiautomatic rifles into weapons that can shoot hundreds of rounds per minute. The administration issued the rule after a gunman used semiautomatic rifles equipped with a bump stock device to kill 60 people and injure more than 500 others at a Las Vegas music festival.

And on Saturday, a gunman opened fire at a splash park in Rochester Hills, Michigan, injuring nine people  including two children. The violence came three years after a student opened fire at Oxford High School in the same county, killing four people and injuring seven.

Mass shootings that occur close to election seasons typically have a significant effect on the countrys perception of guns, according to experts.

If there are any particularly horrendous shootings in the months to come, that has a way of pushing the issue back to the forefront of the agenda, Robert Spitzer, a gun policy expert who has written six books and over 100 articles on gun policy, told Stateline.

Meanwhile, presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and GOP candidates nationwide have made crime and public disorder main themes of their campaigns  even though most crime measurements are trending downward.

Gun policy has been a topic of debate for decades, but has become especially prominent as the number of gun-related deaths and mass shootings has grown almost every year since 2014, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a nonprofit group that tracks gun violence in the United States.

A Gallup poll from October 2023 found that the majority of U.S. adults, or 56%, support stricter gun laws, while 31% think they should remain as they are and 12% prefer less strict laws. Meanwhile, a Pew Research Center survey from June 2023 found that 60% of U.S. adults say gun violence is a major problem in this country.

Other states  including Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Ohio, Oregon, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia  also considered gun-related legislation this year.

subhed]Electoral impact[/subhed]

Voters who support gun rights are often highly mobilized and consistently turn out at the polls because of their strong personal connections to firearms, according to politics and gun policy experts.

In contrast, voters who support gun safety measures are harder to mobilize because they are more likely to prioritize other issues, such as the economy or foreign policy.

A small but highly motivated minority can often win the day politically over a large but fairly apathetic majority, said Spitzer, an emeritus professor of political science at the State University of New York at Cortland and an adjunct at the William & Mary Law School. Thats kind of the short version of how you explain whats been going on in gun politics in America.

Extensive academic research and numerous studies can support either side of the gun policy debate. Politicians will use whatever data or studies that best support their platforms, according to political communications experts.

For example, left-leaning Democratic politicians often cite studies suggesting a correlation between stricter gun policies and lower crime rates, according to Jacob Neiheisel, a political science professor at the University at Buffalo.

But gun rights think tanks and organizations also produce research supporting their position, including the claim that crime rates drop when more people carry guns, Neiheisel added.

A small but highly motivated minority can often win the day politically over a large but fairly apathetic majority. Thats kind of the short version of how you explain whats been going on in gun politics in America.

 Robert Spitzer, gun policy expert

Experts stress that, regardless of party or position on gun policy, its important for people to understand how the data was collected and to be aware of potential biases.

For example, politicians often rely on annual national crime and victimization data produced by the FBI, but these datasets measure crime differently  a fact that is not always well understood by politicians or voters.

This allows some politicians to lean on the sources that best support their arguments on gun policy, according to Alex Piquero, a criminology professor at the University of Miami and former director of the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics.

Its not that the data are wrong. Its not that the data lie. Its just that there are different data measuring different things, Piquero said. But if the average person doesnt know that or doesnt take the time to understand  then they are an ill-educated voting populace.

Campuses and polling places

In Michigan, legislators are considering at least half a dozen gun bills, including measures that would establish firearm storage requirements and prohibit guns in certain state-owned buildings and within 100 feet of polling places, drop boxes, early voting sites and absentee ballot counting boards.

Being that we dont want firearms at polls or counting boards is very reasonable and very much needed in the spirit of promoting democracy  allowing people to cast their votes without fear of intimidation, said Democratic state Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou, one of the sponsors of the elections-related gun bills, in an interview with Stateline.

Tsernoglou said she expects both bills to pass this session. While they have already cleared the House and Senate, the bills await another vote in the House before advancing further. The legislature adjourns in December.

The Wisconsin state legislature, now adjourned, considered a handful of gun bills during its session. One bill sought to prohibit credit card companies from mandating specific merchant category codes for firearms retailers and prevent governmental entities from compiling lists of firearm owners based on background checks. This bill passed the legislature, but was vetoed by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in March.

Another proposed bill in Wisconsin sought to ban firearms in buildings or on the grounds of publicly or privately owned colleges and universities in the state. This bill did not advance in the legislature, but Democratic state Sen. Kelda Roys, the bills lead sponsor, plans to reintroduce it during the next legislative session.

We have now a whole generation of young people that have grown up with this horrible specter of gun violence following them through their education, Roys said.

In Georgia, a measure that bans firearm purchase tracking was signed into law in April and will go into effect in July.

A proposed bill in Arizona would have allowed people with valid concealed carry permits to carry firearms on university and college campuses.

Another Arizona bill under consideration would have prohibited local governments from restricting or banning gun shows within their respective jurisdictions. The Arizona legislature has adjourned, and neither bill advanced.

State legislators in Pennsylvania are still considering at least six gun bills, all of which would further restrict gun purchases and ownership. Some of these bills would ban future sales of assault weapons, outlaw the purchase, sale and production of untraceable guns and gun parts, and reduce the time judges have to notify the state police about people with mental health records from a week to about four days for background checks.

While some of these bills have failed in the House, the Pennsylvania legislature adjourns at the end of November, so there may be more activity closer to the upcoming election.

Permitless carry

State legislators in North Carolina may consider at least two gun-related bills this session, with sponsors planning to reintroduce and garner support for their proposals.

One bill would make North Carolina the 30th state to allow permitless concealed carry or constitutional carry, meaning it would be legal to carry a concealed firearm without a permit.

The bills supporters point to FBI data in arguing for the measure.

Crime rates go down when you have armed citizens. Theres no doubt about that. The FBI holds that up time and time again, said Republican state Rep. Keith Kidwell, one of the bills sponsors, in an interview with Stateline.

The gun rights group Grass Roots North Carolina is pushing for the supermajority Republican legislature to pass the bill, arguing that there has been no increase in violent crime in any of the states that have adopted constitutional carry.

In North Carolina, people are no longer required to apply for a pistol purchase permit from a sheriff, but they must still go through the sheriff for a concealed carry license. Grass Roots North Carolina would like to see the state enact a constitutional carry bill to remove this requirement.

We are particularly interested in passing [the bill] to make sure that we can keep some of these urban sheriffs from obstructing people from carrying concealed firearms for self-protection, said Paul Valone, the groups president, in an interview with Stateline.

The other bill would establish a so-called red flag law in North Carolina. At least 21 other states and the District of Columbia have similar laws, which typically allow a judge to take someones firearms away if they are deemed to be a harm to themselves or others.

Many gun rights groups argue that red flag laws infringe on Second Amendment rights and the right to due process.

I dont care which right it is, you dont take away peoples rights without the due process of law, Kidwell said, adding that he will work to prevent the bill from advancing.

Democratic state Rep. Marcia Morey, a former judge and the bills lead sponsor, told Stateline in an interview that the bill includes specific protections to prevent any infringement on due process rights.

Its just about keeping people safe, and the safety, I think, preempts any right to possess a gun, she said.

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 X.

The post Swing-state legislatures diverge on election-year gun measures appeared first on West Virginia Watch.
Swiss think tank finds no evidence of large-scale smuggling of Western-supplied weapons from Ukraine  Politico

There is no evidence that Western weapons being supplied to Ukraine end up on the black market in Europe.

Source: Politico, citing Global Initiative against Transnational Organised Crime (GI-TOC) think tank in Switzerland, as reported by European Pravda

Details: This data undermines the narrative promoted by Russia, which claims that one-fifth of the Western weapons coming to Ukraine end up on the black market for resale to terrorists and rebel groups.

"We did not find any evidence of Western weapons making it to Western Europe and very limited evidence of any kind of transactions with Western weapons in Ukraine," said Daniel Brombacher, Director of the GI-TOCs Europe Observatory.

"The guns that have been delivered by the West are in good hands," he added.

The organisation's analysis, which focuses on illegal markets in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Sweden, is based on darknet monitoring and interviews with EU law enforcement and underworld figures.

The report also undermines the assumption that NATO military equipment is being used to arm European gangsters.

The Spanish Civil Guard, one of the two national enforcement agencies of Spain, said in May that a group of hashish smugglers had opened fire on police with US and European-made rifles and that NATO-standard ammunition had been found in previous raids. Spanish newspaper El Espanol claimed that Latin American drug cartels send their representatives to Kyiv to make bulk purchases. However, GI-TOC found no evidence to support these claims, many of which have been refuted.

In October 2022, a Finnish organised crime leader told the media that gangs were smuggling Western weapons meant for Ukraine into Finland, Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands. A police official denied this claim.

A further investigation by GI-TOC found that three Finnish criminal masterminds did indeed travel to Eastern Europe in mid-2022 "with the intention of bringing back weapons, but failed to do so, as they lacked the necessary organisational skills or access to financing," Brombacher told Politico.

The report found that the Ukrainian government has been effective in preventing the illegal use of weapons by the military: only 250 cases were recorded in 2022 and 191 in 2021, which is a small number for a country that receives billions of dollars in military aid from the West.

Background:

Last year, Ukraine's Foreign Ministry demanded that the Financial Times immediately conduct an editorial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the publication of materials on arms smuggling that appeared to contain disinformation benefiting Russia.

EU foreign policy spokesperson Peter Stano said that Russia had launched an intensive disinformation campaign against Ukraine, the EU and NATO, claiming that it was "smuggling weapons" supplied by its allies.

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Taiwan president says only military strength can keep the peace with China

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te visits Republic of China Military Academy for its 100th anniversary celebrations in Kaohsiung

By Ben Blanchard and Faith Hung

TAIPEI (Reuters) - Only military strength can keep the peace with China and the Taiwanese people will not give in to Chinese coercion, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Wednesday as the United States agreed on a speeded-up arms package.

China, whose government views Taiwan as its own territory, held two days of war games around the island shortly after Lai took office last month, saying it was "punishment" for his inauguration speech, which Beijing denounced as being full of separatist context.

Speaking at a news conference to mark one month since assuming the presidency, Lai said Taiwan's people "love peace".

"But peace must rely on strength, which is to say avoiding war by preparing for war to achieve peace. Empty promises are not true peace," he said.

China's national policy is to annex Taiwan, Lai added.

"Apart from using force, in recent years they have even been using non-traditional coercive measures to force Taiwan to succumb but Taiwan will not give in," he said.

Taiwan says such coercive means include preventing Taiwan's participation in international bodies and events, banning or heavily taxing certain exports to China, and "grey zone" tactics such as flying balloons over the island.

Shortly before Lai spoke to reporters at the presidential office in Taipei, the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency said U.S. State Department had approved the sale to Taiwan of drones and missiles for an estimated $360 million.

The United States is bound by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself despite the lack of formal diplomatic ties, to the constant anger of Beijing.

Taiwan's defence ministry expressed its thanks, especially for U.S. efforts to increase arms sales to the island. Taiwan has repeatedly complained of delayed deliveries.

"The Taiwan-U.S. special management team continues to work hard to improve the efficiency of arms sales operations between the two sides. This time, the administrative review time has been significantly shortened," the ministry said in a statement, without elaborating.

Although the United States is Taiwan's main international arms provider, Lai and his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen have made boosting domestic capabilities a priority.

"Going forward we will continue to strengthen Taiwan's defence capabilities, not only on arms purchases but also on defence self-sufficiency," he said.

Lai has repeatedly offered talks with China but been rebuffed.

He says only Taiwan's people can decide their future, and that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are "not subordinate to each other", which he told reporters was the consensus of society in Taiwan.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard and Faith Hung. Editing by Gerry Doyle)
City of Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey welcomes the community together to celebrate Tallahassees 200th birthday in front of City Hall on Monday, March 4, 2024.

Tallahassee city commissioners Wednesday unanimously approved three legal settlements that could cost as much as $3.4 million.

The Florida Department of Transportation, a resident and a business were seeking relief from the city for damage caused by roadway accidents and sewage spills within the last two years.

City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow made a point to discuss the case involving FDOT because of the large amount of money involved. Agenda material shows that FDOT alone could be given $3.1 million for damage caused by a city employee driving a solid waste vehicle to the train overpass east of Monroe Street on Apalachee Parkway.

Matlow asked City Manager Reese Goad if there is anything in place to ensure something similar doesn't happen again. Goad responded that new safety protocols are being put in place.

As Goad explained, in January 2022, the driver of a city beautification and waste management truck left the boom in an upright position. It struck the overpass as it went under the bridge.

The other two settlement cases drew no discussion: A 61-year-old woman was seeking $140,000 for past medical expenses that were a result of an accident caused by a city employee. According to agenda materials, the woman was hit in July 2022 at the intersection of Blair Stone Road and Capital Circle Southeast and lead to numerous medical complications.

Also, a business was seeking relief from the city when its building in the Woodcrest Office Park on John Knox Road was flooded with sewage after one of the city's mainlines got clogged and led to backup in the building.

The settlement claim is for almost $155,000 to cover the costs of clean up, repairs and replacements, according to agenda materials. The company will receive $105,000 and the other almost $50,000 will be reimbursed to the city "for payment of extraction costs paid."

Breaking & trending news reporter Elena Barrera can be reached at ebarrera@tallahassee.com. Follow her on X: @elenabarreraaa.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee City Commission OKs up to $3.4 million in settlements
Tanner Dashner, guilty of 2018 fiery crash that killed five, gets more prison time

FORT PIERCE  Two years after a judge ordered Tanner Dashner to serve 72 years for causing a 2018 fiery crash that left five people dead, he was ordered Wednesday to spend an additional 75 years behind bars, a prosecutor said.

The extra prison time stemmed from five vehicular homicide charges that earlier had been thrown out by Senior Circuit Judge Robert Makemson. Dashner, 26, received 15 years on each count to run consecutively in the proceeding in Makemson's court, Assistant State Attorney Brandon White said Wednesday.

Those are to run consecutive to the 72.5 years to which he had been sentenced in 2022 related to five DUI manslaughter charges, White said.

I'm not jumping for joy and celebration, because no matter what, it's still a sad day for everyone, including the defendant, his family, White said. However, justice required this, and that's ultimately why we did what we did.

What happened

On Nov. 23, 2018, Dashner, then 21, was driving more than three times the speed limit and under the influence of alcohol on South 25th Street when his GMC Yukon slammed into the back of a Dodge Dakota at Midway Road.

Tanner Dashner

The Dodge, driven by Kedan Tillett, 27, of Fort Pierce, and a BMW in front of it had been stopped at the red light at Midway Road. Dashner didnt slow down as the Dodge and BMW began to accelerate from a stop after the red light turned green.

Dashner's GMC hit the Dodge, which then crashed into the BMW. The GMC struck the Dodge a second time.

Arrest reports stated the Dodge's gas tank "was compromised and ignited into a fire."

Tillett, and four passengers  Alexis Chaney, 17; Anthony Victor, 21; Anthony Martin, 16, all of Fort Pierce; and Darien Douglas, 21, of Port St. Lucie  all died as the pickup caught fire. A sixth person in the Dodge, 14-year-old Ari'yonnia Stanberry, of Stuart, was pulled out of the truck by a bystander.

FHP investigators reported that Dashner had a blood-alcohol content of 0.274 percent, more than triple the legal limit of 0.08.

In his vehicle, investigators found a bottle of Bacardi Superior rum that was about a quarter full, and an empty bottle of Crown Royal Regal apple flavored whiskey.

Earlier sentencing hearing

Dashner avoided a trial in 2022 by pleading no contest to five counts each of DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide and single counts each of driving under the influence with damage to a person and driving under the influence with damage to property.

During an emotional hearing in June 2022 that spanned two days, Makemson announced Dashner would serve a term including 14 years for each of five DUI manslaughter charges with credit for nearly 1,300 days. The terms were ordered to be consecutive, meaning 72 years. Dashner got time served on two lesser misdemeanor charges.

Before Makemson imposed Dashner's punishment, his attorney Ashley Minton argued in favor of dismissing the five vehicular homicide counts on grounds of double jeopardy.

The state, which objected to the move, countered in court that Florida case law allows a defendant to be convicted of both DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide for each fatality.

Makemson though, disagreed and threw out the five vehicular homicide counts after Dashner had pleaded no contest, court records show.

State prosecutors appealed and in December, the Fourth District Court of Appeal seated in West Palm Beach, reversed Makemsons ruling. The appellate court ordered that Dashner be sentenced on the five dismissed counts, which carried a maximum punishment of 15 years for each conviction.

Reached Wednesday, Minton declined to comment.

White, who said Assistant State Attorney Kim Cortez also worked on the case, said the appeals court found Makemson erred by not sentencing Dashner for the vehicular homicide convictions.

This was necessary, we had to appeal because we have to uphold the law," White said. "The legislature gave us a law, and we had to uphold it.

Governor's pen: $11.5 million for Treasure Coast projects vetoed from state budget, mostly in St. Lucie

Brightline West: As construction begins, how is it different from Florida's Brightline?

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: Tanner Dashner gets more prison time for 2018 crash that killed five
Proposed new vaping rules could block hundreds of e-cigarette products from being sold in North Carolina.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee backed legislation on Wednesday to create a vaping registry that allows only federally authorized vaping products to be sold in North Carolina. Most vaping products on the shelves have not been authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Sen. Michael Lee, a New Hanover County Republican, said the legislation is needed to protect people from the dangers of vaping use.

This amendment is not perfect, Lee told the committee. There are other things we can do. I wish that we had worked on something even sooner than where we are today.

Vaping industry representatives warned lawmakers that the bill will cost people jobs and money.

Youre affecting hundreds of businesses that are owned and operated out of the state of North Carolina, and youre affecting thousands of jobs, said Joe Palmer of Lincolnton, who told the committee he was speaking on behalf of 40 families affected by the vaping changes.

The vaping language was tacked on to an existing bill that allows the Wake County school systems two leadership academies to retain their state designation as early college high schools. Wake is ending its relationship with St. Augustines University to find a new college partner for the schools.

The bill goes to the Senate Rules Committee.

Vaping epidemic

E-cigarettes are electronic devices that use a liquid laced with nicotine, producing a vapor which users inhale. Their popularity caused the FDA to declare an epidemic of underage vaping among young people.

From 2018 to 2019, use of e-cigarettes rose 78% among high schoolers and 48% among middle schoolers, according to the N.C. Youth Tobacco Survey.

Its become such an issue that a number of schools have installed vape detectors.

The mens bathroom at Morehead High School, pictured on April 15, 2024, is one of several student restrooms at the Eden school equipped with vape detectors.

The state and multiple North Carolina school districts have successfully joined federal class-action lawsuits against e-cigarette makers, like Juul.

North Carolina won $47.8 million in a settlement with Juul. North Carolina was the first state to challenge and force change in how Juul targets teens with its marketing.

Bill creates vaping directory

Under the legislation, manufacturers would need to be certified by the state Department of Revenue to have products put on a directory of eligible vaping products.

Certification requirements would include having submitted an accepted application for vape products to the FDA by Sept. 9, 2020.

Every retailer has the opportunity to go on the directory to see if what theyre selling has been approved, to see if what theyre selling has gone through the FDA process or whether its a black market type of product, which I suspect this would be considered, Lee said. Those retailers will have a period after this directory is out to sell out their inventory or return it to the manufacturer.

Retailers who sell prohibited products, as well as manufacturers, would face hefty penalties, Lee said, to protect the kids and to protect others.

Vaping industry warns of lost jobs, revenue

Vaping industry representatives unsuccessfully lobbied Wednesday for an amendment to allow for products whose applications were submitted to the FDA in 2022.

Kevin Wilkinson, a lobbyist for the Vaping Technology Association, said the bill would cause 2,095 vaping jobs to disappear. He said it would lead to a loss of $447.4 million to the state economy and a loss of $105 million in state and local tax revenue.

Ches McDowell told the committee he was representing 1,700 Asian-American owned convenience stories in North Carolina. McDowell said the bill would take away a profitable item for families trying to build on the American dream.

What this bill does will take hundreds of products off the shelf that these folks make money on and rely on to feed their families, McDowell said. We ask you to take a harder look at this and what this does to our community.

Under the Dome

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Bipartisanship is falling apart at the Senate Commerce Committee after Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) won plaudits last month for shepherding the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization through committee and into law.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) ripped Cruz on Monday night for fighting petty partisan culture wars over the Spectrum and National Security Act, which was supposed to receive a markup in committee that day.

Commerce Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) says she was forced to postpone the committee markup of legislation to extend subsidies for high-speed internet because Cruz had insisted on modifications that would have gutted bipartisan amendments that had been negotiated with Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).

Cantwell said the hard-won compromise on the Affordable Connectivity Program to help low-income families afford speedy internet had been months in the making and would have provided a balanced approach to spectrum management.

And she argued it would have expanded high-speed connectivity for lower income families while protecting our defense by ensuring our military has telecommunications they need by preserving spectrum that the Defense Department doesnt want to auction off.

Cantwell blamed Cruz for obstructing the bills progress and urged him and other Republicans to get back to negotiating.

A Senate Democratic aide said Cruz alone had filed 38 amendments and modified amendments to the bill, as well as 14 amendments or modifications to bipartisan reforms Wicker proposed for the Affordable Connectivity Program.

A Republican source familiar with the internal committee discussion said those figures were misleading and that Cantwell and her staff knew for months what changes they wanted to make to the bill.

The GOP source said Cruz was forced to propose modifications to existing amendments because Cantwell didnt want to allow Republicans to offer new amendments to the bill, despite rewriting it several times.

But Cantwell believes Cruzs ultimate goal was to stop the reauthorization of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) dead in its tracks.

I definitely dont think he likes ACP, thats for sure, Cantwell told The Hill. I think they really dont want to have a bill. I think there are some in the private sector who dont even want to have a bill because I think theyre not ready to bid.

I think that those on the other side [of the aisle] are protecting those interests, she said. This was a hard-fought compromise.

Cruz has presented himself as a bipartisan problem solver during his reelection race in Texas, telling The Texas Tribune earlier this year, I actually have very good relationships with many of my colleagues across the aisle.

His supporters earlier this year launched Democrats for Cruz to entice centrist and left-leaning voters to support him over Democratic Rep. Colin Allred (Texas) in the general election.

At the same time, Cruz has taken shots at Democrats.

The Texas senator on Tuesday ripped Cantwell for moving a bill that he says would have given free internet to illegal aliens, millions to antisemitic colleges, and billions to mega-corporations with no strings attached.

In a shameless blame-game, Democrats accidentally revealed what they truly think about taxpayers  that they are dupes, he fumed in a statement. Pathetic and offensive.

Cruz issued his statement after Schumer and Cantwell slammed him for blocking a bill that they say would help 23 million Americans who rely on federal subsidies to use the internet.

Sadly, it is clear Ranking Member Cruz is more interested in carrying water for big corporations than helping working families in Texas. Instead of making these much-needed and common-sense investments, Senator Cruz has chosen to obstruct and delay the committee process with petty partisan culture wars all to serve wealthy and well-connected corporations at the cost of working Americans who are struggling to get by, Schumer said in a scathing statement.

Democrats accused Cruz of trying to force vulnerable Senate Democrats on the Commerce panel, including Sens. Jon Tester (Mont.) and Jacky Rosen (Nev.), to vote on politically dangerous amendments.

One proposed amendment would have restricted Affordable Connectivity Program subsidies from going to illegal immigrants, while another would have kept National Science Foundation money and National Institute of Standards and Technology funds from going to universities and colleges under investigation for antisemitic incidents related to the Gaza anti-war protests.

Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), the chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and a member of the Commerce Committee, said Republicans derailed the markup by pushing political gotcha amendments.

Yes, there are some of those, he said.

The sudden blowup with Cruz over the little-noticed broadband spectrum legislation contrasted with his handling of a a five-year FAA reauthorization he helped steer through the Senate.

Cruz protected that bill from poison-pill amendments, defying his reputation as a conservative bomb-thrower.

The Texan has long been seen as a tough partisan, and even fellow Republicans watched with amusement last month as Cruz transformed from conservative rebel into committee leader tasked with keeping an important train running on time.

Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) said last month that Cruz had taken a lot of ribbing over playing the role of responsible graybeard by shutting down votes to amend the FAA bill.

Of course, hes making a pitch that this is different than all the other times when hes insisted on having amendment votes, because this one was much more transparent  People are slightly amused by his compliance, Cramer told The Hill.

Senate Democrats, however, were not at all pleased with Cruzs effort to rebrand himself as a bipartisan deal-maker who can work across the aisle to get things done.

One Senate Democratic aide said getting the five-year reauthorization passed through the Senate was the bare minimum Cruz had to do to discharge his responsibility as the top-ranking Republican on the Commerce Committee.

Thats the bare minimum if youre the ranking member of the committee. What are you going to do? Say no? the aide said.

A Democratic senator was even more blunt in trying to knock down the narrative that Cruz is the better bipartisan compared to Allred, as he told The Texas Tribune.

I never said that, the senator said of the notion that Cruz has become adept as a bipartisan deal-maker. I think its insane.

Cruz and Sen. Rick Scott (R) of Florida are viewed as the Senates two most vulnerable GOP incumbents in this years election, though both are favored to win.

Democrats have touted Texas and Florida as pickup opportunities, something they are desperate for given the retirement of Sen. Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.) and the tough races that Tester and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D) face in Montana and Ohio, respectively, two states Trump won in 2016 and 2020.

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.
Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng (R) meets with Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Dr. Rahul Gupta in Washington, D.C., the United States, June 14, 2024. (Photo credit: Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States of America)

Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng emphasized that "the fentanyl problem is not China's problem, nor was it caused by China," according to a news release. "But out of humanitarian considerations, China has been doing its utmost to help the U.S. side deal with the fentanyl issue," he said.



WASHINGTON, June 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese and U.S. officials met recently and discussed the promotion of counternarcotics cooperation between the two countries.

According to a news release issued by the Chinese Embassy on Tuesday, during a meeting between Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng and Rahul Gupta, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, last Friday, "the two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on promoting counternarcotics cooperation between the two countries on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit."

Xie welcomed Gupta's upcoming visit to China, and briefed Gupta on the recent efforts of China's drug control authorities, emphasizing that "the fentanyl problem is not China's problem, nor was it caused by China," the release said.

"But out of humanitarian considerations, China has been doing its utmost to help the U.S. side deal with the fentanyl issue," Xie told Gupta, the release said.

China, Xie said, "has made great efforts and demonstrated its sincerity for cooperation."

"The U.S. side needs to move in the same direction with China, take China's concerns seriously and earnestly address them, so as to create a favorable atmosphere for cooperation," he added. 
DENVER (KDVR)  On Wednesday, a historic Ford car is stopping in Steamboat Springs on its journey to the west coast.

The history of the renowned car starts over 100 years ago when the first 1909 Model T Touring Car was produced in 1908, according to the Museum of American Speed. At the time, the car was priced at $850.

Big Boy, the 1.1 million pound train, passing through Colorado this fall

After assembly lines and production methods changed, the museum said the model price went as low as $290, which is when the 1924 Tin Lizzie was created.

When the Ford Model Ts were made, the Ford Motor Company drove the ten millionth model from New York to San Francisco on the Lincoln Highway in an effort to get Americans to embrace the shocking new invention, AAA said.

Now, the same car is going to make the journey again.

1924 Ford Model T in 1974 (Courtesy of AAA)

1924 Ford Model T (Courtesy of AAA)

1924 Ford Model T (Courtesy of AAA)

1924 Ford Model T (Courtesy of AAA)

1924 Ford Model T (Courtesy of AAA)

This Ford Model T, which usually lives at the museum, hit the (now paved) roads on its drive from New York to San Francisco.

On Wednesday, the car is stopping in Steamboat Springs at Steamboat Motors.

Fences to be removed from these blocks along 16th Street Mall this summer

If you want to see the historic car, you can catch it between 4-6 p.m. While the car has a set schedule, the times arent as accurate in Colorado because of the elevation.

Timing will be dictated by how well this historic vehicle takes to thin air and high-country terrain, AAA said in a press release.

If you want to track the cars movement to California, the full schedule of its journey is on the museums 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 FOX31 Denver.
SOMERVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  People living in a Somerville community on High Street are confused and frustrated because they are not receiving mail from the postal service.

Most of them suffer from medical issues and are waiting for important documents from their physician related to their conditions.

Motorcyclist airlifted to hospital after Decatur wreck

Shiela Maples is 74 years of age and has lived here on High Street for decades. As part of her survival, she needs her mail that hasnt come in weeks.

I dont know what to do, I just want my mail, said Maples. I dont know where to turn because that post office postmaster will not help.

Maples said that she sent a letter to the postmaster from her doctor to receive her medications but was turned away.

They said I dont care what the letter says its not going to come. Im 74 years old I just want my mail, said Maples.

Maples and the other tenants then reached out to property owner Daniel Pannell. Pannell says his family has owned this high street community for nearly a century and has never had an issue with mail delivery.

DPD: Two, including 17-year-old, taken to hospital in weekend shootings

Pannell told News 19 that hes been going back and forth with the postmaster, who sent him a letter demanding that he fix the road and the debris from around the mailboxes. He says that has never been an issue and it has been rectified for over a month.

Ive had the road commissioner come out and look at it and he didnt see anything wrong, Pannell explained. The local police officers came by, and they didnt see anything wrong and its clearly able to deliver mail to. The tenants need the mail, some of them do not have ways to go and get the mail from the post office because they dont have cars and they are disabled.

Pannell says that he has reached out to the mayor of Somerville, the city council as well has the United States Postal Service (USPS) central office, but the Somerville postmaster has still refused to deliver the mail.

Im tired of waiting and there shouldnt be a hold-up. Sheila Maples is just a mile away, so come and look at the road and the grass and let them have their mail.

News 19 contacted the central office which is looking into the issue.

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.
SAN FRANCISCO (BCN)  On Tuesday, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a pilot program that will place a curfew on overnight retail stores and shops in the citys Tenderloin neighborhood.

Retail food and tobacco shops in the high-crime area will be prohibited from operating between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m.

Bobs Donuts plans to relocate San Francisco location

Businesses that hold a state liquor license are already required by law to be closed from 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. The 20-block area is between OFarrell and McAllister streets and between Polk and Jones streets.

The legislation would not apply to restaurants, bars, or event halls. Fines can be levied for up to $1,000 for each hour a store operates in violation of the ordinance.

A petition in support of the mayors legislation was submitted Friday with 521 signatures of Tenderloin residents and community organizations. One of the organizations that collected signatures was the Tenderloin Housing Clinic, which is located inside the zone in the 400 block of Ellis Street.

There are good store owners in this neighborhood that we love and that care about the community, said Pratibha Tekkey, the clinics director of community organizing. Most of our business owners are immigrant business owners and we are proud of that. But what we did not want is people opening up shops left, right and center and feeding into this ecosystem.

San Joses Raging Waters to reopen this summer with new name, ownership

Tekkey said she thinks the stores cater to nighttime drug use.

These stores usually sell snacks and sweets and things that you need to keep it going once you use drugs to keep yourself high. And when youre coming down, she said. We dont want stores feeding into a system of crime, with people hanging out, doing drugs, selling drugs, buying stolen goods, selling stolen goods, all in front of the store.

Copyright  2024 Bay City News, Inc. All rights reserved.

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.
HCMC in Minneapolis is grappling with tensions around an employee-planned discussion about Palestine that was approved but later called off by hospital leadership.

A group of employees at the safety-net hospital in downtown Minneapolis say they organized the event to discuss impacts to health care workers in Gaza amid the Israel-Hamas war in the region. They say the decision to postpone it raises issues of academic freedom and is in opposition to hospital goals around racial equity. Three leaders of employee affinity groups have since resigned those internal positions in protest.

"Being an employee, and witnessing what's happening in Palestine is not good for our mental health, and not being able to process and talk about it is not good for mental health," said Eiko Mizushima, a Hennepin occupational therapist involved with the organizing.

Leaders at the hospital, which is run by the Hennepin Healthcare system, say they believed the focus of the event would be on Palestinian culture in conjunction with Asian and Pacific Heritage month. Concern grew amid word that it may have caught the interest of some outside demonstrators, Chief Health Equity Officer Nneka Sederstrom said.

"I'm not going to allow external people coming to an internal event that could cause disruption, that would cause issues for our patients ... our community is our top priority," Sederstrom said.

Government agencies, schools, hospitals and other institutions have dealt with internal conflict around the war in Gaza since it broke out last October. Employees and students who want to be able to react to world events that impact their mental health and work are butting up against officials and administrators who are trying to emphasize that such debates should be secondary to running places of business and learning.

At HCMC, members of several Asian, Muslim and LGBTQ "collectives," which are employee affinity groups that focus on wellness, put together a joint statement on the war in Gaza that they hoped to release publicly. They approached hospital administrators and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) officials, who suggested as an alternative an event focused on Palestine.

The collectives went on to plan an event that would center on Palestinian culture and history, and feature a discussion of how the situation in Gaza is impacting health care workers in Palestine, locally and globally. Dr. Christine Harb, a local doctor who is Palestinian, was tapped as a speaker.

The event was approved by the hospital's DEI department. Mizushima said that organizers repeatedly reiterated to hospital leadership that all employees would be welcome, including Jewish employees.

"We're in charge of employee wellness," Mizushima said of the employee collectives. She has since resigned as co-chair of the hospital's Asian employee collective over the controversy.

As the planned June 7 event approached, Harb posted to her personal social media asking for support from members of the community due to safety concerns. She wrote that, in her words, "Zionists would be attending."

The post was later taken down, but it contributed to concerns by hospital administrators, who ultimately postponed the event three days before it was to take place.

What had initially been approved was a cultural celebration of the Palestinian people with food, music and dance, Sederstrom said. Harb's Instragram post caused concern that the speaker didn't know what had been approved, Sederstrom said, adding that collective-sponsored events are intended to be by employees, for employees and not open to the public.

"This was an opportunity to normalize Palestinian culture, and we're still going to do it," Sederstrom said. "It's just not going to be used or co-opted for activism that doesn't coincide and go along with the mission of the organization ... we aren't an activist group, we are a community hospital."

Committee members have started working on the rescheduled version of the event and the re-securing of vendors and participants, she said.

But members of the employee groups say the decision to exclude Harb from the rescheduled event felt like an effective cancellation. Some have penned a petition on change.org that said the hospital is "censoring healthcare workers who are speaking about the dehumanization and systematic mass murder of Palestinians."

As the major public academic medical center in Minnesota, it felt important for the collectives to host the talk, said Dr. Max Fraden. Similar events where Fraden has spoken about the health impacts of the wars in Somalia and Tigray have proceeded without issue, he said.

"A bunch of us Jewish doctors, non-Jewish doctors were really excited for this talk. When we heard that it was canceled, we were quite upset," Fraden said. "I have family in Israel. And I think it's really important that all sides of an issue are academically explored."

Harb hosted her original version of the talk in an online media webinar that garnered nearly 200 attendees, Mizushima said.

"I was really dismayed that such an excellent presentation could be called divisive," Mizushima said. "It really focused on the social determinants of health. Eighty percent of health outcomes are determined by non-medical factors ... access to food and water and psychological safety."

The hospital prides itself on anti-racism and moving toward health equity, and the postponement felt in opposition to that, said Hana-May Eadeh, a psychology fellow at the hospital who is Palestinian. Current events impact patient care for those who are Palestinian or Middle Eastern, Eadeh said.

"We need to be able to speak out, to talk about how wrong this is," Eadeh said. "I think canceling or silencing this type of talk about genocide or what's happening in Palestine just shows a lack of awareness around health equity and anti-racism."

The hospital has created wellness spaces for collective members to discuss how events outside of work are impacting them outside their scrubs, Sederstrom said.

Employees are still hoping the event's original speaker will be invited to return for her presentation.
A quadcopter drone. Original public domain image from Wikimedia Commons

U.S. Sen Jon Tester will introduce a bill Thursday to crack down on Chinese-made drones in a bid to protect privacy and increase national security.

A version of the Countering CCP Drones Act has had bipartisan support in the U.S. House but has met resistance from the Chinese company it targets, Da-Jiang Innovations.

DJI dominates the drone market in the U.S. and has a powerful lobbying effort in Washington, D.C., according to The New York Times.

Political leaders in the U.S. are worried about spying by China. Testers bill would cut off drones made by DJI from U.S. communications infrastructure.

Defending Montana is my top priority and that means making sure foreign adversaries like China who want to do us harm dont get a foothold in our country, whether thats through buying up our farmland or operating in our airspaces like we saw with the spy balloon, said Tester, a Democrat, in a statement from his office.

In February 2023, Department of Defense officials confirmed a balloon from China was flying over the United States after a couple of photojournalists in Montana captured its image over Billings.

The balloon flew over nuclear warhead sites in Montana before the Biden administration shot it down over the South Carolina coast.

Both Tester, chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, and Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines have since sought to hold the Biden administration accountable for addressing national security threats and informing the public about them.

Testers office notes his version of the Countering CCP Drones Act would do the following:

Add Chinese drone manufacturing DJI to the Federal Communications Commission Covered List, which would prohibit the companys drones from connecting to U.S. communications infrastructure;

Require the Department of Defense to determine whether other Chinese drone manufacturers should be added to the list of Chinese military companies operating in the United States; and

Establish a grant program for state and local law enforcement agencies to replace their existing DJI systems with U.S.-made drones.

Last year, the Countering CCP Drones Act was introduced by Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York in the U.S. House. Her office said it was passed unanimously by the House Energy and Commerce Committee earlier this year.

Drones are used recreationally. They also are used by government agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service to manage forest fires and other emergencies.

DJI accounts for 58% of commercial market drones in the U.S. and 90% of the law enforcement market in this country, the New York Times reported, citing a former DJI employee and academic study.

Cheap Chinese drones are flooding the American market, costing American jobs and putting our privacy and national security at risk, Tester said in a statement. My commonsense legislation will crack down on Chinese-made drones to bolster our national security, protect Americans privacy, and support U.S. manufacturers.

Tester also has teamed up with Republicans to push bills that prohibit foreign adversaries such as China from purchasing or leasing U.S. farmland, including legislation thats pending in a U.S. Senate committee.

The post Tester to introduce bill cracking down on Chinese-made drones appeared first on Daily Montanan.
AUSTIN, Texas (TEXAS TRIBUNE)  Kerry Max Cook is innocent of the 1977 murder of Linda Jo Edwards, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals found, citing stunning allegations of prosecutorial misconduct that led to Cook spending 20 years on death row for a crime he did not commit.

Kerry Max Cook was accused of killing 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards back in 1977 in Tyler. (Courtesy: KETK Archives from 1999)

Cook was released from prison in 1997 and Smith County prosecutors set aside his conviction in 2016. The ruling Wednesday, by the states highest criminal court, formally exonerates him.

San Augustine County searching for missing K9

This case is riddled with allegations of State misconduct that warrant setting aside Applicants conviction, Judge Bert Richardson wrote in the majority opinion. And when it comes to solid support for actual innocence, this case contains it all  uncontroverted Brady violations, proof of false testimony, admissions of perjury and new scientific evidence.

Cook, now 68, became an advocate against the death penalty after his release. The ruling ends, as Richardson wrote, a winding legal odyssey stretching 40 years that was marked by bookends of deception.

Kerry Max Cook was accused of killing 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards back in 1977 in Tyler.

Picture from KETK archives of an original crime scene photo from the trial of Kerry Max Cook, who was accused of killing 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards in 1997 in Tyler.

Prosecutors in Smith County, in East Texas, accused Cook of the 1977 rape, murder and mutilation of 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards. Cooks first conviction in 1978 was overturned.

A second trial in 1992 ended in a mistrial and a third in 1994 concluded with a new conviction and death sentence. The Court of Criminal Appeals reversed the second verdict in 1996, stating that misconduct by police and prosecutors had tainted the case from the start.

Picture from KETK archives of the trial of Kerry Max Cook, who was accused of killing 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards in 1997 in Tyler.

Picture from KETK archives of the trial of Kerry Max Cook, who was accused of killing 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards in 1997 in Tyler.

Picture from KETK archives of the trial of Kerry Max Cook, who was accused of killing 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards in 1997 in Tyler.

Picture from KETK archives of the trial of Kerry Max Cook, who was accused of killing 21-year-old Linda Jo Edwards in 1997 in Tyler.

The Smith County district attorney intended to try Cook a fourth time in 1999 but settled for a plea deal in which Cook was released from prison but his conviction stood. Until Wednesday, he was still classified as a murderer by the Texas justice system.

Smith County District Attorney Jacob Putman did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Cook could not be reached for comment.

The Court of Criminal Appeals opinion Wednesday noted numerous instances of wrongdoing by police and prosecutors. During the 1978 trial, the prosecution illegally withheld favorable evidence from Cooks defense team and much of the evidence they did present was revealed to be false.

One of the prosecutions witnesses was a jailhouse snitch who met Cook at the Smith County jail and said Cook confessed to the murder. The witness later recanted his testimony as false, stating: I lied on him to save myself.

Kerry Max Cook with his mother Evelyn at his side speaks to the media after he was released from the Smith County Jail in Tyler, Texas, Tuesday Nov. 11, 1997. Cook, a former Texas death row inmate, had been jailed pending his fourth trial for capital murder. (AP Photo/Ron Heflin)

The prosecution also withheld that in exchange for that damning testimony, they had agreed to lower that witnesss first-degree murder charge to voluntary manslaughter.

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 KETK.com | FOX51.com.
A Houston-based surgeon stands accused of betraying the privacy of transgender kids who werent under his care by stealing their medical information and handing it over to a far-right extremist who vehemently opposes transgender rights. The federal indictment , unsealed on Monday, details Dr. Eithan Haims alleged unauthorized access and disclosure of sensitive patient information at Texas Childrens Hospital.



Haim, 34, completed his residency at Baylor College of Medicine and reportedly reactivated his access to the hospitals electronic records system in April 2023. He is accused of illicitly obtaining patient names, treatment codes, and attending physician details, which he then shared with conservative activist Christopher Rufo. Rufo, known for his hardline stance against transgender rights, used the information to publish an expose claiming the hospital continued to provide gender-affirming care for minors despite a public announcement to halt such services.

The indictment alleges Haim accessed this sensitive information under false pretenses and with malicious intent, aiming to harm Texas Childrens Hospital.

Haims actions followed a 2022 opinion from Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, labeling gender-affirming care for minors as a form of child abuse . Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican , subsequently directed the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services to investigate parents seeking such care for their children. In response, Texas Childrens Hospital announced it would pause all gender-affirming services for minors to comply with these directives and protect its staff and patients from potential legal consequences.

Despite the hospitals public stance, Haim claims they secretly continued these services.

According to the Department of Justice, Haim could face up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine if convicted on all counts. According to court records , Haim was released from custody on a $10,000 unsecured bond.

Haims defense team argues that he acted as a whistleblower, fulfilling his duty as a mandatory reporter of child abuse. His attorney, Marcella Burke, contends that the indictment is a politically motivated attempt to silence those who stand up for vulnerable populations, reports Houston Public Media. Burke insists Haims actions were driven by a moral obligation to protect children, not malicious intent.

All major U.S. medical associations have endorsed gender-affirming care treatment for minors with gender dysphoria.

Executive director and founder of the Rainbow Youth Project USA Lance Preston told The Advocate that Haims alleged actions have had dire consequences for young people who have sought mental health support since the privacy betrayal.

We have received countless calls where families are again not trusting mental health providers in Texas due to fear of records being released, Preston said. This same fearwas a big deal when Paxton was seeking to charge families with child abuse and report them to CPS. Families are asking if they can see a [mental health care] provider in another state. Its a problem.

Editors note: This article was updated to include remarks from Lance Preston.


CIUDAD JUAREZ  National Guard members on the Texas-Mexico border have added pepper ball guns to their arsenal, firing at migrants who are gathering on the U.S. side of the Rio Grande or trying to break through the tangle of concertina wire strung along the border.

Migrants interviewed in Mexico say theyve been shot by the rounds, which leave welts and bruises. Its the latest escalation by Texas at the southern border through Gov. Greg Abbotts multibillion-dollar initiative, Operation Lone Star.

Death, drugs and a disbanded unit: How the Guards Mexico border mission fell apart

The state has deployed thousands of National Guard members to patrol the border since the initiative began in March 2021. The pepper ball launchers, which shoot munitions containing a chemical that causes irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, are a new addition.

The weapons resemble paintball guns. Theyre powered by a carbon dioxide cartridge and can hold about 180 rounds, according to a video recently posted on the official Operation Lone Star YouTube page and later shared by the governors office. The goal is to get all National Guard members certified in using the weapon.

Weve had some instances where we have caught migrants or members of the cartel cutting the c-wire and trying to send people through, Spc. Aiden Hogan says in the video, referring to the concertina wire the state has deployed along parts of the border. He doesnt say how they identify the targets as members of cartels. Weve been able to send them back with deploying the pepper ball launcher.

The balls are to be shot in the general direction of migrants, not directly at them, to break up groups and deter them, according to the video. But migrants interviewed by The Texas Tribune said some people have been hit. And people who help migrants at the border say they are worried about the continued escalation of tactics by state forces.

On an early weekday morning in May, a few hundred migrants said they were sleeping on the Mexican side of the Rio Grande when National Guard soldiers on the American side fired pepper balls.

The migrants, some of whom had been camping for several days waiting to cross through concertina wire, said they fled from the riverbank, attempting not to breathe in the irritant.

A migrant woman, who declined to be identified out of fear that soldiers would retaliate against her, shared a video of the aftermath that showed her coughing while her daughter held onto her, while a boy standing nearby has red streaks on his face. The woman said one of the projectiles hit her daughter in the head.

Look how they left the boy, with tears, a man is heard saying. Look how they left the little girl too, they also got her mom.

Nicolas Gonzalez, a 46-year-old Colombian migrant in the group, pointed to small bruises near his elbow and hand, which he said were caused by the pepper balls.

They have no respect for us, they dont care that theres pregnant women or children here, he said. They treat us worse than animals, like they are hunting us down.

Gil Kerlikowske, former commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection who oversaw the implementation of the same technology at the agency amid scrutiny over agents use of force, said the pepper balls can do serious damage to people.

Texas Guardsmen spied on migrants via WhatsApp, mishandled secret docs

In one high-profile incident, a young woman in Boston died when she was shot in the eye with a pepper ball by police trying to control a crowd gathered around Fenway Park to celebrate a Red Sox playoff victory.

Theyre not really nonlethal, Kerlikowske said. No one should just write this off as well, you know, an irritant. They can be very dangerous.

Using the pepper ball launchers requires a lot of training and an understanding of the dangers the weapon can pose, Kerlikowske said.

Kerlikowske, who has also led police departments in Seattle, Buffalo and Florida, said police officers are not going to use tear gas without having emergency medical personnel standing by available to help someone if they are injured.

Asked for comment for this story, a spokesperson for Abbott defended the border mission without directly addressing the use of pepper balls.

Migrants wait to cross concertina wire guarded by Texas National Guard soldiers along the U.S.-Mexico border in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on May 27, 2024. Some experts are concerned that the National Guard is preventing people from legally seeking asylum. (Paul Ratje/The Texas Tribune)

Texas is utilizing every tool and strategy to respond to this ongoing border crisis, as President Bidens reckless open border policies invite record high levels of illegal immigrants, criminals, and deadly drugs like fentanyl into our country, said Andrew Mahaleris, the spokesperson.

Last week, Major General Thomas M. Suelzer, leader of the Guard, told a Texas Senate committee that soldiers are trained to hit an inanimate object so the pepper ball ruptures.

We specifically train them: Do not shoot directly at an individual because if hit in the wrong place, it can cause serious bodily injury, Suelzer testified.

The addition of the launchers comes as troops have experienced an increase in aggression from migrants, Suelzer said, including a soldier who was recently bitten and another who was elbowed repeatedly.

National Guard soldiers can use force to defend themselves or others, Suelzer told lawmakers. As a situation unfolds, troops are trained to first announce themselves or clearly show there is an authority present. Following that, they are to try persuading someone with words  saying, please stop, Suelzer said. If the situation escalates, force enters the equation, he said.

It is primarily used to stop a breaching of the barrier so theres already been an illegal crossing, people are now crawling through the concertina wire field and we are saying go back and they are not doing it, Suelzer said. Now theres noncompliance.

But among advocates and people who work with migrants along the border, the use of force is alarming.

Alan Lizarraga of the Border Network for Human Rights, an El Paso-based immigrant rights group, said that Abbotts Operation Lone Star is putting families at risk.

Weve been really concerned with how this is escalating and how this is playing out on the ground, he said.

Brian Elmore is an emergency medicine doctor in El Paso who helps coordinate medical help for migrants. In recent weeks, he said hes treated migrants with injuries  bruises, fractures, muscle strains  that migrants said were caused by Texas National Guard members and in some instances Mexican authorities.

Elmore said he had not witnessed Guard members shooting at migrants or pushing them into the dry riverbank, as migrants have claimed over the last two months, but that the injuries hes helped treat were consistent with those that would be caused by such use of force.

Ive never seen so much desperation in my life, he said.

Dr. Brian Elmore of Clinica Hope, which gives medical care, food and water to migrants who are waiting to cross the border along the U.S.-Mexico border, speaks to migrants requesting medical attention in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on June 1, 2024. Elmore is an emergency medical physician at University Medical Center Hospital in El Paso and said he often sees migrants who have been injured on the border. (Paul Ratje/The Texas Tribune)

Adam Isacson, a regional security expert at the Washington Office on Latin America, said he is concerned the National Guard is keeping out people who are seeking safety and violating the due process for asylum seekers. Under federal law, anyone who entered the country  even those who crossed the border illegally  have a right to request asylum.

Turning away someone who is asking for refuge is called refoulment and international law regards it to be a serious human rights violation, he said.

The new strategy is being implemented amid tensions between Texas and the federal government as Texas state troopers and National Guard have flooded areas of the border under Operation Lone Star, launched in March 2021. A new law that would let Texas police arrest people suspected of having entered the country illegally, historically the jurisdiction of federal authorities, remains tied up in courts after the Department of Justice sued Texas to stop it from going into effect.

The Justice Department also sued Texas last year over the implementation of a floating barrier on the Rio Grande near Eagle Pass.

Rodolfo Rubio Salas, an immigration professor at El Colegio de Chihuahua in Ciudad Juarez, said the Mexican government needs to investigate the Texas National Guards tactics. He added that Mexican journalists and advocacy groups have reported cases of migrants being injured but the Mexican government hasnt done anything about it.

I find the tactics used by the Texas National Guard reprehensible, he said. I believe that the main focus should be on reporting and raising our voice diplomatically about abuses of power, improper use of force, and violation of the rights of migrants.

Eduardo Rojas, legal strategy coordinator for Fundacion para la Justicia, a human rights advocacy group in Mexico City, said Mexicos government needs to step up and protect migrants from any force the Texas National Guard is using to deter migrants  especially if the projectiles fired by soldiers are crossing the border.

If the [pepper ball] bullets cross into Mexican territory, it can be considered a violation of Mexicos national sovereignty, he said.

After a Guard member shot and wounded a man who was exercising across the border last year, Mexican authorities said they contacted senior officials from the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Rangers to condemn the Guard members action.

That shooting followed another of a migrant last year, on the Texas side near McAllen, the first reported shooting by a Guard member posted at the border through Operation Lone Star. The migrant was shot in the shoulder and taken to a hospital for evaluation and treatment.

This story is part of an ongoing collaboration with FRONTLINE (PBS). It is supported through FRONTLINEs Local Journalism Initiative, which is funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Texas National Guard is shooting pepper balls to deter migrants at the border was first published by The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans  and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues. Learn more at texastribune.org.

Sign up for The Brief, The Texas Tribunes daily newsletter that keeps readers up to speed on the most essential Texas news.
Texas Megachurch pastor who sat on Trump faith board resigns after admitting molesting girl, 12, in the 1980s

Texas Megachurch pastor who sat on Trump faith board resigns after admitting molesting girl, 12, in the 1980s

Dallas megachurch pastor Robert Morris has resigned after admitting having inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in the 1980s, after a woman accused him of molesting her when she was 12 years old.

Gateway Churchs board of elders said in a statement, released on Tuesday, that theyd accepted the resignation from Morris, a senior pastor and a former member of Donald Trumps faith advisory board.

The board said it had hired a law firm to to conduct an independent review to make sure they have a complete understanding of the events from 1982 to 1987.

The pastors accuser Cindy Cemishire, previously told WFAA that Morris began abusing her on Christmas Day in 1982 when she was 12 years old. The pair had met when he was a traveling preacher and began preaching at her familys church in Oklahoma.

She said Morris and his wife and young son became close to her family and that he was staying at her house in 1982 when he asked her to come to his room. He told her to lay on his bed and then began touching her inappropriately, said Clemishire, now 52.

Gateway Churchs board of elders said in a statement, released onTuesday, that theyd accepted senior pastor Robert Morris resignation (Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Clemishire said the abuse continued until 1987, when she told her parents.

In a previous statement, Morris admitted the innapropriate sexual behaviour but insisted that he had not had intercourse with the young girl.

When I was in my early twenties, I was involved in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in a home where I was staying. It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong, he said.

The board said that before Friday, they did not have all of the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse.

They said that their understanding of the extramarital relationship that Morris had discussed many times throughout his ministry was not that it was abuse of a 12-year-old child.

In his previous statement, Morris said the family forgave him when the situation was brought to light, at which point he began receiving counseling.

In March of 1987, this situation was brought to light, and it was confessed and repented of. I submitted myself to the Elders of Shady Grove Church and the young ladys father.

They asked me to step out of ministry and receive counseling and freedom ministry, which I did. Since that time, I have walked in purity and accountability in this area, Morris said in his statement, adding he and his wife met with the survivor and her family in 1989.

I asked their forgiveness, and they graciously forgave me, he said.

Morris (left) was also a former member of former president Donald Trumps faith advisory board (AFP via Getty Images)

Clemishire told WFAA that though her family forgave him, they never supported Morris returning to the ministry.

I think leaders can get caught up and think its our responsibility to protect God and its not. Our responsibility is to protect the people, she added. God is bigger than all of that.

The church, based in the Dallas suburb of Southlake, was founded by Morris in 2000 and has multiple locations in the area and says over 100,000 people attend each weekend.

Morris, the founding pastor, has been politically active. He was among those on former President Donald Trumps evangelical advisory board. The Gateway Church hosted Trump on its Dallas campus in 2020 for a discussion on race relations and the economy.

Morris son, James Morris, is set to take over his senior pastor duties in 2025, according to the churchs website. The elder Morris will remain a primary speaker on weekends.

Morris confession comes after Dallas pastor Dr Tony Evans, 74, announced he was leaving the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, which he founded in 1976.

Evans, who was the first Black person to earn a doctorate of theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, announced his resignation after he lost the mother of his four children to bile duct cancer in December 2019 and remarried a year later.

He said he had chosen to leave because he had fallen short of the absolute supreme standard of truth he aimed to live due to sin.

He did not specify what the sin entailed, but added: While I have committed no crime, I did not use righteous judgement in my actions.
DALLAS  The pastor of a Texas megachurch has resigned after a woman said he had sexually abused her on multiple occasions in the 1980s, beginning when she was 12.

Gateway Churchs board of elders said in a statement Tuesday that theyd accepted the resignation of Robert Morris, the churchs senior pastor and founder. The board said it had hired a law firm to to conduct an independent review to make sure they have a complete understanding of the events from 1982 to 1987.

The allegations came to light Friday on the religious watchdog blog The Wartburg Watch. Cindy Clemishire, Morris accuser, told The Dallas Morning News in an interview Saturday that she met Morris in 1981, when he was a traveling preacher and began preaching at her familys church in Oklahoma. She said Morris and his wife and young son became close to her family. She said he was staying at her house in 1982 when he asked her to come to his room. He told her to lay on his bed and then began touching her inappropriately, said Clemishire, now 52.

She said the abuse continued for about the next four-and-a-half years. The Associated Press typically does not name people who say they have been sexually assaulted unless they come forward publicly, as Clemishire has done.

When asked about the allegations by The Christian Post, Morris, 62, said in a statement to the publication that when he was in his early 20s he was involved in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady in a home where I was staying.

It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong, he said in the statement. This behavior happened on several occasions over the next few years.

The board said that before Friday, they did not have all of the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse. They said that their understanding of the extramarital relationship that Morris had discussed many times throughout his ministry was not that it was abuse of a 12-year-old child.

The church, based in the Dallas suburb of Southlake, was founded by Morris in 2000 and has multiple locations in the area and says over 100,000 people attend each weekend. Morris, the founding pastor, has been politically active. He was among those on former President Donald Trumps evangelical advisory board.

The church hosted Trump on its Dallas campus in 2020 for a discussion on race relations and the economy.

Morris did not immediately respond Tuesday to a request for comment sent to his email at the church.
OTTAWA, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Canada's second largest airline, the WestJet Group, has cancelled about 40 flights ahead of a possible strike by its aircraft maintenance engineers on Thursday.

WestJet said on its website that about 6,500 travellers have been affected by the decision covering flights on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Calgary-based airline said it has started cancelling and consolidating flights in order to park aircraft in a safe and organized manner.

This action enabled proactive communication with guests and crew to minimize the potential for being stranded and ensure the airline can avoid abandoning aircraft in remote locations, it added.

Some 670 WestJet mechanics, represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), are planning to walk off the job as early as Thursday night after giving a 72-hour strike notice earlier this week.

The decision to cancel flights came as the airline is waiting for a response on behalf of the Canadian Industrial Relations Board to intervene under the Canada Labour Code.

If accepted, this action would refer both WestJet and AMFA to arbitration for a first collective agreement and prevent labour action by either party, WestJet said. 
AUSTIN (KXAN)  On Tuesday, state and community leaders presented the Texas State University Meadows Center with a $500,000 check to help fight water contamination on the Texas coast.

The City of San Marcos applied for community project funding via a federal grant in 2023. This investment will give the research center resources to develop an iTool, which will immediately inform beachgoers on whether the water is safe to swim in.

Coastal resilience is really important, because our world is changing. Were growing in population, were seeing sea levels change, were seeing more wastewater going into water waste. Thats making our beaches less friendly for recreation, Texas State University Executive Director of The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment Dr. Robert Mace told KXAN.

If the levels of fecal coliform are too high in the water, he said it can make people sick.

It becomes a potential health issue, Mace said.

According to Environment America, 90% of Texas beaches had at least one day of unsafe fecal contamination in 2022. That is higher than the national average of 55% that year.

Congressman Greg Casar spoke with KXAN Tuesday and joined community leaders to present the check.

Texas State Universitys Meadows Center receives $500,000 federal investment for research on climate change and water contamination. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)

Texas State Universitys Meadows Center receives $500,000 federal investment for research on climate change and water contamination. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)

Texas State Universitys Meadows Center receives $500,000 federal investment for research on climate change and water contamination. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)

Texas State Universitys Meadows Center receives $500,000 federal investment for research on climate change and water contamination. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)

Texas State Universitys Meadows Center receives $500,000 federal investment for research on climate change and water contamination. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)

Texas State Universitys Meadows Center receives $500,000 federal investment for research on climate change and water contamination. (KXAN Photo/Todd Bailey)

I grew up in Texas loving to go get in the water, he said. Unfortunately, in recent years, were seeing more and more beaches have to close, because theyre too dangerous for people to swim in them. Were seeing more days where you could get sick swimming in that water. We need to get rid of that. We need to make sure that our Texas beaches are clean  both on the coast and in the water  and thats why were supporting this project. Because we want everyday Texans to feel safe for them to go get in clean water and cool off.

In addition to researching water contamination, the center is also looking at water resources across the state and looking at environmental aspects, Mace 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 KXAN Austin.
Councilwoman Laura Pastor released internal text messages that show Phoenix staff told Mayor Kate Gallego about plans to name a downtown transit hub after the late U.S. Rep. Ed Pastor before she asked to name it for U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton.

The messages were included as part of an application from Verma Pastor that sought to name the downtown transit center, which is under construction, for Ed Pastor, her husband and a former congressman who focused on supporting mass transit in Phoenix.

The messages, released Monday, show for the first time that the mayor knowingly cut off the Ed Pastor proposal by asking council members to name the station for Stanton before they knew about city staff's plans to name it for Ed Pastor.

Laura Pastor is the daughter of Ed Pastor.

The revelation is the latest chapter in a feud that erupted last month over naming the downtown transit hub at Central Avenue and Van Buren Street.

In May, the mayor asked Councilmembers Carlos Galindo-Elvira, Jim Waring and Debra Stark to sign a letter suggesting the city launch a process to name the downtown light rail transit center after Congressman Stanton, the former mayor of Phoenix.

When Councilmember Laura Pastor and several Pastor family members fiercely opposed the Stanton naming proposal, contending the city already had promised to name it for Ed Pastor, multiple council members said they had never been made aware of the idea.

Deputy City Manager Mario Paniagua in 2022.

Deputy City Manager Mario Paniagua pushed back slightly against the Pastor family's claim, saying there never was a formal commitment. But he acknowledged preliminary, informal discussions took place.

Despite fierce opposition from Councilmembers Pastor and Betty Guardado, plus several Pastor family members, the request passed 7-2, with Councilmembers Ann O'Brien, Kevin Robinson and Kesha Hodge Washington supporting the Stanton name. Their vote did not finalize the naming but rather sent a proposal to the Heritage Commission for consideration.

A spokesperson for the mayor did not dispute the text messages that showed Gallego was aware of Paniagua's plans to begin naming the downtown hub after Ed Pastor.

Instead, when asked why the mayor moved forward with the Stanton naming proposal despite being aware of Paniagua's plans, Communications Director Arielle Devorah said Gallego's request was months in the making.

Gallego's office first approached Stanton in the spring with the idea, Devorah said. Stark and Waring have previously confirmed this with The Republic.

Devorah also said Gallego was concerned Pastor acted improperly.

"The mayor was troubled to learn that Councilwoman Pastor had worked with staff to name a prominent building for her family. It felt deeply inappropriate to do that work in secret and without consulting her colleagues," she told The Arizona Republic in an email Tuesday.

The mayor previously said she had first thought of naming the downtown transit hub for Stanton after the death of former Phoenix Mayor Thelda Williams. The city named the light rail station near the old Metrocenter mall after Williams, but she died days before the unveiling.

Laura Pastor is on the Phoenix City Council representing District 4. She has served on the Phoenix City Council since 2014.

Pastor has previously denied any conflict of interest and said such accusations are a "red herring."

On Tuesday, Pastor said the mayor "bypassed the process to gain personal, political favor with a sitting congressman."

She denied any wrongdoing, pointed the finger at Gallego and said the text messages speak for themselves.

"It was she that worked under the radar. ... If Mayor Kate Gallego had followed the mandated process, city staffers would have provided my colleagues with briefings and the information regarding the history of light rail in Arizona," Pastor said.

The text messages show Paniagua texting Councilwoman Pastor.

He says, "I let the mayor know that I was planning to bring a request to the Heritage Commission to transfer the name from the existing Ed Pastor Transit Center to the new central station. The conversation only included me and her."

Other text messages show Paniagua and City Manager Jeff Barton confirming Councilman Galindo-Elvira was not made aware of the Pastor-naming proposal before the mayor made her request.

Councilman Galindo-Elvira's support for the proposal was the subject of fierce scrutiny by the Pastor family, who believed he should have stood up for Ed Pastor given his employment at Chicanos por la Causa, an organization that supports naming the station for Ed Pastor.

Verma Pastor, the mother of Laura Pastor, serves on the CPLC board and called the organization over the matter. Galindo-Elvira abstained from the vote, although Phoenix City Code bans abstention, so his vote was counted in the affirmative.

The Republic reached out to councilmembers who signed the mayor's letter that triggered the Stanton naming request.

Councilman Jim Waring told The Republic Tuesday he "did not feel blindsided by the mayor" because she had mentioned other ideas were circulating for what to name the station.

Waring added if he had he been informed of plans to transfer the Ed Pastor name first, he would have approved it. He also said he took "no issue" with Councilwoman Pastor advocating for her father.

Galindo-Elvira declined to comment. Stark could not immediately be reached.

On Monday night, Phoenix's Heritage Commission approved the City Council's request to name the hub the "Greg Stanton Central Station."

The 9-2 vote came a month after the commission first paused voting on the request, citing concerns about whether the mayor and council sought adequate public input and whether Stanton himself supported the proposal.

Stanton never directly weighed into the Heritage Commission, although one commission member said he told her directly that he approved.

Stanton also told The Arizona Republic on Tuesday he did not seek the honor but accepted it when the mayor offered it.

Gallego said she was "thrilled" with the commission's decision, noting "Phoenix would not have achieved the incredible growth of our light rail and bus systems" without Stanton's advocacy.

She and other council members have argued his work getting the voter-approved Transportation 2050 fund helped catalyze modern transit in Phoenix.

Verma Pastor's application to name the downtown hub for her husband was not considered. Historic Preservation Officer Helana Ruter told the Pastor family the application could not be accepted because no city department was supporting or sponsoring it.

Ruter also noted that the City Council denied a motion in May to start the process to name the downtown transit center after Ed Pastor.

The City Council is slated to officially cast its final vote on the Stanton naming proposal June 26.

Reporter Taylor Seely covers Phoenix for The Arizona Republic / azcentral.com. Reach her at tseely@arizonarepublic.com or by phone at 480-476-6116.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Texts: Phoenix mayor blocked naming light rail hub for Ed Pastor
Third person arrested in connection with 2023 Lawrence County murder-kidnapping

LAWRENCE COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  The Lawrence County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) says a woman has been arrested in connection with the killing of a Lawrence County man and kidnapping of his wife in 2023.

Chief Deputy Brian Covington said Asia Hubbard was arrested and charged with murder, first-degree kidnapping, first-degree burglary, and second-degree theft of property. She was picked up on grand jury warrants.

Family of teen killed by Athens Police speaks on Fathers Day weekend tragedy

Covington said that Hubbard was arrested for death of Dustin Grimes during a robbery at his home on County Road 245 on Nov. 4, 2023.

Jordan Cesar Hernandez and Auburn Renee Moore were both arrested and charged in connection with that incident. Moore was arrested on Nov. 4 while Hernandez was arrested Nov. 5 after a manhunt that spanned multiple counties.

Hernandez later claimed a third person was involved in the incident during a court hearing.

Authorities said after Grimes was shot, Hernandez and Moore stole from his home and kidnapped his wife.

Willie Mays, the Giants electrifying Say Hey Kid, dies at 93

Police said Grimes wife escaped the two suspects when they attempted to force her to withdraw money from an ATM in the East Lawrence area. She ran to a nearby convenience store and called the police.

Lawrence County deputies and Moulton police officers later arrived at the home, where they discovered Dustin Grimes dead from an apparent gunshot wound.

According to jail records, Hubbard is being held in the Lawrence County Jail on a $130,000 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.
POWAY, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  Thousands of San Diego Gas & Electric customers were reported to be without power Wednesday morning due to outages.

The earliest outage was reported at 8:29 a.m. in the North County communities of Poway, Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo and San Pasqual, according to SDG&Es outage map. As of 9:15 a.m., a total of 3,870 customers remained without service in these communities.

Meanwhile, a smaller outage impacted residents in the San Diego areas of University Heights, North Park and Normal Heights. Only 150 customers were reported be without lights in these communities.

Power has since been restored to all customers.

The cause for the outages has not been determined at this time. The gas and electric company is assessing the issue.

Check SDG&Es regional power outage map for real-time updates.

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.
ITHACA, N.Y. (WETM)  Three people were arrested on Tuesday after Ithaca police responded to an active burglary in a residential area of the city.

According to the Ithaca Police Department, 40-year-old Lawrence Williams, 40-year-old April Cornell, and 43-year-old Brian Carter, all from Ithaca, were arrested after they were found inside a home in the 200 block of Cleveland Ave around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18.

How to stay safe during severe heat

Police said officers responded to the home for the report of a burglary in progress and found the three people inside with stolen items on them and other items bagged up to be taken from the home.

The three individuals were charged with burglary in the second degree, a class C felony, and were processed in Ithaca City Court and taken to the Tompkins County Jail.

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 WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Three injured in stabbing incident at TRAX train station in South Salt Lake

NOTE: The story has been corrected with a more accurate location.

SOUTH SALT LAKE, Utah (ABC4)  Three people were injured after a stabbing at a TRAX train station in South Salt Lake on Tuesday afternoon.

The incident  which Utah Transit Authority said was isolated  occurred around 4:20 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon.

READ NEXT: Built-in dashcam captures alleged road rage, helps police locate suspect

The stabbing occurred on the platform of a TRAX station in South Salt Lake, and Mike Varanakis with the UTA told ABC4.com that there was no delay to TRAX service.

Varanakis confirmed that there were three victims, and said the suspect was taken into custody. Dalan Taylor, Chief of the UTA Police Department, said a UTA officer was on-duty and at the scene at the time of the incident.

We had an officer in the parking lot, doing patrol of the platform. He observed a fight break out at the south end of the platform, Taylor said.

When the officer got to the platform, he realized that a knife was involved in the fight and noticed that three people had been stabbed.

As hes going up to find out what was happening, we had a suspect hop on the train and flee, Taylor said.

The suspect headed southbound on a train, but officers were waiting at the next station and took him into custody, according to Taylor. The suspect  who Taylor confirmed was a juvenile  was said to have surrendered peacefully.

Taylor said one of the victims was an adult and the other two were juveniles. The victims were taken to the hospital by ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries, and Taylor said they are all related.

The incident reportedly began as an argument between the suspect and the adult victim. Two of the victims suffered stab wounds and the third suffered lacerations.

Taylor said paramedics arrived quickly, and medical aid was provided within minutes. The knife has been recovered, and officials said there is no further threat to the public.

When we have an incident like this, obviously we take it serious, Taylor said. We respond quickly and we handle it appropriately.

Investigators are working on the situation to decide what charges will apply, Taylor 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 ABC4 Utah.
Thrift store shopper bought an old-ish vase for $3.99. It turned out to be a priceless 2,000-year-old Mayan artifact

Its the find of the millennium - well, two. It turned out to be much more. The vase dated back 2,000 years, and her

Anna Lee Dozier knack for second-hand shopping near her Washington, DC, home paid off big time. She was in a Maryland thrift store in 2019 and found a vase on the clearance rack for just $3.99.

I saw this vase, and I assumed it was like a tourist reproduction, Dozier told The Independent. It did look old, but I was thinking a 20- or 30-year-old tourist reproduction.

It turned out to be much more. The vase dates back two millennia. Her thrifty find was, in fact, priceless.

Anna Lee Dozier purchased a priceless ancient Mayan artifact, pictured, at a Maryland thrift store for less than $5. (Anna Lee Dozier)

For five years after finding the vase on the clearance rack, Dozier kept the vase at home, she said, not thinking twice about it until she went on a trip Mexicos Museum of Anthropology in January. There, Dozier said she saw vases that reminded her of her thrift store find, so she asked the staff what to do if she might have an artifact.

The museum staff told her to contact the US embassy.

I came back to DC not thinking it could really be something, and I didn't want to bother the embassy, so I googled some professors who were experts on Mayan or Mexican history, she told The Independent. When no one responded, Dozier reached out to the embassy, where staff asked her to send detailed pictures of the vase.

A month later, Dozier learned it was a ceremonial urn from the Mayan community dating anywhere from the year 200 to 800.

After learning she had thrifted a priceless, ancient artifact, Dozier was connected with the Cultural Institute of Mexico, where a ceremony was held Monday for the vases return. It will now make its way to Mexicos Museum of Anthropology for analysis.

Dozier, who works as a human rights advocate for Mexicos Indigenous communities, said she was glad to be a part of the vases journey home.

Human rights extend to culture and history, Dozier said at the event on Monday.

Dozier isnt the first to accidentally stumble upon an ancient artifact.

In 2017, an Italian marble expert discovered a 2,000-year-old Roman mosaic was being used as a coffee table in a Manhattan apartment for the last 50 years.

The apartment owners thought nothing of it when they purchased the table from an Italian noble family in the 1960s, they said at the time. It has since been returned to the Italian government.
The Kuwaiti government will provide $15,000 as compensation to the families of the victims of a tragic fire in the city of Mangaf, located in the southern Ahmadi Governorate. The fire, which occurred on July 12, claimed the lives of 50 people, including 46 Indians.

According to Kuwaiti authorities, the massive blaze at a seven-story building was caused by an electrical short circuit in the guard's room on the ground floor. The building housed 196 migrant workers, most of whom were Indian nationals.

On the orders of the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, each victim's family will receive compensation of $15,000 (approximately Rs 12.5 lakh). This information was reported by the Arab Times on Tuesday. Government sources indicate that the compensation payments will be processed and delivered to the victims' respective embassies for distribution.

The victims included three Filipinos, with the identity of one victim yet to be established. The embassies will ensure that the funds reach the affected families quickly and efficiently. This financial aid is intended to support the bereaved families during this challenging time.

In addition to the Kuwaiti government's compensation, the Indian government has announced Rs 2 lakh for the families of the Indian victims. Furthermore, the Kerala government has pledged Rs 5 lakh in financial assistance to the families of those from the state who perished in the fire. Among the Indian victims, 24 were Malayalis.

Kuwait's public prosecutor has initiated an investigation to uncover the circumstances that led to the deadly fire. A Kuwaiti citizen and several foreigners have been arrested on charges of manslaughter and causing injuries due to negligence in security and safety measures.

Read Posted News Earlier:

Kerala Announces 5-Lakh Aid for Victims of Kuwait Fire; Health Minister to Coordinate Relief Efforts

Tragedy in Kuwait: 41 Dead, 50 Injured in Mangaf Building Fire, Including 10 Indians

Indian Families Mourn as Bodies of 45 Kuwait Fire Victims Return Home
A contentious and closely watched Republican U.S. House primary in Virginia remains too close for any projection, as House Freedom Caucus chair Rep. Bob Good attempts to fend off a challenge from state Sen. John McGuire, who received endorsements from former President Donald Trump. The outcome of the race could signal the power of Trump's endorsement.

Good, who was first elected to the House in 2020, had antagonized the former president by initially endorsing his presidential primary opponent, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Trump then attacked Good -- an effort to take down the candidate he once endorsed, too.

"If he's reelected, Bob Good will stab Virginia in the back, sort of like he did with me," Trump said at a rally for McGuire earlier this week.

MORE: High-stakes House primaries in Virginia show fissures across both parties

PHOTO: Virginia state Sen. John McGuire, a candidate in the Republican primary for the state's 5th Congressional District, speaks to supporters, June 18, 2024, in Lynchburg, Va. (Skip Rowland/AP)

In an election year, many are looking at the close race to see the power of Trump's influence and how his endorsement affected the race.

As of Wednesday morning, it's not yet clear if Trump's plan to replace Good with McGuire has panned out. McGuire, who was also endorsed by former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, has a slim lead over Good by a margin of about 300 votes, according to unofficial election results.

PHOTO: Rep. Bob Good, R-Va., meets with supporters at a primary night election party, June 18, 2024, in Lynchburg, Va. (ABC News)

Good has not conceded. In a post on X late Tuesday night, Good thanked supporters, saying, "The entire DC Swamp was aligned against us with over $10 million in attack ads, but with your help we were able to make this race too close to call."

Good said the campaign will aim to closely follow the vote count "to ensure all the votes are properly counted in the coming days."

"No matter the outcome, you've shown the DC Swamp that you won't back down from standing for what's right. Keep the faith and don't stop fighting now," Good wrote.

MORE: Trump endorses GOP Rep. Bob Good's primary challenger -- a blow to the House Freedom Caucus chair

But McGuire has declared victory in the race, striking a different tone than Good.

"My life is a testament to the fact that America is the greatest country on this planet and I'm so honored to have the chance to serve her again... Folks in the 5th can rest assured that should they elect me in Nov., they will have an effective fighter in Congress who will get the job done for them," McGuire wrote in a thread on X.

"I look forward to working with Trump to beat Joe Biden in November & pass Trump's agenda in Congress. Trump & McGuire will Make America Great Again!"

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump speaks during a rally at Festival Park, June 18, 2024, in Racine, Wis. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Earlier this week, McGuire implied that he thought Good might cheat to win the election or that there could be issues with the election.

"Let's make this too big to rig tomorrow, so we can lock arms, and make it too big to rig, so we win Virginia for President Trump in November so we can get him back in there and make America great again," McGuire said at his rally on Monday.

In a phone interview with ABC News on Tuesday, McGuire said it would be "healthy" to question election results in general when asked about the "too big to rig" comments.

When pressed to share any specific concerns about the primary, McGuire pointed to confusion among voters about who Trump endorsed.

"I was at a Food Lion parking lot the other day, and a woman said, 'Well, who did Trump endorse[you] or Bob Good?' And I said, 'He's endorsed me,'" McGuire said, adding that Good is trying to "trick" voters -- a reference to messaging on Good's website that created some confusion about Trump's endorsement.

Before Trump made his official endorsement of McGuire, Good was touting Trump's endorsement of him in 2022 on his campaign website. The website was then updated to reflect the caveat that Trump hadn't endorsed Good in his 2024 race.

PHOTO: Rep. Bob Good, R-Va., meets with supporters at a primary night election party, June 18, 2024, in Lynchburg, Va. (ABC News)

On Tuesday night, Good eschewed the trappings of a fancy election night hotel ballroom soiree for a gathering with supporters at an Italian restaurant in a strip-mall filled stretch of Lynchburg, Virginia. Inside La Villa, it was subdued, with the restaurant's normal activity blending with the watch party.

When he entered the restaurant over half an hour after polls closed, Good spent his time glad-handing supporters, greeting each table. He hugged and kissed his family, before picking up a family member's baby in a "Babies for Bob" bib to continue the tour.

He spent time sitting, thinking and quietly conferring with his wife. He later left the party without speaking to reporters.

It is possible that the candidate who ends up trailing could request a recount. Virginia does not have automatic recounts. According to Virginia state law, the losing candidate can request a recount if the vote margin is less than 1% of the votes cast. The state pays if the margin is less than 0.5%; the requester pays if it is more than that.

Tight Virginia GOP primary between Good, McGuire a test of Trump's influence originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Several community leaders will join the Orange County Supervisor of Elections to make a major announcement.

The announcement will talk about access to voting in Central Florida.

The meeting will be held at the Orange County Supervisor of Elections Office at 11 a.m.

Read: Scared me to death: Apopka woman finds small alligator hiding in her garage

Channel 9s Phylicia Ashley will be at this mornings news conference.

Watch Eyewitness News at Noon and monitor 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.
'They took a lot of smoke': Firefighters pull women from burning RV on I-79 in Erie County

By chance, two volunteer firefighters lacked some key equipment when they were alerted that two women, one paralyzed and in a wheelchair, were trapped inside a burning motor home on Interstate 79 in southern Erie County.

The firefighters rescued the women  even though the two were not wearing their breathing apparatus, or air packs.

The two firefighters are Nick Kulbacki and Steven Amrhein, both of McKean Hose Co.

They had on their fire jackets and gloves and helmets. But they did not have their air packs when they encountered the burning recreational vehicle that had been headed north on I-79 outside of Edinboro late Tuesday morning.

Two volunteer firefighters rescued two women from a recreational vehicle that caught fire on Interstate 79 in southern Erie County on Tuesday. The RV was towed to Dave's Autow on Edinboro Road in Edinboro.

Kulbacki and Amrhein had been in the area patrolling for brush fires. The brush truck carried no air packs because they are not needed for that kind of work, McKean Hose Co. Chief Scott Haywood said.

Kulbacki and Amrhein still faced the fire.

"They took a lot of smoke," he said.

After ICU stay, firefighter is 'home sleeping'

Haywood said Kulbacki worked through the smoke and got both women out by passing them through windows to Amrhein, who was also dealing with the smoke while stationed outside the RV, a Safari Passage.

Smoke inhalation and other concerns sent both firefighters to UPMC Hamot.

Amrhein was released on Tuesday.

Kulbacki was placed in the intensive care unit. He did not stay long.

"He's home sleeping," Haywood said on Wednesday afternoon.

The two women and the RV's driver also went to UPMC Hamot, according to the Pennsylvania State Police. Their conditions were not immediately available on Wednesday.

Fire halts trio's trip to the Poconos

Three people were in the RV when it caught fire: the driver, his wife and the other woman, who was a passenger and is the couple's friend, Haywood said.

He said the three were driving from Cranesville in western Erie County to the Poconos in eastern Pennsylvania. He said their RV started smoking after it had gotten back on I-79 north after stopping in Edinboro.

The RV started smoking around 10:45 a.m. and caught fire after the driver pulled over to the right shoulder, state police said. The RV was stopped at mile marker 171, in between the Edinboro and McKean exits.

Traffic was halted there for about two hours as firefighters, police and other rescue workers flooded the scene, according to the state Department of Transportation.

Screams poured through the windows, Haywood said: "Help me, help me."

The driver of the RV was using a fire extinguisher on the blaze when Kulbacki and Amrhein arrived, Haywood said.

Kulbacki went inside and pulled one woman out. Then the other. He handed both off to Amrhein.

Fire chief: 'We have to risk our lives'

The RV burned. A mechanical problem is suspected to have started the blaze, state police said.

Fire swept through the interior of a recreational vehicle that burst into flames after it pulled over in the northbound lanes of Interstate 79 in southern Erie County on Tuesday. The RV was towed to Dave's Autow in Edinboro.

The RV now sits outside the garage of Dave's Autow in Edinboro.

It is a charred hulk.

It is also a reminder of the dangers that Kulbacki and Amrhein confronted as they stepped into the fire  with no air packs.

"It is not ideal to go into a burning vehicle without your proper air pack, but not a single one of us would not have done that," Haywood said. "That is what we do. We have to risk our lives to save others."

Contact Ed Palattella at epalattella@timesnews.com or 814-870-1813. Follow him on X @ETNpalattella.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Firefighters rescue women after RV catches fire on I-79 in Erie County
On Juneteenth, the federal holiday that marks the end of slavery in America, the head of the Democratic National Committee is hitting former President Donald Trump for making his most disparaging comments about predominantly Black cities.

Trump is a lot of things but he certainly isnt subtleall of the cities he denigrates have one important thing in common: they all have significant Black populations, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison wrote in a statement to The Daily Beast. Whether its Milwaukee, Philly, Detroit, or Atlanta, Trump isnt just insulting 97 square miles on a map, hes insulting Black communities, Black history, and Black voices.

Hes telling us exactly what he thinks of Black Americans, and were listening, Harrison continued. Thats why when we go to the polls on Nov. 5, were going to vote for someone who respects Black communities, who uplifts Black voices, and who commemorates Black history. Were going to vote for President Joe Biden.

Trump Spins New Theory for Why Jews, Black People Vote Dem

Over the years, Trump has indeed reserved many of his harshest criticisms for cities that are majority or plurality Black, calling them corrupt, disgusting, and like living in Hell. Trump has defended these comments by saying he was only talking about the challenges residents of those cities face and that Black voters were glad he made them.

President Trump is referring to how Democrat policies are failing these blue cities, Team Trump Black Media Director Janiyah Thomas wrote in a statement to The Daily Beast. If you ask the average voter in these cities, they will say that Joe Biden and the Democrats have abandoned their communities and they are desperate for change. Team Trumps outreach to minority communities is a stark contrast to Joe Bidens failing campaign whose only tactic is to gaslight Black voters.

Black voters, who have recently supported Democrats by enormous margins, could swing this years election, and both parties are looking to shore up their support among this key demographic.

Trump may have made an error on that front when he reportedly told a group of Republicans last week that Milwaukee, where the Republican National Convention will take place next month, is a horrible city. Afterwards, The New York Times reported that Trump hadnt even planned to stay in Milwaukee for the convention; until reporters asked, the story alleged, the former president had intended to sleep at Trump International Hotel and Tower in Chicago.

Trump: Black People Like Me Because I Got Indicted

The DNC had a field day with Trumps reported comment, rolling out ten new billboards around Milwaukee that highlighted what he said. The former president, meanwhile, downplayed the reports, saying on TV that he was always planning on staying in Cream City and telling a crowd in Racine, WI, I love Milwaukee. I was the one that picked Milwaukee.

According to Census data, Black residents make up the largest share of Milwaukees population

This isnt the first time the former president has slammed the city. Shortly after losing the 2020 election, Trump namechecked the city, along with others with large Black populations, like Detroit, Philadelphia, and Atlanta, as long known for being politically corrupt!

Some of Trumps most vivid criticisms have targeted the cities with the largest shares of Black residents.

You look at Honduras, Guatemala, all of these different places, Trump said during a 2020 Fox News Town Hall. We have cities that are worsein some cases, far worse. Take a look at Detroit. Take a look at whats happening in Oakland. Take a look at whats happening in Baltimore. And everyone gets upset when I say it. They say, Oh, is that a racist statement? Its not [racist.] Frankly, Black people come up to me and say, Thank you. Thank you, sir, for saying it. They want help. These cities, its like living in hell.

Census data indicates that Detroits population is about 80 percent Black, while Baltimore is about 61 percent Black. Oakland is an exception, at about 22 percent Black.

Trumps Plan Would Send Black Boys School-to-Prison Pipeline into Overdrive

In a 2019 tiff with the late Rep. Elijah Cummings, who represented Baltimore, Trump called the congressmans district a disgusting, rat and rodent infested mess, tweeting about Cummings, If he spent more time in Baltimore, maybe he could help clean up this very dangerous & filthy place.

Those people are living in hell in Baltimore, he added in remarks to reporters days later. They're largely African American. You have a large African American population. And they really appreciate what Im doing, and they've let me know it.

I can tell you Im the least racist person there is in the world, he said on C-SPAN.

His remarks then echoed those he made during his previous campaign. In 2016, Trump said people of color in Americas inner cities were living in hell, part of his pitch to Black Americans that they had little to lose by voting for him.

This time around, Trumps campaign has emphasized the former presidents appeal to Black voters. A recent press release from the campaigns deputy communications director highlighted CNNs reporting that the former president had improved his support among Black voters from 7 percent in 2020 to 21 percent this year.

Trump announced a Black Americans for Trump coalition this weekend. He also spoke at a Black churchto a crowd that included many white attendees.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The Maryland flag flies at half-staff over the State House in Annapolis

The Maryland flag flies at half-staff over the State House in Annapolis on June 3, 2024. File photo by Bryan P. Sears.

The top-earning State House lobbyist from the last half year  a period that covers the most recent General Assembly session  is making history.

According to newly released records from the Maryland State Ethics Commission, which regulates registered lobbyists in the state, Lisa Harris Jones from the firm Harris Jones Malone was the top earner from Nov. 1, 2023, to April 30 of this year.

Harris Jones becomes the first woman and the first person of color to top the earnings list for registered lobbyists in Maryland. She reported billing $2,666,850 for the six-month period. That includes the legislative session, which ran from Jan. 10 to April 8, where a substantial amount of her work took place.

Harris Jones has been among the top five compensated State House lobbyists in Annapolis for more than a decade. But for this reporting period, at least, she vaulted the white men who are the usual leaders  Gerard E. Evans, Timothy Perry and Bruce C. Bereano  to take the top spot. Harris Jones clients this session included data centers, building contractors, insurers and financial firms, gaming interests, the Baltimore Orioles, Baltimore Gas and Electric, and blue chip national corporations like Microsoft, McDonalds, Home Depot and Walmart.

Evans, who has been lobbying for three decades, finished second in earnings from Nov. 1 to April 30, the Ethics Commission list shows, taking in $2,592,333.33. Perry was third, reporting $2,068,045.98 in earnings, and Bereano, who decades ago became the first Annapolis lobbyist ever to earn $1 million in a year, was fourth with $1,828,430 in this cycle.

Four other registered lobbyists disclosed earning more than $1 million during the six-month reporting period: Frank Boston III ($1,740,400); Michael Johansen ($1,447,645.15); G.S. (Steve) Proctor ($1,250,949.98) and Delora Ifekauche ($1,006,513.34). Of those four, all but Johansen are Black.

Another dozen registered lobbyists reported earning $500,000 or more from Nov. 1 to April 30.

The post Top-earning lobbyist from legislative session makes history appeared first on Maryland Matters.
A top federal prosecutor handed Sen. Bob Menendez a lifeline at the New Jersey Democrats corruption trial Tuesday, telling the court during cross examination that Menendez never asked or pressured him to act improperly on behalf of a political ally.

Philip Sellinger, now the US attorney for the District of New Jersey, said that in late 2020, he went to Menendez hoping for the senators support in his bid to be nominated to the post. During the conversation, Sellinger testified, Menendez mentioned that Fred Daibes, a New Jersey real estate developer and co-defendant in the case, was being treated unfairly by prosecutors who had indicted him on bank fraud charges.

Sen. Menendez hoped that if I became US attorney, that I would look at (the Daibes case) carefully, Sellinger said.

That testimony came up again Tuesday when Menendez attorney Avi Weitzman pressed Sellinger on the nature of that interaction.

I did not believe that (Menendez) was asking me to do anything other than my official duty, Sellinger, a longtime friend and political supporter of Menendez, told the court. I didnt believe he was asking me to do anything.

At that, Weitzman asked Sellinger if it was fair to say that he didnt ask you to put your thumb on the scales of justice?

Sellinger nodded in agreement.

Now in its sixth week, the trial has shifted its focus from allegations that Menendez, along with his wife, Nadine, accepted bribes from a New Jersey businessman to charges that the senator was part of a corrupt deal involving Daibes and the government of Qatar.

The trial resumed Tuesday following a three-day delay after Daibes tested positive for Covid-19 last week.

The Menendezes, Daibes and Egyptian American businessman Wael Hana are accused of engineering a complex and multifaceted bribery scheme. All four have pleaded not guilty.

Nadine Menendez will be tried separately this summer. A fifth alleged co-conspirator, Jose Uribe, pleaded guilty and testified for the government as a cooperating witness.

Sellinger was not initially recommended by Bob Menendez for the US attorney nomination, a decision prosecutors suggest was tied to his unwillingness to entertain the senators concerns about the Daibes case. Sellinger testified last week that he told Menendez he would have to recuse himself from any issues relating to Daibes because of a past legal entanglement with the developer.

Former Menendez adviser Michael Soliman described the behind-the-scenes push for an alternative to Sellinger in his testimony Tuesday. Ultimately, Soliman said, Menendez decided to recommend then-Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez to the White House. But that choice faced harsh and immediate blowback centered on Suarezs handling of a rape accusation a volunteer for Democratic Gov. Phil Murphys 2017 campaign made against Murphy staffer Al Alvarez. Suarez did not bring charges against Alvarez, whom she had known for more than a decade.

A subsequent probe by then-New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal found that Suarez had not acted inappropriately. (Grewal testified earlier in the trial that Menendez tried to meddle in a separate case, although he too said under cross-examination that the senator did not ask him to put his thumb on the scales of justice.)

Soliman described to the court in excruciating detail his work to fend off critical press reports about Suarez and manage the public perception of Menendez, who was coming under fire for backing her. After a few ham-handed attempts by Suarez to defend herself to local media outlets and, eventually, the Biden administrations refusal to nominate her, Solimon said he and Menendez went searching for a Plan B.

Around that point, in the spring or summer of 2021, Solimon said he had another conversation with Sellinger. This time, Sellinger told Solimon that he would not, after all, need to recuse himself from the Daibes case if he was nominated and confirmed. Sellinger, though, was having difficulty getting an audience with Menendez, so he passed the message along to Solimon, he testified.

If you call Sellinger, Solimon said he told Menendez after the meeting, youll be comfortable with what he says.

With Suarezs chances sunk, Menendez recommended Sellinger for the job he had wanted all along. The White House nominated Sellinger, who was confirmed and took office in December 2021. But in an about-face, Sellinger did recuse himself from the Daibes case.

Solimon told the court that Menendez asked him to find out why Sellinger changed his mind, describing the senator as inquisitive and confused but not angry when told of the decision. Solimon told Menendez he would contact Sellinger, he testified, but never did.

Sellinger and Solimon would, however, eventually get together for a meal. But before they could sit down, Solimon recalled, Sellinger warned him against bringing up any specific, ongoing criminal case, telling him he would have to report anything of the sort to the Justice Department. Solimon said he never raised the Daibes case.

Menendez, after being told about the interaction, expressed some regret, Solimon said.

Im sorry you had to go through that, he told his close aide, then dropped it.

Menendez, though, remained frosty toward Sellinger, who testified that the senator rejected an invitation to his investiture ceremony.

Im going to pass, Menendez said, according to Sellinger, adding: The only thing worse than not having a relationship with the United States attorney is people thinking you have a relationship with the United States attorney  and you dont.

Prosecutors said in court Tuesday morning that they plan to rest their case on June 25. Defense lawyers said they hope to rest their case in time for the jury to be charged by the week of July 8.

There is no court Wednesday for the Juneteenth holiday, and the trial will resume Thursday.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Senior administration officials tell ABC News that top Netanyahu advisers -- Israels national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi and Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer -- were traveling from Israel to Washington to meet with national security adviser Jake Sullivan at the White House on Thursday.

The move comes amid new tensions between the Biden administration and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over a video he made in which he complains that the U.S is blocking arms shipments amid Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza -- a claim the U.S. denies

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant will also meet with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in the coming days.

PHOTO: In this May 22, 2024, file photo, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan speaks during a press briefing at the White House in Washington, D.C. (Leah Millis/Reuters, FILE)

MORE: Biden administration strongly denies Netanyahu's claim US is blocking arms shipments amid war with Hamas

But another high-level meeting focused on Israels security, including the threat from Iran, has been canceled by the U.S., according to administration officials. The U.S. is looking to reschedule it. That is a formal meeting with many people led by Sullivan and Hanegbi.

PHOTO: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a state memorial ceremony for the victims of the 1948 Altalena affair, at Nachalat Yitzhak cemetery in Tel Aviv on June 18, 2024. (Shaul Golan/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

MORE: Israel-Gaza live updates: IDF spokesman says Hamas is an 'idea,' cant be eliminated

While Biden administration officials are saying that that high-level meeting was never fully finalized on the schedule, other sources inside the White House say there was frustration over Netanyahus video and it did affect the decision not to hold the meeting.

Administration officials said that what Netanyahu said in his video is beyond the pale," no other country is supporting Israel more than the U.S. and the U.S. only pausing one shipment of 2,000 pound bombs over concerns the imprecise weapons could cause extensive civilian deaths but that everything else is still flowing.

ABC News' Shannon Crawford contributed to this report.

Top Israel officials to meet with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan Thursday originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Description

You wanna play with the Organ Monk trio this summer? Call a Monk tune at the jam session! Bring your instruments and tell your friends.

Co-presented with KEYED UP!, Therapy Wine Bar 2.0 in Stuyvesant Heights presents the Organ Monk Jam every other Wednesday from 8:30p to 11p. This is an effort to encourage musicians, from the professional to the hobbyist, to come out to play and bring music to our local community.

Led by Gregory Lewis, Organ Monk is primarily known for jazz and blues across a wide variety of their subgenres, and Lewis is especially renowned for specializing in transforming the repertoire of Thelonious Monk for the Hammond organ. We are pleased to announce that our latest record, Organ Monk Going Home (2023), was highlighted in The New York City Jazz Record as a "Best of 2023" and also featured in DownBeat Editors' Picks, where it was awarded 4 out of 5 stars.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Multiple people in Topeka reported receiving an emergency alert Wednesday morning about an armed man wanted for homicides.

The alert, which has been received mostly by T-Mobile customers, is concerning an Arkansas case. Arkansas State Police say they are looking for a man wanted for multiple homicides in Oklahoma and one in Alabama. Police said the homicides stem from carjackings.

Anyone who sees Drake should not approach him and should call 911 immediately, an ASP news release said.

Officials with the Morrilton, Ark., police department said the suspect, 50-year-old Stacy Drake from Birmingham, was seen on surveillance footage at a hotel in Morrilton. Officers also said that Arkansas State Police notified them that the vehicle used in the homicides was parked at the hotel.

According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, Drake was named as a person of interest after authorities found two people dead inside of a business in Gans, Okla., near the Arkansas border.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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These figures are startling for sure, but perhaps they shouldnt be. Weve been conditioned for so long to believe the Conservative Party, as the natural party of government, will always be a major political force.

But that underestimates the almost unique confluence of events conspiring against them this election  from the short campaign effects of the D-Day gaffe and the rise of Reform UK, to the longer-term brand challenges going back to the mini budget and Partygate. Their local election results would have been flashing warning signs.

Our MRP projections  in partnership with Electoral Calculus  estimate that Labour could win 516 seats and the Conservatives be left with just 53 MPs. Perhaps just as remarkably, theyd be fighting out with the Liberal Democrats, on 50 projected seats, to be the Official Opposition. The SNP would drop down to just eight seats. Based on these figures, Labour would be on for a majority of 382.

That would be historic. But this MRP is not out-of-line with what classic national voting intention polls are saying of around a 21-point Labour lead. That speaks to the fact the Prime Minister is spending his time in seats with 15,000+ Conservative majorities.

Lets talk about how we got to these figures. Multi-level regression and post stratification (MRP) is an advanced statistical modelling technique where we can ask voting intention to a large scale (in this case over 17,000) nationally representative survey.

Using the respondents demographic and voting data, we can map out how voting patterns of people like them play out across the country. This then allows us to produce predicted vote shares in each constituency and therefore a likely winner in each seat, based on probability. From there you add up the overall result of the General Election.

What MRPs dont do very well is pick up local factors  such as the level of resource a party puts into them, or an incumbency factor if the MP is particularly well thought of. But they do give a very good sense of how national trends could play out at a local level.

That may be part of the reason weve ended up in a situation where Rishi Sunaks Richmond and Northallerton seat is too close to call, as we have for James Cleverly in Braintree. This would be unprecedented, and emphasises the risk of electoral extinction that the Conservative Party is now having to contemplate.

In our model  with fieldwork completed between 7-18 June  Nigel Farage doesnt pick up Clacton, and the Greens lose Brighton Pavilion, So, its worth restating that more than 100 seats in our model have less than five percentage points between the parties in first and second place. In other words, theyre on a knife edge.

Things can change in campaigns. But if youre the Conservative Party, with postal votes dropping on doormats, you need them to  and fast.

Chris Hopkins is political research director at Savanta UK

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By Renee Maltezou and Jonathan Saul

ATHENS (Reuters) -When a missile fired by Yemen's Houthi Islamists landed near his ship in the Red Sea, Costas Rassias vowed to stop sailing through the perilous waters.

"I froze," said the Greek 34-year-old second class marine engineer, describing the close call. "I weighed what was more important - my life, or a better income?"

As attacks on merchant ships by the Iran-backed Houthis persist, traumatised seafarers are refusing to sail through the Red Sea, according to interviews with more than 15 crew members and shipping industry officials.

That's another staffing headache for an industry already facing a shortage of seafarers worldwide, with ranks having shrunk after COVID kept seafarers on board for months and the war in Ukraine posed dangers in the Black Sea.

"Seafarers are less and less keen to willingly sail through that region and it is becoming a bigger challenge now," an industry source with knowledge of the crisis said.

Houthis first launched drone and missile strikes in the key waterway in November in what they say is solidarity with Palestinian militants in Gaza. In over 70 attacks, they have sunk two vessels, seized another and killed at least three seafarers.

The Greek-owned Tutor coal carrier attacked in the Red Sea on June 12 has sunk, salvagers confirmed on Wednesday. The UK-owned Rubymar sank on March 2.

Container ship sailings through the Red Sea dropped 78% in May compared with a year ago, analysis from logistics platform project44 shows, as companies choose to go around Africa, raising costs and extending voyages.

"My answer is very clear: No," said Rassias, when asked if he would go back again. He is a member of Greece's marine engineers' union PEMEN.

"We urge our members not to give in to pressure, to put their safety and lives first and demand not to work in war zones at any cost."

ROCKETS FLY

Charles Watkins, CEO and clinical psychologist at Mental Health Support Solutions, has met 40 seafarers from two ships that sailed through the Red Sea. Many have experienced trauma and some are considering leaving the trade.

"There can be sleep disturbances, nightmares, they can be easily startled, they can be stressed, they can develop a sudden urge not to eat anything anymore," Watkins said.

Most ships have deployed armed guards on board to help defend crew during potential attacks, but crew themselves are rarely trained or equipped for conflict.

"The majority of merchant ship crews have no military training whatsoever," said John Pavlopoulos, head of Sea Guardian, whose armed guards have made thousands of crossings through the area. "The slightest explosion disconcerts them, stresses them out."

Boris Basenko, Ukrainian captain of the Greek-owned bulk carrier Zografia which was struck by a rocket this year near Yemen, said he doubts he will sail again through the region.

"Rockets fly into my home city every day but I was caught by a rocket a few hundred miles away" from Ukraine, he said. "Almost everyone from my crew at that time did not want to return to the Red Sea."

Johnrhez Balboa, a 26-year-old engine cadet from the Philippines on his first nine-month stint at sea, was aboard the first vessel to pass through the Red Sea last December after another ship, the Galaxy Leader, was hijacked. His crew maintained a "pirate watch", scanning the water for hijackers.

"We were afraid and anxious," he said "Guarding our ship was scary."

Mariners have support if they choose not to go, said John Canias, head of maritime operations with the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), the leading seafarer's union.

The nearly 360,000 seafarers covered by an ITF agreement worldwide have the contractual right to refuse to sail in designated war zones and demand repatriation at the shipowner's expense. In April, one such zone in the Red Sea, known as a "warlike operations area", was expanded at ITF's request, Canias said.

"Many shipowners are now more reluctant to sail through the area as they simply dont want to put seafarers lives on the line," he said.

GROWING DEMAND

Over 80% of global trade is shipped by sea and an estimated 1.8 million seafarers service ships, with growing shortages of qualified mariners.

Some 18,000 additional officers would need to join each year to meet demand, according to the most recent seafarer workforce report published in 2021. Thousands of higher level officers are needed to service the 80,000-strong ocean-going fleet.

Some Greek captains have already requested to be transferred to other vessels to avoid the Red Sea, a union official said. At least four Greek companies have in recent months decided not to cross the area, company officials said.

"We don't like to profit off the pain of others. We won't send our ships there," said George Logothetis, executive chairman of privately owned U.S.-headquartered Libra Group.

Other companies are reviewing each case separately, weighing the risks for crews and vessels.

Rene Kofod-Olsen, CEO of V.Group, one of the worlds biggest ship management and crewing companies, said their managed fleet's crossings have declined since the beginning of the conflict.

He said in the instances where their ship owner clients have opted to sail through, "we give our seafarers the opportunity to not proceed and we can change crew."

(Reporting by Renee Maltezou and Jonathan Saul; Additional reporting by Neil Jerome Morales in Manila and Yannis Souliotis in Athens Editing by Edward McAllister and Peter Graff)
Travis County DA asks for changes to state law after sex assault cases dismissed

TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN)  Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza is asking for changes to state law in prosecuting sexual assault cases after his office dismissed charges Tuesday against two suspects connected with 2020 cases.

Garza said his office believes the victims in the cases were sexually assaulted but Texas law does not meet his offices understanding of sexual assault and creates a burden that is very difficult to meet.

The sexual assault charges were dismissed Tuesday for insufficient evidence, according to court documents.

As a result, we are unable to move forward at this time, Garza said in a statement. Working on this case has highlighted for our office the very real problems that the Texas Sex Assault Statute creates when trying to bring justice to victims. We are committed to working to change that.

In turn, Garza is asking for elected leaders to create reforms that protect sexual assault survivors.

Charlie Baird, an attorney for one of the suspects, said his client is pleased to close the most unfortunate chapter of his life.

We thank Jose Garza and the Travis County District Attorneys Office for their careful review of this case, and respecting their duty to seek justice, not convictions, Baird said in part. The dismissal of this case represents justice. It was worth the wait.

KXAN has reached out to Garzas office for more information on how these cases do not meet the threshold to prosecute.

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.
What troops need to know about military stores in 2024

Two benefits that help those in the military community stretch their dollars are commissaries and exchanges.

Commissaries are on-base stores that sell discounted groceries to authorized customers. Exchanges are on-base stores (with an online component) that sell a variety of items ranging from clothing to shoes, toys, furniture, home appliances and electronics. They also have on-base gas stations and stores that sell alcoholic beverages.

Over the past few years, eligibility to shop at military commissaries and exchanges has expanded to include more people in the military community. As always, it pays to compare prices between military stores and other stores.

Commissaries

Those eligible to use the commissary include active duty, Guard and Reserve members, military retirees, Medal of Honor recipients, and their authorized family members. These shoppers have military-issued IDs. In a recent change, commissary employees can also shop at the stories, but not their family members. Military and Coast Guard civilian employees in the U.S. and on service agreements overseas are also authorized shoppers.

In 2020, eligibility was expanded to veterans with service-connected disabilities, Purple Heart recipients, former prisoners of war, and primary family caregivers of eligible veterans enrolled under the VAs Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. Eligible veterans can use their veterans health ID card, or VHIC, to gain access to the installation and to shop. Spouses and other family members arent allowed to shop, though they are allowed to come into the stores with the veteran. Family caregivers who qualify for the benefit will have access to a memo at VA.gov which can be used for entry, along with a drivers license, passport or other authorized form of ID.

Payment accepted: Cash, personal checks, travelers checks, money orders, debit cards, Military Star card, American Express, MasterCard, Visa and Discover credit cards, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Women, Infants and Children (WIC), American Red Cross Disbursing Orders, commissary gift cards and coupons.

Whats new

In an effort to help service members and families deal with rising food costs, the Defense Department has invested in commissaries to decrease the price of most grocery items by about 3 to 5%. This effort is focused particularly on food staples like bread, milk, eggs and other items. Officials aim to increase overall commissary savings to 25%, compared to stores outside the gate. Before the extra funding, the overall savings were an average of 22%. Customers also pay a 5% surcharge which is used to cover construction costs and other needs.

Officials have taken other steps to boost the benefit, such as expanding hours of operation. That includes 56 stores that have converted from six- to seven-day operations.

Click2Go: The commissary agency finished rolling out its Click2Go program to all commissaries worldwide in the fall of 2021. Customers choose their items online, select a pickup time, and at the appointed time, head to the Click2Go parking spaces where commissary employees bring their groceries to their car and finish the transaction.

Doorstep delivery: As part of the Click2Go program, commissary officials have been testing doorstep delivery at eight locations in the continental U.S. where authorized shoppers who live within 20 miles can order groceries to be delivered. The delivery fee has been increased, from about $4 previously. Its set by the contractor providing the delivery service, and depends on the miles from the commissary. For example, at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, the delivery fee is $15.99 for those within a one- to five-mile driving radius; and $29.99 for those within 16 to 20 miles. Thats in addition to tips customers might provide for the delivery driver. As of this writing, the future of the doorstep delivery isnt clear, although commissary officials have said theyre working to expand the program and offer it at more locations.

Sales restrictions: A limited number of commissaries  26  sell beer and wine. Commissaries do sell tobacco in stores on Army and Air Force bases. DOD policy is that tobacco cant be sold at a discount greater than 5% below the lowest competitor in the local area.

Rules on who can use overseas commissaries are affected by status-of-forces agreements between host nations and the U.S. The exact terms vary by country, and individuals should check with the local U.S. military command or installation they plan to visit before they travel.

Most commissaries have evening and weekend hours. To find a store, and get information such as hours and directions, go to the commissary website and click on Store Locator.

Exchanges

Exchanges are the militarys version of department stores, selling discounted brand-name goods from civilian companies, as well as their own private label items. There is no sales tax.

There are four exchange systems: The Navy Exchange Service Command; the Marine Corps Exchange system; Coast Guard Exchange system; and Army and Air Force Exchange Service, also known as The Exchange or AAFES. Eligible exchange shoppers can shop at any of the stores, regardless of the service branch, including their online stores at shopmyexchange.com, mynavyexchange.com, mymcx.com and shopcgx.com.

Stores support themselves almost completely through their sales income. All profits are used to fund military Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs, and to build or renovate stores.

Eligible shoppers include all ranks of active duty, retired, National Guard and Reserve members and their families, Medal of Honor recipients, and their families, surviving spouses and former spouses.

In 2021, defense officials expanded U.S. exchange shopping eligibility to DOD and Coast Guard civilians.

In 2020, the exchange benefit was authorized by law for all veterans with VA service-connected disability ratings; Purple Heart recipients; veterans who are former prisoners of war; and primary family caregivers of eligible veterans under the VA caregiver program.

All honorably discharged veterans can shop online at the exchanges. The Veterans Online Shopping Benefit does not grant on-installation access, unless the veteran falls into another category, such as having a VA service-connected disability rating.

Restrictions: Overseas stores offer many U.S. products that may be difficult to find otherwise. Commands often impose shopping restrictions to limit the sale of U.S. goods on the illegal market.

Stateside and overseas exchanges accept MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover credit cards. Exchanges also offer their own credit plan through the joint-exchange Military STAR Card.

Whats new

On Jan. 1, AAFES outlets stopped selling alcohol late at night. No AAFES outlet can sell alcohol between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 a.m. Operating hours depend on the location. The policy aligns with other military exchanges policies that prohibit sales of alcohol after 10 p.m.

Read more from the 2024 Pay and Benefits Guide here.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.  Tropical Storm Alberto, the first named storm of the 2024 hurricane season, has formed in the Gulf of Mexico and is headed for the coast of Mexico.

As of 5 p.m. Eastern time Wednesday, the storm was 305 miles south-southeast of Brownsville, Texas, traveling west-southwest at 9 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph.

Separate from Alberto, forecasters also are watching two other potential systems, one in the Gulf, and one east of the Bahamas, which could affect Florida.

Forecasters expect Alberto to strengthen slightly Wednesday or Wednesday night before making landfall sometime early Thursday morning, south of the U.S. border with Mexico.

Once inland, the storm should weaken quickly, and likely dissipate over Mexico on Thursday or Thursday night.

Alberto is a large, slow-moving tropical storm, with tropical-storm-force winds extending outward up to 415 miles north of the center.

The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning that stretches 400 or so miles, from the Mexico border north along the Gulf Coast to near Houston.

On Wednesday morning, the storm was causing coastal flooding near Galveston, Texas, 500 miles away from its likely landfall in Mexico. Storm surge there is expected to reach 2 to 4 feet, depending on tide. There was even some street flooding in Louisiana.

Forecasters urged people to not focus solely on the storms forecast track.

The hurricane center has expanded the tropical storm warning north, to San Luis Pass near Houston.

The disturbance is very large with rainfall, coastal flooding, and wind impacts likely to occur far from the center along the coasts of Texas and northeastern Mexico, the hurricane center said.

Inland in Mexico and South Texas, rainfall could be significant and potentially dangerous, given the mountainous terrain in some of the region.

Rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches across northeast Mexico into South Texas are possible, with maximum totals of 15 inches. Flash flooding and mudslides are potential hazards.

Additional systems

As of 2 p.m. Wednesday, a disturbance in the same area of the Gulf of Mexico as Alberto had a 30% chance of forming in the next seven days. It is expected to move slowly northwest and develop over the southwestern Gulf over the weekend.

Meanwhile, forecasters are watching an area of storminess several hundred miles east of the central Bahamas that could approach the southern U.S. East Coast, potentially including Florida, late this week.

It has a 20% chance of development over the next two days, with some slow development possible thereafter while the system moves westward or west-northwestward. Forecasters expect the system to reach the east coast by Friday.

The system is likely to stay north of South Florida, and impact coastal areas farther up the coast.

The 2024 hurricane season, which officially began June 1, is expected to be extremely active. Mondays watch was the first of the 2024 hurricane season, which forecasters say will be a strong one.

In its annual May outlook, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said that the 2024 hurricane season has an 85% chance of being above normal, with 17 to 25 named storms with minimum sustained winds of 39 mph, and eight to 13 hurricanes. An average year has 14 named storms and seven hurricanes.

In addition, NOAA has forecast four to seven major hurricanes for 2024, meaning those that are Category 3 or above.

Experts at Colorado State University stated in their 2024 forecast that the U.S. East Coast, including Florida, had a 34% chance of a major hurricane making landfall this year. The average from 1880-2020 was 21%.

Forecasters say that the record-warm water temperatures that now cover much of the Atlantic Ocean will continue into peak hurricane season from August to October. That warm water fuels hurricanes. By early June, the tropical Atlantic was already as hot as it usually is in mid-August  peak hurricane season.

Hurricane season officially ends Nov. 30.

_____

(Sun Sentinel staff writer Robin Webb contributed to this report.)

_____
A tropical storm will likely form in the gulf. Here's what it may mean for Corpus Christi.

A tropical storm warning has been issued for Corpus Christi, as well as a large swath of coastal South Texas counties as a disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico reaches an 80% chance of formation by Wednesday, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Increased predicted rainfall | Updated 5:40 p.m.

The local office of the National Weather Service has bumped up predicted rain amounts along the coast.

It was initially forecast to be an estimated six- to eight inches.

A new forecast issued Tuesday evening on social media has increased it to a predicted eight- to 10 inches of rain through Thursday.

North Beach flooding | Updated 4:50 p.m.

Water has begun to make its way onto multiple streets on North Beach.

Located off the Corpus Christi Bay, the area frequently floods with high tides.

In an email, city of Corpus Christi officials listed the following roads as closed:

North Shoreline Boulevard, from Coastal Avenue to Bridgeport Avenue

Coastal Avenue, from North Shoreline Boulevard to Surfside Boulevard

Bridgeport Avenue, from North Shoreline Boulevard to Surfside Boulevard

Breakwater Avenue, North Shoreline Boulevard to Surfside Boulevard

In this photo contributed by the city of Corpus Christi, road crews set up orange traffic barrels along areas of North Beach experiencing the beginnings of storm surge Tuesday afternoon.

Traffic on some of the other roads on North Beach have been temporarily reconfigured for traffic.

According to the email, those that have been converted from one-way to two-way include:

Surfside Boulevard, from Coastal Avenue to Pearl Avenue

Pearl Avenue, from Pearl Avenue to North Shoreline Boulevard

North Shoreline Boulevard, from Pearl Avenue to Bridgeport Avenue

NWS elaborates on threats faced in tropical storm warning | Updated 4:30 p.m.

In posts on the local National Weather Service social media, officials broke down some of the more specific threats that could be faced by much of the South Texas coast, including Corpus Christi, under the tropical storm warning.

They are intended to alert residents to prepare for the possibilities associated with the weather conditions.

According to NWS fact sheets on X:

Wind: 35 to 45 miles per hour, with potentially stronger gusts

Speeds may be strong enough to damage weaker structures  such as sheds and awnings  while travel may become hazardous due to debris blown into streets and from strong winds on more elevated roadways.

There is also a 2% chance of tornadoes when rain bands move on shore, said Cory Mottice, warning coordination meteorologist, in a Facebook live.

Water: Six to eight inches generally, with potential of 15 inches of rain in some places

Flooding water may rise enough to potentially enter some buildings, according to one of the NWS posts.

Rivers and streams may quickly overflow in multiple places, it states. Streams, canals and ditches may become dangerous rivers.

Oso Creek is projected to rise beginning Wednesday and reach a moderate flood stage of about 23 feet Thursday, according to an NWS graphic. It is currently less than seven feet.

North Beach roads, gulf beach roads and jetty closures | Updated 2:30 p.m.

City of Corpus Christi beach access roads remain open with the exception of Access Road 3A where a hole that has formed at the entrance of beach, according to a memo sent by City Manager Peter Zanoni to the City Council.

Also closing is the gate to the Packery Channel Jetty walkway, where conditions are deteriorating, he wrote.

Beachgoers walk toward Access Road 6 on North Padre Island as waves and storm clouds surge along the coast.

On North Beach, city crews are placing "traffic control devices to close roads already inundated with water surges from the Bay," Zanoni wrote.

In a Facebook message reposted by the local NWS, officials with Padre Island National Seashore wrote that closures were also underway at the national park.

We have temporarily closed South Beach to vehicle traffic," reads the message. "Minor coastal flooding has already begun and is expected to increase with up to 3 feet of beach inundation expected through Thursday.

City of Corpus Christi increases emergency level | Updated 10:30 a.m.

The city of Corpus Christi has elevated its emergency level from a level 4 to level 3, according to a Tuesday morning message from City Manager Peter Zanoni to the City Council.

The following are the city's emergency levels, according to his message.

"Level 1: an emergency is imminent or has occurred.

Level 2: an emergency exists which is very likely to occur.

Level 3: existence of a situation that may develop into an emergency but not an imminent threat.

Level 4: readiness to respond to any emergency that mat develop or occur."

City preparing for potential flooding

Residents within a broad area, including inland, should monitor the storm, meteorologists have said  and prepare for the potential of power outages, flooding and high winds.

A series of fact sheets on its website show that should a tropical depression or tropical storm develop out of what is presently a disturbance, it is likely to move westward into Mexico.

However, it is anticipated tropical storm conditions will likely reach far into Texas, from about Port OConner down to the U.S.-Mexico border.

The disturbance is quite large with tropical-storm-force winds extending outward up to 290 miles (465 km) to the northeast of the center, states an NHC fact sheet.

Should it reach full development, it would be the first tropical storm of the hurricane season. Its name would be Tropical Storm Alberto.

Corpus Christi

Coastal flooding

A coastal flood warning predicting beach inundation levels as high as three feet is in effect and will continue through Thursday morning, according to messages posted on the local NWS social media site, X.

Early images posted on the local NWS social media show video attributed to Sea Gulf Condominiums on Mike Ellis, North Padre Island, with waves touching the dunes.

As the sun comes up this morning, we can see how high tides have been overnight. Water is at the dunes along much of the coast. We're coming out of high tide, but waves will likely keep water high on the beach all the day. Even higher levels are expected tonight into tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/iKD4nQjjuZ  NWS Corpus Christi (@NWSCorpus) June 18, 2024

The water is expected to close local beach access roads and likely cause some beach erosion, according to the local NWS.

City officials may also close the walkway on Packery Channel jetty, according to a memo sent by City Manager Peter Zanoni in a memo to the City Council on Monday afternoon.

Street, creek and river flooding

Between six- and eight inches of rain is predicted to fall within the next few days, with the heaviest from Tuesday afternoon or evening into the duration of Wednesday.

That is enough water to cause flooding in different areas of the city  aside from coastal flooding, flooding of roads and creeks.

Please see here for a list of roads prone to flooding.

Another area well-known to flood is Oso Creek, although flooding in that area often occurs after heavy rain instead of during.

There is at least a 40% chance of flash flooding in Corpus Christi and surrounding areas starting Tuesday and extending into Thursday, according to an NHC fact sheet.

Water tends to be a greater danger than wind in tropical storm events, according to the NWS.

City and state officials have frequently warned drivers not to drive around barricades.

More water-related deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard, according to weather.gov, in part because people underestimate the force and power of water.

Vehicles driving into flood waters pose the highest mortality rate, followed by walking into flood water, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report cited by weather.gov.

Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water, the site states.  A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.

Wind

Between 35 to 45 mile per hour winds may accompany conditions in the Corpus Christi area, according to a local NWS map graphic, which warns that residents should prepare for power outage across South Texas.

How is the city responding?

City officials have created an action plan in anticipation of flooding.

City Manager Peter Zanoni, in a Monday afternoon memo to the City Council, wrote that North Beach may begin to see some coastal flooding by noon Tuesday.

Although Wednesday is Juneteenth  and while most of the citys services are planned to be closed  we will be requiring a number of employees to report to work including the majority of Public Works, Zanoni wrote in his memo to the council.

The 3-1-1 call center  which takes nonemergency calls  and the emergency operations center are planned to be open Wednesday, as well, he wrote.

The Padre Island beaches will remain open, however the Packery Channel jetty walkway and nearby roads may be closed following established safety protocols, Zanoni added.

In this photo from the city of Corpus Christi, storm surge is shown beginning to encroach on beach access road Newport Pass.

Elsewhere in the city, officials plan to pre-position barricades at roads known to flood, he told the Caller-Times late Monday afternoon.

It is also planned heavy vehicles will also be pre-positioned in the event of needed rescue, Zanoni added.

In a subsequent news release, city officials wrote that personnel were in process of maintenance on storm drains to keep them clear, while crews had already relocated city-owned items on the beach, such as lifeguard stands and trash cans.

The drought

As of Monday, combined levels of Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Reservoir  the primary water resources for Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend region  stood at about 25.1%, according to city of Corpus Christi data.

It is considered Stage 2 drought.

The city has been in drought for about two years.

Between two and four inches of precipitation may reach the recharge areas, Zanoni wrote in his memo to the City Council on Monday.

Should the recharge zones receive between three and five inches of rain, it could raise the combined lake levels to 30%, he told the Caller-Times. However, Stage 2 drought restrictions remain in effect until the combined lake levels rise to about 40%.

This is a developing story. Check back to caller.com for updates.

A map issued by the Corpus Christi office of the National Weather Service shows a wide swath of coastal areas under a tropical storm warning.

This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: A tropical storm warning has been issued for Corpus Christi
Its pretty well-documented that Donald Trump is a liar, but the rate at which he lies is actually sort of impressive.

At a rally in Racine, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, the former president delivered a ranting and rambling speech that lasted about an hour and a halfand was filled to the brim with false statements.

CNNs Daniel Dale compiled a list of the 30 lies Trump rattled off during his appearance. This puts Trumps lies-per-minute rate at about one lie for every three minutes, which is on par given the amount the former president was repeating himself.

Heres just a few, according to Dale: Trump said there was world peace in 2020. There was very much not. He said he won Wisconsin in 2020; he lost. He said the Democrats rigged the 2020 election, a lie. He said people around President Biden cheat on elections, no. He said peoples votes tend to disappear; they simply do not.

CNN goes through 30 false statements from todays Trump rally pic.twitter.com/lrXy7MXaPu  Acyn (@Acyn) June 19, 2024

Dale pointed out that although Trump claimed to have saved Kenosha in 2020 from riots following the shooting of Jacob Blake, it was actually Democratic Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers who sent the national guard to the city, before Trump ever told him to.



He skewered Trump for saying that hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of cocaine was found in the White House last month, when in reality, a small bag generously in the hundreds of dollars worth was found 11 months ago.

Trump breathlessly repeated invented numbers about immigration, the crime rates in Venezuela, and the number of people who have crossed the Southern border. He attempted to rewrite history by spinning lies about his previous term as president, imagining that he pulled American troops out of Syria and lowered the trade deficit with China. He even lied about what he did last week, telling the crowd that he was in D.C. for one of his many trials, when he was really there to meet with Republican lawmakers.
Donald Trump keeps raising the bar of how far Republicans will go to spin President Joe Bidens debate performance. Reminder: it hasnt even happened yet.

During his rally in Racine, Wisconsin, on Tuesday, Trump suggested that if Biden performs well during the upcoming presidential debate, hell have hard drugs to thank.

Hes gonna be so pumped up. Hes gonna be pumped up, said Trump. You know all that stuff that was missing about a month ago from the White House? What happened?

As Trump was setting up his punchline, presumably about selling stolen goods to pay for drugs, he lost the plot and pivoted into incoherently rambling about Hunter Bidens laptop.

Who left it? Somebody left it. I wonder, lets see. Somebody left the laptop in an office of a gentleman who was supposed to fix the laptop from hell, said Trump. He never picked it up, and somebody didnt pick up hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of cocaine. I wonder who that couldve been.

I dont knowactually, I think it was Joe. Ha-ha, he said, cuing the audience that he had, against all odds, made it to the end of what he wanted to say.

Trump is pre-spinning a bad debate performance by preemptively accusing Biden of being on drugs pic.twitter.com/5MbFmsO4Pv  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 18, 2024

Obvious cognitive decline aside, Trump is once again mindlessly parroting something he heard Sean Hannity say, which has quickly become a regular Republican talking point: that Biden has a secret stash that saves him during public speaking events. Trump previously suggested that Biden was higher than a kite during the State of the Union address, and seems adamant on keeping the company line as he heads into the first Biden-Trump debate on June 27.



In fact, just Monday night, Hannity reiterated his claim to Trumps daughter-in-law and RNC Chair Lara Trump.

I think the Joe Biden we see on the debate night is gonna be the guy that we saw at the State of the Union, Hannity said. Hes going to be all hyped up, hyper-caffeinated, whatever it is.
From the Capitolism on The Dispatch

When news broke last week that Donald Trump had offhandedly proposed to replace the income tax with tariffs, my immediate reaction was similar to The Dispatchs own Kevin Williamson, albeit with less rhetorical flair. Yet, Trumps idea received enough credulous reporting and curiouseven supportiveonline commentary that it warrants elaborating on why Kevins instincts are indeed correct. So, even though no one could possibly prefer I write about things other than tariffs more than me, well dig into Trumps latest idea today.

Fortunately, we at Cato expected that tariffs would be a prominent political talking point this year and just published an accessible primer on everything tariffswho pays them, their economic effects, and so onby the Tax Foundations Erica York. Capitolism has already covered much of the essays substance at (considerable) length, but weve never really addressed whether tariffs are a good way for governments to raise revenue.

Spoiler: no. Even setting aside the many economic problems that tariffs create, trying to use them to fund the U.S. government is not only mathematically implausible even with radical spending cuts, it also raises all sorts of practical problems and economic uncertainties that render the plan even more problematic than Kevin (humorously) leads on.

The Basic Math Problem

The first big problem is basic math. The United States imported around $3.8 trillion total last year ($3.1 trillion in goods; $714 billion in services), but the federal government spent $6.1 trillion while raising just $4.4 trillion (libertarian sigh). So, in a situation where nothing changed in response to higher tariffs (more on that in a second), the federal government would need to impose a tariff on all imports of goods and services of around 160 percent to cover current spending and 116 percent to replace just revenues. The maths a little less challenging if you just want to replace income taxes with tariffs: Total income tax revenue in 2023 was almost $2.2 trillion, so wed need a mere (sarcasm) 58 percent global tariff to cover that amount.

Various nips and tucks to the topline data dont change the conclusion. Apply tariffs to just goods and you shrink the tax base, meaning youd need even higher tariff rates to cover whatever revenues youre trying to replace. Nix only income taxes for the bottom 50 percent of American taxpayers, and you can apply much lower tariff rates (maybe just a few percentage points). However, thats only because those folks pay almost no income tax (accounting for just 2.3 percent of all income taxes paid in 2021). In that case, youd be adding a lower global tariff but providing almost no actual tax relief and keeping the current, messy income tax system for tens of millions of workers. Since the tariffs would be paid by all Americans while income taxes are today mainly paid by high earners, the new tariff regime wouldas this recent Peterson Institute analysis showsprobably increase taxes on the poor even if it canceled out their income taxes entirely. (York further explains that U.S. tariffs today are doubly regressive. They create a larger burden on poorer households because poorer households generally spend more money on traded goods as a share of their income than wealthier households, and the design of existing tariffs exacerbates the regressivity because they are systematically higher for lowerend versions of goods than higherend versions.)

But wait, it gets worse.

The bad math above is actually much better than what would happen in the real world because Americans would change their behavior in response to high tariffs. Theyd import less because imports cost more. That result might be good for certain U.S. manufacturers who have new (captive) customers and can charge higher prices, but its a big problem for those wanting to use tariffs as major revenue-raisers because the taxes are only paid on imports that enter the country. Fewer imports would mean a smaller tax base, which in turn would mean youd need even higher tariffs to raise the same amount of revenue. But if you raise tariffs too high, you get no imports at alland thus no revenue. Oops!

This tension is one of the many contradictions in the promises of todays tariff advocates: Protectionist tariffs discourage imports but dont raise much revenue, while revenue-raising tariffs dont do much protecting because they have to be low enough to allow lots of imports. The snazzy flowchart in Yorks essay lays this out nicely:

This iron law of economics is one that, as Dartmouth economic historian Doug Irwin explains, even protectionist heroes like Alexander Hamilton understood. Congress adopted tariffs that the founding father (and author of the famous/infamous Report on Manufactures) recommended, but these tariffs were not highly protectionist because Hamilton feared discouraging imports, which were the critical tax base on which he planned to fund the public debt. This dynamic is also something that todays Republicans understandat least when it comes to income taxes: the oft-cited Laffer curve posits that a tax on a certain economic activity (usually labor) wont raise any revenue when its set at zero or 100 percent, with a hump (curve) in between:

As you can see, tax revenue generally rises with the rate until its costs get so onerous that the taxed activity declines and revenue begins to fall. Economists disagree about the exact revenue-maximizing tax rate and about the taxes growth effects, but they all agree that the Laffer Curve existsincluding for tariffs.

Someone should ask the RNC!

In practice, this means that theres a hard limit to how high tariffs can go and how much revenue they can effectively raise, a limit that depends on the extent to which consumers shift away from imports as tariffs increase their price (aka the elasticity). That shift, in turn, depends on the product at issue: If consumers have no choice but to keep buying a certain imported good or service, you can raise tariffs pretty high. If they have lots of alternatives, on the other hand, tariffs have to stay low. Setting aside whether maximizing tariff revenue is a good idea economically, implementing one would depend on finding the sweet spot for each good or servicea rate high enough to raise lots of money but low enough to keep imports flowing.

Common sense suggests that this tariff-maximizing rate would be much lower than one needed to replace most or all of the U.S. income tax, an intuitive conclusion confirmed via rigorous economic analysis. In a 2020 paper, Indiana University economist Ahmad Lashkaripour calculated industry-specific elasticities (based on data from 43 major economies and 56 traded and service-related industries) to model how just much government (non-trade) revenue could be replaced by a system of revenue-maximizing tariffs on imports and exports. As shown in the table below, Lashkaripour finds that trade taxes could replace at most 8.8 percent of current income tax revenues:

If applied to 2023, thatd mean a system of U.S. trade taxes could replace just $194 billion of the $2.2 trillion in income taxes raised that year. Thats not even one-fourth of U.S. defense spending or one-third of the federal governments interest payments last year ($805 billion and 659 billion, respectively).

Lashkaripours calculations are just one estimate, of course, but theyre overly generous in at least one way: They include export taxes that Trump isnt proposing and that are unconstitutional. Regardless, even if you double or triple his figures, youre still not getting anywhere in terms of paying for even a sliver of current U.S. government operations.

That point is worth reiterating, as some have argued for Trumps idea because it would necessarily mean less spendingsomething I, being a libertarian and all, also strongly support. But cmon, folks, lets get real. Forget for a second the small fact that Trump was a big spender when in office and isnt promising any serious spending cutsespecially not to entitlements, which drive our long-term spending problem. There is no remotely plausible situation in which the numbers here work.

By contrast, consider my Cato colleague Adam Michels brand new and intellectually serious plan to radically improve the tax code. He recommends steep tax cuts that would reduce tax revenues if implemented. The tax cuts could/should be best paired with spending cuts, but he also offers offsetting changes to the income tax that would raise trillions of dollars (closing loopholes, repealing tax credits, etc.) and make the plan roughly revenue-neutral in the off chance (sarcasm, again) that Congress is not ready to make dramatic spending reforms. All scenarios generate trillions of dollars more revenue than tariffs ever could.

So, yes, we need to enact bold tax and spending reforms. But relying on tariffs? Its unicorn math all the way down.

The Practical Problems

The tariff plan would also be plagued with practical problems. In just coverage alone, would Trumps tariffs apply to all imported necessities like food and beverages (almost $200 billion last year); clothing ($51 billion); shoes ($18 billion); and medicines ($203 billion)? Would it apply to the almost half of all imported goods that are industrial inputs used by American manufacturers to produce (and often export) other stuff? Would it apply to that $700-plus billion in services, including the ever-increasing share transmitted digitally or the $149 billion that Americans spent traveling abroad last year (considered a travel services import)? Would it apply to Americans personal, small-dollar purchases of retail items, whether made as tourists abroad or via direct mail?

The list goes on and on.

Indeed, as York reminded us Monday, these kinds of sensitivities pushed Trump in 2019 to balk at applying tariffs on many consumer-facing goods from China (he supposedly didnt want them to spoil Americans Christmas seasonLOL). Now were to expect tariffs on everything from everywhere, including stuff like tropical fruit or trips to Paris that you just cant get here, American consumers be damned? Seems unlikely.

And this brings us to the next practical problem: administrability and evasion. Exceptions and exemptions mean not only a narrower, opaque tax base and less tariff revenue but also more difficulty determining what to tax and collecting any taxes that ultimately apply. Tariff rates would also need to vary by product to maximize revenue (see elasticities discussion above). For goods alone, however, there are more than 17,000 unique items listed in the current U.S. tariff code, and even with that level of detail there are constant legal disputes about what line applies to some random product.

New and variable tariffs would increase these disputes and efforts to game the new system. Small-dollar personal purchases from abroad, for example, are now controversial in part because these de minimis imports exploded after Trumps last rounds of tariffs. More tariffs would lead to more searches for loopholes and even more creative tariff engineering, not to mention good ol smuggling. (In a new blog post, York estimates that as much as 15 percent of tariff revenue would be lost to this kind of noncompliance.) Global supply chains would similarly adapt. Markets never stand still.

Services could be even messier, especially when embedded in manufactured goods or delivered digitally. For example, a U.S.-based person or company (e.g., Netflix) could import a single digital item (e.g., Squid Game), and then resell copies of it in the U.S. for billions of dollars. Software and other digital goods, meanwhile, can also be classified as a service. The opportunity for evasion is endless, and enforcement would require an army of tax collectors stationed at U.S. borders and in Washington to monitor our every email, zoom call, and invoice. (Bring on the new U.S. Pirate Force!)

As I wrote years ago, We live in a strikingly different world today than the one inhabited by supposed protectionist champions such as Alexander Hamilton and Abraham Lincoln. Theirs was a world with less global trade (especially in services), few transnational supply chains, national economies reliant on agriculture and a few basic manufacturers, and people who wouldve (rightly!) considered digital trade to be witchcraft. For these and other reasons, looking to the 1800s for trade policy inspiration isnt just economically wrongheaded; its foolish.

Yet here we are.

The And Then What Happens? Problem

Finally, theres what happens after these tariffs are imposed, both here and abroad. On the latter, many countries would surely respond to new U.S. tariffs with tariffs of their own on American goods and services. That retaliation would hurt U.S. exporters (farmers, sure, but also in tech and other important, world-beating services) and the economy, just as retaliation to Trumps previous tariffs did years ago. However, as Lashkaripour shows in his paper, itd also hurt government revenues.

In particular, he finds that a revenue-maximizing tariff regime and the full-fledged trade war that follows would generate significant distortions (as compared to a low-tariff regime with an income tax) that reduce U.S. real GDP, shrink the U.S. tax base, and in turn force the federal government to impose other domestic taxes to make up for the revenue shortfall. Thus, per his calculations, tariffs in a trade war scenario not only make us all poorer but also would end up raising just 3.3 percent (dark blue bar) of the revenue that our current income tax generates:

One can certainly question whether all governments would retaliate and whether the U.S. government would raise other taxes if/when they did. Nevertheless, given how Trumps other tariffs played out in 2018-19China, the European Union, India and others did retaliate, and U.S. GDP did shrink (see, again, Yorks essay for the receipts)we should expect Lashkaripours conclusions to be at least directionally correct. In other words, wed see even less tariff revenue than the pittance a non-retaliation scenario would generate.

The tariff regime would surely raise other big questions, such as how the U.S. dollar and the Federal Reserve would respond. As York explains, both theory and practice show that tariff increases are often accompanied by increases in the value of a countrys local currency, which in turn reduces exports regardless of retaliation. (Trumps advisers, meanwhile, say they want a weaker dollar. Oops!) On the other hand, a tariff on a product typically means a higher price overall in the importing market, not just for importsanother common mistake about tariffs. (This is not only backed up by research but also just common sense: Non-tariffed alternatives are usually more expensive than the tariffed ones; if they werent, wed already be buying them without any tariffs.) So, a big global tariff would likely generate a significant, one-time increase in the general price level in the United States. How would the Fed respond to that?

Summing It All Up

Tax wonks on the right stick to a few basic principles when dreaming up grand plans to fix our broken U.S. tax code and boost American living standards. As Michel lays out, a tax system should feature relatively low rates and simple, transparent rules; a broad tax base with few (if any) loopholes and economic distortions (e.g., by treating income from labor and capital equally); and permanence. It should prioritize growth and fairness, while not adding to the deficit. The Tax Foundation offers similar principles on its list: simplicity (easy for taxpayers to comply and governments to administer and enforce), transparency (clearly and plainly define what taxpayers must pay and when), neutrality (neither encouraging nor discouraging personal or business decisions), and stability (maintaining consistency and predictability). Both cite broad-based consumption taxes, such as a retail sales tax or value-added tax (VAT), as prominent examples of systems that adhere to the aforementioned principles. (Consumedincome taxes, which are income taxes with a deduction for savings, are another.)

Tariffs, on the other hand, achieve none of these objectives. Rates would be high, complicated, and opaque; the tax base would be small (imports are around 15 percent of GDP and 11 percent of U.S. consumption) and almost certainly rife with exceptions and loopholes; distortions would be significant; gaming and evasion would be rampant; enforcement would be onerous, unpredictable, and difficult (at best). Wed get lower economic growth and worsened foreign relations, and, to top it all off, we wouldnt even raise much revenue. Tariffs are a 19th-century tool for a 21st-century economy, and theres a reason only poor countries rely on them to fund government operations: They have no other choice.

As Michel notes in a new blog post, the run-up to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Acts expiration next year has seen many serious plans from the left, right, and center for reforming U.S. tax policy in a sane and fiscally responsible manner. There are sure to be more in the months aheadbut tariffs aint one of em.

Charts of the Week

Labor dynamism FTW:

Chinese overcapacity is lowering prices in developing countries, but not in the United States

The U.K. is doomed

The Links

Video of my JEC hearing testimony

EV outlook dims

EV-maker Fisker files for bankruptcy, again

Biden official hilariously denies the existence of tradeoffs

Baby steps: Louisiana ends florist licensing

Paper: politics undermines subsidies job effects

All American households are getting richer

Are we overestimating the U.S. foreign-born population?

Sugar quotas push U.S. candymakers to Canada

When the Surgeon General Warned About Pac-Man

U.S. restaurants are the new real estate darling

New York spends a ton on public schooling

Just how much Chinese IP theft is there, really?

U.S. biofuel subsidies cause soaring demandand an import boom

Liberalizing nurse practitioner licensing lowers diabetics costs

Alaskan store shelves empty because a single ship needed repairs

Denmark bans Korean ramen for being too spicy

Globalization remains undefeated

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.
5 High-Yield Dividend Stocks With Over 20% Upside Potential

Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

As the AI-led rally pushes stock valuations higher, value-conscious investors seek underappreciated stocks for steady income and stock price appreciation opportunities. The Madison Dividend Income Fund, in its first quarter report, said that it believes dividend stocks will rebound amid a broader sector leadership change in the market observed during the quarter, with Energy, Industrials and Financials pocketing significant gains. The valuation of dividend stocks is another reason behind the fund's optimism, as it cited data from Bank of America (BofA) Global Research, which says some dividend funds are "historically cheap" compared with the S&P 500.

Many other notable Wall Street analysts are recommending dividend stocks in the current volatile environment. Talking to CNBC in April, JoAnne Feeney, Partner and Portfolio Manager at Advisors Capital Management, recommended investors to pile into "good" companies that pay dividends and keep their eyes "firmly on the long run." The analyst thinks dividend stocks help investors navigate through cyclical volatility.

In this backdrop, let's examine some top high-yield dividend stocks that also have upside potential in terms of stock price. Based on the average target price set by Wall Street analysts, we preferred stocks with at least a 4% dividend yield and 20% upside potential.

Vale SA

One-Year Average Analyst Price Target: $15.74

Upside Potential: 40%

Brazilian metals and mining company Vale SA (NYSE:VALE) is one of the notable high-yield dividend stocks with upside potential. The stocks dividend yield touched 11% as of June 18 as Vale shares fell 28% so far this year, driven by volatility in iron ore and copper prices after fresh data from China raised concerns about economic recovery in the country. In May, UBS upgraded the stock to Buy from Neutral and increased its price target to $15 from $13. UBS believes the ESG risks dragging down the stock are set to "moderate" as the firm believes the overall risk-reward for the company has also improved.

Wall Street analysts have an average price target of $15.74 for Vale, which presents a 40% upside potential from the stock price as of June 18.

BP PLC

One-Year Average Analyst Price Target: $43.30

Upside Potential: 22.35%

British oil giant BP PLC (NYSE:BP) was in the news after Citi called the company a potential "standard-bearer" in Europe's future energy policy following European Union parliamentary elections which saw right-wing leaders gaining ground. BP has a dividend yield of about 4.9%. In May, BP reported weak Q1 results and expects upstream production in the second quarter to be slightly lower than in the first quarter.

Story continues

According to data from Yahoo Finance, Wall Street has a $43.30 price target on BP, which shows a 22.35% upside from the stocks current levels.

KeyCorp

One-Year Average Analyst Price Target: $16.44

Upside Potential: 21%

With a 6% yield and 14 consecutive years of dividend growth, Cleveland, Ohio-based banking company KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY) is one of the noteworthy high-yield dividend stocks with over 20% upside potential.

Wall Street analysts on average expect the stock to hit $16.44 over the next 12 months, which is about 21% higher than the stock price on June 18. In April, the regional bank posted first quarter results that came in weak amid rising expenses and a decline in net interest income. Adjusted EPS from continuing operations came in at $0.22, missing the $0.23 consensus.

KeyCorp shares were trading at $13.59 as of June 18, while Wall Street analysts have an average price target of $16.44 on the stock, representing a 21% upside.

Rio Tinto

One-Year Average Analyst Price Target: $81.38

Upside Potential: 23%

Mining giant Rio Tinto PLC ADR Common Stock (NYSE:RIO) pays dividends semiannually and has a yield of over 6.5% as of June 18, one of the highest among peers in the mining industry. In April, the company said its iron-ore shipments fell 10% quarter-over-quarter. However, the company maintained its annual shipment guidance of 323 million to 338 million metric tons for the full year.

Wall Street analysts have an average price estimate of $81.38 for Rio Tinto, which represents a 23% upside from the stocks price as of the June 18 market close.

UGI Corporation

One-Year Average Analyst Price Target: $30.67

Upside Potential: 39%

Pennsylvania-based natural gas and power distribution company UGI Corp. (NYSE:UGI) has been paying dividends for the last 140 years and, as of 2023, increased its payouts for 36 consecutive years. The stock has a 6.7% dividend yield as of June 18. In the second quarter, the companys adjusted EPS came in at $1.97, beating estimates by $0.33, while revenue fell 20.3% year over year to $2.47 billion, missing the consensus by $600 million. The company affirmed its 2024 adjusted EPS outlook range of $2.70 to $3. Based on this EPS outlook, the companys payout ratio of under 50% makes the dividend safe.

According to data compiled by Yahoo Finance, Wall Street analysts expect the stock price to reach about $31 over the next 12 months on average. This estimate represents a 39% upside from the current price.

Are You Missing Out On Higher Yields?

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For instance, Basecamp Alpine Notes offers a target APY of 9% with a term of only three months, making it a powerful short-term cash management tool with incredible flexibility. EquityMultiple has issued 61 Alpine Notes Series and has met all payment and funding obligations with no missed or late interest payments. With a low minimum investment of just $1,000, Basecamp Alpine Notes makes it easier than ever to start building a high-yield portfolio.

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 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

This article 5 High-Yield Dividend Stocks With Over 20% Upside Potential originally appeared on Benzinga.com
Donald Trumps revenge tour hit a snag in Virginia on Tuesday night during the states primaries.

The former president had endorsed retired Navy SEAL John McGuire, a GOP state senator, and challenger to incumbent Bob Good after he committed the irredeemable sin of backing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in the Republican presidential primary.

Both Virginians had jostled for Trumps approval and in a scene worthy of sitcom, showed up to Trumps hush money trial on the same day in New York last month in an attempt to gain it.

As of Wednesday morning, things werent looking great for the MAGA candidate. McGuire had only a 309-vote lead and the race remains too close to call - hardly the kind of blowout that a Trump-backed candidate should enjoy, especially in an area with tons of rural, deep red pockets.

Its a suprising outcome as the odds had seemed stacked against Good. Not only was Trump against him but so was former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy whose political action committee gave $10,000 to McGuire. That money was payback for Good joining Matt Gaetz and six other Republicans in kicking out McCarthy as speaker back in October.

Virginia Representative Bob Good traveled to New York last month to show his fealty to former president Donald Trump at his hush money criminal trial. That did not prevent Trump from endorsing his primary opponent. Goods race was too close to call in Virginia on Wednesday (Getty Images)

Good should have fit the MAGA mold perfectly as he resembles many of the Tea Party hellraisers who dominated the conservative wing of the House Republican conference, even before Trump came along.

He knocked off an incumbent Republican in the 2020 election, who had presided over a same-sex wedding. A year later on the House floor, Good said: Nearly everything that plagues our society can be attributed to a failure to follow Gods law and his rules for and definition of marriage and family.

But Trump turned on him after he endorsed DeSantis. Good was also caught on video last year in a private conversation saying that Trump could lose to Biden.

But the Good-McGuire contest reveals that Trump cannot always decisively smite his perceived enemies, and oust them in favor of filling Republican ranks with acolytes.

It also appears that a sizeable number of people in Goods district like that he consistently holds Republican leadership to account. Far from being punished for voting against Republican bills and causing gridlock the House, Tuesdays primary shows plenty of voters want to reward his behavior by keeping him in Washington.

If Good ultimately wins the primary, he is likely to keep the House seat for Republicans in November. The non-partisan Cook Political Reportrates the seat as Safe Republican.

Trump-endorsed candidate John McGuire meets voters in June 2024 at a campaign stop. His primary race against Good was closer than many had expected (Facebook: John McGuire)

While that is good news for House Republicans, a Good victory would be bad news for Trump.

If Trump wins and Republicans control the House, Good will not feel the need to fall in line if he thinks he is betraying conservative values. Good has consistently voted against Republican spending bills and even in opposition to giving aid to Israel despite Republicans mostly unwavering support.

Good values fiscal responsibility and balanced budgets - traditional conservative values.

In a potential Trump administration, Good wont fall in with the former president if he thinks Trumps spending bills will bust the budget.

But the Virginia congressman is in a dwindling number - even Republicans who once complained about debt ceiling increases, like Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, now vote debt limit increases without consequence. Their fealty to Trump inoculates them from criticism. Conservatives who did care about fiscal values, and not for Trumps grandstanding or election denial like Ken Buck in Colorado and Justin Amash in Michigan, are gone.

But Goods valiant primary fight shows there is still a constituency for this type of Republican.

And the close contest shows that a Trump endorsement is not an automatic guarantee of victory. If Good somehow pulls off a victory in Virginia, he will have considerable leverage against Trump in a potential future administration. Now, he can always say that voters in Virginias 5th district preferred him even after Trump anointed a challenger.
Trump Loses It At Fox News, Says No One Can Trust It

Donald Trump bashed Fox News, his on-again-off-again favorite news network, on social media Wednesday, proclaiming that nobody can ever trust its reporting.

Trumps screed appeared to be in response to former Republican House Speaker Paul Ryans appearance on the network over a week ago, when he said Trump was unfit for office.

Nobody can ever trust Fox News, and I am one of them, with the weak and ineffective RINO, Paul Ryan, on its Board of Directors, the presumed GOP nominee for president wrote, using the acronym for Republican in name only.

Hes a total lightweight, a failed and pathetic Speaker of the House, and a very disloyal person, the former president continued.

A representative for Fox News didnt immediately return a request for comment on the former presidents remarks.

Ryans criticism during his June 11 appearance focused on Trumps character.

If you put yourself above the Constitution, as he has done, I think that makes you unfit for office, he said.

The former House speaker, who retired midway through Trumps stint in office, also blamed the former president for recent GOP election losses.

Hes cost us a lot of seats, Ryan said. He cost us the Senate twice. He cost us the House because he is nominating, he is pushing through the primaries people who cannot win general elections but who pledge fealty to him.

Its true that several candidates Trump propelled forward have cost the GOP seats in recent years, including ex-NFL player Herschel Walker in Georgia and venture capitalist Blake Masters in Arizona.

Trump regularly sours on Fox News whenever one of the networks hosts says anything he finds damaging to him. In January, he even lashed out at his press secretary-turned-Fox News contributor Kayleigh McEnany after she suggested he work on uniting the GOP more.

I dont need any advice from RINO Kayleigh McEnany on Fox, Trump wrote on social media.

Related...
Donald Trump vowed at a rally Tuesday that if reelected, hell cut funding to every school with a vaccine mandate  even though all 50 states have such laws on the books.

I will not give one penny to any school that has a vaccine mandate or a mask mandate, he declared at his rally in Racine, Wisconsin. The crowd went wild.

Its a promise hes made several times in recent months, repeating the same line verbatim at rallies in March and May.

If he followed through on that, no school in the United States would receive federal funding. All 50 states and Washington, D.C., have laws requiring specific vaccines for students, including measles, rubella, chickenpox, tetanus, pertussis and polio. Exemptions to the rule vary by state, with California, New York and a handful of other states maintaining the strictest mandates.

Public health experts credit those vaccine requirements with eradicating diseases that once killed thousands of people a year. Polio, a disease that infected, paralyzed or killed nearly 60,000 American children in 1952 alone, has been completely wiped out in the U.S. thanks to mass vaccination programs.

Donald Trump declared at his Wisconsin rally that he "will not give one penny to any school that has a vaccine mandate or a mask mandate." JIM WATSON via Getty Images

Trumps campaign did not immediately respond to questions about which vaccines he was referring to. Months earlier, his spokespeople said he was only referring to schools COVID-19 vaccine mandates. But hes declined to make that distinction during his speeches, including at Tuesdays rally  a decision that panders to his partys anti-vaccine crowd.

A growing faction of conservatives have begun questioning the safety of vaccines in recent years, despite the intense scientific scrutiny they undergo before the public receives them, and a dearth of evidence that they have any lasting adverse side-effects. A Politico/Morning Consult poll found last year that while vaccine skepticism was about equal among both Democrats and Republicans before 2020, more than half of Republicans now say they care more about the potential health risks of vaccines than the benefits.

Though he once took credit for the development of COVID-19 vaccines, Trump has since scaled back his endorsement of them and vaccines in general. Last month, he even attacked independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., one of the most prominent voices in the anti-vaccine movement, as not being anti-vaccine enough.

Republicans, get it out of your mind that youre going to vote for this guy because hes conservative. Hes not. And by the way, he said the other night that vaccines are fine, Trump said in a video posted to social media. He said it on a show, a television show, that vaccines are fine. Hes all for them. And thats what he said. And for those of you that want to vote because you think hes an anti-vaxxer, hes not really an anti-vaxxer.

Related...
The biggest race of Tuesday still doesnt have a winner.

Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.) squared off with a primary challenger backed by former President Donald Trump and has faced millions in negative ads. But it wasnt the blowout that one would expect when a candidate has nearly every major player in his party against him. Hours after the polls closed on Tuesday, the contentious battle between Good, the rabble-rousing House Freedom Caucus chair, and state Sen. John McGuire in Virginias 5th District was far closer than widely anticipated, with a winner potentially not coming for days.

Another high-profile challenge to an incumbent in Oklahoma also fumbled, and a handful of battleground matchups were set in Virginia, setting the stage for high-dollar contests over the next five months.

Heres what happened in Tuesdays busy primaries:



Incumbents are still hard to beat

The coalition assembled against Good included everyone from former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Trump, to a sitting member of the House Freedom Caucus that Good chairs. But that still wasnt enough for a decisive victory, with McGuire only narrowly leading as of early Wednesday morning, with the race too close to call.

It was a somewhat surprising result. McGuire was better-funded and had the all-powerful Trump endorsement. His struggles suggest the power of incumbency remains strong.

And if Good does survive, he will return to Congress even more emboldened to hijack the GOP leaderships legislative agenda and endorse the primary rivals of his House colleagues.

Elsewhere, another GOP incumbent cruised by his challenger. Longtime Oklahoma Rep. Tom Cole, a major establishment figure in the House Republican conference and chair of the House Appropriations Committee, easily won reelection against his self-funding challenger Paul Bondar, clearing the 50 percent threshold needed to avoid a runoff.

Cole, whos been in office for more than two decades and had Trumps backing, is expected to win in this deep-red district come the fall, despite being outraised and outspent in this primary.

Bondars loss is just the latest flashpoint of how challengers running to the right in safe red districts continue to falter this cycle as major GOP forces  Trump sometimes included  line up to block rabble-rousers who could further disrupt the caucus.

An otherwise good night for the establishment

In addition to Bondars defeat, the GOP establishment continued its winning streak, batting away potential troublemakers.

In Virginias battleground 7th District  which Democratic Rep. Abigail Spanberger is leaving to run for governor next year  Republican Derrick Anderson, a former Green Beret who unsuccessfully ran for the seat in the midterms, prevailed in a crowded GOP primary. He was the clear establishment favorite: He earned Speaker Mike Johnsons backing  one of around two dozen challengers who earned his support this year  and the House GOP leadership-aligned Congressional Leadership Fund spent more than $100,000 boosting him in the primary.

Meanwhile, his most prominent challenger, former Navy SEAL Cameron Hamilton, had the backing of members of the Freedom Caucus. He came in second place.

National Republicans are working to ensure that they avoid the candidate quality issue they encountered in the midterms  especially in battlegrounds, where candidates further to the right may struggle in the general election  and have been mostly successful.

But there are future tests on the horizon, as soon as next week. The Congressional Leadership Fund this week began spending in Colorados 3rd Congressional District, a red-leaning seat, to block Ron Hanks, a Republican candidate with a controversial past who could put what might otherwise be an uncompetitive seat into play for Democrats. Democrat Adam Frisch, who gained national attention after almost flipping the seat from Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert in the midterms, is running for the district again, and national Democrats have tried to boost Hanks.

Trump, who has largely been on the same page with party leadership when it comes to endorsing candidates, notched another clout-boosting win with Hung Cao, who will be facing Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine in Virginia in the fall. (Trump has had a mostly strong endorsement record, despite a few losses in recent weeks.) Kaine is the early favorite, but Trump has contended the state will be competitive in the fall.

And Trumps candidate of choice  his former aide, Brian Jack  was also victorious in the runoff for Georgias 3rd District, a deep-red seat that almost assuredly guarantees hell join the Republican ranks.

But it wasnt just the Republican establishment that had a good night.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committees candidate of choice, veteran Missy Cotter Smasal, overwhelmingly won the Democratic primary in Virginia's swingy 2nd District to take on Republican Rep. Jen Kiggans, one of the handful of Republicans who represent a district that President Joe Biden won in 2020. Kiggans begins the general election with a strong financial advantage.

And in Virginias 10th District, a blue seat, outgoing Democratic Rep. Jennifer Wextons candidate of choice  state Sen. Suhas Subramanyam  won, defeating a busy field. Hell be the favorite when he faces Republican tech executive Mike Clancy in the fall.

Democracy is front and center

Eugene Vindman, a former national security official and Trump-era whistleblower who helped spark the former presidents first impeachment, clinched the Democratic nod in Virginia's 7th District and will face Anderson.

Vindman is one of the nations top fundraisers , appealing to party donors  largely from outside of the state, which is a rarity for a first-time candidate  with his story of upholding democracy during the Trump era. Throughout his campaign, he noted that he  sacrificed his military career  to take on Trump.

Vindmans win  and national appeal  is a reassuring sign for Democrats who are continuing to rely on democracy messaging and are wondering about its salience more than three years after the Capitol riot. Bidens campaign is heavily leaning into such messaging, just last week attacking Trump over the riot and accusing him of wanting to burn democracy down.

Vindman wasnt the only down-ballot Democratic candidate who centered democracy messaging. Earlier this year, former Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn, who gained prominence after testifying before the Jan. 6 select committee, lost his bid in Marylands 3rd District. Still, Bidens campaign is using Dunn as a surrogate out on the trail , demonstrating how the presidents team views this as a core message.

Vindman earned just under a majority of the vote with a half-dozen other candidates on the ballot, including former state Del. Elizabeth Guzman, state Del. Briana Sewell and county supervisors Margaret Franklin and Andrea Bailey  all women of color.

Ally Mutnick contributed to this report.
Trump says he was always planning on staying in Milwaukee for RNC as campaign denies report he eyed Chicago hotel

Donald Trump says he was always planning on staying in Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention despite reports he eyed a Chicago hotel 95 miles away.

In a local television interview, Trump said he never wavered on plans to stay in the RNC host city for the July event. He made his comments as he prepared to take the stage in Racine, Wisconsin, on Tuesday for his first visit to the state after he reportedly called Milwaukee a horrible city. On stage, Trump declared he loves Milwaukee, as reports began to emerge he planned to stay in Chicago during the convention.

ABC7 Chicago and The New York Times both reported Trump planned to undertake the commute from the Windy City to the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee rather than stay nearby. The presumed Republican presidential nominee owns the Trump International Hotel in downtown Chicago.

Three separate sources spoke to ABC7 about the plans for the 2024 convention, including a high-ranking law enforcement officer, but the Trump campaign denied the report.

Karoline Leavitt, national press secretary for the campaign, told the network: The president is planning to stay in Milwaukee for the Convention.

Three people briefed on Trumps travel logistics around the July convention dates also told the Times the same story.

When reporters from both the paper and ABC began asking questions on Tuesday, those plans changed two of the people said.

Supporters of former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump cheer as he arrives to speak at a campaign event in Racine, Wisconsin. He is now saying that he always planned to stay in Wisconsin during the Republican National Convention and downplayed reports he was looking at a Chicago hotel during the event. (AP)

Mr Trump now intends to stay in Milwaukee, two of the people briefed on his logistics said, reported the Times. The change avoids a perceived slight to the largest city in Wisconsin, a vital battleground state.

When Trump spoke in front of an enthusiastic crowd on Tuesday in Racine  which sits on Lake Michigan between the two cities  referring to the partys decision to hold the convention there, he said: I love Milwaukee. I was the one that picked Milwaukee I have to tell you.

These lying people that they say oh he doesnt like Milwaukee  I love Milwaukee, Trump reiterated.

I said you got to fix the crime, he added. Youve got to make sure the elections are honest, but Im the one that picked Milwaukee.

While the campaign likely hoped that this would draw a line under the unforced error, even that statement received pushback.

Milwaukee Mayor Johnson: It is really interesting to hear Trump say that he selected Milwaukee. It was the RNC that selected Milwaukee. He was nowhere to be found. That is a complete fabrication. I am stunned by that. pic.twitter.com/5B3Yzrx6J2  Acyn (@Acyn) June 19, 2024

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson told CNNs Abby Phillip on Tuesday night that the claim was false, and it was the RNC, not Trump, who chose the city as the site of the convention.

Im a Democrat and the mayor of the largest city in the state and were proud to host the Republican National Convention. We worked really, really hard to get the convention though. Folks in the RNC have been great, said Johnson.

Right before I was initially elected mayor, I took time off the campaign trail to go to Washington, DC to go to the RNC headquarters to do the final pitch  it was the RNC that selected Milwaukee. I think I would I would remember if Donald Trump had anything to do with that he was nowhere to be found. That is a complete fabrication. I am stunned by that.

Asked about the reports that Trump had planned to stay in Chicago, Johnson said: You would imagine that the nominee would stay in the city especially, as he claims it  that he chose Milwaukee.

He continued: But if he thinks that Milwaukee is a horrible place, okay, thats one thing. And he was going to stay in Chicago. But what about even  the counties around Milwaukee, the reddest parts of the state that produce the most Republican votes, he wasnt even willing to stay in those places, opting instead to go across the state line, go and stay in Chicago, and then come up to receive the nomination like that. That just goes to show you that he doesnt care about Milwaukee, much less the entire state of Wisconsin.
Texas megachurch pastor Robert Morris, who Donald Trump once named as a spiritual adviser to his administration, announced he was stepping down from Gateway Church amid allegations he molested a 12-year-old girl in the 1980s.

The resignation comes days after Morris, 62, seemingly admitted to molesting the girl in a statement to The Christian Post. In that statement, he conceded that he engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady when he was already married with a child in his early 20s.

Morris didnt mention the girls agebut his alleged victim, Cindy Clemishire, told the religious watchdog blog The Wartburg Watch on Friday that she was only 12 when she was first sexually abused by Morris on Christmas Day in 1982. She claimed that he invited her into the room he was staying in at her family home during a visit, and touched her inappropriately on her breasts and under her panties.

Trumps Spiritual Adviser Quasi-Confesses to Molesting 12-Year-Old Girl

Morris ordered her to keep quiet about the molestation because it will ruin everything, Clemishire told the publication.

The abuse allegedly continued for four years before the teenager confided in a close friend, which prompted Morris wife to learn of what took place. That forced Morris to briefly stepped down from the ministry, but the nitty-gritty details of what took place were never made public until now.

It was kissing and petting and not intercourse, but it was wrong, Morris said of the relationship to the Christian Post.

Upon returning to the pulpit, Morris gained a large following as a preacher and, apparently, caught the eye of Trump, who named him to a spiritual advisory board in 2016.

Morris now-former church, located just outside Fort Worth, has over 100,000 attendees each weekend, it claims on its website.

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The US presidential race will be decided by these 7 states in 2024

The US presidential race will be decided by these 7 states in 2024

With the 2024 presidential race in full swing, both parties are eyeing their pathways to victory.

Should Vice President Harris secure the Democratic nomination, she'll face former President Trump.

A band of swing states in the Midwest and Sun Belt are poised to determine the outcome.

Over the past two decades, the road to the White House  once dominated by Florida and Ohio  has evolved.

While bellwethers like Pennsylvania and Wisconsin remain a critical part of the calculus for Democratic and Republican presidential nominees in reaching the 270 electoral vote threshold for victory, the Sun Belt region has also grown in importance.

For Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, who are poised to be opponents in November, every vote will be crucial in what is predicted to be a tight contest. And both campaigns are targeting a narrow band of seven swing states to capture the White House: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

Democrats  who defied conventional political wisdom in 2022 by retaining their Senate majority and minimizing major losses in the House despite losing control of the lower chamber  are working hard to hold the White House as they face voter unease over the economy and pushback over the Israel-Hamas war.

Before President Joe Biden declined to run for reelection in July 2024, Republicans believed that he would be a liability for Democrats. But the GOP's political calculus for the race is scrambled until the Democrats select their new nominee.

And Republicans have had myriad struggles over the last two years as their stewardship of the House has not exactly worked out how they had hoped. They elected a speaker (Kevin McCarthy of California) who was subsequently removed and have struggled to enact an agenda under a new speaker (Mike Johnson of Louisiana) with a razor-thin majority. The series of events created a "chaos" narrative around the party, which doesn't help at the top of the ticket.

The GOP must also contend with the toxicity of Trump's political brand among a sizable contingent of voters, especially among suburbanites and Independents who are likely to decide the election.

One major issue that has continued to weigh down Republican candidates is abortion rights, especially as voters in an array of states have rejected several anti-abortion measures following the Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Democrats have won big in urban and suburban districts over the issue  from congressional races to local elections  and they've even made inroads in some GOP-leaning areas where blocs of Republicans support some form of abortion rights.

Trump has been eager to take credit for installing three conservative justices on the Supreme Court, and in April 2024 he stated that abortion was now an issue to be determined in the states, frustrating many conservatives who have sought a national abortion ban.

It's now set to be a defining issue of the 2024 race, especially in the battleground states.

Then-Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden speaks at the Carpenters Local Union 1912 in Phoenix, Ariz., on October 8, 2020. AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File

Arizona

2012 margin: Romney +9.0%

2016 margin: Trump +3.5%

2020 margin: Biden +0.3%

Between 1952 and 2016, Arizona backed the Republican presidential nominee in every election except for 1996  when then-President Bill Clinton won the state over former Kansas Sen. Bob Dole by a little over 2 points.

Long associated with Barry Goldwater, the conservative political icon who was the Republican presidential nominee in 1964, the Grand Canyon State for decades had a decidedly red lean in federal races.

But as the population of Arizona has swelled, its political orientation has also shifted.

In 2012, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney easily won the state over then-President Barack Obama, but former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton whittled the GOP margin of victory down to just under 4 points in 2016.

Biden, buoyed by gains among the state's burgeoning Latino population, narrowly won the state over Trump in 2020 by a little under 11,000 votes out of nearly 3.4 million ballots.

Democrats remain encouraged by their performance in Arizona in the 2022 midterms.

Not only did Secretary of State Katie Hobbs defeat MAGA-infused Kari Lake in the gubernatorial race, but Sen. Mark Kelly won a full six-year term over Republican Blake Masters. Adrian Fontes was also elected to succeed Hobbs over state Rep. Mark Finchem, who repeatedly questioned the 2020 presidential election results.

The eventual Democratic nominee must recreate a win in a state where Republicans have long been the dominant party. And Lake is now running in the state's marquee Senate race, where she's poised to face Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego should both candidates win their respective party primaries in August.

Former President Donald Trump watches election returns and speaks with guests at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Fla., on November 8, 2022. AP Photo/Andrew Harnik

Georgia

2012 margin: Romney +7.8%

2016 margin: Trump +5.1%

2020 margin: Biden +0.2%

For decades, Republicans could easily depend on the Peach State's electoral votes falling into their column. No more.

While GOP politicians were enjoying double-digit wins in statewide races, former Democratic state House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams  who saw the possibility of a more politically-competitive Georgia  worked behind the scenes to build a turnout organization that could rival that of the Republican Party.

In 2018, Abrams came within 55,000 votes of winning that year's gubernatorial election.

Two years later, Biden won the state by roughly 12,000 votes over Trump, followed by the dual 2021 runoff victories of Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff over Republicans Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, respectively.

The exponential growth of the Atlanta suburbs, driven by new Black, Asian, and Latino residents, has given the state a purple veneer  but the 2022 midterms also showed the limitations of Democratic gains.

Warnock won a full six-year term in a December runoff after fending off a challenge from Republican Herschel Walker, becoming the only Democrat to win statewide in the midterms. But Walker, aided by robust support in the state's rural counties, still won 48.6% of the vote in the runoff, despite a candidacy that some Republicans saw as deeply flawed.

And Republicans were victorious in every other statewide election, led by Gov. Brian Kemp, who defeated Abrams in a rematch of their 2018 contest by nearly 300,000 votes.

This year, both parties will fight hard to capture the state's 16 electoral votes: Democrats are focused heavily on turning out Black voters and suburban voters in metro Atlanta, while Republicans are looking to boost their traditional support in the state's rural stretches.

Translation: Georgia will continue to be on everyone's mind this year.

The phrase "Count Every Vote" is displayed outside the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing, Mich., on November 6, 2020. AP Photo/David Goldman, File

Michigan

2012 margin: Obama +9.5%

2016 margin: Trump +0.2%

2020 margin: Biden +2.8%

Michigan has long been a critical part of the electoral calculus for Democrats, as they carried the state in every presidential race from 1992 to 2012 by appealing to voters in Detroit and its middle- and upper-middle-class suburbs, while also enjoying support among union households and moderates in the exurban and rural stretches of the state.

But the party was stunned by Trump's narrow 2016 win in the longtime blue state, as the Republican made significant inroads with the base of white working-class voters who had been slowly drifting away from Democrats cycle after cycle.

In 2020, the party put a premium on flipping the Wolverine State back into its column, which Biden did, winning by nearly 3 points over Trump.

And in November, Democrats in the state boasted some of their party's most impressive victories in the entire country.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer won reelection by nearly 11 points, while state Attorney General Dana Nessel and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson easily won their races. The party also flipped control of both houses of the Michigan legislature, and a referendum enshrining reproductive rights into the state Constitution was approved by voters.

Still, despite the Democratic wins, the state's 15 electoral votes will be a sought-after prize for both parties in 2024.

A major caveat: Biden has faced enormous pushback from the state's Arab American community over his handling of the conflict in Gaza, which led more than 100,000 Michiganders to vote "uncommitted" instead of selecting the president in the March Democratic primary. It remains unclear how these voters will respond to Harris' candidacy  or that of another Democrat.

Then-Nevada GOP gubernatorial nominee Joe Lombardo, right, campaigns with Trump at a rally in Minden, Nev., on October 8, 2022. AP Photo/Jose Luis Villegas, Pool

Nevada

2012 margin: Obama +6.7%

2016 margin: Clinton +2.4%

2020 margin: Biden +2.4%

Democrats have been victorious on the presidential level in the Silver State since 2008, when Obama won by nearly 13 points, followed by his victory of nearly 7 points in 2012.

But Clinton and Biden both won the state by a little over 2 points, as Republicans have seen the fast-growing Western state as one that can be flipped into their column, especially if they can make inroads in Democratic-heavy Clark County.

In the 2022 midterms, Republicans got a huge boost in the state when their gubernatorial nominee, Clark County Sheriff Joe Lombardo, defeated incumbent Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak.

But Democrats also notched a major win by reelecting Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto to a second term over former state Attorney General Adam Laxalt, who had been strongly backed by Trump. And after state Democrats approved congressional maps that some in the party saw as especially risky in a GOP wave year, all three of the party's House incumbents  Dina Titus, Steven Horsford, and Susie Lee  won their respective races.

The ticket-splitting in the midterms once again showed the critical nature of Nevada in national politics. Both parties are looking to win the state in 2024, especially as the economy remains at the forefront of voters' minds.

North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein has defied the state's slight GOP lean in recent presidential years, winning his races in 2016 and 2020 by razor-thin margins. AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File

North Carolina

2012 margin: Romney +2.04%

2016 margin: Trump +3.7%

2020 margin: Trump +1.3%

Since 1980, Republican presidential nominees have won North Carolina in virtually every election, with the exception being Obama's razor-thin 2008 victory over then-Arizona GOP Sen. John McCain.

And no presidential candidate has secured a majority of the vote in North Carolina since Romney won 50.4% of the vote in 2012, making this once solidly-red presidential state a real battleground.

Democrats are focusing heavily on North Carolina this year, given the close nature of the results in 2020, as well as the fact that the party sees the state as one where they can appeal to its suburban electorate  a critical part of Biden's coalition four years ago.

However, the GOP is banking on Trump's popularity in the state's rural regions, which could sway the statewide tally in the former president's favor if he's able to effectively turn out his supporters.

And in the midst of the presidential race is the highly-competitive gubernatorial contest between Democratic state Attorney General Josh Stein and Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, two well-known statewide figures who are angling to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.

Biden, right, and former President Barack Obama, center left, take part in a campaign rally for then-Pennsylvania Democratic gubernatorial candidate Josh Shapiro, center right, and then-Democratic Senate nominee John Fetterman in Philadelphia, Pa., on November 5, 2022. AP Photo/Matt Rourke

Pennsylvania

2012 margin: Obama +5.4%

2016 margin: Trump +0.7%

2020 margin: Biden +1.2%

Biden's hometown of Scranton is dear to his heart so Pennsylvania was always going to be a key state for the party in 2024. And even with Biden out of the presidential race, the state remains just as critical for Democrats.

Democrats carried Pennsylvania in every presidential race from 1992 to 2012, until Trump narrowly edged out Clinton in 2016, gaining support among the white working-class voters who populate the exurban and rural communities across the state.

But Biden clawed back in 2020, boosted by strong returns in Philadelphia and its affluent suburbs, as well as a robust vote in Allegheny County, which includes Pittsburgh.

And in 2022, Democrats had a huge year in the state, electing Lt. Gov. John Fetterman to the Senate to succeed retiring GOP Sen. Pat Toomey, while also electing state Attorney General Josh Shapiro in a landslide to succeed term-limited Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf.

The party also regained control the state House of Representatives, winning back a majority they lost in the 2010 midterms.

Despite the GOP losses, the party  keen on winning back some suburban voters and improving their margins in the state's rural outposts  will again make a major play for Pennsylvania this fall.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers addresses a joint session of the Legislature in the Assembly chambers at the state Capitol in Madison, Wis., on February 15, 2022. AP Photo/Andy Manis, File

Wisconsin

2012 margin: Obama +6.9%

2016 margin: Trump +0.8%

2020 margin: Biden +0.6%

Wisconsin is one of the most politically-divided states in the country.

Democratic presidential nominees Al Gore and John Kerry eked out statewide wins in 2000 and 2004, respectively, and Obama won the state easily in 2008 and 2012.

But Trump flipped Wisconsin to the GOP in 2016, the first time it had supported a Republican presidential nominee since 1984.

Democrats, stunned by the loss, regrouped and elected Tony Evers as governor in 2018  knocking out onetime GOP star Scott Walker  while also reelecting Sen. Tammy Baldwin to a second term.

Biden went on to narrowly win the state over Trump in 2020.

And in November 2022, Evers was reelected to a second term over Republican businessman Tim Michels, while GOP Sen. Ron Johnson narrowly defeated then-Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes to earn a third term in the upper chamber.

Both parties are eyeing the Badger State  and looking to turn out their respective bases  in what will be another competitive race on the presidential level.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Tuesday ends with South Fork and Salt fires still uncontained after Ruidoso evacuated

Two fires threatening the community of Ruidoso expanded Tuesday, June 18, affecting at least 500 structures and prompting a second evacuation order, this time for the neighboring City of Ruidoso Downs.

The South Fork Fire burning to the west and north of the village grew to about 15,300 acres by mid-afternoon, with 1,400 structures reported lost, according to the New Mexico Forestry Division. The Salt Fire, burning to the south, totaled about 5,500 acres.

Both were 0 percent contained by 9 p.m. Tuesday. KOB-TV and Source New Mexico reported at least one death has resulted from the fires.

The South Fork Fire ominously threatened the Village of Ruidoso June 17 and 18.

Shortly after 4 p.m. Tuesday, authorities announced a second evacuation order in as many days, urging residents of the City of Ruidoso Downs to evacuate immediately due to the Salt Fire "making a run" toward the community. An evacuation order Monday applied only to a portion of Ruidoso Downs, as well as to Ruidoso proper and surrounding neighborhoods, a village official said.

The only available evacuation route for the 2,600-person community of Ruidoso Downs was U.S. Hwy. 70 east toward Roswell.

State police blocked all highways leading to Ruidoso due to the high risks of traveling to the area.

Fire crews from multiple agencies were fighting the blazes using both ground and air equipment.

Since its start on Monday morning, the larger South Fork Fire has encroached upon homes and businesses in Ruidoso and Alto, a short drive to the north.

Dramatic footage of the Alto Ski Shop ablaze at night was circulating on social media Tuesday. Also perishing in the fire was the Swiss Chalet Inn, a well-known hotel along Mechem Drive that was built in 1962.

It was rumored the Albertsons grocery store, also located on Mechem Drive, had burned, but a company spokesperson said that was not the case  at least through late afternoon Tuesday. The store is closed, however, and will remain so until its safe for employees to return.

Smoke hovers north of Ruidoso.

Residents and onlookers followed fire progress on an alert app known as Watch Duty. At least according to the app, much of the Upper Canyon, a heavily wooded area of Ruidoso, appeared to still be standing.

Officials declined to comment about what structures had or hadn't survived the fire, saying their main focus now is on fighting the blazes. Assessments of damage will come later.

The Ruidoso Midtown area, known for its shops and restaurants, appeared to be intact through late afternoon. Smoky skies over a deserted street could be seen via a popular webcam.

Monday, most residents evacuated Ruidoso as the threat of the South Fork Fire especially grew throughout the afternoon and evening hours. Despite the order being described as mandatory, an unknown number of people remained behind in their homes, said Village of Ruidoso spokesperson Kerry Gladden.

"We did a mandatory evacuation of the village yesterday afternoon, she said. But in New Mexico, it's against the law to make people leave their property. We had a lot of people go, but there were people that stayed.

Tuesday, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an emergency declaration concerning the Ruidoso fires, a move that opens the doors for funding to flow to the response efforts.

At least one federal website listed the source of the fires as human-caused. However, Gladden said she wasnt able to verify that Tuesday.

The fire response was expected to transition to a high-level federal command structure Tuesday evening, according to Gladden.

The South Fork Fire grew rapidly in its first several hours Monday, June 17.

One familys evacuation story

Monday, long lines of cars formed on major evacuation routes, congested as thousands of people attempted to leave the area at the same time.

Among the evacuees was Lauren McCullough, who lives in the Rancho Ruidoso Valley Estates northeast of Alto. She said authorities have a ready, set, go three-stage warning system thats supposed to be used to prepare people for evacuating from a fire. But the get ready stage hadnt even been announced when police drove through the neighborhood telling people to evacuate.

This thing escalated really quick, she said.

About 30 minutes before police arrived, McCullough said the area was being rained upon by ash originating from the South Fork Fire.

McCullough had several plastic totes filled with decorations for her upcoming wedding. Anticipating a likely evacuation, she and her children emptied those and started filling them instead with important stuff that wasn't replaceable.

We ransacked our house, she said. And shortly after, our power went out.

PNM power company did cut off power in areas Monday, but its unclear if thats why McCulloughs power was shut off.

Her daughter, whos attending New Mexico State University, is back home for the summer, which meant the family had two cars with which to evacuate.

We were able to escape with eight totes, four suitcases and a dog, three cats, a snake and a ferret, she said.

About 9 p.m. Monday, the family evacuated north on Hwy. 48. They continued to Albuquerque and are staying in a hotel until they can return, if their home is still standing. McCullough said shes trying to remain calm in the face of a chaotic situation.

I have a feeling we'll be okay, she said. I definitely pray for the ones who aren't so lucky.The Southern New Mexico Journalism Collaborative is a partnership of local newsrooms working together to cover important topics in the southern half of the state. More info: www.southNMnews.org or www.surNMnoticias.org.

This article originally appeared on Carlsbad Current-Argus: Tuesday ends with South Fork and Salt fires uncontained near Ruidoso
Two arrested in Holmes Co., one facing attempted murder charge from Oregon

HOLMES COUNTY, Fla (WDHN)  Two people are behind bars in the Florida Panhandle after deputies claim one of them was tied to an attempted murder from over 30 hours away.

On Tuesday, June 18, responded to a rest area in Ponce De Leon after receiving a report about a silver Chevrolet Impala with Illinois license plates having a possible kidnapping victim and suspect wanted for murder inside.

According to the Holmes County Sheriffs Office, when deputies arrived on the scene, they saw the silver Impala trying to leave and pulled it over, immediately detaining the driver, identified as David Eugene Grant.

A release from the HCSO says a check on Grants background revealed he wanted out of Oregion for attempted murder and other crimes, and the passenger, identified as Aiyana Stokes, told deputies she was not being kidnapped and was traveling with Grant of her own free will.

Deputies claim during a search of Grants Impalla, officers found marijuana, a shotgun, and a pistol in the trunk.

Grant was arrested and charged with driving with a suspended license, possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and outstanding warrants from Oregon, including the attempted murder charge.

Stokes was charged with possession of marijuana, and allowing an unauthorized person to drive.

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.
We recently compiled a list of the 10 Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy Now. Since Ambev S.A. (NYSE:ABEV) is part of the list, we have discussed the stock in detail.

The Global Alcohol Industry:

In 2019, the global alcohol consumption, measured in liters of pure alcohol per person of 15 years of age or older, was 5.5 liters, which is a 4.7% relative decrease from 5.7 liters in 2010. As we mentioned in our article  20 Most Consumed Alcohols in the World  the global alcoholic beverages market size was valued at $1.62 trillion in 2021 and is projected to reach $2 trillion by 2031, with a CAGR of 2.2% during the forecast period.

The market is likely to be driven by the increasing global young-adult demographic, coupled with high disposable income and consumer demand for premium/super-premium products. Globally, beer drives the market for alcoholic beverages. Regionally, North America and Asia-Pacific are expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

Resilience of the Beverage Alcohol Industry:

As reported by Forbes, an analysis by Goldman Sachs has revealed that beer and spirits volumes in the American market have shown little correlation with economic growth. Their sales are more related to the general trends of alcohol consumption per capita rather than the general state of the economy. This is because beer and spirits are often seen as affordable luxuries or even staples.

Similarly, a Cambridge University study focused on business cycles and alcohol consumption across 24 countries over more than 50 years also found no symmetric reduction in beer and spirits consumption during recessions. The decreasing levels of average per capita income lead to very small changes in gross alcohol, wine, and beer consumption. In fact, the surge in unemployment during recessions could instead trigger an increase in the average alcohol intake. Moreover, it was also revealed that those who enjoy drinking tend to drink a lot more during the good times.

However, during times of economic difficulty, consumers tend to drink more at home as it is cheaper than hitting the bars. So while on-premise businesses suffer a decline in sales, liquor stores and online alcohol retailers tend to profit heavily.

Americans drank more alcohol also during the pandemic and this was reflected in the resultant imposts collected by the national kitty. Alcohol tax revenues collected by the U.S. Treasury Department rose by 8% in the fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, 2021, compared to the previous year, and remained well above pre-pandemic levels.

Story continues

Alcohol As a Lucrative Investment Asset:

Rare whiskeys are incredible as investment vehicles. Aptly named Liquid Gold, this beloved liquor can preserve and even increase in value during economic instabilities, inflationary periods, and recessions. One simply cannot forget about the bottle of The Macallan 1926 Valerio Adami that sold in auction for $2.7 million in November 2023, or the 1975 cask of Ardbeg single malt which was acquired by a private collector in Asia in 2022 for over $20 million, more than double the amount Glenmorangie paid for the entire Ardbeg distillery and all its stock in 1997.

The Rare Whisky 101 Apex 1000 Index tracks whiskeys that are highly sought after for collection. It has gained over 383% since 2013, against 286% gains by S&Ps famous benchmark of the top 500 companies for the same period. The RW Japanese 100 Index, on the other hand, includes 100 collector's bottles from Japan, and since 2015, the index has seen gains of more than 396%. The index includes bottles like Ichiro's Malt 'Card' Ace of Spades, Ace of Diamonds, and King of Hearts, among others.

Similarly, if we enter the realm of rare wines, the Liv-ex Burgundy 150 Index tracks the ten most recently physical vintages for 15 white and red Burgundy, including six Domaine Romanee Conti labels. The index has gained over 102% over the last five years, against around 88% gains made by the broader market during the same period.

Ambev S.A. (NYSE:ABEV): Best Alcohol Penny Stock?

A closeup shot of a beer tap pouring a golden lager.

Methodology:

To collect data for this article, we scanned Insider Monkeys database of 920 hedge funds and picked the top 10 companies operating in the alcohol sector with the highest number of hedge fund investors. When two companies had the same number of hedge funds investing in them, we ranked them by the revenue of their last financial year instead. Following are the Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds:

9. Ambev S.A. (NYSE:ABEV)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 14

Ambev S.A. (NYSE:ABEV), formally Companhia de Bebidas das Americas, is a Brazilian brewing company that has now merged into Anheuser-Busch InBev. It offers beer under the brand names Skol, Brahma, Antarctica, Bohemia, Original, Quilmes, Pacena, Pilsen, Labatt Blue, Alexander Keith's, Kokanee, and Guarana Antarctica.

Ambev reported a revenue of around $20.27 billion in Q1 2024, 1.2% less than the same quarter last year. However, the companys net income remained the same and its net revenue per hectoliter actually grew 0.9% versus last year. Moreover, the Sao Paulo-based beer maker reported a healthy debt/equity ratio of 4.37%, with total cash holdings of $13.92 billion. Although Ambevs net profit in the last quarter of 2023 decreased by 11% compared to the previous year, the company remains optimistic for this year. It bases its expectations on two pillars  the solid performance in the first two months of 2024, driven by Carnival, and the expansion of sales of Premium beers. Moreover, Ambev S.A. (NYSE:ABEV) has a current forward P/E ratio of 12.42, even after steadily increasing or maintaining its revenue over the last 3 years, making it an Undervalued Alcohol Stock in our opinion.

The shares of ABEV were held by 14 hedge funds at the end of Q1 2024 in the Insider Monkey database, with First Eagle Investment Management holding the largest stake of 312.7 million shares, valued at $775.9 million.

Overall, ABEV ranks 9th on our list of the best alcohol stocks to buy. You can visit 10 Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy to see other alcohol stocks that are on hedge funds' radar. While we acknowledge the potential of ABEV as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than ABEV but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: Analyst Sees a New $25 Billion "Opportunity" for NVIDIA and Jim Cramer is Recommending These 10 Stocks in June.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Two former Union County students charged with breaking and entering into schools

Two former Union County students charged with breaking and entering into schools

UNION COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Two former Piedmont High School students have been charged after breaking and entering into Piedmont Middle and High Schools, according to the Union County Sheriffs Office.

Earlier this week, school resource officers responded to investigate the schools after a reported breaking and entering. SROs determined two suspects used forced entry to get into the schools and stole various items during the early morning hours.

Two people charged for stealing from high school in Burke County: Sheriff

Officials said that both were quickly identified as former Piedmont High School students. Brendan Cranor, 18, was arrested shortly after the investigation started and remains in custody.

A juvenile secured custody order was denied for the other suspect, a 17-year-old boy. Authorties say he is not in custody but will face charges via juvenile petitions.

Both suspects were charged with numerous offenses including:

Felony breaking and entering

Felony larceny

First-degree trespassing

Injury to personal property

Officials say anyone who sees criminal activity is asked to call 911 or the UCSO Main Office at 704-283-3789.

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.
2 flown to hospital after being pinned between RVs at Camping World in Prince William County

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  Several firefighters and Prince William County police officers were at Camping World Wednesday morning after two people were pinned between two RVs.

Police told DC News Now that the incident occurred in the business parking lot on Balls Ford Road in Manassas.

(Joe Poth/DC News Now)

Where to celebrate Juneteenth in DC, Maryland and Virginia

Police said both patients were airlifted to the hospital. As of 1 p.m., their conditions were unknown.

DC News Now is working on learning more. We will update this story as details are released.

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.
William Garvin was a former slave who enlisted in the military during the Civil War. National Park Service

Camp Nelson National Monument and Mammoth Cave National Park will celebrate the history and contributions of Black servicemen during and after the Civil War.

The contributions of Black soldiers during the Civil War will be recognized during a ceremony in Kentucky on June 22 at Mammoth Cave National Park. The commemoration, in honor of Juneteenth, will be held in conjunction with Camp Nelson National Monuments 160th anniversary of the enlistment of Black servicemen.



I think its a special way to pay tribute to these American heroes and their families, said Steve Phan, chief of interpretation at Camp Nelson.



The ceremony will pay tribute to the countless Black Americans who pursued freedom, equality, and the rights of citizenship during and after the war.



The majority of people have not heard of Camp Nelson, Phan said. Even Civil War buffs or enthusiasts, when they hear of Camp Nelson, they dont know too much about it.



On June 13, 1864, the U.S. Army authorized the enlistment of Black men for military service at eight major recruitment and training centers across Kentucky  the last state to allow Black soldiers to enlist. Camp Nelson was the third-largest recruitment center in the country, enlisting more than 10,000 men.

William Garvin, who was enslaved at birth and enlisted at Camp Nelson to gain his freedom, is one of the parks most notable names. He later became a guide and explorer at nearby Mammoth Cave after the Civil War. Garvin is known for discovering the maze-like cave passage known as the Corkscrew.



During Fridays Juneteenth events at Camp Nelson and Mammoth Cave, a special U.S. flag will be presented to members of the reactivated 12th U.S. Colored Heavy Artillery. There also will be a replica tent encampment, along with a cannon, to demonstrate what life was like for members of that regiment.



I think its really important to see that the living legacy of African American soldiers and their families continues today, Phan said.



Both the ceremony and the encampment demonstration are free and open to the public.



The National Park Service invites everyone to commemorate Juneteenth by visiting any national park site for free on June 19.

More must-reads:
Two North Florida men have been arrested and charged for possessing and transmitting child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement announced that retired correction officers Benjamin Gerard Smith, 57, Live Oak, and Donald Howard, 57, Starke, were taken into custody.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

An investigation began when FDLE agents received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that pictures showing the sexual abuse of children were being shared electronically. Smith and Howard were identified as the two suspects.

On Tue., June 18, warrants were served separately in Suwannee and Bradford Counties. The Bradford County Sheriffs Office assisted in serving Howards warrant. Electronic devices with multiple files of children being sexually abused were seized at both homes.

Smith was arrested and booked into the Suwanee County Jail and Howard was arrested and booked into the Bradford County Jail.

FDLE said that after retiring from being a corrections officer, Smith was fired from his job at an elementary school after allegations were reported of inappropriate contact with children.

Investigations are being conducted by the FDLE Live Oak and Gainesville field offices.

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Suspect identified in Gordon shooting, believed to be in North Florida

HOUSTON COUNTY, Ala (WDHN)  The search is on for a suspect accused of shooting two people in Gordon Tuesday night.

Major Bill Rafferty with the Houston County Sheriffs Office identified the suspect as Travis Dickson.

The shooting occurred around 8:00 p.m. in the 300 block of Tifton Road.

According to a release from the Houston County Sheriffs Office, at around 8:00 p.m., Dickson shot two people inside a home in the 300 block of Tifton Road before setting a fire inside the house and fleeing in a red Dodge Charger. Major Rafferty told WDHN the shooting was a result of a domestic dispute.

Reports show the victims, a woman whom Dickson was in a relationship with and a female minor, were transported to a local hospital for treatment. The victims conditions are unknown at this time.

The HCSO release goes on to claim that after fleeing the scene, Dickson eluded an Ashford Police Officer by going nearly 130 MPH and abandoned the Dodge Charger at the Greentree Apartment Complex in Headland.

A friend at the apartment complex gave Dickson a 2018 Chevrolet Cruz and a cell phone, and he began driving to Tallahassee, Florida, According to the HCSO. Tallahassee Police later found the Chevrolet Cruz abandoned.

Dickson is currently wanted on two counts of attempted murder, one count of shooting into an occupied building, and one count of arson.

Stay with WDHN for updates.

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.
A U.S. delegation visited the Dalai Lama on Wednesday after passing a bill urging Tibet and China to settle their dispute over Tibet's autonomy. File Photo by Keizo Mori/UPI

June 19 (UPI) -- A delegation of high-level U.S. lawmakers visited the Dalai Lama after Congress last week passed a bill urging China to open dialogue to end its longstanding dispute with Tibet.

The delegation, led by House Foreign Affairs Chair Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, and including former House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif; Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y.; Rep. Gregory Meeks, D-N.Y.; Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass.; Rep. Ami Bera, D-Calif.; and Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa, visited Tibet's government in exile in the Indian town of Dharamsala in the Himalayas.

The Dalai Lama has lived in India, which recognizes Tibet as a part of China, since 1959, following Tibet's failed uprising.

HHDL holding a copy of The Resolve Tibet Act, a bipartisan bill to enhance US support for Tibet and promote dialogue between the People's Republic of China and the Dalai Lama toward a peaceful resolution of the long-standing dispute between Tibet and China, presented to him... pic.twitter.com/B5uIBjj9hd Dalai Lama (@DalaiLama) June 19, 2024

The delegation's visit comes as the Dalai Lama is set to visit the United States for medical treatments for his knees later this month and as President Joe Biden is expected to sign the Resolve Tibet Act, which passed through Congress with bipartisan support.

Although the United States also recognizes Tibet as part of China, the bill calls for the two sides to settle their dispute over Tibet's calls for autonomy.

China sees the Dalai Lama as a separatist and any contact with the Tibetan government as interfering in Chinese internal affairs.

The visit drew ire from Beijing as McCaul said Chinese officials warned them not to visit but he felt it was important to show the lawmakers' commitment to Tibet and their right to self-determination.

China's foreign affairs ministry publicly condemned the meeting on Tuesday, calling Tibet by its Chinese name of Xizang.

"The U.S. needs to see the true nature of the Dalai group -- who are anti-China and harbor a separatist agenda -- and honor commitments the U.S. has made to China on Xizang," the ministry said on X. "The U.S. must not have any contact with the group and stop sending the wrong message to the world."
More than 80 percent of avocados in the U.S. come from Mexico, so any disruption in the supply chain can cause headaches at the grocery store. But the U.S. Department of Agriculture just halted the import of certain avocados after some of its employees faced reported security concerns in the Mexican state of Michoacan.

On June 14, the USDA notified the Avocado Exporting Producers and Packers of Mexico (APEAM) that it was suspending new avocado shipments from Michoacan until further notice after a reported safety incident in the state. According to The New York Times, the agency didnt say why it was doing so, but Mexican news outlet Quadratin reported that two USDA inspectors were detained by local community members at a checkpoint. The USDA is pausing inspections on avocados and mangos in Michoacan while it conducts an investigation and ensures the safety of its personnel.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico confirmed that the inspectors were no longer detained. Mexican exports aren't blocked, and avocado imports from neighboring Jalisco are continuing as usual. Any avocados and mangos that are already in transit to the U.S. haven't been affected, but the USDA halted the import of any non-inspected shipments.

It's the second time in two years that the U.S. has stopped avocado imports from Michoacan amid gang violence and extortion. In February 2022, the U.S. instituted a ban for one week while the local government put a security plan in place after a threat against an inspector.

Brace yourself next time you hit the produce aisle.
A new independent reportpresented to the United Nations Human Rights Council on Wednesday concluded that Israeli forces have been carrying out several crimes against humanity on the civilian population in Gaza, including a campaign of extermination that has ramped up since the current military offensive began more than eight months ago.

The report was conducted by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel. The independent commission, which initially published the report on June 12, was formed to investigate human rights abuses committed by Israeli forces and Palestinian militants.

The commission presented its report before the U.N. Human Rights Council, which began its 56th session in Geneva on Wednesday. The report focuses mostly on possible international violations of humanitarian and human rights laws from Oct. 7 to Dec. 31.

The commissions report also found that militants belonging to Hamas and six other Palestinian armed groups engaged in the war crimes of murder, intentionally directing attacks on civilians, torture, inhuman or cruel treatment, destroying or seizing an adversarys property, outrages upon personal dignity and taking hostages, including children, on Oct. 7.

I am appalled by the disregard for international human rights and humanitarian law by parties to the conflict of Gaza. There has been unconscionable death and suffering, U.N. human rights chief Volker Turk told member states on Tuesday.

Volker Turk, the U.N. high commissioner for human rights, listens to questions from journalists at a June 4 news conference at U.N. offices in Putrajaya, Malaysia. Mohd Rasfan/AFP via Getty Images

The report additionally found that Israel is responsible for the war crimes of murder, intentionally directing attacks against civilians, forcible transfer, sexual violence, starvation as a method of warfare, torture and inhuman or cruel treatment, arbitrary detention and outrages upon personal dignity after the Oct. 7 attack.

Many of the acts were also included in the commissions previous list of Israels crimes against humanity, in addition to extermination and gender persecution targeting Palestinian men and boys.

The primary difference between war crimes and crimes against humanity, according to the international community, is that crimes against humanity can also occur in peacetime rather than solely amid armed conflict. The report did not conclude that Palestinian militants engaged specifically in crimes against humanity.

An act listed under the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the International Criminal Court, would be considered a crime against humanity when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack directed against any civilian population, with knowledge of the attack.

Hamas militants launched an Oct. 7 attack on Israel that left an estimated 1,200 people dead and about 240 taken hostage, roughly half of whom were released during a temporary halt in fighting in November.

Israel responded to the Hamas attack by carrying out a U.S.-funded military offensive in Gaza that so far has killed an estimated 37,000 people, displaced most of the population of 2.3 million, detained Palestinian men and boys, disproportionately harmed women and children, destroyed health infrastructure and created a starvation crisis by blocking lifesaving humanitarian assistance.

More than 120,000 people in Gaza, overwhelmingly women and children, have been killed or injured since Oct. 7, as a result of the intensive Israeli offensives, Turk said in his statement Tuesday. Since Israel escalated its operations into Rafah in early May, almost one million Palestinians have been forcibly displaced yet again, while aid delivery and humanitarian access deteriorated further.

A Palestinian boy salvages items from a damaged apartment on June 18 following overnight Israeli strikes in al-Bureij refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip. Bashar Taleb/AFP via Getty Images

Israeli authorities consistently presented their military objectives as destroying all of Hamas, releasing Israeli hostages and preventing future threats to the State of Israel emanating from the Gaza Strip, yet their actions and the consequences of their actions indicate other motivations, including vengeance and collective punishment, the report concluded.

Statements made by Israeli officials reflected policy and practice of inflicting widespread destruction, killing large numbers of civilians and forcible transfer. The Commission found that statements made by Israeli officials amounted to incitement and may constitute other serious international crimes, it said. Statements aimed at systematically dehumanizing Palestinians, particularly Palestinian men and boys, and called for collective punishment.

The findings did not just concern Israel and Gaza. According to the report, Israeli forces also committed the war crimes of sexual violence, torture and inhuman or cruel treatment, and outrages upon personal dignity against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, while the Israeli government and military enabled and sometimes participated in settler violence against the territorys Palestinian communities. More than 500 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by Israeli forces or settlers since October, the report said, with at least 130 of them children.

Palestinian relatives grieve as they wait Friday to receive the body of 21-year-old Qais Muhammad Zakarneh, who was killed during an Israeli military operation the day before in Qabatiyeh in northern occupied West Bank. Zain Jaafar/AFP via Getty Images

Both Israeli forces and Palestinian armed militants have denied the accusations that both parties committed acts of sexual violence. Palestinian militants such as Hamas engaged in acts indicative of sexual violence on Oct. 7 in similar ways in several locations primarily against Israeli women, the commission said, specifying that some of the gender-based violence targeted both civilians and members of the Israeli military.

Specific forms of sexual and gender-based violence are essentially embedded into the Israeli militarys operating procedures, according to the report. The commission made the finding due to the frequency, prevalence and severity of the violations, which include public stripping and nudity intended to humiliate the community at large and accentuate the subordination of an occupied people.

The commission said that it was limited in some of its findings due to Israel not responding to its many requests to access both the country and Gaza for its investigation.

The reports presentation comes just days after The Associated Press released a harrowing investigation that revealed how Israels continued military offensive in Gaza is wiping out entire Palestinian bloodlines, killing dozens of family members from multiple generations. From October to December, AP identified at least 60 Palestinian families in which at least 25 members were killed by Israeli bombing.

A Palestinian child looks Dec. 31 at the graves of people killed in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip and buried inside the Shifa Hospital grounds in Gaza City. Mohammed Hajjar via Associated Press

When the family had one martyr, it lived in grief for all its life. Imagine now, Youssef Salem, who lost hundreds of relatives in Gaza to Israeli airstrikes, told AP. How could we still be sane after all of this?

The Israeli government stands accused before the International Court of Justice of committing genocide against Palestinians  an accusation that both Israel and the U.S. have rejected  and the top war crimes prosecutor with the International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and three Hamas leaders. The U.N. special rapporteur for the occupied Palestinian territories also released a thorough investigation earlier this year concluding that Israels actions in Gaza meet the qualifications to be considered genocide.

It is imperative that all those who have committed crimes be held accountable, commission chair Navi Pillay said in a statement earlier this month. The only way to stop the recurring cycles of violence, including aggression and retribution by both sides, is to ensure strict adherence to international law.

Related...
U.S. Soldier Gordon Black Sentenced to Nearly 4 Years in Russian Penal Colony After Reported Fight with Girlfriend

Following his arrest in May, U.S. officials told ABC News that Black had not been granted permission to visit Russia amid temporary leave

AP Photo Gordon Black seen being escorted into court on June 6, 2024

Nearly seven weeks after U.S. Staff Sgt. Gordon Black was arrested on charges of stealing in Russia, he has been sentenced to three years and nine months in a penal colony, per the Associated Press, The Washington Post, CNN and ABC News.

According to the AP, Black was convicted of stealing and making threats of murder on June 19 by a court in Russias city of Vladivostok. The 34-year-old had been visiting his girlfriend in Vladivostok who accused him of stealing from her, the outlet explained per both U.S. officials and Russian authorities.

In addition to his sentence, the AP reported that Russias state news agencies Tass and RIA Novosti have said Black has also been ordered to pay 10,000 rubles ($120) in damages.

Related: Hunter Biden's Guilty Verdict: Read the Full Recap of His Final Day in Court

His trial began just two days prior, ABC News reported per Russian media, and while he did not admit to the charges of assault or threat to kill, he pleaded partially guilty to charges of theft.

AP Photo Gordon Black seen in a Russian courtroom on June 6, 2024

According to CNN, Russian news agency RIA Novosti reported that when speaking to the Pervomaisky District Court on Monday, Black said that after taking money from the womans purse  which he said he spent on food and three nights in a hotel  he transferred $125 to her the next day. In addition, the news agency reported that Black said the woman would collect a deposit of 10,000 rubles from the landlord after the lease of the apartment, which he paid for, ended.

The Washington Post identified the woman as Alexandra Vashchuk. Per Russian outlet Interfax, via the Post, Black was arrested after a fight in the couple's shared apartment where in addition to taking money, he allegedly grabbed Vashchuk by the neck. Black claimed she started hitting him and acting aggressively after consuming half a bottle of vodka, the news agency reported.

Related: U.S. Secret Service Agent Robbed at Gunpoint During Joe Biden's Visit to California

U.S. Officials told ABC News in May that Black had been stationed in South Korea and was on temporary leave at the time of his arrest though he had not been granted permission to travel to Russia.

AP Photo Gordon Black speaks to his lawyer in the courtroom on June 19, 2024

Blacks parents previously told ABC News that their son had been dating the Russian bartender for years after meeting her near his base in South Korea. Blacks stepfather, Marty Jones, said they tried to talk him out of it when they heard of his plans to visit her.

Their relationship was definitely volatile, thats why we were always against it, Jones told the outlet. We tried to tell him just stay away. "

Per Russian news agency TASS, CNN reported that Blacks lawyer said the soldier will appeal the sentence.

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Read the original article on People.
By Pete Schroeder and Michelle Price

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Christy Goldsmith Romero will likely win enough votes to be confirmed as U.S. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation chair but Republicans are likely to slow walk the process.

President Joe Biden last week nominated Goldsmith Romero, a Democratic commissioner at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, to replace Martin Gruenberg who is stepping down after a probe found widespread sexual harassment at the agency.

Beyond safeguarding deposits and supervising banks, the FDIC is a key player in rule-writing efforts that would impose new guardrails on banks and their executives. Getting Goldsmith Romero confirmed just months before the November presidential and congressional elections could stabilize leadership at the agency for years to come.

The White House wants her confirmed as soon as possible, said a person familiar with the process, and Sherrod Brown, the Democratic chair of the Senate Banking Committee which handles FDIC nominees, is targeting an ambitious timeline. He aims to hold her first hearing the week of July 8, Reuters reported.

Nominees require 51 votes to be confirmed in the evenly divided Senate where Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris can break a tie, but fierce opposition from Republicans and industry groups has in the past created cracks among Democrats and derailed the process.

While that is unlikely in Goldsmith Romero's case, the prominence of the role and contentious Senate dynamics will likely slow the process, leaving Gruenberg to hang on for potentially a few more months, according to Washington analysts and insiders.

"The likeliest scenario in our view is that this nomination will be slow walked, face some headwinds ... and stall in the near-term," said Isaac Boltansky, director of policy research at brokerage BTIG, wrote in an email to Reuters.

An attorney with a background in enforcement who previously oversaw a 2009 crisis bank bailout program, Goldsmith Romero is backed by Democratic progressives but is generally seen as a non-contentious pick and has influential supporters in Republican circles, said two of the people. She was unanimously confirmed by the Senate twice before.

Brad Bondi, a prominent Washington attorney and registered Republican who has known Goldsmith Romero for over a decade told Reuters she was an "honest, intelligent, hardworking and fair" consensus-builder who will work across party lines.

Top congressional Republicans struck a neutral tone on Goldsmith Romero last week, with Senator Tim Scott, the most senior Republican on the Senate Banking Committee, saying he would review her qualities for the job.

Story continues

His team has not yet taken a stance on her nomination, said one person briefed on the matter.

To be sure, past casualties of the nomination process show that previous Republican support does not guarantee success.

Sarah Bloom Raskin withdrew her nomination for the Federal Reserve's top regulatory job in 2022 after moderate Senate Democrat Joe Manchin joined Republicans in refusing to support her over her prior comments on climate change. She had been unanimously approved to a Fed role in 2010 and a Treasury Department role in 2014.

And aside from the FDIC's cultural problems, there are other high-stakes issues on the table. The FDIC is still grappling with the fallout from bank failures last year which exposed supervisory issues at the agency, and is trying to finalize bank capital hikes and other rules on bank debt, executive pay and mergers which are opposed by Wall Street banks and many Republicans.

But Republicans' statements suggest they "may not go all out to defeat Goldsmith Romero and will declare victory for having ousted Gruenberg," said Ian Katz, managing director at policy research firm Capital Alpha Partners.

Goldsmith Romero and a spokesperson for the FDIC declined to comment. In a statement to Reuters, Brown said he aimed to "get her in this position as quickly as we can."

FLOOR VOTE

Still, Republicans will likely force a lengthy confirmation process, giving them more time to embarrass Democrats over their handling of the FDIC scandal and to grill Goldsmith Romero over her stance on capital hikes and other rules, said analysts.

Some critics of Goldsmith Romero's nomination say she lacks the bank supervision experience for the role, while hardline Republicans have vowed to oppose Biden's nominees to protest former President Donald Trump's conviction last month.

If one Senator objects to a nominee their confirmation must go to a full Senate debate and recorded vote, potentially sucking up hours of floor time which is limited with the chamber due to be out most of the summer through early September.

One Senate aide said a floor vote was the likely route.

While Republicans have called for Gruenberg to resign, they may also spy a strategic advantage in allowing the process to drag through November, said analysts. If presumptive Republican presidential nominee Trump retakes the White House, he could shift the balance of power at the FDIC toward Republicans who could more easily oust Gruenberg than a freshly confirmed Goldsmith Romero, allowing Trump to then nominate a Republican in Gruenberg's place.

Goldsmith Romero's nomination will also be competing with other Democratic priorities, including lifetime judicial nominees and so-called messaging bills on hot-button issues like reproductive rights which Democrats hope to use to highlight distinctions with Republicans ahead of the election.

After September, Senators are scheduled to be campaigning in home states rather than tied up in Washington.

Ed Mills, an analyst at Raymond James, wrote on Friday that Goldsmith Romero's nomination was likely. "But a short time frame and limited number of Senate days in session introduces some uncertainty."

(Writing and reporting by Michelle Price. Reporting by Pete Schroeder. Additional reporting by David Morgan; Editing by Nick Zieminski)
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, pictured here in May, said Tuesday that the Biden administration does not know what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is talking about when he said they are blocking weapons to Israel. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

June 19 (UPI) -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is asserting that the United States is blocking shipments of weapons to Israel -- an assertion the Biden administration rejects, stating it is committed to the Middle East nation's defense.

The Israeli leader on Tuesday issued a 50-second, English-language recorded statement recounting a conversation he had with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his recent visit to the Middle Eastern country.

In the recording, Netanyahu claimed he told Blinken that it is "inconceivable" that the Biden administration "has been withholding weapons and ammunitions to Israel."

The assertion has seemingly blindsided the Biden administration, leaving its spokespeople to flatly and firmly deny the assertion.

"We genuinely do not know what he's talking about," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday during a regular press conference. "We just don't."

The United States has been supplying Israel with billions of dollars in weaponry amid its war against Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza, which began Oct. 7.

President Joe Biden made a grand display of support for Israel early in the conflict, but there have since been growing tensions between the two leaders. Biden has increasingly been publicly critical with Netanyahu over the war's ballooning Palestinian death toll and lack of humanitarian assistance getting into Gaza.

In May, the administration blocked a single shipment of 2,000-pound, unguided bombs to Israel over concerns over their potential use in a now ongoing campaign in the southern Gazan city of Rafah.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the time defended the pause, stating they are not the best weaponry to be used in dense city warfare.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "When Secretary Blinken was recently here in Israel, we had a candid conversation, I said I deeply appreciated the support the U.S. has given Israel from the beginning of the war. pic.twitter.com/xq5iw1JzcU Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) June 18, 2024

Jean-Pierre said they are continuing to discuss the release of this paused shipment with Israel but there are no other pauses or holds in place.

"Everything else is moving in due process," she said.

During a press conference held shortly after Netanyahu's statement was published, Blinken told reporters that the shipment of 2,000-pound bombs is the only one under review and "everything else is moving as it normally would move."

He did not respond to questions concerning Netanyahu's description of their conversation, but said Biden is committed to ensuring Israel has what it needs to defend itself.

"Israel is facing a multiplicity of threats and challenges," he said, and a big part of ensuring it can defend itself from those threats is to see that it has "a strong deterrent, which is the best way to avoid more conflict, to avoid more war, to avoid what we're already seeing in Gaza spreading [to] other areas, to other fronts."

"That's been one of our objectives from day one," he said.

He added that many systems heading to Israel could take up to years to get there, stating "it takes a long time to move these things."

"That is the nature of the way this works," he said.

At the Department of Defense, Pentagon press secretary Gen. Maj. Pat Ryder gave comments that essentially mirrored those of Blinken and his White House counterpart -- there is only one shipment on hold and the administration is committed to staunchly supporting Israel's defense, he said.

"Since Hamas' vicious attack on Oct. 7, we've rushed billions of dollars of security assistance to Israel to enable them to defend themselves and we're going to continue to provide them with the security assistance they need again for defense," he said during the press conference.

No decision has been made on the paused shipment and the Biden administration "has been very clear with the Israelis about the steps that they must take to be effective in this fight," he added.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Sen. Jack Reed, a Rhode Island Democrat, a co-sponsor of the bill, said Congress must act swiftly now to keep up with technology, protect public safety, and prevent future mass-shootings.

The Republican-appointed justices who issued this ruling badly misfired by striking down the ban on bump stocks, Reed, who served in the U.S. Army and trained with machine guns, said in a statement.

I agree with those in law enforcement and the overwhelming majority of Americans who say that these lethal accessories should be banned, Reed added. These conversion devices have no legitimate purpose other than to raise body counts and endanger law enforcement and public safety. Congress must act on a bipartisan basis to reinstate the bump stock ban and help keep the American people safe.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

 U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-New Mexico

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Tennessee Lookout.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

A gun rack with assault rifles is displayed at a weapons retailer. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Maine Morning Star.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on NC Newsline.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Gun wall rack with rifles

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Michigan Advance.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on North Dakota Monitor.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb. (Courtesy of Ricketts campaign)

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
AstraZeneca has been dealt a blow after its flagship breast cancer drug Truqap (capivasertib) did not improve overall survival (OS) in a Phase III TNBC trial.

The Truqap and chemotherapy (paclitaxel) combo in the Phase III CAPItello-290 trial failed to meet its dual primary endpoints of improvement in OS versus chemotherapy and placebo in either the overall trial population or in a subgroup of patients that had tumours with specific biomarker alterations (PIK3CA, AKT1 or PTEN).

According to research, mutations in PIK3CA, AKT1 and alterations in PTEN affect approximately 35% of patients with TNBC.

The Phase III, double-blind, randomised trial (NCT03997123) evaluated the efficacy of Truqap in combination with chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced (inoperable) or metastatic TNBC.

The safety profile of Truqap in combination with paclitaxel in CAPItello-290 was broadly consistent with the known safety profile of each medicine.

AstraZenecas executive vice-president for oncology R&D, Susan Galbraith, said: While we are disappointed in the CAPItello-290 outcome, these results will further our understanding of the role of the PI3K/AKT pathway in breast cancer as we continue our clinical research across the Truqap clinical development programme and across our pipeline.

Truqap is a first-in-class adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-competitive inhibitor of all three AKT isoforms (AKT1/2/3).

AstraZeneca has other ongoing Phase III trials for the drug, one in breast cancer, CAPItello-292, (NCT04862663) and two in prostate cancer in CAPItello-280 (NCT05348577) and CAPItello-281 (NCT04493853).

This recent blow comes after Truqap received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2023, in combination with Faslodex (fulvestrant) for patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER2-) locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer with one or more AKT pathway mutations.

While AstraZeneca originally hoped for approval for all HR+/HER- patients, the FDA only approved Truqap for patients with AKT pathway mutations despite statistical significance in its primary endpoint in the wider patient population.

The same combination was also recommended for approval in Europe in April 2024.

This more limited approval from the US body was due to the smaller effect on PFS in the wider population and the unfavourable safety profile, with 13% of patients discontinuing treatment in the experimental arm of the trial compared with just 2.3% in the placebo arm, as per GlobalData analysts.

Story continues

GlobalData is the parent company of Clinical Trials Arena.

Elsewhere in TNBC trials, Merck & Co (MSD) recently reported that its Phase III KEYNOTE-522 trial (NCT03036488) of its flagship drug Keytruda to treat high-risk, early-stage TNBC met its OS endpoint.

"AstraZenecas Truqap flops in Phase III triple negative breast cancer trial" was originally created and published by Clinical Trials Arena, 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.
After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them

Rifles on a wall rack. The U.S. Supreme Court recently overturned a rule banning bump stocks, a device that allows a semi-automatic to fire at a rapid rate much like a fully automatic gun. (Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts blocked a bipartisan bill Tuesday that would ban bump stocks following a Supreme Court decision that repealed a Trump-era rule against using the gun accessory.

Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, objected to New Mexico Democratic Sen. Martin Heinrichs request that the chamber approve his bill  cosponsored by Nevada Democratic Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  by unanimous consent.

Heinrich attempted to pass the bill, which the trio introduced last year, following the Supreme Court ruling last week that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives lacked the authority to ban bump stocks.

As a firearms owner myself, theres no legitimate use for a bump stock, Heinrich said. What they are tailor made for is a mass shooting.

The bill, S. 1909, would ban the sale of bump stocks that allow semi-automatic weapons to rapidly fire multiple rounds like a machine gun.

Ricketts argued that the Supreme Court made the right decision and said the bill didnt just ban bump stocks but also targets other firearm accessories.

Ricketts added that the bill is a violation of the Second Amendment.

This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semi-automatic firearms, Ricketts said. Its an unconstitutional attack on law-abiding gun owners.

Heinrich said the bill would not ban a large amount of firearm accessories, but would ban things like Glock switches, which can be attached to the side of a Glock handgun to convert a semi-automatic pistol into a fully automatic firearm.

I think the American people understand what common-sense gun safety looks like, Heinrich said.

Senate procedure requires 60 votes to proceed on most legislation. But for the chamber to approve a measure by unanimous consent, no senator can object.

Supreme Court ruling

The Supreme Court on Friday overturned an ATF regulation, enacted during former President Donald Trumps administration after the Las Vegas mass shooting, which defined a semi-automatic rifle equipped with a bump stock attachment as a machine gun. Machine guns are generally prohibited under federal law.

In that mass shooting, a gunman used rifles outfitted with bump stocks to fire into a crowd of 22,000 people at a music festival, killing 58 people that night and two more who died of their injuries later, and injuring more than 500.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor that the bill was needed because the Supreme Courts decision was an utter disgrace.

It will endanger our communities, endanger law enforcement, and make it easier for mass shooters to unleash carnage, Schumer, a New York Democrat, said.

The opinion, written by Justice Clarence Thomas, who is a strong defender of Second Amendment gun rights, deemed that the ATF exceeded its statutory authority in prohibiting the sale and possession of bump stocks, which he said differed importantly from machine guns.

Nothing changes when a semiautomatic rifle is equipped with a bump stock, Thomas wrote. Between every shot, the shooter must release pressure from the trigger and allow it to reset before reengaging the trigger for another shot.

Additionally, the decision, which was split along ideological lines, limits the federal governments ability to address gun violence in the absence of congressional action.

More federal gun legislation unlikely

With a split Congress, any gun-safety related legislation is unlikely to pass. However, after Fridays decision, President Joe Biden called on Congress to ban bump stocks and assault weapons.

Americans should not have to live in fear of this mass devastation, Biden said at the time.

The last time Congress passed gun legislation was in 2022 after two mass shootings that occurred less than two weeks apart.

One was at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed. The other was in Buffalo, New York, where a white supremacist targeted a predominantly Black neighborhood and killed 10 Black people.

The 2022 gun safety legislation did not ban any firearms but provided funds for mental health and to help states enact red flag laws, which allow the courts to temporarily remove a firearm from an individual who is a threat to themselves or others, among other provisions.

That same year, the Supreme Court decided on a major gun-related case that invalidated a New York law against carrying a firearm in public without showing a special need for protection.

Because of that decision, theres another gun-related case before the court that will test a federal law that prevents the possession of firearms by a person who is subject to a domestic violence protective order. A decision on that is expected this month.

The post After U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow bump stocks, U.S. Senate rejects bill to ban them appeared first on Source New Mexico.
The group of pro-Palestinian protesters at UC Davis who erected an encampment opposing Israels tactics in the war in Gaza last month announced the demonstrations conclusion Wednesday after their demands were not met.

UC Davis students, staff and community members  calling themselves the Davis Popular University for the Liberation of Palestine  pitched about 20 tents in Memorial Quad, the heart of campus, on May 6.

The encampments peaceful end comes as police have been called to dismantle tents around the state. Protester Stanford McConnehey, a May graduate of UC Davis Law School, declined to say specifically when the tents will be dismantled. UC Davis academic year has concluded, and the campus was quiet Wednesday.

An encampment spokesperson said they recognized some of their stipulations were beyond the scope of local authority, but that UC Davis administration had agreed, in part, to add courses about Palestine; review UC Davis Foundations existing and future investments; and officially acknowledge alleged harassment encountered by Palestinians, Arab and followers of Islam at UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

A cyclist enters the encampment of the Davis Popular University for the Liberation of Palestine, known as PULP, on the UC Davis quad Wednesday., the day the group announced its decampment at a press conference.

The UC Office of the President and UC Regents, the governing body of the university system, forbid the UC Davis administration from signing any agreement, said Beshara Kehdi, a Ph.D candidate in the School of Cultural Studies on Wednesday. The UC administration didnt want other schools to follow the example set at UC Davis and agree to other protesters demands, he said.

Its a betrayal, Kehdi said. Its a betrayal of students  disappointment doesnt express how devastated students in this campus are.

Negotiation team member Beshara Kehdi, left, talks with other protesters from the Davis Popular University for the Liberation of Palestine, known as PULP, after they announced their decampment at a press conference Wednesday at UC Davis.

Rachel Zaentz, a UC Office of the President spokeswoman, did not answer a question from The Sacramento Bee about its apparent intervention in the negotiations between UC Davis and protesters.

However, Zaentz wrote in a statement that the university has an obligation to protect the rights of students, faculty, staff and visitors. But the university must also guarantee students access to classes.

The Office of the President coordinates with campus Chancellors to support their efforts to preserve a safe and respectful campus environment, she continued. UCOP will continue to fully support our campus leaders  who are working under difficult circumstances  with balancing the right of free expression alongside each students right to attend their classes.

A UC Davis spokesman said the campus is likely to issue a statement about the encampment Thursday.

The protests coincided with work stoppages at multiple campuses as graduate students walked off the job on May 28. UC Davis academic workers  including post-doctoral students, teaching assistants, academic researchers and academic student employees  protested against the UC administrations handling of pro-Palestine campus protests across California and alleged unfair labor practices.

Signs mark the edge of the UC Davis encampment for the Davis Popular University for the Liberation of Palestine, which announced the end of their protest at a press conference on Wednesday.

An Orange County judge on June 7 ordered the UC union workers to halt its strike at six campuses, because the walkout appeared to be causing damage to students education during the critical end of the term when finals are taken, according to the LA Times.

The protesters also sought Chancellor Gary May to resign from the board of directors for defense contractor Leidos or resign from his university post, according to The Sacramento Bees past reporting.

May has served as a director for the Virginia-based firm  which provides engineering and technical services in the aerospace, defense, health care and IT industries  since 2015.

Its also unclear if protesters will continue their demonstrations as the new academic year begins. McConnehey said those discussions are underway.

(The) next ball is in their hands and were going to support them no matter what, he said.
Editors note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal.

The University of Central Florida wants to lease a building to help it become a national leader in hypersonic and space research.

The universitys board of trustees on June 25 will consider a lease of 50,800 square feet at 12889 Ingenuity Way in the Central Florida Research Park. The building would allow it to become a center of excellence tied to high-speed propulsion of vehicles, including space rockets.

UCF has led research in the development of technology to pave the way for hypersonic flight of Mach 6 to 17, which would allow you to go from New York to Los Angeles in 30 minutes.

Read: New freestanding ER debuts near UCF

Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journals website.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.




My Navajo homeland is the great expanse of land between four sacred mountains in Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah.

It is our place of origin and Navajo spiritual traditions are rooted here. Even when we were forcibly removed from our homeland by the federal governments Army in the 19th century, our spiritual and cultural connection to these lands has never been extinguished.

Utah Navajos still make use of this historic homeland, which is now known as the 1.35-million-acre Bears Ears National Monument, designated by President Obama in 2016. It is where we practice our ceremonies; gather herbs, firewood and cedar poles; hunt for game; rejuvenate our spirits and caretake our sacred places. Because the monument closely involves us, Navajo and other tribes in the area have been pushing for tribal management.

Mark Maryboy

For many years, the Navajo and other local tribesHopi, Uintah, Ouray Ute, Zuni and Ute Mountain Uteworked together to gain federal protection for this land. But what we gained is now threatened by developments that defile and dishonor the cultural and spiritual significance held by Navajo and other Native peoples.

The most recent example is the plan to build a 460-foot telecommunications tower on a parcel of land owned by a Utah state agency, the Trust Lands Administration. The land that would house the tower is in the heart of the Bears Ears National Monument.

If erected, this alien-looking tower will be a spear in the heart of the Bears Ears area. I am also saddened to think there will likely be more inappropriate developments on Utah Trust Lands within Bears Ears, now that the state has derailed a proposed land exchange between the Trust Lands Administration and the federal government.

The land exchange would have helped ensure that Navajo homelands are managed to protect our cultural and spiritual traditions. Now these landsour heritageface death by a thousand cuts.

The company placing the telecommunications tower has applied for and received a conditional use permit from San Juan County. But the company must also apply for and receive a variance from the county, because any tower higher than 35 feet is prohibited. So far, it has not applied for a variance.

The National Park Service opposes the tower and has submitted comments to both the Utah Trust Lands Administration and San Juan County. The federal agency said the tower would blight the viewshed, diminish the areas dark skies, and harm habitat for several threatened and endangered bird species.

For more than a century my people have had to fight for our rights. In 1868, when Navajos were finally allowed to return from forced exile, we were confined to a reservation south of the San Juan River. It was much reduced in size from our original homeland.

The prime lands higher up near the water and lush vegetation of Bears Ears were denied us. Nevertheless, these lands have always been a part of our cultural traditions, despite a documented history of racial injustices levied against Utah Navajos.

At every level, from county to state to the federal government, that history includes violations of voting rights, education and civil rights. All had to be litigated in federal court. Through all of that, Utah Navajos have fought to conserve and protect the public lands we traditionally used.

These lands need to exist as nature intendedto regenerate traditional plants and provide homes to wildlife that in turn sustain Navajo cultural traditions.

The Utah Trust Lands Administration and the federal government have a chance to do the right thing for Bears Ears. I urge the state of Utah and the federal government to restart discussions about a land exchange.

Otherwise, more out-of-place and inharmonious developments such as this 460-foot blinking tower could come to dominate the Bears Ears landscape.

Mark Maryboy is a contributor to Writers on the Range, writersontherange.org, an independent nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West. He served from 1984 to 2000 as a San Juan County, Utah, commissioner, and from 1990 to 2006, he was a delegate to the Navajo Nation Council.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: An ugly tower threatens Bears Earns National Monument
A pair of climate protesters were arrested Wednesday at the U.K.s Stonehenge monument after they sprayed the 5,000-year-old rocks with orange paint, British police said.

The protesters, 21-year-old Niamh Lynch and 73-year-old Rajan Naidu, are part of Just Stop Oil, a group that says it wants the British government to establish a legally binding treaty to stop extraction and burning of oil, gas and coal by 2030 alongside other nations.

With a national election set for July 4, Just Stop Oil is demanding that the incoming British government take action to phase out fossil fuels within a six-year period.

The paint is allegedly cornstarch-based, and is supposed to wash away in the rain, although the area is not expected to see rain before the weekend.

The monument receives a swell of visitors each summer solstice. This years solstice is Thursday.

Just Stop Oil protesters sit in front of Stonehenge after dousing it with orange paint. Just Stop Oil

Lynch and Naidu were stopped by concerned bystanders, who took their canisters of paint, leaving them to sit cross-legged in front of the monument.

Our enquiries are ongoing, and we are working closely with English Heritage, Wiltshire police said in a statement, referring to the charity that manages historic sites around the U.K.

Just Stop Oil issued a statement Wednesday acknowledging that the Labour Party has committed to stopping future oil and gas drilling licenses if they win.

However, we all know this is not enough, a spokesperson said. Continuing to burn coal, oil and gas will result in the death of millions. We have to come together to defend humanity or we risk everything.

Lynch, a student from Oxford, said in a statement: Stonehenge at solstice is all about celebrating the natural world  but look at the state its in! We all have a right to live a life free from suffering, but continued burning of oil, coal and gas is leading to death and suffering on an unparalleled scale.

Naidu, who is from Birmingham, added: Either we end the fossil fuel era, or the fossil fuel era will end us.



Related...
UK at loggerheads with US and Germany over Ukraine joining Nato

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, has requested a firm timeline for his country to join Nato

The United States and Germany have derailed a European plan to grant Ukraine an irreversible path to Nato membership.

Washington and Berlin have instead thrown their weight behind offering Volodymyr Zelensky a lighter commitment to membership of the military alliance.

A group of European countries, including the UK, had hoped to describe Kyivs path to join the alliance as irreversible in a communique to be signed off at a summit next month.

But the US is pushing for watered-down language, describing the process as a well-lit bridge to membership with no concrete timeline.

The original language was devised as a compromise solution, with the US and Germany reluctant to set out a concrete timeline amid fears the move would trigger an escalation from Russia.

A number of Ukraines most ardent supporters had hoped to agree on very forward-leaning language that could be interpreted as an invitation for membership in talks over the joint statement, Nato sources said.

Joe Biden, the US president, has said he opposes the 'Natoisation' of Ukraine - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP/ Getty Images

Referring to US and German opposition to the enhanced offer, a source close to discussions said: Those two countries will be mighty relieved if we stay away from an invitation.

And anything short of that irreversibility, I think thats digestible for them.

At last years Nato summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, members agreed that Ukraines future is in Nato, but declined to offer a deadline for it to join the alliance.

There is an expectation that the language in this years statement should serve as Vilnius plus, building on the original pledge to Ukraine and giving greater assurances that Natos collective defence clause will eventually protect it.

The Telegraph understands this years meeting, to be held from July 9 in Washington DC, will not see any further offerings on the timeline but will involve new security guarantees for Ukraine from members.

Jens Stoltenberg, current Nato Secretary-General, with Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine's president - REUTERS

US officials are reportedly concerned that describing the path to joining the alliance as irreversible would be unacceptable to some members, including Hungary.

However, some other members say that Ukraine has yet to meet the criteria for entry by reforming its government.

Joe Biden, the US president, said earlier this month that he opposed the Nato-isation of Ukraine as part of a peace deal with Russia, pointing to corruption in Kyiv.

Antony Blinken, his secretary of state, said that Nato would provide concrete steps to bring Ukraine closer this year, and create a bridge to membershipthat is strong and well-lit.

Escalation with Russia

Some believe that setting a deadline for Ukraine to join the alliance risks dragging the whole bloc into a war with Russia if peace is not achieved by that date.

Under the terms of the North Atlantic Treaty, an attack on one member state is considered an attack on them all.

If Ukraine joined the alliance while at war with Russia, all other signatories to the treaty would be obliged to come to its aid.

Mr Zelensky has repeatedly requested a firm timeline for Ukraine to join the bloc, arguing that its membership would deter Russia on the countrys Eastern flank, where the war continues.

At last years summit, he described the vague membership offer when conditions are met as unprecedented and absurd.

The Ukrainian presidents outburst was described as a disaster by a senior Nato official, who warned that the alliance had to avoid a repeat scenario in Washington.

We need to have a consensus before the Washington summit, they added.

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The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) has come under fire as more details emerged over the past weeks about leaks from the bureau and its handling of the scandal.

For nearly a month, the countrys key anti-corruption agency has been in turbulence. In late May, it was revealed that top employees of the agency were leaking information to suspects in a high-profile corruption investigation, and warning them about upcoming searches.

A month later, the investigation of the leak is ongoing, and the bureau hasnt given any public explanation, or fired anyone.

The independence of the agency is at stake. The corruption case concerns people affiliated with the Presidents Office, raising the question of whether the leak was a singular event, or a demonstration of the offices sway over the NABU, which is supposed to remain free from political influence.

More details have emerged since the scandal broke off, showing the extent of the leak.

Gizo Uglava, First Deputy Director of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine in an undated photo. (Wikimedia)

The alleged leaks were discovered after investigators seized a phone belonging to businessman Yury Holyk, who was under investigation in a high-profile corruption case. The phone contained copies of messages obtained by Holyk from an intermediary who allegedly talked with NABU employees from 2021 through 2023.

The leaked correspondence, which has been published by investigative journalists, involves several people linked to the Presidents Office. The office did not respond to requests for comment.

At the center of the accusations is the NABU's first deputy head, Gizo Uglava, who has been the agencys second-in-command for more than nine years. Uglava is being investigated in the leak case and has been suspended at his own request.

NABU Chief Semen Kryvonos has also been lambasted by anti-corruption activists due to what they see as his failure to react to the leak scandal quickly and adequately and to fire Uglava. Kryvonos said he wouldnt make any such decisions before the investigation is completed.

"The main thing is results," Vitaly Shabunin, head of the Anti-Corruption Action Centers executive board, said on Facebook on June 11. "Namely, the absence of further leaks from the NABU to suspects and punishment for those responsible. And at this stage its already impossible to achieve that without firing Gizo Uglava."

Kryvonos denied the accusations of wrongdoing. The NABU and Uglava did not respond to requests for comment, and Uglava made no public comments on the matter.

Corruption case undermined

In May, the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) opened a case into abuse of power and an alleged leak of investigative information by the NABU.

Law enforcement sources told the Kyiv Independent that Uglava and Valery Polyuha, a NABU detective, were under investigation in the leak case.

The information was leaked in the case into an alleged corruption scheme as part of the government's "Big Construction" project, which has run since 2020, according to law enforcement sources and leaked correspondence published by the Bihus.Info investigative journalism outlet.

The NABU allegedly leaked information in the interests of Holyk, a businessman who is under investigation in the Big Construction case.

Holyk has overseen an alleged corruption scheme in the government's major construction projects, and his firm has obtained huge revenue from them, according to an investigation by Bihus.Info published in October.

Holyk does not have an official role at the Presidents Office but, according to investigative journalists, he is acting in the interests of the office. As of August 2023, when investigative journalists of Bihus.Info followed him, Holyk visited the President's Office daily, prompting journalists to allege he unofficially works there. He denied it.

Apart from Holyk, Zelensky's former Deputy Chief of Staff Kyrylo Tymoshenko and ex-Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Governor Valentyn Reznichenko have also been investigated in the "Big Construction" corruption case, according to law enforcement sources.

Reznichenko and Holyk, who used to be an aide to Reznichenko, have been investigated over awarding construction contracts at inflated prices to a company linked to them.

As a result of the leaks, most of the evidence in the "Big Construction" corruption case has been lost, and searches gave no results, a law enforcement source told the Kyiv Independent. Due to this, there is virtually no evidence against Holyk now, and there are no grounds to charge him, according to the source.

Holyk has left Ukraine, using a permit from the authorities to bypass the ban on leaving the country for men between the age of 18 and 60, the Ukrainian news site Dzerkalo Tyzhnia reported on June 13, citing sources at the State Border Guard.

Holyk confirmed on June 13 that he had left Ukraine using a system set up for volunteers helping the military but added that he would return on June 17, the Ukrainian media outlet Suspilne reported. It is not clear if he has returned.

Yury Holyk, a businessman who is under investigation in the Big Construction case, in an undated photo. (Wikidata)

Leaked correspondence

The leak case was opened a year after the SAPO and NABU seized a phone belonging to Holyk as part of the Big Construction investigation. A law enforcement source told the Kyiv Independent that it took a while to hack into the phone.

According to law enforcement sources, Georgy Birkadze, an alleged intermediary, talked to NABU employees on Telegram, photographed the messages and sent the photos to Holyk. The messages were later deleted but the photographs were kept in the cache of Holyk's phone, where they were found.

In secret Telegram chats, one cannot take a screenshot without notifying ones interlocutor. To take a photograph of messages, one would have to use another phone.

Read also: Oleg Sukhov: US should sanction these 2 symbols of Ukraines corruption

Birkadze, an advisor at the Presidents Office and ex-head of Kyiv Oblasts Brovary district administration, did not deny that the correspondence was his in an interview with Bihus.Info but denied the accusations of wrongdoing.

Birkadze received information from the NABU on corruption investigations into the Okhmadit clinic and Oleksandr Trukhin, a former MP from President Volodymyr Zelenskys Servant of the People party, according to leaked correspondence published by Bihus.Info.

Birkadze also obtained information on forensic assessments, as well as wiretapping and search warrants, in the Holyk case.

In January 2023 Birkadze told Holyk that, according to his interlocutor from the NABU, the Holyk "case should be closed as soon as possible" because "it's dangerous."

"Remember the big case against you?" Birkadze wrote. "He said they would close it as a gift for me. He said that soon there would be a new (NABU) chief. Fuck knows what will happen. That's why we'll close it now and forget about it."

Among others, Birkadze and the NABU employees mention Kolya  an apparent reference to Mykola Bezzubenko, an acquaintance of Birkadze, former SBU official and aide at the President's Office, according to Bihus.Info.

Zelensky's former deputy chief of staff Tymoshenko is also mentioned as Birkadze's "boss" in the correspondence. Tymoshenko still worked at the Presidents Office at the time of the correspondence and resigned in 2023.

Georgy Birkadze, an aide at the Presidents Office and former head of Kyiv Oblasts Brovary District Administration, in undated photo. (Georgy Birkadze/Facebook)

Uglavas role

One of Birkadze's key interlocutors is not named in the correspondence. Instead of the name, a Japanese flag is used  an apparent reference to the "Japanese", a nickname for NABU employees. It implies that the messages come from a source inside the NABU.

Law enforcement sources told the Kyiv Independent that this could be either Uglava or someone who got information from Uglava and was passing it on.

Uglava was a prosecutor and member of ex-Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvilis reformist team in Georgia in the 2000s. He has been the first deputy chief of the NABU since 2015  essentially, the NABUs second-in-command. He served as the acting chief of the NABU from 2022 through 2023, when the selection of a new chief was taking place.

The interlocutor that used the Japanese flag for identification told Birkadze in October 2022 that former Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov wanted to meet him.

"Kubrakov knows that we are investigating him and that's why he wants to see me," the interlocutor said.

Kubrakov told Bihus.Info that he had met Uglava several days after the message was sent.

Birkadze also refers to one of his interlocutors as a "compatriot"  an apparent reference to the fact that both Birkadze and Uglava are Georgians. They also discuss Georgian food such as khachapuri and lobio.

A law enforcement source told the Kyiv Independent that only Uglava could have access to all the information mentioned in the correspondence.

"However, the style and semantics of the messages don't match Uglava's," the source said. "Uglava is likely the source but most likely he didn't write the messages."

Birkadze's interlocutor writes grammatically correct, long messages but Uglava usually writes short messages with grammatical errors, according to the source.

Another law enforcement source also told the Kyiv Independent that the messages were not written by Uglava.

"It's not his style at all," the source said.

A third law enforcement source told the Kyiv Independent that several versions are being investigated: the messages were either written by Uglava himself, or by someone on his orders, or Birkadze typed them up himself based on information from the NABU to present them to Holyk.

According to one of the versions, the messages were translated from Georgian to Russian.

"The content of these messages could be known only to a very limited number of people. Taking into account the fact that the correspondence continued for several years, only one person worked at the bureau during the whole period of the correspondence and could have access to the whole relevant amount of information and documents," the source told the Kyiv Independent, in a reference to Uglava.

The source added that other evidence also indicated Uglava's involvement in the leaks.

Read also: Ex-Supreme Court chief charged with bribery released on bail, can return to work

Olena Shcherban, a lawyer at the Anti-Corruption Action Center, told the Kyiv Independent that only Uglava could know the whole amount of information about different cases and different NABU units mentioned in Birkadze's correspondence with the interlocutor with a Japanese flag. An ordinary detective could not know all of this information, she added.

"I don't know whether or not Uglava wrote them himself or through other people," Olena Shcherban, a lawyer at the Anti-Corruption Action Center, told the Kyiv Independent. "But I'm convinced that he's responsible for it."

Uglava's involvement is also proven by the fact that he interfered in the leak case and tried to give orders to detectives, Shcherban said, citing her sources.

The correspondence mentions that the interlocutor had a conflict with Andriy Kaluzhnysky, former head of the NABU's chief investigative department. Shcherban believes this also proves that Uglava is implicated since he clashed with Kaluzhynsky.

Ukraine's Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov during the Ukraine Recovery Conference in London, U.K on June 22, 2023. (Chris J. Ratcliffe/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Head of NABU responds

Kryvonos, who became the NABU's head in March 2023, has also come under fire for his reaction to the leak scandal.

The Anti-Corruption Action Center and Shabunin, head of the centers executive board, have criticized Kryvonos for not firing Uglava.

Kryvonos responded to the accusations on Facebook on June 11.

"As head of the NABU, I've been a target of various campaigns to discredit me  from absurd and baseless accusations that I'm linked to the President's Office to (the allegations) of ineffectiveness," Kryvonos wrote. "Since the public campaign launched by Vitaly Shabunin and the Anti-Corruption Action Center around the leak case has been transformed into a genuine personal witch hunt, I've decided to respond publicly."

He said that a criminal investigation had been opened into the leak because it gives more tools and opportunities than an internal probe.

Kryvonos also said that internal probes had been opened into alleged pressure on whistleblowers and alleged illegal orders given to detectives.

"I will make any decisions, including human resource ones, exclusively based on investigations and in accordance with legal procedure," he said in a reference to the demands for firing Uglava.

Semen Kryvonos, chairman of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine, reports at a press conference on the results of work for the second half of 2023 in Kyiv, Ukraine on Feb. 21, 2024. (Viktor Kovalchuk/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)

Shabunin responded to Kryvonos' statement on the same day, saying that nothing prevents him from carrying out both an internal probe and a criminal investigation.

"It seems that Kryvonos is reluctant to fire Uglava quickly as part of an internal probe," he said.

In contrast with an internal probe, a criminal investigation may take years, according to Shabunin.

Shabunin also argued that Kryvyonos had dragged his feet on launching the criminal case into the leak since it had been opened only two weeks after he found out about the leak.

"Kryvonos has failed to start a pre-trial investigation on time and did not ensure key conditions for a successful and objective investigation: confidentiality and speed," Shabunin added. "For at least two weeks, we have known about Uglava's attempts to interfere in investigations and his unethical behavior but there are still no conclusions or results based on these facts."

Vitaly Shabunin, head of the Anti-Corruption Action Centers executive board, speaks at the Ukrainian school of political studies on Sept. 26, 2019. (Ukrainian school of political studies/Facebook)

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NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has said that ahead of the NATO summit in Washington on 9-11 July, the allies are discussing and resolving many issues regarding Ukraine.

Source: Stoltenberg at a joint press conference with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken after a meeting in Washington

Details: Stoltenberg reiterated the plan agreed by NATO to train and assist Ukraine in the security sector and said he expected new announcements on more military support for Ukraine.

"I'm certain that we also have language expressing that Ukraine will become a member of the Alliance.... The exact language, [exactly] what we will agree is what Allies are now [discussing] among Allies but I'm confident to have a good solution agreement by the summit," he said.

Stoltenberg also expressed his firm belief that the stronger the Alliance's support and the more reliable the long-term commitment to Ukraine, the sooner the war will end.

Background:

Earlier, Blinken said that the NATO summit in Washington in July should provide a "bridge" to Ukraine's membership in the Alliance.

US Ambassador to NATO Julianne Smith said that there would be important changes in the wording regarding the prospect of Ukraine's membership in NATO at the meeting of the NATO leaders in Washington.

She added that NATO had agreed on the need to give a political signal about Ukraine moving closer to the Alliance and that this signal would be part of the overall package of assistance to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian government said that the NATO summit decision would contain a specific position on the irreversibility of Ukraine's membership.

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Ukraine and EU negotiated security agreement, it is to be signed soon

Ukraine and the European Union have completed the final round of negotiations on a bilateral security agreement, which they intend to sign soon.

Source: Office of the President of Ukraine, cited by European Pravda

Details: The final round of security document discussions was led by Ihor Zhovkva, Deputy Chairman of Ukraines Security Council, and Charles Fries, Deputy Secretary General for Peace, Security and Defence, European External Action Service.

Quote: "The negotiating teams of Ukraine and the EU have completed the coordination of the text of the security agreement and agreed to sign it in the near future," the statement said.

According to media reports, EU ambassadors have already reached an agreement on a draft bilateral security pact between Ukraine and the EU, which is expected to be finalised by the end of June.

In the draft agreement, the EU agrees to continue providing military aid to Ukraine, assist it with military training, mine action and defence sector reforms, collaborate in countering hybrid threats and cyber attacks, and assist the Ukrainian government with recovery.

European officials emphasised that the deal is not the same as NATO's collective defence, rather a pledge to supply Ukraine with weapons and other aid to bolster its security and deter any future invasions.

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Amidst a somewhat directionless Australian market, with the ASX200 showing minimal movement and commodities experiencing varied trends, investors continue to seek opportunities that stand out from broader market fluctuations. In this context, growth companies with high insider ownership can be particularly appealing as they often signal strong confidence from those closest to the companys operations and future prospects.

Top 10 Growth Companies With High Insider Ownership In Australia

Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth Hartshead Resources (ASX:HHR) 13.9% 86.3% Cettire (ASX:CTT) 28.7% 30.1% Acrux (ASX:ACR) 14.6% 115.3% Doctor Care Anywhere Group (ASX:DOC) 28.4% 96.4% Plenti Group (ASX:PLT) 12.8% 106.4% Hillgrove Resources (ASX:HGO) 10.4% 45.4% Change Financial (ASX:CCA) 26.6% 85.4% Botanix Pharmaceuticals (ASX:BOT) 11.4% 120.9% Liontown Resources (ASX:LTR) 16.4% 63.9% SiteMinder (ASX:SDR) 11.3% 72.7%

Click here to see the full list of 91 stocks from our Fast Growing ASX Companies With High Insider Ownership screener.

Let's review some notable picks from our screened stocks.

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Botanix Pharmaceuticals Limited, based in Australia, focuses on the research and development of dermatology and antimicrobial products with a market capitalization of approximately A$519.80 million.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from its research and development activities in dermatology and antimicrobial products, totaling approximately A$0.44 million.

Insider Ownership: 11.4%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 120.4% p.a.

Botanix Pharmaceuticals, with a modest A$437K in revenue, is poised for significant expansion. The company's Return on Equity is expected to be very high at 43.9% in three years, complemented by a projected annual earnings growth rate of 120.89%. Despite these promising figures, Botanix faces challenges such as less than one year of cash runway and recent shareholder dilution. On May 6, 2024, the firm discussed its commercial launch plans for SofdraO as it nears approval.

ASX:BOT Ownership Breakdown as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Capricorn Metals Ltd is an Australian company focused on the evaluation, exploration, development, and production of gold properties, with a market capitalization of approximately A$1.77 billion.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from its Karlawinda segment, totaling approximately A$356.94 million.

Story continues

Insider Ownership: 12.3%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 14.1% p.a.

Capricorn Metals is set to outpace the Australian market with its revenue and earnings growth forecasted at 14.1% and 26.5% per year, respectively. Despite a lack of recent insider buying and significant one-off items affecting its financial results, the company's Return on Equity is expected to reach a high of 30.6% in three years. However, it faces challenges as profit margins have decreased from last year's 25.4% to just 5.2%.

ASX:CMM Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Technology One Limited is an Australian company that develops, markets, sells, implements, and supports integrated enterprise business software solutions both domestically and internationally, with a market capitalization of A$5.97 billion.

Operations: The company generates revenue through three primary segments: software sales contributing A$317.24 million, corporate services at A$83.83 million, and consulting services totaling A$68.13 million.

Insider Ownership: 12.3%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 11.1% p.a.

Technology One, an Australian software company, shows promise with its insider ownership structure supporting a growth narrative. The company's revenue and earnings are forecasted to grow at 11.1% and 14.3% per year respectively, outpacing the broader Australian market rates of 5.4% and 13.7%. Although this growth is robust, it does not reach the high-growth benchmark of over 20%. Recent financials underscore this trajectory with a reported increase in half-year revenue to A$240.83 million from A$201.01 million year-on-year and net income rising to A$48 million from A$41.28 million.

ASX:TNE Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Jun 2024

Key Takeaways

Delve into our full catalog of 91 Fast Growing ASX Companies With High Insider Ownership 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.

Take control of your financial future using Simply Wall St, offering free, in-depth knowledge of international markets to every investor.

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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 analysis only considers stock directly held by insiders. It does not include indirectly owned stock through other vehicles such as corporate and/or trust entities. All forecast revenue and earnings growth rates quoted are in terms of annualised (per annum) growth rates over 1-3 years.

Companies discussed in this article include ASX:BOT ASX:CMM and ASX:TNE.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Since the first great tank battle at Cambrai on November 20, 1917, the great and the good have foretold the end of these armoured beasts. Yet over 100 years later, the metal box with tracks and a gun is still tearing up the battlefields of eastern Europe. The adaptability of the basic tank platform is as valuable today as it was at Cambrai.

Ukraine has upended assumptions about the future of warfare. In the West, we armchair generals have viewed technology as the route to victory. Our own Ministry of Defence may have taken this too far, and a new government will need to address it as a matter of urgency. Ground war in Europe with Russia is still a possibility, but hardly a reality with our 100 tanks and 70,000 soldiers.

The new scourge of mass drone attacks is focusing minds. Our Defence Science and Technology Laboratory seems to have an answer with its Dragon Fire laser system, which can shoot down multiple drones at 10 a shot, but not for a few years. The Germans, masters of armoured warfare development, may have come up with a viable solution: the Frankenstein tank which is apparently already on its way to Ukraine.

This modified Leopard 1 tank, with a 35mm Skymaster automatic machine gun, will strike fear into Vladimir Putins heart. Most importantly it is ready soon, can shoot down multiple drones at low cost, is highly mobile, and provides a high level of protection to the crew. We have also already seen 35mm calibre guns on other vehicles take out Russian tanks on multiple occasions.

Using expensive missiles to shoot down thousands of cheap drones is unsustainable, and has been exploited by the Russian invaders. But this tank, with thousands of rounds of cheap ammunition, can take on the task. Another important element is that Rheinmetall, the tank manufacturer, has opened a workshop in Ukraine. This is a vital step towards giving Kyiv what it needs to win: producing and repairing weaponry in-country, rather than relying on costly, sometimes delayed, imports.

This could tip the balance in Ukraines favour as much as any weapon in the coming months. It seems likely that, he who wins the drone battle will win this war. At the moment Ukraine seems more adept and innovative in this area, and the advent of this tank could not only help spur on the ground forces to victory but also protect the towns and villages which are so often indiscriminately attacked by Russian drones.

The Frankenstein tank makes complete sense on the modern battlefield; it may be not a tank in the purest sense, but we tank men down the ages like to think we are flexible and adaptable. We did after all get off our horses in the First World War, to the huge chagrin of many.

Let us hope the designers of our new model army and our new Challenger 3 tank are taking note in Whitehall and Westminster.

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KHARKIV OBLAST, UkraineAn old green Soviet Lada, speeding, skids on a dirt road. Behind the car, thick black smoke billows into the June sky. A Russian Grad missile has just hit a small village about 10 kilometers from the front.

A hundred meters away, hidden by a camouflage net, in front of a 19th-century wooden house, Sacha, a soldier of the 247th Kharkiv Territorial Defense Brigade, goes about his morning ritual. With a fluid motion, he combs his long beard, which, resembling that of an Orthodox priest, earned him his war name: Kapelan (the chaplain). He fills a small leather gourd with yerba mate (a typical South American drink) before inserting a metal straw.

With his cap firmly on his head and his legs stretched out on a camping chair, Sacha can finally start his breakfast.

Sacha. (Photo by Joseph Roche.)

This mornings bombing didnt scare him much. A volunteer from the early days after Russias invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago, Sacha, originally from the region, has been in every battle. First in Kharkiv at the start of the war, then in Bakhmut before returning to Kharkiv in northeast Ukraine, where the Russians opened a new front on May 11 of this year.

Engaged on the northern front from the start of the Russian counteroffensive, the men of the 247th, supported by the rest of the Ukrainian army, managed to seal the breaches in the Ukrainian defense. They have kept the Russians at bay during the Kharkiv offensive, preventing them from crossing the river that runs through Vovchansk and from advancing further on the Liptsy front. Both U.S. and Ukrainian officials have declared the Kharkiv offensive a failure for the Russians.

We know the terrain very well, much better than the Russians, explains the soldier in his 30s. Weve fought here before and we are more motivated than ever to defend Kharkiv. Our families and friends live here.

Next to him, pensive, Oleksandra, the only woman in the brigade, squats. Her azure blue eyes get lost in the horizon that, under a June sky, shimmers with sunlight. Cigarette in mouth, Oleksandra bursts into laughter at every interaction and brings a swollen hand to her face. From digging trenches, explains the 33-year-old woman. I sprained my forearm.

Oleksandra. (Photo by Joseph Roche.)

Engaged since the beginning of the war, Oleksandra fights, cares for her fellow soldiers, and listens. The fights are tough, and you know how men are  they have trouble talking to each other, so Im here to listen. Over time, Ive become the brigades psychologist, she explains before bursting into laughter.

After a week of fighting, everyone tries to rest. Hearts are lighter and tense, stressed faces begin to relax.

On mission.

Viatcheslav, the 45-year-old brigade commander, walks briskly through a forest in Kharkiv Oblast. His eyes are fixed on the sky and the radio on his shoulder finally crackles: The sky is clear, no more drones, we can go. He and his troops came to scout a Ukrainian tank destroyed by a Russian drone in the Peremoha sector (victory in Ukrainian), a small village located between the third and second lines of the front.

A former MMA fighter in Kharkiv, Viatcheslav knows the region well. I used to play war here when I was a kid, the commander explains with a grin.

Though weeks of intense combat show on his face, his morale has rebounded. The fights have been very tough, Viatcheslav explains. Despite the limited equipment and men we had, we managed to stop the Russians and inflicted heavy losses on them. They tried very hard but completely failed to break our front.

For the commander, its proof that Ukraine will eventually win the war. We know why were fighting, he says. In contrast, when we capture Russians, we see that they are neither prepared nor motivated. To me, they dont stand a chance against us.

A Ukrainian soldier hides from Russian drones. (Photo by Joseph Roche.)

Despite Ukrainian success on the Kharkiv front, Ukrainian forces struggling to the east in the Donbas region continue to retreat day by day. For Hamlet, the 247ths chief drone operator, the dynamic in the Donbas isnt due to a Russian desire to pin Ukrainian forces in Kharkiv to prevent them from deploying to the eastern front. On the contrary, Hamlet believes Russian forces have pressed harder in the Donbas because the Ukrainian army was outgunned and struggling while waiting for the delivery of supplies as part of a new military aid package the U.S. Congress passed in April.

Viatcheslav, buoyed by Ukraines successes on the Kharkiv front, continues to believe in an imminent victory. The offensive wasnt a surprise and the Russians had to sacrifice many men and materials that they wont be able to use in the Donbass.

The commander also thinks the tough days are behind them and that Western aid on the front is beginning to make a difference. I cant reveal everything because its classified, but all I can say is that were seeing an improvement in our capabilities and our brigade has received more than we could have hoped for.

Hamlet confirms this as he heads out on another mission that night. Serhii, one of the brigades soldiers, helps him load his car with drones. Between trips, Hamlet praises the Western supplies.

Theres nothing better than American, French, or British weapons to strike deep, he says. So, of course, were happy to now be able to use them against Russian territory. But its hard, for now, to predict its impact. Only time will tell.

Hamlet, in the soft light of dusk, takes a last puff of his cigarette before leaving. He gestures, then starts his car and drives into the horizon without saying goodbye to anyone in his brigade.

He never returned. In a northern forest, a few days after his departure, a piece of shrapnel pierced his heart and ended his young life under a summer rain.

Hamlet. (Photo by Joseph Roche.)

Keeping the faith.

Returning from another mission just as Hamlet left for his final one, other soldiers of the brigade stationed in a wooden house busily prepare a meal. Vadim, 40, shirtless, cuts a chicken and prepares shashlik on a metal skewer. Next to him on a wooden chair, another soldier smokes a cigarette and heats a coffee pot on a small stove. All around a rusty metal grill, they relax and joke.

We dont know if well still be alive next week, so we live as if theres no tomorrow, says Serhii, explaining that they try to have a good time and eat well almost every evening.

Its also important to keep morale up and we need moments to relax, Viatcheslav adds. Theyve all been fighting since the beginning of the war and dont often see their families.

Yann, a former bus driver in Kharkiv, has only seen his wife and daughter for about 15 days since February 2022. At first, the hardest part was not seeing our family, he says. Then, it was Bakhmut where I was injured. Now, its the waiting, not knowing what tomorrow will bring.

Vadim skewers chicken for a shashlik dinner. (Photo by Joseph Roche.)

Sitting on a camp bed in a dusty room, Yann eventually gets up. The blue evening light plays across the prematurely aged lines of his face. With a sad look, he steps to the door, lights a cigarette, and stares out.

The sun sets over Viatcheslavs men and between the flames of a fire, the wind carries away Oleksandras laughter.

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(Bloomberg) -- Ukraine may invite Russia to the next meeting slated with international partners aimed at working out a formula for future peace talks, President Volodymyr Zelenskiys chief of staff said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Kremlin has repeatedly made clear it has no intention of engaging with the Ukrainian plan. But Andriy Yermak, Zelenskiys top adviser, raised the possibility as working groups prepare the details for a follow-up gathering after last weeks summit in Switzerland.

There is no timeframe for a subsequent meeting  and the much-speculated prospect of a second summit didnt appear in the final document of the June 15-16 meeting in Lucerne. While that meeting saw more than 100 nations and organizations in attendance, it fell short of its ultimate goal to build broader global support.

The working groups results will be part of this joint plan, which will be supported by a number of countries at a second meeting, Yermak said in a conference call late on Tuesday. We think it will be possible to invite representative of Russia.

Ukraines so-called blueprint for peace has always involved bringing Moscow to the negotiating table as the ultimate goal, but only after recruiting global leaders to Kyivs demands that Russian forces withdraw from occupied territory and recognize Ukraines borders.

But winning over governments from the Global South  above all China, but also countries including India and Brazil  has proved elusive. Many delegates outside the Western fold who came to the summit reinforced their point that a process that doesnt involve Russia is bound to fail.

India, Brazil and South Africa on Sunday opted out of signing the final communique, rounding out the so-called BRICS nations. Meanwhile, an official from Saudi Arabia, which Zelenskiy had courted, warned that Kyiv must be prepared for difficult compromise to put an end to the conflict.

President Vladimir Putin set out terms for peace talks on the eve of the gathering, calling on Ukraine to first surrender four of its eastern regions to Russia as well as renounces its ambition to join NATO. The demand was derided by Western allies along with Ukraine, which has repeatedly said giving up any of its territory is unacceptable.

Still, Yermak described the Swiss meeting as a success. The second summit will be more representative, the chief adviser said, adding its goal was to end the war and settle the crises it created.

Ukraine is realistic and open to input from other nations, he said, and is seeking to unite responsible countries on the basis of Ukraines blueprint, Yermak said of the plan he has spearheaded. China and Brazil have put forward a plan for peace that involves the participation of both war parties.

The situation on the battlefield may be a factor in future talks. So far, both sides appear to be locked in a stalemate along the more than 1,200-kilometer (750-mile) front line. The recent arrival of US military aid helped replenish Ukraines firepower and halted some of Russias advances.

Putin embarked on a rare visit to North Korea, its long-time partner suspected of sending missiles and millions of rounds of munitions to help Russias grinding assault on Ukraine.

(Updates with detail on summit from third paragraph.)

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Ukrferry, Ukraine's ferry operator in the Black Sea, has restored ferry service between Ukraine and Georgia, according to the schedule on the company's website.

Ukrferry suspended its operations with Georgia when the all-out war started on Feb. 24, 2022.

The sea voyage from the city of Chernomorsk in Ukraine's Odesa Oblast to the port of Batumi in Georgia will be the first between the countries since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion.

The first voyage is scheduled for July 2 and will last nearly 60 hours, according to the Ukrferry.

The route will be operated by the Kaunas ferry, built in 1989 in Germany. The length and width of the vessel are 190 and 28 meters, respectively, which minimizes pitching even in storm conditions.

The ferry accommodates 250 passengers, while its two cargo decks can carry 49 railroad cars and 50 heavy trucks simultaneously.

The Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (USPA) aims to restore domestic port infrastructure to at least the pre-war level in the next two years.

The state company needs up to Hr 9.5 billion ($234 million) for the restoration, according to Yurii Lytvyn, head of the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority.

Lytvyn announced in late May that Ukraine was at the final stage of negotiations to restore ferry traffic with Azerbaijan, Interfax Ukraine reported.

Read also: Russia still hasnt restored ferry crossing in Crimea after Ukraines recent strike, military says

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Key developments on June 19:

Russia, North Korea sign strategic partnership agreement

Russia has moved almost all ground forces from Finland's vicinity to Ukraine, media report

After a 'long lull,' Ukraine reports intensified Russian attacks near Toretsk in Donetsk Oblast

Denmark announces new aid package for Ukraine focused on F-16s, defense industry

Patriot missiles intended for Switzerland to go to Ukraine, Swiss outlet reports

Ukraine's Armed Forces on June 18 reported an increase in Russian attacks near the town of Toretsk, Donetsk Oblast, after a "long lull" in fighting in the area.

In a post on Telegram, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said its "intelligence, artillery, aviation, unmanned systems" were all working to repulse five attacks launched simultaneously.

"In the Toretsk direction, the Russian occupiers stepped up and started five assaults at once  in the areas of Niu-York, Pivnichne, and Pivdene," they wrote.

"The Defense Forces of Ukraine control the situation and repel the aggressor."

According to the crowd-sourced DeepState monitoring service, Russian forces were attacking in the direction of the villages of Pivnichne and Druzhba, just east of Toretsk.

In comments to AFP, residents of Toretsk reported an increase in attacks on the town.

"They started shooting in the morning and it was going on all day long," one person said.

Over the last few weeks, attention has been focused on Russia's stalled offensive in Kharkiv Oblast, but Russian troops have been steadily advancing in the country's easternmost Donetsk Oblast, which remains Moscow's primary target.

Moving west from the ruins of the two occupied Donetsk Oblast cities  Bakhmut and Avdiivka  Russian troops have overrun several small villages and come close to Chasiv Yar and a strategic highway south of the town.

Elsewhere, Russian troops are intensifying attacks in the border areas of Luhansk Oblast with the aim of capturing the village of Borova in neighboring Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine's 3rd Assault Brigade said on June 18.

In a post on Telegram, the brigade said Moscow's forces are using tanks, FPV drones, and anti-aircraft missiles in an effort to advance, and also claimed they had deployed chemical weapons, without providing further details.

"The front line in Kharkiv Oblast, bordering Luhansk Oblast, is today one of the most intense areas of the enemy's offensive," they wrote.

"The immediate task of the occupiers is to get to the (villages of) Cherneshchyna (and) Pershotravneve, with the subsequent seizure of Borova."

According to the crowd-sourced DeepState monitoring service, Russia has amassed 10,000 troops as part of a "shock fist" to capture the village.

Borova had been occupied by Russian forces in March 2022 but was liberated later that year during Ukraine's sweeping counteroffensive in Kharkiv Oblast.

Read also: With all eyes on Kharkiv, Russian troops take one Donbas village after another

Russia, North Korea sign strategic partnership agreement

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed on June 19 the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement in Pyongyang, the Kremlin's press service reported.

Under the treaty, the two countries pledge to provide aid to one another if either is attacked, Putin said at a press conference after the signing ceremony.

Putin arrived in North Korea on June 18 in a sign of the deepening relations between the two pariah countries, as Pyongyang supplied Moscow with extensive military supplies for use on Ukrainian battlefields.

The two leaders led hours-long talks before signing the treaty. The North Korean dictator claimed the agreement is of a "peaceful and defensive nature" and called Russia his country's "most honorable friend and ally."

Details of the treaty remain unclear, but Putin said that Russia "does not rule out the development of military-technical cooperation with North Korea" in connection to the newly signed agreement.

"I have no doubt that (the treaty) will become a driving force of a new multipolar world. Time has changed. The status of (North Korea) and the Russian Federation in the global geopolitical structure has also changed," Kim said at a press conference.

North Korea's leader also said the agreement provides for cooperation in the economic, political, and military spheres.

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With Russia's military stocks running low and domestic production capacity simultaneously hampered by Western sanctions, North Korea has been shaping up to be Russia's leading weapons supplier.

Moscow has reportedly received extensive military packages from Pyongyang, including ballistic missiles and around 5 million artillery shells.

As part of his visit to North Korea, Putin and Kim also signed treaties on on cooperation in healthcare, science, and the construction of a border bridge across the Tumen River.

According to the Russian state-controlled news agency Interfax, the new partnership agreement replaces previous documents signed between the two countries in 1961, 2000, and 2001.

Read also: Putin lands in North Korea looking for support, weapons, validation

Russia has moved almost all ground forces from Finland's vicinity to Ukraine, media report

Russia has moved the vast majority of its ground forces previously stationed near Finland to take part in the war in Ukraine, the Finnish public broadcaster Yle reported on June 19, citing an undisclosed Finnish military intelligence source.

These revelations stand in contrast to previous claims by Russia on reinforcing its troops near the Finnish border in response to the Nordic country's entry into NATO.

"On average, 80% of the equipment and soldiers have been transferred to the war in Ukraine," the high-ranking military intelligence source told Yle.

According to the source, the situation is similar in other Russian regions except for Moscow Oblast. This concerns mainly the Ground Forces, as air defenses, the Air Force, and the Navy remain relatively well-manned, Yle reported.

The numbers of soldiers stationed in bases near the Finnish borders sometimes fluctuate as Russia draws new conscripts, but "all contract soldiers have been sent to do real work," the source said.

After Russian professional contractors suffered heavy losses in Ukraine, Russia began to partially mobilize its population to fill up the ranks.

Satellite imagery obtained by Yle confirmed certain changes. For example, dozens of units and equipment stationed in a military base near Petrozavodsk (a city some 200 kilometers from the Finnish border) in June 2023 disappeared as of May 2024.

At the same time, new facilities appeared, likely for servicing equipment damaged in the war or accommodations for conscripts undergoing basic training, Yle wrote.

A number of NATO officials have warned that NATO should prepare itself for a possible open confrontation with Russia in the coming years. The Finnish intelligence estimates it can take between three to five years for the Russian military to recuperate from its losses in Ukraine.

The tensions between the military bloc and Moscow have been mounting since the West threw its support behind Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.

Finland entered NATO in April 2023, extending the NATO-Russian border by roughly 1,340 kilometers (830 miles).

Read also: Russias move on Kharkiv has bogged down. But was it a failure?

Denmark announces new aid package for Ukraine focused on F-16s, defense industry

Denmark on June 18 announced its 19th assistance package for Ukraine, including financial support for Ukraine's defense industry, equipment for F-16 fighter jets, and donations from Danish military stocks.

The first Danish F-16s are scheduled to arrive in Ukraine this summer. Kyiv expects to receive the aircraft from other countries as well, including Netherlands, Belgium, and Norway.

As part of Copenhagen's commitment to supporting Ukraine for the next 10 years, the country has developed a donation model via the Ukrainian defense industry to help directly develop Ukraine's military production.

The 19th package will allow the use of the sum of 1.2 billion Danish kroner (over $170 million) allocated under the two most recent packages to quickly meet Ukraine's needs. The first donations should begin this summer.

"Europe is at a fateful moment. Russia's war against Ukraine has been going on for over two years, and the situation on the battlefield is dire," Danish Foreign Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen said.

"Investing in the Ukrainian defense industry is an effective and sustainable way to support Ukrainian combat capability, both here and now and in the long term."

Denmark has already allocated 64.8 billion Danish kroner (over $9 billion) in military aid under its Ukraine fund for the period of 2023-2028.

Read also: Opinion: Will the renewed US support for Ukraine be enough?

Patriot missiles intended for Switzerland to go to Ukraine, Swiss outlet reports

U.S.-made missiles for the Patriot air defense system manufactured for Switzerland are to be delivered to Ukraine despite contractual obligations, the Swiss outlet Blick reported on June 19, citing undisclosed sources.

According to Blick, Bern has an order totaling $340 million with Washington for the PAC-3 variant of the missile.

Sources told the outlet that the U.S. has decided to delay delivery to Switzerland and send them instead to Ukraine, which is in dire need of the weapons to protect against Russian aerial attacks.

The PAC-3 missile is the most advanced used by the Patriot air defense system and is effective against ballistic missiles. Each missile costs $4.1 million.

They are in high demand as European countries seek to bolster their own air defenses amid rising tensions with Russia.

A German-led initiative is seeking to get more Patriot missiles to Ukraine, with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius on June 11 announcing 68 were on their way to Kyiv.

The decision comes as Ukraine faces increased Russian attacks on its population centers and infrastructure.

Pistorius emphasized the urgency of strengthening Ukraine's air defenses, referencing his recent visit to Odesa, where he observed the devastating effects of Russian missile strikes. He also unveiled an aid package valued at 500 million euros ($542 million).

Berlin launched the initiative in April amid Kyiv's increasingly dire need for air defenses, facing heavy Russian aerial attacks against population centers and the energy grid.

A number of countries have already backed the initiative since then, including Belgium, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands, Norway, and others.

On June 13, Washington denied reports that the U.S. is planning to deliver another Patriot battery to Ukraine.

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Ukraine's Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin announced that his office and the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) had launched official investigations into the assets of Kostin's Deputy Prosecutor General, Dmytro Verbytskyi.

Kostin said that his office initiated an internal probe into Verbytskyi following several RFE/RL articles suggesting that Verbytskyi and his girlfriend own a luxury car and expensive homes in affluent areas of Kyiv, which appeared to be beyond their expected salaries as public officials.

The Prosecutor General also said that NABU had launched its own investigation into Verbytskyi's assets.

On June 19, Kostin failed to show up in the Verkhovna Rada, where he had been summoned by lawmakers over the RFE/RL articles on his Deputy.

Kostin reportedly drafted a letter to House Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk asking to postpone parliamentary discussion on the issue until the results of the probe had been delivered.

"I had a conversation with Mr. Verbytskyi," Kostin reportedly said in the letter. "He gave me his arguments and explanations about the situation. He is conducting several high-profile proceedings, the participants of which are very interested in his suspension or dismissal."

The RFE/RL report alleges that Verbytskyi lives in a two-story townhouse in the elite area of Konyk in Kyiv, which his nephew purchased under power of attorney for a businessman registered in Odesa for six times lower than the market value.

An earlier RFE/RL article suggests that Verbytskiy's girlfriend, Khrystyna Ilnytska, received a new Porsche car and a three-story townhouse in the same Konyk neighborhood estimated to be worth at least 52 million hryvnias ($1,270,000).

Ilnytska's official income declarations over the last decade amounted to a little more than 360,000 hryvnias ($8,800).

Read also: Declaration of Zelensky staffer charged with bribery reveals huge earnings

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In the short term, Ukrhydroenergo, Ukraine's hydroelectric power regulator, plans to restore 1 GW of power generation capacity, and rebuilding the facilities capable of producing another 2.4 GW is in the long-term construction plans.

Source: Ukrhydroenergo's press service

Details: About 45% of the company's total capacity was destroyed by Russian troops. In total, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, 118 missile strikes have been launched at Ukrhydroenergo's plants.

"Currently, the company's short-term plans include the intensive recovery of 1000 MW of capacity to ensure the normal passage of the autumn and winter period. Long-term plans include the construction of 2500 MW of new capacities (completion of the Dniester Pumped Storage Power Station and construction of the Kaniv Pumped Storage Power Station). In addition, the key project is the recovery of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant," the statement said.

At the same time, the company is stepping up cooperation with international partners to restore energy infrastructure as soon as possible. Ukrhydroenergo is also accumulating water resources to reduce the workload of the power system in the peak consumption months.

Background:

Ukrhydroenergo estimates that Kakhovka HPP can be restored in 6-7 years after the region is liberated. Earlier it was reported that it would take at least 5 years.

Ukrhydroenergo has ordered the installation of anti-drone defences and the rebuilding of facilities at various HPPs for a total of UAH 10.39 billion (US$256 million).

The dam at Kakhovka HPP was blown up by the Russians in summer 2023, causing an estimated UAH 78 billion (almost US$2 billion) of environmental damage.

Ukrhydroenergo initiated an investment arbitration procedure against Russia so that it would compensate for the damage caused by the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power plant.

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Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU) has identified Russian assassins of four Ukrainian prisoners of war.

Source: DIU

Details: In the second half of May 2024, near the village of Robotyne in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russian military personnel committed another war crime, executing Ukrainian prisoners of war.

The execution was captured on video: four unarmed Ukrainian soldiers surrendered, and the Russians forced them to lie face down and shot them point-blank.

DIU experts have identified those involved in the war crime  they turned out to be the Russians who were part of the assault group of the 70th Motorised Rifle Regiment (Military Unit 71718) of the 42nd Motorised Rifle Division of the 58th Army of Russia's Southern Military District.

The permanent deployment point of the specified military unit is located in the city of Shali, Chechnya, Russia.

At the time of the execution of Ukrainian prisoners of war near Robotyne, the 70th Motorised Rifle Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces was led by Lieutenant Colonel Yuri "Bison" Abayev, born on 10 December 1990.

Other servicemen of the 70th Motorised Rifle Regiment of the Russian occupation army are also involved in the war crime. Their names and ranks are as follows:

Captain Dmitri Olegovich Nagorny, born on 21 November 1995, the commander of the 2nd Battalion.

Senior Lieutenant Temirlan Umarovich Abutalimov, born on 2 May 1997, the commander of the 1st Assault Company.

Lieutenant Zaur Sergeyevich Bekov, born on 16 July 1997, the commander of the 3rd Assault Company.

Senior Lieutenant Yusup Payzulaevich Imagazaliyev, born on 18 July 1999, the commander of the 6th Assault Company.

DIU states these Russian war criminals may also be involved in the murder of several more Ukrainian prisoners of war later in May 2024.

This is confirmed by the intercepted radio communications from the 70th Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces, during which one of the commanders of a Russian assault company gives orders to his subordinates to shoot Ukrainian soldiers.

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Ukraine's global peace summit concluded on June 16 with 78 countries and five institutions signing a joint communique so far.

While 92 countries participated in the summit, several key countries declined to ultimately sign the communique. Since the original document was released, three countriesRwanda, Iraq, and Jordanhave seemingly withdrawn their signatures.

Notably absent from the list of countries that signed the document were India, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, and the majority of the Global South. China, a key Russian ally, declined to take part in the summit.

More than half of the communique signatories came from Europe. When counting other key Western allies outside of Europe  the U.S., Canada, and Australia  the disparity is even more stark.

Six South American countries joined the declaration, together with 10 African countries and eight Asian countries signing, including Japan and South Korea, which are firmly in the Western camp.

Antigua and Barbuda, which did not attend the summit, later joined the communique.

Read also: Peace summit smart way to combat Russian propaganda, Australian representative says

More than two years into Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine's diplomatic attempts to engage the Global South have largely failed.

Despite significant efforts and a large turnout, the global peace summit remained a largely Western affair that was mostly unsuccessful in its attempt to expand the coalition of Ukraine supporters, said Michael Kugelman, director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center, in written comments to the Kyiv Independent.

The big players  China, India, Brazil

China and India, the two largest countries in the world and the second and third biggest economies, respectively, did not sign the document.

While Beijing has said that it does not support Russia militarily, it remains one of its key allies, providing key financial and diplomatic support. China has also been Moscow's key supplier of dual-use technology.

Getting China to turn on its ally Russia was always a long shot, and China's absence was not a surprise, despite Ukraine's efforts to bring Beijing to the summit.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric (right) and President Volodymyr Zelensky during a press event on the second day of a global summit on peace in Ukraine in Switzerland on June 16, 2024. (Gabriel Boric/X)

India's refusal to sign the communique was also not totally unexpected but remained a blow to Ukraine's attempt to court the Global South.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not attend, nor did Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Instead, India was represented by Pavan Kapoor, India's former ambassador to Russia.

Following the summit, Kapoor said India could not sign the communique because "only those options acceptable to both the parties can lead to abiding peace."

The sentiment was echoed by Brazilian President Lula da Silva and Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto, both of whom declined to participate in the summit and sent officials in their stead, citing Russia's absence as a chief factor.

'A pro-West, anti-Russia affair'

U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan characterized the talks as a "tremendous success" and said that it demonstrated there was "broad and deep support for a just peace."

But in the Global South, the feeling was largely different. With Russia's unwillingness to join the talks, the achievable outcomes of the summit were always in question.

"Rightly or wrongly, the perception there and in India is that the peace summit was a pro-West and anti-Russia affair," said Kugelman.

Due to this sentiment, Kugelman said there is hesitance in the Global South to be seen as "doing anything that can be perceived as siding too much with one camp."

India, often considered one of the leaders of the developing world, "may be the most prominent proponent of strategic autonomy, but it's actually a policy embraced by much of the Global South."

Even if India were to take the lead and encourage other countries to follow suit, "India itself wouldn't want to be seen as pressuring countries to take a particular stand on sensitive geopolitical issues," Kugelman said.

To a certain extent, there is a historical precedent at work. The Soviet Union expended significant effort to court the Global South and portray itself as a champion of anti-colonialism, and its support for India vis-a-vis its primary geopolitical foe Pakistan, long backed by the U.S., still garners Russia residual goodwill.

Russia remains a strategic partner to India, supplying it with arms and energyand the latter has only increased since the beginning of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine and subsequent partial isolation.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris (C/L) and President Volodymyr Zelensky (C/R) take part in talks with their respective delegations during the Global Peace Summit at the luxury Burgenstock resort, near Lucerne in central Switzerland, on June 15, 2024. (Dimitar Dilkoff /AFP via Getty Images)

Speaking shortly before Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba's first-ever visit to India in March 2024, Jaishankar was candid about India's pragmatic approach toward Russia.

"So, tell me, has Russia helped us or harmed us? Has Russia, at crucial moments, contributed or obstructed?" the Indian foreign minister asked rhetorically.

"So, if I do my calculations from my perspective and my experiences, I will get the answerand the answer in this case is that Russia is a country with which we have always had a positive relationship."

Ukraine's diplomatic effort

Ukraine expended considerable diplomatic effort to try and woo the Global South.

It has used practical argumentsinvoking Ukraine's crucial role in supplying much of the developing world with grain, which has been restricted by Russia's war.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has said that Russia is trying to "weaponize" food shortages as a form of blackmail against countries dependent on Ukraine and Russia for grain.

Foreign Minister Kuleba has visited Africa several times since the beginning of the full-scale war as part of a plan to shore up support and argue that Russia's military aggression is ultimately responsible for food shortages on the continent.

Ukraine has also employed moral and geopolitical arguments, aiming to persuade nations that supporting Ukraine is the right thing to do and that allowing Russia to unilaterally change borders with military force would set a dangerous precedent.

Ghana's President Nana Akufo-Addo backed these arguments in a speech at the peace summit, saying that outside of Europe, "Africa has been the greatest victim" of Russia's full-scale war.

Akufo-Addo added that Ghana opposes "great power hegemony and the bullying of small states by big powers. It is in this context that we view and continue to view Russia's invasion and acts of aggression."

President of Ghana Nana Akufo-Addo attends a joint press conference after the Summit on Peace in Ukraine in Burgenstock, Switzerland, on June 16, 2024. (Dursun Aydemir/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Ghana's statement remained an outlier among the Global South. Amid Israel's war against Hamas, which has seen tens of thousands of civilian casualties, and the perceived lack of Western attention to other problems impacting the developing world, there is a sense of hypocrisy from some countries.

The sentiment was directly referenced by South African National Security Advisor Sydney Mufamadi, who represented the country at the peace summit.

Mufamadi criticized Israel's participation in the talks while the war against Hamas is ongoing, saying that "the failure to uniformly and fairly implement international law in all conflict situations globally weakens the normative framework of international accountability and makes the world less safe for all."

There were other bright spots, such as signatures from Peru, Chile, the often Russia-aligned Serbia, and Turkey, which has maintained a careful balance between supporting Ukraine and remaining on good terms with Russia.

But they were exceptions, and the majority of signatories were already in Ukraine's camp before the summit was held. As long as Ukraine is beholden to the West for military support, it will be difficult for it to fundamentally change its dynamic with the Global South, Kugelman said.

Trade between Ukraine and India, compared to that of Russia and India, is illustrative of the inherent disadvantage Ukraine faces in its attempt to shift the needle.

In 2023, estimates of the bilateral trade between Russia and India surpassed $50 billion, while at pre-war levels, trade between Ukraine and India amounted to less than $3.5 billion.

Ultimately, as long as backing Ukraine is portrayed as a binary choice that could damage relations with Russia or China, there is little in concrete terms that Ukraine can offer the Global South.

Read also: Ukraines Peace Summit is over  what were its highs and lows?

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Air defence operating. Photo: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Russian forces attacked Ukraine with 21 Shahed-131/136 attack UAVs on the night of 18-19 June, and Ukrainian air defence managed to destroy 19 drones.

Source: Ukraines Air Force on Telegram

Quote from the Air Force: "As a result of combat efforts, 19 enemy Shahed attack UAVs were shot down in Kherson, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovohrad, Khmelnytskyi and Lviv oblasts."

Details: It is reported that the Russians launched drones from the directions of Primorsko-Akhtarsk (Russia) and Cape Chauda (temporarily occupied Crimea).

The air attack was repelled by fighter aircraft, anti-aircraft missile units and electronic warfare units of Ukraines Air Force, as well as mobile fire groups of the Ukrainian defence forces.

Background:

The Russian Shahed drones reached Ukraines western oblast on the night of 18-19 June.

Ukrainian air defence was responding in Lviv Oblast. Later, Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi reported that there was a strike in Malekhiv and a security guard, 70, was injured. At the same time, Kozytskyi reported that a man, 47, was wounded.

Subsequently, air defence was responding near Lviv for the second time in a night because of a Russian drone, and a second explosion occurred in Malekhiv.

Kozytskyi reported that five out of five drones were downed in Lviv Oblast.

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Recent political turbulence and economic uncertainty have left their mark on Germany's DAX index, which experienced a notable decline amid broader European market volatility. In such an environment, identifying undervalued stocks that may offer potential for appreciation becomes particularly pertinent for investors looking to navigate these choppy waters.

Top 10 Undervalued Stocks Based On Cash Flows In Germany

Name Current Price Fair Value (Est) Discount (Est) Kontron (XTRA:SANT) 20.24 31.51 35.8% SAP (XTRA:SAP) 176.00 281.69 37.5% MTU Aero Engines (XTRA:MTX) 225.00 397.54 43.4% Stratec (XTRA:SBS) 46.60 80.02 41.8% tonies (DB:TNIE) 5.72 13.98 59.1% CHAPTERS Group (XTRA:CHG) 23.60 44.40 46.8% SBF (DB:CY1K) 2.80 5.22 46.3% Redcare Pharmacy (XTRA:RDC) 115.10 197.69 41.8% Your Family Entertainment (DB:RTV) 2.40 4.08 41.2% Dr. Honle (XTRA:HNL) 20.10 33.31 39.7%

Click here to see the full list of 31 stocks from our Undervalued German Stocks Based On Cash Flows screener.

Let's uncover some gems from our specialized screener

Overview: Aumann AG, with a market cap of 241.80 million, specializes in manufacturing and selling machines and production lines for components of both electric and classic drive systems across Europe, the Americas, China, and other global markets.

Operations: The company generates 60.25 million from its classic drive systems and 238.18 million from e-mobility segments.

Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 27.3%

Aumann AG demonstrates potential as an undervalued stock based on its cash flows, with significant expected earnings growth of 27.6% per year outpacing the German market's 18.6%. Despite a lower forecasted return on equity at 11.7%, recent financial performance strengthens its case: Q1 sales increased to 65.17 million from 56.2 million year-over-year, and net income improved significantly to 3.94 million from 1.36 million. The company also actively returns value to shareholders through buybacks, completing a repurchase of shares for 14.9 million recently.

XTRA:AAG Discounted Cash Flow as at Jun 2024

Overview: SAP SE operates globally, offering a wide range of applications, technology, and services through its subsidiaries, with a market capitalization of approximately 204.04 billion.

Operations: The company generates 31.81 billion from its Applications, Technology & Services segment.

Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 37.5%

SAP, priced at 176, is considered highly undervalued with a fair value of 281.69, trading 37.5% below this estimate. Despite slower forecasted revenue growth at 9.3% annually compared to the desired 20%, SAP's earnings are expected to surge by 33.4% yearly, outpacing the German market's growth rate of 18.6%. Recent strategic alliances aim to enhance efficiencies in manufacturing through advanced technologies and integration with business platforms like SAP S/4HANA, potentially bolstering its market position and financial performance despite some one-off items impacting results.

Story continues

XTRA:SAP Discounted Cash Flow as at Jun 2024

Overview: Verbio SE, operating primarily in Germany and across Europe, is a producer and supplier of fuels and finished products with a market capitalization of approximately 1.29 billion.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily through two segments: biodiesel, which contributed approximately 1.06 billion, and bioethanol (including biomethane), with revenues of about 0.70 billion.

Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 30.5%

Verbio SE, with a forecasted revenue growth of 6.7% per year, is set to outpace the German market average of 5.1%. However, its earnings are expected to increase significantly by 68.3% annually, far exceeding the German market's 18.6%. Despite these positives, Verbio faces challenges as recent figures show a decline in sales and net income with a substantial drop from 124.24 million to 11.44 million in nine months and deteriorating profit margins year-over-year from 11.4% to just 1.1%.

XTRA:VBK Discounted Cash Flow as at Jun 2024

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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 XTRA:AAG XTRA:SAP and XTRA:VBK.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
The damaged armoured vehicle belonging to Ukraine's defence forces with a severed head of a Ukrainian defender on top of it. Photo: Kostin on Facebook

Ukraine's Prosecutor General Andrii Kostin has reported that the Ukrainian soldier beheaded by the Russians in Donetsk Oblast has been identified, as have the Russian commanders responsible for this war crime.

Source: Kostin on Facebook

Quote: "As regards the investigation into the brutal murder of a Ukrainian defender in Donetsk Oblast, which was reported yesterday, the deceased has been identified. We cannot disclose his name at present, as procedures are underway to confirm his identity."

Details: The prosecutor general noted that Russian commanders likely responsible for the beheading of the Ukrainian defender have also been identified. "A set of measures is being taken to verify this information," the prosecutor general said.

Kostin added that this incident serves as another proof of Russia's state policy of disregarding international law and universal morality.

Background:

Earlier, the Ukrainian Prosecutor General's Office (PGO) reported that the Russians had beheaded a serviceman from the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Donetsk Oblast, and Ukrainian prosecutors had launched an investigation.

The PGO found that on 17 June 2024, the Ukrainian military received information that soldiers from a Russian unit in the Volnovakha district of Donetsk Oblast had ordered their subordinates not to take Ukrainian soldiers prisoner but to behead them instead. While carrying out aerial reconnaissance at a combat position in Donetsk Oblast, Ukrainian forces spotted a damaged armoured vehicle belonging to the Ukrainian defence forces. The severed head of a Ukrainian defender was lying on top of it.

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Soldiers celebrate the news of the Argentine surrender on June 14 1982 - Getty Images

The United Nations decolonisation committee has been accused of colonialism by the Falkland Islands after it suggested the UK and Argentina should begin fresh talks over their ownership.

Falklands residents appeared in New York on Tuesday to argue that they have the right to remain British, and called for an end to the demand that they return to Argentine hands.

Two island representatives said the UN had helped a power with colonial ambitions by supporting negotiations over their future, despite a referendum that showed almost all residents want to be connected to the UK.

The UK has repeatedly denied requests by Argentina to start talks on the islands, describing the issue as not up for discussion.

But the UN, which has not changed its position on the issue since 1965, passed another resolution last year calling for the resumption of negotiations to find a peaceful solution to the sovereignty dispute.

The issue is managed by the special committee on decolonisation which hears claims by various states known as non-self-governing territories.

Teslyn Barkman, a member of the islands legislative assembly, appeared at the committee on Tuesday to demand the UN drops its support for talks.

Requesting [that] the UK and Argentina talk bilaterally about our future is colonial, she said.

Setting a table for our former colonial power and a power with colonial ambitions over us was suggested in 1965. In the modern setting, this request is neo-colonialism.

Support self-determination

Pointing to the result of the referendum, Ms Barkman said the only neutral position for the UN to take would be to support self-determination.

We are too small and too threatened to be independent, and we dont wish to be, she said.

Gavin Short, another representative, said that the islands basic right to choose its own future was coming under attack.

This is not about Argentina nor Britain  this is about us, he said. Only we can say what happens in and to our country.

If anyone thinks for one moment that they can take these basic human rights away from us, and put us back in a real colonial situation, then they will have to get past me first.

Javier Milei, Argentinas president, issued a fresh call for talks with the UK shortly after his election in December.

In April, he said he wanted to establish a roadmap for the islands to return to Argentine hands.

The dispute has become a totemic issue for Argentine politicians, who are often asked during elections whether they believe the islands should be retaken.

Mr Milei said during his own campaign that he would make every effort to recover the islands through diplomatic channels.

Valued part of the British family

Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, described the Falklands on a visit in February as a valued part of the British family.

We are clear that as long as they want to remain part of the family, the issue of sovereignty will not be up for discussion, he said.

The Ministry of Defence retains a presence on the islands, including four RAF Typhoons, a Royal Navy patrol vessel and three Sky Sabre surface-to-air missile batteries.

Argentinas claim is supported by some of its allies, including several South American countries and China, while Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, has described the Falklands War as an offensive against Argentina.

Some countries, including Venezuela, have used their membership of the UNs decolonisation committee to support Argentinas claim, while others have supported the UK.

The UN takes no position on the sovereignty issue but supports talks, while the US is neutral. A US State Department spokesman said the Biden administration supports cooperation between the UK and Argentina on practical matters.

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UN says Israels use of heavy bombs in Gaza is potential war crime; Israel rejects allegations

The United Nations human rights office said Wednesday Israel may have committed war crimes through the use of heavy bombs on at least six occasions, a charge that Israeli officials quickly denied.

The report from the United Nations Human Rights Office of the High Commissioner details six incidents of Israel deploying munitions, including heavy 2,000-pound bombs, along with 1,000-pound bombs and 250-pound bombs in densely populated areas of Gaza.

The strikes occurred from Oct. 9 to Dec. 2, 2023, on residential buildings, a school, a refugee camp and a market, killing 218 people in total, according to the report.

The U.N. human rights office said the use of those bombs in densely populated areas of Gaza, along with the lack of warning for civilians in five of the incidents, could amount to a war crime as an indiscriminate attack.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said the international humanitarian law requirement to minimize civilians casualties has been consistently violated in Israels bombing campaign and that Israeli troops have failed to ensure that they effectively distinguish between civilians and fighters.

I call on Israel to make public detailed findings on these incidents, he said in a statement. It should also ensure thorough and independent investigations into these and all other similar incidents with a view to identifying those responsible for violations, holding them to account and to ensuring all victims rights to truth, justice and reparations.

Israels permanent mission to the United Nations denied the accusations and said the report suffers from hindsight and methodological biases which cast a shadow on the credibility of its legal assessment.

There is therefore no doubt that the only objective of this Thematic Report is to lambast and single-out Israel, while further shielding Hamas terrorists in Gaza, officials wrote in a statement. Israel is fighting Hamas and the other terrorist organizations in Gaza, not the civilian population.

Israel is facing international pressure to end the eight-month war in Gaza, where more than 37,000 people have been killed, according to Gaza health authorities, which do not distinguish between combatants and civilians.

The International Criminal Court is seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, along with top Hamas officials who the court said were responsible for planning the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that killed some 1,200 people. Hamas also kidnapped around 250 people from Israel, with around 120 still being held in Gaza.

Israels use of heavy bombs in Gaza has been a major source of friction between the U.S. and Israeli officials. President Biden is holding back heavy bombs over concerns about their use in densely populated areas.

Two of the strikes on densely populated areas identified in the U.N. report were in northern Gaza at the Jabalya market and at the Jabalya refugee camp in October. The refugee camp strike alone killed a verified 52 people and damaged or destroyed 20 buildings.

Another three strikes hit a residential area, a neighborhood and a school in Gaza City, all similarly densely populated, according to the U.N., while Israel also allegedly struck a residential block in middle Gaza.

The U.N. said Israel failed to distinguish between military and civilian targets, taking an expansive approach to targeting that may violate humanitarian law on distinction and proportionality.

Under humanitarian law, the military is expected to not only minimize civilian harm through distinguishing between lawful targets but also by taking precaution in certain strikes to ensure a disproportionate number of civilians are not harmed to hit a military target.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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UN says Israel's use of precision bombs could be a war crime

An injured Palestinian child arrives at Al-Aqsa Hospital to receive treatment following an Israeli attack. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Israel has not been paying sufficient attention to the protection of civilians when using precision-guided bombs during the Gaza war, the UN Human Rights Office said on Wednesday.

"The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimise to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign," UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said in Geneva.

The office has investigated six Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip between October 9 and December 2.

It assumes that bombs of the types GBU-31, GBU-32 and GBU-39 were used, which can penetrate concrete and destroy several floors of a building. They were used to attack residential buildings, a school, a refugee camp and a market, the agency said. At least 218 people had been killed.

In an attack presumably with nine GBU-31 bombs on December 2, the destruction affected an area with a diameter of 130 metres, the UN agency said, noting that it had destroyed 15 residential buildings and damaged 14 others.

The section of international humanitarian law governing combat situations states that civilian facilities must be spared as much as possible during attacks. If the presence of combatants is suspected, attacking forces must weigh up whether the damage caused does not outweigh the desired gains.

The presence of one or more terrorists or those involved in the massacres in Israel on October 7 in a building does not make an entire neighbourhood a legitimate target for an attack, the report states.

"Israel's choices of methods and means of conducting hostilities in Gaza since 7 October, including through the extensive use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in densely populated areas, have failed to ensure that they effectively distinguish between civilians and fighters," the report states. This could also constitute crimes against humanity, it noted.

The report also criticizes armed Palestinian groups for firing projectiles at Israel that could hit civilians. The UN Office for Human Rights points out that military equipment or personnel should not be stationed in densely populated areas.

Israel regularly criticizes the UN Human Rights Office and Turk for not condemning Hamas crimes in the same way it condemns Israel.

An injured Palestinian child arrives at Al-Aqsa Hospital to receive treatment following an Israeli attack. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Palestinians walk among the rubble of houses destroyed in the Israeli bombardment of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, on the second day of Eid al-Adha. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
UN says Israel's use of precision bombs could be a war crime

An injured Palestinian child arrives at Al-Aqsa Hospital to receive treatment following an Israeli attack. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Israel has not been paying sufficient attention to the protection of civilians when using precision-guided bombs during the Gaza war, the UN Human Rights Office said on Wednesday.

"The requirement to select means and methods of warfare that avoid or at the very least minimise to every extent civilian harm appears to have been consistently violated in Israel's bombing campaign," UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said in Geneva.

The office has investigated six Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip between October 9 and December 2.

It assumes that bombs of the types GBU-31, GBU-32 and GBU-39 were used, which can penetrate concrete and destroy several floors of a building. They were used to attack residential buildings, a school, a refugee camp and a market, the agency said. At least 218 people had been killed.

In an attack presumably with nine GBU-31 bombs on December 2, the destruction affected an area with a diameter of 130 metres, the UN agency said, noting that it had destroyed 15 residential buildings and damaged 14 others.

The section of international humanitarian law governing combat situations states that civilian facilities must be spared as much as possible during attacks. If the presence of combatants is suspected, attacking forces must weigh up whether the damage caused does not outweigh the desired gains.

The presence of one or more terrorists or those involved in the massacres in Israel on October 7 in a building does not make an entire neighbourhood a legitimate target for an attack, the report states.

An injured Palestinian boy arrives at Al-Aqsa Hospital to receive treatment following an Israeli attack. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Friends and family mourn during the funeral of Israeli soldier Wassem Mahmoud, who was killed when an armoured personnel carrier exploded near the southern Gaza city of Rafah. Eight Israeli soldiers have been killed in fighting in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, the armed forces said on Saturday. Ilia Yefimovich/dpa
Under the Dome: House and Senate Republicans offer different assessments of where budget talks stand

Good morning!  Budget talks between the House and Senate GOP continue, even as House Republicans released a proposal to highlight their spending priorities, Rep. Donny Lambeth told reporters Tuesday morning.

Those priorities include child care and raises for state workers and teachers, the Winston-Salem Republican said.

Lambeth said that House and Senate Republicans involved in budget talks continue to send offers back and forth, and said the House made one as recently as Monday night.

He said that one of the key sticking points that remains is how much funding should be allocated in this years budget adjustment bill for child care. Other points still being negotiated are retiree bonuses, raises for teachers and state employees, and Medicaid provider rates.

Still, he said, Republicans in both chambers have made considerable progress so far, which could be reason to be optimistic about an agreement ultimately being reached.

Weve done so much work, we probably have 95% that weve already worked through with the conference committee, Lambeth said, after the House Appropriations Committee met to go over the House GOPs budget proposal. So, its a matter now of taking the few items that are still  I call them stumbling blocks, and getting those resolved, as best we can, and get back on track, and I think thats possible we could do that next week.

Senate leader Phil Berger, responding to the House GOPs spending proposal Tuesday evening, disagreed with Lambeths assessment that Republicans in the two chambers arent too far off on an agreement.

The Senate has tried to work something out with the House; we have agreed to dip into the reserves, but not nearly to the tune of the House, Berger told reporters. And weve only done that to try to get a deal, and they continue to want to spend way too much money.

Berger also said that unless something changes drastically, the Senate plans to go home at the end of this month. That would mean that the two-year budget that Republicans passed last year would remain in effect as enacted.

 Avi Bajpai and Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

ADVOCATES PUSH FOR BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH LEGISLATION

Maternal health advocates, including birth and postpartum doulas who have served hundreds of families in the Triangle, called on lawmakers to pass legislation to address Black maternal mortality during an advocacy day at the General Assembly.

LaToshia Rouse, a certified birth and postpartum doula, said she knows the difference doulas can make in guiding women through pregnancy, including helping them manage their mental health and make informed decisions.

Rouse and other advocates urged lawmakers to take up legislation focused on Black maternal health that was filed last month by Durham Sen. Natalie Murdock and other Senate Democrats.

Murdock has filed several related bills in recent years, including one that would have allowed doula services to be covered by Medicaid.

The latest bill Murdock has filed, MOMnibus 2.5, would require the Department of Health and Human Services to help develop an evidence-based implicit bias training program for maternal care providers. It also outlines a list of rights for patients receiving care before and after birth at facilities such as hospitals and clinics.

The bill would also require DHHS to establish a grant program to launch and expand education programs in rural and underserved parts of the state to teach pregnant women and their families about healthy pregnancies, preparation for labor and birth, breastfeeding and caring for newborns.

In total, the bill calls for $5 million to be allocated for the implicit bias training program, education grant program, and other efforts  a sum Murdock said lawmakers should be able to set aside as GOP budget writers continue to negotiate adjustments to the states $30 billion, two-year budget.

We know our colleagues have bragged about a billion-dollar surplus, so I think they can find $5 million, Murdock said. Black moms and Black babies deserve better. This $5 million investment is simply a down payment. They deserve and need much more.

 Avi Bajpai

HOUSE BUDGET TARGETS PROSECUTORS WHO DISMISS CHARGES AGAINST PROTESTERS

A provision included in the budget proposal put forth by House Republicans on Monday would impose a new requirement on prosecutors, who would have to explain their reasoning if they dismiss charges against protesters or allow them to plead guilty to lesser charges.

The language would require prosecutors to provide the law enforcement agency that made the arrest with a detailed explanation for their reasoning, if they dismiss a broad range of charges grouped together as civil disorder cases, or allow the person to plead guilty to a lesser offense.

The misdemeanors and felonies included under civil disorder range from rioting to a misdemeanor for people who make any rude or riotous noise, or be guilty of any disorderly conduct, in or near any public building or facility.

Lorrin Freeman, the Wake County district attorney, told The News & Observer that the proposed requirement could have a chilling effect on prosecutors who seek alternatives to prosecution, such as dismissals for low-level offenses in exchange for community service.

House Speaker Tim Moore, meanwhile, said GOP lawmakers had heard frustration from law enforcement when cases involving violence at public disturbances seemed to be dismissed willy-nilly.

Get the full story from Kyle Ingram here.

BUDGET WOULD AUTHORIZE UP TO $180 MILLION FOR POE HALL RENOVATIONS

North Carolina State University could receive a substantial amount in state funds for renovations to Poe Hall, the academic building that remains closed due to the presence of toxic chemicals, under the House GOPs budget proposal.

The proposal would allocate $5 million in one-time funds for the design, engineering and implementation of building renovations at Poe Hall during the upcoming 2024-25 fiscal year.

But it goes further to authorize a total of $180 million for the project.

University officials closed Poe Hall in November after preliminary tests showed the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs  toxic, synthetic chemicals that were banned from being produced in the U.S. in 1979.

Get the full story from Korie Dean here.

REALTORS HOPEFUL BILL WILL HELP HOMEOWNERS DEALING WITH SQUATTERS

A bipartisan bill moving forward in the House will help homeowners protect their property from squatters, real estate agents say.

House Bill 966, which has a lengthy list of sponsors from both parties, would establish an expedited proceeding to remove unauthorized people who unlawfully enter another persons home, and ignore demands to leave.

GOP Rep. Steve Tyson, a Realtor and general contractor from New Bern and a bill sponsor, told lawmakers during a recent committee meeting that the bill is meant to help remove trespassers who exploit loopholes in the law to take over other peoples houses.

Leigh Brown and Amy Hedgecock, real estate agents who have both served as president of North Carolina Realtors, said the legislation is needed to boost protections for homeowners.

Get the full story from Vivienne Serret here.

Thats all for today. Check your inbox tomorrow for more #ncpol news.

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Undocumented spouses will be allowed to apply for citizenship. Here's what they think

New Jersey immigrant advocates are lauding President Joe Biden's announcement that he will use executive action to allow undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency with an eventual path to citizenship, and to quicken the work-visa process for DACA recipients.

Biden made the official announcement on the action during a ceremony at the White House Tuesday afternoon marking the 12th anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood arrivals program. The program was created in 2012 when Biden was vice president under then-President Barack Obama to afford protection against deportation and access to work permits to undocumented immigrants brought to the country as children, a group often referred to as Dreamers.

The Biden Administration action, according to the White House website, would impact as of Monday 500,000 noncitizens who have resided in the United States for 10 or more years and are legally married to a U.S. citizen, along with 50,000 noncitizen children. Those spouses without legal status who are found eligible to apply for permanent residency, based on assessment by the Department of Homeland Security that includes a criminal background check, will be allowed three years to apply for a green card.

"The reason is simple: It's embracing the American principle that we should keep families together," Biden said.

Biden also announced that the State Department and Department of Homeland Security will work in tandem to speed up the process for DACA recipients who have earned a degree at an accredited U.S. college, and received a job offer in a field related to their field of study to receive work visas.

Muhil Ravichandran, 24 came to the US at the age of nine and is affected by DACA legislation. She has aged out" as per federal immigration law. The Rutgers pharmaceutical student will graduate in May and is concerned about deportation.

Rey Amaya, a DACA recipient who is a member of the immigrant group Make the Road New Jersey, which has been fighting for years to protect undocumented immigrants, hailed the Biden Administration action in a statement issued through Make the Road NJ. Amaya was brought to the United States by his parents from El Salvador in 2005 when he was 4 years old, and grew up in Elizabeth.

"President Bidens announcement today means I can finally feel safe, free and protected. I have lived in the United States since I was a small child, studied here, graduated college and now work here as an engineer. Todays announcement means I can finally breathe free," Amaya said. "This momentous victory is the result of organizing efforts led by undocumented immigrants for years. On behalf of the members of Make the Road New Jersey I applaud President Biden and urge additional action so that all immigrants can have the freedom to stay."

The Department of Homeland Security's count of DACA recipients has 528,000 living in the U.S. including 12,810 in New Jersey, though immigrant advocates estimate there may be as many as 16,500. The U.S. Census American Community Survey lists 11,000 eligible undocumented U.S. citizens married to a U.S. citizen.

Related: Immigrants take part in workforce at higher rate than native-born in NJ, report states

Action long overdue

Erik Cruz Morales, the policy and advocacy manager for the New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, said that the group welcomes the Biden Administration actions for giving undocumented spouses a pathway to citizenship, which will make this situation for them becoming citizens less difficult.

"The executive order signed by President Biden is a step forward. It has the potential to establish a pathway to citizenship for many individuals in mixed-status families and for Dreamers who arrived in this country at a young age and have spent their entire lives here," Cruz Morales said.

Biden immigration rule protects undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens from deportation

However, Cruz Morales, a Cedar Grove resident, did express skepticism about the announcement, citing both his status as DACA recipient, having come to the U.S. from Mexico at 8 years old, and as an undocumented spouse who is already near the end of a different process called consular processing to receive legal citizenship.

This process involves applying for a green card through a U.S. embassy or consulate in a foreign country to do an interview and have an immigration official decide eligibility. For Morales, it means leaving the U.S. and going back to Mexico.

""However, this is a step the President could and should have taken much earlier in his administration. Speaking from my experience as an immigrant and an advocate, I can't help but feel that this action comes only as an anticipation of the approaching presidential elections, " said Cruz Morales, who grew up in Teaneck. "We hope that the implementation of this program is efficient and swift, enabling people to benefit from this executive order as soon as possible, but we also urge the Biden administration and Congress to work on immigration policy that stands separate from the polarization of election cycles."

Biden's announcement comes weeks after he announced an executive order that gave U.S. Customs and Border Protection the authority to deport immigrants seeking asylum without processing their claims when a threshold of 2,500 people are apprehended crossing ports of entry. The decision was derided by immigrant advocates.

North Arlington resident Liseth Bermudes was also appreciative of Biden's actions as the undocumented spouse of a U.S. citizen; it will help her obtain citizenship during a difficult time for her family. Her father, Oscar, a truck driver living in Kearny for 20 years after coming from El Salvador, is facing deportation this week after his truck was stopped at a Customs and Border Protection checkpoint in upstate New York in June 2023.

"Ive been married to my U.S. citizen husband for almost five years and havent been able to adjust my immigration status," said Bermudes. While I feel some sense of relief that I will be eligible for this program, it doesnt protect my father who has a check-in with ICE this Thursday. We cant forget that detentions and deportations are still happening."

Ricardo Kaulessar covers race, immigration, and culture for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: kaulessar@northjersey.com

Twitter: @ricardokaul

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Biden executive action on undocumented immigrants: How it affects NJ
A Union Pacific train struck and killed a person on Tuesday evening in Topeka, according to the railroad.

The train fatally hit the individual around North Kansas Ave and Northeast Norris Street in Topeka around 5:05 p.m., a Union Pacific spokesperson told the Star on Tuesday.

Topeka police officers responded around 5:07, according to Rosie Nichols, a Topeka Police Department spokesperson.

No one on the train crew was injured, the Union Pacific spokesperson said. The train line is working with local authorities to find out what happened leading up to the crash.

Union Pacific is the largest railroad in North America. Upwards of 60 trains a day run on Union Pacific tracks through Topeka, according to a 2023 report from the railroad.

This is a developing story. Check back for further details.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  The New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association says part of an officers finger was bitten off in an alleged assault at Collins Correctional Facility last week.

NYSCOPBA says three incidents of assault occurred on June 12. In the instance where they said a correction officers finger was bitten off, a total of seven officers were allegedly injured, according to the union.

Officers were finishing a search of a cell at the medium-security facility when they said they ordered the 28-year-old inmate back in. According to NYSCOPA, he refused.

Lewiston man claims Niagara Falls industrial plant produced radioactive waste that resulted in wifes death

They said he pulled away when first approached by staff and as a result, three officers grabbed him in a body hold and forced him to the floor.

The union said that while the inmate was on the ground, he was extremely combative. According to them, he punched one officer in the face, kicked one in the groin, and bit another at the tip of his left ring finger, severing his finger.

As more staff arrived, NYSCOPBA said officers struggled to get the inmate under control. They said an officer noticed a metal object, later determined to be a set of nail clippers, in his hand but forced it out.

The officer whose finger was bitten off and the one who was kicked in the groin were taken to outside medical facilities, but the other five injured officers remained on duty, the NYSCOPBA said.

According to the union, the inmate had been convicted of assault in Queens County last year and is serving a three-year prison sentence.

Latest Local News

Evan Anstey is an Associated Press Award, JANY Award and Emmy-nominated digital producer who has been part of the News 4 team since 2015. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.

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By Renee Hickman

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Bayer's crop science division is increasingly turning to artificial intelligence in its battle against crop killing weeds, the company told Reuters.

Weeds are growing resistant to the herbicides already on the market, and agribusiness companies like Bayer are in a desperate search for new modes of action to help farmers kill them.

Bayer's Icafolin product will be its first new mode of action herbicide in some 30 years when it launches in Brazil in 2028.

Frank Terhorst, executive vice president of strategy and sustainability at Bayer's Crop Science Division, told Reuters on Monday that AI could help speed up finding that next new mode of action.

"You want to find the one where you have maximum performance on what you want to kill  weeds, and basically no impact on everything else. And that balance is extremely difficult," Terhorst told Reuters after an event in Chicago.

AI, he said, helps the company match the protein structure of a weed with a molecule that targets that structure, and enables it to use huge amounts of data.

It is a faster process, he said, and there are fewer dropouts.

Bob Reiter, head of research and development, crop science, at Bayer, said in a statement that with AI tools, the timeline for the discovery of the next new mode of action could be much shorter.

"If we take the example of early research only, we today have at least three times the number of new modes of action compared to ten years ago," he said.

(Reporting by Renee Hickman; Editing by Josie Kao)
A couple poses for a photo at the Juneteenth celebration at the John S. Knight Center on Wednesday.

Across Akron, residents gathered Wednesday to celebrate Juneteenth, the official celebration of the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans were freed in Texas.

The festivities commenced after nearly a week of controversy surrounding Juneteenth celebrations in the city. On Friday, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik announced all events on city-owned land over the weekend, including Juneteenth events, were canceled following a letter issued by some City Council members expressing security concerns in the wake of the June 2 mass shooting.

On the east side, former Ward 5 Councilwoman Tara Mosley Weems reorganized the canceled festival she had coordinated. It was originally scheduled to occur in Joy Park Saturday, near where the June 2 shooting occurred during a birthday party on Kelly and 8th avenues.

More: Akron police identify suspect vehicle believed to be involved in June 2 mass shooting

"I thought it was important for it to go forward here in the neighborhood," Mosley Weems said. "I think it's something that I think is very important to us in the Black community, and I wanted them to have an opportunity to stay in the neighborhood and celebrate."

At the John S. Knight Center downtown, the city worked with the Akron Urban League to put on a Juneteenth celebration as well.

The Urban League originally had its own plans for Wednesday, but it partnered with the city after Malik canceled the weekend events.

Both locations buzzed with a celebratory atmosphere. Food, drink, music and children's activities were on-hand for attendees.

"It's really important that people are able to get together and celebrate," Malik said. "This is first and foremost a celebration. What I love most about this community is community  our ability to come together  so it was really important that we do that, that safety and concerns about safety do not overwhelm our ability to get together."

More: Akron businesses, vendors 'at a loss' over cancellation of weekend's city-hosted events

'A day I never would have imagined'

Former Ward 5 council member Tara Mosley Weems talks about the Juneteeth celebration at the B&V Community Resource House Wednesday.

Just after noon at the B&V Family Community Resource House on 7th Avenue, attendees began arriving to the celebration organized by Mosley Weems. An inflatable bounce house stood on the front lawn. Music drifted out to the sidewalk from the back, and the smell of a freshly lit grill filled the air.

Former Ohio State Rep. Barbara Sykes and State Senator Vernon Sykes were in attendance. Akron Police Department Captain Michael Miller and Sergeant Michael Murphy made an appearance as well.

Miller and Murphy both said they were looking forward to interacting with the citizens of Ward 5.

Mosley Weems said people were excited when they heard the event was still going forward. It's important for events like hers to happen in familiar neighborhoods because it's instrumental in building community, she said.

More: 'No credible threat:' Akron cancels weekend events after council members raise concerns

She said she expected about 100 people to attend.

Richardson Vincent holds a slushy treat as his daughter Hazel Vincent, 2 gets a spoonful at the Juneteenth celebration at the John S. Knight Center Wednesday.

Among the guests in attendance was Barb Beaty. She called Juneteenth "a day of achievement."

She said she was looking forward to spending time with family and friends.

"It's a day that I would never have imagined as a young girl. Things were much different back then," Beaty said.

Beaty was born in 1968 during the American Civil Rights Movement.

"There's a lot of contrast between then and now," she said. "Some of what was then is still the same now, so we have a little ways to go. This is a great day. It's a great day to be alive."

Summit County Prosecutor Elliot Kolkovich said he was out to support Mosley Weems and all she does for Ward 5.

"She's been a champion for Akron as long as I've known her, and such an advocate for the city," he said.

More: 'We can't operate in fear': Juneteenth festival at Joy Park pushes ahead despite shooting

'A representation of joy'

Thressa Brown, 73, and her sister, Mattie Griffin Mims, 78, talk with Alice Duey and Akron Mayor Shammas Malik at the Juneteenth celebration at the John S. Knight Center Wednesday.

Outside the Knight Center, the scene was bustling with activity, though the crowd was split between the outdoor space on East Mill Street and the Knight Center's interior.

The Akron police and fire departments were providing security for the JSK Center event. All attendees were subject to safety screenings upon entering.

Malik praised the efforts of Akron's safety forces in planning the event.

Rebecca Parms, however, said she wasn't pleased with the police presence.

"It makes me feel like the mayor is trying to tell the Black community that all of us are lawless," she said, "that we need to be watched."

Parms was also disappointed that more of Akron's white residents weren't at the festival.

"In light of the fact that the mayor canceled the events, I think the Caucasians of our community should have come out in full force to send a message that we are one Akron," said Parms.

Angela Higgins of Embracing Ur Journey performs at the Juneteenth celebration at the John S. Knight Center on Wednesday.

Ward 8 resident Gwen Petway said that to her, Juneteenth means education. Without knowledge, she said, there's no way to move forward.

Attendees line up at food vendor trucks at the Juneteenth celebration at the John S. Knight Center Wednesday.

Esther Thomas, the city's DEI director  and the woman who Malik said is most responsible for the success of the downtown celebration  said the Juneteenth celebration is "essential and vital," and a "true American holiday."

"It's important to celebrate that and recognize and continue to recognize that painful part of American history," she said. "One of the things I'm happy about is that despite all the circumstances, this is a representation of joy, and there's one thing that can't be taken, and that is joy, and we're celebrating that in the midst of everything."

More: Akron City Council members say mayor mishandled cancellations; Malik seeks to reschedule

Brandon Waithe, the Akron Urban League's director of education and learning, said it feels good to see the community come out for the festival.

"I'm going to be honest," he said, "going through school, my education did not ever tell me about Black history to the level it [should have]. And just recently with Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday, me learning more about it after the George Floyd situation, I felt like I was unlocking a new part of Black history that had kind of been kept from me for awhile. It really feels like I'm reconnecting with Black history. I feel seen, like we're part of this city, too."

Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com or 330-541-9413

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron residents celebrate Juneteenth despite event cancellations
Last week, after my children were released from school for the year, my family and I hit the road for the Oregon Coast for a few days away from the Interstate 5 corridor. We played on the beach, visited local shops and simply enjoyed a change of scenery. As an outdoorsman, one of my favorite coastal activities  aside from fishing  is to observe wildlife of all kinds, from the tide pools to the passing Gray whales just offshore.

It was an interesting juxtaposition, sitting there with my binoculars hoping to catch a glimpse of these charismatic megafauna, given a recent announcement from the federal agency tasked with overseeing whale populations and management with a local Indigenous tribe.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Makah Tribe recently reached an agreement that will allow the tribe to once again harvest Eastern Pacific Gray whales in accordance with treaty-protected rights dating back to 1855.

Perhaps one of the whales the Makah will soon harvest was swimming offshore in front of me, unwittingly on a collison course with tribal hunters hoping to realize their treaty rights and cultural heritage.

As you might imagine, some folks are upset about this. In response to the NOAAs Instagram post announcing news of the agreement, supposed champions of wildlife and the environment called the Makahs practices ridiculous, outrageous and an ancient tradition. One person even went so far as to claim that they care more for the whales than the Indigenous people who relied on the magestic animals for their well-being. One can only assume that such champions are oblivious to the tribes generational reverence for the whales, which is so significant that they honor them within their culture.

The Makah Tribe does not simply have an existential connection to the well-being of whales. Their connection is not political, academic or philosophical. Rather, it is cultural and spiritual. It transcends European philosophy; it is something wholly its own and critical to the culture of the Makah people.

When the United States established treaties with local Native American tribes, the tribes requested the right to hunt, fish and gather in their usual and accustomed places. For the Makah, this included the rights to harvest whales.

Because of the impacts of European colonizers who hunted whales commercially, the Makah were unable to harvest whales for decades. However, in 1999, the tribe harvested its first whale in more than 70 years over the objections of extremist groups who believed that their colonialist view of wildlife and the environment superseded indigenous practices and their protected treaty rights. Those same extremists were able to block the tribe from exercising their rights and preserving their culture for the past two decades, weaponizing the courts against them.

Blaming Indigenous practices for the decline of whales or any other wildlife  like Pacific salmon  amounts to blaming the victim rather than accepting responsibility for the impacts created by the white majority.

The next time you feel the urge to clutch your pearls when you see an Indigenous person or tribe exercising their treaty rights and cultural heritage, stop and use the opportunity to learn and to better understand our states colonialist history  including what was agreed to in the treaties signed by Native tribes, and the critical importance of Indigenous activities and practices to their cultures.

And if you are fortunate enough to see a passing Gray on the coast?

Wish them well, with an appreciation for the many relationships humans can have with the environment and its wildlife.

Jordan Rash is freelance writer, podcaster, outdoorsman and conservation advocate in Tacoma. Hes spent a career on and around the forests, mountains, wetlands and rivers of the Pacific Northwest fighting wildfires, developing public policy and leading conservation efforts.
URBANA, Ill. (WCIA)  At Mondays city council meeting, the Urbana community voiced mixed opinions on a proposed budget increase for the city police department.

Last week, Police Chief Larry Boone said the expanded funds would help the department improve community relations, upgrade technology and support increased staffing including a new deputy chief, training sergeant and community engagement officers.

The Urbana City Council was 50/50 on Boones wishes, mirroring the mixed feelings of the public. Opposing council members cited that the 2025 budget plan doesnt have room for his requests, though most seemed on board with funding the hiring of a new social worker.

READ MORE: Urbana Police Chief lobbies for increase in department budget

On Monday during public comment, the council heard arguments from community members  both from those in support of the increase and opposed to it.

Those against the budget expansion shared a common desire to delay the decision until a BerryDunn public safety report has concluded and other approaches are considered. Many urged the council to instead direct the funds to alternative responses to crime, such as funding local organizations focused on reducing recidivism and providing mental health services.

Theres nothing in place to help mental health people, said Tameka Mason, a member of First Followers in Urbana, while holding photos of her late nephew Bennet Eiermann. When the police get there, its all aggression. Why? Because if you cant handle it, get somebody that can. Pay into the city, pay into resources that are gonna help these situations  especially suicide.

Supporters of the budget increase said that even with the presence of social workers and proactive resources, police forces can also be necessary  particularly in responses to violent crime. One speaker shared her personal experience with domestic violence.

I am telling you right now that no social worker can compare with my ex-husband. He is in the Army. Police put him away. That is when I knew I wasnt alone, she said. Police officers show up for me.

Champaign-Urbana MTD phone lines down amidst system upgrade

Opposing voices also view Boones budget plan as unsustainable.

You need to not commit to a large, ongoing expense without considering exactly what youre into, what kind of tax increases are gonna be needed to support it, and whether that is the best way to spend multiple-millions of dollars, said Stuart Levy, a Champaign resident who works in Urbana.

Some said they do not see the need to swell taxpayer money or dip into city reserves to fight a declining community crime rate. Ward 1 Alderwoman Maryalice Wu later clarified that while one ward experienced a lowered violent crime rate in the last year, another remained steady and the rest increased. She singled out Ward 7  which experienced a significant rise in violent crime from 61 instances last year to 97 this year  as well as quite a big increase in rape reports in Ward 3.

Urbana Free Library turns 150 years old

Community members in favor of the budget increase argued that even if crime is on the decline, the city should seize the opportunity to keep up the momentum.

This community has an opportunity to repair broken relationships, trust, and more through implementing a community engagement team that is hands-on and can go into most of our vulnerable neighborhoods and triage a lot of the issues and concerns that our community residents express, said one unnamed public commenter over email.

The four-hour meeting left councilmembers with much to consider.

Some, like Ward 6 Alderwoman Grace Wilken and Ward 4 Alderwoman Jaya Kolisetty, voiced support for community collaboration in crafting an adequate safety system. Additionally, Kolisetty seemed to promote delaying the budget increase until after the BerryDunn report concludes.

Urbana Police, Crime Stoppers looking for suspects in May shots fired incident

If we want better relationships with officers in the community, then we have to work with the community to create that solution, Wilken said.

Meanwhile, Ward 3 Alderwoman Shirese Hursey expressed confusion on how public safety should be defined, since crime statistics  and therefore responses  can differ from ward to ward.

I think public safety means: when somebody calls the police, the police will show up, she said. And they will have an involved and engaged conversation, and commitment to trying to make somebody safe.

The discussion will pick back up on Tuesday night at 7 p.m., where a first vote on the budget is expected. The final vote is set for next week.

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The U.S. government is acknowledging that hydropower dams in the Pacific Northwest have harmed tribes.

A new report from the Interior Department showed that dams built in the early 1900s along the Columbia River blocked fish migration and flooded thousands of acres  including sacred sites and burial grounds.

Accordingly, the government acknowledged, tribes lost access to salmon that had historically provided them sustenance.

Acknowledging the devastating impact of federal hydropower dams on Tribal communities is essential to our efforts to heal and ensure that salmon are restored to their ancestral waters, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the U.S.s first Native American Cabinet secretary, said in a written statement.

The report states that their impacts included flooded villages that displaced people, impacted burial grounds, and impacted ecosystems of the river itself.

It specifically lays out harms to the Coeur dAlene Tribe, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, Nez Perce Tribe, Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of the Fort Hall Reservation, and the Spokane Tribe of Indians.

The Biden administration has taken steps to attempt to restore salmon in the Columbia River, including a 10-year plan that could involve dam removal.

The administration said in December that it had reached an agreement with state and trial leaders, which would contribute more than $1 billion to restoration.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Supporters of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) gather and push an ball reading ''Reject China's Interference In Politics'' outside of the legislative building in Taipei, Taiwan, Tuesday, May 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration on Tuesday approved a new $360 million weapons sale to Taiwan, sending the island hundreds of armed drones, missile equipment and related support material, the State Department said in a statement that is sure to draw condemnation from China.

The announcement was not unexpected but it comes at a time of high tension between Washington and Beijing, which regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to consolidate by force if necessary.

The sale includes 291 Altius-600M systems, which are unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, with warheads. It also includes 720 Switchblade drones known as extended-range loitering munitions, the State Department said.

It said the sale serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipients continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability. It will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region," the department said.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te thanked the U.S. for approving the latest arms sale to Taiwan during a press conference Wednesday in Taipei. He said such authorizations help to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

In the future, we will continue to strengthen Taiwans national defense strength, whether through  military purchases or our own efforts, he said.

The U.S. statement claimed that the latest weapons transfer would not affect the military balance in the region. The announcement was not unusual, although the U.S. and China have in recent months sought to smooth tense relations.

___

Associated Press writer Simina Mistreanu in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed to this report.
Northrop Grumman, an American weapons manufacturer, plans to produce ammunition in Ukraine bankrolled by Ukrainian money, the Breaking Defense magazine reported on June 18, citing a company official.

Kyiv has been courting Western arms producers in an effort to localize domestic production and decrease reliance on foreign supplies.

Northrop's agreement is the first known deal of its kind between a U.S. defense company and a Ukrainian government for producing arms in Ukraine.

"We've been working, as you know, in Ukraine to produce medium (caliber munitions). That's our first project that's paid for with Ukrainian dollars," said David Bartell, the company's director of international business, during the Eurosatory arms show in Paris.

"We are looking to expand that into tank ammo, 155 mm (artillery shells), others as we find innovative processes."

Bartell and Northrop have not elaborated further on these plans.

The company is involved in the defense and aerospace sectors and has produced B-2 Spirit and B-21 Raider stealth bomber planes used by the U.S. military, as well as RQ-4 Global Hawk surveillance drones and more.

The U.S. recently signed a bilateral security agreement with Ukraine under which it pledged to bolster Ukraine's defense industrial base, "including through cooperative defense research and development."

The state-owned Ukrainian Defense Industry (Ukrboronprom) signed a memorandum with U.S.-based Amentum Services last week on plans to set up a joint enterprise to restore and maintain American-made armored vehicles. In December 2023, Kyiv and Washington signed a statement of intent on the co-production of weapons.

While the opening of American-run defense plants in Ukraine is only in the preparatory phase, German arms producer Rheinmetall has already set up shop in the country for the repair and, eventually, production of armored vehicles.

Read also: Rheinmetall, Kyiv agree to start producing Lynx armored vehicles in Ukraine in 2024

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The Biden administration approved a $360 million weapons sale to Taiwan on Tuesday, the State Department announced.

The announcement means the U.S. will be sending the island hundreds of armed drones, missile equipment and related support material, The Associated Press reported.

The announcement comes at a time of heightened tension between Taiwan and China, which likely will condemn the sale.

While the U.S. is seen as a major ally to Taiwan, it does not formally recognize the island as a separate state from the mainland. China believes the land is part of its territory and has vowed it would consolidate by using force if necessary.

The sale includes 291 Altius-600M systems, which are unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, that have warheads. It also includes 720 Switchblade drones, known as extended-range loitering munitions, the AP reported.

The State Department said the sale serves U.S. interests by supporting the recipients continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability.

The sale will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region, the department said, per the AP.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te thanked the U.S. for the sale.

China began new military exercises around Taiwan late last month, scrambling jets and sending ships out to patrol. Beijing has criticized Lai, who campaigned on having closer relations with the United States. A Chinese spokesperson said the drills were to strongly punish the separatist forces.

Taiwan said it hopes China will stop its military operations.

It is hoped that the Peoples Liberation Army will stop its oppressive military operations around Taiwan and jointly contribute to regional stability, Taiwans defense ministry said in a statement, according to Reuters.

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.
US corporation to start manufacturing ammunition in Ukraine

American defence company Northrop Grumman intends to start producing medium-calibre ammunition in Ukraine.

Source: Breaking Defence

Details: Virginia-based Northrop Grumman plans to start producing medium-calibre ammunition in Ukraine under a joint production agreement between the Pentagon and the Ukrainian government.

There are reportedly plans to expand production to tank and artillery ammunition in the future.

The Northrop co-production agreement is the first publicly acknowledged agreement between a US defence prime contractor and the Ukrainian government on a manufacturing project in Ukraine.

The US State Department's new Ukraine Defense Enterprise Program will reportedly invest US$2 billion in Ukraine's defence industrial base and open the door to US-Ukraine joint production.

Background:

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has led to a surge in defence company revenues as the US and European governments replenish their stockpiles after sending weapons to Kyiv.

Ukrainian Defence Industry JSC and the German defence conglomerate Rheinmetall have opened a workshop for the repair and production of armoured vehicles.

Ukrainian Defence Industry JSC has signed a Memorandum of Intent to form a joint venture with Americas Amentum Services, Inc, a leading company in the field of global design, project management, and solution integration.

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The United States Department of Defense has said that Washington continues to work on training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets.

Source: Pentagon spokesman Patrick Ryder said this at a briefing, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The spokesman was asked about the United States' and its allies' expectations regarding how many Ukrainian pilots will be trained to fly F-16s this summer.

"So that's really a question that's best addressed by Ukraine. You know, they should be the ones to talk about pilot management in terms of the overall size of their fleet, their overall size of their pilot cadre, and what their expectations are in terms of how they're going to implement that program," he said.

He said that there is a possibility of additional training in other places that are being prepared in Europe.

"Our focus is on working with the air capability coalition to identify what their requirements are and then meeting those requirements. And as you know, training being conducted both in Arizona and in Denmark," Ryder said.

Background:

Earlier, MP Oleksandra Ustinova, who heads the parliamentary commission on monitoring arms supplies, said that the United States was deliberately delaying the training of Ukrainian pilots on the F-16.

Earlier, in an interview with European Pravda, Dutch Defence Minister Kajsa Ollongren said that F-16s would be delivered to Ukraine gradually, and that there would be no immediate effect of the transfer of the aircraft at the front.

On 16 June, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Danish F-16s would arrive in Ukraine in the near future.

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US and key allies debating what commitment to give on Ukraine joining NATO at upcoming summit

The United States and several key allies, including the United Kingdom, are actively debating how strongly to commit to Ukraines NATO membership at the alliances upcoming 75th anniversary summit in Washington, with the US facing criticism from a variety of European countries for not being willing to go as far as several  especially those close to Russias border  would like, according to multiple US and European sources familiar with the discussions.

US and German officials have proposed that the alliance pledge during next months summit that Ukraine has a bridge to NATO membership, rather than an irreversible path as NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in April in language that is favored by the UK and several Eastern and Central European nations, multiple sources familiar with the discussions told CNN.

The eventual language issued by the alliance about Ukraine during Julys summit in Washington is critical. It will be painstakingly debated by the allies in the days leading up and then heavily scrutinized, as it will outline to the world  Russia in particular  what the goals are for Ukraine within NATO.

At the (Washington) Summit, well be taking concrete steps to bring Ukraine closer to NATO and ensure that theres a bridge to membership, a bridge thats strong and well-lit, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said at a NATO Foreign Ministerial in Prague in late May.

A senior US official said that Biden administration officials do not think the word irreversible would get the support of the entire alliance, pointing in particular to Hungary as a likely holdout. The official said the US believes they are close to a resolution with all allies on the language but declined to preview the decision.

Some NATO members are also reluctant to use the word because Ukraine has yet to implement all of the necessary democratic and anti-corruption reforms necessary for membership, a separate US official said.

With the summit about a month away, the topic remains a central point of tension in ongoing conversations.

Most Central European countries are disappointed by the Biden administrations ambiguity and procrastination when it comes to outlining a concrete pathway forward for Ukraine, a Central European diplomat told CNN.

A second European official whose country is more aggressive on Ukraines membership than the US said that European allies have been directly lobbying the White House to make Ukraines pathway as clear as possible.

We instinctively feel a new path should be laid out, the second official said. Fast tracking [Ukraines membership] should be looked at.

In April, Stoltenberg told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv that the work we are undertaking now puts you on an irreversible path towards NATO membership, so that when the time is right, Ukraine can become a NATO member straightaway.

Still, there is a general recognition that NATOs position out of the summit needs to have advanced from last years meeting in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius, when the allies declared that Ukraines future is in NATO but didnt offer a timeline. Members of the alliance announced at the time that they would remove the requirement for a Membership Action Plan for Ukraine, making it easier for the country to join the alliance, but still declined to offer a timeline on how long that might take.

That was met with fury by Zelensky who posted on X that it was unprecedented and absurd not to have been offered a timeline for membership.

Vague commitment in 2008

It was back in 2008 at a NATO summit in Budapest that Ukraine was first offered a vague commitment of an invitation to join in the future. Ukrainians often invoke the lack of clarity dating back 16 years as an argument for deserving more, particularly when under attack by Russia.

Im certain that we will also have language expressing that Ukraine will become a member of the alliance, Stoltenberg said Tuesday at a news conference at the US State Department. The exact language, exactly what we will agree  are now discussed among allies. But Im confident we have a good solution, agreement by the summit.

The Biden administration has trumpeted its newly signed ten-year defense pact with Ukraine, which calls itself a bridge to Ukraines eventual membership in the NATO Alliance.

But for many Europeans that doesnt go far enough.

Of course wed be for irreversible, a third Eastern European official said.

Its not a big secret we are eager to get more than the US, the official added, adding they hope the US administration can remain flexible ahead of the formal meetings next month.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week that peace talks would only begin with Ukraine if Kyiv officially gives up on its NATO aspirations.

As soon as Kyiv declares that it is ready for such a decision, Putin said on Friday, an order to cease fire and begin negotiations will immediately follow from our side, literally at the same minute.

A key component of NATO membership is a mutual defense pact known as Article V that commits NATO allies to defend any member that is attacked. Ukraine has been intensifying its push to join NATO since it was first attacked by Russia in 2014.

Since the war in Ukraine began in 2022, Ukrainian and European officials have accused the US of being too afraid of provoking Putin and escalating the conflict. Ukraine has both been grateful and frustrated as it watched the US offer bigger and bigger weapons packages, but at a slower pace than it has needed.

Last month Stoltenberg indirectly criticized the Biden administration for not allowing Ukraine to use US weapons to fire into Russia, which Ukrainians have said amounts to them fighting with one hand tied behind their back.

This is a war of aggression by Russia against Ukraine, Stoltenberg told The Economist. Ukraine has the right to defend themselves. And that includes striking targets on Russian territory.

On May 30 the Biden administration announced that Ukraine could fire into Russia but only in a limited way: at military targets across the border from the city of Kharkiv and not with the most formidable US weapons, the long-range ATACMS missile.

London has often been much more forward-leaning than Washington on weaponry for Ukraine and how its used. Generally, throughout the conflict, British officials, the closest US allies in NATO, have consistently hoped the White House would take a more aggressive stance.

Officials who CNN spoke with emphasized that when it comes to the NATO communique that no decisions have been made yet and the language is still actively under discussion ahead of the summit.

When the text is on the table and the countries start to negotiate we can see the full picture, the Eastern European official said. We are ready to negotiate; of course we would like to have it be as ambitious as possible.

CNNs Jennifer Hansler contributed reporting.

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North Carolina is a state known for its beautiful landscapes, great barbecue and an affordable cost of living. In addition to affordable home prices, the state has a relatively low sales tax of 4.75%.

Check Out: Im a Home Staging Expert: Watch Out for These 5 Staging Red Flags When Youre Buying a Home

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So what are some of the best and worst cities in North Carolina for your finances? In a recent study, GOBankingRates found the cities in each state where you are most likely and least likely to live paycheck to paycheck. The averages are based on cost of expenditures, mortgage payments, cost of living and median household income.

Wealthy people know the best money secrets. Learn how to copy them.

Best City

Summerfield is the city in North Carolina where youre least likely to live paycheck to paycheck, with average leftover savings of more than $91,000. Heres a breakdown of what to expect:

Average annual cost of expenditures: $22,241

Average annual mortgage: $34,932

Average annual cost of living: $57,173

Household median income: $148,182

Leftover savings: $91,009

Worst City

Denver is the city in North Carolina where youre most likely to live paycheck to paycheck. Heres a breakdown of what to expect:

Average annual cost of expenditures: $25,101

Average annual mortgage: $39,366

Average annual cost of living: $64,467

Household median income: $65,577

Leftover savings: $1,110

Affordable Areas

If youre looking for other affordable areas of North Carolina, check out Roanoke Rapids. Its listed by the Mortgage Research Center as the most affordable housing market in the state, with home prices just north of $100,000. At just 90 minutes from Raleigh, this town offers a slower pace of life without being too remote, according to the Center.

Other affordable housing markets in the state include Rockingham, Eden, Kinston and Clinton.

Expensive Areas

You may want to avoid Chapel Hill if youre looking for a cheaper place to live. According to Raleigh Realty Homes, its among the most expensive cities in North Carolina.

Other cities making the list of most expensive in the state include Boone, Asheville, Wilmington and Cashiers.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The Best and Worst Cities in North Carolina for Your Finances
This handout photograph shared by Leslie Shedd, a member of the communication team of United States House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs shows United States congressional delegation led by Republican Rep. Michael McCaul meeting with Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama, second left, in Dharamshala, India, Wednesday, June 19, 2024. (Leslie Shedd via AP)

DHARAMSHALA, India (AP)  A bipartisan United States congressional delegation met with the Dalai Lama Wednesday at his residence in India's Dharamshala, sparking anger from China which views the exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism as a dangerous separatist.

This comes as Washington and Beijing have recently restarted talks after several years of turmoil that began after the imposition of tariffs on Chinese goods under the Trump administration. Relations at the time deteriorated even more following the COVID-19 pandemic and the rising military tensions in the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.

The high-level delegation, led by Republican Rep. Michael McCaul and including Democratic former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, arrived Tuesday at the hillside town, which the Nobel Peace Prize laureate has made his headquarters since fleeing from Tibet after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959. There, they met with officials from the Tibetan government-in-exile, which wants more autonomy for Tibet.

Beijing doesnt recognize said administration and hasnt held any dialogue with the representatives of the Dalai Lama since 2010.

After meeting the spiritual leader on Wednesday, the seven U.S. lawmakers addressed hundreds who had gathered at a monastery just outside the 88-year-old Dalai Lama's residence, waving American and Tibetan flags.

They told the crowd that a key focus of their visit was to underscore the Resolve Tibet Act, passed by the U.S. Congress last week, and aims to encourage dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese officials with the hopes of finding a peaceful resolution between Tibet and Beijing. The bill should now be sent to the White House for President Joe Biden to sign into a law.

Pelosi said the bill is a message to the Chinese government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet, eliciting applause.

McCaul, the Republican representative, said it reaffirmed American support for the Tibetan right to self-determination. Just this week our delegation received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning us not to come here... but we did not let the CCP intimidate us for we are here today, he said as people cheered.

However, the visit and newly passed bill have triggered swift backlash from Beijing.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, urged Washington on Tuesday not to support Tibetan independence and said the White House must not sign the bill into law, or China will take resolute measures," without elaborating on what they may be.

Its known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion, Lin added, urging the U.S. side to have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world.

The Dalai Lama denies being a separatist and says he only advocates substantial autonomy and protection of Tibets native Buddhist culture.

The Tibetan spiritual leader has a history of engaging with U.S. officials, including American presidents  from Jimmy Carter to Barack Obama  except for Donald Trump. He has yet to meet Biden since he took office in 2021.

The Dalai Lama is expected to travel to the U.S. on Thursday for medical treatment for his knees, but it is unclear if he will meet any officials while there.

Meanwhile, Beijing has repeatedly asked the U.S. not to interfere with Tibetan affairs and has argued that the people of Tibet have enjoyed social stability and economic growth under its rule.

While India considers Tibet to be part of China, it hosts Tibetan exiles.

___

Associated Press writer Didi Tang in Washington contributed to this report. Pathi reported from New Delhi.
By Charlotte Greenfield, David Brunnstrom and YP Rajesh

DHARAMSALA, India (Reuters) -A group of U.S. lawmakers who met the Dalai Lama in India on Wednesday said they would not allow China to influence the choice of his successor, comments expected to anger Beijing, which calls the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader a separatist.

The remarks come as Washington and Beijing seek to steady rocky ties while India pushes China to secure lasting peace on their disputed Himalayan frontier, four years after a military clash strained ties.

The lawmakers also signalled that Washington would pressure Beijing to hold talks with Tibetan leaders, stalled since 2010, to resolve the Tibet issue, with a bill they said President Joe Biden would sign soon.

Although Washington recognises Tibet as a part of China, the bill appears to question that position and any change would be a major shock to Beijing, analysts said.

The bipartisan group of seven, led by Michael McCaul, a Republican representative from Texas, who also chairs the House foreign affairs committee, met the Nobel peace laureate at his monastery in the northern Indian town of Dharamsala.

"It is still my hope that one day the Dalai Lama and his people will return to Tibet in peace," McCaul told a public reception after the meeting.

Beijing has even attempted to insert itself into choosing the successor of the Dalai Lama, he said, but added, "We will not let that happen."

The Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against Chinese rule in Tibet. The 88-year-old, who has battled health problems for years, is set to fly to the United States this week for medical treatment.

The question of the Dalai Lama's successor has been a thorny issue, which analysts say highlights the power and influence of the role, fuelling Beijing's tussle to control it.

Tibetan tradition holds that the Dalai Lama is reincarnated after his death, and the current leader has said his successor may be found in India.

Beijing has said the tradition must continue but its officially atheist Communist leaders have the right to approve the successor, as a legacy inherited from China's emperors.

TIBETANS HAIL BREAKTHROUGH

The U.S. group, which includes Democratic former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, arrived on Tuesday for a two-day visit.

Pelosi said Congress approval of the legislation, titled "Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act", or the Resolve Tibet Act, sent a message to China that Washington was clear in its thinking on the issue of Tibet.

"This bill says to the Chinese government: things have changed now, get ready for that," she said to cheers from hundreds of Tibetans at Wednesday's event.

Photographs on the Dalai Lama's website showed him holding a framed copy of the bill as the lawmakers stood alongside.

Beijing, which calls the Dalai Lama a dangerous "splittist" or separatist, has said it was seriously concerned about the bill and the lawmakers' visit, urging them not to contact what it calls the "Dalai clique" and Biden not to sign the bill.

The Indian foreign ministry offered no immediate comment on the lawmakers' visit.

Ties between the Asian rivals have been strained over their long mountainous border since army clashes in 2020 killed 20 Indian and four Chinese troops.

At the same time, concerns about China's growing might, among others, have nudged New Delhi and Washington closer in the last two decades.

While Chinese officials chafe at any interactions of the Dalai Lama with officials of other countries, Biden has not met the Tibetan leader since taking office in 2021 and it is not clear if his treatment plans will allow time for engagements.

"Presidential assent for the bill would be far more concerning for China than whether Biden or any other leader meets the Dalai Lama," said Tibet specialist Robert Barnett of London's School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS).

Congressional approval of the bill was a "significant breakthrough", Penpa Tsering, the political leader of the exiled Tibetan government, told Reuters in an interview.

He said he believed it would put pressure on Beijing to negotiate and that it could serve as a precedent for other nations to adopt similar policies to Washington.

"This will give us a tool to work with other governments, he said in his office in Dharamsala.

But the Dalai Lama had always sought "autonomy or a middle way, not independence" for Tibet, he added.

(Reporting by Charlotte Greenfield in Dharamsala, India, and David Brunnstrom in Washington; Additional reporting by Sunil Kataria; Writing by YP Rajesh; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Sharon Singleton)
A congressional delegation that met with the Dalai Lama this week has sparked anger from China, which also pushed back on recent U.S. legislation urging the country to mend ties with the spiritual leader.

The bipartisan congressional delegation, led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas), met with the Dalai Lama on Wednesday at his residence in Dharamshala, India, The Associated Press (AP) reported. The leader has resided there since fleeing Tibet in 1959.

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama smiles as he sits next to Penpa Tsering, the president of the Central Tibetan Administration, during a function marking his 88th birthday at the Tsuglakhang temple in Dharamshala, India, July 6, 2023.

The AP noted that China does not recognize officials from the Tibetan government who are in exile and has not had a dialogue with the Dalai Lama since 2010. The news service reported that the lawmakers said their visit was meant to highlight the Tibet Dispute Act passed last week that encouraged China to heal ties with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders.

Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said the White House must not sign the bill into law, according to AP. Lin warned that China will take resolute measures if the bill is signed by President Biden.

Its known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a purely religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion, Lin said.

Lin urged U.S. officials to have no contact with the Dalai group in any form, and stop sending the wrong signal to the world, AP reported.

The report said McCaul touted the success of the congressional delegation in remarks following the meeting on Wednesday.

Just this week our delegation received a letter from the Chinese Communist Party, warning us not to come here but we did not let the CCP intimidate us for we are here today, he said, according to AP.

The Associated Press contributed.

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By Andrew Hay and Jose Luis Gonzalez

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico (Reuters) - A group of migrants walked into Mexico on Saturday against pedestrian traffic on the international bridge between El Paso and Ciudad Juarez minutes after being deported from the United States under the Biden administration's new asylum ban.

The mainly twenty-something Venezuelan men were ejected under the June 5 proclamation fast-tracking deportations of most people crossing the border illegally.

In a scene that showed both the pitfalls and promises of President Joe Biden's new approach, the deportees who crossed the border only days earlier in deadly triple-digit heat, passed another group of migrants with wheelie suitcases standing in a line.

These migrants were awaiting interviews through CBP One, a mobile phone app promoted by the administration that provides a way to lawfully approach the port of entry.

Asked if he would try to cross again, a deportee with a silver cross necklace, who only gave his first name, Josuan, said: "Of course." Others nearby nodded.

All faced at least a five-year ban on entering the United States and would have to evade capture on any future crossing.

'ONLY OPTION'

U.S. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has toughened his stance on border security after immigration emerged as a top issue ahead of the Nov. 5 elections where he faces his predecessor, former Republican President Donald Trump, who promises a wide-ranging immigration crackdown if reelected.

Biden on Tuesday announced a legalization program for immigrants in the country illegally who are married to U.S. citizens. The measure was meant to back a campaign message that he differs from Trump in his support for a more humane immigration system.

For now, Biden's restrictive asylum policy, combined with tougher immigration enforcement by Mexico, appears to be lowering crossings.

Apprehensions fell just below 2500 on Sunday, the lowest daily figure since February 2021, according to a senior U.S. Customs and Border Protection official who requested anonymity in order to discuss preliminary figures.

Detentions outpaced the 1,450 CBP One appointments U.S. officials said were available daily at eight border crossings.

In past years, repeat crossings by deported migrants helped swell apprehensions to record levels.

At the Buen Samaritano migrant shelter in Ciudad Juarez, director Juan Fierro Garcia has seen a nearly 40% increase in people seeking a place to stay since Biden's order, which mirrors a Trump-era asylum ban.

"The border is practically closed, so the only legal way in is through CBP One," said Fierro Garcia, who does not accept deportees.

Honduran Fidelina Bardales, 46, said she and her two daughters, ages 15 and 5, had been waiting at Buen Samaritano a month and a half for a CBP One appointment. The app functions once migrants reach central Mexico.

"With Biden's rule, it's the only option I have," said Bardales, adding that she began a nine-month journey to the border to claim asylum after her son was shot dead for being gay and his killers threatened to "disappear" her and her daughter to stop them informing authorities.

DEATHS NEARLY DOUBLE

On the U.S. side of the bridge, Venezuelan Yenny Cisneros, 36, on Friday sat in the shade of a storefront on El Paso Street having made it through her CBP One interview. A manicurist, she had a notice to appear before an immigration judge and expected to get a work permit in about two weeks to allow her to find a job in Houston.

"I thank God and this country," said Cisneros, waiting nervously for her 20-year-old daughter to appear from the beige border control building.

The day before, June 13, she and her two daughters rested in an air-conditioned Juarez hotel room ahead of their interviews.

The same day, Mexican authorities recovered the body of a female migrant believed to be Adriana Castellanos, 23, of El Salvador, who died from dehydration in desert near the city of 1.6 million people.

Activist Alan Lizarraga said criminalization and detention of asylum seekers was forcing them to attempt desert crossings.

"Migrants are being killed by the policies of not only the United States but Mexico," said Lizarraga of the El Paso-based Border Network for Human Rights.

About one migrant a day has died from the heat in the last week in the El Paso sector where deaths have nearly doubled so far this fiscal year as Border Patrol rescues nearly tripled, according to a U.S. border officials.

Speaking in a mountainous area west of El Paso where most migrants cross, U.S. Border Patrol agent Orlando Marrero Rubio said the rise in deaths was due to an earlier than usual start to hot weather and inhumane treatment of migrants by criminal groups that control human trafficking.

NO FEAR?

To the northeast of the city, intakes were significantly down at a sprawling migrant processing center where nearly all people apprehended were facing an "expedited removal" process.

Prior to Biden's new restrictions on asylum, most migrants who crossed the border were allowed into the United States after interviews in which an official would ask if they feared returning to their country or being deported.

"They're not manifesting fear," said a border official, who requested anonymity to be able to discuss changes in processing operations, while commenting on whether migrants were requesting interviews to be considered for asylum.

Alejandro Mayorkas, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, told reporters many migrants were traveling for economic or other reasons rather than fear of persecution.

He expected the new rules to have increasing impact.

Back at the Buen Samaritano shelter in Ciudad Juarez, Venezuelan Alejandro Wilchez, 24, said his plans had changed after Texas National Guard soldiers fired pepper balls at his family last week as they tried to reach the border fence just east of downtown El Paso.

Like Republican leaders elsewhere, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has used troops to prevent migrants from crossing the border.

Wilchez's one-and-a-half month old daughter bled from the nose and mouth after inhaling pepper gas and his wife was badly cut on razor wire as they tried to make it onto U.S. soil and claim asylum. Abbott's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Now the family is awaiting a CBP One appointment.

"I don't want my daughter to die crossing," said Wilchez, as he and his family rested inside during the afternoon heat, and his baby still suffering from a fever she developed after being hospitalized for inhaling pepper gas.

(Reporting By Andrew Hay and Jose Luis Gonzalez; editing by Donna Bryson, Mica Rosenberg and Aurora Ellis)
Biden administration officials increasingly doubt that Israel and Hamas will reach a comprehensive cease-fire deal under the current framework, according to four U.S. officials familiar with the negotiations.

The deal, if agreed, is supposed to unfold in three phases. Phase 1 pauses fighting for six weeks, allowing for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the populated areas of Gaza, the release of hostages and the freeing of Palestinian prisoners. In the second phase, Israel and Hamas are supposed to try to negotiate an end to all hostilities and the release of the remaining hostages. Reconstruction of Gaza would take place in Phase 3.

Israel and Hamas generally agree to the conditions stipulated under Phase 1 but they are at odds over how to officially end the war, according to two of the officials, who, like the others, were granted anonymity to speak freely about sensitive negotiations. Despite initial optimism about the deal, officials now believe those disagreements could upend the entire pact.

Phase 2 is the sticking point, one of the officials said. If Phase 1 couldve been done in a vacuum, we wouldve done it by now.



Hamas wants Israel to agree to a full withdrawal from Gaza. But Israeli officials have said they will not agree to completely pull back from the enclave until its forces have fully dismantled Hamas  a goal that could take months if not years to achieve.

Hamas will not sign off on any part of the deal  even an initial cease-fire  until Israel agrees to its demands. In effect, Hamas has given an all-or-nothing ultimatum that Israel is unlikely to approve. Neither side shows signs that it is willing to compromise, worrying Biden officials that the fighting will last for months longer.

I think this is going to go on until at least the end of 2024, one of the officials said.

The National Security Council declined to comment. The Israeli embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Theres an agreement that there would be continued negotiations at the end of six weeks. At least we would have had a cease-fire. At least we would have had a halt to the suffering, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters in a briefing June 13. Now, therell be continued haggling and a delay in the cease-fire, and thats what we were disappointed in.

The situation has frustrated humanitarian groups, many of whom have been briefed by the administration on the current state of negotiations and say they cannot effectively help Gazans without a pause in fighting. An armistice is the only way to ensure people on the ground have consistent access to food and much needed medical aid.

The administration is pushing hard for both Israel and Hamas to agree to the deal, a representative from one of the major aid groups working in Gaza said. But everything seems on hold for the moment.

Since the beginning of the year, senior U.S. officials have become increasingly skeptical about finding a way to swiftly end the war. The goal has been to get Israel and Hamas to  at the very least  agree to the initial six-week cease-fire that could allow for the release of dozens of hostages taken by the militant group in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel and offer better conditions for the distribution of aid in Gaza, thwarting a potential famine.

U.S. officials calculated that even if Hamas and Israel reached an initial short-term cease-fire deal, there was a high possibility it would break down. Cease-fires have a history of falling apart in Gaza during wartime and both sides are steadfast in their conditions for ending the war under Phase 2 of the deal.

The Biden administration has spent the last several weeks trying to broker an agreement between Israel and Hamas. Top officials have traveled to Israel and Doha in an attempt to find a resolution. They are now publicly blaming Hamas for creating obstacles to peace.

Hamas submitted changes to the three-phase deal. Some of those amendments are potentially admissible, U.S. officials have said. Some are not.

Officials have not detailed what, specifically, Israel has agreed to and how Hamas wants to alter the details of the deal currently on the table. But officials are not optimistic the two sides will be able to quickly resolve their differences.

No one is confident this deal is going to move forward in the way the administration had hoped, said one of the officials, who was briefed by the White House about the state of the cease-fire negotiations. There are so many unknowns.


A US politician was caught pouring cups of water into her colleagues bag in a campaign of torment that allegedly lasted for months.

Mary Morrissey, 67, has since apologised for her unbecoming behaviour and insisted it was not reflective of the decades she has spent as a representative in Vermonts general assembly.

Ms Morrissey did not say why she started drenching a bag belonging to Jim Carroll, a fellow representative for the town of Bennington whom she has known since childhood.

Mr Carroll, 62, accused Ms Morrissey of acting like a sadist and said he was baffled that she had targeted him.

He had been the paper boy for her mother while growing up in Vermont and remembers being invited into her family home at Christmas.

However, when he was elected to the states general assembly in 2019, he said Ms Morrissey was surly. Their relationship nosedived when she apparently said his parents would be ashamed of his support for abortion rights.

Mary Morrissey pours water into Jim Carroll's bag

Mr Carroll said his bag had been drenched about twice a week in January this year while hanging outside his office. By February, he claimed it was happening almost every day.

It was torment, he said.

Suspecting Ms Morrissey was behind the campaign, he set up a inch-long spy camera on his winter coat and concealed it behind a scarf to catch the culprit.

On two occasions in April, it captured the 67-year-old politician pouring a glass of water into his green tote bag.

In the very first video youll see Mary come out and its that helmet hair, white hair, thats unmistakeable, Mr Carroll said.

You dont actually see her face but that hair  nobody else in the statehouse has hair like that.

Morrissey elbowed me and told people I smell

Mr Carroll claimed Ms Morrissey had repeatedly bullied him over the years, and elbowed into him just minutes after he was sworn in as a representative.

Her favourite was she would say in front of other legislators, shed sniff loudly and say What is that smell? and recoil from me, Mr Carroll, who suffers from neuropathy, said. It made me feel like s---.

Ms Morrissey, who has been a Vermont representative since 1997, said she was truly ashamed for drenching her colleagues bag in Vermonts general assembly on Monday.

It was conduct most unbecoming of my position as a representative and as a human being, and is not reflective of my 28 years of service and civility, she told lawmakers.

Mr Carroll responded: Im going to be quite frank with you for five months, I went through this. And each month, each day that I went through this, Representative Morrissey had a choice to make.

Ms Morrissey also apologised to her colleague in a private meeting. Mr Carroll was unconvinced and told her: Bulls---.

Its just cruel to do it  to know that youre inflicting pain on somebody else and youre suffering, he said.

I told her there were days, weeks, that I walked around this place paranoid looking at my fellow legislators thinking, Is it him? Is it her?

I stopped going to the cafeteria I didnt want to feel that way toward my fellow legislators.

A former colleague of both wrote in the Manchester Journal: What the heck has gotten into Mary Morrissey?

Ms Morrissey has been approached for comment by The Telegraph.

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US postpones supply of Patriot missiles to Switzerland due to prioritising Ukraine

The United States will be unable to equip Switzerland with missiles for Patriot air defence systems within the projected time frame due to their prioritisation of fresh deliveries to Ukraine.

Source: Swiss tabloid Blick, citing sources, and later the information was confirmed by the government of the country, reports European Pravda

Details: Switzerland's Federal Office for Defence Procurement announced Wednesday that deliveries of Patriot missiles will be delayed due to a US government decision and will most likely not be able to proceed as planned.

It was projected that the Swiss army would adopt PAC-3 MSE guided missiles for the Patriot air defence system in 2030 and 2031. This timing might now be shifted due to the agreement's reference to foreshadowing conditions, which the United States refers to as the conflict in Ukraine.

Quote: "Switzerland again needs an independent and strong defence industry, as well as diversification of purchases between manufacturers and countries," the Swiss Federal Office for Defence Procurement emphasised.

Switzerland announced the signing of a contract with the US government for the purchase of PAC-3 MSE guided missiles for Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems in October 2023.

The PAC-3 MSE (Missile Segment Enhancement) is the newest type of missile for the Patriot and is mainly used to defend against short-range warheads.

The new weapons are part of the Swiss Armed Forces' Air2030 air defence upgrading programme. Within the initiative, the country has also reached an agreement to purchase new F-35A aircraft.

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US wants Netherlands, Japan to further restrict chipmaking equipment to China

By Karen Freifeld and Toby Sterling

(Reuters) -A U.S. official was heading to Japan after meeting with the Dutch government to urge the allies to further restrict China's ability to produce cutting-edge semiconductors, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Alan Estevez, the U.S. export policy chief, is visiting both countries this week as part of attempts to expand a 2023 agreement between the three countries to keep chipmaking equipment from China that could help to modernise its military.

In a response on Wednesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China was opposed to the U.S. "coercing other countries and suppressing China's semiconductor industry".

"This behaviour has seriously hindered the development of the global semiconductor industry and will eventually backfire," Lin told a press briefing in Beijing.

A spokesperson for the Dutch foreign ministry confirmed a meeting had taken place in the Netherlands on Monday.

Japan's industry ministry said it has various exchanges with the United States but would not comment on diplomatic interactions.

The U.S. first imposed restrictions in 2022 on shipments of advanced chips and chipmaking equipment to China from companies including California-based Nvidia and Lam Research.

Last July, to align with U.S. policy, Japan, home to chip equipment makers Nikon Corp and Tokyo Electron, curbed exports of 23 types of equipment, from machines that deposit films on silicon wafers to devices that etch out the microscopic circuits.

Then the Dutch government rolled out a licensing requirement for Netherlands-based ASML's deep ultraviolet (DUV) semiconductor equipment to China, leading the company to say Chinese customers should not expect to receive its best machines after Jan. 1 2024.

ASML is the world's biggest chip equipment maker by sales and market capitalisation.

The U.S. later imposed restrictions on additional DUV machines to a handful of Chinese factories, claiming jurisdiction because ASML's systems contain some U.S. parts and components.

RESTRICTED LIST COULD GET LONGER

Washington is talking to the allies about adding more Chinese chipmaking factories to that restricted list, the sources said. There are at least five factories on it, one source said, including at least one owned by SMIC, China's largest contract chipmaker.

The U.S. also wants to control more chipmaking equipment, one source said, asking not to be named because they were not authorised to speak publicly on the issue.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Commerce Department declined comment.

The Dutch Foreign Ministry said Monday's meeting was part of ongoing talks on export policy and security between the U.S. and the Netherlands.

The Netherlands "always has continual contact with our allies," the spokesperson said.

U.S. officials also visited the Netherlands in April to try to stop ASML from servicing some equipment in China. Under U.S. rules, U.S. firms are barred from servicing equipment at advanced Chinese factories.

But ASML's existing servicing contracts are still in place, both sources said. One said the issue remains under discussion. The Dutch government has not agreed to the U.S. requests but does not rule out doing so.

ASML said in April it expected to be able to service most of the billions of euros worth of equipment it has sold to China though the end of 2024, though it cannot use spare parts from the U.S. that would fall under U.S. restrictions. ASML declined to comment on Wednesday.

A right-wing Dutch government is due to take office in early July, making it difficult to agree any significant change on export restrictions.

Sanctioned Chinese telecoms giant Huawei last year came out with a phone powered by a sophisticated chip. The Huawei Mate 60 Pro was seen as a symbol of the China's technological resurgence despite Washington's efforts.

(Reporting by Karen Freifeld, Toby Sterling, Sam Nussey, Bernard Orr; Editing by David Gregorio, Miral Fahmy and Barbara Lewis)
Embattled Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun spent two hours Tuesday trying to persuade largely skeptical senators that the beleaguered aircraft maker had committed to safety since a pair of deadly crashes six years ago.

Democrat and Republican lawmakers alike grilled Calhoun at a hearing of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations over a series of in-flight mishaps that have dogged the company this yearthe latest safety blunders since a pair of crashes in 2018 and 2019 killed nearly 350 people.

Calhoun, testifying for the first and possibly last time, denied widespread accusations that Boeing retaliates against employees who bring up safety concerns.

I often cite and reward the people who bring issues forward, even if they have huge consequences on our company and our production, he said. We work hard to reach out to our people.

The genesis of the hearing was an incident that occurred on an Alaska Airlines flight in January, when a part of the fuselage from a Boeing 737 Max 9 was torn from the body of the plane mid-flight. Calhoun told lawmakers that in the immediate aftermath of the Alaska Airlines flight, Boeing conducted companywide feedback sessions with employees on ways to improve safety, and that the aircraft manufacturer had made significant changes to its incentives structure in the past year.

Im trying to deal with 30,000 ideas on how we can move forward, he said.

Thats not what current and former employees have alleged. Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, the chairman of the hearing, told Calhoun that a dozen whistleblowers had reported a host of retaliatory measures to the subcommittee, including reassignment, exclusion from key meetings, verbal assault, even physical threats.

Boeing manager and whistleblower John Barnett, who died in March of an apparent suicide, received 21 phone calls from his supervisor in a single day, and 19 on another day, after Barnett raised concerns about missing parts. According to Blumenthal, when Barnett confronted the supervisor about the calls, the supervisor told him he would push him until he broke.

I listened to the whistleblowers who appeared at your hearing, Calhoun told Blumenthal. Something went wrong, and I believe the sincerity of their remarks.

In the wake of the Alaska Airlines disaster a wave of whistleblowers have added fuel to the investigations into Boeing. Before the hearing, the subcommittee released claims from a quality inspector, Sam Mohawk, who alleged that Boeing lost track of as many as 400 737 Max aircraft parts.

One of the primary questions the subcommittee addressed was whether Boeing had actually made any substantial changes to their quality and safety controls in the last five years.

Story continues

In 2021, the company settled a lawsuit with the Justice Department after two plane crashes in 2018 and 2019 killed 346 people. Boeing paid a $243.6 million fine in exchange for avoiding charges that it deceived regulators about a flight system. The DOJ is now alleging that Boeing failed to make agreed-upon changes to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.

I think youve certainly demonstrated that you can talk about these changes, but actually making them might require a different team, Blumenthal said.

Josh Hawley, Republican senator from Missouri, accused Calhoun of strip mining" the company, saying the chief executive had deliberately chosen to maximize profits and share price at the expense of safety.

Weve had multiple whistleblowers come before this committee and allege that Boeing is cutting every possible corner on quality and safety, Hawley said. Not just in the past, but now.

Hawley went as far to ask Calhoun why he hadnt resigned yet, but the CEO defended his record at the head of Boeing.

I'm proud of having taken the job, Calhoun responded. I'm proud of our safety record. Im proud of every action we have taken.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
The logo of the TikTok platform is displayed on a smartphone. Monika Skolimowska/dpa

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has referred a complaint against the popular video-sharing app TikTok and its Chinese parent company ByteDance to the Department of Justice, alleging that they failed to protect children's privacy.

The FTC said in a statement on Tuesday that it "uncovered reason to believe" TikTok and ByteDance are "violating or are about to violate" the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act.

The regulator did not provide any further details of the alleged violations in its statement.

The FTC said that it does not typically make referrals of complaints public, but "determined that doing so here is in the public interest."

The FTC is responsible for consumer protection in the US and also plays an important role in competition policy.

TikTok rejected the allegations in a statement on X, noting it had been in talks with the FTC for more than a year.

"We're disappointed the agency is pursuing litigation instead of continuing to work with us on a reasonable solution," it said.

TikTok also said that many of the FTC's allegations related to past events and practices and were factually inaccurate or have been addressed.

In 2019, TikTok agreed to pay $5.7 million to settle FTC allegations against its predecessor company, Musical.ly, concerning the collection of data from children under the age of 13 without parental consent, in violation of US law.

According to the FTC, the current investigation into TikTok and its Chinese-based parent company ByteDance began with an audit to determine whether the platform was complying with the terms of the previous agreement.

TikTok is currently involved in a separate legal battle in the US over a proposed law that would force a change of ownership. US politicians are concerned that the Chinese government could potentially access data from American users through ByteDance and use the app for propaganda. TikTok denies the allegations and has taken legal action in the US.
The logo of the TikTok platform is displayed on a smartphone. Monika Skolimowska/dpa

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has referred a complaint against the popular video-sharing app TikTok and its Chinese parent company ByteDance to the Department of Justice, alleging that they failed to protect children's privacy.

The FTC said in a statement on Tuesday that it "uncovered reason to believe" TikTok and ByteDance are "violating or are about to violate" the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act.

The regulator did not provide any further details of the alleged violations in its statement.

The FTC said that it does not typically make referrals of complaints public, but "determined that doing so here is in the public interest."

The FTC is responsible for consumer protection in the US and also plays an important role in competition policy.

TikTok rejected the allegations in a statement on X, noting it had been in talks with the FTC for more than a year.

"We're disappointed the agency is pursuing litigation instead of continuing to work with us on a reasonable solution," it said.

TikTok also said that many of the FTC's allegations related to past events and practices and were factually inaccurate or have been addressed.

In 2019, TikTok agreed to pay $5.7 million to settle FTC allegations against its predecessor company, Musical.ly, concerning the collection of data from children under the age of 13 without parental consent, in violation of US law.
US soldier sentenced to nearly 4 years in Russian prison on theft conviction

An American soldier has been sentenced to nearly four years in a Russian prison after he pleaded guilty to theft.

A court in Russias eastern city of Vladivostok convicted Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, 34, of stealing and making threats of murder, sentencing him to three years and nine months in prison, The Associated Press reported.

Black was arrested in Vladivostok on May 2 and placed in pretrial detention. He admitted guilt and was cooperating with the investigation with the help of an English translator after he was accused of stealing from his girlfriend.

Russias state news agencies reported that the judge also ordered Black to pay 10,000 rubles, or $115, in damages. Prosecutors asked for a sentence of four years and eight months, the AP noted.

The sentencing comes amid heightened tensions over Russia arresting several Americans as the war in Ukraine carries on. The U.S. State Department strongly urges Americans not to go to Russia.

Black was stationed at Camp Humphreys in South Korea before making an unauthorized trip to Russia. The U.S. Department of Defense said he was processed out of the South Korea station on April 10 and was leaving to be stationed in Texas when he traveled to Russia for personal reasons.

His mother claims he was lured to Russia by his girlfriend, Aleksandra Vashchuk, and set up.

The couple reportedly had a conflict when he arrived in Russia and Vashchuk discovered money was missing and turned to law enforcement for help, Russian state-run media reported.

The Russian Foreign Affairs Ministry office said Blacks detention has nothing to do with politics or espionage, but the U.S. Defense Department said it is investigating the circumstances of his arrest.

The Hill has reached out to the White House for comment.

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US soldier sentenced to nearly four years in Russia's penal colony, Russian agencies report

mGordon Black, a U.S. Army staff sergeant detained in Russia, appears in court in Vladivostok

(Reuters) - A U.S. soldier who has been detained in the Russian city of Vladivostok on suspicion of theft and threats to kill his girlfriend was sentenced to three years and nine months in a Russian penal colony, Russian agencies reported on Wednesday.

Russia's RIA state news agency reported that his defence lawyer said they will appeal the sentencing.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Christopher Cushing)
What a US Supreme Court case could mean for Michigans red flag law

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  The U.S. Supreme Court is considering a challenge to a federal law that prevents many domestic abusers from having guns.

If the courts ruling on United States v. Rahimi strikes down that federal standard, legal experts say it could threaten Michigans red flag law.

Zackey Rahimi, a Texas man convicted of domestic violence charges, lost his right to carry firearms after his former girlfriend was granted a restraining order by a state court. But Rahimi still hung onto his firearms and was later involved in five shootings in 2020. Rahimi was later indicted for violating a federal law of having guns while under a domestic violence restraining order. He later sued and took his fight to the nations highest court.

The court is expected to make a ruling in the next few weeks about whether the federal law preventing people under domestic violence restraining orders from having firearms is constitutional.

Few guns confiscated in first months of red flag law

On average, more than 12 million women and men are victims of domestic violence every year. Survivors advocates say women are five times more likely to be killed when their abuser has access to a gun.

Those supporting Rahimis case say his right to own a gun is protected under the Second Amendment.

Michael McDaniel, a constitutional law professor at Cooley Law School, doesnt expect the high court to side with Rahimi, based on how the justices acted during oral arguments last year.

The Supreme Court was very skeptical of allowing an individual like Rahimi to have a right to a firearm, McDaniel said. Justice Roberts even asked his attorney, Your clients a bad guy, right?'

While the case challenges the federal gun restrictions, many states have their own red-flag laws.

Michigan has had one since February. It allows police, family members and mental health professionals to go to a judge and ask for an extreme risk protection order. A judge can then order police to take away someones guns if theyre shown to be a threat to themselves or others.

While McDaniel doesnt expect the court to overturn the federal law, he says if it does, it would threaten Michigans red flag law. Gun owners could file suit, arguing that it unconstitutional.

I would think red flag laws, extreme risk protection orders like we have in Michigan, would be under reconsideration by the courts as well, McDaniel said.

Man pleads to federal charge in death of 2-year-old in Lansing

McDaniel said legal experts, prosecutors and police are closely watching the case following the courts 2022 ruling in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen. In that case, the court struck down a more than 100-year-old New York gun law that had placed restrictions on carrying a concealed handgun in public places.

In the majority opinion by Justice Clarence Thomas, the court used a standard that the government must then justify its regulation by demonstrating that it is consistent with the Nations historical tradition of firearm regulation. Since then, several plaintiffs have successfully overturned gun regulations because they didnt meet the historical standard test.

One conservative justice, Amy Coney Barrett, has already expressed concern over continuing to apply that standard. Its unclear whether fellow conservatives Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Brett Kavanaugh would support it either.

Thats why McDaniel doesnt believe the court will apply the historical standard rationale in the Rahimi case or overturn the federal law.

I dont think were going to have an opinion as strong as Bruen, McDaniel said.

McDaniel said he hopes Roberts will use the Rahimi decision to clarify the Bruen ruling and the courts standard going forward with the Second Amendment.

A decision is expected later this month or early next month.

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The United States has paused safety inspections for avocados and mangoes from Mexico after an incident reportedly threatened the safety of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) staff, according to several local news reports. Per Reuters, two staff members were held against their will and physically assaulted during a protest concerning police pay in the municipality of Paracho.

The USDA told Reuters that Mexican exports from the western state of Michoacan have not been blocked. Additionally, avocados and mangos already in transit wouldnt be affected by the suspension of inspections, which would be paused "until further notice."

The (safety inspection) programs will remain paused until the security situation is reviewed and protocols and safeguards are in place, a spokesperson for the agency told the outlet.

On Friday, the USDA told the Avocado Exporting Producers and Packers of Mexico (APEAM) of its decision to halt new exports out of Michoacan temporarily. APEAM President Julio Sahagun Calderon said in a Monday statement obtained by Bloomberg that the organization is working intensely and in close collaboration with government authorities to resume exports from Michoacan to the US. The events that led to the pause were outside of the sectors control, he added.

An increase in demand for avocados has caused Mexican cartels to infiltrate the industry  so much so, that gang violence and extortion have exacerbated water supply issues and deforestation in Michoacan, Axios reported. This is the second time the USDA has suspended avocado imports from Mexico. The previous suspension was announced in February of 2022 and lasted a week.
Senior Advisor to the US President Amos Hochstein (L) meets with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut. -/Parliament of Lebanon/dpa

While the US is attempting to reach a ceasefire between Israel and the pro-Iranian Hezbollah militia in south Lebanon, Israel's army on Tuesday greenlighted planning for an offensive in the neighbouring country.

High-ranking commanders approved "operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon" as part of a "situational assessment in the Northern Command," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said on Tuesday evening.

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz meanwhile warned of an escalation of tensions in the north of the country bordering Lebanon.

"We are very close to the moment of decision to change the rules against Hezbollah and Lebanon," Katz said in a post on social media platform X. "In an all-out war, Hezbollah will be destroyed and Lebanon will be severely hit."

It came after Hezbollah released drone images earlier on Tuesday which it said show areas near the northern Israeli port city of Haifa.

"[Hezbollah leader Hassan] Nasrallah boasts today about filming the ports of Haifa, operated by international companies from China and India, and threatens to attack them," Katz said on X.

"The State of Israel will pay a price on the front and home fronts, but with a strong and united nation, and the full power of the IDF, we will restore security to the residents of the north," Katz continued.

US envoy on mission to avert escalation

US special envoy Amos Hochstein was in Beirut on Tuesday in an effort to de-escalate the situation.

Hochstein said Washington was working to avoid "a greater war" between Israel and Hezbollah as he held talks with top Lebanese officials.

"We have seen an escalation over the last few weeks and what [US] President [Joe] Biden wants to do is to avoid a further escalation to a greater war. That is the effort here," Hochstein told reporters after holding talks with Lebanon's House Speaker Nabih Berri, a close ally of Hezbollah.

"This is a very serious situation that we are in," the US official said. "We believe that there is a pathway diplomatically" to end the conflict, Hochstein said.

"We continue to seek to stop the escalation, restore security and stability, and stop the ongoing violations of Lebanese sovereignty and the acts of systematic killing and destruction committed by Israel," Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said in a statement after meeting the US envoy.

Hochstein had visited Israel on Monday. Benny Gantz, an opposition leader in Israel, reportedly told him then that "time is running out" to reach any sort of diplomatic deal to reinstate calm along Israel's northern border with Lebanon.

Gantz stressed to Hochstein that he is committed to "removing the threat Hezbollah poses to the citizens of northern Israel, regardless of developments on the war in Gaza," his office said.

Escalating violence on the border

Since the start of the war in the Gaza Strip in October, there have been daily clashes between the Israeli army, Hezbollah and allied groups in the border area between Israel and Lebanon.

Israel wants to use military and diplomatic pressure to ensure that Hezbollah retreats behind the Litani River, 30 kilometres from the border - as stipulated in an important UN resolution on the 2006 conflict.

Hochstein, referring to Biden's May 31 proposal for a Gaza ceasefire, stressed that a ceasefire provides an alternative diplomatic solution which could bring the conflict on the Lebanese-Israel border to an end as well as return displaced people on both sides of the border to their homes.

About 150,000 people have been evacuated or have left the combat zone due to violence which started on the Lebanese-Israeli border on October 8.

According to Israeli information, Hezbollah - which is trained and financed by Iran - has an arsenal of at least 150,000 rockets that could reach targets across Israel.

Senior Advisor to the US President Amos Hochstein (L) meets with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut. -/Parliament of Lebanon/dpa
The unmistakeable howl of jet fuel starters breaks the morning silence as four Eagles begin to start their engines at Eglin Air Force Base, located on the sun-soaked Florida Panhandle. While F-15 Eagles have been commonplace at Eglin for decades, these particular jets are newcomers. These are the first of the brand new F-15EX Eagle IIs, the U.S. Air Forces latest fighters. The USAF has an integrated team of expert testers, working on a highly aggressive schedule, to fast-track testing of the new Boeing F-15EX in order to rapidly bring it into operational service. The War Zone visited Eglin AFB to learn exactly how theyve been able to achieve this ambition. The F-15EX Eagle II has been procured as an off-the-shelf replacement for the USAFs aging fleet of F-15C/D Eagles as these combat-tested fighters run out of flying hours. The Air Force sees its air superiority Eagle fleet, the youngest of which is nearly 40-years-old, as too old to be cost-effectively maintained and are in need of replacement quickly and efficiently, with minimal impact on squadron readiness. Procuring brand new Advanced F-15s to refresh the existing F-15C/D fleet was deemed to be the most efficient way to recapitalize the fleet. Existing Eagle units that have decades of experience with the fighter are getting factory-fresh versions of a highly mature aircraft that has a proven track record, with the added benefit of a host of new capabilities that have been infused into the jet after decades of evolution that was largely funded by the export market. An F-15EX alongside an F-15E Strike Eagle at Eglin Air Force Base. USAF/1st Lt. Karissa Rodriguez In addition, the USAF is aligning the software in its F-15EXs with its existing F-15E Strike Eagles, making for more cohesive fleets that enable aircrews to more easily convert between the two variants, with both receiving upgraded software in tandem through agile updates. The Eagle has been a robust platform for 50 years now. From the maiden flight of the first YF-15A back in 1972 to the present day, the F-15 has been truly dominating in the air superiority role, says Lt. Col. Robert Waller, commander of the 40th Flight Test Squadron (FLTS) at Eglin Air Force Base, in Florida, who spoke exclusively to The War Zone. In the 1980s we added air-to-ground capabilities with the F-15E Strike Eagle. That added new challenges  the same payload, but additional distribution of the loads on the airframe, lots of drag, extra gas, and operations in pretty harsh environments  flying low and fast rather than high and fast. The airplane gets beaten up quite a bit in that operational environment. The USAF is attempting to introduce the F-15EX into service quickly and efficiently, and Lt. Col. Wallers squadron is a critical part translating this urgency into flight-testing efforts. The 40th FLTS is the Development Test (DT) element of the F-15EX Combined Test Force (CTF) at Eglin that also includes Operational Test (OT) and it is mandated with ensuring the new Eagle II is ready and effective for operational squadrons. The F-15EX Operational Flight Program Combined Test Force patch. Jamie Hunter The F-15EX provides a lot of improvements and new capabilities of both modernization and sustainment, with a more modern approach to suit the operational environment, which really led to the entire acquisition of this platform, Waller explained. It carries a lot of ordnance, has high fuel capacity, advanced sensor capability that includes a modern electronic warfare system thats inherent to the platform. Pretty much everything you would want on an Eagle, or that the USAF is actively putting on Eagles, comes in the baseline F-15EX. Its an impressive machine. The Air Force placed its initial order for eight new F-15EXs in 2020, and the first aircraft was formally accepted by the service on March 10, 2021, before being ferried to Eglin AFB the following day to begin a dedicated USAF flight-test program run by the CTF. To help expedite the testing needed to declare the F-15EX ready for operations, the team at Eglin leveraged previous test data from F-15 foreign military sales variants and married it up with the limited number of U.S.-only sub-systems and Operational Flight Program (OFP) software that are present on the F-15EX. We did two things that were pretty awesome when it came to defense acquisition, explains Waller. The 2016 National Defense Authorization Act [NDAA] authorized capability called the Section 804 Authorities, which has since evolved into what we now call in the Department of Defense the middle tier acquisition [MTA] framework. The F-15EX was a middle tier acquisition , so its an Air Force rapid prototyping capability, which is a new framework in the way we acquire hardware and software. This was something new to our execution here as a developmental test organization. Tails of an F-15EX and F-15E of the 40th Flight Test Squadron. USAF/Samuel King Jr. The second factor was an aggressively scheduled, objective-based, integrated test strategy. The idea is that we tie together the acquisition, developmental test, and operational test, as one executed plan rather than the more traditional sequential approach to that series of events. This way we can start working on more of the operationally focused capabilities earlier while the developers are moving on to other evaluations in parallel. This means we can start work where its feasible or when low risk with the operational testers and even train mission sets significantly earlier than you would under a traditional framework. We have a beginning-to-end full acquisition and test process at this one site here [at Eglin]. We have science and technology developers here from the Air Force Research Laboratory, program office representatives and the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, developmental testers, operational testers, everybody on one site. So, its really easy for us to get together as integrated teams with shared facilities, shared aircraft, and shared execution, so that helps us to really expedite things. F-15EXs EX3 and EX4 arrive at Eglin Air Force Base on December 20, 2023. USAF/Staff Sgt. Blake Wiles Some of the flight-test work for the Advanced F-15 over the past decade has included both Boeing and USAF testers working in unison. This included flight sciences testing of the new digital fly-by-wire system that was first introduced in the F-15SA for the Royal Saudi Air Force and which ran for six years from 2013. This work meant that the USAF test community was already very familiar with the latest production variants of the Eagle. There are still some features and operational procedures that are unique to the USAFs F-15EXs, which means that while the introduction of the fighter is streamlined, there is still a comprehensive testing requirement. We had to judge what we could leverage from those foreign military sales. Our operational environment and operational use cases may not be the same as some of our partner nations [that have purchased the Advanced F-15] through a foreign military sales program, Waller explains. Thats something weve had to look at  what was procured and developed for our foreign partners for their strategic needs. Does that match the USAF use case and operational environment for our strategic needs? Those overlaps could philosophically be 100% or they could be zero. By evaluating that in our use case and our operational environment, we could see if perhaps theres an opportunity for us to find other things we could do with the platform that perhaps our foreign partners didnt need. If we could find those overlaps, we used them, and that helps us accelerate acquisition. If we found things that were of strategic value to our country, we had to make sure they work for our warfighters as quickly as possible. The direction of this test plan originated from the Joint Staff in the Pentagon and the DoDs Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS) requirements generation process that assesses how different platforms and capabilities fit within joint warfighting concepts. In other words, how the USAF is going to utilize or be tasked to execute its wartime mission as a combined force with the other services. From there, Air Combat Command is the hub for the specific requirements generation around fighter aircraft for the respective System Program Offices (SPOs) to develop acquisition strategies. Its our job to ensure that the systems meet that intended role for our joint force, Waller explained. Pre-flight checks for an F-15EX toting 12 AIM-120 AMRAAMs. Jamie Hunter Experienced F-15E Strike Eagle pilot Gen. Mark Grace Kelly was the commander of Air Combat Command when the USAF initially purchased the F-15EX, and he completed conversion training in September 2021 to enable him to fly the F-15EX. Gen. Kelly made it very clear in his public address here that the F-15EX is going to have an inherent capability that we need to put to work from day one, to include limited air-to-ground capability, said Waller. This requirement was part of the middle tier acquisition to verify that the F-15EX can perform certain capabilities in both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles, something that Waller says the CTF does every day. Right now, were flying in whatever configuration is required for the particular test point, explains Lt. Col. Waller. The first two F-15EXs came with Conformal Fuel Tanks (CFTs) fitted, which were previously owned [the fuel tanks] by the Air National Guard. However, the following jets off the Boeing production line have not been equipped with these tanks, although they are all plumbed to carry them. The USAF is planning to procure CFTs for its F-15EXs, although as of yet these are not on contract. You can read more about this here. When required to do so in accordance with the MTA goals, we fly with CFTs. We have two sets of CFTs for our EXs and when required we fit them. From a developmental test perspective, that work is about verifying weapons carriage capability  the CFTs have air-to-ground munitions stations, and when you remove the CFTs those bomb stations go with them. The fuselage shoulder stations are for air-to-air missiles. Some days youll see F-15EXs with no CFTs and external fuel tanks fitted like a normal F-15C configuration. You could easily see six jets in six different configurations based on the need of the test program on that particular day. This F-15EX is equipped with Conformal Fuel Tanks (CFTs). Jamie Hunter Theres a difference between flying a jet thats fitted with CFTs and one that isnt. They give us a lot of extra fuel  roughly 10,000 pounds  which equates to a lot of weight, and theyre big, so they bring some drag, so you see a difference in performance. The beauty of the fly-by-wire system in the EX is that its optimizing to give you the same feeling from a pilot control perspective. The fly-by-wire also opens up those wing pylons 1 and 9, which brings a lot of added capability in terms of extra air-to-air missile carriage. They were inherent to the original Eagle, but the risks associated with using those stations [the lateral asymmetry of stores on the two widest weapons stations] meant we stopped using those in the 1970s. That risk has been completely eliminated now with the new fly-by-wire system, which means using the outer wing stations is now routine for the F-15EX. With the CTF at Eglin having grown to include six F-15EXs means we have now been able to conduct MTA requirements for four-ship operations, and now were into an agile software framework, which means we are already conducting modernization of the platform, Waller explains. Right now were into OFP [Operational Flight Program software] development under CD&I [Continuous Development and Integration], which is the nomenclature for OFP development for Eagle thats now common across the F-15E and EX. We no longer have active development test on the F-15C for the active-duty, because the Air Force is divesting those aircraft. An F-15EX on detachment to Nellis Air Force Base for test work. Jamie Hunter The two F-15 variants have some different hardware configurations, but weve been very deliberate within the USAF to align these platforms to the max extent possible. The F-15E and F-15EX share the same Advanced Display Core Processor (ADCP II) central computer. They also have the same AN/APG-82 radar, they use the same targeting pods, the same Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System [EPAWSS] electronic warfare system. So, if they have common hardware as much as possible, they should have common software. Theres some hardware elements that we cant align, such as the large area display [LAD] in the F-15EX cockpit and the older display layout in the F-15E. So how we display symbology and user interface experiences will be different between the two platforms, but other than that, when it comes to inherent capabilities on the platforms, we try to align that with a common OFP as much as we can. The idea here is that if we fly a developmental test event that works on an E-model, our program offices and developers can potentially make it count for an EX as well. The same goes for operational tests. We are finding ways to become as efficient as possible. The massive Large Area Display in the F-15EX cockpit. Jamie Hunter/Screengrab Having the common OFP between the F-15E and the F-15EX is great for me as a pilot. Yesterday I was flying an EX, and I flew an E-model the day before. The HOTAS switches are all the same. The functionality is all the same. The sensors are all the same. Across the USAF we are pushing our fighters towards a more agile framework from a software development perspective. Instead of rolling out software builds once a year with multi-year acquisition lifecycles for software for the platforms, were reducing that to months and in some cases engineering builds that are weeks, depending on the scope and scale of the update, with goals for a release every year for major upgrades. The aim is that if we need to fix something or field a new capability, it doesnt take years, it takes months or weeks. The F-15 was able to field its first agile framework-developed software very quickly and were already on the second software build post-OFP 9.2. The new LAD in both the front and back cockpits of the F-15EX is a major evolution for the Eagle. It unlocks the capability of integrating with a platform that Ive just never had before, Waller says. We seamlessly execute touchscreen operations in everyday life, phones and iPads for example, and now its taking the jet to a whole new capability. A modern user interface really does change how you use the airplane, it almost feels like the opportunities are endless because Ive grown up with push buttons and HOTAS [Hands-On Throttle And Stick controls]. The integration with the LAD is different with things like the touch screen. It lets me make bigger screens, smaller screens, rearrange my screens, put what used to be on the left now in the middle or on the right. It unlocks degrees of freedom that I never knew existed, and it has exponential growth and capability from a human-machine interfacing perspective. Now we get to leverage experience from other platforms that have developed that, like the F-35, and the idea is to learn from them, but our operational needs, our strategic needs, may be different, so now we have different things we can do with it. Maintainers load an F-15EX with AIM-120 AMRAAMs at Eglin Air Force Base. Jamie Hunter When I think back to when I first flew the F-15C, we had the Vertical Situation Display in the cockpit for our radar and a radar warning receiver. We moved into multifunction displays and push buttons in the F-15E, and now with the F-15EX its touchscreen and we have a whole new technology development line of activity. Theres been a lot of experimentation with the LAD by experienced F-15 pilots like me, and its been a deliberate approach to executing the developmental testing. The F-15EX CTF is actively working to evaluate potential modernization solutions for the cockpit, such as work being done by the Air Force Research Laboratory and other science and technology developers, although no specific improvements that might be desired for the LAD have yet to be revealed. This F-15EX pilot is wearing the Digital Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System. Jamie Hunter There are other improvements in the F-15EX cockpit too. Unlike the F-15E, where the aircraft is only equipped for the pilot to wear a Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS), both the pilot and Weapon System Operator (WSO) in the F-15EX can wear a helmet mounted display in the form of the new Digital Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System (DJHMCS). This means that the front and back seat crew can both see targeting data and other info, such as the location of other contacts in augmented reality via their helmet visor, as well as being able to use symbology to get each others eyes onto a target or item of interest. DJHMCS is literally a hardware swap out with the same user interface [as JHMCS]. Theyve shifted some of the weight associated with the helmet mounted display to the back of the helmet so that its balance is better on your neck. Its a different piece of hardware, but it integrates to the platform in the same way and provides us the same capability [as JHMCS]. The USAF has executed a highly accelerated test program for the F-15EX, geared towards minimizing the transition burden from the F-15C/D to the new Eagle II. This meant that the first operational unit, the 142nd Wing, Oregon Air National Guard in Portland, was ready to begin its transition to the F-15EX under an accelerated service entry plan with the first example arriving at its Portland base on June 6, 2024. Editors note: The sponsor had no editorial involvement in this article. Contact the editor: tyler@twz.com

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A 19-year-old business student at the University of Southern California who was arrested on suspicion of murder in the fatal stabbing of a burglary suspect on USCs Greek Row in Los Angeles Monday night has been identified.

The incident was reported around 8:15 p.m. in the 700 block of West 28th Street in the University Park neighborhood.

Arriving officers found an unidentified man suffering from stab wounds in an alleyway. He was later pronounced dead at the scene, officials with the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed.

Authorities say the Boyle Heights native, who is now in custody, and two friends witnessed the 27-year-old homeless man burglarizing cars. The 19-year-old reportedly confronted the man with a knife before stabbing him to death.

USC student arrested for fatal stabbing on Greek row

Gallegos, who has no criminal record and stayed at the scene to cooperate with law enforcement, told police he was acting in self-defense and that the 27-year-old burglary suspect said he was armed with a gun.

The 19-year-olds friends who were with him at the time have not been arrested.

A housekeeper at the students Delta Tau Delta Fraternity said everyone in the house is very concerned about what happened.

Theyre upset, sad and worried, she told KTLAs Omar Lewis. Its very tragic for both families.

Some residents on Greek Row say theyre already on edge from previous incidents involving property crimes there and because the back alley where the stabbing occurred is near a homeless encampment.

Fatal stabbing on USC's Greek Row

When a lot of this stuff occurs repetitively, you have a lot more students who want to be proactive, Greek Row resident Liam Shi told KTLA. I dont even know what I wouldve done in that situation.

Another student, a property manager on Greek Row just two doors down from Delta Tau Delta, told KTLA that her building has been broken into and that this incident has left students confused and asking questions.

Someone lost a life yesterday, so I feel horrible that happened, the student, identified only as Allison, said. At the same time, Im a student myself. Im a woman. I think of all of us being students, anybody really, youre in a vulnerable position. What are you supposed to do, wait until the gun gets pulled out in front of you?

As for Gallegos, who is being held on $2 million bail, he now faces an uncertain future.

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.
U.S. Deputy Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services Stacy Dean will become the inaugural executive director of the Global Food Institute at George Washington University. Photo courtesy of George Washington University Global Food Institute

June 19 (UPI) -- U.S. Deputy Under Secretary of Agriculture for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services Stacy Dean will become the inaugural executive director of the Global Food Institute at George Washington University.

The position at the private university in Washington is also backed by celebrity chef, author and advocate Jose Andres and was confirmed publicly Thursday.

Andres co-founded the GFI, which is "dedicated to leveraging interdisciplinary research and teaching across the pillars of policy, innovation, and humanity to address global food challenges."

Dean was named deputy under secretary in 2021 and has led the department's food and nutrition policy and programs. During her time there, she "published frequent reports on how federal nutrition programs affect families and communities and developed policies to improve them," according to department biography.

Overall, Dean has spent 30 years as a policymaker in the food sciences world. The University of Michigan graduate will be tasked with championing the institute's mission to change the world through the power of food.

The position at the private university in Washington, D.C. is also backed by celebrity chef, author and advocate Jose Andres. File Photo by Gabriele Holtermann/UPI

"I am honored to join the Global Food Institute at this critical moment," Dean said in a statement issued Thursday.

"Together, we will pave the way for innovative solutions to food insecurity, malnutrition, climate change, and the myriad global challenges we face. Our collective efforts will turn our aspirations for a more equitable and sustainable food system into reality."

Celebrity chef Jose Andres (R) walks with Sen. Peter Welch, D-VT, after meeting with a group of Senate Democrats at the U.S. Capitol in March after Democrats nominated Andres for a Nobel Peace Prize. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack applauded Dean for her accomplishments with the Department of Agriculture

"Under the leadership of Stacy Dean, USDA's Food and Nutrition Service has been innovative and forward-looking in their efforts to enhance nutrition security and put healthy food on dinner tables and in school lunchrooms across the country, resulting in some of the most significant milestones in the food and nutrition space in decades," Visack said in the GFI statement.

"American families are better off thanks to Stacy's work, and will continue to be in her new role."

Andres years ago joined the global fight against food insecurity across the world and has made it his life's work. The 54-year-old native of Spain in 2010 founded the nonprofit World Central Kitchen, which has responded to numerous natural disasters including Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

In March, Andres testified in front of a group of Senators during a Capitol Hill briefing about getting food aid into Gaza, Haiti and Ukraine.

The session focused on WCK's global work to get food into areas where systems are disrupted by war and natural disasters.

"The enormity of challenges before our global food system demands a passionate leader of Stacy's caliber, with a profound understanding of the issues and the drive to effect change," Andres said in the Thursday statement.

"I'm thrilled to work with her (Dean) as we usher in a new era of impact for the institute."
We recently compiled a list of the 10 Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy Now. Since The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM) is part of the list, we have discussed the stock in detail.

The Global Alcohol Industry:

In 2019, the global alcohol consumption, measured in liters of pure alcohol per person of 15 years of age or older, was 5.5 liters, which is a 4.7% relative decrease from 5.7 liters in 2010. As we mentioned in our article  20 Most Consumed Alcohols in the World  the global alcoholic beverages market size was valued at $1.62 trillion in 2021 and is projected to reach $2 trillion by 2031, with a CAGR of 2.2% during the forecast period.

The market is likely to be driven by the increasing global young-adult demographic, coupled with high disposable income and consumer demand for premium/super-premium products. Globally, beer drives the market for alcoholic beverages. Regionally, North America and Asia-Pacific are expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

Resilience of the Beverage Alcohol Industry:

As reported by Forbes, an analysis by Goldman Sachs has revealed that beer and spirits volumes in the American market have shown little correlation with economic growth. Their sales are more related to the general trends of alcohol consumption per capita rather than the general state of the economy. This is because beer and spirits are often seen as affordable luxuries or even staples.

Similarly, a Cambridge University study focused on business cycles and alcohol consumption across 24 countries over more than 50 years also found no symmetric reduction in beer and spirits consumption during recessions. The decreasing levels of average per capita income lead to very small changes in gross alcohol, wine, and beer consumption. In fact, the surge in unemployment during recessions could instead trigger an increase in the average alcohol intake. Moreover, it was also revealed that those who enjoy drinking tend to drink a lot more during the good times.

However, during times of economic difficulty, consumers tend to drink more at home as it is cheaper than hitting the bars. So while on-premise businesses suffer a decline in sales, liquor stores and online alcohol retailers tend to profit heavily.

Americans drank more alcohol also during the pandemic and this was reflected in the resultant imposts collected by the national kitty. Alcohol tax revenues collected by the U.S. Treasury Department rose by 8% in the fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, 2021, compared to the previous year, and remained well above pre-pandemic levels.

Story continues

Alcohol As a Lucrative Investment Asset:

Rare whiskeys are incredible as investment vehicles. Aptly named Liquid Gold, this beloved liquor can preserve and even increase in value during economic instabilities, inflationary periods, and recessions. One simply cannot forget about the bottle of The Macallan 1926 Valerio Adami that sold in auction for $2.7 million in November 2023, or the 1975 cask of Ardbeg single malt which was acquired by a private collector in Asia in 2022 for over $20 million, more than double the amount Glenmorangie paid for the entire Ardbeg distillery and all its stock in 1997.

The Rare Whisky 101 Apex 1000 Index tracks whiskeys that are highly sought after for collection. It has gained over 383% since 2013, against 286% gains by S&Ps famous benchmark of the top 500 companies for the same period. The RW Japanese 100 Index, on the other hand, includes 100 collector's bottles from Japan, and since 2015, the index has seen gains of more than 396%. The index includes bottles like Ichiro's Malt 'Card' Ace of Spades, Ace of Diamonds, and King of Hearts, among others.

Similarly, if we enter the realm of rare wines, the Liv-ex Burgundy 150 Index tracks the ten most recently physical vintages for 15 white and red Burgundy, including six Domaine Romanee Conti labels. The index has gained over 102% over the last five years, against around 88% gains made by the broader market during the same period.

The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM): Best Beer Stock to Buy Now?

Photo by Wil Stewart on Unsplash

Methodology:

To collect data for this article, we scanned Insider Monkeys database of 920 hedge funds and picked the top 10 companies operating in the alcohol sector with the highest number of hedge fund investors. When two companies had the same number of hedge funds investing in them, we ranked them by the revenue of their last financial year instead. Following are the Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds:

7. The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 22

Next up in our list of the Top Alcohol Stocks is The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM), one of the largest American-owned brewing companies, best known for its line of all-malt beers under the brand name Samuel Adams. The company reported a revenue of approximately $426 million in Q1 2024, an increase of 3.9% from the previous year. It also earned a net profit of $12.6 million versus a net loss of $8.96 million the year before.

One of TBBCs core brands, Twisted Tea, posted strong growth with dollar sales up 21% in Q1 while growing share by 1.4 points in measured channels. However, the company reported declines in its Truly hard seltzer brand, which is now a smaller part of its business mix but maintains a 20% share of hard seltzer in measure channels.

SouthernSun Asset Management LLC stated the following about SAM in its Q1 investment letter:

In the near term, we believe the company will remain focused on sustaining Twisted Teas growth, turning Truly volume trends, improving operations to enhance gross margins, and thus providing more funds to invest in its core assets as a company  its brands and its sales force. Overall, we remain confident managements efforts and investments are likely to produce profitable growth that will reward investors over time.

The share price of SAM jumped by over 22% on May 31st after a Wall Street Journal report that the beer maker is in talks to be sold to the Jim Beam-owner Suntory Holdings. However, the Japanese alcohol giant released a statement the very next day that it is not in talks to purchase The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM).

Among the 22 hedge fund holders of SAM in Q1 2024, Marshall Wace LLP held the largest stake of 137,515 shares, valued at $41.86 million.

Overall, SAM ranks 7th on our list of the best alcohol stocks to buy. You can visit 10 Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy to see other alcohol stocks that are on hedge funds' radar. While we acknowledge the potential of SAM as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than SAM but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: Analyst Sees a New $25 Billion "Opportunity" for NVIDIA and Jim Cramer is Recommending These 10 Stocks in June.

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Antonio Macias' mother cries over her son's body covered with the Israeli flag at Pardes Haim cemetery in Kfar Saba, near Tel Aviv, Israel, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023. Macias was killed by Hamas militants while attending a music festival in southern Israel. | Francisco Seco

The lawmakers and others gathered to watch the raw footage of the Hamas attacks on Israelis on Oct. 7 were there to be witnesses of the tragedy so they could push back against false narratives about the attacks, former South Carolina state lawmaker Alan Clemmons said at a screening at the Utah State Capitol on Tuesday.

Clemmons, who is now a judge in South Carolina, was instrumental in bringing the footage to Utah alongside state Senate President Stuart Adams.

About 80 people were present to watch the screening, including state lawmakers, local Jewish leaders and journalists. The movie included footage from body cameras worn by Hamas operatives, dashboard cameras, CCTV footage from the site of the Nova Music Festival and several of the kibbutzes that were attacked, and images shared by Hamas on social media. Everyone who viewed the footage had to sign an agreement not to film or photograph the footage in order to protect the victims.

The more than 40-minutes of footage compiled by the Israel Defense Forces was difficult to watch and listen to, with images of brutal violence and killing, accompanied by the sound of children and adults crying out in fear. The footage also included Hamas militants rejoicing over the carnage.

More than 300 Hamas operatives invaded Israel by land, sea and air on Oct. 7, killing more than 1,200 people, including 45 Americans. Another 239 people were kidnapped that day, with about 120 still held as hostages. It was the worlds deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust.

Hamas invasion of Israel, with all of its brutality, including sexual violence, launched a war that is still raging after eight months. Many Palestinians in Gaza have been displaced because of the conflict, as Hamas continues to hide operatives and military equipment alongside the civilian population. Israels counter-offensive has led to the deaths of thousands of Hamas terrorists in Gaza, as well as civilians. There is currently no independent verification of casualties.

Throughout the war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said there is no victory without the complete destruction of Hamas.

Rabbi Avremi Zippel, the grandson of a Holocaust survivor, attended the screening Tuesday. He said he had read accounts of the atrocities committed on Oct. 7, but nothing prepares you for what you see on that film.

Watching the footage, Rabbi Zippel said he was waiting for the humanity to kick in, but it doesnt happen.

He said he doesnt see the war as one between Muslims and Jews, saying watching the footage did not leave him with bad feelings against those who follow Islam. Most people want peace, he said, including those in the Middle East. Rather, he said, this is an existential battle between good and evil.

I wasnt ready for the exulting and the joy and the happiness on the faces of some of those people, he said of the footage.

On the growing antisemitism in the United States, Rabbi Zippel said he was struck by the headband many of the Hamas militants wore, which is also worn by some of the campus protesters in the U.S., although not those in Utah. We really have been lucky here in Salt Lake City, he said.

Adams spoke before and after the screening, encouraging those present to stand with Israel in its fight against Hamas and to stand with those who are fighting for freedom across the world.

There is an element in the world I dont think we understand, he said, adding that the hostages cannot be left in the hands of Hamas.

An Israel Air Force major who was tasked with bringing the footage to Utah gave a short briefing before the film and spoke after. He asked that his name not be shared.

The major showed maps of the area, demonstrating the short distance between Gazans and Israelis. He also shared a map of the Middle East, showing the many countries who want peace in the region, compared with those who he said are instruments of Iran, which has been fighting a proxy war against Israel and Western democracies for years, he said.

Hamas has said they would launch attacks similar to the attack on Oct. 7 again and again if they could, the major said.

The footage has been shown to many federal and state lawmakers, including President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, he said.

When asked why it was important for people to see the atrocities that occurred on Oct. 7, he asked, why is it important for people to see the Holocaust, for people to understand this can happen?

People said never again, but never again happened again, he said.
Yanet Alcaraz holds her son Nathan, 7, as he is tested for COVID-19 by the Salt Lake County Health Department in the parking lot of the Maverik Center in West Valley City on Sunday, Aug. 23, 2020. | Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News

Sen. Mitt Romney called for an end to funding gain of function research during a contentious Senate hearing Tuesday on the origins of COVID-19, saying no one will every know with certainty whether the virus responsible for millions of deaths was created in a Chinese lab or emerged from a market selling live animals.

We know what action we ought to take to protect from either. So why theres so much passion around it makes me think its more political than scientific but maybe Im wrong, the Utah Republican said during his questioning of the expert witnesses appearing before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee.

Romney said he wants China to take responsibility for COVID-19.

Whether it was from a wet market or the Wuhan lab, China is to blame. Both those things were in China. So if were looking for someone to blame, we know who it is. Its the Chinese, and they should take responsibility for it and should have opened themselves up to complete disclosure, he said.

Whats not as clear, Romney suggested, is whats fueling the continued debate over the origin of the virus.

Theres a lot of energy and passion around, was it from an animal or was it a lab leak. And I must admit, I dont understand why theres so much energy around that. It strikes me that well never be 100% sure, I presume, about one or the other. he said, adding, well always be a little uncertain.

The action Romney wants Congress to take is putting an end to funding for whats known as gain of function research, sometimes described as supercharging viruses and other pathogens, making them more dangerous. He said there appears to be no particular reason for it other than military warfare. We shouldnt do that anyway.

Labs that receive funding for research should also have to follow international standards, Romney said, as well as a clean up of wet markets where live, wild animals such as raccoon dogs and badgers are sold and slaughtered for food or medicine.

The response to Romneys assessment underscored the split evident at the hearing, which included sharp rebukes directed at one of the witnesses. Robert Garry, an author of a controversial paper that concluded early in the pandemic that the virus did not come from a lab.

Garry, a Tulane University School of Medicine professor and associate dean, told Romney that depending on how gain of function research is defined, youre going to really cripple the biomedical research enterprise on viruses, cancers and other health issues.

So lets get that right. I dont think, just blanket we should stop funding all gain of function research because some of that is important, like for developing animal models of new diseases as they come forth. Garry said, limiting the response to any new threats.

But Richard Ebright, a Rutgers University professor and laboratory director whod said earlier in the hearing there was zero evidence that COVID-19 occurred naturally, said the definition of the term is not at issue. Ebright said the intensity Romney referred to is coming from those involved in gain of function research who dont want federal oversight.

Only after there is an acknowledgement that there is a very real possibility  not a remote possibility, but a very real possibility  of a lab origin will there be the political will to impose regulation on this scientific community that has successfully resisted and obstructed regulation for two decades, Ebright said.

Another scientist offered told Romney it comes down to money.

I think the energy is around the fact that paychecks, salaries, careers, are based on continuing gain of function research by some of the most vocal people in this debate, said Dr. Steven Quay, a former faculty member of the Stanford University School of Medicine. I think if you follow the money, youll see the answer.
(Bloomberg) -- The election-driven slump in French bonds will create a buying opportunity if spreads continue to widen, according to the head of investment strategy at the worlds second-biggest money manager.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The selloff, which has already driven the spread between 10-year French and German debt close to the widest level in almost 12 years, could provide a good entry point to add exposure, Vanguard Group Inc.s Joe Davis said in an interview on Bloomberg Television on Wednesday.

Politics is important but other things can matter, Davis said. There are opportunities in the fixed income market if those spreads continue to widen.

Most money managers are steering clear of French bonds, saying they remain vulnerable to further losses should Marine Le Pens far-right National Rally party win the parliamentary election due to conclude on July 7. The snap poll has shined a spotlight on Frances stretched public finances, with investors worried that shoring up the deficit will become harder if President Emmanuel Macrons party loses ground in parliament.

France and Italy were reprimanded by the European Union on Wednesday for running big deficits, the first stage in a confrontation that will test the blocs resolve and could in theory prompt billions of euros in fines.

Last week the spread between 10-year French and German debt jumped the most since 1990, when Bloomberg started compiling the data. Its currently hovering close to 80 basis points, near the widest level since 2012.

In the US and the UK over the past 50 years plus, the returns of the equity and fixed income market are the same in election and non-election years, Davis said. You have to look at the economic fundamentals, the deficit rules are going to be important.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  With the wildfires burning, its been difficult for residents and wildfire crews in Ruidoso to make calls or send text messages with no signal.

Verizon is helping by providing first responders critical communication.

Verizons Frontline Crisis Response Team. Photo courtesy to Verizon

Verizons Frontline Crisis Response Team. Photo courtesy to Verizon

Verizons Frontline Crisis Response Team. Photo courtesy to Verizon

According to the news release by the telecommunications company, Verizon has set up multiple charging stations to at least four Red Cross shelters in the area.

Public safety officials are working with Verizons Frontline Crisis Response Team to deploy temporarily cell sites at both areas with the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire, Verizon said.

In addition to the charging stations, Verizon said they have also provided the following network connectivity equipment:

Verizon Rapid Response Connectivity Unit (RRCU) Set in Lincoln County Emergency Operations Command to provide connectivity up to 120 active users.

Verizon Cell on Light Truck (COLT) Set in the U.S. Forest Services in the Smokey Bear Ranger District, is a mobile cell site in events of disaster.

2 Verizon Satellite Picocell On a Trailer (SPOT) Set in the fire command center in Ruidoso and the Sierra Blanc Regional Airport, is a mobile cell site to provide connectivity via satellite signals.



Verizon said they have a fleet of over 550 mobile assets ready to deliver essential services such as communications between the public safety agencies and first responders.

In 2023, The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team has responded to over 200 requests for wildfires nationwide, Verizon said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated the town the members represent. They both represent Bennington, Vt.

Vermont state Rep. Mary Morrissey (R) publicly apologized Monday for her disrespectful conduct toward a Democratic colleague after reports suggested she was responsible for repeatedly pouring water into state Rep. Jim Carrolls tote bag over the course of five months.

I am truly ashamed for my actions, Morrissey said in remarks on the floor of the statehouse on Monday. I have given my sincere apology to Jim directly and publicly and will be working towards resolution and restoration through our legislative process.

It was conduct most unbecoming of my position as a representative and as a human being and is not reflective of my 28 years of service and civility that I do value towards my colleagues, she continued.

I hope Jim, my legislative colleagues, all of our statehouse staff and those who work in this building, and the citizens of Vermont can forgive me for my poor judgment and actions and allow me to take the necessary steps to repair what I have done, she said.

Morrisseys apology comes after Carroll, for five months, would repeatedly find his tote bag, which he reportedly carries between legislative meetings, drenched in water without any indication of what caused it.

Carroll told local media that he eventually placed a small camera near a committee coatroom to determine the cause of the wetness. In the footage, Carroll is seen checking his tote bag for wetness before a woman  who reportedly was identified by colleagues as Morrissey  follows closely behind and pours water into the bag.

In his response to Morrisseys apology on Monday, Carroll described those five months as torment.

To Representative Morrissey, I hear the sincerity in your voice and I got to be quite frank with you, and the body and our constituents and the people of Vermont, he said. For five months, I went through this, and each time  each day that I went through this  Representative Morrissey had a choice to make. And each time that she didnt choose to either drop it or to come to me and say, Look Im sorry, we screwed up. Lets put our heads together and try to serve our constituents the way they ought to be, and for that, Im really sorry and sad that that happened.'

But frankly, you know, after five months of that  and it was, it was torment, theres no doubt about it, with me anyway  theres going to be some work to be done between the two of us and that first time that we sit down together, its going to be kind of awkward, but we have to start somewhere, so thank you, Carroll said.

Carroll and Morrissey both represent Bennington, Vt.

Local media outlets obtained two videos that Carroll captured on the hidden camera after receiving numerous requests. Carroll said, according to local reports, he wanted to make clear that he was releasing the videos reluctantly, saying in a statement last week, I did everything I could to keep this quiet, and within 24 hours it was out.

Over the past several weeks, I have been contacted by multiple members of the media requesting that I disclose video of inappropriate behavior directed at me by Representative Mary Morrissey. I have been very reluctant to disclose the video because I believe it will deeply embarrass Representative Morrissey, Carroll said to local media at the time.

However, it has become clear to me that the media are aware of the details of Representative Morrisseys behavior, and likely will continue to report on that behavior in the near future, he added, saying he thought continued withholding of the video would not only subject me to more amplified media criticism, litigation and continued warnings of more litigation to follow. Additionally, as there is already a story in the news, I believe it is only right that I release the video to be fully transparent to my constituents and all Vermonters.

The Hill has reached out to Carrolls office for the videos and further comment and to Morrisseys office for comment.

This story was updated at 10:28 p.m.

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.
Republican Vermont state Representative Mary Morrissey apologized to Democrat Jim Carroll this week for a pretty bizarre reason: She was recently caught on video pouring water into her Democratic colleagues bag, and has apparently been doing so for months.



The incident was first reported by Vermont independent weekly Seven Days. Morrissey said during a state house session Monday that her behavior was disrespectful and that she had given a private apology to Carroll, adding that she would work toward resolution and restoration through our legislative process. The two represent the city of Bennington in Vermont, and reportedly have known each other since childhood, even attending the same church.

It was conduct most unbecoming of my position as a representative and as a human being, and is not reflective of my 28 years of service and civility, Morrissey said, asking for forgiveness from her colleagues and Vermont citizens.

According to Carroll, Morrissey had been treating him badly in public as well. [She] would say demeaning things in front of other legislators, Carroll said. Water had been poured into his bag since January, so he set up a camera in the coat rack outside his committee room. Carrolls videos show someone lawmakers later identified as Morrissey dumping a cup into Carrolls bag.

According to Carroll, Morrissey said that at first she flicked water on the bag because she saw a bug on it. But later, she said she didnt know why she decided to dump water on Carrolls bag for months on end.

Seven Days got ahold of the footage from Carroll due to a public records request. I have been very reluctant to disclose the video because I believe it will deeply embarrass Representative Morrissey, Carroll wrote in a statement to the outlet. However, it has become clear to me that the media are aware of the details of Representative Morrisseys behavior and likely will continue to report on that behavior in the near future.

Republicans dont seem to be conducting themselves well in local politics. In May, a local moderate Republican councilman in central New Jersey was arrested after he was caught in a sting operation stealing political signs promoting rival MAGA-aligned conservatives. In that case, AirTags were pinned to the signs to apprehend the culprit.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  The ex-boyfriend of a woman who was shot in a drive-by shooting is now facing charges of attempted murder and domestic battery, according to his arrest report.

Tony Carriedo, 36, was taken into custody at a liquor store on June 13 for the June 2 afternoon shooting in a neighborhood on Cinderella Lane near Sahara Avenue and Arville Street.

Las Vegas Metro police became involved in the case when the woman showed up at a local emergency room with a gunshot wound to her right thigh and told officers she was walking to a friends home when she was shot. She said a passerby came to her aid and dropped her off at the hospital, court documents said.

After speaking with witnesses, the report said police learned the story was not truthful and talked with the victim again where she admitted the shooter was her ex-boyfriend, Tony Carriedo, who was very jealous.

Tony Carriedos booking photo. (LVMPD)

The victim also told police of a previous incident where Carriedo allegedly punched her in the face and stabbed her in the forearm while she was trying to protect herself from getting stabbed in the chest or face, the documents stated.

The two reunited on the night before the shooting and were at a party when the victim wanted to leave and Carriedo was unwilling to go, the report said. The victim said she left the party and was walking along Cinderella Lane to a friends house when she saw Carriedo driving toward her and then she said she heard a pow and dropped to the ground in pain.

The victim said she saw Carriedo do a U-turn and drive back toward her and she was scared he was going to finish her off but instead dropped her off at an emergency room, documents stated.

According to the arrest report, among other evidence, police located surveillance video showing Carriedo driving his car to the hospital, and dropping the victim off at the doors.

Cerriedo is facing one count of attempted murder with the use of a deadly weapon and two counts of, domestic battery with the use of a deadly weapon resulting in substantial bodily harm. One of the counts is for the alleged stabbing incident that occurred earlier in the year.

Police said Cerriedo was convicted of three felony charges out of California but no details on those charges were in the report.

He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on July 2.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
SALEM, Va. (WFXR)  The main focus of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, a national 50th anniversary commemoration is to thank and honor Vietnam veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice.

In the first half of the year, VFW Post 10840 and American Legion Post 111 of Rocky Mount held a ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park in Rocky Mount. Also, the Vietnam Veterans Association in Roanoke held an event at American Legion Post 3 in Salem.

More Veterans Voices stories on WFXRtv.com

Actually, the recognition when it first came out I was very honored that somebody finally would think about us a little bit so enough to where they would realize the need they had to do this type of celebration when I came back to this country after leaving the military in June 1974 It was not a warm welcome, and actually people dont understand it. We are not only somewhat discriminated because we had participated in a war that people didnt think we won, but the other aspect of that was we were discriminated in employment and some other areas too because we were Vietnam veterans so not to mention. If you were in African-American, you had to come back to the same old you might say Play racism that we left when we went into war in the first place, said Vietnam War and U.S. Air Force Veteran Andre Peery.

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 WFXRtv.
SAN FRANCISCO (KRON)  San Francisco police are investigating a shooting that occurred in the Portola neighborhood Tuesday evening after a victim was reportedly robbed by two suspects.

San Francisco Police Department officers responded at 5:52 p.m. to the 700 block of Sweeny Street on a report of a shooting. Police located a victim with an apparent gunshot wound, SFPD said. Paramedics were summoned to the scene and transported the victim to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Minor seriously injured in shooting near Church and Market in SF

During the preliminary investigation, officers learned that the victim was approached by two unknown suspects who robbed the victim of his property and subsequently shot at the victim prior to fleeing the scene, SFPD said.

The case remains open and active and no arrests have been made as of Tuesday evening. Anyone with information is asked to contact the San Francisco Police Department at (415)-575-4444 or text at tip to TIP411 and begin the message with SFPD.

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.
HANOI (Reuters) - The party chief of Vietnam's capital city Hanoi, Dinh Tien Dung, has resigned, the government said on Wednesday, marking the latest top official to exit as the ruling Communist Party carries out a major reshuffle.

Dung, 63, a former finance minister, was found by the party to be responsible for violations committed at the finance ministry during the 2016-2021 period, the government said in a statement.

Dung is a member of the Politburo, the most powerful decision-making body in the Southeast Asian country.

It was not clear whether Dung would be removed from the Politburo, which has seen six of its members leaving since late 2022 amid an intensified anti-graft crackdown and a major leadership reshuffle.

The government statement said the ministry of finance, in its 2016-2021 term, failed to properly manage the issuance and trade of some corporate bonds, while some ministry officials broke party rules.

"The violations and shortcomings of the ministry for the 2016-2021 term have caused serious and irreparable consequences, leading to significant losses to the state budget and hurting bond investors," the statement said.

The government said the Politburo had agreed to let Dung step down.

(Reporting by Khanh Vu; Editing by Ed Davies)
Christopher Stroup says his six figure income hasn't made him feel "rich" because he's struggling to meet his savings goals related to buying a home and starting a family. Christopher Stroup

A California-based millennial earning six figures says he'd need to triple his income to feel "rich."

High home prices, the costs of surrogacy, and student debt have made his income feel insufficient.

He shared why he's hesitant to leave Santa Monica despite its expensive housing market.

If Christopher Stroup's only priority was maximizing his savings, he might not be living in the Los Angeles area.

The 33-year-old financial advisor, who's based in Santa Monica, California, made roughly $130,000 last year, according to a document viewed by Business Insider. However, he said he's still paying off his student debt and working toward his savings goals for a down payment on a home, starting a family, and retirement. That's why he feels far from "rich," he said.

"Versus the traditional arc of life, I feel behind financially," he previously told BI via email.

To feel "rich," Stroup estimated that he'd need an annual income of about $400,000 to $500,000 a year  more than triple his 2023 earnings. At this income level, he estimated that he'd be able to meet his savings goals, enjoy life, and have some extra money left over.

If he can't boost his income to his desired level, Stroup said there's another thing that might help him feel rich: moving to an area with lower housing costs.

"I rent a 450-square-foot alcove studio in Santa Monica for $1,650 a month," Stroup previously told BI. "My sister, who lives in Cincinnati, rents a 1,600-square-foot home with three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, and a full backyard for $1,800."

Stroup is among a group of Americans with six-figure incomes who are struggling to meet some of their financial goals. These people are sometimes called HENRYs  or high earners, not rich yet.

In recent years, as rising costs have weighed on people's finances, a $100,000-a-year salary hasn't gone as far as it used to, and the US housing market is among the top reasons. In recent years, high home prices and elevated mortgage rates have made homeownership unaffordable for many Americans. Business Insider has interviewed several Americans who have moved to different states in recent years in search of lower rents or mortgage payments.

As of 2022, a majority of millennials owned a home, according to an analysis published in 2023 by the apartment listing service RentCafe. But that offers little solace to millennials like Stroup, who are now faced with a more expensive housing market. Of course, for the majority of Americans who don't have a $100,000 income  the average annual full-time salary was about $84,000 as of March  affording a home is even more of a challenge.

Story continues

Stroup shared whether he plans to move somewhere with lower housing costs, especially as he considers having a family, which could be particularly expensive for him.

Starting a family can be as expensive as a down payment on a home

Stroup said he sometimes jokes that he'd need to save $250,000 to buy a home, start a family, or become a partner at his firm  but he can pick only one.

The median sale price for a Santa Monica home was about $1.5 million as of April, per Zillow. A 17% down payment on a home of this cost would be roughly $250,000.

Additionally, Stroup, who's gay, said that family planning as a gay couple can be "extremely expensive" if surrogacy is opted for over adoption. He said the total costs of surrogacy can be well over six figures.

"These are the costs I could expect if I only wanted to have one child," he said. "In reality, I'd love to have at least two children, which means that serious financial planning needs to be considered."

And those are just the initial costs. In January, Business Insider estimated that it would cost parents about $26,000 to care for a small child in 2024.

Lastly, Stroup said the "buy-in" for partners at his firm begins at $250,000, which means he would have to pay this to "own a slice" of the firm where he works.

With all these expenses to consider, it might make sense for Stroup to move somewhere with lower housing costs. But he said there's at least one key reason he doesn't want to leave the Los Angeles area just yet: it has a strong LGBTQ+ community.

Stroup said he gained insight into the tradeoff between living expenses and community when he lived in Bakersfield, California for a few years.

"The cost of living in Bakersfield is substantially lower than Los Angeles, which did allow me to save and pay down debt," he said. "However, it wasn't really a welcoming environment as a gay man, and it meant sacrificing my personal life."

If Stroup were to move, he would have a lot of options because his job allows him to work fully remotely. He grew up in Troy, Pennsylvania, and he said he'd consider moving back there someday to be closer to family.

"Financially, the costs of housing and raising a family would be a lot lower there," Stroup said. "It would also allow me to lean more on my family, which would be a nice benefit while raising children."

For now, Stroup said he's grateful that he feels "wealthy" in three areas of his life that aren't tied to his bank account: freedom, control, and fulfillment.

He said his job allows him to have a significant amount of freedom and control over his day-to-day life, and that his work, which includes helping members of the LGBTQ+ community with wealth management, brings him "immense fulfillment."

"I currently check these three boxes, even if my income isn't at a point where I'd be considered 'wealthy' from a dollars and cents point of view," he said.

Are you making over $100,000 a year? Are you willing to share your story and the impact this income has had on your life? If so, contact this reporter at jzinkula@businessinsider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Vietnam prepares for Putin's visit after his meeting with Kim Jong Un

Vietnam is gearing up to host the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who flies into Hanoi on Wednesday evening after meeting Kim Jong Un in North Korea.

Putin is visiting the Vietnam capital at the invitation of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong.

On Thursday, the Russian leader will take part in a welcome ceremony at the Presidential Palace, before engaging in bilateral talks with Communist Party chief Trong. He will also meet Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Vietnamese who studied in Russia. Putin will also attend a state banquet.

Having been isolated on the international stage, Putin is seeking to shore up support from Russias remaining allies. It remains unclear exactly how Vietnam hopes to gain from hosting a visit from Putin, who remains under an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes against Ukraine.

Commentators suggest Putins brief tour of Vietnam and North Korea is of practical as well as symbolic importance.

Putins trip to Vietnam will reinvigorate their comprehensive strategic partnership and shore up economic relations through trade and investment commitments by adopting a rouble-ong currency exchange mechanism for goods and services payments, said Carl Thayer, emeritus professor of politics at the University of New South Wales in Australia and a Vietnam expert.

During his stay in Hanoi, Putin will stay at The Sofitel Metropole, a French-owned hotel. Prior to his arrival, a Russian-chartered jumbo jet shipped in limousines for Putin's use throughout his visit.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (L) welcomes Russian President Vladimir Putin upon his arrival in Pyongyang for a state visit. -/KCNA via YNA/dpa

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend a welcoming ceremony at Kim Il Sung Square. -/Kremlin/dpa
Supporters of the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program watch lawmakers from the Senate gallery. (Graham Moomaw/Virginia Mercury)

Democratic leaders in the Virginia Senate thought they could go their own way on the scheduling and policy agenda for a rare June special session. But things didnt go according to plan Tuesday as the Senate spent a whole day in Richmond without taking up a single bill.

Supporters of bills to legalize skill games and reverse recent cost-cutting measures imposed on a program that allows some military families to get tuition-free college filled a meeting room Tuesday morning to see the Senate act on the two hot-button issues that were expected to be on the agenda.

The Senate committee that was supposed to get the day rolling Tuesday morning gaveled in an hour late as senators repeatedly ducked in and out of backroom huddles. And when the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee meeting got underway, Chair Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, announced the committee wouldnt be voting on either topic after all.

When that committee meeting ended, Democrats leaders hinted they had a backup plan in the works as they headed to the Senate floor. When that plan also failed to gain traction, the Senate wrapped up its day without much of anything happening except speeches.

Im livid. Its ridiculous, said Norfolk military wife Suzanne Wheatley. I took a day out of my life, I took a day out of my childs life, to be here.

The lack of action left both issues in limbo as the Senate left town again with a vague agreement to reconvene by July 1.

Wheatley and several other people who traveled to Richmond Tuesday expressed disgust over what they saw as a round of political sniping over veteran benefits that went nowhere and gave them no clarity on what the state intends to do about the Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program, or VMSDEP.

Its a move-the-goalposts exercise, said Stafford County military veteran and advocate Caitlin Goodale-Porter.

VMSDEP waives public higher education for spouses and children of military members killed or severely disabled as a result of their service. Alarmed by a spike in the numbers of students using the benefit and the associated costs for state colleges, policymakers recently changed the rules of the program to make fewer families eligible for it.

A bipartisan budget deal approved last month imposed a stricter Virginia residency requirement, prevents the waivers from being used for advanced degrees or a second undergraduate degree and requires participants to first pursue other forms of financial aid and only use VMSDEP for remaining costs.

Though Democrats have pointed out many Republicans backed the VMSDEP changes before demanding that they be reversed, Democrats are split over whether they should go along with Gov. Glenn Youngkins call to immediately repeal the VMSDEP reforms. The inaction Tuesday gave Republicans an easier opening to argue dysfunction in the Democratic-controlled legislature was preventing a policy misstep from being fixed.

Lucas refused to docket a bill backed by the Senate Republicans and at least four Senate Democrats, numbers that couldve given the legislation enough votes to pass in a chamber where Democrats hold a slim 21-19 majority.

I stand with our military heroes, first responders, and their families today who are stunned that Senate Democrat leadership failed to even consider a simple bill, supported by a bipartisan majority of Senators, to reverse the changes to VMSDEP by fully repealing the language, and addressing this in the full light of day, Youngkin said in a statement late Tuesday afternoon. These men and women deserve so much better.

Two Democratic lawmakers  Sens. Jennifer Boysko, D-Fairfax and Suhas Subramanyam, D-Loudoun  were absent from the Capitol Tuesday as they both competed in a congressional primary election the same day. Given the lack of votes in the Senate, its unclear if their absence affected Democrats decision to not bring any bills to the floor. All 19 Republicans were present, giving the GOP equal voting strength to Democrats with Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears acting as the tie-breaker.

Both parties in the House of Delegates have expressed support for passing a complete repeal bill like the one Lucas blocked when the House returns to the Capitol on June 28.

Democratic leaders in the Senate said it was Republicans who were being intransigent by refusing to work with the majority party.

The Republican caucus wouldnt cooperate with us on any of the two solutions we proposed, Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, told reporters after the Senate finished for the day.

Lucas had filed a bill partially rolling back the VMSDEP changes by ensuring that anyone using VMSDEP to enroll in classes this fall wouldnt be impacted by the eligibility changes and exempting the families of veterans killed or wounded in combat with a 90% disability rating. Democrats have said that proposal would reduce the disruption to college plans military families say theyve experienced since the budget was passed, while also moving the program closer to its original purpose of helping families impacted by war instead of being a more open-ended benefit.

At the committee meeting, Lucas faulted the governor as she explained the decision to not take up her own bill. On Monday, Youngkins office had said the governor would not act on a skill game bill until the General Assembly had fully repealed the VMSDEP changes.

Yesterday the governor seemed to indicate that he wouldnt sign a skill game bill until after the VMSDEP changes are repealed, Lucas said. Im not going to pit constituents against each other. We care about all of you. We need solutions on both issues. And well have to continue working in both.

Lucas announced that she was creating a legislative work group to study VMSDEP and directing the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission to take a deeper look at data showing how the program is or isnt working as intended. Youngkin has already convened his own task force to study the program.

Democrats proposed another VMSDEP fix: simply delaying the effective date of the changes until Oct. 1 while the work group conducted its research. That idea went nowhere, Surovell said, because Republicans wouldnt agree to help Democrats with procedural votes to get it onto the floor Tuesday.

When questioned by reporters as she left the Capitol, Lucas didnt give a clear answer on what she would do if the House sends the Senate a VMSDEP bill like the one she blocked Tuesday.

Ill make up my mind then, she said.

In floor speeches, several Republicans senators blasted the process as fundamentally undemocratic, suggesting Lucass rule over her committee shouldnt outweigh the majority opinion of the 40-person Senate.

The bill to fully repeal the VMSDEP changes, said Sen. Glen Sturtevant, R-Chesterfield, has majority support in the Senate.

And yet despite these folks getting up early today and driving here, they didnt get to have that bill heard, he said.

Republicans could have attempted to bring the full repeal bill to the floor over Lucass objections, a little-used parliamentary move that effectively lets the full body override the wishes of a committee chair. Sen. Bryce Reeves, R-Spotsylvania, said the GOP chose not to use that nuclear option out of deference to Senate tradition. But he took exception to Lucas decision not to docket the repeal bill he co-sponsored and said hes unsure what might happen when the House sends over its version.

Im not confident of anything right now to be honest with you, Reeves said. Other than we wasted a bunch of taxpayers money coming down here with our thumbs up our butt getting nothing done.

Sen. Mamie Locke, D-Hampton, accused Republicans of politicizing the issue and taking a my way or the highway approach to the conversation.

It has become more of a political discussion than a policy discussion, Locke said.

Surovell told reporters the criticism of how Lucas is wielding her power is overstated, because committee chairs frequently have to decide to docket some bills and not others in the compressed time frame of a special session.

I dont know why it should be any different now that theres a Black woman chairing the committee, he said.

Friends of VMSDEP, the main advocacy group opposing the recent eligibility changes, blasted Lucas for her actions Tuesday. In a statement, the group said Lucas and other skill game supporters had hijacked the day to try to unleash an unprecedented expansion of gambling across the commonwealth instead of addressing the needs of veterans.

Advocates for legalizing skill games were also left wondering what the Senates decisions Tuesday meant. In a statement, the pro-skill game Virginia Merchants and Amusements Coalition said it hopes lawmakers will come together on a resolution when they reconvene.

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The post Virginia Senate returns to Richmond but fails to pass any bills appeared first on Virginia Mercury.
Two hotly contested seats in Virginias primary on Tuesday are providing insight into how much influence Donald Trump and pro-Israel lobbying groups have over our elections.

The once-mighty Trump endorsement continues to deteriorate: Trump-endorsed election denialist Senator John McGuires race to oust incumbent Republican representative Bob Good remains too close to call as of Wednesday when vote tallying paused for the Juneteenth state and federal holiday. McGuire led by just 327 votes0.52 percentover Good. In response to the razor-thin margins, Good took to social media to sprinkle a touch of election denialism of his own, asking for full transparency from the officials involved in counting and certifying votes, as if that wasnt already how the election certification process is run.

Good has courted controversy both with his efforts to oust House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and with his early endorsement of Florida governor Ron DeSantiss failed presidential campaign. Good has struggled to maintain his MAGA bona fides by demonstrating his undying love for Trump, who hes described as the best president of my lifetime. Good made an appearance in New York City outside the courthouse to support Trump in his ill-fated hush-money trial. His appearance there sparked a brutal response from Trump who declared hes BAD FOR VIRGINIA, AND BAD FOR THE USA before giving McGuire his Complete and Total Endorsement. Despite efforts from Trumpworld to bolster McGuire, the infighting has largely left Virginia voters confused.

Further complicating Virginias primaries this week, pro-Israel lobbying groups continue to dump enormous resources into Democratic races across the country, despite data consistently showing that voters are primarily concerned about the economy, not with Israel. In New York, the lobbying effort has made a primary between incumbent Representative Jamaal Bowman and MAGA-funded Westchester County Executive George Latimer the most expensive House primary in U.S. political history.

Early showings from other primaries have suggested efforts from the pro-Israel lobby are largely paying offexcept in Virginias 10th congressional district. In the crowded race with a dozen candidates, pro-Israel lobbying group Democratic Majority for Israel PAC reportedly backed Eileen Filler-Corn to replace Representative Jennifer Wexton, who is retiring. On Tuesday, Filler-Corn landed in an abysmal fourth place, picking up just 9.3 percent of the votes.

The winner of that race, Virginia senator Suhas Subramanyam, received more than 30 percent of the vote. DMFI doesnt seem too unhappy with the result, however, praising Subramanyams commitment to Democratic values and his support for a strong U.S.-Israel relationship, and describing him as a proud pro-Israel candidate.

Democrats in [Virginias 10th congressional district] have proven once again that being pro-Israel is not just wise policy, but also winning politics, the group wrote.

How all this infighting will factor into the general election remains to be seen. The main message from Virginias primaries, both Democrat and Republican, seems to be that the 2024 election season has definitely activated chaos mode.
VISALIA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  The Visalia Police Department said that as the 4th of July holiday approaches, they will be conducting special details to stop illegal fireworks.

Police say using illegal fireworks could be a $4,000 mistake you dont want to make.

Any firework that flies in the air, darts across the ground, or explodes, is considered illegal in California. If it doesnt have the California State Fire Marshal seal on the packaging, its illegal.

If you have any questions, contact the Visalia Fire Prevention Division, at 559-713-4026.

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.
Sheriff Chris Amason presents a budget during a meeting at the Cleveland County Office Building in Norman, Okla., on Monday, June 17, 2024.

NORMAN  Voters have reelected the Republican sheriff in Cleveland County elections Tuesday, along with retaining a county commissioner and deciding the county clerk.

Chris Amason defeated both of his opponents by winning 53% of the vote Tuesday, with 100% of precincts reporting. Julie Tipton, a former Cleveland County jail administrator, received 33% of the vote. Another challenger, former highway patrolman Tim Deal, came in a distant third with 14%.

I have dedicated my entire adult life to serving and protecting my fellow Oklahomans," Amason said in a statement on social media earlier Tuesday. "When I was elected almost four years ago, I promised to operate the Sheriffs Office in an honest and transparent manner  putting public safety above politics. I have kept my word, and I have been a forceful advocate against those attempting to defund public safety. You can count on me to never stop fighting to ensure you and your loved ones are protected.

The race for sheriff drew heightened attention after Amason was accused of overspending this fiscal year, compelling county commissioners and budget board members to divert millions of dollars to "bailout" his office last Monday. A state audit into Amason's office is ongoing.

In a statement Wednesday morning, Tipton said that, while Tuesdays outcome was not what she had hoped for, she was still encouraged by the passionate engagement of her supporters.

I maintain my belief that the county is in desperate need of change, Tipton said. I am hopeful that the sheriff has heard the outcry of his people throughout this campaign, will listen intently to their concerns, and work towards some solutions. I love this county and the people of the sheriffs office. I will not stop advocating for its employees and holding the sheriff accountable.

With no Democrats in the Cleveland County-specific races Tuesday, the sheriff does not have to face anyone in the November general election, which will be held Nov. 5.

The county contains the very southern edge of Oklahoma City, as well as its suburbs of Norman (the county seat) and Moore, along with the surrounding communities of Noble, Lexington, Etowah, Slaughterville, and part of Purcell.

Vote totals so far are preliminary, election board officials said. Final results are expected to be certified in the coming days. Other offices also held by Republicans in Cleveland County were decided Tuesday.

Jacob McHughes attends a meeting at the Cleveland County Office Building in Norman, Okla., on Monday, June 17, 2024.

Cleveland County District 2 Commissioner

Jacob McHughes, Republican commissioner for Cleveland County District 2, handily defeated challenger John Bowman by securing reelection with 64% of the vote.

County Clerk

Miranda Alamillo and Pam Howlett were attempting to replace County Clerk Tammy Belinson after she did not seek reelection. Howlett clinched the seat with 60% of the vote.

Court Clerk

The Cleveland County Court Clerk role saw three Republican candidates square off Tuesday: Incumbent Marilyn Williams, Cyndi Arthur and Debora Cardwell.

Williams won with 60% of the vote to Arthur's 21% and Cardwell's 19%. Williams will now face Lisa Meyer, an independent, in the general election.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Cleveland County election results: Sheriff, commissioner reelected
Voters sent some Oklahoma lawmakers packing while others wound up in runoffs

A voter chats with an election judge after casting his vote at Millwood Field House for the June 18, 2024 primary election. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Races for the statehouse on Tuesday saw some surprises.

Sen. Greg McCortney, R-Ada, lost to Republican challenger Jonathan Wingard, of Ada.

McCortney, considered to be more moderate than some of his GOP colleagues, was the Senate Majority floor leader and was slated to become the next president pro tem.

He did not immediately return a message left seeking comment.

No Democrat, Libertarian or independent filed, so Wingard will represent Senate District 13.

House Appropriations and Budget Chairman Kevin Wallace, R-Wellston, faces a runoff with Republican Jim Shaw, of Chandler, for state representative District 32. They were the top two vote getters in a three-way race.

Wallace was a key player in budget negotiations.

Sen. Cody Rogers, of Tulsa, lost to Republican challenger Aaron Reinhardt, of Jenks, in the Senate District 37 race.

Reinhardt faces independent Andrew Nutter, of Tulsa, in the general election.

Gov. Kevin Stitt recently campaigned for Rogers, telling supporters that special interest groups were out to get the incumbent, who does not always vote the way Senate leadership wants him to vote.

Rogers recently said he was the target of a smear campaign and dozens of negative mailers had been sent out against him.

Sen. Jessica Garvin, R-Duncan, lost her primary to Kendal Sacchieri, of Blanchard, in Senate District 43. Sacchieri faces a Democrat in the general election.

Garvin said she spent four years doing good work.

I am really thankful for that opportunity, she said.

Garvin was not sad about the outcome and looked forward to spending more time with her family and growing her business.

Sen. Shane Jett, R-Shawnee, narrowly avoided a runoff, winning in a four-way primary that included Ron Sharp, R-Shawnee, who Jett previously defeated.

No Democrat, Libertarian or independent filed for the post, so Jett secured reelection to Senate District 17.

Sen. Casey Murdock, R-Felt, narrowly defeated Republican challenger Cody Anderson, of Ringwood, to secure reelection to Senate District 27.

Molly Jenkins of Coyle was elected to House District 33 after defeating Rep. John Talley, R-Stillwater. No Democrat, Libertarian or independent filed for the post.

Rep. Jeff Boatman, R-Tulsa, will leave the Legislature, losing his race for Senate District 25.

In the race for House District 98, Rep. Dean Davis heads to a Aug. 27 runoff with challenger Gabe Woolley.

Both are Republicans from Broken Arrow.

The winner will face Democrat Cathy Smythe, of Broken Arrow.

Sen. Blake Cowboy Stephens will face Julie McIntosh, of Porter, in the Republican runoff. They were the top two vote getters in a three-way race for Senate District 3. The winner faces independent Margaret Cook of Tahlequah in the general election.

Stephens said he was pleased with his performance Tuesday.

Voters responded to a cowboy who will shoot you straight and has never missed a day of work, he said.

Sen. Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, secured reelection to Senate District 1 after defeating Houston Brittain of Pryor.

In the race for Senate District 11, Democrat Rep. Regina Goodwin, D-Tulsa, easily defeated Democrat Joe Williams. She will replace Sen. Kevin Matthews, D-Tulsa, who is termed out.

No independent, Libertarian or Republican candidates filed for the seat.

Emma Murphy contributed to this report.

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The post Voters sent some Oklahoma lawmakers packing while others wound up in runoffs appeared first on Oklahoma Voice.
WOODBRIDGE, Va. (DC News Now)  Voters in Virginia flocked to the polls on Tuesday for an election with key and competitive congressional races on the ballot.

Voters said hot-button issues like crime, abortion, immigration and the economy were driving them to cast their ballots in this years Virginia primary election.

I think its definitely important, especially for the younger generation, to vote, said Reece Miller, of Woodbridge.

Live Election Results: Virginia 2024 Primary Elections

Miller said he wants to believe that his vote makes a difference and that drives him to come out to cast his ballot in a primary that less people participate in, traditionally.

I think we only focus on the presidential elections but dont realize, like how important these are for like our every day life and how they all feed up to the president, he said. I feel like its definitely important to just come out and do my part.

There are many key races to watch in Northern Virginia, such as the congressional District 7 primary contests to replace outgoing Democratic U.S. Rep. Abigail Spanberger who was running for governor in 2025.

Other key congressional races are in Districts 2, 5 and 10.

5th District Congressional Primary race heats up ahead of election day

Philip Zizzo of Woodbridge voted and said people shouldnt gripe when they dont cast their ballots.

Its your right, he said. If you dont vote, you dont have a right to complain. Its just like if you dont buy a lottery ticket. Dont complain that you didnt. Youve got to be in it to win it.

Dorothy Farley of Alexandria agreed and said that theres too much at stake in every election.

Voting, I think, is very important, Farley said. It begins here and bubbles all the way up to the top elections in November.

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.
U.S. Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff addresses a crowd during a Juneteenth celebration at Raleighs Word of God Church (Photo: Rob Schofield)

Second Gentleman.

Its a unique and rather awkward official title that Doug Emhoff  the husband of the nations first woman vice president, Kamala Harris  bears, but it appeared to be one with which hes come to enjoy as he stumped in Raleigh on Tuesday for his wifes and President Bidens reelection in November.

Emhoffs seemed comfortable and at-home as he spoke to a gathering of 200 or so in the steamy back parking lot of Southeast Raleighs Word of God Church during an informal Juneteenth celebration that featured food trucks, vendors, childrens games, and performances by an elementary school chorus.

In his remarks, Emhoff pulled no punches in characterizing the fall contest with presumptive Republican Party presidential nominee, Donald Trump. Using the holiday and its celebration of freedom as a starting point, Emhoff said that everything is at stake in the fall election and that it is imperative for African Americans to help stop Trump and his MAGA allies in their tracks.

After reading a long list of what he described as Biden-Harris administration accomplishments  record low Black unemployment, a doubling of Black-owned small business starts, the appointment of the Supreme Courts first Black woman justice, the enactment of the nations first new gun safety legislation in three decades, the largest federal investment in HBCUs in U.S. history, a $35 monthly cap on insulin prescriptions, historic investments in broadband and lead pipe removal  Emhoff said all this goes away if Trump and his MAGA allies win.

In blasting what he described as Trumps nod, nod, wink, wink relationship with the white supremacy movement and its adherents, Emhoff said the plight of all Americans will be even worse that it was during Trumps first term if he is elected in the fall, and that voters have four-and-a-half months to save our democracy, save our world, and our very way of life.

Emhoff was preceded to the stage by a collection of local and national Democratic politicians.

Gov. Roy Cooper signs a Juneteenth proclamation

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper spoke in similarly urgent terms about the fall election  saying it represents critical juncture for the state and country. Before signing a Juneteenth proclamation while surrounded by a group of elementary school students of color from Wilson County, Cooper said, We celebrate freedom [of Juneteenth] today, but the fight for freedom was not over then and is not over now.

Other speakers included:

Durham state Senator Natalie Murdock, who served as the events emcee,

Wake County School Board member and Democratic Party nominee for the state House of Representatives, Monika Johnson-Hostler, who read a Juneteenth proclamation from the Wake County Board of Commissioners,

Democratic National Committee chairman Jamie Harrison, who called for the audience to fight back against evil forces and to champion hope and progress over hate and division, and

Wake County Congresswoman and former State Representative Deborah Ross, who reminded the audience of how her late former colleague, Rep. Larry Womble of Forsyth County, had long fought to establish Juneteenth as a state holiday long before it was officially recognized.

While Juneteenth is now an official federal holiday, it remains merely optional for North Carolina state government employees and is not one that the GOP leadership of the General Assembly has chosen to celebrate. A few miles northwest of todays event, business proceeded as usual during a busy day at the state Legislative Building, where several committee meetings took place and consideration of the GOP-authored state budget proposal was scheduled for a House floor debate during the afternoon.

The post VP Harriss husband Doug Emhoff, Dem officials celebrate Juneteenth at Raleigh campaign event appeared first on NC Newsline.
Wake deputy shoots man after he refuses to be evicted, sheriffs office says

A man was taken to the hospital Tuesday evening after he was shot by a Wake County Sheriffs deputy, but his condition is unknown, according to the Sheriffs Office.

The mans injuries are reported to be serious, according to ABC11, The News & Observers newsgathering partner.

The shooting happened around 5:30 p.m. following a nearly seven-hour standoff with the man. Earlier Tuesday, about 10:45 a.m., a deputy tried to fulfill a court-ordered conviction at The Oaks Apartments.

The man who lived at an apartment on Water Oaks Drive refused to leave, according to a news release. Wake County Sheriffs deputies communicated with him by various means, according to a news release.

About 5:30 p.m., members of the Sheriffs Office went into the apartment to try to remove the man.

At that time, one deputy fired his weapon, according to a news release.

The Sheriffs Office did not say what circumstances prompted the deputy to fire his weapon.





The State Bureau of Investigation will conduct an investigation, which is standard when an officer fires a weapon.

Residents in the complex were asked to evacuate while the man barricaded himself. The complex is in the northeast part of the county, off New Hope Road and near Louisburg Road.
We recently compiled a list of the 11 Best Freight Stocks To Buy Now. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Canadian National Railway Company (NYSE:CNI) stands against the other freight stocks.

The Red Sea Crisis & Shipping Challenges

The Red Sea accounts for 30% of global container trade via the Suez Canal. According to a report by JP Morgan, the Houthi attacks have disrupted the entire supply chain, forcing companies to reroute around Southern Africa, adding 4,000 miles to every journey. Rerouting will increase transit times by almost 30% and global container shipping capacity will decline by almost 9%. The report suggests that spot rates have soared amid the crisis. Spot rates in January 2024 from China to the US West and East Coast rose by 140% to 120% compared to November 2023. Jamie Dimon's investment bank expects trade disruptions to add 0.7 percentage points to global core goods inflation, and 0.3 percentage points to overall core inflation.

On May 6, Reuters reported that Maersk, the shipping giant, predicted that the crisis would cut the industry's capacity by almost 20% between Asia and Europe in the second quarter of 2024. Large shipping companies have diverted routes around Africa, leading to a rise in freight costs and shipping time. According to the Danish shipping group, shipping costs between Asia and Europe are now 40% higher for every journey. While experts expect the crisis to slow down before the end of 2024, the uncertainty and risk attached to the future of shipping are costing major shipping companies. To counter bottleneck situations and fuel faster sailing, companies are increasing their shipping capacity. The company has so far released over 125,000 additional containers. You can also read our piece on the most advanced countries in logistics.

Technology Disrupting the Freight Industry

While the Red Sea crisis is a major headwind for the freight industry, technological advancements will be monumental for the sector's growth. Companies like GXO are using technology to disrupt the industry. You can also take a look at the richest billionaires in the logistics industry.

On May 14, the company deployed robots for a global sporting goods retailer in France. The robotics solution was designed to reduce the order processing time and improve response time to seasonal volume changes. The solution is deployed across 12,000 square meters at the site. The solution includes 500 autonomous mobile robots that manage 70,000 bins on 5.5-meter tall storage racks. In 2023, the company increased its automated and tech systems by 50% and is actively working to integrate machine learning and artificial intelligence. Here are some comments from the company's Q1 2024 earnings call:

"Automation is a key tenant of our value proposition. And were the first mover in trialing the integration of cutting-edge automation like humanoid and AI inside the four walls of the warehouse. Weve recently introduced some exciting innovations in AI. First, the warehouse optimization pilot we mentioned last quarter was a success driving a productivity increase of approximately 15%, and were rolling out the app across our sites as we speak. Second, weve recently piloted a proprietary workforce management tool, which we developed in-house. Our tool makes more than 15 million decisions per minute to streamline inventory replenishment and adding about 7% of capacity at no additional cost. We will be deploying this solution broadly across our operations starting this year."

Now that we have studied the freight industry, let's discuss some of the best freight stocks to buy now. You can also read our piece on the best transportation stocks to buy.

Our Methodology

To come up with the 11 best freight stocks to buy now, we went over our own rankings, similar rankings on the internet, and three transportation ETFs. We created an initial pool of 30 freight stocks and selected the top 11 with the largest number of hedge fund holders as of Q1 2024. Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletters strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 275% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 150 percentage points. (see more details here).

5 Cities with the Worst Public Transportation in the US

A driverless train traversing vast countryside, illustrating the companies long-distance rail transport services.

Canadian National Railway Company (NYSE:CNI)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 40

Canadian National Railway Company (NYSE:CNI) is one of the best freight stocks to buy now. The company has a 20,000-mile network across Canada and the United States covering the Atlantic, Pacific, and the Gulf of Mexico.

Canadian National Railway Company (NYSE:CNI) is also popular among investors. At the close of the first quarter of 2024, 40 investors were bullish on the company and held consolidated stakes worth $13.53 billion. Of those, Michael Larson's Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust was the largest stakeholder, with a position worth $7.22 billion.

The company's earnings grew by 11.28% over the past 12 months and 6.82% over the past five years. Analysts polled by Yahoo Finance expect the company's earnings to grow by 11.17% in 2024 and by 25.19% in 2025.

While the freight industry remains volatile due to geopolitical risks, the company's intermodal international and forest products segment continues to improve. With growth expectations in mind, the company expects to deliver 10% EPS growth in 2024. Canadian National Railway Company (NYSE:CNI) has a dividend yield of 1.9% as at the time of writing. The company has a 5-year dividend growth rate of 10.58% and a payout ratio of 44.57%. CNI is also on analysts' radars. Based on price targets from 31 analysts, the stock has a median price forecast of $134.31, representing an upside of 12.56% from its current price of 119.32.

Overall CNI ranks 8th on our list of the best freight stocks to buy. You can visit 11 Best Freight Stocks To Buy Now to see the other freight stocks that are on hedge funds radar. While we acknowledge the potential of CNI as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than CNI but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: Analyst Sees a New $25 Billion "Opportunity" for NVIDIA and Jim Cramer is Recommending These 10 Stocks in June.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
SAULT STE. MARIE  Sault residents and visitors will soon get their once-a-year chance to get up close and personal with freighters passing through the Soo Locks during Engineers Day.

Engineers Day, celebrated on Friday, June 28, is an annual event to celebrate the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the many people that keep the Soo Locks running smoothly.

"The very first Engineers Day was in 1975 and it was just such a huge success that we continue to do it every year, and then it's grown and evolved over the years as well, just with expanding and incorporating more of the other entities within the city and the county," said Soo Locks Operations Manager LeighAnn Ryckeghem.

Visitors watch as the Soo Locks tour boats demonstrate how boats move through the system on July 13, 2022, in downtown Sault Ste. Marie.

The Soo Locks are not only one of the most significant landmarks in the city, but they are also a vital piece of infrastructure supporting the shipping and automotive industries across the country.

The event is celebrated at the end of June every year to mark the birthday of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which is turning 249 this year.

Local shops set up various booths in and around Portage Avenue on June 30 to celebrate Engineers Day in 2023.

"If people haven't been to the Soo Locks before this is a unique opportunity that we allow once a year, and it really is an engineering marvel, and it has a very strong significance to the national economy and national security. So it has some rich history here, and you get to get a different glimpse of it during Engineers Day," said Ryckeghem.

As a way to give back to the community and show support for the year-round work they do, the corps opens the doors of the locks to the public to allow for up close viewings of the locks, which are normally closed to the public expect for a few guided tours.

While visitors won't be able to walk across the New Lock project that is currently under construction, they will get the chance to see to the Poe Lock, which will be letting through 1,000-foot or longer ships, and walk across the smaller MacArthur Lock.

The Soo Locks were open to visitors for a limited time on Friday, June 30, 2023 during Engineers Day.

Subscribe: Get unlimited access to our coverage

Thousands of visitors come to the Soo every year to see the locks and other events taking place throughout downtown on Engineers Day, including a line of vendors up and down Portage Avenue and in front of City Hall.

The City of Sault Ste. Marie, the Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau, the United States Coast Guard, the Lake Superior State University Center for Freshwater Research and Education and more are working with the corps to host open houses and other events throughout the day.

The locks will be open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Canal Park and the viewing platform will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the Soo Locks Visitor Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The other events throughout downtown will have their own schedules.

The Soo Locks are normally closed to visitors, except on Engineers Day when locals can cross straight through the locks.

This year, the locks will be implementing a new security requirement. All visitors to the locks carrying bags will have to use see through clear bags no larger than 12 inches long, 6 inches deep and 12 inches wide. All people will be searched upon entering the locks. Weapons, drugs, pets (except service animals) and bicycles are not permitted.

The Soo Locks are a vital part of our communitys history. Engineers Day lets us celebrate the history and ingenuity behind the Soo Locks, said Linda Hoath, executive director of the Sault Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Over the past few years, weve helped grow Engineers Day into an event that involves the whole downtown. We look forward to welcoming visitors and residents alike to downtown for Engineers Day.

 Contact Brendan Wiesner: BWiesner@Sooeveningnews.com

This article originally appeared on The Sault News: Walk on the Soo Locks this Engineers Day
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated that the West's strategy of aiding Ukraine is showing effective results in repelling Russian aggression and the decisions at the upcoming NATO summit will contribute to Ukraine's success.

Source: Blinken and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a joint press conference after a meeting in Washington

Quote from Blinken: "The Ukraine strategy that weve had and that weve been acting on individually and collectively now for nearly two and a half years is showing effective results  effective results in making sure that Ukraine can ward off Russian aggression, and its done that remarkably. Keep in mind Putins objective from day one was to erase Ukraine from the map, to ends its existence as an independent country, to subsume it into Russia. That has failed.

But going forward, we want to make sure that Ukraine is a success, that it stands strongly on its own feet militarily, economically, democratically, and thats exactly what were enabling Ukraine to do. And that is the mark of success going forward. Again, decisions that will be made at the [NATO] summit will further that effort, and more to be said in a few weeks time."

Details: Blinken said the US is working to expedite the arrival of US-supplied aid to the front in Ukraine. He also expressed that it is "very effective in terms of stabilising the front lines and making sure that the Russians could be stopped in their offensive", adding that "what makes the biggest difference is the extraordinary courage and resilience of the Ukrainians themselves".

He also noted that new sanctions are being imposed on Russia as necessary "to keep the pressure up, so that the aggression ultimately ends".

Blinken also mentioned China's assistance to the Russian military machine.

"Were looking at countries that are supporting Russias defence industrial base, which is allowing Russia to continue the war, including China. As President Biden has made clear, we have a real concern not with the  not with weapons being supplied by China to Russia. Thats not what theyre doing. What they are doing, as youve heard me discuss many times, is providing critical support to Russias defence industrial base. Some 70 percent of the machine tools that Russia is importing are coming from China; 90 percent of the microelectronics coming from China. And that has enabled Russia to keep that defence industrial base going, to keep the war machine going, to keep the war going. So that has to stop," he pointed out.

Meanwhile, Stoltenberg stated that they "are addressing many deliverables on Ukraine before the upcoming NATO summit".

"We have already a plan for NATO training and security assistance for Ukraine. We have seen new announcements, and I expect those are more announcement of more military support to Ukraine," he said.

Stoltenberg added that they "will also have language expressing that Ukraine will become a member of the Alliance" during the summit.

"The exact language, exact  what we will agree, is what Allies  or  are now discussed among Allies, and  but I'm confident we will have a good solution agreement by the summit," Stoltenberg summarised.

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  Multiple police agencies across states are asking the public to be on the lookout for a 50-year-old man who has murdered four across two states.

Stacey Lee Drake, 50. (Arkansas State Police)

Officers searched the motel but did not find Drake. Police do not know if he was picked up or left the area on foot.

Drake is also wanted for a murder in Alabama. Drake is believed to have a handgun and is very dangerous. Police say to call 911 if the suspect is seen or for tips.

Arkansans got multiple phone alerts Wednesday morning: Heres why

Stacy Drakes criminal past in Fort Smith

In 2010, Drake was wanted for a home burglary in the River Valley. Arkansas Fort Smith Police Department told KNWA/FOX24 that Drake was the suspect in a home burglary. When police were dispatched to the home in February of 2010, officers found the residents of the home tied up. Their cash, credit cards and their car had been stolen.

Police say Drake was living in an RV in Fort Smith at the time of the crime. But when they searched the RV, he had already fled to Alabama.

PHOTOS: Man wanted for 4 murders across 2 states

The bank cards and money were never recovered.

Court records from Arizona show that Drake was found guilty in 2003 of aggravated assault and 2nd-degree burglary.

Arizona records also show that in 2019 is wanted for assault, two counts of disorderly conduct- fighting and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Public records for Alabama and Oklahoma are not made public.

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.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)  Washington County, Tennessee leaders are offering their condolences after a county commissioner passed away.

On Wednesday, Washington County Mayor Joe Grandy and Commission Chair Greg Matherly released a joint statement after the death of District 9 Commissioner Suzy Williams.

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We were devastated to learn of the passing of our colleague and friend, Commissioner Suzy Williams, Grandy said in his statement. All of us who worked with her in Washington County extend our deepest sympathies to the Williams family.

We are all suffering this loss and we extend our condolences to her husband Jack and the entire Williams family, said Matherly. Suzy served the community tirelessly, not only on the Washington County Commission but in numerous community boards and activities. In addition to her service as 9th district Washington County Commissioner, she was an active member of the Employee Compensation & Benefits, Ethics, Health, Education & Welfare committees, the Countys Communications Task Force, and served as county representative to the Johnson City Library Board.

The joint statement did not provide any further details on Williamss death.

Williams also previously served on the Johnson City Board of Education and was active in the Washington-Unicoi-Johnson County Medical Alliance and Junior League.

A native of Erwin, Williams became a Washington County citizen in 1970 when her husband Jack joined Appalachian Orthopedics. She and Jack were active members of the Westminster Presbyterian Church, which they helped found.

She graduated from the University of Tennessee.

This is a developing story.

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.
A bottle of buprenorphine, a medication to treat opioid-use disorder. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Washingtons medical professionals nearly tripled the states prescribing rate of buprenorphine, an opioid addiction treatment medication, after federal regulations were loosened  but the COVID-19 pandemic undercut those gains.

Thats according to a new study published in the American Journal of Public Health supported by the state Department of Health, which analyzed monthly data on buprenorphine prescriptions in Washington from 2012 to 2022.

The study attributes rising rates to the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, a federal law passed in 2016, which allowed nurse practitioners and physician assistants to prescribe buprenorphine for the first time, instead of only physicians with specific training.

But the pandemic slowed the rising rates of nurse practitioners and physician assistants prescribing buprenorphine, said Fan Xiong, senior epidemiologist at the Department of Health and one of the studys authors. Thats in line with what happened nationally.

From August 2016 to October 2018, the monthly average number of prescriptions was 28,072. That jumped to 43,323 average monthly prescriptions from November 2018 to February 2020. But from March 2020 to December 2022, the average monthly prescriptions declined to 42,662.

If there was never a pandemic, then we would expect to see that the rates continued to increase, Xiong said. But during the pandemic, there was no increase in prescribing. None.

Xiong said research suggests that established patients were able to continue care during the pandemic, but new patients found it more difficult to begin treatment.

The data used in the study doesnt include race and ethnicity breakdowns. But Xiong said its likely Black patients and other patients of color were disproportionately affected by the slide in buprenorphine prescription rates, partly due to an overall lack of health care access.

Buprenorphine has been considered an effective treatment for opioid addiction in the United States for the past 20 years, and medication is currently the gold standard for opioid-use disorder treatment.

However, provider uptake has been suboptimal and access to buprenorphinelimited because of mandated patient capacity limits, education requirements, and restricted prescribing waivers to certain qualifying health care practitioners, the studys authors write.

The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act also allowed providers with prescribing waivers to increase the number of patients they can treat from 100 to 275 after theyve had a waiver for at least a year. As of 2023, providers no longer need a waiver to prescribe buprenorphine.

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Xiong said that he was surprised to see rates of prescriptions from physicians decline after the passage of the 2018 SUPPORT Act, a sweeping federal bill meant to tackle the opioid epidemic that included more training for health care providers to treat opioid-use disorder.

Many factors could have contributed to that, he said, including an increase in patients turning to nurse practitioners and physician assistants, rather than physicians. But one 2022 survey of about 4,500 physicians Xiong cited found about 13% of physicians said they werent prescribing buprenorphine because there wasnt a demand.

Thats puzzling to Xiong, who pointed out that many more people have opioid-use disorder than are in treatment for the disorder.

It begs the question: If someone needs treatment, how come theyre not able to get it, even if they see a provider who can prescribe it to them, right? Xiong said, citing potential barriers to treatment, such as limited insurance coverage and stigma against people with opioid addiction.

Xiong said he hopes to see the state and federal government continue to increase Medicaid coverage for buprenorphine and other similar medications, train more health care providers, and provide more support for low-barrier treatment centers.

People are also waiting far too long to access treatment  often at least a month or two, said Xiong. He believes itll take time to reverse two decades of poor policy choices.

Related: Could WAs health hub model treating opioid addiction go nationwide?

We dont deny people with type one diabetes insulin, but for some reason, we deny medication when they have opioid-use disorder, Xiong said. We need to have a mind shift where access to medications for opioid-use disorder has to be standard practice and not an exception.

The post Washington sees steep rise, then slow down in prescriptions to treat opioid addiction appeared first on Washington State Standard.
Guests tour the International African American Museum on Friday, June 23, 2023, in Charleston, S.C. Overlooking the old wharf at which nearly half of the enslaved population first entered North America, the 150,000-square foot museum houses exhibits and artifacts exploring how African Americans' labor, perseverance, resistance and cultures shaped the Carolinas, the nation and the world. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

The museum overlooks the old wharf where 40% of enslaved Africans first entered the U.S., and it honors their untold stories through genealogy, artifacts, and exhibits

The International African American Museum in the port city of Charleston, South Carolina, has drawn more than 100,000 visitors since opening its doors last summer.



Nestled on Gadsdens Wharf, where an estimated 40% of enslaved Africans first set foot in this country, it is the second-largest museum focused on Black history. It took more than 20 years to complete the $120 million project. The museum features artifacts, exhibits, and a genealogy center that helps visitors trace their ancestry.



Just before its grand opening last June, we sat down with the museums president and CEO, Dr. Tonya Matthews, who shared what visitors can expect to experience at this 150,000-square-foot facility. Watch the video below to learn more.

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Finn Saksa, 3, plays in the water at a spray-ground, Sunday at Washington Park

A heat advisory has been issued for Greater Cincinnati through Friday evening.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington warned a swath of Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana would face "a prolonged period of dangerously hot conditions" with heat indices near 100 degrees.

Residents are urged to drink fluids, stay in air conditioning, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: How hot will it be in Cincinnati today, Thursday, Friday
'We're very blessed to be a part of this community': Alliance YWCA opens second shelter

ALLIANCE  The need is still there, but Alliance YWCA now can house more women and families.

The nonprofit agency on Friday celebrated the opening of its second transitional shelter. The dorm-style property at 721 S. Union Ave. has 14 bedrooms, six bathrooms, common living spaces, shared kitchens and laundry rooms. It has been split between individual women and families.

The facility is named "Donna Jean's House" after Donna Jean Ermlich, a past president of Alliance YWCA who died in 2021. Her estate donated the money for the Alliance YWCA to buy the large triplex.

Stacie Bacorn, executive director of Alliance YWCA, helped to open the organization's newest shelter, a home on South Union Avenue in Alliance. Bacorn detailed the Leonard and Martha Goldrick Endowment Fund, which will help financially support the new facility.

Additionally, the United Women in Faith of Christ Methodist Church has established an endowment for the new YWCA shelter with funds from the Leonard and Martha (Carr) Goldrick Family. The endowment will provide financial resources to help the shelter.

The agency's main location on East Market Street has limited space, only housing six people at a time.

Stacie Bacorn, executive director of Alliance YWCA, said the agency has a wait-list of nearly 75 people seeking temporary shelter. She said Donna Jean's House allows the agency to reduce that list and provide individual women and families opportunity to transform their lives.

A children's play area inside the new Alliance YWCA shelter called Donna Jean's House at 721 S. Union Ave. in Alliance. The shelter opened last week.

Ten people  four single women and two families  have been placed in Donna Jean's House, Bacorn said.

Caitie Scott, president of Alliance YWCA board, said the second shelter was badly needed in the community.

Caitie Scott, president of the Alliance YWCA board, welcomes guests to the opening event for the nonprofit's new South Union Avenue shelter for families and women on June 14, 2024, in Alliance.

"I mean the homeless (problem) here in Alliance is just growing at a rapid rate and to be able to provide some relief to families in this community, especially those in need and maybe going through some monumental moments in their lives ... just does wonders," Scott said.

Bacorn, Scott and Korean Pow, program director at Alliance YWCA, said all the furnishings  furniture, toys, bedding  was donated. Most of the work was completed by volunteers. The nonprofit agency received a grant for security upgrades.

Korena Pow, program director for Alliance YWCA, gives an overview of the housing space on June 14, 2024, during an open house at the nonprofit's new shelter at 721 S. Union Ave.

"I think the most exciting part is that the entire community invested in this space. They showed up with their time. They showed up with their donation," Scott said. "We're very blessed to be a part of this community and it just shows you that we really look out for each other."

Reach Benjamin Duer at 330-580-8567 or ben.duer@cantonrep.com. On X (formerly Twitter): @bduerREP.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Alliance YWCA opens Donna Jean's House, a shelter for women, families
'Can't Wait For OpenAI To Have Access To My Phone' Says Musk As Former NSA Chief Joins OpenAI Board

OpenAI recently announced that retired U.S. Army General Paul M. Nakasone, the former Chief of the National Security Agency (NSA) and former leader of the U.S. Cyber Command, has joined their Board of Directors.

The company introduced Nakasone as a "leading expert in cybersecurity" to reinforce its commitment to safety and security. However, as AI technology seeps into almost all pores of society, this decision wasnt received lightly and has sparked significant controversy and backlash.

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Edward Snowden, the former NSA employee and whistleblower, strongly criticized the decision. He tweeted, "Theyve gone full mask-off: do not ever trust @OpenAI or its products (ChatGPT etc). There is only one reason for appointing an @NSAGov Director to your board. This is a willful, calculated betrayal of the rights of every person on Earth. You have been warned."

Elon Musk also commented sarcastically with a tweet, "Can't wait for OpenAI to have access to my phone." Musk is no stranger to criticizing OpenAI and its products, and this comment is just one in a series of tweets that fit into a larger pattern of Musks ongoing criticisms of OpenAI, the company he cofounded in 2015.

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Matthew Green, a cryptography professor at Johns Hopkins University, also expressed his concerns on Twitter. He wrote, "I do think that the biggest application of AI is going to be mass population surveillance, so bringing the former head of the NSA into OpenAI has some solid logic behind it."

Nakasones appointment comes amid a series of high-profile departures from OpenAI, including safety researchers like Daniel Kokotajlo and William Saunders. The AI company also completely disbanded the "Superalignment" safety team, which has added to the skepticism surrounding the new board members role and the future direction of OpenAI.

When he announced his departure, Jan Leike, who worked on OpenAIs long-term safety initiatives and was part of the "Superalignment" team, criticized the company for not supporting his team's work. Policy researcher Gretchen Krueger, who also left recently, echoed some of Leikes concerns and mentioned additional issues she observed.

Story continues

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A former Upper Bucks County couple have admitted they neglected their seven children who were found hungry, sick and living in a dilapidated mobile home with two dozen well-cared for animals including a 4-foot exotic lizard with its own TikTok account.

At a June 10 Bucks County Court appearance Shane Robertson, 48, entered an open guilty plea to seven felony counts of endangering the welfare of children and summary charges of animal neglect.

His wife, Crystal Lynn Robertson, 38, entered an open guilty plea to the same charges in May.

Theyve been dismissed, Crystal Robertson said when asked to comment last October on felony charges of child abuse and neglect. Robertson, 38, and husband, Shane, 48, will stand trial on 14 counts of child abuse and neglect of their seven children.

More on the Robertson family Police say 7 siblings in Sellersville were terribly neglected. Why no one seemed to notice

The couple's next court appearance is August where Bucks County Common Pleas Judge Charissa Liller is scheduled to sentence them on the endangering charges, prosecutor Brittney Kern said.

What is unclear, at this point, what will happen with the remaining open related charges against the couple for misdemeanor simple assault and conspiracy, Kern said. Those charges will be addressed at the August sentencing.

The Robertsons remain free on bail and now live in Wilmington, Delaware, according to the court docket. Their children remain in the custody of Bucks County Children and Youth Social Services. Their animals were surrendered to the Bucks County SPCA.

Authorities believe the family of nine moved into the three-bedroom home on Roseann Lane in the Green Top Mobile Home Park in West Rockhill after the 2020 death of Crystal Robertsons father, who owned the trailer where they lived.

Shane and Crystal Robertson were charged with seven felony counts of endangering the welfare of children, on Friday, May 19, 2023, after police found seven kids living in squalor in their West Rockhill home.

But their living situation wasnt revealed until April 2023 when a neighbor called Pennridge Regional Police to report the children were taking items out of an abandoned mobile home.

One child told the officer who responded that she only took a blanket to keep the familys pet rats warm, because her parents didnt have much money left.

A subsequent police investigation found the seven children, who ranged in age from 4 to 16, were living in squalid unhealthy conditions. A refrigerator door was secured with a bike lock to keep the children out. Police reported the only notable food in the home was for the animals, who appeared well-cared for.

While the alleged neglect was continuing, Crystal Robertson maintained a TikTok account featuring her prized lizard.

The children, though, were diagnosed with health problems including severe dental neglect, low kidney function, poor eyesight, speech impediments, and malnutrition. They were homeschooled and rarely left the trailer. Some children didnt know their age or birth dates.

Authorities alleged that the Robertson children told investigators their parents would hit them with belts, hands and electrical cords if they misbehaved like trying to sneak food or soda when they were hungry.

When Shane Robertson threatened to suffocate one of the children, Crystal Robertson responded, Do whatever you want. Kill them if you want, authorities said. Shane Robertson also allegedly gave a child who expressed suicidal thoughts a knife and encouraged her to kill herself, according to court documents.

At a preliminary hearing earlier this year on the assault charges, defense attorneys for the couple argued their clients disciplined their children, but that the punishments did not rise to the level of abuse or simple assault.

Reporter Jo Ciavaglia can be reached at jciavaglia@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: West Rockhill couple who neglected their 7 kids to be sentenced
Where are fireworks legal in the Kansas City area in 2024?

KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Its almost the time of year when random fireworks start popping up in the night sky, but is it legal to shoot them off where you live?

This year, fireworks sales in Missouri are permitted to start on Thursday and run through July 10. In Kansas, theres a smaller window: You can only buy fireworks from June 27 to July 5.

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But buying fireworks in both Kansas and Missouri doesnt mean you can shoot them off in every city. Some metro areas do not permit fireworks at all, while others have varied regulations.

Heres a breakdown city-by-city of where you can shoot off your Fourth of July fireworks. Some regulations may change ahead of the Fourth of July holiday.

Kansas

Bonner Springs: City code only allows fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. from July 3-4. Fireworks are not allowed in city parks or parking lots. Bottle rockets and lanterns are illegal.

De Soto: Fireworks are prohibited to sell or use in De Soto unless theyre part of a public display with a permit issued, per the city code.

Gardner: The sale of fireworks is permitted between June 28 and July 4 in Gardner. They can be discharged from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 2-4. Click here for details on where they can be discharged.

Kansas City, Kansas: Fireworks are legal, except for sky lanterns, rockets, and missiles, to sell from June 29 through July 4, according to the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and KCK. You may shoot from July 2 through July 4, 9 a.m. through 11 p.m.

Lawrence: The city ordinance states that the use, possession, handling, and sale of fireworks are prohibited except for the use of fireworks for display, as outlined in supervised public displays. Novelty items such as party poppers, snappers, snakes, sparklers, toy caps and toy smoke devices are acceptable.

Douglas County: People can ignite or discharge fireworks and novelty items legally on private property in the unincorporated areas of the county on July 2 and July 3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and July 4 from 7 a.m. to midnight.

Kansas news: Headlines from Wichita, Topeka and around the Sunflower State

Leawood: Fireworks cannot be sold, used or possessed in Leawood, city code says.

Lenexa: The sale and use of fireworks is not allowed in Lenexa.

Merriam: Fireworks are illegal in Merriam, according to city ordinance.

Olathe: Fireworks are illegal to possess and shoot off in Olathe, police say.

Overland Park: Its illegal to buy or use fireworks in Overland Park with some exceptions such as snappers, snakes, toy pistols or canes with caps. Any device that produces a visible or audible effect through combustion or detonation is not allowed in Overland Park.

Prairie Village: Fireworks arent allowed in Prairie Villages city limits.

Roeland Park: Only novelty items like sparklers, snakes, snappers, smoke devices and cone fountains are allowed, but theyre limited to noon to 10 p.m. on July 4, the city said. Bottle rockets or aerial fireworks are not allowed.

Shawnee: The City Council voted in May of 2022 to allow fireworks during a specific time frame. The city says fireworks may be legally set off within city limits between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 3 and July 4. Bottle rockets, sky lanterns and M80s are not allowed.

Tonganoxie: Fireworks are allowed from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on June 30 through July 4. Bottle rockets are not allowed.

Missouri

Belton: Fireworks can be discharged from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 28 through July 2, from noon to 10 p.m. on July 3, and from 10 a.m. to midnight on July 4. The possession, sale and/or use of bottle rockets, skyrockets and Roman candles are prohibited.

Blue Springs: Fireworks are allowed from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 1-3 and from 10 a.m. to midnight on July 4. Bottle rockets and aerial luminaries are prohibited, according to city code.

Gladstone: The possession, sale and use of fireworks are prohibited in Gladstone under city ordinance.

Grandview: The sale or use of fireworks is not allowed in Grandview under city ordinance.

Independence: You can shoot off consumer fireworks from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 3 and 5 and from 10 a.m. to midnight on July 4. Its against city code to have or use sparkler bombs, sky lanterns, and altered or combined fireworks.

Missouri news: Headlines from St. Louis, Jefferson City and across the Show-Me State

Kansas City, Missouri: Shooting off fireworks is illegal in Kansas City under city ordinance.

Lees Summit: Fireworks can only be discharged on July 2 and 3 between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m., and July 4 between 10 a.m. and midnight. Each household is required to have a free Fireworks Use Permit before discharging fireworks within the city limits.

Liberty: Non-aerial fireworks are allowed from 4-10 p.m. July 3-4. Aerial fireworks are allowed during the same timeframe for Liberty residents who live on three-acre tracts of land or more.

North Kansas City: Fireworks are not permitted within city limits, according to city code.

Parkville: Fireworks can only be discharged on July 1-3 and July 5 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on July 4, 10 a.m. to midnight. All aerial fireworks are prohibited.

Platte City: Fireworks are allowed from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 20 to July 3, and from 10 a.m. to midnight on July 4, except on Sundays when fireworks cant start before noon, according to city code.

Raymore: This year, fireworks are allowed from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 1-2, from noon to 10 p.m. July 3 and from 10 a.m. to midnight July 4, according to city code.

Riverside: Fireworks can only be used from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 26 to July 2 and July 5, and from 10 a.m. to midnight on July 3-4. Bottle rockets are prohibited, according to city code.

Smithville: Fireworks can be discharged from 9 a.m. until 11 p.m. July 3-5. The sale of fireworks is limited to the hours between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. beginning June 20 through July 5.

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 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  A new immigration policy from the Biden administration will allow some undocumented immigrants to stay and work in the U.S.

The plan offers protection to immigrants who are married to U.S. citizens and have lived in the country for at least ten years.

This is expected to impact about half a million immigrants who currently live in the U.S. and will give them a pathway to work and live here permanently.

Its good for America, period, said Biden.

President Biden announced plans to allow undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency and eventually citizenship, without risk of deportation.

To qualify, the immigrant has to have lived in the U.S. for ten years and be married to a citizen as of Monday.

These couples have been raising families, sending their kids to church and school, paying taxes, contributing to our country for every, for ten years or more, said Biden.

The move draws a contrast to the presidents recent border crackdown restricting crossings into the U.S.

We can both secure the border and provide legal pathways to citizenship, Biden said.

Democrats are praising the new executive actions which Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) called bold and exciting.

Not just bringing fairness and justice but hope and opportunity, Padilla said.

Republicans like Senator Joni Ernst are slamming the new policy.

President Biden has rolled out the red carpet for illegal migrants, said Ernst.

The presidents chief political rival, Donald Trump, is criticizing the announcement too.

Crooked Joe is sending a message to the world that he rewards illegal entry, said Trump.

Trump contrasted the new policy with his own immigration plans.

Were going to get them out as fast as we can. Were going to have the largest deportation, said Trump.

President Biden accused Trump of using the hotly contested issue for political gain.

Folks, Im not interested in playing politics at the border or immigration. Im interested in fixing it, said Biden.

About 50,000 undocumented children could also qualify for the new process.

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.
A white mob in Ohio denied land to hundreds of former slaves, a lawmaker wants to right that wrong

Rep. Dontavius Jarrells, D-Columbus, standing next to the canal in New Bremen. (Photo by Nick Evans/Ohio Capital Journal)

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During the height of summer in 1846, a mob of white Mercer County, Ohio, residents surrounded a group of nearly 400 Freedpeople whod just taken a boat up the Miami Canal to New Bremen. The former slaves had been traveling for more than a month, making a nearly 300-mile trek across Virginia and the Allegheny mountains on foot, before taking a boat to Cincinnati and following the canal north.

The day before, the members of that mob had celebrated Independence Day. Now, they were posting guards around the Freedpeoples impromptu camp and warning them to post a $500 bond each or leave by 10 oclock the following morning.

When the Randolph Freedpeople piled onto southbound canalboats, historian Gregory May describes, white men armed with muskets and bayonets followed them down the towpath out of Mercer County.

Once across the county line, however, they didnt just disappear. The group settled in nearby counties and many of their descendants still live in Ohio.

Now, Rep. Dontavius Jarrells, D-Columbus, is calling on the state to right a historical wrong. He argues dispossessing the Freedpeople of their land deprived them of an essential economic foothold and the chance to build generational wealth for their descendants.

How the journey began

The Randolph Freedpeople draw their name from their former owner, John Randolph. Born a few years before the Revolutionary War, he was the scion of Virginia nobility. Randolph spent more than two decades in the U.S. House, and served briefly in the U.S. Senate and as the American minister to Russia. His second cousin, Thomas Jefferson, dabbled in politics and diplomacy, too, not to mention architecture, before becoming the third president of the United States.

The familys money came from tobacco, and that meant slaves. While Randolph opposed the idea of slavery, that didnt stop him from perpetuating it. He didnt free his own until his death.

The problem is, Randolph wrote multiple wills and had a reputation for eccentricity. Disputes over his estate were tied up in court for more than a decade. Mays book, A Madmans Will, details that case and the Freedpeoples odyssey to Ohio.

At the time, Virginia law required Freedpeople to leave the state. So, in addition to freeing his slaves, Randolphs will directed his executor to set aside money to purchase land and supplies for them as well as cover travel.

Ohios laws werent very welcoming, either. Despite being a free state, Ohio had Black codes requiring two landowners to post a $500 bond to ensure a Freedperson would not be a drain on public funds. As May explains, that was more than the cost of most farms at the time.

When Randolphs executor, Virginia Judge William Leigh, came to Ohio scouting land, local leaders assured him those laws were rarely enforced. Leigh settled on Mercer County after hearing about a small but blossoming Black community there called Carthagena. The town was laid out in 1840 and, according to May, the place soon had a wagonmaker, blacksmith, mason, and tanner as well as weavers, shoemakers, barbers, and even a hatter.

In addition, Carthagena drew the interest of Quakers who set up an agricultural and mechanical trades school called the Emlen Institute nearby.

Leigh purchased about 3,000 acres of land on which the Freedpeople were to settle, aiming for 40 acres per family with additional money for housing, tools and other supplies. Even before those purchases were complete, however, there was an inkling of the coming opposition. After hearing rumors about the land sales, state lawmakers passed resolutions to consider banning Black migrants outright.

After the mob

After being denied their land in Mercer County, the Freedpeople first set up camp on a large farm outside Piqua, Ohio. That city and the Miami County seat of Troy were better established settlements, with bustling commercial and industrial interests. White residents there didnt oppose the Freedpeople as vehemently because they could use the labor.

Still, they werent welcomed with open arms.

Those who settled in Piqua built homes across the river in an unincorporated settlement called Rossville. And while that boundary was porous and softened over time, Kris Lee said, the distinction persisted.

I was growing up in the 70s, he explained, but we knew our place. We knew what to say, we knew where we could go and couldnt go.

Lee is one of the Randolph descendants and he grew up in Rossville. I lived up on the hill, he said, pointing up the road. With a broad grin, he described how their home had dirt floors and an outhouse, but he grew up happy.

Lee is now the mayor of Piqua.

Neither of my parents are alive today, but they would have been tickled pink, he said. A kid that was born in Rossville, a descendant of the Randolph slaves, is now mayor of the city of Piqua  its a great story.

Over the years, the people who settled in Rossville built a community, but they had to start from zero. As May writes, Leigh was eventually able to sell the Mercer County land, but what he was able to get for the Freedpeople was far less than the 40 acres he was aiming for. Instead of starting out in Ohio together, the group was spread out across two counties. And in places like Rossville, the Freedpeople often worked as domestic servants or manual laborers rather than working for themselves on their own land.

Lee, a few other descendants and local historians met at the African Jackson Cemetery in Rossville last week. The sloping lawn has a few trees and a historical marker, but there are only a handful of headstones.

There are about 130 people interred in the ground, Larry Hamilton explained. Hes a local historian and retired teacher who spent 30 years teaching Black history at Piqua High School.

The headstones were vandalized, and people came through and kicked them over and all kinds of things happened, Paisha Thomas explained. Her seventh great-grandfather was Johnson Crowder, one of the Randolph Freedpeople, and she sits on the board of a group working to rehabilitate the cemetery. They recently received a $75,000 grant from Miami County to carry out that work.

The restoration will restore the honor dignity of all of them, Thomas said.

At least those that we know are buried here, Hamilton added. There may have been some burials that may not have been totally marked.

Later, standing in the church she came to as a girl, Thomas explained: My hope would be complete restoration, and an opportunity for the descendants of John Randolphs Freedpeople to experience land ownership at its fullest.

I understand that this is America, she added, So I get that thats not going to be easy. I think, though, that we have already won because now everyone is aware of an erased story.

Back to Mercer County

Theres a park now at the New Bremen canal lock where the Freedpeople arrived back in 1846. A sculpture of a boy with a mule sits along the banks on the old towpath, and there are massive timber gates built to match the originals.

Speaking on a small footbridge, Rep. Jarrells compared the incident to coming home from a vacation and finding some stranger had taken possession of your home.

What if they were given what they rightfully deserved? he asked, How [much] further would they have been as a people?

While Jarrells is unequivocal about the repugnance of what happened here, he struggles to wrap his arms around the magnitude of the injustice. The way he himself wrestles with how to respond highlights of the difficulty of the task hes set himself.

The first step is acknowledging that it happened, Jarrells argued.

He insisted that simply putting up a historical marker doesnt cut it and wont relieve the cruelty of what occurred.

But after acknowledging the incident, the states path gets complicated. The 3,200 acres Judge Leigh purchased amount to a scattered checkerboard of parcels near Carthagena, about eight miles west of New Bremen. Researchers contend its possible to track them down, but its not clear yet who owns them and what theyre doing with them.

All the same, Jarrells argued, there has to be some land there that we own as a state.

Could it be handed to a nonprofit, he wonders aloud, to build a memorial or a museum? What about transferring title to a foundation that would rent it back to the state? The organization might use those dollars to provide scholarships for descendants or give them seed funding to start a business.

Added to the challenge of tracking down land and settling on what to do with it is the question of finding descendants. Hamiltons guess? There are tens of thousands who could trace their heritage to those initial 383 Freedpeople. Some of them might not even know it.

Hamilton described the descendants of one Freedman named Henry Clay finding out only after getting their DNA tested. Clay was so light that his freedom papers described him as bright.

And he was consequently able to pass, Hamilton explained. He entered the Civil War before Black people were actually able to enlist and, after the war, he didnt come back to Piqua, he went to Iowa.

Clays descendants had never known his heritage, and theyd never heard of the Randolph Freedpeople story.

Whats more, Jarrells faces the challenge of convincing Ohios conservative supermajority that its a good idea in the first place.

In a written statement, Gov. Mike DeWines spokesman Dan Tierney said we have had initial conversations with him about this issue. We look forward to working with the representative on ideas to honor the legacy and history of the Randolph Freedpeople.

But while the governors office lands somewhere close to supportive but noncommittal, Republican lawmakers have been less inclined to wrestle with the long tail of slavery. In current session, for instance, they have advanced legislation prohibiting diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and altering curricula to avoid divisive concepts.

Jarrells rejected an argument that could come from critics of his idea, that correcting a historical wrong might look like other efforts to reckon with the impacts of systemic racism: reparations.

Its not reparations, right? he insisted, Its about justice, because any other family who went through the same thing, they would have received it.

Youre not giving somebody a handout, he went on. Youre giving them what they already had. I think that thats important  to make sure we paint [that] in this conversation. This is what was already theirs in the first place.

The aftermath

Rather than burning off frustrations, the mob standoff in New Bremen only gave white residents license for further racial animus. After chasing off the Randolph Freedpeople, they turned on the Black residents already living in Mercer County.

Gregory May describes how in August 1846 local white leaders met and passed a resolution stating, every African American in the county was settled in violation of the bond requirement in the Black laws and contrary to the wishes of the white population.

The assembly called for state laws outright prohibiting Black migrants in Ohio and warned Mercer Countys Black residents to leave by March 1 of the following year.

We have fully determined that we will resist the settlement of Blacks and mulattos in this county to the full extent of our means, they wrote, the bayonet not excepted.

A contemporary newspaper was quick to dismiss the assemblys concerns over bond as absurd, May noted. The combined value of their property was about $2,000, far less than the value of the land that belonged to the freedmen arriving from Virginia.

The Randolph Freedpeoples story was later twisted into an argument for the futility of compensating newly emancipated slaves. In this telling, offered by a Mercer County congressman named William Mungen in 1868, the Randolph Freedpeople got their land. They got cattle, tools, provisions and money, too. They were no longer on the land, Mungen said, because they were too lazy to work it.

That version of the story conflates the Randolph Freedpeople with the existing Black community near Carthagena, May writes, while conceal[ing] the white violence against Black settlers.

A few miles down the road from New Bremen, a Carthagena graveyard, like Rossville, offers a stark physical reminder of racial divisions. Behind a church sits row upon row of well-kept headstones. A small black fence separates that graveyard from the scattered markers that make up the Carthagena Black Cemetery.

Well, Hamilton said, these are the kinds of stark examples of discrimination and exclusionary kinds of behavior or conduct on the part of people who have been privileged and think that they have been afforded a different station in life.

Still, even if its detestable, Hamilton argued, its part of our history. And its important to acknowledge it and try to document it and move on.

And not repeat it, Jarrells added.

Looking around the cemetery, Paisha Thomas wrestles with what should be done. On the one hand, she believes descendants deserve something for 180-plus years worth of land ownership they lost out on. But on the other, the prospect of someone like her moving here is fraught.

When they have to get groceries and do their living, she said, theyre going to be in a world that was intentionally set up for them to stay out.

You know, I dont know, she said, surveying the rolling farmland nearby. I wouldnt want to live out here. But I wouldnt turn down the chance if I knew that I had protection.

Looking forward

Whether Jarrells proposal takes the form of handing over land or adding a line-item in the budget, there will be some who view it as unjust. Even if the Randolph Freedpeople were wronged, it may be argued that asking this generation to pay for an earlier ones transgressions misplaces culpability.

Its a familiar argument. It comes up anytime policymakers try to make good on past misdeeds. But atonement is possible. The federal government, for instance, compensated Japanese families interned during World War II.

And while some neighbors might be affronted, Piqua mayor Kris Lees experience suggests others wouldnt. He explained the people of New Bremen have been nothing but receptive to him.

Currently, Im a part-time police officer in New Bremen, he said with a grin. The only Black officer there.

Before becoming mayor of Piqua, Lee spent 22 years on the citys police force. After retiring in 2016, he picked up part-time work with the department in Anna, a few miles north, and wound up following his chief to New Bremen a few years later.

Im a Randolph descendant and was denied property there, he chuckled, and here I am patrolling the streets.

The post A white mob in Ohio denied land to hundreds of former slaves, a lawmaker wants to right that wrong appeared first on Florida Phoenix.
Why Australia could hold the key to fixing the UKs crumbling NHS

Crumbling NHS services have fuelled a surge in demand for private healthcare.

A record 898,000 patients turned to private hospitals in 2023, up 7pc on the year before, as NHS waiting lists grew out of control.

The rise has reignited a debate around going private  does it help or hinder the NHS and should its use be encouraged or not?

The majority of admissions to private hospitals are funded by insurance, which most people access through employer-backed schemes.

But anyone who is not covered through their employer will have to pay out of their own pocket  and as demand has soared, so have the premiums.

The average health insurance premium went up from 1,203 in 2021 to 1,225 in 2022, according to healthcare data provider LaingBuisson.

The UK used to offer tax relief to over-60s taking out private health insurance until the policy was abolished by Gordon Brown in 1997.

Now, Nigel Farages Reform UK party has proposed its return. In its election manifesto last week, chairman Richard Tice said 20pc tax relief on all private healthcare could permanently ease the pressure on the NHS.

Kristian Niemietz, of the Institute of Economic Affairs, a think tank, said: Tax relief for private health insurance is in principle the right idea, and the experience of Australia, which has had such a tax relief system for many decades, has been broadly positive. But the devil is in the details.

If somebody opts out of aspects of NHS care, and thereby saves the taxpayer money, it is only fair for them to get a tax refund broadly equivalent to those cost savings. This could take pressure off the NHS and stimulate the growth of a competitive private healthcare sector.

But there is also a danger of people continuing to use almost as much NHS care as before, and using private health insurance to fund additional, luxury services. In such a case, tax relief for private health insurance would mostly be an unjustifiable middle-class subsidy.

A $6bn tax break

Like the UK, Australia relies on general taxation to fund free public healthcare. But its private sector makes up a far bigger share of the healthcare system than it does in this country.

This hybrid model is partly the result of an ideological clash between the centre-right Liberal Party, who want a smaller state and lower taxes, and the Labour party, who have fought to expand public services.

But the system seems to be working relatively well for Australia. The share of GDP attributed to healthcare in the country was 9.6pc in 2022, compared to 11.3pc in the UK.

Yet it has one of the lowest rates of avoidable mortality in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development  with fewer deaths of treatable conditions per 100,000 people than the UK, France or Sweden.

More than half of Australians have private health insurance. This is partly due to strong encouragement from the government.

Individuals earning less than $151,000 (119,000) a year (from July 2024 onwards) can claim tax rebates to reduce the cost of their health insurance.

The rebate is higher if you are older and also if you earn less. For example, an under-65 earning less than $97,000 could claim 24.6pc. However, this would go up to 32.8pc if they were aged 70 or over.

Those eligible can either claim their rebate as a reduction on their premium, meaning they pay less upfront to their insurer, or as tax relief from filing their annual tax return  something most Australians are required to do every year.

The average premium for health insurance is $160 a month, meaning rebates could save people around $500 per year.

If you earn over $97,000 and do not have insurance, then you pay a Medicare levy surcharge of between 1pc and 1.5pc, which helps fund the public health system.

But the tax rebates dont come cheap. The cost of subsiding private health insurance has risen from $1bn in its first year in 1999 to around $6bn today.

Despite this, a review by consultants Finity, commissioned by the Australian government department of health and aged care, recently concluded that the rebates should be kept because the cost of additional claims made in the public sector would be greater than the savings made from scrapping the tax relief.

The authors wrote: Removing the PHI [private health insurance] rebate entirely would result in a worse overall outcome for the sustainability of Australias health system. We estimate the short-term impact would be a 10pc reduction in the number of people covered by PHI, and a reduction in hospital claims funded by PHI of $2.3bn-$3.1bn per year

But not everyone agrees. As the tax relief has become more expensive, more Australians have questioned whether it is the best use of taxpayers money.

Yuting Zhang, a professor of health economics of the University of Melbourne, said the main advantage of the rebate is it helps those who cannot afford private health insurance.

However, private coverage remains out of reach for many low-income people  and there is also little evidence that it does relieve pressure on the public system, Professor Zhang said.

Surgeons spending more time in private hospitals means less time in the public system.

Reducing pressure on the NHS?

In January 1989, the Conservative government published a white paper on NHS reform, which included the introduction of tax relief on private health insurance for the elderly.

Kenneth Clarke, secretary of state, argued at the time that it would reduce the pressure on the NHS from the very age group most likely to require elective surgery, freeing resources for those who need it most.

The new relief came into effect in April 1990 and was immediately met with criticism from the left, who argued it would mainly save money for those who already had private health insurance.

Lord Stallard, formerly a Labour MP, said: In order to benefit from the proposals you would have to retire both healthy and wealthy.

In the end, the policy was around for only seven years before Mr Brown scrapped it. One of his main justifications was that it had failed to achieve its original purpose of funnelling more people into the private sector.

Between 1990 and the year the relief was axed, the number of individuals covered by private health insurance had increased from only 500,000 to 550,000. But the cost had gone up from 40m to over 100m per year.

In addition, research carried out by the Institute for Fiscal Studies in 2001 found that the savings the Government made by scrapping the tax break outweighed the costs of more individuals returning to the NHS. The think tank estimated that 4,000 individuals gave up private health insurance due to the abolition of the tax relief.

A key argument for tax breaks on private health insurance is that they will help free up NHS capacity. But these figures cast doubt on that theory.

Health experts also warn that more people going private, rather than easing pressure on the NHS, could do the exact opposite.

Sally Gainsbury, of the Nuffield Trust, said the think tank is deeply sceptical that increased use of private services reduces the burden on the public sector.

There are a number of reasons why not, she said.

Both private providers and NHS are fishing in the same pool, she said. That will detract the availability of staff in the NHS  and this is its biggest issue. If theres more work in the private sector, there is likely to be a knock-on effect for the NHS and increased price pressure.

In addition, people often remain reliant on a combination of private and NHS healthcare even after taking out insurance.

After all, private medical insurance does not cover all conditions. It does not usually cover the treatment of pre-existing conditions or chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes.

And if you need emergency care, you are more likely to find yourself in an accident and emergency department than a private urgent care centre.

This means it is unusual for people to remove themselves entirely from the state system  making it harder to justify paying less tax for its upkeep.

A tax break would be taking income for public services that is needed for the NHS, said Ms Gainsbury. Cash currently for public spending would be used to allow a small proportion of people to jump NHS queues.

A better use of that money, she continued, would be to spend it directly on the NHS.

The answer is not to bring more people into the private sector  its getting NHS capacity up so people dont have to go private.

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Bob Moses, who helped register Black residents to vote in Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement, believed civil rights went beyond the ballot box. To Moses, who was a teacher as well as an activist, math literacy is a civil right: a requirement to earning a living wage in modern society. In 1982, he founded the Algebra Project to ensure that students at the bottom get the math literacy they need.

As a researcher who studies ways to improve the math experiences of students, I believe a new approach that expands access to algebra may help more students get the math literacy Moses, who died in 2021, viewed as so important. Its a goal districts have long been struggling to meet.

Efforts to improve student achievement in algebra have been taking place for decades. Unfortunately, the math pipeline in the United States is fraught with persistent opportunity gaps. According to the Nations Report Card  a congressionally mandated project administered by the Department of Education  in 2022 only 29% of U.S. fourth graders and 20% of U.S. eighth graders were proficient in math. Low-income students, students of color and multilingual learners, who tend to have lower scores on math assessments, often do not have the same access as others to qualified teachers, high-quality curriculum and well-resourced classrooms.

A new approach

The Dallas Independent School District  or Dallas ISD  is gaining national attention for increasing opportunities to learn by raising expectations for all students. Following in the footsteps of more than 60 districts in the state of Washington, in 2019 the Dallas ISD implemented an innovative approach of having students be automatically enrolled rather than opt in to honors math in middle school.

Under an opt-in policy, students need a parent or teacher recommendation to take honors math in middle school and Algebra 1 in eighth grade. That policy led both to low enrollment and very little diversity in honors math. Some parents, especially those who are Black or Latino, were not aware how to enroll their students in advanced classes due to a lack of communication in many districts.

In addition, implicit bias, which exists in all demographic groups, may influence teachers perceptions of the behavior and academic potential of students, and therefore their subsequent recommendations. Public school teachers in the U.S. are far less racially and ethnically diverse than the students they serve.

Dallas ISDs policy overhaul aimed to foster inclusivity and bridge educational gaps among students. Through this initiative, every middle school student, regardless of background, was enrolled in honors math, the pathway that leads to taking Algebra 1 in eighth grade, unless they opted out.

Flipping the switch from opt-in to opt-out led to a dramatic increase in the number of Black and Latino learners, who constitute the majority of Dallas students. And the districts overall math scores remained steady. About 60% of Dallas ISD eighth graders are now taking Algebra 1, triple the prior level. Moreover, more than 90% are passing the state exam.

Civil rights activist Bob Moses believed math literacy was critical for students to be able to make a living. Robert Elfstrom/Villon Films via Getty Images

Efforts spread

Other cities are taking notice of the effects of Dallas ISDs shifting policy. The San Francisco Unified School District, for example, announced plans in February 2024 to implement Algebra 1 in eighth grade in all schools by the 2026-27 school year.

In fall 2024, the district will pilot three programs to offer Algebra 1 in eighth grade. The pilots range from an opt-out program for all eighth graders  with extra support for students who are not proficient  to a program that automatically enrolls proficient students in Algebra 1, offered as an extra math class during the school day. Students who are not proficient can choose to opt in.

Nationwide, however, districts that enroll all students in Algebra 1 and allow them to opt out are still in the minority. And some stopped offering eighth grade Algebra 1 entirely, leaving students with only pre-algebra classes. Cambridge, Massachusetts  the city in which Bob Moses founded the Algebra Project  is among them.

Equity concerns linger

Between 2017 and 2019, district leaders in the Cambridge Public Schools phased out the practice of placing middle school students into accelerated or grade-level math classes. Few middle schools in the district now offer Algebra 1 in eighth grade.

The policy shift, designed to improve overall educational outcomes, was driven by concerns over significant racial disparities in advanced math enrollment in high school. Completion of Algebra 1 in eighth grade allows students to climb the math ladder to more difficult classes, like calculus, in high school. In Cambridge, the students who took eighth grade Algebra 1 were primarily white and Asian; Black and Latino students enrolled, for the most part, in grade-level math.

Some families and educators contend that the districts decision made access to advanced math classes even more inequitable. Now, advanced math in high school is more likely to be restricted to students whose parents can afford to help them prepare with private lessons, after-school programs or private schooling, they said.

While the district has tried to improve access to advanced math in high school by offering a free online summer program for incoming ninth graders, achievement gaps have remained persistently wide.

Perhaps striking a balance between top-down policy and bottom-up support will help schools across the U.S. realize the vision Moses dreamed of in 1982 when he founded the Algebra Project: That in the 21st century every child has a civil right to secure math literacy  the ability to read, write and reason with the symbol systems of mathematics.

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: Liza Bondurant, Mississippi State University

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Liza Bondurant does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
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Last Friday a story we featured on our site and called attention to in our email newsletter was replaced by an Editors Note that stated simply that we removed the article while the newsgathering process used to produce it is reviewed.

The piece, by a States Newsroom reporter, described an online meeting of a national group dedicated to pursuing voter fraud, at which Wisconsin Assembly Campaigns and Elections Committee Chair Rep. Scott Krug (R-Nekoosa) laid out his plan to search out and purge noncitizens from Wisconsins voter rolls.

Shortly after we posted the story, a representative from the Election Integrity Network sent us an email demanding an immediate retraction.

The group did not challenge any of the facts in the story. But it objected to the reporter joining the call, noting that no media are ever allowed on our calls and that their calls are off the record and no notes or comments are to be uploaded in any public space.

States Newsrooms national editors and Washington Bureau chief agreed that participating in the call without identifying himself as a reporter violated our ethics policy, which states: Our journalists will never misrepresent themselves to get an interview or story. We will tell all sources if we are taping an interview. We do not use hidden cameras, go undercover or pay for interviews.

We took the story down but did not write a retraction.

It is painful to have to take a story down  all the more so in this case, which involves reporting that goes to the heart of the current battle for the future of democracy in our state and the nation. But our ethics policy and our commitment to admitting when we mess up are part of our larger commitment to accuracy, transparency and our relationship of trust with our readers. We are not an opposition research organization or a hit team. We strive to uphold the highest standards of journalism.

This might not satisfy the Election Integrity Network, whose executive director Kerri Toloczko wrote in her letter demanding a retraction, for the record, we are not election deniers. Weve never denied there are elections.

In fact, the term election deniers accurately describes the Election Integrity Network that, The New York Times has reported, is recruiting election conspiracists into an organized cavalry of activists monitoring elections. Cleta Mitchell, the groups founder, is one of former President Donald Trumps lawyers who pushed false claims of voter fraud to argue that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump. Now she is working to undermine confidence in the next election.

The only way they win is to cheat, she said of Democrats, according to The Times piece.

Noncitizen voting, which has been shown to be negligible in reviews in other states, is one of the issues the Trump campaign is preparing to seize on in Wisconsin to challenge the 2024 election results as cheating if they dont go Trumps way.

Krugs quest to get the state Department of Transportation to give him noncitizen drivers records to compare to voter lists in order to ferret out illegitimate voters, even if it doesnt succeed, could lay the groundwork for a future lawsuit challenging Wisconsins election results. Thats a big deal in a state with the narrowest of margins in recent elections.

In addition to raising doubts in advance about the legitimacy of election results and helping set the stage for another Jan. 6 insurrection, the noncitizen voting issue is worrying because it focuses not on any actual, reported problem but instead on suspicion and resentment against immigrants.

The idea that immigrants are trying to steal U.S. elections is an insidious smear.

Wisconsin already denies drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants. The people targeted in a search for noncitizen drivers are immigrants who are legal residents like those with green cards. Voting as a noncitizen is a felony. The idea that the workers and permanent residents who have managed to achieve the security of legal status would risk it all to cast illegal votes is preposterous.

As Lee Snodgrass (D-Appleton) put it at a hearing on the issue in May: Im trying to wrap my brain around what people think the motivation would be for a noncitizen to go through an enormous amount of hassle to actively commit a felony to vote in an election thats going to end up putting them in prison or be deported.

Its disappointing to see Krug take up the issue, let alone promote it to a group of election deniers. Since becoming chair of the Assembly elections committee, he has built a reputation as a low-key, bipartisan problem-solver, in stark contrast to his predecessor, Rep. Janel Brandtjen (R-Menomonee Falls), one of the Legislatures most outspoken election deniers and a proponent of off-the-wall conspiracy theories.

One of the missed opportunities in the piece we removed from our site was the chance to interview Krug, who has made himself accessible to the press.

Examiner reporter Henry Redman followed up with him this week, and Krug insisted that hes open to learning that there isnt actually a problem with noncitizen voting. My whole goal is if theres something there I want to show it, he told Redman. If theres not something there, I want to show it. Some people say its not an issue, I always tell people, what does it hurt to take all the data and say if it did happen or didnt happen? It is equally as valuable to me to disprove something as it is to prove something.

Its unclear if Krug will even get the records hes seeking. He told Redman he is making progress with his effort to get the noncitizen drivers database from the DOT. But there is reason to be skeptical that the agency will be willing to risk the heavy penalties for violating the Federal Driver Privacy Protection Act it lays out on its own website.

We will continue to follow the story.

Toloczko of the Election Integrity Network did not respond to an email asking why a meeting with a legislator about a public policy proposal was off the record in the first place.

But Krug told Redman he wasnt the one who challenged the article we took down. He had made all his points in a public forum already anyway, he said. His main objection was that the reporter didnt even call for a comment.

Im glad we could fix that.

The post Why we removed a story on election integrity in Wisconsin from our site appeared first on Wisconsin Examiner.
Becka Robbins, events manager at Fabulosa Books in the Castro District of San Francisco, picks out books to fill a shipment for the Books Not Bans program, which sends LGBTQ+ books to queer-friendly groups and organizations in parts of the country where they are censored. (Loren Elliott / For The Times)

Lots of out-of-town visitors to Fabulosa Books in San Francisco react emotionally when they see what Becka Robbins calls the "Big Gay Wall"  which features a stack of shelves brimming with LGBTQ+ titles.

But Robbins, the store's events manager, remembers the response of a 15-year-old Ohio boy the best.

"Wait a minute! Is every single book on this whole wall gay?" the teen asked after walking in from Castro Street last year.

When Robbins said they were, the boy went quiet, then smiled back at her. "Can I hug you?" he asked.

Fabulosa Books in the Castro District. (Loren Elliott / For The Times)

The moment was "super moving and sweet," Robbins said, but also "kind of terrible"  a reminder, in one of America's queerest neighborhoods, that LGBTQ+-affirming books are still hard to come by for many young queer people in the U.S.

Robbins said she still thinks about the exchange when she's packing up boxes of LGBTQ+ books for shipment to Alabama or Idaho, Oklahoma or South Carolina, Texas or Florida as part of a grassroots effort she launched from Fabulosa last year called Books Not Bans.

The initiative is a West Coast counterpunch to the well-organized and rapidly growing effort by anti-LGBTQ+ activists and lawmakers in more conservative parts of the country to ban queer-friendly books from public schools and libraries.

Read more: Our Queerest Century

According to the American Library Assn., more than 4,200 book titles were targeted for censorship in 2023, representing a 92% increase in challenged titles at public libraries and an 11% increase at school libraries compared with the previous year. Nearly half of the titles have to do with the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people and people of color, the group found.

Emily Drabinski, the association's president, said librarians in smaller communities are being bombarded with ban requests, threatened if they don't comply and forced to remove books from shelves by zealous lawmakers eager to flex self-proclaimed moral authority.

The Castro District has long been a beacon of queer hope for the country, and this is one of the latest iterations. Fifty years have passed since San Francisco County Supervisor Harvey Milk  one of the nation's first out gay elected officials  started drumming up local political support for the gay community by giving speeches about gay boys in more rural parts of the country finding hope in the neighborhood's message of acceptance.

The need for such hope remains  as does San Francisco's instinct to fill it.

"They need more than books, obviously, but this is what we have," Robbins said. "This is a thing I can do that is concrete."

Customers shop at Fabulosa Books. (Loren Elliott / For The Times)

Books Not Bans operates with Fabulosa owner Alvin Orloff's blessing out of a closet in the bookstore. The nonprofit is heading into its second year, and its concept is simple.

Signage in Fabulosa talks up the program and solicits donations from customers, many of whom are transplants from more conservative parts of the country or visitors from such places.

Read more: This trans author toured red-state libraries. What she found might surprise you

Once enough money has been raised for a full box  usually about 20 books, worth about $400  Robbins finds a group she thinks might need it and reaches out. If the organization is interested, Robbins then works with its members to select titles that would best suit their needs, whether that's kids books, young adult books, guides for parents or anything else.

So far, Robbins has sent off 35 boxes, or about 700 books, she said. Recipients have included an LGBTQ+-affirming high school in Alabama, a Gay Straight Alliance in South Carolina, a drag queen story hour in Idaho, a graduate student working with queer elders in Oklahoma and a queer youth center in Florida.

Robbins packs a shipment for a Books Not Bans recipient. (Loren Elliott / For The Times)

Recipients have sent thank-you cards and other mementos of appreciation, Robbins said, though not all want attention. Some have faced death threats for their work.

Jason DeShazo  aka drag queen Momma Ashley Rose  recently received a box of books from Fabulosa for the Rose Dynasty Center, an LGBTQ+ safe space, health clinic and community center that DeShazo just opened in Lakeland, Fla.

DeShazo said he has been performing family-friendly drag story hours since long before they became the political lightning rod they are today. He believes deeply in the power and importance of books in the fight for queer acceptance. The intense hatred and discrimination he's experienced from anti-LGBTQ+ protesters recently has only solidified that belief, he said.

Read more: Queer people have shaped America. Why celebrating that fact protects kids

The books from Fabulosa are a big boost for the library he is trying to build at the center, he said, but they also send a powerful message about the bonds of the LGBTQ+ community  near and far.

"It gives me hope," DeShazo said. "It brings joy to think that there are people in other parts of the country who know what we're going through and are willing to support us, to make sure we can have that safe space for people."

So far, Books Not Bans has sent off 35 boxes, or about 700 books, across the country. (Loren Elliott / For The Times)

In San Francisco, queer acceptance is often taken for granted  including in the literary space. The San Francisco Public Library calls itself the "queerest library ever," has a dedicated queer collection at the main library's James C. Hormel LGBTQIA+ Center, features LGBTQ+ titles in all of its branches and hosts special events encouraging people to read LGBTQ+ and other banned books.

"We see our role as a place for representation and also for joy and goodness, so people can come in and see themselves represented," said Cristina Mitra, the Hormel Center's program manager.

But the picture is vastly different in other parts of the country.

"There is a lot of fear and trepidation," said Drabinski, of the library association. In addition to targeting queer-friendly books, she said, anti-LGBTQ+ activists are mounting "a pressure campaign to undermine trust in libraries and librarians."

Drabinski, who grew up in Idaho and is queer, said that books helped her understand herself in crucial ways, and that part of her mission is to make sure young people today have the same learning opportunities. She praised Fabulosa for being part of the same fight.

Read more: The 15 most banned books in America this school year

Robbins said she hopes that Books Not Bans continues to grow, but also that other queer institutions in places such as San Francisco find ways to connect with those in less accepting parts of the country  to see how they might help.

"A lot of folks in the LGBTQ community on the coast feel very, very confident that things are fine, but that's not what I'm hearing," she said. "It really matters to show up for each other."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
If we want to find a potential multi-bagger, often there are underlying trends that can provide clues. 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. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. In light of that, when we looked at Globe International (ASX:GLB) and its ROCE trend, we weren't exactly thrilled.

Return On Capital Employed (ROCE): What Is It?

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. The formula for this calculation on Globe International is:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.12 = AU$11m  (AU$129m - AU$39m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2023).

Thus, Globe International has an ROCE of 12%. In absolute terms, that's a satisfactory return, but compared to the Luxury industry average of 9.2% it's much better.

View our latest analysis for Globe International

roce

Historical performance is a great place to start when researching a stock so above you can see the gauge for Globe International's ROCE against it's prior returns. If you're interested in investigating Globe International's past further, check out this free graph covering Globe International's past earnings, revenue and cash flow.

What Does the ROCE Trend For Globe International Tell Us?

On the surface, the trend of ROCE at Globe International doesn't inspire confidence. To be more specific, ROCE has fallen from 21% over the last five years. And considering revenue has dropped while employing more capital, we'd be cautious. This could mean that the business is losing its competitive advantage or market share, because while more money is being put into ventures, it's actually producing a lower return - "less bang for their buck" per se.

The Bottom Line On Globe International's ROCE

We're a bit apprehensive about Globe International because despite more capital being deployed in the business, returns on that capital and sales have both fallen. The market must be rosy on the stock's future because even though the underlying trends aren't too encouraging, the stock has soared 145%. Regardless, we don't feel too comfortable with the fundamentals so we'd be steering clear of this stock for now.

If you want to know some of the risks facing Globe International we've found 3 warning signs (1 is potentially serious!) that you should be aware of before investing here.

While Globe International 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.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Why Sandy Hook Survivor Henry Terifay Has the Name of Slain Classmate Chase Tattooed on His Back (Exclusive)

"I try and remember him in a good way, not in a terrible way where I get sad"

Anjelica Jardiel; Courtesy Kowalski family Henry Terifay (left) and Sandy Hook shooting victim Chase Kowalski

Sandy Hook survivor Henry Terifay still thinks a lot about Chase Kowalski, who was one of his best friends at their elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut  until Chase was killed, along with 19 other students and six educators, in a mass shooting in December 2012. He was 7.

He was one of my closest friends. We hung out all the time, Terifay, now an 18-year-old graduating senior, tells PEOPLE in an interview as he and other survivors and new grads reflect on their lives now.

When he turned 17, Terifay says, he got Chase's name tattooed on his right shoulder: The design includes Chase's name in cursive, with a green heart for Sandy Hook remembrance at the end of the "e." (The [artist] did not even make me pay for it, Terifay says. He knew the family, actually.)

The tattoo is a tribute and a reminder of the toll of gun violence in America, which Terifay, as a member of the Jr. Newtown Action Alliance, has pushed to change.

"I don't want to hear, 'Our prayers are with you,' because unfortunately, your prayers don't really do anything for me," he says. "I just really want things to be different."

For more from surviving students and new grads and the parents of those who were killed, read this week's issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday.

Anjelica Jardiel Henry Terifay

Terifay says he got the tattoo of Chase's name on his shoulder "so that when I wrestle, it could show through my singlet. And in the yearbook, in the wrestling section, you can see a close-up picture of me and you can see his tattoo in it."

He sent that to Chases mother, Rebecca, who thanked him. He wouldn't have been in the yearbook, otherwise, Terifay says. She was like, 'I was afraid he wouldn't be in there, but I appreciate you. 

The first-grade classmates he lost in the mass shooting aren't ever far from mind, Terifay says. "I think about them all the time."

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.

Every time I get ready, I can see [Chase's] name up on my shoulder, Terifay says, adding, "I try and remember him in a good way, not in a terrible way where I get sad about it. I try and think about him in a positive way and just keep moving forward and remember him but not be sad about it.

Nearly 12 years later, he can recall the morning of the shooting and the excitement he felt at planning to make gingerbread houses with his class. "My mom [was] on the way," he says. "A couple parents are already there  and we hear these loud bangs."



He says he then heard the principal, Dawn Hochsprung, go on the loudspeaker system and though he doesn't remember what she said, "you can hear him [the shooter] go in there and shoot her and shoot the rest of the front office. You can hear the phone drop to the floor."

Related: Sandy Hook Survivors, Now 17 and 18, Reflect on Trauma While Growing Up and Their 'Happy-Sad' Graduation (Exclusive)

Terifay's teacher became "so protective and caring" as she led the students to cubbies to shelter in place, where they played games, he says.

One parent who had volunteered in his classroom to make gingerbread houses was an ex-Marine, he says. When the police knocked on the classroom door after the shooting was over, he remembers that father asking the officer to slide his ID under the door for confirmation.

"Then they line us up and they have us cover our eyes and walk out of the building," Terifay says. "I met my mom in the parking lot and I see her fully in tears. I've never seen her like that before and I haven't seen her like that since. I don't really want to see her like that again."

Rebecca Kowalski Chase Kowalski

Terifay's best friend now was a student in one of the two classrooms that was attacked, he says. "We've been best friends since then. it really could have been him, too. It's really crazy to think about how all of those people, we're going to graduate without them."

The main message Terifay, who plans to study communications at the University of Hartford, wants spread is that he doesn't want people to feel sorry for what he survived. He wants real, "commonsense" change to lessen the threat of more violence.

Related: Parents Who Lost Kids in Sandy Hook Share 'Bittersweet' Feelings About Survivors' Graduation (Exclusive)

He, like other young activists who have been motivated by living through mass shootings, is calling for more background checks, restrictions on assault-style weapons and more.

"I don't want people to tell me, 'Oh, I'm so sorry. That was terrible and you're so strong,' " he says. "I don't want to hear, 'I'm sorry.' I just want things to be done. We say it all the time, but it doesn't change ever. I'm sure there'll be another school shooting tomorrow or the day after that, which is terrible."



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
Today, we bring you the news from Ukraine, continuing analysing Vladimir Putins state visit to North Korea and we talk to Security Analyst Jimmy Rushton in Kyiv on the situation on the front line and Ukrainian strategy for the year ahead.

Listen to Ukraine: the Latest, The Telegraphs daily podcast, using the audio player at the top of this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite podcast app.

War in Ukraine is reshaping our world. Every weekday The Telegraphs top journalists analyse the invasion from all angles - military, humanitarian, political, economic, historical - and tell you what you need to know to stay updated.

With over 70 million listens, our Ukraine: The Latest podcast is your go-to source for all the latest analysis, live reaction and correspondents reporting on the ground. We have been broadcasting ever since the full-scale invasion began.

Ukraine: The Latests regular contributors are:

David Knowles

David is Head of Audio Development at The Telegraph, where he has worked for over three years. He has reported from across Ukraine during the full-scale invasion.

Dominic Nicholls

Dom is Associate Editor (Defence) at The Telegraph, having joined in 2018. He previously served for 23 years in the British Army, in tank and helicopter units. He had operational deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan and Northern Ireland.

Francis Dearnley

Francis is Assistant Comment Editor at The Telegraph. Prior to working as a journalist, he was chief of staff to the Chair of the Prime Ministers Policy Board at the Houses of Parliament in London. He studied History at Cambridge University and on the podcast explores how the past shines a light on the latest diplomatic, political, and strategic developments.

They are also regularly joined by Telegraph reporters and correspondents around the world, including Joe Barnes (Brussels Correspondent), James Kilner, (Foreign Correspondent and Editor of the Central Asia & the South Caucasus Bulletin), Sophia Yan (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Roland Oliphant (Senior Foreign Correspondent), Colin Freeman (Foreign Correspondent), Danielle Sheridan (Defence Editor), and Tony Diver (US Editor).

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Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano (R) in a January 2024 file photo from the State House. Photo by Danielle E. Gaines.

A decade of conflict and tension between Republican county executives and the Republican-dominated Wicomico County Council came to a boil Tuesday, as the council voted 5-2 for a ballot referendum asking voters to amend the countys charter to do away with the elected executive  just two decades after that office was created.

Four Republicans and one Democrat supported the move that  if ratified at the ballot box in November  would restore Wicomico County to a government in which the county council appoints a county manager. One Republican and one Democrat voted against the referendum.

Two nearby Eastern Shore counties, Dorchester and Talbot, currently utilize the county manager structure  under which Wicomico also was governed until voters decided in 2004 to move to an elected council/elected executive form of charter government. Wicomico  the Eastern Shores second most populous county, which includes rapidly growing Salisbury  elected its first executive in 2006.

Tuesdays council vote sparked a furious reaction from County Executive Julie Giordano, a Republican who took office in December 2022, the third elected executive.

Im disappointed in five of you not surprised, but disappointed, Giordano, a public school teacher prior to running for executive, scolded the council during the public comment period. You continually make decisions to undermine my office and hurt the morale of the employees and stop the progress of our county.

Im letting you know for the next five months, Im going to be doing everything to ensure that this ballot initiative fails, because we cannot go backwards, she vowed.

Her comments came two weeks after a crowded public hearing on the proposed referendum, in which Giordano  a conservative activist prior to being elected to public office  vowed to come after her opponents if they succeeded in doing away with the executive. If enacted, the measure would do away with the office at the conclusion of Giordanos current term, in late 2026.

If for some reason this passes in November, I will go back to teaching in 2026, but I will run for county council along with a slate, and I will win  because no one works harder than I do, she told the council at the June 4 hearing to cheers from her supporters in the room.

The warfare between Giordano and the Republican-majority council echoes recent intraparty strains elsewhere along the Chesapeake Bay. In Cecil County, on the Upper Shore, Executive Danielle Hornberger was ousted last month following an acrimonious Republican primary. Just across the Susquehanna River, Harford County Republican Executive Bob Cassilly has been at odds with members of the county council on issues ranging from budget priorities to access to financial information since he took office at the end of 2022.

In addition to Wicomico, Cecil and Harford, a half-dozen other Maryland counties  Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery and Prince Georges  are currently governed by elected executives and councils. The remaining dozen counties in the state are run by boards of commissioners.

At Tuesdays Wicomico council session, the tense relationship between Giordano and fellow Republican John Cannon  the councils president for much of the last decade  was on display.

I have found that the executive/legislative form of government in Wicomico County doesnt seem to be an effective means by which to govern. I have found over the years that its not as efficient, not as cost effective as the county council/county manager structure, said Cannon, a four-term council member who also frequently butted heads with one of Giordanos predecessors, Republican County Executive Bob Culver, who died of cancer in July 2020 after six years in office.

Just prior to the vote, Cannon added, I actually have felt the large majority of time I personally spend  and have spent before with past prior executives  is simply on measures that are countermanding measures the executive may have taken.

At the public comment session after the vote, Giordano came back swinging, telling Cannon that, three weeks after she assumed office, You scheduled a meeting to deliver a letter to me calling me a potential criminal, accusing me of misappropriating funds three weeks into office. Of course, it was proven wrong, and our county attorney said no. Thats how our professional relationship started.

The Wicomico County Council in a September 2023 file photo. Photo by Josh Kurtz.

Another Republican, five-term Councilmember Joe Holloway, did not mince words in voicing support for the referendum  a proposal also supported by Cannon, Republican Councilmembers Shane Baker and Jeff Merritt and Democrat Shanie Shields.

Noting that the county had been governed by a board of commissioners or council/manager form of government for 139 years prior to the creation of an elected executives post 20 years ago, Holloway said: Im sure there were some bumps in the road during that time. But we never saw the spitefulness, the hatefulness, the splitting of government, the name calling  the things that weve seen since weve had an executive form of government.

He proceeded to cite a lengthy list of items in which he said the executives office had violated the county charter or local statutes and policies, or had failed to seek consent or inform the council of numerous actions.

Mr. Holloway, you inspired me. I made my own list, Giordano later shot back. Waving a sheaf of papers that she later delivered to a table in front of the council, she declared, These are all the inappropriate actions taken by the council.

The two councilmembers who opposed advancing the referendum were Republican James Winn  elected on a slate of candidates with Giordano in 2022, and seen as her one consistent ally on the council  and Democrat Joshua Hastings.

I think a county executive is generally a good thing [in order] to have checks and balances, but I think we need to continue to further clarify what makes a successful position, said Hastings, who advocated increasing the minimum qualifications for those seeking the office and improving its functioning rather than doing away with it.

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Giordanos allies, while repeatedly accusing the council of a power grab at the hearing earlier this month, also questioned putting it on the ballot barely two decades after it was approved by voters. But Merritt noted Tuesday that an estimated 40% of the current bloc of registered voters had not been county residents or were too young to vote when the question was first asked.

I think they deserve another chance to voice their opinion, he said.

The 2004 vote in favor of an elected Wicomico County executive came four years after a petition drive had put a proposed revenue cap on the ballot, which passed  largely in response to a 23% property tax increase imposed by the county council after years of seeking to avoid increases in the tax rate.

Ironically, it was the county council at that time  partly in response to passage of the revenue cap  that moved to put a referendum creating a county executive office. Two decades ago, an elected executive was viewed by some as having the potential to ensure a system of checks and balances in the wake of the large tax increase, while providing a clearer leadership model for a growing county.

But it didnt take long for conflict to emerge between the council and an elected executive in Wicomico County.

Im not sure that the county council  made up of many men and women over these last 18 years  has ever fully gotten comfortable with having this shared governance role, said Mike Dunn, longtime president and CEO of the Greater Salisbury Committee, whose membership includes many Wicomico businesses.

In a recent interview, Dunn said that, Regardless of who the county executive is  theres always been a little bit of tension. And  sometimes theres been a lot of tension.

Such tensions were in evidence prior to Culvers death four years ago, as he and Cannon clashed on several occasions over whether the charter had been followed in submitting executive appointments to the council for confirmation. After a two-month standoff over the appointment of a replacement for Culver in late summer 2020, the council named the countys then-director of administration, John Psota, as acting county executive.

Psota was narrowly defeated in the 2022 Republican primary by Giordano, who went on to win the seat in November  at which point, the Republican v. Republican battles resumed.

A view of the Wicomico County government building in Salisbury. Photo by Bryan P. Sears.

Barely six months into office, when the council refused to consider two of Giordanos nominees  contending that she had not properly submitted the appointments under provisions of the charter  Giordano sued. After a local court ruled in her favor late last year, the council appealed; the matter is pending before the Maryland Appellate Court.

Such episodes have prompted questions about whether the wording of parts of the county charter may have contributed to the ongoing conflict. Dunn, who chaired a 15-member charter review committee in 2021, recalled: We went chronologically through the charter, line by line. Often, throughout the course of our deliberation, we would as a group say, OK now, is this a problem in this section of the charter, because we know it has been in the public eye of late as a point of contention, or is this a personality problem?

Asked if the group had reached any conclusions as to whether the wording of some charter provisions  or politics  were at the root of the problem, Dunn said: At the end of the day, I think we kind of accepted that theres messiness in government, and wed do what we can to fix what we think needs correcting  but that even as good as we might do, theres going to be conflict. Theres only so much a charter can do to fix the messiness.

Such messiness may also reflect the national Republican Party divide between the upstart MAGA wing associated with Donald Trump and the more traditional party establishment, several sources suggested. While there appears to be little ideological difference between Giordano and the councils Republican majority, her political rise has come as a member of the Wicomico partys MAGA wing  which has tended to view veteran councilmembers such as Cannon and Holloway warily as members of the party establishment.

Paradoxically, the battles between Giordano and the council over the future of the executive office have not prevented the two sides from cooperating on a number of major economic development initiatives in the county in recent months. These range from establishment of a sanitary commission (Wicomico had been the only remaining county in the state without a sanitary commission or wastewater authority) to ending the county-run liquor monopoly and moving the central library to another location to make way for erection of a performing arts center in downtown Salisbury.

These are significant, historic things that have happened in the last two to three months. I dont know of anything that hasnt happened as a result of all this disputing, Dunn said. Despite all of this stuff, there is evidence of [the council and executive] getting the work done.

The post Wicomico County Council puts referendum on ballot to do away with county executives office appeared first on Maryland Matters.
June 19 (UPI) -- In three weeks, NATO will celebrate its 75th anniversary in Washington, commemorating the signing of the Washington Treaty that created the alliance on April 4th, 1949. During these years, the alliance arguably has been history's most successful, having won the Cold War peacefully against the Soviet Union, the raison d'etre for its establishment.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, NATO made several transformations responding to the changing international environments. In 2001, NATO went to war for the first time: not to resist a Soviet invasion but instead, the alliance found itself in distant Afghanistan fighting in support of the United States after the attacks of September 11th. NATO's founding fathers probably would have been in disbelief having learned of this first and only invocation of Article 5 -- the alliance's centerpiece that "an attack against one shall be an attack against all."

Today, the specter of the Soviet Union is back. NATO now confronts a Russian aggressor following the country's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine in 2022. NATO's coherence and unity have been greatly strengthened by Moscow's belligerence. NATO has rallied to support Ukraine. However, less visible gaps and tensions lurk between both sides of the Atlantic and the United States and its thirty European allies. Canada of course is not in Europe.

Of the least visible and perhaps most significant are the economic disparities between America and its allies. U.S. GDP is about $25 trillion with a population of about 340 million. Europe and Canada have a total GDP of $20 trillion and 620 million citizens. But the U.S. economy is miles ahead of the rest of NATO's with little sign of that gap closing for the foreseeable future.

Why is this important? For most of its history, the United States has been pleading or urging the allies to spend more on defense. Currently, 23 of 32 members spend the minimum of 2% of GDP on defense. The US spends just over 3%.

Former president Donald Trump has repeatedly demanded the allies spend more on defense, questioning if the United States would aid those allies not paying their fair share if war arose. Most European members of the alliance worry or fear how Trump would react if re-elected president, especially given his positive and even admiring views of Vladimir Putin.

Of those U.S. European ambassadors with whom I have spoken, Trump and NATO is a leading topic of conversation. And this is not a casual issue. Given his past record and so-called America First policies, Trump has given no guarantees of absolute support for NATO as President Joe Biden has.

Unfortunately, percent of GDP spent on defense has become a political measure of commitment to the alliance. Rationally, that does not make sense. Total NATO GDP is about $45 trillion. Its combined population is about 950 million. NATO spends a total of about $1.3 trillion on defense (the United States about $890 billion).

Russian GDP is about $2.3 trillion with a shrinking population of about 143 million. Russia spends about $100 billion on defense and using purchasing power, it may be a bit more. Statistically, there are no comparisons -- NATO spends ten times more on defense than Russia.

Similarly, with the exception of non-strategic or tactical nuclear weapons, in every category of weapons from troops to tanks, fighter aircraft, ships and artillery, Russia is overwhelmed by NATO. Further, Russia has taken staggering losses in Ukraine that by some estimates are in excess of 500,000 casualties to its forces. Yet, politics are forcing NATO to spend more on defense.

Given the huge economic disparities between both sides of the Atlantic, it is more difficult for these European members to increase defense spending substantially, even at 1% of GDP. And in the United States, while the drumbeat for more defense spending is building, a deficit approaching $35 trillion surely will impose some limits on increases given that social program costs are also rapidly escalating.

What can be done? Given the staggering disparities between NATO and Russia in terms of measures of defense, surely current resources must be more than sufficient. Using the Ukraine War as a measure for example, if NATO were to adopt a strategy such as a Porcupine Defense in which the aim was to so disrupt any initial attack to make it too costly, that would be more affordable and effective. This summit is the place to do that.

The question is whether NATO will conduct this critical self-examination or just call for more spending that may not solve these issues.

Harlan Ullman is UPI's Arnaud de Borchgrave Distinguished Columnist, a senior adviser at Washington's Atlantic Council, the prime author of "shock and awe" and author of "The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large." Follow him @harlankullman. The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.
A firefighter carries a hose while battling the Point Fire along West Dry Creek Rd. in Healdsburg, Calif. on Sunday, June 16, 2024. | Noah Berger

Hot temperatures and dry conditions have brought on wildfires in several states.

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the areas burned by wildfires have increased since the 1980s, particularly during the spring and summer months. If not contained, wildfires have the potential to harm property, livelihoods, and human health.

Heres what you should know about recent wildfire reports.

Where have there been wildfires?

A village on a New Mexico tribal reservation is being threatened by two quickly moving wildfires, according to CNN. George Ducker, a New Mexico Forestry spokesperson, told CNN that 5,000 residents were forced to evacuate as smoke filled the sky.

As of early Tuesday, the South Fork Fire has consumed over 13,000 acres with zero percent containment, per the Village of Ruidoso. Officials are now concerned that wind gusts could push the fire further east. An additional blaze, the Salt Fire, is also threatening the area.

Together, the fires are like a pair of tongs, and Ruidoso is in the middle, Ducker told CNN.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham of New Mexico said in a statement: I strongly urge residents of Ruidoso and the surrounding areas to remain calm and heed official instructions to help minimize risk.

New Mexico isnt the only state thats been dealing with fires. According to CBS News, several wildfires broke out over the weekend  14 active blazes of at least 10 acres or more.

The Post Fire, burning northwest of Los Angeles, has spread to more than 15,000 acres. Wind gusts have caused the fires to grow substantially.

In Duchesne County, Utah, a wildfire started on Monday afternoon, per ABC4 Utah. Officials have said the fire isnt a threat to any buildings right now.

How to stay safe during wildfires

If theres a wildfire near the area, stay in the loop with local news and reports. Local authorities will let you know if you need to evacuate. According to the American Red Cross, there are some ways to stay safe if a fire begins.

Be prepared to evacuate. Gather the supplies you need and make an escape plan for where to go. Have food, medicine, water and other necessities ready.

Stay connected. Monitor weather conditions and make sure your contact information is up to date. Have backup chargers and batteries ready.

Learn first aid. Knowing CPR and wildlife safety skills may mean the difference between life and death.

Stay healthy. Take care of yourself and your family members by eating healthy food and staying hydrated.
At first glance, the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Vidal v. Elster, also known as the Trump Too Small case, looks like a mess. Despite a unanimous ruling, there were four separate opinions positing different reasoning, some of which were joined only in certain parts by other justices. One could use a large wall and several colors of string to document the nuances of each justices perspective. Fortunately, wading this deep into the opinion is unnecessary. This would be like attempting to map each rivulet on the floor of the Amazon River. The river will never run that low, so the precise depth of each channel doesnt matter for all but the most obsessed.

This case, despite the superficially varied opinions, can be recast as a united singular proposition of political free speech law: One cant corner the market on disparaging a named politician.

Unfortunately, the case does not speak in such direct terms about political speech. Rather, it distorts through a clouded trademark lens. The cloudiness is a result of a battle of methods of constitutional interpretation that dont matter here since they all reach the same result.

Generally, the case discusses the commercial speech value of a slogan, and the use of another persons name, to conclude that a third party isnt permitted to trade on the name of another. The opinion (or rather, all four opinions) uses an unnecessarily complex approach to reach the simplified/unified holding that trademarks cannot be used to restrict political speech.

Trump Too Small, which Steve Elster, a California attorney and political activist, sought to trademark along with an associated hand gesture, is an example of a political slogan. It prompts a smirk in all but the most prudish. Its double entendre is designed to convey messages about former President Donald Trumps psychology and his physiology. Messages like this have nothing to do with branding, unlike familiar slogans such as Im a Pepper, Just Do It, and Im Lovin It. It wasnt designed to identify Elsters product line; it was meant as a political statement.

Therein lies the core of the case. If you are an opponent of Trump, then you should not want Elster to be able to trademark the anti-Trump slogan because youd need to get Elsters permission to use it. Intellectual property rights are a government-conveyed monopoly that makes it more expensive, and potentially impossible, for others to use those wordsin this instance, words that convey a political message. Because Elster would control the phrase, he could police who uses it and how much they would have to pay him to do so. Restricting use is the entire point of a trademark.

Take for instance, Trumps use of Make America Great Again as his slogan. After he began using it, Nashville radio personality Bobby Bones registered a trademark on the slogan and claimed to have extorted a charitable donation from Trump, then tweeted Have your slogan back after Trump made a donation. Bones was clearly trolling Trump, both politically and in the intellectual property sense. We do not want a world where IP trolls rush to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, registering a trademark and preventing political actors from expressing themselves in potent terms anytime a politician turns a phrase, regardless of the purpose.

Elsters attempted monopolization of Trump Too Small had nothing to do with branding, and everything to do with politics. It wasnt about product control, identification, or marketing by Elster. It was about criticizing Trump as a person.

Imagine if Trump had thought to trademark Trump Too Small, or any slogan or phrase he could envision portraying him in a negative way, not for the purpose of using the phrase but to silence others from speaking ill of him. Trademark registration is low-cost and trolling could be used to prevent an opponent from saying harmful thingsat least long enough to win an election. Why not catch and kill harmful expressions in addition to harmful stories in tabloids? This was the real danger lurking in this case.

At the opposite end of the political spectrum, no one should be able to prevent the political use of the phrase Lets Go Brandoneven race car driver Brandon Brown, who many Americans would have never known existed had it not been for his name accidentally becoming a meme. Trademark registration should be limited to commercial purposes so as not to intentionally restrain political free speech.

So, let anyone who wishes declare that Trump is too small or voice their fake support for a middling NASCAR driver. This is America, damn it! And it is good the Supreme Court left it that wayeven if their respective voices couldnt say it in a more direct and singular way.

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.
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WFRV)  Officers arrested a western Wisconsin woman after she allegedly helped an attempted homicide suspect escape from authorities by hiding him in her backseat, and leaving the area.

According to the Eau Claire Police Department, 54-year-old Candace R. Rogers was arrested and is being held at the Eau Claire County Jail on a Harboring or Aiding Felons charge following an incident on June 11.

That Tuesday, investigators from the Madison Police Department contacted the Eau Claire PD requesting assistance in apprehending Jerome L. Jacobs Jr., 37, who authorities say is wanted in connection to an attempted homicide of two people.

Sheriff: Wisconsin man found with drugs in his car after a crash, arrested for 4th OWI

Madison PD officers believed Jacobs Jr. to be in the Eau Claire area and described the rental vehicle he was reportedly associated with. Shortly after, an Eau Claire County Sheriffs Deputy spotted the rental vehicle driving in the 900 block of Water Street.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Jacobs Jr. was then able to elude responding officers and deputies for a short distance before he reportedly abandoned the vehicle at a residence in the 200 block of 9th Avenue. The 37-year-old then fled to a wooded area, prompting an extensive search of the area that included drones, K9 tracking, and lockdowns of local businesses.

Wyoming tip leads to arrest of Wisconsin man on child pornography possession, sexual exploitation charges

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Jerome L. Jacobs Jr. (Wisconsin Department of Corrections)

During the time of the search, and unbeknownst to officers, Jacobs Jr. had reportedly fled to a residence in the 900 block of Water Street and allegedly met with Rogers. Authorities learned shortly after that Jacobs Jr. and Rogers reportedly knew one another.

Based on the investigation, officers say that Rogers helped Jacobs Jr. escape by allegedly hiding him in the backseat of her vehicle and driving him away from the area.

It was noted in the release that all of this took place within two minutes of the initial attempted traffic stop.

Green Bay PD warn of vehicle break-ins, release video of 3 people checking for unlocked doors

Authorities searched Rogers residence and she was later contacted and arrested for her alleged involvement in Jacobs Jr.s escape. Rogers is being held on a charge of Harboring or Aiding Felons.

Jacobs Jr. has not yet been located and authorities are asking local communities to remain vigilant and to contact their local agency with any information on Jacobs whereabouts. Those with relevant information can also contact the Madison Area Crime Stoppers at (608) 266-6014.

No additional information was provided. Local 5 will update this story when more details are released.

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.
HERNANDO, Miss.  A woman police say was behind the wheel of a vehicle that ran into an East Memphis yard, killing a construction worker and his brother, has been arrested.

Tracy Totty, 67, was arrested Tuesday by U.S. Marshals at a residence in Nucla, Colorado on charges of vehicular homicide-intoxication, vehicular homicide-reckless, and aggravated vehicular homicide.

On Sept. 29, 2022, roofer Elvin Nunez was unloading materials in the driveway of a house at White Station and Sequoia when a driver jumped the curb, killing Elvin and sending his brother Roberto Nunez to the hospital, according to his employer.

One roofer killed, another injured when driver plows into job site

Witnesses said the female driver was traveling at a high rate of speed when she lost control of her vehicle, and said she appeared to be impaired.

The driver missed the guardrail, a light pole, a tree, and went straight through the yard and struck him, Chris Whitten said at the time. Elvin and his brother, Roberto, were hit. I dont think they ever had a chance to move out of the way.

Elvin Nunez, who was from Honduras, left behind a wife and five children when he died. Roberto Nunez spent 42 days in the hospital and never regained consciousness before he died.

Woman wants to know why driver is free months after deadly crash

Of course, they tried to resuscitate him at the scene, but he had so many injuries. His leg was cut off his eye was poked out, his complete back of his cranial was crushed in. So she hit him, she hit them at 78 miles an hour, said Katina Nunez, Elvins wife.

Katina credits her tireless efforts for the arrest of her husbands accused killer.

You gotta do something. My kids cant sleep my kids cant have a life. This is our daughter, shes nine years old. She asks me all the time what life would be like if Daddy was still here, Katina said.

An arrest warrant was issued for Totty in December 2023.

All the hours Ive cried all the times Ive begged, Katina said. It wont bring him back, but it may stop the next family from suffering the way that we have.

Elvins children are now left with only memories.

I miss him. I love him and I wish he was here, said Noah Glosson.

Elvins daughter Ivy says she can still listen to his voice inside her teddy bear.

I love you freckle face, Elvins recorded voice says in the teddy bear.

He was the best father I could ever wish for. I really miss him. I feel like we need Justice because he did not deserve to die so soon, said Ivy Nunez.

Records show Totty had a previous charge of reckless driving and driving under the influence of intoxication/drugs in 2007. She spent a total of 11 months and 28 days on probation.

Totty is awaiting extradition back to Tennessee, the U.S. Marshals Service 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 WREG.com.
Woman accuses luxury real estate broker Tal Alexander and his brother of raping her while their third brother watched

Woman accuses luxury real estate broker Tal Alexander and his brother of raping her while their third brother watched

A woman accused broker Tal Alexander and his brother Alon of raping her in 2012.

In a lawsuit, the woman states that a third brother, Oren Alexander, watched the rape.

Two other women have accused Oren and Alon of raping them in separate lawsuits.

A woman has accused star real estate broker Tal Alexander and his brother Alon of raping her at a Manhattan apartment in 2012.

The accusation was made in a lawsuit filed Tuesday in a New York state court. Earlier this year, two other women filed separate lawsuits accusing Alon and a third brother, Oren Alexander, of rape.

In the latest lawsuit, Angelica Parker accuses Alon and Tal of assaulting her in the fall of 2012 in their SoHo apartment while Oren watched.

Parker stated she met Oren in 2012 and "developed a brief personal relationship" with him. Parker says that in the fall of that year, she and a friend met Oren and Alon at the apartment at 543 Broadway.

The friend left after Alon began "groping her" and waited in a stairwell out of concern for Parker, according to the complaint. Parker's lawyer says in the lawsuit that Alon then orally and vaginally raped her and that during the vaginal rape, "Tal proceeded to forcibly orally rape Ms. Parker against her will."

Oren, "sat and watched as Ms. Parker was raped by his brothers," the complaint says.

Tal and Oren Alexander cofounded the luxury real-estate brokerage Official. Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Image

Isabelle Kirshner, a defense attorney representing Alon and Oren, said the brothers denied the allegations in Parker's lawsuit.

"They are pure fiction," Kirshner said in a statement. "We look forward to presenting the facts in court."

Michael Willemin, Parker's attorney, said in a statement that the case was "intended to send a message that the law applies even to the very wealthy and well connected, including the Alexanders."

"We have no doubt that Angelica will prevail in this matter," Willemin said.

An attorney for Tal Alexander did not immediately return an email Tuesday seeking comment on the allegation.

Tal and Oren were among the biggest names in the lucrative business of selling high-priced homes. They also developed a reputation in the brokerage business for their aggressive approach in courting wealthy clientele and elbowing other brokers out of transactions.

Two years ago the pair broke off from Douglas Elliman, the brand-name brokerage where they had worked for more than a decade, and cofounded Official Partners, a firm that focuses exclusively on the uppermost tier of the residential sales market.

In March, two women in separate lawsuits filed in NY state court accused Oren and his identical twin brother Alon, 36, of rape. In one case, Rebecca Mandel said Oren and Alon met her at a Manhattan nightclub in 2012, spiked her drink, and invited her to a party at their apartment. When they arrived, the home was empty, and Alon and Oren held her down and took turns raping her, she said.

In the second lawsuit, Kate Whiteman said Oren and Alon whisked her away from a nightclub in a private car and raped her at a mansion in the Hamptons in 2012.

Evan Torgan, the attorney representing Mandel and Whiteman, said his clients felt "devastation" for Parker after hearing about her lawsuit.

"But they're really gratified that everyone's joining the fight with them as well," he told BI. "Hopefully, they'll get justice, and all the victims will get justice, and it'll finally come to a stop."

Oren announced last week he would take a "pause" from Official Partners while he defended himself from "these baseless civil claims."

"I am confident that through review of the extensive evidence, including text messages and other communications, that the truth will be brought to light," he stated.

Official released a message last Friday to its employees stating that Oren's brokerage license was severed from the firm "and the process of removing him from ownership is well underway."

A spokesman for Official Partners declined to comment on the newest lawsuit and didn't say whether Tal Alexander will remain at the firm.

Read the original article on Business Insider
(Reuters) - Retail technology and software provider CDK Global was investigating a cyber incident and had briefly shut down all its systems proactively, it said on Wednesday.

The company, which provides software to car dealerships, said its core dealer management system and digital retailing solutions had been restored. It said it also had tested and consulted with external third-party experts after the incident.

"We are continuing to conduct extensive tests on all other applications, and we will provide updates as we bring those applications back online," CDK said in an emailed statement to Reuters.

CDK's systems first went down around 2:00 a.m. EDT (0600 GMT) and some functions began to come back online by Wednesday afternoon, according to a report by Bloomberg News.

The company was bought by investment firm Brookfield Business Partners in April 2022 for $6.41 billion in a cash deal that took private the last major publicly traded provider of software to auto dealers and manufacturers.

"We are aware of a reported CDK outage. We are currently evaluating any impact on our Ford Dealers," Ford Motor told Reuters in an emailed statement.

General Motors and BMW did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment sent outside regular U.S. business hours on whether the cyber incident had affected their dealerships.

(Reporting by Juveria Tabassum; Editing by Josie Kao and Leslie Adler)
(WFRV)  Authorities in southeastern Wisconsin arrested a 55-year-old man after an investigation revealed he allegedly was trying to meet up with a 12-year-old from Wyoming.

According to the Kenosha County Sheriffs Office, detectives received a tip from Rock Springs, Wyoming, in February of 2024 regarding an incident where a man, later identified as Shane B. Wilson, 55, from Salem Lakes, was reportedly attempting to meet up with the child in Wyoming.

UPDATE: Pulaski man accused of videotaping teenager while showering appears for status conference

The Kenosha County Sheriffs Office and Wyoming law enforcement worked together for several months to further investigate this crime, and they identified Wilson as the suspect.

On the morning of June 13, authorities executed a search warrant at Wilsons residence, and during a search, they reportedly found a significant amount of child pornography. Wilson was subsequently arrested during the search warrant.

Kenosha County Sheriff David Zoerner issued a statement regarding the incident, saying hes proud of the teamwork and continued effort to keep children safe.

This case is an example of the outstanding work done by our dedicated detectives and area law enforcement partners to bring Mr. Wilson to justice, said Zoerner. We will continue putting in the time and work to keep our children safe and put individuals like Mr. Wilson in jail. The children of our community are our priority; they are our future, and their innocence must be protected. Our Deputies, Detectives, and the entire agency will continue to pursue anyone [who] preys upon the innocent.

Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that Wilson appeared on behalf of a judge on Tuesday, where a $150,000 cash bond was set. He faces 15 counts of possession of child pornography and one count of child sexual exploitation.

Sheriff: Wisconsin man found with drugs in his car after a crash, arrested for 4th OWI

Shane Wilson is expected to return to court on June 21 for his preliminary hearing. The Kenosha County Sheriffs Office says the investigation remains open and ongoing.

No additional details were 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.
In 2020, I was one of the first openly LGBTQ+ individuals to be elected to the Delaware General Assembly in its 244-year history, along with Sens. Sarah McBride and Marie Pinkney. Then, in 2022, we elected two more openly LGBTQ+ legislators, Reps. DeShanna Neal and Kerri Evelyn Harris. In just two election cycles, we went from no openly LGBTQ+ state legislators to 5 out of 61. This is important because although we have many wonderful allies in Dover, having a seat at the table matters and so does representation.

During my four years in office, Ive worked hard to pass legislation supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Partnering with Pinkney and the Attorney Generals office, we updated and modernized our hate crimes statute. My HB 142 banned the LGBTQ+ panic defense in Delaware. The defense has been used in many states including Delaware. It is a legal strategy asking a jury to find that a victims sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression is to blame for a defendants violent act perpetrated upon an LGBTQ+ individual, up to and including murder.

A vibrant pride flag gracefully dances in the wind along Delaware Street, symbolizing inclusivity, love, and the celebration of diversity.

This year, Ive introduced legislation adding asexuality and pansexuality to the definition of sexual orientation throughout the Delaware code. Individuals identifying with these sexual orientations deserve protection in important areas like housing and employment just as much as individuals who identify as heterosexual, homosexual, and bisexual. They also deserve to know that they are recognized and respected. Ive also introduced legislation to add a Pride license plate to the long list of special license plates that Delawareans can purchase with part of the proceeds benefiting a nonprofit.

Ive accomplished things to help the LGBTQ+ community outside of legislation. Ive worked to increase funding for programs that benefit LGBTQ+ youth. Ive worked to phase in having all public single-stall restrooms be gender-neutral with inclusive signage. Ive worked with the Department of Corrections to assist individual transgender inmates and to acquire a consultant to advise regarding transgender inmate health needs. Ive met with the members of multiple Delaware LGBTQ+ school student groups to encourage them, answer their questions, and explain my role as a state representative. Each year Ive been in office, Ive passed General Assembly resolutions declaring June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Delaware.

Some people say that Pride Month is no longer necessary. I personally know otherwise. On my social media posts, I am frequently called a pedophile and a groomer and told that I should stay away from children. I am called a pervert and accused of poisoning the minds of young people. I am accused of recruiting young people into a deviant lifestyle. I have even received threats to my physical safety. Ive grown a thick skin since I came out at age 18 but I worry about the young people and the closeted people who see such comments, reinforcing their fears and insecurities that there is something wrong with them, that they are not good enough and that they are undeserving of having their dignity recognized.

Looking across America, we know that we still need Pride Month. In the last seven years, each year, the number of hate crimes perpetrated against LGBTQ+ Americans has risen. This is especially true for transgender members of our community, in particular Black transgender women. This year, hundreds of pieces of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation have been introduced including here in Delaware. Also, LGBTQ+ youth, compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts, have much higher rates of mental health and substance abuse issues, suicide and suicide attempts, self-harm, and homelessness. Female impersonators (and I was one for almost 25 years) continue to come under attack in ridiculous ways.

Rep. Eric Morrison

A criticism I hear sometimes is that as a state representative, I only represent fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community. But the facts prove otherwise. I began this legislative session with 18 pieces of legislation and only two of them are directly related to the LGBTQ+ community. When it comes to helping constituents, I do not ask about their sexual orientation or gender identity. I am present at all kinds of events inside and outside the district. I speak with young people frequently about various issues unrelated to the LGBTQ+ community. But make no mistake  it took us 244 years to have a seat at the table in Dover and because of that, many things that need to be accomplished for Delawares LGBTQ+ community have gone undone. I will not apologize for addressing these issues each year I am in office.

Eric Morrison is state representative for the 27th District which includes parts of Newark, Bear, and northern Middletown.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware lawmaker: We still need Pride Month
It's often in the face of imminent defeat that someone's character is tested. Unfortunately for residents of New York's 16th congressional district, Rep. Jamaal Bowman has failed in so many ways that it's been difficult to keep track. Bowman has resorted to a relentless campaign of brazen falsehoods in an effort to hold onto political power. It's disqualifying.

As the head of the 20,000 strong New York City and Vicinity District Council of Carpenters, it is my responsibility to track what our elected representatives do in the halls of power. Job opportunities, the right to organize, and the benefits we fought so hard for are directly tied to decisions made in Washington D.C. It was in that spirit that I brought Bowman to tour our training center to learn about our union, its members and how we can work together to grow opportunities for any of his constituents who wanted to become a union trade worker. The congressman promised to always stand up for workers. His actions in Washington D.C. quickly made a liar out of him.

Congressman Jamaal Bowman, candidate for New York's 16th Congressional District, is interviewed by journalists at the The Journal News / lohud offices in West Harrison May 24, 2024.

The 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was one of President Joe Biden's biggest accomplishments and will create thousands of good jobs for those in a union and apprenticeship opportunities for those who want to join one. It is also part of a game-changing federal effort to combat climate change and create safe drinking water for all Americans. Bowman loudly led the charge against it. He voted against it. However, now that he's on the verge of electoral defeat for opposing the infrastructure bill, hes suddenly found religion.

He has sent out text messages with false statements like "Jamaal helped pass the infrastructure bill" (the bill he voted against). He then further lies that his vote secured investments in "our infrastructure, housing, green jobs, and insulin price caps for seniors" and then follows that up by claiming, again falsely, that his opponent, County Executive George Latimer, "isn't on board" despite Latimer's well-known support for the infrastructure bill. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has pointedly slammed all MAGA-Republicans who voted against the bill but are claiming credit for it in their district. Bowman is no better.

In his questionnaire seeking our endorsement, the congressman also claimed to have voted for the bill. I'm not a congressman. Just a carpenter. Perhaps in Washington D.C., it's different, but on a job site we have a name for that: Liar.

Westchester County Executive George Latimer, candidate for New York's 16th Congressional District, is interviewed by journalists at the The Journal News/lohud offices in West Harrison May 23, 2024.

The Ccongressman took it a step further, justifying his anti-worker vote against the infrastructure bill, Bowman falsely claimed that "90% of the jobs in the first infrastructure bill go to white men." Mr. Bowman visited our training center. He saw that our union members reflect what Mayor Dinkins called the "gorgeous mosaic" that is New York City and America. He commended us for it, then turned around and said something completely different to the media when it suited him.

Right now, the rights of workers are under attack, and we need to be building unity to preserve our middle class. We understand that because we live it every day. Without worker unity, there is no minimum wage, there is no prevailing wage, there literally is no weekend. Bowman's pathological ability to lie is a dagger to the neck of worker solidarity.

Opinion: In the battle for the Democratic nomination in NY-16, climate change is on the ballot

Because of Bowman's votes against working people and his dishonesty, our union proudly endorsed his opponent, Democrat George Latimer. We did this not only because Latimer knows what it means to grow up living paycheck to paycheck and has always stood for working people, but also because we know he will be honest with us about what he is doing and why.

Truth is in short supply in politics these days, and it's because people like Bowman realize that if they keep lying and can dupe their followers on social media to repeat the lie, it can become what former President Donald Trump's associates used to call "alternate facts." We've seen Trump do it in the White House; we don't need a congressman in New York to join him in tearing apart our country with lies all in a vain effort to win an election. That kind of politics is bad for our nation, bad for democracy, and bad for the future. Worst of all, Bowman's lies are bad for the people of the 16th Congressional District. Come Primary Day, June 25, we look forward to helping to change that.

Joseph Geiger is executive secretary-treasurer of the New York City and Vicinity District Council of Carpenters.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: George Latimer is the right choice in NY-16
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has convened a meeting on Ukraine's energy crisis and stated that measures are being developed to help people get through the heating season more easily.

Source: Zelenskyy's address

Quote: "Also today, I met with government officials, the office team, and the NSDC (National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine) Secretary to discuss the current energy crisis. We are developing methods to make the heating season more predictable and provide people with more opportunity to get through this particularly challenging period in terms of energy, its shortages, and blackouts.

I've asked them to give me all of the details of what the state can contribute, as well as specific sectors of energy where partners should continue to be mobilised."

Details: Zelenskyy also announced a meeting with the Marshal of the Polish Sejm, during which one of the main subjects discussed was the protection of Ukraine, in particular the energy sector, from Russian terrorist attacks.

Quote: "We talked about major needs: what is required now and how Poland can contribute. We reviewed our countries' whole bilateral agendas,as well as diplomatic steps that can strengthen us all in the area. I thank Poland for deciding to stand with Ukraine during this time of war."

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The three-toed sloth, native to the Amazon basin, is not known for its speed. The animals move almost as if they were in slow motion.

Unfortunately the same is not true for the Oropouche virus that they carry. Part of the arbovirus family, which includes Zika and Dengue, it is subject to explosive bursts of contagion.

An epidemic which hit Belem, in the Brazilian Amazon state of Para, in 1961, infected 11,000 people within weeks.

Now Oropouche is on the move in South America, alarming experts about its disastrous threat to the regions healthcare systems.

Infections are spreading much further afield than the jungle, where Oropouche has traditionally been endemic.

Within the first half of this year, Brazil recorded 5,530 cases, compared to just 836 in all of 2023.

Cases have also been noted in Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, and even more worryingly across the ocean in Cuba.

Infections are spreading much further afield than the jungle, where Oropouche is endemic - Robert Harding/Alamy Stock Photo

Scientists fear the virus, which is spread primarily through culicoides paraensis and Aedes mosquitos from sloths, has the potential to be the next one to cause a big outbreak in South America.

The continent has fiercely battled against epidemics of Zika and Chikungunya in the past decade, and now faces one of the worst Dengue epidemics ever.

Zika infections during pregnancy can cause infants to be born with microcephaly, an abnormal smallness of the head, and other congenital malformations as well as preterm birth and miscarriage.

Its part of a pattern in recent years whereby the Americas are seeing more widespread cases of vector-borne disease: this year a particularly bad one for Dengue with concerns also for Chikungunya virus and now cases of Oropuche, Danny Altmann, a Professor of Immunology at Imperial College London, told the Telegraph.

People in Brazil are worried about yet another arbovirus getting a foothold as theyve paid such a high price  health and economic  for introduction over recent years of Zika and Chikungunya.

Theres a lot we dont know

Oropouche is an arboviral disease  an infection caused by a group of viruses spread to people by the bite of infected arthropods such as mosquitoes and ticks  like Chikungunya, Zika and Dengue.

Most cases of Oropouche are mild, with symptoms similar to Dengue, including a headache, body pains, nausea, and rash, but the virus can also attack the brain.

Suspected fatalities are currently under investigation.

Experts fear that even a small epidemic could overwhelm South Americas already stretched healthcare system.

What worries scientists the most is that much of the science behind the virus and its spread is unknown.

With Oropouche itself, theres a lot we dont know regarding its transmission  what insects it can be transmitted by, what animals might act as reservoirs for that disease. Theres a gap in knowledge about where we expect this virus to turn up. Can it be transmitted easily to other regions, like North America? Dr Christopher Sanders, Institute Fellow at the Pirbright Institute, said.

The strain behind the recent outbreak was first spotted in the tiny village of Oropouche, in Trinidad and Tobago, back in 1955.

Five years later a sloth was tested as carrying Oropouche during the construction of the Belem-Brasilia highway.

Within a year people in the area were struck down by Oropouche fever, and around 30 outbreaks have been reported since, all of these centred in the Amazon basin.

In the jungle, the virus circulates between primates, sloths, and birds, but it remains unclear which insect spreads it there.

Tiny culicoides paraensis and Aedes mosquitos distribute the disease among humans in urban settings.

The current outbreak was first noted in Roraima, a state in northern Brazil, and it has now stretched across the countrys heavily populated East Coast, including the states of Rio de Janeiro, Santa Catarina, Bahia, and Minas Gerais.

Only a handful of these patients had travelled to the Amazon basin, meaning Oropouche is now being transmitted locally.

The Oropouche virus  a vector-borne disease  is subject to explosive bursts of contagion - LUIS ROBAYO/AFP via Getty Images

Experts told the Telegraph that this is a result of deforestation and increased urbanisation, as well as climate change extending the habitats of the vectors carrying the disease.

Culicoides breed in rotting vegetation, particularly banana plantations. With deforestation and urbanisation, theyre now breeding close to where people are, said Dr Sanders.

The consequence of things like deforestation and increased urbanisation is that people are interrupting that sylvatic cycle and providing the habitats for other vectors which then bite humans more. Weve introduced people to a transmission cycle.

Deforestation has the potential to displace the host animal and also cause midges and mosquitoes to feed on humans, rather than wildlife.

The first cases recorded in the current outbreak were detected near recently deforested areas in Manaus, the capital of Amazonas state.

Soaring temperatures caused by climate change have also encouraged the midges to fly further afield, while increased rainfall and flooding have provided the perfect breeding ground.

Professor Altmann said that we should all be worried about diseases like Oropouche extending their reach, and that they could become common in many parts of the USA and Southern Europe within the coming decades.

Oropouche is certainly a worry for its uncertainty and, for all those worried about global health, it just feels like climate change is adding to the healthcare burden in a very palpable way, season by season, he said.

Typical control interventions for vector bourne disease  like mosquito nets and insect repellent  might not work for slowing the spread of Oropouche.

The midges are so tiny that they pass through mosquito nets and common insect repellents might not be as effective as they are against mosquitos. So far it remains unclear whether other insects could be contributing to transmission.

The fact that we dont have a really good idea of all the species of insects that can transmit Oropouche means we dont know where the risk area lies in terms of how it might go onwards to spread, said Dr Sanders.

Dr Sanders said that Oropouche could undergo genetic changes to make it more dangerous.

Deforestation and increased urbanisation, as well as climate change, have helped bring the virus closer to humans - MAURO PIMENTEL/AFP via Getty Images

Oropouche has three RNA segments, while most insect-borne viruses consist of one. Two different strains can swap segments when infecting the same cell, resulting in mutations.

These genetic changes can impact the virus ability to infect, cause disease, spread, evade the immune system, and drug resistance.

Weve seen other viruses move across the world very quickly and cause issues after mutating. Zika is the big one  it just takes a small change in the virus itself for it to spiral out of control, said Dr Sanders.

Zika, another RNA virus, mutated to become more of a threat than it was initially thought to be.

The virus was first detected in Uganda in 1947, and sporadic outbreaks were recorded in the coming decades, but by 2015 emerged as a major epidemic in Brazil.

With Zika, a very small change made the Aedes mosquitoes much more able to transmit it, explained Dr Sanders.

In outbreaks over the last decade, Zika was found to be associated with an increased incidence of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare and serious condition that affects the nerves.

Despite the best efforts of modellers, nobody saw Zika coming, said Professor Altmann. And nobody quite knows how badly Oropouche will spread.

Brazil has now increased surveillance in an attempt to get a hold of the spread.

Until now, only laboratories in the Amazonian region tested for Oropuche, but now 10 per cent of samples from patients across the country whose symptoms align with Oropouche fever but test negative for Zika, Chikungunya, and Dengue will be tested.

The Pan American Health Organization has pushed for other countries to step up their surveillance too.

How much further this disease could spread and the symptoms it could end up causing down the line remains unclear.

We just know that once these things shift into human populations, they tend to get worse with time, not better, said Professor Altmann. Oropuche is unknowable and unpredictable.

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This story originally appeared on Yale Environment 360. Late last year federal officials discovered the carcass of a mule deer buck near Yellowstone Lake in a remote region of Yellowstone National Park. Its cause of death was chronic wasting disease (CWD), experts said, making this the first confirmed death of an animal in the park from the disease. The discovery was alarming, but it wasnt a surprise. First discovered in deer in Colorado in 1967, CWD has since spread, primarily through wild and captive deer populations, across the United States, Canada, and globally. The transportation of live or harvested deer around the country has also contributed to the spread. Its now found in 34 states, five provinces, and in four other countries. California just became the latest state to confirm cases, and British Columbia recently found its first cases. Experts believe the disease will be present in all 48 contiguous states within the next decade. While the unusual disease has primarily afflicted white-tailed deer and mule deer, it infects all cervids, including moose, elk, reindeer, and caribou. Yellowstone, known as Americas Serengeti, has been of special concern to biologists, because many thousands of elk, deer, and moose live on and cross its wild landscape. Studies show that herds afflicted with CWD decline between 3 and 20 percent per year. Detection of the disease in Yellowstone was anticipated because there are 22 state-run and one federally run elk-feeding operations in Wyoming. Feeding operations bring thousands of animals together, which enhances the transmission of disease. The slow decline of the nervous system causes animals to drool, stumble, and stare blankly in the days before they die. CWD has huge ecological implications, said Thomas Roffe, a veterinarian and a retired chief of wildlife health for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Ive warned that if we get a disease that we cant fix, cure, or vaccinate our way out of, we are really going to have a problem. And CWD falls into that category. CWD is unlike any other wildlife disease. Its caused by a cell protein that becomes abnormal, or misfolded. When this so-called prion comes into contact with normal proteins in an animals brain, it causes those cells to misfold as well, sparking the symptoms of CWD. The brains of infected animals deteriorate to a spongy consistency. The slow decline of the nervous system causes animals to drool, stumble, and stare blankly in the days before they die  thats why its been dubbed zombie deer disease and the disease from outer space. It can take several years to kill an animal. CWD is always fatal, has no treatment or vaccine, and is difficult to detect. CWD-infected animals can excrete infectious prions before clinical signs appear, said Brandon Munk, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife veterinarian who oversees the states CWD surveillance and response efforts. These prions can persist in the environment for years, making it very difficult to prevent or control the spread once it has been introduced. There is a long list of unknowns about CWD, and there are several major efforts to understand the nature of the disease as it continues to spread. One of the chief concerns is that CWD prions will jump the species barrier into humans, similar to the way the AIDS virus moved from chimpanzees into humans. In humans the prions could cause a variant of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative disease. We are quite unprepared if humans contract the disease, said Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease expert who led the response to Covid-19 as the director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) at the University of Minnesota and is heading its CWD effort. If we saw a spillover right now, we would be in freefall. There are no contingency plans for what to do or how to follow up. Its a slow-moving disaster. Last year, Minnesota funded a CIDRAP project to bring together 70 public health experts from around the world to start devising a plan in the event of a spillover. Osterholm said that recent research shows the prion is evolving and becoming more able to infect humans. The prions we are seeing today will much more readily enter a humanized mouse [one that has been modified with human genes so its immune system responds in ways similar to a human immune system], he said. They are much more conducive to jumping into a human cell today than they were ever before. However, another recent study by the National Institutes of Health found the likelihood of a spillover was remote after researchers introduced high levels of prions to human brain cells, which failed to become infected. The abnormal proteins that cause CWD can remain infectious for at least 15 years and can be transported by water and by dust. A case study published last April in the journal Neurology, meanwhile, noted that two men who ate venison from a herd known to be infected with CWD contracted rapid-onset Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. One of the men died of the disease within a month of showing symptoms, the other died later. The five authors speculated the illness could have been caused by their frequent venison consumption (prions have been found in the muscle tissue of deer). The cases received a flurry of press attention, but other experts noted the paper was merely an observation and that the possibility that the disease came from eating deer meat needed more research. A separate group of experts at the University of Minnesota is studying the ecology of CWD, which is key to understanding where it has, and could, spread and how best to prevent or mitigate it. We are looking at how prions move through the environment, said Peter Larsen, an associate professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota and co-director of the Minnesota Center for Prion Research and Outreach. There are a lot of prions being put out in the environment, he said. Where are they going, and what does exposure look like? These things can circulate in the environment for long periods of time, but how long do they remain infectious in the environment? So far, data from studies of scrapies  a fatal prion-related degenerative disease that affects sheep and goats, but not humans who consume them  shows that prions can remain infectious for at least 15 years. They can be transported by water and by airborne dust. One recent study found that plants can be vectors of the disease, taking up prions from the soil through their roots, carrying them to the growth aboveground, and infecting animals that consume them. So far, though, that movement has been seen only in laboratory settings, not in the wild. Some places have banned the import of hay from prion-infected regions. In some areas of the country, there are prevalence rates of 30 or 40 percent of a deer herd, Larsen said. And the infected deer are outputting those prions into the environment in their feces and their urine every day. If you think about an alfalfa field, you can get a hundred deer on the patch for days. Thats a lot of prions in the environment. How the prions will evolve is another major unknown. One study showed that prions that passed through the digestive track of voles evolved to become infectious to raccoons. One mitigating factor in Yellowstone may be the presence of wolves, which are not susceptible to the disease. Some biologists believe they could help keep CWD from spreading by chasing and consuming animals weakened by the illness. Preliminary models show that wolves may delay outbreaks and reduce their size; some experts believe the inexorable spread of CWD may be the result of a lack of predators and scavengers on the landscape. Experts say the key to preventing a possible spillover to humans is the development of a test that hunters could perform in the field. At the same time, predators and scavengers can spread the disease. This is one of the most concerning aspects of CWD, said Larsen. Many species can be exposed to CWD prions, and we dont know how those prions will evolve and which mammals those prions will be able to infect. Prions pose a unique challenge because, unlike bacteria or viruses, they are virtually indestructible. Cooking doesnt kill them: to the contrary, it concentrates them. Nor can they be killed with antiseptics or irradiation. The only known spread of a prion disease to humans occurred in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when prions infected cattle and caused bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or Mad Cow Disease. More than 200 people who ate the infected beef died of variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, primarily in Europe. Some researchers, though, believe prions may cause other diseases, including Parkinsons and multiple sclerosis. Nonetheless, its estimated that between 7,000 and 15,000 infected animals, mostly deer, are unknowingly consumed by humans annually. Deer can be tested after they are shot, but it can take a week for results and many hunters dont bother with it. The key to preventing continued spread and a possible spillover to humans, experts say, is the development of a test that hunters could perform in the field, producing results in hours rather than days or weeks. A bull elk with CWD in Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota. Credit: USGS Another challenge to detecting the presence of prions in humans is their long latency. Infected deer meat might not cause a neurological disease for many years, at which point the earlier meat consumption and the illness may seem unconnected. Hunters are on the front lines of the disease around the world. While some people no longer eat wild game, Steve Rinella, the host of the television series MeatEater, says that most of the hunters he talks to say that since CWD has not been seen in humans, they do not worry about it. That would change dramatically if a hunter got CWD, he said. It would be a nightmare if a hunter got CWD. The threat poses a unique concern to Indigenous people who rely on wild game. White-tailed deer are an important cultural and food resource to the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, said Tanya Roerick, the wildlife program director for the tribe. Not for sport, but to sustain their family and spiritual connections. CWD has been found in three places within 15 miles of the reservation, she said, and threatens the Ojibwe way of life. For years, the tribe has been providing free CWD testing of deer harvested by tribal members. That surveillance, said Roerick, will continue for the foreseeable future.

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The Scoop

Sierra Leone is seeking to raise up to $150 million to roll out a far reaching digital innovation hub strategy led by a new Tech City and covers everything from job creation and training to entrepreneurship and supporting inbound investment.

The new policy approach, which is overseen by the technology and innovation minister Salima Bah, is intended to position the West African country as an incubation hub for innovators attracting talent from across the sub-region as well as within the country, she told Semafor Africa in an interview.

We really want to play the role of being a home for innovative ideas in the very early stages, in the hopes that we create an environment that would allow [entrepreneurs] to thrive, said Bah.

The Tech City will sit within a 130-acre special economic zone in Tikonko, Bo District in the middle of the country about 250 kilometers east of the capital Freetown. It is being adapted to support startups and innovators, according to the minister. She said the countrys small size  with a GDP of just under $4 billion in 2023 and population of 8.7 million  could allow it to adapt quicker in a fast-changing environment.

The new digital policy push is being supported by private players including local telecoms companies Africell and Orange Sierra Leone as well as early grant backing from development financial institutions. Africell has committed to building a data center in Tech City as part of the project which will be open to third parties, according to Africell Sierra Leone head, Shadi Gerjawi.

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Sierra Leone Ministry of Communications, Technology and Innovation

The early stages of the plan, which is still being finalized by the government, were rolled out last week at the three-day Sierra Leone Tech Summit in Freetown which was attended by some 4,000 delegates. President Julius Maada Bio, who was in attendance, gave his support behind the strategy unveiling plans including a $50 million digital transformation to modernize the countrys digital infrastructure and promote digital literacy.

A key part of the Tech City strategy involves securing commitments from companies to set up facilities within the zone including data centers and tech schools. But theres a particular early focus on job creation via opening business process outsourcing centers with 10,000 to 15,000 computer seats and factories with device assembly lines.

Yinkas view

The rise of tech hubs across Africa over the last decade and a half hasnt included Sierra Leone as a major center of innovation. But as one of the ministers consultants, Oswald Osaretin Guobadia, told me, if the country can get the right digital policy in place as laid out in a six-point plan. That plan focuses on how to attract, thrive, and retain entrepreneurs and established businesses. It could spark a digital-led transformation for the country which could have wider economic impact particularly when it comes to both the creation of jobs and the creation of talent. Guobadia was previously a senior special assistant on digital transformation for the Nigerian president, so he is familiar with the impact of policy on a countrys tech ambitions.

Of course none of this is straightforward just because a policymaker has a compelling vision. Sierra Leone is effectively making a number of bets. Firstly, the government has to hope enough startups and founders from cities like Lagos and Accra will come over to join Freetowns fledgling startup scene to create the kind of critical mass which will in turn catch the attention of angel and venture investors. But those startups will not just need money, theyll be hoping to find local talent who can help them grow their businesses. Its not clear Sierra Leone will have that in sufficient numbers for a while.

One of the ways Bah and her team will be hoping this works is that its part of a wider plan for Sierra Leone to tackle ease of doing business and key infrastructure targets, meaning everything from work visas and lower taxes to reliable, fast internet and steady electricity. Bah acknowledges that these are challenges that need to be addressed and was a big part of the thinking for a Tech City in the first place.

While the government is trying to solve the electricity problem countrywide, we do know we can solve it within this designated zone, Bah told me.

The View From Sherbro Island

Hollywood movie star Idris Elba, whose father hails from Sierra Leone, has announced plans to turn Sherbro Island  off the coast of Sierra Leone  into an eco-friendly smart city. Earlier this year, insurer Lloyds of London said it would take a role in the project. It added that Sherbro Alliance Partners, the company run by Elba and his business partner, was putting together feasibility studies with Sierra Leones government. Sherbro is expected to focus on creative industries and innovative projects.

Bah said that Elbas project would not be in conflict with the Tech City plans. Instead, she said, there would be opportunities for the developments to complement each other and avoid driving up costs by duplicating efforts.
Future forecast: Clean skies, a cool breeze, and the bright sounds of birds chirping, thanks to breakthrough wind power technology out of the Netherlands.

Wind, a source of renewable energy, brings countless perks (including lower utility bills, more jobs, and additional community revenue, per the U.S. Department of Energy). Importantly, wind also provides power without releasing toxic chemicals that create health, economic, and environmental hazards for people, plants, and animals.

One drawback? Bird and bat fatalities caused by collisions with the rotating blades of wind turbines. Though the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has studied it and said the problem isn't as concerning as many try to paint it to be, the collisions do happen.

With that concern in mind, wind farm developer Ecowende is diminishing that danger with its new project: an offshore wind farm in the Netherlands that generates energy, reduces wildlife risks, and pioneers ecological progress.

Ecowende, the joint venture of energy companies Shell, Chubu, and Eneco, reached out to Dutch bird detection technology company Robin Radar Systems for support in the construction and implementation of its wind turbines, as reported by Renewable Energy magazine.

"Many birds migrate at night, have no visibility, and fly at the level of the turbines," Sibylle Giraud, vice president of wind and environmental practice at Robin Radar Systems, said in the Renewable Energy report. "There is a high risk of collision."

Current U.S. estimates of annual bird deaths caused by turbines are in the hundreds of thousands. It's a small number, in context: Cats claim at least one billion bird lives every year, buildings and vehicles kill up to one billion more, and toxic emissions lead to more avian mortalities than wind turbines do.

Regardless of the threat level, the renewable energy industry is working to promote the survival of birds and bats. (The latter's prognosis is more dire: "Turbine collisions could drive certain bat species to extinction," Canary Media stated earlier this year.)

The industry has tested both simple and complex mitigation measures with some success. One major difficulty lies in the data (or, more accurately, lack thereof), as these collisions are notoriously tough to measure.

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Ecowende worked with a key triad of companies to comprehensively address the issue. Robin Radar Systems, the Danish Hydraulic Institute, and Spanish manufacturer MIDO, a part of Wedge Global, each leaned in to its respective strengths of detection, data, and design.

The result? A cutting-edge "radar-assisted shutdown" framework merging Robin Radar's proprietary avian radar system MAX with DHI's artificial-intelligence powered cameras and sensors, all housed on MIDO's FLORA 1  an "innovative, self-powered floating radar station for offshore bird tracking."

Together, the system's components locate nearby birds and bats, analyze species information, and alert wind turbines to shift, slow, or shut down as animals approach. It's an automatic process with seamless communication that also supports ecologists by providing them with informative data.

Renewable Energy reported that the groundbreaking offshore wind farm should be up and running by the end of the year.

"During high peaks of bird migration they can shut down the turbine in real-time," Giraud said. "These tools allow operators to find the right balance between maximising the energy production of the wind farm and at the same time minimizing the risk of collision with birds or bats."

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EVANSVILLE  CenterPoint Energy is appealing the assessed value of its riverfront property in Evansville with the state, an action that could impact customers.

In two separate appeals with the Indiana Board of Tax Review, CenterPoint disagrees with the Vanderburgh County Assessor's 2022 and 2023 assessments of its 101 Court St. property. The assessment area includes the utility's main office building and the parking behind it.

In 2022, the land was valued at $3,460,100 and improvements at $27,811,200. In 2023, the land was valued at $3,460,100 and improvements at $26,271,000. The assessment remained the same for 2024, according to the assessor's website.

Cynthia Vaught, chief deputy in the assessor's office, said the county anticipated CenterPoint would file an appeal for 2024, as well. They did so with the county ahead of Monday's deadline.

CenterPoint Energy Plaza in downtown Evansville, Indiana.

"The assessment appeal process exists so that property owners can ensure that assessments accurately reflect market value and are consistent with the assessments and market value of comparable properties recently assessed in the area," CenterPoint Energy spokesman Noah Stubbs said. "Our appeal of this assessment is necessary as we continue to keep our customers interests, and the impact this assessment has on customer rates, top of mind."

An appeal for the 2022 assessment was denied at the local level by the Vanderburgh County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals. The 2023 appeal was filed directly with the state.

What sort of decrease, refund would CenterPoint want?

The Courier & Press asked Stubbs what CenterPoint believes the property should be assessed at for 2022 and 2023. Stubbs said the utility has not yet finalized its "opinion." Filings with the state also do not list a suggested value.

But Vaught said CenterPoint's initial claim was for an "$11,000,000 reduction in assessed value which equates to refunds in excess of $300,000 per year."

Earlier this month, Vanderburgh County Commissioners approved a contract between the assessor's office and real estate valuation firm Integra Realty Resources. Vaught said Integra's job will be to complete an "entirely independent third-party valuation of the commercial property."

CenterPoint Energy Plaza in downtown Evansville, Indiana.

"We think it is critical to fight these types of cases, as this sort of refund and reallocation of assessed value potentially shifts the tax burden disproportionately to homeowners and other taxpayers," Vaught said.

According to Vanderburgh County Auditor Brian Gerth, when a refund is paid, it comes from the county's general fund.

Story continues

"These transactions are tracked, and at settlement time the money is pulled out of the taxing unit where the money was originally distributed to," Gerth said. "This money is then reimbursed back to the countys general fund."

But in this instance it would work differently because CenterPoint Energy's Court Street property is a part of the Downtown Tax Increment Finance district.

In those cases, the auditor's office has to analyze the total refund and compare it to the base assessed value and incremental assessed value to determine how much the TIF will be impacted.

According to the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance, base assessed value is the value at the time the TIF was created. That goes to the civil taxing units, like schools. Incremental assessed value is increases to value after the creation of the TIF. Those dollars go back into the TIF district.

How would a refund impact other taxpayers?

Gerth said its hard to say how a refund would impact other taxpayers without a completed appeal.

"Depending on what the base (assessed value) and incremental (assessed value) is, the impact from the appeal would be felt by all taxing units with City Pigeon taxing district," Gerth said. "If the appeal is successful, and the assessed value is lowered on future years, then that difference is spread to the taxpayers within that taxing unit."

Those same taxpayers are also CenterPoint customers. Customers, Stubbs said, which are already impacted by how much the company has to pay in property taxes.

"It's important to note we are seeking an accurate assessment, particularly in comparison to other riverfront properties," he said. "The assessment of this property can impact customer rates because property taxes are part of the utilitys overall expenses."

He said the ratemaking process in Indiana allows those expenses to be passed on to customers as a part of their rates.

"If the property is assessed at a higher value than its true market value, the resulting higher property taxes would contribute to increased costs," Stubbs said. "These costs are then reflected in the rates set for customers through traditional ratemaking methods."

The Courier & Press followed up with Stubbs and asked: If the state does not lower the assessment of CenterPoint's property, does that mean customer rates could increase?

Stubbs did not respond.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: CenterPoint wants state to lower assessed value on local property
Christian Hernandez appears in Yakima County Superior Court Tuesday, June 18, 2024. He was sentenced to 17 months for attempted second-degree child molestation. Hernandez was arrested in 2019 as part of the "Operation Net Nanny" sting, in which undercover police officers went online masquerading as teenagers in an attempt to find men who were wanting to have sex with minors.
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SHANGHAI/BEIJING/BERLIN (Reuters) -Chinese automakers have urged Beijing to hike tariffs on imported European gasoline-powered cars in retaliation for Brussels' curbs on exports of Chinese-made EVs, the state-backed Global Times newspaper said on Wednesday.

In a closed-door meeting on Tuesday also attended by European car companies, China's auto industry "called on the government to adopt firm countermeasures (and) suggested that positive consideration be given to raising the provisional tariff on gasoline cars with large-displacement engines," according to the report.

The meeting, organised by China's Ministry of Commerce, was held in Beijing and attended by SAIC, BYD , BMW, Volkswagen and its Porsche division, two people with direct knowledge of the matter said.

The main aim of the meeting was to put pressure on Europe and lobby against the tariffs Brussels announced last week to shield its car industry from Chinese competition, they added.

The meeting was also attended by Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis and Renault, two separate sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The ministry did not immediately respond to a faxed request for comment.

BMW, Volkswagen, Stellantis and Renault declined to comment.

A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz said the group supports a liberal trade regime based on WTO rules.

"Against the background of globalisation and the economic interdependencies of our time, the motto for securing prosperity and peace is: dialogue and constructive cooperation. We are counting on the efforts of politicians to continue this dialogue."

Industry insiders say both Europe and China have reasons for wanting to strike a deal in the months ahead to de-escalate tensions and avoid the addition of billions of dollars in new costs for Chinese EV makers, as the EU process allows for review.

'TARIFF WAR'

The announcement to impose tariffs could trigger talks between Brussels and Beijing that are aimed at avoiding them, said Stefan Hartung, CEO of Bosch, the world's largest automotive supplier.

The European Commission said on Wednesday it was looking into the situation "with a view to discussing if a mutually agreeable solution can be found."

EU trade policy is turning increasingly protective amid concerns that China's production-focused, debt-driven development model could see the 27-member bloc flooded with cheap goods, including electric vehicles, as Chinese firms look to boost sales overseas due to weak demand at home.

The European Commission's June 12 announcement that it would impose anti-subsidy duties of up to 38.1% on imported Chinese EVs from July followed a move by the United States to hike tariffs on Chinese cars in May, and opens a new front in the West's trade war with Beijing.

Story continues

"Personally, I think it is unfair to start a tariff war solely on the basis of (China's) capacity utilisation rate and insufficient demand for China's new energy vehicles," said Zhang Yansheng, chief research fellow, China Center for International Economic Exchanges.

"We can see that China has adopted a package of policies to solve the 'overcapacity' problem, so this year, next year, and into the next four years, China's capacity utilisation will continue to rise," he added.

The Global Times first reported late last month that a Chinese government-affiliated auto research centre was suggesting China raise its import tariffs on imported gasoline sedans and sport utility vehicles with engines larger than 2.5 litres to 25%, from the current rate of 15%.

Chinese authorities have previously hinted at possible retaliatory measures through state media commentaries and interviews with industry figures.

HOSTILE HINTS

The same newspaper last month also hinted that Chinese companies planned to ask authorities to open an anti-dumping investigation into European pork products, which China's commerce ministry on Monday announced it would undertake.

It has also urged Beijing to look into EU dairy imports.

Exports of passenger vehicles with engines bigger than 2.5 liters from Europe to China totalled 196,000 units in 2023, up 11% year-on-year, according to data from China Passenger Car Association. In the first four months of 2024, exports of such vehicles from Europe to China stood at 44,000 units, down 12% from the same period a year ago.

EU car exports to China were worth 19.4 billion euros ($20.8 billion) in 2023, while the bloc bought 9.7 billion euros of electric vehicles from China, according to EU statistics agency figures.

China accounts for about 30% of German carmakers' sales, and Germany is by far the largest exporter of vehicles with engines of 2.5 litres or above, having shipped $1.2 billion worth to China since the beginning of this year, Chinese customs data shows.

Mercedes Benz's big-sized GLE Class SUV, S Class sedans and Porsche's Cayenne are the three most popular imported cars from Europe in China, the three of which accounted for more than one-fifth of the total 155,841 imported cars of European brands in the first five months, according to data tracked by China Merchants Bank International.

Slovakia is China's fourth-largest and the EU's second-biggest provider of cars with large engines. This year it has exported $803 million worth of sport utility vehicles.

The United States, the United Kingdom and Japan all also export large numbers of cars with engines bigger than 2.5 liters, and would presumably stand to benefit most from the proposed tariff increase.

($1 = 0.9314 euros)

(Reporting by Zhang Yan in Shanghai, Joe Cash in Beijing and Christina Amann in Berlin; Additonal reporting by Ella Cao, Albee Zhang, Bernard Orr, Philip Blenkinsop, Gilles Guillaume and Ilona Wissenbach; Writing by Joe Cash and Christoph Steitz; Editing by Anne Marie Roantree, Kim Coghill, Jamie Freed and Nick Zieminski)
Ridofranz / Getty Images/iStockphoto

As of the second quarter of 2024, the average personal savings rate in the US is a paltry 3.6%, according to the Federal Reserve.

Check Out: Im a Self-Made Millionaire, but I Still Opt For the Budget Versions of These 6 Items

Read Next: How To Get $340 Per Year in Cash Back on Gas and Other Things You Already Buy

But Youtuber Humphrey Yang points to a shocking savings disparity in China, whose average savings rate is 45.9%.

Why do Chinese workers save at more than ten times the rate that Americans do? More importantly, how do they do it, and how can you boost your savings rate?

How the Chinese Save So Much

Yang points to four ways the average Chinese consumer maintains a high savings rate.

First, the typical Chinese consumer doesnt indulge in luxury goods. Rather than flashing status symbols, they want to appear humble to their friends, family, and neighbors. According to Yang, most want to fly under the radar  an understandable impulse in a totalitarian country.

Second, many Chinese who grew up in poverty practice the 10:1 Rule, aiming to spend just one yuan for every ten they earn. In other words, they aim for a 90% savings rate. Yang acknowledges that even the most disciplined Chinese workers struggle to achieve a 90% savings rate, but it sets an ambitious goal for personal savings.

It also lays the foundation for a scarcity mindset, but thats a challenge higher up the socio-economic ladder. In poverty, a scarcity mindset can help you save the needed cash to invest in education or other necessities to improve your earning potential.

Third, Yang observes that most Chinese people focus on needs over wants. When they do splurge on wants, they look for the best value over the long term. In other words, they aim to be frugal rather than cheap.

Finally, many Chinese people prepare nearly all their meals at home, and only go out to eat for special occasions. That alone can save huge sums each month.

Learn More: 5 Unnecessary Bills You Should Stop Paying in 2024

Why Do the Chinese Save So Much More?

Understanding why the average Chinese saves at more than ten times the rate of the average American requires some cultural context.

On the simplest level, Yang points out that many Chinese consumers have an aversion to financing. They hate debt and prefer to pay in cash  which requires only spending money you have already saved.

Yang also notes that many Chinese citizens dont trust that the state pension system will actually pay them what they promised in retirement. So, they squirrel away more of their own money to hedge against poverty in retirement.

Story continues

At a tactical level, most Chinese also follow a zero-based budgeting system. They track where every yuan goes each month, and prioritize savings as the first expense.

Some cultural and demographic differences enter the calculus as well. Chinas one-child policy led to a shortage of girls, and at one point, 122 male babies were born for every 100 girls. Those babies grew up to become adults who want to make their babies, and Yang says that young Chinese men have tried to stand out from the pack by saving more to accrue wealth.

Yang also notes that Chinese culture views saving money as honorable. Children given red envelopes with money on New Years or birthdays are encouraged to save much of it. The culture views wealthier people as successful rather than with the antagonism and anger often seen in the United States.

Dont expect those cultural differences to take root Stateside any time soon, but we can all crib a few notes from the Chinese playbook to save more and secure our financial futures.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How Do the Chinese Save 45% of Their Money  And Why Do Americans Save Only 3%?
'Crystal clear', double-filtered drinking water in 250 ml and 500 ml aluminum cans with unparalleled filtration technology, is being launched by FloeWater featuring the image of American actress Eva Mendes, Index reports.

The filtered drinking water has a touch of Hollywood glamor, as internationally renowned American actress Eva Mendes has been chosen as the face of the beverage, the company announced in a press release, adding that



She is known to be a health-conscious woman. She exercises daily, hydrates and has almost completely eliminated plastics from her life. Her charisma and commitment reflect the brands values, making it even more appealing to consumers worldwide.



FloeWater holds the title of the worlds most popular ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage, and is about to undergo a revolutionary transformation as the company is set to redefine the rules of beverage production with its new product, canned water.



The introduction of FloeWater in a can is one of our most significant and exciting product innovations this year, as we are using a revolutionary new filtration technology and entering a new category thanks to the pre-packaged format.



Not to mention the fact that a true Hollywood star, the glamorous Eva Mendes, has become the face of the brand, stressed Adrienn Popovics, Marketing Director at HELL.



FloeWater will be available in 250 ml and 500 ml infinitely recyclable aluminum cans with BPA-free inner coating, in carbonated and non-carbonated versions, and can be found in stores from mid-June.



The cans will come in blue and gold and will feature an illustration of a whale to evoke ocean life, writes the release.



Photo credit:

FloeWater



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Cabinet approves Rs 2,869 cr for development of Varanasi airport New Delhi, Jun 19 (PTI) The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a Rs 2,869.65 crore proposal for the expansion of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport at Varanasi.

The development of the airport at Varanasi, which is the Lok Sabha constituency of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, includes the construction of new terminal building, extension of apron and runway, parallel taxi track and other allied works, informed I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after the Cabinet meeting.

The proposal of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), with an estimated financial outgo of Rs 2,869.65 crore, is aimed at enhancing the passenger handling capacity of the airport to 9.9 million passengers per annum (MPPA) from the existing 3.9 MPPA.
New Delhi: Aloke Bajpai is Ixigo's Co-Founder and CEO shared a Then Vs Now picture on his microblogging site X, sharing the journey of the company that started from a humble one room office to making a stellar listing at stock market.

Launched in 2007 by Aloke Bajpai and Rajnish Kumar, Le Travenues Technology is the country's leading online travel aggregator, which helps travellers plan, book and manage their trips across rail, air, buses, and hotels.

Bajpai, without saying much, just shared two pictures back to back stating 'How it started' and 'How its going'. Both the pictures spoke volumes of the company's growth from a very humble beginning to its market debut.

Shares of Le Travenues Technology Ltd, which operates travel booking platform ixigo, on Tuesday ended with a huge premium of over 78 per cent against the issue price of Rs 93. The company's market valuation stood at Rs 6,275.87 crore.

The initial public offering of Le Travenues Technology got subscribed 98.10 times on the closing day of subscription on Wednesday last week. The Rs 740 crore initial share sale had a fresh issue of up to Rs 120 crore and an Offer For Sale (OFS) of up to 6,66,77,674 equity shares. The price range for the offer was Rs 88-93 per share.
New Delhi: Institutional Investor Advisory Services (IiAS) has urged Raymond Shareholders to vote against the reappointment of Gautam Singhania as Chairman and Managing Director at the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). The upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) is to be held on June 27. The proxy advisory firm has also called for the removal of both Gautam Singhania and his estranged wife, Nawaz Modi from their positions.

IiAS stated, "Until the divorce issues are settled and an independent investigation is completed, we expect both Gautam Singhania and Nawaz Modi to step off the board." After all these accusations, Raymonds board still decided to propose the reappointment of Gautam Singhania for another five-year term. (Also Read: Nvidia Surpasses Microsoft, Apple To Become World's Most Valuable Publicly Traded Company)

Institutional Investor Advisory Services) has highlighted that no updates have been provided since December 2023 on any independent investigation into the allegations. Meanwhile, IiAS is urging shareholders to safeguard the company from internal disputes among promoters. (Also Read: Ixigo CEO Shares Then Vs Now Pic --From A Humble One-Room Office To Stock Market Listing)

Further, IiAS also raised concerns about Gautam Singhanias proposed remuneration. They called it excessive for the size of the business and not aligned with industry standards. The proposed structure, effective from July 2024 to June 2027 could see Singhanias pay exceed regulatory limits to around Rs 35 crore over 5 per cent of the profit for FY24.
State-owned Citizens Property Insurance Corp. is apparently in no mood to give its customers any rate-hike breaks.

Despite signs that the private insurance market in Florida is stabilizing, the insurer of last resort is continuing with its strategy to impose the maximum allowable 14% rate hike on its 1.2 million policyholders in 2025.

The 14% rate hike would affect the companys personal lines business, which consists of single-family homes, private condominium units, mobile homes and rentals. The rate includes multiperil policies with wind coverage and wind-only coverage for those categories.

The company is recommending raising the premium it charges for multiperil coverage of 71,196 single-family homes in Broward County by an average of 13.5%  from an average $5,385 to $6,112.

In Palm Beach County, 61,357 homeowners would see comparable coverage hiked by an average of 13.4%  from $4,904 to $5,561.

The 96,941 single-family homeowners covered by Citizens in Miami-Dade County would also see an average 13.5% increase from $5,113 to $5,804.

Condominium rates would increase by 14.3% in Broward County, 14.5% in Palm Beach County and 14.2% in Miami-Dade County.

Because the company releases average rate hikes and premiums, individual policies might cost more or less, depending on factors such as insured value and age of the structure.

The recommendations must be approved by the companys Board of Governors in a meeting Wednesday morning as well as by the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation following a public rate hearing at some point in the future.

Typically, the states insurance regulators approve a rate thats somewhat reduced from what Citizens requests.

If the rate hike limit wasnt in effect, Citizens would need a 38% rate hike to achieve whats known in the insurance business as actuarial soundness.

Prior to 2022, Citizens annual rate increases were capped at 10%. But the Florida Legislature, concerned that growth of the company could subject all insurance customers in Florida to surcharges and assessments if Citizens is unable to pay all claims after a disaster, voted to increase the limit on annual rate hikes by 1% a year until it reaches 15% in 2026.

The company maintains that state law required the company to gradually increase its rates until it became actuarily sound. But during Gov. Charlie Crists term, he responded to rapidly increasing insurance rates after the 2004-05 hurricane years by imposing a 10% cap that drove the companys rates cheaper than private market rates over time.

Allowing larger rate hikes for Citizens, the Legislature decided in 2021, would deter homeowners from choosing Citizens and encourage competition by private market insurers.

Story continues

A Citizens spokesman said on Wednesday that the proposed new rates remain well below the approved rates of most private insurers in the state.

The Board of Governors is scheduled to vote on the rate hikes at 9 a.m. Wednesday via Zoom conference.
New Delhi: Fresh on the heels of disbursement 17th Installment of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, media reports are speculating that the government may hike Minimum Support Prices (MSP) of urad and tur dal by up to 10 percent while soybean and sunflower oil could see an MSP hike of upto 7 percent.

A report in CNBC Awaaz has said that the decision could be taken at the cabinet meeting scheduled for today. It further added that the MSP in paddy too could be hiked this year by upto 5 percent.

The Government of India fixes Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 22 mandated agricultural crops on the basis of the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP), views of State Governments and Central Ministries/Departments concerned.

MSP on Kharif crops --Paddy, Jowar, Bajra, Ragi, Maize, Tur (Arhar), Moong, Urad, Groundnut, Sunflower Seed, Soyabeen (Yellow), Sesamum, Nigerseed And Cotton and MSP on Rabi crops --Wheat, Barley, Gram, Masur (Lentil), Rapeseed & Mustard, Safflower, Copra, Jute.

Governments price policy is to ensure remunerative prices to farmers by offering to procure their produce at MSP. However, farmers are free to sell their produce to the Government procurement agencies at MSP or in the open market, whichever is advantageous to them.
Srinagar: Two terrorists have been killed in an encounter that broke out on Wednesday in Baramullas Hadipora village, Jammu and Kashmir. The encounter started following a search operation to locate the terrorists hiding in the region.

As per the local officials, the search operation turned into an encounter when the terrorists opened fired on security personnels, injuring two.

The joint team of Police, Army, and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in Lyser, Hadipora area of Rafiabad in Sopore jurisdiction. As the forces approached the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists opened fire, leading to an exchange of gunfire, a police officer said.

As of the latest update, an intermittent exchange of fire was still ongoing. In response to the situation, authorities closed government degree college Hadipora and Panash institution as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.

The Union territory is witnessing a surge in terror activities in the past few weeks. On June 3 an encounter broke out between the armed forces and terrorist in the Nihama area of District Pulwama.

On June 9, a bus carrying pilgrims was attacked in the Reasi region resulting in nine deaths. The bus was en route to the Shiv Khori cave temple when attackers opened fire, acting on the orders of Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Abu Hamza.

Two days after the attack, a person was reportedly injured when terrorists opened fire in a village in Kathua district, near the International Border, and one terrorist was killed.

A third encounter took place in the Doda district of Jammu, followed by another in the same region, marking the fourth encounter in three days.

The encounter occurred a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Srinagar, first visit as he assumed the office for the third term. He will participate in International Yoga Day celebrations on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar on Friday.
A video of Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur.is going viral as she failed to write slogan 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' (Save Daughter, Educate Daughter). Savitri Thakur, who is a Member of Parliament from the Dhar Lok Sabha seat, was attending the school in Brahmkund, Dhar district, to welcome the students. This was the first time these students had attended school after their admission. To commemorate the occasion, grand ceremonies were organized in the schools.

Social Media Abuzz With Reactions

Social media users are mocking MoS Savitri Thakur for mispelling the slogan 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'. Many users called the state of India's education system dire. One user wrote, "This is not about her (minister) but about the "educational level" of the country." Another user said, 'There is a great need for improvement in the system". Third user said, "We get the politicians we deserve."

In one school in Dhar district, Savitri Thakur, the Central Minister for Women and Child Development, was in attendance. As part of the Lets Go to School campaign, she attempted to write Save Daughter, Educate Daughter on the school board. However, she was unable to write it correctly.

In an attempt to encourage bringing daughters to school, Minister Thakur tried to write the message Save Daughter, Educate Daughter on the school board. However, instead of writing Save Daughter, Educate Daughter, she wrote Educate Daughter, Save. The video of this incident is now being widely shared on social media. In the viral video, it is evident that Minister Thakur was aware of her mistake, and someone with her also pointed it out, but she was unable to correct it.

According to her election affidavit, Savitri Thakur, the MP from Dhar and the Central Minister for Women and Child Development, has passed 12th grade. She has been elected as an MP from the Dhar Lok Sabha seat for the second time. Her family has no political background. Her husband is a farmer, and her father was a government employee. Savitri Thakur has been associated with the Sangh and remains active in the region.
Retired Pakistani Brigadier Amir Hamza, involved in the 2018 Sunjuwan Army Camp attack in India, was shot dead by unknown assailants in Jhelum, Punjab. The attack, targeting him while he was with his wife and daughter, who were injured, has heightened alertness in Pakistan. This follows a series of eliminations of individuals linked to anti-India activities, including Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Khwaja Shahid.

In todays episode of DNA, Sourav Raj Jain analysed the patterns of similar eliminations of individuals who at times posed threat to India.

He talked about Indias 'unknown friend', a term that has become synonymous with fear in Pakistan. For the past few months, every individual in Pakistan who has been involved in any conspiracy against India at any time is being eliminated. This includes those who orchestrated terrorist attacks or provided support for such attacks.

The Indian Army has been stationed at the border with a specific roar in recent years: "We will enter their homes and kill them." Pakistan is terrified of this roar. While the Indian Army has not received any official signal from the government, their task is being carried out effortlessly by India's unknown friend, who is infiltrating Pakistan and eliminating terrorists.

Watch Full DNA Episode Here

If India's enemies are being killed on foreign soil, it raises the question of how India's most wanted individuals are roaming freely in that country. This question should also be asked of Canada, whose reverence for anti-India Khalistanis is no longer hidden from anyone.
Jammu and Kashmir police said on Wednesday that they have arrested one person linked with the Reasi terror attack on the Pilgrim bus. The incident occurred on June 9 when a bus carrying pilgrims was opened fired by the terrorists, leaving nine dead and 33 injured.

On June 17, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) took over the probe into the Reasi terror attack case in Jammu and Kashmir and started a thorough investigation into the matter that has raised security concerns in the Union Territory.

On June 15, the anti-terror agency took over the case from the Jammu and Kashmir Police and filed a new First Information Report (FIR) following orders from the Ministry of Home Affairs. These orders were issued in response to the severity of the incident, where attackers targeted a bus on the evening coinciding with the oath ceremony of the entire Union Cabinet, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi.

A day after the attack, the NIA team, along with their forensics, did a thorough examination of the site.

The terrorists attacked the bus as it was coming from the Ransoo area of the Reasi district. According to the police, the bus was transporting pilgrims from the Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district. It came under attack in Teryath village in the Pouni area of Reasi district, near the Rajouri district border, at approximately 6:10 p.m. on June 9.

(Based on inputs from ANI)
With less than a week left for the first session of the 18th Lok Sabha, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance and Congress-led Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) are locked in fresh war or words and claims over the election of speaker and deputy speaker of the lower house. As per the tradition, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha is elected unopposed and the opposition does not field any candidate. Likewise, the post of Deputy Speaker is given to the opposition whenever they propose a name.

However, this time it seems that traditions will be broken due to political rivalries. The INDIA bloc parties including Aam Aadmi Party, Samajwadi Party and Congress want the NDA ally TDP to take up the Speaker's post. The Congress has even said that if the BJP proposes its MP as the Speaker and not of the TDP, then the INDIA bloc will field its candidate leading to voting. The Congress also sent a feeler to the TDP saying that if the TDP nominates its candidate for the Speaker's post, then INDIA bloc parties will vote for that candidate.

On the other hand, the BJP is keen on retaining the Lok Sabha speaker's post while having agreed to give the Deputy Speaker's post to its allies - TDP or JDU. In Modi's first tenure between 2014-2019, the Deputy Speaker's post was with AIADMK's M. Thambidurai while the post remained vacant between 2019-2024. Since the opposition has got stronger this time bagging 234 seats, it is keen on getting the Deputy Speaker's post, a demand that the BJP is likely to reject. The TDP has maintained that it will back the BJP candidate for the Speaker's post and it might get the deputy post.

As far as the numbers in the Lok Sabha are concerned, the BJP-led NDA has the upper hand as the alliance has 293 seats. On the other hand, the Congress-led INDIA bloc has 234 seats. Even if the TDP switches sides, the INDIA bloc will have 250 seats compared to the NDA's 277 seats. The Congress need support from not only independent MPs but also from the YSCRP and other NDA allies to get the Deputy speaker's post.
The minimum support price (MSP) for 14 Kharif season crops, including cotton, maize, jowar, ragi, and paddy, was announced by the Union Cabinet on Wednesday. This will result in a financial gain of Rs 35,000 crore for farmers over the previous year and a financial impact of Rs two lakh crore for the government. Speaking to the media following a union cabinet meeting, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the third term of Prime Minister Modi is crucial because it emphasises continuity while bringing about many changes, including decisions for the welfare of farmers. He stated that the first two terms of the Modi administration had established a solid foundation for economic growth and that important decisions would be made in the third term for the good of the people.

"The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 14 Kharif season crops, including cotton, rice, ragi, bajra, jowar, and maize, has been approved by the Cabinet. The decision made today will provide farmers with an MSP of approximately Rs lakh crores. Compared to the previous season, this is Rs 35,000 crores more," he stated. According to the minister, the government's decisions are in line with its commitment to give farmers a price that is 50% higher than the cost of their inputs. For oilseeds and pulses, the largest absolute MSP increase over the prior year has been recommended.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed his first file authorising the release of the 17th installment of PM Kisan Nidhi, which reflects the government's commitment to farmer welfare, after taking the oath of office for the third time. During a Tuesday event in Varanasi, Prime Minister Modi distributed the 17th installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) through Direct Benefit Transfer to approximately 9.26 crore farmers who are eligible. The amount exceeds Rs 20,000 crores.
In a startling revelation related to the alleged NEET paper leak, arrested accused Anurag Yadav, who was also a candidate in the exam this year, has claimed support from a Bihar minister, whose name has not been made public yet. During the investigation, Yadav showed a letter on the letterhead of the said minister using which he stayed in an NHAI government guest house in Patna. The accused also claimed that the same set of questions he was given during his stay at the guest house for remembrance came in the NEET exam.

The accused entered the guest house on May 4 along with Reena. As per reports, Anurag Yadav and Sikandar Yadvendu are relatives. Sikandar Yadvendu is a member of the father-son duo gang behind the paper leak. Yadvendu was a junior engineer in Danapur. The entire episode shows that the Paper Leak gang had political backing as well.

Bihar Police has already arrested over a dozen people including some students in connection with the alleged paper leak. On the other hand, a special team from Muzaffarpur police will go to Jodhpur AIIMS to arrest the student who appeared as a dummy candidate in NEET exam at DAV School, Muzaffarpur. The student went missing after being caught during the exam. City SP said the school's principal is also under suspicion and will be investigated.

City SP Awadhesh Dixit said that the police will go to Jodhpur in search of a dummy candidate Hukmaram. Additionally, a police team will go to Patna in search of Raj Pandey, for whom Hukmaram was taking the exam. Raj Pandey is reported to be originally from Mithapur, Patna. Raj Pandey had agreed to pay Hukmaram 4 lakh rupees to take the NEET exam in his place. After being caught, the exam centre staff told Hukmaram to wait outside, where he managed to escape, raising suspicion about the exam centre's conduct.
Heat Stroke Death: The heat wave in North India is severe, with temperatures feeling like burning embers. In Uttar Pradesh alone, over 120 lives have been claimed by the heat this year. In Delhi, five people have died in the past 72 hours. While I don't know the circumstances of all heat-related deaths in UP, one incident makes it seem like humanity itself is burning in the scorching heat.

He Was Writhing, GRP Officers Kept Filming

This incident took place at Kanpur Central, one of the five central railway stations in the country. Head Constable Brij Kishore Singh, posted at the police line, had taken a three-day leave and arrived at the station to go home to Jhansi. It was noon, and the heat was intense. As soon as Singh entered the Kanpur Central campus, he felt dizzy and collapsed.

The Government Railway Police (GRP) were informed about Singh lying unconscious. An officer arrived but instead of providing first aid, he pulled out his phone and started filming. When he didnt get the right angle, he filmed from another.

During this time, Singh's breaths grew labored. Onlookers reprimanded the officer, who then took Singh to the hospital. By then, it was too late. Singh had succumbed to heat stroke, and perhaps humanity had too. The video circulating on social media is so insensitive that we cannot show it to you. Zee News does not confirm the authenticity of the viral video.

What Hope Do Ordinary Citizens Have?

It seems highly inhumane for one uniformed officer to treat another this way. By filming, what evidence was the GRP officer trying to gather that he couldnt think to help the suffering policeman? Fortunately, some passengers showed some courage and reminded the officer of his duty.

The eyewitnesses must have put themselves in dying BK Singhs place for a moment, feeling a chill even in the intense heat. When one police officer doesnt care about another's life, what hope does an ordinary citizen have?

Humanity Is Not the Duty of One Person Alone!

People on social media are now outraged after seeing this video from Kanpur. Some say those who were filming should be charged with murder. Others believe the officers involved should be suspended. Some are lamenting the state of the world. The truth is, similar comments surface for every such incident.

People portray themselves as morally superior on social media but often are part of the crowd that watches and records the spectacle without helping. Why is that? Is humanity the responsibility of just one person? God forbid, but imagine yourself in the place of that helpless, suffering person, and humanity will manifest in the form of fear.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead 9,00010,000 people in yoga on the shores of the well-known Dal Lake on the tenth International Yoga Day on Friday. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to arrive in Kashmir Thursday evening, security in Srinagar, the host city for the International Yoga Day celebration on June 21, has been stepped up. Particularly, areas leading to the venue have been sealed and sanitised.

All of the Srinagar district is on high alert, as per the plan. In addition to SPG, Marco commandos of the navy are stationed around the SKICC (Sher Kashmir International Convocation Centre), the site of the yearly yoga event, and hundreds of security personnel are on duty throughout the city with mobile security bunkers, sophisticated weapons, and high-tech surveillance devices.

Apart from the SPG, the city is equipped with advanced weaponry. The Sher Kashmir International Convocation Centre (SKICC), the site of the yearly yoga event, is surrounded by Marco commandos of the navy. The SKICC has restricted access for all civil and official visitors; only those with specific security passes are permitted inside. There will be a traffic advisory for the area's diversion starting tomorrow afternoon.

The CRPF, police, and other forces have increased their presence in areas near the venue, and entry points into Srinagar have been heavily patrolled by security and law enforcement personnel. To ensure that nothing untoward happens, security is severely reinforced.

There is a "temporary red zone" for drone and quadcopter operations in Srinagar, according to a statement made by the police yesterday on their official X handle.

Large crowds of athletes, officials, security personnel, and fitness enthusiasts are anticipated to attend this significant 10th International Yoga Day celebration. PM Modi is reportedly going to lead 9,00010,000 people in yoga on the shores of the renowned Dal Lake. Participants will participate virtually from all 20 districts as well.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will take part in an event in Srinagar where nearly 9,000 people will practise yoga with him, according to Union minister Dr. Jitendra Singh in Jammu. He added that there are plans to virtually connect each of Jammu and Kashmir's 20 districts.

Nearly 50,000 people will virtually connect from J&K, even if 2,000 people connect from each district. This will affect the entire state, according to Singh.

This is PM Modi's first trip to Kashmir during his third term, and he will stay the night. He is expected to meet and converse with a group of approximately 300 people upon his arrival on June 20th in order to learn about their ideas and opinions regarding the rapid development of J&K, an official said.
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)  A business conference in Baton Rouge aims to help small business owners succeed.

The Louisiana Minority Business Development Agency Business Center is hosting the EmpowerED Entrepreneurs: Accelerating Success Small Business Training Conference from July 14-15 at the Renaissance Hotel, 7000 Bluebonnet Blvd.

According to the website, a Small Business Awards Reception is set for 6-8 p.m. Sunday, July 14, and a Training Conference from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, July 15.

This conference is focused on empowering our small and minority-owned businesses with proper training and resources to help them accelerate their success  and weve got more than 20 different sessions offering knowledge for everyone, said LAMBDAs Executive Director Charletta Fortson.

Organizers said a few of the headliners include Henry Coaxum Jr., former owner of 147 McDonalds restaurants and now a real estate developer and philanthropist out of New Orleans, Nortisha Kirts Glover, owner of NRK Construction and Eric Porter, entrepreneur and instructor for the Affordable Housing Program offered by Southern Universitys EDA University. Attendees will also learn how to maximize their government contracting strategy from industry pioneer Derrick Surrat, founder of the Federal Forecasting application.

Click here to register.

Gov. Jeff Landry discusses insurance crisis, collateral sources

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CHENNAI  In a tragic incident, a youth lost his life after being hit by a car allegedly driven by the daughter of a YSRCP MP. The victim, Surya, a painter from Besant Nagar, was sleeping on the footpath of Varadarajsalai, Kalakshetra Colony, in an inebriated state Monday afternoon when a car veered onto the footpath and ran over him. Despite being rushed to the hospital by local residents, Surya succumbed to his injuries.

The car involved in the accident reportedly had two women inside. Officials said while Madhuri fled the spot immediately, her friend got off the car and argued with people who had gathered after the accident. She also left after some time. Witnesses and Surya's relatives allege that both women were intoxicated. They claim to have CCTV footage, the car's registration number, and photos of the women who fled.

Despite the substantial evidence, Surya's relatives and locals protested outside the Besant Nagar police station Monday night, demanding the arrest of those responsible. Tensions were high as they accused the police of inaction. When the police checked the CCTV footage, they found that the car belonged to the BMR (Beeda Masthan Rao) Group and was registered in Puducherry. The woman driving the car was later identified as Bida Madhuri, the daughter of YSRCP MP Bida Mastan Rao.

Surya had got married just eight months ago, adding further tragedy to the incident. Surya's relatives and people from his colony gathered at the J-5 Shastri Nagar Police Station, demanding action. Madhuri was arrested but was granted bail at the police station itself.

While MP Mastan Rao has yet to comment on the matter, full details of the incident are still awaited.

The Incident Unfolds: Tragic Loss of a Young Life

Surya, a young painter from Besant Nagar, tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run incident that has left the community in shock. The incident occurred on a Monday afternoon when Surya, in an inebriated state, was sleeping on a footpath in Varadarajsalai, Kalakshetra Colony. A car, later identified as belonging to the BMR Group, veered onto the footpath, hitting Surya. Local residents rushed him to the hospital, but he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.

Witness Accounts and Immediate Aftermath

According to witnesses, the car had two women inside at the time of the accident. Madhuri, who was allegedly driving, fled the scene immediately. Her friend, however, stayed back momentarily to argue with the crowd that had gathered before also leaving. Witnesses and Surya's relatives have stated that both women appeared intoxicated, which has been a significant point in their demands for justice.

Community Outcry and Demand for Justice

The incident sparked a significant outcry from the local community and Surya's relatives. On Monday night, they protested outside the Besant Nagar police station, demanding the immediate arrest of the individuals responsible. The protests were fueled by accusations of police inaction, which further heightened tensions.

The Role of CCTV Footage in the Investigation

CCTV footage played a crucial role in identifying the car and the individuals involved. The footage revealed the car's registration number, which led the police to discover that it was registered in Puducherry and belonged to the BMR Group. This connection led to the identification of the driver as Bida Madhuri, the daughter of YSRCP MP Bida Mastan Rao.

Arrest and Bail of Madhuri

Madhuri was subsequently arrested but was granted bail at the police station itself, which has been a point of contention for Surya's family and the local community. They feel that justice has not been served adequately, given the severity of the incident and the loss of a young life.

The Impact on Surya's Family and Community

Surya's death has left a void in his family and community. Having been married just eight months prior, the tragedy is compounded by the untimely nature of his death. The community's response, gathering in significant numbers at the J-5 Shastri Nagar Police Station, underscores the collective grief and demand for accountability.

Political and Social Implications

The involvement of the daughter of a prominent political figure, YSRCP MP Bida Mastan Rao, adds a layer of complexity to the case. The public's expectation of accountability and justice is high, and there is scrutiny on how the legal proceedings are handled.

Awaiting Full Details and Further Developments

As the investigation continues, there is a keen interest in the full details of the incident. The community and Surya's family are awaiting a thorough and transparent investigation that holds those responsible accountable.
New Delhi: Piping solutions provider Dee Development Engineers Ltd on Tuesday said it has mobilised a little over Rs 125 crore from anchor investors ahead of its initial share-sale.

The Rs 418-crore initial public offering (IPO) will open for subscription on June 19 and conclude on June 21.

According to a circular uploaded on BSE'S website, the company has allotted 61.63 lakh equity shares to 19 funds at Rs 203 apiece, aggregating to Rs 125.1 crore.

Citigroup Global Markets Mauritius, Morgan Stanley Asia (Singapore) Pte, Aurigin Master Fund, Pinebridge Global Funds, SBI General Insurance Company, are among the funds who have been allocated shares.

In addition, Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund, LIC Mutual Fund, HDFC Mutual Fund and Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund have been allocated shares in the anchor round.

The initial share sale comprises fresh issuance of equity shares worth Rs 325 crore and an offer-for-sale of 45.82 lakh equity shares valued at Rs 93 crore by promoter and CMD Krishan Lalit Bansal at the upper-end of the price band. This takes the IPO size to Rs 418 crore.

Currently, Bansal owns a 74.74 per cent stake in the company.

Shares will be available for subscription at the price range of Rs 193 to Rs 203 apiece in the IPO.

Of Rs 325 crore proceeds, Rs 175 crore will be used for payment of debt, Rs 75 crore for funding the working capital requirements, and the remaining Rs 75 crore will be used for general corporate purposes.

Dee Developments is an engineering company, providing specialised process piping solutions for industries like oil and gas, power (including nuclear), chemicals and other process industries through engineering, procurement and manufacturing.

At present, the company has seven manufacturing facilities, with three at Palwal in Haryana, one each at Anjar in Gujarat, Barmer in Rajasthan, Numaligarh in Assam and Bangkok in Thailand.

The company's customers include JGC Corporation, Nooter Eriksen, MAN Energy Solutions SE, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, John Cockerill SA, Reliance Industries, HPCLMittal Energy Ltd and Toshiba JSW Power Systems.

SBI Capital Markets and Equirus Capital are the merchant bankers to manage the company's maiden public issue.

Equity shares of the engineering company will be listed on the BSE and NSE.
New Delhi: American audio brand has launched the JBL Live Beam 3 True Wireless earbuds with a Smart charging case in India that features a 1.45-inch touchscreen display. The smart charging case provides full control of most features and functions in real-time.

Users can use the touchscreen to receive calls, view texts, manage music and get social media alerts without a mobile device or the JBL Headphones app, as the company claims. These earbuds are powered by neodymium drivers. It can offer up to 40 hours of battery life on a single charge.

The device is offered in three colour options- Blue, Silver and Black.

JBL Live Beam 3 Earbuds Price And Availability:

The earbuds are priced at Rs 24,999 in the country. However, the companys official website and Amazons microsite mentioned Rs 13,999. Consumers can buy the JBL Live Beam 3 True Wireless earbuds via major e-commerce sites along with JBLs website and offline retailers from June 21.

JBL Live Beam 3 Earbuds Battery:

Users can enjoy up to 10 hours of music playback with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) enabled, and up to 12 hours with ANC disabled. Adding further, the earbuds feature fast charging technology, providing 4 hours of playtime with just a 15-minute charge.

JBL Live Beam 3 Specifications:

The JBL Live Beam 3 features Hi-Res LDAC Wireless Audio coupled with JBL Signature Sound and Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity. It is powered by JBLs Signature Sound. The device is also equipped with a spatial audio feature available in the TWS earbuds incorporates theatre-like sound.

The TWS earbuds come with a True Adaptive Noise cancellation that allows users to optimize their audio experience with the Ear Canal Test in the dedicated JBL Headphones app. The company is claimed to offer six microphones, along with a Call Equaliser, Private Call Mode and Sound Level optimiser features, that allow users to speak on calls with clarity even in noisy environments.

Adding further, the IP55-rated TWS earbuds are packed with a Google Finder feature that assists in finding these earbuds if they are lost.
New Delhi: British consumer technology brand Nothing has announced the official launch date of the CMF Phone 1 in India. It is the first-ever smartphone by Nothing's sub-brand which is scheduled to launch on July 8 in the country. Notably, the phone will be released under the CMF by the Nothing brand.

Moreover, the company has announced that it will be hosting its next Community Update event on July 8 at 10 AM BST (2:30 PM IST). Apart from the CMF Phone 1, the company is also planning to launch the second generation CMF Buds Pro and CMF Watch Pro on the same date.

It is expected that the CMF Phone 1 is expected to be a rebranded version of the Nothing Phone 2a which was launched earlier this year.

A wonderful turn of events.



Buds Pro 2 and Watch Pro 2 join Phone 1 in the new CMF by Nothing line-up.



Learn everything at our next Community Update on 8 July 2024, 10:00 BST. pic.twitter.com/we04dldkBa  CMF by Nothing (@cmfbynothing) June 18, 2024

CMF Phone 1 specifications and price (Expected)

The smartphone is expected to be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC and arrives with up to 8GB RAM and 128GB/256GB storage. It could feature a 6.67-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It could be loaded with a 5000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging. (Also Read: JBL Live Beam 3 TWS Earbuds Launched In India With Touchscreen Display; Check Specs And Price)

The phone is expected to run on Android 14-based Nothing OS custom skin out of the box. In the camera department, the smartphone is expected to feature a dual camera set-up with a 50-megapixel primary sensor. For selfies and video chats, there is a 16MP shooter.

The CMF Phone 1 is expected to be offered in two UFS 2.2 storage variants: 128GB and 256 GB. It is rumoured that the CMF Phone 1 carries a price tag of Rs 19,999. However, the actual price may be slightly lower than the listed amount.
Hinting at Indias stance against terrorism after the Canadian parliament observed silence in the memory of the one-year anniversary of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Indian Consulate General in Vancouver announced a memorial service to pay tribute to the victims of the Air India Kanishka flight, where 329 individuals lost their lives as the flight was bombed by the pro-Khalistan organisation in 1985.

The consulate invited the Indian Diaspora to join the Kanishka Flight event on June 23 at the Air India Memorial at Stanley Park's Ceperley Playground area. In a post on 'X', the consulate posted, India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat.

Informing about the memorial service, the post added, June 23, 2024, marks the 39th anniversary of the cowardly terrorist bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), in which 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, lost their lives in one of the most heinous terror-related air disasters in the history of civil aviation.

India stands at the forefront of countering the menace of terrorism and works closely with all nations to tackle this global threat. (1/3)  India in Vancouver (@cgivancouver) June 18, 2024

Sikh militants allegedly bombed Air India's 'Kanishka' Flight 182, causing it to explode 45 minutes before its scheduled landing at London's Heathrow Airport on June 23, 1985. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of all 329 people on board, predominantly Canadians of Indian origin. The bombing was reportedly in retaliation for 'Operation Bluestar,' which aimed to remove militants from the Golden Temple in 1984.

A video released by the news agency IANS depicts members of the Canadian Parliament observing a moment of silence in the House of Commons. Speaker Greg Fergus began by announcing that after discussions among representatives of all parties in the House, they agreed to observe a moment of silence in memory of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Canada's Parliament marked the one-year anniversary of the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar by holding a moment of silence in the House of Commons on Tuesday



(Video Source - Canadian Parliament Official Website) pic.twitter.com/SGkovpiWXc  IANS (@ians_india) June 19, 2024

This comes a week after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau allegedly discussed the Nijjar Killing incident on the backdrop of the G7 Summit in Italy.

Nijjar, who was declared a terrorist by India, was fatally shot outside a Gurdwara in British Columbia last year. Following which, the Justin Trudeau-led Canadian government has accused Indian government agents of potential involvement in the killing, a claim that New Delhi has vehemently dismissed as absurd and motivated.

(Based on inputs from PTI)
UGC-NET Exam Update: The National Testing Agency (NTA) declared on Wednesday that the UGC-NET exam would be cancelled due to initial evidence suggesting a compromise in its integrity. The exam was conducted at several locations including New Delhi on Tuesday (June 18).

The Ministry of Education, Government of India, has decided to cancel the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination to uphold the utmost transparency and integrity in the examination procedure, as stated in their official announcement. The agency also informed that further notification regarding the date and schedule of the re-examination will be shared soon.

The Ministry's decision comes at a time when the NTA that conducted the NEET medical entrance exam is facing severe scrutiny due to alleged malpractices. The matter is now pending before the Supreme Court.

As per Zee News TV, there are reports of several irregularities during the conduction of the exams from Bihar. Following which the decesion of a complete termination of the exams was taken.

Around 81% of over 11.21 lakh registered candidates had appeared for the NET exam in 317 cities of the country, said UGC chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar.

Departing from previous methods, the National Eligibility Test (NET) was held in pen and paper format this time, reported PTI.

A new examination will be scheduled, and details will be provided separately, according to a senior official from the Ministry of Education (MoE).

The UGC-NET exam determines the eligibility of Indian nationals for junior research fellowships, Assistant Professor positions, and PhD admissions in Indian universities and colleges.
WASHINGTON: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in North Korea on Wednesday morning (local time) on his first official visit to the East Asian nation in 24 years and is expected to meet with his counterpart Kim Jong Un, CNN reported. This is a rare overseas trip for Putin since he launched the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, and a key moment for Kim, who has not hosted another world leader in his politically isolated country since the COVID-19 pandemic.

This visit comes after North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un extended an invitation to Putin in September 2023. Putin last visited Pyongyang in July 2000 and this trip is a sign of the two countries' deepening alignment and Moscow's need to source weapons from Pyongyang to sustain its war on Ukraine, reported CNN.

Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov also commented on his trip to North Korea during a press conference Monday and stated that his trip will have an eventful agenda. Both leaders plan to sign a new strategic partnership. Ushakov insisted the agreement is not provocative or aimed against other countries, but is meant to ensure greater stability in northeast Asia. He said the new agreement will replace documents signed between Moscow and Pyongyang in 1961, 2000 and 2001.

Putin arrives in North Korea on first state visit for over 20 years. Both of them thinking finally someone as short as me when they saw each other. Theyre a perfect 69.



Getting desperate isn't he. It's like asking your neighbour for a cup of sugar. But it's the neighbour who pic.twitter.com/FClY7Oe5M6  Imtiaz Mahmood (@ImtiazMadmood) June 18, 2024

The streets of Pyongyang were decorated with Russian flags and posters of Vladimir Putin ahead of his early Wednesday morning arrival, his first visit to North Korea since 2000. Putin's visit will be closely watched across the world and is expected to cement further the burgeoning partnership between the two powers that is founded on their shared animosity toward the West and driven by Moscow's need for munitions for its war in Ukraine.

Following his visit to North Korea, Putin is scheduled to travel to Hanoi in a display of Communist-governed Vietnam's ties to Russia that is likely to rankle the United States. Regarding Putin's visit US national security spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Monday the Biden administration wasn't "concerned about the trip" itself, but added, "What we are concerned about is the deepening relationship between these two countries."

The US, South Korea and other countries have accused North Korea of providing substantial military aid to Russia's war effort in recent months, while observers have raised concerns that Moscow may be violating international sanctions to aid Pyongyang's development of its nascent military satellite program. Both countries have denied arms transfer.

Putin's trip reciprocates one Kim made last September, when the North Korean leader travelled in his armoured train to Russia's far eastern region, for a visit that included stops at a factory that produces fighter jets and a rocket-launch facility.
We recently compiled a list of the 10 Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy Now. Since Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) is part of the list, we have discussed the stock in detail.

The Global Alcohol Industry:

In 2019, the global alcohol consumption, measured in liters of pure alcohol per person of 15 years of age or older, was 5.5 liters, which is a 4.7% relative decrease from 5.7 liters in 2010. As we mentioned in our article  20 Most Consumed Alcohols in the World  the global alcoholic beverages market size was valued at $1.62 trillion in 2021 and is projected to reach $2 trillion by 2031, with a CAGR of 2.2% during the forecast period.

The market is likely to be driven by the increasing global young-adult demographic, coupled with high disposable income and consumer demand for premium/super-premium products. Globally, beer drives the market for alcoholic beverages. Regionally, North America and Asia-Pacific are expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

Resilience of the Beverage Alcohol Industry:

As reported by Forbes, an analysis by Goldman Sachs has revealed that beer and spirits volumes in the American market have shown little correlation with economic growth. Their sales are more related to the general trends of alcohol consumption per capita rather than the general state of the economy. This is because beer and spirits are often seen as affordable luxuries or even staples.

Similarly, a Cambridge University study focused on business cycles and alcohol consumption across 24 countries over more than 50 years also found no symmetric reduction in beer and spirits consumption during recessions. The decreasing levels of average per capita income lead to very small changes in gross alcohol, wine, and beer consumption. In fact, the surge in unemployment during recessions could instead trigger an increase in the average alcohol intake. Moreover, it was also revealed that those who enjoy drinking tend to drink a lot more during the good times.

However, during times of economic difficulty, consumers tend to drink more at home as it is cheaper than hitting the bars. So while on-premise businesses suffer a decline in sales, liquor stores and online alcohol retailers tend to profit heavily.

Americans drank more alcohol also during the pandemic and this was reflected in the resultant imposts collected by the national kitty. Alcohol tax revenues collected by the U.S. Treasury Department rose by 8% in the fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, 2021, compared to the previous year, and remained well above pre-pandemic levels.

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Alcohol As a Lucrative Investment Asset:

Rare whiskeys are incredible as investment vehicles. Aptly named Liquid Gold, this beloved liquor can preserve and even increase in value during economic instabilities, inflationary periods, and recessions. One simply cannot forget about the bottle of The Macallan 1926 Valerio Adami that sold in auction for $2.7 million in November 2023, or the 1975 cask of Ardbeg single malt which was acquired by a private collector in Asia in 2022 for over $20 million, more than double the amount Glenmorangie paid for the entire Ardbeg distillery and all its stock in 1997.

The Rare Whisky 101 Apex 1000 Index tracks whiskeys that are highly sought after for collection. It has gained over 383% since 2013, against 286% gains by S&Ps famous benchmark of the top 500 companies for the same period. The RW Japanese 100 Index, on the other hand, includes 100 collector's bottles from Japan, and since 2015, the index has seen gains of more than 396%. The index includes bottles like Ichiro's Malt 'Card' Ace of Spades, Ace of Diamonds, and King of Hearts, among others.

Similarly, if we enter the realm of rare wines, the Liv-ex Burgundy 150 Index tracks the ten most recently physical vintages for 15 white and red Burgundy, including six Domaine Romanee Conti labels. The index has gained over 102% over the last five years, against around 88% gains made by the broader market during the same period.

Is Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) the Best Alcohol Stock According to Hedge Funds?

wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock.com

Methodology:

To collect data for this article, we scanned Insider Monkeys database of 920 hedge funds and picked the top 10 companies operating in the alcohol sector with the highest number of hedge fund investors. When two companies had the same number of hedge funds investing in them, we ranked them by the revenue of their last financial year instead. Following are the Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds:

1. Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ)

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 47

Constellation Brands, Inc. (NYSE:STZ) continues to be the Best Alcohol Stock in 2024, with 47 hedge fund holders in Q1 2024 boasting an overall stake value of over $2.74 billion. The New York-based company is involved in the production, import, marketing, and sale of beer, wine, and spirits across the United States, Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, and Italy. The company made headlines last summer when its Mexican beer brand, Modelo Especial, became the Top-Selling Beer in America after dethroning Bud Light. As a result, STZ reported a revenue of over $2.12 billion during its last quarter of fiscal year 2024, a significant increase of 22.7% compared to the previous year. Net income also went up by 11.7% to reach $105 million.

The U.S. beer industry saw a tough start to the year, given the poor weather conditions in the states. However, STZs beer segment, which brought in 82% of its sales in FY 2024, still reported growth of 10.9% during the last quarter. The volume demand continues to grow and the company management stating that Q1 2025 is setting us off on a really solid year suggests that they are seeing no major signs of slowdown. And while STZs Wine & Spirits segment witnessed a 5.6% decline in Q4, its smaller size minimizes the downside risk. For fiscal year 2024, Constellation Brands generated $2.8 billion in operating cash flow and was able to reduce its net leverage ratio by nearly half a point while returning over $900 million back to its shareholders through quarterly dividends and share repurchases. And although its forward dividend yield doesnt seem high at 1.51%, the company has both paid and grown its dividends for the last eight years.

Another factor helping STZ is that Americas Hispanic population is growing almost twice as fast as its general population, so brands like Modelo and Corona are expected to stay in high demand.

Overall, STZ ranks 1st on our list of the best alcohol stocks to buy. You can visit 10 Best Alcohol Stocks to Buy to see other alcohol stocks that are on hedge funds' radar. While we acknowledge the potential of STZ as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than STZ but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: Analyst Sees a New $25 Billion "Opportunity" for NVIDIA and Jim Cramer is Recommending These 10 Stocks in June.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
The creditors trying to recoup the money owed by former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani after filing for bankruptcy, want documents from the daughter of his alleged girlfriend.

A draft subpoena was filed in federal bankruptcy court on Tuesday for Vanessa Ryan, also known as Vanessa Fenderson. Ryan is the Vanessa Ryan is a daughter of Dr. Marie Ryan, who co-hosts a podcast with Giuliani, Newsweek reports.

In two previous court documents filed in June, the creditor committee has said that Dr. Ryan is Giulianis reported girlfriend, Newsweek said.

In a statement from Giulianis head of security, Michael Ragusa said: Dr. Maria Ryan is Mayor Giulianis business partner and nothing more. Any reports of her being his girlfriend are false rumors made up by the mayors enemies to damage his reputation and anyone associated with him.

According to the draft subpoena, creditors are asking Vanessa Ryan to hand over documentation that shows an alleged business relationship with Giuliani.

Ragusa had this to say about Vanessa Ryan: She is a part-time secretary who has worked for the company for over five years. These creditors are using the bankruptcy court for political persecution of Mayor Giuliani. His companies have a long-standing reputation of integrity and honesty. The bankruptcy court knows that the mayors companies have existed for many years. Mayor Giuliani has been nothing but open and honest with the bankruptcy courts. Any rumors made up by these creditors are just a smear campaign to bully the mayor.

So far, Giulianis creditors have issued at least 28 subpoenas to people tied to the former mayor.

RELATED STORIES:

Giuliani filed bankruptcy after a jury awarded Fulton County election workers Ruby Freeman and Shay Moss $148 million after they said he continued to spread lies about them tampering with votes from the 2020 election.

When Giuliani filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in December, he said he had less than $10 million in assets but more than $100 million in debt.

Last month, creditors asked a bankruptcy judge to appoint a trustee to oversee Guilianis finances because they claim he is hiding his spending and income from them.

Currently, Giuliani is living off of income that he is making from speaking events, personal services, his podcast, and his line of coffee called Rudy Coffee.

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As we reported last week, court documents have shown that Giuliani has spent more than $200,000 since filing for bankruptcy about six months ago.

During a hearing in the case Monday, creditors and the judge overseeing the case aired their Frustrations with him in court on Monday, after months of trying to get complete information on his finances.

Creditors are also urging Giuliani to sell his New York and Florida condos as soon as possible.

In a court filing last week, the creditors said they have been asking the debtor (Giuliani) to sell his New York City apartment and Florida condominium for months  The Committee was crystal clear  that the debtor should sell his non-exempt assets, like his Florida condominium, as soon as possible and stop wasting funds and resources on assets that he cannot keep.

The debtors delay and refusal to sell his multimillion-dollar homes should not be applauded, regardless of how any related upkeep expenses are paid, the document said.

RELATED NEWS:
A quantum battery is a cutting-edge technology that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to store energy. Unlike traditional batteries, which are charged by electron flows, quantum batteries utilise photons for energy storage. Although still in the early stages of development, quantum batteries hold the potential to be significantly more efficient and powerful than their electrochemical counterparts.

Quantum batteries differ fundamentally from traditional ones. While conventional batteries rely on chemical reactions to charge and discharge energy, quantum batteries are powered by quantum entanglement  a phenomenon where particles remain interconnected regardless of distance.

Ju-Yeon Gyhm, a quantum researcher at Seoul National University, explained to Giz Modo, a tech news service, that these batteries consist of multiple quantum cells that function as a single entity. The challenge lies in maintaining the quantum properties for extended periods.

A major hurdle for quantum battery technology is sustaining quantum states outside controlled research environments. Just as quantum computers face issues with maintaining their delicate states, quantum batteries must overcome similar obstacles. Achieving this would require breakthroughs akin to discovering a room-temperature superconductor.

Giz Modo reported that recent research indicates promising directions for quantum batteries. In 2018, scientists modelled the Dicke quantum battery, the first proposed in a solid-state architecture. By 2022, researchers tested a basic framework using laser light, mirrors, and a target. Late last year, another team proposed a system where quantum batteries charge in an indefinite causal order (ICO), potentially outperforming conventional charging methods. This flexibility could lead to significant gains in both energy storage and efficiency.

Different experimental setups offer various pathways to innovate quantum battery designs. For instance, a team from the University of Gdansk and the University of Calgary proposed a system to maximise energy storage while minimising dissipation. Their approach involves coupling the battery and its charger to the same reservoir, improving energy transfer efficiency.

James Quach, a quantum researcher at the University of Adelaide, explained the collective behaviour of quantum batteries to Giz Modo. Unlike conventional batteries, where molecules act individually, quantum batteries' molecules act in unison, leading to faster charging times. In 2022, Quach's team demonstrated this by charging a molecular dye with pulsed light, achieving rapid energy storage.

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Quantum batteries could revolutionise energy storage and find a place in the car of tomorrow if their technical challenges are overcome. They promise faster and more efficient charging than traditional batteries and could power mobile devices and vehicles. However, commercialisation remains a distant goal, as maintaining quantum states at scale is currently a significant challenge.

Despite these challenges, the potential of quantum batteries is undeniable. Planckian, a company dedicated to developing quantum batteries, has secured over 2.7 million in pre-seed funding and is guided by experts in condensed matter and quantum information theory from the University of Pisa and Scuola Normale Superiore in Italy.

While the technology is still in its infancy, its development could lead to a quantum leap in how we store and utilise energy, but its use on our roads is still some way off on the horizon.

Explainer: What is Islamic car finance?

Explainer: What is Right to Repair?

"Explainer: what is a quantum battery and will it revolutionise driving?" 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.
The Indian market has shown robust growth, climbing 2.3% in the last week and an impressive 45% over the past year, with earnings expected to grow by 16% annually. In such a thriving environment, identifying stocks that are trading below their intrinsic value could present attractive opportunities for investors.

Top 10 Undervalued Stocks Based On Cash Flows In India

Name Current Price Fair Value (Est) Discount (Est) Updater Services (NSEI:UDS) 290.30 476.87 39.1% Allied Digital Services (NSEI:ADSL) 147.40 227.88 35.3% IOL Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals (BSE:524164) 412.80 574.52 28.1% Mahindra Logistics (NSEI:MAHLOG) 470.30 801.15 41.3% Strides Pharma Science (NSEI:STAR) 987.75 1520.38 35% TV18 Broadcast (NSEI:TV18BRDCST) 43.00 70.84 39.3% PVR INOX (NSEI:PVRINOX) 1403.25 2214.17 36.6% Delhivery (NSEI:DELHIVERY) 398.75 612.48 34.9% Camlin Fine Sciences (BSE:532834) 108.82 156.58 30.5% Godrej Properties (NSEI:GODREJPROP) 3088.90 4581.17 32.6%

Click here to see the full list of 15 stocks from our Undervalued Indian Stocks Based On Cash Flows screener.

Underneath we present a selection of stocks filtered out by our screen

Overview: PVR INOX Limited operates as a theatrical exhibition company, focusing on the exhibition, distribution, and production of movies in India and Sri Lanka, with a market capitalization of approximately 137.69 billion.

Operations: The company generates 60.71 billion from movie exhibition and 3.17 billion from various other activities including movie production and distribution, as well as gaming.

Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 36.6%

PVR INOX, priced at 1403.25, is significantly undervalued compared to its fair value estimate of 2208.54, reflecting a potential opportunity based on discounted cash flow analysis. Despite currently trading 36.5% below its estimated fair value and showing strong future profit growth expectations with profitability anticipated within three years, challenges remain such as a lower forecast return on equity at 9.8%. Recent strategic expansions and executive changes indicate proactive management but need to translate effectively into financial performance to realize underlying value fully.

NSEI:PVRINOX Discounted Cash Flow as at Jun 2024

Overview: Shyam Metalics and Energy Limited is an integrated metal company based in India, specializing in the production and sale of long steel products and ferro alloys, both domestically and internationally, with a market capitalization of approximately 181.86 billion.

Operations: The company generates 131.95 billion primarily through the sale of iron and steel products.

Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 21.6%

Shyam Metalics and Energy, valued at 671.7, is trading under its fair value by over 20%, indicating potential undervaluation based on cash flow analysis. With revenue and earnings growth forecasts outpacing the Indian market significantly, the company shows strong future prospects. However, concerns include a low forecasted Return on Equity of 16% and poor dividend coverage by cash flows. Recent expansions in rail infrastructure and operational enhancements at acquired plants underscore efforts to bolster efficiency and capacity for sustained growth.

NSEI:SHYAMMETL Discounted Cash Flow as at Jun 2024

Overview: Strides Pharma Science Limited is a pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures, and sells products across continents including Africa, Australia, North America, Europe, Asia, and India with a market capitalization of approximately 90.79 billion.

Operations: The pharmaceutical business, excluding the bio-pharmaceutical segment, generated revenue of 40.51 billion.

Estimated Discount To Fair Value: 35%

Strides Pharma Science, with a significant turnaround in its financial performance, reported a substantial increase in quarterly sales to INR 10.84 billion and shifted from a net loss to a profit of INR 181.75 million year-over-year. This improvement is supported by robust revenue growth projections at 11.2% annually, outpacing the Indian market's average. Despite these gains, the company's Return on Equity is expected to remain low at 16.2%, suggesting potential challenges in generating shareholder value relative to its equity base. Recent executive restructuring could influence future strategic directions and operational efficiencies.

NSEI:STAR Discounted Cash Flow as at Jun 2024

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Discover the full array of 15 Undervalued Indian Stocks Based On Cash Flows right here.

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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 NSEI:PVRINOXNSEI:SHYAMMETL and NSEI:STAR.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
As global markets navigate through a period of fluctuating inflation rates and interest rate expectations, the Hong Kong small-cap sector presents a unique landscape for investors seeking value. Amidst broader market dynamics, understanding the intrinsic qualities that define promising small-cap stockssuch as robust insider buyingcan offer insightful perspectives in June 2024.

Top 10 Undervalued Small Caps With Insider Buying In Hong Kong

Name PE PS Discount to Fair Value Value Rating Xtep International Holdings 11.2x 0.8x 40.40%  Tian Lun Gas Holdings 7.2x 0.4x 22.22%  Far East Consortium International NA 0.3x 36.63%  Nissin Foods 15.3x 1.4x 35.02%  China Leon Inspection Holding 9.7x 0.7x 28.65%  China Lesso Group Holdings 4.2x 0.3x 5.22%  Transport International Holdings 11.0x 0.6x 45.53%  Abbisko Cayman NA 96.3x 35.86%  Giordano International 8.8x 0.8x 35.02%  China Overseas Grand Oceans Group 3.1x 0.1x -11.41% 

Click here to see the full list of 16 stocks from our Undervalued Small Caps With Insider Buying screener.

Underneath we present a selection of stocks filtered out by our screen.

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Nissin Foods is a company primarily engaged in the production and sale of instant noodles, with operations focused in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and other parts of Asia.

Operations: Mainland China and Hong Kong, along with other Asian regions, are significant contributors to the company's revenue, generating HK$2.47 billion and HK$1.68 billion respectively. The firm has observed a gross profit margin trend fluctuating between 30% to approximately 34% over recent periods.

PE: 15.3x

Nissin Foods, a lesser-known entity in Hong Kong's market, recently saw insider confidence bolstered as Kiyotaka Ando acquired 155,430 shares, signaling strong belief in the companys prospects. This move aligns with a robust financial trajectory indicated by a 7.34% forecasted annual earnings growth. Additionally, the appointment of experienced executives like Mr. Kiyoshi Matsuura underscores strategic leadership enhancements ahead of future challenges and opportunities. With recent dividends increased to 15.82 HK cents per share reflecting solid financial health and shareholder commitment, Nissin positions itself as an intriguing consideration amidst undervalued entities in Hong Kongs vibrant market landscape.

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SEHK:1475 Share price vs Value as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Abbisko Cayman is a company focused on the development of innovative medicines, with a market capitalization of approximately CN19.06 million.

Operations: The entity consistently records a gross profit margin of 100%, indicating that it generates CN19.06 million from its core operations without the cost of goods sold. However, it faces substantial operating expenses and R&D costs, which have led to persistent net losses, with the latest being CN431.58 million as of mid-2024.

PE: -4.3x

Abbisko Cayman, despite its limited revenue of CN19M and non-profitable outlook, recently showcased its potential through insider confidence; executives bought shares in April 2024, signaling belief in their strategic direction. This gesture coincides with the U.S. FDA's Orphan Drug Designation for their FGFR4 inhibitor, irpagratinib, aimed at treating rare liver cancerhighlighting both the companys innovative edge and niche market focus. While facing declining earnings forecasts, these developments could suggest a turnaround trajectory as they continue to push boundaries in biopharmaceuticals.

SEHK:2256 Share price vs Value as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Value Rating: 

Overview: Far East Consortium International is a diversified company engaged in property development and investment, hotel operations, and gaming across multiple regions including Hong Kong, Australia, the UK, and Southeast Asia.

Operations: Analyzing the financial trends from 2013 to 2024, the company experienced fluctuations in gross profit margin, ranging from 33.21% in June 2013 to a peak of approximately 54.81% by September 2017, before stabilizing around the mid-30% range towards the latest data point. Notably, revenue also saw significant growth during this period, increasing from HK$4.18 billion in June 2013 to HK$9.61 billion by September 2024.

PE: -18.1x

Recently, Far East Consortium International has demonstrated insider confidence, with Chairman & CEO Tat Cheong Chiu acquiring 5.89 million shares for US$7.03 million, signaling strong belief in the company's prospects. This move is particularly noteworthy given that financial assessments reveal some concerns; earnings barely cover interest payments and past shareholder dilution. However, the company's funding strategy avoids customer deposits, relying solely on external borrowingconsidered higher risk but possibly reflective of an assertive growth strategy. This blend of insider optimism and complex financial structure suggests a nuanced opportunity within Hong Kongs lesser-known equities.

SEHK:35 Share price vs Value as at Jun 2024

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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 SEHK:1475 SEHK:2256 and SEHK:35.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
A waitress in a restaurant in Stuttgart carries a tray with drinks. Germany's restaurateurs and hoteliers did better business in April than in March, despite predictions that an increase in the value-added tax (VAT) for food in restaurants this year would lead to slower sales. Bernd Weibrod/dpa

Germany's restaurateurs and hoteliers did better business in April than in March, despite predictions that an increase in the value-added tax (VAT) for food in restaurants this year would lead to slower sales.

Adjusted for price increases, turnover in real terms rose by 0.2% compared to the previous month, according to preliminary results released by the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden on Wednesday. Including price increases, the hospitality industry recorded an increase in turnover of 1.3%

Compared to April 2023, businesses recorded a nominal increase of 0.8%, thanks to higher prices. However, price-adjusted revenue fell by 2.7%, according to the figures.

The VAT was restored to 19% for food in restaurants on January 1 after being temporarily lowered to 7% during the coronavirus pandemic. This is driving prices up, with industry observers expecting more bankruptcies in the restaurant sector.

During the pandemic, the German government temporarily supported the catering industry with a reduced VAT rate. Despite industry protests, this measure expired at the end of the year.
Grant Cardone believes 'there's only 1 car' in the US that Americans should buy

There is a longstanding debate about whether it's better to buy or lease a car. Both options come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, making the decision highly dependent on individual needs, preferences, and financial circumstances.

In the eyes of real estate mogul Grant Cardone, the choice between buying and leasing cars is straightforward: lease all but one.

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Theres only one car you buy, and the rest you lease, he stated in a YouTube video earlier this year.

Cardone revealed the specific vehicle he chose to purchase and his reasons for doing so.

$150,000 Range Rover. It weighs 6,000 pounds. Section 179 of IRS says anything over 6,000 pounds, you can write off 100%. You could buy it on December 31, write it off that year, even though you didn't even drive the car, he said. Boom! $158,000 you get to write it off, that day, against your earned income, if you have self employment money, or an LLC producing other income.

He has put this strategy into action.

I would pay cash for the Ranger Rover  we did, he revealed.

Cardone, who frequently travels on a Gulfstream G650ER private jet, also embraces leasing vehicles, such as a Rolls Royce Cullinan, which starts at around $392,000.

The reason for this choice also involves tax benefits.

The Cullinan that I have is a leased vehicle. I leased it with no money. I put it on a 24-month lease  never longer than that. Whatever the payment is, if you can't handle that payment, dont do it. And then every 24 months I trade that car in. Why do I do a lease rather than own? Because I can write off 100% of that lease payment every month against my business income, he elaborated.

Now, before rushing to your nearest Range Rover dealer, let's take a closer look at the relevant tax codes from the Internal Revenue Service.

Section 179

Section 179 of the United States Internal Revenue Code allows taxpayers to elect to deduct the cost of certain types of property, including vehicles, on their income taxes as an expense rather than capitalizing and depreciating the property over time.

Story continues

To qualify for the Section 179 deduction, the vehicle must be used for business purposes more than 50% of the time. If the vehicle is used partially for business, only the percentage of business use can be deducted.

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Moreover, the IRS specifies that You cannot elect to expense more than $28,900 of the cost of any heavy sport utility vehicle (SUV) and certain other vehicles placed in service in tax years beginning in 2023.

This limit applies to any 4-wheeled vehicle primarily designed to carry passengers over public streets and highways, with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of more than 6,000 pounds but not more than 14,000 pounds.

For tax years beginning in 2024, the maximum Section 179 deduction for such vehicles is increased to $30,500.

Lease write-offs

Leasing a vehicle for business purposes can also provide tax benefits, but its important to understand the specifics of what can be written off.

To write off lease expenses, the vehicle must be primarily used for business purposes. If the vehicle is also driven for personal use, you can only deduct the portion of the lease payments that corresponds to business use. For example, if you use the vehicle 75% for business and 25% for personal use, you can deduct 75% of the lease payments.

Additionally, the IRS imposes a "lease inclusion amount" for leased vehicles with a fair market value above a specified threshold. When applicable, this amount must be accounted for in each tax year you lease the vehicle. Instead of adding this inclusion amount to your income, you reduce your deductible lease payment by this amount. The exact inclusion amount varies based on the vehicle's value and the specific tax year.

To maximize the potential tax benefits of your next vehicle purchase and ensure compliance with IRS regulations, it is best to consult a tax professional who can help you navigate the complexities of the tax code.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
Key Insights

Insiders appear to have a vested interest in Hartalega Holdings Berhad's growth, as seen by their sizeable ownership

A total of 3 investors have a majority stake in the company with 52% ownership

17% of Hartalega Holdings Berhad is held by Institutions

To get a sense of who is truly in control of Hartalega Holdings Berhad (KLSE:HARTA), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 46% to be precise, is individual insiders. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

As a result, insiders scored the highest last week as the company hit RM12b market cap following a 4.7% gain in the stock.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Hartalega Holdings Berhad, beginning with the chart below.

View our latest analysis for Hartalega Holdings Berhad

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Hartalega Holdings Berhad?

Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing.

As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in Hartalega Holdings Berhad. This can indicate that the company has a certain degree of credibility in the investment community. However, it is best to be wary of relying on the supposed validation that comes with institutional investors. They too, get it wrong sometimes. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Hartalega Holdings Berhad's earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters.

Hartalega Holdings Berhad is not owned by hedge funds. Our data suggests that Kam Kuan, who is also the company's Top Key Executive, holds the most number of shares at 40%. When an insider holds a sizeable amount of a company's stock, investors consider it as a positive sign because it suggests that insiders are willing to have their wealth tied up in the future of the company. Budi Tenggara Sdn Bhd is the second largest shareholder owning 8.6% of common stock, and Kumpulan Wang Persaraan holds about 3.2% of the company stock.

A more detailed study of the shareholder registry showed us that 3 of the top shareholders have a considerable amount of ownership in the company, via their 52% stake.

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While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily.

Insider Ownership Of Hartalega Holdings Berhad

The definition of company insiders can be subjective and does vary between jurisdictions. Our data reflects individual insiders, capturing board members at the very least. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO.

I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions.

Our information suggests that insiders maintain a significant holding in Hartalega Holdings Berhad. Insiders own RM5.7b worth of shares in the RM12b company. That's quite meaningful. Most would be pleased to see the board is investing alongside them. You may wish to access this free chart showing recent trading by insiders.

General Public Ownership

The general public-- including retail investors -- own 27% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Private Company Ownership

Our data indicates that Private Companies hold 9.7%, of the company's shares. Private companies may be related parties. Sometimes insiders have an interest in a public company through a holding in a private company, rather than in their own capacity as an individual. While it's hard to draw any broad stroke conclusions, it is worth noting as an area for further research.

Next Steps:

While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. Be aware that Hartalega Holdings Berhad is showing 1 warning sign in our investment analysis , you should know about...

If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Real estate prices surged nationwide when the pandemic hit. Bidding wars, all-cash offers, and contingency removals became commonplace.

Now, the tide has turned in some markets.

Home prices in some large US cities declined in April, according to global mortgage data and technology provider Inercontinental Exchange (ICE). San Antonio and Austin in Texas, and Tampa, Florida  among the most popular cities during the pandemic  saw the biggest monthly price declines.

The shift comes as these markets recalibrate: Homesellers and house builders are adding more listings, just as fewer Americans are relocating there.

The key differentiator we're seeing in terms of growing inventory levels in Florida and Texas is a rise in sellers' willingness to list their homes for sale, said Andy Walden, vice president of enterprise research strategy at ICE Mortgage. Nine major US markets have seen new listings exceed pre-pandemic averages, he said, and eight of those are in Texas or Florida.

San Antonio, Texas, USA skyline. (SeanPavonePhoto via Getty Images)

A new supply and demand landscape

Monthly home prices declined the most in San Antonio at 0.3% in April, followed by 0.25% in Austin, and 0.16% in Tampa, according to ICE Mortgage.

The cool-downs are a sharp turnaround from when home prices skyrocketed. Austin home prices soared almost 70% between 2020 and 2022, while San Antonio rose 40% and Tampa rose 60%, according to ICE Mortgage data.

Allan Griego, owner of Austin Market Realty, told Yahoo Finance that when COVID hit, homebuyers were making offers 5% to 20% over asking prices, inflating the market with a hyper-accelerated value that was not sustainable."

The confluence of two events pushed supply and demand out of whack: Many folks moved to these markets for more space during the pandemic, but local homeowners stopped selling.

The number of available homes-for-sale cratered. The lowest monthly active listing counts between 2020 and 2022 were 1,400 in Austin, 2,600 in San Antonio, and 3,000 in Tampa  they represented a 67% to 80% inventory deficit compared to averages during 2017 to 2019. Meanwhile, inbound migration surged. The population grew by tens and hundreds of thousands in these cities.

All that, too, is changing.

In May, active listings reached 10,000 in Austin, 11,000 in San Antonio, and 15,000 in Tampa. The number of days homes are sitting on the market is higher than the national average, indicating these markets are leaning toward buyers.

One factor is a lack of affordable property insurance, which is pressuring more homeowners to sell, Walden said. The average property insurance premium in Florida and Texas were $11,000 and $4,500 in 2023, well above the national average of $2,400. Severe weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods have led to an insurance premium surge in these two markets.

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Homebuilders have also been ramping up development in the South. Florida and Texas saw the highest number of housing approved to build in April, according to permit data from the US Census Bureau. Year to date, Florida and Texas have 62,000 and 77,000 approved housing units, respectively. Each of the two states had about twice as many units permitted compared to the third-highest state, North Carolina.

You have a lot of builders coming in and building new home inventory, Jeremiah Taylor, chief real estate officer at the real estate platform Movoto, told Yahoo Finance. He added that markets like Austin have more landmass to sprawl, a factor contributing to growing inventory.

There is also less demand for housing as fewer Americans are moving to Texas and Florida. While many households still favor the South, moving data shows they now prefer Tennessee, the Carolinas, and Georgia over Texas and Florida. Austin is even experiencing an exodus, ranking as the fifth highest move-out city in 2024, according to moving company Pods.

"The affordability factor that a lot of people were drawn to in Austin has disappeared to some degree," Griego said. "Cost of living increased, so it watered down some of the allure of Austin."

Palm Trees Before A Tropical Storm or Hurricane (lisatop via Getty Images)

Not a market crash

Experts say the cities' price declines dont portend a crash.

"Those same markets were growing exponentially more than other markets," said Matt Vernon, head of consumer lending at Bank of America. "So the fact that they're now beginning to come down is just a normalization."

Griego said "overnight," hyperinflated prices flooded the Austin market and increased home values beyond what was sustainable during the pandemic. The incremental declines suggest Austin is adjusting back to normal housing market.

Even factoring in recent drops, these pandemic boomtowns have experienced generous average annual price growth over the last four years 11% in Austin, 9% in San Antonio, and 14% for Tampa. The historical US average growth rate is 5.5%.

[Pandemic boomtowns] saw just such a massively outsized price increase to the rest of the country that you can actually make somewhat of a case that this softness is just a reversion to the mean, Taylor said. It got a little oversold.

Rebecca Chen is a reporter for Yahoo Finance and previously worked as an investment tax certified public accountant (CPA).

Click here for the latest personal finance news to help you with investing, paying off debt, buying a home, retirement, and more

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Home Sales Suffer Third Worst Month In The Last 10 Years

May marked one of the worst months for home sales in the past decade, with sales plummeting to their third-lowest level.



Continuing a trend seen over the last eight months, the drop in home sales comes as the market deals with high home prices, elevated mortgage rates, and a persistent housing shortage that has deterred prospective buyers. Despite a record high in the median U.S. home sale price during May, the market saw a 1.7% month-over-month decrease and a 2.9% decline from the previous year, according to a report issued by Redfin on Friday, as conditions continue to challenge buyers and sellers across the country.



Despite broad market challenges, some regions are seeing fluctuations that suggest a more nuanced recovery pattern across different metro areas. While the overall national trend points to a decline, individual markets show varied responses to the current economic pressures.

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"Buyers today are facing many of the realities of a hot market even though few homes are changing hands," said Redfin Senior Economist Elijah de la Campa in the report. Sales are sluggish because high homebuying costs are making both house hunters and prospective sellers skittish. With so few homes for sale, buyers in some markets are getting into bidding wars, which is helping push home prices to record highs."



These markets include hot spots in California and Minnesota.



San Jose, for instance, saw a 16.6% rise in closed home sales, leading the pack among U.S. metro areas that Redfin tracked. The increase was closely followed by Minneapolis, which saw an 11.7% rise, and San Francisco, where home sales increased by 10.5%.



However, the increases contrast with cities like Stockton, California, and Buffalo, New York, where sales plummeted by over 15%.

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To that end, some sellers are reducing prices to offload properties in cooler markets. Particularly in markets inundated with new construction, like Tampa and Denver, a large percentage of listings saw price reductions. In Indianapolis, almost half the listed homes had price cuts, reflecting an aggressive response to cooling demand.

Story continues

Conversely, markets with tight supply still see homes sell above the list price. In Rochester, New York, 77.1% of homes sold above their final list price, indicating strong buyer competition driven by a scarcity of available properties.



Experts say the fix to this issue is increasing supply, which is improving slowly but is still far from meeting the demand in many areas. New listings, up 8.8% from the previous year, remain about 20% below pre-pandemic levels.



Active listings have seen a modest increase, which could relieve some pressure, but the market is still fundamentally constrained.



The Redfin senior economist suggested that the market might see an uptick in activity later in the year if mortgage rates decline. However, that prediction is cautious and hinges on moves that the Federal Reserve might make, including a reduction in the Fed Funds rate, which directly impacts buyer affordability.

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This article Home Sales Suffer Third Worst Month In The Last 10 Years originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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After getting placed on a U.S. trade blacklist in 2019, Huawei Technologies was forced to quickly develop local alternatives to keep its business going. Now, years later, these homegrown products are proving lucrative enough to reportedly become their own sources of revenue.

Huawei released its mobile operating system, HarmonyOS, in 2019, shortly after the U.S. placed the Chinese tech company on a trade blacklist that cut off its access to Googles Android. While Huawei based initial versions of HarmonyOS on Android, the latest version of the operating system will shut out Android apps. It could be rolled out on Huawei phones later this year.

HarmonyOS is quickly muscling in on Chinas smartphone market. Its now the second-most-used operating system there in just under five years, according to a recent report from market research firm Counterpoint. HarmonyOS had 17% market share during the first quarter of the year, ahead of Apples iOS with 16%. Googles Android is still by far the most popular mobile OS, with a 68% share of the market.

That quick ascent could be giving Huawei confidence to start charging rent. Huawei currently does not charge a fee for developers to use HarmonyOS. But the tech company is now considering charging developers a 20% cut of their proceeds, Bloomberg reports.

Apple and Google both charge developers commission rates between 15% and 30%.

A Huawei spokesperson said Bloombergs report was untrue, though did not provide specifics.

Much of Huaweis recent comeback has focused on its hardware rather than software. The Shenzhen-based tech firms smartphone business has surged since the release of its Mate 60 series smartphone last August, featuring a domestically produced chip in spite of U.S. sanctions. The companys latest high-end smartphone, the Pura 70, also sold out quickly after its launch in April.

Huaweis return is chipping away at the iPhones market share in China, according to data from market research firms.

Huawei is reportedly expected to release its Mate 70 around September or October.

Update June 18, 2024: This story has been updated with a comment from Huawei.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Hyundai Motor was scheduled to begin local assembly of luxury Genesis models in Kazakhstan later this year to strengthen its presence in this important Central Asian market.

According to local reports, distributor Astana Motors KMC recently completed an upgrade of its Hyundai Trans Kazakhstan plant in the capital city Almaty, ahead of Genesis build later this year.

The plant was originally completed in 2020 to assemble Hyundai models imported in kit form from South Korea - the Sonata and Santa Fe.

The factory, which has body welding and painting facilities, so can assemble CKD kits, was understood to have annual capacity for around 45,000 vehicles on a single shift. It was expected to produce several hundred Genesis models each year, including the G90 flagship.

Hyundai Motor CEO Chang Jae-hoon visited the plant earlier this year, with a view to also bringing in South Korean parts makers to support local production.

Astana Motors CEO Beknur Muratovich said in a statement: The commercial production of Genesis' main models will begin this fall, adding the company was also building Genesis showrooms in major cities ahead of sales operations.

Separate reports suggested total vehicle sales in the country rose 60% to just under 200,000 units last year, driven by GDP growth of over 5%, with combined sales by Hyundai and sister company Kia reported to have exceeded 71,000 units.

Demand for high-end cars in Kazakhstan has also increased sharply in the last two years, with suggestions some are finding their way into the Russian grey market.

"Hyundai to launch Genesis assembly in Kazakhstan" 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.
Finding a business that has the potential to grow substantially is not easy, but it is possible if we look at a few key financial metrics. Amongst other things, we'll want to see two things; firstly, a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and secondly, an expansion in the company's amount of capital employed. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. With that in mind, the ROCE of Qantas Airways (ASX:QAN) looks great, so lets see what the trend can tell us.

Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)

For those that aren't sure what ROCE is, it measures the amount of pre-tax profits a company can generate from the capital employed in its business. The formula for this calculation on Qantas Airways is:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.30 = AU$2.5b  (AU$19b - AU$11b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2023).

Thus, Qantas Airways has an ROCE of 30%. That's a fantastic return and not only that, it outpaces the average of 8.8% earned by companies in a similar industry.

See our latest analysis for Qantas Airways

roce

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Qantas Airways compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free analyst report for Qantas Airways .

What Can We Tell From Qantas Airways' ROCE Trend?

You'd find it hard not to be impressed with the ROCE trend at Qantas Airways. The figures show that over the last five years, returns on capital have grown by 139%. That's not bad because this tells for every dollar invested (capital employed), the company is increasing the amount earned from that dollar. In regards to capital employed, Qantas Airways appears to been achieving more with less, since the business is using 22% less capital to run its operation. Qantas Airways may be selling some assets so it's worth investigating if the business has plans for future investments to increase returns further still.

On a side note, we noticed that the improvement in ROCE appears to be partly fueled by an increase in current liabilities. The current liabilities has increased to 57% of total assets, so the business is now more funded by the likes of its suppliers or short-term creditors. And with current liabilities at those levels, that's pretty high.

Story continues

The Key Takeaway

From what we've seen above, Qantas Airways has managed to increase it's returns on capital all the while reducing it's capital base. Investors may not be impressed by the favorable underlying trends yet because over the last five years the stock has only returned 17% to shareholders. Given that, we'd look further into this stock in case it has more traits that could make it multiply in the long term.

Qantas Airways does come with some risks though, we found 2 warning signs in our investment analysis, and 1 of those is a bit concerning...

If you'd like to see other companies earning high returns, check out our free list of companies earning high returns with solid balance sheets 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.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Key Insights

The projected fair value for McMillan Shakespeare is AU$34.42 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of AU$17.25 suggests McMillan Shakespeare is potentially 50% undervalued

Analyst price target for MMS is AU$21.27 which is 38% below our fair value estimate

Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of McMillan Shakespeare Limited (ASX:MMS) as an investment opportunity by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. 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 McMillan Shakespeare

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 begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) AU$89.3m AU$119.7m AU$132.9m AU$121.1m AU$125.5m AU$126.7m AU$128.4m AU$130.5m AU$132.9m AU$135.5m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x4 Analyst x4 Analyst x4 Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ 0.99% Est @ 1.37% Est @ 1.64% Est @ 1.82% Est @ 1.95% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 6.9% AU$83.5 AU$105 AU$109 AU$92.7 AU$89.9 AU$84.9 AU$80.5 AU$76.5 AU$72.9 AU$69.5

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$864m

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (2.3%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 6.9%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = AU$135m (1 + 2.3%)  (6.9% 2.3%) = AU$3.0b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$3.0b ( 1 + 6.9%)10= AU$1.5b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is AU$2.4b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of AU$17.3, the company appears quite undervalued at a 50% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

dcf

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. 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 McMillan Shakespeare as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.9%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.008. 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 McMillan Shakespeare

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is well covered by earnings.

Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market.

Weakness

Earnings growth over the past year is below its 5-year average.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years.

Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%.

Threat

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Dividends are not covered by earnings.

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the Australian market.

Next Steps:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For McMillan Shakespeare, we've put together three pertinent elements you should further research:

Risks: Every company has them, and we've spotted 3 warning signs for McMillan Shakespeare you should know about. Future Earnings: How does MMS's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Australian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Amidst a backdrop of fluctuating global markets, the Hong Kong stock exchange continues to present intriguing opportunities for investors. High insider ownership in growth companies is often seen as a positive indicator of confidence in the company's future prospects, aligning closely with current market trends that favor technology and growth-oriented sectors.

Top 10 Growth Companies With High Insider Ownership In Hong Kong

Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth iDreamSky Technology Holdings (SEHK:1119) 20.1% 104.1% Fenbi (SEHK:2469) 32.4% 43% Zylox-Tonbridge Medical Technology (SEHK:2190) 18.5% 79.3% Adicon Holdings (SEHK:9860) 22.3% 29.6% Tian Tu Capital (SEHK:1973) 34% 70.5% DPC Dash (SEHK:1405) 38.2% 89.7% Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) (SEHK:2315) 13.9% 100.1% Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology (SEHK:9863) 15% 76.5% Beijing Airdoc Technology (SEHK:2251) 28.2% 83.9% Lianlian DigiTech (SEHK:2598) 19.4% 84.2%

Click here to see the full list of 51 stocks from our Fast Growing SEHK Companies With High Insider Ownership screener.

Let's dive into some prime choices out of from the screener.

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: BYD Company Limited operates in the automobile and battery sectors across China, including Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and internationally, with a market capitalization of approximately HK$754.99 billion.

Operations: The company's revenue is generated primarily from its automobile and battery sectors.

Insider Ownership: 30.1%

Earnings Growth Forecast: 14.8% p.a.

BYD, a prominent growth company in Hong Kong with high insider ownership, has demonstrated robust performance with a 52.7% increase in earnings over the past year. Despite this strong growth, forecasts suggest more moderate future expansions, with expected annual revenue and profit growth rates at 14% and 14.8%, respectivelyboth figures surpassing local market averages but not reaching significantly high levels. The company's strategic moves include amending its bylaws and consistently increasing dividends, indicating stable governance and shareholder value focus. Recent sales data show significant volume increases year-over-year, reinforcing its market position amidst expanding operations like the launch of BYD SHARK in Mexico.

SEHK:1211 Ownership Breakdown as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: J&T Global Express Limited, primarily an investment holding company, provides express delivery services and has a market capitalization of approximately HK$77.11 billion.

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Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from its air freight transportation segment, totaling HK$8.85 billion.

Insider Ownership: 20.2%

Earnings Growth Forecast: 102.9% p.a.

J&T Global Express, a growth-oriented firm in Hong Kong with significant insider ownership, has seen substantial revenue growth of 21.8% over the past year. Despite a forecasted modest return on equity at 17.9%, the company's earnings are expected to surge by 102.86% annually. This performance is particularly notable as J&T's revenue growth rate of 15.9% per year outpaces the local market average of 7.8%. Recent board changes and strong parcel volume underline its dynamic operational environment and strategic adaptability.

SEHK:1519 Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Meituan is a technology retail company based in the People's Republic of China, with a market capitalization of approximately HK$751.32 billion.

Operations: The company generates revenue through technology retail operations in China.

Insider Ownership: 11.4%

Earnings Growth Forecast: 31.5% p.a.

Meituan, a company with high insider ownership, demonstrates robust growth potential in Hong Kong. Its revenue is expected to increase by 12.7% annually, outpacing the local market's 7.8%. Notably, earnings have surged by a very large percent over the past year and are projected to grow at 31.5% per year. Recent financials show a significant rise in quarterly sales to CNY 73.28 billion and net income to CNY 5.37 billion, reflecting strong operational performance despite substantial one-off items impacting results.

SEHK:3690 Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Jun 2024

Next Steps

Click this link to deep-dive into the 51 companies within our Fast Growing SEHK Companies With High Insider Ownership screener.

Shareholder in one or more of these companies? Ensure you're never caught off-guard by adding your portfolio in Simply Wall St for timely alerts on significant stock developments.

Simply Wall St is your key to unlocking global market trends, a free user-friendly app for forward-thinking investors.

Interested In Other Possibilities?

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 analysis only considers stock directly held by insiders. It does not include indirectly owned stock through other vehicles such as corporate and/or trust entities. All forecast revenue and earnings growth rates quoted are in terms of annualised (per annum) growth rates over 1-3 years.

Companies discussed in this article include SEHK:1211 SEHK:1519 and SEHK:3690.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Key Insights

Leong Hup International Berhad's estimated fair value is RM0.47 based on Dividend Discount Model

Leong Hup International Berhad's RM0.62 share price signals that it might be 33% overvalued

The RM0.78 analyst price target for LHI is 67% more than our estimate of fair value

Does the June share price for Leong Hup International Berhad (KLSE:LHI) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. The Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model is the tool we will apply to do this. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for Leong Hup International Berhad

What's The Estimated Valuation?

We have to calculate the value of Leong Hup International Berhad slightly differently to other stocks because it is a food company. Instead of using free cash flows, which are hard to estimate and often not reported by analysts in this industry, dividends per share (DPS) payments are used. Unless a company pays out the majority of its FCF as a dividend, this method will typically underestimate the value of the stock. The 'Gordon Growth Model' is used, which simply assumes that dividend payments will continue to increase at a sustainable growth rate forever. The dividend is expected to grow at an annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 3.6%. We then discount this figure to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.6%. Compared to the current share price of RM0.6, the company appears potentially overvalued at the time of writing. 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.

Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate)

= RM0.02 / (8.6%  3.6%)

= RM0.5

dcf

Important Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Leong Hup International Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.6%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

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SWOT Analysis for Leong Hup International Berhad

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Food market.

Opportunity

Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to decline for the next 3 years.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. What is the reason for the share price exceeding the intrinsic value? For Leong Hup International Berhad, we've compiled three further items you should explore:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Leong Hup International Berhad (1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does LHI's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
As an investor its worth striving to ensure your overall portfolio beats the market average. But in any portfolio, there are likely to be some stocks that fall short of that benchmark. We regret to report that long term Magna International Inc. (TSE:MG) shareholders have had that experience, with the share price dropping 49% in three years, versus a market return of about 16%. Furthermore, it's down 22% in about a quarter. That's not much fun for holders.

Now let's have a look at the company's fundamentals, and see if the long term shareholder return has matched the performance of the underlying business.

See our latest analysis for Magna International

To paraphrase Benjamin Graham: Over the short term the market is a voting machine, but over the long term it's a weighing machine. One way to examine how market sentiment has changed over time is to look at the interaction between a company's share price and its earnings per share (EPS).

During the three years that the share price fell, Magna International's earnings per share (EPS) dropped by 1.7% each year. This reduction in EPS is slower than the 20% annual reduction in the share price. So it's likely that the EPS decline has disappointed the market, leaving investors hesitant to buy.

You can see below how EPS has changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image).

We know that Magna International has improved its bottom line lately, but is it going to grow revenue? If you're interested, you could check this free report showing consensus revenue forecasts.

What About Dividends?

It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR incorporates the value of any spin-offs or discounted capital raisings, along with any dividends, based on the assumption that the dividends are reinvested. It's fair to say that the TSR gives a more complete picture for stocks that pay a dividend. In the case of Magna International, it has a TSR of -44% for the last 3 years. That exceeds its share price return that we previously mentioned. This is largely a result of its dividend payments!

A Different Perspective

Magna International shareholders are down 18% for the year (even including dividends), but the market itself is up 13%. However, keep in mind that even the best stocks will sometimes underperform the market over a twelve month period. On the bright side, long term shareholders have made money, with a gain of 1.0% per year over half a decade. It could be that the recent sell-off is an opportunity, so it may be worth checking the fundamental data for signs of a long term growth trend. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Magna International , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

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For those who like to find winning investments this free list of undervalued companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Canadian exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
BALTIMORE  Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson has taken a job with a Baltimore-based solar power company, a move he believes can give him valuable energy expertise as the state moves from reliance on fossil fuels to a renewable energy future.

The Baltimore City Democrat started about a month ago as senior vice president and counsel for CI Renewables. The company owns and develops large-scale commercial and industrial solar power facilities and recently announced it will design projects for University of Maryland, Baltimore and University of Maryland Medical System.

At CI Renewables, Ferguson will be largely responsible for reviewing transactional documents, such as power purchase and lease agreements for solar development deals.

He said in an interview Tuesday that he was attracted to the field because he can tap into his legal background and because of his interest in navigating an energy transition in a way that is realistic, financially viable and equitable. And he said he sees it as a good fit with his legislative commitments.

I get to learn more about the dynamics of the industry as well as hopefully help get more renewable energy built on our grid in the mid-Atlantic, he said.

Outside his Senate job, Ferguson had worked for the past three years as a program director for nonprofit America Achieves, leading a state recovery initiative that emerged in the wake of the pandemic. But he said he had been looking for something more permanent. Fergusons state salary for 2024 is $70,705, according to state records.

His latest role outside the legislature comes about two years after the General Assembly passed the Climate Solutions Now Act, setting a target for the state to reduce its output of greenhouse gas emissions 60% by 2031.

In December, state environment officials released a blueprint calling for new policies, such as requiring more electricity to be generated by renewable sources such as solar power, and about $1 billion per year in extra funding.

Legislators, who are considered part-time and, for most of them, work other jobs, are required to recuse themselves from voting on bills if an issue directly impacts an employer. But Ferguson said he doesnt expect to face such conflicts.

Part of the reason of it being a part-time legislature that in its creation, citizens are supposed to bring their expertise from what they do in their lives outside of the legislature, Ferguson said. For the most part, we want people with expertise in various industries.

CI Renewables recently reached a power purchase agreement with University of Maryland Medical System to design, install and maintain solar energy parking lot canopies at three corporate locations. The project, which includes two office buildings in Linthicum, is expected to help the medical system generate more than $12 million in savings in electricity and parking lot maintenance over a decade.

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Along with other carbon free or low carbon renewable energy sources, the solar canopy project will allow the health system to move to using 48% renewable energy, UMMS said in an April announcement.

Ferguson said his first few weeks with CI Renewables has shown him just how hard and complex these projects are to get to fruition, to get operational.  Its been a bit eye-opening just how complicated it is to transition to more renewable sources.
Milwaukee County's Marcia P. Coggs Human Services Center, 1220 W. Vliet St., could be converted into affordable apartments.

A historic former department store converted into Milwaukee County offices would be redeveloped into 65 affordable apartments and commercial space under a new plan.

The three-story, 212,000-square-foot Marcia P. Coggs Human Services Center, 1220 W. Vliet St., is being replaced by a new facility under construction next door. That new building, which will bear the Coggs name and house the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services, is set to open in 2025.

Meanwhile, the county has accepted a purchase option for the current facility from Gorman & Co., an affordable apartments developer based in the Madison area. The pending sale price is $1 million.

Gorman plans to build around 65 affordable apartments, as well as commercial space for Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services and a small cafe, according to a Tuesday announcement from County Executive David Crowley's office.

"Gorman & Company was selected for their development experience, property management reputation, commitment to racial equity, and capacity to pursue this development that includes larger, family-serving affordable units," the announcement said.

A new Milwaukee Common Council resolution calls for creating a nearby parking lot at 1515 and 1519 N. 13th St. to help support the Coggs Center project.

The council's Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee is to consider the parking lot proposal at its June 25 meeting.

The committee also will consider a proposal to designate the Coggs Center as historic.

The Historic Preservation Commission recently endorsed that proposal. That status would require commission approval for any exterior building alterations.

It's a big change from just two years ago  when county officials were considering a demolition of the Coggs Center.

The apartments would be financed in part through federal affordable housing tax credits, which are provided through an annual competition.

Developers receiving those credits must provide most of the apartments at below-market rents to people generally earning no more than 60 percent of the area median income.

The credits are sold to raise equity financing. A developer then typically obtains a bank loan, and perhaps other cash sources, to complete the financing.

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority usually announces the annual tax credit awards by May.

The Coggs Center was initially a Schuster's Department Store that was built in 1910, according to the Wisconsin Historical Society. The store closed in 1961, and the building was purchased in 1963 by Milwaukee County.

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The sale of the Coggs Center to Gorman is expected to be completed by June 2025.

Tom Daykin can be emailed at tdaykin@jrn.com and followed on Instagram, X and Facebook.

Subscribe to get the BusinessWatch email newsletter.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee's Coggs Center could be converted to affordable apartments
The future of energy may depend on technology with roots in the video game industry, by a company founded more than 30 years ago that wanted to use accelerated computing to improve the look and feel of the gaming experience. Jensen Huang, NVIDIA's CEO and president since co-founding the Santa Clara, California-based company in 1993, said "we were always looking for ways to get the adoption of accelerated computing in more applications" as he talked about advanced computing and artificial intelligence (AI) during a keynote session at Edison Electric Institute's (EEI's) 2024 conference. The event at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, began June 18 and runs through June 20. EEI, organized in 1933, is an association that represents all U.S. investor-owned electric companies. Pedro Pizarro, president and CEO of Edison International, the parent of Southern California Edison, one of the nation's largest electric utilities, introduced Huang and reminded the NVIDIA founder of a remark he made several years ago about his company being "30 days from going out of business." "That was just an observation," joked Huang, wearing his trademark leather jacket during his talk Tuesday that kicked off the EEI event. Forbes reported that Huang's net worth increased by more than $4 billion on Tuesday, as the company's stock continues its meteoric rise, making NVIDIA the world's most valuable public company. Forbes said Huang is now the 11th-richest person in the world, with a net worth of about $119 billion.

Demand for Electricity Rising

Pizarro told the crowd, "We are seeing electricity demand, which had been fairly flat for many years, now really taking off. This has given you a unique perspective about the intersection between the energy industry and the technology industry." "My guess is energy consumption goes up quite substantially," said Huang. "The implication of the [artificial] intelligence that is created will reduce waste, and, hopefully, less carbon. This will, hopefully, create greater productivity and increase the size of industries. I think the future of intelligence is quite high, and then the future of energy is quite high." [caption id="attachment_220162" align="alignnone" width="640"]

Jensen Huang (left), CEO of NVIDIA, and Pedro Pizarro of Edison International discuss the future of power generation during the opening keynote session of EEI's 2024 conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. Source: Darrell Proctor[/caption] Huang said his company's growth is tied to "always looking for ways to get the adoption of accelerated computing in more applications. The first thing that we're doing is that we're accelerating every application we can. And when we accelerate an application, not only do we speed it up, we reduce the cost of computing, we reduce the energy consumed by a lot." Huang told the EEI audience that his company, which designs and supplies chips, systems, and software for a variety of markets, including AI and increasingly energy, always follows this mantra: "The great decision that we make, when you see something important, you have to ask, 'But why? What are the interesting problems that we need to solve?' We just kept up with that, and expanded the power of computing by about a million X."

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Digitization Driving the Industry

The digitization of the power generation sector means NVIDIA is having a greater impact on electric utilities and the energy industry. Said Huang, "One day AI researchers realized you could scrape the Internet for the whole of human knowledge, and that brought ChatGPT," the chatbot and virtual assistant launched in late 2022. "Computing had been using a general purpose approach for years, and we now know that using a general purpose tool is not energy efficient. We knew that when we make something more efficient, and cost-effective, the usage will go up." Huang said that "digital intelligence has so much value to humanity ... it's going to be the next big driver of energy consumption. AI doesn't care where it goes to school. You can create energy on the grid, off the grid, and away from the grid. That's the future." Pizarro noted how utilities are benefiting from smart meter technology, and the use of AI in their operations. He said it's enabling power generators to design systems "connecting power supply to power demand." "Today's energy consumption is limited," said Huang. "The limits of that consumption is indexed to population, but the value of intelligence is indexed to industry. And you have to answer the question, 'What percentage of industrial intelligence if of value?' Like previous industrial revolutions, this industrial revolution is going to drive productivity like never before. Huang added that industry can get less waste, and greater productivity from digital intelligence, which will "make the energy industry more efficient." He said AI will replace some industry jobs, but it create many more. "Most companies that I know, when they become more productive ... they become more profitable and hire more people. It's very rare that industries pair profitability with layoffs," he said. Huang added, though, that "the greatest impact will be applying AI to the delivery of the energy." He noted his company is working with EEI, Utilidata, and Oregon utility Portland General Electric on the integration of AI to the power grid. "In a lot of ways, your power networks are going to become like app stores, like Uber, connecting power supply to users," in the same way Uber connects drivers to riders seeking a destination. Said Pizarro, noting NVIDIA's influence in driving innovative technology: "We have a lot more advancement to do, and we look forward to partnering with NVIDIA on the future." Darrell Proctor is a senior associate editor for POWER (@POWERmagazine).
Good morning. Nvidia on Tuesday surpassed Microsoft to become the most valuable company in the world, reaching a market capitalization of $3.34 trillion to edge out Microsofts $3.32 trillion.

In the first week of June, CEO Jensen Huang saw his firm hit a $3 trillion market cap for the first time, surpassing Apple. The Santa Clara, Calif.-based chipmaker, whose highly sought-after semiconductors help power AI-related computing tasks at massive data centers, has dominated the market. Over the past year, shares of Nvidia have surged more than 200%.

The Godfather of AI, Jensen, and Nvidia are leading this AI revolution, and its a race to $4 trillion market capwith Nvidia, Microsoft, and Apple battling for the No. 1 spot, Dan Ives, managing partner at Wedbush Securities, told me on Tuesday.

Huang cofounded Nvidia in 1993 with Chris Malachowsky and Curtis Priem. About 34.5% of the S&P 500s market cap gains so far this year can be attributed to Nvidia alone, according to Apollo Global Management chief economist Torsten Slk, Fortune previously reported.

On May 22, Nvidia reported results for the quarter ended April 28, and it showed no signs of slowing down. On the earnings call, Nvidia EVP and CFO Colette Kress said revenue for the quarter was $26 billion, up 18% sequentially and up 262% year on year, and well above the company's outlook of $24 billion.

The CFO leadership at Nvidia from Colette Kress has been instrumental in Nvidia's success with Wall Street, and is key to Jensen's vision, Ives told me. She is extremely well respected both internally at Nvidia and across the tech industry.

Kress joined Nvidia in 2013 as CFO after serving nearly 25 years in a range of finance roles at major technology companies. She previously was CFO of Ciscos Business Technology and Operations Finance organization, and she spent 13 years at Microsoft, including four years as CFO of the server and tools division.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Kress in 2022, and we discussed how the rest of her career prepared her to move to Nvidia.

Heres what she told me:

My career background did serve me well. When I started at Nvidia, it was the smallest company that Id ever worked for. Its gotten quite large, but the focus is on how do you think about the future and make sure were ready for it to scale?

Some of the techniques and processes have to be transformed over time as the company scales. How do we digitize manual processes? Our fast growth rate has put that front and center for us. Particularly, in my role leading finance, and the sister and brother organizations around me, Im looking to them to say, Hey, we need to revise a process, how the functions work together, to create digital solutions.

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When looking back at my career of 30-plus years, whats fascinating now is there are so many different ways to do things that never existedeven at some of the largest companies that Ive worked at in the past."

She now works at the largest company. And she's clearly a big reason why.

Sheryl Estrada

sheryl.estrada@fortune.com

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Nvidia's (NASDAQ: NVDA) recent stock split lowered the price of each individual share after the high-flying stock reached beyond $1,000 and ever since that split a little more than a week ago, the shares have advanced about 12%. This momentum has helped the chip designer reach an enormous milestone. Nvidia just passed Microsoft to become the world's most valuable company with a market value topping $3.33 trillion as of market close on Tuesday -- that's compared to the rival software giant's $3.31 trillion market capitalization.

There's been a good reason for Nvidia's standout performance in recent times: its dominance in the billion-dollar artificial intelligence (AI) chip market. The company holds an 80% share and this has helped earnings -- and clearly share price -- to soar. After the enormous gain, and as Nvidia steps ahead of Microsoft, the question now is: Is it too late to invest in this AI chip giant? Let's find out.

Image source: Getty Images.

How Nvidia has come this far

Nvidia's graphics processing units (GPUs) once were best known for powering video games and this helped Nvidia remain financially successful over time. But the AI boom marked a turning point for the company as potential customers realized how particularly well-suited Nvidia's GPUs were to crucial AI tasks. This is thanks to the GPU's ability to process many jobs simultaneously, making this chip ideal for things like the training and inferencing of AI models.

But Nvidia hasn't stopped with the GPU and instead created a broad range of products and services -- such as enterprise software -- to support AI customers along the development path. And this has resulted in triple-digit increases in revenue and profit in recent quarters. For example, in the past quarter, Nvidia's revenue reached a new record high of $26 billion -- and revenue linked to AI customers made up a whopping 86% percent of that.

As mentioned above, all of this boosted the stock price and prompted Nvidia to announce a 10-for-1 stock split. The goal? To bring the stock to a level that would make it easier for employees and investors to access it. From the announcement in late May to the actual operation earlier this month, Nvidia shares climbed nearly 30%, and they've continued to add to gains.

Nvidia's increasing valuation

Now, let's return to our question. Since Nvidia has climbed to a value above technology powerhouse Microsoft's, is it too late to get in on the stock? A look at valuation shows us that Nvidia is considerably more expensive than it was only a month ago. Today, the stock trades for more than 51x forward earnings estimates compared with about 30 in May.

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NVDA PE Ratio (Forward) Chart

NVDA PE Ratio (Forward) data by YCharts

So does this mean you should hold off on buying this skyrocketing stock? Not necessarily. Yes, Nvidia is more expensive than it was a few weeks ago, but the stock is worth the premium for two reasons: its current leadership in the high-growth AI chip market, and most importantly, the steps it's taking to remain in that position.

Nvidia has committed to updating its GPUs annually, recently saying that after the launch of its new Blackwell architecture and chip later this year, "other Blackwells" will follow. This means that even if rivals release new chips, Nvidia, already in the lead, should remain ahead in terms of product performance.

On top of this, it's important to remember two other things. First, Nvidia already has secured its reputation as an expert in the AI chip market, and demand for its products and services is surpassing supply -- so it's already in a position of strength. And the innovation I just mentioned could keep this going. Second, the AI growth story is in its early days, with today's $200 billion AI market expected to reach more than $1 trillion by the end of the decade. As a result, Nvidia's AI growth may have a lot farther to go.

All of this means that today, even with Nvidia soaring past Microsoft, the investment opportunity is far from over -- and Nvidia still is a top stock to buy and hold for the long term.

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Nvidia Just Passed Microsoft as the Most Valuable Company in the World. Is it Too Late to Invest? was originally published by The Motley Fool
One analyst predicts Nvidia's market cap may blow past Apple's if the iPhone maker doesn't release generative AI products this year. Fernando Gutierrez-Juarez/Getty (L); NurPhoto/Getty

Nvidia is set to surpass Apple in a major technology ETF, triggering a $23 billion trade later this month.

Nvidia's 164% surge this year briefly pushed its valuation past Apple's earlier this month.

Microsoft, Apple, and Nvidia are all worth more than $3 trillion amid an ongoing AI-fueled tech boom.

Nvidia is poised to overtake Apple in one of the biggest technology ETFs later this month, sparking a massive $23 billion trade.

After soaring 164% year-to-date to shoot past a $3 trillion valuation, Nvidia was briefly worth more than Apple this month, right before the deadline for a big rebalance of State Street's Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF, which trades under the symbol "XLK" and has just over $72 billion in assets under management.

A diversification rule in the tech ETF has limited the concentration of the fund in a big way.

The top holdings of the ETF are Apple and Microsoft at about 22%, followed by Nvidia at about 6%. That's compared to the S&P Tech Index, which has Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia each at a weighting of just over 20%.

Because of concentration limits baked into the ETF, the sum of companies with a weight above 4.8% cannot exceed 50% of the fund's holdings.

That limit has consistently been reached over the past two years, which results in the smallest company with a weight above 4.8% being knocked back down to a 4.5% weight.

With Nvidia set to take the second spot from Apple, it will spark a massive combined trade worth more than $20 billion.

Based on the ETF's current size and calculations by Business Insider, about $11 billion is set to purchase Nvidia stock, while the sell-down of Apple will amount to about $12 billion.

The massive trade is slightly below the average daily trading volume value of both stocks, so while the trade swap could spark some swings in prices, it is likely to be well absorbed by the market.

While the trade appears locked in, to occur later this month when the ETF rebalances, there is a slight chance that State Street aborts the trade.

According to a document seen by Bloomberg News, the S&P, which manages the index that's tied to the XLK ETF, could make an exception to the index's rule when it unveils the new rebalance weights later this month.

The document said that the index committee "reserves the right to make exceptions when applying the methodology if the need arises," according to Bloomberg.

Read the original article on Business Insider
As global markets experience varied performances with notable advancements in technology stocks and a cautious eye on inflation, the Hong Kong market presents unique opportunities for investors. In this context, growth companies with high insider ownership in Hong Kong are particularly appealing, as they often signal strong confidence from those closest to the company's operations and future prospects.

Top 10 Growth Companies With High Insider Ownership In Hong Kong

Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth iDreamSky Technology Holdings (SEHK:1119) 20.1% 104.1% Fenbi (SEHK:2469) 32.4% 43% DPC Dash (SEHK:1405) 38.2% 89.7% Zylox-Tonbridge Medical Technology (SEHK:2190) 18.5% 79.3% Adicon Holdings (SEHK:9860) 22.3% 29.6% Tian Tu Capital (SEHK:1973) 34% 70.5% MicroTech Medical (Hangzhou) (SEHK:2235) 25.8% 94.7% Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) (SEHK:2315) 13.9% 100.1% Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology (SEHK:9863) 15% 76.5% Beijing Airdoc Technology (SEHK:2251) 28.2% 83.9%

Click here to see the full list of 51 stocks from our Fast Growing SEHK Companies With High Insider Ownership screener.

Let's dive into some prime choices out of from the screener.

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: BYD Company Limited operates in the automobile and battery sectors across China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and internationally, with a market capitalization of approximately HK$753.40 billion.

Operations: The company's revenue is primarily derived from its automobile and battery sectors.

Insider Ownership: 30.1%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 14.1% p.a.

BYD, a prominent player in Hong Kong's growth sectors with significant insider ownership, has demonstrated robust operational performance and strategic expansion. Recently, it reported a substantial year-over-year increase in production and sales volumes as of May 2024, reflecting strong market demand. The company also enhanced shareholder returns with a dividend increase approved on June 6, 2024. Furthermore, BYD is innovating with new product launches like the BYD SHARK pickup in Mexico, indicating its commitment to diversifying and capturing global markets. These strategic moves align with its financial growth forecasts which outpace the Hong Kong market average.

SEHK:1211 Ownership Breakdown as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Lianlian DigiTech Co., Ltd. is a company based in China that offers digital payment services and additional value-added services to small and mid-sized merchants and enterprises, with a market capitalization of approximately HK$10.34 billion.

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Operations: The company generates revenue through three primary segments: global payments (CN0.66 billion), domestic payments (CN0.22 billion), and value-added services (CN0.13 billion).

Insider Ownership: 19.4%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 22.7% p.a.

Lianlian DigiTech, a growth-focused company in Hong Kong with high insider ownership, recently secured a strategic Electronic Money Institution License in Luxembourg, enhancing its European market presence and service capabilities. Despite significant financial challenges including a net loss reported for 2023, the firm's aggressive expansion and leadership changes signal its commitment to improving performance and broadening its operational scope.

SEHK:2598 Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Angelalign Technology Inc. is an investment holding company that specializes in researching, developing, designing, manufacturing, and marketing clear aligner treatment solutions in the Peoples Republic of China, with a market capitalization of approximately HK$9.92 billion.

Operations: The company generates revenue primarily from its dental equipment and supplies segment, totaling CN1.48 billion.

Insider Ownership: 18.5%

Revenue Growth Forecast: 16% p.a.

Angelalign Technology, a Hong Kong-based growth company with high insider ownership, has been actively expanding its product offerings and market reach. Recent developments include launching new orthodontic features and entering the Canadian market, signaling innovation and strategic growth. Despite these advancements, the company's financial performance shows mixed results with a significant decline in net income from the previous year and lower profit margins. However, revenue and earnings are expected to grow above the market rate over the next three years.

SEHK:6699 Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Jun 2024

Summing It All Up

Discover the full array of 51 Fast Growing SEHK Companies With High Insider Ownership right 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.

Interested In Other Possibilities?

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 analysis only considers stock directly held by insiders. It does not include indirectly owned stock through other vehicles such as corporate and/or trust entities. All forecast revenue and earnings growth rates quoted are in terms of annualised (per annum) growth rates over 1-3 years.

Companies discussed in this article include SEHK:1211 SEHK:2598 and .

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Amidst the evolving landscape of digital currencies and the heightened focus on wholesale central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), Singapore's market is poised to reflect these global financial shifts. As investors navigate this changing terrain, dividend stocks like Aztech Global continue to draw attention for their potential stability and yield in a dynamic economic environment.

Top 10 Dividend Stocks In Singapore

Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating BRC Asia (SGX:BEC) 7.58%  Civmec (SGX:P9D) 6.05%  Singapore Exchange (SGX:S68) 3.58%  UOB-Kay Hian Holdings (SGX:U10) 6.97%  UOL Group (SGX:U14) 3.88%  Bumitama Agri (SGX:P8Z) 6.84%  Singapore Airlines (SGX:C6L) 7.10%  Oversea-Chinese Banking (SGX:O39) 5.92%  Delfi (SGX:P34) 6.72%  Sing Investments & Finance (SGX:S35) 6.03% 

Click here to see the full list of 18 stocks from our Top SGX Dividend Stocks screener.

Let's uncover some gems from our specialized screener.

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Aztech Global Ltd. operates in the design, development, and manufacturing of IoT devices, data-communication products, and LED lighting solutions across regions including Singapore, North America, China, and Europe with a market capitalization of approximately SGD 717.92 million.

Operations: Aztech Global Ltd. generates revenue primarily through the design and manufacturing of IoT devices, data-communication products, and LED lighting solutions in key markets such as Singapore, North America, China, and Europe.

Dividend Yield: 8.3%

Aztech Global trades 65.6% below estimated fair value, suggesting potential upside. Despite a high dividend yield of 8.29%, top-tier in Singapore's market, its dividend history is unstable with significant fluctuations and only a three-year track record of payments. Recent earnings show growth, with net income rising to SGD 15.9 million from SGD 13.4 million year-over-year, supporting a recent dividend increase to SGD 0.05 per share for FY2023.

SGX:8AZ Dividend History as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited operates a financial services business across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Greater China, and other parts of the Asia Pacific as well as internationally, with a market capitalization of SGD 63.85 billion.

Operations: Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited generates its financial services revenue across Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Greater China, and the broader Asia Pacific region.

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Dividend Yield: 5.9%

Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation's dividend yield of 5.92% is below the top quartile in Singapore's market, which stands at 6.2%. Although the company has a history of volatile dividends over the past decade, its current and forecasted payout ratios (52.9% and 54.1%, respectively) indicate that earnings sufficiently cover dividend payments. Recent strategic expansions into China and multiple fixed-income offerings underscore efforts to diversify and strengthen financial positioning but have no immediate impact on dividends or earnings for 2024.

SGX:O39 Dividend History as at Jun 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 1.19 billion.

Operations: Bumitama Agri Ltd. generates revenue primarily from its plantations and palm oil mills, which produced IDR 15.44 billion in sales.

Dividend Yield: 6.8%

Bumitama Agri Ltd. maintains a dividend yield of 6.84%, ranking in the top 25% of Singaporean dividend payers. The dividends are supported by a payout ratio of 40.4% and a cash payout ratio of 60.8%, suggesting coverage by both earnings and cash flows despite forecasts predicting an average earnings decline of 5.5% annually over the next three years. However, the company's dividend history has been marked by inconsistency, with payments showing volatility over the past decade.

SGX:P8Z Dividend History as at Jun 2024

Seize The Opportunity

Click through to start exploring the rest of the 15 Top SGX Dividend Stocks now.

Hold shares in these firms? Setup your portfolio in Simply Wall St to seamlessly track your investments and receive personalized updates on your portfolio's performance.

Unlock the power of informed investing with Simply Wall St, your free guide to navigating stock markets worldwide.

Searching for a Fresh Perspective?

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:8AZ SGX:O39 and SGX:P8Z.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Contributor via Getty Images

Russia is securing second-hand production tech sought after by its defense industry, a think tank reported.

Opaque firms in countries such as Turkey and China are helping deliver it to Russian contractors.

Without them, Russian domestic manufacturers could not meet the industry's needs.

Despite the West's campaign to cut Moscow's war economy off from needed equipment, a network of obscure firms are helping Russia secure essential technology, a think tank reported.

According to the Center for Advanced Defense Studies, arms manufacturers in Russia have been able to source Western-made high-precision tools by buying from second-hand markets in countries still trading with the Kremlin, such as China, South Korea, and Turkey.

Specifically, these countries are neither the origin nor destination of the traded goods, but facilitate their shipment.

"Companies and individuals in these jurisdictions act as brokers, supplying [foreign-produced CNC machine tools] not only to Russian defense industry contractors but also to Russian subsidiaries of foreign machine tool firms that allegedly exited Russia after February 2022," analyst Al Maggard wrote.

While second-hand CNC  or computer numerical control machine tools  may not be as sophisticated as current models, they're enough to keep fueling Moscow's military needs, Maggard said.

Without the help of these markets, Russian domestic manufacturers would be unlikely to meet the industry's requirements in the short-to-medium term, he noted.

Though the report said its findings just scratched the surface of these trade networks, it highlighted a number of case studies in which opaque firms helped deliver CNC tools to Russia.

One of these, verified by the Financial Times, centers around a Chinese-based reseller called ELE Technology, whose website was registered shortly after Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

According to CADS, the firm made almost 100 shipments of Japanese CNC tools to a Russian defense contractor, possibly violating both US sanctions and Japanese export controls.

The contractor, AMG, has been sanctioned by the US since November 2023, the report said.

For its part, the West has been looking to restrain Russia's economy even further, with the US unleashing a new batch of sanctions on the country just this month. That includes an expanded ability to pursue secondary sanctions against financial institutions still facilitating trade with Moscow.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A bid by the Philippines to have the United Nations formally recognise the extent of its continental seabed in parts of the disputed South China Sea could encourage similar claims from rival claimant states, observers said.

The UN might not give what Manila wants, but the action will add layers of complexity to the already tangled regional disputes and possibly induce tougher countermeasures from Beijing, they added.

The Philippines last week filed a submission to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS), seeking confirmation on the extent of its undersea continental seabed in the West Palawan Region facing the South China Sea, according to Manila's foreign ministry.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

"The seabed and the subsoil extending from our archipelago up to the maximum extent allowed by Unclos hold significant potential resources that will benefit our nation and our people for generations to come," Philippine Foreign Assistant Secretary Marshall Louis Alferez said in a statement.

Unclos is the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which grants exclusive rights to exploit natural resources in continental shelf to a coastal state.

The move by the Philippines drew swift opposition from Beijing, which urged the commission not to review Manila's submission as it involved disputed maritime space.

China's foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday that the commission should not consider or qualify the submission by the Philippines if it involves delimitation of disputed waters, in line with the rules of procedure of the CLCS.

Lin said Beijing was still gathering information, but Manila's "unilateral submission" of an extended continental shelf infringes upon China's sovereign rights and jurisdiction.

Maritime affairs experts held similar views, predicting that Manila's bid was unlikely to succeed, and Beijing would view the move as a legal challenge that further complicated the South China Sea disputes.

"It seems unlikely that CLCS will be able to validate any such claim ... the Commission has, as a rule, avoided making any delimitation decisions when there are outstanding jurisdictional or sovereignty disputes," said Isaac Kardon, senior fellow for China studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

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Beijing would see the claim as "another legal and political challenge from Manila" just like the 2016 South China Sea arbitration, and view it as an attempt to undermine China's extensive claims using a UN institutional approach, he added.

Information was still being gathered about Manila's "unilateral submission" of an extended continental shelf, China's foreign ministry said on Monday. Photo: AP alt=Information was still being gathered about Manila's "unilateral submission" of an extended continental shelf, China's foreign ministry said on Monday. Photo: AP>

Mainland China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam.

In 2016, an international tribunal ruled in favour of the Philippines, dismissing China's broad claims as having no legal basis. However, Beijing has rejected and criticised the ruling.

Experts said that even though the details of Manila's submission had not yet been made public, its continental shelf claims might overlap with those of other coastal states in the South China Sea, and could potentially propel other claimant states to adopt similar tactics.

"The Philippines' submission could be a potential risk that sets a precedent for other claimant states, and they may file similar ECS (extended continental shelf) submissions to assert their rights," said Ding Duo, an associate research fellow at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies in Hainan.

He added that claimant countries could file their submissions separately, but joint submissions were also possible, and either situation would further complicate the South China Sea disputes.

"This will make the dispute even more complex and harder to resolve, and introduces a new point of contention for how Beijing and Manila should properly manage and handle their differences in the South China Sea," Ding said.

"In a nutshell, Manila's doings add more complexity to the already complicated South China Sea disputes, rather than simplifying it."

But Lucio Pitlo III, the president of the Philippine Association for Chinese Studies, said the Philippines' latest move and the 2016 arbitration were part of its efforts to use international law to protect its maritime claims.

"Both will affect the interests of other disputants in the semi-enclosed sea, although officially, the 2016 ruling only binds Manila and Beijing, a judgment China continues to reject. In like manner, a unilateral ECS submission may also impact the interests of other littoral states," he said.

Maritime observers predicted that Beijing would retaliate against Manila with tough operational and diplomatic measures.

"China might also increase the intensity of their interdictions at Second Thomas Shoal or escalate elsewhere in the South China Sea against Philippines interests," Carnegie's Kardon said, adding that China might also choose to publish baselines around the Spratlys to refute the Philippines' claims.

Baselines are an important concept in defining maritime boundaries and asserting jurisdictions over resources, which act as the starting points from which a country's territorial sea, exclusive economic zone, and continental shelf are measured.

Beijing could opt for stronger countermeasures to safeguard its rights at sea, especially during stand-offs with Philippine vessels in the South China Sea, according to Ding.

"Beijing believes it is crucial to make Manila pay a price for its actions, or else it will continue to provoke and hit the nerve repeatedly," he said.

The latest clash happened on Monday when the Philippines sent another resupply mission to an ageing ship that was deliberately grounded on the Second Thomas Shoal to assert Manila claims. Beijing said Manila had attempted to deliver construction supplies, which China has ruled unacceptable.

The Chinese coastguard said on Tuesday that it exerted control measures over the Philippine vessels during Monday's collision, such as issuing warnings, boarding the Philippine ship and conducting inspections.

Ding said the move was a clear demonstration of Beijing's resolve to implement effective control measures in response to the Philippines' actions.

Quoting an anonymous source, the Philippine media reported that China Coast Guard towed one of the Philippines' boats and confiscated the crew's firearms during the Monday run-in, while also injuring some Filipino crew members.

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.
Plant-based manufacturer Sanygran Foods has acquired Obrador Sorribas, the meat-free arm of fellow Spanish business Idilia Foods.

The deal, for an undisclosed sum, sees Navarre-based Sanygran take control of a 60-employee plant in Barcelona manufacturing meat-free products including burgers, sausages and ready meals.

Sanygran said the transaction strengthens our European expansion plan.

In a statement, it said: This strategic operation positions us as one of the companies with the largest industrial capacity in southern Europe to manufacture vegetable foods, which allows us to expand our portfolio and offer our customers a wide range of products and possibilities.

It added: This acquisition is of great importance for our company, as it allows us to offer our customers not only raw materials, ingredients or food in industrial format, but also ready meals for both retail and foodservice.

Sanygran, which has a factory in Tudela in Navarre, also suggested the expansion in its production capacity brings its closer to its goal of democratising prices in the plant-based sector, one of the most important challenges facing our sector due to the lack of scalability in industrial production and the impact of high prices on the market.

Roselyne Chane, general director of Sanygran, which owns the Legumeat, Fleximeat and Buenggies brand, has stressed the increase in capacity will allow the company to offer manufacturing capability to other plant-based businesses.

She said: With this new plant, we are the ideal partner to start any project in vegetable food. We provide a solution both to those customers who are looking for a product that mimics meat or fish, and to those who want a more traditional vegetable option always in a tasty, healthy way and now at the best price, in any format, offering the consumer a wide range of possibilities when buying.

Just Food has asked Idilia Foods, owner of brands such as ColaCao and Nocilla, for its comments on the deal.

Spanish media outlets have suggested it has sold Obrador Sorribas as part of its strategy to focus on its core businesses.

"Spains Sanygran buys plant-based assets of Idilia Foods" was originally created and published by Just Food, 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.
Sonya Mallard, Chamber board member, makes the opening remarks. The 2024 State of the Space Coast Conference was held at the Cocoa Civic Center on Wednesday, June 19. The event was hosted by the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, and featured speakers representing several cities in Brevard, as well as the Chamber. Various organizations were set up, and a networking lunch was held.

Carol Watson, a Palm Bay resident and owner of Onyx Gifts and Books, was excited to spend her Juneteenth hearing from Black business owners and members of local government from around the Space Coast.

"(I'm looking forward to) learning about what the community has to offer, what everyone has their reflection on what Juneteenth means to them," she said on Wednesday morning at the State of the Coast Conference, where she had a table of books, stickers and other gifts. "It's never too late to learn something new."

That was the goal of the conference  to offer new insight to entrepreneurs and business owners.

As people celebrated Juneteenth around the nation, about 55 of Brevard's Black business owners, entrepreneurs and local government officials gathered to discuss local economics and new developments happening around the Space Coast.

Juneteenth and the Moores: 'Freedom Never Dies': New children's book spells out life, activism of Harry and Harriette Moore

The conference, held at Cocoa's civic center and organized by the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, has grown since its inception last year, when it was hosted in Melbourne. This year, speakers included local politicians for the first time, such as Rockledge councilman Shaun Fergeuson, Cocoa mayor Michael Blake, Palm Bay deputy mayor Donny Felix, Melbourne vice mayor Yvonne Minus, Rockledge councilman Michael Cadore, Cocoa deputy mayor Lavander Hearn, Titusville councilman Joe Robinson, Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce founder and president Victoria Jones and others.

Speakers from several cities in Brevard at the 2024 State of the Space Coast Conference at the Cocoa Civic Center on Wednesday, June 19. Left to right, R. Shaun Ferguson of Rockledge, Donny Felix of Palm Bay, Yvonne Minus of Melbourne, Michael Cadore of Rockledge, Joe Robinson of Titusville, and Michael Barringer of Cocoa. The event was hosted by the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce, and featured speakers representing several cities in Brevard, as well as the Chamber.

Jones said she was thrilled to see the way the conference has grown.

"It's an amazing feeling," she said. "We definitely are blessed and thankful for the community embracing us."

Outside of the conference, the Space Coast Black Chamber of Commerce has advocated in Washington, D.C. and in Tallahassee for the needs of Black business owners, she said, adding that they've received support from President Joe Biden, Congressman Bill Posey, Rep. Tyler Sirois, Rep. Thad Altman, Sen. Tom Wright and Sen. Debbie Mayfield.

"They've all been very supportive of us," she said. "They've been amazing during this process and very understanding of what it is that we're advocating for. They understand the challenges and adversities that we've faced and what we are facing."

As for the conference itself, it serves as a place where Black business owners, entrepreneurs and people who are just considering dipping their toes into the world of commerce can connect  something Veronica Jenkins, member chair of the Central Brevard NAACP, appreciated.

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"I'm going to meet people that I've never met before," she said. "I'll see what everybody else is doing and what they're offering."

That's Jones', and the commerce's, whole purpose, she said: To be a "connector" between individuals and organizations throughout Brevard that may not otherwise interact.

"We are connecting the different worlds," Jones said. "It merges those worlds because so many from out of the community that I come from, the African American community, they just don't know that some of these resources are available, but ... it kind of goes back to being familiar with people in the room. Sometimes you don't know what you don't know."

Minus, one of the speakers, spoke of the importance of the event as a place to educate community members about developments around Brevard.

"You'd be surprised at the residents who are not familiar with what's going on even in their own city," she said. "With this being a county event, information will be available to a lot of the residents from Titusville to Palm Bay, because of the different participants in it."

The event, which began at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, was scheduled to continue until about 3 p.m.

And why hold it on Juneteenth? Jones said it's a way to honor the day and its meaning.

"It is just to kind of pay tribute to the ancestors who fought for us to be in the (situation) that we're in today," she said.

Finch Walker is the education reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Walker at fwalker@floridatoday.com. X: @_finchwalker.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Black business owners mark Juneteenth with State of the Coast conference
Northeastern Wisconsin manufacturers have seen business stabilize or improve since the coronavirus pandemic and now theyve focused investment on integrating new technology, like artificial intelligence.

And they need workers for the many new jobs the expected growth and new technology are creating.

Those are some of the takeaways from the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance's third Industry 4.0 Talent & Technology study, published June 12. The survey, conducted by St. Norbert College in early 2024, was previously completed in 2019 and 2021. Seventy-two people responded to this year's survey.

With business considered stable and improving, investments in technology and skilled workers continue to increase across the region, said the surveys summary. However, there are mixed views and uncertainty about the value or implementation of certain technologies, including AI  a growth area with many potential applications. Cybersecurity in particular is of growing concern among all industries, and planning in this area is imperative.

NEW Manufacturing Alliance Logo

What did the survey ask of businesses?

The survey asked manufacturing industry leaders in the region about their plans to adopt new technologies, what technologies they expect to invest in, what manufacturers need in the future and the type of jobs they need to fill. Seventy-four businesses responded this year.

The alliance uses the survey to call more attention to new technologies available to manufacturers, that companies need to prepare to integrate them into their businesses, and to help area colleges understand what certificates and degrees the future workforce will need, said Ann Franz, executive director of the NEW Manufacturing Alliance.

You can read through a summary of the results below, but here are five takeaways from the survey results and an explanation of what we mean by Industry 4.0.

Industry 4.0 Talent & Technology Survey 2024 - Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance

What does 'Industry 4.0' mean?

The survey defined Industry 4.0 as the transformation of manufacturing via the integration of digital technologies into plants and operations.

These technologies include cloud computing and analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning and the industrial Internet of Things (IoT)  the latter of which is used to describe a network of connected devices which collect, monitor and assess data.

The goal is to increase automation, cut costs, better maintain equipment and optimize processes.

Cybersecurity, Internet of Things and AI focus on manufacturers investment

Although it dipped slightly from 97% in 2021, the survey found 94% of companies expect to increase investment in cybersecurity. The high level of investment should come as no surprise as most industries grapple with cyberattacks.

Companies that expect to increase investment in industrial IoT increased from 59% in 2019 to 83% this year.

And in a first-time question, 67% of respondents expect to increase investments in Generative AI, which generates images, text and other media in response to prompts.

Franz said manufacturing employees have shown an interest in learning more about AI, too. NEWMA in fall 2023 launched an AI-focused training course that 300 people have completed, she said.

Do northeastern Wisconsin manufacturers use AI?

Respondents answers were close to split on whether they have explored or currently use artificial intelligence. Many respondents remain uncertain of the technologys implications.

The evolving nature of the technology has created some uncertainty for some company leaders who have cited lack of expertise, complexity of integration and security concerns as reasons they havent yet adopted the tool, said the survey summary.

Franz said the Alliance will use the results to engage and educate companies about artificial intelligence and effective use of it in their business.

"Since 2022, AI has been a big buzzword," Franz said. "Everyones talking about it but when you look at the survey, half the companies dont think theyll be using it. (The Alliance's) Industry 4.0 Task Force will take this information and help companies learn more about these technologies, including AI."

More on AI in Wisconsin: A Wisconsin company's AI tracked the Chinese spy balloon. Here's what to know about Synthetaic

7 jobs northeastern Wisconsin manufacturers need to fill

The integration of technology into manufacturing and industry has created a strong demand for skilled workers in several key areas.

In the next three years, at least half of respondents said they expect to need more workers to fill these jobs:

Project manager: 59%

Process engineer: 58%

AI specialist: 56%

Automation technician: 54%

Data analyst: 53%

Application developer: 53%

IT security specialist: 50%

About four in 10 companies said they would re-train an existing worker to fill these jobs.

More than 1,400 current manufacturing employees have completed training to learn new digital skills

Employees in three years who completed one of four Microsoft TechSpark skills training programs focused on digital literacy, data analytics, project management and generative AI.

Only 15% of respondents have a technology integration plan

Fifteen percent of respondents have a complete plan to integrate digital technology, cloud computing, machine learning and the Internet of Things into their operations. Thats about 11 of the 72 respondents this year.

Contact Jeff Bollier at (920) 431-8387 or jbollier@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @JeffBollier.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Survey shows new key jobs, AI impact on northeastern Wisconsin manufacturing
After a volatile trading session, the Swiss market demonstrated resilience, closing modestly higher as investors anticipate the upcoming monetary policy announcement from the Swiss National Bank. Amid these broader market movements, companies with high insider ownership can offer unique investment appeal, potentially aligning management interests closely with shareholder values in uncertain times.

Top 10 Growth Companies With High Insider Ownership In Switzerland

Name Insider Ownership Earnings Growth Stadler Rail (SWX:SRAIL) 14.5% 23.4% VAT Group (SWX:VACN) 10.2% 21.2% Straumann Holding (SWX:STMN) 32.7% 21% Swissquote Group Holding (SWX:SQN) 11.4% 14.3% COLTENE Holding (SWX:CLTN) 22.2% 20.9% Temenos (SWX:TEMN) 17.4% 14.7% Sonova Holding (SWX:SOON) 17.7% 9.9% SHL Telemedicine (SWX:SHLTN) 17.9% 96.2% Sensirion Holding (SWX:SENS) 20.7% 79.9% Arbonia (SWX:ARBN) 28.8% 100.1%

Click here to see the full list of 16 stocks from our Fast Growing SIX Swiss Exchange Companies With High Insider Ownership screener.

Let's uncover some gems from our specialized screener.

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Straumann Holding AG specializes in tooth replacement and orthodontic solutions globally, with a market capitalization of approximately CHF 17.09 billion.

Operations: The company generates CHF 1.20 billion from operations, with regional sales distributed as follows: CHF 451.27 million in Asia Pacific, CHF 793.05 million in North America, CHF 265.82 million in Latin America, and CHF 1.17 billion in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Insider Ownership: 32.7%

Straumann Holding, a notable Swiss growth company with high insider ownership, has shown a promising outlook despite its challenges. The company's earnings are expected to grow by 21% annually over the next three years, outpacing the Swiss market average of 8.2%. Recent engagements in major European financial conferences underscore its active pursuit of investor relations and market presence. However, it faces hurdles such as highly volatile share prices and lower profit margins compared to the previous year.

SWX:STMN Ownership Breakdown as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: Temenos AG is a global company that specializes in providing integrated banking software systems to financial institutions, with a market capitalization of approximately CHF 4.42 billion.

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Operations: The company generates revenue by offering integrated banking software solutions to financial institutions globally.

Insider Ownership: 17.4%

Temenos, a Swiss growth company with significant insider ownership, is set to outperform the local market with its earnings projected to grow by 14.7% annually. Although its revenue growth forecast of 7.6% per year does not reach the high-growth mark of 20%, it still surpasses the Swiss market's average of 4.4%. The company recently announced a CHF 200 million share buyback program, reflecting confidence in its financial health despite a high level of debt and an impressive forecasted return on equity of 25.9% in three years.

SWX:TEMN Ownership Breakdown as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Growth Rating: 

Overview: VAT Group AG specializes in developing, manufacturing, and supplying vacuum valves, multi-valve units, vacuum modules, and edge-welded metal bellows globally, with a market capitalization of CHF 15.15 billion.

Operations: VAT Group AG generates revenue primarily from two segments: Valves, which brought in CHF 782.74 million, and Global Service, contributing CHF 172.87 million.

Insider Ownership: 10.2%

VAT Group, a Swiss growth company with high insider ownership, is expected to see its earnings grow significantly at 21.2% per year, outpacing the Swiss market average of 8.2%. Its revenue growth forecast at 15.5% annually also exceeds the local market's 4.4%, indicating robust potential despite not reaching the high-growth threshold of 20%. The company's return on equity is predicted to be impressive at 39.1% in three years, highlighting strong profitability prospects amid a highly volatile share price recently.

SWX:VACN Earnings and Revenue Growth as at Jun 2024

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Discover a world of investment opportunities with Simply Wall St's free app and access unparalleled stock analysis across all markets.

Ready For A Different Approach?

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 analysis only considers stock directly held by insiders. It does not include indirectly owned stock through other vehicles such as corporate and/or trust entities. All forecast revenue and earnings growth rates quoted are in terms of annualised (per annum) growth rates over 1-3 years.

Companies discussed in this article include SWX:STMNSWX:TEMNSWX:VACN.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
(Bloomberg) -- Taiwans CTCI Corp. and partners will develop and operate a 508 million ($545 million) water-desalination plant as demand from chipmakers soars.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The islands Water Resources Agency awarded the contract, which includes a 15-year operation and maintenance clause, to a group that also includes Hung Hua Construction Co. and Frances Suez SA, the companies said in a joint statement.

Taiwans vast semiconductor industry supports all manner of technologies from artificial intelligence to 5G networks. Yet chip manufacturing is highly water-intensive, and a chronic shortage has been exacerbated by climate change. When Taiwan faced a severe drought in 2021, officials shut off irrigation across swaths of farmland to redirect supplies to the industry, angering locals.

Designed to produce 100,000 cubic meters of drinking water a day, the Hsinchu desalination plant will benefit not only manufacturers but around 1.6 million inhabitants of Hsinchu City, according to the statement. Construction is expected to begin this year and be complete by 2028.

Taiwans water supply mainly comes from reservoirs fed by rainfall, but climate change and extreme hydrological events have disrupted these patterns, the companies said. With the expansion of semiconductor factories in the Hsinchu Science Park, the demand for water is set to surge.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
TD Bank Group (TD) has launched TD Innovation Partners (TDIP), a division of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. TDIP is a new full-service team providing bespoke, high-touch banking and financing solutions. Moreover, it will support technology and innovation companies at all stages.

TDIP offers a broad suite of services to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by technology entrepreneurs. Its range incorporates banking and lending products to principal investments and private banking solutions.

TD: over 1m business banking customers in Canada

With more than a million business banking customers across Canada, TD plays an active role in supporting business owners and helping them achieve their financial goals, said Barbara Hooper, Group Head, Canadian Business Banking, TD. "Our TDIP team stands ready to support the next generation of innovation companies at every step of their journeys.

TD Innovation Partners, incorporates a specialised team with extensive experience working with companies in the innovation economy. TD says that the team brings deep relationships within the technology and business community, as well as an expansive network of investors and key industry influencers. It offers a collaborative approach that is stage and industry agnostic. And it is tailored to help innovation companies navigate the complexities of growth.

TDIP - a unique banking experience made for founders and their teams

According to TD, the TDIP unit will offer a unique banking experience made for founders and their teams. From the initial opening of a bank account to helping meet the complex needs of mid and later stage growth companies, TDIP aims to bridge the gap between banking services and the specialised needs of technology companies across their lifecycles. TDIP will also work alongside TD Wealth to provide private banking and wealth management to help make TD the bank that truly understands the founder journey.

Our team is deeply passionate about the innovation economy. We strive to work as hard as our clients, said Shez Samji, head, TD Innovation Partners. At TDIP, we're focused on enhancing and curating the banking experience for technology companies and their founders so they can spend more time creating and growing their business.

"TD launches full-service platform supporting technology and innovation clients in Canada" 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.
Top Five Conveyor Car Wash Company Adds Third Idaho Location to Footprint

THOMASTON, GA / ACCESSWIRE / June 19, 2024 / Tidal Wave Auto Spa, one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash companies, is pleased to announce the grand opening of the brand-new Burley, ID, location at 300 N Overland Avenue.









To celebrate the Grand Opening, the new Burley location is offering eight days of free car washes from June 19-June 26. This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners to experience Tidal Wave's premium wash option, Graph-X4, at no cost. Additionally, any new customer that joins a Clean Club unlimited wash membership plan during Grand Opening week will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for only $9.97 - saving up to $40.

"When we opened our first Tidal Wave Auto Spa in Georgia over two decades ago, we were a small-town express car wash focused on delivering an exceptional wash experience to our neighboring communities," said founder and CEO Scott Blackstock. "To be able to serve customers over 2,000 miles away from where it all began with the same industry-leading wash experience is incredibly exciting for our team. We've opened three brand-new locations in Idaho this year and look forward to providing our easy, efficient and enjoyable car wash experience to these communities for years to come."

Burley, ID, Location: 300 N Overland Ave, Burley, ID 83318

Nearby: Pocatello, ID

Tidal Wave Auto Spa is committed to providing every customer with an exceptional car wash experience through industry-leading car care technology, clean and attractive locations, and friendly customer service at every location. Stop by for a single wash or join Tidal Wave's Clean Club for the ultimate experience. Members can wash every day of the month for one convenient monthly payment and save time with exclusive club member wash lanes - plus, memberships can be used at any Tidal Wave location. For those needing to wash multiple cars, Tidal Wave offers discounted monthly family plans and fleet plans for businesses with five or more vehicles.

Tidal Wave has been operating in Idaho since 2024 and has three brand-new locations open seven days a week in Mountain Home, Pocatello, and Burley. For additional information, including upcoming locations, fundraising, fleet plans, and more, please visit: https://www.tidalwaveautospa.com/.

About Tidal Wave Auto Spa

Tidal Wave Auto Spa is an industry-leading conveyor car wash company founded in 1999 by Scott and Hope Blackstock in Thomaston, GA. Tidal Wave is committed to providing cutting-edge car care technology and exceptional customer service at each of their 268 locations sprawling 27 states across the South, Midwest, and Northern United States. In 2020, Tidal Wave partnered with Golden Gate Capital to facilitate their accelerated growth across the country. Tidal Wave is one of the top five conveyor car wash companies in the country and has been included in the Inc. 5000 list for America's Fastest Growing Companies since 2020. The company was recognized as a 2023 Champion of Charity Honoree by Professional Carwashing & Detailing and has raised over $3 million dollars for organizations in their communities.

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Contact Information

Heather Coleman

Marketing Manager

media@tidalwaveautospa.com

Andrea Traylor

Senior Director of Digital Marketing

andrea.traylor@tidalwaveautospa.com

2058212220

SOURCE: Tidal Wave Auto Spa

.

View the original press release on newswire.com.
Amidst a fluctuating global economic landscape, Hong Kong's market has shown resilience, reflecting broader trends seen in major indices worldwide. As investors navigate these conditions, dividend stocks remain appealing for their potential to offer steady income streams and relative stability.

Top 10 Dividend Stocks In Hong Kong

Name Dividend Yield Dividend Rating Chongqing Rural Commercial Bank (SEHK:3618) 8.46%  CITIC Telecom International Holdings (SEHK:1883) 9.73%  China Construction Bank (SEHK:939) 7.41%  Playmates Toys (SEHK:869) 8.82%  S.A.S. Dragon Holdings (SEHK:1184) 8.62%  China Resources Land (SEHK:1109) 5.62%  Bank of China (SEHK:3988) 6.49%  China Mobile (SEHK:941) 6.49%  Sinopharm Group (SEHK:1099) 3.98%  International Housewares Retail (SEHK:1373) 8.55% 

Click here to see the full list of 92 stocks from our Top Dividend Stocks screener.

Let's take a closer look at a couple of our picks from the screened companies.

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. operates as a commercial bank offering a range of financial products and services, with a market capitalization of approximately HK$520.19 billion.

Operations: Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. generates revenue primarily through Corporate Banking Business (CN97.35 billion), Personal Banking (CN81.71 billion), and Treasury Business (CN20.99 billion).

Dividend Yield: 6.5%

Bank of Communications has recently undergone executive changes, with Mr. Zhang Baojiang set to become president pending regulatory approval, following Mr. Liu Jun's resignation. The bank issued CNY 26 billion in bonds and approved a dividend rate of 4.07% for domestic preference shares totaling RMB 1.83 billion due in September 2024. While its dividend yield of 6.48% is below the top quartile for Hong Kong stocks, dividends have been reliable and are well-covered by earnings with a payout ratio forecast at 31.1% over the next three years, indicating stability despite a lower yield relative to peers.

SEHK:3328 Dividend History as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: Lenovo Group Limited is an investment holding company that develops, manufactures, and markets technology products and services with a market capitalization of approximately HK$149.85 billion.

Operations: Lenovo Group's revenue is primarily generated through three segments: the Intelligent Devices Group (IDG) which earned $44.60 billion, the Solutions and Services Group (SSG) with $7.47 billion, and the Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG) contributing $8.92 billion.

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Dividend Yield: 3.1%

Lenovo Group's dividend yield at 3.14% remains modest compared to the Hong Kong market's top quartile at 7.79%. However, its dividends are well-supported by a payout ratio of 57.8% and a cash payout ratio of 83.1%, indicating sustainability from both earnings and cash flow perspectives. Over the past decade, dividends have shown stability and reliability with consistent growth, despite recent shareholder dilution and lower profit margins year-over-year1.8% currently versus 2.6% previouslyhighlighting some financial pressures but overall resilience in maintaining shareholder returns.

SEHK:992 Dividend History as at Jun 2024

Simply Wall St Dividend Rating: 

Overview: China CITIC Bank Corporation Limited operates as a comprehensive banking institution offering a wide range of financial products and services across the Peoples Republic of China and globally, with a market capitalization of approximately HK$345.64 billion.

Operations: China CITIC Bank Corporation Limited generates its revenue through various banking products and services within the People's Republic of China and on an international scale.

Dividend Yield: 7.7%

China CITIC Bank, with a dividend yield of 7.69%, falls slightly below Hong Kong's top quartile payers. Despite a low payout ratio of 28%, the bank's dividend history has been marked by volatility and unreliability over the past decade. Recent financials show stable earnings with CNY 19,191 million in net income for Q1 2024, but shareholder dilution has occurred within the year. Notably, dividends are forecasted to remain well-covered by earnings at a similar payout ratio in three years.

SEHK:998 Dividend History as at Jun 2024

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Explore the 92 names from our Top Dividend Stocks screener here.

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Simply Wall St is your key to unlocking global market trends, a free user-friendly app for forward-thinking investors.

Contemplating Other Strategies?

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 SEHK:3328 SEHK:992 and SEHK:998.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
(Bloomberg) -- A senior American official is set to visit Japan and the Netherlands to ask the two countries to add fresh restrictions on Chinas semiconductor sector, including on its ability to make the high-end memory chips needed for artificial intelligence.

Most Read from Bloomberg

US Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security Alan Estevez will press his counterparts in Tokyo and The Hague to put more limits on the activities in China of Dutch supplier ASML Holding NV and Japans Tokyo Electron Ltd., according to people familiar with the matter. Estevezs requests, part of an ongoing dialogue with allies, will highlight Chinese chip factories developing so-called high-bandwidth memory chips, said the people, asking not to be identified because the discussions are private.

ASML and Tokyo Electron machines are used to produce dynamic random access memory dies, which are stacked together to make HBM chips. Chinese companies working on HBM chips include Wuhan Xinxin Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., a subsidiary of Chinas leading memory chipmaker Yangtze Memory Technologies Co., according to Chinas corporate data provider Qichacha. Huawei Technologies Co. and ChangXin Memory Technologies Inc. are also reportedly developing HBM.

The Biden administration has tried for years to limit Chinas ability to buy and produce advanced semiconductors, arguing such steps are necessary for national security. Yet results have been mixed, with Huawei and others making significant advances. The US is seeking support from allies, who have implemented their own less stringent controls, to create a more effective global blockade.

The United States is the most critical player in the global semiconductor equipment industry, but its far from the only country that matters. Japan and the Netherlands are also key providers of semiconductor equipment, said Gregory Allen, director of the Wadhwani Center for AI and Advanced Technologies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The Netherlands and Japan have restrictions on exports but not on servicing, and thats a critical limitation in the overall technology controls architecture.

Estevez is expected to repeat a standing US request for the two countries to tighten restrictions on ASML and Tokyo Electrons ability to maintain and repair their other advanced equipment in China as well, the people said. The US has already imposed such restrictions on American rivals, such as Applied Materials Inc. and Lam Research Corp.

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The US delegations visit to the Netherlands is expected to take place after the new Dutch cabinet is sworn in the first week of July. Reinette Klever of far-right lawmaker Geert Wilders Freedom Party is set to become the minister for foreign trade and development aid, a role that typically oversees the countrys export control policies.

The Dutch and Japanese governments have been resisting the US pressure, people familiar with the matter said earlier. The two countries want more time to evaluate the impact of current export bans on high-end chip-making equipment and to see the outcome of the US presidential election in November.

It is uncertain how the new Dutch government led by Wilders will react to US demands for additional measures. Klever is co-founder of a far-right TV channel Ongehoord Nederland, which stirred controversy for its pro-Russian reporting and climate change skepticism. The outgoing Foreign Trade Minister Liesje Schreinemacher paid a farewell visit to the US last week to lobby for the interests of ASML. Dutch King Willem-Alexander joined Schreinemacher in a meeting with New York Governor Kathy Hochul.

A representative of the US Commerce Departments Bureau of Industry and Security declined to comment. A spokesperson for the Dutch foreign trade ministry declined to comment. Japans Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry did not respond to requests for comment.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a regular press briefing Wednesday in Beijing that his nation opposes US efforts to coerce other countries to suppress Chinas semiconductor industry.

He added that it was Beijings hope that relevant countries can distinguish right from wrong and protect their own interests.

HBM chips are an indispensable part of the AI hardware ecosystem because they speed up access to memory, helping AI development. AI accelerators, made by Nvidia Corp. and Advanced Micro Devices Inc., need to be bundled with HBM chips for them to work. US officials are having early-stage conversations about restricting the export of HBM chips, Bloomberg has reported.

SK Hynix Inc. is the leading producer of HBM chips, with Samsung Electronics Co., and US-based Micron Technology Inc. pressing to catch up. SK Hynix relies on equipment from ASML and Tokyo Electron, according to Bloombergs supply chain data.

Korean equipment makers including Hanmi Semiconductor Co. and Hanwha Precision Machinery Co. also play a critical role in the HBM supply chain. Earlier this year, Washington asked Seoul to restrict the flow of equipment and technologies for making high-end logic and memory chips to China, Bloomberg News has reported.

Chinese companies can no longer buy the most advanced AI chips from Nvidia, but Huawei is developing its own AI accelerators, called Ascend. It is unclear which company or companies are providing advanced memory chips to Huawei. SK Hynix, Samsung and Micron all stopped supplying Huawei with chips after the US tightened sanctions against the Chinese company in 2020.

Washington officials have also grown worried about Chinas own progress in chipmaking equipment. Lawmakers on Tuesday introduced a bipartisan bill to ban companies that receive US funding for chip factories from purchasing Chinese tools for those facilities.

--With assistance from Jessica Sui, Yoolim Lee, James Mayger and Bingyan Wang.

(Updates with comment from Chinas Foreign Ministry. An earlier version of this story corrected the identity of the US politician in the ninth paragraph to New Yorks governor)

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Editors Note: Sign up for CNNs Meanwhile in China newsletter which explores what you need to know about the countrys rise and how it impacts the world.

Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway has further cut its large stake in BYD, which vies with Tesla as the worlds largest electric car (EV) maker, as global trade tensions escalate over Chinese EVs.

The legendary investors conglomerate sold another 1.35 million Hong Kong-listed shares of BYD on June 11, trimming its stake to 6.9% from 7.02%, a Hong Kong stock exchange filing showed Monday. The sale was valued at 310.5 million Hong Kong dollars ($40 million).

Its the first major sale of BYD shares by Berkshire in ten months and the 14th since August 2022, when it started gradually reducing its stake in Chinas top EV maker. BYD shares had closed at a record high in June of that year.

The latest sale comes as tensions soar over exports of cheap EVs from China.

Buffett says he made a smart bet on BYD. - Daniel Acker/Bloomberg/Getty Images

The country has become a dominant force in the global EV market, thanks to significant policy support from the government and heavy state subsidies. But a flood of cheap models has raised the specter of another trade war with its Western trading partners.

Last week, the European Union hit EVs imported from China with additional tariffs because of what it sees as Beijings unfair support for companies that undercut European carmakers.

That is expected to deal a blow to the the countrys manufacturers, which view Europe as a key export market. BYD will face an additional levy of 17.4% on top of the blocs existing 10% duty on car imports, according to an announcement from the European Commission.

Beijing, which has big dreams for its EV industry, has threatened to retaliate. On Monday, it announced an anti-dumping investigation into imports of pork from the EU.

Tensions had previously escalated between China and the United States over the same issue. In May, the Biden administration quadrupled tariffs on EV imports from China, from 25% to 100%, aiming to boost American jobs and manufacturing.

Buffett said last year that its imperative for the US and China to settle their differences and get along with each other.

Right investment in BYD

BYD, which was founded by Wang Chuanfu in Shenzhen, has had an extraordinary rise over the past three decades. It overtook Elon Musks Tesla (TSLA) at the end of last year as the biggest seller of electric vehicles on the planet. (Tesla regained its position in the first quarter of this year, but theyre neck and neck.)

In 2008, Berkshire spent $230 million in buying BYD shares at an average of HK$8 ($1.02) apiece. Back then, BYDs share price had fallen to a record low during the global financial crisis.

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That investment has proved to be one of the firms most successful ever.

In June 2022, the Chinese EV maker hit a record closing high of HK$331.4, about 41 times the price Berkshire had paid originally.

Since then, Berkshire has been on a selling spree, with its first major sale disclosed in August 2022.

So far, Berkshire has sold about 149 million shares.

Berkshire has not disclosed the reason for the sales. The company didnt immediately respond to a request for comment by CNN.

Last month, Buffett mentioned BYD at Berkshires 2024 annual meeting, crediting his closest business partner Charlie Munger, who passed away in November, for his call to buy the stock. Munger was right, big-time, he said.

Berkshire still holds 75.7 million Hong Kong-listed shares of BYD, which were worth about 17.6 billion Hong Kong dollars ($2.3 billion) by Tuesday.

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Florida small businesses at risk of bankruptcy may have an even harder time staying afloat if Congress doesnt act by June 21.

Construction firms, family-run restaurants and beauty salons across the Sunshine State are are among the over 1,000 struggling firms that could suffer without access to a federal initiative that makes it easier for them to file for bankruptcy, reorganize their businesses and avoid liquidation.

More small businesses in Florida have benefited than from any other state.

When you hear reports of companies going under, its usually giants like Lehman Brothers, General Motors, even Marvel Entertainment. United Airlines and Delta Airlines have filed for bankruptcy, too.

Many of those large companies had the resources to go through the costly and time-consuming Chapter 11 restructuring processes, the traditional way of declaring bankruptcy, and ended up surviving.

Ordinary small businesses face a much harder reality.

Thats where where the bankruptcy alternative, called Subchapter V, comes into play. The initiative was incorporated into the countrys bankruptcy law when Congress passed the Small Business Reorganization Act of 2019.. When it took affect in 2020, it gave eligible small businesses facing debt a faster, cheaper and more practical way to reorganize than the standard Chapter 11.

How small businesses have been helped

The initial debt, or liabilities limit, for small businesses to be eligible was $2.7 million and later adjusted for inflation to $3 million. Then, in March 2020, coinciding with the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, that limit was increased to $7.5 million. In 2022, the $7.5 million threshold was extended, but it will return to $3 million on June 21 if Congress does not renew it.

Florida has had more businesses apply each year than any other state. Since the programs debut through May 31 of this year, 1,067 businesses have participated, according to. Ed Flynn, a consultant with the Virginia-based American Bankruptcy Institute.

Florida is the leader

The number of participating firms in Florida has increased every year. It reached a record 264 last year, and this year is on pace to hit 444, more than twice the 2022 figure. South Florida accounts for almost a third of the cases.

Throughout the state, dry cleaners, roofing companies, asphalt paving companies and pizzerias have benefited from the initiative, said Daniel Gielchinsky, a bankruptcy expert and a lawyer and partner with Aventura-based DGIM Law.

In 2024, South Florida firms that have sought Subchapter V protection include Inclan Painting and Waterproofing Corp in Miami, Bladimir Mechanic Services in West Palm Beach, Mojito Club Sawgrass in Fort Lauderdale and Sushi Garage in Miami Beach, according to court documents.

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Nationally theres also a huge appetite for the less cumbersome restructuring. In 2023, the number of filings was nearly half of all Chapter 11 filings, according to research by Bob Lawless, a law professor at the University of Illinois who writes a blog called Credit Slips: A Discussion on Credit, Finance, and Bankruptcy.

Several bankruptcy experts praise the current Subchapter V option, both for being more efficient and because they think the $7.5 million debt limit reaches more companies that need the help.

How two bankruptcy approaches differ

Subchapter V, alternative to Chapter 11 bankruptcy benefiting Florida small business owners the most in U.S., will end if Senate doesnt act.

In Chapter 11, the trustee takes control of the business during the judicial process. For smaller firms that opt for Chapter 11 its like having the carcass of an animal being picked clean by all the predators, said Gielchinsky, the bankruptcy lawyer in Aventura.

With Subchapter V, the trustee talks to everyone, builds consensus and tries to make a deal, he said.

A lot of jobs have been saved using Subchapter V, the attorney said.

If Congress doesnt act by June 21, the program will survive but the debt limit for small-business owners will go back down to $3 million.

That would be unfortunate, says the American Bankruptcy Institute, which formed a task force that spent 12 months analyzing cases and seeking input from judges, bankruptcy trustees and academics.

In recommending the higher limit, the American Bankruptcy Institute found that just over a quarter of firms were above the $3 million threshold, and that they had a higher success rate in approval of their restructuring.

Soneet Kapila, a financial advisor in Fort Lauderdale specializing in restructuring and the current acting chairman of the American Bankruptcy Institute, is concerned.

My biggest worry is you will lose an entire segment of businesses.
In a small room of a building on his waterfront Lake Anna property Wednesday afternoon, Harry Looney ran a water sample collected earlier that day through a digital tool that measures water quality and whether there are indications of harmful algae.

After a few minutes, the device gave the readouts.

OK, this is not good, Looney said, noting that the results show a strong indication that were into a bloom.

Looney said he will send the sample to the Department of Environmental Quality for testing.

The 13,000-acre manmade Lake Anna, which cools the Dominion Energy North Anna nuclear power plant and is a popular summer spot, has been plagued by harmful algae blooms and no-swim advisories for the past six summers.

In 2022 the lake was added to the states list of impaired waterways because of the algae blooms.

Harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can appear when nitrogen and phosphorus pollution combine with warm water temperatures. The toxins can cause a skin rash, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The blue-green algae can affect people and pets alike.

More work and information are needed regarding harmful algae blooms, according to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

In a May letter to the DEQ about the states Water Quality Assessment Integrated Report, the foundation said more details are needed in assessments of harmful algae, including at Lake Anna.

We urge the agency to add a chapter dedicated to assessment results associated with HABs, and within that chapter, present the data associated with HABs in much more detail, the foundation said.

The foundation also warned that the current state regulations could result in harmful algae bloom impaired waterways being removed from the state list. The current state regulations allow waterways to be removed from the list if there are no Virginia Department of Health advisories.

Removing bodies of water from the impaired waterways list should require documentation, the foundation said.

Looney, co-chair of the water quality committee for the Lake Anna Civic Association, took The Free Lance-Star on a short tour of the lake and areas where harmful algae has been appearing, primarily spots where the water is stagnant.

He also talked about a DEQ study and two projects set to start this week that are aimed at improving the lake water quality, which in turn could stop or at least reduce the harmful algae blooms.

Looney said scum, an indicator of the harmful algae, was found on the lake surface of Pamunkey Creek of Wednesday. That area is the hottest spot on the lake, where the harmful algae usually pops up first.

The DEQ is studying the Pamunkey, so that area isnt being treated as part of the LACA projects.

The DEQ study could lead to more federal funding, Looney said.

His main focus is on the treatment programs, which aim to find a way to free Lake Anna of the harmful algae.

I see this as a classic system engineering problem, said Looney, a U.S. Army veteran and retired engineer for the Department of Defense, as he manned his motorboat across the lake Wednesday afternoon.

The two projects, he said, are not aimed directly at the harmful blue-green algae, which can form as scum on the water surface and out of sight in the water depths.

Were not trying to wipe it out, Looney said of the harmful algae. Were trying to decrease the excess nutrients.

The water in the areas with the harmful algae are darker green than the rest of the lake, something that can monitored with a Secchi Disc to show how deep sunlight penetrates. The white and black disc is lowered into the water and the user can mark the spot on a rope where the disc vanishes from sight to measure the water clarity. The deeper the disc travels in sight the better the water quality.

Looney used the disc on Wednesday, once in the middle of the lake and another at Pamunkey Creek. The disc disappeared into the green water of Pamunkey much quicker than the main area of the lake.

LACA hired two companies to treat a pair of sections of the lake.

One company is Clean Streams, Rivers and Lakes (CSRL), which will treat Terrys Run with what it describes in a statement on its approach as an advanced, all-natural water treatment.

CSRL said it will treat that area of the lake with two safe non-toxic treatments, calcium silicate and beneficial bacteria as part of the $82,000 project.

The calcium silicate is processed into a white powder that when put into the water mitigates the phosphorous and leaves behind silicate byproduct, which is a healthy part of soils and waters.

The other approach, which utilizes a bacillus strains bacteria treatment, is natural, safe, easy, and inexpensive probiotic solutions to the harmful algae problem, according to CSRL. The company uses ceramic devices set in the water to generate the beneficial bacteria. The 14-inch bio-pods can be active for years.

The company said the bacteria outcompete cyanobacteria for nutrients in the water, preventing cyanobacteria from flourishing. The probiotics consume nitrogen and phosphorous as well as other organics, like fish waste, leaves, and bottom muck which is mostly organic.

This month crews for CSRL will be spreading the calcium silicate powder in the water and installing the devices in the lake. The devices are attached to buoys and rest on the lake bottom.

The company noted that the treatments will have no negative impacts on the water, making it safe to swim and fish in the area being treated.

The other treatment project will focus on the North Anna River and North Anna arm of the lake. That work is being handled by EutroPHIX and subcontractor SOLitude Lake Management. Work is slated to start the middle of this month and last through September.

The $822,000 project is funded by the state and is aimed at reducing phosphorous in a a multi-year restoration plan to treat the North Anna River and 600 acres of the North Anna arm of the lake.

The crews will inject EutroSORB G into the North Anna arm water and EutroSORB WC into the North Anna River. The treatments reduce phosphorous levels, which will improve the water quality.

According to the LACA statement on the project, the treatment areas will be monitored for quality with two monthly water and sediment samples along with analyzing changes in the algae, with the expectation there will be a reduction in HAB extent and severity.

Looney said this is just the start of what are long-term plans that will require more work and money to complete successfully.

Several people at Lake Anna over Memorial Day weekend contracted illnesses, but harmful algae blooms were not suspected as the cause of the illnesses, the Virginia Department of Health said earlier this month.
Colorado's second-highest court on Thursday overturned a Douglas County judge's order for $12,500 in crime victim restitution, which she issued nearly two years after the defendant's sentencing and several months after the state Supreme Court told trial judges to pay attention to the 91-day deadline in the law.
Colorado Democrats on Tuesday applauded President Joe Biden's executive order to shield from deportation hundreds of thousands of individuals who are living in the country illegally and are married to American citizens.
The $1 million Democrat Adam Frisch raised in contributions during the just-completed, roughly two-month pre-primary fundraising period didn't measure up to the towering totals the Colorado congressional candidate regularly posted last year, when he was running to unseat Republican Lauren Boebert, but it still buried the competition.
Four days before Barry Morphew was arrested, Linda Stanley and a YouTube host texted each other about her appearance discussing the case on his show, which is called "Profiling Evil."

Mike King appeared to be congratulating her on a decent performance. Youll be so popular that when we get a different president well get you in as AG (attorney general), texted King.

I wouldnt want to be AG. Too much politics, but Supreme Court justice, hey count me in, Stanley responded by text.

That conversation and several others were revealed in court on the seventh day of often adversarial testimony in the disciplinary hearing for the former district attorney in the Morphew case.

Stanley took the stand Tuesday afternoon to defend her behavior as district attorney, which has garnered at least five complaints from law enforcement personnel, a judge on the case, and a citizen who searched for Suzanne Morphew in the days after she went missing. Complaints against her claim she spoke too freely with the media about the Morphew case and about the Fremont County murder case of a 10-month-old baby, that her prosecution team had continual discovery violations, and that she was a poor leader.

Stanley, who has decided not to run for the 11th Judicial District for a second term, was on the defensive after being hammered during nearly seven days of testimony. She often corrected and questioned the accuracy and intent of Senior Assistant Regulation Counsel Erin Kristofcos line of questioning.

Of appearing on the podcast, Kristofco asked, "You believed Mr. Morphew was guilty and you wanted to get others to agree with you, right?"

"Untrue," replied Stanley.

She added, "There were only 1,000 people in Colorado who watched that (the podcast 'Profiling Evil')."

She said that the chances of potential jurors hearing her comments were the same as winning the lottery.

Stanley could be disbarred if found to have displayed professional misconduct.

The state's Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel brought the charges against Stanley after it discovered enough evidence to possibly support ethical violations.

Suzanne Morphew, 49, went missing from her remote mountain home, about a 15-minute drive west of Salida, sometime on May 9-10 in 2020. Thousands of people turned out to look for her on horseback, on foot and in the streams and rivers.

Barry Morphew was arrested nearly a year later  on May 5, 2021  on suspicion of first-degree murder and tampering with physical evidence in her disappearance. Then-Judge Ramsey Lama agreed to dismiss all charges against Barry Morphew, without prejudice, just nine days before he was to stand trial for the first-degree murder of his wife and mother of their two daughters. "Without prejudice" means that prosecutors can re-file charges in the future.

Suzanne Morphew's remains were found last September, three years after she went missing. No new charges have been filed and the investigation is ongoing.

In a second Fremont County case, charges against a Colorado man accused of killing a baby were dismissed because of comments Stanley made to a Colorado Springs television station that may have violated prosecutorial ethics.

Stanley has sat quietly through testimony from investigators and prosecutors who worked on the Morphew case with her  from former U.S. Attorney, Attorney General and Colorado Springs mayor John Suthers, and Lama, the former 11th Judicial District judge who last oversaw the Morphew case.

Called to the stand before Stanley's testimony was Mike King, the host of the true crime podcast, newsletter and webcast who communicated with Stanley over text about the Morphew case leading up to Barry Morphews arrest and after he was bound over for trial in September of 2021.

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I reached out to Linda before she was sworn in (as district attorney) and said Id love to chat with her, King said.

After three months, they started communicating over text, but he said Stanley never told him secrets. At times, he appeared to cheerlead her appearances on his show. Good job Linda, he wrote in the summer of 2021 of her appearance on his show. He then suggested that, if she needed an ear to listen, she could call him.

Kristofco said that Stanley appeared on Profiling Evil" three times  in June, August and September 2021  to discuss the Morphew case, which the Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel said violates prosecutorial ethics.

King testified that his conversations with Stanley often involved their personal lives and were not solely about the Morphew case.

If I ever got anything close to the sun, shed say, You know Im not going to talk about that, he said.

Still, in June 2021, Stanley texted King in response to a Barry Morphew video he sent her, We got him. No worries.

Stanley's Sept. 30, 2021 appearance on "Profiling Evil" has 23,000 views. "Love DA Stanley. Wild respect," wrote one viewer.

But the title brings up ethical problems for a district attorney discussing an active case, said former Boulder District Attorney Stan Garnett during testimony last week.

Appearing on this show is a problem, said Garnett. Talking about a case on a show called Evil is in and of itself a statement.

No. Im not saying anyone is evil, countered Stanley Tuesday, who said she did not name the podcast.

Earlier, Tom Raynes, executive director of the Colorado District Attorneys' Council, said that early on in the case, Stanley called him for help with more attorneys to help with a case that was overwhelming for a small district like the 11th, which is responsible for prosecuting crimes in four counties.

Unable to help her out because there were no attorney in other districts to borrow, he told her to hire some, which she did.

it was her extra-judicial statements which worried Raynes.

"Is it concerning to you that an elected DA has been admonished several times and continued to conduct herself this way in the media, asked Kristofco.

Yes, Raynes said.

Raynes testified that he co-filed one of the ethics complaints against Stanley with the Colorado Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel when he saw an interview Stanley did with Colorado Springs television station KRDO.

Stanley's testimony will continue Thursday. Courts are closed Wednesday for the Juneteenth holiday.
World should pursue peaceful, open, innovation-driven development

09:12, June 19, 2024 By He Yin ( People's Daily

All sides must assume their responsibilities for history and the people, keep to the right direction, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, said Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Xi made the remarks in a video address at the opening ceremony of the 60th anniversary celebrations of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) on June 12.

He stressed that all sides need to foster an international environment for peaceful development, follow the trend toward open development, and harness the historic opportunity for innovation-driven development.

What he said fully demonstrated the emphasis that China lays on global development and the country's strong support for the common development of the Global South.

The world today is undergoing faster changes unseen in a century. Peace and development is confronted with new challenges. At the same time, the aspiration for peace, development, and cooperation of people from all countries has become even stronger.

Since its inception, the UNCTAD has been making voices for developing countries, vigorously advancing South-South cooperation, advocating North-South dialogue, and promoting a new international economic order.

In Xi's video address, he elaborated on China's advocacy for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization. This is conducive to promoting global common development and prosperity.

Fostering an international environment for peaceful development is a necessary prerequisite for achieving global development.

History has proved that only by adhering to peaceful development and win-win cooperation can the world achieve long-term stability and universal prosperity.

Standing at a crossroads where the world must choose between unilateralism and multilateralism, and between lose-lose and win-win, China has always stayed committed to its original aspiration of forging ahead hand in hand with fellow developing countries.

China holds that all countries, major ones in particular, should pursue true multilateralism, advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world, abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and support a more effective role of UNCTAD and other multilateral agencies.

UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan said that multilateralism is the antidote to challenges such as trade protectionism, and she appreciates China's support for multilateralism and South-South cooperation.

Following the trend toward open development is the only way to achieve global progress.

Economic globalization, like rivers converging into the sea, is an inevitable course of history. The problems associated with economic globalization can only be resolved through its continued development; unilateral actions and protectionism will only backfire.

China believes the world should advocate a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, properly resolve development imbalance and other issues, and make the global governance system more just and equitable.

As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated, "We must channel the courage and wisdom of those who built UNCTAD, to reimagine a world where trade is a force for shared prosperity, not geopolitical rivalry, where global supply chains are source of green innovation and climate action, not environmental damage".

Harnessing the historic opportunity for innovation-driven development is an inevitable choice to achieve global development.

The ongoing new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation, led by digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI), is cultivating new quality productive forces and bringing new development opportunities to countries, particularly developing ones.

It is important to build an open, inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for the digital economy, follow the people-centered, AI-for-good principle and strengthen AI-related rules and governance within the framework of the United Nations, actively advance green transition, and help developing countries join the trend of digital, smart and green development.

It is necessary to adhere to innovation-driven development, strengthen cooperation in areas such as new industrialization and AI, accelerate the development of new quality productive forces, and provide all people with a future full of opportunities.

China will always be a member of the Global South and the developing world. It has always been taking actions to promote global development.

China has proposed the Belt and Road Initiative, Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, with the aim of assisting global modernization and achieving shared prosperity.

While pursuing its own development, China also helps other developing countries accelerate their development. Through high-quality development, China is comprehensively advancing Chinese modernization, which will undoubtedly bring new and greater opportunities to global development.

In 2023, China's total import and export of goods reached $5.94 trillion, with outbound investment of $147.85 billion, contributing 32 percent to global economic growth. China will continue to be the largest engine driving global economic growth.

Development concerns the well-being of all humanity. All parties should bear in mind the future and well-being of mankind, pursue peaceful, open and innovation-driven development, build international consensus on development, and foster new growth drivers for global development.

China is ready to work with all parties to help implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, ensure that more development gains will be shared more fairly by people across the world, and usher in a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress for the world.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Walt Mauro, one of the four co-defendants in the Top Dollar Pawn money-laundering case, was sentenced Tuesday to five years in the Colorado Department of Corrections with a three-year minimum for parole.

Each of the four defendants  Daria Mauro, Walt Mauro, Mischa Jargowsky and Jack Jargowsky  face 29 charges, including a pattern of racketeering and money laundering, after their arrests in 2022.

The defendants were accused of laundering money over four years at Top Dollar Pawn locations in Colorado Springs and Pueblo. Investigators said the operation resulted in the transfer of more than $1.3 million in stolen goods.

Court records obtained by The Gazette allege Top Dollar Pawn employees knowingly accepted stolen goods still in packaging from boosters and would sell those items in their stores or on eBay at a profit. Some of these items would still have the security tag attached.

Colorado law requires that pawnbrokers must be given a receipt of purchase on items still considered new and in packaging to confirm that these items were not stolen.

Pawnbrokers also are required to keep an electronic record of these items and the identification of the seller. Records allege that Top Dollar Pawn ignored both requirements.

Undercover law enforcement officers attempted to sell new and unopened goods to multiple pawn shops in the area. According to 4th Judicial District Court Judge David Gilbert, other pawn shops declined the sales, in accordance with the law. Top Dollar Pawn bought items from undercover officers on several occasions, with few questions asked.

According to Gilbert, at one point, an officer encouraged Mauro to stop accepting items without following Colorado law, which Mauro ignored.

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Before the sentencing, Mauro gave a brief statement in which he asked for probation and community service instead of seeing jail time. During his statement, visibly shaken and teary-eyed Mauro claimed the operation was never about the money and that the staff of the pawn shop did not take advantage of customers.

I have realized I just liked to work, Mauro said. I could have been successful anywhere.

Since his arrest in 2022, Mauro no longer has desire to work in the pawn shop industry again, said his attorney Cindy Hyatt. He has been working in construction and is able to provide for his family.

Hyatt argued for probation and community service, claiming that it would be enough, and jail time would cause hardships to Mauros family. Mauro did not have a criminal record prior to his 2022 arrest.

Judge Gilbert told Mauro that he didnt believe the lack of awareness over consequences of his actions. Gilbert said the operation fed the habits of drug dealers and users, and likely caused overdoses within the community.

Gilbert said to the courtroom that probation and community service would undermine respect for the law and depreciate the seriousness of the crime.

The other three defendants are each at different places in their court proceedings.

Court records show that Mischa Jargowsky went to trial in February, was found guilty of three counts of money laundering and one count of pattern of racketeering, and was sentenced to eight years of community corrections. However, in a hearing in May, her sentence was postponed by Gilbert because of a continuing appeal.

Jack Jargowsky has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is to begin trial on July 8.

There are no longer criminal filings against Daria Mauro in El Paso County, according to court records, implying her case was dismissed by the District Attorneys Office.
Three school districts across El Paso County are among this years recipients of the Colorado Department of Educations annual Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) Grant funding.

Widefield School District 3, Hanover School District 28 and Peyton School District 23-JT are among this years 19 recipients of approximately $183 million to replace aging infrastructure and, in some cases, entire schools.

Since 2008, BEST has awarded about $3.7 billion in grants for the construction of schools as well as general construction and renovation of existing school facility systems and structures.

During its June meeting last week, the State Board of Education approved 19 school construction grants for 15 school districts, two charter schools and one Board of Cooperative Educational Services.

Colorado students and educators need and deserve high-quality spaces and places for learning, education commissioner Susana Cordova said in a news release. BEST grants not only support school districts with new construction but also provide funding to keep existing buildings in good repair.

About $120 million for this years projects will be funded by income from the Colorado State Land Board, marijuana excise taxes, Colorado Lottery spillover and earned interest.

For the remaining $63 million, applicants will be expected to contribute matching funds.

In the event that an awarded project fails to secure its matching funds, a separate list of backup projects has also been prioritized this year and includes upgrades at Colorado Early Colleges Colorado Springs, James Irwin Elementary School-Howard and James Irwin Elementary School-Astrozon.

Peyton Elementary School will replace its 30-year-old roof for $807,000 through a combination of grant funding and the districts general fund, capital reserve and a previously passed mill levy.

According to the districts application for the grant, the roofs construction is scheduled for summer 2025.

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We are unable to predict when catastrophic failure of our roof system will occur, the application reads. We understand our roof is beyond its useful life span and the significance of the shrinkage, frequency and severity of the water entry events will increase.

Over in Fountain, Prairie Heights Elementary School will receive over $13.2 million to address its failing roof, inadequate water treatment, improper security measures, mechanical system failures, inadequate electrical systems, improper ventilation, and sewage backups stemming from aging facilities. Nearly $8 million will come from the grant, while 5.3 million will be funded by the districts utilities department and a 2022 bond.

In D-3, the grant worth up to nearly $2.9 million will finance a new roof, HVAC system and new boilers for Janitell Junior High School. Per the agreement, the district will match over $5 million toward the project. The funds come by way of a certificate of participation loan, which is financing for capital assets paid out of existing operating funds instead of selling bonds from an election.

The district has been awarded six BEST grants since 2019, with over $5.2 million going toward improved safety and security, asbestos removal, boiler replacements and other building renovations across its schools.

Elsewhere in Colorado Springs, Atlas Preparatory School, Harrison School District 2 and Mountain Song Community School were among last years beneficiaries of over $32.5 million in upgrades due, in part, to BEST grants.

The current roof, rooftop units, and boilers at Janitell are over 50 years old and are among the renovation projects at 17 schools recently detailed throughout the district that have yet to begin.

With this BEST grant, the district will be able to offset some of the costs of the project which will allow us to put more district CAP (capital improvement projects) funds into needs for other sites, said D-3s chief operations officer Dave Gish in a separate news release.

Though there are no plans for votes on this years November ballot, the hope is for future funding for the remaining projects to come from a future bond.

We will continue to apply for grants and seek additional funding opportunities, but we are looking at asking voters for assistance in 2025 to give our staff, students and community the facilities they need and deserve, Gish said.
The Colorado Springs Fire Department is on scene responding to a working fire at 9960 San Luis Park Ct.

CSFD posted on social media Wednesday afternoon making the community aware of the structure fire. CSFD Engine 15 is on scene.

According to the post, the fire was on the top floor of the structure but the building was safely evacuated of residents.

Crews arrived within eight minutes and worked to extinguish what was determined to be an attic fire. CSFD reports that 29 firefighters were on scene.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown. No roads are blocked at this time.
At least three motorcycles were involved in a crash north of downtown Colorado Springs near Penrose Hospital Tuesday night, Gazette news partner KOAA reports.

One person died in the wreck and the other two riders fled, Colorado Springs police said. Speed is a possible factor.

CSPD posted on social media Tuesday night, saying that both directions of North Nevada Avenue were closed from East Van Buren Street to East Jackson Street due to the traffic crash.

If anyone has information on the crash or the two people who fled, they are asked to call Crime Stoppers at 719-634-7867.
A federal judge has temporarily blocked a state law that would have allowed the arrest and forced removal of immigrants in Iowa if they had previously been denied entry.

Judge Stephen Locher of the Southern District of Iowa said in a ruling Monday that the law was preempted by federal law, siding with the Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice and the federal Justice Department who sued the state over the law.

As a matter of politics, the new legislation might be defensible. As a matter of constitutional law, it is not, he wrote in his ruling.

The law would allow Iowa law enforcement officials to arrest and charge a non-citizen with a crime if they are in the state and have previously been blocked from entering the country or deported. A judge would then be able to order the person to leave the country or face prison time.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, a Republican who signed the bill into law, and Republican Attorney General Brenna Bird said they would appeal the decision.

"With this injunction states are left defenseless to the ongoing crisis at our southern border," Reynolds said in a statement. "Plainly, the Biden administration is failing to do their job and enforce federal immigration laws allowing millions to enter and reenter without any consequence or delay."

Bird said in a statement that Biden had failed to secure the southern border, causing states to take border enforcement into their own hands.

"Iowa never would have had to pass this law to begin with if it werent for Bidens open borders," Bird said. "Rather than suing Iowa for enforcing immigration laws, he should do his duty to secure the border."

The ACLU of Iowa celebrated the ruling in a statement, calling the law among the worst anti-immigrant legislation in Iowas history.

"The court powerfully and accurately found that the law is 'untenable,' ACLU of Iowa legal director Rita Bettis Austen said. This state law conflicts with federal law and dumps the responsibility of immigration enforcement on state and local law enforcement and judges. Local law enforcement in Iowa have spoken up to say that they don't want this duty, given the significant ways that such enforcement would erode the ability of local law enforcement to protect public safety."

The law is similar to a Texas law that is temporarily blocked while an appeals court weighs a challenge.

Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice (MMJ) sued Bird and county officials to stop the law last month, and Biden's Justice Department sued the state in a separate lawsuit. The injunction covers both lawsuits.

Iowa MMJ sued on behalf of two anonymous Iowa residents who gained legal residency after previously being deported from the U.S. They argued they could be prosecuted under the law despite being legal residents of the U.S. The state, though, argued that they lacked standing because they were not covered by the law.

Locher sided with the plaintiffs, pointing out that there is no language in the law that exempts legal residents from being charged with a crime. The law states that any non-citizen who was previously asked to leave the country, who is found in the state, can be prosecuted under the law.

While the law was modeled after federal legislation, the Legislature specifically left out language that would exempt legal residents from being charged with a crime under the law, Locher said.

It follows that they have a credible fear of prosecution, and thus standing to challenge Senate File 2340, Locher wrote. The Attorney Generals promise not to prosecute people within Senate File 2340s plain language doesnt change this.

The Justice Department argued the law risks antagonizing foreign governments, undermining federal immigration policy, and causing retaliatory treatment of U.S. citizens abroad.

The immigration laws passed by Iowa and other states, if allowed to go into effect, will create a piecemeal system of immigration and force the federal government to navigate an impossible patchwork of regulations affecting the enforcement of federal law,  Locher wrote, quoting an Immigration and Customs Enforcement official.

Biden announced a plan this month to block migrants from being granted asylum when encounters at the border reach a certain level. The executive action came after Republican lawmakers opposed a bipartisan deal that would have imposed immigration restrictions through Congress.

Activists vow to keep fighting law in court

Activists vowed to continue fighting the law as it goes through the appeals process, celebrating the win they were granted on Monday and preparing for more legal proceedings.

Petra Mujica, an Iowa City resident and member of the eastern Iowa immigrant aid group Escucha Mi Voz, said the ruling is only buying more time, and the group will continue to rally against the law.

"We have to keep fighting, we have to keep going on, because this is not over yet. We have not received what we want," she said in a call with reporters Monday night. "We want to stop the law, we want to cancel the law. That's what we want."

Escucha Mi Voz and the Iowa City Catholic Worker, two groups that work with immigrant communities, will still hold planned demonstrations in Iowa City, Waterloo and Des Moines on July 1 to protest the law, representatives said.

"We believe that it's alright to keep fighting, because we are here, we are part of Iowa," said Manny Galvez, a member of Escucha Mi Voz. "We are part of the communities, the workplaces, the churches. And it's not fair that because some governor is playing a political game, an electoral game, we can separate families."
A Helena mother and daughter were charged with felony exploitation of an older person, incapacitated person or person with developmental disabilities after a man claimed they forged documents related to a land deal, court documents state.

Ana Sophia Dupond Rangel, 21, and Emma Rangel, 51, were charged after a deputy was dispatched for a reported violation of a protection order.

The 74-year-old man owns two lots of property totaling about 70 acres, with his residence located on the roughly 50-acre lot.

Court documents filed Tuesday in Lewis and Clark County Justice Court state the defendants and man provided a notarized earnest money and buy-sell agreement that stated the man would sell the 20-acre lot to Emma Rangel for $250,000.

The man told the deputy the Rangels were trying to steal his land and forged documents.

Although the man agreed to this deal and signed the document in front of a notary, he told the deputy.

Ana Rangel's attorney gave the deputy a second handwritten agreement that said the man would sell the approximately 70 acres and his residence to Emma Rangel for $250,000.

Court documents state the attorney told the deputy that the mother and daughter provided the man with this document, but it was not notarized.

The handwritten document was signed by Emma Rangel and the man, but the man said he had never seen the paperwork before and would not sell his land for that price, documents state.

The handwritten agreement was signed Sept. 7, 2023, and the notarized version was signed Sept. 22, 2023, according to court documents.

Emma and Ana Rangel told deputies they thought it was a "fair deal" and when they were asked to present the original unnotarized version of the agreement, Ana Rangel said she was keeping it hidden somewhere in Madison County, documents state.

Ana Rangel translated everything for her mother in Spanish during the questioning, but it was ended because it was unknown what they were saying.

The handwritten document was sent to the Department of Justice to a handwriting expert, who said they did not believe the man's signature was written by him.

After developing a relationship with the man, the two became antagonistic, making claims that he physically assaulted Ana Rangel and pointed a gun at her, documents state.

Ana Rangel told deputies she was granted an order of protection against the man, but there were no records to support the claim, court documents state.

Ana Rangel told deputies she feared for her life from the man because she lived "on or next to" the 20-acre lot and did not report it to law enforcement because the man allegedly threatened to kill her if she did, deputies said in reports.

Deputies observed the man, who frequently used walls while going down steps and moved "slowly and carefully," determining it was unlikely he chased the 21-year-old down the stairs to physically assault her, court records state.

After further investigation into a previous case involving the two defendants, where they acquired roughly $50,000 from an elderly couple in Madison County, investigators found similarities.

Ana and Emma Rangel were arrested under probable cause on June 17.
BABB  Bill Powell said he'd seen worse, but he still fretted over the gaping ravine cut through his property by a torrent of water unleashed from burst irrigation canal pipes Monday.

The St. Mary Canal siphon, comprising two 7.5-foot diameter steel pipes in a system built from 1912-15, failed suddenly and completely. One pipe ruptured just before 9 a.m., when a newly developed crack rapidly grew into a massive blowout that sent 300 cubic feet of water per second, or 2,244 gallons each second, rocketing out onto the grassy hillside the pipes traverse.

The staggering force of the water  the pipe's quarter-inch steel flapped like soft plastic around the rupture  eroded the earth and concrete supports of the second pipe, which failed that afternoon. The combined 4,488 gallons of water rushing out each second inundated Powell's business, the Hook's Hideaway bar, restaurant, motel, campground and roping arena, and created a flow of mud and gravel that mostly filled the adjacent St. Mary River.

The siphon pipes are part of the Milk River Project, which diverts water from the St. Mary River on the east side of Glacier National Park and sends it instead into the Milk River farther east. The pipes, located north of Babb near the U.S.-Canada border, sit about 9 miles downstream from where a diversion dam on the St. Mary River marks the beginning of the St. Mary Canal. The canal stays at higher elevation than the river; the pipes allow water to flow down a steep hillside from the canal, over the St. Mary River and then up and over a smaller hill to the east.

A facility operator at the site saw the failure occur shortly after he tried to plug the crack, according to Steven Darlinton, a U.S. Bureau of Reclamation project manager. The operator closed the diversion dam about 15 minutes later, stopping more water from entering the canal, but the 9-mile canal was still draining through the ruptures by midweek, a process that officials said could take three days. Stream gauge data showed the canal flowing at 596 cubic feet per second at the time of the rupture. Flow dropped dramatically that day and was down to about 17 cubic feet per second on Wednesday. No injuries were reported during the incident.

The Milk River runs across Montana's largely agrarian Hi-Line region. The Milk River Project, a series of canals, reservoirs and siphons that augment water flow in the river, provides irrigation and drinking water for a roughly 160-mile stretch east of Havre. The enhancements provide for about 60% of the water in the river during a normal year, according to the BOR, and up to 80% in drier years.

The Milk River Project irrigates somewhere between about 120,000 and 180,000 acres across nearly 700 farms, according to varying figures from the project's Joint Board of Control, made of irrigation districts the project serves; the BOR, which oversees and operates the infrastructure; and the Blackfeet Water Department. (Much of the projects infrastructure, including the siphon, is located on the Blackfeet Reservation.) The project provides drinking water for 12,000 to 18,000 people, according to those agencies, including the city of Havre, home to about 9,000 people.

Irrigation impacts

Darlinton, who has been a project manager on the Milk River for a decade, said that the agency would hold back enough water in Fresno Reservoir northwest of Havre to provide drinking water for municipalities. But the 110-mile stretch from Fresno Reservoir to Nelson Reservoir, northeast of Malta, will likely run dry a month early, drastically shortening the time farmers can irrigate and ranchers can provide water for livestock.

"Irrigation is going to be a significant impact," Darlinton said. "Were looking at water being out between Fresno and Nelson around mid- to late July. With irrigation running it was mid-August."

A 2023 BOR study, part of an analysis of replacing the St. Mary diversion dam that feeds the canal, concluded that a failure of the canal system would cause severe and widespread impacts across the stretch of the Hi-Line that relies on the Milk River for irrigation. Economic impacts, the agency determined, would likely extend beyond farmers and also hurt local and regional businesses, families and broader economies.

The federal government recently awarded an $88 million contract to replace the diversion dam upstream of the siphon pipes, with work scheduled to begin this year. The money came from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2021.

Ryan Newman, the BOR's Montana area manager, told the Associated Press this week that design work to replace the siphon pipes, which the agency had been eyeing long before Monday's failure, was 60% complete.

In an office next to the stricken siphon pipes on Tuesday, Darlinton said there had been signs the system could catastrophically fail. Infrastructure along the project is deteriorated and in need of replacement, he said, but funding has been a perpetual barrier to major upgrades.

Farmers who use water from the Milk River Project are collectively responsible for 75% of the system's operating and maintenance costs, according to the terms of a more than century-old agreement that led to the project's creation. The federal government covers the rest. That means it's up to Congress to send additional money for larger projects, like the diversion dam replacement.

"There has been signs, whether its a crack in the siphon that weve repaired, whether its through a temporary welding patch," Darlinton said. "If you look at the pipe, its pretty patched and welded a lot. So weve been working through that. The reason that we havent been able to do more than that is due to lack of funding."

Next week, he said, a technical team including BOR engineers and geologists and an engineer contracted by the irrigation districts is set to inspect the site as the agencies develop short- and long-term solutions. The agencies are scheduled to present preliminary information at a public meeting in Malta on July 9.

"Were probably going to focus on two things," he said. "Is there a temporary solution to move water quickly this year, and then look at a permanent fix that HDR (engineering firm) is currently designing."

"There are no solutions off the table," said Jennifer Patrick, project manager for the Milk River Joint Board of Control. "We are looking at everything."

"All water operations at this point have ceased, said Patrick, whose Malta-based organization advocates for fair and affordable water distribution from the Milk River Project.

The Milk River Joint Board of Control sent a letter to federal officials asking that they exhaust all funding options before placing the financial burden on Milk River irrigators.

Local impacts

This week, Darlinton said, the BOR's primary focus is restoring vehicle access and power to Powell's business, which became suddenly isolated when the torrent washed out the only road in. On Tuesday, BOR equipment operators used a bulldozer and front loader to build a new roadbed down the hillside to Hook's Hideaway and coat it with trucked-in gravel.

Powell, 65, said a BOR worker came by his house, which wasn't affected by the blowout, just after 9 a.m. Monday to warn him of the failure and advise him to let steers out of a rapidly flooding corral. A worker navigated a rush of waist-deep water to let them out, he said, and water was flowing about 4-feet deep near some of his buildings. Powell's only access to the area was down a steep, un-roaded hillside north of the pipes that wasn't affected.

Water rushed around the bar he built 28 years ago by having a barn enclosed, he said, but didn't come into the structure. He did find mud in a crawlspace underneath, he said, leaving some concern about foundation damage. The motel sits on higher ground, but the corrals and roping arena below the bar was a mess of soft, deep mud and heaps of logs, gravel and large rocks all deposited by the water. The flow also caused severe erosion around the well that provides drinking water to the business, and he wasn't sure if it was still working.

The 15 rooms in the motel go for $210 a night, and Powell had to cancel 30 bookings for this weekend  $6,300 in lost revenue.

But Powell didn't fault the BOR for the failure. The agency has been a good neighbor, he said, and he likes the workers, most of whom are locals. As a former longtime rancher who once had 600 head of cattle, he said, he'd been through other, worse hardships in life. He just hoped road access and electricity would be restored soon.

K. Webb Galbreath, the Blackfeet Water Department director, visited the site shortly after the pipe failed Monday.

"I couldnt really believe it, you know?" he said. "Theres one video where the metal's kind of flapping and it looks like plastic, and I believe its quarter-inch steel. Theres a lot of power behind that water. It's kind of amazing that something like that would happen."

He too didn't fault the BOR.

"I dont think this is a fault of anybody or anything  its just old," he said. "Its probably 50 years past its prime."

Paul Hamby reported from Billings.
The fifth night was the coldest, and Thomas Gray worried he might freeze to death if he stopped moving.

The 73-year-old boater from North Fork, Idaho, was huddled inside a pitch-black trailer just outside the remote Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness on May 21. He was near an empty campground and silent airstrip; the only road there was snowed in and the highway was miles away and over a mountain pass.

Grays story is harrowing and improbable, not only because of his own feat of backcountry survival, but because his brother died two years earlier, almost to the day, in almost the same place, when they attempted the same float that year.

With me today is Joshua Murdock, outdoors and natural resources reporter at the Missoulian. He extensively interviewed Thomas Gray, his wife Lori, the people who found him and the people involved in searching for his brother two years ago.

This podcast is created in partnership across five newsrooms  the Billings Gazette, Helena Independent Record, Missoulian, Montana Standard and Ravalli Republic. You can support this podcast, and our efforts, by becoming a subscriber.
CHICAGO  A 7-year-old boy was shot and killed Tuesday afternoon as he walked to a neighbors home on Chicago's Near West Side.

The boy was shot in the chest as he walked from his familys home in an apartment complex in the 2300 block of West Jackson Boulevard to the sidewalk around 3 p.m., Chicago police Superintendent Larry Snelling told reporters near Stroger Hospital.

Officers found the wounded boy and rushed him to Stroger in their squad car where he was pronounced dead, Snelling said. The Cook County medical examiners office identified the boy as Jaimani Amir Rivera. Officials said his time of death was 3:39 p.m. An autopsy was scheduled for Wednesday.

Outside the hospital, Snelling was joined by Mayor Brandon Johnson, who lambasted the violence that has appeared to have increased with a recent rise in temperatures.

I can tell you that the weapon that was used to kill this baby was illegal and has no business on the streets of Chicago, or anywhere else for that matter, Johnson said. This is about our response to policies that have created conditions that have made it impossible for families to feel comfortable raising their children in Chicago.

This is a time where I can tell you right now the violence thats going on in the city, for the parents of the 7-year-old has to be unbearable unbearable and unacceptable for everyone in our city, Snelling said. The random shooting of this 7-year-old is unacceptable.

Snelling said he did not believe the child was targeted, but didnt offer a motive, as the investigation was just underway.

Before the news conference, residents of the complex where the boy was shot told reporters that shootings in the area can feel indiscriminate at times and they have become increasingly fearful for their safety.

Whenever they see their targets, they shoot, Sequinna Coakley said. Your grandmother could be out here, your mother could be out here. Your daddy, sister, brother, it doesnt matter.

Another neighbor, Ethiopia Jackson, said shed heard gunshots in the Oakley Square apartment complex for the past several days. Neighbors mentioned a shooting on the same block on June 10 that left an 18-year-old man with a gunshot wound to the leg.

Police officers and sergeants could be seen reviewing video footage at the gated entrance to the complex and walking in and out of an east-facing entrance to the apartment building late Tuesday afternoon, where crime tape blocked large sections of the parking lot and sidewalk.

Through last Friday, the city had seen nearly 50 fewer homicides than the same time last year. Still, the city saw a violent Fathers Day weekend with seven homicides and 45 shooting victims in 35 incidents, according to police.

Snelling said the lower death totals werent cause for celebration when 127 juveniles had been shot this year.

Weve had 17 who have lost their lives to gun violence, he said. Those (homicide) numbers are significantly down from last year but still unacceptable. What we need to talk about is how were going to protect our children.
For about seven years, the clock tower over the North Carolina School for the Deaf was only right twice a day.

Drew Pollard, director of facilities and engineering at NCSD, said the motor on the clock failed around 2016 or 2017. The project was postponed for a few years, but recently the school was able to replace the motor.

The clocks hands remained still.

School staff reached out to Brian Sea, a computer science instructor at the NC School of Science and Mathematics, to ask if any students were interested in helping update the programming in the clock. Senior Eric Apostal, from Mooresville, volunteered for the task.

It was so different, Apostal said. Ive never done anything like this before. Its really cool. I didnt think Id ever be able to say, I coded a clock tower. Its a very different experience.

Apostal used Python coding language, one of the most popular coding languages in the world, Sea said. Its commonly used in artificial intelligence, machine learning and robotics.

This is probably Erics first time writing software where the user was  a non-developer audience, Sea said.

Apostal, who graduated from the school of science and math on May 24 and plans to attend NC State University to study computer science, said coding for the clock tower was truly a learning experience.

Account for everything, Apostal said. If you think  theres going to be something thats not going to be as intuitive to the user, its not going to be as intuitive to the user. If there is an issue you think is going to arise, that is going to arise. When youre coding, just always keep in the back of your mind that the user isnt you.

Apostals work brought a symbol of the North Carolina School for the Deaf back to life.

Superintendent Mark Patrick said the school for the deaf has been focusing on the beautification of campus over the last few years. After several attempts were made to fix the clock tower, Patrick said North Carolina School for the Deaf decided to reach out to NC School of Science and Mathematics.

One of the things that we spoke about in the beginning (of sharing campuses) was we wanted to really be able to have a strong collaboration between both of the schools, Patrick said. We are fortunate to be able to have these types of opportunities with cross-collaboration where our students have went over to NCSSM for programs and vice versa, where NCSSM students have come and really enriched the lives of our students, but our students have also enriched the lives of NCSSM students as well.

He said the clock is much more to the school than a way to tell time.

The clock itself is the beacon of what our school means, said Patrick. Its our representation of deaf education in North Carolina. Its our beacon of light.

Best colleges in North Carolina Best colleges in North Carolina #10. University of North Carolina - Wilmington #9. University of North Carolina at Charlotte #8. University of North Carolina - Greensboro #7. Appalachian State University #6. University of North Carolina School of the Arts #5. North Carolina State University #4. Wake Forest University #3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill #2. Davidson College #1. Duke University
Wednesday, June 19

The Weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. in the church parlor of Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

The Cabarrus Senior Center Photo Club is alive and clicking away. If you like taking photos, come join the members on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Cabarrus Senior Center, 331 Corban Ave. SE, Concord, and share your photographic creativity. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or strictly amateur, all are welcome.

Thursday, June 20

The Kannapolis Farmers Market is held from 4-7 p.m. in the Oak Avenue mall parking lot at the corner of Vance Street and Dale Earnhardt Boulevard. Vendors offer a wide variety of fresh, local produce, as well as meat, eggs, baked goods, crafts, and prepared foods.

Friday, June 21

The Concord Duplicate Bridge Club hosts face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at the Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. The cost is $5 per game. Details at www.bridgewebs.com/concord. During June and July, all games are hosted at the Concord Fire Station No. 12, 3300 Roberta Road. If you dont have a partner, the website has some information on Find a Partner.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, June 22

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 8 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St. S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and takeout. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

The Town of Mount Pleasant's annual Independence Celebration begins with the parade starts at 5 pm; DJ Eric Bowman begins the music at 6 pm; "A Taste of Mount Pleasant" showcasing our local restaurants will be featured.Too Much Sylvia will play from 7 to 10 p.m;. A shag contest will be held at intermission; The fireworks are at 10 p.m. The festivities take place in Mount Pleasant's Tall Hall Park.

Monday, June 24

The Concord Duplicate Bridge Club hosts face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at the Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. The cost is $5 per game. Details at www.bridgewebs.com/concord. During June and July, all games are hosted at the Concord Fire Station No. 12, 3300 Roberta Road. If you dont have a partner, the website has some information on Find a Partner.

Tuesday, June 25

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

Wednesday, June 26

The Weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. in the church parlor of Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

Thursday, June 27

The Kannapolis Farmers Market is held from 4-7 p.m. in the Oak Avenue mall parking lot at the corner of Vance Street and Dale Earnhardt Boulevard. Vendors offer a wide variety of fresh, local produce, as well as meat, eggs, baked goods, crafts, and prepared foods.

The Piedmont Choral Society performs annually around July 4 to benefit local nonprofits. This concert, which will benefit Special Olympics of Cabarrus County, will be at 7 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church, 950 Bradley St., Concord,

Friday, June 28

The Concord Duplicate Bridge Club hosts face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at the Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. The cost is $5 per game. Details at www.bridgewebs.com/concord. During June and July, all games are hosted at the Concord Fire Station No. 12, 3300 Roberta Road. If you dont have a partner, the website has some information on Find a Partner.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Piedmont Choral Society performs annually around July 4 to benefit local nonprofits. This concert will be at 7 p.m. Calvary Lutheran Church, 950 Bradley St., Concord.

Life Celebration Cremations & Burials will have a blood drive from 1-6 p.m. at 121 Georgia St. SW, Concord. Call 704-787-8446 for more information.

Saturday, June 29

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 8 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St. S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and takeout. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

Sunday, June 30

The Piedmont Choral Society performs annually around July 4 to benefit local nonprofits. This concert to benefit Special Olympics of Cabarrus County will be at 3 p.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church, 950 Bradley St., Concord.

Mt. Mitchell Global Methodist Church will be holding its Annual July 4th Celebration at 7 p.m. The church will be serving hot dogs followed by fireworks. The church is located at 6001 Old Salisbury Concord Road, Kannapolis. For more information, call 704-933-0155.

Monday, July 1

The Concord Duplicate Bridge Club hosts face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at the Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. The cost is $5 per game. Details at www.bridgewebs.com/concord. During June and July, all games are hosted at the Concord Fire Station No. 12, 3300 Roberta Road. If you dont have a partner, the website has some information on Find a Partner.

Tuesday, July 2

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

The Papa Capps Open Stage/Open Mic Variety Show will be at Old Courthouse Theatres Annex Black Box Theatre (47 Spring St. NW, Concord). Doors open at 7 p.m., sign-ups start at 7:15, show starts at 7:30. It will be family friendly from 7:30-8:45, then Black Box After Darkmya have more mature themes. Please note the Black Box Theatre is only accessible by stairs.

Wednesday, July 3

The Weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at church parlor of Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

Thursday, July 4

The Kannapolis Farmers Market is held from 4-7 p.m. in the Oak Avenue mall parking lot at the corner of Vance Street and Dale Earnhardt Boulevard. Vendors offer a wide variety of fresh, local produce, as well as meat, eggs, baked goods, crafts, and prepared foods.

Friday, July 5

The Concord Duplicate Bridge Club hosts face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at the Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. The cost is $5 per game. Details at www.bridgewebs.com/concord. During June and July, all games are hosted at the Concord Fire Station No. 12, 3300 Roberta Road. If you dont have a partner, the website has some information on Find a Partner.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, July 6

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 8 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St. S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and takeout. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

Monday, July 8

The Concord Duplicate Bridge Club hosts face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at the Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. The cost is $5 per game. Details at www.bridgewebs.com/concord. During June and July, all games are hosted at the Concord Fire Station No. 12, 3300 Roberta Road. If you dont have a partner, the website has some information on Find a Partner.

Tuesday, July 9

TOPS #437 (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 10 a.m. (weigh-in begins at 9:30 a.m.) at Lakeview Baptist Church, 2532 Lane St., Kannapolis. Visitors are welcome.

Wednesday, July 10

The Weekly Bible study will be at 11:30 a.m. at church parlor of Calvary Lutheran Church, Concord. Hosted by Pastor Debbie Frye.

Thursday, July 11

The Kannapolis Farmers Market is held from 4-7 p.m. in the Oak Avenue mall parking lot at the corner of Vance Street and Dale Earnhardt Boulevard. Vendors offer a wide variety of fresh, local produce, as well as meat, eggs, baked goods, crafts, and prepared foods.

Friday, July 12

The Concord Duplicate Bridge Club hosts face-to-face games through Concord Parks and Recreation at the Hartsell Recreation Center, 60 Hartsell School Road, at noon. The cost is $5 per game. Details at www.bridgewebs.com/concord. During June and July, all games are hosted at the Concord Fire Station No. 12, 3300 Roberta Road. If you dont have a partner, the website has some information on Find a Partner.

Hot dogs at McGill Baptist Church, 5300 Poplar Tent Road, will be sold along with fried bologna and barbecue sandwiches and desserts from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday, July 13

The Piedmont Farmers Market is open from 8 a.m. to noon at 518 Winecoff School Road. It features lots of local produce, meat, flowers and other products.

Hot dogs at Center United Methodist Church at 1119 Union St. S., are offered on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine in and takeout. Call-in orders are welcomed at 704-782-1785.

Does your community group or nonprofit agency have an upcoming event that would be of interest to the public? Email it to mplemmons@independenttribune.com.
For Cabarrus County native Shameka Lawing, moving into her own home, after years of struggle and uncertainty, meant the world to her and her family.

It means so much for me and my kids, she told The Independent Tribune during her home dedication Tuesday afternoon. Its security, affordability and just being part of a community.

Lawing is the third new homeowner to move into a home on Academy Avenue built by Habitat for Humanity Cabarrus County over the past two months, joining Phyllis Meaders, who had her home dedication in late April, and Charlene Phifer, who had her dedication in mid-May.

Habitat Cabarrus has built more than 170 homes for people in the community who are cost-burdened since its inception in 1986.

The home was primarily funded by the countys 2020-2021 HOME funds, which it received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Lawing, 42, will be living in the home  which includes four bedrooms and two bathrooms  with her four children, ages 7 to 11. They are so excited, she said.

Lawing completed more than 400 volunteer hours of sweat equity on her home and those of other homebuyers  much more than the required 250. I was very proud of myself, she said, noting she pushed herself so much physically that she canceled her gym membership.

It has not been easy for Lawing over the past few years, as she was furloughed from a stable food service job during the pandemic and struggled to find employment.

But she always kept the faith and never lost hope. Even when she found a new job that paid less than her old one, there was a silver lining: She was able to qualify to become an applicant for Habitat.

God has just really blessed me through this whole entire process, Lawing told the crowd during her home dedication.

She is grateful not just for her new home, but for the people she has met through the hours of volunteering, including the Weekday Warriors, Habitat officials and other current and future homeowners.

Habitat brings people together, Lawing said. We build relationships and this is now a community, so I can actually say that I have a family outside of my family: my Habitat Cabarrus family.
Telecommunications company Telstra announced it will provide 12,000 free mobile phones to its most disadvantaged, elderly or remote customers across Australia to help them transition to the 4G network.

Telstra's 3G network is set to shut down on 31 August.

Last May, the telco delayed its 3G shutdown for more months to give time to users to upgrade their devices.

It was "concerned" thousands of Australians could be blocked from making emergency calls once the 20-year-old network has been shut down.

Also in May, Telstra estimated about 113,000 customers were still using 3G-only phones. These will no longer work once the network is switched off.

It gave a new approximation that around 156,000 customers will now be affected.

A subset of older 4G handsets will also be affected because of the way they're configured, default to the 3G network for Triple Zero calls. Per the ABC, more than a million mobile phones could be cut.

"These customers are in difficult situations, and facing things such as financial hardship, or recovering from a natural disaster," wrote Telstra consumer segment executive Marty McGrath in a post.

"Some of these customers also depend on a working phone because they are living with a life-threatening medical condition (our Priority Assistance customers)."

"Many of these customers are also over 80 years old and living in regional areas, which can make visiting our stores challenging."

The Salvation Army, an international charity organisation, commended Telstra's move.

"This initiative will benefit the most vulnerable members of our community. Connection is one of the most important things to maintain in our society, whether it is with friends and family or with housing and support services."

"Ensuring that every Australian, from any background or level of income, can take part in our modern digital society is crucial. A phone can be a gateway to social inclusion, community connection and support, and with the upcoming closure of 3G networks in Australia it is important for us to reach out and ensure that this can continue for everyone.

Telstra said customers affected by the shutdown should hear a pre-recorded message when making calls on their mobile phone.

Telstra urged customers not to ignore this and upgrade to newer technology.

Anyone unsure if their phone will be affected can also send a SMS 3 to 3498 (3GXT) to check.
The Albanese Government claimed more than 2,500 South Australian families are benefiting from the free broadband initiative.

The government said it is funding the School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI) worth $8.8 million to connect up to 30,000 families without internet at home.

Due to the initiative, the government added South Australia has the greatest number of connected families as a proportion of their overall student population.

More than 2,500 families in South Australiafrom 13,000 across the countryhave already been connected to free internet.

The Commonwealth is proud to have partnered with the South Australian Government to connect over two thousand five hundred families without internet at home to quality, reliable, and free broadband, said Communications Minister Michelle Rowland.

This initiative is making a real difference to Australian families who need it most. The flow on benefits from the program are incredible, with families able to access remote learning, tele-health and government support services for the very first time.

To be eligible, a family must:

- Have a child living at home enrolled in an Australian school;

- Have no active broadband service over the NBN network;

- Live in a premises where they can access a standard NBN service.

- Not have an active NBN service during the previous 14 days

Once assessed, families are issued with a voucher that they can redeem with a participating internet provider.

The free service begins from the day the service is activated and will be available until 31 December 2025.
GUEST RESEARCH: Dragos, the global leader in cybersecurity for operational technology (OT) environments, has released its Australian 2023 OT Cybersecurity Year in Review report, providing an important view of the significant cybersecurity trends impacting industrial infrastructure organisations.

Of the 905 global ransomware incidents impacting industrial organisations last year, 13 incidents involved Australian organisations. Several incidents, such as DP World Australia, brought into focus the possibility of cascading effects and impacts of ransomware on industrial operations, supply chains, and consumers.

With each passing year, the number of ransomware incidents globally climbs even higher, leading to cascading impacts for virtually every industrial sector, particularly manufacturing, said Dragos Asia Pacific area vice president Hayley Turner.

Meanwhile, the number of vulnerabilities present in industrial control systems (ICS) continue to grow exponentially, along with the adversaries appetite to exploit them.

Based on customer engagements across various industries within the past year, electric, oil and gas, water, and manufacturing sectors made moderate improvements in their ICS/OT cybersecurity posture on average, but industrial organisations still struggle with passwords and still more are unable to detect threats to their ICS/OT environment.

Now is time to take bigger strides, continues Turner. Addressing this challenge requires coordinated efforts from partners across Australias cybersecurity community and, when necessary, emergency measures to mitigate adverse effects on critical business operations and the communities they serve.

Key vulnerability findings

In 2023, Dragos saw the emergence of three new threat groups, including Voltzite linked to Volt Typhoon, and found that ransomware continued to be the most reported cyber threat among industrial organisations with a nearly 50% increase in reported incidents. Globally, Dragos now tracks 21 threat groups engaged in OT operations in 2023.

Of the three new groups, Voltzite targets electric power generation, transmission, and distribution, and has also been observed targeting research, technology, defence industrial bases, satellite services, telecommunications, and educational organisations. The group overlaps with Volt Typhoon, a group that the US Government publicly linked to the Peoples Republic of China. The groups threat activities include living off the land techniques, prolonged surveillance, and data gathering aligned with Volt Typhoons assessed objectives of reconnaissance and gaining geopolitical advantage in the Asia Pacific region. They have traditionally targeted US-based facilities but have been seen targeting organisations in Africa and Southeast Asia.

Additional global findings include:

80% of vulnerabilities reside deep within the ICS network

16% of advisories were network exploitable and perimeter facings

53% of the advisories analysed could cause both a loss of view and loss of control, up from 51% in 2022

31% of advisories contained errors and Dragos provided mitigations for 49% of the advisories that had none

Key ransomware findings

Ransomware remains the number one attack globally in the industrial sector increasing 50% from 2022. Globally, Lockbit caused 25% of total industrial ransomware attacks, with ALPHV and BlackBasta accounting for 9% each. The manufacturing sector continues to be the primary target of ransomware and accounted for 71 % of all ransomware attacks. Ransomware groups do not explicitly target ICS and OT, but risks to these environments are introduced by precautionary operations shutdowns to limit the impact of an attack, flattened industrial networks, and the integration of ICS/OT kill processes into ransomware strains.

The Lockbit 3.0 compromise of DP World Australia in November, which handles 40% of goods coming in and out of Australia, led to the shutdown of land-side port operations for three days while the incident was contained. Though no ransomware was deployed in this case, it was not until 10 days after first detecting the incident that DP World Australia was able to clear 100% of the backlog, comprising 30,137 containers.

Threats to Australian infrastructure escalated

Australias Cyber and Infrastructure Security Centre (CISC) and a joint effort by agencies from the Five Eyes intelligence Alliance shed light on the intensifying OT cyber threat landscape, with a sharp focus on foreign espionage and interference as prime threats to critical infrastructure.

The Australian Signals Directorates Annual Cyber Threat Report revealed a 50% jump in cyber incidents targeting such infrastructure, highlighting the alarming trend that these sectors are increasingly preyed upon out of motivation to gain geopolitical advantages. The involvement of sophisticated threat groups underscores the critical necessity for robust cybersecurity measures and the importance of private and public partnerships in Australia and internationally. Reinforcing cybersecurity defences and forging strong international alliances are paramount for safeguarding national interests and ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of complex escalating threats.

Key steps taken to ensure security of Australias critical infrastructure

In 2023, the CISC has advanced its efforts to bolster national cybersecurity and resilience, particularly in ICS/OT environments where the challenge of detecting sophisticated threats is increasingly paramount. Key initiatives include the publication of critical infrastructure asset class definition guidance on 12 May 2023, aimed at enhancing operational resilience across 22 sectors, and the activation of the Critical Infrastructure Risk Management Program. The program, part of a trio of security obligations introduced by recent amendments to the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018, alongside Mandatory Cyber Incident Reporting and the Critical Infrastructure Asset Register, marks a strategic endeavour to elevate Australias critical infrastructure security.

These steps signal the urgency and importance of robust asset monitoring, intelligence-based detections for sophisticated threats, and a coordinated response to safeguard essential services that Australians rely upon, concludes Turner.

As ICS/OT cybersecurity becomes a top priority, from boardrooms to the manufacturing floor, leaders and their teams must work together to implement programs and critical safeguards. A first step in implementing critical cybersecurity controls is achieving alignment on the key priorities. Dragos recommends Australian organisations download the SANS Institute identified five critical controls for ICS/OT cybersecurity.

The Australian 2023 Dragos OT Cybersecurity Year in Review report, and the accompanying executive summary, can be downloaded here.

About Dragos

Dragos has a global mission to safeguard civilisation from those trying to disrupt the industrial infrastructure we depend on every day. The Dragos Platform offers the most effective industrial cybersecurity technology, giving customers visibility into their ICS/OT assets, vulnerabilities, threats, and response actions. The strength behind the Dragos Platform comes from our ability to codify Dragoss industry-leading OT threat intelligence, and insights from the Dragos services team, into the software. Our community-focused approach gives you access to the largest array of industrial organisations participating in collective defence, with the broadest visibility available. Our solutions protect organisations across a range of industries, including electric, oil & gas, manufacturing, building automation systems, chemical, government, water, food & beverage, mining, transportation, and pharmaceutical. Dragos is privately held and headquartered in the Washington, DC area with regional presence around the world, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and the Middle East.
The 303-mile Mountain Valley Pipeline began operating Friday after nearly a decade of controversy in West Virginia and Virginia, a development seen as raising the likelihood of a proposed extension south into North Carolinas Piedmont Triad.

The pipeline now transports natural gas starting in West Virginia and passing through six counties in Virginia, ending at a compressor station in Pittsylvania County, which shares a border with Rockingham and Caswell counties in North Carolina.

This is an important and long-awaited day for our nation and the millions of Americans who now have greater access to an abundant supply of domestic natural gas for use as an affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy resource, said Diana Charletta, president and CEO of Equitrans Midstream Corp., the lead partner in the Mountain Valley Pipeline LLC joint venture.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) gave final approval of the original MVP project June 11, following years of regulatory hurdles and legal battles.

Ryke Longest, co-director of the Duke Environmental Law & Policy Clinic, emphasized the broader implications of the approval, noting that the success of the original MVP project is a critical step for the extension to also gain regulatory support. This action makes that more likely, he said.

Originally proposed in 2018, MVP Southgate has faced its own challenges and revisions. Initially planned to span 75 miles and run into Rockingham and Alamance counties, the projects scope was later updated to a 31-mile extension into just Rockingham County, to transport 550 million cubic feet of gas per day after its projected completion in 2028.

In 2020, FERC issued a certificate of public convenience and necessity for the MVP Southgate project. By 2023, the commission had extended the project completion deadline to 2026. Last December , Mountain Valley informed the commission of its intention to revise the scope of the MVP Southgate project, although the revised details have not yet been formally submitted.

The project has encountered opposition from environmental groups and elected officials concerned about its potential environmental impact. Last summer, for example, N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper urged regulators in a letter to deny the certification extension, questioning the necessity of the pipeline. He argued that claims of its necessity are misguided, particularly in light of the states mandate for electric utilities to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Pipelines always leak, the only question is how much and how will the pipeline owner respond, Longest said, pointing to the U.S. Department of Transportations collected statistics on pipelines showing that even with modern construction, pipeline incidents are numerous and dangerous.

Moreover, Longest explained, these incidents do not fully account for the environmental impact of pipeline leaks, which release methane  a potent greenhouse gas that accelerates climate change.

Instead of building new natural gas lines, we should be repairing existing leaks in pipelines and helping industries and consumers phase out the use of methane, or what is marketed as natural gas.

These concerns are rooted in recent events. A rupture on May 1 in Virginia raised concerns among local residents and environmental groups and prompted calls for additional scrutiny. In a letter issued on June 11, however, FERC confirmed that Mountain Valley has adequately stabilized construction-disturbed areas with satisfactory restoration efforts.

Meanwhile, MVP Southgate continues to argue that pipelines represent the safest fuel transportation method, contending that it aims to diversify N.C.s natural gas supply transmission system.

Since developers first proposed the ruinous Mountain Valley Pipeline, their disregard for community and environmental safety has been clear, Jessica Sims, Virginia Field Coordinator of Appalachian Voices said, as the group underscored concerns regarding potential hazards such as leaks, explosions, and landslides along the pipeline route.

By allowing MVP to advance despite all these serious hazards, the system meant to protect our communities, land and water has failed, Sims added.

In 2021, emissions from natural gas and petroleum systems, including abandoned oil and natural gas wells, accounted for about 33% of total methane emissions and approximately 4% of total greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. And while natural gas burns cleaner than coal or oil, its combustion still contributes 35% of U.S. energy-related CO2 emissions as of 2022.

Despite multiple inquiries from the News & Record regarding the concerns raised by different environmental groups, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission did not provide a response.
Novant Health Inc. said Tuesday it has ended its $320 million bid to purchase Lake Norman and Davis Regional medical centers, citing continued roadblocks from the Federal Trade Commission.

The decision comes after a three-judge panel of the federal Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals voted 2-1 Tuesday to implement the FTCs preliminary injunction request on the potential purchase. The request was filed June 9.

Novant signed an agreement in February 2023 to purchase the two hospitals from subsidiaries of for-profit Community Health Systems. Novant co-owned both hospitals for an 18-month period in the early 2000s.

Lake Norman, with 123 beds, provides emergency room, obstetrics, surgical services and outpatient tests and procedures for the Statesville market.

Davis Regional ceased operating as a full-service hospital in 2022. There have been plans to convert the facility into a behavioral health inpatient center.

After facing regulatory and legal challenges from the FTC, Novant appeared to have gained a significant legal victory on June 5 when federal judge Kenneth Bell of the Western District of N.C. allowed the not-for-profit system to proceed while the FTC conducted an antitrust review.

Novant said in a statement Tuesday that we have been met with opposition from the Federal Trade Commission at every step.

We are steadfast in our belief that these facilities and their patients would have greatly benefited from joining Novant Health, but with the FTCs continued roadblocks we do not see a way to finalize this transaction.

Novant said it will look for other ways to support patients and clinicians in these communities.

The FTC argued in its motion that it would be extraordinarily difficult to unscramble the egg if the proposed transaction is deemed unlawful after defendants have integrated their operations, shared competitively sensitive confidential information and laid off staff.

Novant said in a June 9 statement that the FTCs filing is a last-minute attempt, in a long line of attempts over the past year, to prevent this transaction from moving forward.

The communities served by Lake Norman and Davis Regional Medical Centers are relying on us to restore the vital healthcare services theyve lost  including neonatal intensive care and emergency services.

Appeal court order

The two judges who agreed to the preliminary injunction provided no reasoning to their decision.

The judge who opposed the injunction wrote that the Novant offer will revitalize the Davis hospital and enhance competition between Novant and Atrium.

The judge agreed with Novants assertion that the merger will be pro-competitive because it will enable Novant to better compete with Atrium as it inevitably expands its presence in the Lake Norman area.

The Davis hospital seems on its last legs and I worry that, as the district court found, its closure may be imminent. The district found that, without the transaction, Lake Norman Regionals future is decidedly uncertain as well.

Such closures would by definition lessen any competition.

The judge, citing a potential two-year process with the FTC appeal and administrative law judge process, said I am not sure any financially hard-pressed healthcare facility would have that amount of time.

The FTC is acting too aggressively in this case, forgetting there is such a thing as a vibrant private sector.

Background

In January, the FTC voted 3-0 to approve filing a complaint against Novant, saying the acquisitions have the potential to limit competition in that marketplace.

Novant owns and operates Huntersville Medical Center, a 151-bed facility 11 miles from Lake Norman Regional.

The FTC said that if the sale is permitted, Novant would control an eye-popping 64% of inpatient acute-care services market for the Lake Norman and northern Mecklenburg County area.

There is overwhelming evidence that Novants deal with Community Health Systems will be detrimental to patients in the eastern Lake Norman area, including leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for critical health care services, said Henry Liu, director of the FTCs Bureau of Competition.

On March 25, the FTC filed a partially redacted memorandum that claimed the proposed acquisitions would irreversibly consolidate the market for hospital services in the eastern Lake Norman area.

Among the supporters of the FTC review is state Treasurer Dale Folwell.

On Tuesday, Folwell said he applauded the FTCs efforts to do its job, protect consumers and stop this merger.

Now, its time for hospital executives, their boards of trustees, N.C. Attorney General Josh Stein and the N.C. General Assembly to do theirs.

These mergers arent Democrat or Republican; they are immoral.

Bell determined that with Atrium in the marketplace, particularly when it opens a 30-bed community hospital in Cornelius, that whatever current advantage Novant would gain from the two hospitals would be offset in some manner in the future.

Bell determined that while the Lake Norman hospital is not functioning at the lower level that Novant has described, the current owner has not provided the hospital with appropriate levels of resources and staffing and it is in a relatively insignificant competitive position.

Bell ruled that having Novant with two competitive hospitals near Atriums Cornelius hospital will provide more competitive balance than the current Novant on one side and Community Lake Norman facility on the other.
Laiq Lackenwall, a former medical technician and member of the Afghan Special Forces who fled his Taliban-controlled homeland in 2021 when the United States ended the war in Afghanistan, wore his native garb on Monday.

The white linen buttoned shirt with baggie pants was adorned with a burgundy vest and  just to add an American twist  a pair of black Nike high-tops.

It was second nature to him.

And so out of place in Lincoln, Nebraska.

If he were to be wearing jeans and a T-shirt, few would have noticed him, but in the clothes of his homeland, he is fully aware that he stood out.

And for someone just trying to fit in, there's something uncomfortable about it all.

"For Afghani people, it's hard here," Lackenwall said. "Whenever I go talk with somebody, they ask where I'm from. And I say I'm from Afghanistan. They are not interested with Afghani people, honestly."

It's all part of a transition to a new country. A new language. And a new culture.

And that's not taking into account that Lackenwall  with a wife and five children in Afghanistan  is incredibly homesick.

"We are also human," he says. "It's not my fault that I (was) born in Afghanistan. It was not my choice that I'm Afghan."

He's a 36-year-old man who can't go home. After helping America fight the Taliban, he was forced to flee for his life when the United States evacuated from Afghanistan.

Happiness is relative for Lackenwall. He's in Lincoln. Safe from what he calls the "terrorists" that now run his country.

He's providing for his family by working as a prison guard at the Nebraska State Penitentiary.

But being away from everyone and everything he loves  including his former occupation  is difficult.

So, is Lackenwall happy?

"That is a hard question, honestly," he said. "I'm glad and I'm happy, but life is not easy."

Still, he remains optimistic.

"The glass is full," he said. "We have been taught to not give up. Today was good. Tomorrow is going to be better.

"You need to not give up hope."

Perhaps Lackenwall's happiness equates to hope.

A hope that he will be reunited with his family sooner rather than later here in Lincoln. A hope that he will return to his chosen field in the medical industry.

And a hope that people from all countries and cultures will someday realize there is far more that binds us than pulls us apart.

"We should never give up," he said.

Lackenwall keeps moving forward because he knows no other way.

Most refugees concur. They're grateful to be alive  safe from the violence they escaped  but are battling language and cultural barriers that make their life in America incredibly challenging.

Lackenwall also has an advantage over most refugees: His English is way above average.

That matters when it comes to something as simple as ordering food from a menu. Tacos are one of his favorites, he says.

Thursday is World Refugee Day, which will honor the contributions made by refugees and bring awareness to the programs available to them.

In 2023, more than 114 million people worldwide were forcibly displaced from their homes due to persecution, conflict, violence and human rights violations.

Lincoln Literacy is partnering with Nebraskas International Council for Refugees and Immigrants to help refugees like Lackenwall by offering courses in everything from English to drivers education to computer classes to get them ready for a return to their former occupations.

This year, more than 2,000 refugees will take classes at Lincoln Literacy. That's more than double the number from 2021. The evacuation from Afghanistan and the war in Ukraine make up the bulk of that increase, said Bryan Seck, Lincoln Literacy's executive director.

"We're all about starting people in the place of their dreams, which will allow them to work themselves into the job of their dreams," Seck said. "Being a nurse in Afghanistan is very different from being a nurse here. The rules are very different."

Lackenwall spent 17 years in the Afghan Special Forces, worked in a prosthetics lab and earned medical certifications in Afghanistan and India. His goal is to earn similar certifications in America.

"I'm going to start my medical career again," he said. "I have started taking classes."

But the return to the medical field won't happen overnight, said Julie Grives, the associated director of Lincoln Literacy's adult skills programs.

Grives points to refugees who were engineers in their former countries coming to America and wanting the same job here.

"It's not going to happen for years, we very respectfully and gently explain," she said. "We tell them they're going to have to start in a position that they probably were in 20 years ago, but you can get up there with time."

Going back to Afghanistan is not an option, Seck said. The good news is that Lackenwall will be reunited with his family someday.

"I've seen people in the same kind of job that he had get their families here," Grives said. "It'll just take a little while, maybe a year or two."

Top Journal Star photos for June 2024
The 40-year-old Lincoln woman who was allegedly intoxicated when she was involved in a southeast Lincoln crash that left one man dead earlier this month was charged Thursday, according to the Lincoln Police Department.

Deeanna Deets was charged with motor vehicle homicide with prior conviction for DUI, DUI resulting in serious injury, DUI 5th offense, driving while revoked, and interlock violation.

On June 8, at about 3 p.m., police were sent to a multi-vehicle crash near South 84th Street and Glynoaks Drive. Deets, driving a Ford Taurus, crossed from the southbound lane across the median and collided with 49-year-old Lincoln man Amare Biftu's Honda HR-V, police say.

Biftu died from injuries sustained from the crash; his passenger, a 45-year-old Rhode Island man, had serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital along with Deets.

According to the probable cause affidavit, Biftu suffered blunt trauma to the head, chest, and abdomen. The passenger had fractures to his sternum, ribs, and collar bone that required surgery and titanium plates to reattach bones in his chest.

A passenger in Deets' Taurus suffered minor injuries, police say.

The crash caused the HR-V's engine block to come loose, launching it into the right lane and hitting a third vehicle.

The fourth car involved in the crash attempted to slow down but collided with Deets' Taurus.

Drivers from the third and fourth cars were not injured.

According to the crash report, Deets was not licensed at the time of the crash.

Deets, who was released from the hospital Wednesday after being treated for her injuries, was arrested.

Judge Laurie Yardley set her percentage bond at $2 million, meaning she would have to pay $200,000 to be released.

Deets is being held at the Lancaster County jail.

Top Journal Star photos for June 2024
A change in how community colleges are funded, as well as anticipated enrollment growth, will provide a boost to Southeast Community College's budget next year.

On Tuesday, SCC administrators told the Board of Governors the college was expecting 6.6% growth to its operating revenues for the 2024-25 year.

A preliminary budget shared with the board put SCC's total funding at more than $112.3 million for the fiscal year starting in July.

The increase will come as property owners across SCC's 15-county service area will see the amount paid to support the college plummet as part of a law (LB243) passed by the Legislature in 2023.

In an effort to reduce property tax burdens across the state, senators created the Community College Future Fund to replace local property taxes with state funding equal to a 7.5 cent per $100 of valuation levy.

Because SCC's general fund levy for 2023-24 was maintained at 7.37 cents  college leaders backed away from a plan to raise the levy to the maximum 9.25 cents allowed under the previous law  the college will see an automatic boost when the state moves its funding to the baseline set by lawmakers, said Amy Jorgens, SCC's chief financial officer.

SCC also expects to receive more in state dollars through an allowance created for enrollment growth in certain educational areas, Jorgens told the board.

The college reported a 9% enrollment increase for the spring semester, and Jorgens anticipates similar growth in the upcoming school year.

That could result in SCC receiving as much as $64.7 million from the Community College Future Fund this year, which is more than the $58.3 million it collected in property taxes for the 2023-24 year.

The new state funding is in addition to the $30.3 million it expects to receive through standard state appropriations.

SCC also expects to generate $16.3 million in tuition revenue next year.

Homeowners will still likely see a line item for SCC on their property tax statements in the coming year, however.

The college plans to keep the 2-cent levy for capital improvement projects as it continues an ambitious plan to remake its campuses in Lincoln, Beatrice and Milford, as well as expand into other communities in Southeast Nebraska.

While the college expects larger revenues than in previous years, SCC  like other higher education systems in Nebraska  is also projecting increased costs in the coming year.

Total expenditures for 2023-24 reached $103.7 million, according to a budget document shared with the Board of Governors.

The proposed expenses in the coming year would top $118 million, which include a pay increase for SCC employees, as well as health insurance premiums expected to be 20%-25% higher.

Jorgens said SCC is currently expecting a $5.7 million budget shortfall under the current projections, but added the college will close that gap before it brings a final budget to the board in August.

Most of the gap will be closed by putting off one-time expenses such as equipment purchases or hiring for vacant positions currently included in the budget, she said.

In other business:

* The board unanimously approved a five-year contract extension with President Paul Illich that will keep the colleges top administrator at SCC through June 30, 2029.

The new contract increases Illichs total compensation and benefits by 4.6%, including raising his base salary from $303,900 to $318,954.

Illich will also receive an annual retirement contribution of $28,706, which is equal to 9% of his salary, a $12,000 vehicle stipend, a $2,100 technology stipend, as well as standard SCC fringe benefits.

With the boards approval, Illich will become the second-highest compensated community college president in Nebraska, which also reflects SCCs size among the states six community colleges.

Dr. Illichs leadership has resulted in improvements that have been amazing and transformational, said board member Neal Stenberg. He deserves to be fairly compensated for his achievements.

Stenberg, who led the boards negotiations with Illich, said the total compensation in the new contract was less than we would need to hire an equally qualified successor.

* SCC also approved a series of construction projects for its Lincoln campus located at 8800 O St.

The first is a $149,382 replacement of part of the roof of the main building at the Lincoln campus awarded to Stonebrook Roofing of Lincoln.

The board also authorized $58,100 of work with Macintosh Concrete to add a temporary gravel parking lot on the northeast part of campus near Woodhaven Hall, the first residence hall for students at SCC-Lincoln.

The gravel will be recycled and used at a different area of the campus once a permanent parking lot is finished, SCC said.

Macintosh Concrete was also awarded a $68,450 bid to lay a sidewalk from Woodhaven Hall to the parking lot and O Street.

Finally, the board approved a $373,465 contract with Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest to complete a fiber optic loop on the Lincoln campus.

Top Journal Star photos for June 2024
Evening anchor Megan Conway is no longer with KLKN-TV after her contract was not renewed last month.

Conway had been the evening anchor for the Lincoln ABC affiliate for eight years.

My contract was expiring May 31st, Conway posted on social media Tuesday. During a meeting on that date, I was expecting to sign a new contract, but instead was told management decided to go in a different direction and were not offering a contract renewal.

"I was blindsided with this information, so thats why there was no goodbye on-air during the newscasts.

Conway, a native of Indianola, has been at KLKN since 2014, starting as an intern while studying broadcast journalism at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Hired as the morning editor, Conway moved into the roles of reporter, weekend meteorologist and morning anchor before she became evening anchor in 2016.

Top Journal Star photos for June 2024
An attempted robbery at an Interstate 80 rest area near Grand Island left a 72-year-old man dead and a 71-year-old woman critically injured in a knife attack on Wednesday, according to authorities.

The Hall County Sheriff's Department said in a news release that deputies were called to the westbound rest area at mile marker 316 just after 7 a.m., where they found Gary and Mary Weaver of Missouri with stab wounds.

The couple were transported to Grand Island Regional Hospital, where Gary Weaver died and Mary Weaver remains in critical condition with life-threatening wounds, according to the Sheriff's Office. Both are from Eureka, Missouri.

The suspect fled the rest area in a vehicle before authorities arrived, but a Nebraska State Patrol trooper saw a vehicle matching that description near Wood River and attempted to stop it. A short chase ensued reaching speeds of 120 miles per hour before the vehicle exited the interstate and turned south and drove into the Platte River. The suspect, 22-year-old James Thompson Jr. of Elyria, Ohio, fled on foot, but troopers using a K-9 unit were able to locate and arrest him after about 30 minutes.

The Sheriff's Department said a preliminary investigation shows Thompson stabbed them after attempting to rob them.

Top Journal Star photos for June 2024
A North Platte man has been sentenced to fines totaling $20,000 along with forfeiture of more than $63,000 for filing fraudulent Nebraska income tax returns.

Mark Haneborg, 56, was sentenced to pay four $5,000 fines Monday in Lincoln County District Court. He will also have to forfeit $63,249, held by the state of Nebraska as evidence, to the Nebraska Department of Revenue. That money will be divided between the state and the Internal Revenue Service.

In April, he pleaded no contest to four felony counts of filing fraudulent Nebraska income tax returns. As part of the plea deal, two felony counts of income tax evasion were dropped.

In addition, the case against his wife, Bridget Haneborg, was dismissed upon Marks sentencing.

The Haneborgs attorney, Aaron Bishop, said to their credit, the Haneborgs hired a forensic accountant to amend their 2019, 2020 and 2021 taxes to file more accurate tax returns. Mark also filed his 2022 tax return and mailed it in.

To keep in accordance with the plea agreement, Mark Haneborg paid the fines immediately after the sentencing and Bridgets case was dismissed.

According to court records, initial information about the Haneborgs suspected tax avoidance followed reports from a former employee at NP Skills alleging the business wasnt fully reporting employee wages or personal income on state and federal taxes.

A subsequent robbery at the Platte River Skill Casino in summer 2020 led investigators to further look into the Haneborgs business practices.

A Department of Revenue investigation that followed revealed that in 2020 the Haneborgs filed a joint tax return reporting $33,856 in gross business income despite a potential income of $1.2 million.

Investigators obtained a warrant for the Haneborgs home in July 2022. They turned up financial records and more than $75,000 in cash. A contractor at the house at the time admitted being paid $80,000 in cash to construct a swimming pool.

Top Journal Star photos for June 2024
An Omaha firefighter was injured early Tuesday when a front porch roof collapsed during a house fire in North Omaha.

A spokesman for the Omaha Fire Department said the firefighter is expected to recover. Their name was not released.

As of Tuesday afternoon, an OFD spokesman said the firefighter was treated and released "and is doing well."

Firefighters were called to 2520 N. 25th St. just before 1 a.m. for a fire in a vacant house. Crews found smoke and flames coming from the front of the house upon arrival.

The fire was declared under control at 1:15 a.m. The house, valued at $60,800, was a total loss, the spokesman said. An estimated $25,000 in contents were damaged.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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.

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You are here: Arts

"The Three-Body Problem," a sci-fi magnum opus by Liu Cixin, will enjoy "limitless" investment in its movie adaptation project, its production company said Tuesday.

Science fiction author Liu Cixin answers questions from readers in Beijing, capital of China, Aug. 29, 2015. (Xinhua/Li Yibo)

The widely-anticipated film adaptation will be loyal to the original story while placing no upper limit on investment, Wang Changtian, chairman of Beijing Enlight Media Co., Ltd., said at a forum during the 26th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF).

It was previously announced during the SIFF that acclaimed Chinese director Zhang Yimou will lead the film adaptation of "The Three-Body Problem," considered a milestone in Chinese sci-fi literature.

Wang said the company had discussed the project with Zhang for many years before he finally agreed to join.

Zhao Jilong, CEO of the copyright holder Three-Body Universe Cultural Development Co., Ltd., expressed hope that the project could eventually produce a movie series.

The film adaptation will be jointly developed by Beijing Enlight Media and Three-Body Universe, which manages the copyright of "The Three-Body Problem," except for the original book publication.

Hugo Award winner Liu Cixin's sci-fi trilogy "The Three-Body Problem" has been translated into more than 30 languages. It was previously adapted into animation, television and radio dramas.

Zhang, who is now in his 70s, has won dozens of awards around the world. His directorial works include "Red Sorghum," "Hero" and "The Great Wall."
The next free community meal will be held June 24 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 504 S. Main St., Viroqua. Serving will be from 5 until 6:30 p.m.

The Viroqua United Methodist Church will be preparing and serving the meal which will consist of open faced sandwiches, macaroni salad, baked beans and brownie delight dessert.

Invite your family, friends and neighbors and come to the meal. Enjoy the food and conversations. All are welcome.
A 19-year-old kayaker from Sarona who went missing Friday has been found safe.

Gunnur Hess disappeared after setting out for a kayak trip in northwestern Wisconsin on Friday. Authorities had been looking for Hess since.

The teen told his family June 14 he was going kayaking and would call them when he was ready to be picked up. He was not heard from after that.

According to the Washburn County Sheriffs Office, authorities spent the weekend combing the Namekagon River. Gunnurs truck was located at the County K landing over the weekend and returned to family members.

On Tuesday afternoon, Washburn County Sheriffs Office reported that Hess has been located safe by WI DNR Wardens in St Croix Falls.

Washburn County Sheriffs Office offered its thanks to everyone who assisted and for tips, which authorities described as helpful.
This aerial photo taken on Sept. 10, 2023 shows a view of Zhangjiang area of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]

China's fast-growing tech-intensive green industries, lucrative market potential and high-level openness to international engagement will boost confidence among multinational corporations, said foreign business leaders.



Highlighting China's strong attraction for global companies due to emerging opportunities in sectors such as electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing and trade in services, they said that technological decoupling presents a significant risk to global economic recovery.

Driven by these prospects, foreign companies are intensifying their investments, broadening their business scope, and devising medium- to long-term strategies for consistent growth, optimistic about China's prospects for high-quality economic advancement in the coming years.

Riding a boom in China's automotive sector, Japanese tire manufacturer Bridgestone Corp said earlier this month that it will invest 562 million yuan ($77.47 million) in the country over the next three years. The investment will focus on constructing production bases and enhancing output of high-performance passenger car tires.

"To achieve the goals of enhancing profitability, our strategic resources will be primarily directed toward the high-end passenger car tire market in China. This area has greater potential for growth," said Agustin Pedroni, president and CEO of Bridgestone (China) Investment Co Ltd.

The Japanese company plans to invest $26 million in its tire factory in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, this year, to expand high-end passenger car tire production capacity.

To adapt to the changing demands of the Chinese tire market and accelerate product localization, Bridgestone's Wuxi plant has increased production of high-rim diameter tires to 21 inches to replace imports.

Bridgestone's investments appear justified. A total of 8.07 million passenger cars were sold via retail channels in China in the first five months of 2024, an increase of 5.7 percent year-on-year, data from the China Passenger Car Association showed.

Meanwhile, US logistics provider FedEx will continue to invest in network development, digital-related services and key regions in China this year, said Robert Chu, vice-president for operations at FedEx China.

As one of the most dynamic and promising bay areas in China, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area has attracted businesses of all sizes, said Chu, adding that the company recently upgraded its gateway facility in Shenzhen, Guangdong province.

"With the newly renovated and expanded import warehouse, our import operations and Customs clearance have become more efficient," he added.

In a survey of more than 600 foreign-funded companies, over 70 percent said they are optimistic about the development prospects of the Chinese market over the next five years, and more than 50 percent believe the Chinese market has become more attractive.

The Beijing-based China Council for the Promotion of International Trade released the study results earlier this year.

The trade value of foreign-invested companies amounted to 5.09 trillion yuan between January and May, declining 0.1 percent year-on-year, accounting for 29.1 percent of China's total foreign trade value, statistics from the General Administration of Customs showed.

Eager to attract more foreign investment, China has taken a series of measures to facilitate foreign investment this year, including rolling out national and pilot free trade zone versions of negative lists for cross-border trade in services, and simplifying visa application procedures for foreigners.

Upbeat about the Chinese market, Rui Coelho, CEO of the China unit at Air Liquide SA, a French industrial and medical gases provider, said the nation's comprehensive and reliable industrial chains play an indispensable role in stabilizing the global supply chain.

"The country's economic development model and market environment are continually evolving, offering opportunities and valuable experiences for our business expansion and enhancement," said Coelho.

Apart from operating more than 120 plants across China, the French company will set up a large-scale hydrogen filling center in Shanghai in the second half. It will also accelerate the deployment of hydrogen energy in Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta region.
A woman promotes products via livestreaming at the Silk Road E-commerce Pavilion during the second Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Nov. 24, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

This year marks the 30th anniversary of China achieving full functional access to the internet. Since 1994, the country has made significant progress in promoting law-based governance in cyberspace.

To date, China has promulgated over 150 pieces of legislation in the field of cyberspace governance, Wang Song, deputy director of the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), told a press conference on Tuesday.

To facilitate digital economic development, China has formulated and implemented basic laws for the field, including the E-Commerce Law. Efforts have also been made to expedite legislation on specific areas such as livestreaming, online payments and online recruitment.

As of December 2023, China had over 1.09 billion internet users, statistics from the China Internet Network Information Center showed.

In May 2024, a set of interim regulations on countering unfair competition in cyberspace was promulgated, noted Peng Xinmin, an official of the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR).

China has devised regulations to protect the legitimate rights and interests of minors in cyberspace, including regulations on the protection of the personal information of children online, according to CAC official Li Changxi.

In the area of law enforcement, the CAC has focused on tackling improper or illegal online behaviors, including the spread of false information and algorithm abuse. Over 40 special operations have been launched over the past years, resulting in the removal of over 20 billion pieces of illegal information, Li said.

Efforts have also been made to push online platforms to fulfill their primary responsibilities and establish sound complaint and reporting mechanisms, thereby protecting the legitimate rights and interests of their users.

China's market regulation authorities have strengthened their supervision of online advertising, investigating and handling a total of 22,500 cases of false or illegal online advertising in 2023.

The SAMR has also established an online mechanism for the resolution of consumer disputes. The national 12315 consumer dispute resolution platform has directly resolved 5.835 million consumer disputes to date, according to Peng.

Zhou Jiahai, director of the Research Office of the Supreme People's Court, said that Chinese courts at various levels have made efforts to strengthen the judicial protection of intellectual property rights to promote the application of scientific and technological innovations.

Through their handling of new case types involving such issues as data-driven price discrimination, these courts have clarified the adjudication rules for new internet-related areas of the law.

Courts at all levels have been exploring and promoting the integration of judicial work and new technologies, including artificial intelligence and blockchain.

Digital courts are also being built to improve the efficiency and quality of judicial work. In 2023, more than 45 million cases were accepted by courts nationwide, with 30 percent of those cases filed online and more than half of all related legal documents served online, Zhou said.
The Soviets have opened a new phase in space exploration with the launch of the worlds biggest space station, Mir.

The successful launch of Mir comes just over three weeks after the American space shuttle Challenger disaster, in which seven astronauts died.

At next weeks Communist Party congress in Moscow the Mir project is likely to be hailed as proof that the Soviets are leading the peaceful exploration of space.

Mir, which means both peace and world in Russian, is intended to provide a base for a permanently manned complex orbiting the Earth.

Too costly

It succeeds the Soviet Salyut models, the last of which, Salyut 7, was launched in April 1982 and is still in orbit.

The Americans also had a space station, Skylab, which suffered damage on its initial launch and eventually proved too costly to maintain and fell back to Earth in 1979.

Soviet officials say their new craft represents the transition from research to large-scale production activities in space.

The station has six docking stations, which means other modules or laboratories can be added to it, expanding its size and capability.

Remain in orbit

The deputy head of the Soviet cosmonaut training centre, Alexei Leonov, said it would only be possible to determine how long Mir would remain in orbit after it had completed its first flight.

He said the cosmonauts, now taking part in a special training programme, would have separate cabins with windows and even individual desks and armchairs.

Mr Leonov explained that Salyut 7 was too small for the plans now being implemented by Soviet experts.

It has only two docking stations and can support a crew of only three, whereas Mir can carry between six and ten people.

The main work of the first cosmonauts on board Mir will be to continue with the experiments in materials processing, begun on Salyut 6 and 7.

Other activities will include observation of the Earth using high-powered cameras, as well as helping locate mineral deposits on Earth and monitor the seas for trawlers.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

The first crew arrived on board Mir on 15 March 1986 and it remained more or less continuously occupied until November 2000. Crew member Valeri Polyakov stayed up a record 439 days.

The end of the Cold War marked a new era of space co-operation.

In September 1993 US Vice-President Al Gore and Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin announced plans for a new space station, which would later be called the International Space Station, or ISS.

In preparation for this new project, the US became more closely involved with Mir.

From March 1995 seven US astronauts consecutively spent 28 months on Mir. Mounting costs contributed to the decision to bring down Mir.

It re-entered the Earths atmosphere near Nadi, Fiji, and what remained of the 135-tonne craft fell into the South Pacific Ocean.
Russian President Vladimir Putin thanked North Korea for supporting his actions in Ukraine and said their countries will cooperate closely to overcome U.S.-led sanctions as he headed to Pyongyang yesterday for a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Putins comments appeared in an op-ed piece in North Korean state media hours before his expected arrival for a two-day visit as the countries deepen their alignment in the face of separate, intensifying confrontations with Washington.

In the North Korean capital of Pyongyang, the streets were decorated with Putins portraits and Russian flags. A banner hung on a building said: We warmly welcome the President of the Russian Federation.

Putin, who will be making his first trip to North Korea in 24 years, said he highly appreciates its firm support of his military action in Ukraine. He said the countries would continue to resolutely oppose what he described as Western ambitions to hinder the establishment of a multipolar world order based on justice, mutual respect for sovereignty, considering each others interests. Putin also said Russia and North Korea will develop trade and payment systems that are not controlled by the West and jointly oppose sanctions against the countries, which he described as illegal, unilateral restrictions.

North Korea is under heavy U.N. Security Council economic sanctions over its nuclear weapons and missile programs, while Russia is also grappling with sanctions by the United States and its Western partners over its aggression in Ukraine.

Putin said the countries will also expand cooperation in tourism, culture and education.

Before heading to North Korea, Putin traveled to Yakutsk, a city in eastern Russia, where he reportedly planned to meet regional Gov. Aisen Nikolayev, and receive briefings on the areas technology and defense-related projects.

Putins visit comes amid growing concerns about an arms arrangement in which Pyongyang provides Moscow with badly needed munitions to fuel Russias war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that would enhance the threat posed by Kims nuclear weapons and missile program.

U.S. and South Korean officials say military, economic and other exchanges between North Korea and Russia have sharply increased since Kim met Putin in September in the Russian Far East, their first since 2019.

U.S. and South Korean officials accuse the North of providing Russia with artillery, missiles and other military equipment for use in Ukraine, possibly in return for key military technologies and aid. Both Pyongyang and Moscow deny accusations about North Korean weapons transfers, which would violate multiple U.N. Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

Along with China, Russia has provided political cover for Kims continuing efforts to advance his nuclear arsenal, repeatedly blocking U.S.-led efforts to impose fresh U.N. sanctions on the North over its weapons tests.

In March, a Russian veto at the United Nations ended monitoring of U.N. sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear program, prompting Western accusations that Moscow is seeking to avoid scrutiny as it buys weapons from Pyongyang for use in Ukraine. U.S. and South Korean officials have said they are discussing options for a new mechanism for monitoring the North.

Earlier this year, Putin sent Kim a high-end Aurus Senat limousine, which he had shown to the North Korean leader when they met in September. Observers said the shipment violated a U.N. resolution banning the supply of luxury items to North Korea.

John Kirby, spokesperson of the U.S. National Security Council, said the deepening relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang is concerning, not just because of the impacts its going to have on the Ukrainian people, because we know North Korean ballistic missiles are still being used to hit Ukrainian targets, but because there could be some reciprocity here that could affect security on the Korean Peninsula.

We havent seen the parameters of all of that right now, certainly havent seen it come to fruition. But were certainly going to be watching that very, very closely, he said.

Lim Soosuk, spokesperson of South Koreas Foreign Ministry, said Seoul has been stressing to Moscow that any cooperation between Russia and North Korea must not proceed in a direction that violates U.N. Security Council resolutions or undermines peace and stability in the region.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsulas are at their highest point in years, with the pace of both Kims weapons tests and combined military exercises involving the United States, South Korea and Japan intensifying in a tit-for-tat cycle. The Koreas also have engaged in Cold War-style psychological warfare that involved North Korea dropping tons of trash on the South with balloons, and the South broadcasting anti-North Korean propaganda with its loudspeakers.

South Koreas military said soldiers fired warning shots to repel North Korean soldiers who temporarily crossed the land border yesterday for the second time this month. The Souths military said North Korean has been increasing construction activity in front-line border areas, such as installing suspected anti-tank barriers, reinforcing roads and planting land mines. KIM TONG-HYUNG, SEOUL, MDT/AP
The Beauty of Perfect White  Masterpieces of Blanc de Chine Porcelain from Dehua Exhibition opened yesterday at Artyzen Grand Lapa, showcasing the rich history and artistry of Dehuas renowned white porcelain. The event, hosted by the Dehua County Peoples Government, marks the 25th anniversary of Macaus return to China and highlights the cultural ties between the two regions.

Hong Yangxing, the Deputy County Mayor of Dehua County Peoples Government, expressed his delight in being in Macau for the occasion.

I am very happy to be here in beautiful Macau to inaugurate the 100th anniversary of the Chinese National Gallery, he said. Dehuas white porcelain is famous all over the world because of its color, and its carving skills are also outstanding.

Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, the director of the Macau Government Tourism Office, echoed the sentiment, noting Macaus longstanding relationship with Dehua.

Dehua is a thousand-year-old ancient county. It is a world-famous porcelain system. For thousands of years, our Dehuas porcelain has been passed down through our Sea Stone Road, she said.

The exhibition features a diverse range of Dehua porcelain, including pottery sculptures, export craft porcelain, and daily pottery porcelain. Porcelain artist Li Zhang Gao, who has works on display, remarked on the exhibitions ability to integrate Macaus culture with his own.

We want to know more about the local culture, and how it interacts with other cultures, he said.

For the organizers, the event not only showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of Dehuas porcelain but also serves as a platform for fostering closer ties between the two regions.

Rutger Verschuren, Area vice president of Macau Operations for Artyzen Hospitality Group, remarked, We just launched the exhibition at our Amagao Art Gallery last week, featuring Portuguese ceramics, and as we opened today the delicate porcelain artwork exhibit from Dehua, Fujian, we bring this form of art to the highest level.

Hundreds of years ago, the porcelain from Dehua was shipped to Europe via Macau, hence the name Blanc de Chine. For the executive, This is another historical proof that Macau is a genuine bridge between the East and West cultures.

Questioned by the Times on whether the exhibition can enhance the local art scene, Verschuren said that the exhibit of exquisite art pieces will surely promote Macau as a hub for arts and culture.

We all note that integrated resorts put a lot of effort into non-gaming elements, which is admirable. However, the Dehua exhibition shows that not only integrated resorts can create art exhibitions, but also non-gaming venues in the peninsula where Macaus historical art hubs are located, such as Artyzen Grand Lapa, are very much able to do so too with a lot of passion and effort, he added. Staff Reporter
This summer, MGM will welcome two figures in the music industry  Love Song Master Eric Moo and Pop Diva Ella Chen  to the MGM Theater on July 20, 2024.

This is their inaugural joint performance on the stage.

Eric Moo, a celebrated figure in the Chinese music industry, made history as the first Asian artist to be honored with the Excellent Artistic Music Award by the American Billboard. His repertoire of beloved classics, including Too Silly, Shouldnt Keep You Waiting for Too Long, I Cant Feel You, and Heart Breaking Love Song, has encapsulated many of our youthful memories.

Ella Chen initially known as a member of Girl Band S.H.E, rose to fame across Asia with her humorous and straightforward personality, along with her warm and magnetic voice. Since embarking on her solo career, Ella has achieved great success in various fields such as performing arts, hosting, and singing.
You are here: China

Following a U.S. clue on drugs and money laundering, Chinese police have launched an investigation into a case involving illegal foreign exchange transactions, China's Ministry of Public Security said Wednesday.

The investigation has found that, since 2017, the suspect surnamed Tong started a car dealership in the United States and offered exchange services between Chinese yuan and U.S. dollars. The operation later evolved into criminal activities including the illegal trading of foreign exchange.

Tong has already been arrested, and further investigations are underway, said the ministry.

The ministry noted that the case is a prime example of recent China-U.S. anti-drug cooperation.
Lawmaker Lo Choi urged the government to implement extensive measures to support citizens and ease the burden on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in a plenary session yesterday at the Legislative Assembly. This comes amid the latest announcement from the government that it will extend the loan repayment of local SMEs and youth entrepreneurs amid uneven recovery of the market. Lo has also called to utilize land reserves, explore new economic sectors, and attract more foreign investments.

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Chinese Premier Li Qiang has ended his Australian tour yesterday in the west coast city of Perth where he has focused on Chinas investment in critical minerals, clean energy and business links.

Perth is the capital of Western Australia state, which provided 39% of the worlds iron ore last year. Iron ore is one of Australias most lucrative exports. Analysts say the commodity was spared the type of trade bans Beijing imposed on other Australian exports as bilateral relations soured three years ago because the steel-making ingredient was crucial to Chinese industrial growth.

Li last week became the first Chinese premier to visit New Zealand then Australia in seven years. He left Perth late yesterday for Malaysia, where hell be Chinas first premier to visit since 2015.

While in Perth, Chinas second-most powerful leader after President Xi Jinping inspected iron ore miner Fortescues clean energy research facility.

Fortescues chairman Andrew Forrest said Li was interested in the companys plans to produce iron ore without carbon emissions and potentially green iron.

I think China chose us because its not just the best technology to go green in Australia, its the best technology to go green in the world and weve got real examples of it in trains, ship engines, trucks, Forrest told The Associated Press before the visit.

The Perth facility is testing technology on hydrogen, ammonia and batter power for trains, ships, trucks and heavy mining equipment.

Li also visited Chinese-controlled Tianqi Lithium Energy Australias processing plant south of Perth to underscore Chinas interest in investing in critical minerals. The plant produces battery-grade lithium hydroxide for electric vehicles.

Australia shares U.S. concerns over Chinas global dominance in critical minerals and control over supply chains in the renewable energy sector.

Citing Australias national interests, Treasurer Jim Chalmers recently ordered five Chinese-linked companies to divest their shares in the rare earth mining company Northern Minerals.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote in an opinion piece published in Perths main newspaper, The West Australian, yesterday that his government was acting to ensure foreign investment continues to serve our national interests.

This includes reforming the foreign investment framework so that its more efficient, more transparent and more effective at managing risk, Albanese wrote.

Forrest said the national risk from Chinese investment in the critical minerals sector was overstated.

Australia should be producing all the critical minerals in the world because were a great mining country, so by all means lets go in harder after critical minerals, but lets not do it with panic because there is no reason for panic, Forrest said.

Qiang and Albanese flew to Perth in separate planes late Monday from the national capital Canberra where the two leaders held an official annual meeting with senior ministers in Parliament House.

Both leaders attended a round table of business leaders in Perth representing resource companies including mining giants BHP and Rio Tinto.

Business Council of Australia chief executive Bran Black said business dialogue was essential to the bilateral relations between the two free trading partners.

While there have been challenging times in the bilateral relationship between the two nations, I think its fair to say this is another positive point of progress, Black told the meeting.

It shows that whilst the parameters of a bilateral relationship are set by governments, they will always be sustained by the quality of the personal relationships and especially those personal relationships that subsist on a business-to-business level, Black added.

Chinese premiers and Australian prime ministers met annually from 2013 until 2019, after which Beijing banned minister-to-minister contacts over the previous conservative governments call for an independent investigation into the causes of and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Relations had already been strained by Australian legislation that banned covert foreign interference in Australian politics and the exclusion of Chinese-owned telecommunications giant Huawei from rolling out the national 5G network due to security concerns.

Beijing initiated a reset in relations after Albaneses center-left Labor Party was elected in 2022.

The annual meetings resumed when Albanese visited Beijing in November last year.

Albanese revealed that his office had complained to the Chinese Embassy about the behavior of two officials during a media event with the two leaders after Mondays meeting.

Australia had concerns about two Chinese officials who stood in the way of cameras taking images of well-known Australian journalist Cheng Lei sitting with other reporters as the leaders spoke, Albanese said.

Cheng spent more than three years in detention in China for breaking an embargo with a broadcast on a state-run TV network while she was based in Beijing. She was released last year after interventions by the Australian government and now works for Sky News Australia. ROD McGUIRK, MELBOURNE, MDT/AP
Brandon Payton, 30, was finally ready to take his GED test, an online exam he hoped would open the door to a union plumbing job and make up for the 12 years since he dropped out of high school.

But long before he enrolled at the Omega School, a seven-week program that helps high school dropouts secure a GED, he had been banned from Madison Area Technical College, where Omegas GED tests are administered  and where he had once stolen nearly $2,000 from someone, earning him a misdemeanor theft conviction.

Four years later, school administrators initially wouldnt let him back on the campus to take the test, he said.

It was one of the longest months of my life, Payton said. Knowing that you could do it, and it should be done, but something in your past that youve already been punished for once is still holding you back ... it kind of hurt.

The school eventually relented and allowed Payton to take the GED test in May. Hes now set to be one of 25 Omega School graduates who will walk the stage at MATCs Goodman South campus on Thursday.

For 52 years, Omega, an independent educational program, has helped students of all ages secure GEDs or HSEDs, replacement diplomas for those who for some reason never finished high school.

For many of this years graduates like Payton, a GED is a gateway to a new life, said Omega School Executive Director Oscar Mireles.

Omega is giving people a second chance, Mireles told the Wisconsin State Journal last year. When youre 16 or 17, sometimes you make decisions that you dont think are going to impact your life as much as it does. Having a high school credential really does make a difference.

Students drop out of high school for a variety of reasons, Mireles said. Sometimes its within in their control, and sometimes its not. Omega is there to provide them with the support necessary to make up that lost time.

For many GED students, without the additional support of friends and family, this goal of a high school credential would not have been possible, Mireles said.

Troubled past

Payton dropped out of high school in the 11th grade after credits from a school in his Mississippi hometown didnt transfer. He knew what that would mean, he said, but he felt like he had no choice.

I was always kind of smart enough to see the bigger picture, he said.

Soon after he dropped out, he was kicked out of the house by his mother and was homeless for a few months, crashing on friends couches and working odd jobs around Madison.

Hes been arrested, he said, more times than he can remember. Sometimes it was for selling drugs, other times it was for theft.

The sad part about it actually is that over time I got used to it, he said. Going to jail, to this day, it doesnt bother me as much as it should anymore.

New beginning

But through a recommendation from the Urban League of Greater Madison, Payton found the Omega program.

Payton said his goal isnt to just make more money. He wants to set up his five children with the opportunity to take a different path than he did, whether that means college or not.

And he credits Omega for the opportunity to do so.

I dont want my kids growing up in an environment like I had, he said. But your circumstances dont define you, and Im a real living testimony.

Pandemic impacts

Like Payton, Jalen Baumbach dropped out of high school in 11th grade. But unlike Payton, the 18-year-old didnt hesitate to enroll in Omega as soon as possible.

The COVID-19 pandemic had deprived him of a traditional school experience in his eighth and ninth grades, he said. For two years, he attended an online-only school.

I went back in my sophomore year, and that just didnt go very well. I was just skipping my classes, I didnt have the best grades, he said. It just didnt quite work for me. I felt like I needed more one-on-one help than the average person.

Struggling to readapt to in-person classes, Baumbach eventually dropped out of high school and enrolled in Operation Fresh Start, a nontraditional program that helps students earn their high school diploma.

I didnt get the whole high school experience, he said. I didnt get to do all these things or go to these school dances or have this huge graduation.

Flipping a switch

Baumbach doesnt just blame COVID on his dropping out, though. Prior to and during high school, he said he had trouble respecting any kind of authority or appreciating structure.

I hated being told what to do, he said. It felt like disrespect to me.

Through Operation Fresh Start, he was referred to Omega and set up a meeting with Mireles.

So, I went in, and he was like, We need you to actually show up. And you got to put in the work, he said. I realized it was time for me to stop messing around. It was like flipping a switch.

Baumbach said he hopes to use his GED to start an apprenticeship as a car mechanic, a passion hes had since he began modifying his own car as a 14-year-old.

Its time for me to step up and do this and get it done, he said.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct the date of the graduation ceremony. It is happening on Thursday, June 20.
Luxury beauty brand Cle de Peau Beaute and UNICEF have wrapped up a successful first year of their partnership, impacting over 3 million girls globally. Theyre on track to help even more girls by 2025 through their Skills4Girls programs.

These programs focus on teaching girls important skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This is crucial because many girls miss out on education and job opportunities compared to boys.

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Carla Haddad Mardini from UNICEF said, Most jobs today need digital skills, but girls often dont get the same chances as boys. Were happy to see progress in closing this gap with Cle de Peau Beaute.

UNICEF and Cle de Peau Beaute are focused on helping girls through the Skills4Girls programs

Since starting in 2019 and continuing in 2023, their goal is to reach 5.7 million girls in countries like Bangladesh, China, and Indonesia. In Bangladesh, theyre improving school programs to help more girls learn skills theyll need for the future.

Mizuki Hashimoto from Cle de Peau Beaute visited Bangladesh and saw the impact: Seeing how education changes girls lives in Bangladesh was inspiring. Were committed to making a difference through education.

Their efforts have already changed lives, like one girl in Bangladesh who now trains others after learning computer skills through Skills4Girls.

Cle de Peau Beaute has also donated $17.4 million to UNICEFs Gender Equality Program. This money comes from their special campaign where a part of their product sales goes to UNICEF.

As Cle de Peau Beaute and UNICEF continue working together, theyre helping more girls get the skills they need for a better future.
A Kazkah opposition figure and prominent blogger with more than a million subscribers on YouTube was seriously wounded Tuesday after he was shot in an attempted killing in Kyiv.

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Aydos Sadykov, who was granted asylum in Ukraine in 2014, was attacked near his home.

His wife Natalia Sadykova wrote on social media: Today in Kyiv, near his own house, an assassination attempt was made on Aydos Sadykovs life.

Sadykov and his wife run a well known opposition social media channel in Kazakhstan, heavily critical of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

He has been wanted in Kazakhstan since last year.

Kyiv said it launched an investigation, adding: According to preliminary information, an unknown person with a gun ran up to the car where the victim and his wife were, shot the man, and then fled.

The man is currently in hospital in bad condition. Law enforcement is taking measures to identify the attacker, it added.

Sadykova later said that her husband had been operated on but that he was in a serious condition, calling for prayers for h

She accused President Tokayev of ordering the assassination.
The 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling is final and legally binding that warrants compliance on all concerned parties under the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of Japan.

The Japanese government issued the statement late Tuesday evening in response to the recent Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea, which overlaps with the South China Sea. It described the development as a legitimate concern tied to the peace and stability in the region.

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Japan reiterates serious concern over repeated actions, which obstruct freedom of navigation and increase regional tensions, including recent dangerous actions that resulted in damage to the Filipino vessel and injuries to Filipinos onboard, the MOFA stated.

Japan has consistently advocated upholding the rule of law at sea, and will continue to cooperate with the international community such as ASEAN Member States and the United States to protect the free and open international order based on the rule of law, it added.

The Japanese government has maintained its opposition to the unlawful maritime claims of China and strongly condemned its coercive use of Coast Guard and maritime militia vessels, as declared in the Joint Vision Statement of the leaders of Japan, the Philippines, and the United States last April.

Japan opposes any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force as well as any actions that increase tensions in the South China Sea, the ministry said.

Japan raised the validity of the PCA ruling in defense of the Philippines, which has consistently complied with the arbitral award to maintain peace and order in the regional waters, contradicting Beijings claims that Manila is the one instigating the maritime conflict.

The arbitral award is final and legally binding on the parties to the dispute and Japan strongly hopes that the parties compliance with the award will lead to the peaceful settlement of disputes in the South China Sea, the MOFA said.
President Marcos has declared July 17 to 23 of every year as the National Disability Rights Week in fulfillment of the Philippine governments commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

According to the two-page Proclamation No. 597 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), was instructed to lead, coordinate and supervise the National Disability Rights Week.

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The NCDA is also tasked to identify the programs, activities and projects for the celebration.

All government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, state universities and colleges are directed to observe the celebration. Local government units, non-government organizations, and private sectors are encouraged to observe the same.

President Marcos said the Philippines is committed to supporting the UNCRPD in its goals to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all

persons with disabilities, and to encourage respect for their inherent dignity.

In signing the law, President Marcos highlighted the need to amend Proclamations No. 1870 and 361 to be consistent with the purpose of the UNCPRD and to promote a rights-based approach on the National Disability Rights Week.

Proclamation No. 1870 (s. 1979) declared the third week of July as the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week while Proclamation No. 361 (s. 2000) declared July 23 as the culmination of the NDPR Week, commemorating the birth of the Sublime Paralytic, Apolinario Mabini.

President Marcos said Proclamation Nos. 1870 (s. 1979) and 361 (s. 2000) are repealed along with all other issuances, orders, rules and regulations inconsistent with Proclamation No. 597.
Senate President Pro Tempore and Defense Committee chairperson Jinggoy Estrada said on Wednesday he was deeply outraged and extremely troubled by the latest hostile actions of the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) near Ayungin Shoal.

This is an unacceptable act of aggression, a direct affront to our sovereignty, and a blatant violation of our rights under international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), said Estrada, reacting to the fresh hostilities that emerged in the area this week.

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Estrada said the Philippines has consistently sought peaceful and diplomatic means to resolve maritime disputes, adhering to mutual respect and cooperation principles.

Yet the CCG demonstrated a complete disregard for these principles and has engaged in provocative actions to escalate tensions in our territorial waters further. 

The senator demanded that China cease these provocative actions immediately and respect the Philippines sovereign rights, covering the 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone in the territorial waters.

Estrada warned that our government will take all necessary measures to protect our people and uphold our national interests.

I urge the international community to come together in denouncing this imprudent behavior and to lend their support to our plea for justice and accountability, he said.

Senator Nancy Binay also called on the CCG to exercise restraint and urged them to be good friends and neighbors with the Philippines as our country is to them.

If China indeed values our friendship, we want them to understand that we dont hurt our friends. We are never the aggressors, she further stated.
Chinese, British scientists retrieve lost wheat genetic diversity, empowering modern breeding

Xinhua) 09:13, June 19, 2024

BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) -- A collaborative study led by scientists from China and Britain revealed that at least 60 percent of the genetic diversity found in a historic collection of wheat is unused, providing an unprecedented opportunity to improve modern wheat and achieve food security.

The study, jointly conducted by a research team from the Agricultural Genomics Institute in Shenzhen under the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and the John Innes Centre in Britain, as well as other research organizations, was published in the latest issue of the academic journal Nature.

Wheat is one of the most important global food crops for humans. Faced with a series of challenges such as the continuous growth of global population, complex climate change and the gradual slowing down of the cultivation of new wheat varieties, scientists urgently need to find efficient and precise methods for wheat breeding to cultivate high-yield and high-quality new varieties, said Cheng Shifeng, the Chinese leading scientist in the study.

Cheng's team introduced from Britain a historic collection of wheat gathered in the 1920s and 1930s from 32 countries, which are no longer grown anywhere in the world. Experiments have been carried out across China, along with a comparative analysis of the nearly century-old wheat with modern wheat varieties.

By using cutting-edge technologies such as genomics, genetics, bio-informatics and molecular biology, scientists built a wheat genomic variation map, and revealed that modern wheat varieties have lost over 60 percent of their genetic diversity through long-term artificial selection.

"This missing 60 percent discovered in this study is full of beneficial genes that we need to feed people sustainably," said Simon Griffiths, group leader at the John Innes Centre.

"We can retrace a huge set of novel, functional and beneficial diversity that were lost in modern wheat varieties, and now have the opportunity to add them back into elites in the breeding programs," said Cheng.

In addition, the research team has discovered new genes and thousands of genetic variation sites in wheat for high yield, high calcium content, lodging resistance, efficient nitrogen use, resistance to blast and leaf spot diseases. They have developed genomics and genetics resources and new tools useful for wheat research and breeding.

"This study has huge potential for future genetic improvement of wheat, and can be used to cultivate new wheat varieties with high yield and quality, stress resistance and adaptability to climate change," said Li Jiayang, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

Qian Qian, another CAS academician, commented that the astounding discovery offers significant inspiration and guidance for wheat breeding, and providing valuable genetic information for the innovative use of germplasm resources.

"This study has opened up endless possibilities for utilizing ancient germplasm resources to improve modern wheat breeding. It has epoch-making significance for wheat breeding in China and even the world," said Chu Chengcai, a professor with the South China Agricultural University.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
You are here: China

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits a middle school in Xining, northwest China's Qinghai Province, June 18, 2024. Xi inspected Qinghai Province on Tuesday. [Photo/Xinhua]

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspected northwest China's Qinghai Province on Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited a middle school and a Tibetan Buddhist temple in Xining, capital city of Qinghai.

He learned about local efforts in advancing the education work through collaboration between the eastern and western regions and paired assistance, and in strengthening education on forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.

Xi also learned about the efforts made by the Tibetan Buddhist circle in carrying forward the fine traditions of loving the country and the religion, and in promoting ethnic unity and progress.
The Philippines is eyeing to duplicate the success of online voting in the European country of Estonia in line with the goal of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to make it easier for Filipinos living and working abroad to cast their votes in next years midterm election.

In a recent forum held at the Rappler office in Pasig where Comelec demonstrated the automated counting machines (ACMs), Chairman George Erwin Garcia of the Comelec assured the public that online voting will be introduced in 2025, a move that is set to revolutionize the voting process for millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

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Garcia said the initiative aims to make voting more accessible and convenient for Filipinos living abroad, significantly pushing forward the countrys democratic process. He noted that if successful, the Comelec could extend online voting to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and pregnant women in the Philippines, thereby increasing democratic participation.

To leave no stone unturned in ensuring the success of the new voting method, Garcia announced that Comelec officials were sent to Estonia to benchmark the Baltic countrys trailblazing online voting system.

Just today, a commissioner and the head of the Information Technology Department left for Estonia, the first country in the world to implement voting. We want to learn how they secured and protected the votes of their citizens using internet voting. Of course, its best to get ideas from other countries that have already successfully used the technology, Garcia said.

Estonia has been offering internet voting to all its citizens since 2005, with 41% opting for this method in the recent European Parliament elections. The Estonian model features a seven-day online voting period while maintaining the option for in-person voting, ensuring flexibility and convenience.

The system, designed from the ground up to complement traditional voting, discourages coercion and vote-buying by allowing multiple online votes, with only the final vote counting. This ingenious feature, along with the rule that in-person votes overrule electronic ones, allows for greater election integrity.

Estonias system, initially developed by Estonian tech company Cybernetica and upgraded in 2014 with the help of international election company Smartmatic, has been providing a secure and effective online voting system to other countries like Norway, Germany, Canada, and Chile.

The introduction of the Automated Election System in 2010 has resulted in dramatic improvements in speed, accuracy, and security in the countrys electoral process. Observers see online voting as the next level in this evolution, promising to give a voice to the sizable Filipino diaspora, whose economic contributions hit a record high of US$36.14 billion in 2022.
Sara to lead oppositionRoque

Vice President Sara Duterte tendered her resignation as a member of the Cabinet on Wednesday, a move that was immediately accepted by the President.

Uniteam has formally been dissolved and (VP Sara) has just become the leader of the opposition. The line has been drawn, said former Duterte administration presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.

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I hereby tender my irrevocable resignation as Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd) and co-vice chairperson of the NTF-ELCAC effective 19 July 2024, Duterte wrote in her one-page letter.

For a proper and orderly turn-over, I have prepared a 30-day transition plan for all the nine strands in the Central office, as well as for the different Boards and Councils chaired by DepEd and SEAMEO.

I shall remain of service to the country through the various programs, activities and projects of the Office of the Vice President (OVP). I thank you for the opportunity to have served as a member of your Cabinet, she added.

Presidential Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil said the resignation was promptly accepted.

She (Duterte) declined to give a reason why. She will continue to serve as Vice President. We thank her for her service, Garafil said.

Senate President Francis Escudero said Dutertes resignation was inevitable from the time her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, and her siblings and allies started attacking the President and members of the First family.

Its inevitability became more pronounced when she was already silent and not expressing her support on certain policy issues such as the West Philippine Sea, the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn, and the Quiboloy cases and attempted arrest, (among others), Escudero said.

House Deputy Minority leader France Castro said Dutertes resignation marks the open war between the former allies and the upcoming escalation of hostilities between the two camps.

In April, President Marcos came to Dutertes defense, saying there was no need to replace her as Education Secretary amid questions on her loyalty as an alter-ego of the Chief Executive.

Mr. Marcos also assured the public their working relationship will not be affected amid the feud between the Vice President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.

Mrs. Marcos earlier did not mince words in expressing her disappointment at the Vice President, saying the latter crossed the line for laughing at insinuations that the President is a drug user.

Bad shot na yan sa akin (Shes a bad shot to me), Mrs. Marcos said in an earlier interview.

I was hurt because my husband will do everything to protect you You ran together right? But you will go to a rally where they called your President a drug user, right? Youre going to laugh  is that the proper thing to do? Mrs. Marcos added.

Relations between the Marcos and Duterte families have plummeted in the past two years.

Fronting a rally of supporters in his home city Davao on January 28, Rody Duterte accused Mr. Marcos of being a drug addict, while his youngest son, Mayor Sebastian Duterte, said Mr. Marcos should resign.

The President hit back the next day, claiming that his predecessors long-term use of the powerful opioid fentanyl had taken a toll on his health.

The former president has also urged the military and police to unseat Mr. Marcos if he pursued his proposal to amend the constitution, and threatened to get his southern home region of Mindanao to secede.

The Vice President also recently questioned the police operation against Quiboloy, saying her fathers spiritual adviser  who is wanted for acts of child abuse, sexual abuse, and human trafficking, among others  was being unfairly targetted.

In a press conference yesterday, Duterte said she resigned not out of weakness but brought out of true compassion for our teachers and Filipino youth.

Although I will no longer manage the department, we will continue to promote the quality of education that our Filipinos deserveEven though I am not the standing Education Secretary, I will remain a mother who monitors and stands up for the welfare of each teacher and student in the Philippines, she added.

Escudero said the Vice President has every right to have policy differences with her Chief Executive.

I believe that people love and respect her precisely for that for having and fighting for what she believes in and for her own beliefs, he said.

Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III, for his part, urged Mr. Marcos to immediately appoint the next DepEd Secretary.

He or she must be someone who has dedicated his or her life to education and can show the track record for it, he said.

Editors Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline VP Sara Duterte steps down as member of Marcos cabinet.
Hundreds of deserters and draft dodgers have fled to neighboring ex-Soviet countries where they are now stuck in limbo

ASTANA, Kazakhstan  Russian officer Farkhad Ziganshin had prepared himself for a life of military service since a young age.

He could never have imagined that one day he would become a deserter and flee the country.

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Russias invasion of Ukraine changed everything.

I dont support whats happening in Ukraine, I dont support the government weve had for so many years, Ziganshin, 24, told AFP in Kazakhstan, where he fled in Sept. 2022 after Vladimir Putin ordered Russias first military mobilization since World War II.

Faced with a choice between taking part in a war of aggression or going to prison for refusing to fight in Ukraine, hundreds of deserters and draft dodgers have fled to neighboring ex-Soviet countries where they are now stuck in limbo.

Russian authorities have opened a criminal case against Ziganshin for abandoning his unit. He does not feel safe in Kazakhstan and fears he might be deported to Russia.

But it is hard for men like him to seek refuge in the West because many Russian servicemen do not have the Russian passport that allows travel to Europe and only have documents that permit them to reach neighbors such as Kazakhstan or Armenia.

Anti-war activists urge European and US policymakers to do more to help men like Ziganshin, who are hunted at home and viewed with suspicion in the West.

While in Kazakhstan, Ziganshin was briefly arrested twice, most recently in June.

He is not giving up, however. He openly speaks of his opposition to Putin and the war in Ukraine with foreign journalists.

Together with other opponents of the war he has recorded videos to encourage Russians to flee the battlefield as part of an initiative dubbed Farewell to arms.

In one such video, a serviceman sets fire to a uniform bearing the letter Z, a symbol of Moscows invasion of Ukraine, before heading for the nearest forest.

No one attacked your homeland, says a message at the end of the clip. We have already refused to take part in a criminal war. You should too.

Live with dignity

Ziganshin went to a military boarding school at the age of 10 and graduated from a military academy that prepares Russian tank commanders.

He describes the Russian armed forces as a great school of life.

But when Russia invaded Ukraine, he realized this was not the army he wanted to dedicate his life to.

He managed to resign, only to learn the next day that a military mobilization had been declared and that he would be deployed to Ukraine, along with around 300,000 other men.

Ziganshin packed up in a hurry and fled to neighboring Kazakhstan. Afraid of being sent back to Moscow, where he will be criminally prosecuted, he has been trying to acquire a visa to travel to France.

Kazakh rights campaigner Artur Alkhastov said Russian deserters stand virtually no chance of receiving refugee status in the Central Asian country.

Weve got really strong diplomatic ties with Russia, said Alkhastov.

Campaigners have also accused local authorities of facilitating the arrests of Russians who have sought refuge in Kazakhstan.

Mikhail Zhilin of the Russian Federal Guard Service fled to Kazakhstan to avoid the draft, illegally crossing the border. He was sent back to Russia and last year sentenced to six and a half years in prison.

Russian contract soldier Kamil Kasimov, who also fled to Kazakhstan, this spring was detained and taken to a Russian military base in the town of Priozyorsk in central Kazakhstan, according to activists.

Ziganshin shudders at the thought of being sent back to Russia where he faces a long prison term. His Kazakh residence permit has expired.

Im young, I want to do something with my life, I want to live with dignity, he said.

Other Russian army deserters have fled to Armenia in the South Caucasus.

But like Kazakhstan, activists say the country hosting a Russian military base is also not a safe destination.

Two Russian deserters have been detained by Russian military personnel in Armenia over the past two years.

European countries remain out of bounds, said Ivan Chuviliaev, spokesman for anti-war Russian project Idite Lesom (Get lost), which has been helping Russians to desert and leave the country.

They have no documents to put a visa in, he said.
A new drinking water line is under construction in the Nebo community of McDowell County. The line is funded by a state grant.

In 2022, the county applied for and received a state grant to help extend a water line on Hoppy Tom Hollow Road. The grant, which was approximately $815,000, was awarded to the county by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, according to a news release from McDowell County.

The commissioners have tasked county staff with seeking as many grants as possible in order to grow the water system, County Manager Ashley Wooten said in the release. Our staff worked really hard on this grant since the need for service was very evident.

The project will extend a water line from Hoppy Tom Hollow Roads intersection with U.S. Highway 70 to the end of the road, a distance of about 4,220 feet. In addition, the grant will help residents connect to the system at no cost except for the initial deposit and the monthly bill.

The commissioners are overjoyed that we were able to secure the grant to help with this important project, Chairman David Walker said in the release. We are growing our system in Nebo to serve the needs of that community.
Maria Chale, a 36-year-old Malawian woman, lost her hearing at the age of 10 due to cerebral malaria. Despite facing challenges such as bullying and difficulty grasping lessons, she persevered and earned a masters degree in Inclusive and Special Education from the University of Edinburgh. Her story highlights the struggles deaf children face in Malawis inclusive education system.

Malawi shifted to an inclusive education system in the 1990s, but a 2021 study found that many deaf children struggle in mainstream classrooms due to isolation, loneliness, and teachers lack of understanding of their unique needs. Maria relied on lip-reading, copying notes from classmates, and the support of lecturers to succeed in her studies, but the lack of sign language support and difficulty lip-reading throughout entire lessons posed significant challenges.

Despite some improvements, such as the introduction of specialist teachers and government support for those with visual disabilities, many issues persist. Specialist teachers often lack the necessary skills to teach effectively in sign language, and there is little support for students transitioning to secondary school.

Malawi has taken steps to promote inclusive education, such as holding a Spelling Bee competition for deaf children and introducing relevant programs at colleges and universities. However, challenges remain, including a shortage of specialty teachers, a knowledge gap among educators regarding inclusion, and infrastructural issues.

Jenipher Mbukwa Ngwira, head of special needs education at the Catholic University of Malawi, emphasizes the need for policy implementation, teacher training, and a focus on children with cognitive challenges to create a truly inclusive learning environment for all.
Every year on June 16, South Africa observes Youth Day to commemorate the 1976 Soweto Uprising, a pivotal moment in the fight against apartheid. On this day 48 years ago, students in Soweto, the countrys largest black township, took to the streets to protest against the unjust and inferior Bantu education system imposed by the apartheid government.

The uprising began with thousands of students marching peacefully towards Orlando Stadium for a rally. However, they were met with heavily armed police who used tear gas and live ammunition against the demonstrators. This violent response sparked a massive revolt that quickly spread throughout Soweto and beyond, ultimately setting in motion the events that would lead to the demise of apartheid.

Youth Day serves as a poignant reminder of the young lives lost during the uprising and the sacrifices made in the struggle for equal education and freedom from oppression. The Soweto Uprising profoundly changed the sociopolitical landscape of South Africa, galvanizing the anti-apartheid movement and drawing international attention to the injustices of the apartheid system.

Today, Youth Day is not only a day of remembrance but also a celebration of the courage and resilience of South Africas youth. It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since 1976 and to recommit to the ongoing fight for equality, justice, and opportunity for all young people in the country. By honoring the legacy of the Soweto Uprising, South Africans continue to work towards building a society that upholds the values and ideals for which the students of 1976 so bravely fought.
A tragic accident during the funeral procession of the late Malawi Vice-President Saulos Chilima claimed the lives of four people, including a pregnant woman, and injured twelve others on Sunday night. The incident occurred when a vehicle attempting to avoid the convoy carrying the vice presidents body struck a group of mourners.

The accident happened amidst clashes between local people, police, and soldiers escorting the funeral convoy from the capital, Lilongwe, to Mr Chilimas home village for burial. Witnesses reported that as the procession passed through areas close to the vice presidents home, some people began throwing stones at government vehicles and officials. In the commotion, a privately owned vehicle swerved to avoid the convoy, veering off the road and hitting the mourners.

Mr Chilimas UTM party spokesman, Felix Njawala, told AFP that there was tension along the route as mourners demanded the procession stop so they could view the coffin. The party has condemned the violence and urged supporters to refrain from further destructive acts, emphasizing Mr Chilimas advocacy for peace.

The 51-year-old vice-president, who died in a plane crash a week ago, was considered a breath of fresh air in Malawian politics and had a special connection with the youth. His party formed a coalition government with President Chakweras party after winning the 2020 elections as alliance partners. Despite facing corruption charges in 2022, which were later dropped, Mr Chilima maintained his innocence.

President Chakwera has vowed to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the plane crash that claimed Mr Chilimas life.
A fire at a military ammunition depot in NDjamena, the capital of Chad, triggered a series of powerful explosions late on Tuesday, causing an unknown number of casualties and widespread damage. Foreign Affairs Minister Koulamallah Abderaman confirmed the incident on Facebook, stating that there had been huge explosions in the citys Goudji district.

President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno acknowledged the loss of life and injuries caused by the blaze, promising to launch an investigation into the cause of the fire. Residents in the area reported feeling the impact of the explosions, with some describing their homes shaking as if they were under attack. One resident, Moustapha Adoum Mahamat, told Reuters that loud blasts woke them up, and they witnessed artillery shells flying overhead.

Tragically, a shopkeeper was killed after being hit by a shell, according to a resident. Social media users shared images of spent artillery shells that had landed in nearby homes. Kadidja Dakou, a 36-year-old resident of the Amsinene area near Goudji, fled her home with her three children, fearing the house would collapse. She reported that the roof of their house had been blown off by one of the explosions.

The ammunition depot is located in a neighborhood with multiple homes and is situated near the international airport and a base for French troops. An official with the French forces, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the blaze had caused explosions of ammunition of all calibers.
Sudan has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of fueling the ongoing 14-month war in the country by providing weapons to the rival paramilitary force, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The accusation was made by Sudanese Ambassador Al-Harith Mohamed during a UN Security Council meeting, where he stated that Sudan has evidence of the UAE supplying weapons and will submit a file on UAE actions to the International Criminal Court.

The UAE dismissed the allegation as ludicrous and a shameful abuse by one of the warring parties. UAE Ambassador Mohamed Abushahab called the accusations false and questioned why Sudans government refuses to return to peace talks. He urged Sudans ambassador to take responsibility for ending the conflict they started.

The Security Council meeting also addressed the dire situation in Sudans western Darfur region, with Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee warning of atrocities being committed along ethnic lines. She called for an immediate cease-fire in the North Darfur capital, El Fasher, which is besieged by the RSF.

The lives of 800,000 civilians trapped in El Fasher are at risk, with indiscriminate bombings, sexual violence, and imminent famine affecting millions in Darfur. Almost 5 million people face emergency levels of food insecurity, and over 2 million in 41 hunger hotspots are at high risk of catastrophic hunger.

Sudan plunged into conflict in mid-April 2023 when tensions between its military and paramilitary leaders erupted in the capital, Khartoum, and spread to other regions, including Darfur. The UN estimates that over 14,000 people have been killed and 33,000 injured in the conflict.
 Flash

The third Yangtze River Delta (Haining) camping lifestyle and outdoor equipment import and export expo kicked off in Haining, Zhejiang province, on June 14, aiming to propel the growth of the local outdoor and camping sector while fostering a burgeoning culture and tourism epicenter.

With over 600 attendees, including industry leaders, domestic and international outdoor equipment companies, and camping enthusiasts, the five-day extravaganza featured a diverse array of activities. From an RV lifestyle party to enchanting magic shows, themed musicals, and more than 50 interactive co-creation experiences, the event sought to vividly exemplify the allure of contemporary summer camping.

Xu Honglian, Haining's deputy Party secretary, highlighted the surging popularity of camping as a lifestyle trend, emphasizing its resonance with evolving societal attitudes. Liu Haifeng, president of the camping branch of the China Tourist Attractions Association, lauded the expo as a valuable blueprint for cities looking to enhance their outdoor industries, underscoring its significance in shaping the future of recreational tourism.
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Who should be spared pain, hurt or disappointment, and who should be harmed? This internal dilemma accompanied the participants of the Milgram experiment, say experts from SWPS University. They have revisited the causes of obedience in that famous study and showed that the experimenter's physical proximity promotes subjects' obedience, while the learner's physical proximity decreases it. The research is published in The Journal of Social Psychology.

American social psychologist Stanley Milgram's demonstration of the human tendency to show extreme obedience to authority was one of the most important discoveries in the field of social psychology.

The power of authority

In the early 1960s, Milgram developed an experiment that measured the willingness to obey an authority figure. Throughout the history of science, the experiment has been repeated many times on various social groups, both by Milgram himself and by other scientists.

Experiments in their original version, designed by the American, ended in the 1970s for ethical reasons. In recent years, the experiment has been replicated in a milder form, due to the importance of knowledge about human behavior, derived from studies on authoritarianism.

In the original version of the experiment, the participants (40 people) were told that the experiment was intended to study the effect of punishment on a subject's ability to memorize content. It was explained to them that it would involve the participation of two people, one acting as a teacher and the other as a learner.

The subject was assigned the role of teacher. The subjects did not know that the entire experimental procedure was staged and that the alleged learner was an actor. The subjects' task was to administer an electric shock to the learner each time the learner made a mistake in the learning process.

The experimenter instructed the subject-teacher to administer successive, increasingly stronger electric shocks to the learner upon each incorrect answer. When the shock was administered, the learners made specific sounds indicating the pain they felt.

Most subjects (over 60%, depending on the version of the experiment) obeyed all the experimenter's instructions and finally pressed the 450 V button, the highest setting of the electric shock generator.

Where does obedience come from?

"Milgram offered a simple and suggestive explanation for these results. He proposed that participants assumed the role of individuals who were subordinate to the experimenter and they did not feel fully responsible for their actions. Even though they experienced severe stress and tension, as they were aware of the fact that they were severely hurting another person, they were unable to walk away from the situation and refuse to continue with the experiment," said Professor Dariusz Dolinski, a psychologist from SWPS University.

For many years, scientists have been looking for other mechanisms that could explain the obedience of participants in the famous experiment. Researchers at SWPS University, professors Dariusz Dolinski and Tomasz Grzyb, proposed a theoretical model, supported by research, to shed new light on the reasons for the behavior of subjects in the Milgram experiment.

"Our approach is based on the assumption that one must consider the relationship of the participant with the experimenter on the one hand, and their relationship with the learner on the other. Participants are in conditions of classical avoidance-avoidance conflict, when we are faced with two undesirable incentives and are forced to make a choice. The conflict is of such a nature that none of the choices is obvious and none is better than the other," says Professor Tomasz Grzyb, a psychologist from SWPS University.

A tragic conflict in a classic experiment

On the one hand, the participants in Milgram's experiments did not want to harm the learners, as evidenced by their extreme stress, hesitation prior to pushing successive buttons and questions about whether they really had to do so.

On the other hand, they did not want to harm the experimenter who, to their knowledge, had prepared the studies, hoped to collect interesting data, and had invested time in conducting the experiment. Additionally, immediately after arriving at the laboratory, participants received money from the experimenter for participating in the study, which could strongly motivate them to reciprocate.

"So the participant had to somehow resolve this conflict, in which if he decided not to harm the learner, he would harm the experimenter, and if he decided not to harm the experimenter, he would have to harm the learner," says Professor Dariusz Dolinski.

The researchers assumed that the relationship between the subject and the learner, and between the subject and the experimenter was significantly influenced by the staging of the experiment, which differed in its individual variants. A situation in which the experimenter and the subject are in the same room, and the learner in another, will be conducive to obedience.

Proximity promotes empathy

Analysis of various variants of the Milgram experiment and other studies on the role that physical distance plays in shaping reactions to the suffering of others confirms this assumption. They have shown, among other things, that the parts of the brain corresponding to experiencing empathy (primarily anterior cingulate cortex) become more active when physical distance between the participant and the person in distress is smaller.

To confirm the model indicating the importance of staging in the Milgram experiment, researchers at SWPS University decided to conduct their own study.

"Milgram did not conduct his research under conditions where the participant is placed in one room with the learner while the experimenter stays in another room. Such conditions are crucial from the perspective of our proposed model, as obedience of the participants should be lowest under those circumstances," said Professor Tomasz Grzyb.

"Secondly, in the Milgram experiments discussed here, only male participants were involved. Lastly, Milgram conducted separate experiments at different times and then compared their results. Our intention was to conduct a single experiment where we could manipulate factors related to its spatial organization."

The designed study could also clarify whether the differences in subjects' obedience observed in the various Milgram experiments were actually a consequence of physical distance, or due to other differences between the created conditions.

Proximity to authority promotes obedience

In the study by professors Dariusz Dolinski and Tomasz Grzyb, the participants (160 people in total) were randomly assigned to one of the four conditions. 20 women and 20 men were examined in each condition. For ethical reasons, researchers used the obedience lite procedure, which involves stopping the experiment when the participant obeys the experimenter's tenth command, i.e. presses the button marked 150 V.

In the first condition, the participant (teacher) and the experimenter giving them instructions were in the same room, while the supposed learner sat behind a wall. In the second condition, all three individuals were in the same room, and in the third condition, each of them was in a different room. In the fourth condition, the participant and the learner were in the same room, while the experimenter sat in an adjacent room.

In the two conditions where the experimenter was in the same room as the study participant, 69 out of 80 individuals followed all of the experimenter's instructions. In conditions where the experimenter was absent, 59 out of 80 individuals were completely obedient.

In conditions where the learner was in the same room as the study participant, 57 out of 80 individuals followed all of the experimenter's instructions. In conditions where the learner was absent, 70 out of 80 individuals were completely obedient.

The obedience ratio was the highest in the group where the participant was in the same room with the experimenter and the alleged learner was in another room. It reached over 9.8 on a 10-point scale, which meant obeying all the experimenter's instructions.

"Our experiment has demonstrated that the presumed avoidance-avoidance conflict is more often resolved in such a way as to avoid hurting the learner when he is physically present (i.e., he is in the same room as the participant). This is true particularly often when, simultaneously, the experimenter is not physically present," said Professor Dariusz Dolinski.

"The results we have obtained suggest the importance of concurrently considering the distances between the participant and the learner, on the one hand, and between the participant and the experimenter, on the other. This approach sheds light on the interconnected nature of these distances and underscores their collective impact on participant behavior in Milgram's experiments."

The researchers emphasize that although the reactions of Milgram's subjects were affected by various situational as well as personality-based factors, the model they proposed, along with empirical verification, is another important step in expanding our knowledge of one of the most fascinating phenomena of social psychology: obedience to authority.

More information: Dariusz Dolinski et al, Obedience to authority as a function of the physical proximity of the student, teacher, and experimenter, The Journal of Social Psychology (2024). DOI: 10.1080/00224545.2024.2348479

Provided by SWPS University
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People flock to Greece's islands to enjoy the sights and history. Rarely though do they consider the dangers.

Three tourists died this month in Greece while going out in temperatures over 100 from back-to-back heat waves. Five more tourists are missing.

It's not unusual for people to forget about the risk that extreme temperatures pose, especially while traveling, said Stephen Wood, associate clinic professor and program director of the extreme medicine certificate at Northeastern University.

But people should take extra precautions when traveling in climates much warmer than what they're used to, or else risk heat-related illness.

"There's frequently this false sense of security that when you're on vacation you're going to be taken care of in some form," Wood said. "But in reality, you're probably more at risk when you're on vacation for many different reasons."

For starters, many people are out of their normal routine on vacation: they may be drinking more alcohol or caffeine in lieu of water, Wood said, or plan daily hikes and activities that keep them more active than usual.

And they might be more focused on their itinerary than the weather and go out without preparing adequately for hot temperatures. Wood said many people don't look ahead when planning their trips or are left without proper supplies if they're not packing the right clothes and equipment.

In several of the missing person cases out of Greece, officials said the person in question was last seen going out on a hike or walk in the heat and left with little water.

"When people are on vacation, they are not paying attention to those kinds of things," Wood said. "They're paying attention to how they can maximize their trip. They're not likely to pay attention to heat advisories or other warnings. That makes them more susceptible."

People also tend to overestimate their own abilities and underestimate the effects of heat, Wood added. At least one missing tourist in Greece knew the local hiking trails he was taking well, officials said, and opted for a 12-mile route on the day he went missing.

Our bodies are also acclimated to the environment we know best, Wood added, so people traveling from areas that don't often experience high temperatures are more prone to illness when traveling in a heat wave.

All these things place people at risk of heat-related illness like heat stroke or heat exhaustion. One of the symptoms of these can be disorientation, which a Greek spokesperson said could be the culprit behind the country's spike in missing hikers.

"The problem of missing hikers is not newwe have it every year," Constantina Dimoglidou, a police spokeswoman, told the New York Times. "But this year, it seems more people became disoriented during the heat wave."

Many heat advisories warn of non-exertional heat illness that affects very young people or elderly people, even when they're not exerting themselves. But anyone can suffer from exertional heat illness when pushing themselves in extreme temperatures.

"To witness that, all you have to do is go to any hiking trail," Wood said. "A lot of people feel prepared for that environment. They're young, they're healthy, but they just don't have the right equipment and gear. They're not paying attention to advisories and they get themselves into trouble."

To avoid this, Wood says to do as the locals do when traveling in the heat.

"If they're wearing wide brim hats and loose fitting clothing, then that's probably what you should be wearing as well," Wood said.

Wood said it's also beneficial to avoid wearing dark colorsbecause they absorb more heatas well as caffeinated beverages and alcohol since they can cause dehydration. Instead, drink plenty of water and wear lighter colors along with sunblock.

He also recommends people adjust their vacation itineraries to avoid being outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m, when the sun is most intense.

"That's the time you want to limit your activities to being indoors in an air conditioned area or being in a pool," he said.

If you are out and about during these times, bring water with you as well as a fan. And be sure to know your limits as well as the sign of heat-related illness. Heavy sweating, weakness, a rapid pulse and cramps can all be signs you need to get out of the heat.

"When you're on vacation, you feel infallible, and you don't worry about these things," Wood said. "You shouldn't have to, but use the same sense that you would use anywhere else."

This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu.
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A new study led by researchers at UCLA Health found that early life caregiving experiences including skin-to-skin contact at birth, number of individuals in physical contact with the infant at birth, and the amount of time infants were in physical contact with caregivers were significantly associated with the composition of the infant gut microbiome up to six months of age. The work is published in the American Journal of Biological Anthropology.

These factors explained up to 11% of variation in the microbiome among infants and were associated with altered abundance of important early life gut bacteria such as Bifidobacterium.

Previous research has shown that having multiple caregivers beyond biological parents benefits infants' health, but the underlying biological mechanism remains unknown. The researchers investigated whether an infant's contact with a caregiver influenced the composition of their microbiome.

While other research has focused on how the mode of birth delivery impacts the microbiome, this is believed to be the first study to observe how a caregiver's role within the first couple of weeks affects infants' health.

The researchers surveyed the early life caregiving environment two weeks after birth. They then collected and sequenced stool samples at two weeks, and two, six, and 12 months of age.

Given these findings, the researchers hope to further explore the social transmission of microbes.

More information: Kyle S. Wiley et al, Contact with caregivers is associated with composition of the infant gastrointestinal microbiome in the first 6 months of life, American Journal of Biological Anthropology (2023). DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24858
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Education bosses in Los Angeles are moving towards a complete ban on smartphone and social media use by children during the school day.

Education bosses in Los Angeles voted Tuesday to work towards a complete ban on the use of smartphones in the city's schools.

The move came as the governor of California, the most populous state in the US, voiced support for restrictions on the devices and as concerns grow about their impact on the mental health of young people.

The Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education, which manages the second biggest school district in the country, ordered staff to devise a plan to prohibit cell phones and social media throughout the school day.

"Schools that have...already implemented a phone-free school day report incredible resultskids are happier, they're talking to one another, their academics are up," said board member Nick Melvoin, who proposed the ban.

"And so I really think this is an idea whose time has come."

The resolution cited research indicating excessive cell phone use was associated with increased stress, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, feelings of aggression, and suicidal thoughts in adolescents.

It says eliminating phone and social media usage during the day has been shown to increase scores on standardized tests and final exams, gains that are "equivalent to an additional hour of instructional time per week."

The LAUSD vote, which would affect 600,000 students, comes after the US surgeon general, the country's top doctor, called for warning labels on social media platforms, which he said were incubating a mental health crisis.

"Adolescents who spend more than three hours a day on social media face double the risk of anxiety and depression symptoms," Dr. Vivek Murthy wrote in a New York Times opinion piece.

"The average daily use in this age group, as of the summer of 2023, was 4.8 hours," he noted.

Hours before the LAUSD vote on the resolution, which instructs staff to come up with a plan within the next four months, California Governor Gavin Newsom threw his weight behind a state-wide effort to clamp down on smartphone use among schoolchildren.

"As the Surgeon General affirmed, social media is harming the mental health of our youth," he said.

"When children and teens are in school, they should be focused on their studiesnot their screens."

A bill pending in the California state legislature would require school districts to adopt measures prohibiting or limiting students' use of phones while at schools.

"I look forward to working with the Legislature to restrict the use of smartphones during the school day," said Newsom, a father of four.

Florida, whose governor Ron DeSantis is an arch-rival of Newsom's, banned student cell phone use last year.

Similar plans are afoot in Oklahoma, Kansas, Vermont, Ohio, Louisiana and Pennsylvania.

 2024 AFP
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Scanning electron microscope image of Vibrio cholerae. Credit: Wikipedia

Nigerian health officials are issuing warnings over a cholera outbreak that has killed at least 30 people, many of them in the commercial capital Lagos, since the start of the year.

Cholera is an acute intestinal infection that spreads through contaminated food and water. It typically causes severe diarrhea, vomiting and muscle crampsand sometimes death.

Lagos State health officials reported 15 deaths so far and 350 suspected cases, according to a statement on X, formerly Twitter this week.

Lagos Water Corporation warned against consuming water from unreliable or untreated courses.

"According to the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the primary cause of the cholera outbreak has been linked to the consumption of contaminated water and inadequate sanitation," it said in a statement.

Last week, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control and Prevention alerted the public of the increasing trend in cases of the disease across the country as the rainy season intensifies.

The agency said 30 people had died since the start of the year. An outbreak killed 128 people with more than 3,600 suspected cases across Africa's most populous country last year compared to two deaths in 2022.

Nigeria is particularly vulnerable to cholera outbreaks.

In 2021, an epidemic killed more than 2,300 people, especially children under the age of 14, according to health authorities.

 2024 AFP
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Last year, Oregon became the first state in the nation to provide state-regulated access to supervised services involving mind-altering magic mushroomsraising the likelihood of introducing psilocybin to many Oregonians who have never experienced psychedelics before.

"There are no measures of best practices because the field is so new," said Todd Korthuis, M.D., M.P.H., professor of medicine (general internal medicine and geriatrics) in the School of Medicine at Oregon Health & Science University.

Now, a new publication from OHSU and other institutions for the first time establishes a series of practices gleaned from experienced psilocybin facilitators to ensure the safety and effectiveness of psilocybin services offered to the general public.

The study appears in the Journal of Psychopharmacology.

Researchers recruited 36 highly seasoned psilocybin experts with experience facilitating psilocybin within clinical trials, in ceremonial settings and in traditional indigenous practices. Together, the experts identified measures they believed to represent best practices. Researchers used a method known as the Delphi approach to arrive at consensus; the approach uses several rounds of information-gathering among a group of experts to identify conclusions.

The study generated 22 key measures of high-quality services, including the most important service delivery processes, safety indicators and client outcomes.

As other states and localities join Oregon and Colorado in legalizing psychedelics, the new publication provides the first set of core measures to monitor for safety, quality and effectiveness. Because Oregon's program is the first of its kind, there are no established standards for measuring the safety or effectiveness of these services.

"It ultimately gives policymakers and program managers a harmonized set of measures they can use to say how safe and effective these services are in the community," said Korthuis, the study's senior author.

In Oregon and Colorado, voters have approved the use of psilocybin in supervised settings for people 21 and older.

Other states may choose to authorize the use of psilocybin and other psychedelics in the context of medical therapy. Psychedelics have been tested experimentally in clinical trials for treatment of mental health conditions, including the use of psilocybin to treat depression and alcohol use disorder, or the use of MDMA, colloquially known as Ecstasy or Molly, for treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. But it's unclear how the safety and benefits observed in carefully controlled experiments translate to widespread state-approved community access.

New tools for emerging psychedelic services industry

Researchers used a methodology common in assessing various types of medical interventions.

"Even though the use of psilocybin in Oregon is happening outside of the health care system, it clearly may affect people's health whether they're seeking it for that reason or not," said Korthuis, who also heads addiction medicine at OHSU. "It's crucial that policymakers and the public have a way to understand the effects of these policies."

The study identified core process and outcome measures ranging from the obvious to the eye-opening.

Among the 22 measures, for example, experts in the study recommended facilitators prepare for the session by asking about boundaries and preferences around touch, as some clients may express a desire for human touch, such as holding their hand, to help them navigate the experience.

Among the outcome measures, clients should rate the overall benefits and harms of the experience, and facilitators should complete a safety checklist documenting items such as whether the client left before the session was complete or required referral for medical attention.

The safety checklist and other measures provide important tools for the brand-new psychedelic services industry. The results of this study will help researchers, policymakers and service providers decide what data to collect in order to monitor their programs. By using the same set of measures, all state-level programs can be easily compared and combined, to get an overall picture of safety and success.

Researchers included members of a collaborative group of therapists and scientists known as Open Psilocybin Evaluation Nexus, or OPEN. The organization is housed at OHSU and focused on research to assess the safe and equitable implementation of psychedelic services, including psilocybin approved by Oregon voters in 2020.

More information: Philip Todd Korthuis et al, Developing the Open Psychedelic Evaluation Nexus consensus measures for assessment of supervised psilocybin services: An e-Delphi study, Journal of Psychopharmacology (2024). DOI: 10.1177/02698811241257839 Journal information: Journal of Psychopharmacology
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Snapshot from the laboratory experiment with mobile eye tracker Credit: Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics

Our eyesight declines with age and poor lighting or strong contrasts between light and dark can limit the ability of older people to react in everyday life, resulting in a negative impact on the sleep-wake-rhythm.

As neuroscientists at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics in Tubingen and the University of Basel confirm, this is also due to the diminishing ability of the eyes pupil to dilate sufficiently. Their results have been published in the journal Royal Society Open Science.

When driving in the evening, oncoming vehicles can dazzle you and impair your vision. Sometimes so badly that you can only make out the edges of the road, the road median or people. Although situations like this do not exclusively affect older people, their pupils seem to react less agilely to dynamically changing light stimuli compared to younger people.

To test their assumption, the scientists equipped women and men aged between 18 and 87 with a compact and mobile measuring device in a field experiment under natural lighting situationsand also examined them in a laboratory experiment under controllable lighting conditions.

"Many findings about the pupil come from pure laboratory tests. It is important to us that the results are comparable and directly transferable to everyday life. That's why we designed the study to be as close to everyday life as possible," explains Rafael Lazar, Ph.D. student at the Center for Chronobiology at the University of Basel, Switzerland.

Incidentally, this study is unique in its form because it has not yet been technically feasible to carry out measurements under real-life conditions with a very compact and mobile solution.

The participants were exposed to various everyday situations under typical lighting conditions during the day: indoors with artificial and natural light, at work on a computer with an LED screen and outdoors on a walk under natural light.

In the laboratory, all test subjects were then also exposed to artificial light of different wavelengths (red, green, blue and white) and their pupil dilation was measured for comparability and controllability with other studies.

Pupil width declines by around 0.4 millimeters per decade

"Our results confirm the hypothesis that the pupil's ability to adjust to varying light situations decreases as we get older. Based on our broad sample, we can determine that the pupil width declines by around 0.4 millimeters per decade. Young people see dimly lit night environments better than older people due to the greater agility of their pupils," explains project leader Manuel Spitschan, who is a research group leader at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics and a professor at the Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine and Health.

When light enters the eye, the pupil functions like the aperture of a camera and the retina like a light-sensitive sensor: in bright light, the pupil closes to a diameter of up to two millimeters, allowing less light to reach the stimulus-sensitive light receptors of the retina inside the eye. In dim light, it opens up to eight millimeters so that more light can reach the brightness- and color-sensitive cells of the retina.

If the incidence of light becomes too high, the visual perception would correspond to overexposure; if there is not enough light, it would result in underexposure.

"In the home or at work, decreasing visual acuity can play a role to the disadvantage of the general quality of life and work due to reduced pupil dilation. If the eye has to adjust quickly to changing brightness levels, too much contrasting lighting in the outdoor area of a house at night or on a staircase can lead to a tripping hazard. In the workplace, a well-lit environment without glare can help if people need to react quickly or require a high level of concentration. This is crucial in working environments with a higher risk of injury," recommends Manuel Spitschan.

Impact on sleep-wake-rhythm of elder people

The illumination of the retina is also important for our internal clock, as it is constantly synchronized with the surrounding environment through the alternation of light and dark. The current study showed that older people have much less light available for their circadian clock.

This has an impact on physical well-being, especially on healthy sleep. "We know that older people have a higher vulnerability to disruption of their sleep-wake cycle. Our study shows that the dose of light that we need to support our health and well-being may need to be adjusted as we age, though there is also evidence that our brain also adapts. Future research will tease apart how to turn this into actionable recommendations for everyoneyoung and old."

It is also interesting to note that eye color, gender or caffeine consumption have no influence on visual acuity in connection with pupil dilation as people age.

More information: Rafael Lazar et al, Regulation of pupil size in natural vision across the human lifespan, Royal Society Open Science (2024). DOI: 10.1098/rsos.191613 Journal information: Royal Society Open Science
Missoula County will no longer require a building permit for greenhouses, pergolas, gazebos and other non-habitable additions to residential homes like decks and porches following a vote by commissioners on Tuesday.

The county has been working to identify unnecessary permits since September, according to Kevin Heisler, a building official with the county. The county put out a survey to residents and hosted stakeholder meetings.

"There's a pretty large swatch of (permits) that are required for residential now, and so this is kind of a multistep process to get to where we are right now," Heisler said.

The building department recommended the removal of permits to structures that are technically "residential," but are not needed for habitation or are primarily used for growing plants.

Previously, the county only allowed storage spaces under 200 square feet to be built without a permit.

With Tuesday's vote, greenhouses, "hoop structures" for plant protection, pergolas, gazebos, covered entryways, covered patios, covered decks, or lean-to structures for storage do not need a permit.

While the county will be loosening restrictions, residents within city limits must still get a permit for decks, greenhouses and new construction in most zoned areas, according to city building codes. State rules also require permits for electrical, sewer and health department inspections.

The county also reinstated its agricultural exemption, which allows farmers and ranchers to build agricultural structures with no restrictions. The exemption was in effect in Missoula County until 2020, when the county found that there were some landowners who built garages and houses using the exemption, according to Commissioner Josh Slotnick.

The new exemption will have extra restrictions, such as submitting proof that a structure is needed for agricultural uses to the Montana Department of Revenue to prevent misuse, Heisler said.

"You have to be a farm," Slotnick said.

Commissioner Juanita Vero said the county will develop a Frequently Asked Questions Document to help residents understand the new rules, which take effect July 1.
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Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, June 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Kuala Lumpur Tuesday for an official visit to Malaysia, the third and last leg of his eight-day tour that has taken him to New Zealand and Australia.

Li said upon arrival that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, China-Malaysia relations have maintained sound development, as strategic mutual trust has been continuously consolidated, cultural and people-to-people exchanges have become ever closer, and high-quality Belt and Road cooperation has yielded fruitful results, which have brought tangible benefits to the two peoples and contributed to regional peace and development.

Li noted that last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reached an important consensus on jointly building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, opening a new chapter in China-Malaysia relations.

China is willing to work hand in hand with Malaysia, taking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties as a new starting point to further strengthen the alignment of development strategies, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, enhance civilization exchanges and mutual learning, and continuously push forward the building of the China-Malaysia community with a shared future, so as to make greater contributions to peace, stability, development, and prosperity in the region and worldwide, Li said.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, June 18, 2024. Li arrived here Tuesday for an official visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia. [Photo/Xinhua]

Li arrived in Kuala Lumpur after concluding an official visit to Australia and holding the ninth China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

During his stay in Malaysia, Li will have talks with Malaysia's King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar and Prime Minister Anwar, and attend an event commemorating the 50th anniversary.
A Butte man pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges that he raped a 4-year-old when he was 17 and they were playing hide-and-seek near Whittier Elementary School last October.

Prosecutors charged Talon Redhawk Springer as an adult in November 2023 and after seven months of legal proceedings and consideration, District Judge Robert Whelan ruled last week that Springer will be tried as an adult.

He is charged with sexual intercourse without consent, or sexual assault in the alternative, but either is punishable by up to 100 years in prison.

Public defenders had asked Springers case be transferred to Youth Court, where proceedings are less formal and consequences of convictions are much less severe.

Whelan acknowledged that Springer was abandoned by his parents as an infant, was abused and neglected at a kinship home as a young child and had been placed in a series of foster homes, group homes and treatment facilities.

But he denied the transfer request, saying the allegations are significant, Springer was only four months from turning 18 at the time and Youth Court proceedings would not serve the interests of community protection.

The alleged facts of this case are extreme and of concern to the Court and therefore a District Court prosecution is appropriate, Whelan said in his order. The Defendant in this matter is alleged to have isolated a 4-year-old juvenile female and subjected her to sexual contact.

Springer was sent to a juvenile corrections facility after his arrest but was transferred to the Butte jail when he turned 18 in January.

According to charging documents filed by prosecutor Ann Shea, the girl and several siblings were at the playground of Whitter School on Oct. 7 playing hide-and-seek and an older boy was with them.

At one point, according to a sibling, the boy asked the 4-year-old girl to go hide with him and the two went inside a plastic shed commonly used to store outdoor equipment.

The girl, soon afterward, told her mother that a boy took down her pants and then took down his own pants. In two subsequent forensic interviews, the girl provided more specifics, ultimately telling authorities the boy touched her genitals with his finger and his genitals and that it "hurt" her.

An older sister told police she opened the shed door and saw the older boy, later identified as Springer, up against the 4-year-old with her dress pulled up. He was clothed at that time, she said.

Springer was identified through a police investigation of another incident that occurred at the Butte YMCA earlier that day. A 10-year-old boy and his friend were in the YMCA pool and they told a mother the older boy was playing ball with them.

They said the older boy told them to meet him at Whittier School at 4:15 p.m. and asked for their phone numbers, but they didnt give them out. The mother went by Whittier School at 4:15 p.m. and took a photo of the older boy, according to charging documents.

The mother said the boys were crying and upset all that night but they wouldnt say anything more. Police checked with YMCA staff and found out Springer was there and he was later identified by photo as being at Whittier School.

Officers located Springer and during an interview, he said he was playing volleyball with the boys at the YMCA and there was a discussion about meeting them at Whittier. Nothing else happened, he said.

He acknowledged playing hide-and-seek with other kids at Whittier and hid with one girl but thought she was around 12 years old. When an officer said he had information Springer hid with a younger girl, Springer said that was possible but he didnt remember.

Under Montana law, sexual intercourse without consent means penetration, however slight, of the vulva, anus or mouth by someone elses body part or an instrument.

Sexual assault means touching another persons intimate parts to degrade, harass or for sexual arousal.

Springer appeared for Wednesdays arraignment via video from the Butte jail with public defender Kaylee Hafer by his side. His bail is set at $50,000 but Hafer asked that a hearing be set to possibly reduce that.

If you or someone you know are a victim of sexual violence, RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is available to help. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673 or chat online at online.rainn.org. RAINN is the nations largest anti-sexual violence organization, working in partnership with more than 1,000 local service providers.
French shooter of Spanish politician arrested in the Netherlands



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Dutch police have arrested a Frenchman suspected of pulling the trigger against the Spanish politician shot in Madrid in 2023

Dutch Police have arrested a man in the Netherlands on suspicion of being the alleged perpetrator of the shooting of former Spanish politician and vocal critic of the Iranian regime Alejo Vidal-Quadras.

The latest person to be arrested in connection with the plot to assassinate Vidal-Quadras last November is Mehrez Ayari, a 37-year-old French man of Tunisian origin, with multiple prior convictions in France.

As reported by the Spanish National Police Force, Ayari had an International Arrest Warrant issued against him by the Audiencia Nacional court in Spain, whose court number 5 is investigating the case.

It is thought that he is the person who actually pulled the trigger in the attack.

Upon waking up from a coma, he alleged that the regime in Iran must be behind the assassination attempt due to his vocal criticism of them in the past.

Vidal-Quadras is one of the founding members of the far-right Vox party in Spain and former president of the centre-right Popular Party of Catalonia.

This weeks arrest is the sixth made as part of the investigation into the attack on him last year.

Among those arrested is Greg Oliver Higuera Marcano, a Venezuelan national located on the Colombian border allegedly involved in the purchase of the motorbike used in the getaway and whose extradition to Spain has been requested by the judge.

In April of this year, police arrested another suspect in Holland for her alleged involvement in the financing and preparation of the attack against the politician.

The first three arrests took place on November 21, 2023 in Spain: a couple in Lanjaron (Granada) and a young man in Fuengirola (Malaga). The man arrested in the Granada town was remanded in custody, while the woman  of British origin  and the young man  also linked to the motorbike  were released.

Image 2: Emergencias Madrid
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Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Executive Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic in Brussels, Belgium, June 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

The fifth High-Level Environment and Climate Dialogue between China and the European Union (EU) was held Tuesday in Brussels, with both sides agreeing to deepen green cooperation.

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Executive Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic held the dialogue.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that in recent years, Chinese President Xi Jinping and EU leaders have frequently held meetings and reached a lot of consensus on enhancing China-EU cooperation in green transformation.

Ding noted that China has consistently recognized Europe's crucial role in the multi-polar world and regards the EU as an important priority for China's major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics and also as an important partner for achieving Chinese modernization.

"We need to work together to implement the important consensus reached by Chinese and EU leaders, push for more fruitful cooperation on green transformation, and consolidate the momentum of stable and sound China-EU relations," Ding said.

Ding pointed out that China has firmly implemented its national strategy to address climate change, achieving remarkable results in green and low-carbon development. He noted that China has become an important participant, contributor, and leader in the construction of global ecological civilization.

Ding said that China has announced that it will peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. This commitment has been integrated into the overall framework of China's ecological civilization construction, as well as the country's economic and social development. A series of practical measures have also been formulated and implemented to ensure the realization of these goals on schedule.

"This is not what others want us to do, but what we need to do," Ding said.

Highlighting that China and the EU share extensive common interests and broad space for cooperation in green transformation, Ding emphasized that both sides should fully leverage the high-level dialogue mechanism, seek common ground while setting aside differences, maintain the positive momentum of environmental and climate cooperation, and deepen the China-EU green partnership.

"We need to tap the potential for cooperation in key areas and strengthen mutual learning in areas such as green energy, green and low-carbon technologies, plastic pollution control, and chemical environmental management," he said. "We should focus on building consensus on cooperation in multilateral processes, continue to play a positive and constructive role together, practice real multilateralism, and join hands in building a community for all life on Earth."

Ding emphasized that electric vehicles are a landmark product of the green and low-carbon energy transformation, and the EU's plan to impose additional duties on imports of Chinese electric vehicles is "typical protectionism."

"It is not conducive to the EU's green transformation and would undermine the global cooperation on climate change," he said.

Ding voiced his hope that the EU will enhance the consistency of its policies on environmental, climate, and economic and trade cooperation with China. He stressed the importance of avoiding economic and trade frictions that could delay the green transition process and urged against establishing green barriers that would interfere with normal economic and trade cooperation.

"The two sides should resolve trade frictions through dialogue and consultation. China is firm in its resolve to safeguard its legitimate and lawful interests," he said.

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Executive Vice President of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic in Brussels, Belgium, June 18, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

Sefcovic said China has a pivotal influence in global affairs, and maintaining good relations with China is of great importance to the EU. He appreciated China's strong measures and notable results in promoting green and low-carbon development.

He noted that the EU side is willing to deepen cooperation with China in areas such as tackling climate change and protecting the ecological environment, and to work together to ensure the success of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, thereby leading global environmental and climate governance.

He also noted that the EU attaches great importance to the development of the electric vehicle industry and is willing to properly handle differences with China through dialogue.

The relevant departments of both sides engaged in dialogue and exchanges on issues such as addressing climate change and protecting the ecological environment. They reviewed the outcomes of practical cooperation since the fourth high-level dialogue and discussed the next steps for collaboration.
Red Borneo is one of the most common strains of Kratom. It comes from the deep central Borneo forest, found on an island shared by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. Red Borneo kratom has a distinctive broad green leaf with red veins, hence the name.

You have come to the right place if you take kratom products or you intend to start using them. Like any other herbal product, you should get the facts to make well-informed decisions regarding usage and dosage.

Here, we debunk the most common myths and misconceptions you may have heard about red Borneo. Keep reading to learn more details about this fascinating plant.

1. Red Borneo Kratom Is Hard To Grow

There has been controversy about the growth of red Borneo kratom, which is said to take a long time to mature and is also hard to grow. This is a myth, as kratom is one of the herbs that thrive well in areas with less rainfall. Naturally, the herb grows on Borneo Island, which has an intense tropical climate. In the forest, kratom requires little or no supervision and comes out well.

If kratom is legal in your state and you want to grow it, get fresh seeds and ensure the area has an adequate supply of sunlight, soil, and water. The plant will thrive well, mainly if the environment has minimal human interruptions, as in Borneo Island.

2. The Quality of Red Borneo Kratom Is the Same

A common assumption when buying red Borneo kratom is that the strain remains of the same quality irrespective of where you get it. This is not true, as the quality of this strain depends on many factors. The first quality determinant is the type of soil in which kratom is grown. If the soil is nutrient-rich, chances are high that the red Borneo product will be of the best quality because it grew well.

Similarly, the presence of contaminants can significantly influence the quality of red Borneo. When buying kratom, its highly recommended to purchase one with a third-party testing label to ensure it has no contaminants that could affect its quality. Also, get the product from a highly trusted seller and check the reviews from past customers before buying.

3. The Strain Only Comes From Malaysia

Most people think of Malaysia whenever they hear of kratom and its products. Well, Malaysia primarily exports pure kratom to many countries, but it is not the only source of kratom. Red Borneo kratom comes from an island in Southeast Asia known as Borneo. Three countries share the island, and so the red Borneo kratom doesnt solely come from Malaysia. Indonesia has the highest share of kratom on the island.

4. Red Borneo Kratom Is Illegal

You may have heard that kratom falls in the gray area in many states, yet you have seen it in shops and stores around it.

Is kratom illegal?

The quick answer is it depends. Some states legalize the growth and use of kratom, while others have not. For instance, it is unlawful to use or have kratom in Indiana, Wisconsin, and Vermont. Similarly, some states, such as Arizona and Alabama, allow it, but its usage is regulated. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasnt found enough evidence of the therapeutic benefits of kratom, and thats why the products remain illegal in some states.

If you use or plan to buy kratom, research its legality to avoid getting into legal trouble. Outside the United States, kratom is illegal in Australia, Finland, Japan, and Poland, among other nations. The kratom legality rules may vary with time, so its essential to carry out regular research or keep up with the updates to stay compliant with the law.

5. Red Borneo Kratom Is Dangerous To the Body

Another common misconception about red Borneo kratom is that it might be dangerous to the body. Well, like any other natural herb, kratom may be helpful in the body when taken in the right amounts, and sometimes adverse reactions may occur. However, the product is not entirely dangerous, mainly when taken in the correct dosage.

You may notice common side effects when using the red Borneo kratom, such as nausea, dizziness, headache, sweating, and constipation, among others. However, the intensity of the effects varies from one person to another, and some people may never experience it.

If you are worried about your safety when taking kratom, get it from a trusted supplier to be sure you are using the best product. Also, adhere to the usage instructions, which may include the dosage and the use time for the best results. You may discontinue the products if it brings unwanted effects to your body.

Conclusion

The red Borneo kratom is a common strain of the Mitragyna Speciosa, which grows in Southeast Asia. Most users of this strain say it promotes overall well-being and may bring a feeling of relaxation. However, like other herbs, the red Borneo kratom may get some side effects, mainly when taken in higher amounts.

In this guide, we have debunked the most common myths, which include the legality of kratom in several parts of the world. Hopefully, our guide has offered the insights you need to make an informed decision when buying the Borneo kratom.
A police officer has been hospitalized after attempting suicide following the reported loss of his service rifle.

Inspector Charles Muriungi Koroneli, stationed at the Kariobangi South Police Post, reportedly consumed a pesticide at his residence in Rongai, Kajiado County.

Koronelis wife, Edna Kanyiri Kithure, reported that her husband returned home and informed her about the loss of his loaded Ceska pistol containing 15 bullets.

She stated that he appeared deeply distressed and couldnt explain how the weapon went missing. Shortly after, he excused himself and went to the washing area where he ingested the pesticide.

Upon discovering him in severe pain, his family rushed him to Nairobi Womens Hospital Rongai for urgent medical attention.

He suddenly moved to the washing area and took a pesticide (Ograno Phosphate poisoning). He was rushed to Nairobi Womens Hospital Rongai where he is being treated, a report read in part.

Police have initiated an investigation into the missing firearm. Search teams have been deployed to Koronelis residence and other locations he frequented to locate the weapon.

The appropriate measures have been taken, and search teams have been dispatched to his residence and places he has frequented, the report stated.
One hundred women entrepreneurs will benefit from a training program supported by the US Embassy to grow and scale their businesses.

The Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) Kenya program will provide these women with a 9-month training program and opportunities to explore international trade.

Shakaria Buckson, regional public engagement specialist at the US Embassy Kenya, launched the sixth cohort of the AWE program, outlining the benefits of this academy that began in Kenya in 2019.

We are particularly thrilled to announce that this session is sponsored by UPS, a company renowned for its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and global trade. This partnership is not just a sponsorship; it is a powerful collaboration that will open doors to new opportunities, especially in the realm of U.S. trade and export, said Shakaria.

She emphasized that the support includes mentorship and essential connections for scaling.

Shakaria also highlighted that this years cohort has received additional support from the global shipping and logistics company UPS.

At the event held at the American Corner Mtaani space at the National Library in Nairobi, Kenya, Ella Wafula, Director of Ushindi Empowerment, urged the selected enterprises to commit to confidently engaging in cross-border trade.

Since its introduction in 2019, the AWE program has empowered over 16,000 women entrepreneurs globally and nurtured over 500 female entrepreneurs in Kenya.

Notably, during this period, more than 20 AWE graduates have received grants from the USAfrica Development Foundation.
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Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), greeted visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Pyongyang International Airport, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Wednesday.

Kim shook hands with Putin and embraced him warmly, the report said.

The DPRK leader expressed his joy and gladness to meet Putin again in Pyongyang some 270 days after their meeting at the Vostochny Spaceport in September last year, the KCNA reported.

The Russian president extended his deep gratitude to the DPRK leader for coming to the airport to greet him.

The two leaders had a friendly chat after arriving at the lodging quarters Kumsusan State Guest House, according to the report.

Putin's visit is of great importance in "reliably promoting the strategic and future-oriented development of the DPRK-Russia relations," the report said.
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An Israeli reserve soldier takes part in a military drill in Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel, on June 18, 2024. [Photo/Ayal Margolin/JINI via Xinhua]

The Israeli military announced Tuesday that it has approved "operational plans" for an offensive against the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah.

In a statement, the military said Ori Gordin, commander of the Northern Command, and Oded Basiuk, head of the Operations Directorate, "approved the plans and held a joint situation assessment in the Northern Command" as part of preparations for the continuation of combat against Hezbollah along the Israel-Lebanon border.

The military added that "decisions were made on the continuation of increasing readiness of troops in the field."

The announcement came amid increasing tensions between the two sides, also at a time when U.S. envoy Amos Hochstein, during his visit to Beirut, called for urgent de-escalation of confrontations on the Israel-Lebanon border.

In his meeting with Israeli leaders on Monday, Hochstein also urged relevant sides to soon resolve the conflict along the Blue Line, the border demarcation between Lebanon and Israel, via diplomatic means, which he said would serve everyone's interest and is "achievable and urgent."

Tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border escalated on Oct. 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel the day before. Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon.
In 2024, nearly 12 million students will graduate in China. The number of people taking the national college entrance examination has reached more than 13 million, meaning a large influx of university graduates will be entering the job market over the coming years. Data shows fields such as technology, engineering and healthcare are experiencing robust levels of hiring, with many graduates securing positions shortly after completing their studies. Given the diverse number of career paths, experts say adaptability and lifelong learning are important. In colleges in Beijing, graduates are being encouraged to acquire additional skills and certifications to enhance their competitiveness in the evolving job market.

CGTN June 15, 2024




By Yan Dongjie

yandongjie@chinadaily.com.cn

Wang Kun

The fusion of agrarian and nomadic cultures in Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, where 900,000 hectares of grassland intermingle with farmland on the border with the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, has made the protection of the grassland ecosystem a key priority.

Northwest of Beijing, Zhangjiakous abundant grassland and its Grass Skyline, acclaimed as one of the 10 most beautiful highways on the Chinese mainland, attract millions of tourists a year.

But grassland is not only for admiring. More importantly, it carries crucial ecological functions.

Grasslands are the production homeland of herdsmen, said China Agricultural University grassland expert Wang Kun, who is vice-chairman of the Chinese Grassland Society.

They are also a genetic repository, serving as the foundation for the entire ecosystem of our country and the Earths ecological balance.

Furthermore, grasslands play vital roles in water conservation, soil retention, windbreaks and sand fixation, serving as a natural barrier and green Great Wall in the northwest region of China.

Wang based himself in Zhangjiakous Guyuan county in 1985, and established the National Field Scientific Observation Research Station for Grassland Ecosystem there 20 years later.

Over the past 40 years, more than 200 masters and doctoral students have engaged in research related to grassland protection in Guyuan, producing numerous significant scientific achievements that have made important contributions to grassland conservation worldwide.

When the cultivated agricultural land area exceeds 40 percent, the grassland ecosystem will be damaged, Wang said.

Through our years of research and observation, we have found that when the cultivated land area is between 30 to 40 percent, the ecosystem can be kept relatively healthy.

Due to reasons such as overgrazing, around 90 percent of Chinas grasslands degraded several decades ago, making the restoration of saline-alkali land an important topic in grassland protection, Wang said.

After more than a decade of experiments at the Guyuan research station, Wang and his team discovered effective methods, identifying suitable grass species for pasture restoration and developed over 100 patented technologies.

In the past, improving saline-alkali land mainly relied on engineering methods, which couldn't address the issue of excessive salt content in the soil, he said.

Therefore, we chose to plant salt-tolerant plants, especially salt-absorbing plants, to reduce the salt content of the saline-alkali land.

Wangs team has also improved corn into a forage variety with a yield of up to 150 metric tons per hectare, which is 10 to 20 times higher than other grass crops.

This effectively helps herdsmen feed their sheep and cows, without damaging the natural grassland, Wang said.

The methods have been successfully validated in Zhangjia-kou and are being promoted nationwide, with over a dozen provinces and regions engaging in similar work.

As summer approaches, sheep grass over a meter tall can be seen everywhere in Zhangjiakou, as high-quality pastures recover.

Once again, we can see the picturesque scene of cows and sheep grazing in the grassland, Wang said. Forests are the lungs of the Earth, while grasslands are its skin.

Wang said China has a grassland area close to 300 million hectares, accounting for around 30 percent of the countrys land area and making it the country with the largest natural grassland area in the world.

The promulgation of Chinas first Grassland Law 39 years ago  on June 18, 1985  led to the designation of June 18 as Grassland Conservation Day.

The Grassland Law has guided the development of grassland protection construction toward a path where laws are relied upon and adhered to, Wang said. The Grassland Conservation Day initiated by the Chinese Grassland Society aims to raise awareness among people to protect and develop grasslands.

Wang Ruiyuan contributed to this story.

China Daily June 18th, 2024




08:42

India has received 20 per cent less rainfall since the start of the monsoon period on June 1, with the rain-bearing system making no significant progress between June 12 and 18, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).





However, conditions are now favourable for further advancement of the monsoon into parts of Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, coastal Andhra Pradesh, northwest Bay of Bengal, Bihar and Jharkhand over the next three to four days, the weather department said.





India received 64.5 mm of rainfall between June 1 and 18 which is 20 per cent less than the long period average (LPA) of 80.6 mm, it said. Since June 1, northwest India has recorded 10.2 mm of rainfall (70 per cent less than normal), central India 50.5 mm (31 per cent less than normal), the south peninsula 106.6 mm (16 per cent more than normal), and east and northeast India 146.7 mm (15 per cent less than normal).





The southwest monsoon advanced into parts of the Nicobar Islands on May 19. It subsequently covered most parts of the south and some parts of the central Bay of Bengal by May 26 along with Cyclone Remal. It simultaneously reached Kerala and the northeastern states on May 30, two and six days earlier than normal, respectively.





By June 12, it had gradually covered the entire states of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana; most parts of southern Maharashtra and some parts of southern Chhattisgarh and southern Odisha; and most parts of sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim and all northeastern states.





"Thereafter, the monsoon has not progressed, and its northern limit on June 18 passes through Navsari, Jalgaon, Amravati, Chandrapur, Bijapur, Sukma, Malkangiri, and Vizianagaram," the IMD said.





The IMD reported that 11 meteorological sub-divisions in the country have received normal to large excess rainfall between June 1 and 18 while 25 have experienced deficient to large deficient rainfall.





The forecast suggests that the average rainfall over the country in June is most likely to be below normal (less than 92 per cent of the LPA). Normal to above-normal rainfall is expected in most areas of the southern peninsula and some parts of northeast India, while below-normal rainfall is anticipated in many areas of northwest and adjoining central India, as well as some parts of northeast India.





The IMD said in a May-end presser that the country could see above-normal rainfall in the four-month monsoon season (June to September) with cumulative rainfall estimated at 106 per cent of the LPA of 87 cm.





Below-normal monsoon rainfall is expected in northeast India, normal in the northwest and above-normal in central and south peninsular regions of the country.





India's core monsoon zone covering most of the rain-fed agriculture areas in the country is predicted to receive above-normal rainfall this season, the Met office said.





The monsoon is critical for India's agricultural landscape, with 52 per cent of the net cultivated area relying on it. It is also crucial for replenishing reservoirs critical for drinking water and power generation.





June and July are considered the most important monsoon months for agriculture because most of the sowing for the Kharif crop takes place during this period.





El Nino conditions are prevailing at present and La Nina may set in by August-September, scientists said. El Nino -- the periodic warming of surface waters in the central Pacific Ocean -- is associated with weaker monsoon winds and drier conditions in India.





La Nina -- the antithesis of El Nino -- leads to plentiful rainfall during the monsoon season. -- PTI





IMAGE: Children enjoy in the rain, at Malabar Hills in Mumbai on Monday. Photograph: ANI Photo


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Former U.S. President Donald Trump (Front) speaks to the media outside the courtroom during his civil fraud trial at New York State Supreme Court in New York, the United States, on Oct. 18, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Former U.S. president Donald Trump said at a campaign event that he would scale back aid to Ukraine if he is elected.

"I will have that settled prior to taking the White House as president-elect," said Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee in the November election, while speaking at a rally in Detroit, Michigan, on Saturday.

Trump also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, calling him "the greatest salesman of all time".

"He just left four days ago with $60 billion, and he gets home, and he announces that he needs another $60 billion. It never ends," said Trump, who has said that funding for Ukraine should be more in the form of loans, and that European nations should contribute more.

At the G7 summit in Fasano, Italy, on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden and Zelensky signed a 10-year bilateral security agreement.

The 10-year U.S.-Ukraine agreement, which is not considered a treaty and did not require congressional approval, could be discarded if Trump wins in November.

"If Trump is inaugurated at noon on the 20th of January next year, by about five after noon he could have dissolved this agreement in its entirety," said John Bolton, a former national security adviser to Trump, CNN reported.

In his first term, Trump withdrew the United States from the 2015 Paris Agreement on the climate and from a 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran.
The scientists also randomly assigned 250 of the study participants to receive one of three commonly used antidepressants or behavioral talk therapy. Patients with one subtype, which is characterized by overactivity in cognitive regions of the brain, experienced the best response to the antidepressant venlafaxine (commonly known as Effexor) compared with those who have other biotypes. Those with another subtype, whose brains at rest had higher levels of activity among three regions associated with depression and problem-solving, had better alleviation of symptoms with behavioral talk therapy. And those with a third subtype, who had lower levels of activity at rest in the brain circuit that controls attention, were less likely to see improvement of their symptoms with talk therapy than those with other biotypes.



The biotypes and their response to behavioral therapy make sense based on what they know about these regions of the brain, said Jun Ma, MD, PhD, the Beth and George Vitoux Professor of Medicine at the University of Illinois Chicago and one of the authors of the study. The type of therapy used in their trial teaches patients skills to better address daily problems, so the high levels of activity in these brain regions may allow patients with that biotype to more readily adopt new skills. As for those with lower activity in the region associated with attention and engagement, Ma said its possible that pharmaceutical treatment to first address that lower activity could help those patients gain more from talk therapy.

To our knowledge, this is the first time weve been able to demonstrate that depression can be explained by different disruptions to the functioning of the brain, Williams said. In essence, its a demonstration of a personalized medicine approach for mental health based on objective measures of brain function.

In another recently published study, Williams and her team showed that using fMRI brain imaging improves their ability to identify individuals likely to respond to antidepressant treatment. In that study, the scientists focused on a subtype they call the cognitive biotype of depression, which affects more than a quarter of those with depression and is less likely to respond to standard antidepressants. By identifying those with the cognitive biotype using fMRI, the researchers accurately predicted the likelihood of remission in 63% of patients, compared with 36% accuracy without using brain imaging. That improved accuracy means that providers may be more likely to get the treatment right the first time. The scientists are now studying novel treatments for this biotype with the hope of finding more options for those who dont respond to standard antidepressants.

Further explorations of depression

The different biotypes also correlate with differences in symptoms and task performance among the trial participants. Those with overactive cognitive regions of the brain, for example, had higher levels of anhedonia (inability to feel pleasure) than those with other biotypes; they also performed worse on executive function tasks. Those with the subtype that responded best to talk therapy also made errors on executive function tasks but performed well on cognitive tasks.

One of the six biotypes uncovered in the study showed no noticeable brain activity differences in the imaged regions from the activity of people without depression. Williams believes they likely havent explored the full range of brain biology underlying this disorder  their study focused on regions known to be involved in depression and anxiety, but there could be other types of dysfunction in this biotype that their imaging didnt capture.

Williams and her team are expanding the imaging study to include more participants. She also wants to test more kinds of treatments in all six biotypes, including medicines that havent traditionally been used for depression.

Her colleague Laura Hack, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, has begun using the imaging technique in her clinical practice at Stanford Medicine through an experimental protocol. The team also wants to establish easy-to-follow standards for the method so that other practicing psychiatrists can begin implementing it.

To really move the field toward precision psychiatry, we need to identify treatments most likely to be effective for patients and get them on that treatment as soon as possible, Ma said. Having information on their brain function, in particular the validated signatures we evaluated in this study, would help inform more precise treatment and prescriptions for individuals.

Researchers from Columbia University; Yale University School of Medicine; the University of California, Los Angeles; UC San Francisco; the University of Sydney; the University of Texas MD Anderson; and the University of Illinois Chicago also contributed to the study.

Datasets in the study were funded by the National Institutes of Health (grant numbers R01MH101496, UH2HL132368, U01MH109985 and U01MH136062) and by Brain Resource Ltd.
Tourists have once again started to throng the Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini considered the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, after two silent years prompted by the Covid pandemic. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled in the Southern Plains of Nepal, is gradually regaining its allure as religious tourism seems to have gained traction again has returned . "It was going great until 2019 when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. There were about 1.6 million visitors annually, with a strong presence of domestic visitors followed by Indians and visitors from many Buddhist countries - Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and China. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were few visitors; sometimes it was countable," Gyanin Rai, Senior Director-Administration at the Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) to ANI. "Currently, we have a rapidly increasing number of visitors. In 2023, we had about 1.2 million visitors. Especially from India, we have exceptional guests these days," he added. Lumbini welcomed approximately 70,000 Indian tourists in the first quarter of this year. As per LDT records, 19,360 Indian tourists visited the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site in January 2024, followed by 20,489 in February and 30,670 in March. These figures show an increase compared to 2023 when Indian tourist numbers stood at 61,122. "The birthplace of Gautam Buddha, Lumbini, is renowned worldwide. Nepal hosts and preserves this Buddhist heritage, which is famous globally. Knowing that Gautam Buddha was born here, all relics related to him are preserved here. Other countries have also joined hands for the development of this place. Hearing all these things, I had the desire to visit this place, and here I am," said Ashiq Jadav, an Indian tourist, to ANI. The number of tourists from other parts of the world has also significantly increased at the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, known as the Light of Asia. According to LDT records, during the first quarter of 2024, 11,668 tourists arrived from Thailand, 8,986 from Sri Lanka, 6,915 from Myanmar, 2,155 from South Korea, and 2,419 from Vietnam, most of them crossing via border checkpoints from India. In comparison, the numbers in the first quarter of 2023 stood at 7,760 from Thailand, 5,158 from Sri Lanka, 4,342 from Myanmar, 2,911 from Vietnam, 2,885 from South Korea, and 369 from China. "Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhist teachings, is a very serene and peaceful place where one can find inner peace, contemplate the beauty of the earth, and focus on the teachings of Buddhism," said Anisa K Mbega, Tanzania''s High Commissioner to India told ANI earlier, during her visit. Lumbini hosts numerous stupas that represent various nations, making it a hub of Buddhist studies. The Maya Devi Temple, the heart of Lumbini, is a major attraction for tourists. It houses the Marker Stone, the Nativity Sculpture, and the structural ruins associated with the birth of Lord Sakyamuni Buddha. The Marker Stone identifies the exact birthplace, while the Nativity Sculpture depicts the birth scene of Prince Siddhartha. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the structural ruins belong to different phases of the construction and restoration of the Maya Devi Temple over centuries. Emperor Ashoka, during his visit in the 3rd century BC, built a platform using burnt bricks to protect the Marker Stone and the Nativity Tree under which Mayadevi gave birth to Prince Siddhartha. The temple, painted entirely in white, was rediscovered in 1896 by General Khadga Shamsher and Dr Anton Fuhrer, who identified Lumbini as the birthplace of Lord Sakyamuni Buddha with reference to the Ashoka Pillar. Later, Keshar Shumsher excavated the early Maya Devi Temple mound and reconstructed it in 1939. The present-day Maya Devi Temple was rebuilt in 2003 by the Lumbini Development Trust. Buddha, born in the royal family of King Suddhodhan and Queen Mayadevi, renounced his palace at the age of 29 for asceticism. He is also revered as the ''Light of Asia''. Buddhist philosophy is taught at internationally acclaimed universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard. Additionally, master''s level programs on Buddhist philosophy are offered at Tribhuvan University, Nepal Sanskrit University, and Lumbini Bauddha University in Nepal. "We appreciate the surroundings and the environment of Lumbini. Lord Buddha was born here, and we come here to pay homage and bow at the place where Siddhartha (Gautam Buddha) was born. We are always excited to visit this place. It''s not just me; people from Maharashtra also aspire to come here," Indian tourist Hansraj, who is part of a visiting group told ANI while standing in front of the Maya Devi Temple. (ANI)
The incident occurred in Farooqabad city, near Pandour village in Sheikhupura, on Monday late at night.

Overspeeding of the vehicle is said to be the cause behind the collision, according to rescue officials.

The deceased members of the family were travelling from Amar Sadhu to the Gujjar Pura neighbourhood of Lahore to celebrate Eid-al-Adha with their relatives, when the unfortunate incident occurred, according to ARY News.

Following notification, emergency personnel and law enforcement officials hurried to the scene, moving the deceased and injured people to a hospital for legal and medical procedures, respectively.

In a similar accident that occurred on Sunday in Khairpur, at least five people lost their lives and 14 others sustained injuries when a truck overturned on the highway. (ANI)
Nasir Aziz, the spokesperson for the United Kashmir People''s National Party (UKPNP), said the ongoing protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir (PoJK), emphasised the community''s commitment to a peaceful struggle against the Pakistan government''s failure to address their issues. Despite long-standing loyalty to their homeland, residents are expressing profound dissatisfaction with Pakistan''s unfulfilled promises and exploitation of local resources. "For a very long time, the people from PoJK have been raising their voices at local and international platforms. Unfortunately, Pakistan has given no notice of their concerns. Pakistan has always promised to fulfil the rights of Kashmiris, but always betrayed them," Nasir Aziz Khan said in an interaction with Dr Shabir Choudhry. Since May, PoJK has witnessed massive protests organised under the Awami Action Committee, initially sparked by issues including, subsidies on wheat flour. The movement has since expanded to address inflated electricity bills and illegal taxation, uniting a diverse group of participants including students, lawyers, and political activists. "The people of PoJK have exposed Pakistan for the fake promises made over 76 years. She has only exploited our resources. The electricity generated in PoJK should benefit the locals, who deserve free electricity. Unfortunately, Pakistan has imposed numerous taxes on electricity," added Nasir Aziz. Despite attempts by Pakistani agencies to divide the people and undermine the movement, protests continued in Kotli and Mirpur, with plans to extend to Poonch and other areas until their demands are met. "Pakistani forces used bullets and teargas in Muzaffarabad that resulted in casualties, but the resolve of the protesters remains unshaken," Khan said. International attention is now focusing on PoJK, with UKPNP having submitted a detailed account of the Pakistani government''s brutal force to the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Nasir Aziz Khan highlighted the ongoing detention of political activists and called for their immediate release. Nasir Aziz further criticised the lack of democratic rights under Pakistani control, noting that PoJK residents are unable to participate in elections freely. "To file a nomination, the candidate has to take an Oath of Loyalty to Pakistan," he stated, underscoring the systemic limitations imposed on the region''s political freedom. As the protests continue, the people of PoJK remain determined to achieve justice and the fulfilment of their rights, with the world closely observing the unfolding situation. (ANI)
The ban is a preventive measure taken by the authorities, and beachgoers are being requested to comply and refrain from going into the sea.

According to ARY News, reasonable precautions are being taken particularly to protect the lives of picnickers who visit beaches to celebrate the occasion, officials confirmed.

The District South Police confirmed that officers are deployed at the beach to stop people from entering the sea.

Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) engages locale organizations to issue arranges in broad daylight intrigue that may put a restriction on an action for a particular timeframe.

Such a boycott is upheld by the police who enroll cases under area 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code for infringement of the boycott. Segment 188 conveys the greatest punishment of a half year in jail or a fine or both, as per ARY News.

Meanwhile, more than 1,200 people were taken to hospitals across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during Eid ul Adha holidays, primarily due to excessive eating and ailments related to it, The Express Tribune reported.

In Peshawar, 610 gastroenteritis cases were recorded during the past 24 hours. The majority of these cases were attributed to overeating and consumption of excessive meat, according to Mohammad Asim, spokesperson for Lady Reading Hospital.

Around 500 people were admitted due to traffic accidents during the same period.

According to Expres Tribune, in Punjab, the province''s six major public hospitals recorded a total of 2,200 patients during the Eid ul Adha holidays. Among these, 180 cases were related to gastroenteritis, diarrhea, and abdominal pain complaints.

Similarly, Jinnah Hospital in Lahore treated more than 130 patients, while Services Hospital, Ganga Ram, and Mayo Hospital each admitted more than 100 patients.

Medical experts have advised citizens to consume meat moderately and avoid overeating during Eid ul Adha celebrations. (ANI)
PNN New Delhi [India], June 19: As we celebrate National Reading Day, during team discussions popped up the point that while reading is perhaps the best habit, infotainment tool and social change vehicle, it wouldn't be possible without those who write. Pendown Press therefore decided to pay a tribute to the power of reading fuelled by the power of writing by celebrating and highlighting the remarkable contributions of our contemporary authors whose works have transformed readers and continue to inspire and empower them. This year, we honor six exceptional authors who have made a significant impact in their respective fields through their insightful and transformative books. 1. Nikhil Naik: Extraordinary Wealth- 7 Simple Strategies for Business Owners In this extraordinary book, Nikhil Naik provides a crucial wake-up call for business owners, not only emphasizing the importance of but also showing them how to make their money work as hard for them as they do. As the Founder & CEO of A D Naik Group, Nikhil specializes in building passive income and wealth management strategies for business owners and professionals that have helped nearly 4,000 families worldwide. His book dispels common financial myths and offers actionable advice to ensure that entrepreneurs' hard-earned money brings them wealth and gains, rather than falling prey to mis-selling practices in the financial world. 2. Shikha Kedia Bharadwaj: The Millennial Mom- Balancing the Messy Life of a Modern Woman Are you sick and tired of the regular old advice passed on from generation to generation? No more! Shikha Kedia Bharadwaj's The Millennial Mom is a refreshing take on the challenges faced by working mothers and is the gateway to a balanced life for every ''Mompreneur''. Combining wit with practical advice, Shikha, an award-winning entrepreneur and digital strategist, co-founder & CEO of Bit Quest, a global digital marketing agency addresses societal double standards and the importance of self-care. This book tackles a tough subject taking a light-hearted anecdotal approach to help millennial mothers strike the perfect balance between their careers, homes, and themselves. Shikha's book is a guide to achieving balance in life, making it an essential read for modern moms looking to thrive at home and in their careers. 3. Raakesh B Kulwal: The Passionate Life- A Blueprint for Achieving Success & Contentment Your passions are the roadmap to your destiny, follow them fearlessly! Raakesh B Kulwal's The Passionate Life is an inspiring guide to discovering and harnessing one's inner potential. Greatness exists within you and this book acts as a catalyst helping you uncover and hold on to it! Raakesh, a renowned expert in entrepreneurship, offers readers practical methodologies and personal stories that ignite a spark for living a fulfilling life. His book serves as a roadmap for those looking to follow their passions and unlock their true capabilities helping you ride the roller coaster of life from a different perspective. 4. Parveen Jagga: Ride Technology- Reap Profits Parveen Jagga's Ride Technology- Reap Profits is a crucial read for footwear distributors, dealers, and retailers. The book exposes the common profit-leaking mistakes in the footwear industry and provides practical solutions to stop these leaks, streamline inventory, and enhance customer satisfaction through technology-driven processes. Parveen, a successful footwear manufacturer and technology expert, has researched over 500 footwear entrepreneurs to devise effective solutions. His mission to make 10,000 footwear dealers profitable through integrated technology makes this book a valuable asset for anyone in the footwear business. 5. Dr. Manoj Kumar Gupta: Silent Epidemic- Unveiling the Burden of Deafness in India Silent Epidemic by Dr. Manoj Kumar Gupta addresses the critical issue of hearing loss, a condition projected by the WHO to affect one in four people by 2050 and 70 million people suffering from hearing impairment in India. Dr. Gupta, a seasoned ENT specialist, emphasizes prevention and awareness, highlighting that 80% of deafness is preventable. His book is a call to action to support the deaf community and improve accessibility to education and communication for individuals with hearing impairments. With his work & this book, Dr. Gupta is rewriting healthcare in UP and Bihar, with a mission of community care. His commitment to equitable, quality healthcare cements his transformative legacy in the medical field. 6. Meenu Gupta: Frames of Influence- Transforming Govt. Communication Through Videos Meenu Gupta's book is an invaluable resource for professionals involved in government communication, advertising, or media publicity. With a master's degree and diploma in journalism, Meenu is an accomplished strategic video expert who has produced numerous ad films, documentaries, and TV programs. Her captivating videos effectively convey brand messages, making her a highly sought-after professional in the media and communication field. Her book explores the strengths of video as a powerful tool in government communication, offering practical guidance and real-world examples. It is designed to help government entities deepen connections with their audience, increase employee productivity, and foster citizen trust and participation in nation-building. This National Reading Day, let us celebrate the incredible impact these authors and their books have had on individuals and communities. These remarkable authors and their books exemplify the diverse and profound ways literature can influence and transform lives. Their works not only provide knowledge and insight but also inspire us to strive for greatness in our personal and professional lives. By exploring their works, readers can gain valuable insights, practical strategies, and inspiration to navigate various aspects of life and work successfully. Happy reading! (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN New Delhi [India], June 19: Over the last few years, there has been increasing consensus between industry experts and recruitment leaders that a whopping 90% of the country's B-School graduates are unemployable. Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) elaborated that this is because of "lack of quality control and infrastructure, low-paying jobs through campus placement and poor faculty are the major reasons for India's unfolding B-school disaster." The other major problem is the outdated curriculum, which is still focused on teaching obsolete and theoretical business concepts with no emphasis on practical learning. A recent Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP (Deloitte India) campus workforce trends 2024 study went on to reveal that even attrition rates remain an area of concern among MBA graduates, especially among entry-level jobs for top-tier campuses. Both reports highlight the significant need for educational institutions to equip students with the multifaceted skills to succeed in today's dynamic market and tech-first business ecosystem. Unfortunately, traditional MBA programs are built and continue to be taught by academic scholars who can only impart theoretical knowledge of business principles. While institutions are attempting to teach practical skills through case studies, more often than not, these are insufficient to prepare graduates to thrive in the fast-paced world of business. Future leaders need to know the core fundamentals of business and develop a deep understanding of technology and how that can be leveraged to operate at 10x efficiency. Unfortunately, most MBA programs today are still too theoretical or archaic or lack enough industry exposure and real-world problem-solving, resulting in graduates who find it hard to get compelling job opportunities or lack the necessary job skills. The need of the hour is a practical-first, industry-integrated, and tech-enabled management program that tackles the challenges plaguing the b-school industry head-on. The recently launched Scaler School of Business (SSB) is offering one such program that is working towards bridging this quality gap. It is India's first business school built by industry leaders for future industry leaders, offering a meticulously crafted curriculum that mirrors the realities of modern tech and innovation-driven businesses. Scaler School of Business's full-time Postgraduate Program in Management and Technology (PGP-MT) offers a unique blend of theoretical rigour and practical application. Learners will benefit from industry-driven evaluations, case studies from partner companies, immersive internships, and exposure to trending technologies like AI and allied industries, making them ten times more efficient in their jobs and tech-enabled than the average MBA graduate. Additionally, the Scaler Innovation Lab, an incubator on campus, has been set up and will be accessible to SSB learners. This platform will allow them to build and present prototypes, products, apps, MVPs, and more, providing a unique opportunity to showcase their entrepreneurial and innovative skills to the country's top investment firms and raise funds to fuel their entrepreneurial dreams. These unique features of SSB are designed to hone the skills of learners and set them on a path to professional success. The program is designed for both technical and non-technical job opportunities, suited for working professionals with few years of experience or even freshers straight out of college. The founding cohort will have an intake of approximately 75 students, who will be handpicked and will commence in August 2024. The Scaler team works with more than 900 employer-partners internationally, including the top names in every tech sector like Google, Goldman Sachs, Amazon, Meta, Flipkart, Zomato, Airtel, Wells Fargo, PayPal and others, who regularly hire Scaler alums, and these existing relationships will be leveraged to help SSB learners build sustainable careers. Scaler School of Business's campus is located in Electronic City, Bengaluru, and the same campus also houses the Scaler School of Technology. This allows varied and unique collaboration opportunities between management and technology professionals and enables a wholesome learning experience for both groups of learners. For more information: https://www.scaler.com/school-of-business/ (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], June 19: The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) celebrated the momentous occasion of its 50th anniversary on 18 June with a grand celebration. The day-long event highlighted TERI's five decades of pioneering work in sustainable development, environmental research, and resource management, marking a significant milestone and setting the stage for growth for the next 50 years. The day began with the inauguration of the exhibition by R Mukundan, Managing Director & CEO of Tata Chemicals and Governing Council Member of TERI. Congratulating TERI, Mukundan said, "TERI provides an important platform for the Indian companies as the Indian economy is moving towards being the third largest economy in the world. TERI's role--in building the sustainable development discourse for the entire globe by enabling India to move in that direction--is going to be immensely important not just for India but for the entire world. TERI will play a pivotal role in this journey and we should work to enable TERI to gain more power and momentum in this direction." Nitin Desai, Chairman, TERI set the tone for the day with his welcome address with the walk down the memory lane, talking on how TERI was conceptualized. Dr Vibha Dhawan, Director General, TERI, delivered the opening address, which was followed by an inspiring keynote speech from Sumant Sinha, Chairman and CEO of ReNew. Speaking on TERI's remarkable contribution towards putting India on the world map, Sinha said, "It is a special occasion for an institute or individual as it shows longevity, sustainability, state power, and an inherent strength and vitality that one needs to have to have sustained for so many years. TERI's role in the context of the current world, as an organization of this stature, should focus on climate change, energy transition, carbon markets, artificial intelligence with respect to energy transition and energy mapping of what is happening on ground," he further added. The rest of the day featured a series of programme presentations covering a wide range of topics crucial to sustainable development. These presentations underscored TERI's multidisciplinary approach and its commitment to addressing various facets of sustainability. Welcoming attendees for the evening session, themed 'TERI's 50 Years: Gratitude & Growth' Nitin Desai, Chairman, TERI, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable development and urged the youngsters to be more forthcoming towards addressing the issue of climate change. Dr Vibha Dhawan expressed her views that TERI as an organization has been ahead of the curve. She shared the recommendations on the various topics which have been made to the newly formed government. Speaking about the commendable work being done in the area of carbon credits she said, "We will be distributing around Rs. 44 crore to the farmers towards carbon credit." Ms Leena Nandan, Secretary, Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), delivered a special address, recognizing TERI's contributions to environmental conservation. "TERI had started when no one was thinking about environment and sustainability. It had clear understanding of the path it had to traverse, aligning itself with the country's development goals." "Building on the strength of innovation of the country is important. TERI must set itself up to take on the startup and innovation space," she further added. Shri Suresh Prabhu, Former Union Cabinet Minister and Chancellor of Rishihood University, delivered the ceremonial address, highlighting TERI's role in shaping India's environmental landscape. "TERI has shown a way to implement ideas on the ground. TERI is the flag bearer of India and does us proud," he added on the commendable work done by TERI in the past 50 years. The event also featured the launch of the book 'Creating Impacts, Transforming Lives: Success Stories from TERI' commemorating TERI's milestones and contributions. Reflecting on TERI's journey and future aspirations, Dr Ajay Mathur, Director General of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), emphasized that TERI as an organization has always been conscious to undertake work that will have an impact. "TERI can provide a climate ready solution, which is the need of the hour," he added. He was joined virtually by Dr Saroj Pachauri, and Dr Shailesh Nayak in commemorating TERI's contributions and milestones. The evening concluded with reflections by Governing Council members and partners, followed by a cultural performance and a networking dinner. Dr Dipankar Saharia, Senior Director, TERI, extended a vote of thanks expressing gratitude to all attendees and contributors to TERI's journey. The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), based in India, is an independent, multi-dimensional research organization with capabilities in policy research, technology development, and implementation. An innovator and agent of change in the energy, environment, climate change and sustainability space, TERI has pioneered conversations and action in these areas for nearly five decades. Headquartered in New Delhi, it has centres in six Indian cities, and is supported by a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, sociologists, economists, engineers, administrative professional and state-of-the-art infrastructure. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PRNewswire Navi Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India] June 19: Global RegTech company, IRIS Business Services Limited (BSE: 540735) has received the prestigious 'Global Central Banking Award 2024' for Technology Services in London. The award was given by 'Central Banking', a renowned industry publication based in London. The Reserve Bank of India was also awarded 'Risk Manager of The Year' award at the same function. This is the third award presented to an Indian national/ Indian entity in the last two years by the magazine. Previously, Shaktikanta Das, Governor, RBI had received the 'Governor of the Year' award in 2023. Announcing the award, Christopher Jeffrey - Editor in Chief, Central Banking Publications commended IRIS and said, "This technology company has developed strong relationships from Bhutan to India and from Jordan through to Qatar. The CRILC solution built for RBI played an important role in NPA management as well." He added, "IRIS has helped central banks meet their supervisory goals with technical excellence, enabling them to secure timely, accurate and usable financial data." K Balachandran, Co-Founder and CFO who accepted the award in a ceremony attended by the who's who of the banking world in London said, "IRIS has been working with central banks for over 15 years. The pace of change that this area is witnessing, is unprecedented. As we receive this award, we renew our commitment to work to keep the financial system safe for all, considering that the work of the company today impacts nearly 1 in 5 people's lives, globally." About IRIS Business Services IRIS Business Services Limited is a Global RegTech company listed on the BSE (Scrip code: 540735) and the NSE (Symbol: IRIS). The IRIS Suptech suite is leveraged by 30+ regulators worldwide including business registries, central banks and stock exchanges/ securities commissions to simplify and streamline their supervisory operations. IRIS is a leading provider of regulatory reporting software solutions to enterprises, serving over 6,000 clients across the world. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2441714/Cofounder_and_CFO_IRIS.jpgLogo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2404308/4770772/IRIS_Business_Services_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL New Delhi [India], June 19: The tech landscape of India is changing at a rapid pace. From Chandrayaan-3 to UPI, the world has witnessed enough technological stealth of India. India is now in talks to build its first semiconductor fabrication facility, which is deemed a significant step from a research and innovation perspective. From 81st in 2015 to 40th rank in 2023, India has taken a huge stride in the global innovation index. All credit goes to our new-age startups in diverse fields, including finance. Recently, we have witnessed a disruption in financial markets with the implementation of the T+0 settlement. After financial markets, now is the time to disrupt accounting and the GST industry. With the launch of Munim - India's most high-tech cloud accounting software- the accounting and compliance industry has been disrupted. Now, we have launched a new product, Munim GST. "Being an entrepreneur, I know what difficulties a business faces, especially with startups, from sales, marketing, and hiring to compliance. I have been through all of them. However, compliance is the most complex because you know little about the nitty-gritty of taxation and regulations. Deep down, I knew technology could solve this problem. That's how I got the idea of Munim. After Munim's success, we launched a whole new version, Munim GST, which is particularly for accountants and CAs. We wanted to streamline their process. I believe this will lead to creating a differentiator among other GST filing software for professionals in the market." Priyank Savani, co-founder & CEO. Accountants, CAs, and tax consultants were finding it difficult to cope with businesses' demands. They required modern, fast, and secure digital solutions to scale their service businesses. That is how the idea of Munim GST return filing software came into existence. Earlier, the process of filing GST was tiring; there was no single-window solution that could make the process of filing GST returns simpler and faster. Subscribing to separate software for accounting and GST returns reduces the profitability of consulting firms. What makes Munim unique is its multipurpose capabilities. It provides features for accounting, billing, inventory management, and GST return filing. It reduces compliance service costs, and the cherry on the cake is that it makes the process of filing returns much simpler, faster, and free from errors. Features of Munim GST The following are the essential features of Munim GST: * All-in-one GST solution: Munim GST, enables you to file all different types of GSTR within a few seconds, not just for one or two companies, but 100s of companies. * Create/import multiple companies: Whether you want to create companies directly in this software or import data from any other software, Munim GST has got you covered. * Multi-user access: This product is specifically for CAs and tax experts; thus, this feature is necessary as they have assistants and trainees. * Live support chat: If you are stuck and don't know how to proceed, don't worry; in a few minutes, you can connect to our support team, and they will help you out. "We started from scratch. Now, Munim has garnered 10,000+ users, and 11,500+ businesses are registered with us. Every month, we add a whopping 1500+ new users. This data proves our product is top-notch and helps businesses streamline their accounting processes. For Munim GST, we are expecting a larger user turnout after witnessing the success of Munim's accounting software. Currently, our accounting software for businesses, as well as GST return filing software for tax professionals, are free to use. As we advance, we will introduce an affordable subscription cost for both the modules." CA Ajay Savani, co-founder & CMO. The support team is just a click away, and the best thing is there's almost no queuing time. We strive to maintain zero queue time because, being in the business, we know the value of time. We believe that with our diligent dedication and the quality of our product, we will be able to capture a larger market share. "Munim started its journey in October 2022; in the beginning, it had only two employees; now, the team comprises 30+ strong members with an in-house team of developers and quality analysts. Until now, businesses have filed 125,000+ GST returns. 10,00,000+ e-invoices and 8,000,00+ e-way bills are generated in total. This data signifies our strong growth story and the trust of our users. We are committed to serving our customers with innovation and integrity." CA Ajay Savani, co-founder & CMO. In the Munim GST module, users can file GSTR-1 and CMP-08. Later, Munim will allow users to file GSTR-3B, GSTR-4, GSTR-7, GSTR-8, GSTR-9, GSTR-9C, and ITC-04. We are also planning to incorporate some AI-enabled features to fast-track the compliance process. Munim ERP Pvt. Ltd. Website: themunim.com For support: support@themunim.com, +91 9898665536 For sales: sales@themunim.com, +91 9898661036 Social media handles Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@themunim22 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themunim22/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themunim22 X: https://twitter.com/themunim22 (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
 Flash

Chinese Premier Li Qiang said Wednesday that China-Malaysia ties are at the forefront among relations between regional countries, and have set a benchmark and an example.

He made the remarks in a meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The Chinese premier is paying his first official visit to the Southeast Asian country.

In the past half century, no matter how the international situation has changed, China and Malaysia have always been committed to sincere friendship, win-win cooperation and mutual learning, he said, adding that the relationship has been steadily moving forward.
A global investor in sustainable infrastructure, Actis will manage this fund to accelerate the renewable energy transition.

The fund will be invested in renewable energy, energy solutions, and sustainable transportation companies, the ADB release said.

"Several Asian economies are vulnerable to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and biodiversity losses. ADB's investment in the fund will help address these vulnerabilities by advancing efforts to build climate-resilient infrastructure and adopt climate-smart technologies in Asia and the Pacific," said ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations Suzanne Gaboury.

Under the initiative, the investee companies will get help in creating net-zero plans that align with the Paris Agreement and in committing to a credible pathway to reduce emissions.

Additionally, this investment by ADB includes the adoption of a gender lens investing approach to enhance the gender-inclusive practices of investee companies, the release said.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia-Pacific while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members--49 from the region.

ADB prioritises projects on basic services, critical infrastructure and services, and sustainability in Asia-Pacific. (ANI)
VMPL New Delhi [India], June 19: Choosing the right air conditioner can be the difference between peaceful slumber and restless, sweaty nights during the sultry summer months. Here's how to pick the right Voltas AC to escape the summer heat. When it comes to purchasing a big-ticket item like an air conditioner, we only want to trust the best. That is why millions of Indians place their trust in Voltas. As a leading air conditioner brand, Voltas has offered innovative, cost-effective cooling solutions for Indians since 1954. Functioning as a subsidiary of Tata Group, Voltas offers a diverse range of low-maintenance window, split, and inverter ACs that deliver superior cooling performance. Voltas air conditioners boast advanced cooling capabilities, including adjustable cooling modes, auto-swing, and turbo cooling. Armed with anti-bacterial filters, sleep modes, auto-clean functions, and self-diagnosis technology, Voltas air conditioners bring you the latest innovation in cooling at an affordable price. In fact, with finance options from the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card, you can split the cost further into easy EMIs. Read on to know more about how to pick the right Voltas AC for your needs, which models are the best in the market currently, and finally the advantages of using the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card to convert your AC purchase into No Cost EMI. Factors to consider when choosing the right Voltas AC * Room size: The tonnage of your Voltas air conditioner should be enough to cool your room. While 1 ton Voltas AC may be sufficient for a 100 square-foot room, bigger rooms require ACs with a higher cooling capacity. Therefore, it is essential to measure your room before selecting a model. * Configuration: Choose from window, split, and inverter AC options. While split ACs deliver more efficient and quieter cooling, window ACs are more affordable. * Energy efficiency: Evaluate the energy efficiency of the AC. Voltas air conditioners with a higher BEE rating offer better energy savings than ones with a lower rating. Also, the annual power consumption levels and ISEER ratings of the models should be reviewed. * Features: Voltas ACs come with a range of features including convertible cooling modes, dehumidification, self-clean technology, and dust filters. Prioritise features that meet your specific needs. * Noise output: Review the noise output of the indoor unit to avoid disturbance. This is particularly important for ACs intended for bedrooms. * Price: Set a price limit for your purchase. This price limit will help you filter options to ascertain the right tonnage, type, and BEE rating of the AC. Remember that Voltas window AC prices tend to be lower than those of the inverter split ACs. Best Voltas air conditioners in India 1. Voltas 1 ton 5 Star inverter split AC (SAC 125V Vectra Elite, white) This Voltas air conditioner features a powerful inverter compressor and multiple adjustable modes that adapt to your cooling needs. Ideal for rooms measuring up to 100 square feet, this Voltas AC is fine-tuned to cool efficiently even at 52 degrees Celsius. Moreover, this 5 Star split AC consumes 542.35 kWh of electricity annually, effectively balancing performance and power efficiency. 2. Voltas 1 ton 3 Star split AC (SAC123 Vectra Elegant, White) Designed to provide swift and durable cooling, this Voltas fixed-speed split AC boasts 100% copper condenser coils that offer long-term use with minimum maintenance. This AC features an anti-bacterial dust filter that eliminates dust particles and allergens from the air, keeping it cool and fresh. Additionally, thanks to the built-in memory and auto restart feature, the AC auto resumes operations with your preferred cooling settings after a power cut. 3. Voltas 1.5 ton 5 Star window AC (WAC 185V Vertis Elite, white) Voltas Vertis Elite is a top-selling adjustable inverter window air conditioner with 2-step adjustable tonnage capacities to ensure lower energy consumption. Equipped with a high ambient cooling capacity, this window AC also features an active dehumidifier that lowers moisture levels in the room during the humid monsoon months. The compact design and affordable pricing of this Voltas window AC make it a top choice for those who wish to avoid installation hassles associated with split ACs. 4. Voltas 2 ton 5 Star inverter split AC (SAC 245V Vectra Plus) If you are looking for a high-capacity AC to cool your spacious 200 square-foot living room, opt for this Voltas 2 ton split AC. Equipped with a robust BLDC motor, copper condenser coils, 5 fan speeds, and a wide operating voltage range, this Voltas air conditioner offers quick and efficient cooling. Moreover, with a low annual energy consumption of 959.19 kWh, this AC beats the summer heat without overburdening your wallet. Armed with 4 adjustable cooling modes, this AC balances cooling efficiency and power use to make operations more affordable. 5. Voltas 1.5 ton 3 Star inverter split AC (SAC 183V Vertis Emerald) Ideal for medium-sized rooms of up to 150 square feet, this Voltas smart inverter AC boasts 5-in-1 convertible cooling modes, bringing you customised cooling and optimised energy savings. This AC's unique Ice Wash function freezes and de-freezers condenser coils to keep them clean for steady cooling. Moreover, this latest Voltas air conditioner delivers silent cooling with noise output levels as low as 28 dB. Advantages of shopping using the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card * No Cost EMIs: Convert the cost of a Voltas air conditioner into No Cost EMIs using your Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card. Making easy deferred payments over 1-60 months helps ease your payment burden. * Zero down payment offers: No lump-sum deposit is required on select models covered under the zero down payment policy. * Exclusive offers and rewards: Enjoy exclusive discounts on Voltas split AC and Voltas window AC prices. Tap into cashback rewards to make your purchase even more lucrative. * Unlimited choices: Since the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card is accepted in over 1.5 lakh partner stores in 4,000+ cities, you can explore a plethora of choices without any hassles. Picking the right Voltas AC can be daunting, especially if you don't know what factors to consider. The above guide outlines key parameters and top-selling models to help simplify your quest for the right AC. You can also browse Bajaj Mall to shortlist and compare different models. You can shop for the shortlisted Voltas air conditioner on No Cost EMI using the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], June 19: foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME), one of India's leading talent platforms, announced the launch of the third edition of Aspire, India's largest virtual career fair for freshers and young professionals (with 0 to 3 years of work experience). The two-day virtual career fair starts today, with participation from over 2 lakh+ freshers & young professionals. With this massive pool of candidates, this exclusive event offers recruiters access to a sizeable talent pool, while providing job seekers the opportunity to interact with industry experts and connect with potential employers. foundit will also give candidates access to assessments and courses to help them stand out to recruiters. There are around 50 additional skill tests for various job functions, and these are proven to increase recruiter productivity by 25 per cent. Aspire's success has numbers in its favour with over 150,000 registrations in 2023 and over 141,000 registrations in 2022. This year, the virtual career fair aims to build on this success by offering even more opportunities for freshers and young professionals to connect with top employers and industry experts. The fair features active participation from companies across the IT/ITES, Product, Banking/Finance, Healthcare & Pharma, and Manufacturing sectors. Some of the hiring partners of Aspire 2024 include Genpact, Infosys, Mindteck, PNB MetLife, Quess, ICICI Bank and Eclerx. "We are thrilled to launch the third edition of Aspire this year," said Sekhar Garisa, CEO of foundit (previously Monster APAC & ME), "In a job market that is evolving rapidly, we aim to bridge the gap between recruiters and job seekers via career fairs such as Aspire. This aids our objective of leveraging advanced technology to ensure a perfect match between seekers and opportunities. This career fair not only keeps job seekers informed about the latest job opportunities and skill requirements, but also creates invaluable connections with top employers, empowering young professionals to launch successful careers." One of the biggest pain points of fresher recruitment in India is the mismatch in what the talent pool seeks and what an employer is ready to offer in the job market, which occurs when the skills possessed by job candidates do not align with the skills required by employers for a particular role. The hiring cost involved in attracting and retaining qualified candidates creates a volatile market for recruiters, making it tricky to navigate. To address these challenges, foundit also offers skill assessments. This innovative feature allows candidates to undergo highly focussed, gamified tests and helps candidates earn badges to enhances their visibility and significantly increases their chances of getting hired. By identifying skilled candidates and promoting upskilling, Aspire connects young talent with the perfect opportunities and sets them on the path to long-term success. foundit - APAC & Middle East foundit, formerly Monster (APAC & ME) is a leading talent platform offering comprehensive employment solutions to recruiters and job seekers across APAC & ME. In addition to AI-powered job search tools, foundit offers e-learning, assessments, and services related to resume creation, interview preparation, and professional networking. Since its inception, the company has assisted over 90 million job seekers across 18 countries in upskilling and connecting them with the right job opportunities. foundit is now also the Official Talent Partner of the Badminton World Federation across 20 key world tour events. Over the last two decades, the company has been a leader in the world of recruitment solutions and has recently launched a cutting-edge solution to give recruiters access to passive candidates in addition to active ones. With the use of advanced technology, foundit is seeking to efficiently bridge the talent gap across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies. Today, foundit is committed to enabling and connecting the right talent with the right opportunities by harnessing the power of deep tech to sharpen hyper-personalised job searches and offer precision hiring. Additionally, foundit has been recognised as a Great Place To Work, reflecting its dedication to fostering a supportive and dynamic work culture. To learn more, about foundit in APAC & Gulf, Visit: https://www.foundit.in| https://www.founditgulf.com | https://www.foundit.sg | www.foundit.my | www.foundit.com.ph | www.foundit.com.hk https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/student-hub/certifications (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL New Delhi [India], June 19: India's leading grocery supermarket chain, BuyBuyCart, has achieved a significant milestone. Today, the company announced that it has surpassed the mark of 100 franchise stores. This success is a testament to their commitment to excellence in customer service and high-quality products. From the beginning, BuyBuyCart has promised its customers the best quality products at the best prices. Their franchise partners have played a crucial role in fulfilling this promise. Co-founders of BuyBuyCart, Ashish Pandey and Sumit Kumar, said: "Surpassing the milestone of 100+ franchise stores is a moment of pride and joy for us. This would not have been possible without the continuous trust and support of our customers and franchise partners. We are excited to expand our franchise network further so that we can reach more customers and provide them excellent services. We are expecting to cross the mark of 200+ Franchise stores by the end of 2024" The secret to BuyBuyCart's success lies in its smart discounts, attractive offers and end-to-end store setup. Their customers enjoy a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience along with savings. In addition, the key features of their franchise model make it even more attractive: Zero Franchise Fee Zero Royalty Charge Software Support Licensing and Documentation Support Inventory Support Sales Support Online Order Support Employee Training Promotion and Marketing Support To celebrate this success, BuyBuyCart has offered its customers special deals and discounts. This is a unique initiative to make every customer in their network of 100+ stores feel special. BuyBuyCart is India's leading grocery supermarket chain offering customers high-quality products through smart discounts and attractive offers. Customers can easily browse and purchase products according to their needs through their smart grocery stores. Their customers enjoy a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience along with savings. BuyBuyCart's franchise stores are present across India and the company is keen to add new partners. The company provides all the assistance in branding, promotion, marketing, logistics, and more. If you too want to be a part of this success story and become a franchise partner, contact them today. For further details please visit the company website. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL New Delhi [India], June 19: Filecoin has initiated a strong rally, surpassing key resistance levels and showing potential for further growth. Meanwhile, Notcoin faces significant challenges with a 40 per cent drop, struggling to break above key resistance. In contrast, BlockDAG (BDAG) is making remarkable strides with its accelerated mainnet launch and the launch of Keynote 2. This has ignited investor enthusiasm, pushing price predictions to $10 by 2025, $20 by 2027, and $30 by 2030. Among bullish altcoins, BlockDAG stands out with its rapid advancements and strong presale success, underscoring its potential to revolutionise blockchain technology. Filecoin Rally Meets Key Resistance Amid Price Correction Filecoin (FIL) initiated a rally, reaching $75.00 before correcting lower. The price rose from the $52.00 support against the US dollar. Despite a recent decline, strong support is present near $60.00. A short-term declining channel with resistance near $67.00 has formed on the FIL/USDT chart. If FIL breaks above $67.00, it could surge toward $75.00. However, failure to clear this resistance might lead to a further drop, potentially testing supports at $61.00 and $60.00, with the next major support around $58.00. Notcoin Price Drops 40 per cent in Nine Days Notcoin (NOT) has dropped 40 per cent over the past nine days, emphasising the need to monitor key support and resistance levels. The 4-hour chart shows a bearish trend, with the Notcoin price following a descending pattern. On June 11, NOT briefly broke above the 100 EMA but failed to enter the Ichimoku Cloud, retesting and then dropping below the Ichimoku baseline, which now acts as resistance. This rejection indicates a continuation of the bearish trend. If the Notcoin price breaks the upper boundary of the descending pattern, it might test the 100 EMA again. With Bitcoin below $66,000, NOT could break crucial support at $0.014. Keynote 2 Highlights BlockDAG's Strong Market Position The launch of Keynote 2 has ignited a fresh surge of enthusiasm within the crypto community, significantly impacting BlockDAG's price predictions. Initially introduced in Tokyo, the original Keynote set a target of $0.05 by the official launch. However, with the unveiling of Keynote 2, aspirations have soared to $10 by 2025, $20 by 2027, and $30 by 2030. This substantial increase in investor confidence underscores BlockDAG's reinforced position in the crypto market. Moreover, BlockDAG's accelerated mainnet launch, scheduled four months earlier than planned, is poised to boost its price predictions. The completion of key developments, such as the Peer-to-Peer Engine and EVM Compatibility, announced in the second Keynote, has boosted investor confidence. With a successful Devnet phase and ongoing presale success, projections suggest daily raises could reach $5 million. This momentum underscores BlockDAG's potential to revolutionise blockchain technology, making it a highly anticipated event in the crypto landscape. The excitement surrounding its presale success is evident, with Batch 18 coins quickly selling at $0.0122 each. With over 11.6 billion coins sold, the total revenue has surpassed $51.5 million, highlighting increasing trust and dedication from investors. As momentum builds, these price predictions gain strength, reflecting the growing belief in BlockDAG's future potential. The Key Insights While Filecoin's rally and Notcoin's price challenges shape their respective trajectories, BlockDAG's accelerated mainnet launch and the unveiling of Keynote 2 have positioned it as a standout in the crypto market. With ambitious price predictions of $10 by 2025, $20 by 2027, and $30 by 2030, BlockDAG's rapid advancements and strong investor confidence highlight its potential to revolutionise blockchain technology. The significant presale success and investor enthusiasm underscore BlockDAG's growing influence and promise, making it a pivotal player among bullish altcoins. This momentum reflects BlockDAG's transformative impact on the cryptocurrency landscape. Join BlockDAG Presale Now: Website: https://blockdag.network Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL Cochin (Kerala) [India], June 19: The CII School of Logistics in collaboration with Amity University proudly announces its MBA Counselling Session 2024, which is scheduled to take place on June 21 , 2024. The event will be held at CII State Office, 92-93, 10th Floor, Abad Nucleus Mall & Office , NH 49, Kundannoor, Petta Road, Marudu P O. Cochin - 682 304, Kerala. The CII School of Logistics offers MBA in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, an Industry integrated full-time two-year programme that combines core courses of Logistics and Supply chain Management domains and the new-age disruptors such as Data Analytics, Information Systems, Ecommerce and Omnichannel Retail and Global Procurement. It's an Industry ready school, founded in 2016, boasts eight thriving batches of graduates. With campuses strategically located in Noida-Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The school's legacy shines through a remarkable 100% placement track record across all eight cohorts, CII School of Logistics got all their students placed in Global, Indian and MNC companies with Industries highest salary package. This MBA Admission counselling session will serve as a pivotal platform for fresh graduates from any discipline who are considering Logistics and Supply Chain Management as their career path. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to interact with seasoned industry experts and Faculties in the field, gaining valuable insights into both global and domestic trends. Such interactions will empower prospective students to make informed decisions about their educational journey and career aspirations. The Indian logistics industry, valued at an estimated USD 435.43 Bn in 2023, plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation's economy. With significant technological advancements, government impetus, and infrastructure growth, the sector is undergoing transformative changes. Furthermore, attendees will have the chance to glean inspiration from the success stories of alumni who have completed the program and are now thriving in reputable companies across various industries. Event Details: Date: 21 June 2024 Time: 9:00 Onwards Venue: Confederation of Indian Industry, Kerala State Office 92-93, 10th Floor, Abad Nucleus Mall & Office , NH 49, Kundannoor, Petta Road, Marudu P O. Cochin - 682 304, Kerala. Prospective students, industry professionals, and individuals interested in exploring opportunities in Logistics and Supply Chain Management MBA Programme are cordially invited to attend the MBA Admission Counselling Session 2024. For further information and registration, please visit. Students and their parents are welcome to join a campus tour starting today at our campus: * CII School of Logistics, F2-408 ,,Amity University Sector-125,Noida - 201313 * CII School of Logistics, Amity University, A2 Block, 4th Floor, Room No: 416, along the Mumbai - Pune Expressway in Bhatan, Post - Somathne Panvel, Mumbai, Maharashtra - 410206 * CII School of Logistics , Major Arterial Road, AA II, Newtown, Kadampukur, West Bengal 700135 For further details, please contact: Syam Sundar K S 9884160560, 9566026613 www.ciischooloflogistics.com (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN New Delhi [India], June 19: Established in 1994, IIT Guwahati is designated as an Institute of National Importance and has quickly risen to become the sixth member of the elite IIT fraternity. Driven to bring about the amalgamation of technology and creativity, the E&ICT Academy at IIT Guwahati, in partnership with Imarticus Learning, the leading edtech organisation for upskilling and professional education, has launched Advanced Certificate Program in Generative AI. Artificial intelligence has taken the leap with Generative AI. Given its ability to profoundly support human skills and expertise, it is built to disrupt the way we work, transforming the workforce of tomorrow. It is imperative that professionals not only understand the possibilities of Generative AI but also equip themselves with the knowledge to navigate inevitable organisational changes. The Advanced Certificate Program in Generative AI by E&ICT Academy, IIT Guwahati is spread over a course of 6 months, the program hinges on a renewed focus on skills that leverage human capabilities and automation. With 140 hours of training, along with 3 days of campus immersion at IIT Guwahati, the program provides a learning experience that will enable learners to pioneer new roles of the future. The program gives learners a deep understanding of Generative AI enabling them to build Gen AI models. This equips them to steer the organisation with vision, adaptability, and human-centric processes that harness the potential of Generative Artificial Intelligence. It also equips learners' with hands-on experience using industry-standard tools, live sessions with IIT Guwahati faculty and industry professionals, and access to IIM Jobs & Hirist, aiding in the process of job recommendations and networking. As an added advantage, all aspirants who enrol will also get an opportunity to access LinkedIn Learning for 6 months to strengthen their Generative AI concepts. Once the course is successfully completed, a prestigious certification is awarded by E&ICT, IIT Guwahati, showcasing the learner's ability to lead the transforming industry scenario. The Director of IIT Guwahati, Prof. Devendra Jalihal said, "At IIT Guwahati, we're pioneering a transformative journey with the launch of our Advanced Certificate Program in Generative AI in collaboration with Imarticus Learning. This initiative marks a significant stride towards equipping professionals with the tools and insights essential for navigating the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence." Mr Nikhil Barshikar, Founder and CEO at Imarticus Learning, added, "We are thrilled to join hands with the E&ICT Academy of IIT Guwahati to build a cutting-edge program that leverages Generative AI, tailored to the evolving demands of the industry. We are pushing beyond conventional limits to equip professionals, marketers, developers, and Gen Zs not just with skills, but with a visionary approach." To be eligible for this program, an individual must have graduated with a minimum of 50% in topics such as Computer Science/Engineering/Math/Statistics/Economics or have completed post-graduate studies in these fields. Prior experience in machine learning concepts and techniques is preferred among candidates. The Generative AI program is a perfect option for all Gen Z tech users and marketers who look forward to saving time with the applications of generative AI. The program employs seasoned experts who will mentor the applicants once they start their learning journey. Aspirants will get a deeper understanding of Gen AI in Text Generation, Image Generation, Audio & Video Generation along with data augmentation. By using the latest tools and systems, learners ensure their market preparedness by gaining knowledge and practical skills for real-world applications. About IIT Guwahati IIT Guwahati is India's finest research and engineering institute (7th among the top ten universities), with academic programs commencing in 1995. With 11 departments, 7 multidisciplinary academic centres, and 5 schools, the institute is a prominent hub for engineering, science, and humanities disciplines, offering a wide range of programs from BTech to PhD. IIT Guwahati is renowned for its world-class facilities, superior research capabilities and cutting-edge scientific instruments. It has even been ranked number 1 university in 2019 by Hackerrank and ranked number 2 on the basis of the research work that it carries out. About Imarticus Learning Imarticus Learning is a leading Edtech company in India, offering high-quality, industry-specific education via innovative technology, specialised training, career assistance, and mentorship from industry professionals. It has impacted over 10,00,000 careers within a decade through leading-edge curriculums, highly experienced faculty, and over 500 global partnerships with leading institutions and corporations. Imarticus Learning seeks to upskill existing and future workers to fulfil various industries' current and upcoming job market demands. Its objective is to provide learners with valuable learning experiences, educate them with industry-specific skills, and prepare them to take on multiple job roles in their sector. Imarticus Learning is renowned for its unique teaching methodology, including immersive live lectures (online and offline), peer-to-peer discussions, hybrid learning modules, industry-focused seminars, capstone projects, guest lectures, soft skills training, etc. It offers courses that prepare learners for successful careers in data science, analytics, finance, banking, and technology. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
The Ministry of Coal (MoC) said despite the extremely high demand for power, the coal stocks at Thermal Power Plants remain robust, exceeding 45 million tonnes (MT) as of June 16, 2024, which is 31.71 per cent higher compared to the same period last year when it was 34.25 MT. The demand for coal-based power has grown by 7.30 per cent in this financial year compared to last year in the same period. This is highest ever demand of coal, the Ministry said in a release. As of 16.06.24, cumulative coal production stands at 207.48 MT, reflecting a growth of 9.27 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year, which was 189.87 MT, the statement read. Coal India Limited (CIL) has recorded coal production of 160.25 MT, growing by 7.28 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year, which stood at 149.38 MT. Similarly, coal production from captive and commercial mines reached 33 MT, with a growth of 27 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year. The cumulative coal dispatch stands at 220.31MT as on June 16, 2024, with a growth of 7.65 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year which was at 204.65 MT. CIL recorded 166.58 MT in dispatches, growing by over 4 per cent compared to the corresponding period last year which was 158.91 MT. Coal dispatch from captive and commercial mines is recorded at 39.45 MT, with a growth of 30 per cent. Dispatch to the power sector stands at 180.35 MT, reflecting a growth of 5.71 per cent compared to 170.61 MT last year. As per Ministry of Coal the overall coal stock in the country (mines, transit, power plants) is over 144.68 MT. (ANI)
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired the first pre-budget meeting with leading economists in Delhi on Wednesday as part of pre-budget consultations for the General Budget 2024-25. The discussions focused on critical issues such as boosting capital expenditure and reducing the fiscal deficit. During the discussion, economists emphasized that the fiscal deficit will be further reduced in the upcoming budget, and the government is concentrating on policies to generate employment growth. "The government has shown fiscal prudence and has controlled fiscal deficit. This time, revised estimates also show positive indications. The government has already stated that the fiscal deficit will be lower in the budget. At the same time, employment remained an important issue of discussion" said Ashwani Mahajan, National Co-convener of the Swadeshi Jagaran Manch. On the demand for granting special status to some states, Mahajan added, "There's nothing on special status for states. The government is already doing a lot on capital expenditure, with at least more than 3 per cent of GDP being spent on it." Industry bodies, including the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), urged the government to increase capital expenditure in the upcoming budget. During the discussions, economists also highlighted on the need to boost capital expenditure. "It is very much in the discussion, that CapEx (Capital Expenditure) has driven or helped to drive the growth of the economy, which should be sustained. And private sector investment and consumption growth should also be sort of pushed to sustain this growth" said Nagesh Kumar, Director and Chief Executive of the Institute of Studies in Industrial Development. The meeting was attended by the Finance Secretary, and the Secretaries of the Departments of Economic Affairs, Revenue, Financial Services, and Corporate Affairs, along with the Chief Economic Adviser of India. These discussions with industry experts and economists are crucial as they lay the groundwork for the government's fiscal policy and economic strategies in the forthcoming budget. (ANI)
Actor Raghav Juyal, who plays a pivotal role in the upcoming action-packed film 'Kill', seems to have made a good impression on the makers with his performance. Ahead of the release of the flick, co-producer Guneet Monga revealed over 100 people were tested for Raghav's character, but he truly stood out with his ability to blend evil with humour. "We took 100 auditions and Raghav stood out to us. We were searching for someone who could bring an unusual blend of menace and humor to the role, a character who could truly captivate and terrify the audience at the same time. Raghav Juyal's audition was extraordinary; he not only embraced the complexity of the character but also added his own unique flair. He is the best fit for this role in 'Kill,' and we can't wait for the audience to see his performance," she said. "Raghav's performance brilliantly captures the essence of his character, blending humor with a chilling sense of danger. His portrayal will undoubtedly remind audiences of the iconic Joker, but with a distinct twist that is entirely his own," Guneet added. Helmed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, Kill, which made its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2023, is now ready for release in theatres on July 5. It stars Lakshya as the protagonist and also features Tanya Maniktala and Abhishek Chauhan. (ANI)
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Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on Wednesday signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement during Russian President Vladimir Putin's state visit to Pyongyang, RIA Novosti news agency reported.

During talks with the DPRK's top leader Kim Jong Un, Putin said the new fundamental document "will form the basis for long-term relations between the two countries," said the report.

Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said earlier that the new agreement would outline future cooperation prospects considering recent developments in bilateral relations, especially in the economic and security sectors.
Scheduled to hit theatres on October 18, the film promises to deliver another round of hair-raising terror following its predecessor's success.

In 'Smile 2,' Naomi Scott takes the lead as Skye Riley, a global pop sensation on the brink of embarking on a world tour.

The trailer hints at escalating horrors as Skye becomes plagued by eerie encounters with unsettling faces, culminating in a spine-chilling struggle against forces from her dark past.

Director Parker Finn, who also wrote the screenplay, returns to expand the universe established in his previous film 'Smile,' which grossed over USD 217 million worldwide, according to Deadline.

The original film, inspired by Finn's award-winning short 'Laura Hasn't Slept,' marked his feature directorial debut and garnered acclaim for its gripping narrative and terrifying imagery.

Joining Naomi Scott in 'Smile 2' are Kyle Gallner, Lukas Gage, Rosemarie DeWitt, Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Peter Jacobson, Raul Castillo, Dylan Gelula, and Ray Nicholson.

The production team includes Marty Bowen, Wyck Godfrey, Isaac Klausner, and Robert Salerno, alongside Finn himself, confirmed The Hollywood Reporter.

The first 'Smile' centred on Dr Rose Cotter, portrayed by Sosie Bacon, a therapist haunted by supernatural occurrences after a traumatic incident with a patient.

The film's success propelled Finn into a first-look deal with Paramount, setting the stage for the eagerly awaited sequel.

Lukas Gage, reflecting on the intensity of the filming process, shared insights into the sequel's production, highlighting its visceral impact on the cast and crew.

"That smile itself is just so creepy, and then you throw the most gory scenes on top of it," Gage remarked earlier in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, praising Finn's ability to elevate the horror genre. (ANI)
The Bombay High Court has allowed the release of the film 'Hamare Baarah' after the makers agreed to make some changes. The Bombay High Court had viewed the film and noted on Tuesday that it had nothing objectionable against the Muslim community. It had suggested changes to certain scenes. The petitioners consented not to oppose the release after the requisite changes are made. A petition was filed in the Bombay High Court to stop the release of the Annu-Kapoor starrer film 'Hamare Baarah'. The petition alleged that the trailer of the film insults Islamic beliefs. The Supreme Court on had put a stay on the release of the film and asked the Bombay High Court to decide the petition. The Bombay High Court bench said on Tuesday that they had watched the film and objectionable words and scenes have been removed. Fazrul Rehman Sheikh, the advocate of the petitioners, had told the media that the court was of the opinion that the movie gives a good social message. "A stay had been imposed on the film 'Hamare Baarah' because of the controversial dialogues in the film. The judges of the HC watched the film after which, they were of the opinion that the film gives a good social message and it is not what it has been projected as..." He said the High Court noted that that the trailer was very offensive. "Some dialogues have been asked to be censored... The order will be passed tomorrow after putting all observations in a consensus... The HC said that the trailer was very offensive and it should not have been released the way it was... The trailer and the message of the movie are drastically different..," Fazrul Rehman Sheikh added. The court also told the petitioner's lawyer that "it was wrong to comment without watching the movie. You are commenting by looking at the poster." The court also said"filmmakers they should also be careful what they put out. They cannot hurt the sentiments of any religion." Regarding the trailer, the court criticized its offensive nature and emphasized the disparity between the trailer's depiction and the film's content. Virender Bhagat, the film's producer, confirmed the removal of the contentious trailer. "The misunderstanding has been resolved. The judges watched the film and said that it is about women empowerment. The offensive trailer has been removed," Bhagat remarked in an interview with ANI. 'Hamare Baarah', jointly produced by Birender Bhagat, Ravi S Gupta, Sanjay Nagpal, and Sheo Balak Singh, is directed by Kamal Chandra. The film features Annu Kapoor, Manoj Joshi, and Paritosh Tripathi in pivotal roles. (ANI)
Actor Eddie Murphy is returning to his iconic 'Beverly Hills Cop' role four decades after the original 1984 movie wasn't as easy physically, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He talked about reprising his character, Detroit detective Axel Foley in the upcoming 'Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F', during an appearance on the Today show. "It felt like old man," said Murphy. "I did Beverly Hills Cop when I was 21, and I'm 63 now." He continued, "Now, I would rather not do any stunts. We were shooting something and the director said, 'I want you to come out of this place and run down those steps.' After we shot and he's like, 'Can you come down with more urgency? Faster?' And I was like, 'No!'" In the fourth instalment, which premieres on July 3 on Netflix, Murphy returns to Beverly Hills following a threat to his daughter's life. To uncover a conspiracy, he teams up with Joseph Gordon-Levitt, his new partner, and old pals John Taggart (John Ashton) and Billy Rosewood (Judge Reinhold). "I was like, 'I'm not doing anything action. Don't call me unless you offer me the same type of shit you would offer Morgan Freeman,'" said 'The Nutty Professor' actor. In 1984's 'Beverly Hills Cop', Murphy made his screen debut as Axel Foley, a man who travelled to California to investigate the death of his childhood friend Mikey Tandino (James Russo). He made two further appearances in 1987 and 1994. "Beverly Hills Cop was my first movie that I'm the lead in. If I travel overseas they call me Axel Foley," he said. "Axel is an everyman. He's not a superhero or a super-cop, he's the everyman that rises to the occasion. I think that's why people like it. And more than anything, he's funny," he added, according to The Hollywood Reporter. (ANI)
Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury said that two persons from the state sustained injuries in the train accident in West Bengal that claimed 10 lives. As many as 10 people were killed and 25 people were injured in the Sealdah-bound Kanchanjungha Express near North Bengal's Jalpaiguri station on Monday morning. The accident took place in the Phansidewa area of Darjeeling district. "Only two persons from Tripura sustained injuries in the incident. They are now stable and fortunately, there was no loss of life. The restoration works are underway in full swing. I have spoken to the office of the railway minister, and Chief Minister Manik Saha spoke to the Union Railway Minister," Sushanta Chowdhury said while speaking to reporters at the civil secretariat in Agartala. The Minister further said that the Kanchanjunga Express on Tuesday started its operation from Sabroom, the last railway station in Tripura, in the southern part of the state bordering Bangladesh. "No one ever thought that railway services would be extended up to Sabroom. Let's hope for the best. In the days to come, more express services can be availed of from smaller towns of Agartala," he said. The Minister also informed that the Tripura government has decided to fill up as many as 469 posts in different departments. The proposals for filling up the posts were cleared in the recent cabinet meetings chaired by Chief Minister Manik Saha. "Under the health and family welfare department, 16 posts of super specialist doctors, 172 posts of specialised medical officers, and 226 general degree medical officers will be filled up. The cabinet has approved the proposal and concurrence of the Finance Department has also been received. Apart from that, six food officers, the food and civil supplies department, and 49 fire service officers will be recruited. The total number of posts that will be filled up stands at 469," he said. (ANI)
Union Minister and senior BJP leader Piyush Goyal rejected speculations on a change of leadership in the party's Maharashtra unit following the party's dismal performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections. Goyal said that the BJP leadership has no such idea and no such discussion has taken place in the party's core committee meeting. There were speculations that Rao Saheb Patil would be made the state president. Earlier on Tuesday, a meeting of the Maharashtra BJP core committee was held at the BJP national headquarters under the leadership of BJP National President JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. According to sources, the party's central leadership has given a road map for the assembly elections in Maharashtra. The reasons for losing the Lok Sabha elections were also discussed in the meeting, they said. After the meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis told reporters that all such issues were discussed, including those that had impacted the Lok Sabha election results, and how to overcome those shortcomings in the upcoming assembly elections. Fadnavis said that the BJP will enter the fray to contest the assembly elections with full force. Union Ministers Bhupendra Yadav, Ashwini Vaishnav, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde, State President Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Pankaja Munde, Ashish Shelar, Chandrakant Patil, and Rao Sahib Patil were present in the meeting. During the meeting, Bhupender Yadav was appointed as the in-charge for Maharashtra and Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will be the co-in-charge for the state. The BJP dipped to nine seats in Maharashtra against 23 in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. The vote share stood at 26.18 per cent. The Congress, on the other hand, marginally improved its seat share by securing 13 seats in the state. The Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) won seven and one seats respectively, taking the total tally of the NDA to 17. The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackrey) got nine seats while the Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar won eight seats. (ANI)
Tripura Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury informed that as many as 67 retired police officers of the state will be recruited on a contractual basis for deployment in immigration duties at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport, Agartala, Indo-Bangla International Railway Station, and Immigration Check Posts (ICP) located at Nischintapur. Chowdhury, who is also the cabinet spokesperson, said that the proposal was approved in the meeting of the state council of ministers held on Tuesday. "Often, we are asked when the international flight services will be operational at MBB Airport, Agartala. The Ministry of Home Affairs has informed us that the required strength of CISF for flight operations couldn't be provided at this point. The Ministry has advised us to deploy security personnel from the Tripura Home Department for immigration duty. To ensure enough deployment in those posts, the cabinet has decided to give re-employment to 67 veteran police officials who are retired from service. The recruitment will be done on a contractual basis," the Transport Minister said. Further elaborating on their duty, he said, "They will be deployed in Agartala airport and Nischintapur railway station, which is the transit point between India and Bangladesh for movement of goods and passengers. Apart from that, they will also receive postings at the Sabroom Integrated Check Post. The total strength of the police officials who will be posted in these three locations stands at 85." The minister further said that the list of names of the officers will be sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs. "Once the Home Ministry approves the list we will send, we can proceed further on beginning the flight and railway services with Bangladesh from Agartala Railway Station and Nischintapur Railway Station," he added. (ANI)
This comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit, starting June 20 to the city to participate in the yoga event in connection with International Day of Yoga.

In the order dated June 18, Srinagar police stated, "Srinagar city has been declared a "Temporary Red Zone" for the operation of drones and quadcopters as per the provisions of Rule 24(2) of Drone Rules, 2021, with immediate effect."

The statement said that all unauthorised drone operations in the Red Zone are liable to be penalised as per relevant provisions of Drone Rules, 2021.

As responsible citizens, your cooperation is solicited in this regard, it added. (ANI)
Senior leader and Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has been made the in-charge and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma co-in-charge of Jharkhand BJP in the run-up to the upcoming state assembly elections. A meeting of the BJP's Jharkhand Core Committee was held on Tuesday at the BJP headquarters in Delhi under the leadership of BJP national president JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. According to party sources, the BJP central leadership has directed that they put all their strength into the assembly elections by clearing up the mistakes of the Lok Sabha elections. "Assembly elections are scheduled to take place in Jharkhand in November-December. Discussions were done on what the challenges are for our party and how we have to work for the elections," Jharkhand BJP chief Babulal Marandi said while speaking to reporters after the meeting on Tuesday. Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed confidence in the BJP forming a government in Jharkhand after the state assembly elections later this year. "Assembly elections are going to take place in November. Discussions were held on what was to be done in the next 5 months. The victory the BJP got in the Lok Sabha elections in Jharkhand has motivated us a lot and we are hopeful that we are going to form our government in Jharkhand," Sarma said. Organisation minister Karmaveer, BJP in-charge Laxmikant Vajpayee, former state president and Rajya Sabha MP Deepak Prakash, former Union Minister Arjun Munda and Union Ministers Annapurna Singh and Sanjay Seth were also present in the meeting. (ANI)
The flight landed safely in Mumbai around 10:30 pm.

IndiGo, in its statement, said that all the passengers were safely disembarked from the aeroplane.

"IndiGo flight 6E 5149, operating from Chennai to Mumbai, had received a bomb threat. Upon landing in Mumbai, the crew followed protocol and the aircraft was taken to an isolation bay. All passengers have safely disembarked the aircraft. We are working with the security agencies and post completion of all security checks, the aircraft will be positioned back in the terminal area," the airlines said.

Security was heightened at airports in Gujarat's Vadodara and Bihar's Patna after bomb threat emails were received by airport authorities on Tuesday.

The headquarters of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in Mumbai received a bomb threat email, police said yesterday.

According to the police, the unknown person "threatened to blow up" the headquarters.

Following the threat email, the police searched the building and said that they did not find "anything suspicious." The officials said that security has been heightened following the threat.

Earlier on Tuesday over 50 hospitals in Mumbai received bomb threat mail. According to Mumbai police, the sender claimed that bombs were planted under beds and in the bathrooms of the hospitals.

The hospitals that received the threat mail include Jaslok Hospital, Raheja Hospital, Seven Hill Hospital, Kohinoor Hospital, KEM Hospital, JJ Hospital, and St George Hospital, among others in Mumbai.

The police said that the sender had used a VPN network to send the mail, which was sent from a website named Beeble.com.

Upon receiving the information, a police team and bomb squad searched the hospitals but nothing suspicious was found.

The police said that they have registered a case and are looking into the matter. (ANI)
Upon receiving the information, fire tenders rushed to the spot and started dousing the fire.

The sanctuary, located along the Amritsar-Jammu bypass in Pathankot district, has dense forest and is spread over 1,867 acres. The sanctuary is home to several species of deer, including cheetal, sambar, hog deer and barking deer.

Due to the intense heat of this summer season, the incidence of forest fires in the North India region has been on the rise.

On June 16, a fire broke out in the forests of Solan in Himachal Pradesh.

The Himachal Pradesh forest department recorded over 1,500 forest fire incidents in the state this year.

As per data available from the department, over 13,000 hectares of forest land have been damaged in fire incidents reported during the past 50 days. The fire season in the hill state starts from April 15 to June 30.

On June 13, four firefighters lost their lives and four others sustained serious injuries while battling a fierce blaze in the Binsar forest in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, said forest officials.

Manoj Sanwal, Ranger of the Forest Department, said that due to the strong wind, the devastating incident took place. (ANI)
The meeting by the Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) MP was held on Tuesday.

Over the past week, landslides have left at least nine people dead and 1,200-1,400 tourists stranded in the Mangan district.

Meanwhile, Troops from the Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army, along with the civil administration, undertook the rescue of tourists stranded in North Sikkim according to a statement by the Indian Army.

The evacuation of over 1200 tourists stranded in North Sikkim between June 12-13 had commenced on June 17. Due to the large number of landslides, tourists are being moved on foot and by vehicle in stretches wherever connectivity exists, the Army said

Working under challenging weather and terrain conditions, the signallers of the Indian Army helped BSNL and Airtel restore mobile connectivity on June 18, it said.

Since June 12, the Indian Army said it had installed more than half a dozen telephone booths to facilitate locals and tourists connecting with their relatives

Medical teams have set up medical aid booths and have been providing medical care to needy residents and tourists.

So far, more than 115 people have been provided with medical attention, including a lifesaving emergency distress call of a 24-year-old at Lachung suffering from High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, it said.

All the needy people have been provided with the basic requirements of rations and other logistics support to sustain themselves in this critical time, it added further.

As per official estimates, a total of nine people -three from Yangang and six from Mangan have been killed since June 12. (ANI)
Security forces continue a search operation in the Maraha Forest area in the Bufliaz Sector of Poonch district after gunshots were heard in the area on Tuesday. This comes after an exchange of fire occurred between security forces and terrorists in the Poonch district of J-K on Tuesday, according to an official. "A cordon and search operation was initiated by security forces in the Poonch district based on specific information about terrorists in the area. There was an exchange of fire between the terrorists and the security forces," said J-K Police on Tuesday. Further details of the incident are awaited. On June 9, a bus ferrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district was attacked by terrorists in Teryath village in the Pouni area of Reasi district, bordering Rajouri district. The bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge after the terrorist attack, leaving at least nine people dead and 33 others injured. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the Reasi terror attack case in Jammu and Kashmir and started a thorough inquiry into it to unearth the underlying conspiracy behind the attack that raised concerns over security situations in the Union Territory, officials said on Monday. The anti-terror agency took over the case from Jammu and Kashmir Police on June 15 and filed a fresh First Information Report (FIR) following Ministry of Home Affairs' orders taking cognisance of the gravity of the incident as the attackers targeted the bus on June 9 evening -- the day when the whole Union Cabinet was taking oath, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. A day after the attack, a team from the NIA also visited the spot to support local police and evaluate the ground situation. The NIA, India's premier counter-terrorism agency, often collaborates with state police to address high-profile and sensitive cases as part of its routine affair in terror attack cases. The NIA's involvement was expected to enhance the investigation and ensure a thorough examination of the evidence. (ANI)
In a big jolt to Congress ahead of the assembly polls in the state, the party''s prominent Haryana leaders, Kiran Choudhry and her daughter Shruti Choudhry, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday. Both the leaders joined the BJP in a ceremony at the party headquarters in New Delhi in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, former CM and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, and the BJP''s National General Secretary, Tarun Chugh. After joining the BJP, Kiran Choudhry said, "Today I took this decision because of Prime Minister, who has pledged a developed India by 2047. I have full faith that India will shine in the world. The public welfare work done by the Prime Minister has led to the formation of a BJP government in Delhi for the third time. I have worked a lot with Khattar ji. There used to be a lot of bitterness between us. But the way he worked has been my source of inspiration." "The way he (Khattar) has worked honestly for the welfare of the people is commendable. Today we will take the BJP flag and in the coming times we will form a BJP government in Haryana for the third time," the sitting MLA and former Haryana minister added. Notably, Kiran Choudhry is the daughter-in-law of former Haryana chief minister Bansi Lal. Her daughter, Shruti, who also joined the BJP, said that they will work to strengthen the county and the state. "The Prime Minister has taken historic decisions for our country. Due to this, India''s reputation has shined even more in the whole world. I have come here taking inspiration from Khattar ji. It is a matter of pride for us that Modi ji and Khattar ji have worked with Chaudhary Bansi Lal ji. The way Bansi Lal worked hard, we are joining the BJP with the same hard work. Today we are joining BJP so that we can strengthen the country and the state," Shruti Choudhry said. Yesterday, the former MP from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh constituency has tendered her resignation as a Primary Member of Congress and also from the post of the Working President of the Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee. Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said that it is a historic day that two prominent Congress leaders joined the BJP. "Today is a very historic day...Today, two prominent personalities are in the party, who have worked in Congress for many years...I have known Kiran ji since the time we worked with Bansi Lal ji...Kiran ji and I used to sit face to face in the assembly, " Khattar said. Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini said, "Today, senior Congress leaders Kiran Chaudhary and Shruti Chaudhary decided to join the BJP, I welcome them. We will work to strengthen Haryana." (ANI)
Amid a political tug-of-war over the water crisis in the national capital, Aam Aadmi Party Minister Atishi said on Wednesday that if Delhi does not get its rightful share of water by June 21, she will be forced to do a 'Satyagraha'. "Today I have written a letter to the Prime Minister saying that 28 lakh people in Delhi are not getting water. I have requested that he should help provide water as soon as possible...If the people of Delhi do not get their rightful share of water by the 21st, then I will be forced to do a Satyagraha," Atishi said in a press conference. "Due to the scorching heat, the water problem in Delhi has also increased. Today, Delhiites need more water. The total supply of water in Delhi is 1050 MGD, out of which 613 MGD water comes from Haryana but Haryana is not giving the full share of water to Delhi," she alleged further. The Delhi Minister also mentioned that due to the shortage of water released from the Haryana side, 28 lakh people are getting less water in Delhi. "Haryana gave only 513 MGD of water to Delhi yesterday. Due to this, Delhi is short of 100 MGD of water today. Due to this, about 28 lakh people are getting less water. The people of Delhi are troubled. We have made all efforts to solve this problem. We have spoken to the Chief Minister of Haryana, but the BJP government of Haryana is not giving Delhi its share of water," Atishi said. Earlier on June 18, to address the severe water shortage in the national capital, a high-level delegation of officials from the Delhi Government was convened with the Principal Secretary (Water Resources) of the Haryana Government. The Delhi Government solicited additional release of water to Delhi from the Haryana government. This meeting took place in Chandigarh on Tuesday. BJP is holding protests in different areas of the National Capital against the water crisis for three days. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva and former MP Ramesh Bidhuri were seen leading the protest against the Aam Aadmi Party over the shortage of water. (ANI)
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the "unfortunate" denial of political clearance by the External Affairs Ministry to Kerala Health Minister Veena George to travel to Kuwait in the background of the fire tragedy. At least 45 Indians, including 23 from Kerala alone, were killed in the fire incident at a labour accommodation in Kuwait's Mangaf on June 12. Calling the denial "extremely unfortunate," the CM said that the request amply falls within the purview of compelling circumstances, and non-consideration of the same goes against the principles of cooperative federalism, in which the Union and the States are equal partners in the pursuit of development as well as in mitigation efforts when our people face disasters and calamities. He said that the collective decision of the State Cabinet has been disregarded. "I wish to bring before your good self the fact that, being the tier of government close to the people, the state government gets the grievances of the people first. Considering the gravity of the situation, it was decided by the Council of Ministers of Kerala to depute a cabinet minister to Kuwait. Her presence in Kuwait would have substantially helped in liaising with the Union Minister of State for External Affairs, the team of officials, and the Embassy. This could have provided mental relief and confidence to the families of those who were affected by the unforeseen tragedy," the Kerala CM said in his letter. He further emphasised that no political or other considerations should come in the way of issuing political clearances in such situations. "A decision taken should not even appear to convey such a bias", he wrote. CM Vijayan requested PM Modi to advise the Ministry for External Affairs to be more responsive to such requests in the future, as the goodwill between the Union and the States is a crucial determinant for creating an environment of healthy cooperative federalism. He also added that the state government appreciates the steps taken by the Ministry of External Affairs in light of the tragedy. (ANI)
A convict who did not return to prison after the end of his parole during the Covid situation in April 2020 was captured by Delhi Police in the national capital, officials said. The absconding criminal, identified as Shree Bhagwan, 40, a native of Chapra in Bihar was sentenced to life imprisonment in a sensational kidnapping and rape case involving a 5-year-old minor girl. A case under sections 363 and 376 of the Indian Penal Code was registered against him at the Bawana Police Station in Delhi on the complaint of a father of the minor, who alleged that she was raped and kidnapped by Bhagwan. According to the police, the rape survivor was known to Bhagwan. A court in Delhi found Bhagwan guilty and convicted him of life imprisonment. He was released on parole in April 2020 due to the COVID-19 situation. However, he did not surrender to jail on his due date of February 2021. On receiving information from jail authorities and seeing the gravity of the case, a dedicated police team was constituted to nab him. The police team found that the accused's family was not living at the Bawana address provided by him and had shifted to an unknown place, said the police. Police personnel visited several JJ colonies in the city but were unsucceful in tracing the convict's whereabouts. Finally, a contractor identified the photo of the accused and informed police that the latter could be found at a labour chowk, near Lokesh Cinema in Nangloi area of the national capital. Accordingly, the team traced him and nabbed on June 11 him by posing as 'Thekedar'/contractor who hired labourers. On interrogation, he revealed that in 2012, he used to live in JJ Colony Bawana and had enticed the 5-year-old victim on the pretext of giving her 'Jujube' (a type of fruit) and raped her. He said that after jumping parole he started working as a construction labourer and kept changing his address. He lived on rent with his family and to prevent being tracked did not use a mobile phone. (ANI)
Kiran Choudhry was "treated unfairly" in the party, said senior Congress leader and Sirsa MP Kumari Selja after the sitting MLA along with her daughter joined the BJP in the national capital on Wednesday. Kiran Choudhry, MLA from Tosham, which falls under the Bhiwani district, along with her daughter Shruti, the former MP from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh constituency, has resigned from the primary membership of the Congress on Tuesday. Shruti was also the working president of the Haryana unit of the Congress. Selja said, "It is sad. She (Kiran) has been a veteran leader of the party. She had taken Bansi Lal's politics forward. This will harm the party. Her daughter was not given the ticket, this could be the reason for her leaving. I say that if Shruti had gotten the ticket, she would have won with a huge majority. I don't know the reason behind her leaving but she (Kiran) has been treated unfairly." Notably, Kiran Choudhry is the daughter-in-law of former Haryana chief minister Bansi Lal. However, Haryana Congress president Udai Bhan said that the exit of Kiran Choudhry will not affect the Congress at all. "No this isn't affecting Congress at all...she said that Congress has no future in Haryana so she is going there where she thinks her future is secured...she left because her daughter was not given a ticket...this has nothing to do with ideology," he said. Congress Assandh MLA, Shamsher Singh Gogi also termed her exit "unfortunate", asserting that the party leadership must find a solution to it. "I feel sad and I also regret. She was in Congress, her whole life and has also struggled...if she had some issues, she should have met the high command. High command also needs to seriously take cognizance of such incidents...it is the duty of our leadership to find a solution to this...this is my personal opinion. I don't know what happened exactly but something has happened...this is very unfortunate," Gogi said. Meanwhile, former Minority Affairs Minister and BJP leader, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi slammed the Congress and said, "This time the public gave a bigger mandate to Congress than the last time. But along with this, their ego has also increased. There is silence at their entry gate and a huge crowd at the exit gate." In the last parliamentary elections, the Congress had won five Lok Sabha seats out of 10 in Haryana against none in 2019. Meanwhile, Kiran Choudhry, after joining the BJP, claimed that for a few years, Haryana Congress has become an "individual-centric party." "I was a very dedicated worker of the Congress. I dedicated my life to Congress with hard work. But for a few years, I watched the Haryana Congress become an individual-centric party. They didn't want Congress to go ahead and follow such policies. So, you can understand that Congress would have never progressed in Haryana. Big leaders quit the party due to them...I took this step to ensure that my workers get their due rights, equal rights," she said. (ANI)
The Rouse Avenue court on Wednesday extended the judicial custody of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and another accused Vinod Chauhan till July 3 in a money laundering case related to the Delhi Excise policy. Judge Nyay Bindu extended the judicial custody of both the accused after hearing the submissions of Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) N K Matta and the Investigation Officer. Both were produced before the court through video conferencing from Tihar Jail after the expiry of their judicial custody. The court asked why the extension of judicial custody is required. Counsel for ED submitted that Vinod Chauhan received Rs 25 crore from the Personal Assistant of K Kavitha through Abhishek Boinpally for the Goa election. During the hearing, the Investigation officer informed the court that Rs 25 crore is part of the Rs 100 crore money trail. Till now Rs 45 crore money trail has been traced. The Court said that it means that 60 per cent is still untraced. The IO also said that an investigation is going on against Vinod Chauhan. A prosecution complaint will be filed against him by the end of this month. He was arrested in May. The court was informed that a prosecution complaint had already been filed against Arvind Kejriwal on May 17. It is reserved for orders on cognizance and listed on July 9. The court was also informed that Chauhan is the person who handled Rs 25 Crore. A prosecution complaint in the form of an eighth Supplementary charge sheet will be filed by the ED by the end of this month. Arvind kejriwal was arrested by the ED on March 21. A prosecution complaint was already filed on May 17. In total, there are 38 accused in the ED case including former minister Manish Sisodia. (ANI)
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) on Tuesday nabbed a 24-year-old man who was travelling on a passport issued in the name of a 67-year-old man, at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. According to the CISF, on June 18, at about 5:20 p.m., on the basis of profiling and behaviour detection, CISF surveillance and intelligence staff at IGI Airport intercepted a passenger in the check-in area of Terminal 3. On inquiry, he revealed his identity as Rashvindar Singh Sahota, date of birth, February 2, 1957, PP No. 438851 (Indian), bound for Canada by Air Canada flight No. AC 043/STD 2250 hrs. However, upon examining his passport, discrepancies were noticed. His appearance, voice, and skin texture seemed significantly younger than the details provided in the passport. Closer observation revealed that he had dyed his hair and beard white and was wearing glasses to appear older. Due to these suspicions, he was taken to the random checking point in the departure area for a thorough search. During the inspection of his mobile phone, a soft copy of another passport in the name of Guru Sewak Singh, date of birth June 10, 2000, with passport number V4770942, was found. Upon further inquiry, the passenger admitted that his real name is Guru Sewak Singh and that he is 24 years old, travelling on a passport issued in the name of Rashvindar Singh Sahota, aged 67 years. As the case involved a forged passport and impersonation, the passenger and his belongings was handed over to Delhi Police for legal action in the matter. The vigilance and keen observation of the CISF personnel were crucial in intercepting the individual and preventing potential misuse of travel documents. (ANI)
Jammu and Kashmir police on Wednesday said that the police arrested one person in connection with the Reasi terror attack which left at least nine persons dead and 33 others injured. Earlier on June 17, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) took over the Reasi terror attack case in Jammu and Kashmir and started a thorough inquiry into it to unearth the underlying conspiracy behind the attack that raised concerns over security situations in the Union Territory. The anti-terror agency took over the case from Jammu and Kashmir Police on June 15 and filed a fresh First Information Report (FIR) following Ministry of Home Affairs' orders issued taking cognisance of the gravity of the incident as the attackers targeted a bus carrying pilgrims on June 9 evening -- the day when the whole Union Cabinet was taking oath, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi. The bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge after the terrorist attack in Reasi district in Jammu and Kashmir on June 9 evening, leaving at least nine persons dead and 33 others injured. A day after the attack, a team from the NIA also visited the spot to support local police and evaluate the ground situation. The NIA's forensic team had also visited the site, contributing to the collection of evidence. The NIA, India's premier counter-terrorism agency, often collaborates with state police to address high-profile and sensitive cases as part of its routine affair in terror attack cases. The terrorists attacked the bus when it was coming from the Ransoo area of the Reasi district. Police had said the bus was ferrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district and came under attack in Teryath village in Pouni area of Reasi district, bordering Rajouri district, at about 6.10 pm on June 9. (ANI)
China opposes U.S.' illegal unilateral sanctions on Venezuela: spokesperson

Xinhua) 09:17, June 19, 2024

BEIJING, June 18 (Xinhua) -- China opposes the illegal unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States on Venezuela, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday, urging the U.S. to immediately and completely stop interfering in Venezuela's internal affairs.

Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked to comment on the Venezuelan government's statement strongly condemning the U.S. authorities' process of "seizure of Citgo Petroleum Corporation," a subsidiary of the state-owned PDVSA based in the U.S. that specializes in crude oil refining and fuel distribution in U.S. territory.

The statement said that "the forced sale constitutes a new episode of the multifaceted aggression executed by the institutions of the United States against Venezuela."

China has always firmly upheld the UN Charter and basic norms governing international relations, Lin said, noting that China opposes the illegal unilateral sanctions and the long-arm jurisdiction imposed by the United States on Venezuela.

The United States should fully abolish illegal unilateral sanctions against Venezuela, and do more things that are conducive to the peace, stability and development of Venezuela and other countries, the spokesperson said.

(Web editor: Wu Chaolan, Liang Jun)
High surface temperatures are impacting flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, resulting in flight delays. A senior official in the Ministry of Civil Aviation said that flight operations have been impacted because of high temperatures and following safety guidelines. Flights get delayed sometimes or wait for the wind speed to settle down. Another senior official with a domestic airline said that during high temperatures, the air becomes thin. Aircraft require lift to take off and lift is affected by the density of the surrounding air. The effects of hot air are felt most during takeoff and the initial climb. Sometimes passengers might feel mid-air turbulence due to this reason. "In extreme weather conditions like high temperatures and wind speeds, we proceed only after clearance from the Air Traffic Control, (ATC)," said the official. The other alternate is to adjust operations by reducing fuel or baggage and, in some cases, shedding passengers to help aircraft operate, the official added. On June 17, an Indigo flight 6E 2521 between Delhi and Bagdogra was delayed due to high ground temperatures impeding operations. Meanwhile, on the issue of frequent complaints of air conditioning not functioning in aircraft, a senior official with a domestic airline said that outside temperatures are so high that the air conditioning system of aircraft is unable to cool the aircraft on short-distance flights. However, while taxiing and idling on the runway, it could be a cause for trouble for passengers as the temperatures in the cabin can rise due to warm temperatures outside. The national capital is grappling with scorching heatwaves and high temperatures. This has also led to shortage of water in several areas. People are relying on water tankers in order to fulfil their daily requirements. (ANI)
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati proudly announced the successful acquisition of EvyEnergy, a premier eMobility software platform founded by three of its students, by Zemetric, a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging technologies. Co-founded by Tushar Bohra, Mohit Jain and Bhabani Mohapatra, alumni of the B.Tech, batch of 2022, IIT Guwahati, EvyEnergy began as a typical dorm room startup in 2021 and has grown into a leading player in the emerging eMobility landscape in India. The graduates created a software platform that caters to public charging, fleet charging, and destination charging with seamless payment options. The platform boasts nearly 3,000 charging ports on its ChargeConnect platform and mobile app, making it a preferred choice for Charging Point Operators (CPOs) and mobility providers for convenient charging access. Speaking about the development, Prof Devendra Jalihal, Director, IIT Guwahati, said, "We are immensely proud of the achievements of Tushar, Mohit, and Bhabani, all IITG alumni and their innovative venture, EvyEnergy. Our institution provides a nurturing environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and excellence. The success of EvyEnergy underscores our commitment to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive technological advancements and contribute meaningfully to society via enabling future technology development. We congratulate on their remarkable journey and look forward to seeing more groundbreaking contributions from our talented community." Zemetric's acquisition of EvyEnergy grants it access to a market poised for exponential growth while incorporating proven software talent. Speaking about his experience of co-founding EvyEnergy at IIT Guwahati campus, Tushar Bohra, said, "Our success reflects the incredible opportunities provided by our college-IIT Guwahati, especially the support from the e-mobility lab. We are profoundly grateful for these opportunities, which have been instrumental in our achievements throughout our journey. We are firmly committed to giving back and supporting our college in every possible way." The ChargeConnect platform allows drivers to seamlessly locate and access charging stations via its Charger Aggregator feature, while the Cloud Platform gives charger owners/operators total control over their charging systems. The intuitive interface provides real-time insights to CPOs and mobility providers, optimizing charging infrastructure and enhancing user experience. Supporting over 40 different EV charger types and models, ChargeConnect has proven compatibility across various hardware configurations. EvyEnergy stands as a testament to IIT Guwahati's commitment to nurturing innovation and excellence, demonstrating how its alumni are making significant contributions to the evolving technological sector. Through initiatives like the Technology Incubation Centre (TIC), Technology Innovation Hub (TIH), BioNest, and various entrepreneurship development programs, IIT Guwahati offers mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities to both students and alumni. The Institute's curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and practical experience, equipping students with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of the startup world. The recently launched Entrepreneurship Development Program exemplifies the Institute's aspirational steps for young individuals, fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs ready to tackle global challenges. The partnership between EvYEnergy and Zemetric, a leading American EV charging technology company, positions both players strategically in the rapidly growing Indian EV market while enhancing software capabilities for the North American market. This collaboration will enable IIT Guwahati alumni to contribute significantly to the global e-mobility industry. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Jammu and Kashmir on June 20 and 21, 2024. On June 20, at around 6 p.m., the Prime Minister will participate in the 'Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K' event at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. PM Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple development projects in Jammu and Kashmir. He will also launch Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP). On June 21, at around 6.30 a.m., the Prime Minister will participate in 10th International Day of Yoga event at SKICC in Srinagar. Prime Minister will address the gathering on the occasion and take part in the CYP Yoga session thereafter. The event "Empowering Youth, Transforming J&K" is a pivotal moment for the region, showcasing progress and providing inspiration to young achievers. On occasion, the Prime Minister will inspect stalls and interact with young achievers in the region. Prime Minister Modi will lay the foundation stone and inaugurate 84 major developmental projects valued at more than Rs. 1,500 crore. The inaugurations will include projects related to road infrastructure, water supply schemes, infrastructure in higher education, etc. Additionally, Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for projects like improvement of Chenani-Patnitop-Nashri Section, development of Industrial estates, and construction of six Government Degree Colleges. Prime Minister will also launch the Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture & Allied Sectors (JKCIP) Project, worth Rs. 1,800 crore. The project will be implemented in 90 Blocks across 20 districts of J&K, and will have an outreach of 300,000 households, covering 15 lakh beneficiaries. Prime Minister will also distribute appointment letters to more than 2,000 people appointed in government service. The foundation stone laying/inauguration and launch of these projects will empower the youth and upgrade the infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. On the occasion of 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, 2024, Prime Minister will lead the International Yoga Day Celebrations at SKICC, Srinagar. This year's event underscores Yoga's profound impact on young minds and bodies. The celebration aims to unite thousands in the practice of Yoga, promoting health and wellness on a global scale. Since 2015, Prime Minister has led the International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations at various iconic locations, including Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru and even the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This year's theme, "Yoga for Self and Society," highlights the dual role of yoga in fostering individual and societal well being. The event will encourage grassroots participation and the spread of yoga in rural areas. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin wrote a letter to Union Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar to secure the immediate release of all the fishermen and their fishing boats apprehended by Sri Lanka. The Chief Minister pointed out that four fishermen from his state who set out from the Kottaipattinam fishing harbour in Pudukottai District were apprehended from Tamil Nadu on Tuesday by the Sri Lankan Navy. "I wish to draw your attention to the apprehension of four fishermen from Tamil Nadu on 18.06.2024 by the Sri Lankan Navy. These fishermen, who set out from the Kottaipattinam fishing harbour in Pudukottai District, on their mechanised fishing boat bearing Registration No.IND- TN-08-MM-05, were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy on 18.06.2024," Stalin wrote in the letter. The Chief Minister said that such incidents disrupt livelihoods of fishermen and instill a "sense of fear" and "uncertainty" among the entire fishing community. "These incidents not only disrupt the livelihoods of the fishermen but also instill a sense of fear and uncertainty among their families and the entire coastal communities," Stalin said. "Currently, 15 fishermen and 162 fishing boats are still under the custody of the Sri Lankan Government," he added. Asking the External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to ensure the release of fishermen through diplomatic channels, he said, "I therefore request you to urgently prevail upon the Sri Lankan Government through appropriate diplomatic channels for the immediate release of all the fishermen from Tamil Nadu and their fishing boats." Earlier in April, a total of 19 fishermen from Tamil Nadu were sent to Chennai in an Air India passenger flight from Sri Lanka's Colombo following their arrest, by the Sri Lankan Navy on March 6 for crossing the border. The 19 fishermen included nine from Mayiladuthurai, four from Pudukottai, and six from Karaikal in Puducherry state. All of them went fishing in the sea in two boats on March 6. The families of the fishermen had requested the central and state governments to take action to release the fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. Following this, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin immediately wrote an letter to the Union Minister of External Affairs Jaishankar, requested him to take action to release the fishermen. The Indian embassy officials in Sri Lanka subsequently held talks with the Sri Lankan government officials. (ANI)
Congress leader Raj Babbar on Wednesday spoke about the upcoming Assembly Elections in Haryana and said that the party will win all the 90 seats if it gets the support of the people. Speaking with ANI, Babbar said, "The party has asked me to initiate the preparations. They have asked me to do the campaigning and I am fully engaged in the campaigning." He added further, "I want to make the party win all the 90 seats and if we get the support of the people, we will definitely win." On being asked about contesting the elections, the Congress leader said, "I have never fought Vidhan Sabha elections." Notably, Raj Babbar had contested against BJP's Rao Inderjit Singh from Gurugram Lok Sabha constituency. Singh had defeated Babbar with a margin of 75079 votes. Singh had garnered 8,08,336 votes while Babbar had secured 7,33,257 votes. The assembly polls in Haryana are due in October this year. In the 2019 Assembly Elections, the BJP had secured 40 seats while Congress emerged victorious on 31 seats. The Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) had won 10 seats. Ahead of the polls, the Congress in the state faced a big jolt as prominent Haryana leaders, Kiran Choudhry and her daughter Shruti Choudhry, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday. Both the leaders joined the BJP in a ceremony at the party headquarters in New Delhi in the presence of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, former CM and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, and the BJP's National General Secretary, Tarun Chugh. After joining the BJP, Kiran Choudhry said, "Today I took this decision because of the Prime Minister, who has pledged a developed India by 2047. I have full faith that India will shine in the world. The public welfare work done by the Prime Minister has led to the formation of a BJP government in Delhi for the third time. I have worked a lot with Khattar ji. There used to be a lot of bitterness between us. But the way he worked has been my source of inspiration." Yesterday, the former MP from Bhiwani-Mahendragarh constituency has tendered her resignation as a Primary Member of Congress and also from the post of the Working President of the Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee. (ANI)
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar hinted on Wednesday that he may contest the Channapatna assembly bypoll, and said that he has a "debt" to repay to the people of the constituency. Speaking to reporters in Karnataka's Bengaluru, Shivakumar said, "Channapatna is in my heart. It was part of the erstwhile Sathanur assembly constituency, which I represented. My political career actually started there. The people of Channaptna have been with me in tough times and I have a debt to repay." The Channapatna bypoll was necessitated following the election of its representative, Janata Dal Secular (JDS) leader and now Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, to Lok Sabha in the recent elections. "There is an opportunity to develop Channapatna in the same way I have developed Kanakapura. I am visiting the temples of the constituency and discussing with the local leaders and voters, will take a decision on contesting later," added the Karnataka Deputy CM. Asked about the possibility of his brother D. K. Suresh contesting from Channapatna, he said, "It has not been finalised." Suresh was fielded from Bangalore Rural Lok Sabha segment. However, he lost to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s CN Manjhunath by a margin of 2,69,647 votes, as per the Election Commission of India (ECI). JD (S)'s Kumaraswamy represented the Channapatna assembly in 2018 and 2023. Shivakumar, on the other hand, has been representing the Kanakapura segment since 2008. Earlier today, DK Shivakumar visited Raghavendra Mutt and Kote Sri Varadarajaswamy Temple in Channapatnam. Taking to 'X', he wrote, "Today I visited the Raghavendra Mutt and Kote Sri Varadarajaswamy Temple in Channapatna, offered pooja, got darshan of God and prayed for the good of all." (ANI)
Jammu and Kashmir police on Wednesday said that in a major breakthrough in connection with the Reasi terror attack, one terror associate was arrested who helped the terrorists in the execution of the attack. A bus carrying pilgrims fell into a gorge after the terrorist attack in Reasi district in Jammu and Kashmir on June 9 evening, leaving at least nine persons dead and 33 others injured. Addressing a press conference, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi, Mohita Sharma said that the arrested person has been identified as Hakamdeen. "A major breakthrough has been achieved in the case pertaining to the terrorist attack on the pilgrim bus which was coming from Shiv Khori on 9th June. In this, one terror associate, namely Hakam, age 45 years has been arrested by Jammu and Kashmir Police at Reasi. Reasi SSP said that the arrested person was a prime militant associate who helped the terrorists in the execution of the attack. "This person was involved in harbouring the terrorists multiple times. Along with providing food and shelter, the said person also acted as a guide and helped them reach the spot of the incident. The arrested person is a prime militant associate who helped the terrorists in the execution of the attack. Further interrogation and investigation of the case is going on," she added. Reasi SSP further said that around 150 people have been arrested in connection with this case. "We have arrested the terrorist from Bandrahi in Rajouri district. I reached the spot of the incident after 1.5 hours but the local police reached the spot immediately and were involved in the rescue of the injured...Since it was the day of the swearing-in ceremony of the new government and the India-Pakistan match, so we were on alert. We did not get any specific input regarding this attack," she said. She further said that further interrogation and investigation of the case is going on. Earlier today, Reasi Police arrested Hakamdeen in a Reasi terror attack case. As per the police, he worked for the terrorists as a guide and gave them shelter for Rs 6000. "He (Hakamdeen) also said that he was present at the attack site and also heard gunshots. After the attack, he led the terrorists out of the area. On different occasions, the terrorists visited his residence. One day before the incident the terrorists stayed at his residence. He mentions about three terrorists. During recee of the site, he made sure that no CCTVs could capture him or the terrorists. He was given Rs 6000 for this help by terrorists. We will not stop until those terrorists are either arrested or neutralised," SSP Reasi told ANI. On June 10, a team from the NIA also visited the spot to support local police and evaluate the ground situation. The terrorists attacked the bus when it was coming from the Ransoo area of the Reasi district. Police had said the bus was ferrying pilgrims from Shiv Khori cave shrine to Katra in Reasi district and came under attack in Teryath village in Pouni area of Reasi district, bordering Rajouri district, at about 6.10 pm on June 9. (ANI)
In a significant crackdown on illegal substances, the Sonamura police, led by Sub Inspector (SI) Tapan Das, raided the house of Anwar Hossain in Kulubari village, located in West Tripura. The operation resulted in the seizure of 1670 bottles of the banned cough syrup Eskuf, a substance with an estimated market value of approximately Rs 7 lakh. The raid took place on June 18 at around 8:00 pm. Anwar Hossain, the prime suspect in the case, managed to escape and is currently on the run. The police have registered a case against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The police have launched a manhunt for Anwar Hossain and are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to his arrest. Meanwhile, Tapan Das, SI, Sonamura Police Station informed about the raid and said, "We raided the house of Anwar Hossain in Kulubari last night around 9 PM. The operation resulted in the seizure of 1670 bottles of Eskuf, a substance with an estimated market value of approximately Rs 7 lakh. He further added, "Anwar Hossain, the prime suspect in the case, managed to escape... The police have registered a case against him under the NDPS Act. We are determined to keep up our efforts to eradicate the menace of illegal substances from our community. This seizure is a testament to our relentless pursuit of a drug-free society." A week earlier also, the Bamutia police successfully seized 75 bottles of Eskuf, from the Rangutia area of Tripura, the officials had said. The raid, executed at the residence of Narayan Das, resulted in the recovery of the illegal cough syrup. While no arrests were made during the operation, authorities managed to locate and seize 75 bottles of the contraband from a nearby forest on June 12. The operation had took place under the leadership of officer-in-charge Slanthony Jamatia. (ANI)
Delhi's Patiala House Court on Wednesday granted bail to accused Arun Kumar Bereddy arrested for allegedly posting fake and morphed photos and spreading misleading information to malign the reputation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The court said that the arrest of the accused has been found illegal for not giving proper notice before his arrest. Metropolitan Magistrate Akanksha Garg granted bail to Arun Kumar Bereddy on a personal bond of Rs 50,000. The court has also imposed conditions while granting the bail. The court rejected the application of the Special Cell of Delhi police seeking three days of remand. The court noted that though a notice was given to the accused but sufficient time was not granted to him before arrest on June 18. The court noted that the notice was served at 8:30 pm. The Magistrate said, "I have perused the notice under section 41A CrPC given by the IO, as per which the accused was required to appear before the IO at 09:30 PM on the same day that is 18.06.2024. Thus, notice u/s 41A CrPC was a merely formality and has not been complied in letter and spirit." The court said that the accused must have been given the sufficient time to join the investigation, however, he was arrested by the IO at 10:30 pm. This is not a case where the accused has failed to join the investigation, the court said. "Hence, I hereby dismiss the application seeking PC remand of the accused. Arrest of the accused is found to be illegal as no proper notice u/s 41A CrPC has been served," the court said in the order passed on June 19. The accused was produced before the court after his arrest on June 18. He has been arrested for allegedly posting fake, morphed and misleading information and photos intending to malign the reputation of Prime Minister Modi and impacting the morale of women deployed in Armed/Central Forces and friendly relations with other countries. The court noted that the offences in question under Section 294, 469, 499, 500 and 504 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 67 of the Income Tax Act are bailable in nature. The court said that the only non-bailable offence invoked by the IO is Section 505 (1) (b) of the Indian Penal Code, however, in view of the fact that the mobile phone of the accused has already been seized and the password has been provided, no further custodial interrogation is warranted. Earlier in May, the Patiala House Court of Delhi granted bail to accused Arun Reddy who allegedly handled the 'Spirit of Congress' X account, in the Union Home Minister Amit Shah's deepfake morphed video' case on furnishing of bail bonds in the sum of Rs. 50,000/- with one surety in the like amount. Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Nabila Wali observed that the prime allegation against the applicant or accused on the basis of which he was arrested is being the 'Admin' of the Whats App group on which the alleged fake video was first posted for circulation. However, there are no allegations of the applicant/ accused having posted or circulated the said video on any forum. (ANI)
Chief Scientist, India Meteorological Department, Sunil Kamble said that for the coming two to three days, the Yellow alert for rain has been issued in Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad areas. Speaking to ANI on Wednesday, Sunil Kamble said, "The pace of rain in Mumbai had reduced a bit in the last 2-3 days, but now it is gaining momentum. The monsoon current is becoming moderately strong. For the coming 2-3 days, we have given yellow alerts in Mumbai, Thane and Raigad areas. We have also given yellow alerts for the entire Vidarbha. The rest of Maharashtra is also not on alert, but moderate rain will continue there as well." He further said that in Mumbai currently, the rainfall is widespread. He further said, "Yellow alert has been given in Mumbai, Sindhudurg, and many parts of Vidarbha. In Mumbai currently, rain is widespread and 50-60 mm. During the onset of the Monsoon, the fishermen are put on alert depending on wind speed in East Central Arabian sea and West central Arabian sea. At present there is a Yellow alert. From June 20-21 the rain can become widespread and heavy to very heavy rain is expected." Mumbai city on Wednesday woke up to cloudy skies and several parts of the city received rainfall in the morning. The temperature in Mumbai was recorded at 28.65 degrees Celsius today. The maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to be around 33 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees respectively for the next two days. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Mumbai for today and tomorrow. Neighbouring cities like Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Pune will observe yellow alert conditions till June 23. "Conditions are favorable for the further advance of the Southwest Monsoon into some more parts of Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and the Northwest Bay of Bengal, some parts of Gangetic West Bengal, the remaining parts of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and some parts of Bihar & Jharkhand during the next 3-4 days," the IMD said in its bulletin. (ANI)
The incident, which occurred on June 18, involved the person namely Mohammad Rafi resident of Trown Tehsil Bhalla Distt Doda, forcibly taking the weapon from a police personnel.

SSP Doda Javaid Iqbal said that an investigation would be conducted to find out the background of the accused.

Javaid Iqbal said, "A person ran away with a police weapon yesterday evening. A joint search operation of the Indian Army and Police was underway and we have arrested the accused. We are investigating the matter. Further details can be revealed after the investigation."

Upon receiving the information, the Jammu & Kashmir Police of District Doda along with Army 4 RR immediately launched a comprehensive cordon and search operation, employing advanced tracking techniques and mobilizing multiple units.

The accused was tracked down and arrested from the forest in higher reaches of the Trown area. The stolen weapon was also recovered during the operation, ensuring that it is once again in safe custody.

The accused is currently in custody and undergoing further interrogation and legal action. (ANI)
Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Wednesday chaired an emergency meeting with heads of all major hospitals amid heatwave conditions and a surge in heatstroke cases in the national capital. During the meeting, Delhi Health Minister directed all major hospitals in the national capital to scale up their beds for patients with heat-related illnesses. "Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj today chaired an emergency meeting with heads of all major hospitals amid heatwave conditions. He directed the hospitals to scale up their beds for patients with heat-related illnesses," as per the Health Minister's Office. "The fresh advisory will be advertised in radio and newspapers. Delhi Police beat officers/ patrolling teams will be requested to help in shifting homeless to shelter homes in case they are lying under open sky," as per the Health Minister's Office. As per IMD, the maximum temperature of 43.6 degrees Celsius was recorded in the national capital on Wednesday (June 19).As per officials from Lok Nayak Hospital and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital 20 people have been hospitalized due to heatstroke. Suresh Kumar, Medical Director of LNJP Hospital says, "Currently, 9 patients are admitted in LNJP hospital. Out of the 9 patients, 4 patients are on ventilator support due to their critical condition and multi-organ failure due to heatstroke." According to Dr Ajay Shukla, Medical Superintendent of RML Hospital, 11 people were admitted to the hospital on Tuesday with heat stroke, the highest reported in a single day this season." As per the IMD, heat waves are a period of unusually high temperatures as compared to what is normally expected over a region. A heatwave is considered if the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or more for plains and at least 30 degrees Celsius or more for hilly regions. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday held a protest over the water crisis in the national capital. Leaders like Delhi BJP chief Virendraa Sachdeva, BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj and BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal took part in the protest carried out at the Indira camp in Kalyan Vihar. "These women have to stay awake all night to get water and they also have to work during the day time. The situation is such that their children do not bathe for so many days and they don't even have water to cook. The Delhi government's administration is corrupt. The Haryana government yesterday also provided surplus water, I have seen documents of water release. The leaders of AAP are indulged in the black marketing of water," said Sachdeva. Swaraj highlighted that the people in the national capital are using dirty water due to the absence of consumable water. She further accused AAP of fooling people by making fake promises. "We are here at Indira camp today. The situation is terrible. People have to use dirty water. We have ordered as many water tankers as we could provide. AAP leaders have made fake promises and fooled people. They have not done anything for people in the last ten years," said Bansuri Swaraj. Khandelwal emphasised that the issue of water crisis is deepening every day and this year the situation got further aggravated due to extreme heat conditions. "The issue of water crisis is deepening every day. Because of the extreme heat this summer, the situation has been further aggravated. But the water crisis happens every year. The question is why did the Kejriwal government not try to bring out any permanent solution to the problem. Kejriwal can only make allegations but nothing other than that. He does not care if the people of Delhi are dying out of thirst. They are the only ones who are conspiring. They just want to defame the centre, the Haryana government and the BJP," said the BJP MP. It is noteworthy that the water crisis has also incited a political storm in the national capital, with both BJP and AAP at loggerheads. The Aam Aadmi Party has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of "orchestrating" the shortage in the national capital by trying to block the flow of water into the national capital. The BJP has been blaming the AAP government for the water crisis saying that it did not take effective action against the tanker mafia who pilfer water. It even held protests in different parts of Delhi against the water crisis. Congress, which had fought the recent Lok Sabha elections in alliance with the AAP in the national capital, has also held protests in the national capital. (ANI)
West Bengal's Leader of Opposition and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, on Wednesday accused the TMC goons of seriously injuring party leader Moumita Sinha inside the West Midnapore Block Development Office. He also said that post-poll violence is increasing in West Bengal, adding that in the last 24 hours, a BJP worker died in custody. "Our party leader Moumita Sinha was called and beaten up in the BDO office... She is seriously injured by the TMC goons inside the Block Development Office. In front of the Block Development Officer, she was injured brutally... The post-poll violence is increasing. In the last 24 hours, a BJP worker died in custody," he said. Incidents of post-poll violence poured in from several pockets of West Bengal where BJP workers were allegedly beaten and their offices were vandalised, after the declaration of Lok Sabha 2024 results. On June 13, West Bengal's Leader of Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, was stopped by the police from entering the Raj Bhavan to meet West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose with alleged victims of post-poll violence. Adhikari had stated, "For the first time after independence, we have been stopped outside Raj Bhavan. They didn't let the LoP enter. The Governor called in the victim with written permission. 200 victims, accompanied by LoP, had come here." Earlier this month, West Bengal opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari had written to Governor CV Ananda Bose, raising concerns about the All India Trinamool Congress' alleged role in post-poll violence, urging him to take steps to prevent a recurrence of the situation after elections in 2024. In a letter to the Governor of West Bengal, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari said that after the 2024 Parliamentary General Election results were announced on June 4, "goons of the ruling dispensation" has gone "berserk upon the workers of BJP" in West Bengal. "As has become synonymous now with the State of West Bengal, the goons of the ruling dispensation have gone berserk upon the workers of BJP after the declaration of results of the Parliamentary General Elections, 2024, which was announced on June 4, 2024," Adhikari said in the letter. "This seems to be a repeat of the incidents that transpired after the declaration of the results of the 2021 assembly election results in Bengal, which had resulted in the death of several BJP karyakartas," he added. Adhikari further alleged that the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces, stationed after the polls, are not being utilised to control the worsening situation where the ruling party's goons are targeting BJP workers. (ANI)
Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Jual Oram on Wednesday said that the Centre has kept an overall 7.5 per cent of the budget for the tribal community of India. He said the government has initiated various schemes for the tribal community which has significantly brought a change in their lives. In an exclusive interview with ANI, the Union Minister on tribal budget said, "We have a budget of more than Rs 5 lakh crores for the tribal community that can be spent on their welfare projects. Also, each Ministry has its tribal component. So, in total, we have an overall 7.5 per cent allocation of budget for tribal communities." Speaking about the projects for the tribal community, Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram asserted, "We are working on the Eklavya Model Mission Schools. We are working on constituting 740 Eklavya Model schools. During the reign of Atal Ji, the targeted mission of schools was 100 from which we had constituted 84. But when the Congress party came into the rule, the mission became relatively slow. But after Narendra Modi Ji came into power, the speed of the project is revamped and now, we have funds of more than Rs 1.50 lakh crores available for the project." On the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) - Aajeevika he said, "Along with it, we are working on the livelihood scheme. In the livelihood scheme, we have provided MSPs on more than 87 products which has increased the income of tribes, as, initially the middlemen used to purchase those items at lower rates." "We have made 3,958 Van Dhan Vikas Kendra operational. We have built various storage godowns. We are providing marketing support to tribes for the non-timber forest products, which has brought a significant change in their life," said Jual Oram on other welfare schemes of tribes. Non-timber forest products are any products or services that come from forests but are not timber He further stated, "One of the most important aspects was the constitution of the National Education Society (NEST) for tribal students which is very similar to Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs). Recruitment is continued for NEST." In the meanwhile, preparation for the upcoming Union Budget 2024-25 commenced in Delhi on June 13. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has directed officials to initiate the budget preparation process, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning and comprehensive analysis. This early start aims to ensure a well-structured budget that effectively addresses the country's economic priorities and challenges. The collaborative efforts of the ministry's team are expected to contribute to a robust and strategic financial plan for the upcoming fiscal year. According to sources, the Union Budget for 2024-25 is likely to be tabled in Parliament by the third week of July. Earlier, on February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the interim budget for 2024-2025 in Parliament due to the election year. (ANI)
According to the officials, after getting the intelligence information BSF Troops quickly rushed towards the spot to conduct the operation, the search was conducted around 11:05 in the morning.

BSF has identified the drone as a China-made DJI MAVIC 3 classic.

Reliable information by the intelligence and swift action of BSF Troops once again thwarted another attempt of drone intrusion in Punjab from across the border.

Earlier on May 5, the troops of the Border Security Forces (BSF) recovered a damaged China-made drone with a packet of Heroin in Punjab's Tarn Taran District.

"On 4th May 2024, at about 10:00 am, while performing duty ahead of the border fence in the border area of district Tarn Taran, vigilant BSF troops observed something suspicious in a harvested field, which on reaching nearby turned to be a drone along with a packet of suspected heroin," the BSF said in a statement.

"The drone along with 01 packet of suspected heroin (Gross weight- 416 grams) wrapped with yellow coloured adhesive tape was immediately seized. This recovery took place in a harvested field nearby Village Kalash in district Tarn Taran," the BSF added. (ANI)
At the party's foundation day, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray said, "Today, I welcomed not only our winning MPs but also those who did not win. I want the government to fall and elections to be held so that we can form the INDIA alliance government..."

Challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to initiate campaigning for Assembly polls, Thackeray said, "I openly challenge PM Modi to start campaigning for Assembly elections from today itself... I challenge PM Modi to go to Andhra Pradesh and say that whatever Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has said in his manifesto he will fulfil it."

In the Lok Sabha elections, Congress won 13 out of 48 seats while BJP secured nine seats. Shiv Sena (UBT) won nine seats while Nationalist Congress Party - Sharadchandra Pawar - NCPSP won eight seats. On the other hand, Shiv Sena secured seven seats while NCP secured one seat.

Maharashtra witnessed the poll battle between the Shiv Sena-UBT (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) and the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction)-BJP alliance and the NCP (Ajit Pawar) and the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar).

Under the seat-sharing arrangement, the BJP contested in 28 constituencies, while its allies Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) fought in 14 constituencies and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP in five constituencies.

On the other hand, Maha Vikas Aghadi members Shiv Sena (UBT) contested in 21 constituencies, Congress in 17, and the NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) in 10 constituencies. (ANI)
Amidst the alleged irregularities related to medical entrance examination National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) results and paper leak, K Annamalai, Tamil Nadu BJP President said that the problem is with National Testing Agency (NTA) and not the NEET examination. While speaking at the press conference in Chennai, K Annamalai spoke about issues related to the NEET exam and said, "In Gujarat, Bihar, and Delhi we can see some arrests in the NEET examination issue. A few issues have been raised against the NEET exam. The question paper was leaked, and 1563 candidates were given grace marks." He added further, "Today, the Education Minister (Dharmendra Pradhan) has given assurance on it. There is no problem with the NEET exam, it's about NTA. 89,426 students have passed the NEET examination from Tamil Nadu. The Union minister said that re-examination will be conducted, if some mistakes have happened or if anyone is involved in the malpractice they will be punished." Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Tuesday told the Centre and NTA that if there is any negligence in conducting the NEET-UG, 2024 exam, it should be thoroughly dealt with. "If there is 0.001 per cent negligence on the part of anyone, it should be thoroughly dealt with. All these matters ought not to be treated as adversarial litigation," observed a vacation bench of Justices Vikram Nath and SVN Bhatti. Aspirants have raised the issue of leakage of the question paper, awarding compensatory marks and anomalies in the question of NEET-UG 2024. The apex court, while hearing fresh petitions relating to alleged paper leaks and malpractices in the NEET-UG, 2024 exam on May 5 this year, issued notices and sought a response from NTA within two weeks. It has tagged these pleas, along with several petitions pending before it and posted them for hearing on July 8. Several petitions were filed in the apex court seeking direction to recall NEET-UG 2024 results and to conduct the examination afresh, alleging paper leakage and malpractices in the test held on May 5. Last week, the NTA told the Supreme Court that the scorecards of 1,563 NEET-UG 2024 candidates who got "grace marks" to compensate for the loss of time suffered while appearing for the exam will be cancelled and the students will have a chance to reappear for the exam. "Exam will be conducted on June 23 and result will be declared before June 30," NTA had told the apex court. The apex court had already refused to stay the counselling of NEET-UG, 2024. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday lauded the Union Cabinet's decisions to increase the Minimum Support Price (MSP) on 14 Kharif crops and the development of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi. The Prime Minister also praised the approval of the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme for offshore wind energy projects and the development of a major port at Vadhavan in Maharashtra. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today approved the increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for all mandated Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2024-25. "Our government is continuously taking important steps for the welfare of our farmer brothers and sisters across the country. In this direction, today the Cabinet has approved the increase in the minimum support price of all major Kharif crops for the year 2024-25," PM Modi posted on X. The government has increased the MSP of Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2024-25, to ensure remunerative prices to the growers for their produce. The highest absolute increase in MSP over the previous year has been recommended for oilseeds and pulses viz. niger seed (Rs 983/- per quintal) followed by sesamum (Rs 632/- per quintal) and tur/arhar (Rs 550/- per quintal). Cost data are not separately compiled for Paddy (Grade A), Jowar (Maldandi) and Cotton (Long staple). "The increase in MSP for Kharif Crops for Marketing Season 2024-25 is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19 announcement of fixing the MSP at a level of at least 1.5 times the All-India weighted average cost of production, The expected margin to farmers over their cost of production is estimated to be highest in case of bajra (77 per cent) followed by tur (59 per cent), maize (54 per cent) and urad (52 per cent). For the rest of the crops, the margin to farmers over their cost of production is estimated to be at 50 per cent," it added. In recent years, the Government has been promoting the cultivation of crops, other than cereals such as pulses and oilseeds, and Nutri-cereals/ Shree Anna, by offering a higher MSP for these crops. The Union Cabinet approved the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme for offshore wind energy projects at a total outlay of Rs 7453 crore, including an outlay of Rs.6853 crore for installation and commissioning of 1 GW of offshore wind energy projects (500 MW each off the coast of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu), and grant of Rs 600 crore for upgradation of two ports to meet logistics requirements for offshore wind energy projects. The Prime Minister further said that the "Cabinet decision to approve a funding scheme for 1 GW offshore wind projects off the coasts of Gujarat and Tamil Nadu will enhance our renewable energy capacity, reduce CO2 emissions and create numerous jobs." The VGF scheme is a major step towards implementation of the National Offshore Wind Energy Policy notified in 2015 to exploit the vast offshore wind energy potential that exists within the exclusive economic zone of India. The VGF support from the Government will reduce the cost of power from offshore wind projects and make them viable for purchase by DISCOMs. While the projects will be established by private developers selected through a transparent bidding process, the power excavation infrastructure, including the offshore substations, will be constructed by Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL). Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, as the nodal ministry, will coordinate with various Ministries/Departments to ensure the successful implementation of the scheme. The Union Cabinet approved the proposal of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for the development of Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi including the Construction of a New Terminal Building, Apron Extension, Runway Extension, Parallel Taxi Track and Allied works. "Our government is committed to expanding connectivity across the country. In this direction, we have approved the development of Varanasi International Airport. This will make the lives of the people here easier, as well as provide great convenience to the pilgrims visiting Kashi," PM Modi posted on X. The estimated financial outgo will be Rs 2869.65 crore for enhancing the passenger handling capacity of the airport to 9.9 million passengers per annum (MPPA) from the existing 3.9 MPPA. The New Terminal Building, which encompasses an area of 75,000 sqm is designed for a capacity of 6 MPPA and for handling 5000 Peak Hour Passengers (PHP). The proposal includes extending the runway to dimensions 4075m x 45m and constructing a new Apron to park 20 aircraft. In a post on X, PM Modi said, "Today's Cabinet decision on developing a major port at Vadhavan in Maharashtra will boost economic progress and also create employment opportunities at a large scale." The Union Cabinet also approved Rs 2254.43 crore five-year Central Sector Scheme for the enhancement of forensic infrastructure in India. The scheme underscores the importance of high-quality, trained forensic professionals in the timely and scientific examination of evidence for an efficient criminal justice process, leveraging the advancements in technology and evolving manifestations and methods of crime. The financial outlay of the Central Sector Scheme "National Forensic Infrastructure Enhancement Scheme" (NFIES) will be provisioned by the Ministry of Home Affairs from its own budget. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave its approval for the proposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs' Central Sector Scheme "with a total financial outlay of Rs 2254.43 crore during the period from 2024-25 to 2028-29." The Cabinet has approved three key components under this scheme: the establishment of Campuses of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in the country, the establishment of Central Forensic Science Laboratories in the country, and the enhancement of the existing infrastructure of the Delhi Campus of the NFSU. (ANI)
The fire which started in compartment number 67 in Bali-Tirchi forest range of Udhampur rapidly spread due to strong winds in the region and reached ward number 2 of Upper Bali panchayat.

According to officials, two houses were completely gutted in the blaze and two houses were partially damaged.

Upon receiving information, forest department personnel, a team of SDRF, the Indian Army's Defence fire service personnel and NDRF rushed to the spot.

The efforts to control the flames are still underway but the strong winds are fueling the blaze, the officials said.

Udhampur Forest Division Range Officer Sanjeev Khajuria said that a forest fire broke out in compartment number 67 of Udhampur Forest Range between 2.30 pm to 3.00 pm.

"After getting information our teams rushed to the spot and at that time we controlled the blaze but this evening suddenly gusty wind occurred and the fire spread rapidly to a residential area two houses were completely damaged in the fire and two were partially damaged," the Range Officer said.

He added that personnel from the forest department, Forest Protection Force, SDRF, and Indian Army as well as the fire and emergency Department along with locals are trying hard to control the blaze. (ANI)
Amid the ongoing row over NEET-UG 2024, the Congress party urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take responsibility for stopping the paper leaks. Indian National Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in a post on X referred to the cancellation of the University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) as a "victory of spirit" of millions of students. He further said that it was the "defeat of the Modi government's arrogance." "You "discuss exams" a lot, when will you "discuss the NEET exam"? Cancellation of the UGC-NET exam is a victory of the spirit of millions of students. This is the defeat of the arrogance of the Modi government due to which they made a despicable attempt to trample the future of our youth," Kharge said in the post. https://x.com/kharge/status/1803482823418069420 "The Union Education Minister had earlier said that no paper was leaked in NEET. When arrests are made of the education mafia in Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana, the Education Minister accepts that some scam has taken place! When will the NEET exam be cancelled?" he asked. "Modi Ji, please take the responsibility of stopping your government's rigging and paper leak in NEET exam too!" Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi asked if at least now the accountability be decided. "The laxity and corruption of the BJP government is fatal for the youth. After the news of the scam in NEET exam, now the NET exam held on June 18 has also been cancelled due to the fear of irregularities," Priyanka said in a post on X. https://x.com/priyankagandhi/status/1803476538165543195 "Will accountability be fixed now? Will the education minister take responsibility for this lax system?," she said. The Ministry in a statement on Wednesday said that the issue related to grace marks has already been fully addressed in the matter pertaining to the NEET(UG) -2024. The Ministry of Education has sought a detailed report from the Economic Offences Unit of the Bihar Police over the alleged irregularities in the conduct of the NEET(UG) examination-2024 in Patna. It further reiterated that any individual/organization found to be involved in the NEET (UG) Examination 2024 matter, will face the strictest action. Earlier on June 18, the Supreme Court told the Centre and NTA that if there is any negligence in conducting the NEET-UG, 2024 exam, it should be thoroughly dealt with. Several petitions were filed in the apex court seeking direction to recall NEET-UG 2024 results and to conduct the examination afresh, alleging paper leakage and malpractices in the test held on May 5. Aspirants have raised the issue of leakage of the question paper, awarding compensatory marks and anomalies in the question of NEET-UG 2024. (ANI)
The sentences demonstrate China's "continued efforts to intimidate and silence civil society."

"We urge the PRC to immediately release Huang and Wang, as well as other individuals unjustly detained for exercising their fundamental freedoms," US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement.

China's government sentenced Huang to five years of imprisonment and Wang to three years and six months of imprisonment after a lengthy pre-trial detention and a secret trial closed to journalists or the public.

Further, the US State Department urged China to uphold its promises to respect human rights, including freedoms like expression and fair trials.

"We continue to call on the PRC to live up to its international commitments and to respect the human rights of all persons, including freedom of expression and fair trial guarantees," the statement said.

"We also urge the PRC to accept the many recommendations made this year during the PRC's Universal Periodic Review of its human rights record," the statement added.

Huang created a social media platform for victims to report sexual harassment during the peak of China's #MeToo movement. She shared surveys that stated that sexual harassment was a concern at universities and workplaces, Voice of America reported.

She was arrested in 2019 for joining the protest in Hong Kong.

According to Voice of America, Wang has been an advocate for workers' rights and for those with disabilities since 2014.

According to the online support group Free Huang Xueqin & Wang Jianbing, Haung plans to appeal the sentence. (ANI)
Senate Republicans on Tuesday blocked an attempt by Democrats to pass a bill to ban bump stocks in the wake of a recent Supreme Court ruling, The Hill reported. The move came days after the court overturned a policy enacted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in 2018 after a mass shooting in Las Vegas killed 60 people and wounded hundreds. The shooter used guns equipped with bump stocks, which allow semiautomatic weapons to fire off hundreds of rounds per minute. Senator Martin Heinrich, a New Mexico Democrat, requested that his bill banning bump stocks be brought up for a vote under unanimous consent, a procedure in which a measure passes so long as no lawmaker objects. Senator Pete Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, blocked the measure by objecting. Heinrich said Tuesday there's "no legitimate use for a bump stock. Not for self-defence. Not for law enforcement." "Welcome to another day in the Democrat summer of show votes," Ricketts said Tuesday, likening the move by Democrats to Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's (D-N.Y.) decision to hold votes on reproductive rights in recent weeks. Ricketts also said the Supreme Court ruled correctly last week, as per The Hill. "This bill may be called the BUMP Act, but it's not really about bump stocks," Ricketts said. "This bill is about banning as many firearm accessories as possible and giving ATF broad authority to ban most semiautomatic firearms." Heinrich, who rolled out the bill a year ago alongside Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), tore into the idea that bump stocks will once again be available. "There is no legitimate use for a bump stock. Not for self-defence. Not for law enforcement. Not even in military applications as they are less accurate than a standard fully automatic military platform," Heinrich said. "What they are tailor-made for is a mass shooting." Where the legislative effort goes from here, though, is unclear. Schumer declined to say whether he would bring it up for a full vote on the floor, saying only that he hoped Republicans would "see the light" and not block Heinrich's bill. "Donald Trump is hardly a friend of gun safety, but I'm just shocked that the Supreme Court would be even to the right of him," Schumer said in floor remarks earlier in the day. "If Republicans get in the way today, if they decide to side with the gun lobby instead of parents and teachers and law enforcement, they are asking for another tragedy to strike sooner or later." (ANI)
Jibran who works with a private news channel was targeted by unidentified miscreants on a motorcycle when he was heading towards his residence with his friend Sajjad Advocate, District Police Officer (DPO) Khyber Salim Abbas said.

The journalist's car developed a fault near his home when the gunmen surrounded him, dragged him out of his vehicle and opened fire at him, the DPO said, adding the incident took place in the Mazreena area in the vicinity of Landi Kotal Police Station.

According to the police officer, Jibran, who was also former president of the Landi Kotal Press Club, died on the spot and Sajjad got injured while the culprits fled from the scene.

The body was shifted to a Landi Kotal hospital for post-mortem.

DPO Abbas claimed that Jibran had also received threats from terrorists.

KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur took notice of the incident and ordered authorities concerned to immediately arrest the culprits behind the journalist's killing.

In a statement, the Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors (AEMEND) criticised the higher authorities' failures to stop such incidents as journalists were continuously facing torture, abductions and threats across the country.

Last month, another journalist from a Sindhi newspaper, Nasrullah Gadani, was targeted by unidentified motorcycle-riding assailants near Korai Goth, 12 kilometres from Mirpur Mathelo, leaving him seriously wounded.

Gadani was, at the time of the unfortunate incident, riding his motorcycle. Following the attack, police shifted him to Civil Hospital Mirpur Mathelo, where he received emergency medical aid and was then sent to Rahim Yar Khan for surgery.

Later, he was shifted to Karachi via an air ambulance for better treatment, with the Sindh government announcing to bear all of his medical costs.

However, even shifting him to a better hospital could not bear fruit as he succumbed to his wounds around three days later. (ANI)
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said that he sees a new opening to engage with India on "some "very serious" issues on national security after the return of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to office for a third consecutive term. In an interview to CBC News on Monday on the eve of the anniversary of the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Trudeau said, "Now that he's through his election, I think there is an opportunity for us to engage, including on some very serious issues around national security and keeping Canadians safe and the rule of law." Trudeau's remarks follow his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Italy during the G7 Summit where India was invited as an Outreach country. PM Modi had tweeted a photograph of himself with the Canadian PM as they shook hands. After the meeting in Italy, Trudeau told the Canada-based media channel, Cable Public Affairs Channel (CPAC) there are some "important but sensitive" issues that the two countries need to work on together. He did not share much details of what the two leaders discussed. In his Monday interview to CBC News, Trudeau said, "I think one of the really good things about summits is you get an opportunity to engage directly with a huge range of different leaders with whom there are various issues," Trudeau said, according to CBC News. "And certainly with India, there are massive people-to-people ties, there are really important economic ties, there's alignment on a number of big issues that we need to work on as democracies, as a global community," he said. Ties between the two countries had become strained after Trudeau had in the House of Commons last year talked about "credible allegations" about a potential link between Indian agents and the killing of the Khalistani terrorist Nijjar that took place in Surrey in British Columbia, Columbia in June 2023. India has however dismissed the accusations as "absurd" and "motivated." Nijjar, who was designated a terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency in 2020, was shot and killed outside a Gurdwara in Surrey in June last year. Tuesday marks the first anniversary of Nijjar's death. The video of his killing that reportedly surfaced in March this year showed Nijjar being shot by armed men. Meanwhile, the last time Trudeau and PM Modi had met in person was at the G20 leaders' summit in New Delhi in September last year. (ANI)
The South Pacific, dotted with small and vulnerable island states, has become a battleground for influence between China and the traditional benefactors of Australia, New Zealand, and the USA. As New Zealand's "Maritime Security Strategy 2024" document, released in June, explained, "Certain countries are increasingly exercising hard power to test the limits of the rules-based international system, at the expense of rules that serve smaller countries like New Zealand ... Other states in our maritime area of interest are more assertively pursuing diplomatic, trade, security and development initiatives aimed at enhancing their influence, increasingly shaping international approaches to promote their vision, and challenging international rules and norms." New Zealand's strategy added, "Increased strategic competition in the Pacific will produce a more contested environment with a proliferation of military installations, competing infrastructure investments and more attempts to influence regional bodies." Although the document did not name China specifically, it went on to warn: "Collective action on maritime security challenges may be displaced by the pursuit of geopolitical objectives, and international partnerships with maritime security implications will not necessarily include us, or align with our interests." Dr Anna Powles, Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Defence and Security Studies at New Zealand's Massey University, told New Zealand's Maritime Security Symposium on June 13 that alarm "has become increasingly heightened and the disruptive nature of geopolitical engagement is deeply concerning for many of us". She said defence diplomacy across the South Pacific started rising in 2018, but in 2022 the tempo of activities jumped 197 per cent compared to the preceding year. The Solomon Islands signed a security agreement with China in early 2022. This agreement included provisions for "China to send police, armed police, military personnel and other law enforcement to the Solomon Islands to assist in maintaining social order, protecting people's lives and property, providing humanitarian assistance, carrying out disaster response or providing assistance on other tasks agreed upon by the parties; China may, according to its own needs and with the consent of Solomon Islands, make ship visits to, carry out logistical replenishment in, and have a stopover and transition in the Solomon Islands, and the relevant forces of China can be used to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and major projects in the Solomons." This secretive bilateral agreement "spurred and sort of accelerated engagement by partner countries in response, particularly Australia, the United States, New Zealand, Japan and UK, between 2022 and 2023," Dr Powles explained. Indeed, defence and police engagement with the Solomon Islands increased by approximately 550 per cent after this revelation. There is deep concern that China might attempt to deploy People's Liberation Army (PLA) troops in the Solomon Islands and even set up a future military base. Sending PLA or People's Armed Police (PAP) personnel to Honiara to "maintain social order" would be a shocking development, because China usually only acts under the guise of United Nations peacekeeping missions or in multinational efforts such as the Gulf of Aden anti-piracy task force. There are instances of the PAP being dispatched to Afghanistan and Tajikistan for counterterrorism initiatives, but deployment to somewhere like the Solomon Islands to help keep the government in power would be unprecedented. Since Solomon Islands shifted diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China in 2019, officials have interacted twelve times already. Similarly, Vanuatu hosted no official visits from China until 2014, but since then it has received a stunning 20 visits. Dr Powles also calculated that China's security engagement with Vanuatu increased a whopping 1,950 per cent since 2018. "So we have this massive, massive uptick, and maritime security activities are a significant proportion of these engagements, reflecting that external actors are using security relationships to compete for influence in the Pacific maritime domain, which in turn is raising concerns." Indeed, the Pacific Islands Forum Security Outlook from 2023 stated that "competing and nonaligned security partners could overwhelm and subsequently undermine peace and security efforts in the region". Dr Powles explained, "Geopolitics is very much driving security sector cooperation on land and at sea. Strategic rivalries have intensified these maritime security activities, and we've seen an increase from the development of maritime military facilities such as Lumbron Naval Base [in Papua New Guinea], to hydrographic surveys, to the provision of material aid and infrastructure, and operations countering illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. These activities have emerged as a central mechanism for partners to build relationships and influence, enable visibility and secure presence, and ultimately aim to serve as some form of deterrence in thePacific." The Kiwi academic has witnessed three key trends. "The first is the way in which countering IUU fishing has become a site, or an entry point, for strategic competition by all parties, actually." This includes the rise of coast guard diplomacy. For instance, the USA is expanding coast guard partnerships and ship-rider engagements across the Pacific. Indeed, China challenged the legitimacy and legality of one combined event run by the US Coast Guard last year. "China is also seeking to increase its coast guard presence in the Pacific, not particularly surprising given China's interest in the region, but also given the size of China's fishing fleet." In an overt shift in around 2022, when Beijing issued its "China's Position Paper on Mutual Respect and Common Development with Pacific Island Countries", it first stated it was a direct stakeholder in the security of the Pacific. "What is clear with this development around the China Coast Guard is that it may present an opportunity, or rather reflect a desire to broaden maritime security cooperation and presence, and also potentially set up a counter-arrangement to the current ship-rider arrangements that are in place," Dr Powles remarked. From June 30, the China Coast Guard (CCG) will venture deep into the Pacific Ocean as it officially operates in the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission Convention Area (WCPFC). This regional fisheries organization is designed to manage and sustain migratory fish stocks in the western and central Pacific Ocean. The CCG has allocated a large fleet of 26 vessels to carry out fisheries inspections in a huge area of the Pacific Ocean. In fact, CCG vessels will be permitted to legally board any foreign fishing vessel on the high seas for the next year. This development is alarming, given the reckless abandon with which the CCG has acted against foreign fishermen and maritime law enforcement agencies in the South China Sea and East China Sea. China's fishing fleet is the worst offender in terms of IUU fishing in the Pacific, and yet the CCG is being permitted to enforce the law in the WCPFC. Dr. Powles highlighted a second key observation about the South Pacific. "The second trend is increasing convergence of geopolitics and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the Pacific." This was illustrated in the response to Tonga's volcanic eruption and tsunami in 2022. While it is good for nations to lend support after natural disasters, there is a danger of efforts turning into a race to fly the flag in a kind of firehose reaction. The New Zealand professor said this behavior is "likely to intensify". "The third trend," Dr. Powles concluded, "is the rise of private actors in the maritime domain, as challenges become increasingly intersected, complex, and the capacity to respond increasingly stretched." A good example of this was, again, "the Tongan response where we saw a nascent but potentially important dynamic emerging where non-state actors were incorporated". This signals the rise of a form of civil-military fusion, as exemplified by Chinese fishing vessels acting as first responders, sailing from Suva after Tonga's disaster. Debt-trap diplomacy is another valid concern for the region. Tonga, Samoa and Vanuatu are among the most heavily indebted nations to China. The former owes more than 50 per cent of its public debt to Beijing, for example, a country that has no real history of forgiving debt to countries unable to pay. Furthermore, Chinese projects, such as a hospital in Samoa, are the stuff of jokes over their poor quality. China typically brings in its own labor for these projects too, meaning there is little benefit to the local economy. As Australian and US attention on the South Pacific waned in the 1990s after the Cold War ended, Beijing arrived as an attractive alternative for many of these small countries. Chinese investment has targeted the energy, transport, and real estate sectors in the Pacific. From 2013-23, Chinese investment in Australasia and the South Pacific reached USD80.78 billion. It has invested in 19 ports in Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and Solomon Islands, at least raising the specter of potentially using them for its naval ships. Natural resources figure highly in China's calculus, such as fishing, mining, and logging. It is also exploring seabeds for high-value strategic minerals like copper, gold, manganese, zinc, cobalt, and nickel. To date, there has been no real correlation between China's influence on South Pacific nations and their voting patterns in international organizations. Chihwei Yu, an associate professor at the Central Police University in Taiwan, noted in recent research for The Jamestown Foundation, that, "The PRC has not formally proposed or published a specific strategy for Pacific island countries. Observing its policies toward individual Pacific nations over the past decade, however, reveals several commonalities." Firstly, "Countries that are located on pivotal access points for global trade or for geostrategic reasons have geopolitical salience for Beijing." He continued, "From a military and security perspective, such countries can serve as sites for force projection and logistical support. This is especially true if these countries have deep-water ports." Yu noted too, "Part of this region's geopolitical importance lies in its location, with some South Pacific islands lying along shipping routes between the United States and Australia. As such, they could serve as support points for projecting overseas military power for any nation. The PRC has invested heavily in this region since 2013, driven by domestic resource needs as well as geopolitical and security considerations." Secondly, Yu observed that China "tends to engage with Pacific countries through economic, cultural and social agreements. These agreements are not explicitly political in nature, but they carry political implications. This reflects the nature of the PRC's motivations for deepening cooperation with these countries, which are not entirely straightforward. If the host country's geographic location holds specific strategic value, Beijing accelerates cooperation on security issues - especially in terms of police and military training and organization." "Third," Yu said, "the PRC is keen to engage in cooperation on police or public security issues with these countries. These collaborations may not involve military or defence matters, but nevertheless they carry political and security implications. When aggregated, these policies suggest that PRC goals have strategic and security intent. This is particularly evident in efforts to counter potential military actions by the United States and Australia and to find ports in the region that can extend its military projection capabilities." As an example of China's influence, it declared its readiness to provide security support for Tonga as it hosts the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum. It has also directly transferred Chinese nationals from Fiji and Vanuatu back to China for criminal prosecution. Martin Purbrick, writing for The Jamestown Foundation, said, "The expansion of PRC police and law enforcement assistance to the Pacific Islands should not be seen as altruistic aid, but rather ought to be viewed in the context of the protection of Chinese economic interests and nationals in the region. The expanded global footprint of Chinese economic activity has brought greater risk to the companies and people involved." Indeed, as China seeks to protect its global footprint, there is a correspondingly greater risk of nefarious influence and pressure being exerted on smaller cash-strapped nations such as those in the South Pacific. (ANI)
The US Deputy Secretary of State also extended congratulatory wishes to Prime Minister Modi and the NDA government on their victory in the national elections.

"Deputy Secretary of State Kurt M. Campbell met today with Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra and Deputy National Security Advisor Vikram Misri in New Delhi, India to discuss their enduring commitment to strengthening the US-India partnership," an official release read.

"Deputy Secretary Campbell congratulated Prime Minister Modi and the NDA government on their victory in national elections, and the people of India on making their voices heard in the largest democratic elections in history," it added.

The leaders also discussed ways to strengthen regional and multilateral coordination across the Indo-Pacific region through the partnership of Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD).

"Both the Deputy Secretary and Foreign Secretary expressed their intention to continue cooperation in ensuring a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," the State Department said in a readout of the meeting.

During the 20th meeting of the US-India Counter Terrorism Joint Working Group and 6th Designations Dialogue which took place on March 5 in Washington D.C, both India and US reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation in the Quad Counterterrorism Working Group and other multilateral fora and processes such as the United Nations, the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF) and Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for advancing shared security interests within the region while supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient.

The two sides committed to information sharing, capacity building and continued bilateral and multilateral efforts to address these threats, according to MEA. (ANI)
A high-level US Congressional delegation, led by US Congressman Michael McCaul met Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamshala here on Wednesday. Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was also part of the Congressional delegation. Before meeting the Dalai Lama, the US delegates attended a public felicitation programme at the main Tibetan temple. The disciples of the Dalai Lama were also seen in the temple complex this morning. Children performed and displayed Tibetan culture at the felicitation ceremony in the courtyard of Tsuglagkhang Complex in Dharamshala. During their meeting at his residence in Dharamshala today, McCaul presented Dalai Lama with a framed copy of The Resolve Tibet Act, a bipartisan bill passed by the US Congress to enhance the US support for Tibet. Dalai Lama presented Buddha Statue to Pelosi at the end of the meeting with the US Congressional delegation, the office of the Dalai Lama said. The members of the US Congressional delegation also posed for a group photo with the Tibetan spiritual leader after their meeting. The Congressional delegation arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by officials of the Central Tibetan Administration at Himachal Pradesh's Kangra Airport the same day. Last week, the US Congress passed a bill urging Beijing to re-engage with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders to peacefully resolve their dispute over the status and governance of Tibet. The US House of Representatives passed the bill 'Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act', also known as the 'Resolve Tibet Act', and it now heads to President Joe Biden for a signature to become law, Radio Free Asia reported. The legislation rejects Beijing's stance that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times and urges China to "cease its propagation of disinformation about the history of Tibet, the Tibetan people, and Tibetan institutions, including that of the Dalai Lama." It also urged China to begin talks with the Dalai Lama, who is the spiritual leader of Tibet, and other Tibetan leaders about how Tibet is governed. No formal talks between the two sides have taken place since 2010. Meanwhile, China said on Tuesday that Beijing is "gravely concerned" over the visit of the US delegation to Dharamshala. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressing a regular press conference yesterday asked the US to fully recognise the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai Group and to "stop sending the wrong signal to the world." "It's known by all that the 14th Dalai Lama is not a pure religious figure, but a political exile engaged in anti-China separatist activities under the cloak of religion," the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said. (ANI)
Former US House Speaker Nancy Peolsi who is part of a US bipartisan delegation, which met with the Dalai Lama on Wednesday launched a broadside against Xi Jinping, stating that while the legacy of the Tibetan spiritual leader will live forever, the Chinese President will be gone in a few years. Pelosi who is on a two-day visit to India said "no one will give credit" Xi for anything. "His Holiness Dalai Lama, with his message of knowledge, tradition, compassion, purity of soul and love, will live a long time and his legacy will live forever. But you, the President of China, you'll be gone and nobody will give you credit for anything," said the former US House Speaker. Pelosi said that the Dalai Lama would not approve of her comment against the Chinese. "When I criticize the Chinese government, he says, let's pray for Nancy to rid her of her negative attitudes," Pelosi said during the public felicitation programme at Tsuglagkhang Complex in Dharamshala. The bipartisan Congressional delegation arrived in India on Tuesday and was received by officials of the Central Tibetan Administration at Himachal Pradesh's Kangra Airport the same day. Last week, the US Congress passed a bill urging Beijing to re-engage with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders to peacefully resolve their dispute over the status and governance of Tibet. The US House of Representatives passed the bill 'Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act', also known as the 'Resolve Tibet Act', and it now heads to President Joe Biden for a signature to become law, Radio Free Asia reported. "You heard our colleagues talk about this legislation that was passed last week. We had been fighting this for a long time and in the spirituality of His Holiness, with manoeuvring inside the Congress, we made progress. But it's different now with the passage of this bill (Resolve Tibet Act) because this bill is a message to the Chinese Government that we have clarity in our thinking and our understanding of this issue of the freedom of Tibet," Pelosi said. Pelosi further recalled the visit of the Chinese President to Washington, DC where she told him that the US is "objecting" to what China is doing to the culture of Tibet. In response, Xi said, "You know what you're talking about, you should go there and see for yourself all the improvements that China is making in Tibet," Pelosi recalled. "They are trying to erase the culture by reducing the use of the language. They are trying something that we cannot let them get away with. I'll be gracious to the Chinese people, I don't know that they're up to this, but we do know that the Chinese government is, and we do know that they must get the message. This legislation sends the message, the House and the Senate and soon to be signed by Joe Biden, the president of the United States..." the former US House Speaker added. US Representative Congressman Gregory Meeks who is heading the American delegation's visit to India too gave a strong response to Beijing's criticism of their visit, and said that the US is going to stand for what is right. "China can express unhappiness if it wants. We are going to stand for what is right. What is right is to make sure that Tibetans have freedom. They are able to return to their native land and they are able to keep their culture & history...That's what is important..." he said. Sikyong Penpa Tsering of the Central Tibetan Administration said "no one can really make China happy." "The meeting went on for about an hour. His Holiness (Dalai Lama) speaks about the larger interest of the society...He appreciated the US Congress people for passing the legislation," Penpa Tsering said on the meeting of the American delegation to Dharamshala. He further said, "Who can make China happy? They have to look at the reality and the situation and understand it from a better perspective..." The US legislation, notably rejects Beijing's stance that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times and urges China to "cease its propagation of disinformation about the history of Tibet, the Tibetan people, and Tibetan institutions, including that of the Dalai Lama." It also urged China to begin talks with the Dalai Lama, who is the spiritual leader of Tibet, and other Tibetan leaders about how Tibet is governed. No formal talks between the two sides have taken place since 2010. Meanwhile, China said on Tuesday that Beijing is "gravely concerned" over the visit of the US delegation to Dharamshala. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressing a regular press conference yesterday asked the US to fully recognise the anti-China separatist nature of the Dalai Group and to "stop sending the wrong signal to the world." (ANI)
During his visit, the External Affairs Minister will hold meetings with the leadership of Sri Lanka on wide-ranging issues of the partnership between the two countries.

"This will be EAM's first bilateral visit after the formation of a new Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the MEA said in an official release.

Jaishankar's visit marks India's continued commitment to Sri Lanka, being its closest maritime neighbour.

"Reaffirming India's Neighbourhood First Policy, the visit underlines India's continued commitment to Sri Lanka as its closest maritime neighbour and time-tested friend. The visit will add momentum to connectivity projects and other mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors," the External Affairs Ministry said.

Jaishankar, a prominent BJP leader who steered India's diplomatic course during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term took charge as External Affairs Minister once again in the new government and resumed his duties at the Ministry of External Affairs in South Block last week.

Jaishankar, 69, took oath as Union Cabinet Minister at the swearing-in ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 9.

He has been a BJP MP in Rajya Sabha from Gujarat since 2019. The minister who has made headlines for his witty replies and oratory skills, has been at the centre stage in PM Modi's team shaping India's foreign policy for the past decade.

Prior to taking over as the country's foreign minister in 2019, Jaishankar also served as the country's Foreign Secretary from 2015 to 2018.

Notably, he also became the first Foreign Secretary to assume the role of External Affairs Minister. (ANI)
The SAI20 Engagement group of Supreme Audit Institutions from G20 countries, held its SAI20 Summit 2024 in Belem, Para, Brazil. Chaired by the Federal Court of Accounts (TCU) of Brazil, the summit gathered key representatives from SAI20 countries, including Girish Chandra Murmu, Comptroller and Auditor General of India as part of the SAI20 Troika alongside Brazil and South Africa for finalisation and approval of the SAI20 Communique, according to an official release. On the summit's opening day, Murmu highlighted SAI20's significant contributions and aspirations. "In this short span of time, SAI20 has established itself as a dynamic and robust group, committed to ensuring good governance in the realisation of the G20 agenda," Murmu stated. He emphasised the forum's role as a strategic partner in advancing good governance and urged for an expansion of audit strategies to leverage data analytics and technology for more targeted and outcome-oriented recommendations, the release also said. Murmu also said that "Our world, interconnected as never before, demands our collective wisdom, our shared resolve, and our unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable development. The SAI20, with its collaborative commitment to accountable, economic, efficient, and effective governance, and a strategic partnership with our governments, has a crucial role to play." On the second day, Murmu's closing address underscored the importance of collaboration and continuity within the SAI20 community. He stressed that audits are not merely reflections of past performance but serve as roadmaps for future success. By integrating insights and suggestions derived from audits of climate change initiatives, SAIs are poised to significantly advance the battle against climate change. Murmu also highlighted the necessity for targeted interventions to address poverty and hunger, considering diverse population groups and their unique needs. SAI20 is an Engagement group of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) from the G20 countries. It aims to support its members in ensuring good governance and effective audit practices in alignment with the G20 agenda. Chaired by the SAI of the country holding the G20 presidency, SAI20 serves as a strategic partner in fostering sustainable development and addressing global challenges through collaboration and innovation, the release said. (ANI)
After a Congressional delegation from the United States Congress met with Tibetan spiritual leader in-exile Dalai Lama in Dharamshala, Tibetan leaders have reiterated a resolute stance on international support for Tibet and conveyed a pointed message to China. The US delegation, led by Congressman Michael McCaul met with Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama at his residence on Wednesday. Security Minister of the Tibetan Parliament-in-Exile, Dolma Gyari emphasised the significance of the visit, stating, "I think the message is loud and clear to China... that freedom-loving nations in the world, people who promote peace and justice, support Tibet." Gyari highlighted the symbolism of the timing, coinciding with the US Congressional delegation's presence alongside the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala. "This is a strong message of support from the American Congress and people for justice and the cause of the Tibetan people," she added. Reflecting on the auspiciousness of the visit, Gyari remarked, "What a good coincidence. This event has aligned with the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala and the visit of the US Congressional delegation, amidst various factors including the oracle's schedule." Tenzin Lekshay, spokesperson of the Tibetan government-in-exile, expressed jubilation over the delegation's visit and its potential impact, stating, "It is a very great moment for us. The high-level US Congressional delegation has already met His Holiness, followed by a public felicitation ceremony in the main temple courtyard." Lekshay underscored the delegation's support and solidarity, noting the progress of the Resolve Tibet Act in the US Congress, which awaits President Biden's signature. "This legislative support is crucial for us," he affirmed. Regarding China's reaction to international support for Tibet, Lekshay remarked, "Whenever we take steps forward, China expresses unhappiness. They should reflect on their actions in Tibet over the last several decades, which have prioritised their own interests over fulfilling Tibetan aspirations." He emphasised the need for resolution in the China-Tibet conflict to address Tibetan people's long-standing aspirations. Lekshay also acknowledged India's pivotal role in supporting Tibetan refugees, stating, "India has been the best host for us, and we are grateful to the Indian government and public. The Tibetan issue is not just a concern for Tibetans alone; India also has a stake in it, and awareness among the Indian populace is crucial." The visit comes amidst ongoing global attention to human rights issues in Tibet and growing international calls for dialogue and resolution. The Dalai Lama, a revered spiritual leader, has lived in exile in India since fleeing Tibet in 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese rule. The Congressional delegation arrived in India on Tuesday and. Last week, the US Congress passed a bill urging Beijing to re-engage with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders to peacefully resolve their dispute over the status and governance of Tibet. It also urged China to begin talks with the Dalai Lama, who is the spiritual leader of Tibet, and other Tibetan leaders about how Tibet is governed. No formal talks between the two sides have taken place since 2010. (ANI)
A Russian court has imposed a prison sentence on United States staff sergeant Gordon Black, amidst ongoing negotiations between Moscow and Washington over a potential prisoner swap deal, according to Russian State media. On Wednesday, the Pervomaisky District Court of Vladivostok sentenced Black to three years and nine months in a penal colony. According to state-run TASS and Sputnik, Black was convicted of stealing USD 113 from his girlfriend and threatening her life. "The ball is in the court of the United States, we are waiting for them to respond to the ideas that were presented to them," stated Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov to TASS, underscoring Russia's stance on the negotiations. The sentencing of Black is the latest in a series of cases involving US citizens detained in Russia, exacerbating already strained relations following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Among those detained include corporate security executive Paul Whelan, musician Travis Leake on drug-related charges, teacher Marc Fogel sentenced to 14 years for similar charges, and dual national Ksenia Khavana. Meanwhile, another case drew attention when Alsu Kurmasheva, a Radio Free Europe journalist with dual citizenship, had her pre-trial detention extended despite an appeal. She faces charges related to spreading "false information" about the military, as reported by Al Jazeera. Further complicating matters, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is set to undergo a closed-door trial on espionage charges, which he denies. In response to mounting international pressure and negotiations, Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier hinted at discussions for a potential prisoner swap involving Gershkovich. However, specific details regarding progress have not been disclosed by the Kremlin. "The Americans are well aware of the proposals made. If there are issues with the ideas, that's their problem," emphasised Ryabkov. The case of Gordon Black, aged 34, unfolded dramatically when he was arrested last month during a visit to Vladivostok, where he was seeing his Russian girlfriend Alexandra Vashuk. Vashuk accused Black of stealing 10,000 roubles and threatening her life. Black's defence has maintained his partial guilt in the theft but denies the charges of making death threats. In a courtroom scene portrayed by tension, Black, surrounded by his legal team, pleaded his case from within a glass enclosure. His family, including his wife and the mother of his child in Texas, has described the relationship with Vashuk as tumultuous. The narrative of their relationship, originating from a meeting on a dating app in South Korea in October 2022, saw Black invited to Vladivostok by Vashuk, diverging from his planned return to Fort Cavazos in Texas after service in South Korea. Critically, the Pentagon disclosed that Black had violated army regulations by traveling to Russia and China without authorisation, complicating his legal standing in the ongoing proceedings, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)
A coalition of human rights organisations, advocacy groups, and prominent individuals has penned a joint letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, urging the Australian Government to take decisive action against the ongoing persecution of Falun Gong practitioners in China. The letter, signed by 25 influential signatories, marks the 25th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party's campaign against Falun Gong, which began on July 20, 1999. Falun Gong, also known as Falun Dafa, is a spiritual practice rooted in Buddhist traditions, emphasising the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance. Since the crackdown started, millions of practitioners in China have faced severe human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings. Disturbingly, evidence indicates that Falun Gong practitioners are being killed to supply organs for China's state-sanctioned transplantation industry. Human rights organisations, international bodies, and governmental reports have extensively documented these abuses. In 2007, the US State Department highlighted that Falun Gong practitioners made up 66 percent of torture victims in Chinese government custody, as reported by UN Special Rapporteur on Torture Manfred Nowak. More recently, in 2021, 12 UN Special Rapporteurs raised credible evidence of forced organ harvesting with the Chinese Government The 2019 China Tribunal, an independent tribunal investigating forced organ harvesting, concluded that the practice has been ongoing for years on a large scale, with Falun Gong practitioners as a primary source of organs. In response to these atrocities, the United States sanctioned a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) official in 2021 for human rights violations against Falun Gong practitioners. The European Parliament has also taken a stand, passing a resolution in 2024 that urges China to cease the persecution of Falun Gong, Uyghurs, and Tibetans. This follows the US House Resolution 343, passed in 2016, demanding an end to the persecution of Falun Gong and the release of all practitioners and other prisoners of conscience. The joint letter calls on the Australian Government to pass a motion demanding an immediate end to the persecution of Falun Gong in China and the unconditional release of all detained practitioners and prisoners of conscience. It also asks to implement Magnitsky-style sanctions against those involved in the persecution and address the issue at the UN Human Rights Council and General Assembly. The signatories argue that Australia, as a signatory to international human rights treaties, has a moral and legal obligation to act. They urged Prime Minister Albanese to detail the measures the Australian Government will take to address these egregious human rights violations. The letter is signed by a diverse coalition of advocates, including Lucy Zhao of the Falun Dafa Association of Australia, Michelle Pearse of the Australian Christian Lobby, Rev Bob Fu of China Aid Association, and Dolkun Isa of the World Uyghur Congress, among others. (ANI)
China has been systematically changing the names of several villages in Xinjiang which have religious, historical, or cultural significance to the Uyghur community, Human Rights Watch reported on Wednesday. These names are being replaced with names reflecting the Chinese Communist Party ideology, it said. "The Chinese authorities have been changing hundreds of village names in Xinjiang from those rich in meaning for Uyghurs to those that reflect government propaganda. These name changes appear as part of Chinese government efforts to erase the cultural and religious expressions of Uyghurs," said Maya Wang, acting China director of the international non-governmental organization headquartered in New York City. The HRW conducted joint research with Norway-based organisation Uyghur Hjelp ("Uyghur help") and scraped names of villages in Xinjiang from the website of the National Bureau of Statistics of China between 2009 and 2023. This research found that the names of about 3,600 of the 25,000 villages have been changed during these years. Some of these changed names appear to be mundane or a mere correction of previous names given incorrectly. But 630, of these changed names involve changes related to religion, culture, or history. According to the HRW report, any mentions of religion, including Islamic terms, such as Hoja, a title for a Sufi religious teacher, and haniqa a type of Sufi religious building, have been removed, along with mentions of shamanism, such as baxshi, a shaman. Additionally, any mentions of Uyghur history, including the names of its kingdoms, republics, and local leaders prior to the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, and words such as orda, which means "palace," sultan, and beg, which are political or honorific titles, have also been changed. The authorities also removed terms in village names that denote Uyghur cultural practices, such as mazar, shrine, and dutar, a two-stringed lute at the heart of Uyghur musical culture. While the renaming of villages appears ongoing, most of these changes occurred between 2017 and 2019, when the Chinese government's crimes against humanity escalated in the region, mostly in Kashgar, Aksu, and Hotan. Uyghur Help the partner in the joint research by the HRW interviewed 11 individuals to assess the impact of these changed names. In one case, a person after being released from a re-education camp found it difficult to reach back home after the name of the village was changed as no tickets could be issued to the village by which she remembered her hometown. Another villager said he wrote a poem and commissioned a song to commemorate all the lost locations around where he had lived. While quoting Article 27 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which China has signed but not ratified the HRW report claimed "In those States in which ethnic, religious or linguistic minorities exist, persons belonging to such minorities shall not be denied the right, in community with the other members of their group, to enjoy their own culture, to profess and practice their own religion, or to use their own language." Previously in May 2014, the Chinese government launched the "Strike Hard Campaign against Violent Terrorism" in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Since 2017, the Chinese government has carried out a widespread and systematic attack against Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslims in Xinjiang. It includes mass arbitrary detention, torture, enforced disappearances, mass surveillance, cultural and religious persecution, separation of families, forced labour, sexual violence, and violations of reproductive rights. Human Rights Watch in 2021 concluded that these violations constituted crimes against humanity. The Chinese government has continued to conflate Uyghurs' everyday religious and cultural practices, and their expressions of identity, with violent extremism to justify violations against them. In April 2017, the Chinese government promulgated the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Regulation on De-extremification, which prohibits "the propagation of religious fervour with abnormal ... names." "Authorities reportedly banned dozens of personal names with religious connotations common to Muslims around the world, such as Saddam and Medina, on the basis that they could "exaggerate religious fervour.", the HRW report claimed. (ANI)
As per the release from the Indian Embassy, the celebration began early in the morning with a series of yoga sessions led by experienced instructors, showcasing a range of asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation techniques.

"Participants were guided through the physical and mental benefits of each practice, emphasising the holistic approach of Yoga to physical and mental health.

The Embassy of India also organised a yoga demonstration and health consultation with Ayurvedic practitioners in association with Pokhara University," the release further stated.

Prof Prem Narayan Aryal, Vice Chancellor, Pokhara University graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The Vice-Chancellor thanked the Embassy of India for organising the event and encouraged the student participants to explore the benefits of Yoga in order to lead mindful and healthy lives.

Reputed Yoga instructors delivered lectures on the benefits of Yoga and its practical utility in day-to-day life, especially for the youth.

The students and faculty of Pokhara University also benefitted from expert consultations from reputed Ayurveda experts who provided valuable insights and advice on incorporating Ayurveda and Yoga into daily life.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from the local community, including officials of local administration, members of various local Yoga organisations, retired Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Army and staff members of the Embassy's Pension Paying Office (PPO) in Pokhara, who joined in to promote the ancient practice of Yoga for health and well-being, according to a release from Indian Embassy in Nepal. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], June 19 (ANI/TPS): Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday issued a statement made to his coalition partners, telling them to "get a hold of themselves." The statement came after coalition partners complained about laws that were arranged to be passed in the coalition agreement were shelved. "We are fighting on several fronts and face great challenges and difficult decisions," said Netanyahu. "Therefore, I demand that all coalition partners get a hold of themselves and rise to the importance of the hour." "This is not the time for petty politics or for legislation that endangers the coalition, which is fighting for victory over our enemies," he added. "We must all focus solely on the tasks at hand: Defeating Hamas, returning all of our hostages and returning our residents securely to their homes, both in the north and the south." Netanyahu went on to demand that all of his 64 coalition members (out of 120) in the Knesset "put aside every other consideration. Put aside all extraneous interests. Line up, as one, together, behind our fighters." (ANI/TPS)
The discovery of a large, 1,650-year-old public building and a hoard of coins at an excavation in Lod provides the first compelling evidence of the little-known Gallus Revolt against Rome, the Israel Antiquities Authority announced on Sunday. The 94 silver and bronze coins, dating from 221 to 354 CE, were hidden in the building's foundations and likely intended to be retrieved once the turmoil subsided. The most recent coins correspond to the Gallus Revolt (351-354 CE), marking the building's destruction during this turbulent period. Historical texts, though sparse, mention that significant Jewish communities, including Lod, Zipori, and Tiberias, faced severe destruction by the forces of Roman Caesar Flavius Constantinus Gallus. This revolt occurred around 351-352 CE, two centuries after the better-known Bar Kochba revolt. The Gallus Revolt was more localized to the Galilee and was the last Jewish uprising against the Roman Empire. The building, adorned with impressive stone and marble artifacts, contained inscriptions in Greek, Hebrew, and Latin. One inscription, currently under study, bears the name of a Jewish man from a priestly family. The absence of pig bones among the site's bone assemblage further indicates the building's Jewish origins. Excavation leaders Shahar Krispin and Mor Viezel of the Antiquities Authority suggested that the building served as a significant Jewish communal center. "In all likelihood, this is a magnificent Jewish building that housed the city's elders," Krispin and Viezel said, noting that historical records from the Talmud mention Lod as a crucial Jewish center following the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. "The building's destruction down to its foundation indicates that the revolt was suppressed with significant violence and was not merely a local uprising," they stressed. "This discovery is a singular witness to the extent and power of the revolt in Lod, located in the country's center." According to Prof Joshua Schwartz, chairman of the Antiquities Authority's board, "The building's size, the coin hoard, and the array of archaeological finds fit well with Lod/Diospolis' description in both Jewish and non-Jewish sources as a center of Torah-true Jewish life during the Mishna and Talmud periods. Lod's role as a leading community with elders continued from after the destruction through to the moment it was cruelly cut down in the Gallus Revolt." Lod Mayor Yair Revivo called the discovery "an emotionally moving find." Said Revivo, "The findings prove that Lod is one of the oldest cities in the world. We thank the Israel Antiquities Authority for revealing our city's past glory." (ANI/TPS)
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) announced in a statement released on Wednesday that the ongoing protest at Shaheed Fida Chowk in Turbat, Balochistan, will persist until victims of enforced disappearances are safely released. The BYC stated that despite promises from the local administration regarding the safe return of the disappeared individuals, there has been no response from the current authorities. In a post on 'X', the BYC stated, "Eid has come and gone, but Baloch families continue to protest at Shaheed Fida Chowk Turbat, demanding the safe return of their loved ones who have been missing since Eid. The District Administration had falsely assured them of their loved ones' release before. Now, no state authority has come forward to address their demands." According to the BYC statement, the protestors include families of victims of enforced disappearances such as Fateh son of Nako Mayar, Muslim son of Arif, Jahanzaib son of Faisal, Nisar Karim, Rafiq son of Dil Muraad, Meeras Hussain, and Jan Mohammad son of Allah Dad, all missing since 2023. The BYC also called upon the international community to show solidarity on the issue and demanded the release of all Baloch individuals who have been forcibly disappeared. The statement further emphasized, "The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) appeals to the Baloch community to stand in solidarity with the victims' families. BYC demands the safe release of all individuals who have been enforcely disappeared by state authorities, and held in undisclosed locations without trial or due process of law. The international community and human rights organisations must open their eyes and raise their voices against the state's atrocities." (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with a bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by Congressman Michael McCaul on Wednesday. He appreciated their "strong and continued" support for the strategic partnership between India and the US. The US Congressional delegation includes former US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, US Representatives - Gregory Meeks, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Nicole Malliotakis, Ami Bera and Jim McGovern. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Pleasure to meet with the bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by @RepMcCaul. Thank @SpeakerPelosi, @RepGregoryMeeks, @RepMMM, @NMalliotakis, @RepBera and @RepMcGovern for joining. Appreciate their strong and continued support for the strategic partnership." The US Congressional delegation, which arrived in India on Tuesday, was received by officials of the Central Tibetan Administration at Himachal Pradesh's Kangra Airport. Upon arrival, the US lawmakers headed to Dharamshala to meet Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. On Wednesday, the high-level US Congressional delegation, led by US Congressman Michael McCaul, met Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama at his residence in Dharamshala. Before meeting the Dalai Lama, the US delegates attended a public felicitation programme at the main Tibetan temple. The disciples of the Dalai Lama were also seen in the temple complex this morning. Children performed and displayed Tibetan culture at the felicitation ceremony in the courtyard of the Tsuglagkhang Complex in Dharamshala. During their meeting at his residence in Dharamshala today, McCaul presented Dalai Lama with a framed copy of The Resolve Tibet Act, a bipartisan bill passed by the US Congress to enhance US support for Tibet. Last week, the US Congress passed a bill urging Beijing to re-engage with the Dalai Lama and other Tibetan leaders to peacefully resolve their dispute over the status and governance of Tibet. The legislation rejects Beijing's stance that Tibet has been part of China since ancient times and urges China to "cease its propagation of disinformation about the history of Tibet, the Tibetan people, and Tibetan institutions, including that of the Dalai Lama," Radio Free Asia reported. The Dalai Lama presented Buddha Statue to Pelosi at the end of the meeting with the US Congressional delegation, the office of the Dalai Lama said. The members of the US Congressional delegation also posed for a group photo with the Tibetan spiritual leader after their meeting. (ANI)
The Consulate General of India, Toronto on Wednesday (local time) announced to organise a memorial service for victims of the Air India 'Kanishka' flight bombing in Toronto on June 23 from 12-1 pm at South Lawns, Queen's Park. India has always been at the forefront of the fight against terrorism and opposed the justification and glorification of terrorism, India's Consulate General in Toronto said, as it reminded the world of the Kanishka bombing and termed it "one of the most heinous acts of terror in civil aviation." The Consulate General of India in Toronto said that an annual memorial service is being held at South Lawns, Queen's Park, in Toronto to mark the 39th anniversary of the bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), which claimed the lives of 329 people, including 82 children. In a statement shared on X, the Consulate General of India in Toronto stated, "India has always been at the forefront of the fight against terrorism and has opposed justification and glorification of terrorism. 23 June 2024 marks the 39th anniversary of the bombing of Air India flight 182 (Kanishka), which resulted in death of 329 innocent victims, including 86 children, and remains one of the most heinous acts of terror in civil aviation." "We have always stood firmly with the families of the victims. The annual memorial service is being held from 12-1 pm, 23 June 2024 at South Lawns, Queen's Park, Toronto. This event is open for public participation. The solemnity of the occasion may be respected during the memorial service at all times," it added. On June 23, 1985, Air India 182 Kanishka flight, flying on Montreal, Canada-London, UK-Delhi, India route, exploded mid-air over the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Ireland, due to "cowardly act of terror, carried out by Canada based Khalistani terrorists," Indian High Commission in Ottawa had said in a press release in 2023. The memorial service is being hosted by India amid strained ties with Canada over the issue of Khalistani terrorists. The ties between the two nations have been strained after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged in September last year that Indian agents were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has dismissed the allegations, calling them "absurd and motivated." Nijjar, who was designated a terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency in 2020, was shot and killed outside a Gurdwara in Surrey in June last year. Earlier in May, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar once again denied receiving any evidence implicating Indian nationals' involvement in the killing in Canada of India-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Responding to media queries here, Jaishankar stated, "I also read that another arrest has been made. If that person is an Indian national, then usually by consular practice, you inform the government or the embassy of the country of origin. But beyond that, we have long maintained that if anything, any event in Canada, any violence in Canada, has any evidence or information which is relevant to be investigated in India, we are open to investigating it." He emphasised that while any Indian national's arrest would usually prompt notification to the government or embassy, no specific evidence justifying investigation by Indian agencies has been received to date. "But to date, we have never received anything which is specific and worthy of being pursued by our investigative agencies. And I'm not aware anything has changed in the last few days in that regard," the External Affairs Minister said at a media interaction at a seminar on Indian Capital Markets 'Roadmap for Viksit Bharat' at the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in Mumbai. He made the remarks after the Canadian police arrested a fourth suspect over his alleged involvement in the killing of Nijjar, CBC News reported. The accused was identified as Amandeep Singh (22). (ANI)
Canada on Wednesday (local time) listed Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code after years of mounting pressure. Canada's Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, Dominic LeBlanc announced the decision. In a press release, the Canadian government said, "Based on their actions, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the IRGC has knowingly carried out, attempted to carry out, participated in or facilitated a terrorist activity, or has knowingly acted on behalf of, at the direction of, or in association with an entity that has knowingly carried out terrorist activity. Listing the IRGC means that they are a terrorist group." It said that the decision to designate the IRGC through the Criminal Code listing regime sends a strong message that Canada will use all tools at its disposal to combat the terrorist activity of the IRGC, "conducted both unilaterally and in knowing association with listed terrorist entities such as Hizballah and Hamas." In a press release, the Canadian government said, "As a now-listed entity, the IRGC meets the definition of a "terrorist group" under Canada's Criminal Code. As an immediate consequence of this listing, Canadian financial institutions, such as banks and brokerages, are required to immediately freeze the property of a listed entity. It is a criminal offence for anyone in Canada and Canadians abroad to knowingly deal with property owned or controlled by a terrorist group." In a statement, Dominic LeBlanc said that the Iranian regime has demonstrated a complete disregard for human rights, both inside and outside Iran. LeBlanc said, "The Iranian regime has consistently displayed a complete disregard for human rights, both inside and outside Iran, as well as a willingness to destabilize the international rules-based order." "Listing the IRGC builds on the Government of Canada's broader efforts to ensure that there is no impunity for Iran's unlawful actions and its support of terrorism. Our government will always promote human rights and take action against those seeking to disrupt our way of life, here in Canada and around the world," he added. This latest development comes after years of pressure on the federal government to designate the IRGC as a terrorist entity. According to a CBC News report, the IRGC is a branch of the Iranian armed forces that reports directly to Iran's supreme leader. Earlier in 2020, the IRGC shot down Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 above the skies of Tehran, claiming the lives of 175 passengers, including 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents, CBC News reported. Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister, Melanie Joly, warned that Canadians in Iran might face a heightened risk of arbitrary detention after the announcement on Wednesday. Joly said, "For those who are in Iran right now, it's time to come back home. And for those who are planning to go to Iran, don't go." The association representing family members of Flight PS752 victims, members of the Iranian Canadian community, the Conservative Party and the NDP have urged the Canadian government to designate the entire militia group as a terrorist entity, according to CBC News report. Hamed Esmaeilion, a board member with the Association of Families of Flight PS752 Victims, said the families were happy to know that the government is moving forward with this designation after they had raised the demand for it at every rally and event they held over the past four years. Esmaeilion, who lost his wife and daughter on Flight PS752, said, "It has been a long journey. Long and painful." Esmaeilion further said, "It's very important to punish those people or those organisations that were involved in atrocities against Canadians and Iranians." Conservative foreign affairs critic Michael Chong said his party has been urging the government to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation for six years. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre reiterated his demand to list the IRGC as a terrorist entity after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7. On January 8, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau told victims' families at a ceremony on the fourth anniversary of the destruction of the plane that his government was looking at ways to "responsibly" move forward with that designation, CBC News reported. He had said, "We know there is more to do to hold the regime to account and we will continue our work, including continuing to look for ways to responsibly list the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. His remarks came after the government for years explained its decision to not designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], June 20 (ANI/TPS): The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Wednesday night released a statement declaring its commitment to achieving the goals of the war in Gaza as defined by the government of Israel and that it has been working in this way "throughout the war day and night and will continue to do so." "The commanders of the IDF and their soldiers fight with determination and persistence to destroy the military capabilities and the governmental and organizational infrastructure of Hamas in Gaza, a distinct military goal," it added. The statement came after Israel's inner Security Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, defined the destruction of Hamas terrorist organization's military and governing capabilities as one of the goals of the Iron Swords War in Gaza. The comments caused a bit of controversy. This came after comments made by the Israel Defense Forces' Spokesman Daniel Hagari who said that Hamas cannot be defeated. On that, the IDF said, "In his words, the IDF spokesman referred to the destruction of Hamas as an ideology and an idea, and the words were said by him in a clear and explicit manner. Any other claim is taking things out of context." In an interview with Israeli television, Daniel Hagari said, "the idea of destroying Hamas is simply throwing sand in the eyes of the public." "Hamas is an idea. Hamas is a party," added the IDF Spokesman. "It is rooted in the hearts of the people - whoever thinks we can eliminate Hamas is wrong. It is the Muslim Brotherhood, it has been in the area for many, many years." (ANI/TPS)
A United States serviceman stands guard on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, as supplies are unloaded from a U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo plane on the tarmac at Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The plane was carrying supplies for the camp being built for Kenyan police officers who will lead a Multinational Security Support mission into Haiti.

After months of being blocked by Republican lawmakers from funding an armed security mission to Haiti, Secretary of State Antony Blinken has directed the State Department to proceed with $109 million in funding to help special-forces cops from Kenya deploy to Haiti to help the countrys beleaguered national police battle armed gangs.

Blinkens decision, which has become known as the nuclear option, overrides a Republican hold on the funds, which along with several court challenges in Nairobi has delayed the missions deployment. With Blinkens authorization, there is not only money to purchase equipment a Kenyan security assessment team has said is needed prior to the officers arrival in Port-au-Prince, it also sends a strong signal to other nations.

By moving forward with the obligation of resources, the Secretary is also indicating to other countries the sincerity and seriousness of our commitment, in part to incentivize others to increase their own contributions to the mission, a senior State Department official told the Miami Herald.

At least six other nations, including Jamaica and Benin, have told the United Nations they plan to send their own police officers as part of the the mission. Yet the countries have been slow to either provide equipment or put money in a mission trust fund managed by the U.N.

This has left the U.S., which has pledged $300 million, shouldering most of the burden. However, while the Defense Department has had no issues with securing its $200 million in funding, the State Department has hit congressional roadblocks after requesting $50 million of the $100 million it pledged.

On Capitol Hill, aides to two GOP lawmakers, Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas and Sen. Jim Risch of Idaho, have questioned the plan while their bosses have refused to lift the block on the State Departments request. Last month, the lawmakers also blasted President Joe Biden for authorizing a $60 million military aid package using what is called Presidential Drawdown Authority to get rifles and ammunition into the hands of the Haiti National Police, and to help the Kenya-led force to deploy.

Despite those efforts, hopes for a deployment last month were dashed after a Kenyan assessment team, visiting Port-au-Prince to review the countrys readiness to receive the mission, said there were not enough armored vehicles to move the foreign troops around, and a deficit of radios and communications equipment. The team also pointed out the need for helicopters to evacuate casualties.

The State Department official said the $109 million will help cover equipment, and the U.S. government has been able to provide additional vehicles and radios through various sources to address some of the issues raised and to enable the mission to grow to its full capacity and be sustained over time. Though the mission is expected to have as many as 2,500 personnel, police officers will be deployed in phases.

Without providing specifics, the State Department official said the new funding is critical to enable the success of the Multinational Security Support mission, or MSS, and for the Haiti National Police to battle gang violence.

Since Feb. 29, powerful gangs have led a deadly rampage throughout Port-au-Prince, the countrys capital. Theyve taken over police stations, attacked key government infrastructure and forced more than 100,000 people to flee their homes. Though there is currently a lull in the coordinated attacks that blanketed the capital for nearly three months, over the weekend 11 people were massacred by members of an armed gang in a rural town north of Port-au-Prince in the Artibonite Valley.

The people of Haiti cannot wait and Secretary Blinken made the necessary decision to follow through with our commitment to support the MSS mission, the personnel deploying to the mission and the HNP [Haiti National Police] in their efforts to provide security to the Haitian people, the State Department official said. Of course, we remain committed to close consultation with Congress.

The repeated delays have led to doubts about whether the mission will actually happen. Though U.S. officials have declined to provide a date, citing security concerns, they insist that deployment will happen soonm , based on assurances from the Kenyan government. The government, which now faces a new court challenge over the deployment, has said the litigation should not affect the police officers arrival.

The Multinational Security Support mission, which Kenya first volunteered to lead almost a year ago in July, was first approved by the U.N. Security Council in October.
An initiative aimed at repealing a landmark California law that gave workers the right to sue their employers for themselves and other workers will stay off the November ballot following an agreement reached by labor and business groups with Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Among other changes, the deal aims to reform the two-decade old Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) by capping penalties on employers who act quickly to adjust practices, increasing the penalty share of payments for workers, allowing courts to issue injunctions to force businesses to fix labor violations and requiring workers to experience firsthand the alleged violations they site in a claim, the Governors Office said Tuesday in a news release announcing the agreement.

We came to the table and hammered out a deal that works for both businesses and workers, and it will bring needed improvements to this system, Newsom said in a statement. This proposal maintains strong protections for workers, provides incentives for businesses to comply with labor laws and reduces litigation.

The agreement to reform PAGA avoids a contentious ballot measure campaign, the administrations press release noted.

The deal was hailed by labor unions and business leaders.

We are happy to have negotiated a deal that preserves PAGA and improves upon it, by adding injunctive relief to end abusive practices and incentivizing employers to come into compliance and make workers whole, said Lorena Gonzalez, principal officer of the California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO. PAGA is an essential tool to hold corporations accountable for widespread wage theft, safety violations, and misclassification.

Jennifer Barrera, President & CEO of the California Chamber of Commerce, urged quick passage of the agreement by the Legislature.

This package provides meaningful reforms that ensure workers continue to have a strong vehicle to get labor claims resolved, while also limiting the frivolous litigation that has cost employers billions without benefiting workers, Barrera said.

A coalition of labor organizations, worker advocacy and attorneys groups said in a press release that the agreement protects workers right to hold abusive employers accountable through PAGA, and incentivizes employers to treat their workers with the dignity and respect they deserve while increasing penalties for the most abusive employers.

Though weve successfully negotiated a dangerous measure off the November ballot  we can only hope that this deal encourages more employers to follow the law and pay their workers what they are owed, said Kathryn Stebner, president of Consumer Attorneys of California.

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, D-Salinas, said the hard-earned agreement protects both workers and recognizes companies that follow labor laws, while beefing up enforcement.

I grew up watching farmworkers and employers find common ground, so it means a lot to me that so many groups came together and found consensus, he said.

The November ballot initiative would have repealed PAGA, which allowed employees to file lawsuits on behalf of themselves and other employees against employers to recover monetary penalties for certain state labor-law violations, according to the Secretary of States website.

A summary by the Legislative Analysts Office and the Department of Finance of the fiscal impact of the initiative on state and local governments noted that the measure would likely increase state costs to enforce labor laws by more than $100 million per year. And, it would reduce the states penalty revenue used for labor law enforcement by tens of millions of dollars annually.

Once the Legislature approves the bill reflecting the deal and Newsom signs it, proponents of the businesses backed initiative will then withdraw the ballot measure. The bill would have to be signed by the governor by June 27, the deadline for the Secretary of State to certify ballot measures for the November general election.
DNA testing has confirmed that the severed arm found in May on a Waukegan, Illinois, beach belonged to Sade Robinson, the 19-year-old Milwaukee woman killed and dismembered in early April.

Officials had reached out to Robinson's family in May to inform them of the discovery, but they awaited DNA test results that could definitively say the arm was Robinson's.

The Lake County Coroners Office in Illinois learned of the results from the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office on Tuesday. The sheriff's office has shared the update with Robinson's family, the coroner's office said.

Sheena Scarbrough, mother of Sade Robinson, from left; Carlos Robinson, father of Sade Robinson; and Adrianna Reams, sister of Sade Robinson, prepare to release doves in memory Sade Robinson at her public memorial service on May 10 at the Baird Center in Milwaukee.

"I want to express our sincere condolences to Sades family and friends who continue to endure this tragic loss," Coroner Jennifer Banek said in a statement.

Sheena Scarbrough, Robinson's mother, said in a statement that she is "devastated and feels like her heart is being cut out as she is constantly tortured with this accumulating news of her daughter's heinous murder."

A photo of Sade Robinson is seen at a memorial where friends and family, along with other community members, left various items such as poster, flowers, and stuffed animals at a memorial set up at Pizza Shuttle on April 19 in Milwaukee. Robinson worked at Pizza Shuttle on Milwaukee's east side for three years.

A person walking along Waukegan Municipal Beach discovered the arm on May 11.

It follows other human remains confirmed to be Robinsons that have been found in the Milwaukee County area. The first, a leg, was discovered at Warnimont Park in Cudahy on April 2. More body parts believed to be Robinsons were discovered in the following days, including an arm and a torso along a stretch of beach in South Milwaukee.

Maxwell Anderson, 33, is charged with killing Robinson after the two went on a first date. Prosecutors say Anderson dismembered her before trying to hide her remains in Lake Michigan and across the Milwaukee area.

Robinson has been remembered as a driven young woman who had recently traveled to Jamaica and was studying criminal justice at Milwaukee Area Technical College. She had worked at Pizza Shuttle on Milwaukee's east side for three years, never missing a shift.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: DNA test confirms arm found on Waukegan beach was Sade Robinson's
Lynn Helms, director of the North Dakota Department of Natural Resources, speaks during an Energy Development and Transmission Committee meeting at the Capitol on April 10, 2024. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

A new Bureau of Land Management methane rule threatens to violate thousands of existing agreements between the federal agency and property owners, Department of Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms testified Tuesday in federal court.

Helms, testifying on his last day before retirement, said North Dakota stands to lose $2.1 million a year in tax revenue under the new rule, and that the policy will lead to roughly 85 wells in the state to be shut down and abandoned.

The rule is in complete conflict with the states gas flaring regulations, Helms said.

North Dakota, Wyoming, Texas and Montana in April filed a lawsuit against the Department of Interior in the U.S. District Court of North Dakota arguing the new rule is an expensive and unlawful regulatory burden. Utah later joined as a plaintiff.

Attorneys representing the states in a Tuesday hearing before U.S. District Court Judge Dan Traynor argued that enforcement of the rule should be suspended as the case proceeds.

The states claim the BLM is trying to commandeer regulatory authority over flaring and air pollution that belongs to the Environmental Protection Agency and state governments.

The BLMs new rule will require oil operators to do more to avoid wasting natural gas, like cutting down on venting and flaring and taking extra measures to detect and fix gas leaks.

Attorneys for the federal government during Tuesdays hearing said the purpose of the new rule, in part, is to make gas flaring practices across the country more uniform.

The regulations also expand operators obligations to pay royalties to the federal government and tribal mineral owners when they flare gas. Based on the BLMs own estimate, the new rule will generate more than $50 million per year in royalties.

The plaintiff states say the rule is the reincarnation of a 2016 waste management policy vacated by a Wyoming U.S. District Court judge four years ago.

That judge found the BLM had veered from its established practices and overstepped its regulatory authority. In that case, the judge denied the plaintiffs request for a preliminary injunction.

The federal government argued Tuesday that the new rule is much more modest than the 2016 policy. The text of the 2024 rule does acknowledge it was crafted to avoid some of the Wyoming courts criticisms of the previous rule.

Both sides appeared to agree that the 2024 rule is expected to be much less costly to states.

The Wyoming judges 2020 order notes the BLM estimated that the previous rule would cost about $114-$279 million per year nationally.

Traynor did not appear convinced the 2024 rule is meaningfully different, however.

How is this not the same thing with a different paint job? he said during the hearing.

Attorneys for the federal government disagreed that the rules were incompatible with state regulations.

They also pushed back on the accusation that the agency was retroactively changing contracts with mineral owners. They said existing agreements include provisions recognizing the BLMs authority to prevent the loss of gas through flaring.

The rules of the road have not changed, its only the sign posting thats gotten more consistent, Erik Van de Stouwe, an attorney for the federal government, said.

Van de Stouwe accused the states of unfairly characterizing the rule as a climate-change policy based on clandestine motives, when it really is about royalties and preventing the unnecessary loss of natural gas loss.

He also noted that no operators have challenged the methane rule.

Traynor asked Van de Stouwe whether the BLM had consulted with the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation about the policy considering the significant oil and gas production on the Fort Berthold reservation. There are more than 2,600 active oil and gas wells on the reservation, according to the state Oil and Gas Division, and another 2,000 could be drilled in the future.

If theres a harm, its going to harm Native people more than anyone else, Traynor said.

Van de Stouwe said he believed the BLM did reach out to the MHA Nation for feedback on the rule.

MHA Nation Chair Mark Fox did not return a request for comment by publication time.

North Dakota produced an average of nearly 3.5 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day in April, according to preliminary figures from the state.

Ninety-five percent of that gas was captured, which exceeds the North Dakota Industrial Commissions target of 91%.

The post North Dakota oil regulator argues for suspension of federal methane rule appeared first on North Dakota Monitor.
Royal tomb in Benin has traces of human blood on its walls, hinting at human sacrifice, study finds

Modern Benin is a center of the original African religion of voodoo or vodun, which featured rituals with animal sacrifices. | Credit: jbdodane/Alamy

Nearly 200 years ago, human blood is said to have been incorporated into a ceremonial tomb built within a royal palace complex in what is now Benin, according to legend. Now, an investigation into the proteins found within the tomb's walls reveals evidence that the legend is true.

According to a new study, the tomb at Abomey, once the capital of the West African kingdom of Dahomey, contains proteins that could have come only from human blood, confirming the site's grisly history.

It's one of the first times such a discovery has been made through "paleoproteomics," the study of trace proteins left behind in archaeological contexts.

"This discovery is important, as it provides concrete evidence of historical rituals and practices," biochemist Jean Armengaud , an expert on ancient proteins at France's Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission, told Live Science.

Armengaud is the senior author of the new study, which was published May 29 in the journal Proteomics . He and his colleagues examined samples taken at the tomb between 2018 and 2022, during excavations at the site by archaeologists from France and Benin.

Related: 7 extraordinary African kingdoms from ancient times to centuries ago

According to local lore, the tomb within the Abomey palace complex  built in the 19th century by King Ghezo of Dahomey, in honor of his brother King Adandozan  used plaster that included the blood of 41 human sacrifices; 41 was considered a sacred number, the authors wrote in the study.

Two images of the tomb walls. They have a red tint.

Dahomey king

Ghezo, who ruled from 1818 until 1858, famously led several military expeditions against the region's powerful Yoruba state, or Oyo Empire, and thereby ended the Dahomey kingdom's annual tribute of slaves.

He was considered a powerful ruler and reportedly showcased the deaths of his foes to secure his reign. According to historical accounts, the path to his hut was paved with the skulls and jawbones of defeated enemies, and one of his thrones stood on the skulls of four enemy leaders.

Dahomey, now called Benin after the nearby Bight (or Bay) of Benin, is a center of the original African Vodun or Vodou religion that was developed in the Caribbean region. Traditional Vodun often features sacrifices of animal blood.

King Ghezo illustration. He stands in a formal coat with a crown, sword and scepter.

Distinctive proteins

The researchers applied a technique called tandem mass spectrometry to proteins contained in samples of the wall of the tomb, which consists of two round huts joined together. The method breaks down ions into fragments to reveal their chemical structure.

Their study yielded more than 10,000 matches in a database of proteins that identified the presence of thousands of microorganisms, as well as both human and chicken blood.

"Since proteins are more stable molecules compared to DNA, paleoproteomics can provide extensive information about the organisms that produced these proteins in ancient times," Armengaud said.

The results show clearly that human blood was one of the substances in the wall  in line with historical accounts, never verified until now, that claimed blood from human sacrifices was mixed with "red oil" and sacred water to make the plaster.

In this case, Armengaud said, the paleoproteomic study was preferable to a paleogenomic study with ancient DNA, which might detect genetic material from individuals, such as the people who built the structure, without determining how they were involved.

But paleoproteomics and paleogenomics can also complement each other. Armengaud hopes DNA sequencing of samples from the Abomey tomb can identify the number of sacrificial victims and their origins, thereby providing a more detailed historical context.

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Matthew Collins , an archaeologist at the University of Cambridge who wasn't involved in the latest study, told Live Science that the research showed how proteomics could be applied in complex and challenging situations.

"If you were using DNA, then you could tell that certain species were present  but what you couldn't determine is the type of tissues that were involved," he said. "But here you've got evidence of tissue proteins associated with human blood."
The Government of Antigua & Barbuda has deferred the issue of legalizing abortions when a mothers life is not endangered to a law court after the countrys evangelical alliance opposed moves by pro-choice campaigners claiming that the countrys historic abortion laws are unconstitutional.

Gynecologist Dr. Dane Abbott filed a constitutional lawsuit with other pro-choice campaigners before Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin on June 10. The case is reportedly due to be heard at Antigua and Barbudas High Court this September.

Antigua & Barbuda Government Cabinet spokesman Lionel Max Hurst would not comment in detail on the proceedings pending the outcome of the court hearing.

Since this matter is before the judiciary, the executive will not comment on it. But we're leaving it to the people of Antigua and Babila, and the churches especially in Antigua and Babila, for them to determine what is reasonable and what is not. And the people of Antigua and Babila will be so guided, Hurst reportedly said. But at the moment, the law remains as is, until and unless there is an order coming from the higher courts that will compel us.

Hurst said that the government would be listening to everyone but any decisions made by lawmakers would depend on the outcome of the lawsuit.

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That is, the executive will act on the basis of what the court orders, and the legislature will very likely follow the same route, he asserted.

Under current laws, namely the Offences Against the Person Act 1895, Part IX (Attempts to Procure Abortion), any woman being with child, who unlawfully takes poison or other noxious thing or any instrument, or any other means to cause a miscarriage is guilty of felony and faces up to 10 years in prison, with or without hard labor.

The Infant Life (Preservation) Act 1937 carries the same sentence for anyone who causes a child to die before it has an existence independent of its mother. The only exception is if the mothers life is in danger.

The President of the Antigua & Barbuda Evangelical Alliance (ABEA), The Rev. Olson Daniel, told Antigua Observer Newspaper that peaceful protests against the measure were being considered.

The Evangelical Alliance is of the very strong persuasion that what the Bible says is what we should live by  that somebody is not just somebody when they are born, Daniel reportedly told the newspaper. They are from the very inception in the womb. This case was filed by a practitioner who, of course, if hes given the rights to abortion, it will be for his or for their financial gain.

Now, if our birth rate is less than two percent, it means that the nation would be underpopulated. If the death rate stays constant or escalates and the birth rate reduces, do the math, in the next 20, 30, 40 years, whats the population going to be?

Additionally, you also look at the whole idea of who will be continuing to support Social Security.

In July 2022, a group of church pastors, bishops and other religious leaders, known as Kingdom Leaders issued a public statement anticipating that the issue of abortion would be debated in parliament in the near future.

Every Spirit-led member of this body, Kingdom Leaders, is strongly opposed to elective abortion for personal or social convenience, convinced that such is contrary to the will and the commandments of God. The body, therefore, says that any facilitation of or support for this kind of abortion is categorically abhorrent, deviant, and sinful, said the Kingdom Leaders statement.
Satellite images show Russia is putting ships in the path of Ukraine's naval drones to protect Putin's prize, but it's likely not enough

Ukraine has vowed to destroy the strategic Kerch Bridge linking Russia to occupied Crimea.

Russia has attempted to protect the bridge with barges and floating boom defenses.

But Ukraine has demonstrated that it can innovate and adapt to defensive measures in the Black Sea.

Russia has placed barges and other defenses around a major bridge connecting it to the occupied Crimean Peninsula, recent satellite images show. The efforts appear to be a bid to protect the structure from Ukraine's vaunted fleet of exploding naval drones.

The Kerch Bridge  Russian President Vladimir Putin's prized accomplishment and a symbol of the Kremlin's desire to maintain its grip on Crimea forever  has already fallen victim to several high-profile Ukrainian attacks, including a naval drone strike.

Past efforts to protect the bridge have been ineffective, and as Ukraine continues to innovate with its highly effective naval drone programs, Russia's new defensive barriers may not be enough to prevent further attacks.

Britain's defense ministry said recently that Russia started placing barges as barriers on the southern side of the 12-mile-long bridge, which connects Russia to Crimea and facilitates military and economic activity, in early May. Satellite imagery captured May 23 and published by the UK government revealed multiple barges in place.

The defense ministry said in a June 8 intelligence update that "these barges were placed by Russian forces in an attempt to defend the bridge and shipping channel, reducing the angles of approach for Ukrainian unmanned surface vehicles." It added that the "previously installed barriers have been damaged by storms, reducing their effectiveness."

Eight barges could be seen parallel to the southern side of the Kerch Bridge in May 23 imagery. UK Ministry of Defense

By June 8, more than two weeks after the images were taken, the protective measures had swelled to include several additional barges and floating boom defenses that run parallel to the bridge, according to satellite imagery captured by Maxar Technologies and then obtained by Business Insider.

To allow for ships to pass through the defenses and under the bridge, the barges give way to an opening, and the floating booms curve inward toward the structure underneath its arch.

Floating boom defenses and additional barges could be seen in imagery from June 8. Satellite image 2024 Maxar Technologies.

Whether these new defenses are able to effectively prevent Ukraine's naval drones remains to be seen.

But the Ukrainians tend to adapt and find ways to attack Russia's assets at sea even as Moscow develops measures to protect them, said Brady Africk, an open-source-intelligence analyst who is an associate at the American Enterprise Institute think tank.

"These barriers complicate the equation, but it is still a solvable one," said Africk, who has chronicled the development of the defenses over the past few weeks.

Ukraine has repeatedly vowed to destroy the bridge because it is used as a supply and logistics route for the Russian military in Crimea and also because it represents Moscow's illegal annexation and continued occupation of the peninsula. Kyiv's ambitions have been underscored by multiple attacks on the site over the past two years.

But a Ukrainian navy spokesperson said destroying the bridge now wouldn't be as effective as it would have been earlier in the conflict because Russia is relying on it less frequently to help sustain its war efforts in Crimea.

The lengthy bridge accounts for less than a quarter of all transiting cargo, Dmytro Pletenchuk told local media this week. To help sustain its military presence in Crimea, Russia has been using ferry crossings. Ukraine, notably, has shown that it can also target these operations, highlighting Kyiv's ability to adapt.

A Russian warship near the Kerch Bridge on July 17. STRINGER/AFP via Getty Images

"Ukraine is very comfortable with innovating past Russia's defenses and finding new ways to strike targets in occupied territory," Africk said.

Ukraine has made numerous upgrades and improvements to its naval drones since they were used against the bridge last summer.

The modifications made to them include giving the vessels larger warheads, increasing their ranges, and outfitting them with missiles and rockets, reflecting a push from Kyiv to make its drone fleet even more of a problem for Russia.

The naval drones have already been used to wreak havoc on Moscow's Black Sea Fleet, damaging and destroying a number of warships, at least two dozen by the Pentagon's count.

A Sea Baby drone. UNITED24/Ukrainian government

Given the threat, Russia has turned to barges and floating boom defenses to protect other high-profile sites around the Black Sea and Crimea, including at the ports of Sevastopol and Novorossiysk. It has also sunk ships and used smoke generators to help safeguard the Kerch Bridge.

These are relatively cost-effective ways to add an extra layer of protection to a site as valuable as a warship port or a strategic bridge  compared with more kinetic options like constant aircraft patrols of the waterway  but they aren't necessarily the most reliable.

"In terms of constructing defenses and defending key assets, I think Russia has realized that where they can't excel in quality of defenses, they should try and invest in quantity," Africk said. "We see that with these barges that are protecting" the bridge.

Read the original article on Business Insider
There is a tropical system building off the coast of South Carolina that is expected to hit the state within the next week, according to former National Weather Service meteorologist Rocco Calaci.

The chances of the tropical low reaching the Myrtle Beach area is slim, said National Weather Service meteorologist Mark Bacon. There is a 10% chance of a storm hitting Myrtle Beach within the next two days and a 20% chance of it hitting in the next seven days.

The storm was looking to hit the South Carolina and North Carolina border Monday night but now appears more south, headed to the South Carolina and Georgia border. Where the tropical low hits, there will be heavy rain, thunderstorms and winds up to 25 mph, Calaci said.

In the Myrtle Beach area, Bacon said to watch out for rip currents for the next three to five days. There are currently moderate rip currents, but Bacon said that will likely increase to high.
SACRAMENTO, California  California could soon become the first state to hit private universities with financial penalties over legacy admissions.

Legislation that would ban elite institutions including Stanford and the University of Southern California from giving preference to the children of alumni and donors has cleared the state Assembly for the first time. The bills next stop is a Wednesday hearing in the Senate Education Committee, where Chair Josh Newman plans to vote for it.

I'd be surprised if it didn't get the support of a majority of members of the committee, the Los Angeles County Democrat told POLITICO.

Already, three states have banned legacy admissions at public universities, with Marylands ban also extending to private institutions (but not fining them). And the selective University of California stopped considering legacy status years ago.

California is well positioned to take this latest step due its unusual financial leverage. Private universities here benefit from one of the most comprehensive state financial aid programs in the country  and California Assemblymember Phil Ting, a Democrat who authored the bill, has proposed clawing back aid from schools that offer preference to legacy applicants.

But it wont be easy to contend with these institutions powerful graduates and donor networks. Ting has been tracking efforts in New York, a state that also has a large financial aid program for private universities and where lawmakers this year mulled fining those that consider applicants ties to alumni. The legislation didnt make it to Gov. Kathy Hochuls desk by the end of the states legislative session  a sign of the political hurdles California may reckon with.

Still, the nations largest state passing a ban could go a long way toward clearing a path for smaller states to follow, said Connecticut state Sen. Derek Slap, whose bill to ban the practice was ultimately diluted before passing.

That would be a game changer. Big time, said Slap.

Ting introduced similar legislation in 2019 after the Varsity Blues scandal  that didnt make it out of the lower house before it was watered down. But the Supreme Courts recent gutting of affirmative action has seemingly generated more national momentum this time around for efforts to diversify elite colleges.

The fact that universities now cannot look at race as a factor in admissions really underscores the need to make sure that universities shouldn't be taking into account wealth or alumni status, Ting told Playbook.

Efforts to limit legacy admissions have recently gained steam in both major parties and at the highest levels of American politics. Virginia Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin signed a ban on legacy admissions at public universities in March, and President Joe Bidens administration is waging a war on the practice with a civil rights investigation into Harvards application processing.

Going after the privileges of the ultra wealthy offers politicians the chance to frame themselves as champions of the working class and of underrepresented students.

Ending legacy admissions isn't just good policy  it's good politics too, said Dan Helmer, a Democratic lawmaker in Virginia who carried his states proposal.

The California proposal could have sweeping consequences for some institutions. More than 13 percent of students admitted to USC, Santa Clara University and Stanford in 2022 were related to alumni, according to numbers the schools had to report under past legislation from Ting.

USC and Stanford havent taken positions on the bill, spokespeople said. But both universities are members of an independent colleges network that opposes the legislation unless several amendments are made  including one that would cut its enforcement mechanism.

Were uncomfortable with the state dictating admission practices in our institutions, and the potential precedent it sets, said Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities President Kristen Soares.

The proposal will need to overcome not only that resistance, but be signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom  perhaps Santa Claras most powerful alum. A spokesperson for his office declined to comment.

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TOKYO, Jun 19 (News On Japan) - Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare plans to lift restrictions on "home care" for foreign workers with specific skills and technical intern trainees under certain conditions. This change aims to address the ongoing labor shortage in the caregiving sector. What challenges have emerged from the field?

Elma, a 27-year-old Indonesian care worker, provides home care services for a woman with a severe illness, assisting with meals and repositioning her body.

Elma, who loves Japanese culture, came to Japan at 18, inspired by the demand for caregivers and a desire to help. She studied at a specialized school and obtained her qualifications in about three years.

Elma recalls the early struggles with communication and cultural differences, often relying on a dictionary and taking notes.

"In home care, you must handle emergencies by yourself," Elma explains. The one-on-one nature of home care means it has been limited to those with a caregiving qualification, like Elma. Unqualified foreigners have not been permitted to provide these services.

However, due to the severe labor shortage, the Ministrys review committee approved a draft report today to allow foreigners with specific skills and technical intern trainees to perform home care duties. Employers will need to ensure these workers receive training in Japanese lifestyles and initially accompany other staff members.

Elma, a Muslim, prays five times a day, obtaining permission from her clients to do so during her visits.

Miyazato, president of Pukkuru Care where Elma works, distributes handmade leaflets to help clients understand these cultural practices.

"We take these leaflets and explain to clients, asking for their cooperation," Miyazato says, emphasizing the need for employers to facilitate understanding and acceptance.

With Japan's aging population, mutual understanding becomes increasingly important.

Source: TBS
Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and Chinese Premier Li Qiang have affirmed that their countries will continue to communicate at every level. Ishiba has also conveyed deep concerns about the situation in the East China Sea and increased activity by the Chinese military near Japan. (NHK)
TOKYO, Jun 19 (News On Japan) - The Tokyo High Court upheld the life sentence for a former nurse accused of killing three elderly patients by mixing disinfectant into their IV drips at the former Oguchi Hospital in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. The verdict was delivered on June 19, confirming the initial ruling by the Yokohama District Court in 2021.

Kiyumi Kuboki, a former nurse at the now-defunct Oguchi Hospital, was convicted of injecting disinfectant into the IV drips of three patients in 2016, leading to their deaths.

In the first trial in 2021, the Yokohama District Court sentenced Kuboki to life imprisonment. During the appeal, prosecutors argued that the punishment was too lenient and sought the death penalty, while the defense argued against capital punishment.

On June 19, the Tokyo High Court ruled that there were no errors in the initial courts assessment of the circumstances leading to the formation of Kubokis motives or her potential for rehabilitation. The court stated, It is not unreasonable to impose a life sentence that requires her to confront the gravity of her crimes for the rest of her life and to seek rehabilitation. As a result, the court upheld the original life sentence for Kuboki.

Source: NEWS
Each of the Cornell College instructors injured in a stabbing during their teaching trip to Jilin City, China are back with family or moving forward from the incident, the college said in a statement Tuesday.

Cornell College President Jonathan Brand said in the update to campus that all four of the instructors have either been reunited with family members or are continuing with their summer travel plans after being injured in a serious incident in a public park in the city last week.

People and organizations both in the U.S. and China aided in getting the instructors the care they needed, Brand said. He said he has been reminded through this time about how the extended Cornell College community cares for each other.

We appreciate the support from our colleagues at Beihua University, and we have thanked our state and federal legislators as well as the Department of State for their efforts to assist our instructors and their families, Brand said in the statement.

The instructors were teaching at Beihua University as part of a partnership with Cornell College. The June 10 incident occurred while the instructors were visiting a park near the university, accompanied by a colleague from Beihua. A man bumped into one of them, according to Jilin City police. The suspect, who police apprehended and identified as a 55-year-old with the surname Ciu, then allegedly stabbed that individual and the three other instructors.

One of the instructors involved in the incident was David Zabner, state Rep. Adam Zabners brother. A Ph.D. candidate at Tufts University, David Zabner was in Jilin City as part of the partnership between Beihua University and Cornell College when he was wounded in the arm during the incident. The names of the other instructors have not been released.

According to Adam Zabners social media, his brother returned to Iowa late last week. The representative said in a statement that the U.S. State Department and U.S. Consulate in Shenyang were helpful during David Zabners treatment and in efforts to bring him home, as well as the offices of Vice President Kamala Harris, Sen. Chuck Grassley and U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks.

Cornell College has partnered with Beihua University since 2018 to bring instructors from Mount Vernon to Jilin City to teach at the university.
EARLY, Iowa -- A Manilla, Iowa man died Friday in a standoff with law enforcement in Sac County.

At around 3:18 p.m. Friday, the Sac County Sheriff's Office was notified of a vehicle pursuit in Crawford County that was proceeding north toward Ida and Sac County.

The suspect's vehicle was a Lincoln Navigator that had been reported stolen out of Woodbury County earlier that morning, according to a press release from the Sac County Sheriff's Office.

The suspect driving the stolen vehicle was identified as Jason Scott French, of Manilla. French was wanted on a felony warrant out of South Dakota, and reportedly had a handgun on him and had made threats to harm officers.

An Ida County Sheriff's deputy found the suspect vehicle in southeastern Ida County and pursued the vehicle into southwestern Sac County. The pursuit continued northbound, and attempts to stop the Lincoln with stop sticks were unsuccessful. Sac County Deputies and Iowa State Patrol officers continued the pursuit until reaching the area of Jackson Avenue and 290th Street, where the Lincoln drove into a field and stopped in a ditch after hitting a fence.

French stepped out of the Lincoln with a handgun, according to the press release, and attempts were made to communicate with him using loudspeakers.

Crisis negotiators and tactical teams from Storm Lake and Buena Vista County were dispatched to assist, and the Iowa State Patrol and Buena Vista County Sheriff's Office deployed drones to monitor the situation.

No shots were fired by law enforcement, the Sac County Sheriff's Office said in its press release.

Preliminary autopsy results found that French died of a gunshot wound to the head.

Iowa ranks #13 in mental health care deserts Iowa ranks #13 in mental health care deserts In 5 states, more than 35% of the population is underserved
The Georgia government has enacted a law that aims to persecute churches, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and independent media, according to a renowned law professor.

The Foreign Influence Transparency Law, in force since June 3 despite widespread protests, makes churches, NGOs and media enter personal information on a public register if they receive more than a fifth of income from supporters abroad  or face thousands of dollars in fines.

Giorgi Meladze, a law professor at Ilia State University, told rights watchdog Forum 18 that the impact of the law on smaller religious communities stood out as a particular concern.

It is our belief that the law was specifically designed as an instrument to target others, and religious minorities should consider it a threat to their fundamental rights and liberties, Meladze said.

Forum 18 sought answers from Zaza Vashakmadze, head of the State Agency for Religious Issues, about which religious organizations would be affected by the law, and why the state demanded such detailed information about funding. He did not respond.

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Any listed churches, NGOs or media organizations failing to comply face heavy fines of 25,000 lari ($8,945 USD) and have details noted on the register regardless, according to RFE/RLs Georgian Service. A financial declaration is then needed by the organization or another fine of 10,000 lari ($3,500 USD) is imposed.

The state authority would then check a month later, and further disobedience to comply with the law results in yet another fine of 20,000 lari ($7,150 USD). Fines for the same amount would be levied each month the organization does not give the details required.

Meladze said consistent suppression by the government had caused religious groups to be less visible. He called the crackdown a historical low.

With very little visibility in public debate, religious minorities risk losing their rights without this being noticed, he told Forum 18.

The Georgia governments haste in adopting the new law has also dented any democratic response by groups concerned, according to Meladze.

The speed at which the government rushed to adopt the law never gave enough space for wider public discussion and consultation with stakeholders, including religious minority groups, he told Forum 18. One can even argue that religious minorities were kept on the margins throughout the process.

Despite public protests, on May 28 the Georgian Parliament vetoed President Salome Zurabishvilis refusal to sign the bill, and the chairman of parliament, Shalva Papuashvili signed it into law.

The Georgian Dream Party, dominating the countrys parliament since 2012 and led by businessman Bidzina Ivanishvili, pushed the law through after considering a similar regulation in March 2023. Forum 18 stated that Ivanishvili had promised not to adopt a similar law in the future.

The promise was broken, and not for the first time, Meladze commented.

The legal regulation also demands personal information about staff of organizations, including religious views.

Many aspects of the law remained vague and dangerously open to interpretation by authorities, Forum 18 said in a press statement. The Rev. Zaal Tkeshelashvili of the Evangelical Church of Georgia, said he feared the state installing surveillance cameras in every corner to control the religious or private lives of believers.

Meladze said the legal culture in Georgia needed to be understood to perceive the underlying threat now facing evangelicals and others under the new law. He listed characteristics such as a formalistic application of law, wide discretion of the executive, spontaneous and anonymous authorship of the precedent and the discriminatory attitude of policy-making institutions.

The ambiguity of the law hence created a toxic mix for human rights protection, according to Meladze.

Papuashvili defended the law in responding to concerns of Michael OFlaherty, commissioner for human rights at the Council of Europe. He called the new law essential, not optional, for increasing transparency.

On April 16, Papuashvili wrote to OFlaherty, Overall, the draft law is compatible with the European human rights standards. He said a previous, similar draft law had been ditched on the understanding that Georgian and foreign organizations would open up their funding and provide requested information.

We tried to partner with major donor organizations on [a] voluntary basis, but, despite our attempts, the situation worsened, Papuashvili wrote. The unfortunate reality in Georgia is that certain non-profit organizations continue to evade transparency requirements and covertly influence political, economic and security processes.

Archil Metreveli, law professor and head of the Institute for Religious Freedom at the University of Georgia, differed with Papuashvili on the effect upon human rights in the country.

The initiation and adoption process of this law suggests that the governments real purpose is not to ensure public transparency of the finances of private organizations, including religious organizations, but to exert control, Metreveli told Forum 18.

The adoption of the law will have an expressly negative impact on human rights in Georgia, including the freedom of religion or belief, he said.

This effect will be both direct and indirect, and it will be devastating, Metreveli told Forum 18.

There are similarities between the new law, known as the Foreign Agents Law, with a similar law adopted by Russia in 2012, Forum 18 noted.

Volker Turk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has requested that the Georgian government withdraw the law, underlining that it poses serious threats to the rights to freedom of expression and association.

The European Commission for Democracy through Law, commonly known as the Venice Commission and an advisory body to the Council of Europe, has also criticized the new law.

This law, which is human-rights sensitive but is also highly controversial in Georgian society, as is demonstrated by the massive reactions in the country, was adopted in a procedure which left no space for genuine discussion and meaningful consultation, in open disregard for the concerns of large parts of the Georgian people, said the commission, according to Forum 18.

The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europes Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), in an Urgent Opinion on May 30, stated the law did not pursue a legitimate objective as reflected in international human rights instruments, nor attests to a particular necessity, and unduly impacts the right to association and right to privacy, among others.




The United Nations and the United States have warned of the risk of famine in Sudan, as both pressed the warring sides to end obstruction of aid for around 18 million people in the war-torn country who are already acutely hungry.

The latest UN reports indicate an escalating humanitarian crisis and the risk of famine in the north-east African country where around 9.2 million people have been displaced since mid-2023. The US on Friday (14 June) announced another $315 million for at least 18 million hungry Sudanese, including 3.6 million children who are acutely malnourished, warning that Sudan is facing a famine that could become worse than any the world has seen since Ethiopia 40 years ago. This comes as observers say that while aid deliveries continue to be blocked by the warring generals, arms supplies to both sides continue to flow in.

Repeated US-led efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict have failed because the warring generals each think they can win on the ground. Yasir al-Atta, a senior officer of the Sudanese Army, has now stated that peace will only be achieved through the defeat of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). True peace will be achieved through the defeat and surrender of the Janjaweed, the return of foreign Arabs to their countries of origin, and the prosecution of all those who have committed crimes, al-Atta emphasized. This comes after Sudanese Army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan recently rejected the request from the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, urging him to return to the negotiations in Jeddah.
OCP Africa, a subsidiary of Moroccos OCP Group, recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the State of Gombe to support the agricultural sector in this northeastern region of Nigeria.

OCP Africa will provide its support to the State of Gombe, Nigeria, for the development of its agricultural sector, the subsidiary of the OCP Group, whose mission is to contribute to the sustainable development of African agriculture, announced on its social media pages X and LinkedIn.

This memorandum of understanding, concluded during a recent visit to Morocco by the Governor of the State of Gombe, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, outlines key initiatives such as the development of agricultural centers, mobile soil analysis solutions, the Agribooster project, and technical support for the creation of a state-owned fertilizer blending plant.

These initiatives are strategically designed to address productivity and sustainability challenges throughout the agricultural value chain, supporting Gombes farmers, and promoting economic growth in the region, OCP Africa said.

This partnership comes at a crucial time for Gombe, where more than 80% of the population is engaged in agriculture, it emphasized.
The bloody civil war and looming famine in Sudan are pushing thousands of civilians to flee to neighboring Chad and Central African Republic (CAR), whereby the spillover of the conflict is complicating a security landscape in both latter countries, UN officials and experts warn.

Activities of armed groups in the volatile CAR have increased as the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) try to recruit their fighters and amid air raids by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) around border areas, a panel of experts warns in a new report. The fighting between the two rival camps in Sudan has since April 2023 spread to other regions including Darfur, which borders the CAR. The expert panel said the United Nations had registered almost 10,700 Sudanese refugees who, by late March, had fled across the border into the CAR where rebel groups have operated with impunity across the country over the past decade, thwarting mining exploration by foreign companies.

Meanwhile, the power struggle between SAF and RSF has plunged Sudan into a devastating crisis, which has prompted more than 600,000 people to flee to neighboring Chad, seeking safety and enough food to sustain life, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). A famine-like conditions are taking hold across the country where almost one million Sudanese are facing catastrophic levels of hunger with an additional 25.6 million facing acute food shortages, according to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, the UN hunger-level scale. Many of the Sudanese refugees in Chad are barely surviving and are dependent on food aid from the World Food Programme (WFP) that has, however, been forced to reduce food assistance due to a lack of funding, the UNHCR has warned.
Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photo: Getty Images

Donald Trumps 2016 campaign and his four years in office contained so much daily weirdness, wackiness, and horror that the human brain couldnt comprehend it all. As Trump gets close to the White House again, That Happened brings you the surreal moments you might have forgotten  or blocked from your memory.

Donald Trump is a city guy at heart. Hes at home amid towering skyscrapers, Bonfire of the Vanitiesstyle characters, and murders he can pin on the wrong people. But rest assured, the ex-presidents expertise extends well beyond urban quandaries like how to stiff casino contractors. Hes also a self-proclaimed expert on preventing forest fires.

California learned this the hard way. During Trumps presidency, the state experienced the largest blazes in its history and some of the deadliest, including 2018s hugely destructive Camp Fire, which killed 85 people. But California was poorly positioned for presidential sympathy, having committed the sin of voting for Hillary Clinton by 30 points in 2016. So rather than empathize with the state and its residents like a normal president, Trump blamed the victim. Specifically, he landed on a typically peculiar line of argument: that California wasnt raking its forest floors thoroughly enough.

Where Trump came up with this idea isnt clear, but he became fixated on it over the years, repeatedly invoking it as the source of Californias fire problems  and as justification for threatening to withhold aid that he then grudgingly approved.

I see again the forest fires are starting, he said at a 2020 rally. Theyre starting again in California. I said, You gotta clean your floors, you gotta clean your forests  there are many, many years of leaves and broken trees, and theyre like, like, so flammable you touch them and it goes up.

By then, this routine routine was predictable, as Politico noted:

The combination of assigning blame while fires still burn and offering questionable remedies have become as familiar to Californians as the conflagrations that ignite each year. Those fires have spurred a predictable response from the president: blame the Democrat-dominated state and then threaten to punish it by withholding money. He did so as fires burned in 2018, and again in 2019.

Trumps raking claims were, unsurprisingly, shaky on the evidence. While it is true that theres some debate about how best to manage potentially combustible forests, Trump, as is his wont, ignored a few key facts. Among them: Much of the land that burned in California was either federally or privately owned, meaning the state couldnt have just stepped in. And much of it wasnt forest at all, but grasslands and oak-studded hillsides, as the San Francisco Chronicle put it. The states power companies played a key role in at least some recent catastrophic fires. Perhaps most important, Trump refused to acknowledge the role of climate change, which is almost certainly supercharging wildfires across the country. Itll start getting cooler, he once told Californias secretary for natural resources. You just watch.

The one piece of hard evidence Trump marshaled for his raking advice? The fact that Finland did things this way. Supposedly. As Trump put it eloquently in 2018 during a fire-related visit to California:

I was with the president of Finland and he said: We have, much different, we are a forest nation. He called it a forest nation. And they spend a lot of time on raking and cleaning and doing things, and they dont have any problem.

There were just a couple of problems with Trumps assertion: Thats not how Finns manage forest fires, and thats also (probably) not how Trumps conversation with the countrys president went down.

As Finnish social-media users were more than happy to point out (between memes mocking Trump), their country has the benefit of being rainy, empty, and cold:

I grew up in Finland. a) it rains all year round. b) we have a lengthy and cold winter. c) Finland is a sparsely populated country with just over 5mil ppl, with land size ~3/4 of CA and most of it forests and lakes. d) no friggin body is raking the forests.  Malla Hadley (@mallahadley) November 17, 2018

Finlands then-president, Sauli Niinisto, was a bit more diplomatic in the style of someone who knows the American president is a blockhead but cant say it out loud. As the Guardian reported, Niinisto appears to recall the conversation somewhat differently:

In an interview reported by Finnish newspaper Ilta-Sanomat, Niinisto said he met Trump briefly in Paris earlier in November, and on the topic of the California wildfires told him: Finland is a country covered by forests, and that to avoid forest fires we have a good surveillance system and network.

Beyond the factual inaccuracies, its odd that Trump would look admiringly at a country that would almost certainly reject him at the polls if it could, or even more emphatically than California did. But it does have one thing going for it that Trump loves.
Transitioning hydrogen from its current deployment  produced from hydrocarbons for local industrial use  into a global green commodity is a huge task. The few projects now reaching FID usually involve unique two-party agreements or guaranteed offtake within development consortiums.

The lack of globally accepted standards, and the price risk of long-term contracts, remain major hurdles holding many projects back.

That the nascent industry appears stalled, with few green hydrogen projects reaching finance and construction, is largely due to these hurdles. Issues such as technology, infrastructure, shipping and safety are widely thought to be not as critical  they will be resolved if and when the industry gains momentum.

Instead, the current discussion about hydrogen is more and more about price risk embedded in the long-term offtake contracts that financiers require, and the related concern with standards and procedures to ensure green origin. The leading edge of thinking has come to focus on how to get new hydrogen markets going by lowering risk and creating clear regulatory regimes.

The concerns are being combined in efforts to create new financial markets for exchange of green hydrogen and hydrogen-derived products.

Initiatives in Europe and the Middle East anticipate the development of new commodity markets much like the markets for natural gas, electricity and other widely traded forms of energy.

Such markets will allow trading of standard contracts with related certificates or guarantees of origin to ensure low-carbon sourcing. They will work off benchmark prices and price discovery based on supply and demand fundamentals, with forward positions and hedging that mitigates risk.

Green commodities

Trading sustainable energy products to reduce carbon will cover a wide range, from sustainable fuels to green hydrogen, green electricity, green products of any sort, says Jan Haizmann, CEO, Zero Emissions Traders Alliance (ZETA).

The market for these fuels at this point in time is embryonic, but we are working on market ideas and the mechanics that we have discovered to build these new markets.

Haizmann, an energy markets specialist, has held various executive functions with the European Federation of Energy Traders (EFET) and the European Energy Exchange (EEX). He recently relocated to Dubai to launch ZETA in the Middle East.

Related: Indias New Coal Power Capacity Is Set to Soar in 2024

Im confident this region will become a major center for production and export of the new green fuels, he says. But only markets can accelerate reaching the net zero goals.

I see all the pieces coming into place to begin building regional markets for these new sources of energy.

He and others look to the high-liquidity markets for major energy commodities, as well as the now well-established instruments of sustainable commodities trade, including carbon credits and renewable energy certificates in the power sector.

These are traded on major exchanges such as Intercontinental Exchange operating in Amsterdam, which handles trade of the benchmark TTF natural gas futures and options, as well as the EU carbon allowances used in the EUs ETS. In the renewable power sector, Guarantees of Origin and Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) are traded over-the-counter and on exchanges in North America and Europe. [if !supportLineBreakNewLine] [endif]

Emerging Hy exchanges

These established markets serve as examples for European advocates of new markets to trade sustainable commodities. Market experts are now developing the top level financial architecture and tools for future commodity trading, even as work on the port and pipeline infrastructure continues.

Last month, the first green hydrogen certificate was symbolically handed out during an onshore test event at Port of Rotterdam, awarded to PosHYdon, a Dutch initiative in collaboration with industry partners that plans to produce green hydrogen via electrolysis on a production platform in the North Sea.

The certificate, representing 1MWh hydrogen energy, was delivered by the Dutch certifying agency VertiCer and by HyXchange, a Utrecht-based initiative that is developing a platform for hydrogen trade on the main Dutch pipeline infrastructure. It is supported by the natural gas transport company Gasunie, major ports and companies.

"HyXchange is an initiative to create new exchange products for hydrogen," says Bert den Ouden, Project Director. We want to kick-start hydrogen markets.

Under current Dutch rules, hydrogen and the certificates that guarantee it is derived from low carbon sources can be traded separately, an arrangement that market advocates favor. However, European rules coming into force will require the physical commodity and the green certificate to be bundled.

The EUs Renewable Energy Directive III (RED III) will provide the main guiding regulations, replacing to a large extent the national schemes.

Europe wants to make sure the green hydrogen coming from an electrolyser is truly green, says den Ouden. But they might create rules which by market parties are seen as complicated.

For instance, RED III rules require correlation, that electricity flows into an electrolyser at same moment it comes from a wind farm. These rules don't exist currently but will exist in the European framework.

We would welcome simplification, he says.

A similar effort in neighboring Belgium in HyBex, a project to study the future market for hydrogen in the Belgian pipeline network. Partners include energy infrastructure group Fluxys, strategic consultancy Hinicio, and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges authority.

HyBex is pilot-testing a hydrogen commodity trading hub on this infrastructure, studying the required certification requirements for a national hydrogen network.

HyBex will prepare the ground for an exchange platform that aims to offer all relevant hydrogen commodity, certificate and balancing products on a market exchange, says Anton Geers, who is Sustainable Transition Expert at Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

The product offering is expected to progressively grow in a maturing hydrogen market.

Trade of the physical commodity and associated contracts and certificates will extend beyond Belgium, as its ports and pipelines connect European buyers to exporters worldwide. These include, for example, Namibian producers exporting into Northwestern Europe through the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

The European markets will accommodate Guarantee of Origin certificates for voluntary schemes (GOs), as well as for compliance markets that must meet requirements for Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO) according to the RED III directives.

An important certification scheme is the CertifHy hydrogen certification, created at the request of the European Commission, which aims at facilitating the creation of an EU-wide structure of GOs.

Project developers worldwide are watching the emerging European markets and standards for green hydrogen carefully, as their production processes must allow certification according to these standards if they intend to export to Europe. In many cases, their projects will not gain financing without such regulatory certainty. [if !supportLineBreakNewLine] [endif]

A clean commodity trading hub

Another significant platform for sustainable commodities trading is now taking root in the Middle East, which promises to be a major producer of green hydrogen, ammonia, e-fuels and other new forms of low-carbon and carbon-free energy.

The Zero Emissions Traders Alliance (ZETA) wants to foster the development of a clean energy market in the region.

Well begin with secondary trading of the voluntary carbon offset certificates, then create and develop certificates of guarantee of origin for hydrogen and ammonia, says Taimoor Zaman, who is an executive advisor to the group.

Zaman is Head of Energy Affairs at ENOWA, the clean energy subsidiary of the Saudi megaproject NEOM. Prior to joining NEOM he was based in the UK, where he traded compliance-driven carbon emission certificates under the EU and UK emission trading schemes, as well as voluntary GO certificates in the power sector.

Saudi Arabias Regional Voluntary Carbon Market Company (RVCMC), founded in 2022, has hosted two large carbon offset auctions, opening the possibility of further clean energy commodities trading in the Kingdom.

From a thought leadership and ZETA perspective, these primary auctions are an excellent start, says Zaman. We can now look at the next step, which is to promote liquidity around secondary trading of these carbon offset certificates.

ZETA also intends to collaborate with stakeholders in Saudi Arabia and internationally to develop certificates that guarantee the origin of carbon-free fuels. Such certificates would go beyond a simple tracking and booking tool to ensure fungibility and tradability in key markets of the EU and Asia.

The group will also develop pricing benchmarks, similar to the LNG spot price benchmark, to create reliable reference points for clean commodities including hydrogen, ammonia, and e-fuels.

Were working on very tangible deliverables now, promoting liquidity in secondary carbon offsets, facilitating the development of GO certificates, a pricing index and so forth, says Zaman.

Then a whole new ecosystem of derivatives and optimization will naturally emerge.

The work of these market advocates is in the early stages but could advance quickly to help accelerate the rise of a global commodity market for green hydrogen. Then energy traders may well see Saudi Green Ammonia becoming a global benchmark, up on the board with the likes of Brent, Dutch TTF and other famous ones.

By Alan Mammoser for Oilprice.com

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Everything is set up for Ukraine and Moldova to officially open EU accession talks on June 25 in Luxembourg, with the bloc keen to hold what are known in EU parlance as Intergovernmental Conferences (IGC) to mark the occasion.

The European Commission, the executive branch of the EU, presented an oral update on both countries to representatives from the 27 EU member states on June 7 in Brussels. According to the update, later distributed in written form to EU capitals and obtained by RFE/RL, the two countries had completed all the reforms that were required of them, which largely dealt with rule-of-law issues.

In the case of Moldova, all of the 27 EU member states agreed with the assessment that the country had completed its reforms. For Ukraine, 26 countries agreed, with one exception: Hungary.

Budapest has continued to argue that Ukraine still hasn't done enough to safeguard the rights of its ethnic Hungarian minority in the country. Ensuring the rights of national minorities was one of the four conditions Ukraine had to fulfill.

For a moment, it looked like no IGC would take place at the end of the month for either country. (Their paths are coupled in this process.) What needs to happen for the two IGCs to go ahead in June is for EU members to unanimously agree on Ukraine's and Moldova's respective negotiation frameworks, which will essentially plot the path of the enlargement road ahead. EU ambassadors were hoping to adopt these frameworks on June 12, but Hungary insisted it wasn't ready to sign off. There was, however, a late reprieve on June 14 with a compromise that Budapest, the rest of the EU, and Ukraine could all live with.

Deep Background: To understand the process, it makes sense to start with what was said in the oral update on Ukraine's progress regarding national minorities.

Firstly, the written version of the document outlines what Kyiv did in early 2024 to comply with the European Commission's requirements, including adopting a methodology for the use of national minority languages, producing a road map on education for minorities, and the creation of a Council of Public Associations of National Minorities.

The update also notes that Kyiv recently set up a financial compensation mechanism for translations of election material between minority languages and Ukrainian. The document notes that Ukraine has "enacted several laws and taken implementing measures in order to address the remaining [European Commission's] Venice Commission recommendations from June 2023 and October 2023 linked to the law on national minorities and to the laws on state language, media, and education."

It then concluded that "while noting that the Venice Commission has not pronounced itself on the follow-up given to its recommendation, the commission considers that Ukraine has taken all the necessary measures. This step is thus completed."

Drilling Down

According to many accounts of the meeting on June 7, representatives from all countries present gave their clear support for the commission's assessment on Ukraine and asked that the framework be quickly adopted so that the IGC can go ahead on June 25. Hungary, however, remained a stickler, mentioning 11 issues that Budapest said Ukraine hasn't addressed.

Broadly speaking, those issues can be boiled down to three main areas: restoring the status of the national minority school system; restoring the right to speak minority languages when dealing with state authorities; and restoring the right to political representation on a regional as well as national level.

What Hungary essentially wants is to go back to what Ukrainian legislation looked like before 2015, when Kyiv started amending laws on national minorities and state languages. Those amendments, which were driven by a desire to reduce the amount of Russian spoken, led to the increased usage of Ukrainian in public institutions, such as schools.

In this respect, Budapest wanted to add two amendments to the negotiation framework and in the opening statement of the potential IGC. First, Budapest wanted it noted in both documents that Ukraine needs to produce an action plan dedicated to the protection of the rights of national minorities. And second, Budapest asked for written references in the negotiation framework to two documents from 1991: the Treaty On The Foundations Of Good Neighborly Relations And Cooperation, signed by Ukraine and Hungary in 1991; and the declaration on the principles of cooperation between Hungary and Ukraine in guaranteeing the rights of national minorities.

In the compromise text, agreed on June 14, the action plan required by Hungary is included along with a statement that "the right of persons belonging to national minorities should be protected, in line with the constitution of Ukraine. Furthermore, Ukraine is expected to implement relevant bilateral agreements with EU member states."

Also noted in the compromise document was that the European Commission will monitor Kyiv's implementation of minority rights reforms and report regularly to EU member states.

This might not seem like too much to ask for, but other member states are unhappy that bilateral issues are being dragged into the enlargement negotiations at such an early stage. They fear -- with some foundation -- that Budapest can veto every step of the way by suggesting that Kyiv isn't protecting national minorities enough.

Bilateral issues between a member state and a candidate country often slow down the EU accession process. Just look at Bulgaria's refusal to sign off on North Macedonia opening accession talks due to Skopje not amending its constitution to reflect Bulgarians as a founding people.

On the other hand, many diplomats I spoke to are at least happy that the concrete references to specific bilateral treaties between Hungary and Ukraine are gone from the document. They also noted that a compromise on this issue always looked possible, especially as Hungary is taking over the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, one of the main decision-making bodies of the bloc, on July 1 and is expected to not keep Ukraine high on the agenda for the next six months. So, there was pressure to finalize everything by the end of June.

and is expected to not keep Ukraine high on the agenda for the next six months. So, there was pressure to finalize everything by the end of June. There is now just one small hurdle that needs to be cleared before the IGC can go ahead: a debate and vote on the frameworks in the Dutch parliament on June 20. (The Netherlands is the only country taking this step.) This should be a formality with a pro-Ukraine majority in parliament, but since the Dutch general elections in November 2023, lawmakers have become more enlargement skeptic.

By RFE/RL

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This month, Senegal announced it had struck oil at its first offshore project. This is just the latest of several new energy projects that the West African country is developing, with an energy mix that includes both fossil fuels and renewables. Following the recent expansion of its energy industry, Senegal is now catching the eyes of several international energy investors, particularly in China.

In Senegal, around 65 percent of the population has access to electricity, showing there is a long way to go to establishing energy security. Over the last few years, the government has introduced several policies aimed at increasing the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to reduce the countrys reliance on solid biomass for cooking, which has helped decrease pollution in urban regions of the country.

In 2021, oil contributed 48.9 percent of Senegals energy mix, followed by biofuels and waste at 39.1 percent, coal at 10.4 percent, and renewable energy at just 1.6 percent. Energy consumption rose by around 224 percent from 2000 to 2021, as Senegal undergoes industrialisation and access to electricity increases. Renewable energy sources contributed a 16 percent share of power generation in 2021.

Last year, the government launched a development plan entitled Plan Senegal Emergent (PSE) 2035, which aims to encourage higher levels of foreign direct investment (FDI) and private sector participation across various industries, to support economic growth. Senegal recently joined a Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), partnering with France, Germany, the European Union, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The JETP will provide up to $2.69 billion over a three to five-year period to help Senegal develop its clean energy sector.

The JETP program is expected to increase the renewable energy electricity mix to 40 percent by the end of the decade. The government of Senegal will work with the International Partners Group to develop an investment plan, which it expects to publish this year. The former President of Senegal, Macky Sall, stated, The multifaceted crises we are experiencing today are straining African economies, particularly in their significant efforts devoted to economic development, access to energy, and industrialization. Diversifying our energy sources and our supply chains will increase our resilience. The partnership for a just energy transition (JETP) that we are establishing today with our partners will make it possible to support the Senegalese dynamic that we started several years ago of incorporating renewable energies into our energy mix and securing our energy system thanks to all our natural resources in line with the Paris Agreement.

This month, Australian firm Woodside Energy announced the start of production at Senegals first offshore oilfield. This follows several years of delay. Woodside hopes to eventually produce 100,000 bpd of crude at the site, as well as exploit its natural gas reserves. The discovery of offshore oil and gas reserves was made in 2014. The state-owned energy company Petrosen which has an 18 percent stake in the oilfield, believes the sector could bring in over $1 billion a year over the 30 years.

The Sangomar oilfield is located around 100km offshore. Phase One of development includes the drilling of 23 wells, 21 of which have already been drilled. Senegals recently-elected President Bassirou Diomaye Faye said that the profits from the countrys oil production would be well managed. Faye informed Senaglese students, The State of Senegal has set up an inter-generational fund. For your generation and those to come, we have reserved shares (in the resources derived from oil exploitation).

In addition to crude, Senegal also expects to produce its first LNG later this year, from its Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project, located on the border with Mauritania. British energy giant BP and the U.S. firm Kosmos Energy will operate the field alongside Petrosen, aiming to produce 2.5 million tonnes of LNG a year.

Senegal is attracting greater interest in its growing energy industry, with Chinese companies investing $1 billion in Senegal since 2013, making China the second-largest economic partner in the West African country after France. As part of Chinas Belt and Road initiative, Chinese companies are expected to invest heavily in supporting infrastructure for energy projects, such as the roads and ports needed for oil production and export, as well as the expansion of the domestic railway network. This is expected to help develop new economic hubs across the country. The IMF forecasts that Senegals GDP could grow by as much as 7.1 percent this year and 10 percent in 2025, driven largely by an increase in foreign investment.

Senegal is developing its energy industry at a rapid pace, having attracted significant investment in its oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors. This is expected to support economic growth and provide Senegal with a diverse energy mix over the coming decade, to boost energy security.

By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com

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As Russia grows increasingly dependent on China, Chinese intentions in the region may be about more than simply friendship.

The Russian side remains largely undeveloped, while the Chinese half of the island has been described as looking like Disneyland.

Heixiazi Island, once a source of armed confrontation, has now been declared a "place of friendship" by China and Russia.

Not too long ago, tension over possession of islands in the rivers that form the Russian-Chinese frontier led to armed confrontation. These days the same islands are declared a place of friendship. But those feelings of amity may not run deep.

Heixiazi, the Chinese half of a divided island at the confluence of the Ussuri and Amur rivers, looks like Disneyland, according to Akihiro Iwashita, a Japanese scholar who is an expert on Russias border issues with China and Japan.

He first visited the island, known on the Russian side as Bolshoy Ussuriysky, in 2008. At that time, the Chinese had made major improvements to its side, building a large nature reserve, border defenses, including a watchtower, and a bridge from the mainland to the island, Iwashita told Eurasianet in an email interview.

When he revisited in 2017, the Chinese wetland park was attracting more than 600,000 tourists a year. Other attractions, including a wild bear reserve, were quickly added to the complex.

Meanwhile, the Russian side remained largely undeveloped, Iwashita said. The only major improvement he noticed was the Amurskaya Creek Bridge, a car crossing that connects the island to the Russian mainland and, strategically, to the city of Khabarovsk.

Two decades have passed since the formerly contested island was divided between China and Russia on a 50-50 basis. One island two countries became the motto.

In May of this year, the island hit the headlines during Russian President Vladimir Putins visit to Beijing. There, the Russian leader agreed to a roadmap for the islands joint development. In June, officials announced plans to build a transit checkpoint with China. By 2030, up to 1.5 million passengers and more than 1.3 million tons of cargo could pass through the crossing annually, Russian officials suggest.

The Russian Far East Development Ministry was euphoric: The island is becoming a place of Russian-Chinese friendship.

But is everything as rosy as it seems?

In August 2023, Chinas Ministry of Natural Resources released a new edition of its standard map. According to defenseanalysts, it showed Bolshoy Ussuriysky, the Russian part of the island, as Chinese territory. Moscows response came three days later. The Russian and Chinese sides adhere to the common position that the border issue between our countries has been finally resolved, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement.

Referring to the once-contested island, she added: The delimitation and demarcation of our common border has been completed along its entire length.

The joint development formula, signed in May in the presence of Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, is a signal from Moscow to Beijing, Elizabeth Wishnick of the Center for Naval Analyses told Eurasianet. I think it was more of a declaratory statement emphasizing Russian sovereignty over half of the island, she said. In her assessment, by giving the green light to the roadmap, Moscow is keen to assert its joint nature rather than to push the development aspect.

Heixiazi/Bolshoy Ussuriysky Island has been a source of Chinese-Russian tension dating back to the 1858 Treaty of Aigun, under which Russia vastly expanded its Far Eastern territories at Chinas expense. From the Chinese perspective, the Aigun pact is counted among the humiliating unequal treaties that the imperial government at the time was compelled to sign, granting technologically superior Western powers, including Britain, the United States, France, and Russia, broad economic and territorial concessions.

At the time the Aigun Treaty was signed, China had little ability to push back against Russian demands. The imperial government at the time it was confronting Russia was also struggling to contain the Taiping Rebellion, as well as fighting the Second Opium War against British and French forces.

Though the Aigun Treaty set the Amur River as the border, the frontier along the UssuriRiver was not well defined. China, accordingly, never accepted Russian control of the islands in the river.

The territorial issue was largely dormant until 1929 when the Soviet Union established a presence on Bolshoy Ussuriysky.

In 1969, two decades after Chinese communists had come to power in Beijing, bilateral tensions boiled over, prompting armed clashes over another island in the Ussuri River. The burst of fighting brought the two countries to the brink of nuclear war.

A turning point in bilateral relations occurred in 1989, when former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev visited Beijing just weeks before the Tiananmen massacre, succeeding in normalizing ties.

In 1991, China and Russia signed an agreement covering the 4,300 km-long (2,672 miles) border, followed by a supplementary document in 2004. It confirmed all river and lake boundaries and demarcated land borders, paving the way for the new phase of border cooperation in 2008.

Those pacts do not necessarily mean the frontier is settled in the minds of Chinese leaders.

In 2001, Russia and China signed a strategic Agreement on Long-Term Good-Neighborly Relations, Friendship and Cooperation. According to Article 6 of that agreement, which had a term of 20 years, Moscow and Beijing affirmed that they had no territorial claims against each other, going on to describe their existing border as inviolable. Nevertheless, in 2004, Putin acceded to Chinese efforts to gain territory, including the 50-50 partition of Bolshoy Ussuriysky.

Despite the current status quo, Beijing often draws Greater China as its territory, Iwashita said, referring to the continuum that Chinese authorities see as part of their influence based on cultural, historical, or economic bonds. The 2023 standard map goes some way towards following this logic. It has caused an uproar in Japan and in other states in the South China Sea. Public reaction in Moscow, however, has been more muted.

The case of Bolshoy Ussuriysky is more complex than it seems. The island is, in some ways, a strategic beachhead because it gives greater access to Khabarovsk, Wishnick said. That city is the headquarters of the Eastern Military District, and an aviation regiment of the Russian Aerospace Forces is based there.

I think [the roadmap agreement] is both an indication of greater trust in the relationship and greater distrust because they [the Russians] feel they have to reinforce the message that its a jointly administered island and [at the same time] say they want to cooperate with China in an area they consider strategic, she added.

Russian sensitivities are likely heightened by the countrys growing trade dependency on China to maintain the Kremlins war effort in Ukraine.

Both Wishnick and Iwashita see no risk of heightened border tensions, at least not under current conditions. According to the Institute for the Study of War, elements of the Army Corps of the Eastern Military District are reported to be operating near Vuhledar in eastern Ukraine. So, there must be at least some peace of mind about the state of border relations in Russias Far East, Wishnick said, referring to the redeployment.

Since March 2023, China has stopped describing its partnership with Russia as having no limits, reverting instead to the three noes policy of the Deng Xiaoping era, Wishnick added. The bottom line is that there are no alliances, no confrontation, and no targeting of third parties.

At the same time, Moscow and Beijing are stepping up their military cooperation. In May, US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines warned that for the first time, China and Russia were exercising together in relation to Taiwan.

The extent to which this trust/distrust dichotomy will play out in practice over Heixiazi/Bolshoy Ussuriysky Island remains to be seen. The Russian side has already promised to present a detailed roadmap implementation plan at the Eastern Economic Forum in September.

By Ekaterina Venkina via Eurasianet.org

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A national poll reveals a quarter of Irish people surveyed are concerned about freedom of speech as the country considers hate speech legislation. But a leading evangelical says there is no issue for Christians as long as they live in accordance to biblical values.

The survey of 1,027 adults in March by Whitestone Insight is published as the Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill 2022 progresses through political hoops at the Dail Eireann (parliament).

In its press release featuring the survey results, rights group Alliance Defending Freedom International (ADF International) said the hate speech bill makes possessing or distributing material that could lead to hatred an offense punishable with a jail term of up to five years in prison.

The proposed law also makes refusing to give a password to an electronic device a crime  allowing police to search and find hateful materials.

However, Nick Park, Executive Director of the Evangelical Alliance Ireland, did not see a risk of hate crime for evangelical Christians if they live by the ethical tenets of their faith.

Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up

The Evangelical Alliance Ireland believes in the importance of free speech, and in the importance of Christians using that freedom in a responsible way to be good representatives of Jesus Christ, Park told Christian Daily International. There is an urgent need for Christians to learn how to speak uncompromised biblical truth in ways that are both truthful and gracious.

The proposed hate speech legislation for Ireland contains a number of provisions and exceptions so that reasonable theological or academic discussion should not be criminalized.

My own opinion is that, given the wording of the legislation, it is difficult to see how Christians would fall foul of the law if they behave and speak as Christians should.

ADF International published results from the poll in time for the 2024 Free Speech Summit in Dublin yesterday (June 18). 90 percent of respondents in the survey agreed that free speech was very important to them.

The proposed hate speech legislation would be one of the worst examples of censorship in the modern West, said Lorcan Price, Irish Barrister and Legal Counsel for ADF International, and speaker about the implications of the bill at the Ireland Free Speech Summit. The bill purports to stamp out hate speech, but fails to define what hate is  allowing authorities to censor any speech the state opposes.

Thats why voices from around the world are arriving in Dublin this week to speak up for the right to debate and discuss ideas  here, and everywhere.

The summit, organized by Free Speech Ireland and supported by ADF International, aimed to bring together free speech activists to discuss the issue of hate speech in Ireland and other countries.

Screenwriter Graham Linehan, creator of the Father Ted TV comedy series, expressed a deep concern that free speech was under threat in Ireland.

The Summit is the very epitome of why we need free speech. Were all coming together with different viewpoints, beliefs, and perspectives  but we agree on one thing. We should be allowed to freely discuss and debate ideas in Ireland. Our free speech must not be curtailed by a censorial government. Its essential that the parliament consider the draconian impact that the hate speech bill could have on Irish society  and keep the public square open for all, said Linehan.

In a Dail Eireann debate on April 23, Helen McEntee TD, Minister for Justice, sought to soothe any fears about the impending legislation, saying the intention would be to protect those who are most vulnerable and who are attacked simply because of who they are, where they came from or because of some other part of their identity that is, quite frankly, nobody else's business.

I am determined to enact strong, effective and proportionate legislation to do this, added McEntee. Some people have raised concerns about certain provisions in the Bill and I have indicated that I am willing to look at addressing, as appropriate, those concerns. To this end, I am considering a number of amendments which I intend to bring forward on Committee Stage in the Seanad [Irelands Senate] in due course.

McEntee added that the proposed law would bring us into line with our European counterparts. We are one of the last countries in the European Union without hate crime legislation.

The hate crime bill is currently in the third stage of the legislation process. It is being examined section by section and amendments may be made to its contents.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) recently released its Oil 2024 report, which examines the global dynamics for oil supply security, refining, trade, and investment. The report received considerable media attention because of the projection that by 2030 oil production will reach a staggering 8 million barrels per day above projected global demand.

The report cites the proliferation of electric vehicles, the growing utilization of renewable energy, and Chinas declining oil consumption growth are key contributors to this projected trend. However, the IEA still expects oil demand to grow. From a global base of 103.2 million barrels per day (BPD) in 2024, the IEA believes demand will grow to 105.6 million BPD by 2029 and decrease slightly to 105.5 million BPD in 2030 (Table 2 in the report).

Supply growth is expected to be largely driven by non-OPEC+ countries, particularly the United States, Brazil, Guyana, and Canada, which are projected to pump at record levels. Non-OPEC+ countries are predicted to add 6 million BPD of supply by 2030.

In contrast, OPEC+ output is expected to remain relatively steady, with voluntary production cuts being a significant factor in maintaining market stability. The imbalance is projected to have far-reaching implications for geopolitics and may diminish OPECs capacity to influence oil prices.

The IEA makes its supply projections in part by looking at announced projects. However, to project a supply excess, the IEA also must make assumptions regarding depletion in existing fields, future discoveries, and demand trends.

In 2016, Bloomberg made a similar prediction in Another Oil Crash Is Coming, and There May Be No Recovery. The article looked at trends of electric vehicle sales, and wrote If that level of growth continues, the crash-triggering benchmark of 2 million barrels of reduced demand could come as early as 2023. I took exception to the assumptions that were made in the Bloomberg article and concluded:

Thus, dont be surprised in 2023 to see that instead of crude oil demand being 2 million bpd lower than today per the Bloomberg article, we see that oil demand grew despite the continued growth of electric vehicles.

That is in fact what happened. Global oil demand in 2023 was around 5 million BPD higher than it was in 2016 when Bloomberg made the prediction, and as we know oil prices in 2023 certainly didnt signal an oversupply.

But consider what might have happened if the markets took the Bloomberg projections at face value. If investments in oil projects had dried up because of the predicted supply excess, instead of oil prices averaging $78 per barrel in 2023, they might have averaged $130-$150 as supply fell short of demand. Volatile prices can be a consequence of wrong projections.

The bottom line is that it is hard to make these projections, as Bloomberg learned. For that matter, if you had predicted in 2005 that U.S. oil production would grow at the fastest rate of any country over the next decade, energy analysts everywhere would have laughed. But thats exactly what happened.

I dont know if the IEA projection will prove to be accurate. I do know that over the past 10 months, U.S. oil production  although still near record levels  has flattened. Most of the best tight oil sites in the U.S. have been drilled. U.S. oil production may be reaching a plateau, while the IEA is projecting another 2 million BPD of growth in the U.S. by 2030.

There are many assumptions behind the IEAs projection. All it takes is for one or two of those assumptions to be wrong, and the IEAs projections of a staggering excess could be staggeringly wrong.

By Robert Rapier via rrapier.com

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A fire ignited by a drone attack on an oil depot in the southern Russian region of Rostov has gone into its second day with local emergency services still trying to put it out.

According to a Reuters report, the drone attack had been carried out by the Security Service of Ukraine.

Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries and other energy infrastructure have become a fixture this year, with drones the weapon of choice for conducting the strikes.

The series of strikes has affected Russias refining capacity and earlier this year led the U.S. to call on the Ukrainians to stop targeting refineries in order to avoid a fuel price spike ahead of the November elections.

This weeks attack on the oil depot is the second since the start of the month in the region of Rostov. In early June, Ukrainian forces struck an oil refinery in Novosakhatinsk, causing another fire and prompting the suspension of work at the facility.

They also attacked an oil depot in the Belgorod region on the border with Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces, using a kamikaze drone, attacked an oil depot on the territory of the Stary Oskol urban district. As a result of the explosion, one of the tanks caught fire. Four fire crews quickly extinguished the fire. The blast wave blew out the windows in the security building. There were no casualties, the governor of Belgorod said at the time.

The amount of refining capacity affected by Ukrainian drone attacks since the start of the year was estimated at around 600,000 barrels daily in April by Gunvor, the commodity trading major. According to JP Morgan, the amount was much higher, at 900,000 barrels daily. Repairs are ongoing at many sites but it seems the Ukrainians are not heeding the Biden administrations advice to stop targeting oil infrastructure.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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A French Senate report released on Wednesday is calling on the government to scoop up a golden share in giant TotalEnergies in an attempt to gain a strategic veto on issues related to climate change and any notion the company may have of relocating to American shores.

A golden share is a reference to the Frenchs governments legal right to acquire one share in any domestic company for reasons of strategic national interest and then convert that share into a golden share that can veto company actions if deemed necessary for the country.

The Senate report follows a statement last month by TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne that the company was looking into the potential for a primary listing in New York, though he emphasized at the time that the company would not abandon France, Reuters reported in May.

The Senate commission of inquiry, which conducted over 40 hearings to determine whether the energy giant was aligned with national climate goals, examined the mobilized and mobilizable means by the State to ensure compliance by TotalEnergies with climate obligations and of the orientations of France's foreign policy.

The Senate report recommended that the government acquire what it referred to as a golden share in TotalEnergies, but recognized that the French giants energy transition efforts were higher than those carried out by the other hydrocarbon majors, particularly the Anglo-Saxons. The report claimed that TotalEnergies was responsible for only 1.2% of global oil production per day in 2023 and noted that 3% of its final energy production concerned renewable electricity, while 35% of its net investments were in low-carbon energies that same year.

The Senate reports fate remains uncertain at this time, with snap elections set to take place in France in two rounds on June 30 and July 7. French President Emmanuel Macron called snap elections, with his far-right rival, Jordan Bardellau, gunning for future prime minister and calling on voters for a clear majority. Macrons bloc is currently lagging behind the far-right in polls, France24 reported.

TotalEnergies has not officially commented on the Senate report as of the time of writing.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Any future U.S. administration cannot prevent Iran from boosting its oil production and exports, Iranian Petroleum Minister Jawad Owji said on Wednesday.

With the measures that have been taken in President Raisis government in the field of the oil industry, I should announce that any government that comes to power in the US cannot prevent the export and production of Iranian oil, Iranian media quoted Owji as telling Parliament today.

Over the past three years, Iran has increased its crude oil production by 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd), the petroleum minister said.

During this period, Iran launched 150 oil industry projects, worth a total of $34 billion, according to the ministers remarks from a few days ago carried by the news service Shana.

The oil industry grew by 20% last year, the highest growth rate of any Iranian sector of the economy, Owji was quoted as saying.

Last month, the minister said that Iran would soon launch 32 oil industry projects worth a total investment of $4.6 billion.

Iran plans to increase its crude oil output to 4 million bpd, the countrys Tasnim news agency reported at the end of May, as cited by Reuters.

No specific sources for the plan were provided but the original report in Tasnim said that An economic council headed by Irans interim president Mohammad Mokhber has approved a plan to raise the country's oil output from 3.6 million barrels per day to 4 million barrels per day.

Iran has been eager to increase its oil production despite U.S. sanctions that have significantly reduced the market for Iranian oil. Even so, Iran reported an increase in exports of crude recently, with the average daily for the first quarter hitting the highest in six years at 1.56 million bpd according to Vortexa data. Last year, the country exported 1.29 million bpd on average, which was 50% more than a year earlier.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The U.S. Senate this week passed a bill that aims to speed up the construction of new nuclear power generation capacity.

In a major victory for our climate and American energy security, the U.S. Senate has passed the ADVANCE Act with overwhelming, bipartisan support, said the chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Democrat Tom Carper, as quoted by Reuters.

Nuclear power is reemerging in the public discourse about the energy transition because of its emissions-free status as an energy source, which also provides baseload generation, unlike wind and solar.

The news of the nuclear advancement bill comes on the heels of a report showing that the United States is likely 10 to 15 years behind China in deploying fourth-generation nuclear reactors at scale, as Chinese authorities are strongly backing the domestic industry with policies and financing.

The report, by Washington-based research institute Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, China currently has 27 new nuclear reactors under construction and plans to build a total of 150 new nuclear reactors between 2020 and 2035. The average construction timeline for each reactor is about seven years, far faster than for most other nations.

The United States, meanwhile, has hardly built any nuclear reactors in the past decade. It also lacks what the ITIF calls a coherent national strategy and a whole-of-government approach that would give it a chance to once again become a leader in the nuclear space.

The ADVANCE Act could help this happen but it will take a while and require additional support from the government in the form of easier permit procedures. The complexity of the permitting process is one reason nuclear in the U.S. has stalled recently, along with soaring costs in the face of cheaper alternatives such as natural gas. This has pushed investors away from nuclear, complicating the situation further.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Portfolio managers raised their bullish bets on Europes natural gas prices for a second consecutive week, lifting the number of longs close to the highest in more than two years.

The long positions in the Dutch TTF Natural Gas Futures, the benchmark for Europes gas trading, increased again in the past week, and are now near the level from January 2022, just before Russia invaded Ukraine, according to data from Intercontinental Exchange cited by Bloomberg on Wednesday.

Hedge funds and other money managers continue to be concerned about Europes gas supply in the near term, despite comfortable levels of natural gas in EU storage sites. The EUs storage was 74% full as of June 17, according to data from Gas Infrastructure Europe.

Planned maintenance and sudden outages in Norway and the possibility of further cuts to Russian pipeline supply continue to be of concern for traders.

In addition, stronger LNG buying in Asia has recently pulled a lot of spot cargoes away from Europe and to Asia, where prices are higher as utilities grapple to cope with power supply in heat waves.

Supply risks continue to pressure upward European gas prices, which have already jumped on two occasions this month as the market feared supply shocks.

One was the result of an outage at Norways Sleipner Riser offshore huba connection point for pipelines connecting the Nyhamna plant on the west coast of Norway with the Easington terminal in the UK. This unplanned outage sent the Dutch TTF Natural Gas Futures surging by 10% on a single day on June 3, to the highest level in six months.

In the following week, prices rose by 3%, after German energy giant Uniper terminated its Russian gas supply contracts, leaving the market concerned about the remaining flows of gas from Russia to Europe.

The announcement from Uniper and the recent warning from OMV that Gazprom could halt gas supply to Austria due to a foreign court ruling that could interrupt OMV payments to Gazprom Export rekindled concerns about whether Russian supply would be further limited by Gazprom.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Brazil is estimated to hold the worlds third-largest reserves of rare earths, the critical minerals vital for modern technology and the energy transition.

Brazils rare earths mining industry has just started despite the country being a major mining destination for decades.

Established mining industry regulations and lower labor costs compared to Australia or the U.S. could give Brazil a competitive advantage in the race to challenge Chinas oversized dominance in rare earths production and processing.

Brazils rare earths industry is being developed by Brazilian and Australian firms, with U.S. financial backing for some projects. However, the slump in rare earths prices is holding back investments and companies are struggling to obtain funding.

Nevertheless, Brazilian companies persevered and launched early this year a rare earths production project in the country. The Brazilian government is also looking to support the industry in the hope that Brazil could successfully tap its vast resources and become a top producer of rare earth elements (REE) globally.

Huge Resource, Low Costs

Brazil is estimated to hold 21 million tons of rare-earth-oxide (REO) equivalent, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Thats the third-largest deposits in the world, behind Chinas 44 million tons and Vietnams 22 million tons of REO equivalent. By 2023, Brazils production of rare earth elements was a negligible 80 tons, compared to Chinas 240,000 tons and the U.S.s 43,000 tons last year.

Related: Russia Reclaims Its Position as Europes Top Gas Supplier

Brazilian and Australian companies, one with U.S. financial support, look to boost production in Brazil in the coming years.

Lower costs and clear regulations about mining have helped Brazil attract foreign companies looking to invest in its REE industry.

Local developers are also looking for a spot in the race to challenge Chinas dominance in the sector.

I do think outside of China, Brazils projects are the most economic greenfield projects available, Daniel Morgan of Barrenjoey investment bank in Sydney has recently told Reuters.

Labor costs in Brazil are much lower than in Australia or the U.S., while the country has decades of experience in regulating a mining industry.

Efforts of the past year yielded results at the beginning of 2024 when Serra Verde began commercial production of Mixed Rare Earth Concentrate from Phase I of its Pela Ema deposit in Minacu. Once it has ramped up to full production, Serra Verde is expected to produce at least 5,000 tons per year of rare earth oxide used in the manufacture of high-efficiency permanent magnets required for electric vehicle motors and wind turbine generators.

We are now the only company outside Asia to produce at scale all four critical rare earths used in the production of permanent magnets, Serra Verde CEO Thras Moraitis said in January.

Serra Verde already has offtake deals with processing companies for a large part of planned production. The project also boasts lower environmental impact  the electricity supply is entirely sourced from renewable sources and the operation is in an established mining district with access to technical skills and developed road and port infrastructure.

Legacy industrial mining regions, skilled and lower-cost workforce, and access to hydropower for operations make Brazil an attractive destination for REE miners.

Australias mining magnate and richest woman, Gina Rinehart, is a shareholder in Brazilian Rare Earths, which has just completed a $53-million (AUS$80 million) placement to accelerate exploration and development at the Monte Alto, Sulista, and Pele rare earth projects.

Australias Meteoric Resources plans the Caldeira REE project in Brazil, with the goal to begin rare earth production in 2027. The company is in discussions for a $250 million financing from the Export/Import Bank of the United States for the project.

Meteoric Resources CEO Nick Holthouse said in March, when the company announced the potential U.S. financing,

In recent years, there has been increased awareness of the deficiencies in the Western Supply chains for Rare Earth mining and downstream processing. Meteoric, through the Caldeira Project and support from the EXIM Bank, intends to play a part in re-building an independent and vertically integrated rare earth supply chain of scale.

Long Way to Diversification from China

Despite the upsurge in project plans, financing for investments is not easily available.

Getting money at the moment is tough, Meteorics Holthouse told Reuters.

The recent fall in the price of critical minerals and rare earth elements has affected investments in new supply, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said in its Global Critical Minerals Outlook 2024 last month.

While lower prices for critical minerals in the past year have been good news for consumers and affordability, they have also provided a headwind for new investment, whose growth slowed in 2023 compared to 2022, the IEA noted.

Falling prices also make spending to ensure reliable and diversified supply less appealing to investors, the agency advocating for a fast energy transition acknowledges.

The IEA also said that progress in diversifying supply has been limited, with China dominating rare earths production and processing, as it does many other critical minerals.

These high levels of supply concentration represent a risk for the speed of energy transitions, as it makes supply chains and routes more vulnerable to disruption, whether from extreme weather, trade disputes or geopolitics, IEA said.

Brazil has all the premises to be a major rare earths supplier, but companies planning projects there still need to ensure financing for their ventures.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Via Metal Miner

The Raw Steels Monthly Metals Index (MMI) remained sideways, with a modest 1.33% decline from May to June.

As a whole, U.S. flat rolled steel prices appeared bearish, accelerating declines throughout June. HRC prices fell nearly 9%, their most significant month-over-month drop since February. CRC and HDG prices saw respective 6% declines, while plate prices fell 4%.

Bearish Steel Prices Search for New Bottoms

Steel prices remain in search of new bottoms as the market appears increasingly soft. As of June 13, hot rolled coil prices managed to hit their lowest level since October 2023 amid reports of slow demand conditions. Mills reportedly held back on scrap orders, leading some to speculate that June could also see a drop in scrap prices.

Last quarter, mills reported variable performances. While Nucor and SDI saw a pickup in demand from Q4 2023 to Q1 2024, shipments from Cliffs and U.S. Steel declined. All four of these mills saw shipments decline year over year. By the start of Q2, mills were warning markets that impending maintenance outages could substantially tighten domestic supply. However, those warnings offered only temporary support to prices in early April before the downtrend resumed.



Source: MetalMiner Insights

Despite the tepid market response, outages saw domestic raw steel production levels dip throughout April, followed by a gradual recovery during May. By June, domestic steelmakers appeared to tighten output levels again, likely in an attempt to regain control over the market. As of mid-June, steel prices remained bearish, while mill lead times edged lower. This may ultimately force mills to constrict production levels further.

Imports Surge, Especially From Vietnam

Import demand likely played a role in dragging domestic prices lower. After all, U.S. prices carried a wider premium over their global counterparts in early Q2, which helped incentivize import demand. Both March and April saw a jump in flat-rolled steel imports, and license data suggests that trend continued during May as well.

HRC, CRC and HDG Imports, Source: U.S. Department of Commerce

Curiously, since the start of 2024, flat rolled steel import volumes from Vietnam have increased substantially. In fact, their average monthly volumes during the first five months of 2024 rose over 453% from the same period of 2023.

The jump appears driven primarily by HDG, although CRC volumes also saw a considerable rise from their recent average. Beginning in March, Vietnam overtook Mexico as the second-largest exporter of HDG to the U.S. During May, license data showed Vietnam represented over 23% of total volumes. While this is not unheard of, it does raise a few red flags. For more information on how to leverage geopolitical shifts to your advantage, read The Art of Timing Your Buy.

HRC Imports

CRC Imports

HDG Imports

Vietnamese Imports Fuel Chinese Dumping Concerns

Vietnam has faced longstanding accusations of being a dumping ground for Chinese steel. Many point toward the high volume of Chinese HRC imports that enter Vietnam, which the country then processes into CRC and HDG. Such processing efforts make it easier to disguise the materials origin before it finds its way to the export market, potentially circumventing duties placed on Chinese steel.

High import volumes of low-priced Chinese HRC into Vietnam have so far caught the attention of at least two Vietnamese steel manufacturers. On March 19, Hoa Phat Group and Formosa Ha T?nh Steel Corporation submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) to initiate an anti-dumping investigation on Chinese HRC imports.

However, it remains uncertain whether Vietnams MoIT will agree to an investigation amid pushback from other steel manufacturers. The two companies that leveled anti-dumping complaints are the exclusive producers of HRC in Vietnam. Other steel manufacturers, including producers of HDG, noted concern over the impact such an investigation could have on Vietnams overall steel sector. A potential curtailment of Chinese steel supply would invariably mean higher steel prices in Vietnam, making the final products less competitive in the global marketplace.

Vietnams Steel Influx Could Threaten U.S. Market

Currently, the influx of imports from Vietnam to the U.S. appears to have placed significant weight on domestic steel prices. This could see the U.S. initiate a separate anti-dumping investigation or level new protectionist measures directed at Vietnam, as curbing China appears increasingly like a game of whack-a-mole.

Steel tariffs announced in recent months targeted China directly, but those may prove insufficient in holding back the flood of Chinese exports. After all, Chinas steel industry continues to fuel global steel oversupply. While consumer demand within China appears tepid and its construction and property sectors remain in an ongoing downturn, Chinese steel output continues to boom. Meanwhile, industry subsidies allow Chinese steel prices to hold at the bottom of the market, eroding profitability from manufacturers of steel elsewhere.

By Nichole Bastin

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At an event where prominent social and political leaders across Punjab Province were present, Christian leaders and others last week called on the government of Pakistan to amend blasphemy laws and end its indifference to violence against minorities.

A radical Muslim says, Whats the big deal if a Chuhra [derogatory term for Christian] has been killed? and threatens more violence against us, yet our state remains tightlipped, Samson Salamat, chairman of the event sponsor, advocacy organization Rawadari Tehreek, in his inaugural address at the June 12 event the Lahore Press Club. Are Christians not Pakistanis? Are we not equal citizens? Is our blood, honor and existence so worthless to the state?

Salamat criticized Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and other government leaders for failing to condemn the lynching of 74-year-old Nazeer Masih Gill.

Neither the Punjab CM nor any of the other senior government leaders have condemned Gills brutal killing or even shown the courtesy to visit the grieving family and offer their condolences, Salamat said. They havent even said a word on the threats being publicly given to us by an extremist party. What message is the state giving to Christians?

A Muslim mob on May 25 assaulted Gill in Sargodha citys Mujahid Colony after an area Muslim accused him of burning pages of the Quran in the street. The mob, including women and children, pelted Gill with bricks and stones, beat him with sticks and kicked him as he lay bleeding on the ground. He died from his injuries on June 3.

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The assailants also burned down his familys shoe workshop and looted and ransacked his house.

Though he was falsely accused and heinously assaulted, police registered a case against Gill under blasphemy and anti-terrorism laws. The complainant in the case was a local leader of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a Muslim extremist group involved in violent attacks on Christians, including assaults in Jaranwala on Aug. 16.

Peter Jacob of the Center of Social Justice highlighted repeated failures of police and law enforcement agencies to protect minorities and their properties from mob violence stoked by blasphemy allegations.

We are shocked by the governments silence and inaction, Jacob said. The states reluctance to act against perpetrators of violence will only embolden them to carry on with such atrocities.

A veteran rights advocate and one of eight recipients of the U.S. State Departments Religious Freedom Award 2024, Jacob also called for formation of a commission to investigate all violence related to blasphemy allegations, from the burning of villages to mob lynchings.

Tahir Naveed Chaudhry, a Christian and former lawmaker from Sargodha, strongly criticized the TLP for inciting hatred against Christians.

There have been 10 incidents of alleged blasphemy in Sargodha since last year, of which Christians were accused in four cases, while the remaining six were against Muslims, Chaudhry said. Why are only Christians attacked and killed by TLP members, while Muslims have remained untouched? Its clear that Christians are the main target of TLP and other organizations, and they are using blasphemy to settle personal issues against our community members.

Recent protests by TLP were a tactic to pressure police and government officials to release its arrested activists, Chaudhry said.

Christians across the board should unite to raise their voices against growing extremism and demand punishment for all those responsible for Gills killing, he said.

Irfan Mufti, a Muslim and chairman of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of 35-member civil society organizations, echoed the concerns raised by the Christian speakers.

As a Muslim, I strongly condemn increasing incidents of religious extremism and violence against Christians, Mufti said. The states silence will be akin to patronizing the perpetrators if it does nothing to protect the minority citizens.

Other speakers, including Minorities Alliance Pakistan Chairman Akmal Bhatti, Maseehi Bedari Tehreek President Imran Shahzad Sahotra, Christian lawmaker Ejaz Alam Augustine, rights activist Lala Robin Daniel and Christians True Spirit Executive Director Katerine Sapna, demanded speedy and fair trials for those involved in the Jaranwala attacks and the lynching of Gill.

They also stressed the urgent need to ban extremist groups that propagate hate and incite violence against religious minorities under the guise of blasphemy laws.

At the end of the event, the leaders proposed a comprehensive de-radicalization plan, including strict implementation of hate-speech laws, removal of biased content from educational curricula, and a zero-tolerance policy for extremist groups and their supporters.

The participants collectively pledged to intensify their efforts against religious extremism, intolerance, and violence targeting religious minorities across Pakistan. They emphasized the urgency of addressing the misuse of blasphemy laws, frequently abused to settle personal scores and incite sectarian sentiments, disproportionately affecting religious minorities.

Letter to Prime Minister

At the same time, the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) has issued an open letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urging immediate action to address the escalating violence and attacks against minority communities in Pakistan.

The NCHR, established under the NCHR Act XVI of 2012, has a mandate to promote and protect human rights in accordance with Pakistans Constitution, domestic laws, and international treaties. The commission investigates human rights abuses and advises the government on legislative, policy, and administrative matters.

The letter highlights several recent cases of violence against minorities, including the killings of Tahir Iqbal, an Ahmadi, in Bahawalpur; Prince Masih, a Christian, in Rawalpindi; Priya, a Hindu, in Karachi; Ashfaq Masih, a Christian, in Miranshah; Nazeer Masih Gill, a Christian, in Sargodha; and most recently, Ghulam Sarwar and Rahat Ahmad Bajwa, both Ahmadis, in Mandi Bahauddin.

These incidents point to a troubling trend of growing intolerance and violence against minority communities in Pakistan, the letter states. The NCHR emphasizes that extremist ideologies and the radicalization of youth are critical issues that need urgent attention.

The Commission has also been approached by representatives of the international community regarding Pakistans compliance with the Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). This year, Pakistan is required to report on measures adopted to uphold the rights described in these conventions and the progress made.

The NCHR called for decisive government action, including strengthening protections for minorities by ensuring law enforcement agencies are adequately trained and equipped, especially during vulnerable times such as religious holidays. The commission also urged implementation of a comprehensive strategy to combat radicalization, including education reforms that promote tolerance and inclusivity.

Additionally, it stressed the need for clear mechanisms for reporting and addressing attacks on minorities, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and victims receive justice.

Pakistan ranked seventh on Open Doors 2024 World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian, as it was the previous year.
FOREST PARK, Illinois  Mayumi Barrack sees a pair of mating periodical cicadas getting together, whips out her phone, says, Hi guys!" and takes their picture.

I'm not really a bug person, but as I look more and more I feel they are adorable, Barrack explained, noting that many other creatures  birds, squirrels, raccoons and more  are just as eager to get close to the bugs, if only to turn them into food. I just want to document they existed.

Barrack has posted more than 4,600 photos of the bugs on the Cicada Safari app for cicada enthusiasts. That's 2,000 more than her nearest competitor. She's the queen of cicada chasers, though she doesn't really chase  most of the pictures are from her backyard  and she sees herself more as a mother to the bugs than as a queen.

I'm caring for them, said Barrack, standing in her tree-and-flower filled suburban Chicago backyard.

Periodical cicadas are strange, with eccentricities that include super-strong urine flow and a zombie fungus infection. But their superfans are unusual, too, or at least highly passionate.

Gene Kritsky, a professor of biology at Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, has been working toward this year's massive cicada emergence for decades. He first heard about cicadas in 1972 and has been studying and chasing them since 1974. He wrote the book on the current emergence, A Tale of Two Broods. He also created the cicada tracking app that enthusiasts like Barrack use to post pictures and find where the bugs are in large numbers.

This is the third time Kritsky has mapped Brood XIII of the cicadas. That's quite an accomplishment since they come out only every 17 years.

Often wearing a safari hat that makes him look like the Indiana Jones of cicadas, which he has been called, Kritsky and his artist wife, Jessee Smith, have driven back and forth from Ohio to Illinois several times this spring to revel in the bugs. Over several long nights at a forest north of Chicago, he's seen massive numbers including his first one-in-a-million blue-eyed cicada. He cited the May 24 emergence as incredible with thousands coming out that night at his location.

Periodical cicadas are the gateway drug to natural history, Kritsky said.

For New York City chef Joseph Yoon, cicadas aren't just amazing, they're dinner. His Brooklyn Bugs company is on a mission to spread the word about the taste and sustainability of edible insects, though he knows many people are grossed out by the thought.

Yoon spent nine days in Illinois collecting, freezing and then bagging tens of thousands of cicadas. After getting back home, he served up tempura cicada to 400 people at a Syracuse University event.

Yoon said collecting and cooking cicadas is quite painful for me because I love the cicada so much.

But he added: At the same I also can acknowledge and appreciate that each one of these cicadas' lives represents a potential to transform somebody's perception or opinion about eating insects.

Yoon's friend, Wisconsin artist and professor Jennifer Angus, also sees the beauty in cicadas and other insects  so much so that she incorporates the actual bugs into her art. Sometimes she put them in outfits and posed them as dolls.

I love them because they just have great faces and bulging eyes and theyre very hardy, Angus said. They stand up to the wear and tear at my exhibitions.

I find their faces humorous, Angus said.

Renee Martin is an architecture professor at the University of Kentucky who also dabbles in puppetry. For a Cincinnati puppet festival three years ago  when Brood X was making big news on the East Coast  someone suggested she come up with a cicada costume or puppet.

What would I do? A cicada strip-tease? she asked her friends, who gave a resounding yes.

She worked up something between a puppet and a costume for that festival, then hauled it out again for this year's big emergence, putting on a show in a Cincinnati alley for friends, neighbors and visiting journalists.

Martin, wearing faux fishnet stockings and moving comically to stripper music, starts out as a cardboard pale nymph and then bursts through as a red-eyed adult nymph. The audience added to the effect with noisemakers and cries of ooh la la and sexy cicada.

Meanwhile, photos of cicadas are swarming in to Kritsky's app, with nearly 5,000 people posting. About 150 people have posted at least 100 cicada pictures, but none is close to Barrack  who said she's surprised to be leading.

I have so many pictures I haven't sent yet," she said.
GRAND ISLAND, Neb.  A 72-year-old Eureka, Missouri, man suffered fatal injuries in an assault that took place Wednesday morning at the westbound rest area on Interstate 80 in Hall County.

The man, who had suffered knife wounds, was pronounced dead at Grand Island Regional Hospital, according to the Hall County Sheriffs Office.

A second victim, a 71-year-old woman, also from Eureka, suffered life-threatening injuries. She was transported by ambulance to Grand Island Regional Hospital, where she remains in critical condition.

Hall County sheriffs deputies believe the assault began as an attempted robbery.

The suspect in the case, James Thompson Jr. of Elyria, Ohio, fled from the scene by vehicle. The 22-year-old was pursued and apprehended by the Nebraska State Patrol.

Deputies responded to the scene at 7:08 a.m. in reference to a disturbance.

The Hall County Sheriffs Office will continue the investigation. An autopsy has been ordered for the 72-year-old man.

Assistance was provided by the Grand Island Police Department, Grand Island Ambulance, Doniphan QRT and Wood River Fire.
EUREKA  Woodford County Board members on Tuesday got a glimpse into how busy the county's new animal control operation has been since it was launched April 4.

Sheriff Matt Smith, the animal control warden, provided board members with a report of May activities that showed deputy animal wardens Alan Burton and Jacob Waller were kept hopping.

"Very impressive. Very helpful," board chairman Chuck Nagel said about the report.

"Kudos for putting together this report," said board member Tim Wilcoxen.

Burton and Waller give the county animal control coverage seven days a week. One deputy warden works a 12-hour day, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week.

The county purchased two trucks for animal control operations.

"The board is getting what it paid for," Smith said during an interview earlier Tuesday. "Our operation is quick and efficient."

It's also helping get dogs adopted. Smith said Burton and Waller have gone to community events like the Germantown Hills Spring Fling and Market Days in Eureka with adoptable dogs from the county's shelter in their truck, and have gotten dogs adopted or fostered.

"That's next level," Smith said. "We thought at first about getting the word out about adoptable dogs on Facebook. Going to community events is a much better idea. People may not want to go to a shelter to meet dogs. They will go to a community event to meet them."

Burton and Waller also are sheriff's deputies. Smith said based on previous animal control call information and other sources, he suspected the deputy wardens' workload would be split 50/50 between animal control and police work.

"That estimate was a shot in the dark, to be honest," Smith said. "We've found the deputy wardens are doing significantly more animal control work than police work. There is so much to do in animal control with things like follow-ups, and trips to our kennel in Eureka and our vet in Bloomington."

Here are highlights of Smith's May animal control report:

Dog calls: 60 (includes loose, stray, vicious dogs, etc.)

Most dog calls by community: 12 in Metamora, seven each in Eureka and Washburn

Animal control ordinance citations: 14

Dogs in kennel: Six (two held by order of the state's attorney, and four available for adoption)

Adoptions and fosters: Three

Here are highlights of Smith's April animal control report, which was presented to the county board last month:

Total calls: 60

Most calls by community: 13 in Washburn, six in Eureka

Animal control ordinance citations: Eight

Dogs in kennel: Five (three surrendered, one impounded because of a cruelty investigation, and one unclaimed)

Adoption: "Bear," for training in Peoria as a service dog

The county formerly used an independent contractor to handle animal control operations.

After a controversial euthanization of a cat that lived in a Eureka beauty salon, and the firing of the county's animal control administrator in April 2023, the board decided to bring animal control operations in-house with the sheriff's department.

Also Tuesday, the board approved:

Using $185,000 in Rebuild Illinois funds to pay for the installation of a new roof on the Woodford County Courthouse. The county will receive reimbursement from the state for the project, which was completed in 2020. The actual cost of the work, done by Kreiling Roofing Company of Peoria, was $186,686.

The re-appointments Greg Slayton to the Secor Fire Protection Board for a three-year term, and Erik Brewer to the Woodford County Housing Authority for a one-year term.

Close Eureka High School, 200 W. Cruger Ave., is shown on March 11, 2024. Eureka High School, 200 W. Cruger Ave., is shown on March 11, 2024. Eureka High School, 200 W. Cruger Ave., is shown on March 11, 2024. Photos: Scenes from Eureka, Illinois Eureka High School, 200 W. Cruger Ave., is shown on March 11, 2024. Eureka High School, 200 W. Cruger Ave., is shown on March 11, 2024. Eureka High School, 200 W. Cruger Ave., is shown on March 11, 2024.
CHICAGO  A warehouse on Chicago's west side has been destroyed by a massive fire, and two firefighters were injured while battling the flames, officials said.

Hundreds of firefighters responded after the fire broke out at the Commercial Pallet warehouse in West Town on Tuesday evening. The fire was fueled by high winds, and a plume of black smoke that billowed over the neighborhood could be seen for miles.

Two firefighters were injured and transported to the hospital in good condition, Chicago Fire Department First District Chief Jim McDonough said. No warehouse employees were injured, McDonough said.

Emergency crews appeared to be leaving the scene Wednesday morning around 6 a.m.

The fire department did not immediately respond to calls seeking comment on the blaze.

Authorities have released no information on the cause of the fire, but said the building was a total loss.

The huge blaze forced transportation authorities to halt Metra commuter train service in the area. Chicago's Office of Emergency Management & Communications said the fire damaged some train tracks.

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Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, the distinguished academic and vice-presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has been honoured with a traditional leadership title for her immense developmental contribution.



The honorary title of Pognaa Piirima, Dagaare for Mother of the Rocks, was bestowed on her by the Sankana Traditional Council as part of activities celebrating the Kalibi Tigri Festival of the people of Sankana in the Upper West region over the weekend.



While in the region, Professor Opoku-Agyemang earlier visited the Wa market, where she met and interacted with locals, who expressed excitement at seeing the esteemed Stateswoman.



The Paramount Chief, Naa Pagranige Saakoe Mornah III in his address, lauded the scholar for her unwavering commitment to the people of Sankana and her contributions to education and development in the region.



"This title is not just an honour; it signifies a deep bond and mutual respect between Jane Naana Opoku Agyeman and the people of Sankana," he remarked.



Adding: "Her dedication and service to our community have been exemplary, and we are proud to recognize her as 'Mother of the Rocks.



Professor Naana Opoku-Agyeman shared a heartfelt statement, expressing her deep connection to Sankana, noting that it held sentimental value for her as it was where she conducted some of her earliest research.



Speaking about her connection to Sankana, Professor Opoku-Agyemang mentioned improvements made to educational facilities in the area during her tenure under President Mahama. She warmly accepted the honour, emphasizing its importance to her.



"I look forward to contributing even more to the progress of Sankana, and invite everyone to join me to celebrate these wonderful people, " Professor Opoku-Agymang wrote in a statement following her enskinment.



Prof. Naana Opoku-Agyemang recently was also enskinned as a Development Queenmother in the Samini Traditional Area of the newly created North East Region, with the title Ziiniaya Daana, meaning Queen of Development and Light.

Source: Clifford Yaw Frimpong - Contributor









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Featured Video
A representative of the Commandant at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping and Training Centre (KAIPTC), Colonel (Col) Emmanuel Gyadu has emphasized that peace is a critical prerequisite for national, regional, and global development.



He stated that without peace, societies fall into chaos and disorder, causing them to stagnate and suffer.



Delivering a welcome address on behalf of the Commandant during a two-week Political Advisors Course for Peace Support Operations in Africa, developed by the Centre in collaboration with the Austrian Federal Ministry of Defense, Col. Emmanuel Gyadu highlighted the increasing international efforts to end wars, stabilize fragile states, and rebuild war-torn societies, particularly in the West African sub-region and the African continent as a whole.



He noted that an unprecedented number of peace operations and political missions have been deployed to address crises, manage violent conflicts, and maintain or restore peace adding that currently, five out of the eleven ongoing peacekeeping missions under the UN are in Africa, underscoring the need for training political advisors to support these peace operations.



Col. Gyadu emphasized the critical role of political advisors in missions, stating that they provide mission leadership with vital analyses of political developments, trends, and emerging issues in their areas of operation. These advisors also make recommendations on policies, strategies, and other measures to address these issues effectively.



In an interview with Peace News, a representative from the Austrian Ministry of Defense expressed Austria's commitment to fostering better peace and security in Africa.



He pointed out that decisions made on the African continent have significant impacts on Europe, reinforcing the importance of seeking prosperity for both continents.













Source: Prince Baffour Asamoah/Peace FM Newsroom









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Graham Lyons-inventor of the Lyons C clarinet, which allowed children to study the instrument earlier-has died.

Lyons started the piano at six, and, even without formal training, continued to play into adulthood. However, his true passion lay with the clarinet, which he took up at thirteen years old, inspired by Benny Goodman. After reading physics at Oxford, he studied the bassoon and composition at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, paying for his tuition by playing the piano, clarinet, and saxophone.

In the following years, Lyons played the clarinet, flute, saxophone and bassoon in clubs, on stage, and on radio, and wrote music for television, bands, cabarets, and BBC light orchestras. However, he is best remembered for his contributions to music education. Besides teaching, Lyons wrote countless pieces for young learners, more than half a million copies of which have been sold. He also created the website, usefulmusic.com-where he is described as "one of the most successful composers of educational music in Britain"-and its accompanying YouTube channel, "to make it much easier for [his] fellow teachers to find music for their students to play."

Lyons is also an inventor, and is credited with creating the Lyons C clarinet, which won the British Design Award in 1993. The plastic instrument is shorter and lighter than the standard B-flat clarinet, making it more accessible to young musicians. Now sold as the Clarineo by the company, NUVO, the instrument is advertised as possessing a range capable of performing Mozart's Clarinet Concerto.

Videos of his compositions and recordings have amassed hundreds of millions of views on YouTube.
The Chairman of the Gomoa Ojobi Community, Apostle Robert Afraku, has stated that the community members do not recognize the patient who was found deceased in a bush at Gomoa Ojobi in the Central Region.



This statement was made in response to allegations surrounding the abandonment of a patient in the area. The incident gained significant attention on Thursday, June 13, when a video from UTV began circulating on social media.



The video purportedly shows a woman wrapped in sheets, left in a bush, and social media users quickly alleged that she had been dumped there by an ambulance from the Trauma and Specialist Hospital in Winneba.



In an interview with Peace FM News, Mr. Afraku emphasized that the woman is neither a member nor a visitor known to the Gomoa Ojobi community. He also mentioned that no one in the community recognizes any relatives of the deceased woman.



According to him, the woman had an accident in the Ojobi community, which led to the assumption by Ghanaians and the hospital that she was from the same town.



He clarified that the connection is merely circumstantial, stemming from the location of the accident, and does not indicate that she was a resident of Gomoa Ojobi.



Mr. Afraku added that every community has its members who oversee and manage its affairs. He suggested that the hospital should have reported the case to the community authorities instead of abandoning the woman in the bush.











Source: Portia Mensah Bonsu/Peace FM Newsroom









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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End Point Homeopathic Clinic, the leading homeopathic clinic in Ghana has marked the annual Fathers Day celebration with free health screening of about 1,000 fathers across its 6 branches in Ghana.



Fathers Day is celebrated globally to honour fathers, as well as fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society.



On 17 June 2024, End Point Homeopathic Clinic offered free screening to all fathers in relation to Liver, Hepatitis, Kidney, Blood, Sugar, Pressure, Haemoglobin, and Prostate issues as well as infections such as Syphilis and Gonorrhea at its branches in Accra (Spintex), Tema (Community 22), Kumasi (Aboahia), Takoradi (Anaji), Techiman and Asiama (Nzema).



The free screening exercise which started at 5 am ended at 9 pmwith each person screened costing the clinic an average of 1,200 GHS.



Dr Adu Boateng, CEO/Founder of End Point Homeopathic Clinic who was at the clinics Spintex branch for the screening stated: this is the 5th year End Point Homeopathic Clinic is offering fathers access to free screening across its branches and the attendance has always been impressive.



He added that: End Point Homeopathic Clinic is serious about its corporate social responsibility and therefore the clinic engages in such exercises to give back to society.



While this exercise has seen a massive turnout, health screenings by both men and women should be done regularly and not necessarily annually to ensure early diagnosis and treatment where necessary, Dr Adu Boateng said.



The free health screening was covered by Adom FM, Adom TV, UTV, and OKAY FM.







About Endpoint Homeopathic Clinic



Endpoint Homeopathic Clinic is an award-winning provider of quality healthcare and unparalleled services in Ghana; promoting and advancing the science of homeopathy for the past 14 years.



The clinic has branches at Spintex-Accra, Community 22 Tema, Takoradi, Kumasi, Asiama (Nzema) and Techiman.



As a forward-looking health delivery outlet, Endpoint Homeopathic Clinic provides the very latest research-based homeopathic treatments with a service that is second to none.



The clinic is committed to patient satisfaction as the primary driver of its healthcare delivery.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Atwima Nwabiagya Municipal Health Promoter, Eunice Nti, has appealed to parents to desist from encouraging their children to engage in work that could endanger their lives and also deprive them of their childhood.



She asked the parents to be concerned about the education of their children and encouraged them to go to school rather than engage in activities to earn an income. She said a high number of children in the district were engaged in illegal mining while others were also engaged in fishing at the expense of their education and the parents seemed to be unconcerned.



She said some of the activities were very dangerous even for adults and not to talk about children and said it was the responsibility of the parents to ensure they stopped the kids from engaging in such activities.



Word Day Against Child Labour

Ms Nti, who was speaking at a durbar organised by Winrock International, an international non-governmental organisation (NGO), at Nerebehi to commemorate this years World Day Against Child Labour (WDACL), which is celebrated on June 12, noted that children who were engaged in fishing were exposed to a skin infection, which had become common in the district.



This years celebration was on the theme: Lets Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour, and was marked by a float by pupils from communities within Atwima Nwabiagya to create awareness on child labour, a quiz among schools to test their knowledge on child labour and a drama on the subject.



It was organised by Winrock International in partnership with four cocoa farmers associations, namely Kuapa Kokoo Farmers Union, Kokoo Pa Farmers Association, Offinso Fine Flavour Cocoa Cooperative and Hiawu Besease Cooperative where Winrock is implementing the MATE MASIE Project.



Making Advances to Eliminate Child Labour in More Areas with Sustainable Integrated Efforts (MATE MASIE) is a four-year project being implemented in four districts in the Ashanti Region to combat child labour and to build the capacity of cooperatives to support vulnerable member households both directly and by linking their members with other service providers.



It is funded by the United States (US) Department of Labours Bureau of International Labour Affairs.



Importance

Addressing the durbar, the Deputy Director of MATE MASIE Project, Reynolds Kisiedu, said the theme was to remind all of the commitment made to end the menace of child labour in the world, particularly in Africa.



He said despite the dangers of the practice, child labour was still ongoing in the country and called on all stakeholders to join forces to end it. He said over the years, the project had built the capacity of the cooperatives where it was operating and supported vulnerable households with inputs to reduce the temptations of engaging their under-aged children in hazardous work to the detriment of their education.



He said the project also organised training for the communities and enhanced the capacities of the cooperatives and district child protection committees in addressing child labour.

Source: graphiconline.com









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A member of the United Kingdoms House of Lords, Rt. Hon. Paul Boateng, has urged leaders of Ghanas political movement to make positive strides in breaking the current cycle of dependence on external aid to increase development.



Lord Paul Boateng made the call while addressing participants at the 2024 Annual leadership lecture at the Kofi Ohene-Konadu Auditorium at the University of Professional Studies in Accra on Tuesday June 18, 2024.



His assertion comes after President Akufo-Addo underscored the need for Africa to wean itself off external aid.



Rt. Hon. Paul Boateng said, Break the vicious cycle of dependence on external aid. Who here does not remember the moment His Excellency the President [Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo] stood next to the president of France [Emmanuel] Macron and went viral and made the point about the need for us to cease to have to rely on external aid if we are to break that vicious cycle of dependence on external aid and those great powers who have fed and continue to feed on Africas resources and whose activities with their willing collaborators hold Africa down in an impoverished and conflicted posture?



According to him, Ghana is wallowing in poverty due to the culture of overly depending on external aid for financial freedom.



He added that, it is disappointing for a social media user to rate high a Dutch passport over a Ghanaian PhD holder.



He said, We are held down in an impoverished and conflicted posture by our dependence on external aid and the great powers, and it is something terrible when a statement on the internet that a Dutch Passport is worth more than a Ghanaian PhD.



It is something terrible when that goes viral on the internet. We cannot allow it to be so and leadership must be at the heart of our response.

Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









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Nana Akomea has rebuked the protesters of the "Hands Off Our Hotels" demonstration which occurred in Accra on Tuesday, June 18.



Hundreds of Ghanaians consisting of organized labour and leading members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) hit the streets in protest against the sale of four hotels to Rock City Hotel, a company owned by Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Agriculture.



The demonstration turned confrontational when the demonstrators decided to march into the Jubilee House but were prevented by the Police.



The protesters reportedly pelted stones at the Police who in return released tear gas and pepper spray to disperse them.



But to Nana Akomea, this demonstration was unnecessary.



The STC Chief Executive Officer, tackling the matter during a panel discussion show "Kokrokoo" on Peace FM, questioned the relevance of the protest stressing the organizers have already petitioned CHRAJ to investigate the SSNIT hotel sale, hence he expects them to allow the Commission to do their job.



"I don't see the importance of the demonstration because you, the demonstrators, have already petitioned CHRAJ over the issue," he stated.



Watch video below





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Kwamena Duncan has descended on Richard Jakpa, a third accused person in the trial involving the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, regarding a shady ambulance purchase deal.



The Attorney-General, Godfred Dame has sued Ato Forson for failing to purchase some 200 ambulances for Ghana while he was Deputy Finance Minister during the Atta Mills/Mahama regime.



Richard Jakpa and Ato Forson were reportedly spearheading the transaction but have been accused by the Attorney-General for causing financial loss to the State.



During the trial at the High Court presided by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, Jakpa also accused lawyer Godfred Dame of approaching him to build a case against Ato Forson.



A secret audio recording of Jakpa and the A-G has also appeared before the court but the recording which was earlier played by the opposition National Democratic Congress in a press conference to implicate the A-G has turned out to be "doctored" as the court demands the full tape.



Commenting on the issue during Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, Kwamena Duncan, a former Minister for Central Region, slammed Jakpa and the NDC saying the court has exposed their deception.



To him, Jakpa is trying to play smart and for the NDC, their plot was to slander the Attorney-General but it has backfired due to the revelation that the tape played by them was a shorter version of the entire conversation between the A-G and Jakpa.



He added it has also been proven that it wasn't the A-G who approached Jakpa as the latter claimed but rather he (Jakpa) was the one who went to the Attorney-General for plea bargain.



This, he said, in relation to the proof that Jakpa had sent over 60 WhatsApp messages to lawyer Godfred Dame who gave only two replies.



"When you look at his life, indeed this is only a person who wants to be smart. Who after doing what he did wants to use some means to be able to get himself out of the strong clutches of the law," Kwamena concluded.



Background



Jakpa and Ato Forson have been accused before a High Court of causing financial loss of 2.37 million to the State in a deal to purchase 200 ambulances for the country between 2014 and 2016.



Per the A-Gs facts accompanying the charge sheet, in 2009, while delivering the State of the Nation Address, the then President, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, indicated that new ambulances would be purchased to expand the operations of the National Ambulance Service.



Jakpa, a local representative of Big Sea General Trading Limited, a company based in Dubai, approached the Ministry of Health with a proposal that he had arranged for finance from Stanbic Bank for supply of the 200 ambulances but subsequently 30 ambulances were purchased at a sum of 2.37 million, however all were found not fit for purpose.

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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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:

Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The Sun Corridor in Arizona in the semi-arid Southwestern U.S. is a land of seeming unlimited growth that is constantly colliding with physical constraints. It is mountainous but also home to a large valley that includes one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the U.S.

While experiencing explosive growth, the Phoenix metropolitan area faces an uncertain future due to prolonged drought and fluctuating seasonal water availability. Planning for the future, especially in terms of water, has long been both a challenge and a staple of life in Arizona.

Now a team of researchers working with a weather model have uncovered new details of water availability in Arizona's uplands and where that water comes from. The work may help in future planning of the Phoenix metropolitan area, as well as provide guides for coming precipitation seasons.

The Arizona uplands is home to the Salt-Verde watershed, which feeds the Arizona reservoir system and helps provide critical water resources needed to support the 5 million plus residents and businesses of Phoenix. The Salt-Verde watershed, located north-northeast of Phoenix, feeds a series of rivers in Arizona that provide about half of the municipal, industrial and agricultural water supply to the Phoenix metro area.

The rivers in this watershed are less sensitive to warming temperatures than many other important rivers in the western U.S. Therefore, warming temperatures are not an effective predictor of future Salt-Verde streamflow making the future of winter precipitation extremely important to understand.

The new workcarried out by a team of researchers from Arizona State University; Salt River Project (SRP), an Arizona utility; and Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spainfocuses on the precipitation in the Salt-Verde watershed during the winter months. It represents a new approach to improved precipitation predictability for Arizona and the Salt-Verde watershed.

Results of the work are reported in a paper titled "Modeling Salt-Verde Watershed Winter Precipitation Using Convection-Permitting WRF-Simulations with Water Vapor Tracers" in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres.

The researchers applied a model (the Weather Research and Forecasting model, or WRF) with an important refinement that has been used in only a few locations elsewhere in the world to improve understanding of precipitation predictability. This new work pinpoints where wintertime precipitation for Arizona comes.

One surprising finding is that it is not the area normally associated with El Nino/La Nina, (equatorial tropical Pacific). The team found that the sea surface temperature across an area bounded by 140W and 100W, excluding the El Nino/La Nina areas, is the dominant source area of water for wintertime precipitation for Arizona.

Moreover, this work indicates that if sea surface temperature anomalies, or deviation from an average value of this newly pinpointed region is known, then that information can be used as a guide to wintertime precipitation forecasting for Arizona.

"We have identified the main moisture source region for wintertime precipitation across Arizona's mountains," said Matei (Matt) Georgescu, an associate professor in Arizona State University's School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning and the director of the Urban Climate Research Center.

"This is a critical step in allowing us to improve seasonal precipitation forecasts for Arizona and potentially other regions across the globe as well."

"The importance of evaporation from the Pacific Ocean near North America for Salt-Verde precipitation was surprising," explained Bohumil (Bo) Svoma, a meteorologist at SRP and a co-author of the paper.

"In the western U.S., much attention is given to atmosphere river events that bring moisture to the West Coast from sub-tropical areas farther west in the Pacific where warm oceans during El Nino events provide a significant source of moisture. Since El Nino events tend to result in wet winters for Arizona, it was surprising that this central Pacific moisture source is not as important for Arizona precipitation."

Previous work by Svoma and Georgescu, led by Joseph Karanja, a Ph.D. student at ASU, indicated that none of the standard El Nino/La Nina metrics provide a robust relationship determining spatial and temporal variability in historically observed wintertime precipitation for the Southwestern U.S.

In the new work, the researchers took historical data for three different types of El Nino/La Nina winters (warmer than average, average and cooler than average) and ran those through the WRF for the four-month periods of December through March to simulate precipitation and examine the model's performance with the historical data on rainfall.

In each case it did match, with the warmer (El Nino) winter coinciding with more precipitation, the normal winter with somewhat less and the cooler winter (La Nina) experiencing even less precipitation.

The researchers then reran the WRF model where they masked individual geographical regions, which determines how much water sourced from that specific area eventually falls as precipitation over the Salt-Verde watershed.

In total, these simulations revealed the main source for the precipitation Arizona typically experiences during winter. That location, an area bounded by 140W and 100W and south of 40N, excludes the El Nino/La Nina area commonly referred to as the El Nino 3.4 region.

"Our work sheds new light by highlighting that the standard El Nino/La Nina region may be less important, at least in terms of direct water vapor transport for Arizona seasonal/ winter precipitation than previously thought," Georgescu said.

"Rather than focusing attention on sea surface temperature variability over the El Nino 3.4 region, we need to pay greater attention to sea surface temperatures closer to the U.S.-Baja coastline."

"Even for the cold (i.e., La Nina) winter, where tropical sea surface temperatures are colder than average, more than half of the water that fell over Arizona originates from what we define as local sea evaporation, which we bound as between meridians 140W and 100W off the North American West Coast and south of 40N," said Francisco Salamanca-Palou, an ASU assistant research professor of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning and lead author of the study.

The researchers say the tool can be useful to water managers in better understanding the source of water that falls in any location for a given storm or season. While it can be applied elsewhere, its use in Arizona is clear.

"Climate model projections of winter precipitation in Arizona are highly uncertain," Svoma said. "Detailed research about the current climate is an important initial step for advancing our understanding of future precipitation in Arizona."

"This research is critical for long term water supply planning in Arizona," he added.

More information: Modeling Salt-Verde Watershed Winter Precipitation Using Convection-Permitting WRF-Simulations with Water Vapor Tracers, Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres (2024). Journal information: Journal of Geophysical Research - Atmospheres
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:

During Mars missions, astronauts will be away from Earth for long periods of time, with limited access to medical resources. Credit: CU/LASP EMM/EXI ITF/Kevin M. Gill, CC BY

In the coming decade, more people will go to space than ever before as human spaceflight enters a new era. NASA, the European Space Agency and other governmental agencies are partnering to develop crewed missions beyond the moon. At the same time, these agencies are collaborating with private companies using new technologies to drive down the price of space exploration.

Companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin and Sierra Space have developed vehicles with reusable boosters, automated flight systems and lightweight materials to support these deep space missions. Some even have ambitions of their own to build private space stations, moon bases or mining operations in the coming decades.

But as these technologies and partnerships rapidly make spaceflight more accessible, new challenges emerge: for one, maintaining the health and performance of an astronaut crew. My team of researchers and educators at the University of Colorado and others around the world are looking to address this issue.

Emerging medical challenges in space

NASA astronauts are some of the most accomplished people on the planet, and they're some of the healthiest. Astronauts undergo extensive medical and psychological testing that in one study disqualified 26% of final-round applicants. This rigorous screening and testing process effectively limits the chance of a medical event occurring during a mission.

But as spaceflight becomes more accessible, astronaut crews on commercial missions will likely make up the majority of space travelers in the coming years. Private missions will be short and stay in a close orbit around Earth in the near term, but private crews will likely have less training and more chronic medical conditions than the professional astronauts currently living and working in space.

While experiments aboard the International Space Station have extensively studied the normal physiological changes occurring to the human system in weightlessness, there is limited to no data about how common chronic diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure behave in the space environment.

This industry boom is also creating opportunities for long-duration missions to the moon and Mars. Because of the length of missions and the distance from Earth, professional astronauts on these missions will experience prolonged weightlessness, leading to bone and muscle loss, communication delays of a few seconds up to 40 minutes, and extreme isolation for months to years at a time.

Crews must function autonomously, while being exposed to new hazards such as lunar or Martian dust. Because of the fuel required for these missions, resources will be limited to the lowest mass and volume possible.

As a result, mission planners will need to make difficult decisions to determine what supplies are truly necessary in advance, with limited or unavailable resupply opportunities for food, water and medicine. In space, for example, radiation and humidity inside a spacecraft can cause medications to deteriorate more quickly and become unavailable or even toxic to crew members.

Crews on the space station have access to a flight surgeon at Mission Control to help manage medical care in the same way telehealth is used on Earth. Crews on distant planets, however, will need to perform medical care or procedures autonomously.

In the event of a medical emergency, crews may not be able to evacuate to Earth. Unlike the space station, where medical evacuations to Earth can occur in less than 24 hours, lunar evacuations may take weeks. Evacuations from Mars may not be possible for months or even years.

Put simply, the current approaches to medical care in spaceflight will not meet the needs of future commercial and professional astronauts. Researchers will need to develop new technologies and novel training approaches to prepare future providers to treat medical conditions in space.

The current leaders in space medicine are either experts in aerospace engineering or in medicine, but rarely do experts have formal training or a complete understanding of both fields. And these disciplines often can't speak each other's language both literally and figuratively.

Training the next generation

To meet the evolving demands of human spaceflight, educators and universities are looking to develop a way to train specialists who understand both the limitations of the human body and the constraints of engineering design.

Some schools and hospitals, such as the University of Texas Medical Branch, have residency training programs for medical school graduates in aerospace medicine. Others, such as UCLA and Massachusetts General Hospital, have specialty training programs in space medicine, but these currently target fully-trained emergency medicine physicians.

My team at the University of Colorado has created a program that integrates human physiology and engineering principles to train medical students to think like engineers.

This program aims to help students understand human health and performance in the spaceflight environment. It approaches these topics from an engineering design and constraints perspective to find solutions to the challenges astronauts will face.

One of our most popular classes is called Mars in Simulated Surface Environments. This class puts students through engineering and medical scenarios in a simulated Mars environment in the Utah desert. Students deal with the challenges of working and providing care while wearing a spacesuit and on a desolate Mars-like landscape.

The stress of the simulations can feel real to the students, and they learn to apply their combined skill sets to care for their fellow crew members.

Educational programs like these and others aim to create cross-trained specialists who understand both patient care and the procedural nature of engineering design and can merge the two, whether for space tourists in orbit or as a pioneer to the surface of another planet.

A new period of spaceflight is here, and these programs are already training experts to make space accessible and safe.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

As more organizations attempt to increase the representation of women in traditionally male-dominated occupations (such as engineering, technology or banking), new research from George Washington University professor Jennifer Merluzzi indicates that simply hiring more women into these fields may not make diversity efforts more effective.

The study, published in American Sociological Review (April 2024), "A Hidden Barrier to Diversification? Performance Recognition Penalties for Incumbent Workers in Male-Dominated Occupations," looked at the impact of increasing gender representation within the traditionally male-dominated occupation of law enforcement.

Merluzzi and her co-author Jirs Meuris, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, examined publicly available data spanning 13 years on nearly 14,000 officers working in the Chicago Police Department (CPD). Their findings revealed a performance recognition penalty for men and women workers from the process of occupational diversification itself.

Since the study used data that spanned multiple years and looked at the officer's individual likelihood of recognition, the findings documented the difference in performance recognition each individual officer received as the number of women in his or her policing unit changed over time.

Women entered the units both as new recruits from the police academy, but also as men and women transferred into and out of different work units across time and thus represented the regular fluctuations of workers typical of an effort to diversify a highly gendered occupation.

"There are hundreds of people in a work unit and what this shows is when the number of women you're working with is higher this month than last month, your likelihood of receiving performance recognition goes down," Merluzzi said. "But you are the same worker doing the same tasks in the same jobthe only thing changing is the number of women working alongside you that month in your police unit."

Merluzzi noted that the percentage of women in the CPD remained fairly consistent throughout the timeframe they studied, but that even small fluctuations in the number of women in one's surrounding work unit negatively impacted that individual worker's chance of performance recognition.

Both men and women employees were impacted by this performance recognition penalty, but since women had a lower baseline likelihood of receiving a performance recognition, the impact of this penalty on women was even more substantial.

The study also found both men and women supervisors were both likely to display this bias, although they found that men supervisors were more likely to penalize men officers than women officers for their association with women peers in their unit, while women supervisors equally penalized men and women officers for this.

Merluzzi said they also considered alternative explanations for their results such as women officers being sorted into some units over others or that the tasks the officers were being asked to do changed as they worked with more women officers in a way that reduced the chance of performance recognition.

For example, they investigated and confirmed that the same pattern of penalties held in units with the greatest and least percentage of women as well as in units performing the most "masculine" (i.e., involving use-of-force) and the most "feminine" (i.e., sexual assault and prostitution cases) tasks during their observation period.

Considering the implications of the study's findings, Merluzzi said it highlights the criticality of policy makers to address the underlying structural problems that lead to bias and inequality, beyond current quota-based initiatives aimed at getting more women into these male-dominated fields.

"There are significant, highly publicized efforts to diversify police forces across the country with a large emphasis on quota-based approaches," Merluzzi said.

"What this study indicates is that unfortunately, simply adding more women without fixing the underlying, sticky structural issues may be ineffective and lead to worse results. Here, a police officer's career outcomes declined as a consequence of his or her association with diversity."

What's interesting about this occupational context, Merluzzi said, is that all police officers go through the identical academy training before starting as officers. This helps rule out that men and women workers were different in some important way from a training standpoint that could help explain the subsequent performance evaluation difference.

"Beyond numeric representation alone, you have to unpack parts of the occupation itself and why some occupations are perceived as being more gendered and the associated status with that gendering. When there is a cultural association of an occupation as inherently 'men's work,' the evaluation within the profession becomes unfairly defined by the person doing the job rather than their job performance or abilities."

The career consequences of this can be serious for employees. In fields like policing where salaries are fairly fixed and promotions are less sought after by the majority of officers, performance recognition can help obtain better work assignments and gain visible accolades and acknowledgement for work that can at times require significant risk to the worker.

Another consequence is that workers can start becoming resistant to diversity because they associate it with being individually penalized.

"If an association with diversity hurts your own performance outcomes, you're not going to embrace diversity efforts or the women entering into your unit," Merluzzi said.

Merluzzi said she would expect to find similar patterns in other traditionally male-dominated fields, which is why organizations seeking to increase diversity in these occupations need to address systemic and cultural biases to make those efforts more effective.

"There's a lot of focus on pipeline initiatives to get more women into these heavily masculine occupations," Merluzzi said.

"Clearly, efforts to encourage women into these fields are incredibly important, but we cannot over-rely on these as the panacea. What our study demonstrates is that the solution is much more complicated than thateven if you solved the issue on an individual level basis, this shows that there are also impacts on an aggregate level that are essential to consider in designing any diversity policy for these occupations."

More information: Jirs Meuris et al, A Hidden Barrier to Diversification? Performance Recognition Penalties for Incumbent Workers in Male-Dominated Occupations, American Sociological Review (2024). DOI: 10.1177/00031224241233696 Journal information: American Sociological Review
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:

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The hydropower dams on the Columbia River flooded villages, disrupted economies and ways of life and continue to harm people indigenous to the Pacific Northwest, according to a first-of-its-kind federal report released Tuesday.

The report by the Department of Interior was produced as part of a major agreement last year between tribes and the United States, in which the federal government promised $1 billion to restore wild salmon, produce clean energy and morebut ultimately stopped short of dam removal, an intensely controversial subject.

The report provides a summary of the historic, ongoing and cumulative harm to eight Columbia Basin tribes caused by 11 dams built in the Columbia and Snake rivers. It marks the first time the federal government has detailed these harms.

From the displacement of people to the silencing of rushing flows and the decline of salmon, the report evaluates how the Columbia River Basin, and the Indigenous people intrinsically tied to it, was dramatically altered in less than a century after the construction of dams. The report calls for federal agencies to recognize tribes' expertise in restoring salmon runs, and to take impactful, immediate next steps.

"To have the recognition of not just historical traumas but also present has been personally impactful," said Yakama Nation Councilmember Jeremy Takala in an interview. "I live over here in Goldendale, like lots of tribal folks living along the river and still dealing with the impacts. ... There are still unfulfilled obligations."

"The big river is what keeps our people here, because of the ties and connection," Takala added.

Today, 13 runs of Columbia Basin salmon and steelhead are listed for protection under the Endangered Species Act. The causes of salmon decline are numerous and include water withdrawals for irrigation, habitat lost to farming and development, overfishing by non-Native settlers, poor hatchery practices, climate change and fish killed by the dams.

Warming and development continue to heighten the risk of salmon extinction, especially in the impounded Snake, which has seen toxic algae blooms and water temperatures exceeding the lethal threshold for salmon.

The Columbia Basin agreement was announced in December between the U.S. government, the states of Washington and Oregon, the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, the Nez Perce Tribeand a coalition of conservation, fishing and renewable energy groups represented by Earthjustice.

It stems from years of mediated negotiations in a decadeslong court battle over dam operations. Tribal nations helped draw up a road map for the future of the region's energy and salmon. Under the agreement, approved by a federal judge this year, tribes will help restore wild fish and lead in the construction of at least 1 to 3 gigawatts of clean-energy production.

A stay of litigation is in place for up to five years and could continue for as long as 10.

The 70-page report comes alongside the creation of a new Columbia River Task Force that will oversee the efforts to fulfill the Biden administration's commitments to restore native fish populations and expand tribally sponsored clean energy.

Nik Blosser, former chief of staff for Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and a former vice president at Portland General Electric, will serve as the task force's first executive director and members will include representatives from federal agencies.

"We are able to identify that there are issues surrounding the Columbia River system of operations and its devastating impacts on the environment, the salmon and what depends on them," Nez Perce Chairman Shannon Wheeler said in an interview.

"There has to be that common understanding so we can look forward with clarity. Reflecting on the past is what needs to happen in order to reaffirm our commitments to one another through the treaty."

For thousands of years, Indigenous people lived in harmony with a flourishing Columbia River ecosystem. Some salmon would grow big enough to feed the orcas, others would come back and feed the people, provide nutrients for the soil, trees, critters and spawn future generations.

Tribes honor these foods at ceremonial feasts. According to Umatilla tradition, the foods are served "in the order in which these foods promised to care for the Indian people."

For many tribes, salmon is of paramount importance, the report states.

Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation consider salmon "sacred relatives." The Nez Perce Tribe describes this relationship as creating a covenant between the Nez Perce people and the salmon. Yakama Nation has described salmon as the Creator's second gift to the people, and in return for the gift the people are to care for the waters that sustain the salmon.

One report estimates that treaty tribes harvested 2.5 million to 5.6 million pounds of salmon annually prior to settlers' arrival.

In signing treaties with the United States in the mid-1800s, the Lower Columbia tribes reserved the right to fish in perpetuity at their usual and accustomed places, in exchange for ceding millions of acres to the federal government.

As the Columbia and Snake rivers were transformed from free flowing to a series of pools serving other purposes, the report details how the annual returns of salmon to the basin dwindled.

The report is centered on 11 dams: the four lower Columbia damsBonneville, The Dalles, John Day and McNary; the two upper Columbia damsChief Joseph and Grand Coulee; the four lower Snake damsIce Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose, and Lower Granite; and Dworshak dam, located on the North Fork Clearwater River just upstream of a tributary to the lower Snake River.

Salmon migrated hundreds of miles to the Shoshone-Paiute people of the Duck Valley Reservation in the southernmost tip of the basin before the Owyhee Dam cut off their historic habitat. The salmon once ran, in the millions, up the Snake and its tributaries.

Wild Snake River salmon runs are 0.12% of the abundance at the time the United States entered into the 1855 treaties with tribes.

"This story was replicated throughout numerous tributaries to the Columbia River," the report states.

June Hogs, the big Chinook that many recall lumbering up and the Columbia after cruising the northeastern Pacific, are now virtually nonexistent. Of 16 once-existing salmonid stocks, four have been extirpatedMid-Columbia River coho, Mid-Columbia River sockeye, Upper Columbia River coho and Snake River coho.

The report explained how early mitigation efforts for the impacts of dams that severed salmon and steelhead from their historic habitat were centered around raising the fish in hatcheries. Despite the Bonneville Power Administration, a federal agency that markets electricity from the dams, spending billions of dollars in ratepayer funds on salmon in the basin, not a single run has recovered.

"The failure to meet abundance goals contributes to salmon harvest deficits. At no point since the beginning of Columbia River Basin development have Tribal fishers been able to harvest more than a fraction of their historic share of salmon returns," the report continues.

Dams, the report describes, silenced sites that for thousands of years were "filled with the noise of rushing water and people communing, praying, fishing, trading, and celebrating."

Celilo Falls was "a place of wonder. A symphony of nature, the river was in constant motion," the report stated, quoting from book "The Si'lailo Way." "Native men climbed onto the wood scaffolds and reached into the river with long poles that had nets on the ends. Using these dip nets, they caught migrating salmon."

The reservoir behind Grand Coulee Dam, known today as Lake Roosevelt, reaches 151 miles upstream, inundating well over 100 miles of salmon habitat on the mainstem, and dozens more on the Spokane, Kettle and San Poil rivers, and many small tributaries, along with Kettle Falls itself.

The inundation of Kettle Falls spurred the Ceremony of Tears, a gathering of at least 1,000 people, with representatives of multiple tribes, to mourn the impending loss of the falls in 1940. The construction of Grand Coulee also forced the relocation of many tribal homes and burial sites as it flooded portions of the Colville and Spokane reservationslands that those tribes just decades before had reserved from their vast ancestral territories.

"And yet, Celilo and Kettle Falls are only the largest and busiest fishing sites flooded by the federal dams," the report states, acknowledging further harm.

"The flourishing of Basin Tribes is inextricably linked to the health of the Columbia River and its tributaries. The holistic nature of the impacts on the Tribes documented in this report makes clear that the government must aim for more than compliance with the ESA and other environmental statutes," the report states. "The government should support actions that achieve healthy and abundant populations of salmon, other fish, and wildlife throughout the Basin."

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in a comprehensive report on the river released in September 2022, stated that dam removal on the Lower Snake will be necessary along with other actions to boost salmon abundance.

"The Yakama Nation has always spoke for the water, fish, and cultural resources that cannot speak-up for themselves. I am hopeful that through this report, federal entities will listen to Yakama People," said Gerald Lewis, Yakama Tribal Council chairman, in a statement.

"We will know that we have been heard when the hydro-system agencies start prioritizing their commitments to salmon recovery and our tribal fishers."

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